A SURVEY OF LONDON. Containing the Original, Antiquity, Increase, Modern estate, and description of that City, written in the year 1598. by john Stow Citizen of London. Also an Apology (or defence) against the opinion of some men, concerning that City, the greatness thereof. With an Appendix, containing in Latin, Libellum de situ & nobilitate Londini: Written by William Fitzstephen, in the reign of Henry the second. Imprinted by john Wolf, Printer to the honourable City of London: And are to be sold at his shop within the Pope's head Alley in Lombard street. 1598. TO THE RIGHT Honourable, the Lord Mayor of the City of London, to the commonalty, and Citizens of the same, john Stow Citizen, wisheth long health and felicity. SInce the first publishing of the perambulation of Kent, by that learned Gentleman M. William Lambert Esquire, I have heard of sundry other able persons to have (according to the desire of that author) assayed to do somewhat for the particular Shires and Connties, where they were borne, or dwelled, of which none that I know (saving M. Norden, for the Counties of Middlesex, & Hertford) have vouchsafed their labours to the common good in that behalf. And therefore concurring with the first, in the same desire to have drawn together such special descriptions of each place, as might not only make up an whole body of the English chronography amongst ourselves: but also might give occasion, and courage to M. Camdin to increase and beautify his singular work of the whole, to the view of the learned that be abroad. I have attempted the discovery of London, my native soil and Country, at the desire and persuasion of some my good friends, aswell because I have seen sundry antiquities myself touching that place, as also for that through search of Records to other purposes, divers written helps are come to my hands, which few others have fortuned to meet withal, it is a service that most agreeth with my professed traveles. It is a duty, that I willingly owe to my native mother & Country. And an office that of right I hold myself bound in love to bestow upon the politic body and members of the same: what London hath been of ancient time, men may here see, as what it is now every man doth behold: I know that the argument, being of the chief and principal City of the land, required the pen of some excellent Artisen, but fearing that none would attempt, and finish it, as few have assayed any, I chose rather (amongst other my Labours) to handle it after my plain manner, then to leave it unperformed. Touching the Dedication, I am not doubtful where to seek my patron, since you be a politic estate of the City, as the walls & buildings be the material parts of the same. To you therefore, do I address this my whole labour, as well that by your authority I may be protected, as warranted by your own skill and understanding of that which I have written, I confess that I lacked my desire to the accomplishment of some special parts; but I trust hereafter that shallbe supplied, and I profess (if more touching this work come unto me) to afford it, in all duty. In the mean time, I recommend this to your view, my labours to your consideration, and myself to your service, (as I have professed during life) in this or any other. A Table of the Chapters contained in this Book. OF the antiquity of London. fol. 1. The wall about the City of London, fol. 6. Of the ancient & present rivers, Brooks, Boornes, Pools, Wells, and Conduits of fresh water, serving the City, as also the ditch compassing the wall of the same. fol. 10 Of the bridges of this City fol. 19 Gates in the wall of this City. fol. 25 Of Towers and Castles. fol. 37. Of Schools and other houses of learning. fol. 53. Houses of students of the Common Law. fol. 58. Of Orders and Customs of the citizens. fol. 60. Sports and pastimes of old time used in this city. fol. 67. Watches in London. 74. Honour of citizens & worthiness of men in the same. fol. 78 The City of London divided into parts. fol. 82. Portsoken Warde. fol. 85. Towerstreet Warde. fol. 94. Ealdgate Warde. fol. 102. Limestreete Warde. fol. 114. Bishopsgate Warde, fol. 126. Brodestreet Warde. fol. 136. Cornhill Warde. fol. 146 Langborne ward and Fenny about. fol. 156. Billingsgate ward. fol. 165. Bridge ward within. fol. 167. Candlewike street ward. fol. 170 Walbrooke ward. fol. 176 Downegate ward. fol. 182 Vintry ward. 189 Cordwainer street ward. 195 Cheap ward. 207 Colemanstreete ward. 220 Bassinges hall ward. 225 Cripplegate ward. 230 Aldersgate ward. 242 Faringdon ward infra, or within. 248 Breadstreet ward. 279 Queen Heath ward. 286 Castle Baynarde ward 295 The ward of Faringdon, extra or without. 303 Bridge ward without (the 26. in number) consisting of the Borough of Southwark in the county of Surrey. 329. The Suburbs without the walls of the city, briefly touched, as also without the Liberties more at large described. 346 Liberties of the Duchy of Lancaster without Temple Bar. 365 The City of Westminster, with the Antiquities, Monuments, Bounds and Liberties thereof. 370 Spiritual, or ecclesiastical government. 395 Parish Churches in the City of London, the Borough of Southwark, the suburbs, and City of Westminster. 407 Hospitals in this City, and Suburbs. 412. Of leprous people and Lazar houses. 414. Temporal government of this City. 415. An Apology or defence against the opinions of etc. 467. Singularities in the same expressed. 470. An Appendix, containing an ancient Author, who wrote in the reign of Henry the second, his book entitled, Libellum de situ & nobilitate Londini, never before imprinted. A Survey of London, containing the original, antiquity, increase, modern estate, and description of that City. AS Rome the chief City of the world to glorify itself, drew her original from the Gods, Goddesses, and demi Gods, by the Trojan progeny. So this famous City of London for greater glory, and in emulation of Rome, deriveth itself from the very same original. For (as jeffery of Monmoth, Geoffrey Mommoth. the Welsh Historian reporteth Brute descended from the demi god Aeneas, the son of Venus, daughter of jupiter, about the year of the world 2855. the year before Christ's nativity, 1108. builded a City near unto a river now called Thames, and named it Troynovant. or Trenovant. Trinovantum hath the written Copies. King Lud afterward not only repaired this City, but also added fair buildings, Towers, and walls, and called it after his own name Caire-Lud Caire-Lud, the City of Lud, but Luds town is a Saxon word. or Luds town, and the strong gate which he builded in the west part of the City, he likewise for his own honour named it Ludgate. This Lud had issue two sons, Androgeus, and Themantius, who being not of age to govern at the death of their Father: their Uncle Cassibilan, took upon him the crown, about the eight year of whose reign, julius Cesar arrived in this land with a great power of Romans to conquer it, the manner of which conquest I will summarily set down out of his own Commentaries, which are of far better credit, than the relations of Geoffrey Monmouth. Caesar's Commentaries. liber. 5. The chief government of the Britons, and ordering of the wars, was then by common advice committed to Cassibilan, whose Signiory was separated from the Cities towards the sea coast, by the river called Thames, about fourscore miles from the sea, this Cassibilan in times past, had made continual war upon the Cities adjoining, but the Britons being moved with the Romans' invasion, had resolved in that necessity to make him their Sovereign and General of the wars (which continued hot between the Romans and them) but in the mean while, the Trinobantes Trinobants Citizens of London which was then the strongest City well near of all those countries (and out of which City a young gentleman called Mandubrace, upon confidence of Celars help, came unto him into the main land of Gallia now called France, and thereby escaped death, which he should have suffered at cassibilan's hand,) sent their Ambassadors to Cesar, promising to yield unto him, and to do what he should command them, instantly desiring him, to protect Mandubrace from the furious tyranny of Cassibilan, and to sand him into their City, with authority to take the government thereof upon him. Cesar accepted the offer, and appointed them to give unto him 40. Hostages, and withal to find him grain for his army, and so sent he Mandubrace Mandubrace and the Trinobants yield to Cesar, and he defended them. unto them. When others saw that Cesar had not only defended the Trinobantes against Cassibilan, but had also saved them harmless from the pillage of his own soldiers, than did the Conimagues, Segontians, Ancalites, Bibrokes, and Cassians, likewise submit themselves unto him, and by them he learned that not far from thence was cassibilan's town, cassibilan's town west from London for Cesar saith 80. miles from the sea, Cities of the Britaines were cumbersome woods fortified. fortified with woods, and marish ground, into the which he had gathered a great number both of men and cattle. For the Britons call that a town (saith Cesar) when they have fortified a combarsom wood with a ditch and rampire, and thither they resort to abide the approach of their enemies, to this place therefore marched Cesar, with his Legions, he found it excellently fortified both of nature, and by man's advice: nevertheless he resolved to assault it in two several places at once, whereupon the Britons being not able to endure the force of the Romans', fled out at an other part, and left the town unto him: a great number of cattle he found there, and many of the Britons he slew, and other he took in the chase. Whilst these things were a doing in these quarters, Cassibilan sent messengers into Kent, which lieth upon the sea, in which there reigned then 4. particular kings, named Cingetorix, Caruil, Taximagul, and Segonax, whom he commanded to raise all their forces, and suddenly to set upon, and assault the Romans', in their trenches, by the sea side: the which when the Romans' perceived, they sallied out upon them, slew a great sort of them, and taking Cingetorix their noble Captain prisoner, retired themselves to their Camp in good safety. When Cassibilan hard of this, and had formerly taken many other losses, and found his country sore wasted, and himself left almost alone by the defection of the other Cities, he sent Ambassadors by Connius of Arras, to Cesar, to entreat with him, concerning his own submission, the which Cesar did accept, and taking Hostages, assessed the Realm of Britain, Britain sessed to pay a yearly tribute to the Romans'. to a yearly tribute, to be paid to the people of Rome, giving strait charge to Cassibilan, that he should not seek any revenge upon Mandubrace or the Trinobantes, and so withdrew his army to the sea again. Thus far out of Caesar's Commentaries concerning this History, which happened in the year before Christ's nativity 54. in all which process there is for this purpose to be noted, that Cesar nameth the City of Trinobantes, which hath a resemblance with Troy nova or Trinobantum, which hath no greater difference in the Orthography, then changing b. into v. and yet maketh an error which I will not argue, only this I will note that divers learned men do not think civitas Trinobantum Trinobant, new London. to be well and truly translated, the City of the Trinobantes: but it should rather be the state, comonalty, or Signiory, of the Trinobantes: for that Cesar in his Commentaries useth the word civitas, only for a people living under one, and the self same Prince and law but certain it is that the Cities of the Britain's, Cities of the Britan's not artificially builded with houses nor walled. with stone were in those days neither artificially builded with houses, nor strongly walled with stone, but were only thick and combarsom woods plashed within and trenched about: and the like in effect do other the Roman and Greek authors directly affirm, as Strabo Pomponius Mela, and Dion Strabo, Pomponius. Mela, Tacitus. Dion. a Senator of Rome, which flourished in the several reigns of the Roman Emperors, Tiberius Claudius, Domitian, and Severus, to wit that before the arrival of the Romans, the Britons had no towns but called that a town which had a thick entangled wood, defended as I said with a ditch and bank, the like whereof the Irishmen our next neighbours do at this day call Paces, but after that these hither parts of Britain were reduced into the form of a Province by the Romans', who sowed the seeds of ciuilitte over all Europe, this City whatsoever it was before, began to be renowned, and of fame. For Tacitus, who first of all authors nameth it Londinum, saith that in the 62. after Christ it was albeit, no Colony of the Romans', yet most famous London most famus for Merchants and intercourse. for the great multitude of Merchants, provision, and intercourse. At which time in that notable revolt of the Britons from Nero, in which 70000. Romans' & their leaguer fellows were slain, this City with Verulam near S. Albon, and Maldon, than all famous: were ransacked and spoiled. For Suetonius Paulinus then Lieftennant for the Romans' in this Isle, abandoned it: as not then forseyied, and left it to the spoil. Shortly after, julius Agricola, the Roman Liefetennant, in the time of Domitian, was the first that by adhorting the Britain's, The Britons had no houses, but cottages. publicly, and helping them privately, won them to build houses for themselves, temples for the Gods, and courts for justice, to bring up the noblemen's children in good letters and humanity, and to apparel themselves Roman like, whereas before (for the most part) they went naked, painting their bodies etc. as all the Roman writers have observed. The Britons went naked their bodies painted. True it is I confess, that afterward many Cities and Towns in Britain under the government of the Romans', were walled with stone, & baked bricks, or tiles, as Richborrow, or Ryptacester, in the Isle of Thanet, till the channel altered his course, besides Sandwich, in Kent, Verulamium Richborow in Kent Verulamium. Cilcester Roxcester Kenchester. Keyland. Of the wall, about London. besides S. Alban's, in Hartfordshire, Cilcester, in Hampshire, Roxcester in Shrop shire, Kenchester in Herefordshire, three miles from Hereford town, Ribchester, 7. miles above Preston, on the water of Rible, Aldeburge a mile from Borrowbridge, or Wathelingstreet, on Vre River and others, & no doubt but this our City of London, was also walled with stone, in the time of the Roman government here, but yet very lately, for it seemeth not to have been walled in the year of our Lord 296. because in that year when Alectus the Tyrant was slain in the field, the Frankes easily entered London, and had sacked the same, had not God of his great favour, at the very instant brought along the river of Thames, certain bands of Roman Soldiers, who slew those Frankes in every street of the City. In few years after, as Simeon of Durham, Simeon of Durham. an ancient writer reporteth, Helen the mother of Constantine the great, was the first that inwalled it about the year of Christ 306. howsoever those walls of stone might be builded by Helen, yet the Britōs, (I know) had no skill of building with stone, as it may appear by that, which followeth about the year after Christ, 399, when Arcadius & Honorius the sons of Theodosius Magnus, governed the Empire, the one in the East, the other in the West, for Honorius having received Britain, the City of Rome was invaded and destroyed, by the Gathes after which time the Romans' left The Romans' left to govern Britain. to rule in Britain, as being, employed in defence of their Territories nearer home, whereupon the Britain's not able to defend themselves against the invasions of their enemies, were many years together under the oppression of two most cruel nations, the Scots and Pictes, The Scots and Picts invade this land. and at the length were forced to sand their Ambassadors with letters and lamentable supplications, to come, requiring aid and secure from thence, upon promise of their continual fealty, so that the Romans' would rescue them out of the hands of their enemies. Hereupon the Romans' sent unto them a Legion of armed Soldiers, which coming into this Island, and encountering with the enemies, overthrew a great number of them, and drove the rest out of the frontiers of the country, and so setting the Britaines at liberty, counseled them to make a wall, extending all along between the two seas, which might be of force to keep out their evil neighbours, and then returned home with great triumph: But the Britain's Britain's unskilful of building with stone wanting Masons builded that wall not of stone as they were advised, but made it of turf, and that so slender, that it served little or nothing at all for their defence: and the enemy perceiving that the Roman Legion was returned home, forthwith arrived, out of their boats, invaded the borders, overcame the country, and as it were, bore down all that was before them. Whereupon Ambassadors were eftsoons dispatched to Rome, lamentably beseeching that they would not suffer their miserable country to be utterly destroyed: then again an other Legion was sent, which coming upon a sudden, made a great slaughter of the enemy, and chased him home, even unto his own country. These Romans' at their departure, told the Britain's plainly, that it was not for their ease or leisure to take upon them any more such long and laborious journeys for their defence, and therefore bad them practise the use of armour and weapons, and learn to withstand their enemies, whom nothing else did make so strong as their faint heart, and cowardice, and for so much as they thought that it would be no small help and encouragement unto their Tributary friends whom they were now forced to forsake, Witichindus. they builded for them a wall of hard stone from the west sea to the east sea, right between those two Cities, which were there made to keep out the enemies, in the self same place where Severus before had cast his Trench. Wal of stone builded by the Romans. bewtixt the Britan's, and Scots. The Britain's also putting to their helping hands as labourers. This wall they builded 8. foot thick in breadth, and 12. foot in height, right as it were by a line, from east to west, as the ruins thereof remaining in many places till this day, do make to appear. Which work thus perfected, they give the people strait charge to look well to themselves, they teach them to handle their weapons, and they instruct them in warlike feats. And jest by the sea side southwards, where their ships lay at harbour, the enemy should come on land, they made up sundry Bulwarks each some what distant from the other, and so bid them farewell as minding no more to return. This happened in the days of the Emperor Theodosius the younger almost 500 years after the first arrival of the Romans' here, about the year after Christ's incarnation, 434. The Britaines after this, continuing a linger & doubtful war with the Scots and Pictes, made choice of Vortiger, to be their king and leader, which man (as saith Malmesbery, Malmsbery. Bede. ) was neither valorous of courage, nor wise of counsel, but wholly given over to the unlawful lusts of his flesh: the people likewise in short time, being grown to some quietness gave themselves to gluttony, The Britain's given to gluttony, drunkenness, pride and contention. and drunkenness, pride, contention, envy, and such other vices, casting from them the yoke of Christ. In the mean season a bitter plague fell among them, consuming in short time such a multitude, that the quick were not sufficient to bury the dead, and yet the remnant remained so hardened in sin, that neither the death of their friends nor fear of their own danger, could cure the mortality of their souls, whereupon a greater stroke of vengeance ensued upon the whole sinful nation. The Britain's plagued for their sinful life. For being now again infested with their old neighbours the Scots, and Pictes, they consult with their king Vortiger, and sand for the Saxons, who shortly after arrived here in Britain, where saith Bede, Witichendus● Bede. they were received as friends: but as it proved they minded to destroy the country as enemies for after that they had driven out the Scots and Pictes, they also drove the Britain's some over the seas, and some into the waste mountains of Wales and Cornewell, and divided the country into divers kingdoms amongst themselves. The Saxons sent for to defend the Britain's, but they drove them into the mountains. These Saxons were likewise ignorant of the Architecture or building with stone, Saxons unskilful of building with stone. until the year of Christ 680. for then it is affirmed that Bennet Abbote of Wirall, Master to the reverend Bede, first brought Masons and Workmen in stone into this Island amongst the Saxons, Benet a monk brought masons into this land amongst the Saxons. (he I say) brought hither Artificers of stone houses, Painters and glaziers, arts before that time unto the Saxons unknown, who before that time used but wooden buildings. Thus much be said for walling, not only in respect of this City, but generally also of the first, within the Realm. Now to return to our Trinovant, Trinovamt since called London. (as Cesar hath it) the same is since by Tacitus, Ptolomeus, and Antoninus called Londinium, Longidinum, of Amiamus, Lundinum, and Augusta who calleth it an ancient City of our Britain's Lundayne, of the old Saxons, Lundonceaster, Londonbeig, of strangers, Londra and Londres, of the inhabitants, London, whereof you may read a more large and learned discourse, and how it took the name in that work of my loving friend M. Camden Camden. the city of London destroyed by the Danes, and again repaired. now Clarenciaulx which is called Britania. This City of London having been destroyed and brent by the Danes and other Pagan enemies about the year of Christ, 839. was by Alfred king of the west Saxons, in the year 886 repaired and honourably restored, and made again habitable. Who also committed the custody thereof unto his son in law, Ethelrod Earl of Merci●, unto whom before he had given his daughter Ethelfled. And that this City was strongly walled, may appear by divers accidents, whereof I have read some, namely William of Malsmebery, W. Malmesbery. Assur. Marianus Florentius, hath that about the year of Christ, 994. the Londoners, shut up their gates and defended their king Ethelrod, within their walls against the Danes, in the year 1016. Edmond ironside reigning over the west Saxons Canute the Dane bringing his navy into the west part of the bridge, cast a Trench about the City of London, and then attempted to have won it by assault, but the Citizens repulsed him and drove him from their walls. Also in the year 1052. Earl Godwin with his navy sailed up by the south end of the bridge, and so assailed the walls of this City, & william Fitzstephen W. Fitzstephen The City of London walled round about by the River of Thames. Walls of London repaired writing in the reign of king Henry the second, of the walls of this City, hath these words. The wall is high and great, well towered on the Northside with due distances between the towers. On the southside also the City was walled and towered, but the fishful river of Thames with his ebbing, and flowing hath long since subverted them. This may suffice for proof of a wall, and form thereof, about this City, and the same to have been of great antiquity, as any other within this Realm, and now touching the maintenance & repairing the said walls, I find that in the year 1215, the 16. of King john, the Barons entering the City by Ealdgate, Roger of Windouer. Matthew Paris, Randulph Cocshall. first took assurance of the Citizens, and then they broke into the houses of the jews, and searched their coffers, and after with great diligence repaired the walls, and the gates of the City of London with stone, taken from the jews broken houses. In the year 1257. Henry the 3. caused the walls of the City of London, which were sore decayed and destitute of Towers, to be repaired in more seemly wise then before, at the common charges of the City. Also in the year 1282. Matthew Paris King Edward the first granted to H. Walleis Maior, and the Citizens of London, the favour, to take toward the making of the wall, and enclosure of the City, certain customs, as appeareth by his grant. This wall was then to be made from Ludgate to Fleet bridge, and along by the water of Fleet, unto the river of Thames. Moreover in the year 1310. Edward the 2. commanded the Citizens to make up the wall already begun, and the Tower, at the end of the same wall, within the water of Thames near unto the black Friars etc. It was also granted by king Richard the socond in the 10. of his reign that a Toll should be taken of wares, sold by land and by water for 10. years, towards the repairing of the walls and cleansing of the ditch about London. In the 17. of Edward the 4. Ralph joceline, Mayor, caused part of the wall about the City of London, Patent. to be rapayred, to wit, betwixt Aldgate and Aldersgate he also caused the Morefielde to be searched for clay, and willed brick to be made, and brent there, he likewise caused chalk to be brought out of Kent and to be brent into lime in the same Morefield, for more furtherance of the work. Than the Skinners, to begin in the East, made that part of the wall, betwixt Algate and Buries mark towards Bishopsgate, as may appear by their arms in three places fixed there, the Mayor with his company of the Drapers made all that part, betwixt Bishopsgate & All-hallows Church in the same, and from All-hallows towards the Postern. A great part of the same wall called Moregate was repaired by the executors of Sir john Crosby, late Alderman, as may appear by his Arms, standing in two places there. Other Companies repaired the rest of the wall to the Postern of Cripplegate. The Goldsmiths repaired from Cripplegate, towards Aldersgate, & there the work ceased. The circuit of the wall Circuit of the Wall from the east to the west. of London on the lands side, to wit from the tower of London in the east, unto Aldgate, is 82. perches: from Aldgate to Bishopsgate, 86. perches: from Bishopsgate in the north to the Postern of Cripplegate 162 perches, from Cripplegate to Ealdersgate 75. perches, from Eldrichgate to Newgate, 66. perches, from Newgate in the west to Ludgate, 42. perches, in all 513. perches of assize. From Ludgate again to the Fleet dike, west, about 60. perches: from Fleet bridge south to the river of Thames, about 70. perches, and so the total of these perches amounteth to 643. every perch, consisting of 5. yards and a half, which do yield 3536. yards and a half, containing 10608 foot, which make up two english miles and more by 608. foot. Of the Ancient and Present Rivers, Brooks, Boorns, Pools, wells, and Conduits of fresh water, serving the City, as also of the ditch, compassing the wall of the same. Anciently until the Conqueror's time, and 200. years after, the City of London was watered besides the famous River of Thames, on the South part, with the river of the wells, as it was then called on the west, with a water called walbrooke, running through the midst of the City into the river of Thames serving the heart thereof. And with a fourth water or Boorne, which ran within the City, through Langboorne ward, watering that part in the East. In the west Suburbs was also an other great water, called Oldborne, which had his fall into the River of wells: then was there 3. principal Fountains, or wells in the other Suburbs, to wit Holly well, Clement's well, and Clerks well. Near unto this last named fountain, were divers other wells, to wit Skinners well, Fags well, Tede well, Leders well, and Radwell. In west Smithfield there was a Pool, in records called Horsepoole, And one other Pool near unto the parish Church of S. Giles without Cripplegate. Besides all which they had in every street and lane of the City divers fair wells, and fresh springs: and after this manner was this City then served, with sweet & fresh waters, which being since decayed, other means have been sought to supply the want, as shall be showed, but first of the aforenamed Rivers and other waters, is to be said, as followeth. Thames River of Thames. the most famous River of this Island, beginneth a little above a village called winchcomb in Oxfordshire, and still increasing passeth first by the university of Oxford, and so with a marvelous quiet course to London, and thence breaketh into the French Ocean by main tides, which twice in 24. hours space doth ebb and flow, more than 60. miles in length, to the great commodity of travelers, by the which all kind of Merchandise be easily conveyed to London, the principal store house, and staple of all Commodities within this Realm: so that omitting to sp●ake of great ships, and other vessels of burden, there pertaineth to the Cities of London, westminster and Burrow of Southwark above the number as is supposed of 2000 wherries and other small boats, whereby 3000. poor men at the lest be set on work and maintained. That the River of the wells whirries on the Thames. River of wells in the west part of the City, was of old time so called: it may be proved thus, william the Conqueror in his Charter, to the College of S. Martin, le Grand in London, hath these words: I do give and grant to the same church all the land and the Moor, without the Postern, which is called Cripplegate, on either part of the Postern, that is to say, from the North corner of the wall, as the river of the wells, there near running departeth the same Moore from the wall, unto the running water which entereth the City, this water hath been since that time called Turnemill Brooke: yet then called the river of the Wells, which name of river continued: and it was so called in the reign of Edward the first: as shallbe showed, with also the decay of the said river, Decay of the River of the Wels. in a fair book of Parliament records, parliament record. now lately restored to the Tower, it appeareth that a parliament being holden at Carlisle in the year 1307, the 35. of Edward the first, Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln, complained that whereas in times past the course of water, running at London, under Oldeborne bridge, and Fleet bridge into the Thames, had been of such breadth and depth, that 10. or 12. Ships, Navies, at once with merchandises, were wont to come to the foresaid bridge of Fleet, and some of them to Oldborne bridge: River of wells bare ships. now the same course by filth of the Tanners and such others, was sore decayed: also by raising of wharses, but specially by a diversion of the water made by them of the new Temple, for their mills standing without Baynard's Castle, in the first year of King john, patent record Mils by Baynard's castle made in the first of King john. and divers other impediments, so as the said ships could not enter as they were wont, and as they aught, wherefore he desired that the Mayor of London with the Sheriffs, and other discrete Aldermen, might be appointed to view the course of the said water, and that by the oaths of good men, all the aforesaid hindrances might be removed, and it to be made as it was wont of old: whereupon Roger le Brabason, the Constable of the Tower, with the Mayor and Sheriffs were assigned to take with them honest and discrete men, and to make diligent search & inquiry, how the said river was in ●lde time, and that they leave nothing that may hurt or stop it, but keep it in the same estate, that it was wont to be: so far the record. Whereupon it followed that the said river, River socalled in the year 1307. was at that time cleansed, these mills removed, and other things done for the preservation of the course thereof, notwithstanding never brought to the old depth, and breadth, whereupon the name of river ceased, and it was since called a Brook, namely Turnmil or Tremill Brooke, Turnemill brook. for that divers mills were erected upon it, as appeareth by a fair Register book, containing the foundation of the Priory at Clarken well, and donation of the lands, thereunto belonging, as also by divers other records. This brook hath been divers times since cleansed, namely and last of all to any effect. In the year 1502. the 17. of Henry the 7. the whole course of Fleet dike, then so called was scoured (I say) down to the Thames, so that boats with fish and fuel were rowed to Fleet bridge and to Oldborne bridge, as they of old time had been accustomed, which was a great commodity to all the inhabitants in that part of the City. In the year 1589. was granted a fifteen, by a common Council of the City, for the cleansing of this Brook or dike and the money amounting to a thousand marks was collected, Fleet dike promised to be clensed● the money collected, but the Citizen's dece●ued. and it was undertaken that by drawing divers springs about Hampstid heath, into one head and course, both the City should be served of fresh water, in all places of want, and also that by such a follower, as men call it the channel of this brook should be scoured into the river of Thames, but much money being therein spent, she effect failed, so that the brooks by means of continual incrochments upon the banks gyttying over the water, and casting of soilage into the stream, is now become worse cloyed and choken then ever it was before. The running water so called A running water called Walbrooke. by William the Conqueror in his said Charter, which entereth the City etc. before there was any ditch between Bishopsgate and the late made Postern called Moregate, entered the wall and was truly of the wall called Walbrooke not of Gualo as some have far fetched: it ran through the City with divers windings from the North towards the South into the river of Thames, and had over the same divers Bridges, along the Streets and Lanes, through which it passed. I have read in an old writing book entitled the customs liber customs of London, that the Prior of the Holy Trinity within Aldgate aught to make over Walbrooke in the ward of B●edstreete, against the stone wall of the City, uz. the same Bridge that is next the Church of All Saints, at the wall. Also that the Prior of the new Hospital, S. Marry Spittle, without Bishopsgate aught to make the middle part of one other Bridge next to the said Bridge towards the North: And that in the 28. year of Edward the first, it was by inquisition found before the Mayor of London that the parish of S. Stephen upon walbrooke, aught of right to cover the course of the said Brook, and therefore the Shieriffes were commanded to distrain the said Parishioners so to do in the year 1300. the keepers of those Bridges at that time were William jordan, and john de Baver. This watercourse having divers Bridges, was afterwards v●ulted over with Brick, and paved level with the streets and lanes, where through it passed, and since that also houses have been builded thereon, so that the course of Walbrooke Walbrooke vaulted and paved over. is now hidden under ground, and thereby hardly known. Langborne water so called of the length thereof, was a great stream of water breaking out of the ground, in Fan Church street, which ran down with a swift course, west, through that street, thwart Grastreet and down Lombardestreete, to the west end of S. Marry Wolnothes Church, and then turning the course South down Shareborne lane, Sharebourne lane. so termed of sharing or dividing, it broke into divers rills or rillets to the River of Thames, of this Bourne that ward took the name, and is till this day called Langborne ward, Langbourne ward. this Bourne also is long since stopped up at the head and the rest of the course filled up and paved over, so that no sign thereof remaineth more than the names aforesaid, Oldeborne or Hilborne was the like water, breaking out about the place where now the bars do stand, and it ran down the whole street till Oldebourne bridge, and into the River of the Wells, or Turnemil Brook: this Bourn was likewise long since stopped up at the head, & in other places where the same hath broken out, but yet till this day, the said street is there still called high Ouldebourn hill, and both the sides thereof together with all the grounds adjoining that lie betwixt it, and the river of Thames remain full of springs, so that water is there found at hand, and hard to be stopped in every house. There are (saith Fitzstephen Fitzstephen. Holywell ) near London, on the North side special wells, in the Suburbs: sweet, wholesome, and clear, amongst which Holywel, Clerks well, & Clementes well, are most famous and frequented by Scholars, and youths of the City in summer evenings, when they walk forth to take the air. The first, to wit, Holywel is much decayed and marred with filthiness, purposely laid there, for the heighthening of the ground, for garden plots: the fountain called S. Clement's well, Clement's well. North from the Parish church of S. Clement's, and near unto an Inn of Chancery, called Clement's Inn, is thereof yet fair kerbed square with hard stone, and is always kept clean for common use: it is always full, and never wanteth water, the third is called Clarks well, Clerks well or Clarken well, and is also kerbed about square with stone. Not far from the west end of this Clerks well Church without the stone wall that encloseth the Church, the other smaller wells that stood near unto Clerks well, to wit Skinners well, Skinner's well Fagges well, Todwell, Loders well, and Redwell, are all decayed and so filled up. that their places are now hardly discerned: somewhat North from Holywell is one other well kerbed square with stone, and is called Dame Annis the clear, Dame Annis the clear. and not far from it but somewhat west, is also one other clear water called Perilous Pond, Perilous pond because divers youths by swimming therein have been drowned, and thus much be said for fountains and wells. Horsepoole Horsepoole. in West Smithfielde was sometime a great water, and because the inhabitants in that part of the City did there water their Horses, the same was in old records called Horsepoole, it is now much decayed, the springs being stopped up and the land water falling into the small bottom, remaining enclosed with Brick, is but fowl: and is called Smithfielde Pond. The Pool pool without Cripplegate. by S. Giles Churchyard was a large water in the year 1244. for it is read that Anne of Lodbury was drowned therein, this Pool is now for the most part stopped up, but the spring is preserved, and it was coopped about with stone by the Executors of Richard Whittington. The said river of the Wells, the running water of Walbrooke, the Bournes aforenamed, and other the fresh waters that were in and about this City, being in process of time by incrochment for buildings and otherwise utterly decayed, and the number of Citizens mightily increased, they were forced to seek sweet waters abroad, whereof some at the request of king Henry the third, in the 21. year of his reign, were for the profit of the City, and good of the whole Realm thither repairing, granted to the Citizens and their Successors by one Gilbert Sanford, Patent 1236. with liberty to convey water from the town of Teiborne, by Pipes of lead into their City, & the first Cistern of lead castellated with stone in the City of London was called the great Conduit in west Cheap, and was begun to be builded in the year 1285. Henry Wales being then Mayor: the water course from Paddington to james head hath 510. rods, from james head on the hill to the Mewsgate, 102. rods, from the Mewsgate to the cross in Cheap 484. rods. The Ton upon Cornhill was Cisterned in the year 1401. john Chadworth then being Mayor. Bosses of water, at Belins-gate, by Paul's wharf, and by S. Giles Church without Cripplegate made about the year 1423. Water conveyed to the gaols of Newgate and Ludgate, 1432. Water procured to the Standard in west Cheap about the year 1431. king Henry the sixth in the year 1442. granted to john Hatharley, Maior licence to take up 200. fodar of Lead for the building of Conduits of a common Garnery and of a new Cross in west Cheap, for honour of the City. The Conduit in Aldermanburic and the Standard in Fleet street were made and finished by the executors of Sir William Eastfielde in the year 1471. a Sesterne was added to the standard in Fletestreete, and a Sesterne was made at Fleet bridge, and one other without Cripplegate in the year 1478. Conduit in Grastreete in the year. 1491. Conduit of Oldbourne Cross about 1498. again new made by William Lamb, 1577. Little Conduit by the Stocks market about. 1500. Conduit at Bishopsgate about 1513. Conduit at London wall about 1528. Conduit at Aldgate without, about, 1535. Conduit in Lothbury, and in Colemanstreete. 1546. Conduit of Thames water, at Dowgate. 1568, Thames water conveyed into men's houses Thames water conveyed into men's houses, in the east part of the City. by pipes of lead from a most artificial forcier standing near unto London bridge and made by Peter Moris Dutch man in the year 1582. for service of the City, on the East part thereof. Conduits Conduits in old fish-street. of Thames water by the parish churches of S. Marie Magdalen, and S. Nicholas Cold Abbey near unto old Fishstrete, in the year 1583. One other new Forcier was made near to Broken wharf, to convey Thames water Thames water conveyed into the west part of the City. into men's houses of west Cheap, about Paul's, Fleetstreet etc. by an English Gentleman, named Bevis Bulman, in the year 1594. Thus much for waters, serving this City, first by Rivers, Brooks, Boornes, Fountains, Pools, etc. And since by Conduits partly made by good and charitable Citizens, and otherwise by charges of the comm●naltie, as shallbe showed in description of Wards wherein they be placed. And now some Benefactors to these Conduits shallbe remembered. In the year 1236. certain Merchants strangers, Benefactors towards the water condu●es. of cities beyond the Seas, to wit Amiens, Corby, and Nele for privileges which they enjoyed in this City, gave 100 ●. towards the charges of conveying water from the town of Teyborne. Robert Large then Mayor 1439. gave to the new water Conduits then in hand, forty Marks, and toward the vaulting over of Walbrooke 200 marks. Sir william Eastfielde conveyed water from Teyborne and from Highbery. william Combs Sheriff 1441. gave to the work of the Conduits. x. ●. Richard Rawson one of the Sheriffs 1476. gave, xx ●. Robert Revel one of the sheriffs 1490. gave, x. ●. john Matthew Maior 1490. gave xx. ●. William Buck Taylor in the year, 1494. gave 100 marks towards repairing of Conduits. Dame Thomason widow, late wise to john Percivall Taylor, Maior in the year 1498. gave towards the Conduit in Oldbourne, xx. marks. Richard Shore one of the sheriffs 1505. gave to the Conduit in Oldborne. x ●. The Lady Ascue widow to Sir Christopher Ascue, 1543. gave towards the Conduits, C. ●. David Wodrens, Sheriff, 1554. gave towards the Conduit at Bishopsgate xx. ●. Edward jackman one of the sheriffs 1564. gave toward the Conduits. C. ●. Barnarde Randolfe common Sergeant of the City 1583. gave to the water Conduits. 700. ● Thus much for the Conduits of fresh water to this City. The ditch which partly now remaineth, Liber Dunstbl●. and compassed the wall of the City, was begun to be made by the Londoners in the year 1211. & was finished in the year 1213. the 15. of king john, this ditch being then made of 200. foot broad, Ditch about London 20● foot broad. Liber Trinie● caused no small hindrance to the Canons of the holy Trinity, whose church stood near unto Aldgate: for that the said ditch passed through their ground, from the Tower of London, unto Bishopsgate. This ditch being originally made for the defence of the city was long together carefully cleansed and maintained as need required, but now of late neglected and forced either to a very narrow and the same a filthy channel, or altogether stopped up for gardens planted, and houses builded thereon even to the very wall, and in many places upon both ditch and wall, to what danger of the city, I leave to wiser consideration: and can but wish, that reformation might be had. In the year of Christ, 1354. the 28. of Edward the third, the ditch of this city flowing over the bank into the Tower ditch the king commanded the said ditch of the city to be cleansed, and so ordered, that the overflowing thereof, should not force any filth into the Tower ditch. Anno 1379. john Filpot Mayor of London caused this ditch to be cleansed and every household to pay v. ●. which was for a days work towards the charges thereof. Richard the 2. in the tenth of his reign, granted a Tole to be taken of wares sold by water, or by land for 10. years towards repairing of the wall and cleansing of the ditch. Thomas falconer Mayor 1414. caused the ditch to be cleansed. Ralf joceline, Maior 1477. caused the whole ditch to be cast and cleansed, and so from time to time it was cleansed and otherwise reform. In my remembrance also the same was cleansed, namely the Moor ditch, when Sir william holies was Mayor in the year 1540 And not long before or after, from the Tower of London, to Aldgate. It was again cleansed in the year 1549. Henry Amcotes being Mayor, Plenty of fish in the town ditch. at the charges of the companies at which time the said ditch lay open without either wall or pale, having therein great store of very good fish of divers sorts, as many men yet living who have taken and tasted them, can well witness: but now no such matter the charge of cleansing that ditch is saved & great profit made by letting out the banks with the spoil of the whole ditch. I am not ignorant of two fifeteenes granted by a common counsel in the year 1595. for the reformation of this ditch, and that a small portion thereof, to wit, betwixt Bishopsgate, and the Postern called Moregate, was cleansed and made somewhat brother: but filling again very fast, by reason of over raising the ground near adjoining, therefore never the better: and I will so leave it. Of the Bridges of this City. THe original foundation of London bridge, London bride first of timber by report of Bartholomew Linsled, alias Fowl, last Prior of S. Marry Oueries, Church in Southwark was this: a Ferry being kept in place where now the Bridge is builded, at length the Ferrimar and his wife deceasing, A fire over th● Thames between London and Southwark left the same Ferry to their only daughter, a maiden named Marie, which with the goods left by her Parents, as also with the profits rising of the said Ferry, builded a house of Sisters in place where now standeth the east part of S. Marry Oueries church above the Quire, where she was buried, unto the which house the gave the oversight and profits of the Ferry, but afterwards the said house of Sisters being converted into a college of Priests, the Priests builded the Bridge (of Timber) London bridge builded of timber. as all other the great bridges of this Land were, and from time to time kept the same in good reparation, till at length considering the great charges of repairing the same there was by aid of the Citizens of London and others a bridge builded of stone as shall be showed. But first of the timber bridge, the antiquity thereof being uncertain, but I remember to have read, that in the year of Christ, 994. William Malmsebery Sweyn. king of Denmark besieging the city of London, both by water and by land, the Citizens manfully defended themselves, and their king Ethelred, so as part of their enemies were slain in battle, and part of them were drowned in the River of Thames, because in their hasty rage, they took no heed of the Bridge. Moreover in the year 1016. Canute the Dane with a great navy came up to London, and on the south of the Thames, caused a Trench to be cast, through the which his ships were towed into the west side of the bridge, and then with a deep Trench and straight siege he compassed the city round about. Also in the year 1052. Earl Godwin with the like navy, taking his course up the River of Thames, and finding none that offered to resist on the bridge, he sailed up by the southside of the said river. Furthermore about the year 1067. william the Conqueror in his Charter, to the church of S. Peter at westminster, confirmed to the Monks serving God there, a gate in London, then called Buttolphes gate, with a wharf which was at the head of London bridge. ● went ●ryshod under London bridge Liber barmond. We read likewise that in the year 1114. the 14. of Henry the first, the river of Thames was so dried up, and such want of water there was that between the Tower of London, and the bridge, and under the bridge, not only with horse, but also a great number of men, women and children, did wade over on foot. In the year 1122. the 22. of Henry the first. Thomas Arden gave to the Monks of Barmondsey, the church of S. George in Southwark, and v. ●. rend by the year, out of the land pertaining to London bridge, I also have seen a Charter under seal to the effect following. Henry king of England to Ralph B. of Chichester. and all the Ministers of Sussex sendeth greeting, know ye etc. I command by my kingly authority that the Manor called Alcestone, which my Father gave with other Lands, to the Abbey of Battle, be free and quiet from shires and hundreds, and all other Customs of earthly servitude, as my father held the same, most freely and quietly, and namely from the work of London bridge, and the work of the Castle at Penansey: and this I command upon my forfeiture, witness William de Pontlearche at Byrry, the which Charter with the Scale very fair remaineth in the custody of joseph Holland Gentleman. In the year 1136. the first of king Stephen, Liber barmond. Liber trinitate. a fire began, in the house of one Ailewarde, near unto Londonstone which consumed east to Aldgate and west to S. Erkenwals' shrine, in Paul's Church: the bridge of timber over the river of Thames, was also burnt, etc. but afterwards again repaired. For Fitzstephen writeth that in the reign of king Stephen and of Henry the second, when pastimes were showed on the river of Thames, men stood in great numbers on the bridge, wharfs, and houses to behold. Now in the year 1163. the same bridge was not only repaired, but new made of Timber as afore by Peter of Cosechurch, Priest and Chaplain. Thus much for the old timber bridge maintained partly by the proper lands thereof, and partly by the liberality of divers persons 215. years before the bridge of stone was finished. Now touching the foundation of the stone bridge, London bridge of stone four●ded. it followeth thus. About the year 1176. the stone bridge over the river of Thames, at London, was begun to be founded by the foresaid Peter of ColeChurch, near unto the bridge of timber, but some what more towards the west, for I read that Buttolfe wharf was in the Conqueror's time, at the head of London bridge. The king assisted this work: A Cardinal then being Legate here, Liber wavers. and Richard Archbishop of Canterbury, gave one thousand marks, towards the foundation, the course of the river for the time was turned an other way about by a Trench cast for that purpose beginning as is supposed East, about Rodriffe, and ending in the West about Patricksey now termed Batersey, this work, to wit, the Arches and stone bridge over the river of Thames, at London, having been 33. years in building London bride 33. years in building. was in the year, 1209. finished by the worthy Merchants of London, Serle Mercer, william Almain, and Benedict Botewrite, principal masters of that work, for Peter of Cole Church deceased four years before this work was finished, and was buried in the Chapel builded on the same bridge in the year 1205. King john gave certain void places in London to build upon, the profits thereof to remain towards the charges of building and repairing of the same bridge: a Mason being master workemam of the bridge, builded from the foundation, the Chaple on London bridge, Chaple on London bridge of his own● proper expenses, it was endowed for two Priests, four Clerks and other. There was also a chantry for john Hatfielde etc. So that in the year 23. of Henry the 6. there was 4. Chaplains in the said chapel, after that example sundry houses were thereupon shortly after erected, the first action on this bridge was lamentable, for within 3. years after the finishing thereof, to wit, in the year 1212. on the 10. of july at night, a marvelous terrible chance happened, for the city of London upon the south side of the river of Thames as also the church of our Lady of the Canons in Southwark being on fire, Liber dunmew. Gualther Covent. and an exceeding great multitude of people passing the bridge, W. packenton, London bridge perished with Fire. either to extinguish and quench it, or else to gaze at and behold it, suddenly the north part, by blowing of the south wind was also set on fire, and the people which were even now passing the bridge, perceiving the same, would have returned, but were stopped by fire, and it came to pass, that as they stayed, or protracted time, the other end of the bridge also, namely the South end, was fired, so that the people thronging themselves between the two fires, did nothing else but expect present death: then came there to aid them many ships and vessels, into the which the multitude so unadvisedly rushed that the ships being drowned, they all perished: it was said that through the sirs and shipwreck there were destroyed about three thousand persons whose bodies were found in part, or half burned, besides those that were wholly burnt to ashes, and could not be found. About the year 1282. through a great frost and deep snow, 5. Arches of London bridge, were borne down 5. Arches of London bridge borne down and carried away. In the year 1289. the bridge was so sore decayed, for want of reparations, that men were afraid to pass thereon, and a Subsidy was granted towards the amendment thereof, Sir john Britain being Custos of London. In the year 1395. on S. George's day, was a great justing on London bridge, betwixt David Earl Craforde of Scotland, and the Lord Wels of England: in the which, the Lord Wels was at the third course borne out of the saddle, which history proveth, that at that time the bridge being coped on either side was not replenished with houses builded thereupon, as since it hath been and now is. The next year on the 13. of November, the young Queen Isabella, commonly called the little, for she was but 8. years old, was conveyed from Kenington besides Lamhith, through Southwark to the, Tower of London, and such a multitude of people went out to see her, that on London bridge. 9 persons were crowded to death, 9 persons crowded to death on London bridge Tower on London bridge builded. of whom the Prior of Tiptre a place in Essex was one, and a Matron on Cornhill was an other. The Tower on London bridge, at the north end of the draw bridge, for that bridge was then readily to be drawn up, aswell to give passage for ships to Queen hith, as for the resistance of any foreign force, was begun to be builded in the year 1426. john Reinwell being Maior. another tower there is on the said Bridge over the gate at the South end towards Southwark, whereof in an other place shallbe spoken. In the year 1481. an house called the common stage on London bridge fell down An house o● London bri● fell down. into the Thames: through the fall whereof 5. men were drowned: to conclude I affirm of this bridge over the said river of Thames, as in other my descriptions, that it is a work very rare, having with the draw bridge, 20. Arches made of squared stone, of height 60. foot, and in breadth 30. foot distant, one from an other, 20. foot, compact and joined together with vaults and sellers: upon both sides be houses builded, so that it seemeth rather a continual street than a bridge for the continual fortifying, whereof against the incessant assaults of the river, it hath overseers and Officers, uz. Fleet bridge Fleet brid●● in the west without Ludgate, a bridge of stone fair coped, on either side with iron piked, on the which towards the south be also certain Lanterns of stone, for lights to be placed in the winter evenings, for commodity of travelers. Under this bridge runneth a water sometimes called (as I have said) the river of the Wells, since Turnemill brook, now Fleet dike, because it runneth by the Fleet, and so under Fleet bridge, into the river of Thames. This bridge hath been far greater in times past, but hath been lessened, as the water course hath been narrowed. It seemeth, this last bridge to be made at the charges of john Wels Mayor in the year, 1431. for on the coping is engraven Wells embraced by Angels, like as on the Standard in Cheap, which he also builded: thus much of the Bridge: for of the water course and decay thereof I have spoken in an other place. Oldebourne bridge Oldbourne bridge. over the said river of the Wells more towards the North was so called, of a Bourne that sometimes ran down Oldborne hill into the said River, this bridge of stone like as Fleet bridge, from Ludgate west, serveth for passengers with carriage or otherwise from Newgate toward the west and by North. Cowbridge Cowbridge. more north over the same water by Cowbridge street or Cowlane: this bridge being lately decayed, an other of timber is made, somewhat more North, by Chick lane, etc. Bridges over the Town ditch, Bridge over the town ditch there are divers: to sweet without Aldgate, without Bishopsgate, the Postern called Moregate, the Postern of Cripplegate without Aldersgate, the Postern of Christ's Hospital, Newgate and Ludgate, all these be over paved likewise with stone leavell with the streets. But one other there is of Timber over the river of wells, or Fleet dike between the precinct of the Black Friars, and the house of Bridewell. There have been, of old time also divers bridges in sundry places, over the course of Walbrooke. Bridges over the course of Walbrooke. I read that every person having lands on either side of the said walbrooke, should vault, or bridge, and cleanse the same so far as his lands extended. The 11. of Edward the third, the inhabitants upon the course of this Brook were forced to pile and wall the sides thereof. In the third of Henry the fift, this watercourse having had many bridges, (as ye have heard) I have read of one by the name of Horshew bridge, Horshew bridge. by the Church of S. john Baptist now called S. john's upon walbrooke, which hath been since vaulted over with brick, and the Streets and Lanes where through it passed so paved, that the same watercourse or brook is now hardly discerned. Order was taken the 2. of Edwaarde the fourth, that such as had ground on either side of walbrooke, should vault and pave Walbrooke vaulted and paved. it over so far as his ground extended. And thus much for Bridges may suffice. Gates in the wall of this City. GAtes Gates of London 4 north, south, east and west. in the wall of this City of old time were 4 to wit, Aldgate for the east, Aldersgate for the North, Ludgate for the West, and the Bridgegate over the river of Thames, for the South, but of later times for the ease of the Citizens and Passengers, divers other gates and Posterns have been made as shallbe showed. In the reign of Henry the second (saith Fitzstephen) there were seven double gates in the wall of this City, but he nameth them not. It may be supposed he meant for the first, the gate next to the Tower of London, which then served as a Postern for Passengers out of the East: from thence through Towerstreete, Eastcheap, and Candleweekestrete, to Londonstone, the middle point of that high way: then through Budgerow, wathelingstreete, and leaving Paul's Church on the right hand, to Ludgate in the west, the next be Aldgate, Bishopsgate, Cripplegate, Aldersgate, Ludgate, and the Bridgegate, over the Thames. Since the which time hath been builded Newgate, the Postern called Moregate, a Postern from Christeshospital, towards S. bartelmew's Hospital in Smithfielde etc. Of every of these gates and Posterns as also of certain watergates severally somewhat may be noted, as I find authority to warrant me. The first was the Postern gate next unto the Tower of London Postern by the Tower ●● London. which at the length fell down in the year 1440. the 18. of Henry the 6. and was never re-edified again of stone, but an homely cottage with a narrow passage made of timber, lath, and loam: hath been in place thereof set up, and so remaineth. The ruin of the said Postern began in the year 1190. the second of Richard the first, william Longshampe Bishop of Ely and Chancellor of England, caused a part of the city wall, to wit, from the said gate towards the river of Thames to be broken down for the enlarging of the Tower, which Tower he compassed far wi●e about with a wall, and is now the utter wall of the Tower, he also caused a broad and deep ditch to be made without the same wall, intending to have derived the river of Thames, to have flowed about it. By means of this ditch the foundation of that gate being loosed and greatly weakened, fell at the length, as ye have hear●e and so remaineth. The next in the East in Aldgate Aldgate. of old time so called of the antiquity or age thereof. It appeareth by a Charter of king Edgar to the Knights of Kinghtone Guild, that in his days the said port was called Aldgate. Also Matilde the Queen, wife to Henry the first, in the eight year of his reign, having founded the Priory of the Holy Trinity within Aldegate, gave unto the same church, to Norman the first Prior, and the Canons that devoutly served God therein, the port of Aldegate, & the Soak or Soak or Court Franchise thereunto belonging with all customs, as free as she held the same, etc. In the which Charter, she nameth the house Christ's church, and reporteth Aldegate to be of her demain. The next towards the north, is called Bishopsgate, Bishopsgate. for that, as it may be supposed, the same was first builded by some Bishop of London, the certainty whereof is unknown, but true it is that this gate was first builded for the ease of the passengers towards the East and by North, as into Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, etc. The travelers into which parts before the building of this gate were forced, passing out at Aldegate, to go east till they came to the Miles end, & then to turn on the left hand to Blethenhal green now called Bednal green, to Cambridge heath, and so North, or East and by North, as their journey lay. If they took not this way, by the East out at Aldgate, they must take their way by the North out at Aldersgate through Aldersgate street, and Goswelstreete towards Iseldon, and by a cross of stone on their right hand, set up for a mark by the North end of Golding lane to turn Eastward through a long street until this day called Aldestreete, to an other cross standing, where now standeth a Smiths Forge by Sewers ditch church, and then to turn again North towards Tottenham, Endfield, Waltham, Ware, etc. The eldest note that I read of this Bishopsgate, is that wiliam Blund one of the Sheriffs of London in the year, Liber trinitati. 1210. sold to Serle Mercer, and William Almains procurators, or Wardens, of London bridge, all his land with the garden, in the Parish of S. Buttolph without Bishopsgate, between the land of Richard Casiarin towards the north, and the land of Robert Crispy towards the South, and the high way called Bearewardes lane Bishopsgate street without, of old time called Bearewardes lane. on the East etc. Next I read in a Charter Charter. dated the year 1235. that Walter Brune Citizen of London, and Rosia his wife founded the Priory or new Hospital of our blessed Lady, since called S. Marry Spittle, without Bishopsgate, for Canons regular the 19 of Henry the third. Also in the year 1247. Simon Fitzmarie, one of the Sheriffs of London, the 29. of H. the third, founded the Hospital of S. Marry, Record. called Bethlem without Bishopsgate. Thus much for Antiquity, now for repairing of this gate. I found, that Henry the third granted or confirmed to the Merchants of the Haunce, Liber custom, London. that had an house in the city called Guildhalla Theutonicorum, certain Liberties and Privileges. Edward the first also confirmed the same. In the 10. year of whose reign, it was found that the said Merchants aught of right so repair the said gate called Bishopsgate. Whereupon Gerarde Marbod, Alderman of the Haunce and other, then remaining in the City of London: for themselves, and all others Merchants of the said hance, granted, 210. marks sterling to the Mayor and Citizens. And covenanted that they and their successors should from time to time repair the same gate. Bishopsgate repaired by the Merchants of the Haunce Bishopsgate was builded. This gate was again beautifully builded in the year 1479. in the reign of Edward the 4. by the said Haunce Merchants: Mor●uer about the year 1551. these Haunce Merchants having prepared stone for that purpose, caused a new gate to be framed, there to have been set up, but then their. Liberties through suit of our English Merchants, were seized into the King's hand, and so that work was stayed, and the old gate yet remaineth. Touching the next Postern, called Moregate, Bishopsgate, provided to have been new builded Postern, called Moor●● gate. I find that Thomas Falconer Maior, about the year one thousand four hundred and fifteen, the third of Henry the fift, caused the wall of the City to be broken near unto Colemanstreete and there builded a Postern, now called Moregate, upon the Moor side where was never gate before. This gate he made for ease of the Citizens, that way to pass upon causewaies into the field, for their recreation: For the same field was at that time a Marish. This Postern was re-edified by William Hampton Fishmonger Mayor, in the year 1472. In the year also, 1511. the third of Henry the eight. Roger Achely Maior, caused Dikes and Bridges to be made, and the ground to be leviled, and made more commodious for passage since which time the same hath been heighthened. So much that the Ditches and Bridges are covered, and if it be made level with the Battlements of the City wall: yet will it be little the drier, such is the Moorish nature of the ground. The next is the Postern of Cripplegate postern of Cripplegate. Abba Floriensis. Burcharde. so called long before the Conquest. For I read in the History of Edmonde King of the East Angles, written by Abba Fl●riacensis, & by Burchard sometime Secretary to Offa king of Marcia. That in the year ●0●0. The Danes spoiling the kingdom of the East Angles, Alwyne Bishop of Helmeham, caused the body of king Edmonde the Martyr to be brought from Bedrisworth, (now called Bury S. Edmond's) through the kingdom of the East Saxons, and so to London in at Cripplegate, a place (saith mine Author) so called of Cripples begging there: at which gate, (it was said) the body entering, miracles were wrought, as some of the Lame did go upright, praising God. The body of King Edmond rested for the space of three years in the Parish church of Saint Gregory, near unto the Cathedral Church of Saint Paul. Moreover the Charter of William the Conqueror, confirming the foundation of the College in London called S. Martin the great, hath these words. I do give and grant to the same Church and Cannons, serving God therein. All the land and the Moor without the Postern, which is called Cripplegate, on either part of the Postern. Liber S Bar●tilmew. Besides this Alfune builded the parish church of S. Giles nigh a gate of the city called Porta contractorum, or Criplesgate about the year 1090. This Postern was sometime a prison, whereunto such Citizens and others, as were arrested for debt, Criplesgate a prison for t●espassors. or common trespasses were committed, as they be now to the Compters, which thing appeareth by a writ of Edward the first in these words: Rexvic. London, salutem: ex gravi querela B. captain. & detent. in prisona nostra de cripples gate pro x. ●, Record. quas co●am Radulpho de Sandwico tunc custod, Civitatis nostrae London, & I. de Blackwell civis recognit. debit. etc. This gate was new builded by the Brewers of London in the year 1244. as saith Fabians Manscript. Criplesgate new builded. Edmond Shaw Goldsmith, Mayor, in the year 1483. at his decease appointed by his testament his executors, with the cost of 400. Marks, and the stuff of the old gate, called cripples gate, to build the same gate of new, which was performed and done, in the year 1491. The next is Aldresgate or Aldersgate, Aldersgate. so called not of Aldrich, or of Elders, that is to say, ancient men, builders thereof, Beware the Cat. nor of Eldarne trees growing there more abundantly, then in other places, as some have fabuled, but for the very antiquity of the gate itself, as being one of the first four gates of the city, and serving for the Northern parts, as Aldegate did for the East, which two gates being both old gates, are for difference sake called, the one Aldegate, and the other Aldergate. This gate hath at sundry times been increased with buildings, namely, on the south or innerside, a great frame of timber hath been added and set up, containing divers large rooms, and lodgeinges: also on the East side, is the addition of one great building of timber, with one large floor paved with stone, or tile, and a Well therein kerbed with stone, of a great depth, and rising into the said room, which is two stories high from the ground: which Well is the only peculiar note belonging to that gate, for I have not seen the like in all this City, to be raised so high. john Day Stationer, a late famous printer of many good books, in our time dwelled in this gate, and builded much upon the wall of the city towards the parish Church of Saint Anne. Than is there also a Postern gate made out of the wall on the North side of the late dissolved cloister of friars minors, commonly of their habit called Grey Friars, now Christ's Church, and Hospital. A Postern out of Christ's Hospital, This Postern was made in the sixth year of Edward the sixth, to pass from the said Hospital of Christ's Church, unto the Hospital of Saint Bartholomew in Smithfield. The next gate on the west, and by North, is termed Newgate, Newgate. as latelier builded than the rest. This gate was first erected about the reign of Henry the second, or Richard the first, upon this occasion. The Cathedral Church of Saint Paul, being burnt about the year 1086. in the reign of William the Conqueror, Mauritius then Bishop of London, rapayred not the old● church, as some have supposed, but began the foundation of a new work, such as men then judged would never have been performed, it was to them so wonderful for height, length, and breadth, as also in respect it was raised upon arches or vaults, etc. After Mauritius, Richard Beamore did wonderfully advance the work of the said Church, purchasing the large streets, and lanes round about, wherein were wont to devil many lay people, which grounds he began to compass about with a strong wall of stone, and gates. By means of this increase of the Church territory, but more by enclosing of ground, for so large a cemitorie, or church yard: the high and large street stretching from Aldegate in the East, until Ludgate in the West, was in this place so crossed and stopped up, that the carriage through the city Westward, was forced to pass without the said churchyard wall on the North side, through Pater noster row: and then south down ave Mary lane, and again West through Bowiar row to Ludgate: or else out of Cheap, or Wathelingstreet to turn South through the old Exchange, than West through Carter lane: again North up creed lane, and then West to Ludgate. Which passage, by reason of so often turning, was very cumbersome, and dangerous both for horse and man. Newgate first builded, and the cause why. For remedy whereof, a new gate was made, and so called, by which men and cattle with all manner of carriages, might pass more directly (as afore) from Aldegate, through West Cheap by Paul's on the North side, through Saint Nicholas Shambleses, and Newgate market to Newgate, and from thence to any part Westward over Oldborne bridge, or turning without the gate into Smithfielde, and through Iseldon to any part North and by West. This gate hath of long time been a Jail, Close role. Newgate a ●ayle or prison house. The king repaired it. or prison, for felons and trespassers, as appeareth by records in the reign of King john, of which amongst other I found one testifying that in the year 1218. The third of King Henry the third, the King writeth unto the Sheriffs of London, commanding them to repair the gail of Newgate, for the safe keeping of his prisoners, and that the charges which they should lay out, should be allowed unto them upon their account in the Exchequer. Moreover in the year 1241. the jews of Norwich were hanged for circumcising a Christian child, their house called the Thor, was pulled down and destroyed, Aron the son of Abraham a jew, at London, and the other jews were constrained to pay twenty thousand marks at two terms in the year, or else to be kept perpetual prisoners in Newgate of London and in other prisons. 1255. King Henry the third lodging in the Tower of London, upon displeasure conceived towards the City of London, for the escape of john Offrem a prisoner being a Clerk convict, out of Newgate, which had killed a Prior that was of alliance to the King, as cozen to the Queen, he sent for the Mayor and Sheriffs to come before him, to answer the matter: the Mayor laid the fault from him to the Sheriffs, The sheriffs of London prisoners in the Tower for escape of a prisoner out of Newgate. forsomuch as to them belonged the keeping of all prisoners within the city, and so the Mayor returned home, but the Sheriffs remained there prisoners, by the space of one month and more, and yet they excused themselves in that the fault chief rested in the Bishop's Officers: for whereas the prisoner was under custody, they at his request had granted licence to imprison the offendor within the gail of Newgate, but so as the Bishop's Officers were charged to see him safely kept. The King notwithstanding all this, demanded of the city 3000. marks for a fine. In the year 1326. Robert Baldoke, the kings Chancellor was put in Newgate. The kings Chancellor prisoner in New gate. In the year 1337. S. john Poultney gave four marks by the year, to the relief of prisoners in Newgate. In the year 1385. William Wallwoorth gave somewhat to relieve the prisoners in Newgate so have many others since also. In the year 1414. the Gaylors of Newgate and Ludgate died, and prisoners in Newgate to the number of 64. In the 1418. The Parson of Wrotham in Kent was imprisoned in Newgate. The year 1422. the first of Henry the sixth, licence was granted to john Coventre, janken Carpenter, and William grieve, Newgate new builded. executors to Richard Whittington, to reediste the gail of Newgate, which they did with his goods. Lastly Thomas Knowles Mayor, by licence of Reynold Prior of S. Bartlemew's, in Smithfield, and also of john Wakering Master of the Hospital of S. Bartlemewe, and his brethren, conveyed the waste of water at the cistern near to the common fountain and Chapel of S. Nicholas, (situate by the said Hospital) to the Gailes of Newgate, and Ludgate, for relief of the prisoners, and this may suffice for Newgate. Ludgate Ludgate. in the West is the next, and is called Ludgate as first builded (saith Geffrey Monmouth) by King Lud a Briton, about the year before Christ's nativity 66 Of which building, and also of the name, as Ludsgate, or Floods gate, hath been of late some question amongst the learned, wherefore I over pass it, as not to my purpose, only referring the reader to that I have before written, out of Caesar's commentaries, and other Roman writers concerning a town or City amongst the Britain's. This gate I suppose to be one of the most ancient: and as Aldgate was builded for the East, Roger Winde●ar. Matl●ew Paris. so was this Luds gate for the west. I read as I told you that in the year 1215. The 17. of King john the Barons of the Realm, being in arms against the King entered this City, and spoiled the jews houses, to fill their own purses which being done, Robert Fitzwater, and Geffrey de Magna villa Earl of Essex, and the Earl of Gloucester chief leaders of the Army, applied all diligence to repair the gates and walls of this City, with the stones of the jews broken houses, especially (as it seemeth) they then repaired or rather new builded Ludgate. Ludgate new builded. For in the year 1586. when the same gate was taken down to be new builded, there was found couched within the wall thereof, a stone taken from one of the jews houses, wherein was engraven in Hebrew Characters these words following, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 jews houses spoiled. Haec est statio Rabbi Moses, ● insignis Rabbi Isaac: which is to say, this is the Station, or Ward of Rabbi Moses, the son of the honourable Rabbi Isaac, and had been fixed upon the front of one of the jews houses as a note, or sign that such a one dwelled there. In the year 1260. this Ludgate was repaired and beautified with images of Lud and other Kings, as appeareth by letters patents Patent. in the Tower, of licence given to the citizens of London, to take up stone for the making of those images, dated the 45. of Henry the third. These images of Kings in the reign of Edward the sixth had their heads smitten off, and were otherwise defaced, by unadvised folks, and in the reign of Queen Marie were repaired, as by setting new heads on their old bodies, etc. All which so remained until the year 1586. Ludgate again new builded. The 28. of Queen Elizabeth, when the same gate being sore decayed was clean taken down, the prisoners in the mean time remaining in the large Southeast quadrant to the same Gate adjoining, and the same year, the whole gate was newly and beautifully builded with the images of Lud, & others, as afore, on the East side, and the picture of her Majesty, Ludgate enlarged in the reign of H. the sixth. Queen Eilzabeth on the West side. All which was done at the common charges of the citizens, amounting to 1500. ●. or more. Ludgate a fre● prison. This gate was made a free prison in the year 1378. the first of Richard Record Guild. hall. the second, Nicholas Brembar being Mayor. The same was confirmed in the year 1382. john Northampton being Mayor, by a common counsel in the Guild hall: by which it was ordained that all free men of this City should for debt, trespasses, accounts, and contempts, be imprisoned in Ludgate, and for treasons, felonies, and other criminal offences be committed to Newgate. etc. In the year 1439 the tenth of King Henry the sixth, john Welles being Mayor, & court of common counsel established ordinanances, (as William Standon & Robert Chicheley, late Majors before had done) touching the guard and government of Ludgate, and other prisons. Also in the year 1463. the third of Edward the fourth, Matthew Philip being Mayor, in a common counsel, at the request of the well disposed, blessed, and devout woman, Dame Agnes Forster, widow, late wife to Stephen Forster Fishemonger, sometime Mayor, for the comfort and relief of all the poor prisoners, certain Articles were established. Inprimis, that the new works then late edified by the same Dame Agnes, for the enlarging of the prison of Ludgate, from thenceforth should be had and taken, as a part and parcel of the said prison of Ludgate, so that both the old and new work of Ludgate aforesaid, be one prison, gail, keeping, and charge for evermore. The said Quadrant strongly builded of stone, by the before named Stephen Forster, and Agnes his wife, containeth a large walking place by ground, the like room it hath over it for lodgings, and over all a fair leads to walk upon, well imbattayled, all for ease of prisoners, to the end they should have lodging and water free without charge: as by certain verses graven in Copper, & fixed on the said Quadrant, I have read in form following. Old verses on Ludgate. Devout souls that pass this way, for Stephen Forster late Mayor, heartily pray, And Dame Agnes his spouse, to God consecrated, that of pity this house made for Londoners in Ludgate. So that for lodging and water prisoners here naught pay, as their keepers shall answer at dreadful domes day. This plate, and one other of his Arms, taken down with the old gate, I caused to be fixed over the entry of the said Quadrant, but the verses being unhappily turned inward to the wall, the like in effect is graven outward in prose, declaring him to be a Fishmonger, because some upon a light occasion (as a maidens head in a glass window) had fabuled him to be a Mercer, and to have begged there at Ludgate, etc. Thus much for Ludgate. Next this, is there a breach in the wall of the City, A breach in the wall against Bridewell. and a bridge of timber over the Fleet dike, betwixt Fleet bridge and Thames, directly over against the house of Bridewell. Of the water gates of name, on the bank of the river of Thames. The first from the West towards the East, is called Ripa Reginae, the queens bank, or Queen Hith, Watergates Queen's heath which may well be accounted a water gate, & the very chief of this city, being a common strand or landing place, yet equal with, & of old time as far excelling Belin's gate, as shallbe showed in the ward of Queen Hith. The next is Down gate, Down gate. so called (as may be supposed) of the sudden descending, or down going of that way from S. john's Church upon Walbrooke unto the River of Thames, whereby the water in the channel there hath such aswift course, that in the year 1574. on the fourth of September after a strong shower of rain, a lad (of the age of 18. years) A lad of 13. years old. drowned in a channel at downegate. minding to have leapt over the channel, was taken by the feet and borne down with the violence of that narrow stream, and carried toward the Thames with such a violent swiftness, as no man could rescue or stay him, till he came against a cart wheel, that stood in the water gate, before which time he was drowned, and stark dead. This was sometime a large water gate, frequented of ships and other vessels, like as the Queen Hith, and was a part thereof, as doth appear by an Inquisition made in the 28. year of Henry the third, wherein was found, that aswell corn as fish and all other things coming to the Port of Down gate, were to be ordered after the customs of the queens Heath, for the king's use, as also that the corn arriving between the gate of the Guildhall of the Merchants of Cullen: the (Styleyarde) which is East from Down gate, and the house then pertaining to the Archbishop of Canterbury, West from Baynard's castle, was to be measured by the measure and measurer of the Queens soak, or Queen Hith. Merchants of the Haunce, landed their corn betwixt their house, & the Black friars I read also in the 19 of Edward the third, that customs were then to be paid for ships and other vessels resting at Down gate, as if they road at Queen Hith, and as they now do a Belingsgat. And thus much for Down gate may suffice. The next after Downgate (of old time) was called Wolses gate Wolses gate in the Ropery. Liber Horn Liber S. Albon in the reperie in the parish of All-hallows the less, of later time called Wolses lane, but now out of use: for the lower part was builded on by the Earl of Shrewsburie, and the other part was stopped up, and builded on by the Chamberlain of London. The next is Ebgate, Ebgate Liber trinitate, Liber S, Albon Record E. the 3. a Watergate, so called of old time, as appeareth by divers records of tenements near unto the same adjoining. It standeth near unto the Church of S. Laurence Pountney, but is within the parish of S. Marten Ordegare. In place of this gate is now a narrow passage to the Thames, and is called Ebgate lane, but more commonly the Old Swan. Than is there a water gate at the Bridge foot, called Oyster gate, Oystergate of Dysters that were there of old time commonly to be sold, and was the chiefest market for them, and for other shell fishes There standeth now an engine, or forcier, for the winding up of ter to serve the city, whereof I have already spoken. The next is the Bridge gate, Bridge gate. so called of London Bridge whereon it standeth: This is one of the four first and principal gates of the city, and was long before the conquest, when there stood a Bridge of timber: which Gate being weakly made, when the bridge was builded of stone, hath been often times since repaired. This gate with the Tower upon it, in the 1436. fell down, & two of the farthest Arches Southwards also fell therewith, and no man perished or was hurt therewith. To the repairing whereof, divers wealthy citizens gave large sums of money, namely Robert Large, sometime Mayor, gave to that work 100 marks, Stephen Forster 20. l. S. john Crosby Alderman 100 l. etc. But in the year 1471. W. Dunthorne the Kentish Mariners under the conduct of Bastard Fauconbridge, burned the said Gate, and xiii. honses on the Bridge, besides the Beer houses at S. Katherine's, and many other in the suburbs. The next is Buttolphes gate, Buttolphes gate. so called of the parish Church of S. Buttolph near adjoining. This gate was sometime given, or confirmed by William Conqueror, to the Monks of Westminster in these words: W. Rex Angliae etc. William King of England, sendeth greeting to the Sheriffs & all his ministers, as also to all his loving subjects, French and English of London, Know ye that I have granted to God, and S. Peter of Westminster, & to the Abbot Vitalis, the gift which Almundus of the port of S. Buttolph gave them, when he was there made Monk: that is to say, his Lord's court with the houses, and one Wharfe, which is at the head of London bridge, and all other his lands which he had in the same city, in such sort as King Edward more beneficially, and amply granted the same: and I will and command, that they shall enjoy the same well and quietly and honourably with sake, and soak etc. The next is Belingsgat Belingsgat. now used as an especial port or harborough, for small ships and boats coming thereto, and is now the largest water gate on the River of Thames, and therefore most frequented, the queens Heath being almost forsaken. Now this Gate took that name, or of what antiquity the same is, must leave uncertain, as not having read any ancient record thereof, more than that Geffrey Monmouth Geffrey Monmouth. writeth, that Belin a King of the Britan's, about 400. years before Christ's nativity builded this gate, and named it Belin's gate, after his own calling: and that when he was dead, his body being burned, the ashes in a vessel of brass, were set upon a high pinnacle of stone over the same Gate. But Cesar, and other the Roman writers, affirm of cities, walls, and gates, as ye have before heard, and therefore it seemeth to me not to be so ancient, but rather to have taken that name of some later owner of the place, happily named Belin, as Somars Key, Smarts Key, Froth wharf, and others thereby took their names of their owners: of this gate more shall be said when we come to Belin's Gate ward. Than have you a Water gate Watergate by the custom house. on the West side of Wool wharf, or Customers Key, which is now of late most beautifully enlarged and built, This gate is commonly called the Water-gate, as being at the South end of Water lane. One other Water gate there is by the Bulwark of the Tower, Watergate by the Tower. and this is the last and farthest water gate Eastward, on the River of Thames, so far as the city of London extendeth within the walls: both which last named water gates be within the Tower ward. Besides these common Water gates were divers private wharfs and Keys Wharfes and Keys. all along from the East to the West of this City, on the bank of the River of Thames: Merchants of all nations had landing places, Beware houses, sellers and stowage of their goods and merchandises, as partly shall be touched in the Wards adjoining to the said River, and therefore concerning Gates let this suffice. Of Towers and Castles. THe City of London (saith Fitzstephens') hath in the East a very great & a most strong Palatine Tower, The Tower ● London. whose turrets and walls do rise from a deep foundation, the mortar thereof being tempered with the blood of beasts. In the west part are two most strong Castles etc. To begin therefore with the most famous Tower of London, situate in the East, near unto the River of Thames, it hath been the common opinion: and some hans written (but of none assured ground) that julius Cesar, the first Conqueror of the Britain's, was the original Author, and founder aswell thereof, as also of many other Towers, castles, and great buildings within this Realm: but (as I have already before noted) Cesar remained not here so long, nor had he in his head any such matter, In my Annals. but only to dispatch a conquest of this barbarous country, and to proceed to greater matters. Neither do the Roman writers make mention of any such buildings erected by him here. And therefore leaving this, and proceeding to more grounded authority, I found in a fair register book, of the acts of the Bishops of Rochester, set down by Edmond of Hadenham, that William the first (surnamed Conqueror) builded the Tower of London, Tower of London builded by William Conqueror, namely the white Tower. to wit, the great white and square Tower, there, about the year of Christ 1078. appointing Gundulph, than Bishop of Rochester, to be principal surveyor and overseer of that work, who was for that time lodged in the house of Edmere a Burgess of London, the very words of which mine Author are these. Gundulphus Episcopus mandato Willielmi Regis magni praefuit operi magnae Turris London. quo tempore hospitatus est apud quendam Edmerum Burgen●em London. qui dedit unum were Ecclesiae Rofen. This was the great square Tower, which was then builded, and hath been since, at divers times enlarged with other buildings adjoining, as shall be showed hereafter. William Malmsebery. Matthew Paris I London, Castle by the Tower builded. This Tower was by tempest of wind sore shaken in the year 1090. the fourth of William Rufus, and was again by the said Rufus and Henry the first repaired. They also caused a castle to be builded under the said Tower, to weet, on the South side towards the Thames. Othowerus, Acolinillus, Otto, and Geffrey Earl of Essex were four of the first Constables of this Tower of London, by succession: all which held by force a portion of land (that pertained to the Priory of the holy Trinity within Aldgate) that is to say, East Smithfield, Eastsmithfield ●● vineyard. near unto the Tower, making thereof a Uyneyarde, and would not departed from it, till the second year of King Stephen, when the same was adjudged and restored to the said Church. Ex. Chart●. This Geffrey Magnaville was Earl of Essex, Constable of the Tower, Sheriff of London, Geffrey Magna Ville, Earl of Essex, Constable of the Tower and Sheriff of London. Middlesex Essex, and Hertford shires, as appeareth by a Charter of Maud the Empress, dated 1141. He also fortified the Tower of London against King Stephen, but the King took him in his court at S. Albon, and would not deliver him till he had rendered the Tower of London, with the Castles of Walden, and Pleshey in Essex. Roger Windevar. About the year 1190. the second of Richard the first, William Longshampe Bishop of Elie, Chancellor of England, for cause of dissension betwixt him and Earl john john Bever. the King's brother, that was rebel, enclosed the Tower, The Tower of London compassed about with a wall & a ditch. and castle of London, with an outward wall of stone imbattailed, and also caused a deep ditch to be cast about the same, thinking (as I have said before) to have environed it with the River of Thames. By the making of this ditch in Eastsmithfield, the Church of the holy Trinity in London lost half a mark rend by the year, & the Mill was removed that belonged to the poor brethren of the Hospital of S. Katherine, S. Katherine's mill stood where now is the Iron gate of the Tower. and to the Church of the Trinity aforesaid, which was no small loss and discommodity to either part, and the garden which the King had hired of the brethren for six marks the year, for the most part was wasted and marred by the ditch. Recompense was often promised, but never performed, until King Edward coming after, gave to the brethren five marks and a half for that part which the ditch had devoured: and the other part thereof without, he yielded to them again, which they hold: and of the said rend of five marks and a half they have a deed, by virtue whereof, they are well paid until this day. About the year 1239. King Henry the third caused the Tower of London to be fortified with bulwarks, Bulwark without the Tower builded. which after they were builded fell down, and therefore he caused it to be re-edified more strongly, to his cost of more than twelve thousand marks. Matthew Paris. In the year 1274. King Edward the first commanded the Treasurer and Chamberlain of his Exchequer, to deliver out of his Treasury, unto Giles of Andwarp 200. Record. Tower. Ditch about the Towerres paired. marks, of the fines, taken of divers Merchants, or usurers of London, towards the work of the ditch about the Tower of London. Edward the fourth fortified this Tower, and made if strong. And in the year 1532. King Henry the eight repaired the white Tower. Tower repaired by Henry the eight, Thus much for the foundation and building, increase and maintenance of this Tower. Now somewhat of accidents in the same. In the year 1196. Actions of the Tower. William Fitzosbart, a citizen of London seditiously moving the common people to seek liberty, and not to be subject to the rich, and more mighty, at length was taken and brought before the Arrhbishoppe of Canterbury in the Tower, justices sat in the Tower of London. where he was by the judges condemned, had judgement, and was by the heels drawn thence to the Ealmes in Smithfield, and there hanged. In the year 1220. all the Plées belonging to the crown, were holden in the Tower: Pleas of the Crown pleaded in the Tower. and likewise in the year 1224. etc. In the year 1222. the citizens of London having made a tumult against the Abbot of Westminster, Hubert of Burgh, chief justice of England, Matthew Paris. came to the Tower of London, called before him the Mayor and Aldermen, of whom he inquired for the principal authors of that sedition: amongst whom one named Constantine Fitz Aelulfe Constantine Fitz Aelufe hanged avowed, that he was the man, and had done much less than he aught to have done: Whereupon the justice sent him with two other to Falks de Brent, who with armed men, brought him to the gallows, and there hanged him & other twain. In the year 1244. Griffith Griffith of Wales fell from the Tower. the eldest son of Leoline, prince of Wales, being kept prisoner in the Tower, devised means of escape, and having in the night made of the hangings, sheeets, etc. a long line, he put himself down from the top of the Tower, but in the sliding, the weight of his body, (being a very big and a fet man) broke the rope, and he fell and broke his neck withal. In the year 1253. King Henry the third, imprisoned the Sheriffs of London in the Tower, Sheriffs of London prisoners in the Tower. more than a month, for the escape of a prisoner out of Newgate. In the year 1260. King Henry K. Henry landed in the Tower, and held his Parliament there's. with his Queen (for sear of the Barons) were lodged in this Tower. The next year he sent for his Lords, and held his parliament there. In the year 1263. when the Queen would have removed from the Tower by water, towards Windsor, sundry Londoners got them together to the bridge, under the which she was to pass, and not only cried out upon her with reproachful words, but also threw mire & stones at her, by which she was constrained to return for the time, but in the year 1265. the said Citizens were feign to submit themselves to the king for it, and the Mayor, aldermans, & Sheriffs were sent to divers prisons, & a Custos also was set over the City, to wit, Othon Constable of the Tower, etc. In the year 1282. Leoline Prince of Wales Leoline prince of Wales his head set on the Tower. being taken at Blewth Castle, Roger Lestrange cut off his head, which Sir Roger Mortimer caused to be crowned with ivy, and set it upon the Tower. In the year 1290. divers justices aswell of the Bench, justices of the Bench sent to the Tower. as of the assizes, were sent prisoners to the Tower, which with great sums of money redeemed their liberty. In the year 1320. the kings justices sat in the Tower, justices sat in the Tower. for trial of matters, whereupon john Gifors late Mayor of London, and many other fled the City for fear of things they had presumptuously done. In the year 1321. the Mortimers yielding themselves to the King, he sent them prisoners to the Tower, where they remained long, and were adjudged to be drawn and hanged. But at length Roger Mortimer Mortimer made an escape out of the Tower. Citizens of London wrested the keys of the Tower from the Constable. Mortimer drawn from the Tower to the Elms, & hanged of Wigmore by giving to his keepers a sleepy drink, escaped out of the Tower, and his uncle Roger being still kept there died about five years after. In the year 1326. the Citizens of London wrested the keys of the Tower out of the Constable's hands, & delivered all the prisoners. In the year 1330. Roger Mortimer Earl of March was taken and bronght to the Tower, from whence he was drawn to the Elms and there hanged. In the year 1344. King Edward the third commanded Florence's of gold to be made and coined in the Tower, that is to say, a penny piece of the value of six shillings and eight pence, the half penny piece, of the value of iij. ●. and iiij. ●. and a farthing piece worth 20. pence, Percivall de port of Luke being then Master of the coin. And this is the first coining of Gold in the Tower, A Mint in the Tower: Florences of gold coined there. whereof I have read, & also the first coining of Gold in England: for (that I may a little digress by occasion hereof) I found that in times before passed, Argent, and Pecunia after called Estarling. all great sums were paid by weight of gold or silver, as so many pounds or marks of silver, or so many pounds or marks of Gold, as I could prove by many good authorities, which I overpass. The smaller sums also were paid in starlings, which were pence, so called, for other coins they had none. The antiquity of this starling penny usual in his Realm, is from the reign of Henry the second: notwithstanding, the Saxon coins before the conquest were pence of fine silver full the weight, and somewhat better than the latter starlings, as I have tried by conference of the pence of Burghrede king of Mercia, Aelfred, Edward, and Edelrod, kings of the West Sexons, Plegmond Archbishop of Canterbury, and others. William the conquerors W. Conqueror Wear no beards. W. Malmsbery penny also was fine silver of the weight of the Easterling, and had on the one side stamped an armed head, with a beardless face, (for the Normans did wear no beards) with a sceptre in his hand: the inscription in the circumference was this, Le Rei Wilan on the other side a Cross double to the ring, between four rowals of six points. King Henry the first his penny was of the like weight, fineness, form of face, cross etc. This Henry in the eight year of his reign, ordained the penny which was round, so to be quartered, by the cross, that they might easily be broken, Roger Hoveden. into half pence and farthings. In the first, second, third, fourth, and fift of king Richard the first his reign, and afterwards I found commonly Esterling money mentioned, and yet often times the same is called argent as afore, and not otherwise. The first great sum that I read of to be paid in Esterlinges, was in the fift of Richard the first, when Robert Earl of Leycester being prisoner in France, proffered for his ransom a thousand marks Esterlinges, notwithstanding the Esterling pence were long before. The weight of the Esterling penny Weight of starling penny 32. grains of Wheat. may appear by divers statutes, namely of weights and measures, made in the 51. of Henry the third in these words. Thirty two grains of Wheat, dry and round, taken in the midst of the ear, should be the weight of a starling penny, 20. of those pence should way one ounce, 12. ounces a pound Troy, It followeth in the statute eight pound to make a gallon of Wine, and eight gallons a bushel of London measure; etc. Notwithstanding which Statute, I found in the eight of Edward the first, Gregory Rokefley Mayor of London, being thief Master or minister of the kings Exchange, or mints, a new coin being then appointed, the pound of Esterling money should contain as afore 12. ounces, to wit, fine silver, such as was then made into foil, and was commonly called silver of Guthurons' lane, 11. ounces, two Estarlings, and one ferling or farthing, and the other 17. pence ob. q. to be lay. Also the pound of money aught to weigh xx. ●iij. ●. by account, so that no pound aught to be over xx. ●. iiij. ●. nor less than xx. ●. ij. ●. by account, the ounce to weigh twenty pence, the penny weight, 24. grains (which 24. by weight then appointed, were as much as the former 32. grains of weight) a penny force, 25. grains and a half, the penny deble, or feeble 22. grains and a half etc. Now for the penny Esterling how it took that name, I think good briefly to touch. The penny Esterling how i● took the name. It hath been said that Numa Pompilius the second King of the Romans' commanded money first to be made, of whose name they were called Numi, and when Copper pence, silver pence, and gold pence were made, because every silver penny was worth ten Copper pence, and every Gold penny worth ten silver pence, the pence therefore were called in Latin Denarij, and oftentimes the pence are named of the matter and stuff of Gold or silver. But the money of England was called of the workers and makers thereof: as the Floren of gold is called of the Florentines, that were the workers thereof: and so the Esterling pence took their name of the Esterlinges, which did first make this money in England in the reign of Henry the second. Thus have I set down according to my small reading in antiquity: these money matters, omitting the imaginations of late writers, of whom some have said Esterling money to take that name of a star, stamped in the border, or ring of the penny: other some of a bird called a Stare or starling Starling money when it took beginning in this land. stamped in the circumference: and other (more unlikely) of being coined at Sirivelin or Starling, a town in Scotland. etc. Now concerning half pence, and farthings, Of halfpence and farthings. the account of which is more subtler than the pence, I need not speak of them more, then that they were only made in the Exchange at London, and no where else. The kings Exchange at London, The kings Exchange at London. was near unto the Cathedral Church of S. Paul, and is to this day commonly called the old Change, but in Evidences the old Exchange. The king's Exchaunger, in this place, was to deliver out to every other Exchaunger, throughout England, or other the kings Dominions, their Coining irons, that is to say, one standard, or Staple, and two Trussels, or puncheon: and when the same were spent and woorne, to receive them with an account, what sum had been coined, and also their Pix, or Box of assay and to deliver other Irons new graven, etc. Mints in England. I find that in the 9 of king john, patent 9 john there was beside the Mint at London, other Mints, at Winchester, Excester, Chicester, Canterbury, Rochester, Ipswitch, Norwitch, Lenn, Lincoln, York, Ca●lell, Northhampton, Oxford, S. Edmond bury, and Durham. The Exchanger, Examiner, and Trier, buyeth the silver, for Coinage: answering for every 100 ●. of silver, bought in Bolion, or otherwise, 98. l. 15. ●. for he taketh 25. ●. for coinage. Diminishing. of Coin. In the year 1351. William Edington Bishop of Winchester, and Treasurer of England, a wise man, but loving the kings commodity, more than the wealth of the whole Realm, & common people, (saith mine Author) caused a new coin, called a groat, and a half groat, to be coined and stamped, Thomas Walsingham. First groats and half coined. the groat to be taken for iiij. ●. and the half groat for ij. ●. not containing in weight according to the pence called Easterlings, but much less, to wit by v. ●. in the pound: by reason whereof, victuals, and merchandises became the dearer, through the whole Realm. About the same time also, the old coin of gold, Coins of gold enhanced. was changed into a new, but the old noble (than so called) was worth much above the taxed rate of the new, and therefore the Merchants iugrossed up the old, and conveyed them out of the Realm to the great loss of the kingdom. Wherhfore a remedy was provided by changing of the stamp. In the year 1464. king Edward the 4. caused a new Coin both of gold Coins of gold allayed and also raised in value, Rose, Noble. and silver to be made, whereby he gained much: For he made of an old Noble a Royal, which he commanded to go for x. ●. Nevertheless to the same Royal was put 8. ●. of Allay, and so weighed the more, being smitten, with a new stamp, to wit a Rose. He likewise made half Angels of 5. ●. and Farthings, of 2. ● 6. ●. Angelets of 6. ●. 8. ●. and half Angels 3. ●. 4. ●. He made silver moneys of 3. ●. a groat, and so of other Coins after that rate, to the great harm of the commons. William Lord hastings being Master of the kings Mints. Thus much for Mint and coinage in and by occasion of this Tower, where the chief coining hath long continued, under correction of other more skilful may suffice: and now to other accidents here. In the year 1360. the Peace between England and France, being confirmed, King Edward came over into England, and strait to the Tower, to see the French king then prisoner there, French king Prisoner in the Tower. whose ransom he assessed at three millions of Florence's, and so delivered him from Prison, and brought him with honour to the Sea. In the year 1381. the Rebels of Kent, Rebels of Ken● enter the Tower. drew out of the Tower (where the king was then lodged,) Simon Sudbery, Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Chancellor: Robart Hales Prior of S. john's, and Treasurer of England: William Appleton Friar, the kings confessor, and john Leg a sergeant of the kings, and beheaded them on the Tower hill. etc. In the year 1387. king Richard Richard the 2. prisoner in the Tower. held his feast of Christmas in the Tower. And in the year 1399. the same king was sent prisoner to the Tower. In the year 1414. Sir john Oldecastle broke out of the Tower. And the same year a Parliament being holden at Leicester, a Porter of the Tower was drawn, hanged and headed, whose head was sent up, and set over the Tower gate, for consenting to one Whitlooke, that broke out of the Tower. In the year 1419. Friar Randulph was sent to the Tower, and was there slain by the Parson of S. Peter's in the Tower. In the year 1465. king Henry the 6. was brought prisoner to the Tower, where he remained long. In the year, 1470. the Tower was yielded to the Mayor of London, and his Brethrens the Aldermen, who forthwith entered the same, and delivered king Henry, but the next year he was again sent thither, and there murdered. In the year, 1478. George Duke of Clarence was drowned in the Tower: and within 5. years after king Edward the 5. with his brother were murdered in the Tower. King Henry the 6. murdered in the Tower King Edward the 5. murdered in the tower. In the year, 1502. Queen Elizabeth wife of Henry, the 7. died of childbirth in the Tower. In the year 1512. the Chapel in the high white Tower was burned. In the year 1536. Queen Anne Bullen was beheaded in the Tower. In the year 1541. Lady Katheren Howard wife to king Henry the 8. was also beheaded there. Thus much for these accidents: and now to conclude thereof in summary. This Tower Use of the Tower. is a citadel, to defend or command the City: A royal palace for assemblies, and treaties. A prison of Estate, for the most dangerous offenders: The only place of coinage for all England at this present. The armory for warlike provision. The Treasury of the ornaments and jewels, of the Crown, and general conserver of the most ancient Records of the kings Courts of justice at Westminster. The next Tower on the river of Thames, is on London bridge at the North end of the draw bridge. Tower at the north end of the draw bridge This Tower was new begun to be builded in the year, 1426. john Reynwell Mayor of London, laid one of the first corner stones, in the foundation of this work, the other three were laid by the sheriffs, and Bridgemaisters, upon every of these four stones was engraven in fair Roman letters, the name of Jesus'. And these stones, I have seen laid in the Bridge store house, since they were taken up, when that Tower was of late newly made of timber. This gate and Tower was at the first strongly builded up of stone, and so continued until the year 1577. in the month of April, when the same stone Arched gate, and Tower being decayed was begun to be taken down, and then were the heads of the Traitors removed thence, and set on the Tower over the gate at the bridge foot, towards Southwark. This said Tower being taken down a new foundation was drawn: and Sir john Langley Lord Maior laid the first stone in the presence of the sheriffs, and Bridge masters, on the 28. of August, and in the month of September, the year 1579. the same Tower was finished a beautiful and chargeable piece of work, all above the bridge being of timber. another Tower there is on London bridge, to wit, over the gate at the South end of the same bridge Tower at the south end of the bridge. towards Southwark. This gate with the Tower thereupon, and two Arches of the Bridge fell down, and no man perished by the fall thereof in the year, 1436. The south gate on London bridge burned Towards the new building whereof, divers, charitable Citizens gave large sums of money: which gate being then again new builded, was in the year 1471. burned by the Mariners and Sailors of Kent, Bastard Fauconbridge, being their Captain. In the west part of this city, (saith Fitzstephen) are two most strong castles etc. Also Garuasius Tilbery, in the reign of Henry the second, writing of these castles, hath to this effect. Two Castles (saith he, are built with walls and rampires, whereof one, is in right of succession, Baynard's: Baynard's Castle. Fitzstephen. Garua. Tilbery the other the Barons of Mountfitchet: the first of these castles bankying on the river Thames, was called Baynard's Castle, of Baynarde, a noble man that came in with the Conqueror, and then builded it and deceased in the year of the reign of William Rufus: after whose decease Geoffrey Baynarde succeeded, and then William Baynarde, in the year 1111. who by forfeiture for felony, lost his Barony, of little Dunmow and king Henry gave if wholly to Robart Fitz Richard the Son of Gilbarte Earl of Clare, and to his heirs together with the honour of Baynard's castle. This Robart married Maude de Sent Licio, Lady of Bradham and deceased 1134. was buried at S. Needs, by Richard Earl of Clare, his Father. Walter, his son succeeded him, he took to wife, Matilde de Becham, and after her decease Matilde de Lucy, on whom he begat Robarte and other, he deceased in the year 1198. and was buried at Dunmow after whom succeeded Robart Fitzwater a valiant knight. About the year 1213. there arose a great discord betwixt king john, and his Barons, because of Matilde, Liber Dunm●●. surnamed the fair daughter, to the said Roberte Fitzwater, whom the king unlawfully loved, but could not obtain her, nor her father would consent thereunto, whereupon (and for other like causes) ensued war throughout the whole Realm. The Barons were received into London, where they greatly endamaged the king, but in the end the king did not only, (therefore) banish the said Fitzwater Robert Fitzwater banished. (amongst other), out of the Realm: but also caused his Castle called Baynarde, Baynard's castle destroyed. and other his houses to be spoiled, which thing being done Matilde, the fair, a Messenger being sent unto her, Virginity defended with the loss of worldly goods and life of the body, for life of the soul about the kings suit, whereunto she would not consent, was poisoned. Robert Fitzwater, and some other being then passed into France, and some other into Scotland. etc. It happened in the year 1214. king john being then in France with a great Army, that a truce was taken beewixt the two kings of England and France, for the term of 5. years, and a river or arm of the sea being then betwixt either Host. There was a knight in the English host, that cried to them of the other side, willing some one of their knights to come and just a course or twain with him, whereupon without stay Robert Fitzwater being on the French part, made himself ready, ferried over, and got on horseback, without any man to help him, and showed himself ready to the face of his challenger, whom at the first course, he stroke so hard with his great Spear, that horse and man fell to the ground, and when his spear was broken, he went back again to the king of France, which when the king King john's oath. had seen, by God's tooth (quoth he) after his usual oath, he were a king indeed, that had such a knight: the friends of Robert hearing these words, kneeled down and said: O King he is your knight: it is Robert Fitzwater, Robert Fitzwater restored to the king's favour. and thereupon the next day he was sent for, and restored to the kings, favour: by which means peace was concluded, and he received his livings, and had licence to repair his Castle of Baynarde Baynard's castle again builded. and other Castles. This Robert deceased in the year 1234. and was buried at Dunmow, and Walter his son that succeeded him 1258. his Barony of Baynarde, was in the ward of king Henry in the nonage of Robert Fitzwater. This Robert took to his second wife Alienor, daughter to the Earl of Ferrars, in the year, 1289. And in the year 1303. before john Blund Mayor of London, he acknowledged his service to the same City for his Castle Baynarde, he deceased in the year 1305. and leaving issue Walter Fitz Robert, who had issue Robert Fitzwater Richard Fitzwater Castilian of London, and banner bearer. who deceased in the year 1325. unto whom succeeded Robert Fitz Robert Fitzwater, etc. Moore of the Lord Fitzwaters may ye read in my summary and Annals in the 51. of Edward the 3.. But now how this honour of Baynard's Castle with the appurtenances fell from the possession of the Lords Fitzwaters, I have not read, only I find that Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, Humphrey Duke of Gloucester new budded Baynard's Castle. Richard Duke of York, honour of Baynard's Castle. Richard of Gloucester in Baynard's Castle took on him the Crown. builded it of new, by whose death in the year of Christ, 1446. it came to the hands of king Henry the sixth, and from him to Richard Duke of York, of whom we read, that in the year 1457 he lodged there, as in his own house: and true it is, that his son king Edward the fourth being dead, and leaving his eldest son Edward and his second son Richard, both infants: there Richard Duke of Gloucester, than Protector, practised for the Crown, and as it were by election of the Commons, made in the Guild hall of London, took upon him there the title of the Realm, as offered and imposed upon him: as ye may read set down and penned, by Sir Thomas Moor. King Henry the 7. about the year 1501. the 3. of his reign, repaired or rather new builded this house not so embattled, or so strongly fortified castlelike, but far more beautiful and commodious, for the entertainment of any Prince or great estate. In the 7. of his reign he with his Queen were lodged there, and came from thence to Paul's, where they made their offering: dined in the Bishop's Palace, and so returned. King Henry the first was lodged in Baynard's Castle. The eighttenth of his reign he was lodged there and the Ambassadors from the king of Romans' were thither bronght to his presence, and from thence the King came to Pawles and was there sworn unto the king of Romans', as the king had sworn unto him. This Castle now belongeth to the Earl of Pembroke. The next Tower, or Castle banking also on the River of Thames, was, as is afore showed, called Mountfiquites Castle, Tower of Montfiquit. of a noble man, Baron of Mountfitcher the first builder thereof who came in with William the Conqueror and was surnamed Le Sir Mountfiquit. This Castle he builded in a place not far distant from Baynard's, towards the West. The same William Mountfiquit lived in the Reign of Henry the 1. and was witness to a Charter, then granted to the city for the sheriffs of London. Richard Montfiquit lived in king john's time: and in the year 1213. was by the same king banished the Realm into France, when peradventure king john caused his Castle of Montfiquit, amongst other Castles of the Barons to be overthrown: the which after his return, might be by him again re-edified, for the total destruction thereof was about the year 1276. when Robert Kiliwarble, Archbishop of Canterbury began the foundation of the house of the Friars Preachers church there, commonly called the Black Friars as appeareth by a Charter, the 10. of june, the 4, of Edward the 1. remaining of Record in the Tower, wherein is declared that Gregory de Rocksley Mayor of London, and the Barons Barons of London. of the same City granted, and gave unto the said Archbishop Robert two lanes or ways next the street of Baynard's castle and the Tower of Montfiquit, to be applied for the enlargement of the said Church and place. A third Tower there was also situate on the river of Thames Tower in the Thames. near unto the said Black friars Church, on the west part thereof, builded at the Citizen's charges, but by licence and commandment of Edward the 1. and of Edward the 2. as appeareth by their grants: which Tower was then finished and so stood for the space of 300. years, and was at the last taken down by the commandment of john Shakstone Mayor of London in the year 1502. another Tower or Castle Tower or Castle on the west of London by S. Bride's Church. also was there in the west part of the City, pertaining to the king: For I read that in the year 1087. the 20. of William the first, the City of London with the Church of S. Paul. being burned, Mauritius then Bishop of London afterward began the foundation of a new Church, whereunto king William (saith mine Author) gave the choice stones of this Castle standing near to the bank of the river of Thames, at the west end of the City. After this Mauritius, Richard his successor, purchased the streets above Paul's church compassing the same with a wall of stone, and gates. ●ita Arken●ald King Henry the first gave to this Richard so much of the Moat (or wall) of the Castle, on the Thames side to the south, as should be needful to make the said wall of the Churchyard, and so much more as should suffice to make a way without the wall on the North side etc. This Tower (or Castle) thus destroyed stood as it may seem, in place where now standeth the house called Bridewell. For notwithstanding the destruction of the said Castle or Tower, the house remained large, so that the kings of this Realm long after were lodged there, and kept their Courts: for in the 9 year of Henry the third the Court of law and justice, were kept in the kings house, The kings house by S. Brides in Eleetestreete. wheresoever he was lodged, and not else where. And that the kings have been lodged and kept their Law courts in this place, I could show you many authorities of Record, but for plain proof this one may suffice. Haec est finalis concordia, facta in Curia Domini regis apud Sanct. Brigid. London a die Sancti Michelis in 15. dies, Anno regni regis Ioha●nis 7. coram G. Fil. Petri. Eustacio de Faucomberg, johann de Gestlinge Osbart filio Heruey, Walter, de Crisping, justiciar. & aliis Baronibus Domini regis. Moore (as Matthew Paris Matthew Pari● manuscripts. Parliament at S. Brides. hath) about the year 1210. king john in the 12. of his reign summoned a Parliament at S. Brides in London, where he exacted of the Clergy and religious persons the sum of 100000. pounds, & besides all this, the white Monks were compelled to cancel their Privileges, and to pay 40000. pounds to the king, etc. This house of S. Brides of latter time being left, and not used by the kings: fell to ruin, insomuch that the very platform thereof remained for great part waste, and as it were, but a laystall of filth and rubbish: only a fair well remained there: a great part whereof, namely on the west, (as hath been said) was given to the Bishop of Salisbnry, the other part towards the East remaining waist, until that king Henry the 8. builded a stately and beautiful house thereupon, giving it to name Bridewell, Bridewell builded by Henry the 8. of the parish and well there: this house he purposely builded for the entertainment of the Emperor Charles the 5. who in the year, 1522. came into this City, as I have showed in my summary annals, and large chronicles. On the northwest side of this City, near unto Redcrosse street there was a Tower commonly called Barbican, or Burhkenning, Barbican or Burhkenning. for that the same being placed on a high ground, and also builded of some good height, was in the old time used as a Watch Tower, for the City, from whence a man might behold and view the whole City towards the South, as also see into Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, and likewise every other way east, north, or west. Some other Burhkennings or (Watch Towers) there were of old time in and about the city, all which were repaired, yea and others new builded, by Gilbart de Clare earl of Gloucester, in the reign of king Henry, the third, when the Barons were in Arms, and held the city against the k●ng: but the Barons being reconciled to his favour in the year 1267. he caused all their Burhkenninges, watch towers, and Bulwarks made and repaired by the said Earl, to be plucked down, and the ditches to be filled up: so that naught of them might be seen to remain: and then was this Burhkenning amongst the rest overthrown and destroyed: and although the ditch near thereunto, called Hounds ditch was stopped up, yet the street of long time after was called Hounds ditch, and of late time more commonly called Barbican. The plot or seat of this Burhkenning or watch tower, king Edward the third in the year 1336. and the 10. of his reign, gave unto Robert Efforde Earl of Suffolk, by the name of his Manor of Base court, in the parish of S. Giles without Cripple gate of London, commonly called the Barbican. Tower Royal Tower Royal. was of old time the kings house, but sithence called the Queen's Wardrobe: the Princess, mother to King Richard the 2. in the 4. of his reign was lodged there being forced to fly from the tower of London, when the Rebels possessed it: But on the 15. of june (saith Frosarde) ●ohn Frosarde. Wat Tylar being slain, the king went to this Lady Princess his mother, then lodged in the Tower Royal, called the Queen's Wardrobe, where she had tarried 2. days and 2. nights: which Tower (sayeth the Record of Edward the 3. the 36. year) was in the Parish of S. Michael de Pater noster, etc. Liber S. in enborum. The king of Ermony came into England. In the year 1386. king Richard with Queen Anne his wife, kept their Christmas at Eltham, whether came to him Lion king of Ermony under pretence to reform Peace, betwixt thekinges of England and France, but what his coming profited he only understood: for besides innumerable gifts, that he received of the king, and of the Nobles, the king lying then in this Royal at the Queen's Wardrobe, Richard the 2. lodged in the Tower Royal. in London, granted to him a Charter of a thousand pounds by year, during his life. He was (as he affirmed) chased out of his kingdom by the Tartarians. The rest concerning this Tower shall you read when you come to the Vintry ward in which it standeth. Of Schools and other houses of Learning. IN the reign of king Stephen, and of Henry the second saith Fitzstephen, there were in London, three principal Churches: which had famous Schools, Famous Schools of philosophy by privilege in London. either by privilege and ancient dignity, or by favour of some particular persons, as of Doctors which were accounted notable and renowned for knowledge in Philosophy. And there were other inferior Schools also. Upon Festival days the Masters made solemn meetings Solemn meetings and disputing of scholars Logically and Demonstratively. in the Churches, where their Scholars disputed Logically and demonstratively, as he termeth it: some bringing Enthimems, other perfect syllogisms, some disputed for show, others to trace out the truth: cunning Sophisters were thought brave Scholars, when they flowed with words: Others used Fallaxes: Rhetoricians spoke aptly to persuade, observing the precepts of art, and omitting nothing that might serve their purpose: the bo●es of divers Schools Grammar schools and scholars thei● exercises. did cap, or pot verses, and contended of the principles of Grammar: there were some, which on the other side with Epigrams and Rhymes, nipping and quipping their fellows, and the faults of others, though suppressing their names, moved thereby, much laughter among their Auditors: hitherto out of Fitzstephen for Schools and Scholars, and for their exercises in the City, in his days, Since the which time, as to me it seemeth, by the increase of Colleges and Studients in the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, the frequenting of Schools and exercises of Scholars in the City as had been accustomed hath much decreased. The three principal Churches, which had these famous Schools by privileges must needs be at the Cathedral Church of S. Paul for one, seeing that by a general Council holden in the year of Christ, 1.176. at Rome, in the patriarchy of Latarane, Matthew Paris it was decreed that every Cathedral Church should have his Schoolmaster to teach poor Scholars every cathedral Church had his school for poor scholars and others as had been accustomed, and that no man should take any reward for licence to teach. The second as most ancient may seem to have been the Monastery of S. Peter at Westminster, whereof jugulphus jugulphus (abbot of Crowland in the reign of William the Conqueror writeth thus:) I jugulphus an humble servant of God borne of English parents, in the most beautiful City of London, for to attain to learning, was first put to Westminster Free school at Westminster, in the reign of Edward the Confessor. and after to study at Oxford, etc. And writing in praise of Queen Edgitha, wife to Edward the Confessor, I have seen her, saith he, often when being but a boy, I came to see my father dwelling in the kings court, and often coming from School, when I met her, she would oppose me, touching my learning, and lesson, & falling from Grammar to Logic, wherein she had some knowledge, she would subtly conclude an argument with me, and by her handemaiden give me 3. or 4. pieces of money, and sand me unto the Palace where I should receive some victuals, and then be dismissed. The third School seemeth to have been at the Monastery of S. Saviour at Barmondsey in Southwark: for other Priories, as of S. john by Smithfielde, S. Bartholomew, in Smithfielde. S. Marry Ouery in Southwark, and that of the Holy Trinity by Aldgate, were all of later foundation, and the Friories, Colleages, and Hospitals in this City, were raised since them, in the reigns of Henry the 3, Edward the 1. 2. and 3. etc. All which houses had their Schools, though not so famous as these first named. But touching Schools more lately advanced in this City, I read, that king Henry the fift having suppressed the Priories Priories alliens suppressed● aliens whereof some were about London, namely one Hospital, called Our Lady of Rouncivall by Charing Cross: one other Hospital in Oldbourne: one other without Cripplegate: and the fourth without Aldersgate, besides other that are now worn out of memory and whilst there is no monument remaining more than Rouncivall converted to a brotherhood which continued till the reign of Henry the 8. or Edward the 6. this I say, and other their schools being broken up and ceased: king Henry the sixth in the 24. of his reign, by patent, appointed that there should be in London, Grammar schools, besides S. Paul's, at S. Martins Henry the sixth appointed Grammar Schools. Le Grand, S. Marry Le Bow, in Cheap, S. Dunston's in the west and S. Anthony's. And in the next year to wit, 1394. the said king ordained by Parliament that four other Grammar schools should be erected, to wit in the parishes of S. Andrew in Oldborne, Grammar schools appointed by Parliament. All-hallows the great in Thames street, S. Peter. upon Cornhill, and in the Hospital of S. Thomas of Acons in west Cheap, since the which time as divers schools by suppressing of religious houses (whereof they were members) in the reign of Henry the 8. have been decayed, so again have some others been newly erected, and founded for them: as namely Paul's school, Paul's school new builded. in place of an old ruined house was builded in most ample manner, and largely endowed, in the year 1512. by john Collet Doctor of Divinity Deane of Paul's, for 153. poor men's children: for which there was ordained a Master, Surmaister, or Usher, and a Chaplain. Again in the year 1553. after the erection of Christ's hospital Free schools in Christ's Hospital. in the late dissolved house of the Grey Friars, a great number of poor children being taken in a School was also ordaned there, at the Citizen's charges. Also in the year 1561. the Merchant Tailors Free school founded by the Merchant Tailors. of London: founded one notable free Grammar School, in the parish of S. Laurence Poultney by Candleweeke street, Richard hills late master of that Company: having given 500 ●. toward the purchase of an house, called the Manner of the Rose, sometime the Duke of Buckingham's, wherein the School is kept. As for the meeting of the Schoolmasters, on festival days, at festival churches, & the disputing of their Scholars Scholars disputed in S. Bartilmews churchyard. Logically etc. whereof I have before spoken, the same was long since discontinued: But the arguing of the School boys about ●th principles of Grammar, hath been continued even till our time: for I myself in my youth have yearly seen on the Eve of S. Bartholomew the Apostle, the scholars of divers Grammar schools repair unto the Churchyard of S. Bartholomew, the Priory in Smithfielde, where upon a bank boarded about under a Tree, some one Scholar hath stepped up, and there hath appoased and answered, till he were by some better Scholar overcome and put down: and then the overcomer, taking the place, did like as the first: and in the end the best apposars and answerers had rewards, which I observed not, but it made both good Schoolmasters, and also good Scholars, diligently against suchtimes to prepare themselves for the obtaining of this garland. I remember there repaired to these exercises amongst others the Masters & Scholars of the free Schools of S. Paul's in London: of S. Peter's at Westminster: of S. Thomas acon's Hospital: and of S. Anthony's Hospital: whereof the last named commonly presented the best scholars: and had the prize in those days. This Priory of S. Bartholomew, being surrendered to H. the 8. those disputations of Scholars in that place succeased. Disputation of Scholars in Christ's Hospital. And was again (only for a year or twain) in the reign of Edward the 6. revived in the Cloystre of Christ's Hospital, where the best Scholars than still of S. Anthony's school, howsoever the same be now fallen, both in number and estimation, were rewarded with bows and arrows of silver given to them by Sir Martin Bowes Goldsmith: nevertheless howsoever the encouragement failed, the children mindful of the former usage did for a long season disorderly in the open streets, provoke one an other with salve tu quoque, placet tibi mecum disputare, placet: and so proceeding from this to questions in Grammar, they usually fell from that to blows, many times in so great heaps that they troubled the streets, & passengers, so that finally they were restrained. Of latter time, in the year of Christ, 1582. there was founded a public lecture in chirurgery to be read in the College of Physicians, Lecture in Chirurgery in Knightriders street, and to begin in the year 1584. on the 6. of May: and so to be continued for ever twice in every week, on wednesday and Friday, by the honourable Baron, john Lord Lombley and the learned Richard Caldwell Doctor in Physic: the Reader whereof to be Richard Forster, Doctor of Physic during his life. Furthermore about the same time there was also begun a Mathematical lecture to be read in a fair old Chapel, Mathematical lecture read. builded by Simon Eayre, within the Leaden hall: whereof a learned Citizen borne, named Thomas Hood was the first Reader. But this Chapel and other parts of that hall being employed for stowage of goods taken out of a great Spanish Carrack, the said Lecturs ceased any more to be read, and was then in the year 1588. read in the house of M. Thomas Smith in Grass street, etc. Last of all S. Thomas Gresham knight, Sir Thomas Gresham's College in London. Agent to the queens Highness, by his last will and testament made in the year 1579. gave the Royal Exchange, and all the buildings thereunto appertaining, that is to say, the one moiety to the Mayor and commonalty of London and their successors, upon trust that they perform as shallbe declared: and the other moiety to the Mercers in like confidence. The Mayor and commonalty are to found four to read Lectures, of Divinity, Astronomy, Music, and Geometry, within his dwelling house in Bishopsgate street, and to bestow the sum of 200, ●. to wit 50. ●. the piece etc. The Mercers likewise are to found three Readers, that is in Civil law, Physic, and Rhetoric within the same dwelling house, the sum of 150. ●. to every Reader 50. ●. etc. Which gift hath been since that time confirmed by Parliament, to take effect, and begin after the decease of the Lady Anne Gresham, which happened in the year 1596. and so to continued for ever. Whereupon the Lecturers were accordingly chosen and appointed to have begun their readings in the month of june 1597. etc. which also they do at this time perform. Whose names be Anthony Wootton for Divinity, Doctor Matthew Guin for Physic, Doctor Henry Mountlow for the Civil law, Doctor john Bull for Music, Breerewood for Astronomy, Henry Brigges for Geometry, and Caleb Willis for Rhetoric, to the great delight of many both learned and lovers of learning. These Lectures are read daily in the term times, by every one upon his day, in the morning betwixt 9 and 10. in Latin: in the afternoon betwixt 2: and 3. in English, save that D. Bull is dispensed with to read the Music Lecture in English only upon two several days, Thursday and Saturday in the after noon, betwixt 3. and 4. of the clock. Houses of students of the Common Law. BUt besides all this there is in and about this City a whole University A university of students in & about this City. (as it were) of students, practisers or pleaders and judges of the laws of this realm, not living of common stipends (as in other Universities it is for the most part done) but of their own private maintenance, as being altogether fed either by their places, or practise, or otherwise by their proper revenue, or exhibition of parents and friends: for that the younger sort are either gentlemen, or the sons of gentlemen, or of other most wealthy persons. Houses of students of the common laws and judges. Of these houses, there be at this day 14. in all, whereof 9 do stand within the liberties of the City, and 5. in the suburbs thereof, to wit: Sergeants Inn in Fleetstreet for judges & Sergeants only Sergeant's Inn in Chancery lane The Inner Temple in Fleetstreet, houses of Court. The Middle Temple Within the liberties. Clifford's Inn in Fleetstreet Thavies Inn in Oldborne furnival's Inn in Oldborne houses of Chancery Barnard's Inn, in Oldborne Staple Inn in Oldborne Gray's Inn in Oldborne Lincoln's Inn, in Chancery, lane by the old Temple in Oldborne. houses of Court Without the liberties. Clement's Inn New Inn houses of Chancery, without Temple bar. lions Inn One other Inn of Chancery sometime there was, called Chester's Inn, Chester's Inn or strand Inn for the nearness to the Bishop of Chester's house, but more commonly termed Strand Inn, for that it stood near to the Strand bridge without temple Bar: the which and other dwelling houses near adjoining, were pulled down in the reign of king Edward the sixth, by Edward Duke of Somerset and Protector of the realm, who in place thereof raised that beautiful (but yet unperfect house) called Somerset house. There was moreover in the reign of King Henry the sixth, a tenth house of Chancery, mentioned by justice Fortscue in his book of the Laws of England, but where it stood or when it was abandoned I cannot find, and therefore I will leave it, and return to the rest. The houses of Court Houses of Court what they be. be replenished partly with young students, and partly with graduates and practisers of the law: but the Inns of Chancery being as it were, provinces, severally subjecteth to the Inns of Court, be chief furnished with Officers Attorneys, Solicitors, and clerks, that follow the courts of the King's Bench, or common place: and yet there want not some other being young students, that come thither sometimes from one of the universities, and sometimes immediately from Grammar schools, and these having spent some time in studying upon the first elements and grounds of the law, and having performed the exercises of their own houses (called Boltas Mootes, and putting of cases) they proceed to be admitted, and become students in some of these four houses or Inns of Court, where continuing by the space of seven years (or thereabouts) they frequent readings, meetings, boltinges, and other learned exercises, whereby growing ripe in the knowledge of the laws, and approved withal to be of honest conversation, they are either by the general consent of the Benchers (or Readers) being of the most ancient, grave, and judicial men of every Inn of the Court, or by the special privilege of the present reader there, selected and called to the degree of Utter Barresters, and so enabled to be common counsellors, & to practise the law, both in their chambers and at the Bars. Of these after that they be called to a further step of preferment, (called the Bench) there are twain every year chosen among the Benchers, of every Inn of Court, to be readers there, who do make their readings at two times in the year also: that is, one in Lent, and the other at the beginning of August. And for the help of young students in every of the Inns of Chancery, they do likewise choose out of every one Inn of court a Reader (being no Bencher) but an Utter Barrister there, of 10 or 12. years continuance, and of good profit in study. Now from these of the said degree of Councillors (or Utter Barrister) having continued therein the space of fourteen or fifteen years at the lest, the chiefest and best learned, are by the benchers elected to increase the number (as I said) of the Bench amongst them, and so in their time do become first single, and then double readers, to the students of those houses of Court: after which last reading they be named Apprentices at the law, Apprentizes at the law. and in default of a sufficient number of Sergeants at law, these are (at the pleasure of the prince) to be advanced to the places of Sergeants: out of which number of Sergeants also the voided places of judges are likewise ordinarily filled, albeit now and then some be advanced by the special favour of the Prince, to the estate, dignity and place, both of Sergeant and judge, as it were in one instant. But from thenceforth they hold not any room in those Inns of court, being translated to one of the said two Inns, called sergeants Inns, where none but the Sergeants and judges do convere. Of Orders & Customs. OF Orders and Customs in this City of old time Fitz Stephen saith as followeth: Men of all trades, Men of all trades in distinct places. Wine in ships and wine in Taverns. Cook's row in Thamestreet. sellers of all sorts of wares, labourers in every work, every morning are in their distinct and several places: furthermore, in London upon the river side, between the wine in ships, and the wine to be sold in Taverns, is a common cookery or cook's row, there daily for the season of the year, men might have meat, roast, sod or fried: fish, flesh, fowls, fit for rich and poor. If any come suddenly to any Citizen from a far, weary and not willing to tarry till the meat be bought, and dressed, while the servant bringeth water for his masters hands, and fetcheth bread, he shall have immediately from the rivers side, all viands whatsoever he desireth, what multitude soever either of soldiers or strangers do come to the City, whatsoever hour day or night according to their pleasures may refresh themselves, & they which delight in delicateness may be satisfied with as delicate dishes there, as may be found else where. And this cook's row is very necessary to the City: and (according to Plato in Gorgias) next to Physic, is the office of cooks, as part of a City. Without one of the gates is a plain field, Smithfield for a plain smooth ground, is called smeth and smothie. both in name and deed, where every friday (unless it be a solemn bidden holy day) is a notable show of horses to be sold, Earls, Barons, Knights, and Citizens repair thither to see, or to buy: there may you with pleasure see amblers pacing it delicately: there may ye see trotters fit for men of arms, sitting more hardly: Market for horses and other cattle. there may you have notable young horse not yet broken: there may you have strong steeds well limmed, geldings whom the buyers do especially regard for pace, and swiftness: the boys which ride these horses, sometime two, sometime three, do run races for wagers, with a desire of praise, or hope of victory. In an other part of that field are to be sold all implements of husbandry, as also fat swine, milk kine, sheep and oxen: there stand also mares and horses, fit for ploughs and teams with their young colts by them. At this city Merchants of all nations traded at this City, & had their several Keys and wharfs. Marchante strangers of all nations had their keys and wharfs: The Author's opinion of this City, the antiquity thereof after some authors which he had read. the Arabians sent gold: the Sabians spice and frankincense: the Scythian armour, Babylon oil, Indian purple garments, Egypt precious stones, Norway and Russia Ambergrese, & Sables, & the French men wine. According to the truth of Chronicles, this City is ancienter than Rome, This City divided into Wards more than 400 years since, and also had then both Aldermen and Sheriffs. built of the ancient Troyans' and of Brute, before that was built by Romulus, and Rhemus: and therefore useth the ancient customs of Rome. This City even as Rome, is divided into Wards: it hath yearly sheriffs in steed of consuls: it hath the dignity of Senators in Aldermen. It hath under Officers, Common Sewers, and conduits in streets, according to the quality of causes, in hath general Courts: and assemblies upon appointed days. I do not think that there is any City, wherein are better customs, Customs of London. in frequenting the Churches, in serving God, in keeping holy days, in giving alms, in entertaining strangers in solemnizing Marriages, in furnishing banquets, celebrating funerals, and burying dead bodies. The only plagues of London, is immoderate quassing among the foolish sort, and often casualties by fire. Casualty of fires when houses were covered with thatch. Most part of the Bishops, Abbots, and great Lords of the land have houses there, whereunto they resort, and bestow much when they are called to Parliament by the king, or to counsel by their Metropolitan, or otherwise by their private business. Thus far Fitzstephen of the estate of these things in his time, whereunto may be added the present, by conference whereof, the alteration will easily appear. Men of trades and sellers of wares in this City have often times since changed their places, as they have found their best advantage. For whereas Mercers and Haberdashers used to keep their shops in West Cheap, of later time they held them on London bridge, where partly they yet remain. The Goldsmiths of Gutherons' lane, and old Exchange, are now for the most part removed into the South side of west Cheap: the Peperers and Grocers of soper's lane, are now in Buckles berry, & other places: the Drapers of Lombardstréete and of Cornhill, are seated in Candlewickstréete and Watheling street: the Skinners from S. Marry Pellipers, or at the Axe, into Budgerow and Walbrooke: The Stockefishmongers Stockfishmonger row, old fish-street, and new fish-street. in Thames street: wet Fishmongers in Knightriders street, and Bridge street: The iron-mongers of iron-mongers lane, and old jury, into Thames street: the vintners from the Uinetrée into divers places. But the Brewers for the more part remain near to the friendly water of Thames: the Butchers in Eastcheap, and S. Nicholas Shambleses: the Hosyers' of old time in Hosyer lane, near unto Smithfield, are since removed into Cordwayner street, the upper part thereof by Bow Church, and last of all into Birchoverislane by Cornhill: the Shoemakers and Curryars of Cordwaynerstreete, removed the one to S. Martins Le Grand, the other to London wall near unto Moregate, the Founders remain by themselves in Lothebery: Coke, or Pastelars for the more part in Thames street, the other dispersed into divers parts. Poulters of late removed out of the Poultry betwixt the Stocks and great Conduit in Cheap into Grassestreete and S. Nicholas Shambleses: Bowyars, from Bowyerrowe by Ludgate, into divers places, and almost worn out with the Fletcher's: Pater noster bead makers and Text Writers are gone out of Pater Noster Row into Stationers of Paul's Church yard: Patten makers of S. Margaret Pattens lane, clean worn out: labourers every work day are to be found in Cheap about sopar's lane end, horse coursers and Sellars of Oxen, Sheep, Swine, and such like, remain in their old market of Smithfilde etc. That Merchants of all Nations had their Keys and wharfs at this City whereunto they brought their Merchandises before, and in the reign, of Henry the second mine author wrote of his own knowledge to be true, though for the antiquity of the city, he took the common opinion. Also that this city was in his time and afore divided into wards, had yearly Sheriffs, Aldermen, general courts, and assemblies, & such like notes by him set down, in commendation of the citizens (whereof there is no question) he wrote likewise of his own experience, as being borne & brought up amongst them. Thomas Clifford. And concerning Merchandises then thither transported (whereof happily may be some argument) Thomas Clifforde (before Fitz Stephen's time) writing of Edward the Confessor, saith to this effect: King Edward intending to make his Sepulchre at Westminster, for that it was near to the famous city of London and the River of Thames, that brought in all kind of Merchandises, from all parts of the world etc. And William of Malmsberie, William Malmsbery. that lived in the reign of William the first and second, Henry the first, and king Stephen, calleth this a noble City, full of wealthy citizens, frequented with the trade of Merchandises from all parts of the world. Also I read in divers records that of old time no woad was stowed or harboured in this City but all was presently sold in the ships, except by licence purchased of the Sheriffs, till of more latter time, to wit, in the year 1236. Andrew Bokereil being Mayor, by assent of the principal Citizens, the Merchants of Amiens, Nele and Corby, purchased letters ensealed with the common seal of the City, that they when they come, might harborough their woades, and therefore should give the Mayor every year 50. marks starling: and the same year they gave 100 ● towards the conveying of water from Tyburn to this City. Also the Merchants of Normandy made fine for licence to harbour their woads, till it was otherwise provided. In the year 1263. Thomas Fitz Thomas, being Mayor, etc. which proveth that then (as afore) they were here, amongst other nations privileged. It followeth in Fitz Stephen, that the plagues of London in that time were immoderate quaffing among fools, and often casualties by fire. For the first, to wit of quaffing, it continueth as afore, though greatly qualified among the poorer sort not of any holy abstinency, but of mere necessity, Ale and Beer being small, and wines in price above their reach. As for prevention of casualties by fire (the houses in this city being then builded all of timber and covered with thatch of straw or reed) it was long since, thought good policy in our forefathers, wisely to provide, namely in the year of Christ 1189. Lively Constitutions the first of Richard the first, Lively H●rne. Henry Fitzalwine being then Mayor, Lively Clarkenwell. that all men in this city should build their houses of stone up to a certain height, and to cover them with slate, brick or tile: since the which time (thanks be given to God) there hath not happened the like, often consuming and denouring fires in this city as afore. But now in our time in stead of these enormities: others are come in place no less meet to be reform: and first, and namely, Purprestures, Purpresture in and about this city. W. Patten. Cars and Drayes not well governed in this City, dangerous. or in●rochments on the high ways, lanes, and common grounds, in and about this city, whereof a learned & grave citizen hath lately written & exhibited a book (as I hear) to the Mayor and commonalty. Than the number of Carres, Drayes, and Coaches, more than hath been accustomed, the streets and lanes being strengthened, must needs be dangerous, as daily experience proveth. I know that by the good laws and customs of this city, shod carts are forbidden to enter, except upon reasonable causes, (as service of the Prince, or such like) they be tolerated. Also that the fore-horse of every carriage should be lead by hand: but these good orders are not observed. Of old time coaches were not known in this Island, but chariots, or Whirlicotes, and they only used of Princes or great estates, such as had their footmen about them: I read that Richard the second being threatened by the rebels of Kent, road from the Tower of London to the Miles end, L.S. Marry Aborum. and with him his mother in a Wherlicote, Riding in Wherlicotes. the Earls of Buckingham, Kent, Warwick, and Oxford, Sir Thomas Perie, Sir Robert Knowles, the Mayor of London, Sir Auberie de Vere, that bore the kings sword, with other Knights and Esquires attending on horseback. But in the year next following the said King Richard took to wife Anne daughter to the King of Boheme, that first brought hither the riding upon side saddles, Riding in side saddles, that were wont to ride a stride. Riding in Coaches. and so was the riding in Wherlicoates and chariots forsaken, except at coronations and such like spectacles: but now of late years the use of coaches is taken up, and made so common, as there is neither distinction of time, nor difference of persons observed. Last of all mine Author in this Chapter hath these words: Most part of the Bishops, W. Fitz Stephen. Abbots, and great Lords of the land, as if they were Citizens & free men of London, had many fair houses to resort unto, and many rich and wealth gentlemen spent their money there. And in an other place he hath these words: Every Sunday in Lent a fresh company of young men comes into the fields on horseback, and the best horsemen conducteth the rest: then march forth the Citizens sons, and other young men with disarmed lances and shields, & practise feats of war: many Courtiers likewise and attendants of noble men repair to this exercise, & whilst the hope of victory doth inflame their minds, they do show good proof how serviceable they would be in martial affairs etc. Again he saith: This City in the troublesome time of King Stephen showed at a muster 20000. armed horsemen, and 40000. footmen, serviceable for the wars. etc. All which sayings of the said Author well considered, do plainly prove, that in those days, the inhabitants & repairers to this City of what estate soever, spiritual or temporal, having houses here, lived together in good amity, every man observing the customs and order of the City, and chose to be contributary to charges here, rather than in any part of the land wheresoever: This city being the heart of the Realm, the kings chamber, and Prince's seat whereunto they made repair, and showed their forces, both of horses and of men, which caused in troublesome time (as of king Stephen) the Musters of this City to be so great in number. The causes of great shows and musters in this city of old time, more than of late. And here to touch somewhat of the great families and households kept in former times I read that in the 36. of Henry the sixth, the great estates being called up to London, the Earl of Salesbury came with 500 men on horseback, and was lodged in the Herber: Richard Duke of York with 400. men lodged at Baynard's Castle: the Dukes of Excester, and Somerset with 800. men. The Earl of Northumberland, the Lord Egremonte, and the Lord Clifford with 1500. men. Richard Nevell Earl Nevil Earl of Warwick. R. Fabian manuscript. of Warwick with 600. men, all in red jackets, embroidered with ragged staves before and behind, and was lodged in Warwick lane: in whose house there was oftentimes ●ixe Oxen eaten at a breakfast, and every Tavern was full of his meat, for he that had any acquaintance in that house, might have there so much of sodden and roast meat, as he could prick and carry upon a long dagger. Nicholas West Bishop of Ely Liber Ely. West Bish. of Ely. in the year 1532. kept continually in his house, an hundred servants giving to the one half of them 53. ●. four pence the piece yearly: to the other half each 40. ●. the piece: to every one for his winter gown, four yards of broad cloth, and for his summer coat three yards and a half: he daily gave at his gates besides bread and drink, warm meat to two hundred poor people. The house keeping of Edward late Earl of Derby Earl of Derby is not to be forgotten who had 220. men in Check roll: his feeding aged persons, twice every day sixty and odd, besides all comers thrice a week, and every good Friday 2700. with meat drink and money. Thomas Audley Tho. L. Audley Lord Chancellor, his family of gentlemen, before him in coats guarded with Velvet, and chains of Gold: his yeomen after him in the same livery not guarded. William Powlet Lord great master, Marquis of Winchester, kept the like number of Gentlemen and yeomen in a livery of Reding Tawny. Thomas Lord Cromwell Earl of Essex kept the like or greater number in a livery of grey marble, etc. the gentlemen guarded with Velvet, and the yeoman's with the same cloth. These, as all other of those times gave great relief to the poor, and I have often seen at that Lord Cromwel's gate, more than two hundred persons served twice every day with bread, meat, and drink. Edward Duke of Somerset Edw. Duke of Somerset. was not inferior in keeping a number of tall Gentlemen and yeomen. These (I say) and all other men of honour and worship then lodging in this City, or within the liberties thereof, did without grudging, bear their part of charges with the Citizens, according to their estimated estates, without the which, those musters of old time could not have been so great. And thus I end touching usual Orders and Customs of this city. Sports and pastimes of old time used in this City. LEt us now saith (Fitz Stephen) come to the sports and pastimes, Of sports and pastimes in this City every thing hath his time, a time to weep a time to laugh, a time to mourn, & a time to dance. Eccles. 3. seeing it is fit that a city should not only be commodious and serious, but also merry and sportful: whereupon in the seals of the Popes, until the time of Pope Leo, on the one side was Saint Peter; fishing with a key over him, reached as it were by the hand of God out of heaven, and about it this verse. Tu pro me navem liquisti, ●uscipe clavem. And on the other side was a city, and this inscription on it, Aurea Roma. Likewise to the praise of Augustus Cesar, and the city, in respect of the shows and sports was written, Nocte pluit tota redeunt spectacula mane, etc. All night it raynes, and shows at morrowtide return again. And Cesar with almighty jove hath matched any equal reign. But London for the shows upon theatres, & Comical pastimes, hath holy plays representations of miracles, Stage plays. which holy confessors have wrought, or representations of torments wherein the constancy of Martyrs appeared. Every year also at Shrovetuseday (that we may begin with children's sports, seeing we all have been children) the school boys do bring cocks of the game to their Master, and all the forenoon they delight themselves in cockfighting: Cock fight. after dinner all the youths go into the fields, to play at the ball. Ball play. The scholars of every school have their ball (or bastion) in their hands: the ancient and wealth men of the City come forth on horseback to see the sport of the young men, and to take part of the pleasure in beholding their agility. Every Friday in Lent a fresh company of young men comes into the field on horseback, Exercise of war like feats on horseback with disarmed lances. and the best horsemen conducteth the rest. Than march forth the citizens sons, and other young men with disarmed lances and shields, and there they practise feats of war. Many Courtiers likewise when the king byeth near, and attendants of noble men do repair to these exercises, and while the hope of victory doth inflame their minds, do show good proof how serviceable they would be in martial affairs. In Easter holidays they fight battles on the water, Battles on water. a shield is hanged upon a pole, fixed in the midst of the stream, a boat is prepared without oars to be carried by violence of the water, and in the ●ore part thereof standeth a young man, ready to give charge upon the shield with his lance: if so be he breaketh his lance against the shield, and doth not fall, he is thought to have performed a worthy deed. If so be (without breaking his lance, he runneth strongly against the shield, down he falleth into the water, for the boat is violently forced with the tide, but on each side of the shield ride two boats furnished with young men, which recover him that falleth as soon as they may, Upon the bridge, wharfs, and houses, by the rivers side, stand great numbers to see, and laugh thereat. In the holy days all summer the youths are exercised in leaping, dancing, shooting, wrestling, Leaping, dancing, shooting wrestling, casting the stone, and practising their shields: the maidens trip it with their tyrants, and dance Dancing. as long as they can well see. In winter every holy day before dinner, the Boars prepared for brawn are set to fight, Fight of Boars, baiting of Bears and Bulls. or else Bulls and Bears are baited. When the great fen or Moor (which watereth the walls of the city on the North side) is frozen, many young men play upon the ice, The Moore field when there was no ditch by the wall of the City sliding on the ice. some striding as wide as they may, do slide swiftly: others make themselves seats of ice, as great as millstones: one sits down, many hand in hand do draw him, and one slipping on a sudden, all fall together: some tie bones to their feet, and under their heels, and shoving themselves by a little picked staff, do slide as swiftly as a bird flieth in the air, or an arrow out of a crossbow. Sometime two run together with poles, and hitting one the other, either one or both do fall, not without hurt: some break their arms, some their legs, but youth desirous of glory, in this sort exerciseth itself against the time of war: Many of the citizens do delight themselves in Hawks, and hounds, Hawking and hunting. for they have liberty of hunting in Middlesex, Hartfordshire, all Chiltron, and in Kent to the water of Cray. Thus far Fitz-Stephen of sports. These, or the like exercises have been continued till our time, namely in stage plays, A Stage play continued. whereof ye may read in Anno 1391. a play to be played by the parish clerk of London at the Skinners well besides Smithfield: which play continued three days together, A stage play that lasted eight days. the King, Queen, and Nobles of the realm being present. And of another, played in the year 1409. which lasted eight days, and was of matter from the creation of the world, whereat was present most part of the nobility, and gentry of England etc. Of late time in place of those Stage plays, hath been used Comedies, Tragedies, interludes, and histories, both true and feigned: For the acting whereof certain public places, as the Theatre, the Curtain, Theatre and Curtain for Comedies & other shows Cock fight. etc. have been erected. Also cocks of the game are yet cherished by divers men for their pleasures, much money being laid on their heads, when they fight in pits, whereof some be costly made for that purpose. The Ball is used by noble men and gentlemen in Tennis courts, The ball at Tennis play and by people of meaner sort in the open fields, and streets. The youths of this city time out of mind, have left off to practise the disarmed lance, & shield on horseback in the fields, but I have seen some few upon the River of Thames rowed in boats, with staves flat at the fore●end, running one against another, and for the most part either one, or both overthrown and well ducked. On the holidays in summer the youths of this City, have in the fields exercised themselves in leaping, dancing, shooting, wrestling, Leaping, dancing, shooting wrestling, etc. casting of the stone or Ball etc. And for defence and use of the weapon, there is a special profession of men that teach it. Ye may read in mine Annalles, how that in the year 1222. the citizens kept games of defence, Games of defence. and wrestle near unto the Hospital of Saint Giles in the field, where they challenged, and had the mastery of the men in the suburbs, and other comers etc. Also in the year 1453. of a tumult made against the Mayor, at the wrestling besides Clerks well etc. which is sufficient to prove that of old time the exercising of wrestling, and such like hath been much more used then of latter years. The youths of this city, also have used on holy days after evening prayer, at their masters doors, to exercise their wasters and bucklers: Playing at the Bucklers. and the maidens (one of them playing on a Timbrel) in sight of their masters Dancing for garlands in the streets. and Dames to dance for garlands hanged thwart the streets, which open pastimes in my youth, being now suppressed: worse practises within doors are to be feared: as for the baiting of Bulls and Bears, they are till this day much frequented. Sliding upon the Ice is now but children's play: but in hawking and hunting many grave citizens, at this present have great delight, and do rather want leisure then good will to follow it. Of triumphant shows Matthew Paris. Shows for triumphs. made by the citizens of London, ye may read in the year 1236. the 20. of Henry the third, Andrew Bockwell then being Mayor, how Helianor daughter to Reymonde earl of Prouance, riding through the city towards Westminster, there to be crowned Queen of England, the city was adorned with silks, & in the night with lamps, cressets, and other lights, without number, besides many pageants, and strange devices there presented, the citizens also road The citizen's road. to meet the King & Queen clothed in long garments embroidered Embroidered garment about with gold, and silks of divers colours, their horses gallantly trapped to the number of 360. every man bearing a cup of gold or silver in his hand, and the king's trumpeters sounding before them: These citizens did minister wine, as Bottelers, which is their service at the coronation. Moore in the year 1298. for victory obtained by Edward the first against the Scots, every citizen according to their several trade, mate their several show, but specially the Fishmongers, Fishmonger's procession, for triumph of victory, against the Scots, more than a thousand horsemen. which in a solemn procession, passed through the city, having amongst other Pageants and shows, four Sturgeons guilt, carried on four horses: then four Salmon of silver on four horses, & after them six and forty armed Knights riding on horses, made like luces of the sea, and then one representing S. Magnus (because it was on S. Magnus' day) with a thousand horsemen etc. Of one other show ye may read in the year 1377. A show by torch sight, being a Momme●●e, of more than 100 horses. made by the citizens for disport of the young prince Richard, son to the black prince, and thus it followeth. On the sunday before candlemas in the night, 130. citizens disguised, and well horsed in a mummery with sound of trumpets, shackbuts, cornets, Shawms, and other minstrels, and innumerable torch lights of Wax, road from Newgate through Cheap over the bridge, through Southwark, and so to Kennington besides Lambhith, where the young Prince remained with his mother, and the Duke of Lancaster, his uncle, the carls of Cambrldge, Hertford, Warwick, and Suffolk, with divers other Lords. In the first rank did ride 48. in the likeness and habit of Esquires, two and two together clothed in red coats and gowns of Say, or sandal, with comely visors on their faces: after them came riding 48. knights in the same liucrie, of colour and stuff: Than followed one richly arrayed like an Emperor, and after him some distance, one stately tired like a Pope, whom followed 24. Cardinals, and after them eight or ten with black visors not amiable, as if they had been Legates from some foreign Princes. These maskers, after they had entered the Manor of Kenington, alighted from their horses and entered the hall on foot: which done, the Prince, his mother, and the Lords came out of the chamber into the hall, whom the said mummers did salute, showing by a pair of dice upon the table their desire to play with the Prince, which they so handled, that the Prince did always win when be cast them. Than the mummers set to the prince three jewels, The prince did win three jewels of the Maskers. one after another, which were a bowl of gold, a cup of gold, and a ring of gold, which the Prince wan at three casts. Than they set to the Prince's mother, the Duke, the Earls, and other Lords, to every one a ring of gold, which they also did win: After which they were feasted, and the music sounded, the prince and Lords danced on the one part with the mummers, which did also dance, which jollity being ended, they were again made to drink, and then departed in order as they came. Thus much for sportful shows in triumphs may suffice: of other shows for sports and pastimes yearly used, first at Christmas, there was in the kings house wheresoever he was lodged, a Lord of misrule, I. of misrule at Christmas. or master of merry disporters, and the like had ye in the house of every noble man, of honour, or good worship, were he spiritual, or temporal. Amongst the which the Mayor of London, and either of the sheriffs had their several Lords of Misrule, ever contending without quarrel or offence, who should make the rarest pastimes to delight the beholders. These lords beginning their rule on Alhollon Eve, continued the same till the morrow after the Feast of the Purification, commonly called Candlemas day: In all which space there were fine and subtle disguisings, Masks, and Mummeries, with playing at Cards, for Counters, Nails, and points, more for pastimes then for gain. In the week before Easter had ye great shows made for the fetching in of a twisted Tree, Twisted trees ●e● from the woods. or With, as they termed it, out of the woods into the kings house, and the like into every man's house of honour or worship. In the month of May, May games. namely on May day in the morning, every man (except impediment) would walk into the sweet meadows and green woods, there to rejoice their spirits with the beauty and savour of sweet flowers, and with the noise of birds, praising God in their kind and for more notable example hereof Edward Hall, Edward Hall. hath noted, that K. Henry the eight in the seventh of his reign on May day in the Morning with Queen Katheren his wife, accompanied with many Lords and Ladies, road a Maying from Greenwich to the high ground of Shooter's hill, where (as they passed by the way) they espied acompanie of tall yeomen clothed all in green, with green hoods, and with bows and arrows to the manber of 200. One being their Chieftain was called Robin Hood, who required the king and his company, to stay & see his men shoot whereunto the king granting, Robin Hood Robin Hood and his men shot before the king. whistled● and all the 200. Archers shot of, losing all at once, and when he whistled again they likewise shot again, their arrows whistled by craft of the head, so that the noise was strange and loud, which greatly delighted the king and Queen and their Company. Moreover this Robin Hood desired the King and Queen with their retinue to enter the green wood, where, in harbours made of boughs and decked with flowers, they were set and served plentifully with venison and wine, by Robin Hood and his meinie, to their great contentment, and had other pageants and Pastimes as ye may read in my said Author. I found also that in the month of May, the Citizens of London, of all estates, lightly in every parish, or sometimes two or three parishes joining together, had their several mayings, and did fetch in Maypoles, with divers warlike shows, with good Archers, Morris dancers, and other devices for pastime all the day long, and towards the evening they had stage plays and bonfires in the streets, of these mayings, we read in the reign of Henry the 6. that the Aldermen and Shiriffs of London being on May day at the Bishop Bishop's wood Bishop's hall by Blethenhal green. of London's wood in the parish of Stebunheath, and having there a worshipful dinner for themselves and other comers, Lydgate, the Poet that was a Monk of Bray, sent to them by a Pursuivant a joyful commendation of that season containing 16. staves in metre Royal, beginning thus. Mighty Flora, Goddess of fresh flowers, which clothed hath the soil in lusty green. Made buds spring, with her sweet showers, by influence of the Sun shine. To do pleasance The pleasant month of May commended. of intent full clean, unto the States which now sit here. Hath Vere down sent her own daughter dear. Making the virtue, that dured in the root. Called of Clerks, the virtue vegetable. for to trascend, most wholesome and most soot. Into the Crop, this season so agreeable, the ba●my libuor, is so commendable. Thar it rejoiceth, with his fresh moisture, man, beast, and fowl, and every creature: etc. These great mayings and May-games made by the governors and masters of this City, with the triumphant setting up of the great shaft, (a principal Maypole in Cornhill, before the parish Church of S. Andrew) therefore called Undershafte, by mean of an insurrection of youths, against Alianes on May day, 1517. the ninth of Henry the eight, have not been so freely used as afore. And therefore to speak of watches Watches in the night commanded. and shows in the nights: First I read that in the year of Christ, 1253. watches in Cities and Borough towns were commanded by king Henry the third, for the better observing of peace and quietness amongst his people: And farther by the advice of them of Savoy: he ordained that if any man chanced to be rob, or by any means damnifled, by any thief or robber, he to whom the charge of keeping that country, Citi● or Borough chiefly appertained where the robbery was done, should competently restore the loss: And this was after the use of Savoy, but yet thought more hard to be observed, here, then in those parts: and therefore leaving those laborious watches, I will speak of our pleasures and pastimes in watching by night. In the months of june, and july, on the Uigiles or Festival days, and on the same Festival days in the evenings, after the Sun setting, there were usually made Bonfires in the streets, Bonfires and banqueting in the streets. every man bestowing wood or labour towards them: the wealthier sort also before their doors near to the said Bonfires would, set out tables on the Uigiles furnished with sweet bread, and good drink, and on the Festival days with meats and drinks plentifully, whereunto they would invite their neighbours and Passengers also to sit, and be merry with them in great familiarity, praising God for his benefits bestowed on them: These were called Bonfires aswell of good amity amongst neighbours that being before at controversy, (were there by the labour of others) ● reconciled, and made of bitter enemies, loving friends: as also for the verive that a great firehath to purge the infection of the air. On the vigils of S. john Baptist, Watches at Midsummer. and of S. Peter, and Paul the Apostles, besides the standing watches all in bright harness in every ward, and street of this City, there was also a marching watch, that passed through the principal streets thereof, to wit from the little Conduit by Paul's gate through west Cheap, by the Stocks, through Cornhill, by Leaden hall to Aldegate, then back down Fenchurchstreete, by Grass church, about Grass church Conduit, and up Grass church street into Cornhill, and through it into west Cheap, again, and so broke up, the whole way ordered for this marching watch, extended to 3200. tailors yards of assize, for the furniture whereof with lights there were appointed 700. Cressetes, 500 of them being found by the Companies, the other 200. by the Chamber of London? beside the which lights every Constable in London) in number more than 240. had his Cresset: the charge of every Cresset was in light two shillings four pence, and every Cresset had two men, one to bear or hold it, an other to bear a bag with light, and to serve it, so that the poor men pertaining to the Cressets, taking wages, besides that every one had a straw hat, with a badge painted, and his breakfast amounted in number to almost 2000 The marching watch contained in number about 2000 men, part of them being old soldiers, of skill to be captains, Lieutenants, sergeants, Corporals, etc. Wiflers, Drommers, and mischiefs, Standard and Ensign bearers, Sword players, Trompiters' on Horseback, demilances on great horses, Gunners with hand Guns, or half hakes Archers in coats of white sustian signed on the breast and back with the arms of the city, their bows bend in their hands, with sheaves of arrows by their sides, Pike men in bright corselets, Burganets, etc. Holbarders, like the Billmen, in Almain Rivetes, and Aperns of Mail in great number, there were also divers pageants, Morris dancers, Constables the one half (which was 120. on S. john's Eve, the other half on S. Peter's Eve in bright harness some overgilte, and every one a jornet of Scarlet thereupon, and his henchman following him, his minstrels before him, and his cresset light passing by him, the Waits of the city, the Mayor's Officers, for his guard before him, all in a Livery of wolsted or Say jacquetes party coloured, the Mayor himself well mounted on horseback, the Sword bearer before him in fair Armour well mounted also, the Mayor's footmen, and the like Torch bearers about him, Hench men twain, upon great stirring horses following him. The sheriffs watches came one after the other in like order, but not so large in number as the Mayors: for where the Mayor had beside his Giant three pageants, each of the sheriffs had beside their Giants but two Pageants, each their Morris Dance, and one henchman, their Officers in jacquetes of wolsted, or Say, party coloured, differing from the Mayors and each from other, but having harnessed men a great many, etc. This Midsummer watch was thus accustomed yearly, time out of mind, until the year 1539. the 31. of Henry the 8. in which year on the eight of May, a great muster was made by the Citizens, at the Miles end, all in bright harness, with coats of white silk, A great muster at London. or cloth, and chains of gold, in three great battles, to the number of 15000. which passed through London to Westminster, and so through the Sanctuary, and round about the Park of S. james, and returned home through Oldbourne. King Henry then considering the great charges of the Citizens for the furniture of this unusual Muster, forbade the marching watch provided for, at Midsummer, for that year, which being once laid down, was not raised again till the year 1548. the second of Edward the sixth, Sir john Gresham, then being Mayor, who caused the marching watch, both on the Eve of S. john Baptist, and of S. Peter the Apostle, to be revived and set forth, in as comely order as it had been accustomed, which watch was also beautified by the number of more than 300. Dem●lances, and light horsemen, prepared by the Citizens to be sent into Scotland for the rescue of the town of Hadington, and others kept by the English men, since this majors time, the like marching watch in this City hath not been used, though some attempts have been made thereunto, as in the year 1585. john Mountgomery. a book was drawn by a grave Citizen, & by him dedicated to Sir Thomas Pullison, than Lord Maior and his Brethrens the Aldermen: containing the manner and order of a marching watch in the city upon the evens accustomed, in commendation whereof (namely in time of peace to be used) he hath words to this effect. The Artificers of sundry sorts were thereby well set a work, none but rich men charged: poor men helped: old Soldiers, Tr●mpiters, Drommers, mischiefs, and ensign bearers, with such like men, meet for Prince's service kept in ure, wherein the safety and defence of every common weal consisteth. Armour and Weapon being yearly occupied in this wise: the Citizens had of their own readily prepared for any need, whereas by intermission hereof, Armourers are out of work, Soldiers out of ure, weapons overgrown with foulness, few or none good being provided. etc. In the month of August about the feast of S. Bartholomew the Apostle, before the Lord Mayor, aldermans, and sheriffs of London placed in a large Tent near unto Clarken well, of old time were divers days spent in the pastime of wrestling, where the Officers of the City: namely the sheriffs, Sergeants and Yeomen, the Portars of the kings beam, or weigh house, and other of the City were challengers of all men, in the suburbs ●to wrestle for games appointed: and on other days, before the said Mayor, Aldermen and sheriffs, in Fensbery field, to shoot the Standard, broad arrow, and flight, for games: but now of late years the wrestling is only practised on Bartilmew day in the after noon, and the shooting some three or four days after, in one after noon and no more. What should I speak of the ancient daily exercises in the long bow by Citizens of this city, now almost clean left of and forsaken. I over pass it: for by the mean of closing in the common grounds, our Archers for want of room to shoot abroad, creep into bowling Allies, and ordinary dicing houses, nearer home, where they have room enough to hazard their money at unlawful games: where I leave them to take their pleasures. Honour of Citizens, and worthiness of men in the same. THis City (saith Fitzstephen) is glorious in manhood: furnished with munitions: populous with inhabitants, insomuch that in the troublesome time of king Stephen, it hath showed at a mu●●er twenty thousand armed horsemen, and threescore thousand footmen, serviceable for the wars. Moreover saith he, the Citizens of London, The modest matrons that have been and aught to be. wheresoever they become, are notable before all other Citizens in civility of manners, attire, table, & talk. The matrons of this city are the very modest Sabine Ladies of Italy. The Londoners sometime called Trinobantes, repelled Cesar, Worthiness of men Citizens of London. which always made his passage by shedding blood, whereupon Lucan song. Territa quaesitis ostendit terga Britannis. The city of London hath bred some, which have subdued many kingdoms, and also the Roman Empire. It hath also brought forth many others, whom virtue and valour hath highly advanced, according to Apollo, in his Oracle to Brute, sub occas●i solis: etc. In the time of christianity, it brought forth that noble Emperor Constantine, Constantine the Emperor borne in London. which gave the city of Rome and all the imperial ensigns to God, S. Peter and Pope Silvester: choosing rather to be called a defender of the church, than an Emperor: and lest peace might be violated, and their eyes troubled by his presence, he retired from Rome, and built the city of Constantinople. London also in late time hath brought forth famous kings: Maude the Empress, king Henry, son to Henry the second etc. thus far Fitzstephen: whereunto may be added innumerable persons of honour, borne in London, and actions done by worthy citizens, Honourable actions done by the worthy Citizens. whereof I will only note a few best known to the commonalty. In the year, 1216. the Londoners: sending out a Navy, took 65. ships of Pirates and sea robbers: besides innumerable others that they drowned, which had rob on the river of Thames. In the year 1235. Walter Brune, Walter Brune a Citizen of London, and Rosia his wife founded the Hospital of our Lady, called S. Marry the Spittle without B●shopsgate of London, a house of such relief to the needy, that there was found standing at the suppression thereof, ninescore beds well furnished for receipt of poor people. In the year 1247. Simon Fitzmary, Simon Fitz-marie. one of the sheriffs of London, founded the Hospital of S. Marie called Bethleme, also without Bishopsgate. In the year 1283. Henry Wallice, Henry Wallice maior. than Mayor, builded the Tun upon Cornhill, to be a prison for night walkers, and a market house called the Stocks, both for fish and flesh, standing in the midst of the City. In the year 1332, William Elsing Mercer of London, founded Elsing spittle Elsing Spittle for 100 poor blind men. within Cripplegate, for sustentation of 100 poor blind men, & became himself the first Prior of that Hospital, In the year 1363. Patent record. Henry Picad Henry Picard Mayor of London feasted four King in one day. s. sometime Mayor, in one day royally feasted Edward the third, king of England, john king of France, David king of Scots, the king of Cypress, (then arrived in England) Edward Prince of Wales, with many other noble men, and after kept his hall for all comers that were willing to play at Dice, and hazard. In like manner the Lady Margaret his wife, kept her Chamber to the same intent etc. In the year 1378. john Filpot john Filpot. a most● famous Citizen. sometime Mayor, hired with his own money, 1000 Soldiers, and defended the Realm from the incursions of the enemy, so that in a small time his hired men took john Mercer, a sea-rover, with all his Ships, which he before had taken from Scarberow, and fifteen Spanish ships laden with great riches. In the year 1380. Thomas of Wodstocke, Thomas Percy, Henry Calueley, Robert Knowles, and others, being sent with a great power to aid the Duke of Britain, the said john Filpot hired ships for them of his own charges, and released the Armour, which the soldiers had pawned for their victuals, more than 1000 in number. This most noble Citizen (saith Thomas Walsingham) Thomas Wal●singham. that had traveled for the commodity of the whole Realm, more than all other of his time, had often relieved the king, by lending him great sums of money, and otherwise, deceased in anno 1384. after that he had assured Lands to the City for the relief of 13. poor people for ever. In the year 1381. William Walworth William Walworthes Valiantie. then Mayor a most provident, valiant and learned Citizen, did by his arrest made upon Wat● Tylar (a presumptuous Rebel, upon whom no man durst lay hands) deliver the king and kingdom from the danger of most wicked Traitors, and was for his service knighted in the field. William Walworth and other knighted in the field. Nicholas Brembar, john Filpot, Robert Land, Nicholas Twiforde, and Adam Francis, aldermans were then for their service likewise knighted, and Sir Robert Knoles, for assisting of the Mayor was made free of this City. This Sir Roberte Knoles Robert Knoles. thus worthily enfranchised a Citizen, founded a College with an Hospital at Pontfract, and he also builded the great stone bridge at Rochester, over the river of Medway, etc. In the year 1391. Adam Bamne Adam Bamne. Mayor, in a great dearth procured corn from parts beyond the seas, to be brought to London in such abundance as sufficed to serve the City, and the Countries near adjoining, to the furtherance of which good work, he took out of the Orphans chest in the Guildehall, 2000 Marks to buy the said corn and each Alderman laid out 20. ●. to the like purpose. In the year 1415. Thomas Falconer Thomas Fauconer. Maior, lent to king Henry the fift towards the maintenance of his wars in France, 10000 Record. Marks upon jewels. In the year 1420. Richard Whitington Richard Whitington. Maior founded Whitingtons' College for the poor, with divinity lectures to be read there, for ever: He also builded Newgate etc. In the year 1427. john Rinwell john Reinwel Maior gave to discharge certain wards of London, from fifteens, and other payments. In the year 1432. john Wells john Wels. Mayor conveyed fresh water from Teyborne to the Standardei● west Cheap for service of the City. In the year 1438. William Eastfielde Maior, conveyed water to the Conduit in Fleetstreet to Aldermanberry, and to Criplesgate. In the year 1439. Stephen Brown Stephen Browne. Mayor sent into Prussia, and caused corn to be brought thence to London in great quan titie, whereby he brought down the prize of wheat from iij. ●. the Bushel, to less than half that money. In the year 1446. Simon Eyre Simon Eyre Maior, builded the Leaden hall, for a common Grayner of corn to the use of this City, and left 5000. marks to be bestowed in charitable actions for relief of the poor. In the year 1471. john Stocton Maior, and 11. Aldermen of London, with the Recorder were all made knights in the field, by Edward the fourth, for their good service done unto him. In the year 1483. Edmond Shaa Edmond Shaa Maior, builded Criplesgate. In the year 1491. Hugh Clopton Hugh Clopton. Maior, builded the great stone arched bridge at Stratford upon Auon. In the year 1494. Robert Fabyan, Robert Fabian laboured and spent his time and goods in writing for posterities. Alderman and one of the sheriffs gathered out of divers good Authors, aswell Latin as French, a large chronicle of England and France, which he published in English to his great charges, for the honour of this city, and common utility of the whole Realm. In the year 1554, Sir Thomas White Sir Thomas White. Mayor founded S. john's College in Oxford, and gave great sums of money to divers Towns in England for relief of the poor. In the year 1566. Sir Thomas Gresham Sir Thomas Gresham. Mercer, builded that stately Exchange Royal in London, and left his dwelling house in Bishopsgate street, to be a college of readings &c. as in my summary. About the year 1570. Margaret Dan, Margaret Dan widow to William Dan, late one of the Sheriffs of London gave by her testament more than 2000 pound to charitable actions. Also about the year 1577. Dame Mary Ramsey Lady Mary Ramsey. wife to Sir Thomas Ramsey Mayor, being seized of lands in fee simple of her inheritance to the yearly value of 243. pound, by his consent gave the same to Christ's Hospital in London, towards relief of poor children there, and otherwise, as in my summary and abridgement I have expressed, and as farith by monuments erected in Christ's Hospital: which gift she afterward in her widowhood confirmed, and greatly augmented. In the year 1577. William Lamb william Lamb Clothworker builded a water Conduit at Oldbourne Cross, to his charge of 1500. ●. and did many other charitable acts, as in my summary. In the year 1582. john Haydon john Haydon. Alderman, gave large Legacies, and more than 3000. ●. for relief to the poor. In the year 1583. Barnalde Randulph, Barnalde Randulph. common Sergeant of London, gave and delivered with his hand 906. ●. towards the building of water Conduits, which was performed. Moreover he gave by his Testament 1000 ●. to be employed in deeds of charity, but that money being left in holdfast hands, I have not heard how it was bestowed. Thus much for the worthiness of Citiizens in this City, touching whom john Lydgate john Lidgate. a Monk of Bury, in the reign of Henry the sixth made (amongst other) these verses following. Of Seven things I praise the City. Of true meaning and faithful observance. Of righteousness, truth, and equity. Of Stableness ay kept in Legiance. And for of virtue, thou hast suffisance, In this land here, and other londs all, The kings Chamber, of Custom men thee call. Having thus in generality handled the original, the walls, gates, ditches, and fresh waters, the bridges, towers and castles the schools, of learning, and houses of law, the orders and customs, sports and pastimes, watchings and martial exercises, and lastly the honour and worthiness of the Citizens: I am now to set down, the distribution of this City into parts: and more especially to declare the antiquities: note worthy in every of the same: and how both the whole and parts, have been from time to time ruled and governed. THe Ancient division of this City, was into Wards, or Aldermanries': and therefore I will begin at the East, and so proceed through the high and most principal street of the city, to the west, The Cite of London divided from east to west. after this manner. First through Aldgate street, to the west corner of S. Andrew's Church called Undershaft, on the right hand, and Lymestreete corner, on the left, all which is of Aldgate ward: from thence through Cornhill street, to the west corner of Leaden hall, all which is of Limestreete ward: from thence leaving the street, that leadeth to Bishopsgate on the right hand, and the way that leadeth into Grass street on the left, still through Cornhill street, by the Conduit to the west corner against the Stocks, all which is in Cornhill ward, then by the said Stocks (a market place both of fish and flesh standing in the midst of the City) The stocks market the midst of the City. through the Poultry, (a street so called) to the great conduit in west Cheap, and so through Cheap, to the Standard, which is of Cheap ward, except on the South side from Bow lane, to the said Standard, which is of Cordwainer street ward. Than by the Standard to the great cross which is in Cripplegate ward, on the North side, and in Breadstreet ward on the south side. And to the little conduit by Paul's gate from whence of old time, the said high street stretched strait to Ludgate, all in the ward of Faringdon within, then divided truly from East to West, but since that by means of the burning of Paul's Church which was in the reign of William the first surnamed Conqueror. Mawricius then Bishop of London, laid the foundation of a new church, so far in largeness exceeding the old, that the way towards Ludgate was thereby greatly straightened, as before I have at large discoursed: Now from the North to the South, The City de●uided from North to South. this city was of old time divided not by a large high way or street, as from East to West, but by a fair Brook of sweet water, which came from out the North fields through the wall, and midst of the city into the river of Thames, which division is till this day constantly and without change maintained. This water was called (as I have said) Walbrooke, The course Walbrooke of running through, & from the wall the course whereof to prosecute it particularly, was and is from the said wall to S. Margaret's church, in Lothberry: from thence beneath the lower part of the Grocer's hall, about the east part of their Kitchen, under S. Mildredes church, somewhat west from the said Stocks market: from thence through Buckels berry, by one great house builded of stone and timber, called the old Barge. because Barges out of the river of Thames were rowed up so far into this Brook: on the backside of the houses in Walbrooke street (which street taketh his name of the said Brook:) by the west end of S. john's church upon Walbrooke, under Horshew Bridge, by the west side of Tallow Chandler's hall, and of the Skinner's hall, and so behind the other houses, to Elbow Lane, and by a part thereof down Greenwich lane, into the River of Thames. This is the course of Walbrooke, which was of old time bridged over in divers places, for passage of horses and men, as need required: but since by means of encrochment on the banks thereof, the channel being greatly straightened, and other noyances done thereunto, at length the same by common consent was Arched over with brick, and pa●ed with stone, equal with the ground, where through it passed, and is now in most places builded upon, that no man may by the eye discern it, and therefore the trace thereof is hardly known, to the common people. The City thus divided from East to West, and from North to South: I am further to show how the same was of old time broken into divers parts called wards, whereof Fitzstephen more than four hundred years ago writeth thus. This City (sayeth he) even as Rome, is divided into wards, it hath yearly sheriffs in stead of Consuls. It hath the dignity of Senators in Aldermen etc. The number of these wards in London were both before & in the reign of Henry the third: 24. in all: whereof 13 lay on the East side of the said Walbrooke, and 11. on the West side of the same: notwithstanding these 11. Patent Record. grew much more larger and bigger than these on the East, and therefore in the year of Christ, 1393. the 17. of Richard the second, Farengdon ward which was then one entire ward, but mightily increased of buildings without the gates: was by Parliament appointed to be divided into twain, and to have two Aldermen, to wit Faringdon within and Faringdon without, which made up the number of 12. wards on the west side of Walbrooke, and so the whole number of 25. on both sides: moreover in the year 1550. the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens of London, purchasing the Liberties of the Borough of Southwark, appointed the same to be a ward of London, and so became the number of 13. wards on the East, 12. on the West, and one in the South of the river of Thames, lying in the said Borough of Southwark, within the county of Surrey, which in all arise to the number of 26. wards and 26. Aldermen of London. The names of Wards on the East part of Walbrooke are these. 1 Portsoken ward without the walls. 2 Towerstreete ward. 3 Ealdegate ward. 4 Lymestreete ward. 5 Bishopsgate ward within the walls and without. 6 Breadstreet ward. 7 Cornhill ward. 8 Langbourne ward 9 Billingsgate ward 10 Bridge ward within. 11 Candlewicke street ward. 12 Walbrooke ward. 13 Downgate ward. The Wards on the west side of Walbrooke are these. 14 Vintry ward. 15 Cordwainer street ward. 16 Cheap ward. 17 Colemanstreete ward. 18 Bassinges hall ward. 19 Criplesgate ward. within and without. 20 Aldersgate ward within and without. 21 Faringdon ward within. 22 Breadstreet ward. 23 Queen heath ward 24 Castle Baynarde ward. 25 Faringdon ward without. 26 The Bridge ward without, in the Brugh of Southwark. Portsoken Warde. seeing that of every of these Wards: I have to say somewhat: I will begin with Portsoken ward, Portsoken ward. without Ealdgate. This Portsoken, which soundeth as much as the Franchise at the gate, was sometime a Guild, Li●●●r Trinita Knighetn Guild. and had this beginning, as I have read. In the days of king Edgar, more than 600. years since, there were thirteen Knights (or soldiers) well-beloved to the king and realm (for service by them done) which requested to have a certain portion of land on the East part of the City, left desolate, and forsaken, by the inhabitants, by reason of too much servitude. They besought the king to have this land, with the Liberty of a Guild for ever: the king granted to their request with conditions following: that is, that each of them should victoriously accomplish three combats, one above the ground, one under ground, and the third in the water, and after this at a certain day in East Smithfield, they should run with spears against all comers, all which was gloriously performed: and the same day the king named it knighten Guild, Bounds Knighten Guild or Portsok●● ward. and so bounded it, from Ealdgate to the place where the bars now are toward the East, on both the sides of the street, and extended it towards the North, and the gate now since called Bishopsgate, unto the house then of William Presbyter, after of Geoffrey Tannar, and then of the heirs of culver, after that of john Esseby, but since of the Lord Bourchier, etc. And again towards the South unto the River of Thames, and so far into the water, as a horseman entering the same may ride at a low water, and throw his spear: so that all East Smithfielde, with the right part of the street that goeth to Dodding Pond into the Thames, and also the Hospital of S. Katherins, with the Mills, that were founded in king Stephen's days, and the outward stone wall, and the new ditch of the Tower are of the said Fee and Liberty: for the said wall and ditch of the Tower, were made in the time of king Richard, when he was in the holy Land, by William Longshamp Bishop of Ely, as before I have noted unto you. These knights had as then none other Charter, by all the days of Edgar, Ethelred, and Cnutus, until the time of Edward the Confessor, whom the heirs of those knights humbly besought to confirms their Liberties, whereunto he graciously granting, gave them ●● deed thereof, as appeareth in the book of the late house of the holy Trinity, written in the Saxon letter and tongue. Liber Trinitate After this king William the son of William the Conqueror, made a confirmation of the same Liberties, unto the heirs of these knights, in these words. william king of England to Maurice Bishop and Godfrey de Magum, and Richard de Parr, and to his faithful people of London, greeting, know ye me to have granted to the men of Knighten Guild, the Guild that belonged to them, and the Land that belonged thereunto, with all Customs, as they had the same in the time of king Edward, and my Father. Witness Hugh de Buclie: at Rething. After him, king Henry the first confirmed the same by his Charter, to the like effect, the recital whereof, I pretermit for breutties' sake. After which time, the Church of the holy Trinity within Ealdgate Priory of the Trinity within Ealdgate. of London, being founded by Queen Matilde wife to the said Henry, the multitude of Brethrens praising God day and night therein, in short time so increased, that all the City was delighted in the beholding of them: insomuch that in the year 1115. certain burgesses of London, of the progeny of those noble English knights to wit Radulphus Fitzalgod, Wilmarde le Devereshe, Orgare le Prude, Edward Hupcornehill, Blackstanus, Knighten Guild given the Canons of the holy Trinity. and Alwine his kinsman, and Robert his brother, the sons of Leafstanus the Goldsmith, Wizo his son, Hugh Fitzvulgar, Algare Secusme, coming together into the Chapter house of the said church of the Holy Trinity, gave to the same Church and Canons serving God therein, all the Lands and Soak called in English Knighten Guild, which lieth to the wall of the City, without the same gate, and stretcheth to the river of Thames, they gave it, I say, taking upon them the Brotherhood and participation of the benefits of that house by the hands of Prior Norman. And the better to confirm this their grant, they offered upon the Altar there, the Charter of Edward together with the other Charters, which they had thereof: and afterward they did put the foresaid Prior in se●sine thereof, by the Church of S. Buttolphes which is builded thereon, and is the head of that land: These things were thus done, before Barnarde Prior of Dunstable, john Prior of Derland, Geoffrey Glinton Chamberlain, and many other Clarks and lay-men, French & English, Orgar le Prude (one of their Company) was sent to King Henry, beseeching him to confirm their gift, which the king gladly granted● by this deed following. Henry king of England to R. B. of London; to the sheriffs, and Provost, and to all his Barons, and faithful people, French and English, of London Barons of London. and Middlesex, greeting. Know ye me to have granted, and confirmed to the Church and Canons of the Holy Trinity of London, the Soak of the English knighten Guild, and the land which pertaineth thereunto, and the Church of S. Buttolph, as the men of the same Guild have given, and granted unto them: and I will and straightly command that they may hold the same well and honourably and freely, with sack, and soak, Toll, and Thea, infangthese and all customs belonging to it, as the men of the same Guild in best sort had the same in the time of king Edward, and as king William my Father, and brother did grant it to them by their writs. Witness A. the Queen Geoffrey Glinton the Chancellor, and William of Glinton at Wodstocke. All these prescribed writings (saith my book), which sometime belonged to the Priory of the Holy Trinity, are registered in the end of the book of Remembrances of the Guildhall of London, marked with the Letter C. folio ●34. The king sent also his sheriffs to wit, Albert de Vere, and Roger nephew to Hubert which upon his behalf should invest this Church, with the possession hereof● which the said sheriffs accomplished coming upon the ground, Andrew Buchevite, and the forenamed witnesses, and other standing by, notwithstanding Othowerus Acoli●llus Otto, and Geoffrey Earl of Essex, Constables of the Tower, Constables of the Tower. by succession, withheld by force, a portion of the said land as I have before delivered. The Prior and Canons of the Holy Trinity, being thus seized of the said Land and Soak, of Knighten Guild, a part part of Cnitten Guild with held b● the Constables of the Tower. of the Suburb without the wall, (but within the Liberties of the City) the same Prior was for him, and his Successors, admitted as one of the Aldermen of London, to govern the same Land and Soak: according to the Customs of the City, he did sit in Court and road with the Mayor, and his Brethrens the Aldermen, as one of them in Scarlet, or other Livery, as they used until the year 1531. at the which time, the said Priory by the last Prior there, Prior of the Trinity an Alderman of London. was surrendered to king Henry the eight, in the 23. of his reign. Who gave this Priory to Sir Thomas Audley, Knight, Lord Chancellor of England, & he pulled down the church. Sithence the which dissolution of that house, the said Ward of Portsoken, hath been governed by a temporal man one of the Aldermen of London, elected by the Citizens, as be the Aldermen of other wards. Thus much for the out bounds of Cnitten Guild, or Portsoken Warde, and for the antiquity and government thereof. Now of the parts therein, this is specially to be noted. First the East part of the Tower standeth there, than an Hospital of S. Katherine's Hospital of S. Katherine's. founded by Matilde the Queen, wife to king Stephen, by licence of the Prior and Covent of the Holy Trinity in London on whose ground she founded it. Helianor the Queen wife to king Edward the first, appointed there to be a Master, three Brethrens Chaplains, and three Sistars● ten poor women, and six poor Clerks, Queen Philip wife to king Edward the third, founded a Chantry there, and gave to that Hospital x ●. land by year, it was of late time called a free chapel, a college, and an Hospital for poor Sisters. The Choir which of late years was not much inferior to that of Paul's, was dissolved by D. Wilson a late master there, the brethren & Sistars remaining: this house was valued at 315. ●. 14. ●. ij.pences, being now of late years enclosed about (or pestered with small tenements, and homely cottages, having inhabitants, English and strangers, more in number then some City in England. There lie buried in this Church the Countess of Huntingdon, Countess of the March, in her time 1429. john Holland Duke of Excester and Earl of Huntingdon 1447. in a fair tomb on the North side the choir, Thomas Walsingham Esquire, and Thomas Ballarde Esquire by him 1465. Thomas Fleming Knight 1466. On the East and by North of the Tower, lieth Eastsmithfield New Abbey on Eastsmithfield and Tower hill, two plots of ground so called, without the wall of the City, and East from them both was sometime a monastery called new Abbey, founded by King Edward the third, in the year 1359. upon occasion as followeth. In the year 1348. the 23. of Edward the third, the first great pestilence in his time began, and increased so sore, that for want of room in Churchyards to bury the dead of the city, and of the suburbs, one john Corey clerk, procured of Nicholas Prior of the holy Trinity within Ealdegate, one Toft of ground near unto Eastsmithfield, for the burial Burial for the dead, prepared in time of peastilence. of them that died, with condition that it might be called the Church yard of the holy Trinity, which ground he caused by the aid of divers devout citizen to be enclosed with a wall of stone. Robert Elsing son of William Elsing gave five pound thereunto: and the same was dedicated by Ralph Stratford Bishop of London, where innumerable bodies of the dead were afterwards buried, & a chapel built in the same place, to the honour of God: to the which, K. Edward setting his eye (having before in a tempest on the sea and peril of drowning made a vow build a monastery to the honour of God, and our Lady of grace, if God would grant him grace, to come safe to land) builded there a monastery, placing an Abbot, and monks of the Cistercian (or white) order. The bounds of this plot of ground together with a decree for Tithes thereof, are expressed in the Charter, the effect whereof I have set down in an other place. This house at the late general suppression was valued at 546. ●. x.● yearly, it was surrendered in the year 1539. the 30. of Henry the eight, since the which time, the said monastery being clean pulled down, by Sir Arthur Darcy knight and other, of late time in place thereof is builded a large Store house for victuals, and convenient Quens are builded there, for baking of biscuit to serve her majesties ships. The grounds adjoining belonging to the said Abbey are employed in building of small tenements: for Tower hill, Tower hill. as the same is greatly diminished by building of tenements & garden plots, etc. Merchant tailors alms li●uses. So it is of late. to wit in the year of Christ 1593. on the North side thereof, and at the West end of Hogstréete, beautified by certain fair Alms houses, there strongly builded of Brick and timber & covered with slate for the poor, by the Merchant Tailors of London, in place of some small cottages, given to them by Richard Hills sometime a Master of that company certain timber for that use, being also given by Anthony Radcliffe of the same society Alderman. In these Alms houses 14. charitable brethren of the said merchant Tailors yet living have placed 14. poor sole women, which receive each of them of their founder sixteen pence (or better) weekly, besides viii. ●. xv●. yearly, paid out of the common Treasury of the same corporation, for fuel. Fron the west part of this Tower hill, towards Ealdegate being a long continual street, amongst other smaller buildings in that row there was sometimes an Abbey Abbey of Saint Clare Nuns called the Minories. of Nuns of the order of Saint Clare, called the Minories founded by Edmund Earl of Lancaster, Leycester and Derby, brother to King Edward the first, in the year 1293, the length of which Abbey contained 15. perches and seven foot, near unto the king's street, or high way, etc. as appeareth by a deed dated 1303. This house was valued to dispend 418. ●. 8. ●. v. ●. yearly, and was surrendered by Dame Elizabeth Salvage, the last Abbeys there, unto King Henry the eight, in the 30. of his reign, the year of Christ 1539. In place of this house of Nuns, is now builded divers fair and large store houses, for armour, Store house for armour. and habiliments of war, with divers work houses serving to the same purpose: there is a small parish Church for inhabitants of the close, called S. Trinities. Parish church of S. Trinity. A farm by the Minories. Near adjoining unto this Abbey on the South side thereof, was sometime a Farm, belonging to the said Nunnery, at the which I myself in my youth have fetched many a half penny worth of milk, and never had less than three Ale pints for a halfpenny in the summer, nor less than one Ale quart for a halfpennie in the winter, always hot from the cow, as the same was milked and strained. One Trolop, and afterwards Goodman, were the Farmers there, and had 30. or 40. kine to the pail. Goodman's son being heir thereof, let out the ground first for grazing of horse, and then for garden plots, and lived like a gentleman thereby. On tother side of that street, lieth the ditch without the walls of the city, which of old time was used to lie open, and was always from time to time cleansed from filth and mud, as need required, and was of great breadth and so deep, that divers watering horses, where they thought it shallowest, were drowned both horse and man. But now of latter time, the same ditch is enclosed, and the banks thereof let out for garden plots, carpenters yards, bowling Allies, and divers houses be thereon builded, whereby the ditch is filled up, and made shalllow enough. From Ealdegate East, lieth a large street, and high way, sometime replenished with few, but fair and cleanly buildings: on the North side whereof the first building was the parish church of Saint Buttolph, in a large cemitorie, or church yard. This church Parish Church of S. Buttolph hath been lately new builded at the special charges of the Priors of the holy Trinity, patrons thereof, as it appeareth by the Arms of that house engraven on the stone work. The parishioners of this parish being of late years mightily increased, the church is pestered with lofts & seats for them. Monuments in this Church there are few. john Romany Ollarie & Agnes his wife were buried thereabout 1408. Richard Chester Alderman, one of the Sheriffs 1484. Ihon● Lord Darcy of the North, knight of the Garter beheaded 1537. Sir Nicolas Carew of Bedington in Surrey, knight of the Garter beheaded, 1538. Sir Arthur Darcy, youngest son to Thomas Lord Darcie, deceased at the new Abbey on the Tower hill, was buried there. East from this parish church there were certain fair Inns, for receipt of travelers, repairing to the city, up towards Hog lane Hog lane. end, somewhat within the Bars, a mark showing how far the liberties of the City do extend. This Hog lane stretcheth North to Saint Mary Spittle, without Bishopsgate, and within these forty four years last, had on both sides fair hedgerows of Ealme trees, with bridges and easy styles to pass over into the pleasant fields, very commodious for citizens therein to walk, shoot, and otherwise to recreate and refresh their dulled spirits in the sweet and wholesome air, which is now within few years made a continual building throughout, of garden houses, and small cottages: & the fields on either sides be turned into garden plots, teynter yards, bowling Alleys, and such like, from Hound's ditch in the West, so far as White chapel, and further in the East. The South side of the high way from Ealdegate had some few tenements thinly scattered here and there, with much void space between them, up to the said Bar, but now that street is not only fully replenished with buildings, outward, and also pestered with divers Allies, on either side to the Bars, but also even to White chapel, and beyond. From Aldegate Northwest to Bishopsgate, lieth the ditch of the city in that part called Hounds ditch, Hound's ditch. for that in old time when the same lay open much filth (conveyed forth of the city) especially dead dogs was there laid or cast: wherefore of latter time a mud wall was made enclosing the ditch, to keep out the laying of such filth as had been accustomed. Over against this mud wall on the other side of the street, was a fair field, sometime belonging to the Priory of the Trinity, and since by Sir Thomas Audley given to Magdalen College in Cambridge: this field (as all other about the city) was enclosed, reserving open passage there into, for such as were disposed. Towards the street were some small cottages, of two stories high, and little garden plots backward, for poor bedrid people Bedrid people in Hounds ditch. (for in that street dwelled none other) builded by some Prior of the holy Trinity, to whom that ground belonged. In my youth I remember, devout people aswell men as women of this city, were accustomed oftentimes especially on fridays weekly to walk that way purposely, and there to bestow their charitable alms, every poor man or woman lying in their bed within their window, which was towards the street open so low, that every man might see them, a clean linen cloth lying in their window, and a pair of beads to show that there lay a bedrid body unable but to pray only. This street was first paved in the year 1503. about the later reign of Henry the eight, three brethren that were Gunfounders surnamed Owens, gate ground there to build upon and to enclose for casting of brass ordinance. Brass ordinance cast in Hounds ditchy These occupied a good part of the street on the field side, and in short time divers other also builded there, so that the poor bedrid people were worn out, and in place of their homely cottages, such houses builded, as do rather want room, then rend. The residue of the field was for the most part made into a garden, by a Gardener, named Casway, one that served the markets, with herbs and roots, and in the last year of King Edward the sixth, the same was parceled into gardens, wherein are now many fair houses of pleasure builded. On the ditch side of this street, the mud wall is also by little and little all taken down, the bank of the ditch being raised made level ground, and turned into garden plots, and Carpenters yards, and many large houses are there builded, by which means the ditch is filled up, and both the ditch and wall so hidden that they cannot be seen of the passers by. This Portsoken ward hath an Alderman and his deputy, common counsellors fire, Constables four, Scavenger's four, for the Wardemote inquest eighteen, and a Beadle, to attend upon them all, to the Fifteen it is ceased at ix. pound. Towerstreet Warde. THe first Ward in the East part of this city within the wall, is called Towerstreete Warde, Towerstreet ward. and extendeth along the river of Thames, from the said Tower in the East, almost to Belingsgat in the West: One half of the Tower, the ditch on the West side and bulwarks adjoining do stand with in that part, where the wall of the City of old went, strait from the Postern gate, South to the River of Thames, before that the Tower was builded. From and without the Tower ditch West and by North is the said Tower hill Tower hill sometime a large plot of ground now greatly strengthened by means of incrochments, (unlawfully made and suffered) for gardens and houses, some on the bank of the Tower ditch, (whereby the ditch is marred) but more near unto the wall of the City from the Postern North till over against the principal fore gate of the Lord lumley's house, etc. But the Tower ward goeth no further that way. Upon this hill is always readily prepared at the charges of the City a large Scaffold, Scaffold on Tower hill. and gallows of timber, for the execution of such traitors or other transgressors, as are delivered out of the Tower, or otherwise to the Sheriffs of London by writ there to be executed. I read that in the fift of King Edward the fourth, a Scaffold and gallows was there set up by other the kings officers, and not of the City's charges, whereupon the Mayor and his brethren complained, but were answered by the king, that the Tower hill was of the liberty of the City, And whatsoever was done in that point was not in derogation of the cities liberties, Liberl. folio 40. and thereupon commanded proclamation Proclamation W. Danthorne to be made, aswell within the city as in the suburbs, as followeth: For as much; as the 7. day of this present month of November, gallows were erect and set up besides our Tower of London, within the liberties and franchises of our City of London, in derogation and prejudice of the liberties and franchises of the City, The king our sovereign Lord would it be certainly understood, that the erection and setting up of the said gallows was not done by his commandment, wherefore the King our sovereign Lord willeth that the erection and setting up of the said gallows be not any precedent or example thereby hereafter to be taken, in hurt, prejudice, or derogation, of the franchises, liberties, & privileges, of the said City, which he at all times hath had, & hath in his benevolence tender favour and good grace etc. Apud Westminst. 9 die Novemb. Anno Regni nostri quinto. On the North side of this hill, is the said Lord lumley's house, and on the West side divers houses lately builded, and other incrochments along south to Chick lane, Chick lane. and so Berwardes lane, Berwards lane on the East of Barking Church, at the end whereof you have Tower street stretching from the Tower hill, West of Saint Margeret Patents church Parsonage. Now therefore to begin at the East end of the street, Towerstreet. on the North side, there is the fair parish church called All-hallows Barking, All-hallows Barking a parish church. Barking chapel of our Lady. which standeth in a large (but sometime far larger) cemitory or Churchyard. On the North side thereof was sometime builded a fair Chapel, founded by King Richard the first, confirmed and augmented by king Edward the first. Edward the fourth gave licence to john Earl of Worcester, to found there a brotherhood for a Master and brethren, and he gave to the Custos of that fraternity, which was Sir john Scotte Knight, Thomas Colt, john Tate, and john Croke, the Priory of Tottingbroke in the County of Surrey, with all the members and appurtenances, and a part of the Priory of Okeborne in Wiltshire both Prior's Aliens, and appointed it to be called the kings Chapel The king's Chapel of Barking. or chantry, In Capella beatae Mariae de Barking. King Richard the third new builded this Chapel, and founded therein a College of Priests etc. Robert Tate Mayor of London in the year 1488. when he deceased, 1501. was buried there. This Chapel and College was suppressed and pulled down in the year 1548. the second of King Edward the sixth, the ground was employed as a garden plot, during the reigns of King Edward, Queen Mary, and part of Queen Elizabeth, till at length a large strong frame of timber and brick was set thereon, & employed as a fair house of merchants goods brought from the sea, by Sir William Winter etc. Monuments in the parish Church of All-hallows Barking not defaced are these: Sir Thomas Studinham, of Norwich diocese Knight 1469. Thomas Gilbart Draper and Merchant of the Staple 1483. john Bolt merchant of the Staple 1459. Sir john Style knight, Draper, 1500. William Thin Esquire, one of the clerks in household to K. Henry the eight, 1546. Humphrey Monmouth Draper, one of the Sheriffs, 1535. buried in the church yard William Denham, one of the sheriffs, 1534. Henry Howard Earl of Surrey beheaded 1546. Lord Ferrer, Richard Browne Esquire, 1546. Philip Dennis Esquire 1556. Andrew Euenger Salter, William Robinson Mercer, Alderman, 1552. William Armourer Clothworker Esquire, Governor of the Pages of honour, servant to Henry the eight, Edward the sixth, & Queen Mary, buried 1560. Besides which there be divers Tombs without inscription. By the West end of this parish Church and Chappel, lieth Sydon lane, Sidon lane. from Tower street up North to Hart street. In this Sydon lane divers fair and large houses are builded, namely one by Sir john Allen, sometime Mayor of London, and of counsel unto King Henry the eight: Sir Francis Walsingham Knight principal Secretary to the queens Majesty that now is, was lodged there, and so was the Earl of Essex, etc. At the North West corner of this lane, standeth a proper parish Church of S. Olaue, which Church together with some houses adjoining, and also with others over against it in Hartstréete, are of the said Tower street ward. Monuments in this parish Church Parish church of S. Olaue in Hartstreet. of Saint Olaue be these: Richard Cely, and Robart Cely, fellmongers, principal builders and benefactors of this church: Dame joahan wife to Sir john Zouch 1439. john Clarentiaulx Herald 1427. Thomas Soul, Sir Richard Haddon Mercer, Mayor 1512. Thomas Burnall Mercer 1548. Thomas Morley Gentleman 1566. Sir john Radcliffe Knight 1568. And Dame Anne his wife, 1585. Chapone a Florentine Gentleman 1582. Sir Hamond Vaughan Knight, George Stoddard Merchant. etc. Woodroffe lane Woodroffe lane. towards the Tower is in this Parish. Than have ye out of Towerstreete, also on the North side, one other lane, called mart lane, Mart lane ● a Mart kept bout Blan● Chappel. which runneth up towards the North, and is for the most part, of this Towerstreete ward, which lane is about the third quarter thereof divided, from Aldegate ward, by a chain to be drawn, thwart the said lane, above thewest end of heart street, a third lane out of Towerstreete, on the North side is called Mincheon Mincheon lane, Galley men dwelle● there. or Minion lane: this lane is all of the said ward, except the corner house towards Fenchurch street. In this lane of old time, dwelled divers Strangers born of Genoa, and those parts, these were commonly called Galley men, as men that came up in the Galleys, brought up wines and other merchandises which they landed in Thames street, at a place called Galley key: they had a certain coin of Silver amongst themselves which were half pence of Genoa, and were called Gallye half pence: these half pence were forbidden in the thirteenth of Henry the fourth, and again by Parliament in the third of Henry the fift, by the name of half pence of Genoa forbidden to pass as unlawful payment amongst the English subjects. Notwithstanding in my youth, I have seen them pass currant, but with so me difficulty, for that the English halfpence were then (though not so broad) somewhat thicker and stronger. There was at that time also forbidden certain other coins called Seskaris, and Dodkins, with all Scottish moneys. The Clothworkers hall Clothwork hall. is in this lane: Than at the west end of Towerstreete have ye a little turning towards the North to a fair house sometime belonging to one named Grista, for he dwelled there in the year 1449. And jack Cade captain of the rebels in Kent, being by him, in this his house feasted, when he had dined (like an unkind guest) rob him of all that was there to be found worth the carriage. Gristes' hot● Next to this is one other fair house, sometime builded by Angel Dune Grocer, since possessed by Sir john Champneis john Cha●●neis Alderman blinde● Alderman & Mayor of London, he builded in this house an high Tower of Brick, the first that ever I heard of in any private man's house to overlook his neighbours in this city. But this delight of his eye was punished with blindness, some years before his death, since that time Sir Perceval Hart knight, a jolly courtier and knight harbinger to the Queen, was lodged there etc. From this house somewhat West is the parish church and Parsonage house of S. Margaret's Patents, to the which church and house on the North side, and as far over against on the south stretcheth the farthest west part of this ward. And therefore to begin again at the East end of Towerstreete, on the south side, have ye Bear lane, Bear lane● Sporiar lane, or Water lane or Hart lane. Baker's hall. Harp lane. wherein are many fair houses, and runneth down to Thames street: The next is Sporiar lane, of old time so called, but since, and of later time named Water lane, because it runneth down to the Water gate, by the Custom house in Thames street: then is there Hart lane, or Harp lane which likewise runneth down into Thames street. In this Hart lane is the Baker's hall, sometime the dwelling house of Chichley Camberlaine of London, who was Brother to Chichley the Archbishop: he had 24. children. Sir Thomas Kirriell of Kent, after that he had been long Prisoner in France, married Elizabeth one of the daughters of this Chichley, by whom he had this Chichleis' house. This Elizabeth was secondly married to Sir Ralph Ashton, knight Martial: and thirdly to Sir john Burchier, uncle to the late Burchier, Earl of Essex, but she never had child. Edward Poininges made part with Burchier, and Elizabeth to have Ostenhanger in Kent, after their death, and entered into it, they living. In Tower street between heart lane and Church lane, was a quadrant ●alley Row church lane ●y East. called Galley Row, because Galley men dwelled there. Than have ye two lanes out of Towerstreete, both called Church lanes church lane ●● the west. because one runneth down by the east end of S. Dunston's church and the other by the west end of the same: out of the west lane, turneth an other lane, west towards S. Marie hill, and is called Fowl lane, ●owle lane. which is for the most part of Towerstreete ward. This Church of S, Dunstone is called in the East, for difference from one other of the same name in the west: it is a fair and large Church of an ancient building, and within a large Church yard, ●rish church ●S. Dunstone ●he east. it hath a great parish of many rich Merchants and other occupiers of divers Trades, namely Saltars and iron-mongers. The monuments in that Church be these. In the Choir john Kenington Parson there buried, 1374. William Islip, Parson, 1382. john Kryoll Esquire, brother to Thomas Kryol, 1400. Nicholas Bond, Thomas Barry Merchant, 1445. Robert Shelly Esquire, 1420. Robert Pepper Grocer, 1445. john Norwich Grocer. 1390. Alice Brome, wife to john Coventry sometime Mayor of London. 1433. William Isaac Draper Alderman, 1508. Edward scales Merchant, 1521. john Ricroft Esquire, sergeant of the Larder, to Henry the seventh, and Henry the eight, 1532. Edwatars Esquire sergeant at Arms, 1558. Sir Bartilmew james Draper Maior, 1479. buried under a fair Monument, with his Lady. Ralph Greenway Grocer, Alderman, put under the stone of Robert Peppar 1559. Thomas Bledlow one of the sheriffs. 1472. james Bacon Fishmonger Sheriff, 1573. Sir Richard Champion Draper Maior, 1568. Henry Herdson Skinner Alderman. 1555. Sir james Garnado Knight, William Hariote Draper Maior. 1481. buried in a fair Chapel by him builded, 1517. john Tate son to Sir john Tate, in the same Chapel, in the north wall, Sir Christopher Draper iron-monger Maior, 1566. buried 1580. and many other worshipful Personages beside, whose monuments are altogether defaced. Now for the two church lanes, they meeting on the south side of this Church and Churchyard, do join in one: and running down to the Thames street: the same is called S. Dunstan's hill, at the lower end whereof the said Thames street, towards the west on both sides almost to Belin's gate, but towards the east up to the water gate, by the Bulwark of the Tower, is all of Towerstreete ward. In this street on the Thames side are divers large landing places, called wharffes, or keys, for Cranage up of wares and merchandises, as also for shipping of wares from thence to be transported. These wharffes and keys commonly bear the names of their owners, and are therefore changeable. I read in the 26. of Henry the first that in the parish of S. Dunstone in the East a Tenement called Passekes Passekes Wharfe and Hornars Key. wharf and an other called Horners key in Thames street, were granted to William Haringdon Esquire. I read also that in the sixth of Richard the second john Churchman Grocer, for the quiet of Merchants, did newly build a certain house upon the key, called Wool wharf, in the Towerstreete ward, in the Parish of All-hallows, Barking, betwixt the Tenement of Paul Salisberry on the east part, and the lane called the water gate on the west, Whole wharf by Custom key. to serve for Troynage, or weighing of wools in the Port of London: Water gate by wool key. Whereupon the king granted that during the life of the said john, the aforesaid Troynage should be held and kept in the said house, Custom house. with easementes there, for the balances and weights, and a counting place, for the Customer, Controwlers, Clerks, and other Officers of the said Troynage together with ingress and egress to and from the same, even as was had in other places, where the said Troynage was wont to be kept, Tronage of wells. and that the king should pay yearly to the said john, during his life xl. ●. at the terms of S. Michael and Easter, by even portions by the hands of his Customer without any other payment to the said john, Custom house. as in the Indenture thereof more at large appeareth. Near unto this Customers key towards the East, is the said watergate, and west● from it Porter's key, Portars key or Portars lane Galley key. than Galley key, where the Galleys were used to unlade, and land their merchandises and wares: and that part of Thames street, was therefore of some called Galley Row, but more commonly Petty Wales. Petty Wales. On the North side, as well as on the South of this Thames street is many fair houses large for stowage, builded for Merchants, but towards the east end thereof, namely over against Galley key, Wool key, and the custom house, there have been, of old time some large buildings of stone, the ruins where of do yet remain, but the first builders and owners of them are worn out of memory, wherefore the common people affirm julius Cesar julius Caesar's house by the Tower as was said. to be the builder thereof, as also of the Tower itself. But thereof I have spoken already. Some are of an other opinion, and that a more likely, that this great stone building was sometime the lodging appointed for the Princes of Wales, Princes of Wales their lodging. when they repaired to this city, and that therefore the street in that part, is called Petty Wales, which name remaineth there most commonly until this day: even as where the kings of Scotland were used to be lodged betwixt Charing cross and white hall, it is likewise called Scotland: and where the Earls of Briton, were lodged without Aldersgate, the street is called Britain street, etc. The said building might of old time pertain to the Princes of Wales as is aforesaid, but is since turned to other use. It is before noted of Galley key that the Galleys of Italy, and other parts did there discharge their wine's a●d merchandises The Merchants of Italy their lodging by their Galleys. brought to this City. It is like therefore that the Merchants and Owners procured the place to build upon for their lodgings and storehouses, as the Merchants of the Haunce of Almaigne, were licenced to have an house called, Gilda T●utonicorum the Guild hall of the Germans. Also the Merchants of Burd●aux were licenced to build at the Uintry, strongly with stone, as may be yet seen and seemeth old, though often repaired: much more cause hath these building in Petty Wales (though as lately builded, and partly of the like stone, brought from Cane in No●mandie,) to seem old which for many years (to wit since the Galleys Not Galleys landed here in memory of men living. left their course of landing there) hath fallen to ruin and been let out, for stabling of horses, to tipplers of Beer, and such like amongst others, one mother Mampudding (as they termed her) for many years kept this house (or a great part thereof) for victualling, and it seemeth that the builders of the hall of this house were shipwrightes, A strange kind of building by Shipwrightes or Galley men and not house Carpenters: for the frame thereof (being but low) is raised of certain principal all posts of main timber, fixed deep in the ground, without any groundsel boarded close round about, on the inside, having none other wall from the ground to the roof, those Boards not exceeding the length of a Clapboorde, about an inch thick, every board ledging over other, as in a Ship or galley nailed with ship nails, called rugh, and clenches, to wit rugh nails with broad round heads, and clenched on the other side with square plates of iron, the roof of this hall is also wrought of the like board & nailed with rugh and clench, & seemeth as it were a Galley, the kecle turned upwards, and I observed that no worm or rottenness is seen to have interred, either board or timber, and therefore (in mine opinion) of no great antiquity, but I leave every man to his own judgement, and pass to other matters. I read in the 44. of Edward the third, that an Hospital An Hospital for Lunatic or frenzy people. in the parish of Barking Church was founded there by Robert Denton Chaplain, for the suffentation of poor Priests, and other both men and women, that were sick, of the Frenzy, there to remain till they were perfectly whole, and restored to good memory. Also I read that in the 6. of Henry the fift, there was in the Tower ward, a messsage or great house, called Cobham's Inn, Cobham's Inne● and in the 37. of Henry the sixth, a messsage in Thames street pertaining to Richard Longuile etc. Some of the ruins before spoken of, may seem to be of the foresaid Hospital, belonging peradventure to some Prior Alien, and so suppressed amongst the rest, in the reign of Edward the third, or Henry the fift, who suppressed them all. Thus much for the bounds and antiquities of this ward, wherein is noted the Tower of London, three parish Churches, the Custom house, and two Hals of Companies, to wit, the Clothworkers and the Bakers. This ward hath an Alderman his Deputy, common Counsellors eight, Constables thirteen, Scavenger's twelve, Wardmote men thirteen, and a Beadle: it is taxed to the fifteen at 46. ●. and accounted in the Exchequer at 45. ●. 10. ●. Ealdgate ward. THe second ward within the wall on the east part is called Ealdgate ward, Ealdgate ward as taking name of the said gate, the principal street of this ward beginneth at Ealdgate, stretching west to sometime a fair wall, where now a pump is placed: from thence the way being divided into twain, the first and principal street, called Ealdgate street, runneth on the Southside, to Limestreete corner, and half that street down on the left hand, is also of that ward. In the mid way on that South side, betwixt Ealdgate and Lymestreete, is heart horn alley, heart horn Alley. a way that goeth through into Fenchurch street over against Northumberlande house. Than have ye the Bricklayers hall, Bricklayers hall. and an other Alley called sprinkle alley, Sprinkle Alley. of an holy water Sprinkle sometime hanging there, now named Sugar loaf Alley of the like sign. Than is there a fair, house: with divers Tenements near adjoining, sometime belonging to a late dissolved Priory since possessed by Mistress Cornewallies, widow and her heirs, by the gift of king Henry the 8. in reward of fine puddings (as it was commonly said) by her made, where with she had presented him. Such was the princely liberality of those times. Of later time, Sir Nicholas Throgmorton knight, was lodged there. Than somewhat more west, is Belzetars lane, Bilzettars' lan● so called of the first builder & owner thereof, now corruptly called Billita lane, betwixt this Belzettars lane, & Lymestreete, was of later time a frame of three fair houses set up in the year 1590. in place where, before was a large garden plot, enclosed from the high street, with a Brick wall, which wall being taken down, and the ground digged deep for Cellarage, there was found right under the said Brick wall an other wall of stone, Wall, gate and window of stone, found under ground. with a gate Arched with stone and gates of Timber, to be closed in the midst towards the street, the timber of the Gates was consumed, but the Hinges of iron still remained on their staples on both the sides. Moreover in that wall were square windows with bars of iron, on either side the gate, this wall was under ground about two fathoms deep, as I then esteemed it, and seemeth to be the ruins of some house burned in the reign of king Stephen, when the fire began in the house of one Aelward near London stone, and consumed east to Ealdgate, whereby it appeareth how greatly the ground of this City, hath been in that place raised. On the north side: this principal street stretcheth to the west corner of S. Andrew's Church, & then the ward turneth towards the North by S. Mary street, S. Marry stree●●● on the east side to S. Augustine's Church in the wall, and so by Buries marks again, or about by the wall to Ealdgate. The second way from Ealdgate, more towards the south from the Pump aforesaid is called Fenchurch street, and is of Ealdgate ward till ye come to Culuar Alley, Culuar Alley on the west side of iron-mongers hall where sometime was a lane which went out of Fenchurchstreete to the midst of Limestreete, but this lane was stopped up, for suspicion of thieves that lurked there by night. Again to Aldgate out of the principal street even by the gate & wall of the City, runneth a lane south to the Tower hill, and out of this lane west, a street called Hart street, heart street. which of that ward stretcheth to Sydon lane by S. Olaves' Church. One other lane more west from Ealdgate goeth by Northumberland house towards the Crossed Friars: then have ye on the same side the Northend of Martlane, and Blanch Chappleton where that ward endeth. Thus much for the bounds: now for monuments, or places most ancient and notable: I am first to begin with the late dissolved Priory of the Holy Trinity called Christ's Church, on the right hand within Ealdgate. This Priory was founded by Matilde the Queen, wife to Henry the first, in the same place where Siredus sometime began to erect a Church in honour of the Cross, and of S. Marie Magdalen, of which the Dean and Chapter of Waltham were wont to receive 30. ●. The Queen was to acquit her Church thereof, and in Exchange gave unto them a mill. King Henry her husband confirmed her gift: This Church was given to Norman, the first Cannon regular in all England. Priory of the Trinity of Canons regular. The said Queen also gave unto the same Church and those that served God therein the port of Ealdgate, & the Soak thereunto belonging, with all customs so free as she had held the same, & 25. ●, Blanks, which she had of the City of Excester: as appeareth by her deed, wherein she nameth the house Christ's Church, and reporteth Aldegate to be of her domains, which she granteth with 2. parts of the rent of the city of Excester. Norman took upon him to be Prior of Christ's Church, in the year of Christ 1108 in the Parishes of S. Marie Magdalen, S. Michael. S. Katherine, and the Blessed Trinity, which now was made but one Parish of the Holy Trinity, and was in old time of the Holy Cross, or Holy Rood Parish. The Priory was builded on a piece of ground in the Parish of S. Katherine, towards Ealdgate, which lieth in length betwixt the kings street, by the which men go towards Ealdgate: near to the Chapel of S. Michael towards the North, and containeth in length 83. else half quarter & quartern of the king's Iron eln, & lieth in breadth etc. the Soak & ward of Ealdgate, was then bounded as I have before showed, the Queen was a mean also that the land and English Knighten Guild, was given unto the Prior Norman the honourable man Geoffrey de Glinton was a great helper therein and obtained that the Canons might enclose the way betwixt their church and the wall of the city etc. Prior of Christ church an Alderman of London. This Priory in process of time became a very fair and large church, rich in lands and ornaments and passed all the Priories in the city of London or shire of Middlesex, the Prior whereof was an Alderman of London, to wit, of Portsoken ward. I read that Eustacius the 8. Prior, about the year 1264. because he would not deal with temporal matters instituted Theobald Fitz juonis Alderman of Portsoken Warde under him. And that William Rising, Prior of Christ's Church was sworn Alderman of the said Portsoken Warde, in the first of Richard the second. These Priors have fitten and ridden amongst the Aldermen of London, in livery like unto them, saving that his habit was in shape of a spiritual person as I myself have seen in my childhood: at which time the Prior kept a most bountiful house of meat and drink both for rich and poor, aswell within the house as at the gates, to all comers according to their estates. These be the monuments in this church, Sir Robert Turk, and Dame Alice his wife, john Tirell Esquire, Simon Kempe Esquire, james Manthorpe Esquire, john Ascue Esquire, Thomas Fauset of Scalset Esquire, john Kempe gentleman, Robert Chirwide Esquire, Sir john Heningham and Dame Isabel his wife, Dame Agnes wife first to Sir William Bardolpe, and then to Sir Thomas Mortimer, john Ashfield Esquire. Sir john Dedham Knight. Sir Ambrose Charcam, john wife to Thomas Nuck Gent. john Husse Esquire, john Beringham Esquire, Thomas Goodwin Esquire, Ralph Walls Esquire, Dame Margaret daughter to Sir Ralph Chevie, wife to Sir john Barkely, to Sir T. Barnes, and to Sir W. Bursire, William Roose, Simon Francis, john Breton Esquire, Helling Esquire, john Malwen, and his wife, Anthony Welles, son to john Welles, Nicholas de Auesey and Margery his wife, Anthony son to john Milles, Henry Fitzalwine Mayor of London 1213. Baldwine son to king Stephen, and Mathilde daughter to king Stephen, wife to the Earl of Millen, and many other. But to conclude my speech of this Priory, Priory of th● holy Triniti● surrendered ● surppessed. king Henry the eight minding to reward Sir Thomas Audley speaker of the Parliament, against Cardinal Wolsey (as ye may read in Hall) sent for the Prior commending him for his hospitality, promised him (as a man worthy of a far greater dignity, (which promise' surely he performed, and compounded with him (though in what sort I never heard) so that the Prior surrendered all that Priory with the appurtenances to the king, in the month of july, in the year 1531. the 23. of the said kings reign. The Canons were sent to other houses of the same order, and the Priory with the appurtenances King Henry gave unto Sir Thomas Audley newly knighted, and after made Lord Chancellor. This Sir Thomas Audeley offered the great Church of this Priory, with a ring of nine bells well tuned (whereof four the greatest are now at Stebunhith, and the five lesser at S. Stephens in Colemans street) to the parishioners of Saint Katherine Christ church, in exchange for their small parish Church, minding to have pulled it down, & to have builded there towards to street: But the parishioners having doubts in their heads of afterclappes, refused the offer. Than was the Priory Church and steeple, proffered to whomsoever that would take it down, and carry it from the ground, but no man would undertake the offer, whereupon Sir Thomas Audley was fain to be at more charges to take it down, then could be made of the stone, timber, lead, iron etc. For the workmen with great labour beginning at the top, loased stone from stone, and threw them down, whereby the most part of them were broken, and few remained whole, and those were sold very cheap, for all buildings then made, were of brick and timber. At that time any man in the City, might have a cart load of hard stone for pa●ing brought to his door for vj. ●. or seven. ●. with the carriage. The said Thomas Lord Audley builded and dwelled on this Priory during his life, and died there in the year 1544. since the which time the said Priory came by marriage of the Lord Audleyes' daughter and heir unto Thomas late Duke of Norfolk, and was then called the Duke's place. The Duke's place. The parish Church of S. Katherine Parish church of S. Katherine Christ's church standeth in the Cemitory of the late dissolved Priory of the holy Trinity, and is therefore called S. Katherine Christ Church. This Church seemeth to be a very old thing, since the building whereof the high street hath been so often raised by pavements, that now men are feign to descend into the said Church by divers steps. But the steeple, or Bell Tower thereof hath been lately builded, to wit, about the year 1504 for Sir john Percivall Merchant Taylor then deceasing gave money towards the building thereof. There be the Monuments of Sir Thomas Fleming Knight of Rowalles, in Essex, & Margaret his wife 1464. Roger Martial Esquire, jane Horn, wife to Roger Martial, William Multon, alias Burdiaux Herald, john Goad Esquire and joan his wife, Beatrix daughter to William Browne, Thomas Multon Esquire, son to Bordeaux Herald, john Chitcroft Esquire, john Wakefield Esquire, William Criswicke, Anne, and Sewch daughters to Ralph Shirley Esquire, Sir john Rainstorth knight of Essex, Sir Nicholas Throkmorton chief Butler of England, one of the Chamberlains of the Exchequer, Ambassador etc. 1570. and other. At the North west corner of this Ward in the said high street, standeth the fair and beautiful parish Church of S. Andrew Parish church of S. Andrew Vndershaft. the Apostle, with an addition (to be known from other Churches of that name) of the Knape or undershaft, and so called S. Andrew Vndershaft because that of old time, every year on May day in the morning it was used, that an high or long shaft (or May pole) was set up there, in the midst of the street before the south door of the said Church, which shaft when it was set on end, & fixed in the ground, was higher than the Church steeple. Geffrey Chawcer, writing of a vain boaster, hath these words, meaning of the said shaft. A shaft or May pole higher than the church steeple Right well aloft and high ye bear your head, The weather cock with flying, as ye would kill, Chaucer chance of dice. When ye be stuffed bet of wine, than breed Than look ye when your womb doth fill, As ye would bear the great shaft of Cornhill, Lord so merrily crowdeth then your croak That all the street may hear your body cloak. This shaft was not raised at any time since evil May day, (so called of an insurrection made by Prentices, and other young persons against Aliens in the year 1517) but the said shaft was laid along over the doors and under the pentises of one row of houses, and Alley gate, called of the shaft, shaft Alley, (being of the possessions of Rochester bridge) in the Ward of Limestreete. It was there I say hanged on Iron hooks many years, till the third of king Edward the sixth, that one Sir Stephen, curate of S. Katherine Christ's Church, preaching at Paul's cross, said there, that this shaft was made an Idol (by naming the church of S. Andrew, with the addition of under that shaft: Shaft or May pole preached against, at Paul's cross. he persuaded therefore that the names of churches might be altered: also that the names of days in the week might be changed, the fish days to be kept any days, except friday and saturday, and the Lent any time, save only betwixt Shrovetide and Easter: I heard his sermon, and saw the effect that followed: for in the afternoon of that present sunday, the neighbours and tenants to the said Bridge, over whose doors the said shaft had lain (after they had well dined to make themselves strong) gathered more help, and with great labour raising the shaft from the hooks whereon it had rested two and thirty years, they sawed it in pieces, Shaft or May pole sawed in pieces and burnt. every man taking for his share so much as had lain over his door & stall, the length of his house, and they of the Alley divided amongst them so much as had lain over their Alley gate. Thus was this Idol (as he poor man termed it) mangled and after burned. Soon after was there a commotion of the Commons in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and other shires, by means whereof straight orders being taken for the suppression of rumours) divers persons were apprehended and executed by the martial Law, amongst the which the Bailiff of Romford Bailiff of Romford executed within Aldegate for words spoken to the priest of the parish. in Essex was one, a man very well beloved: he was early in the morning of Mary magdalen's day (than kept holy day) brought by the Sheriffs of London and the Knight Martial, to the Well within Ealdgate there to be executed upon a jebit set up that morning, where being on the ladder, he had words to this effect: Good people I am come hither to die, but know not for what offence, except for words by ●e spoken yester night to Sir Stephen, Curate and Preacher of this parish, which were these: He asked me what news in the country, I answered heavy news: why quoth he? it is said (quoth I) that many men be up in Essex, but thanks be to God all is in good quire about us: and this was all as God be my judge, etc. upon these words of the prisoner, Sir Stephen to avoid the reproach of the people, left the City, and was never heard of ●●nce to my knowledge. I heard the words of the prisoner, for he was executed upon the pavement of my door, where I than kept house: Thus much by digression, now again to the parish church of S. Andrew Vndershaft Parish church of S. Andrew Vndershaft new builded. (for it still retaineth the name) which hath been new builded by the parishioners there, since the year 1520. every man putting to his helping hande● some with their purses, other with their bodies: Stephen Genings merchant Taylor, sometime Mayor of London, caused at his charges to be builded the one half, to wit, the whole North side of the great middle I'll, both of the body and choir, as appeareth by his arms over every pillar graven, & also the North I'll, which he also roofed with timber, and seeled, also the whole South side of the church was glazed, and the pews in the south chapel made of his costs as appeareth in every window, and upon the said pews. He deceased in the year 1524. and was buried in the Grey friars church. john Kerkbie Merchant Taylor sometime one of the Sheriffs, john Garland Merchant Taylor and Nicholas Leuison mercer, executor to Garland, were great benefactors to this work: which was finished to the glazing in the year 1529. and fully finished 1532. The monuments of the dead buried in this church are these: Philip Malpas one of the Sheriffs in the year 1439. was buried in the old church: this man gave by his testament to the poor prisoners 125. pound: to other poor, every year for five years together four hundred shirts and smocks, an hundred and fifty gowns, and forty pair of sheeets, to poor maids marriages an hundred marks, to high ways an hundred marks, and to five hundred poor people in London every one si●e shillings eight pence, besides twenty marks the year to a graduate, to preach abroad in the countries: twenty shillings the year, for twenty years to the preachers at the Spittle, the three Easter holy days. Sir Robert Dennie Knight, and after him Thomas Dennie his son in the year 1421. Thomas Stokes Gentleman, Grocer, 1496. In the new church john Michael Merchant Taylor, 1537. William Draper Esquire 1537. Isabel and Margaret his wives, Nicholas Leuison Mercer, one of the Sheriffs 1534. john Gerrarde Woolman Merchant of the stale 1546. Henry Man Doctor of divinity, Bishop of Man, 1550. Stephen Kyrton merchant Taylor Alderman 1553. David Woodroffe Haberdasher, one of the Sheriffs 1554. Sir Thomas Ofley Merchant Taylor, Mayor, 1556. Thomas Starkey Skinner, one of the Sheriffs 1578. Hugh Ofley Leatherseller one of the Sheriffs. 1588. Now down S. Marry street S. Marry street by the West end of the church towards the North, stand divers fair houses for Merchants, and other: namely one fair great house, builded by Sir William Pickering Pickering house. the father, possessed by Sir William his son, and since by Sir Edward Wootton of Kent. North from this place is the Fletcher's Hall, Fletcher's hall and so down to the corner of that street, over against London wall, & again Eastwards, to a fair house lately builded, by M. Beale one of the clerk of the Counsel. Than come you to the Pappey, a proper house, wherein sometime was kept a Fraternity, or brotherhood of S. Charity, and S. john Evangelist, called the Papey, Pappey a brotherhood or Hospital for poor priests. for poor impotent Priests, (for in some language Priests are called Papes) founded in the year 1430. by William Oliver, William Barnaby, and john Stafford chaplains, or chantry Priests in London, for a Master, two Wardens, etc. Chaplains, Chauntery Priests, conducts, and other brethren, and sisters, that should be admitted into the Church of S. Augustine Papey in the Wall, the brethren of this house becoming lame, or otherwise into great poverty, were here relieved, as to have chamber, with certain allowance of bread, drink, and coal, and one old man and his wife to see them served, and to keep the house clean. This brotherhood amongst others was suppressed in the reign of Edward the sixth, since the which time in this house hath been lodged M. Moris of Essex, Sir Francis Walsingham principal Secretary to her Majesty, Master Barret of Essex etc. Than next is one great house large of rooms, fair courts and garden plots, sometimes pertaining to the Basset's, since that to the Abbots of Bury The Abbot of Bery his Inn, Bevis Marks. in Suffolk, and therefore called Buries Marks, (corruptly Bevis Marks) and since the dissolution of the Abbey of Bury to Sir Thomas Henage the father and the son. Than next unto it is the before spoken Priory of the holy Trinity to wit, the West and North part thereof, which stretcheth up to Ealdgate where we first begun. Now again in the second way from Ealdgate more toward the south from the Well or Pump aforesaid, lieth Fen Church street, Fen church street. on the right hand whereof somewhat west from the south end of Belzetters lane, is the Irommongers' hall: Iremongers' hall. which company was incorporated in the third of Edward the fourth. Richard Fleming was their first master, Nicholas Martial & Richard Cox were Custos or Wardens. And on the left hand or south side, even by the gate and wall of the city runneth down a lane to the Tower hill, A lane by the wall to the Tower hill. and out of this lane toward the west, a street called Hart street. In this street, at the southeast corner thereof sometime stolde one house of Crouched (or crossed) Friars, Crossed Friars Church. founded by Ralph Hosiar) & William Sabernes, about the year 1298. Stephen the 10, Prior of the holy Trinity in London, granted 3. tenements for xiii. ●. viii. ●. by the year, unto the said Ralph Hosiar, and William Sabernes, who aftrerwards became Friars of S. Crosse. Adam was the first Prior of that house. These Friars founded their house in place of certain tenements purchased of Richard Wimbush the 12. Prior of the holy Trinity in the year 1319. which was confirmed by Edward the 3. the 17. of his reign, valued at two & fifty pound, thirteen shillings, four pence, surrendered the 12. of November the 30. of Henry the eight. In this house was buried Master john Tirres, Nicholas the son of William Ky●iel Esquire, Sir Thomas Mellington Baron of Wemese, and Dame Elizabeth his wife, daughter and heir of William Botelar Baron of Wome, Robert Mellington esquire, and Elizabeth his wife, daughter to Ferreis of Ousley, Henry Lovel, son to William Lord Lovel, Dame Isabella wife to William Edward, Mayor of London 1471. William Narborough, & Dame Elizabeth his wife, William Narbrough, and Dame Beatrix his wife, William Brosked esquire, William Bowes, Lyonel Mollington esquire, son of Robert Mollington, Nicholas Couderow & Elizabeth his wife. Sir john Stratford Knight, Sir Thomas Asseldy, Knight Clerk of the crown, Submarshall of England, and Justice of the shire of Middlesex, john Rest Grocer Mayor of London 1516. Sir john Skevington Knight, Merchant Tailor, Sheriff 1520. Sir john Milborne Draper, Mayor in the year 1521. was buried there, but removed since to S. Edmond in Lombard street, etc. In place of this church is now a carpenters yard, a Tennis court, and such like: the friars hall was made a glass house, The Glass house burned. or house wherein was made glass of divers sorts to drink in: which house in the year 1575. on the 4. of September braced out into a terrible fire, where being practised all means possible to quench, not withstanding as the same house in a small time before, had consumed a great quantity of wood by making of glasses, now itself having within it about 40000. Billets of wood was all consumed to the stone walls, which nevertheless greatly hindered the fire from spreading any further. Adjoining unto this friars church, by the East end thereof, in the lane towards the Tower hill, are certain proper alms houses, Alms houses by crossed Friars. 14. in number, builded of Brick and timber, founded by Sir john Milborne Draper, sometime Mayor 1521. wherein be placed xiii. aged poor men, and their wives, if they have wives: these have their dwellings rend free, and ij. ●. iiij. ●. the piece: the first day of every month for ever. One also is to have his house over the gate, and iiij. ●. every month etc. For the performance whereof by the master and wardens of the Drapers in London, he assured unto them and their successors 23. Messages and tenements and 18. garden plots in the parish of S. Olaue in heart street, with Proviso, that if they perform not these points above mentioned and others, the said tenements and gardens to remain to the Mayor and communality of the City of London etc. Next to these alms houses is the Lord lumley's house, Lord lumley's house. builded in the time of Henry the eight, by Sir Thomas W●at the father, upon one plot of ground of late pertaining to the foresaid Crossed Friars, where part of their house stood: And this is the farthest part of Ealdgate ward, towards the south, and joineth to the Tower hill. The other side of that lane, over against the Lord lumley's house, on the wall side of the City is now for the most part (or altogether) builded even to Ealdgate. Than have ye on the south side of Fen church street, over against the wall, amongst other fair and large builded houses, one that sometime belonged to the Prior of Monte Ioues, or monastery Cornute (a cell to Monte Ioues beyond the seas) in Essex: it was the Prior's Inn, when he repaired to this city. Prior of Horn church in Essex. Than a lane that leadeth down by Northumberland house, towards the crossed Friars, as is afore showed. This Northumberland house Northumberland house. in the parish of S. Katherine Colman belonged to Henry Percy Earl of Northumberland in the three & thirty of Henry the sixth, but of late being left by the Earls, the Gardens thereof were made into Bowling Alleys, and other parts into dicing houses, common to all comers for their money, there to bowl and hazard, but now of late so many Bowling allies and other houses for unlawful gaming, hath been raised in other parts of the city and suburbs, that this their ancient and only patron of misrule, is left and forsaken of her Gamesters, and therefore turned into a number of great rent small cottages, for strangers and other. At the west end of this Lane in the way from Ealdgate toward the Crossed Friars, of old time were certain Tenements called the poor jury The poor jury. of jews dwelling there. Next unto this Northumberland house is the parish Church of S. Katheren called Coleman, Parish church of S. Katherine Coleman. which addition of Coleman, was taken of a great Haw yard or garden, of old time called Coleman haw, in the parish of the Trinity, now called Christ's Church, and in the Parish of S. Katherine, and All Saints called Coleman Church. Than have ye the Blanch Chapleton, whereof I read in the thirteenth of Edward the first, that a lane behind the same Blanch Chapleton, Manor of Blanch Chappleton. was granted by the King to be enclosed and shut up. This Blanch Chapleton was a manor belonging to Sir Thomas Roes of Hamelake knight, the seventh of Richard the second, standing at the North-east corner of Mart lane, which was so called of a Privilege sometime enjoyed, so keep a Mart there, now long time since discontinued, and therefore forgotten, so as nothing remaineth for memory, but the name of Mart lane, Mart lane. and that corruptly termed Mark lane. I read that in the third of Edward the fourth, all Basket makers, Wiar Drawers, and other Foreigners, were permitted to have shops, in this manner of Blanch Cappleton, Basketmakers at Blanch Chapleton. and not else where within this city or suburbs thereof: & this also being the farthest west part of this ward, on that southside I leave it. Which hath one Alderman, his Deputy, common counsellors six, Constables six, Schavengers' 9 Wardmote men for inquest eightteene, and a Bedle. It is taxed to the Fifeteene in London, at 46. ●. and accounted in the Exchequer to 45. ●. 10. ●. Lymestreete ward. THe next is Lymestreete ward, Lymestreete ward. and taketh the name Lymestreete, Lymestreete. of making or selling of lime there, (as is supposed,) the East side of this Lymestreete, from the North corner thereof to the midst is of Ealdgate ward, as is aforesaid: the west side, for the most part from the said North corner, southward, is of this Lymestreete ward: the southend on both sides is of Langborne ward: the body of this Lymestreete ward, is of the high street called Cornhill street, High street of Cornhill. which stretcheth from Limestreete on the south side, to the west corner of Leaden hall: and on the North side from the south-west corner of S. Marry street, to an other corner over against Leaden hall. Now for S. Marry street, the west side thereof is of this Limestreete ward, and also the street which runneth by the northend of this S. Marry street, on both sides, from thence west to an house called the Wrestlers (a sign so called) almost to Bishopsgate. And these are the bounds of this small ward. Monuments or places notable in this ward be these: In Lymestreet are divers fair houses, for Merchants & others, there was sometime a mansion house of the kings, called the kings Artirce An house in Lymestreete called the kings Artirce. whereof I find record in the 14. of Edward the first, but now grown out of knowledge. I read also of an other great house in the westside of Lymestreete, having a Chapel on the south, and a garden on the west, then belonging to the Lord Nevell, (which Garden is now called the Green yard of the Leaden hall. This house in the ninth of Richard the second, pertained to Sir Simon Burley, and Sir john Burley, his brother, and of late the faide house was taken down, and the forefront thereof new builded of timber by Hugh Offley Alderman. At the North west corner of Lymestreete was of old time one great messsage called Benbriges Inn, Benbriges Inn. Ralph Hollend Draper, about the year 1452. gave it to john Gill, master, and to the Wardens and Fraternity of Tailors and Linen Armourers of S. john Baptill, in London, and to their successors for ever. They did set up in place thereof a fair large frame of timber, containing in the high street one great house, and before it to the corner of Limestreete, three other tenements, the corner house being the largest, and then down Limestreete divers proper tenements. All which the Merchant Tailors in the reign of Edward the sixth sold to Stephen Kirton Marchantaylor, and Alderman: this worshipful man, and the Gentlewoman his widow after him, kept those houses in good reparations, never put out one Tenant, took no fines, nor raised Rents of them, which was x. ●. the piece yearly: But whether that favour did overlive her funeral, the tenants now can best declare. Next unto this on the high street, was the Lord Souches messsage messsage of the Lord Souch. or Tenement and other. In place whereof Richard Whethill, Merchant Taylor builded a fair house, with an high Tower, the second in number, and first of timber, that ever I learned to have been builded to overlook neighbours in this city. This Richard then a young man became in short time so tormented with Gouts in his joints, of the hands and legs, that he could neither feed himself, nor go farther than he was led, much less, was he able to climb, and take the pleasure of the height of his Tower. Than is there an other fair house, builded by Stephen Kyiton Alderman, Alderman Lee doth now possess it. Than is there a fair house of old time called the Green gate, Patent. by which name one Mighel Pistoy Lombard held it, with a tenement & 9 shops, in the reign of Richard the second, who in the ●5. of his reign gave it to Roger Crophull, and Thomas Bromeflet, esquires, by the name of the Green gate, messsage called the Green gate. in the parish of S, Andrew upon Cornhill, in Lymestreete ward: since the which time Philip Malpas, philip Malpa● rob. sometime Alderman, and one of the sheriffs dwelled therein, and was there rob, and spoiled of his goods to a great value, by jacke Cade and other Rebels in the year 1449. Afterwades in the reign of Henry the seventh, it was seized into the kings hands, and then granted, first unto john Alston, after that to William de la Rivars, and since by Henry the eight, to john Mutas (a Picarde) or Frenchman, who dwelled there, and harboured in his house, many Frenchmen, that kalendred wolstedes, and did other things contrary to the Franchises of the Citizens: wherefore on evil May day, which was in the year 1517. the Prentices and other spoilt his house: and if they could have found Mutas, Mutas● house rob. they would have stricken off his head. Sir Peter Mutas a serviceable Gentleman, son to the said john Mutas, sold this house to David Wodrofte Alderman, whose son Sir Nicholas Wodroffe Alderman, sold it over to john Moor Alderman, that now possesseth it. Next is a house called the Leaden Portch Leaden Portch. lately divided into two tenements, whereof one is a Tavern, and then one other house for a Marchante, likewise called, the Leaden Portch: but now turned to a Cook's house, next is a fair house and a large, wherein divers Maioralities have been kept, whereof twain in my remembrance: to wit Sir William Bowiar, and Sir Henry Huberthorne. The next is Leaden Hall, Leaden hall. of which I read, that in the year 1309. it belonged to Sir Hugh Nevil knight, and that the Lady Alice his widow, made a Feoffment thereof, by the name of Leaden hall, with the advowsons of the Church of S. Peter upon Cornhill, and other churches, to Richard Earl of Arundel and Surrey, 1362. Moore in the year 1380. Alice Nevil, widow to Sir john Nevil knight of Essex, confirmed to Thomas Cogshal, & others the said Manor of Leaden hall, the advowsions etc. In the year 1384. Humphrey de Bohun, Earl of Hereforde, had the said Manor. And in the year 1408. Robert Rikeden of Essex, and Margaret his wife confirmed to Richard Whitington and other citizens of London, the said Manor of Leaden hall, with the Appurtenances, the advowsions of S. Peter's Church, S. Margaret's Pattens, etc., And in the year 1411 the said Whitington and other confirmed the same to the Mayor and Commonalty of London, whereby it came to the possession of the City. Than in the year 1443. the 21. of Henry the sixth, Licence to take up lead to the building up of common Granary. john Ha●herley Maior, purchased licence of the said king to take up 200. fodar of lead, for the building of water conduits, a common Granary, and the Cross in west Cheap, more richly for honour of the City. In the year next following the Parson and Parish of S. Dunstone in the east of London, seeing the famous and mighty man (for the words be in the grant: cum nobilis & potens. vir.) Simon Eyre, citizen of London, among other his works of piety, effectually determined to erect and build a certain Granary upon the soil of the same city at Leaden hall, of his own charges, for the common utility of the said city, to the amplifiing, and enlarging of the said Garnary, granted to Henry Frowicke then Mayor, the Aldermen, and Commonalty and their successors, for ever, all their tenements, with the Appurtenances sometime called the Horsemill in grass street, for the annual rent of four pound, etc. Also certain Evidences (of an Alley and Tenements pertaining to the Horsemill, Horsmill in Grassestreete adjoining to the said Leaden hall in Grassestreete, given by William Kingston Fishmonger, unto the parish church of S. Peter upon Cornhill) do specify the said Granary to be builded by the said honourable and famous Merchant Simon Eyre, Simon Eyre sometime an upholster then by changing of his copy a Draper. sometime an Upholster, & then a Draper, in the year 1419. he builded it of squared stone, in form as now it showeth, with a fair & large chapel in the east side of the quadrant over the Portch of which he caused to be written. Dextra Domini exultavit me, the Lords right hand hath exalted me: he deceased in the year 1459, Leaden hall now builded to be a common garnar. and was buried in his Parish Church of S. Marie Wolnoth: in Lombard street● he gave by his Testament (which I have read) to be distributed, to all prisoners in London, A Chapel builded in Leaden hall. or within one mile of that city, somewhat to relieve them. Moore he gave two thousand marks upon a condition which not performed, was then to be distributed, to maids marriages, Legacies given by Simon Eyre. and other deeds of charity, he also gave three thousand marks to the Company of Drapers upon condition they should within one year after his decease establish perpetually a Master or Warden, 5. secular Priests, Daily service by note etc. and three free schools in the Leaden hall● six Clerks and two choristers to sing daily divine service, by note for ever in his Chapel of the Leaden hall: Also three Schoolmasters, with an Usher, to wit, one Master with an Ushar for Grammar, one Master for writing, and the third for Song with housing there newly builded for them for ever, the master to have for his Salary ten pound: & every other Priest eight pound, every other Clerk, five pound six shillings eight pence, and every other Chorister, five marks: and if the Drapers refused this to do within one year after his decease, than the three thousand Marks to remain to the Prior and Covent of Christ's Church in London, with condition to establsh as is aforesaid, within two years after his decease, and if they refused, than the three thousand marks to be disposed by his Executors as they best could devise in works of charity: thus much for his Testament not performed by establishing of divine service in his chapel, or free schools for scholars, neither how the stock of three thousand marks was employed by his Executors, could I ever learn, flying tales have I heard, but not of credit, to avouch, and therefore I over pass them: he left issue Thomas, who had issue Thomas, Liber albus. Beam for tronage of wools at Leaden hall etc. True it is that in the year 1464. the third of Edward the fourth, it was agreed by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Commonalty of London, that notwithstanding the kings letters patents, lately before granted unto them touching the Troynage or Weighing of wares to be holden at the Leaden hall, yet suit should be made to the king for new letters patents to be granted to the Mayor of the Staple, for the Tronage of Wolles to be holden there, & order to be taken, by the discretion of Thomas Cook, than Mayor, the counsel of the city, Geoffrey Filding, than Mayor of the Staple at Westminster, and of his counsel, what should be paid to the Mayor and Aldermen of the city for the laying and housing of the wools there, that so they might be brought forth and weighed, etc. Touching the chapel there, I find that in the year 1466. by licence obtained of king Edward the fourth, in the sixth of his reign, a Fraternity of the Trinity, of 60. priests, A brotherhood of 60. Priests in the Chapel of Leaden hall● (besides other Brethrens, and Sisters) in the same Chapel was founded by William Rouse, john Risbie, and Thomas Ashby, priests, some of the which 60 priests, every market day, in the fore no●ne, did celebrated divine service there, to such market people as repaired to prayer, and once every year, they met altogether, and had solemn service, with procession of all the brethren and sisters. This foundation was in the year, 1512. by a common counsel confirmed to the 60. Trinity Priests, and to their successors at the will of the Mayor and Commonalty. Now it did befall that in the year, 1484. a great fire happened upon this Leaden hall, Leaden hall burned. by what casualty I know not, but much howsing was there destroyed with all the stocks for Guns, and other provision belonging to the City, which was a great loss, and no less charge to be repaired by them. In the year 1503. the eighteenth of Henry the seventh, Richard Arnold a request was made by the Commons of the City, concerning the usage of the said Leaden hall, in form as followeth. Please it the Lord Maior, Aldermen, and common Counsel, to enact that all French men, bringing Canvas, Linen cloth, and other wares to be sold, and all Forrens bringing Wolffeds, Says, Staimus, Kiverings, Nails, Iron work, A request of the Citizens to the Mayor and Aldermen. or any other wares, and also all manner Forrens bringing Lead to the city to be sold, shall bring all such their wares aforesaid to the open market of Leaden hall there, Leaden hall market for Canvas and Linen cloth. and no where else to be showed, sold and uttered, like as of old time it hath been used, upon pain of forfeiture of all the said wares showed or sold in any other place then aforesaid, the show of the said wares to be made three days in the week, that is to say Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, it is also thought reasonable that the common Beam be kept from henceforth in the Leaden hall, and the Farmer to pay therefore reasonable rent to the chamber: for better it is that the chamber have advantage thereby, than a Foreign person, & also the said Leaden hall, which is more chargeable now by half then profitable, shall better bear out the charges thereof, also the common Beam Common Beam to be kept in Leaden hall. for wool at Leaden hall, Leaden hall pertaining ●● the Commonalty. may pay yearly a rent to the chamber of London, toward supportation and charges of the same place: for reason it is, that a common office occupied upon a common ground● bear a charge to the use of the Commonalty: also that Forrens bringing wols, Fels, or any other merchandises or wares to Leaden hall, Wools, Fels, and other merchandise to be sold, in Leaden hall. to be kept there for the sale and market, may pay● more largely for the keeping of their goods, then Free men. Thus much for the request of the Commons at this time. Now to set down some proof that the said hall hath been employed and used as a Granary for Corn and Grain (as the same was first appointed) leaving all former examples, this one may suffice: Roger Acheley Mayor Leaden hall used as a garna● Roger Acheley Maior, made good provision for the city of London, in the year 1512. the third of Henry the eight, when the said Mayor entered the Maioralitie, there was not found one hundred quarters of wheat in all the Garners of the city, either within the Liberties or near adjoining: through the which scarcity, when the Cartes of Stratforde Bread carts of Stratford at the Bow. came laden with Bread to the City (as they had been accustomed) there was such press about them, that one man was ready to destroy an other, in striving to be served for their money: but this scarcity lasted not long: for the Mayor in short time made such provision of Wheat, that the Bakers both of London, and of Stratforde were weary of taking it up, and were forced to take much more than they would, and for the rest the Mayor laid out the money and stowed it up in Leaden hall, and other Garnars of the City. This Mayor also kept the market so well, that he would be at the Leaden hall, by four a clock in the summer mornings, and from thence he went to other markets, to the great comfort of the Citizens. I read also that in the year, 1528. the 20. of Henry the eight, surveyors were appointed to view the Garnars of the City, namely the Br●dge house, and the Leaden hall, how they were stored of Grain for service of the City: And because I have here before spoken of the bread carts coming from Stratforde at the Bow, ye shall understand that of old time the Bakers of Bread at Stratforde, were allowed to bring daily (except the Sabbath and principal Feast) divers long Cartes laden with Bread, the same being two ounces in the penny wheat loaf heavier than the penny wheat loaf baked in the City, the same to be sold in Cheap, three or four Cartes standing there, between Guthurans lane, and Fausters' lane end, one cart on Cornhill by the Conduit, and one other in Grassestreete. And I have read that in the fourth year of Edward the second, Richard Reffeham being Maior, a Baker named john of Stratforde: Liber d. A Baker of Stratford punished in London for baking bread under the Assize. for making Bread lesser than the Assisse, was with a fools hood on his head, and loves of bread about his neck, drawn on a hurdle through the streets of this city: Moreover in the 44. of Edward the third. john Chichester being Mayor of London, john Mall. Breadcarts from Stratford misused in this city in time of scarcity. I read in the visions of Pierce Ploughman, a book so called as followeth. There was a careful common, when no cart came to town with baked bread fro Stratford: though 'gan beggars weep & workmen were aghast, a little this will be thought long in the date of our Drirte, in a dry Auerell a thousand and three hundred, twice thirty and ten etc. These Bakers of Stratford left serving of this City I know not upon what occasion, about 30. years since: In the year 1519. a petition A petition by the commons concerning the use of the Leaden hall. was exhibited by the commons to the common counsel, and was by them allowed, concerning the Leaden hall, how they would have it used, viz. Meekly beseeching showeth unto your good Lordship, and masterships', divers cittzens of this City, which under correction think, that the great place called the Leaden hall, should nor aught not to be let to farm, to any person or persons, and in especial to any fellowship or company incorporate, to have and hold the same hall for term of years, for such inconveniences as thereby may ensue, and come to the hur● of the common weal of the said city, in time to come, as somewhat more largely may appear in the articles following. First if any assembly, or hasty gathering of the commons of the said City for oppressing or subduing, of misruled people within the said City hereafter shall happen to be called or commanded by the Mayor, aldermans, and other governors and counsellors of the said city for the time being, there is none so convenient meet and necessary a place to assemble them in, within the said city, as the said Leaden hall, both for largeness of room, and for their sure defence in time of their counseling together about the premises. Also in that place hath been used the artillery, Guns, and other armours of the said city to be safely kept in a readiness for the safeguard, wealth, and defence of the said city, to be had and occupied at times when need required. As also the store of timber for the necessary reparations of the tenements belonging to the chamber of the said city, there commonly hath been kept. Item if any triumph or nobleness were to be done or showed by the communality of the city for the honour of our sovereign Lord, the King, and realm, and for the worship of the said city, the said Leaden hall is most meet and convenient place to prepare and order the said triumph therein, and from thence to issue forth to the places therefore appointed, Item, at any largesse or dole of any money made unto the poor people of this city, it hath been used to be done and given in the said Leaden Hall, Leaden Hall a market place for victulers & the people to stand dry. for that the said place is most meet therefore. Item, the honourable Father, that was maker of the said hall, had a special will, intent and mind, that (as it is commonly said) the market men and women that came to the City with victuals and other things should have their free standing within the said Leaden Hall in wet weather, to keep themselves and their wares dry, and thereby to encourage them and all other to have the better will and desire the more plenteously to resort to the said City, to victual the same. And if the said Hall should be let to farm, the will of the said honourable father should never be fulfilled nor take effect. Item, if the said place which is the chief fortress and most necessary place within all the City, for the tuition and safeguard of the same, should be let to farm out of the hands of the chief heads of the same City, and especially to an other body politic, it might at length by likelihood be occasion of discord, and debate between the said bodies politic, which God defend. For these and many other great and reasonable causes, which hereafter shallbe showed to this honourable Court, your said beseechers think it much necessary, that the said Hall be still in the hands of this city, and to be surely kept by sad and discreet officers in such wise, that it may always be ready to be used and occupied for the common weal of the said City, when need shall require, and in no wise to be let to any body politic. Thus much for the petition. About the year 1534. great means was made about the Leaden Hall Leaden hall meant to have been made a Bu●se for merchants. to have the same made a Burse for the assembly of merchants, as they had been accustomed in Lombard street, many common counsels, were called to that end, but in the year 1535. john Champnais being Mayor, it was fully concluded that the Burse should remain in Lombard street, as afore: and Leaden Hall no more to be spoken of concerning this matter. The use of Leaden Hall in my youth was thus: In a part of the North quadrant on the East side of the North gate, was the common beams for weighing of wool, and other wares, as had been accustomed: on the west side the gate was the scales to way meal: the other three sides were reserved for the most part to the making and resting of the pageants showed at midsummer in the watch: the remnant of the sides and quadrantes were employed for the stowage of wool sacks, but not closed up: the lofts above were partly used by the painters in working for the decking of pageants and other devices, for beautifying of the watch and watchmen, the residue of the lofts were let out to merchants, the wool winders and packers therein to wind and pack their wools: And thus much for Leaden Hall may suffice. Now on the North of Limestréete ward in the high street, are divers fair houses for merchants, and proper tenements for artificers, with an alley also called Shaft Alley, of the shaft or Maypole sometime resting over the gale thereof, as I have declared in Aldegate ward. In the year 1576 partly at the charges of the parish of S. Andrew, and partly at the charges of the chamber of London, a water pump A pump in the high street of Limestreet ward. was raised in this high street of Limestréete ward, near unto Limestréet corner: for the placing of the which pump, having broken up the ground, they were forced to dig more than two fathom deep before they came to any main ground: Cornhill street in some place raised 2, fathom higher than of old time, as appeared by buildings found so deep. where they found a hearth made of Britain (or Roman) tile as they call it, every tile half yard square and about two inches thick: they found coal lying there also, (for that lying whole will never consume) then digging one fathom into the main they found water sufficient, and set up the pump. Thus much for the high street. In S. Mary street S. Marry street. had ye of old time parish Church of S. Marry the virgin, S. Ursula, and the 11000. Parish church of Mary S. Ursula, & 11000 vigines called at the Axe, let out for a warehouse. virgins, which Church was commonly called S. Mary at the Axe, of the sign of an Axe, over against the East end thereof, or S. Marie Pellipar of a plot of ground lying on the North side thereof, pertaining to the Skinners in London. This parish about the year 1565. was united to the parish Church of S. Andrew Vndershaft, and so was S. Mary at the Axe suppressed, and let out to be a warehouse for a Merchant. Also against the North end of this S. Mary street was sometime one other parish Church of S. Augustine, Parish church of S. Austin in the wall made a chapel to the papey, and since pulled down made a stable. called S. Augustine in the wall, for that if stood adjoining to the wall of the City: and otherwise called S. Augustine's Papey, for that about the year 1430. in the reign of Henry the sixth, the same Church was allowed to the brethren of the Papey, the house of poor priests, whereof I have spoken in Aldgate ward. The parishioners of this Church were appointed to the parish Church of All-hallows in the wall, which is in Breadstreet ward, this brotherhood (called Papey) being suppressed, the church of S. Augustine was pulled down, and in place thereof one Grey a Pothecary builded a stable, and a heyloft: it is now a dwelling house, reserving the Church yard for a garden plot. Those two parish Churches both lying in the Ward of Limestréet, being thus suppressed, there is not any one parish church or place for divine service in that ward, but the inhabitants thereof repair to Churches, out of their Ward, namely to S. Peter upon Cornhill in Cornhill ward, S. Andrew in Aldegate ward, All-hallows in the wall in Breadstréete ward, and some to S. Denis in Langborne ward. Now because of late there hath been some question, to what ward this Church or chapel of S. Augustine Papie should of right belong, for the same hath been challenged by them of Aldgate ward, and without reason taken into Bishopsgate ward, from Limestréete ward, I am somewhat to touch it. About 30. years since the chamber of London granted a lease of ground (in these words) lying near London wall in the ward of Limestréet, Houses by London wall, in the ward of Limestreet. from the West of the said church or chapel of S. Augustine, Papey, towards Bishopsgate etc. On the which plat of ground the lease, builded three fair tenements, and placed tennantes there: these were charged to bear scot and lot, and some of them to bear office in Limestréete ward: all which they willingly did without grudging. And when any suspected or disordered persons were by the Landlord placed there, the officers of Limestréete ward fetched them out of their houses, committed them to the ward, procured their due punishments, and banished them from thence: whereby in short time that place was reform & brought into good order: which thing being noted by them of Aldegate Warde, they moved their Alderman Sir Thomas Offley to call in those houses to be of his ward: but I myself showing a fair ledgier book sometime pertaining to the late dissolved Priory of the holy Trinity within Aldegate, wherein were set down the just bounds of Aldegate ward, before Sir Thomas Offley, Sir Rowland Heyward, the common counsel and Wardemote inquest of the said Limestréete ward, Sir Thomas Offley gave over his challenge: and so that matter rested in good quiet, until the year 1579. that Sir Richard Pipe being Mayor, and Alderman of Bishopsgate ward A part of Limestreet ward unjust withheld by Bishopsgate ward. challenged those houses, to be of his Ward, whereunto (without reason showed) Sir Rowland Heyward yielded: and thus is that side of the street from the North corner of S. Marry street, almost to Bishopsgate, (wherein is one plot of ground let by the Chamberlain of London to the parish of S. Martin's Oto●wich, A churchya● by London wall pertaining to Saint Martin's O●●wich in Bishopsgate. Liber fraete● to be a churchyard, or burying place for the dead of that parish etc.) unjustly drawn from the ward of Limestreet. divers other proofs I could set down, but this one following may suffice. The Mayor and Aldermen of London made a grant to the fraternity of Papie, in these words: Be it remembered that where now of late the master and wardens of the fraternity of the Papie have made a brick wall, closing in the chapel of Saint Augustine called Papie Chapel, situate in the parish of All-saintes in the wall, in the Ward of Limestreet of the city of London: from the southeast corner of the which brick wall, is a scutcheon of xxi. foot of assize from the said corner Eastward. And from the same scuncheon there to a messsage of 55. foot & a half westward, the said scuncheon breaketh out of line right southward betwixt the measures aforesaid, iij, foot, and five inches of assize, upon the common ground of the city aforesaid, Ralph Verney Mayor, & the Aldermen of the same city the xxij. day of October, the sixth year of Edward the fourth granted to john Hod priest, master john Bolt & Thomas Pachet priests, wardens of the fraternity of Papie aforesaid, and to their successors for ever, etc. yielding iiij. ●. sterling yearly at Michaelmas, and this is (saith my book) enrolled in the Guildhall in London: which is a sufficient proof the same plot of ground to be of Limestréet ward. On the south side of this street stretching west from S. Mary street, towards Bishopsgate street, there was of old time one large messsage builded of stone and timber, Patent. Oxford place. in the parish of S. Augustine, in the wall, now in the parish of All-hallows in the same wall, belonging to the Earl of Oxford, for Richard de Vere Earl of Oxford possessed it in the 4. of Henry the fift, but in process of time the lands of the Earl fell to females, amongst the which one being married to Wingfield of Suffolk: this house with the appurtenances fell to his lot, and was by his heir Sir Robert Wingfield sold to M. Edward Cook, at this time the Queen's Attorney general. This house being greatly ruinated of late time, for the most part hath been let out to Poulters, for stabling of horses and stowage of poultry. One note more of this ward, and so an end. I found of record, that in the year 1371 the 45. of Edward the third, a great subsidy of 100000. Subsidy of Limestreet ward in the year 1371. ●. was granted towards the King's wars in France, whereof the clergy paid 50000. ●. and the laity 50000. ●. to be levied in 39 shires, of England, containing parishes 8600. of every parish 5. ●. xuj. ●. the greater to help the lesser: this City (as one of the shires) then containing 24. wards, and in them 110. parishes, was therefore assessed to 635. ●. 12. ●. whereof Limestréet ward did bear 34. shillings and no more: so small a ward it was and so accounted, as having no one whole parish therein, but small portions only, of two parishes in that ward. This ward hath an Alderman, his deputy, common counsellors 4. Constables 4. Scavenger's 2. Wardemote inquest 16. and a Beadle, and is taxed to the fifteen at 40. shillings, or thereabout. Bishopsgate ward. THe next is Bishopsgate Warde, Bishopsgate ward. whereof a part is without the gate, and of the suburbs from the bars, by S. Mary Spittle, to Bishopsgate, and a part of Hound's ditch, almost half thereof, also without the wall is of the same Ward. Than within the gate is Bishopsgate street, so called of the gate, to a Pump where sometime was a fair well with two buckets by the East end of the parish church of Saint Martin Otoswich, and then winding by the West co●ner of Leaden Hall, down Grass street to the corner over against Grass Church, and this is the bounds of that ward. Monuments there most to be noted, are these: the parish Church of S. Buttolph without Bishopsgate Parish church of S. Buttol● without Bishopsgate. in a fair Churchyard, adjoining to the Town ditch upon the very bank thereof, but of old time enclosed with a comely wall of brick, lately repaired by Sir William Allen Mayor, in the year 1571. because he was borne in that parish, where also he was buried. Now without this Churchyard wall is a causeway leading to a quadrant, called Petty France, Petty France near to the town ditchy of Frenchmen dwelling there, and to other dwelling houses, lately builded on the bank of the said ditch by some citizens of London, that more regarded their own private gain, than the common good of the City: for by means of this causeway raised on the bank, and soylage of houses, with other filthiness cast into the ditch, the same is now forced to a narrow channel, and almost filled up with unsavoury things, to the danger of empoisoning the whole city. Next unto the parish church of S. Buttolph, is a fair Inn for receipt of travelers: then an Hospital Hospital o● Bethelem. of S. Mary of Bechelem, founded by Simon Fitz Mary one of the Sheriffs of London, in the year 1246. he founded it to have been a Priorse of Cannons with brethren and sisters, and king Edward the third granted a protection, which I have seen for the brethren, Miliciae beatae Mariae de Bethlem, within the city of London, the 14. year of his reign. It was an Hospital for distracted people: the Mayor and commonalty purchased the patronage thereof with all the lands and tenements therewto belonging, in the year 1546 the same year King Henry the eight gave the Hospital thereof unto the city: the Church and chapel whereof were taken down in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and houses builded there, by the Governors of Christ's Hospital in London. In this place people that be distraight in wits, are by the suit of their friends received and kept as afore it was used, but not without charges to their bringers in. In the year 1569. Sir Thomas Roe Merchant Taylor Mayor, caused to be enclosed with a wall of brick, about one acre of ground, being part of the said Hospital of Bethelem, to wit, on the west, on the bank of deep ditch, so called, parting the said hospital of Bethlem from the Moore field: this be did for burial, Burial for the dead prepared Deep ditch by Bethelem. in ease of such parishes in London as wanted ground, convenient within their parishes. The Lady his wife was there buried (by whose persuasion he enclosed it) but himself borne in London was buried in the parish church of Hackney. From this Hospital Northward upon the streets side many houses have been builded with alleys backward, of late time too much pestered with people (a great cause of infection) up to the bars. The other side of this high street from Bishopsgate, & Hounds ditch: the first building is a large Inn for receipt of travelers, than a fair house of late builded by the Lord john Powlet. Fisher's Folly. Next to that a far more large and beautiful house with gardens of pleasure, bowling alleys, and such like, builded by jasper Fisher free of the Goldsmiths, late one of the six clerk of the Chancery, and a justice of peace. It hath since for a time been the Earl of Oxford's place. The queens Majesty Elizabeth hath lodged there. It now belongeth to M. Cornewallos. This house being so largely and sumptuously builded by a man of no greater calling or possessions, was mockingly called Fishers Folly, and a Rhythm was made of it, and other the like in this manner; Kirkebies' Castle, and Fisher's Folly, Spinilas' Pleasure, and Megses glory, and so of other such like buildings about the City. From Fisher's Folly up to the West end of hog Lane, which cometh from the bars without Aldegate, as is afore showed, is a continual building of tenements, with alleys of cottages, pestered, etc. Than is there a large close, called Tasell close, Tasell close. sometime for that there were Tassels planted for the use of Clothworkers: since let to the Crossbow makers, wherein they used to shoot for games at the Popingey: now the same being enclosed with a brick wall, serveth to be an Artillery yard, Artillery yard whereunto the Gunners of the Tower do weekly repair, namely every thursday, and there leveling certain Brass pieces of great Artillery against a butt of earth, made for that purpose, they discharge them for their exercise. Than have ye the late dissolved Priory and hospital of our blessed Lady commonly called S. Marry Spittle, S. Marry Spitt● founded for Canons regular, by a citizen of London named Walter Brune, & Rosya his wife, in the year 1235. This Hospital was at the suppression valued so dispend 478 pound, etc. Where besides the ornaments of the Church, and goods pertaining to the Hospital, there was found standing one hundredth and fourscore beds, well furnished for receipt of the poor of charity: for it was an Hospital of great relief. There lycth buried Sir Henry Plesington Knight, 1452. In place of this Hospital, and near adjoining, are now many fair houses builded, for receipt and lodging of worshipful and honourable persons. Apart of the large churchyard pertaining to this Hospital, and severed from the rest with a brick wall, Pulpit Cros● at the Spittle. yet remaineth, (as of old time) with a pulpit cross therein, somewhat like to that in Paul's churchyard: and against the said pulpit on the south side, before the chernell and chapel of S. Edmonde the Bishop: and Mary Magdalen remaineth also one fair builded house of two stories in height for the Mayor and other honourable persons, with the Aldermen and Sheriffs to sit in, there to hear the Sermons preached upon Easter holy days. In the fit over them, the Ladies and Alderman's wives do stand at a fair window or sit at their pleasure. And here it is to be noted, that time out of mind, it hath been a laudable custom that on good friday in the after noon some especial learned man by appointment of the prelates doth preach a sermon at Paul's cross, treating of Christ's passion. And upon the three next Easter holidays, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the like learned men by the like appointment do use to preach on the fore noon at the said Spittle, to persuade the articles of Christ's resurrection, and then on low Sunday before noon one other learned man at Paul's cross is to make rehearsal of those four former sermons, either commending or reproving them, as to him by judgement of the learned divines is thought convenient: And that done he is to make a sermon of himself, which in all were five Sermons in one. At these Sermons so severally preached, the Mayor with his Brethrens, the Aldermen are accustomed to be present in their Violets at Paul's, on Good Friday, and in their Scarlets, both they and their wives, at the Spittle in the Holy days (except Wednesday in Violet) and the Mayor with his Brethrens, on Low Sunday in Scarlet, at Paul's Crosse. Touching the antiquity of this custom, I find none other, then that in the year, 1398. the 22. of Richard the second: that the king having procured from Rome, confirmation of such statutes, and ordinances, as were made in the Parliament, (begun at Westminster, and ended at Shreusbery, he caused the same confirmation to be read and pronounced at Paul's Cross, and at S. Marry Spittle in the Sermons before all the people: Philip Malpas one of the Sheriffs in the year 1439. the 18. of Henry the sixth, gave twenty shillings by year to the three Preachers at the Spittle. Stephen Fo●●●ar Mayor, in the year 1454. gave forty pound to the Preachers at Paul's Cross and Spittle. House in S. Marry Spittle churchyard builded for the Mayor and Aldermen. Pulpit Cross in Spittle church yard new builded. A house in Spittle church yard builded for the governors and children of christs Hospital. Lolesworth field. Burial of the Romans' in Spittle field. Old monuments of the Romans' found, I find also that the aforesaid house, wherein the Mayor and Aldermen do sit at the Spittle, was builded for that purpose, of the goods, and by the Executors of Richard Rawson Alderman and Isabella his wife, in the year 1488. In the year 1594. this Pulpit being old, was taken down, and a new set up: and the Preachers face turned towards the south, which was before towards the west, also a large house on the east side of the said Pulpit, was then builded for the governors and children of Christ's Hospital to sit in: and this was done of the goods of William Elkens Alderman, late deceased, but within the first year, the same house decaying, and like to have fallen, was again with great cost repaired at the City's charge. On the east side of this Churchyard lieth a large field of old time called Lolesworth, now Spittle field: which about the year 1576. was broken up for clay to make brick, in the digging whereof many earthen pots called Vrnae, were found full of ashes, and of brent bones of men, to wit of the Romans' that inhabited here: for it was the custom of the Romans' to bren their dead, to put their ashes in an urna, and then to bury the same, with certain ceremonies in some field appointed for that purpose, near unto their City: every of these pots had in them with the ashes of the dead, one piece of Copper money, with the inscription of the Emperor, then reigning: some of them were of Claudius, some of Vespasian, some of Nero, of Antonius Pius, of Troianus: and others besides those urnas, many other pots were there found, made of a white earth with long nockes, and handles, like to our stone jugs: these were empty, but seemed to be buried full of some liquid matter long since consumed and soaked through: for there were found divers vials and other fashioned glasses, some most cunningly wrought, such as I have not seen the like, and some of Crystal, all which had water in them, nothing differing in clearness, taste, or savour from common spring water: some of these glasses had oil in them very thick, and earthy in savour, some were supposed to have balm in them, but had lost the virtue: many of those pots and glasses were broken in cutting of the clay: so that few were taken up whole: there were also found divers dishes and cups of a fine read coloured earth, which showed outwardly such a shining smoothness, as if they had been of coral, those had in the bottoms Roman letters printed, there were also lamps of white earth artificially wrought with divers antiques about them, some three or four Images, made of white earth, about a span long, each of them: one I remember was of Pallas, the rest I have forgotten, I myself have reserved amongst divers of those antiquities there found, one pot of white earth very small, not exceeding the quantity of a quarter of a wine pint, made in shape of a Hare, squatted upon her legs, and between her ears is the mouth of the pot: there hath also been found in the same field troughs of stone found in the Spittle field. divers coffins of stone, containing the bones of men: these I suppose to be the burials of some especial persons, in time of the Britons, or Saxons, after that the Romans' had left to govern here: moreover there were also found the skulls and bones of men without coffins, or rather whose coffins (being of great timber) were consumed: divers great nails of iron were there found, such as are used in the wheels of sh●d carts, being each of them as big as a man's finger, and a quarter of a yard long, the heads two inches over, those nails Great nails of iron found in the field & fond opinions of men. were more wondered at then the rest of things there found, and many opinions of men were uttered of them, namely that the men there buried were murdered by driving those nails into their heads, a thing unlikely, for a smalller nail would more aptly serve to so bad a purpose, and a more secret place would lightly be employed for their burial. But to set down what I have observed, concerning this matter, I there beheld the bones of a man lying as I noted, the head North, the feet South, and round about him, as thwart his head along both his sides, & thwart his feet, such nails were found, wherefore I conjectured them to be the nails of his Coffin, which had been a trough cut out of some great tree, and the same covered with a plank, of a great thickness, fastened with such nails: and therefore I caused some of the nails to be reached up to me, and found under the broad heads of them, the old wood, scant turned into dust or earth, but still retaining both the grain, and the proper colour, of these nails with the wood under the head thereof, I reserved one as also the neither jaw bone of the man, the teeth being very greate● sound and fast fixed, which (amongst other many monuments there found) I have yet to show: but the nail lying dry is now by scaling greatly wasted. And thus much for this part of Bishopsgate ward without the gate: for I have in another place spoken of the gate, & therefore I am now to speak of that other part of this ward, which lieth within the gate. And first to begin on the left hand of Bishopsgate street, from the gate ye have certain tenements of old time pertaining to a Brotherhood of S. Nicholas, granted to the parish Clerks of London, for two Chaplains to be kept in the Chapel of S. Mary Magdalen near unto the Guild hall of London, in the 27. of Henry the sixth, the first of these houses towards the North & against the wall of the City, was sometime a large Inn or court called the Wrestlers (of such a sign) and the last in the high street towards the South, was sometime also a fair Inn called the Angel of such a sign: amongst these said tenements was on the same street side a fair Entry or Court to the common hall of the said parish Clerks, Clerks hall and their Alms houses in, Bishopsgate street. with proper Almshouses seven in number, adjoining for poor parish Clerks, and their wives, their widows, such as were in great years not able to labour. One of these by the said Brotherhood of parish Clerks was allowed sixteen pence the week, the other six had each of them nine pence the week, according to the patent thereof granted. This Brotherhood amongst other being suppressed. In the reign of Edward the sixth, the said Hall with the other buildings there, was given to Sir Robert Chester a knight of Cambridge shire, against whom the parish Clerks commencing suit, in the reign of Queen Marie, and being like to have prevailed, the said Sir Robert Chester pulled down the hall, sold the Timber, stone, and lead, and thereupon the suit was ended. The alms-houses remain in the Queen's hands, and people are there placed, such as can make best friends: some of them taking the pension appointed, have let forth their houses for great rent, giving occasion to the Parson of the parish to challenge tithes of the poor, etc. Next unto this is the small parish church of S. Etholburge virgin, Parish church of S. Etholburge. and from thence some small distance is a large court called little S. Helen's: because it pertained to the Nuns, of S. Helen's, priory of S. Helen's, and Almesehouses and was their house, there are seven Alms rooms or houses for the poor, belonging to the company of Lethersellers. Than somewhat more West is an other Court with a winding lane, through which men come out against the west end of S. Andrew's undershaft Church. In this court standeth the church of S. Helen's, sometime a Priory of black Nuns and in the same a parish church of S. Helen, Parish church of S. Hellen. this Priory long since was founded, before the reign of Henry the third, as I have found in Records. William Basin Deane of Paul's, was the first founder, and was there buried, and William Basin one of the Sheriffs of London, in the second year of Edward the second was holden also to be a founder, or rather an helper there: this priory being valued at 314. pound two shillings six pence was surrendered the 25. of November, the thirty of Henry the eight, the whole church (the partition betwixt the Nun's church, and parish church being taken down) remaineth now to the parish: and is a fair parish church, but wanteth such a steeple as Sir Thomas Gre●ham promised to have builded, in recompense of ground in their church filled up, with his monument. The Nun's hall & other housing thereunto appertaining, was since purchased by the Company of the Lethersellers, Le●thersellers hall. and is their common Hall: which Company was incorporate in the 21. year of Richard the second. In the Church of S. Helen, have ye these monuments of the dead: Thomas Langton Chaplain buried in the Choir, 1350. Nicholas Martial, Ironmonger Alderman, 1474. Sir William Sanctlo, and Sir William Sanctlo father and son, Sir William Pickering, and Sir William Pickering father and son, Thomas William's Gentleman, 1495. john Langthorpe Esquire, 1510. joan Coken wise to john Coken Esquire, 1509. Marry Orrell wife to Sir Lewis Orrell Knight. Henry Summer, Katheren his wife, joan daughter to Henry Summer, wife to Richard, son and heir to Robert Lord poyings, died a virgin 1420. Walter Huntingdon, Esquire, Elizabeth Venner wife to William Venner Grocer, Alderman, one of the Sheriffs, 1401. Robert Rochester Esquire sergeant of the pantry, to Henry the eight. john Swinflet, 1420. john Gower Steward of S. Helen's, 1512. john Faukconbridge Esquire, 1545. Hacket Gentleman of the kings Chapel, Elienor daughter to Sir Thomas Butler, Lord Sudley, john Suthworth, Adam Frances Maior Nicholas Harp●fielde, Esquire, Thomas Saunderforde or Somerforde Alderman, Alexander Cheyney, Sir john Crosby Alderman, and Anne his wife, George Fastolph, son to Hugh Fastolph, Robert Lynd, Sir Andrew jud Maior, Sir Thomas Gresham Mercer etc. Than have ye one great house called Crosby place, because the same was builded by Sir john Crosby Of crosby's place and of Sir john Crosby. Grocer, and Wolman, in place of certain Tenements, with their appurtenances let to him by Alice Ashfed Prioress of S. Helen's, and the Covent for ninety nine years, from the year 1466. unto the year 1565. for the annual rent of eleven pound six shillings eight pence: this house he builded of stone and timber, very large and beautiful, and the highest at that time in London: he was one of the Sheriffs, and an Alderman in the year 1470. knighted by Edward the fourth, in the year 1471. and deceased in the year 1475. so short a time enjoyed he that his large and sumptuous building, he was buried in S. Helen's, the parish church, a fair monument of him and his Lady, is raised there: he gave towards the reforming of that church five hundred marks, which was bestowed with the better, as appeareth by his Arms, both in the stone work, roof of Timber, and glazing. I hold it a fable said of him, to be named Crosby, of being found by a cross, for I have read of other to have that name of Crosby, before him, namely in the year 1406. the seventh of Henry the fourth, the said king gave to his servant john Crosby the wardship of joan daughter, and sole heir to john jordaine Fishmonger, etc. This Crosby might be the Father or Grandfather to Sir john Crosby. Richard Duke of Gloucester, and Lord Protector, afterward king by the name of Richard the third, was lodged in this house: since the which time among other, Anthony Bonuice a rich merchant of Italy, dwelled there, after him Jerome Serall, than William Bond Alderman, increased this house with building of a Turret on the top thereof: he deceased in the year, 1567. and was buried in S. Helen's church: divers Ambassadors have been lodged there: namely in the year 1586. Henry Ramelius Chancellor of Germany, Ambassador unto the Queen's Majesty of England from Frederick the second of Denmark: an Ambassador of France, etc. Sir john Spencer Alderman lately purchased this house, made great reparations, kept his Mayoralty there, and since builded a most large warehouse near thereunto. From this Crosby place up to Leaden hall corner, and so down Grassestreete, amongst other tenements, are divers fair and large builded houses for Merchants and such like. Now for the other side of this ward, namely the right hand, hard by within the gate is onefayre water Conduit, Water conduit at Bishopsgate. which Thomas Knesworth Maior, in the year 1505. founded, he gave 60.l. the rest was furnished at the common charges of the city: this conduit hath since been taken down, and new builded. David Wodrooffe Alderman gave twenty pounds towards the conveyance of more water thereunto. From this conduit have ye amongst many fair tenements, divers fair Inns, large for receipt of travelers and some houses for men of worship, namely one most spacious of all other there about, builded of brick and timber, by Sir Thomas Gresham, Sir Thomas Gresham's house builded. knight, who deceased in the year 1579. and was buried in S. Helen's church, under a fair monument, by him, prepared in his life he appointed by his Testament, this house to be made a College, as before is said of Readers. Somewhat west from this house is one other very fair house, wherein Sir William holies, kept his Mayoralty, and was buried in the parish church of S. Helen: Sir Andrew Iud● S. Andrew jud his almes● houses. also kept his Mayoralty there, and was buried at S. Helen's: he builded Almsehouses for six poor Almespeople near to the said parish church, and gave lands to the Skinners, out of the which they are to give 4. shillings every week to the six poor Almespeople eight pence the piece, and five and twenty shillings four pence, the year in coals amongst them for ever. Than in the very west corner over against the East end of S. Martins Otswitch, church (from whence the street windeth towards the South) you had of old time a fair well with two buckets so fastened, that the drawing up of the one, let down the other, but now of late that weil is turned into a Pump. From this to the corner over against the Leaden hall, and so down Grass street, are many fair houses for merchants, and artificers, and many fair Inns for travelers even to the corner where that ward endeth, over against Grass church: and thus much for this Bishopsgate ward shall suffice, which hath an Alderman, two Deputies, one without the gate another within, common Counsellors six, Constables seven, Scavenger's seven, for Wardmote inquest thirteen, and a Beadle: it is taxed to the fifteen at xxij. ●. in London, and in the Exchequer xxi. ●. x. ●. Brodestreete ward. THe next is Brodestreete ward, Brodestreete ward. which beginneth within Bishopsgate, from the water conduit westward on both the sides of the street, by All-hallows Church to an iron grate on the Channel, which runneth into the watercourse of Walbrooke before ye come to the Postern called Moregate: and this is the farthest west part of that Ward. Than have ye Brodestreete, whereof the ward taketh name, which stretcheth out of the former street, from the East corner of All-hallows churchyard, somewhat South to the parish church of S. Peter the Poor on both sides, and then by the southgate of the Augustine Friars west, down Throkmorton street by the Draper's hall, into Lothburie, to another grate of iron over the channel there, whereby the water runneth into the course of Walbroke, certain posts of timber are there set up: and this is also the farthest West part of this ward, in the said street. Out of the which street runneth up Barthlemew lane south to the north side of the Exchange, then more East out of the former street from over against the Friars Augustine's church south gate, runneth up another part of Brodestréet, south to a Pump over against S. Bennets church. Than have ye one other street called Three needle street, Three needl● street. beginning at the well with two buckets, by Saint Martins Otoswich church wall. This street runneth down on both sides to Finkes lane, and half way up that lane to a gate of a merchants house on the West side, but not so far on the East, than the foresaid street, from this Finkes lane runneth down by the Royal Exchange to the Stocks, and to a place formerly called Scalding house, or Scalding wick, but now Scalding Alley, by the West side whereof under the parish church of S. Mildred runneth the course of Walbrooke: and these be the bounds of this ward. Special Monuments therein are these: First the parish church of All-hallows in the wall, Parish church of Alhallowe● in the wall. so called of standing close to the wall of the city, in which have been buried Thomas Durrem Esquire, and Margaret his wife. On the other side of that street, amongst many proper houses possessed for the most part by curriers is the Carpenter's hall: Carpenter's hall. which company was incorporated in the 17. year of King Edward the fourth. Than East from the Curriers row, currier's row● is a long and high wall of stone enclosing the North side of a large garden adjoining to as large an house, builded in the reign of King Henry the eight, and of Edward the sixth, by Sir William Powlet, the Lord Treasurer of England: through this garden which of old time consisted of divers parts, now united, was sometimes a fair foot way, Lane stopped up. leading by the west end of the Augustine Friars church strait North, and opened somewhat West from All-hallows church against London wall towards Moregate: which foot way had gates at either end locked up every night: but now the same being taken into those gardens, the gates are closed up with stone, whereby the people are forced to go about by S. Peter's church, and the East end of the said friars Church, and all the said great place and garden of Sir William Powlet Sir William Powlet L. Treasurer his house. Brodestreet. to London wall, and so to Moregate. This great house adjoining to the garden aforesaid, stretcheth to the North corner of Brodestréete, and then turns up Brodestréete all that side to the East end of the said Friars church. It was builded by the said Lord Treasurer, in place of Augustine Friars house, cloister, and gardens etc. The friars church he pulled not down, but the west end thereof enclosed from the steeple, and choir is let to the Dutch nation in London to be their preaching place: the other part, namely, the steeple, choir and side isles he reserved to household uses: as for stowage of corn, coal and other things, his son and heir the Marquis of Winchester, sold the Monuments of noble men there buried in great number, the paving stone, and whatsoever (which cost many thousands) for one hundred pound, and in place thereof made fair stabling for horses, he caused the lead to be taken off the roofs of the church, and laid tile in place thereof, which exchange of lead for tile, proved not so profitable as he looked for, but rather to his disadvantage. On the East side of this Brodestreete, which is the back part of Gresham house Sir Thomas Gresham's alm●s houses in Bishopsgate street, be placed eight proper Alms houses, builded of brick and timber, by Sir Thomas Gresham Knight, for eight alms men there placed rend free, and receive each of them by his gift vj. pound, xiii. shillings, iiij. pence, yearly for ever. Next unto Pawlet house, is the parish church of S. Peter the Poor, so called for a difference from other of that name, sometime peradventure a poor parish, but at this present there be many fair houses, possessed by rich merchants and other, buried in this church: Richard Fitz William's merchant Taylor 1520. Sir William Roch Mayor, 1540 Martin Calthrope Mayor's 1588. Than next have ye the Augustine Friars Church Friar Augu●tines Church, part whereof is the Dutch church. aforesaid, a large thing having a most fine spired steeple, small, high, and straight, I have not s●ene the like: this Church was founded by Humphrey Bohum Earl of Hereforde and Essex, in the year 1253. Reginald Cobham gave his messsage in London to the enlarging thereof, in the year 1344. Humphrey Bohum Earl of Hereford and Essex re-edified this Church in the year 1354. whose body was there buried in the choir. The small spired steeple of this church was overthrown by tempest of wind, in the year 1362. but was raised of new as now it standeth, to the beautifying of the city: This house was valued at 57 pound etc. and was surrendered the 12. of November, the 30. of Henry the eight. There lie buried in this friars church (amongst others) Edmond first son to joane mother to king Richard the second, Guy de Maricke Earl of S. Paul, Dame Ide, wife to Sir Thomas West, Dame Margaret West, Stephen Lindericle Esquire, Sir Humphrey Bohum Earl of Hereford and Essex, Lord of Pembroke, Richard the great Earl of Arundel, Surrey, and Warren beheaded, 1397. Sir Edward Arundel, and Dame Elizabeth his wife, Sir Francis Courtney, Earl of Pembroke, which married Alice sister to the Earl of Oxford: Dame Lucy Knowles of Kent, Sir Peter Grinfers of France, the Lord Vere Earl of Oxford, Ambrose de Vere, son to the Earl of Oxford, Sir Thomas Tadnam Knight, William Bourser, Lord Fitz Warren, Sir Thomas de la Land Knight, Dame joane Noris the Lady of Bedforde, Anne daughter to john Viscount Welles, Walter Nevel Esquire, Sir john Manners Knights the wife of Sir David Cradocke knight, the mother to the Lord Spencer's wife, Sir Bartholomew Dadlegate, john son to Sir john Wingfield, Sir Walter Mews, Robert ne Wenton Esquire, Philip Spencer son to Sir Hugh Spencer, Dame Isabella daughter to Sir Hugh. In the body of the church, Dame julian wife to Sir Richard Lacie, Sir Thomas Courtney son to the Earl of Devonshire, and by him his sister, wedded to Cheverstone, the daughter of the Lord Beaumont, two sons of Sir Thomas Morley, to wit William and Ralph, Sir William Talmage Knight, Nicholas blondel Esquire, Sir Richard Chamberlain Esquire, john Halton gentleman, Sir john Gifford Knight, Thomas Manningham Esquire, Sir William Kenude Knight, Sir William son to Sir Thomas Terrill, john Surell gentleman. In the east wing Margaret Barentin gentlewoman, john Spicer Esquire, and Letis his wife, john le Percers Esquire, Roger Chibary Esquire, Peter Morens Esquire, Thomas son to Sir William Beckland. james Cuthing Esquire, john Chornet Esquire, William Kenley Esquire, Margery wife to Thomas Band & daughter to john Huch, the Lord Mawris of Barkeley, & Earl of Nothingham, and Dame joane his wife. In the west wing Sir john Terrell, and Dame Katherine his wife, Sir Walter of paul Knight, Sir john Blanckwell and his wife, Dame jane Sayne, daughter to Sir john Lee, Sir john Dawbeny, son and heir to Sir Giles Dawbeny, William son to Sir Roger Scroop, Dame joane Dawbeny wife to Sir William Dawbeny, Thomas Charles Esquire, Sir john Dawbeny knight, and his son Robert, Sir james Bell Knight, Sir Oliver many Knight, Henry Desky Esquire, Sir Diones Mordaske Knight, Sir Bernard Rolingcort, Sir Peter Kayor knights, Sir William Tirell knight, Sir William his brother, William Collingborne Esquire beheaded 1484. Sir Roger Clifford knight, Sir Thomas Coke Mayor in the year 1462. William Edward Mayor 1471. Sir john Dawtry Knight 1519. Dame Margaret Rade 1510. On the south side and at the West end of this Church many fair houses are builded, namely in Throgmorton street, Throgmorton street. one very large and spacious, builded in the place of old and small tenements, by Thomas Cromwell master of the king's jewel house, after that Master of the Rolls, than Lord Cromwell T. Cromwell his house. Knight Lord privy seal, Uicker General, Earl of Essex, high Chamberlain of England etc. This house being finished, and having some reasonable plot of ground left for a garden, he caused the pales of the gardens adjoining to the north part thereof on a sudden to be taken down 22. foot to be measured forth right into the north of every man's ground, a line there to be drawn, a trench to be cast, a foundation laid, and a high brick wall to be builded: my father had a garden there, he had also an house standing close to his wall, this house they loosed from the ground, and carried on rollers into my father's garden, 22. foot ere my father heard thereof, no warning was given him, nor other answer when he heard thereof, and spoke to the surveyors of that wirke, but that their master, Sir Thomas commanded them so to do, no man durst go to argue the matter, but each man lost his land: and so much of mine own knowledge have I thought good to note, that the sudden rising of some men, causeth them in some matters to forget themselves. The company of the Drapers The Draper's hall. in London bought this house, and now the same is their common hall, this company obtained of king Henry the sixth, in the 17. of his reign to be incorporate. john Gidney was chosen to be their first M. & the 4. wardens were, I. Wotton, I. Derby, Robert Breton, & T. Cook. The arms The Draper's arms. granted to the said company by Sir William Bridges Knight, first Gartier, or principal King at Arms of England in Blazon are thus: Three sun beams issuing out of three clouds of flame, crowned with three crowns imperials of gold, upon a shield Azure. From this hall on the same side down to the grates and course of Walbrooke have ye divers fair houses for merchants and other, from the which grates, back again on the other side in Lethbury Lethbury, or Lothbury. (so called in record of Edward the third. the 38. year, (and now corruptly called Lothbury) are candlestick founder's placed, till ye come to Bartholemew lane, Bartholemew lane. so called of S. Bartholmews church, at the southeast corner thereof. In this lane also are divers fair builded houses on both sides, and so likewise have ye in the other street, which stretcheth from the Friars Augustins South gate, to the corner over against S. Bennets church. In this street amongst other fair buildings the most ancient was of old time an house pertaining to the Abbot Abbot of S. Alban's his Inn. of S. Albon, john Catcher Alderman now dwelleth there: then is there a large Free school Free school at S. Anthony's Hospital Three needle street. pertaining to the late dissolved Hospital of S. Anthony: in this school hath been many good scholars trained up Now in three needle street, on the south part thereof, the first monument at the east end by the well with 2. buckets or pump is the parish Church of S. Martin, S. Martins Otoswich a parish church. called Oteswich, of William Oteswich, and john Otoswich his son new founders thereof. There be monuments in this Church, of William Constantine Alderman, and Emme his wife. Katherine wife to Benedick Augustine, Sir William Drifield knight, john Oteswich and his wife, under a fair monument on the south side, john Churchman one of the Sheriffs in the year 1385. Richard Naylor Taylor Alderman 1483. james Falleron, john Melchborne, Thomas hay and Ellis his wife, William Clitherow and Margaret his wife, Oliver and William sons to john Woodrofe Esquire, Hugh Pemberton Taylor Alderman, 1500. and Katherine his wife, Matthew Pemberton Merchant Tailor about 1514. he gave 50. pound to the repairing of S. Laurence chapel. The aforesaid john Churchman for William and john Oteswich by licence of Henry the fourth, the 6. of his reign gave the advowson or patronage of this church, four messages & 17. shops with the appurtenances in the parish of S. Martins Oteswich etc. to the master and Wardens of Tailors and linen armourers, keepers of the Gwild, and fraternity of S. john Baptist in London, and to their successors in perpetual alms, to be employed on the poor brethren and sisters: whereupon (adjoining unto the West end of this parish church) the said master & wardens builded about a proper quadrant or squared court, seven alms houses, Tailors and linen armourers their alms houses. wherein they placed seven alms men, of that company, and their wives (if they had wives) each of these 7. of old time had xiv. ●. the week, but now of later time their stipend by the said master and Wardens hath been augmented to the sum of xxuj. ●. the quarter, which is v. pound iiij. ●. the year to each of them besides coals, more to each of them xx●. the year by gift of Walter Fish sometime master of that company and Tailor to her Majesty. Some small distance from thence is the Merchant tailors hall, Tailors and linen armourers hall. pertaining to the Guild and fraternity of S. john Baptist, time out of mind, called of Tailors, Antiquity of the tailors feast by authority. and linen armourers of London, for I found that King Edward the first in the 28. of his reign confirmed this Guild by the name of Tailors and linen armourers: and also gave to the brethren thereof authority every year at midsummer to hold a feast, A pilgrim to travail for the Tailors now called master purveyors of alms now called Wardens. and to choose unto them a governor, or master with Wardens: whereupon the same year 1300. on the feast day of the nativity of Saint john Baptist, they chose Henry de Ryall to be their pilgrim for the master of this mystery (as one that traveled for the whole company) was then so called until the 11. of Richard the second: and the four wardens were then called purveyors of alms, (now called quarterage) of the said fraternity. This Merchant tailors tailors purchase their hall. hall sometime pertaining to a worshipful gentleman named Edmond Crepin: he in the year of Christ 1331. the sixth of Edward the third, for a certain sum of money to him paid, made his grant thereof by the name of his principal messsage in the wards of Cornhill, and Brodestréet, which Sir Oliver Ingham knight did then hold, to John of Yakesley the king's pavilion maker. tailors hall. The 21. of Edward the fourth, Thomas Clarentius principal king of heralds, for the south part of England, granted by his patents to the said fraternity and guild of S. John Baptist, of Tailors and linen armourers, The merchant Tailors armest to bear in a field silver, a pavilion between two mantles imperial, purple, garnished with gold, in a chief Azure an holy lamb, set within a sun, the crest upon the helm, a pavilion purple garnished with gold & c● After this King Henry the seventh, being himself a brother of this fraternity, or gild of S. john Baptist of Tailors and linen Tailors & linen armourers incorporate merchant Tailors. armourers (as divers other his predecessors Kings before him had been, to wit Richard the third, Edward the fourth, Henry the sixth, Henry the fift, Henry the fourth, & Richard the second: And for that divers of that fraternity had time out of mind, been great merchants, and had frequented all sorts of merchandises into most parts of the world, to the honour of the king's realm, and to the great profit of his subjects, & of his progenitors and the men of the said mystery during the time aforesaid, had exercised the buying and selling of all wares and merchandises, especially of woollen cloth, as well in gross, as by retail, throughout all this realm of England, and chief within the said city, therefore he of his especial grace did change, transfer and translate the Guild aforesaid, and did incorporate them into the name of the master and wardens of the Merchant Tailors, of the fraternity of S. john Baptist in the city of London. Some distance West from this the Merchant tailors hall, is Finkes lane, Finke lane● so called of Robert Finke, and Robert Finke his son, james Finke, and Rosamund Finke. Robert Finke the elder new builded the parish Church of Saint Bennet, commonly called Finke of the founder, his tenements were both of Saint Bennets parish, and S. Martins Otelwich parish: the one half of this Finke lane is of Brodestréete ward. to wit, on the west side up to the great and principal house, and the same house wherein the said Finke dwelled: but on the other side namely the East not so much towards Cornhill: then without this lane in the foresaid three needle street, is the said parish Church of Saint Bennet, a proper Church, Parish Church of S. Bennet Finke. in which are these monuments of the dead. Robert Simpson and Elizabeth his wife, Roger Strange Esquire, Trerisse, William Coolby, john Frey, Thomas Briar Plommer, 1410. etc. Some distance west is the Royal Exchange, whereof more shallbe spoken in the ward of Cornhill, and so down to the little Conduit, called the pissing Conduit, by the Stocks market, and this is the south side of three needle street. On the North side of this street from over against the East corner of S. Martins Oteswich Church, have ye divers fair and large houses till you come to the hospital Hospital of S. Anthony sometime a Synagogue of the jews. of S. Anthony, sometime a Cell to S. Anthony's of Vienna. For I read that King Henry the third granted to the brotherhood of S. Anthony of Vienna, a place amongst the jews, which was sometime their Synagogue, Patent record. and had been builded by them about the year 1231 but the christians obtained of the king that it should be dedicated to our blessed Lady, and since an Hospital being there builded, was called S. Anthony's in London: it was founded in the parish of S. Bennet Finke, for a master, two priests, one schoolmaster, and 12. poor men: after this foundation amongst other things given to this Hospital, one was a messsage and garden, and one other parcel of ground contained 37. foot in length, and 18. foot in breadth in the parish of ●. Bennet Finke: this was given to the Master of the Hospital, to the enlarging of their Church and house to the same belonging, for a master, fourteen priests, etc. in the seventh of Henry the sixth. King Henry the sixth his gift to S. Anthony's Hospital. Moreover king Henry the sixth, in the twentieth of his reign gave unto john Carpenter Doctor of divinity, master of S. Anthony's hospital, and to his brethren and their successors for ever his manor of Poninghton with the appurtenances, with certain pensions & portions of Milborn, Turneworth, Charlton, & up Wimborne, in the county of Southampton towards the maintenance of 5. scholars in the university of Oxford to be brought up in the faculty of arts, after the rate of ten pence the week, for every Scholar: so that the said Scholars before their going to Oxford, be first instructed in their rudiments of Grammar, at the College of Eton, founded by the said king. In the year 1474. Edward the fourth granted to William Say, bachelor of Divinity, master of the Hospital of S. Anthony, to have Priests, Clerks, Scholars, poor men, and Brethrens of the same Clarks or Lay men, choristers, Proctors, Messengers, Servants in Household, and other things whatsoever, the like as the Prior and Covent of S. Anthony's, of Vienna, etc. This Hospital was annexed, united, and appropriated unto the Colegiate Church of S. George in Windsor, about the year 1485, (as was reported) by Sir Anthony Baker (master of the said Hospital,) to Sir john Wolsborne knight, and other commissioners in the seven and thirtieth of Henry the eight, since the said annexing, to wit in the year 1499 the fourteenth of Henry the seventh, Sir john Tate john Tate his gift to S. Anthony's Hospital. sometime Ale Bruer, than a Merser, caused his Brew house called the Swan, near adjoining to the said, Free Chapel, College, or Hospital, of S. Anthony, to be taken down, for the enlarging of the Church, which was then newly builded: toward the building whereof the said Tate gave great sums of money. This goodly foundation having a free school and Almshouses Free School and Almosehouses. for poor men (builded of hard stone) adjoining to the west end of the Church, was of old time confirmed by Henry the sixth in the year 1447. The outward work of this new church was finished in the year 1501. the said john Tate deceased about the year 1514. and was there buried in a monument by him prepared, as appeareth by an indenture tripartite, made between the said john Tate, the Dean of Windsor, and William Milborne Chamberlain. Walter Champion Draper, one of the Sheriffs of London, 1529. was buried there, and gave to the Beademen twenty pound. The lands by year of this Hospital were valued in the seven and thirty of Henry the eight to be fifety five pound, six shillings eight pence. One johnson (a Schoolmaster there) became a Prehendarie of Windsor, and then by little and little followed the spoil of this Hospital: he first dissolved the Choir, conveyed the plate and ornaments, than the Bells, and lastly put out the Alms men Alms men put from their houses at S. Anthony's Hospital from their houses, appointing them portions of twelve pence the week to each (but now I hear of no such matter) their houses with other be now let out for rent, and the Church is a preaching place for the French nation. This School house was commanded in the reign of Henry the sixth, and sithence also above other: but now it is decayed, and come to nothing, by taking from it, what thereunto belonged. Next is the Parish Church of Saint Bartilmew Free school of S. Anthony's decayed● parish church of S. Bartilmew at the end of Bartholomew Lane, Thomas Pike Alderman, with the help of Nicholas You, one of the Sheriffs of London, in the year 1438. new builded this church, and were there buried: Sir john Frey knight, and Alderban, a Gascoigne, were buried there. Sir William cappel Maior, 1509. added unto this Church a proper Chapel on the south side thereof, and was buried there: Sir Giles Chapel, james Wilforde. Taylor, one of the Sheriffs, 1499. appointed by his Testament, a Doctor of Divinity, every Good Friday, for ever to preach there, of Christ's Passion, from six of the clock, till 8. before noon, in the said Church: john Wilforde Marchant-Taylor Alderman, 1544. Sir james Wilforde, 1550. Sir George Barn Mayor, 1552. etc. Than lower down towards the Stocks market is the parish Church of S. Christopher, parish church of S. Christopher. but re-edified to new: for Richard Shore one of the Sheriffs, 1506. gave money towards the building of the steeple. There lie buried Richard Sherington 1392. who gave lands to that Church: the Lady Margaret Norforde 1406. john Clauering 1421. who gave lands thereunto: john Gidney Maior, 1427. William Hampton Maior, 1472. was a great benefactor, and glazed some of the Church windowes● Sir William Martin Maior 1492. Roger Achley Maior, 1511. Robert thorn Merchant Taylor, 1532. he gave by his Testament in Charity more than four thousand four hundred forty five pound. john Norryholme, Ralph Batte, Alice Percivall, jane Drew, William Borresbie, john Beck Richard Sutten, William Batte, james Well, Henry Beacher Alderman, 1570. West from this Church have ye Scalding Alley, of old time, called Scalding house, or Scalding Wike, Scalding house or Scalg●●d wick. because that ground for the most part was then employed by Poulters, that dwelled in the high street, from the Stocks market to the great Conduit. Their Poultry which they sold at their stalls were scalded there, the street doth yet bear the name of the Poultry, and the Poulters are but lately departed from thence into other streets as into Grass street, and to the ends of S. Nicholas flesh shambleses. This Scalding Wike is the farthest west part of Brodestreete ward, and is by the water called Walbrooke, parted from Cheap ward: this Brodestreete ward hath an Alderman with his Deputy, common Counsellors ten, Constables ten, Scavenger's eight, Wardmote inquest thirteen, and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen, in London, at seven and twenty pound, and accounted in the Exchequer after twenty five pound. Cornhill Warde. THe next ward towards the south, is Cornhill ward, Cornhill ward so called of a corn market, time out of mind there holden, and is a part of the principal high street, beginning at the west end of Leaden hall, stretching down west on both the sides by the south end of Finckes lane, on the right hand, and by the North end of birchover's lane, on the left part of which lanes, to wit, to the middle of them is of this ward and so down to the Stocks market, and this is the bounds of this Ward. The upper, or East part of this Ward, and also a part of Lymestreete ward hath been (as I said) a market place, especially for Corn, and since for all kind of victuals, as is partly showed in Limestreete ward, yet it appeareth of record, that in the year 1522. the Rippars of Rye and other places sold their fresh fish in Leaden hall market, upon Cornhill, but foreign Butchers were not admitted, there to sell flesh till the year 1533. & shortly after it was enacted, that the said Butchers & other should sell their beef and mutton by weight, Fleshmarket at Leadenhal and alteration of prices in a short time. to wit beef not above a halfpennie the pound, and mutton halfpenny half farthing: which act being devised for the great commodity of the realm, (as it was then thought) hath since proved far otherways, for before that time a fat ox was sold at London, for six and twenty shillings 8. ●. at the most, a fat Weather for three shillings 4. pence, a fat Calf the like price, a fat Lamb for twelve pence, pieces of beef weighed two pounds and a half, at the lest, yea three pound or better for a penny on every Butcher's stall in this City: and of those pieces of beef thirteen or fourteen for twelve pence, fat mutton for eight pence the quarter, and one hundred weight of beef for four shillings eight pence at the dearest: What the price is now, I need not to set down, many men thought the same to raise in price: by mean that every Grazier knew or supposed what weight every their beasts contained, and so raising their price thereafter, the Butcher could be no gainer, but by likewise raising his price: but the true causes of enhansing the prices both of those and other victuals are not to be disputed here. etc. The Foreign Butchers for a long time stood in the high street of Limestreete ward, twice every week uz. Wednesday and Saturday, and were some gain to the Tennantes' before whose doors they stood, and into whose houses they set their blocks and stalls, on the north side of that street, but that advantage being espied, they were taken into Leaden hall, there to pay for their standing to the Chamber of London. Thus much for the market upon Cornhill. The chief ornaments in Cornhill ward are these. First at the East end thereof, in the middle of the high street, and at the parting of four ways, have ye a water standard, placed there in the year 1582. in manner following. A certain Germane of Dutch man borne, named Peter Morris, having made an Artificial Forcier, for that purpose, conveyed Thames water in pipes of Lead, Standard of Thames water by Leaden hall. over the steeple of S. Magnus' Church, at the north end of London bridge, and from thence into divers men's houses, in Thames street, New fish street and Grassestreete, up to the northwest corner of Leaden hall, the highest ground of all the City, The highest ground of the City of London. where the waist of the main pipe rising into this Standard (provided at the charges of the City) with four spouts runneth four ways, plentifully serving to the commodity of the inhabitants near adjoining in their houses, and also cleanseth the Channels of the street towards Bishopsgate, Aldegate, the Bridge, and the Stocks market. Than have ye a fair Conduit of sweet water, castellated in the midst of that ward and street. This Conduit was first builded of stone, in the year, 1282. by Henry Walls, Mayor of London, to be a prison for night walkers, & other suspicious persons, and was called the Tun upon Cornhill, The Tun upon Cornhill a prison house because the same was builded somewhat in fashion of a Ton standing on the one end. Also without the West side of this Tun, was a fair well A fair well upon Cornhill. of springing water, kerbed round with hard stone. In the year 1298. certain principal Citizens of London, broke up this prison called the Tun, and took out certain prisoners for the which they were sharply punished by long imprisonment, & great fines, as in another place I have showed. In the year 1401. this prison house called the Tun was made a Cistern for sweet water conveyed by pipes of Lead from the town of Tyburn, and was from thence forth called the conduit upon Cornhill: Conduit upon Cornhill. Than was the wall planked over, and a strong prison made of Timber, called a Cage, with a pair of stocks set upon it, on the top of which Cage was placed a Pillory for the punishment of Bakers offending in the Assize of Bread: for Miller's stealeing of Corn at the Mill: and for bawds and scolds etc. Cage, stocks and pillorieupon Cornhill. In the year 1475. R. Drop Mayor, dwelling in that ward enlarged the cistern of this Conduit, with an east end of stone, and lead castelated in comely manner. In the year 1546. Sir Martin Bowes Maior dwelling in Lombard street, and having his back gate opening into Cornhill against the said Conduit, Conduit upon Cornhill enlarged. minded to have enlarged the Cistern thereof with a west end, like as Robert Drop before had done toward the East: view and measure of the plot was taken, for this work, but the Pillory and Cage being removed, they found the ground planked, and the well aforesaid (worn out of memory) which well they revived and restored to use, they set the Pillory somewhat west from the well, and so this work ceased. On the North side of this street, from the East unto the West have ye divers fair houses for merchants and other, amongst the which one large house is called the Wey house, where merchandises brought from beyond the seas, are to be weighed at the kings Beam: The way house or kings Beam upon Cornhill. This house hath a master, and under him four master Portars, with Portars under them: they have a strong cart, and were used to have four great horses, to draw and carry the wares from the merchants houses to the beam & back again: now three horses serve the turn. Sir Thomas Lovel Sir Thomas Lovel his gift to the Grocers. knight builded this house, with a fair front of tenements towards the street, all which he gave to the Grocers of London, himself being free of the City, and a brother of that Company. Than have ye the said Finckes lane, the southend of which lane on both the sides is in Cornhill ward. Than next is the Royal Exchange erected. The Burse upon Cornhill, or the Royal Exchange. In the year 1566. after this order, uz. certain houses upon Cornhill, and the like upon the back thereof, in the ward of Brodestreete, with three Allies, the first called Swan Alley, Swan Alley. opening into Cornhill, the second called New Alley, New Alley. passing throughout of Cornhill into Brodstreete ward, over against S. Bartilmew lane, the third called S. Christopher's Alley, S. Christopher's Alley. opening into Brodestreete ward, and into S. Christopher's Parish, containing in all fourscore households: Eighty houses displaced for building of the Burse. were first purchased by the Citizens of London, for more than 353●. ●. and were sold for 478 ●. to such persons as should take them down, and carry the stuff from thence, also the ground or plot was made plain at the charges of the City, The City charged with buildings of the Burse. and then possession thereof was by certain Aldermen, in name of the whole Citizens given to Sir Thomas Gresham knight, Agent to the Queen's Highness, thereupon to build a burse, or place, for Merchants, to assemble in, at his own proper charges: and be on the seventh of june laying the first stone of the foundation, being Brick, accompanied with some Aldermen, every of them laid a piece of gold, which the workmen took up, and forthwith followed upon the same with such diligence, that by the month of november in the 1567. the same was covered with slate, & shortly after fully finished. In the year a thousand five hundred seventy on the 23. of januarie, the Queen's Majesty, Queen Elizabeth came to the Burse. attended with her Nobility, came from her house at the Strande called Somerset house, and entered the city, by Temple Bar, through Fléetestreete, Cheap, and so by the North side of the Burse, to Sir Thomas Greshams in Bishopsgate street, where she dined, after dinner her Majesty returning through Cornhill entered the Burse on the southside, and after that she had viewed every part thereof above the ground, especially the Pawn, which was richly furnished with all sorts of the finest wares in the City: she caused the same Burse by an Herald and a Trumpet to be proclaimed the Royal Exchange, and so to be called from thence forth and not otherwise. Next adjoining to this Royal Exchange The Burse called the Royal Exchange. remaineth one part of a large stone house, and is now called the Castle of such a sign, at a Tavern door there is a passage throughout of Cornhill, into Three needle street, the other part of the said stone house was taken down, for enlarging the Royal Exchange: this stone house was said of some to have been a Church (whereof it had no proportion,) of others a Iewes house (as though none but jews had dwelled in stone houses) but that opinion is without warrant: for in the first year of Richard the first, to prevent the casualties of fire (which often had happened in the City, when the houses were builded of Timber, The cause of stone houses builded in London. and covered with Reed or Straw, Henry Fitz Alewin being Mayor, it was decreed that from thencforth no man should build within the City, but of stone, until a certain height, and to cover the same building with slate, or brent tile, and this was the very cause of such stone buildings, whereof many have remained till our time: but of late for winning of ground, they have been taken down, & in place of some one of them being low, as but two stories above the ground, many houses of four or five stories high are placed. From this stone house down to the Stocks, are divers large houses especially for height, for Merchants and Artificers. On the south side of this high street is the parish church of S. Peter upon Cornhill, Parish Church of S. Peter upon Cornhill. which seemeth to be of an ancient building: but yet not so ancient as some reporteth, for it hath been all lately repaired, if not new builded, except the steeple, which is ancient: the roof of this Church, and glazing was finished in the reign of Edward the fourth, as appeareth by Arms of Noble men, and Aldermen of London then living, there remaineth in this Church a table wherein it is written, I know not by what authority, but of a late hand, that king Lucius founded the same Church, to be an Archbishop's sea, and made it the Metropolitan, and chief Church of his kingdom, and that it so endured the space of four hundred years, unto the coming of Augustine the Monk. joceline of Furneiss writeth, that Thean the first Archbishop of London, in the reign of Lucius, builded the said Church by the aid of Ciran, chief Butler to king Lucius, and also that Eluanus the second Archbishop, builded a Library Library of S. Peter's upon Cornhill now a Grammar school. to the same church adjoining, and converted many of the Druids, learned men in the Pagan law to Christianity. True it is that a Library there was pertaining to this Parish Church of old time builded of stone, and of late repaired with Brick, by the Executors of Sir john Crosby Alderman, as his Arms on the south end doth witness. This Library hath been of late time, to wit, within these fifety years well furnished of books, john Leyland john Leyland. viewed and commended them, but now those books be gone, and the place is occupied by a Schoolmaster, and his Usher, over a number of scholars learning their Grammar rules etc. Notwithstanding before that time, a Grammar school had been kept in this Parish as appeareth, in the five and twenty of Henry the sixth, it was enacted by Parliament, that four Grammar schools Grammar schooles●commanded by Parliament. in London, should be maintained, uz. In the parishes of All-hallowes, in Thames street. S. Andrew in Oldboorne, S. Peter upon Cornhill, and S. Thomas of Acars. The monuments of the dead in this Church be these, of Sir William Bowyer Maior 1543. Sir Henry Huberthorn Maior, 1546. Sir Christopher Morrice, Master Gunner of England, to king Henry the eight, Edward Elrington Esquire, chief Butler to Edward the sixth, and divers other that be defaced. Than have ye the parish church of S. Michael Tharchangel, parish church of S● Michael. which hath been a fair and beautiful Parish Church. But of late years greatly blemished by the building of four tenements on the North side thereof towards the street, in place of a green churchyard, whereby the church is greatly darkened, and otherwise annoyed, the fair new steeple or bell Tower was begun to be new builded in the 1421. which being finished, and a fair ring of five bells therein placed. One Russee a Draper gave a sixth Bell, which he named Russee after his own name, to be nightly rung at eight of the clock: which bell usually rung by one man more than 100 years, of late over hailed by 4. or 5. at once, hath been thrice broken, and therefore not rung as heretofore. Robert Drop Mayor buried 1485. on the North side of the Choir, under a fair Tomb of Grace marble, gave to maids marriaiges 20. pound, to the poor of that Ward 10. pound, shirts and smocks 300. to the poor at his burial 16. pound, gowns of brodecloth to the poor 100 to prisons, Hospitals and Lazare houses liberally: he also gave his house in Cornhill to be sold, and the price thereof to be spent on the amendment of high ways: johane his wife afterwards Vice Countess Lisle was also buried there by her first husband, 1500. She gave fourscore and ten pounds in money, to the beautifying of that church, notwithstanding the Tomb of them both is pulled down and no monument remaineth of them. Peter Houghton late Alderman is now buried in their vault 1596. john Grace Draper was buried 1439. Robert Fabian Alderman, that wrote and published a Chronicle of England and of France, 1511. lieth there with this Epitaph. Like as the day his course doth consume, And the new morrow springeth again as fast, So man and woman by nature's custom, This life to pass, at last in earth are cast, Enjoy and sorrow, which he●● their time do waste, Never in one state, but in course transitory, So full of change is of this world the glory. His Monument is gone. Elizabeth Peak widow gave the Patronage or gift of the benefice to the Drapers, and lieth buried in the belfry 1518. Richard Garneham 1527. Edmond Trindel and Robert Smith my Godfathers, William Dickson and Margaret his wife my Godmother did lie in the cloister under a fair Tomb, now defaced. Thomas Stow and Thomas Stow my grandfather and father: john Tolus john Tolus his gift. Alderman 1548. he gave to john Willowby Parson of that Church to Thomas Lodge, G. Hind, P. Bold Churchwardens, and to their successors towards the reparations of that Church and the relief of the poor for ever, his tenement with the appurtenances in the parish of S. Michael which he had lately purchased, of Aluery Randolph of Badlesmeer in Kent: but the parish never had the gift (nor heard thereof by the space of 40. years after) such was the conscience of the executors to conceal it to themselves, and such is the negligence of the parishioners (that being informed thereof) make no claim thereunto. Philip Gonter that was Alderman for a time, and gave 400. pound to be discharged thereof, was buried in the cloister about the year 1482. and Anne his wife etc. This parish church hath on the south side thereof a proper cloister, and a fair church yard, with a pulpit cross, not much unlike to that in Paul's Churchyard. Sir john Hudstone Mayor, caused the same in his life time to be builded, and he deceased, 1531. and was buried in a vault under the said pulpit cross, Pulpit cross in S. Michael church yard. he appointed lands for sermons to be preached there, but that is gone, and his Tomb of marble, before the pulpit is taken away, amongst others, namely of Doctor Yaxly one of the Physicians to King Henry the eight that was buried there with his wife, under a Tomb of marble. Than have ye Burcheovers lane, Burcheovers lane. so called of Birchover, the first builder and owner thereof, now corruptly called Birchen lane, the North half whereof is of the said Cornhill ward, the other part is of Langborne ward. This lane and the high street near adjoining hath been inhabited for the most part with wealth Drapers from birchover's lane on that side the stéete down to the Stocks: in the reign of Henry the sixth, had ye for the most part dwelling Fripperers or Upholders, Upholders sellers of old stuff in Cornhill. that sold old apparel and household stuff. I have read of a country man, that then having lost his hood in Westminster Hall, found the same in Cornhill hanged out to be sold, which he challenged, but was forced to buy, or go without it, for their stall (they said) was their market. About this time also the Wine drawer of the Pope's head Tavern Pope's head Tavern in Cornhill. (standing without the door in the high street) took the same man by the sleeve, and said, sir will you drink a pint of wine: Wine one pint for a penny, & bread to drink it was given free in every Tavern. whereunto be answered, a penny spend I may, and so drunk his pint, for bread nothing did he pay. This Pope's head Tavern, with other houses adjoining, strongly builded of stone, hath of old time been all in one, pertaining to some great estate, or rather to the King of this realm, The king's house in Cornhill. as may be supposed both by the largeness thereof, and by the arms, to wit, three Lions passant, which was the whole arms of England, before the reign of Edward the third, that quartered them with the Arms of France, three Flower de Luce's. These Arms of England supported Arms of England supported by Angels. between two Angels, are fair and largely graven in stone on the fore front towards the high street, over the door or stawle of one great house, lately for many years possessed by M. Philip Guntar, the Pope's head Tavern is on the back part thereof, towards the south, as also one other house called the stone house in Lombard street. Others say, this was king john's house, which might so be, for I found in a written copy of Matthew Paris his history, that in the year 1232. Henry the third sent Hubert de Burgho Earl of Kent, to Cornhill Hubert de Burgho Earl of Kent sent to Cornhill. in London, there to answer all matters objected against him, where he wisely acquitted himself. The Pope's head Tavern hath a foot way through, from Cornhill into Lombard street. And down lower on the high street of Cornhill is there one other way through by the Cardinal's Hat Tavern, The Cardinal's hat Taverners into Lombard street. And so let this suffice for Cornhill ward. In which be Governors an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Counsellors four, Constables four, Scavingers four, Wardemote inquest 16. and a Beadle: it is charged to the fifteen, at xuj. pound. Langborne ward, and fenny about. LAngborne ward Langborne ward, and sennie about. is so called of a long borne of sweet water, which of old time breaking out into Fenchurch street, ran down the same street and Lombard street, to the West end of S. Marry Woolnothes Church, where turning south, and breaking itself into many small shares, rills or streams, it left the name of Share borne lane, or south borne lane Shareborne or southborne lane. (as I have read) because it ran south to the river of Thames. This Ward beginneth at the West end of Aldegate ward, in Fen church street, by the iron-mongers hall, which is on the North side of that street, at a place called Culuer alley, Culuer alley. Lane stopped up. where sometime was a lane, through the which men went into Limestréete, but that being long since stopped up for suspicion of thieves, that lurked there by night (as is showed in Limestreet ward) there is now this said alley a tennis court, etc. Fen Church street Fan church street. took that name of a fenny or Moorish ground so made by means of this borne which passed through it, & therefore until this day in the Guildehall of this city, that ward is called by the name of Langborne, and fenny about and not otherwise: yet others be of opinion that it took that name of Faenum, that is hay sold there, as Grass street took the name of Grass or herbs there sold. In the midst of this street standeth a small parish church called S. Gabriel Fen church, corruptly Fan church. Helming Legget Esquire, by licence of Edward the third, in the 49. of his reign, gave one Tenement, with a curtilarge thereto belonging, and a garden with the entry thereto leading, unto Sir john Hariot parson of Fenchurch, and to his successors for ever, the house to be a Parsonage house, the garden to be a churchyard, or bu●ying place for the parish. Parish church of S. Mary & S. Gabriel. Than have ye Lombard street, Lombard street. so called of the Longobards, and other merchants, strangers of divers nations assembling there twice every day, which manner continued until the 22. of December in the year 1568. on which day the said merchants began their meeting in Cornhill at the Burse, since by her Majesty named the Royal Exchange. On the North side of this Ward is Limestreet, Limestreet. one half whereof is of this ward, and therein on the west side is the Pewterer's hall, Pewterer's hall who were admitted to be a brotherhood, in the 13. of Edward the fourth. At Limestreet corner is a fair parish Church of S. Dionys called Back church, lately new builded: john Derby Alderman about the year 1446. added thereunto a fair Isle or Chapel on the south side and was there buried: about the year 1466. he gave (besides sundry ornaments) his dwelling house, & others, unto the said parish Church, Parish church of S. Diones. john Master gent. was by his children buried there 1444: Thomas Britain, Robert Paget merchantaylor, one of the Sheriffs 1536. Hugh Witch Mayor 1462. & the Lady Witch: Sir Thomas Curteis Pewterer, than Fishmonger Mayor 1557. james Harvey Ironmonger Mayor 1581. William Peterson Esquire, William Sherington: Sir Edward Osborne Clothworker Mayor 1583. buried there. Than in Lombardstreet is one fair parish church, called All-hallows Parish church of All-hallows in Lombardstreet. Grass Church in Lombardstreet, I so read it in evidences of record, for that the Grass market went down that way, and was there kept, but the street was far larger in breadth. This Church was lately new builded. john Warner armourer and then Grocer Sheriff 1494. builded the South I'll, his son Robert Warner Esquire finished it the year 1516. L. Trinitate. The Pewterers were benefactors towards the North isle etc. The steeple or bell Tower thereof was finished in the year 1544. about the thirty and sixth of Henry the eight. The fair stone porch of this church was brought from the late dissolved Priory of S. john of jerusalem, by Smithfielde, so was the frame for their bells, but the bells being bought, were never brought thither, by reason that one old Warner Draper, of that parish deceasing, his son young Mark Warner would not perform what his father had begun, and appointed, so that fair steeple hath but one bell, as Friars were wont to use. The monuments in this church be these, the said Warners and john Waldon Draper. Next to this is the parish church of S. Edmond Parish church of S. Edmond in Lombard street. the King and Martyr in Lombard street, by the south corner of birchover's lane. This church is also called S. Edmond grass church, because the said Grass market came down so low. The monuments in this church are these: Sir john Milborne Draper Mayor deceased, 1535. buried there by Dame joane, & Dame Margaret his wives, under a tomb of touch. Humphrey Heyford, Goldsmith Mayor, 1477. Sir William Chester Draper, Mayor, 1560. with his wives amongst his predecessors. Sir George Barn Mayor, 1586. etc. From this church down Lombard's street, by birchover's lane (the one half of which lane is of this ward) and so down, be divers fair houses, namely one with a very fair forefront towards the street, builded by S. Martin Bowes Goldsmith, since Mayor of London, and then one other, sometime belonging to William de la Pole the king's merchant in the 14. of Edward the third, and after him to Michael de la Pole Earl of Suffolk, in the 14. of Richard the second, and so down toward the stocks market, lacking but some three houses thereof. The south side of this Ward, beginneth in the East, at the chain to be drawn thwart Mart lane, up into Fen church street, and so West, by the North end of Minchen lane to S. Margaret's Pattens street, or Rood lane, and down that street to the midway toward S. Margaret's church: then by Philpot lane, Philpot lane. (so called of Sir john Philpot that dwelled there, & was owner thereof) and down that lane some six or eight houses on each side, is all of this ward. Than by Grass church corner into Lombard street to S. Clement's lane, S. Clement's lane. and down the same to S. Clement's church: then down S. Nicholas lane, and down the same to Saint Nicholas church, and the same church is of this ward. Than to Abchurch lane and down some small portion thereof: then down Sherborne lane, a part thereof, and a part of Bearebinder lane be of this ward: and then down Lombardstreet to the sign of the angel almost to the corner over against the Stocks market: and these be the bounds of this ward. On this south side have ye the parish church of All-hallows, commonly called Stane church, somewhat within Mart lane end, by the which church sometime passed a lane called Cradocks lane, from Mart lane, winding by the north side of Alhallows Stane church afore said, into Fen church street, the which lane being straightened by incrochments, is now called church alley. Parish church of All-hallows Stane church. Cradocks lane. In this church there have been divers fair monuments of the dead, namely of john Costin Girdler, a great benefactor to that church: he deceased 1244. his name remaineth painted on the church roof, if it had been in brass it would not have remained there so long: he gave out of certain tenements to the poor of that parish an hundred quarters of charcoles yearly for ever. Sir Robert Tesle knight of the holy sepulchre, and Dame joane his wife, about 1486. Robert Stone, Sir john Steward, and Dame Alice his wife, Alice William and john, wife and sons to Thomas Clarell, Agnes daughter to Thomas Niter Eent. William Atwell, Felix daughter to Sir Thomas Gisers, and wife to Travers, Thomas Mason Esquire, Edmond Wartar Esquire, joane wife to john Chamberlain Esquire, daughter to Roger Lewkner Esquire, William Friar, john Hamburger Esquire, Hugh Moresby, Gilbert Prince Alderman, Oliver Chorley gentleman, Sir john Writh (or Writhesley) alias Garter, principal King at Arms, sometime laid under a fair tomb in the choir, now broken down and gone. joane wife to Thomas Writhesley, son to Sir john Writhesley, Gartar, daughter and heir to William Hall Esquire, john Writhesley the younger, son to Sir john Writhesley and Alienor, Elinor second wife to john Writhesley, daughter and heir to Thomas Arnalde, and Agnes his second wife, john Writhesley son of Thomas, Agnes Arnold, first married to William Writhesley daughter of Richard Warmeforde, Barbara Hungerford, daughter to Sir john Writhesley, wife to Anthony Hungerford, son to Sir Thomas Hungerford of Denna●pney in the countiss of Gloucester: john Bostoke Esquire, Christopher Hol●, Sir Richard Tate knight ambassador for King Henry the eight, buried there 1554. his monument remaineth yet, the rest being all pulled down, and swept out of the church, where through the Church Warden was forced to make a large ● xii. ● year spent in brooms, besides the carriage away of stone and brass at his own charge. Than is the parish church of S. Nicholas Acon or Hacon, Parish church of S. Nicholas Hacon. (for so have I read it in records) in Lombarde street. Sir john Bridges Draper Mayor 1520. newly repaired this church and imbattailed it, and was there buried: Frances Boyer Grocer one of the Sheriffs was buried there, 1580. with other of the Boyers. So was julian, wife to john Lambard Alderman mother of William Lamberd, yet living. Than is there in the high street a proper parish church of S. Mary Woolnoth, Parish church of S. Mary Wolnoth. of the nativity, the reason of which name I have not yet learned: this church is lately new builded. Sir Hugh Brise Mayor in the first year of Henry the seventh keeper of the king's exchange at London, and one of the governors of the king's mint in the Tower of London, under William L. Hastings, the 5. of Edward the fourth deceased 1496. he builded in this church a chapel, called the charnel, as also part of the body of the church and of the steeple, and gave money toward the finishing thereof, besides the stone which he had prepared: he was buried in the body of the church, Guy Brice or Boys was buried there, Dame joan wife to Sir William Peach, Hugh Acton Taylor, Thomas Nocket Draper 1396. Simon Eyre 1459. john Meager Pewterer, & Emme his wife in S. john's chapel, Sir john Piercivall Merchant tailor Mayor, about 1504 Thomas Roch and Andrew Michael vintners, & joan their wife: William Hilton Marchantaylor, & Tailor to K. Henry the eight, was buried there 1519. under the chapel of S. George, which chapel was builded by George Lufken sometime Tailor to the Prince, Robert Amades Goldsmith master of the king's jewels: Sir Martin Bowes Mayor buried about 1569. he gave lands for the discharge of that Langborne ward of all fifteens Langborne ward discharged of fifteen to be granted to the King by Parliament: George Hasken, Sir Thomas Ramsey late Mayor, etc. Thus have ye seven parish churches in this ward. One hall of a company, diviers fair houses for merchants, and other monuments none. It hath an Alderman his deputy, common Counsellors 8. Constables 15. Scavenger's 9 men of the Wardemote inquest 17. and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen in London at xxj. pound. In the Exchequer at xx. ●. x. ●. Billingsgate ward BIllinsgate ward, Billingsgate ward. beginneth at the west end of Towerstreete ward, in Thames street, about Smarts Key, and runneth down along that street on the south side, to S. Magnus' church at the Bridge foot, and on the north side of the same Thames steeete, from over against Smarts Key till over against the North west Corner of S. Magnus' Church aforesaid: on this North side of Thames street, is S. Marry hill lane, up to S. Margaret's Church, and then part of S. Margaret's Pattens street, at the end of S. Marry hill lane: Next out of Thames street is Lucas lane, and then Buttolph lane, and at the northend thereof Philpot lane, then is Rothar lane, of old time so called, and thwart the same lane is little Eastcheap, and these be the bounds of this Billingsgate ward. Touching the principal ornaments within this ward. On the southside of Thames street, beginning at the East end thereof, there is first the said Smarts key, Smarts key. so called of one Smart sometime owner thereof, the next is Billingsgate, Billingsgate. whereof the whole ward taketh name, the which (leaving out the fable, thereof feigning it to be builded by king Beline ● Briton, long before the incarnation of Christ) is at this present a large Water gate, port or Harbour for ships and Boats, commonly arriving there with fi●h both fresh and salt, shell fishes, salt, Oranges, Onions, and other Fruits and Roots, Wheat, Rye, and Grain of divers sorts, for service of the City, and the parts of this Realm adjoining. This Gate is now more frequented then of old time, when the Queen's Heath was more used as being appointed by the kings of this Realm, to be the special or only port for taking up of all such kind of merchandises brought to this city by strangers & Forrenners, and the draw bridge of Timber at London bridge was then to be raised or drawn up for passage of ships with tops thither. Touching the ancient customs of this B●llinsgate, Customs of Billingsgate. I have not read in anyrecorde, more than that in the reign of Edward the third, every great ship landing there, paid for strandage two pence, every little ship, with Orelockes a penny, the lesser boat called a Battle, a halfpenny: of two quarters of corn measured the king was to have one Farthing of a Comb, of Corn a penny, of every weight going out of the City a halfpenny, of two quarters of sea coal measured a farthing, and of every Tun of Ale going out of England beyond the seas, by Merchant strangers four pence, of every thousand Herring, a farthing, except the Franchises etc. The next to this is Somars key, Sommars Key. which likewise took that name of one Somar dwelling there, as did Lion key Lion Key, of one Lion owner thereof, and since of the sign of a Lyon. Than is there a fair Wharfe or Key, called Buttolphes Buttolphés wharf. gate by that name so called in the times of William the Conqueror, and of Edward the Confessor, as I have showed already in the description of the Gates. Next is the parish church of S. Buttolph, Parish church of S. Buttolph, a proper Church, & hath had many fair monuments therein, now defaced and clean gone: notwithstanding I found by Testimonies abroad, that these which follow were buried there, to wit, Roger Coggar, 1384. Andrew Pikeman, and joan his wife, 1391. Nicholas james iron-monger one of the Sheriffs, 1423. john Raynewel Fishmonger, and William his Father, the said john Rainwel was Mayor 1426. and deceasing 1445. was buried there with this Epitaphe. Citizens of London, call to your remembrance, The famous john Rainewel, sometime your Mayor, Of the Staple of Calais, so was his chance. Here lieth now his Corpse, his soul bright and fair, Is taken to heavens bliss, thereof is no despair. His acts bear witness, by matters of record, How charitable he was, and of what accord, No man hath been so beneficial as he, Unto the City, in giving liberality, etc. He gave a stone house, to be a Revestrie to that Church for ever: more, he gave lands, and tenements to the use of the Commonalty, that the Mayor and Chamberlain should satisfy unto the discharge of all persons, inhabiting the wards of Belins-gate, Downegate, and Aldegate, Billingsgate ward, Dow●gate ward, and Aldgate ward discharged of all fifteens. as often as it shall happen any fifteen, by Parliament of the king to be granted, also to the Exchequer in discharge of the Sheriffs ten pound yearly, which the Sheriffs used to pay for the Fearme of Southwark, so that all men of the Realm, coming or passing with carriage should be free quitted and discharged of all Tole and other payments, afore time claimed by the Sheriffs: Further that the Mayor and Chamberlain, shall pay yearly to the Sheriffs, eight pound, so that the said Sheriffs take no manner Tole or money, of any person of this Realm, for their goods, merchandises, victuals, and carriages, for their passages at the great gate of the bridge of the city, nor at the gate called the draw bridge etc. The overplus of money coming of the said Lands and tenements, divided into even portions, the one part to be imployled to instore the Grayners of the City, with wheat for the relief of the poor Commonalty, and the other Moiety to clear and cleanse the shelves, and other stoppages of the river of Thames etc. Stephen Forstar Fishmonger, Mayor in the year, 1454. and Dame Agnes his wife, lie buried there: William Bacon Haberdasher, one of the Sheriffs 1480. was there buried, besides many other persons of good worship, whose monuments are all destroyed by greedy men of spoil. This parish of S. Buttolph is no great thing, notwithstanding divers strangers are there harboured as may appear by a presentment, not many years since made of stranger's The number of strangers. inhabitants in the ward of Billingsgate in these words. In Billingsgate ward were one and fifty households of strangers, whereof thirty of these househouldes inhabited in the parish of S. Buttolph in the chief and principal houses where they give twenty pound the year for a house lately let, for four marks, the nearer they devil to the waterside, the more they give for houses, and within thirty years before there was not in the whole ward above three Netherlanders, at which time there was within the said parish levied for the help of the poor, seven and twenty pound, by the year, but since they came so plentifully thither, there cannot be gathered above eleven pound, for they will not contribute to such charges as other Citizens do. Thus much for that south side of this ward. On the north side is Bosse Alley, Bosses alley and the Boss of Billingsgate. so called of a Boss of spring water continually running, which standeth by Billingsgate, against this Alley, and was sometimes made by the Executors of Richard Whitington. Than is S. Marry hill lane, S. Marry hill lane which runneth up North from Billingsgate, to the end of S. Margaret Pattens, commonly called Rood lane, and the greatest half of that lane is also of Billingsgate ward. In this S. Marry hill Parish church of S. Marry hill. lane is the fair parish church of S. Marie called on the hill, because of the ascent from Billingsgate. This church hath been lately builded, as may appear by this that followeth. Richard Hackney one of the Sheriffs in the year 1322. and Alice his wife were there buried, as Robert Fabian writeth, saying thus. In the year 1497. in the month of April, as labourers digged for the foundation of a wall, within the Church of S. Marry hill near unto Billingsgate, they found a Coffin of rotten Timber, and therein the Corpse of a woman, whole ofskin, and of bones undesevered, and the joints of her arms pliable, without breaking of the skin, upon whose sepulchre this was engraven. Here lain the bodies of Richard Hackney and Alice Alice Hackney found uncorrupted more than 170. years after she was buried. his wife, the which Richard was Sheriff in the fifteenth of Edward the second, her body was kept above ground, three or four days without noysance, but than it waxed unsavoury: and so was again buried. john Mordan stockefishmonger was buried there, 1387. Nicholas Exton Fishmonger Maior, 1387. William Cambridge Maior, 1420 William Philip Sergeant at Arms, 1473. Robert Revel one of the Sheriffs 1490. gave liberally toward the new building of this Church, and steeple, and was there buried, William Remington Maior, 1500. Sir Thomas Blank Mayor, 1582. William Holstocke Esquire, Controller of the kings ships. Sir Cutberte Buckle Maior, 1594. This lane on both sides is furnished with many fair houses for Merchants and hath at the North end thereof, one other lane called S. Margaret Pattens, because of old time Pattens were there usually made and sold: but of later time, this is called Rood lane, of a Rood there placed, in the Church yard of Saint Margaret, S. Margaret Patents la●● whilst the old Church was taken down, and again newly builded, during which time the oblations made to this Rood, were employed towards building of the church: but in the year 1538. about the 23. of May in the morning, the said Rood was found to have been in the night proceeding (by people unknown), Parish chur●● of S. Marga● patents. broken all to pieces, together with the Tabernacle, wherein it had been placed. Also on the 27, of the same month, in same parish amongst the Basketmakers, a great and sudden fire happened in the night season, which within the space of three hours consumed more than a dozen houses, & nine persons were brent to death there, and thus ceased that work of this Church, being at that time nigh finished to the steeple. The lane on both sides beyond the same church to the midway towards Fenchurch street is of Billingsgate ward. Than again out of Thames street, by the west end of S. Marry hill Church, runneth up one other lane of old time called Rope lane, Rope lane o●● Lucas lane. since called Lucas Lane, of one Lucas owner of some part thereof, and now corruptly called Love lane, it runneth up by the East end of a parish Church of Saint Andrew Hubbert, or Saint Andrew in East Cheap: This Church and all the whole Lane called Lucas Lane is of this Billinsegate ward. Than have ye one other lane out of Thames street, called Buttolph lane, because it riseth over against the Parish Church Parish church of S. Andrew● Hubbert. of S. Buttolph, and runneth up North by the East end of S. George's Church, to the West end of S. andrew's Church and to the south end of Philpot lane. This Parish Church of Saint George in Buttolph lane, Buttolph lan● is small, but the Monuments for two hundred years past are well preserved, from spoil whereof, one is of Adam Bamme Maior, one thousand three hundred ninety seven, Richard Bamme Esquire, his son of Gillingham in Kent, 1452. john Walton Gentleman, 1401. Parish church of S. George. Marpor a Gentleman, 1400. john, Saint john Merchant of Leavaunt, and Agnes his wife, 1400. William Combs Stock Fishmonger, one of the Sheriffs, 1452. who gave forty pound, towards the works of that Church. john Stokar Draper one of the Sheriffs, 1477. Richard Drylande Esquire, and Katherine his wife, Daughter to Morris Brune Knight, Lord of Southuckenton in Essex, Steward oh the Household to Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, 1487. Nicholas Partridge one of the Sheriffs, 1519. William Forman Maior, 1538. james Mounforde Esquire. Surgeon to king Henry the eight, buried. 1544. Thomas gale Haberdashar. 1540 Nicholas Wilforde Merchant Taylor and Elizabeth his wife, about the year. 1551. Hugh Spencer Esquire, 1424. Edward Heywarde 1573. etc. Than have ye one other lane called Rother Lane or Read Rose Lane, Rother lane or Read rose lane. of such a sign there, now commonly called Pudding Lane, because the Butchers of Eastcheap, have their scalding house for Hogs there, and their Puddings with other filth of Beasts, are voided down that way to their dung boats on the Thames. This Lane stretcheth from Thames street to little Eastcheap chiefly inhabited, by Basketmakers, Turner's, and Butchers: and is all of Billins gate ward. The Garland in little East Cheap, sometime a Brewhouse, with a Garden on the backside adjoining to the Garden of Sir john Philpot, was the chief house in this East Cheap, it is now divided into sundry small tenements, etc. This Ward hath one Alderman, and his Deputy, common Counsellors Constables eleven, Scavenger's six, for the Wardmote inquest fourteen and a Beadle, it is taxed to the fifteen in London, at two and thirty pound, and in the Exchequer at one and thirty pound ten shillings. Bridge ward within. BRidgewarde within, Bridgeward within. so called of London Bridge, which Bridge is a principal part, of that ward, and beginneth at the stoops on the southend by Southwark, runneth along the bridge, and North up Bridgestreete, Bridge stree● or new Fish-street. commonly called (of the Fishmarket) New Fish-street, from Fish-street hill, up Grassestreete, to the North corner of Grass Church, all the bridge is replenished on both the sides with large, fair and beautiful buildings, inhabitants for the most part, rich Merchants, and other wealthy Citizens, Mercers and Haberdashers. In new fishstreete be Fishmongers, and fair Taverns: on Fish-street hill, and Grassestreete, men of divers Trades, Grocers and Habardashers. In Grassestreete have ye one fair Conduit of sweet water, castellated with Crest and Uente, made there by the appointment of Thomas Hill Mayor in the year 1484. who gave by his Testament, one hundred marks towards the conveyance of water Water Conduire in Grassestreete. to this place. It was begun by his Executors, in the year, 1491. and finished of his goods whatsoever it cost. On the east side of this Bridge ward, have ye the fair Parish Church of S. Magnus, Parish church of S. Magnus. in the which church have been buried many men of good worship, whose monuments are now for the most part utterly defaced. I found Henry Yevele Free-mason to Edward the third, Richard the second, and Henry the fourth, who deceased 1400. his monuments yet remaineth: William Brampton, john Michael Mayor 1436 john French Baker, Yeoman of the Crown, to H. the 7.1510 Robert Clarke Fishmonger 1521. Richard Turk one of the Sheriffs 1549. William Steed Alderman, Richard Morgan knight, chief justice of the common place 1556, Robert Branch Girdler, 1567. Robert Belgrave Girdler, William Brame, john Coupe● Fishmonger Alderman, who was put by his turn of Maioratly, deceased, 1571. in the parish of S. Christopher, but was buried there, as in the Parish where he was borne. Robert Harding Salter one of the Sheriffs, 1568. Simon Low, Merchant Taylor Esquire. Than is the parish Church of S. Margaret Parish church of S. Margaret upon Fish-street. on Fish-street hill, a proper Church, but monuments it hath none: a foot way passeth by the South side of this Church, from Fish-street hill into Rotherlane. Up higher on this hill is the parish Church of S. Leonard, parish church of S. Leonard milk church. Milk church so termed of one William Melker, an especial builder thereof, but commonly called S. Leonard's in East Cheap, because it standeth at East Cheap corner. Monuments there be of the Doggetes, namely, Walter Dogget Vintner, one of the Sheriffs, 1380. john Dogget Vintner, and Alice his wife, about 1456. this john Dogget gave lands to that Church, William Dogget, etc. This Church, and from thence into little East cheap to the east end of the said Church, is of the Bridge ward. Than higher in Grassestreete is the parish Church of Saint Bennet, called grass Church, Garish church ●f S. Bennet. ●rasse church, Customs of Grass street market. of the Herb market there kept: this Church also is of the Bridge ward, and the farthest North end thereof: some monuments remain there undefaced, as of john Harding Salter, 1576. john Sturgeon, Chamberlain of London, etc. The customs of Grass church market, in the reign of Edward the third, as I have read in a book of Customs were these: every Foreign cart laden with corn, or malt coming thither to be sold, was to pay one half penny, every Foreign cart bringing cheese two pence every cart of corn & cheese together, (if the cheese be more worth than the corn) two pence, and if the corn be more worth than the cheese, it was to pay a halfpenny, of two horses laden with corn or malt, the Bailiff had one farthing, the cart of the Franchise of the Temple and of S. Martins le grand, paid a Farthing: the cart of the Hospital of S. john of jerusalem, paid nothing for their proper goods, and if the corn were brought by Merchants of sell again, the load paid a halfpenny, etc. On the west side of this ward, at the north end of London bridge is a part of Thames street, Thames street. which is also of this ward, to wit so much as of old time was called Stock Fishmonger Row, of the stockfishmongers Stockfishmonger row. Ebgate lane. dwelling there, down west to a water gate, of old time called Ebgate, since Ebgatelane, & now the old swan, which is a common stair on the Thames, but the passage is very narrow by means of incrochments. On this south side of Thames street about the midway betwixt the bridge foot, and Ebgate lane, standeth the Fishmonger's hall, Fishmonger's hall. and divers other fair houses for merchants. These Fishmongers were sometime of two several companies, to wit, Stockefishmongers, and salt fishmongers, Stockfishmongers' an● salt Fishmongers united. and were united in the year 1536. in the 28. of Henry the eight, their Hall to be but one, in the house given unto them by the Lord Fanhope, in the parish of S. Michael Crooked lane, whereas before they had several halls, in Thames street twain, in new fishstréet twain, & in old fish street twain, in all six several halls. Fishmongers had six several halls. This company was so great as I have read in the records of the Tower: now worn out of knowledge to the company, who be not able so much as to show the reason, why they were joined in fellowship with the Goldsmiths, and do give their arms, etc. On that south side of Thames street, have ye Drink water wharf, Drinkewater wharf and fish wharf, and Fish Wharfe in the parish of S. Magnus. On the North side of Thames street is S. Martin's lane, a part of which lane is also of this ward, to wit, on the one side to a well of water, and on the other side as far up as against the said well. Than is S. Michael's lane, part whereof is also of this. Warde up to a well there etc. Than at the upper end of new fishstreete, is a lane turning towards S. Michael's lane, and is called crooked lane, Crooked lane of the crooked windings thereof. Above this lanes end, upon Fishstréet hill, is one great house, for the most part builded of stone, which pertained sometime to Edward the black prince, Edward the black prince. son to Edward the 3. who was in his life time, lodged there. It is now altered to a common hosterie, having the black bell for a sign: Above this house at the top of fishstréet hill is a turning into great Eastchepe, and so up to the corner of Lombard street, over against the Northwest corner of Grass church, and these be the whole bounds of this Bridge ward within: the which hath an Alderman and his deputy, for the Common counsel 16. Constables 15. Scavingers 6. for the Wardemote inquest 16. and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen in London at fifty pound, and in the exchequer at 49. pound, ten shillings. Candlewicke street ward. CAndlewicke street, or Candlewright street ward, Candlewicke street of Candlewiright street ward. beginneth at the East end of great Eastcheap it passeth west through Eastcheap to Candlewright street, and through the same down to the North end of Suffolk lane, on the south side, and down that lane by the west end of S. Laurence churchyard, and that is the farthest west part of that Ward. The street of great Eastcheap is so called of the market there kept, in the East part of the city, as West cheap is a market so called of being in the west. Great Eastcheap. This East cheap is now a flesh market of Butchers there dwelling, on both sides of the street, it had sometime also Cooks mixed amongst the Butchers, and such other as sold victuals ready dressed of all sorts. Eastcheap a Cook's row. For of old time when friends did meet, and were disposed to be merry, they went not to dine and sup in Taverns, for they dressed not meats to be sold, but the cooks, where they called for meat what them liked, which they always found ready dressed at a reasonable rate, as I have before showed. In the year 1410. the 11. of Henry the 4. upon the even of S. john Baptist, the kings sons, The king's sons beaten in Eastcheap, there was no tavern then in Eastcheap. Thomas, and john being in Eastcheap at supper, (or rather at breakfast, for it was betwixt 2. and 3. of the clock after midnight) a great debate happened between their men and other of the court, which lasted one hour, even till the Mayor and Sheriffs with other citizens appeased the same: for the which afterwards the said Mayor Aldermen and Sheriffs were sent for to answer before the king, his sons and divers Lords, being highly moved against the city. At which time William Gascoigne, chief justice required the Mayor and Aldermen, for the citizens, to put them in the King's grace: whereunto they answered that they had not offended, but (according to the law) had done their best in stinting debate, and maintaining of the peace: upon which answer the king remitted all his ire, and dismissed them. And to prove this Eastcheap, to be a place replenished with cooks, it may appear by a song called London lick penny, made by Lidgate the Monk of Berrye, in the reign of Henry the fift, in the person of a cuntreyman coming to London, and traveling through the same: In westcheape In west cheap linen clothe sold but no silks spoken of. (saith the song) he was called on to buy fine lawn, Paris thread, cotton Umple, and other linen clotheses and such like (he speaketh of no silks) In Cornhill to buy old apparel, and household stuff, where he was forced to buy his own hood, which he had lost in Westminster hall: in Candlewright street Drapers proffered him cheap cloth, in Eastcheap the cooks cried hot ribs of beef roasted, pies well baked, and other victuals: there was clattering of pots, harp, pipe, and sawtry, yea by cock, nay by cock, for other greater oaths were spared: some sang of jenken and julian etc. all which melody liked well the passenger, but he wanted money to abide by it, and therefore got him into Gravesend barge and home into Kent. Fripparia. Upholders upon Cornhill, sellers of old apparel & household stuff Eastcheap. Candlewright or Candlewicke street Candlewright or Candlewike street, wike is a wirking place. took that name (as may be supposed) either of Chandler's or maker's of candles, both of wax and tallow: for Candlewright is a maker of candles, or of Week which is the cotton or yearn thereof: or otherwise Wike, which is the place where they use to work them, as Scalding wike by the stocks market was called of the Poulters scalding and dressing their poultry there: and in divers countries, Dairy houses or cottages, wherein they make butter and cheese, are usually called Wickes. There dwelled also of old time divers Weavers Weavers in Candlewike street. of woollen clotheses, brought in by Edward the third. For I read that in the 44. of his reign the weavers brought out of Flaunders, Weavers brought out of Flanders and Brabant. were appointed their meetings to be in the churchyard of S. Laurence Poultney, and the Weavers of Brabant in the churchyard of S. Mary Somerset. There were then in this city weavers of divers sorts. to wit, of Drapery, of Tapery, & Naperie. These weavers of Candlewright street being in short time worn out, their place is now possessed by rich Draper's sellers of woollen cloth, etc. On the North side of this ward, at the west end of East cheap have ye S. Clements lane, S. Clement's lane parish church of S. Clement in west Cheap. a part whereof on both sides is of Candlewike street ward, to wit somewhat North beyond the parish church of S. Clement in East cheap. This is a small church, voided of monuments, other then of Francis Barnam Alderman, who deceased 1575. and of Benedick Barnam his son, Alderman also 1598. Next is S. Nicholas lane for the most part on both sides of this ward, almost to S. Nicholas church. Than is Abchurch lane, Abchurch lane. which is on both the sides, almost wholly of this ward, the parish church there (called of S. Marie Abchurch, Parish church of S. Mary Abchurch. Apechurch, or Upchurch, as I have read it) standeth somewhat near unto the south end thereof, on a rising ground: it is a fair church, and hath the monuments of john Long Esquire of Bedfordshire 1442. john Wikenson Alderman 1519. William jawdrell Taylor, 1440. Sir james Hawse Mayor, 1574. Sir john Branch Mayor, 1580. john Miners, William Kettle etc. On the South side of this ward, beginning again at the East, is S. Nicholas lane S. Nicholas lane. which lane, is almost wholly of this ward, on both sides down towards Thamestréete, to a well or pump there, On the East side of this lane is crooked lane Crooked lane. aforesaid by S. Michael's church, towards new fishstréet. One the most ancient house in this lane is called the leaden porch, Leaden porch in Crooked lane. and belonged sometime to Sir john Merston knight: the 1. of Edward the 4. The parish church of this S. Michaels Parish church of S. Michael in Crooked lane. was sometime but a small & homely thing, standing upon part of that ground, wherein now standeth the parsonage house: and the ground there about was a filthy plot, by reason of the butchers in East cheap, who made the same their Laystall. john Loueken stockfishmonger Maior builded in the same ground this fair church of S. Michael and was there buried in the choir, under a fair tomb with the Images of him, and his wife in Alabaster: the said church hath been since increased with a new choir and side chapels by Sir William Walworth stockfishmonger Mayor, sometime servant to the foresaid john Loveken, also the tomb of Loueken was removed and a flat stone of grey marble garnished with plates of copper laid on him as it yet remaineth in the body of the church: this William Walworth is reported to have slain jack Straw in Smithfield, and there to have been therefore knighted by the king, but that is not true, for jack straw being afterward taken, was first adjudged by the said mayor, and then executed by the loss of his head in Smithfield, howbeit true it is that this William Walworth Praise of william Walworth for his manhood in arresting of Wat Tylar. being a man wise, learned, and of an incomparable manhood arrested Watt Tiler a presumptuous rebel, upon whom no man durst lay whereby he delivered the King and kingdom from most wicked tryanny of Traitors. The Mayor The Mayor was well armed, and had on his head a Basonet. arrested him on the head with a sound blow, whereupon Wat Tylar furiously struck the Mayor with his dagger, but hurt him not, by reason he was well armed: the Mayor having received his stroke, drew his basiliarde, and grievously wounded Wat in the neck, and withal gave him a great blow on the head: in the which conflict an Esquire of the kings house, called john Cavendish drew his sword, and wounded Wat twice or thrice even to the death: and Wat spurring his horse, cried to the commons to revenge him: the horse bore him about 80. foot from the place, and there he fell down half dead, and by and by they which attended on the king environed him about, so as he was not seen of his company: many of them thrust him in in divers places of his body, and drew him into the Hospital of S. Bartholomew, from whence again the Mayor caused him to be drawn into Smithfield, and there to be beheaded. In reward of this service, (the people being dispersed) the king commanded the Mayor to put a Basenet on his head, and the Mayor requesting why he should so do, the king answered, he being much bound unto him would make him knight: the Mayor Mayor made knight and otherwise rewarded. answered, that he was neither worthy nor able to take such estate upon him, for he was but a Merchant & had to live by his merchandise only: notwithstanding the king made him to put on his Basenet, Order of making a knight for service in the field. and then with a sword in both his hands he strongly struck him on the neck as the manner was then, and the same day he made three other citizens knights, for his sake in the same place: to wit, john Philpot, Nicholas Brembar, and Robert Launde Alderman. Aldermen knighted. College sounded. The king gave to the Mayor 100 ●. land by year, & to each of the other 40. ●. land yearly, to them and their heirs for ever. After this in the same year the said Sir William Walworth founded in the said parish church of S. Michael, S. Michael's Crooked lane. a College of a master and 9 priests or Chaplains, & deceased 1385. was there buried in the Chapel by the Choir: but his monuments Monument of Sir W. Walworth defaced and since falsified, and so remaineth. being amongst other by bad people defaced, in the reign of Edward the 6. & again since renewed by the Fishmongers, who for lack of knowledge, what before had been written in his Epitaph, followed a fabulous book, and wrote jacke Straw in steed of Wat Tylar, & therefore have I the more at large discoursed of this matter. It hath also been and is now grown to a common opinion, that in reward of this service done, by the said William Walworth against the rebel. King Richard added to the arms of this City (which was argent, a plain cross Gulas) a sword or dagger, (for so they term it) whereof I have read no such record, but rather that which soundeth to the contrary: Dunt●orne. For I find that in the fourth year of Richard the second in a full assembly made in the upper chamber of the Guildhall, summoned by this William Walworth, than Mayor, as well of Aldermen as of the common counsel in every ward, for certain affairs concerning the king, it was there by common consent agreed and ordained, that the old seal of the Old seal of the Mayoralty broken, and a new seal made. office of the Mayoralty of the city being very small, old, unapt, & uncomely, for the honour of the city, should be broken, & one other new should be had, which the said Mayor commanded to be made artificially, & honourable for the exercise of the said office thereafter in place of the other: in which new seal, besides the images of Peter, and Paul, which of old were rudely engraven, there should be under the feet of the said images, a shield of the arms of The arms of this city were not altered, but remain as afore. the said city perfectly graved, with two Lions supporting the same with two sergeants of arms, an other part, one & two tabernacles, in which above should stand two angels, between whom above the said images of Peter and Paul shall be set the glorious virgin: this being done, the old seal of the Office was delivered to Richard Odiham Chamberlain, who broke it, and in place thereof, was delivered the new seal to the said Mayor to use in his office, of majoralty, as occasion should require. This new seal seemeth to be made before W. Walworth was knighted, for he is not here entitled Sir, as afterwards he was: and certain it is that the same new seal then made, is now in use and none other in that office of the Mayoralty: which may suffice to answer the former fable, without showing of any evidence sealed with the old seal, which was the cross and sword as now etc. Now the other monuments in that church Simon Mordon Mayor, 1368. was buried there, john Olney Mayor 1446. Robert March Stockfishmonger gave two pieces of ground to be a churchyard: john Radwell Stockefishmonger, buried 1415. George Gowre Esquire, son to Edward Gowre Stockfishmonger Esquire, 1470. Alexander Purpoint Stockfishmonger, 1373. Andrew Burel Gentleman of Grey's Inn, 1487. john Shrew Stockfishmonger 1487. With this Epitaph. Farewell my friends the tide abideth no man I am departed hence, and so shall ye. But in this passage the best song that I can Is requiem eternam, now jesus grant it me, When I have ended all mine adversity, Grant me in Paradise to have a mansion, That sheddest the blood for my redemption. john Fenkell one of the Sheriffs, 1487. was knighted, and gave 40. ●. to this church, the one half for his monument. john Pattes●ey Mayor, 1441. Thomas Ewen Grocer, bore half the charges in building of the steeple, & was buried, 1501. William Combs Gent. of Stoke by Gilford in Surrey 1502. Sir john Brudge Mayor, 1530. gave 50. ●. for a house called the College College house in crooked lane. in Crooked lane, he lieth buried in S. Nicholas Hacon. Walter Faireford, Robert Bar, Alexander Heyband, john Motte, john Gramstone, john Brampton, john Wood Stockfishmonger, 1531. Sir Henry Amcots Mayor, 1548. etc. Hard by this S. Michael's church, on the south side thereof, in the year 1560. on the 5. of july through the shooting of a gun, which broke in the house Houses in Crooked lane blown up with gunpowder. of one Adrian Arten. a dutch man & set fire on a firkin and barrel of gunpowder, four houses were blown up, and divers other sore shattered: 11. men and women were slain, and 16. so hurt and bruised, that they hardly escaped with life. West from this S. Michael's lane is S. Martins Orgar lane, S. Martins Orgorlane, and parish church. by Candle wick street, which lane is on both sides down to a well replenished with fair and large houses for merchants, & it is of this ward: one of which houses was sometime called Beachamps Inn as pertaining unto them of that family. Thomas Arundel Archbishop of Canterbury, commonly for his time was lodged there. The parish church of S. Martin Orgor Parish church of S. Martin Orgar. is a small thing. William Crowmer Mayor, builded a proper chapel on the south side thereof, and was buried there 1533. john Matthew Mayor 1490. Sir William Huet Mayor, 1559. With his Lady and daughter, wife to Sir Edward Osborne, Ralph Tabinham Alderman, Alice wife to Thomas Winslow, Thorudon, Benedick Reding, Thomas Harding, james Smith, Richard Gainford Esquire. Winslow Gent. john Bold etc. Than is there one other lane called S. Laurence, of the parish church there. This lane down to the south side of the churchyard, is of Candlewicke street ward. The parish church of S. Laurence Parish church of S. Laurence Poultney made a College. was increased with a chapel of jesus by Thomas Cole, for a master and Chaplains, the which chapel and parish church was made a College of jesus, and of Corpus Christi, for a master and seven chaplains, by john Poultney mayor, and was confirmed by Edward the third, the 20. of his reign, of him was this church called S. Laurence Poultney in Candlewickestréet, which College was valued at 79. ●. 17. ●. xj.● and was surrendered in the reign of Edward the sixth. Robert Ratcliffe Earl of Sussex, & Henry Ratcliff Earl of Sussex, were buried there. Alderman Beswicke was buried there, john olive Alderman, Robert Browne & others. Thus much for this ward, & the antiquities thereof. It hath now an Alderman his Deputy, Common Counsellors 8 Constables 8. Scavenger's 6. Wardemote inquest men 12. and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen at xuj. pound. Walbrooke ward. WAlbrooke ward Walbrooke ward. beginneth at the west end of Candlewicke street ward. It runneth down Candlewicke street west towards Budge row. It hath on the north side thereof S. Swithens lane, so called of S. Swithens a parish Church by London stone: this lane is replenished on both the sides with fair builded houses, and is wholly of Walbrooke ward. The said parish church of S. Swithen Parish church of S. Swithen. standeth at the south-west corner of this lane, and hath been lately new builded: for licence was procured to new build & increase the said church & steeple, and churchyard, in the year 1420. Sir john Hend Draper Mayor was an especial benefactor thereunto, as appeareth by his arms in the glass windows, even in the tops of them, which is in a field silver, a chief Azure, a Lion passant silver, a Cheveron azure, three Escalops silver: he lieth buried in the body of this church with a fair stone laid on him but the plates and other inscriptions are defaced, Roger Depham Alderman was buried there: john Butler Draper one of the Sheriffs 1420. Ralph jocoline Mayor a benefactor buried in a fair tomb, William White Draper, one of the Sheriffs, 1482. On the north side of this church and churchyard is one fair and large builded house, sometime pertaining to the Prior of Tortington Prior of Tortington his Inn. since that to the Earls of Oxford, Oxford place by London stone. & now to Sir john Hart Alderman: which house hath a fair garden belonging thereunto, lying on the West side thereof. On the back side of two other fair houses in Walbrook, in the reign of Henry the seventh, Sir Richard Empson Empson and Dudley. knight dwelled in the one of them, & Edmond Dudley Esquire in the other: either of them had a door of intercourse into this garden, wherein they met & consulted of matters at their pleasures. In this Oxford place Sir Ambrose Nicholas kept his mayoralty, & since him the said Sir john Hart did likewise. On the south side of this high street, near unto the channel, is pitched upright a great stone called London stone London stone. fixed in the ground very deep, fastened with bars of iron, & otherwise so strong lie set, that if carts do run against it through negligence, the Wheels be broken, and the stone itself unshaken. The cause why this stone was there set, the very time when, or other memory hereof, is there none, but that the same hath long continued there, is manifest, namely since (or rather before) the time of the conquest: for in the end of a fair written Gospel book given to Christ's church in Canterbury, by Ethelstane king of the west Saxons, I find noted of Lands or Rents in London belonging to the said church, whereof one parcel is described, to lie near unto London stone. Liber Trinitate Antiquity of London stone. Of later time we read that in the year of Christ 1135. the first of king Stephen a fire which began in the house of one Ailwarde, near unto London stone consumed all east to Ealdegate, in the which fire the Priory of the holy Trinity was brent, & west to S. Erkenwalds' shrine in Paul's Church: and these be the eldest notes that I read thereof. Some have said this stone to have been set, as a mark in the middle of the city within the walls: but in truth it standeth far nearer unto the river of Thames, then to the wall of the city, some others have said the same to be set for the tendering and making of payments by debtors to their creditors, at their appointed days, and times, till of later time, payments were more usually made at the font in Pontes church, and now most commonly at the Royal Exchange, some again have imagined the same to be set up by one john or Thomas Londonstone dwelling there against, but more likely it is, that such men have taken name of the stone, rather than ●he stone of them, as did john at Noke, Thomas at Style, William at Wall or at Well, etc. Down west from this parish church and from London stone, have ye Walbrooke corner: from whence runneth up a street, north to the Stocks, called Walbrooke, because it standeth on the east side of the same brook by the bank thereof, and the whole ward taketh name of that street. Walbrooke street. On the east side of this street and at the north corner thereof, is the stocks market, which had this beginning. About the year of Christ 1282. Henry Wales Mayor, caused divers houses in this City to be builded towards the maintenance of London bridge, namely one void place near unto the parish church, called wool church, on the north side thereof, where sometime (the way being very large and broad) had stood a pair of stocks, Stocks market. for punishment of offenders, this building took name of these stocks, and was appointed by him, to be a market place for fish and flesh in the midst of the city, other houses he builded in other places, as by the patent of Edward the first, it doth appear dated the 10. of his reign. After this in the year 1322. the 17. of Edward the second a decree was made by Hamond Chickwell Maior, that none should cell fish or flesh out of the markets appointed, to wit Bridge street, The midst of the City. East cheap, Old fishstreete, S. Nicholas shambleses, and the said Stocks upon pain to forfeit such fish or flesh as were sold, for the first time, and the second time to lose their freedom, which act was made by commandment of the king under his letters patents dated at the Tower, the 17. of his reign, and then was this stocks let to firm for six and forty pound thirteen shillings four pence by the year. This Stocks market was again begun to be builded in the year 1410. in the 11. of Henry the 4. and was clean finished in the year next following. Robert Fabian. In the year 1543. john Coutes being Mayor, there was in this Stocks market for Fishmongers 25. boards or stalls which rent yearly to thirty four pound thirteen shillings four pence, there were for Butchers 18. boards or stalls rent at 41. ●. 16. ●. 4.●, and there were also chambers above, 16. rent at 5. ●. 13, ●. 4. ●. parish church of S. Mary Wool church Next unto this Stocks is the parish church of S. Mary wol Church, so called of a Beam placed there, even in the church yard (as it seemeth) for the same was thereof called Wool church Haw, of the Tronage, or weighing of Wool there used, and to verify this, I find amongst the customs of London, written in French, in the reign of Edward the second, a chapter entitled Les customes de Wolchurch haw, wherein is set downs what was there to be paid for every Parcel of Wool weighed. This Tronage or weighing of Wool Tronage or weighing of wool caused the church to be named Wool church haw. till the sixth of Richard the second, was there continued, and until that john Churchman builded the custom house upon Woolkey, to serve for the said Tronage, as is before showed in the Towerstreete ward: This church is reasonable fair and large, and was lately new builded, by licence granted in the 20. of Henry the sixth, with condition to be builded 15. foot from the Stocks market for sparing of light to the same. The Parson of this church is to have four marks the year for tithe of the said Stocks, paid him by the masters of the Bridge house, by a special decree made the second of Henry the seventh. john Wingar Grocer Maior, 1504, was a great helper to the building of this church, and was there buried 1505. he gave unto it by his Testament, two large Basins of silver, & 20. ●. in money, also Richard Shore Draper, one of the Sheriffs 1505. Was a great benefactor in his life, and by his Testament gave 20. ●. to make a porch at the west end thereof, and was there buried, Richard Hatfield of Steplemorden in Cambridge shire, lieth entombed there, 1467. Edward Deoly Esquire, 1467. john Handford Grocer, made the Fount of that church very curiously wrought, painted and guilded, and was there buried: john Archer Fishmonger 1487. etc. From the Stocks market, and this Parish Church East up into Lombarde street, some seven or eight houses on a side, and also on the south side of Woll Church, have ye Bearebinder lane, Berebinder lane which is of this Walbrooke ward, than down lower in the street called Walbrooke is one other fair Church of S. Stephen, lately builded on the east side thereof, for the old church stood on the west side, in place where now standeth the Parsonage house, and therefore so much nearer, the brook even on the bank. Robert Chichley Mayor in the year 1428. the sixth of Henry the sixth, gave to this Parish of S, Stephen Parish church of S. Stephen by Walbrook. one plot of ground, containing 208, foot and a half in length, and 66. foot in breadth, thereupon to build their new church, and for their churchyard: and in the seventh of Henry: the sixth, the said Robert one of the founders, laid the first stone for himself, the second for William Stondon Maior, with whose goods the ground that the church standeth on, and the housing with the ground of the churchyard was bought by the said Chichley for 200. marks, from the Grocers which had been let before for 26. marks the year. Robert Wittingham Draper laid the third stone, Henry Barton then Mayor etc. The said Chichley gave more 100 ●. to the said work, and bore the charges of all the timber work on the Procession way, and laid the lead upon it of his own cost, he also gave all the timber for the rooffing of the two side Isles, and paid for the carriage thereof. This church was finished in the year 1439. the breadth thereof is 67. foot, and length 125. foot, the church yard 90. foot, in length, and 37. in breadth and more. Robert Wittingham (made knight of the Bath) in the year 1432. purchased the patronage of this church from john Duke of Bedford, uncle to Henry the sixth, and Edward the fourth, in the second of his reign, gave it to Richard Lee, than Mayor There be monuments in this church of Thomas Southwell first Parson of this new church, who lieth in the quire, john Dunstable Master of Astronomy, and Music in the year 1453. Sir Richard Lee Mayor, who gave the said Patronage to the Grocers, Sir Rowland Hill Mayor, 1549. Sir Thomas Pope first Treasurer of the augmentations, with his wife dame Margaret. john Kirkbie Grocer 1578. Sir john Cootes Maior, 1542, Sir john York knight, Merchant Taylor,1549. Edward jackman Sheriff, 1564, Richard Achley Grocer, Doctor Owyn Physician to king Henry the eight, and others. Lower down from this parish church be divers fair houses namely one wherein of late Sir Richard Baker a knight of Kent was lodged, and one wherein dwelled master Thomas Gore a merchant famous for Hospitality. On the West side of this Walbrooke street, over against the Stocks market, is a part of the high street, called the Poultry, on the south side west, till over against S. Mildredes Church, and the Scalding Wike, is of this ward. Than down again Walbrooke street some small distance, is Buckles Bury, a street so called of Buckle Buckles berry, that sometime was owner thereof, part of which street, on both sides 3. or 4. houses to the course of the Brook is of this ward, and so down Walbrooke street, to the south corner: from whence west down Budge Row, some small distance to an Alley and through that Alley south by the west end of S. john's church upon Walbrooke, by the south side, and east end of the same, again to Walbrooke corner. This parish church is called S. john upon Walbrooke, because the west end thereof is on the very bank of Walbrooke, by Horshew Bridge, Horshew bridge. a Bridge over the Brook in Horsebridge lane. This church was also lately new builded: for about the year 1412. licence was granted by the Mayor, and Commonalty, to the Parson and Parish there, for the enlarging thereof, with a piece of ground on the north part of the Choir, 21. foot, in length, 17. foot, in breadth, & 3. inches, & on the south side the Choir, one foot of the common soil: There be no monuments in this church of any account, only William Combarton Skinner, who gave lands to that church, was there buried, 1410. and john Stone Taylor one of the Sheriffs 1464. was likewise buried there. On the south side of Walbrooke ward from Candlewicke street, in the mid way betwixt London stone, and Walbrooke corner, is a little lane with a turnpike in the midst thereof, and in the same a proper parish church called S. Mary Bothaw, Parish church of S. Mary Bothaw. or Boatehaw, by the Erber: this church being near unto Downgate on the river of Thames, hath the addition of Boathaw or Boat haw, of near adjoining to an haw or yard wherein of old time, boats were made, and landed from Downgate to be mended, as may be supposed, for other reason I find none why it should be so called. Within this Church, and the small Cloistrie adjoining, divers noble men and persons of worship have been buried, as appeareth both by Arms in the windows, by the defaced Tombs, and print of plates torn up and carried away, there remain only, of john West Esquire, buried there in the year 1408. Thomas Huntley Esquire 1539. but his monument is defaced. The Erbar The Erbar. is an ancient place so called, but is not of Walbrooke ward, and therefore out of that lane, to Walbrooke corner, and then down till over against the south corner of S. john's church upon Walbrooke. And this is all that I can say of Walbrooke ward. It hath an Alderman, and his Deputy, common Counsellors eleven, Constables, nine, Scavenger's six, for the Wardmote inquest, thirteen and a Beadle, it is taxed to the fifteen in London, to forty pound and in the Exchequer to thirty nine pound. Downgate ward. DOwngate ward Downgate ward. beginneth at the southend of Walbrooke ward, over against the east corner of S. john's Church, upon Walbrooke, and descendeth on both the sides to Downgate, on the Thames, and is so called of that down going or descending thereunto: and of this Downgate the ward taketh name. This ward turneth into Thames street westward, some ten houses on a side, to the course of Walbrooke but east in Thames street, on both sides to Ebgate or old swan, and over against Cbgate the land side hath many lanes turning, as shall be showed, but first, to begin with the high street called Dowgate at the upper end thereof, is a fair Conduit of Thames water, castellated, and made in the year 1568, at charges of the Citizens, and is called the Conduit upon Downgate. Conduit upon Downgate. The descent of this street, from the said Conduit to the watergate, called Downgate, is such that in the year 1574. on the fourth of September in the afternoon there fell a storm of rain, where through the channels suddenly arose, and ran with such a swift course towards the common Shores, that a lad of 18. years old A lad of 18. years old drowned in the chennell● minding to have leapt over the channel near unto the said Conduit was taken with the stream, & carried from thence towards the Thames with such a violence that no man with staves, or otherwise could stay him, till he came against a cart wheel, that stood in the said water gate, before which time he was drowned, & stark dead. On the west side of this street, is the Tallow Chandler's hall, a very proper house, which Company was incorporated in the second year of Edward the fourth. Somewhat lower standeth the Skinner's hall, a very fair house, also which was sometime called Copped hall Copped hall now Skinner's hall. by Downgate in the parish of S, john upon Walbrooke. In the 19 year of Edward the second, Ralph Cobham possessed it with five shops, etc. Than was there a College of Priests called Jesus' Commons, Jesus' Commons. a house well furnished with brass, pewter, nappery plate, etc. besides a fair Library well stored with books, all which of old time was given to a number of Priests, that should keep commons there, and as one left his place by death, or otherwise, an other should be admitted into his room, but this order within this thirty years being discontinued, the said house was dissolved, and turned to tenements. Down lower have ye Elbow lane, Elbow lane. and at the corner thereof was one great stone house, called Old hall, it is now taken down, and divers fair houses of Timber placed there, this was sometime pertaining to William de pont le arch, william de pont arch his house. and by him given to the Priory of S. Mary Ouery in Southwark, in the reign of Henry the first. In this Elbow lane is the Inholders hall, Inholders hall. and other fair houses: this lane runneth west, and suddenly turneth south into Thames street, and therefore of that bending is called Elbow lane. On the east side of this Downgate street, is the great old house, before spokn of, called the Erber, The Erber S. Mary Bothhaw. near to the Church of S. Mary Bothaw, Geoffrey Scroop held it, by the gift of Edward the third, in the fourteenth of his reign, it belonged since to john Nevell Lord of Raby, then to Richard Nevell Earl of Warwick, Nevell, Earl of Salisbery was lodged there, 1457. then it came to George Duke of Clarence, by the gift of Edward the fourth, in the fourteenth of his reign, it was lately new builded by Sir Thomas Pullison Maior, and was afterward inhabited by Sir Frances Drake, that famous Warrior. Next to this great house, is a lane turning to Bush lane, (of old time called Carter lane, of Carts, and Car men having stables there) and now called Chequer lane, or Chequer Alley, of an Inn called the Chequer. In Thames street, on the Thames side west from Downegate is Greenwich lane Greenwich lane or Friar lane. of old time so called, and now Friar lane of such a sign there set up. In this lane is the joynars hall. joynars hall and other fair houses. Than is grantham's lane so called of john Grantham sometime Mayor and owner thereof, whose house was very large and strong, builded of stone, as appeareth by gates arched yet remaining, Ralph Dodmer, first a Brewer, than a Mercer Maior 1529. dwelled there, and kept his Mayoralty, in that house, it is now a Brewhouse, as it was afore. Than is Dowgate whereof is spoken in an other place. East from this Downgate, is Cousin lane, Cousin lane. named of one William Cousin that dwelled there, in the fourth of Richard the second, as divers his Predecessors, Father, Grandfather, etc. had done before him. William Cousin dwelling there, was one of the Sheriffs, in the year, 1306. the 34. of Edward the 1. That house standeth at the south end of the lane, having an old and artificial conveyance of Thames water into it, and is now a Dyehouse called Lambardes' messsage. Adjoining to that house, there was lately erected an engine, to convey Thames water unto Downgate Conduit aforesaid. A gin to convey Thames water to Dow●● gate Conduit. Next to this lane on the East, is the Steel house, or Steel yard Steleyarde for Merchants of Almain. (as they term it) a place for Marchahtes of Almain, that used to bring hither, as well Wheat, Rye, and other grains, as Cables, Ropes, Masts, Pitch, Tar, Flax, Hemp, Wainscotes, Wax, Steel, and other profitable marchandires: unto these Merchants, in the year 1259. Henry the third, in the 44. of his reign, at the request of his brother Richard Earl of Cornwell, king of Almain, granted that all and singular the merchants, having a house in the City of London, commonly called Guilda Aula Theutonicorum, Gil●ala Theutonicorun. should be maintained and upholden through the whole Realm, by all such Freedoms, and free usages, or Liberties, as by the king and his noble Progenitors time they had and inoyed, etc. Edward the first renewed and confirmed that Charter of Liberties, granted by his Father. And in the tenth year of the same Edward, Henry Wales being Maior, a great contreversie did arise between the said Mayor, and the merchants of the Haunce of Almain, about the reparations of Bishopsgate then likely to fall, for that the said merchants enjoyed, divers Privileges, in respect of maintaining the said gate, which they now denied to repair: for the appeasing of which controversy the king sent his writ to the Treasurer, and Barons of his Exchequer, commanding that they should make inquisition thereof, before whom the merchants being called, when they were not able to discharge themselves, sith they enjoyed the liberties to them granted, for the same, a precept was sent to the Mayor, and Sheriffs, to distrain the said merchants, to make the reparasions, namely Gerard Marbod Alderman of the Hance, Ralph, de Cussarde a Citizen of Collen, Ludero de Denevar, a Burges of Trivar, john of Aras, a Burges of Trivon, Bart●am of Hamburdge, Gadestalke of Hundondale, a Burges of Trivon, john de deal a Burges of Munstar, then remaining in the said City of London: for themselves, and all other merchants of the Haunce, and so they granted 210. marks sterlinges, to the Mayor and Citizens, and undertook that they and their successors should from time to time repair the said gate, and bear the third part of the charges in money, and men to defend it when need were, and for this agreement the said Mayor and Citizens granted to the said merchants their liberties, which till of late they have enjoyed, as namely amongst other, that they might lay up their grain which they brought into this realm in Inns, & cell it in their garners, by the space of 40. days after Merchants of the Haunce of Almain licenced to lay up their corn in garners, but to cell it within 40. days after. they had laid it up: except by the Mayor & citizens they were expressly forbidden, because of dearth or other reasonable occasions. Also they might have their Alderman as they had been accustomed, foreseen always that he were of the city, and presented to the Mayor and Aldermen of the city so often as any should be chosen, and should take an oath before them to maintain justice in their courts, and to behave themselves in their office according to law, and as it stood with the customs of the city. Thus much for their privileges: whereby it appeareth that they were great merchants of corn brought out of the east parts hither, in so much that the occupiers of husbandry in this land were enforced to complain of them for bringing in such abundance, when the corn of this realm was at an easy price: whereupon it was ordained by parliament Act of Parliament for corn brought from beyond seat. that no person should bring into any part of this realm, by way of merchandise, any wheat, Rye, or Barley, growing out of the said realm at any time, when then the quarter of wheat exceeded not the price of vj. ●. viii. ●. Rye iiij. ●. the quarter, & Barley iij. ●. the quarter, upon forfeiture the one half to the king, the other half to the seasor thereof. These merchants of the Haunce had their Guildhall in Thames street in place aforesaid, by the said Cousin lane. Their hall is large builded of stone with three arched gates towards the street, the middlemost whereof is far bigger than the other, & is seldom opened, & the other two be mured up, the same is now called the old hall. Of later time to wit, in the 6. of Richard the 2. they hired one house next adjoining to their old hall, which sometime belonged to Richard Lions a famous Lapidary, one of the Sheriffs of London in the 49. of Edward the 3. & in the 4. of Richard the 2. by the rebels of Kent, drawn out of that house, and beheaded in West Cheap: this also was a great house with a large wharf on the Thames, and the way thereunto was called Windgoose or Wild-goose lane, Windgoose lane. which is now called Windgoose alley, for that the same alley is for the most part builded on by the stilyard merchants. The Abbot of S. Albon had a messsage here with a Key given to him in the 34. of Henry the 6. Than is one other great house which sometime pertained to john Reynwel Stockfishmonger Mayor, and it was by him given to the Mayor, and commonalty to the end that the profits thereof should be disposed in deeds of piety: which house in the 15. of Edward the fourth, was confirmed unto the said merchants in manner following uz. Patent. It is ordained by our sovereign Lord and his parliament, that the said merchants of Almain, being of the company called the Guildhall Teutonicorun, that now be or hereafter shall be, shall have hold and enjoy to them and their successors for ever, the said place called, the steel house, yielding to the Mayor and communality an annual rent of 70. pound, 3. shillings, four pence, etc. In the year 1551. and the fift of Edward the sixth through complaint of our English merchants, the liberties of the stilyarde Stilyard put down. merchants was seized into the king's hands, and so it resteth. Than is church lane, Church lane. at the west end of Alhallows church called All-hallows the more Parish church of All-hallows the more. in Thames street, for a difference from All-hallows the less in the same street: it is also called All-hallows ad foenum in the Ropery, because hay sold near thereunto at hay wharse, and of ropes of old time made or sold in the high street. This is a fair church with a large cloister on the South side thereof about their churchyard, but foully defaced & ruinated. The church also hath had many fair monuments, but now defaced: there remaineth in the choir some plates on grave stones on these persons, namely of William Lichfield, Doctor of Divinity, who deceased the year 1447. he was a great student, and compiled many books both moral and divine, in prose and in verse, namely one entitled the complaint of God unto sinful man. He made in his time 3083. sermons, as appeared by his own hand writing, and were found when he was dead. One other plate there is of john Brickles Draper, who deceased in the year 1451. he was a great benefactor to that church, and gave by his testament certain tenements, to the relief of the poor etc. At the East end of this church goeth down a lane, called hay wharf lane, hay wharf lane. now lately a great brewhouse was builded there by one Pot: Henry Campion Esquire, a Beer brower used it, & so doth Abraham his son now possesseth it. Than was there one other lane sometime called Wolses gate, Welsey lane. now out of use, for the lower part thereof upon the bank of Thames is builded upon by the late Earl of Shrewsbury, and the other end is builded on and stopped up by the Chambarlaine of London. john Butler Draper one of the Sheriffs in the year 1420. dwelled there: he appointed his house to be sold and the price thereof to be given to the poor, it was of All-hallows parish the less. Than is there the said parish church of Alhallows Parish church of All-hallows the less. called the less, and by some All-hallows on the sellers, for it standeth on vaults: it is said to be builded by Sir john Poultney sometimes Mayor, the steeple and choir of this Church standeth on an arched gate, being the entry to a great house called Cold Harbour: Cold Harbour. the choir of late being fallen down, is now again at length in the year 1594. by the parishioners new builded. Touching this Cold Harbour, I found that in the 13. of Edward the 2. Sir john Abel knight, demised or let unto Henry Stow Draper all that his capital messsage called the Cold Harbour in the parish of Alsaints ad foenum, and all the purtenances within the gate, with the key which Robert Hartford citizen, son to William Hartford had, and aught, and the foresaid Robert paid for it the rent of 33. ●. the year. This Robert Hartford being owner thereof, as also of other lands in Surrey, deceasing without issue male, left two daughters his coheirs, to wit, Idonia, married to Rir Ralph Bigo●, and Maude married to Sir Stephen Cosenton knights, between whom the said house and lands were parted. After the which john Bigot son to the said Sir Ralph, and Sir john Cosenton didsel their moieties of Cold Harbour unto john Poultney son of Adam Poultney the 8. of Edward the third. This Sir john Poultney dwelling in this house, and being four times Mayor, the said house took the name of Poultneyes' Inn. Notwithstanding this Sir john Poultney the 21. of Edward the 3. by his charter gave and confirmed to Humphrey de Bohume earl of Hereford and Essex, his whole tenement called Cold Harbour, with all the tenements and key adjoining, & appurtenances sometime pertaining to Robert de Hereford, on the way called hay wharf lane etc. for one Rose at Midsummer, to him and to his heirs for all services, if the same were demanded. This Sir john Poultney deceased 1349. and left issue by Margaret his wife, William Poultney, who died without issue, and Margaret his mother was married to Sir Nicholas Lovel knight etc. Philip. S. Clear gave two messages pertaining to this Cold Harbour, in the Ropery, towards the enlarging of the parish church, and churchyard, of All saints, called the less in the 20. of Richard the 2. In the year 1397. the 21. of Richard the 2. john Holland Earl of Huntingdon was lodged there, and Richard the 2. his brother dined with him, but in the next year following I found that Edmond Earl of Cambridge had this house & was there lodged in the year 1398. notwithstanding the said house still retained the name of Poultneyes' Inn, in the reign of Henry the 6. the 26. of his reign, and not otherwise. It belonged sithence to H. Holland Duke of Excester, and he was lodged there in the year 1472. In the year 1485. Richard the third by his letters Patents granted and gave to john Writh, alias Garter, principal king of Arms of English men, and to the rest of the kings Heralds and Pursivantes of arms, all that messsage with the appurtenances, called Cold Erber in the parish of All saints, the little in London, and to their successors for ever. Dated at Westminster the 2. of March, anno regni primo without fine or fee: how the said Heralds departed therewith I have not read, but in the reign of H the eight. Cuthbert Tunstal Bishop of Durham, was lodged there, since the which time it hath belonged to the earls of Shrewsbury, by composition (as is supposed) from the said Cuthbert Tunstall. The last deceased Earl took it down, & in place thereof builded a great number of small tenements now let out for great rents, to people of all sorts. Than is the Dyers Hall The Dyer's hall. made a brotherhood or Euild in the fourth of Henry the sixth and appointed to consist of a guardian or warden and a communality the 12. of Edward the 4. Than be there divers large Brewhowses, and others till ye come to Ebgate lane, where that ward endeth in the East, On the North side of Thames street be divers lanes also, the first is at the south end of Elbow lane, before spoken of, West from Downegate, over against Gréenwich lane: then be divers fair houses for merchants and others all along that side. The next lane east from Downegate is called Bush lane, Bush lane. which turneth up to Candlewicke street, and is of Downegate ward. Next is Suffolk lane, Suffolk lane. likewise turning up to Candlewicke street, in this lane is one notable Grammar school, founded in the year 1561. by the master, wardens and assistants of the Merchantaylors, Marchantaylors' school. in the parish of Saint Laurence Poultney. Richard Hills sometime master of that company, having before given 500 pound towards the purchase of an house, called the Manor of the Rose, The manner of the Rose. sometime belonging to the Duke of Buckingham, wherein the said school is kept. Than is there one other lane which turneth up to S. Laurence hill, and to the south-west corner of S. Laurence S. Laurence lane. churchyard: then one other lane called Poultney lane, Poultney lane. that goeth up (of this ward) to the southeast corner of S. Laurence churchyard, and so down again, and to the west corner of S. Martin Orgar lane, and over against Ebgate lane, and this is all of Downegate ward, the thirteenth in number lying East, from the water course of Walbrook, and hath not any one house of the west side of the said brook. It hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Counsellors nine, Constables 8. Scavenger's 5. for the Wardemote inquest 14. and Bedle, it is taxed to the fifteen in London at 36. pound, and in the Exchequer at 34. ●. 10 ●. Wards on the west side of Walbrooke, and first of Vintry ward. NOw I am to speak of the other wards, twelve in number, all lying on the west side of the course of Walbrooke: and first of the Vintry ward, Wards on the West of Walbrooke● and first of Vintry ward. so called of Vintners, and of the vintry, a part of the bank of the River of Thames, where the merchants of Bordeaux craned their wines, out of Lighters, and other vessels, and there landed and made sale of them within forty days after, until the 28. of Edward the first, at which time the said merchants complained that they could not cell their wines, paying poundage, neither there hire houses or sellers to lay them in, and it was redressed by virtue of the kings writ, directed to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London, dated at Carla Veroke (or Carlisle) since the which time many fair & large houses with vaults & sellers for stowage of wines and lodging of the Bordeaux merchants have been builded in place, where before time were Cook's houses: for Fitzstephen in the reign of Henry the 2. writeth, that upon the rivers side, between the wine in ships, and the wine to be sold in taverns, was a common cookery or cook's row. etc. as in another place I have set down: whereby it appeareth that in those days (and till of late time) every man lived by his professed trade, Every man lived by his several professed trade. not any one interrupting an other. The cooks dressed meat, and sold no wine, and the Taverner sold wine, and dressed no meat for sale etc. This ward beginneth in the East, at the west end of Downgate ward, as the water course of Walbrooke parteth them, to wit at grantham's lane, on the Thames side, and at Elbow lane on the land side: it runneth along in Thames street west, some three houses beyond the old Swan, a Brewhouse on the Thames side, and on the land side some three houses west, beyond S. james at Garlic Hith. In breadth this ward stretcheth from the vintry North to the wall of the West gate of the Tower Royal: the other North part is of Cordwayner street Warde. Out of this Royal street by the South gate of Tower Royal runneth a small street, east to S. john's upon Walbrooke, which street is called Horshewbridge, Horshewbridge street. of such a bridge sometime over the brook there, which is now vaulted over. Than from the said south gate west, runneth one other street, called Knightriders street, Knightriders street. by S. Thomas Apostles church, on the north side, and Wringwren lane, by the said church, at the west end thereof, and to the East end of the Trinity Church, in the said Knightriders street, where this ward endeth, on that south side the street: but on the north side it runneth no farther than the corner against the new builded Tavern, and other houses, in a plot of ground, where sometime stood Ormond place, yet have ye one other lane lower down in Royal street, stretching from over against S. Michael's church, to, and by the North side of S. james Church by Garlic Hith, this is called Kerion lane, Kerion lane. and thus much for the bounds of vintry ward. Now on the Thames side west from grantham's lane, have ye Herberlane, Harber lane, or Brikels lane Simpsons' lane or Brikels lane, so called of john Brikels, sometime owner thereof. Than is Simpsons' lane of one Simpson, or Emperor's head lane of such a sign: then the three Cranes lane, Painted Tavern, or three Cranes lane. so called not only of a sign of 3. Cranes, at a Tavern door, but rather of 3. strong Cranes of timber, placed on the vintry wharf by the Thames side, to crane up wines there, as is afore showed: this lane was of old time, to wit, the 9 of Richard the 2. called painted Tavern lane, of the Tavern being painted. Than next over against S. Martin's church, is a large house builded of stone, and timber with vaults for the stowage of wines, & is called the Uintry. The Vintrie● Record There dwelled john Gisers Vintner, Mayor of London and Constable of the Tower, and then was Henry Picard Vintner, Mayor. In this house Henry Picard feasted 4. kings in one day (as in my Summarie I have showed.) Than next is Uanners' lane, so called of one Vannar Vanner lane or church lane● that was owner thereof, it is now called church lane, of the coming up from the wharf to S. Martin's church. Next is Broad lane Broad lane. for that the same is brother for the passage of carts, from the Uintry wharf, then be the other lanes. At the Northwest corner of this lane, is the parish clerks hall, parish clerks hall. lately by them purchased, since they lost their old hall in Bishopsgate street. Next is Spittle lane Spittle lane or Stodres lane. of old time so called, since Stodies lane of the owner thereof, named Stodie. Sir john Stodie Vintner Mayor in the year 1357. gave it with all the Quadrant, wherein Vintners hall The Vintner's hall. now standeth, with the tenements round about unto the Vintners: the Vintners builded for themselves a fair hall there, and also 13. Alms houses, Alms houses of the Vintners. for 13. poor people, which are kept of charity, rend free. These Vintners as well Englishmen as strangers borne, were of old time great Bordeaux merchants, of Gascoigne Bordeaux Merchants Gascoin wine 4. pence the gallon. & French wines, divers of them were Mayors of this city, namely john Adrian Vintner, Reginald at Conduct, john Oxenford, Henry Picard that feasted the kings of England, France, Scotland, & Cyprus. john Study that gave Stodios lane to the Vintners: the four last were Mayors in the reign of Edward the third, and yet Gascoine wines were then to be sold at London, not above iiij. pence, nor Reynish wine above six pence the gallon. The king's sons supped in the Vintrie● William Moore Vintner Mayor, in the reign of Richard the second. In the reign of Henry the fourth, the young prince Henry, Thomas Duke of Clarence, john Duke of Bedford, and Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, the king's sons, being at supper amongst the merchants of London in the vintry, in the house of Lewes john, Henry Schogan H. Scogan. sent to them a ballad beginning thus. My noble sons and eke my Lords dear, I your father, called unworthily, Sand unto you, this ballad following here, Written with mine own hand full rudely, Although it be that I not reverently Have written to your estates, I you pray Mine uncunning, taketh benignly, For God's sake, and harken what I say. Than follow of verse 23. staves, containing a persuasion from losing of time, follily in lust, & vice, but to spend the same in virtue and in godliness, as ye may read in Geffrey Chawcer Chaucer, fol. ● 334. & 335. his works lately printed. The successors of those Vintners and wine Drawers that retailed by the gallons, pottle, quart, and pint, were all incorporated by the name of wine tunners, Wine tunners incorporated the 15. of H. the sixth. in the 15. of Henry the sixth. Having thus much not without travail, & some charges noted for the antiquity of these Vintners, The Vintoners one of the 12. principal companies The readiest to speak not always the wisest men. about two years since or more I repaired to the common hall of that company, and there showed, and read it in a court of Assistance, requiring them as being one of the principal companies in this city (of whom I meant therefore to writ the more at large) if they knew any more which might ●ound to their worship or commendation, at their leisure to sand it me, and I would join it to my former collection: at which time I was answered by some that took upon them the speech, that they were none of the principal, but of the inferior companies, and so willing me to leave them I departed, and never since heard from them, which hath somewhat discouraged me any farther to travail amongst the companies to learn aught at their hands. Next is Palmer's lane now called Anchor lane: Palmer's lane or anchor lane plumbers hall. the plumbers have their hall there, but are tenants to the Vintners. Than is Worcester house, Worster house. sometimes belonging to the Earls of Worcester, now divided into many tenements. Than is the Old swan, Old Swan a great Brewhouse: And this is all on the Thames side, that I can note in this ward. On the land side in the royal street is Pater noster lane, pater noster lane. and the fair parish church of S. Michael called Pater noster church in the Royal: this church was new builded and made a college of S. Spirit, and S. Mary, founded by Richard Whittington Mercer, 4. times Mayor, for a master, 4. fellows masters of Art, clerks, conducts, chorists, etc. and an alms house called God's house, or hospital Parish church of S. Michael's pater noster a College one Almesehouse or Hospital. for thirteen poor men, one of them to be Tutor, and to have xuj. ●. the week the other twelve each of them to have xiv. ●. the week for ever, with other necessary provisions, an hutch with three locks, a common seal etc. These were (as the manner was then) bound to pray for the good estate of Richard Whitington, and Alice his wife their founders, and for Sir William Whitington knight, and Dame joan his wife, and for Hugh Fitzwaren, and Dame Mould his wife, the fathers and mothers of the said Richard Whitington, and Alice his wife, for king Richard the second, and Thomas of Wodstocke Duke of Gloucester, special Lords and Promoters of the said Richard Whitington, etc. The licence for this foundation was granted by king Henry the fourth the eleventh of his reign, and in the twelfth of the same king's reign, the Mayor and Commonalty of London, granted to Richard Whitington a vacant piece of ground, thereon to build his College in the Royal, all which was confirmed by Henry the sixth, the third of his reign, to john Coventrie, jenkin Carpenter, and William Grove Executors to Richard Whitington. This foundation was again confirmed by Parliament, the tenth of Henry the 6 and was suppressed by the statute of Edward the 6. The Almsehouses with the poor men do remain, and are paid by the Mercers, this Richard Whitington, Richard whitington thrice buried. was in this Church three times buried first by his Executors under a fair monument, then in the reign of Edward the 6. the Parson of that Church thinking some great riches (as he said) to be buried with him, caused his monument to be broken, his body to be spoiled of his Leaden sheet, an● again the second time to be buried: and in the reign of Queen Mary, the parishioners were forced to take him up to lap him in lead as afore to bury him the third time, and to place his monument, or the like over him again, which remaineth and so he resteth. Thomas Windford Alderman, was buried in this Church, 1448. Arnold Macknam Uintener, a merchant of Burdious. 1457. Sir Hacre Tanke, or Hartancleux knight of the Garter, Sir Edmond Mulshew knight, near to Thomas Cokham Recorder of London, the Lady Kyme, Sir William Oldhall knight, 1460. William Barnocke, Sir john Young Grocer Maier, 1466. Agnes daughter to Sir johu Young, first married to Robert Sherington, after to Robert Mulleneux, then to William Cheynne● Esquire, john Having Gentleman, William Roswel Esquire, William Postar Clerk of the Crown, 1520. Sir William Bayly Draper Maior, 1533. with Dame Katheren his wife, leaving xuj. children. john Heydon mercer, Sheriff 1582. who gave Legacies to the thirteen Alms men, and otherwise for a Lecture At the upper end of this street, is the Tower Royal, Tower Royal builded about Henry the I. as may be supposed. whereof that street taketh name, this Tower and great place was so called of pertaining to the kings of this Realm, but by whom the same was first builded, or of what antiquity the same hath continued, I have not read more than that in the reign of Edward the first, the 2. 4. and 7. years, it was the Tenement of Simon Beawmes, also that in the 36. of Edward the 3. the same was called the Royal in the parish of S. Michael de pater noster, & that in the 43. of his reign, he gave it by the name of his Inn, Frosarde. called the Royal, in the city of London, in value xx. l.by year, unto his College of S. Stephen at Westminster: notwithstanding in the reign of Richard the 2. it was called the Queen's Wardrobe, as appeareth by this that followeth: king Richard having in Smithfielde overcome and dispersed his Rebels, he, his Lords and all his Company, entered the City of London, with great joy, and went to the Lady Princess The Lady Princes lodged in the Tower Royal. his mother, who was then lodged in the Tower Royal, called the Queen's Wardrobe where she had remained three days, and two nights, right sore abashed: but when she saw the king her son, she was greatly rejoiced and said. Ah son, what great sorrow have I suffered for you this day. The king answered and said, certainly Madam, I know it well, but now rejoice and thank God, for I have this day, recovered mine heritage, and the Realm of England which I had near hand lost. This Tower seemeth to have been at that time of good defence, for when the Rebels had beset the Tower of Lo●don, and got possession thereof, taking from thence whom they listed, as in mine Anales I have showed, the princess being forced to fly came to this Tower Royal, where she was lodged and remained safe as ye have heard: and it may be also supposed that the king himself was at that time lodged there. I read that in the year 1386. Lion king of harmony, being chased out of his Realm, by the Tartarians, received innumerable gifts of the King, King Richard lodged in the Tower Royal and of his Nobles, the king then lying in the Royal: where he also granted to the said king of harmony, a Charter of a thousand pounds by year during his life, this for proof may suffice, that kings of England have been lodged in this Tower, though the same of later time hath been neglected, and turned into stabling, for the kings horses, and now let out to divers men, and divided into tenements. In Horsebridge street, is the Cutler's hall, Cutlars hall. which sometime belonged to Simon Dolesley Grocer Mayor, in the year 1359, they of this Company, were of old time divided into three arts, or sorts of Workmen, to wit, the first were Smiths, Forgers of Blades, and therefore called bladders, and divers of them proved wealthy men, as namely, Walter Nele, bladder, bladders or BladeSmithes one of the Sheriffs, the 12, of Edward the third, deceased 1352. and buried in S. james Garlic heath: he left lands to the mending of high ways, about London, betwixt Newgate and Wicombe, Aldgate and Chelmessorde, Bishopsgate and Ware, Southwark and Rochester, etc. The second, were makers of Haftes, Haftemakers. and otherwise garnishers of Blades, the third sort, were sheathmakers, Shethmakers. for sword, Daggers and knives. In the 10. of Henry the 4. certain ordinances were made betwixt the bladders, and the other Cutlars, and in the 4. of Henry the 6. they were all three Companies, drawn into one Fraternity, or Brotherhood, by the name of Cutlars. Than is Knight ridars street, Knightridar street. so called (as is supposed) of Knights well armed and mounted, at the Tower Royal, riding from thence through that street, west, to Creed lane, and so out at Ludgate, towards Smithfield, when they were there to tourney, Just, or otherwise to show their Actiu●ties before the king & states of the Realm. In this street is the Parish church of S. Thomas Thapostle, Parish church of S. Thomas the Apostle. by Wringwren lane, Wringwren lane. a proper church, but monuments of antiquity be there none, left undefaced, except some Arms in the Windows, as also in the stone work, which some suppose to be the Arms of john Barnes Mercer, Maior of London, in the year 1371. Henry Causton Merchant, was a Benefactor, and had a Chantry, there about 1396. Thomas Roman, had also a Chantry there, about 1396. Fitzwilliams also a Benefactor, had a Chantry there, more Sir William Littlesbery, alias Horn, (for king Edward the fourth so named him) because he was a most excellent Blower in a horn, he was a Salter, and Merchant of the staple, Mayor of London in the year 1487 and was buried in this church having appointed by his testament the bells to be changed for 4. new bells of good tune and sound, but that was not performed: he gave 500 marks to the repairing of high ways, betwixt London and Cambridge, his dwelling house, with the garden, and appurtenances in the said parish, he devised to be sold, and bestowed in charitable actions, as his executors, would answer before God: his house called the George in Breadstreet, he gave to the Saltars, they to find a Priest in the said Church, to have six pound thirteen shillings four pence the year, to every Preacher at Paul's Cross, and at the Spittle four pence, for ever, to the Prisoners of Newgate, Ludgate, Marshalsey, and kings Bench, in victuals ten shillings at Christmas, and ten shillings at Easter for ever which are not performed. john Martin Butcher, one of the Sheriffs was buried there, 1533. etc. Than west from the said Church on the same side, was one great messsage, sometime called Ipris Inn, Ipris Inn. so called of William of Ipres a Fleming the first builder thereof. This William was called out of Flanders, with a number of flemings to the aid of king Stephen, against Maude the Empress, in the year 1138. and grew in favour with the said king, for his service, so far that he builded this his house, near unto Tower royal, King● Stephen lodged in the Tower Royal. in the which Tower it seemeth the king was then lodged, as in the heart of the City, for his more safety. Robert Earl of Gloucester brother to the Empress being taken was committed to the custody of this William to be kept in the Castle of Rochester, till king Stephen was also taken, and then the one was delivered in exchange for the other, and both set free: this William of Ipres gave Edredes Heath, now called the Queen's Heath, to the Prior and Canons of the Holy Trinity in London: he founded the Abbey of Boxley, in Kent, etc. In the first of Henry the second, the said William with all the other flemings, fearing the indignation of the new king departed the land, but it seemeth that the said William was shortly called back again, and restored both to the kings favour, and to his old possessions here, so that the name and family continued long after in this realm, as may appear by this which followeth. In the year 1377, the 51 of Edward the third, the Citizens of London, minding to have destroyed john of Gaunt D. of Lancaster, and Henry Percy Marshal, (for causes showed in my Annals) sought up and down, and could not find them, for they were that day to dine with john of Ipris at his Inn, which the Londoners witted not of, but thought the Duke and Martial had been at the Savoy, and therefore, posted thither: but one of the Duke's knights seeing these things, came in great haste to the place where the Duke was, and after that he had knocked and could not be let in, he said to Haveland the Porter, if thou love my Lord and thy life, open the gate, with which words he got entry, and with great fear he tells the Duke, that without the gate were infinite numbers of armed men, and unless he took great heed, that day would be his last, with which words the Duke leapt so hastily from his Oysters, that he hurt both his legs against the form: wine was offered, but he could not drink for haste and so fled with his fellow Henry Persie out at a back gate, and entering the Thames, never stayed rowing, until they came to a house near the Manor of Kenington, Kenington besides Lamb hith. where at that time the princess lay, with Richard the young Prince, before whom he made his complaint, etc. Over against Ipres Inn in Knightriders street, at the corner towards S, james, at Garlic Hith, was sometime a great house builded of stone, and called Ormond place, for that it sometimes belonged to the Earls of Ormonde, Ormond place. king Edward the fourth in the fift of his reign, gave to Elizabeth his wife, the Manor of Greenwich, with the Town and Park in the County of Kent, he also gave this Tenement called Ormonde place with all the appurtenances to the same, situate in the parish of S. Trinítie, in Knightridars street in London, this house is now lately taken down and divers fair tenements are builded there, the corner house whereof is a Tavern. Than lower down in Royal street, is Kerion lane, Kerion lane. of one Kerion sometime dwelling there. In this lane be divers fair houses for Merchants, and amongst others is the Glasiars hall. Glasiars hall At the south corner of Royal street, is the fair parish church of S. Martin, called in the Uintry, parish church of S. Martin in Vintry. this Church was new builded about the year 1399. by the Executors of Matthew Columbars a stranger born, a Burdieur merchant, of Gascoigne, and French wines, his Arms remain yet in the East Window, and is between a Cheveron, 3. Columbins: there lie buried in this church, Sir john Guysors Maior, 1311. Henry Guysors his son, 1343. and john Guysors his brother 1350. he gave to his son Thomas his great mansion house, called Guysors hall in the parish of S. Mildred in Breadstreet, this Thomas had issue john, and Thomas, john made a Feoffment, and sold Guysors hall, Guysors hall corruptly called sopar's hall and other his lands in London, about the year 1386. Thomas deceased 1395. Henry Venner, Bartilmew de la vauch, Thomas Cornwalles one of the Sheriffs 1384. john Cornwalles Esquire, 1436 john Mustrell Vintner, 1424. William Hodson, William Castleton, john Grey, Robert Dalusle Barbar, in the reign of Edward the 4, with this Epitaph. Epitaph As flowers in field thus passeth life, Naked then clothed fable in the end. It showeth by Robert Dalusse, and Alison his wife. Christ them save from power of the fiend. Sir Ralph Austrie Fishmonger Maior, new roofed this Church with timber, covered it with lead, and beautifully glazed it, he deceased, 1494. and was there buried, with his two wives, Ralph Austrye his son gentleman William Austrye and other of that name, Bartrand wife to Grimond Descure Esquire, a Gascoigne, and merchant of wines 1494, Thomas Batson, Alice Fowler, Daughter and heir to john Howton, wife to john Hulton, james Bartlet, and Alice his wife, William Fennor, Roger Cotton, Robert Stockar, john Pemberton, Philip de Plasse, john Stapleton, john Mortimer, William Lee, William Hamstede, etc. Than is the parish Church of S. james, parish Church of S. james garlic heath. called at Garlic hith or Garlic hive, for that of old time on the bank, of the river of Thames, near to this Church Garlic was usually sold, this is a proper church, whereof Richard Rothing, one of the Sheriffs, 1326. is said to be the builder: and lieth buried in the same, so was Walter Nele bladder one of the Sheriffs, 1337. john of Oxenford Uintenar Maior, 1341, Richard Goodcheape, john de Crissingham, and john Withers. Monuments remaining there, Robert Gabeter Esquire, Mayor of Newcastle upon Tine, 1310. john Grisors', William Tilingham, john Stanley, Nicholas Stahan, Robert de Luton, 1361. Richard Lions a famous merchant of wines, and a Lapidary, sometime one of the Sheriffs, beheaded in Cheap, by Wat Tyler, and other rebels in the year 1381. his picture of his grave stone very fair and large, is with his hair rounded by his ears, and curled, a little beard forked, a gown girt to him down to his feet, of branched damask wrought with the likeness of flowers, a large purse on his right side hanging in a belt, from his left shoulder, a plain hood about his neck, kivering his shoulders, and hanging back behind him. Sir john Wrotch, Fishmonger Maior, 1361. deceased 1407. Thomas Stonarde of Oxfordshire, john Bromar Fishmonger, Alderman, 1474. the lady Stanley, mother to the Lord Strange, the Countise of Huntingdon, the Lady Harbart, the Lord Strange, Sir George Stanley, Gilbert Bovet, 1398. a Countiss of Gloucester, and one of her children, William More, Uintener Maior, 1395. W. Venor Grocer Maior, 1389. Robert Chichley Maior, 1421. james Spencer Uintonar Maior 1543. etc. And thus an end of Uintry ward, which hath an Alderman with a deputy, common Councillors nine, Constables nine, Scavenger's four, Wardmote inquest fourteen and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen, in London, at six and thirty pound, and in the Exchequer at thirty five pound, five shillings. Cordwainer street ward THe next is Cordwainer street ward, Cordwainer street warde● taking that name of Cordwainers, or Shoemakers, Curriars, and workers of Leather dwelling there: for it appeareth in the records of H. th● 6. the ninth of his reign, that an order was taken then for Cordwainers and curriars in Corney street, and sopar's lane. This ward beginneth in the East, on the west side of Walbrook, & runneth west through Budge Row Budge Kow. (a street so called of the Budge Fur, and of Skinners dwelling there) then up by Saint Anthonines church through A●theling (or Noble street) as Leyland termeth it, commonly called Wathling street, Watchling street. to the Read Lion, a place so called of a great Lion of Timber placed there at a gate, entering to a large Court, wherein are divers fair and large shops well furnished with broad clotheses, and other draperies of all sorts to be sold, and this is the farthest west part of this ward. On the South side of this street from Budge Row, lieth a lane turning down by the west gate of the Tower Royal, and to the south end of the stone wall, beyond the said gate is of this ward, and is accounted a part of the Royal street, against this west gate of the Tower Royal, is one other lane, that runneth west to Cordwainer street, and this is called Turnebase lane: Turnebase lane. on the south side whereof is a piece of Wringwren lane to the northwest corner of S. Thomas church the Apostle. Then again out of the high street called Wathling, is one other street which runneth thwart the same, and this is Cordwainer street Cordwainer street. whereof the whole ward taketh name, this street beginneth by west Cheap and Saint Mary Bow church is the head thereof on the west side, and it runneth down south through that part which of later time was called Hosiar lane, Hosiar lane in Cordwainer street. now Bow lane, and then by the west end of Aldmary church, to the new builded houses, in place of Ormond house, and so to Earlicke hill, or heath, to Saint james church, the upper part of this street towards Cheap was called Hosiar lane of Hosiars dwelling there in place of Shoemakers: but now those Hosiars being worn out by men of other Trades (as the Hosiars had worn out the Shoemakers) the same is called Bow lane of Bow church. On the west side of Cordwainers street is Basin lane, Bassing lane. right over against Turn basse lane. This Basin lane west to the back gate of the Read Lion, in Wathling street, is of this Cordwainers street ward. Now again on the North side of the high street in Budge Row, by the East end of S. Anthonines church, have ye S. Sithis lane S. Sythes lane so called of S. Scythes church (which standeth against that lanes end: and this place is wholly of Cordwayner street ward: and also the south side of Needlers' lane, Nedelers' lane. which reacheth from the north end of S. Scythes lane, West to sopar's lane. Than somewhat west from S. Anthonines church is that sopar's lane, sopar's lane. which took that name not of making soap there, as some have supposed, but of one Alleyne le Sopar, in the 9 of Edward the second. Than in Bow lane (as they new call it) is Goose lane, Goose lane. by Bow church, W. Essex Mercer had tenemen●es there in the 26. of Edward the 3. Than from the south end of Bow lane, up Watheling street, till over against the read Lion: And these be the bounds of Cordwayner street ward. Touching monuments therein, first you have the fair parish church of S. Anthonines Parish church of S. Anthonine. in Budge row, on the North side thereof. This church was lately re-edified by Thomas Knowls Grocer Mayor, & by Thomas Knowles his son, both buried there, with Epitaphs, of the father thus. Here lieth graven under this stone, Thomas Knowles, Epitaph of Tho. Knowles both flesh and bone Grocer and Alderman, years forty Sheriff, and twice Mayor truly, And for he should not lie alone, Here lieth with him his good wife joane, They were together sixty year, And nineteen children they had in fear etc. Thomas Holland Mercer was there buried 1456. Thomas Windent Mercer Alderman, and Katherine his wife, Thomas Hind Mercer, 1528. He was a benefactor to this church, to Aldemary church, and to Bow: Hugh Acton Merchantaylor buried 1520. He gave 36. pound to the repairing of the steeple of this church: Simon Street Grocer lieth in the Church wall toward the south, his arms be three Colts, and his Epitaph thus. Such as I am, such shall you be, Grocer of London sometime was I, The Kings Wayar more than years twenty, Simon Street Simon Street his Epitaph. called in my place, And good fellowship feign would trace, Therefore in heaven, everlasting life jesus sand me, and Agnes my wife: Kerlie Merlie, my words were tho, And Deo gratias I coupled thereto, I passed to God in the year of grace A thousand four hundred it was, etc. William Dauntsey Mercer one of the Sheriffs buried 1542. Henry Collet Mercer Mayor, a great benefactor to this church, the pictures of him, his wife, ten sons, and ten daughters remain in the glass window on the North side of the church: but the said Henry Collet was buried at Stebunhith. Henry Halton Grocer, one of the Sheriffs, deceased 1415. Thomas Spite Merchantaylor 1533. and Roger Martin Mercer Mayor deceased, 1573. Next on the south side of Budge row by the West corner thereof, and on the East side of Cordwayner street, is one other fair church, called Aldemary church, Parish church of Aldmary. because the same was very old, and elder than any church of Saint Mary in the city, till of late years the foundation of a very fair new church was laid there by Henry Keble Grocer, Mayor, who deceased 1518. and was there buried in a vault by him prepared, with a fair monument raised over over him on the North side the choir, now destroyed and gone, he gave by his testament 1000 ●. towards the building of that church, Richard Chawcer Richard Chaucer father to Geffrey Chaucer the poet, as may be supposed. Vintner gave lands to that church, & was there buried, 1348. john Briton, Ralph Holland Draper one of the Sheriffs deceased 1452. William Taylor Grocer Mayor deceased, 1483. He discharged that ward of fifteens to be paid by the poor, Thomas Hind Mercer buried in S. Anthonines, gave 10. fodar of lead to the covering of the middle Isle of this Aldemary church, Charles Blunt Lord Montioy was buried there, about the year 1545. he made or glazed the East window, as appeareth by his Arms: his Epitaph made by him in his life time thus. Willingly have I sought, and willingly have I found, The fatal end that wrought thither as duty bound: Discharged I am of that I aught to my country by onest wound My soul departed Christ hath bought, the end of man is ground. Sir William Laxton Grocer Mayor, deceased 1556. was buried in the vault, prepared by Henry Keble principal founder of that church for himself but now his bones are unkindly cast out, his monuments pulled down, and the bodies of the said Sir William Laxton and of Sir Thomas Lodge Grocer Mayor, are laid in place, with monuments over them for the time, till an other give money for their place, and then away with them. At the upper end of Hosiar lane towards west cheap, is the fair parish church of S. Marry Bow, Parish church of S. Mary Bow. called de Arcubus, of the stone Arches or Bows on the top of the steeple, or bell Tower thereof, which arching was aswell on the old steeple, as on the new for no other part of the church seemeth to have been arched at any time, yet hath the said church never been known by any other name, than S. Marry Bow, or le Bow: neither is that church so called of the court there kept, but the said Court taketh name of the place wherein it is kept, & is called the court of the arches, but of what antiquity or continuation I cannot declare. This church is of Cordwayner street ward, and for divers accidents happening there hath been made more famous than any other parish church of the whole City or suburbs. First we read that in the year 1090. and the third of William Rufus, by tempest of wind the roof of the church of S. Marry Bow ion Cheap was overturned, Roof of Bow church overturned by tempest. wherewith some persons were slain, and four of the Rasters of 26. foot in length with such violence were pitched in the ground of the high street, that scantly four foot of them remained above ground, which were feign to be cut even with the ground, because they could not be plucked out (for the City of London was not then paused.) In the year 1196. William Fitz Osbert, a seditious traitor, took the steeple of Bow, Bow ste●ple fortified with munitions. and fortified it with munitions and victuals, but it was assaulted, and William with his complices were taken, though not without bloodshed, for he was forced by fire and smoke to forsake the church, and then by the judges condemned, he was by the heels drawn to the Elms in Smith field and there hanged with nine of his fellows. Such was the end of this deceiver, a man of an evil life, a secret murderer, a filthy fornicator, a polluter of concubines, and (amongst other his detestable facts) a false accuser of his elder brother, A false accuser of his elder brother in the end was hanged: God amend or shortly sand such an end to such false brethren. who had in his youth brought him up in learning, and done many things for his preferment. In the year 1271. a great part of the steeple of Bow fell down Bow Steeple fell down, and slew many people men and women. In the year 1284. the 13. of Edward the first. Laurence Ducket Goldsmith, having grievously wounded one Raffe Crepin in west Cheap, fled into Bow church, into the which in the night time entered certain evil persons, friends to the said Raffe, and slew the said Laurence lying in the steeple, and then hanged him up, placing him so by the window, as if he had hanged himself, and so was it found by inquisition: for the which fact Laurence Ducket Laurence Ducket han●ged in Bow steeple. being drawn by the feet was buried in a ditch without the City, but shortly after by relation of a boy, who lay with the said Laurence at the time of his death, and had hid him there for fear, the truth of the matter was disclosed, for the which cause a certain woman named Alice, that was chief causer of the said mischief was burned, and to the number of 16. men were drawn and hanged besides others, that being richer, after long imprisonment were hanged by the purse. The church was interdicted, Bow Church interdicted. the doors and windows were stopped up with thorns, but Laurence was taken up, and honestly buried in the churchyard. This parish church of S. Marry Bow by mean of incrochment and building of houses without, wanteth room in their Church yard for burial of their dead. john Rotham or Rodham citizen and Tailor, by his testament dated the year 1465. gave to the Parson and Church wardens there for ever, a certain garden in Hosiar lane, to be a churchyard, which so continued near 100 years. But now is builded on and is a private man's house. The old steeple of this church was by little and little re-edified, and new builded up, at the lest so much as was fallen down, many men giving sums of money to the furtherance thereof, so that at length, to wit, in the year 1469. it was ordained by a common counsel, that the Bow bell should be nightly rung at nine of the clock. Bow bell to be rung nightly at nine of the clock. Shortly after, john Down Mercer, by his testament dated 1472. according to the trust of Reginald Longdon, gave to the Parson and churchwardens of S. Mary Bow, two tenements with the appurtenances, since made into one, in Hosiar lane, than so called, to the maintenance of Bow bell, the same to be rung as aforesaid, and other things to be observed, as by the will appeareth. Robert Harding Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs 1478. gave to the new work of that steeple 40. ●. john Haw Mercer 10. ●. Doctor Allen 4. ●. Thomas Baldry 4. ●. and other gave other sums, so that the said work of the steeple was finished in the year 1512. The Arches or Bows Bow or Arches on Bow steeple. thereupon, with the lanterns, five in number, to wit, one at each corner, and one on the top in the middle: upon the arches were also afterward finished of stone, brought from Cane in Normandy, delivered at the Customers Key for iiij. ●. uj. ●. the tun, William Copland Taylor, the king's Merchant, and Andrew Fuller Mercer, being churchwardens, 1515. and 1516. It is said that this Copland gave the great Bell, which made the fift in the ring, and to be called the Bow bell, and so to be used to be rung nightly at nine of the clock. I have also been informed, that this bell was first rung as a knell at the burial of the same Copland. It seemeth that the lanterns on the top of this steeple, were meant to have been glazed, and lights in them to have been placed nightly in the winter, whereby travailers to the City might have the better sight thereof, and not to miss of their ways. In this parish also was a Grammar school Grammar school in Bow churchyard. by commandment of king Henry the sixth, which school was of old time kept in an house for that purpose prepared in the churchyard, but that school being decayed as others about this city: the school house was let out for rent, in the reign of Henry the eight, for iiij. ●. the year, a cellar belonging to the parsonage for ij. ●. the year, and two vaults under the church for 15. ●. both. The monuments in this church be these: viz. of Sir john Coventrie Mercer Mayor, 1425. Richard Lambert Alderman, Nicholas Alwine Mercer Mayor, 1499. deceased 1505. Robert Harding Goldsmith one of the Sheriffs 1478. john Look one of the Sheriffs 1461. Edward Banks Alderman Haberdasher 1566. john Warde, William Pierson Scrivener, and Attorney in the common place. In a proper Chapel on the south side the church standeth a tomb, elevate & arched, of some unknown founder. Ade de Book Hatter glazed the chapel and most part of the church, and was there buried: all other monuments be defaced. Without the North side of this church of S. Marry Bow, towards west Cheap standeth one fair building of stone, called in record Seldam, a shed, A shed or standing for the king called crown silde. which greatly darkeneth the said church, for by means thereof all the windows and doors on that side are stopped up: This building was made by K. Edward the third, upon this occasion. In the reign of the said king divers joustings were made in London betwixt sopar's lane and the Cross in Cheap: justing in west Cheap. for the standard stood not then in place where now it is, namely one great justing was there in the year 1330. the fourth of Edward the third, whereof is noted thus. About the feast of S. Michael there was a great and solemn justing of all the stout Earls, Barons and nobles of the realm, at London in West Cheap, betwixt the great cross and the great conduit, nigh sopar's lane, which justing lasted three days: where Queen Philip with many Ladies fell from a stage of timber, notwithstanding they were not hurt at all: wherefore the Queen took great care to save the Carpenters from punishment, and through her prayer (which she made on her knees) she pacified the king and counsel, and thereby purchased great love of the people. After which time the king caused this silde or shed to be made, and strongly to be builded of stone, for himself, the Queen, and other estates to stand in, and there to behold the joustings and other shows at their pleasure. And this house for a long time after served to that use, namely in the reign of Edward the third, and Richard the second, but in the year 1410. Henry the fourth, in the 12. of his reign, confirmed the said shed, or building, with all shops, sellers, and edifices whatsoever appertaining, called Crounsilde Croundsilde. (and in the 8. of the same H. called Tamarside) situate in the Mercery in west Cheap, in the parish of S. Marry de Arcubus in London, and a certain shop in the said parish, between the same shed and the kings high way of west Cheap, annexed to the said shed, with two shops, sellers and edifices whatsoever, as well builded, or any way being over the said shop, as over the entry of the said shed, which were holden of him in burgages, as all the City of London is, and which were worth by year in all issues, according to the true value of them, seven. pound xiii. ●. iiij. ●. as was found by inquisition thereof before Thomas Knowles Mayor, and escheator in the said City. Notwithstanding which grant the kings of England, and other great estates, as well of foreign countries repairing to this realm, as inhabitants of the same, have usually repaired to this place, therein to behold the shows of this City, passing through West Cheap, namely the great watches accustomed in the night, on the even of S. john Baptist, and S. Peter at Midsummer, the examples whereof were over long to recite, wherefore let it suffice briefly to touch one. In the year 1510. the 2. of Henry the eight, K. Henry the eight came in the likeness of a yeoman of his guard, to the king's head in Cheap on S. john's even at night, the king came to this place, than called the king's head in Cheap, in the livery of a yeoman of the guard, with an halberd on his shoulder, (and there beholding the watch) departed privily, when the watch was done, and was not known to any but to whom it pleased him, but on S. Peter's night next following, he and the Queen came royally riding to the said place, and there with their nobles beheld the watch of the City, and returned in the morning. This church of S. Mary, with the said shed of stone, all the housing in or about Bow Church yard, & without on that side the high street of Cheap to the standard be of Cordmayner street ward. These houses were of old time but shedes: for I read of no housing otherwise on that side the street, but of divers shedes from sopar's lane to the standard, etc. Amongst other I read of three shops or shedes, by sopar's lane pertaining to the Priory of the holy Trinity within Aldegate: the one was let out for 28. ●. one other for 20. ●. and the third for xii. ●. by the year: Moreover that Richard Goodchepe Mercer, and Margery his wife, son to jordain Goodchepe, did let to john Daling the younger Mercer, their shed and chamber in west Cheap, in the parish of S. Marry de Arches, for iij. ●. iiij. ●. by the year. Also the men of Bredstréete ward contended with the men of Cordwayner street ward, for a seld or shed, opposite to the standard on the South side, and it was found to be of Cordwainer street ward, W. Waldorne being then Mayor, the 1. of Henry the 6. Thus much for Cordwainer street ward: which hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Counsellors 8. Constables 8. Scavenger's 8. Wardemote inquest men 14. & a Beadle. It standeth taxed to the fifteen in London at 72. ●. 16. ●. in the Exchequer at 72. pound. Cheap Warde. NExt adjoining is Cheap ward, Cheap ward. which also beginneth in the East, on the course of Walbrooke, in Buckles bury, and runneth up on both the sides to the great Conduit in Cheap. Also on the south side of Buckles berry a lane turning up by S. Scythes Church, & by S. Pancrates church, through Needlers' lane, on the north side thereof, and then through a piece of sopar's lane, on both sides up to Cheap, be all of Cheap ward. Than to be begin again in the east upon the said course of Walbrooke, is S. Mildred's church in the Poultry, on the north side, and over against the said church gate, on the south to pass up all that high street called the Poultry, to the great conduit in Cheap, and then Cheap itself, which beginneth by the east end of the said Conduit, and stretcheth up to the North East corner of Bow lane, on the south side, and to the standard on the North side, and thus far to the west is of Cheap ward. On the south side of this high street is no lane turning south out of this ward, more than some small portion of sopar's lane, whereof I have before written. But on the North side of this high street is Conyhope lane, about one quarter of Old jury lane, on the west side and on the East side almost as much to the sign of the Angel. Than is Iremongers' lane, all wholly on both sides, and from the North end thereof through Catton street, West to the North end of S. Laurence lane, and some 4. houses west beyond the same on that side, and over against iron-mongers lane end on the North side of Catton street up by the Guildhall, and S. Laurence church in the jury is altogether of Cheap ward. Than again in Cheap more toward the west is S. Laurence lane before named, which is all wholly of this ward, and last of all is honey lane, and so up to the standard on that North side of Cheap: and so stand the bounds of Cheap ward. Now for antiquities there, first is Buckles berry, so called of a manor, and tenements pertaining to one Buckle, Buckles bury of one Buckle. who there dwelled, and kept his courts. This Manor is supposed to be the great stone building, yet in part remaining on the south side the street, which of late time hath been called the old Barge, of such a sign hanged out near the gate thereof. This Manor or great house hath of long time been divided and let out into many tenements: and it hath been a common speech that when the Walbrooke Barges towed up Walbrook unto Buckles berry. did l●e open, barges were rowed out of the Thames, or towed up so far, and therefore the place hath ever since been called the Old barge, Also on the north side of this street directly over against the said Buckles berry was one ancient and strong tower of stone the which king Edward the third in the 32. of his reign, did grant to his College or free Chapel of S. Stephen at Westminster, by the name of his Tower called Seruesse Tower at Service Tower by Walbrook Buckles berry: this Tower of late years was taken down, by one Buckle a Grocer, meaning in place thereof to have set up and builded a goodly frame of Timber, but the said Buckle greedily labouring to pull down the old Tower, a piece thereof fell upon him which so bruised him that his life was thereby shortened, and an other that married his widow, set up the newly prepared frame of timber, and finished the work. This whole street called Buckles bury on both the sides throughout, is possessed of Grocers and Apothecaries toward the west end thereof, on the south side, breaketh out one other short lane called in records Peneritch street, Penerich street. it reacheth but to Saint Sythes lane, and S. Sythes Parish church of S. Sith or Bennit shrog. Church is the farthest part thereof, for by the west end of the said Church beginneth Needelars lane, Needelars' lane which reacheth to sopar's lane as is aforesaid, this small parish Church of S. Sigh hath also an addition of Bennet shorn (or Shrog, or Shorehogge) for by all these names have I read it, but the ancientest is shorn, wherefore it seemeth to take that name of one Benedict shorn, sometime a Citizen, and Stockefishmonger of London, a new builder, repairer or Benefactor thereof, in the reign of E. the second, so that shorn is but corruptly called Shrog, and more corruptly Shorehog. There lie buried in this Church Richard Lincoln Fell-monger, 1548. john Fresh Mercer Maior 1394. john Rochforde and Robert Rochforde, john Hold Alderman, Henry Froweke, Mercer Maior, a thousand four hundred thirty five Edward Warrington, john Morrice, john Huntley, Sir Ralph Waren Mercer Mayor, 1553, Sir john Lion Grocer Maior, 1554. these two last have monuments, the rest are all defaced. Than in Needelars lane have ye the parish church of Saint Pancrate, Parish church of S. pancrate justices charged to punish such assel be●s from their churches Elizabeth 14. a proper small church, but divers rich Parishioners therein, and hath had of old time many liberal benefactors, but of late such as (not regarding the order taken by her Majesty) the least bell in their church being broken, have rather sold the same for half the value, than put the parish to charge with new casting: late experience hath proved this to be true, besides the spoil of the monuments there. In this Church there are buried Sir Acre, john Acre, john Barens Mercer, Maior, 1370. john Beston and his wife, Robert Rayland, john Hamber, john Gage, john Rowley, john Lamb, john Hadley Grocer, Mayor, 1379. Richard Gardener Mercer, Maior, 1478. john Stockton Mercer, Maior, 1470. john Dane Mercer, john Parker, Robert Martial Alderman, 1439. Robert Corcheforde. Robert Hatfield, and Robert Hatfielde, Nicholas Wilfilde, and Thomas his son, the monuments of all which be defaced and gone. There do remain of Robert Burley 1360. Richard Wilson, 1525. Robert Packenton Mercer, ●slaine with a Gun shot at him in a morning, the thirteenth of November as he was going to morrow Mass, from his house in Cheap, to S. Thomas of Acars in the year 1536. the murderer was never discovered, but by his own confession made when he came to the Gallows at Banbery to be hanged for Felony. Thomas Wardbury Haberdasher 1545. james Huish Grocer. 1590. Ambrose Smith etc. Than is a part of sopar's lane turning up to Cheap, by the assent of Stephen Abunden, Maior, the Peperars in sopar's lane were admitted to cell all such spices, and other wares, as Grocers now use to cell, retaining the old name of Peperars in sopar's lane, Pepperars in sopar's lane. till at length in the reign of Henry the sixth the same sopar's lane was inhabited by Cordewainers and Curriars, after that the Peperars or Grocers had seated themselves in a more open street, to wit in Buckles bury, where they yet remain. Thus much for the south wing of Cheapeward. Now to begin again on the bank of the said Walbrooke, at the east end of the high street, which is the main body of The Poultry. this ward: first over against the parish church of S. Mildred, on the south side of the Poultry, up to the great Conduit, have ye divers fair houses, sometimes inhabited by Poulters, now by Grocers, Haberdashers, and Upholders, at the west end of this Poultry, on the south side, have ye the great Conduit, The great Conduit in Cheap. which is the beginning of west Cheap. This Conduit was the first sweet water that was conveyed by pipes of lead under ground, to this place in the City, from Paddington it was castellated with stone and cesterned in lead which was begun in the year 1285. Henry Wales being then Mayor. This Conduit was again new builded by Thomas Ilame one of the Sheriffs in the year, 1479. beyond this Conduit, on the south side of Cheap be now fair and large houses, for the most part possessed of Mercers up to the north corner of Cordwainer street, corruptly called Bow lane, which houses in former time were but shedes (or shops) with solars over them, as of late one of them remained at sopar's lane end, wherein a woman sold seeds, roots, and herbs, but those sheds or shops, by incrochmentes on the high street, are now largely builded on both sides outward, and also upward toward heaven, some three, four, or five stories on high. etc. On the north side of the Poultry, is the proper parish church parish church of S. Mildred of S. Mildrede, which was new builded upon Walbrooke, in the year 1457. john Saxton then Parson gave 32. pounds towards the building of the new Choir there which now standeth upon the course of Walbrook, Level Puery, and Richard Keston have their Arms in the east Windows as Benefactors. All the rooffing of that Church is garnished with the Arms of Thomas Aschehul, one of the Churchwardens in the year 1455. who was there buried, Thomas Morsted Esquire and Chirurgeon to king Henry the 4. 5. and 6. one of the Sheriffs of London, in the year 1436. gave unto this Church a parcel of ground containing in length from the course of Walbrooke, toward the west, 45. foot, and in breadth, from the Church towards the north 35. foot, being within the gate of Scalding house, or Scalding Wike in the said parish, to make a Churchyard wherein to bury their dead, Richard Shore Draper, one of the Sheriffs 1505. gave fifteen pound for making a porch, to this church. Buried here, as by his monuments appeareth: john Hildy Poulter, 1416, john Kendal 1468, john Garland 1476. Robert Bois, 1485: and Simon Lee, Poulters, 1487. Thomas Lee of Essex, Gentleman, William Haclingridge, Christopher Feliocke, 1494. Robert Dreyton Skinner. 1484. john Christopherson, Doctor of Physic, 1524. William Turner Skinner, 1536. Blaze White Grocer, 1558. Thomas Hobson Haberdasher. 1559, William Hobson Haberdasher, 1581. and Thomas Tusser Gentleman, 1580 with this Epitaph. Here Thomas Tusser, clad in earth doth lie, That sometime made the points of husbandry, By him then learn thou mayst, here learn we must, When all is done we sleep and turn to dust, And yet through Christ to heaven we hope to go, Who reads his books shall find his faith was so. On the north side of the church yard remain two tombs of marble, but not known of whom or otherwise then by tradition, it is said they were of Thomas Monshampe, and William, Brothers about 1547. etc. Of the name of this street, called the Poultry, I have before spoken as also of the lane called Scalding house, or Scalding wike etc. On this north side some four houses west from Saint Mildred church, is a prison house pertaining to one of the Sheriffs, and is called the Compter in the Poultry, and hath been there kept time out of mind, for I have not read of the original thereof. Somewhat west from this Comptar, Compter in the poultry. was sometime a proper Chapel, Chapel of Corpus Christi. of Corpus Christi, and S. Marry, at Coniehopelane end in the parish of S. Mildrede, founded by one named jonyrunnes, a Citizen of London, in the reign of Edward the third, where was a Guild or Fraternity, that might dispend in lands better than twenty pound by year, it was suppressed by Henry the eight, and purchased by one Hobson, a Haberdasher, who turned this Chapel into a fair warehouse, and shops towards the street, with lodgings over them. Than is Conningshop lane, Cony hope lane. of old time so called of a sign of three Coneys, hanging over a Poulter's stall at the lane end. Within this lane standeth the Grocer's hall, Grocer's hall. which Company being of old time called Peperars, were first incorporated by the name of Grocers Grocer's hall first purchased and then builded by the Grocers. in the year 1345, at which time they elected for Custos or Guardian of their Fraternity, Richard Oswine, and Laurence Halliwel, and twenty Brethrens were then taken in, to be of their scocietie. In the year 1411. the Custos or Guardian, and the Brethrens of this Company, purchased of the Lord Robert Fitzwaters, one plot of ground with the building thereupon in the said Conyhope lane for 320. marks, and then laid the foundation of their new common hall. About the year 1429. the Grocers had licence to purchase 500 marks land, since the which time near adjoining unto the Grocer's hall, the said Company hath builded seven Alms houses, Seven alms-houses by the Grocer's hall. for seven aged poor Alms people. Thomas Knoles Grocer Mayor, gave his Tenement in S. Anthonines Churchyard, to the Grocers, towards the relief of the poor Brethrens in that Company, also Henry Keeble Grocer Mayor, gave to the seven Alms people six pence the piece weekly for ever, which pension is now increased by the Masters to some of them, two shillings the piece weekly, and to some of them less etc. West from this Conyhope lane is the old jury, whereof some portion is of Cheap ward, as afore is showed. At the south end of this lane, is the Parish church of S, Marry Colechurch, Parish church of S. Mary Colechurch. so named of one Cole● that builded it, this church is builded upon a vault above ground, so that men are forced to ascend up thereunto by certain steps. I find no monuments of this church, more than that Henry the fourth granted licence to William Martial and others to found a Brotherhood of S. Katheren therein, because Thomas Becker, & S. Edmond the Archbishop were baptised there. Next to that is Mercer's Chapel, sometime an Hospital Hospital of S. Thomas of Acars. entitled of S. Thomas of Acon, or Acars near to the great Conduit in Cheap, for a Master and Brethrens, militia hospitalis, etc. saith the record of Edward the third, the 14. year, it was founded by Thomas Fitz the bald de he●ly, and Agnes his wife, sister to Thomas Becket, in the reign of Henry the second, they gave to the master and brethren the lands with the appurtenances, that sometime were Gilbert Beckets' father of the said Thomas, in the which he was borne, there to make a church: there was also a Charnel and a Chapel over it, of S. Nicholas and S. Stephen, this Hospital was valued to dispend 277. ●. 3. ●. 4. ●. it was surrendered the 30. of Henry the 8. the ●1. of October, and was since purchased by the Mercers, by means of Sir Richard Greshain, and was again set open on the Eve of S. Michael, 1541. the 33. of Henry the eight, it is now called the Mercer's Chapel, Mercer's Chapel and hall. and therein is kept a free Grammar School A free school in the Hospital of S. Thomas Acon. as of old time had been accustomed, and had been commanded by Parliament: there is also a preaching in the Italian tongue to the Italians and others on the Sundays. Here be many monuments remaining, but more have been defaced: james Butler Earl of Ormond, and Dame johan his Countise, the eight of Henry the sixth, john Norton Esquire, Stephen Cavandish Draper, Maior, 1362. Thomas Cavandish, William Cavandish, Thomas Ganon called Pike, one of the Sheriffs, 1410. Hungate of Yorkshire, Ambrose Cresacre, john Trusbut Mercer, 1437. Thomas Norland Sheriff, 1483. Sir Edmond Shakstone Goldsmith Mayor, 1482. Sir Thomas Hill knight, Henry Frowicke, Thomas Ilam Sheriff 1479. Lancelot Laken Esquire, Ralph Tylney Sheriff, 1488. Garth Esquire, john rich, Sir William Butler Grocer Mayor, 1515. William Brown Mercer Mayor, 1513. john Look 1519. Sir Thomas Baldry, Mercer Maior, 1523. Sir William Lock, Mercer Sheriff, 1548. Sir john Allen Mercer Mayor, 1525. deceased 1544. Sir Thomas Leigh Mercer, Mayor, 1558. Sir Richard Malory Mercer Mayor, 1564, Humphrey Baskaruile Mercer Sheriff 1561. Sir George bond Mayor, 1587., etc. Before this Chapel towards the street, there was builded a fair and beautiful Chapel, arched over with stone, and thereupon the Mercer's hall, Mercer's hall. a most curious piece of work: Sir john Allen before named being founder thereof was there● buried: but since his Tomb is removed into the great old Chapel, and his Chapel is made into shops, and let out for rent, by his successors the Mercers. These Mercers were enabled to be a Company the 20. of Richard the second, and king Henry the sixth, in the third of his reign, at the request of john Coventrie, john Carpenter, and William Grove granted to the Mercers, to have a Chaplain and Brotherhood for reeleefe of such of their Company, as came to decay by misfortune on the sea. Next beyond the Mercer's Chapel in Ironmonger lane, iron-mongers lane. so called of iron-mongers dwelling there, in the 8. of Edward the first. In this lane is the small parish church of S. Martin S. Martins Pomery in Ironmonger lane. called Pomery upon what occasion certainly I know not, S. Laurence lane. but it is supposed to be of Apples, growing there where now houses are lately builded, for myself have seen the large void places there, monuments in this church be there none to accounted of. Farther west is S. Laurence lane, S. Laurence lane. so called of S. Laurence church, which standeth directly over against the north end thereof, antiquities in this lane I find none other, then that among many fair houses, there is one large Inn, for receipt of travelers, called Blossoms Inn, but corruptly bosoms Inn, and hath to sign S. Laurence the Deacon, in a Border of blossoms Blossoms Inn or flowers. Than near to the Standard in Cheap is honey lane Honey lane. so called not of sweetness thereof, being very narrow and somewhat dark, but rather of often washing and sweeping, to keep it clean. In this is the small parish church called All-hallows in honey lane, Parish church of All-hallows honey lane. there be no monuments in this church worth the noting. Without this lane is the Standard in Cheap, Standard in Cheap. which john Wells Grocer Maior 1430. caused to be made with a small Cistern for fresh water, having one Cock continually running, when the same is not turned nor locked, this was finished by his Executors. Thomas Knoles, and john Chichley they purchased licence of Henry the sixth, to convey water, to make the Conduit, now whether the Standard in West Cheap so often spoken of in former times, be the same and stood just in this place, or elsewhere, or that the same were removable, may be some question: for it is manifest that in the reign of Edward the third, and at other times when the great iustinges, and other running on horseback were practised betwixt the great Cross, and the great Conduit at sopar's lane end, there was no such Standard, or other Obstacle between them, neither was that street paved with hard stone as now it is, we read that in the year 1293, three men had their right hands stricken off at the Standard in Cheap, Men executed in west Cheap for rescuing of a Prisoner, it is very likely therefore that the old Cross in Cheap (which was then newly builded) was also the Standard. In the year 1326. the Citizens took Walter Stapleton Bishop of Excester and beheaded him with other at the Standard in Cheap: In the year 1399. King Henry the fourth caused the Blanch Charters made by Richard the second, to be burnt at the Standard in West Cheap. In the year 1381. Wat Tylar be headed Richard Lions and others in Cheap. In the year 1461. john Davie had his hand stricken off at the Standard in Cheap, also jacke Cade the Rebel beheaded the Lord Say at the Standard in Cheap, etc. Thus much for the Body of Cheap ward may suffice. Than followeth Cat street Ca●streete. (so called in Records the 24. of Henry the sixth, now corruptly Catteten street, which beginneth at the north end of Ironmonger lane, and runneth to the west end of Saint Laurence church as is afore showed. On the north side of this street is the Guild hall The Guild hall and courts kept. ●●ber Flit wed of this City, wherein the Courts for the City be kept, namely the 1. Court of common Counsel 2. The court of the Lord Maior, and his Brethrens the Aldermen 3. The court of Hustinges 4. the court of Orphans 5. the two courts of the Sheriffs 6. the court of the Wardmote 7. the court of Hallmote 8. the court of requests commonly called the court of conscience 9 the Chamberlains court for Prentices, and making them free. This Guild hall sayeth Robert Fabian, was begun to be builded new in the year 1411. the twelfth of Henry the fourth, by Thomas K●oles then Mayor, and by his Brethrens the Aldermen, and the same was made of a little Cottage, a large and great house, as now it standeth: towards the charges whereof the Companies gave large benevolences, also offences of men were pardoned for sums of money towards this work, and there was extraordinary fees raised, Fines, Amercementes, and other things employed during seven years, and a continuation thereof three years more, all to be employed to this building. The first year of Henry the sixth john Coventrie, and john Carpentar Executors to Richard Whitington, gave towards the paving of this great hall twenty pound, and the next year fifteen pound more to the said pavement, with hard stone of Purbecke, they also glazed some Windows thereof and of the majors Court, on every which window the Arms of Richard Whitington are placed. The foundation of the majors court was laid in the third year of the reign of Henry the sixth, and of the Portch on the South side of the majors court, in the fourth of the said king. Than was builded the majors Chamber, and the counsel chamber, with other rooms above the stairs: last of all a stately porch entering the great hall was erected, the front thereof towards the south, being beautified with images of stone, such as is showed by these verses following, made about some 30. years since, by William Elderton, at that time an Attorney in the sheriffs courts there. Though most the images be pulled down, Verses made on the images over the Guild hall gate. And none be thought remain in town, I am sure there be in London yet Seven images such and in such a place, As few or none I think will hit, Yet every day they show their face, And thousands see them every year, But sew I think can tell me where, Where jesus Christ aloft doth stand, Law and learning on either hand, Names of images. Discipline in the devils neck, And hard by her are three direct, There justice, Fortitude & Temperance stand, Where found ye the like in all this land. divers Aldermen glazed the great hall, and other courts as appeareth by their Arms in each window. William Hariot Draper Mayor 1481. gave 40. pound to the making of two lovers in the said Guildhall, and toward the glazing thereof. The Kitchens Kitchens by the Guildhall builded. and other houses of office, adjoining to this Guildhall were builded of later time, to wit, about the year 1501. by procurement of Edmond Shaw Goldsmith Mayor: since which time the Mayor's feasts have been yearly kept there, which before time were kept in the tailors hall, and the Grocer's hall. Nicholas Alwin Grocer Mayor 1499. deceased 1505. gave by his testament for a hanging of tapestry, to serve for principal days in the guildhall, 73. pound. 6. ●. 8. ●. Now for the Chapel or College of our Lady Mary Magdalen, and of All-saintes by the Guildhall, Chapel or College at Guildhall. called London College, I read that the same was builded about the year 1299. And in a Record I found that Peter fanelore, Adam Francis, and Henry Frowike Citizens gave one messsage with the appurtenances in the parish of Saint Fawstar to William Bramton Custos of the chantry, by them found in the said Chapel, with four Chaplains, and one other house in the parish of S. Giles without Cripplegate, in the 27. of Edward the third, which was about the year 1353. Moreover I find that Richard the 2. in the 20. of his reign, granted to Stephen Spilman, Mercer, licence to give one messsage, 3. shops, and one garden, with the appurtenances, being in the parish of S. Andrew Hubbard, to the Custos and chaplains of the said chapel, and to their successors for their better relief and maintenance for ever. King Henry the 6. in the eight of his reign gave licence to john Barnard Custos, and the chaplains to build of new the said chapel or college of Guildhall, and the same Henry the 6. in the 27. of his reign, granted to the parish clerk in London & Guild of S. Nicholas, for two Chaplains by them to be kept in the said Chapel Chapel or College at Guildhall new builded. of S. Mary Magdalene, near unto the guildhall, and to keep 7. alms people. Henry Barton Skinner Mayor. founded a Chaplain there, Roger Depham Mercer, and Sir William Langford knight, had also chaplains there. This chapel or college had a Custos, 7. chaplains, 3. clerk, and four choristers. Monuments there have been sundry, as appeareth by the tombs of marble yet remaining, seven in number, but all defaced. The uppermost in the choir on the South side thereof above the Revestrie door, was the tomb of john Welles john Wells a principal benefactor to Guildhall college. Grocer Mayor, 1431. The likeness of wells are graven on the tomb, on the Revestrie door, and other places on that side the Quire. Also in the Glass window over this tomb, and in the East window is the likeness of wells, with hands elevated out of the same wells, holding scrolls, wherein is written Mercy, the writing in the East window being broken yet remaineth Welles. I found his arms also in the South glass window, all which do show that the East end and South side the Choir of this chapel, and the Revestrie were by him both builded and glazed: on the North side the Choir the tomb of Thomas Kneseworth Fishmonger Mayor 1505. who deceased 1515. was defaced, and within these 44. years again renewed by the Fishmongers: two other tombs lower there are, the one of a Draper, the other of a Haberdasher, their names not known: Richard Stomine is written by in the window by the Habardasher, under flat stones do lie divers Custos of the Chapel, chaplains & officers to the chamber. Amongst others john Clipstone priest, sometime Custos of the library of the Guildhall 1457. An other of Edmond Alison priest, one of the Custos of the library 1510. etc. Sir john Langley Goldsmith, Mayor 1576. lieth buried in the vault, under the tomb and monument of john Welles before named. This chapel or college (valued to dispense xii. ●. viii. ●. ix. ●. by the year) was surrendered amongst other, the chapel remaineth to the Mayor and commonalty, wherein they have service weekly, as also at the election of the Mayor, and at the Mayor's feast, etc. Adjoining to this chapel on south side was sometime a fair and large library, Library at Guildhall. furnished with books, pertaining to the guildhall and college: These books (as it is said) were in the reign of Edward the 6. sent for by Edward Duke of Somerset, Lord Protector, with promise to be restored shortly: men laded from thence three Carriers with them, but never returned. This library was builded by the executors of R. Whittington, and by William Bury: the arms of Whittington are placed on the one side in the stone work, and two letters, to wit, W. and B. for William Bury, on the other side: it is now lofted through, and made a store house for clotheses. south-west from this Guildhall, is the fair parish church of S. Laurence Parish church of S. Laurence in the Jewry. called in the junie, because of old time since the reign of William Conqueror (that first brought jews from Rouen into this realm) many jews inhabited there about, until that in the year 1290. the 18. of Edward the first they were wholly and for ever by the said king banished The jews banished England, the number of them. The tooth of some monstrous fish, as I take it. this realm, having of their own goods to bear their charges, till they were out of his dominions. The number of the jews at that time banished were 15060. persons whose houses being sold, the king made of them a mighty mass of money. This church is fair and large, and hath some monuments, as shall be showed. I myself more than 60. years since have seen in this church the shank bone of a man (as it is taken) and also a tooth of a very great bigness hanged, up for show in chains of Iron upon a pillar of stone, the tooth (being about the bigness of a man's fist) is long since conveyed from thence● the thigh or shank bone of 25. inches A shank bone of 25. inches long, of a man as is said, but might be of an Oliphant, in length by the rule, remaineth yet fastened to a post of timber, & is not so much to be noted for the length, as for the thickness, hardness, and strength thereof, for when it was hanged on the stone pillar, it fretted with moving the said pillar, and was not itself fretted, nor (as seemeth) is not yet lightened by remaining dry: but where or when this bone was first found or discovered I have not heard, and therefore rejecting the fables of some late writers I overpass them. There lie buried in this church Elizabeth wife to john Fortescue, Katherine Stoketon, john Stratton, Philip Albert, john Fleming, Philip Agmondesham, William Skywith, john Norlong, john Baker, Thomas Alleyne, William Barton Mercer, 1410. William Melrith Mercer, one of the Sheriffs, 1425. Simon Bartlet Mercer 1428. Walter Chartsey Draper one of the Sheriffs, 1430. Richard Rich Esquire of London the father, and Richard Rich his son Mercer one of the Sheriffs, 1441. deceased 1469. with this Epitaph. Respice quod opus est praesentis temporis aewm, Omne quod est, nihil est praeter amare Deum. This Richard was father to john, buried in S. Thomas Acars, which john was father to Thomas, father to Richard L. rich, etc. john Pickering, honourable for service of his Prince, and for the English Merchants beyond the seas, who deceased 1448. Godfrey Bollen Mercer Mayor, 1437. Thomas Bollen his son Esquire of Norfolk 1471. john Atkenson, gentleman, Dame Mary S. Maure, john Waltham, Roger Bonifant john Chayhee, john Abbot, Geffrey Filding Mayor 1452. and Angel his wife 1517. Simon Benington Draper, and joan his wife, john Martial Mercer Mayor 1493. Thomas Burgoine gentleman Mercer 1517. a Countess of Cornwall and Chester, but her name and time is not there apparent, Sir Richard Gresham Mayor 1537. Sir Michael Dormer Mayor 1541. Robert Charsey one of the Sheriffs 1548. Sir William Row Ironmonger Mayor 1593. Thus much for Cheap ward, which hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Counsellors xj. Counstables xi. Scavenger's ix. for the Wardemote inquest xii. and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen at 72. pound, sixteen shillings, and in the Exe●equer at 72. pound. Colemanstreet Ward. NExt to Cheap ward on the North side thereof is Colemanstreet Ward, and beginneth also in the East, on the course of Walbrooke in Lothbury and runneth west on the South side to the end of iron-mongers lane, and on the North side to the West corner of Bassings hall street. On the South side of Lothburie is the street called the old jury, the one half and better on both sides towards Cheap is of this Ward. On the North side lieth Colemanstreet, whereof the ward taketh name, wholly on both sides North to London wall, and from that North end along by the wall, and Moregate East, to the course of Walbrooke. And again from Colemanstreet west to the iron grates: and these be the bounds of this ward. Antiquities to be noted therein are these: First the street of Lothberie, Lathberie, or Loadberie, Lothbery. (for by all these names have I read it) took the name (as it seemeth) of Berie, or Court of old time there kept, but by whom is grown out of memory. This street is possessed for the most part by Founders, that cast Candlesticks, Chafing-dishes, Spice mortars, and such like Copper or Laton works, and do afterward turn them with the foot and not with the wheel, to make them smooth and bright with turning and scrating (as some do term it) making a loathsome noise to the by passers, that have not been used to the like, and therefore by them disdainfully called Lothberie. On the South side of this street, amongst the Founders by some fair houses, and large for merchants, namely one that of old time was the jews Synagogue, The jews Synagogue. which was defaced by the citizens of London after that they had slain 700. jews and spoiled the residue of their goods in the year 1262. the 47. of Henry the third. And not long after in the year 1291. King Edward the first banished the renmant of the jews out of England, as is aforeshowed. The said synagogue being so suppressed certain Friars got possession thereof: For in the year 1257. (saith Matthew Paris) there were seen in London a new order of Friars, called de penitentia jesu, or Fra●res de sacca, Fratres de sacca or de penitentia. because they were appareled in sackcloth, who had their house in London, near unto Aldersgate without the gate, and had licence of Henry the third, in the 54. of his reign, to remove from thence to any other place: and in the 56. he gave unto them this jews Synagogue: after which time Elinor the Queen, wife to Edward the first took into her protection, and warranted unto the Prior, & brethren de Penitentia jesu Christi of London, the said land and building in Colechurch street Colechurch street or Old jury. in the parish of S. Olaue in the jury, and S. Margaret in Lothbery by her granted, with consent of Stephen de Fulborne, under Warden of the Bridge house, & other brethren of that house for lx. marks of silver, which they had received of the said Prior & brethren of Repentance, to the building of the said bridge. This order of friars gathered many good scholars, & multiplied in number exceedingly, until the counsel at Lions, by the which it was decreed, that from that time forth there should no more orders of begging Friars be permitted, but only the four orders, to wit, the Dominick or preachers, the Minorites or Grey Friars, the Carmelites or white Friars, and the Augustine's: and so from that time the begging Friars decreased, and fell to nothing. Now it followed that in the year 1305. Robert Fitzwalter Robert Fitzwalter his house. requested and obtained of the said king Edward the first, that the same Friars of the Sack might assign to the said Robert their chapel or church, of old time called the Synagogue of the jews, near adjoining to the then mansion place of the same Robert, where now standeth the Grocer's hall: and the said Synagogue was at the North corner of the old jury. Robert Large Mercer, Mayor in the year 1439. kept his mayoralty in this house, and dwelled there until his dying day. This house standeth and is of two parishes, as opening into Lothberie, of S. Margaret's parish, and opening into the old jury, of S. Olaves' parish. The said Robert Large gave liberally to both these parishes, but was buried at S. Olaf's, Hugh Clopton Mercer Mayor, 1492. dwelled in this house, and kept his mayoralty there: it is now a Tavern, and hath to sign a Windmill. The Windmill Tavern in the old jury. And thus much for this house sometime the jews Synagogue, since a house of Friars, than a Noble man's house: after that a merchants house, wherein Mayoralties have been kept, and now a wine Tavern. In the Old jury is a proper parish Church of S. Olaue, Parish church of S. Olaue in the jury. in which to the commendation of the parishioners, the monuments of the dead remain less defaced then in many other: First of William Dickman Ferono, or Ironmonger one of the Sheriffs 1367. Robert Haveloke iron-monger, 1390. john Organ Mercer one of the Sheriffs 1385. john Forest Uicker of S. Olaues, and the chapel annexed of S. Stephen 1399. Henry Eriole Taylor, 1400. Thomas Morsted Esquire Chirurgeon to Henry the fourth, fift and sixth, one of the Sheriffs, 1436. he builded a fair new I'll, to the enlargement of this church, on the North side thereof, wherein he lieth buried 1450. Adam Breakspeare Chaplain 1411. William Kerkbie Mercer 1465. Robert Large Mercer Mayor 1440. He gave to that Church 200 pound. john Belwine Founder, 1467. Gabriel Rave Fuller 1511. Wentworth Esquire 1510. Thomas Michael iron-monger 1527. Giles Dew servant to Henry the seventh, and to Henry the eight Clerk of their libraries, and Schoolmaster for the French tongue to Prince Arthur, and to the Lady Mary, 1535. Richard Chamberlain iron-monger, one of the Sheriffs 1562. Edmond Burlacy Mercer 1583. etc. From this parish church of S. Olaue, to the North end of the Old jury, and from thence West to the North end of the iron-mongers lane, and from the said corner into iron-mongers lane almost to the parish Church of Saint Marten, was of old time one large building of stone, very ancient, but of what antiquity, or by whom the same was builded, or for what use I have not learned more than that king Henry the 6. in the 16. of his reign, gave the office of being Porter or keeper thereof, unto john Stint for term of his life, by the name of his principal palace in the old jury: King's palace in the Old jury. this was in my youth called the old wardrobe: but of later time the outward stone wall hath been by little and little taken down, and divers fair houses builded thereupon, even round about. Now for the North side of this Lothburie, beginning again at the East end thereof, upon the water course of Walbrooke have ye a proper parish church called of S. Margaret, Parish church of S. Margaret in Lothburie. which seemeth to be newly re-edified and builded about the year 1440. for Robert Large gave to the Choir of that church, 100 shillings and twenty pound for ornaments, more to the vaulting over the watercourse of Walbrooke by the said church, for the enlarging thereof two hundred marks. There be monuments in this church of Reginald Coleman son to Robert Coleman buried there 1383. This said Robert Coleman may be supposed to be the first builder and honour or Coleman street, and that Saint Stephen's church then builded in Coleman street was but a chapel, belonging to the parish Church of Saint Olaue in the jury: for we read (as afore) that john Forest Uicker of Saint Olaf's, and of the chapel annexed of S. Stephen, deceased in the year 1399. This may be some argument, which I everpasse. Sir Brian Tewke knight, Treasurer of the chamber to King Henry the eight, and Dame Grisilde his wife that deceased after him was there buried, 1536. john Fetiplace Draper Esquire 1464. and joan his wife. Sir Hugh Witch Mercer Knight, son to Richard Witch entombed there 1466. He gave to his third wife three thousand pound, and to maids marriages five hundred marks: Sir john Leigh 1564 with this Epitaph. No wealth, no praise, no bright renown no skill, No force, no fame, no princes love, no toil, Though foreign land by travail search ye will, No faithful service of the country soil Can life prolong one minute of an hour, But death at length will execute his power, For Sir john Leigh to sundry countries known, A worthy knight well of his prince esteemed, By seeing much to great experience grown Though safe on seas, though sure on land he seemed, Yet here he lieth too soon by death oppressed, His fame yet lives, his soul in heaven doth rest. By the West end of this parish church have ye a fair water Conduit, Conduit in Lothbery. builded at the charges of the city, in the year one thousand five hundred forty six. Sir Martin Bows being Mayor: this water is conveyed in great abundance from divers springs without the North wall of the city, lying betwixt Hoxton and Iseldon. Next is the Founder's Hall, The Founders Hall. a proper house, and so long West to the south-west corner of Bassinges Hall street, have ye fair and large houses for merchants: namely the corner house. at the end of Bassinges hall street, an old piece of work builded of stone etc. a part whereof hath been lately employed as a market house for the sale of woollen, Bays, The Bay hall. Wodmels, Flanels and such like. In this north side against the old jury, is Colemanstreete, so called of Coleman the first Builder and Owner thereof, as also of Cole church or Coleman church, against the great conduit in Cheap. This is a fair and large street replenished on both sides with divers fair houses, besides Allies and small tenements in great number. On the east side of this street, almost at the north end thereof, is the Armourers hall: Armourers hall. also on the same side is kings Alley, kings Alley. and Love lane, love lane. both containing many Tenements. And on the west side towards the south end is the parish Church of S. Stephen, Parish church of S. Stephen. where the monuments are defaced, there is one Tomb on the South side the Choir but without inscription. I read that Thomas Bradbury Mercer Mayor, in the year 1509. was buried there, his Tomb is on the north side the Choir, & also one Edmond Harlocke Curriar to be a great benefactor, Sir john Garme, Skirringham, 1468. Richard Hamney 1418. Richard Colsel, etc. By the east end of this church is placed a Cock of sweet water, Cock of water by the Church. taken out of the main pipe that goeth into Lothbery: also in London wall Coduite at London wall. directly against the north end of Coleman street, have ye a conduit of water made at the charges of Thomas Exmen Goldsmith Mayor, 1517. And let here be the end of this ward, which hath an Alderman his deputy, common Councillors four, Constables four, Scavenger's four, of the Wardmote inquest thirteen and a Beadle. It is taxed to the fifteen, in London, at 19 ●. and in the Exchequer' at 19 ●. Bassinges hall ward. THe next adjoining to Colemanstreete ward on the west side thereof is Bassinges hall ward, Bassinges hall ward. a small thing & consisteth of one street called Bassinges hall street, of Bassinges hall, the most principal house of that street whereof the ward taketh name. It beginneth in the south by the late spoken market house called the Bay hall, which is the last house of Colemanstreete ward, this street runneth from thence north down to London wall, and some little distance both east and west, against the said wall, and this is the bounds of Bassinges hall ward. Monuments of building on the east side thereof, amongst divers fair houses for merchants, have ye 3. halls of Companies, namely, the Mason's hall Mason's hall. for the first, but of what antiquity that Company I have not read. The next is the weavers hall, Wevars' hall. which Company hath been of great antiquity in this City, as appeareth by a Charter of Henry the second, Patent of H. 2. in these words, Rex omnibus ad quos etc. to be englished thus, Henry king of England, Duke of Normandy, and of Gwian, Earl of A●diow, to the Bishop, justices, Sheriffs, Barons, Ministers, and all his true Leagues of London, sendeth greeting, know ye that we have granted to the Weavers in London, their Guild to be had in London, with all the Freedoms, and Customs, that they had in time of king Henry Henry the 1. my Grandfather, so that none but they intermit within the city of their craft but he be of their Guild, neither in Southwark or other places pertaining to London, otherwise than it was done in the time of king Henry my Grandfather: wherefore I will and straightly command that over all lawfully, they may treat, and have all aforesaid, as well in peace, free, worshipful, and wholly, as they had it, freer, better, worshipfullier, and wholier, then in the time of king Henry my Grandfather, so that they yield yearly to me two marks of gold, at the feast of S. Michael, and I forbidden that any man to them do any unright, or disease, upon pain of ten pound witness Thomas of Canterbury, Warwick fili Gar. Chamberlain at Winchester. Patent Also I read that the same Henry the second in the 31: of his reign, made a confirmation to the Weavers that had a Guild or Fraternity in London, wherein it appeareth that the said Weavers made wolen cloth, and that they had the correction thereof, but amongst other Articles in that patent, it was decreed, that if any man made cloth of Spanish wool, mixed with English Wool, the Port grave, or principal magistrate of London aught to burn it, etc. Moreover in the year 1197. king Richard the first at Matthew Paris. the instance of Hubert Archbishop of Canterbury and justiciar of England ordained that the woollen clotheses in every part of this realm should be in breadth two yards within the lists and as good in the midst as in the sides etc. King Henry the third granted to the citizens of London that they should not be vexed, for the burels, or clothlisted, according to the constitution made for breadth of cloth, the ninth of his reign, etc. Lower down is the Girdlars hall, and this is all touching the east side of this ward. Girdlars' hall. On the west side almost at the south end thereof is Bakewel hall, corruptly called Blackewell hall, Bakewell hall. concerning the original whereof I have heard divers opinions, which I overpass as fables, without colour of truth, for though the same seemed a building of great antiquity, yet in mine opinion the foundation thereof was first laid since the Conquest of William Duke of Normandy: for the same was builded upon vaults of stone, which stone was brought from Cane in Normandy, the like of that of Paul's Church, builded by Mauritious and his successors Bishops of London: but that this house hath been a Temple or jewish Synagogue (as some have fantasied) I allow not, seeing that it hath no such form of roundness, or other likeness, neither had it the form of a Church, for the assembly of Christians which are builded East and West, but contrariwise the same was builded North and South, and in form of a noble man's house, and therefore the best opinion in my judgement is that, it was of old time belongiug to the family of the Bassinges, Bassinges hall. which was in this Realm, a name of great antiquity and renown, and that it bore also the name of that family, and was called therefore Bassinges Arms of the Bassinges Haugh, or Hall: whereunto I am the rather induced, for that the Arms of that family were of old time so abundantly placed in sundry parts of that house, even in the stone work, but more especially on the walls of the hall, which carried a continual painting of them on every side so close together, as one escutcheon could be placed by another, which I myself have often seen and noted before the old building was taken down: these Arms were a Gerond of twelve points, gold and azure. Of the Bassinges How Bassings hall ward took that name: therefore builders of this house, and owners of the ground, near adjoining, that ward taketh the name, as Coleman street ward of Coleman, and Faringden ward of William and Nicholas Faringden, men that were principal owners of those places. And of old time the most noble persons that inhabited this City, were appointed to be principal magistrates there, as was Godfrey de Magun (or Magnavile) Portgrave or Sheriff, in the reign of William Conqueror, and of William Rufus, Hugh de Buch, in the reign of Henry the first, Aubery de vere Earl of Oxford, after him Gilbert Becket, in the reign of king Stephen, after that Godfrey de Magnavile the son of William the son of Godfrey de Magnavile Earls of Essex, were Portgraves or Sheriffs of London, and Middlesex. In the reign of Henry the second, Peter Fitzwalter: after him john Fitznigel etc. so likewise in the reign of king john, the 16. of his reign, a time of great troubles in the year 1214. Solomon Bassing, Sallomon Bassing and other of that name. and Hugh Bassing, Barons of this Realm, as may be supposed were Sheriffs: and the said Solomon Bassing was Mayor in the year 1216. which was the first of Henry the third, also Adam Bassing son to Solomon (as it seemeth) was one of the Sheriffs in the year 1243. the 28. of Henry the third. Unto this Adam de Bassing, king Henry the third in the 31 of his reign gave and confirmed certain messages in Alderman bury, and in Milk street (places not far from Bassinges hall) with the advowson of the Church at Bassinges hall, with sundry liberties and privileges. This man was afterwards Mayor in the year 1251. the 36. of Henry the third, moreover Thomas Bassing was one of the Sheriffs, 1269. Robert Bassing Sheriff, 1279. and William Bassing was Sheriff 1308. etc. for more of the Bassinges in this City I need not note, only I read of a branch of this family of Bassinges, to have spread itself into Cambridge ●hire, near unto a water or bourn, and was therefore for a difference from other of that name, called Bassing Bassing borne at the bourn, and more shortly Bassing borne. But this family is also worn out, and hath left the name to the place, where they dwelled. Thus much for this Bassinges hall. Now how Blakewell hall Bakewel hall given to the City. took that name is an other question: for which I read that Thomas Bakewell dwelled in this house, in the six and thirtieth of Edward the third, and that in the 20. of Richard the second, the said king for the sum of fifty pounds which the Mayor and Commonalty had paid into the Hanapar granted, licence so much as was in him to john Frosh, William Parker, and Stephen Spilman (Citizens and Mercers) that they, the said messsage, called Bakewell hall, and one garden with the appurtenances in the parish of S. Michael of Bassings haugh, and of S. Laurence in the jury of London, and one messsage, two shops, and one Garden, in the said parish of S. Michael, which they held of the king in burgages, might give and assign to the Mayor and Commonalty for ever. This Bakewell hall Bakewell hall a market place for woollen clotheses. thus established, hath been long since employed as a weekly market place, for all sorts of woollen clotheses broad and narrow, brought from all parts of this Realm, there to be sold. The which house of late years growing ruinous and in danger of falling, Richard May Merchant Tailor at his decease gave towards the new building Bakewell hall new builded. of the outward part thereof 300. pound●s upon condition that the same should be performed within three years after his decease, whereupon the old Bakewell hall, was taken down, and in the month of February next following, the foundation of a new strong & beautiful Store house being laid, the work thereof was so diligently applied that within the space of ten months after, to the charges of five and twenty hundred pounds, the same was finished in the year 1588. Next beyond this house be placed divers fair houses for merchants and others, till ye come to the back gate of Guild hall, which gate and part of the building within the same, is of this ward. Some small distance beyond this gate, the Cooper's have their common hall. Than is the parish church of S. Michael. Cooper's hall, Parish church of S. Michael. called S. Michael at Bassinges hall, a proper church lately re-edified, or new builded, whereto john Barton Mercer and Agnes his wife were great benefactors, as appeareth by his mark placed throughout the whole roof of the Quire, and middle I'll of the church, he deceased in the year 1460. and was buried in the Choir with this Epitaph. john Barton lieth under here, Sometimes of London Citizen and Mercer, And jenet his wife, with their progeny, Been turned to earth as ye may see, Friends free what so ye be, Pray for us we you pray, As you see us in this degree, So shall you be another day. Frances Cook, john Martin, Edward Bromflit, Esquire of Warwickshire, 1460. Richard Barnes, Sir Roger Roe, Roger Velden, 1479. Sir james Yarforde, Mercer Maior, deceased 1527. and buried under a fair Tomb with his Lady in a special Chapel by him builded, on the North side the Quire, Sir john Gresham Mercer Mayor, who deceased 1554. Sir john Ailife Chirurgeon, than a Grocer, one of the Sheriffs, 1548. Nicholas Bakhurst one of the Sheriffs 1577. Wolston Dixie S●●inner Mayor, 1585. etc. And thus I end this ward, which hath an Alderman his Deputy, for common Counsel 4. Constables two, Scavenger's two, for the Wardmote inquest seventeen, and a Beadle, it is taxed to the fiteene in London seven pound, and likewise in the Exchequer at Criplesgate ward. THe Next ward is called of Criplesgate, Cripplegate Warde. and consisteth of divers streets and lanes, lying aswell without the gate and wall of the city, as with in: for first within the wall on the east part thereof, towards the north it runneth to the west side of Bassinges hall ward: and towards the south it joineth to the ward of Cheap, it beginneth at the west end of S. Laurence church, in the jury, on the north side and runneth west to a Pump, where sometime was a well, with two Bucketes, at the south corner of Aldermanburic street, which street runneth down north to Gay spur lane, and so to London wall, which street and lane are wholly on both sides of this ward, and so be some few houses on both the sides from Gay spur lane, by and against the wall of the city, east to the Grates made for the Watercourse of the channels, and west to Cripples gate. Now on the south side from over against the west end of S. Laurence church, to the Pump, and then up Milk street, south unto Cheap, which Milkestreete, is wholly on both the sides of Cripplegate ward, as also without the South end of Milkestreete, a part of west Cheap, to wit from the standard to the Cross, is all of Cripplegate ward. Than down great Woodstreet, which is wholly of this ward on both the sides thereof, so is little Woodstreet which runneth down to Cripplegate. Out of this Woodstreet be divers lanes, namely on the east side is Lad lane, which runneth east to Milkestreete corner, down lower in Woodstreet is love lane, which lieth by the south side of S. Albon's church in Woodstreet, and runneth down to the Conduit in Aldermanburic street. Lower down in Woodestreete is Addlestreete, out of the which runneth Phillippe lane, down to London wall. These be the lanes on the east side. On the west side of Woodestreete is Hugen lane by the south side of S. Michael's church, and goeth through ●o Guthuruns lane. Than lower is Maiden lane, which runneth west to the North end of Guthurouns lane, and up to the said lane on the east side thereof, till against Kery lane, and back again: then the said Maiden lane, on the north side goeth up to Staining lane, and up a part thereof on the east side, to the farthest north part of Haberdasher's hall, and back again to Woodstreet, and there lower down is Silver street, which is of this ward, till ye come to the east end of S. olives church, on the south side, and to monks well street on the north side, then down the said monks well street on the East side thereof, and so to Cripples gate, do make the bounds of this ward, within the walls. Without Cripplegate, Forestreete runneth thwart before the gate, from against the North side of S. Giles church, along to Moore lane end, and to a Postern lane end that runneth betwixt the Town ditch on the south, and certain gardens on the North almost to Moregate, at the east of which lane is a pat-makers house, which house with all other the gardens, houses, and Allies on that side the Morefieldes, t●●l ye come to a Bridge and Cowhouse near unto Fensbery Court is all of Cripplegate ward: then to turn back again through the said Postern lane to Moore lane, which Moore lane with all the Allies and buildings there, is of this ward, after that is Grubstreete, more than half thereof to the straightening of the street, next is Whitecrosse street, up to the end of Bech lane, and then Redcrosse street wholly, with a part of Goldinglane, even to the Posts there placed, as a hounder. Than is Bech lane before spoken of, on the east side of the Read cross, and the Barbican street, more than half thereof, toward Aldersgate street, and so have you all the bounds of Cripplegate ward without the walls. Now for Antiquities and Ornaments in this ward, meet to be noted: I find first at the meeting of the corners of the old jury, Milkestreete, Lad lane, and Aldermanburic, there was of old time a fair well with two buckets, of late years converted to a Pump, A pump at the corner of Aldermanburic street. how Aldermanburic street took that name, many fables have been bruited, all which I overpass as not worthy the accounting, but to be short and plain, I say that this street took the name of Alderman's bury (which is to say a court) there kept in their Bery, or Court hall, now called the Guildehall, which hall of old time stood on the East side of the same street not far from the west end of Guild hall now used. Touching the antiquity of this old Alderman's berry or court, I have not read other then that Richard Renery one of the Sheriffs of London, in the first of Richard the first, which was in the year of Christ 1189. gave to the church of S. Mary at Osney, Liber Osney. Aldermanbery court or Gild hall by Aldermanburic church. by Oxford, certain ground and rents in Aldermanburic of London, as appeareth by the Register of that Church, and is also entered in the Hoistinges of the Guild hall in London: this old Bery court or hall continued & the courts of the Mayor & Aldermen were continually holden there until the new Bery court or Gild hall that now is was builded and finished, which hall was first begun to be founded in the year 1411. and was not fully finished in 20. years after, I myself have seen the ruins of the old Court hall in Aldermanburic street which of late hath been employed as a Carpenter's yard etc. In this Aldermanburic street be divers fair houses on both the sides, meet for merchants or men of Worship, and in the midst thereof is a fair conduit made at the charges of William Eastfielde, sometime Mayor, who took order aswell for water to be conveyed, from Teyborne, and for the building of this Conduit not far distant from his dwelling house, as also for a Standard of sweet water, to be erected in Fleetstreet, all which was done by his executors, as in another place I have showed Than is the parish Church of S. Mary Aldermanberie, Parish church of S. Mary Aldermanburic. a fair Church with a churchyard, and cloister adjoining, in the which cloister is hanged and fastened a shank bone of a man Shank bone of a man 28 inches and a half long. (as is said) very great, and larger by three inches and a half then that which hangeth in S. Laurence church in the jury, for it is in length 28 inches and a half of assize, but not so hard and steel like as the other, for the same is light and somewhat porie and spongy. This bone is said to be found amongst the bones of men removed from the charnel house of Paul's, or rather from the Cloister of Paul's church, of both which reports I have some doubt, for that the late rain Wolf rain Wolf a grave antiquary, collected the great Chronicles increased, and published by his executors. Stationer (who paid for the carriage of those bones from the charnel to the More-fields) told me of some thousands of carry loads and more to be conveyed, whereof he wondered, but never told me of any such bone in either place to be found, neither would the same have been easily gotten from him if he had heard thereof, except he had reserved the like for himself, being one of the greatest searchers, and preservers of antiquities in those parts for his time. True it is that this bone, (from whence soever it came) being of a man, as the form showeth) must needs be monstrous, and more than after the proportion of five shank bones of any man now living amongst us. There lie buried in this church Simon Winchcomb Esquire 1391. Robert Combarton 1422. john Wheatly Mercer 1428. Sir William Estfild, Knight of the bath Mayor, 1438. a great benefactor to that church under a fair monument, he also builded their steeple, changed their old bells into 5. tunable bells, & gave one hundred pounds to other works of that church. Moreover he caused the Conduit in Aldermanbery Conduit in Aldermanburie. which he had begun to be performed at his charges, and water to be conveyed by pipes of lead from Tyburn to Fl●etestréete, as I have said. And also from high Berie to the parish of S. Giles without Cripplegate, where the inhabitants of those parts incastellated the same in sufficient cisterns. john Midleton Mercer Mayor 1472. john Tomes Draper 1486. William Buck Taylor 1501. Sir William Browne Mayor 1507 Dame Margaret jenings wife to Stephen jeninges Mayor 1515. A widow named Starkey, sometime wife to Modie, Raffe Woodcock Grocer, one of the Sheriffs 1586. Dame Mary Gresham wife to Sir john Gresham 1538. Thomas Godfrey Remembrancer of the Office of the first fruits, 1577. Beneath this church have ye Gay spur lane, Gay spur lane. which runneth down to London wall, as is afore showed. In this, at the North end thereof was of old time a house of Nuns, which house being in great decay, William Elsing Priory or Hospital called Elsing Spittle. Mercer in the year of Christ 1329. the 3. of Edward the 3. began in place thereof, the foundation of an Hospital, for sustentation of 100 blind men, towards the erection whereof, he gave his two houses in the parishes of S. Alphage and our blessed Lady in Aldermanberie near Cripplegate, obtaining first the kings licence of Mortmain, under the great seal of England. This house was after called a priory or Hospital of S. Marry the Virgin founded in the year 1332. by V V Elsing, for Canons Regular: the which W. Became the first Prior there, Robert Elsing son to the said W. gave to the said Hospital 12. ●. by the year for the finding of 3. priests, he also gave 100 ●. towards the enclosing of the New churchyard without Aldegate Charterhouse churchyard without Aldersgat, & one other the like without Aldgate. and 100 ●. to the enclosing of the New-churchyard without Aldersgate, to Thomas Elsing his son 80. ●. the rest of his goods to be sold, and given to the poor. This house valued 193. ●. 15. ●. 5. ● was surrendered the xi. of May, the xxij. of Henry the eight. The monuments that were in this church defaced. Thomas Cheney son to William Cheney, Thomas, john and William Cheney, john Northampton Drayer Mayor 1381. Edmond Hungerford, Henry Frowike, joan daughter to Sir Hilliam Cheney, wife to William Stokes, Robert Eldarbroke Esquire 1460. Dame joan Ratcliff, William Fowler, William Kingston, Thomas Swineley & Helen his wife etc. The principal I'll of this church was pulled down, and a frame of four houses set up in the place: the other part of this church was converted into a parish church of S. Alphage, Parish church of S. Alphage and the parish church which stood near unto the wall of the City by Criplesgate was pulled down and the plot thereof was made a Carpenter's yard, with saw pits. The Hospital itself, the Prior, and canons house with other lodgings, were made a dwelling house, the church yard is a garden plot, and a fair gallery on the cloister: the lodgings for the poor are translated into stabling for horses. Elsing Spittle burned. In the year 1541. Sir john William's master of the kings jewels, dwelling in this house on Christmas even at night, about seven of the clock, a great fire began in the gallery thereof, which burned so sore, that the flame firing the whole house and consuming it, was seen all the city over, and was hardly quenched, whereby many of the king's jewels were burned, and more imbeseled (as was said). The Lord William of Thame was buried in this church, and so was his successor in that house, Sir Rowland Heyward Mayor etc. Now to return to Milkestréete, so called of milk sold there (as is supposed) there be many fair houses for wealth merchants, & other: amongst the which I read that Gregory Rokesley chief say master of the king's mints, and Mayor of London in the year 1275. Gregory Rokesley Mayor of London his house rend xx. shillings the year. Parish church of S Mary Magdalen. the third of Edward the first (in which office he continued 7. years together) dwelled in this milkstréet, in an house belonging to the priory of Lewes in Sussex whereof he was tenant at will paying xx. ●. by the year without being bounden to rerparations or other charge: such were the rents of those times. In this Milkestreet is a small parish church of S. Mary Magdaline, which hath of late years been repaired, William Browne Mayor, 1513. gave to this church 40. pound, and was buried there, Thomas Exmew Mayor 1528. gave 40. ●. and was buried there, so was john Mitford one of the Sheriffs, 1375. john Olney Mayor 1475. Richard Rawson one of the Sheriffs, 1476. Henry Kelsey, Sir john Browne Mayor 1497 Thomas Muschampe one of the Sheriffs, 1463. Sir William Cantilo Knight, Mercer 1462. Henry Cantlow Mercer merchant of the Staple, who builded a chapel and was buried therein 1495. john West Mercer Alderman 1517. john Machel Alderman 1558. Thomas Skinner Clothworker Mayor 1596. Than next to this is Woodstréet, Woodstreet. by what reason so called I know not, true it is that of old time according to a decree made in the reign of Richard the first, the houses in London were builded of stone for defence of fire, which kind of building was used for 200. years or more, but of later time for the winning of ground those houses have been taken down, and houses of timber set up in place. It seemeth therefore that this street hath been of the later building, all of timber, (for not one house of stone hath been known there) and therefore called Woodstréet, otherwise it might take the name of some builder or owner thereof. Thomas Wood one of the Sheriffs in the year 1491. dwelled was father to my loving friend William Lambarde Esquire, well known by sundry learned books that he hath published. john Medley Chamberlain of London, john Marsh Esquire Mercer and common Sergeant of London etc. There is also (but without any outward monument) the head of james the fift king of Scots of that name, slain at Flodden field, and buried here by this occasion. james the fift king of Scots his head buried in S. Michael's church in Woodstreet. After the battle the body of the said King being found, was closed in lead, and conveyed from thence to London, and so to the Monastery of Sheyne in Surrey, where it remained for a time, in what order I am not certain: but since the dissolution of that house, in the reign of Edward the sixth, Henry Cray Duke of Suffolk, being lodged and keeping house there: I have been showed the same body so lapped in lead, close of the head and body, thrown into a waste room, amongst the old timber, lead, and other double. Since the which time workmen there for their foolish pleasure hewed off his head: and Lancelot Young at this present master Glazier to her Majesty, feeling a sweet savour to come from thence, and seeing the same dried from all moisture, and yet the form remaining, with the hair of the head, and beard read, brought it to London to his house in Woodstréet, where for a time he kept it for the sweetness, but in the end caused the Sexton of that church to bury it amongst other bones, taken out of their charnel etc. I read in divers Records of a house in Woodstréet then called Black Hall, Black hall in Woodstreet in S. Michael's parish. but no man at this day can tell thereof. On the North side of this S. Michael's church is Maiden lane, now so called, but of old time Ingenelane, or Inglane. Ingene lane or Maiden lane. In this lane the Waxchandlers have their common hall on the south side thereof: and the Haberdashers have their like Hall on the North side at Standing lane end. waxchandlers' hall. This company of the Haberdashers, Haberdasher's hall. or Hurrers of old time so called, were incorporated a brotherhood of S. Katherine, the 26. of Henry the sixth, and so confirmed by Henry the seventh the 17. of his reign, the Cappers and Hat Merchants or Hurrers being one company of Haberdashers. Down lower in Woodstréet is Siluerstreete Siluerstreet. (I think of silver smiths dwelling there) in which be divers fair houses, and on the North side thereof is Monks well street, Monks well street. so called of a well at the North end thereof, where the Abbot of Garendon had an house or Cell called S. james in the wall by Criplesgate, and certain Monks of their house were the Chaplains there, wherefore the well (belonging to that Cell or Hermitage) was called Monks well, and the street, of the well, Monks well street. The East side of this street down against London wall, and the South side thereof to Criplesgate be of Criplesgate ward, as is afore showed. In this street by the corner of Monks well street is the Bowyers Hall. Boyers hall. On the said East side of Monks well street be proper Alms houses Alms houses in Monks well streets. 12. in number founded by Sir Ambrose Nicholas Salter Mayor 1575. wherein be placed 12. poor and aged people rend free, having each of them seven. pence the week, and once the year each of them five sacks of: Charcoals, and one quarter of an hundredth of Faggots of hisgift for ever. Than in little Woodstreet Alms chambers in little Woodstreet. be 7. proper Chambers in an Alley on the west side, founded for seven poor people therein to dwell rend free, by Henry Barton Skinner Mayor, 1416. Thus much for the Monuments of this ward within the walls. Now without the Postern of Criplesgate, Parish church of S. Alphage without Criplesgate. first is the parish church of S. Giles, a very fair and large church lately repaired after that the same was burned, in the year 1545. the 37. of Henry the 8. by which mischance the monuments of the dead in this church are very few: notwithstanding I have read of these following to be buried there, to wit, Elinor wife to john Writh Esquire, daughter to Thomas Arnald Esquire, sister and heir to Richard Arnald Esquire, john her son and heir, Margaret Writh her daughter, john Brigget, Thomas Ruston, Gentleman, john Talbot Esquire, and Katherine his wife, Thomas Warfle, and Isabel his wife, Thomas ●ucie Gentleman 1447. Ralph Rochfort Knight 1439. Ed ●ond Water Esquire, Elizabeth wife to Richard Barnes, sister and heir to Richard Malgrave Esquire of Essex, Richard Gowre Esquire john Gowre Esquire, Francis Baromi of Mi●laine 1546. Sir Henry Grey Knight, son and heir to Geroge Grey Earl of Kent, 1562. Reginald Grey Earl of Kent, Richard Choppin Tallow Chandler one of the Sheriffs 1530. john Hamber Esquire 1573. Thomas Hanley alias Clarenciaux, Herald of Arms, Thomas Busbie Cooper who gave the queens head Tavern to the relief of the poor in the parish 1575. john Whelar Goldsmith 1575. William Bolene Physician 1587. William Bolene 1575. Richard Bolene 1563. Robert Crowley● Uicker and Preacher there: all these four under one old stone in the Choir, the learned john Fox writer of the Acts and Monuments of the English Church 1587. The skilful Robert Glover alias Somerset Herald, 1588. There was in this church of old time a fraternity or brotherhood Brotherhood in S. Giles Church. of our blessed Lady, or Corpus Christi, and Saint Gyles founded by john Belancer in the reign of Edward the third, the 35. year of his reign. Some small distance from the East end of this church is a water Conduit, Water Conduit without Criplesgate. brought in pipes of Lead from Higberie by john Middleton one of the executors to Sir William Eastfielde, and of his goods, the inhabitants adjoining castilated it of their own costs and charges, about the year 1483. There was also a Boss of clear water, in the wall of the churchyard, Bosse in the wall of S. Giles churchyard. made at the charges of Richard Whittington sometimes Mayor, and was like to that of Belingsgat: of late the same was turned into an evil pump, and so is clean decayed. There was also a fair Pool Poole of spring water. of clear water near unto the Parsonage, on the west side thereof, which was filled up, in the reign of Henry the sixth, the spring was coped in, and arched over with hard stone, and stairs of stone to go down to the spring, on the bank of the town ditch: and this was also done of the goods, and by the executors of Richard Whittington. In Whitecrosse street White cross street. King Henry the fift builded one fair house, and founded there a brotherhood of Saint Giles, to be kept, which house had sometime been an Hospital of the French order, Hospital of the French order. & being suppressed, the lands were given to the brotherhood for relief of the poor, One alley of divers tenements over against the north wall of S. Giles churchyard, was appointed to the alms houses for the poor, wherein they dwelled rend free, and otherwise were relieved: but the said brotherhood was suppressed by Henry the eight, since which time Sir john Gresham Mayor purchased the lands thereof, and gave it to the maintenance of a free school, which he had founded at Holt, a market town in Norfolk. In Read Cross street Read Cross street. Libar S. Butolphe. on the West side, from Saint Gyles Church yard, up to the said Cross, be many fair houses builded outward, with divers Alleys turning into a large plot of ground, of old time called the jews Garden: The jews Gardaine, or place to bury their dead. as being the only place appointed them in England, wherein to bury their dead: till the year 1177. the 24. of Henry the second, that it was permitted to them (after long suit to the King, and Parliament at Oxford) to have a special place assigned them in every quarter where they dwelled. This plot of ground remained to the said jews, till the time of their final banishment out of England, and is now turned into fair garden plots and summer houses for pleasure. On the East side of this Read Cross street, be also divers fair houses, up to the Crosse. And there is beech Lane, Beech Lane. peradventure so called of Nicholas de la Beech, Lieutenant of the Tower of London, and put out of that Office in the 13. of Edward the third. This Lane stretcheth from the Read Cross street, to white Cross street, and is replenished, not with beech Trees, but with beautiful houses, of stone, brick, and timber. Amongst the which, was of old time, a great house pertaining to the Abbot of Ramsey, The Abbot of Ramsey his Inn. for his lodging when he repaired to the City: It is now called Drewry house, of Sir drew Drewry, a worshipful owner thereof. On the North side of this beech Lane, towards White Cross street, the Drapers of London have lately builded 8. Alms houses Alms houses in Beech lane. of brick and timber, for 8. poor Widows of their own Company, whom they have placed there Rend free, according to the gift of the Lady Askewe, Widow to Sir Christopher Askewe sometime Draper and Maior. 1533. Than in Golding Lane be also Alms houses, Golding Lane Alms houses there. 13. in number, and so many poor people placed in them Rent free, and every one hath two pence by the week for ever. Of the foundation of Thomas Hayes Chamberlain of London, in the latter time of Henry the eight, he left fair lands about Iseldonne, to maintain his foundation: Master iron-monger hath the Order of them. On the West side of the Read Cross, is a street called the Barbican, because sometime there stood on the North side thereof, a Burgh-Kening Burgh Kening or Barbican. or Watch Tower of the city, called in some language a Barbican, as a bikening is called a Becon: this Brugh-Kening was by the name of the Manner of Base court, was given by Edward the 3. to Robert Vfford Earl of Suffolk, and is now pertaining to Peregrine Bartie, Lord Willoughby of Ersby. Next adjoining to this, is one other great house, called Garterhouse, Garterhouse sometime builded by Sir Thomas Writhe, (or Writhesley) knight, Alias Garter, principal King of Arms, second son of Sir john Writhe knight, Alias Garter, and was uncle to the first Thomas Earl of Southampton Knight of the Gartar, and Chancellor of England: he built this house, and in the top thereof, a Chapel, which he dedicated by the name of S. Trinitatis in Alto. Thus much for that part of Cripplegate Warde without the wall, whereof more shallbe, spoken in the subburbe of that part. This Ward hath an Alderman & his Deputy within the gate. Common Counsel eight. Constables nine. scavengers twelve. For Wardmote Inqueast ffftéene, and a Beadle. Without the gate, it hath also a Deputy. Common Counsel two. Constables four. scavengers four. Wardmote Inquest seventeen, and a Beadle. It is taxed in London to the fifteen, at forty pound, and in the Exchequer, at thirty nine pound ten shillings. Aldersgate Ward. THe next is Aldersgate Ward, Aldersgate Ward. taking name of that North gate of the city: this Ward also consists of divers Streets and Lanes, lying aswell within the gate, and Wall, as without: and first to speak of that part within the gate, thus it is. The East part thereof, joineth unto the west part of Cripplegate Ward in Engain Lane, or Maiden Lane. It beginneth on the North side of that lane, at staining Lane end, and runneth up that Lane, from the Haberdasher's Hall, to S. Mary Staining church: and by the church East, winding almost to Woodstréete. And West through Oatelane, Oateland. and then by the South side of Bacon house, to Noble street, and back again by Lilipot lane, (which is also of that Ward) to Maiden Lane, and so on that North side, west to S. john Sacharies' church, and to Faster Lane. Now on the South side of Ingaine (or Maiden Lane) is the West side of Guthuruns Lane, to Kery Lane, and Kery Lane itself (which is of this Ward) and back again into Engainlane, by the North side of the Goldsmith's Hall, to Faster Lane: and this is the East wing of this Ward. Than is Foster Lane almost wholly of this Ward, and beginneth in the South toward Cheap, on the East side by the North side of S. Foster's church, and runneth dow● North west by the West end of Engaine Lane, by Lilipot Lane, and Oat Lane, to Noble street, and through that by Shelly house (of old time so called, as belonging to the Shelleyes) for Sir Thomas Shelley knight, was owner thereof in the 1. of Hen. the 4. It is now called Bacon house, Shelleyes house, now Bacon house. because the same was new builded by Sir Nicholas Bacon Lord Keeper of the great Seal. Down on that side by the Lane, by Sergeant Fleetwoods' house, (Recorder of London, who also new builded it) to S. Olaves' Church in Siluer-stréet, which is by the Northwest end of this Noble street. Than again in Foster Lane, this Ward beginneth on the West side thereof, over against the south-west corner of Saint Foster's Church, and runneth down by S. Leonards church, by Pope Lane end, and by S. Anus Lane end, which Lane is also of this Ward, North to the stone wall by the wall of the City, over against Bacon house, which is also of this Ward. Than have ye the Main street of this Ward, which is called S. Martin's Lane, S. Martins Lane. which includeth S. Martin on the East side thereof, and so down on both the sides to Aldersgate. Aldersgate street. And these be the bounds of this Ward within the wall and gate. Without the gate, the Main street called Aldersgate street, runneth up North on the East side, to the West end of Hounds' Ditch, or Barbican street: A part of which street is also of this Ward. And on on the West side to Longlane, a part whereof is likewise of this Ward. Beyond the which Aldersgate street, is Cosewell street up to the Bars. And on this West side of Aldersgate street, by S. Buttolphes church, is Briton street, which runneth West to a Pump, and then North to the gate which entereth the church yard, sometime pertaining to the Priory of S. Bartholomewe on the East side: and on the West side towards S. Bartholomewes' Spittle, to a pain of posts there fixed. And these be the bounds of this Aldersgate Ward without. The antiquities be these, First in Staining Lane, Staining Lane Alms houses there. of old time so called (as may be supposed) of Painter stainers dwelling there. On the East side thereof, adjoining to the Haberdasher's Hall, be ten Alms houses pertaining to the Haberdashers, wherein be placed ten Alms people of that Company, every of them having eight pence the piece every Friday for ever, by the gift of Thomas Huntlowe Haberdasher, one of the Sheriffs in the year 1539. And sir George Baron gave them ten pounds by the year for ever. Than is the small parish Church of Saint Mary, called Staining, Parish Church of Saint Mary Staining. because it standeth at the North end of Staining Lane. In the which Church being but newly builded, there remain no Monument worth the noting. Than is Engaine Lane, (or Maiden Lane) and at the northwest corner thereof, the parish Church of S. john Sachary. Parish Church of Saint john Sachary. A fair Church, with the Monuments well preserved, of sir Nicholas Twiford Goldsmith, Maior, 1388. and Dame Margery his wife: of whose goods the Church was made & new builded, with a Tomb for them and others of their race, 1390. Drugo Barentine Maior, 1398. He gave fair lands to the Goldsmiths: he dwelled right against the goldsmiths Hall. Between the which Hall and his dwelling house, he builded a Galorie thwarting the street, whereby he might go from the one to the other: he was buried in this church, and Christian his wife, 1427. john Adis Goldsmith 1400. And Margaret his wife. john Francis Goldsmith Mayor, 1400. And Elizabeth his wife 1450. john Sutton Goldsmith one of the Sheriffs, 1413. Bartholomew Seman Golde-heater, Master of the King's Mints, within the Tower of London, and the Town of Calais, 1430. Thomas Leichfield, john Hewet Esquire, 1500. William Brekespere Goldsmith, 1461. Christopher Eliot Goldsmith, 1505. Bartholomew Read Goldsmith Maior, 1502. who was buried in the Charterhouse, and gave to this his parish Church one hundred pound. His wife was buried in this church, with a fair Monument, her Picture, in habit of a widow. Thomas Keyton Lorimar, 1522. William Potken Esquire, 1537. john Cornish with an Epitaph, 147. Robert Fenruther Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs in the year, 1512. On the East side of this Faster Lane, at Engeyne Lane end, is the goldsmiths Hall, The Goldsmiths Hall. a proper house, but not large. And therefore to say that Bartholomew Read Goldsmith, Maior, in the year 1502. kept such a feast in this Hall, as some have fabuled is far incredible, R. Grasion. and altogether unpossible, considering the smallness of the Hall, and number of the guests, which as they say, were more than an hundredth persons of great estate. For the Messes & dishes of meats to them served, the paled park in the same Hall, furnished with fruitful Trees, beasts of venery, and other circumstances of that pretended feast well weighed, Westminster Hall would hardly have sufficed, and therefore I will overpass it, and note somewhat of principal Goldsmiths. First I read, that Leefstane Goldsmith was Provest of this City, in the reign of Henry the 1. Also that Henry Fitz Alewin, Fits Leafstane Goldsmith was Mayor of London, The first Mayor of London was a Goldsmith. in the first of Richard the first, and continued Mayor 24. years. Also that Gregory Principal men of the City Goldsmiths Rocksly,. chief say-maister of all the King's Mints within England, (and therefore by my conjecture) a Goldsmith was Mayor in the 3. of Edward the first, and continued Mayor 7. years together. The William Farindon Goldsmith, Alderman of Farindon ward, one of the Sheriffs 1281. the 9 of Edward the first, who was a Goldsmith, as appeareth on record, as shall be showed in Farindon Warde. Than Nicholas Farindon his son, Goldsmith, Alderman of Farindon Warde, four times Mayor in the reign of Edward the second, etc. For the rest of later time are more manifestly known, and therefore I leave them. Than at the North end of Noble street, is the parish Church of S. Olaue in Silver street, Parish Church of Saint Olaue in Silver street. a small thing, and without any noteworthy monuments. On the West side of Foster Lane, is the small parish Church of S. Leonards, Parish church of S. Leonard in Foster lane. for them of S. Martin's be grand. A number of Tenements being lately builded in place of the great Colegiate-Church of Saint Martin: that parish is mightily increased. In this Church remain these Monuments. First without the Church, is graven in stone on the East end, john Broke it well, an especial reedifier, or new builder thereof. In the Choir graven in brass, Robert Purfet Grocer, 1507. Robert Trappis Goldsmith, 1526. with this Epitaphe. When the bells be merrily rung, And the Mass devoutly sung, And the meat merrily eaten, Than shall Rober Trips his wives And children be forgotten. Than in Pope lane) Pope Lane. Parish church of S. Anne in the Willows. so called of one Pope that was owner thereof) on the North side, is the parish church of S. Anne, in the willows, so called, I know not upon what occasion: but some say, of willows growing thereabouts: but now there is no such void place for willows to grow, more than the church yard, wherein do grow some high Ash trees. This church by casualty of fire, in the year 1548. was burnt, so far as it was Combustible, but since being newly repaired, there remain a few monuments of antiquity of Thomas Beckhenton, Clarke of the pipe, who was buried there 1499. Ralphe Caldwell gentleman of Grey's Inn 1527. john Lord Sheffield: john Herenden Mercer Esquire, 1572. these verses on an old stone. Queen an Tris de c vul stra os guis ti ro 'em near vit h san Chris mi T mu la. Than in S. Martin's lane, was of old time a fair and large College of a Dean and secular Cannons, or Priests, which house had great privileges both of Sanctuary & otherwise, and was called S. College of S. Martin le grand. Martins le grand: Founded by Ingelricus & Ewardus his brother, in the year 1056. and confirmed by William the Conqueror, as appeareth by his Charter, dated 1068. This College was surrendered to K. E. the 6. the 2. of his reign, in the year 1548. and the same year the College church was pulled down, and in place thereof many houses forthwith builded, highly prized, and let to strangers borne, and other such as claim the benefit of the privileges which were at the first granted only to the church, and to the Dean, Prebends & Canons, serving God according to the foundation. Lower down on the west side of S. Martin's lane, in the parish of S. Anne, almost by Aldersgate, is one great house, commonly called Northumberland house: Northumberland house, or Queen Jane's Wardrobe. it belonged to Hen. Percy. K. Hen. the 4. in the 7. of his reign, gave this house, with the tenements thereunto appertaining, to Queen lane his wife, and then it was called her Wardrobe. Now without Aldersgate, on the East side of Aldersgate street, is the Cook's Hall: Cook's Hall. which Cooks or Pastelars were admitted to be a Company, and to have a Master and Wardens, in the 22. of Ed. the 4. From thence along unto Hounds-ditch or Barbican street, be many fair houses. On the west side also be the like fair buildings, till ye come to Longlane, and so to Coswell street. In Britten street Britton street. is one proper parish church of S. But●olphe, Parish Church of S. But●olphe in which church, was sometime a brotherhood of S. Fabian, and Sebestian, founded in the year 1377. the 51. of Ed the 3. and confirmed by H. the 4. in the 6. of his reign. Than H. the 6. in the 24. of his reign, to the honour of the Trinity, gave licence to Dame johan Astley, sometime his Nurse, to Robert Cawod and Thomas Smith, to found the same a fraternity, perpetually to have a Master & two Custose, with Brethrens and Sisters, etc. This Brotherhood was endowed with lands, more than 30. pound by the year, and was suppressed by Ed. the 6. There lie buried, john de bath Wevar, 1390. Philip at vine, Capper, 1396. Benet Gerarde Brewer, 1403. john Bradmor Chirurgeon, Margaret and Katheren his wives, 1411. john Michael Sergeant at Arms, 1415. Allen Bret Carpenter, 1425. Robert Malton, 1426. john Trigilion Brewer, 1417. john Mason Brewer, 1431. Robert Cawod Clerk of the Pipe in the Kings Exchequer, 1466. Ri. Emm●sley, john Walpole, john Hartshorne Esquire, servant to the King, 1400. And other of that family, great benefactors to the church. William Marrow Grocer Maior, & Kathren his wife, were buried thereabout, 1468. The Lady Anne Packinton widow, late wife to joh. Packinton knight, Chirographer of the court of the Common pleas, she founded Alms houses near unto the white friars church in Fléetstreete. And thus an end of this Ward, which hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common counsellors five. Constables eight. Scavengers nine. For the Wardmote Inquest, fourteen, and a Bedle. It is taxed to the fifteen in London, seven pound, and likewise in the Exchequer. Faringdon Warde, Infra, or within. ON the South side of Aldersgate Warde, lieth Faringdon Warde, Faringdon Warde within. called Infra, or within, for a difference from an other Ward of that name, which lieth without the walls of the City, and is therefore called Farindon Extra. Farindon extra, & Faringdon infra, all one Warde, and then divided into twain by Parliament How Faringdon Warde, took that name of William Farindon. These two Wards of old time were but one, and had also but one Alderman, till the 17. of Richard the second. At which time the said Ward for the greatness thereof, was divided into twain, & by Parliament ordered to have two Aldermen, and so it continueth till this day. The whole great Ward of Farindon, both Infra and Extra, took name of William Farendon Goldsmith, Alderman of that Ward, and one of the Sheriffs of London, in the year 1281. the 9 of Edward the first, he purchased the Aldermanry of this Ward, as by this abstract of deeds which I have read thereof may appear. Thomas de Arderne, son and heir of Sir Ralphe Arderne knight, Sir Ralphe Arderne Knight, Alderman of that Ward, now called Faringdon, in the reign of Hen. the third. Anketinus de Avernus, Alderman. Ralphe le Feure Alderman. granted to Ralphe le Feure, Citizen of London (one of the Sheriffs in the year 1277.) all the Aldermanry with the appurtenances within the City of London, and the suburbs of the same, between Ludgate and Newgate, and also without the same gates: which Aldermanry, Anketinus de Ardone held, during his life, by the grant of the said Thomas de Avernus: to have and to hold to the said Ralphe and to his heirs, freely, without all challenge: yielding therefore yearly to the said. Thomas and his heirs, one Clove, (or slip) of Gilli●flowers, at the feast of Easter, for all secular service and customs, with warranty unto the said Ralphe le Feure, and his heirs, against all people, Christians, and jews, in consideratiof twenty marks, which the said Ralphe le Feure did give before hand, in name of a Gersum or fine, to the said Thomas, etc. dated the fift of Edward the first, and witness G. de Rockesley Mayor: R. Arrar one of the Sheriffs, H. Wales, P. le Taylor, T. de Basin, I. Horn, N. Blackthorne, Alderman of London. After this, john le Feure, john le Feure, Alderman. son & heir to the said Ralphe le Feure, granted to William Farendon, William Farendon Alderman. Citizen and Goldsmith of London, and to his heirs, the said Aldermanry, with the appurtenances, for the service thereunto belonging, in the seventh of Edward the first, in the year of Christ 1279. This Aldermanry descended to Nicholas Farendon, Nicholas Farendon Alderman. son to the said William and to his heirs: which Nicholas Farendon (also a Goldsmith) was four times Mayor, and lived many years after: for I have read divers deeds whereunto he was a witness, dated the year 1360. He made his Testament, 1361. which was 53. years after his first being Mayor, Nicholas Farendon lived 53. years after he had been once Mayor. and was buried in S. Peter's in Cheap. So this Ward continued under the government of William Faringdon the Father, and Nicholas his son, by the space of 82. years, and retaineth their name until this present day. This Ward of Faringdon within the walls, is bounded thus: Beginning in the East, at the great Cross in West Cheap, from whence it runneth West. On the North side from the parish church of S. Peter, (which is at the south-west corner of Woodstréete) unto Guthurums' Lane, and down that Lane, to Hugon Lane on the East side, and to Kery Lane on the West. Than again into Cheap, and to Foster Lane, and down that Lane, on the East side, to the North side of Saint Fausters' Church, and on the West, till over against the south-west corner of the said Church, from whence down Fauster Lane, and Noble Street, is all of Aldersgate street Warde, till ye come to the stone wall, in the West side of Noble street. Than by the said wall down to Windsor house, (or Nevil's Inn) and down Monkes-well street, on that West side, and then by London wall to Cripple Gate. And the West side of that same Gate is of Faringdon Warde. Than back again into Cheap, and from Fauster Lane end, to Saint Martin's Lane end, and from thence through Saint Nicholas Shambleses, by Penticost Lane, and Butcher's Alley, and by stinking Lane through Newgate Market, to Newgate. All which is the North side of Faringdon Warde. Than on the South from against the said great Cross in Cheap, West from Friday's street, and down that street on the East side, till over against the North East corners of S. Mathewes Church: and on the West side, till the South corner of the said Church. Than again along Cheap to the old Exchange, and down that Lane (on the East side) to the parish church of Saint Augustine, (which church and one house next adjoining in Watheling street, be of this Ward) and on the West side of this Lane, to the gate which entereth the South church yard of Saint Paul's, and within that gate on the North side, to the Gate that entereth the North church yard: all which North church yard is of this Faringdon Warde. Than again into Cheap, and from the North end of the old Exchange, West by the North Gate of Paul's church yard, up Pater Noster row, by the two Lanes out of Paul's church, and to a sign of the Golden Lion, which is some twelve houses short of ave Mary Lane: the West side of which Lane, is of this Ward. Than at the South end of ave Mary Lane, is Creed Lane: the West side whereof, is also of this Ward. Now betwixt the South end of ave Mary Lane, and the North end of Creed Lane, is the coming out of Paul's Church yard. On the East, and the high street called Bowyer row, to Ludgate on the West side: which way to Ludgate is of this Ward. On the North side whereof, is Saint Martin's church. And on the South side, the turning into the black Friars. Now to turn up again to the North end of ave Mary Lane, there is a short Lane which runneth West some small distance, and is there closed up with a gate into a great house: and this is called Amen Lane. Amen Lane. Than on the North side of Pater Noster row, beginning at the conduit over against the Old Exchange Lane end, and going west by Saint Michael's church. At the west end of which church, is a small passage through the Church, towards the North. And beyond this church some small distance, is an other passage, which is called Paniar-Alley: Paniar Alley. and cometh out against Saint Martin's Lane end. Than further West, in Pater Noster row, is ivy Lane, Ive Lane. which runneth North to the west end of Saint Nicholas Shambleses. And then west Pater Noster row, till over against the golden Lion, where the Ward endeth for that street. And then about some dozen houses (which is of Baynard's Castle Warde) to UUarwike Lane end: which UUarwicke Lane, stretcheth North to the high street of Newgate Market. And the west side of UUarwicke Lane is of this Faringdon Ward. For the East side of UUarwick Lane, of ave Mary Lane, and of Creed Lane, with the UUest end of Pater Noster row, are all of Baynard's Castle Ward. Yet (to begin again at the said Conduit by the old Exchange) on the North side thereof, is a large street that runneth up to Newgate, as is aforesaid. The first part or Southside whereof, from the conduit to the Shambleses, is called Bladder street. Bladder stree● Than on the back side of the shambleses, be divers slaughter houses, and such like, pertaining to the shambleses, and this is called Mount-Godard street. Mountgodard street. Than is the Shambleses itself. And then Newgate Market. And so the whole street on both sides up to Newgate, is of this ward, and thus it is wholly bounded. Monuments in this ward, there be these. First the great Cross in West cheap. Cross in Cheap builded. But in the ward of Faringdon, the which cross was first erected in that place, in the year 1291. in the 19 of Edward the first, upon this occasion. Queen Elinor his wife, died at Herdeby (a Town near unto the city of Lincoln) her body was brought from thence to Westminster. And this King (in memory of her) caused at every place (where the body was stayed in the way) a stately cross of stone to be made and erected, with the queens Image and Arms upon it: as at Grantham, Woborne, Northampton, Stony Stratfoord, Dunstable, S. Albon, Waltham, West Cheap, and at Charing, from whence she was conveyed to Westminster, and there buried. This Cross in west cheap, being like to those other, which remain till this day, and being by length of time decayed, john Hatherley being Maior, procured in the year 1441. licence of King Henry the 6. in the 21. of his reign, to re-edify the same in more beautiful manner, Cross in Cheap new builded. for the honour of the city: and had also licence to take up 200. fodar of lead, for the building thereof, and of certain conduits, and a common Gramarie, and it was very curiously wrought, at the charges of divers Citizens, john Fisher Mercer gave 600. marks towards it, and it was not finished before the year 1486. the second of Henry the seventh. It was new gilt all over in the year 1522. against the coming in of Charles, the fift Emperor, and was new burnished against the Coronation of Edward the sixth. And gilt again in the year 1554. against the coming in of king Philip. Since the which time, the said Cross Corsse in Cheap indited, the Images broken. having been presented by divers juries (or Wardmote Inquests) to stand in the highway, to the let of carriages, etc. In the year 1581. the 21. of june in the night, the lowest Images about the said Cross, were broken and defaced. Whereupon proclamation was made, that who so would bewray the doers thereof, should have forty crowns: but nothing came to light. The Image of the blessed virgin at the time rob of her son, and her arms broken by which she stayed him on her knees, her whole body also was strained with ropes so as it was ready to fall: But was in the year 1595. again fastened and repaired. In the year 1596. about Bartholomewtide, a new Son misshaped (as borne out of time) was laid in her arms. The other Images remaining broken as before. On the East side of the same Cross, the steps being taken thence, under the Image of Christ's resurrection, was set up a curious wrought frame of grey Marble, and in the same an Image in Alabaster of a woman, (for the most part naked) and Thames water Thames water conveyed to the Cross in Cheap. prilling from her breasts: but the same is often times dried up. At the south-west corner of Woodstréete, is the parish Church of S. Peter Parish Church of Saint Peter in Cheap. the Apostle, by the said Cross, a proper Church lately new builded. john shaw Goldsmith Mayor, deceased 1503. appointed by his Testament, the said Church and steeple to be newly builded of his goods, with a flat roof. Notwithstanding Tho. Wood Goldsmith; one of the Sheriffs, 1491. is accounted principal benefactor: because the roof of the middle I'll is supported by Images of Woodmen. I find to have been buried in this Church, Nicholas Farendon Maior, Richard Hadley Grocer, 1492. john Palmer Fishmonger, 1500. William Rouse Goldsmith Sheriff, 1429. T. Atkins Esquire, 1400. joh. Butler Sheriff, 1420. joh. Palmer, Henry Warley Alderman, 1524. Sir john Monday Goldsmith Mayor, deceased, 1537. Augustin Hind Cloath-worker, one of the Sheriffs in the year 1550. whose Monument doth yet remain, the others be gone. The long shop, or narrow shed, encroaching on the high way before this Church, was licenced to be made in the year 1401. for thirty shillings four pence the years rend, but now increased much. Than is Guthuruns lane, Long shop or shed by the Cross in Cheap. so called of Guthurun, sometime owner thereof. The inhabitants of this lane, of old time were goldbeaters, as doth appear by records in the Exchequer. For the easterling money was appointed to be made of fine silver, such as men made into foil, and was commonly called silver of Guthuruns lane, Guthuruns Lane. etc. The Embrotherers' Hall Imbrotherers Hall. is in this lane. john Throwstone Embrotherer, than Goldsmith, Sheriff, deceased 1519. gave forty pound towards the purchase of this Hall. Hugon Lane Hugonlane. on the East side, and Kery lane Kery lane. (called of one Kery) on the West. Than in the high street on the same North side, is the Saddlers Hall. Saddler's hall. And then Fauster lane (so called) of Saint Fausters, Fauster lane. a fair church, lately new builded. Parish Church of S. Fauster. Henry Coote Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs deceased 1509. builded S. Dunston's chapel there. john Throwstone, one of the Sheriffs, gave to the building thereof, one hundred pound, by his testament. john Browne Sergeant Painter, Alderman, deceased 1532. was a great benefactor, and was there buried. William Tryst Selerar to the King 1425. john Standelfe, and john Standelfe Goldsmiths, lie buried there. Richard Galder 1544. Agnes wife to William Milborne Chamberlain of London, 1500. etc. Than down Fausterlane and Noble street, at the North end whereof, is one great house builded of stone, commonly called the Lord Windsor's house, but I have read it by the name of Nevels Inn Nevels Inn or the Lord Winsors house. in silver street, and at the end of Monks well street. Monks well street. In this street on the west side thereof, is the Barber's Chirurgeons Hall, Barber Chyrurgians hall. whom obtained their incorporation in the year one thousand four hundred sixty and four, the second of Edward the fourth, since the which time, they builded their Hall. At the North corner of this street, on the same side, was sometime an Hermitage, Hermitage of S. james in the Wall. (or Chapel of Saint james) called in the Wall, near Cripplegate: it belonged to the Abbey and Covent of Garadon, as appeareth by a record of Edward the first in the twenty seven year. And by a record of Edward the third, the sixtéenth year. William de Lions was Hermit there, and the Abbot and Covent of Geredon, founded two Chaplains, cistercian Monks of their house: in this Hermitage, one of them was founded there, for Aymor de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, and Mary de Saint Paul, his Countess. Of these Monks, and of a well pertaining to them, the street took that name, and is called Monkes-well street. This Hermitage with the purtenances, was in the reign of Edward the sixth purchased from the said King, by William Lamb one of the gentlemen of the king's Chapel, Citizen and cloathworker of London: he deceased in the year 1577. and then gave it to the Cloathworkers in London: with other Tenements, to the value of fifty pound the year, to the intent they shall hire a Minister to say divine service there, etc. Again to the high street of Cheap, from Fauster lane end to S. Martin's, and by that Lane to the Shambels or flesh market, on the North side whereof, is Penticost Lane, Penticost lane the Butchers Hall. containing divers slaughterhouses for the Butchers: and there is the Butchers Hall. Butcher's hall Than was there of old time, a proper Parish Church of Saint Nicholas, Parish Church of S. Nicholas. whereof the said flesh market took the name, and was called S. Nicholas Shambleses. This church with the tenements, and Ornaments, was by Henry the eight, given to the Mayor and commonalty of the city, towards the maintenance of the new Parish church, then to be erected in the late dissolved church of the Grey Friars: so was this church dissolved and pulled down. In place whereof, and of the church yard, many fair houses are now builded in a court with a well, etc. Than is Stinking lane, Stinking lane, or Chick lane so called, or Chicke-lane at the East end of the Grey friars church. And then the late dissolved church of the Grey Friars: Graye Friars Church. The Original whereof, was this. The first of this order of Friars in England nine in number, arrived at Dover: five of them remained at Canterbury, the other 4. came to London, were lodged at the preaching Friars in Oldboorn, for the space of fifteen days: and then they hired an house in Cornhill, of john Trevers, one of the Sheriffs of London. They builded there little cells, wherein they inhabited, but shortly after, the devotion of the citizens towards them, and the number of the Friars so increased, that they were by the citizens removed to a place in S. Nicholas Shambleses: which john Ewin Mearcer, appropriated unto the communalty, to the use of these said Friars, and himself became a lay-brother amongst them. About the year 1225. William joiner builded their Choir, Henry Walls the body of the church: Walter Poter Alderman the Chapter house: Gregory Rokesly, their Dorter: Bartholomewe of the castle made the refectory: Peter de Heliland made the infirmitorie: Bevis Bond king of Heralds, made the Study, etc. Margaret Queen, second wife to Edward the 1. began the Choir of their new church, New Church of the grey Friars. in the year 1306. to the building whereof, in her life time, she gave 2000 Marks, and one hundred mark by her Testament. john Britain Earl of Richmond, builded the body of the church, to the charges of three hundred pound, and gave many rich jewels and Ornaments to be used in the same. Marry Countess of Pembroke, seventy pound. Gilbert de Clare, Earl of Gloster, bestowed 20. great beams out of his Forest of Tumbridge, & 20. pound Starlings: Lady Helianor le Spencer, Lady Elizabeth de Brugh, sister to Gilbert de Clare, gave sums of money: and so did divers citizens: as Arnald de Tolinea, one hundred pound. Robert Baron Lisle, who became a Friar there, three hundred pound. Bartholomew de Almain fifty pound. Also Philippe Queen, wife to Edward the third, gave 70. pound. And so the work was done within the space of 21. years 1327. This church thus rich furnished with windows made at the charges of divers persons, the Lady Margaret Segraue, Countess of Norfolk, bore the charges of making the stalls in the choir, to the value of 350. marks, about the year 1380. Richard Whittington founded the Library, Liberarie of the grey ●ryers. in the year 1429. which was in length, one hundred twenty and nine foot: and in breadth, one and twenty foot: all séeled with wainscot, having twenty eight desks, and eight double settles of wainscot. Which in the year next following, was altogether finished in building, and within three years after, furnished with books, to the charges of five hundred fifty six pound, ten shillings, whereof Richard Whittington bore four hundred pound, the rest was boorne by Doctor Thomas Winchelsey, a Friar there: and for the writing out of D. Nicholas de lira his works in two volumes, to be chained there, 100 Marks, etc. The seeling of the Choir at divers men's charges, two hundred marks, and the painting at fifty marks. This whole Church containeth in length Length and breadth of Grey friars Church. three hundred foot, of the feet of S. Paul: in breadth, eighty nine foot, and in height from the ground to the Roof, 64. foot, and two inches, etc. It was consecrated 1325. and at the general suppression, was valued at thirty two pound, nineteen shillings, surrendered the twelfth of November, 1538. the 30. of Henry the eight, the ornaments and goods being taken to the King's use: the Church was shut up for a time, and used as a Store house of goods, taken as prizes from the French: But in the year 1546. on the third of januarie, was again set open. On the which day, preached at Paul's Cross the Bishop of Rochester, where he declared the King's gift thereof, to the City, for the relieving of the poor. Which gift was by patent of Saint Bartholomewes' Spittle in Smithfield, lately valued at three hundred five pound six shillings seven pence, and surrendered to the King: of the said Church of the Grey Friars, and of two parish Churches, Grace Freyers Church made a Parish Church. the one of Saint Nicholas in the Shambels, and the other of S. Ewines in Newgate market, which were to be made one Parish Church in the said friars Church, and in lands he gave for maintenance of the said Church, with divine service, reparations, etc. 500 marks by year● for ever. The thirteenth of januarie, the 38. of Henry the eight, an agreement was made betwixt the King and the Mayor, and commonalty of London: dated the 27. of December: by which the said gift of the Grey friars Church, with all the Edifices, and ground, the fratry, the Library, the Dortar, and Chapterhouse, the great Cloystrie and the lesser: tenements, gardens, and vacant grounds, Led, Stone, Iron, etc. The Hospital of S. Bartholomewe in west Smithfield, the church of the same, the lead, bells, and ornaments of the same Hospital, with all the Messages, Tenements, and appurtenances. The Parishes of Saint Nicholas, and of S. Ewin, and so much of Saint Pulchers as is within the gate, called Newgate, were made one Parish church in the Grey friars church, and called Christ's church: founded by Henry the 8. The Uickar of Christ's church was to have 26. pound, 13. s. 4. d. the year. The vicar of S. Bartholomew 13. li. 6. s. 8. d. The Uisitar of Newgate (being a Priest) ten pound. And other 5. Priests in Christ's church, all to be helping in the divine service, ministering the Sacraments, and Sacramentals, the five Priests to have 8. li. the piece. 2. Clarks, 6. pound each. A Sexton 4. li. Moreover, he gave them the Hospital of Bethelem: with the laver of Brass, by estimation, 18. foot in length, and 2. foot and a half in depth, and the water course of lead to the said Friar house belonging, containing by estimation in length, 18. Acres. In the year 1552. began the preparing of the Grey friars house, for the poor fatherless children. And in the month of November, the children were taken into the same, to the number of almost four hundredth. On Christmas day in the afternoon, while the Lord Maior and Alderman road to Paul's, the children of Christ's Hospital Christr Hospital. stood, from S. Laurence Lane end in Cheap, towards Paul's, all in one livery of Russet cotton, 340. in number. And at Easter next, they were in blue, and so have continued ever since. The defaced Monuments in this church Monuments in Christ's Church. were these. First in the Choir of the Lady Margaret, daughter to Philip king of France, and wife to Edward the first, foundress of this new church, 1317. Of Isabel daughter to Edward the 3. wedded to the Lord Couse of France, Alianor, wife to john Duke of Britain, Beatrix Duchess of Britain, daughter to Henry the 3. And Elinor Duchess of Buckingham, 1530. Sir Robert Lyle Baron. The Lady lisle and Margaret de Rivars, Countess of Devon, all under one stone. john Hastings Earl of Pembroke, 1389, Margaret daughter to Tho. Brotherton Earl Martial, she was Duchess of Norfolk, and Countess Martial, and Lady Segraue, 1389, Peter Bishop of Carbon in Hungary, 1331. Gregory Rocksley Maior. Sir john Deverux Knight, 1385. john Denham Baron, sometime Treasurer of England, knight of the Garter, 1501. William Fitz Warren Baron, and Isabella his wife, sometime Queen of Man. Robert Chalons knight, 1439. john Chalons, Isabella Queen wife to Edward the second, daughter to Philippe King of France, 1358. Isabella daughter to Edward the third, Countess of Bedford, and Lady Cousie, johan of the Tower Qéene of Scots, daughter to E. the 2. john duke of Bourbon, and Augue, Earl of Claremond, Mounpauncer, and Baron Beaugen, who was taken prisoner at Agincourt, kept prisoner 18. years, and deceased 1433. Elizabeth Nevell wife to john, son and heir to Ralph Earl of Westmoreland, and mother to Ralph Earl of Westmoreland, and daughter to Richard Earl of Kent, 1423. Edward Burnell son to the Lord Burnell. In All-hallows chapel. james Fines Lord Say. 1450. and Helenor his wife 1452. john Smith Bishop of Landafe, 1478. john, Baron Hilton: john Baron Clinton. Richard Hastings Knight, Lord of Willoughby, and Wells, Tho. Burdet Esquire beheaded, 1477. Robert Lile son & heir to the L. Lisle. In our Lady chapel, Io. Guysors of Lo. knight. Humphrey Stafford Esquire of Woorstershire 1486. Rob. Bartram Baron of Bothell. Ralph Barons knight. Wi. Apleton knight. Reynold de Cambrey knight. T. Bewmond, son & heir to H. lord Bewmond● john Butler Knight. Adam de Howton knight, 1417. Bartholomew Caster knight of Lon. Rein●ride Arundle kntght, 1468. T. Covil Esquire 1422. In the Postles chapel, Walter Blunt knight of the Garter, and L. Mountioy, Treasurer of England 1474. Edward Blunt L. Mountioye 1475. Alice Blunt Mountioye, sometime wife to William Browne Mayor of London, and daughter to Henry Kebell, Mayor 1521. Anne Blunt daughter to john Blunt knight, Lord Mountioy, 1480. Sir Allen Cheinie knight, and sir Tho. Green knight. William Blunt Esquire, son and heir to Walter Blunt, and father to Ed. Lord Mountioy. james Blunt Knight, son to Walter Blunt Captain of Gwynes 1492. Flizabeth Blunt wife to Robert Curson knight, 1494. Bartholomew Burwashe, and john Burwashe his son, john Blunt Lord Mountioy captain of Gwins & Hams 1485. Alan Buxhall of London, john Blunt knight 1531. john Philpot knight Mayor, and the Lady jane Sampford his wife 1384. Margaret daughter to sir john Philpot, first married to T. Sentler Esquire, & after to john Neyland Esquire. Nicholas Biember knight Maior, roll. Blunt Esquire, 1509. Ro. Bradbury 1489. Nicholas Clifton knight. Frances Chape, 2. sons of Allayne Lord Cheinery, and john son and heir to the same Lord Allayne Cheinie knight. john Robpart knight of the Garter 1450. Alleine Cheiney knight, Thomas Malorye Knight, 1470. Thomas Young a justice of the Bench, 1476. john Baldwin fellow of Gray's Inn, and common Sergeant of London, 1469. Walter Wrotsley knight of Warwickshire, 1473. Stephen jenins Marchantaylor, Mayor 1523. Thomas a Par, and john Wiltwater, slain at Barnet, 1471. Robert Elkenton knight 1460. Richard Hauering knight 1388. Robert Trisilian knight, justice, 1308. Geoffrye Lucy, son to Geoffrey Lucy, john Water Alias York Herald 1520. john More (Alias Nory) Herald 1491. George Hopton Knight, 1489. Between the choir and the Altar, Rape Spiganell knight, john moil gentleman of Grey's Inn, 1495. William Huddie knight 1501. Io. Cobham a baron of Kent, john Mortayn knight john Deyncort knight, john Norbery Esquire, high Treasurer of England, Henry Norbere his son Esquire, john Southlee knight, Thomas Sakuile, Thomas Lucy knight 1525. Robert de la Rivar, son to Mauricius de la Rivar, Lord of Tormerton, 1457 john Malmaynas' Esquire, and Thomas Malmayns knights, Nicholas Malmains Hugh Parsal knight, 1490. Alexandria Kirketon knight, etc. In the body of the Church, William Paulet Esquire of Summersetshire 1482. john moil gentleman 1530. Peter Champion Esquire 1511. john Harte Gentleman 1449. Alice La. Hungarford, hanged at Tyburn, for murdering her husband, 1523. Edward Hall Gentleman of Gray's Inn, 1470. Ri. Churchyard Gentleman fellow of Gray's Inn, 1498. john Mortimar knight beheaded 1423. Henry Frowike Alderman, Renauld Frowike, Philip Pats, 1518. William Porter Sergeant at arms 1515. Thomas Grantham Gentleman 1511. Edmond Rotheley Gentleman 1470. Henry Reston Gentleman of Gray's Inn, 1485. I. Aubrye son to I. Aubrye, Mayor of Norwich, 1368. Nicholas Mongomery Gentleman, son to Io. Mongomery of Northamptonshire 1485. Sir Bartho. Emfield knight: Sir Barnard, S. Peter knight, Sir Ralph Sandwiche knight, Custos of London. Sir Andrew Sakavile knight. All these and five times so many more have been buried there, whose Monuments are wholly defaced: for there were 9 Tombs of Alabaster and Marble, environed with strikes of Iron in the Choir, and one Tomb in the body of the church also coped with iron, all pulled down, besides 7. score grave stones of Marble, all sold for 50. pound or thereabouts, by Sir Martin Bowes. Of late time buried there, Walter Hadden Doctor, etc. From this church West to Newgate, is of this Ward. Now for the Southside of this Ward, beginning again at the cross in Cheap, from thence to Friday street, Parish church of S. Matthew in Friday street. and down that street on the West side, till over against the Northwest corner of S. Matthewes church. And on the West side, to the South corner of the said church, which is wholly in the Ward of Faringdon, a proper church, and hath these few Monuments of Sir Nicholas Twiford Goldsmith, Maior: who gave to that church an house, with the appurtenances, called the Griffon on the Hope, in the same street. Thomas Pole Goldsmith, 1395. Robert johnson Goldsmith, Alderman. Robert Harding Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs, 1478. john Twiselton Goldsmith, Alderman, 1525. Ralph Allen Grocer, one of the Sheriffs deceased, 1546. Anthony Gamage iron-monger, one of the Sheriffs, deceased, 1579. Cage, john Mabbe Chamberlain of London, etc. From this Friday street, West to the Old Exchange, Old Exchange. a street so called of the King's Exchange there kept, which was for the receipt of Bullion, to be quoyned. For Henry the 3. in the 6. year of his reign, wrote to the Scabines and men of Ipre, that he and his council had given prohibition, that none, englishmen or other, should make change of plate or other Mass of silver, but only in this Exchange at London, or at Canterbury. Andrew Bukerell then had to Farm the Exchange of England, and was Mayor of London in the reign of Henry the third. john Somercote had the keeping of the King's Exchange over all England. In the eight of Edward the first, Gregory Rockesly was keeper of the said Exchange for the King. In the fift of Edward the second, William Hausted was keeper thereof. And in the 18. Roger de Frowicke, etc. These received the old stamp, or coining irons, from time to time, as the same were worn, and delivered new to all the Mints in England, as more at large in another place I have noted. This street beginneth by West Cheap in the North, and runneth down South so Knightriders street: that part thereof which is called Olde-Fish street, but the very housing and Office of the Exchange and Coinage, was about the midst thereof, South from the East Gate that entereth P●wles Church yard, and on the West side in Baynard's Castle Warde. On the East side of this Lane, betwixt West cheap, and the church of S. Augustine, Henry Walls Mayor (by licence of Ed. the first) builded one Row of houses, the profits rising of them to be employed on London Bridge. The parish church of S. Augustine, Parish church of S. Augustine. and one house next adjoining in Watheling street, is of this Ward called Faringdon. This is a fair church, and lately well repaired, wherein be Monuments remaining of Henry Read Armourer, one of the Sheriffs 1450. Robert Bellesdon Haberdasher, Mayor, 1491. Sir Townley, William Dear one of the Sheriffs, 1450. Robert Ra●en Haberdasher, 1500. Thomas Apleyard Gentleman, 1515. William Moncaster Merchant Taylor, 1524. Willi. Holte Merchant Taylor, 1544. etc. Than is the North church yard of Paul's, in the which standeth the Cathedral church of S. Paul. Cathedral Curch of S. Paul. This church was first founded by Ethelbart King of Kent, about the year of Christ, 610. he gave thereto lands, as appeareth. Aedelbertus Rex deo inspirant, pro animae sua remedio dedit episcopo melito terram qua appellatur Tillingeham ad monaster: sui solatium soilioz, S. Pauli: Et ego Rex Aethelbertus ita firmiter concedo tibi presulimelito potestatem eius habendi & possidendi ut in perpetuum in monastary utilitate permanet, etc. Athelstan, Edgare, Edward the Confessor, and others also gave lands thereunto. William Conqueror gave to the Church of S. Paul, and to Mauricius then Bishop, and his successors, the Castle of Sto●tford, with the appurtenances, etc. He also confirmed the gifts of his predecessors, in these words: Omne I Rex Angl. Clamo quietas in perpetuum, 24. Hidas quas Rex Aetholbert dedit S. Paulo juxta murum London, etc. The Charter of King William the Conqueror, given to the church of S. Paul in London, exemplified in the Tower: the latin thereof Englished thus. William by the grace of God, King of Englishmen, To all his well-beloved French and English people, greeting. Know ye that I do give unto God and the Church of S. Paul of London, and to the Rectors and Servitors of the same, in all their lands which the Church hath, or shall have, within borough and without, sack and sock, Thole and The, Infangthefe, and Grithbriche, and all f●eeshippes by sea and by land, on tide, and off tide, and all the rights that into them. Christendom by rad● and more speak and on buright hamed, and on buright work, afore all the Bishoprics in mine land: and on each other man's land. For I will that the Church in all things be as free as I would my soul to be in the day of judgement, witnesss Ofmound our Chancellor, Lamfranke the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Thomas Archbishop of York, Roger Earl of Salesbury, and Alane the County, and Geffrey de Magna villa, and Ralph Peuerell. In the year 1087. this church of S. Paul Saint Paul's church brent. was brent with fire, and therewith the more part of the citie● which fire began at the entry of the West gate, and consumed to the East gate. Mauricius then Bishop, began therefore the foundation of a new church of S. Paul, Foundation of the new Church of S. Paul builded, stone brought from Cane in Normandy. a work that men of that time judged would never have been finished, it was to them so wonderful for length & breadth, & also the same was builded upon Arches (or Ua●ltes) of stone, for defence of fire, which was a manner of work before that time unknown to the people of this Nation, and then brought in by the French: and the stone was fetched from Cane in Normandy. This Mauricius deceased in the year 1107. Richard Beamor succeeded him in the Bishopric, who did wonderfully increase the said church, purchasing of his own cost, the large streets and Lanes about it, wherein were wont to dwell many lay people, which ground he began to compass about, with a strong wall of stone and gates. King Henry the first gave to the said Richard, so much of the moat (or Wall) of the castle, on the Thames side to the South, as should be needful to make the said wall of the church, and so much as should suffice to make a wall without the way on the North side, etc. It should seem that this Richard enclosed but two sides of the said church or Semitorie of Saint Paul, to wit, the South and North sides: for King Edward the second, in the tenth of his reign, granted that the said church yard should be enclosed with a wall where it wanted, for the murders and robberies that were there committed. But the citizens than claimed the East part of the church yard to be the place of assembly to their folkemotes, and that the great steeple there situate was to that use, their common bell, The comm●● bell in Paul: church yard rung, for the calling together of the Citizens to their folkemotes. which being there rung, all the inhabitants of the city might hear and come together. They also claimed the West side, that they might there assemble themselves together, with the Lord of Baynard's castle, for view of their Armour in defence of the city. This matter was in the Tower of London referred to Haruius de Stanton, and his fellow justices Itenerantes: but I find not the decision or judgement of that controversy. True it is, that Edward the third, in the seventeen of his reign, gave commandment for the finishing of that wall, which was then performed, and to this day it continueth. Although now on both the sides (to wit, within and without) it be hidden with dwelling houses. Richard Beamer deceased in the year 1127. and his successors in process of time, performed the work begun. The steeple of this church was builded and finished in the year 1222. The cross on the said steeple fell down, and a new was set up in the year 1314. The new work of Paul's Paul's steeple. (so called) at the East end above the Choir, was begun in the year 1251. Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln, Constable of Chester, and Custos of England, in his time was a great benefactor to this work, and was there buried, in the year 1310. Also Ralph Baldock Bishop of London, in his life time gave two hundredth marks to the building of the said new work: The new work of Paul's. and left much by his Testament, towards the finishing thereof, he deceased in the year 1313 and was buried in the Lady chapel. The first of February, in the year 1444. about two of the clock in the afternoon, this steeple was fired by lightning, Paul's steeple fired by lightning. in the midst of the shaft or spéere, both on the West side, & on the South, but by labour of many well disposed people, the same was to appearance quenched with vinegar, so that all men withdrew themselves to their● houses praising God: but between eight and nine of the clock in the same night, the fire braced out again, more fervently than before, and did much hurt to the Lead and Timber, till by the great labour of the Mayor and people that came thither, it was thoroughly quenched. This steeple was repaired Paul's steeple repaired. in the year 1462. and the Wether Cock again erected: but one Robert Godwin winding it up, the rope broke, and he was destroyed on the Pinnacles, and the cock Another cock of Paul's steeple. was sore bruised. But Burchwood (the King's Plomer) set it up again: since the which time, needing reparation, it was both taken down & set up, in the year 1553. it then weighed 40. pound. At which time it was found to be of copper gilded over, and the length from the bill to the tail, being 4. foot, and the breadth over the wings, 3. foot & a half: the cross from the bowl, to the Eagle (or Cock) was fift●ene foot, and six inches of a size: the length thereof overthwart, was five foot and ten inches: and the compass of the bowl was nine foot and one inch. The inner body of this Cross, was Oak, the next cover was Lead, and the uttermost was of Copper, read varnished. The boale and Eagle, or Cock, were of Copper and gilt also. The height of the steeple was 520. foot, Height of the steeple. whereof the stone work, is 260. foot, and the spire was likewise 260. foot: the length of the whole church, Length of Paul's Church. is two hundred and forty tailors yards, which make 720. foot: the breadth thereof, is 130. foot: and the height of the body of that church, is 150. foot. Governors of this Church. This church hath a Bishop, a Dean, a Precentor, Chancellor, Treasurer, and five Archdeacon's: to wit, of London, Middlesex, Essex, Colchester and S. Albon: it hath Prebendaries thirty, Cannons twelve, Uickars Chorall six, etc. The College of Petty Cannons there, Petty Cannons of Paul's. was founded by king Richard the second, in honour of Queen Anne his wife, and of her progenitors, in the 17. of his reign. Their Hall and lands was then given unto them, as appeareth by the Patent, Master Robert Dokesworth then being master thereof. There was also one great Cloister on the North side of this church, Great Cloystry of Paul's. environing a plot of ground, of old time called Pardom church yard, whereof Thomas More (Dean of Paul's) was either the first builder, or a most especial benefactor, and was buried there. Dance of Paul's. About this Cloister, was artificially & richly painted, the dance of Machabray, or dance of death, commonly called the dance of Paul's: the like whereof, was painted about S. Innocents' cloister, at Paris in France: the metres or poesy of this dance, were translated out of French into English, by john Lidgate, the Monk of Bery, & with the picture of Death, leading all estates painted about the Cloister: at the special request and dispense of jankin Carpenter, in the Reign of Henry the 6. In this Cloister were buried many persons, some of worship, and others of honour: the monuments of whom, in number and curious workmanship, passed all other that were in that church. Over the East Quadrant of this Cloister, was a fair Library, Library of Paul's. builded at the costs and charges of Walter Sherington, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, in the reign of Henry the 6. which hath been well furnished with fair written books in Uellum: but few of them now do remain there. In the midst of this pardon church yard, was also a fair Chapel, chapel in Pardon churchyard. first founded by Gilbert Becker, Portgrave and principal magistrate of this city, in the reign of king Stephen, who was there buried. Thomas Moor Deane of Paul's before named, re-edified this Chapel, and founded three Chaplains there, in the reign of Henry the 5. In the year 1549. on the tenth of April, the said Chapel by commandment of the Duke of Summerset, was begun to be pulled down, with the whole Cloystrie, the dance of Death, the Tombs, and monuments: so that nothing thereof was left, but the bore plot of ground, which is since converted into a garden, for the Petty Canons. There was also a Chapel at the North door of Paul's, Chapel at the North door of Paul's. founded by the same Walter Sherington, by licence of Henry the sixth, for two, three, or four Chaplains, endowed with forty pound by the year. This Chapel also was pulled down in the reign of Edward the sixth, and in place thereof, a fair house builded. There was furthermore, a fair Chapel of the holy Ghost in Paul's church, on the North side: founded in the year, 1400. by Roger Holmes, Chancellor and Prebendary of Paul's, for Adam Bery Alderman, john Wingham and others, for seven Chaplains, and called Holmes College. Holmes College. Their common Hall was in Paul's church yard on the South side. This College also was with others suppressed in the reign of Edward the sixth. Than under the Choir of Paul's is alarge chapel, first dedicated to the name of jesus, founded the 37. of Henry the sixth, as appeareth by his patent thereof, dated at Crodowne to this effect. Many liege men, and Christian people having begun a fraternity, and gild, to the honour of the most glorious name of jesus Christ our Saviour, in a place called the crowds of the Cathedral church of Paul's in London, which hath continued long time peaceably, till now of late: whereupon they have made request, and we have taken upon us the name and charge of the foundation, to the la●de of Almighty God, the Father, the Son and the holy Ghost, and especially to the honour of jesus, in whose honour, the fraternity was begun, etc. The King ordained William Say then Deane of Paul's to be the Rector, and Richard Ford, (a remembrancer in the Exchequer) and Henry Bennis (clerk of his privy Seal) the Guardians of these brothers and sisters: they and their successors to have a common seal: licence to purchase lands or tenements to the value of 40 pound by the year, etc. This foundation was confirmed by Henry the seventh, the two and twenty of his reign, to Doctor Collet, than Deane of Paul's, Rector there, etc. And by Henry the eight, the seven and twentieth of his reign, to Richard Pace, than Deane of Paul's, etc. At the West end of this jesus chapel, under the Choir of Paul's, also was a Parish church of Saint Faith, Parish Chrch of Saint Faith. commonly called Saint Faith under Paul's, which served for the Stacioners and others, dwelling in Paul's church yard, Pater Noster row, and the places near adjoining. The said chapel of jesus being suppressed in the reign of Edward the sixth: the Parishioners of Saint Faiths church were removed into the same jesus chapel, as to a place more sufficient for largeness and lightsomeness, than their former church was, and so it still remaineth to that use. Than was there on the North side of this church yard, a Charnel house Charnel house with a Chapel. for the bones of the dead, and over it a chapel of an old foundation, such as followeth. In the year one thousand two hundred eighty two, the tenth of Edward the first, it was agreed, that Henry Walls Mayor, and the citizens, for cause of shops by them builded, without the wall of the church yard, should assign to God, and to the church of Saint Paul, ten marks of rent by the year for ever, towards the new building of a chapel of the blessed Virgin Mary, and also to assign five marks of yearly rent to a Chaplain to celebrated there. Moreover in the year 1430. the eight of Henry the sixth, licence was granted to jankin Carpenter, (executor to Richard Whittington) to establish upon the said Charnel, a Chaplain, to have eight marks by the year: Than was also in this chapel, two brotherhoods. In this chapel were buried Robert Barton, and Henry Barton Maior, and Thomas Mirfin Maior, all Skinners, and were entombed with their Images of Alabaster over them, grated about with Iron: all which, was pulled down in the year one thousand five hundred forty nine, the bones of the dead, couched up in a Charnill (by report of him who paid for the carriage) were conveyed from thence into Finsbery field, amounting to more than one thousand cart loads, and there laid on a moorish ground, Reign-Wolfe. in short space after raised (by soylage of the city) to hear three windmills. The chapel and Charnill were converted into dwelling houses, aware houses, and sheds for Stacioners, builded before it, in place of the Tombs. In the East part of this church yard, standeth Paul's school, Paul's school. lately builded and endowed in the year 1512. by john Collet Doctor of Divinity, and Deane of Paul's, for 153. poor men's children, to be taught free in the same school, for which he appointed a Master, a Surmaister, or Usher, and a Chaplain, with large stipends for ever, committing the case and oversight thereof, to the Master, Wardens, and Assistants of the Mearcers in London, because he was borne in London, and was son to Henry Collet, Mearcer, sometime Mayor. He left to these Mearcers, lands, to the yearly value of one hundred and twenty pound or better. Near unto this school on the North side thereof, was of old time a great and high Clochier Clochiard in Paul's church yard. (or Belhouse) four square, builded of Stone, and in the same a most strong frame of Timber, with four Bells, the greatest that I have heard off: these were called jesus Bells, and belonged to jesus chapel, but I know not by whose gift: the same had a great spear of timber, covered with Lead, with the image of Saint Paul on the top, but was pulled down by sir Miles Partredge knight, in the reign of Henry the eight. The common speech than was, that he did set an hundred pound upon a cast at dices against it, and so won the said Clocheard and bells of the King: and then causing the bells to be broken as they hung, the rest was pulled down and broken also. This man was afterward executed on the Tower hill, for matters concerning the Duke of Summerset, in the year 1551. the fift of Edward the sixth. In place of this Clochearde, of old times, the common Bell of the city Common bell of the City. was used to be rung for the assembly of the citizens, to their Folk motes as I have before showed. About the midst of this church yard, is a Pulpit Cross Pulpit Cross in Paul's Church yard. of timber, mounted upon steps of stone, and covered with Lead. In which, are sermons preached by learned Divines every Sunday in the forenoon. The very antiquity whereof, is to me unknown: but I read, that in the year 1259. King Henry the third, commanded a general assembly to be made at this Cross, where he in proper person commanded the Mayor, that on the next day following, he should 'cause to be sworn before the Aldermen, every stripling of twelve years of age, or upward, to be true to the King and his heirs, Kings of England. Also in the year 1262. the same King caused to be read at Paul's Cross, a Bull obtained from Pope Vrban the fourth, as an absolution for him, and for all that were sworn to maintain the Articles made in Parliament at Oxford. Also in the year 1299. the Dean of Paul's, accursed at Paul's Cross, all those which had searched in the church of Saint Martin in the field, for an h●●rd of Gold, etc. Thomas Kemp Bishop of London, new builded this Pulpit and Cross, in form as it now standeth. In the year 1561. the fourth of june, betwixt the hour of three and four of the Clock in afternoon, the great spear of the steeple of Saint Paul's church, Paul's steeple and Church brent. was fired by lightning, which broke fourth (as it seemed) two or three yards beneath the foot of the Cross, and from thence it brent downward the spear to the battlements, stone work and bells, so furiously, that within the space of four hours, the same steeple with all the Roofs of the church, were consumed, to the great sorrow and perpetual remembrance of all the beholders. After this mischance, the queens Majesty directed her letters to the Mayor, willing him to take order for speedy repairing of the same. Speedy repairing of Paul's Church. And she of her Gracious disposition, for the furtherance thereof, did presently, give and deliver in gold 1000 marks, with a warrant for 1000 l●ades of timber, to be taken out of her woods, or elsewhere. The citizens also gave first a great benenolence, Benevolence. and after that three fifteens to be speedily paid. The Queen's gift. The Clergy of England, likewise within the Province of Canterbury, granted the fourth part of the value of their benefices, charged with first fruits, the thirtieth part of such as were not so charged, but the Clergy of London Diocese, granted the thirtieth part of all that paid first fruits, and the twentieth part of such as had paid their fruits. Six citizens of London, and two Petty Canons of Paul's church, had charge to further and oversee the work, wherein such expedition was used, that within one month next following the burning thereof, the church was covered with boards and lead, in manner of a false Roof against the weather, and before the end of the said year, all the said Isles of the church were framed out of new timber, covered with lead, and fully finished. The same year also, the great Roofs of the West and East ends were framed out of great timber in Yorkshire, brought thence to London by sea, and set up, and covered with lead. But concerning the steeple, little was done, through whose default God knoweth: it was said, that the money appointed for new building of the steeple, was collected, and brought to the hands of Edmond Grindall then Bishop of London. The monuments in this church Monuments in Paul's church. be these. First as I read, of Erkenwalde Bishop of London, buried in the old church, about the year of Christ, seven hundred, whose body was translated into the new work, in the year one thousand one hundred & forty, being richly shrined, above the Choir behind the high Altar. Sebba or Seba King of the East Saxons, first buried in the old Church, and after that, removed into the new, and laid in a coffin of stone, on the North side, without the Quire. Etheldred King of the West Saxons, was likewise buried and removed. William Norman Bishop of London, in the reigns of Edward the Confessor, and of William the Conqueror, deceased, one thousand and seventy, and is now buried in the West I'll, with an Epitaph, as in another place I have showed. Eustauchius de Fanconbridge Bishop of London 1228. buried in the South I'll, above the Quire. Roger Nigar Bishop of London 1241. buried on the North side the Quire. Fulco Basset Bishop of London 1259. Henry Wingham B. 1262. Henry Lacye, Earl of Lincoln, in the new work of Paul's, betwixt our Lady chapel, and S. Dunston's chapel, where a fair monument was raised for him, with his picture in armour, cross legged, as one professed for defence of the holy land, against the infidels. His monument is foully defaced. The cause of monuments of the dead cross-legged. Ralph Baldoke B. of London 1313. in our Lady chapel, whereof he was founder. Some have noted, that in digging the foundation of this new work of Paul's, there were found more than an hundred scalps of Oxen, Scalps of oxen found in digging of a foundation. or Kine, which thing (say they) confirmeth greatly the opinion of those which have reported, that of old time there had been a Temple of jupiter, and that there was daily sacrifice of beasts. Othersome, both wise and learned, have thought the Bucks head, boorne before the procession of Paul's, on Saint Paul's day, to signify the like. But true it is, that I have read an ancient deed to this effect. Sir William Bawd knight, the third of Edward the first, A Bucks head borne before the procession at Powls. in the year 1274. on Candlemas day, grautned to Haruy de Borham, Deane of Paul's, and to the chapter there, that in consideration of twenty two Acres of ground or land, by them granted within their manor of Westley in Essex, to be enclosed into his park of Curingham, he would for ever upon the feast day of the conversion of Saint Paul in winter, give unto them a good do, seasonable and sweet, and upon the feast of the commemoration of Saint Paul in summer, a good Buck, and offer the same at the high Altar, the same to be spent amongst the Canon's residents: the Do to be brought by one man at the hour of Procession, and through the Procession to the high Altar: and the bringer to have nothing: the Buck to be brought by all his many in like manner, and they to have paid unto them by the Chamberlain of the church, 12. pence only, and no more to be required. This grant he made, and for performance, bound the lands of him and his heirs to be distrained on: and if the lands should be evicted, that yet he and his heirs should accomplish the gift. Witnesses Richard Tilbery, William de Vockendon, Richard de Harlowe, Knights, Peter of Stanforde, Thomas of Waldon, and some others. Sir Walter Bawd Knight, so●ne to William, confirmed this gift, in the thirtieth of the said King, and the witnesses thereunto, were Nicholas de Wokendon, Richard de Rokeley, Thomas de Mandevile, john de Rocheford, Knights, Richard de Broniforde; William de Marks, William de Fulham, and other. Thus much for the grant. Now what I have heard by report, and have partly seen, it followeth. On the feast day of the Commemoration of Saint Paul, the buck being brought up to the steps of the high Altar in Paul's church, at the hour of Procession, the Dean and chapter being appareled in Copes and Uestments, with garlands of Roses on their heads, they sent the body of the Buck to baking, and had the head fixed on a paul, boorne before the Cross in in their procession, until they issued out of the West door, where the keeper that brought it, blowed the death of the Buck, and then the Horners that were about the City, presently answered him in like manner: for the which pains, they had each one, of the Dean and Chapter, four pence in money, and their dinner: and the keeper that brought it, was allowed during his abode there, for that service, meat, drink and lodging, at the Dean and Chapters charges, and five shillings in money at his going away, together with a loaf of bread, having the picture of Saint Paul upon it, etc. There was belonging to the church of Saint Paul for both the days, two special suits of Uestments, the one embroidered with Bucks, the other with Does, both given by the said Bands (as I have heard.) Thus much for the matter. Now to the residue of the monuments, Henry Gylford, L. Martial, was buried in the Postles chapel 1313. Richard Newport Bishop 1318. Sir john Bewcamp, Constable of Dover, Wardon of the Ports, Knight of the Garter: son to Gwye Bewcampe, Earl of Warwick, and brother to Thomas, Earl of Warwick, in the body of the church on the South side 1358. where a fair monument remaineth of him: he is by ignorant people misnamed, to be Humphrey Duke of Gloster, who lieth honourably buried at Saint Albon, twenty miles from London: and therefore such as merrily profess themselves to serve Duke Humphrey in Paul's, are to be punished here, and sent to Saint Albon, there to be punished again, for their absence from their Master, as they call him. Sir Ralph de Hingham, chief justice of both Benches, successively buried in the side of the North walk, against the Choir, 1308. Sir john Putteney Draper Mayor, 1348. in a fair chapel by him builded, on the North side of Paul's, wherein he founded 3. chaplains. Richard de Plesseys in the North walk before Saint George's chapel, 1361. Sir Simon Burley, Constable of Dover, and Chamberlain to Richard the second, knight of the Garter beheaded, lieth buried in the North walk against the Quire. Adam de Bery Mayor, in the year 1364. buried in a Chapel of Saint Mary Magdalen: or of the holy Ghost, called Holmes College. Roger Holmes Chancellor and Prebend of Paul's, was buried there 1400. john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster 1399. buried on the North side the Choir, by Blanch his first wife, who deceased in the year 1368. The Duchess of Bedforde, sister to Philip Duke of Burgonie, one thousand four hundred thirty three. Robert Fitz Hew, Bishop of London, in the choir, one thousand four hundred thirty five. Thomas Kempe Bishop of London, in a proper chapel of the Trinity, by him founded in the body of the Church on the North side, 1489. john Collet Deane of Paul's on the South side without the choir, 1519. Richard Fitz james, Bishop of London lieth hard beneath the Northwest Pillar of Paul's steeple, under a fair tomb, and a chapel of timber with stairs, mounting thereunto over his tombe,1521. his chapel was burned by fire, falling from the steeple. john Stokesly Bishop of London in our Lady chapel 1539. john Nevel, Lord Latimere, in a chapel by the North door of Paul's, about the year, 1542. Sir john Mason knight, in the North walk against the choir, 1566. William Herbert Earl of Pembroke, knight of the Garter, on the North side the choir, 1569. Sir Nicholas Bacon, Lord keeper of the great Seal, on the South side of the Choir, 1578. Sir Philip Sidney above the Choir, on the North side the Choir, 1586. Sir Francis Walsingham knight, principal Secretary, and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster 1590. Sir Christopher Hatton Lord Chancellor of England, knight of the Garter, above the Choir, 1591. under a most sumptuous monument, whereof a merry Poet writ thus. Philip and Francis have no Tomb, For great Christopher takes all the room. john Elmare Bishop of London, before S. George's chapel, 1594. The Lady Heneage, and her husband sir Thomas Heneage Chancellor of the Duchy, 1595. Richard Fletcher Bishop of London, 1596. These as the chief have I noted, and so an end for Paul's church. Without the North gate of Paul's church, from the end of the old Exchange, West up Pater Noster row, Pater Noster row. by the two lanes out of Paul's church, the first out of the cross I'll of Paul's, the other out of the body of the church, about the midst thereof, and so West to the golden Lion, be all of this Ward, as is aforesaid: The houses in this street, from the first North gate of Paul's churchyard, unto the next gate, was first builded without the wall of the churchyard, by Henry Walls Mayor, in the year 1282. The rents of those houses go to the maintenance of London bridge. This ●●reete is now called Pater Noster row, because of Stacioners or Text writers that dwelled there, who wrote and sold all sorts of books then in use, namely, A. B. C. Or Abstes with the Pater Noster, ave, Creed, Graces, etc. There dwelled also turners of Beads, and they were called Pater Noster makers: Pater Noster makers. as I read in a Record of one Robert Nikke Pater Noster maker, and Citizen, in the reign of Henry the fourth, and so of other. At the end of this Pater Noster row, is ave Mary Lane, ave Mary Lane. so called upon the like occasion of text writers, and bead makers, then dwelling there: and at the end of that Lane is likewise Creed Lane, Creed Lane. late so called (but sometime Spurrier row, of Spurriers dwelling there) and Amen Lane, Amen Lane. is added thereunto, betwixt the South end of Warwick Lane, and the North end of ave Mary Lane: at the North end of ave Mary lane, is one great house builded of stone and timber, of old time pertaining to john Duke of Britain, Duke of Britain's house, since Pembroke's Inn, now Burgaveny house. Earl of Richmond, as appeareth by the Records of Edw. the second: since that it is called Pembroke's Inn, near unto Ludgate, as belonging to the Earls of Pembroke in the times of Ric. the 2. the 18. year: and of Henry the sixth, in the 14. year. It is now called Burgaveny house, and belonged to Henry, late Lord of Burgaveny. Betwixt the South end of ave Mary Lane, and the North end of Creed Lane, is the coming out of Paul's church yard, on the East, and the high street on the West, towards Ludgate, and this is called Bowyer row, Bowyer row. of bowiers' dwelling there in old time, now worn out by Mearcers and others. In this street on the North side, is the Parish church of S. Martin, a proper church, and lately new builded: for in the year 1437. john Michael Maior and the commonalty, granted to William Down parson of S. Martin's at Ludgate, Parish church of S. Martin by Ludgate. a parcel of ground, containing in length 28. foot, and in breadth 24. foot, to set & build their steeple upon, etc. The Monuments here, be of Henry Belwase, and john Gest, 1458. William Taverner Gentleman 1466, john Barton Esquire, 1439. Stephen Peacock Mayor 1533. Sir Roger Cholemly, some say William Seven-oake Mayor, etc. On the South side of this street, is the turning into the Blackfriars, The Blackfriars. which order sometime had their house in Olde-Boorne, where they remained for the space of fifty five years, and then in the year 1276. Gregory Roksley Mayor, and the Barons of this city, Maior and Barons of this City. granted and gave to Robert Kilwarby Archbishop of Canterbury, two (Lanes or ways) next the street of Baynard's Castle, and also the Tower of Mountfichit, to be destroyed: in place of which, the said Robert builded the late new church of the Blackfriars, and placed them therein. King Edward the first and Elyanor his wife, were great benefactors thereunto. This was a large church, and richly furnished with Ornaments: wherein divers Parliaments and other great meetings hath been holden: namely in the year one thousand four hundred and fifty, the twenty eight of Henry the sixth, a Parliament was begun at Westminster, and adjourned to the Blackfriars in London. In the year, 1527. the Emperor Charles the fifth, was lodged there. In the year 1524. the fifteenth of April, a Parliament was begun at the Blackfriars, wherein was demanded a subsidy of 800000. pound to be raised of goods and lands, 4. shillings of every pound, and in the end● was granted 2. shillings of the pound, of goods or lands, that were worth 20. pound, or might dispend 20. pound by the year, and so upward, to be paid in 2. years. This Parliament was adjourned to Westminster, amongst the black Monks, & ended in the King's Palace there, the 14. of August, at 9 of the clock in the night, & was therefore called the black Parliament. Parliament at the Blackfriars called the black Parliament. In the year 1529. Cardinal Campenis the Legate with Cardinal Woolsey, sat at the said Black Friars, where before them as Legates and judges, was brought in question the King's marriage with Queen Kathren as to be unlawful, before whom thè King and Queen were cited and summoned to appear, etc. Whereof more at large in other places hath been touched. The same year in the month of October, begun a Parliament in the Blackfriars, in the which Cardinal Woolsey was condemned in the priminerie: this house valued at 104. li. 15. shillings 5. d. was surrendered the twelfth of November, the thirtieth of Henry the eight. There are interred, or buried in this Church, Margaret Queen of Scots: Hubert de Brugh Earl of Kent, translated from their old church, by Olde-Boorne: Robert de Attabeto Earl of Bellimon: Dame Izabel wife to Sir Roger Bygot, Earl Martial: William and jane Huse, children to Dame Elils, Countess of Arundel, and by them lieth Dame Ellis, daughter to the Earl Warren, and after Countess of Arundel. Dame I'd wife to sir Walter daughter to Ferrer of Chartley, Richard de Brews: Dame jahu, daughter to Thomas, wife to Sir Gnight. Richard Strange, son to Roger Strange, Elizabeth daughter to sir Bartholomewe Badlesmere, wife to sir William Bohanne Earl of Northampton. Marsh, the Earls of March, and Hereforde, and Elizabeth Countess of Arondell. Dame johan daughter to sir john C●rne, first wife to sir Gwide Bryan. Hugh Clare Knight. The heart of Queen Helianor the foundress: the heart of Alfence her son, the hearts of john and Margaret, children to Wil Valence, sir William Thorpe justice, the Lord Lyoth of Yreland: Maude wife to Geffrey Say, daughter to the Earl of Warwick, Dame Sible, daughter to William Pattehulle, wife to Roger Bewchampe, and by her Sir Richard or Roger Bewchampe, Lord S. Amand, & Dame Elizabeth his wife, daughter to the Duke of Lancaster: Sir Stephen Collington knight, Sir Wi. Peter knight. Sir Io. Tiptoste, Earl of Woorster beheaded 1470. William Paston, and Anne daughter to Edmond of Lancaster, the Lord Beaumont, Sir Edmond Cromwell, Baron of Burford, the Lady Nevel wedded to the lord Douglasse, daughter to the Duke of Excester, Ri. Scroop Esquire, Dame Katheren Vaux, alias Cobham, Sir Th. Browne, and dame Elizabeth his wife, jane powel, Thomas Swinforth, john Mawsley Esquire, 1432. john de la Bear, Nicholas Car Esquire, Geffrey Spring Esquire: William Clifford Esquire, Sir Thomas Brandon knight of the Garter, 1509. William Stalworth Merchantaylor, 1518. William Courtney Earl of Devonshire, nominated, but not created, the third of Henry the eight, etc. There is a Parish of Saint Anne within the Precinct of the Blackfriars, Parish church of S. Anne new builded in the Black Friars. which was pulled down with the friars church, by Sir Thomas Cardin, alias Carden: but in the reign of Queen Mary, he being forced to find a church to the inhabitants, allowed them a lodging chamber above a stair, which since that time, to wit, the year 1597. fell down, and was again by collections therefore made, new builded in the same year, and was dedicated on the eleventh of December. Now to turn again out of the Black Friars through Bowyer row, Ave-Mary lane and Pater Noster row, Corn market by Pater Noster row. to the church of Saint Michael ad Bladum, or at the corn, corruptly at the Querne, so called, because in place thereof, was sometime a corn market, stretching up West to the Shambleses: It seemeth that this church was first builded, about the reign of Edward the third, Thomas Newton first parson there, was buried in the Choir, the year 1361. which was the 35. of Edward the third. Parish church of S. Michael Admetus Bladu●●. At the East end of this church stood a cross, called the old cross, in West cheap, Old Cross in west cheap. which was taken down in the year, 1390. the 13. of Richard the second: since the which time, the said parish church was also taken down, but new builded and enlarged, in the year 1430 the eight of Henry the sixth. William Estefield Mayor, and the commonalty, granted of the common soil of the city, three feet and a half in breadth on the North part, and four foot in breadth toward the East, for the enlarging thereof. This is now a proper church, and hath the monuments of Thomas Newton first parson, Roger Woodcock Hatter, 1475. Thomas Ressell Brewer, 1473. john Hulton stationer 1475. john Oxney, Roger North Roger North. Merchant, Haberdasher, 1509. Henry Pranel Uintener, one of the Sheriffs 1585. William Elkin one of the Sheriffs, 1586. Thomas banks, 1598. etc. At the East end of this church, in place of the old cross, is now a water conduit placed. Water conduit by Paul's gate. W. Estfielde Mayor, the 9 of Henry the 6. at the request of divers common counsels, granted it so to be: whereupon in the 19 of the same Henry, one thousand marks was granted by a common council towards the works of this conduit, and the reparations of other, this is called the little conduit in West cheap by Paul's gate. At the West end of this parish church, is a small passage for people on foot, through the same church, and west from the said church, some distance, is an other passage out of Pater Noster row, and is called of such a sign, Panyar Ally, Passagethrog● S. Michel's Church. Panier Ally. which cometh out into the North, over against S. Martin's Lane. Next is ivy Lane, ivy Lane. so called of ivy growing on the walls of the Prebend alms houses, but now the Lane is replenished on both the sides with fair houses, and divers offices be there kept, by registers, namely for the prerogative court of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Probate of wills, and for the Lord Treasurer's remembrance of the Exchequer, etc. This Lane runneth North to the West end of S. Nicholas Shambleses. Of old time was one great house, sometimes belonging to the Earls of Britain, since that to the Louels, and was called Louels Inn: Louels Inn. for Mathild, wife to john Lovel, held it in the first of Henry the 6. Than is Eldenese Lane, Eldeneselane, or Warwick Lane. which stretcheth North to the high street of Newgate Market, the same is now called Warwick Lane, of an ancient house there builded by an Earl of Warwick, and was since called Warwick Inn. Warwick's Inn. It is on record called a messsage in Eldenese Lane, in the parish of S. Sepulchre, the 28. of Henry the 6. Cicille the Duchess to Warwick, possessed it. Now again from the Conduit by Paul's gate on the North side, is a large street, running West to Newgate: the first part whereof, from the Conduit to the Shambleses, is (of selling bladders there) called Bladder street. Bladder street Than behind the Butcher's shops be now divers slaughter houses inward, and Tippling houses outward. This is called Mountgodard Street, Mountgodard street. by all likelihood of the Tippling houses there, and the Goddards or Pots, mounting from the tap to the table, from the table to the mouth, and sometimes over the head. Also this street goeth up to the North end of ivy Lane. Before this Mountgodard street, stall boards were set up by the Butchers, to show and to cell their flesh meat upon, over the which stalboords, they first builded sheds to keep off the weather: but since that, encroaching by little and little, they have made these stall boards & sheds, fair houses, meet for the principal Shambleses. Next is Newgate Market, Newgate market. first of corn and meal, and then of other victuals, which stretcheth almost to Eldenese Lane. A fair, new, and strong frame of Timber covered with lead was therefore set up at the charges to the City, near to the West corner of S. Nicholas shambleses, for the meal to be weighed, in the 1. of Ed. the 6. Sir john Gresham being then Mayor. On this side the North corner of Eldenese Lane, was sometime a proper parish Church of S. Ewine, Parish Church of S. Ewin. (as is before said) was given by Henry the 8. towards the erecting of Christ's Church: it was taken down, and in place thereof, a fair strong frame of timber was erected, wherein devil men of divers Trades. And from this frame to Newgate, is all of this Ward, and so an end thereof. It hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Council 12. Constables 17. Scavingers 18. Wardmote Inquest, 18. and a Bedle. And is taxed to the fifteen in London, at 54. pound, and in the Exchequer at 53. pound, 6. shillings 8. pence. Breadstreet Warde. Bredstreet Ward Breadstreet Warde. beginneth in the high street of West Cheap, to wit, on the South side, from the Standard, to the great Crosse. Than is also a part of Watheling street of this ward, to wit, from over against the Read Lion on the North side up almost to Paul's gate, for it lacketh but one house of S. Augustins Church. And on the South side, from the Read Lion gate to the Old Exchange, and down the same Exchange on the East side, by the West end of Maiden Lane, or Distar Lane, to Knightridars street, or as they call that part thereof, Old Fishstréete. And all the North side of the said Old Fishstréete, to the South end of Bredstréete, and by that still in Knightridars street, till over against the Trinity Church, and Trinity Lane. Than is Bredstréet Breadstreet. itself so called of bread in old time there sold: for it appeareth by records, that in the year 1302. which was the 30. of Ed. the 1. The Bakers of London were bounden to cell no bread in their shops or houses, but in the Market, and that they should have 4. Hall motes in the year, at four several terms, to determine of enormities belonging to the said Company. This street giving the name to the whole Ward, beginneth in West Cheap, almost by the Standard, and runneth down South, through or thwart Watheling street, to Knightridars street aforesaid, where it endeth. This Bredstréete is wholly on both sides of this Ward. Out of the which street on the East side, is Basin Lane, a piece whereof, to wit, too and and over against the back gate of the Read Lion in Watheling street, is of this Bredstréete Warde. Than is there one other street, which is called Friday street, Friday street. and beginneth also in West Cheap, and runneth down South through Watheling street, to Knightrider street (or Old Fishstréet) This Friday street is of Bredstréete Warde, on the East side from over against the North-east corner of saint Mathewes Church, and on the West side from the South corner of the said Church, down as aforesaid. In this Friday street on the West side thereof, is a Lane, commonly called Maiden Lane, or Distaff Lane, corruptly for Distar Lane, which runneth West into the old Exchange: and in this lane is also one other Lane, on the South side thereof, likewise called Distar Lane, which runneth down to Knightriders Street, or old Fishstréete: and so be the bounds of this whole Ward. The Monuments to be noted here, are first, the most beautiful frame and front of fair houses and shops, that be within all the walls of London, or elsewhere in England, commonly called Godsmithes' row, The goldsmiths row in Cheap. betwixt Breadstréet end, and the Cross in Cheap, but is within this Breadstréete Warde: the same was builded by Thomas Wood Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs, in the year 1491. It continueth in number, ten fair dwelling houses, and fourteen shops, all in one frame uniformly builded, four stories high, beautified towards the street, with the goldsmiths Arms, and the likeness of woodmen (in memory of his name) riding on monstrous beasts, all which is cast in Lead, richly painted over, and guilt: these he gave to the Goldsmiths, with stocks of money to be lent to young men, having those shops etc. This said Front was again new painted and gilded over, in the year 1594. Sir Richard Martin being then Mayor, and keeping his Mayoralty in one of them, and serving out the time of Cutber● Buckle in that office, from the second of julie, till the 28. of October. Than for Watheling Street, Watheling street. which Leyland calleth Atheling or Noble street: but since he showeth no reason why it was so called, I rather take it so named of the great high way of the same calling. True it is, that at this present as of old time also, the inhabitants thereof were and are, wealth Drapers, retailors of woollen clothes both broad and narrow, of all sorts, more than in any one street of this City. Of the old Exchange, here I have noted in Faringdon Warde: wherefore I pass down to Knightriders street, Knightriders Street. whereof I have also spoken in Cordwainer street Ward, but in this part of the said Knightriders street, is a fishmarket kept, and therefore called old Fishstréete, for a difference from new Fishstréete. In this old Fishstréete, Fishmarket called old Fish-street. is one row of small houses, placed along in the midst of Knightriders street, which row is also of Bredstréete Warde, these houses now possessed of Fishmoongers, were at the first but movable boards (or stables) set out on market days, to show their fish there to be sold: but procuring licence to set up sheds, they grew to shops, and by little and little, to tall houses, of three or 4. stories in height, and now are called Fishstréete. Bredestréet, Breadstreet. so called of bread sold there (as I said) is now wholly inhabited by rich Merchants, and divers fair Inns be there for good receipt of carriers, and other travelers to the city. On the East side of this street, at the corner of Watheling Street, is the proper church of All-hallows in Bread street, Parish church of All-hallows in Bredstreet. wherein are the monuments of james Thame Goldsmith, john Walpole Goldsmith 1349. Thomas Beaumont Alderman, one of the Sheriffs, 1442. Sir Richard Chaury Salter Maior, 1509. Sir Thomas Pargitar Salter Maior, 1530. Henry Sucley Marchantailor, one of the Sheriffs 1541. Richard Read Alderman, that served & was taken prisoner in Scotland, 1545 Robert House one of the Sheriffs, 1586. William Albany: Richard May, and Roger Abde Marchantaylors. The steeple of this church had sometime a fair spéere of stone, but taken down upon this occasion. In the year 1559. the fifth of September, about noon or midday, fell a great tempest at London, in the end whereof, happened a great lightning, with a terrible clap of thunder, which struck the said spear about nine or ten foot beneath the top thereof: Spear of All-hallows steeple taken down. out of the which place fell a stone, that slew a dog, and overthrew a man that was playing with the dog: the same spear being but little damnified hereby, was shortly after taken down, for sparing the charges of reparation. On the same side is Salter's Hall, Salter's Hall. with six alms houses in number, builded for poor decayed brethren of that company: This Hall was burned in the year 1539. and again re-edified. Lower down on the same side, is the parish church of Saint Mildred Parish church of S. Mildred in Bredstreet. the virgin. The monuments in this Church be of the Lord triumphant, of Saint Albon's knight, who was supposed to be either the new builder of this Church, or best benefactor to the works thereof, about the year 1300. & odd. Cornish gentleman 1312. William Palmer bladder a great benefactor also 1356. john Shadworth Mayor, 1401. who gave the parsonate house, a revestry, and Churchyard, in the year 1428. and his monument is pulled down. Stephen Bug Gentleman, his Arms be 3. water bugs, 1419 Roger Ford Uintoner, 1440. Thomas Barnwell Fishmonger, one of the Sheriffs, 1434. Sir john Hawlen Clarke, Parson of that Church, who built the Parsonage house newly, after the same had been burned to the ground, together with the Parson and his man also, burned in that fire, Parson of S. Mildred and his man burned. 1485. john Pranell 1510. William Hurstwaight Pewterer to the King, 1526. Christopher Turner Chirurgeon to King Henry the 8. 1530. Ralph Simonds Fishmonger, one of the Sheriffs, in the year 1527. Thomas Laugham gave to the poor of that Parish four Tenements, 1575. Thomas Hall Salter, 1582. Thomas Collins Salter, Alderman. Sir Ambrose Nicholas Salter, Maior, 1575. was buried in Sir john Chadworths' Uault. Out of this Bredstréet, on the same East side, is a Basin lane, a part whereof (as is afore showed) is of this Ward, but how it took the name I have not read: other then that in the 20. year of Richard the second, the same was called the Bakehouse: Basin Lane called the Bakehouse. whetherment for the King's Bakehouse, or of Bakers dwelling there, and baking bread to serve the Market in Bredstréete, where the bread was sold, I know not: but sure I am, I have not read yet of any Basin, or of Gerrarde the Giant, to have any thing there to do. On the South side of this Lane, is one great house, of old time builded upon Arched Uaultes, of stone, and with Arched Gates, now a common Ostrey for receipt of travelers, commonly and corruptly called Gerardes Hall, of a Giant said to have dwelled there. A Pole of 40. foot long, and ●5. inches about, fabuled to be the justing staff of Gerarde a Giant. In the high Roofed Hall of this house, sometime stood a large Fir Pole, which reached to the roof thereof, and was said to be one of the staves that Gerarde the Giant used in the wars, to run withal. There stood also a Ladder of the same length, which (as they say) served to ascend to the top of the Staff. Of later years this Hall is altered in building, and divers rooms are made in it. Notwithstanding the Pole is removed to one corner of the Hall, and the Ladder hanged broken up on a Wall in the yard. The Hostelar of that house said to me, the Pole lacked half a foot of forty in length: I measured the compass, and found it to be fifteen inches. Reason of the Pole, could the master of the Hostrey give me none, but bad me read the great Chronicles, for there he had heard of it. Which answer seemed to me insufficient, for he meant the description of Britain, before Reinwoolfes' Chronicle, wherein the Author writing a Chapter of Giants, and having been deceived by some Authors, too much crediting their smooth speech, hath set down more matter than troth, as partly (and also against my will) I am enforced to touch. R. G. R.G. A stone said to be a tooth, and so by conjecture, a man to be 28. foot of height. in this brief collection of Histories hath these words. I the writer hereof, did see the tenth day of March, in the year of our Lord 1564. and had the same in my hand, the Tooth of a man, which weighed ten Ounces of Troy weight. And the skull of the same man is extant and to be seen, which will hold five Pecks of wheat. And the shin bone of the same man is six foot in length, and of a marvelous greatness. Thus far of R. G. Whereunto is added in the said description, that by conjectural simetrie of those parts, the body to be twenty eight foot long or more. From this he goeth to an other matter, and so to Gerard the Giant and his staff. But to leave these fictions and to return where I left, I will note what myself have observed concerning that house. I read, that john Guysors Guysors Hall restored to his old name. Mayor of London, in the year 1245. was owner thereof, and that Sir john Guysors Knight Mayor of London, and Constable of the Tower, one thousand three hundredth and eleven. And divers others of that name and family since that time owed it. For I read that William Guysors was one of the Sheriffs, one thousand three hundredth twenty nine. Moore, that john Guysors had issue, Henry and john. Which john had issue, Thomas. Which Thomas deceasing in the year one thousand three hundredth and fifty, left unto his son Thomas, his messsage called gysor's Hall, in the Parish of Saint Mildred in Bredstréete: john Guysors made a Feoffment thereof, one thousand three hundredth eighty six, etc. Gerard's Hall overthrown with Gerard the Giant, and his great spea●. So that it appeareth that this Guysors Hall of late time by corruption hath been called Gerard's Hall, for Guysors Hall, as bosoms Inn for Blossoms In. Bevis Marks, for Buries Mark. Mark Lane, for Mart Lane: Belliter Lane, for Belsetters' Lane: Gutter Lane, for Guthuruns Lane: Cry church, for Christ's church: S. Mihell in the Querne, for Saint Mihell at Corn, and sundry such others. Out of this Guysors Hall, at the first building thereof, were made divers Arched doors, yet to be seen, which seem not sufficient for any great monster, or other than men of common stature to pass through, the Pole in the Hall might be used of old time (as then the custom was in every parish) to be set up in the street, in the Summer as a Maypole, before the principal Hall, or house in the parish, or street, and to stand in the Hall before the scrine, decked with Holme & ivy, all the feast of Christmas. Every man's house of old time was decked with holly and ivy in the winter, especially at Christmas. The lader served for decking of the Maypole, & Roof of the Hall. Thus much for Guysors Hal & for the side of Bredstreet, may suffice. Now on the West side of Bredstréet, amongst divers fair and large houses for merchants, and fair Inns for passengers, had ye one prison house pertaining to the Sheriffs of London, called the compter in Bredstréete: but in the year 1555 the prisons were removed from thence, to one other new Compter Coumpter in Breadstreet. in Woodstréete, provided by the cities purchase, and builded for that purpose: the cause of which remove was this. Richard Husband Pastelar, keeper of this Coumpter in Bredstréet, being a wilful and headstrong man, dealt for his own advantage, hardly with the prisoners Prisoners removed from the Coumpter in Breadstreet to a new coumter in Woodstreet. Keeper of the counter sent to Newgate. under his charge, having also servants such as himself liked best for their bad usage, and would not for any complaint be reform: wherèupon in the year 1550. Sir Rowland Hill being Mayor, by the assent of a court of Aldermen, he was sent to the jail of Newgate, for the cruel handling of his prisoners: and it was commanded to the keeper of set those irons on his legs, which are called the widow's alms: These he ware from Thursday, till Sunday in the afternoon, and being by a court of Aldermen released, on the Tuesday, was bound in an hundred marks, to observe from thenceforth an act made by the common council, for the ordering of prisoners in the Compters: all which notwithstanding, he continued as afore: whereof myself am partly a witness: for being of a jury to inquire against a Sessions of gale delivery, in the year one thousand five hundred fifty two, we found the prisoners hardly dealt withal, for their achates and otherwise, Quest of inquiry indight the keepers of the gales for dealing hardly with their prisoners. and that thieves and strumpets were there lodged for four pence the night, whereby they might be safe from searches that were made abroad: They indited the bowling Allies, etc. for the which enormities, and other not needful to be recited, he was indited at that Session, but did rub it out, and could not be reform, till this remove of the prisoners for the house in Breadstreet was his own by Lease, or otherwise, so that he could not be put from it. Such Gaylors buying their offices, will deal hardly with pitiful prisoners. Now in Friday street, Friday street. so called of Fishmoongers dwelling there, and serving fridays market, on the East side, is a small parish church, commonly called S. john Evangelist, Parish church of S. john Evangelist. the monuments therein, be of john Dogget Marchantaylor, one of the Sheriffs, in the year 1509. Sir Christoper Askew Draper, Mayor, 1533. Than lower down, is one other parish church of S. Margaret Moses, Parish church of S. Margaret Moses. so called (as seemeth) of one Moses, that was founder, or new builder thereof. The monuments there, be of sir Richard Dobbet Skinner, Mayor, 1551. William Dane ironmonger, one of the Sheriffs, 1569. Sir john Allet fishmonger, Mayor 1591. On the West side of this Friday street, is Maiden Lane, Maiden Lane or Distarlane. so named of such a sign, or Distaff Lane, for Distar Lane, as I read in record of a Brewhouse, called the Lamb in Distar Lane, the sixteenth of Henry the sixth. In this Distar Lane, on the North side thereof, is the Cordwayners, cordwainers Hall. or shoemakers Hall, which company were made a brotherhood or fraternity, in the eleventh of Henry the fourth. On the South side of this Distar Lane, is also one other Lane, called Distar Lane: which runneth down to Knightriders street, or old Fishstréete, and this is the end of Bredstréete Warde: which hath an Alderman, his Deputy, Common Council ten. Constables ten. scavengers eight. Wardmote Inquest thirteen, and a Beadle. In standeth taxed to the fifteen in London, at thirty seven pound, and in the Exchequer at thirty six pound ten shillings. Queen Hithe Warde. NExt unto Bredstréet Warde, on the South side thereof, is Queen Hithe Ward, Queen Hithe Warde. so called of a water gate, or harborough for Boats, Lighters and Barges, and was of old time for ships, at what time, the timber bridge of London was drawn up, for the passage of them to the said Hithe, as to a principal strand for landing and unlading against the midst and heart of the City. This Ward beginneth in the East, in Knightriders street, Knightriders street. on the South side thereof, at the East end of the Parish church called the holy Trinity, and runneth West on the South side to a lane called Lambert hill, which is the length of the Ward in Knightriders street, out of the which street are divers Lanes, running South to Thames street, and are of this Ward: the first is Trinity Lane, Trinity Lane. which runneth down by the West end of Trinity Church. Than is Spuren Lane, Spuren Lanes, or Huggenlane. or Sporners Lane, now called Huggen Lane. Than Bredstréet hill. Than S. Mary Mounthaunt: out of the which Lane, on the East side thereof, is one other Lane, turning East, through S. Nicholas Olaues Church yard, to Bredstréete hill. This Lane is called Finimore Lane or five foot Lane, because it is but five foot in breadth at the West end: Finimore or five foot lane. In the midst of this lane, runneth down one other lane broader, South to Thames street, I think the same to be called Desboorne Lane, Desborne lane for I read, of such a Lane to have been in the parish of Mary Summerset, in the two and twentieth year of Edward the 3. where there is said to lie between the Tenement of Edward de Mountaoute Knight, on the East part, and the tenement sometime pertaining to William Gladwine on the West, one plot of ground, containing in length towards Thames street 25. foot etc. Last of all, have you Lambart hill Lambert hill. Lane, so called of one Lambart an owner thereof: and this is the furthest West part of this Ward. On the North side coming down from Knightriders street, the East side of Lambards' hill, is wholly of this Ward: and the west side, from the North end of the Blacksmithes Hall (which is about the midst of this Lane) unto Thames Street. Than part of Thames street, is also of this Ward, to wit, from a Cook's house called the sign of King David, three houses West, from the old Swan Brewhouse in the East, unto Huntingdon house, over against Saint Peter's Church in the West, near unto Paul's Wharf. And on the land side from a Cook's house called the blue Boor, to the West end of Saint Peter's Church, and up Saint Peter's Hill, two houses North above the said Church. And these be the bounds of this Ward: in which, are Parish Churches seven, halls of Companies two, and other Ornaments, as shall he showed. First, in Knightriders street, is the small Parish Church of the holy Trinity, Parish church of the Trinity. very old and in danger of down falling: collections have been made for the repairing thereof, but they will not stretch to far, and therefore it leaneth upon props or stilts. Monuments are therein none. Towards the West end of Knightriders street, is the Parish Church of S. Nicholas Cold Abbey, a comely Church, Parish church of S. Nicholas Cold Abbey. somewhat ancient, as appeareth by the ways raised thereabout: it hath been called of many, Golden Abbey, of some Cold Abbey, and so hath the most ancientest writing: but I could never learn the cause why it should be so called, and therefore I will let it pass. There be monuments in this Church, of Andrew Awbury Grocer, Mayor, and Thomas Friar fishmonger, in the year 1351. who gave to this Church and parish one plot of ground, containing fifty six foot in length, and forty three foot in breadth, at both ends to be a burial place for the dead of the said Parish, the twenty sixth of Edward the third. Also Thomas Madefrey Clarke, and john Pilot, gave to the Wardens of that Parish, one shop, and a house in Distar lane, for the continual repairing of the body of that church, the bells and Ornaments the twentieth of Richard the 2. buried there john Calf, & William Cogeshall, Walter Turk fishmonger Mayor, 1349. Richard Esgastone fishmonger, 1400. Richard Walberge fishmonger, 1407. Thomas Paddington fishmonger, 1485. Robert Harry fishmonger, and others. On the North side of this church in the Wall thereof, was of late builded a convenient Eistern of stone and lead, for receipt of Thames water, Water conduit. conveyed in pipes of lead to that place, for the ease and commodity of the Fishmoongers, and other inhabitants, in and about old Fishstréete. Barnard Randolphe common Sergeant of the city of London, did in his life time deliver to the company of Fishmoongers, the sum of nine hundred, pound, to be employed towards the conducting of the said Thames water, and sisterning the same, etc. In the parishes of S. Mary Magdalen, and S. Nicholas Cold Abbay near unto Fishstréete, seven hundred pound, and other two hundred pound to charitable deeds: he deceased, 1583. and shortly after, this conduit with the other, was made and finished. In Trinity Lane, on the west side thereof, is the Painter stayners Hall, Painter stainers Hall. for so of old time were they called, but now that workmanship of staining is departed out of use in England Lower down in Trinity Lane on the East side thereof, was sometime a great messsage pertaining unto john Earl of Cornwell, Earl of Cornwell his house. in the fourteenth of Edward the third. On Bredstréet hill down to the Thames on both sides, be divers fair houses, inhabited by Fishmoongers, Chéesemoongers, and Merchants of divers trades. On the West side whereof, is the parish church of S. Nicholas Olive, a convenient church, having the monuments of William Newport fishmonger, one of the Sheriffs 1375. Richard Willows Parson 1391. Richard Sturges fishmonger 1470. Thomas Lewen ironmonger, one of the Sheriffs 1537. who gave his messsage with that purtenances, wherein he dwelled, with fourteen Tenements in the said Parish of S. Nicholas, Parish church of S. Nicholas Olive. to be had after the decease of Agnes his wife, to the Ironmoongers, and they to give stipends appointed to Alms men, in five houses by them builded in the church yard of that parish: more to poor scholars in Oxford and Camebridge, etc. Blitheman, an excellent Orgainest of the queens Chapel, lieth buried there with an Epitaphe, 1591., etc. The next is old Fishstréet hill, Old Fishsteet hill. a Lane so called, which also runneth down to Thames street. In this lane on the East side thereof, is the one end of Finimore on Five foot lane. On the West side of this old Fishstréete hill, is the Bishop of hereford's Inn or lodging: Bishop of Hereford's house. an ancient house, and large rooms builded of stone and timber, which sometime belonged to the Mounthaunts in Norfolk. Radulphus de Maydenstone, Bishop of Hereford, about 1234. bought it of the Mounthaunts, and gave it to the Bishops of Hereforde, his successors. Charles both Chancellor of the Marches, Bishop of Hereforde, about the year 1517. repaired it, since the which time, the same is greatly ruinated, and is now divided into many small tenements: the Hall and principal roomethes, are an house to make Sugar loves, etc. Next adjoining, is the parish Church of S. Marry de mount Alto, or Mounthaunte, this is a very small church, Parish Church of Saint Mary Monte Alto. and at the first builded to be a chapel for the said house of the Mounthaunts, and for Tenements thereunto belonging. The Bishop of Hereford is Patron thereof. Monuments in this church of john Gloucester Alderman, 1345. who gave Salt Wharfe for two Chanteries there. There was sometime a fair house in the said parish of Saint Mary Mounthaunte, belonging to Robert Belkenape, Robert Belkenape his house given to Wil Wickam. one of the King's justices, but the said Belknape being banished this realm, King Richard the second, in the 12. of his reign, gave it to William Wickham bishop of Winchester. On the East side of this Old Fishstréete Hill, is one great house now let out for rent, which house sometime was one of the halls pertaining to the Company of Fishmongers, One old Hall of the fishmongers. Fishmonger's Hallmotes, six in number. at such time as they had six Hallmotes or meeting places: namely, twain in Bridge street, or new Fish street, twain in old Fish street, whereof this was one: and twain in Stockfishmonger Row, Patents. or Thames street, as appeareth by a Record the 22. of Richard the 2. Next Westward, is one other Lane called Lambard Hill, Lambard Hill. the East side whereof, is wholly of this Ward, and but half the west side: to wit, from the North end of the black Smiths Blacksmithes. Hall. Than in Thames street of this Ward, on the North side over against the queens Hithe, is the Parish church of S. Michael, Parish Church of S. Michael at Queen Hithe. a convenient church, but all the Monuments therein are defaced. I find that Stphen Spilman, Gentleman of that Family in Norfolk, sometime Mearcer, Chamberlain of London, than one of the Sheriffs and Alderman, in the year 1404. deceasing without issue, gave his lands to his Family the Spilmans ● and his goods to the making or repairing of Bridges and other like godly uses: And amongst others to this church, and was buried in the Quire. Also Richard Marlowe ironmonger Mayor, 1409. gave 20 pound to the poor of that Ward, and ten Marks to the church. Richard Grace ironmonger Alderman, one of the Sheriffs 1515 gave forty pound to that church, and was buried there. At the west end of that church goeth up a lane, called Pyellane. Piellane. On the same North side, at the South end of Saint Mary Mounthaunt Lane, is the parish church of Saint Mary Summerset, Parish church of Saint Mary Summerset. over against the broken Wharf: it is a proper church, but the Monuments are all defaced. I think the same to be of old time called Summer Hithe, Summers' Hithe. of some man's name that was owner of the ground near adjoining, as Edreds' Hithe was, so called of Edred owner thereof, and sithence called Queen Hithe, as pertaining to the Queen, etc. Than is a small Parish church of S. Peter, Parish church of S. Peter parva by Paul's Wharf. called parva or Little, upon the Thames, near unto Paul's wharf: In this church no Monuments do remain. At the UUest end thereof, is a Lane called Saint Peter's hill, but two houses up that lane, on the East side, is of this ward, and the rest is of Castle Baynarde UUarde. On the South side of Thames street, beginning again in the East, among the Cooks: The first in this Ward, is the sign of David the King: then is towns end lane, towns end lane. turning down to the Thames. Than is Queen Hithe, a large receptackle for ships, lighters, barges, and such other vessels. Touching the Antiquity and use of this gate and Hithe, first I find, that of old time the same belonged to one named Edred, and was then called Edreds' Hithe, Edreds' Hithe or Queen Hithe. ●iber trinitate which since falling to the hands of King Stephen, it was by his Charter confirmed to William Deypre: the firm whereof in Fee and in heritage, William Deypre gave it unto the Prior and Covent of the holy Trinity within Aldgate, as appeareth by this Charter. To Theobald by the grace of God Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate of England, and Legata Apostolic, to the Bishop of London, and to all faithful people, Clerks, and lay men, William Deypre sendeth greeting. Know ye me to have given and granted to God, and to the Church of the Holy Trinity of London, to the Prior and Cannons there serving God, in perpetual alms, Edreds' Hithe with the appurtenances, with such devotion, that they shall sand every year twenty pound unto the maintenance of the Hospital of S. Kathrens', which Hospital they have in their hands, and 100 shillings to the Monks of Berdmondsey, and 60. shillings, to the brethren of the Hospital of Sain Gyles, and that which remaineth, the said Prior and Cannons shall enjoy to themselves: witnesses, Richard de Lucia, Ralph Picot, etc. This Edreds' Hithe after the aforesaid grants, came again to the King's hands, by what means I have not read, but it pertained unto the Queen, and therefore was called Ripa Reginae, the Queens Banque, or queens Hithe, and great profit thereof was made to her use, as may appear by this which followeth. Record. King Henry the third, in the ninth of his Reign, commanded the Constables of the Tower of London, to arrest the ships of the Cinque Ports on the river of Thames, and to compel them to bring their corn to no other place but to the queens Hithe only. Ships of the ports arrested and forced to bring their corn to Queen Hithe. In the eleventh of his reign, he charged the said Constable to destraine any fish offered to be sold in any place of this city, but at the Queen Hithe. Moreover, in twenty eight of the said King's reign, an inquisition was made before William of York, Provost of Beverley, Henry of bath, and Hierome of Caxton, justices Itenerants, sitting in the Tower of London, touching the customs of Queen Hithe, observed in the year last, before the wars, between the King his father, and the Barons of England, and of old customs of other times, and what customs had been changed, at what time to Tax and payment of all things coming thither, and between woorepathe, and Anede Hithe, were found and ceased according to the old order, as well corn and fish as of other things: all which customs were as well to be observed in the part of Dounegate as in Queen Hithe, for the King's use. When also it was found, that the corn arriving between the gate of Guild Hall of the Merchants of Colleyne, and the Soak of the Archbishop of Canterbury (for he had a house near unto the Black Friars) was not to be measured by any other quarter, then be that of the Queens soak. Liberty of the Queen's Hithe from the Stilyard to the Blackfriars. Soak is court. After this, the Bailiffs of the said Hithe complained, that since the said Recognision, fourteen foreign ships laden with Fish, arrived at Bilnings' Gate, which ships should have arrived at the said Hithe: And therefore it was ordered, that if any foreign ship laden with Fish, should in form aforesaid, arrive elsewhere then at this Hithe, it should be at the King's pleasure to amerce them at 40. shillings. Notwithstanding, the ships of the citizens of London were at liberty to arrive where the owners would appoint them. After this, the said Henry the third, confirmed the grant of Richard Earl of Cornwell, for the Farm of the Queen Hithe, Queen Hithe let to farm to the Mayor and Commonalty of London. unto john Guysors then Mayor, and to the Commonalty of London, and their successors for ever, as by this his Charter appeareth: Henry by the grace of God, King of England, lord of Ireland, Duke of Gwine, and Earl of anjou, to all Archbishops, etc. Be it known, that we have seen the covenant between our brother Richard Earl of Cornwell, of the one party, and the Mayor and Commonalty of London on the other party, which was in this sort. Liber trinit●te, Lon. In the 30. year of H. the son of King john, upon the feast of the translation of Saint Edward at Westminster, this covenant was made between the honourable lord Richard Earl of Cornwell, and john Guysors then Mayor of London, and the Commons thereof, concerning certain exactions and demands pertaining to the Queen Hithe of London. The said Earl granted for himself and his heirs, that the said Mayor, and all Mayor's ensuing, and all the Commons of the city, should have and hold the Queen Hithe, with all the liberties, customs, and other appurtenances, repaying yearly to the said Earl, his heirs and assigns, 50. li. at Clarken well, at two several terms: to wit, the Sunday after Easter 25. pound. And at Michaelmas 25. pound. And for more surety hereof, the said Earl hath set thereunto his seal, and left it with the Mayor. And the Mayor and Commonalty have set to their seal and left it with the Earl. Wherhfore we confirm and establish the said covenant, for us, and for our heirs. Witnesses, Ralph Fitx Nchol, Richard Grace, john and William Brithem, Pawlin Payner, Ralph Wancia, joh. Gumband and other: at Windsor the 26. of Febr. the 31. of our reign. The charge of this Queen Hithe was then committed to the Sheriffs, and so hath continued ever since, the profits whereof are sore diminished, so that (as writeth Robert Fabian) Robert Fabian. it was worth in his time little above 20. Marks, or 15. pound, one year with an other. Now for customs of this Queen Hithe, Liber constitution. in the year 1302. Custom of Queen Hithe. the 30. of Ed. the 1. it was found by the oath of divers men, that Bakers, Brewers, and others buying their corn at Queen Hithe, should pay for measuring, portage, and carriage for every quarter of corn whatsoever, from thence to West Cheap, to S. Anthonins Church, to Horshewe Bridge, and to Woolsey street in the Parish of All-hallows the less, and such like distances, one ob. q. to Fleet Bridge, to Newgate, Cripplegate, to Bercheovars Lane, to Eastcheap and Billings Gate, one penny. Also that the measurer (or the meater) aught to have 8. A corn Meater, 8. M. Porters, and 24. Porters under them, at queen Hithe. chief Master Porters, every Master to have 3. Porters under him, and every one of them to find one horse, and seven sacks, and he that so did not, to lose his Office. This Hithe was then so frequented with Uessels, bringing thither corn (besides fish, salt, fuel, and other merchandises) that all these men, to wit, the meter, and Porters, 37. in number, for all their charge of horses and sacks, and small stipend, lived well of their labours: but now that case is altered: the Bakers of London and others Citizens, travel into the Countries, and buy their Corn of the Farmers, after the Farmer's price. King Edward the second in the first of his reign, gave to Margaret, wife to Peter de Gavestone, forty three pound, twelve shillings nine pence ob. q. Liber Guild. out of the rent in London, to be received of the queens Hithe. Certain Inpositions were set upon ships and other vessels, coming thither, as upon Corn, Salt, and other things, toward the charge of cleansing Roomeland Romeland at Queen Hithe. there, the 41. of Edward the 3. The third of Edward the fourth, the Market at Queen Hithe being hindered by the slackness of drawing up London Bridge, it was ordained, that all manner of Uesselles, Ships, or Boats, great or small, resorting to the City with victual, should be sold by retail, and that if there came but one vessel at a time, were it salt, wheat, Kye, or other Corn from beyond the Seas, or other grains, Garlic, Onions, Hear, Sprats, Eels, Whyting, Place, Cod, Mackerell, etc. then that one vessel should come to Queen Hithe, Queen Hithe to be more frequented of Ships & boats than Billings gate. and there to make sale: but if two Uessailes came, the one should come to Queen Hithe, the other to Billings gate: if three, two of them should come to Queen Hithe, the third to Billings gate, etc. always the more to Queen Hithe: if the vessel being great, coming with salt from the Bay, and could not come to these keys, than the same to be conveyed by Lighters, as afore is meant. One large house for stowage of Corn (framed out of Lighters and Barges) is there lately builed. Sir john Lion Grocer Mayor, 1554. by his Testament, gave one hundred pound towards it, but since increased and made larger at charges of the City, in the year, 1565. A garner for corn at Queen Hithe. A garnar for corn, and a store house for meal at Queen Hithe stew lane. Timber Hithe. Next adjoining to this Queen Hithe, on the West side thereof, is Sault Wharf, named of Sault taken up, measured and sold there. The next is stew lane, of a stew, or hot house there kept. After that, is Timber Hithe, or Timber street, so called of Timber and Boards there taken up and Wharffed, it is in the Parish of Saint Mary Somershithe, as I read in the fifty sixth of Henry the third, and in the ninth of Edward the second. Than is Brookes wharf, Brooks Wharf. Broken wharf. & broken wharf, a water gate (or Key) so called, of being broken and fallen down into the Thames. By this Broken Wharf, By God's house by broken wharf. remaineth one large old building of stone, with Arched gates, which messsage as I find in the reign of Henry the third, the forty three year, pertaining unto Hugh de Bygot, and in the eleventh of Edward the second, to Thomas Earl of Norfolk, Martial of Ireland: In the eleventh of Henry the sixth, to john Newberry Duke of Norfolk, etc. Within the gate of this house, (now belonging to the city of London) is lately, to wit, in the year, 1594. and 1595. builded one large house, of great height, called an engine, made by Bevis Bulmar gentleman, for the conveying and forcing of Thames water An engine for enforcing of thames water. to serve in the middle and West parts of the City. The ancient great Hall of this messsage, is yet standing, and pertaining to a great Brewhouse for Beer. West from this, is Trigge lane, Trigge lane. going down to the Thames, Next is called Bosse lane, Bosse lane. of a Boss of water, like unto that of Billings gate, there placed by the executors of Richard Wittington. Than is one great messsage sometime belonging to the Abbots of Chartsey in Surrey, and was their Inn, wherein they were lodged, when they repaired to the City: it is now called Sandy house, by what reason I have not heard: I think the Lord Sands have been lodged there. And this is an end of this Queen Hithe Warde: which hath an Alderman and his Deputy. Common Council six. Constables nine. scavengers eight. Wardmete Inquest thirteen, and a Beadle. It is taxed to the Fifteen in London twenty pound, and in the Exchequer at twenty pound. Castle Baynard Warde. THe next is Castle Baynard Warde, Castle Baynard ward. so named of an old Castle there, this Ward beginneth in the East, on the Thames side, at an house called Huntingdon house, and runneth West by Paul's Wharf, by Baynard's Castle, Puddle Wharf, and by the South side of Black Frers. Than turning by the East Wall of the said Friars, to the south-west end of Creed Lane. Than on the North side of Thames street, over against Huntingdon house, by Saint Peter's Church and lane, called Peter hill, along till over against Puddle Wharf: and then North up by the great Wardrobe, to the west end of Carter lane. Than up Creed lane, Auemary lane, and a piece of Pater Noster row, to the sign of the Golden lion, and back again, up Warwick lane, all the East side thereof, to the sign of the Crown by Newgate Market: and this is the farthest North part of this Ward. Than out of Thames street be lanes ascending North to Knightriders street: the first, is Peter hill lane, all of that Ward, (two houses excepted, adjoining to Saint Peter's church.) The next is Paul's Wharf hill, which thwarting Knightriders street, and Carter lane, goeth up to the South Chain of Paul's church yard. Than is adlestreet, Adlestreete. over against the West part of Baynard's Castle, going up by the West end of Knightridars street, and to Carter Lane. Thus much for Lanes out of Thames street. The one half of the West side of Lambard Hill Lane being of this Ward, at the Northwest end thereof, on the South side, and at the West end of Saint Mary Maudlin's Church on the northside, beginneth Knightridars street to be of this Ward, and runneth West on both sides to the Parish Church of Saint Andrew by the Wardrobe. Than at the said East end of S. magdalen's Church, goeth up the Old Exchange, all the west side whereof, up to the southeast gate of Paul's church yard, and by S. Augustine's church, is of this Ward. About the midst of this Old Exchange, on the West side thereof, is Carter Lane, which runneth West to the East entry of the Black Friars, and the south end of Creed Lane, out of the which Carter Lane, descendeth a Lane called Do little Lane, Do little lane. and cometh into Knightrider street, by the Boor's head Tavern: and more West, is Sermon Lane, by an Inn called the paul head. Than out of Carter Lane, on the North side thereof, the South Chain of Paul's church yard, and the church yard itself on that south side of Paul's church, the church of Saint Gregory, the BiPoppes Palace, and the Deans lodging, be all of this Ward: and such be the bounds thereof. The Ornaments in this Ward, be Parish churches 4. Of old time a castle: divers noblemen's houses. halls of Companies twain. And such others, as shall be showed. In Thames street, at the Southeast end, is an ancient messsage, of old time called Bewmounts Inn, Bewmounts' Inn. as belonging to that family of Noblemen of this realm, in the 4. of Edward the 3. Edward the 4. in the 5. of his reign, gave it to William Hastings, Lord Chamberlain, Master of his Mints. It is now called Huntingdon House, as belonging to the Earls of Huntingdon. Next is Paul's Wharfe, Paul's wharf a large landing place, with a common stair upon the River of Thames, at the end of a street called Paul's Wharfe Hill, which runneth down from Paul's chain. Next is a great messsage called Scrupes Inn, Scrupes Inn. sometime belonging to the Scrupes, in the 31. of Henry the 6. Than is one other great messsage sometime belonging to the Abbey of Fiscampe, beyond the Sea, and by reason of the wars, it coming to the hands of King Edward the 3. the same was given to Sir Simon Burley, Knight of the Garter, and therefore called Burley House Burley House in Thames street, between Baynard's Castle and Paul's Wharfe. Than have you Baynard's Castle, Baynard's Castle. whereof this whole Ward taketh the name. This Castle Banquethe on the River Thames, and was called Bainard's castle, of Baynard, a noble man that came in with William the Conqueror, of the which Castle, and of Baynard himself, I have spoken in an other place. There was also a messsage by Baynard's Castle, called Legates Inn, Legates Inn. in the 7. of Edward the fourth, where be now divers Wood Wharfes. Than is there a great Brewhouse, and Puddle Wharfe, Puddle wharf a water gate into the Thames, where horses use to be watered, and therefore being filled with their trampeling, and made puddle like, it is (as I suppose) called Puddle Wharfe. Than is there a Lane, between the Black Friars and the Thames, called in the 26. of Ed. the 3. Castle Lane. In this Lane also, is one great messsage, of old time belonging to the Priory of Okeborne in Wiltshire, and was the Prior's lodging when he repaired to London. prior of Okebornes' house. This Priory being of the French order, was suppressed by H. the 5. and with other lands and Tenements pertaining to the said Priory, was by H. the 6. given to his College in Cambridge, called now the king's College. About this Castle Lane, was sometime a Mill, or Mils, belonging to the Templars of the New Temple, as appeareth of Record: for King john in the first year of his reign, granted a place on the Fleet, near unto Baynard's Castle, to make a Mill, and the whole course of water of the Fleet, to serve the said Mill. A Mill or Mi●s by Baynard's Castle. I read also that in the year 1274. the 2. of E. the I. Ri. reason and Atheline his wife, did give to Nicholas de Musely Clark, ten shillings of yearly free and quiet rent, out of all his Tenements, with the houses thereupon built, and their appurtenances, which they had of the demise of the M. and brethren of Knights Templars in England, next to their Mill of Fleet, over against the houses to Laurence de Brooke, in the parish of S. Andrew, next to Baynard Castle: Soak Court or Warde pertaining to Richard Fitzwater. which Tenements lieth between the way, leading towards the said Mill on the West part. Also in the rights belonging to Robert Fitz Water and to his heirs, in the City of London, in the time of peace, it was declared in the year 1303. that the said Robert Castillon of London, and Banner bearer, had a soak (or Warde) in the City, that was by the wall of Saint Paul, as men go down the street before the Brewhouse of Saint Paul unto the Thames, and so to the side of the Mill, which is in the water that cometh down from Fleet Bridge, and goeth so by London walls, betwixt the friars Preachers Church, and Ludgate, and so runneth back by the house of the said Friars, unto the said Common wall of the Chanory of Saint Paul: that is all of the Parish of Saint Andrew, which is in the gift of his Ancestors by seniority, as more I have showed in the Castles. Now here is to be noted, that the walls of London at that time went strait South from Ludgate, down to the River of Thames, but for building of the Blacke-Fryars church, the said wall in that place, was by commandment taken down, and a new wall was then made, strait West from Ludgate to Fleet bridge, and then by the water of Fleet, to the River of Thames, etc. In the year 1307. the 35. of Edward the first, in a Parliament at Carlisle, Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln, complained of Noyances done to the water of the Fleet: Whereupon it was granted, that the said Mill should be removed and destroyed. Mill by Baynard's Castle, destroyed. This Ward ascendeth up by the East wall of the blacke-Fryars, to the South West end of Creed Lane, where it endeth on that side. Than to begin again on the North side of Thames street over against Huntingdon house by Saint Peter's Church and Lane, called Peter Hill, and so to S. Benet, Hude (or Hithe) over against Paul's Wharfe, a proper parish Church, Parish Church of Saint Benet hard by Paul's Wharfe. which hath the Monuments of Sir W. Cheiny knight, and Margaret his wife, 1442. buried there. West from this church, by the southend of adlestreet, almost against Puddle wharf, there is one ancient building of stone & timber, builded by the lords of Barkley, and therefore called barklie's Inn. barklie's Inn. This house is now all in ruin, and let out in several Tenements, yet the arms of the Lord Barkley remain in the stone work of an arched gate, and is between a Chevron crosses, 10. three, three, and four. Richard Beauchampe Earl of Warwick, was lodged in this house, than called barklie's Inn, in the Parish of Saint Andrew, in the reign of Henry the 6. Than turning up towards the North, is the parish church of S. Andrew in the Wardrobe, a proper church, Parish Church of Andrew in the Wardrobe The kings great Wardroabe. but few Monuments hath it. Than is the kings great Wardrobe, I have not read by whom the same was builded, neither when, or for what cause, but only that Sir john Beauchampe, knight of the Garter, Constable of Dover, Warden of the Sink Ports (son to Gwido de Beauchampe, Earl of Warwick) was lodged there: this house then bearing the name of the King's Wardrobe, in the 5. of E. the 3. The said john Beauchampe deceased in the year 1359. and was buried on the South side of the middle I'll of Paul's church. In this house of late years, is lodged Sir john Fortescue, knight, Master of the Wardrobe, Chancellor and under Treasurer of the Exchequer, and one of her majesties Privy Council. The secret letters & writings touching the estate of the realm, were wont to be introlled in the king's Wardrobe, and not in the Chancery, as appeareth by the Records. Claus. 18. E. 4 I Mendoza, 13. Claus. 33. E. I. Memb. 3. Et liberat. I. E. 2. Memb. 4. etc. From this Wardroabe by the West end of Carter Lane, then up Creed Lane, ave Mary Lane, a piece of Pater Noster row, up Warwick Lane, all the East side, to a Brewhouse called the Crown, as I said is of this ward. Touching Lanes ascending out of Thames street, to Knightridars street, the first is, Peter's Hill, Peter Hill Lane. wherein I find no matter of note, more than certain Alms houses, Alms houses for 6. poor Widows. lately founded on the West side thereof, by David Smith Embroiderer, for 6. poor widows, whereof each to have 20. s. by the year. At the upper end of this Lane towards the North, the corner houses there, be called Peter's Key, Peter's Key. but the reason thereof I have not heard. Than is Paul's Wharfe Hill, Paul's wharf Hill. on the East side whereof is Woodmongers Hall. Woodmongers Hall. And next adjoining, Garter House, so called of the Office there kept by Garter King of Heralds, and other Heralds. This house was sometime belonging to the Stanleys', for Thomas Stanley first Earl of Derby of that name, who married the Lady Margaret, Countess of Richmond, mother to Henry the seventh, in his time builded it. Queen Mary gave to Gilbert Dethike, than Garter principal King of arms of English men, Thomas Hawley Clarentioules King of arms of the South parts, William Haruy Alias Norey, King of arms of the North parts, and the other Heralds and Pursuivants of arms, and to their successors, all the same Capital messsage, or house called Derby house, with the appurtenances, situate in the Parish of Saint Benet and Saint Peter, then being in the tenure of Sir Richard Sackuile Knight, and lately parcel of the lands of Edward Earl of Derby, etc. To the end that the said Kings of Arms, Heralds and Pursuivants of Arms, and their successors, might at their liking devil together, and at meet times, to congregate, speak, confer, and agree among themselves, for the good government of their faculty, and their records might be more safely kept, etc. Dated the eighteenth of july, 1555. Philip and Mary the first and third year. Than higher up, near the South chain of Paul's church yard, is the paul head Tavern, which house with the appurtenances, was of old time called Paul's Brewhouse, Paul's Brewhouse. for that the same was so employed, but being since left off, and let out. On the West side of this street, is one other great house builded of stone, which belongeth to Paul's church, and was sometime let to the Blunts Lords Mountioy, but of later time to a College in Cambridge, and from them to the Doctors of the Civil Law and Arches, who kept a commons there, and many of them being there lodged, it is called the Doctor's Commons. Doctor's Commons. Above this on the same side, was one other great building, over against Paul's Brewhouse, and this was called Paul's Bakehouse, Paul's Bakehouse. and was employed in baking of bread, for the church of Paul's. In adlestreet Adlestreete. or Lane, I find no monuments. In Lambart hill Lambart hill Lane on the West side thereof, adjoining to the North side of the Black Smiths Hall, Black Smiths Hall, have ye one plot of ground enclosed with a brick wall, for a Church yard Church yard of S. Mary Magdalen. or burying plot for the dead, of Saint Mary magdalen's by old Fishstréete. Which was given to that use, by john Iwarbie an Officer in the receipt of the Exchequer, in the twenty six year of Henry the sixth, as appeareth by patent. john Iwarby etc. gave a piece of land lying voyde in the Parish of Saint Mary Magdalen nigh to old Fishstréete, between the Tenement of john Phipot on the South, and the Tenement of Bartholomewe Burwashe on the West, and the Tenement pertaining to the Covent of Holly-well, on the North, and the way upon Lambards' hill, on the East, for a Churchyard to the Parson, Church Wardens, etc. Over against the North West end of this Lambard hill Lane in Knightriders street, is the Parish Church of Saint Mary Magdalen, Parish church of S. Mary Magdalen. a small Church, having but few Monuments. On the West side of this Church, by the porch thereof, is placed a Conduit, Coduit of Thames water. or Cistern of Lead, Castelated with stone for receipt of Thames water, conveyed at the charges of the before named Barnard Randolph Esquire. By the East end of Sant Mary magdalen's Church, runneth up the old Exchange Lane, by the West end of Carter Lane, to the Southeast gate or chain, or of Paul's Church yard as is before showed. And in this part was the Exchange kept, and Bullion was received for Coinage, as is noted in Faringdon Warde within. In this Parish of Saint Mary Magdalen, out of Knightriders street up to Carter Lane, be two small Lanes, the one of them called Do little Lane. Do little Lane. The other Sermon Lane, or Sheremoniers Lane, Sermon Lane. or Sheremoniers Lane. the reason of their names so given, I have not learned, but I find Sermon Lane or Sheremoniers Lane, so called in the fourteenth of Edward the first, and a place there, to be called the black fit, with four shops adjoining. I find also that in the thirteenth of Richard the second, William de la Pole had an house there, it may be supposed that Lane to take name of such as cut and rounded the plaits to be coined into Esterling pence, for the place of Coining was in the old Exchange near unto this. In Knightriders street, is the College of Physicians, College of Physicians. wherein was founded in the year one thousand five hundred eighty two, a public Lecture in surgery, Lecture in Chirurgery to be read. to be read twice every week, etc. as is showed elsewhere. In the South Church yard of Paul's, is the South side, and West end of the said church: West Gates of Paul's Church. In the which West end, be three stately Gates, or Entries, curiously wrought of stone, namely the middle gate, in the midst whereof, is placed a massy Pillar of brass, whereunto the leaves of the said great Gate are closed and fastened, with locks, bolts, and bars of iron: All which notwithstanding, on the 24. of December, in the year 1565. by a tempest of wind then rising from the West, these Gates were blown open, Gates of Paul's church, blown open. the bars, bolts, and locks, broken in sunder, or greatly bended. Also on the 5. of january, in the year 1589. by a like Tempest of wind then in the South West, the lesser West Gate of the said church next to the bishops Palace was broken, both bolts, bars, and locks, so that the same was blown over. At either corner of this West end, is also of ancient building, a strong Tower of stone, made for bell Towers, the one of them, to wit, next to the Palace, is at this present to the use of the same Palace, the other towards the South, is called the Lowlardes' Tower, For Lollards' Tower, Read M. Fox. and hath been used as the bishops Prison, for such as were detected for opinions in Religion, contrary to the faith of the church. The last prisoner which I have known committed thereto, was in the year 1573. one Peter Burchet, Peter Burchet Gentleman of the middle Temple, for having desperately wounded, and minding to have murdered a serviceable Gentleman named john Hawkens Esquire, in the high street near unto the Strande, who being taken and examined, was found to hold certain opinions erroneous, and therefore committed thither, and convicted, but in the end by persuasion, he promised to objure his heresies: and was by commandment of the Council, removed from thence to the Tower of London, etc. where he committed, as in an other place I have at large reported. Adjoining to this Lowlardes' Tower, is the Parish church of Saint Gregory, Parish Church of S. Gregory. appointed to the Petty Cannons of Paul's. Monuments of note I know none there. The rest of that South side of Saint Paul's Church, with the Chapter House (a beautiful piece of work, builded about the reign of Edward the third) is now defaced, by means of Lysences granted to Cutlers, Budget makers, and other, first to build low sheds, but now higher Houses, which do hide that beautiful side of the Church, save only the top and South Gate. On the North West side of this Church yard, is the bishops Palace, The Bishop's Palace. a large thing for receit, wherein divers Kings have been lodged, and great household hath been kept, as appeareth by the great Hall, which of late years since the rebatement of bishops livings, hath not been furnished with household meinie and Guests, as was meant by the builders thereof, and was of old time used. The Deans lodging on the other side, directly against the Palace, is a fair old House, and also divers large houses, are on the same side builded, which yet remain, and of old time were the Lodgings of Prebendaries and Residenciars, which kept great households, and liberal hospitality, but now either decayed, or otherwise converted. Than is the Stacioners Hall The Sta●ionars Hall. on the same side, lately builded for them. And let this be an end of Baynard's Castle Ward, which hath an Alderman, his Deputy. Common Council 9 Constables 10. Scavingers 7. Wardmote Inquest, 14. and a Beadle. And to the Fiftéencis taxed at 12. pound. The Ward of Faringdon Extra, or without. THe farthest West Ward The Ward ● Faringdon w● of this City, being the 25. Warde of London, but without the Walls is called Faringdon without, and was of old time part of the other Faringdon within, until the 17. of Richard the second: in which it was divided and made twain, by the names of Faringdon infra, and Faringdon extra, as is afore showed. The bounds of which ward, without Newgate, and Ludgate, are these. First on the East part thereof, is the whole precinct of the late priory of Saint Bartholomewe, and a part of Long Lane, on the North, towards Aldersgate street, and Duck Lane, with the Hospital of Saint Bartholomewe on the West, and all Smithfield to the Bars in S. john street. Than out of Smithfielde, Chicken Lane toward Turmile brook, and over that brook by a bridge of timber, into the field: then back again by the Pens (or folds) in Smithfield, by Smithfield pond, to Cowe-Lane, which turneth toward Oldboorne: and then Hosiar Lane, out of Smithfield, also toward Oldboorne, till it meet with a part of Cow Lane. Than Cock Lane out of Smithfield, over against Pie corner: then also is Giltspur street, out of Smithfield to Newgate, then from Newgate West by Saint Sepulchres church to Turnagaine Lane: then to Oldboorne conduit, on Snor hill, to Oldboorne bridge: up Oldboorne hill to the Bars on both sides, on the right hand or North side, at the bottom of Oldboorne hill, is Gold Lane, Gold lane. sometime a filthy passage into the fields, now both sides builded with small tenements. Than higher is Lither Lane, Lither lane. turning also to the field, and so to the Bar. Now on the left hand or South side from Newgate, lieth a street called the Old Bailie, Old bailie. or court of the Chamberlain of this city: this stretcheth down by the wall of the city unto Ludgate: on the West side of which street, breaketh out one other Lane, called Saint George's Lane, till ye come to the southend of sea-coal Lane: and then turning towards Fléetestréete, it is called Fleet Lane. The next out of the high street from Newgate turning down South, is called the little bailie, and runneth down to the East of Saint Georges Lane. Than is sea-coal lane, which turneth down into Fleetelane: near unto this sea-coal lane, Limeburners' lane, or seacoal lane. in the turning towards Oldboorne conduit, is an other lane, called in Record, windeagaine lane, Windeagaine lane. for that it turneth down to Turmill Brooke, and from thence back again, for there is no way over. Than beyond Oldboorne bridge to Shoe lane, Shooelane. which runneth out of Oldboorne unto the conduit in Fléetestréete. Than also is Fewtars' lane, Fewtars' lane. which likewise stretcheth South into Fléetestréete, by the East end of Saint Dunston's church, and from this lane to the Bars, be the bounds without Newgate. Now without Ludgate, this ward runneth up from the said gate to Temple bar, and hath on the right hand or northside, the south end of the Old Bayly, then down Ludgate hill, to the Fleet lane, over Fleet bridge, and by Shoe lane, and Fewters lane, and so to New street (or Chancery lane) and up that lane to the house of the Rolls, which house is also of this ward, and on the other side to a lane over against the Rolls, which entereth Ficquetes field. Than hard by the Bar is one other lane called Shire lane, Shire lane. because it divideth the City from the Shire, and this turneth into Ficquetes field. From Ludgate again on the left hand, or south side to Fleet bridge, to bride lane, which runneth south by Bridewell, then to Water lane, which runneth down to the Thames. Than also by the White Friars, and by the Temple, even to the Bar aforesaid, be the bounds of this Faringdon ward without. Touching Ornaments and Antiquities in this ward, first betwixt the said Newgate and the parish Church of S. sepulchres is a way towards Smithfielde, called Gild spur, or Knightridars street, Giltspurre or Knightridars street. of the knights and other riding that way into Smithfielde, replenished with buildings on both sides up to Pie corner, a place so called of such a sign, sometimes a fair Inn for receit of travelers, but now divided into Tenements, and over against the said Pie corner lieth Cock lane, Cock lane which runneth down to Oldbourne Conduit. Beyond this Pie corner lieth west Smithfielde, West Smithfielde. compassed about with buildings, as first on the south side following, the right hand standeth the fair parish church, and large Hospital of Saint Bartilmew, founded by Rahere the first Prior of Saint Bartilmew's Hospital of S. Bartilmew. thereto near adjoining, in the year 1102. Alfune (that had not long before builded the parish church of S. Giles without Cripplegate, became the first Hospitelar, or Proctor for the poor of this house, and went himself daily to the Shambleses and other markets, where he begged the charity of devout people for their relief, promising to the liberal givers, (and that by alleging Testimonies of the holy scripture) reward at the hands of God, this Hospital, was since repaired about the year 1423. of the goods and by the Executors of Richard Whitington, sometime Mayor of London, and was governed by a Master, and eight Brethrens, being Priests for the church, and four Sisters to see the poor served. Sir john Wakering Priest, Master of this house in the year 1463. amongst other books gave to their common Library the fairest Bible, that I have seen written in large velame, by a Brother of that house, named john Coke at the age of 68 years, when he had been Priest 43. years, since the spoil of that Library. I have seen this book in the custody of my worshipful friend master, Walter Cope. Monuments in this Church of the dead, Benefactors thereunto be these, Elizabeth wife to Adam Hone Gentleman, Bartilmew Bildington, jane wife to john Cook, Dame Alis wife to Sir Richard Isham, Alice wife to Nicholas Bayly, john Woodhouse Esquire, Robert Palmar Gentleman, Idona wife to john Walden lying by her husband on the North side late newly builded, 1424. Sir Thomas Malifant Baron of Winnow, Lord Sir George in Glamorgan, and Lord Ockeneton and Pile in the county of Pembroke, 1438. Dame Margaret his wife, Daughter to Thomas Astley Esquire, with Edmond and Henry his children, William Markeby Gentleman 1438. Richard Shepley, and Alice his wife, Thomas Savill Sergeant at Arms, Edward Beastby Gentleman, and Margaret his wife, Walter Ingham and Alienar his wife, Robert Warnar and Alice Lady Carne, Robert Galdfet, johan and Agnes his wives, Sir Robert Danuars, and Dame Agnes his wife, daughter to Sir Richard Delaber, William Brookes Esquire, john Sirley Esquire, and Margaret his wife, having their pictures of Brass, in the habit of Pilgrims on a fair flat stone with an Epitaph. 1456. jane Lady Clinton, who gave ten pound to the poor there, 1458. Agnes Daughter to Sir William, S. George, john Rogebrooke Esquire, Richard Surgeon, Thomas Burgan Gentleman, Elizabeth wife to Henry Skinard daughter to Chincroft Esquire, William Mackeley Gentleman and Alice his wife, William Fitzwater Gentleman, 1466. This Hospital was valued at the suppression in the year, 1539. the 31. of Henry the eight to 35. pound, six shillings, 7. pence, yearly. The church remaineth a parish church to the tenants dwelling in the precinct of the Hospital, Hospital of Bartilmew suppressed. but in the year 1546. on the 13. of januarie, the Bishop of Rochester, preaching at Paul's Cross, declared the gift of the said king, to the Citizens for relieving of the poor, which contained the Church of the Grey Friars, the church of S. Bartilmew with the Hospital, with all the Messages and appurtenances in Giltspurre, alias Knightridars street, Breton street, Petar Kay, in the parish of S. Mary Magdalen, in old Fish-street, and in the parish of S. Benet Huda, Lymehurst, or Lymehost, in the Parish of Stebunheth, etc. Than also were orders devised for relief of the poor, the inhabitants were all called to their parish churches whereby Sir Richard Dobbes then Maior their several Aldermen, or other grave Citizens, they were by eloquent orations persuaded how great and how many commodities would ensue unto them and their City, if the poor of divers sorts which they named were taken from out their streets, lanes, and allies, & were bestowed and provided for in Hospitals abroad etc. therefore was every man moved liberally to grant, what they would impart, towards the preparing, and furnishing of such Hospitals & also what they would contribute weekly towards their maintenance for a time (which they said should not be past one year or twain) until that they were better furnished of endowment: to make short every man granted liberally, according to his ability, and books were drawn of the relief in every ward of the City, towards the new Hospitals, and were delivered by the Mayor, to the kings Commissioners, on the 17. of February, and order was taken therein, so as the 26. of july, in the year 1552. the repairing of the Grey friars house, for poor fatherless children, was taken in hand, and also in the latter end of the same month, began the repairing of this Hospital of S. Bartilmew, and was of new endowed, and furnished at the charges of the Citizens. On the east side of this Hospital, lieth Duke lane, which runneth out of Smithfielde south, to the northend of little Bretaine street. On the east side of this Duck lane, and also of Smithfield lieth the late dissolved Priory at S. Bartilmew Priory of S. Bartilmew. founded also by Rahere, a pleasant witted Gentleman, and therefore in his time called the kings Minstrel, about the year of Chri●t 1102. he founded it in a part of the often before named morish ground, which was therefore a common Lay stall of all filth, that was to be voided out of the City, he placed Canons there, and himself became their first Prior, and so continued till his dying day, and was there buried in a fair monument, of late renewed by Bolton. Amongst other memorable matters touching this Priory, one is of an Archbishop's visitation, which Matthew Paris hath thus. Boniface (saith he) Archbishop of Canterbury, Archbishop of Canterbury visiteth Saint bartilmew's Priory with stripes. in his Visitation, came to this Priory, where being received with Procession, in the most solemn wise, he said that he passed not upon the honour, but came to visit them, to whom the Canons anwered that they having a learned Bishop, aught not in contempt of him, to be visited by any other: which answer so much offended the Archbishop, Words of the Archbishop to the Prior and Canons. that he forthwith fell on the Supprior and smote him on the face, saying, indeed, indeed doth it become you English Traitors so to answer me, thus raging with oaths not to be recited, he rend in pieces the rich Cope of the Supprior, Suppriors cope ●ent and trodden under foot & himself almost slain. and trod it under his feet, and thrust him against a Pillar of the Chancel, with such spiritual violence, that he had almost killed him: But the Canons seeing their Supprior thus almost slain, came and plucked off the Archbishop The Archbishop armed & overthrown. with such force that they overthrew him backwards, whereby they might see that he was armed and prepared to fight, the Archbishop's men seeing their master down (being all strangers and their masters countrymen, borne in Provence) fell upon the Canons, beat them, tore them and trod them under feet, The Canons beaten and trod under foot. at length the Canons The Canons complained but could not be heard. getting away as well as they could, ran bloody and miry, rend and torn, to the Bishop of London, to complain, who bade them go to the king at Westminster, and tell him thereof, whereupon four of them went thither, the rest were not able, they were so sore hurt, but when they came to Westminster, the king would neither hear nor see them, so they returned without redress, in the mean season the whole City was in an uproar and ready to have rung the common bell, and to have hewed the Archbishop into small pieces, who was secretly crept to Lambhith, where they sought him and not knowing him by sight, The whole city in an uproar against the Archbishop. said to themselves, where is this Ruffian, that cruel s●iter, he is no winner of souls, but an exactor of money, whom neither God, nor any lawful or free election, did bring to this Promotion, but the king did unlawfully intrude him, being utterly unlearned, a stranger borne and having a wife etc. but he conveyed himself over, and went to the king with a great complaint, against the Canons, whereas himself was guilty. Bolton Bolton last Pr●or of S. Bartlmew a great builder there. was the last Prior of this house, a great builder there: for he repaired the Priorse church with the parish church adjoining, the offices and lodgings to the said Priory belonging, and near adjoining, he builded of new the Manor of Chanonbery Canonberie. at Islington which belonged to the Canons of this house, and is situate in a low ground, somewhat north from the parish Church there, but he builded no house at Harrow on the hill, as edwarde Hall Edward Hall. hath written, following a fable then on foot. The people (sayeth he) being feared by Prognostications, which declared that in the year of Christ 1524. there should be such Eclipses in watery signs & such conjunctions, that by waters and floods many people should perish, people victuled themselves and went to high grounds for fear of drowning and especially one Bolton, which was Prior of S. Bartilmew's in Smithfielde builded him a house upon Harrow on the hill, only for fear of this flood, thither he went and made provision of all things necessary within him for the space of two months etc. but this was not so indeed as I have been credibly informed: true it is that this Bolton, was also Parson of H●●row, and therefore bestowed some small reparations on the parsonage house, and builded nothing there more than a Dovehouse, to serve him when he had foregone his Priory. To this Priory king Henry the second granted the Privilege of a fair to be kept yearly at Bartilmewtide Bartilmewfai● for three days, to wit, y● Eve, the day, & next morrow, to the which the Clothiars of all England, and Drapers of London repaired, and had their Booths and standing within the Churchyard of this Priory closed in with walls and gates locked every night, and watched for safety of men's goods, and wares, a court of Piepowdars Court of Piepowdars. was daily during the Fair held for debts & contracts. But now in place of booths within this Church yard (only let out in the fair time) be many large houses builded, and the North wall towards Long lane being taken down, a number of tenements are there erected. The monuments of the dead in this Priory, are these of Rahere the first founder, Roger Walden Bishop of London, 1406. john Warton Gentleman, and Elizabeth his wife, daughter to William Scot Esquire, john Louth Gentleman, Robert Shikeld Gentleman, Sir Bacon knight, john Ludlow, and Alice his wife, W. Thirlewall Esquire, Richard Lancaster Herald at Arms, Thomas Torald. john Roiston, john Watforde, john Carleton, Robert son to Sir Robert Willoughby, Gilbert Halstocke, Elinor wife to Sir Hugh Fen, mother to Margaret Lady Burgaveny, William Essex Esquire Richard Vancke Baron of the Exchequer, and Margaret his wife, daughter to William de la Rivar, john Winderhall, john Duram Esquire, and Elizabeth his wife, john Malwaine, Alice wife to Balstred daughter to Kniffe, William Scarlet Esquire, john Golding, Hugh Walter Gentleman, and the late wise and worthy Sir Walter Mildway knight, Chancellor of the Exchequer etc. This Priory at the late surrender thereof made the 30. of Henry the eight was valued at 653. ●. 15. ●. by year. The Church and Bell Tower (having six Bells in a Tune) were sold to the parish of S. sepulchres, and then the church being pulled down to the Choir, the Choir was by the kings order annexed for the enlarging of the old Parish church thereto adjoining, and so was used till the reign of Queen Mary, who gave it to the friars Preachers or Black Friars, and was used as their conventual Church, until the first of our Sovereign Lady Queen Elizabeth, those Friars were once more put out, and then all the said church was wholly as it stood in the last year of Edward the sixth given by Parliament to remain for ever a parish Church for the inhabitants within the Close called great S. Bartilmew's. Since the which time, that old Church is pulled down, except the Steeple of rotten timber ready to fall of itself, I have often heard it reported that a new steeple should be builded with the stone of the old Parish Church, but no such thing is performed, for it is more easy to pull down then to set up and build. On the North side of this Priory, is the lane, truly called Long, which reacheth from Smithfield towards Aldersgate street, the rest of Smithfield, from long lane Long lane. end to the Bars is enclosed with Inns, Brewhouses, and large tenements on the west side is Chicken lane Chiken lane. down to Cowbridge. Cow bridge. Than be the Pens Pens in Smithfielde or Folds so called of Sheep there parted, and penned up to be sold, on the market days. Than is Smithfielde Pond, Smithfielde pond some time a Pool. which of old time in records was called Horse Poole, for that men watered horses there, and was a great water. In the 6. of Henry the fift, a new building was made in this west part of Smithfielde betwixt the said Pool and the River of the Wells, or Turnemill Brooke, in a place (then called the Elms, The Elms in Smithfielde a place wherein Trespassers. were executed for that there grew many Elm trees) and this had been the place of execution for Offenders: since the which time the building there hath been so increased, that now remaineth not one tree growing. Amongst these new buildings is Cowbridge street, or Cow lane, which turneth toward Oldbourne, in which lane, the Prior of Semperingham had his Inn or London lodging. The rest of that west side of Smithfielde, hath divers fair Inns and other comely buildings up to Hosiar lane, Hosiar lane. which also turneth down to Oldbourne, till it meet with Cowbridge street. From this lane to Cock lane, Cock lane over against Pie corner. And thus much for incrochmentes and enclosure of this Smithfielde, whereby remaineth but a small portion, for the old uses, to wit, for markets of horses and cattles, neither for Military exercises, and justinges, justinges in Smithfielde. turnings, and great triumphs which have been there performed before the Princes and Nobility both of this Realm, and Foreign countries. But now to return through Giltspurre street by Newgate where I first began, there standeth the fair parish church parish church of S. Sepulchre called S. Sepulchre in the Bailie, or by Chamberlain gate in a fair church yard, though not so large as of old time, for the same is let out for buildings etc. This church was newly re-edified or builded about the reign of Henry the sixth, john Leyland, or of Edward the fourth, one of the Pophames Pophames builders of S. sepulchres Church. was a great builder there, namely of one fair chapel, on the south side of the Choir, as appeareth by his Arms, and other monuments in the glass windows thereof, and also of the fair Portch of the same church towards the South, his Image fair graven in stone, was fixed over the said Portch, but defaced and beaten down, his title by offices was this, Chancellor of Normandy, Captain of Vernoile, Perch, Susan, and Bayon, and Treasurer of the kings household, he died rich, leaving great Treasure of strange coins and was buried in the Charterhouse church, by west Smithfield: the first nobilitating of these Pophames was by Mathild the Empress, daughter to Henry the first, and by Henry her son, one Pophame gentleman of very fair lands in Southampton shire died without issue male, about Henry the sixth, and leaving four daughters they were married to Fostar, Barentine, Wodham, & Hamden, Popham Dean (distant 3. miles from Clarendon, & 3. miles from Motisham) was sometime the chief Lordship or Manor house of these Pophames. There lie buried in this Church, William Andrew Esquire, Stephen Clamparde Esquire, Laurence Warcam Esquire, john Dagworth, William Porter, Esquire, Robert Scarlet Esquire etc. There lieth a street from Newgate west, to the end of Turnagaine lane, and winding north to Oldbourne Conduit. Oldboorne Conduit by Oldboorne Crosse. This Conduit by Oldbourne Cross was first builded 1498. Thomasin Widow to john Percivall, Maior, gave to the second making thereof twenty marks, Richard Shore ten pound, Thomas Kensworth and others also did give towards it. But of late a new Conduit was there builded in place of the old, namely in the year one thousand five hundrd seventy seven, by William Lamb sometime a gentleman of the Chapel to king Henry the eight, and afterward a Citizen and Clothworker of London, the water thereof he caused to be conveyed in Lead, from divers springs to one head and from thence to the said Conduit, and waste of one Cock at Oldborne bridge, more than 2000 yards in length, all which was by him performed at his own only charges (amounting to the sum 1500. pound) and by him finished. From the west side of this Conduit is the high way there called Snor hill, stretcheth out by Oldborne bridge over the oft named water of Turmill brook, and so up to Oldeborne hill, all replenished with fair building. Without Oldborne bridge on the right hand is Gold lane, as is afore showed: up higher on the hill be certain Inns, and other fair buildings, amongst the which of old time was a messsage called Scrops Inn, about the 37. of Henry the sixth. Than is the Bishop of Elies' Elie place in Oldborne. Inn, commonly called Ely place, for that it pertaineth unto the Bishops of Ely, the which john de Hotham Bishop of Elie did give by the name of his Manor and six tenements in Oldeborne to the Church and covent of Ely, as appeareth by patent Patent. of Record, the 9 of Edward the third. This man was 20. years Bishop of Elie, and deceased 1336. Thomas Arundel Bishop of Elie beautifully builded of new his Palace at Elie, and likewise his Manors in divers places, especially this in Oldeborne, which he did not only repair but rather new builded, and augmented it with a large Port gate house, or front towards the street or high way: his arms are yet to be discerned in the stone work thereof: he also sat Bishop of Ely 14. years, and was translated to York. In this house for the large and commodious rooms thereof, divers great and solemn feasts have been kept, especially by the sergeants at the law, whereof twain are to be noted for posterity. The first in the year 1464. the fourth of Edward the fourth in Michaelmas term, the Sergeants Sergeant's feast in Elie house. at Law held their feast in this house, to the which amongst other estates, Matthew Philip Mayor of London, with the Aldermen, Sheriffs, and commons of divers crafts being invited did repair: but when the Mayor looked to keep the state in the hall as it had been used in all places within the City and liberties (out of the King's presence) the Lord Grace of Ruthen, than Lord Treasurer of England, unwitting the sergeants and against their wills (as they said) was first placed: whereupon the Mayor, aldermans, and commons departed home, and the Mayor made the Aldermen to dine with him: howbeit he and all the Citizens were wonderfully displeased, that he was so dealt with, and the new sergeants and others were right sorry therefore, and had rather than much good (as they said) it had not so happened. One other feast was likewise there kept, in the year 1531. the 23. of king Henry the 8. the Sergeants then made were in number 11. namely, Thomas Audeley, Walter Luke, I. Bawdwine, I. Hind, Christopher jennie, I. Dowsell, Edward mervin, Edmond Knightley, Roger Chomley, Edward Montague, and Roger York. These also held their feast in this Elie house for five days, to wit, Friday the 10. of November, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuiesday. On Monday (which was their principal day) King Henry King Henry the 8. and Q. Katherine dined at the Sergeant's feasts. and Queen Katherine dined there (but in two chambers) and the foreign Ambassadors in a third chamber. In the Hall at the high table, sat Sir Nicholas Lambard Mayor of London, the judges, the Barons of the Exchequer, with certain Aldermen of the City: At the board on the south side, sat the master of the Rolls, the masters of the Chancery, and worshipful Citizens: On the North side of the Hall certain Aldermen began the board, and then followed Merchants of the City: in the Cloistrie, Chapel and gallary, Knights, Esquires and Gentlemen were placed: in the halls, the Crafts of London: the Sergeants of Law and their wives kept in their own chambers. It were tedious to set down the preparation of fish, flesh, and other victuals spent in this feast, and would seem almost incredible & (as to me it seemeth) wanted little of a feast at a coronation: nevertheless a little I will touch, for declaration of the change of prices. There were brought to the slaughter house 24. great beeves, at 26. shillings, viii. pence the piece from the shambleses, one carcase of an Ox at 24. ●. one hundred fat Muttons, ij. ●x. ●. the piece, 51. great Ueales at iiij. ●. viii. ●. the piece: 34. Porkes iij. ●. viii. ●. the piece, 91. Pigs vj. ●. the piece, Capons of Grece of one Poulter, (for they had three) 10. dozen at xxij. pence the piece, Capons of Kent 9 dozen, and six at xii. ●. the piece, Capon's course 19 dozen at vj. ●. the piece, Cocks of gross 7. dozen and nine at viii. ●. the piece, cocks course 14. dozen and 8. at iij. ●. the piece, Pullet's the best ij●. ob. other Pullet's ij. ●. Pigeous, 37. dozen at x. ●. the dozen, Swans 14. dozen, Larks, 340. dozen at v. ●. the dozen etc. Edward Nevil was Seneshal or stes●ard, Thomas Ratcliff Controller Thomas Wildon, Clerk of the kitchen. Next beyond this Manor of Ely house, is Lither lane, Lither lane. turning into the field. Than is Furnivalles Inn, furnival's Inn an Inn of Chancery. now an Inn of chancery, but sometime belonging to Sir William Furnivall knight, and Thomasin his wife, who had in Oldborne two Messages, and 13. shops as appeareth by Record of Richard the 2. in the sixth of his reign. Than is the Earl of Baths Inn, The Earl of Baths Inn. , now called Bath place, of late for the most part new builded, and so to the Bars. Now again from Newgate on the left hand or South side lieth the Old Bayly, which runneth down by the wall upon the ditch of the City called Hounds ditch to Ludgate: I have not read how this street took that name, but is like to have risen of some Court of old time there kept: and I found that in the 34. of Edward the third the tenement and ground upon Hound's ditch Hound's ditch. between Ludgate on the South, and Newgate on the North was appointed to john Cambridge Fishmonger, Chamberlain The Chamberlains house and court in the old Bayly. of London: whereby it seemeth that the Chamberlains of London have there kept their courts, as now they do by the Guildhall and till this day the Mayor and justices of this City kept their sessions in a part thereof, now called the session's hall, The Session's hall. both for the city of London and shire of Middlesex. Over against the which house on the right hand tuxneth down S. George's lane, S. George's lane an Inn of Chancery there. towards Fleet lane. In this S. George's lane on the North side thereof, remaineth yet an old wall of stone enclosing a piece of ground up Sea-coal lane, wherein by report sometime stood an Inn of Chancery: which house being greatly decayed, and standing remote from other houses of that profession, the company removed to common hosterie, called of the sign, our Lady Inn, not far from Clement's Inn, which they procured from Sir john Fineox, Lord chief justice of the King's bench, and since have held it of the owners by the name of New Inn, Original of new Inn, an Inn of Chancery. paying therefore vi. ●. rend by the year as tenants at their own will: for more (as it is said) cannot be gotten of them, and much less will they be put from it. Beneath this S. George's lane, the lane called Fleet lane windeth south by the prison of the Fleet into Fleetstreet, by Fleet bridge. Lower down into the Old Bayly, is at this present a standard of A standard of spring water in the old Bayly. timber with a cock or cocks, delivering fair spring water to the inhabitants, and is the waist of the water, serving the prisoners in Ludgate. Next out of the high street turneth down a lane, called the little bailie, which runneth down to the East end of S. George's lane. The next is Sea-coal lane, I think called Limeburners lane, Sea-coal lane, or Limeburners' lane, sometime so called. of burning their lime there with sea-coal. For I read in record of such a lane to have been in the parish of S. Sepulchre, and there yet remaineth in this lane an Alley, called Limeburners Alley. near unto this Sea-coal lane in the turning towards Oldborne Conduit is Turne-againe lane, or rather as in a record of the fift of Edward the third, Windagaine lane, Windagaine. lane. for that it goeth down West to Fleet dike, from whence men must turn again the same way that they came, for there it is stopped. Than the high street turneth down Snor hill, Snore hill. to Oldborne Conduit, and from thence to Oldborne bridge, beyond the which bridge on the left hand is Shoe lane, Shoe lane. by the which men pass from Oldborn to Fleetstreet, by the Conduit there. In this Shoe lane on the left hand is one old house called Oldborne hall, Oldborne hall. it is now let out into divers tenements. On the other side at the very corner standeth the parish Church of S. Andrew, Parish Church of S. Andrew in Oldborne. in the which church or near thereunto was sometime kept a Grammar school Grammar school in Oldborne. as appeareth in an other place by a Patent, made as I have showed for the erection of schools. There be Monuments in this Church of an Earl of Southampton buried there Ralph Rokeby, of Lincoln's Inn Esquire, Master of S. Katherine's, and one of the Masters of Requests to the queens Majesty, who deceased the 14. of june 1596. He gave by his testament to Christ's Hospital in London 100 ●. to the College of the poor of Queen Elizabeth in East Greenwich 100 pound, to the poor scholars in Cambridge 100 pound, to the poor scholars in Oxford 100 pound, to the prisoners in the two Compters in London 200. pound, to the prisoners in the Fleet 100 pound, to the prisoners in Ludgate 100 pound, to the prisoners in the kings bench 100 pound, to the prisoners in the Marshalsey an hundred pound, to the prisoners in theWhite Lion 20. pound, to the poor of S. Katherine's, 20. pound, and to every brother and sister there 40. ●. There was also of old time (as I have read in the third of Henry the fift) an Hospital Hospital in Oldborne. for the poor, which was a cell to the house of Clunie in France, and was therefore suppressed among the Priories Aliens. From this Church of S. Andrew up Oldborne hill be divers fair builded houses, amongst this which on the left hand there standeth three Inns of Chancery, whereof the first adjoining unto Crookhorne Alley Crokhorne Alley. is called Thaves' Inn Thavies Inn. & standeth opposite or over against the said Elie house. Than is Feature lane Fewtars' lane. which stretcheth south into Fleetstreet by the East end of S. Dunston's church, and is so called of Fewterers (or idle people) lying there as in a way leading to gardens: but the same is now of later years on both sides builded with many fair houses. Beyond the Fewters lane is barnard's Inn, Barnard's Inn alias Motworth Inn, which is the second Inn of Chancery, belonging to the Dean and Chapter of Lincoln, as saith the Record of Henry the sixth, the 32. of his reign. Than is Staple Inn Staple Inn. the third Inn of Chancery, but whereof so named I am ignorant: the same of late is, for a great part thereof fair builded, and not a little augmented: and then at the bar endeth this Ward without Newgate. But now without Ludgate, on the right hand or North side from the said gate lieth the Old Bailie, as I said: then the high street called Ludgate hill Ludgate hill. down to Fleet lane, in which lane standeth the Fleet, a prison house, so called of the fleet or water running by it. I read that Richard the first in the first of his reign confirmed to Osbert (brother to William Longshampe Chancellor of England and elect of Elie) and to his heirs for ever the custody of his house or palace at Westminster, with the keeping of his jail at London, also King john by his patent dated by third of his reign, gave to S. Archdeacon of Welles, the custody of the said kings house at Westminster, and of his jail of the Fleet, The Fleet or jail in the reign of Richard the first, together with the Wardship of the daughter and heir of Robert Leveland etc. Than the next is Fleet bridge, pitched over the said water. Than also against the South end of Shoe lane standeth a fair water Conduit, whereof William Eastfield sometime Mayor, was founder: for the Mayor and commonalty of London being possessed of a Conduit head, with divers springs of water gathered thereinto in the parish of Paddington, and the water conveyed from thence by pipes of lead towards London unto Teyborne: where it had lain by the space of six years and more: The executors of Sir William Eastfield obtained licence of the Mayor and commonalty, for them in the year 1453. with the goods of Sir William to convey the said waters: first in pipes of lead into a pipe begun to be laid besides the great Conduit head at Marrowbone, which stretcheth from thence unto a seperal late before made against the chapel of Rounsevall by Charing cross, and no further, and then from thence to convey the said water into the city, and there to make receipt or receipts for the same unto, for the weal common of the commonalty, which water was by them brought thus into Fleetstreet to a standard, which they had made and finished 1471. near unto Shoe lane. The inhabitants of Fleetestréete in the year 1478. obtained licence of the Mayor, aldermans and commonalty to make at their own charges two cisterns, the one to be set at the said standard, the other at Fleet bridge Conduit at Fleet bridge. for the receipt of the waste water: this cistern at the standard they builded, and on the same a fair tower of stone garnished with images of S. Christopher on the top, & Angels with sweetsounding bells before them, whereupon by an Engine placed in the tower) they divers hours of the day, and night, with hammers chymed such an hymn as was appointed. This conduit or standard was again new builded with a larger cistern, at the charges of the city in the year 1582. From this Conduit up to Fewters lane and further is the parish church of S. Dunstan, Parish Church of Saint D●nstones. called in the West, (for difference from S. Dunstone in the east) where lieth buried T. Duke Skinner in S. Katherine's chapel by him builded 1421. Ralph Bane Bishop of Coventrie and Lichfield 1559. and other. Next beyond this church is Clifford's Inn, Cliffordes ●● sometime belonging to Robert Clifforde, after whose death Isabella his wife let the same to students of the law, as by the records following may appear: Isabella quae fuit uxor Roberti Clifford, Messuagium uni partium, quod Robertus Clifford habuit in parochia sci. Dunstoni West. in suburbi● Londini, etc. tenuit & illud dimisit post mortem dict. Roberti, apprenticijs de banpro x. l.anuatium etc. Anno 18. Eduardi tertij, inquisitis post mortem Reberti Clifford. This house hath since fallen into the King's hands, (as I have heard) and is now let to the said students for four pound by the year. Somewhat beyond this Cliffords Inn is the South end of New street (or Chancelar lane) New street or Chancellor Lane. on the the right hand whereof is sergeants Inn called in Chancery lane. And then next was sometime the house of the converted jews, founded by king Henry the third, in the year 1233. and the 17. of his reign, who builded there for them a fair church, now used & called the chapel for the custody of Rolls and records of Chancery. It standeth not far from the old temple, but in the midway, between the old Temple and the new, in the which house House of convarts. all such jews and infidels as were converted to the Christian faith, were ordained and appointed (under an honest rule of life) sufficient maintneaunce, whereby it came to pass, that in short time there were gathered a great number of converts, which were baptised, instucted in the doctrine of Christ, and there lived, under a learned Christian appointed to govern them: since the which time, to wit, in the year 1290. all the jews in England, were banished out of the realm, whereby the number of converts in this place was almost decayed: and therefore in the year 1377. this house was annexed by Patent to William Burstall Clerk Custos Rotulorum or keeper of the Rolls of the Chancery by Edward the third in the one and fiftieth year of his reign: and this first Master of the Rolls was sworn in Westminster hall, at the table of marble stone: since the which time, that house hath been commonly called the Rolls in Chancery lane. Rolls in chauncery Lane● Notwithstanding such of the jews or other Infidels as have in this realm been converted to christianity and baptised, have been relieved there: for I found in Record, that one William Piers a jew that became a Christian, was baptised in the fift of Richard the second, and had two pence the day allowed him during his life by the said king. On the West side sometime was an house pertaining to the Prior of Necton Park Prior in Necton park his Inn or house of the six clerk. (a house of Canons in Lincoln shire) this was commonly called Hereflete Inn, and was a Brewhouse, but now fair builded for the six clerk of the Chancery, and standeth over against the said house, called the Rolls, and near unto the lane which now entereth Fickets croft, Fickets croft Shere lane. or Fickets field. Than is Shire lane opening also into Fickets field, hard by the bars. On this North side of Fléetstréet, in the year of Christ 1595. I observed, that when the labourers had broken up the pavement, from against Chancery lanes end, up towards S. Dunston's church, and had digged four foot deep, they found one other pavement of hard stone, more sufficient than the first, and therefore harder to be broken, under the which they found in the made ground, piles of timber, driven very thick and almost close together the same being as black as pitch or coal, and many of them rotten as earth, which proveth that the ground there (as sundry other places of the City) have been a marish or full of springs. Now on the South side from Ludgate be fair builded houses to Fleet bridge, Conduit at Fleet bridge. on the which bridge a Cistern for receipt of spring water was made by the men of Fléetestréete, but the watercourse is decayed and not restored. Next is Bridelane, and therein Bridewell, of old time the kings house: Bridewell the king's house. for the Kings of this Realm have been there lodged, and their Courts of law have been there kept of old time, to wit till the ninth of Henry the third, the Courts were kept in the king's house wheresoever he was lodged, as may appear by ancient records, whereof I have seen many, but as for example I have already set forth one, in the Chapter of Towers and Castles before. Liber Burton snper Trenthan fol. 46. King Henry the eight builded there a stately and beautiful house of new, for receipt of the Emperor Charles the 5. who in the year of Christ 1522. was lodged himself at the Black Friars, but his Nobles in this new builded Bridewell, a Gallery being made out of the house over the water, and through the wall of the City into the Emperor's lodging, at the Black Friars, king Henry himself oftentimes lodged there also, as namely in the year 1525. a Parliament being then holden in the Black Friars, he created States States created at Bridewell. of Nobility there, to wit, Henry Fitz Roy, a child (which he had by Elizabeth Blunt) to be Earl of Nottingham, Duke of Richmont, and of Somerset, Leivetenante General, from Trent Northward, Warden of the East, middle, and West Marches for Anent Scotland. Henry Courtney, Earl of Devonshire, cozen German to the king to be Marquis of Excester, Henry Brandon a child of two years old, son to the Earl of Suffolk, to be Earl of Lincoln: Sir Thomas Mannars, Lord Rose, to be Earl of Rutland, Sir Henry Glifforde to be Earl of Comberlaud, Sir Robert Ratliffe to be Uicont, Fizwater, and Sir Thomas Boloine Treasurer of the kings Household, to be Uicont Rochforde. In the year 1528. Cardinal Campeius was brought to the kings presence being then at Bridewell, whether he had called all his Nobility, judges and Councillors etc. And there the eight of November in his great Chamber he made unto them an oration touching his marriage with Queen Katheren, as ye may read in Edward Hall. In the year 1529. the same king Henry and Queen Katherine were lodged there, whilst the question of their marriage was argued in the Black Friars etc. But now you shall hear how this house became a house of correction. In the year 1553. the seventh of king Edward the sixth, the tenth of April, Sir George Baron (being Mayor of this City) was sent for to the Court at White hall, and there at that time the king gave unto him, for the Commonalty and Citizens to be a work-house for the poor Bridewell given to the City of London, to be a workhouse for the poor. and idle persons of the City, his house of Bridewell, and 700. marks land late of the possessions of the house of the Savoy, and all the bedding and other furniture of the said Hospital of the Savoy towards the maintenance of the said work-house of Bridewell, and the Hospital of S. Thomas in Southwark This gift king Edward confirmed by his Charter, dated the 26. of june next following, and in the year 1555. in the month of February Sir William Gerrarde Maior and the Aldermen entered Bridewell, and took possession thereof according to the gift of the said king Edward, the same was also confirmed by Queen Mary. The Bishop of S. Dauides The Bishop of S. Dauides house. had his Inn over against the north side of this Bridewell (as I have heard.) Than is the parish church of S. Bridget Parish church of S. Bridget. or S. Bride, (as they term it) now a fair church, the which William Venor Esquire, Warden of the Fleet about the year 1480 increased with a large body, and side Isles from the Choir (which of old time was the whole Church) down to the west end, all through this Church builded of his charges is wrought in the stone work, round about both within and without, the figure or likeness of a vine with Clusters of Grapes amongst the leaves etc. The next is Salisbery court a place so called, for that it belonged to the Bishops of Salisbery, The B. of Salisbery his house. and was their Inn, or London house at such time as they were summoned to come to the Parliament, or came for other business, it hath of late time been the dwelling, first of Sir Richard Sakevile, and now of Sir Thomas Sakevile, his son Baron of Buckhurst, one of her majesties most honourable Counsel. Than is Water lane Water lane. running down by the west side of a house called the hanging sword to the Thames. Than was the white friars White Friars. church called Fratres beatae Mariae de monte Carmeli, first founded (saith john Bale) by Richard Grace Ancestor to the Lord Grey Codnor, in the year 1241. King Edward the first gave to the Prior and Brethrens of that house a plot of ground, in Fleetstreet, whereupon to build their house, which was since re-edified or new builded, by Hugh Courtney, Earl of Devonshire, about the year 1350. the 24. of Edward the third, john Lufken Mayor of London, and the Commonalty of the City granted a lane called Crockars lane, Crokars lane reaching from Fleetstreet so the Thames to build in the west end of that Church, Sir Robert Knoles knight was a great builder there also in the reign of Richard the second and of Henry the fourth, he deceased at his Manor of Scone Thorp in Norfolk, in the year 1407. and was brought to London, and honourably buried by the Lady Constance his wife, in the body of the said White friars church, which he had newly builded. Robert Marshal Bishop of Hereforde, builded the Choir, Presbetery steeple, and many other parts, and was there buried about the year 1420. there lieth buried also in the new Choir Sir john Mowbery Earl of Nottingham, Sir Edward Courtney. Sir Hugh Mongomery, and Sir john his Brother, john Wolle, son to Sir john wool, Thomas Bayholt Esquire, Elizabeth Countiss of Athole, Dame johan wife to Sir Thomas Say of Alden, Sir Pence Castle Baron, john Lord Grey son to Regnalde L. Grace of Wilton, 1418. Sir john Ludlow knight, Sir Richard Derois knight, Richard Grace knight, john Ashley knight, Robert Bristol Esquire, Thomas Perry Esquire, Robert Tempest Esquire, William Call, William Neddow. In the old Quire, lie Dame Margaret etc. Elienor Gristles, Sir john Brown knight, and john his son and heir, Sir Simon de Berforde knight, Peter Wigus Esquire, Robert Matthew Esquire, Sir john Skargel knight, Sir john Norice knight, Sir Geffrey Roose knight, Matthew Hadocke Esquire, William Clarel Esquire, john Aprichard Esquire, William Wentworth Esquire,. Thom. Wicham Esquire, Sir Terwhit knight, Sir Stephen Pophan knight, Bastard de Scales, Henry Blunt Esquire, Elizabeth Blunt, john Swan Esquire, Alice Fostar one of the heirs of Sir Stephen Popham, Sir Robert Brocker, knight, john Drayton Esquire, john son to Robert Chanlowes, and his daughter Katherine, john Saluin Esquire, William Hampton Esquire, john Bampton, Esquire, john Wintar Esquire, Edmond Oldhall, William Appleyarde Esquire, Thomas Dabby Esquire, Sir Hugh Courtney knight, john Drury son to Robert Drury, Elizabeth Gemersey Gentlewoman, Sir Thomas Townesend knight, Sir Richard green knight, William Scot Esquire, Thomas Federinghey, I. Fulforde Esquire, Edward Eldsmere Gentleman, W. Hart Gentleman, Dame Mary Senelare, daughter to Sir Thomas Talbot knight, Ancher Esquire, Sir William Moris' knight, & Dame Christian his wife, Sir Peter, de Mota knight, Richard Hewton Esquire, Sir I. Heron knight, Richard Eton Esquire, Hugh Stapleton Gentleman, William Copley Gentleman, Sir Ralph Saintwen knight, Sir Hugh Bromeflete, knight, Lord Vessey principal founder of that order, the sixth of Edward the fourth, etc. This house was valued at 62. ●. 7. ●. 3. ●. & was surrendered the tenth of November, the 30. of Henry the eight. In place of this friars church be now many fair houses builded, lodgings for noble men and others. Than is the Sarieantes Inn, Sarieants' Inn in Fleetstreet. so called for that divers judges and Sarieantes at the Law, keep a Commons, and are lodged there in Term times. Next is the New Temple, New Temple. so called because the Templars before the building of this house, had their Temple in Oldborne. This house was founded by the knights Templars in England, in the reign of Henry the second, and the same was dedicated to God and our blessed Lady, by Heraclius, Patriarch of the Church, called the holy resurrection in Iherusalem, in the year of Christ, 1185. These knights Templars Original of the Thmplars. took their beginning about the year 1118. in manner following. Certain noble men, horsemen, religiously bend, bound by vow themselves in the hands of the Patriarch of Iherusalem, to serve Christ after the manner of Regular Canons in chastity & obedience, and to renounce their own proper wills for ever: she first of which order were Hugh Paganus, and Geoffrey de S. Andomare. And whereas at the first they had no certain habitation, Baldwin king of jerusalem, granted unto them a dwelling place in his Palace, by the Temple, and the Canons of the same Temple, gave them the street thereby to build there in their houses of office, and the Patriarch, the king, the Nobles, and Prelates: gave unto them certain revenues out of their Lordships. Their first profession Profession of the Templars. was for safeguard of the Pilgrims coming to visit the Sepulchre and to keep the high ways against the lying in wait of thieves, etc. About ten years after they had a rule appointed unto them, and a white Habit by Honorius then Pope, and whereas they had been but nine in number, they began to increase greatly. afterward in Pope Eugenius time, they bore crosses of read cloth on their uppermost garments, to be known by from others: and in short time because they had their first mansion hard by the Temple of our Lord in jerusalem, they were called knights of the Temple. Many noble men in all parts of Christendom, became Brethrens of this order, and builded for themselves Temples in every city or great Town. In England this was their cheise house, which they builded after the form of the Temple, near to the sepulchre of our Lord at jerusalem, Matthew Par●s. they had also an other Temple in Cambridge, one other in Bristol, in Canterbury, Dover, Warwick, & others in other places. This Temple in London, was often made a storehouse of men's Treasure, I mean such as feared the spoil there of in other places. Matthew Paris noteth that in the year 1232. Huberte de Burgh Earl of Kent, being Prisoner in the Tower of London, the king was informed that he had much Treasure laid up in his new Temple, under the custody of the Templars, whereupon he sent for the master of the Temple, and examined him straightly, who confessed that money being delivered unto him and his Brethrens to be kept, he knew not how much there was of it, the king demanded to have the same delivered, but it was answered that the money being committed unto their trust, could not be delivered without the licence of him that committed it, to Ecclesiastical protection, whereupon the king sent his Treasurer and justiciar of the Exchequer unto Hubert to require him to resign the money wholly into his hands, who answered that he would gladly submit himself, and all his unto the kings pleasure, and thereupon desired the knights of the Temple in his behalf to present all the keys unto the kings to do his pleasure, with the goods which he had committed unto them. Than the king commanded the money to be faithfully told and laid up in his Treasure, by Inventory, wherein was found (besides ready money) vessels of gold, and silver unpraiseable, and many precious stones which would make all men wonder, if they knew the worth of them. This Temple was again dedicated 1240. belike also newly re-edified then. These Templars at this time were in so great glory, that they entertained the Nobility, foreign Ambassadors, and the Prince himself, very often, insomuch that Matthew Paris crieth out on them for their Pride, who being at the first so poor, as they had but one horse to serve two of them, (in token whereof they gave in their Seal, Seal of the Templars. two men riding upon one horse,) yet suddenly they waxed so insolent, that they disdained other orders, and sorted themselves with Noble men. King Edward the first in the year 1163. taking with him Robert Waleran, and other came to the Temple, where calling for the Keeper of the Treasure house, as if he meant to see his mother's jewels, that were laid up there, to be safely kept he entered into the house, breaking the Coffers of certain persons that had likewise brought their money thither, and he took away from thence to the value of a thousand pound. Many parliaments Parliament at the New Temple. and great Counsels have been there kept as may appear by our histories. In the year 1308. all the Templars in England as also in other parts of Christendom were apprehended and committed to divers prisons, In 1310. a provincial Counsel was holden at London against the Templars, in England, upon heresy, and other Articles whereof they were accused, but denied all except one or two of them, notwithstanding they all did confess that they could not purge themselves fully, as faultless, and so they were condemned to perpetual penance, in several monasteries, where they behaved themselves modestly. Philip king of France procured their overthrow, throughout the whole world, and caused them to be condemned The order of Templars condemned. by a general Counsel to his advantage, as he thought, for he believed to have had all their lands in France, and therefore seized the same into his hands, (as I have read) caused the Templars to the number of four and fifty, (or after Fabian threescore) to be burned at Templars burned. Paris. Edward 2. in the year 1313, gave unto Aimor de Valence, Earl of Pembroke, Robert Fabian. the whole place and houses called the New Temple at London, with the ground called Ficquetes Croft, Pae●nt. and all the tenements and Rents with the Appurtenances that belonged to the Templars in the City of London, and Suburbs thereof. After Aimer de Valence The Temple given to Aimer de Valynce. (sayeth Some) Hugh Spencer, usurping the same held it during his life, by whose death it came again to the hands of Edward the third, but in the mean time to wit, 1324. by a Counsel holden at Vienna, all the lands of the Templars (lest the same should be put to profane uses) were given to the knights Hospitelars of the order of S. john Baptist, called S. john of Iherusalem, Temple given to the Hospitalers of S. john of jerusalem. which knights had put the Turk out of the Isle of Rhodes, and after won upon the said Turk daily for a long time. The said Edward the third therefore granted the same to the said knights, Patent 2. E 3. who possessed it, Clase, 18. E. 3. and in the eighteenth year of the said kings reign, were forced to repair the Bridge of the said Temple. These knights had their head house for England by West Smithfielde, and they in the reign of the same Edward the third granted (for a certain rent of x. pound by the year) the said Temple, The Temple granted to the Students of the Law and made an Inn of Court. with the appertenants thereunto adjoining, to the students of the common Laws of England: in whose possession the same hath ever sithence remained, and is now divided into 2. houses of several students, by the name of Inns of Court, to wit, the Inner Temple and the Middle Temple, who keep two several Hals, but they resort all to the said Temple Church, in the round walk whereof (which is the West part without the Choir) there remaineth monuments Monuments in the Temple Images of knights buried cross legged the cause why. of Noble men there buried, to the number of xi. eight of them are Images of armed Knights, v. lying cross legged, as men vowed to the holy land, against the infidels and unbeleeveing jews: the other three strait legged: the rest are coped stones all of grey Marble: the first of the cross legged was William Martial the elder Earl of Pembroke, who died 1219. William Martial, his son Earl of Penbroke was the second, he died 1231. and Gilbert Marshal his Brother, Earl of Penbroke, slain in a tournament of Hertford, besides Ware, twenty miles from London, was the third he died in the year 1241. After this Robert Rose, otherwise called Fursan, being made a Templar in the year 1245. died and was buried there, and these are all that I can remember to have read of. Sir Nicholas Hare, Master of the Rolls was buried there in the year, 1557. In the year 1581. the Rebels of Essex, and of Kent, destroyed and plucked down the houses and lodgings of this Temple, took out of the Church the books & Records Records of the Temple destroyed and burnt. that were there in Hutches, of the Apprentizes of the Law, carried them into the streets, and there brent them, the house they spoiled and brent for wrath, that they bore Sir Robert halls Lord Prior of S. john's in Smithfielde, but it was since again at divers times repaired, namely the gate house Gate house of the Temple new builded. of the Middle Temple in the r●igne of Henry the eight by Sir Amias Paulet knight, upon occasion as in my Annals I have showed. The great hall Great hall of the Temple new builded. of the Middle Temple, was new builded in the year 1572. in the reign of our Queen Elizabeth. This Temple Church hath a Master, and four stipendary, Priests, with a Clerk, these for the ministration of divine service Order for divine service in the Temple there, have stipends allowed unto them, out of the possessions and revenues of the late Hospital and house of S. john's of jerusalem in England, as it had been in the reign of Edward the sixth, and thus much for the said New Temple the farthest west part of this ward, and also of this City for the Liberties thereof, which ward hath an Alderman, and his Deputies three: In sepulchres parish common Counsel six, Constables four, Scavenger's four, Wardmote inquest twelve: S. Bridgetes parish, common Councillors eight, Constables eight, Scavenger's eight, Wardmote inquest, twenty: in S. andrew's common Council two, Constables two, Scavenger's three, Wardmote inquest twelve. It is taxed to the fifteen in London, at 35. ●. and in the Exchequer at 34. ●. ●0. ●. Bridge ward without (the 26. in number) consisting of the Borough of Southwark in the County of Surrey. Having treated of Wards Bridge ward without. in London, on the North side the Thames (in number 25.) I am now to cross over the said River into the Borough of Southwark, which is also a Ward of London, without the walls, on the south side thereof, as is Portsoken on the East, and Faringdon extra on the West. This Borough being in the county of Surrey, consisteth of divers streets, ways, and winding lanes, all full of buildings, inhabited: and first to begin at the West part thereof, over against the West suburb of the City. On the bank of the river Thames, there is now a continual building of tenements, about half a mile in length to the bridge. Than from the bridge strait towards the South a continual street, called long Southwark, builded on both sides with divers lanes and alleys up to S. George's church, and beyond it through Blackman street, towards new town, (or Newington) the liberties of which Borough extend almost to the parish Church of New town, aforesaid distant one mile from London bridge: and also south-west almost to Lambeth more than one mile from the said bridge. Than from the bridge along by the Thames eastwards is S. Olaves' street S. Olaues street. having continual building on both the sides, with lanes and alleys up to Battle bridge, to Horsedowne, and towards Rother heath: also some good half mile in length from London bridge. So that I account the whole continual buildings on the bank of the said river, from the West towards the East to be more than a large mile in length. Than have ye from the entering towards the said Horsedowne one other continual street called Bermondes' eye street, which stretcheth South, likewise furnished with buildings on both sides, almost half a mile in length, up to the late dissolved Monastery of S. Saviour called Bermondsey. And from thence is one long lane (so called of the length) turning West to Saint George's church afore named. Out of the which late mentioned long lane breaketh one other street towards the South, and by East, and this is called Kentish street, for that it is the way leading into that country: and so have you the bounds of this Borough. The Antiquities most notable in this Borough are these: first for ecclesiastical, there was Beremondsey, an Abbey An Abbey. of black Monks, S. Marry Oueries, a Priory A Priory. of cannons Regular, S. Thomas a college or Hospital A college & Hospital. for the poor, & the Look a Lazar house in Kent street. Parish churches A lazar house Parish churches. there have been 6. whereof 5. do remain viz. S. Mary magdalen's in the Priory of S. Marry Ouerie. Now the same S. Marie Ouery is the parish Church for the said Mary Magdalen, and for S. Margaret on the hill, and is called S. Saviour. S. Margaret on the hill being put down, is now a Court for justice, S. Thomas in the Hospital serveth for a parish Church as afore. S. George a parish church as before it did: so doth S. Olaue, and S. Mary Magdalen by the Abbey of Bermondsey. There be also these five prisons or gaols. The Clinke on the bank. The Compter in the late parish Church of S. Margaret. The Marshalsey. The Kings Bench. And the White Lion, all in long Southwark. Houses most notable be these. The Bishop of Winchester's house. The Bishop of Rochester's house. The Duke of Suffolk's house, or Southwark place. The Tabard, an Hosterie or Inn. The Abbot of Hyde his house. The Prior of Lewes his house. The Abbot of S. Augustine his house. The Bridge house. The Abbot of Battle his house. Battle bridge. The Stews on the bank of the Thames. And the Bear gardens there. Now to return to the West bank, there be the two Bearegardens, The bear Gardens. the old and new places wherein be kept Bears, Bulls, and other beasts, to be baited. As also Mastiffs in several kenels are there nourished to bait them. These Bears and other beasts are there baited in plots of ground, scaffolded about for the beholders to stand safe. Next on this bank was sometime the Bordello (or Stews) a place so called, Liber mane script. of certain stew The stew on the bank side. houses privileged there, for the repair of incontinent men to the like women of the which privilege, I have read thus. In a Parliament holden at Westminster the 8. of Henry the second, it was ordained by the commons and confirmed, by the King and Lords, that divers constitutions for ever should be kept within that Lordship or franchise, according to the old customs that had been there used time out of mind. Amongst the which, these following were some, viz. That no stewholder or his wife should let or stay any single woman to go and come freely at all times when they listed. No stewholder to keep any woman to board, but she to board abroad at her pleasure. To take no more for the woman's chamber in the week than fourteen pence. Not to keep open his doors upon the holy days. Not to keep any single woman in his house on the holy days, but the Bailiff to see them voided out to the Lordship. Not single woman to be kept against her will that would leave her sin. No stewholder to receive any woman of religion, or any man's wife. Not single woman to take money to lie with any man, but she lie with him all night till the morrow. No man to be drawn or enticed into any stewhouse. The Constables, bailiff, and others every week to search every stewhouse. No Stewholder to keep any woman that hath the perilous infirmity of burning, nor to cell bread, ale, flesh, fish, wood, coal or any victuals, etc. These and many more orders were to be observed, upon great pain and punishment: I have also seen divers Patents of confirmation, ●●s. Marry ●bor●m. namely one dated 1345. the nineteenth of Edward the third. Also I found that in the fourth of Richard the second, these Stewhouses belonging to William Walworth then Mayor of London, were farmed by Froes of Flaunders, English people disdained ●o be bawds: ●roes of Flaū●ers were women's for that purpose. and were spoiled by Walter Teighler, and other rebels of Kent: Notwithstanding I find that ordinances for the the same place, and houses were again confirmed in the reign of Henry the sixth to be continued as before. Also Robert Fabian Robert Fabian. writeth that in the year 1506. the 21. of Henry the seventh, the said stewehouses Stewhouses ●ut down by Henry the 7. ●or a time. in Southwark were for a season inhibited, and the doors closed up, but it was not long (saith he) ere the houses there were set open again for so many as were permitted, for (as it was said) whereas before were eighteen houses, from thenceforth were appointed to be used but twelve only. These allowed stewhouses had signs Signs on the stewhouses. on their frontes, towards the Thames, not hanged out, but painted on the walls, as a bears head, the Cross Keys, the Gun, the Castle, the Crane, the Cardinal's Hat, the Bell, the Swan, etc. I have heard ancient men of good credit report, that these single women were forbidden the rights of the Church, Single women forbidden ●ightes of the church. so long as they continued that sinful life, and were excluded from Christian burial, if they were not reconciled before their death. And therefore there was a plot of ground, (called the single woman's Churchyard) appointed for them, far from the parish Church. In the year of Christ 1546. the 37. of Henry the eight, this row of stews in Southwark was put down Stewhouses put down. by the king's commandment, which was proclaimed by sound of Trumpet, no more to be privileged, and used as a common Bordello, but the inhabitants of the same to keep good and honest rule as in other places of this realm etc. Than next is the Clinke, a Jail or prison for the trespassers in those parts, Namely in old time for such as should brabble, frey, break the peace on the said bank, or in the Brothel houses, they were by the inhabitants there about apprehended, and committed to this Jail, where they were straightly imprisoned. Next is the Bishop of Winchester's house, Wincheste house. or lodging, when he cometh to this City: which house was first builded by William Gifford, Bishop of Winchester, about the 1107. the seventh of Henry the first, upon a plot of ground pertaining to the Prior of Bermondsey, as appeareth by a writ directed unto the Barons of the Exchequer, in the year one thousand three hundred sixty six, the one and fortieth year of Edward the third, (the Bishop's Sea being void) for 8. ●. due to the Monks Bermondsey, for the Bishop of Winchester's lodging in Southwark. This is a very fair house well repaired, and hath a large wharf and landing place called the Bishop of Winchester's stairs. Adjoining to this on the South side thereof is the Bishoop of Rochester's Rochester house. Inn or lodging by whom first erected, I do not now remember me to have read, but well I wots the same of long time hath not been frequented by any Bishop, and lieth ruinous for lack of reparations. East from the Bishop of Winchester's house directly over against it, standeth a fair Church, called Saint Mary, over the Rye, or Ouerie, S. Oue●ries a Priory, and now a parish church that is over the water. This Church or some other in place thereof was of old time (long before the conquest) an house of sisters, founded by a maiden named Mary, unto the which house and sisters she left (as was left to her by her parents) the oversight, and profits of a cross ferry or traverse ferry over the Thames, there kept before that any bridge was builded. This house of sisters was after by Swithen, a noble Lady, converted unto a College of Priests, who in place of the ferry builded a bridge of timber, and from time to time kept the same in good reparations, but lastly the same bridge was builded of stone, and then was this church again founded for cannons Regular, by William Pont de le Arch, and William Dauncy, Knights, Normans. William Gifford Bishop of Winchester was a good benefactor also: for he (as some have noted) builded the body of that church in the years 1106. the seventh of Henry the first. The Cannons first entered the said Church then. Liber Rufen. Liber Bermondsey. King Henry the first by his Charter gave them the church of S. Margaret in Southwark. King Stephen confirmed the gift of king Henry, and also gave the stone house, which was Williams de Pont le Arche by Downegate. This Priory was burned about the year 1207. wherefore the Canons did found an Hospital near unto their Priory, where they celebrated until the Priory was repaired: which Hospital was after by consent of Peter de la Roch Bishop of Winchester removed into the land of Anicius Archdeacon of Surrey in the year 1228. a place where the water was more plentiful, and the air more wholesome, and was dedicated to S. Thomas. This Peter de Rupibus, S. Thomas Hospital. or de la Roche founded a large chapel of S. Mary Magdalen Parish church of S. Mary Magdalen. in the said Church of S. Mary Ouery, which Chapel was after appointed to be the parish church for the inhabitants near adjoining. This Church was again newly builded, in the reign of Richard the second and King Henry the fourth. john Gower john Gower was no knight neither had he any garland of ivy & Roses but a Chaplet of four Roses only. a learned Gentleman and a famous Poet, (but no knight as some have mistaken it) was then as especial benefactor to that work, and was there buried on the North side of the said church under a tomb of stone, with his image also of stone lying over him: The hair of his head aburne, long to his shoulders, but curling up, a small forked beard, and on his head a chaplet, like a Coronet of four Roses, thereupon an habit of purple, damasked down to his feet, a collar of Esses gold about his neck, under his head the likeness of three books, which he compiled. The first named Speculum Meditantis, written in French: The second Vox clamantis penned in Latin. The third Confessio Amantis, set forth in English. This Priory was surrendered to Henry the eight, the 31. of his reign, the 27. of October, the year of Christ 1539. and was valued at 624. pound, six shillings six pence by the year. About Christmas next following, the church of the said Priory was purchased of the King by the inhabitants of the Borough. Doctor Stephen Gardiner Bishop of Winchester putting to his helping hand, they made thereof a parish church, Priory of S. Marie Ouery made a parish church. for the parish church of S. Mary Magdalen, on the south side of the said choir, and of S. Margaret on the hill which were made one parish of S. Saviour. There be monuments in this Church of Robert Liliarde or Hiliarde Esquire, Margaret daughter to the Lady Audley, wife to Sir Thomas Audley, Margaret wife to William Greuell Esquire, and one of the heirs of William Spershut Esquire, William Grevel Esquire, Dame Katherine wife to john Stoke Alderman, Robert Merfin Esquire, William Vndall Esquire, Lord Ospay Ferrar, Sir George Brews Knight, john Browne, Lady Brandon, wife to Sir Thomas Brandon, William Lord Scales, William Earl Warren, Dame Maud wife to Sir john Peach, Lewknor, Dame Margaret Elrington, one of the heirs of Sir Thomas Elrington, john Bowden Esquire, Robert, S. Magill, john Sandhurst, john Gower Poet, john Sturton Esquire, Robert Rouse. Now passing through S. Mary Ouers close, S. Marry Ouers Close. (in possession of the Lord Montacute) and Pepper Alley Pepper Alley. into long Southwark, on the right hand thereof the Market hill, where the leather is sold, there stood the late named parish church of S. Margaret, S. Margaret on the hill made a Court of justice. given to S. Mary Oueries by Henry the first, put down and joined with the parish of S. Mary Magdaline, and united to the late dissolved Priory church of S. Mary Ouery. A part of this parish church of S. Margaret is now a Court, & wherein the Assizes & sessions be kept, and the Court of Admiralty Court of Admiralty. is also there kept. One other part of the same church is now a prison called the Compter in Southwark, Compter in Southwark. etc. Farther up on that side, almost directly over against S. George's church was sometime a large and most sumptuous house, builded by Charles Brandon late Duke of Suffolk, in the reign of Henry the eight, which was called Suffolk house, Suffolk house but coming afterwards into the kings hands, the same was called Southwark place, and a Mint A mint in Southwark. of coinage was there kept for the king. To this place came king Edward the sixth, in the second of his reign, from Hampton Court, and dined in it. He at which time made john York one of the Sheriffs of London knight, and then road through the city to Westminster. Queen Mary gave this house to Nicholas Heth Archbishop of York, and to his successors for ever, so be their Inn (or lodging for their repair to London in recompense of York house near to Westminster, which King Henry her father had taken from Cardinal Wolsey, and from the sea of York. Archbishop Heth hath sold the same house to a merchant, or to certain merchants, that pulled it down, sold the lead, stone, iron etc. And in place thereof builded many small cottages of great rents, to the increasing of beggars in that Burrow. The Archbishop bought Norwich house, or Suffolk place, near unto Charing Cross, because it was near unto the Court, and left it to his successors. Now on the south side to return back again towards the bridge. Over against this Suffolk lane is the parish Church of S. George, Parish church of S. George. sometime pertaining to the Priory of Barmondsey, by the gift of Thomas Arderne, and Thomas his son, in the year 1122. There lie buried in this Church William Kerton Esquire, and his wives 1464. Than is the white Lion a jail White Lion a jail for Surrey. so called, for that the same was a common hosterie for the receipt of travelers by that sign: This house was first used as a jail within these forty years last, since the which time the prisoners were once removed thence to an house in Newtowne, where they remained for a short time, and were returned back again to the foresaid White Lion, there to remain as in the appointed jail for the County of Surrey. Next is the jail or prison of the kings Bench, Kings Bench. but of what antiquity the same is I know not. For I have read that the Courts of the King's Bench and Chancery have often times been removed from London to other places, and so hath likewise the gales that serve those courts, as in the year 1304, Edward the first commanded the Courts of the king's Bench and the Exchequer, which had remained seven years at York, to be removed to their old places at London. And in the year 1387. the 11. of Richard the 2. Robert Trasilian chief justice came to the city of Coventry, and there sat by the space of a month, as justice of the king's Benches, and caused to be indited in that Court, about the number of two thousand persons of that country, etc. H. Kinghlon. It seemeth therefore, that for that time, the prison or jail of that court was not far off. Also in the year 1392. the sixteenth of the same Richard, the Archbishop of York, being Lord Chancellor, for good will that he bore to his city, caused the King's Bench and Chancery to be removed from London to York, but ere long they were returned to London. Than is the Marshalsey Marshalsey in Southwark. an other Jail or prison, so called, as pertaining to the marshals of England. Of what continuance kept in Southwark I have not learned: but like it is, that the same hath been removable, at the pleasure of the marshals: for I find, that in the year, one thousand three hundred seventy six, the fiftieth of Edward the third, Henry Percy (being Marshal) kept his prisoners in the city of London, where having committed one john Prendargest, of Norwiche, contrary to the liberties of the City of London, the citizens (by persuasion of the Lord Fitzwalter their Standart-bearer) took Armour and ran with great rage to the marshals Inn, broke up the gates, brought out the prisoner, and conveyed him away, minding to have brent the Stocks in the midst of their city, but they first sought for sir Henry Percy to have punished him, as I have noted in my Annalles. Moore, about the Feast of Easter next following, john Duke of Lancaster, having caused all the whole Navy of England, to be gathered together at London: It chanced a certain Esquire, to kill one of the ship men, which act, the other shipmen taking in ill part, they brought their suit into the king's court of the Marshalsey, which then as chanced (saith mine Author) was kept in Southwark: but when they perceived that Court to be too favourable to the murderer, and further, that the Kings warrant was also gotten for his pardon, they in great fury ran to the house, wherein the murderer was imprisoned, broke into it, Sailors broke up the Marshalsey. and brought forth the prisoner, with his gives on his legs: then thrust they a knife to his heart, and sticked him, as if he had been a Hog, then after this, they tied a rope to his gives, and drew him to the gallows, where when they hanged him, as though they had done a great act, they caused the Trumpets to be sounded before them to their Ships, and there in great triumph they spent the rest of the day. Also the Rebels of Kent, Rebels of Kent broke up the Marshalsey. in the year 1381. brake down the houses of the Marshalsey, and King's Bench in Southwark, took from thence the prisoners, broke down the house of Sir john Imworth, then Marshal of the Marshalsey, and King's Bench, etc. After this, in the year, 1387. the eleventh of Richard the second, the morrow after Bartholomewe day, the King kept a great Council in the Castle of Nottingham, and the Marshalsey of the King, was then kept at Lugborough, by the space of six days or more. In the year 1443. Sir Walter Many was Marshal of the Marshalsey, the twenty two of Henry the sixth. In the year 1504 the prisoners of the Marshalsey (then in Southwark) broke out, and many of them being taken, were executed, especially such as had been committed for Felony or Treason. From thence, towards London Bridge, on the same side, be many fair Inns, for receipt of travelers, by these signs: the Spur, Christopher, Bull, queens head, Tabarde, The tabbard in Southwark. George, Harte, King's head, etc. Amongst the which, the most ancient, is the Tabard, so called of the sign, which (as we now term it) is of a jacquit, or sléeuel●sse coat, whole before, open on both sides, with a square colour, winged at the shoulders: a stately garment of old time, commonly worn of Noble men and others, both at home and abroad in the Wars, but then (to wit in the wars) their Arms embroidered, or otherwise depicte upon them, that every man by his Coat of Arms might be known from others: but now these Tabardes are only worn by the Heralds, and be called their coats of Arms in service: For the Inn of the Tabard, Geffrey Chauser Geffrey Chauser. Esquire, the most famous Poet of England, in commendation thereof, in the reign of E. the 3. writeth thus. It befell in that season, on a day, In Southwark at the Tabart, as I lay, Ready to wend on my Pilgrimage, To Canterbury, with full devout courage: That night was comen into the Hosterie, Well nine and twenty, in a company: Of sundry folk, by adventure yfall, In fellowship, and Pilgrims were they all, That toward Canterbury, woulden ride, The stables and chambers, weren wide And well we were eased, at the best, etc. Within this Inn was also the lodging of the Abbot of Hide, The Abbot of Hid his lodging. (by the City of Winchester) a fair house for him and his train, when he came to the city to Parliament, etc. Than next have ye the Hospital of Saint Thomas, Hospital of S. Thomas. first founded by Richard prior of Bermondsey, in the Selerars ground against the wall of the Monastery, in the year, 1213. he named it the Almerie, or house of Alms, for convarts and poor children, for the which ground, the Prior ordained that the Almoner should pay ten shillings four pence yearly to the Selerar at Michaelmas. year 1428 This Hospital was again new founded, by Peter de Rupibous, S. Thomas Hospital the second time founded. Bishop of Winchester, for Cannons, Regular, in place of the first Hospital: he increased the rent thereof, to three hundredth forty four pound by the year: thus was this Hospital holden of the Prior and Abbot of Bermondsey, till the year, one thousand four hundred twenty eight, at which time a composition was made between Thomas Thetford, Abbot of Bermondsey, and Nicholas Buckland, Master of the said Hospital of Saint Thomas, for all the lands and Tenements which were holden, of the said Abbot and Covent in Southwark, or elsewhere, for the old Rent to be paid unto the said Abbot and Covent. There be the Monuments in this Hospital Church, of Sir Robert Chamber Knight, William Fnes, Lord Say, Richard Chaunar Esquire, john Gloucestar Esquire, Adam Atwoode Esquire, john Warde Esquire, Michael Cambridge Esquire, Wil West Esquire: john Golding Esquire: john Benham Gentleman: George Kirks gentleman: Thomas Knynton gentleman: Thomas Baker Gentleman: Robert son to sir Thomas Fleming: Agnes Wife to Sir Walter Dennis Knight, daughter and one of the h●ires of Sir Robet Danvars: john Euarey Gentleman, etc. This Hospital being in the year 1220. made to dispend three hundred forty four pound by the year, was by the visitors, in the year 1538. valued at 266. pound seventeen shillings 6. pence, and was surrendered to Henry the 8. in the thirtieth of his reign. In the year 1552. the citizens of London, having purchased the void suppressed Hospital, of Saint Thomas in Southwark, in the month of july, began the reparations thereof, for poor, impotent, lame, and diseased people, so that in the month of November next following, the sick and poor people, were taken in. The 3. foundation of S. Thomas Hospital, by the Cititizens of London. And in the year 1553. on the tenth of April, King Edward the sixth, in the seventh of his reign, gave to the Mayor, Commonalty, and citizens of London, to be a workhouse for the poor and idle persons of the city, his house of Bridewell, and seven hundred Marks lands, of the Savoy rends (which Hospital he had suppressed) with all the beds, bedding, and other furniture belonging to the same, towards the maintenance of the said workhouse of Bridewell, and of this Hospital of Saint Thomas in Southwark. Gift of E. the 6. to the Hospital of S. Thomas in Southwark. This gift, the King confirmed by his Charter, dated the twenty six of june, next following, and willed it to be called the King's Hospital in Southwark. The Church of this Hospital, which of old time served for the Tenements near adjoining and pertaining to the said Hospital, remaineth now as it was before, a parish church. But now to come to Saint Olaues street: on the Bank of the river of Thames, is the parish church of Saint Olaue, S. Thomas a parish church. S. Olaues street and parish church. a fair and meetly large church, but a far larger Parish, especially of Aliens or Strangers, and poor people: in which Church, there lieth entombed, Sir john Burcettur Knight, 1466. Over against this Parish Church, on the South side the Street, was sometime one great house builded of Stone, with arched gates, pertained to the Prior of Lewes Prior of lewe his Inn. in Suffex, and was his lodging when he came to London: it is now a common hostery for travelers, and hath to sign, the Walnut-trée. Than East from the said Parish church of Saint Olaue, is a Key, In the year, 1330. by the licence of Simond Swanlond, Mayor of London, builded by Isabella widow to Hamond Goodchepe. And next thereunto, was then a great house, of stone and timber, belonging to the Abbot of Saint Augustin, Abbot of Augustins Inn. without the walls of Canterbury, which was an ancient piece of work, and seemeth to be one of the first builded houses on that side the river, over against the city: It was called the Abbot's Inn of S. Augustine in Southwark, and was sometime holden, of the Earls of Warren and Surrey, as appeareth by a deed, made 1281. which I have read, and may be Englished thus. Wil Thorn. To all to whom this present writing shall come, john Earl Warren, sendeth greeting. Know ye, that we have altogether remised, and quite claimed for us and our heirs for ever, to Nicholas Abbot of Saint Augustine's of Canterbury, and the Covent of the same, and their successors, suit to our court of Southwark, which they own unto us, for all that messsage and houses thereon builded, and all their appurtenances, which they have of our Fee in Southwark, situate upon the Thames, between the Bridge-house, and church of Saint Olaue. And the said messsage, with the buildings thereon builded, and all their appurtenances to them and their successors, we have granted in perpetual alms to hold of us, and our heirs, for the same: saving the service due to any other persons, if any such be, then to us: and for this remit and grant, the said Abbot and covent, have given unto us. 5. shillings of rent yearly in Southwark, and have received us and our heirs in all benefices which shall be in their church for ever. This suit of Court, one William Graspeis was bound to do to the said Earl, for the said messsage: and heretofore to acquit in all things, the church of Saint Augustine, against the said Earl. This house of late time, belonged to Sir Anthony Sentlegar, then to Warham Sentlegar, etc. And is now called Sentlegar house, Sentlegar house. but divided into sundry tenements. Next is the Bridge-house, The Bridge house. so called as being a Store house, for stone, timber, or whatsoever pertaining to the building or repairing of London bridge. This house seemeth to have taken beginning, with the first founding of the bridge either of stone or timber: it is a large plot of ground, on the banque of the River Thames: containing divers large buildings, for stowage of things necessary, towards reparation of the said bridge. There are also divers Garners, for laying up of Wheat, and other grayners for service of the City, as need requireth. Garners for corn in the Bridge-house. Moreover there be certain Ovens builded in number ten: of which six be very large, the other four being but half so big. These were purposely made to bake out the bread corn of the said Grayners, to the best advantage for relief of the poor Citizens, when need should require. Sir john Throstone knight, sometime an Embrotheror, than a Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs, 1516. gave by his Testament towards the making of these Ovens, two hundredth pound, which thing was performed by his Executors. Sir john Monday Goldsmith, then being Mayor: there was of late, for the enlarging of the said Bridge-house, Ovens in the Bridge house. taken in, an old Brewhouse, called Goldings, which was given to the City by George Monex, sometimes Mayor, and in place thereof, is now a fair Brewhouse new builded, A brewhouse builded in the Bridge-house. for service of the City with Beer. next, was the abbot battles Inn, Abbot of Bartaile his Inn. betwixt the Bridge-house, and Battle Bridge, likewise on the banque of the river of Thames: the walks and gardens thereunto appertaining, on the other side of the way, before the gate of the said house, and was called the Maze: There is now an Inn, called the Flower de Luce, for that the sign is three Flower de Luce's. Much other buildings of small tenements are thereon builded, replenished with strangers and other, for the most part poor people. Than is Battle bridge, Battle bridge. so called of Battle Abbey, for that it standeth on the ground, and over a water course (flowing out of Thames) pertaining to that Abbey, and was therefore both builded and repaired, by the Abbots of that house, as being hard adjoining to the Abbot's lodging. Beyond this Bridge, is Bermondsey street, Bermondsey street. turning South, in the South end whereof, was sometime a priory, or Abbey, of Saint saviour, called Bermonds' Eye in Southwark, founded by Alwin Child, a citizen of London, in the year, 1081. Peter, Richard, Obstert, and Vmbalde Monks, de Charitate came unto Bermondsey, in the year 1089. and Peter was made first Prior there, by appointment of the Prior of the house, called Charity in France: by which means, this priory of Bermondsey (being a Cell to that in France) was accounted a priory of Aliens. In the year, 1094. deceased Alwine Child founder of this house. Than William Rufus gave to the Monks, his manor of Bermondsey, with the appurtenances, and builded for them there, a new great church. Robert Blewet, Bishop of Lincoln (King William's Chancellor) gave them the manor of Charlton, with the appurtenances. Also Geffrey Martell, by the grant of Geffrey Magdavile, gave them the land of Halingbury, and the tithe of Alferton, etc. Moore, in the year 1122. Thomas of Arderne and Thomas his son, gave to the Monks of Bermonds' Hid of Southwark to the Monks of Bermondsey. Eye, the Church of Saint George in Southwark, etc. In the year, 1165. King Henry the second, confirmed to them the hide or territory of Southwark, and Laygham Wadden, with the land of Coleman, etc. In the year 1371. the priories of Aliens, through out England, being seized into the King's hands, Richard Denton an English man, was made Prior of Bermondsey: To whom was committed the custody of the said priory, by the letters patents of king E. the 3. saving to the king, the advowsons of churches. In the year, 1380. the 4. of Richard the 2. this priory was made a Dinison (or free English) for the fine of 200. Bermonds' Eye made an Abbey. Marks, paid to the king's Hanaper in the Chancery. In the year, 1399. john Attelborough, prior of Bermondsey, was made the first Abbot of that house, by Pope Boniface the ninth, at the suit of King Richard the second. In the year, 1417. Thomas Thetford Abbot of Bermondsey, held a Plea in the Chancery against the King, Abbot of Bermondsey held I'll against the King, and prevailed. for the manors of Preston, Bermondsey, and Stone, in the County of Summerset, in the which suit the Abbot prevailed, and recovered against the King. In the year, 1539. this Abbey was valued to dispend by the year, four hundred seventy four pound fourteen shillings four pence half penny, and was surrendered to Henry the eight, the one and thirtieth of his reign: the Abbey church was then pulled down, by sir Thomas Pope Knight, and in place thereof, a goodly house builded of stone and timber, now pertaining to the Earls of Sussex. There are buried in that church, Sir William Bowes knight, and Dame Elizabeth his wife. Sir Thomas Pikeworth Knight: Dame Anne Audley: George, son to john Lord Audley. john Winkefield Esquire. Sir Nicholas Blonket knight. Dame Bridget, wife to William Trussell. Holgrave Baron of the Exchequer, etc. Next unto this Abbey church, standeth a proper church of S. Mary Magdalem, Pariw Church of Saint Mary Magdalen. builded by the priors of Bermondsey, serving for the resort of the inhabitants, (tenants to the Prior, or Abbots near adjoining) there to have their divine service: this church remaineth and serveth as afore, and is called a Parish church. Than in Kent street is a lazar house, The Look a Lazar house in Kent street. for Leprous people: called the Look in Southwark: the foundation whereof I find not. Now having touched divers principal parts of this Borough, I am to speak somewhat of government, and so to end. This Borough upon petition made by the citizens of London, Liberties of Southwark, farmed by the Citizens of London. to Edward the first, in the first year of his reign, was for divers causes, by Parliament, granted to them for ever, yielding into the Exchequer the Fee firm, of ten pound by the year: which grant was confirmed by Edward the 3. who in the third of his reign, gave them licence to take a toll towards the charge of paving the said Borough with stone. Southwark first paved. Henry the fourth confirmed the grant of his predecessors: so did Edward the 4. etc. But in the year 1550. King Edward the 6. for the sum of six hundredth forty seven pound two shillings and one penny, paid into his court of Augmentations, & revenues of his crown, granted to the Mayor and Commonalty, all his lands & tenements in Southwark, Liberties of Southwark purchased. except & reserved the capital messsage, two mansions called Southwark Place, late the Duke of Suffolk's, and all the gardens and lands to the same appertaining: the Parks and the messsage called the Antilope. Moreover, he gave them the Lordship and Manor of Southwark, The Lordship and Manor of Southwark pertaining to the Monastery of Bermondsey. with all members and rights thereof, late pertaining to the Monastery of Bermondsey. And all Messages, places, buildings, rents, Courts, Waffes and streyes, to the same appertaining, in the County of Surrey, except as is before except. He also granted unto them, his Manor & Borough of Southwark, The King's Manor, Borrow of Southwark. with all the members, rights & appurtenances, late of the possession of the Archbishop of Canterbury & his sea, in Southwark. Moreover for the sum of 500 Marks, he granted to the said Mayor and Commonalty, and their successors, in and through the Borough and Town of Southwark: And in all the Parishes of S. Saviour, S. Olaue, and S. George, and the Parish of S. Thomas Hospital, now called the King's Hospital: And elsewhere in the said Town and Borough of Southwark, and Kentish street, Bermondsey street, in the Parish of Newington, All Waiffes and streyes, treasure trove, All felons goods, etc. within the parishes and precinct aforesaid, etc. The return of writs, processes, and warrants, etc. together with a fair in Fair in Southwark. the whole Town, for three days: to wit, the 7. 8. and 9 of September, yearly, with a Court of Pye-powders: A view of Frank pledge, with Attachments, Arrests, etc. Also to arrest all Felons, and other Malefactors, within their precinct, and sand them to Ward, and to Newgate. Provided that nothing in that grant should be prejudicial to the Steward and Marshal of the King's house. The same premises to be holden of the Manor of East Greenwich, in the County of Kent, by fealty in free socage. Dated at Westminster the 23. day of April, in the 4. of his reign. All which was also confirmed by Parliament, etc. And the same year in the Whitsun week, in a Court of Aldermen, kept at the guildhall of London, Sir john Aylophe Knight, was sworn the first Alderman First Alderman of Southwark. of the Bridge Warde without, and made up the number of 26. Aldermen of London. Borough of Southwark, one of the Wards of London. This Borough at a subsidy to the king, yieldeth about 1000 Marks, or 800. pounds, which is more than any one City in England pay●th, except the City of London. And also the Muster of men Muster of men in Southwark in this Borough, doth likewise in number surpass all other cities, except London. And thus much for the Borough of Southwark: one of the 26. Wards of London: which hath an Alderman. Deputies 3. and a Bailiff. Common Council none. Constables 16. Scavingers 6. Wardmote Inquest 20. And is taxed to the fifteen, at 17. li. 17. s.8.d. The Suburbs without the Walls of the City, briefly touched. As also without the Liberties, more at large described. Having spoken of this city, the original, and increase, by degrees. The Walls, Gates, Dich, Castles, Towers, Bridges, the Schools and Houses of learning. Of the Orders and Customs, Sports and Pastimes. Of the honour of Citizens, and worthiness of the men. And last of all, how the same City. is divided into parts and Wards. And how the same be bounded. And what Monuments of antiquity, or Ornaments of building be in every of them, as also in the Borough of Southwark. I am next to speak briefly of the Suburbs, as well without the gates and walls, as without the Liberties. And of the Monuments in them. Concerning the estate of the Suburbs of this City, in the reign of H. the 2. Eitz Stephens Fitz Stephens. hath these words. Upwards on the West (saith he) is the King's Palace, which is an incomparable building, rising with a Uawmure & Bulwark. Aloft upon the river, two miles from the wall of the city, but yet conjoined with a continual Suburb. On all sides, without the houses of the Suburbs, are the citizens Gardens and Orchards, planted with trees, both large, sightly, and adjoining together. On the North side, are pastures, & plain meadows, with brooks running through them, turning water mills, with a pleasant noise. Not far off, is a great Forest, A well wodded Chase, having good covert for Hearts, Bucks, Does, Boors, and wild bulls. The corn fields are not of a hungry sandy mould, but as the fruitful fields of Asia: yielding plentiful increase, and filling the barns with corn. There are near London on the North side, especial wells in the Subburbes, sweet, wholesome, and clear. Amongst which, Holywell, Clarkenwell, and S. Clemons well, are most famous, and most frequented, by scholars & youths of the city in Summer evenings, when they walk forth to take the air. Thus far out of Fitz Stephen, for the Subburbes at that time. Libar albo. The 2. year of H. the 3. the Forest of Midlesex, and the Warren of Stanes were disafforested: since the which time, the Suburbs about London hath been also mightily increased with buildings: for first, to begin in the East, by the Tower of London, Subburbe with out the Postern by the Tower of Lon. Wapping in the Whose. is the Hospital of S. Kathren, founded by Matilde the Queen, wife to King Stephen, as is afore showed in Porsoken Warde, from this Precinct of Saint Kathren, to Wapping in the Whose, and Wapping itself, (the usual place of Execution for the hanging of Pirates and sea Rovers, at the low water mark, and there to remain, till three Tides had overflowed them) and never a house standing within these forty years, but is now made a continual street, or rather a filthy strait passage, with Lanes and Allies, of small Tenements inhabited by sailors, and Uictuallers, along by the River of Thames, almost to Radliffe, a good mile from the Tower. Now on the East side, and by North of the Tower, lieth East-Smithfield, Hog's street, and Tower hill: and East from them both, was the New Abbeycalled Grace, founded by Edward the third. From thence towards Radliffe, up East Smithfielde, by Nightingale Lane Nightingale Lane. (which runneth South by the Hermitage, The hermitage by S. Kathrens'. Villa Estsmith field and Villa de Brambly. to Wapping) to the manner of Brambley, called in the records of Richard the second, Vila East Smithfield, and Villa de Brambley. Not far from thence, of very late, (where of old time, stood the manor of Shadwell, Manor of Shadwell. belonging to the Dean of Paul's, there have been raised many small Tenements towards Radliffe: Radliffe. and Radliffe itself, hath been so increased in building Eastward (in place where, I have known fair hedges, long rows of Elm, and other trees) that the same have now taken hold of Lime hur'st, Limehurst. (or Lime host itself) commonly called Lime house, sometime distant a mile from Radliffe, etc. Now for Tower hill: Tower Hall without the Walls. the plain there, is likewise greatly diminished, by incrochments for building of small tenements, and taking in of garden plots, timbaryars, or what they list. From this Tower Hill towards Aldegate, (being a long continual street) amongst other buildings, was that Abbey of Nuns, called the Minorities, or Minories, whereof I have spoken. And on the other side of that street, lieth the Ditch, without the wall of the City, from the Tower unto Aldegate. From Aldegate East, Suburb without Aldegate. again lieth a large street, replenished with buildings: to wit, on the North side, the parish church of Saint Buttolphe, and so other buildings to Hog Lane, and to the Bars on both the sides. Also without the Bars, both the sides of the street be pestered with Cottages & Allies, even up to white Chapel church: and almost half a mile beyond it, into the common field: all which aught to lie open & free for all men. But this common field, I say, being sometimes the beauty of this City on that part, is so encroached upon by building of filthy Cottages, and with other prepesterous like enclosures and Laystalles, (that notwithstanding all Proclamations and Acts of Parliament made to the contrary) that in some places it scarce remaineth a sufficient high way for the meeting of Carriages and droves of cattle, much less is there any fair, pleasant, or wholesome way for people to walk on foot: which is no small blemish to so famous a city, to have so unsavoury and unseemly an entry or passage thereunto. Now of white Chaple Of white Chapel. Church somewhat, & then back again to Aldegate. This church is as it were a chapel of ●ase, to the parish of Stebinhithe, and the Parson of Stebinhithe hath the gift thereof: which being first dedicated to the name of God, and the blessed Virgin, is now called S. Mary Matfellon, S. Marry Matfellon. upon this occasion following. About the year 1428. the 6. of King H. the 6. A devout Widow A devout widow murdered of that parish had long time cherished, and brought up of Alms, a certain Frenchman or Briton borne, which most unkindly & cruelly, in a night murdered the said widow sleeping in her bed, and after fled with such jewels & other stuff of hers as he might carry: but he was so freshly pursued, that for fear he took the church of S. George in Southwark, and challenged privilege of Sanctuary there, and so abjured the Kings land. Than the Constables (having charge of him) brought him into London, intending to have conveyed him Eastward) but so soon as he was come into the Parish, where before he had committed the murder, the wives cast upon him so much filth and ordure of the street, that (notwithstanding the best resistance made by the Constables,) they slew him out of hand: And for this fact, that Parish purchased the name of Mary Matfellon. Now again from Algegate, Northwest to Bishop's gate, Suburb with-Bishops gate. lieth Howndes Ditch, and so to Bishop's gate. North and by East from Bishop's gate, lieth a large street or high way, having on the West side thereof, the Parish church of S. Buttolphe. Than is the Hospital of S. Mary of Bethelem, founded by a citizen of London, as before is showed. Thence up to the Bars, and to Norton fall gate Nortonfall gate. (a liberty so called, belonging to the Dean of Paul's. Thence also up to the late dissolved Priory of S. john Baptist, called Holywell, Priory of Saint john Baptist at Holywell. a house of Nuns, of old time founded by a Bishop of London: re-edified by Sir Thomas Lovel, brought up in Lincolne● Inn, who builded much there. And in this place, in the reigns of H. the 7. and H. the 8. he endowed this house with fair lands, and was there buried in a large chapel by him builded for that purpose. This Priory was valued at the suppression, to have of lands 293. li. by year, and was surrendered 1539. in the 31. of H. the 8. The church thereof being pulled down, many houses have been their builded for the lodgings of Noble men, of strangers borne, and other. And near thereunto, are builded two public houses for the acting and show of Comedies, Tragedies, and Histories, for recreation. Whereof the one is called the Courtein, The Courtin. the other the Theatre: The Theatre. both standing on the south-west side towards the field. From Hollywell in the high street, is a continual building of Tenements to Sors Ditch, or Sewers Ditch, saving one small side of a field, already made a Garden plot. Over against the North corner of this field, between it and the church of S. Leonarde in Soersditch, sometime stood a Cross, now a Smiths Forge, A Cross at Soersditch, now a Smiths Forge. dividing three ways: forth right the high way, is builded upon either side, more than a good flight shot, towards King's Land, Newington, Tottenham, etc. On the left hand is Ealdestréete, which reacheth West to a stone Cross, over against the North end of Grubstréete, and so to the end of Goswell street. On the right hand of this Ealdestréete, not far from Soars Ditch, but on the North side thereof is Hoxton, Hoxton. a long street, with houses on both sides, and is a Prebend belonging to Paul's church in London, but of Soars ditch parish. On the right hand beyond Soersditch Church toward Hackney, are some late builded houses upon the common soil (for it was a Laystall) belonging to the Parish of Stebinhithe. On the other side of the high way, from Bishopsgate and Hownsditch, the first building is a large Inn for receipt of travelers: then a fair house lately builded by the Lord john Powlet. Next to that, a large house, with Gardens of pleasure, builded by jasper Eisher. From this up to the West end of Hog Lane, is a continual building of small cottages. Than was the Hospital called Saint Mary Spittle, hard within the Bars, whereof I have spoken, in Bishopsgate Ward. From the which Bars towards Soersditch, is all along a continued building of small and base Tenements, for the most part lately erected. Amongst the which (I mean of the ancientest buildings) was one row of proper small houses Alms houses in Soersditch. with Gardens for poor decayed people, there placed by the Prior of the said Hospital: every one Tenant whereof, paid one penny Rend by the year at Christmas: and dined with the Prior on Christmas day: but after the suppression of the Hospital, these houses (for want of reparations) in few years were so decayed, that it was called Rotten Row: Rotten Row, or Russel Row. and the poor worn out (for there came no new in their place) the houses were sold from Goddard, to Russell a Draper, who new builded them, and let them out for Rent enough, taking also large Fines of the Tenants, (which some think to be near as much as the houses cost him in the purchase, and building: for he made his bargains so hardly with all men, that both Carpenter, Bricklayer, and Playsterer, were by that work utterly undone. And yet in honour of his name, it is now called Russels row. Now for the Parish of S. Leonards at Soersditch, Parish Church of S. Leonard, at Soersditch. the Archdeacon of London, is always Parson thereof, and the Cure is served by a Uicure. In this Church have been divers honourable persons buried, as appeareth by their Monuments Monuments defaced. yet remaining. Notwithstanding that of late, one Uicure there for covetousness of the brass which he converted into coined silver, plucked up many plates fixed on the graves, and left no memory of such as had been buried under them: A great injury both to the living and the dead, forbidden by public proclamation, in the reign of our sovereign Lady the Queen that now is: but not forborn by many, that either of a preposterous zeal, or of a greedy mind, spare not to satisfy themselves, by so wicked means. Now will I pass through the Hospital of S. Mary Bethelem, into Moor field, which lieth without the Postern called Mooregate. Suburb wit●● out the Postern of Mor●●gate. This field of old time was called the Moor. As appeareth by the Charter of William Conqueror, to the College of S. Martin: declaring a running water to pass into the City from the same Moor. Also Fitz Stephen writeth of this Moor, saying thus. When the great Fen or Moor, which watereth the walls on the North side is frozen, etc. Fensberry fields, & Mor●●fields, an unprofitable ground. This Fen or Moor field, stretching from the wall of the city, betwixt Bishopsgate and the Postern called Cripples gate, to Fensberry, and so to Holywell, continued a waste and unprofitable ground, a long time, so that the same was all let for four Marks the year, in the reign of Edward the 2. But in the year 1415. the 3. of Henry the 5. Thomas falconer Mayor, as I have showed, caused the wall of the City to be broken toward the said Moor, and builded the Postern called Mooregate, for the ease of the Citizens, to walk that way upon Causwayes into the fields towards Iseldon and Hoxton. Moreover, he caused the Ditch of the City, and other Ditches thereabout, to be new cast and cleansed, by mean whereof, the said Fen or Moor was greatly drained and dried. And shortly after, to wit, 1477. Ralph joceline Mayor, for repairing of the wall of this City, caused the said Moor to be searched for Clay and Brick to be brent there, etc. by which means this field was made the worse for a long time. In the year 1498. all the Gardens which had continued time out of mind, without Mooregate, Gardens without Mooregate, destroyed and made plaingrounde. to wit, about, and beyond the Lordship of Fensberry, were destroyed. And of them was made a plain field for Archers so shoot in. And in the year 1512. Roger Archley Mayor, caused divers Dikes to be cast, and made to drene the waters of the said Moor fields, Ditches cast to drain the Moor Field. with Bridges Arched over them, and the grounds about to be leveled, whereby the said field was made somewhat more commodious, but yet it stood full of noisome waters: Wherepon in the year 1527. Sir Thomas Semor Mayor, caused divers Slewces Slewces to convey the standing water out of the Moor. to be made, to convey the said waters, over the Town Ditch, into the course of Walbrooke, and so into the Thames: and by these degrees, was this Fen or Moor, at length made main and hard ground, which before being overgrown with Flags, Sedges, & Rushes, served to no use, since the which time, also the further grounds beyond Fensbury Court, have been so overheigthned with Laystalles of dung, that now three windmills are thereon: Moorefielde raised, & windmills set thereon. the ditches be filled up, and the bridges overwhelmed. And now concerning the enclosures of common grounds about this city: Edward Hall setteth down a note of his time, to wit, in the 5. or rather the sixth of Henry the eight. Before this time saith he, the inhabitants of the Towns about London, as I●eldone, Hoxton, Shorsdich and others, had so enclosed the common fields with hedges, and ditches, that neither the young men of the city might shoot, nor the ancient persons walk for their pleasures in those fields, Edward Hall. but that either their Bows and Arrows were taken away or broken, or the honest persons arrested or indited: Saying, that no Londoner aught to go out of the City, but in the high ways. This saying so grieved the Londoners, that suddenly this year, a great number of the City, assembled themselves in a morning, and a Turner in a fools coat, came crying through the city, shovels and spades, shovels and spades: so many of the people followed, that it was a wonder to behold: and within a short space all the hedges Hedges pulled down and ditches filled up. about the City were cast down, and the ditches filled up, and every thing made plain, such was the diligence of these workmen. The king's counsel hearing of this assembly, came to the grey Friars, and sent for the Mayor, and council of the city, to know the cause, which declared to them, the injury and annoying done to the citizens, and to their liberties, which though they would not seek disorderly to redress, yet the commonalty and young persons could not be stayed, thus to remedy the same: when the king's counsel had heard their answer, they dissimuled the matter, and commanded the Mayor to see that no other thing were attempted, but that they should forthwith call home the younger sort: who having speedily achieved their desire, returned home before the King's Council, and the Mayor departed without more harm, after which time (saith Hall,) these fields were never hedged, but now we see the thing in worse case than ever, before it was by the means of enclosure for gardens, Banqueting houses like Bankrupt bearing gre●● show and li●● worth. wherein are builded many fair Summer houses, and as in other places of the Suburbs, some of them like Midsummer Pageants, with Towers, Turrets and Chimney tops, not so much for use, or profits, as for show and pleasure, bewraying the vanity of many men's minds, much unlike to the disposition of the ancient Citizens, who delighted in the building of Hospitals, and Alms houses for the poor and therein both employed their wits, and spent their wealths in preferment of the common commodity of this our City. But to come back again to Moregate and from thence west through a narrow lane called the Postern, because it hath at either end a door to be shut in the night season, betwixt the Moore ditch enclosed with brick for Teyntar yards, and the Gardens of the said Moore field, to Moore lane: a part of the Suburb, without cripples gate, Suburb without Cripple gate. and without this Postern called Cripples gate, also lay a part of the said Moore even to the river of the Wells (as in another place I have showed) and no houses were there builded, till the later end of the reign of William the Conqueror and the reign of his son William Rufus, about which times some few houses being there builded along east and west thwart before the said gate. One Alfune builded for the Inhabitants a parish Church which is of S. Giles Parish church of S. Giles. somewhat west from the said gate, on the bank of the Town ditch, and so was there a street since called Forstreete, as standing before the gate. This Alfune in the reign of Henry the first became the first Hospitaler of S. bartilmew's Hospital in Smithfielde, as in another place I have noted. And this Parish church of S. Giles being at the first a small thing stood in place where now standeth the vicarage house: but hath been since at divers times much enlarged according as the parish hath increased, and was at the length newly builded in place where now it, standeth. But the same new church being large, strongly builded and richly furnished with ornaments, was in the year 1545. sore brent and consumed, notwithstanding it was again within a short space of time restored as now it showeth. Some little distance from the east end of this Church, standeth a fair Conduit castellated in Forstreete. Than had ye a Boss of sweet water in the wall of the Church yard now lately made a Pump, but already decayed. Than had ye a fair Pool of sweet water near to the Church of S. Giles wherein Anne of Lodbery was drowned as I have before declared. In the east end of Forestreete is Moore lane, than next is Grubstreete, of late years inhabited (for the most part by Bowyers, Fletchers, Bowstring makers, and such like, occupations, now little occupied, Archery giving place to a number of Bowling Allies and dicing houses in all places are increased, and too much frequented. This street stretcheth north to Euerades well street Euerades well street. which thwarteth it to White Cross street, the next from Forestreete North is White Cross street, likewise extending itself up to the west end of Euerades well street, and from the end thereof to Ealdstreete. From the west end of Forstreete lieth Read cross street from the which Cross on the right hand east lieth Bech lane, and reacheth to the White cross street. From that Cross north lieth Golding lane Golding lane. which stretcheth up to a Cross in Ealdestreete which Golding lane on both the sides is replenished with many tenements of poor people. On the left hand and west of the Read Cross lieth a street of old time, called Hounds ditch, and of later time named Barbican, of such cause as I have before noted. And thus have you all the suburb without Cripplegate being almost altogether in the parish of S. Giles which hath more than 1800. Householders, and above 4000 Communicantes. Without Aldersgate on the left hand is the parish Church of S. Buttolph on the north side of the which church lieth a way called Little Britain street, towards the Priory of Saint Bartholomew in Smithfielde, but the high way without Aldersgate Suburb without Aldersgate runneth strait north from the said gate unto Hounds ditch or Barbican street on the right hand, and Long lane of the left hand which runneth into Smithfielde. Than from the farther end of Aldersgate street, strait north to the Bar is called Goswell street replenished with small tenements, Cottages and Allies, Gardens banqueting houses, and Bowling places. Beyond these Bars, leaving the Charterhouse on the left hand or the west side the way stretcheth up towards Iseldon, and on the right hand, or east side at a read Cross turneth into Ealdstreet Ealdstreete. (so called, for that it was the old high way from Aldersgate street for the North-east parts of England before Bishopsgate was builded) which street runneth East to a Smiths Forge, sometime ● Cross before Shoreditch Church from whence the Passengers and Carriages were to turn North to kings land, Tottenham, Waltham, Ware, etc. There was sometime in this suburb without Aldersgate an Hospital Hospital without Aldersgate. for the poor, but an Alien of Clunie, a French order and therefore suppressed by king Henry the fift, who gave the house with lands and goods, to the parish of S. Buttolph and a Brotherhood of the Trinity was there founded which was afterward suppressed by Henry the eight or Edward the sixth. There is at the farthest north corner of this Suburb a windmill which was sometime by a Tempest of wind overthrown and in place thereof a Chapel was builded by Queen Katherine (first wife to Henry the eight,) who named it the mount The Mount. of calvary, because it was of Christ's passion, and was in the end of Henry the eight pulled down, and a Windmill newly set up as afore. Without Newgate lieth the west, and by North Suburb, Suburb without Newgate. on the r●ght hand or Northside whereof betwixt the said gate and the Parish of S. Sepulchre turneth a way towards west Smithfielde, called as I have showed Giltspurre street, or Knightridars, street, then is Smithfielde itself compassed about with buildings as I have before declared in Faringdon ward without. And without the Bar of west Smithfield lieth a large street or way called of the house of S. john the●e S. john's street S. john's street Charterhouse and stretcheth toward Iseldon, on the right hand whereof stood the late dissolved Monastery, called the Charter house founded by Sir Walter Many knight, a stranger borne Lord of the town of Many in the Diocese of Cambrey, beyond the seas, who for service done to king Edward the third was made knight of the Garter. This house Charterhouse he founded upon this occasion, a great Pestilence entering this Island, began first in Dorset shire, then proceeded into Devonshire, Somerset shire, Gloucester shire, and Oxford shire, and at length came to London, and overspread all England, so wasting the people, that scarce the tenth person of all sorts was left alive, and Churchyards were not sufficient to receive the dead but men were forced to choose out certain fields for burials, whereupon Ralph Stratforde Bishop of London, in the year 1348. bought a piece of ground called no man's land, Not man's land which he enclosed with a wall of Brick and dedicated for burial of the dead, builded thereupon a proper Chapel, which is now enlarged and made a dwelling house, as this burying plot is, became a fair Garden, retaining the old name of Pardon Church yard. pardon church yard by the Charterhouse. After this in the year 1349. the said Sir Walter Many in respect of danger that might befall in this time of so great a plague and infection, purchased thirteen acres and a road of ground adjoining to the said no man's land, and lying in a place called Spittle Crossed, because it belonged to S. bartilmew's Hospital, since that called the New Church Haw, and caused it to be consecrated by the said Bishop of London, to the use of Burials. In this plot of ground there was in that year more than 50000. persons buried, as I have read in the Charters of Edward the third: Also I have seen and read an inscription fixed on a stone cross, sometime standing in the same Church yard and having these words: Anno Domini 1349. regnant magna pestilentia consecratum fuit hoc coemiterium, in quo & infra septa presentis m●nasterii sepulta fuerunt mortuo●um corpora plusquam quinquaginta millia, praeter alia multa abhinc, usque ad presence, quorum animabus propitietur Deus, Amen. In consideration of the number of Christian people here buried, the said Sir Walter Many caused first a Chapel to be builded, where for the space of 23. years offerings were made, and in the year 1371. he caused there to be founded an house of Carthusian Monks, which he willed to be called the Salutation, and that one of the Monks should be called Prior, and he gave them the said place of thirteen Acres and a Road of land with the Chapel, and houses there builded for their habitation: But the three Acres of land lying without the walls on the north part betwixt the lands of the abbot of Westminster, the lands of the Prior of S. john, (which three Acres were purchased, enclosed and dedicated by Ralph Stratforde Bishop of London, as is afore showed,) remained till our time, by the name of Pardon Church yard, & served for burying of such as desperately ended their lives, or were executed for Felonies, who were fetched thither usually in a close cart, veiled over and covered with black, having a plain white Cross thwarting, and at the fore end a S. john's Cross without, and within a Bell ringing whereby the Cart might be heard when it passed, and this was called the Frery Cart, which belonged to S. john's, and had the privilege as Sanctuary. In this Charter house be the monuments of the said Sir Walter Many and Margaret his wife, Marmeduke Lumley, Laurence Brumley, knight, Sir Edward Hederset knight, Sir William Many knight, Dame jahan Borough john Door, Want water knight, Robert Olney Esquire, Katheren daughter to Sir William Babington knight, Blanch daughter to Hugh Warerton, Katherine wife to john at Poote daughter and heir to Richard Lacie, William Rawlin, Sir john Lenthaine and Dame Margaret his wife, daughter to john Fray, john Peake Esquire, William Baron, and William Baron Esquire, Sir Thomas Thawites knight. In the Cloystrie monuments of Bartilmew Reed knight, Mayor of London, buried 1505. Sir john Popham etc. This Monastery at the suppression in the 29. of Henry the 8. was valued at 642 ●. four pence halfpenny yearly. A little without the Bars of west Smithfielde is Charter house lane Charter house lane. so called, for that it leadeth to the said plot of the late dissolved monastery in place whereof, first the Lord North, but since Thomas Howard late Duke of Norfolk, have made large and sumptuous buildings both for lodging and pleasure. At the gate of this Charterhouse Conduit by the Charterhouse. is a fair water Conduit with two Cocks serving the use of the neighbours to their great commodity. Saint john's street from the entering this lane is also on both the sides replenished with buildings up to Clarken well. On the left hand of which street lieth a lane called Cow cross, Cow Crosse. of a cross sometime standing there, which lane turneth down to another lane called Turnemill street which stretcheth up to the west side of Clarken well, and was called Turnemill street, for such cause as is afore declared. One other lane there is called S. Peter's lane, which turneth from S. john's street to Cow Crosse. On the left hand also stood the late dissolved Priory of S. john of jerusalem Priory of S. john of jerusalem. in England, founded about the year of Christ, 1100. by Iorden Brise's Baron and Muriell his wife, near unto Clerks well besides w●st Smithfielde, which Brian having first founded the Priory of Nuns at Clerks well bought of them ten acres of land, giving them in exchange ten acres of land in his Lordship of Welling hall in the County of Kent, S. john's church was dedicated by Eraclius Patriarch of the whole resurrection of Christ at jerusalem, in the year 1185. and was the chief seat in England of the religious knights of S. john of jerusalem, whose profession was beside their daily service of God to defend Christians against Pagans', and to fight for the Church, using for their habit a black upper garment, with a white cross on the fore part thereof, and for their good service was so highly esteemed, that when the order of Templars was dissolved, their lands & possession● were by Parliament granted unto these, who after the loss of jerusalem recovered the Isle of Rhodes from the Turk, and there placed themselves, being called thereof for many years knights of the Rhodes, but after the loss thereof 1523. they removed to the Isle of Malta, manfully opposing themselves against the Turkish invasions. The Rebels of Essex and of Kent 1381, set fire on this house, causing it to burn by the space of seven days together, not suffering any to quench it, since the which time the Priors of that house have new builded both the Church and houses thereunto appertaining, which church was finished by Thomas Docwrey late Lord Prior there, about the year 1504 as appeareth by the inscription over the Gate house, yet remaining, this house at the suppression in the 32. of Henry the eight, was valued to dispend in lands 3385. ●. 19. ●. 8. ●. yearly, Sir William Weston being then Lord Prior, died on the same seventh of May, on which the house was suppressed, so that great yearly pensions being granted to the knights by the king, and namely to the Lord Prior during his life 1000 ●. he never received penny. The king took into his hands all the lands that belonged to that house and that order wheresoever in England, and Ireland, for the augmentation of his Crown. This Priory Church and house, of S. john was preserved from spoil, or down pulling, so long as king Henry the eight, reigned, and was employed as a store house for the kings toils and tents, for hunting, and for the wars etc. but in the third of king Edward the sixth, the Church for the most part, to wit the body and side Isles with the great Bell Tower (a most curious piece of workmanship, graven, guilt, and enameled to the great beutifiing of the City, and passing all other that I have seen) was undermined and blown up, with Gunpowder, the stone thereof was employed in building of the Lord Protectors house at the Strand: that part of the Choir which remained with some side Chapels, was by Cardinal Poole in the reign of Queen Mary, closed up at the west end, and otherwise repaired, and Sir Thomas Tresham knight was then made Lord Prior there, restitution of some lands, but the same was again suppressed in the first year of Queen Elizabeth. There was buried in this Church Brethrens of that house, & knights of that order, William Begecote Richard Barrow john Vanclay, Thomas Launcelen, john Mallore, William Turney, William Hulles, Hills, or Hails, john Weston, Redington William Longstrother, john Langstrother, William Tong, john Wakeline. Than of other Thomas Thornburgh Gentleman, William West Gentleman, john Fulling, and Adam Gill esquires, Sir john Mortimer and Dame Elinor his wife, Nicholas Siluerston, William Plompton Esquire, Margaret Tong, and Isabel Tong, Walter Bellingham, alias Ireland, king of Arms of Ireland, Thomas Bedle Gentleman, Katheren daughter of William Plompton Esquire, Richard Turpin Gentleman, johan Wife to Alexander Dikes, john Bottle, and Richard Bottle esquires, Rowland Darcie, Richard Sutton Gentleman, Richard Bottill Gentleman, Sir William Harpden knight, Robert Kingston Esquire, and Margery his wife, john Roch, Richard Cednor Gentleman, Simon Mallory Esquire, 1442. William Mallorie Esquire, Robert Longstrother Esquire, Ralph Asteley Esquire, William Martial, Esquire, Robert Savage Esquire, Robert Gondall Esquire, and Margery his wife, William Babthorpe Baron of the Exchequer 1442. Beyond this house of S. john's north from the house was the Priory of Clarken well so called of Clerks well adjoining, which Priory was also founded about the year 1100. by Iorden Briset Baron the son of Ralph, the son of Brian Bryset: who gave to Robert a Priest, fourteen Acres of land lying in the field next adjoining to the said Clerks well, Priory of Clarken well. thereupon to build an house of religious persons, which he builded to the honour of God, and the Assumption of our Lady, and placed therein Black Nuns, this Iorden Briset gave also to that house one piece of ground, thereby to build a Windmill upon etc. he and Muriall his wife were buried in the Chapter house there, and there lie buried in this Church john Wikes Esquire, and Isabella his wife, Dame Agnes Clifforde, Ralph Timbleby Esquire, Dame jahan baroness of Greystocke, Dame jahan Lady Ferrars etc. This house was valued to dispend 262. ●. 19. ● by year, and was surrendered in the 31. of Henry the eight. Many fair houses for Gentlemen and others, are now builded about this Priory, especially by the high way towards Iseldon. So much of the Church which remaineth, (for one great Isle thereof fell down) serveth as a Parish church of S. john, for not only the tenements and near inhabitants, but also (as is afore said for all up to Highgate, Moswell etc. Near unto this Church besides Clerks well, lie divers other wells, as I told you, namely Skinners well, Fags well, Todewell, Loders well, Redewell etc. Now to return again to Giltspurre street where I first began with this suburb, there standeth the parish church of Saint Sepulchre in the Bailie, as is before showed, from this street to Turnagaine lane by Hosiar lane, Cow lane & Holborn conduit down Snore hill to Oldborne bridge, and up to Oldborne hill, by Gold lane on the right hand, and Lither lane beyond it, up to the Bars, beyond the which bars on the same side is port Poole lane or Grey's Inn lane, Port Poole or Grey's Inn lane. so called of the Inn of Court; Grey's Inn an Inn of Court. named Greyes Inn, a goodly house there situate, by whom builded or first begun I have not yet learned, but seemeth to be since Edward the thirds time, and is a prebend to Paul's Church in London. This lane is furnished with fair buildings, and many tenements on both the sides, leading to the fields, towards Highgate and Hamsted. On the high street have ye many fair houses builded, and lodgings for Gentlemen, Inns for travelers, and such like up almost (for it lacketh but little) to S. Giles in the fields: amongst the which buildings for the most part being very new, one passeth the rest in largeness of rooms lately builded, by a widow Widow Alington her building. sometime wife to Richard Allington Esquire, which Richard Allington deceased in the year 1561. And thus much for that North side of Oldborne. Now from Newgate on the left hand or south side lieth the Old bailie, and so down by sea-coal lane end to Oldborne bridge, up Oldborne South side of Oldborne. hill, by Shoe lane and Fewters lane to the bars. Beyond the Bars had ye in old time a Temple builded by the Templars, whose order first began in the year of Christ 1118. in the 19 of Henry the first. This temple was left and fell to ruin since the year 1184. when the Templars had builded them a new Temple in Fléetstréet, near to the river of Thames. A great part of this old Temple was pulled down but of late in the year 1595. The same was after the Bishop of Lincoln's Inn, where he lodged when he repaired to the City, and john Russell Bishop in Lincoln, The Bishop of Lincoln's Inn in Oldborne. Lord Chancellor in the reign of Richard the 3. was lodged there. It hath of late years belonged to the Earls of Southampton, and is therefore called Southamton Southampton house. house. One Master Roper hath of late builded there, by means whereof, part of the ruins of the old Temple were seen to remain builded of Cane stone, round inform as the new temple by Temple bar. Beyond this Southampton house is New street, so called in the reign of Henry the 3. when he founded the house of Conuertes, betwixt the Old Temple and the new. The same street hath sithence been called Chancery lane, Newstreet or Chancery lane by reason that king Edward the third annexed the house of Converts by Patent to the office of Custos Rotulorum, or master of the Rolls, in the 15. of his reign. In this street the first fair building to be noted on the East side, is called the Coursitors office, Coursitors office in Chancery lane. builded with divers fair lodgings for Gentlemen, all of Brick and timber, by Sir Nicholas Bacon late Lord Keeper of the great seal, deceased in the year 1578. near unto this Coursitors Office be divers fair houses and large gardens builded and made in a ground, sometime belonging to one great house on the other side the street there made by Ralph Nevell Bishop of Chichester. Than was the house of Converts wherein now the Rolls of Chancery be kept. Than the sergeant Inn. On the West side towards the North end thereof was of old time the church and house of the preaching Friars: Black friars Church in Oldborne. the which house I find that in the year of Christ 1221. the Friars preachers 13. in number came into England, and having to their Prior one named Gilbert de Fraxineto, in company of Peter de la Roche Bishop of Winchester, came to Canterbury, where presenting themselves before the Archbishop Stephen, he commanded the said Prior to preach, whose sermon he liked so well, that ever after he loved that Order. These Friars came to London, and had their first house without the wall of the City by Oldborne, near unto the old Temple. Hubert de Burgo Earl of Kent was a great benefactor unto these Friars, and deceasing at his Manor of Bansted in Surrey, or (after some writers) at his Castle of Barkamsted in Hartfordshire, in the year 1242. was buried in their Church, unto the which Church he had given his place at Westminster, which the said Friars Earl of Kent buried in the Black Friars. afterward sold to Walter Grey Archbishop of York, & he left it to his successors in that Sea, for ever to be their house when they should repair to the City of London. And therefore the same was called York Place, which name so continued until the year 1529. that King Henry the eight took it from Thomas Wolsey Cardinal, and Archbishop of York, and then gave it to name White hall. Margaret sister to the king of Scots, widow to Geffrey Earl Marshal deceased 1244. and was buried in this church. In the year 1250. the Friars of this order of preachers through Christendom and from jerusalem, were by a Convocation Convocation of black Friars in Oldborne. assembled together, at this their house by Oldborne to entreat of their estate, to the number of 400. having meat and drink found them of alms, because they had no possessions of their own. The first day the king came to their Chapter, found them meat and drink and dined with them. another day the Queen found them meat and drink: afterward the Bishop of London, than the Abbot of Westminster, of S. Alban's, Waltham, and others. In the year 1276. Gregory Rokesley Mayor, and the Barons of London granted and gave to Robert Kilwerbie Archbishop of Canterbury, two lanes, or ways next the street of Baynard's Castle, and the Tower of Mountfichet, to be destroyed. On the which place the said Robert builded the late new church, with the rest of the stones that were left of the said Tower. And thus the black Friars left their Church and house by Oldborne, and departed to their new. This old Friar house (juxta Holborn saith the Patent) was by King Edward the first, in the 16. of his reign given to Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln. Next to this house of Friars, was one other great house, sometime belonging to the Bishop of Chichester, whereof Matthew Paris writeth thus: Ralph de Nova villa or Nevil, Bishop of Chichester, Bishop of chichester's Inn. and Chancellor of England sometime builded a noble house, even from the ground not far from the new Temple, and house of Conuertes, in the which place he deceased in the year 1244. In this place after the decease of the said Bishop, and in place of the house of Black Friars, before spoken of, Henry Lacie Earl of Lincoln, Lycons' Inn. Constable of Chester, and Custos of England, builded his Inn, and for the most part was ●lodged there: he deceased in this house in the year 1310. and was buried in the new work, (whereunto he had been a great benefactor) of S. Paul's church betwixt our Lady Chapel, and S. Dunston's Chapel. This Lincoln's Inn sometime pertaining to the Bishops of Chichester as a part of the said great house, is now an Inn of Court, retaining the name of Lincoln's Inn as afore, but now lately increased with fair buildings, and replenished with Gentlemen studious in the common laws: this house was greatly increased with new buildings. In the reign of Henry the eight Sir Thomas Lovel was a great builder there, especially he builded the gate house and forefront towards the east, placing thereon aswell the Lacy's arms, as his own: he caused the Lacy's arms to be cast and wrought in lead, on the lover of the hall of that house, which was in the 3. Escutcheons, a Lion rampant for Lacie, 7. Masculles voided for Quincie, and 3. Lincoln's Inn an Inn of Court. Wheat sheaves for Chester. This Lover being of late repaired the said Escutcheons were left out. The rest of that side even to Fléetstreet is replenished with fair buildings. Now the high Oldborne street, from the North end of New-street, stre●cheth on the left hand in building lately framed, up to S. Giles in the field, which was an Hospital founded by Matilde the Queen, wife to Henry the first, about the year 1117. This Hospital (saith the record of Edward the third the 19 year) was founded without the bar veteris Templi London conversorum. Moreover (saith the same Record) in the 20. of Edward the third, the said King sent commandment under his great seal, to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London, Hospital of S. Giles founded for leprous persons of the city of London and shire of Middlesex. willing them to make proclamation in every Ward of the City and suburbs, that all leprous persons, within the said City & suburbs should avoid within fifteen days, and that no man suffer any such laprose person to abide within his house, upon pain to forfeit his said house, and to incur the kings farther displeasure. And that they should 'cause the said Lepers to be removed into some out places of the fields, All leprous heople to be voided the city & suburbs. from the haunt or company of all sound people: whereupon it followed that the citizens required of the Guardian of Saint Giles Hospital, to take from them and to keep continually the number of fourteen persons, according to the foundation of Matilde the Queen which was for leprous persons of the City of London and the shire of Middlesex. Patent. W. Dunthorne At this Hospital the prisoners conveyed towards Tyburn, there to be executed, were saluted with a Bowl of Ale, thereof to drink as their last refreshing in this life. Now without Ludgate lieth the south end of the old bailie, then down Ludgate hill by Fleet lane over Fleet bridge, up Fléetstréet by Shoe lane, Fewters lane, Newstréet, or Chancery lane & to Shire lane by the bar on the right hand. And from Ludgate Suburb without Ludgate. on the left hand or south side by Bride lane, Water lane, Crokers' lane, sergeants Inn, and the new Temple by the Bar, all which is of Faringdon Ward, as is afore showed. Liberties of the Duchy. NExt without the bar and liberty of the city of London and the liberties of the Duchy of Lancaster, Without the bar of the City, called Temple bar, and first of the Duchy of Lancaster. on the said south side or left hand near unto the River of Thames, amongst other buildings memorable for greatness, the first was Excester house, so called for that the same belonged to the Bishop of Excester, and was their Inn or London lodging: the same hath been sithence called Paget house, because the Lord William Paget enlarged and possessed it. Than is Leycester house so named because Robert Dudley late Earl of Leycester, of late new builded there. And now Essex house, Excester house since Leycester house, now Essex house. of the late Earl of Essex there inhabiting. Than west was a Chapel dedicated to the Holy Ghost, called S. Spirit, chapel of S. Spirit. upon what occasion founded I have not read. Than is Milford lane Milford lane. down to the Thames, why so called I have not heard nor can conjecture. Than was the Bishop of Baths Inn, Bishop of Baths Inn, or Arundel house. lately new builded, for a great part thereof by the Lord Thomas Seamer Admiral, which came sithence to be possessed by the Earl of Arondell, and thereof called Arundel house. Next beyond the which on the street side, was sometime a fair Cemitorie (or Churchyard) and in the same a parish Church, Parish church of S. Mary at the strand. called of the nativity of our Lady, and the innocents at the Strand, and of some, by mean of a brotherhood kept there, called of S. Ursula at the Strand. And near adjoining to the said church, betwixt it and the river of Thames, was an Inn of Chancery, commonly called Chosters' Inn Chester's Inn or Strand Inn an Inn of Chancery. (because it belonged to the Bishop of Chester) by others named of the situation Strand Inn. Than had ye in the high street a fair bridge called Strande bridge, Strand bridge. and under it a lane or way down to the landing place on the bank of the Thames. Than was the Bishop of Chester's Inn, The Bishop of Chester's Inn. or his London lodging. And next adjoining to it the Bishop of Worcester's Inn: The Bishop of Worcester's Inn. all which to wit, the parish of Saint Mary at Strande, Strand Inn, Strand bridge, with the lane under it, the Bishop of Chester's Inn, the Bishop of Worcester's Inn, with all the tenements adjoining were by commandment of Edward Duke of Somerset uncle to Edward the sixth, and Lord Protector, pulled down, and made level ground, in the year 1549. In this place whereof he builded that large and goodly house, now called Somerset house. Somerset house. In the high street near unto the Strande sometime stood a cross of stone against the Bishop of Coventrie or Chester his house, whereof I read, that in the year 1294. and divers other times, the justices itinerants, sat without London, at the stone cross over against the Bishop of Coventries' house, and sometime they sat in the Bishop's house, which was hard by the Strand. Stone cross at Strand. Than next is the Savoy so called of Peter Earl of Savoy, and Richmond, Savoy house first builded by Peter Earl of Savoy & Richmond. son to Thomas Earl of Savoy, brother to Boniface Archbishop of Canterbury, and uncle unto Helenor wife to king Henry the third. He first builded this house in the year 1245. and here is some occasion offered to prove that this Peter of Savoy was also Earl of Savoy. Wherhfore out of a book of the Genealogies of all the whole house of Savoy, compiled by Phillebert Pingonio, Baron of Guzani, remaining in the hands of W. Smith, alias Rongedragon officer of arms, I have gathered this. Thomas Earl of Savoy Thomas Earl of Savoy his pedegrie by occasion. had issue by Beatrix daughter to Aimon Earl of Geneva 9 sons, & 3. daughters: Amades his first son succeeded Earl of Savoy in the year 1253. Peter his second son, Earl of Savoy, and of Richmond, in 1268. Philip his third son Earl of Savoy and Burgundy, 1284. Thomas the 4. Earl of Flaunders and prince of Piemon, Boniface the eight, Archbishop of Canterbury, Beatrix Beatrix sister to Peter Earl of Savoy, mother to five Queens. his daughter married so Reymond Beringarius of Arragon, Earl of Province and Narbone, had issue, & was mother to five Queens: The first Margaret wife to Lewes' king of France, 2. Elinor wife to Henry the 3. King of England: 3. Sanctia, wife to Richard king of Romans'. 4. Beatrix, wife to Charles king of Naples. 5. johanna, wife to Philip king of Navarre. To return again to the house of Savoy, Queen Eleanor wife to king Heury the third, purchased this place afterwards of the fraternity Fra●res de monte iovis or Priory de Cornuto by ●auering at the boowre. or brethren of Montioy (unto whom Peter as it seemeth gave it) for her son Edmond Earl of Lancaster (as M. Camden hath noted out of a register book, of the Dukes of Lancaster, H. Knighton● Henry Duke of Lancaster repaired or rather new builded it with the charges of ● 2000 Marks, which money he had gathered together at the town of Bridgerike. john the French King was lodged there, in the year 1357. and also in the year 1363. for it was at that time the fairest Manor in England. In the year 1381. H. Knighton● the rebels of Kent and Essex burned this house, unto the which there was none in the realm to be compared in beauty, and stateliness (saith mine Author.) They set fire on it round about, and made Proclamation that none (on pain to loose his head) should convert to his own use any thing that there was, Savoy brent blown up with Gu●● powder. but that they should break such plate and vessel of Gold and silver, as was found in that house, (which was in great plenty) into small pieces and throw the same into the river of Thames: Rebels more malicious than covetous, spoil all before them. Precious stones they should bruise in mortars that the same might be to no use: and so it was done by them: One of their companiens they burned in the fire, because he minded to have reserved one goodly piece of plate. They found there certain barrels of Gunpowder, which they thought had been Gold or silver, Liber mane script, french. and throwing them into the fire, more suddenly than they thought, the Hall was blown up, the houses destroyed, and themselves very hardly escaped away. This house being thus defaced and almost overthrown by these rebels for malice they bore ●o john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster of later time came to the King's hands, and was again raised and beautifully builded, for an Hospital of S. john Baptist, by king Henry the seventh, about the year 1509, for the which Hospital (retaining still the old name of Savoy Savoy builded for an Hospital. ) he purchased lands to be employed upon the relleving of an hundred poor people: This Hospital being valued to dispend 529. pound, fifteen shillings etc. by year, was suppressed the tenth of june, the seventh of Edward the sixth: the beds, bedding and other furniture belonging thereunto, with seven hundred marks of the said lands by year, he gave, to the Citizens of London, with his house of Bridewell, to the furnishing thereof, to be a workhouse for the poor and idle persons, and towards the furnishing of the Hospital of S. Thomas in Southwark lately suppressed. Hospital of Savoy suppressed. This Hospital of Savoy Hospital of Savoy a new foundation ●hereof. was again new founded, erected, corporated and endowed with lands by Queen Mary, the third of November: in the fourth of her reign one jackson took possession, and was made master thereof in the same month of November. The Ladies of the Court, and Maidens of honour (a thing not to be forgotten) stored the same of new with veddes, bedding and other furniture, in very ample manner etc. and it was by patent so confirmed at Westminster the ninth of May the fourth and fift of Philip and Mary. The Chapel of this Hospital serveth now as a Parish church to the tenements thereof near adjoining and others. The next was sometime the Bishop of Carlisle's his Inn, which now belongeth to the Earl of Bedford, & is called Russell or Bedford house. Parish church of S. john in the Savoy. B. of Carlisle his Inn or Bedford house It stretcheth from the Hospital of Savoy, West to ivy bridge. And thus far on this South side the high street is of the liberty of the Duchy of Lancaster. ivy bridge ivy bridge. in the high street hath a way or low going down under it, stretching to the Thames: the like as sometime had the Strand bridge before spoken of. This whole street The street betwixt Temple Bar and the Savoy first paved the 24. of Henry the 6. from Temple Bar to the Savoy was commanded to be paved, and Tole to be taken towards the charges thereof in the 24. year of Henry the sixth. Now to begin again at Temple Bar over against it. In the high street standeth a pair of Stocks, and then one large middle Row of houses and small Tenements builded partly opening to the south, partly towards the North. Amongst the which standeth the Parish church of S, Clement Danes Parish church of S. Clement Danes. so called because harold a Danish king and other Danes were buried there, and in that Churchyard, This Harolde whom king Canutus had by a Concubine, reigned three years and was buried at Westminster, but afterward Hardicanutus the lawful son of Canutus, in revenge of a displeasure done to his mother by expelling her out of the Realm, and the murder of his Brother Alured, commanded the body of Harold to be digged out of the earth and to be thrown into the Thames, where it was by a Fisherman taken up, and buried in this Churchyard. This said Middle Row of houses stretching west to a stone Cross now headless, Heedless cross by the Strand by or against the Strand including the said parish Church of S. Clement, is wholly of the liberty of Duchy of Lancaster, which liberty is governed by the Chancellor of that said Duchy, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. now at this present, Sir Robert Cecil knight principal Secretary to her Majesty, and one of her majesties most Honourable privy Councillors, there is under him a Steward that keepeth court and Leete for the Queen, giveth the charge and taketh the oaths of every under Officer, then is there four Burgesses, and 4. Assistants to take up Controversies, a Bailiff which hath two or three under Bailiffs that make Arrests within that liberty, 4. Constables, four Wardens that keep the Lands and Stock for the poor, four Wardens, for high ways, a jury or Inquest of fourteen or sixteen to present defaults, four Alecunners which look to assisse of weights and measures, etc. four Scavenger's and a Beadle, and their common Prison is Newgate. Thus much for the Suburb in the Liberty of the Duchy of Lancaster. The City of Westminster, with the Antiquities, Bounds, and Liberties thereof. NOw touching the City of Westminster, I will begin at Temple Bar, on the right hand or Northside, and so pass up west, through a Back lane or street, wherein do stand three Inns of Chancery the first is called Clementes Inn, Clement's Inn of Chancery. because it standeth near to S. Clementes church, but nearer to the fair fountain called Clementes well, Clement's well. the second is New Inn New Inn of Chancery. so called, as Lateliar made an Inn of Chancery for students, than another, to wit, about the beginning of the reign of Henry the seventh, and not so late as some have supposed, to ●●tte at the pulling down of Strand Inn in the reign of King Edward the sixth: for I read that Sir Thomas Moor sometime Lord Chancellor was a student in this New Inn, and went from thence to Lincoln's Inn etc. The third is Lion's Inn, lions Inn of Chancery. an Inn of Chancery also. This street stretcheth up unto Drury lane, Druery lane. so called, for that there is a house belonging to the Family of the Druries. This lane furneth North toward S. Giles in the field, from the south end of this lane in the high street are divers fair buildings, Hosteries, and houses for Gentlemen, and men of honour, amongst the which Cecile house Cecil house. is one, which sometime belonged to the Parson of S. Martin's in the field, and by composition came to Sir Thomas Palmer knight in the reign of Edward the sixth, who began to build the fame of Brick, and Timber, very large and spacious, but of later tune it hath been far more bewtifully increased by the late Sir William Cecile Baron of Burghley, Lord Treasurer, and great Councillor of the estate of England. From thence is now a continual new building of divers fair houses even up to the Earl of Bedfords house, Bedford house which is a goodly house, lately builded nigh to ivy Bridge, over against the old Bedforde house, namely, called Russell house and Dacres house, now the house of Sir Thomas Cecile Lord Burghley, and so on the North side to a lane that turneth to the Parish Church of S. Martin in the field, Parish church of S. Martin in the field. and stretcheth to S. Giles in the field. Than had ye the Chapel of our Lady Chapel of our Lady in the Pew an house belonging to Bethlen. called the Pew, with an house wherein sometime were distraight and Lunatic people. Amongst other things of this Chapel I have read that on the 17. of February in the year of Christ 1452. by negligence of a scholar appointed by his Schoolmaster, to put forth the lights of this Chapel, the Image of our Lady Chapel of our Lady the Pew brent. richly decked with jewels, precious stones, pearls, and rings (more than any jeweller could judge the price) (for so sayeth mine Author) was with all this apparel, ornaments and Chapel itself brent. john Piggot. Than is the Mewse The Meuse by Charing Crosse. so called of the kings Faulchons there kept by the kings Falconer, which of old time was an office of great account, as appeareth by a Record of Richard the second, in the first of his reign, for Sir Simon Burley knight, was made Constable for the Castles of Windsor, Wigmore and Guilforde, and of the Mavor of Kenington, and also Master of the kings Falcons, at his Mewse near unto Charing Cross by West. Of later time king Henry the eight having fair stabling there for horses in the year 1534. and the 28. of his reign, it was burned with many great houses and much hay ● therein: The Meuse burned. but it was again re-edified in the reigns of king. Edward the sixth, and Queen Marie, and this is the farthest building westward, on the northside of that high street. On the southside of the which street, in the Liberties of Westminster (beginning at ivy bridge) first is Durham house, builded by Thomas Hatfielde Bishop of Durham, The Bishop of Durhams' house. who was made Bishop of that See in the year 1345. and sat Bishop there 36. years. Amongst matters memorable concerning this house, this is one, In the year of Christ 1540 the 32. of Henry the eight, on May day a great and triumphant justing justing feast at Durham house. was holden at Westminster, which had been formerly proclaimed in France, Flanders, Scotland, and Spain, for all comers that would undertake the challengers of England, which were Sir john Dudley, Sir Thomas Seymar Sir Thomas Ponings, and Sir George Carew knights, and Anthony Kingston, and Richard Crumwell esquires, at which came into the Lists that dayrichly appareled and their horses trapped all in white Velvet, there came against them the said day 46. defendants or Undertakers uzthe Earl of Surrey foremost, Lord William Howard, Lord. Clinton, and Lord Cromwell, son and heir to Thomas Cromwell Earl of Essex, and Chamberlain of England with other, and that day after the Iustes performed the Challengers road unto this Durham house where they kept open household, and feasted the king and Queen with her Ladies and all the Court, the second day Anthony Kingston, and Richard Cromwell were made knights there, the third day of May the said challengers did Tourney on horseback with sword, and against them came 49. defendants: Sir john Dudley, and the Earl of Surrey running first, which at the first course lost their Gauntletes: and that day Sir Richard Cromwell overthrew master Palmer and his horse in the field to the great honour of the challengers, the ●●ft of May the Challengers fought on foot at the Baryars, and against them came 50. Def●ndantes, which fought valiantly: but Sir Richard Cromwell overthrew that day at the Barryars' master Culpepper in the field, and the sixth day the challengers broke up their household. In this time of their housekeeping they had not only feasted the king, Pencione●s. Queen, Ladies and all the court, as is afore showed, but also they cheered all the knights and Burgesses of the common house in the Parliament, and entertained the Mayor of London with the Aldermen and their wives at a Dinner etc. The king gave to every of the said challengers, and their heirs for ever, in reward of their valiant activity one hundred marks and a house to devil in of yearly revenue out of the lands pertaining to the Hospital of S. john of jerusalem. Next beyond this Durham house is one other great house sometime belonging to the Bishop of Norwitch, The Bishop of Norwitch his house. and was his London lodging, which now pertaineth to the Archbishop of York by this occasion. In the year 1529. when Cardinal Wolsey Archbishop of York was indited in the Premunirey, whereby king Henry the eight was entitled to his goods and possessions: he also seized into his hands, the said archbishops house, commonly called York place, and changed the name thereof into White hall whereby the Archbishops of York being dispossessed and having no house of repair about London, Queen Marie gave unto Nicholas Heth then Archbishop of York and to his successors, Suffolk house in Southwark, lately builded by Charles Bramdon Duke of Suffolk, as I have showed. This house the said Archbishops sold, and bought the aforesaid house of old time belonging to the Bishops of Norwich, which of this last purchase is now called York house, the Lord Chancellors, or Lord Keepers of the great Seal of England, have been lately there lodged. Than was there an Hospital of S. Marie Rounceval Hospital of S. Marie Rouncivall. by Charing Cross (a Cell to the Priory & Covent of Rounceval in Navarre in Pampelion Diocese) where a Fraternity was founded in the 15. of Edward the fourth, but now the same is suppressed and turned into tenements. Near unto this Hospital was an Hermitage, with a Chapel of S. Katherine Hermitage with a Chapel of S. Katherine. over against Charing Cross, Charing cross which Cross builded of stone, was of old time a fair piece of work there made by commandment of Edward the first, in the one and twentieth year of his reign, in memory of Helenor his deceased Queen as is before declared. West from this Cross stood sometime an Hospital of Saint james, Hospital of S. james. consisting of two hides of Land with the appurtenances in the parish of Saint Margaret in Westminster, and founded by the Citizens of London, before the time of any man's memory, for fourteen sister's maidens that were leprous, living chastened, and honestly ●●diuine service. Afterwards divers Citizens of London, gave six and fifty pound rend thereunto, and then were adjoined eight Brethrens to minister divine service there. After this also sundry devout men of London gave to this Hospital four hides of land in the field at Westminster, and in Hendon, Calcote, and Hampsted, eighty ● of ●ande ● Wood etc. king Edward the first, confirmed those gifts and granted a Fair to be kept on the Eu● of S james, S. james Fair for 7. days. the day, the morrow, and four days following, in the eighteenth of his reign. This Hospital was surrendered to Henry the eight the three and twentieth of his reign, and the Sisters being compounded with all were allowed Pensions for term of their lives, and the king builded there a goodly Manor, annexing thereunto a Park, S. james Park closed about with a wall, of brick now called S. james park serving indifferently to the said Manor, and to the Manor or Palace of White hall. South from Chating Cross on the right hand, are divers fair houses lately builded before the Park, than a large Tyltyarde for Noble men, Tilt yard at Westminster. and other to exercise themselves in justing, Turning, and fighting at the Barryars. On the left hand from Charing Cross, be also divers fair, tenements lately builded till ye come to a large plot of ground enclosed with brick, and is called Scotland, Scotland a plot of giound so called. where great building hath been for receipt of the kings of Scotland, and other estates of that Country: for Margaret Queen of Scots and Systar to king Henry the eight had her abiding there, when she came into England after the death of her husband, as the king of Scotland, had in former times, when they came to the Parliament of England. Than is the said White hall White hall. sometime belonging to Hubart de Brugh Earl of Kent, and Iustici●● of England, who gave it to the Black Friars in Oldborne as I have before noted. King Henry the eight ordained it to be called an honour, and builded there a sumptuous Gallery and a beautiful Gate house, thwart the high street to S. james park, etc. In this gallary the Princes with their Nobility, use to stand or sit, and at Windows to behold all triumphant justinges, & other military exercises. Beyond this Gallery on the left hand is the garden or orchard belonging to the said White hall. On the right hand be divers fair Tennis courts, bowling Allies, and a Cock pit, Tennis courts Bowling Allies and Cock pit all built by king Henry the eight, and then one other arched gate with a way over it thwarting the street from the kings gardens to the said Park. From this gate up kings street, to a Bridge over Long ditch Long pitch. (so called for that the same almost insulateth the City of Westminster) near which Bridge is a way leading to Cannon Row, so called for that the same belonged to the Dean and Canons of S. Stephen's Chapel, S. Stephen's Ally. who were there lodged as now divers Noblemen, and Gentlemen be. From this way up to the Woolestable and to the high Tower, or gate which entereth the Palace Court, all is replenished with buildings, and inhabitants. Touching this Woolestable, T. Glifforde. I read that in the reign of Edward the first, the Staple being at Westminster the parrishioners of S. Margaret, and Merchants of the Staple builded of new the said Church, the great Chancel excepted, which was lately before new builded, by the abbot of Westminster. Moreover that in the 27. of Edward the third the Staple of Wool, before kept at Bruges in Flanders, was ordained by Parliament to be kept in divers places of England, Wales, & Ireland, as at Newcastle, York, Lincoln, Canterbury, Norwitch, Westminster, Chichester, Winchester, Excester, Bristol, and Carmarden, etc. to the great benefit of the king, and loss unto strangers, and merchants. For there grew unto the king by this means (as it was said) the sum of one thousand a hundred and two pounds by the year more than any his predecessors before had received, the Staple at Westminster at that time began on the next morrow after the feast of S. Peter Ad vincula. The next year there was granted to the king by Parliament towards the recovery of his title in France, fifty shillings of every sack of Wool transported over seas, for the space of six years next ensuing, Robert de A. nesbery. by means whereof the king might dispend daily during those years, more than a thousand marks starling. For by the common opinion there were more than 100000. sacks of Wool yearly transported into foreign lands, so that during six years the said grant extended to fifteen hundred thousand pound starling. In the 37. of Edward the third it was granted unto him for two years to take six and twenty shillings eight pence, upon every sack of Wool transported and the same year the Staple of Wool (notwithstanding the king's oath and other great estates) was ordained to be kept at Calais and six and twenty merchants the best and wealthiest of all England, to be Farmers there, both of the Town and Staple for three years, every merchant to have six men of Arms, and four Archers at the kings roast. He ordained there also two Majors, one for the town, and one for the Staple, and he took for mala capta commonly called Maltorth (I think Custom) twenty shillings, and of the said merchants Guardians of the Town forty pence, upon every sack of Wool. In the 44. of Edward the third, Quamborough Kingston upon Hull, and Boston, were made Staples of Wool, which matter so much offended some, that in the 50. of his reign in a Parliament at London, it was complained that the Staple of Wool, was so removed from Calais to divers towns in England contrary to the statute, appointing that Citizens and merchants should keep it there, and that the king might have the profits and customs with the exchange of gold and silver that was there made, by all the Merchants in Christendom (esteemed to amount to 8000 ●. by year) the Exchange only: and the Citizens and merchants so ordered the matter that the king spent nothing upon soldiers neither upon defence of the town against the enemies, whereas now he spent eight thousand pound by year. In the year 1388. the twelfth of Richard the second, Manu script. French. in a Parliament at Cambridge, it was ordained that the staple of wools Wool Staple at Middle. b●ough. should be brought from Middlebrough in Holland to Calais. In the fourteenth of his reign there was granted 40. ●. upon every sack of Wool, and in the one and twentieth was granted 50. ●. upon every sack transported by english men, and three pound of by strangers etc. It seemeth that the merchants of this staple be the most ancient merchants of this Realm, and that all commodities of the Realm or Staple, Staple Merchants the most ancientest of this realm. merchandises by law & Charter, as wools, Leather, Wool fells, Led, Tyn, cloth etc. King Henry the sixth had six Wool● houses within the Staple at Westminster●● those he granted to the Dean and Cannons of S. Stephen at Westminster, and confirmed ●t the ●●. of his reign. Thus much for the Staple have I shortly noted: And now to pass to the famous Monastery of Westminster: At the very entrance of the Close thereof is a lane that leadeth toward the West● called Théeving lane, Thieving lane. for that thieves were led that way to the Gate house, while the Sanctuary continued in force. This Monastery was founded and builded by Sebert king of the East Saxons, upon the persuasion of Ethelbert king of Kent, who having embraced christianity, and being baptised by Melitus Bishop of London: immediately (to show himself a christian indeed) built a church to the honour of God and Saint Peter, on the West side of the city of London, in a place (which because it was overgrown with thorns, and environed with water) the Saxons called Thorney, and now of the Monastery and West situation thereof is called Westminster. Foundation of Westminster by Sebert a Christian king not only in word but in deed. In this place (saith Fulcardus Fulcardus. ) long before was a Temple of Apollo, which being overthrown, King Lucius built therein a Church of Christianity. Sebert was buried in this church, with his wife Athelgoda, whose bodies many years after, to wit in the reign of Richard the second (saith Walsingham Walsingham. ) were translated from the old church to the new, and there interred. edgar King of the West Saxons repaired this Monastery about the year of Christ ●958. Edward the Confessor builded it of new, whereupon T. Clifford writeth thus. Without the walls of London (saith he) upon the River of Thames there was in times passed a little Monastery, T. Clifford. builded to the honour of God, and Saint Peter, with a few Benedict Monks in it, under an abbot serving Christ: very poor they were, and little was given them for their relief, here the king intended (for that it was near to the famous city of London and the River of Thames, that brought in all kind of merchandises from all parts of the world) to make his Sepulchre, be commanded therefore that of the tenths of all his rents, the work should be begun in such sort as should become the Prince of the Apostles. At this his commandment the work is nobly begun, even from the foundation and happily proceedeth till the same was finished: the charges bestowed, or to be bestowed are not regarded. He granted to this church great privileges, above all the churches in this land as partly appear by this his Charter. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Edward King greet William Bishop and Leofstane and Aelffie Portreeves, and all my Burgesses of London friendly, and I tell you that I have this given and granted to Christ & S. Peter the holy Apostle at Westminster full freedom over all the land, that belongeth to that holy place. etc. He also caused the parish Church of S. Margaret Parish church of S. Margaret to be newly builded, without the Abbey church of Westminster for the ease & commodity of the Monks, because before that time the parish Church stood within the old Abbey church in the South Isle, some what to their annoyance. This church of S. Margaret (which that king Edward builded) continued till the days of King Edward the first, at what time the staple of wools was at Westminster, and then the parishioners and Merchants of the Staple builded it all of new (the great chancel excepted, which was done by the Abbots of Westminster as is afore showed. King Henry the third in the year of Christ 1220. begins the new work of our Lady's Chapel, and in the year 1245. the walls and steeple of the old Church (builded by king Edward) were taken down, and enlarging the same Church, caused them to be made more comely, for the furtherance whereof in the year 1246. the same king (devising how to extort money from the citizens of London towards the charges) appointed a Mart to be kept at Westminster, A Mart at Westminster. the same to last fifteen days, and in the mean space all trade of Merchandise to cease in the City, which thing the citizens were feign to redeem with two thousand pound of silver. The work of this Church with the houses of Office, was finished to the end of the Choir in the year 1285. the 14. of Edward the first. All which labour of 66. years, was in the year 1299. defaced by a fire kindled in the lesser Hall of the kings Palace at Westminster, Westminster with the palace burned. the same with many other houses adjoining, and with the queens chamber were all consumed, the flame thereof also (being driven with the wind) fired the Monastery, which was also with the palace consumed. Than was this Monastery again repaired by the Abbots of that Church, king Edward the first and his successors putting to their helping hands. Edward the second apropriated unto this Church the patronages of the Churches of Kelueden and Sabritsworth in Essex in the Diocese of London. Simon Langham Abbot (having been a great builder there in the year 1362.) gave 400. ●. to the building of the body of the church: but (amongst others) Abbot Islip was in his time a great builder there, as may appear in the stone work, and glass windows of the Church. Since whose decease that work hath staid as he left it, unperfected, the Church and steeple being all of one height. King Henry the seventh about the year of Christ 1502. caused the Chapel of our Lady, New Chapel at Westminster. builded by Henry the third, with a Tavern also called the White Rose near adjoining to be taken down: In which plot of ground, on the 24. of january, the first stone of the new chapel was laid by the hands of Abbot Islip, Sir Reginald Bray, Knight of the Garter, Doctor Barnes, master of the Rolls, Doctor Wall, Chaplain to the King, Master Hugh Aldham, Chaplain to the Countess of Derby, and Richmond (the kings mother) Sir Edward Stanho● knight, and divers other: upon the● which stone was engraven the same day and year, etc. The charges in building this Chapel amounted to the sum of 14000. pound: the stone for this work (as I have been informed) was brought from Huddlestone quarry in York shire: The Altar and se●●ture of the same King Henry the seventh, wherein his body resteth in this his new chapel, was made and finished in the year 1519. by one Peter a Painter of Florence: for the which he received 1000 pound starling for the whole stuff and workmanship, at the hands of the kings executors, Richard Bishop of Winchester, Richard Bishop of London, Thomas Bishop of Dutham, john Bishop of Rochester, ●●●● Duke of Norfolk, Treasurer of Englande● Edward Earl of Worcester the kings Chamberlain, john Fineaux knight, Chief justice of the Common place, etc. This Monastery being valued to dispend by the year 3470. pound etc. was surrendered to Henry, the eight, in the year 1539. And Benson then Abbot was made the first Deane and not long after it was advanced to a bishops Sea, Westminster a Bishop's sea. in the year 1541. Thomas Thurley being both the first and last Bishop there, who when he had impoverished the church was translated to Norwich in the year 1550. the fourth of Edward the sixth, and from thence to Elie, in the year 1554. the second of Queen Mary, Richard Cox Doctor in Divinity (late schoolmaster to king Edward 6.) was made Deane of Westminster whom Queen Mary put out, & made Doctor Weston Deane, until the year 1556. and then he being removed from thence on the 21. of November, john Fekenham (late Deane of Paul's) was made Abbot of Westminster, and took possession of the same, being installed, and fourteen Monks more received the habbot with him that day of the order of Saint Benedict: but the said Iohn● Fe●kenham with his Monks enjoyed not that place fully three years for in the year 1559. in the month of july they were all put out, and Queen Elizabeth made the said Monastery a College, Westminster made a college. instituting there a Dean, twelve Prehendes, ●●●●●●●●● Almesmen● and ●ortie scholars, calling them the Queen's scholars: and so was it named the College at Westminster, founded by O. Elizabeth. D. Bill one of her majesties Chaplains was made the first Dean: after whom succeeded M. D. Gabriel Goodman, now Resident. Of the Kings and Queens crowned Kings and Queens crowned at Westminster. in this Church William surnamed Conqueror, & Matilde his wife were the first: & since them all other Kings and Queens of this realm, have been here crowned. The kings and Queens buried Kings and Queens buried at Westminster. in this Church are these: Sebert king of the East Saxons, with his wife Athelgode, Harold surnamed Herefote, king of the West Saxons: Edward the simple, surnamed Confessor, sometime richly shrined in a Tomb of silver and Gold, curiously wrought by commandment of William the Conqueror, Egitha his wife was there buried also, King Henry the third, whose Sepulture was richly garnished with precious stones of jasper, which his son Edward S. Edward's shrine at Westminster. the first brought out of France for that purpose: Eleanor wife to Henry the third, Edward the first who offered to the shrine of Edward the Confessor the chair of marble, wherein the Kings of scotlan were crowned, with the sceptre and Crown also to the same king belonging. He gave also to that church lands to the value of 100 pound by the year, twenty pound thereof yearly to be distributed to the poor for ever: then there lieth Eleanor his wife, daughter, to Ferdinando king of Castille, Edward the third by Queen Philip of Henault his wife. Richard the second and Anne his wife, with their images upon them, with cost more than four hundred marks for the guilding: Henry the fift with a royal image of silver and guilt, which Katherine his wife caused to be laid upon him, but the head of this image being of massy silver is broken off, and conveyed away with the plates of silver and guilt that covered his body: Katherine his wife was buried in the old Lady chapel, but her corpse being taken up in the reign of Henry the seventh (when a new foundation was to be laid) she was never since buried, but remayveth above ground in a coffin of boards behind the East end of the Presbytery: Henry the seventh in a sumptuous sepulture, and chapel before specified, and Elizabeth his wife, Edward the sixth in the same Chapel without any monument, Queen Mary without any Monument in the same chapel: Matilde daughter to Malcolne king of Scots, wife to Henry the first, lieth in the Revestrie: Anne wife to Richard the third, Margaret Countess of Richmond and Derby, mother to Henry the seventh, Anne of Cleve, wife to Henry the eight: Edmond second son to Henry the third, first Earl of Lancaster, Derby, and Leycester, and Aueline his wife, daughter and heir to William de Fortibus Earl of Albemarle. In S. Thomas chapel lie the bones of the children of Henry the third, and of Edward the first, in number nine. In the Chapter house, Alianor countess of Bar, daughter to Edward the first, William of Windsor, and Blanch his sister, children to Edward the third: john of Eltham Earl of Cornewell, son to Edward the second, Elinor wife to Thomas of Woodstock Duke of Gloucester: Thomas of Woodstock by king Edward the third his father: Margaret daughter to Edward the fourth, Elizabeth daughter to Henry the seventh, William de Valence Earl of Pembroke, Aimer de Valence Earl of Pembroke, Margaret and john son and daughter to William de Valence, john Waltham Bishop of Sarum Treasurer of England, Thomas Ruthall Bishop of Durham 1522. Gyles Lord Dawbeny Earl of Bridgewater, Chamberlain to king Henry the seventh 1508. and his wife of the family of the Arundelles in Cornewell, john Viscount Welles, 1498. The Lady Katherine daughter to the Duchess of Norfolk, Sir. T. Hungerford knight, father to Sir john Hungerford of Downampney knight, a son & daughter to Humphrey Bohun Earl of Hereford and Essex, and Elizabeth his wife, Philip Duchess of York, daughter to the Lord Mohun, thrice married, to the Lord Fitzwalter, Sir john Golofer, and to the Duke of York: William Dudley Bishop of Durham, Nicholas Baron Carew, Walter Hungerford son to Edmond, Sir john Burley Knight, and Anne his wife, Sir john Golofer Knight, Humphrey Bourchere, Lord Cromwell, Henry Bourchere son and heir to the Lord Barons, and both slain at Barnet, Sir William Trussell knight, Sir Thomas Vaughan knight, Francis Brandon Duchess of Suffolk, Mary her daughter, Sir john Hampden Knight, Sir Lewes Viscount Robsart Knight, Lord Bourchere of Henalt, and his wife daughter and heir to the Lord Bourchere: Robert Browne and William Brown Esquires: The Lady johane Tokyne daughter of Dabridge court: George Mortimer bastard, john Felby Esquire, Anne wife to john Watkins, William Southwike Esquire, William Southcot Esquire, Ralph Constantine gentleman, Arthur Froffote Esquire, Robert Hall Knight, slain in that church, Sir Richard Rouse Knight, Sir Geffrey Maundevil Earl of Essex, and Athelard his wife, Sir Foulk of Newcastle, Sir james Baron's Knight, Sir john Salisberie knight, Margaret Douglas Countess of Lineaux, with Charles her son, Earl of Lineaux: Henry Scogan a learned Poet, in the cloister. Geffrey Chaucer the most famous Poet of England, Geffrey Chaucer the famous poet of England. also in the Cloister, 1400. but since Nicholas Brigham Gentleman, raised a Monument for him in the South cross I'll of the Church: his works were partly plublished in print by William Caxton in the reign of Henry the sixth: Increased by William Thin Esquire, in the reign of Henry the eight: Corrected and twice increased through mine own painful labours, in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, to wit, in the year 1561. and again beautified with notes, by me collected out of divers Records and Monuments, which I delivered to my loving friend Thomas Speight, & he having drawn the same into a good form and method, as also explained the old and obscure words etc. hath published them in Anno 1597. Anne Stahanhope Duchess of Somerset & jane her daughter, Anne Cecil Countess of Oxford daughter to the Lord Burghley, with Mildred Burghley her mother, Elizabeth Barkley Countess of Ormond, Francis Sidney Countess of Sussex, Elizabeth Countess of Hertford, Thomas Baron Wentworth, Thomas Baron Wharton: john Lord Rustell, Sir Thomas Bromley Lord Chancellor, Sir john Puckering Lord Keeper. etc. This Church hath had great privilege of Sanctuary Sanctuary at Westminster. within the precinct thereof, to wit, the church, churchyard, and close, etc. from whence it hath not been lawful for any Prince or other, to take any person that fled thither for any cause: which privilege was first granted by Sebert king of the East Saxons, since increased by edgar king of the West Saxons, renewed and confirmed by king Edward the Confessor, as appeareth by this his charter following. Edward by the grace of God, King of Englishmen: I make it to be known to all generations of the world after me, that by special commandment of our holy Father Pope Leo, I have renewed & honoured the holy church of the blessed Apostle S. Peter of Westminster, & I order and establish for ever, that what person of what condition or estate soever he be, from whence soever he come, or for what offence or cause it be, either for his refuge into the said holy place, he be assured of his life, liberty and limbs: And over this I forbidden under the pain of everlasting damnation, that no minister of mine, or of my successors intermeddle them with any the goods, lands or possessions of the said persons taking the said Sanctuary: for I have taken their goods and livelihood into my special protection, and therefore I grant to every each of them in as much as my terrestrial power may suffice, all manner freedom of joyous liberty: And whosoeverpresumes or doth contrary to this my grant, I will he loose his name, worship, dignity, and power, and that with the great traitor judas that betrayed our Saviour, he be in the everlasting fire of hell, and I will and ordain that this my grant endure as long as there remaineth in England, either love or dread of christian name. Moore of this Sactuarie ye may read in our histories, and also in the statute of Henry the eight, the 32. year. Next to this famous Monastery, is the King's principal Palace, of what antiquity it is uncertain: but Edward the Confessor held his Court there: as may appear by the testimony of sundry, and namely of Ingulphus, as I have before told you. The said king had his Palace, and for the most part remained there: where he also ended his life, and was buried in the Monastery which he had builded. It is not to be doubted, but that King William the first, as he was crowned there, so he builded much at this Palace: for he found it far inferior to the building of princely palaces in France. And it is manifest, by the testimony of many Authors, that William Rufus builded the great Hall there, about the year of Christ, 1097 amongst others, Roger of Windovar, and Mathewe Paris, Great hall at Westminster. Matthew Paris. do writ, that King William (being returned out of Normandy into England) kept his feast of Whitsuntide very royally at Westminster, in the new Hall which he had lately builded, the length whereof (say some) was 270. foot, and seventy four foot in breadth, and when he heard men say, that this Hall was too great, he answered, Liber Woodbridge. and said: this Hall is not big enough, by the one half, and is but a bead chamber in comparison of that I mean to make: a diligent searcher (saith Paris) might find out the foundation of the hall, which he had supposed to have builded, stretching from the River of Thames, even to the common high way. This Palace was repaired about the year, Palace repaired. 1163. by Thomas Becket, W. Fitzstephens Chancellor of England, with exceeding great celerity and speed: which before, was ready to have fallen down. This hath been the principal seat and Palace of all the Kings of England, since the Conquest: for here have they in the great Hall kept their feasts of Coronation especially, and other solemn feasts, as at Christmas, and such like, most commonly: for proof whereof, I find Recorded, that in the year, 1236. and the twentieth of Henry the third, on the 29. of December, Record Tower. William de Havarhull the King's Treasurer, is commanded, that upon the day of Circumcision of our Lord, he caused 6000. poor people to be fed at Westminster, for the state of the King, the Queen, and their children: the weak and aged to be placed in the great Hall: The use of great halls was to feed the Poor. and in the lesser, those that were most strong, and in reasonable plight: in the King's Chamber, the children in the Queens: and when the King knoweth the charge, he would allow it in the accounts. The like commandment, the said King Henry gave to Hugh Gifford and William Browne, that upon Friday next after the Epiphany, they should 'cause to be fed in the great Hal of Windfor, at a good fire, all the poor and needy children that could be found, and the king's children, being weighed and measured, their weight and measure to be distributed for their good estates. In the year 1238. the same King Henry kept his feast of Christmas at Westminster, Matthew Paris. in the great Hall: so did he in the year 1241. where he placed the Legate in the most honourable place of the Table, to wit, in the midst, which the Noble men took in evil part: the King sat on the right hand, and the Archbishop on the left, and then all the Prelates and Nobles according to their estates: for the King himself set the Guests. The year 1242. he likewise kept his Christmas in the Hall, etc. Also in the year 1243. Richard Earl of Cornwell the King's brother, married Cincia, daughter to Beatrice, Countess of Province, and kept his marriage feast in the great Hall at Westminster, with great royalty and company of Noble men: insomuch, that there were told (triginta milia) 30000. dishes of meats at that dinner. In the year 1256. King Henry sat in the Exchequer H. the 3. sat in the Exchequer and merced the Sheriffs. of this Hall, and there set down order for the appearance of Sheriffs, and bringing in of their accounts: there was five Marks set on every sheriffs head for a fine, because they had not distrained every person, that might dispend fifteen pound land by the year to receive the order of Knighthood, as the same Sheriffs were commanded. In the years 1268 and 1269. the same king kept his Christmas feasts at Westminster as before, and also in the same, 1269. he translated with great solemnity, the body of king E. the Confessor, Translation of E. the Confessor. into a new Chapel, at the back of the high Altar: which Chapel he had prepared of a marvelous workmanship, bestowing a new Tomb or Shrine of Gold, and on the day of his translation, he kept a royal feast in the great Hall of the Palace: thus much for the feast of old time in this Hall. We read also, that in the year 1236. the river of thames overflowing the banks, caused the Marshes about Woolwitch to be all on a Sea, Marshes about Woolwitch drowned. wherein Boats and other vessels were carried with the stream, so that beside cattle, the greatest number of men women, and children, inhabitants there, were drowned: and in the great Palace of Westminster, men did row with wherries, Wheries rowed in Westminster Hall. in the midst of the hall, being forced to ride to their chambers. Moreover, in the year 1242. the Thames overflowing the banks about Lambhithe, drowned houses and fields, by the space of six miles, so that in the great hall at Westminster, men took their horse, because the water ran over all. This Palace was (in the year, 1299. the twenty seventh of Edward the first, brent by a vehement fire, T. Walsinghan. Palace at Westminster brent. kindled in the lesser hall of the King's house, the same with many other houses adjoining, and with the queens chamber, were consumed, but after that repaired. In the year, 1313. the 31. of E. the first, the king's treasury at Westminster was rob, The king's Treasury at Westminster rob. for the which, Walter Abbot of Westminster, The Abbot & Monks sent to the Tower. with 49. of his brethren, and 32. other were thrown into the Tower of London, and indited of the robbery, of an hundred thousand pound: but they affirming themselves to be clear of the fact, and desiring the King of speedy justice, a commission, was directed for inquiry of the truth, & they were freed. In the year 1316 E. the 2. did solemnize his feast of Penticost, at Westminster, in the great Hall, E. the 2. keeping his feasts at Westm. hall. was presented with a complaint, of not rewarding soldiers. where sitting royally at the table, with his Pears about him, there entered a woman adorned like a Minstrel, sitting on a great horse, trapped as Minstrels then used, who road round about the tables, showing pastime, and at length, came up to the king's table, and laid before him a letter, and forthwith turning her horse, saluted every one, and departed. The letters being opened, had these contents. Our Sovereign Lord the King, hath nothing courteously respected his knights, that in his father's time, and also in his own, have put forth their persons to divers perils, and have utterly lost, or greatly diminished their substance, for honour of the said King, and he hath enriched abundantly such as have not borne the weight as yet, of the business, etc. This great Hall was begun to be repaired Great Hall at Westminster repaired. in the year, 1397. by R●. the 2. who caused the walls, windows, and roof, to be taken down, and new made, with a stately porch, & divers lodgings of a marvelous work, & with great Costs: all which, he levied of strangers banished, or flying out of their countries, who obtained licence to remain in this land by the king's charters, which they had purchased with great sums of money. This hall being finished in the year, 1399. the same King kept a most royal Christmas there, with daily justings and run at Tilt, whereunto resorted such a number of people, that there was every day spent, twenty eight, or twenty six Oxen, and three hundredth Sheep, besides fowl, without number: he caused a gown for himself to be made of Gold, garnished with Pearl and precious Stone, to the value of 3000. Marks: he was guarded by Cheshiere men, and had about him commonly thirteen Bishops, besides Barons, Knights, Esquires, and other more than needed: insomuch, that to the household, came every day to meat 10000 people, as appeared by the messes told out from the Kitchen to 300. Servitors. Thus was this great Hall for the honour of the Prince oftentimes furnished with guests, Ro. juelefe. not only in this king's time (a prodigal Prince) but in the time or other also, both before & since, though not so usually noted. For when it is said, the King held his Feast of Christmas, or such a Feast at Westminster, it may well be supposed to be kept in this great Hall, as most sufficient to such a purpose. I find noted by Robert Fabian, Ro. Fabian. the Chronickler (sometime a Citizen and an Alderman of London) that king Henry the seventh, King Henry the 7. feasted the Mayor of London, etc. in the ninth of his reign (holding his royal feast of Christmas, at Westminster) on the twelfth day, feasted Ralph Austry, than Mayor of London, and his brethren the Aldermen, with other Commoners in great number, and after dinner, dubbing the Mayor Knight, caused him with his brethren, to stay and behold the disguizing and other disports, in the night following, showed in the great Hall, which was richly hanged with Arras, and Staged about on both sides: which disports being ended in the morning, the King, the Queen, the Ambassadors, and other states, being set at a table of stone, 60. knights, and Esquires, served 60. dishes to the King's Mess, and as many to the Queens (neither flesh nor fish) and served the Mayor with twenty four dishes to his Mess, of the same manner, with sundry wines, in most plenteous wise: and finally, the King and Queen, being conveyed with great lights into the Palace, the Mayor with his Company in Barges, returned and came to London, by break of the next day. Thus much for building of this great hall, and feasting therein. It moreover appeareth, that many Parliaments have been kept there: 〈…〉 for I find noted, that in the year 1397. the great Hall at Westminster, being out of reparations, and therefore (as it were new builded by Richard the second, (as is before showed) the same Richard in the mean time having occasion to hold a Parliament, caused for that purpose a large house to be builded in the midst of the Palace Court, betwixt the clock Tower, and the gate of the old great Hall, this house was very large and long, made of timber, covered with tile, open on both the sides, and at both the ends, that all men might see and hear what was both said and done. The King's archers (in number, 4000 Chesh●ire men) compassed the house about with their Bows bend, and Arrows nocked in their hands, always ready to shoot: they had bouch of court Bouch of Court. (to wit, meat and drink) and great wages, of six pence by the day. The old great Hall being new builded, Parliaments were again there kept as before: namely, one in the year 1399. for the deposing of Richard the second. A great part of this Palace at Westminster was once again brent in the year 1512. the fourth of Henry the eight, since the which time, it hath not been re-edified: only the great Hall, with the offices near adjoining, are kept in good reparations, and serveth as afore it did, for feasts at Coronations, Arraignments of great persons charged with treasons, keeping of the courts of justice, etc. But the Princes have been lodged in other places about the city, as at Baynard's Castle, at Bridewell, and White Hall, sometime called York Place, and sometimes at S. james. This great Hall hath been the usual place of plead, and ministration of justice, whereof somewhat shortly I will note. In times past, the courts and benches followed the King, wheresoever he went, as well since the conquest, as before, which thing at length being thought cumbersome, painful, and chargeable to the people, it was in the year 1224. the 9 of H. the 3. agreed, that there should be a standing place appointed, where matters should be heard and judged, which was in the great Hall at Westminster. Magna carta. Common place in Westminster Hall. In this Hall, be ordained three judgement seats, to wit, at the entry on the right hand, the common place, where civil matters are to be pleaded, T. Smith. specially such as touch lands, or contracts, at the upper end of the Hall, on the right hand (or Southeast corner) the King's bench where pleas of the Crown have their hearing: and on the left hand or south-west corner, sitteth the Lord Chancellor, accompanied with the master of the Rolls, and with certain other of the 11. men (learned for the most part in the Civil Law, and called masters of the Chancery) Court of the Chancery. which have the King's fee. The times of pleading in these courts are four, in the year which are called Terms, the first is Hillary Term, which beginneth the 23. of januarie (if it be not Sunday) and endeth the 12. of February. The second, is Easter Term, and beginneth 17. days after Easter day, and endeth 4. days after Ascension day. The third Term beginneth 6. or seven days after Trinity Sunday, and endeth the Wednesday fortnight after. The fourth is Michaelmas Term, which beginneth the 9 of October (if it be not Sunday) and endeth the 28. of November. And here is to be noted, that the Kings of this Realm, have used sometimes to sit in person in the King's Bench, namely, King Edward the fourth, in the year, 1462. in Michaelmas Term sat in the King's Bench Kings of this Realm have sat on the King's Bench, in West● Hall. three days together, in the open Court, to understand how his laws were ministered and executed. Within the Port, or entry into the Hall, on either side, are ascendings up into large chambers: without the Hall adjoining thereunto, wherein certain Courts be kept, namely, on the right hand, is the court of the Exchequer, Court of the Exchequer. a place of account, for the revenues of the crown: the hearers of the account, have Auditors under them, but they which are the chief for the accounts of the prince, are called Barons of the Exchequer, whereof one is called the chief Baron. The greatest officer of all, is called the high Treasurer of England. In this court be heard, those that are delators (or informers) in popular and penal actions, having thereby part of the profit by the law assigned unto them. In this Court, Informers. (if any question be) it is determined after the order of the common Law of England, by twelve men, and all subsidies, Taxes, and Customs, by account, for in this office, the Sheriffs of the Shire do attend upon the execution of the commandments of the judges, which the Earl should do, if he were not attending upon the Princes in the Wars, or otherwise about him: for the chief office of the Earl was, to see the King's justice to have course, and to be well executed in the Shire, and the Prince's Revenues to be well answered and brought into the Treasury. If any fines or amerciaments be extracted out of any of the said courts upon any man, or any arrearages of accounts, of such things as is of customs, taxes and subsidies, or other such like occasions, the same the Sheriff of the Shire doth gather, and is answerable therefore in the Exchequer, as for other ordinary rents, of patrimonial lands, and most commonly of taxes, customs, and subsidies, there be particular receivers and collectors, which do answer it into the Exchequer. This Court of the Exchequer, hath of old time (and as I think, since the conquest) been kept at Westminster, notwithstanding, sometimes removed thence by commandment of the king, for a time, and after restored again, as namely, in the year, 1209. King john commanded the Exchequer to be removed from Westminster, to Northampton, etc. On the left hand above the stair is the Duchy chamber, wherein is kept, the court for the Duchy of Lancaster, by a Chancellor of that Duchy, and other officers under him. dutch court. Than is there in an other chamber, the office of receipts office of receipt of the queens Revenues, for the Crown: then is there also, the Star chamber, Star chamber. where in the Term time every week once at the lest, (which is commonly on Fridays and Wednesdays, and on the next day after, the Term endeth) the Lord Chancellor and the Lords, and other of the privy counsel, and the two chief justices of England, from 9 of the clock, till it be 11. do sit. This place is called the Star chamber, because the roof thereof is decked with the likeness of Stars guilt, there be plaints heard, of riots, routs, and other misdemeanours, which if they be found by the King's Council, the party the offender, shallbe censured by these persons, which speak one after another, and he shallbe both fined and commanded to the prison. Than at the upper end of the great Hall, by the King's Bench, is a going up, to a great chamber, called the white Hall, wherein is now kept the Court of Wards, and Liveries: The court of Wards and Liveries. and adjoining thereunto, is the Court of Requests. Court of Requests. Than is Saint Stephen's chapel, S. Stephens chapel. of old time founded by King Stephen, and again since, of a far more curious workmanship, new builded by King Edward the third, in the year, 1347. for thirty eight persons, in that church to serve God, to wit, a Dean, twelve secular Cannons, thirteen Uickars, four Clerks, six Chorsles, two Servitors, to wit, a Uerger, and a keeper of the Chapel. He builded for those, from the house of receipt, along nigh to the Thames, within the same Palace, there to inhabit, and since that, there was also builded for them, betwixt the the clock house, and the wool staple, called the weyhouse. He also builded to the use of this chapel, (though out of the Palace court) some distance West, in the little Sanctuary, Little Sanctuary. a strong Clotchard of stone and timber, covered with Lead, and placed therein, three bells, about the biggest of the which (as I have been informed) was written. King Edward made me, Thirty thousand and three, Take me down and weigh me, And more shall ye find me. The said King Edward, endowed this chapel with lands, to the yearly value of 500 pound. Doctor john Chambers, the king's physician (the last Deane of this College) builded thereunto a cloister Cloister of S. Stephen's Chapel builded. of curious workmanship, to the charges of 11000. Marks. This chapel (or college) at the suppression, was valued to dispend in lands by the year 1085. pound 10. shillings 5. pence, and was surrendered to E. the 6. since the which time, the same chapel hath served as a Parliament house. Parliament house. This Palace (before the entry thereinto) hath a large court, and in the same, a tower of stone, containing a clock, Clock house at Westminster. which striketh every hour on a great bell, to be heard into the Hall, in sitting time of the courts, or otherwise: for the same clock (in a calm) will be heard into the city of London. King H. the sixth, gave the keeping of this clock, Fountain in the Palace Court. with the Tower, called the clock house and the appurtenances, unto W. Walsby, Deane of S. Stephens, with the wages of six pence by the day, out of the Exchequer. By this Tower standeth a Fountain, which at the Coronations, and other great triumphs, is made to run with wine out of divers spouts. On the East side of this court, is an arched gate to the river of Thames, with a fair bridge and landing place, Westminst●● bridge or colemon landing place. for all men that have occasion. On the North side, is the South end of S. Stephen's Alley, or Canon row; and also, a way into the old wool staple: and on the west side is a very fair gate begun by Ri. the 3. in the year 1484. and was by him builded a great height, and many fair lodgings in it, but left unfinished, and is called the high Tower at Westminster. High tower ●● Westminster● Thus much for the Monastery and Palace, may suffice. And now will I speak of the Gatehouse, Gate house a● Westminster● and of Totehilstréete, stretching from the West part of the Close. The Gatehouse is so called of two Gates, the one out of the college court toward the North, on the East side whereof, was the Bishop of London's prison, for clerks convict, and the other gate adjoining to the first, but towards the west, is a gail, or prison for offenders thither committed. Walter Warfield celerar to the Monastery, caused both these gates with the appurtenances to be builded in the reign of E. the 3. On the South side of this gate, King H. the 7. founded an almshouse, Almeshouse o● Henry the 7. ● for 13. poor men: one of them to be a Priest, aged 45. years, a good Grammarian, the other 12 to be aged fifty years without wives, every Saturday the Priest to receive of the Abbot, or prior, 4. pence by the day, and each other 2 pence half penny by the day for ever, for their sustenance, and every year to each one a gown and a hood ready made: and to 3. women that dressed their meat, and kept them in their sickness, each to have every Saturday 16. pence, and every year a gown ready made. Moore to the 13. poor men yearly 80. quarters of coal, and 1000 of good faggots to their use: in the hall and kitchen of their mansion, a discreet Monk to be overseer of them, and he to have 40. shillings by the year, etc. and hereunto was every Abbot and prior sworn. Neareunto this house westward, was an old chapel of S. Anne, chapel of S. Anne. over against the which, the Lady Margaret, Almeshouse founded by Lady Margaret. mother to king H. the 7 erected an Almeshouse for poor women, which is now turned into lodgings for the singing men of the college: the place wherein this chapel and Almeshouse standeth, was called the Elemosinary or Almory, Almory at Westminster. now corruptly the Ambry, for that the Alms of the Abbey were there distributed to the poor. And therein Islip Abbet of Westminster, first practised and erected the first Press of book Printing that ever was in England, Printing of books at Westm. the first in England. about the year of Christ, 1471. From the West gate runneth along Totehill street, Totehil street. wherein is a house of the Lord Grace of Wilton, and on the other side at the entry into Totehill field, Stourton house, which Gyles, the last L. Dacre of the South, purchased and built new, whose Lady, and wife Anne, (sister to Thomas the Lord Buckhurst) left money to her Executors to build an Hospital for 20. poor women, and so many children to be brought up under them, or whose maintenance she assigned lands, to the value of 100 pound by the year: which Hospital, Hospital founded by Lady Anne Dacre. her Executors have new begun, in the field adjoining. From the entry into Totehil field, the street is called Petty France, Petty France. in which, and upon S. Hermit's hill, on the South side thereof, Cornelius van don (a Brabander borne, Yeomen of the Guard, to King H. the 8. King E. the 6. Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth) built 20. houses for poor women to devil rend free: Almshouses for poor wowomen. and near hereunto was a chapel of Mary Magdalen, Chapel of Mary Magdalen. now wholly ruinated. The city of Westminster for civil government is divided in 12. several Wards, for the which, the Dean of the Collegiate church of Westm. or the high Steward, do elect 12. Burgesses, and as many assistants, that is, one Burgess, Government of Westminster City. and one Assistant, for every Ward, out of the which 12 Burgesses, 2. are nominated yearly, upon Thursday in Easter week, for chief Burgesses to continued for one year next following, who have authority given them by the Act of Parliament 27. Elizabeth, to hear, examine, determine, and punish according to the laws of the Realm, and lawful customs of the city of London, matters of incontinency, common scolds, inmates, and common annoyances, and likewise, to commit such persons as shall offend against the peace, and thereof to give knowledge within 24. hours to some justice of peace, in the county of Midlesex. Spiritual Governor. Governors of the City of London, and first of the Ecclesiastical, Bishops, and other Ministers there. Having thus run thorough the description of these cities of London and Westminster, as well in their Original foundations, as in their increases of buildings and Ornaments, together with such incidents of sundry sorts, as are before, both generally and particularly discoursed: It remaineth, that somewhat be noted by me, touching the policy and government, both Ecclesiastical and Civil, of London, as I have already done for Westminster, W●●almesbery. the order whereof, is appointed by late Statute, even as that of London is maintained by the customs thereof, Antiquities of Gla●to. most laudably used before all the time of memory. And first, to begin with the Ecclesiastical jurisdiction, I read, that the Christian faith was first preached in this Island (then called Britain) by joseph of Aram●thia, and his brethren Disciples of Christ, in the time of Arviragus, than Governor here, under the Roman Emperor: after which time, Lucius (King of the Britain's) sent his Ambassadors Eluanus, and Medwinus (two men learned in the Scriptures) with letters to Eleutherius Lib. consti L. Eleutherius died in the year, 186. when he had sitten Bishop 15 years. Bishop of Rome, desiring him to sand some devout and learned men, by whose instruction he and his people might be taught the faith and religion of Christ. Eleutherius baptized those messengers, making Eluanus a Bishop, and Medwinus a Teacher, and sent over with them into Britain, two other famous Clerks, Faganus and Dewianus, by whose diligence, Lucius and his people of Britain, were instructed in the faith of Christ, and baptized: the Temples of Idols, were converted into Cathedral churches, & Bishops were placed where Flammines before had been: at London, York, and Carleon upon uske, were placed Archbishops, etc. The Epistle said to be sent, by Eleutherius to king Lucius, for the establishing of the faith, ye may read in my Annalles, Sommaries, & Chronicles, truly translated & set down, as mine author hath it, Liber albu● constitut. for some have curtolled and corrupted it, and then fathered it upon the reverend Bede, who never wrote word thereof, or otherwise, to that effect. But to my matter of our London Bishops, as I find it written: First, there remaineth in the Parish church of Saint Peter upon Cornhill in London, a Table, wherein is written, that Lucius founded the same church to be an Archbishops See, and Metropolitan, or chief church of his Kingdom, and that it so endured the space of four hundred years, until the coming in of Augustine the monk, and others, from Rome, in the reign of the Saxons. The Archbishop's names, I find only to be set down by joceline of Furdes, Socelin of Furnes. in his book of British Bishops, and not elsewhere. 1. Thean (saith he) was the first Archbishop of London in the time of Lucius, who builded the said church of S. Peter, in a place called Cornhill in London, by the aid of Ciran, chief butler to the king Lucius. 2. Eluanus was the second, and he builded a Library to the same Church adjoining, and converted many of the Dreudes (learned men in the Paganne law) to the Christian faith. 3. Cadar was the third: then followed, 4. Obinus. 5. Conan. 6. Paludius. 7. Stephen. 8. Iltute. 9 Dedwin. 10. Thedred. 11. Hillary. 12. Guidelium. 13. Vodimus, he was slain by the Saxons. 14. Theanus (the fourteenth and the last) for he fled with the Britaines into Wales, about the year of Chrst, 587. Thus much out of jocelin of the Archbishops: ●. Tom come. the credit whereof I leave to the judgement of the learned: for I read of a Bishop of London (not before named) in the year of Christ 326. to be present at the 2. general Council holden at Arles, in the time of Constantine the great, who subscribed thereunto in these words, Ex provincia Britaniae Civitate Londinensi Restitutus Episcopus: as plainly appeareth in the first Tomb of the Counsels. he writeth not himself Archbishop, and therefore maketh the matter of Archbishops doubtful, or rather overthroweth that opinion. The Saxons being Pagons, having chased the Britons, with the Christian Preachers, into the Mountains of Wales and Cornwall: and having divided this Kingdom of the Britons amongst themselves, at the length (to wit, in the year 596.) Pope Gregory moved of a godly instinction (sayeth Bede) in the 147. year, after the arrival of the Angles (or Saxons) in Britain, sent Augustine, Miletus, justus, and john, with other Monks, to preach of Gospel, to the said Nation of the Angles in Britain: these landed in the isle of Thanet, and were first received by Ethelbert, King of Kent, whom they converted to the Faith of Christ, with divers other of his people in the 34. year of his Reign: which Ethelbert gave unto Augustine, the City of Canterbury. This Augustine in the year of Christ, 604. consecrated Melitus, and justus Bishops, appointing Melitus to preach unto the East Saxons, whose chief City was London: and there King Sebert Nephew to Ethelbert by preaching of Melitus, received the word of life: the than Ethelbert (King of Kent) builded in the City of London, Saint Paul's, Saint Paul's Church in London first founded. Church wherein Melitus began to be Bishop, in the year, 619. 1. Melitus first Bishop of London, 619. and sat five years. Ethelbert by his Charter, gave lands to this Church of Saint Paul: so did other kings after him: King Sebert through the good life and like preaching of Melitus, having received Baptism, To show himself a Christian, builded a Church, to the honour of God and S. Peter, on the West side of London, which Church is called Westminster, but the Successors of Sebert (being Pagannes) expelled Melitus. justus 2. justus, 24. the second, Bishop for a time, and then Melitus again: after whose decease, the seat was void for a time: at length Sigebert (son to Sigebert, brother to Sebert) ruled in Essex, heh became a Christian, and took to him, a holy man named Cedde, or (Chad) who won many by preaching, and good life to the Christian Religion. Cedde or (Chad) was by Finan consecrated Bishop of the East Saxons, and he ordered Priests and Deacons in all the parts of Essex, but especially at Ithancaster, and Tilberry. 3. Cedde, B. of London, 58. Ithancaster and Tilberrie. This City (saith Ralph Cogshall Ralph Cogshall. ) stood on the banque of the River, Pont that runneth by the Maldun in the hundred of Danesey, but now that City is drowned in Paute, so that nothing remaineth but the ruin of the City in the River, Tilburie (both the West and East) standeth on the Thames side, nigh over against Grauesende. Wina 4. Wina, 666. expelled from the church of Winchester, by Cenewalche the King, was adopted to be the fourth Bishop of London, in the reign of Wolferus, King of Mercia, and sat 9 years. Erkenwalde 5. Erkenwald 680. (borne in the Castle, or town of Stallingborough in Lindsey) first Abbot of Crotesey, was by Theodore, Archbishop of Canterbury, appointed to be Bishop of the East Saxons, in the City of London. This Erkenwald in the year of Christ, 677. (before that he was made Bishop) had builded two Monasteries, one for himself (being a Monk) at Crotsey Crotesey, or Chartesey. in the isle of Crote, in Surrey, by the River of Thames, and an other for his sister Edilburge, being a Nun, in a certain place, called Berching in Essex: he deceased at Berching, in the year, 697. and was buried in Paul's church, and was from thence, translated into the new Church of Saint Paul, on the eightéenth kallendes of December, in the year, 1148. Waldhere 6. Waldhere 697. Bishop of London, Sebba King King Sebba became a Monk in Paul's church. of the East Saxons, came to this Waldhere, Bishop of London, and at his hands received the habit of a Monk (for at that time, there were Monks in Paul's Church, as writeth Radulphus Dedicato, and others) to this Bishop he brought a great sum of money, to be bestowed and given to the poor, reserving nothing to himself, but rather desired to remain poor in goods, as in Spirit, for the Kingdom of Heaven: when he had reigned 30. year, he deceased at Paul's, and was there buried, and lieth now in a coffin of stone on the North side of the isle next the Quire. year 716. Ingwaldus the Bishop of London, was at the Consecration of Tatwine, Archbishop of Canterbrie: and he confirmed the foundation of Crowland in the year, seven hundred sixteen, (saith Ingulfus) and deceased in the year, 744. as saith Hovedon. year 746. Engulfe Bishop of London. year 754. Wichet. or Wigerns' Bishop of London. year 761. Eaderightus, or Edbrithe, Bishop of London. year 768. Eadgain or Eadgarus, Bishop of London. year 773. Kenewallth, Bishop of London. year 784. Eadbaldus Bishop of London, year 795. Heatbright, or Hutbright, Bishop of London, deceased 802. saith Heveden. year 813. Osmondus Bishop of London: he was witness to a Charter made to Crowland in the year 833. saith Engulfe. year 835. Ethelnothe Bishop of London. year 838. Elbertus, or Celbertus Bishop of London. year 841. Calf Bishop of London. year 850. Swithulfus Bishop of London: he likewise was witness to a Charter of Crowland 851. year 860. Edstanus Bishop of London, witness to a Charter to Crowland, 860. year 870. Vlsius Bishop of London. year 878. Ethelivardus, Bishop of London. year 886 Elstanus Bishop of London, died in the year 900. saith Asser, and all these (saith the Author of Flores Historiarum) were buried in the old church of S. Paul: but there remaineth memories there. year 900. Theodoricus Bishop of London: this man confirmed king Edreds' Charter, made to Winchester, in the year, 947. whereby it seemeth that he was B. of London of a later time, than he is here placed. year 922. Welstanus Bishop of London. year 941. Brithelme Bishop of London. year 958. Dunstanus Abbot of Glastonberry, them B. of Wircestar, & then B. of London: he was afterward translated to Canterbury, 960. year 960. Ealfstanns' Bishop of London, the 28. year 981. edgar Bishop of London: he confirmed the grants made to Winchester and to Crowland, 966. and again to Crowland 970. the Charter of Etheldred, concerning Vlfrunhampton, 996. year 1004. Elphinus Bishop of London. year 1010. Alwinus Bishop of London. year 1012. Alfhune Bishop of London: he was sent into Normandy in the year 1013. saith Asser. year 1044. Robert Bishop of London, 7. years a Monk of G●met, in Normandy: afterward translated from London to Canterbury. year 1050. Spechasius elected but rejected by the King. year 1051. William a Norman, Chaplain to Edward the Confessor, was made Bishop of London, 1051. sat 17. years, and deceased 1070. he obtained of William the Conqueror, the Charter of liberties for the City of London, as I have set down in my Summarie. year 1070. Hugh de Orwell Bishop of London: he died of a Leprosy when he had sitten fifteen years. year 1085. Mauricius Bishop of London: in whose time (to wit, in the year, 1086.) the Church of Saint Paul was brent, with the most part of this City: and therefore he laid the foundation of a new large church, and having sitten twenty two years, he deceased 1107 saith Paris. year 1108. Richard Beams (or Beamor) Bishop of London, did wonderfully increase the work of this church begun, purchasing the streets and Lanes adjoining of his own money, and he founded the Monastery of S. Osyth in Essex, he sat Bishop 19 years, and deceased, 1127. year 1141. Gilbertus universalis a Canon of Lions, elected by Henry the 1. he deceased 1141, when he had sitten 14. years. year 1152. Robert de Segillo a Monk of Reading, Whom Mawde the Empress, made Bishop of London: where he sat eleven years. Geffrey de Magnavile, took him prisoner, at Fulham, and he deceased, 1152. year 1158. Richard Beams, archdeacon of Essex, Bishop of London 10. years, who deceased 1162. year 1163. Gilbert Folio● Bishop of Hereford, from whence he was translated to London, and there sat twenty three years, and deceased, 1186. year 1189. Richard Fitz Nele the king's treasurer, archdeacon of Essex, elected Bishop of London, at Pipwell, 1189. he sat nine years, and deceased 1198. this man also took great pains about the building of Paul's church, and raised, many other goodly buildings in his decease. year 1199. William S. Marry Church, a Norman, Bishop of London, who was one of the three Bishops that by the Pope's commandment executed his interdiction or curse upon the whole realm of England, but he was forced with the other Bishops to fly the Realm in 1208. and his Castle at Stortforde in Essex, was by commandment of king john overthrown, 1210. This William in company of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and of the Bishop of Ely went to Rome, and there complained against the King 1212. and returned, so as in the year 1215. King john in the Church of Saint Paul, at the hands of this William took upon him the Cross for the holy land, he resigned his Bishopric of his own voluntary, in the year 1221. saith Cogshall. year 1221. Eustachius de Fauconbridge, Treasurer of the Exchequer (sayeth Paris) Chancellor of the Exchequer (sayeth Textor, and Cogshall) Bishop of London, 1223. whilst at Chelm●sforde he was giving holy orders, a great Tempest of wind and rain annoyed so many as came thither, whereof it was gathered, how highly God was displeased with such as came to receive orders, to the end they may live a more easy life of the stipends appointed to Church men giving themselves to banqueting, and so with unclean and filthy bodies, (but more unclean souls) presume to minister unto God, the author of purity and cleanness. Falcatius de Brent, was delivered to his custody in the year 1224: this Eustacius deceased in the year 1228. and was buried in Paul's church, in the southside without the Quire. year 1229 Roger Niger Archdeacon of Cholchester, made Bishop of London, in the year 1230. (sayeth Paris upon the feast day of the conversion of S. Paul) when he was at Mass in the Cathedral Church of S. Paul, a great multitude of people being there present, suddenly the weather waxed dark, so as one could scantly see another, and an horrible thunder clap lighted on the church, which so shook it that it was like to have fallen, and there of withal out of a dark cloud proceeded such a flash of such lightning, that all the church seemed to be on fire, whereupon such a stench ensued, that all men thought they should have died, thousands of men and women, ran out of the Church, and being astonished fell upon the ground, void of all sense, and understanding, none of all the multitude tarried in the church, save the Bishop & one Deacon, which stood still before the high Altar, awaiting the will of God, and when the air was cleansed, the multitude returned into the Church, and the Bishop ended the service. This Roger Niger is commended to have been a man of worthy life, excellently well learned, a notable Preacher, pleasant in talk, mild of countenance, and liberal at his table, he fell sick, and died at his Manor of Bishop's hall in Stebunheth, in the year 1241. and was buried in Paul's Church, on the North side of the Choir, in a fair Tomb of grey Marble. year 1241. Fulco Basset, Deane of York, Bishop of London, deceased on the 21. day of May, in the year 1259. (as sayeth Textor) and was buried in Paul's church. year 1259. Henry Wingham Chancellor of England, made Bishop of London, deceased in the year 1262, (sayeth Textor) and was buried in Paul's Church, on the south side without the Choir in a marble monument. year 1262. Richard Talot Bishop of London, strait ways after his consecration deceased, saith Euersden. year 1262. Henry Sandwich Bishop of London deceased in the year 1273. as the same Author affirmeth. year 1273. john Cheshull Deane of Paul's, Treasurer of England, and keeper of the great Seal, was Bishop of London, and deceased in the year 1279. saith Euersden. year 1280 Fulco Lovel, Archdeacon of Colchester, elected bishop of London, but refused the place. year 1280. Richard Gravesend, archdeacon of Northampton Bishop of London. It appeareth by the Charter warren granted to this Bishop, that in this time there were two woods in the parish of Stebunhith pertaining to the said Bishop: I have myself known the one of them by Bishop's Hall, but now they are both made plain, and not to be discerned from other grounds. Some have fabuled that this Richard Gravesend Bishop of London, in the year 1392. the 16. of Richard of second, purchased the Charter of liberties, to this City: which thing hath no possibility of truth, as I have proved, for he deceased in the year 1303. almost 90. years before that time. Fable of Richard Gravesend reproved. year 1303. Ralphe Baldoke Deane of Paul's, Bishop of London consecrated at Lions by Peter Bishop of Alba in the year 1307. he was a great furtherer of the new work of Paul's, to wit, the east end called our lady chapel, & other adjoining this Ralph deceased in the year 1313. & was buried in the said Lady Chapel, under a flat stone. year 1313. Gilbert Segraue was consecrated Bishop of London, and sat 3. years. year 1317. Richard Newport Bishop of London sat 2. years, and was buried in Paul's Church. year 1318. Stephen Gravesend Bishop of London sat 20. years. year 1338. Richard Wentworth or Bentworth, Bishop of London and Chancellor of England, deceased the year 1339. year 1339. Ralphe Stratford Bishop of London, he purchased the piece of ground called Nomans land, besides Smithfield, and dedicated it to the use of burial, as before hath appeared: he was borne at Stratford upon Auon: and therefore builed a chapel to S. Thomas there, he sat 14. years, deceased at Stebinhith. year 1354. Michael Norbroke Bishop of London deceased in the year 1361. saith Mirimouth, sat 7. years. year 1362. Simond Sudbery Bishop of London sat 13. years, translated to be archbishop of Canterbury in the year 1375. year 1375. William Courteny translated from Hereford to the bishopric of London, and after translated from thence to the archbishopric of Canterbury in the year 1381. year 1381. Robert Brey broke Cannon of Lichfielde, Bishop of London, made Lord Chancellor in the 6. of Richard the second, sit Bishop 20. years, and deceased in the year 1404, he was buried in the said Lady chapel at Paul's. year 1405. Roger Walden Treasurer of England, Archbishop of Canterbury, was deposed and after made Bishop of London: he deceased in the year 1406. and was buried at S. bartilmew's priory in Smithfield. year 1506. Nicholas Bubwithe Bishop of London, Treasurer of England, translated to Salisbury, and from thence to bath, and lieth buried at Wells. year 1407. Richard Clifford removed from Worcester to London, deceased 1422. as saith Thomas Walsingham, and was buried in Paul's. year 1422. john Kempe fellow of Martin college in Oxford, was made Bishop of Rochester, from whence removed to Chichester, and thence to London: he was made Lord Chancellor in the year 1425. the 4. of Henry the sixth, and was removed from London to York in the year 1426. he sat Archbishop thence 25. years, and was translated to Canterbury: he was afterwards made Cardinal in the year 1352. In the Bishop of London's house at Fulham he received the Cross, and the next day the Pale at the hands of Thomas Kempe Bishop of London, he deceased in the year 1454. year 1426. William Grace Deane of York, consecrated Bishop of London, who founded a college at Thele in Hartfordshire for a Master & 4. canons, and made it a cell to Elsing Spittle in London it had of old time been a college decayed, and therefore newly founded●●hee● was translated to Lincoln 1431. year 1432. Robert Fitzhugh Archdeacon of Northampton, consecrated Bishop of London, sat 5. years, deceased in the year 1435, and was buried on the south side of the Choir of Pawles. year 1435 Robert Gilbert Doctor of Divinity, Deane of York, consecrated Bishop of London, sat 12. years, deceased 1448. year 1449. Thomas Kempe, Archdeacon of Richmond, consecrated Bishop of London at York house, (now White hall) by the ha●des of his uncle john Kempe, Archbishop of Canterbury, the eight of February, 1449. he founded a Chapel of the Trinity in the body of S. Paul's Church on the North side, he sat Bishop of London 39 years, and 48. days, and then deceased in the year 1489. was there buried. year 1489 john Martial Bishop of London deceased in the year 1393. year 1493. Richard Hall bishop of London, deceased 1495. and was buried in the body of S. Paul's Church. year 1496. Thomas Savage first bishop of Rochester, than bishop of London 5. years, was translated to York 1501. where he sat Archbishop 7. years, and was there buried in the year 1507. year 1502. William Warrham Bishop of London, made keeper of the great Seal, sat 2. years, was translated to Canterbury year 1504 William Barons Bishop of London, sat 10. months, and 11. days, deceased in the year 1505. year 1505. Richard Fitz james fellow of Martin College in Oxford in the reign of Henry the 6. was made Bishop of Rochester, after bishop of Chchester, and then Bishop of London, he deceased 1521. and lieth buried hard beneath the Northwest pillar of the steeple in Paul's, under a fair Tomb of Marble, now removed, over the which was builded a fair Chapel of timber, with stairs mounting thereunto: this chapel was burned with fire from the steeple. 1561. year 1521. Cuthbert Tunstal, doctor of law, Master of the rolls, Lord Privy Seal, and bishop of London, was thence translated to the bishopric of Durham in the year 1529. year 1529. john Stokley Bishop of London sat 13. years, deceased in the year 1539, and was buried in the Lady chaple in Pau●es. year 1539. Edmond Boner Doctor of the civil law, Archdeacon of Leycester, was elected to London in the year 1539. being then Bishop of Hereforde, whilst he was beyond the ●eas Ambassador for the King. On the first of Septemb. 1549. he preached at Paul's Cross, for the which sermon he was charged before the king's council by William Latimer Pa●son of S. Laurence Poltney, and john Hoper, sometime a white Monk, and being convented before certain Commissioners at Lambeth, was for his disobedienc● to the king's order on the 20. day of the same month ●ent to the Marshalsey and deprived from his bishopric. year 1550. Nicolas Ridley bishop of Rochester, was elected Bishop of London. This man by his deed dated the xii. day after Christmas, in the 4. year of Edward the 6. gave to the king the manors of Branketrie & Southminster, and the patronage of the church of Cogshall in Essex, the Manors of Stebunheth, otherwise called Stebinhith and Hackney, in the County of Middlesex, and the Marsh of Stebunheth or Stebinhith: and the advowson of the vi●●arage of the Parish Church of Cogshall in Essex aforesaid: which grant was confirmed by the Dean & Chapter of Paul's, the same day and year, with exception of such lands in Southminster, Stebunheth and Hacknoy, as only pertained to them. The said King Edward by his letters patents dated the 16. of April in the said 4. year of his reign granted to Sir Thomas Wentworth, L. Wentworth L. Chamberlain of the kings household, for his good service before done (a part of the late received gift) to wit, the Lordships of Stebunheth and Hackney, and the lands in Shoreditch, Holiwel street. White chapel, Stratford at Bow, Poplar, Northstréete, Lymehouses, Ratliffe, Clevestréete, Brockestréete, Myle-end, Bletenehall green, Oldford, Westheth, Kingsland Shakelwel, Newinton street, Clopton, Churchstréete, welstréete, Humbarton, Grovestréete, Gunston street, alias Morestréete in the county of Middlesex, together with the Marsh of Stebinhith etc. the Manor of Hackney was valued at lxi. ●. ix●●.i●. ●. by year; and the Manor of Stebunhith at cxl. ●. viii, ● xi, ●. ob. by year. This Bishop Nicolas Ridley, for preaching a Sermon at Paul's Cross, on the 16. of july in the year 1553. was committed to the Tower of London, where he remained prisoner till the 10. of April in the year 1554. and was thence sent to Oxford, there to dispute with the Divines and learned men of the contrary opinion: and on the 16. of October 1555. he was burned at Oxford for opinions against the Romish order of Sacraments etc. year 1553. Edmond Boner aforesaid being released out of the Marshalsey, was restored to the bishopric of London, by Queen Mary, on the 5. of August in the year 1553. & again deposed by Queen Elizabeth, in the month of july An. 1559. and was eftsoons committed to the Marshalsey, where he died on the 5. of Septemb. 1569. and was at midnight buried amongst other prisoners in S. George's Churchyard. year 1559. Edmond Grindal Bishop of London, being consecrated the 21 of December 1559. was translated to York, in the year 1570. and from thence removed to Canterbury, in the year 1574. he died blind 1583. On the 6. of july, and was buried at Crodowne in Surrey. year 1570. Edwine Sands being translated from Worcester to the Bishopric of London in the year 1570. was thence translated to York in the year 1576. and died in the year 1588. year 1576. john Elmere Bishop of London deceased in the year 1594. on the 3. of june, at Fulanham, and was buried in Paul's Church, before S. George's chapel. year 1594. Richard Fletcher, Bishop of Worcester, was on the 30. of December in Paul's Church elected Bishop of London, and deceased on the 15. of june 1596. He was buried in Paul's Church, without any solemn funeral. year 1597. Richard Bancroft doctor of Divinity, now sitteth Bishop of London in this year 1598. being en●taled there. This much for the succession of the Bishops of London, whose Diocese containeth the city of London, the whole shires in Middlesex and Essex, & a part of Hartfordshire. These Bishops have for Assistants in the cathedral Church of S. Paul's, a Dean, a chanter, a Chancellor, a Treasurer, 5. Archdeacon's, to wit, London, Middlesex, Essex, Colchester and S. Albon, and 30. prebendaries: there appertaineth also to the said Church for furniture of the Choir in divine service, and ministration of the sacraments, a College of xii. petychanens, 6. vickars, choral & Queristars. etc. This diocese is divided into Parishes, every Parish having his Parson, or vicar at the lest, learned men for the most part, and sufficient Preachers to instruct the people. There were in this city & within the suburbs thereof in the reign of Henry the 2. (as writeth Fitz Stephens) 13. great conventual Churches, besides the lesser sort called Parish Churches, to the number of 126. all which conventual Churches, and some others since that time founded, are now suppressed and gone, except the cathedral Church of S. Paul in London, and the college of S. Peter at Westminster: of all which Parish Churches though I have spoken, yet for more ease to the reader, I will here again set them down in manner of a Table, not by order of alphabet, but as they be placed in the wards and suburbs. Parish Churches. In Portsoken ward Parish Churches 3. The Hospital of S. Katheren serveth for that liberty. Trinity in the Minories, for precinct thereof. S. Buttolph by Aldgate, the only Parish church for that ward. 2 In Towrestréete ward. 4. In the Tower S. Peter, for the Inhabitants there. All-hallows Barking by the Tower. S. Olaue, in heart street. S. Dunstone, in the East. 3 In Aldgate ward. 3. S. Katharene Christ's Church. S. Andrew's undershafte. S. Katheren Colman Churth. 4 In Lymestréete ward none. There was S. Mary at the Axe, and S. Augustin in the wall, both suppressed and united, the one to All-hallows in the Wall, in Brodestréete ward, the other to S. Andrew Undershafte in Lymestréete ward. 5 In Bishopsgate ward 3. S. Buttolphes without Bishopsgate. S. Ethelburge within the Gate. S. Helen's adjoining to the Nun's Priory. 6 In Brodestréete ward 6. All-hallows by the Wall. S. Peter, the Poor. S. Martins Oteswitche. S. Benet Fynke, S. Bartilmew by the Exchange. S. Christopher by the stocks market. 7 In Cornhill ward 2. S. Peter upon Cornhill. S. Michael upon Cornhill. 8 In Langborne ward 7. S. Gabriel Fenchurch. S. Dyones Backchurch. All-hallows in Lombardestréete. S. Edmond in Lombardestréete. Alhalowes Standing at Mart lane end. S. Nicolas Acon in Lombardestréete. S. Marry Wolnoth in Lombardestréete. 9 In Billingsgate ward 5. S. Buttolphe by Billingsgate. S. Marry on the Hill. S. Margaret Patens. S. Andrew Hubert in Eastcheap. S. George in Buttolphe lane. 10 In Bridgewarde within 4. S. Magnus at the bridge foot. S. Margaret bridge street. S. Leonard Milkechurch Fishstréet hill. S. Benet grass church. 11 In Candlewike street 5. S. Clements Eastchepe. S. Marry Abchurch. S. Michael in crooked lane, sometime a College. S. Martin's Orgars. S. Laurence Pountney, sometime a College. 12 In Walbrooke ward 5. S. Swithen by London stone. S. Marry Woolchurch. S. Stephen by Walbrooke. S. john upon Walbrooke. S. Marry Bothaw. 13 In Downegate Warde 2. All-hallows Hay wharf, in the Ropery. All-hallows the less, in the Ropery. 14 In the vintry Ward 4. S. Michael Pater noster in the Royal sometime a College. S. Thomas Apostles. S. Martin in the vintry. S. james at Garlic Hith. 15 In Cordwainer street ward 3. S. Anthony in Budge row. S. Marry Aldmary church. S. Marry Bow at the North corner of Cordwayner street. 16 In Cheap Ward 7. S. Benet Shorhoge, or Sith. S. Pancrate by sopar's lane. S. Mildred in the Poultry. S. Marry Colchurch. S. Martin Pomerie in Ironmonger lane. All-hallows in honey lane. S. Laurence in the jury. The Chapel at Guildhall, sometime a College. 17 In Colemanstreete Warde. 4. S. Olaue in the old jury. S. Margaret in Lothburie. S. Stephen in Colemanstréet. 18 In Bassings hall ward 1. S. Michael at Bassings Hall. 19 In Cripplegate ward 6. S. Marry Aldermanburie. S. Alphage sometime an Hospital of Elsing. S. Marry Magdalen in Milkestréete. S. Albon in Woodstréete. S. Michael in Hugen lane. S. Gyles without Criplesgate. 20. In Aldersgate ward 6. S. Marry Staining S. john Zachary. S. Olaue in Siluerstreet. S. Leonard in Foster lane. S. Anne by Aldersgate. S. Buttolph without Aldersgate. 21. In Faringdon ward within. The Cathedral church of S. Paul, and parish churches 9 S. Peter's at the cross in Cheap. S. Fauster in Foster lane. Christ Church made a parish church of the Grey friars church and of two parish churches, Saint Nicholas and Saint Ewin, and also an Hospital for poor children. S. Matthew in Friday street. S. Augustine by Paul's gate. S. Faith under Paul's church. S. Martin's at Ludgate. S. Anne at the black Friars. S. Michael at corn by Paul's gate. Chapel of S. james by Cripplegate. 22 In Bredstréet ward 4. All-hallows in Bredstréete. S. Mildred's in Bredstréete. S. john Evangelist in Friday street. S. Margaret Moses in Friday street. 23 In Queen Hith Ward 7. S. Trinity in Trinity lane. S. Nicholas Cold Abbey. S. Nicholas Olaue. S. Marry Mounthaunt. S Michael at Quéenehith. S. Marry at summers heath. S. Peter's at Paul's wharf. 24. In Castle Baynard's Ward 4. S. Benet Hude (or heath) by Paul's Wharfe. S. Andrew by the Wardrobe. S. Marry Magdalen in old fishstréet S. Gregory by Paul's church. 25. In Faringdon Ward without. 7. S. Sepulchre without Newgate. S. Andrew in Oldborne. S. Dunstone in the West S. Bartholomew by the Priory. S. Bartholomew the Hospital. S. Bridget or Brides in Fléetstréet. S. Parnell in the Temple for the students there. 26. In the Borough of Southwark, and Bridge Warde without 4. S. saviour's in Southwark made of twain, viz. S. Mary Magdalen, and S. Margaret. Diocese of Winchester. S. George the Martyr. S. Thomas the Hospital. S. Olaue in Southwark. Thus have ye in the 26. Wards of London and Borough of Southwark, parish Churches to the number of 1/4. And in the suburbs adjoining, parish Churches 9 as followeth. S. Marry Magdalen at Bermondsey in the Borough of Southwark, Diocese Winton. S. Marry Matfelon White chapel. S. Leonard Shoreditch. john Baptist Clerkenwell. S. Gyles in the field, sometime an Hospital, S. Clement Danes without Temple bar. S. john Baptist Savoy an Hospital in the Duchy of Lancaster. In the City of Westminster that liberty as followeth. The College of S. Peter called Westminster: parish churches twain. S. Margaret a parish church by Westminster. S. Martin in the field by Charing cross. Thus have ye in the Wards of London and in the suburbs of the same city, the Borough of Southwark, and the city of Westminster parish churches 123. The Hospitals in this City and suburbs thereof, that have been of old time, and now presently are, I read of these as followeth. HOspital An hospital for frenzy people in Tower street Warde. of S. Mary in the parish of Barking church that was provided for poor priests, and others, men and women, in the City of London, that were fallen into frenzy or loss of their memory, until such time as they should recover, was since suppressed and given to the Hospital of S. Katherine by the Tower. S. Anthony's, S. Anthony's in Brodestreet Warde. an Hospital of 13. poor men and college, with a free school, for poor men's children, founded by citizens of London, lately by john Tear, first a Brewer and then a Mercer, in the Ward of Brodestréet, suppressed in the reign of Edward the sixth the school in some sort remaining, but sore decayed. S. Bart●lmew in Smithfield, S. Bartilmew in Smithfild. an Hospital of great receipt, and relief for the poor, was suppressed by Henry the eight, and again by him given to the city, and is endowed by the citizen's benevolence. S. Gyles in the fields S. Giles in the fields. was an Hospital for leprous people out of the city of London, and shire of Middlesex, founded by Matilde the Queen, wife to Henry the 1. and suppressed by K. Henry the 8. S john of jerusalem S. john of jerusalem, for defence of the Rhodes. by Westsmithfield, an Hospital of the knights of the Rhodes, for maintenance of soldiers against the Turks and Infidels was suppressed by king Henry the eight. S. james S. james in the field. in the field, was an Hospital for leprous virgins of the city of London, founded by citizens for that purpose, and suppressed by king Henry the eight. S. john at Savoy, S. john's at Savoy. an Hospital for relief of one hundredth poor people, founded by Henry the seventh, suppressed by Edward the sixth. Again new founded, endowed and furnished by Queen Mary, and so remaineth. S. Katherine by the Tower S. Katherine by the Tower. of London, an Hospital with a Master, brethren and sisters and alms women, founded by Matilde wife to king Stephen, not suppressed, but in force as afore. S. Marry within Criplesgate, an Hospital Hospital of Elsing or Elsing Spittle. founded by William Elsing, for an hundred blind people of the city, was suppressed by King Henry the eight. S. Marry Bethelem S. Marry Bethlem. without Bishopsgate was an Hospital founded by Simon Fitzmary a Citizen of London to have been a Priory: and remaineth for lunatic people, being suppressed, and given to Christ's Hospital. S. Marry without Bishopsgate was an Hospital & Priory called S. Marry Spittle, S. Marry Spittle founded by a citizen of London, for relief of the poor, with provision of 180. beds there for the poor, it was suppressed in the reign of king Henry the eight. S. Marry Rouncivall S. Marry Rounsivall. by Charing cross, was an Hospital, suppressed with the Priories Aliens, in the reign of King Henry the 5. then was it made a brotherhood in the 15. of Edward the fourth, and again suppressed by king Edward the sixth. S. Thomas S. Thomas of Acon. of Acres in Cheap, was an Hospital for a Master and brethren (in the record called Militia) it was surrendered and sold to the Mercers. S. Thomas in Southwark S. Thomas in Southwark. being an Hospital of great receipt for the poor, was suppressed, but again newly founded, and endowed by the benevolence and charity of the citizens of London. An Hospital there was without Aldersgate, Hospital without Aldersgate a cell to the house of Clunie, of the French order, suppressed by K. Henry the 5. An Hospital there was without Criplesgate, Hospital without Criple●ate. also a like Cell to the said house of Clunie, suppressed by King Henry the 5. A third Hospital was there in Oldborne, Hospital in Oldborne. being also a Cell to the said house of Clunie, and was suppressed by king Henry the 5. The Hospital, (or Alms house, called God's house God's house at Whittington College. ) for 13. poor men, with a College called Whittington College, founded by Richard Whittington Mercer, & suppressed, but the poor remain, and are paid their allowance by Mercers. Christ's Hospital Christ's hospital. in Newgate market of a new foundation in the Greyfryers Church by King Henry the eight: poor fatherless children be there brought up and nourished at the charges of the citizens. Bridewell now an Hospital Hospital of Bridewell. (or house of correction) founded by king Edward the sixth to be a workhouse for the poor and idle persons of the City, wherein a great number of vagrant persons be now set a work, and relieved at the charges of the citizens. Of all these Hospitals being twenty in number, you may read before, as also of good and charitable provisions made for the poor, by sundry well disposed citizens. Now of leprous people, and lazar houses. IT is to be observed, that leprous persons were always for avoiding the danger of infection, to be separated from the sound: God himself commanding to put out of the host every leper, etc. Numbers 5. Whereupon I read in a provincial smode holden at Westminster by Hubert Archbishop of Canterbury, in the year of Christ 1200. the second of King john it was decreed according to the institution of the Lateran counsel, that when so many leprous people were assembled, that might be able to build a church with a church yard for themselves, and to have one especial Priest of their own, that they should be permitted to have the same without contradiction so they be not injurious to the old churches, by that which was granted to them for pities sake: And further it was decreed, that they be not compelled to give any tithes of their gardens or increase of cattle. I have moreover heard that there is a writ in our Law, de leproso amovendo, leprous persons to be voided the City. and I have read that King Edward the third in the 20. year of his reign, gave commandment to the Mayor and Sheriffs of London, to make proclamation in every Ward; of the City and suburbs, that all leprous persons inhabiting there should avoid within fifteen days next, and that no man suffer any such leprous person t● abide within his house, upon pain to forfeit his said house, and to incur the kings further displeasure: And that they should 'cause the said Lepers to be removed into some out places of the fields, from the ha●●t or Company of sound people, whereupon certain Lazar houses (as may be supposed) were then builded without the City, some good distance, to wit, the lock without Southwark in Kent street, one other betwixt the Miles end, and Stratforde Bow, one other at Kingesland, betwixt Shoreditch, and Stoke Newington, and an other at knights Bridge, west from Charing Crosse. Lazar house● builded. These four I have noted to be erected for the receipt of Leprouse people, sent out of the City at that time. Finally I read that one William Pole Yeoman of the Crown, being stricken with a Leaproste, was desirous to build an Hospital, with a Chapel to the honour of S. Anthony for the relief and harborough of such Leprouse persons, as were destitute in the kingdom, to the end they should not be offensive to other in their passing to and fro, for the which cause Edward the fourth did by his Charter dated in the 1●. of his reign give unto the said William for ever a certain parcel of his land lying in his high way of Highgate, and Holloway, within the County of Middlesex, containing 60. foot in length, and 34. in breadth. The temporal government of this City, somewhat in brief manner. THis City of London being under the government of the Britons, Romans', and Saxons, Patent. the most ancient and famous city of the whole realm was at length destroyed by the Danes, Aserius' Meneven. and left desolate: Florencius Wigor. as may appear by our histories. Marianus Scotus. But Aelfred king of the west Saxons, having brought this whole realm (from many parts) into one Monarchy, honourably repaired this City, and made it again habitable, and then committed the custody thereof to his son in law Adhered Earl of Mercia: after whose decease the City with all other possessions, pertaining to the said Earl returned to king Edward surnamed the elder● etc. And so remained in the king's hands, being governed under him by Portgraves (or Portreves Portgraves'. ) which name is compounded of the two Saxon words, port, and Gerefe or ● port betokeneth a Town, and Gerefe signifieth a Guardian, ruler, or keeper of the town. These Governors of old time (saith Robert Fabian Robert Fabian. ) with the laws and customs then used within this city, were registered in a book called the dooms day, in the Saxon tongue: but of later days when the said laws and customs were changed, and for that also the said book was of a small hand, and sore defaced, it was less set by, so that it was imbeseled, and lost. Thus far Fabian. Notwithstanding I have found by feareth of divers old Registers and other records, namely in a book sometime appertaining to the Monastery o● S. Albon, Lively S. Albani. of the Portgraves and other governors of this City as followeth. First, that in the reign of king Edward the last before the conquest, Wolfegare was Portgrave: as may appear by the charter of the same king, Citizens of London called Burgesses. in these words● Edward 〈…〉 Alfward 〈…〉 Wolf grave my 〈…〉 the Burgesses in London. And afterward that in an other, king Edward greeteth William Bishop and Leofstane, and Alffi Portgraves. In the reign of William Conqueror, William Bishop of London, procure● of the said Conqueror his charter of liberties, to the same W. Bishop and Godfrey, Portgrave, and to all the Burgesses of the city of London, in as large form as they enjoyed the same in the time of K. Edward before the conquest: and then in the reign of the said Conqueror, and of William Rufus, Godfrey de Magnaville was Portgrave (or Sheriff) as may appear by their Charters, and one Richard de Par was Provost. Provostes. In the reign of King Henry the first, Hugh Buche was Portgrave, and Leofstanus Goldsmith Provost. After them Aubery de Vere was Portgrave, & Robert Bar querel Provost. 'tis Auberie de Vere was slain in the reign of K. Stephen. Sheriffs. It is to be noted also that K. Henry the 1. granted to the citizens of London, the Shrivewicke thereof, and of Middlesex, as in another place before is showed. In the reign of King Stephen, Gilbet Becket was Portgrave, and Andrew Buchevet Provost. After him, Godfrey Magnavile, the son of William, the son of Godrey Magnavile, by the gift of Maulde the Empress, was Portgrave or Sheriff of London and Middlesex, forth yearly farms of three hundredth pound, as appeareth by the Charter. In the time of King Henry the second, Peter Fitz Walter was Portgrave: after him, john Fitz Nigel was Portgrave: after him, Ernulfus Buchel became Portgrave: and after him, William Fitz Isabell. These Portgraves' Portgraves, since called shrives and judges of ●● King's Court and have therefore vr●der shriuesm●● learned in th● law, to sit in their Courts. Domesmen or judges of the kings Court. are also in divers records called Uicecounties, Uicounties, or Sheriffs, as being under an Earl, for that they then, as since, used that office as the Sheriffs of London do till this day. Some authors do call them Domesmen, Eldermen, or judges of the King's Court. William Fitz Stephen noting the estate of this City, and government thereof, in his time under the reign of King Stephen, and of Henry the second, hath these words. This City (saith he) even as Rome, is divided into words, it hath yearly Sheriffs in stead of Consuls, it hath the dignity of Senators and Aldermen, it hath under Officers, & according to the quality of laws, it hath several Courts, and general assemblies upon appointed days. Thus much for the antiquity of Sheriffs, and also of Aldermen, in several Wards of this city, may suffice. And now for the name of Bailiffs, and after that, of Mayor I find as followeth. In the first year of King Richard the first, the citizens of London obtained to be governed by 2. Bailiffs, Bailiffs of London. which balliffes are in divers ancient deeds called shrives, according to the speech of the law, which called the Shire Balliva, for that they like as the Portgraves, used the same office of Shrivewicke, for the which the city paid to fee farm of three hundredth pounds yearly as afore, since the reign of Henry the first, which also is yet paid by the city into the Exchequer until this day. They also obtained to have a Mayor, to be their principal Governor and Lieutenant of the city, as of the King's chamber. year 1189. The names of the first Bailiffs (or Officers) entering into their office at the feast of Saint Michael Th'archangel, in the year of Christ 1189. were named Henry Cornhill, & Richard Reynere, Bailiffs or Sheriffs. Their 1. M. was H. Fitz Alwin, Fitz Liefstane Goldsmith, First Mayor of London, appointed by the said king, and continued M. from the first of Richard the first, until the fifteenth of king john, which was twenty four years and more. year 1190. The second of R. the first, sheriffs john Herlion, Roger Duke. Maior. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1191. The third or R. the first, sheriffs William Hauerill, john Bucknote. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1192. The fourth of R. sheriffs Nicholas Duke, Peter Newlay. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1193. The fift of R. sheriffs Roger Duke, Richard Fitz Alwin. Maior Henry Eitz Alwin. year 1194. The 6. of R. sheriffs William Fitz Isabill, William Fitz Arnold. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1195. The seventh of R. sheriffs Robert Besaunt, joke de joshua. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1196. The eight of R. sheriffs Gerard de Anteloche, Robert Durant. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1197. The ninth of R. sheriffs Roger Blunt, Nicholas Ducket. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1198. The tenth of R. sheriffs Constantine Fitz Arnold, Richard de Beaco. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. King john began his reign the sixth of April, 1199. year 1199. The first of King john, sheriffs Arnold Fitz Arnold, Richard Fitz Bartilmew. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. King john granted the shrifforicke of London and Middlesex, to the Citizens thereof, as king Henry the first before him had done, for the sum of three hundredth pound yearly. Also he gave them authority to choose and deprive their sheriffs at their pleasure. year 1200. The second sheriffs Roger Dorsit, james Bartilmew. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1201. The third sheriffs, Walter Fitz Alis, Simon de Aldermanburic. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1202. The fourth sheriffs, Norman blundel, john de Glie. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1203. The fift sheriffs, Walter Browne, William Chamberlain. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1204. The sixth sheriffs, Thomas Havarell, Hamond Brond. M. Henry Fitx Alwin. year 1205 The seventh sheriffs, john Walgrave, Richard Winchester. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1206. The eight sheriffs, john Holiland, Edmond Fitz Garrard. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1207. The ninth sheriffs, Roger Winchester, Edmond Hardle. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1208. The tenth sheriffs, Peter Duke, Thomas Nele. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. The King by his letters patents, granted to the citizens of London, liberty and authority yearly to choose to themselves a Mayor. year 1209. The eleventh sheriffs, Peter le joshua, William Blund. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1210. The twelfth sheriffs, Adam Whetley, Stephen Grace. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin year 1211. The thirteenth sheriffs, john Fitz Peter, john Garland. M. Henry Fitz Alwin. year 1212. The fourteenth sheriffs, Randolfe Giland, Constantin joshua. Maior Henry Fitz Alwin. This Henry Fitz Alwin deceased, and was buried in the Priory of the holy Trinity, near unto Aldgate. year 1213. The fifteenth sheriffs, Martin Fitz Alis, Peter Bate. M. Roger Fitz Alwin. This year the ditch about London was begun to be made of two hundredth foot broad, by the Londoners. year 1214. The sixteenth sheriffs, Solomon Basin, Hugh Basin. Mayor Sorle Moroor. year 1215. The seventeenth sheriffs, john travar's, Andrew Neuland. M. William Hardle. King Henry the third, began his reign the 19 of October, 1216. year 1216 The 1. sheriffs, Benet Senturer, William Bluntivars. M. james Alderman for part, and Solomon Basin for part. year 1217. The second sheriffs, Thomas Bokerell, Ralph Eiland. Mayor, Serle Mercer. year 1218. The third Sheriffs, john Viel, john le Spicer. Mayor, Serle Mercer. The forest of Middlesex, and the waren of Stanes, were this year disasorested. year 1219. The fourth Sheriffs, Richard Wimbledon, john Viel. Mayor, Sorle Mercer. year 1220. The fift sheriffs, Richard Renger, john Viel. Mayor, Serle Mercer. year 1221. The sixth sheriffs, Richard Renger, Thomas Lambart. Mayor, Serle Mercer. year 1222. The seventh sheriffs, Richard Rengar, Thomas Lambart. Mayor, Serle Mercer Constantine Fitz Alulf raised great troubles in this city, and was hanged with his Nephew and other. year 1223. The eight sheriffs, john travar's, Andrew Bokerell. Mayor, Richard Rengar. year 1224. The ninth sheriffs, john travar's, Andrew Bokerell. Mayor, Richard Rengar. The King granted to the commonalty of London, to have a common seal. year 1225. The tenth sheriffs, Roger Duke, Martin Fitz William. Maior Richard Rengar. year 1226. The eleventh sheriffs, Roger Duke, Martin Eitz William. M. Richard Renger. This year the King confirmed to the citizens of London, free waren or liberty to hunt a certain circuit about the city, in the waren of Stanes, etc. And also that the citizens of London should pass tole-frée throughout all England, & that the keddles (or wears) in the river of Thames, and midway should be plucked up and destroyed for ever, etc. year 1227. The twelfth sheriffs, Stephen Bokerell, Henry Cocham. Mayor, Roger Duke. year 1228. The 13. Sheriffs, Stephen Bokerell, Henry Cocham. Mayor Roger Duck. year 1229. The 14. Sheriffs, William Winchester, Robert Fitz john. Mayor Roger Duck. year 1230. The 15. Sheriffs, Richard Walter, john de Woborne. Maior Roger Duck. year 1231. The 16. Sheriffs, Michael S. Helan. Walter de Buffell. Maior. Andrew Bokerell Peperar. year 1232. The 17. Sheriffs, Henry de Edmonton, Gerard Bat. M. Andrew Bokerell Peperar. year 1233. The 18. Sheriffs, Simon Fitz Mary, Roger Blunt. M. Andrew Bokerell. Peperar. year 1234. The 19 Sheriffs, Ralph Ashwye, john Norman. M. Andrew Bokerell Peperar. year 1235. The 20. Sheriffs, Gerard Bat, Richard Hardle. M. Andrew Bokerell Peperar. This year Walter Brune citizen of London, and Rosia his wife, founded S. Marry Spittle without Bishop's gate. year 1236. The 21. Sheriffs, Henry Cocham, lordan of Coventry. M. Andrew Bokerell Peperar year 1237. The 22. Sheriffs, john Toloson, Gerueis the Cordwaynar. M. Andrew Bokerell Peperar year 1238. The 23. Sheriffs, john Codras, john Wilhall. M. Ri. Rengar. year 1239. The 24. Sheriffs, Roger Bongey, Ralph Ashwy. M. William loyner. This Wil joiner, builded the quire of the Grey friars church in London, and became a lay brother of that house. year 1240. The 25. Sheriffs, john Guysors, Michael Tony. M. Gerard Bat. This year, Aldermen of London were chosen, and changed yearly, but that order lasted not long. year 1241. The 26. Sheriffs, Thomas Duresme, john Viel. M. Roger Bongy. year 1242. The 27. Sheriffs, john Fitz john, Ralph Ashwy. M. Roger Longey. year 1243. The 28. Sheriffs, Hugh Blunt, Adam Basin. M. Ralph Ashwy. year 1244. The 29. sheriffs, Ralph Foster, Nicholas Bat. Maior, Michael Tony. year 1245. The 30. sheriffs, Robert of Cornhill, Adam of Bomtley. Mayor, john Guysors Peperar. year 1246. The 31. sheriffs, Simon Frowicke, Laurence Fitz Marie. M. john Guysors, Peperar. Simon Fitz Marie, founded the Hospital of Marie, called Bethelem, without Bishopsgate. year 1247. The 32. sheriffs, john Viel, Nicholas Bat. Maior, Peter Fitz Alwin. year 1248. The 33. sheriffs, Nicholas Fitz losey, Geffrey Winchester. Mayor, Michael Tonny. year 1249. 34. sheriffs, john Tholason, Richard Hardell. M. Roger Fitz Rengar. year 1250. The 35. sheriffs, Humphrey Bas, William Fitz Richard. Maior, john Norman. The King granted that the Mayor should be presented to the Barons of the Exchequer, and they should admit him. year 1251. The 36. sheriffs, Laurence Frowicke, Nicholas Bas. Maior, Adam Basin. year 1252. The 37. sheriffs, William Durham, Thomas Wimborne. M. john Tolason Draper. The liberties of this city were seized, the Mayor charged that he looked not to the size of bread. year 1253. The 38. sheriffs, john Northampton, Richard Pickard. Mayor, Richard Hardell Draper. year 1254. The 39 sheriffs, Ralph Ashwie, Robert of Limon. Mayor, Richard Hardell Draper. year 1255. The 40. sheriffs, Stephen Do, Henry Walmond, Richard Hardle Draper. The Mayor, divers Aldermen, and the sheriffs of London, were deprived, and other placed in their rooms. year 1256. The 41. sheriffs, Michael Bockerill, john the Minor, Maior, Richard Hardle Draper. year 1257. The 42. sheriffs, Richard Owel, William Ashwie. Mayor, Richard Hardle Draper. The King caused the walls of this city to be repaired and made with bulwarks. year 1258. The 43. sheriffs, Robert Cornhill, john Adrian. Mayor, Richard Hardle Draper. year 1259. The 44. sheriffs, john Adrian, Robert Cornhill. Mayor, john Guysors Peperar. year 1260. The 45. sheriffs, Adam Browning, Henry Coventrie. Mayor, William Fitz Richard. year 1261. The 46. sheriffs, johon Northampton, Richard Picard. M. William Fitz Richard. year 1262. The 47. sheriffs, john Tailor, Richard Walbrooke. Mayor, Thomas Fitz Richard. year 1263. The 48. sheriffs, Robert de Mountpiler, Osbert de Suffolk. Mayor T. Fitz T. Fitz Richard. The Citizens of London fortified the city with iron chains, drawn thwart their streets. year 1264. The 49. sheriffs, Gregory Rokesley, Thomas de Doford. M. Thomas Fitz Thomas, Fitz Richard. year 1265. The 50. sheriffs, Edward Blund, Peter Angar. Mayor, Thomas Fitz T. Fitz Richard. The chains and posts in London were plucked up, the Mayor and principal Citizens committed to ward, and Othen Constable of the Tower, was made Custos of the City, etc. year 1266. The 51. sheriffs, john Hind, john Walrauen. Mayor, William Richards. The Earl of Gloucester entered the city with an army, and therein builded bulwarks, cast trenches, etc. year 1267. The 52. sheriffs, john Adrian, Lucas de Batencourte. Mayor, allen le Sonche. Thomas Fitz Theobalde, and Agnes his wife, founded the Hospital of S. Thomas of Acon in Westcheape. year 1268. The 53. sheriffs, Walter Haruy, William Duresme,. T. Wimborn. M. Sir Stephen Edesworth. A variance fell in London between the Goldsmiths and the Tailors, where through many men were slain. year 1269. The 54. Sheriffs, Thomas Basin, Robert Cornhill. M. Hugh Fitz Thomas. year 1270. The 55. Sheriffs, Walter Potter, Philip Tailor. M. john Adrian Uintoner. year 1271. The 56. Sheriffs, Gregory Roksley, Henry Waleys. M. john Adrian Uintoner. The steeple of Bow Church in Cheap, fell down, and slew many people. year 1272. The 57 Sheriffs, Richard Paris, john de Wodeley. M. S. Walter Haruy. Custus, H. Frowicke Peperar, for part of that year. King Edward the first, began his reign, the 16. of November. 1272. year 1273. The 1. Sheriffs, john Horn, Walter Potter. M. Sir Walter Haruy Knight. year 1274. The 2. Sheriffs, Nicholas Winchester, Henry Coventry. M. Henry Walls. year 1275. The 3. Sheriffs, Lucas Batecorte, Henry Frowicke. M. Gregory Roksley: chief Say master of all the King's Mints, throughout England: and keeper of the King's Exchange. year 1276. The 4. Sheriffs, john Horn, Ralph Blunt. Mayor, Gregory Roksley. year 1277. The 5. Sheriffs, Robert de Arar, Ralph L. Fewre. M. Gregory Rocksley. year 1278. The 6. Sheriffs, john Adrian, Walter Langley. M. Gregory Roksley. year 1279. The 7. Sheriffs, Robert Basin, William Maraliver. M. Gregory Roksley. year 1280. The 8. Sheriffs, Thomas Fox, Ralph Delamere. M. Gregory Roksley. year 1281. The 9 Sheriffs, William Farendon, Nicholas Winchester. M. Gregory Roksley. This William Farindon Goldsmith, one of the Sheriffs, was father to Nicholas Farindon: Of these two, Farindon Warde took that name. year 1282. The 10. Sheriffs, William Maraliver, Richard Chigwell. M. Henry Walleis. This Henry Walleis builded the Tun upon Cornhill to be a prison, and the stocks to be a market house. year 1283. The 11. Sheriffs, Ralph Blund, Anketrin de Betanil. M. Henry de Walleis. year 1284. The 12. Sheriffs, jordane Goodcheape, Martin Box. Maior, Henry Walleis. Laurence Ducket Goldsmith, murdered in Bow church, and the murderers hanged. year 1285. The 13. Sheriffs, Stephen Cornhill, Robert Roksley. Mayor, Gregory Roksley. Custus, Ralph Sandwich, and john Briton. It was ordained, that Miller's should have but one half penny for a quarter of Wheat grinding, and the great water conduit in Cheap, was begun to be made. year 1286. The 14. Sheriffs, Walter Blunt, john Wade. C. Ralph Sandwich. Wheat was sold at Lon. for 16. pence, and for 12. pence the quarter. year 1287. The 15. Sheriffs. Thomas Cros. Walter Hawtoune. C. Ralph Sandwich. year 1288. The 16. Sheriffs, William Hereforde, Thomas Stanes. C. Ralph Sandwich. year 1289. The 17. Sheriffs, William Betaine, john Canterbury. C. Ralph Sandwich, Ralph Barnavars', and sir john Britain. This year a subsidy was granted, for the reparations of London Bridge. year 1290. The 18. Sheriffs, Falke S. Edmond, Solomon le Sotell. C. Sir john Birton knight. year 1291. The 19 Sheriffs, Thomas Roman, William de Liar. C. sir john Briton knight, Ralph Sandwich. year 1292. The 20. Sheriffs, Ralph Blunt, Hamo. Box. C. Ralph Sandwich. year 1293. The 21. Sheriffs, Henry Bole, Elias Russell. C Ralph Sandwich. Three men had their right hands cut off, at the Standard in Cheap, for rescuing of a prisoner, arrested by a Sergeant of London. year 1294. The 22. Sheriffs, Robert Rokesley the younger, Martin Amersbery. C. Ralph Sandwich. year 1295. The 23. sheriffs, Henry Box, Richard Gloucester, C. Sir Ralph Sandwich. year 1296. The 24. sheriffs, john Dunstable, Adam de Halingbery. C. Sir john Britton. This year all the liberties of the city were restored, the majoralty excepted. year 1297. The 25. Sheriffs, Thomas of Suffolk, Adam of Fulham. C. Sir john Briton. year 1298. The 26. Sheriffs, Richard Refham, Thomas Sely. Maior, Henry Walleis. Certain citizens of London broke up the Tun upon Cornhill, and took out prisoners, for the which they were grievously punished. year 1299. The 27. Sheriffs, john Armenter, Henry Fingene. Mayor, Elias Russell. year 1300. The 28. Sheriffs, Lucas de Hauering, Richard Champs. Mayor, Elias Russell. year 1301. The 29. Sheriffs, Robert Callor, Peter de Bosenho. Mayor, S. john Blunt Knight. year 1302. The 30. Sheriffs, Hugh Pourt, Simon Paris. Mayor, Sir john Blunt. year 1303. The 31. Sheriffs, William Combmartin, john Bucford. C. Sir john Blunt. year 1304. The 32. Sheriffs, Roger Paris, john de Lincoln. C. Sir john Blunt. Geffrey de Hertilepole Alderman, was elected to be Recorder of London, and took his oath, and was appointed to wear his apparel as an Alderman. year 1305. The 33. Sheriffs, William Cousin, Reginald Thunderley. C. Sir john Blunt. year 1306. The 34. Sheriffs, Geffrey Cundute, Simon Bilet. C. john Blunt. Sea-coal was forbidden to be burned in London, Southwark, etc. Edward the second began his reign the 7. of july, the year of Christ 1307. year 1307. The first Sheriff, Nicholas Pigot, Nigellus Drury. Mayor, Sir john Blunt. year 1308 The second Sheriffs, William Basin, james Botenar. Mayor, Nicholas Farindon Goldsmith. year 1309. The third Sheriffs, Roger le Paumer, james of S. Edmond. Mayor, Thomas Roman. year 1310. The fourth Sheriffs, Simon de Corpe, Peter Blakney. Mayor, Richard Reffam Mercer. The King commanded the Mayor and Commonalty, to make the wall of London, from Ludgate to Fléetebridge, and from thence to the Thames. year 1311 The fift Sheriffs, Simon Merwod, Richard Wilford. Mayor, Sir john Guysors Peperar. Order was taken, that Merchant strangers should cell their wares within forty days after their arrival, or else the same to be forfeited. year 1312. The sixth Sheriffs, john Lambin, Adam Lutken. Mayor, Sir john Guysors Peperar. year 1313. The seventh Sheriffs, Robert Gurden, Hugh Garton. Mayor, Nicholas Farindon Goldsmith. Prices set on victuals, a fat stalled ox four & twenty shillings, a fat mutton twenty pence, a fat goose two pence half penny, a fat capon two pence, a fat hen one penny, two chickens one penny, three pigeons one penny, twenty four eggs one penny, etc. year 1314. The eight Sheriffs, Stephen Abingdon, Hamond Chigwell. Mayor, Sir john Guysors Peperar. Famine and mortality of people, so that the quick might uneath bury the dead. Horse flesh and dogs flesh was good meat. year 1315. The nine Sheriffs, Hamond Goodchape, William Bodelay. Mayor, Stephen Abendon. year 1316. The tenth Sheriffs, William Canston, Ralph Balancer. Mayor, john Wingrave. An early Harvest, a buschell of wheat that had been sold for ten shillings, was now sold for ten pence, etc. year 1317. The eleventh Sheriffs, john Prior, William Furneiss. Mayor, john Wingrave. Such a murrain of kine, that dogs and ravens that fed on them were poisoned. year 1318. The twelfth Sheriffs, john Pontell, john Dalling. Mayor, john Wingrave. year 1319. The 13. Sheriffs, Simon Abindon, john Preston. M. Hamond Chickwell Peperar. john Guysors late Mayor of London, and many other citizens fled the city, for things laid to their charge. year 1320. The 14. sheriffs, Renauld at Conduit, William Produn. M. Nicholas Farendon Goldsmith. year 1321. The 15. sheriffs, Richard Constantine, Richard Hackney. M. Hamond Chickwell, Peperar. year 1322. The 16. sheriffs, john Grantham, Richard Elie. M. Hamond Chickwell Peperar. Fish, and flesh market, established at the stocks in the mid of the city. year 1323. The 17. sheriffs, Adam of Salisbury, john of Oxford. M. Nicholas Farindon Goldsmith. Of this Nicholas Farindon, and of William Farindon his father, read more in Farindon Warde. year 1324. The 18. sheriffs, Benet of Fulham, john Cawson. M. Hamond Chickwell Peperar. year 1325. The 19 sheriffs, Gilbert Mordon, john Cotton. M. Hamond Chickwell Peperar. The Citizens of London took the Bishop of Excester, and cut off his head, at the standard in Cheap. year 1326. The 20. sheriffs, Richard Rothing, Roger Chaunteclere. M. Richard Britain Goldsmith. This Richard Rothing, is said, to new build the Parish church of S. james, at Garlic Hithe. Edward the third, began his reign, the 25. of januarie, the year 1326. This King Edward granted, that the Mayor should be justice for the gail delivery at Newgate, that the Citizens of London should not be constrained to go out of the City of London to any war. Moore, he granted, that the liberties and franchesies of the city, should not after this time, for any cause, be taken into the king's hands, etc. year 1327. The 1. sheriffs, Henry Darcie, john Hauten. Mayor. Hamond Chickwell Peperar. This year, the Walls of London were repaired. year 1328. The 2. sheriffs, Simon Francis, Henry Combmartin. M. john Grantham. year 1329. The third sheriffs, Richard Lazar, William Guysors. Mayor, Richard Swandland. This year, the King kept a great justing in Cheap, betwixt soper's lane and the great cross. year 1330. The fourth sheriffs, Robert of Elie, Thomas Whorwode. M. Sir john Pultney Draper. year 1331. The fift sheriffs. john Mocking, Andrew Auberie. Maior. Sir john Pultney Draper. year 1332. The sixth sheriffs, Nicholas Pike, john husband. Mayor, john Preston Draper. This year was founded Elsings Spittle, by William Elsing Mercer, that became first Prior of that Hospital. year 1333. The seventh sheriffs, john Hamond, William Hansard. Mayor, Sir john Pultney Draper. year 1434. The eight sheriffs, john Hingstone, Walter Turk. Mayor, Reginald at Conduct Uintoner. year 1335. The ninth sheriffs, Walter Motdon, Richard Vpton. Mayor, Nicholas Woton. year 1336. The tenth sheriffs, john Clarke, William Curtez. Mayor, Sir john Pultney Draper. This Sir john Pultney founded a College in the Parish church of Saint Laurence by Candle week street. year 1337. The eleventh sheriffs, Walter Nele, Nicholas Crane. Maior Henry Darcy. Walter Nele Bladesmith, gave lands to the repairing of the highways about London. year 1338. The twelfth sheriffs, William Pomfret, Hugh Marbeler. Maior Henry Darcy. year 1339. The thirteenth sheriffs, William Thorney, Roger Frosham. M. Andrew Auburie Grocer. year 1340. The fourteenth sheriffs, Adam Lucas, Bartilmew Maris. Mayor, Andrew Aubery Grocer. year 1341. The fifteenth sheriffs, Richard de Barking, john de Rokesley. Mayor, john of Oxenford Uintoner. year 1342. The sixteenth sheriffs, john Loveken, Richard Riflingbury. M. Simon Francis Mercer. The price of Gascone wines at London, not to be sold above four pence the gallon, and Reinish wine six pence the gallon. year 1343. The 17. sheriffs, john Steward, john Aylesham. M. john Hamond. year 1344. The 18. sheriffs, Geffrey Wichingham, Thomas Leg. M. john Hamond. year 1345. The 19 Sheriffs, Edmond Homenhall, john of Gloucester. M. Richard Leget. year 1346. The 20. sheriffs, john Croyden, William Cloptun. M. Geffrey Witchingham. year 1347. The 21, sheriffs, Adam Brapsen, Richard Bas. M. Tho. Leggy Skinner. King Edward won Calais from the French. year 1348. The 22. sheriffs. Henry Picaid, Simon Dolseby. M. john Loveken fishmonger. A great pest. Sir Walter many Knight, founded the Charterhouse by smithfield, to be a burial for the dead. year 1349. The 23. sheriffs, Adam of Bury. Ralph of Lym. M. Walter Turk fishmonger. year 1350. The 24. sheriffs, john Notte, William Worcester. M. Richard Killingbury. year 1351. The 25. sheriffs, john Wroth, Gilbert of Stenineshorp. M. Andrew Aubury Grocer. year 1352. The 26. sheriffs, john Peche, john Stotley. M. Adam Francis Mercer. This Mayor procured an act of Parliament, that no known whore, should wear an hood, or attire on her head, except reied, or striped cloth of divers colours, etc. year 1353. The 27. sheriffs, William wild, john Little. M. Adam Francis, Mercer. This Adam Francis, was one of the founders of the College in Guildhall chapel, etc. Henry Francis was the other. year 1254. The 28. sheriffs, William Totingham, Richard Smelled. Mayor Thomas Leggy Skinner. Aldermen of London, were used to be changed yearly, but now it was ordained, that they should not be removed, without some special cause. year 1355. The 29. sheriffs, Walter Forster. Thomas Brandon. M. Simon Francis mercer. year 1356. The 30. sheriffs, Richard Nottingham, Thomas Dossell. M. Henry Picard, Uintoner. This Henry Picard, feasted the kings of England, of France, Cypress, and Scots, with other great estates, all in one day. year 8357. The 31. sheriffs, Stephen Candish, Bartilmew Frostling. Mayor, sir john Stody Uintoner. This john Stody gave tenements to the Uintoners in London, for relief of the poor of that company. year 1358. The 32. sheriffs, john Barnes, john Buris. Maior john Louekin Stockfishmoonger. year 1359. The 33. sheriffs, Simon of Benington, john of Chichister. M. Simon Dolseby Grocer. year 1360. The 34. sheriffs, john Denis, Walter Berny. M. john Wroth fishmonger. year 1361. The 35. sheriffs, William Holbech, james Tame. Maior john Peche fishmonger. year 1462. The 36. sheriffs, john of S. Albon, james Andrew. M. Stephen Gondish Draper. year 1363. The 37. sheriffs, Richard Croyden, john Litoft, M. john Not Peperar. year 1364. The 38. sheriffs, john de Mitford, Simon de Mordon. Mayor Adam of Bury Skinner. year 1365. The 29. sheriffs, john Bukulsworth, Thomas Ireland. Mayor, john Louekin fishmonger, and Adam of Bury Skinner. year 1366. The 40. sheriffs, john Warde, Thomas of Lee. M. john Lofkin, fishmonger. This john Lofkin, builded the Parish church of S. Michael in Crooked Lane. year 1367. The 41. sheriffs, john Turngold, William Dykeman. Mayor james Andrew Draper. year 1368. The 42. sheriffs, Robert Cordeler, Adam Wimondham. Mayor, Simon Mordon, Stockfishmoonger. This year, Wheat was sold for 2. shillings 6. pence the bushel. year 1369. The 43. sheriffs, john Piel, Hugh Holdich. M. Io. Chichester Goldsmith. year 1370. The 44. sheriffs, William Walworth, Robert Geyton. M. john Barnes, Mercer. year 1371. The 45. Sheriffs, Adam Staple, Robert Hatfield. Mayor, john Barnes Mercer. This john Barnes gave a chest with three locks, and one thousand Mark to be lent to poor young men. year 1372. The 46. sheriffs, john Philpot, Nicholas● Brembar. Mayor, john Piel. Mercer. year 1373. The 47. Sheriffs, john Aubury, john Fished, Mayor, Adam of Bury Skinner. year 1374. The 48. sheriffs, Richard Lions, William Woodhouse. Mayor, William Walworth Fishmonger. year 1375. The 49. sheriffs, john Hadley, william Newport. Mayor, john Ward Grocer. year 1376. The 50. sheriffs, john Northampton, Robert Land. Mayor, Adam Staple Mercer. The Londoners meant to have slain john Duke of Lancaster: Adam Staple Maior put down, and Nicholas Bremban elected. Also the Aldermen were deposed, and other set in their places. Richard the second began his reign, the 21. of june, in the year 1377. year 1377. The first sheriffs, Nicholas Twiford, Andrew Pikeman. Mayor, Sir Nicholas Brembar. Grocer. john Philpot a citizen of London, sent ships to the sea, and scoured it of Pirates, taking many of them prisoners. year 1378. The second sheriffs, john Boseham, Thomas Cornwalis. Mayor, Sir john Philpot Grocer. This Sir john Philpot gave to the city, lands for the finding of thirteen poor people for ever. year 1379. The third sheriffs, john Helisdon, William Barrat. Ma. john Hadley Grocer. year 1380. The fourth sheriffs, Walter Doget, William Knightcoate. M. William Walworth Fishmonger. This William Walworth arrested Wat Tiler the rebel, and was knighted. He increased the Parish church of Saint Michael in Crooked lane, and founded there a college. Other Aldermen were also knighted for their service in the field. year 1381. The 5. sheriffs john Rote, john Hend, M. john Northampton Draper. year 1382. The 6. sheriffs Adam Bamme, john Sely. M. john Northampton Draper. year 1383. The 7. sheriffs Simon Winchcomb, john Moore. M. sir Nicolas Brembar Grocer, john Northampton late Mayor of London, was committed to perpetual prison, and his goods confiscated. year 1384. The 8. sheriffs Nicholas Expton, john French: M. Sir Nicholas Brembar Grocer, knighted with William Walworth. year 1385. The 9 sheriffs john Organ, john Churchman. M. sir Nicholas Brembar Grocer: the foresaid john Churchman, now builded the Custom honse near to the Tower of London, and did many other works for the commodity of this city. year 1386. The 10. sheriffs, William Stondone, William More, M. Nicholas Exton Fishmonger. This year the Citizens of London fearing the French, pulled down houses near about their city, repaired their walls, and cleansed their ditches etc. year 1387. The 11. sheriffs William Venor, Hugh Forstalfe, M. Nicholas Exton Fishmonger, sir Nicholas Brember, late Mayor of London, was this year beheaded. year 1388. The 12. Thomas Austin, Adam Carlhul, M. Nicholas Tuiford Goldsmith, knighted with William Walworth. year 1389. The 13. sheriffs john Walcot, john Lovenay, M. William Venor Grocer. year 1390. The 14. sheriffs john Francis, Thomas Vivent, M. Adam Bamme Goldsmith: this Adam Bammer provided from beyond the seas Corn in great abundance, so that the City was able to serve the country. year 1391. The 15. sheriffs john Shadworth, Henry Vamer, M. john Hend Draper: this Mayor was for displeasure taken, sent to Windsor Castle, and the king made Wardens of the city. etc. year 1392. The 16. sheriffs Gilbert Maghfield, Thomas Newington, M. William Stondon Grocer, year 1393. The 17. sheriffs Drew Barentin, Richard Whitington, M. john Hadley Grocer: Farington ward was by Parliament appointed to be divided into two wards, to wit, infra & extra. year 1394. The 18. sheriffs William Brainston, Thomas Knoles, M. john Froshe Mercer. year 1395. The 19 sheriffs Roger else, William Sevenoke, M. William Moore Vintner. year 1396. The 20. sheriffs Thomas Wilford, William Parker, M. Adam Bamme Goldsmith. year 1397. The 21. sheriffs john Wodcoke, Willam Askam, M. Richard Whitington Mercer. year 1398. The 22. sheriffs john Wade, john Warnar, M. Drew Barentin Goldsmith. Henry the fourth began his reign the 29. of Septemb. the year 1399. year 1399. THe 1. sheriffs William Waldern, William Hende, M. Thomas Knoles Grocer. year 1400. The 2. sheriffs john Wakel, William Ebot, M. john Francis Goldsmith. year 1401. The 3. sheriffs, William Venor, john Framingham, M. john Shadworth, Mercer. The conduit upon Cornhill was this year made of an old prison house called the Tun. year 1402. The 4. sheriffs, Richard Marlowe, Robert Chicheley, M. john Walcote Draper. year 1403 The 5. sheriffs, Thomas Falconer, Thomas Poole, M. William Ascham Fishmonger. year 1404 The 6. sheriffs, William Bouth, Stephen Spilman, M. john Hend Draper. This john Hend was a new builder of the parish Church called S. Swithen by London stone. year 1405 The 7. sheriffs Henry Barton, William Groom, M. john woodcock Mercer, this Mayor caused all the Wears in the river of Thames, from Stanes to the river of Medway to be destroyed, and the Trinkes to be burned etc. year 1406. The 8. sheriffs, Nicholas Wooton, Geoffrey Brooke, M. Richard Whitington, Mercer. This year a great pestilence in London took away more than 30000. people. year 1407. The 9 sheriffs Henry Pontfrackt, Henry Halton, M. william Stondon Grocer. year 1408 The 10. sheriffs Thomas Duck, William Norton, M. Drew Barentine Goldsmith, This Drew Barentine builded a part of the goldsmiths hall, and gave them lands. year 1409 The 11. sheriffs, john Law, William Chichley, M. Richard Marlowe iron-monger, A great play at Skinners well, which lasted eight days, & was of matter from the creation of the world: the most part of all the great Estates of England were there to behold it. year 1410. The 12. sheriffs, john Penne, Thomas Pike, M, Thomas Knoles Grocer. This Thomas Knoles began a new to build the Guild hall in London etc. year 1411. The 13, sheriffs, john Raynwel, William Cotton. M. Robert Chicheley Grocer, year 1412. The 14. sheriffs, Ralph Lovinhinde, William Sevenoke, M. William Waldren, Mercer. Henry the fift began his reign the 20. of March, the year 1412. year 1413. THe 1. sheriffs, john Sutton, john Michael, M. William Gromar Draper, Sir john Oldcastle assembled a great power, in Ficquetes' field by London, which power was overcome and taken by the king and his power. year 1414 The 2. sheriffs, john Michael, Thomas Allen, M. Thomas Falconer Mercer, this Mayor caused the Postern called Moore gate to be builded, and he lent to the king 10000 marks upon jewels, etc. year 1415. The 3. sheriffs William Cambridge, Allin Euerard M. Nicholas Wotton Draper. year 1416. The 4. sheriffs Robert Whitington, john Coventrie, M. Henry Barton Skinner. This Henry Barton ordained Lanterns with lights to be hanged out on the Winter evenings. year 1417 The 5. sheriffs Henry Read, john Gidney, M. Richard Marlowe iron-monger. year 1418. The 6. sheriffs john Brian, Ralph Barton, john Parnesse, M. William Sevenoke. This William Sevenoke, founded in the town of Sevenoke a freeschoole, and alms houses for the poor. year 1419. The 7. sheriffs, Rob. Whitington, john Butler, M. Richard whitington Mercer, this Mayor founded Whitington College. year 1420. The 8. sheriff john Butler, john Wells, M. William Cambridge Grocer. year 1421. The 9 sheriffs Richarde Gosseline, William Weston, M. Robert Chichley Grocer. This Mayor gave one plot of ground, thereupon to build the parish church of S. Stephen upon Walbrooke. Henry the sixth began his reign the 31. of August, the year 1422. year 1422. THe first sheriffs, William Eastfielde, Robert Totarsall, M. William Waldern Mercer. This year the west gate of London was begun to be new builded by the Executors of Richard Whitington. year 1423. The 2. sheriffs, Nicholas Iames, Thomas Windford M. William Cromer Draper. year 1424. The 3. sheriffs, Simon Seman, john Bywater, M. john Michael Fishmonger. year 1425. The 4. sheriffs, William Milreth, john Brokell, M. john Coventrie Mercer. year 1426 The 5. sheriffs, john arnold, john Higham, M. john Reynwell, Fishmonger. This Mayor gave Tenements to the City for the discharge of three wards in London for fifteens etc. year 1427 The 6. sheriffs, Henry Frowicke, Robert Oteley, M. john Gidney Draper. year 1428 The 7. sheriffs, Thomas Duffehouse, john Abbot. M. Henry Berton Skinner. year 1429. The 8. sheriffs, William Russee, Ralph Holland, M. William Eastfield Mercer. Ralph Holland gave to impotent poor 120. l. to prisoners 80. l. to Hospitals 40. l. etc. year 1430. The 9 sheriffs, Walter Chartesey, Robert Large, M. Nicholas Wotton, Draper, Walter Chartesey Draper, gave to the poor 100 l. besides 20. l. to the Hospitals. etc. year 1431 The 10, sheriffs, john Aderley, Stephen Browne M. john Wels Grocer. This john Wells a great benefactor to the new building of the Chapel by the Guild Hall, and of his goods the Standard in west Cheap was made. year 1432. The 11 sheriffs, john Olney, john Paddesley, M. john Parneis Fishmonger. year 1433. The 12. sheriffs, Thomas Chalton, john Ling, M. john Brokle Draper. year 1434. The 13. sheriffs, Thomas Barnewell, Simon Eyre, M. Roger Oteley Grocer. year 1435. The 14. sheriffs, Thomas Catworth, Robert Clopton, M. Henry Frowicke Mercer. year 1336. The 15. sheriffs, Thomas Morsted, William Gregory M. john Michael Fishmonger. year 1437. The 16. sheriffs, William Hales, William Chapman, M. sir William Eastfield Mercer this sir William Eastfield knight of the Bath, a great benefactor to the water Eonduites. year 1438. The 17. sheriffs Hugh Diker, Nicholas You, M. Stephen Browne Grocer. Wheat sold for three shillings the Bushel: but this man sent into Prusia, & caused to be brought from thence certain ships laden with Rye, which did great relief. year 1439 The 18. sheriffs, Philip Malpas, Robert Martial, M. Robert Largo Mercer, Philip Malpas at his decease gave 120. l. to poor prisoners, and every year for 5. years, 400. shirts, and smocks, 40. pair of sheeets, and 150. gowns of frise, to the poor, to poor maids marriages 100 marks, to high ways 100 marks, and to 500 poor people in London every one six shillings, eight pence etc. year 1440 The 19 sheriffs, john Sutton, William Wetinhall, M. john Paddesley Goldsmith, master of the Wirkes of money in the Tower of London. year 1441 The 20. sheriffs, William Combis, Richard, Rich, M. Robert Clopton Draper. year 1442 The 21. sheriffs, Thomas Beaumont, Richard Morden, M. john Hatherley iron-monger. year 1443. The 22. sheriffs, Nicholas Wilforde, john Norman, M. Thomas Catworth Grocer. year 1444. The 23. sheriffs, Stephen Forstar, Hugh Which M. Henry Frowicke Mercer, this year Paul's steeple was fired with lightning; and hardly quenched. year 1445. 24. sheriffs, john Derby, Godfrey Filding, M. Simon Eyre Draper, this Simon Eyre builded the Leaden hall in London, to be a common garner for the city etc. year 1446. The 25. sheriffs, Robert Horn, Godfrey Bolaine, M. john Olney Mercer. year 1447. The 26. sheriffs, William Abraham, Thomas Scot M. john Sidney Draper. year 1448 The 27. sheriffs, William Catlow, William Marcow, M. Stephen Brown Grocer. year 1449 The 28. sheriffs, William Hulin, Thomas Canninges M. Thomas Chalton Mercer. This year jacke Cade a Rebel of Kent, came to London, entered the city etc. year 1450 The 29. sheriffs, john Middleton, William Dear, Mayor, Nicholas Wilforde Grocer. Soldiers made a fray against the Mayor, the same day he took his charge at Westminster. year 1451 The 30. sheriffs, Matthew Philip, Christopher Warton, M. William Gregory Skinner. year 1452 The 31. sheriffs, Richard Lee, Richard Alley, M. Godfrey Filding Mercer. This year was a great fray at the Wrestling. year 1453. The 32. sheriffs, john Waldron, Thomas Cook, M. john Norman Draper. This john Norman was the first Mayor that was rowed to Westminster by water: for before that time they road on horse back. year 1454. The 33. sheriffs, john Field, William Taylor, M. Stephen Forstar Fishmonger. This Stephen Forstar enlarged Ludgate, for the case of prisoners there. etc. year 1355. The 34. sheriffs, john Young, Thomas Olgrave M. William Marrow, Grocer. The Mercer's servants in London, made a riot upon the lombards and other strangers. year 1456. The 35. sheriffs, john Steward, Ralph Verney, M. Thomas Caning Grocer. year 1457. The 36. sheriffs, William Edwardes, Thomas Reiner, M. Godfrey Boloine Mercer. This Godfrey Boline gave 1000 l. to poor householders in London etc. year 1458. The 37. sheriffs, Ralph joceline, Richard Medham, M. Thomas Scot Draper. year 1459. The 38. sheriffs, john Plommar, john Stockar, M. William Hulin Fishmonger. year 1460 The 39 sheriffs, Richard Fleming, john Lambarde, M. Richard Lee Grocer. Edward the fourth began his reign the fourth of March, in the year 1460. after the account of the church of England. year 1461. THe first sheriffs, George, Ireland, john Locke, M. Hugh Witch Mercer. year 1462. The 2. sheriffs, William Hampton, Bartholomew james, M Thomas Cook Draper made knight of the Bath in the fift of Edward the fourth, and had great troubles after. year 1463 The 3. sheriffs, Robert Basser, Thomas Muschampe, Maior Matthew Philip Goldsmith, made knight of the Bath, the fift of Edward the fourth, and after in the field the tenth of Edward the fourth. year 1464. The 4. sheriffs, john Tate, john Stone, M. Ralph joceline Draper, knight of the Bath, and also in the field. year 1465. The 5. sheriffs, Henry Waver, William Constantine, M. Ralph Verney Mercer, Henry Waver one of the sheriffs, made knight of the Bath. year 1466. The 6. sheriffs, john Brown, Henry Brice, M. john Young Grocer, made knight in the field. This year began the troubles of Sir Thomas Cook, and of other Alderman, as ye may read in my Summarie. year 1467. The 7. sheriffs, Thomas Stalbroke, Humphrey Heyford, M. Thomas Olgrave Skinner. year 1468. The 8. sheriffs, Simon Smith, William Hariote, M. William Tayler Grocer. This Mayor gave tenements to discharge Cordwainer street ward of fifteens. year 1469 The 9 sheriffs, Richard Gardener, Robert Drop M. Richard Lee Grocer. This year the Tower of London, being delivered to the Mayor and his Brethrens, they delivered king H. from thence. year 1470. The 10. sheriffs, Sir john Crosby, john Warde. Mayor, Sir john Stokton Mercer. Thomas the Bastard Fauconbridge with a riotous company set upon this city, at Aldgate, Bishopsgate the Bridge etc. and I2. Aldermen with the Recorder were knighted in the field by Edward the fourth to wit john Stokton Maior, Ralph Verney late Mayor, john Young late Mayor, William Taylor late Mayor, Richard Lee late Mayor, Matthew Phillip's late Mayor, George Ireland, William Stoker, William Hampton since Maior, Thomas Stalbroke, john Crosby, & Bartholomew james since Maior, with Thomas Urswick Recorder. year 1471. The 11. sheriffs, john Allin john Shelley, M. William Edward Grocer. The water Conduit at Aldermanburic, and the Standard in Fleetestréete were finished. year 1472. The 12. sheriffs, john Browne, Thomas Bledlow, M. sir, William Hampton Fishmonger, this sir Wiliam Hampton punished strumpetes, and caused stocks to be set in every ward to punish vagabonds. year 1473 The 13. sheriffs, sir William Stokar, Robert Belisdon, M. john Tate Mercer. This year the sheriffs of London, were appointed each of them to have xuj. Sergeants, and six Clerks, to wit, a Secondary, a Clerk of the papers, and 4. other Clerks, besides the under sheriffs Clerks. year 1474. The 14. sheriffs, Edmond Shaw, Thomas Hill, M. Robert Drop Draper. This Robert Drop increased the water condutie upon Cornhill etc. year 1475. The 15. sheriffs, Hugh Brice, Robert Celwich, M. Robert Basset Saltar. This Robert Basset corrected the Bakers, and other Uictualers of this City. year 1476. The 16. sheriffs Richard Rawson, William Horn M. sir Ralph joceline Draper, knight of the Bath, by the diligence of this Mayor, the walls of the City were repaired. year 1477. The 17. sheriffs, Henry Collet, john Stokar, M. Humphrey Hayforde Goldsmith. year 1478. The 18. sheriffs, Robert Harding, Robert Bifielde, M. Richard Gardener Mercer, Robert Bifielde, Sheriff was fined by the Mayor and paid 50, l. toward the water Conduits. year 1479. The 19 sheriffs Thomas Ilam, john Warde, M. sir Bartholomew james Draper, made knight in the field, by E. the 4. T. Ilam newly builded the great Conduit in West Cheap. year 1480. The 20. sheriffs Thomas Daniel, William Bacon. M. john Brown Mercer. year 1481. The 21. sheriffs Robert Tate, William Wiking, M. William Hariot Draper. year 1482. The 22. sheriffs William Whit. john Matthew, M. Edmond Shakstone Goldsmith. This Edmond Shakstone caused the Postern called Criplesgate to be new builded etc. Edward the fift began his reign the 9 of April in the year 1483. Richard the third began his reign the 22. of june, in the year 1483. year 1483. THe 1. sheriffs Thomas Norland, William Martin M. Robert Bilisden Haberdasher. year 1484. The 2. sheriffs Richard Chester, Thomas Britain, Ralph Austrie, M. Thomas Hill, Grocer, sir William Stoaker Draper, john Ward Grocer. three Sheriffs and three Mayors this year by means of a sweeting sickness etc. Thomas Hill appointed by his testament the water Conduit in Grass street to be builded. Henry the seventh began his reign the 22. of August, in the year 1485. year 1485. THe 1. sheriffs john Tatte, john Swan, M. Hugh Brise Goldsmith. This Hugh Brise was keeper of the kings mints at London. year 1486. The 2. sheriffs john Parcivall, Hugh Clopton. M. Henry Cellet Mercer. The cross in Cheap was new builded in beautiful manner. year 1487. The 3. sheriffs john Fenkell, William Remington, M. sir William Horn Salter. This William Horn made knight in the field by Henry the seventh, gave to the repairing of high ways betwixt London and Cambridge 500 marks, and to the preachers at Paul's cross, etc. year 8488. The 4. sheriffs William Isaac, Ralph Tilney, M. Robert Tate Mercer. year 1489 The 5. sheriffs William Caple, john Brock, M. William White Draper. year 1490. The 6. sheriffs Henry Coat, Robert Revel Hugh Pemberton M. john Matthew Mercer. year 1491. The 7. sheriffs Thomas Wood, William Browne, M. Hugh Clopton Mercer. Hugh Clopton builded the great stone bridge at Stratford upon haven in Warwickshire. year 1492. The 8. sheriffs William Purchase, William Welbecke, M. William Martin Skinner. A riot made upon the Esterlings, by the Mercer's servants, and other. year 1493. The 9 sheriffs Robert Fabiant john Winger M. Sir Ralph Astrie Fishmonger, made knight by Henry the seventh, Robert Fabian Alderman made Fabians Chronicle, a painful labour, to the honour of the City, and the whole realm. year 1494. The 10. sheriffs Nicholas Alwine, john Warner, M. Richard Chawry Salter. year 1495. The 11. sheriffs Thomas Knesworth, Henry, Summer, M. Henry Colet Mercer. year 1496. The 12. sheriffs Sir john Shakstone, Sir Richard Haddon, M. john Tate the younger Mercer. year 1497 The 13. sheriffs Bartilmew Read, Thomas Windoute M. William Purchase Mercer. All the gardens in the Morefielde were destroyed, and made plain ground. year 1498. The 14. sheriffs Thomas Bradbury, Stephen Ienings M. Sir john Percivall Taylor, made knight in the field by Henry the seventh. year 1499 The 15. sheriffs james Wilford, Thomas Brond, M. Nicholas Alwin Mercer. This Nicholas Alwin gave to 3000. poor people in London xii. ●. the piece, and to 3000. in the town of Spalding the like, etc. year 1500. The 16. sheriffs john Hawes, William Steed, M. William Remington Fishmonger. year 1501. The 17. sheriffs Laurence Ailmer, Henry Heed, M. Sir john Shakstone Goldsmith, made knight in the field by Henry the seventh. This Sir john Shae caused his brethren the Aldermen to ride from the Guildhall unto the water's side, where he took his Barge to Westminster. year 1502. The 18 sheriffs Henry Kebell, Nicholas Nine, M. Bartholomew Read Goldsmith. year 1503. The 19 sheriffs Christopher Hawes, Robert Wats, Thomas Granger M. Sir William Capell Draper, made knight by Henry the seventh. This Sir William caused a Cage in every Ward to be set for punishing of vagabonds. year 1504 The 20. sheriffs Roger Acheley, William Browne, M. john Winger Grocer. year 1505. The 21. sheriffs Richard Shore, Roger Grove, M. Thomas Knesworth Fishmonger. This T. Knesworth appointed the water Conduit at Bishopsgate to be builded, etc. year 1506. The 22. sheriffs William Copenger, Thomas johnson, William Fitzwilliams, M. Sir Richard Haddon Mercer. year 1507. The 23. sheriffs William Butler, john Kyrkby, M. William Browne Mercer: for part Laurence Ailmer Draper. year 1508. The 24. sheriffs Thomas Exmew, Richard Smith, Mayor Stephen lenings Merchant tailor. This Stephen lenings builded the greatest part of Saint Andrew's Church called Undershaft. He builded a free school at W●frunehampton in Staffordshire, etc. Henry the eight began his reign the 22. of April the year 1509. year 1509. THe 1. sheriffs, George Monoxe, john Doget● M. Thomas Bradbury Mercer: for part Sir William Caple Draper. year 1510. The 2. sheriffs john Milborne, john Rest. Mayor Henry Keble Grocer. This Henry Keble gave 1000 pound toward the new building of his parish Church of Aldermary. year 1511. The 3. sheriffs Nicholas Shelton, Thomas Mirfine, M. Roger Achiley Draper. This Roger Achiley provided corn for service of this City in great plenty: He caused the same to be stowed up in the common garner called Leaden Hall. year 1512. The 4. sheriffs Robert Aldarnes, Robert Fenrother, M. Sir William Copinger Fishmonger, for part Richard Haddon Mercer, for the rest. Sir W. Copinger gave half his goods to his wife, and the other half to the poor that had most need. year 1513. The 5. sheriffs john Daws, john Bridges, Roger Bafford M. William Browne Mercer, and john Tate Mercer. This john Tate new builded the church of S. Anthony's Hospital in London, year 1514. The 6. sheriffs james Yarford, john Monday, M. George Monuoux Draper. year 1515. The 7. sheriffs Henry Warley, Richard Grey, William Bayly, M. Sir William Butler Grocer. year 1516. The 8. Thomas Seimer, john Thurstone. M. john Rest Grocer. year 1517. The 9 sheriffs Thomas Baldrie Ralph Simondes, M. Sir Thomas Exmew Goldsmith. Sir Thomas Exmew made the water conduit in London wall by Moregate etc. year 1518. The 10. sheriffs john Allen, Iames Spencer, M. Thomas Mirfin Skinner. year 1519. The 11. sheriffs john Wilkenson, Nicholas Partridge, M. Sir james Yarforde Mercer. From this time the Mayors of London, for the most part have been knighted by courtesy of the kings, and not otherwise. year 1520 The 12. sheriffs Sir john Skevington, john Kyme, M. Sir john Bruge Draper. year 1521. The 13. sheriffs john Breton Thomas Pargetor, M. Sir john Milborne Draper. This Sir john Milborne founded fourteen Alms houses by the Crossed Friars church etc. year 1522 The 14. sheriffs john Rudstone, john Champneis M. Sir john Mundy Goldsmith. year 1523. The 15. sheriffs Michael English, Nicholas Senins, M. Sir T. Baldry Mercer. year 1524. The 16. sheriffs Ralph Dodmer, William Roch, M. Sir William Bayly Draper. year 1525. The 17. sheriffs john Caunton, Christopher Askew, M. Sir john Allen Mercer. year 1526. The 18. sheriffs Stephen Peacock, Nicholas Lambart, M. Sir Thomas Seamer Mercer. year 1527. The 19 sheriffs john Hardy, William Holles, M. Sir james Spencer Vintner. year 1528. The 20. sheriffs Ralph Waten, john Long, M. Sir john Rudstone Draper. year 1529. The 21. sheriffs Michael Dormer Walter Champion, M. Sir Ralph Dodmer Mercer. This year it was decreed that no man should be Mayor of London more than one year. year 1530. The 22. sheriffs William Dauntsey, Richard Champion M. Sir T. Pargitor Saltar. year 1531. The 23. sheriffs Richard Gresham, Edward Altham, M. Sir Nicholas Lambard Grocer. year 1532. The 24. sheriffs Richard Reynolds, Nicholas Pinchon, john Martin john Priest, Mayor Sir Stephen Peacock Haberdasher. year 1533. The 25. sheriffs William Forman, Sir T. Kitson, M. Sir Christopher Askew Draper. year 1534. The 26. sheriffs Nicholas Leuison, William Denham, M. Sir john Champneis Skinner. year 1535. The 27. sheriffs Humphrey Munmouth, john Cootes, M. Sir john Allen Mercer, by the kings appointment he was of his Council. A man of great wisdom, and also of great charity. year 1536. The 28. sheriffs Robert Paget, William Boyer, M. Sir Ralph Waren Mercer. year 1537. The 29. sheriffs Sir john Gresham, Thomas Lewen, M. Sir Richard Gresham Mercer. year 1538. The 30. sheriffs William Wilkenson, Nicholas Gibson, Mayor William Forman Haberdasher. year 1539. The 31. sheriffs john Feiry, Thomas Huntlow, Mayor Sir William Holles Mercer. year 1540 The 32. sheriffs Sir William Laxton, Martin Bowes, M. Sir William Roch, Draper. year 1541. The 23. sheriffs Rowland Hill, Henry Suckley, Mayor Sir Michael Dormer Mercer. year 1542. The 24. sheriffs Henry Hubbarthorne, Henry Amcotes, Mayor john Cootes Salter. year 1543. The 35. sheriffs john Toleus, Richard Dobbes, Maior Sir William Bowyer Draper: For part Sir Ralph Waren Mercer. year 1534. The 36. sheriffs john Wilford, Andrew lude, Maior Sir William Laxton Grocer. year 1545. The 37. sheriffs George Barnes, Ralph Alley, M. Sir Martin Bowes Goldsmith. year 1546. The 38. sheriffs Richard jarueis, Thomas Curteis, M. Sir H. Hubbarthorne Merchant tailor. Edward the sixth began his reign the 28. of january, in the year 1546. year 1547. THe 1. sheriffs, Thomas White Robert Charsey, M. Sir john Gresham Mercer. year 1548. The 2. sheriffs William Lock, Sir john Ailife, M. Sir Henry Amcotes Fishmonger. year 1549. The 3. sheriffs Richard Turk, john York, M. Sir Rowland Hill Mercer. year 1550. The 4. sheriffs Augustine Hind, john Lion, M. Sir Andrew Ind Skinner. year 1551. The 5. sheriffs john Lamberd, john Cowper, M. Sir Richard Dobbes Skinner. year 1552. The 6. sheriffs William Gerard, john Maynard, M. Sir George Barnes Haberdasher. Queen Mary began her reign the 6. of july the year 1553. year 1553. THe 1. sheriffs Thomas Ofley, William Huet, M. Sir Thomas White Merchantaylor. This Sir Thomas White founded S. john's College in Oxford. He gave to the City of Bristol 2000 pound, etc. year 1554. The 2. sheriffs David Woodrofe, William Chester, M. Sir john Lion Grocer. year 1555. The 3. sheriffs Thomas Leigh, john Machil, M. Sir William Gerrard Haberdasher. year 1556. The 4. sheriffs William Harper john White, M. Sir T. Ofley Marchantaylor. year 1557. The 5. sheriffs Richard Malorie james Aitham, M. Sir Thomas Curteis Fishmonger. year 1558. The 6. sheriffs john Halse, Richard Champion, M. Sir T. Leigh Mercer. Queen Elizabeth began her reign the 17. of November, in the year of Christ 1558. year 1559. THe 1. sheriffs Thomas Lodge, Roger Martin, M. Sir William Huet Clothworker. year 1560. The 2. sheriffs Christopher Draper, Thomas Row, M. Sir William Chester Draper. This year the Merchant tailors of London founded their notable free school for poor men's children, etc. year 1561. The 3. sheriffs Alexander Auenon, Humphrey Baskervile, M. Sir W. Harper Merchant tailor. year 1562. The 4. sheriffs William Allin Richard Chamberlain, M. Sir T. Lodge Grocer. year 1563. The 5. sheriffs Edward Banks, Rowland Heyward, M, Sir john White Grocer. year 1564. The 6. sheriffs Edward lackman, Lionel Ducket, M. Sir Richard Malorie Mercer. year 1565. The 7. sheriffs john Rivers, james Hawes M. Sir Richard Champion Draper. year 1566. The 8. sheriffs Richard Lambert, Ambrose Nicholas, john Langley, M. Sir Christopher Draper iron-monger. year 1567. The 9 sheriffs. Thomas Ramsey, William Bond, M. Sir Roger Martin Mercer. year 1568. The 10. sheriffs john Oleph, Robert Harding, Iames Bacon, M. Sir Thoms Row Merchant tailor. year 1569. The 11. sheriffs Henry Becher William Dane, M. Alexander Auenon iron-monger. year 1570. 12. sheriffs Francis Barnam William Box M. Sir Rowland Heyward Clothworker. year 1571. The 13. sheriffs Henry Miles, john Branch, M. Sir William Allin Mercer. year 1572. The 13. sheriffs Richard Pipe, Nicholas Woodrofe, M. Sir Lionel Ducket Mercer. year 1573. The 15. sheriffs james Haruy, Thomas Pullison, M. Sir john rivers Grocer. year 1574. The 16. sheriffs Thomas Blank, Anthony Gamage, M. james Hawes Clothworker. year 1575. The 17. sheriffs Edward Osborne, Wolstane Dixi, Maior Ambrose Nicholas Salter. year 1576. The 18. sheriffs William Kimpton, George Barn, M. Sir john Langley Goldsmith. year 1577. The 19 sheriffs Nicholas Backhouse, Francis Bowyer M. Sir Thomas Ramsey Grocer. year 1578. The 20. sheriffs George Bond, Thomas Starkie, M. Sir Richard Pipe Draper. year 1579. The 21. sheriffs Martin Calthrope, john Hart, Mayor Sir Nicholas Woodrofe Haberdasher. year 1580. The 22. sheriffs Ralph Woodcock, john O'late, Mayor, Sir john Branch Draper. year 1581. The 23. sheriffs Richard Martin, William Webbe, M. Sir james Harvey iron-monger. year 1582. The 24. sheriffs William Roe, john Hayden, Cuthbert Buckle, Mayor Sir T. Blank Haberdasher. year 1583. The 25. sheriffs William Masham, john Spencer, M. Edward Osborne Clothworker. year 1584. The 26. sheriffs Stephen Slany, Henry Billingsley, Mayor Sir Thomas Pullison Draper. year 1585. The 27. sheriffs Usum Radclife, Henry Pranell, M. Sir Wolstane Dixie Skinner. year 1586. The 28. sheriffs Robert House, William Elkin, M. Sir George Barn Haberdasher. year 1587. The 29. sheriffs Thomas Skinner, john Katcher, M. Sir George Bond Haberdasher. year 1588. The 30. sheriffs Hugh Ofley, Richard Saltenstall, M. Sir Martin Calthrope Draper for part, and Richard Martin Goldsmith for the rest of that year. year 1589. The 31. sheriffs Richard Gurney, Stephen Some, Mayor Sir john Hart Grocer. year 1590. The 32. sheriffs Nicholas Mosley, Robert Broke, M. john Allot, Fishmonger for part Sir Rowland Heyward Clothworker for the rest. year 1591. The 33. sheriffs, William rider, Benet Barnham, M. Sir William Webbe Salter. year 1592. The 34. sheriffs john Garrard, Robert Taylor, M. Sir William Roe iron-monger. year 1593. The 35. sheriffs Paul Banning, Peter Hauton, M. Sir Cuthbert Buckle Vintner for part: Sir Richard Martin Goldsmith for the rest. year 1594. The 36. sheriffs Robert Lee, Thomas Benet, Mayor Sir john Spencer Clothworker. year 1595. The 37. sheriffs Thomas Low, Leonard Holiday, Mayor Sir Stephen Slany Skinner. year 1596. The 38. sheriffs, john Wattes, Richard Goddard, Mayor Thomas Skinner Clothworker: for part Sir Henry Billingsley. Haberdasher. year 1597. The 39 sheriffs Henry Roe, john Moore Mayor Sir Richard Saltenstall Skinner. year 1598. The 40. sheriffs Edward Holmeden, Robert Hampson, Mayor Stephen Some Grocer. Thus much for the chief and principal Governors of this famous City, of whose politic government, with the assistance of inferior officers, their charges for keeping of the peace, service of the Prince, and honour of this City, much might have been said, and I had thought to have touched, but being informed that a learned Gentleman, a Citizen borne, minded such a labour, and promised to perform it, I have forborn, and left the same to his good leisure. NOw since that I have given you an outward view of this City, it shall not be impertinent to let you take an insight also of the same, such as a Londoner borne, discoursed above twenty years agone, for answer (as it seemeth) to some objections, that then were made against the growing greatness thereof. The Author gave it me, & therefore howsoever I conceal his name (which itself pretendeth not) I think it may without his offence impart it to others, that they may take pleasure in the reading, as I doubt not but he did in the writing. Long may they (that list) envy, and long may we and our posterity enjoy the good estate of this City. A Discourse of the names and first causes of the institution of Cities, and peopled towns. And of the commodities that do grow by the same: and namely of the City of London. Written by way of an Apology (or defence) against the opinion of some men, which think that the greatness of that City standeth not with the profit and security of this Realm. City's and well peopled places be called Oppida, in Latin, either ab ope danda, or ab opibus, or ab opponendo se hostibus. They be named also civitates a coeundo, and (urbes) either of the word urbare, because the first enclosure of them was described with the draft of a Blow. Or else ab orb, for the round compass that they at the first had. In the Greek a City is termed 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, either of the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, multus, or of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉: id est, habitare, alere, gubernare. In the Saxon (or old English) sometimes Tun, which we now call Town, derived of the word Tynan, to enclose or tyne, as some yet speak. But for as much as that word was proper to every village and enclosed dwelling, therefore our ancestors called their walled towns, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, and we now Bury and Borrow, of the Greek word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 (as I think) which signifieth a Tower or a high building. The walls of these towns had their name of vallum, because at the first they were but of that earth which was cast out of the trench or ditch wherewith they were environed. But afterward, being made of matter more fit for defence, they were named a muniendo maenia. By the Etymology of these names, it may appear that common weals, Cities and towns were at the first invented, to the end that men might lead a civil life amongst themselves, and be saved harmless against their enemies: whereupon Plato saith, Civitates ab initio utilitatis causa constitutae sunt. Aristotle 1. Politicorum 2. saith, Civitas a natura profecta est: homo enim animal aptum est ad coetus, & proinde civitatis origo ad vivendum, institutio ad bene vivendum refertur. And Cicero, (lib. primo de inuentione) in the beginning saith, Fuit quoddam tempus cum in agris homines passim bestiarum more vagabantur, etc. quo quidem tempore, quidam (magnus viz. vir, & sapiens) dispersos homines in agris, & tectis siluestribus abditos, ratione quadam compulit in unum locum, atque eos in unam quamque rem induxit utilem & honestam. Vrbibus verò constitutis, fidem colere, & institiam retinere discebant, & alijs parere sua voluntate consuescebant, etc. The same man discourseth notably to the same effect, in his Oration pro Sestio, a little after the midst thereof, showing that in the life of men dispersed vis beareth all the sway: but in the Civil life and society ius is better maintained, etc. This thing well saw King William the Conqueror, who in his laws (fol. 125.) saith Burgi et Civitates fundata & edificata sunt, ad tuitionem gentium, & populorum Regni, & idcirco observari debent cum omni libertate, integritate, & ratione. And his predecessors, king Ethelstane, and King Canutus in their laws (fol. 62. & 106.) had commanded thus: Oppida instaurantur etc. Seeing therefore that as Cicero 2. officior. saith, proxime & secuudum Deos, homines hominibus maximè utiles esse possunt. And that men are congregated into Cities and common wealths, for honesty and utilities sake, these shortly be the commodities that do come by cities, commonalties, and corporations. First, men (by this dearness of conversation) are withdrawn from barbarous feritie and force, to a certain mildness of manners, and to humanity and justice: whereby they are contented to give and take right, to and from their equals and inferiors, and to hear and obey their heads and superiors. Also the doctrine of God is more fitly delivered, and the discipline thereof more aptly to be executed, in peopled Towns then abroad, by reason of the facility of common and often assembling. And consequently, such inhabitants be better managed in order, and better instructed in wisdom: whereof it came to pass that at the first, they that excelled others this way, were called astuti of the Greek word (〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉) which signifieth a City, although the term be now declined to the worst part (and do betoken evil) even as Tyrannus, Sophista, and some such other originally good words are fallen: And hereof also good behaviour is yet called Vrbanitas, because it is rather found in Cities, than elsewhere. In sum, by often hearing men be better persuaded in religion, and for that they live in the eye of others, they be by example the more easily trained to justice, and by shamefastness restrained from injury. And whereas common wealths and kingdoms cannot have (next after God) any surer foundation, than the love and good will of one man towards an other, that also is closely bred and maintained in Cities, where men by mutual society and companying together, do grow to alliances, commonalties and corporations. The liberal sciences and learn of all sorts, which be lumina reipublicae, do flourish only in peopled towns, without the which a realm is in no better case than a man that lacketh both his eyes. Manual arts, or handy crafts, as they have for the most part been invented in towns and Cities, so they cannot any where else be either maintained or amended. The like is to be said of Merchandise, under which name I comprehend all manner of buying, selling, bartering, exchanging, communicating of things that men need, to and fro. Wealth and riches (which are truly called Subsidia belli, & ornamenta pacis) are increased chief in Towns and Cities, both to the prince & people. The necessity of the poor and needy is in such places both sooner to be espied, and hath means to be more charitably relieved. The places themselves be surer refuges in all extremities of foreign invasion, and the inhabitants be a ready hand and strength of men with munition to oppress intestine sedition. Moreover, for as much as the force of the wars of our time consisteth chief in sho●te (all other soldiers being either horsemen or footmen armed on land, or Mariners at the Sea). It seemeth to me that Citizens and Townsmen be as fit to be employed in any of these services (that on horseback only excepted as the inhabitants that be drawn out of the Country. Furthermore, even as these societies and assemblies of men in Cities and great Towns, are a continual bridle against tyranny, which was the cause that Tarquin, Nero, Dionysius, and such others have always sought to weaken them. So (being well tempered) they are a strong fort and bulwark not only in the aristocraty, but also in the lawful kingdom, or just royalty. At once the propagation of religion, the execution of good policy, the exercise of charity, and the defence of the country, is best performed by Towns and Cities: and this civil life approacheth nearest to the shape of that mystical body whereof Christ is the head, and men be the members: whereupon both at the first, that man of God Moses, in the common wealth of the Israelites, and the governors of all Countries in all ages sithence have continually maintained the same. And to change it were nothing else but to Metamorphose the world, and to make wild beasts of reasonable men. To stand longer upon this it were in re non dubia, uti oratione non necessaria: and therefore I will come to London. The singularities of the City of London. Whatsoever is said of Cities generally, maketh also for London specially: howbeit these things are particularly for our purpose to be considered in it. The situation: the former estimation that it hath had: the service that it hath done: the present estate and government of it, and such benefits as do grow to the realm by the maintenance thereof. This Realm hath only three principal Rivers, whereon a royal City may well be situated: Trent in the North, Severne, in the south-west and Thames in the South East: of the which Thames both for the straight course in length reacheth furthest into the belly of the land, and for the breadth and stillness of the water is most navigable up and down the stream: by reason whereof London (standing almost in the middle of that course) is more commodiously served with provision of necessaries, than any town standing upon any of the other two rivers can be, and both also more easily communicate to the rest of the realm the commodities of her own intercourse and traffic. This River openeth indifferently upon France and Flaunders, our mightiest neighbours, to whose doings we aught to have a bend eye, and special regard: and this City standeth thereon in such convenient distance from the sea, as it is not only near enough for intelligence of the affairs of those princes, and for the resistance of their attempts: but also sufficiently removed from the fear of any sudden dangers that may be offered by them: whereas for the Prince of this realm to devil upon Trent, were to turn his back, or blind side to his most dangerous borderers: and for him to rest and devil upon Severne, were to be shut uppe in a cumbersome corner: which openeth but upon Ireland only, a place of much less importance. Neither could London be pitched so commodiously upon any other part of the same River of Thames, as where it now standeth. For if it were removed more to the west, it should loose the benefit of the ebbing and flowing: and if it were seated more toward the East, it should be nearer to danger of the enemy, and further both from the good air, and from doing good to the inner parts of the Realm: Neither may I omit that none other place is so plentifully watered with springs, as London is. And whereas (amongst other things) Corn and cattle, Hay and fuel be of great necessity: of the which cattle may be driven from a far, and corn may easily be transported. But Hay and Fuel (being of greater bulk and burden) must be had at hand: only London (by the benefit of this situation and river) may be sufficiently served therewith. In which respect an Alderman of London reasonably (as me thought) affirmed, that although London received great nourishment by the residence of the Prince, the repair of the parliament, and Courts of justice, yet it stood principally by the advantage of the situation upon the river: for when as on a time it was told him by a Courtier, that Queen Mary (in her displeasure against London) had appointed to remove with the Parliament and term to Oxford, this plain man demanded, whether she meant also to divert the River of Thames from London, or no? and when the Gentleman had answered no, then quoth the Alderman, by God's grace we shall do well enough at London, whatsoever become of the Term and Parliament. I myself being then a young scholar at Oxford did see great preparation made towards that Term and Parliament, and do well remember that the common opinion and voice was, that they were not holden there, because provision of Hay could not be made in all the Country to serve for ten whole days together, and yet is that quarter plentifully stored with Hay for the proportion of the shire itself. For proof of the ancient estimation of London, I will not use the authority of the British history, nor of such as follow it, (although some hold it credible enough that London was first Trinobantum civitas, or Troia nova, that famous City in our histories, and then Ludstoune, and by corruption London, as they report) because they be not of sufficient force to draw the gaynesayers. Neither will I stand much upon that honourable testimony which Geruas. Tiberiens. giveth to London in his book de otijs Imperialibus, saying thus, concerning the blessing of God towards it. In vibe London, exceptione habet diwlgatum id per omnes aequè gentes Lucani proverbium. Inuida fatorum series summisque negatum Stare diu: Nam ea annis 354. ante Romam-conditam, nunquam amisit principatum nec bello consumpta est. But I will rather use the credit of one or two ancient foreign writers, and then descend to latter histories, Cornel. Tacitus lib. 4. Annal sayeth, Londinum copia negociatorum, et comeatu maxime celebris, and Herodian in the life of Severus the Emperor sayeth, Londinum urbs magna et opulenta, Beda lib. Ecclesrastic. 10. Cham 29. showeth that Pope Gregory appointed two Archbishops Seas in England, the one at London, the other at York, king Ethelstane in his laws appointing how many Mint masters should be in each City, alotteth eight to London, and not so many to any other city. The Penner of those laws that are said to be made by Edward the Confessor and confirmed by William the Conqueror sayeth, London est caput Regni, et Legum, king Henry the first, in the third chapter of his laws commandeth that no Citizen of London should be amerced above 100 ●. for any pecuniary pain. The great Charter of England (that Helena,) for which there was so long and so great war, and contention, in the 9 Chapter sayeth, civitas London habeat omnes suas Libertates antiquas etc. about the time of king john, London was reputed regna firmata Columna, as Alexander Necham writeth, and in the beginning of the reign of Richard the second, it was called Camera regis, as Thomas Walsingham reporteth. I pass over the recital of the Saxon Charter of king W. the Conqueror the latin Charters of Henry the first, and second of Richard the first, of john, and of Edward the first (all which gave unto the Citizens of London great Privileges) and of Edward the third, who reciting all the grants of his Predecessors, not only confirmed but also increased the same, and of the latter kings who have likewise added many things thereunto. Only I wish to be noted by them that during all this time all those wise and politic Princes have thought it fit not only to maintain London in such plight as they found it, but also to adorn, increase and amplify it with singular tokens of their liberal favour and good liking. And whether there be not now the same or greater causes to draw the like or better estimation, and cherishing, let any man be judge, that will take the pains to compare the present estate of London, (yet still growing to better, with the former condition of the same. It were too much to recite particularly the martial services, that this City hath done from time to time: neither do I think that they be all committed to writing, only for a taste (as it were) I will note these few following. Almost 60. years before the Conquest, a huge Army of the Danes (whereof king Sweyne was the leader,) besieged king Etheldred in London, (than the which as the story sayeth then he had none other refuge) but they were manfully repulsed, and a great number of them slain. After the death of this Sweyn, his son Canutus (afterward king of England) besieged London, both by Land and Water: but after much labour, finding it impregnable, he departed: and in the same year repairing his forces, he girded it with a new siege, in the which the Citizens so defended themselves, and offended him that in the end he went away with shame. In the dissension that arose between king Edward the Confessor, & his father in law Earl Goodwin (which was the mightiest subject within this land that ever I have read of.) The Earl with a great Army came to London, and was for all that by the countenance of the Citizens resisted, till such time as the Nobility made reconciliation between them. About 70. years after the Conquest Maude the Empress made war upon king Stephen for the right of the Crown, and had taken his person prisoner, but by the strength and assistance of the Londoners and Kentishmen, Maude was put to flight at Winchester, and her brother Robert then Earl of Gloucester, was taken in exchange for whom king Stephen was delivered, I dispute not whose right was better, but I avouch the service, seeing Stephen was in possession. The History of William Walworth the Mayor of London, is well known, by whose manhood and policy, the person of king Richard the second was rescued, the City saved, Wat Tiler killed, After the common opinion of men of late times. and all his stranglers discomfited, in memory and reward of which service the City had a Dagger added to their shield of Arms, and the Majors have been most commonly sithence knighted. jacke Cade also having discomfited the kings Army, that was sent against him, came to London, and was there manfully and with long fight resisted, until that by the good policy of the Citizens his company was dispersed. Finally in the tenth year of the reign of king Edward the fourth, and not many days before the death of Henry the sixth, Thomas Nevell, (commonly called the Bastard of Fauconbridge,) armed a great Company against the king, and being denied passage through London, he assaulted it on divers parts: but he was repulsed by the Citizens, and chased as far as Stratforde with the loss of a great many. Thus much of certain their principal, and personal services, in wa● only, for it were infinite to repeat the particular aids of men and money● which London hath ministered: and I had rather to leave it to be conjectured at by comparison to be made between it, & othercities, whereof I will give you this one note for an example. In the 12. year of the reign of king Edward the 2. it was ordered by Parliament, that every City of the Realm should make out soldiers against the Scots: at which time London was appointed to sand 200. men, and Canterbury (being then one of our best Cities) 40. and no more. And this proportion of five to one, is now in our age increased, at the lest five to one, both in soldiers and subsidy. As for the other services that London hath done in times of peace, they are to be measured by consideration of the commodities whereof I will speak anon. In the mean season let the estate and government of this City be considered to the end that it may appear that it standeth well with the policy of the Realm. Caesar in his Commentaries is witness, that in his time the Cities of Britain had large Territories annexed unto them, and were several estates of themselves governed by particular kings or Potentates, as in Italy and Germany, et be: and that Mandubratius was king of the Trinobantes, whose chief City London is taken to have been: And I found not that this & government was altered either by Caesar, or his successors, notwithstanding that the Country became tributory unto them: but that it continued until at the length the Britons themselves reduced all their peoples into one Monarchy, howbeit that lasted not any long season: for upon Vortiger their king came the Saxons our Ancestors, and they drove the Britons into Wales, Cornwall, and Britain, in France, and in process of War divided the Country amongst themselves into an Eptarchie, or seven kingdoms, of the which one was called the kingdom of the East Saxons, which having in manner the same limmites that the Bishopric of London now enjoyeth, contained Essex, Middlesex, and a part of Hertfordshire, and so included London. Again it appeareth that in course of time, and about ●800. years after Christ, Egbert (than king of the West Saxons) Vt pisces saepe minutos magnus comest, overcame the rest of the kings, and once more erected a Monarchy, the which till the coming in of the Normans, and from thence even hitherto hath continued. Now I doubt not (whatsoever London was in the time of Caesar) but that under the Eptarchie and Monarchy it hath been a subject, and no free City, though happily endowed with some large Privileges, for king William the Conqueror found a Portréeve there whose name was Godfrey (by which name he greeteth him in his Saxon Chre) and his office was none other than the charge of a Bailiff, or Réeve, as by the self same name continuing yet in Gravesend, and certain other places may well appear. But the Frenchmen using their own language, called him sometime a Provost, and sometime a Bailiff, whatsoever his name and office were, he was perpetuus Magistratus given by the Prince, and not chosen by the Citizens, as it seemeth, for what time king Richard the first needed money towards his expedition in the Holy Land, they first purchased of him the Liberty to choose yearly from amongst themselves two Bailiffs: And king john his successor, at their like suit changed their Bailiffs into a Mayor, and two sheriffs. To these Henry the third added Aldermen, at the first eligible yearly, but afterward by king E. the third made perpetual Magistrates, and justices of the peace within their wards, in which plight of government it presently standeth. This shortly as I could is the Historical and outward estate of London: now come I to the inward pith & substance. The estate of this City is to be examined by the quantity and by the quality. The quantity therefore consisteth in the number of the Citizens which is very great and far exceedeth the proportion of Hippodamus which appointed 10000 & of others which have set down other numbers as meet styntes in their opinions to be well governed, but yet seeing both reason and experience have freed us from the law of any definite number, so that other things be ●serued, let that be admitted: neither is London (I fear me) so great as populous: for well sayeth onen, non idem est magna civitas & frequens, magna est enim quae multos habet qui arma ferre possunt, whatsoever the number be, the breedeth no fear of sedition: forasmuch as the same consisteth not in the extremes, but in a very mediocrity of Wealth and riches, as it shall better appear anon. And if the causes of English rebellions be searched out, they shall be found in effect to be these twain, Ambition, and Covetousness, of which the first reigneth in the minds of high and noble personages, or of such others, as seek to be gracious and popular, and have rob the hearts of the multitude, whereas in London if any where in the world, honos veré onus est, and every man rather shuneth than seeketh the Mayoralty which is the best mark amongst them, neither hath there been any strong faction, nor any man more popular than the rest, forasmuch as the government is by a Pattern (as it were) and always the fame, how often soever they change their Magistrate. Covetousness, (that other Sire of sedition) possessth the miserable and needy sort, and such as be naughty packs, unthrifts, (which although it cannot be chosen, but the in a frequent City as London is, there shallbe found many) yet bear they not any great sway, seeing the multitude and most part there is of a competent wealth, and earnestly bend to honest labour, I confess that London is a mighty arm and instrument to bring any great desire to effect, it it may be won to a man's devotion: whereof also there want not examples in the English History. But forasmuch as the same is by the like reason serviceable and meet to impeach any disloyal attempt, let it rather be well governed then evil liked therefore, for it shall appear anon that as London hath adhered to some rebellions, so hath it resisted many & was never the author of any one. The quality of this city consisteth either in the law & government thereof: or in the degrees and condition of the Citizens, or in their strength and riches. It is beside the purpose, to dispute, whether the estate of the government here be a Democraty, or aristocraty, for whatsoever it be being considered in itself, certain it is, that in respect of the whole Realm, London is but a Citizen, and no city, a subject and no free estate, an obedienciarie, and no place endowed, with any distinct or absolute power, for it is governed by the same law, that the rest of the Realm is, both in causes Criminal and Civil, a few customs only excepted, which also are to be adjudged, or foriudged by the common law. And in the assembly of the estates of our Realm (which we call Parliament) they are but a member of the Commonalty, and sand two Burgesses, for their city, as every poor Borough doth, and two knights for their County as every other shire doth, and are as straightly bound by such laws as any part of the Realm is, for if contribution in subsidy of money to the Prince be decreed, the Londoners have none exemption, not not so much as to assess themselves: for the Prince doth appoint the commissioners. If Soldiers must be mustered, Londoners have no law to keep themselves at home, if provision for the Prince's household be to be made, their goods are not Privileged. In sum therefore the government of London differeth not in substance, but in ceremony from the rest of the Realm, as namely, in the names and choice of their officers, and in their Guilds and Fraternities, established for the maintenance of handicrafts, and Labourers and for equity and good order, to be kept in buying and selling. And yet in these also are they to be controlled by the general law for by the statutes 28. E. 3. Chap. 10. and 1. H. 4. Cham 15. the points of their misgovernment are inquirable by the inhabitants of the Foreign shires adjoining and punishable by such justiciars as the Prince shall thereunto depute, to conclude therefore the estate of London for government is so agreeable a Symphony with the rest, that there is no fear of dangerous discord to ensue thereby. The multitude (or whole body) of this populous City is two ways to be considered, generally, and specially, generally they be natural subjects, a part of the commons of this Realm and are by birth for the most part a mixture of all countries of the same, by blood Gentlemen, Yeomen, and of the basest sort, without distinction: and by profession busy Bees, and travelers for their living in the Hive of this common wealth, but specially considered, they consist of these three parts, Merchants, Handicrafts men, and Labourers. Merchandise is also divided into these three sorts, Navigation, by the which merchandises are brought, and carried in and out over the Seas, Inuection by the which commodities are gathered into the City, and dispersed from thence into the Country by land and negotiation, which I may call the keeping of a retailing or standing shop. In common speech they of the first sort be called Merchants, and both the other retailers, handicrafts men be those which do exercise such arts as require both labour and cunning, as Goldsmiths, Tailors and Haberdasher's, Skinners etc. Labourers and hirelings, I call those quorum operae non artes emuntur, as Tully sayeth, of which sort be Portars, Carmen, Watermen etc. Again these three sorts may be considered either in respect of their wealth, or number: in wealth Merchants, and some of the chief retailers have the first place, the most part of retailers, and all artificers: the second or mean place, and Hirelings the lowest room: but in number they of the middle place, be first, and do far exceed both the rest: Hirelings be next, and Merchants be the last. Now, out of this, that the estate of London, in the persons of the Citizens, is so friendly interlaced, and knit in league with the rest of the realm, not only at their beginning by birth and blood as I have showed, but also very commonly at their ending by life and conversation (for that Merchants and rich men being satisfied with gain do for the most part) marry their children into the Country, and convey themselves after Cicerors' counsel, Veluti ex portu in agros et possessiones: I do infer that there is not only no danger towards the common quiet thereby, but also great occasion and cause of good love and amity: out of this, that they be generally bend to travel and do fly poverty, per mare, per saxa, per ignes, as the Poet sayeth, I draw hope, that they shall escape the note of many vices, which idle people do fall into And out of this, that they be a great multitude, and that yet the greatest part of them be neither too rich not too poor, but do live in the mediocrity, I conclude with Aristotle that the Prince needeth not to fear sedition by them, for thus sayeth he. Magnae urbes, magis sunt a seditione liberae, quod in eyes dominetur mediocritas, nam in parvis nihil medium est, sunt enim omnes vel pauperes vel opulenti. I am now to come to the strength and power of this City, which consisteth partly in the number of the Citizens themselves, whereof I have spoken before, partly in their riches, and in their warlike furniture, for as touching the strength of the piece itself that is apparent to the eye, and therefore is not to be treated of. The wealth and warlike furniture of London is either public of private, and no doubt the common treasure cannot be much there, seeing that the revenue which they have, hardly sufficeth to maintain their Bridge and Conduits, and to pay their officers and servants. Their Tolle doth not any more than pay their Fee Farm, that they pay to the Prince. Their Issues for default of Appearances be never levied, and the profits of their courts of justice, do go to particular men's hands. Arguments hereof be these two: one that they can do nothing of extraordinary charge, without a general contribution: an other that they have suffered such, as have borne the chief office amongst them, and were become Bankrupt, to departed the City, without relief: which I think they neither would nor could have done, if the common treasure had sufficed to cover their shame, hereof therefore we need not be afraid. The public armour and munition of this City remaineth in the halls of the Companies, as it doth throughout the whole Realm, for a great part in the parish churches, neither is that kept together, but only for obedience to the law, which commandeth it, and therefore if that threaten danger to the estate, it may (by another law) be taken from them, and committed to a more safe Armoury. The Private riches of London resteth chief in the hands of the Merchants, and retailers, for Artificers have not much to spare, and Labourers hau need that it were given unto them. Now how necessary and serviceable the estate of Merchandise is to this Realm, if may partly appear by the practice of that peaceable, politic, and rich Prince king Henry the seventh, of whom Polidore (writing his life) sayeth thus, Mercatores ille saepenumero pecunia multa data gratuitò iwabat, ut mercatura (ars una omnium cunctis aequè mortalibus tum commoda, tum necessaria) in suo regno copiosior esset. But chief, by the inestimable commodities that grow thereby: for who knoweth not that we have extreme need of many things, whereof foreign countries have great store, and that we may spare many things whereof they have need? or who is ignorant of this that we have no mines of silver or gold within our Realm? so that the increase of our coin, and Bulloine cometh from else where, and yet nevertheless we be both fed, clad, and otherwise served with foreign commodities and delights, as plentiful as with our domestical: which thing cometh to pass by the mean of merchandise only, which importeth necessaries from other countries, and exporteth the superfluities of our own. For seeing we have no way to increase our treasure by mines of gold or silver at home, and can have nothing without money or Ware from other countries abroad, if followeth necessarily, that it we follow the council of that good old Husband Marcus Cato, saying, oportet patrem familias vendacem esse, non emacem, and do carry more commodities in value over the seas, than we bring hither from thence: that then the Realm shall receive that overplus in money: but if we bring from beyond the seas merchandise of more value, then that which we do sand over may countervail, than the Realm payeth for the overplus in ready money, and consequently is a loser by that ill husbandry: and therefore in this part great and heedful regard must be had that Symmetria, and due proportion be kept, lest otherwise, either the Realm be defrauded of her treasure, or the subjects corrupted in vanity, by excessive importation of superfluous and peerless Merchandise, or else that we feel penury, even in our greatest plenty and store by immoderate exportation of our own needful commodities. Other the benefits that merchandise bringeth, shall hereafter appear in the general recital of the commodities that come by London: and therefore it resteth that I speak a word of Retaylors, and finally show that much good groweth by them both. The chief part of retailing is but a handmaid to merchandise, dispersing by piecemeal that which the merchant bringeth in gross: of which trade be Mercers, Grocers, vintners, Haberdashers, iron-mongers, Millayners, & all such as cell wares growing or made beyond the seas: & therefore so long as Merchandise itself shallbe profitable, & such proportion kept as neither we lose our treasure thereby, nor be cloyed with unnecessary foreign Wares, this kind of retailing is to be retained also. Now that Merchants and retailers of London be very rich and great, it is so far from any harm, that it is a thing both praise worthy, and profitable: for Mercatura (sayeth Cicero) si tenuis est, fordida putanda est, sin magna est & copiosa non est vituperanda. And truly Merchants and retailers do not altogether intus Canere, and profit themselves only, for the Prince, and Realm both are enriched by their riches: the Realm winneth treasure, if their trade be so moderated by authority, that it break not proportion, & they beside bear a good fleece which the Prince may shear when she seeth good, But here before I conclude this part, I have shortly to answer the accusation of those men, which charge London with the loss and decay of many (or most) of the ancient Cities, Corporate Towns, and markets within this Realm, by drawing from them to herself alone (say they) both all trade of traffic by sea, and the retailing of wares, and exercise of manual arts also. Touching Navigation, which (I must confess) is apparently decayed in many port towns, and flourisheth only or chief at London, I impute that, partly to the fall of the Staple (the which being long since a great trade, and bestowed sometimes at one town and sometimes at an other within the Realm, did much enrich the place where it was: & being now not only diminished in force, but also translated over the seas, cannot but bring some decay with it (partly to the impairing of Havens, which in many places have impoverished those Towns, whose estate doth ebb and ●low with them, and partly to the dissolution of Religious houses, by whose wealth and haunt, many of those places were chief fed and nourished. I mean not to rehearse particular examples of every sort: for the thing itself speaketh, and I hast to an end: As for retailers therefore, and handicrafts men, it is no marvel if they abandon Country Towns, and resort to London: for of nonely the Court, (which is now a days much greater and more gallant then in former times, and which was wont to be contented to remain with a small company, sometimes at an Abbey or Priory, sometimes at a Bishop's house, and sometimes at some mean Manor of the kings own) is now for the most part either abiding at London, or else so near unto it, that the provision of things most fit for it, may easily be fetched from thence: but also by occasion thereof the Gentlemen of all shires do fly, and flock to this City, the younger sort of them to see and show vanity, and the elder to save the cost and charge of Hospitality, and house keeping. For hereby it cometh to pass that the Gentlemen being either for a good portion of the year out of the Country, or playing the farmers, Grasiars, Brewers or such like, more than Gentlemen were wont to do within the Country, retailers and Artificers, at the lest of such things as pertain to the back or belly, do leave the Country towns where there is no vent, and do fly to London, where they be sure to find ready and quick market. And yet I wish, that even as many towns in the Low Countries of king Phillips do stand some by one handy art and some by an other: so also that it might be provided here, that the making of some things might (by discrete dispensation) be allotted to some special Towns, to the end, that although the dayntenesse of men cannot be restrained, which will needs seek those things at London, yet other places also might be relieved, at the lest by the Workmanship of them. Thus much then of the estate of London, in the government thereof, in the condition of the Citizens, and in their power and riches. Now follow the enumeration of such benefits as rebound to the Prince and this realm by this City: In which doing I profess not to rehearse all, but only to recite and run over the chief and principal of them. Besides the commodities of the furtherance of Religion and justice: The propagation of Learning: The maintenance of arts: The increase of riches, and the defence of Countries (all which are before showed to grow generally by Cities, and be common to London with them) London bringeth singularly these good things following. By advantage of the situation it disperseth foreign Wares (as the stomach doth meat) to all the members most commodiously. By the Benefit of the river of Thames, and great trade of Merchandise, it is the chief maker of Mariners, and Nurse of our Navy: and ships (as men know) be the wooden walls for defence of our Realm. It maintaineth in flourishing estate, the Countries of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, and Sussex, which as they lie in the face of our most puissant neighbour, so aught they (above others) to be conserved in the greatest strength and riches: and these (as it is well known) stand not so much by the benefit of their own soil, as by the neighbourhood and nearness which they have to London. It relieveth plentifully, and with good policy, not only her own poor people (a thing which scarcely any other Town or shire doth) but also the poor that from each quarter of the realm do flock unto it, and it imparteth liberally to the necessity of the Universities beside. It is an ornament to the realm by the beauty thereof, & a terror to other countries by reason of the great wealth and frequency. It spreadeth the honour of our Country far abroad by her long navigations, and maketh our power feared, even of barbarous Princes. It only is stored with rich Merchants which sort only is tolerable: for beggarly Merchants, do bite too near, & will do more harm then good to the realm. It only of any place in this realm is able to furnish the sudden necessity with a strong Army. It availeth the prince in Tonnage, Poundage and other her customs, much more than all the rest of the Realm. It yieldeth a greater Subsidy than any one part of the realm, I mean not for the proportion of the value of the goods only, but also for the faithful service there used, in making the assess, for no where else be men taxed so near to their just value as in London: yea many are found there, that for their countenance and credit sake, refuse not to be rated above their ability, which thing never happeneth abroad in the country. I omit that in ancient time, the inhabitants of London and other cities, were accustomably taxed after the tenth of their goods, when the Country was assessed at the fifteenth, and rated at the viii. when the country was set at the xii. for that were to awake a sleeping Dog, and I should be thought dicenda, tacenda, locutus, as the Poet said. It only doth and is able to make the Prince a ready priest or loan of money. It only is found fit and able to entertain strangers honourably, and to receive the Prince of the realm worthily. Almighty God (qui nisi custo diat civitatem, frustra vigilat custos) grant, that her Majesty evermore rightly esteem and rule this City, and he give grace, that the Citizens may answer duty, aswell towards God and her Majesty, as towards this whole realm and country, Amen. An Appendix containing the examination of such causes as have heretofore moved the Princes, either to fine and ransom the citizens of London, or to seize the liberties of the City itself. THese all may be reduced to these few heads: for either the citizens have adheared (in aid or arms) to such as have warred upon the Prince: or they have made tumult, and broken the common peace at home: or they have misbehaved themselves in point of government and justice: or finally (and to speak the plain truth) the princes have taken hold of small matters, and coined good sums of money out of them. To the first head I will refer whatsoever they have done either in those wars that happened between king Stephen and Maude the Empress, being competitors of the crown: or between king john & his nobles assisting Lewes the French kings son when he invaded the realm: for it is apparent by all histories, that the Londoners were not the movers of these wars, but were only used as instruments to maintain them. The like is to be said of all the offences that king Henry the third (whose whole reign was a continual warfare) conceived against this City, concerning the bearing of armour against him; for the first part of his reign was spent in the continuation of those wars that his father had begun with Lewes. And the rest of his life he bestowed in that contention, which was commonly called the Baron's wars. In which Tragedy London (as it could not be otherwise) had now and then a part, and had many a snubbe at the kings hand for it. But in the end when he had triumphed over Simon Mountford at Euesham, London felt it most tragical: for than he both seized their liberties, and sucked themselves dry: and yet Edictum Kenelworth (made shortly after) hath an honourable testimony for London, saying, Te London laudamus etc. As for the other offences that he took against the Londoners, they pertain to the other parts of my division. Next after this, against whom the Londoners did put on arms, followeth king Edward the second, who in the end was deprived of his kingdom, not by their means, but by a general defection, both of his own wife and son, and almost of the whole nobility and realm beside. In which trouble, that furious assault, and slaughter committed by them upon the Bishop of Excester (than Treasurer of the Realm) is to be imputed, partly to the sway of the time wherewith they were carried, and partly to a private displeasure which they had to the Bishop. Finally cometh to hand King Richard the second: for these three only in all the Catalogue of our kings, have been heavy Lords to London, who also had much contention with his nobility, and was in the end deposed. But whatsoever countenance and aid the City of London brought to the wars and uproars of that time, it is notoriously true that London never led the dance, but ever followed the pipe of the nobility. To close up this first part therefore I affirm, that in all the troublesome actions during the reigns of these three kings, as also in all that heaving in, and hurling out, that afterward happened between K. Henry the 6. & king Edward the fourth, the city of London was many times a friend and fautor, but never the first motive or author of any intestine war or sedition. In the second room I place a couple of tumultuous affrays that chanced in the days of King Richard the first, the one upon the day of his coronation against the jews, which contrary to the Kings own proclamation, would needs enter the Church to see him sacred, and were therefore cruelly handled by the common people. The other was caused by William with the long beard, who after that he had inflamed the poor people against the richer sort, and was called to answer for his fault, took Bow Church for sanctuary, and kept it Castle like, till he was fired out. Here is place also for the stoning to death of a Gentleman (servant to the half brother of King Henry the third) which had before provoked the Citizens to fury by wounding divers of them without any cause 1257. for the riotous fray between the servants of the Goldsmiths and the Tailors, 1268. for the hurly-burly and bloodshed between the Londoners and the men of Westminster, moved by the young men upon an occasion of a wrestling on S. james day, 1221. & made worse by one Constantine an ancient Citizen: for the brawl and business that arose about a Baker's loaf at Salisbury place 1391. for the which and some other misdemeanours K. Richard the 2. was so incensed by evil counsel against the Londoners, that he determined to destroy them, and raze their City, and for the fight that was between the citizens & Sanctuary men of S. Martin's 1454. under K. Henry the sixth. And finally for the misrule on evil May day 1519. and for such other like, if there have been any. To the third head may be referred the seiser of their liberties, for a false judgement given against a poor widow, called Margaret Viel 1246. The 2. several seisers in one year 1258. for falls packing in collections of money and other enormities: And finally the seiser made by King Edward the first for taking bribes of the Baker's 1285. But all this severity in seizing and resuming of the liberties (which was in old time the only ordinary punishment) was at length mitigated by king Edward the third, and King Henry the fourth in their statutes before remembered. In the last place stand those offences, which I repute rather taken then given, and do fall within the measure of the adage, ut canem cedas, cito invenias baculum: for King john in the tenth of his reign deposed the Bailiffs of London, because they had bought up the Wheat in the market, so that there was not to serve his Purveyors. King Henry the third his son compelled the Londoners to pay him 5000. ●. because they had lent to Lewes the French the like sum, of a good mind to dispatch him out of their City and the realm, at such time as the Protector and the whole Nobility fell to composition with him for his departure. And the same King fined them at three thousand marks, for the escape of a prisoner out of Newgate, of whom they took no charge: for he was a Clerk, prisoner to the Bishop of London under the custody of his own servants, and as for the place, it was only borrowed of the Londoners to serve that turn. Hitherto of these things to this end, that whatsoever misdemeanour shallbe objected out of history against London, the same may herein appear, both in his true place● and proper colour. BEcause amongst other mine Authors I have often times alleged Fitz-Stephens, as one more choice than other, namely for the ancient estate of this City, more than three hundred years since: And also the said Author being rare, (as to my knowledge) not extant out of mine own custody, I have in this place thought good by impression to impart the same to my loving friends, the learned Antiquaries as the Author wrote it in the Latin tongue. And first to note in effect, what M. Bale in commendation of the said Author writeth. William Stephanides, or Fitzstephen, a Monk of Canterbury, Edit●o anni● 1548. borne of worshipful parents in the City of London, well brought up at the first under good masters, did more and more increase in honest conditions and learning: for ever in his young years there appeared in him a certain light of a Gentlemanlike disposition, which promised many good things, afterward by him performed. Such time as other spent in brawls, and idle talk, he employed in wholesome exercises for the honour of his country, following therein the example of Plato: and was very studious both in humanity and divinity. The City of London his birth place, the most noble of all other Cities of this land, and the Prince's seat, situated in the South part of this Island, he loved above all the other: so that at length he wrote most elegantly in latin of the site and rites of the same. Leland in divers of his books commendeth him for an excellent writer. He lived in the reign of king Stephen, wrote in the reign of Henry the second, & deceased in the year of Christ 1191. in the reign of Richard the first. Descriptio Nobilissimae Civitatis Londoniae. De Situ eiusdem. INter nobiles urbes orbis, quas fama celebrat, civitas Londonia regni Anglorum sedes una est, quae famam sui latiùs diffundit, opes & merces longiùs transmittit, caput altiùs extollit. Foelix estaeris salubritate; Christiana religione, firmitate munitionum, natura situs, honore civium, pudicitia matronali, ludis etiam quàm jucunda; & Nobilium faecunda virorum: quae singula semotim libet inspicere. De Clementia Aeris. IBisiquidem emollit animos hominum clementia coeli, non ut sint in Venerem putres, sed neferi sint, & bestiales; potiùs benigni & liberales. De Religione. ESt ibi in ecclesia beati Pauli episcopalis sedes, quondam fuit Metropolitana, & adhuc futura creditur, siremeaverint cives in Insulan: nisi fortè Beati Thomae Martyris titulus Archiepiscopalis, & praesentia corporalis, dignitatem illam Cantuariae (ubi nunc est) conseruet perpetuam. Sed cùm utramque urbium harum Sanctus Thomas illustraverit, Londoniam ortu, Cantuariam occasu: ipsius sancti intuitu, cumiustitiae accessu, habet altera adversus alteram, quod ampliùs alleget. Sunt etiam (quod ad Christianae fidei cultum pertinet) tùm in Londonia, tùm in suburbano 13. maiores ecclesiae conventuum, praeter minores parochianas. 126. De Firmitate urbis. HAbet ab Oriente arcem Palatinam, maximam & fortissimam, cuius & area, & muri à fundamento profundissimo exurgunt: cemento cum sanguine animalium ●emperato. Ab occidente duo castella munitissima: muro urbis alto & magno, duplatis● Heptapylae portis intercontinuante, turrito ab Aquilone per intercapedines. Similiterquè ab Austro Londonia murata & turtita fuit: sed flwius maximus piscosus Thamensis, mari influo refluoque qui illac allabitur, maenia illa tractu temporis alluit, labefactavit, deiecit. Item sursùm ab occidente Palatium Regium eminet super flwium eundem, aedificium incomparabile, cum auremurali & propugnaculis, duobus millibus ab urbe, suburbano frequenti continuante. De Hortis. VNdiqué extra domos suburbanorum Horti civium arboribus consiti, spatiosi, & speciosi, contigui habentur. De Pascuis & Sationalibus. ITem à Borea sunt agri pascui, & pratorum grata planities, aquis flwialibus interfluis: ad quas molinorum versatiles rotae citantur cum murmur iocoso. Proximé patet foresta ingens, saltus nemorosi ferarum, latebrae ceruorum, damarum, aprorum, & taurorum syluestrium: Agri urbis sationales non sunt ieiunae glareae, sed pingues Asiae campi qui faciunt laetas segetes, & suorum cultorum repleant horrea cerealis mergite culmi. De Fontibus. SVnt & circa Londoniam ab Aquilone suburbani fontes praecipui aqua dulci, salubri, perspicua, & per claros rivo trepidante lapillos. Inter quos fons Sacer, fons Clericorum, fons Sancti Clementis nominatiores habentur, & adeuntur celebriori accessu, & maiori frequentia scholarum & urbanae iwentutis in serotinis aestivis ad auram exeuntis. Vrbs sané bona cúm bonum habeat Dominum. De honore Civium. VRbs ista viris est honorata, armis decorata, multo habitatore populosa, ut tempore bellicae cladis sub rege Stephano bello apti ex ea exeuntes ostentatui haberentur 20000. armatorum equitum, 60. mill peditum estimarentur. Cives Londoniae vbicunqué locorum prae omnibus alijs civibus ornatu morum, vestium & mensae, locutione, spectabiles & noti habentur. De Matronis. Vrbis Matronae ipsae Sabinae sunt. De Scholis. IN Londonia tres principales ecclesiae scholas celebres habent de privilegio & antiqua dignitate. Plerunque tamen favore personae alicuius, vel aliquorum doctorum, qui secundum philosophian noti & praeclari habentur, & aliae ibi sunt scholae de gratia & permissione. Diebus festis ad ecclesias festivas magistri conventus celebrantur: Disputant scolares, quidam demonstratiué, Dialecticé alij: alij recitant enthymemata: hij meliùs perfectis utuntur Syllogismis. Quidam ad ostentationem exercentur disputat one, quae est inter colluctantes. Alij ad veritatem, ea quae est perfectionis gratia: sophistae simulatores agmine & inundatione verborum beati iudicantur. Alij paralogizantur: Oratores aliqui quandoque orationibus Rhetoricis aliquid dicunt appositè ad persuadendum, curantes artis praecepta servare, & ex contingentibus nihil omittere. Pueri diversarum scholarum versibus inter se conrixantur: & de principijs artis Grammaticae, regulis praeteritorum vel futurorum contendunt: Sunt alij qui epigrammatibus, rithmis & metris utuntur, vetere illa triviali dicacitate, licentia Fescennina socios, suppressis nominibus liberiùs lacerant, Loedorias iaculantur & scommata, salibus Socraticis sociorum, vel fortè maiorum vitia tangunt, vel mordacius dente rodunt Theonino audacibus *. Auditores multùm ridere parati ingeminant tremulos naso crispante cachinnos. De dispositione urbis. SIngulorum officiorum exercitores, singularum rerum venditores, singularum operarum suarum locatores, quotidiano mane per se sunt locis distincti omnes ut officijs. Pretereà est in Londonia supra ripam fluminis inter vina in navibus & cellis vinarijs venalia, publica coquina: ibi cotidiè pro tempore est invenire cibaria fercula, assa, frixa, elixa, pisces, pisciculos, carnes grossiores pauperibus, delicatiores divitibus, venationum, avium, avicularum. Si subitò veniant ad aliquem civium amici fatigati ex itinere, nec libeat ieiunis expectare, ut novi cibi emantur, coquantur, dant famuli manibus limphas panesque, interim ad ripam curritur, ibi prestò sunt omnia desiderabilia. Quantalibet militum vel peregrinorum infinitas intrat urbem, qualibet diêi vel noctis hora, vel ab urbe exitura, ne vel hi nimium ieiunent, vel alij impransi exeant, illuc si placeat divertunt, et se pro modo suo singuli ref●ciunt: qui se curare volunt molliter, accipenserem vel aliam avem, vel attagen Ionicum non quaerant, appositis quae ibi inveniuntur delicijs: Haec equidem publica coquina est & civitati plurimum expediens, et ad civitatem pertinens: Hinc est quod legitur in Gorgia Platonis, juxta medicinam esse coquorum officium, simulantium & adulationem quartae particulae civilitatis. Est ibi extra unam portarum statim in suburbio quidam planus campus re & nomine. Omni sexta feria, nisi sit maior festivitas praeceptae solempnitatis, est ibi celebre spectaculum nobilium equorum venalium. Spectaturi vel empturi veniunt qui in urbe adsunt, comites, barones, milites, cives plurimi. ●uuat videre gradarios succussatura nitente suaviter ambulantes: pedibus lateraliter simul erectis, quasi a subalternis & demissis: Hinc equos, qui armigeris magis conveniunt, durius incedentes, sed expeditè tamen, qui quasi â contradictoribus pedes simul elevant & deponunt: Hinc nobiles pullos iuniores, qui nondum fraeno bene assueti, altius incedunt, & mollia crura reponunt: Hinc summarios membris validis & vegetis. Hinc dextrarios preciosos, elegantis formae, staturae honestae, micantes auribus, ceruicibus arduis, clunibus obesis. In horum incessu spectant emptores, primo passum suaviorem, posteà motuncitatiorem, qui est quasi a contrarijs pedibus anterioribus simul solo amotis & admotis, & posterioribus similiter. Cum talium sonipedum cursus imminet, & aliorum fortè qui similiter sunt in genere suo ad vecturam validi, ad cursuram vegeti: clamor attollitur, vulgares equos in partem ire praecipitur: Sessores alipedum pueri tres simul, aliquando bini ex condicto & bini certamini se praeparant, docti equis imperitare, indomitorum lupatis temperant fraenis ora: hoc maxime praecavent, ne alter alteri concursum praeripiat. Et qui similiter pro modo suo ad certamen cursus illius attollunt; tremunt artus, morae impatientes, stare loco nesciunt, facto signo membra extendunt, cursum rapiunt, agilitate pervicaci feruntur: certant sessores laudis amore, spe victoriae, equis admissis subdere calcaria, & nec minus urgere eos virgis & ciere clamoribus. Putares omnia in motu esse, secundum Heraclitum, & falsam omnino Zenonis sententiam, dicentis, quoniam, non contingit moveri, neque stadium pertran●ire. part alia stant seorsim rusticorum peculia, agrorum iustrumenta, sues longis lateribus, vaccae distentis uberibus, corpora magna boum, lanigerunque pecus: stant ibi aptae aratris, trahis & bigis equae: quarundam ventres foetibus tument: alias editi foetus obeunt pulli lasciviores, sequela inseparabilis. Ad hanc vrbem ex omni natione quae sub coelo est, navalia gaudent institores habere commercia. Aurum mittit Arabs, species & thura Sabaeus, Arma Scythes, oleum palmarum divite silva. Pingue solum Babylon, Nilus lapides preciosos. Seres purpureas vestes. Norwegi, Russi, varium, grisium, sabelinas: Galli sua vina. Vrbe Roma secundum Chronicorum fidem satis antiquior est. Ab eisdem quip patribus Troianis haec prius a Bruto condita est, quàm illa a Remo et Romulo. unde et adhuc antiquis eisdem utuntur legibus, communibus institutis. Haec similiter illi regionibus est distincta: habet annuos pro consulibus vicecomites: habet senatoriam dignitatem & magistratus minores: E●uuiones et aquaeductus in vicis: Ad genera causarum deliberativae, demonstrativae, iudicialis loca sua, fora singula: habet sua diebus statutis comitia. Non puto urbem esse in qua sint probabiliores consuetudines, in ecclesiis visitandis, ordinatis Dei honorandis, festis feriandis, eleemosinis dandis, in hospitibus ●uscipiendis, in desponsationibus firmandis, matrimoniis contrahendis, nuptiis celebrandis, convivijs ornandis, convivis hilarandis, etiam in exequiis curandis & cadaveribus humandis. Solae pestes Londini sunt, immoderata stultorum potatio, et frequens incendium. Ad haec omnes ferè Episcopi, Abbates, & Magnates Angliae, quasi cives et municipes sunt urbis Londoniae: sua ibi habentes aedificia praeclara, ubi serecipiunt, ubi divites impensas faciunt, ad consilia, ad conventus celebres in urbem evocati, a Domino rege, vel Metropolitano suo, seu propriis tracti negotiis. De Ludio. AMplius et ad ludos urbis veniamus, quomam non expedit utilem tantùm et seriam vrbem esse, nisi dulcis etiam sit, & jucunda. unde et in sigillis summorum Pontificum, usque ad tempora Leonis Papae, ex altera part Bullae, sculpto per impressionem piscatore Petro, et supra eum clave, quasi manu Dei de coelis ei porrecta, et circa eum versu, Tu pro me navem liquisti, suscipe clavem. Ex altera part impressa erat vrb●● et scriptura ista, Aurea Roma. Item ad laudem Gaesaris Augusti, et Romae dictum est. Nocte pluit tota, redeunt spectaculamane, Divisum imperium cum jove Caesar habes. Lundonia pro spectaculis theatralibus, pro ludis scenicis, ludos habet sanctiores, representationes miraculorum, quae sancti Confessores operati sunt, feu repraesentationes passionum, quibus claruit constantia Martyrum. Praeterea quotannis die, quae dicitur Carnivale ut â puerorum ludis incipiamus (omnes enim puerifuimus) scholarum singuli pueri suos apportant magistro suo gallos gallinaceos pugnatores, & totum illud antemeridianum datur ludo puerorum vacantium spectare in scholis suorum pugnas gallorum. Post prandium exit in campos omnis juventus urbis ad lusum pilae celebrem. Singulorum studiorum scolares suam habent pilam: singulorum officiorum urbis exercitores suam singuli pilam in manibus. Maiores natu patres & divites urbis, in equis spectatum veniunt certamina iuniorum, & modo suo inveniuntur cum iwenibus: & excitari videtur in eis motus caloris naturalis, contemplatione tanti motus & participatione gaudiorum adolescentiae liberioris. Singulis diebus dominicis in Quadragesima post prandia exit in campos iwenum recens examen in equis bellicosis: in equls certamine primis: quorum quisque aptus & in gyros currere doctus equus. Erumpunt a portis cateruatim filij civium laici, instructi lanceis & scutis militaribus: iuniores hastilibus ferro dempto praefurcatis, simulachra belli cient & agonisticam exercent militarem. Adueniunt & plurimi Aulici rege in vicino posito, & de familijs consulum & Baronum ephebi: non dum cingulo donati militiae, gratia concertandi. Accendit singulos spes victoriae: equi feri adhinniunt, tremunt artus, fraenos mandunt, impatientes morae stare loco nesciunt. Cum tandem Sonipedum rapit ungula cursum, sessores adolescentes divi sis agminibus hij praecedentibus instant, nec assequuntur, hij socios deijciunt & preteruolant. In feriis paschalibus ludunt quasi praelia navalia: in arbore siquidem mediamna scuto fortiter innexo, navicula remo & raptu fluminis cita, in prora stantem habet iwenem scutum illud lancea percussurum: qui si scuto illi lanceam illidens frangat eam, & immotus persistat, habet propositum, voti compos est: si vero lancea integra fortiter percusserit, in profluentem amnem deiicitur: Navis motu suo acta praeterit. Sunt tamen hinc inde secus scutum duae naves stationariae, & in eis iwenes plurimi, ut eripiant percussorem flumine absorptum cum primo emersus comparet, vel summa rursus cum bullit in unda. Supra pontem & in solariis supra flwium, sunt qui talia spectent, multum ridere parati. In festis tota aestate iwenes ludentes exercentur, in saliendo, in arcu, in lucta, iactu lapidum, amentatis missilibus ultra metam expediendis, parmis duellionum. Puellarum Cytheraea ducit choros, & pede libera pulsatur tellus, usque imminente luna. In hyeme singulis fere festis ante prandium, vel apri Spumantes pugnant pro capitibus, & verres● fulmineis accincti dentibus addendi Succidiae, velpingues tauri Cornupetae, seu ursi immanes cum obiectis depugnant canibus. Cúm est congelata palus illa magna quae maenia vibis aquilonalia alluit, exeunt lusum super glaciem densae invenum turmae: Hi ex cursu motu captato citatiore, distantia pedum posita, magnum spatium latere altero praetenso perlabuntur. Alii quasi magnos lapides molares de glacie sedes sibi faciunt: sessorem unum trahunt plurimi praecurrentes, manibus se tenentes: In tanta citatione motus aliquando pedibus lapsi cadunt omnes proni. Suntalii super glaciem ludere doctiores, singuli pedibus suis aptantes, & sub talaribus suis alligantes ossa, tibias scilicet animalium, & palos ferro acuto superposito tenentes in manibus, quos aliquando glaciei allidunt: tanta rapacitate feruntur, quanta avis volans, vel pilum balistae. Interdum autem permagna procul distantia ex condicto, duo aliqui ita ab oppositis veniunt, concurritur: palos erigunt, se invicem percutiunt: vel alter, vel ambo cadunt, non sine laesione corporali: cùm post casum etiam vi motus feruntur ab invicem procul: & qua part glacies caput tangit, totum radit, totum decorticat. Plerumque tibia cadentis, vel brachium, si super illud ceciderit, confringitur. Sed aetas avida gloriae, juventus cupida victoriae, ut in veris praeliis fortius se habeant, ita in simulatis exercentur. Plurimi civium delectantur, ludentes in avibus coeli, Nisis, accipitribus & huiusmodi, & in canibus militantibus in siluis. Habentque cives suum ius venandi, in Middlesexia, Hertfordscira, & tota Chiltra, & in Cantiausque ad aquam Craiae. Lundonienses tunc Trinouantes decti Gaium julium Cesaren, qui nullas nisi sanguine fuso vias habere gaudebat, repulerunt. unde Lucanus. Territa quaesitis ostendit terga Britannis. Civitas Lundonia reperit aliquos, qui regna plurima, et Romanum sibi subdiderunt imperium: et plurimos alios, quos mundi Dominos virtus evexit ad Deos, ut fuerat in Apollinis oraculo Bruto promissum: Brute sub occasu solis, trans Gallica regna, Insula in Oceano est undique clausa mari: Hanc pete: namque tibi sedes erit illa perennis Haec fiet natis altera Troia tuis. Hic de stirpe tua reges nascentur; & ipsis Totius terrae subditus orbis erit. In temporibus Christianis nobilem illum edidit Imperatorem Constantinum, qui urbem Roman, et imperialia insignia omnia Deo donavit, & beato Petro et Siluestro Papae, cui & stratoris exhibuit officium, & se non amplius Imperatorem, sed sanctae ecclesiae Romanae defensorem gavisus est vocari: et ne pax Domini Papae occasione praesentiae eius secularis strepitus tumultu concuteretur, ipse ab urbe Domino Papae collata discessit, & sibi civitatem Bizantium edificavit. Lundonia & modernis temporibus, reges illustres magnificosque peperit, Imperatricem Matildem, Henricum regem tertium, & beatum Thomam Archiepiscopum Christi Martyrem gloriosum, quali non candidiorem tulit, nec quo fuerit devinctior alter omnibus bonis totius orbis Latini. Faults escaped in this book. Page. Line. Errat. Correction. 1. 19 for Themantius read Theomantius. 3. 9 Cominus Comius. 4. 15. forfeited fortified. 5. 21. come Rome. 7. 15. Cornwell Cornwall. ibid. 27. Trinauant. Trinobant. 8. 3. Ethelrod Ethelred. 9 20. the same the same wall. 10. 13. Tedwell Todwell. 13. 7. writing written. 16. 23 Bulman Bulmar. 21. 5 15. 215. 23. 6 stage siege. 36. 6 weaklely new. 49. 22. 3. 16. ibid. 25. 7. 17. 52. 22 Efford Voffurd. 73. 24. bray Berie. 74. 25. Libnor liquor. 79. 16. Picad Picard. ibid. 29 Henty Hugh. 100 4.8.9 Troynage. Tronage. 109. 35. Michael Nychell. 124. 10. Breadstreet Brode street. 154. 14. 1482. 1582. ibid. 17. Hudstone Rudstone. 155. 1. About at. 168. 34. of Mayor of mayoraltie 1584. sir William Garrard Mayor. ●83. 9 this his 306. 20 Sir George Saint George. 336. 17 lane place. 444. 26 Senins jenins. FINIS.