THE Honourable Apprentice: OR, This Tailor is a man.  
showed in the life and death of Sir John Hawkewood, sometime Apprentice of London: interlaced with the famous History of the noble Fitzwalter, Lord of Woodham in Essex, and of the poisoning of his fair Daughter: Also of the merry customs of Dunmow, where any one may freely have a Gammon of Bacon, that reputes not marriage in a year and a day.  
Whereunto is annexed the most lamentable murder of Robert Hall at the High Altar in Westminster Abbey.  
¶ Printed at London for Henry Gosson, and are to be sold in Pannier alley. 1615.   

TO MY MOST loving and respected friend Master Robert Valens, health, and all happiness.  
Such is now, and evermore hath been, the inconstant, and interchangeable estate of human affairs (good Sir) that nothing hath been which hath not had his increase, his height, as also his declining: and albeit, it may be said that among the rest, martial discipline was never in any age neglected, or unregarded: Yet can it not be denied, but that in former ages the same hath been managed with much more honourable regard and reward, than now it is. Witness the many honours, which the greeks, and Romans allowed to Soldiers, and men of high desert. And in especial, the stately and costly Triumphs which were allowed to their Consuls or Generals, that were Victors; and had conquered, or subdued any Nation or Country to their obeysence. Neither have writers left their achievements or worthy designs unrecovered, and smothered in oblivion: which benefit many worthy Commanders of our Nation have wanted. Among which, john Hawkewood, whose honour and memoriable exploits, acted in Foreign Countries had been forgotten, had not Paulus iovius, and some few others rather remembered them, then expressed them according to their worth. This moved me some few years since, for my own recreation, to collect these Histories ensuing: hoping that some one or other, better furnished then myself, would have undertaken to deliver them to the world in more ample manner, and more plausible terms: which not falling out according to my expectation, but being put to the Press, I being most assured of your generous and worthy disposition, have imbouldened myself in this to make tender of that love which I bear and owe to your virtues: wishing to you all that happiness which may equal your godly and virtuous intendments,  
Yours in all W. U.   

The Introduction  
IT is observed that the Almighty Creator and Governor of this great & large universe, the world; without diminishing his own ininfinite, & uncircumscribed power, or neglect of his protection and government: hath yet appointed the sup-, riot seven planets, by terms to govern the world under him: each for the space of three hundred fifty and odd years: who according to their several honours and influences, impart their several natures and properties to mortal men. Which is the cause that some ages are given to peace and quiet, some to war, some to study, and invention of sciences, some to travail, and search strange and unknown lands to plant inhabitants, some to propagate religion, etc. But if any age or time hath had Mars for governor, I doubt not but about the days of King Edward the third, and his Father, and his son, this Government must be. All Christian Princes, yea, and the heathen intending nothing but wars, bloodshed, stratagems, and conquests. In these time's valour, and magnanimity was esteemed, had in price, and bountifully rewarded. Honour, and promotion attending on such as could, and had means to deserve it. In these times men from mean estates arise to high promotion, and dignities: honour, fame, and renown attending on such, as could with wisdom and courage follow the wars.   


THE Famous History of Sir john Hawkewood: sometimes PRENTICE of LONDON.  
ABout the beginning of the reign of King Edward the third, there lived in the county of Essex, in the town of Henningham Syble, a man of honest report & reputation; named, Gilbert Hawkewood, by his trade and profession, a Tanner, who among other children had a son named john, a youth forward, and apt for any good impression, or matter which might be imposed on him: Him he brought up, in such learning, as might after stand him in steed, and such as those times afforded, which he diligently applied, insomuch as in writing, reading, and casting accounts, and other rudiments of great scollership he exceeded his equals. So soon as he came to reasonable years, and was fit for the City, his Father brought him to London, and bound him apprentize to a Tailor, who were not then called Merchant Tailors, but Tailors, and linen Armourers: with this Tailor he remained, performing all such duties as others that were his fellow prentices used to do unto, and for their Masters, until the King having employed many thousands of men in his conquest of France, and forced to plant and man many Garrisons, in Cities, Castles, & towns, which he had won and taken, sent yet again into England, for new supply of Soldiers, pressing many householders, & servants to supply his Armies, and to manage his intended conquest of France. Then was john Hawkhood, albeit young, thought meet and able to serve. Himself rather willing to be so employed, then to sit all day on a shop board making trusses, sowing stockings, or fashioning, or shaping of Garments. His spirit & Genius leading him rather to follow Arms after the sound of trumpet and drum, then be at the hand, at the call of his master or mistress. To France he went, as also many other prentices of his acquaintance and familiars, He served an Archer, with his bow & shafts, in no better place than a common Sentinel, or of the still watch, as it then was termed, and in short space, (such was his carriage, valour, and courage) that he was promoted to be a commander, or corporal, after a Sergeant, then Ancient, after that Lieutenant, and last of all Captain, and served with his company of two hundred and fifty men, all Archers, with such good and happy success, as that he was evermore preferred to the best and most dangerous oppositions of the enemy. The black Prince his general, having a watchful eye of his behaviour, and his valour, loving him, and esteeming him more than ordinary, oftentimes called him to council in weighty affairs, and found him to be of an excellent sharp, and deep judgement; and often preferred his advise before others, who were esteemed much more worthy, and were become famous for their council: neither was his estimation only for council, but for execution, he surpassed in speed & forwardness his fellow Captains. The particulars of his services are not recorded, but lie unknown, and covered in the names of chief Commannders and Generals. Let this sufice, that for his valiant exploits and hardiness he was dignified with the honour of Knighthood. Albeit he was thought the poorest Knight in the Army. He was in possibility of great preferment, and of great riches, if those wars of France had continued: but the French overwearied, & driven to narrow straits, were right glad to conclude a peace, which was concluded and made in Britain, at or near▪ Chartires, in thee year of our Lord 1360.  
The black Prince with the chiefest of his Soldiers, were after employed in the wars of Spain, many returned for England, and others could not by any means be drawn from out of France: and from such places and preferments, as with their swords they had purchased. But john Hawkewood joining himself and his company with such as were called the new men, or late comers, determined, to seek better fortunes, and raise his estate with the spoil of his enemies, and so with a settled resolution to pass through the East parts of France unto Italy, to follow the wars there. He took his journey in despite of any powers that could be made to resist him, through champaign, Burgundy, and Dauphin, and came into Province, even to the very gates of avignon, where the Pope keeps his Court, & residence of Cardinals: Great and exceeding rich were the spoils which he and his Followers got in this journey: but much more was the honour, fame, and renown which he purchased. He never attempted, but he conquered, nor never skermished, or fought battle, but evermore he bore away the victory. He was the sole and general Commander of all which followed him, which of their apparel, which he newly made for them, were called the white band, which consisted of five thousand horse, and one thousand and five hundred foot, whereof the most part were English, and Archers.  
Thus entered he into Lumberdy, and was entertained by the Marquis of Mountferratto, a great Prince, who made unto him large payment, and royal pay, to the full content of himself, his Captains, and Soldiers: beside, rich spoils, which they obtained and got of the Marquis enemies. In these wars he spent some time, to the great honour and fame of our English Nation.  
At this time Lionel the Duke of Clarence, third son to King Edward, arrived in Italy, with an honourable company, to marry the Lady Violetta, daughter to viscount Galeasius, Duke of Milan, which gave unto Sir john Hawkewood occasion to take leave of the Marquis, and become a follower of the Duke of Clarence to the marriage: where, morem like a Courtier, than a Soldier (trained up as he was) he behaved himself with such commendable and heroic carriage, as that he deserved to be beloved both of the Duke, and of his Father-in law Galeasius: but most of all, Barnaby, brother of Galeasius, a warlike Prince, admired his virtues, and knowing of his valour and resolution, never rested to entreat the Duke of Clarence, till he had obtained licence of him that Sir john Hawkewood might with his companies serve him in his wars against the state of Mantua, which wars he managed in behalf of Barnaby, in such sort, as that he in sundry ●ighte, and skirmishes overthrew his enemies, making himself, and the English men so famous▪ and renowned, that all Italy seared them, and accounted Barnaby happy in his entertainment, who on the other side, admired the discipline, and valiant demeanour of our Nation: and so entirely loved and honoured this Giovanno Acutho, for so the Italians called him, that he gave unto him in marriage his daughter Dominia, which he had by a Lady of high birth and nobility, named, Porra, and with her 10000 Florence's of yéeraly revenue. Thus was his glory, honour, and name more spread, and admired, his riches increased, and the more for that Barnaby was esteemed and accounted the most valiant and the worthiest Soldier of his time.  
But to the great wonder of all men, when the Duke of Clarence died at Alba, the English men revolted from the friendship of Galesius, and Barnaby, and Sir john Hawkewood with his Army, joined with their enemies. By means of such alteration and change of affections (grounded upon what occasions I do not read) I find that many towns and Cities of Lombary, were spoiled and wasted by his power: all Italy feared him, and well was that Prince which might give him entertainment. But being yet out of pay, his order was to take one City or other, and with the spoil thereof pay his Soldiers, and men of war. But if they would save themselves from spoil and ruin he ransomed them, and would sometimes sell them to such as were enemies to the owners of them. At these times he took the Towns of Faensa, and Bagnacavallo: the one he sold to the Marquis of East, for two hundred thousand Crowns. That of Bagnacavallo, he kept and held as his own a long time; yet at last, Astrogian Manfredy got it from him by treason. Being weary of being out of pay & wages, he was sent unto Pope Gregory the twelfth, whose Cities in Province revolted from him, whereupon he entertained Sir john Hawkewood, and made him his General: For whom he recovered all those Cities & towns, which refused his obedience. For which service he was beside his ordinary pay, well rewarded, and by the Pope's appointment, made Governor of five great towns. In these wars I read that he by mischance was once taken prisoner, but by the great valour and worthiness of his Captains and Soldiers, recovered from out the hands of his enemies, with whom he was most honourably used and entreated. Having ended the wars for the B. of Rome, and utterly refusing to be idle and out of pay, he was solicited by many free Cities, and states of Italy to serve. Amongst whom the City & State of Florence proffered him most, and them he served, with great commendation and honour. From them he went to the Pysans, with whom when he had served a space, he was again solicited by the Florentines, who increasing his pay, and allowing better means to his Soldiers, and followers, obtained his good will again: with whom he served a long time after, with such success, and increase of his commendation, & glorious renown, that he was held and esteemed to be the only, absolute, and the best Soldier that then lived: For having an exceeding sharp. ripe, and quick conceit, he had learned by long experience in the wars. he had learned to force occasions, and politicly to frame his resolutions. He was also speedy in execution, and whensoever occasion required, he was as hot in fight, as notable in delays. So that sundry great Captains who after were most highly renowned, proceeded from his school, as from an exact Master of martial discipline. The exploits which he achieved with good success, were accounted as sure grounds and principles of warlike discipline, as well amongst his enemies, as amongst his own followers. Thus waxed he old in the wars, and after an incomparable renown amongst all men for his virtues and true valour, he departed this mortal life at Florence, and like a soldier was most honourably buried in their Cathedral Church: and in regard that he had in his life been a notable defender of their Common wealth. The Senate and Citizens in reward thereof, erected a stately Tomb and Monument, with the image of a man on horseback, as great as a mighty pillar, for a Monument and testimony of his prows in war, and his fidelity to them and their state.  
A great part of his riches and wealth was converted into England, where also his executors, or otherwise his friends at Hunningham Syble where he was borne, erected for him a tomb or Monument, arched over, and engraved the likeness of Hawks in a wood flying. This was done in the Parish Church by Robert Rokeden Senior, and Robert Rokeden junior, & john Cooe: and to the memory of so worthy a man they builded and founded a Chantry, which with the rest is dissolved.  
He was by some called Gyovanno Agutho, by some Acutho: for that the Italians could not well pronounce his name in English. I have read him called in English Sir john Sharpe, Sir john Acton: and Sir john Hawkewood, which was indeed his name.  
The Chronicles of Italy do make often and honourable mention of him, and our Histories do also remember him: amongst which I have thought good to set down the words of Thomas of Walsingham in Latin as I find them, as also of Paulus iovius and others.  

Thomas Walsingham.  
Per idem tempus Papa fovebat Guerram contra dominos mediolanenses quia ipsi tirannice & injust, ●erras, redditus, & castella de patrimonio beati Petri longo tempore detinebant. Pro papa vero militabat dominus de Spencer qui laudabiliter se gessit ibidem post mortem ducis Clarentiae cum quo pervenit ad partes illas.  
Eodem tempore Floriut miles ille egregius & famosus johannes Hawkewood, Anglicus natione, habens secum albam illam comitivam pertactam superius qui nunc contra papam▪ nunc contra dominos, mediolanenses bella gerebat, cuius pars quocunque vertebat semper vincebat. Multa itaque facta egregia ibidem operatus est cum suis Imo mirabilia, & Inauditasi quis vellet singula eius gesta enarrare.   

Paulus iovius,  

Anglorum egressus patrijs Acuthus ab oris  
Italiae primum climata laetus adit  
Militiae fuerat, quascunque edoctus & artes  
Ausonia exeruit non semel ipse plagas,  
Vt donaretur Statuae defunctus equestri  
Debita nam virtus praemia semper habet.    

Nicholaus Machiavelli.  
Quo vero ab externis insidijs munitiores essent joannem Aguthu●● Anglum belli ducem celeberrimum, quod antea papa aliisque Italis egregie operam suam navasset, ad stipendia sera vocarunt.   

julius Feroldus.  

Hawkewood Anglorum decus, & decus addite genti  
Italicae, Italico praesidiumque solo  
Vt tumuli quondam Florentia sic simulacrì,  
Virtutem iovius donat Honore tuam.   
His Picture may be seen in the Book of Paulus iovius de Eulogiis.    

The Preface or Introduction.  
IT hath ever been held a most commendable thing to recount the Acts of ancient Nobility: but much more laudable to recover them from the devouring jaws of all-eating time, which commonly doth swallow the best actions, and adventures of elder ages, and retains only the memory of such exploits and adventures as the later age▪ namely what their Grandfathers have by hand delivered, and by tradition left to posterity. The ancient Britons or the Welshmen, had their Barths or Bardi; as also their druids, the last attentive on their religion and sacrifices: the first, wholly busied and respective about the recording and repeating, or rather singing the adventures of their Ancestors, delivering from one to another, as it were an exact Chronicle, of the most notable adventures of their Nobility; and have not only amongst them, but the like amongst the Galls and Cimbrians (from whom the best learned suppose the Britons do proceed) been had in reverend estimation and credit: but as concerning the ensuing history, which I purpose to write; we need no tradition to help us, since there yet remains large and ample records: both Chronicles and histories printed, and written manuscripts which bear testimony of that which is hereafter delivered: Records in the Town, and several Stories and Registers belonging to such houses as were by them builded; or such as they have new founded: And these remain in the hands and private custody of particular men: but what I shall here deliver, I have found both in old written histories, in common Chronicles, as also out of Records remaining, as I said in the Tower of London: being the adventures of Robert Fitzwalter, who lived in the days of King john, and suffered the variable changes of his fortunes, as by that which followeth shall appear. Whatsoever error I shall commit, shall not be of purpose, but for want of sufficient instructions, which whosoever can or will take pains to correct and amend, I will hold myself exceedingly well pleased, and be content that first I have adventured to entreat of them. So read and use them at your pleasure.  
W. V.   

The famous history of Robert Fitz-walter.  

Of Robert Fitz-walter his Ancestors.  
THat this Family of Fitzwalters, hath of long time been of honourable reputation and account, need not many proofs: the same not contradicted but by a general consent, known to descend from Gislebert, or Gilbert Lord of Clare and Tonbridge, and also from Waltheof Earl of Northumberland which lived in William the Conqueror's time, and judith Countess of Huntingdon, who was niece to the Conqueror.  
It is not amiss to note that our English nation used no Surnames till after the conquest, but took names either of the Christian name of their parents or of the place where they were borne, or of some other accident, as their trade, occupation, or of some quality of body or mind, wherewith they were endowed.  
The first of this family of Fitzwalters that descended from the house of Clare, was Robert Fitz Richard being indeed one of the younger sons of Richard Fitz-Gilbert Lord of Clare. This Robert had a son called Walter, surnamed after his father's Christian name: Fitz-Robert and he had a son called Robert Fitz walter being the son of Walter, after whom this name of Fitz-walter was settled in this family, whereof I entreat: This Robert lived in the time of King john, and died Anno 1● 34. 19 H 3 and that Robert who is mentioned in this Book, was his grandchild, and lived long after in the time of K. Edw. 1.  
Walter Fitz-walter, father of this Robert was first married to Matild or Maud de Beecham, and secondly to Mauld de ●ucy, mother to Robert of whom I entreat, whose father died An. Dom. 1198. and was buried at Dunmow, where he founded a priory, leaving Robert his son to succeed him, called Robert Fitz-walter Lord of Woodham, a Town in Essex, of which name there are also two other Towns, namely Woodham Ferrer, and Woodham Mortimer as also this Woodham walter's, whereof the Fitz welter's were Lords.   

Of his marriage, and of his fair daughter Mauld or Matild.  
I Wishingly omit his bringing up, which could not be but according to the estate of his nobility, and birth: but his forwardness and readiness to conceive and learn whatsoever was taught him, exceeded the common sort of his equals: but chiefly he excelled in exercise of Arms, wherein he wholly delighted and over went the rest of his familiars, and such as were brought up with him. When he came to man's estate, he betook himself to marriage, and by his wife, who lived not long with him, who also may seem not to have lived with him so contentedly as was to be required, he had one only daughter whom he loved most entirely, and caused her to be brought up in virtue and learning, wherein she prospered to the great contentment and joy of her Father, and comfort of her mother, who notwithstanding shortly after died, and left her sole governor of her Father's house, which was great consisting of many people, servingmen, and household servants: all which she governed, and under her father ruled, with such discreet and modest behaviour, as was of all people wondered at, in respect of her tender age and youth: beside she was of such excellent and surpassing beauty, as alured the eyes of all sorts of people to gaze and wonder at it, nature having wrought in her mind an example of all womanhood, and in her body and countenance, a pattern and model of all perfection, which being known at the Court, as also throughout the land: she was commanded to attend the Court amongst Ladies of her regard and equal estimation: being at Court and daily attendant on the Queen. The King himself (I mean King john) still respecting and gazing at her exquisite carriage, and the perfection of her beauty, fell so far from himself, and that which became his person and estate, that he bent all his ende●ors to solicit her of love, which she as fully resolute most constantly denied. The repulsed King left not so his unlawful suit for all her denial, but practised to procure her father to be a means for his unlawful and ungodly request: a matter so far from Kingly dignity, a thing so dishonourable for him to attempt or undergo, as that for it, he ever after (how ever for the time he bore fair weather) persecuted and hated the King most deadly: and it seemed to him being a man of high courage and resolution, so profane and so heinous a request, as was from his very soul to be abhorred and detested: nature not brooking the father to become a Pander to his child: but such was the love or rather lust of this lascivious King, that the poor virgin not other wise able to avoid his importunate cute, besough her father that she might be professed a Nun or votary at Dunmow, whereunto her father consented, trusting that her absence would allay and assuage his lust, and cause him to leave his unhallowed suit: but it prevailed not, but as a Lion bereft of his prey grew more curaged then before, appointing a messenger which he procured and hired of purpose, whose errand was either to persuade her to consent to the King's request, or by poison to take away her life: in the end when nothing could persuade her▪ he according to his direction poisoned her. I have read that it was secretly done with a poatched egg, the salt being poisoned which was for her sauce: Others say with 
〈◊〉 mat 〈◊〉 Mi●●raiton 〈◊〉 ●ers 〈◊〉 ●●tten  a cup of poison which he enforced her to drink: but howsoever great mischief befell after this lamentable Tragedy, which well near had overthrown the Kingdom and Country. This was about the year of our Lord 1213.   

Of the Barons war, and the banishment of this Robert Fitz-walter.  
FOr this occasion and many other grievances, the Barons together with this Robert arose, and made war against the King, driving him to such extremity, that he was forced to deliver the City to the Barons, and the Tower of London to the Archbishop of Canterbury on certain conditions, whereof I have seen the copy of a Charter or deed remaining in the Tower of London to this purpose.  
The agreement between King john of the one part, and Robert Fitz-walter, Marshal for the army of God and the Church of England, Richard Earl of Clare, Geffrey Earl of Essex, and Gloucester Roger Bygot, Earl of N●rfolke and Suffolk, Sa●r Earl of Winchester, Robert Earl of Oxford, Henry Earl of Hereford, and the Barons underwritten, that is to say William Marshal the younger, Eustace de vescie, William de Mowbray, john Fitz-roberts, Roger de Mountbegon, William de Lannavaile, and other Earls and Barons with those above wr●tten together, with the freemen of the whole kingdom, that they aforesaid shall hold the City of London, of the King's deliverance, saving to the King, in the mean time, all farms, rents, and his clear debts, until the ascension of the Virgin Marie, which shall be in the 17. year of his reign: and the Lord of Canterbury shall likewise hold of the King's deliverance the tower of London, unto the foresaid term, saving to the City of London, their liberties and the customs, and to every man his right in the custody or keeping of the Tower of London: and if so be that some things named in that Grant be performed by the King: or that they be not hindered to be by him performed within the said term: that then the said City shall be delivered to the King, within the said term, saving the liberty and customs of the said City: and if they be not performed, but hindered by the King: Then the said Barons to hold the said City, and the Lord Archbishop the Tower until they be performed. And in the mean time all men on either side, to receive the Lands, Castles, and Towns which they had, the beginning of the war between the King and the Barons, etc.  
Hereby appeareth that the people of England had great affiance in the wisdom and valour of this Robert: for they chose him for their chief commander, and General of their Host, by the name of Martial.  
The King after this agreement found means to banish Robert, and divers others of the Barons, whereof some fled into Scotland, some into France: Thither also fled Robert Fitz-walter: The king considering what damage his own subjects and people might do unto him in France: prepared an Army and sailed over and met the French king, where each army being prepared, and articles of peace and truce proposed, they agreed upon a truce for five years. Whilst both the hosts lay still about this composition. There was an English knight which made offer to Just with any knight of the French host, which challenge Robert Fitz-walter, obtained to answer on behalf of the French: So he ferried over on horsebarke to the English Host, there being a small River betwixt them, and in fight of both kings and armies Robert over threw and unhorsed the English challenger or champion, whereat king john was wroth, and swore by God's tooth which was his usual oath, that he were a king indeed that had such a knight: Some of Roberrs friends informed him and said it is your own knight Robert Fitz-walter, and humbly be sought his pardon, which the king granted, and so his lands were restored: and his Castle at London which was defaced and taken from him, called Bainard's Castle, was with licence of the king repaired and réedified, of which Castle and the custom belonging thereunto, I have read in a very ancient written Book of the customs of London, that which followeth, which also is remembered by john Stow in his Annals.    

The ceremonies and rights which belong to Robert Fitzwalter, Chasteline of London, and Lord of Woodham; that is, he ought to be chief Bannerer, or Bauner-bearer of London, as in fee, which belongeth to his Castle Bainard, which services he ought to perform in time of war.  
THe said Robert as his Ancestors have done, and 
Vide Io. St●w in Sutuay of London.  his heirs ought to do, when there is preparation for war, he ought to come upon his steed, covered, he being the twentieth man of Arms, his comparisons of cloth, or iron, unto the great door of the Minster, or Cathedral Church of Saint Paul, with his Banner displayed, with his Arms in it; and when he is come to the great door of the Church, mounted, and appareled as before. The Mayor with the Shereffes and Aldermen armed, shall come forth to the door of the said Church or Minster on foot, the Mayor having a Banner of Saint Paul in his hands, which Banner shall be of vermaile, with an Image of Saint Paul of gold, with feet, head, and hands of silver; with a sword of silver in the hand of the said Image: and when the said Robert shall see him come forthwith such a banner, he shall alight from his horse, and salute the Mayor as his fellow and compavion, and shall say, Sir Maior I am come to do my service which I owe unto the City▪ and they shall say, we give to you as to our Bannerer, in see, this Banner of this town, to bear and govern to the honour and profit of this City to your power. And the said Robert and his heirs shall receive the said Banner in his hands. and go on foot out of the gate or door, with the Banner in his hands, and be Mayor and Sheriffs shall fellow him to the door, and present unto him twenty pound sterling in money, and deliver it to his Chamberlain for his expenses that day: Also a horse worth twenty pounds, with a Saddle with the Arms of the said Robert on it engraven, the saddle shall be covered with Sl●ndall, and his Arms also embrothered. And the said Robert shall mount upon the said horse, with the Banner in his hand, and when he is up, he shall say to the Mayor, that he cause a Marshal to be chosen for the host, one of the City; and when the Marshal is chosen, the said Robert shall command the Mayor that he assemble the burgesses, and Commoners of the City, and they shall all go under the Banner of Saint Paul; and the said Robert shall bear it himself unto Algate: being come there, the said Kobert and the Mayor shall deliver it over to whom they shall think good, and if they have cause to go forth, Robert shall cause them to meet at the Priory of the Trinity: and the said Robert shall choose two forth of every ward, the most sage persons, to foresee that the City be safely kept, if the Host of London do besiege any town, or Castle. If the siege continue long, as a whole year, he is to receive for every siege of the Commonalty of London five pounds for his travail and no more.  

His Rights in time of Peace.  
THe said Robert hath a Sokne in the City, that is a wall in the Channonry of Saint Paul, as a man goeth down the street, before the brame of S. Paul, unto the Thames, and so to the side of the mill which is in the water, which cometh down from Fleet bridge, and goeth so by London wall, betwixt the friars Preachers, and Ludgate, and so returning back to the house of the said Friars, until the said comen of the wall of the said Channonry of S. Paul that is, all the parish of Saint Andrew, which is in the gift of his Ancestors, by the said signiortty and so the said Robert hath appendent to the said Sokue, all these things here under written, videlicet.  
That he ought to have Sokeman, and to place what Sokeman he will, so that he be of Sokemanrie.  
And if any of the Sokemanry be impleaded in the Guild Hall of any thing which toucheth not the body of the Mayor for the time being, or that toucheth not the body of no Sheriff; it is lawful for the Sokeman of the said Robert Fitswalter, to demand a Court of the said Fitzwalter; and the Mayor, and Citizens ought to grant him to have his Court, and in that Court, he ought to bring his judgement, as it is assented, and given in the Guild Hall.  
If any therefore be taken in his Sokne he ought to have his stocks, and his imprisonment in his Sokne, and he shall be brought from thence to the guilded Hall before the Mayor, and there they shall provide him his judgement, such as ought to be given him, but his judgement shall not be published, until he come in to the Court of the said Robert, and in his Fraunchéese, And the judgement shall be such.  
If he hath deserved death by treason, then to be tied to a pillar, which standeth in the Thames at Wood wharf, where Boats are fastened, two ebbings, and two flow of the water. And if he be condemned for a common thief, he ought to be led to the Elms, & there suffer his judgement, as other common thieves.  
And thus the said Robert, and his heirs have a great honour, which he holdeth for a great Frauncheese within the City, that the Mayor and the Citizens are bound to do him of right; that is to say, when the Mayor will hold a great Council, he ought to call the said Robert and his heirs to be with him in Council, and of Council with the City, And he ought to be sworn to be of Council to the City, against all people, saving the King, and his heirs. And when he cometh to the Hustings in Guild Hall, the Mayor, or his Lieutenant ought to rise against him, and set him down near unto him, and so long as he is in Guild Hall, all the judgements ought to be given by his mouth, according to the record of the Records of the same Guild Hal. And so many weyfes as come so long as he is there, he ought to give them to the Baylives of the City, or to whom he will, by the Counce l of the Mayor for the time be  
How this custom took beginning, or how it ended, I have not yet read, yet I thought good to repeat it, for that it belonged to his Castle, which honours were again restored and possessed by his successors. For I read that in Anno Dom. 1303. upon Saint Gregory's day, or the twelfth of March the thirty one year of King Edward, before john Le-Bloud then Mayor, William de Leyr, Thomas Romain, William de Bleton, Walter de Finchingfield, Henry de Gloucester, Solomon de Coetellier, john de Wengrave, john Darments, Hugh Pourt, & Simon de Paris, the Sheriffs, & Aldermen of London, and before six men every ward of London, Robert Fitzwalter came, and acknowledged service, and swore upon the Evangelist to be true to the City, and that he would uphold and maintain them to his power, and that he shall keep the counsel of the said City of London.  
The King notwithstanding these compositions, and agreements with his Barons, when all was thought to have been amended, did yet again urge his Nobles & Barons to rise in Arms against him. Insomuch as they sent for Lewis the French Kings son, promising to deliver the Crown and Kingdom unto him. Of those which sent for him, I have read the chiefest were Robert Fitzwalter, and Fulke Fitzwarrine, which two men he most had wronged and endamaged, the one for his daughter's death: the other for taking from him his Lordship of Whittington in Shropshire, and giving it away to the Prince of Wales, then called Lewis. Also Roger Bigot, and many others, who after King john his death, compounded with the French Kings son, and sent him away out of England, as onè that without their aid could not have what he desired.   

Of the Bacon at Dunmow priory.  
RObert Fitzwalter lived long after this beloved of King Henry, the son of King john, as also of all the Realm: He betook himself at his latter time to prayer, gave great and bountiful alms to that poor, kept great hospitality, and re-edified the decayed Priory of Dunmow, which one juga, a most devout and religious woman (in her kind) being his Ancestor, had builded. In which Priory arose a custom, began, and instituted either by him, or some of his successors, which is verified by a common proverb or saying, videl. That he which reputes him not of his marriage in a year and a day either sleeping, or waking, may lawiully go to Dunmowe, and fetch a Gammon of Bacon.  
It is most assured that such a custom there was, and that this Bacon was delivered with such solemnity, and triumph, as they or the priory, and the Townsmen could make. I have inquired of the manner of it, and can learn no more, but that it continued until the dissolution of the house, as also all the Abbeys.  
That the party or Pilgrim for Bacon, was to take his oath before the Prior, the Covent, and the whole town, humbly acknowledging in the Churchyard, upon two hard pointed stones: which s●ones some say are yet to be seen in the Priory Church-yard. His oath was ministered with such long process, and such solemn singing over him, as doubtless must make his pilgrimage, as I may term it, painful: after he was taken up, upon men's shoulders, and carried,  
First, about the Priory Church-yard, and after through the town, with all the Friars and brethren, and all the towns folk, young, and old, following him with shouts and acclamations, with his Bacon borne before him, and in such manner (as I have heard) he was sent home with his Bacon: of which, I find, some had a gammon, and others had a fléeke, or flych. For proof whereof, I have from out the Records of the house, found the names of three several persons, that at several times had it.   

Memorandum quod quidam Stevanus Samuel de Aston parva, in Com. Essex, etc.  
Which being in Latin entered into the book, which belongeth to the House, I have thus Englished.  
Be it remembered, that one Stephen Samuel of little As●on in the County of Essex husbandman, came to the Priory of Dunmow, on our Lady day in Lent, in the seventh year of King Edward the fourth▪ and required a Gammon of Bacon, and was sworn before Roger Rulcot then prior, and the Covent of this place, as also before a multitude of other neighbours: And there was delivered unto him a Gammon of Bacon.  
Also, Be it remembered that one Richard Wright of Badeourgh, near the City of Norwich, in the County of Norfolk, came and required of the Bacon of Dunmow, namely, the seventeenth day of April, in the twenty three year of the reign of Henry the siixth, and according to the form of the Charter was sworn before john Cannon, prior of this place, and the eduent, and many other neighbours, And there was delivered unto the said Richard, one sleech of Bacon.  
Again, Memorandum, that in the year of our Lord 1510. Thomas Le Fuller of Coggeshall, in the County of Essex, came to the priory of Dunmowe, and required to have some of the Bacon of Dunmow, and on the eighth day of September being Sunday, in the second year of King Henry the eighth, he was according to the form of the Charter sworn before john Taylor, than prior of the house, and the Covent: as also before a multitude of neighbours, and there was delivered to the said Thomas a Gammon of Bacon.  
Hereby appeareth that it was given according to a Charter, or donation, given by some conceited Benefactor to the house: and it is not to be doubted but that at such a time, the bordering Towns and villages, would resort, and be partakers of their pastime: and laugh to scorn the poor man's pains.   

The order of the Oath.  

YOu shall swear by custom of confession,  
If ever you made nuptial transgression:  
Be you either married man or wife,  
By house hold brawls, or contentious strife,  
Or otherwise in bed, or at board,  
Offend each other in deed, or word;  
Or since the parish clerk said Amen,  
You wished yourselves unmarried again:  
Or in a twelvemonths' time and a day,  
Repent not in thought any way:  
But continued true, and just in desire,  
As when you joined hands in the holy choir.  
If to these conditions without all fear,  
Of your own accord, you will freely swear,  
A whole Gammon of Bacon you shall receive,  
And bear it hence with love and good leave.  
For this is our custom a Dunmow well known;  
Though the pleasure be ours, the Bacons your own.     

The manner of the murder of Robert Hall in the Abbey of Westminster at the High Altar.  
THe most renowned, valiant, and victorious King Edward the third, making claim to the Kingdom and Crown of France, as his proper right and inheritance lawfully descended unto him, by right and title of the Queen his mother, made such hot and sharp wars upon the then living King of France: That being seconded by his thrice valiant and worthy sons, especially his eldest, surnamed the black Prince, he drove the French into such a narrow strait and exigent, as that they feared the utter conquest and overthrow of their Kingdom and State.  
Never was King more fortunate or happy in his children, nor never did age breed more valiant captains, and chief commanders than this, the chiefest whereof, besides the King, and his valiant sons and the Nobility, were Robert Knols, Hugh Caverley, of Cheshire, Croker of Oxfordshire, Shandoys, etc. Besides john Hawkewood, (never to be forgotten) who after the end of these wars in France, took with him his companies both horse and foot, which were at his command. And in Italy acted wonders, was most highly esteemed and honoured, of whose adventures and worthy deeds, the Histories of Italys make large report, who at last there died, and in Pavia (as I remember hath a most worthy monument erected for him: of these captains Hawkewood amongst the Italians was called Io. Acuth.  
These captains as also many others (according to the use of conquerors) had given unto them lands, offices, and preferments, as keeping of Eastles, Cities, Towns, and countries, which in the behalf and right of King Edward, they with great and stout resolution held and maintained, in despite of all the French, or any power they could make: who being wearied and outworn with the terror of these wars, (their estate still waxing worse and worse) solicited the Pope, and all the Princes of Christendom, to be a means unto King Edward of their peace, which was at last granted, and the English forces abated and withdrawn: But the chiefest could not so easily be with drawn from such places, as with their swords they had conquered: nor from those honours and preferments, which with expense of their blood, were in reward of their valour and service given unto them, until occasion presented a fit means of policy, wherein the French exceed the English (as Comineus witnesseth) as in field or battle the English exceed the French.  
It happened at the same very time, that Peter the lawful King of Castille, or Spain, was expulsed his kingdom by his bastard brother Henry, and in the year 1380. came to Bordeaux to the black Prince, craving aid and succour against his usurping brother. This matter was furthered by the French, who were most desirous of his absence▪ well knowing that the English Captains and soldiers would follow him as the Flower of Chivalry: and the honour and glory of his time.  
The Prince accepted of Peter's request, and forthwith obtained licence of his Father, to transport or rather lead his Army into Spain: where in a main battle fought at Nazers, Henry the Fastard was defeated, overcome, his Army dispersed, and 6000: slain, and 200. taken prisoners, amongst which the Earl of Deue and Bertrand Clakyn, were most remarkable, and men of special note. By this means King Peter was restored, whose daughter and heir john of Gaunt third son of King Edward, and brother to the black Prince married, and in her right entitled and called himself King of Castille, Leon, and Arragon, which now is call●● Spain: of which matter the Chronicles make large report, and therefore needless to be repeated and new written: but to our purpose.  
Amongst these prisonors the Earl of Dene, being (as I said) the most remarkable and of chiefest note albeit he was challenged by sundry men, whereof some were of the Nobility: yet this just and wise Prince, who never used to suffer virtue and valour unrewarded, nor would not for either favour or fear do a mean and private soldier any wrong, adjudged the said Earl to be the lawful prisoner of two valiant Esquires, Soldiers and men of worth and reputation, named Robert Hall and john Shakerley, and thereof they obtained his Charter against all others that pretended claim or interest in him.  
The Earl not willing to go with them into England, made request to be ransomed, which was graunced unto him, and the sum agreed upon, which he affirmed he was not able presently to pay: For that those wars had so impoverished both himself, and his country, and people that all their money & goods were wasted and consumed: notwithstanding he would give unto them his eldest son and heir as a pledge, and hostage of the performance of such payment as he promised, and they were contented to accept of. So remained he still in Spain, and the youth who (as I can gather) was not then above 8. or nine years of age came with these two Esquires into England, and in short space he learned the ready pronouncing of the English tongue or language; and likewise prospered in all virtue and good qualities, that he was so well beloved of his said Gaurdians or masters, as if he had been their own child: He on the other part behaved himself hovestly, lovingly, and most kindly towards them, with such faith and fidelity in their manifold troubles, which for his cause they sustained as was most admirable, and hereafter shall be declared. His unkind Father neither regarding his promise, his oath, nor his bonds; nor having any care or fatherlike affection to his engaged son, never sent the ran some, nor any part thereof, but most unnaturally left him in their hands, at the will of his two masters, where I will leave him, and return to King Edward.  
The black Prince the comfort of his Father, and joy of England, shortly after this, departed this life, The good King his Father not able to sustain the burden of so great sorrow, lived not long after, but left the son of Prince Edward his Nephew to succeed him in his Kingdoms and Crowns, by the name of King Richard the second. In which space, King Peter of Spain was also slain by his brother, and the bastard Henry again, repossessed the Crown, and dignity.  
john of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, Earl of Derby, etc. after the death of King Peter, called himself▪ (in right of Beatrix his wife) King of Castille, Leon, & Arragon, and obtained licence of the King to transport an Army at his own proper charge into Spain for the recovery of his Kingdom. And for that purpose made great and long provision. And knowing well that the Earl of D●ane was in the hands of Hall, and Shakerley, solicited them to have him: but they utterly refused to part with him, without ready payment of the money for his ransom: whereupon he be sought the King to deal with them on his behalf. The king pretending that his purpose was to make a marriage between the said Earl: and his sister, a gallant Lady, and rich widow, late wife to Peter Cortney: But this devise, nor nothing else provailed to obtain the Duke's▪ purpose: so that they were both committed to the Tower of London, from whence (I know not by what means) they escaped: and after for their further safety, they betook themselves to the Sanctuary at Westminster, & enroled themselves and their goods in the protection and privilege of that place: which was at that time so strong and so reverend, as it was not thought that any man how cruel, or tyrannous so ever durst once infringe, violate, or break it.  
The Duke having stayed so long in making provision for his journey, that divers of his chiefest, Followers grew weary of their charges and expenses, and knowing that the matter of this Earl bred his discontent, and was a special let and hindrance to his further proceedings, determined to set aside all religion and conscience, and make hreach of the sanctuary, he wholly soever, and take from them their prisoner, or bring them back to the Tower: whereupon fifty or sixty chosen men were armed, and secretly placed to break into the abbey at service time and if no persuasions could prevail, then with violence to set upon them. The chiefest of these were Ralph de Ferres, the Lord Latimer, Alan Buxhull, and others, who at that time of Mass got into the Church, and by craft drew Shakerley forth of the liberties of the Sanctuary, by a postern, or small door, leading to the Ducens bridge through the old Pailace. But as for Hall when they saw they could not entreat nor persuade him, they began to bend their weapons toward him: but he having a short sword drew it, and valiantly defended their assaults, coursing about the Abbey, yet found no rescue, or help, but accompany of Monks and Priests, naked as it were, and unarmed, who cried to God for vengeance of this horrible sacriliedge. I have been showed a great notch which remains in a marble pillar. reported to be made with a blow which one of them struck at him, and yet missed him▪ Also the stones where he was first deadly wounded, retain yet (as is said) his blood, whether it be so or be the natural colour of the stone, let Philosophers dispute, he feeling himself so wounded, ra● up to the high Altar, where the 〈◊〉 Priests stood amazed at this deathful accident. Due of the Lay brethren a servant of the house, ●●●osing himself for rescue was slain, as also Hall himself. The murderers made away and fled.  
This being performed, and they nothing the nearer for their purpose of the Earl of Deane, it followed that the Church was suspended, the divine services ceased: the Choristers, Chorists, bells, and Organs became mute: the Church doors were dammed and 〈◊〉 up with thorns and bushes, at least sixty 〈◊〉 (as I have read) And the Authors and doers thereof cursed with Bell, Book, and Candle: for they were all well known, this was not only done in London, but in every Cathedral Church and parish Church throughout all England and Wales. This severe censure of the Church, this curse or ban was denounced: veyther did the Duke himself escape it, although he fain would have excused it, as neither knowing of it, nor consenting to it: but he prevailed not, and was also punished by this heavy curse. This continued for the space of certain weeks, in which time the King so wrought with the Duke, that he fell to composition with Shakerley: who for the some of five hundred marks of present money, and a hundred marks by the year, was contented to ●art with his prisoner. Also that the Duke at his own charges should build a Chantrey, and find five priests forever to sing for the soul of Robert Hall. The money being paid, and security put in for performance of the rest, the Church, the Bells and Church ornaments, were new hallowed, the services again restored: But that which was most to be admirev, was, that when the prisoner, or Earl was demanded, he delivered his Page, who they all knew in all his troubles had most faithfully served him and his companion. All sorts of people wondering at the great fidelity of this stranger, who albeit he well knew that he was sought for his preferment, that his Father was dead: yet detesting the unkindness of his father and friends, chose rather to be partaker of his master's troubles, than to falsify the faith, oath, and promise which he had made unto them. A most rare and memorable example.  
Hall lieth buried in the Abbey at Westminster, not far from Cha●sers Tomb, under a fair monument of a flat Marble stone, with his image of brass in his armour: and about the same certain verses in Latin, which (though much defaced with treading, and near worn out, may be found in a book called the Remains of a greater work. set forth by Mr. Camden, al. Clareceaulx King at Arms.  
The Duke of Lancaster with a great power went into Spain, where after sundry victories, and variable fortunes, a great sickness attached his people: by means whereof his success was not answerable to his expectation, nor the height of his mind, whereby he yielded to a composition with Henry the King, and received of him eight Chariots, laden with Gold and Silver: and a yearly tribute of a thousand Marks: with these conditions he departed out of Spain, and returned into England: died, and lieth buried in Paul's, with his wife and Daughter of King Peter, whose style and titles of Honour and Dignity, were written and set up by it, at the cost and charges of one master Robert Hare, late one of the Council to Queen Mary, and late Treasurer, and writer of the Exchequer Rolls.   
FINIS.