Commissary Court Wills: nos 255-284

Commissary Court Wills: nos 255-284

Wills for the parishioners of St Andrew Hubbard, London, enrolled in the Registers for the Commissary Court, from c.1450 to c.1570.

N.B. The first two wills, those of William and Juliana Fairhead, if slightly early, are included because of the importance of their endowment for the church; their wills, however, are reproduced here in somewhat abbreviated form.

255. (GLMS. 9171/4, ff.31–31v) WILLIAM FAIRHEAD. 23 July 1439.
[Latin]
1. I, William Fairhead, citizen and butcher of London, being in whole mind and sound memory, make and ordain my present testament and last will in the following fashion. First, I leave and recommend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, and to the blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, where I am a parishioner.
3. To the high altar of the same church for tithes forgotten and negligently withheld, 6s. 8d.
4. To the fabric of the body of the said church, 20s.
5. To the order of Friars Preacher in London, 6s. 8d.
6. To the order of ?Augustinian Friars in London, 6s. 8d.
7. To the order of Friars of the Holy Cross in London, 6s. 8d.
8. To my son, John, a silver cup and bowl worked with the image of St Mary, 6 silver spoons and my best girdle &c.
9. To [name indecipherable], my servant, 6s. 8d.
10. To Katherine James, 6s. 8d.
11. To Alice Mason, 26s. 8d.
12. To James Grace, 3s. 4d. and a robe.
13. To Margaret Fairhead, 3s. 4d.
14. To Juliana Swayn, 3s. 4d.
15. I leave 40s. to be faithfully distributed and disposed by my executors among the most needy poor which, according to their discretion, may seem best to please God and profit my soul.
16. I leave 10 marks sterling to find a fit and honest chaplain to celebrate divine service for my soul and the souls of my parents and all the faithful departed in the aforesaid parish church of St Andrew for a whole year following my death.
17. To Juliana, my wife, my whole state and term in a tenement situated in the parish of St Andrew aforesaid and belonging to the house of St Bartholomew, West Smithfield, London, to have and to hold for her life; after her decease, the tenement is to go to my son, John.
18. The residue of all my goods, after my debts and funeral expenses have been paid and my will completed, is to go to Juliana, my wife, who is to dispose of it for the good of my soul as she sees fit and as I would have done for her.
19. The said Juliana, John White turner, and John Bukby brewer I make my executors; and William Hawkyn, citizen and butcher of London, is to be my overseer. And to John White and John Bukby, 6s. 8d. apiece for their labour; and William Hawkyn, 6s. 8d.
20. To my son, John, brass vessels.
Proved 28 September 1439.

256. (GLMS. 9171/4, ff.108v-109v) JULIANA FAIRHEAD. 27 December 1442. [Latin]
1. I, Juliana Fairhead, widow of London and widow of William Fairhead, citizen and butcher, in sound mind and good memory, make my present testament and last will in the following manner. First, I commend my soul to God, my creator and saviour, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard where the body of William is inhumed.
3. I leave to divers ornaments and other necessaries within the said church, to the praise and glory of God, the Blessed Virgin and St Andrew, 10 marks according to the good discretion of my executors.
4. To find one fit and honest chaplain of good name, fame and honest conversation to celebrate every day in the church of St Andrew for my soul and the souls of all the faithful departed for 2 whole years after my decease, 20 marks sterling.
5. To the sustenance of the fraternity of St Katherine in the said church to pray for my soul, 3s. 4d.
6. To the sustenance of the fraternity of St Mary in St Leonard's Eastcheap, to pray for my soul, 3s. 4d.
7. To be distributed on the day of my death, 40s., that is, to each 1d.
8. A bequest of goods and 5 marks in money to Katherine James; to Thomas Coke, my servant, 6s. 8d.; to James Grace, sheets and 6s. 8d.; and to John Wells, my apprentice, 6s. 8d; to my servant, Alice Mason, according to her need, £10; to John Burd, 6s. 8d.; to John Englond, poor man, to pray for my soul, 6s. 8d.; to Agnes ap Rys, draperies.
9. To John Fairhead, son of my son John, 40s. and goods towards his marriage.
10. To my son, John, and his wife, Agnes, all my goods, household utensils and jewels and gold and silver.
11. To William Hawkyn, 40s.; to John White, 40s.; and to my son 26s. 8d.; and the residue of all my goods, after all debts have been settled and requisite payments made, is to go to these, my executors, to be distributed for my soul and the souls aforesaid in the celebration of Masses and distributions to the poor and in pious uses and charitable works as seems best to them to please God and profit my soul.
12. [She then defines 2 tenements with appurtenances in the parish of St Andrew Hubbard, between the tenement belonging to the chantry in St Margaret Bridge Street to the east, the tenement belonging to the prior and convent of St Bartholomew's, West Smithfield, to the west, the king's highway to the north, and the tenement belonging to the dean and chapter of St Paul's to the south, which 2 tenements the aforesaid William Fairhead had enfeoffed to John Hatfield and John White.] The which two tenements, to the praise and honour of God and the Blessed Virgin Mary and because of a special devotion to St Andrew the Apostle, I give and leave to Master William Povey, rector of St Andrew's, and to John Bukby, brewer, and Nicholas Gille, draper of London, wardens of the works, goods and rents of the church, and to their successor rectors and wardens for ever, on condition that the rectors and wardens and their successors find and sustain in perpetuity one fit chaplain, an honest man of good fame and conversation, who everyday in perpetuity is to celebrate in the said church of St Andrew Hubbard for the soul of William Fairhead, recently my husband, and my soul, and the soul of Isabel my daughter, and for the souls of our parents and all our benefactors and all the faithful departed.
13. And if they have sufficient from the 2 tenements, the rector and wardens of St Andrew Hubbard are to hold an anniversary for the said William Fairhead and me, Juliana, and Isabel our daughter, every year in perpetuity in the said church of St Andrew, to be held and celebrated with placebo and dirige by note on the eve and a Mass by note on the morrow following, and other offices to the honour of God, spending on the eve after the dirige 20d. in bread among the chaplains &c.; and the rector is to have 12d., or if he is absent a chaplain is to have 6d.; and each stipendiary chaplain attending, 4d.; and to the clerk for ringing the bells and other offices, 4d.; and to the wardens of St Andrew's for distributing [?bread] on the said anniversary among the poor of the parish so that they pray for my soul and the souls aforesaid, 2s. 6d.; and to the wardens for their own labour, 20d. Surplus revenues are to go to repair and sustain the tenements and are to be spent on the upkeep of the church and its ornaments according to the discretion of the wardens.
14. And my soul is to be specially recommended on Sundays by the rector or chaplain among the prayers of the parish.
15. In the event of St Andrew Hubbard's failure keep the anniversary, provision is made that the endowment should revert to the rector and churchwardens of St Leonard Eastcheap, to have a 4 year chantry there after which the property should be sold for as much as possible and the money devoted to pious uses and works of charity, including the repair and upkeep of poor churches, of roads and of bridges, admonishing the vendors that they should be prepared to answer for their conduct before God.
16. And I make, ordain and appoint the aforesaid William Hawkyn and John White as executors, and enjoin them to help and guide my son, John, so that all may be faithfully fulfilled.
Proved 22nd January 1443.

257. (GLMS. 9171/5, f.41v) CHRISTINE REYNWELL. 27 December 1451. [Latin]
1. I, Christine Reynwell alias Chacombe, formerly wife of Thomas Chacombe, citizen of London, in sane mind, make my testament in the following manner. First, I commend my soul to Almighty God.
2. And my body I leave to be buried.
3. I leave to the fabric of the mother church of London, 6d.
4. I leave to the fabric of the church of St Andrew Hubbard, 12d.
5. The true residue of all my goods, movable and immovable, I give and leave to Master Roger Boole, Thomas Frend alias Wyseman and Christine wife of the aforesaid Thomas, to be disposed for the good of my soul as seems best to them.
6. And the aforesaid Roger, Thomas and Christine I make and ordain my executors.
Given on the date and in the place aforesaid. Seal attached.
Witnesses: Master John Sawter parish chaplain of St Andrew Hubbard, Master John Tewkesbury, John Wytherley, Simon Whaplode and many others.
Proved 15 February 1452.

258. (GLMS. 9171/5, f.70) NICHOLAS GYLLE. 29 March 1452. [Latin]
1, I, Nicholas Gylle, citizen and pewterer of London, in whole mind and good and sound memory, make and ordain my testament in the following way. First, I give and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator and saviour, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2, My body is to be buried in the cemetery of the church of St Andrew in Eastcheap, London, among my children buried there.
3, To William Gylle, my son, my girdle embellished with black silk.
4, The true residue of all my goods, chattels and debts wheresoever they are, after my debts have been paid and my burial done and this will discharged, I give and leave whole to Katherine, my wife, that she should do as she wills but supporting Thomas and Isabella, my children, and distributing and dispensing for my soul in charitable works and works of pity as seems best to her to please God and profit my soul, as she would wish me to do for her. And I make and ordain the executors of this my will the same Katherine, my wife, and John Gylle, citizen and tailor of London, who are to see all the above faithfully performed.
Given day and year aforesaid.
[No record of probate.]

259. (GLMS. 9171/5, ff. 129–29v) NICHOLAS HONEY. 19 January 1454. [Latin]
1. I, Nicholas Honey, citizen and cordwainer of London, in whole and sound mind and good memory, give, make and ordain my present testament in the following way. First, I leave and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, and to the blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. And my body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, before the altar of St Katherine in the same church.
3. I leave to the high altar of the same church for my tithes forgotten and withdrawn in exoneration of my soul, 6s. 8d.
4. I leave to the use of the aforesaid church, for my burial there and for ringing the bells, 20s.
5. I leave for the use of the aforesaid altar of St Katherine a cloth of purple with birds of gold and silver, to pray for my soul.
6. I leave to sustain the light of Corpus Christi founded in the church of blessed Mary Matfelon outside Aldgate, London, to pray for my soul, 6s. 8d.
7. I leave to the sustenance of each fraternity in the church of St Botolph outside Aldgate, London, 6s. 8d.
8. I leave to John Thirkeston, chaplain, 1 decorated baslard.
9. I leave to Elizabeth Honey, my servant, in money and other things to the value of 5 marks sterling.
10. I leave to Agnes Fynchingfield, my siser, 40s.
11. I leave to John Chippe, my servant, 6s. 8d., 12 dozen candles and 1 robe of musterdevillers lined with fur.
12. I leave to Walter Harry, 6s. 8d.
13. I leave to William Martin, 6s. 8d.
14. I leave to both of my godsons, that is to say to Carter and Nicholas Tornour, 3s. 4d.
15. I leave to the sustenance of the fraternity of St Mary founded in the church of St Leonard in Eastcheap, London, to pray for my soul, 6s. 8d.
16. I leave towards the repair of the church of St Margaret Pattens, London, to pray for my soul, 6s. 8d.
17. I leave 93 dozen candles to be distributed in the following manner: to relieve the poor and infirm at Bethlehem outside Bishopsgate, 10 dozen; to the Charterhouse next to Smithfield, 12 dozen; to the poor priests of the house of St Augustine Pappey under the wall, London, 7 dozen; to the prisoners of Ludgate, 7 dozen; to the prisoners of Newgate, 6 dozen; to the prisoners of Fleet, 4 dozen; to the prisoners of King's Bench, 6 dozen; to the prisoners of the Marshalsea, 6 dozen; to the prisoners in the Bishop of Winchester's prison, Southwark, 2 dozen; to the poor men lying in the hospital of the Blessed Mary Rouncival near Westminster, 7 dozen; and to be distibuted to the poor on the day of my funeral, 20 dozen; and to Agnes Levet, 7 dozen and 6s. 8d.
18. I leave to Richard Lyndewyck, my servant, 6 dozen candles.
19. I leave to John Hayly, my servant, 6 dozen candles.
20. I leave to the wardens and other parishioners of the said church of St Andrew Hubbard one vestment to the value of 40s. in the same church in honour of Almighty God, the Blessed Mary, St Leonard and all the saints for as long as it will serve there.
21. To William Halhead, citizen and draper of London, one newly made untanned leather cup called a decorated horn cup. And the said William Halhead is to pay the said 40s. towards the aforesaid vestment.
22. I leave to Richard Sherde, citizen and leatherdresser of London, the excuse of his debt if he will do as I wish.
23. The true residue of all my goods, chattels, things and debts, after my debts have been paid, my funeral accomplished and my will fulfilled, I leave to my widow, Joan, who is to dispose of the goods she does not need, making distribution for my soul as she would wish me to do for her. And the aforesaid Joan I make and appoint my principal executrix, and the aforesaid Richard Sherde and John Stowe, citizen and chandler, I appoint co-executors; and the aforesaid Master William Halhead I appoint supervisor.
Seal attached. Given on the day and year aforesaid.
Proved 24 May 1454.

260. (GLMS. 9171/5, f. 227v-28) JOAN HONEY. 26 March 1457. [Latin]
1. I, Joan Honey, widow, recently wife of Nicholas Honey, while he lived a citizen and cordwainer of London, give, make and ordain my present testament in the following fashion. First, I leave and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, and to the Blessed Mary, Virgin, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard beside Eastcheap, London, that is to say next to the tomb where the body of the said Nicholas, recently my husband, lies interred.
3. I leave to the fabric of the body of the said church, 6s. 8d.
4. I leave to the altar of St Katherine in the said church, 1 wax torch, price 6s. 8d., to serve and burn for as long as it lasts.
5. I leave to the fabric of the cathedral of St Paul, London, 12d.
6. I will that my executors, underwritten, should find and sustain from my goods a fit and honest chaplain to celebrate divine service for my soul, the soul of the said Nicholas, the souls of all our benefactors and of all the faithful departed in the aforesaid church for 1 whole year after my decease, taking for his stipend for the said year, 10 marks.
7. I pardon and remit to John Knat, my brother, all the debts that he owes me, and I leave to the same John 6 dozen candles.
8. I leave to Thomas Wymerk, my brother, 6 dozen candles.
9. I leave to Dionisia Hill, my sister, 10 dozen of the same candles.
10. To John Stowe, citizen and chandler of London, 1 girdle of russet coloured silk with a silver belt.
11. I leave to the wife of Henry Pekeman my blood coloured robe edged with croppes.
12. I leave to Alice Hewet 1 robe of musterdevillers.
13. I leave to John Cheppe, my godson, a ?coverlet of green.
14. I leave to Elizabeth, daughter of Simon Tapicer, turner, a salt cellar and 1 pair of new ?sheets.
15. To John Carter, son of Thomas Carter, 1 silver powderbox.
16. To Alice Walkelyn of Kent my ?mazer.
17. To Agnes Pile, my servant, 2 pairs of sheets.
18. To Richard Lynwyk, my servant, a big bronze pan.
19. To Richard Ive, my [word indecipherable], 6s. 8d.
20. To Macione Lambert, my servant, 4 dozen candles.
21. The true residue of all my goods and chattels and debts, after my debts have been paid, my burial paid for and all the details of my will completed, I leave and give to my executors underwritten, to be disposed and distributed for my soul and the soul of Nicholas my late husband and the souls of all the faithful departed in works of charity according to their discretion in the manner best suited, as it seems to them, to please God, to save my soul and profit the souls aforesaid.
22. And I make and appoint Simon Tapicer and John Stowe, my executors, and William Halhed, draper, supervisor; and to each of these for their labour in carrying out this will, 20s.
Seal attached. Given the day and year abovesaid.
Proved 25 September 1457.

261. (GLMS. 9171/5, f. 150v) JOHN REYNOLD. 4 March 1455. [Latin]
1. I, John Reynold, citizen and brewer of London, being in sound mind and good memory, make and ordain this my present testament in the following fashion. First, I leave and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, to the Blessed Mary, Virgin, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the parish church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London.
3. To the high altar of the same church for my tithes forgotten or negligently withheld, 3s. 4d.
4. I leave to the fabric of the body of the said church, 6s. 8d.
5. I leave to the fabric of the body of the parish church of Bugby in the county of Northamptonshire, 6s. 8d.
6. I leave to the fabric of the body of the parish church of Ham in the county of Essex, 6s. 8d.
7. I leave to John Reynold, my brother, one robe.
8. I leave to Robert Gey, my servant, 6s. 8d.
9. I leave to my godson, the son of Simon Steynor, 20d.
10. The true residue of all my goods and chattels and debts after my debts have been paid, my funeral accomplished and my will completed, I give and leave whole to Joan, my wife, who is to do with it what she will.
11. I make Joan my executrix and William Halhead, draper, my executor; I appoint as supervisors John Chevell and John Gey, brewers, and to William Halhead and John Gey for their labour, 6s. 8d. apiece.
Given on the date and at the place abovesaid.
Proved 8 March 1454/5.

262. (GLMS., 9171/5, f. 275–75v) JOAN REYNOLD. 14 March 1459. [Latin]
1. I, Joan Reynold of London, widow, being in sound mind and good memory, give, make and ordain my present testament in the following fashion. First, I leave my soul to Almighty God, my creator and saviour, and to the blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, before the image of the Holy Trinity there where my husband's body lies buried.
3. To the high altar of the same church, 3s. 4d.
4. I leave to sustain the light of St Katherine there, 6s. 8d.
5. I leave to Emmot, my sister, garments [described in some detail].
6. I leave to the wife of ?Michael Fedell, my black girdle.
7. I leave to my kinsman, William Chibell, a horse and 6 pewter pieces.
8. I leave to Ellen, my servant, a pair of sheets, a blanket, a bronze oil, pewter vessels and a girdle.
9. I leave to Alice, my servant, a pair of sheets, a blanket, a bronze oil and pewter vessels.
10. I give and leave for holding and performing an anniversary in the said church of St Andrew Hubbard for the said John Reynold and me, for the 12 years next following my decease, the sum of 3s. 4d. to be spent each year.
11. I give and excuse John Sewell of 3s. 4d. on condition that he pays or ensures payment of 6s. 8d. to my executors below written, and then my executors are to deliver to the aforesaid John 1 silver cup called a flat pece and 10s.
12. I leave to the fabric of the church of Langford in the county of Bedfordshire whence I come, 6s. 8d.
13. I leave to the fabric of the bell tower of the aforesaid church of St Andrew, if the aforesaid parish rebuilds it, 40s.
14. I will, if my goods extend to it after my debts have been settled and my legacies completed, that my executors should according to their discretion find a fit chaplain to celebrate divine service in the said church of St Andrew for a whole year for the soul of John Reynold lately my husband and for my soul and the souls of all the faithful departed.
15. The residue of all my goods and chattels and debts wherever they are I leave to my executors who are to order, make and distribute [this] for my soul and the souls of my parents and all the faithful departed in works of charity as seems best to them, in the hope of pleasing God and profiting my soul.
16. As my executors I appoint John Barry, gentleman, Walter Turner of Barnet in Hertfordshire and John Chibell, senior, yeoman of Langford, and I exhort each to fidelity, and give to each of them for their labour 1 black robe and 6s. 8d.
Witnessed by William Halhed, Simon Turner, Joan Wetherley, William Granger, Simon Whaplode and many others. Given the day and year aforesaid.
Proved 13 June 1459.

263. (GLMS. 9171/5, f. 188–88v) WILLIAM ASHCOMBE. 12 May 1456. [Latin]
1. I, William Ashcombe, citizen and turner of London, being of sound mind and in good memory, give, make and order my testament in the following way. First, I leave and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the parish church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London.
3. I leave to the high altar of the said church for my tithes and oblations forgotten or negligently withheld, 6s. 8d.
4. I leave to the fabric of the body of the said church, 6s. 8d.
5. I leave to the use of the fraternity of St Katherine in the said church of St Andrew 1 torch worth 6s. 8d.
6. I leave to William, my son, 20s. sterling to be delivered to him when he reaches the age of 21 or when he marries; and to my son, John, 20s. on the same condition. If either of my 2 children die before they reach the said age, or before they marry, then his share is to remain to the survivor; if they both die the said money is to remain to my wife, Alice.
7. I leave to Amice, my mother, 6s. 8d.
8. That I, William Ashcombe, already holding for a term of years of the Prior and Convent of St Bartholomew, West Smithfield, London, 2 tenements situated in the parish of St Leonard Eastcheap, will that my mother, the said Amice, should have one half part of the profits of the tenements, but that out of this she should contribute towards making necessary repairs. Alice, my wife, is to have the other half of the profits.
9. That I should have a chaplain, a fit and honest man, who is to celebrate divine service for my soul and the soul of all the faithful departed at the altar of St Katherine in the said church of St Andrew for one whole year following after my death.
10. I will that Joan Nicholl, my servant, is to have 40s. towards her marriage if the said Joan will be advised in her marriage by my wife, Alice.
11. To Thomas Hamelyn, my apprentice, 3s. 4d.
12. To each of my godsons and god-daughters. 4d.
13. To be distributed among the poor, 3s. 4d., that is to each pauper ½d.
14. The residue of all my goods and chattels after my debts have been paid, my body interred and my testament completely fulfilled, I give and leave to Alice, my wife, and she is to make, ordain and dispose of this according to her own free will.
15. I make and ordain as my executors of this testament Alice, my wife, and Simon Tapicer, turner, and John Stowe, tallowchandler. The said Simon and John are each to have 10s. for their labour.
Seal attached. Given day and year aforesaid.
Proved 27 May 1456.

264. (GLMS. 9171/5, ff.223–23v) ELIZABETH WAVERYN. 3 August 1457. [Latin]
1. I, Elizabeth Waveryn, of London, widow, being in sound mind and good memory, make, ordain and give this my present testament in the following manner. First, I leave and commend my soul to Almighty God, my creator and saviour, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried wherever Almighty God of his great mercy shall place and ordain me by his will.
3. To the high altar of the parish church of St Andrew by Eastcheap, London, for my tithes forgotten or negligently withheld, 2s. in exoneration of my soul.
4. The true residue of all and singular of my goods, chattels and debts after my debts have been paid, my body buried and my will implemented, I leave to Simon Ridby, citizen and vintner of London, who is to do and ordain and dispose of this of his own free will and brooking no contradiction as if they were his own.
5. I appoint Simon Ridby my executor, and he is to carry out this will fully and faithfully.
Given in London, the day and year aforesaid.
Proved 8 August 1457.

265. (GLMS. 9171/5, f.284) RICHARD HANCOK. 25 August 1459.
1. I Richard Hancok, citizen and grocer of London, being whole of mind and in good memory although I be sick in body, make and ordain and dispose of this my present testament in the manner that follows. First, I recommend my soul to Almighty God, my maker and my saviour, and to Our Lady Saint Mary, His blessed mother, and to all the holy company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried in the east end of the church-hawe of St Andrew Hubbard, London.
3. Also I bequeath to the high altar of the same church for my tithes and offerings forgotten and withdrawn in discharge of my soul, 6d.
4. Also I will that there be ordained to have burning about my body on the day of my burial and at the morrow after 4 torches and 4 tapers of wax, and 2 of the same tapers are to be 24 lb in weight and the other 2, 16 lb; and after the said service is done, I bequeath 2 of the said torches, one to the aforesaid high altar to serve at the levation of Our Lord's body for as long as it will endure, and the other to serve in the same wise at the altar of St Katherine in the same church.
5. Also I bequeath to John Wells, chandler, 3s. 4d. to be my executor.
6. The residue of all my goods, debts and chattels wheresoever they be after my debts have been paid and my burying made and this my present testament fulfilled, I give and bequeath to Agnes, my wife, to make and dispose thereof as of her own proper goods, debts and chattels, and to do for my soul as she would I did for her in like case; which Agnes I make and ordain my principal executor, with the aforesaid John Wells as her co-executor; and I charge them to fulfil and execute all and everything contained in this my present testament. In witness of which thing to this my present testament I have put my seal.
Proved 20 September 1459.

266. (GLMS. 9171/5, f.290) JOHN WYDERLEY. 19 December 1459. [Latin]
1. I, John Wyderley, citizen and draper of London, being in whole mind and good memory, make, give and ordain my testament in the following manner. First, I leave and commend my soul to God Almighty and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the cemetery of the church fo St Andrew the Apostle next to Eastcheap.
3. To the high altar of the said church for my tithes forgotten, 4s.
4. To my son, John Wyderley, 1 brass pot and 1 basin of latten and 2 pairs of sheets.
5. To William Wyderley, my son, 1 brass pot and 1 basin of latten and 2 pairs of sheets.
6. To Alice Wyderley, my wife, all my other goods not bequeathed.
7. And I make and ordain the said Alice, my wife, my executrix, and my said son, John, my executor, and they are to dispose for me as I would for them.
Seal attached. Given the day and year aforesaid.
Proved 8 January 1460.

267. (GLMS. 9171/5, f.301) JOHN MARTYN. 17 October 1460. [Latin]
1. I, John Martyn, citizen and pewterer of London, being in whole mind and good memory, make and dispose of this my present testament in the following manner. First, I give and recommend my soul to Almighty God, my creator and saviour, and to Mary, Virgin, His glorious mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the cemetery of the church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, in the place next to that place where the body of my late wife lies buried.
3. I leave to the high altar of the said church for my tithes forgotten or negligently withheld, thus to exonerate my soul, 3s. 4d.
4. I leave to the parish chaplain of the said church, 20d.
5. I leave to the use of the fabric and works of the said church of St Andrew, 40s. for whatever work is most necessary, so that my soul and the souls of my father and mother and my wife shall be specially recommended in the prayers of the parishioners.
6. I leave to the use of the church of ?Hynton in the county of Kent where I come from, 40s. to be spent on what is most necessary in the same church so that my soul and the souls of my said father and mother shall be specially recommended in the prayers of the parishioners there.
7. I leave to each of the 4 priests and 2 clerks attending the exequies and Mass for my soul in the said church of St Andrew where I am a parishioner, 4d.
8. I leave to each of the 4 poor men holding candles at these exequies and the Mass, 4d. for their labour.
9. I leave to Robert Tyll, tailor, 3s. 4d. to pray for my soul.
10. I leave to Richard Ramsey, pewterer, 20d. to pray for my soul.
11. I leave to Agnes White, sister of my said wife, 3s. 4d. to pray for my soul.
12. I leave to both my executors underwritten, to help them in the execution of this will, faithfully doing and disposing of my will and estate, 40s. for their labour in this point.
13. The residue of all and singular of my goods and debts wheresoever they are due, after my debts have been settled, my funeral paid for and my present wishes accomplished, I will and ordain should be disposed and distributed by my executors for my soul and the other souls aforesaid in pious alms and uses and works of pity and charity, according to their good discretion as they might wish to answer for them before the court of the highest judge.
14. I make and ordain John Whytehede, pewterer, and John Wykeham, grocer and citizen of London, my faithful executors.
Given at the time and place aforesaid.
Witnessed by John Walker woodmonger and Richard Hinton scribe, citizens of London.
Proved 27 October 1460.

268. (GLMS. 9171/6, f.75v) WILLIAM HALHEDE. 9 February 1471. [Latin]
1. I, William Halhede, citizen and draper of London, being in whole mind and good, sound memory, do make and ordain this my present last will and testament in the following manner. First, I leave and recommend my soul to Almighty God, my creator and saviour, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, according to the discretion of my executors underwritten.
3. To the high altar of the same church for my tithes and offerings forgotten and negligently withheld in exoneration of my soul, 6s. 8d.
4. To the fabric of the said church, 6s. 8d.
5. And to the said church 1 torch from the torches ordered and used at my funeral.
6. To sustain the light of Holy Trinity in the said church, 20d.
7. To sustain the light of St Katherine in the same church, 20d.
8. I leave and will that each poor householder within the parish of St Andrew Hubbard should have of my goods 4d. to pray for my soul.
9. I will to those 12 poor men carrying 8 torches and 4 candles at my exequies on my month's mind, that is to each of them 4d. to pray for my soul.
10. I leave to be distributed on the funeral expenses done for me on the same day at my month's mind and at my exequies, 20 marks according to the discretion of my executors or supervisor written below.
11. From my goods 5 marks should go towards finding a fit chaplain and an honest man in habit and conversation to celebrate divine service daily in the said church of St Andrew for half a year following my death, for my soul and the souls to whom I am bound and all the faithful departed.
12. I leave to John Halhede, my son, his part of all my goods, 10 marks and a silver cup. To Thomas Halhede, my son, his part of all my goods, 10 marks and a silver cup. To Robert Halhede, my son, his part from all my goods, 10 marks and a silver cup. If any of them should die before reaching the age of legitimacy, then their part is to go to the remaining, being equally divided if 2 remain, or if 2 die going all to the survivor. If all should die, my executors are to dispose of the goods for the good of my soul and the souls of my said children in charitable works as seems best in the hope of pleasing God and most profiting the said souls. The custody and guardianship of my said sons I entrust to Margaret, my wife, under the supervision of the Court of Guildhall in London and to this end I invoke the duties of this court to orphans.
13. To my brother, John, 6s. 8d. and sufficient cloth for a robe.
14. To William Epe, my servant, 6s. 8d.
15. To Michael Harrys, draper, and Simon Tapicer, turner, to each 20s. and a whole cloth for a robe to supervise the execution of my will.
16. The true residue of my goods, jewels and debts, wherever they may be after my debts have been paid, my funeral paid and my will carried out, I leave to Margaret, my wife, who is to dispose of it according to her free and spontaneous will as she would I should so do for her.
17. And the said Margaret is to be my principal and sole executor; and the aforesaid Michael Harrys and Simon Tapicer the supervisors.
18. I leave to the tabernacle of St Andrew in the aforesaid church, 6s. 8d. Seal attached. Given the day and year aforesaid.
Proved 18 April 1471.

269. (GLMS. 9171/6, f.84) RICHARD BAFFORD. 19 April 1471. [Latin]
1. I, Richard Bafford, citizen and draper of London, being in sound mind and good memory, make and order my will in the following way. First, I leave and recommend my soul to Almighty God, my creator, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the parish church of St Andrew Hubbard, London.
3. To the high altar of the said church for my tithes and offerings forgotten or negligently withheld, 12d.
4. To the image of the aforesaid St Andrew, 20d.
5. The true residue of all my goods and chattels and debts after my debts have been paid, my burial done and my testament completely fulfilled, I give and leave to Ellen, my wife, who is to do, ordain and dispose of it for my soul just as she would wish I would do for her.
6. The which Ellen I make and ordain my executrix; and as supervisors I make and ordain Sir William Comyn, rector of the church of St Andrew, and Nicholas Okerford. To each of these for their labour, 10s.
Seal attached. Given day and year abovesaid.
Proved 26 April 1471.

270. (GLMS. 9171/6, ff.169v-170) RICHARD KYNG. 30 November 1474.
1. I, Richard Kyng, citizen and brewer of London, being in good mind and good memory, make and ordain this my present testament in the manner and form following. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker, to Our Blessed Lady, St Mary, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the parish church of St Andrew Hubbard next to Eastcheap, London, where I am parishioner.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the same church, 20d. for my offerings negligently forgotten or withdrawn in discharge of my soul.
4. I bequeath to the said church of St Andrew, 2 torches, the price of either torch 5s., there to serve and burn at the levation of the blessed sacrament at the high altar of the same church as long as they may endure.
5. I bequeath to William Smith, my apprentice, 40s. to be delivered to him at the end of his apprenticeship so that he, the same William, well and truly serves Joan, my wife, all the terms of his apprenticeship which were to come to me.
6. I bequeath to Thomas Smith, my apprentice, 20s. to be delivered to him at the end of his apprenticeship so that the same Thomas well and truly serves the same Joan all the terms of his apprenticeship which were to come.
7. The residue of my goods, movable and immovable, whatsoever they be after my debts have been paid, I wholly give and bequeath to Joan, my wife; she is to do and dispose of them according to her own free will for evermore.
8. The which Joan I make and ordain my executrix; and her overseer I make and ordain Nicholas Okerford, citizen and vintner of London, and to the same Nicholas for his labour, 6s. 8d.
Proved 16 December 1474.

271. (GLMS. 9171/6, f.191) HELEN GOODRYKE. 10 June 1476. [The language in the original is of particular interest as a hybrid of legalistic Latin and everyday English].
1. I, Elena Goodryke, widow, of whole mind and sane memory give my testament in the following manner. First, I leave my soul to Almighty God, my creator, and to the Blessed Mary and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the cemetery of St Magnus, London, where my man lies.
3. To the high altar of St Andrew Hubbard, London, one tablecloth of diaper and one towel of diaper to lie upon the high altar in the said church for altar cloths.
4. I leave to the fraternity of St Mary in the church of St Magnus, London, 1 towel of diaper.
5. To Margery, my daughter, 2 featherbeds, 2 bolsters, 1 mattress, 2 coverlets – one white and the other red, 1 celure that hangs on my bed, 2 pairs of sheets, 2 pillows, half a garnish of pewter vessels, 2 of my best candlesticks, a basin and a ewer of latten, a chafing dish of latten, and a brass pot and a brass pan, 8 spoons of silver and a mazer, 6 cushions, a plain towel and a plain bordcloth.
6. I leave to Lettice, recently my servant, a white coverlet and a pair of sheets.
7. I leave to Alano, recently my servant, 1 mattress, 1 dagswain, and 3 sheets.
8. I leave to Agnes, recently my servant, 1 russet gown, a black kirtle and a sheet.
9. I leave to John Lewis a pair of sheets.
10. I leave to Joan, wife of John Taylor, a blue gown and a red kirtle.
11. I leave to Christine Gynke, recently my servant, a pair of sheets.
12. I leave to Margaret Stevenson a pair of black jet beads gauded with silver.
13. The true residue of my goods after my debts have been paid I leave to Philip Stevenson, whom I make and appoint my executor.
Witnessed by Richard Rogge parish chaplain of the said church of St Andrew Hubbard aforesaid, and Nicholas Maynard citizen and skinner.
Given day and year aforesaid.
Proved 17 June 1476.

272. (GLMS. 9171/6, ff.240v-241) JOHN MAUDE. 9 February 1477.
1. I, John Maude, citizen and bowyer of London, being in my good and whole mind, make, ordain and dispose this my present testament in the following form. First, I give and bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker and saviour, and to Our Blessed Lady, His mother, and all the saints in heaven.
2. And my body is to be buried in the parish church of St Andrew Hubbard, London, in such place where as it seems most expedient as well by the discretion of my executors as by the discretion of the parson and wardens of the same church.
3. I give and bequeath to the high altar of the same church to the honour and worship of the blessed sacrament, 6s. 8d.
4. I bequeath to the church works of the same church to pray for my soul and of all Christian souls, £6 sterling.
5. I will that my executors, below written, find an honest priest of good name and fame in the aforesaid parish church to sing and pray for my soul, the souls of my father and mother and all Christian souls by the space of 5 years next after my decease, the same priest having for his salary and wages during the same time 50 marks, that is to wit 10 marks every year, and that the same priest at every Mass during the same time after the levation shall say De profundis for my soul, the souls of my said father and mother and all Christian souls.
6. I give and bequeath 100 marks to be given and dealt among poor people where as it shall seem best by the discretion of my executors.
7. I bequeath to John, my son, £40. I bequeath to William, my son, £20.
8. I bequeath to Katherine, my daughter, £20. I bequeath to Walter Constantyne, her husband, to pay and content his debts, £20.
9. I bequeath to Reynold Wyet, 40s. I bequeath to John Wyet, 40s.
10. I bequeath to the fellowship of the craft of bowyers, 40s.
11. I bequeath to Thomas Maude, the son of John Maude my son, 40s.; I bequeath to John Maude, the son of John Maude my son, 40s.
12. I bequeath to either of the children of the said Walter Constantyne, 40s.
13. I bequeath to Jankyn Cokkys, my brother, and to his wife, and to Thomas Cowper and my sister, his wife, to wit to either of them a gown cloth worth 10s. and 20s. in money, to be disposed for my soul where by their discretion it seems best.
14. I bequeath to Margery Kateryne, my cousin, 13s. 4d.
15. I bequeath to the wife late of Thomas Glover, my dame and to her children, to wit a son and a daughter, 20s. to be paid and delivered of the 100 marks before bequeathed.
16. I bequeath to my brother Cokke, 25s. under this condition following: that the same my brother shall keep and find an obit in the parish church of ?Colcell in Arden [Archerne] in the county of Warwickshire during the space of 5 years next after my decease for my soul and the souls of my father and mother and all Christian souls.
17. The residue of all my goods, movable and immovable, after my debts have been paid, the costs of my burial met and this my present testament in all things wholly fulfilled, I give and bequeath to Joan, my wife, therewith to do and dispose for my soul in charitable deeds as she would I did for her in like case.
18. The which Joan, my wife, I make my principal executrix; and I make Thomas Marschburgh and Robert Barker, citizens and bowyers of London, her co-executors; and to each of them for their labour, 40s.
In witness whereof I have set my seal to this my present testament. Given the day and year abovesaid.
Proved by William Wylde Commissary [no precise date].

273. (GLMS. 9171/6, ff.231v-32) SIMON TAPYCER. 24 July 1478.
1. I, Simon Tapycer, the elder, citizen and turner of London, being in good mind and good memory, make and ordain this my present testament containing my last will in the manner and form as follows. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker, to Our Blessed Lady, His mother, and to all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the chapel of Our Lady in the church of St Andrew Hubbard beside Eastcheap, London, where the body of Margaret my late wife lies buried.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the church of St Andrew for my offerings negligently withdrawn in discharge of my soul, 5s.
4. I bequeath to the house of Whitefriars, London, whereof I am a brother, 6s. 8d.
5. I bequeath to Thomas Eston, my brother's son, 13s. 4d., a broad axe and a hatchet, 3 augers and a bent saw and a pair of sheets.
6. I bequeath to Margaret Croke, my servant, 3 yards of woollen cloth for a gown, price 3s. the yard, a yard of green for an ?huke at 3s. the yard, a pair of good sheets, a smock, and 13s. 4d. in money.
7. I bequeath to Simon Tapycer, my son, 53s. 4d. in money, my best girdle harnessed with silver, 1 coverlet of tapestry work with a lion under a tree in the same, 2 pairs of sheets, a pair of blankets, 1 featherbed with a bolster lying in the ?eastern chamber, 2 pillows, half a dozen pewter vessels, 1 basin, 1 pot and 1 pan of brass, 1 goblet of silver, 1 flat pece of silver, 1 mazer with a band of silver overgilt with the image of St Andrew in the bottom, half a dozen silver spoons, a mazer and a salt cellar of silver, a [word indecipherable] which is daily occupied.
8. I bequeath to Thomas Tapycer, my son, 40s. in money [and household goods including 6 silver spoons, a mazer, a russet gown, a featherbed with a bolster in the maiden chamber, 2 pairs of sheets].
9. I bequeath to Nicholas, my son, £4 in money [and household goods including 6 spoons of silver, a standing mazer, a flat pece of silver, a little mazer, a salt cellar, a featherbed with bolster and coverlet of tapestry work in my best chamber, and 2 pairs of sheets].
10. I bequeath to Joan, wife of my son Simon Tapycer, 13s. 4d.
11. I bequeath to Joan, wife of my son Thomas, a woman's gown of furred musterdevillers.
12. I bequeath to Anne, daughter of my son Thomas, 40s. and a set of amber beads.
13. I forgive and release to Roger Dre, my apprentice, a year of his service.
14. I forgive and release to Thomas Baker, my apprentice, a year of his service.
15. The residue of all my goods, movable and immovable wheresoever they be, after my debts have been paid and my legacies fulfilled, I bequeath to Simon Tapycer and Thomas Tapycer to be equally divided among them without any strife or dispute, and they are to do therewith of their own free wills.
16. Simon and Nicholas, my sons, and Thomas Wylkok, citizen and carpenter of London, I make and ordain executors of this my testament, and to Thomas Wylkok 6s. 8d. for the labour to be done.
In witness whereof I have set my seal, the day and year aforesaid. Proved 30 July 1478.

274. (GLMS. 9171/8, f.103v) THOMAS HAMLYN. 4 October 1485.
1. I, Thomas Hamlyn, citizen and turner of London, being whole of mind and of good memory, make and ordain this my testament in this wise. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, to Our Lady Saint Mary the Virgin and to all the holy company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried where as God shall dispose for it.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the church of St Andrew Hubbard for my tithes and oblations forgotten, 6s. 8d.
4. I bequeath to the repairs of the said church, 20s.
5. I bequeath to Margaret, my daughter, 40s., a mazer and 4 spoons when she marries. Also I bequeath to Alice, my daughter, 40s., a mazer and 4 spoons; and I bequeath to Joan, my daughter, 40s., a mazer and 4 spoons when they come to their marriages. If any of my said daughters should die unmarried, then her portion is to be divided among the other 2 living; if 2 die, then the 2 parts of them so dead are to remain to the third; if 3, then I will that all 3 parts remain to Joan my wife.
6. The residue of all my goods and chattels, movable and immovable, after my debts have been paid and my will fulfilled, I give and bequeath to Joan my wife and she is to dispose of it as seems best to her.
7. The which Joan I make my executrix.
In witness whereof I have set my seal, the day and year abovesaid.
Proved in the month of December 1485 [day not given].

275. (GLMS. 9171/7, f.59) ROBERT WESTELWODE. 23 November 1486.
1. I, Robert Westelwode, citizen and blacksmith of London, being whole of mind and good memory, make and ordain this my testament and last will in this wise. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker, to Our Lady Saint Mary with all the company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried in the churchyard of St Andrew Hubbard in the Eastcheap where I am parishioner, as near the cross as I may.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the said church for my tithes and oblations forgotten and negligently withheld, 20d.
4. I bequeath to John Wystwode, my son, 2 mazers with bands of silver and gilt weighing 15½oz, and a flat pece of silver and 6 spoons of silver, the pece and the spoons together weighing 14¼oz at 3s. 4d. the ounce, sum 47s. 6d., and the mazers at 3s. the ounce, sum 46s. 6d. The sum of the mazers, spoons and pece [comes to] £4 14s. And I bequeath to my son 39s. 4d. in money to make up the sum of 10 marks, the which plate and money will yet remain in the hands of John Holwey the younger, cordwainer, who is to keep the same until my son comes to the full age of 21 years. And John Holwey is to have the keeping of my son until he is able to be set to some craft; and his schooling should be found. If my son dies before he reaches the age of 21, then 5 marks thereof is to go to finding a priest to sing for my soul and his in the parish aforesaid for the space of half a year; and the other 5 marks is to return to Katherine, my wife.
5. I bequeath to my brother, Thomas Westwode, 40s. in money; and after my decease I will that my said brother should have my years in the house in which I now dwell, but my wife is to have free entry by the shop to all the house above for the duration of a whole year, and she is to pay half the rent of the said house for that duration.
6. The residue of all my goods, movable and immovable, my debts paid and my will fulfilled, I give to Katherine, my wife, and she is to dispose of them as she sees fit.
7. The same Katherine, my wife, I make my executrix; and John Holwey the younger is to be my overseer, and he is to have my best hood for his labour and a pair of sleeves of grayle.
Witnessed by Sir John Baker parish priest of St Andrew Hubbard, John Holwey the younger, John Redeknap, Nicholas Tapycer and Thomas Westwode.
Written the day and year above rehearsed.
Proved 9 December 1486.

276. (GLMS. 9171/7, ff.106v–107) DAVID WESTBERY. 2 January 1487.
1. I, David Westbery, citizen and woodmonger of London, being in whole mind and good memory, make and ordain this my present testament in this wise. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker, to the blessed mother, Our Lady Saint Mary, and to all the company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard as near to my wife as I may.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the said church for my tithes and oblations forgotten or negligently withheld in discharging my soul, 2s.
4. I bequeath to the works of the body of the said church for my knell and for the ground, 20s.
5. I will that at my burying my executor purvey for 6 torches, 4 of them to be bought outright and the other 2 to be hired, of which 4 I bequeath 2 of them to the use of the said church, there to burn at all sacraments ministered, and the other 2 to be delivered to the brotherhood of the Trinity, Our Lady and St Katherine to ?bury the bretheren and sisters of the said fraternity without any of them therefore to be taken.
6. Also I will that there be found in the said church an able priest to sing at all divine service, [and] he is to pray for my soul, my wife's soul, with all other good friends' souls by the space of 3 years next ensuing after my decease, and that he shall have yearly without any interruption 10 marks.
7. I bequeath to my sister Margaret 2 yards of ?brown violet at 3s. 4d. the yard; 2½ yards of black at 3s. 4d. the yard to make a cloak; and also 20s. in money.
8. I bequeath to her son, David, 20s.
9. I bequeath to Walter, my other sister's son, 20s. and my sword.
10. I bequeath to John Merys, my cousin, 20s.
11. I will that there be said for my soul, my wife's and my children's souls, 3 trentals, one to be said in the aforesaid church of St Andrew, another in the Grey Friars and the third at the Augustinian Friars, and that every place shall have there for 10s.
12. I bequeath to Ralph Clerk, tailor, a gown of green ready dressed, and 20s. in money.
13. I bequeath to Avice, his wife, 3 yards of green cloth to make her a gown.
14. I bequeath to John Burton, my godson, 6s. 8d.
15. I bequeath to Andrew Gresshop a ray gown violet coloured on the plain side.
16. I bequeath to William Casson, 3s. 4d.; and to his wife, 3s. 4d.
17. I bequeath to Margery Phelip, Chapman's daughter-in-law, a platter, a dish, a saucer, a candlestick and 40d. in money.
18. I bequeath to Joan Matthew, my cousin's wife, a kirtle of red lined with white.
19. I bequeath to John Jones, my cousin, 6s. 8d.
20. The residue of my goods, my debts having been paid, my will fulfilled and my burial paid for, I remit to the discretion of my executors and they are to dispose of it as to them shall seem best for the health of my soul.
21. I appoint as my executors Sir Richard Clyff, parson of St George's in Botolph Lane, and Ralph Clerk, tailor; and the said Sir Richard is to have 20s. for his labour.
Witnessed by William Casson and Dennis Burton tailors, and John Redknape mercer.
Written the day and year aforesaid.
Proved ?22 January 1487.

277. (GLMS. 9171/7, ff.116v-17) JOHN HARPHAM. 8 April 1488.
1. I, John Harpham, citizen and tailor of London, being in my good and whole mind, make and ordain this my present testament in this wise. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker and saviour, Our Lady Saint Mary and all the saints.
2. My body is to be buried in the church of St Andrew Hubbard near Eastcheap, London, to wit in the place or near the same where the body of Margaret, late my wife, lies buried.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the same church for my tithes and offerings forgotten or negligently withheld in discharge of my soul, 3s. 4d.
4. I bequeath to Robert, my son, a featherbed with the bolster and the other necessaries belonging to my bed, and 2 pairs of sheets and my best linen gown.
5. I bequeath to John Barett, my cousin dwelling in St Tolos in the county of Norfolk, £4 in ready money or in other movable goods of mine to the same value.
6. I bequeath £4 in money to be dealt and disposed in charity and almsdeeds to poor people as my executors by their discretion think most profitable for my soul and for the soul of Margaret, my wife.
7. I will that my executors sustain and find an honest priest to sing and pray for my soul and the soul of my wife, my friends' souls and all Christian souls in the said church of St Andrew for a year and a half after my decease.
8. I bequeath towards buying a chasuble for the best vestment in the said church of St Andrew, 40s.
9. The residue of all my goods, chattels and debts after my debts have been paid, my burial done and my will fulfilled, I give and bequeath to my executors who are to ordain and dispose of it for my soul and my wife's soul and all Christian souls in charitable deeds as to their discretion seems best to them.
10. I appoint as my executors William Peckyn, Simon Tapicer and Thomas Hamelyn, citizens and turners of London.
In witness whereof I have set my seal, the day and year abovesaid.
Proved 11 April 1488.

278. (GLMS. 9171/8, f.45) THOMAS LEDER. 14 April 1492.
1. I, Thomas Leder, citizen and fishmonger of London, being in whole mind and good memory, make and ordain this my present testament containing my last will in the manner and form as follows. First and principally, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker and redeemer.
2. My body is to be buried within the church of St Andrew Hubbard, London.
3. I bequeath to the high altar of the said church for my tithes and oblations negligently withheld or forgotten, 20d.
4. I give and bequeath to the fraternity of the Holy Trinity, Our Lady and Saint Katherine within the said church, 12d.
5. I give and bequeath to the fraternity of Our Lady in the church of St Bride, Fleet Street, within the suburbs of London, 12d.
6. I give and bequeath to Henry Gesyngham my jacket of camlet lined with cranbroke kemall.
7. I give and bequeath to Peter, my son, my great mazer, or 50s. there for.
8. The residue of all my goods, my debts paid and this my present testament fulfilled, I give wholly to Elizabeth, my wife, to do therewith according to her free will.
9. And of this my present testament and last will I make and ordain the said Elizabeth and John Sheffeld, notary, my executors.
Proved 17 December 1492.

279. (GLMS. 9171/8, f.33v) JOHN TURFOOT. 20 April 1492. [Latin]
1. I, John Turfoot, of whole mind and sound memory, make my will in the following manner. First, I commend my soul to Almighty God.
2. My body is to be buried in the consecrated cemetery of the church of St Andrew Hubbard.
3. I give and leave to the high altar of the said church for tithes and oblations forgotten or negligently withheld, 12d.
4. To the guild of the Blessed Mary and St Katherine in the said church, 8d.
5. I give and leave 10s. for one fit priest ?chosen by my curate to celebrate one trental of Masses in the aforesaid church immediately after my decease for the health of my soul.
6. The remainder of my goods unbequeathed I give and leave to Elizabeth, my wife, for as long as she lives sole and unmarried; and after her death I will that the said unbequeathed goods are to remain to my sister, Barbara.
7. I make, ordain and confirm the aforesaid Elizabeth, my wife, with Garrad Wickerson as my true executors.
Witnessed by Master Henry my curate, Michael Everard, Augustine Danyell and others.
Given the day, month and year aforesaid.
Proved 2 May 1492.

280. (GLMS. 9171/8, f.99v) WILLIAM CASSON. 31 January 1494.
1. I, William Casson, of the parish of St Andrew in Eastcheap, citizen and tailor of London, whole of mind and good of memory, laud and praise be to Almighty God, my maker and redeemer, make, ordain and declare my testament and last will in the manner and form following. First, I give and bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker and redeemer.
2. My body is to be buried in the church or churchyard of the parish church where it shall please my aforesaid Lord God for me to leave my life in.
3. Also I bequeath to the high altar of St Andrew aforesaid where I am now a parishioner for my tithes and oblations negligently by me forgotten and withdrawn, 12d.
4. I give and bequeath to my son, John Casson, £3 6s. 8d. in money; I give and bequeath to my younger son, Peter Casson, £3 6s. 8d. in money. Also I will that these aforesaid sums are to be delivered to either of my sons when they come to the lawful age of discretion; if one dies and the other survives to come to the lawful age of discretion, he that lives longer shall have his brother's part; if it so happens that both decease out of this life, then the sum of 10 marks by me so to them bequeathed should be given to an honest priest to sing for the souls of me and my wife in the aforesaid parish church of St Andrew for the space of one whole year.
5. The residue of all my goods and debts unbequeathed I give and bequeath to my true and faithful wife, Joan Casson; she is to enjoy them during her life and she is to dispose of them for my soul's health according to her good discretion as she thinks best to please Almighty God.
6. The which Joan I make and ordain my sole executrix; Master Peter Walshale of London, gentleman, is to be overseer, and I bequeath to him for his labour, 6s. 8d.
Witnesses being present at the declaration and making of this my last will and testament: Sir John Chorley parson of my aforesaid parish church of St Andrew Hubbard, and Roger Grave citizen and woodmonger, to testify that this is my very will and testament specially thereto [if] required and desired.
Proved 3 November 1495.

281. (GLMS. 9171/8, f.125) JOHN BERELL. 7 April 1496.
1. I, John Berell, of the parish of St Andrew in Eastcheap, citizen and grocer of London, of whole mind and sound memory but sick in body, make my testament and last will in the following way. First, I leave and recommend my soul to Almighty God and the blessed Virgin Mary and to all the saints.
2. My body I give to Christian burial.
3. I give to the high altar of the parish church of St Andrew aforesaid, 3s. 4d.
4. I give to the same high altar of the aforesaid parish church for my tithes and oblations forgotten or negligently withheld, 3s. 4d.
5. The residue of all my goods not bequeathed I leave to my wife, Joan; she is to dispose of this for the health of my soul as seems best to her to please God.
6. The said Joan I make and ordain the sole executrix of this my last will and testament.
Proved 28 April 1496.

282. (GLMS. 9171/8, ff.229v-30) MAUD WULFE. 1 October 1500.
1. I, Maud Wulfe, widow, being of good and whole mind, make and ordain this my present testament containing my last will in the manner and form following. First and principally, I give and bequeath my soul to Almighty God, my maker and redeemer, and to Our Lady Saint Mary and to all the holy company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried within the church of St Andrew Hubbard of the City of London.
3. And to the high altar whereof I give and bequeath one tablecloth and one towel of diaper.
4. To the brotherhood of the Trinity, Our Lady and St Katherine within the said church of St Andrew, 6 napkins of diaper to pray for my soul.
5. I give and bequeath to the high altar of the church of St Clement without Temple Bar, where my husband is buried, one tablecloth of diaper.
6. I give and bequeath to the high altar of St Dunstan in the East, one tablecloth and one towel of diaper.
7. I revoke, relieve and forgive all manner of debts or duties if any such be between Joan Tapiser, widow of London, on the one part, and my husband Robert Wulfe and me on the other part for evermore, and here clearly discharge her and before God.
8. I give and bequeath the said Joan Tapiser my violet gown trimmed and furred with gray and my best beads [space] of silver and my best harnessed girdle parcel gilt.
9. I give and bequeath to my cousin, Elizabeth Andyn, my blue gown trimmed and furred with broad miniver, and my black lynyel kirtle.
10. I will that Robert Andyn have the mazer in his possession for evermore as his own proper goods.
11. To Joan Thornton, servant of the goodwife Tapiser, 1 tawny gown lined with buckram with her old scarlet kirtle.
12. To mother Bate an old kirtle of musterdevillers.
13. To Marion Baker one little gilt harness without a morse.
14. I will that my beads of coral be sold and the money coming from them is to given for a trental for my soul and all Christian souls.
15. I give and bequeath to Thomas Andlyn my great brass pot being in the custody of my mother.
16. And I make and ordain Joan Tapiser, John Charnold and John Sheffeld executors of this my present testament and last will; and I give and bequeath to John Sheffeld 3 silver spoons with lions gilt on the ends, and to John Charnold the 3 other silver spoons of the same set, which spoons are in my mother's custody.
17. The residue of my goods wheresoever they be, after my debts have been paid and my present testament fulfilled, are to be disposed by my executors to the worship of God and the health of my soul, and my husband's and all Christian souls.
18. I revoke and annul all other testaments and last wills, and any part of them, made for me whether they were made by me or by any other in my name, and I will that they be of no effect; and this my present testament containing my full and last will is to stand in effect and full strength.
[No note of probate].

283. (GLMS. 9171/9, ff.127–27v) ROGER GRAVE. 16 January 1516.
1. I, Roger Grave, citizen and woodmonger of London, in my right whole mind, this I make my present testament and last will in the form as follows. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty Jesus Christ, Our Lady Saint Mary and to all the whole blessed company of heaven.
2. My body is to be buried where God shall be pleased, and if I die within the parish of St George in Botolph Lane then I will you lay me as near the blessed picture of St Katherine in the body of the church as you may.
3. First, I give and bequeath to the high altar of St Andrew in Eastcheap for tithings and offerings negligently withheld and forgotten, 3s. 4d.
4. Also I give and bequeath to the brotherhood of the blessed Trinity, Our Lady and St Katherine of the said parish of St Andrew, 20d.
5. Also I give and bequeath to my sister, Ellen Hatfield, 10s. in ready money and to her husband one of my ray gowns the which shall please my wife and my overseer after their discretion.
6. Also I give and bequeath to Joan, daughter of my sister, Ellen, 6s. 8d.
7. Also I give and bequeath to my bretheren the woodmongers, 20s.
8. Also I give and bequeath to Thomas Kypper, my apprentice, a year of his term, a featherbed, a bolster, a pair of blankets and a pair of sheets, and if he weds Agnes at Master Green's then I give him 20s. towards their marriage, and one of my worsted doublets.
9. Also I give and bequeath to my brother, Thomas Grave, 20s., my second blue gown as it is with the fur, my bow with my quiver with my shestes.
10. And I would have before my death or thereupon 2 Masses of requiem sung at Scala Coeli, and in as short a time as they can after my death to have 3 Masses sung at the Scala Coeli – 2 of Jesus and 1 of Our Blessed Lady; and I will that every priest shall have 12d. apiece for singing their Mass.
11. And all the residue of my goods, movable and immovable, I give to my wife, Mary.
12. She is to be my sole executrix and with her my brother, Thomas Grave, is to be overseer to see this my will fulfilled as they shall answer before God, and they to bring me honestly to earth, all this fulfilled and done now this day above written.
This is my present testament and will written in my own hand by me Roger Grave, citizen and woodmonger.
Proved 26 September 1519.

284. (GLMS. 9171/9, f.6v) JOHN ROBINSON. 12 September 1516.
1. I, John Robinson, butcher, make and ordain this my present testament and last will in the manner and form as hereafter follows. First, I bequeath my soul to Almighty God, to the blessed Virgin, Our Lady Saint Mary, and to all the company of heaven.
2. And my body is to be buried in the churchyard of St Andrew's by Eastcheap.
3. Also I bequeath to the high altar of the same church for duties and oblations forgotten and withdrawn, 3s. 4d.
4. The residue of my goods I give to my wife and my child.
5. I make [my wife] my sole executrix and William Childerlay my overseer. This will made the year and day abovesaid in the presence of William Childerlay, Thomas Chatfyld and with others more.
Proved 10 October 1516.