1372-06-20, Westminster

the sheriff of Kent. Strict order on sight of these presents to make inquisition of the constables of singular the towns upon the sea coast and the river Thames, within liberties without, what seamen and how many of every town are taken to the king's ships, by whom, and for what ship, and concerning number, names and cognisances of such seamen, and all extortions grievances in those parts committed by the masters and seamen king's ships, upon whom and in what manner committed, delay certifying under seal in chancery his action in the and sending again this writ ; as the king is informed that the and seamen of his ships are taking to them great number of for furnishing thereof more than need was, and from certain are extorting divers fines by threats and otherwise, by colour king's ships committing many other grievances against his whereat he is moved to anger; and he would be certified the premises. By K. and C. like to the following : The sheriff of Middlesex. The sheriff of Surrey. The sheriff of Essex. The sheriffs of London, mutatis mutandis, to make inquisition in like form of the aldermen of singular the wards of the city of London. of Hugh Picard and Nicholas Westurdale, being a joint several bond to William Mareschal rector of Merstone in 100 payable in the church of Merstone co. Bedford at Michaelmas Dated Merstone, Monday before St. John Baptist 46 Edward ITI. of acknowledgment, 22 June.