Ffeil Clenennau letters and papers 327 [RESTRICTED ACCESS] - [Sir] William Maurice, Clenennau, to Sir Thomas Chamberlen, Chief Justice in the Marches of Wales,

Is very sorry that he is compelled to write, for he is unable to come himself as he wished, to salute Thomas Chamberlen at the Marches as general chief justice for Wales, though he is sorry for his departure. Informs Thomas Chamberlen of two 'harde accidentes' which happened to William Maurice in Ludlow when he met Thomas Chamberlen and Sir Frances Euere, the present justice. Firstly, William Maurice in good faith and hope of good dealings as promised, 'comprimetted' the matter he had in law against his neighbour Robert Wynn to the order of the Lord President, Sir Richard Lewkener and Sir Harry Toneshede who never came together to hear him. All that was done was before the Lord President only, with Thomas Chamberlen and Sir Francis Ewer present. William Maurice disclaimed his submission of any trial except before Thomas Chamberlen, the then justice, in the county, as Thomas Chamberlen knows, and the President then seemed to give it over to Thomas Chamberlen, which William Maurice hopes Thomas Chamberlen remembers. But in William Maurice's absence the President and Sir Harry, who had never heard his cause, made this award, charging William Maurice most unjustly with the payment of 20 marks of money and barring him from seeking remedy by law except in the county and that also partially tying William Maurice and leaving him [Robert Wynn] free for a second trial of the cause. Has sent the award by the bearer to show Thomas Chamberlen; if the latter has leisure to peruse it, would be very glad. The second harde happ' was to be bound for his kinsman Rowlande ap Elisse with the latter's son-in-law for a sum of £50 imposed on him, to save from further punishment. The son-in-law promised to discharge William Maurice but did not. Process came from the sheriff upon his bond for £29 which should have been paid at Midsummer. William Maurice was then in London and now sends the money, desiring Thomas Chamberlen's favour that it may be accepted for this payment; will bring the next himself in convenient time. Postscript relating to Sir William Maurice's dispute with Robert Wynn. Draft, in the hand of Sir William Maurice.