The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy

The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.

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On this Day in History ... 10th May

10 May is in May.

1307 Battle of Loudon Hill

1470 May 1470 Skirmish of Southampton

1509 Death of Henry VII

1533 Marriage of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn

1536 Trial of Brereton, Norris, Smeaton, and Weston

1536 Arrest of Anne Boleyn

1550 Peace of Boulogne

1641 Trial and Execution of the Earl of Strafford

1661 Creation of Baronets and Peerages by Charles II Post Coronation

1671 Blood Steals the Crown Jewels

1852 Gwendraeth Colliery Disaster

See Births, Marriages and Deaths.

Events on the 10th May

On 10th May 1290 Rudolf Habsburg II Duke Austria [aged 20] died at Prague.

Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough. Those who had carefully examined the events of past times, each separately and thoroughly questioned, all declared on their consciences that the supreme lordship of the kingdom of Scotland belonged to the King of England, unless something to the contrary, extracted from chronicles, could be produced to exclude it. Accordingly, King Edward summoned before him the prelates and nobles of the kingdom of Scotland in the parish church of Norham on the 10th of May in the aforementioned year, that is, 1291. There, through one of his knights, Roger Brabazon, he presented the following petition: Since in the Book of Wisdom, it is given as the first and principal command to those who rule that they love justice, who judge the earth; and according to the apostolic teaching, the fruit of this justice is sown in peace, which is the tranquility of order, by which equals and unequals are arranged in their fitting places; and among mortals, nothing more desirable than peace can be longed for, nor anything more pleasant be found, our illustrious lord King Edward, guided by paternal rule, taking counsel for those whom the Prince of Peace has set under him, whose government rests upon his shoulder, that he might uphold his subjects with kindly compassion, not in the manner of the reprobate Saul, who towered above his people and oppressed them tyrannically, seeing that this peace has been disturbed in the kingdom of Scotland by the death of King Alexander and his offspring who was closely related to our lord the king (a matter which greatly displeases him), for the sake of rendering justice to all who may lay rightful claim to the inheritance of the kingdom of Scotland, and for confirming peace among the people of that land, he has invited you nobles to come here; and he himself has come in person from distant lands so that, by virtue of the superior lordship which is his, he might do justice to all and remove every obstacle that could disturb the peace of that kingdom. Nor does he intend to usurp anything unjustly, or to delay anyone's justice, or to hinder or diminish any liberties, but rather to render justice to all, as supreme lord. And, in order that this matter may be brought to its proper conclusion, our lord the king asks your gracious assent in recognizing his overlordship, and wishes to proceed with your counsel to accomplish and maintain justice.

Qui retroacta tempora diligenter examinantes et singillatim et seorsum requisiti, in conscientiis suis dixerunt omnes quod supremum dominium regni Scotia pertineret ad regem Angliæ, nisi aliquid haberetur contrarium per quod excluderentur a chronicis extracta. Unde dictus rex Edwardus convocatis coram se prælatis et proceribus regni Scotia in ecclesia parochiali de Norham, VL idus Maii anno supradicto scilicet MCCXCI subscriptam petitionem per quendam suum militem Rogerum Brabason proposuit in hæc verba. Cum in libro Sapientiæ, hiis qui præsunt, primum et principaliters datum sit præceptum ut diligant justitiam qui judicant terram, et, secundum apostolicam doctrinam, hujus justitiæ fructus in pace seminatur, quæ est tranquillitas ordinis quo pares et impares locis sibi congruentibus disponantur, et apud mortales nihil pace desiderabilius conupisci, nihil jocundius valeat reperiri; illustris Edward I dominus rex noster paterno principatu hiis consulens quibus eum prætulit princeps pacis, cujus Scotland. imperium super humerum ejus, ut videlicet benigna pietate subditos supportet, non more reprobi Saulis, ab humeris et supra populo præeminentis et eundem populum tyrannice opprimentis, hanc pacem perturbari conspiciens in regno Scotia per mortem regis Alexandri et prolis suæ quæ propinqua erat domino regi nostro, quod displicet multum ei; pro justitia omnibus facienda, qui in hæreditate regni Scotiæ aliquid de jure vendicare possint, et pro pace confirmanda in populo dicta terræ, vos magnates rogavit huc venire; et ipsemet de longinquis partibus personaliter huc accessit ut per superiorem dominationem, quæ sua est, omnibus justitiam faciat et omnia impedimenta auferat quæ pacem dicti regni possunt perturbare; nec intendit quicquam indebite usurpare seu justitiam differre cujusquam, vel libertates impedire seu minuere, sed omnibus justitiam exhibere sicut dominus supremus. Et, ut istud negotium ad finem debitum possit deduci, petit dominus noster rex vestrum benignum in recognitione superioris dominii assensum, et vult operari de consilio vestro ad justitiam perficiendam et servandam.

Scalaronica. [10th May 1307]. Hearing of this, Aymer de Valence marched against him, when the said Robert de Brus encountered the said Aymer de Valence at Loudoun, and defeated him, and pursued him to the castle of Ayr;1 and on the third day [after] the said Robert de Brus defeated Rafe de Monthermer [aged 37], who was called Earl of Gloucester because Joan [deceased] the King's daughter and Countess of Gloucester had taken him for husband out of love [for him].

Note 1. Battle of Loudoun Hill, May 1307.

Annals of Six Kings of England by Nicholas Trivet [1258-1328]. Meanwhile Robert de Bruce, going about the country, slew many who were rebellious against him, and sent with part of his army his two brothers, Thomas, a knight, and Alexander, a cleric, into another part of the land, to draw the people to himself by persuasion and threats; but they were surprised by the English coming upon them by night, captured, brought before the justices, and condemned, first drawn, and afterwards hanged. After Easter, Robert de Bruce, his army now increased, engaged with Aymer de Valence [on 10th May 1307] and put him to flight, a few of those who were with him being slain; within the next three days he also routed the Earl of Gloucester, and, many being slain on both sides, besieged him in the castle of Ayr, until the siege was raised by an army sent by the king. Thereafter, the English pursuing him, he fled into marshy and wooded places, where, seeking hiding places, they were by no means able to capture him.

Interim Robertus de Brus circuiens terram multos sibi rebelles peremit, misitque cum parte exercitus duos fratres suos, Thomam militem et Alexandrum clericum, ad aliam partem terræ, ut homines terræ ad se allicerent blanditiis atque minis; qui ab Anglicis de nocte supervenientibus capti sunt, et ducti ad justitiarios, ac condemnati, primo tracti, et postea sunt suspensi. Post Pascha Robertus de Brus, aucto jam suo exercitu, congressus cum Aymerico de Valentiis, ipsum compulit in faram, paucis de his qui erant cum eo peremptis; infra triduum etiam sequens fugavit comitem Gloverniæ, multisque hinc inde occisis, ipsum obsedit in castro de Are, quousque per exercitum a rege missum fuit obsidio dissoluta. Extunc autem insequentibus um Anglicis, fugit ad loca palustria et nemorosa, in quibus latibula quæritantem comprehendere minime potuerunt.

On 10th May 1342 John Beaumont 2nd Baron Beaumont [aged 24] was killed in a tournament at . His son Henry [aged 2] succeeded 3rd Baron Beaumont.

Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke. At that same council, two counts and two clerics arrived, sent by the electoral body of the King of Germany, announcing to the king his passive election to the royal dignity of Germany. These envoys, having been received with proper honour and gratitude, were graciously acknowledged by the king's royal generosity, who replied1 that he would not place such a great burden upon his shoulders until he had peacefully come into possession of the crown of France, which he claimed was rightfully his by hereditary right.

Ad idem concilium accesserunt duo comites et duo clerici, missi a gremio electorum regis Alemannie, nunciantes regi suam passivam: eleccionem ad regiam dignitatem Alemannie. Illos nuncios cum honoure competenti et graciis receptos munificencia regalis benigne respexit; et eiis respondit se nolle tanto honeri humeros submittere, quousque suam coronam regiam Francie jure hereditario sibi debitam pacifice possideret.

Note 1. Edward's envoys declining the imperial crown were despatched on the 10th May 1348. Rymer's Fœdera 3.161.

On 10th May 1403 Katherine Swynford aka Roet Duchess Lancaster [aged 52] died at The Priory, Lincoln Cathedral Close. She was buried in Lincoln Cathedral [Map]. The monument is thought to be the work of Henry Yevele.

"Katherine's fine tomb chest of Purbeck marble, with its moulded plinth and lid, had armorial shields encircled by garters along each side; it was surmounted by a canopied brass depicting Katherine in her widow's weeds, and bearing her arms impaled with those of John of Gaunt, while above it was raised a vaulted canopy with trefoiled arches, cusped lozenges and miniature rose bosses. The canopy and associated stonework would have been painted in bright colours."

When John Leland visited the Cathedral in about 1540, he recorded that: "In the southe parte of the presbytery lyithe in 2. severalle highe marble tumbes in a chapell Catarine Swineforde, the 3. wife to John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, and Jane her dougtar Countes of Westmerland".

In 1654 John Evelyn's Diary: "The soldiers had lately knocked off most of the brasses from the gravestones".

At some point after this the position of the two monuments was changed and they now stand end to end.

Before 10th May 1470 John "Butcher of England" Tiptoft 1st Earl of Worcester [aged 43] sat in judgement on the Earl of Warwick's [aged 41] men who had attempted to steal the ship Trinity for the Earl of Warwick. In addition to the usual punishment of hanging, drawing and quartering Tiptoft also subjected the men's corpses to being impaled, perhaps unique in English punishments, but usual for pirates in Europe. His actions were described as cruel and unmerited by the common people and resulted in Tiptoft being known as 'Butcher'.

Hearne's Fragment. [Before 10th May 1470 ] Whereupon one Sir Geoffrey Gate, Knight, with the 'foresaid Clapham, had prepared at Southampton a company of their 'complices to have passed into France, to those Lords of Clarence and Warwick; but their purpose was soon disclosed. For the Earl of Worcester27 and the Lord Howard prevented them. In so much that many of them were taken, as Sir Geoffrey Gate, the which had his pardon and afterwards went to sanctuary. Clapham was beheaded and divers others hanged, etc.

Note 27. Lord Worcester ordered Clapham (a squire to Lord Warwick) and nineteen others, gentlemen and yeomen, fo be impaled, and from the horror of the spectacle inspired, and the universal odium it attached to Worcester, it is to be feared that the unhappy men were still sensible to the agony of this infliction, though they appear first to have been drawn, and partially hanged. Worcester was popularly called 'the Butcher,' from his cruelty.' — (Bulwer's Last of the Barons, vol. iii. p. 107.)

Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke

Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.

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Annales of England by John Stow. [Before 10th May 1470 ] King Edward comming to Hampton, caused John Tiptoft Earle of Worcester (and Constable of England for terme of his Life) to sit in judgement upon Clapham, and other Gentlemen taken in the ships, at a skirmish of Southampton, where to the number of twenty persons gentlemen and yeomen were drawne, hanged and headed: and after hanged by the legs on a gallows of a paire of buts length, and then having stakes put in their fundaments, their heads were set on thole stakes (an horrible spectacle) and so suffered to hang a long time after, to wit till the 15. of May.

Warkworth's Chronicle [1461-1474]. [10th May 1470] And whenne the Duke of Clarence and the Earl of Warwike herde the felde was loste, and how there cownselle was dyscoverede, they fledde westwarde to the see syde, and toke there here schippys, and sayled towarde Southamptone, and e[n]tendet there to have a grete schyppe of the seide Earl of Warwicks [aged 41], callyde the Trinite; but the Lorde Scales, the Quenes brother, was sent thedere by the Kynges commawndement, and other withe hym, and faught with the seide Duke and Earl, and toke there dyverse schyppes of theres and many of ther men therein; so that the Duke and the Earl were fayne to flee to the Kynge of Fraunce, where they were worschipfully receyved. And after this the Kynge Edwarde came to Southamptone, and commawndede the Earl of Worcetere [aged 43] to sitt and juge suche menne as were taken in the schyppes, and so xx. persones of gentylmen and yomenne were hangede, drawne, and quartered, and hedede; and after that they hanged uppe by the leggys, and a stake made scharpe at bothe endes, whereof one ende was putt in att bottokys, and the other ende ther heddes were putt uppe one; for the whiche the peple of the londe were gretely displesyd; and evere afterwarde the Earl of Worcestre was gretely behatede emonge the peple, for ther dysordinate dethe that he used, contrarye to the lawe of the londe.

After 10th May 1490 Alice Southill [deceased] was buried at Church of St Peter and St Paul, Exton, Rutlandshire [Map]. After 5th November 1524 John Harrington [aged 10] was buried with his wife.

Fluted Period. Esses and Roses Collar. The Bedesman, Chunky Lions Mane, Swirling Tail, Dogs chewing at her dress with Studded Collar, Dress Folds at Feet and Angels supporting the pillow are all indicative of Harpur and Moorecock of Burton on Trent.

Alice Southill: Around 1460 she was born to Henry Southill at Everingham. Before 10th May 1490 she died. In 1500 John Harrington and she were married. The difference in their ages was 20 years; she, unusually, being older than him.

John Harrington: After 1480 he was born to Robert Harrington at Exton, Rutlandshire. Date adjusted from 1473 to 1480 to be consistent with father's birth in 1465. On 5th November 1524 John Harrington died at Exton, Rutlandshire.

The Bedesman and Swirling Tail under his feet. Chunky Lions Mane.

Angels holding the pillow.

On 10th May 1491 Suzanne Bourbon Duchess Bourbon was born to Peter Bourbon II Duke Bourbon [aged 52] and Anne Valois Duchess Bourbon [aged 30]. Coefficient of inbreeding 3.41%. She married 10th May 1505 her second cousin Charles Bourbon III Duke Bourbon.

On 10th May 1505 Charles Bourbon III Duke Bourbon [aged 15] and Suzanne Bourbon Duchess Bourbon [aged 14] were married. She by marriage Duchess Bourbon. She the daughter of Peter Bourbon II Duke Bourbon and Anne Valois Duchess Bourbon [aged 44]. They were second cousins.

On 10th May 1507 Elizabeth Talbot Duchess Norfolk [aged 64] died.

Collectanea by John Leland [1502-1552]. The Manner of bringinge of Kynge Henrie the VII's [deceased] Corps frome Richmonde, where he departed to God the 21st Day of Aprili, the XXIIIJth Yeare of his Raigne, unto St. Powles Churche in London: And also of his Conveyance frome thence to the Abbie of Westminster; where he, a Prince most Royall, was solempnly enterred, which was the Tenth Day of May [10th May 1509], the First Yeare of the Raigne of Kynge Henry the Eight, 1485.

[From a Manuscript in the Harleian Library, N° 3504.]

Collectanea by John Leland [1502-1552]. [10th May 1509] First there came rydinge throughe the Cittie of London the Swerdebearer of London, and the Vice-Chamberleyne of the same, with Twoe of the Masters of the Brugehowse, to sett the Crafts in theire Order and Arraye. Then came Rydinge the Kyngs Messengers, twoe and twoe, with theire Boxes on theire Brests. Then the Kyngs Trumpeters; and after them the Kyngs still Minstrells. Then the Florentines, the Venetians, the Portingalls, the Spaniards, the Frenchmen, the Esterlings, the Gentlemen Ushers, the Kyngs Chapleyns havinge no Dignitye. The Squyers for the Boddie. The Aldermen of London. The Shreves, havinge in theire Hands Twoe Whyte Roddes. Then came there rydinge Twoe Herauds of Armes, in Twoe Cote Armurs; and after them came rydinge a noble Knyght, Mourner, uppon a goodlie Courser, trapped with Black Velvet, bearinge the Kyngs Stonderd, whose Name is Sir Edward Darrell [aged 43]; after whome came Knights. Then came the Chapleyns of Dignitie, as Deanes and suche other. Then the Kyng's Counsell, and Knights of the Garter beinge no Lords. Then the Chiefe Justice of the Common Place, and the Chiefe Baron of the Kyngs Exchequer: Then the Chiefe Justice of the Kings Bench, and the Master of the Rolles. Then came the Crowched Fryers on Foote, and all the Foure Orders of Fryers followinge, singinge. Then the Chanons of all the Places in London, in like wisse singinge. Then the Kyngs Chappell, in theire Surpleses and Grey Ameses, singinge. Then came rydinge all the Temporall Lords and Barrons, on the Left Hand; and all Abbotts and Bishopps, on the Right Hand. Then rode Sir Davie Owen [aged 50], bearinge an Helmet of Steele, crowned with a rich Crowne of Golde. Then rode Sir Edward Howard [aged 33], the Second Sonne of the Erle of Surrey [aged 66], Treasorer of England, armed complete, with the Kyngs Harnes, his Face discovered, bearinge in his Hand the Kings Battel Axe, the Heade downewarde, restnge on his Foote. Then followed him a Knyght called Sir Thomas Fyes, bearinge a riche Armour, embrodered with the Armes of England. Then came the Maior of London ymediately before the Charett, bearinge his Mace in his Hand. Then came the Charett wherein the Kyngs Corps lay. Upon the which lay a Picture resemblinge his Person crowned and richly apparreled in his Parliament Roobe, bearinge in his Right Hand a Scepter, and in his Left Hand a Ball of Golde, over whome there was hanginge a riche Cloth of Golde pitched upon Fowre Staves, which were sett at the Fowre Corners of the saide Charett, wich Charett was drawen with Seaven great Coursers, trapped in Black Velvett, with the Armes of England on everie Courser set on bothe Sydes, and on every Side of everie Courer, a Knight goinge on Foote, bearing a Banner in his Hand; and at everie Corner of the saide Charett a Baron goinge on Foote, bearing a Banner, in like Manner; wich IIIJor Banners were the Kyngs Avowries; whereof the First was of the Trinitie, the Second of our Ladie, the Third of St. George, the fourth of.... And in the said Charett there were sittinge Twoe Gentlemen. Usshers of the Kyngs Chamber, One at the Heade of the Kynge and the other at the Feete, mourninge. Then followed the said Charett the Duke of Buckingham [aged 31], the Earle of Arondell [aged 59], the Earle of Northumberland [aged 31], the Earle of Shrewsberie [aged 41], the Earle of Surrey, the Earle of Essex, and other, to the Nomber of Nyne, beinge Knyghts of the Garter, in a Range one after another, as they were in Degree. Then followed them IX of the Kyngs Henchemen, ridinge on goodlie Coursers, trapped in Black Velvett, of the wich the three foremost did beare three Capps of Maintenances, wich three Popes had sent the Kynge duringe the Tyme of his Raigne. The next three Henchmen did beare three riche Swordes the Points downward, the seaventh bare a Target of the Armes of England, otherwise called a Sheild crowned, the eight bare an Helmet with a Lyon of Golde upon it. The IXth bare a Speare covered with Black Velvett. Then followed the Master of the Horses called Sir Thomas Brandon, leadinge in his Hande a goodlie Courser trapped with Black Velvett, richely embrodered with the Armes of England; whome followed the Lord Darcy [aged 42], beinge Captayn of the Garde. After whome came the Garde, and many other Gentlemen. Then the worshipfull Men of the Crafts of London, which were appointed by theire Fellowship to set in the said Corps. Then Lords Servaunts followed, beinge a great Nomber.

Collectanea by John Leland [1502-1552]. [10th May 1509] And on the Morrowe the said Duke and Earles, with the other Lords, beinge in the Churche before Six of the Clock, there were Three Solempne Masses, songe in theire dewe Order. Of the which Masses the Abbott of Westminster sange the First of our Ladie, which was done before Seaven of the Clock, and incontinente the Bisshop of Winchester sange the Second of the Trinitie, th Abbott of St. Albones beinge his Deacon, and th Abbott of Readinge beinge his Subdeacon: Which done th Archeb. of Canterbury, beinge accompained with the Nomber of XVIII Bisshops and Abbotts, revested and mytred, came unto the Alter, to singe the solempn Masse of Requiem. To whome was Deacon the Bisshop of Lincoln, and Subdeacon the Bisshop of Norwiche. And when the said Bisshops and Abbotts had brought him to the Altar, they went into the Queire, and there stayred unto the Offieringe Tyme, except the Deacon and Subdeacon, which gave theire Attendance. And at the Offieringe Tyme the said Bisshop anci Abbotts came agnine to the Alter, and gave their dewe Attendance upon the Archeb. of Canterbury, comminge frome the Alter unto the Second Step of the said Alter, where he received the Offeringe in this manner followinge.

From 10th May 1533 to 17th May 1533 John Bell served as proctor for the king at the trial at Dunstable Abbey [Map] which definitively nullified Henry's first marriage in time for the coronation of Anne Boleyn.

Letters and Papers Foreign and Domestic Henry VIII 1533. 10th May 1533. 465. The King's marriage was celebrated, as it is reported, on the day of the Conversion of St. Paul [25th January 1533]; and because at that time Dr. Bonner [aged 33] had returned from Rome, and the Nuncio of the Pope was frequently at Court, some suspect that the Pope had given a tacit consent which I cannot believe. It is true that from that time the said Nuncio did not go very frankly into business; and although before the said statute I had solicited him according to the charge he had from his Holiness, and to the promise he had made me, when I presented your Majesty's letters to him, to put the brief in execution against the Archbishop, or that he would assist me in it, he has done nothing about it, and I fear that, "à la sourde," [in secret] he has not always done his duty. The duke of Norfolk's mission to France is only founded on the Pope's journey to Nice, as I lately wrote. He came eight days ago, accompanied by the King's physician, to visit the French ambassador, who is ill of a tertian fever; and being there at dinner, some one asked if he was not going to Rome as reported; to which he replied, either for brag or to disguise his going to the Pope, that he would never go to Rome except with lance on thigh.

Letters and Papers Foreign and Domestic Henry VIII 1533. 10th May 1533. 465. On the 7th I was at Westminster at 8 a.m., where were assembled in council the Chancellor, the earls of Wiltshire [aged 56] and Essex, lord Rochford [aged 30], the Treasurer, the Controller, Cromwell, the two chief judges of England, Drs. Fox and Sampson, and others. The two Dukes were not there, because they had gone home to their houses. On Wiltshire arriving there, he drew from his pouch the letter I had written to the King, asking me the meaning of it, and that I would show the power therein mentioned. To this I replied, that as to showing the power I had no great occasion, for as I was ambassador it was only of use to me for my discharge as against your Majesty, in case I should be accused of having intermeddled too far. Nevertheless, to show that I did not wish to stand on ceremony, I was willing to satisfy the King by producing the said power, and I threw it upon the table; which being read, I declared my said letter summarily, giving them to understand the tenor of the briefs and excommunications. On hearing this, Wiltshire, as one much grieved and astonished, began to say that the said letter appeared a little strange, and that it was of such a quality that if it had been written by any one in the kingdom, however great, his body and goods would be confiscated by virtue of the late statute, of which he desired to notify me by the command of the King, who had besides ordered him to tell me that if I desired to live in peace and do the duty of an ambassador, as I had done till now, the King would treat me most favorably, as much as any ambassador who could come to him from any prince; but if I meant to assume two faces, and exceed the duty of an ambassador, it would be another thing. Therefore, I ought to consider well how I interfered in the matters contained in the said power. On this I said he acted like the eels of Meaux1, who cry before they are skinned; for as yet I had neither appealed nor presented apostolic letters, nor done anything by my said letter of which they could reasonably complain, even if it had been written by any other than an ambassador. As to the good treatment of the King, of which he spoke, I held myself very well satisfied hitherto, and that he was so virtuous and humane that he could not do otherwise; also he could not, without injuring his reputation. As to the two faces of which he spoke, I did not yet know this art, if he did not teach it to me. By these two faces he meant, to attempt to act as ambassador and as proctor. At last I told him he might lawfully enough excuse himself from speaking of this matter, as being an interested party, and moreover that it was a matter for learned men. At this he knew not what to say, except that he referred himself to others.

Note 1. Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde.

Letters and Papers. 10th May 1536. R. O. 837. Sir John Duddeley [aged 32] to Lady Lisle [aged 42].

Asks her to speak to her husband [aged 72] that the bearer may have the next vacant soldier's room. Is sure there is no need to write the news, for all the world knows them by this time. Today Mr. Norres [aged 54], Mr. Weston [aged 25], William a Brearton, Markes [aged 24], and Lord Rochforde [aged 33] were indicted, and on Friday they will be arraigned at Westminster. The Queen herself will be condemned by Parliament. Wednesday, 10 May.

Hol., p. 1. Add.: At Calais.

Letters and Papers. 10th May 1536. Add. MS. 8715, f. 248b. B. M. 838. Bishop of Faenza [aged 36] to Mons. Ambrogio.

News came yesterday from England that the King had caused to be arrested the Queen [aged 35], her father, mother, brother [aged 33], and an organist [aged 24] with whom she had been too intimate. If it be as is reported, and as the cardinal Du Bellay has given him to understand, it is a great judgment of God. Hears that that King has so bound himself to this king (Francis), that he hopes, if it is so, that the Pope will regain him by means of these people (the French), because Madame Madalena ought reasonably to be given to him. The King is going seven leagues hence, but intends to return. The ambassadors are staying by order of the Grand Master.

Ital., p. 1. Modern copy. Headed: Al Signor Protonotario Ambrogio. Da Suoyeu, li 10 Maggio 1536.

ii. Extract from the original letter in the Vatican. Dated Suryeu le Contal (Sury le Comtat), 10 May 1536.

Diary of Edward VI. 10th May 1550. The French king toke the othe for th'acceptation of the treaty.

Anne Boleyn. Her Life as told by Lancelot de Carle's 1536 Letter.

In 1536, two weeks after the execution of Anne Boleyn, her brother George and four others, Lancelot du Carle, wrote an extraordinary letter that described Anne's life, and her trial and execution, to which he was a witness. This book presents a new translation of that letter, with additional material from other contemporary sources such as Letters, Hall's and Wriothesley's Chronicles, the pamphlets of Wynkyn the Worde, the Memorial of George Constantyne, the Portuguese Letter and the Baga de Secrets, all of which are provided in Appendices.

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Henry Machyn's Diary. 10th May 1559. The x day of May the parlement was endyd, [and the] Quen('s) [aged 25] grace whent to the parliament howsse.

On 10th May 1619 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet [aged 46] died. He was buried at the Church of St James, Gawsworth [Map]. His son Edward [aged 16] succeeded 2nd Baronet Fitton of Gawsworth Hall.

Originally a canopied monument what remains of the canopy is fixed to the wall.

The inscriptions: A monumnt erected by the lady Ann Fytton to the memory of her deare husband sir Edward Fytton, baronet, who departed this life May 10, Anno Dom. 1619 et ætatis 47.

On the lower tablet:

Least tongues to future ages should be dumb,

The very stones thus speake above our tombe,

Loe two made one, whence sprang these many more,

Of whom a King once prophecy'd before: (Psa. 128)

Here's the blest man, his wife the fruitful vine, Lo

The children th'olive plants, a gracefull line,

Whose soules and body's beauties sentence them

Fittons to weare a heavenly diadem."

Edward Fitton 1st Baronet: On 3rd December 1572 he was born to Edward Fitton and Alice Holcroft. Before 1594 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet and Anne Barratt were married. On 2nd October 1617 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet was created 1st Baronet Fitton of Gawsworth Hall by King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.

Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet: In 1603 he was born to Edward Fitton 1st Baronet and Anne Barratt. Before 1631 Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet and Jane Trevor were married. After 1638 Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet and Felicia Sneyd were married.

On 10th May 1639 Miles Armiger died unmarried. Monument at St Withburga's Church, Holkham [Map]. Probably sculpted by Robert Pook who was an assistant to Nicholas Stone [aged 52].

Miles Armiger: he was born to William Armiger of North Creeke.

On 13th April 1641 Thomas Wentworth 1st Earl Strafford [aged 48] was attainted by 204 votes to 59 ostensibly for his authoritarian rule as Lord Deputy of Ireland. Despite his promise not to King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 40] signed the death warrant on the 10th May 1641 in the light of increasing pressure from Parliament and the commons.

Wenceslaus Hollar [aged 33]. Engraving of the Trial of Thomas Wentworth 1st Earl Strafford with the following marked:

A. King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland.

C. Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England [aged 31].

D. King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 10].

E. Thomas Howard 14th or 21st Earl of Arundel 4th Earl of Surrey 1st Earl Norfolk [aged 55], Lord High Steward.

F. Henry Montagu 1st Earl Manchester [aged 78], Lord Keeper of the Great Seal.

G. John Paulet 5th Marquess Winchester [aged 43].

H. Robert Bertie 1st Earl Lindsey [aged 58], Lord Chamberlain.

I. Philip Herbert 4th Earl Pembroke 1st Earl Montgomery [aged 56], Lord Chamberlain of the Household.

V. Thomas Wentworth 1st Earl Strafford.

Z. Alethea Talbot Countess Arundel, Surrey and Norfolk [aged 56].

On 10th May 1642 David Barry 1st Earl Barrymore [aged 37] stormed Ballymacpatrick Castle [now Careyville Castle], Fermoy, County Cork hanging forty of the rebels before breakfast.

John Evelyn's Diary. 9th May 1660. I was desired and designed to accompany my Lord Berkeley [aged 32] with the public address of the Parliament, General, etc., to the King [aged 29], and invite him to come over and assume his Kingly Government, he being now at Breda [Map]; but I was yet so weak, I could not make that journey by sea, which was not a little to my detriment, so I went to London to excuse myself, returning the 10th, having yet received a gracious message from his Majesty by Major Scot and Colonel Tuke [aged 45].

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1660. This morning came on board Mr. Pinkney and his son, going to the King with a petition finely writ by Mr. Whore, for to be the King's [aged 29] embroiderer; for whom and Mr. Saunderson [aged 74] I got a ship. This morning come my Lord Winchelsea and a great deal of company, and dined here. In the afternoon, while my Lord and we were at musique in the great cabin below, comes in a messenger to tell us that Mr. Edward Montagu [aged 12], [Sir Edward Montagu's eldest son, afterwards second Earl of Sandwich, called by Pepys "The child".] my Lord's son, was come to Deal, Kent [Map], who afterwards came on board with Mr. Pickering [aged 42] with him. The child was sick in the evening. At night, while my Lord was at supper, in comes my Lord Lauderdale and Sir John Greenville, who supped here, and so went away. After they were gone, my Lord called me into his cabin, and told me how he was commanded to set sail presently for the King1, and was very glad thereof, and so put me to writing of letters and other work that night till it was very late, he going to bed. I got him afterwards to sign things in bed. After I had done some more work I to bed also.

Note 1. Ordered that General Montagu [aged 34] do observe the command of His Majesty for the disposing of the fleet, in order to His Majesty's returning home to England to his kingly government: and that all proceedings in law be in His Majesty's name. Rugge's Diurnal. B.

In May 1661 King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 30] created new Baronetcies and Peerages...

10th May 1661 William Smyth 1st Baronet [aged 45] was created 1st Baronet Smyth of Redcliff in Buckinghamshire.

16th May 1661 Hugh Smyth 1st Baronet [aged 29] was created 1st Baronet Smyth of Ashton Court in Somerset. Anne Ashburnham Lady Smyth [aged 23] by marriage Lady Smyth of Ashton Court in Somerset.

18th May 1661 Robert Jenkinson 1st Baronet [aged 40] was created 1st Baronet Jenkinson of Walcot in Oxfordshire and of Hawkesbury in Gloucestershire.

20th May 1661 William Glynne 1st Baronet [aged 23] was created 1st Baronet Glynne of Bicester aka Bisseter in Oxfordshire.

23rd May 1661 Henry Ingram 1st Viscount Irvine [aged 21] was created 1st Viscount Irvine.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1662. At noon to the Wardrobe; there dined. My Lady told me how my Baroness Castlemaine's [aged 21] do speak of going to lie in at Hampton Court [Map]; which she and all our ladies are much troubled at, because of the King's being forced to show her countenance in the sight of the Queen [aged 23] when she comes.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1665. Up betimes, and abroad to the Cocke-Pitt, where the Duke [aged 56] [of Albemarle] did give Sir W. Batten [aged 64] and me an account of the late taking of eight ships, and of his intent to come back to the Gunfleete1 with the fleete presently; which creates us much work and haste therein, against the fleete comes.

Note 1. The Gunfleet Sand off the Essex coast.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1667. Then to my Lord Treasurer's [aged 60], but missed Sir Ph. Warwicke [aged 57], and so back again, and drove hard towards Clerkenwell1, thinking to have overtaken my Lady Newcastle [aged 44], whom I saw before us in her coach, with 100 boys and girls running looking upon her but I could not: and so she got home before I could come up to her. But I will get a time to see her. So to the office and did more business, and then home and sang with pleasure with my wife, and to supper and so to bed.

Note 1. At Newcastle House, Clerkenwell Close, the duke [aged 74] and duchess lived in great state. The house was divided, and let in tenements in the eighteenth century.

Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1668. Lord's Day. Up, and to the office, there to do, business till church time, when Mr. Shepley, newly come to town, come to see me, and we had some discourse of all matters, and particularly of my Lord Sandwich's [aged 42] concernments, and here did by the by as he would seem tell me that my Lady [Lady Sandwich [aged 43].] had it in her thoughts, if she had occasion, to, borrow £100 of me, which I did not declare any opposition to, though I doubt it will be so much lost. But, however, I will not deny my Lady, if she ask it, whatever comes of it, though it be lost; but shall be glad that it is no bigger sum. And yet it vexes me though, and the more because it brings into my head some apprehensions what trouble I may here after be brought to when my Lord comes home, if he should ask me to come into bonds with him, as I fear he will have occasions to make money, but I hope I shall have the wit to deny it. He being gone, I to church, and so home, and there comes W. Hewer [aged 26] and Balty [aged 28], and by and by I sent for Mercer to come and dine with me, and pretty merry, and after dinner I fell to teach her "Canite Jehovae", which she did a great part presently, and so she away, and I to church, and from church home with my Lady Pen [aged 44]; and, after being there an hour or so talking, I took her, and Mrs. Lowther, and old Mrs. Whistler, her mother-in-law, by water with great pleasure as far as Chelsy, and so back to Spring Garden, at Fox-Hall, and there walked, and eat, and drank, and so to water again, and set down the old woman at home at Durham Yard:' and it raining all the way, it troubled us; but, however, my cloak kept us all dry, and so home, and at the Tower Wharfe [Map] there we did send for a pair of old shoes for Mrs. Lowther, and there I did pull the others off and put them on, elle being peu shy, but do speak con mighty kindness to me that she would desire me pour su mari if it were to be done.... Here staid a little at Sir W. Pen's [aged 47], who was gone to bed, it being about eleven at night, and so I home to bed.

Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall

The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.

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Samuel Pepys' Diary. 10th May 1669. Troubled, about three in the morning, with my wife's calling her maid up, and rising herself, to go with her coach abroad, to gather May-dew, which she did, and I troubled for it, for fear of any hurt, going abroad so betimes, happening to her; but I to sleep again, and she come home about six, and to bed again all well, and I up and with Mr. Gibson by coach to St. James's, and thence to White Hall, where the Duke of York [aged 35] met the Office, and there discoursed of several things, particularly the Instructions of Commanders of ships. But here happened by chance a discourse of the Council of Trade, against which the Duke of York is mightily displeased, and particularly Mr. Child, against whom he speaking hardly, Captain Cox did second the Duke of York, by saying that he was talked of for an unfayre dealer with masters of ships, about freight: to which Sir T. Littleton [aged 48] very hotly and foolishly replied presently, that he never heard any honest man speak ill of Child; to which the Duke of York did make a smart reply, and was angry; so as I was sorry to hear it come so far, and that I, by seeming to assent to Cox, might be observed too much by Littleton, though I said nothing aloud, for this must breed great heart-burnings. After this meeting done, the Duke of York took the Treasurers into his closet to chide them, as Mr. Wren [aged 40] tells me; for that my Lord Keeper did last night at the Council say, when nobody was ready to say any thing against the constitution of the Navy, that he did believe the Treasurers of the Navy had something to say, which was very foul on their part, to be parties against us. They being gone, Mr. Wren [and I] took boat, thinking to dine with my Lord of Canterbury [aged 70]; but, when we come to Lambeth, the gate was shut, which is strictly done at twelve o'clock, and nobody comes in afterwards: so we lost our labour, and therefore back to White Hall, and thence walked my boy Jacke with me, to my Lord Crew [aged 71], whom I have not seen since he was sick, which is eight months ago, I think and there dined with him: he is mightily broke. A stranger a country gentleman, was with him: and he pleased with my discourse accidentally about the decay of gentlemen's families in the country, telling us that the old rule was, that a family might remain fifty miles from London one hundred years, one hundred miles from London two hundred years, and so farther, or nearer London more or less years. He also told us that he hath heard his father say, that in his time it was so rare for a country gentleman to come to London, that, when he did come, he used to make his will before he set out.

John Evelyn's Diary. 10th May 1671. Dined at Mr. Treasurer's [aged 40], in company with Monsieur De Grammont [aged 50] and several French noblemen, and one Blood [aged 53], that impudent, bold fellow who had not long before attempted to steal the imperial crown itself out of the Tower of London [Map], pretending only curiosity of seeing the regalia there, when, stabbing the keeper, though not mortally, he boldly went away with it through all the guards, taken only by the accident of his horse falling down. How he came to be pardoned, and even received into favor, not only after this, but several other exploits almost as daring both in Ireland and here, I could never come to understand. Some believed he became a spy of several parties, being well with the sectaries and enthusiasts, and did his Majesty [aged 40] services that way, which none alive could do so well as he; but it was certainly the boldest attempt, so the only treason of this sort that was ever pardoned. This man had not only a daring but a villanous, unmerciful look, a false countenance, but very well-spoken and dangerously insinuating.

John Evelyn's Diary. 10th May 1672. I was ordered, by letter from the Council, to repair forthwith to his Majesty [aged 41], whom I found in the Pall-Mall [Map], in St. James's Park, where his Majesty coming to me from the company, commanded me to go immediately to the seacoast, and to observe the motion of the Dutch fleet and ours, the Duke [aged 38] and so many of the flower of our nation being now under sail, coming from Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map], through the Downs, where it was believed there might be an encounter.

John Evelyn's Diary. 10th May 1684. I went to visite my brother in Surrey. Call'd by the way at Ashted, where Sr Rob Howard [aged 58] (Auditor of the Exchequer) entertain'd me very civilly at his new built house, which stands in a Park on the Downe, the avenue South; tho' downe hill to the house, which is not greate, but with the outhouses very convenient. The stairecase is painted by Verrio [aged 48] with the storie of Astrea; amongst other figures is the Picture of the Painter himselfe, and not unlike him; the rest is well done, onely the columns did not at all please me; there is also Sir Robert's own Picture in an oval; the whole in fresca. The place has this greate defect, that there is no water but what is drawn up by horses from a very deepe well.

John Evelyn's Diary. 10th May 1685. The Scots valueing themselves exceedingly to have ben ye first Parliament call'd by his Ma* [aged 51], gave the Excise and Costomes to him and his successors for ever; yfc D. of Queensberry [aged 48] making eloquent speeches, and especialy minding them of a speedy suppression of those late despe rate Field-Conventiclers who had done such unheard-of assassinations. In the meane time elections for the ensueing Parliament in England were thought to be very indirectly carried on in most places. God grant a better issue of it than some expect!

On 10th May 1699 Frances Thynne Duchess Somerset was born to Henry Thynne [aged 24] and Grace Strode. She married 5th July 1715 her third cousin once removed Algernon Seymour 7th Duke of Somerset, son of Charles Seymour 6th Duke of Somerset and Elizabeth Percy Duchess Somerset, and had issue.

On 10th May 1726 Charles Beauclerk 1st Duke St Albans [aged 56] died at Bath, Somerset [Map]. He was buried at Westminster Abbey [Map]. His son Charles [aged 30] succeeded 2nd Duke St Albans, 2nd Earl Burford, 2nd Baron Heddington. Lucy Werden Duchess St Albans [aged 27] by marriage Duchess St Albans.

On 10th May 1762 Robert Montagu 3rd Duke Manchester [aged 52] died. His son George [aged 25] succeeded 4th Duke Manchester, 7th Earl Manchester, 7th Viscount Mandeville, 7th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton.

On 10th May 1774 Louis XV King France [aged 64] died of smallpox. His grandson Louis [aged 19] succeeded XVI King France: Capet Valois Bourbon.

Anne Boleyn. Her Life as told by Lancelot de Carle's 1536 Letter.

In 1536, two weeks after the execution of Anne Boleyn, her brother George and four others, Lancelot du Carle, wrote an extraordinary letter that described Anne's life, and her trial and execution, to which he was a witness. This book presents a new translation of that letter, with additional material from other contemporary sources such as Letters, Hall's and Wriothesley's Chronicles, the pamphlets of Wynkyn the Worde, the Memorial of George Constantyne, the Portuguese Letter and the Baga de Secrets, all of which are provided in Appendices.

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On 10th May 1806 Louisa Elizabeth Somerset was born to Henry Charles Somerset 6th Duke Beaufort [aged 39] and Charlotte Sophia Leveson-Gower Duchess Beaufort [aged 35]. She married 22nd October 1832 her fifth cousin once removed George Finch, son of George Finch 9th Earl Winchilsea 4th Earl Nottingham, and had issue.

Letters of Harriet, Countess Granville. To the Duke of Devonshire [aged 21]. London: May 10, 1812.

Granville is gone to vote against Reform1, and G. is at Spencer House. I am quite alone, very tired, have seen nobody, heard nothing, and it is therefore only upon the score of brotherly love that you can be glad to hear from me. My last gaiety was at Lady Essex's on Sunday, where Lady Hamilton [aged 47] did attitudes in a shawl of Lady Essex's [aged 52], who looked inspired and will I hope shortly take to doing them herself.

I was at Mrs. Gordon's on Monday. It was very pleasant. She did the honours so sturdily and goodhumouredly, that it made everything go off well. I saw my Aunt Spencer, grunting and elbowing through the crowd and afterwards squatting down with a bevy of respectable women about her. It must be dull for Georgiana2, who seems to have no acquaintance but Lady Cork, the Dowager Lady Pembroke [aged 75], and Mrs. Howe.

Dear Rawdon was pushing about in a fury, her shawl upon her arm and in her countenance 'I will endure it no longer.' The daughter very pretty, but her blooming little face quite lost in curls and nosegays. Lady Sandon, with her eyes shut, steered about between them.

Lord Byron [aged 24] is still upon a pedestal and Caroline William [aged 26] doing homage. I have made acquaintance with him. He is agreeable, but I feel no wish for any further intimacy. His countenance is fine when it is in repose, but the moment it is in play, suspicious, malignant, and consequently repulsive. His manner is either remarkably gracious and conciliatory, with a tinge of affectation, or irritable and impetuous, and then I am afraid perfectly natural.

Note 1. Mr. Canning and his Mends had gradually adopted Liberal opinions on most questions except Beform. After his death they most of them supported, Lord Grey in his Reform policy.

Note 2. Her daughter.

On 13th March 1834 Charles Philip Yorke [aged 70] died without issue one day after his seventieth birthday. On 10th May 1854 Harriet Manningham [aged 70] died. Both buried at St Andrew's Church, Wimpole [Map].

Framed inscription panel with achievement of arms, supported by consoles and surmounted by a sarcophagus, in various marbles, signed by Thomas Denman [aged 44].

The quote 'Et Nos Aliquod' appears to refer to Vergils Aeneid Paragraph 57 Sentence 4 "et nos aliquod nomenque decusque gessimus." meaning "I also had some name and respect".

Charles Philip Yorke: On 12th March 1764 he was born to Charles Yorke and Agneta Johnson. On 1st July 1790 Charles Philip Yorke and Harriet Manningham were married.

Harriet Manningham: On 21st June 1763 she was born to Charles Manningham of Thorpe in Surrey.

After 10th May 1834. St Mary's Church, Buckden [Map]. Monument to an unamed Officer.

Vestiges of the Antiquities of Derbyshire. On the 10th of May, 1844, the more elevated portion of the barrow at Galley Lowe [Map], which was not thoroughly explored on the former occasion (August 24, 1843) was opened afresh. This part of the tumulus was found to be composed principally of stone having but a slight admixture of soil and being raised to an elevation of five feet its conical form being preserved by a circle of large limestones at the base inclining inwards. On the floor of the barrow no interment was discovered but amongst the loose stones about three feet from the surface was found a human skeleton near which upon a flat stone, was placed a deposit of calcined human bones. About a yard nearer to the centre of the mound, upon the same level, was another skeleton, apparently of a young person. Both these interments were unaccompanied by articles of any description, nothing being found but one piece of urn, which was noticed on refilling the excavation.

On 10th May 1852 twenty-six men and boys were killed at ten o'clock at night when flooding swept through the Gwendraeth Colliery. The accident occurred at night; had it been during the day four times the number would have died. Only one of the workers, David Evans, escaped. It took eighteen months to recover the bodies.

According to the London Times, among those who lost their lives, William Hughes left a wife and four children; John Hughes, 22, also died and David Jones left six children without a mother, along with Griffith Lewis, 18; Morgan Griffiths, 18; William Davies, 12 and Thomas Morris, 18. Stephen Phillips left a wife and three children, Thomas Richards left a wife and a child, while David Rees left a wife and two children. Brothers Daniel and David Thomas, aged around 11 and 12 years, died.

On 10th May 1860 Abraham Solomon [aged 37] and Ella Hart were married.

The London Gazette 24843. St. James's Palace, May 10, 1880. THE Queen has been pleased to appoint to be Lords in Waiting in Ordinary to Her Majesty:-

Frederick Henry Paul [aged 62], Lord Methuen in the room of William, Lord Bagot [aged 69], resigned.

Lawrance [aged 35], Earl of Zetland, in the room of Charles Adolphus [aged 39], Earl of Dunmore, resigned.

William [aged 46], Earl of Listowel, in the room of Dudley Charles FitzGerald [aged 53], Lord de Ros, resigned.

Thomas [aged 25], Lord Ribblesdale, in the room of William Buller Fullerton [aged 51], Lord Elphinstone, resigned.

Charles Douglas Richard [aged 39], Lord Sudeley, in the room of John Major [aged 37], Lord Henniker, resigned.

Arthur [aged 55], Lord Wrottesley, in the room of Cornwallis [aged 63], Viscount Hawarden, resigned.

The London Gazette 24843. Whitehall, May 10, 1880. THE Queen has been pleased to direct Letters Patent to be passed under the Great Seal appointing the Most Noble Hugh Lupus [aged 54] Duke of Westminstera K.G., Master of the Horse to Her Majesty.

On 10th May 1898 William Amelius Aubrey Beauclerk 10th Duke St Albans [aged 58] died. On His son Charles [aged 28] succeeded 11th Duke St Albans, 11th Earl Burford, 11th Baron Heddington, 8th Baron Vere of Hanworth in Middlesex.

10th May 1898. James Lafayette [aged 45]. Photograph of Mary Caurroy Tribe Duchess Bedford [aged 32]. After leaving Woburn Abbey in a DH.60GIII Moth Major (G-ACUR), she crashed into the North Sea off Great Yarmouth. The airplane's struts were later washed up at Yarmouth, Gorleston, Lowestoft and Southwold. Her body was never recovered. On 14th May, a body of a woman in a flying suit was found in the English Channel, by a train ferry, five miles out from Dover, but Flight Lieut. Preston said there was no chance of the body being the Duchess - there were quite a few daring female aviators lost over the sea in those early years.

On 10th May 1907 Alfonso Bourbon was born to Alfonso XIII King Spain [aged 20] and Victoria Eugénie Mountbatten Queen Consort Spain [aged 19]. He a great grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He married (1) 21st June 1933 Edelmira Sampedro (2) 3rd July 1937 Marta Esther Rocafort Altuzarra.

On 10th May 1920. Probate for James Forsyth of Ednam House. Executors William Adam Forsyth [aged 47] Architect and John Dudley Forsyth [aged 45] Artist. Effects £7969 14s 4d.

Births on the 10th May

On 10th May 1491 Suzanne Bourbon Duchess Bourbon was born to Peter Bourbon II Duke Bourbon [aged 52] and Anne Valois Duchess Bourbon [aged 30]. Coefficient of inbreeding 3.41%. She married 10th May 1505 her second cousin Charles Bourbon III Duke Bourbon.

Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'

This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.

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On 10th May 1509 Edward Stanley 3rd Earl of Derby was born to Thomas Stanley 2nd Earl of Derby [aged 24] and Anne Hastings Countess Derby [aged 24]. Coefficient of inbreeding 1.91%. He married (1) in or before 1530 his third cousin Katherine Howard Countess Derby, daughter of Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk and Elizabeth Stafford Duchess Norfolk, and had issue (2) before September 1531 his half third cousin once removed Dorothy Howard Countess Derby, daughter of Thomas Howard 2nd Duke of Norfolk and Agnes Tilney Duchess Norfolk, and had issue.

On 10th May 1529 William Eure 2nd Baron Eure was born to Ralph Eure. He married before 1558 his third cousin once removed Margaret Dymoke and had issue.

On 10th May 1647 Archdeacon William Turner was born to Dean Thomas Turner [aged 56] and Margaret Windebank.

On 10th May 1693 Henry Hare 3rd Baron Coleraine was born to Hugh Hare [aged 25] and Lydia Carlton. He married 20th January 1718 Anne Hanger.

On 10th May 1699 Frances Thynne Duchess Somerset was born to Henry Thynne [aged 24] and Grace Strode. She married 5th July 1715 her third cousin once removed Algernon Seymour 7th Duke of Somerset, son of Charles Seymour 6th Duke of Somerset and Elizabeth Percy Duchess Somerset, and had issue.

On 10th May 1730 Thomas St Lawrence 1st Earl Howth was born to William St Lawrence 14th Baron Howth [aged 42] and Lucy Gorges Baroness Howth [aged 23]. He married 1773 Isabella King Countess Howth, daughter of Henry King 3rd Baronet and Isabella Wingfield Lady King, and had issue.

On 10th May 1739 Henry Howard 12th Earl Suffolk 5th Earl Berkshire was born to William Howard [aged 24] and Mary Finch [aged 23]. He married 14th August 1777 his first cousin Charlotte Finch Countess Suffolk and Berkshire, daughter of Heneage Finch 3rd Earl Aylesford and Charlotte Seymour Countess Aylesford, and had issue.

On 10th May 1742 George Osborn 4th Baronet was born to Danvers Osborn 3rd Baronet [aged 26] and Mary Montagu [aged 24]. He married (1) before 3rd December 1772 Elizabeth Bannister and had issue (2) before 29th June 1818 his fifth cousin Heneage Finch Lady Osborn, daughter of Daniel Finch 8th Earl Winchilsea 3rd Earl Nottingham and Mary Palmer Countess Winchelsea and Nottingham.

Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses

Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.

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On 10th May 1765 Abraham Crichton 2nd Earl Erne was born to John Crichton 1st Earl Erne [aged 34] and Mary Caroline Hervey Countess Erne [aged 12].

On 10th May 1765 John Rodney was born to George Brydges Rodney 1st Baron Rodney [aged 47]. He married 19th October 1799 Louisa Martha Stratford, daughter of John Stratford 3rd Earl Aldborough and Elizabeth Hamilton Countess Aldborough.

On 10th May 1766 Richard Meade 2nd Earl Clanwiliam was born to John Meade 1st Earl of Clanwilliam [aged 22] and Theodosia Magill Countess Clanwilliam [aged 22].

On 10th May 1769 Joseph Copley 3rd Baronet was born to Joseph Moyle aka Copley 1st Baronet [aged 54] and Mary Buller Lady Copley [aged 41]. He married 23rd May 1799 Cecil Hamilton Marchioness Abercorn and had issue.

On 10th May 1787 Edward Boscawen 1st Earl Falmouth was born to George Evelyn Boscawen 3rd Viscount Falmouth [aged 29]. He married 27th August 1810 Anne Frances Bankes Countess Falmouth and had issue.

On 10th May 1800 Rowland Hill 2nd Viscount Hill was born to Colonel John Hill [aged 30]. He married 21st July 1821 Anne Clegg Viscoutess Hill and had issue.

On 10th May 1800 Henry Richard Paston-Bedingfeld 6th Baronet was born to Richard Bedingfeld 5th Baronet [aged 32] and Charlotte Georgiana Jerningam [aged 32]. He a great x 4 grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 30th August 1826 Margaret Paston Lady Paston-Bedingfield and had issue.

Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses

Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.

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On 10th May 1806 Louisa Elizabeth Somerset was born to Henry Charles Somerset 6th Duke Beaufort [aged 39] and Charlotte Sophia Leveson-Gower Duchess Beaufort [aged 35]. She married 22nd October 1832 her fifth cousin once removed George Finch, son of George Finch 9th Earl Winchilsea 4th Earl Nottingham, and had issue.

On 10th May 1818 George Talbot Bridges 8th Baronet was born to Brook Edward Bridges [aged 39] and Harriet Foote [aged 27].

On 10th May 1819 Lieutenant-General Arthur Cavendish Bentinck was born to Charles Cavendish-Bentinck [aged 38] and Anne Wellesley Lady Abdy [aged 31]. He married (1) 18th February 1857 Elizabeth Sophia Hawkins Whitshed and had issue (2) 10th June 1862 Augusta Mary Elizabeth Browne 1st Baroness Bolsover and had issue.

On 10th May 1837 Edmund Robert Spearman was born to Alexander Spearman 1st Baronet [aged 43]. He married 1859 Maria Louisa FitzMaurice, daughter of Thomas Fitzmaurice 5th Earl Orkney and Isabella Irby Countess Orkney.

On 10th May 1847 Charlotte June Cole was born to William Willoughby Cole 3rd Earl Enniskillen [aged 40] and Jane Casamaijor Countess Enniskillen.

On 10th May 1854 Henry de Vere Vane 9th Baron Barnard was born to Henry Morgan Vane [aged 45] and Louisa Farrer [aged 37]. He married 28th June 1881 Catherine Sarah Cecil Baroness Barnard, daughter of William Alleyne Cecil 3rd Marquess Exeter, and had issue.

Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke

Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.

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On 10th May 1862 Vere Isham 11th Baronet was born to John Vere Isham [aged 59].

On 10th May 1863 Frederick Law Williams 7th Baronet was born to Frederick Martin Williams 2nd Baronet [aged 33] and Mary Christian Law Lady Williams.

On 10th May 1874 Hugh Matthew Fiennes Croft 12th Baronet was born to Herbert George Denman Croft 9th Baronet [aged 35] and Georgiana Marsh Lady Croft [aged 29].

On 10th May 1885 Bernard Fitzalan Howard 3rd Baron Howard was born to Francis Edward Fitzalan Howard 2nd Baron Howard [aged 26] and Clara Louisa Greenwood Baroness Howard. He married 5th September 1914 Mona Stapleton 11th Baroness Beaumont and Baroness Howard, daughter of Miles Stapleton 10th Baron Beaumont, and had issue.

On 10th May 1905 Oliver Malcolm Wallop was born to Oliver Wallop 8th Earl of Portsmouth [aged 44].

On 10th May 1907 Victoria Oliphant Baroness Vivian was born to Captain Henry Gerard Laurence Oliphant. She married 8th March 1930 Anthony Vivian 5th Baron Vivian, son of George Vivian 4th Baron Vivian and Barbara Cicely Fanning Baroness Vivian, and had issue.

On 10th May 1907 Alfonso Bourbon was born to Alfonso XIII King Spain [aged 20] and Victoria Eugénie Mountbatten Queen Consort Spain [aged 19]. He a great grandson of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. He married (1) 21st June 1933 Edelmira Sampedro (2) 3rd July 1937 Marta Esther Rocafort Altuzarra.

On 10th May 1937 Aline Margaret Bruce Countesss Wharncliffe was born to Robert Fernie Dunlop Bruce. She married 25th July 1957 Alan Montagu Stuart-Wortley-Mackenzie 4th Earl of Wharncliffe, son of Archibald Montagu Stuart-Wortley-Mackenzie 3rd Earl of Wharncliffe and Maud Lillian Elfreda Mary Wentworth-Fitzwilliam, and had issue.

The History of William Marshal, Earl of Chepstow and Pembroke, Regent of England. Book 1 of 2, Lines 1-10152.

The History of William Marshal was commissioned by his son shortly after William’s death in 1219 to celebrate the Marshal’s remarkable life; it is an authentic, contemporary voice. The manuscript was discovered in 1861 by French historian Paul Meyer. Meyer published the manuscript in its original Anglo-French in 1891 in two books. This book is a line by line translation of the first of Meyer’s books; lines 1-10152. Book 1 of the History begins in 1139 and ends in 1194. It describes the events of the Anarchy, the role of William’s father John, John’s marriages, William’s childhood, his role as a hostage at the siege of Newbury, his injury and imprisonment in Poitou where he met Eleanor of Aquitaine and his life as a knight errant. It continues with the accusation against him of an improper relationship with Margaret, wife of Henry the Young King, his exile, and return, the death of Henry the Young King, the rebellion of Richard, the future King Richard I, war with France, the death of King Henry II, and the capture of King Richard, and the rebellion of John, the future King John. It ends with the release of King Richard and the death of John Marshal.

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On 10th May 1943 Caroline Sheila Ley Countess Lowther was born to Gerald Gordon Ley 3rd Baronet [aged 40]. She married 4th December 1975 James Lowther 7th Earl Londsdale.

Marriages on the 10th May

On 10th May 1419 John IV Count Armagnac [aged 22] and Isabella Évreux Countess Armagnac [aged 24] were married. She by marriage Countess Armagnac. She the daughter of Charles III King Navarre [aged 58] and Eleanor of Castile Queen Consort Navarre [aged 56]. He the son of Bernard VII Count Armagnac and Bonne Valois Countess Armagnac and Savoy [aged 54]. They were second cousins. She a great x 5 granddaughter of King Henry III of England.

On 10th May 1505 Charles Bourbon III Duke Bourbon [aged 15] and Suzanne Bourbon Duchess Bourbon [aged 14] were married. She by marriage Duchess Bourbon. She the daughter of Peter Bourbon II Duke Bourbon and Anne Valois Duchess Bourbon [aged 44]. They were second cousins.

On 10th May 1606 Francis Bacon 1st Viscount St Alban [aged 45] and Alice Barnham Viscountess St Alban [aged 14] were married. The difference in their ages was 30 years.

On 10th May 1669 William Fitzwilliam 1st Earl Fitzwilliam [aged 26] and Anne Cremor were married.

On 10th May 1709 John Thompson 1st Baron Haversham [aged 61] and Martha Graham Baroness Haversham were married. She by marriage Baroness Haversham.

On 10th May 1767 Arthur Annesley 1st Earl Mountnorris [aged 22] and Lucy Lyttelton Baronet were married. She by marriage Baroness Altham. He the son of Richard Annesley 6th Earl Anglesey and Juliana Donovan Countess Anglesey.

On 10th May 1777 Charles Sloane Cadogan 1st Earl Cadogan [aged 48] and Mary Churchill Countess Cadogan [aged 19] were married. The difference in their ages was 29 years.

The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy

The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.

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On 10th May 1779 George Forbes 6th Earl Granard [aged 19] and Selina Frances Rawdon Countess Granard [aged 20] were married. She the daughter of John Rawdon 1st Earl Moira [aged 59] and Elizabeth Hastings Countess Moira [aged 48]. He the son of George Forbes 5th Earl Granard [aged 39] and Dorothy Bayly.

On 10th May 1782 Hugh Fortescue 1st Earl Fortescue [aged 29] and Hester Granville Countess Fortescue [aged 16] were married.

On 10th May 1824 Francis Vincent 10th Baronet [aged 21] and Augusta Elizabeth Herbert Lady Vincent [aged 17] were married. She by marriage Lady Vincent of Stoke d'Abernon.

On 10th May 1860 Abraham Solomon [aged 37] and Ella Hart were married.

Deaths on the 10th May

On 10th May 1290 Rudolf Habsburg II Duke Austria [aged 20] died at Prague.

On 10th May 1335 Isabel Courtenay Baroness St John of Basing [aged 52] died at Basing, Hampshire.

On 10th May 1342 John Beaumont 2nd Baron Beaumont [aged 24] was killed in a tournament at . His son Henry [aged 2] succeeded 3rd Baron Beaumont.

On 10th May 1380 Maud Holland 3rd Baroness Holand, Baroness Lovel [aged 70] died. Her grandson William succeeded 4th Baron Holand.

On 10th May 1390 Ralph Basset 3rd Baron Basset Drayton [aged 55] died. He was buried at Lichfield Cathedral [Map].

On 10th May 1403 Katherine Swynford aka Roet Duchess Lancaster [aged 52] died at The Priory, Lincoln Cathedral Close. She was buried in Lincoln Cathedral [Map]. The monument is thought to be the work of Henry Yevele.

"Katherine's fine tomb chest of Purbeck marble, with its moulded plinth and lid, had armorial shields encircled by garters along each side; it was surmounted by a canopied brass depicting Katherine in her widow's weeds, and bearing her arms impaled with those of John of Gaunt, while above it was raised a vaulted canopy with trefoiled arches, cusped lozenges and miniature rose bosses. The canopy and associated stonework would have been painted in bright colours."

When John Leland visited the Cathedral in about 1540, he recorded that: "In the southe parte of the presbytery lyithe in 2. severalle highe marble tumbes in a chapell Catarine Swineforde, the 3. wife to John of Gaunt Duke of Lancaster, and Jane her dougtar Countes of Westmerland".

In 1654 John Evelyn's Diary: "The soldiers had lately knocked off most of the brasses from the gravestones".

At some point after this the position of the two monuments was changed and they now stand end to end.

Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall

The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.

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On 10th May 1409 Joan Devereux 3rd Baroness Devereux Baroness Burnell [aged 30] died. Baron Devereux extinct.

On 10th May 1493 Colin Campbell 1st Earl Argyll [aged 60] died. He was buried at Kilmun Church. His son Archibald [aged 44] succeeded 2nd Earl Argyll.

On 10th May 1507 Elizabeth Talbot Duchess Norfolk [aged 64] died.

On 10th May 1536 Eleanor Copley Baroness De La Warr and West [aged 67] died.

On 10th May 1554 Bishop Thomas Goodrich died.

On 10th May 1619 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet [aged 46] died. He was buried at the Church of St James, Gawsworth [Map]. His son Edward [aged 16] succeeded 2nd Baronet Fitton of Gawsworth Hall.

Originally a canopied monument what remains of the canopy is fixed to the wall.

The inscriptions: A monumnt erected by the lady Ann Fytton to the memory of her deare husband sir Edward Fytton, baronet, who departed this life May 10, Anno Dom. 1619 et ætatis 47.

On the lower tablet:

Least tongues to future ages should be dumb,

The very stones thus speake above our tombe,

Loe two made one, whence sprang these many more,

Of whom a King once prophecy'd before: (Psa. 128)

Here's the blest man, his wife the fruitful vine, Lo

The children th'olive plants, a gracefull line,

Whose soules and body's beauties sentence them

Fittons to weare a heavenly diadem."

Edward Fitton 1st Baronet: On 3rd December 1572 he was born to Edward Fitton and Alice Holcroft. Before 1594 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet and Anne Barratt were married. On 2nd October 1617 Edward Fitton 1st Baronet was created 1st Baronet Fitton of Gawsworth Hall by King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.

Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet: In 1603 he was born to Edward Fitton 1st Baronet and Anne Barratt. Before 1631 Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet and Jane Trevor were married. After 1638 Edward Fitton 2nd Baronet and Felicia Sneyd were married.

On 10th May 1625 Anne Hopton Baroness Wentworth [aged 64] died.

On 10th May 1639 Miles Armiger died unmarried. Monument at St Withburga's Church, Holkham [Map]. Probably sculpted by Robert Pook who was an assistant to Nicholas Stone [aged 52].

Miles Armiger: he was born to William Armiger of North Creeke.

On 10th May 1679 Dorothy Coventry Lady Pakington [aged 56] died.

Annals of the six Kings of England by Nicholas Trivet

Translation of the Annals of the Six Kings of England by that traces the rise and rule of the Angevin aka Plantagenet dynasty from the mid-12th to early 14th century. Written by the Dominican scholar Nicholas Trivet, the work offers a vivid account of English history from the reign of King Stephen through to the death of King Edward I, blending political narrative with moral reflection. Covering the reigns of six monarchs—from Stephen to Edward I—the chronicle explores royal authority, rebellion, war, and the shifting balance between crown, church, and nobility. Trivet provides detailed insight into defining moments such as baronial conflicts, Anglo-French rivalry, and the consolidation of royal power under Edward I, whose reign he describes with particular immediacy. The Annals combines careful year-by-year reporting with thoughtful interpretation, presenting history not merely as a sequence of events but as a moral and political lesson. Ideal for readers interested in medieval history, kingship, and the origins of the English state, this chronicle remains a valuable and accessible window into the turbulent world of the Plantagenet kings.

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On 10th May 1684 Anne Carr Countess of Bedford [aged 68] died.

On 10th May 1709 William Hay 6th Earl Kinnoull died. His third cousin Thomas [aged 49] succeeded 7th Earl Kinnoull.

On 10th May 1726 Charles Beauclerk 1st Duke St Albans [aged 56] died at Bath, Somerset [Map]. He was buried at Westminster Abbey [Map]. His son Charles [aged 30] succeeded 2nd Duke St Albans, 2nd Earl Burford, 2nd Baron Heddington. Lucy Werden Duchess St Albans [aged 27] by marriage Duchess St Albans.

On 10th May 1751 William Heathcote 1st Baronet [aged 58] died. His son Thomas [aged 29] succeeded 2nd Baronet Heathcote of Hursley in Hampshire.

On 26th April 1755 John Chardin 1st Baronet [aged 67] died unmarried. Baronet Chardin of inner Temple in London extinct. He was buried at Westminster Abbey [Map] on 10th May 1755.

On 10th May 1761 James Colebrooke 1st Baronet [aged 38] died. His brother George [aged 31] succeeded 2nd Baronet Colebrooke of Gatton in Surrey. George was left in sole charge of the family bank in Threadneedle Street. He invested some of his wealth in buying control of the borough of Arundel where the family lived. Arundel was not a classic pocket borough, where the power to return MPs was literally tied to property rights that could be freely bought and sold, but a thoroughly corrupt one where bribery was routine and where maintaining influence of the elections required constant expenditure.

On 10th May 1762 Robert Montagu 3rd Duke Manchester [aged 52] died. His son George [aged 25] succeeded 4th Duke Manchester, 7th Earl Manchester, 7th Viscount Mandeville, 7th Baron Montagu of Kimbolton.

On 10th May 1774 Louis XV King France [aged 64] died of smallpox. His grandson Louis [aged 19] succeeded XVI King France: Capet Valois Bourbon.

On 10th May 1790 Mary O'Brien 3rd Countess Orkney and Inchquin [aged 69] died. Her daughter Mary [aged 34] succeeded 4th Countess Orkney. Thomas Fitzmaurice Earl Orkney [aged 47] by marriage Earl Orkney.

On 10th May 1799 Robert Clayton 3rd Baronet [aged 59] died. His first cousin William [aged 37] succeeded 4th Baronet Clayton of Marden Park in Surrey. Mary East Lady Clayton [aged 33] by marriage Lady Clayton of Marden Park in Surrey.

On 10th May 1829 Morris Robinson Montagu 3rd Baron Rokeby [aged 71] died. His brother Matthew [aged 66] succeeded 4th Baron Rokeby.

On 13th March 1834 Charles Philip Yorke [aged 70] died without issue one day after his seventieth birthday. On 10th May 1854 Harriet Manningham [aged 70] died. Both buried at St Andrew's Church, Wimpole [Map].

Framed inscription panel with achievement of arms, supported by consoles and surmounted by a sarcophagus, in various marbles, signed by Thomas Denman [aged 44].

The quote 'Et Nos Aliquod' appears to refer to Vergils Aeneid Paragraph 57 Sentence 4 "et nos aliquod nomenque decusque gessimus." meaning "I also had some name and respect".

Charles Philip Yorke: On 12th March 1764 he was born to Charles Yorke and Agneta Johnson. On 1st July 1790 Charles Philip Yorke and Harriet Manningham were married.

Harriet Manningham: On 21st June 1763 she was born to Charles Manningham of Thorpe in Surrey.

Memoires of Jacques du Clercq

This is a translation of the 'Memoires of Jacques du Clercq', published in 1823 in two volumes, edited by Frederic, Baron de Reissenberg. In his introduction Reissenberg writes: 'Jacques du Clercq tells us that he was born in 1424, and that he was a licentiate in law and a counsellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in the castellany of Douai, Lille, and Orchies. It appears that he established his residence at Arras. In 1446, he married the daughter of Baldwin de la Lacherie, a gentleman who lived in Lille. We read in the fifth book of his Memoirs that his father, also named Jacques du Clercq, had married a lady of the Le Camelin family, from Compiègne. His ancestors, always attached to the counts of Flanders, had constantly served them, whether in their councils or in their armies.' The Memoires cover a period of nineteen years beginning in in 1448, ending in in 1467. It appears that the author had intended to extend the Memoirs beyond that date; no doubt illness or death prevented him from carrying out this plan. As Reissenberg writes the 'merit of this work lies in the simplicity of its narrative, in its tone of good faith, and in a certain air of frankness which naturally wins the reader’s confidence.' Du Clercq ranges from events of national and international importance, including events of the Wars of the Roses in England, to simple, everyday local events such as marriages, robberies, murders, trials and deaths, including that of his own father in Book 5; one of his last entries.

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On 10th May 1876 Hugh Williams 3rd Baronet [aged 74] died. His son William [aged 31] succeeded 4th Baronet Williams of Bodelwyddan in Flintshire.

On 10th May 1893 Caroline Stapleton-Cotton Marchioness Downshire [aged 78] died.

On 10th May 1898 William Amelius Aubrey Beauclerk 10th Duke St Albans [aged 58] died. On His son Charles [aged 28] succeeded 11th Duke St Albans, 11th Earl Burford, 11th Baron Heddington, 8th Baron Vere of Hanworth in Middlesex.

On 10th May 1904 Philip Lancaster Brocklehurst 1st Baronet [aged 76] died. His son Philip [aged 17] succeeded 2nd Baronet Brocklehurst of Swythamley Park in Staffordshire.

On 10th May 1912 Beauchamp St John 17th Baron St John [aged 67] died. His son Henry [aged 35] succeeded 18th Baron St John of Bletso, 15th Baronet St John of Woodford in Northamptonshire.

On 10th May 1917 Robert James Graham 10th Baronet [aged 71] died. His son Montrose [aged 41] succeeded 11th Baronet Graham of Esk in Cumberland.

On 10th May 1980 Victor Basil John Seely 4th Baronet [aged 79] died. His son Nigel [aged 56] succeeded 5th Baronet Seely of Brooke in the Isle of Wight.