April 29, 1679, reign of Charles the Second. A manuscript religious certificate, on paper, in English: 'These are to certifie, Mr. Rob. Fenwicke of Bywell has, for these three monthes last past, frequently come to his Parish Church, and there decently, reverently, & devoutly behaved himself, all the time of prayers, & sermon. Rob: Simpson Vic:. Hen: Hinde Hen: Fforster} Church wardens.' 13.5cm by 10cm, mounted on a slightly larger piece of paper. This would have had a lot more importantance attached to its words back in 1679 than it would have today. Possibly required by Fenwicke prior to being married? Fold lines, but otherwise excellent condition, clear text. ____________ The manor of Bywell and Bywell Castle were owned by the Neville family in the 14th century but following the attainder of Charles Neville, 6th Earl of Westmorland for his part in the Rising of the North the Neville estates were forfeited and Bywell was sold in 1571 by the Crown to the Fenwick family._____________ Bywell is a strange place. There is no village, yet two churches right next to each other! It sits at the boundary of two Norman baronies in Northumberland. St. Peter's was actually the church of Bywell where the castle and Bywell Hall remain. St. Andrew's served the now non-existent community of Styford.____________________ PLEASE REALLY NOTE THIS: If this manuscript is to be sent outwith the UK, then following payment, I am lawfully bound to apply to the British Government for an export licence. I cannot legally send this overseas without a licence. The licence is free, and I will obtain it following payment. The department responsible for the licences states 21 working days for their issue, which is usually the case, but sometimes licences have taken up to 40 working days. Please do not let all this licence business put you off - it just means that you have to wait a while. All previous customers have all received their manuscripts - and many still had the export licence attached to the parcel since the Customs had not removed them. They make an interesting official accompaniment to the manuscript!

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