C5/11/91

Richard and Martha Ballard c. Agnes Gybbon, Robert and John Whitefield

Bill of Complaint of Richard and Martha Ballard, 22 May 1566,

Martha was one of the daughters of Thomas Whitefield and his wife Elizabeth, deceased. Thomas had various lands and properties in Wadhurst and Lamberhurst in Sussex. On 24 April 1553 Whitefield made his will and left all this property to Martha. He died about 13 years ago. Some of the property and land was surrendered for the use of Martha. Thomas and Elizabeth Whitefield also had a house and garden in Lewes, Sussex, which descended to Martha and her sisters, Mary and Susan after their deaths. But now all the deeds, charters etc. and the original will of Thomas are in the hands of Agnes Gybbon and Robert and John Whitefield and they have taken control of all the property except that in Wadhurst and Lamberhurst. Despite repeated requests, they refuse to hand over the documents.

 Answers of John Whitefield, no date,

Notes that the other sister, Susan Clarke and her husband, John, as well as the third sister, Mary, have also exhibited bills against the defendants. Is more than willing to surrender any documents.

 Answers of Robert Whitefield, no date,

Details of the property held by Thomas Whitefield on his death. As his brother, Robert drew up the will and gives details of this including provision for his mother, Agnes Gybbon who lived in one of the properties in Lamberhurst. She acted as guardian for the three girls (who were 1,2 and 4 on the death of their father). It was agreed that Agnes should receive the profits of the properties in Wadhurst and Lamberhurst for the use of the girls and now. Having married, Susan and Martha, receive the rents directly. Is willing to bring the papers into the court.