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.