Administration
Derived from Dorset History Centre; Reference Number: Ad/Dt/A/1663
Date: 12th June 1663
Summary
Roger Fudge (a weaver of Stalbridge), with Johannem Janes? yeomanA freeholder or substantial tenant farmer, ranking above a husbandman but below the gentry. Yeomen held enough land to live... In full. of Stalbridge and Eg?dinm Steephens of Stalbridge, Taylore, are bound to the Archdeaconry Court of Dorset for £40, and Roger Fudge is obligated to administer and dispose the goods, rights, credits and chattels of Joane Chamberlayne late of Stalbridge Weston to the best profit and behoof and only during the nonage and minority of Thomas Fudge the Executor of the last will and testament. The responsibility includes making an inventory to be exhibited into the Registry of the Archdeaconry on or before the feast of Michael the Archangel next. Furthermore to bring up Thomas Fudge with goods and education and allowing him meat, drink, clothes and all other necessities until he becomes of age or marries.
Signed and sealed: Roger Fudge, John Jeanes, ?iles Stevenes
Witnesses: Elnathan Atkins, William Horlock
Sworn: 12th June before Johanna Douch surrogate
Note the discrepancies in detail between the three names bound to the Archdeaconry and the signatories.