Grace Rayner promoted an ecclesiastical defamation cause against John Charlesworth junior of Birstall. Articles alleged whore and witch insults; Thomas Brooke and Timothy Askwith described hearing them, while Mary Williamson recalled Charlesworth saying he believed Grace was a witch. His personal answers declined to answer criminal propositions. On 29 March 1683 Henry Watkinson found the defamation case proved and ordered correction, reclamation or reformation of the words, and costs with assessment reserved. No performance of penance or payment is established. This cause is distinct from CP.H.4978 against the senior defendant.
Scope
All independent documentary units represented from eight saved images; partial legal readings and translations explicitly marked.
Editorial conventions
Expanded provisional transcription retaining source spelling, brackets for expansions and uncertain readings, and explicit descriptions of unread or cancelled writing. Such descriptions are gaps, not recovered text. English precedes each original. Paragraphs follow documentary clauses; physical line mapping is not certified. Image numbers are not folios. 10 January 1682 as written is retained alongside 1682/3 under the English legal year beginning 25 March. No unrecorded performance of sentence or payment is inferred.
Notes on the edition
Comparison of sources: Source coverage and limits
Four catalogued pieces are represented in eight saved repository images. Seven paired documentary units cover the articles, docket, personal answers, three depositions and sentence. Pale and contracted legal clauses, a cancellation in Brooke, and Mary’s altered header remain partly unread. Descriptive brackets identify gaps rather than recovered wording. The English rendering of incomplete legal articles is expressly partial. Manuscript John/Johannes differs from catalogue Jonathan; no identity merger with the senior defendant is made.
Opening: In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson [office and jurisdiction words not fully read]. These articles or injuries are submitted against John Charlesworth junior of Birstall, York diocese, in the promoted office cause of Grace Rayner, widow. [The full opening reservation and several formula lines remain untranslated because they are unread.] Article 1: The pleading invokes correction and punishment of those uttering abusive, insulting, scandalous and defamatory words injuring another's reputation and Christian charity. [The approximately eleven partly unread formula lines are not fully translated. This paragraph is a contextual rendering, not a replacement for those lines.] Article 2: A provincial constitution is invoked. One recovered clause concerns those who, from hatred, gain or favour, or any other cause, maliciously impute a crime to someone so that the person is defamed among honest and respectable people. [The title and surrounding requirements remain partly unread; this is a partial translation and no identification of the constitution is asserted.] Article 3: Grace Rayner is alleged to be an honest woman of good reputation and conduct before the defamation [qualification partly unread], and to have been openly, publicly and notoriously said, held, regarded, named and reputed as such in Birstall and neighbouring places. [Several clauses remain unread.] Article 4: Despite this, in April, May, June, July, August and September 1682, or one of those periods, John Charlesworth junior allegedly maliciously defamed and injured Grace in Birstall or neighbouring places. The pleaded English words are that he, speaking to and about Grace, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch. [The surrounding contracted formula remains partly unresolved.] Article 5 alleges subsequent acknowledgment of the words before trustworthy witnesses. [Pale clauses remain unread; this is a description of their function, not a full translation.] Article 6 alleges serious injury and diminution of Grace's good reputation among honest and respectable people, with further future injury likely. Article 7 pleads the defendant's Birstall residence and jurisdiction. Article 8 pleads public voice and reputation about the preceding matters in Birstall and nearby places. [Contracted closing formulas remain partly unread in each article.] Prayer: The promoter seeks lawful correction of junior Charlesworth and costs. [The complete prayer remains unread and untranslated.]
9 November 1682: personal answers of John Charlesworth junior to Grace Rayner's libel. To article 1 he refers himself to the sacred canons, if such exist, and otherwise does not believe it true in any respect. To article 2 he similarly refers to the provincial constitution, if such exists. To article 3 he does not believe it true. To articles 4 and 5 he believes that by law he is not obliged to answer because they are criminal positions. To article 6 he does not believe it true. To article 7 he believes it true. To article 8 he believes what has been believed and denies what has been denied. [Contracted header and one insertion remain unresolved.] Subscribed Wm. Savile and John Charlesworth.
10 January 1682 as written: Thomas Brooke of Cleckheaton, clothier, aged 40, produced, admitted, sworn and examined as a witness for Grace Rayner against junior Charlesworth. He has known Rayner sixteen years and junior Charlesworth twenty years. To article 4: In May last, on Cleckheaton green within Birstall parish, he heard John Charlesworth call Grace Rayner a whore and a witch. His fellow witness Mary Williamson was present, with others whose names he has forgotten, who did or might have heard this. He knows nothing further to depose. [One cancelled phrase remains unread.] To articles 5 and 6 he knows nothing to depose. He is not further examined on the rest [abbreviated ending uncertain]. Signed Thomas Brooke.
Timothy Askwith of Cleckheaton, about 26, likewise produced, admitted, sworn and examined. He has known Rayner six years and Charlesworth for the same period [contracted wording requires verification]. To article 4: In May last, as nearly as he remembers, he was present in Richard Blackburne's shop in Cleckheaton. Junior Charlesworth, speaking of Grace Rayner, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch and repeated this often. Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker were present and heard it. He knows nothing further. To article 5: He has since heard Charlesworth acknowledge and repeat the words several times. When this witness came to depose, Charlesworth told him that, for two pence, if he had occasion to go to York he would speak those words again. He knows nothing further. To article 6: Because of those words Grace's good name has been much hurt and she has lost standing among her neighbours [one abbreviated connecting term unresolved]. He knows nothing further. Timothy Askwith makes his mark.
The heading has been altered from a male-form name and occupation to identify Maria as a wife; the margin and altered grammatical endings are not fully resolved. The manifest identifies Mary Williamson, wife of John Williamson, clothmaker, aged 23. The witness signs by mark as Mary Williamson. The damaged/altered header must not be treated as two independent witnesses. She has known Rayner for seven months and Charlesworth for the same time. To article 4: About the latter end of last harvest year, as she remembers, she was in John Charlesworth's own house in Cleckheaton. Speaking of Grace Rayner, he said that he believed Rayner was a witch. She does not remember who was present. She knows nothing further. To articles 5 and 6 she knows nothing to depose. She makes her mark as Mary Williamson. The inserted 'yeare' is retained in the original text and not used to supply a precise date.
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
Image Title: CP.H.4978A Court: undefined Case: Defamation (sexual slander / witchcraft) Details: 4 Pieces; Has deposition; Has libel; Has sentence Outcome: plaintiff won Date: 9/11/1682 — 29/3/1683 Parties Mentioned: Office, plaintiff, undefined Jonathan Charlesworth [Charlesworth], defendant, male; junior Other individuals: Grace Rayner [Rayner], promoting parties, female; widow John Preston [Preston], prosecution proctor, male Robert Squire [Squire], defence proctor, male Witnesses: Thomas [Brooke], witness, male; 40 Timothy Asquith [Askwith], witness, male; 26 Mary Williamson [Williamson], witness, female; 23; wife of John Williamson, clothmaker Places: Liversedge (Birstall (YorkshireWestRiding)) - undefined
York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A, n.d., Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior., CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata · context
In Dei nomine Amen. Nos Henricus Watkinson [contracted qualifications] / [approximately four pale lines naming jurisdiction, not fully resolved] / Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis / Nos articulos Capitula sive Injurias omnia et singula a / infrascripto [unread contraction] omnium sua salvis ac in forma modo / reformacionem ex officio mero ad promotionem Gratiae Rayner / viduae [contracted clause unread] / [remaining introductory legal reservation, about four lines, not fully read]. [Subscription in left margin:] Hen Squire. 1. Imprimis [contracted formula] omnibus et eorum cuilibet Quod omnes et singuli qui convitia / vituperia contumeliosa scandalosa et diffamatoria ad / infamiam seu diminutionem status et bonae famae alicujus / [pale clause concerning malicious utterance and Christian charity, approximately four lines] / [clause concerning correction and punishment, approximately three lines] / salutarem ad [unread contraction] et animae [unread] et omnium / de tali modo et forma puni[unread] [remaining clause unread]. 2. Item [contracted formula] omnibus et eorum [unread] Quod fuit et est quaedam constitutio / provincialis [unread] titulata De omnibus [remainder of heading unread] / [unread intervening text] qui gratia odij lucri vel favoris aut alia quacunque de causa / crimen alicui malitiose imponunt unde apud bonos et graves / diffamatus sit [remaining provincial-constitution clause partly unread]. 3. Item [contracted formula] omnibus et eorum [unread] Quod dicta Gratia Rayner fuit et / est mulier bonae honestae bonae famae et conversationis integrae / [unread clause] videlicet infra diffamacionem [unread] / [contracted reservations] / [unread words] dicta tenta habita nominata et reputata palam publice et Notorie / in dicta parochia de Birstall praedicta alijsque locis vicinis Et [contracted closing formula]. 4. Item [contracted formula] omnibus et eorum [unread] Quod praemissis non obstantibus Johannes / Johannes Charlesworth junior spe temeraria ductus mensibus / Aprilis Maij Junij Julij Augusti et Septembris Anno domini 1682 / jam immediate [unread contraction] mensium sive Anni quolibet uno sive / aliquo infra parochiam de Birstall praedictam alijsve locis vicinis / malitiose et animo diffamandi et injuriandi eandem Gratiam / Rayner ipsam diffamavit et injuriavit nonnullaque verba / opprobriosa injuriosa scandalosa et diffamatoria adversus Gratiam / Rayner [contracted clause] et pluries / haec verba Anglice sequencia seu alia ejus in effectu consimilia / videlicet you this said John Charlesworth the younger speaking / to and of the said Grace Rayner said and reported (these / words) that the this said Grace Rayner was a Whore and / a Witch Et [contracted formula] de tali et tanto tempore loco modo et / forma verborum diffamatorum praedictorum [unread clause] / [formula referring to proof in due time and place]. 5. Item [contracted formula] Quod post praemissa omnia et / singula tu Johannes Charlesworth junior [pale clause] / [three pale lines alleging his acknowledgment that he spoke the words] / [clause about recognition before trustworthy witnesses] / [formula and reservation]. 6. Item [contracted formula] Quod post et per praemissa [unread] verba / diffamatoria praedicta status bona fama et opinio ipsius Gratiae / Rayner apud bonos et graves [unread] qui ipsam existimabant bonae / famae et opinionis [unread] graviter et enormiter laeduntur et / diminuuntur ac de verisimili plus laedentur in futurum Et / [formula]. 7. Item [contracted formula] Quod tu praefatus Johannes / Charlesworth junior es et eras de Birstall diocesis Ebor / ac sic [contracted jurisdiction clause] et [formula]. 8. Item [contracted formula] Quod de et super praemissis [unread] / et singulis fuit et est publica vox et fama infra dictam / parochiam de Birstall praedictam alijsque locis vicinis Et [formula]. Unde facta fide de praemissis quantum de jure / [prayer begins, approximately four pale lines on left and six on right: correction of junior Charlesworth and costs sought; complete wording not resolved]. Salvo jure [contracted reservation]. Et protestamur [contracted reservation].
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 2–3 (Latin and English)
9o Nov: 1682 [recording formula partly contracted] Hen: Watkinson Responsiones personales Johannis Charlesworth junioris [super?] positionibus et articulis alicujus libelli [contracted clause] per partem Gratiae Rayner contra eum dat[unread] et exhibit[unread]. Ad primam positionem eundem refert se ad Canones sacrosanctae [contraction unresolved] tales siqui tales sint Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad secundam positionem eundem refert se ad Constitutionem provincialem [insertion unread] siqua talis sit Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad tertiam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad quartam et quintam positiones eundem credit quod de jure non tenetur eisdem respondere quia sunt positiones Criminales. Ad sextam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad septimam positionem eundem credit eandem esse veram. Ad octavam positionem eundem credit credita negat negata. [Signatures:] Wm. Savile. / John Charlesworth.
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right (Latin)
10 Januarij 1682 Thomas Brooke de Cleckheaton in Com[itatu] Ebor[acensi] aetatis 40 annorum Clothier testis super positionibus et articulis ex parte et per partem Gratiae Rayner contra Johannem Charlesworth junior[em] dat[unread] et exhibit[unread] productus admissus juratus et examinatus et Primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sexdecem annos novit dictum Charlesworth junior[em] per viginti annos novit. [Margin:] Repetitus [provisional expanded reading] / Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last this Ex[amina]te upon Cleckheaton green within the p[ar]ish of Birstall [deleted: an unresolved phrase] heard the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth call the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Whore & Witch being then by and p[re]sent this Ex[amina]tes contest Mary Williamson and divers others whome this Ex[amina]te has forgotten who did or might have heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super reliquis non [unread contraction] Et [contracted ending]. Thomas Brooke
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right (Latin and English)
Timotheus Askwith de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] aetatis 26 annorum aut circ[iter] testis ut supra productus admissus juratus et examinatus et primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sex annos novit et Charlesworth praedictum [contracted word] tempore novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last as near as this deponent remembers he this party was p[re]sent in the Shop of one Richard Blackburnes situat in Cleckheaton when & where the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth junior speaking of the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Rayner said & reported that she was a whore & a witch & repeated the same often over being then p[re]sent Joshua Askwith Richard Blackburne John Walker whoe all heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit That he this Ex[amina]te has divers times since the speaking the words p[re]deposed heard the ar[ticula]te Charlesworth owne & speak the same words & especially when this Ex[amina]te came to depose in this cause he told him for two pence if he had occasion to York he would speake the s[ai]d words againe Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit that by reason of the s[ai]d words the good name of her the said Grace Rayner is much hurt & she the [contracted word] much lost amongst her neighbours Et al[ite]r nescit deponere Et [contracted ending]. his marke Timothy T A Askwith
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 (Latin and English)
[Margin:] Maria uxor [remaining contracted wording not fully read]. [Deleted:] Johannes [altered name: Williamson] de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] Clothmaker aetatis 23 annorum [unread contraction] testis ut supra product[unread] admiss[unread] jurat[unread] et examinat[unread] et primo de notitia partium [unread] dicit quod dictam Rayner per Septem menses novit dictum Charlesworth praedictum tempus novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That about the latter end of Harvest last [insertion:] yeare as this Ex[amina]te remembers she this Ex[amina]te was in the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth owne house situate in Cleckheaton where he talking of her the said G[race, altered] Rayner said that he beleived the s[ai]d Rayner was a witch whoe was p[re]sent this deponent remembers not Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Et [contracted ending]. her marke Mary m Williamson
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 6 (Latin and English)
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
Comparison of sources: Names and altered witness heading
The manuscript John/Johannes junior differs from catalogue Jonathan. Timothy Askwith appears as catalogue Asquith [Askwith]. Mary’s male-form heading was altered; her female name, grammatical endings and mark identify one deponent, not two. Her husband’s identification is catalogue-derived. Common names do not justify merging Blackburne with another case’s Blackborn.
The heading has been altered from a male-form name and occupation to identify Maria as a wife; the margin and altered grammatical endings are not fully resolved. The manifest identifies Mary Williamson, wife of John Williamson, clothmaker, aged 23. The witness signs by mark as Mary Williamson. The damaged/altered header must not be treated as two independent witnesses. She has known Rayner for seven months and Charlesworth for the same time. To article 4: About the latter end of last harvest year, as she remembers, she was in John Charlesworth's own house in Cleckheaton. Speaking of Grace Rayner, he said that he believed Rayner was a witch. She does not remember who was present. She knows nothing further. To articles 5 and 6 she knows nothing to depose. She makes her mark as Mary Williamson. The inserted 'yeare' is retained in the original text and not used to supply a precise date.
Timothy Askwith of Cleckheaton, about 26, likewise produced, admitted, sworn and examined. He has known Rayner six years and Charlesworth for the same period [contracted wording requires verification]. To article 4: In May last, as nearly as he remembers, he was present in Richard Blackburne's shop in Cleckheaton. Junior Charlesworth, speaking of Grace Rayner, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch and repeated this often. Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker were present and heard it. He knows nothing further. To article 5: He has since heard Charlesworth acknowledge and repeat the words several times. When this witness came to depose, Charlesworth told him that, for two pence, if he had occasion to go to York he would speak those words again. He knows nothing further. To article 6: Because of those words Grace's good name has been much hurt and she has lost standing among her neighbours [one abbreviated connecting term unresolved]. He knows nothing further. Timothy Askwith makes his mark.
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
Image Title: CP.H.4978A Court: undefined Case: Defamation (sexual slander / witchcraft) Details: 4 Pieces; Has deposition; Has libel; Has sentence Outcome: plaintiff won Date: 9/11/1682 — 29/3/1683 Parties Mentioned: Office, plaintiff, undefined Jonathan Charlesworth [Charlesworth], defendant, male; junior Other individuals: Grace Rayner [Rayner], promoting parties, female; widow John Preston [Preston], prosecution proctor, male Robert Squire [Squire], defence proctor, male Witnesses: Thomas [Brooke], witness, male; 40 Timothy Asquith [Askwith], witness, male; 26 Mary Williamson [Williamson], witness, female; 23; wife of John Williamson, clothmaker Places: Liversedge (Birstall (YorkshireWestRiding)) - undefined
York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A, n.d., Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior., CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata · context
[Margin:] Maria uxor [remaining contracted wording not fully read]. [Deleted:] Johannes [altered name: Williamson] de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] Clothmaker aetatis 23 annorum [unread contraction] testis ut supra product[unread] admiss[unread] jurat[unread] et examinat[unread] et primo de notitia partium [unread] dicit quod dictam Rayner per Septem menses novit dictum Charlesworth praedictum tempus novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That about the latter end of Harvest last [insertion:] yeare as this Ex[amina]te remembers she this Ex[amina]te was in the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth owne house situate in Cleckheaton where he talking of her the said G[race, altered] Rayner said that he beleived the s[ai]d Rayner was a witch whoe was p[re]sent this deponent remembers not Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Et [contracted ending]. her marke Mary m Williamson
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 6 (Latin and English)
Timotheus Askwith de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] aetatis 26 annorum aut circ[iter] testis ut supra productus admissus juratus et examinatus et primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sex annos novit et Charlesworth praedictum [contracted word] tempore novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last as near as this deponent remembers he this party was p[re]sent in the Shop of one Richard Blackburnes situat in Cleckheaton when & where the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth junior speaking of the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Rayner said & reported that she was a whore & a witch & repeated the same often over being then p[re]sent Joshua Askwith Richard Blackburne John Walker whoe all heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit That he this Ex[amina]te has divers times since the speaking the words p[re]deposed heard the ar[ticula]te Charlesworth owne & speak the same words & especially when this Ex[amina]te came to depose in this cause he told him for two pence if he had occasion to York he would speake the s[ai]d words againe Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit that by reason of the s[ai]d words the good name of her the said Grace Rayner is much hurt & she the [contracted word] much lost amongst her neighbours Et al[ite]r nescit deponere Et [contracted ending]. his marke Timothy T A Askwith
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 (Latin and English)
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
Comparison of sources: Date interpretation
Answers 9 November 1682 agree with the catalogue opening date. Depositions 10 January 1682 as written lie between those answers and sentence 29 March 1683; 1682/3 is an English March-year interpretation, not a Gregorian day conversion. May last and harvest last remain relative witness datings.
9 November 1682: personal answers of John Charlesworth junior to Grace Rayner's libel. To article 1 he refers himself to the sacred canons, if such exist, and otherwise does not believe it true in any respect. To article 2 he similarly refers to the provincial constitution, if such exists. To article 3 he does not believe it true. To articles 4 and 5 he believes that by law he is not obliged to answer because they are criminal positions. To article 6 he does not believe it true. To article 7 he believes it true. To article 8 he believes what has been believed and denies what has been denied. [Contracted header and one insertion remain unresolved.] Subscribed Wm. Savile and John Charlesworth.
10 January 1682 as written: Thomas Brooke of Cleckheaton, clothier, aged 40, produced, admitted, sworn and examined as a witness for Grace Rayner against junior Charlesworth. He has known Rayner sixteen years and junior Charlesworth twenty years. To article 4: In May last, on Cleckheaton green within Birstall parish, he heard John Charlesworth call Grace Rayner a whore and a witch. His fellow witness Mary Williamson was present, with others whose names he has forgotten, who did or might have heard this. He knows nothing further to depose. [One cancelled phrase remains unread.] To articles 5 and 6 he knows nothing to depose. He is not further examined on the rest [abbreviated ending uncertain]. Signed Thomas Brooke.
The heading has been altered from a male-form name and occupation to identify Maria as a wife; the margin and altered grammatical endings are not fully resolved. The manifest identifies Mary Williamson, wife of John Williamson, clothmaker, aged 23. The witness signs by mark as Mary Williamson. The damaged/altered header must not be treated as two independent witnesses. She has known Rayner for seven months and Charlesworth for the same time. To article 4: About the latter end of last harvest year, as she remembers, she was in John Charlesworth's own house in Cleckheaton. Speaking of Grace Rayner, he said that he believed Rayner was a witch. She does not remember who was present. She knows nothing further. To articles 5 and 6 she knows nothing to depose. She makes her mark as Mary Williamson. The inserted 'yeare' is retained in the original text and not used to supply a precise date.
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
9o Nov: 1682 [recording formula partly contracted] Hen: Watkinson Responsiones personales Johannis Charlesworth junioris [super?] positionibus et articulis alicujus libelli [contracted clause] per partem Gratiae Rayner contra eum dat[unread] et exhibit[unread]. Ad primam positionem eundem refert se ad Canones sacrosanctae [contraction unresolved] tales siqui tales sint Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad secundam positionem eundem refert se ad Constitutionem provincialem [insertion unread] siqua talis sit Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad tertiam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad quartam et quintam positiones eundem credit quod de jure non tenetur eisdem respondere quia sunt positiones Criminales. Ad sextam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad septimam positionem eundem credit eandem esse veram. Ad octavam positionem eundem credit credita negat negata. [Signatures:] Wm. Savile. / John Charlesworth.
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right (Latin)
10 Januarij 1682 Thomas Brooke de Cleckheaton in Com[itatu] Ebor[acensi] aetatis 40 annorum Clothier testis super positionibus et articulis ex parte et per partem Gratiae Rayner contra Johannem Charlesworth junior[em] dat[unread] et exhibit[unread] productus admissus juratus et examinatus et Primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sexdecem annos novit dictum Charlesworth junior[em] per viginti annos novit. [Margin:] Repetitus [provisional expanded reading] / Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last this Ex[amina]te upon Cleckheaton green within the p[ar]ish of Birstall [deleted: an unresolved phrase] heard the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth call the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Whore & Witch being then by and p[re]sent this Ex[amina]tes contest Mary Williamson and divers others whome this Ex[amina]te has forgotten who did or might have heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super reliquis non [unread contraction] Et [contracted ending]. Thomas Brooke
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right (Latin and English)
[Margin:] Maria uxor [remaining contracted wording not fully read]. [Deleted:] Johannes [altered name: Williamson] de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] Clothmaker aetatis 23 annorum [unread contraction] testis ut supra product[unread] admiss[unread] jurat[unread] et examinat[unread] et primo de notitia partium [unread] dicit quod dictam Rayner per Septem menses novit dictum Charlesworth praedictum tempus novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That about the latter end of Harvest last [insertion:] yeare as this Ex[amina]te remembers she this Ex[amina]te was in the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth owne house situate in Cleckheaton where he talking of her the said G[race, altered] Rayner said that he beleived the s[ai]d Rayner was a witch whoe was p[re]sent this deponent remembers not Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Et [contracted ending]. her marke Mary m Williamson
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 6 (Latin and English)
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
Comparison of sources: Scope of the judgment
The sentence finds defamatory words proved. It does not find Grace guilty of witchcraft and does not certify later compliance with correction or payment. The sentence’s proof formula must not turn Charlesworth’s procedural refusal to answer into a confession.
9 November 1682: personal answers of John Charlesworth junior to Grace Rayner's libel. To article 1 he refers himself to the sacred canons, if such exist, and otherwise does not believe it true in any respect. To article 2 he similarly refers to the provincial constitution, if such exists. To article 3 he does not believe it true. To articles 4 and 5 he believes that by law he is not obliged to answer because they are criminal positions. To article 6 he does not believe it true. To article 7 he believes it true. To article 8 he believes what has been believed and denies what has been denied. [Contracted header and one insertion remain unresolved.] Subscribed Wm. Savile and John Charlesworth.
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
9o Nov: 1682 [recording formula partly contracted] Hen: Watkinson Responsiones personales Johannis Charlesworth junioris [super?] positionibus et articulis alicujus libelli [contracted clause] per partem Gratiae Rayner contra eum dat[unread] et exhibit[unread]. Ad primam positionem eundem refert se ad Canones sacrosanctae [contraction unresolved] tales siqui tales sint Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad secundam positionem eundem refert se ad Constitutionem provincialem [insertion unread] siqua talis sit Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad tertiam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad quartam et quintam positiones eundem credit quod de jure non tenetur eisdem respondere quia sunt positiones Criminales. Ad sextam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad septimam positionem eundem credit eandem esse veram. Ad octavam positionem eundem credit credita negat negata. [Signatures:] Wm. Savile. / John Charlesworth.
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right (Latin)
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
Context: Reading testimony through legal procedure
James Brown’s discussion of York defamation treats testimony as mediated by memories, disputes and “the legal procedures of courts and clerks”. This is methodological context, not corroboration. Brown’s Richard Blackborn accusation concerning Grace belongs to another proceeding and is not transferred to this Charlesworth junior cause. Reference: Brown, Inner Lives,31 October 2016, Getting Sued By A Witch and paragraph beginning As is now well established; accessed 26 October 2026.
the legal procedures of courts and clerks
James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, 2016-10-31, James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, Inner Lives, 31 October 2016; section The Bewitching of Richard Malham and paragraphs beginning Mary’s husband, Although Mary, And saith, As is now well established and As is so often. Retrieved 26 October 2026., Brown 2016; paragraph beginning As is now well established · context
Comparison of sources: About this case and its sources
Reference: CP.H.4978A
Repository: Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York
Court: Watkinson’s vicar-general and principal-official jurisdiction as styled in sentence; catalogue court field undefined
Case: Office cause promoted by Grace Rayner for sexual slander and witchcraft defamation
Record dates: 9 November 1682–29 March 1683; depositions 10 January 1682 as written, interpreted 1682/3
Surviving material: Four catalogued pieces; eight images including covered and blank faces. Articles, answers, three depositions and sentence represented.
Languages: Latin legal text with English allegations and testimony
Parties: Grace Rayner, promoting widow; John Charlesworth junior, defendant [catalogue Jonathan]. Office is the procedural plaintiff, not another person.
Other people: Henry Watkinson, judge; Richard, Archbishop of York, judicial title only; John Preston and Robert Squire, proctors; Henry Squire and William Savile, subscribers; Thomas Brooke, Timothy Askwith and Mary Williamson, deponents; Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker, named hearers; John Williamson, Mary’s husband according to catalogue
Outcome: Grace’s case proved; correction, punishment, reclamation or reformation of words and costs ordered; assessment reserved. Performance or payment not established.
Coverage: Four catalogued pieces are represented in eight saved repository images. Seven paired documentary units cover the articles, docket, personal answers, three depositions and sentence. Pale and contracted legal clauses, a cancellation in Brooke, and Mary’s altered header remain partly unread. Descriptive brackets identify gaps rather than recovered wording. The English rendering of incomplete legal articles is expressly partial. Manuscript John/Johannes differs from catalogue Jonathan; no identity merger with the senior defendant is made.
Edition: 26 October 2026 version 1.0; available-source edition for review
Reading conventions: Expanded provisional transcription retaining source spelling, brackets for expansions and uncertain readings, and explicit descriptions of unread or cancelled writing. Such descriptions are gaps, not recovered text. English precedes each original. Paragraphs follow documentary clauses; physical line mapping is not certified. Image numbers are not folios. 10 January 1682 as written is retained alongside 1682/3 under the English legal year beginning 25 March. No unrecorded performance of sentence or payment is inferred.
Suggested citation: Grace Rayner against John Charlesworth junior, CP.H.4978A,1682–1683, reading edition version 1.0, 26 October 2026; Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York.
Image Title: CP.H.4978A Court: undefined Case: Defamation (sexual slander / witchcraft) Details: 4 Pieces; Has deposition; Has libel; Has sentence Outcome: plaintiff won Date: 9/11/1682 — 29/3/1683 Parties Mentioned: Office, plaintiff, undefined Jonathan Charlesworth [Charlesworth], defendant, male; junior Other individuals: Grace Rayner [Rayner], promoting parties, female; widow John Preston [Preston], prosecution proctor, male Robert Squire [Squire], defence proctor, male Witnesses: Thomas [Brooke], witness, male; 40 Timothy Asquith [Askwith], witness, male; 26 Mary Williamson [Williamson], witness, female; 23; wife of John Williamson, clothmaker Places: Liversedge (Birstall (YorkshireWestRiding)) - undefined
York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A, n.d., Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior., CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata · context
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
9 November 1682: personal answers of John Charlesworth junior to Grace Rayner's libel. To article 1 he refers himself to the sacred canons, if such exist, and otherwise does not believe it true in any respect. To article 2 he similarly refers to the provincial constitution, if such exists. To article 3 he does not believe it true. To articles 4 and 5 he believes that by law he is not obliged to answer because they are criminal positions. To article 6 he does not believe it true. To article 7 he believes it true. To article 8 he believes what has been believed and denies what has been denied. [Contracted header and one insertion remain unresolved.] Subscribed Wm. Savile and John Charlesworth.
10 January 1682 as written: Thomas Brooke of Cleckheaton, clothier, aged 40, produced, admitted, sworn and examined as a witness for Grace Rayner against junior Charlesworth. He has known Rayner sixteen years and junior Charlesworth twenty years. To article 4: In May last, on Cleckheaton green within Birstall parish, he heard John Charlesworth call Grace Rayner a whore and a witch. His fellow witness Mary Williamson was present, with others whose names he has forgotten, who did or might have heard this. He knows nothing further to depose. [One cancelled phrase remains unread.] To articles 5 and 6 he knows nothing to depose. He is not further examined on the rest [abbreviated ending uncertain]. Signed Thomas Brooke.
Timothy Askwith of Cleckheaton, about 26, likewise produced, admitted, sworn and examined. He has known Rayner six years and Charlesworth for the same period [contracted wording requires verification]. To article 4: In May last, as nearly as he remembers, he was present in Richard Blackburne's shop in Cleckheaton. Junior Charlesworth, speaking of Grace Rayner, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch and repeated this often. Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker were present and heard it. He knows nothing further. To article 5: He has since heard Charlesworth acknowledge and repeat the words several times. When this witness came to depose, Charlesworth told him that, for two pence, if he had occasion to go to York he would speak those words again. He knows nothing further. To article 6: Because of those words Grace's good name has been much hurt and she has lost standing among her neighbours [one abbreviated connecting term unresolved]. He knows nothing further. Timothy Askwith makes his mark.
The heading has been altered from a male-form name and occupation to identify Maria as a wife; the margin and altered grammatical endings are not fully resolved. The manifest identifies Mary Williamson, wife of John Williamson, clothmaker, aged 23. The witness signs by mark as Mary Williamson. The damaged/altered header must not be treated as two independent witnesses. She has known Rayner for seven months and Charlesworth for the same time. To article 4: About the latter end of last harvest year, as she remembers, she was in John Charlesworth's own house in Cleckheaton. Speaking of Grace Rayner, he said that he believed Rayner was a witch. She does not remember who was present. She knows nothing further. To articles 5 and 6 she knows nothing to depose. She makes her mark as Mary Williamson. The inserted 'yeare' is retained in the original text and not used to supply a precise date.
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
9o Nov: 1682 [recording formula partly contracted] Hen: Watkinson Responsiones personales Johannis Charlesworth junioris [super?] positionibus et articulis alicujus libelli [contracted clause] per partem Gratiae Rayner contra eum dat[unread] et exhibit[unread]. Ad primam positionem eundem refert se ad Canones sacrosanctae [contraction unresolved] tales siqui tales sint Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad secundam positionem eundem refert se ad Constitutionem provincialem [insertion unread] siqua talis sit Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad tertiam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad quartam et quintam positiones eundem credit quod de jure non tenetur eisdem respondere quia sunt positiones Criminales. Ad sextam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad septimam positionem eundem credit eandem esse veram. Ad octavam positionem eundem credit credita negat negata. [Signatures:] Wm. Savile. / John Charlesworth.
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right (Latin)
10 Januarij 1682 Thomas Brooke de Cleckheaton in Com[itatu] Ebor[acensi] aetatis 40 annorum Clothier testis super positionibus et articulis ex parte et per partem Gratiae Rayner contra Johannem Charlesworth junior[em] dat[unread] et exhibit[unread] productus admissus juratus et examinatus et Primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sexdecem annos novit dictum Charlesworth junior[em] per viginti annos novit. [Margin:] Repetitus [provisional expanded reading] / Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last this Ex[amina]te upon Cleckheaton green within the p[ar]ish of Birstall [deleted: an unresolved phrase] heard the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth call the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Whore & Witch being then by and p[re]sent this Ex[amina]tes contest Mary Williamson and divers others whome this Ex[amina]te has forgotten who did or might have heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super reliquis non [unread contraction] Et [contracted ending]. Thomas Brooke
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right (Latin and English)
Timotheus Askwith de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] aetatis 26 annorum aut circ[iter] testis ut supra productus admissus juratus et examinatus et primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sex annos novit et Charlesworth praedictum [contracted word] tempore novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last as near as this deponent remembers he this party was p[re]sent in the Shop of one Richard Blackburnes situat in Cleckheaton when & where the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth junior speaking of the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Rayner said & reported that she was a whore & a witch & repeated the same often over being then p[re]sent Joshua Askwith Richard Blackburne John Walker whoe all heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit That he this Ex[amina]te has divers times since the speaking the words p[re]deposed heard the ar[ticula]te Charlesworth owne & speak the same words & especially when this Ex[amina]te came to depose in this cause he told him for two pence if he had occasion to York he would speake the s[ai]d words againe Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit that by reason of the s[ai]d words the good name of her the said Grace Rayner is much hurt & she the [contracted word] much lost amongst her neighbours Et al[ite]r nescit deponere Et [contracted ending]. his marke Timothy T A Askwith
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 (Latin and English)
[Margin:] Maria uxor [remaining contracted wording not fully read]. [Deleted:] Johannes [altered name: Williamson] de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] Clothmaker aetatis 23 annorum [unread contraction] testis ut supra product[unread] admiss[unread] jurat[unread] et examinat[unread] et primo de notitia partium [unread] dicit quod dictam Rayner per Septem menses novit dictum Charlesworth praedictum tempus novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That about the latter end of Harvest last [insertion:] yeare as this Ex[amina]te remembers she this Ex[amina]te was in the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth owne house situate in Cleckheaton where he talking of her the said G[race, altered] Rayner said that he beleived the s[ai]d Rayner was a witch whoe was p[re]sent this deponent remembers not Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Et [contracted ending]. her marke Mary m Williamson
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 6 (Latin and English)
Comparison of sources: Edition references and source inventory
Findings and surviving sources
Primary source edition
Secondary discussion and source comparison
People and documentary events
Uncertainty and limits
page_01.jpg 1783 × 2612 pixels. Covered articles opening, duplicated in image2.
page_02.jpg 1739 × 2619 pixels. Articles opening and articles1–3.
page_03.jpg 3245 × 2583 pixels. Articles4–8 and prayer.
page_04.jpg 3303 × 2597 pixels. Docket left and answers right.
page_05.jpg 3289 × 2590 pixels. Blank left; Brooke and Askwith opening right.
page_06.jpg 3333 × 2605 pixels. Askwith conclusion and Mary Williamson deposition.
page_07.jpg 1703 × 2561 pixels. Sentence opening and proof finding.
page_08.jpg 3325 × 2619 pixels. Sentence conclusion left and blank right.
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; images 2–3
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; image 4 left
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; image 6
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Source coverage and limits: Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 2–3 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 4 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 5 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 7–8 | Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior.; CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata
Names and altered witness heading: Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 7–8 | Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior.; CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata
Date interpretation: Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 4 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 5 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Scope of the judgment: Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 4 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Reading testimony through legal procedure: James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, Inner Lives, 31 October 2016; Getting Sued By A Witch and paragraph beginning As is now well established. Retrieved 26 October 2026. Context only; its Grace Rayner and Richard Blackborn example is not treated as evidence of this junior Charlesworth cause.; Brown 2016; paragraph beginning As is now well established
About this case and its sources: Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior.; CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 7–8 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 4 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 5 right | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 | Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.; CP.H.4978A; image 6
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 2–3, CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; image 4 right, CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 7–8, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 2–3, CP.H.4978A; images 7–8
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; image 4 right
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; image 5 right
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 5–6
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; image 6, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata, CP.H.4978A; image 6
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 5–6
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 5–6
Evidence: CP.H.4978A; images 5–6
Office promoted by Grace Rayner against John Charlesworth junior
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening.
https://discover.york.ac.uk/collections/york-cause-papers/?manifest=CP_H_4978A&canvas=CP_H_4978A_0001
York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A
Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior.
https://discover.york.ac.uk/ark:/36941/CP_H_4978A/presentation/3/manifest
Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England
James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, Inner Lives, 31 October 2016; Getting Sued By A Witch and paragraph beginning As is now well established. Retrieved 26 October 2026. Context only; its Grace Rayner and Richard Blackborn example is not treated as evidence of this junior Charlesworth cause.
https://innerlivesblog.wordpress.com/2016/10/31/margaret-alcocks-evil-eye-witchcraft-defamation-suits-in-early-modern-england/
Image Title: CP.H.4978A Court: undefined Case: Defamation (sexual slander / witchcraft) Details: 4 Pieces; Has deposition; Has libel; Has sentence Outcome: plaintiff won Date: 9/11/1682 — 29/3/1683 Parties Mentioned: Office, plaintiff, undefined Jonathan Charlesworth [Charlesworth], defendant, male; junior Other individuals: Grace Rayner [Rayner], promoting parties, female; widow John Preston [Preston], prosecution proctor, male Robert Squire [Squire], defence proctor, male Witnesses: Thomas [Brooke], witness, male; 40 Timothy Asquith [Askwith], witness, male; 26 Mary Williamson [Williamson], witness, female; 23; wife of John Williamson, clothmaker Places: Liversedge (Birstall (YorkshireWestRiding)) - undefined
York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A, n.d., Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior., CP.H.4978A; saved manifest metadata · context
In God's name, amen. Henry Watkinson, lawfully appointed judge exercising the archbishop's jurisdiction, considers the merits and circumstances of the cause concerning scandalous and injurious words spoken by John Charlesworth junior of Birstall against Grace Rayner, widow, contrary to charity and Christianity. Grace is the promoting party and junior Charlesworth the promoted party. [The procedural recital and deliberation formulas in the marked gaps on image 7 are not fully translated.] The judge finds the promoter's case sufficiently and fully established and proved, with nothing alleged or proved to defeat it. He declares that John Charlesworth junior maliciously defamed Grace Rayner and uttered the pleaded insulting, abusive, scandalous and defamatory words to injure and diminish her good name and reputation, contrary to good morals and charity. He pronounces that junior Charlesworth is to be duly corrected and punished for that excess and compelled to retract and reform the defamatory words. He condemns him in the costs incurred and to be incurred by Grace in this cause and orders that he be lawfully compelled to pay them. Assessment of the costs is reserved to the judge or another competent judge. [Several contracted linking words remain unresolved; they are not supplied from the senior defendant’s sentence.] Hen. Squire. Read and delivered by Henry Watkinson, 29 March 1683.
9 November 1682: personal answers of John Charlesworth junior to Grace Rayner's libel. To article 1 he refers himself to the sacred canons, if such exist, and otherwise does not believe it true in any respect. To article 2 he similarly refers to the provincial constitution, if such exists. To article 3 he does not believe it true. To articles 4 and 5 he believes that by law he is not obliged to answer because they are criminal positions. To article 6 he does not believe it true. To article 7 he believes it true. To article 8 he believes what has been believed and denies what has been denied. [Contracted header and one insertion remain unresolved.] Subscribed Wm. Savile and John Charlesworth.
10 January 1682 as written: Thomas Brooke of Cleckheaton, clothier, aged 40, produced, admitted, sworn and examined as a witness for Grace Rayner against junior Charlesworth. He has known Rayner sixteen years and junior Charlesworth twenty years. To article 4: In May last, on Cleckheaton green within Birstall parish, he heard John Charlesworth call Grace Rayner a whore and a witch. His fellow witness Mary Williamson was present, with others whose names he has forgotten, who did or might have heard this. He knows nothing further to depose. [One cancelled phrase remains unread.] To articles 5 and 6 he knows nothing to depose. He is not further examined on the rest [abbreviated ending uncertain]. Signed Thomas Brooke.
Timothy Askwith of Cleckheaton, about 26, likewise produced, admitted, sworn and examined. He has known Rayner six years and Charlesworth for the same period [contracted wording requires verification]. To article 4: In May last, as nearly as he remembers, he was present in Richard Blackburne's shop in Cleckheaton. Junior Charlesworth, speaking of Grace Rayner, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch and repeated this often. Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker were present and heard it. He knows nothing further. To article 5: He has since heard Charlesworth acknowledge and repeat the words several times. When this witness came to depose, Charlesworth told him that, for two pence, if he had occasion to go to York he would speak those words again. He knows nothing further. To article 6: Because of those words Grace's good name has been much hurt and she has lost standing among her neighbours [one abbreviated connecting term unresolved]. He knows nothing further. Timothy Askwith makes his mark.
The heading has been altered from a male-form name and occupation to identify Maria as a wife; the margin and altered grammatical endings are not fully resolved. The manifest identifies Mary Williamson, wife of John Williamson, clothmaker, aged 23. The witness signs by mark as Mary Williamson. The damaged/altered header must not be treated as two independent witnesses. She has known Rayner for seven months and Charlesworth for the same time. To article 4: About the latter end of last harvest year, as she remembers, she was in John Charlesworth's own house in Cleckheaton. Speaking of Grace Rayner, he said that he believed Rayner was a witch. She does not remember who was present. She knows nothing further. To articles 5 and 6 she knows nothing to depose. She makes her mark as Mary Williamson. The inserted 'yeare' is retained in the original text and not used to supply a precise date.
In Dei nomine Amen. Auditis visis intellectis ac plenarie et mature discussis per Nos Henricum Watkinson legum doctorem [contracted office] Christo patris et domini domini Richardi providentia divina Ebor Archiepiscopi Angliae primatis et Metropolitani, Vicarium in spiritualibus generalem et officialem principalem legitime constitutum Meritis et Circumstantiis Causae sive negotii [contracted formula] sive prolationis quorundam verborum scandalosorum et injuriosorum per Johannem Charlesworth juniorem parochiae de Birstall Ebor diocesis et contra Gratiam Rayner viduam contra regulas Charitatis et Christianitatis; Quae sive quod coram nobis in judicio inter praefatam Gratiam Rayner partem promoventem ex una, et dictum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem partem promotam ex altera, jamdiu vertebatur vertiturque adhuc et pendet indecisa; Oblatisque Articulis per seu pro parte partem promoventem cum copia eorundem parti promotae [contracted words] [clause about answers, partly unresolved] [approximately four lines referring to procedural terms and the sentence day, partly unread] [approximately six lines naming John Preston and Robert Squire as proctors and the parties' request for judgment, partly unread] [approximately nine lines of deliberation formula, partly unread] Quia per actitata articulata deducta exposita exhibita narrata allegata probata pariter et confessata in hac Causa comperimus luculenter et invenimus dictam partem promoventem intentionem suam in dictis Articulis suis in hac Causa datis et exhibitis deductam et propositam sufficienter et ad plenum fundasse pariter [image 8 left continues:] pariter et probasse; Nihilque incontrarium allegatum aut probatum fuisse aut esse, quod intentionem dictae partis promoventis elideret seu quomodolibet enervaret, Idcirco nos Henricus Watkinson legum doctor Judex antedictus praefatum Johannem Charlesworth juniorem malitiose Diffamasse dictam Gratiam Rayner, ac nonnulla verba contumeliosa vituperiosa scandalosa et diffamatoria in hac Causa libellata ad infamiam laesionem diminutionem sive Diminutionem status bonae famae et opinionis dictae Gratiae Rayner protulisse et jactitasse contra bonos mores et Charitatem ad regulam Charitatis et injuriam dixisse asseruisse protulisse et praedicasse juxta probationes [unread contraction] in hac Causa habitas et factas pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus praefatumque Johannem Charlesworth juniorem pro tanto temeritatis suae excessu in dictis praemissis et ea concernentibus debite corrigendum et puniendum fore, ac ad reclamationem et reformationem dictorum verborum diffamatoriorum [unread contraction] cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus etiam decernimus et declaramus, Eundemque Johannem Charlesworth in expensis [unread contraction] ex parte et per partem Dictae Gratiae Rayner in hac Causa factis et fiendis condemnamus, Condemnatumque ad debitam solutionem earundem parti dictae Gratiae Rayner legitime cogendum et compellendum fore pronuntiamus decernimus et declaramus per hanc nostram sententiam diffinitivam sive hoc nostrum finale decretum, quam sive quod ferimus et promulgamus in hiis scriptis; Taxationem vero hujusmodi expensarum nobis aut alijs [altered word] Judici in hac parte competenti [unread contraction] reservantes et reservamus etiam in hiis scriptis. Hen Squire 29mo die Martij 1683 Lecta et lata per nos Hen: Watkinson.
9o Nov: 1682 [recording formula partly contracted] Hen: Watkinson Responsiones personales Johannis Charlesworth junioris [super?] positionibus et articulis alicujus libelli [contracted clause] per partem Gratiae Rayner contra eum dat[unread] et exhibit[unread]. Ad primam positionem eundem refert se ad Canones sacrosanctae [contraction unresolved] tales siqui tales sint Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad secundam positionem eundem refert se ad Constitutionem provincialem [insertion unread] siqua talis sit Et aliter non credit [unread contraction] esse vera in aliquo. Ad tertiam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad quartam et quintam positiones eundem credit quod de jure non tenetur eisdem respondere quia sunt positiones Criminales. Ad sextam positionem eundem non credit eandem esse veram in aliquo. Ad septimam positionem eundem credit eandem esse veram. Ad octavam positionem eundem credit credita negat negata. [Signatures:] Wm. Savile. / John Charlesworth.
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 4 right (Latin)
10 Januarij 1682 Thomas Brooke de Cleckheaton in Com[itatu] Ebor[acensi] aetatis 40 annorum Clothier testis super positionibus et articulis ex parte et per partem Gratiae Rayner contra Johannem Charlesworth junior[em] dat[unread] et exhibit[unread] productus admissus juratus et examinatus et Primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sexdecem annos novit dictum Charlesworth junior[em] per viginti annos novit. [Margin:] Repetitus [provisional expanded reading] / Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last this Ex[amina]te upon Cleckheaton green within the p[ar]ish of Birstall [deleted: an unresolved phrase] heard the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth call the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Whore & Witch being then by and p[re]sent this Ex[amina]tes contest Mary Williamson and divers others whome this Ex[amina]te has forgotten who did or might have heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super reliquis non [unread contraction] Et [contracted ending]. Thomas Brooke
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 5 right (Latin and English)
Timotheus Askwith de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] aetatis 26 annorum aut circ[iter] testis ut supra productus admissus juratus et examinatus et primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sex annos novit et Charlesworth praedictum [contracted word] tempore novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last as near as this deponent remembers he this party was p[re]sent in the Shop of one Richard Blackburnes situat in Cleckheaton when & where the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth junior speaking of the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Rayner said & reported that she was a whore & a witch & repeated the same often over being then p[re]sent Joshua Askwith Richard Blackburne John Walker whoe all heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit That he this Ex[amina]te has divers times since the speaking the words p[re]deposed heard the ar[ticula]te Charlesworth owne & speak the same words & especially when this Ex[amina]te came to depose in this cause he told him for two pence if he had occasion to York he would speake the s[ai]d words againe Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit that by reason of the s[ai]d words the good name of her the said Grace Rayner is much hurt & she the [contracted word] much lost amongst her neighbours Et al[ite]r nescit deponere Et [contracted ending]. his marke Timothy T A Askwith
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 (Latin and English)
[Margin:] Maria uxor [remaining contracted wording not fully read]. [Deleted:] Johannes [altered name: Williamson] de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] Clothmaker aetatis 23 annorum [unread contraction] testis ut supra product[unread] admiss[unread] jurat[unread] et examinat[unread] et primo de notitia partium [unread] dicit quod dictam Rayner per Septem menses novit dictum Charlesworth praedictum tempus novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That about the latter end of Harvest last [insertion:] yeare as this Ex[amina]te remembers she this Ex[amina]te was in the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth owne house situate in Cleckheaton where he talking of her the said G[race, altered] Rayner said that he beleived the s[ai]d Rayner was a witch whoe was p[re]sent this deponent remembers not Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit quod nescit deponere. Et [contracted ending]. her marke Mary m Williamson
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; image 6 (Latin and English)
Context: Twopence and the threatened repetition of words
Askwith’s account makes twopence part of a reported willingness to repeat the insult. No payment or use of money in magic is established. Compare the separate debt dispute in Tomlinson–Brown CP.G.2564 as a source-linked research lead; do not merge the transactions, assign a modern value or infer a penny-loaf equivalence.
Timothy Askwith of Cleckheaton, about 26, likewise produced, admitted, sworn and examined. He has known Rayner six years and Charlesworth for the same period [contracted wording requires verification]. To article 4: In May last, as nearly as he remembers, he was present in Richard Blackburne's shop in Cleckheaton. Junior Charlesworth, speaking of Grace Rayner, said and reported that she was a whore and a witch and repeated this often. Joshua Askwith, Richard Blackburne and John Walker were present and heard it. He knows nothing further. To article 5: He has since heard Charlesworth acknowledge and repeat the words several times. When this witness came to depose, Charlesworth told him that, for two pence, if he had occasion to go to York he would speak those words again. He knows nothing further. To article 6: Because of those words Grace's good name has been much hurt and she has lost standing among her neighbours [one abbreviated connecting term unresolved]. He knows nothing further. Timothy Askwith makes his mark.
Timotheus Askwith de Cleckheaton in Com[unread contraction] aetatis 26 annorum aut circ[iter] testis ut supra productus admissus juratus et examinatus et primo de notitia partium testis dicit quod dictam Rayner per Sex annos novit et Charlesworth praedictum [contracted word] tempore novit. Hen: Watkinson. Super quarto articulo praedicto dicit That in May last as near as this deponent remembers he this party was p[re]sent in the Shop of one Richard Blackburnes situat in Cleckheaton when & where the ar[ticula]te John Charlesworth junior speaking of the ar[ticula]te Grace Rayner Rayner said & reported that she was a whore & a witch & repeated the same often over being then p[re]sent Joshua Askwith Richard Blackburne John Walker whoe all heard whats deposed Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super quinto articulo praedicto dicit That he this Ex[amina]te has divers times since the speaking the words p[re]deposed heard the ar[ticula]te Charlesworth owne & speak the same words & especially when this Ex[amina]te came to depose in this cause he told him for two pence if he had occasion to York he would speake the s[ai]d words againe Et al[ite]r nescit deponere. Super Sexto articulo praedicto dicit that by reason of the s[ai]d words the good name of her the said Grace Rayner is much hurt & she the [contracted word] much lost amongst her neighbours Et al[ite]r nescit deponere Et [contracted ending]. his marke Timothy T A Askwith
CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A, CP.H.4978A; images 5–6 (Latin and English)
Reading register: Full reading edition held on the source record
The full English-first reading-edition body is supplied in the linked edition source’s full_text field. Original texts, English renderings, citations, uncertainty and source-layer distinctions are retained. This source is the project reading edition, not a newly recovered primary manuscript. Database storage does not by itself certify publication.
Rayner–Charlesworth junior · reading edition, Witching reading edition; prepared 2026-10-26; edition version 1.0; reading identifier rayner_charlesworth_junior-reading-v1. · context
People
- Grace Rayner: Promoting widow; articles plead good reputation and the sentence finds her defamation case proved.
- Henry Squire: Hen Squire subscribes articles and sentence; precise capacity remains qualified..
- Henry Watkinson: Doctor of Laws addressed in the libel and named in the procedural endorsement beside the personal answers dated 30 May 1678.
- John Charlesworth: Junior defendant named John/Johannes in the manuscript, Jonathan in the catalogue.
- John Preston: Promoter’s proctor named in the sentence..
- John Walker: Named by Timothy as present in Blackburne’s shop and hearing the words; no separate deposition supplied..
- John Williamson: Mary’s husband according to catalogue metadata.
- Joshua Askwith: Named by Timothy as present in Blackburne’s shop and hearing the words; no separate deposition or kinship inferred..
- Mary Williamson: Witness aged 23; altered heading and her mark identify a female deponent.
- Richard Blackburne: Named shopholder and hearer in Timothy’s account.
- Richard, Archbishop of York: Archbishop of York named in the judicial title.
- Robert Squire: Defendant’s proctor named in the sentence; separate from Henry Squire..
- Thomas Brooke: Cleckheaton clothier aged 40, knew Grace 16 years and junior Charlesworth 20 years.
- Timothy Askwith: Cleckheaton witness about 26.
- William Savile: Wm Savile subscribes answers; first-name expansion provisional..
Events
- 1682: Articles plead defamatory words during April–September 1682 at Birstall or neighbouring places; correction and costs sought. Pleaded reputation and alleged acknowledgment remain allegations, not witness findings.
- 1682-11-09: Answers dated 9 November 1682 deny the reputation and injury propositions, decline to answer articles 4–5 as criminal, and admit jurisdiction. This refusal is not an admission. (a documentary entry)
- 1683-01-10: Brooke reports insults on Cleckheaton green. Askwith reports repeated insults in Blackburne’s shop, later acknowledgment and reputational harm. Mary recalls Charlesworth saying at his house that he believed Grace was a witch. These are distinct recollections, not independent proof of witchcraft. Deposition date 10 January 1682 as written is interpreted 1682/3 under the English March-year chronology. (a documentary entry)
- 1683-03-29: On 29 March 1683 Watkinson finds Grace’s case sufficiently and fully proved, declares malicious defamation, orders correction and punishment and reclamation or reformation of the words, and condemns Charlesworth junior in costs, reserving assessment. No performed penance, retraction or payment is evidenced.
Sources
- James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, 2016-10-31, James Brown, Margaret Alcock’s Evil Eye: Witchcraft Defamations in Early Modern England, Inner Lives, 31 October 2016; section The Bewitching of Richard Malham and paragraphs beginning Mary’s husband, Although Mary, And saith, As is now well established and As is so often. Retrieved 26 October 2026. (scholarship) (later scholarship)
- CP.H.4978A manuscript, Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York, CP.H.4978A. Articles images 2–3; docket and answers 4; Brooke, Askwith and Williamson depositions 5–6; sentence 7–8. Image 1 is a covered view of the articles opening., Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York CP.H.4978A (court record)
- York Cause Papers catalogue CP.H.4978A, n.d., Saved repository manifest CP.H.4978A: four pieces; deposition, libel and sentence; plaintiff won; 9 November 1682–29 March 1683. Catalogue court field undefined. Catalogue names Jonathan Charlesworth junior. (catalogue)
- Rayner–Charlesworth junior · reading edition, Witching reading edition; prepared 2026-10-26; edition version 1.0; reading identifier rayner_charlesworth_junior-reading-v1. (edition)
Credit
Witches in Early Modern England research edition. Human editorial and review credits await confirmation.