Page 39 - link magazine

See us on the net Q www.swindonlink.com The Link Magazine • February 1999 39
A King's pardon for a
`barbarous and bloody murder'

Few people know that the St Johns of Lydiard Park were involved in
a notorious murder in the 17th Century but an ancient document
recently displayed in the State bedroom at Lydiard House is proof of
a bloody deed, writes Sarah Finch Crisp.
The document with its Royal seal them to the Globe Tavern along
and picture of King Charles 2nd is with Sir William Estcourt and oth-
a pardon which was given to Henry ers. Here an argument over horses
St John for his part in the murder broke out, and Henry aided by his
of Sir William Estcourt in a tavern cousin, stabbed William to death.
brawl in 1684. Henry was thrown into Newgate
Henry St John's interests, like gaol and convicted of murder but
many of his aristocratic friends, a pardon from the King secured
lay in horse racing and gambling. his release. The King it appears
He spent much of his time in Lon- was persuaded by the St John's
don's drinking dens where on one influential relations at court, and a see this pardon along with por-
fateful night in November 1684 he hefty sum of money, that mercy traits of Henry, who lived to the
and his cousin Edmund went on a should be shown. ripe old age of ninety, and his two
drunken spree which brought Visitors to Lydiard House can wives, as well as his cousin, the
King's mistress, Lady Castelmaine.
Spring flower displays
Are you looking for
13 - 21 February
The woodlands at Lydiard Park something a little
are well known for their beautiful different or unusual?
carpets of snowdrops in February. Ryans stock a constantly
This year a trip to see them will changing selection of
bring extra rewards as the house
itself will be filled with displays of Oriental, Ethnic and
perfumed spring flowering bulbs British furniture and gifts
arranged by floristry students from
Lackham College. Hot drinks and 14 Wood Street
cakes will be on sale in the main Did Town, Swindon
hall of the house during this pe-
riod. To check on exact snowdrop Tel: 01793 422522
flowering times, call 770401.

SALE EXT

Manor Cabinets plc, Kelvin Rd,
Greenbridge Ind. Estate, Swindon

Fi ne Han dlnad e Ki tchens
Also showrooms at Basingstoke, Farnham, Reading, Thatcham & Windlesham