Only record of it in Normandy. And on his deathbed, the other way round. If he had done it publicly in '51, and left written records in England, I might go along with that. I don't think the Godwins could have wiped the archives that clean, as there were Normans with castles who could have kept documents for use when appropriate. (Actually, interesting point, in a time when people faked charters and so on, no-one has even come up with a fake will in William's favour- don't you think they would have?) But the legal situation was that the gift was not with the king, but with the Council, presumably on his advice.

Edward failed the country by not establishing a succession without any confusion. And we are still suffering the aftermath.

I was first taught history (aged 8) by a teacher surnamed Warren, who told us proudly that she was descended from de Warrene who came over with the conqueror. Next day, after going home excited by this info, I told her my dad would like his land in Sussex back, please. She didn't mind! I suspect, however, her name was more likely to refer to rabbit keeping. People like the du Sautoys, for instance have kept the spelling accurate, down two lines separate since the 11th century, and in a case where there would be confusion with the common throng, it is even more likely.

Penny