Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 25 Mar 1694 (Creation)
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Manuscript
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Stephens was apprenticed to London Stationer and printer Thomas Ratcliffe on 5 April 1658. He completed his apprenticeship in 1666 and worked briefly as a journeyman printer. Stephens was elected to the Livery of the Stationers’ Company in 1682 to general outrage, in a move by the Stationers’ Company to manipulate Lord Mayor elections. He rose to notoriety as a 'Messenger of the Press', simultaneously serving the office of Secretary of State and enforcing the rights of the Stationers' Company to search and seizure. Midnight raids upon the premises of his colleagues, earned him the nickname of 'Robin Hog'. Stephens was known for his corruption, violence, and taking bribes. Stephens also served the Company as an all-round handyman. He was performing search and seizure duties from 1677, and first appeared with the title of Messenger in 1679. He was active as Messenger of the Press between 1679 and 1684, and again between 1689 and 1712.
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Scope and content
Itemised bill of Robert Stephens in the sum of three pounds ten shillings, 25 March 1694. Items include: his salary, paid the Bishop of London's porter for his Christmas Box, getting the psalms a catechism and a schoolbook licensed by Dr Lancaster with expenses and a gratuity to his man, spent on Dr Charlett's gentleman at several times. Received of Warden Phillipps and signed in receipt by Stephens. Personal names: Robert Stephens, William Phillipps, Henry Compton, William Lancaster, Arthur Charlett.
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Language of material
English
Script of material
Latin
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Existence and location of originals
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Open