53. Significavit: an ecclesiastical writ.
54. Within his jurisdiction he had at his own pleasure the young people (of both sexes) in the diocese.
55. Pardoner: a seller of pardons or indulgences.
56. Newe get: new gait, or fashion; “gait” is still used in this sense in some parts of the country.
57. Vernicle: an image of Christ; so called from St Veronica, who gave the Saviour a napkin to wipe the sweat from His face as He bore the Cross, and received it back with an impression of His countenance upon it.
58. Mail: packet, baggage; French, “malle,” a trunk.
59. The Bell: apparently another Southwark tavern; Stowe mentions a “Bull” as being near the Tabard.
60. Cheap: Cheapside, then inhabited by the richest and most prosperous citizens of London.
61. Herberow: Lodging, inn; French, “Herberge.”
62. The watering of Saint Thomas: At the second milestone on the old Canterbury road.