After days of prevarication, much as he wanted to avoid Bishop Ranulf, the moment had come for Prior Thurgot to seek an audience. The lack of fresh flowing water in the monastery had reached a point where the monks were growing exasperated. Money was sorely needed for work on a conduit, for the brothers had identified freshwater springs. After the translation of Saint Cuthbert’s remains in 1104, offerings had increased so the brethren felt now there were no financial restraints to stop funding for their water problem. It fell to the prior to take up the matter with the bishop.
“Your Grace, after the death of poor Brother Eolf, the brethren are restless and there are murmurings of neglect. Fresh water is a primary need and they see daily contributions to the cathedral thanks to the blessed
