or, _Murivale_, probably from its connexion with the walls.
In reference to this it appears that in the early part of the 13th
century, the abbot consented that the two plats of ground between the
main road at the east end of the bridge should be left void for the
purpose of erecting defences in the time of war; hence Merivale
subsequently became matter of frequent contest between the Corporation
and the Abbey, as to the right of jurisdiction within it. This was not
finally settled until the dissolution of the monastery, when Henry VIII.
stating the “intimate affection” which he bears towards the town of
Salop, and his desire “to do and shew favour to the bailiffs and
burgesses,” grants that they and their successors may for ever enjoy all
the liberties, privileges, &c. within the limits of the Abbey Foregate,
including the hamlet of Merivale, in as ample manner as they were enjoyed
by the last abbot or his predecessors.
Leaving the National School to the right,