Robert / Jenny Don't quote me on this one because I'm not 100% certain.. I think in the context of the 1545 Subsidy the term 'in bond' would effectively be a hangover from the old feudal system. Under the feudal system a Ceorl or Villein would be a freeman but would owe sworn allegiance to the Lord of the Manor. Although free, he would owe a bond of obligation to his Lord. This usually took the form of several days labour on the Lord's fields. I believe this practice continued in modified form throughout the 1500s. I guess it would be something to do with the fact that most of the land was held by their Lordships and that the majority of farmers were leaseholders. I wonder if it was common practice to include x days unpaid service as part of the terms of the lease? I agree with Roberts ideas but I think they may apply from say, 1650 onwards, at a period when more people were in employment rather than farming for themselves. Hope this makes sense. I would like to hear any other views. It would be nice to know how it all worked. Regards Sue Sissons