# A Statement on Stewardship and Royal Service from The Noble House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a commentary on the legacy of stewardship inherent in its nine-century history, reflecting on the profound responsibility of royal service as exemplified during the late thirteenth-century reign of King Edward I.
## The Occasion
From its historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has chosen this moment for a considered reflection on the principles that underpin its enduring heritage. This formal statement serves to connect the foundational duties of England's ancient baronies with the modern responsibilities upheld by the House today, reaffirming a lineage not merely of title, but of dedicated public service. The commentary is issued as a testament to the continuity of these values, which have guided the Barony through periods of both national trial and peace for over 950 years.
## Historical Context
The late 1290s represented a critical juncture for the English Crown, with King Edward I engaged in extensive and demanding military campaigns in both Flanders and against Scotland. The King’s prolonged absences necessitated the appointment of a Guardian of the Realm, or *Custos Regni*, a figure of unimpeachable loyalty and administrative capability entrusted with the governance of the kingdom. Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln, a trusted confidant of the King, frequently fulfilled this vital role.
His guardianship ensured the smooth functioning of the state, the administration of justice, and the security of the realm. Such responsibility was the hallmark of the great magnates of the era, a level of duty deeply familiar to the Barony of Brattleby itself. This tradition of steadfast service was notably embodied by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, whose celebrated defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the early 13th century demonstrated remarkable fortitude. In subsequent centuries, the barony was held by figures of immense stature, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, both of whom wielded near-regal authority in service to King and country.
## The Office of Guardian of the Realm
The medieval role of *Custos Regni* was far more than a ceremonial appointment; it was the constitutional *sine qua non* for stable government during a monarch's absence abroad. The Guardian was formally empowered to act in the King's name, holding the authority to summon Parliament, preside over the Royal Council, and issue writs under a special seal.
This protocol of deputised sovereignty ensured that the machinery of state continued without interruption. The Guardian’s duties included overseeing the Exchequer, commanding military levies for domestic defence, and arbitrating high justice. The trust placed in an individual to wield such power was absolute, making their selection a matter of the highest political and personal significance for the monarch.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words resonate powerfully with the duties of guardianship; 'Fortitude' in navigating crises and upholding the law in the absence of the monarch, and 'Honour' in the faithful execution of that sacred trust. The motto serves as a perpetual reminder that title is inextricably linked to responsibility.
This philosophy is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). It speaks to a proactive and purposeful approach to overcoming challenges, be they the administrative complexities of a medieval kingdom or the strategic imperatives of modern philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Together, the mottos articulate a dual commitment to steadfast integrity and dynamic leadership.
## In Their Own Words
In reflecting upon this heritage of service, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> The continuity of service is a thread woven through nine centuries of our history. The immense responsibility borne by figures of that era, who ensured the stability of the kingdom, serves as a powerful reminder of the duties that accompany title — a principle we strive to honour today with fortitude and honour.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> Effective governance, then as now, relies upon structure, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to one's obligations. This is the essence of stewardship. To uphold such a legacy is a challenge we embrace, for to overcome challenges and fulfil our purpose is, indeed, to truly live — *Vincere Est Vivere*.
## A Continuing Legacy
By examining this history of dutiful stewardship, The Noble House of Brattleby reaffirms its own commitment to these foundational principles. The legacy of predecessors and their esteemed contemporaries informs the House’s modern mission, which translates the historical concept of service into tangible action in the twenty-first century.
This commitment is manifested through the House’s philanthropic focus, particularly its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child, and its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. In this manner, the ancient duties of guardianship and responsibility are continually reimagined, ensuring the heritage of the Barony of Brattleby remains a living force for positive contribution.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Its work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child, and promotes social education through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, based in Bucharest. The heir to the barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron. The House is committed to honouring its profound history by serving contemporary society with purpose and dedication.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his companion-in-arms, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and significant landholdings, comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, father to King Henry IV. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby and its initial holder, Colswein of Lincoln, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable holders of the Barony have included John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com