In the case where property that is jointly owned by husband and wife is bequeathed by the husband to his wife for her lifetime and afterwards to go to some other legatee and his heirs (said legatee having no heirs, the property to be sold for pious uses for the benefit of the souls of the deceased husband and wife), if the wife has ratified the testament after her husband's death, or was its executrix, or in any other way can be shown to have consented to her husband's bequest, then she may have no future claim on the bequeathed property. If she subsequently denies or backtracks on that consent and claims right by joint acquisition, so as to assert ownership of the property contrary to the terms of the bequest, but if a record of her consent is found in the court rolls, then her right in the property may not extend beyond tenancy during her lifetime – if she makes any attempt to sell, give or bequeath it herself, that shall not be held valid.

[The application of bequests to benefit the testator's soul generally meant either charitable gifts or provision for priests (or others) to say prayers and celebrate masses for the testator – as well, often, as the souls of his wife, children and sometimes other kin, friends or benefactors (the king often being thrown in for good measure!). Wealthier testators might make provision for the foundation of a chantry for long-term celebration for their souls.]