The arrival of the friars in the late 12th and early 13th century posed a problem for the church. They were not under the control of the diocese as ordinary monks were so no one knew where they were and what they were up to. They also preached and offered the regular services of the catholic faith without being attached to a particular church. This meant the local vicar would have a rival for the income he might earn from preaching, burying the dead etc. Gradually the friars were placed under the authority of the bishops via a form of licensing. Here a new friar is "licensed" to operate around Somersham by the Bishop of Ely Simon Montacute. The friar in this instance is well educated having a degree in theology.