CHILTERN Hundreds, Stewards of. Of the hundreds into which many of the English counties were divided by King Alfred for the better government, the jurisdiction was originally vested in peculiar courts; but came afterwards to be devolved to the county courts, and so remains at present; excepting with regard to some, as the chiltern, which have been by privilege annexed to the crown. These having still their own courts, a steward of those courts is appointed by the chancellor of the exchequer, with a salary of 20s. and all fees, &c. belonging to the office; and this is deemed an appointment of such profit, as to vacate a seat in parliament.