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 chilterns, 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.