Martyr, born Faringdon, Berkshire, England; died Reading, England, 1539. Although he was usually called Faringdon, he bore the arms of Cook of Kent. Elected abbot of Reading, 1520, he enjoyed the special favor and friendship of Henry VIII. He served as a royal chaplain, sat in Parliament, and sang the requiem and dirge for Queen Jane Seymour. Refusing to surrender his abbey, he was accused of high treason and put to death with the priests, John Rugg and John Eynon. Beatified, 1895.