The monks, as usual, practising on the credulity of the people, grew rich, and obtained privileges and further wealth from various sovereigns; while the Pope conferred on their monastery the rights of a sanctuary, exemption from tithes, and the election of its abbot without the interference of king or bishop.  In 1539 there were within their walls thirty-two sanctuary men for debt, felony, and murder.  Unpleasant guests the monks must have found them, unless a thorough reformation had taken place in their characters.