In 1496 he received a pardon from King Henry VII which covered not only the murder of the priest but also that of Herthill 25 years before. It is possible that he was helped in this through the influence of Sir Edward Ferrers, who was to marry Nicholas’ daughter, Constance, the following year.
However, fearing for his immortal soul, having murdered a priest, he belonged to no fewer than eight religious fraternities by the time of his death. This ensured that the priests of those fraternities would pray for his soul.
Nicholas died “extremely humble and penitent” in 1517. In his will he asked that he be buried “Within the Church door as the people may tread upon mee as they come into the church”. His tomb is marked by a small tablet bearing just his name and the date 1517. Originally there was a marble plaque "whereon was a portraiture in brass of a man in armour” which was probably removed during restoration work in 1870. The tomb was opened and remains were found in an upright position.