America and West Indies: June 1692

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 13, 1689-1692. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1901.

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'America and West Indies: June 1692', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 13, 1689-1692, (London, 1901) pp. 644-663. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol13/pp644-663 [accessed 25 April 2024]

June 1692

June 1. Adjourned, owing to the Governor's illness.
June 2. Two new members of Assembly were sworn. Sundry bills considered, with their amendments.
June 3. Several bills passed. Message from the Council to the Assembly, asking that the bill for enrolment of conveyances be made perpetual. The articles of impeachment against Lord Baltimore and the instructions to the Agents sent down to the house, with a request that they may be shortened. Order for adjournment of the Provincial Court to the 27th September. Further consideration of bills.
June 4. The bundle of laws sent by the Assembly read. Record of trial of a writ of error. Several bills considered. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 211–223.]
June 1.
London.		 2,250. Proprietors of West Jersey to Governor Fletcher. Dr. Coxe has sold us his interest in West Jersey, so we take occasion to congratulate you on your appointment, and to assure that we shall work with you in everything that is for the King's service. We have given orders that at present you shall hold chief command of all our militia. Signed. B. Hackshaw, Edm. Harison, John Jurin, Wm. Wightman, Dan. Coxe, James St. John, Mord. Abbott. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Received by Colonel Fletcher at Deal, 7 June, 1692; Recd. from him 9 June, 1692. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 107.]
[June.] 2,251. The Proprietors of East Jersey to Lords of Trade and Plantations. We have instructed the Governor of our Province to raise the militia, drill it, arm it and keep it in readiness. We have also ordered that if New York be invaded, as much of the militia as can be spared shall be sent to her help; but being advised that we have no power to force the militia to march out of New Jersey we dare not engage to promise any certain quota. Signed. Dan Coxe. 1 p. Undated. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 108.]
[June.] 2,252. Instructions of the Proprietors of East New Jersey as to the militia, in accordance with the preceding letter. Copy. 1¼ pp. Undated. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 109.]
[June.] 2,253. Identical instructions by the Proprietors of West New Jersey. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 110.]
June 2. 2,254. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for reimbursement of Charles Knight out of prize-money for the sums expended by him in the victualling of ships. Embargo laid on all ships from Europe. Order for purchase of powder and for the Commander-in-Chief to exert the powers given him by martial law.
June 3. Order for H.M.S. Swan to be manned and fitted out immediately. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 183.]
June 3. 2,255. Minutes of a Council of War at Barbados. Resolved that Captain Boteler, after convoying the merchantmen bound to the Leeward Islands as far as Antigua, shall convoy the merchant fleet to Europe. Petitions from two naval officers under arrest, rejected. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 279–282.]
[June.] 2,256. Address of the Mayor and Aldermen of Albany to the Commander-in-Chief of New York. We are reduced to great extremity by the long war, so much so that of 550 men that we had four years ago, we have but 290. The French had such success last year among the Indians, destroying many of their leading men and warriors, that the Indians are discouraged, complaining that they are fighting for our sakes, that we provide no force to secure ourselves and destroy our enemies, and that all the burden of war falls on them, whereas we ought to take our share; that we have never had above 200 men at Albany while they have often sent 800 at their own charge against the French, who seem now bent on destroying them or forcing them to peace. It will be impossible to keep a garrison here, or retain the Indians unless greater encouragement be given them. We therefore propose (1) That the garrison be increased to 400 men, of whom 200 for Albany, 50 apiece for Senectady, Half Moon, and Canastagione, and 50 to be always with the Indians. (2) That 100 Indians join with our 50 to act as scouts. (3) That the fort should be repaired, which will cost some £500. (4) That stores and bedding be provided for the garrison. (5) That sixty of the youth of the city and country, who know the woods, be kept in constant pay, for they are so impoverished that they must be maintained. (6) That the King be entreated to order the neighbouring Colonies to help us. Signed, P. Schuyler, Mayor, Dirck Wessells, Recorder, and by seventeen others. Copy. 3 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 6 Sept. 1692. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 111.]
June 6.
Albany.		 2,257. Propositions of Major Richard Ingoldsby to the Five Nations. I am come to shew my affection for you and to secure the place from the enemy's designs, and have ordered a considerable force to come here. You remember the agreement made last year with the late Governor, which was so far successful as to prevent the enemy's march into your country. We lost several men on that occasion and must blame you for not sending your people down the Cadaraqui River as you promised, whereby we had to meet the enemy with 250 men instead of 800. I grieve to hear of your loss at Cadaraqui last year, but it was your own fault, for had you proceeded to Cadaraqui with the number of men that you carried with you and not delayed for so long, the enemy would not have got wind of your coming, and you might have surprised the men who destroyed the small party that you did send. You must in future be more careful and expeditious. You have to do with a diligent enemy, and you must watch them and so pursue and alarm them in their own country that they cannot find a hole to creep in. I think of garrisoning the two outposts of Half Moon and Canastagione again, for it is shameful that small parties of the enemy should do us so much hurt so close to the town. How you came to neglect so weighty a thing in war as constant scouting near the lake I do not know. Were we as well acquainted and accustomed to the woods as you, not a day should pass but we should have scouts abroad. I hope that you will be careful on this point and report if the enemy makes the least motion on this side of the lake, that we may not be surprised. And since the enemy has shown us the way I must ask you to send constant parties to his country to injure and alarm him. I hear that the enemy has not forgotten his old trick of lulling you to security by talk of a peace. Do not trust them. Remember how perfidiously they murdered some of your people last year, after granting them quarter. It is our interest to prosecute this war. We grudge neither blood nor expense, and I must ask you to awaken your courage and be active. Our brothers in Virginia await only the King's order to join us, and meanwhile bid me renew their covenant with you. We hear that the Dionondadees have refused to join the French against the Senecas. This is good news, for if we can make friends with that nation it will weaken the French. Memo. There was given to the Five Nations 8 pieces duffles, 400 lb. powder, 700 lb. of lead, 15 dozen stockings, 6 gross of pipes, 100 lb. of tobacco, 72 shirts, 100 loaves of bread, 50 gallons of rum, one ox, two barrels of beer.
Answer of the Five Nations. A Sachem of the Oneidas spoke first. We thank you for coming and for strengthening this garrison. You must not accuse us of neglect nor blame us for your losses in the expedition to Canada last year. It was God's will, so let us not accuse each other, for the practice savours ill among friends. You speak of your losses but say nothing of the loss of the Maquas. The war has kept us so busy that we have been unable to come and condole with you. We are of one heart and one blood, so do not let us want for ammunition if you would have us maintain the war, and not make peace, as we might with advantage. You say that we can expect no peace with Canada so long as the Kings are at war in Europe. To show you the fidelity of us, who can be the only losers by the war, we thank you for that expression. We have not many men but will do our utmost to be revenged; though since the King is so inveterate against the French, we wonder that powder is so dear. We have never wanted powder more, or been less able to purchase it. We will go forth as you say and attack the French in their own country. We renew our covenant with Virginia, and hope that they will observe it and come to our aid shortly.
The Chief Sachem of the Maquas then spoke. I am surprised that among all the subjects of the King only Virginia offers to help us. How come Maryland, Delaware and New England to take no part in the war? Has the King sold them, or have they fallen from their obedience, or do they withdraw from the covenant, or does the King command that only this province shall carry on the war? Pray explain this mystery. How can we be brethren or fellow-subjects, if we are not engaged in the same war and render not the same obedience? How comes the enemy to burn the towns and destroy the people in New England without resistance? and how comes the King to make war and not destroy the enemy, when it is so easy, were we all united? Let the King command all his subjects to join with us, and it will not take a day's time to root the French out of America.
Another Oneida Sachem then spoke. You warned us just now of the perfidy of the French. You need not fear us: we will never hearken to them. But we have not been without our suspicions that you are inclined to a peace, the French having spread such reports abroad. We renew the old covenant, and thank you heartily for the ammunition, but what shall we do without guns? We cannot throw the lead and powder at the enemy. You used to give us guns. No wonder the Governor of Canada gains on us, for he supplies his people plentifully with guns and all necessaries. As to the Dionondadees, nothing has passed between them and the Senecas as nations, but only a transaction between two individuals; but we will embrace any opportunity of an honourable peace with them. We ask that the blacksmith's anvil may remain at Onandaga and that a smith may stay there to mend our arms. We beg you take care of our interpreter, for she is our mouth. 9 large sheets. Printed in New York Documents III., 840. [America and West Indies. 579. No. 22.]
June 6. 2,258. Minutes of General Assembly of Maryland. Order for the proceeds of the 14d. per ton duty to be put in bank till the King's pleasure be known. Orders for trials at the Provincial Court. Petition of Edward Gold, a white servant, for manumission, having served 20 years, through the cruelty of the ship's master who brought him out, without obtaining liberty. The witnesses named by petition were summoned to attend with all speed.
June 7. Several bills read, considered, and some sent down to the Assembly as passed.
June 8. Several bills considered. Order for Lord Baltimore's Agents to cease to collect the 14d. per ton duty. Sundry petitions received. Address of the Council and Assembly to the King, reporting that the articles of impeachment against Lord Baltimore are true, and praying that his accounts be examined as he has defrauded the country.
June 9. Message to the House of Assembly, stating that the gratuity proposed to the Governor is far too small; and that other matters of accounts require to be rectified. On a letter from Governor Fletcher sent down to the Assembly, the House replied that peace and war were matters for the King to decide. The Governor assented to the Acts of the Session. Adjourned to 20th October. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 221–233.]
June 7. 2,259. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Order for a proclamation inviting those whose property has suffered from the making of the entrenchments to attend the Commissioners. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., p. 297.]
June 8.
Deal.		 2,260. Sir Edmund Andros to the Earl of Nottingham. The two New York ships being arrived for the Downs, Colonel Fletcher and I hoped for orders to H.M.S. Wolf to proceed on our voyage, before sailing to convoy some ships to St. Helen's and then returning here. I beg your attention hereto. Signed. E. Andros. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 106.]
June 8. 2,261. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. The embargo removed from trading sloops. Order that no sloop pass the fort at night without sending a boat to give an account of itself. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 184.]
June 8. 2,262. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. The Representatives were sworn, and presented William Bond as Speaker, who was accepted.
The Council and four gentlemen of Middlesex took the oaths as justices of the peace. Debate on a proposed bill to refuse collection of Assessments granted by the late Government. John Phillips elected Treasurer.
Joint Committee appointed to revise the local laws.
June 11. Several gentlemen sworn justices of the peace. Bill to collect the arrears of taxes formerly granted, read a first time. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CXIV. pp. 331–333.]
June 9. 2,263. Petition of Dame Ann March to the Queen. I had an estate in Nevis which I was persuaded to surrender to my son, Colonel Philip Warner, now deceased, for an annuity of £400 a year. For eight years past no annuity has been paid. I beg that a special Court may be held for the trial of all actions that may be brought against the heirs and executors of Philip Warner, and that the Governor of the Leeward Islands be instructed accordingly. 1 p. In the margin. Order of the Queen referring the petition to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Nottingham. 9 June 1692. [America and West Indies. 551. No. 58.]
June 10. 2,264. Extract from a letter from Governor Kendall to William Blathwayt. The men-of-war having but just enough provisions to take them home, I have ordered the Mary and Assistance and St. Paul to convoy our merchant fleet to Europe. The Mordaunt will go to Jamaica and the Norwich to the Leeward Islands, the latter convoying the Duke of Bolton's regiment. The French have now four fourth-rate frigates at Martinique and expect a considerable squadron in November. If our squadron were here in October we might intercept them. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 305, 306.]
June 10.
Barbados.		 2,265. List of persons recommended by Governor Kendall to be of the Council of Barbados. John Read, a very honest gentleman, of good estate and well affected to the present Government. Tobias Frere, one of the best officers in the Island and of plentiful estate. Robert Bishop, an honest, brave gentleman with a fair estate. Samuel Farmer, colonel of the Horse-guards, and of considerable fortune. Abel Alleyne, colonel of a regiment of foot, a sobert, discreet gentleman of great estate. John Whetstone, deputy-secretary, a diligent man, who has honestly acquired a great estate. Signed. J. Kendall. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 13 Aug. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 81; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., p. 307.]
June 13. 2,266. Order of the Queen in Council. Referring the petition of the freighters of the ship Tiger to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. John Nicholas. ½ p. Enclosed,
2,266 I. The petition of the freighters of the ship Tiger. Our ship was retaken from the French by H.M.SS. Charles and Mary, and we therefore paid £600 to the captains and companies, as ordered. The ship however was plundered while at the Nore to the value of £3,000. We beg for restoration of the £600. Copy. 1 p. The whole endorsed, Recd. 15 Aug. 1692, and 3 May, 1693. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 2. Nos. 16, 16 I.]
June 13. 2,267. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Embargo on all shipping ordered. The Governor reported an Indian attack on Wells, and sent an order for a detachment of troops to be moved towards Piscataqua. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., p. 180.]
June 13. 2,268. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. Bill for collection of arrears and taxes read a second time.
June 14. Bill for collection of arrears passed. Bill to continue local laws till the 10th November read.
June 15. Bill to continue local laws passed. Bill to empower collection of arrears of town and country rates amended.
June 16. Bill to continue imports and excise read. Bill for collection of arrears of rates read again.
June 17. The Bill for a thanksgiving day passed. Bill for collection of rates passed.
June 18. Bill to continue imposts etc. amended. Bill prescribing a rule for public assessments debated. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 333–335.]
June 14. 2,269. Earl of Nottingham to Lords of Trade and Plantations. The Queen appoints Colonel Beeston to be Lieutenant-Governor of Jamaica, and wishes his despatches to be prepared. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. p. 50.]
June 14. 2,270. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for the ship Richard and Sarah to be taken up in lieu of H.M.S. Swan, disabled, and John Marshall commissioned as commander. Reginald Wilson's death reported, and Thomas Lamb appointed Naval Officer in his stead. Proclamation for the immediate restoration of goods stolen in consequence of the earthquake. Receivers appointed to receive the same, and empowered to decide disputes as to property. Order for John Bourden and Nicholas Lawes to secure provisions to be distributed among the poor and distressed in their precincts. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 184–186.]
June 15. 2,271. Minutes of Council of Barbados. On the Governor's motion, the Assembly brought in a bill to prolong the Act to raise labour for fortifications. Bill concerning John Kirton passed. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 298, 299.]
June 15.
Barbados.		 2,272. Abstract of an Act enabling John Kirton to sell land for payments of his debts. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 82.]
June 15. 2,273. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The business of Newfoundland considered. Ordered that no ship go thither without giving bond to go thither and not to the Colonies, and that a merchant of substance from the port of departure be one of the securities. The traders to Newfoundland to attend on the 17th inst. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. p. 102.]
June 16. 2,274. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for the sloop Neptune to be impressed for the King's service, and for H.M.S. Swan, which on survey has been cast, to be laid up. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 186.]
June 17. 2,275. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The merchants trading to Newfoundland attended and presented a memorial as to the convoying of their ships, and the security to be given to proceed thither direct. Their proposals ordered to be laid before the Queen. Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 103, 104.]
June 18. 2,276. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Letter to Lords of Trade and Plantations of June 20th and June 28th. (See No. 2278.) Charles Sadler took the oath as Provost Marshal. Order for impressment of the sloop Content to stop other vessels from leaving the harbour. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 187–194.]
June 18. 2,277. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Order appointing judges for probate of wills in the several Counties. Elisha Hutchinson, Jonathan Curwin, and John Walley appointed commissioners of impost and excise. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 180–182.]
June 20.
On board the
Richard and
Sarah.
Jamaica.		 2,278. The President and Council of Jamaica to Lords of Trade and Plantations. On the 7th inst., there was a dreadful earthquake which in ten minutes threw down all the churches, dwelling houses and sugar works in the Island. Two thirds of Port Royal were swallowed up by the sea, all the forts and fortifications demolished and great part of its inhabitants miserably knocked on the head or drowned. "As we are become by this an instance of God Almighty's severe judgment, so we hope we shall be of their Majesties' compassion." In the midst of this confusion we have applied ourselves to restoring things. We have taken the Richard and Sarah, merchantman, into the King's service, and sit ae die in diem in Council, protecting property, preventing robbery, deciding disputes, preventing quarrels too often arising from the uncertain right of things, in sinking floating carcases, taking care of the sick and wounded, and supporting the necessitous. All this must now be done out of the Country stock, all kinds of stores being lost in the ruin of Port Royal. We have set the masters of ships sounding a channel further up into this harbour, where we are like to have a situation equal to Port Royal in every way and exceeding Port Royal in its capacity to relieve the country or be relieved by it in case of invasion. We hope their Majesties will take thought for us, all open and exposed to enemies by land and sea. At land we are at this moment contending against a party of French who have landed to the north of the Island, but though we have sent a proportionate force against it by land and sea, yet heavy rains, earthquakes and gales have prevented us from giving a good account of it. Among other accidents of the earthquake H.M.S. Swan, which was lying at the careening wharf, was sucked among the ruins of Port Royal. She has lost her guns and rigging and on survey has been condemned. Could persuasions or even threats have prevailed with Captain Neville, the Swan had either been out of harbour or would have rid out of danger. Many of the guns of the forts are under two fathoms of water and are in danger of being lost. Our small arms are mostly damaged by the fall of houses, which makes us very apprehensive about the slaves. We beg therefore for relief and defence. Till we can fortify we shall want five men-of-war, four or five hundred soldiers, and arms and ammunition. Pray also let a Governor be sent us of care and charity equal to our needs, and let us point out that a tolerable choice may be made from ourselves till the office grow again to be fit reward for greater persons. Signed. John White, John Bourden, Peter Heywood, Sam Bernard, Nicholas Lawes, John Towers, Fra. Blackmore, Charles Knight, Tho. Sutton. Postscript. 23 June. H.M.S. Guernsey and the sloop have returned, having burnt the French ships and taken or destroyed the whole party except eighteen. Signed. John White, John Bourden, Peter Heywood, Nicholas Lawes, Charles Knight. The whole, 4 pp. Endorsed. R. Aug. 8 '92. [America and West Indies. 540. No. 21; and Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. pp. 47–50; and 77. pp. 187–188.]
[June 20.] 2,279. Address of the Council and Assembly of Maryland to the King. Thanking him for sending out a Protestant Governor. Signed, by ten members of Council and thirty-five members of Assembly. Large sheet. Endorsed. Presented by my Lord President at the Cabinet Council, 20 June, 1692. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 2. No. 77, and 8. pp. 53, 54.]
June 20. 2,280. Abstract of a letter from Governor Copley to the Lord President. Reporting his arrival after a very bad passage. He has heard that a commission has been sent to Colonel Nicholson to supersede him, which troubles him much. Board of Trade. Maryland, 8. p. 52.]
June 20. 2,281. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. Bill for a rule for assessments read a second time and committed. Bill for incorporation of Harvard College deferred to a fuller Council.
June 21. Bill to establish Courts read and debated.
June 22. Bill for a rule for assessments debated. Bill for a tax referred to a Committee. Bill for continuing imposts etc. read and debated.
Committee appointed to regulate the settlement of Brookfield Plantation. Bill for continuing imposts etc. debated.
June 24. Bills to continue imposts etc. and for a tax on polls and estates, passed. Commissioners appointed to administer the Act for imposts etc.
June 25. William Milbourne committed for scandalous writings. Harvard College Incorporation Bill again read. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV. pp. 335–337.]
June 21. 2,282. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for a Court Martial on H.M.S. Guernsey on the 28th, and that Fulke Rose and Francis Hickman be present. Order for purchase of victuals for the guard-ship, and for certain payments. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 194, 195.]
June 21.
New York.		 2,283. Joshua Brodbent to Lieutenant-Governor Francis Nicholson. Thank you for your letter. Sir William [Phips] is arrived, as you may see by their learned poetry, but the news that they have is, I hope, not pleasing to them since they keep it to themselves. I have, however, heard something from a good man who came from Boston and had heard Sir William make his speech. Part of the speech was that God had sent him there to serve his country and that he would not abridge them of their ancient laws and customs, but that all the laws, liberties and privileges that were practicable should be as before and should be maintained and upheld by him. Then he read his commission and letters patent, but when they were about half read he ordered it to cease as the Sabbath was begun, and he would not infringe the Lord's day; and he ordered all firing of guns and acclamations to be put off till Monday morning. On Monday morning the Council waited on him in the Council Chamber, and there was a debate of six hours whether the reading should begin where it was left off or be read de noro. The latter course was taken, because a good thing could not be too often read over. On the whole I find North and South Boston greatly divided and much dissatisfaction among them. I hear that most of the seamen are now away, and that when the press goes round for more the press-masters are knocked down at broad noon. Complaint was brought to Sir William who said that he would willingly be at rest, for he hears from his people that there will be another Governor shortly, so he will make his life as comfortable to him as he can. No doubt you have heard of the wizards and witches. There are now over a hundred of them in gaol, but they betray each other so fast that they say there are seven hundred in all. One Burrowes, a minister at Easter, is imprisoned for a wizard. Most are church members, elders and deacons. Mrs. Moody, Parson Moody's wife, is said to be one, and many more very creditable persons; but I believe that they are infatuated and that young Mather spoke truly in his sermon about two years ago, when he said that the old landlord Satan would arrest the country out of their hands. I think the devil is about beating the country and taking most of the people. Signed. Josh. Brodbent. I wish to come nearer to you and Colonel Copley. I was born within twelve miles of him. Here at New York we live like heathen. We have neither church, nor people, nor prayers, and scarce know when Sunday comes. If you can countenance me in any means to get bread and live quietly, I mean to move in the fall, and shall be very happy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Read 6 Sept. 1692, from Colonel Nicholson. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 112.]
June 21. 2,284. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Christopher Robinson sworn of the Council. Resolved that in the absence of a public notary all protests shall be made before the Lieutenant-Governor and Council. Order for the tobacco collected as revenue to be sent to London on Board H.M.S. Archangel, if possible. (pp. 711, 712.)
June 22. Order for the appointment of public notaries and that their fee be ten shillings for every protest. (p. 713.) Warrant issued for Captain Finch to impress a carpenter and obtain necessaries for careening H.M.S. Henry. (p. 715.)
June 23. Resolved to ask the Commissioners of Customs that the Collectors may be furnished with boats out of the penny per lb. duty. Resolved that the behaviour of John Custis in encouraging a ship illegally trading be represented to the Commissioners of Customs, he having given security to answer any charge against him; resolved also that for his contempt of the order to appear before the Council to answer for discouraging evidence in the case, he be suspended from all his offices and deliver up the records thereof. (pp. 713–715.) Order for Captain Finch to give in his report as to the roading of H.M.S. Henry and that he provide himself with seamen. Governor Copley's letter asking for the use of H.M.S. Henry read. Resolved that if she be really needed at Maryland, she shall be sent when ready, but with orders to return as soon as possible. (pp. 715–717.) A letter from William Cole to Lord Howard of Effingham, containing much abuse of the Lieutenant-Governor, was read. The Council disclaimed all knowledge of the letter, and on the Lieutenant-Governor's putting to them questions as to the charges therein, declared those charges to be false. Secretary Cole apologised for the letter as containing untruth. His resignation of his offices was then read and accepted. Christopher Robinson was appointed Secretary in his place, John Lear collector of Lower James River and Edmund Hill collector of Upper James River in John Lear's place. John Lear and Edmund Hill were appointed also collectors of the penny per lb. duty, pending confirmation by the Commissioners of Customs. Henry Whitinge appointed Treasurer in place of Edmund Hill; and Henry Hartwell appointed to the Council. Order for Secretary Robinson and Mr. Hartwell to consider a report as to the secure housing of the Secretary's records. William Edwards and Miles Cary were ordered to make a list of the Secretary's records. (pp. 717–725.) Order for the rangers to be continued and their places supplied by new men if necessary, for the militia officers to be on the alert, and for a report of proceedings on the frontiers to be sent to the government of Maryland. (pp. 729, 730.)
June 24. Captain Finch's orders of October, 1691, renewed. (p. 717.) Resolved to represent the hardships inflicted on inhabitants of the Northern Neck by Philip Ludwell, to Lords of Trade and Plantations. William Edwards's copy of the proceedings concerning the ship Society and a letter covering the same were approved. On the petition of Thomas Jarvis, transmitted from England for report thereon, the Council reported that they knew nothing of part of the matter of the petition but knew the rest to be false. (pp. 725–729.) On the question of the Indian trade, resolved to beg the King that it may be managed in the same way as in New York. Resolved to defer payment of Lord Howard's salary till the term of his office be known. Sundry warrants for payments signed. The 5th of July fixed for finishing the audit. The remaining ships for Europe ordered to be cleared. Order for proclamations as to the boarding of newly-arrived ships and as to the appointment of ports of entry. The question of quit rents deferred to next audit. (pp. 730–733.) [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.]
June 22.
Fort William
Henry.		 2,285. The Commander-in-Chief of New York to the Duke of Bolton. Since my last of 28 April nothing has occurred except that I have been obliged to repair to Albany in person with the readiest of the militia, on the alarm of French attack. I stayed there about a month and put the place into as good a posture of defence as the smallness of the force permitted. On my return to New York I met the news of the clamour and stir created by Leisler's fugitive relatives. I am sorry for the trouble to which you have been put on my account and most grateful to you. Their Majesties or the Council must be aware of the guilt of these rogues. If they could see the oppression and affliction endured by many good Protestant families by the barbarities of that traitor and his followers they would quickly confiscate their estates for their relief. Until Governor Sloughter's death I confined myself to the duties of my company, except that I was named in the Commission for the trial of Leisler. Since I assumed command I have meddled with nothing concerning the prisoners and have done my best to compose all quarrels. I have not had a farthing of my pay since I left England. £1,100 was sent to Governor Sloughter to pay the two companies, but this was converted by him to his own use, and £500 was advanced to him by our agent in England, for which I hear that our pay is stopped. Everything here is much dearer than in England, so I must leave the place or starve, now that the Government is given away. I make no complaint, but you know how faithfully I served the King in Holland and in Ireland. I beg for your assistance, and that if I be not appointed Lieutenant-Governor I may leave the place. I would sooner serve elsewhere in the meanest station than that my well-wishers here should see me exposed. Signed. Rich. Ingoldsby. 1½ pp. Printed in New York Documents III., 845. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 113.]
June 23.
James City.		 2,286. Copy of Minutes of Council of Virginia. Relating to the resignation of Colonel William Cole and the appointment of Christopher Robinson in his place. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 28 Nov., '92. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 107; and Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 204.]
[June 23.] 2,287. Petition of William Cole to the Lieutenant-Governor of Virginia. For leave to resign all his offices through age and infirmity. 1 p. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 108.]
June 23. 2,288. Clerk of House of Burgesses of Virginia to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Forwarding journal of the last session of the house. Signed. Peter Beverley. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 109.]
June 23. 2,289. President and Council of Jamaica to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Abstracted above, No. 2,278. 2½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 8 Aug. Abstract read 19 Aug. 1692. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 99.]
June 24.
James City.		 2,290. Lieutenant-Governor and Council of Virginia to Lords of Trade and Plantations. We have examined the allegations of the owners of the ship Society, and have found evidence that some of the goods on the ship were sold to the master, which was unknown to Colonel Cole who made the seizure of her. Colonel Cole's accounts show nothing placed to the King's credit for some of the condemned goods which were delivered to Lord Howard, who paid Colonel Cole £56, it is supposed as his third as informer. Signed Fra. Nicholson, Ralph Wormeley, William Byrd, Jno. Lear, Christopher Wormeley, Edw. Hill, Hen. Whitinge, E. Jenings, Chr. Robinson, Hen. Hartwell. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Sept., 1692. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 5. No. 8.]
June 23.
Boston.		 2,291. Increase Mather to the Earl of Nottingham. The charter has been most favourably received. The General Assembly has been convened at Boston, where I exhorted them to send an Address of thanks to their Majesties, which was unanimously passed. I have also told them how much they are indebted to you. Signed. Increase Mather. ½ p. Endorsed. R. Aug. 8, 92. [America and West Indies. 561. No. 7.]
June 24. 2,292. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for material for rebuilding of King's House, and for survey of 200 acres of Colonel Beeston's land in St. Andrews where the Council have resolved to build a new town. Order for appraisal of the impressed sloop Neptune. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 195.]
June 24. 2,293. Account of indigo imported to London from 25 June 1690, to 25 June 1691. Total, 196,386lbs., of which 173,897lbs. from English Colonies.
The same from 25 June 1691, to 25 June 1692. Total imported 194,118lbs., of which 185,923 from English Colonies. 1 p. Copy of the above. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. Nos. 100–101.]
June 24. 2,294. Duplicate copy of the Minutes of Council of Virginia, from 16 October 1691, to 24 June 1692. 49 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Sept. 1692. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 5. No. 9.]
June 27.
James City.		 2,295. Edward Randolph to Commissioners of Customs. In my last I informed you that I found the General Assembly sitting at my arrival and could not then begin my survey of the collectors as all of them were members of Council. The Lieutenant-Governor had seized the ships William and Mary, whose captain is an old offender. Colonel Custis, collector at Accomack, had admitted her to trade, though her papers were forged. I assisted at the trial, when the certificates were proved to be counterfeit, but the jury by special verdict referred the matter to your court. Colonel Cole, the two Wormeleys, and Jennings are also collectors, and the majority of the bench instead of giving judgment for the King allowed the master to sail, having given £500 security to answer the value of the ship and goods (which were appraised at £371 though worth £1,000) unless he procure a certificate from you that his papers were good. Hearing that two New England vessels were loading tobacco in the Potomac near Mr. Blakiston's, the collector's, house in Maryland, and that two ships were arrived in that colony from Scotland I hastened to Colonel Copley at St. Maries, and having had my commission from you registered, went to examine Mr. Blakiston's books. I met him a mile from his house and with some difficulty persuaded him to return. He excused himself from shewing his books and papers on the security given by these New England ships, saying that his clerk was away, but that he would give me full satisfaction at St. Maries. I went thereon to Mr. Plater, Collector at Patuxent River. He showed me a foul entry of some vessels made with him this year, but in no regular method. He said he had not the books and papers of the last collector, and could not get them without an order from me, which I gave him. On their being delivered to him he found several bonds and no certificates to discharge them; I ordered him to put fourteen of them in suit. I met Mr. Blakiston some time after at St. Maries. and in the Governor's presence asked to see the bonds of the two New England masters. He said they were in the Naval officer's hands, and I asked the Governor to order that the ships should not be cleared till I was satisfied in their security.
I then crossed to Somerset County, on the eastern shore of Maryland, and went to Robert King, the naval officer appointed in the late revolution. I found the ship Providence of London with forged certificates and the Catherine of Londonderry with irregular papers, both loaded with goods of Scotch manufacture. I seized them both, though Mr. Layfield, the local Collector, had signed their papers saying he believed that they were good. On the 30th of May I reported to the Governor at St. Maries that I had seized two Scotch ships, and a Court was appointed to try them. During my absence Mr. Blakiston cleared the two New England ships, which sailed ten days before I charged him with it before the Governor. He said they must admit what security the country afforded or take none. The Sheriff who mustered the jury for the Court was a Scotch Irishman and had returned a jury of known Scotchmen and their friends. The Court consisted of five members of Council, mostly very unfit for such a Court, and I prosecuted the Catherine first. But Major King opposed this, saying that the master had killed one of his sailors at sea and could not appear. I expected the mate to appear, but the Court deferred the case. I then proceeded against the Providence. One of his passengers, a Scotch minister, swore as to the illegal loading of the cargo. However one of the judges pointed out that Mr. Layfield had treated his certificates as good, and the jury, after a short examination of them, found for the defendant. I then preferred another charge against the master for illegal loading, but finding that the jury was to be the same as had acquitted the ship I gave it up; and I desired the Attorney General to put no bonds in suit pending further orders from England. The clearing of the William and Mary and the Providence after such evident frauds has encouraged the interlopers more than ever. I found Mr. Blakiston a great partisan of the Scotchmen in their cases, also Colonel Brown, one of the Council, and King the collector. They are great supporters of the Scotch trade, and Scotch ships have returned and cleared with Blakiston this spring. He told me he could give me no account of the King's money in his hands nor of large arrears due under the late Sovereign. The Governor told me that Blakiston's whole time was occupied by public affairs while the Assembly was sitting, but said that he would have him and Plater ready for me next time I came to St. Maries, or would send them to James City before the fleet sailed. I intend to take St. Maries on my way to New York, and inspect Blakiston's and Plater's books when I have inspected those of Virginia. I believe Layfield to be honest though ignorant, so have left him instructions for his guidance.
On my arrival in Virginia sundry people told me that their trade was ruined by the carrying of tobacco from the eastern shore of Maryland to Delaware, and by the importation of Scotch and Dutch goods into Maryland, and that there were vessels which had brought Scotch goods and were loading tobacco for Scotland direct. Accordingly on the 8th of June I went to Whorekill Creek and examined the papers of the deputy Collector, Nehemiah Field. I found forged certificates of a brigantine, the Rose. Thence I went to Newcastle, where the collector, Mr. William, was not at home, and thence to Philadelphia, to learn from Mr. Markham, Governor of the three lower Counties, how the officers had behaved. I learned that through the ignorance and neglect of Walliam and Field several vessels had arrived with goods not only from Scotland, but also from France and Holland, to the dismay of all lawful traders. Examining Walliam's books I found all in confusion. He is sottish with drinking, for he keeps an ordinary and does a great trade with merchants and masters who resort thither, but he leaves the King's business to any that will do it. I found that the Rose, hearing of my coming had left the Whorekill but four days before my arrival. I found several instances of forged certificates and irregular unloading. I asked for the money due to the King in his hands, and he said that he had sent away a good deal of money, though he could not remember when nor how much, but would get someone to help him. His books shewed but one entry of tobacco carried elsewhere than to England, but he said that he had more among his loose papers, which he could not find then, but hoped to get together soon. I shall go through his accounts on my way to New York. At my request Mr. Markham suspended both him and Field, and I appointed Mr. William Clarke, a capable man. Please send him a commission as Collector of West Jersey. I am satisfied that the trade of Newcastle is assured, and the Marylanders stopped from running their tobacco to Delaware.
The Assembly of Maryland have granted, among other things, two pounds to the Governor on every vessel trading in the province, he paying the Naval officer. I hear that he has continued King as Naval officer at Somerset County, a place pestered by hundreds of Scotch and Irish families. They have set up a linen factory there, encouraged by Colonel Brown, King and others, who support the interlopers, buy their cargoes and govern the whole trade of the Eastern shore. Formerly seven or eight English ships used to load tobacco yearly in these parts; but for the last three years there have not been five ships trading legally in these rivers, but nearly thirty sail of Scotch, Irish and New England. I enclose a forged certificate given by a Boston man; he has carried away 1,644 hogs-heads of tobacco in the last three years. Several more interlopers have agreed for their cargoes this winter, for Scotland and Holland direct; about twenty have sailed in the last eight months and the men-of-war have not taken one of them, though they have had opportunities. I have hastened here the more speedily to get the Providence and the Catherine seized by the frigate, if possible, and to give them notice of other suspicious vessel. I have arrested one master for breach of his bond, but as matters are managed at present in Maryland, I can do little with him. Colonel Copley, however, promises that it shall be different when he is settled in the Government.
When I return from New England in September I mean to lie aboard a man-of-war and speak all vessels entering and leaving the Capes, to stop the illicit traders. Governor Copley has appointed Mr. Plater naval officer at Patuxent, but it is a bad appointment, for he lives fifty miles from the places where the goods are entered and cleared. He is also charged with mismanagement, and I shall enquire into the matter and report. It has been the practice in Virginia to make Councillors naval officers when necessary, whereby Scotchmen and others have been admitted to trade without regard to the qualifications of the ship, etc. The appointment also of the same persons to be Collectors, Surveyors, etc., of Customs gives an opportunity for connivance at fraud in the remoter parts of the Colony. Were these offices managed by different persons, as in Barbados and elsewhere, the one would be a check on the other. Colonel Cole, on Lieutenant-Governor Nicholson's turning out Colonel Custis, Collector at Accomack, for mismanagement, petitioned to be dismissed from all public offices, which was granted, and Colonel John Lear, a Councillor, was appointed to succeed him. He is not well qualified for the office, however, for the district is full of little bays and requires much watching, the more so since Colonel Custis entertained all ships, even pirates, that paid him his unreasonable fees. Colonel Edward Hill is made Collector of Upper James River, where only London and Bristol ships load: Colonel Edward Jennings remains at York River and Ralph Wormeley at Rappahannock, which are not frequented by interlopers. But the Potomac, where Christopher Wormeley is Collector, should be better looked to, for besides other incapacities he lives fifty miles away. He keeps a deputy nearer the river and has books by which I can tell how many hogsheads a master swears that he has aboard. Wormeley goes once or twice a year to receive his share of the fees, but no one cares as to the qualifications of the ship and crew. All the Collectors are Councillors, but not one has duly authorised his deputy to do his duty properly. The Potomac is a river that requires careful watching, and a diligent person on the southern part of it will be a check on Blakiston. I suggest the despatch of three active, able men from England to be collectors in the Potomac, Patuxent and Somerset County. The office of Controller of Customs in these two provinces in no way contributes to the securing of trade. Mr. Philip Lightfoot in Virginia is a good man, but he only states the accounts of the Collectors and sees them swear to them once a year; and he lives on Upper James River, so cannot look after the trade. I recommend Captain Samuel Ravenscroft, an able and active man, for your commission to that office. Mr. Layfield, who is Controller in Chief for Maryland, lives quite out of the way at the head of the Potomac and has business enough as Collector, if you continue him therein, for I know no one to take his place. I recommend Colonel Charles Scarborough to succeed Colonel Custis as Collector at Accomack, and that he may also be appointed Controller. His house stands so that no ship can sail to Somerset County without passing by him. He knows all the tricks of interlopers, and gave me information as to them. These two will be a check on the other Collectors; but all help is too little to stem the illegal trade which has been encouraged by the ignorance of some officers and the countenance of others. Seeing the partiality of the Court at James Town in recent trials I propose the establishment of a Court of Exchequer with an able judge to try all cases relating to the Crown; and after experience of Maryland I should like to establish the like Court there; otherwise it is useless to seize ships and put their bonds in suit. Many of the bonds which I gave to the Attorney-General or which I keep myself have forged certificates, so that there is the same discouragement in proceeding against securities as against vessels illegally trading. At Glasgow they have false seals of the Custom houses of Whitehaven, Beaumaris, etc., and also blank certificates, some of which are so exactly filled up with fairly counterfeited hands that they deceive Collectors. These frauds, with the countenance of Scotch traders who keep stores to provide illicit traders, have gone on for years. Now every vessel runs into a different bay, so that it is endless work for a diligent officer to keep an eye on them, and he has nothing to satisfy him that the master has been trading legally but his oath. I think therefore that two or three places only in every trading river should be appointed by Order in Council for loading and unloading, which will help the officers of the Customs to do their duty. I have spared no pains to put all illegal traders to as much trouble and expense as possible. Copy. 10½ closely written pp. Endorsed. Read 6 Sept. 1692. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 110.]
June 27. 2,296. Draft Commission for Governor Fletcher as Governor of Pennsylvania. This commission empowers him to appoint a Council of twelve, any three of whom to form a quorum, and to draw out 700 men of the militia of East and West New Jersey. Minuted at the end. I have perused and approve this draft. Signed. Geo. Treby. Endorsed. Approved by Mr. Attorney-General 21 April 1692. Read 2 May 1692. Additions read and approved 27 June '92. Memo. in Entry Book. This Commission bears date 21 October 1692. Printed in New York Documents III., 856. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 114, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., pp. 403–418.]
June 27. 2,297. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Desiring the Lord President to lay the Commission described in the preceding abstract before the Queen. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., p. 418.]
June 27. 2,298. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Colonel Beeston's despatches as Lieutenant-Governor of Jamaica ordered to be prepared.
Report of Commissioners of Customs on the Acts of Virginia read (see No. 2,124). The Lords agreed on their report.
The business of the Newfoundland convoy considered. Ordered that the commander of the convoy take care that in future there shall be no trading to Newfoundland in foreign bottoms. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 104–107.]
June 27. 2,299. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. That the Acts for ports and for encouragement of manufactures be referred back to the General Assembly of Virginia for amendment, as suggested by the Commissioners of Customs, and that the Governor of Maryland be instructed to procure if possible the passing of a similar Act for ports in Maryland. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. pp. 167, 168.]
June 27. 2,300. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Recommending instructions to the Governors of Virginia and Maryland to procure the passing of a law for prohibition of export of tobacco in bulk. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 176.]
June 27. 2,301. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. Bill to erect a Naval Office read thrice and passed. Harvard College Incorporation Bill passed. Bill to enable the Governor to transport the militia to other provinces for six months, passed.
June 28. Bill to establish Courts of Justice passed.
June 29. After much debate, a Committee was appointed to consider the best means of supplying the wants of the province for prosecution of the war until the appointed taxes can be collected.
The Governor called for a full Council on 8th July. The means of obtaining a present supply was again subject of debate. Committee appointed to examine and adjust former accounts.
July 1. Bill to encourage the loan of bills of public credit, and making them current at five per cent. advance, read.
July 2. The aforesaid bill was passed. Order for printing the lists of General Assembly. [Col. Entry Book., Vol. LXIV., pp. 337–339.]
June 28. 2,302. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for £1,000 to be paid to Colonel Beeston for the 200 acres of his land. Order permitting ships to sail for London and New England. Order for the ship's company of H.M.S. Swan to be turned over to H.M.S. Mordaunt and H.M.S. Guernsey. Proclamation as to the new town, that inhabitants of Port Royal be given preference in taking up lots therein, and that powers are given to employ the negroes in St. Andrew's on work at the new town. The 13th of July set apart as a day of humiliation. The sloop Ann discharged from the service. Proclamation that since nothing but reformation and manners can stop God's avenging hand, the articles of war that relate to piety and the dishonouring of God are to be strictly enforced. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 195–197.]
June 28.
On board the
Richard and
Sarah
Jamaica.		 2,303. The President and Council of Jamaica to [ ?] Duplicate of the letter of 20th June (see No. 2,278). [America and West Indies. 540. No. 22.]
June 28. 2,304. The same to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Repeating the story of the earthquake, and entreating that the bills drawn on the Commissioners of the Navy, for victualling the frigates, may be taken up. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 192, 193.]
June 29. 2,305. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The traders to Newfoundland were heard in relation to the usual time of French fishing there. A letter to be sent to the Admiralty requesting that orders may be given to the Commanders of the convoy to seize all foreign vessels trading contrary to law with the English parts of Newfoundland. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. p. 107.]
June 30.
Customs
House.		 2,306. Commissioners of Customs to Lords of the Treasury. We have considered the proposals as to the founding of a College in Virginia (see No. 1,937). We have no knowledge of the quit rents or other branches of revenue in Virginia and Maryland except the penny per lb. on tobacco exported to the Colonies. This duty was imposed less for revenue than to prevent exportation of goods from Colony to Colony and so to foreign countries in Europe, evading the English customs. It has always been the object to restrain the shipping of tobacco and enumerated commodities to England (sic), and the whole presence of our Commission in Virginia and Maryland has consequently hardly paid its expenses. But were the duty well and truly collected, it might well bring in £300 or £400 over and above the cost of collection, besides the revenue by forfeiture of bonds, etc. If therefore the King make over this duty and the forfeitures for maintenance of the College, we offer no objection, merely observing however that the control of this revenue must remain in the hands of the English Treasury; but if the Governors of the College enforce stricter collection of the duty we propose that instead of three-fourths of the penny per lb., at present allowed to our Collectors, regular salaries shall be paid to them, and the tobacco collected in lieu of duty sent to England, where it shall pay duty, and be sold to pay the salaries; the balance, if any, to go to the object of the King's bounty. Signed. Rich. Temple, G. Boothe, Jo. Werden, Robert Southwell, Robt. Clayton, J. Warde, C. Godolphin. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. pp. 186–189.]
June 30.
Whitehall.		 2,307. Order of the Queen in Council. For letters to be prepared to the Governors of Virginia and Maryland, instructing them to procure the passing of a law for prohibition of export of tobacco in bulk. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 169.]
June 30. 2,308. Order of the Queen in Council. Order for the Acts for ports and for encouragement of manufactures to be returned to the Governor of Virginia for amendment by the General Assembly, in the manner proposed by the Commissioners of Customs; also that the Governor of Maryland be instructed to procure the passing of a similar Act for ports in that Colony. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. pp. 170, 171.]
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