Anne: December 1703 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Anne, 1703-4. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1924.

'Anne: December 1703', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Anne, 1703-4, (London, 1924) pp. 219-252. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/anne/1703-4/pp219-252 [accessed 19 April 2024]

December 1703



1 Dec. Berwick.	Colonel Maine to [Nottingham?].
	I hear from Edinburgh that Mr. David Lindsay's friends are very cautious in saying anything about him. They now say that he left Edinburgh some days ago for London. If this be so, I suggest that, if you let the Earl of "Cromitty" know, he may, amongst his Scotch acquaintance, use means to find him out. I think that he is yet in Edinburgh and does not suspect that I have any directions concerning him. I shall continue my care on the borders to get him if he comes this way, and unless he goes by Carlisle, or by sea, I expect to give a good account of him.
	Pp. 1½. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 60.
1 Dec.	J. Thornhill to Lord or Lady Granville.
	Pray, dear nephew, speak to my Lord Nottingham that Mr. Bayley [Bailey] may remain in the messenger's house (where last Monday he surrendered) and not be sent to prison. He is old and infirm. He was formerly the Queen's servant, and lately petitioned for leave to come over and end his days in his own country. He is a sincere Protestant. I leave the rest to the bearer to inform Lord [or Lady] Granville. She is Mr. Bayley's own daughter and helps her father, like a good child, after your example. I hope Lady Granville will join in this request.
	Pp. 2 (small). (Hol.) Ill-spelt. (fn. 1) Add. to Lord or Lady Granville. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 61.
2 Dec. Sick and Wounded Office.	The Commissioners of Sick and Wounded to Nottingham.
	Our transports were ready to sail from Dover and Guernsey with French prisoners, but we have stopped them; for the seas are full of ships disabled by the late storm, to which the said prisoners may give intelligence. We shall expect your orders therein before we proceed.
	P. ¼. Signed by four Commissioners. Endd. S.P. Dom., Naval 118, 139.
2 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To [George] Clark.
	I send a case, which I cannot yet lay before the Prince's Council in form, as it has not been before the Queen, but it is so strongly recommended to me that I wish you may find it worthy of compassion.
	Note.—Enclosed a petition of the inhabitants of Whitby for the life of George Colthirst, now a prisoner at Lyn[n] for desertion.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 380.
	2. To the Prince's Council.
	I send enclosed from Mr. Atkinson, and, on it, am to direct you to write to Sir G. Rooke that, if need be and they cannot be supplied from the man-of-war, he take in supplies in Holland sufficient for the forces in their journey to Portsmouth. They will be supplied thence to Lisbon.
	Note of Enclosure.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 117.
4 Dec. Kirby [Northants].	Viscount Hatton to Nottingham.
	The deplorable loss at sea is in some sort alleviated by the fact that neither you or your family or any of our chief friends have lost anybody. I am grateful for yours of the 30th, saying orders had been given for the exchange of prisoners at Guernsey. This was very necessary, and so is the strengthening of the garrison, but, considering the losses and misfortunes we lie under, it is not to be expected. I send a letter received on behalf of the Dean of Guernsey, who does not, I find, press what I feared he would. You will see that it does not contradict what I had before written to you concerning his pretentions; and indeed his case, and that of the Church there, is such as is represented in the letter I have sent by him.
	P. 1 (small.) (Hol.) Add. Endd. S.P. Dom., Channel Islands 2, 71.
4 Dec. Kirby [Northants].	Viscount Hatton to Nottingham.
	I write on behalf of the Dean of Guernsey. On the last vacancy, I chose him as the only person fit for it. Lord Somers, when Chancellor, found a malicious information, which was made against the Dean by a worthless rival, false; but the patent which he made the present Dean take for his office cost more than it was worth, and he has since spent much in trying to get something of better profit "to help out the very bad bargain he had of the Deanery." He would have been ruined, had I not found some little means to help him out.
	If this Dean is not supported no other man of any qualification will hereafter take the Deanery; "and then the order and discipline of the Church of England will be lost in that island."
	Pp. 1¼. Signed. Add. Endd. in Warre's hand. Ibid, 72.
4 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to Southwell.
	Acknowledges letters.
	A line. S.P. Ireland, Entry Book 3, p. 162.
4 Dec. St. James'.	The Queen to the Chancellor and Privy Council of Scotland.
	The circumstances of our affairs require a further delay in the meeting of the Scotch Parliament, which was adjourned to 16 December. Issue a proclamation in our name adjourning it from that date to 22 February, 170¾, and requiring all members to attend then as usual.
	P. ¾. S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 19, pp. 83, 84.
5 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to [Nottingham].
	We have four packetsf but, as a Chester ship is going out, I send a list of the bills before the Council Board. I hope to send away twelve of them on Thursday by express; and, in a week after, as many more.
	No news. The Council meets every afternoon, and Committees every morning to hurry on the bills.
	P. ¾. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. S.P. Ireland 363, 142.
6 Dec. Dublin.	The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to [Same].
	The bearer, Mr. Bingham (Member of Parliament here), has been very zealous in everything for the Queen's service. He asks for a recommendation to you, and I must tell you that he lay under great obligations to the late King James, who gave him his pardon when under sentence of death; so he thought he could not in honour, serve against him. He now wants to serve her Majesty in Portugal or Savoy.
	Pp. 3. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 143.
6 Dec.	Petition of John Bayley to Nottingham.
	Shews:—Petitioner was servant to King James II for several years before his abdication, and had a debt of near 600l. due to him. Hoped to have it paid by applying at St. Germain's, and went over to France in 1693. King James continued him in his employment till his death, but petitioner could never get any of the money due to him.
	Petitioner, being in low condition and having several debts owing to him in England, was anxious to come home (being of the Church of England), and applied for leave, and was assured [details] that he could come over for a pass would be ready for him. Hearing this, he tried to get into Holland, but could not as the pass system was so strict, and accordingly came from Calais to Dover in July last with exchanged prisoners, and came directly to London.
	When here he was informed that the petition was lost, and was advised to surrender to one of the messengers.
	Prays for favour and assistance.
	P. 1. Signed. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 62.
Latest date, 6 Dec.	Documents relating to the Case of Colonel John Forward.
	Petition of Forward and reference thereon.
	The date of the reference is August 18, 1703.
	For petition and reference see Table of Petitions at 18 August, 1703. Post.
	Pp. 2. Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 144.
	The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to [Nottingham].
	Sends the Attorney General of Ireland's report on Forward's petition.
	P. ⅓. Imperfect. Dated, Dublin Castle, 6 December, 1703. Endd. "Lord Lieutenant." Ibid, 145.
	Report of the Attorney General on Forward's petition.
	Recites the allegations in the petition. Proceeds:—To prove these allegations, petitioner produced to me a certificate dated 10 July, 1694, signed by the Mayor, Aldermen and burgesses, of Londonderry, setting forth that immediately after the shutting of the gates of the city against the Earl of Antrim's Irish Popish regiment in December, 1688, the petitioner appeared, the first man, with a considerable number of Protestants well horsed and armed, to the great encouragement of the said city, and offered his service, promising to stand by the inhabitants thereof and the Protestant interest; that afterwards petitioner and his party were commanded to Dungannon, five miles from Charlemont, the enemy's frontier, where he continued till he was commanded back to Londonderry. In further proof of his allegations the petitioner produced a certificate dated 3 February, 1694[5], signed and attested by Henry Boyle. It sets forth that in 1688 Lord Tyrconnell sent the Earl of Antrim to possess Londonderry and make it an Irish garrison, and that petitioner and others encouraged the citizens to shut the gates against them, which was done accordingly on 7 December, 1688. "Upon which search was made for what arms were in the stores, and finding but few arms and those unserviceable they were much discouraged, being some time before disarmed by the said Lord Tyrconnell. The Earl of Antrim thereupon sent one Captain McDonnell to treat with the citizens for the admittance of his regiment, upon which Alderman Norman and the principal men of the said city, upon consultation amongst themselves, concluded that the said Henry Boyle should carry letters to the petitioner to come to their assistance the next day, as he promised, or they would be greatly discouraged, and desired the said petitioner to write to the gentry of the adjacent parts of the country to come with him. Accordingly the said letters were delivered; upon receipt whereof the said petitioner got out of bed and sent expresses to several gentlemen to meet him at Castle Forward (the petitioner's dwelling-house), but none of any note came in; that after the said petitioner's tenants and neighbours had received the arms and powder (which some time before were brought out of Holland to the said petitioner at his own charge, concealed in a cargo of deal boards), he marched into Londonderry with 300 horse, to the great encouragement of the inhabitants, and declared he would stick by them and the Protestant interest and Government, upon which the Earl of Antrim and his Irish Popish regiment dispersed, and the said garrison held out to the ruin of King James his army."
	I find likewise by the annexed affidavit of Mr. John Barry, produced to me and sworn before Henry Long, Mayor of Londonderry, on 20 June, 1694, that after the inhabitants had shut their gates the petitioner sent orders to summon Barry and other substantial men of the county to come to him the next morning; that Barry joined petitioner half a mile off his house next morning on his march to Derry with a party of horse, not certainly knowing what his intentions were, that petitioner then declared he was for the Prince of Orange, and so marched into the city with about 300 horse, to the great satisfaction of the inhabitants; that when Derry was besieged there was one Barry in the Irish army who took possession of petitioner's house of Castle Forward, and said that if petitioner were taken he would suffer as the grand instrument of rebellion against King James. He says further that during a great part of the time when Derry was besieged, a considerable number of the enemy's horse lay on petitioner's estate and did much damage [details] there.
	It further appears to me by an affidavit of John Bratton, of Taughboyne, sworn before Long [as aforesaid] on 10 June, 1694, that petitioner praised the people of Derry for shutting their gates, promised to risk his life and person in their cause, got the local gentry together and distributed arms and ammunition to them. Proceeds to bear out previous affidavits. Continues:—Lord Galmoy's and Lord Dungan's regiments were quartered on Castle Forward when Major-General Kirk lay at Inch, and did much damage there.
	Petitioner also produced to me an original order of King William III in Council, dated 15 April, 1690, and signed by Richard Colinge, Clerk of the Council, taking note of his particular and early services, and declaring that, at the reduction of the country, he should be specially provided for.
	Petitioner afterwards asked for the forfeited estates of Sir John Nugent and the Lords Justices of Ireland approved of his request, but the estate was afterwards granted to the Earl of Albemarle and re-assumed by Parliament. Petitioner, by frequent attendance in England, has run himself much into debt, and has been compelled to mortgage his estate for upwards of 3,000l., for which, and other debts, he tells me that a great part of his estate is extended, and he has never received a penny for his services.
	I am of opinion that the petitioner was very serviceable at the defence of Londonderry, and is much reduced in fortune by his expenses there, and is a fit object for relief if the Queen thinks proper.
	Pp. 3½. Signed. Dated, 5 November, 1703. S.P. Ireland 363, 147.
	This concludes the documents relating to this case.
6 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To the Commissioners of Sick and Wounded.
	You have done well in stopping the ships with prisoners going to France; but as the reason for the stop will soon disappear, remind me of it for further directions.
	P. ⅓. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 381.
	2. To Colonel Gibson.
	Peter Lews' petition concerning a ship which is stopped by you at Portsmouth is referred to the Judge of the Admiralty, but as no one has appeared on behalf of the parties, nothing has been done upon it. Acquaint the parties that they may appoint some one to take care of their business.
	P. ⅓. Ibid.
	3. To Captain Roope.
	Yours of the 5th. Command:—Stop the ship you mention to take the place of the Mary and Sarah as a transport, in case the Mary and Sarah is lost. It is better to incur the expense of fitting her as a transport than to hazard any disappointment on the King of Spain's arrival. Have her fitted, and provide beds and hammocks.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 118.
6 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To the Prince's Council.
	The Queen desires to know what would be the cost of making the same provision for the families of sailors lost in the late storm as if they had been killed in the service. Command:—Make an estimate thereof at once and submit it.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 391.
	2. To —.
	I have, as ordered, considered Sir William Blackett's petition. I find that the original debt therein mentioned of 7,140 Rix dollars is owned by Frederick III, late King of Denmark, to be justly due to Blackett by a bill under his hand and seal, dated at Copenhagen; 29 November, 1658, drawn upon Gabriell Marcellius, his Commissioner at Amsterdam directing the payment thereof. This was not done, and King Charles II, in October, 1661, wrote to the King of Denmark on it. Since then our Ministers in Denmark have had Blackett's case recommended to them, and by Order in Council of 21 March, 167 6/7;, Blackett's petition for reprisals was given to the Danish Minister here; for him to show cause why in some time reprisals should not be granted. Under King William III a fresh application was made to Denmark. This is all I can find.
	P. ¾. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 240, p. 137.
7 Dec. Dublin.	The Lord Lieutenant Of Ireland to [Nottingham].
	Six packets arrived. News of the losses at sea, surrender of Landau and victory of M. de Tallard. I hope we shall hear that Sir Cloudesly Shovell's squadron has escaped the fury of this hurricane. The despatch of her Majesty's affairs by the House of Commons makes some amends for her losses at sea.
	As Parliament is now near an end, I think we should fill up the Judges' places, and recommend Chief Baron Doyne to be Chief Justice of the Common Pleas; and Baron Donelane to succeed Doyne, and "Mr. Robert Johnston, who has been at the bar for these many years and very zealous in everything relating to the Queen's business in the House of Commons, and I think very well qualified to fill this station," to succeed Donelane.
	I have ordered an account of what horses are exported to Scotland from the North, and find it has been a constant trade, and that more have been sent this year than ever before. I have an informant who will tell me what the Scotch and their countrymen are doing and contriving, and think of sending as many of our English regiments as we can spare from the South to be quartered in the North. "We have but too many of that country in the Army, and if her Majesty's service should require troops from this Kingdom, I hope she will give me leave to send away some of our northern regiments." Mr. Southwell will tell you what I have heard about the Scotch, who need to be narrowly looked after.
	I should like to have the Queen's answer as to giving the French officers money. Till then we cannot give them any.
	Pp. 8. (Hol.) Endd. in Nottingham's (?) hand. S.P. Ireland 363, 147.
7 Dec. Dublin.	The Lord Lieutenant Of Ireland to [Nottingham].
	During the last Session of the Parliament here the House of Lords have been chiefly taken up with the case of the Earl of Meath and his lady, which is fully stated in the papers herewith.
	I had the greatest difficulty with the majority of the House of Lords to have so much regard to the present circumstances of public affairs as to forbear putting his lordship into immediate possession; and the consequence thereof might be easily apprehended if the House of Lords now sitting in England should take notice thereof. But, at their next meeting, they are engaged to grant an order of possession, and that before any public business comes on. Nothing can prevent this, "and if the House of Lords in England should reverse the same it will be impossible to hold a Parliament here again, because it is a point of judicature in which they think the honour of the House so much engaged that they can never depart from it"; and as I hope no such occasions will occur in the future, "I do offer it as a point of the highest concern for her Majesty's present and future service that this measure may be taken up."
	The only expedient that at present occurs is the treating with Lord Meath that when he has his order of possession granted him he may not execute it, but that if the Queen grants him and his lady 300l. a year for their joint lives (they are both very old) they will make over all their rights to Lord Ward.
	I think this matter of great importance, and desire her Majesty's directions on it; and, if it were not absolutely necessary, I should be very loth to suggest anything which would bring a load on the Revenue.
	Pp. 2. Signed. Endd. Ibid, 148.
	Enclosing:—
	a. Memorandum on the Case of the Earl and Countess of Meath in the House of Lords in Ireland.
	The bill in Chancery of the Palatinate of Tipperary to be relieved against a judgment in ejectment for the lands of Rochestown &c. was dismissed.
	Whereupon they appealed to the House of Lords in Ireland, and there the aforesaid dismiss was reversed and the land adjudged to the Appellants and by order of the House they were put in possession, which was accordingly done.
	Afterwards, upon application in the nature of an appeal to the House of Lords in England by Lord Ward, who was defendant in Ireland, the Lords determined for him, declared the proceedings before the Lords in Ireland to be coram non judice and ordered the Chancellor of the Palatinate to restore Lord Ward. This was done.
	The Earl of Meath might have been heard in England, but, being a peer in Ireland, he conceived he could not in honour do anything that might "intrench" on the privileges and jurisdiction of the House of Peers in Ireland.
	This Session the Earl and Countess complain of this whole matter to the House of Lords in Ireland, and the House of Lords unanimously declared their petition well grounded, and that they would give them relief, "and assert and vindicate the honour, jurisdiction and privileges" of their House.
	Their lordships forbore to give judgment at that time in pure respect to the Government, and that her Majesty's affairs should not be embarrassed thereby, but seem resolved to give judgment and possession next meeting and before the Money bill passes.
	This, it seems, can only be prevented by an agreement with Lord Ward, whereby his lordship may be compelled to acquiesce in the judgment here.
	Pp. 1²/3. Endd. S.P. Ireland. 363, 148A.
7 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges to Sir George Rooke.
	Sir Thomas Hardy, late commander of the Pembroke, has petitioned on behalf of himself and the rest of his ship's company that the said ship may be inserted in the list of ships to share in the Queen's bounty of the effects taken at Vigo. I send the petition. Report whether you were fully informed when you made out the list, and, if so, why you left that ship out of it.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, pp. 391, 392. Also in S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 104, 105.
8 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to Dr. Brampston.
	I enclose the King of Portugal's pass for the Mary, detained at Portsmouth, which is referred to you on the petition of Peter Lews. The Portuguese Envoy assures me it is a good pass.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 381.
8 Dec. London and Middlesex.	Report to the Queen on the Convicts in Newgate sentenced to death &c. at the Sessions on this date.
	Condemned to die:—
	Gerard Fitzgerald. Murder of Joshua Pix.
	John Goodwin and Henry Williams. Burglary in house of Kath. Strong, widow, and stealing her goods value 18d. Williams transported.
	John Simpson. Stealing a horse (20s.) from John Walker. Transported.
	Mary Fudge and Anne Denton. Respectively stealing from Elizabeth Hobday and Peter Reeves. Details. Both were convicted 24 February, 170²/3, and reprieved for pregnancy. Denton transported.
	Burnt in the hand, 1; in the face, 15. To be whipped, 2.
	Listed into your Majesty's service, 4.
	Hanuball Rosekerrick, convicted 14 April, 1697, for murder of his wife Mary.
	P. 1. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 63.
8 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to [Nottingham].
	The Lord Lieutenant desires leave to go to England for three months, and the Lord Treasurer has consented. I know his Grace wishes me to go with him to attend to Irish affairs whilst there, and I believe intends to propose as Lords Justices Lord Mount Alexander, the Lord Chancellor and Lieutenant-General Earle; the latter as absolutely necessary for the army. The former is thought of because "there is none of the Peers (if one may say it) may be so well confided in, though but a very weak man otherwise."
	P. 1. (Hol.) Endd. in Nottingham's hand. S.P. Ireland 363, 149.
Same.	Same to Same.
	The Workhouse bill now sent over was encouraged and promoted by the Duchess of Ormond, and much followed for that reason. I mention this that it may be returned.
	I recommend Sir Hans Hamilton's bill: for sale of part of his estate to redeem the rest. I know his relatives entirely consent thereto. He is my old schoolfellow and acquaintance, and stuck by us very well in the House of Commons.
	P. ¾. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. Ibid, 150.
Same.	Same to Same.
	Six posts in. I deeply regret the news of the losses and fear for more. Here we are free from ill effects of the storms, though we have had them. His Grace writes on the Earl of Meath's business, on which I hope soon to hear from your lordship.
	The Council has worked hard at the bills. Only thirteen are ready for this transmission, and I hope in a week we shall have as many more. As those now sent will, I think, take up little time, except the Popery and Linen bills, it would be very grateful here that we could have as many of them returned as possible.
	I had hoped for some further direction in relation to the French officers to be sent hence, and enclose the names and qualities of those now ready to go off; but we can neither pay them the remaining one-third of their pension for 1703, nor make them any advance without her Majesty's letter. The Treasury Office here will not pay without a regular order. We also want an order to put the Duke's regiment on the establishment as from 6 October; for though my Lord will not ask for more than is necessary, nor proceed to commission the officers yet of [for] a month to save expense, yet there have been about twenty men of a troop already taken in to look after the horses; and we can get no subsistence for these till the Queen's letter arrives.
	Pray lay before her Majesty the enclosed address of the House about the Linen bill. If the desired exemption can be obtained, it would be regarded as a great kindness to Ireland, "and since England has already taken off all the duty on our linen cloth, I should think the rest very easy."
	I will take every care to find out what is stirring in the North, both on this side and the other. Details.
	Pp. 3½. (Hol.) Endd. in Nottingham's hand. S.P. Ireland 363, 151.
8 Dec. Kirby.	Viscount Hatton to [Nottingham].
	Captain Ellis, Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, is dead, and a great loss to me and the island. I don't know if the Queen will fill his place, nor do I recommend anybody; but please see that whoever comes into it is a discreet and well-tempered man, "for he will have to do with a contentious wragling people." My eyes will serve me no more, but I am, &c.
	P. ¾ (small). (Hol.) Endd. in Nottingham's hand. S.P. Dom., Channel Islands 2, 73.
9 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Same.
	I send, by his Grace's direction, another list of the French officers, made by the chief of them here; being the youngest sort and most fit to serve; wherein some are proposed for advanced posts. Whoever has to command them will be sure to enquire into their particular qualifications. I send also a copy of a letter to my Lord written by a friend who was travelling in the North. It will show something of those people, and I hope shall shortly be able to give your lordship a better account.
	The City of Dublin earnestly hope their Ballast Office bill may pass. It will be much for the good of the City; for this harbour grows very bad, and the City propose no private advantage to themselves.
	P. 1. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 152.
	Enclosing:—
	a. Memoir for the Lord Lieutenant.
	That, being in co. Cavan on 20 November, 1703, at one Bryan Maden's, which is called the four mile house in the Wake of Cavan, [I] met there in company one Mr. Sterling, of Scotch extraction, who is minister of Lurgan, which is part of Lord Fingall's estate. On discourse of affairs between him, Mr. Birns and one Bryan Brogan, Mr. Sterling said that they "ought to cut the throat and kill every Englishman that came into this country (supposing by my name that I was not an Englishman)." This expression, coming from a clergyman, surprised me; and, in respect of his coat, [I] only said that the English suffered more in proportion than this country, for that they kept up 50,000 men or more abroad beside the expense of the fleet at sea and money to support the Alliance; that "the continuance of those duties to the Queen, which terminated at Midsummer last, were inconsiderable and no way burdensome to the country, because it is the choice of every man that drinks and smokes tobacco which pays those duties"; and only reasonable that the people of this country should contribute to support the Government of Ireland, when England is at incredible expense to protect herself and Ireland.
	On 28 October, at Mr. Fitzgerald's public house in Kells, Mr. Fitzgerald said that the Scotch had three times sent circular letters to invite them to join their interest, but that they had refused, saying they were easy as they were. It is submitted to your Grace's judgment whether the people in general may not join their faction and with what evil results, especially when a minister of the Protestant Church talks as Mr. Sterling did.
	As most of the North is in the hands of the Scotch, men of Scotch race and Presbyterians, it is submitted whether such people may now be relied on to support the present Government, when some of them, as I am informed, have already shewn themselves in Parliament against it, and as some regiments in the army have been raised or recruited there, whether many of them may not desert and join any insurrection which the Scotch and Presbyterians and their adherents may be inclined to set up there. Though it may be at present dangerous to resent the ingratitude to her Majesty of such persons, yet just cause may be found to break them for false musters and not completing their companies &c., when they have no losses by war, but dwell peaceably and cheaply.
	The opposition which your Grace found in Parliament was discoursed of and threatened by an Assembly of Presbyterian teachers before its convention at the house of a Scotchman, Mr. Kenedys, in Capell Street, Dublin, which Kennedy is the first of twelve elders chosen for the new erected conventicle in St. Mary's Abbey in Sir Humfry Jervis' yard in Capell (fn. 2) Street aforesaid. At one of their Assemblies there one Mr. Conollye was particularly named to speak to purpose [sic] when the Parliament should convene.
	On 11 November I was told by Mr. Townley, a J.P., and Mr. Sterling that had your Grace secured the interest of Major Clayton, [and] the St. George's with some others they would not name, your Grace had met with no opposition in Parliament.
	Professions of service.
	Pp. 2½. An unsigned copy. Dated, 15 Nov., 1703. S.P. Ireland 363, 152 a.
10 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To Sir George Rooke.
	Yours of 1/12th and 7th inst. Considering how well disposed (as we hear) the Spaniards are to receive the King of Spain, we should make all possible haste with the Portuguese expedition. You are therefore to proceed for England with the King of Spain as soon as the wind serves with such ships as are ready to sail with you. Transports at Spithead ready. The proposal about the Count of Toulouze is not worth considering, and the King may rely on what is necessary and what her Majesty can do for the safety of his passage. Notwithstanding the late storm, everything is ready here for his passage. You will see this by the list of ships which are to attend him, which I have got from the High Admiral's [Prince's] Council to send to you. Private advices say that 10,000 landmen are going from France to Spain, but it will be three months before they can be there. The Lord Treasurer says he will take care of what you have promised the Agent for Transports as to acceptance of his bills for [the expense of] refitting and victualling the transports damaged by the late storm.
	P.S. —I find by M. Vryberge that the States insist upon having a commission for the command of the fleet in case of your absence. The High Admiral's [Prince's] Council are positive that there is no need for it, the command going of course to the second English officer. I should be glad to know your thoughts on this.
	Pp. 1¼. Followed by:—
	List of ships designed to go with the King of Spain.
	At Spithead, eight; at Plymouth, one; in Holland, three. Two other vessels getting ready to relieve ships not so proper. Names of vessels and number of guns of each vessel given.
	In all pp. 1¾. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 105–107.
	2. To the Postmaster[s] General.
	Command:—Stop the packet-boat at Harwich till her Majesty's letters (which will be sent you to-morrow at noon to go by flying packet) arrive there.
	P. 1/6. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 18.
10 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to the Prince's Council.
	Command:—To send you enclosed from Ambassador Methuen. You are to prepare twenty sheathed ships for the West Indies, and with all the expedition possible.
	P. 1/4. Also note that enclosed was an extract of a letter dated, Lisbon, 7Dec.,/26 Nov., 1703, as follows:—
	I am troubled to have no account from the Prince's Council of what hulks or naval stores are designed hither, nor what method is intended in cleaning or repairing our ships, that I might provide a proper place and necessary houses &c. It is not so with the Dutch, who have given advice to make provision for them. "It has been very unfortunate hitherto that our men-of-war who have stayed here have never had orders to cruise, which I hope will now be provided for, and that there will be sufficient orders in general to assist the King of Portugal and engage in such service for him as the occasion may require, believing that they will never be unnecessarily importuned and that the matter in the two questioned articles will be made easy the first occasion that requires it."
	P. ¼. In all p. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 118.
11 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To Mr. Jones [director of the packet-boat at Falmouth].
	To give enclosed to the master of the packet-boat for Lisbon if she has not already sailed with the letters of Tuesday last.
	P.S. —If she has sailed, keep the letters for the next mail.
	P. ⅓. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 382.
11 Dec. Sick and Wounded Office.	The Commissioners of Sick and Wounded to Nottingham.
	As most of the ships drove out to sea by the late storm are by this time either returned to our own harbours or secured in some of the neighbouring ports, we think that our transport vessel lately stopped at Dover may go to Calais with French prisoners in exchange for about three hundred English prisoners, who are in those parts and in great extremities. His Royal Highness has ordered us to relieve them as soon as possible.
	P. ½. Signed by Lee, Herbert and Morley. Endd. S.P. Dom., Naval 118, 140.
11 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges to the Lord Treasurer.
	Sends extract from Rooke as to credit to the Transport agent in Holland, who has had repairs effected to the ships designed for the Portugal expedition and injured by the late storm.
	P. ¹/8. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 26.
About 11 Dec.	Petition to the Queen of Arthur Brownlow, Esq., in behalf of himself and [the] inhabitants of Lurgan Clanbrazill, within the manor of Brownlow's derry, co. Armagh.
	Shews:—
	"The said town of Lurgan is a large village consisting of a great many store houses well shingled and finished and abounding with a great number of British inhabitants, who are industrious and trading people, and have considerably advanced and improved several manufacturies, and especially the linen manufacture there, and is, as they conceive, one of the most thriving, flourishing villages and most considerable market towns of . . . Ulster." There are only two towns—Armagh and Charlemont—in Armagh which send members or burgesses to Parliament, "though the said county of Armagh for the most part is a British plantation."
	The town of Lurgan and adjacent lands lie in the manor of Brownlow's derry, which was made a manor by patents granted by King James I to the ancestors of the petitioner Brownlow; whereby the seneschal has power to hold plea for any sum of under 40s.
	Petitioners think it would be to the advantage of the town and parts adjacent if the Queen would grant to the inhabitants by patents that they and their successors should return two burgesses to Parliament in Ireland, "in order to move and represent such matters as shall be thought convenient for the encouragement of trade"; and that the manor should be a Court of Record and the seneschal have jurisdiction up to 10l.
	Prays accordingly.
	P. 1. Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 153.
	Accompanied by:—
	a. and b. Two certificates, both dated 11 December, 1703, testifying to the facts alleged in the petition. The first certificate says that Lurgan is a "very thriving and flourishing place," and is signed (autograph) by William Blacker, Daw [?] Cope, Henry Jenney, Ham. Ofins [or Obins], Anthony Obins, Thomas Clarke, John Campbell. The second certificate is similar, speaking of the village"of many good houses of lime and stone or brickwork, well shingled and finished," and is signed (autograph): Dungannon, William Steuart, Henry Echlin, John Ossory, Edward Down and Connor, Robert Doyne, Matthew Ford, Samuel [?] Waring, Edward Lyndon, Nicholas Price, James Hamilton, Henry [?] Reader, Anthony Cope, Daniel Madden.
	In all pp. 1⅓. Ibid, 153 a. and b.
13 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To [George] Clarke.
	Yours of the 11th. Let me know what will be the loss of providing victuals proper for the West Indies in case the squadron designed thither should not go; that I may lay it before her Majesty for directions.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 382.
	2. To Colonel Gibson.
	Yours of the 11th re a Swedish merchantman, the Wine Grape of Stockholm. Let me know on what pretence she came into Portsmouth. Further directions. Meantime stop her.
	P. ¼. Ibid.
	3. To the Commissioners for Sick and Wounded.
	Yours of 11th. Command:—The ship with prisoners stopped at Dover to go now to Calais.
	P. ¼. Ibid, p. 383.
	4. To Mr. Gardner.
	Yours of the 6th. On what the Directors of the East India Company have represented on behalf of Père Fountaine, command:— Fountaine to be released and handed over to the Company if they will undertake to take him, and send him at once to Harwich and thence to Holland, and that during his stay here he does not converse to the prejudice of the Government.
	P. ½. Ibid.
14 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to the Attorney General.
	I send the bills from Ireland and a private bill sent by the Lord Lieutenant and Council, with two letters from them. You and Mr. Solicitor to consider the bills, and bring them to the Council on Thursday, when they will be referred to you in form; but I send them now for gaining time.
	P. ⅓. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 384.
14 Dec. Sick and Wounded Office.	The Commissioners of Sick and Wounded to Nottingham.
	We suggest that the bearer, Jean Ferronet, a French prisoner, be allowed to go free to Holland. He discovered a plot of the other French prisoners at Southampton to undermine the prison walls and escape; and finding that his revelation is known to many French prisoners now returned home, fears the consequences [details] if he returns to France. He wishes to bring his family from France to Holland. If he is permitted to do this, it may induce other, prisoners to make such discoveries. He has with him his brother-in-law, Pujos, who lately escaped, with twenty others, from Southampton, but has revealed their means of escape, whereby further escapes by that way will be prevented. We recommend that both men be allowed to go, as they desire.
	Pp. 2. Signed by Herbert, Adams and Morley. Endd. S.P. Dom., Naval 118, 141.
15 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges to the Prince's Council.
	I send you the names of four Danish seamen, prisoners at Southampton, being taken on French privateers. The Danish Envoy says they are ready to serve in the Queen's Navy if they may be released. Please enquire if they are fit for this, and, if they are, entertain them as you shall see occasion. Names given.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 392.
Latest date, 15 Dec.	Henry Arkwright, Collector at Galway, to the Commissioners [Of Customs].
	The Chamberlain frigate, of London (240 tons, 16 guns), and transport ship, was lately cast away near Blacksod. Captain William Prowes, commander outwards, died in the West Indies, and Captain William Soyarce [was] commander homewards. She was discharged of the Queen's service at Guardalupa, and went back thence to Jamaica, where she loaded sugar, cotton, indico and logwood. A little indico and cotton is saved, with her guns, masts, sails and rigging. All are in the hands of Mr. Michael Cormack, who undertook the salvage.
	P. ¼. Dated, 10 December. Extract. Followed by:—
	John Kent, Collector at Waterford, to the Commissioners [of Customs].
	The Palm Tree [details] of Bideford has come in. She was chased from Lundy to the harbour mouth by a French privateer, and there was taken. The master, William Vicary, ransomed her for 100. The privateer is the Mary Magdalen of St. Malo's, and had previously taken two other ships, one English, one of Pennsylvania, and both with tobacco and furs. Details. They had been separated from the Virginia convoy by bad weather. News of other privateers in the Channel.
	P. ½. Extract. Dated, 15 December, 1703.
	In all S.P. ¾. S.P. Dom., Ireland 363, 154.
15 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Nottingham.
	The Council busy despatching more bills. To-morrow night ten or twelve public bills will go, which is all that will be sent over.
	I see the Queen has appointed January 12 for a fast. His Grace desires to know if she would have it observed here; as it is usual to signify it when intended.
	Before Parliament rose, they sent an address to the Lord Lieutenant to be laid before her Majesty for some consideration for the army debts of the last war due to this country. Details. I have writ to Lord Coningsby to give you information as to this demand. Please consider, before the House re-assembles, what his Grace should say in answer.
	Pp. 1½. (Hol.) Endd. Ibid, 155.
	Enclosing—
	a. Address of the Irish House of Commons to the Queen. (fn. 3)
	Poverty of the country. We have received petitions from many parts, setting forth that in 1689, 1690 and 1691, when the Army was on the English establishment, the petitioners supplied them with necessary provisions in large quantities. The country has never been paid for these, to the utter ruin of many families.
	We pray that they may be paid.
	P. ²/3. Ibid, 155 a.
16 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To Mr. Selwyn.
	Yours of the 11th. The persons mentioned in it have been brought up by the messenger. You did very well. Continue your care.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 384.
	2. To the Lieutenant of the Tower.
	This will be brought by the messenger who will deliver to you Sir J. Mackleane for high treason. Keep him alone; and do not allow him to write or receive letters or see anyone without leave from her Majesty.
	P. ¼. Ibid, pp. 384, 385.
16 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Nottingham.
	The Lord Lieutenant has gone to Kilkenny for a few days. He recommends the case of Captain Mathews, his near relation. He is a Roman Catholic, but married a Protestant, and she has always remained so. The enclosed clause was particularly framed to deprive him of the benefit of any settlement his wife may make upon him, and is inserted in the bill of Popery sent over. His Grace was not anxious to appear in the matter on this side for fear of giving ground for a charge of what people are so apt to call "favour to Papists"; but as it seems very hard to make a single instance, it may be easy to drop out the clause on that side.
	There goes over a bill in favour of Colonel Power, who was acquitted in London. He has obtained such ample certificates of good behaviour in former times that the Council thought fit to countenance his bill. The Lord Lieutenant recommends it.
	Pp. 1½. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 156.
	Enclosing:—
	a. Draft clause [referred to in foregoing]. (fn. 4)
	. . . Be it further enacted . . . that no wife who was at the time of her marriage a Protestant shall be capable to join in a fine or other conveyance whatsoever with her husband if such husband shall be of the Popish religion in order in any way to settle or dispose of the estate of such wife; but that all such fines and other conveyances shall, as to the said wife and her heirs or issue in tail or any Protestant in remainder, be null and void.
	P. ²/3. (small). Ibid, 156 a.
Same.	The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to Same.
	Our bills are to-day finished. I hope you will despatch them with all convenient speed. I have asked Mr. Southwell to recommend some private bills. I am concerned as to the other public ones. (fn. 5) I am going to Kilkenny to-morrow, where I shall stay ten days.
	Pp. 1½. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. Ibid, 157.
Same.	Same to Same.
	I desire your favour in the matter of a private bill now going over, concerning Lord Arran and myself.
	P. ²/3. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. Ibid, 158.
17 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To the Lord Treasurer.
	I send for your consideration a draft receipt in full by the King of Denmark for all sums claimed by him under the Treaty &c., which has been drawn by his Envoy here. If you approve, it may be despatched, being the first step to the renewal of the Treaties between the Queen and Denmark, "which his Minister here presses for."
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 28.
	2. To M. Vryberge.
	I send herewith copy of a memoir of Mr. Hill, of the Admiralty Council [the Prince's Council], presented to the Directors of the Admiralty of the United Provinces, dated 28 November last. It deals with the fitting out of eighteen Dutch ships of the line to join the thirty of her Majesty's and the convoys of the two nations for Portugal, the Sound and Russia. Pray get an answer to this memoir as soon as possible. As to the two memorials which you have lately presented to the Queen, in one of which you ask her to intercede with the Elector of Hanover for leave for the troops to winter on the Upper Rhine, and in the other of which you ask the Queen to send envoys to the Princes and States of Germany to arouse them to extraordinary efforts at this juncture against the common enemy: the Queen has not yet said what answer she will make to the first. As to the second, she has already sent letters in the sense requested, and will do do so again, and will send ministers to places where she is not already represented to press this home.
	To yours of to-day:—The Council of the Admiralty have promised to send me many precedents for the case that an English naval officer, though of junior rank to a Dutch officer, should command the combined fleet. I feel sure they will send them in time for you to report thereon to the States General by next Tuesday's post.
	P. 1. French. Ibid, p. 29.
17 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To Colonel Gibson.
	Command:—To release the Wine Grape. [See above at 6 December, 1703.]
	P. 1/6. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 385.
	2. To Captain Roope.
	To make extra stalls for horses in the Blackstone, which he has taken up as a transport. Details.
	P. ½. Ibid.
	3. To [George] Clarke.
	Yours of 15th. Command:—Not to provide the special victuals necessary for the West Indian cruise. They can be provided when such a cruise is finally resolved on, but the loss will be 500l. if the ships are so provisioned and do not go.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 119.
Same.	[Richard Warre] to Captain Atkinson.
	My Lord desires to know whether you have any news of the Mary and Sarah transport ships being cast away, and what men and goods may have been saved, especially clothing, arms, baggage and accoutrements belonging to James Johnson, Provost Marshal for the Army for Portugal.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 146, p. 19.
18 Dec.	Notes of Letters [by Nottingham].
	Circular letters were written to George Morland, Esq., at Durham, the Commander-in-chief at Berwick, the Commanderin-chief at Carlisle and Sir William Blackett at Newcastle. All dated 18 December.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 385.
About 18 Dec.	The Duke Of Devonshire and others to Same.
	As the Committee of the House of Lords appointed to examine Boucher, Ogilby and others they ask for papers found on these persons.
	P. ½. Signed (autograph), Devonshire, Sunderland, Scarborough, Somerset, Townshend, Wharton, Somers. With note that the papers were sent on 18 December, 1703. Add. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 64.
18 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Same.
	Details. In answer to a request from my Lord Marlborough as to what troops could be spared hence, the Lord Lieutenant replied, Three regiments of foot at the most. The ten regiments we have here want about 800 men, and the four regiments lately arrived from the West Indies will want about 1,100, all which we propose to complete by April 10. To fill up the place of these, the Lord Lieutenant has recommended my Lord Dungannon, who served as captain in the war of Ireland, and was wounded there, for one regiment. "He is a man of good interest and well beloved, and has been very zealous always in her Majesty's service." His Grace desires your Lordship would recommend him to her Majesty. Details.
	P.S.—If approved of, the three Colonels will be Lords Ikerin [Ikerrin] and Inchiquin and the Earl of Dungannon.
	Pp. 1½. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 159.
Same.	Same to Same.
	This goes with our second and last transmission of the bills which are swelled to a large number. If there be not time for the greater part of them, I hope your lordship will get the best and least exceptionable of them sent back.
	The House cannot meet till the bills come back, and January 11 is too soon for that; so his Grace will direct short adjournments or a longer one as her Majesty thinks fit.
	A bill goes over concerning his Grace and one for Mrs. Wall, "the justest and most deplorable case that can be," and all the Council desire she may find favour therein. "They did indeed make a collection at the Board for the charges of passing it, she being in the last necessity."
	Pp. 1½. (Hol). Endd. Ibid, 160.
18 Dec. Whitehall.	[Richard Warre] to the Postmaster[s] General.
	The bearer, John Ferronet, lately a French prisoner of war at Southampton, is the one who lately discovered a design of all those prisoners to make their escape. The escape was thereby prevented, and the Commissioners of Sick and Wounded were ordered, in consideration of his service, to release him; and the Queen has ordered a pass for him and his brother from Harwich to Holland in a packet-boat. My Lord desires you will give them an order to your agent at Harwich or master of the packet-boat to give them their passage free on board the next packet.
	P. ¾. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 146, pp. 19, 20.
Same.	Note of [Same] to the Earl Of Scarborough.
	To let Lord Secretary Nottingham know the name of some honest Justice of the Peace at Durham, or in that country, who may be entrusted with an important matter for her Majesty's service.
	P. 1/6. Ibid, p. 20.
20 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to the Prince's Council.
	Countermands the order re special victuals contained in his letter to George Clarke, of November 17. They are to be provided whether there is a subsequent loss or not. Importance of having a squadron ready to go [at short notice] to the West Indies.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 119.
20 Dec. Guildhall, London.	Order of the Court of Lieutenancy of the City Of London.
	That the Clerk procure her Majesty's warrant for imposing and levying on the City the militia tax commencing Christmas Day next, pursuant to an Act made in that behalf.
	P. ¼. Signed by John Andrewes, Clerk of the Lieutenancy of London. Endd. generally and "For trophy money," and, in a later hand, "Domestick." S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 65.
20 Dec.	John Sudbury to Nottingham.
	James Durrant is safe at Yarmouth or Lastiff [Lowestoft ?]. His evidence will be valuable against Reed and others lately taken up, for in the original paper which I delivered to you on October 7, 1703, he says [quotes the letter alleged to be written by James Durrant and copied into his (Sudbury's) letter to Nottingham of 28 September, 1703, q.v. above, pp. 134–5].
	Note.—James Durrant was a prisoner in Dunkirk, when he saw Reed there and the pretended Jackson several times. Durrant had a great deal of liberty by reason of money being remitted to him there.
	I thought it right to send this information, and, if you so direct and order me the necessary money, I will gladly risk the journey to Yarmouth to bring up Durrant.
	P. 1. (Hol.) Add. Ibid, 66.
21 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex.
	Command:—To forbear executing sentence on John Goodwin (eighteen years old, and an able seaman), who is in Newgate under sentence of death for burglary, and which was to be executed to-morrow. Further pleasure.
	P. ⅓. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 18.
	2. To the Prince's Council.
	Command:—To inform his Royal Highness that the Queen has pardoned two seamen (named) condemned to die for desertion, that he may give the necessary orders.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 393.
Same.	Nottingham to the Lieutenant of the Tower or his Deputy.
	To permit bearer to deliver enclosed to Sir John Macklean as from Lady Macklean.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 386.
22 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges to the Prince's Council.
	To procure release of two Swedes who have been serving in the Navy. Details. Request of Swedish Resident. Tickets for their wages.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 393.
Same.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To the Duke of Northumberland.
	A Mr. Charles Mildmay, who was gentleman of the horse to your Grace, came to me in April last in your Grace's name for a pass for one Winifrett and Mary Farrell to go to Holland. It now appears that these were feigned names under which disaffected persons have gone to France. I entreat you to let me know what you can recollect of this matter, for Mr. Mildmay owns that he had only your Grace's leave to use your name that he might get that pass.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 386.
	2. To the Lord Treasurer.
	The Queen has heard that Sir John and Lady Macleane are in present necessity. Command:—To make them and their children such an allowance as you shall think proper.
	P. ¹/8. Ibid.
23 Dec. Sick and Wounded Office.	The Commissioners of Sick and Wounded to Nottingham.
	We desire your directions regarding Jean Brunelau and Lewis Diore, certified as Protestants, who have been offered to return to France by way of exchange, but desire to stay in England.
	P. 1/4. Signed by Lee, Herbert and Adams. Endd. S.P. Dom., Naval 118, 142.
23 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to the Lord Treasurer.
	Command:—To give directions for paying 300l. a year to the Earl and Countess of Meath during their joint lives.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 387.
24 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To Mrs. Plowden.
	Similar in substance to that to the Duke of Northumberland [q.v. above at 22 December, 1703], but in more peremptory language.
	P. ¼. Ibid.
	2. To the Attorney General.
	Sending more Irish bills, including a private bill for relief of Walter Butler. Similar to same to same of 14 December, 1703 (q.v. above at that date).
	P. ½. Ibid, p. 388.
	3. To the Commissioners for Sick and Wounded.
	To reclaim, as soon as convenient, one Godwin, a master of a ship, who is prisoner at Dieppe.,
	P. 1/6. Ibid.
	4. To the Prince's Council.
	As to Brunelau and Diore, two released Protestant French prisoners, who desire not to return to France;—if you have no objection, they may be taken into the Queen's service on ship board.
	I also send extract of letter from the Alcalde of Tangier. His Royal Highness's views should be taken on it if you think such things may be put on board a man-of-war.
	Note of the enclosed:—The Alcalde writes in July as follows:—
	The Emperor having ordered me to provide some English cloth to clothe his troops, I have commissioned Palmer [to send] some to his house here, and beg that it may be sent by the first frigates that are to be sent into these seas. I know it is unusual for the Queen's ships to carry merchandize, but there is special necessity in this case.
	In all p. 1.S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, pp. 119, 120.
24 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Nottingham.
	I expect Parliamentary business and the discovery of these persons lately come from France, has taken up much of your lordship's time. I have sent an episcopal minister into Scotland with full instructions to let me know what is stirring; and I lately wrote to Lieutenant-Colonel Price, who lives in co. Down, and is brother-in-law to my wife. I send an extract of his letter. He is very active, and has a very good interest in that country.
	You wrote lately on behalf of Captain Howard that he should have a troop in the Lord Lieutenant's regiment. His Grace will provide for him when he can, but his new regiment is "thronged beyond measure." He was aide-de-camp to his Grace in Spain, and his Grace by his favour got him 500l. or 600l. on his return, so he cannot think his Grace does not wish him well.
	The Duke will be another week at Kilkenny. All very quiet here.
	P.S.—Our rapparees are dispersed.
	Pp. 2. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 161.
	Enclosing:—
	a. Colonel Price to Southwell.
	I hope next week to settle a correspondence which will give you satisfactory news from Scotland; and meantime do all I can to discover the disposition of the people. "I think I do very well know all this country, [and,] without vanity, would have more men to follow me than any in it even of the Presbyterian Persuasion. I know no reason for it, but that I spare not to let them know their own and to see justice done them when their own people would oppress them."
	The most ready and exact way to know the number of horses and the quantities of grain exported for Scotland would be to order the Commissioners to get a return from the collectors; but if you think that too public a way, I will get the best information I can from the two collectors of this country, and send it.
	"The sort of horses that are generally sent for Scotland is small grey horses about 13 hands high very near, and of 13½." At present I hear they have put a stop to further importation into Scotland.
	Pp. 1⅓. An extract. Dated, Hollymount, 22 December, 1703, Ibid, 161a.
24 Dec. Newcastle.	Sir William Blackett to Nottingham.
	On receiving your commands, guards were placed on all the gates, the town searched, and all innkeepers ordered to make a return every night of all their visitors who were strangers. We have as yet heard of no one answering your description of either person, but have found "a stranger that has been for some time about our town, who having the accent of a Scot, though he pretends to be an Irishman, and finding about him some unintelligible papers," we send up the papers and keep him, pending orders. He says that he was delayed here only by gout, and that the President of the Session of Scotland, Sir Patrick Johnson, of Edinburgh, knows his principles to be loyal. We have written to make inquiries as to this, and will let you know if we hear anything amiss of him. He says his paper book is of some value to him, and begs to have it returned. Pray let us know whether to secure him any longer or not. Description, and expressions of loyal service follow.
	Pp. 2½. (Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand.S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 67.
24 Dec. [Durham.]	George Morland to Nottingham.
	On receiving Nottingham's commands, (fn. 6) has taken all precautions to guard the avenues to the north and the road about a mile west of the city. Is watching Mr. Paton's [?] house carefully day and night. Generally similar to foregoing, but reports no arrest.
	P. 1.(Hol.) Endd. in Warre's hand. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 68.
25 Dec. Dublin.	Lieutenant-General William Steuart to [Same].
	I send a petition, as the Duke of Ormond does not think fit to let me go over till after Parliament meets here, to solicit my own business. His Grace thinks I have been and may be useful to the Queen in her Parliament here. I have done my best to serve her, as the Duke and Lord Coningsby, who is now in London, will certify. I am sorry that noble lord is so much changed from what he seemed to be when here—I mean as to the Occasional Conformity bill; of which I say no more, "nor of the indecent behaviour of all the decenters here when we heard the ill news of its being thrown out in the House of Lords." When I see you I will say what I have observed of that sort of people. Pray lay my petition before the Queen. The Duke has promised to let me go to England about 20 January, and I should like to have the reference here before I go.
	Pp. 2. (Hol.) Endd. in Nottingham's hand. S.P. Ireland 363, 162.
25 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
	Yours of the 7th, 8th and 16th. I shall endeavour to obey your Grace's commands and particularly to despatch your own bill. I have acquainted the Queen with your recommendations of judges, which I think she approves, and I will have letters in form despatched for them.
	Your design of sending some troops to the North is very prudent, especially at this time, when there appears such contrivances of raising disturbances in Scotland.
	You will hear from the Lord Treasurer of the Queen's intention to give a pension of 300l. a year to Lord and Lady Meath; but I must beg leave to observe to your Grace that if this favour be not so managed that Lord Meath withdraws his petition and so the House of Lords in Ireland passes no vote upon it, her Majesty's object in awarding this pension will be frustrated; for the Lords here will be equally dissatisfied with a sentence in contradiction of their judgment as with the execution of that sentence, and Lord Ward will have equal reason to complain because 'tis prejudicial to his title and an endeavour to overthrow it. Pray therefore discourse fully with Lord Meath on this matter and so settle it that all occasion of dissatisfaction be removed.
	P. ²/3. S.P. Ireland, Entry Book 3, p. 163.
	2. To Southwell.
	Yours of 8th to 18th. The bills received have been sent to the Attorney and Solicitor General, and that they may be prepared to give their report the sooner after they are referred to them in form by the Queen in Council.
	I formerly told you that the Queen would allow the Lord Lieutenant to come into England after the Parliament . . . .
	The "Committee" of Trade and Commissioners of Customs agree in their representation to the Queen that it would be very inconvenient to allow the linens of Ireland to be carried directly to the Plantations. The Ballast bill will also be opposed, for I hear that great offers are made for that privilege to be applied to public uses.
	Lord Coningsby says he will put into writing what he has to say about the army quarters, but I have not yet received it from him. Details.
	P. ²/3. S.P. Ireland, Entry Book 3, pp. 163, 164.
25 Dec. Carlisle.	Henry Sewell to Nottingham.
	Queen's order received (fn. 7) and will be strictly obeyed.
	P. ¼ (small). Signed. Endd. Add. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 69.
26 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To Sir George Rooke.
	It was believed when you went to Holland that you would return here so soon as you had seen the King of Spain safe at Lisbon; but you having now been detained two months, and that expedition being like to be so much later than was expected, I am desired to ask for your thoughts and intentions as to staying there or coming away, that the Queen may give such orders as may be necessary in either case. I suppose you understand the Queen intends to make up her quota for Portugal to thirty, by gradually adding eighteen, as they can be got, to the twelve you have with you, and I believe it is understood that twelve are to remain in Portugal. Now, if you think of returning as soon as you have landed the King of Spain, it ought to be considered what ships you will have to bring you back and convoying the transport ships, and what trade there is back to England. Send your opinion as to what is best.
	We are told there are near 150 sail of small French vessels, commonly called the "Grand Partie" in Conquest Road, but there is not one frigate here can be got ready to look out after them. I think it most desirable that something should be done in it.
	P.S.—If Admiral Callemberg needs any tackle that he has lost in the storm, care is to be taken that he is supplied out of her Majesty's stores, paying for the same.
	Pp. 1¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, pp. 32, 33. Also entered S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 107, 108.
	2. To Sir George Rooke.
	The Envoy of the States General having desired that Baron Frison, (fn. 8) Major-General of the States' troops, may have credit for such provisions as those troops may want in the present expedition to the value of 4,000l. Command:—To see him supplied so far, the Envoy having undertaken for payment thereof. The King of Spain arrived here to-night, and 'tis believed he will return to Portsmouth on Friday.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 34. Re-entered and dated Windsor, 29 Dec., in S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 111, 112.
	3. To the Duke of Bolton.
	The King of Spain being to pass on his way to Windsor through the county of Hants, of which you are Lord Lieutenant. Command:—To tell you that "it is her Majesty's pleasure that he be received and attended by the gentlemen officers of the militia of the county with as much respect as can be." Give order to assemble as many as can be on the first news of the King's landing. He is to be attended in the same way on going from Windsor to the coast.
	P. ½. With marginal note of [similar letter to] the Earl of Dorset for Sussex and Lord Craven for Berks. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 18.
	4. To M. Rosencrantz.
	I cannot get you the audience you ask for with the Queen and his Royal Highness until the feast and the ceremonies accompanying the King of Spain's arrival at Windsor are over.
	P. ¼. French. Ibid, p. 19.
	5. To the Duke of Marlborough.
	I hear from Dover that Sir G. Rooke passed there yesterday, and conclude he reached Spithead this morning . . . . the Prince leaves for Petworth very early to-morrow, and the Queen for Windsor at 11 o'clock.
	P. ⅓. Ibid.
	6. To the Postmaster of Pembroke.
	I send herewith letters on the Queen's service addressed to the Mayor of Pembroke and to any of her Majesty's Justices of the Peace in or near Pembroke. Be careful in, and report, delivery, and to what Justice you delivered the latter.
	P. ¼. Ibid.
	7. To the Mayor of Pembroke.
	Her Majesty has heard that the men of her Majesty's ship Cumberland (Captain Hovendon Walker), which has put into Milford Haven with some of her crew sick, are not allowed to land to refresh themselves and get provisions, whereby they are endangered. Command:—You are to permit them to land and care is to be taken of the sick according to the usual allowance made by the Queen in seaports, "as you will answer at your peril the destroying of her Majesty's seamen now there is so much occasion for them." Report what you do herein.
	P. ½. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 20.
	8. To any of the Queen's Justices near Pembroke.
	Similar to foregoing. Enjoins care for the sick seamen.
	P. ½. Ibid.
27 Dec. Whitehall.	Hedges' Letters.
	1 and 2. To the Prince's Council.
	1. Command:—Send to Sir G. Rooke a copy of the instructions which Sir Cloudesly Shovell gave to the captains of the ships left in the Mediterranean for convoys to the Turkey trade, if it be not already done. Were the instructions prepared for Sir G. Rooke on November 25 last concerning taking care of those ships about the Straights' mouth sent to him ?
	P. ⅓. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 394.
	2. I send an extract of a letter from Mr. Stanhope concerning some arms which are designed to be transported from Rotterdam to Scotland that you may appoint a frigate to cruise and look out for them. The commander to search any ships sailing on such a design, whether under convoy or not, and secure the arms as he shall answer the consequences.
	P. ½. Ibid.
	3. To the Mayor of Newport, Isle of Wight.
	Is it true that several men belonging to Brigadier Harvey's regiment of horse have been imprisoned in Cowes Castle for several hours. If so, report how and why this was done.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 21.
Same.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To the Agent of the packet-boat at Harwich.
	To secure one Mr. or Mrs. Laffell, or Lascell, or some such name, who is coming over with a servant, and his or her papers, even if they have good passes, until you give me notice and have further orders. The messenger has a warrant to seize them if they come. The servant is Irish.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, pp. 388, 389.
	2. To Sir Edward Selwyn.
	Yours of the 23rd; and I have writ to the Lord Keeper to add some of the gentlemen dwelling in Pemsey Rape to the Commission of the Peace, and to my Lord Treasurer about paying the reward pursuant to the proclamation for taking Mr. Boucher; but some person in London should be ordered to receive it.
	I have reason to suspect that the vessels from France come to East Seaford and Eastborne and in those places do particularly address themselves to one William Swan and one Skinner at the Flag and Gun. If you know any person whom you can trust on this occasion and would direct him to observe who comes to those houses and watch those men when they go out towards the coast about those places, you may perhaps be able to do another service to the Queen in seizing some other persons coming out of France and in discovering silk or other prohibited commodities brought in, and the persons who send intelligence thither. Do your best and report.
	P. ²/3. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, pp. 389, 390.
	3. To the Lord Treasurer.
	I enclose letter from Sir Edward Selwyn, giving an account of the person who seized Mr. Boucher, lately coming out of France and committed to Newgate by the House of Lords, so that you may give orders for paying him the reward.
	Note.—Enclosed, Selwyn's [description] of Thomas Lancaster, of South Bourne, fisherman.
	P. 1/4. Ibid, p. 390.
	4. To the Lord Keeper.
	I send extract of a letter from Sir Edward Selwyn, noticing how few persons in the Pemsey division are Justices of the Peace, that your lordship may inform yourself what gentlemen living in that neighbourhood are proper to serve her Majesty in the Commission of the Peace, and give order for adding their names.
	Note of enclosure.
	P. ¼. Ibid.
	5. To Mr. Blathwayt.
	I send an extract from Secretary Southwell. Prepare an order in the usual form for her Majesty's hand for placing the Duke of Ormond's regiment on the establishment.
	Note of enclosure.
	P. 1/6. Ibid.
	6. To Mr. Breton at Dover.
	I am obliged for your news—the first we had—of the fleet's passing by the Goodwin with the King of Spain.
	P. ¼. Ibid, p. 391.
	7. To the Attorney General.
	Command:—Prosecute Mr. Mildmay.
	P. ¹/8. Ibid.
	8. To Mr. Justice Blencowe.
	Sends a letter to be deciphered. Details.
	P. ¹/8. Ibid, p. 389.
28 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to Southwell.
	I am going to Windsor, where the King of Spain is expected to-night. At my return I shall answer your letters. The Queen would have the Lord Lieutenant appoint a fast. The day is left to his Grace. The bills will take time. Short adjournments, to continue Parliament.
	P. ¼. S.P. Ireland, Entry Book 3, p. 164.
28 Dec. Dublin.	Southwell to Nottingham.
	Yours of the 21st. I heartily "congratulate your lordship the public justice done you by the nation in acknowledging the great pains and fidelity your lordship has always exprest in their service. It is not new to your lordship to be persecuted, nor will it, I hope, give your lordship a distast to serving; but, on the contrary, I hope engage your lordship to continue for the sake of your lordship's and her Majesty's truest and firmest friends. The Party had been industrious in writing over last post. 'Twas with great joy they told that the Secretaries were not to be trusted with the examinations. They expected great discoveries, and nodded where it would fall."
	It is writ over that the Papists solicit hard against our Popery bill. Pray have an eye to the despatch of it, because they are all extremely intent thereon, and seem to prefer it before all that are sent over. I hope that now you are pretty well rid of this business you will be able to send away a good many of our bills.
	Redmond Morris' private bill is reckoned by all here to be very just. His father has been heard both at Common Law and Council Board and past here. The Duke is at Kilkenny, and will I think stay there this week: there being very little business here.
	We have three of our Commissioners of the Revenue in a dying way—Captain South, Mr. Vanhomrigh and Mr. Carlton. The two last we expect every day will expire.
	No port news. Details.
	Pp. 2⅓. (Hol.) Endd. S.P. Ireland 363, 163.
28 Dec. Windsor.	Hedges to Sir George Rooke.
	Yours of 27th was laid before the Queen at a Committee of Council to-night, and the enclosed advice was read. I was commanded to send you the enclosed orders for making a detachment under "Mr. Dilks" to intercept some transports with troops intended, it is believed, for Corunna. If this can be accomplished, it is deemed a very extraordinary service, and practicable without much diminishing the King of Spain's convoy. I have already told you that her Majesty intends to make up her quota for Portugal to thirty ships. I believe there will not be any larger number of her ships in one body this year, and I hope you will command them. As to the Portugal flag, that is "a matter which is never like to bear, since the Portuguese are not capable of setting out but a very few ships, and, if we are rightly informed, they are willing to submit to an expedient, and to soften the article relating to the flag in the execution of it," if ever there should be occasion, and you will consider whether it be proper to raise difficulties in a case which, morally speaking, can never happen. The orders sent you and the speedy return of the King of Spain seem to require your presence on board the fleet, so that there is no thoughts of seeing you in town. The King intends to return to you on Friday. I wish you a prosperous voyage.
	P. 1. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 108, 109.
	Enclosing:—
	News from Rochelle, dated 13 December.
	Orders have come from the Court to have seventeen vessels of this harbour, on which it is intended to embark soldiers which come to be transported to Spain. They will surely disembark at Corunna. I have already told you that there were merchant vessels there ready to leave. It is said they must all be ready at the end of the month, but without having them careened or fitted as is usual for long voyages. Great preparation is being made both of salted provisions and munitions. To these seventeen vessels will be joined six or eight storeships of Rochefort and three of the King's ships for an escort. Two days ago three vessels passed in sight of this port into the road. They are said to have come from Brest to serve for the passage of the said troops. They anchored at the Isle de Dieu.
	P. ¾. Ibid, pp. 109, 110.
	Instructions to Sir George Rooke.
	Add to your squadron the Newark, Expedition, Woolwich, Advice and Antelope. Have them provided at once for four months, and, if they want their highest complement of men, make them up out of the marines on shore in Hanls, or on board any of our ships which come with Sir Cloudesty Shovell out of the Mediterranean. If there are not enough marines you are then to make drafts out of the said [lastmentioned] ships of such a number of men as shall be sufficient for the purpose. We have thus increased your squadron in order that you may be the better able at once to detach six ships and one or two fireships under the command of Rear-Admiral Dilkes with orders to use every endeavour to intercept and destroy the men-of-war and transports of the enemy mentioned in the enclosed [foregoing] account. They are to proceed on this errand without losing a moment. When they have done their utmost to perform this service, you are to direct them to join you at Lisbon or such other rendezvous as you shall judge most proper.
	And whereas Anthony Hammond, Esq., has been ordered to pay up to 1 July last at Portsmouth such ships of your squadron as have wages due to them beyond that time; we think it likewise requisite that you direct him to pay any men who may be drawn by you from Sir C. Shovell's squadron such pay as is due to them up to that date. Words of warranty.
	Pp. 1¼. Overwritten with Royal Sign Manual (copy). Directed (in a different hand) to Sir George Rooke &c., &c., or, in his absence, to the Commander-in-Chief of the fleet at Spithead. Ibid, pp. 110, 111.
29 Dec.	William Courtney to Nottingham.
	Had I found favour with your lordship, I could have found out much from the French emissaries who are now conspiring against the Queen and people. I have to say that there is a scheme for Captain Meers to escape from the Gatehouse, and that the jailor is to be bribed to-day to leave him without irons. He was my fellow officer in King James' time, when in the Savoy he and Hurly were sent to speak with me. Hurly gave me money to bribe a certain person, who would help in his escape. I refused to take money. They desired me to send them my tailor, for they desired to bespeak two scarlet suits; and when I asked "Why scarlet?" they said they would soon have occasion for them in Scotland, to which country they would go at once. If favoured, I could have found out more about the designs of the conspirators, who have scattered through the country to kindle an unnatural war.
	P.S.—Lally, who escaped from the messengers in Maiden Lane, is now in Dublin, as is Colonel Pow'r. Lally goes by the name of Davis. Expressions of loyalty. They are jealous of Sir John Maclean, and all think he made a discovery to your lordship.
	Pp. 2½. (Hol.) Add. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 70.
30 Dec. Windsor.	Nottingham's Letters.
	1. To Commissioner Roope.
	Yours of 27 Dec. If you find the soldiers and women embarked for Portugal are too much crowded, you may use another ship [details] to relieve them.
	P. 1/5. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 104, p. 391. Also a similar letter. Ibid. 209, p. 120.
	2. To Sir George Rooke.
	I am sorry there is need of men or anything else to retard the King of Spain's voyage. I hope by this time you will have heard from the Prince's Council of their proposals for manning your squadron, and also other ships designed for other services; but surely, even with only your middle complement, it is safe to sail. On this occasion there is absolute necessity for it, that the King of Spain may not be delayed; and what men are needed to complete " the equipage (fn. 9) " of your squadron may be sent on by such ships as are designed to follow you to Lisbon. And as, owing to transports being left in Holland, there wants (as Mr. Roope writes) some embarkation for the troops and recruits, you may take many of them on board the men-of-war which want men, and help the carrying of the troops. These must go with you without fail, "now so many are wanting of what we expected from Holland both of our own and the Dutch forces."
	P.S.—I believe a man of less figure than Sir Andrew Leake would be sufficient to go to Tangier, since I apprehend no more than a single ship is designed for that service.
	P. ¾. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 121.
30 Dec. Windsor.	Hedges to Sir George Rooke.
	Yours of the 29th arrived about noon to-day. (fn. 10) The Queen is much surprised to hear that there is any doubt about the fleet's being ready to sail whenever the King of Spain shall go on board. As to the want of men, her Majesty assumes that by reason of your late orders (fn. 11) that defect is supplied, and repeats her orders to you for taking the men you want, that you may sail as soon as the King of Spain returns, which will be on Saturday. The Queen relies on your care to avoid all delay, and hopes to hear from the Duke of Somerset, who is to attend his Majesty to the fleet, that everything is in readiness. Her Majesty desires further a report from you as to the true state of the fleet and transports, what defects there are, and how they have been supplied, and what you desire to be sent after you.
	P. 1. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 208, pp. 112, 113.
31 Dec. Whitehall.	Nottingham to Sir George Rooke.
	I send a box for Ambassador Methuen. Send it to him as soon as you get into the river of Lisbon, so that it may be delivered to him some time before the King of Spain's landing.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 121.
Same.	Hedges' Letters.
	1. To the Prince's Council.
	Sir G. Rooke writes that he has no knowledge of any marines in Hampshire and no power to give them orders. Let me know if any such directions or powers have been sent him since Tuesday last.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 204, p. 395.
	2. To Sir George Rooke.
	Yours of yesterday. I understand from the Admiralty Office you have already sufficient orders about the Marines. Her Majesty has been acquainted with the other parts of your letter; but has given no directions.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 105, p. 22. Ibid. 208, p. 113.
31 Dec. Royal Catherine, off Spithead.	Sir George Rooke to Nottingham.
	Yours of yesterday. (fn. 12) You may remember how often I said at the Cockpit that the King of Spain would be disappointed in his convoy whenever he came. It will always be so when commanders-in-chief have not the charge of the ships with which they are to go on service. Your lordship speaks of sending the squadron at their middle complement. If this is ordered, I must submit to it, "but it is what I shall never advise nor consent to, for a small number of seamen, many soldiers and the King of Spain's retinue, mixt together, will make your ships hospitals and render them defenceless in a few days." Besides, when Dilkes' squadron has sailed here are only nine men-of-war left, and two at Plymouth; I think no one can advise but to leave some clear ships to defend those that are "pestered."
	Sir Andrew Leake has no character, and is only captain of a private ship, but I hope that matter is already settled.
	Pp. 1¼. Signed. Endd. S.P. Dom., Naval 118, 143.
31 Dec.	Richard Colinge to [Hedges].
	The Lord President promised to ask for the Queen's favour for my petition, which I presented to you. Pray have it read, whereby I may have the Queen's pleasure on it and his lordship's favour.
	P. ¾ (small). Endd. in Hedges' [?] hand. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 71.
Dec.	Note of [Richard Warre] to the Post Office.
	To stop all letters from Scotland or Holland to Mr. Dunster or Mr. Ogilby.
	A note. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 146, p. 20.
Dec.	Note for the Divident for December, 1703.
	The figures in the left column make up to 4l. 6s. 8d.; those on the right to 21l. 6s. 8d.
	P. 1. Endd. S.P. Dom., Anne 3, 72.
29 Nov. Whitehall.	Nottingham (fn. 13) to the Prince's Council.
	Orders prosecution of John Decise, alias Cecill, for desertion, or such other offence as the evidence justifies.
	Detailed note of evidence enclosed.
	P. ¼. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 209, p. 116.