Charles I - volume 74: August 15-24, 1627

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1627-28. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1858.

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'Charles I - volume 74: August 15-24, 1627', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1627-28, (London, 1858) pp. 296-311. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas1/1627-8/pp296-311 [accessed 26 March 2024]

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August 15–24, 1627.

Aug. 15. 1. Inventory, by Sir John Drake, of the Duke's tenths of various prizes brought into Weymouth, Plymouth, and other western ports.
Aug. 15.
Bagshot.
Sec. Conway to Mr. Popham. That, seeing he hath taken no course to satisfy his creditors, the grant to them can be stayed no longer. [Minute, Conway's Letter Book, p. 279.]
Aug. 15.
Whitehall.
2. Sec. Coke to Sec. Conway. Sends letters of Lord Carleton respecting the business of Amboyna, and information that the French are about to carry away their four ships built at Amsterdam. Sir Henry Mervyn thinks the defence of the Channel Islands, and the interception of these ships, to belong to him under his commission of Admiral of the Narrow Seas. Suggests a way of dealing which may be satisfactory to Sir Henry, and also to the Earl of Danby. Progress made in sending away supplies and reinforcements to the Duke. Sends proclamation to be signed, and also warrant for Sir Maurice Abbot.
Aug. 15.
Whitehall.
3. The same to the same. Claus Garretson went from Cowes on the 4th inst., so he could not have been at Bordeaux as he pretends on July 29, nor is the rest of his story true.
Aug. 15.
Whitehall.
4. John Dickenson to the same. The Lord Treasurer and Sec. Coke will divide between them the businesses of which Lord Conway had written. The 400 men are to be at Southampton on the 20th inst.; the 2,000 at Plymouth by September 10.
Aug. 15.
Canon Row.
5. Nicholas to the same. Acknowledges the letter respecting Claus Garretson, but doubts his story. Gerbier has applied, that the Mary Rose might fetch over the Savoy Ambassador. Suggeststhat the States should be requested to send him over in one of their men-of-war, and the Mary Rose be sent under Sir Henry Mervyn to the Channel Islands, according to the Duke's instructions to Sir Henry, of which he has sent a copy to Sec. Coke. The Lord Treasurer tells him that order has been taken for the 14,000l. for Sir William Becher, and promises the 6,000l. for the victualler every day; but no money comes. The Duke's officers have advanced the latter 2,700l. that the service may not be delayed. If the remainder be not paid, the service will fail, and the Duke be disappointed.
Aug. 15. Copy of the same. [Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 32.]
Aug. 15.
Dover Castle.
6. Sir John Hippisley to Nicholas. He knows there is an outguard belonging to Dover Castle, which, in Nicholas's time, never did any service. Sir John has brought them to do service; but the persons whose names are inclosed refuse. Desires they may be sent for by the Council. War is proclaimed against us in France. Incloses,
6. i. Names above mentioned: Richard Thurstone, Henry Brodnor, James Cullen, and George Batchelor.
Aug. 15.
Colchester.
7. Edward Nuttall to the same. Reports two small prizes taken on that coast. Wishes for an answer on a business proposed before the Duke's departure, which is likely to produce the King 100,000l. per annum.
Aug. 15.
Portsmouth.
8. Sir Henry Palmer to the same. At his coming down, found none of the victual aboard. On Friday hopes to have it all in. Has but 96 men aboard. Has sent out the Spy to get men out of the men-of-war at St. Helen's and Stokes Bay. French fleet returning from Newfoundland. News by Mr. Stanford, landed there on Saturday. Wishes him to let him know what it is. Sir Peter Osborne says, that at St. Malo and Newhaven they are ready for an attempt on the Channel Islands.
Aug. 15.
Camp, at St. Martin's.
9. Thomas Symonds to the same. News received from a Frenchman who lately came out of Spain. Siege of Mamora by the Moors, and preparation of a large army at Lisbon. Advance of the French upon Rochelle. Circumstances of the siege: attempt at assassination, poisoning of the wells, completion of the trenches, families of the besieged turned out of St. Martin. Hopes by the next messenger to send news of the Duke's triumphant conquest.
[Aug. 15.] 10. An abbreviate observation of his Majesty's fleet, and what happened on the voyage to the Isle of Rhé and at St. Martin's up to about this time. It is probably a copy. It has been examined, and in some places corrected, by Nicholas.
Aug. 15. 11. Estimate of the charge for setting forth ships to transport 2,000 soldiers, and repairs and victuals for the Charles. Total, 3,717l. 10s.
Aug. 15. Copy of the same. [See 1627, September 21, Vol. lxxix., No. 10.]
[Aug. 16.] 12. Minutes of petitions to be presented to the King. They are from Dr. Chambers, for diet in court; from Portsmouth, for a brief for rebuilding their church; from John Randall, B.D.; Mr. Godfrey, sending a preamble for insertion in the grant of his pension; Gregory Isham, and Capt. Oliver St. John.
[Aug. 16.] 13. Copy of the foregoing, with the addition of a petition from Sir Robert Harley, that persons engaged in the manufacture of gold and silver thread, who refused to confer with him thereon according to a commission under the Great Seal, should be sent for by the Council; also from James Mylles, Clerk of the Privy Seal, for payments to him for attending upon the service of the loan.
[Aug. 16.] 14. Draft of grant of pension of 100l. per annum to Robert Godfrey, containing probably the preamble alluded to in his petition mentioned in the two preceding papers.
Aug. 16.
Bagshot.
15. Sec. Conway to Sir William Becher. Recommends Mr. Cotton for employment in the troops to be sent to the Duke. Despatches from the Duke received on Sunday last at Court. The King's great anxiety for quickening the departure of the expeditions. Preparations going on vigorously, but no assurance of certain payment of the moneys. False report of the capture of the citadel of St. Martin brought by a Dutch captain. If Conway could turn his affection to the Duke into power he should not doubt to effect anything. [Copy.]
Aug. 16. Minute of the above. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 279.]
Aug. 16.
Bagshot.
16. The same to Nicholas. The King wants copies of the commissions that have been given to the colonels and officers, with an account of the pay to the troops under the Duke's command. If he can give satisfaction on these points he is requested to do so immediately.
Aug. 16. Nicholas to John Ellzey. Gives directions as to the sale of the Duke's tenths of various prizes, and urges expedition. [Copy, Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 31.]
Aug. 16. The same to Sir John Hippisley. Is exceedingly perplexed with the delays of the Lord Treasurer, who pays so slowly for provisions to be sent to the Duke, that Nicholas is fain to complain of him at Court, and has vexed him extremely. Hopes the supply will go this week. Sends blank warrants for appointment of droit gatherers. Wonders John Jacob should say that he had their appointment. If Sir John will send a copy of the warrant for repairing landing places, it shall be done as he would have it. Wonders who should give out that there is like to be a Parliament; no sign of any likelihood of one. Purposes to wait on him in hawking time. Sends relation of news brought by Lewis Beeson, the Duke's yeoman, who arrived on Monday. Rumour of the Dutchman not believed. Sir John is prayed to amend the irregular sale of corn by Capt. Burley at Yarmouth, I. W. [Copy, ibid., p. 28.]
Aug. 16. Nicholas to Sir Henry Marten. By direction of Sec. Coke sends names of witnesses who can prove that Thomas Rockwell, master of the St. Claude, and one Hayes, his mate, have embezzled provisions and furniture of that ship. Prays him to cause the parties to be examined. [Copy, Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 28.]
Aug. 16.
Plymouth.
17. Sir James Bagg to Nicholas. The parties Mr. Smyth came for are crying and penitent men; bonds are taken for their appearance. Provisions sent off to the Duke; sent also 54 mariners in the Susanna; 90 [100 ?] should have gone, but 46 fled after eating his Majesty's victuals for seven weeks. Calls for their punishment, or farewell to all service and officers. The Earl of Warwick became bail for Parkhurst. He is still in his old way to countenance offenders.
Aug. 16. 18. John Ellzey to the same. Prizes brought into Portsmouth and Cowes by ships of the Earl of Lindsey, Sir James Bagg, Sir John Hippisley, and Roy, of Weymouth. Irregular sale of corn by Capt. Burley, the commander of Sir John Hippisley's ship, complained of as injurious to the Duke.
Aug. 16. 19. Robert Long to the same. Sends warrant for payment of 1,100l. or 1,200l. to the victualler, and hopes they shall conclude for 3,000l. more for him that morning. There was never business whereof his Lord [the Lord Treasurer] was so solicitously careful as of this. Doubts not of the speedy conclusion of the business, in spite of the iniquity of the times, and all other difficulties.
Aug. 16.
Bristol.
20. William Willett to the same. Reports prize affairs at Bristol. A French ship from the banks of Newfoundland, and another from Viana to the West Indies, brought in as prizes.
Aug. 16.
Highnam.
21. Sir Miles Fleetwood to George Coles. Postponing his coming to Roche on the business of the disafforestation until after Michaelmas Term, on account of an accident.
[Aug. 17 ?]
Bagshot.
22. The King to the Master and Fellows of a College unnamed. To pre-elect Gregory Isham, B.A., to a fellowship in the second place, notwithstanding he was not born in the county required by the Statutes. [Draft.]
[Aug. 17 ?] 23. Another draft, probably suggested, of part of the preceding letter.
[Aug. 17 ?] 24. Petition of Sir Walter Erle to the Council. Being, by their order, close prisoner in the Fleet, he is made the more sensible of their displeasure. He is clear of any intention to give offence, wherein he hopes to give them further satisfaction whenever they shall be pleased to afford him the favour to give answer to the informations which have caused his restraint. Prays that his cause may be taken into their consideration.
Aug. 17.
Bagshot.
25. Sec. Conway to Sec. Coke. Forwards the King's directions on the points raised on Sec. Coke's letter of the 15th inst. The King mislikes the attempt to justify the business of Amboyna, and expects speedy and round justice. As to the French ships, the King thinks a proposal of Gerbier "for somewhat to be done in the harbours," not consonant to the law of nations, but he would have ways resolved on and put in execution to intercept them. Lord Danby will go to his government, and his sea commission may rest for the present. Returns proclamation signed, and warrant for Sir Maurice Abbot unsigned, not having the Treasurer's hand to it, which is a mark between the King and the Lord Treasurer. The King's occupation in hunting has delayed this letter. [Copy.]
Aug. 17. Minute of the above. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 279.]
Aug. 17.
Bagshot.
26. The same to the same. The King is pleased that the bearer Capt. Oliver St. John have the command of the Phœnix in conformity with a promise of the Duke. He is an ancient experienced captain, and has a pension of 10s. per day in Ireland, which is 1,500l. in arrear. [Copy.]
Aug. 17. Minute of the above. [Ibid.]
Aug. 17.
Whitehall.
27. John Dickenson [to Sec. Conway]. Sends copy of the establishment for pay of the five regiments, and also of the train of artillery, from the Council book.
Aug. 17.
Canon Row.
28. Nicholas to the same. Sends list of entertainments allowed to the Duke's army, and form of commissions given to officers. Has 13 blank commissions for captains, signed by the Duke. Incloses,
28. i. List of entertainments above mentioned.
Aug. 17.
Westward.
29. Deputy Lieutenants of Cumberland to [Henry Lord Clifford]. According to directions, they have levied 100 men for the King's service. On assembling, eight were found lacking, the rest were delivered to Ambrose Topping, conductor. The county of Cumberland by recent taxation and loans, and by strange cold seasons and other means, is grown so poor that most of the able men are gone elsewhere, whereby men are hardly to be got for husbandry work. Inclose,
29. i. Return of names of 92 men levied in Cumberland, and delivered to Ambrose Topping, to be conducted to Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Aug. 17. 30. Return of names and addresses of 100 men levied in co. Devon, to be employed in Guernsey and Jersey, and delivered to Samuel Barnard and William Foord, to be conducted to Southampton.
Aug. 17. 31. Return of names and addresses of 46 men levied in co. Dorset, and delivered to Captain John Prust, to be conducted to Southampton.
[Aug. 17 ?] 32. Names of those that are witnesses against Rockwell and Hayes, charged with selling King's stores out of the St. Claude. [Probably the draft of the note mentioned in the letter of Thomas Wyan, of August 18, 1627.]
Aug. 17. 33. Proposal of Mr. Wolverston for such a rectification of the coinage as may prevent other states from overreaching us in the currency of our moneys.
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
Proclamation, giving permission for the transportation of provisions for the service of the English army in the Isle of Rhé. [Coll. Procs., Car. I., No. 69.]
Aug. 18.
Liskeard.
34. Deputy Lieutenants of Cornwall to the Council. They have levied 100 men, and delivered them over, according to the inclosed indenture. Inclose,
34. i. Return of the names of 100 foot, levied in co. Cornwall, and delivered to John Patchcott and Walter Daniell, to be conducted to Southampton.
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
Sec. Conway to Sir William Balfour. His Majesty likes well of the Earl of Morton's choice of him to be his Lieutenant Colonel, and has written to the States to dispense with his absence for a time. [Minute, Conway's Letter Book, p. 279.]
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
The same to Sir Philip Carteret. To send some discreet men into France, to give intelligence, with promise of good reward. [Minute, ibid.]
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
35. The same to Sec. Coke. Sir David Boswell having complained to the King of wrong done to him by a false accusation of having sold away the tackling of his ship, Sec. Coke is to examine the same, and, if found groundless, his ship is to be restored to him, and to go with the rest for France.
Aug. 18. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 276.]
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
36. The same to Lord Keeper Coventry. The King recommends to his consideration a petition of the town of Portsmouth for a brief for collections towards the repair of their church.
Aug. 18. Minute of the above. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 276.]
Aug. 18.
Bagshot.
The same to Attorney General Heath. To prepare grants of the place of Serjeant of the Hawks to Lewis Latham, with 65l. per annum, and of the place he had of Falconer to Richard Berrick. [Ibid, p. 279.]
Aug. 18.
Tottenham.
37. Sec. Coke to Sec. Conway. Is surprised at not having received an answer to his packet, sent to Lord Conway on the Wednesday preceding, containing Lord Carleton's letters and other things. Sends letters from Newcastle, and hopes the troops are before this safely arrived in Germany. Sir William Becher has, no doubt, informed the King in what forwardness all things are. The Council are surprised that the King has been pressed by apetition from the Earl of Lincoln, as recommended by the Board. They know nothing of any such recommendation, and wish the subject should be investigated. If any particular man has offered any such petition in the name of the Council, it is fit such abuse should be reformed.
Aug. 18.
Tottenham.
38. Sec. Coke to Sec. Conway. The bearer, Mr. Bassano, son-in-law of Francis Morice, Deputy Lieutenant of the Ordnance, brings a draft of a Privy Seal for payment of moneys due for the present services of Mr. Morice, for the King's signature.
Aug. 18.
His Lodge, at the Little Park.
39. Richard Graham to the same. Request him to appoint Jack Graham, an ensign, in the place of Ensign Maddison, and to make the latter a Lieutenant. Prays him to make known to the King, that Capt. Witham was promised employment by the Duke.
Aug. 18. 40. Robert Long to Nicholas. Wishes him to procure a fresh order for payment of 500l. to the officers of the reformed regiments. The farmers of the petty farms, from whom the money to be sent to the Duke is to come, are so scrupulous that the money cannot be obtained sooner than on Wednesday and Thursday next. The Lord Treasurer wishes to know the latest time that can be given for it. The delay will prove the less prejudicial because the wind is adverse. Sir William Becher cannot embark till it turns. The money demanded for the 2,000 men to be sent to the Duke was at first 7,700l. There is now a surcharge of 6,700l. more; this makes the work much more difficult, but with willing minds, and faithful endeavours, he need not despair of success.
Aug. 18. 41. Thomas Wyan to the same. Warrants have been sent for Rockwell and West and the witnesses mentioned in his note. Insufficiency of the evidence. Capt. Tinker, one of the captains employed by Sir John Savile, has sent in a small French bark, without goods; what is to be done with her?
[Aug. 19.] 42. Petition of Bishop Field, elect of St. Davids, to the King. By the last great tempest, the church of Brecknock, which the Bishop of St. David's is tied to repair, was damaged to the extent of 140l., and the mansion houses of the see, in consequence of long vacancy, have grown into decay. Prays that he may have the temporalties of the see since the last translation, and be allowed a living in commendam. Indorsed is a minute by Sec. Conway, that the King granted the petition, the temporalties being restored from July 10 last.
Aug. 19.
Dover Castle.
43. Sir John Hippisley to Nicholas. Sends letters for the Duke, and for Sir John's wife. His ships have brought in four Dutch ships, laden with prohibited articles, bound for France. Prays him to get a proclamation [prohibiting the carrying of goods contraband of war into France].
Aug. 19.
Aboard the Mary Rose, in the Downs.
44. Capt. Francis Sydenham to the same. Begs to know whether he should act on Gerbier's request to go for the Savoy Ambassador or should go to Guernsey and Jersey. Fight off Dunkirk. Prizesbrought in by Sir John Hippisley's ships. These Flemings are such cunning fellows that he doubts they will hardly make them prizes, but they have met with as cunning men as themselves.
Aug. 20.
Bagshot.
45. General letter from the King to various cities and towns, encouraging them to advance money to enable Sir John Brooke and Thomas Russell to carry on a royal privilege granted to them for procuring saltpetre, without the inconveniences then common. The money advanced was to be laid out in the erection of works, and to be repaid out of the first profits.
Aug. 20.
Bagshot.
46. Promise and undertaking of the King, that, on immediate payment by Sir John Wolstenholme and others, farmers of the petty customs, of the sum of 12,000l., he will perform a contract entered into with them for a release of all past claims, and a grant of one year more, as soon as the same can be drawn, engrossed, and passed under the Great Seal. [Draft, in the handwriting of Attorney General Heath.]
Aug. 20.
Ansley.
47. Sir George Chaworth to the King. Sends proposal for raising money by calling upon persons bound to provide horse or armour for the trained bands, to provide the same immediately, or to pay to the King certain moneys in lieu thereof. Incloses,
47. i. Proposal above mentioned.
47. ii. Note of the result, if the nobility were excluded. He takes the muster roll of horse to be about 10,000, and computes the gentry as supplying one half that number.
Aug. 20.
Bagshot.
Sec. Conway to the Council. That the merchants of Edinburgh, at their own charge, be provided of certain ordnance and munition for the furnishing of nine ships, and that their Lordships send it with a good convoy. [Minute, Conway's Letter Book, p. 279.]
Aug. 20.
Harlow.
48. Commissioners for the Loan for the division of Ongar, Harlow, and Waltham, in Essex, to the same. Have endeavoured to procure the amounts due from the defaulters, but in vain. Return a general accompt taken from the several collectors.
Aug. 20.
Against Broomsbottle, in the Elbe.
49. Sir Sackville Trevor and Capt. George Alleyne to Buckingham. The King of Denmark has forbidden them to search the Hamburgh ships, bound for Spain, the merchants putting in security not to send prohibited goods. On the 12th, received the Duke's instructions to go to the northwards, and look for the French between Buchan Ness and the Orkneys. Many of the Hamburgh ships, which have unfree goods in them, intend to go to the northwards, and are resolved to fight rather than be searched. The writers will bring them under their lee, or they shall sink them by their sides. This day they are falling down over the flats at the mouth of the Elbe. [Copy]
[Aug 20 ?] 50. Henry Lord Clifford to Sec. Conway. Received his packet of the 14th, at afternoon, at Lord Exeter's, at Snape; at the same time, received the inclosed out of Northumberland. Is assured, thatif there were any imminent danger of invasion, Lord Conway has heard of it long before this. Intends to look towards Northumberland on the morrow, and, if necessary, will write to Lord Conway from time to time. Incloses,
50. i. Sir John Fenwick to Earl of Cumberland and Henry Lord Clifford, Lord Lieutenants of Cumberland, Norththumberland, and Westmoreland. Sends a letter, which requires haste. Incloses,
50. i. 1. William Muschamp to Sir John Fenwick. Has received advertisement from the Mayor of Berwick, that the Spaniards have landed at Caithness, where they put all to the sword, and that many of their ships are on this coast, and have sunk many ships in their passage southward. It is reported they will put in at Berwick or Holy Island. Requests military assistance.
Aug. 20.
Bagshot.
51. Bishop Laud, of Bath and Wells, to Sec. Conway. He yesterday moved the petition of the Bishop elect of St. David's to the King, who granted the same, and gave the writer power to signify the same to Lord Conway.
Aug. 20. 52. Deputy Lieutenants of the Isle of Wight to the same. Hoped to have seen him in their island to have rectified divers things, and, among them, a dispute with Mr. Dillington, who, being the ancientest captain of the East Medine, claimed to have his colours fly in the first place. The writers insist on the ancient custom of marshalling their colours according to rank and quality, and call upon Lord Conway to decide the question.
Aug. 20.
The Broomsbottle, in the River Elbe.
53. Capt. Thomas Bardsey to Nicholas. Announces his arrival in the Elbe, where he found Sir Sackville [Trevor]. Landed Mr. Clarke. Intends to dispute the passage of a fleet bound for Spain.
Aug. 20.
Aldborough.
54. Capt. Henry Cheyney to the same. On the 13th inst. he recaptured from the French a Scottish vessel called the Isabel, and brought her into Aldborough, with 8 Frenchmen and 2 Scots on board. Desires instructions what to do with her and them. The former owner, William Williamson, a Scot, offered 100l. for the restoration of his ship.
Aug. 20.
Ashdon.
55. Dr. Thomas Paske to the same. Cannot appoint Dr. Zouch, the Duke's advocate, to the officiality held by Dr. Aylmer, for which the Duchess of Buckingham and the Bishop of London had applied to him, having previously bestowed the same on Dr. Mutlow. "You know the humour of us Athenians, we all long after news."
Aug. 20.
Dover Castle.
56. Sir John Hippisley to all Constables and other officers. Pass for Arthur Elidge, Augustine Davies, Marmaduke Reason, Richard Nichols, and John Palmer, prisoners returned from Dunkirk, to travel to London to Sir John Coke.
Aug. 21.
Southampton.
57. Deputy Lieutenants of Hants to the Council. Are, at Southampton, to impress 50 men, and to billet the men appointed to be lodged there; those, out of Middlesex, Dorsetshire, and other counties, are paid only to this day. The town refuses to receive the men unless the Deputy Lieutenants will undertake to pay the billeters. The amount is 100l., which they are unable to pay. Request assistance.
Aug. 21.
Acle.
58. Commissioners for the Loan in the hundreds of Blofield, Walsham, and Happing, in Norfolk, to the same. Send schedule of names of persons in those three hundreds who are unable to lend the sums imposed on them. Inclose,
58. i. Schedule before mentioned.
Aug. 21.
Acle.
59. The same to the same. Summoned the defaulters who were presumed able to lend, but they did not attend. Have consequently rendered them over to the King's messenger, Edward Wickens. Inclose,
59. i. Copy of warrant of the Commissioners by which the persons under named were directed to render themselves to the King's messenger.
Aug. 21. 60. Commissioners for the Loan in the hundreds of North and South Erpingham, Holt and Eynsford in Norfolk, to Lord Keeper Coventry, and the rest of the Council. Send certificate of the returns of the collectors, with their deductions, and the names and amounts of the defaulters. Inclose,
60. i. Certificate before mentioned.
Aug. 21. 61. The same to the Council. Further letter, rectifying mistakes in the return for the hundred of Eynsford.
Aug. 21. 62. Edward Earl of Dorset to [Buckingham]. Recommends some one to his service. Shall envy Lord Holland when he "shall have the happiness to enjoy" the Duke. When that Lord leaves England the Duke will not have a servant left more true or ready than the Earl to execute his commands. [Fragment.]
Aug. 21.
Bagshot.
63. Sec. Conway to Sir William Becher. Sends questions concerning the salt in the isles [of Rhé, and the others of that group], to be presented to the Duke of Buckingham, that his Majesty may receive information what is fit to be ordered in that business. [Copy.]
Aug. 21. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 21.
Bagshot.
64. The same to Sir John Coke. Recommends Lieut. Sutton for appointment as Quartermaster of the troops that are now to go.
Aug. 21. Minute of the same. [Ibid.]
Aug. 21.
Bagshot.
The same to Sec. Coke. Seeing the Phœnix is not ready for service on the coast of Ireland, Capt. St. John is to have the command of the ship appointed in her place. [Minute, ibid.]
Aug. 21.
Bagshot.
65. Sec. Conway to Sec. Coke. The King is pleased that Lieut. Frodsham be appointed under Capt. Jackson, and if the captain be not there to receive the company, Lieut. Frodsham is to take charge thereof until he come.
Aug. 21. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 21.
Bagshot.
The same to the same. Similar letter for Lieut. Fox to be appointed Lieutenant of Capt. Yorke's company. [Minute, ibid.]
Aug. 21. 66. Minutes of the three preceding letters.
Aug. 21.
Aldershot.
67. The same to Sir Thomas Wilson. To send Oliver Luke, impressed, and for safe custody committed to the Gatehouse, to the Court at that place.
Aug. 21. Minute of the same. [Ibid.]
Aug. 21.
Aldershot.
The same to the Bailiffs and Aldermen of Yarmouth. Pressing for an answer to his Majesty's letters about Mr. Neve. [Ibid.]
Aug. 21.
Portsmouth, in the house of Mr. Jennings.
68. Sir William Becher to Sec. Conway. Particulars of arrangement made for reception and maintenance of the troops at Southampton. But he is much afflicted to hear no news of the ships with the victuals nor the money. Intreats the King to hasten them away. Begs to have sent to him the King's letters, and those of Lord Conway, and the Lord Chamberlain, and Lord Holland, for the Duke. Lady Hatton has sent from Purbeck six able men furnished from top to toe. [On the fly leaf of this letter is a minute of a letter from Sec. Conway to the King, respecting the above letter. He thinks the arrangement made by Sir William Becher respecting the troops should be carried out. The King's letters were sent from Bagshot.]
Aug. 21.
London.
69. Sec. Coke to the same. Sends a letter received by the Secretary of the Merchant Adventurers from Hamburgh, announcing the passage of the Elbe by Tilly, and demands made by him upon the city of Hamburgh. Desires to know what advice shall be given to the merchants thereon. States his own opinion that the ships in the Elbe should bring away our merchants' goods, and join in stopping the exportation of prohibited commodities.
Aug. 21.
Plymouth.
70. Sir Ferdinando Gorges to the same. Sends intelligence of preparations in France for attack upon Guernsey and Jersey, or, as the writer suspects, to strike some blow upon us "that are straggled abroad, before we have armed ourselves for our own defence." Urges the repair of fortifications and supply of stores.
Aug. 21.
Southampton.
71. John Ellzey to Nicholas. Reports intelligence of prizes brought into Southampton and the Isle of Wight, with disputes respecting the Duke's tenths, and measures taken by him for enforcing the payment thereof. The Mayor of Yarmouth had tendered him a tenth of the proceeds of the corn sold by Capt. Burley, which he had refused, and had given him notice to retain the whole amount in his hands.
Aug. 21. 72. Certificate of the Collectors of the loan for Havering-atBower, in Essex, that Robert Freeman has had great losses in his cattle, and is but a poor man.
Aug. 22.
Canbury.
Commission to William Earl of Devonshire, William Viscount Mansfield, Sir Richard Harpur, Sir Francis Coke, Christopher Falwood, Nicholas Browne, and Edward Revell, to treat with the miners in co. Derby for the sale of their ore to the King, at a certain price, in order that the silver might be extracted therefrom. [Coll. Sign Man., Car. I., Vol. iii., No. 53.] Annexed,
i. Return of the Commissioners, dated September 25, 1627, and containing propositions made by the owners of the soil of the mines in co. Derby, showing the inconvenience of selling their ore to one buyer, at a certain price, and the impossibility of determining such price.
Aug. 22.
Chatsworth.
73. William Earl of Devonshire to the Council. The 50 soldiers were imprested yesterday, and are this day marched towards Plymouth. They will be there three or four days before the 10th, which in such a long march he deemed best. Incloses,
73. i. Return of their names, addresses, and descriptions. They were delivered to John Draycott, conductor. [See Vol. xlvi., No. 14.]
Aug. 22.
Aldershot.
74. Sec. Conway to Sec. Coke. He is to assemble the Council, and take their opinion on the case of the Hamburgh merchants, and to report the same to the King. His Majesty is much troubled to understand from Sir William Becher, that there is no news of the ships with victuals, nor of the money, at Portsmouth, and has commanded Lord Conway to represent to the Lord Treasurer and the Chancellor of the Exchequer his sense of these neglects, and his express commandment for present remedy. Order is to be sent to the Deputy Lieutenants of Hants for some disbursements ordered by Sir William Becher. [Copy.]
Aug. 22. Minute of the above. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 22.
Aldershot.
The same to the Lord Treasurer and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. To hasten the ships and money to Portsmouth to Sir William Becher, and giving account how he has disposed of the 400 men. [Minute; ibid.]
Aug. 22.
Aldershot.
75. The same to Lord Treasurer Marlborough. This progress he has had occasion to observe many faults among the posts, and, when questioned, their general answer is, that they are not able to perform the service for want of pay, whereof they are divers years in arrear. The bearer, the postmaster of Hartford Bridge, is six or seven years in arrear, whilst a new stage from Alton to Portsmouth has brought upon him such an increase of charge, that he has been obliged to sell his cattle and other goods. Being now in great want, he desires one year's pay. His case recommended for consideration. [Copy.]
Aug. 22. Minute of the above. [Ibid.]
Aug. 22.
Portsmouth.
76. Sir William Becher to Sec. Conway. Acknowledges the receipt of the King's letters, and the memorial about salt, and sends a letter of importance to be forwarded to Sir William Russell.
Aug. 22.
Tottenham.
77. Sec. Coke to the same. Sent in his last a letter from the Hamburgh merchants, and the bill for Sir Maurice Abbot, with the Lord Treasurer's mark. Now sends letters from the Duke of Holstein, the senate of Lubeck, and from Rostock, brought by the Secretary of Lubeck, who has come to this country to complain of the taking of their ships. Has required a written statement of his complaints, which he proposes to refer to the Judge of the Admiralty.
Aug. 22.
Shillingham.
78. Sir Richard Buller to Lord President Manchester. On the 19th ult., received a warrant for payment of the county composition in money and kind, and now a warrant requiring his attendance, with certain other gentlemen. Is uncertain of the cause, but thinks it is concerning the loan. Explains his proceedings therein. Sends a receipt for the amount assessed upon him by the bearer, and appeals to Sir James Bagg to witness his offer and promise to pay long since. Annexed,
78. i. Receipt from a Collector of the Loan for 25l., paid by Sir Richard Buller.
Aug. 22.
Usk.
79. Deputy Lieutenants of co. Monmouth to Edward Earl of Worcester. They have made a general reformation of the arms of the trained bands, and complied with other directions of his letter of July 11, 1626. Apologize for delay.
Aug. [23 ?]
Aldershot.
80. The King to the Duke of Buckingham. Letter recommending Capt. William Stuart for preferment.
Aug. 23.
Aldershot.
81. The same to Lord Treasurer Marlborough and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. It made him much wonder to understand from Becher that at his coming to Portsmouth neither ships, munition, nor money met him as was agreed, and as the King was made to believe. Fear of the like neglect, mistaking, or what ill name you please to call it, has made the King send Holland to know the cause and the authors of this fault, and to hinder the like in time to come, at least to give fair warning that he is and shall be displeased to see businesses of great consequence so ill handled. Expects a better account of the 2,000 men.
[Aug. 23 ?] 82. Minutes of two petitions to be submitted to the King:—1. For discharge of bonds given for appearance of George Broughton, pardoned of manslaughter at the suit of Widow Mann, whose husband was drowned in the Speedwell; 2. For pardon of Wilson and Holland, convicted of killing a bailiff at Andover. They were reprieved on the confession of Reeve that the crime was committed by him, and are now suitors to be employed in the wars.
Aug. 23.
Plymouth.
83. Sir Ferdinando Gorges to the Council. Urgent application for supplies of men and provisions for defence of that place.Preparations in France and Spain for joining together in venting their malice on this nation. There are on the coast six sail of great ships of the French King, and two Biscayners lie off and on between Scilly and the coast of France, taking and sinking all of our nation that comes athwart them. Within 12 days they have taken 7 or 8 of our colliers, sinking 4 or 5 and carrying away the rest. Trade will be impossible, and they will not omit to land, to the destruction of the country and dishonour of the King's state and government.
Aug. 23.
Aldershot.
84. Sec. Conway to the Deputy Lieutenants of Hants. The King takes willing notice of their zeal in accommodating the soldiers sent into that county, and has given directions to the Lord Treasurer and Chancellor of the Exchequer to give present order for their satisfaction.
Aug. 23. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
[Aug. 23.] 85. Henry Earl of Holland to Sec. Conway. The King has commanded him to signify his pleasure for granting Sir William Becher's requests. He also approves the consideration of the case of the Hamburgh merchants by those of the committee that are in London. Writes on a strange rag of paper, but the King would rather he should do so than have anything delayed that concerns Sir William Becher.
Aug. 23. 86. Capt. Oliver St. John to the same. Delivered his letter to Sec. Coke, who seemed not well pleased. He stands for a kinsman of Sir Thomas Button. Nicholas says the Duke appointed no captain at his going away but the writer. Begs continuance of his favour.
Aug. 23.
Southampton.
87. John Ellzey to Nicholas. 24 chests of prize sugar bought of Capt. Youngjohn by one Woodcott without first paying the Duke's tenths. Requests instructions. If this be once given, he must never look to have the tenths paid afterwards by any stranger.
Aug. 23.
Aboard the Mary Rose, in the Downs.
88. Capt. Francis Sydenham to Sir Henry Mervyn. Reports the state of his provisions. Information out of Holland, that the King of France had four great ships, one of 1,200 tons, with 60 guns, which would be ready in three weeks or a month.
Aug. 24.
Whitehall.
89. Order of Council for release of nine hoys of Amsterdam, bound for Rouen, taken by the Sweepstake, on pretence that they carried prohibited commodities, and also of four boys taken on a similar pretence by a man-of-war of Sir John Hippisley's, forasmuch as there is no prohibition for the Dutch carrying any commodities into France; but free trade. [Copy.]
Aug. [24].
Whitehall.
90, 91, 92. Three blank forms of letter addressed by the Council to the Lords Lieutenant of several counties, directing them, out of the number of men they were at this time to levy for his Majesty's service, to see that a certain number were archers.
Aug. 24.
Aldershot.
93. Sec. Conway to the Council. Sending them a letter of his Deputy Lieutenants of Hants, setting forth their zeal in the arrangements for supporting the troops at Southampton, and urging immediate repayment of the amount they have advanced, and provision of money for present supply.
Aug. 24. 94. Copy of the same, misdated August 25.
Aug. 24. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 24.
Aldershot.
The same to the same. Sending his Majesty's pleasure, that two ships be hasted away to guard the coast of Ireland, and that one of them attend the Lord Deputy's commands. [Minute, ibid, p. 281.]
Aug. 24.
Greenland.
95. Sir Cope Doyley, Sheriff of co. Oxford, to the same. Has received the person of Sir Erasmus Dryden to be lodged in Nettlebed, but there is no house of any sort fit to receive him in that place, which is one of the meanest villages in the county. Has consequently been forced to keep him in his own house. Could provide for him within five or six miles of Nettlebed, but could not presume to do so without directions.
Aug. 24. 96. Commissioners for the Loan for the hundred of Bradwater and half hundred of Hitchin, in co. Hertford, to the same. Send accounts of the collectors, which show the amounts collected and outstanding. The names of defaulters, with their answers, have been already returned. Inclose,
96. i. Account of Robert Spicer alias Helder, collector.
96. ii. The like of Robert Carter.
Aug. 24.
Nonsuch.
97. George Earl of Totness, Master of the Ordnance, to the same. On receipt of their warrant for supply of ordnance and ammunition to the co. of Suffolk, he sent the same to the officers of ordnance to be performed. The inclosed answer shows that the weakness of the stores is such as that they are not able to satisfy these demands. Incloses,
97. i. Officers of the Ordnance to George Earl of Totness. Explain the state of the stores. Office of the Ordnance, August 22, 1627.
Aug. 24.
The Camp, at St. Martin's.
98. George Duke of Buckingham to Nicholas. Lest his last letter by Buckstone [Buxton ?] should miscarry, he sends this by Mons. Dulbier, to let him know how nearly it concerns him to have speedy supplies out of England. Begs him to send what money he can get of the Duke's, and to solicit his friends for hastening the supplies, which are daily expected by the army.
Aug. 24.
Aldershot.
99. Sec. Conway to Sec. Coke. Has received the letters from Lubeck, and will present them to the King on the first opportunity. Returned the letters from Hamburgh, with directions thereon. Had better prepare the Council to consider the business of Lubeck. Sends the warrant for Sir Maurice Abbot signed.
Aug. 24. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 24.
Aldershot.
100. Sec. Conway to the Sheriff, Deputy Lieutenant, and Justices of the Peace of co. Hants. The King having reprieved Serjeants Holland and Wilson, prisoners at Winchester, there is now a petition for their pardon. They are to send up the usual statement, whereon a pardon may be grounded.
Aug. 24. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 280.]
Aug. 24.
London.
101. Sir John Finett to Sec. Conway. The Ambassador from Mantua presses for a parting audience of his Majesty on Sunday. His despatches should be prepared, and a ship to transport him to Calais. The Ambassador has hopes of producing some good effects in the point of accommodation, but this is magnum opus impar viribus suis. The two Ambassadors from Denmark have arrived, and are to have their audience at Oatlands on Tuesday next.
Aug. 24.
Denmark House.
102. Sir Simon Harvey to the same. The Council, not having been able to agree on terms with the farmers of the petty customs, had given them until Monday next, to make another offer, but in the meantime the farmers had advanced the 12,000l., so that the Lords may have more time to debate the business.
Aug. 24.
The Tower.
103. Andrew Palmer to Sec. Coke. Sends a copy of a paper concerning moneys. It shows the profit on coinage, and how the money of this kingdom may be made of equal value with that of other countries. Incloses,
103. i. The paper above mentioned.
Aug. 24.
Plymouth.
104. Sir James Bagg to Nicholas. Intreats Nicholas to procure him 2,000l. from Mr. Fotherley, and to keep him out of Lord Warwick's power, that so he may not harm a true servant of the Duke.
Aug. 24. 105. George Ladman to Anthony Ladman, his brother. Letter of Attorney, authorizing him to receive of Elizabeth Ladman, widow of Robert Ladman, a legacy given by the said Robert Ladman to the said George Ladman.
Aug. 24. 106. Copy of a letter written by a Regular to a friend beyond the seas, to inform the Pope's Holiness and the most illustrious Cardinals, concerning the canonical authority and jurisdiction in the external or contentious court, which the Lord Bishop of Chalcedon pretendeth to have here in England. [Translated out of Italian into English.]
Aug. 24. 107. Account of the French fleet prepared for the attack of Guernsey and Jersey, and the inadequacy of the fleet appointed for the defence of those islands. It is endorsed, "Copy of a paper delivered to my Lord of Holland . . . . by Sir Henry Mervyn and myself [Nicholas], which his Lordship undertook to send to the King."