Charles I - volume 80: October 1-9, 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 80: October 1-9, 1627', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1627-28, (London, 1858) pp. 366-378. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas1/1627-8/pp366-378 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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October 1–9, 1627

Oct. 1.
Camp, at St. Martin's.
1. Buckingham to Capt. Kettleby, of the Victory. Warrant to press four able mariners to serve in his ship as midshipmen, with the allowance of masters' mates.
Oct. 1. 2. Capt. George Alleyne to Nicholas. He and Capt. Pett are left to bring off Mr. John Haydon. A brave prize has been sent home, both rich and glorious, and taken with the least hazard that might be. Finds his discourse true. Sir Sackville Trevor is only fit to command a ship, and not a fleet. Within five miles was another ship that would have delivered up, had Sir Sackville sent but three of his worst ships to have taken her; and beyond her rode her great Admiral, a glorious ship, without a gun in her, which might have been burnt. This is the opinion of all the Dutch captains, and of all our own mariners, but they have lost the opportunity, and it will now cost many lives and much money before it can be effected. Sir Sackville's want of direction and command causes us to be contemned by the Dutch. When the writer comes to England, will relate the whole course of this proceeding. Sir Sackville neither followed his advice nor would willingly let him share either honour or profit. The French have lately bought four ships of 30 guns apiece at Amsterdam. There are two similar ships at Enchuysen, but this alarm will break off the design. At Enchuysen they have opened their booms to secure them.
Oct. 1.
On board the Entrance, in Stokes Bay.
3. Sir Henry Mervyn to the same. Will be in London to-morrow, to give account of their wants, and to confer with him and Sec. Coke. Doubts not of good success in this service, if it be not overthrown by Sir Sackville Trevor's going thither. Want of progress in repair of the George. Difficulty of procuring men. Two East India English ships came here to anchor late last night; they left Sir Francis Stewart at Plymouth; they have on board the body of Sir John Burgh.
Oct. 1.
Portsmouth.
4. William Towerson to the same. Enumerates what French prize ships are in that harbour. The two East India ships from Plymouth now in Stokes Bay. The corpse of Sir [John] Burgh, brought from Plymouth in the London, landed in that town that evening.
Oct. 1. 5. Account of provisions and supplies demanded by Sir William Becher and Mons. Dulbier, with marginal statements of what had been done with reference to each separate particular.
Oct. 1. 6. Copy of the same.
Oct. 1. 7. "Might and Would not; or, The Observation of the Right Honourable the Earl of Warwick his voyage, made upon the coast of Portugal in the year of our Lord God, Anno Domini 1627. With the passages which principally happened, and the proceedings thereof; but especially of the rule and government in the good ship called the Hector, under the command of Sir Francis Stewart, Knight, captain of the said ship. And a true relation of the manner of his fight with the Vice Admiral of Spain the 12th day of July, 1627; three more of the Spanish Armada giving her chase in sight, very near at hand. Written by William Ball, mariner, clearing himself of an aspersion falsely imputed upon him on the voyage." The narrative extends from March 14, 1627, to this day. Ball was master of the Hector. The narrative occupies 61 leaves of manuscript.
Oct. 1. 8. Account of Collector of the Loan for the hundred of Melksham and liberty of Trowbridge, in co. Wilts. Total assessment, 260l. 3s. 4d.; uncollected 46l. 16s. 8d.
Oct. 2.
[Whitehall.]
9. [Sec. Conway] to Sec. Coke. The King's pleasure is, that the French ships with troops for the King of Denmark, stayed by Lord Sunderland, be dismissed. The Dutchmen that ran away with the captain's ship (see letter of the Earl of Sunderland, 1627, September 25, Vol. lxxix., No. 27,) are to be made answerable at law. The King approves the drawing the King of Sweden into the league. He thinks it a matter worthy of all endeavour.
Oct. 2. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 2.
Tottenham.
10. Sec. Coke to Sec. Conway. Sends letter from Mr. Ross, on which direction is required: —1. Whether the priest, Trumbull, who was sent over to be a Bishop for Scotland, as Smith is for England, and who dissembled his conversion, shall be sent to Sir John Hippisley for redemption of mariners; 2. Whether the fugitives from Denmark and the States, for fear of serving the enemy, shall be permitted to come for England; 3. Whether those that serve the enemy shall be called home; and, 4. Whether Ross shall be further employed. Conway can report to the King what passed at the Council yesterday, and where the fault is if preparations be delayed. Hopes on Wednesday they will resolve better. Wants directions as to two French barks carrying men to the King of Denmark, but captured on our coasts. Sends letters for despatch of Mr. Harrison and the Ambassadors for Sallee. He has moderated what the King thought too sharp. Hopes Conway will assist at their meeting to-morrow.
Oct. 2.
Rochester.
11. Mayor and another, of Rochester, to Sec. Coke. Gervase Hambleton, Peter Hambleton, his brother, and Margaret, Peter's wife, with two children, and a servant, have been stopped on their arrival in that port. They are all Roman Catholics. Gervase took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy, but the rest refused. Gervase represents himself as having been a scholar of Oxford, but now a tailor. Peter is a physician. Information has been given that they are both priests, and that Gervase, whose real name is Father Hoard, is sent into England to attend the Roman Catholics, and do "an other gates" exploit in England. Inclose,
11. i. Information of John Freeman. Had been told that the Hambletons were both priests, and that the latter of the two was called Hoard. Rochester, 1627, October 1.
11. ii. Separate examinations of Gervase Hambleton and Peter Hambleton. Give account of their past lives. Gervase denies that he is Father Hoard; both deny that they are priests. Rochester, 1627, October 1.
Oct. 2.
Marlborough.
12. Deputy Lieutenants of Wilts to William Earl of Pembroke, Lord Lieutenant. By reason of the sickness, dangerously dispersed at Sarum, and in other parts of the county, as also for want of captains, they could not take an exact muster. Send names of persons fit to be appointed captains.
Oct. 2. 13. Journal, of Capt. George Alleyne, of the proceedings of the fleet sent to the Texel under Sir Sackville Trevor; it extends from September 24 to October 2, and fully details the circumstances of the capture of the St. Esprit.
Oct. 2.
At anchor, under Cowes Castle.
14. Certificate of J. Carstenzoon and nine others, being the commanders and chief officers of the Golden Lion, the Orange, and the Walcheren, the three Dutch East Indiamen stayed off the Isle of Wight. Set forth a request, made at the Cape of Good Hope on May 6 last, by the officers of the London, an English East Indiaman, for assistance from the Dutch East Indiamen, the London being in a very weak and desolate estate, which assistance was yielded; as also the subsequent gift to them of a boat on the loss of their own at St. Helena. [Copy, translated from the Dutch.]
Oct. 2.
At anchor, under Cowes Castle.
15. Similar certificate from the same persons. Set forth another request made to them, on August 29 last, by the officers of the same ship, the London, and the Reformation, another East English Indiaman, for the loan of 30 men, which was complied with. The two English ships had lost many of their crews from death, and the latter ship was in a perilous condition from a leak. [Copy, translated from the Dutch.]
Oct. 2. 16. Collectors' account of the loan for the hundred and borough of Bradford, co. Wilts.
Oct. 3.
The Savoy.
17. George Earl of Totness, Master of the Ordnance, to the King. In the memory of man that office was never so weak in powder as now. Difficulty of obtaining it. Beseeches the King to refer it to the Council to advise what course is to be taken in a cause of so great importance. Incloses,
17. i. Brief of powder issued out of the King's store from March, 1625, to September 22, 1627. Total, 653 lasts; remaining in store, 24 lasts.
Oct. 3.
Hereford.
18. Commissioners for the Loan for the hundreds of Broxash and Radlow, in co. Hereford, to the Council. Send accounts of collectors and lists of defaulters. Inclose,
18. i. Account and list for the hundred of Broxash. Collected, 475l 10s.; unpaid, 105l.
18. ii. The like for the hundred of Radlow. Collected, 371l. 4s.; unpaid, 104l. 9s. 4d.
Oct. 3. 19. Deputy Lieutenants of co. Warwick to the Council. Edward Standish, having obstinately refused to pay his proportion of money towards setting forth impressed soldiers, had been bound to answer the same before their Lordships.
Oct. 3.
London.
20. [Sec. Conway] to Sir John Hippisley. The King desires him to observe when the ships now going from the Thames to Plymouth come into the Downs, or pass Dover, and thereupon to haste a despatch to Court to say what wind they have, and when they may be expected to be at Plymouth.
Oct. 3. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 3.
[Whitehall.]
21. [The same] to Sir Henry Marten. Difficulties he feels with reference to the proclamation forbidding trade with Spain, and especially as to its operation on the States. Desires his clear judgment on the whole matter. [Copy.]
Oct 3. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 3.
On board the Adventure.
22. Capt. George Alleyne to [Sec. Conway]. Sends account of occurrences since the departure of Sir Sackville Trevor. He advised them to seek assistance from Mr. Barlow and Capt. Alexander Baxter, men whom they know not. Some of them have victuals only for four days. They have no money to buy, nor, if they had, would the States' fleet allow them to fetch provisions. Incloses,
22. i. Relation, by Capt. Alleyne, of his remaining in the Texel in the Adventure, with the Ambrose, Capt. Pett, and another vessel, Capt. Hooke, and being inclosed by 11 States' men-of-war, and there commanded to stay until further order from the States General. The person who brought this order, being asked to show his commission, answered, that he would show it when Capt. Alleyne would let him see by what commission he had offered violence in the States' road, and that if Capt. Alleyne offered to weigh anchor he knew what commission he had. Begs speedy advice.
Oct. 3.
St. Martin.
23. Sir William Becher to the same. By the Duke's commandment advertises occurrences since his letter of the 27th. On the 28th there came two gentlemen to treat of rendering the citadel, who demanded time until the next morning. The night being dark and stormy, on warning given of an enemy's approach, the Duke went to sea himself, but our barks taking a contrary course in the dark, the enemy's fleet of 35 barks broke through the thickest of our fleet. The Admiral and other gentlemen being stopped by the hawsers, were taken prisoners, but 14 or 15, carrying a month's provision, got through into the citadel. The next day an attempt was made to set them on fire, which failed. The colonels thereupon advised that it was fit to be gone, especially on account of the sickness produced by immoderate eating of grapes, and the uncertainty as to the arrival of supplies from England. On this advice the Duke determined to return, but on an offer of deputies from Rochelle to take 1,000 of the English sick into that town, and to send 500 men to the camp, with supplies of meal and further ships, it had been resolved to wait the arrival of succours from England. He is therefore urged to hasten the setting forward of Lord Holland's and Lord Morton's regiments with supplies of meal and fuel. The bearer, Mr. Griffin, is to be hastened back.
Oct. 3. 24. Copy of the same, without signature or superscription.
Oct. 3. 25. Another similar copy.
[Oct. 3.] 26. Capt. James Duppa to Nicholas. Recounts his proceedings, under the orders of Sir Sackville Trevor, from September 21. Crossed over to the Texel in a great storm. Entered the river on the 29th, Sir Sackville swearing with a deep oath, that he would lay the first French ship aboard, "but he that swears much, forgets much." He gave his broadside; the Vice and Rear Admiral did the like; and then they cried quarter. The Dutch pilots offered the Admiral to pilot him the same night to the other ship, which was within four miles. The next day eight ships were sent after that ship, but she had lightened herself, and set sail, and got away. The next day the fleet returned for England, leaving Capts. Alleyne, Pett, and Hooke, with the ketches, in the Texel. The prize brought to Aldborough. Complains of his treatment. Is going to Sir John Savile, who has sent for him.
Oct. 3.
Dover Castle.
27. Sir John Hippisley to [the same]. Sends all the information he can get as to what men came into Dover Castle "in eighty-eight." Wishes defaulters to be punished. Mr. Norton's offence was that he came not with men and armour as he was warned, and if he be not punished, all the rest will next time follow his example. Ordered by the Lords to press 60 men, but only 10 appeared.
Oct. 3.
Plymouth.
28. Sir Henry Mainwaring to the same. Ships are ready, but no news of the London ships. The Fellowship, the ship of the best force, rendered unserviceable by indiscretion of the pilot. The Hector is a good ship for defence if the London ships be not of good force. On Sunday last one landed at Falmouth, who said that he was at St. Martin's on the Thursday before, where he heard such an infinite number of ordnance go off that he was afraid to go in. God send good news! Wishes this supply were there.
Oct. 3. 29. Estimate for re-victualling the St. George, Convertive, St. Andrew, Antelope, and 14 other ships, for the terms mentioned in an order of the Council of October 1, 1627. Total, 9,142l. 5s.
Oct. 3. 30. Copy of the above.
Oct. 4.
Ross.
31. Commissioners for the Loan for the hundreds of Wormelow and Graytree, in co. Hereford, to the Council. Send accounts of the collector, who has received 445l.
Oct. 4.
Aston-juxta-Birmingham.
32. Commissioners for the Loan for the hundred of Hemlingford, in co. Warwick, to the Council. Return accounts of the collector. Received, 397l. 13s. 4d.; uncollected, 27l. 12s.
Oct. 4. 33. Commissioners for the Loan for the division of Westbury, in co. Wilts, to the same. Send accounts furnished by the collectors, and list of those who, having been divers times sent to, have not appeared before the Commissioners. Inclose,
33. i. The list above mentioned. In it occurs the following:—"Walter Long, Esq., refuseth to lend anything."
Oct. 4.
Whitehall.
Sec. Conway to Mr. Gerbier in the Low Countries. Signifying his Majesty's pleasure that he return hither. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 4.
St. Martin's Lane.
34. The same to Attorney General Heath. To prepare, with all possible speed, a commission for the Earl of Holland to take the command of the troops and ships assembled at Plymouth, and to see them conveyed to the Isle of Rhé. This commission not to trench on that granted to Lord Wilmot. [Copy.]
Oct. 4. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 4.
Hampton Court.
35. The same to William Towerson. The King lays upon him the charge of seeing that there be no embezzlement of the goods of the Dutch East Indiamen, whilst they are under arrest and protection. Three or four very honest and trusty men are to be put aboard each ship. Information is brought that some Dutch ships, lately come into that harbour, take aboard from them their best and richest commodities. This would be a mere scorn to the King, and frustrate the endeavours used to avoid discontents from the Dutch. If he wants any power he is to address Lord Conway, as having a particular charge in that place. [Copy.]
Oct. 4.
Bristol.
36. Mayor of Bristol to Sec. Conway. This very day there arrived in this port a ship of Hamburgh, taken as a prize. Christopher Roder, skipper of the same ship, has given information of a great navy preparing at the Groyne. Sends post that he may communicate the same to the Council. Two ships of that port, bound for Rhé, with provisions, will be ready within three or four days. Incloses,
36. i. Examination of Christopher Roder, skipper of the Hunter, of Hamburgh. Deposes to the assembling of various ships on the coast of Spain, all said to be bound for the Groyne, and thence to Oleron, to assist the French King.
Oct. 4. 37. Copy of the examination of Christopher Roder.
Oct. 4.
Tottenham.
38. Sec. Coke to the same. Sir Henry Mervyn is come from Portsmouth. Two Holland men-of-war are permitted to ride near the East Indian ships, which may receive out of them the most precious commodities. Has written to Sir John Jephson and Mr. Towerson to put some Englishmen aboard, and to forbid ships to ride near them. Three other Holland men-of-war have come in thither, and it is suspected that they purpose to carry away these ships or goods underhand, or to assail our English East Indian ships now come to Stokes Bay. Has written to Sir Henry Mervyn, requiring him to take care of their safe convoy; it being said that some of our commanders have been offered 5,000l. to connive in this business. Suggests a royal warrant on the subject to Sir Henry Mervyn and the Lieutenant of Portsmouth.
Oct. 4.
Canbury.
39. Lord Keeper Coventry to Sec. Conway. Sends the signed bill for Lord Wilmot's commission. The Attorney General has the draft, and will make use of it in drawing up the commission for Lord Holland if it be referred to him. Begs the original may be safely kept, and returned, being his warrant.
Oct. 4.
Aldwinckle.
40. Sir Miles Fleetwood to the same. Notwithstanding his broken arm, he has travelled to Feckenham and Leicester Forests in his coach, and with the company of his surgeon, and has so settled Leicester, and entered on Feckenham, that he shall be able to give an acceptable and profitable account on his return. In the discovery of this great and profitable work of disafforestation he has shown that the King may, in a short time, effect his pleasure in what forests he pleases, and thereby exceedingly improve his revenue. Begs that his return may be deferred for three weeks, on account of his health; in which time he will also provide a proposition for a respite of homage, which will improve the revenue, and free the subject from grievous oppressions and loss.
Oct. 4. 41. Attorney General Heath to the same. Sends Lord Holland's commission by a messenger, who will wait upon Lord Conway with it, very early on the morrow morning.
Oct. 4. Nicholas to Dudley Lord Carleton. Received his letter of the 19th on the 26th, and that day sent an extract of it by Mons. Dulbier to the Duke; also gave notice of its contents to Sir Henry Mervyn. They are daily expecting to hear of the success of Sir Sackville Trevor. Sir Henry Mervyn has brought three East India Dutch ships into Portsmouth, though the Admiral was very obstinate. Mr. Ashburnham has been at Paris, and brought assurance that France and Spain are entered into strict league, and that Spain is to join the French with 60 good ships and 20 fire-ships to set on the Duke. Wishes Lord Carleton could procure the Dutch to send extra ships to lie before Dunkirk; also that the Dutch would send provisions to St. Martin's. Death of Sir John Burgh; his corpse now at Portsmouth. Preparations for supplies to be sent by Lord Holland. The Duke wants principally some good engineers, whereof here is no good choice, but Mons. Dulbier told Nicholas he sent for one into the Low Countries. [Copy. Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 48.]
Oct. 4.
Bristol.
42. William Willett to Nicholas. Received the Lords' letter for release of ships bound for the Isle of Rhé with provisions. State of their preparations. Whilst the press was about for the St. Andrew and the Antelope no sailors would come near them, and now the merchants are discouraged by the non-return of the ships taken up by Sir Pierce Crosby to carry troops out of Ireland. The Fortune has brought in prize a Hamburgher, laden with sugar, wood, and tobacco. Rumour that the Charles has taken a good prize, and of preparations in Spain for sending a great fleet to St. Martin's.
Oct. 4.
Camp, at St. Martin.
43. Thomas Symonds to John Ashburnham, or Edward Nicholas. Diary of proceedings at St. Martin's, from September 20, when Ashburnham left, to this date:—Defeat of attempt at relief on September 20; arrival of Sir William Becher with 400 recruits on the 23d; success of attempted relief on the 28th; shipment of guns and ammunition in preparation for retreat; assistance given by the Rochellers. Mr. Griffith despatched to England, who being close in all his actions, was like to have stole away unknown to the writer.
Oct. 4.
Gravesend.
44. George Tucker to Lord Treasurer Marlborough. On Tuesday last there went two barks of Calais from this port by virtue of a pass from the Council, and in them certain passengers with passes. One Jennings made after them, in a little vessel called a sattee, without warrant from the searcher's office, and pillaged both barks and passengers. Desires inquiry, and that men-of-war may not pass without giving the officers notice.
Oct. 4.
Ordnance Office.
45. Field carriages and other things propounded to be sent to the Isle of Rhé, with an estimate for the same. Total, 5,415l. 13s. 4d.
Oct. 5. 46. Sir Sackville Crow to Nicholas. Recommends Robert Jones to be porter of the yard at Deptford.
Oct. 5. 47. Estimate, by the Commissioners of the Navy, for transporting 4,000 recruits, and also for three months' provisions for them, with victuals for 2,000 landmen for six months, and 4,000 landmen for 70 days, with charge for transportation of the same to the Isle of Rhé; also for 10 barges, 4 ketches, 6 ships laden with sea coal, 2 ships laden with 5,000 deals apiece, with a quantity of timber for the use of the army. Total, 50,495l. 11s. 5d.
Oct. 5. 48. Copy of the same, crossed through, as if cancelled; and on the margin Nicholas has written, "Undertaken by Sir Sackville Crow, Sir William Russell, and Mr. Burlamachi."
Oct. 5. 49. Another copy of the same.
Oct. 5. 50. Note of provisions necessary for 1,200 landmen for one week, to be in a readiness to be laden aboard ships in London by the 13th inst. With a memorandum underwritten, that the contractors have taken order to despatch the like proportion of victuals every week for three weeks after the 13th inst.
Oct. 6.
London.
51. William Wood to the King. The writer having been applied to by some Spanish [?] agent to give information respecting the ports and harbours of England, and also solicited to come to some place in Spain [?], with a view to give such particulars personally, informs the King what answer he had made, and seeks direction what he should do. It appears that he had had command of some of the King's ships many years together, both in the old Earl of Nottingham's time and also in the present Admiral's.
Oct. 6.
Whitehall.
52. The Council to Sir James Bagg. In order to have ships in a readiness to transport soldiers and provisions to the Isle of Rhé, he is authorized to impress ships in Plymouth, Poole, Weymouth, Dartmouth, and Falmouth. [Copy.]
Oct. 6.
Whitehall.
53. The same to the Mayor of Lyme Regis. To apprehend and commit to prison seafaring men, who having been warned to appear on a press for the King's service, either did not appear, or, having been impressed, ran away. [Copy.]
Oct. 6.
Portsmouth.
54. William Towerson to Sec. Conway. Having communicated to the Admiral of the Dutch East Indiamen, the directions received from Lord Conway, and also a letter from Sec. Coke to have their sails put ashore, he was well contented to land their sails, but hopes the King will excuse them from having men put aboard, the Admiral engaging to give an account of every parcel of goods laden upon these ships in the East Indies. The other Dutch ships are removed from their place of nearness to those from the East Indies, and watch and ward is held night and day, so that Towerson doubts not to give a fair account of this service.
Oct. 6.
Plymouth.
55. Charles Viscount Wilmot to the same. This day there arrived at Plymouth a Flemish ship from St. Martin's, the master of which reports the treaty for surrender of the citadel and its subsequent relief by 18 ships, as related in the letter of Sir William Becher of the 3rd inst. [see Vol. lxxx., No. 23]. Delights not to be the messenger of ill news, but wishes him to use his discretion whether it be fit for a serious consultation, now it be found possible to victual the fort, what is timely to be thought on for a long siege. It is scarcely to be imagined how this attempt could have succeeded, for there is a nightly watch of 600 men in boats, and the Duke takes such pains that the soldiers themselves pity him. He is commonly in those boats or in the trenches till midnight, and there is a battery of seven cannon that beats on the very landing place, besides a sunken collier whose ordnance plays on the same spot. The wind is now fair for Rhé, and the merchants have gone thither. But the supplies are all detained by the non-arrival of the ships from the Thames.
Oct. 6. 56. Sir Henry Mervyn to Sec. Coke. One Newland, dwelling in the Isle of Wight, near Cowes Castle, advised the Captains of the Dutch East Indiamen not to come into Portsmouth Harbour, and so far influenced them against compliance with the King's wishes, as very nearly to have occasioned bloodshed. If the Secretary thinks that Newland should be questioned, Sir Henry will obtain a certificate of the fact.
Oct. 6. Nicholas to Henry Viscount Falkland, Lord Deputy of Ireland. Has been commanded by the Commissioners for the Duke's revenue to desire Lord Falkland to send up an accompt of his Vice Admiralty this next term. No news from the Duke that Nicholas's cousin,Welsted, Lord Falkland's agent, has not understood. Begs him to encourage all men to send provisions to St. Martin's and Rochelle. [Copy. Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 49.]
Oct. 6.
[Tilbury Hope.]
57. Sir John Chudleigh to Nicholas. Last night was in good hope of a fair wind, but this morning it proves clean contrary. The pilot says, that, losing that day, they shall not be able to get over [the flats and shoals] until Tuesday. They will strive to get down as far as Lee or Queenborough. Mr. Burrell has not sent the drum assigned to Sir John, and he wants additional water-casks. Intends to apply to Sir John Hippisley for a supply of men. Of the score pressed only six appeared.
Oct. 6.
Exeter.
58. William Kift to the same. Sends the proceedings against the 290 hides challenged by Chamberlain, but confiscated to the Lord Admiral. Hopes he shall be no farther troubled, for what he did was for the Duke's service. Is putting foot in stirrup to ride to Plymouth about the commission against Sir John Eliot, and on Monday next they begin to sit. Could hardly be spared from his other employments, but Mr. Drake and the other commissioners will not proceed unless he be present.
Oct. 6. 59. Capt. Nicholas Thornburgh to the same. Relates his ineffectual endeavours to obtain employment in the Isle of Rhe. He consequently returned with Capt. Buxton. Solicits the favour of Nicholas.
Oct. 7.
Duchy House.
60. Sir Humphrey May to Buckingham. Sorry to hear, by Mr. Ashburnham, with what distresses and dangers he was beset. Hopes the arrival of Sir William Becher has proved that those who have an interest in the Councils of this State have neither been wanting to the King's service, nor in affection to his safety and prosperity. An hour's conference with the bearer of this letter, the Earl of Holland, will convince him of the King's care and favour, and that the malevolency of the last Parliament has had no influence at the Council table. Slowness of supplies arises from the difficulty they have to "congest" the required materials together in such a penury of money. No man is wanting to the despatch of the Duke's affairs. The Chancellor of the Exchequer is not a spark, but a flame of fire, in anything that concerns the Duke. Intreats him not to make his designs too vast.
Oct. 7.
Whitehall.
61. Sec. Conway to William Earl of Northampton. Requests his favour for Mr. Colwall [Colville], who lives at the Hague, in a suit against Richard Ailway, depending in the marshes of Wales. Colville has been an attendant on the King's Ambassador at the Hague, and is very serviceable to Englishmen there. Through him Sec. Conway and many others have been furnished with arms.
Oct. 7. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 7.
Salisbury Court.
62. Sir Sackville Trevor to Nicholas. He has put Philip Johnson in charge of the French prize ship, the Holy Ghost, as boatswain, and desires that he may have a warrant for his place.
Oct. 7.
Salisbury Court.
63. Sir Sackville Trevor to the Commissioners of the Navy. Sends Philip Johnson to give them account of the French prize, and requests that he may be continued as her boatswain. With underwritten recommendation to that effect, addressed by four of the Commissioners to Nicholas, dated October 8, 1627.
Oct. 8. 64. Minute, signed by the King, that certain verbal alterations in the bill for Sir Robert Harley, K.B., and others, were made by the King's direction.
Oct. 8. 65. George Margitts to the King. Formerly submitted to the King's father and himself a proposal of Henry Ashton for surprising Dunkirk; the same person now offers to take the fort in the Isle of Rhé, with only 200 men of his own training.
Oct. 8.
Coventry.
66. Commissioners for the Loan for the city of Coventry to the Council. The collectors have paid in 120l., and have 30l. in hand. Within a few days they will attend the Council with a list of defaulters.
Oct. 8.
Ash.
67. Sir John Drake to Nicholas. Sends invoice of various ships, and a note of the quantity of tobacco on which the customs are unpaid. Wishes abatement of the customs, much of it not being worth more than that amount. When he meets with any worth having, will send it to Nicholas. Store of fishermen there with bank-fish. The ginger prize at Bristol falls below the valuation. Incloses,
67. i. Note of tobacco above mentioned.
Oct. 8.
Bristol.
68. Capt. Oliver St. John to the same. The Antelope has fallen down to King Road; the St. Andrew will be ready to do the same the latter end of the week. If they can get men they shall be ready on the first fair wind.
Oct. 8.
Bristol.
69. William Willett to the same. Two ships are gone with provisions to St. Martin's and Rochelle. The rest are discouraged by the non-return of the troop ships. Has received directions from Sir Sackville Crow and Mr. Burlamachi to provide all manner of victuals, and to freight a ship to carry them. They are carrying out their directions. The St. Andrew will be ready this week. The Antelope has been ready these 10 days. The James is on the north of Ireland. Has not heard from Capt. Fogg since he went.
[Oct. 8 ?] 70. Note of provisions sent by Sir William Becher to the Isle of Rhé, and of the state of the various arrangements for sending provisions and recruits by the Earl of Holland, and in other ways.
Oct. 9.
St. Martin's
71. Proclamation of the Duke of Buckingham, to assure English merchants who have brought victuals over to the Isle of Rhé that they shall quietly make sale of their merchandise, and have liberty to lade themselves with wine, salt, or other commodities they may buy of the inhabitants of the isle. [Attested copy.]
Oct. 9. Warrant to the Sheriff of Chester, to reprieve Thomas Sanderson, convicted of stealing a nag, and send him to the wars, with the forces to be levied there. [Docquet.]
Oct. 9. Warrant to pay 50,495l. 11s. 5d. to the Surveyor of Marine Victuals, and the Treasurer of the Navy, for transporting 4,000 recruits, with victuals and necessaries for the army and fleet at the Isle of Rhé. [Docquet.]
Oct. 9.
Westminster.
72. The King to Bishops Montaigne, of London, Neile, of Durham, Buckeridge, of Rochester, Howson, of Oxford, and Laud, of Bath and Wells. Commission to exercise the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Sir Henry Marten is confirmed in his offices of Dean of the Arches and Judge of the Prerogative Court; Sir Charles Cæsar in those of Judge of the Audience and Master of the Faculties; Sir Thomas Ridley in that of Vicar General; Nathaniel Brent in that of Commissary of the said Archbishop; and likewise the several Registrars.
Oct. 9.
Westminster.
73. Copy of the above.
Oct. 9. The same to the town of Reading. To erect saltpetre works there. Similar to a letter for the same purpose written to Oxford. [Docquet.]
Oct. 9.
Hatfield.
74. William Earl of Salisbury to Buckingham. Cannot let pass the opportunity of this noble soul's coming unto him to give him assurance of his unfeigned affection and devotion to his service. If the messenger's worth did not challenge the Earl's love, he should love him for nothing more than his gratitude to the Duke. Thinks the time long since they had the honour to see him. The welcomest news they could receive now, would be that he was master of the fort, and was returning.
Oct. 9.
Whitehall.
75. Sec. Conway to Sir Miles Fleetwood. The King's contentment at his account of the work done by him, and the probability of its becoming a leading example to other parts. Dispenses with his attendance for the time he desires. The King's service is interested in the preservation of his health.
Oct. 9. Minute of the same. [Conway's Letter Book, p. 286.]
Oct. 9.
Portsmouth.
76. William Towerson to Sec. Conway. The sailors of the Dutch East Indiamen press to have liberty to leave their ships, and that they may be secured of their wages. On Saturday their Admiral sought permission to put aboard the men-of-war 30 men out of each of the ships. Towerson replied, he had no authority. Requests instructions. The Dutch men-of-war have all put to sea.
Oct. 9. Nicholas to Sir Henry Marten. Sends a copy of a commission intended to be granted to Sir Kenelm Digby, with various exceptions to it as derogatory to the Duke's office of Lord Admiral. Wishes his opinion thereon. No such commission has been given to any private person. The Duke thought much of the Earl of Warwick's commission, and will take it as great remissness in those he trusts when he shall hear of such a grant to Sir Kenelm. [Copy. Nicholas's Letter Book, p. 51.]
Oct. 9. Nicholas to Sir George St. George. The principal goods in the French prize, the Hope, being sugars, for which it was doubted whether merchants in Ireland would give the full value, some sugarmen have sent over Matthew Kendrick, who is to be allowed to buy them at a fair price on bills of exchange at eight days' sight. [Copy. Ibid, p. 52.]
Oct. 9. The same to the same. Has obtained a decree against the Hope, brought into Galway, and sends a commission to him, as the Duke's agent for Admiralty business in Connaught, to sell the same, and return half the proceeds immediately to Mr. Oliver, the Duke's receiver, with an accompt. The other half of the prize is challenged by some Dutchmen resident in France. Divers officers would have had this prize adjudged to the King, but Nicholas had procured it to be sentenced as piratically taken, and so forfeited to the Duke. It will be a good welcome for Sir George into his new office. [Copy. Ibid, p. 53.]
Oct. 9.
Plymouth.
77. Sir James Bagg to Nicholas. Received letters by Mr. Bold. Delights in his brave and grave company, but wishes he had a wind, as he had a ship the first hour of his arrival. Formerly sent list of ships made ready for the thousand men to go with the Earl of Holland. Sends now list of ships in that port, and Dartmouth, but nothing but warrant and command will draw the owners to contract. The provisions shall be made ready on receipt of money. Nicholas knows his wants. The merchants will not go to Rochelle. They will not credit that they shall get money, but rest assured that their goods will be taken from them and bills given them. Incloses,
77. i. List of ships belonging to Plymouth, with tonnage, ordnance, and names of owners.
77. ii. Similar list for Dartmouth.
Oct. 9.
Plymouth.
78. The same to the same. Wrote two days ago to one Pentecost, to sail from Plymouth to London, and not discharge his ship, the Expedition, without Nicholas's direction. Begs that he may receive despatch.
Oct. 9. 79. Duplicate of the above.
Oct. 9. 80. Account, by Sir John Chudleigh, of his endeavours to get out of the Thames from the 6th to the 9th instant.
Oct. 9. 81. Accompt of those of the train of Artillery who have received pay at St. Martin, Isle of Rhé, of Capt. John Mason, Treasurer of the Army.