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1. Minute by Sec. Windebank of a reference made upon a petition
to the King. His Majesty referred the same to the Archbishop of
Canterbury, the Lord Treasurer, and the Bishops of Bath and Wells
and of Oxford, who are to make choice of persons in the University
of Oxford to peruse the statutes of [Wadham] College, and when
they shall be informed of what interpretations and additions are fit
to be made to the same, that then, having first acquainted his
Majesty, they shall ordain such things as shall seem necessary.
[2/3 p.] |
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2. State of the case between the Archbishop of Canterbury and
the Universities concerning visitations. Enumerates the several
grounds on which the Universities claimed exemption, and the
result, as already calendared under dates of 18th June 1636 and
30th January 1636-7. [1½ p.] |
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3. Orders made by the Dean and Chapter of Christ Church, Oxford, from their foundation under Henry VIII., for the good government of the students, signed by Dr. Brian Duppa as dean, and
seven others. [Latin. 14 pp.] |
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4. Statement of the rights of the Dean and Chapter of Christ
Church, Oxford, concerning their revenues, the right of the students
concerning their stipends, and of the dean and chapter concerning
improved rents of their lands, and their right of government over
the students. Prepared in answer to a claim set up by the students
for a share in the improved rents. [2 pp.] |
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5. Copy of the preceding. [4 pp.] |
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6. Extracts from the statutes of [Merton College, Oxford], relative
to the election of officers, and appointment of accounts, with an
exposition given of the latter of these by Archbishop Islip in 1351.
[Endorsed by Archbishop Laud as "Dr. Turner's paper." Latin.
2/3 p.] |
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7. Particular, said in the endorsement to be by the Dean and
Canons of Hereford, of such things as were in their new statutes
enjoined them in their service in the cathedral of Hereford which
were not required in the old, nor were ordinarily practised till the
receiving of the new statutes. [Underwritten is a memorandum
written in or after 1638, explaining how the new statutes came to
be given to that cathedral. 1 p.] |
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8. Petition of the Regent and Professors of the Musæum Minervæ
to the King. Petitioners are bound to uphold the Musæum which
his Majesty has founded, and have maintained the same, and borne
those debts and inconveniences which these times of mortality have
cast upon them. Being now no longer able to prevent the discontinuance of their studies, they have no relief but his Majesty's
goodness. They beseech him to command Sec. Windebank to peruse
a remonstrance of the estate of the Musæum, and give him an
account of their distress, and the means proposed for the conservation of the Musæum till God restore health to London. [2/3 p.]
Annexed, |
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8. i. Propositions offered to Sec. Windebank. First.—That persons
who have promised moneys to the Musæum might be ordered to make present payment. Second.—His Majesty's letters not having taken effect, that he would bestow
a proclamation for better notice of his favour towards the
Musæum. Thirdly.—By the lottery granted to George
Gage and others for bringing a river to London much
money was collected, but, the undertaking failing, the
money remains in deposito, to be disposed to Sir Edward
Peyto and Colonel Hambleton upon the like project. It
is proposed that either this money be employed for the
building of an academy, or that another lottery may be
granted for that purpose. The remainder of the paper
relates to a grant of lands in North Wales, formerly
solicited (see 30th March 1637, Vol, cccli., No. 39.) Those
lands appear to have been discovered to be worthless, and
a grant of other lands is solicited; but this part of the
paper is imperfect; probably a leaf is wantinq. [1¼ p.] |
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9. Suggestions from a person whose name does not appear, who,
having read over during his holidays the Annals of Tacitus with
the Annotations of Lipsius, published in small 4to. in 1619 at
Geneva, points attention to certain passages which are termed seditious, and wishes the book to be suppressed. [Endorsed: "Sentences
at Bugden." 1 p.] |
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10. Petition of Edmond Barker, messenger of the Chamber, to
the Council. Has had in his custody Nathaniel Wickens, servant
to Mr. Prynne, ever since 13th April last, and Thomas Aslin, a
porter, ever since 31st May last, whom he has entirely maintained,
and as yet has received no satisfaction. Prays order for their
discharge out of his custody, and that he may receive satisfaction
[½ p.] |
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11. Petition of Robert Raworth, printer, to Archbishop Laud.
Has been 28 years and more admitted a master printer in London;
printed St. Chrysostom, done by Sir Henry Savile; has suffered
many afflictions in his later age. Prays to be admitted into the
Society of Printers of London. [2/3 p.] |
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12. Petition of Bernard Alsop, stationer of London, to Sir John
Lambe, Sir Nathaniel Brent, Dr. Duck, and the other Commissioners
of the High Commission Court. Thomas Creed in 1593 was admitted a master printer. In 1615 he and petitioner became partners,
and in 1616 petitioner purchased Creed's moiety, with his books
and copies, and his art of a master printer, according to the custom
of the Company of Stationers, for which petitioner paid 300l., and
from that time has employed himself in printing without molestation. Petitioner prays that he may be admitted a master printer
according to the decrees in that behalf. [2/3 p.] |
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13. Petition of Arthur Nicholls to the same. Petitioner has
spent much time in founding letters for the printers of London, and
has great store cast. His employment of founding letters alone will
not maintain him. Since the archbishop has otherwise determined
to dispose of the printer's place at Oxford, prays leave to be a
printer in London, that he may make use of his own letters. [½ p.] |
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14. Cause of complaint of the same Arthur Nicholls. Being
cutter and founder of letters for printers, he is three quarters of a
year cutting the punches and matrices of one sort of letters, which
are some 200 of a sort, after which they are six weeks a-casting;
that done, some two months is required for trial, and then the
printers pay him what they themselves list. For Greek, the printers
promised him the doing of all the common work, which drew him
to do 400 matrices and punches for 80l., truly worth 150l. Further,
they caused him to spend five weeks in cutting the letter for the
small Bible, it being approved for the best in England; notwithstanding they put him off about it for 15 weeks, till Mr. Patrick
Young came out of the country, all which time he kept his servants
standing still. Prays the archbishop not to confine him to these
miserable uncertainties; but promises, if he will grant his petition,
he shall see more done in one year than was ever done in England
for all kinds of languages, which will be for the good of the commonwealth, and his grace's particular content. [½ p.] |
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15. Draft of the decree of the Star Chamber for regulating printing and printers. This draft contains a large portion of the decree
as ultimately passed on the 11th July 1637, and exhibits some of
the many alterations which were made in it during the progress of
its preparation. Some of the suggestions are in the handwriting of
Sir John Lambe. This draft contains 18 articles; the decree as
finally published contained 33. [10 pp.] |
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16. List by Sir John Lambe, prepared with a view to the selection of the 20 printers to be licensed under the new decree of July
1637, similar, but with important variations, to the list already
calendared in Vol. ccclxiv., No. 111. Archbishop Laud has written
upon this paper a contingent recommendation of Thomas Payne,
the petitioner in the article No. 23, to succeed in the place of Jones.
[1¼ p.] |
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17. Notes, stated by Sir John Lambe to be from the clerk of the
Printers' Hall. They are principally in opposition to the regulation
that stands No. 18 in the published decree, that all books should be
new licensed before they were reprinted. It was stated that such
a regulation would be to the utter undoing of the greater number
of the Society of Stationers, principally by its hindrance to the
current business of reprinting works long licensed. [1 p.] |
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18. Copy of the clause of the decree touching reprinting mentioned above, with marginal notes pointing out the anticipated
inconveniences, and that the result would be that the books to
which it applied would in consequence be printed beyond sea. There
is added a branch of a subsequent article, which seems to have been
omitted. [½ p.] |
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19. Petition of Henry Holland, stationer of London, on behalf of
Richard Wills and others, mercers of Coventry, to Archbishop Laud.
By the late decree of Star Chamber concerning printing, all haberdashers and other tradesmen are prohibited from buying or selling
books. Petitioner, on behalf of Richard Wills and one Hancock,
his master mercers, certifies that they have sold lawful privileged
books, as bibles, psalters, psalm books, and other school books, to
furnish that city and county, and more especially to supply the
King's free school in Coventry and other allowed schools. Petitioner
being persuaded that it was not the intention of the Lords in that
decree to prohibit mercers from buying and selling such authorized
books as aforesaid, prays that Wills and others, having a good
assortment of lawful books in their shops when the decree came out,
may be still permitted to carry on their trade. [2/3 p.] |
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20. Petition of John Norton, printer, to the same. Has been in
partnership with Nicholas Oakes for eight years, in which time many
differences have arisen between them. Oakes had de novo exhibited
a petition to the High Court of Commission, importing the same
matter which had been decided by the late archbishop, and of which
there is now a suit depending at common law. To defeat petitioner
of his right, Oakes has assigned over all his title of printing to his
son John Oakes. The archbishop intending to establish those
printers which shall be thought meet to continue, petitioner prays
to be established instead of Oakes, and he shall do all right to Oakes
by way of co-partnership, as shall be thought fit. [¾ p.] |
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21. Petition of Nicholas Oakes, printer, to Sir John Lambe, Sir
Nathaniel Brent, and Dr. Duck, commissioners for the printers.
John Norton has petitioned the Archbishop of Canterbury to be
master of a printing press, on the ground of his being petitioner's
partner. Petitioner was to blame for having admitted him without
the privity of the archbishop or of the Commissioners. Norton,
wanting capacity himself for the government of a press, has aided a
company of factious persons in erecting an unlawful press in a secret
place, and secretly conveyed out of petitioner's house forms and
letters which afterwards were discovered by the Company of Stationers, and defaced, to petitioner's disgrace and loss. Submits
whether Norton, having infringed the decree made in the Star
Chamber, ought to be tolerated to be a master printer. [½ p.] |
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22. Petition of John Norton, of London, stationer, to Archbishop
Laud and Bishop Juxon. Petitioner served apprenticeship, afterwards as journeyman, in his Majesty's printing house, eight years,
and since has practised as a master-printer 12 years, and has employed his whole estate in purchasing materials. The Society of
Stationers have lately taken away his press, as they allege by order
from his grace, whereunto he submits, although never guilty of
printing anything offensive to church or state. Prays relief. [¾ p.] |
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23. Petition of Thomas Payne to Archbishop Laud. Sets forth
the investment of his savings of 150l., in partnership with William
Jones, printer, lately questioned in the High Commission, and prays
that Jones's sin may not be petitioner's punishment. [Similar to
Vol. ccclvii., No. 177. 3. 2/3 p.] |
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24. Notes upon the prerogative power of the Crown in regulating
printing, and the way in which the same had been executed in past
periods, with some particulars relating to the establishment of the
King's printers. The number of correctors employed by them was
four, at 50l. per annum; their capital stock was 6,000l., and they had
been at 1,500l. charge in the last translation of the Bible. [2 pp.] |
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25. The King [to all Judges and other Officers]. Having received
very good testimony of the loyalty of Sir John Wintour, of Lydney,
co. Gloucester, and the Lady Mary his wife, the King extends his
special grace towards them, and directs that no indictment, presentment, information, or suit be preferred against them for matter of
recusancy. [Draft in the handwriting of Robert Reed. ¾ p.] |
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26. Information concerning recusants. By 3 Jac. I., cap. 4, every
recusant shall, after the first year of his conformity, repair to church
constantly and receive the sacrament once every year, under various
penalties; also by 3 Jac. I., cap. 5, every recusant shall, within one
month after birth, bring his child to the minister of the parish to be
baptized, under other penalties. There are within one county 300
persons who conform and never receive the sacrament, and 100 who
never have their children baptized but by a popish priest. There is
a penalty also upon marriages and the like neglect of the statute.—
"The Queen's Majesty conforms." [2/3 p.] |
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27. Notes concerning the legal liability of recusants in the cases
mentioned in the preceding paper. The person from whom these
papers proceeded was apparently an applicant for a grant of the
penalties. He offered to find out a sufficient number of persons
liable to make the penalties amount to "great sums, if not over
great." Endorsed: "Lionel Farrington." 11/6 p.] |
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28. Extracts from the Statutes against Recusants, which refer to
the cases mentioned in the last two preceding papers. [Endorsed:
"For Mr. Hodgkinson." 1¼ p.] |
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Order of the Court [of Sessions for Middlesex], That no further
proceedings be made against Sir Charles Smith, an indictment of
recusancy having been preferred against him unknown to the court.
[See Vol. cclxv., No. 84. ¼ p.] |
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29. Petition of the poor recusants of the southern and northern
parts to the King. Your Majesty had accepted such recusants into
grace as should submit themselves to composition, which petitioners
had most willingly embraced; but the great charge of passing their
grants is such that without further favour they can reap no benefit.
Pray that the settlement of the fees may be referred to the Lord
Treasurer and the Lord Cottington, calling to them the Vice-President of the North. [¾ p.] |
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30. Petition of Clement Pastorne [Paston ?] to the King. Petitioner
being a Roman Catholic born and bred, whose father dying has left
him an estate so much engaged that he shall be enforced to sell the
greater part of it, unless your Majesty grant him your protection;
which is solely desired for payment of his father's debts, and then
he will submit himself and his estate to your pleasure as other
Catholics must do. [Endorsed by Sec. Windebank; "Sent by the
Queen's Majesty:" delivered by Mr. Dorington. [½ p.] |
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31. Petition of Thomas Leke, priest, prisoner in the Clink, to the
same. Petitioner is 70 years of age, and troubled with infirmities
which endanger his life, as by certificate annexed appears. Has
been known near 40 years for a dutiful subject, and has given
satisfaction in the oath of allegiance. Prays order to the Council
for his discharge, giving bond to appear. [2/3 p.] Annexed, |
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31. i. Certificate of Drs. John Gifford and William Gibbes.
Vouch for the bodily infirmities of Thomas Leke. [¼ p.] |
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32. George Moore, called La Croix, to the Queen. Has been
arrested at Dover on suspicion of being a priest, which he is not,
on account of certain rosaries which he had about him. Prays her
Majesty to let Sec. Windebank have the King's direction to set
the applicant at liberty. [2/3 p.] |
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33. Petition of Francis Perkins, of Ufton, Berks, a recusant convict, to the Council. Petitioner by reason of his recusancy is confined to within five miles of his dwelling. Albeit in letters patent
granted above ten years since of his Majesty's two parts of petitioner's lands, and for which his Majesty has been duly answered
50l. per annum, there is some clause that may seem to imply such
a licence, yet petitioner having urgent occasion to travel into
Wilts, as also to London and Westminster, prays licence in manner
agreeable to the statute. [Underwritten. Nil. ½ p.] |
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34. Petition of Francis Newton, one of the messengers, to the
Council. Petitioner for five years has had a general warrant for apprehending jesuits, &c., which service he has performed, neglecting his
other employments, and often endangering his life. He has taken
29 priests and jesuits, whose names are annexed. Some he carried to
prison, others he kept in his custody, especially Henry Morse, whom
he kept for 30 days, and indicted him the last sessions at Newgate,
where he was found guilty of treason, but no allowance made to
petitioner for his pains, or for entertainment of witnesses. In this
employment petitioner has expended above 200l. From the Spanish
ambassador's and divers other places, on Sundays and at other times,
great multitudes of people issue forth from hearing mass. Prays a
renewal of his warrant, and a grant of another warrant, as Mr. Crosse
had, to apprehend some of those who flock in such multitudes to and
from mass; also an order for satisfaction for his pains and charges.
[2/3 p.] Annexed, |
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34. i. List of the 29 priests and jesuits above mentioned. [1 p.] |
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35. Thomas Lyddell, mayor of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, to his
brother-in-law, Sir Henry Anderson. Has delivered Anthony,
servant to Sir Robert Hodgson, understanding that the Lords had
given order therein. Some men being stayed at Shields by the
searchers, he went with Mr. Clavering to bring them up, and now
sends their examinations. One of them will find no language but
a little Latin, French, and Dutch. The writer persuades himself he
is an Englishman and a jesuit. There is found in the ship great
store of books, which Dr. Jackson has viewed, and many manuscripts, with abundance of pictures and popish relics. Of the others,
one is an English youth who put his beads into the river, and is
committed for refusing the oath of allegiance; the third is a Scotchman. In their gaol there is the other supposed priest, who was last
sessions condemned in a premunire, one Gilbert Skelton, committed
for denying to take the oath of allegiance, with two others. Sends
up the letters taken with these men. Prays Sir Henry to move to
get reward for the officers. This kind of service has been too much
neglected in this place. Mr. Alvie has seen some of the manuscripts,
and says that he who penned them was a good scholar. We endure
great scarceness, being debarred of our trade. There are yet two
Dunkirkers off this coast, and, that which is worse, the plague continues. Last week there were 21 houses infected, and 15 died in
the fields and 12 in the town. [Probably written in May 1637.
2 pp.] |
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36. Copy of suggested Order of Council confirming an arrangement, that upon the death of Robert Moyle, appointed third protonotary of the Court of Common Pleas, the same office should be
held in trust for his sons, Walter, John, and Robert for their lives in
succession. This paper is stated to have been penned and perused
by the Attorney-General. [¾ p.] |
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37. [The Council to Justices of Peace of co. Warwick.] Imperfect
draft of letter, charging them to see that the possession of the Earl
of Leicester of certain lands at Balsall should not be disturbed in
the manner complained of by William Emott, servant to the Earl of
Leicester, on behalf of his master. This letter was probably never
sent, being superseded by some of those upon this subject which
have been calendared in previous volumes. [2/3 p.] Annexed, |
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37. i. Copy of part of an indictment against Thomas Furley
and Joan his wife, Martin Fisher, Edward Careles, John
Careles, Francis Smith, Thomas Swan, John Samon,
William Furley, Juliana Measie, Maria Nibbs, John
Everts, Thomas Wigley, and John Tomson, for a forcible
entry into certain lands at Balsall. [2/3 p.] |
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38. Petition of Sir Richard Levison and Katherine his wife, and
others the daughters of Sir Robert Duddeley, to the Council. Upon
a petition of William Emott, on behalf of the Earl of Leicester his
master, suggesting a late violent taking possession of part of the
manor of Balsall, co. Warwick, as for petitioners, with a prayer of
restitution, the Lords made reference to Sir Thomas Leigh and
others, who have returned their certificate. Pray a day of hearing,
hoping the Lords will rather settle than any way alter what possession petitioners have of the said manor which they claim by the
same title as his Majesty quietly enjoys the castle of Killingworth
[Kenilworth]. [¾ p.] |
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39. Brief in a cause in the Court of Delegates, on behalf of Christopher Williams, against Henry Every and Francis Lippencott. Defendants were charged with having fraudulently removed nine tons
of wood from the ship the Mary Margaret, part of 27 tons seized in
the said ship under warrant of the Court of Admiralty. [6 pp.] |
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40. Similar brief in a cause in the Court of Delegates, on behalf
of Humphry Seaward, against John Beere and Urith Shapcott. On
the 20th May 1637 letters of administration of the estate of Robert
Fowling, of Ottery St. Mary, intestate, were granted to the defendants. This case was an appeal against that judgment by Humphrey
Seaward, who was cousin-german once removed to the deceased,
and had a previous grant of administration for the better preservation
of the goods of the deceased. [5½ pp.] |
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41. Similar brief in the same cause on behalf of Thomas Shapcott,
husband of Urith Shapcott. [3 pp.] |
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42. Account of the tithes of certain lands from 1634 to 1637,
the double value of which was in dispute in a suit in the Arches
Court, of Lady Dinham against Browne and others. The single
value was stated to be 20l. 19s. [¾ p.] |
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43. Minute of a request of the Commissioners for Exacted Fees,
that Sir Henry Mildmay and Sir Richard Wynne, two of the same
Commissioners, would move his Majesty to declare whether the
commission should surcease their inquiry in consequence of the
Courts of Westminster Hall having empanelled juries to enquire
what fees had been taken during the last 30 years. [2/3 p.] |
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44. Note of what his Majesty's subjects pay for taking an oath
in the various places here enumerated. The clerks take for administering the oath to Knights and Burgesses of the Parliament 2s. 6d.;
persons admitted of the Train Band, on taking the oath of allegiance,
pay 1s.; the Chamberlain of the city, when he gives the oath to
any freeman, takes 3s. 4d.; the companies, when they admit any,
and give them an oath, take the same sum. [¾ p.] |
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45. Charges made against the Clerk of the Enrolments in Chancery
for taking fees not warranted by the statute of 23rd Henry VIII.,
with answers thereto. [Endorsed by Sec. Coke "Mr. Henlei's answers." 1 p.] |
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46. Legal case as to the effect of a clause in an episcopal grant
whereby J. C. was appointed the bishop's "commissary," with the
opinions of Dr. Nicholas Steward, Dr. Arthur Duck, Dr. Thomas
Gwynn, and Dr. Basil Woodd thereon. [2½ pp.] |
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47. Statement respecting a will of Luke Fisher, late of Wisbeach,
who being worth 8,000l. had made a will after he had been seized
with a fit and was in extremis. The writer wishes the circumstances
to be privately suggested to the archbishop. If no one will do so,
the writer as ordinary will petition either the King or the archbishop. [1 p.] |
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48. Note of Mrs. Kyme's desires to be presented to Sir John
Lambe, to whom her cause in the High Commission against her
husband is referred. She sets forth the particulars of her husband's
misconduct towards her, and prays for a separation and alimony.
[12/3 p.] |
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49. Statement relative to the wardship of Hoe Games, grandson
of Sir John Games, of Newton near Brecon. The wardship, having
been first granted to Richard Gwynn, was, upon his retirement, committed to Dr. Gwynn. He being about to relinquish the same, the
right was in contest between Dr. David Betton, to whom Catherine
Games, second wife of John Games, father of the ward, then deceased,
had made over her right, and Sir Walter Vaughan and George
Vaughan. On the one side it was alleged that the Vaughans were
not related to the ward, and on the other that Catherine Games had
never been married to the ward's father. Both these assertions were
in dispute. [2¾ pp.] |
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50. Statement of the case of John Belasyse, who had married
Jane, the daughter and heir of Sir Robert Boteler, deceased, who was
in ward to the late John Lord Boteler, who had left Lord Dunsmore
and Endymion Porter his executors. Mr. Belasyse, to redeem the
wardship, gave Lord Dunsmore and Mr. Porter a statute upon all
his lands for 2,500l., and was bound to make a variety of other
payments which are here set forth. The lady's lands were worth
430l. per annum in possession and 370l. per annum in reversion,
but she was only 18 years of age, and if she died before she arrived
at 21 all was gone. [1 p.] |
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51. Petition of — to the King. That his Majesty would
erect an examiner in every county to the purpose in the annexed
paper expressed, and to grant petitioner the nomination of them, on
an annual payment. [Endorsed "Mr. Pitcairne." [1 p.] Annexed, |
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51. i. Proposal for establishment of an examiner in every
county, for taking depositions of witnesses to be examined
by commission in causes depending in the Star Chamber,
Chancery, Exchequer, Court of Wards, Court of Requests,
Duchy of Lancaster, and the Councils established in Wales
and the North. [1½ p.] |
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52. Petition of Nicholas Page, clerk, to the King. Your Majesty
heard the difference between the Earl of Berkshire and petitioner
concerning his patent for his invention for drying malt with an
oven to bake bread, and granted him liberty to prove his priority
of invention at law. Petitioner is informed that your Majesty is,
through the solicitation of the Earl, again to hear the said difference
within few days, and to order a commission in the interim for examination of witnesses on both parts. Petitioner cannot suddenly
be provided of commissioners, and draw up interrogatories, and bring
in his witnesses, and is informed by his counsel that this way will
be more tedious and far more chargeable than a trial at law. Prays
either to be left to a trial at law, or to have longer time for choice of
commissioners and examination of witnesses. [2/3 p.] |
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53. Petition of John Lord Pawlett to the same. About three years
ago petitioner lent Sir John Philpot 1,000l., and for security took bond
from Sir John, his eldest son Henry, and Sir Richard and Sir Walter
Titchborne. Two years since Sir John died, leaving his son Henry
his heir. Petitioner was forced to put his bond in suit, and prosecuted the parties to outlawry. Since then Henry Philpot has conveyed away his estate, and absents himself, knowing that on his
death his estate, being entailed, is no ways liable, and Sir Richard
and Sir Walter Titchborne have obtained a protection, whereby petitioner is in danger of losing his debt. Prays his Majesty to withdraw his protection from Sir Richard and Sir Walter Titchborne.
[2/3 p.] |
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54. Probably proposed renewed Royal Protection to Sir Richard
Titchborne. [1½ p.] |
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55. Petition of Richard Halford and Jane his wife to the Council.
About five years since petitioner Jane lent Sir John Philpot on his
bond and that of Sir Richard and Sir Walter Titchborne 500l. Sir
John, dying, made over to Sir Richard and Sir Walter leases to the
value of 600l. per annum, to discharge that and other debts, and yet
no payment is made, Sir Richard and Sir Walter standing upon his
Majesty's protection. Pray that Sir Richard Titchborne's protection
may not be renewed. [2/3 p.] |
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56. Petition of Henry Whitney, notary public, to Sir John Lambe
and the Doctors Advocates. The steward's place of the Commons
now stands void. Prays the appointment for Geoffrey Whitney, petitioner's brother. [½ p.] |
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57. Petition of Captain Thomas Lindsay to the Council. Has
been for almost six weeks in custody of two messengers for supposed
words which he never spake. Prays to be discharged, putting in
security for appearance. [½ p.] |
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58. Petition of John Mogridge, yeoman of the leash to the Queen,
to the King. His Majesty granted to Edward Wilkinson the reversion of the messenger's office in the Court of Wards after William
Browne. Prays a like grant in reversion after Edward Wilkinson.
[2/3 p.] |
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59. Petition of John Smith and Mary his wife to Sir John Lambe.
There have been divers suits in law between Susan Radcliff alias
Bright, who claims the said John Smith to be her husband, and petitioners, as well at common as civil law, and about half a year since she
commenced a suit in the High Commission Court, which was referred
to your worship to determine, "whether of the said two women should
be the lawful wife of the said John Smith." Smith being a very poor
man, petitioners pray licence to follow the said suit in formâ pauperis.
[½ p.] |
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60. Petition of Sir Robert Wolseley, Clerk of the Patents in the
Court of Chancery, to the King. Has been questioned before the
Commissioners for Exacted Fees, and has given his final answer, with
which they are not satisfied. Prays reference to the commissioners
for regulating his fees upon such composition as they shall think fit.
[⅓ p.] |
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61. Petition of Thomas Crosland of Quarmby, co. York, clothier,
to Archbishop Laud. Prays him to peruse the petition annexed, and
to order that it be read at the Council, and that the Lords will be
pleased to refer the examination of petitioner's grievances. [½ p.]
Annexed, |
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61. i. Petition of Thomas Crosland to the Council. For the space
of 20 years petitioner has been vexed by suits, as well before
the Council at York as in the King's Bench and elsewhere,
by means of Edward North, William Penny, and others to
the number of 20. They would never stand to any trials,
and when petitioner has obtained references have contemptuously slighted them. They have thereby brought petitioner to ruin, and now threaten the destruction of his
wife and children. Prays relief. [2/3 p.] |
|
62. Minute of Order of Council on a complaint of the Earl of
Suffolk against Sir James Ouchterlony. Sir James Ouchterlony,
deceased, assigned 87l. 9s. due to him upon bond by Thomas Talbot,
receiver of Yorkshire, in trust for payment of 25l. to the lieutenant
and gunner of the fort in Holy Island, and the rest to others,
which bond Sir James, being a joint executor, has released, so that
the trustees cannot recover it. It is ordered that the money shall
be paid back by Sir James, if he has received it, if not that Mr. Talbot
shall pay it. [Underwritten by Nicholas, "Mr. Talbot hath the
money." 2/3 p.] |
|
63. Notes of the judgment of the Court of Arches in a tithe suit
between John Smith, a holder of lands in the parish of Rushden, co.
Northampton, and Thomas Whitby, rector of the same parish, with
notes of Sir John Lambe. [= 1¾ p.] |
|
64. Proposal of certain persons, whose names do not appear, but
who state that they have acquired a knowledge of military discipline
in foreign service, for the reformation of the cavalry of England and
Wales. They desire letters patent whereby they may be made his
Majesty's servants, to assist the Lord Lieutenants, Deputy Lieutenants, Captains, &c., at their several musters, by keeping a list of all
those "who are required to find," instructing them in horsemanship,
providing them with useful arms, and training them according to the
best discipline then in use. For their salary they refer it to his
Majesty. [1½ p.] |
|
65. Petition of Lady Lucy Grantham, widow, to the Council.
Was sent for by a messenger for default of finding arms at the
musters in Nottinghamshire, but by reason of continual suits which
she has had since the death of her last husband, Sir Thomas Grantham,
she has been very little in Nottinghamshire, where she has a small
jointure by a former husband, and consequently never had notice
that she was charged. Prays discharge upon submission and conformity hereafter, offering to give bond to bring a certificate of
conformity from the Earl of Newcastle, Lord Lieutenant of that
county. [½ p.] |
|
66. Edward Viscount Wimbledon to the King. Remonstrance
concerning means, without his Majesty's charge, for repairing his
forts and castles, and especially Portsmouth. His Majesty has put the
Navy in order. The Viscount beseeches him to consider the
bulwarks, bastions and "rampiers" of the kingdom. It is a common
"nationary" law that the defence of a people ought to be maintained
by the common charge. Queen Elizabeth, in time of a general
peace, fortified Portsmouth upon the freehold inheritance of her
subjects. The Viscount sees no reason why the King should not lay
a general charge over the whole kingdom for fortifying all places
selected by the Council of State and War. No place deserves more
charge to be bestowed upon it than Portsmouth, both by reason of
its situation and its being the frontier town, as it were, upon the
Low Countries, France and Spain. The Viscount hopes the King
will be as well pleased to repair it as Queen Elizabeth was to build
it, and by a judgment of Gascoigne, in 13th Henry IV., the King
may charge his people, without the especial assent of the commons,
to anything that may be for the benefit of the common people.
Suggests that the money may be levied by tolls all over the kingdom.
[2¼ pp.] |
|
67. Minute of application from the Lord Warden to Sec. Windebank, that his Majesty may be moved to grant a special warrant
for repair of the castles of Dover, &c. Reference will cause delay.
Therefore it is desired that the Lord Warden and the Earl of Newport may depute such commissioners as they shall see cause, to be
accountable as his Majesty shall appoint. Camber Castle being
altogether unserviceable, should be sold for repair of the other castles,
and the soldiers, about ten, may be added to the gunners in Dover
Castle, there now being but 16. [2/3 p.] |
|
68. A treatise by Sir John Borough, Keeper of the Records in the
Tower of London, entitled "The Sovereignty of the Seas of England
proved by Records, History, and Municipal Laws of the Kingdom;
also a particular relation concerning the inestimable riches and
commodities of the British seas." [pp. 98, besides the title page.] |
|
69. The Council to the Officers of the Navy. Ten ships have been
recommended as fit for the King's service (whereof two are to be
sent to Sallee, and the rest to be employed on the English coasts).
The officers are to sign charter-parties to the owners for payment
of their charges as herein stated. They are also to contract with
John Graves and Robert Trankmore for building two pinnaces for
present service at Sallee. The Treasurer of the Navy is also prayed
to engage himself for payment of the moneys before mentioned, for
which he shall have allowance in his account of the country moneys
for 1637. [Underwritten is a list of the ten ships above mentioned.
Written between 1st January and 25th March 1636–7. Draft.
3 pp.] |
|
70. Sir Henry Palmer and Kenrick Edisbury to the Lords of the
Admiralty. Give account of fees and allowances granted to the
Comptroller and Surveyor of the Navy at the institution of those
offices, at which time a groat was of as much value as twelvepence
at present. The payments to the former officer were 155l. 6s. 8d.,
out of which he paid 13l. 11s. for his liberate poundage and fees in
the Exchequer; the latter 145l. 6s. 8d., with a similar deduction of
13l. 6s. All the officers have clerks borne in the ordinary, but
it costs the comptroller and surveyor 30l. a year each for two clerks
diet. Pray the Lords to consider the great expense they have undergone these last three years of extraordinary service. [1 p.] |
|
71. [Sec. Coke to Algernon Earl of Northumberland.] The
Prince Elector and Prince Robert go hence on Monday to embark
the next day. His Majesty thinks it requisite that the Earl should
see the Prince aboard, and receive him with such honour as is fitting
for his Majesty's nephew. The Prince is to choose his own ship, but
the Earl to carry the flag. When the Prince has landed at Goree or
Flushing, the Earl is to take his leave, but Sir Henry Mervin may
wait upon the Prince to the Hague. [Probably written in June
1637. See Vol. ccclxii., No. 64. Draft. 1 p.] |
|
72. Sir Henry Marten to [Sec. Coke]. I received from Mr.
Weckherlin, your servant, a translation of that memorial lately presented to his Majesty by the Dutch ambassador against [George]
Henley, with this, that you would be glad to hear my opinion
thereupon. The sum of all therein contained is this, that the letters
of reprisal granted to Henley are not well grounded, because justice
was neither denied nor delayed, which the ambassador proves thus,
because Henley had a former sentence for him and a latter against
him, and that latter pronounced by judges of great worth. The
answer is easy, viz., that a sentence is not made just by the rules of
the civil law or by domestic practice, but by reality of truth. If
not supported with some reasons that may give satisfaction, a judgment is so far from justifying the wrong as that it adds further
contumely. Henley does not require his goods because he had a
former sentence, but because, being a merchant, he had by lawful
trade purchased those sugars, which were upon the seas violently
and piratically taken from him by a man of war of Holland. If
the first sentence be void by occasion of any error, Henley is where
he was, lawful owner of goods whereof he was wrongfully spoiled
by a pirate, till somewhat can be shown to the contrary. [Copy.
2¾ pp.] |
|
73. Reasons why [George] Henley's letters of reprisal should
stand. These are in accordance with the preceding remarks of Sir
Henry Marten. They proceed from Henley and his partner Augustine Phillips, to whom the letters of reprisal were granted. [1¼ p.] |
|
74. The Lords of the Admiralty to Sir John Pennington. His
Majesty has given licence to Colonel John Lesley to transport
500 men out of this kingdom to Dieppe. They are to have free
convoy thither by ships under your command. [2/3 p.] |
|
75. Form to be signed by the Lords of the Admiralty, approving
an account rendered to them, and releasing the accountant. [Draft.
2/3 p.] |
|
76. Fair copy of the same. [1¼ p.] |
|
77. Petition of Job Harby, merchant, and the rest of the tin
farmers, to the Lords of the Admiralty. They have freighted the
ship Mary of 400 tons, Roger Martin master, for transportation of
tin to the Straits. The said ship is chosen by the Officers of the
Navy for next summer's expedition. There are in the Thames ships
every way as fit for the said service. Petitioner is owner of one
fourth of the Hercules, and the owners of the Mary are interested
in the Industry and Unicorn, all three taken up for the same service.
Pray warrant for discharge of the Mary. [2/3 p.] |
|
78. Petition of John Reston, Keeper of his Majesty's prison
at Dover, to the same. By their warrant to the Lord Warden, command was given for imprisoning seventeen Frenchmen
upon suspicion of piracy, whereupon warrant was given to
petitioner for their safe-keeping, dated 9th July 1636, and he
kept 15 of them for seven months with diet and lodging. These
Frenchmen had two shallops, which were ordered to be sold, and
thereout the charge of their imprisonment to be paid. The said
shallops were sold by John Jacob, Sergeant of the Admiralty of the
Cinque Ports, in whose hands the money remains. Prays order for
payment thereout. [¾ p.] |
|
79. Petition of John Reston, Keeper of his Majesty's prison at
Dover, to the Lords of the Admiralty. Another petition to the
same effect, with prayer for directions to the Lord Warden to
examine petitioner's charges, and thereupon to give order for
petitioner's satisfaction. [¾ p.] |
|
80. Order of the Lords of the Admiralty. Sir Henry Marten, Judge
of the Admiralty, having decreed before sentence given to Henley and
Phillips that the moiety of the hides should be sold, we order the
Registrar of the Delegates to issue a commission authorizing the
petitioner Nicholas Polhill to dispose of the goods, and such part of
the ship, the Golden Wolf, as amount to 4,966l., such proportion
being decreed to Nicholas Polhill and partners. [Copy. 2/3 p.] |
|
81. Nicholas Polhill to the King. Remonstrance of the various
steps which had been taken in his suit against the Dutch of Rotterdam, till Sept. 1637, when Sir Henry Marten recommended to
Sec. Windebank, that either his Majesty should grant Polhill letters
[of reprisal] under the Great Seal, or should give the Lords of the
Admiralty a special commission for granting the same. [1 p.] |
|
82. Another statement of the same proceedings, but differing
somewhat in the particulars mentioned. [1 p.] |
|
83. Petition of Daniel Brames, Citizen and Clothworker of London,
to the Lords of the Admiralty. A suit was lately depending before
the Judges Delegates between Edward Carpenter, since deceased,
and Captain Daniel Hardenburch of Middleburg, wherein the latter
has been condemned in 750l. Petitioner, by advice of the ambassador
of the States, became bail for the said captain, the States writing
their letter to the said ambassador that the suit should be followed
at the charges of their country. The suit was for freight of an
English ship laden with Portuguese goods taken by the said captain,
which goods were disposed of by the Admiralty of Zealand, who
have power to call the parties who shared in the prize to contribute
their parts towards satisfaction of the freight. Prays licence to
bring his action against such shipping of Middelburg as shall come
into any port of England for the said 750l., for satisfaction thereof
to the widow of the plaintiff. Annexed, |
|
83. i. The States to Sir [Albertus] Joachimi, their ambassador.
Directing him to follow the said suit at the country's
charge and peril. 5th January 1636. [Copy. 2/3 p.] |
|
83. ii. Statement of the distribution of the goods contained in
the prize brought in by Captain Daniel Hardenburch on
the 26 May 1633, and adjudged by the Court of Admiralty
of Zealand to be a good prize. [1 p.] |
|
84. State of account of John Crane, Victualler of the Navy,
for extraordinary victualling this year. Total of the charge,
32,895l. 15s. 9d. Total of the discharge, 34,007l. 5s. 6½d. Surplusage, 2,224l. 19s. 7½d. of which 1,114l. 9s. 10d. is charged as the
value of remains of victual, casks, &c., which ought to have been
returned to the accountant, but were converted to private benefit.
[1 p.] |
|
85. Notes by Nicholas. To move his Majesty, from the Commission of the Admiralty, concerning the petition of William Felgate
and others, retailers of gunpowder and munition for shipping (see
Vol. ccclxviii., No. 112); and about the warrant for Mr. Ferris
executing the place of cook in the great ship by himself or his
deputy, which is not agreeable to warrants for officers in his Majesty's
ships. [Endorsed are various memoranda relating to the importation and sale of gunpowder. 1½ p.] |
|
86. Commissioners for Revision of Sentences given in the Court of
Admiralty to George Fielding, Registrar of the Court of Delegates.
To receive an appeal made by Gaspar Burt against Humphrey
Hooke and Thomas Hooke, and to issue a munition for transferring
the proceedings to the commissioners. [Draft of warrant calendared
under date of 3rd May 1637. 1 p.] |
|
87. Draft, in the handwriting of Nicholas, of the operative part
of the above, or a similar direction in some other cause. [¼ p.] |
|
88. George Rookes to George Rudolph Weckherlin. I pray you
that effectual letters may be written from his Majesty to France,
touching restitution to be made for ships and goods taken by the
French since the conclusion of peace, viz., the James, the Benediction,
and the Bride, to the value of 50,000l. [1 p.] |
|
89. List of the master and the company of a ship not named;
Richard Hussey, master. [1 p.] |
|
90. Petition of John Jacobson Boyerman and others, owners of
the Fortune of Hoorn, to the King. State the facts before calendared of the seizure of their ship by Thomas Gayner at Knockfergus; its arrest by petitioners at Plymouth; the claim to it set up
by Don John de Nicolaldi and his brother Don Michael; the judgment of the Court of Admiralty in favour of petitioners; the appeal
to the Lords of the Admiralty by the Spanish resident; and release
of the ship by his Majesty. It is now added that the Lords of the
Admiralty disagreed among themselves, and that the Earl of Lindsey, Lord Cottington, and Sec. Windebank, against the liking of the
Earl of Dorset, and in the absence of Sir Henry Vane and Sec. Coke,
upon a Sunday dedicated to the Holy Trinity, on which since the
kingdom stood never any sentence was pronounced, revoked the
sentence of the Admiralty, whereby petitioners are much damnified,
besides the prejudice of the States General. Pray his Majesty to
command the cause to be reviewed. [Endorsed by Sec. Coke as presented by the States Ambassador. 2/3 p.] |
|
91. Petition of Thomas Leddoze, of Weymouth and Melcombe
Regis, merchant, to the Council. Last year petitioner and his
partners set forth the Marigold from Weymouth to Lisbon, where
the ship's boat was seized by one Alfera and six soldiers, who put
to sea therein, but being followed in another boat by the master of
the Marigold, a fray ensued, in which Alfera was wounded, and forced
to relinquish the boat. Alfera having complained of his hurt, petitioner's ship and goods have been ever since detained, and the master,
with three of his company, and one Mr. Lowe, have been imprisoned
for nine months. Prays that means may be taken for their delivery,
and restoration of their ship and goods. [1 p.] |
|
92. Petition of Anthony Lowne, boatswain in the St. George, to
the Lords of the Admiralty. For 12 years petitioner has been
employed as boatswain without reproof, but of late he has been sent
for by a messenger from Portsmouth, and examined by the masters
of the Trinity House concerning expense of junks and other pieces
of cordage, and for the same has been prickt out of victuals and
wages. Being employed in the St. George for carriage over seas of
the Prince Elector Palatine, in the said voyage, through extremity of
weather, he spent three top-masts, and on many other occasions has
been constrained to expend cordage for the safety of the ship. Is
most sorrowful that he has incurred displeasure, and prays to be
again admitted into victuals and wages, and to have leave to return
to Portsmouth to attend his Majesty's service. [¾ p.] |
|
93. Petition of Henry Butler, who executed the purser's place for
two years in the Fifth Lion's Whelp, to the King. That ship being
in convoy of the Prince Palatine's goods, was cast away, to the utter
undoing of petitioner, having served eleven years, and in service lost
the use of his left hand. Being destitute, he implores your Majesty's
favour. Prays the next purser's place that shall fall void. [½ p.] |
|
94. Petition of William Brissenden, purser of the Providence, to
the Lords of the Admiralty. Has been 14 years in his Majesty's
service. In the late expedition to Sallee he observed divers abuses
committed by Edmund Seaman, captain, and William Bramble,
master, of the said pinnace, the particulars whereof are annexed.
By reason of some of the abuses the pinnace now in the Downs is
destitute of beer. Prays that order may be taken with the captain
and master for their abuses. [2/3 p.] Annexed, |
|
94. i. Objections against Capt. Edmund Seaman and William
Bramble. The acts alleged are pillaging ships taken,
sale of cables and other stores belonging to the Providence,
and excessive consumption of the beer. Signed by
William Brissenden. [2 pp.] |
|
94. ii. Duplicate of the same, signed by four other persons belonging to the Providence, besides William Brissenden.
[2½ pp.] |
|
95. Certificate of John Wale, purveyor of timber for the Navy, ir.
Kent, of the quantities of timber carried by certain hundreds in that
county, from 1630 to 1636. [1 p.] |
|
96. Paper by Nicholas, entitled, Concerning bringing in the Arrears
of the Ship-money. Through the remissness of the sheriffs in execution of the writs of certiorari, commanding them to return into
the Petty Bag Office the names of such persons as are in arrear, with
the amounts due from them, little money has been brought in. It
is therefore offered to consideration that the Attorney-General may
appoint some person of trust to take every term a very strict
account from the sheriffs, and if it shall appear that they have been
remiss, or that they return false accounts, that they be made to pay
a good part of the arrear. If the sheriffs were thus held strictly to
their accounts, they would be more careful what answers they make,
while the parties in arrear, being put to answer in the Exchequer,
would grow wiser than to delay payment of so small a sum. If care
be not taken to get in the arrears the business of shipping will in
a short time be lost, for the arrears are more every year. [Draft.
12/3 p.] |
|
97. Answer of Sir Thomas Hendley, sheriff of Kent, as to shipmoney remaining unpaid in that county. [4 pp.] |
|
98. Copy statements of William Chapman and others as to the
inequality and injustice of the taxations for ship-money made in
Shelton in 1636 and 1637. The larger holders had been taxed at
2d. and 2½d. an acre, and some of the poor tenants at 4d., 1s., and
even 2s. 4d. an acre. [1 p.] |
|
99. Return of John Higgins, one of the chief constables of the
hundred of Huntington, co. Hereford, of persons who have not paid
their ship-money in his division. Total, 19s. 2d. [1 p.] |
|
100. Similar return of Walter Pember, the other chief constable of
the same hundred. Total, 1s. [¼ p.] |
|
101. Lists of persons in the parish of Enfield who have been
raised and of those abated for the ship-money by the sheriff of
Middlesex, contrary to the assessment made by the parishioners.
Among the latter are Sir Thomas Trevor, Baron of the Exchequer,
Sir Nicholas Rainton, and Dr. Roberts, vicar of the parish. [2 pp.] |
|
102. Note of sums abated and those increased in several of the
writs for ship-money issued in 1637. [2/3 p.] |
|
103. Note of ship-money paid in 1637 by the Lord Mayor, aldermen Andrew, Smith, Cramer, and Gerrard, and Sir Nicholas Rainton.
The first three there were 10l. each, the next two 8l., and Sir Nicholas
12l. [½ p.] |
|
104. Lists of the counties in England, with the sum charged on
each for ship-money, in 1636–1637. Total, 210,600l. [1 p.] |
|
105. Draft, by Nicholas, of an account of the receipt and expenditure of the ship-money in the years 1634–5, 1635–6, and 1636–7.
[4 pp.] |
|
106. Return of arrears of ship-money in co. Hertford for 1636.
Gives names, places of abode, sums assessed, and the reason of nonpayment. Many of the defaulters were very poor; many had gone
into New England; and it is stated of many of the principal persons,
as of Lord Falkland, Sir Thomas Reade, and Sir William Lytton,
that the bailiff dare not distrain, for fear of being sued. [6 pp.] |
|
107. Memorandum by Nicholas to obtain from Sir William Russell a certificate of the surcharge upon the ship-money in 1636, when
several ships were kept longer than the writs required. [4 lines.] |
|
108. Petition of John Combes, Thomas Harmwood, and Thomas
Wolvin to the Council. Richard Freake refusing to pay his shipmoney, the sheriff made a warrant for his committal, and petitioners
carried him to prison, whereupon he brought an action against them.
The judges, perceiving it was about ship-money, acquainted the
Attorney-General therewith, who applied to the Lords, and Freake
was sent for to the Board; after which there was a reference to Sir
William Goring and Walter Bartellott, by whom petitioners were
bound to appear before the Board. They attend, and have been
enforced to expend 20l., although they have done nothing but in
execution of the sheriff's warrant, as appears by the annexed certificate. Pray discharge from attendance. [Probably presented
on 17th February 1636–7. See Vol. cccxlvii., No. 47. ½ p.] Annexed, |
|
108. i. Sir William Culpeper, sheriff of Sussex, to the Council.
Certifies the circumstances under which he signed the
rate made by Combes, and sets forth the conduct of Freake
which induced him to give warrant for his being taken to
gaol. 3rd November 1636. [1 p.] |
|
109. William Walter, sheriff of co. Oxford, to [Nicholas]. Begs
to be informed, by his brother Killigrew, what sum his collection
should amount to before it be sent up. He must accompany it
to London, that country not being a place where great trades are.
[½ p.] |
|
110. Account, by the said William Walter, of the assessment of
co. Oxford for ship-money in 1636, showing how much was to be
collected by him, and how much by Lewis Harris, his under-sheriff.
[¾ p.] |
|
111. Notes, relative to the overcharge in the assessment of shipmoney by Sir Robert Banister upon Rowell [Rothwell] hundred
in co. Northampton, respecting which various papers occurred in our
last volume, pp. 39, 53, 97, 259, 350, 506. The minute facts of the
disproportion complained of are here stated, and it is contended that
the composition for provisions for the King's household did not form
a precedent for the assessment of ship-money. [1⅓ p.] |
|
112. Account, by William Bassett, late sheriff of co. Somerset, of
ship-money for 1636 remaining uncollected in that county. Total,
33l. 17s. 6d. [MS. book. 8¼ pp.] |
|
113. Account of arrears of ship-money in the hundred of Nassaburgh, co. Northampton. The principal defaulter was Lord FitzWilliam, who was in arrear in several places in this hundred,
altogether amounting to 28l. 4s. 4d. [27 lines on a slip of parchment.] |
|
114. Sir George Stonehouse, sheriff of Berks, to [Nicholas].
Pray inform Sir Dudley Carleton that the order for rates concerning
Sunning Hill made by the Justices of Assize, and which the Lords
gave order should stand, may be inserted into the order, for avoiding
future trouble. This passage being in your time of attendance, Sir
Dudley desires to receive instructions from you. [2/3 p.] |
|
115. List, by Mr. Parrat, of persons in Norfolk who refuse to pay
ship-money. Lady Peyton, executrix of Sir John Peyton, and Sir
William Herrick are amongst the defaulters. [½ p.] |
|
116. Minute of application to the Council to be made for Sir
Francis Thornhaugh, sheriff of Notts, that a messenger be sent
for Ambrose Wood and to the town of Newark, who had not fully
paid their ship-money to Sir Francis. [1 p.] |
|
117. Names of opposers of the distress taken from John Cartwright,
all being of Aynho, co. Northampton, with a note of request by
Robert Toms that he may have satisfaction for his trouble and
danger. [See Vol. ccclxvii., Nos. 32, 33, 64-67. ½ p.] |
|
118. Petition of John Burge, one of the late constables of the
hundred of Chewton, co. Somerset, to the Council. Was employed
by the hundred to obtain a reduction in the ship-money, in accordance
with an ancient rate called Hinton rate. The Lords referred the
matter to the then sheriff, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, and Mr.
Mallet, late sheriff, and the hundreds refused to pay that which
exceeded Hinton rate. Petitioner is heartily sorry now that he
understands the Lords are displeased with his proceedings therein,
and submits to pay the monies in arrear. Prays to be discharged,
and that he may receive satisfaction from the hundred for the shipmoney unpaid, and his charges. [1 p.] |
|
119. Petition of the same, here called John Burges, to the Council.
Last year, at the desire of the hundred, petitioner used means for
easing the hundred of a great overcharge in the ship-money. In
that business petitioner laid out 45l., besides the loss of 20l. in his
private employments. The hundred jury desired a rate to be made
for payment thereof. Prays that the now constables may be ordered
to make such rate. [¾ p.] |
|
120. Petition of Sir Edward Littleton, late Sheriff of co. Stafford, to
the Council. Petitioner paid in for ship-money for 1636, 2,700l. There
is an arrear of 300l., which petitioner cannot as yet levy, and is
commanded to attend the Lords. Prays until Easter term next,
for collecting the same. [½ p.] |
|
121. Petition of Sir Edward Hussey, Sheriff of co. Lincoln, to
the Council. Petitioner and the corporations of that county are
charged to pay 8,000l. for ship-money. 6,700l. is already paid by
petitioner, without the corporations. The rest he cannot get in in
due time, without some course be taken with persons refusing.
Some whole townships, and various persons whose names are underwritten, wholly refuse to pay, and divers constables, whose names are
also underwritten, refuse to perform the service. Prays that a
messenger may issue for the persons alluded to. [Underwritten are
the names of Leonard Brown, John Tolson, William Officiall,
Thomas Burton, and William Slater. ¾ p.] |
|
122. Petition of inhabitants of Horncastle Soke whose names are
underwritten, to Sir Anthony Irby, Sheriff of co. Lincoln. Wildmore Fen has always been within the said soke, which consists but
of 13 townships, yet has been rated at 2d., against 26 towns as
good and great which pay 2½d., this great tax having been laid
upon Horncastle in respect of Wildmore Common. Since the
common has been inclosed, the inhabitants of the soke are unable
to pay ship-money according to ancient rates. Pray the sheriff
either to tax the enclosed grounds with the soke, or to set such rates
upon the 13 towns as may be equal with towns in other divisions.
[Signed by 38 persons. 1 p.] |
|
123. Petition of Sir Edward Wardour to the Council. In shipmoney and other rates petitioner has always been rated at Westminster equal with any of his rank, and has readily paid. He has a
little house, with 6 acres of land, at Chiswick, where he retires in
the long summer vacation, where he is likewise rated equal with
those who hold 20 times as much land. At Easter sessions twelvemonth petitioner having complained, it was ordered that he should
be rated according to the proportion of land which he held there,
but upon this last command for ship-money Richard Smeeth and
some others rated petitioner at 40s., while Mrs. Saunders, who holds
40 times as much, is rated but at 3l., and Dr. Duck, who holds
more than 20 times, at 45s., and Richard Smeeth at 8s., none of them
being rated anywhere else for their personal estate. Prays that in
ship-money and other rates he may be rated in Chiswick only
according to the land he holds there. [2/3 p.] |
|
124. Petition of Richard Nicholas. John Hatch, and Francis
Hamond, collectors of ship-money for Pinner, Middlesex, to the same.
Petitioners have collected part of the ship-money, and have demanded
the residue, but could not obtain payment; whereupon the sheriff
thought it not fit that petitioners should distrain themselves, because
they would get the ill-will of their neighbours, therefore he promised
he would send down bailiffs to distrain, and appointed first one day
and then another, but no bailiffs came, so they conceive he has no
just cause to complain of petitioners. Pray discharge. [½ p.] |
|
125. Petition of Jonas Hunt and John Lisley, collectors of
ship-money in Paddington, Middlesex, to the Council. Petitioners
have collected the medium proportion, and have several times
demanded the residue. They gave direction to Robert Colkett, the
bailiff, to distrain; and, notwithstanding they shewed him distress
sufficient, he neglected the same, so that they are not defaulters.
Pray discharge. [½ p.] |
|
126. Petition of Sir William Russell, Treasurer of the Navy, to
the same. The sheriff of Suffolk having sent up 600l. ship-money,
petitioner's servant, Edward Fenn, asked John Dynes of Mincing
Lane, glazier, being a neighbour, and a responsible man, to receive the
money for petitioner's use, for his Majesty's service, which Dynes
did. Dynes refuses payment. Prays the Lords to take order therein.
[Probably the petition mentioned in Vol. ccclxviii. No. 12. 2/3 p.] |
|
127. Petition of Richard Knighton, constable of Artlingborough
[Irthlingborough] in co. Northampton, to the same. On complaint
that petitioner had not paid Sir Robert Banister, the late sheriff,
moneys received for ship-money by ten or eleven pounds, and had
not paid between four and five pounds which he was assessed at, he
had been sent for by a messenger. Has paid to Sir Robert the
money received. Denford being much infected with the plague, Sir
Robert wished him to forbear the collection. He did not deny
payment of his own assessment, but being assessed at 16d. in the
pound, and the townsmen but at 4d., he made complaint to Sir
Robert, and found no redress. Prays discharge. [2/3 p.] |
|
128. Return of Thomas Oxton, mayor of St. Alban's, of persons in
arrear of their ship-money for 1636. Total, 13l. 1s. [1 p.] |
|
129. Henry Mellor, mayor of Derby, to the Council. Sends particulars of assessment for ship-money taxed upon the clergy and
inhabitants of that town. [1 p.] |
|
130. Petition of John Hope, mayor of Derby, to the same. Petitioner was summoned to attend the Lords concerning ship-money,
which he has punctually observed. On account of age and infirmities,
prays he may be called before them and dismissed. [⅓ p.] |
|
131. Petition of Thomas Welles, of Ashton, co. Northampton, to
the same. Was maintained in a house belonging to his brother, John
Welles, out of charity, but was assessed 18d. ship-money, and his
brother 5s. 6d., for the same lands. The sheriff gave warrant to
Thomas Cooper and Robert Toms to distrain, who took a horse
from off the common, which being lent to petitioner, a maid-servant
of his, without his knowledge, rescued the same. The Lords have
ordered the Attorney-General to prefer an information against petitioner in the Star Chamber, on which he attends. He submits
himself, and prays that paying the 18d. he may be dismissed. [2/3 p.] |
|
132. Petition of Francis Sawyer, of —, in co. Northampton, to
the Council. Petitioner has paid his own ship-money, and also that
for friends who have refused the same. Nevertheless he has been
complained of to the Lords by William Drury, a bailiff, a man of
very ill fame, who has collected divers men's moneys, and kept them
to his own use; and when he had distrained he restored no overplus,
and has followed petitioner with unjust molestations. Prays reference
to some of the justices of co. Northampton. [⅓ p.] |
|
133. Petition of the Sheriff and Justices of Peace of co. Hereford,
on behalf of themselves and others the inhabitants of that county, to
the same. His Majesty, at several times of late, has required supplies
of ship-money. We find the burden to be very heavy, which we
conceive arises from the unequal distribution of the charge upon us
as compared with other counties. The county is small, and the sickness so much dispersed as we are charged with 55l. a week to relieve
one town, and it is lately begun in Hereford and other places. Pray
the Lords to reduce the rate to a proportion suitable with other
counties. [1 p.] |
|
134. Petition of Sir John Shelley, of Michelgrove, Sussex, to the
same. Has been appointed by Sir Edward Bishop, sheriff of Sussex,
grand collector of ship-money for the rape of Arundel, whereas in
the two precedent payments the sheriffs used the constables and
other petty collectors for that purpose. To any employment that
concerns his Majesty's service petitioner shall bring hearty devotion;
yet, regarding the gout confines him to his house, and that his
dwelling is in another rape, he represents the unfitness of the choice.
Prays to be freed thereof. [See Vol. cccxliv., No. 10. 2/3 p.] |
|
135. Petition of Justices of Peace, inhabitants, and freeholders of
co. Flint to the same. The last two years, viz. 1635 and 1636,
petitioners have been assessed 738l. 4s. 8d. and 16l. upon Flint
for ship-money. Conceiving themselves overcharged, they became
suitors that they might be relieved. The consideration of the premises was referred to Sir John Bridgeman, who has set down a new
rate for Denbigh, Montgomery, and Flint, otherwise than was heretofore observed in the six counties of North Wales, wherein he had
no reference. Pray letters of reference to the Lord President of the
Marches of Wales and Sir John Bridgeman, to settle an indifferent
rate for North and South Wales. [1 p.] |
|
136. Petition of the inhabitants of the hundreds of Bruton and
Norton Ferris, Somerset, to the same. State their previous complaints
against Henry Hodges, formerly sheriff, for unequally taxing them in
the business of shipping, the reference to the bishop of the diocese
and the then present sheriff, and their order that petitioners should
be eased; notwithstanding the said unjust tax laid by Mr. Hodges
still rests upon them, and they are threatened to have it levied.
Pray to be eased, according to the order of the referees, of 80l., and
that direction be given to the present sheriff to rate them equally.
[10 signatures. 1 p.] |
|
137. Petition of Pentecost Doddridge, late mayor of Barnstaple,
to the Council. In the time of his mayoralty he received writ for
levying 150l. ship-money, and made shift to pay in 138l. 8s., in
gathering which he was forced to take away with his own hands
goods from some, and imprison others. In consideration of his pains
in his Majesty's service, prays that he may not be liable to the
11l. 10s. which is behind, the same being impossible to be gathered,
as may be judged by the schedule annexed. [¾ p.] Annexed, |
|
137. i. Names of those who have not paid ship-money at Barnstaple. Among them is John Delbridge, dead, 3l.; Richard
Delbridge, his son and executor, 10s.; and Martin Black,
the vicar, who says he ought not to pay 15s. [¾ p.] |
|
138. Another petition of the same, on behalf of himself and the
corporation of Barnstaple, to the same. States the receipt of
138l. 12s. [sic] out of 150l. as above, the collection of which had
occasioned much grudging and repining, and many threats of actions
for the distresses taken by his authority, as was already done to
some former mayors. Complains of the unequal assessment of the
town. The Council fixed it at 100l., but the sheriff took off 50l.
from Exeter and thrust it on Barnstaple; and for the county rates
on that place men of greatest worth are rated least, those who
have a small tenement of 20l. being rated at 20s., whilst, in the
south part of the county such persons pay 3d. or 4d. in the pound
at the most. Pray them to accept petitioner's account, and to grant
them relief in assessment and protection from actions for having
taken distresses in the King's service. [1 p.] |
|
139. Petition of Henry Kyme, messenger of the chamber, to the
same. Petitioner was employed for Mr. William Stroud, of co.
Somerset, for nonpayment of ship-money, in which journey he rode
250 miles in a tedious and bitter season. Prays order that Mr. Stroud
may pay him his fees. [1 p.] |
|
140. Petition of the Cinque Ports to the same. In ancient time,
when the five ports were to find 57 ships, 15 days together, at their
own cost, and afterwards as long as the King pleased, at his own
pay, those boats which served were of so small burthen that
they were managed by 21 men and a gromett or ship-boy, and there
was allowed, and still is, when fifteenths or tenths are granted by
parliament, a good proportion from the adjacent hundreds to help to
support the ports. The sea has left Hythe, Romney, Lydd, and
Winchelsea, and not a fisher-boat, save at Hythe, where they arrive
a mile from the town. At Folkstone the sea has eaten up four
parishes and the churches, and there is not any boat of service. The
channel of Sandwich Haven swarves up so that no vessel of any
burden can come in; boats there be some that carry corn to London
or fetch coals, but trade of merchandise there is none. The pier at
Rye is of late supported and serves fisher-boats for the King's provision, and for the passage to Dieppe. The last supply they have
with all cheerfulness performed, though it were very heavy in regard
of their extreme poverty, and the extraordinary charge they are at
in finding arms, and supporting the government of those poor places
where none of any account would dwell but that they are constrained
by a late order procured by the Lord Warden; but the posterity of
such as have any estate forego their dwellings, because of the great
charge, and so very poor men are fain to exercise the quality of justices of peace. Pray to be eased as much as conveniently they may,
and that as they bear the brunt from the county, which is large, rich,
and populous, so they may now help to ease them. [1 p.] |
|
141. Petition of Richard Price, sheriff of co. Cardigan, to the Council.
Endeavouring to levy the ship-money, he tried by all fair and gentle
means, but could not receive one penny, so that he was compelled
to distrain oxen, kine, horses, sheep, household stuff, and implements
of husbandry, the which petitioner can get no money for, nor any
man to offer for them one penny, though often set at sale. Prays
directions what he shall do therein. [2/3 p.] |
|
142. Petition of Joseph Rea, deputy bailiff of Westminster, to the
same. Prays that he may remain in the messenger's custody until
he shall pay or put in security to pay 100l. ship-money, remaining
in his hands collected, the rest being already paid to the Treasurer
of the Navy. About 400l. remains to levy, of 3,166l. assessed on
Westminster for two years past. [⅓ p.] |
|
143. Certificate of Ralph Pollard, mayor of St. Alban's, to the
same. Has been very earnest with certain persons under-named for
payment of their ship-money, but cannot obtain it, nor find any of
their goods. The list which follows includes Sir John Jenyns, K.B.,
4l.; Robert Sadleir, 10s.; Edward Bardolph, 25s. He has disbursed
11l. 10s.; and except the Board set some directions is like to lose it.
[1 p.] |
|
144. Certificate made by John Lake, constable of the hundred of
Axton, Kent, that John Swane has done the King service. [4 lines.] |
|
145. [Commissioners for Trade?] to the Council. Report on the
proper provision of powder necessary to be supplied by the gunpowder maker. Mr. Meautys had collected out of the muster books
that the number of trained men amounted to 98,957, of whom 54,117
were musketeers, and the horse 5,239. Their supply would take
94 lasts 3 cwt. 46 lbs. To these was to be added the supply of
castles, of the navy, and of merchant ships, all which made up a total
of 191 lasts 11 cwt. and 46 lbs., to which was to be added 100 lasts
13 cwt. and 46 lbs. for store in hand, making up 291 lasts 22 cwt.
and 46 lbs. [Draft. 3 pp.] |
|
146. Notes by Nicholas, to speak with his Majesty from the
Commission of the Admiralty upon various matters connected with
the price of gunpowder, the insertion of the Earl of Newport in the
commission for sale of gunpowder, and an application of Bagnall, the
saltpetreman, that he may dig for saltpetre in Woodstock House.
[See Vols. cccxlvi., No. 72., cccxlviii., No. 6. 1 p.] |
|
147. Draft of the same notes. [1 p.] |
|
148. [Edward Nicholas] to [Richard Poole]. To prepare deputation to Tobias Atkins, to make saltpetre in Devon, Cornwall, Salop,
and six counties in South Wales. [Form of letter. ½ p.] |
|
149. Similar form of letter for Hugh Grove, for cos. Cambridge,
Huntingdon, Rutland, and Lincoln. [½ p.] |
|
150. Similar form for Alexander Harris, for London and Westminster, and their suburbs within two miles in Middlesex, Kent,
Surrey, and suburbs of Southwark. [½ p.] |
|
151. Similar form for Nathaniel Sykes, for Essex, Suffolk, and
Norfolk. [½ p.] |
|
152. Similar form for Edward Thornhill, for cos. Hertford, Bedford, Northampton, and Buckingham. [½ p.] |
|
153. Similar form for Francis Vincent, for Kent, Sussex, and
Surrey. [½ p.] |
|
154. Similar form for Richard Bagnall, for cos. Oxford, Warwick,
Berks, Middlesex, and Hants. [½ p.] |
|
155. Petition of Deputies for Saltpetre to the Commissioners
for Saltpetre and Gunpowder. Mr. Cordewell, the powder maker,
contrary to the contract made by you with us your deputies, refuses
to pay for our saltpetre. Having laid out our estates in this service,
having great store of petre on hand, and this being the time to make
our provisions to go on with the work in winter, we are enforced to
represent that, except our saltpetre be taken off our hands, and
money paid for the same, we must strike our works, and discharge
our servants, which will be to our extreme loss, besides the prejudice
to the King's service. [⅓ p.] |
|
156. Petition of Alexander Harris, Richard Bagnall, Edward
Thornhill, and Nathaniel Sykes, Deputies for Saltpetre, to the same.
His Majesty being to be served with saltpetre at a price certain,
however materials of wages rise or fall, it was provided that your
deputies should take carts and carriages at 6d. per mile for a ton, or
a draught at statute wages of 14d. per day, which otherwise would
have been four times so much; and likewise to take ashes and coals
at reasonable prices, which last formerly could be procured for 13s.,
14s., or 15s.; but now the corporation of shipmasters for coals stand
upon an order that in some months they shall not sell under 17s.,
and in others at 19s. Petitioners pray that they may take at price
certain, a small proportion of coal out of each ship, as has been
accustomed. [2/3 p.] |
|
157. [Nicholas?] to the Commissioners for Saltpetre and Gunpowder. Report on the alleged non-fulfilment by Mr. Evelyn, the
late gunpowder-maker, of his contracts. On investigation, it appears
that he brought in gunpowder in proportion to the quantity of
saltpetre supplied to him. By marginal alterations, Nicholas has converted this paper into the draft of the report from the Commissioners
to the King, which is calendared under the date of 8th July 1637.
[1½ p.] |
|
158. Duplicate of the preceding draft report as originally prepared. [1½ p.] |
|
159. A note by Nicholas of what a barrel and what a last of
powder comes to at 1s. 6d. in the lb., all fees being paid. [2 pp.] |
|
160. Account of gain made by the King on gunpowder issued this
year. The cost had been 18,000l. There had been a gain on the
amount issued for the fleet of 4,286l. 5s., and on that sold to the
subject of 10,500l.; total gain, 14,786l. 5s. [1 p.] |
|
161. Account of the cost and profit to the King upon the manufacture of gunpowder paid for at the rate of 7½ per lb., or 75l. per
last, and sold at 18d. per pound; the profit was 105l. per last.
[½ p.] |
|
162. Similar account, in which the profit on 15½ lasts is shown to
be 1,627l. 10s. [1 p.] |
|
163. The Lords Commissioners for Saltpetre and Gunpowder to
Montjoy Earl of Newport. To deliver six barrels of gunpowder to
Richard Buggins, merchant, to be sent into France, and there to be
sold on his Majesty's account. [See Vol. ccclv., No. 61, calendared
under date of 31 May 1637, in which this letter appears with
the name of Bogan instead of Buggins. 1 p.] |
|
164. Petition of all the owners of ships belonging to Bristol to the
Lords of the Admiralty. Petitioners, in obedience to the proclamation, take their provision of powder out of the store in the Tower;
but their ships being long abroad, their powder grows dank. Pray
warrant to repair their decayed powder. [½ p.] |
|
165. Petition of Robert Davies to the Council. Was ordered by
the Council, in February last, to give bond in 500l. never to make
any gunpowder, since which time he never did; yet, upon wrong
information, the officers of the Tower have seized upon saltpetre
which he had before making the order. Prays that he may have
for the same the price he paid for it. [½ p.] |
|
166. Petition of Robert Light, saltpetreman, to the same. Two
years since, by ignorance of his servants, he broke open the castle of
Hardinge, co. Flint, to search for saltpetre, but with better advice
none was taken within. Petitioner has justly suffered in the messenger's custody, and had his commission taken from him. Professes
penitence, and prays discharge. [⅓ p.] |
|
167. Petition of Deputy Lieutenants of co. York to the Council.
Recite warrant from the Council to the Earl of Newport for 3½ lasts
of gunpowder at 12d. per lb., for supply of magazine of co. York.
The money was not then levied by reason of last year's infection.
As the warrant was granted before the price of powder was raised,
pray a renewal of the same at the same rate. [¾ p.] Annexed, |
|
167. i. The Council to the Earl of Newport. Warrant above
mentioned. Whitehall, 30th November 1635. [2/3 p.] |
|
168. Minute of warrant to the Officers of the Ordnance to take up
20 tons of saltpetre in the custody of Mr. Fletcher, belonging to the
Barbary merchants, and to deliver it to Mr. Cordewell, his Majesty's
gunpowder maker, paying for the refined 3l. 3s. 4d. the cwt., and for
the unrefined 45s. [¼ p.] |
|
169. Form of warrant, probably proposed to be granted to a
messenger, to attach all mayors and other officers of corporations
who ought to collect his Majesty's casual revenues, but have not
accounted for the same for 13 years last past, and safely to keep
them until they give security to appear in the Exchequer, and pass
their accounts, the messenger taking of every such corporation for
expenses only 50s., and of the bailiff of every liberty only 20s.
[26 lines on parchment.] |
|
170. William Richardson to —. States in what manner a clear
profit of 2,500l. per annum might arise to his Majesty, payable out
of the alum business. The works have for the last four years
yielded the rent of 15,000l. per annum, with sufficient profit to
the renter, Mr. Burlamachi, who is willing to continue them at the
same rate. Without intimation of this advance, a grant has been
procured, to commence at Christmas next, at 12,500l. per annum.
Burlamachi has advanced the manufacture from 900 tons, 1,200, and
1,500, to 2,000 tons, and resolves, if he may have the works, to
advance them to 2,400 tons per annum. His Majesty at the time
of making the grant in reversion was a stranger to this improvement.
It is fit the patentees in reversion should give his Majesty the 15,000l.
per annum, or leave the works to his Majesty to dispose of to his
best advantage. [1½ p.] |
|
171. Petition of Sir Paul Pindar, Farmer of his Majesty's Alum
Works, to the Council. Petition, which is recited in a letter founded
upon it calendared under date of 26th May 1637. Vol. ccclvii.,
No. 85. [1 p.] |
