|
Dec. 1.
Westminster. |
1. The King to the University of Cambridge. Walter Walker,
commissary for co. Bedford, having completed the term of years
for his degree of doctor of law, and given in his questions to
Dr. Goad, law professor, you are required by these letters to call
a congregation, and pass a grace admitting him to that degree, he
first putting in sufficient caution to you, not only to keep and
perform the acts and exercise by the laws and statutes of our
university appertaining to that degree, but particularly and
especially to answer the Law Act at the next commencement, as
he has undertaken to us to do. [Draft, signed by the King, and
originally dated the 20th Nov. 1639. ¾
p.] |
| Dec. 1. |
2. Copy of the same, dated the 20th Nov. [¾
p.] |
| Dec. 1. |
3. The Council to the Sheriffs of the several counties of England
and Wales. Letter of instruction sent with the writs for shipmoney. [Copy. 12 pp.] |
| Dec. 1. |
4. Similar letter, endorsed as sent "to the sheriff of a county in
England, viz., Cambridgeshire, wherein there is but one town
corporate." [Copy. 8½
pp.] |
| Dec. 1. |
5. The like to the sheriff of a county "wherein are but two
corporations." [Copy. 8 pp.] |
| Dec. 1. |
6. The like to the Earl of Cumberland, sheriff of co. Westmorland.
[Copy. 8½
pp.] |
| [Dec. 1.] |
7. The like to the sheriff of co. Denbigh. [Copy. 2¾
pp.] |
| Dec. 1. |
8. Notes for entering the minutes of letters sent with the writs
for ship-money to the several counties and corporate boroughs in
the Council Register. [4½
pp.] |
Dec. 1.
York. |
9. Henry Rosse to Sir Henry Vane. According to your letters
to Mr. Conyers, and a letter from me to him, he repaired with your
money to York, where I shewed him the estate I had in those
collieries, which was a lease in being for 77 years, the fee-farm in
my son, Timothy Rosse, an upholster[er] in Cornwell [Cornhill ?]
only in trust because he was there to seal the counterparts to the
feoffees, your moneys being stayed till we know your pleasure. I
have a brother-in-law, one Mr. Harebred, who will be daily at
Mr. Shalcrosse's, a skinner's shop betwixt the Temple gates, to
whom I have written. He will attend any you appoint to go to
my son, whereby you may be fully satisfied in this business, and
then there will be nothing wanting in me that may accomplish
your pleasure. [½
p.] |
| Dec. 1. |
10. William Bassett, late sheriff of Somerset, to Nicholas. I
have sent this to give you an account of such moneys as are yet
in arrear for ship-money payable by writs issued in 1636, and not
transcribed out of Sir Wm. Russell's books of receipt into your note
for the Council board. The statement is summed up in Nicholas's
endorsement as follows: "There will remain only in arrear to be
collected 52l., whereof Edward Phillips is to pay 7l. 6s. 8d." [Seal
with arms. 1 p.] |
Dec. 1.
Office of
Ordnance. |
11. Account by the Officers of the Ordnance concerning gunpowder. It details the totals in store at the Tower and Portsmouth,
the amounts withdrawn for his Majesty's service, and the quantities
sold to chandlers from 1st Nov. to this day. [2 pp.] Annexed, |
|
11. I. Similar account, 1st July to 1st Aug. [2 pp.] |
|
11. II. Ditto, 1st Aug. to 1st Sept. [2 pp.] |
|
11. III. Ditto, 1st Sept. to 1st Oct. [2 pp.] |
|
11. IV. Ditto, 1st Oct. to 1st Nov. [2 pp.] |
Dec. 2.
Clerkenwell. |
12. William Earl of Newcastle to Sec. Windebank. I understand that Sir John Brook stands engaged in divers great sums for
Sir Philiberto Vernatti, and that Sir Philiberto intends to make
trial to procure a royal protection for himself, leaving his surety
to the mercy of his creditors; which seems to me an intention of so
much injustice, that I cannot refuse Sir John to move you on his
behalf, whose petiton is that if Sir Philiberto shall proceed in that
way to his prejudice, you will be pleased to make stay of those
proceedings, which will add one more to the number of your favours
to me. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] |
Dec. 2.
London House. |
13. Order of the Commissioners for Recusancy. Upon complaint
of divers recusants against the under-sheriffs, deputies, or agents
to Sir Edward Stanley, late sheriff of co. Lancaster, for exacting
extraordinary sums from them upon taking of bonds according to
the directions and order of 12 July last from the Commissioners for
the southern parts, touching passing of grants and leases at a
certain time therein prefixed, the said Commissioners, do order that
the under-sheriffs, deputies, and agents in co. Lancaster, and all
other the like officers within the northern counties, at their peril,
upon notice of this order, shall make restitution and repayment of
all such sums to the parties from whom they received the same; and
in case of refusal, then, upon complaint thereof made to his Majesty's
Commissioners for the northern parts, such further course to be
taken therein as the said Commissioners shall think fit. Further the
said under-sheriffs, deputies, and agents, and all sheriffs in the
northern counties, shall deliver all recusants' bonds taken by them
to the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer, with whom the same are
to remain without prejudice to the said recusants, and no process
to be issued forth thereupon. And to the intent that his Majesty's
revenues arising by recusants may be kept in a constant and
regular way, it is further ordered, that all such recusants in the
southern parts as have compounded shall at their perils pass their
grants and leases before the end of Trinity term next, which
further time is given to them in favour, any further order to the
contrary notwithstanding. And such recusants as shall hereafter
compound shall pass their leases and grants in three months for
the southern parts, and six months for the northern parts, after
their compositions. Further, upon the showing of their letters
patents under the great seal of their several leases and grants
to the Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer, the bonds shall be redelivered to the said several recusants respectively, or to such
other persons as they shall appoint to receive the same, without
payment of fee therefor. [Copy. 1¾
pp.] |
Dec. 2.
London House. |
14. Order of the Commissioners for Recusancy. Upon the
request of the recusants, as well within the northern as southern
counties, who have or shall compound for their estates, touching
the [passing] of their grants and leases under the great seal, the
Commissioners thought it reasonable, in regard of the extraordinary
charge of passing the same, that so many particulars of lands
as shall not exceed in all the yearly value of 30l. may pass and
be joined in one lease, paying but one single fee. Also that so
many particulars for personal estates as shall not exceed the yearly
rent of 60l. may likewise pass, and be joined in one grant, if so
desired, paying but one single fee as aforesaid; yet nevertheless the
Commissioners recommend the settlement thereof to the Lord
Keeper. [Copy. ¾
p.] |
Dec. 2.
Hereford. |
15. Thomas Alderne to Sec. Windebank. Fearing lest your
intention in the prosecution of this business [of ship-money] might
receive prejudice by reason of the late coming of your letter, which
was not delivered to me, I thought fit in duty to signify so much
to your Honour, before the 30th November last, and to return your
letter; it being intended, as I conceive, for the late sheriff's further
direction in that behalf, myself being but lately sworn for the
execution of that office. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
16. "The Remonstrance and Supplication of the Noblemen and
Commissioners of shires and boroughs, his Majesty's good subjects
of the kingdom of Scotland." addressed to the King. [This
Remonstrance was voted by the Estates, convened for the occasion at
Edinburgh, the 22nd of November this year, and sent by William
Cuningham to be delivered to the King in London. This copy,
which is Anglicized, is endorsed "December 3," probably the date
of the delivery. It will be found printed at full in Balfour's
Annals, ii., pp. 364-366. 2½
pp.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Warrant for payment of 100l. per annum, with arrearages, to
Sir Richard Wynne, for the use of the Queen, out of the moneys
due to his Majesty by the farmers of post fines, or, in default thereof,
out of the Exchequer, being part of the 1,200l. per ann. settled upon
her Majesty in lieu of the greatest part of her Majesty's greenwax,
and was to have been paid by Sir William Brouncker out of the
issues of jurors, but which source of revenue now proves slow and
uncertain. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Warrant for payment of 500l. to Sir Francis Willoughby, to be
by him disbursed in repairing the castle and citadel of Carlisle.
[Docquet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Warrant to pay to Francois Garnier, for the use of her daughter
Fancois Civet and her children, as well the arrears of a pension of
300l. per annum granted by his Majesty in the fourth year of his
reign, to Pierre Civet and Francois his wife, during their lives, as
also such moneys as shall hereafter grow due upon that pension.
[Docquet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Warrant to Sir James Palmer, governor of his Majesty's works,
for making hangings at Mortlake, to sell to the Earl of Holland five
pieces of hangings of the story of the Apostles, being of the second
sort, for 886l. 17s. 6d., the price his Majesty allowed for the same.
The said sum to be employed towards making of other hangings,
buying patterns for his Majesty's service, and for necessary repairs
of the factory at Mortlake. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Petition of Edward Seymour to the King. Upon inquisition
taken by the sheriff of co. Wilts, it is certified to be no prejudice
to your Majesty or any others, if you should be pleased to grant
to petitioner and his heirs to hold a market on Friday weekly, at
the town of Maiden Bradley, in lieu of a market there anciently
held on Monday; and also a fair yearly on St. Mark's Day there,
with the tolls and profits thereof. Petitioner, by grant from your
royal predecessors, has sundry liberties and privileges within the
manor and parish of Maiden Bradley, which he and his antecessors
have long enjoyed, as by several charters under the Great Seal may
appear. Prays your Majesty to grant to him and his heirs the said
market and fair, with the tolls and profits thereof, and to grant and
confirm the said liberties, franchises, and privileges. Underwritten:
Reference to the Attorney General, who is to consider of the
petitioner's ancient privileges mentioned in this petition, and also
of the fair and market, and to certify his Majesty his opinion of
the whole business; whereupon he will signify his further pleasure. Whitehall, 3rd Dec. 1639. [Copy. See Book of Petitions,
Vol. cccciii. p. 125. 2/3
p.] |
Dec. 3.
Sundon. |
17. John Viscount Savage to Sir John Heydon. I presume to
importune you on behalf of Thomas Cheshire, a servant of mine,
concerning the minister's place for Trinity Minories, now vacant,
and at your disposal. What favour you shall show him therein,
I shall acknowledge as done to myself, and be obliged to requite it
in the like or any other way. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
18. Sir Edward Savage to Sir John Heydon. Mr. Cheshire, the
bearer hereof, was of Brazenose College in my time, and was held
to be a very good scholar. Since that time he has approved himself
an honest man, and painful in his vocation, and no doubt worthy
of your favour, to whose nobleness I commend him, and leave him
to your disposal. [Seal with crest. 1 p.] |
Dec. 3/13.
Dunkirk. |
19. Judges of the Admiralty of Dunkirk to [Sir John Pennington].
In answer to your letter of the 28 Nov., touching two Scotch barks
bound for Havre de Grâce under English convoy, we are unable to
make order upon the pretended restitution, without his Highness'
resolution, upon receipt of which we will not fail to despatch the
business. [French. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 3/13. |
20. English translation of the above. [½
p.] |
Dec. 3.
Whitehall. |
21. Order of the Commissioners for Depopulations. That the
Attorney General should forthwith exhibit an information into the
Court of Star Chamber against Alderman Soame, for his offences
in depopulation and conversion of lands [from tillage] in Carltonin-Lindrick, co. Nottingham, and the continuance of the same.
Sergeant Boone and the rest of the Sub-committee for Depopulations
are to attend Mr. Attorney, with such instructions as shall be
requisite for preparing of the information, and to see the same prosecuted with effect. [¾
p.] |
Dec. 3.
Whitehall. |
22. Certificate of Sir Dudley Carlton. Having made search in
the register book of Council causes, about an appeal made by
Clement Chevalier from a sentence given against him, the 17th Aug.
last, by the Lieutenant, Bayliffe and jurats of the Isle of Jersey, in
favour of John Nicolls, attorney there, I cannot find any such
appeal, or ought else concerning Nicolls or his attorney, entered
in the register. [½
p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
23. Officers of the Ordnance to the Council. In answer to your
order of the 26th November, we find that a musket of three feet
and a half, weighing 10 lbs. and a quarter, or 11 lbs., is most useful
for field service; and to hinder the recoiling we find no way but an
abatement of the charge, which formerly was two thirds of the
weight of the bullet, which we find to be too rude to take aim or
be useful. The half weight of the bullet, which is half an ounce, a
drachm, and a scruple, will be serviceable. The half ounce, abating
the former fraction, will be yet more serviceable in the ease of the
musketeer, and will do as much execution. Head pieces for
musketeers are graceful in a parade, and may sometimes be useful,
but the many inconveniences that accompany them induce us to
reject them. [1¾
p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
24. Copy of the same. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
25. Another copy, with an underwritten note touching bullets.
[1 p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
26. Account of what proportion of arms certain artificers undertake
to make and bring into his Majesty's stores monthly, and at what
rates, according to the several certificates under their hands, [see
Nov. 30,] presented and read this day to the Lords. Totals, 1,200
muskets, 200 carbines, 120 pistols, 1,500 bandoleers first month,
and 2,000 each month following, 400 long pikes, 500 musket rests,
1,000 swords, 4,000 girdles, hangers, and belts, 100 tons of English
match in 12 months, 50 or 60 tons of Flemish match, and 100
saddles. [2½
pp.] |
| [Dec. 3?] |
27. Account of the charge for waggons, tumbrels, trace and
harness for the train of the 24 pieces not contained in the grand
proportion. Total, 723l. 6s. 8d. [½
p.] |
| Dec. 4. |
28. Note of matters submitted to the Council, chiefly relating to
the provision and manufacture of arms. [2/3
p.] |
Dec. 4.
Berwick. |
29. Sir Michael Ernly to Sec. Windebank. The 2nd December
we had order for the payment of this garrison at the rate the King
was pleased to pay the army, which was very welcome to all the
officers; but I much wonder that any order which concerns the
whole garrison should be directed only to Mr. Payler, our paymaster,
without giving me any notice of it in the absence of the Lord
Governor. I hear there will be commissioners appointed from
Scotland, if the King please to give leave; if not, they brag they
will dispose of business in the parliament as they shall think fit.
I will never fail in the performance of what you have commanded
me heretofore, or what I shall receive from you hereafter. [Seal
with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 4. |
30. List of letters sent with the ship-money writs to the sheriffs
of counties, to the Lord Mayor of London, the mayor of Bristol, and
the Earl of Suffolk, lord warden of the Cinque Ports, in all 55 letters,
with an underwritten receipt for the same by William Nicoll, clerk
of the cheque. [4/5
p.] |
| Dec. 5. |
Petition of Richard Neville, your Majesty's servant, to the King.
Petitioner about five years since became a suitor for a grant of such
land at the rent of 12d. per acre as he by his prosecution should
recover for your Majesty in certain wastes or commons of Uxator
[Uttoxeter?] ward, one of the wards of the Chase of Needwood, in
co. Stafford, and of other lands parcel of and adjoining to Colebrook
ward, one of the wards of Duffield Forest or Chase, in co. Derby,
your Majesty's right to them being concealed and almost lost, and
your Majesty was pleased to signify your pleasure to Lord Newburgh, Chancellor of the Duchy [of Lancaster], for the granting of
the same to petitioner. Petitioner has ever since prosecuted this
service and recovered the land, but with very great costs of suit and
extraordinary charges of settling and enclosing of the same, wherein
by many riots and disorders he does yet daily receive much damage
and many interruptions. The greater part of this land proves to
be so barren, that at the rent of 12d. per acre petitioner's five years'
labour and expenses in prosecuting this service, and the intention
of your gracious bounty to him, will not be satisfied. In regard
that the rent of these lands will be a new addition to your revenue,
recovered solely at petitioner's charge, prays that your Majesty
will refer the consideration thereof to the Chancellor of the Duchy
to settle a reasonable and moderate abatement of rent. Underwritten, |
|
i. Reference as prayed to Lord Newburgh, Chancellor of the Duchy
of Lancaster, who is to order this business as he shall
find fit. Whitehall, 5th Dec. 1639. [Copy. See Book of
Petitions, Vol. cccciii., p. 123. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 5. |
Petition of John Drinkwater, Henry Seston, and others the
kindred of William Man, late of Westminster, deceased, to the King.
That William Man, aged about 80 years, died possessed of an estate
of 16,000l., and during his last illness was very weak in sense and
memory. John Ingham (Man's kinsman and household servant),
taking advantage thereby, procured a scrivener's man to draw a
will, by which Man left Ingham his sole executor, who immediately
upon the death got possession of the whole estate, but the following
day fell mad, and so continued about 7 days, and then died.
Shortly after, Ingham's wife, Dorothy, also died, leaving two small
children, and William Antrobus, a mercer, as her executor, who thus
obtained possession of the estate, the greatest part of which
consists of college leases, which upon pain of forfeiture should have
been renewed long since, and to that end the Dean and Chapter
of Westminster have often called before them Antrobus, and required him to renew the leases in the children's names according
to a sentence of the Court of Delegates, but he contemptuously
refuses unless the leases may be renewed in his own name, intending
thereby to defraud the orphans and convert the estate to his private
use; thus frustrating petitioners' expectations in the event of the
decease of the said children during their minority. Pray his Majesty
to refer the hearing of the premises to such worthy personages as
he shall think fit. Underwritten, |
|
I. Reference to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Lord Keeper,
Lord Cottington, and Mr. Comptroller, who are to hear
and determine the differences in such manner as they
shall find fit for relief of petitioners. [Copy. See Book
of Petitions, Vol. cccciii., p. 124. 1⅓
p.] |
Dec. 5.
Queen Street. |
31. Thomas Smith to Sir John Pennington. You have so overcome me with your bounty, expressed in yours of the 2nd inst.,
that you leave me altogether destitute of condign gratitude, the
sum being as much beyond my expression as desert, for though the
gratuity from my Lord might seem (and that by your voluntary
favour too) to direct you to some retribution, yet the other addition
was altogether unexpected, I having done nothing for you, but
what the duty of my place and the power of yours might have
exacted from me. But, howsoever, what my ability prohibits me to
deserve, my desires shall compel me to endeavour to requite upon
all occasions within my power conducing to your service, though
I must confess I have not been so successful as I could wish in that
which I conceive you have reason to lament; but speramus meliora
for the future, great persons must be tenderly dealt withal. The
enclosed were delivered to me by Capt. Carteret and Mr. Quoytemor. Capt. Carteret's patent is now being drawn to execute the
Comptroller's place. Sir Henry Palmer and he are agreed.
Sir Henry has all the profit during his life, and Carteret after him.
[1 p.] |
Dec. 5.
Queen Street. |
32. Thomas Smith to Sir John Pennington. The Lord High
Admiral having been very earnestly entreated by Jeremy Heron,
one of his Majesty's servants, for the release of Nathaniel Knight, a
seaman in your ship, desires you to discharge him. [Seal with
arms. ¾
p.] |
Dec. 5.
Sydenham. |
33. Thomas Wise, late sheriff of Devon, to Nicholas. By a letter
from the Council of the 20th Oct. I was required either to make
payment of the arrears of ship-money for 1637 by the 24th Nov.
last, or else to attend the Lords at that time, the non-payment of
which was, as I conceive, occasioned by the remissness of the head
and petty constables in not executing the warrants which I procured from the late sheriff. If I may have another letter from
the Lords directed to the present sheriff, to lend me his assistance,
I shall not any longer rely upon the fair promises of the constables,
who have delayed this service, in which letter, if it may be granted,
I desire that there may be an expression how those who are now in
arrearages, distrained or otherwise proceeded against according to
the writ, may pay charges to officers collecting or executing the
several warrants, the omission of which in the last letter has proved,
as I believe, a great hindrance to this employment, and which, as
I since understand by John Watts, had been in the former letter
inserted, had it been then desired. It is also prayed that, as in the
former, there may be order given for signing such rates as shall be
by me tendered, whereby I may the better be enabled speedily to
give satisfaction. If my attendance on the Lords may not be
excused, I shall not fail upon the least notice from you to hasten to
London. My friend and kinsman George Buller is desired to
deliver this, and from time to time to speed any letters unto me.
Endorsed by Nicholas, "This [the warrant] was sent." [1 p.]
Enclosed, |
|
33. I. Account by Thomas Wise of ship-money payable by writs
issued in 1637. The hundreds, names of persons, and
amount assessed upon each are fully detailed. Nicholas
has endorsed it, "Arrears: The Countess of Bath, 4l.;
the present sheriff, Sir John Pole, 4l. 2s.; Sir Popham
Southcote, 1l.; Lady Drake, in several places, 6l. 2s.
Capt. Rawleigh Gilbert, 2l. 2s." [35 pp.] |
| [Dec. 5?] |
34. [Thomas Windebank to his father, Sec. Windebank.] Since
my departure from London I have written only one letter to you
of the 24th Nov., in which I gave you an account of my embarking
that night in the Downs, but was unable, by reason of my extreme
indisposition and disorder at sea, to set my hand to paper to
advertise you of my landing. The weather, howsoever promising
fair when I embarked, suddenly changed to extreme foul, so that
I shall never again expect it constant, but to my persecution. I
was 15 hours in my passage between the Downs and Boulogne, and
in very great danger afterwards at my landing, for the King's ship
not venturing to come within three leagues of the shore, by reason
of the foul weather, a shallop came to fetch us off, and the storm
increased so fast, that our boat was continually half full of water,
notwithstanding every one was busied in baling it forth. I had
not much amends made me by land, the weather being very wet
and cold, but I thank God I am at last safely, and in very good
health, arrived this night at Paris, from whence, notwithstanding
I am infinitely wearied with my journey, I would not omit presenting my duty to you, my Lord Ambassador, whose hands I had
the honour to kiss even now, giving me notice of the post's departing from hence to-morrow. I have delivered to his Lordship such
letters as were put into my hands for him, but by reason of my
weariness have as yet entered into little discourse with him
touching my employment. When I shall have a further conference
with his Lordship, I shall punctually observe those instructions you
favoured me with at my departure. I have desired his Lordship to
give me leave to repose myself a day or two before audience be
demanded, which he condescends to; he has honoured me with a
very noble reception, and I hope will continue his favour to me.
My duty to my mother, with my best affection to my sister and
brother. I most humbly desire your blessing. [Draft. 1¾
p.] |
| Dec. 5. |
35. [Warrant] to Lord Chief Justice Bramston. There has been
lately in some of the circuits of this kingdom indictments against
ministers for refusing to administer the communion to such as will
not come up to the rails to receive the same. It is his Majesty's
pleasure that your Lordship, calling to you the rest of the judges,
your brethren, advise with them, whether the refusal by a minister
to administer the communion to such as will not come up to the
rails set up in the chancels of churches by the communion table be an
offence against any statute law, and to return your answers with
all convenient speed. [Draft. ½
p.] |
Dec. 5.
Denmark House. |
36. Order made before the Queen's Council in a suit between
Robert Huett, plaintiff, and William Manfield and others, defendants. That an injunction be awarded to restrain the defendants,
and the rest of the tenants, freeholders and copyholders, within the
Queen's honour and manor of Ampthill from going to several mills
to grind their corn, and to require them to bring the same to her
Majesty's customary mill, of which the plaintiff is farmer, until such
time as they shall directly answer the plaintiff's bill, and this court
shall take other order to the contrary. [Certified copy. 2 pp.] |
| [Dec. 6.] |
37. The King to certain Lords of the Council who were absent
on the occasion of voting the loan. The disorders in Scotland still
continuing, and the Lords of the Council having been made
acquainted by the Earl of Traquair, our commissioner, with the
high and insolent carriage and demands of our rebellious subjects
there, have unanimously advised us to reduce them to obedience by
force, rather than to give way to their demands, so prejudicial
to us in honour and safety. But because this is a public business
and of great weight, and not to be undertaken but upon the public
charge, we have made known to our Council our own desire to
meet our people, and to demand their assistance in the ancient and
ordinary way of a Parliament, which our Council unanimously
approving, we have already declared that a parliament shall be
called together to meet in April next. In the meantime, because
it concerns us highly, and the safety of our kingdoms, that timely
preparations be made for this great action, which cannot suffer the
least delay, but requires a quick and vigorous supply of moneys for
the present raising of forces, as well to secure us, as to make us the
more able to enter into that action, and, by God's assistance, to
overcome the difficulties of it, we have proposed to our said Council
the present furnishing us with 300,000l. by way of loan, to be
repaid, together with the interest, within two years next ensuing,
for which we have given security by assignments out of our own
revenues, which are very good and sure. Our Council therefore
being fully satisfied with the said security and assignments, have
every one of them severally declared unto us what sums they will
bring in for this service. But yourself having not been present at
these consultations, we have thought fit to make them known to
you, that you being one of that body, and equally interested
with them in the safety and preservation of our person, honour, and
state, may join with them in this exigence to supply us with a considerable sum by way of loan, upon the like security and conditions
of repayment as they have done, wherein we expect your present
answer and conformity, according to the necessity and importance
of this great service. [Signed, but undated. 1½
p.] |
| Dec. [6]. |
38. Draft of the same in Sec. Windebank's handwriting. [1½
p.] |
| Dec. 6. |
39. Bishop Potter, of Carlisle, to Sec. Windebank. As soon as I
could receive an answer from the dean, I come to give you account
of my care to see his Majesty's royal and religious commands
performed, for the repairing of the cathedral church of Carlisle. As
soon as I received your letter, I sent for the prebends,—we have but
four in all,—and acquainted them with his Majesty's pleasure,
making it plain to them, that if the reparation of the church
should rest upon the remainder of the rents, when all other duties
and officers' [fees] were discharged, there could nothing be done
to any purpose in many years. Indeed the rents in divers years
come short to discharge all claims, and therefore I entreated that
out of the fines which they had received the last year, averaging
almost 300l. to every prebend, and above 700l. to the dean, they
would give something. Three of the prebends who were present
promised 50l. apiece, if the dean would pay in proportion his part,
which they rated to 200l. Hereupon I wrote to the dean and
acquainted him with the prebends' offer. His answer to me was,
that he conceived the meaning of his Majesty's letter to be, that the
reparations of the church should rise only out of the rents and
not from the fines, yet he would be content to give 100l. towards
the present reparations. This will not please the prebends, because,
they say, it is but a small proportion for the dean, the prebends
having barely 20l. a year and the dean 120l. As for the fines, the
dean has a third part, and the four prebends have the rest, and
therefore the prebends fall back from their promise of 50l., unless
the dean will pay in his proportion. Yet order is taken for providing some materials against the spring, but if the charge be
laid only upon the rents little will be done, and if there be not
something yearly reserved out of the fines, I am not like to live to
see the church sufficiently repaired. As occasion shall serve, I shall
be careful to give his Majesty a true account how his commands are
obeyed. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 6. |
40. Certificate of Thomas Jay. Forasmuch as I have received
much favour at the hands of Sec. Windebank in mediating to the
King's Majesty upon my several petitions and requests, and have
never been able to make any tender of my thankful respects to him
for the same; and for that he is yet again pleased to present my
humble suit to his Majesty touching the registering of seamen's
contracts for their hire and wages, which if I do obtain I desire his
honour to admit me to bring unto him an account of the whole
profits of the registrar's office at the end of the first year, together
with my grant if any be made to me; out of which I do hereby
oblige myself to assign what portion he shall please to nominate
unto whom he shall appoint for such term as the same shall be
granted unto me. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 6. |
41. Certificate of the same, by which he promises to give Robert
Read 100l. during such term as he shall obtain the office mentioned
in the preceding. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 6. |
42. Petition of Sarah Westwood, wife of Robert Westwood,
feltmaker, to Archbishop Laud. Before petitioner's marriage with
Westwood she was the wife of John Davys, also a feltmaker, who
dying left her a house furnished with goods sufficient for her use
and charged with one child and two apprentices, who for the
residue of their terms could by their labours well have achieved
sufficient for the maintenance of themselves and also of petitioner
and her child. Details the lewd courses practised by Westwood and
likewise his cruelty towards her and her child, who go daily in fear
of their lives. Prays his Grace's reference for inquiry into the truth
of her allegations, or otherwise to direct such course that her
husband may be forced to alter his conduct and to allow her
alimony. Underwritten, |
|
42. I. Reference to Sir John Lambe to call before him the parties
complained of, and to accord all differences if he can, or
else take order for Robert Westwood to answer his misdemeanours in the High Commission Court. Dec. 6th,
1639. |
|
42. II. Memorandum signed by Sir John Lambe, appointing to
hear the business on the 11th inst., in the afternoon, in
the dining room of Doctors' Commons, when all parties
concerned are to attend. Dec. 9th, 1639. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 7. |
Grant of the office of constable of the castle of Gloucester to
James Beck, gent., and to his sons Nicholas and Godfrey successively
for their lives. This grant is to take effect upon the death of
Henry Stringer, the younger, yet living, to whom the said office
was granted by his late Majesty, or otherwise whensoever the place
shall become void. [Docquet] |
| Dec. 7. |
Grant of the office of one of the four Tellers of the Receipt of the
Exchequer to Arthur Squibb, the younger, during his life in
reversion upon the determination of the interest of any one of the
four tellers now in being after Lawrence Squibb and Lawrence
Sweetman, gent., who are the two first in reversion of the present
officers, and is, upon surrender of letters patents for the said office,
formerly granted to Robert Reade, gent. [Docquet] |
Dec. 7.
Whitehall. |
43. Philip Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery to Sir John
Pennington. I find by one of your letters lately sent to me with
the inventory that you have been mindful of us, and though the
success answers not our wants, it does our expectation, for we are
persuaded you have done your uttermost, and in that notion we
owe you as much for this skiff as we could have done for the
Admiral of Dunkirk. You see, as we have great reason, our hearty
acknowledgments of your endeavours, which, though they can add
nothing to your propensity in persisting to procure our further
relief, will certainly stand in bar against our ingratitude. [¾
p.] |
| Dec. 7. |
44. Petition of Luke Skippon, clerk, to Archbishop Laud.
Richard Downe, D.D., at his final sentence in the High Commission
was ordered, amongst other things, to make a public submission
in the parish church of Marwood, Devon, as touching his nonconformity practised and his erroneous doctrine delivered in the said
church. And whereas Richard Downe now endeavours, contrary
to the order aforesaid, to procure that his submission may be
performed before the Bishop of Exeter in some other place, petitioner prays his Grace to enjoin the registrars of the said court that
they give out no submission to be performed by Dr. Downe elsewhere than in Marwood church, and that it may be performed in
the time of divine service on some Sunday or holyday, also that the
submission be drawn in a complete form by direction of one of the
Commissioners whom his Grace may think fit. Underwritten, |
|
44. I. Reference to Sir John Lambe to take care of the petitioner
so far forth as it may stand with the justice and honour
of the court. Dec. 7th, 1639. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 7. |
45. Minute of the appearance of Robert Jason this day before
the Council. He is to remain in custody of a messenger until
discharged. [4 lines.] |
| Dec. 7. |
46. Account of Sir William Russell of ship-money for 1637.
Total received, 176,789l. 4s. 8d.; remaining, 19,625l. 3s. 0d. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 7. |
47. Similar account for 1638. Total received, 51,735l. 14s. 11d.;
remaining, 18,014l. 5s. 1d. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 7. |
48. Account of ship-money for 1638, levied and remaining in
the hands of the sheriffs. Total, 1,811l., which makes the total
levied and paid in all 53,546l. The arrears were as follows: for
1635, 4,536l.; 1636, 7,049l.; 1637, 19,105l.; 1638, 18,014l. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 8. |
49. Petition of William Williams, merchant, to the Council. It
has pleased God to send a great plenty of corn in England, and
especially in Sussex, so that wheat is there only 24s. a quarter, and
other grain equally cheap. In times of plenty and cheapness his
Majesty's subjects have formerly had leave granted to them to
transport some small quantities thereof. Prays warrant to transport
from London and Newhaven 300 quarters of wheat, and 50 quarters
of beans and the same of peas to the Canary Islands. Underwritten, |
|
49. i. Reference to the Justices of Peace for Middlesex and
Sussex, to certify the present prices of the above-mentioned
sorts of grain, whereupon the Lords will give further
order. Whitehall, 8th December 1639. [1 p.] Endorsed, |
|
49. II. Certificate signed by Thomas Parker and Edward Burton,
two justices of peace for Sussex. The common price of
wheat near Newhaven is 24s. a quarter, and the best peas
20s. a quarter or thereabouts. Dec. 16th, 1639. [6 lines.] |
| Dec. 8. |
50. Petition of Edward Bond, brewer, to the Council. By a
former petition Bond showed his obedience to the Lords' orders, and
how that Birket, a coppersmith, detains a copper worth 300l., to petitioner's great damage. By order of the 4th inst. the Lords directed
that Birket should, upon his peril and without further delay,
deliver to petitioner his brewing vessels, or show good cause for
detaining the same. Birket being served with the said order, sent
petitioner word he would not deliver the same; neither has he
attended the Board, as he was ordered, to show cause. Prays that
Birket may be sent for to answer his contempt, and such order
taken as to the Lords shall seem meet. Underwritten, |
|
50. i. The Lords have had satisfaction given them for the nonappearance of Birkhead [Birket,] by reason of his sickness and infirmity, and do find that George Humble,
stationer, is chiefly concerned in this complaint of the
petitioner. Ordered that Sir Edward Littleton, his
Majesty's Attorney General, shall take into consideration
this difference, and, having regard to the former orders
of the Board, settle such end between the parties as may
best stand with equity and good conscience. Whitehall,
8th Dec. 1639. [1 p.] |
Dec. 8.
Burderop. |
51. Sir William Calley to Richard Harvey. I have sent you by
the bearer Smith, the waggoner, a basket wherein are six collars of
brawn and two doz. of hogs' puddings, half white and half black,
which are for your master and mistress [Mr. and Mrs. Endymion
Porter], to whom deliver as from my wife. Tell your master I do
not write that I may not trouble him to answer. Complains of
Mr. Morse's return to Burderop without bringing an answer to the
writer's letter to Harvey. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 9. |
The King to Thomas Viscount Wentworth, Lord Deputy of
Ireland. We require you upon settling the conveyances from the trustees of the Countess of Carlisle to his Majesty of the yearly rent of
1,000l. half-yearly out of the customs, subsidies, and imposts of wines
there, during the term of years unexpired, to cause 8,000l. to be paid
to her or her trustees out of such treasure as you shall think
fit; the said 8,000l. being part of 16,000l., whereof 8,000l. has
already been issued, heretofore agreed to be paid to her by his
Majesty upon her surrender of the said term of years unexpired,
which surrender, being as yet not enrolled, is now to be redelivered
to be cancelled by the Countess. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 9. |
Grant of a protection to Sir Walter Roberts for one year.
[Docquet] |
| Dec. 9. |
52. Sir Richard Harison to Sec. Windebank. I am very glad
to see the good news of a parliament confirmed by your letter, of
which I heard only a flying report before. Whensoever it is, I shall
pray God to send such a blessing upon the same as may bring
happiness both to the King and commonwealth. The rumour
thereof is not yet so spread over the shire as that I can give you
account who are like to appear as competitors in the business you
write of. I shall shortly hear which way the country inclines, and
accordingly give you such timely advertisement as I may. I wish
nothing more than that I were able to satisfy your desire in joining
with you, but my excuse is too justly known, for having parted
with my means to my children, I am incapable of these public
employments, and therefore must crave your pardon therein.
Whatsoever is in my power you shall freely command me, and my
care shall be truly to serve you with my best advice whether I
conceive it fit for you to appear in the business without assurance
of good success. My service and my wife's to you and your lady.
[1 p.] |
Dec. 9.
Whitehall. |
Henry Earl of Holland to the officers of his Majesty's forest of
Whittlewood, co. Northampton. I have been certified by Thomas
Beale, lieutenant of the said forest, and Thomas Watson, steward of
the same, that there is a certain wood of Sir Charles Shirley's, his
Majesty's ward, called Peest Hay, containing about fourscore acres
of underwood, lying in the parish of Wappenham within Whittlewood forest, and that the same being of 12 years' growth is very fit
to be cut at this season, the county also standing in great need
thereof. At the request of the Earl of Essex, who is of the committee
of the said ward, we hereby license him to fell and enclose this
present season the underwoods aforementioned, so that they be
sufficiently mounded, fenced, and hedged, and kept according to the
assize of the forests, for nine years after the date hereof, provided
he leave sufficient trees for standels according to statute. [Copy.
See Vol. ccclxxxiv., p. 66, 1⅓
p] |
| Dec. 9. |
53. Account of receipts and disbursements for affairs of the Fens.
Total receipts, 1,069l. 17s. 8d.; disbursements, 1,054l. 12s. 8d. |
Dec. 10.
Whitehall. |
54. The King to the Lord Treasurer Juxon and Philip Earl of
Pembroke and Montgomery, Lord Chamberlain of the Household, and
Francis Lord Cottington, Under Treasurer of the Exchequer. In the
tenth year of our reign we, with the advice of our Council, established
several good orders for the well regulating of the offices of our Robes
and Wardrobes, and having noticed that these orders have not been
duly observed by some of our office and others according to our
commandment, we therefore hereby signify our pleasure that the said
orders be henceforth duly observed. And to the end that the same
may be accordingly performed, we require you to take care that
the transcript of this letter, with the orders thereto annexed, be set
up in some public places in those offices, that so all our officers,
and all such tradesmen as have relation to our said offices, may not
pretend ignorance of their duties in this behalf, but carefully
endeavour to accomplish our will herein, as they will answer the
contrary at their perils. Annexed, |
|
54. I. Orders for the Wardrobes; set out in 11 Articles. The
second Article provides that all wardrobe stuff for the
King's children, ambassadors, &c., be provided from the
Great Wardrobe on warrant from the King or Lord
Chamberlain of the Household, to be granted on a bill of
particulars signed by the clerk of the Wardrobes and
by the officer requiring such provisions. [Copies. 7¾
pp.] |
| Dec. 10. |
55. Another copy of the preceding letter and orders. [7½
pp] |
| Dec. 10. |
56. The King to Patrick Lord Ettrick. By your two letters of
the 19th and 25th Nov., you have given us account as well of the
state of our castle at Edinburgh, and what is wanting for the
necessary defence and preservation thereof, as of your care and
resolution to keep it for us with the hazard of your life. For the
former, as we shall be careful to cause you to be furnished with all
things fit for that important service, so you must be confident we
will not be wanting to take the other very nearly into our consideration for your advantage, and to value your fidelity as it
deserves, especially at this time of so general a disobedience there.
Concerning the particulars of your two letters, we have already in
part instructed our Commissioner to acquaint you with our pleasure
therein. Nevertheless, that you may have a more full understanding
of our intentions, you are further to know that whereas in the
first of these letters you seem to apprehend the want of water
in the castle, and that we understand there are two wells there,
one of which is not yet fully digged or fitted for use, our pleasure
is that you take present order for the digging of that well, and
for the making it serviceable; and besides, you shall do well to
cause conserves for rain-water to be made in places most convenient.
For munition, we will take order you shall be supplied with those
quantities which you desire, namely, with three lasts of powder,
three fats of match, demi-culverin, sacker, minion, falcon and
falconet shot, of each one ton, and besides we think fit to send you
50 pikes. That which you have proposed for the conveying of
these provisions to Leith has been taken into consideration, but it
is rather advised that when this ammunition shall be arrived at
Leith it shall be conveyed into the castle openly and avowedly by
little quantities, which it is presumed may be as easily done, as you
are now able to force those of Edinburgh to supply you with
victuals or other necessaries. For the hundred soldiers which you
desire, we are of opinion that such a number will be too little, and
that you will do better to take 300, but you shall do well to advise
and let us know whether you would have them English or Scots.
If English, you must then consider how they may be safely conveyed into the castle, which we think may be ordered by an
intelligence between yourself and the governor of Berwick, or if not
by this means, then we expect you shall propose some other. If
Scots, you must be sure to make choice of such as you may trust,
and who will be faithful to our service, but these we doubt will
hardly be found in these times. The sign which you desire to be
used by the ship that shall come to Leith, by shooting off pieces of
ordnance, whereby you may take notice within how many weeks
you may expect relief in case of distress, shall be observed. That
which you advise in your other letter concerning the building of
the outmost works conformable to the works pricked both within
and without the spur in your draught we like very well, and we
leave the ordering of this and of the other works there mentioned
in your letter wholly to your direction. But you must take special
care that while these new works are in hand the old may be secured,
and that between both you run not hazard of a surprisal, those of
the town being vigilant to take all occasions of advantage. We
doubt not of the continuance of your care and affections in this great
service, which you shall find we will not forget. We shall not
forget to cause you to be supplied and furnished in due time with
such sums of money as shall be necessary for this service. [Draft
by Sec. Windebank. 2½
pp.] |
Dec. 10.
Hindon. |
57. John Swift and thirty-four other inhabitants of the borough
of Hindon, Wilts, to "your Lordship." Having received notice by
some of our neighbours that the King has declared his intention to
summon a parliament to treat of the urgent occasions of this
kingdom, and we having no persons inhabiting our borough fit to
discharge the offices of burgesses for our town of Hindon, we desire
you to nominate two such persons as you shall think fit, and we
shall most willingly choose them, when we shall receive direction
from the sheriff to proceed to an election. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 10. |
58. Petition of William Crane, clerk, to Archbishop Laud. Being
curate of St. Peter's, Irthlingborough, co. Northampton, petitioner
and George Draughton were questioned by Thomas Infield in the
High Commission Court for a disturbance in the parish church,
for which by order of that Court petitioner was suspended from his
ministerial function. Is a very poor man, with wife and eight
children, having no other means but his curacy for his and their
maintenance. Prays his Grace to release him from his suspension.
Underwritten, |
|
58. I. Reference to Sir John Lambe and Dr. Heath to consider
of this petition, and give the Archbishop an account that
further order may be taken. Dec, 10th, 1639. [1 p.] |
Dec. 10.
Berwick. |
59. Sir Michael Ernly to Sec. Windebank. I am this day informed out of Scotland that the commander of artillery under
Col. Hamilton has been here at Berwick, and, disguised in the habit
of a country marketman, has taken an exact view of the works,
walls, guards, and cannon, and has made his report accordingly.
I am besides informed that if the King's answer does not give the
Scots full satisfaction they will endeavour by all possible means
the gaining of this town. The number of men here is not many to
defend so large a place upon such an occasion, but I doubt not
they will prove sufficient to resist any force the Scots can bring
upon the sudden. If they have any intention here it must be by
treachery, for I cannot distinguish the loyal subjects from the
rebels, they are so neatly mingled. I thought good to acquaint
you of what I am informed, and leave it to your consideration. I
will not fail in all care and diligence on my part, according to the
instructions I have always received from you. [Endorsed by
Windebank, "Answered 25, by Capt. Gifford. I have written
again by post 26." 1 p.] |
Dec. 10.
Edinburgh. |
60. Francis Steuart to Justice Shipart [Shepherd], Lincoln's Inn
Fields, London. Apologizes for not writing. Fears he will not
see Shepherd before the rising of "our" session. Here are the
beginnings of the inevitable danger of the fearfullest days that ever
Britain did see. God of his great mercy avert his deserved wrath
from us, and grant our gracious King a sanctified and wise heart,
that he may have grace truly to discern his faithful servants from
the subverters of his Crown, verbum sapienti sat est, I dare say
no more, let this rest with yourself. [1½
pp.] |
| Dec. 10. |
61. Indenture of bargain and sale between Endymion Porter, of
St. Martin's-in-the-Fields, London, of the one part, and Edmund
Cripps, of Wandsworth, brewer, and John Blake, of Wandsworth,
husbandman, of the other part, by which the latter become purchasers of all wood except timber trees growing upon the ground
called Burnt Wood, Wandsworth, with power to remove the same
within two years from Michaelmas last, at 3l. 4s. 0d per acre.
[Signed by Cripps and Blake. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Grant of the office of comptroller of his Majesty's ships to
Sir Henry Palmer and Capt. George Carteret, and the survivor of
them, during his Majesty's pleasure, upon surrender of that office
by Sir Henry Palmer, with such fees and allowances as were formerly
due and belonging to the said office. To be paid quarterly by the
treasurers of the navy for the time being, and in default thereof out
of the Exchequer. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Warrant to the Exchequer for payment of 500l. to Capt. William
Legg, by way of imprest upon account for repairing and perfecting
of his Majesty's arms in his magazines of the Tower and Hull, which
are very defective, and for payment of the wages of artificers to be
employed therein. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Warrant to the Master and Council of the Court of Wards and
Liveries to cause payment to be made out of the receipt there to
Francis Lord Willoughby, James Fiennes, and Sir Christopher Wray,
in satisfaction of the purchase of the manor or lordship of Wimbledon, and for the mansion house, park, and other lands there,
the sum of 16,789l. without account, according to a contract
made by the Lord Treasurer and others commissioners in that
behalf. At the desire of your Majesty's dearest consort the queen.
[See Coll. Sign Manuals, Charles I., Vol. xiii., No. 107.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Docquet of the same. |
Dec. 11.
Whitehall. |
62. Sir Dudley Carleton to the Treasurers of the Navy. The
Lords this day sitting in Council did request that you should
certify whether Sir Anthony Irby, sheriff of co. Lincoln in 1637,
Sir Robert Whitney, sheriff of co. Hereford in 1638, the sheriffs of
cos. Montgomery and Carmarthen in 1638, or any of them, have
paid any ship-money for the years of their sheriffalties since the
6th inst. Underwritten, |
|
62. i. Note signed by Sir William Russell to the effect that
Sir Robert Whitney paid 610l. on the 10th inst., William
Jones, sheriff of co. Carmarthen, paid 269l. on the 9th.,
and the other two had not paid any money since the 6th.
12th Dec. 1639. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 11. |
63. Brief particulars of the will and estate of John Kingston,
freeman of London, deceased, drawn out for the information of
Sir John Lambe in a suit in the Arches Court, brought by Simon
Kingston and others against George and Ann Benion. John
Kingston died at sea, leaving Frances his wife his executrix, who
took her oath to execute his will, but before she got it under seal,
being hindered by a caveat entered by Simon Kingston father of
the deceased, died, possessed of part of his estate, as his widow,
according to the custom of London, but a great part remained
invested in the East India Company. The said Frances appointed
her sister Ann, wife of George Benion, party in this suit, her
executrix, and Sir Henry Martin then granted administration of the
goods of John Kingston, with the will annexed, to her husband
George Benion, who as administrator assigned the debts and commodities beyond the seas to Simon Kingston and the rest of the
parties in this suit by letter of attorney, who refuse to accept of
them and say they are desperate. Then follows an account of the
debts and legacies already paid and money laid out in suits brought
by Simon Kingston. [2 pp.] |
Dec. 12.
Westminster. |
64. Edward Nicholas to Sir John Pennington, aboard the Unicorn
in the Downs. I believe you will hear before this can come to your
hands his Majesty's resolution to call a parliament about the end
of March or beginning of April next, whereof his Majesty made
a public declaration this day sennight sitting in Council, and it is
said that it hath been the Lord Deputy [Wentworth] who has
persuaded the King to a parliament. I pray God it may succeed
as well for the good of the kingdom, as the news of it is acceptable
to all men in this kingdom. The writs for levying ship-money
this next year are sent out, and shall proceed, notwithstanding the
assembling of a parliament, which is much marvelled at by many
discreet and well-affected men. The Lord Deputy goes over very
shortly for Ireland, where it is said there shall also be a parliament
held very speedily, but his lordship will be here again by the
beginning of our parliament in England. The Scots have prorogued
their parliament till June next, according to his Majesty's command
sent to them. The Prince Elector is still held close [prisoner] in
the Bois de Vincennes in France, unless the letters sent from his
Majesty by Thomas Windebank have procured him more liberty.
I cannot learn what is like to be the issue of our present treaty
with the States' Ambassador, but some say it will be to good effect.
Divers of our great Lords, Councillors, have declared to his Majesty
that they will lend him large sums of money, viz., the Lord Deputy,
20,000l.; the Lord Keeper, 10,000l.; the Lord Privy Seal and Earl
of Newcastle, 10,000l. apiece, and so divers others, to the value of
300,000l. in all. The writs for the parliament are preparing, and
some think that Sergeant Glanville will be speaker. It will not be
long after Christmas before we shall, as I hear, have a new Secretary
of State in place of Sec. Coke, who is much decayed, and albeit I
cannot commend him for anything, yet I wish we have not a worse
in his room, for seldom comes the better. There is very much
labouring by divers to be parliament men, but I think they will
be happiest who are not of the House. The Earl of Kent is dead,
and a clergyman is by descent Earl of Kent, with which honour
there does descend to him only 500l. per annum. The Countess
Dowager of Kent so much laments the death of her husband that
Mr. Selden cannot comfort her. The Lord Chief Baron of Ireland
is appointed to be Lord Chancellor of that kingdom. The Earl of
Newcastle was sworn of the Privy Council this last week. I thank
you very kindly for your news from Flanders, for I must owe to
your friendship and kind correspondence all the intelligence and
advertisements I have from foreign parts. I pray vouchsafe to
believe that you never loved a man that sets a higher price on
your friendship, or that can be more than I am heartily your
faithful friend. [Seal. 1¾
pp.] |
Dec. 12.
Queen Street. |
65. Thomas Smith to Sir John Pennington. Gives a reason why
his letter written on Thursday came no sooner to Pennington. The
parliament holds, and the day appointed for the first session is the
13th April; but, between you and me, few men believe it, but think
it will be put off from time to time. Howsoever, the King has
declared to his Council that he wants money to provide a competent
guard upon the frontiers of Scotland, and therefore has desired of
them to borrow what they think fit to lend him, promising to
repay the same with the first moneys [that] shall come to him from
the parliament, whereof my Lord Deputy has promised 20,000l.,
my Lord Chamberlain as much, the Earl of Newcastle 10,000l.;
none of the rest have declared themselves, but most of them begin
to provide, but few can get credit; for that nobleman who could
before have what money he would, cannot upon this occasion
procure the moiety of his desires, and you would admire to hear
the various discourses occasioned by this loan. I beseech the Lord
all things may do well, but I much fear it. Concerning your own
affairs, Mr. Surveyor has moved my Lord [of Northumberland] that
the warrant for your pay might be specified, in point of time, when
to begin, and they (I not being by) agreed that it should continue
to the time of the last fleet's coming in, and so brought me word,
but I, considering that if it should be so, your Vice-Admiral should
have advantage of you by some 12 or 14 days' pay, prevailed with
my Lord that it should run on to the time of Sir [Henry] Mainwaring's paying off. I have got your warrant so signed, and will
send it to Mr. Surveyor, who, as he tells me, has order to receive
your pay, so that you see great men's minds may alter. As for
your coming in, it is very true that you are victualled but to the
1st of March, and may come in at that time, unless any extraordinary
occasion procures your revictualing. [Capt.] Carteret's patent is
to be sealed to-morrow; he presents his very humble service to you.
[2 pp.] |
| Dec. 12. |
66. Receipted bill of Thomas Hickes, apothecary, for medicine
supplied to Nicholas and his family, amounting to 5l. 4s. 0d.,
"besides 2s. 6d. given to their box." [1 p.] |
Dec. 12/22.
Paris. |
67. Christopher Windebank to his father, Sec. Windebank. Was
much gratified by the coming of his brother [Thomas] to Paris on
the business of the King of England. Through his brother's means
he had received many marks of distinction. The season of Christmas approaching, wishes his father health to enjoy the festivities.
[Italian. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 13. |
The King to Lord Keeper Coventry. Requires him to execute
speedily what he shall find fit to be done in a particular case of
one Wright in a point of Quare impedit, when the matter be brought
before him judicially, for the quiet settling of Wright in the rectory
of Dennington, Suffolk, to which he is presented by his Majesty,
and constantly to pursure the same in all other cases of like nature.
[Docquet.] |
| Dec. 13. |
The same to Edward Morris, sheriff of co. Montgomery. License
for him to remain at his dwelling-house in co. Denbigh, where his
only habitation is, during the time of his sheriffalty. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 13. |
Warrant to the Exchequer to pay to the Treasurers of the Navy,
for building a new ship of war of about 500 tons, 5,098l. 18s. 0d.
imprest upon account, in full of an estimate subscribed by the
Lord Admiral and officers of the navy. [Docquet.] |
| [Dec. 13.] |
68. Petition of John Reresby to the Council. There was an
Order of Council for staying the felling of timber in Thriburgh Park,
co. York, which Lionel Copley had bought, since which time there
has been none felled, it being very good timber both for shipping
and building, and has been so employed. Prays that he may have
the same benefit that others, his Majesty's subjects, have, according
to law, and that the Lords would grant their directions for felling
and disposing of the same. [¾
p.] |
| Dec. 13. |
69. Petition of Sir Anthony Thomas, Samuel Thomas, William
Bosvile, and others to the Council. Nehemiah Rawson has been
divers times committed by the Board for his obstinate opposition to
the law of sewers, and his wilful contempt of the several Orders of
Council. He has also got out of prison several times, yet will not be
conformable, but daily vexes petitioners and others with suits and
otherwise to their great expense. The Lords lately directed their
warrants for Rawson's apprehension, and he is now in custody of a
messenger, yet will not enter his appearance or yield obedience,
neither will he pay the messenger's fees, or give petitioners or their
tenants any satisfaction for the great wrongs done by him, but
gives out that he will have another Habeas corpus, so soon as he is
committed by your Lordships, and be tried by Magna Carta, and
will never yield, which evil example may prove very perilous in
those parts where he lives. Prays order for Rawson's commitment,
with a special direction to the Warden of the Fleet, that the prisoner
may not go out until he shall yield obedience to the Board, and
the Lords give special order for his delivery, so as he may be made
conformable hereafter. Underwritten, |
|
69. I. Reference to Thomas Meautys, Clerk of the Council, with
the Clerk of the Council attendant, to call both parties
before them, and certify the Board the true state of these
differences, whereupon the Lords will give further direction
Whitehall, 13th Dec. 1639. |
| Dec. 13. |
70. Petition of Richard Hunt, Thomas Wingfield, Thomas Knight,
and John Proud, aldermen of Shrewsbury, to the Council. By reason
of the often divided government of the town, and for many other
weighty considerations, Thomas Nicholls, then head bailiff, with petitioners and many more, petitioned his Majesty for the renewal of their
charter, who referred the same to the Lords. Pray that their
charges in the same may be referred to Sir Thomas Milward to
examine and allow what shall appear necessarily disbursed. Underwritten, |
|
70. I. Reference to Sir Thomas Milward to have regard to this
petition, and to do therein according to their Lordships'
letter already sent, touching the reimbursement of charges
in suing out the new charter of Shrewsbury. Whitehall,
13th Dec. 1639. |
| Dec. 13. |
71. Petition of the Spanish Merchants to the Council. For settling
the business with the vintners, petitioners pray that the vintners may
be ordered as follows. To make their medium within a month in
an equal proportion what quantity of wines every vintner ought to
take, and to enjoin them, upon certain penalties, to take them off
as they are imported and filled up, according to their contract, and
before they take any of strangers and others that have not subscribed to the duty and service, and herewith every vintner will buy
his proportion in due time, to prevent the putting of bad wine upon
him, the trouble of allotting, and the laying of wines in the streets,
to the great scandal of government and authority, is also excused.
And being thus settled, many more merchants will be encouraged
to seal and subscribe to the service and duty, and the petitioners
will undertake to persuade others to conform, to make up their
number 40, that the vintners may have more room and choice to
furnish themselves. The merchants also pray the Lords to declare
whether the vintners shall take off the wines now remaining on their
hands, or whether they may sell them to whom they can, without
incurring the imputation of any breach of covenant. The observance
of the Lords' orders in these particulars being enjoined with certain
penalties, together with an order general to compel those vintners
to make payment for their wines which have or shall refuse to do
it, the occasion of further trouble to their Lordships ceaseth.
Underwritten, |
|
71. i. Order that these propositions be showed to Alderman Abell
and the farmers of 40s. per tun wine duty, who are to
certify against the 18th inst. whether they shall think the
same convenient for the service, together with the reasons
of their opinion, whereupon they will order therein as to
their wisdom shall seem fit. 13th December 1639. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 13. |
72. Sir Edmund Sawyer to Robert Read, secretary to Sec. Windebank. I was sent for yesterday by Lord Cottington to engage me
for Mr. Secretary, who intends to stand for knight of the shire for
Berks. I told his Lordship I would do nothing therein at his
request, for Mr. Secretary had power to command all that I could
do. I am somewhat troubled that Mr. Secretary should make any
doubt of me, or what I can do in the country. If you had but told
me he desired such a thing, it had been enough for me, for I have
received so many favours from him, that I should be glad of any
occasion wherein I might serve him. I cannot undertake much,
but I hope by my Lord Craven's tenants and other my friends in
the vale, either for fear or love, I shall be able to make some voices;
what I can do his honour shall be sure of. I fear I shall not be so
happy as to be there myself, unless my Lord of Suffolk's affairs be
better settled than they are yet. The election is usually at
Abingdon, and the men who dwell near there, and who come in the
morning and go home at night, are those who usually carry the
business. Our forest men are but a handful in respect of them, and
many will make excuses in respect of the long journey and charge.
There is near Abingdon my Lady of Banbury's tenants at Cholsey,
and Alderman Pratt's tenants at Coleshill, who may do some service,
and his honour may easily have them. Sir Robert Pye may do his
Lordship some service with those about Farringdon. I cannot think
of any like to stand, unless it be John Phetiplace [Fettyplace] or
Mr. Martyn. When his honour finds who is likely to stand, the
best way is to join with the strongest in voices, to have his voices,
and he to have his honour's. I am suddenly going into the country,
otherwise I would have waited upon his honour. Sir Richard
Harrison and I will meet at Twyford before Christmas, and then
we will consult of the best way to further the business. [Seal with
arms. 1½
pp.] |
| Dec 13. |
73. Petition of the Bailiffs, Aldermen, and Adventurers for Westmony, [Greenland] in the port of Great Yarmouth, to the Council.
According to the late reference of the Board, petitioners have given
notice to the farmers of the salt duties to attend the Lords this day.
And whereas petitioners have this year yielded 100 lings demanded
for compositions for the Westmony ships, which is double the
quantity that any of the ships built in that port ever heretofore did
pay, notwithstanding the ships are now generally less in burthen
than in times past, when they had the benefit to fish in harbour,
which privilege they are now deprived of. And for that by the ancient
agreement for the said compositions it is well known to the Green
Cloth that the ships paying composition lings were freed from all
custom upon their salt for that voyage, and yet were then at
liberty to provide and buy it where best and cheapest they might,
a favour which the fishery generally enjoys in foreign parts, and
therefore more considerable to be extended to this particular voyage,
by reason of the many hardships depending upon it, which has
already beaten off all foreign persons trading thither, as also all
other natives of this kingdom, petitioners only excepted, and they
of 23 sail within four or five years set forth in one season are
decayed, and now but 13, and those without your favourable support
to be extended are not like long to subsist. Pray for the encouragement of themselves and of all persons that may attempt the raising
up of the said languishing voyage for the future, and a more hopeful
assurance of competent quantities of ling obtainable only by means
of this voyage, that they may enjoy the ancient agreement in the
liberty of their salt, which to the ships now trading will not exceed
500 weighs per annum, or whensoever the trade shall further
increase by a greater number of ships and salt, so the compositions
will comparatively do the like, and for preventing all future disturbance about the salt and the said compositions, both for Westmony
and Iceland, the same may be confirmed either by an order of the
Board or in the counting-house of the Green Cloth. Underwritten, |
|
73. I. The Lords require the Society of Salters [Saltmakers] of
South and North Shields to see this petition and make
answer to so much thereof as concerns them. Whitehall,
13th Dec. 1639. [1 p.] |
Dec. 14.
Burderop. |
74. Sir William Calley to Richard Harvey. I had thought
Sir Richard Parkhurst and Mr. Tichborne might have been outlawed
long since, seeing they did not appear, and I doubt there has been
some negligence in the prosecution. I wish myself ofttimes in
London, to hear the news there stirring, for by what I hear from
some friends, and conjecture by divers circumstances, there will
follow great alterations in many places in divers respects ere it be
long. God send all to turn for the best. [Seal with arms. ½
p.] |
Dec. 14.
Burderop. |
75. William Calley, jun., to the same. I pray present from my wife
to Mr. Porter a small rundlet of metheglin [wine] sent by Thomas
Smith. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 14. |
76. Capt. William Batten to Sir John Pennington. I was
yesterday with my Lord Admiral with the warrant for your salary,
and told him you had a troublesome and chargeable time in the
Downs, whilst the [Dutch and Spanish] fleets were there. His
Lordship has given order that a new warrant be drawn, and you be
allowed 40s. per diem till the St. Andrew and the last fleet was
paid off. The like he has done by Sir Henry Mainwaring for
20s. per diem, being formerly paid for six months; so that as soon as
I receive the warrant back, I will have a bill signed, receive the
money, and wait your order for the disposal of it. I would entreat
you to let Mr. White take a muster of all the ships under your
command, and to send me up books signed by the captains and
pursers to avoid further deceit, for of late Mr. Barlow has signed
false tickets for 32l. 10s. 0d., and the men are paid them, in the
which Capt. Fielding's hand and his purser's were counterfeited, and
myself for 12l., Capt. Burleigh and his purser's hands counterfeited.
The men who did this were Cole and Paradise, formerly employed
in the King's service. We took and placed them in prison with
three others, and the business was in the Attorney-General's hands,
but they have given their keeper the slip and run away. I have
sent enclosed a perfect list of the ships for next year, altered in some
particulars from that I formerly gave you, in regard the Lord
Marshal proceeds not, and the Convertive goes in the room of the
Bonaventure. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 14. |
77. Examination of John Maitland, alias Quashott, a native of
Scotland, aged 42 years, taken before Sir John Lambe and others.
Is a Roman Catholic, and so has been for these 30 years. Acknowledges that he preached two sermons in English at the Venetian
ambassador's, namely, on the first Sunday in Advent last, and on
Sunday last, being the 8th inst. Denies he has written any letter or
letters to Paris these last seven years. The oath of allegiance being
tendered to him, he desires time to consider of the same. Denies
that he ever wrote against Father Francis's book touching conformity. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 14. |
78. Account by Sir William Russell and Henry Vane, Treasurers of the Navy, of ship-money for 1638. Total received,
53,010l. 14s. 11d.; remaining, 16,739l. 5s. 1d. Memorandum:
Received, 394l. 16s. 0d., arrearages for the preceding year, since
the last certificate. |
| Dec. 14. |
79. Account of ship-money for 1638, levied and remaining in the
hands of the sheriffs. Total, 1,110l., which makes the total levied
and paid in all, 54,120l. The state of arrears was as follows: for
1635, 4,536l.; 1636, 7,049l.; 1637, 18,711l.; 1638, 16,739l. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Commission to Capt. Henry Ashton and others, authorising them
to repair to Barbadoes and other islands granted to the late Earl of
Carlisle and his heirs by his Majesty, and to declare in the King's
name upon the said islands that his Majesty did not intend, much
less authorise, Capt. Henry Hawley to be governor or lieutenantgeneral of Barbadoes; and to charge Hawley and his deputy or
agents upon their allegiance to yield up the government to SergeantMajor Huncks, or such other as the now Earl of Carlisle shall
appoint, and to make their personal repair into England, there to
answer such matters as shall be objected against them, and that
if he or they shall refuse so to do, then the commissioners named
shall send them under arrest to England by the next convenient
passage. [Docquet.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Petition of William Polewheele, Gentleman of the Privy Chamber,
to the King. Petitioner is seised in fee of certain lands in Kirton,
co. Lincoln, near adjoining to a waste there, called the 800 fen, and
of common of pasture in the said waste lands. During the time
petitioner was in attendance upon your Majesty in the North 49 acres
of his lands were by your commissioners found to be surrounded
grounds, whereas he and his ancestors have been in possession
thereof or received rents for the same almost 100 years. Petitioner
is very much hurt, not only in the loss of his land, but also of his
common and accommodation, whereby the residue of his lands is
much lessened in value. Being unwilling to dispute your Majesty's
title and justice therein, he casts himself and his fortune at your
feet, and will submit and abide your good pleasure. Prays the
grant of a lease for three lives of 1,000 acres of the said waste
grounds bordering on his lands, at such yearly rent as your commissioners for that revenue (the premises considered) shall find
just. Underwritten, |
|
I. Reference to the Lord Treasurer and Lord Cottington, who
are to certify his Majesty their opinions of petitioner's
desires, whereupon he will signify his further pleasure.
Whitehall, 16th Dec. 1639. [Copy. See Book of Petitions,
Vol. cccciii., p. 130. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
80. Petition of Sir Arthur Terringham and Dame Maudlin, his
wife, on the behalf of themselves and Nicholas Bagnall, his Majesty's
now ward, to Archbishop Laud. Sir John Lambe, being attended,
according to his Grace's order, by petitioners' counsel and Sir
Thomas Holland's about the stay of the faculty lately granted to
Sir Thomas for erecting an aisle adjoining the north side of the
chancel of the church of Eskeiviog [Llanfihangel Ysceifiog]. It
appeared that Sir Thomas Holland was not an inhabitant of that
parish, but desired the faculty, with license to repair from his own
parish to hear divine service there for his own ease and convenience.
Petitioners and their ancestors, under whom they claim, have for a
long time been the principal inhabitants, and of best estate and esteem
in that parish, and therefore humbly beseech your Grace that if you
shall please to grant Sir Thomas for his conveniency a faculty to
erect an aisle you will order him to take away the two seats he has
most inconveniently erected in the chancel near the communion
table, as also not to build the aisle adjoining to any part of the
chancel nor above petitioners' seats, the rather because Sir John
Lambe was of the same opinion, and that your Grace will refer the
choice of the place under the conditions aforesaid to the Bishop of
Bangor, the chancellor of the diocese, or to whom else you shall
please, and in the meantime to stay the erecting of the aisle.
Underwritten, |
|
80. I. Reference to Sir John Lambe to peruse this petition, and
to write a letter in Archbishop Laud's name for the final
settlement of this business in a just and reasonable way.
Dec. 16th, 1639. [1 p.] |
Dec. 16.
Tower Street. |
81. Commissioners for licensing the sale of Tobacco to the
Council. Pray a warrant to one of the Council messengers to
apprehend 68 persons, named, in divers counties of England and
Wales, who refuse to appear upon the commissioners' summons. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
82. The same to the same. Similar application for warrant to
arrest 66 persons named in other counties. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
83. List of defaulters, some of whom are the same as those named
in the preceding entries. [1 p.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
84. Resolutions of the Committee of the Council for War. This
day the gunsmiths undertook to make for his Majesty 1,600 muskets
a month, besides carbines and pistols, and to this purpose have
delivered a note under their hands. It was agreed that the gunmakers should receive for muskets already delivered after the rate
of 18s. apiece, and out of that pay all fees; but for the future
they were content to take 16s. 6d. apiece, clear of all fees. Resolved, that 15,000 muskets be forthwith put in hand, whereof
5,000 to be of the larger size, or four feet in the barrel, weight
14 lb., and 10,000 of the shorter, or 3½ feet, weight 12 lb. The
Master of the Ordnance is to call before him all the officers of the
Ordnance, and to cause a perfect certificate to be made what
particular fees are taken by each officer and his clerk, deputy, or
servant from such artificers and others as receive any moneys out
of that office, and to send such particular certificate to this committee
with all possible expedition. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
85. Complaint by the Gunmakers to [the Committee of the Council
of War] represent the number of men they have to wait upon before
they receive their moneys, and the fees expected by the clerks of
the Ordnance for the work done for his Majesty's store. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
86. Certificate of John Watson and four other gunmakers that
they can make monthly for his Majesty's service 1,600 muskets,
besides carbines and pistols, provided they have ready money, and
part of it in hand before they begin. [½
p.] |
| Dec. 16. |
87. Estimate for the repairing, fitting, and completing of 700
horsemen's arms and 1,500 foot, which came from Hamburgh,
and for providing 517 harquebusiers, completely furnished for
horse and man, as also of 32,513 foot arms, viz., 16,256 pikemen
and 16,257 musketeers, being for the complete furnishing of 60,000
foot and 3,000 horse. Total, 65,564l. 4s. 0d. Memorandum.—The
16,257 muskets, according to the proportion of 1,600 a month,
which the gunsmiths have certified they are able to furnish,
will be made in ten months and nine days. The 16,256 corslets
according to the proportion of 350 a month, which the armourers
have certified they are able to make, will be made in 46 months
and a half. [= 2 pp.] |
| Dec. 16. |
88. Answer to the Tenth Article [in a suit in Chancery?] touching
the rents of the bishopric of Ely in arrear at the installation of
Bishop Wren. [Endorsed by William Dell: "My Lord of Ely,
Bishop Wren's case concerning the nonpayment of rent and the
days of re-entry." 1 p.] |
