Charles II - volume 158: June 1-14, 1666

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1665-6. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1864.

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'Charles II - volume 158: June 1-14, 1666', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1665-6, (London, 1864) pp. 424-441. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1665-6/pp424-441 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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June 1-14, 1666

June 1.
Harwich. 8 A.M.
1. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. He [and Lord Ossory] reached Hampstead, 10 miles from Audley, last night about midnight; rested three or four hours in their clothes, and set out again, arriving by 7 p.m. They hear that the Dutch fleet lies between Ostend and Dunkirk, and the English fleet on this side the Goodwin Sands; are impatient to reach the fleet before the engagement, and so are going off in a little shallop called the Young Rupert, of 6 guns, 16 oars, and 40 men, to try to join it. In case of falling in with the enemy, will do better than the Knight of Malta in the Victory. [2 pages.]
June 1.
10 A.M. Royal Charles, 4 leagues off the North Foreland.
2. Sir Wm. Clarke to Williamson. Vessels are discovered towards the coast of Flanders, 20 or 30 sail, some say 40, supposed to be the Dutch fleet; are preparing to engage them. With postscript, 11 a.m., that 75 sail are now in sight.
June 1.
Dover.
3. Warham Jennett, sen., to Williamson. The Dutch fleet made no stop at Calais, but only sent to ask M. le Comte de Charost if he had any commands, as they were going to the Thames; they were seen from Dover Castle tower, lying off the North Foreland.
June 1.
Playford. 7 P.M.
4. Sir H. Felton to the Earl of Suffolk. Capt. Shipman, bailiff of Aldborough, sends word that between three and four this afternoon, they espied the Dutch fleet of 70 sail to the south.
June 1. 5. "List of the Lord General's fleet when he engaged," containing 60 vessels, with the commanders names, and numbers of men and guns in each. [2¼ pages.]
June? 6. Similar list, containing 77 ships, with commanders' names. [3 pages.]
June? 7. Draft of the above. [3¼ pages.]
June ?
London.
8. List of all the ships of the Navy Royal, with the numbers of men and guns in each; also of six hired ships, 20 prizes taken from the Dutch, and 11 fire-ships. With note of the fleet being divided into the squadrons Red, White, and Blue. [Printed.]
June 1.
Plymouth.
9. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Repairs of the Victory; sends a survey of masts; some are wanted. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
9. i. Survey, by Jostlin Carne, and two other shipwrights, of six masts, brought in by the Friezland and Rainbow, and account of four disposed of. Plymouth, May 30, 1666.
9. ii. Inventory and appraisement of the Victoria frigate of Rochelle; value, 2,158l. 12s.
9. iii. Note by Thos. Scott and two others, of carpenter's work needful for her repairs. May 31, 1666.
9. iv. Survey, by John Garratt, boatswain of the Hulk, and three others, of her standing rigging.
Plymouth, June 1, 1666.
June 1.
The Warspite.
10. Capt. Robt. Robinson to Sam. Pepys. Wishes Mr. Adrian to be master of his ship. [Adm. Paper.]
June 2.
Dieppe.
11. Peter Crucifix to the Navy Comrs. Will undertake the shipping of goods at Ostend, if the Board will stand the venture of the seas from Ostend to Dover; promises to draw no bills until the goods are well arrived in England. [Adm. Paper.]
June 2.
Portsmouth.
12. John Shales to Sam. Pepys. Has delayed his returns in order to complete them up to the 1st inst. Proposes in the account current to make the port debtor to the declaration and creditor by issues in proportion. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
12. i. Account by John Shales and Wm. Thorogood of cask, iron hoops, and bags returned into the port of Portsmouth, during the months of April and May, 1666.
June 2.
Ipswich.
13. Andrew Crawley to Sam. Pepys. State of the victualling stores; seven victuallers are lading, and will sail to the fleet within four days. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
13. i. Schedule of letters of credit for victuals, granted to 13 ships during the month of May, by And. Crawley.
13. ii. Account of cask, iron hoops, and biscuit bags received in May, by And. Crawley.
June 2.
Ordnance Office.
14. Sir J. Duncombe and Thos. Chicheley to the Navy Comrs. The guns furnished by the owners of the George Merchant are complained of as useless; it is impossible for the office to satisfy the demands of every ill furnished merchant ship. [Adm. Paper.]
June 2.
Weymouth.
15. Geo. Pley, [sen.,] to Sam. Pepys. Hears that there is no hope of receiving a credit upon the customs, but must expect to be paid in course; this may be six or twelve months hence; must leave the goods in the workmen's hands, to dispose of as they can; they have been much solicited from Bristol for their cloth, and offered a higher price for it. Farewell to any more supplies for the King. Tow is now double its former price, so that sailcloth should rather be advanced than the manufacturers have to stop for their money. [Adm. Paper.]
June 2.
Bristol.
16. Dan. Furzer to the Navy Comrs. The painting of Mr. Baylie's new ship is badly done, and her forecastle too long; wishes the second calking had been entrusted to Mr. Knight; by the industry of the captain and officers, she will soon be dispatched. Capt. Teate has set sail for Milford. Requires the number, weight, and dimensions of the guns for his ship to be sent down, in order to prepare carriages. [Adm. Paper.]
June 2. 17. Information by Peter Harris, master of the Nicholas and John of Dover, and Hen. Staples, master of the Owners' Adventure, that the English and Dutch fleet engaged yesterday, and at 2 p.m two Dutch ships were on fire, and the English General's flag staff shot down; that the English were left fighting at 8 p.m., and behaved very bravely; they were about 10 leagues from the coast of Flanders.
June 2.
Royal James, near Dover.
18. Ri. Harrison to Sir Thos. Clifford. Prince Rupert, coming near Dover to meet the General at the Downs, is advertised that the fleet has gone to meet the Dutch, and an Ostender says that he sailed between the two fleets off Ostend, and they were within seven or eight leagues of each other. The Prince makes all the speed he can, with 26 of the swiftest sailers in the fleet, to overtake them before they engage.
June 2.
London.
19. P— to Lord Arlington. The times require great attention to affairs. Though the King's forces are strong enough to meet any enemy, it can never be told on which side victory will fall. Offers service, not from hope of gain or preferment, being abundantly obliged already, but to do his duty and see the great expectations of seditious people frustrated. His address is the Seven Stars, Birchin Lane.
June 2.
Plymouth.
20. John Clarke to James Hickes. There has been a cruel storm, and a Portugal ship laden with sugar, oil, and pieces of eight, which was waiting a convoy, split on the rocks.
June 3.
Whitehall.
21. Sir Wm. Coventry to Lord Arlington. On Friday morning the Duke of Albemarle, sailing toward the Gunfleet, came within view, by his scouts, of the Dutch fleet off Ostend, and engaged them; guns heard yesterday and the day before tell that they were at work, but the event is not known. On the Friday, the General and Sir Robt. Holmes' flag staffs were shot down, and their sails so shot that they had to anchor to get fresh ones. The Henry and and Portland are come disabled to Aldborough; the former, commanded by Rear-Admiral Harman, was thrice chased by fire-ships, and once fired whilst trying to retire, but the fire was extinguished; she had 100 men killed and drowned, and 50 wounded. Harman, who is hurt, only knows that two Dutch ships were fired by accident. The sound of guns went away last night, 9 p.m.; there is ground of fear, the Dutch having 75 to 90 sail, and the Lord General 57 to 60. It was hoped that Prince Rupert would have joined him from the Isle of Wight, but letters from the Prince show that he was no farther than Dover at 10 last night. There and in the Downs they know nothing of the fight, but the Prince heard that the Dutch were off Ostend, and our fleet not far from them. Lord Ossory and Sir Thos. Clifford went to Harwich to join the fleet, but will probably be too late for the action. [3 pages.]
June 3?
Edinburgh.
22. Robt. Mein to Williamson. Thinks the fight is not ended yet. A noise of guns is heard on the coast, which is taken for the Dutch flying and the English in pursuit. The people are most anxious for good news; 2,000 were waiting at the post house when the packet came in.
June 3.
Dover.
23. Fr. Hosier to Sam. Pepys. Mr. Wivell still pleads ignorance of Mr. Gauden's directions. Waits to complete the accounts of last month by his books. Thanks for the warrant for mustering ships. Mr. Elkin recommended for Gravesend, would be glad to betake himself to a private house, rather than leave his present employment. Prince Rupert's fleet came into Dover, but sailed at break of day. [Adm. Paper.]
June 3.
Plymouth.
24. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. Nine ships have set sail for the Western squadron. Will send up their muster rolls shortly. [Adm. Paper.
June 3.
Plymouth.
25. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. Particulars of ships manned and ready for service. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
25. i. Account by T. Waltham of sea victuals delivered to the Sorlings and the Victory prize.
June 3.
Plymouth.
26. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. The Foresight is damaged in a storm. Has supplied her with a 1-inch cable from the Victory prize. Nine ships under the command of Capt. Harman have set sail. [Adm. Paper.]
June 3.
Portsmouth.
27. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The surgeon sent down for the Orange is arrived now the ship is gone; he is to go in the Mary instead. The 2,000 deals mentioned would be a considerable store. Two ships are detained in port by contrary winds; cannot stow away half the tar contained in them; must put about 100 lasts in one of the store ships. Has granted two days' holiday to the labourers. [Adm. Paper, 2 pages.]
June 3.
Portsmouth.
28. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Acknowledges the receipt of tickets, but still wants money to pay the men. The Deal prize has taken up much time in her dispatch. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
28. i. Petition from the Company of the Macklier and Posthorse hoys to the Navy Comrs., for speedy payment of their wages, having been employed for 23 months in bringing up stones from Portland, to build the King's house at Greenwich.
June 4.
Royal Sovereign.
29. Capt. John Cox to Sam Pepys. Wants tickets. Is under sail for the buoy off the Spites. [Adm. Paper.]
June 4.
The Milkmaid, Yarmouth Roads.
30. Thos. Stollard to the Navy Comrs. Is ready to sail whenever the Franakin and convoy appear. Has a musket on board to give notice, but no guns. [Adm. Paper.]
June 4.
Dover.
31. Fr. Hosier to Sam. Pepys. Has drawn out fresh accounts for March and April; Mr. Wivell still refuses to show his books and will only suffer that his man should read them; finds constant mistakes; a man serving in cattle confesses that he was made to sign more than he was paid for; Mr. Wivell is a factious person and acts contrary both to Church and State. [Adm. Paper, 2 pages.]
June 4.
Dover.
32. E. Wivell to Sam. Pepys. Has given no just occasion for Mr. Hosier's complaints, but has done more than was required, by giving account of all cask, biscuit bags, and iron hoops received into the stores, which is clearly the joint work of the surveyor and cooper; it has been Mr. Hosier's practice to neglect keeping due accounts, and to copy the weekly receipts from the books, which takes up much time, and impedes business; by Mr. Gauden's orders this is forbidden, and the accounts are read by a clerk, and afterwards duly examined. Mr. Gauden having now sent fresh orders, on complaints made to him, submits for Mr. Hosier to take his accounts from those of the storekeeper, the cooper, and the baker; is willing to give monthly or weekly reports of provisions bought, indents passed, and credits supplied. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages, damaged.]
June 4.
London.
33. Chr. Crafford to Viscount Conway. Paid the 500l. to Alderman Backwell, on his note to repay it with 5½ per cent. interest, at 10 days' notice. Is getting in other moneys, but they come in slowly.
June 4.
The Rainbow, North Foreland.
34. Jo. Hart to [Williamson ?]. Reached the Dutch fleet at anchor, eight leagues from Ostend, on the 1st. An attack was ordered. Was second to Harman, Rear-Admiral of the White, who bore into the Zealand squadron, and soon the whole fleet was engaged, for the Dutch, seeing an attack intended, slipped anchor and prepared to receive it. The Rainbow was so disabled in masts and rigging that she could not keep up; was attacked by 12 sail, and had 25 men killed and wounded, but the enemy's Admiral ship was made a hull three ships were fired, and six or seven maimed; being attacked by a fire-ship, stood near Ostend all night, and had difficulty at length in escaping clear and making his way back. Also,
Thos. Langley, of the Lily, off North Foreland, to [Williamson ?]. Yesterday morning, saw the General and his fleet bearing in, and the Hollanders pursuing, but Prince Rupert coming up, the Hollanders went northward, and the fleet pursued them; the guns were heard all the fore part of the night, and one ship was seen on fire. Had neither men nor ability to help, nor knew whether he might leave his station. [Copies, 2 pages.]
June 4.
Whitehall.
35. Statement that two seamen of the Royal Charles, sent on shore to Harwich, report that they made the enemy run all Friday and Saturday, till 16 fresh ships coming up to their succour, the English were overpowered and forced to retire to the coast, but Prince Rupert appearing, the English tacked; the enemy sent a squadron of 30 to intercept the Prince, leaving 40 against the Lord General, but the Prince, when the seamen left, was making for the fleet; 14 of the enemy's ships had been taken or fired, and Sir Wm. Clarke had his leg shot off. Capt. Clarke, of the Gloucester, arriving at the Gunfleet last night, adds that the Prince joining the General, the fortune of the day was turned. The firing has been great all the afternoon, till 6 p.m., and then passed further off, which gives good hopes. The enemy's Vice-Admiral attacked the English Admiral, but was received with so full a broadside that she fell back and never appeared again. The seamen bore up with infinite resolution, and several that had limbs cut off had them bound up, and returned to deck to work.
June 4. 36. Draft of the above.
June 4. 37. A true narrative of the engagement between His Majesty's fleet and that of Holland, begun June 1st, 1666, at 2 o'clock afternoon, and continuing till the 6th, at 10 o'clock at night. [9 pages, draft corrected by Lord Arlington.]
June 4. 38. Copy of the above, published by command. [6 pages, printed.]
June 5. 39. Reports of particulars of the engagements between the Dutch and English fleets, June 1 to 5, 11 a.m., when 50 sail were discovered standing toward the Gunfleet. [3½ pages.]
[Jan. 5.] 40. List of eight English captains wounded, and ten dead; of nine ships missing, some noted as burnt, sunk, or taken; and account of 1,500 men wounded in the late engagement.
June 5.
Saxham.
41. [Lord Arlington] to Williamson. Has had nothing worth sending an express about, but has received all his letters, written so carefully, of May 30 and 31, and June 2 and 3. Appearances are favourable, but there can be no assurance of a victory, so that all are kept in great perplexity. Will go on Thursday to Audley, and on Friday to London, but hopes to have goods news by the way. His grateful expressions are not lost. [2 pages.]
June 5. 42. J. Knight so Williamson. Particulars of loss sustained by several vessels in the late fight, and the death of several captains. Some of the wounded are landed at Harwich. Account of ships missing from the fleet. The engagement continues, and two ships are on fire. Is going to Southwold and Yarmouth with Sir Wm. Doyley, to attend to the wounded; 200 have arrived already. A fleet of 30 sail is in sight. [1¼ pages.]
June 5.
Loyal Subject, below Lee.
43. Capt. John Fortescue to Sir John Mennes. The engagement has begun; the enemy muster 90 odd sail; 3 of their ships are burned and several disabled; the Henry, Rainbow, and Swiftsure are missing; his own ship received 600 shots in her masts, sails, and rigging, and had to be towed out of the fleet; has 34 men killed and wounded, and is himself wounded in the face and leg. [Adm. Paper.]
June 5.
Portsmouth.
44. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Progress of the Constant Warwick; is unwilling to launch her until all the joiner's work is complete. Knows by experience that as much work can be done in dock for 4d. as afloat for 12d., and much embezzlement saved. Shall buy the elm timber, even at his own cost; there is not such another parcel to be had in the country. The Mary and two other ships have set sail for the Downs. All are longing to hear good news, and preparing to rejoice when it comes. [Adm. Paper, 2¼ pages.] Encloses,
44. i. Account by John Tippetts of masts wanted in store.
Portsmouth, June 5, 1666.
June 6.
Yarmouth.
45. James Johnson to Sam. Pepys. Thos. Lovell and his servant Edw. Roe, are at present free; should they be pressed, Pepys' name will suffice for their discharge. Begs payment of part of his bill. [Adm. Paper.]
June 6.
Saxham. 11 A.M.
46. [Lord Arlington] to Williamson. Sends a relation for the King, thinking he may not have had so particular a one. Wants an express to-morrow on his way. Asks if His Majesty is going down to the coast. Sir Thos. Clifford's letter should be called for when the King has done with it, that it be not lost. With the postal envelope, ordering the letter to be immediately dispatched, &c. Encloses,
46. i. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. On Friday the 1st, there was a fresh gale, and the next day the fleets engaged. With much ado, he and Lord Ossory got into the Royal Charles by 2 p.m., where all went well, but after a few hours, five of the English ships were so shattered that they had to retire to the ports, which disheartened the fleet, as so many good ships had left the day before, after the first pass, without notice to the Lord General, so that only 34 fighting ships were left. Nothing was to be heard among the seamen but complaints about the dividing the fleet, and sending away Prince Rupert. The General's conduct was very good, for he chose 16 ships as a bulwark to the rest, and shoving the others in a line before him, made a good retreat, till Sunday the 3rd, when at 3 p.m., Prince Rupert's fleet came up, and was received with great shouts, but in trying to join, several ships struck on the Gallopper Sands; one was the Royal Prince,—she was attacked by the Dutch, and though some frigates were sent to defend her, she yielded without firing ten guns in defence. The Dutch, being unable to get her off, fired her, which touched every heart in the fleet, for she was the best ship ever built, and like a castle on the sea. Such ships should only be trusted to persons of experienced thorough courage. Following up the Dutch, reached them on the 4th. Sir Chris. Myngs and Sir Rob. Holmes led the van. Attacks were made, several of their ships were fired, and not one of the English, and at 5 p.m., the Dutch fleet was fairly divided; part ran away, and whilst they were chased, the rest attacked the Duke of Albemarle. The Prince's ship, the Royal James, being disabled, De Ruyter attacked the General's ship, the Royal Charles, and so damaged her that she was obliged to tack, and unable to defend the frigates, and by unskilfulness of the captains of the Essex and Convertine, which both yielded, several frigates were taken. The rest joined the Prince's fleet; the Dutch cannot call it running away. The enemy were glad to be quiet, having several vessels maimed; the battle was a drawn one. The Dutch, besides ships taken, had seven burnt, and all their men lost. Sir Chris. Myngs and the Rupert are missing, but hopes they are well. Some of the English captains deserve hanging. Many ships got away after the first day, and two good ships that put out to sea went back when they heard the shooting. The Hollanders never before compelled the quitting of the seas; ammunition and stores must be suddenly provided. Money should be brought to pay the men, for they mutter about being 20 months behind. There should also be a new press for seamen, and then by appearing on the Hollander's coast, the brags which they will doubtless send out to the world will turn to their disadvantage. There are 1,500 wounded and 1,800 slain, with several captains. Lord Ossory had the command of a ship, but she was a bad sailer, so that he was unable to do as much as he wished. Sir Wm. Clarke was shot, and is since dead; the same shot bruised the Lord General's thigh. Lord Cavendish behaved very well, and the shallop that brought him and the writer, having six guns, did much good, both in attack and defence. Lord Ossory was received by both Admirals with much respect, and called to their private conferences. The fleet is now at Aldborough; hopes soon to join his lordship at Sarum. Apologizes for hasty writing. Has not slept two hours in the 24 since leaving him. Urges the speedy supply of the fleet. Would not have missed seeing the fight for half he is worth. [11 pages.]
Royal Charles, June 5, 1666.
June 6/16.
Bruges.
47. — to —. The States give out the best of the battle to be on their side. Sent a person on board the Dutch fleet, who reports that there seems to be but one commander left alive, there being only one flag ship, and that there are 50 sail, towed 3 or 4 together, all lamentably shattered, and their sad fates give assurance of a glorious victory got by the English; was on a ship of 50 guns, which had not 20 sound men in her. It is reported that De Ruyter is killed and Trump's right leg shot off. With note by Jas. Hickes that this letter was sent from Mr. Whittington in Hull.
June 7.
Whitehall.
48. Account of the late engagement between the English and Dutch. The former must be said to be victors, having driven away the Dutch, though with a much smaller number of vessels than theirs. Prince [Rupert] came in with 20 sail picked from the shattered remains of the General's fleet, and showed great vigour. This victory redounds more than any other known to the credit of the sailors. The Prince ran aground, and was burnt. Sir George Ayscough and his men are taken prisoners, which much grieves the King. The Essex is taken, the Swiftsure missing, and three other ships were burnt, lest they should fall into the enemy's hands. The Dutch lost 10 or 12 of their largest ships, and more would have been taken had not powder failed. Sir Chris. Myngs, though shot through the cheek, continued to give orders till wounded a second time. Sir Rob. Holmes did wonders, and Sir Thos. Teddeman, Harman, and Sir Edw. Spragg deserve praise. Damage was done to several ships. Sir Wm. Clarke and eight other captains were killed. The Dutch disabled vessels are making their way for Zealand. The people are much struck with the valour of the seamen. The Canary Company has sent 100l. for maimed men. The noblemen and King's servants are going to build a ship instead of the Prince, only larger, to carry 100 guns. [4 pages.]
June 7 ? 49. Note of the Bull as sunk, the Convertine taken, and the Prince burnt in the engagement in June.
June 7 ? 50. Note that in the June engagement, the Dutch had 90 ships, beside fire-ships; the English, 57; the Dutch had 6 or 7 ships burned; Tromp's ship and 19 others disabled, many being their best ships; one of their admiral's sunk, &c.
June 7 ? 51. Memoranda from the accounts given by the Dutch themselves of their losses during the late engagement.
June 7.
Dover. 6 p.m.
52. J. C[arlisle] to Williamson. The postmaster refused to send the enclosed till night by the flying post, the Flanders mail being gone, so whatever the King's concerns may be, intelligence will not be sent as it ought. Still hopes good news, as there are several reports that the Dutch are pursued. Encloses,
52. i. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Can get no certain tidings of the fleet. A shipmaster met 70 of the King's ships 10 leagues off Orfordness; and 20 more going to them; he reports that the Prince sunk 17 sail of the Dutch, that the English fleet is in pursuit, and that he heard guns from 8 to 11 p.m. The Custom House boat, which lies idle, should attend the fleet, and give an account of every transaction daily. Offers to go in her and write the news hourly. Does not like to see able seamen walk the streets, when three kingdoms lie at stake. Dover, June 7, 1666.
June 7.
Portsmouth.
53. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Has delivered their order to the clerk of the cheque to St. John Steventon. [Adm. Paper.]
June 7.
Portsmouth Yard.
54. Ben. Johnson to the Navy Comrs. Has impressed waggons to carry canvas to Deptford, for want of safe conveyance by sea. Must have a special press warrant to the justices of the county at large, for 30 waggons to be sent in. [Adm. Paper.]
June 7.
Loyal Subject, Longreach.
55. Capt. John Fortescue to the Navy Comrs. Is ordered by Sir Wm. Coventry to remain at Longreach. Begs permission to come up for the cure of his leg. [Adm. Paper.]
June 7. 56. Sam. Langford to Sam. Pepys. Notes of amendments and alterations in his new copy of the accounts for April, 1666. [Adm. Paper.]
June 7.
Royal James.
57. Rich. Ward to Sam. Pepys. Was prevented sending the sea books sooner, owing to the absence of most of the pursers in the Admiral's division, and the excuses of those that remained. [Adm. Paper.]
June 8.
London.
58. Hen. Johnson and Fr. Barham to the Navy Comrs. The Warspite is launched and ready for service. [Adm. Paper.]
June 8.
Kinsale.
59. Capt. Wm. Crispin to the Navy Comrs. Entreats repayment of the money so freely disbursed upon the sick and wounded seamen under his charge; is at a daily extraordinary disburse for the 300 prisoners of war now in the Provost Marshal's custody, and can get no money from the Commissioners for sick and wounded. Many prizes have been taken lately, but they are so scattered in different ports as to damage rather than advantage the service, whereas if any settled course were taken with them in Ireland as in England, they would more than defray the expenses of the sick and wounded, and prisoners. The seamen left behind from Capt. Grant's squadron have deserted for want of orders for their taking up; the master's mate of the Sorlings and 16 of his men are likely to do the same. [Adm. Paper.]
June 8.
Brussels.
60. Note by Ma. Bedingfield requesting Williamson's favour with Lord Arlington on his behalf, being in danger of having some gilt leather confiscated as forbidden goods; also of losing 600l. due to him from the late Sir Art. Slingsby, unless a powerful friend lay a charge on Fras. Slingsby, his sole executor.
June 8.
Royal Charles.
61. Narrative of the engagement between the English and Dutch fleets. The English fleet, of 57 sail, weighed anchor June 1st from the North Foreland, and soon discovered the enemy, 78 sail, chiefly large ships, and bore down on them in battle array towards Ostend. The White squadron began the attack; details of it; darkness separated the fleets, the Dutch having 4 ships burned. On June 2, after a sharp encounter, it was thought better to retreat, to mend the rigging and masts. On the 3d Prince Rupert's squadron was discovered coming up, and received with great acclamations of joy. Sailing to renew the fight, the Royal Charles and several other vessels struck on the Galloper Sands; all got off but the Prince, which the Dutch burned. On Monday another attack was made, and before 4 o'clock, the English fleet passed five times through that of the enemy, disabling many of their best ships. The commanders of nimble frigates did not do their duty in distroying the disabled ships. Of the enemy's fleet of 90, including fire-ships, only 30 or 40 continued together at the end. Prince Rupert, on the Royal James, showed great courage. Details of damage to particular ships. The Duke had ruined the Dutch fleet before the arrival of the Prince with 20 picked ships, who acquitted themselves well. It was the sharpest conflict ever known on the ocean. Names 20 captains, &c. who distinguished themselves, many of whom are dead and most of the rest wounded. [3 pages.]
June 8.
Southwold.
62. Willm. Waynfleet to Williamson. Yesterday five Dutch menof-war were discovered two leagues from shore, and six more joined them; they have sailed south-west. The trained bands were discharged on Thursday, supposing the fleet to be gone; but some men from the country joined those of the town, and kept good watch, one of the bailiffs riding by the sea all night, for fear of negligence. With note on the 9th, that several guns had been heard at 1 and 7 a.m.
June 9. 63. Prince Rupert to [Lord Arlington]. Hopes Sir Hugh O'Neal has told him particulars of the late engagement. Was once in a posture to strike a great stroke, but was forced off, not having so many ships to change as his Spitzbroder Trump. The damage to the fleet is general, but with diligence all may be repaired in 14 days' time; one man, in a ship on fire, asked the boatswain the best way to be saved; he told him to leap overboard, which he did, and was drowned. [1½ pages.]
June 9.
Royal Charles, Buoy of the Nore.
64. Duke of Albemarle to Lord Arlington. Is not surprised with the King's dissatisfaction at a claim made by Sir Thos. Clarges to some houses built on a place called the Forbury, as belonging to the Monastery of Reading granted to him. Appointed the houses for the King's servants belonging to the stables there, believing them to have been surreptitiously inserted in Clarges' grant, till a search in the records proved the contrary. Would not otherwise have been induced, for any consideration, to favour his claim, being incapable of bias where His Majesty's service is concerned. Thinks that Sir Thomas would surrender them on moderate terms, as they are very necessary for the King's service. Can give no account of the fleet's losses; they were overpowered with numbers, but the Dutch lost still more. Had only 22 or 23 vessels that stuck to him in the heat of the engagement, till the Prince came in. Hopes therefore the King will not be displeased if he displaces many captains. Hopes the King and Duke of York will press the Navy Officers to have the fleet ready in a fortnight. Would be glad to sail before Amsterdam, to hinder their conjunction, and gain a good reputation. [2 pages.]
June 9.
Aldborough.
65. Rich. Brown to Williamson. A dozen Dutch men-of-war are hovering about the bay, some attempting to sound; think it is either to intercept the Newcastle fleet, or to direct to their own fleet any supplies that may come from Holland. They have caused some alarms, but the people are supine; 100 militia have twice come down and returned within two hours, nor are they fit to do the work. There are many seamen, but the magistrates themselves abscond them. A Swedish ship has passed northwards, with a pass from De Ruyter, dated from the Thames.
[June 9.] 66. The King to the Mercers' Company. Recommends the Earl of Castlemaine to his tenant right of renewal from them, on reasonable fine and rental, of the lease of certain lands near Charing Cross, held by his ancestors on grant from the Earl of Northampton, founder of Greenwich Hospital, of which they are overseers. [Draft.]
June 9. Minute of the above. [Ent. Book 17, p. 191.]
June 9.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Farmers of Customs to deliver up to Edmund Warcup a note for 36l. 10s., which they required from him in satisfaction of customs on prize goods delivered by warrant from His Majesty. [Ent. Book 14, p. 99b.]
June 9.
Harwich hoy, Harwich.
67. Giles Bond to the Navy Comrs. Has delivered Mr. Pett's materials for Scotland on board the prize ship Franakin. [Adm. Paper.]
June 9.
London.
68. Capt. Wm. Dale to the Navy Comrs. Begs an order for his pay due in the Golden Lion, his present ship being ready to sail. [Adm. Paper.]
June 9.
Bristol.
69. John Knight, jun., to the Navy Comrs. Has paid the sailmaker 100l. in part of the St. Patrick's sails. New waste cloths and colours are wanted for the Pearl; when victualled and manned she will be ready for sea; wants money. Mr. Baylie should be told that his ship is not yet quite fitted according to agreement. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
69. i. List of 24 men employed by John Harris the King's sailmaker. 9 June, 1666.
June 9.
Bristol.
70. Dan. Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Carriages for timber come in so slowly that there is no telling when the new ship will be built; wishes he had never had to do with her. Gives the names of the justices in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Monmouthshire, to whom warrants for land carriage must be sent. [Adm. Paper.]
June 9. 71. Note of four ketches ordered to the Gunfleet, of which three are detained in the river, for want of dispatch from the victualler. The Loyal Katherine has brought in 100 wounded men. [Adm. Paper.]
June 10.
Portsmouth.
72. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. There are various reports of the battle. Asks for any news worth giving. Cannot find convenience for sending the canvas by water. Has dispatched nine ships to the Gunfleet. The tar is already unladen, so that the masters cannot complain of loss of time, or demand anything for demurrage; has been obliged to stow it away in various places. The poor labourers can get no credit on account of the distemper, and have to pawn the few things they possess to buy bread; everything is extremely dear at Portsmouth. [Adm. Paper, 2½ pages.]
June 10.
Sheerness.
73. Sir Wm. Penn to Sir Wm. Coventry. Is sorry Mr. Deane should forget to send up an account of the stores lacking at Harwich. Comr. Pett will report what is wanted at Sheerness. No time shall be lost in dispatching ships. The London might have been launched at the same time as the Woolwich frigate and Warspite, had his advice been taken. Men and boats will be wanted. [Adm. Paper, 2 pages.]
June 10. 74. Note, by John Tooker, of provisions supplied to six ketches and a hoy in the river. [Adm. Paper.]
June 11.
Newcastle.
75. Willm. Christian to Williamson. Got home safe with Williamson's brother, and they are labouring to get in arrears, which is no small trouble. Sends up a youth of 14, whom he recommends to him as page, and who will serve on what terms he pleases; his friends will fit him for service, if he may be received.
June 11. 76. Petition of Randal Oulton, mayor, and 42 other citizens of Chester, to the King, to appoint commissioners to take a view of their river, which though formerly navigable, has become so shallow, by the sea working its way into rivulets on the Welsh shore, that it will not bring up a vessel of 20 tons; also to encourage all expedients for removing obstructions. [Copy.]
June 11.
Whitehall.
77. Certificate by Edward De Carteret, that on warrant from Lord Chamberlain Manchester, he had admitted Jeremiah Houghton as keeper of the armory at Westminster, in place of Jas. Parker, deceased.
June 11. Warrant to Sir Thos. Clifford, commissioner for the sick and wounded, to liberate, at request of Ambassador D'Ognate, two prisoners in Chelsea College, dwellers in Flanders, and subjects of the King of Spain. [Ent. Book 23, p. 192.]
June 11. 78. Schedule of letters of credit for victuals granted to four ships at Dover, from March 24 to June 11, 1666. [Adm. Paper.]
June 11. 79. Demands by Comr. Peter Pett for stores for Chatham, Harwich, and the ships at the buoy of the Nore. [Adm. Papers, 2 pages.]
June 11.
Sheerness.
80. Sir Wm. Penn to Sam. Pepys. Will observe the directions about the victuallers when he goes to the fleet. Smacks are provided, so that none others need be sent down. Note of masts wanted; hopes they will be speedily sent down, with 100 workmen and an industrious foreman, for the buoy of the Nore. [Adm. Paper.]
June 11.
Bristol.
81. Dan. Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Acknowledges receipt of the warrants and 100l. The carpenter complains that Mr. Baylie is not performing his duty according to contract, upon the new ship; particulars of his neglect. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages.]
June 12. 82. Certificate, by Jacob Sanford and Robt. Ansell, master and boatswain of the Loyal Subject, of the loss of their boat, which was cut away and stolen by two men lately received from the Society. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Dover.
83. Thos. White to the Navy Comrs. Particulars of the unlading and repairs of the Young Lion; her guns and provisions are on board, and she has gone to her station. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Blackwall.
84. Hen. Johnson to Sam. Pepys. Has paid most of the men from Woolwich and Deptford; sends a list of 16 pressed men not yet disposed of Commends the bearer, Wm. Christmas, foremployment. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Ordnance Office.
85. Edw. Sherburne, Jonas Moore, and Fras. Nicholls to the Navy Comrs. Send the number, weight, and dimensions of the 50 guns designed for the new frigate building in the Forest of Dean, that the carriages may be in timely readiness. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Portsmouth.
86. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The Golden Lion is ready to sail; the captain desires a spare anchor of 18 cwt.; has refused to give it, as not customary in merchant ships; begs orders in the matter. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12. 87. Thos. Lloyd, clerk of the Prize Comrs., to the Navy Comrs. The Prize Comrs. have sent away an order for the delivery of the St. Jacob and Peace as fire-ships. Orders for the appointment of prize ships to carry Norway goods to Harwich cannot be made positive unless the names of the ships be specified. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Harwich.
88. Sir Wm. Batten to the Navy Comrs. Has begun to pay the ships. Intends taking a survey of the stores. The timber in the two prize ships landed as yet is pitiful. The plague is in the town, and three or four men sent sick from the Rupert have died of it; it spreads much in Woodbridge and Ipswich. Particulars of stores received for the new frigates; one will be launched in 14 days, the other in a month. The small vessel for Prince Rupert is nearly ready. A shallop of the enemy has approached almost within shot of the port, but was chased back again to the fleet. It is reported that De Ruyter is not in the fleet. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Plymouth.
89. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. The Victory prize is almost ready, but the supplies from the Ordnance Office are behind hand. [Adm. Paper.]
June 12.
Royal Charles, Buoy of the Nore.
90. Prince Rupert and the Duke of Albemarle to Lord Arlington. Recommend a person who offers to discover the loss sustained by the Dutch fleet in the late action, having been formerly employed on like business.
June 12. 91. List of 38 ships, with their captains' names, and the stations whence they are removed, with the names of the admirals and viceadmirals of the Red, White, and Blue squadrons. Endorsed with notes of alterations in the commanders. [1¾ pages.]
June 12.
Royal Charles.
92. Duke of Albemarle to Lord Arlington. Wants a commission for Mat. Locke, long one of his secretaries, and well versed in army business, to be secretary at war in place of Sir William Clarke.
June 12.
Whitehall.
93. The King to the Earl of Exeter, [Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire]. Recommends him to promote within the county subscriptions of money, to be repaid with interest from the sums to be raised on the late Act for raising 1,250,000l. in two years. [2 pages.]
June 12.
Whitehall.
94. The King to the Earl of Peterborough, [Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire,] to the same effect. [2 pages.]
June 12.
Whitehall.
95. [Lord Arlington] to Sir Fras. Cobb, high sheriff of Yorkshire. Thanks for his endeavours to persuade the county that the way of loan is better than that of advance. Hopes better success at the meeting on the 14th. The present juncture should encourage persons to go beyond themselves. The advances upon the tax would not supply a penny beyond paying what is already charged on the Act. The Lord Treasurer's letters were drawn before it was foreseen that the loan would take so well, in which case advances would have been of use, but now they are of none at all, and his lordship has sent to his own lieutenancies the same printed papers as are enclosed, to advance money by loans. For satisfaction of lenders, there is daily posted up on the Exchequer, how far the Act is charged and how much is repaid, and 350,000l. remains uncharged, so that there is plentiful security for lenders. If all do not consent to loans, begs that some will begin, for if none had paid in other counties till all were willing, not a penny would have been paid. [2 pages.]
June 13.
Tower.
96. W. Boteler to Lord Arlington. Intrudes upon him with thanks for favours and assurances that he tries to do his duty to government, as bound by the Act of Indemnity, and by his lordship's indulgence shown when he was with him the year before, and confessed all he knew about the company frequenting an inn at Gray's Inn Lane. Would not offend, as his family's livelihood depends on his liberty; cannot in all things conform to the Church of England, but can show that his non-conformity is from conscience, not faction; would not transgress law, and is sure King and Council would not let him be imprisoned longer than law requires; has been immured 10 months, guiltless of any plot against King or government; is undone in law practice and reputation, and his estate will not now pay his debts by 100l.; his wife and five children must starve, unless he have his liberty or some allowance; begs enforcement of a former order to the Lieutenant of the Tower, that he may have the King's maintenance, so as to satisfy his keeper. [1½ pages.]
June 13. Grant to the Queen-Mother of 700l., being three and a halfyears' arrears of the rent reserved to the Crown, on a lease made to the daughters of the late Earl of Monmouth, of Rudfen Manor, co. Warwick. [Docquet.]
June 13. Warrant to repay to Lord Arlington 2,000l. expended by him, on the King's secret service, without account. [Docquet.]
June [13 ?] 97. Geo. Pley, jun., to the Navy Comrs. Requests immediate payment of money due for canvas delivered into the stores at Portsmouth last April, and permission to load the vessel with leather, bird shot, &c., and bring back another load of hemp and sail-cloth; asks for a passport, and somewhat more per ell for the canvas than before, owing to the great charge incurred in freeing his vessel, taken by the French West India Company, and detained at Rochelle. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
97. i. Geo. Chureley to Geo. Pley. The canvas ship is safely arrived from Rochelle; reminds him of his promise to reserve 50 bales of Vittery for Wm. Stephens.
Weymouth, June 13.
June 13. 98. Capt. Rich. Kingdon, commissioner for prizes, to Sam. Pepys. Does not know what ships are intended, because the masters' names are not expressed; supposes the St. Jacob to be of Bourdeaux, and the Peace to be one of two ships lately sold and delivered. [Adm. Paper.]
June 13.
Tilbury Swale.
99. Capt. Anthony Langston, of the Unicorn, to Lord Brouncker, at his house in the Piazza, Covent Garden. Has spent 18l. 10s. in pressing men for the Vanguard; begs that it may be repaid. [Adm. Paper.]
June 13.
Dover.
100. Thos. White to the Navy Comrs. Has yet in store 48 reels of French yarn, which will spoil by lying all the winter; proposes to have it out in the air, shake the sand out, and tar it all over to preserve it; a mainmast and yard are wanted for the Drake, all there being too large. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
Ordnance Office.
101. Edw. Sherburne, Rich. Marsh, and Jonas Moore to the Navy Comrs. The Loyal Subject has arrived at Long Reach, but is very much shattered; ask whether she will be made serviceable for sea again, or whether her guns may be applied to some other ships. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
Custom House, London.
102. Sir John Worstenholme, Sir John Shaw, and J. Harrison, Customs' Comrs., to Lord Brouncker. The receipts of the port of Bristol are very low and are overcharged, so that it is impossible to furnish Sir John Knight with 1,000l. out of the collections there. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
Prize Office.
103. Capt. Rich. Kingdon, George Clifford, and Hen. Rumbold, Prize Comrs., to Lord Brouncker. Ask where to deliver the goods out of the prize ships now at Harwich. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
Portsmouth.
104. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Has two waggons laden with canvas ready to send off; the pressed shipwrights are discharged; it is the poor sawyers who have not received their wages; all the workmen are in great want, owing to the failing of the markets, and the distemper in the town; the unlading of the tar ships has retarded the receipt of timber. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
104. i. Petition of the Sawyers of Portsmouth yard to the Navy Comrs., for payment of their wages, being heartily sorry for past misdemeanors, and driven to great necessities.
June 14.
The Mary.
105. Certificate by Sir Jer. Smyth, to the Navy Comrs., of John Bishop, surgeon, having served on board the Mary since Oct. 18, 1664, without receiving any allowance for recruiting his medicine chest. With note from George Solby, June 25, for Bishop to have his money paid. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
Victualling Office.
106. Certificate, by Thos. Lewis, of accounts passed at the Victualling Office by John Chudleigh, late purser of the Satisfaction. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14.
The George, Buoy of the Nore.
107. Capt. Ralph Lashells to the Navy Comrs. The mainyard of the ship is broken and cannot be made serviceable. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14. 108. Capt. Rich. Kingdon to Sam. Pepys. The prize ships Hope of Bayonne at Dover and Blue Boar at Harwich are suitable for fire-ships. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14. 109. Certificate by Capt. Hen. Dawes that Andrew Hobbs was master of the John and Thomas under his command for 16 months, and discharged his duties very satisfactorily, and in several engagements with the Dutch behaved himself very stoutly. [Adm. Paper.]
June 14. 110. Petition of William Boteler, prisoner in the Tower, to the King, for release on bail from his 10 months' imprisonment, or for some maintenance for himself and family who are starving.
June 14. 111. Petition of Elinor Withers and Joan Halsnorth to the King, for settlement of the pensions of 50l. each, conferred on them for their services at Col. Fras. Wyndham's at Trent, co. Somerset, after the battle of Worcester; have received 100l. each, assigned to them as a gift.
June 14. 112. Sir W. Coventry to Williamson. Will try to procure the press warrant, when instructed in whose name it is desired, but does not often find such large pretences to procure men come to anything. Sometimes the Duke's warrant has been abused to make profit, by pressing men and then discharging them.
June 14. 113. Account by Theodore Goodwin and Gregory Thorndale of "the accident and misfortune of George Gery, as to the death of James Cliffe, happening the 22nd day of October, 1663." Gery invited Cliffe and other gentlemen to dinner, after which they went to the Rose Tavern to drink, when Gery and Cliffe disputing about a chance in play, Cliffe, gave the lie to Gery, who being a commissioned officer in the Guards, thought it unhandsome to receive it, and struck him with a stick, which Cliffe seized; Gery then drew upon him; Thorndale would not let him use his sword, but Cliffe rushing upon Gery in a rage, was accidentally wounded, refused to go to a surgeon, and for want of care, died shortly after.