Charles II: July 16-20, 1683

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1683 July-September. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1934.

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'Charles II: July 16-20, 1683', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1683 July-September, (London, 1934) pp. 130-177. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1683-jul-sep/pp130-177 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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July 16-20, 1683

July 19.
Westminster.
The King to [the Dean and Chapter of York]. Recommending Dr. John Dolben, Bishop of Rochester, to be elected by them to the Archbishopric of York, void by the death of Dr. Richard Sterne, the late Archbishop. (Out of place.) [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 11, p. 182.]
July 16. Lord Russell to the Duke of York. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 687, note.) [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 174.]
July 16. Francis Strutt to Secretary Jenkins. Since my discharge from attending the sessions I have searched after Westlake, the lawyer. All that I can gather (which I have from John Bernard, Esq.), is that Mr. Malien of Elm Court knows where he is and sends people to him but denies him to me or any that I have employed. [Ibid. No. 175.]
July 16. George Ryves to Secretary Jenkins. Christopher Battiscombe was taken last Saturday at Dorchester and committed to the county gaol, where he expects your commands. I hope mine of Saturday last came safe. [Ibid. No. 176.]
July 16.
Taunton.
Stephen Timewell to Secretary Jenkins. Desiring to know whether his Majesty will have the rioters at the riot of 11 May last proceeded against at the next assizes.—The deputy lieutenants met here lately and searched for arms but, not finding so great a quantity as they expected, gave me a warrant to search for arms in houses and places I suspected and another order that all within this corporation should bring me in their arms within 9 days and that defaulters should be proceeded against with severity. I caused the last order to be proclaimed and it produced some good effects, for several brought in their arms. On the first order I searched and found several arms. (About the search by Sir W. Portman and Sir F. Warre and the pulling down of the meeting-house as in their letter calendared ante, p. 75.) To-day our church was so full that I have not known the like these many years except in assize time, so I presume they will not attempt to meet more. I shall be careful to watch them. [Ibid. No. 177.]
July 16.
Exeter.
Endymion Walker, Mayor, and 5 others to Secretary Jenkins. Owen Callaghan and Morthaugh Downing [sic] landed at Topsham. They say they came from Waterford and offered to make their informations of some things of moment concerning the lately discovered plot. Their informations taken to-day on oath are enclosed, which they drew up and signed themselves. We also send another information given by one of them, who desired it might be sent with the other. They are on their journey to London. [Ibid. No. 178.]
July 16. Francis Fullwood to Secretary Jenkins. We examined John Curtis of Topsham, the master of the ship, and his servant in the presence of the Bishop of Exeter about the things they are concerned in in the informations. The master swears he knows nothing of any letters Tristram brought from Ireland and that he knew not when Tristram went out of the ship. He never told these Irishmen that they could not have passage in his ship without Capt. Seymour's leave. His only reason for refusing to take them was because he would take in no more passengers. His servant confesses that Tristram told him he had letters or a letter for Sir Edward Seymour from his son, Capt. Seymour, also that he went out of the ship into the pilot's boat and went ashore on the east side of the river and said he was to deliver something to a gentleman thereabouts and then hasten to Sir Edward Seymour's house, but he never heard him speak of any other letters he had either for Sir William Courtney or any squire. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 178. On same sheet as the last.] Enclosed,
July 16. The information on oath of Owen O'Callaghan of Mullaghard, co. Limerick. In Waterford, 2 July [altered from June], I asked John Curtis for a passage in his ship to Topsham. He answered he would carry no passenger but what Capt. Seymour gave leave to. I went to Capt. Seymour at a meeting-house, where he was with more in his company consulting and sealing and packetting letters. One packet I saw was for Limerick and another for England. They were talking of the news from England and specially of the Duke of Monmouth, Lord Grey, Sir T. Armstrong and 8 more, and how they were put to trouble by means of the Duke of York and the Duke of Ormonde. Capt. Seymour stood up and said he expected to see the Duke of Monmouth very soon have as large power as ever Cromwell had. All the company took off their hats, then Capt. Seymour in a passion said again that, while the last drop of his blood held out, he was for the Duke of Monmouth in spite of his enemies, which he knew the Duke of Ormonde was the inventer of all to King and Council and that he was a very wise man and much in regard by his Majesty and Council. Then he called for Tristram, one of his soldiers, and told the company he would send one of his soldiers to England who was to be trusted with one of those packets, and desired him to bring back a speedy answer for Ireland. Then he told the company that the Lord Deputy was coming to see the seaports of Ireland, as he mistrusted to no good, and that the Duke of Ormonde was a wise man, though not so true to the Parliament. Then the company broke up and left the charge of those papers to Capt. Seymour. All this while they took no notice of me. Next morning I went 5 miles to Passage discoursing with the soldier, who told me he was bound for Devonshire. I said to him, These are troublesome times and all through the means of the Duke of York. Said he, Very soon you shall hear better news, for a provision is made that will settle all the nation. He asked, did I know Sir William Courtenay. Very well, said I. Then, said he, see what papers I have for him and, as I take it, for several other squires in England, Capt. Seymour's father among them. I had taken away his papers, but was afraid. I waited on the soldier to the ship and durst not speak a word to him, being his master was captain of that seaport. Those papers came to Sir W. Courtenay and other squires contriving plots against his Majesty. The master and some of his men saw those letters. I am sure he was privy to them, otherwise he had not landed this man afore the water-bailiff or the waiter had come. He had brought this man and his papers before the Mayor of Exeter or the next Justice, had he been true to his King, but he landed him a great way beyond the harbour mouth, as the vessel men told me, where none has been landed for many years before. I saw a letter of Sir W. Courtenay read in this meeting-place by Capt. Seymour, wherein he mentioned that they would make their business without the King or Council or any that took their part to vindicate the Duke of Monmouth. Three days after this ship went away I took shipping for England and landed at Topsham and inquired for this vessel, thinking to seize the soldier, but he went to Sir W. Courtenay's and the other squires' houses. The master of the ship can declare this and more. They have a design against his Majesty and the Royal Family. This and more I have to prove before his Majesty and the Council. I am in hazard of my life in declaring this. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 178 I.]
July 14. The information on oath of Morthough Downey. At Waterford, 2 June [sic], I asked John Curtis, who was bound for England, for a passage to Apsum (Topsham), who answered he would carry none without Capt. Seymour's leave. I found Capt. Seymour at a meeting-house, where he and abundance more were sealing letters and discoursing how the Duke of Monmouth and several others were put to trouble by means of the Duke of York and the Duke of Ormonde, and reading the last news from England said, they never intended a design but it was discovered. Said Capt. Seymour, I hope to see the day that the Duke of Monmouth will have as much power as ever Cromwell had. Then all the rest pulled off their hats to pray for it. Said the captain, The Duke of York shall never have the Crown till this, meaning himself, has lost the last drop of his blood. He gave a letter he was reading to a great man by him and said that was the letter he received from Sir William Courtenay. He gave a soldier a packet of letters and desired him to bring a speedy answer back for Ireland. Capt. Seymour told the company that the Lord Deputy was coming for Munster to see the seaports. Another packet was sent to Limerick. Next morning I went with the soldier to Passage and he told me he was bound for England and said, These are troublesome times and all through the Duke of York, but very soon you will hear better news, for provision is made that will settle all these nations, and showed me a great packet of papers for Sir William Courtenay and several others of that shire about a plot against his Majesty, naming Capt. Seymour's father. This and many more matters of importance I have to declare before his Majesty in Council. [1¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 178 ii.]
Another copy of Downey's information (not sworn) adding, after "Capt. Seymour's father," Capt. Seymour was the only man to send away those packets and this soldier is in this shire to wait an answer. The soldier told me they were to contrive against his Majesty to help the Duke of Monmouth to have the Crown very speedily. [Ibid. No. 179.]
[July.] Owen Callaghan and Morthough Downey to the Justices of Assizes for the circuit. Petition stating that they have lately given information to the Mayor of Exeter of a horrid wicked design against his Majesty and his Royal Highness and are now bound for London without means, and begging them to order the Treasurer or the Sheriff to help them in their journey. [Ibid. No. 180.]
July 16.
Bawnton near Cirencester.
James Georges to Secretary Jenkins. I lately wrote to the Duke of Beaufort to Chelsea and to-day I understand he is at Bath. I therefore trouble you with the copy of it and of the informations enclosed therein. [Ibid. No. 181.]
July 16.
Kelston.
John Harington to Secretary Jenkins. Mr. Saywell came to me about seizing Mr. Harrington of Marshfield and he has made search for him there, but I understand he has been out of the way and has not been seen in these parts since the messenger came for Mr. Sheppard, whom I delivered to him. I will endeavour to secure Harrington, if he appears in these parts, and wish I had known your commands that I might have secured him the same time as the other. [Ibid. No. 182.]
July 16. John Newton, John Meredith and William Player, Justices, to Secretary Jenkins. Mr. Saywell has shown us your warrant for apprehending John Harrington and, finding him fled from his usual abode, has desired us to seize him by our warrant, if he appear again, which warrant we have issued and, if he be apprehended, shall give you notice, and secure him till further order. [Ibid. No. 183.] Enclosed,
Copy of the above-mentioned warrant of the Justices. [Ibid. No. 183 I.]
July 16.
Marcle. [Herefordshire.]
R. Wallwyn to Thomas Prise, Scotland Yard. Since the breaking out of this plot Edward Rogers, a most dangerous Nonconformist priest, came down to these parts and has been lurking and preaching about the country above these two months and is lately slunk away. He was formerly beneficed at Preston, the next parish to this, and suddenly, for what reason no one knows, resigned his parsonage and has ever since become a house preacher in and about London. He now or very lately lives at Hillington's Green between Lambeth and Southwark. Richard Watts, a watchmaker, living next door to the Golden Lion, Fenchurch Street, a very honest and loyal young man and my godson, knows Rogers and where he may be found, if in London. You would do well to inquire after him, for he is very much suspected to have knowledge of this plot. He is an intimate acquaintance of that rascal, Paul Foley, and has been with him several times since he came last into the country. Send me word if he is not to be heard of about London and I will chase him, if he be hereabouts, for I know of no concerns he has in these parts, unless to poison the people with rebellious principles. If you think it convenient, send me down a warrant for apprehending him. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 184.]
July 16.
Belvoir.
The Earl of Rutland to Secretary Jenkins. I received yours of the 10th and his Majesty's commands enclosed and in obedience thereto sent Lord Beaumont and Lord Sherard, two of my deputy lieutenants, to search the Earl of Stamford's house for arms and here enclose an exact account of them and of all other arms I had before ordered the deputy lieutenants and militia officers to take away since yours of 23 June, but it is the opinion of all of them that the ill-affected party had private notice of it from London before my letter came, because several in the county, that were known to be very well provided of arms before, had but very few found in their houses. We have searched all the suspicious persons throughout this county and I have the officers and soldiers in so good order that I can have them ready at an hour's warning. I desire his Majesty may know that I keep either a troop of horse or a foot company on duty two days every week and shall do so for 8 or 9 weeks together if I have his approbation. If not, pray signify his pleasure to me. I will be very vigilant in observing their ill motions. [Ibid. No. 185.]
July 16.
Londesbrough.
The Earl of Burlington to Secretary Jenkins. All his Majesty's commands in your letter of the 10th I shall punctually obey and the method therein prescribed for searching and disarming all dangerous persons shall be observed and the power by law given us in the search for and securing of arms extended to its utmost limits, about which the deputy lieutenants have now for many days been very busy and continue to be so, for the great extent of this Riding will not permit us to make so speedy a dispatch as in a lesser county. I have sent repeated orders to the militia officers to be in a readiness to march on the first commands, which I doubt not they will be, and, as soon as I shall have an account from the deputy lieutenants of what is done about the seizing of arms, which I suddenly expect, I shall transmit it. [Ibid. No. 186.]
July 16.
Scarborough.
J. Bromley to the Commissioners of the Customs. The 26th two gentlemen were privately conveyed on board the Elizabeth of this port, Peter Posgate master, for Rotterdam. I was then at Hull, passing my accounts. The persons that procured their passage are since discovered and secured by the magistrates and confessed one to be Richard Nelthorpe; the other is supposed to be Goodenough, who were, I am informed, mentioned in the proclamation, which I never yet saw, neither came it to the magistrates here, who have sent an express with their depositions to the Secretary of State yesterday. The said vessel is arrived here from Rotterdam. The master confessed he carried over two passengers but was altogether ignorant what they were. I was with him before the bayliffs and he was committed to prison, on which I secured his vessel till further order. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 187.]
July 16.
Scarborough.
William Cayley to Lord Dartmouth. On notice last night that the master of the ship that conveyed Nelthorpe and his companion to Holland, Mr. Hutchinson, Mr. Knowsley and myself attended the bayliffs of Scarborough to take the enclosed examinations, which were partly, but very slightly, done by them before we came. I shall not make any remarks about the bayliffs, Mr. Knowsley having done it very well, I think, in his letter by this post to Sir Thomas Slingsby, but in the main I find great cause to suspect them and that they have a greater design to serve their friends herein than to pay their duty to his Majesty. [Ibid. No. 188.] Enclosed,
The examination of Elizabeth Posgate. Mr. Stephen Thompson sent for her to his house and asked if her son designed for Holland. She told him he intended to go thither. Then he desired her to send up her son to him, but, he going not suddenly, he sent again. The first time she went, he desired that her son might carry a friend of his to Holland, who had moneys owing there and durst not show himself in England. Cornelius Moone went with her to the cliff, and, when they were in the cobble, waved his hat at them. [Ibid. No. 188 i.]
The examination of Peter Posgate. About 9, 27 June last, his mother informed him that Stephen Thompson had sent twice to her to speak with the deponent. He went immediately to his house, where he found him and his wife and Cornelius Moone, and then Thompson desired him to give two gentlemen passage for Holland and to be kind to them and they would content him for their passage. Then Thompson desired him to order his ship's cobble to come privately on the back of the Castle to take them in and pretended they were in debt and forced to abscond and afraid to come to the public place, where boats usually go from, as they were afraid to meet the Marquess of Winchester's servants, because they were indebted to him. The deponent ordered the cobble to go accordingly and went on board with them about 12 the same day. He delivered them safely at Rotterdam and they gave him 5l. for their passage, which he thought too much and proffered them 3l. back, but they would not receive it but thought it well bestowed for their safe passage. The day after they were arrived at Rotterdam, coming from the church, a Bristol merchant living there challenged one of them, the taller and light-haired, something short and called him Mr. Ward, pretending they were school fellows at Bristol and that he was bred an attorney. At that time the deponent heard nothing of any plot or of any proclamation for apprehending persons. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 188 ii.]
July 16.
Scarborough.
Timothy Wood and Nicholas Saunders, bayliffs, to Secretary Jenkins. Sending the depositions of Peter and Elizabeth Posgate. [Ibid. No. 189.] Enclosed,
Other copies of the said depositions with one or two verbal differences from those above calendared. [Ibid. Nos. 189 i, ii.]
Another copy of each of the above depositions. [Ibid. Nos. 190, 191.]
July 16.
Durham Castle.
The Bishop of Durham to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing an inventory signed by the muster-master of all the arms lately seized within that county. [Ibid. No. 192.]
July 16. — to Sir Henry Capel. On perusing the Coroner's inquest printed to-day about my Lord of Essex there are such material differences between the informations of Bomeny and Russell that it makes many people apprehend that, if that matter might suddenly be thoroughly sifted, it is probable a great deal of villainy might appear. If the steward would recollect what day he sent the penknife and the footman what day he delivered it to Bomeny, it would clear up Bomeny's deposition a little better to people's understanding, which is much obscured by confounding Friday morning with Thursday's business, for, as that deposition is penned, I cannot find my lord used either the razor or penknife after Thursday morning and then Russell is false, who fixes it on Friday; and Bomeny is short in giving an account how my lord came by the razor again on Friday, since he pared his nails with it on Thursday before the penknife came. Besides, the shutting and opening the door and the manner of discovering my lord is so contradictory and very odd between them that it alone looks very suspicious. I could wish therefore some further inquiries may be made both to satisfy the public and vindicate the honour of that noble lord, for what is published seems not to be done with much care. [Ibid. No. 193.]
July 16. Frances Tylldesley to her son Thomas, at the Red Lion, Holborn. I received yours with the great news, which was confirmed in several letters. Pray God bless the King and Duke from their bloody designs, for their malice daily increases as we may well guess by their endeavouring to kill the King, since the conspiracy was discovered. I hope God will continue His mercy to him and that he will have just reason to know who have been his true friends and loyal subjects.
Last Friday a man came to the Roke house in Cheshire and, the ferryboat not going as soon as he would, took a cock boat and came over to Liverpool and went to Fisher's and asked what ship was first bound for Ireland and was told Secill's. He sent for the owner and asked when he would go. He told him, it would be a day or two before he would be ready, on which the man offered him 10 guineas to go out that night. Secill was well pleased and went to make his ship ready, but in the meantime the ferryman came over with his horse, and suspecting him by his leaving his house in that manner acquainted the Mayor, Capt. Tarleton, who immediately secured him and found on him 8 pistols, some of which would shoot twice, and 73 guineas, besides good store of silver. He gives himself the name of Webe. He was in the sergeant's hands last Saturday and his horse sent to an inn. He, I was told, was very busy writing letters, as they say perfect nonsense, but I believe characters which these loggerheads take for nonsense. You may credit this, for Nicholas Renet saw both the man and horse and had this relation from the sergeant that took him. There is also a report of another taken at Liverpool. Lord Derby and the High Sheriff, who will both be at Liverpool to-day, will make a further examination of it. It is thought he is one of those the proclamation is out for. [2 pages. S.P. Dom. Car. II. 428, No. 194.]
July 16. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Present, his Majesty, the Lord Keeper, the Lord President, the Lord Privy Seal, the Earls of Sunderland and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. Mr. Forrester called in. Sent down 50 muskets about 3 years ago on account of the Popish plot, some to his father's house, some to Mr. Leeke's, because his house was to be new built. Gave no directions for hiding them. Heard Sir V. Corbet say he would provide 100 muskets and Sir T. Vernon the same. Forrester to give two sureties to keep the peace in 2,000l. each and 4,000l. bond himself, the deputy lieutenants to do the same to his father.
Letter from Lord Perth about some prisoners read.
The oath of allegiance to be tendered the Scotch pedlars. Those that refuse to take it to be kept in custody till the next sessions and the others till information come from Scotland. Whether Scotchmen may be sent to be punished in Scotland.
Major Braman called in. Says he knows of no design against the King or government nor rising nor of arms. Warrant to carry him to the Tower for high treason.
Sir P. Lloyd to deliver the papers of Lord Essex to Lord Clarendon.
Peter Ferguson called in. Says he is a plaisterer and no kin to Ferguson. Discharged without fees.
Lacy, under-housekeeper of Audley End, to be sent for.
H. Cotton called in for harbouring Norton. Says he lay at his house a month. Knew his name was Norton. Mr. Packer told him that Norton was under a surgeon's hand a fortnight ago. He then lodged near Shear Lane. Cotton to be kept close in the messenger's hand.
Harding, the waterman, to be brought to-morrow afternoon. [Over 2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II 428, No. 60, p. 28.]
Other minutes of the above proceedings. [Ibid. No. 195.]
July 16.
Council Chamber.
The examination of Thomas Campbell. He was born in Niddesdale. Is about 22. Has been a chapman 6 years. Came from Scotland about 6 years ago. Has been in and about London ever since. Was going home to see his friends. Began his journey Wednesday fortnight. Knew Hepburne for 6 weeks before he began his journey. Supposes him a preacher, for he has heard him preach in a house in London but cannot say where. Says he understands not the Covenant, but has read it, yet refuses to answer positively whether he thinks himself obliged by it or no. Asked whether he would take the oath of allegiance, desired to advise about it first. Bought his horse of his landlord and his sword and pistols in Long Lane. Asked what he thought of the rebellion at Bothwell Bridge, says he believes it to be a rebellion. Knows not Ferguson, but has seen Carstaires and heard him preach.
The examination of John Spratt. Is a chapman. Has been in England since May, 1674. Was going home to see his friends. Has known Hepburne for 6 weeks before they began their journey. Has heard him preach in a house, but knows not where. Had a sword and pistol when he travelled. The pistol was given him by Hepburne. The sword and belt he bought. Is willing to take the oaths of allegiance and supremacy. Asked if he thought himself obliged by the Covenant, says he could not tell. Believes the killing of the Archbishop of St. Andrews a murder. Bought his horse in Smithfield 4 days before he went. Offers his oath that he never heard of any rising in Scotland. Is ready to give security for his appearance. Prays his horse may be restored.
The examination of William Stewart. Is of Galloway. Has been in England about 9 years. Was going to see his friends. Bought a case of pistols and a sword about 4 days before he went. Can't read or write. Knows not Hepburn but a fortnight before he left heard him preach in a conventicle. Never heard the Covenant read. Believes the Archbishop of St. Andrews to have been murdered. Thought the rising at Bothwell Bridge unlawful. Has always travelled with a horse.
The examination of John Cooke. Is a Scotchman. Has been in England 5 years. Was going to see his friends in Scotland. Bought a case of pistols and a sword not long before he went in the Minories. Knew Hepburn for about 2 months. Has heard him preach, not in a church. Never read the Covenant, but may have heard it read, but understands it not. Owns the rising at Bothwell Bridge to have been a rebellion and that the Archbishop of St. Andrews was murdered. Is willing to take the oath of allegiance and owns his Majesty to be his lawful king, and that it is unlawful to rise in arms against him. Knows not Ferguson, but has seen Carstaires about a quarter of a year since.
The examination of Robert Wilson. Is a Scotchman. Has been about town 3 years. Is a chapman. Was going to see his friends. Had a case of pistols and a sword and belt only to defend himself from robbery. John Cooke bought the pistols for him, the sword and belt he bought himself. May have read the Covenant but knows not how far he is obliged thereby. Denies having been at the rebellion at Bothwell Bridge. Knows not where he was then, but was then in Scotland. Refuses to answer how far he is obliged by the Covenant and knows not whether it was a rebellion at Bothwell Bridge or no. Knows not whether killing the Archbishop of St. Andrews was a murder or no. Asked if he would take the oath of allegiance and particularly whether he would own the King to be lawful king, said he could not tell what to answer, but knew nothing to the contrary. Knows not Ferguson, but knows Carstaires and has seen him but refuses to tell where, but thinks he has not done it these 3 months.
They all disown any knowledge of a rising or conspiracy.
The examination of Mr. Carter in Newgate Street, linen-draper, with Bigland, Procter and Polsted, his friends. They know Campbell and Carter has dealt with him since 1678 and believes he has been in England ever since and some time before. Knows Spratt. Has dealt with him ever since April, 1679, and believes he has been in England since then. They know not John Hepburne. Knows Stewart. Have dealt with him ever since 1678. Have known Cooke ever since Aug., 1679. They have known Wilson ever since Sept., 1680. They say Mr. Stewart is out of town. They said they durst be bound for them and Carter in particular said he would be bound for them and had 100l. of the moneys of one of them now in his hands. [4 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 196.]
July 16. The information on oath of Thomas Lea and N. Phesant, messenger. Ely Harding, waterman, declared before us that he was willing to assist and seize the King and the Duke of York and to meet us to consult further about it, notwithstanding the plot was already discovered. [Ibid. No. 197.]
July 16. The information on oath of Joane Tackbread. (In the same words as her information calendared ante, p. 77.) [Ibid. No. 198.]
July 16. The informations on oath of Henry Gibbs and Matthew Savadge of Oxhill, Warwickshire. Relating conversations with Daniel Blackford about arms at Mr. Mariett's house, as more fully appears by Blackford's and Tennant's informations of the 17th, calendared post, p. 147. [Ibid. No. 199.]
July 16. The information on oath of John Platts, innkeeper at Rotherham. James Johnson first came to his house about May Day last for only two nights. He said nothing of his going to London not did he hear him mention English or Scotch conspiracies. He came afterwards to his house and conversed with several Scotchmen that lay there. He has one room with 6 beds, where he used to herd all such Scots as came to his house. They used to be private and always prayed together before they went to bed, the said Gibson alias Johnson being the speaker.
The information on oath of John Yourd, dealer in Scotch cloth. Has traded about a year in England. Was not at Bothwell Bridge nor conceives it lawful to take up arms against the King, so long as he rules according to the glory of God. Was with James Johnson once near Lancaster and once at Platts' house. Has joined with him in prayer and heard him pray that God would convert the King. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 200.]
[July ? 16.] The Earl of Bedford to the King. Petition. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 686 note.) [Ibid. No. 201.]
[July ? 16.] William, Lord Russell to the King. Petition. "Your petitioner lying under the sentence of death for the heinous crime of high treason is not more afflicted with the terrors thereof than with the sense of your Majesty's heavy displeasure and . . most solemnly protests upon the word of a dying man that he never had any intention or thought of doing hurt to your sacred person, however by interpretation of law 'tis imputed to him, and, if your Majesty be pleased to execute the rigour of the law upon him, he hopes God will enable him most patiently to submit and dying shall most heartily pray for your long life and prosperous reign, but, considering how many instances there are of your boundless compassion, he most humbly lays himself at your feet and implores your mercy and pardon, which if your Majesty be pleased to extend to him, he shall employ the remainder of his days in all fidelity to your Majesty and in all manner of humble observances and grateful acknowledgments. " [Ibid. No. 202.]
[July ? 16.] Rachel, Lady Russell to the King. Petition. "Your petitioner not knowing whether your Majesty heard the humble suit made to you this morning once more casts herself at your feet, for having been hitherto wholly employed in her care for the preservation of her husband, she has not had those opportunities nor that freedom in her thoughts for asking and receiving his directions in the concerns of herself and her children. May it therefore please your Majesty to remember her father's fidelity to your Majesty and your royal father of blessed memory as out of your princely goodness and compassion to your afflicted petitioner to allow some few days before the execution of the sentence and, this being a grace so commonly granted, your petitioner cannot doubt your Majesty's goodness in so necessary a desire. " [Ibid. No. 203.]
[July ? 16.] John Walcott to the King. Petition for a reprieve to his father, Thomas Walcott, who has received sentence of death for his treason, hoping that he may by his sincerity to his Majesty's service merit better. [Ibid. No. 204.]
July 16.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Mr. Graham. I have several things in command from his Majesty to speak to you about and therefore desire you to call on me as soon as you can. The main are, that you take care to have West removed to the Marshalsea and that the trials be published in due time but that care be used to correct them and they be overseen by those whom it belongs to. These two points being secured, you need not come hither till your occasions call you. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 333.]
July 16.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Duke of Somerset. His Majesty's service requiring at this time that your deputy lieutenants and officers of the militia in Somerset be in all readiness for action, I am commanded to desire you to cause your own commission to be forwarded all that is possible at the seals and also to have commissions for your deputy lieutenants and colonels of regiments ready to be sent away by express as soon as your commission is past the seals. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 69, p. 52.]
July 16.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Attorney General for causing a nolle prosequi to be entered on an information brought by Joseph Hindman, citizen of London, against Edward Kinaston, Sir Richard Matthews, Thomas Waldegrave, Nathaniel Wiltshire, Sir John Wedell and George Wymarke for a riot and assault in Michaelmas term, 1681, on which he obtained a verdict and judgment against them. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 17.]
[Before July 17.] Sarah, wife of Andrew Barber of Wapping, instrument maker for chirurgeons, to the King and the Privy Council. Petition for the release of her husband on bail, he having been committed to a messenger's custody on some information and having declared all he knows concerning the same and being ready to attend when required, she and her 5 children having no dependence except his trade and being like to starve. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 1.]
Similar petition, not a duplicate. [Ibid. No. 2.]
Similar petition addressed to the King only. [Ibid. No. 3.]
[Before July 17.] Sarah Barber to Secretary Jenkins. Requesting him to be mindful of her late petition and to move his Majesty to grant her request. [Ibid. No. 4.]
[Before July 17.] Algernon Sidney to the King. Petition stating that since his imprisonment persons pretending, as he conceives, an order from his Majesty have seized several bills of exchange in the hands of Thomas Shepheard, merchant, and also his horses with all the money and goods in his house, and that, none of his friends or domestics being suffered to come to him, he knows not what spoil they make, and therefore praying that his goods and bills be restored and his domestics suffered to come to him about his private affairs. [Ibid. No. 5.]
[Before July 17.] Memorandum that Joseph Ducasse of Nerac, Guienne, has been Col. Algernon Sidney's servant this year and used to take care of the affairs of his house. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 6.]
July 17.
[Read.]
Michael Ernle to the King. Petition stating that Sir Robert Mason, one of the executors of Thomas Hussey, with the other executors took up on their bonds 10,000l. to pay the debts and incumbrances of Hussey's estate, that, Sir Robert dying, John Wildman, to whom the bonds were assigned, obtained judgment on them against Sir Robert's executors of his goods, and that on the executors' deaths the petitioner had administration with the will annexed and has paid Wildman near 6,000l., being much more than the assets, and was to have had a discharge thereof, but, before the writings were sealed, Wildman was imprisoned, and therefore praying that the petitioner and his lawyer may have access to the said Wildman to agree on the method and for the sealing of the necessary writings. Endorsed, Granted, provided a warder be always present. [Ibid. No. 7.]
July 17.
Custom House, London.
Richard Boys to Secretary Jenkins. Being commanded by the Commissioners of the Customs, I have been on the search for the Hare dogger from Chichester, Robert Lock master, who was reported to have carried Lord Grey and others beyond the seas. About 4 p.m. on the 16th I met with her and was told by two men on board there was neither master nor men on board. They said they belonged to the next pink. I laid hold on one, the other ran away but was taken. I brought them and two others before Justice Osborne. One of them acquainted him that the 5 men that brought the vessel to anchor near Wapping took their chests and bedding and left the ship, saying that was all they were like to have for their voyage. I went on board the pink that lay next the Hare dogger at about 11 and stayed till daybreak, expecting some of the ship's company might come on board, but none came. Then I searched a house where I heard the master used to lodge and inquired at several others but could not find him. I left some men on the Hare dogger to stop any that should come for the goods on board. They brought me two persons, one the consigner of the goods, the other the brother of the person that freighted the wood. I brought them before the commissioners, who ordered me to have them before you, which I did. Hunt, the owner of the goods, produced a letter from Robert Lock with his cocquet in it desiring him to carry in his cocquet to the custom house as he had great business and could not carry it in himself. Hunt says, if Lock comes for his freight or sends anybody, he will stop them and have them before you or send for me or some other custom house officer. [1½ pages. Ibid. No. 8.]
July 17.
Tonbridge.
The Earl of Dorset to [Secretary Jenkins]. I had answered yours of the 11th sooner, but I daily expected a further seizure of arms in the Eastern division. The enclosed is all the account I can give at present but, having ordered the deputy lieutenants and militia officers to be very diligent in their search for arms and persons that can be anyways suspected, I shall be better informed at the assizes next Monday, where I have appointed a general meeting of the lieutenancy. By that time or before we shall be ready with an address. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 9.]
July 17.
Hartrow.
William Lacy to Secretary Jenkins. Col. Henry Owen about 12 days since was sent to the county gaol. We sent you copies of his examinations and of the informations. Not having heard from you I doubt our letter has miscarried, which makes me give you this second trouble. [Ibid. No. 10.]
July 17.
Walcot.
Sir Hugh Cholmley to Secretary Jenkins. I shall use all my skill to make the discovery you command at Scarborough, having some well-affected friends there, though I have particular causes to think merely from my father's services as Governor there during the late troubles I have never been thought worthy to serve them in Parliament, which for many years they had allowed to some of my family, and now the whole interest of that borough is in one you suspect of aiding to Wade's escape, who usually causes himself and his son to be elected, yet, considering the man's nature, his wealth in my opinion should make him more wary than to be guilty of such a fact. I hope all good subjects will offer up their thanks for this late deliverance. I have some reason to hope there will be changes both in the persons and the minds of those that compose the next House of Commons that they may act more according to the sense of the nation than did some of our late representatives, whose conduct was generally blamed and their votes disliked in the countries, where it is evident the late conspirators could not greatly spread their poison; their chief interest, as far as I can judge, lying in the out parts of London was by them mistaken both as to strength and numbers. I now hope the whole nation will find that an honest loyalty is the best policy and that the way to prevent all fears from the growth of our neighbours is not to pinch and straiten his Majesty's affairs but to support him with such cheerful supplies as may let the world see he is master of their hearts and purses. [2½ pages. Ibid. No. 11.]
July 17. — to Secretary Jenkins. A gentleman of quality, a Justice in Staffordshire, told me lately that you are making Edward Birch of the Middle Temple a Justice there and Recorder of Stafford, a person (unless reformed very lately) of principles not fit for those places. It is believed he is introduced by the Duke of Ormonde by the means of Col. Edward Vernon, who, it is thought, makes no good use of his interest in that Duke. Mr. Birch's lady is related to many loyal persons in that county, which will make them silent, but, if you inquire, you will find what I said to be true. The same person told me they had chosen John Turton Steward of Newcastle, who is of the same principles. [Ibid. No. 12.]
[July ?] Information from Mr. Foden of the Middle Temple to Secretary Jenkins. Since the Duke of Monmouth was last summer in Stafford, who is High Steward there, the Corporation has acted counter to all loyalty and that interest is highly promoted by his deputy, William Feake, who in 1659 proclaimed his Majesty a traitor and has brought so many of his principles into the governing part of the Corporation that neither his Majesty nor any of his loyal subjects can have justice. They have changed the fair granted on St. Peter's Day to another day. The Recorder has never had the King's approbation as required by the charter, and he has for many years lived remote and has neither come in person or made a deputy and the Mayor has every court day sworn a deputy Recorder unknown to the Recorder. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 13.]
July 17. 11 p.m. Thomas Lodwick to Peter Noyes at Trunkwell near Reading. Requesting his speedy coming, as he will be very helpful in this time of need.— When you know the occasion, I question not your ready compliance. I durst not here rehearse particulars. I am afraid things are worse than can be suspected concerning J. Noyes, he being so closely confined as none can be permitted to see him. [Ibid. No. 14.]
July 17. T. E. to Mr. Maynard. You cannot be unacquainted of the matters now on foot for the total extirpation of the Protestant interest and advancement of Popery and tyranny. Though for a time you may escape, you must not think you can do so long. Next Friday Lord Russell is to have his doom, if not prevented by some extraordinary means. I am informed you have warrants to summon supernumerary watches and wards which you may do to what number you please. Next Friday night you may so order the matter as to have a greater number than ordinary of good honest men that are for liberty and property and enemies to arbitrary government and a Popish successor. You cannot doubt my meaning. If you will accept the terms, you shall not fail of a suitable reward. You will not want assistance from all your partners except that Tory, Morris, who peradventure will demur in being assistant in this good work, but if he oppose any thing instrumental to the rooting out of the race of the Stuarts, who have been the pest of this nation for many years, I will not forget his refusal, when time shall be. I would not have concerned myself with you but I am well informed you have a greater influence on all sorts of people than any one in office in all the borough and are capable of managing what you undertake better than any other. If you love yourself, order the matter so that you may have a good number as aforesaid on Friday and keep this private, for, if you will do nothing, I conjure you be secret or by the eternal God you shall not live. Endorsed, "Maynard is a constable in St. Olave's, converses much with disaffected persons, is a busy bold talker, but, 'tis hoped, is honest. Mr. Maurice an honest man. " [Ibid. No. 15.]
July 17. The report of Edmond Warcupp. The sessions began the 12th. Collyns, a Presbyterian preacher, formerly a tailor, was indicted for administering the Sacrament, not being duly ordained. He was found guilty and by the statute of 14 Car. II. forfeited 100l. and stands committed to Newgate till payment. He was likewise indicted for preaching in an unlawful assembly, which he traversed. He behaved with great virulency and seems a dangerous person.
Several Quakers appealed against the conviction of a Justice for being at a conventicle. The record being erroneous, they got off. Several conventiclers, indicted at common law for being at unlawful assemblies, pleaded guilty and on promise to resort no more to conventicles and to conform to the Church were discharged with small fines.
Mr. Stephens, the messenger of the Press, gives the enclosed account of his duty and diligence.
Fox, the witness against Mr. Cauldron, Lord Clare's steward, produced several credible witnesses, by whom a practice appears that Cauldron endeavoured by rewards given and promised to stop Fox from going to Newmarket and since to blast his evidence by false accusations and by persecutions almost to his ruin.
Fox informing me that Jacob Pierson, a journeyman blacksmith, had arms, his lodgings were searched and the new invented weapon, wherewith I attend, was found. His examination (calendared ante p. 112) is enclosed. (Summary thereof.)
Fox desiring not to be bound to prosecute Pierson for the present, Pierson took the oaths of allegiance and supremacy and gave 200l. bail to appear next sessions and to be of good behaviour. If Fox will prosecute him, directions must be given to Mr. Attorney. The account of the proceedings at the Old Bailey is enclosed, representing Mr. Shepherd to be a vintner, when in truth he is an eminent merchant. 'Tis submitted whether the printer, writer and publisher of this pamphlet ought not to be prosecuted for lessening the credit of the King's witnessss.
If the immediate service require not my attendance here, I crave leave to pursue my duty in Oxfordshire till the next Middlesex sessions, which, being elected chairman, I must attend. [S.P. Dom., Car II. 429, No. 16.]
July 17. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Present, his Majesty, his Royal Highness, the Lord Keeper, the Lord President, the Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. Sparrey says that he said that if Keeling made out the plot he would be a fine fellow or else he wished him hanged. To be discharged, Keeling having interceded for him.
Information of Bourne concerning Owen and Bethell. Says that, if Braman be in the plot, it's likely Capt. Ward is too, being much conversant with him. Sir P. Lloyd undertakes he shall make his appearance.
Letter from Sir W. Courtenay read, disowning any knowledge of the plot. The Lord President to write to him that the King was informed that they relied on him and had tempted him, which occasioned the inquiry.
The messenger to carry down Ceely to Exeter, papers to be sent with him.
Mr. Graham to be spoke with about an inquisition to be found in Middlesex immediately against Lord Culpeper's patent. To attend the Lord Keeper.
Parker, a lawyer, says he has not seen Norton this fortnight.
Noyes called in says Lea, a dyer, told him there was to be a French invasion and afterwards that there was an invasion of their liberties and properties, and that the King was to come from Windsor and that it would be very well if, with their swords in their hands, they demanded their liberties. Lea says that Noyes said he would assist and get 10 men ready and would give him an account shortly, where they would lie. Noyes denies anything of 10 men, and says 'twas the second time Lea came to him. He (Noyes) appeared shy of him. Lea says 'twas the third time and that he told Noyes of a foreign invasion and afterwards of a national invasion and the King and Duke were to be secured as soon as there should be opportunity. Noyes says he thought it was a trepan.
Lea sworn to what he has informed against Noyes, viz., that one Saturday in Noyes' shop he told him their rights were invaded and Popery would come in and, having asked him if he would assist with men and money, he answered he would provide 10 men and would assist any way as should be desired. Noyes to be committed to the Tower for high treason.
Forquet (? Torquet) to be sent for.
Mrs. Trenchard to have leave to come out of the Tower for one week.
Information against Robinson read. To be put into Mr. Attorney's hands.
Mr. Ernle's petition granted in the presence of a keeper.
Mr. Heecks says he saw Henry Trenchard in the country, where he spoke factiously about setting up the Duke of Monmouth and the Black Box. Letter from Trenchard to Goodenough seized by Sir P. Lloyd amongst Goodenough's papers. Henry Trenchard called in, having surrendered himself, says he never writ but once to Goodenough. Never heard of men arming for an insurrection. To be bound in 1,000l. and two sureties in 500l. each to his good behaviour and to appear next term. The Lord Keeper tells him the King does not think fit he should go beyond sea and that he be bound as afore. To bring his sureties to-morrow.
Information against Thomas Giles. Copies to be sent to the clerk of the assizes to take care of the prosecution.
Letter from Col. Strother read.
Letter from George Ireton to Clerke read. A clerk of the Council to go and see what books are belonging to him at Lord Grey's house in the City.
Noyes called in again declares that most of what Lea said was truth, but that he did not promise to assist.
Care to be taken that an inventory be made of Lord Grey's goods in all his houses and that the Sheriffs take the same care as to others mentioned in the proclamations.
Col. Sydney to name what servants he would have to look after his estate and the King will consider of it. His estate and goods not to be meddled with.
Mr. Graham asked about his proceedings against Mr. Montagu and directed to cause a commission to be taken out against him for his office and Lord Culpeper's patent.
Harding, the waterman, to be put into Newgate. Leigh, the mariner, to remain in prison. Barber to be out on bail. [5 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 31.]
Shorter minutes of the above proceedings. [S.P. Dom., Car II. 429, Nos. 17, 18.]
July 17. The information of Francis Low, citizen and girdler of London. Working at the house of James Torquet in Christopher's Alley, Moorfields, last February, he heard him often say when speaking to him, Your King's design was to rule as the French King does. If I lived a little longer, I should find a great alteration in England, for new laws were making and a new frame of government, and a friend of his at the other end of the town had the drawing them up, and thousands of men were ready, but how many or for what use he did not say, only he said, if occasion arose. [Ibid. No. 19.]
July 17. The information of Richard Hollomore of St. Katherine's, vintner. On the 9th he heard John Sperry of the same parish say that the Earl of Essex was taken into custody and that Keeling was the occasion of it and that Keeling was a rogue and he would go 100 miles to see him hanged. [Ibid. No. 20.]
July 17. The information of Daniel Blackford of Oxhill, Warwickshire. About a week since John Tennant, not long since servant to Mr. Marriet of Auscote, Gloucestershire, told him he was to leave Mr. Marriet's service, because he would not hide arms, which were in the house at Auscote, but being in haste he did not ask Tennant what the arms were or their number. Tennant farther said that, if they were removed out of the house, they were removed to the house of Matthew Phipps, a tenant of Mr. Marriet's, for after he had refused to hide them Mr. Marriet's coach went twice in the night to Phipps' house, which he believes was to remove and conceal the arms there. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 199.]
July 17. The information of John Tennant of Oxhill. Was 4 years bailiff to Thomas Marriet and, when he left his service two years ago, he served John Marriet, his son, in the same manner. About a month since he saw in a maid's room about 20 guns and pistols. He had discovered to Sir William Underhill that there were arms in the house and said to Blackford before that very morning that he feared the said arms might be removed to Phipps' house, for he heard the coach, which he supposed to be Mr. Marriett's, go by his own house twice in the night, they being to go that way from Auscote house to Phipps' house. Denies he said there were arms in the coach. He was put out of his service for saying there were arms in Auscote house. They were bright arms and he supposes they were new scoured. [S.P. Dom., Car, II. 428, No. 199.]
July [17 ?]. Minutes of the proceedings at the trials of Hone and Lord Russell, which are fully reported in State Trials Vol. IX. It adds:— Neither of the witnesses swore any word against Lord Russell that they should hear him say, but only that he was at those places, which they called designed meetings and consults. . . . 'Twas much admired he should mind the evidence so little, talking most part of his trial to his wife and sister. He is very cheerful and, it seems, little concerned. Sir W. Courtenay was likewise named in Lord Russell's trial by Rumsey or Lord Howard (I am not certain which), who said he was told by Ferguson that Sir William sent word he could not be ready so soon as they expected with the men he had promised should rise in the West.
You have heard long ere this no doubt that, while the King and the Duke of York were in the Tower last Friday morning, the Earl of Essex cut his throat with a razor to the great astonishment of all persons.—Then follow lists of the persons indicted on the 12th with the names of the witnesses against each. Corresponding with those printed in Luttrell, Vol. I, p. 267. [4 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 21.]
July [17–] 27. — to the Lord Mayor. If you will get me a pardon for so long concealing this wicked conspiracy, I shall do his Majesty all the service I can. To my knowledge many are concerned in it, to the number of 500. The chief man for carrying messages to persons of all qualities lives in Katherine Wheel Alley in Whitechapel, who formerly kept a coffee-house in the same alley, but, because he would not conform to the Church of England, was forced to leave his old trade and take up this new one. His name is Walter Thomas, Master of the Glovers' Company two years ago, a person loaded with sedition and always reflecting on his Majesty and the government. When I hear he is committed and have the promise of a pardon in the Gazette, I shall come to England in the first packet-boat. I do not think it material to write my name, till I hear further. [Ibid. No. 22.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Presentation of Robert Wychingham, M.A., to the rectory of Thebarton, Suffolk, void by lapse or otherwise. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 57, p. 65.]
July 17. Secretary Jenkins to Roger Pope. I should have much sooner acknowledged your letter of the 3rd, but that I have been in an extreme hurry. The search you have made and are designing to make for arms was very well approved of by his Majesty. You will ere this have received a second letter from Viscount Newport, to which I refer you. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 333.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Deputy Lieutenants of Salop. I acknowledge yours of the 12th with a parcel of depositions, which were all immediately laid before his Majesty. Mr. Forrester, the younger, named in them bound himself in 4,000l. and to find two sureties to be bound in 2,000l. each to keep the peace for 12 months. I was commanded to write to you to require bond to the same effect of Mr. Forrester's father and to assure you that your diligence and zeal is very acceptable to his Majesty and very useful at this time. [Ibid. p. 334.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Earl of Winchilsea. I thank you for yours of the 14th and 15th. His Majesty is so intent on the examination of those that can either as criminals or witnesses give light to the search he is making that he does not allow himself time to do anything else in a manner, not even to deliberate on such propositions of use and moment as those in your letter; much less is he yet at leisure to think what can be done for the relief of the French minister at Rye. The design of your address is more than ordinarily great and generous and sure I am it will meet with its welcome. [Ibid.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir John Reresby. I am forced to give you the trouble of another Habeas corpus for James Gibson, the one-eyed Scotchman, now in York gaol. It is thought here by some that suppose they know him that he is able to make considerable discoveries. Therefore his Majesty desires he may be sent hither under a very safe guard. Pringle, the Scotchman, whose right name is Gordon of Earlston, lately taken at Newcastle and sent into Scotland, makes very material discoveries there. [Ibid. p. 335.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Duke of Newcastle. I am extremely sorry that my letter of the 10th to you came to you unsealed. I must take the faults of my clerks on myself. The truth is (but I don't allege it by way of excuse) that the same letter was sent to all the Lords Lieutenant in England, who are not a few, and that the one for you escaped without being sealed, and for aught I know some other, though I hear of none among such a number. I beseech you to excuse this misfortune and, as there was no rebuke intended in it for any seizure made (the words being all weighed and approved of), so there was nothing that the factious could justly lay hold of, as if fault had been found with your particular conduct, for the very same words were written to every Lord Lieutenant, so that I hope you will not find cause to charge me with any ill consequences. I have represented the contents of yours of the 9th and 11th to his Majesty and, when he is at more leisure, he will examine carefully the lists of the arms seized and give order to dispose of them according to the true intent of the law. [Ibid.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Lord Weymouth. The address of Wiltshire at the quarter sessions was presented to-day to his Majesty. He received it graciously and fully approved of the reasons you give why it was not attended with some of the gentlemen of that county in the presenting of it. He allows that the presence and influence of the loyal nobility and gentry are always of good use to him but at this time of necessity in a manner in the county. Otherwise the orders he may send will be but ill received and worse executed, which I am sure you will as much as lies in you prevent. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 336.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Earl of Yarmouth. Yours of the 12th was read every word before his Majesty and the address that came under its cover graciously accepted. His Majesty is clearly of a judgment that your presence there is much more of service to him than your journey hither to present the address would be. He will not be easy in giving access to a second address from Yarmouth. When any such thing is attempted, if I happen to hear of it, I shall be sure to acquaint his Majesty with it. In the interim the present address is to be printed in its turn.
When I read your letter, the Lord Keeper and several others of the lords were present, but they were all of opinion that a mandamus to choose a bayliff should not be sent down, for, though there may be precedents for it in former times, yet the usage now all England over is otherwise. Besides, if a mandamus from Whitehall should be given for the choosing of the bayliffs or one of them, 'tis most certain that the first day of term a mandamus would be sued out in Westminster Hall to control the former, but as for the Quo Warranto, if the infractions be assigned in writing and transmitted hither and there be witnesses to prove such infractions, Mr. Attorney will have no difficulty, he assures me, to issue out a Quo Warranto against that corporation. I have order to speak with Lord Dartmouth and care will be taken of the powder you speak of. [Ibid. p. 337.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir Thomas Exton. This gentleman is recommended to me by Lady Montagu, a lady whom I would be the gladdest to serve of any living. There is a vacancy now in your own church of St. Bennet's Paul's Wharf. I pretend to nothing but such a single suffrage as any other doctor in the Commons has, not to choose (for that I know belongs to the patrons) but humbly to recommend as being concerned in the good of the place. You may dispose of my vote as your own, for sure I am you will give it this gentleman, if you find him the fittest of any that present themselves for this poor place, for in this case I consider no friendships at all but so far only as to wish that my friend or my friends' friend may approve himself the fittest. [Ibid. p. 338.]
July 17.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Thomas Atterbury, messenger, for apprehending — Ayliffe and his servant, who are suspected to be privy to the concealment of Edward Norton, who is accused of high treason, and for bringing them before the Earl of Sunderland. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 18.]
[July ?]. John Harris, prisoner in Newgate, to the King. Petition for a pardon for his life and a grant of transportation, being convicted last sessions for clipping, he having been merely employed by John and Roger Muggleston to sell clippings and clipped money. [S.P. Dom. Car. II. 429, No. 23.] Annexed,
July 18. Certificate by 12 inhabitants of St. Andrew's, Holborn, that Harris is not above 20 years of age, was always esteemed an honest, laborious fellow, and was never before in gaol or convicted. [Ibid. No. 23 I.]
July 18.
Stepney.
Sir William Smythe to Sir John Peake. I have made a search, as you desired, but Stacy is not to be found. It is not to be thought he would be in any of his confederates' houses. I have returned the letters sent you and it is my opinion you should carry them to Secretary Jenkins. Perhaps he may have had some intelligence concerning Stacy. Very probably he will send for and examine the persons mentioned in those letters. No question both are dangerous men. [Ibid. No. 24.]
July 18.
London.
Benjamin Herne to Secretary Jenkins. Some days ago Mr. Clayton, a saddler in Finsbury, told me Lord Grey was gone away about 80l. in his debt for saddles etc., and that three other gentlemen whose names he refused to tell me owed him about 500l. I asked if Sir John Coventry was one. He answered Sir John was his very good friend and paid him very well. I think it my duty to acquaint you, he being a Dissenter, and by his books it may appear what sort of goods he has sold to that party. If he be brought before you, his books may be secured at the same time. [Ibid. No. 25.]
July 18. Ch. Gilbert of Sheerness to Philip Frowde. The neighbouring corporation of Queenborough is ill-affected. The Mayor drank the Duke of Monmouth's health two days after the proclamation was out for apprehending him, which the sergeant pulled down from the market house and said it was a parcel of lies. Few in that town are not disloyal, but here we are all faithful subjects. [Ibid. No. 26.]
July 18.
Rye.
Robert Hall to Secretary Jenkins. The copies of your letters of 29 June and 11 July came to the Mayor's and my hands from the Governor of Dover Castle. Some of those bloody-minded people I am afraid are in this town, whose houses we have searched, as Thomas Miller, shopkeeper, a great Nonconformist, whence the new steel cap covered with velvet, a coat of mail covered with silk and a gauntlet were taken, of which I formerly gave you an account that he bought by the advice of Tedman, when he was here. I was informed there were five suits of them, but we can find no more. Here are likewise Thomas Tutty, a brewer, one of Oliver's lieutenants, who declares he will never renounce the Covenant, Thomas Markwick, a shopkeeper and preacher, whom we took preaching in Miller's house and levied the 20l. on each, and Samuel Jeake, son of that old Nonconformist preacher that was before the King and Council in the business of Rye, whom the King ordered should be prosecuted on the Oxford Act, he having absented himself some time since for fear. These are looked on as very ill men and the ringleaders of others. We have searched the houses both of these and them, but we suppose their arms are conveyed away, for we have found very few. Enclosed is an account of the arms taken and from whom. Mr. Burdett, who was and is a great champion for the Duke of Monmouth and could not dispense with drinking the Duke of York's health, being then a jurat and lieutenant under me, had engaged himself so far under the colours of Mr. Tedman for being Parliament man here that there was no persuading him to desist, but he answered he had set his hand to the plough and was resolved to go through with it, for which he was turned out of his employment in the customs and his lieutenant's place, and has since been a great stickler for Mr. Tournay, who is now gone to live at Hythe, to execute his place of town clerk there, which I hope he will not long enjoy, being chosen there because he was turned out here by the King's command, and now, to put him in a greater power to do mischief, is returned for that town as one of the representatives in the parliament of the ports. I searched his house, before he went, for arms and found none but his wearing sword, which I left him as I have done Mr. Burdett's and found there five swords and a fowling piece, which I left him with his riding sword and took away the rest. [1½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 27.]
July 18.
Chichester.
Sir Richard May to Secretary Jenkins. Just now Mr. Trevat, one of the share owners of the Hare pink, that carried away Lord Grey, delivered me the enclosed letter, which came last night from John Day, a ship carpenter of Emsworth near this, but who is now at London. Trevat is in such fear that he scarce dares to go to London to look after his vessel. I intimate this by an express messenger. I have caused a copy of it to be likewise sent to the Commissioners of the Customs at London, and in a day or two will wait on you with the city address. [Ibid. No. 28.]
July 18.
Ham.
Lord Stawell to Secretary Jenkins. I enclose the examination of Jane Takebread, who is bound over to give evidence. I resolve to take up Hucher and Freind with the coffee-man mentioned in the examination and bind them over to the assizes, if we can get no other evidence against them, whereby to secure them by commitment, for they are very dangerous persons and undoubtedly involved with Mr. Trenchard deeply, having ability both of body, purse and mind to oppose the present government. Having secured divers arms from persons we conceive to be illaffected, we desire to know his Majesty's pleasure how to dispose of them. [Ibid. No. 29.]
July 18.
Bath.
John Bushell to George Clarke in George Street in York Buildings. I was desired by the Mayor and Justices to send you the enclosed presentment and the information against Mr. Moore and to desire you to deliver them to Secretary Jenkins and to know what shall be done in Mr. Moore's business. The words were spoken before the proclamation came out. The presentment was made at our sessions and most of the jury were formerly of Sir George Speke's party. We have great alteration here among the Fanatics, for scarce any go to meetings. Last Sunday Mr. Langton disturbed a meeting at Englishcombe and intends to bind over most of the meeters to the county sessions. He has granted a warrant to levy 20l. on the owner of the house. Your kinsman, John Sherston, was one of the jury and a great promoter of this presentment. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 30.]
July 18.
Oxford.
The Earl of Abingdon to Secretary Jenkins. On receipt of your letter I made another search for arms, which is the reason I have not yet sent you a list of those taken before. On Monday my brother Herbert and Sir John Doiley went to Henley, where they had information from a saddler that he had made saddles and holsters for some of those men, who denied any such thing, but one of them, a mealman, brother to Flight of Wapping said to be in the plot, they emptied all his sacks of meal and in the bottoms of some found a case of pistols and two swords, a great evidence to me not only of their guilt but also that they have more arms hid. The saddler being threatened by them would have denied that ever he made them saddles and holsters and thereon they bound him and them to be of good behaviour and to appear at the assizes. On this I came here last night and sent my brother to search Alderman Wright's house again, who positively said he had no arms, but my brother, knowing him too well, searched as strictly as he could, and putting a boy into a little closet, where some wood lay, he espied through a hole in the boards a room below, and pulling up a piece of the board he saw a sword and a paper box. My brother ordering the boy to go down they told him there was a way into the room below, and so carrying him down into the kitchen they took out a little board out of the dresser coloured so like the wall that nobody could have discovered it, and then the boy crept in and fetched out the sword and the paper box, which my brother immediately sealed up, saying he had no commission to search or open it. Afterwards my brother asked if he had no armour, and after some hesitation he said he believed there might be some such thing that belonged to a militia horse he found in Berkshire, but they had not been used a great while, and so my brother searched and found in several places a horseman's sword, a suit of arms, carbine and buffcoat and two colour's staves, which he said he used when he stood for parliament, and so he brought the arms and box to me, the alderman coming with them, whom I told I would not search his box but only seal it up, but he desired to have it opened presently, saying there was nothing but what any one might see, and so I appointed my brother and Mr. Baker and another of his neighbours to see him open it. First they found several factious books, which they made a catalogue of. Afterwards they found letters and papers, some of which they secured, among them Fitzharris' libel, which the alderman would have excused, saying it was what was read in the House of Commons. There were also some notes about a volunteer company, which was heretofore here and I was about reviving two years ago, the alderman himself having often solicited me to it, when he and I were kind, though now he thought it illegal and out of that and College's trial he had prepared some notes for an impeachment against me, as I have reason to believe, having heard as much long since from one of their party. Whether you think fit to send for him and these papers I submit to you, but I have sent for some more Justices of the city and suppose they will take good security for his good behaviour and appearing at the assizes; Fitzharris' libel being so horrid a thing, if there were nothing else. I am to be at a common council here this afternoon about an address and shall improve the opportunity to incline them to submit to his Majesty as the City of London has done, if I can. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 31.]
[July 18.] Certificate by Samuel Smith, ordinary of Newgate. Being this day with Capt. Walcot to prepare him for his death I desired him as a dying man to resolve me in some things in order to the disburdening of his conscience.
He told me he was now 58 and had been Ludlow's capt.lieutenant in the civil wars. The plot began to be on foot in August or September last, on the rejecting of Mr. Papillon and Mr. Dubois. He was drawn into it by the Earl of Shaftesbury, who pretended it was an undertaking to assert the people's just liberties, which were in hazard. God suffered him to be entangled in the plot for several preceding sins and remissnesses in his course of life and the Lord was now righteous in this distress which has befallen him. He propounded no prospect of earthly advantage to himself, but did it merely by the usual argument among them, viz., of standing for liberty of conscience and to assert and preserve the people's liberties now in hazard. He was prevailed on by Shaftesbury to go over to Holland with him. Ferguson went over also. He remained there with Shaftesbury, who, even when he drew nigh his decease, was not much sensible of how fatal the issue of the conspiracy might prove. He was witness to a codicil of goods or such estate as Shaftesbury had in Holland. Ferguson after Shaftesbury's decease was invited over to England by Mr. Sheppard. Walcot came over also and had several meetings with Ferguson. He met West three or four times, who was very impatient because the design was not put in execution. Walcot was told at a meeting that all things were now in a readiness for an insurrection, for it was laid not only in Scotland but in most counties in England. I asked if he thought there was yet any danger of the plot breaking out. He believed that if there were never so little appearance of an insurrection, on the least attempt multitudes would flock in to abet it. He cannot think the danger yet over, by reason of the largeness of communicating the design. He never made any promise to charge on the King's guards, because, if they had fallen, his Majesty had been left naked of defence, which in effect would have amounted to the crime of violating his person, which never entered into his thought. He might have fled with Norton, Goodenough, Wade and Nelthorpe and one more, who gave 5l. towards the hiring of the vessel which transported them, but cared not to transport himself with them and ramble over the world, having the gout. He heartily forgives such as gave evidence against him, though they were deeper in the plot than himself. It is the grief and burthen of his soul, that by thus entangling himself in the plot, viz., by meeting three or four times about it, he had blemished the Protestant religion. He advises all to have a care how they frequent places of curiosity and inquiring after news, also to take heed how they become busy in hearkening to suggestions out of discontent to alter the present government, for in anything amiss God will take His own way and time to redress it without any anticipation of violent counsels and attempts. Of this he said he is now convinced, though it be too late. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 32.]
[July 18.] Certificate by the same of the questions he put to Capt. Walcot, to which he returned the answers inserted in two sides of large paper (i.e. the last document).—In the afternoon I charged Mr. Hone as a dying man to discharge his conscience. He returned this only account and confession. He was first entangled in the plot by Goodenough, who told him about Easter or Whitsuntide that things were much amiss and that they must be redressed by securing the City. I asked him what he apprehended Goodenough meant, as the City was safely guarded by the Lieutenancy. He replied that Goodenough was somewhat shy of expressing his meaning, but meeting him afterwards hinted some alteration to be made in redressing things and to secure the liberty and privileges of the people, but would not discover more at that or any other time. Hone said he was acquainted by chance with Keeling and his brother and that discoursing with them at a coffee-house they were discontented, complaining of the times, and that he said to them he would depose the King and had rather see that effected than that hurt should come to the King's brother. Hone met them in the street afterwards, but had no further discourse with them.
I found Hone pretty shy of me, though I intermitted such inquisitive discourse that he might the less suspect my intention, which was to get out of him the whole as far as I could by degrees. I asked him most or all the questions I asked Walcot, but he replied he had discovered all he knew. I asked him if he were not appointed or took on himself to offer violence to his Majesty, which he utterly denied.
Afterwards I urged Mr. Rouse also to discharge his conscience as a dying man. He replied he could say no more nor knew not of any thing more than what he had already declared to his Majesty or the Council and that he never conspired the death of the King nor to raise any war or rebellion. He knew not of any conspiracy or conspirators, which he would have revealed if he had, only he heard Lee, a dyer, speak very dangerous or treasonable words, which he concealed, for which he repents. [1½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 33.]
July 18. The information on oath of Capt.-Lieutenant John Williams. About 11 last night he went to John Noyes' house and found on the counter the letter he has now given in written by Thomas Lodwick (calendared ante, p. 144). Searching for arms, he found the ashes of papers newly burnt in the kitchen chimney. Questioning Lodwick who wrote the above letter and what papers had been burnt, he first denied that any were burnt and afterwards confessed they were written and printed papers, but did not declare their contents. [Ibid. No. 34.]
July 18. The examination of Thomas Lodwick. Last night he went into the house of Mr. Noyes, who married his sister, to look for papers. He had no authority but went to see of his own head. He took out of a drawer of a chest a parcel of printed papers, being the petition of the prentices, when Sir P. Ward was Lord Mayor, and put them on the top of the chest. He advised Henry Buck, Noyes' apprentice, to burn them as useless and did not know how he disposed of them. [Ibid. No. 35.]
July 18. The information on oath of Richard Watson of Crixeth (Cricksea), fisherman. Describing how he was asked on 29 June by Mr. Stacy and then by two gentlemen to take the said gentlemen to sea to meet the East India fleet and that next day he found them taking horse at Stacy's house and they told him they had altered their plans and were now going for London. [Ibid. No. 36.]
July 18. The information on oath of Thomas Cobb of Burnham, fisherman. Describing how John Lewis endeavoured 30 June to engage him to go with him to sea to take these two gentlemen to meet the East India fleet. [Ibid. No. 37.]
July 18. The deposition on oath of John Kelly, Stephen Stringer, Francis Bewsa and Thomas Crookenden of Sandwich and Richard Wiggins of London, taken before Bartholomew Coombes, Mayor, and 5 Jurats of Sandwich. Last Monday afternoon at the Flower de Luce in Sandwich, Thomas Elsted of Sandwich rising to go took a glass of wine and drank a health to the Duke of Monmouth, another to Lord Grey, another to Sir Thomas Armstrong and another to another man, whom they believe to be Ferguson. They believe that Elsted intended no harm in doing so. [Ibid. No. 38.]
July 18. The information on oath of William Vicars, constable of Scausby. Going to search at Scausby Hall for the Duke of Monmouth and other suspicious persons, James Johnson, as he called himself, whose name is since found to be James Gibson, offered to help him to search, which being performed to no purpose, he said to the informant, as they were drinking, was it not sad that one man should lead three kingdoms? Several great men in Scotland had bound themselves by 7 or 8 great oaths one bigger than another, to worship what they pleased. The informant said he did not name the King but supposed he meant him by that one man. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 200.]
July 18.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Thomas Cheeke, Lieutenant of the Tower, to permit the bearer, Michael Ernle, with his lawyer, to have conference in the presence of a warder with John Wildman, a prisoner in the Tower. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 184.]
July 18. Order that Mrs. Trenchard be permitted to come out of the Tower for a week. Minute. [Ibid. p. 208.]
July 18. The Earl of Sunderland to Mr. Buckby of Daventry. I received your letter of the 14th by the gentleman that brought an address to his Majesty from Daventry, whom I recommended to Lord Peterborough, Lord Lieutenant of the county, as the fittest person to introduce them to the King, which he did this morning, when he received their address very graciously. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 56, p. 74.]
July 18.
Whitehall.
The Earl of Sunderland to Lord Brooke. I received your letter of the 13th by a gentleman that brought an address to his Majesty from Warwick, whom I recommended to Lord Conway, Lord Lieutenant of that county (the rest as in the former letter). [Ibid.]
July 18.
Whitehall.
The Earl of Sunderland to Mr. Brisbane. Desiring him to acquaint the Commissioners that it is his Majesty's pleasure that the yacht which is ready for Calais be sent thither either to-night or as soon as possible with directions to attend there in order to bring over Monsr. Tilladel. [Ibid.]
July 18. Secretary Jenkins to Mr. Graham. Among the minutes of last night are:—Care to be taken that an inventory be made of Lord Grey's goods in all his houses and that the Sheriffs do the like as to others mentioned in the proclamations. If this be understood to be any part of my business, I must desire your help, not only in giving me the names of the Sheriffs to be written to but also the legal form in which I should write. If it be not my business, I hope you will set the thing adoing in the proper hands. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 339.]
July 18. Secretary Jenkins to the Bishop of Oxford. I have scarce time to transmit you the address enclosed. I do it because I fear Mr. Vice-Chancellor may be gone out of town. It was presented to-day to his Majesty. The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Duke of Albemarle were present. The presenters were ten Heads of Houses. Four were found in town and six came up from Cambridge on purpose. I confess this is a way too vulgar and trite. I like better a great deal the thoughts that are said to be among you of a book of verses, but I submit to your judgment. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 339.]
[Before July 19.] Notice to — to meet the loyal liverymen of London, inhabitants of the city and liberty of Westminster at 10 on Thursday, 19 July, at St. Martin's in the Fields to hear a sermon and thence to walk to Westminster Hall to dine with his brother liverymen. [Printed. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 39.]
July 19.
Newgate.
William, Lord Russell to the King. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 688 note and in Lord John Russell's Life of William Lord Russell, Vol. II, p. 93). [Original and copy. Ibid. Nos. 40, 41.]
[July 19.] Dr. Gilbert Burnet to Lady Russell. (Printed in Lord John Russell's Life of William Lord Russell, Vol. II, p. 95). (Copy on the same paper as the copy of the last letter.) [Ibid. No. 41.]
[July 19.] John Walcott to the King. Petition for the delivery of the body of his father, Capt. Walcott, who is to be executed next Friday for private interment, with request at the foot for an order to Capt. Tracy to deliver to the petitioner a trunk belonging to his father containing a suit of clothes, a hat and some linen which his said father would make use of to-morrow at his execution. [Ibid. No. 42.]
[July 19 ?] Henry Cotton to the King. Petition for release, on security if required. Was examined about his knowledge of Norton (16 July, see ante, p. 137) and being under surprise and 80 years of age made some mistakes and was committed to a messenger, but next day told all he could in order to Norton's discovery. [Ibid. No. 43.]
[July 19.] — to Secretary Jenkins. I received a letter late last night from Rouse, desiring to speak with me. This morning he delivered me two petitions, one to his Majesty, the other to his Royal Highness. I told him I believed they were to little purpose and nothing therein to bespeak mercy, whereon he told me there are very eminent citizens and others concerned in this conspiracy that he can and will name, but I doubt it is conditionally. I asked if he would faithfully and fully discover if his Majesty sent down. He replied he would.
To-morrow Lord Russell intends to receive the Sacrament from Dr. Burnet and would have his servant and a friend or two more. I told Capt. Richardson I would acquaint you with it. I presume it is to make some declaration to them thereon. I promised to send the captain your opinion. [Ibid. No. 44.] Enclosed,
John Rous, prisoner in Newgate, to the King. Petition for a reprieve and, if not, that his wife may have his body. When admitted to his Majesty's presence, he was commanded to do somewhat further than speak of what might conduce to his Majesty's service. He cheerfully went about it, but instead of seeing his Majesty again was hurried from one prison to another, no person allowed to come nigh him nor any conveniency to provide for a trial, and was brought in guilty. Has 4 little ones, his wife ready to lay in with another. Has many great accounts unadjusted with others. His life will be more serviceable than his blood. Never had any design against his Majesty's person or government. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 44 I.]
John Rous to the Duke of York. Petition for his intercession with the King for a reprieve or the delivery of his body to his wife. When Bacon's business was on foot in Virginia was brought to him by Mr. Blood and was thanked for what he discovered. (The rest is similar to the last petition.) (Ibid. No. 44 II.]
[July ?] Statement by [John Rous ?] Sir P. Ward and Sir [R. Peyt]on, Sir T. Player, Mr. Pilkington and many others, of whom I shall give his M[ajesty a t]rue account, if I may but find grace in [his ey]es to have ju[dgemen]t respited and m[ay by] the grace of G[od] give a full account of every man's name who were at the several . . . . and God and his Majesty I hope will stand by me and pass by my neglect in not communicating what I knew, though for my part I abhorred any such designs. [Torn. Ibid. No. 45.]
July 19.
London.
George Kirton to the Mayor of Liverpool. Last Tuesday Mr. Sweeny showed me Joseph Webber's letter, intimating that you had secured him on suspicion of being in the plot and that Sweeny would certify you how he behaved whilst he was in his house, which he tells me he cannot do, for, though he lodged in his house six weeks, he cannot say whether he was for or against the Church of England or whether he went to church or what life or conversation he led or what employment or business he had, for he lay at several inns besides his and his trunk used to be at one place and he at another. But I am sure he bought a great many muskets and blunderbusses and conveyed them to a very remote place near the London Custom house, I fear on an ill design, which were lately removed. On the 9th an indictment was found against him by the City Grand Jury for enticing and seducing a neighbour's child away. He has not been heard of since till now. [Ibid. No. 48.]
July 19. The Mayor and Jurats of Sandwich to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing the deposition about Elsted, calendared ante p. 156, for whose appearance they have taken security, and desiring directions therein. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 49.]
July 19.
Chichester.
The Bishop of Chichester to Secretary Jenkins. To-day the Mayor and the Recorder come from Chichester with an address. They took the names of all to make up a number. I shall mention only one of the same leaven, Robert Haselin. I know him to be that notorious villain that questioned nay denied the King's right to the Church of England and spoke most contemptuously against his Royal Highness and whom Dr. Edes and the whole faction brought off with an Ignoramus, which pleased them all so well that they brought him back to his house in great triumph. The same villain now gave Mr. Reves the lie for saying the conspiracy was discovered and presumptuously affirmed it was not yet. Our Domini factotum here has a great kindness for such people and particularly for Haselin. That night Sam. Carleton had taken Major Breman on Mr. Atterbury's coming privately to Chichester, this great man fell into a deep melancholy of a sudden and would not be sociable, insomuch that a very loyal person perceiving his disease said, What's the matter that you are in mourning, while all the loyal party are ready to leap out of our skins for joy that Breman is laid hold on, that has been so desperate an enemy to the King and as bad as a plague here? We were all afraid he would have escaped and you are troubled that he is taken. He answered, I am troubled that a man should be restrained of his liberty, when there is nothing against him. The other replied, No doubt he is guilty enough and, if it be not known at present, let them keep him in safe custody till witnesses come in. The melancholy magistrate with some indignation replied, Is that your conscience to use men so ? If that be your religion, keep it to yourself, or words to that purpose, though when Breman was at liberty he would speak against him in loyal company as others did. The address is good and I made it to be well worded. I would I could have made the rotten addressers better.
We expect and hope that order may be speedily sent to take up Major Hurst. He has confessed that he conversed with Everard at the time he conveyed Lord Grey and his company beyond sea; and that Everard hired his ship and the Mayor of Chichester's to carry him to Holland. The Mayor and Hurst are partners in that ship. There are other things against him. He is not much less dangerous than Breman and every jot as malicious. There are other material things against him, if he were in custody. He is yet visible, but we fear he will disappear very suddenly, his guilt being great and of long standing. The order were best enclosed to Sam. Carleton, that he may deliver it to the Mayor, otherwise the Mayor will discover it to Hurst, if it come directly to him. [Ibid. No. 50.]
July 19.
Chichester.
The Bishop of Chichester to Secretary Jenkins. These are the depositions of Philip Reves and William Cudrington, if they be faithfully transmitted, but I have known some Chichester Justices omit the most material parts of a deposition even in capital matters, Justices that have never been friends to the King and his interest here farther than (as the proverb is) from the teeth forward.
The substance I collect out of these depositions is:— 1. The three men (Haselin, Longeridge and that most suspicious person, a stranger) noticed to repair to Major Breman in such haste the instant orders were out to search and watch Breman's house were all disaffected and therefore ought to give an account what their errand was. 2. Haselin ought to be sent to the county gaol, unless he discover what that part of this conspiracy is which he affirms to be yet undiscovered, for he is a desperate fellow and suspected to be one of those under an oath to kill the King, whose names are not yet discovered. Again he knows how far Dr. Edes and Major Breman are concerned in this conspiracy and what parts they were to act in it. 3. The stranger that came in such haste to Major Breman's was in all probability that treacherous soldier in the Guards that fled with Lord Grey at first and, if he had been then taken and examined, it might have prevented Lord Grey's escape, for Lord Grey was seen at that instant hovering between Chichester and Up Park on the road not a mile and a half from Chichester. Certainly the Mayor can never answer the great disservice to his Majesty in the neglect of his duty in so important an affair. (About the address and addressers, as in his other letter.) Prefixed,
The above-mentioned depositions of Reves and Cudrington, the purport of which sufficiently appears from the above letter. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 51.]
July 19.
Salisbury.
Sir Gilbert Talbot to Secretary Jenkins. I am just arrived here. I think myself obliged to impart to you a matter that is remote, but comes to me from a very sure hand. Sir John Bowyer of Staffordshire, whose temper you cannot but have observed in the House of Commons, was far from his house in a journey with friends to treat about a considerable purchase, and hearing that Lord Gerard of Brandon, with whom he had great intimacy, was clapped up in the Tower, he quitted his friends and purchase and hasted home. Now, though nothing can hence be charged on him, it affords very good ground of jealousy that his haste must be to conceal letters or dispose of arms or both and may serve for matter of examination when Lord Gerard is brought before you. [Ibid. No. 52.]
July 19.
Rycott.
The Earl of Abingdon to Secretary Jenkins. Since my last Sir George Pudsey and two more Justices examined Alderman Wright and took an account of his papers and books, which they sealed up, and bound him with two sureties in 4,000l. for his good behaviour and his appearance at the assizes. His books were a collection of the most scandalous libels as The Growth of Popery, No Protestant Plot and a Life of Lord Shaftesbury dedicated to the protesting lords, which I never heard of before.
I was yesterday morning with the Mayor and Aldermen about their address. I told them plainly I thought no address would be acceptable and much less fit for me to appear in, till they acknowledged their faults and submitted to his Majesty in the business of their charter, which all were willing to do but the Mayor, who also at last consented, desiring me to prepare an address with such a submission against the meeting of the Common Council in the afternoon, which I did, but then the Mayor thought I had worded it too full and that the submission implied a surrender of their charter, which he could never consent to, and so would not propose it to the Council, whereupon I went away and took the address with me, but the Council sent to me to desire a sight of it and were generally for it, but, the Mayor continuing positive not to propose it, nothing could be done and so I left them, resolving not to meddle unless they were unanimous, lest I should meet with another opposition when his Majesty had made his proposals and have them baffled, but, if you would have an address without a submission or with a partial one, it will be no hard matter to get such a one. I am vexed that the delay of our assizes will make the address of this county so late and beg your advice whether I should send up one from the deputy lieutenants and militia officers in the mean time.
I expected, when I sent my last list of my deputy lieutenants, that his Majesty would have struck out Lord Lovelace and Sir John Cope, who, I presume, you do not think fit to be trusted now, and suppose his Majesty only can put them out. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 53.]
July 19.
Worcester.
Adam Powell, Mayor, to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing the examination of William Thompson of St. Lawrence Jewry, London, a Scotchman apprehended there, and desiring directions. [Ibid. No. 54.] Enclosed,
July 19. The said examination. The examinant, being suspected of being the person mentioned among others in the proclamation, says he is not the person intended, that he was born in the parish of Westerkirke in Scotland, and now lives at the Angel and Crown, Cheapside, and lately purchased his freedom of the City and that he is informed that the William Thompson mentioned in the proclamation is a carver and lives at Wapping. [Ibid. No. 54 I.]
[July ? 19.] William Thomson to Secretary Jenkins. Petition for his release, stating to the effect in the above letter and examination. With note at the side by Thomas Atterbury that he has examined Thomson's wife and several loyal men thereabouts and finds he is a Scotchman, who has lived there the last three years and usually kept the fairs mentioned in his petition and has the repute of an honest man. [Ibid. No. 55.]
July 19. H. F[orrester] to H. Davenport. When I was with the lieutenants I forgot to acquaint them that there were also 50 pikes, which were all burnt, else they should have been sent in, as I did the muskets, bandoleers and swords, but all the heads I will bring you tomorrow. With note by Davenport that this was written in the High Sheriff's presence. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 56.]
July 19.
Northwich.
Six Justices of Cheshire to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing a particular of what was found at the Earl of Macclesfield's.—We have likewise disarmed all suspected persons in our county that we know of and have given an account of all those disarmed and of the number of the arms to our Lord Lieutenant. We have also received orders from you not to meddle with fowling pieces, swords and trifling things, but, having seized some before the receipt of your order, we desire to know whether they shall be returned. [Ibid. No. 57.]
July 19. Certificate by Richard Lowe that in pursuance of an order of 14 July he had taken security from the plaintiff for the return of the will therein mentioned into court within a fortnight after the execution of the commission in the cause. [Damaged. Ibid. No. 58.]
July 19. Minutes of the proceedings before the Council. Present, his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland and Rochester, Earl of Conway and Secretary Coventry (must be a mistake for Jenkins) with note all present except Lord President and Lord Conway. Heborn says he knew of the rising plot both in Scotland and England by several hands and persons of no great note. Wilson told him something of it but not the particular time. He borrowed 10l., the money for his horse, from those with him. Was going to the Borders. Several persons were engaged, Sir J. Cochrane one. Ordered to put his knowledge into writing.
Letter from the Bishop of Edinburgh and Lord Moray read concerning Nisbet. Ordered that Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor consider the laws about sending Scotch offenders into Scotland, to report to the King.
Lea says he talked once with Porter about the insurrection. He received 10s. of Noyes to go and talk with some weavers about the business. He abated it to his wife on his account since the discovery.
On Rouse's petition to the King Sir P. Lloyd to go to examine him. To tell him that, if he can by papers or persons prove what he has to say, 'tis the only way to deserve mercy. Sheriff Rich says that, if the King would permit somebody to come to him, he would confess all.
To draw up some heads for the Lord Keeper in order to a declaration.
Porter, partner to Cole the brewer, called in. Lea says they usually saw one another at the taverns. He told them their rights and privileges were invaded and the manner to retrieve. Porter agreed to assist. Cole offered to assist too. He told Porter every particular of the insurrection and of the design to seize the Tower. Porter told he must find good sureties to appear the first day of the term, himself in 500l. and his sureties in 200l. each.
The Lord Mayor to attend the King about disarming the disaffected in the City.
Col. Rumsey to have his servant come to him. Col. Rumsey tells the Duke that Lord Russell could confess more than Lord Howard knew.
Papers from the Essex Justices concerning Johnson read. Johnson told he has given cause of suspicion and helped to save Stacy from a warrant out against him. Asked concerning his hiring a boat says 'twas only to go afishing. Was never of Mead's congregation. Johnson to find sureties for his appearance next term himself in 1,000l. and two sureties in 500l. each.
White, a preacher, Aaron Smith's landlord, says Smith lodged in his house and told him he was endeavouring to get a pardon. Has not preached this twelve month and goes to the public church. Says Smith went about three or four months ago into the country and stayed about five weeks and said he was going to Wales to serve a scire facias. Nelthorp, West and Goodenough came to see Smith. Discharged without fees.
Information of Owen Callaghan and Mortagh Downey read. To be sent back to Ireland and whipped first. To be sent to Bridewell, if they come to town.
Nothing done on Matthew Mead's petition, or on Lady Alington's.
Young Walcot's petition read. He may have his linen.
Cotton to be let out on security.
Ordinary of Newgate called in says Walcot confessed to him that he knew something of this design but not so much as others. The plot began in Aug. or Sept. on the rejection of Papillon and Dubois. He was drawn into it by the Earl of Shaftesbury, who acquainted him with the design before he went to Holland. He did not propound to himself any earthly advantage, but 'twas out of conscience to preserve the right of the people and liberty of conscience. He did not promise nor undertake to charge the King's guards. There was yet great danger of the plot breaking out. It was laid in Scotland and spread everywhere. In case of any the least mutiny, multitudes would flock in to abet it. They were not under an oath of secrecy. Those that evidenced against him were more guilty than he. He had never seen Lord Russell before he came into court. He could have gone away with Nelthorp, Wade, Norton and one more. He told them he had the gout and would not go. Shepard sent over for Ferguson on Lord Shaftesbury's death. He was at three or four meetings where there was a consult to carry on this plot.
The Lord Mayor says the officers made a particular search for arms.
Wilson, a Scotchman, says he knows nothing of a rising or a plot. Sent Heborn about 9l. to buy a horse. Is of Galloway. Was not of Bothwell Bridge. Has heard Heborn pray. Does not know whether the killing of the Archbishop was murder. Believes he is obliged by the Covenant. [6 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 36.]
July 19. Minutes of proceedings before the Privy Council. Present, his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Conway and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. The information of Ben. Herne about Clayton, a saddler, over against the Artillery Ground. Clayton to be sent for and his books seized and brought to Mr. Secretary.
Letter from Lord Abingdon. Alderman Wright to be bound over and the papers sent to Mr. Secretary.
Letter from Robert Hall of Rye of 10 July.
Torquet called in. The information of F. Low against him read. The complaint appearing grounded in malice, he discharged without fees. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 42.]
July 19.
Norwich.
Protest of the Common Council. On reading the letters patent empowering the Earl of Yarmouth to appoint a deputy Recorder and his deputation to John Warkehouse to be his deputy Recorder, this assembly unanimously declared the said deputation was an infringement of the ancient liberties and privileges of this city and contrary to the late new charter and that the oath of Recorder administered to the said Earl was not the ancient oath of the Recorder but was drawn up by Dr. Hillyard, against which this whole assembly protests, and the committee therein named or the majority of them are within five days or sooner, if they can, to attend the said Earl and endeavour to persuade him to resign his recordership that the city may elect a person to that office whereby the great concerns of the city may be transacted, the poor provided for and justice duly administered, as has been done by former Recorders, otherwise this city will be necessitated to address his Majesty for redress. [Copy. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 59.]
July 19. The information on oath of Benjamin Gosmore. He telling John Self in Thomas Souton's house on the 16th that he heard a gentleman say that the Duke of Monmouth was in Scotland raising an army, Self leaped with joy, saying he was glad with all his heart and hoped to God it might be true and that he would spend his blood for him and they were rogues that would not do the same and that it was no plot as concerning his Majesty's life but imprisonment only till he banished all the Papists, and that they intended to destroy all the Protestant lords and then the parliament men and then they would have a parliament to their own desire and then the day would be their own. He said further that, if the Duke of Monmouth came into England, he would raise men to assist him. [Ibid. No. 60.]
July 19.
Bristol.
The information of Samuel Gale, soap boiler. About the beginning of January 1681[–2] he was invited by Simon Hall and others to become a member of a club, which he believes had been held before at the White Hart and thence held at the Horseshoe in this city the evening of every working day except in fair times. At his first admission he obliged himself with two sureties, whereof Hall was one, by their subscriptions in a book that he should keep secret the debates and transactions at every meeting. He frequented the said club three or four times a week for at least six weeks afterwards. At every meeting a chairman was appointed and their debates concerned matters relating to the government both in church and state. Orders and resolves were made relating to matters of state and entered in several books, which were kept by Joseph Whetham, brotherin-law to Nathaniel Wade. The club consisted of about 120, whereof sometimes about 70 met and sometimes fewer. Nathaniel Wade, Joseph Tily, John Rowe late swordbearer, James Holwey, Thomas Tyler, William Wade, John Hine, Richard Higgins, Dr. Ichabod Chancy, Dr. John Griffith and Joseph Jackson were members and usually frequented the said club. He has seen Col. John Rumsey there, who was received with great expressions of joy. While he frequented the club, 20 or 30 others, some of whom were neither inhabitants nor freemen of this city, were admitted members on the like terms as himself, save that divers members of the King's Head Club, London, some of whom were not inhabitants or freemen of the said city, were admitted without either subscribing or giving surety for secrecy. At the club subscriptions were made for raising considerable sums and members appointed to collect the same, but how the moneys were employed he knows not. Amongst other orders of the club it was entered that whatever member of the King's Head Club should desire to be admitted a member of the Horseshoe Club should be admitted without subscribing or giving security for secrecy. [1¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 61.]
July 19. The information on oath of Jasper Selwyn, the elder, of Frampton-on-Severn, Gloucestershire. About a fortnight before the discovery of the late plot having occasion to see some persons he desired William Clutterbucke, who married Nathaniel Wade's sister, to send for a writ for him, who desired him to forbear till towards Michaelmas for reasons best known to himself. He asked him his reasons and also whether there was like to be any trouble or commotion. He answered, he believed there would or words to that effect. [Ibid. No. 62.]
July 19. The information on oath of John Feild of Wellington, Salop. Two years ago Margery Milward, Mr. Leeke's maid, told him some arms were in Leeke's possession and were hid in a by-place over the hall in his house. He saw some bandoleers there formerly, but cannot say when. He saw some pistols there several times and lately. He had several discourses with Leeke concerning succession and passive obedience, maintaining that, let our King be what he would and do what he would, he was not accountable to any but God. Leeke sometimes told him the following story, that, one Kirke being with the Emperor of Morocco on a great day with them, some of the Emperor's subjects offered a petition, whereupon he was very angry, drew his sword and wounded and killed some of them and commanded the rest to be taken away. They were very unwilling to go. Kirke asking the reason was answered that it was because they were immediately to be thrown over a wall whereon were put hooks to catch them to hang till they died. Kirke telling this story to some asked, how they liked arbitrary government ? The other thing discoursed with Leeke was about the succession, wherein amongst other things he objected that by the laws of England a Papist was not to govern, but the informant cannot say that those words, that the Duke of York was a Papist, were spoken at the same time with the foregoing words. He often heard him speak well of the Duke of Monmouth and he told the deponent that Mr. Forrester brought him into his presence. [1¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 63.]
July 19. The information on oath of Andrew Sockett of Wellington, mercer. William Langley of Wellington told him they had something against William Leeke that concerned his life and would ruin him, and that we have him under our nail and may crush him as they do a flea, and that Jones, a tanner, could tell him more, who told the deponent that Leeke told him he knew there would be a rising, saying to Jones, You will be of our side, I know, and saying, If you will take arms against the Duke of York, I will furnish you with a good horse. The said Langley, Jones and Mr. Field told the deponent that they and Leeke had had several discourses touching the succession and that he said the Duke of York was a Papist and that a Papist ought not to inherit the Crown. About two years since Leeke showed him at his house a printed paper entitled as he remembers A Letter from a Gentleman in the City to a Friend in the Country, which was to prove the King married to the Duke of Monmouth's mother. The deponent told Leeke that the King had made a declaration in Council that he was not married to the said Duke's mother and, if so, how can those printed books be true ? Leeke answered, he that had made so many protestations for the preservation of the Protestant religion and broke them was not to be believed in this. Since Leeke's coming from London about a fortnight since, after the deponent had given notice there were arms in his house, Leeke called at his shop and asked his servant, Where is that rogue, thy master ? who said, I hope my master is no rogue but he is not within. Leeke replied, If he be not well paid for his information, I'll pay him well the next time I meet him. Since the discovery of which business old Mr. Forrester has sent to him for a bill to know what is due to him from him and has paid it off and Richard Bough's wife told the deponent that Mr. Forrester's servant warned her husband that he must deal no more with the deponent notwithstanding that they are far indebted to him. [Nearly 2 pages. Ibid. No. 64.]
July 19. The information on oath of William Leeke. William Forrester lent him a paper or pamphlet concerning the Black Box, which was to prove the Duke of Monmouth's legitimacy, and told him he believed the same would be made out. He never called the Duke of York a Papist or ever said that, if anyone would fight against him, he would find him horse and arms. Jones of Wellington, having done him a mischief in causing his house to be searched twice and otherwise abusing him by ill language, wishing him welcome home and asking how he did, he told him he was never the better for such a rogue as he. Jones called him rogue, and he lighted off his horse and struck him a small blow with his rapier on his face which did him no hurt. He denies that he ever told anyone there would be any insurrection or that he would furnish anyone with horse and arms for it. To the best of his memory he gave Sir Thomas Vernon an account that four or five case of pistols, two carbines and bandoleers came along with the muskets delivered at his house, which were 30 and no more as he has had an account from one of his servants, who told the number when Mr. Forrester's servants fetched them away. The pistols and carbines were fetched away from his house by Mr. William Forrester's servants by his order about three years ago, when he was captain of the horse in Shropshire. One of the carbines was since delivered him by Mr. Forrester's coachman who had broke the stock, which the informant lately got new stocked. The other carbine, he was told, was lost in London. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 65.]
July 19. The information on oath of Thomas Gaywood, Mr. Leeke's clerk. There were in Mr. Leeke's house 30 muskets and some bandoleers, which were taken away by night by two servants of Mr. Forrester or his son. It was then related they were to go to Buildwas. Mr. Leeke had three case of pistols in his house and often rode with pistols. He has heard that six case of pistols came down from London with the said arms but were presently removed to Mr. Forrester's. He saw the case where the arms were, but did not see them and knew not what they were till told by his master's man. When he came to his master he had a clerk named Jonathan Smyth, a Presbyterian, who lodged in Bell Yard last Easter term. Robert Ferrington was at his master's house when the arms were removed and the deponent thought they were to be carried to Ferrington's house at Areson near Wellington. [Ibid. No. 66.]
July 19. The information on oath of William Lowry, Sir John Cochrane's servant, a Scotchman. Sir John Cochrane and his son and Mr. Robert Martin were at Dedford (? Deptford) about 12 June, when the informant and another servant were ordered down with three horses from London to Dedford, where next day he saw his master, his son and Martin. They stayed there about 10 days and often went to London and returned at night. About the 21st they left Dedford and on Tuesday came to Sir Barrington Bowser's (Bouchier's) house at Bellingbrough (Benningbrough), on Wednesday to Scampston to Mr. St. Quinton's and on Thursday to Boynton, Sir Thomas Strickland's house, where at night his master asked him what wages were due to him and paid part and left him to sell a horse and they were to reckon at their next meeting. Next day about 5 in the morning his master, his son and Martin took horse, Mr. Calvert and Duke Baine, the gardener, with them, and rode, he believes, towards the shore, where, as he was told by Duke, they were gone to the ships. He never heard any of them speak of going by sea to any place. At Sir Barrington's house Martin desired him and John Thompson his fellow servant, and his master's son John, to call him Douglas, which name he was called by till he left Boynton. John Cochrane desired him and Thompson to call him John Strickland, as they travelled from Dedford to Boynton. The first day's journey John Cochrane desired the servants to call his father Mr. Parson, by which name he was called till he came to Bellingbrooke, where he was known. The deponent knew the said Martin in Scotland. He was clerk to the justiciary after Bothwell Bridge. [Nearly 2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 67.]
July 19. The information on oath of John Thompson, Sir John Cochrane's servant. (To the same effect as the last.) [Ibid. No. 68.]
July 19. The information on oath of John Rickaby of Bridlington Quay, mariner. About 10 on Thursday 28 June last John Grimston of Dringa came to his house and told him Mr. W. Strickland of Boynton desired to speak with him. He went to Boynton, where he found Mr. Strickland with a gentleman, who Mr. Strickland said was Sir John Cochrane, and his son and another gentleman, whose name he never heard. Sir John asked if he could help him to a ship to carry him and his son to the Brill, pretending he was going to place his son at Utrecht University. He told him no ship was then in the piers going beyond sea, and told Sir John they would ask 15 or 20l. for going to Holland with two passengers. Sir John said that was not much. The informant went home, where he found a vessel come in, Thomas Bullock master, whom he told that two gentlemen desired to go for Holland and he believed they would give 15 or 20l. for their passage. The master answered he was intended for Fosdike betwixt Lynn and Boston, but thought he might go for Holland. About sunset James Calvert, a Nonconformist parson belonging to the said Mr. Strickland's family, came, whom the informant told that he believed the gentlemen might get passage in Bullock's ship. Calvert then went, whither the informant does not know. He believes they went on board to the south of this port but how he knows not. Sir John Cochrane desired his secrecy. He saw the said master last Sunday at the church door at Bridlington. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 69.]
July 19. The information on oath of John Grimston. On Thursday 28 June travelling with Mr. W. Strickland, Sir Thomas Strickland's son, he met about two miles from Boynton Sir John Cochrane, his son, and a gentleman that went by the name of Douglas. They returned to Boynton with Sir John. (Describes his being sent to Rickaby as in the last information.) On his going afterwards with Mr. Strickland to Connystrop, Sir John desired him to make haste home next morning that he might see him before he went. At his return to Boynton next day he found the three gentlemen gone. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 70.]
July 19. The information on oath of James Calvert. (Describing the arrival of Sir John and his company at Boynton and the deponent's going to Bridlington to look for a ship, as in the previous informations.) He returned to Boynton and told Sir John they (meaning Rickaby) were looking after a ship for him. About 6 next morning he, with the three gentlemen and Duke Baine, Sir Thomas' gardener, went to the seaside near Barmston Dock, where they stayed about half an hour, and signs being made by Sir John and others by waving their hats a boat came from a ship riding near the shore which carried the three gentlemen to the ship. When he saw the boat near the ship, he and Duke went back to Boynton. Sir John ordered his servants to stay at Boynton, till he returned or they heard further from him. A letter from Sir John's son was brought him, thanking all at Boynton and especially Mr. Strickland and himself and nothing else. At Sir John's first coming to Boynton, he desired that the business should be kept private and no noise made of it. Sir John married Sir Thomas' sister. [1½ pages. Ibid. No. 71.]
July 19.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Sheriffs of London after reciting that William Russell has been found guilty of high treason and is to suffer the pains and forfeitures thereof, which is to be drawn, hanged and quartered, for certain considerations and in respect that he is the eldest son of a peer, for causing execution of him to be done only as is hereafter directed, viz., forthwith to bring him to a scaffold by them to be erected in some convenient place in Great Lincoln's Inn Fields and his head then and there forthwith on the said scaffold to cause to be stricken off and clearly severed from his body and this execution to be done on Saturday, the 21st instant. [Nearly 2 pages. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 193.]
July 19.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Sheriff of London. By his Majesty's command sending him the above warrant. [Ibid. p. 194.]
July 19. Secretary Jenkins to the Lieutenant of the Tower. Signifying his Majesty's pleasure that Joseph Ducasse, servant to Algernon Sydney, now a prisoner in the Tower, be admitted to wait on his master as often as he shall desire at seasonable times in the presence of a warder. [Ibid. p. 208.]
July 19. Order that Mr. James Paul have access to Noyes to speak with him about his affairs in the hearing of Legat, the messenger. Minute. [Ibid. p. 211.]
July 19. Order to Mr. Tracey to deliver Capt. Walcot's trunk to his son. Minute. [Ibid. p. 213.]
July 19. Secretary Jenkins to the Earl of Abingdon. His Majesty on reading your letter of yesterday to me quickly observed how useful at this time so exact a diligence as yours in searching for arms will prove in other parts. He has often concluded with himself that the Fanatics have hid the greatest part of their arms and that there must be extreme diligence to find them out. It is his direction that Alderman Wright of Oxford be bound with two sureties in a considerable sum, such as you shall think fit, to keep the peace for the next 12 months. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 339.]
July 19. Secretary Jenkins to the Mayor of Sarum. Owen Callaghan and Murtagh Downey are landed from Ireland at Topsham. They have given in some depositions at Exeter of that nature that his Majesty believes they are come over to set up for witnesses for the discovery of this conspiracy. They have been here once already and given cause to all good men to abominate their designs and practices. His Majesty, who abhors false swearing, would have the severity of the law executed against them as vagrants and then not suffer them to come for London but send them back to Ireland the way they came. [Ibid. p. 340.]
July 19. Secretary Jenkins to the Mayor of Exeter. Callaghan and Downey have sworn such incredible and ridiculous things that his Majesty (though he disapproves of nothing the Justices have done, it being their duty to take the depositions) would have them stopped from coming further towards London, since he sees plainly it is their design to set up for witnesses, and would have them punished for vagrants and sent back to Ireland. I am afraid they are gone out of your reach, however his Majesty commanded me to write to you of them. [Ibid.]
July 19.
Whitehall.
Commission to Henry Peyton to be lieutenant to Capt. Henry Bonde's foot company in the Holland regiment. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 69, p. 50.]
[July ? 20.] Crispe Grainge, brewer, to the King. Petition for his release on bail. Was taken into custody about 15 days ago (on 5 July) and has so continued to the great prejudice of his trade. Is not conscious of any misdemeanour against his Majesty or his government. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 72.]
Similar petition to the same effect. [Ibid. No. 73.]
[July 20.] Thomas Atterbury to Secretary Jenkins. Yesterday a constable brought hither Hunt, an apothecary, against whom warrants have been out in the beginning of the discovery of the plot. Lord Sunderland gave him me in custody with his warrant. The constable attends without to be satisfied of his charges [Ibid. No. 74.]
July 20. James Jackson to Secretary Jenkins. Richard Halster of Chertsey, an attorney and an officer in the Trained Bands, has informed me that he believes Stint, a solicitor of the Temple, has been a solicitor in the business of those most horrid traitors. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 75.]
July 20.
Dorking.
Sir Adam Browne to his son, Ambrose, at Catherine Street, Strand. I could wish the Secretary knew of my apprehensions. First I think it very necessary that strict orders be issued for examining all persons who ride or go armed, for I observe that many young fellows, who look like apprentices or foremen, have very good horses and pistols before them, whether well affected or not, who knows. Next there are in Ebbesham on pretence of drinking the waters at least 3 or 4 hundred good horses and most of them have pistols, so, if they are such as I suspect many to be, they have a brave opportunity to make a body before a militia troop can be half called together. If a party of horse were sent from London to examine what arms everyone has and how qualified to ride with them, I doubt not many could be found that would not pass muster. There is Sir John Thompson, who married Anglesey's daughter, and Sir Robert Clayton, likewise Sir William Gulston's house not searched, all dangerous. [Ibid. No. 76.]
[July] 20.
Sarum, 11 a.m.
Andrew Baden, Mayor, to Secretary Jenkins. Our messenger is come back, who seized the two Irishmen you mention and left them in custody of the Alderman of Basingstoke. I believe they will be returned this way and I will secure them, if they come here, till your further order. [Misdated 22 June, but endorsed 22 July. Ibid. No. 77.]
July 20.
Burlington Key.
Sir John Legard and William and Richard Osbaldeston to the Duke of Somerset. We gave you an account from Beverley at our general meeting there on the 11th that we had in observance of your directions sent out our warrants into all the East Riding for a search for arms, of which in our division we have taken an account and none of moment have been found. At that meeting an information came of some suspicious persons escaped from Burlington Key. Since our return home we have made further inquiry and taken the informations of such as we can meet with and find to have been instrumental in the escapes. We enclose the informations, but the master that carried over the parties mentioned is at sea and not to be met with. We have taken bail for John Rickaby and John Grimston to appear at the next York assizes, and the Nonconformist minister, James Calvert, and William Lowry and John Thompson, Sir John Cochrane's servants, not being able to find good bail, we have ordered a warrant to convey them to York Castle. The customers that are of late come into the places of collectors and those that officiate otherwise at Burlington Key are but of ill reputation, but Mr. Aslaby, late collector, and Mr. Fish and Mr. Robinson were to us of known loyalty and integrity. [Ibid. No. 78.]
July 20.
Beverley.
— to Lord Dartmouth. Lately at a meeting of the deputy lieutenants here they gave orders for searching many places for arms but out of civility did not search Sir John Hotham's house, where (as it has since been informed) were store of arms and at least 30 or 40 great saddles, which on a fright he has discovered, pretending they were given or lent him by Lord Belasyse, when Lord Lieutenant of this Riding. If so, they were the King's arms, being given out of the store at Hull, and ought to have been returned, but he kept them to another purpose, and you, being Master of the Ordnance, ought to have an account of them. Informations are given by myself and another to both Secretaries of State of some strange passages by Sir John and Alderman Gray of this town, that before the discovery of the plot set up venison feasts to all the trades and companies here and this Gray appeared as chief guest at those feasts and caressed the Wardens and the Fanatic party in them with wine etc. and broached factious discourses against the government but spitefully against his Royal Highness, promoted secret meetings with the Fanatic party, told them publicly there were designs to root out the Protestant religion and bring in Popery, advised them to stand for their religion and Sir John Hotham and he would stand by them and endeavoured to inflame this whole corporation. This Gray was elected in the late rebellion, refused this week with another Alderman, Johnson his kinsman, to subscribe an address sent up by the Mayor and other honest Aldermen to his Majesty, held a private conference that very day with Sir John, and at his return told Alderman Dymock, an honest, loyal man, how the Mayor and the Aldermen that had signed were rogues, villains and knaves for doing so and that they had betrayed the town, with other most disloyal expressions, as will be deposed if called before the King and Council with much more to render this Gray and his agents Tadman, Thomas Wilson and Robert Browne dangerous persons. I doubt not some account hereof has been given to both Secretaries. Much villainy will appear, if searched into. [2½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 79.]
July 20.
Beverley.
The same to the Earl of Sunderland. (About Hotham and Gray to the same effect as the last.) [3 pages. Ibid. No. 80.]
July 20.
Beverley.
— to [Secretary Jenkins]. (About Hotham and Gray to the same effect as the last two letters.) [3 pages. Ibid. No. 81.]
July 20.
Eaton Hastings.
Thomas Steevens to Charles Gerrard. Roger Pike is my author of what Mr. Trenchard said in the hearing of Mr. Letton, viz., that he had already listed 2,000 men and would list 4,000 more. He further said several others heard him. If you please to speak with Pike he never fails coming to Wantage market. [Ibid. No. 82.]
[July 20.] John Speke to his brother, Hugh Speke. My mother is much concerned for you and is much ashamed to hear of your wickedness. She wishes your bail for 200l. were at liberty by the Attorney General and advises you are like to be in trouble for a cheat at play and that Sir John lately got 1,500l. at play etc. She wishes you were out of London. I have had but one letter from her about it, about a week since, and accordingly sent one to you desiring you to remove out of London to Dillington. (The rest of the letter describes at great length his dispute with Lady Churchill and others about the will of Lady Prideaux.) [3½ pages. Undated but with postmark of 20 July. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 83.]
July 20. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Present, his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland, Rochester and Conway and Secretary Jenkins. Bradon called in says he went to Sir J. Frederick and Sir R. Clayton about the child's information concerning the death of Lord Essex. Mr. Nosworthy told him 'twas fit to go to a Justice first and bade him go to Sir J. Lawrence. Is a student of the Inner Temple, a Cornishman. He went to Sir H. Capel, Mr. Glanvil advised him to go to him. He knew of this business the Monday night. The little boy called in, Mr. Edwards' son. Says he did not see it, but was afraid to be beaten for staying from school and so told this story first to his sister and then to his father. Bradon heard of it and came to his father about it and writ the paper and bade him put his hand to it. He told his father that Lord Essex had cut his throat and that he saw a razor thrown out of the window. The sister says she heard her brother say that being in the Tower he saw a hand come out of the window and fling out a razor and would have taken it up but that a maid, he did not know who, took it up before him. This was Friday morning. He was by Capt. Cheek's stable when Lord Essex killed himself. Bradon called in says he first acquainted with this business the father, mother and sister to the father and three other gentlewomen. The boy says before him he did not see the razor or know anything else mentioned in the information. Says Sir H. Capel told him it was not proper for himself to stir in it. He might go to the Secretary and, on his asking if he might go to the Recorder, said 'twould be well for him to go. Confesses he goes to conventicles. Because Sir R. Clayton would not take the deposition alone, he would not let him do it. The child tells the King that on his faith he now tells the truth that he saw no such thing as is mentioned in his information. Bradon to be bound in 2,000l. with two sureties of 1,000l. each to appear next term to answer to what shall be objected against him for practising with a child of 12½ in order to subornation of perjury. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 43.]
July 20. The examination of Henry Bucke, apprentice to John Noyes. At 10 at night last Tuesday sennight he burnt several printed papers in his master's house, all of which were printed addresses to Sir Patience Ward when Lord Mayor, except one about the election of sheriffs. He had no order from his master to do it but Mr. Lodwick had looked them out to be burnt, he having, as he said, an intent to destroy all papers that might be dangerous to his master. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 84.]
July 20. The further information on oath of William Leeke. When William Forrester went up to the last Westminster parliament he went with him on horseback to Coventry with 5 or 6 more in company all armed with pistols and swords and two of his servants with carbines. Mr. Forrester then giving out to him that he and the other parliament men, who, as he said, were to meet at Coventry, whose names, as the informant remembers, were Lord Macclesfield, Lord Brandon or his brother, Col. Whitley, Sir John Bowyer, Sir Richard Corbett besides others, were in danger of being set upon in their journey by the Papists, for which purpose they all met at Coventry well armed, except Sir Richard Corbett, who had no arms visible, he coming up in the hackney coach. Mr. Forrester told him that Lord Shaftesbury and Lord Herbert or Sir Thomas Armstrong (he cannot remember which) were to meet those parliament men at Highgate to consult of matters in relation to that parliament, but did not say what. Most of the said parliament men were lodged at the Star in Coventry but Mr. Forrester and Sir Richard Corbett at the Bull, whence they went to the Star to wait on the others there. When Mr. Forrester came back, he told the informant that the company at the Star were all bravely armed and that Col. Whitley had a footman who rode behind the coach with a blunderbuss in his hand ready mounted for their defence. Next morning the informant returned home. On the road to Coventry they met some travellers on foot and some of the servants asked who they were for, York or Monmouth. They said for Monmouth. Asked again whether they would fight for him they replied, they would. Mr. Forrester said they were honest fellows. Mr. Forrester was always very zealous for the Duke of Monmouth's interest and the informant has often heard him argue for his title to the Crown after the King's death in relation to his legitimacy. He has heard Forrester say that if the King should die he would take part with Monmouth against the Duke of York. He believes that the arms provided by Forrester were for that purpose, for he cannot imagine what else he should do with them. Mr. Forrester in June, 1680, bought the muskets, carbines, pistols, bandoleers and a barrel of powder which were lodged a considerable time at the informant's house and afterwards fetched away by Forrester's servants. Mr. Forrester afterwards bought 20 more muskets, about 12 of which were hung up in the kitchen at Watling Street, till the plot was discovered, since which, as the informant has heard, Forrester took them down and hid them. Forrester provided about 50 pikes, as the informant believes, for young Mr. Forrester took him into the bakehouse at Watling Street and showed him several long clefts of ash, which lay there to season and which he said were to make pikes, but he never saw them since they were made up. The informant is certain that these pikes were made since the heat of the Popish plot was quite over and believes they were made since the Oxford parliament, and Mr. Forrester once showed him in his man Job Grosvenor's chamber, who is since dead, a suit of armour, back, breast and gauntlet, and a steel cap, as he took it to be by the weight, fixed into a hat. He saw a considerable quantity of musket and pistol bullets there, which Forrester told him were made for him by Job Grosvenor. The informant asking why he provided so many arms, he told him he was advised to it and that several other gentlemen as Lord Brandon, Col. Whitley, Sir John Bowyer, Mr. Charlton, Mr. Leveson and others had done the like. There used to hang in Mr. Forrester's chamber at Watling Street four or five case of pistols besides those sent down with the 30 muskets. The informant knows nothing of any design against the government Mr. Forrester may be concerned in, otherwise than what he has already declared, but conjectures that Mr. Woodhouse of Sheriff Hales is the likeliest man to be privy to any such design. When old Mr. Forrester lately sent up his man, Harding, to London to acquaint his son with what was acted here, he charged his family that the informant should not be acquainted therewith, and he has since sent up his other man to the like purpose. The informant was lately desired by Mrs. Cycilly Forrester to search her brother the said Mr. Forrester's closet at Watling Street, where he found two or three parts of the History of Popish Successors and some lampoons, satires and such papers, which he had not liberty to read, and delivered them to her, who told him since she had burnt them. As the informant came lately down from London in the hackney coach, discoursing with Sir Thomas Pearshall concerning the plot, he told him that he believed Lord Brandon was in it, for he had heard that, when the Duke of Monmouth was in Cheshire, Lord Brandon held his stirrup when he was getting on horseback (I think he said it was at Lord Brandon's house) and swore, By God you shall be King. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 429, No. 85.]
[July 20?] Information of a person living in Spitalfields, well known to Mr. West, who undertook to bring in 2 or 300 men by his own interest. On the back are memoranda by Jenkins, " Quarter sessions at Cornwall, Plymouth. — Sir T. Duppa, 20 July." [Ibid. No. 86.]
[July 20.]
London.
"The Execution and Confession with the behaviour and speeches of Capt. Thomas Walcot, William Hone and John Rouse," giving an account of their trials and execution, which fully appear from State Trials, Vol. IX. [Printed by J. Grantham. S.P. Dom., Car. II. Case G.]
July 20.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Joseph Harvey, sergeant-at-arms, to search all suspected places particularly in the house of Andrew Ducqua in Covent Garden, where it is suspected some of the persons mentioned in the late proclamations may be concealed, and having found any of them to bring them in safe custody before the Earl of Sunderland. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 20.]
July 20.
Whitehall.
The Earl of Sunderland to Thomas Cheek, Lieutenant of the Tower. Signifying his Majesty's pleasure that Mrs. Elizabeth Braman, wife of John Braman, a prisoner in the Tower, be admitted to her husband, but on condition that she remain with him till his Majesty's further pleasure. [S. P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 20.]
July 20.
Whitehall.
Warrant to any of the messengers to search as in the above warrant and particularly in the house of Thomas Cooke in St. George's Fields, Southwark. Minute. [Ibid.]
July 20. Warrant to Thomas Atterbury to take into custody — Hunt, an apothecary, to answer to such treasonable matters as shall be objected against him. Minute. [Ibid. p. 21.]
July 20.
The Council Chamber, Dublin.
The Lord Deputy and the Privy Council to Secretary Jenkins. Dame Jane Ormsby having petitioned his Majesty that her husband Sir Edward Ormsby being found a lunatic, the guardianship of him and his estate might be granted her, and his brother Gilbert Ormsby having petitioned against granting it to her, he and she appeared before us and he declared that he was sorry for inserting those scandalous expressions of her in his petition and was willing to make acknowledgement to her of his offence, and several of the Board having declared their observation of her fair carriage and good affection towards her husband gave us reason to believe her innocent of those imputations and, no reason appearing against granting the said guardianship to her, we offer that the directions for suspending the proceedings relating to granting the said guardianship to her be superseded and that we may receive his Majesty's directions. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 343, No. 140.]
[Before July 21.] John Yorke, Keeper of the Cambridgeshire gaol at Cambridge, to the King. Petition for payment of the reward of 100l. promised in the proclamation for the apprehension of William Hone, who was committed to his custody 25 June last on suspicion of horse stealing, but whom he arrested next day on receiving the proclamation. (Referred 21 July, 1683, see Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. VII, p. 869.) [S.P. Dom., Car II. 429, No. 87.]