Charles II: July 11-15, 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 11-15, 1683', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1683 July-September, (London, 1934) pp. 94-129. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1683-jul-sep/pp94-129 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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July 11-15, 1683

July 11.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to—. Immediately on the receipt of yours of the 9th I laid it before his Majesty with the enclosed information. His order was that I should thank you and next that I should send this express to you post haste to receive the shepherd you have secured into safe custody in order to bring him up to be examined here and to do further as to law shall appertain. It is of great consequence that the said shepherd be sent hither with all speed and with a good guard and you are desired, as far as your health will permit, to assist the bearer. [Copy. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 67.]
July 11.
[Read.]
William Adams to Justice Warcupp. I had long ere this, but for your being out of town, let you know my fears that some mischief is intended against his Royal Highness, for I have heard several gentlemen say they would kill him and all that assisted him, if ever he came into England, and they did not doubt to have help enough, but he was then out of their reach, but now he is returned what harm may be done him I know not. I would have given you this advice by word of mouth but feared being ruined by some men, who would do it, if possible. [Ibid. No. 68.]
July 11. The information on oath of William Adams of the Old Bailey, tobacconist, taken before Justice Warcupp. Hugh Westlake of Birch Court, Temple, said in the presence of himself, Stephen College and John Parsons of the Temple that he would kill all that should oppose Sir Robert Peyton's election and would kill the Duke of York. Capt. Baker in the presence of several particularly Mr. Archbold swore, God damn me, I will pistol the Duke of York. If ever I meet him I will send a brace of bullets into his head, because he is a villain and a traitor against his brother. Sir Robert Peyton in the presence of the informant and Bryan Ayloffe and Hugh Ryder, both living in the Old Bailey, after speaking vilifying words of the Prince of Orange and several great persons, said, Hang the King, if he cannot protect me from the Parliament. Renew, a horse-seller, said about the time of Fitzharris' trial, The King is a Papist. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 69.]
Summary of the above information. [Ibid. No. 70.]
July 11.
Bawnton near Cirencester.
James Georges to [the Duke of Beaufort]. (About the discovery of bullets in the church there mentioned in former letters.) I have examined Willett and Perry, the former churchwardens, and all I can get from them is that they were prepared in the time of the Isle of Purbeck business for the defence of the King and kingdom. When demanded why they did not discover them, when their houses were searched, Willet answered he did not know, and declaring to Perry that all loyal subjects were bound to give thanks for the discovery of the plot, he answered, they were so, if it were a plot, though the proclamation was proclaimed in the market at the cross but the Monday before, on which answers I bound them to their good behaviour till further directions, being satisfied of their disaffection to the government, they having often declared their good liking of the acting of the Duke of Monmouth and Lord Shaftesbury, as I have been credibily informed, and having ever refused to sign any address to his Majesty. I beg your Grace's commands for the disposing of the said bullets. [Ibid. No. 71.] Probably enclosed,
July 11. The information of Rowland Freeman of Cirencester taken before James Georges. On reading a narrative lately written by Mr. Dangerfield, the informant speaking in honour of the Duke of York to Thomas Perry, he replied that the informant should escape as little as any others if that plot went on, which the said narrative charged the Duke of York to be concerned in against his Majesty. He said to Perry he would not believe every rogue's narrative against so good a prince. Perry highly commended the said narrative in all things therein contained against the Duke. [Ibid. No. 71 I.]
July 11.
Salop.
George Weld to Secretary Jenkins. Sending by Sir Thomas Vernon's request the most material depositions yet taken in this county.—He will be very shortly in London and will then give you a full account of whatever has come to the knowledge of the deputy lieutenants of this county. [Ibid. No. 72.] Enclosed,
July 11. The informations of Thomas Lloyd, waggoner, and William Leeke. (To the same effect as the examinations of Kendrick and Leeke calendared ante, p. 82.) [Ibid. Nos. 72 i, ii.]
July 11. The information on oath of William Hunt, servant to Francis Forrester. He with James Cell, servant of William Forrester, son of the said Francis Forrester, last Friday sennight in the night removed from the house of William Leeke thirty muskets and a barrel and several collars of bandoleers by order of old Mr. Forrester to an outhouse near Mr. Forrester's dwelling-house, and the said arms were hid in a hole made in the ground in the said house and eighteen swords and seventeen belts were put in with them. [Ibid. No. 72 III.]
July 11. The information of Richard —, tanner, taken before George Weld and John Wolryche. About two years ago saw several muskets etc. at the house of William Leeke, who told him, if he would buy arms for the Duke of Monmouth against the Duke of York, he would furnish him with them. Describes how he was assaulted by Leeke. (Torn so as to be almost unintelligible.) [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 72 IV.]
July 11.
Welbeck.
The Duke of Newcastle to Secretary Jenkins. I forgot to put in my letter that the cornet staff mentioned in the list of arms taken in Mr. Gregory's house was the same that carried the colours of my cousin, Robert Pierrepont, who had a troop in my volunteer regiment of horse in '60 and then Gregory was the cornet. I trouble you with this that he may not be thought to have this on ill intent. I have had a great respect for him but for the last 5 years he has joined with the factious, but I hope he will not do so any more. [Ibid. No. 73.]
July 11.
Londesburgh.
The Earl of Burlington to Secretary Jenkins. I received yours of the 7th and heartily wish that those six Scotchmen who are now carrying up may be safely delivered to you, for by Sir John Reresby's account of them they seem very dangerous persons and I believe came into this kingdom to do mischief. At a meeting I had yesterday with Sir John about this and other matters, we were both of opinion that the carrying them up should be suspended till a strong guard were sent, since we had none to do it, but they being to be put into the Sheriff's hands by Habeas Corpus all we could do was to recommend the strict care of them to the guard employed by the Sheriff, which I am sure Sir John will not fail to do. I have desired him for two or three days to be at some public meetings in the country, where his Majesty will require his presence, and therefore I hope he will be excused for it.
Though a person with one eye has been lately taken and is now in York gaol, I am confident it is not Rumbold, since he is an Englishman and he in custody a Scotchman, and by the examinations Sir John has taken of him is, I conceive, a very dangerous and desperate traitor, but Sir John will give you a fuller account. I doubt not you will think him fit to be brought up in safe custody and I must tell you that under the name of pedlars so many Scotchmen frequently come in that I doubt they make use of that pretence for other and bad ends and therefore, as many of them have been lately seized and some on suspicion kept in custody at York, till they could give a good account of themselves, so I have desired that at this sessions the Justices would take such course as the law enables them to do, which will put a stop to this inconvenience. I hope very shortly to give you an account of what we have done about seizing the arms of those suspected to be disaffected. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 74.]
July 11.
York.
Sir John Reresby to Secretary Jenkins. Since my last another Scotchman taken by my first inquiry about Doncaster was brought to the gaol here. He seems a dangerous fellow, as you will find by his enclosed examination, and confessed, as he tells me, little of what you will see there before the Justice by whom he stands committed. When he and the 6 Scotchmen, who parted hence to-day, first met in gaol, they seemed acquainted but denied to be so afterwards. I have since re-examined them but find no other matter but what I transmitted in my last, only I omitted that one (I think John Cook) was in a great disorder as he was examined and fell down in a swoon but pretended, returning presently to himself, that it was only an effect of wind. I fear such emissaries as they from Scotland did not come to contrive and carry intelligence as to the plot, but to be active therein, when it broke out. We have observed in some parts of this county that greater numbers of Scotch pedlars than usual within the last 10 or 12 months flocked to us and especially to the most remarkable places for faction and have sold godly bukes, as they called them, and pamphlets from Scotland, which occasioned our order of sessions at Doncaster 6 months ago and since at Pomfret 3 months ago that they should be whipped and passed for vagrants to their own country according to the Queen's statute. Having advised yesterday with Lord Burlington I have thoughts of going to our sessions held this and next week to promote some things for his Majesty's service and among them to advise a general search to be made for rogues and vagrants, amongst which pedlars and petty chapmen are comprised by that statute, of all nations to be carried before the next Justice to be examined and, if found dangerous, to be secured, the rest to be punished and passed according to law. The Lord Lieutenant has ordered his deputies to cause a most strict search to be made for arms, which will be speedily put in execution through this Riding. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 75.]
July 11.
York.
Edward Thompson to Secretary Jenkins. In obedience to the commands signified by your letter of the 7th I have discharged the Scotsmen here on bail, they having generally declared their innocence as to the present plot as well as that at Bothwell Bridge with an abhorrence of those principles. I have given the messenger all the assistance in my power. He set forwards this morning with his 6 prisoners under a very good guard from the High Sheriff. I shall readily comply with anything Sir John Reresby offers for the King's service and cannot imagine any misunderstanding can be between us. Pray believe of this city and so we beg you to represent to his Majesty, that no corporation have more loyal hearts nor will be readier with their lives and fortunes to defend his person, crown and dignity nor are any more sensible of nor more thankful for the great blessing God has bestowed on the kingdom in the happy deliverance of himself and his royal brother. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 76.]
July 11.
Fowberry.
Col. Will. Strother to Secretary Jenkins. I still continue parties of my dragoons on those roads nigh the Borders and have examined all travellers. The postmaster of Belford brought me your command with the enclosed examination at Ware. I shall take all the care I can in it here and have sent a copy of the examination to Col. Graham of Claverhouse and Capt. Urquhart, who commands the forces on the Scotch side. Yesterday morning, being informed of several fled from Scotland from justice into England now in the time of the judges' circuit, which I suppose is for the test, I immediately sent a party to look after them and took 6 and sent them to the Earl of Home, Sheriff of the Merse, and shall still be searching for those fugitives. The enclosed is a copy of what came from Lord Grey's friend to his steward at Chillingham. [Ibid. No. 77.]
[July 11 ?] Mr. Lea's information concerning John Armiger. Met Armiger and offered him some discourse. He told me he heard some buzzing about but knew no truth, till Mr. Loyle acquainted him with it and that he was ready. Some time after he told me his wife had brought him a sword out of the country that was at Worcester fight and that he had buff breeches, coat and cap and that his wife desired him not to stay out late, for fear the alarm should be in the night and he should not be ready. I was sometimes with him and Bateman, where we discoursed of seizing the King and the Duke, the Tower, City, Whitehall etc., and Armiger said there would be no want of help. Sometime after I met him again alone and he told me he had been with Richard Cromwell, Protector, and that he had appointed him other work, viz., to inquire after news amongst the Tories. In the beginning of June he told me How had sworn against me and that he understood messengers were looking after me and asked whether I did not think him a fit person to inquire after news and bade me have a care of myself and not be daunted, for the business would go on. He also told me that Bateman was gone another way to see after me and afterwards came to me to Mr. Rouse's to encourage me, not doubting but the business would go on. Afterwards, I being in disguise in the City, he told me he had railed against me to the Tories, but said, he hoped we shall catch them at last. [1¼ page. Ibid. No. 78.]
July 11. Minutes of proceedings in Council. Present his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. Paper taken from Walcot by Richardson's man to be put into Mr. Attorney's hands.
Rider says he never heard Sir R. Peyton speak slightly of the King. Sir R. Peyton discharged.
Sir Nathaniel Johnson called in says Shepard will come in voluntarily to be a witness for the King. Mr. Attorney to give a subpœna for him.
Mr. Secretary to write to Mr. Waldron that Joan Tackbread give her recognizance to be forthcoming.
Armiger says he has been absent for fear of an arrest. He knows Lea and told him one How had sworn against him. Has been with him at Thomas' coffee-house. Knows nothing of any design. Lea says he has discoursed with Armiger touching the rising betwixt May and June and has been in company with him and Bateman. Armiger says he never spoke with him of arms or design against the King. Says Lea asked what arms he had in case of an invasion. Remembers Bateman was extolling the Duke of Monmouth. Lea says he discoursed of the whole matter of the rising with Armiger. Warrant to commit Armiger to the Marshalsea.
Lea says Read, an apothecary in Southwark, discoursed with him of the rising and said he was willing to assist, but would not be trepanned out of his life. Goodenough told him all the Protestant lords but two were concerned. Atherton told him that Steward in Bartholomew Close said 300 Scotchmen in town would assist in the business. Had heard Goodenough and Hone say some of the red coats would come over to them. Heard Goodenough say that some were near the King that were for them.
Anthony Row called in says he never heard of an insurrection. He saw the Duke of Monmouth at the Duchess' lodgings the night before the King came to town and saw Sir T. Armstrong then and neither of them since.
Col. Romsey called in. Proposes that to-morrow the Trained Bands may be ready in all places. Says they hoped to get some of the footguards to come over to them but despaired of the horse.
A chamber to be provided at the Old Bailey for the convenience of the witnesses. Mr. Graham to take care of it.
Mr. Secretary to make further inquiry concerning the keeping open house at Taunton.
Pennington owns the writing of the letter to Lord Lovelace and says it was that Sir J. Burlace intended to be bail for him.
Lord Howard says it was Lord Essex himself told the lords at the meeting they had persuaded Lord Salisbury to be engaged with them.
Received from the Earl of Middleton an examination of Earlston, of 5 July. Original letter about trade. Two letters of Baillie of Jerviswood to be compared with the letter of trade. [4 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 12.]
July 11. Other minutes of proceedings before the Council. Some identical with those of the second meeting of 10 July. The new matter is as follows:—The boy from whom Sir F. Compton's men took the letter at Brentford says he had it from Lady Lovelace.
Simon Maine called in. Knows of no design. Is acquainted with Aaron Smith. Never heard him revile the King. Has written several, but none of late. Never had a copy of the Quceres. Never heard of 800 men in readiness. Serjeant Russell, Sir Ralph Verney and Capt. Sandys know him. Goes to the parish church.
Adams called in. Peyton to be sent for in custody. The persons before whom the words were spoke to be subpœnaed.
Spencer, Lord Russell's gentleman of the horse, offered to bribe the jury and there were others. 50,000l. offered the King to save his life.
Sir. P Ll[oyd] to deliver Walcot's son his leave to come from Ireland.
Owen, a lawyer, at the upper end of New Southampton Buildings.
Lord Howard said Walcot said, men were of opinion it was best to begin at the head. When the Duke of Monmouth heard there was to be an attempt on the King he said, Sure it could not be. Lord Grey said, if it was attempted, it was impossible it should fail. Lord Shaftesbury told him that Lord Herbert was concerned in it.
Mr. Freke. Knows Ferguson, Wade, Goodenough, West. Was but once at Bourne's with Ferguson about his being indicted.
Queries. What directions have been given about seizing Lord Melvin (Melville). Whether orders sent to the Tower about lodgings with the officers of the Ordnance and the Mint?
Lady Lovelace's boy examined about the letter. Mr. Pennington gave it him about 12 at night at Mrs. Drake's. Pennington to be found every day there.
Mr. Gilmore called in. Forbes has lodged there three quarters of a year. Sir T. Armstrong lodged with Forbes the Saturday and Sunday after the proclamation came out against them. Mr. Pennington to be sent for about the letter.
Anthony Row to attend his Majesty.
Armiger called in. Says not half of what Lea says is true. Has been of the Train Bands these 7 years. Pretends he absconded for debt. Lea says they talked of the whole rising and the management of it (this was at the Half Moon tavern) between Armiger and Bateman.
Lea informs about Read, an apothecary in Southwark, that he was at the Salutation in Lombard Street with Thatchell, where they discoursed the whole matter. Hone said some of the guards would come over to them, if the King and Duke were taken off, and that the lawyers gave a good reason for it, because they would then have no commission. Goodenough said some near the King.
Bourne called in. Says Ayliffe was with West in buying the arms.
Mr. Pennington called in. Heard the report of Lord Lovelace's being sent for at Garroway's.
Sir John Burlace said he [? heard] Lord of Essex himself gave an account of Lord Salisbury's having consented to be the seventh. [4 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 79.]
July 11. Additional minutes. Richard Hellmeer to be examined. John Sparrey to be sent for in custody. Evans, the messenger, knows where they live. Armiger to be sent to the Marshalsea. To send for all the men the 6 Scotch pedlars traded with. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 80.]
July 11. Further minutes. Read, an apothecary, and Steward, a Scotchman, to be sent for. The King will send some of his troops to Smithfield to aid the Lord Mayor. The Lord Mayor to take care of Wapping and Moorfields. A troop of horse is at Lambeth and another at Bow. [Ibid. No. 81.]
July 11. The further information of Robert West. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 426.) [Ibid. No. 82.]
July 11. A continuation of the former narrative of Lord Howard of Escrick. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 434.) [Ibid. No. 83.]
July 11. A note taken from Walcot by Capt. Richardson. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 450.) [Ibid. No. 84.]
July 11.
Whitehall.
The King to Thomas Cheeke, Lieutenant of the Tower. After reciting that there is at this time an extraordinary occasion to make use of the rooms in the Tower for receiving and securing prisoners, giving him full power to assign any rooms now in the possession of the officers of the Mint or Ordnance as there shall be occasion to such warders or other under officers as have the custody of such prisoners till further order and particularly ordering all the said officers of the Mint and Ordnance to admit him and any of his warders or under officers to have the use of all such convenient places as he shall appoint for the lodging and securing of prisoners. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 180.]
July 11.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir Lionel Walden. Immediately on the receipt of your letter I laid it before his Majesty, who commanded me to give his thanks for your care and diligence and referred me to Lord Alington, commanding that I should impart to him the information, as I have done but conceal the name. He relies much, I perceive, on Mr. Wren and one or two more deputy lieutenants; however the King desires you to continue still a watchful eye over that place. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 324.]
July 11.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Lord Mayor. His Majesty took an account of me just now of my conversation last night with you about the guards you intend to have in the City on this great occasion. I told him I thought you would have no less than 4 companies on guard to-morrow. This he liked very well as thinking it proper for this juncture. He commanded me to give you notice that he has directed some companies of his own foot to be at Smithfield that they may be ready and near on any call from you and the officer will wait on you to-morrow morning to let you know he will be in call. His Majesty recommends it to you to have a strict eye over Wapping and Moorfields during the running up and down there will be on this occasion. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 326.]
July 11.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Lord Dartmouth, Master General of the Ordnance, for delivery to the Duke of Albemarle of the following arms and necessaries for the use of the three troops of grenadiers now raised for the King's service, viz., for each of them 66 fusees with slings strapped with bayonets, 66 grenade pouches and cartouches, 2 partisans gilt, 2 halberts, 2 drums furnished and 66 grenade shells with fusees requisite for exercise. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 164, p. 93.]
July 11. Warrant to Edward White for searching in all suspected places and particularly the house of Mrs. Flower on Hounslow Heath, where it is suspected some of the persons mentioned in the late proclamations may be concealed etc. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 14.]
July 11[–21.]
Brussells.
The Marquis de Caretto y Grana to the Prince of Orange. Acknowledging the receipt of his sentiments. Is well aware of his difficulties. The King of England assures us that this army has nothing to fear. It appears that the business was not badly conceived or executed by Ronquillo. Can one believe that this plot was a put up job (a la main) like the preceding one in which the poor Catholics suffered so terribly ?
Postscript. I have since heard that in the rear guard action of the 7th the Prince of Arenberg, my brother-in-law, was killed fighting like a gallant man. I loved him as my son. [2 pages. French. Very illegible. S.P. Dom., King William's Chest 1, No. 27.]
July 12. Roger L'Estrange to Secretary Jenkins. Being informed that Hartshorn, Goodenough's servant, was in some credit at Whitehall and that he is a very scandalous dangerous fellow, I made further inquiry and find worse than any report I had of him. He was a prisoner and since the discovery of this conspiracy has been set at liberty, but I cannot find on what terms. He has lately forged a writ and counterfeited the hand of Mr. Justice Withens. I saw this myself. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 85.]
July 12.
Oxford.
Dr. John Wallis to Secretary Jenkins. Some conjectures I have been making about particular words, but how to make sense is beyond my skill. For instance, on the presumption you suggest, that it relates to some military preparation and the scene Scotland, the first cipher word may be collect, the second, arms, the third, alarms, the fourth, horse, the fifth, foot, the sixth, arms again or harms, the seventh, proportion, the eighth, Edinburgh, the ninth, gone, the tenth, proposition and so of others, every one of which, separately considered, is probable enough, and most of them enough consistent, one with another. If all or any of these conjectures were confirmed by making sense of what is written in words at length, it were a good foundation to proceed on, divers of these words recurring more than once, but what is written in words at length being so confused as not to be capable of making sense either with this or anything else gives me no aim what conjectures to retain and what to reject. Indeed, if we were sure of all those cipher words, yet how to connect them so as to make sense with the rest is past my skill, and I doubt whether it were ever intended for sense or no. I did not return these papers last post, expecting whether any others in the same cipher might come to give light to these, but learning of none and despairing of better success with these I now return them. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 86.]
July 12. Philemon Powell to Sir Charles Lyttelton. Last Tuesday I gave information against Andrew Vigeon, sergeant of Queenborough, before the Mayor, viz., that he, having by the Mayor's orders set up the proclamation for apprehending the Duke of Monmouth etc., tore it down again, saying it was a pack of lies. If you acquainted Sir L. Jenkins with it I presume it would not be amiss. I am now informed that the Mayor continues him in his place and that he acted publicly as sergeant yesterday, so you may judge what the Mayor is. [Ibid. No. 87.]
July 12.
Thoby, near Ingatestone.
Alexander Prescott to Sir John Peake. Yours of the 11th came just now. All I know or ever heard of Capt. Johnson and Mr. Bayly is this. Last Friday morning they came early to my house and a Mr. Stacy with them, who lives in the Hundreds towards Bradwell. They pretended their business was that they were informed that Sir John Bramston had bound over Stacy's son to the next assizes to answer for assisting two suspected persons to make their escape beyond seas. Now, says Johnson and Bayly, they were the two men, but Sir John was misinformed, for Bayly went down to Stacy's house only because he was his tenant and, says Johnson, I went with him only for company, and 'tis true we endeavoured to procure a boat, but it was only to go off into the Channel for a little fishing, and all the request to me was to acquaint Sir John with so much at the sessions, which I did, but he does not credit what they told me, for it appeared much otherwise to him on the information. This is all I ever heard of concerning them. I doubt Bayly is one of Mr. Meade's hearers, but I thought Johnson a man of better principles, for it is not long, I think, since he was in the commission for Middlesex.
At the close of our sessions yesterday an Order of Court was published at a full court, the grand jury being sent for on purpose and proclamation made three times.
It was that all the Justices of this county of Essex should forthwith issue their warrants against every one they knew to be disaffected to the present government and also against those that had been at any time in arms against his now Majesty or his father and also against frequenters of conventicles and those that suffered any of their family to do so, forthwith to be brought before them to enter into recognizances with two sufficient sureties at least for their good behaviour till the next general quarter sessions and whoever refused to give such security to be committed to the county gaol, to remain there till such security is given. I hope we have done what will much induce to the quiet and safety of this county, the preservation of the government and the safety of his Majesty. A copy of this order was sent last night to the Duke of Albemarle. [1½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 88.]
July 12.
Hertford.
Thomas Feilde and Richard Harrison to Sheriff Rich. Being informed that Daniell Gates alias Yates, now in our county gaol for want of sureties for his good behaviour, has lying in his yard about his house in Artichoke Lane near the Hermitage a considerable number of cannon shot, some of them crossbar shot, we certify it to you that his house may be searched. [Ibid. No. 89.]
July 12. Lord Yarmouth to Secretary Jenkins. Since I came into this country I have endeavoured to do his Majesty the best I could. Amongst other things I promoted the enclosed address, which I beg you speedily to lay at the King's feet. Here are all the right men's hands of the town and such as may be depended on to serve his Majesty. This horrid conspiracy much amazes all. The crime is so great that punishments in this world are too little for them. The loyal persons of the Yarmouth corporation are very desirous of having a quo warranto. In the first place they beg that a mandamus be sent to choose two such bayliffs as the loyal men there shall think fit for their purpose to carry on the quo warranto and to see that the moneys expended be defrayed out of the public stock. They conceive too, if a mandamus be obtained, matters may be carried so in a little time that the charter may be surrendered without the tedious delays of a quo warranto. A mandamus has been sent to the corporation before, as appears by some precedents. A copy of one I have to choose Sir Thomas Meddowes their bayliff, which was done. This shall be sent up, when you command it. Another thing will be much for his Majesty's service and I am desired by the corporation to give you a hint of it. There is abundance of powder and ammunition now so ill kept that the faction may easily seize it and they would be glad to have a loyal and responsible person to have the charge of it. Lord Dartmouth has been writ to by the corporation about it, and Ward, now a militia captain, was recommended to him. As yet they have heard no answer. 'Twould be very grateful to them, if he would give his directions in it. Pray let his Majesty know I would have come up to present this address, but that I think I can do him more service here.
Postscript. Those worthy persons of the corporation, that signed this address, beg that it may be speedily put into the Gazette. I desire to explain what I said about a mandamus. 'Tis meant, if it be approved on above, that the corporation will send the names of the persons to be put into the mandamus.
Just as I am sealing this, I hear the faction who refused the signing of this or sending any, now resolve, since the loyal persons have proceeded thus, to send one by themselves. Three or four of the regicides' children are married amongst them and it will mightily discourage the loyal there to hear of these men having any encouragement from above. [2½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 90.]
July 12.
Salop.
J. Walcot and four other Justices to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing copies of 7 informations etc. [Ibid. No. 91.]
July 12.
Liverpool.
Edward Tarleton, Mayor, Thomas Legh and D. Syme to Sir Thomas Chicheley, Chancellor of the Duchy. Our friend Mr. Legh, our High Sheriff, coming occasionally here proposed sending a congratulatory address to his Majesty on account of his deliverance. The proposal was heartily agreed and the only thing that stayed our thoughts was a suitable person to present it. But this difficulty was removed by Mr. Legh's assurance that you either in person or by your son, Sir John, would do our corporation this favour. On this presumption we have sent the enclosed address. There's now in our custody Joseph Webb, taken on suspicion, bound, as he says, for Pennsilvania, who has several papers of commerce about him but all of an old date and nothing satisfactory to evidence his honesty. He was searched and had 73 guineas in his trunks and pocket and about 10s. in silver. He had likewise 7 single and 2 double barrelled pistols, most of them loaded, a tinder-box in a stock and also holsters, breast-plate, crupper and bridle and stirrup irons in his trunks. We beg your direction what we shall do in this case and will secure him in the meantime.
If you will likewise instruct us how to proceed with the Quakers, great numbers of whom resort hither in order to their transportation for Pennsilvania, it may conduce much to his Majesty's service, in regard that some of the conspirators may mask themselves under the notion and garb of Quakers and so escape. [Ibid. No. 92.]
July 12.
Edinburgh.
The Bishop of Edinburgh to the Earl of Moray. Andrew Gulan, the murderer of the late Primate, is sentenced to have his hands cut off alive, and to be hanged to-morrow and to have his head and hands affixed on the city gates and his body to be hung in chains on Magus Moor. Atkins is to be hanged a fortnight hence for converse with traitors. The circuits are near ended and very few heretors in the three Lothians have refused to take the test. Two more papers of Earlston are sent from Newcastle, containing as gross treason as the others. An express is sent hither to bring up all his remaining papers, which may help in the discovery of the villainy. The Chancellor commands me to tell you that Earlston this afternoon before the Council owned these two papers and a letter sent by him out of Newgate prison, Newcastle, to his Fanatic party here, containing a testimony for the good old cause with an execration on himself, should he ever desert it. He says John Nisbet told him he was bred at Edinburgh College and was here at the burning of the Pope, when his Royal Highness was in Scotland. He had seen a testimony of his from that college written by William Henderson, the Keeper of the Bibliotheck, so that his Royal Highness may clearly see that this Nisbet is the person who should have murdered me, of which design the King's Advocate first informed his Royal Highness, and, if he be ingenuous, he can discover that bloody design as also who burnt Priestfield, Sir James Dick's house. The Chancellor desires you to acquaint his Royal Highness with this, that so John Nisbet may see that he cannot deny the letters signed Jo. N. to be in his own hand, since Earlston understands so particularly of his circumstances. My Lord of Glasgow was this day admitted on the Council.
I think some of the late Earl of Argyle's friends and confidents will be looked after and their houses searched for papers. It's informed that Polwarth sent a servant to meet his son coming from England with express command to him to burn all the letters and papers from London. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 93.]
July 12. Minutes of proceedings before the King and the Privy Council. His name is John Sealy alias Thomas Slape. Never saw Col. Owen. Came from his brother's house 3 miles from Taunton. Was going for Ireland. Lived with Lord Arran some years as under-keeper. Owes 60l., which made him change his name. Lived with John Blithman as keeper in Watham Forest 17 years ago. Blithman died in Ireland. Was not concerned in breaking open the Exchequer at Taunton. Has not been in London for 16 years last March. Was in Lord Arran's service two years ago and since in Squire Butler's, who married my lady. Went by the name of Sealy in Ireland because of his debts. Lost his eye 7 years ago by a blow of a sword hilt from Patrick White, one of the Duke of Ormonde's troop at Carlow.
Mr. Forbes called in. Saw Sir Thomas Armstrong the Saturday night between the two proclamations. Lay with him that night on pretence of a lady's staying for him at his lodgings that he would not see. Returned next night. Knows Sarah Povey. Sir T. Armstrong lay there heretofore. Saw her yesterday and the day before.
Beake, the messenger, can make oath to the enclosure of the papers under a cover signed and sealed by Dean Annesley and Mr. Culliford and to their being taken out by Mr. Secretary. The papers were found about Sealy alias Slape. One is in form of a surrender of some land, a note of the time of his being christened and two torn pieces of a treasonable declaration in Scotland with the Dean's and Culliford's affidavit of their being found about him. The Duke of Ormonde had a copy of what Slape said of his being into Ireland to send to inquire concerning it. [Ibid. No. 94.]
The above mentioned surrender of lands, parcel of the manor of Taunton Dean, being a draft with directions for its execution. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 95.]
The Act and Appeal of the Presbyterians of [Scotland] (much torn). Original with Annesley's and Culliford's seals and copy. [Ibid. Nos. 96, 97.]
The above mentioned note of the time of Slape's being christened, 17 Oct., 1630. [Ibid. No. 98.]
July 12. Other minutes of proceedings in Council. Present his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Lord President, Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. Lord Lovelace called in says he never discoursed with Sir J. Burlace of any design.
Lord Lovelace to find two sureties in 1,000l. each and himself in 2,000l. to keep the peace. Pennington and Sir J. Burlace to be discharged.
Hartshorne not to be further employed. Simon Main to find sureties in 500l. each and himself in 1,000l. for his good behaviour.
Sparry and Helmore to be sent for for threatening Mr. Keeling. [Ibid. No. 60, p. 16.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Mr. Walrond. His Majesty on reading your letter and the enclosed information is of opinion that it was of moment. He has therefore directed that, in regard the woman is poor, you should take her single recognizance to appear and give evidence etc. He would have no means used to detain her, who it seems is poor and incerti laris, but what the law and practice clearly allow of to have her forthcoming, whenever there is use of her testimony. Pray desire Lord Stawell to respite me till next post. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 327.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir William Portman. I had yours, signed also by Sir Francis Warr, for which I thank you and him. It was a particular satisfaction to his Majesty to observe your care and diligence in disarming the disaffected in Taunton, which was little less than necessary to be done at this time. Enclosed is a list of those that indictments have been found against to-day. But one was tried, Capt. Wallcott, and he was found guilty. [Ibid. p. 328.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Lord Culpeper. Signifying his Majesty's pleasure that he confine himself to the lodging where he is and stir not abroad till he receive his further pleasure. [Ibid.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
Warrant, after reciting that Col. Richard Talbot residing in Ireland has desired a licence to keep horses and arms for his safety and defence as well in his house as on the way; for suffering him freely and quietly to pass on his lawful occasions with his servants, horses and riding arms and to keep his said arms in his house for his safety and defence there without any search or other disturbance and also to pass in like manner into England, when the King's commands or his own affairs oblige him to return thither, and further signifying the King's pleasure that he be not summoned to serve on any jury or be obliged to bear any public office or to do any duty or service relating to the public in Ireland, except such as he shall voluntarily submit to. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 15.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
The King to the Earl of Perth, Justice General, Richard, Lord Maitland, Justice Clerk, and the remanent Commissioners of Justiciary. Being informed there is a process of forfeiture raised before you at the instance of our Advocate against John, Earl of Braed'alban, and several of his friends and followers on account of their proceedings in Sutherland and Caithness in June and July, 1680, we require you and our Advocate to desert the diet of compearance of the said Earl and of such of his friends and followers as are mentioned in the libel whereon the said process is founded and not to revive the same or raise any other process against him or any of them on the said account without a special warrant. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 8, p. 99.]
July 12.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a gift to John Creightoun, lieutenant to Capt. William Cleland's company of dragoons, of the lands of Stanypath and all other the lands which formerly pertained to John Wilson, deceased, son of Alexander Wilson late town clerk of Lanark, and now are in his Majesty's gift by reason of forfeiture through the said Wilson's being executed for treason and rebellion and also for a gift to the said Creightoun of all the goods moveable and immoveable formerly pertaining to the said Wilson. [1½ pages. Docquet. Ibid. p. 100.]
[After July 12.] The history of the charge and defence of Capt. Thomas Walcott, tried 12 July, 1683, being part of the History of the Whiggish Plot. (Substantially agreeing with the report in State Trials, Vol. IX, but consisting of only 2 pages, breaking off at the part in the middle of col. 529.) [Printed. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 99.]
[Before July 13.] Advice to Lord Russell about his trial, suggesting that he should pray the court to have the fact in the indictment written down, advising how he should challenge the jury for want of freehold and otherwise, about examining the witnesses and with a sketch of his speech.
(Apparently seized by Thomas Atterbury as each page is signed by him.) [5½ pages. Ibid. No. 100.]
[Before July 13.] Sir R. Atkyns to [Hugh Speke]. Advising Lord Russell about his trial. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 719.) [2½ pages. Ibid. No. 101.]
[Before July 13.] Hugh Speke to Lady Russell. I am very sorry and beg your ladyship's pardon that I could not let you have a copy of a text I received from Sir Robert [Atkyns] according to my promise, but my man going on a sudden out of town post I was forced to fail you, but I have sent you all I have copied out as yet to peruse. When you have perused it I desire you to return it me again by Mr. Spencer, I having about one sheet more to transcribe. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 102.]
[July ? 13.] Sarah, the wife of John Hampden, to the King. Petition for leave to visit her husband, a prisoner in the Tower, as often as his Majesty thinks fit. [2 copies. Ibid. Nos. 103, 104.]
Similar petition but with "at reasonable hours" prefixed to "as often as his Majesty shall think fit." [2 copies. Ibid. Nos. 105, 106.]
July 13. Sheriff Peter Rich to Secretary Jenkins. I received the enclosed (calendared ante, p. 104) from Hertford late last night. This Daniel Gates is a most desperate, violent person and I cannot the least doubt he is in the conspiracy. I presume Keeling will be at the Sessions house before this come, otherwise you might be better satisfied. I know he is a great shipping owner, but why he should have so much shot I cannot understand. I enclose also a letter from Dr. Hooper, from which you will see the Whig practices still and how loth they are the people should understand the truth. It will be, in my opinion, serviceable that the trials be not only at length, but epitomized that all the world may be made sensible of this horrid conspiracy. [Ibid. No. 107.]
July 13. — to Secretary Jenkins. Offering as his opinion that the Duke of Monmouth may through Davenant's or Betterton's means be lodged in one of the two playhouses or the lodgings belonging to them and that, to make the search successful, it must be made of both houses with a good number of men at the same time.—I shall be the more pleased if the arch-rogue, Armstrong, be taken with him, who, I am morally certain, is sometimes at Lady Warwick's, notwithstanding the search made there, but there is a passage out of the garret on the leads, which must be narrowly searched, and 2 in the morning is the most likely time to find him. I have no prejudice to these persons nor do I write on a slight surmise, and nothing prompts me but my abhorrence of the conspirators and my duty to the King. [Ibid. No. 108.]
July 13. Serjeant Richard Holloway to Secretary Jenkins. It is taken notice of in Oxford that from Mr. Locke's chamber in Christ Church, that was a great confidant, if not secretary, to the late Earl of Shaftesbury, in a clandestine way several hand baskets of papers are carried to Mr. James Tyrrell's house at Oakely near Brill in Buckinghamshire, about 7 miles from Oxford, or to Mr. Pawling's, the mercer's, house in Oxford. Though Mr. Tyrrell is son of a very good man, Sir Timothy Tyrrell, yet he and Mr. Pawling are reputed to be disaffected. It is thought convenient to make a search by a deputy lieutenant at Oakely, but who is Lieutenant or deputy of that county I cannot say, and, if you at the same time direct a search by our Lord Lieutenant or one of his deputies at Mr. Pawling's and that the Bishop of Oxford and the Vice-Chancellor then search Mr. Locke's chamber, it may conduce to his Majesty's service. I am going to attend the Norfolk circuit next Tuesday and, if you have any commands afterwards, you will direct them to the Bishop or the ViceChancellor. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 109.]
July 13.
Long Leat.
Lord Weymouth to Secretary Jenkins. Enclosing an address from the Justices and Grand Jury of that county.—They are sensible it ought to have been presented by themselves, but the necessity of their attendance at the assizes next week with the obligation of staying in the county to secure the peace and watch the motions of that restless faction, they hope, will plead their excuse. The same reason will, I hope, be admitted for my not waiting on his Majesty. [Ibid. No. 110.]
July 13.
Laycock.
Sir Gilbert Talbot to Secretary Jenkins. Yours of the 10th to me at Laycock with the enclosed Habeas Corpus found me yesterday at Warminster, just as we had closed the quarter sessions. I delivered the writ to the Under-Sheriff and commanded him to be at Salisbury to-night to receive the prisoner and convey him speedily with a safe guard to you. In order thereto I hasted home and sent my warrant to the constables of Chippenham to carry Pringle safely to-day to Fisherton and put him into the gaoler's hands, with like order to receive him and deliver him up to the Sheriff or his deputy, when demanded. This person, who came to me under the name of Pringle, called himself Browne in his examination before the Mayor of Marlborough. I send you some of his broken pieces of paper out of which I grounded my suspicion of him. That which he confessed to me was his advertisement to Nelthrop I rather take to be an advertisement sent to himself as one of the plotters, for such a paper could not be in his hands, unless he kept it as a copy of what he had written to Nelthrop, which is too impolitic to be supposed a knave would do. He had a bond in his pocket to show him a man of substance and a sermon to prove him orthodox, to which he too frequently referred when I questioned his principles.
The Justices and Grand Inquest at Warminster have in an address to his Majesty, which Lord Weymouth has undertaken to convey, expressed their detestation of this hellish conspiracy. [Ibid. No. 111.]
[July 13.] Seventeen Justices of Devon to Secretary Jenkins. Informing him of the commitment last week to gaol of Francis Weach for treasonable words. We have used all diligence in making searches and setting watches all over the county and hope our zeal and industry will answer our expressions of loyalty addressed to his Majesty. (Undated, but postmark 13 July.) [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 112.]
July 13. The Earl of Derby to Secretary Jenkins. I received yours of the 10th to-day. I have already sent orders to my deputy lieutenants for disarming all the disaffected and resolve very suddenly to meet them, who shall receive all imaginable encouragement from me to be active in searching for arms and discovering those whose actions of late have been most liable to exceptions. [Ibid. No. 113.]
July 13.
York.
Edward Thompson to Secretary Jenkins. I acquainted Sir John Reresby with my diligence for the discovery and apprehension of Nelthorpe and Goodenough, hoping to have surprised them at Bourdon, where Nelthorpe had lately been, but search has been made there and at Stockton and Newcastle without success, as you may be informed by the enclosed. Notwithstanding the report of his being there, he was not to be found at Stockton. His Majesty's safety and service is so dear to me that my relation to Nelthorpe could not lessen my duty in securing him, had it been in my power. [Ibid. No. 114.]
July 13.
Durham Castle.
The Bishop of Durham to Secretary Jenkins. Forwarding an address from the Grand Jury and Justices at the general quarter sessions there. [Ibid. No. 115.]
July 13. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Mr. Booth called in. Knows nothing of any rising. Never heard of any arming nor so much as provided a pocket pistol. Never armed any tenants. To be sent to the Tower.
Anthony Sheppard called in. Knows of no meetings. Duke of Monmouth, Lords Shaftesbury and Grey etc. have met at Lord Shaftesbury's. His lord was once at Sheppard's in Abchurch Lane. Denies what is objected against him in Gloucestershire as to absenting because he would not witness against Lord Russell. Lord Shaftesbury lay at Watson's, afterwards in Goodman's Fields at Tracy, a sea-captain's. From thence went away. Harrington is at Marshfield. To be sent for. Sheppard to give bail, 200l. himself and 100l. each of his sureties for good behaviour and to appear the first day of next term. [Ibid. No. 116.]
July 13. Further minutes. Major Bremen (Braman) to be sent for by a messenger, who is to apply for assistance to Capt. Sandys, who is to send up some of his troop to secure him.
The houses of Mr. Booth and his tenants to be searched for arms.
Secretary Jenkins to write to the Sheriff of Hertfordshire not to meddle with the goods or any thing that belonged to the Earl of Essex. [Ibid. Nos. 117–119.]
July 13. Another copy of the minutes. Adds nothing to the foregoing except:— Petition of Lady Essex read for a grant of the forfeiture accruing to the King by the Earl's death. His Majesty declares he will take no advantage of the forfeiture and refers the petition to the Lords of the Treasury. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 17.]
July 13. Memorandum that the examinations of the servants of the Earl of Essex were taken before Major Thomas Kane, a Justice for Middlesex, Capt. Rissley of the regiment of Guards and Capt. Hawley, gentleman porter of the Tower.
The fact was done about 9 o'clock this 13 July. [Ibid. No. 120.]
July 13. List of the papers taken that day out of the cabinet of the Earl of Essex. (Among them are several calendared in different volumes of the Calendar.) [Ibid. No. 121.]
July 13. The examination of Jacob Pierson of St. Andrew's, Holborn, blacksmith. He made the strange weapon produced, but sold it not. He bought a musket about the time the parliament was to sit at Oxford, which he sold about 14 days since to Thomas Parks for 10s. He does not frequent the public church, but usually hears Mr. Reade, Mr. Vincent or other reputed Nonconformists. He believes that Christ will come and reign in the hearts of His people a thousand years on earth. He followed the late Lord Mayor with a hiss as the rabble did from Guildhall Street to the corner of St. Laurence Church. He heard Mr. Feakin teach in a vault on London Bridge. Mr. Cauldren, Lord Clare's steward, told him yesterday morning that he need not fear what Fox should swear against him, for he had oversworn or outsworn himself already and would not be believed. Confesses that in a familiarity among themselves they called the King Ralph. [Ibid. No. 122.]
July 13.
Scarborough.
The examination and further deposition on oath of Stephen Thompson. Past 1 on Sunday 24 June last Richard Nelthorpe came to his house at Scarborough as a relation with another gentleman, who named himself Layne, a merchant of Leeds, a tall slender man with short flaxen hair, and stayed there till next day, when they took horse to Whitby with Cornelius Moone of Scarborough. They returned to his house in Scarborough next day. They pretended they were forced to fly for debt so he procured for them a vessel for Holland. The proclamation for taking Nelthorpe or any other was not then known at Scarborough nor for a week after. Their horses are now in his custody. They went on board a vessel of which Peter Posgate of Scarborough is master as she was riding in Scarborough Road 27 June last. It was unknown to the master what they were. [3 copies. Ibid. Nos. 123–127.]
July 13. The examination on oath of Cornelius Moone. 24 June last he met at Stephen Thompson's house two gentlemen, whose names he knows not, who, hearing he was going to Whitby, desired to go with him, which they did next day. At Whitby they desired him to procure them a vessel for Holland. He was told there was none there, so he and they returned towards Scarborough. One of the gentlemen being sick and night coming on, they stayed at Robert Walker's house in Hollands Leager till about 10 next day and thence came to William Browne's house at Cloughton where he stayed with them about 2 hours and then went to Scarborough, where he acquainted the said Thompson that he had left them at Cloughton and asked if there was a ship there for Holland. Thompson told him there was one bound thither, on which he returned to Cloughton about 10 and acquainted them therewith, on which they came with him to Thompson's house where he left them. (Describes them.) He believes they were shipped off at Scarborough, but whither he knows not. [3 copies. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, Nos. 128–130.]
July 13. The examination on oath of John Grimstone. He never made any appointment nor had any notice from Mr. Moone or any gentleman with him to meet them with dogs and nets to set on the moors nor at the house of William Browne or Robert Walker, but about last Saturday sennight the said Walker's wife told him that Mr. Moone and two other gentlemen inquired at her house whether he had been there and said the deponent promised to meet them there. [3 copies. Ibid. Nos. 131–133.]
July 13. The examination on oath of Mary, wife of William Browne of Cloughton. Last Tuesday fortnight between 10 and 11 in the forenoon Cornelius Moone came to her husband's house with two gentlemen. (Describes them.) Moone asked her whether John Grimstone had not been there inquiring for him and the gentlemen, telling her he promised to meet them with dogs and nets, and that Moone left after about three-quarters of an hour and promised to come and send nets and dogs to them. The gentlemen stayed there till about 10 at night, when Moone came and told them they had a friend at Scarborough that must drink spaw water with them in the morning and that he would trust no other to come for them but him, so they all went away. [3 copies. Ibid. Nos. 134–136.]
[July ? 13.] Mathew Meade of Stepney to the King. Petition for pardon and release, that he may drink the waters, being very ill of the stone. Is deeply afflicted for having acted in any way as an enemy to the government, and resolved in future to merit a better character, and not to combine with any party that shall endeavour to diminish the King's prerogative, but to keep with conscience and dutifulness the oath of allegiance, by which he is solemnly bound. [Ibid. No. 137.]
July 13.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a congé d' élire to the Dean and Chapter of York to choose an archbishop, the see being vacant by the death of Dr. Richard Sterne, the late Archbishop, and for a letter recommending to them for election Dr. John Dolben, Bishop of Rochester. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 53, p. 98.]
July 13.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Brian Turner, gentleman usher in ordinary, to search for arms in the palace of Audley End, and to break open all doors and to open all holes in walls that shall seem to be made up for hiding arms and to deliver up to the deputy lieutenants of Essex all arms that he shall find to be secured as the law provides. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 181.]
July 13. Order for permission to Mrs. Hampden to see her husband a prisoner in the Tower. Minute. [Ibid. p. 207.]
July 13. Order that Lady Russell be admitted to her lord in Newgate, as also his near relations by one at a time. Minute. [Ibid. p. 211.]
July 13.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Sheriff of Hertfordshire. Signifying his Majesty's pleasure that he intermeddle not with any of the goods or chattels of Arthur, late Earl of Essex, that were in his houses or parks or any wise in his custody or possession at the time of his death, till he understands his Majesty's further pleasure. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 328.]
July 13.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Mr. Hodgson. His Majesty was very much displeased with Don Lewis for presuming to say he had something to reveal that imported his Majesty's life to be in danger and, when he came to the trial, it was but an impertinent story of above two years ago. His Majesty has commanded me to give him in charge immediately to depart the kingdom to the end that, when he is once over, he may have no pretence of leave to come a second time, but at his utmost peril. A very ill character of him is given by those that know him. His Majesty will have nothing to do with him, especially not in point of testimony against others, in which case his Majesty has an extreme gracious tenderness of the lives of his subjects.
Pray learn if you can and send me word who that other man was that made his escape, Nathaniel Wade, and most especially what ship they passed in, I mean her name and master and whether it set out from Scarborough or from some other port. I am obliged to a Mr. John Glover for a letter giving the same advice. He does not tell me where my letter shall find him, therefore I beseech you to thank him, if you see him. [Ibid. p. 329.]
July 13.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Recorder and the Sheriffs of London for the reprieve of John South, if found guilty of the killing of — Atkinson. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 335, p. 16.]
[July ?] William Watkins of Talgarth to the King. Petition for a pardon, he having been convicted of barratry at the last great sessions for Breconshire by a partial jury on very slender evidence, and having been thus prosecuted by the procurement of a member for that county in the Oxford parliament because he denied him his vote, being engaged for the Earl of Worcester. At the foot,
July 14.
Whitehall.
Reference thereof to Sir Robert Wright, before whom the petitioner was tried, and
His report that Watkins was convicted and fined 26l., that the witnesses gave evidence of several suits promoted by him, which was a good ground for the verdict, and that what is suggested against the prosecutor did not appear to him in the trial, but he has since very often heard there were differences between him and the petitioner, which might in all probability arise on the choice of a member for that parliament. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 138.]
Saturday [July 14]
past 2 p.m.
The Earl of Clarendon to Secretary Jenkins. I know not how to avoid giving you these frequent troubles about the body of the Earl of Essex. The Lieutenant of the Tower sends to me again to take some order in it by reason of the hot weather and yet last night the person I sent was not permitted to do what was necessary. God knows we desire to have it away. I therefore beg you to let me have an order for it. The Coroner had done his duty before 8 this morning, as I suppose you had an account from Lord Alington. Endorsed, "Received the 14th." [Ibid. No. 139.]
July 14. Roger L' Estrange to William Blathwayt. I have carefully perused all the papers I received. The prints have nothing in them. Those with short hand sermon notes and an old letter are together bundled up in the packet. The letter and the enclosed certificate are likewise of ancient date. The certificate is only matter of form and recommendation of young men to be entertained in the exercise of the ministry. The letter is the whimsey of a fantastical Scotch minister, written in his banishment to his congregation, rude and violent enough. It is dated in the time of Bishop Cosin at Durham and I see nothing useful or remarkable in it. Yet I have noted some passages in it with alphabetical references to the paper itself. Endorsed, "About Stretton's papers." [Ibid. No. 140.] Enclosed,
The said letter addressed to his dear friends at Chatton, Doddington, Haslridg, Norham and elsewhere in Northumberland exhorting them to perseverance. It mentions that the writer had suffered imprisonment at York and alludes to the rattling to of the gaol door at London under a Bonner, at York under a Sterne and at Durham that is cousin to them all. It concludes by asking an answer to the following questions:— 1. Where you resort on the Lord's Day to hear the public ordinances ? 2. How you spend the rest of the Sabbath in private ? 3. What of God's working you find in you ? 4. Who are the members of your fellowship ? 5. I am sorry I hear nothing of your uncle Patrick that he joins with you. I had good hopes of him, and would know if he withdraw from you wilfully or if he cannot conveniently join with you for distance of place. 6. For those who persecuted the Gospel in me, and hate it in you, observe if God's Providence shall not make good His words in my mouth. 7. Remember me in your prayers. [6½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 140 I.]
July 14. Sir Charles Lyttelton to Secretary Jenkins. I lately informed his Royal Highness that I thought the force in Sheerness too weak, there being but one company of 80 men, besides officers and gunners. He said that the people of the Navy yacht might be a considerable addition to the strength of the garrison in case of any sudden attempt to surprise it. I have more particularly inquired what may be relied on upon that account and find there but two labourers besides the soldiers in the company and that carpenters, caulkers etc., masters and men, won't make above 20 more, of whom there are not 10 from whom any service is to be expected, and, that his Majesty may know what ill neighbours we have, I desire you to peruse the enclosed received last night. [Ibid. No. 141.] Enclosed,
Philemon Powell's letter calendared ante, p. 103.
July 14. Anthony Church to Secretary Jenkins. Mr. Gibbons in my custody desires the admittance of some clean linen and to have his meat and drink from his own house. I find Mr. Southley to be clerk to Mr. Turner in the Six Clerks' office. It is he who Mr. Gibbons told me this morning used to give him the news from Whitehall. [Ibid. No. 142.]
July 14.
Ashridge.
The Earl of Bridgwater to Secretary Jenkins. Having on the receipt of your letter of 23 June written to my deputy lieutenants in the counties of Buckingham and Hertford, searches have been made in divers places in both counties, but we have not made any discoveries, only Mr. Mayne of Hinton, Buckinghamshire, son of Mayne who was one of the judges of the late King, was seized by Sergeants Starkey and Hartshorne, who came to me for assistance by some of the militia and showed me their authority from Lord Sunderland, so I appointed them assistance not only for seizing him but for carrying him to London. I have not yet heard of the return of those who went with him. Yesterday I received yours of the 11th and will with all possible speed send to my deputy lieutenants in both counties for their assistance in putting your directions in execution.
Postscript. I have since heard that Mayne is now at liberty on bail. [Ibid. No. 143.]
July 14.
Eastwell.
The Earl of Winchilsea to Secretary Jenkins. Yours of the 10th came to me last Wednesday night. I deferred answering it, hoping to give you some account of the affairs of this county. I shall observe all your orders.
All that truly love the King in this county are exceedingly glad at the miraculous discovery of the bloody and horrid assassinate intended and the gentry have sent to me to offer their services in their own persons and at their proper charges to attend his Majesty's person or service where he will employ them. They have prepared an address full of zeal, as you will see by the enclosed copy. It might have been better worded and no counsel given to his Majesty, which I was against putting into the address, but I was unwilling to lose time or let them cool and knowing they are truly sound at the heart I hope his Majesty will receive them with all kindness and excuse any errors.
I have observed his Majesty's commands in not bringing together the militia on duty, but have ordered all to be in readiness on the first summons. I have sent out some small parties of horse and searched the house of Mr. Papillon, Col. Deering and William Brockman and several others, but found nothing more than the militia arms. My deputy lieutenants have had orders to disarm all suspected persons, but as yet have found very few. As soon as I receive an inventory of the arms seized I will send you a copy with the names of the persons in whose house or custody they were. I am confident many have hid their arms, especially Col. Deering, for I had notice 2 or 3 years past that he had in one chamber 15 or 16 case of pistols and 5 or 6 blunderbusses. I have employed some persons to get information with all privacy of a parcel of arms I have notice of, but cannot yet discover where they are. In a few days I hope to be informed and then shall make a thorough search myself and, if I find anything, give you an account. If there is a great parcel I will secure the person and examine the matter as fully as I can. [1½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 144.]
July 14.
Titchfield.
The Earl of Gainsborough to Secretary Jenkins. At his Majesty's first command I sent out warrants to the deputy lieutenants and colonels of this county to search the houses of all suspected persons and have already given you a general account that no considerable quantity of arms was found. I cannot now give you the names of all the persons disarmed, but I hope at the Winchester assizes to meet all the officers employed and to give you a more particular account and an inventory of the arms found and in whose houses they were. [Ibid. No. 145.]
July 14.
Isle of Wight.
Sir Robert Holmes to Secretary Jenkins. In order to his Majesty's command of 29 June I have got in all the arms that could be met with in this island, which are very inconsiderable to what I thought might have been found. I have also taken into Carisbrooke Castle 20 field pieces that belonged to the militia. The bringing of these guns makes great noise among the people set on by the disaffected that want no art to do all the mischief they can, but I value neither them nor their black art. Some days after my arrival in the isle I had information of frequent meetings at Newport of Nonconformist parsons and others from Southampton, Portsmouth and elsewhere. I sent out warrants to the Mayor of Newport and the high constables of the island to apprehend and bring them before me, but they are fled. I am still in diligent search of them, but can hear no tidings of them. You will see their names in the enclosed copies of the warrants. Yesterday I sent out warrants for two more of their consorts, who, I hear, are also gone. If any of them be taken, though I can prove nothing against them but their meeting in this nature as well as their constant meeting at their conventicles, I will keep them close till I have his Majesty's further pleasure.
Lock, an inhabitant of Yarmouth in this isle, was master of the vessel that carried off some people that escaped about Chichester. Major Hurst was the owner and that fellow has been off and on with him any time this twelvemonth and without doubt that vessel has been kept for some such use as she now went on. I met with a letter last post, giving me some apprehensions as if this Lock with his vessel should be at Hull or somewhere in the Humber. It were well she were looked after in those parts. I have so waylaid him here, that he will never come into these ports. He is easily known, being a black tall man with a wooden leg. He lost his leg with myself in his Majesty's service. I had formerly made him a gunner here, till I knew of his qualities and preaching; then I turned him out.
Whitehead, that lives in Hampshire, is come into the isle on pretence of gossiping with Sir Robert Dillington. I have sent to him to get out of the isle and, if I heard any more of his coming over here without acquainting me, I would lay him by the heels. He is a very great rogue, nobody can be overwatchful of him, but I do not value him or all the rest of his gang.
Pray acquaint the King with this account. Next week I intend to make use of his Majesty's leave for the Bath, my legs and feet being in great want of it, but intend to take London in my way, to give his Majesty an account of his concerns here as well as to bring him an address from all the chief inhabitants of the isle. [Nearly 2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 146.]
July 14.
Sherborne.
The Earl of Bristol to Secretary Jenkins. I received yours of the 11th with further directions concerning disarming dangerous and disaffected persons, which shall be punctually observed, nor will I put the country to much charge by raising the militia but only so many as are absolutely necessary to make a thorough search in the whole county, which is in great measure done already. The rest I had reason to defer till next week and then shall give you an inventory of all arms seized and have ordered all my deputy lieutenants and militia officers to be constantly in a readiness to follow any further orders from his Majesty.
Last week I caused Christopher Battiscombe to be seized in his bed by a party of horse and he was examined before me, but having nothing against him then more than bare suspicion, he being a stranger and lying at the house of a notorious Fanatic, we took good bond for his appearance at the assizes. I since understand you have by a letter to Mr. Ryves expressed a suspicion of his being in the plot, whereon I sent an order for apprehending him. I had notice of his being yesterday in Dorchester and doubt not he will be seized to-day. If so, he shall be committed to Dorchester gaol till further instructions. I desire you will present the enclosed address to his Majesty. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 147.]
July 14.
Rauston.
George Ryves to Secretary Jenkins. I received yours of the 5th relating to Christopher Battiscombe. I made inquiry in our parts, where he was altogether a stranger, but going to quarter sessions I found that the very man was on the 17th taken on suspicion by some of our militia horse and carried before some Justices at Sherborne, who let him go on good bail for his appearance at our assizes on the 26th, but I question not before that time to give you an account of him in custody. (About his examination, calendared ante p. 64.) We have yet no account of Edward Norton. We secured with his arms a gelding, which he formerly owned to be a managed horse. He not long since had a suit of new armour, but we could not find it. I suppose it might be sent away in a trunk sent to him to London about 3 weeks ago. (Giving Norton's address in London.) Finding by our letters of to-day that the bill is found against Norton, I let you know that yesterday two waggon load of goods and 300 sheep were removed. His wool was sent away before. I beg your direction about the gelding. [Ibid. No. 148.]
July 14.
Wells.
The Bishop of Bath and Wells to Secretary Jenkins. Having performed my duty as well as I could at the sessions on the bench and in the pulpit, I am now returned here, where I am thronged with country people as full of indignation against the traitors as they were of treason and in particular against Trenchard. We were very unanimous at the sessions and the address will, I presume, have had admittance to his Majesty before this comes to you. It is the desire of the county that the gentlemen may return fully instructed in what methods we are to proceed. All persons are highly sensible of this horrid design and the King can command nothing that will not be readily obeyed, for I never saw the county in a better temper. I left Lord Stawell yesterday under the tooth ache; I am sure he has an aching tooth against the rebels. The corporation of Bridgwater desired him and me to give them a meeting, which we did, and they declared that they had resolved to lay their charter at the King's feet. [Ibid. No. 149.]
July 14. John Bluet to Sir Francis North, Lord Keeper. I lately committed to the gaol in Devon Francis Weach, a poor sergeweaver of Taunton St. James, for saying that the Duke of Monmouth was declared a traitor because he was a Protestant prince but rather than he should lose his life 20 or 30 thousand would lose theirs, and the said Weach being asked if he would be one of them, answered, Yes. I send you the copies of the informations. What you direct in this or any other concern, wherein I may serve his Majesty, shall be faithfully observed, for, as my father lost his life in the King's service, so shall I be ready to part with all the blood in my heart for the preservation of his person and government. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 150.] Enclosed,
The examination of Francis Weach of Taunton St. James. He went to Collumpton last Monday fortnight to work. Being demanded what he would say as to the words evidenced against him, he says that what was sworn against him was not all true, but that the Duke of Monmouth has friends who would take his part. July 7. [Ibid. No. 150 I.]
The examination of John Peard of Barnstaple. He met Weach at Maiden Down, who, when asked what news was going, answered that the Duke of Monmouth was declared a traitor for being a Protestant prince but, before he should lose his life, 20,000 would lose theirs. Peard asked if he would be one. He answered he would. July 7. [Ibid. No. 150 II.]
The examination of Matthias Henvile of Wellington, Somerset. Met Weach at Jeremiah Standbury's in Burlescombe parish and he saying that he believed that if the Duke were taken he would be hanged, Weach answered he hoped such a nobleman would not be hanged. Henvile replied it were the King's mercy if he were only beheaded, if what was said of him was true. (The rest is to the effect of Peard's examination.) [Ibid. No. 150 III.]
Copies of Bluet's letter and the above examinations. [Ibid. Nos. 151, 152.]
July 14.
Hereford.
Herbert Aubrey to Secretary Jenkins. At my arrival here I found Gideon Borland, a Scotchman, in prison, taken up here since the plot. I suspect him for a great rogue. Another taken with him was whipped and turned off. The other had a pass for himself, but this Scotchman prevailed with him to add his name to it. He has an unhealed wound in his shoulder, which he pretends he had in Edinburgh in a tumult. Please let me know if you would have a further account. All care has been taken here for securing the life of our King and in order thereto a model too long to insert is agreed on for all the Justices in the county to act by.
I have never had time for the enjoyment of myself but in your way, trouble and business, two sessions in one week and to preach at both and to think an address and get it dispatched has been my employ. I am apt to believe that on the detection and execution of so many great villains something may happen of employ or good to me. [Ibid. No. 153.]
July 14.
Welbeck.
The Duke of Newcastle to Secretary Jenkins. I wrote to you on Monday and sent a list of all the arms taken in this county and of the owners thereof and on Wednesday to clear Mr. Gregory. I received but to-day yours of the 10th and send it back, as I received it, that you may see it was never sealed and no doubt many in Nottingham read it on Thursday. I read it with trouble that the factious should see loyal persons rebuked for taking arms from the factious, but I shall not be so officious another time. I would give over all my employments and desire it of his Majesty, but not so earnestly but, if he would have me continue in them, I am most ready to serve him.
It may be thought Sir Scroope How heard of this letter, for he dined with me here yesterday and it is six years since he was here. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 154.]
July 14.
Durham Castle.
The Bishop of Durham to Secretary Jenkins. In obedience to his Majesty's commands I shall with all speed send a list of those whose houses were searched and of the arms seized. I doubt we have been more strict than either to allow swords or fowling pieces, but I hope this is an error on the right hand. I continue a search for arms. The militia is daily on duty but without extraordinary charge or trouble, the horse as well as foot being mustered in small parcels and relieved every two days. I hope the two addresses from this place are safely arrived. [Ibid. No. 155.]
July 14.
Newcastle.
Henry Brabant to Secretary Jenkins. This week we have kept watch with our militia here and shall continue them till we receive order to the contrary. The truth is, I thought the constable's watch not so vigilant as the occasion required. I gave account formerly that we had disarmed all the Nonconformists and this week we have tendered them the oath of allegiance which they have taken. We cannot tender the oath of supremacy without a commission out of the Court of Chancery, which oath I am persuaded many of them will refuse and so leave it to your judgment whether we shall have such a commission or not. We have but 3 or 4 Roman Catholics here and those but of mean quality. [Ibid. No. 156.]
July 14.
Scarborough.
Timothy Foord and Nicholas Saunders, bailiffs, to Secretary Jenkins. Sending informations taken from all those who they can understand were in the company of the two persons who arrived at Scarborough 24 June and sailed thence, whom they have bound over to appear at the next quarter sessions, and desiring his directions for their further proceedings. [Ibid. No. 157.]
July 14. The examination on oath of Robert Walker. On Monday or Tuesday fortnight Cornelius Moone of Scarborough about 9 at night desired that he and two other gentlemen might lodge at his house, who took horse about 9 next morning to the moors to meet some falconers there. [3 copies. Ibid. Nos. 158–160.]
[July ? 14.] John Rous to Sir Thomas Player. I have no guilt as to that for which I have received sentence of death. God forgive all my enemies. I am bound to use all lawful means to save my life, at least to get a reprieve, in order to which I have sent about to friends to improve their interest and now entreat you to use yours with Sir William Turner or any other on account of my poor family, your own accounts and other men's which remain unadjusted.
This evening came a gentleman who is intimate with Lord Halifax, who will engage for 100 guineas to procure a reprieve. Is there no way by yourself, Alderman Cornish etc. to advance a sum, if occasion requires? Life is sweet and what is done must be done speedily. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 161.]
[July 14.]
Council Chamber.
Lord Fauconberg to [Secretary Jenkins]. Unless the Scarborough business require very great haste, Sir Hugh Cholmley in my opinion will be the best to make inquiry into it. You may direct to him at Walcot near Stamford.
Sir David Fowlis, Sir Thomas Penniman, Sir William Hurstler. [Ibid. No. 162.] Perhaps enclosed,
Note by Lord Fauconberg of the address in the North Riding of Sir David Fowlis, Sir Medcalf Robinson and Sir Richard Graham. [Ibid. No. 162 I.]
July 14. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Present, his Majesty, his Royal Highness, Lord Keeper, Lord President, Lord Privy Seal, Duke of Ormonde, Earls of Sunderland and Rochester and Secretary Jenkins. Forrester, Baillie and Nisbet to attend to-morrow at 4, Mr. Shepard at the same time. Four informations read concerning arms carried to Forrester's house. [Ibid. No. 60, p. 20.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
The King to the Wardens of Winton and New College etc. After reciting letters of 11 Feb. 1681–2 recommending Edward Harfell, son of Edward Harfell of Winchester, for election at the next election to New College but that he had received no benefit thereby, because no places had hitherto fallen in New College, and that, if not chosen at the next election the 31st instant, he will be superannuated, renewing his recommendation that they choose him into New College at the approaching election. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 53, p. 504.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
The King to Lord Alington, Constable of the Tower. After reciting that there may be occasion, especially in such a time as this, to reinforce the garrison in the Tower, empowering him to cause to be assigned any rooms now in the possession of the officers of the Mint or Ordnance or any other private persons as there shall be occasion for quartering the officers and soldiers of the said garrison till further order, and ordering all the said officers of the Mint and Ordnance and all others whom it may concern to admit such officers and soldiers to be quartered in their houses and lodgings as he shall think necessary. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 182.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Thomas Cheeke, Lieutenant of the Tower, to deliver the body of Arthur, late Earl of Essex, to such as the Earl of Clarendon shall appoint to receive it in order to his interment. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 54, p. 183.]
July 14. Order that Mr. Thomson and William Hackle attend Lord Russell in Newgate, not above two servants at one time to be with him. [Ibid. p. 211.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Earl of Burlington. His Majesty is not yet resolved what way is most secure to bring up the oneeyed Scotchman to be examined here. You are desired in the meanwhile to keep a very strict eye over him by his keeper, for, being confronted with the Scotch here, something may be learned from him. His Majesty finds that these pedling Scotchmen swarm abundantly in the North. He is well pleased that you are disposing the country to come to a resolution what to do in their case. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 68, p. 330.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir John Reresby. (About the one-eyed Scotchman as in the last letter.) [Ibid.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir Hugh Cholmley. I have advice by the last Holland letters that Nathaniel Wade, one of the villains named in the proclamation, had escaped to Holland and that he and another with him were seen at Rotterdam going further into the country. It was there said they had taken shipping at Scarborough and that one Thomson had been aiding them in making their escape. I am commanded to desire your care and endeavour to discover who this receiver of traitors may be and to lay hold on him that he may be made to answer the law and if you find any others privy to the same thing that you proceed with them the same way. Viscount Fauconbridge told me you would be ere long within a convenient distance of the place. [Ibid. p. 331.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to the Bishop of Durham. I have one from you to acknowledge. In it came a loyal address from the City of Durham. I presented it to his Majesty to-day, who received it very graciously and ordered it to be printed, which cannot be done but in its turn. [Ibid. p. 332.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Secretary Jenkins to Sir Robert Leicester. Henry Booth of Cheshire having been yesterday committed to the Tower, his Majesty orders that his house be searched for arms and that those found be secured as the law directs. He is further informed that Mr. Booth put arms in the hands of his tenants some years since. He would have this carefully inquired into as also who those tenants are, what arms they have now and how long they have had them, and that they be secured as the other. I desire you to call such persons to your assistance as you shall think fit. [Ibid.]
July 14.
Whitehall.
Warrants for protections in the new form to Sir Alexander Bruce of Broomhall and to William Ruthven of Gardin for two years respectively. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 8, pp. 101, 103.]
Sunday, July 15. Rachel, Lady Russell to Secretary Jenkins. "I am so pinched in time that I had so very few minutes with my lord (who readily signed the petition) and which I wish as acceptable as 'tis sincerely and humbly designed, that, if it should in any thing be short, I hope it will be pardoned and upon notice he will be ready to give further evidences of his submission and sorrow for having offended his Majesty.
"Sir, I beseech you let the King have the contents of this." [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 163.] Enclosed,
William Russell to the King. Petition. (Printed in State Trials, Vol. IX, col. 686, note.) [Ibid. No. 163 I.]
July 15. Thomas, Lord Culpeper, to Secretary Jenkins. Desiring him to deliver speedily this petition the first opportunity.—I have not since the restoration been once restrained of my liberty before and, besides the strangeness and trouble of it, it is much more prejudicial to me at this time than it could be at any other. I do not speak it at all in excuse, but believe that, if I return in some convenient time, I could not possibly have done the King or the country a greater service. I have this satisfaction that I have most successfully, even beyond my hopes, settled things there and left them so that I doubt not of a perfect quiet, none minding any thing but to make those vast crops of tobacco, far beyond any heretofore, which may quickly make us uneasy again, which I would prevent if possible (though I fear not) or at least the mischiefs arising thereby. [Ibid. No. 164.] Enclosed,
Lord Culpeper to the King. Petition for his pardon and forgiveness and that he may have access to his presence and be restored to his favour again, he having so settled affairs in his government of Virginia that he conceived his presence in England might conduce to his Majesty's service and so having presumed to return home. [Ibid. No. 164 I.]
July 15.
Eastwell.
The Earl of Winchilsea to Secretary Jenkins. This morning the address to his Majesty came to me signed by the gentlemen of East Kent, among others Sir Henry Oxenden, Sir James his son, and the rest of the brothers. I have seen Sir James since, who seems much concerned at the horrid design. I hope he is convinced of his former errors. I have sent the address to other parts of the county, that it may be hastened.
This morning I received the enclosed letter from Monsr. Benenand, minister of the French congregation at Rye, who is truly loyal. If you advise me how to answer it, I shall observe your commands. I desire only that few except his Majesty may see it, that it may not raise him enemies, for he has been under some discouragements for his forwardness and I have been obliged to help him to make that congregation submit to the discipline of the Church of England. He has heard that my house was to have been burnt, which was one of the lies invented by some that hate me on the King's account, but nothing shall hinder me from doing all in my power to defend the King and Royal family.
About noon to-day I received a letter from London that the Serjeant Trumpet is seized for his design to stab the King. His Majesty and his Royal Highness cannot have too much care of themselves especially for some time, the number, quality and riches of the conspirators being so great and all provided to take the first opportunity, and they know that every day their party must decrease and his Majesty's friends be better prepared; therefore I beseech you make his Majesty sensible that it is better for the kingdom that 10,000 of us should perish than that we should hazard so good a monarch.
It is a great advantage that wicked men and rebels have over honest and loyal persons, to strike the first blow, and therefore we ought to be well prepared.
I think, if his Majesty had 2 or 3 small field pieces with all things necessary with some arms for foot and horse in his forts at Tilbury and Sheerness and also at Deal, that, in case of any sudden occasion to raise this county for his service, we may be fitted immediately and capable to take the field and to arm the volunteers, who, I hope, will come in plentifully, it will encourage his friends and discourage his enemies and save losing time. It also deserves consideration whether it be not convenient to have some blank commissions ready in case of emergency. This I propounded formerly the August after the King's coming to England to my brother-in-law, the late Earl of Southampton, and undertook for 5,000 men in those days besides the militia to be ready in 7 days warning to be at Gravesend, where he promised I should find 5,000 arms ready and 5,000l. towards their pay. I wish I were now as able to serve the King as I was then but will do all I can, if there be occasion. If blank commissions are sent for a foot regiment, a dragoon regiment and a horse regiment, I hope to be able to make up that number and to bring a great part of the militia together in a few days. [2¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 165.]
July 15.
Sheerness.
Sir John Bramston to Sir John Peake. I think you heard Mr. Prescott tell that Mr. Johnson of Mile End, sometime a Middlesex Justice, with the son of Capt. Baines or Baylie and a third man, came to him Friday sennight and importuned him to supersede a warrant from me against Thomas Stace and to discharge a recognizance I had taken for the appearance of one Lewis and a son of Stace's, which he refused and at their parting he perceived Stace to be the third person. Stace has absented ever since and doubtless is either at Johnson's or the other man's house about Mile End or Stepney. You said you would send for Johnson, who had been but the Thursday before he was with Mr. Prescott at a meeting where you were, I think, about Bridewell or Bethlem. One of the fishermen, with whom they treated to hire his bark, said they talked of giving a third gentleman notice. The third man was not at Stace's house nor is his name known, but I believe these two came but as factors for that third man. If you would try to apprehend Stace and either bind him to the assizes or commit him for want of sureties, I am persuaded some discovery might be made so useful at this juncture. Stace is tenant to that captain's son and, I am confident, is harboured by him. He was within 2 or 3 days seen on the Exchange. Your prudence will guide you much better than anything I can say, but certainly Johnson and the other ought to give better reason for hiring a boat and pilot than going a fishing, for they offered 20s. a day and talked of going to Harwich. The examinations were delivered in at the sessions, so I cannot send you copies. The Justices have bound the constable, who was very negligent, to the assizes and I had bound the pilot that should have been and the party that trafficked for the boat. If Stace can be found, it will be a good service. My warrants lie in the constables' hands to catch him, if he come home. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 166.]
July 15. John Merlett to [Major Braman]. Within an hour after you were carried away from Chichester the enclosed letter was brought from Horsham. I send it that you may see what contrivances there have been against you. [Ibid. No. 167.]
George White (?) to [John Merlett]. I write to give you a brief hint of a late design against Mr. Braman and Mr. Richard Farington of your town. About 10 at night on the 11th Parson Low came to the gaol with Dr. Harrison and pretends he had an order from the King and Council to examine Whitcher and Woodnott, the two lads from Chichester, and they were called out of their beds and examined apart whether the said gentlemen did not endeavour to persuade them to be listed under the Duke of Monmouth, tempting them to swear by promising them their release before the assizes. This diabolical design was commenced by Carleton's letter. I hope it will be frustrated. July 14. Horsham Gaol. [Signature nearly obliterated. Ibid. No. 167 I.]
July 15. John Day to Mr. Trisit, tobacconist in North Street, Chichester. I was desired by the master to let you know that your vessel is well come up and he desires you to come presently to look after her, for he and all his company are advised to keep themselves from her, till they understand what they design to do with her. Pray fail not to be here on Wednesday and go to the King's Head near Wapping Dock and inquire for William Reed there and you shall be informed where the vessel and master are. [Ibid. No. 168.]
July 15.
Brompton.
William Cayley to Lord [? Dartmouth]. The 13th being informed by Commissary Knowsley that two strangers lately concealed themselves at an alehouse in Cloughton, I immediately ordered some persons he named to meet me, accompanied by Mr. Hutchinson and Mr. Knowsley, at Scarborough to be examined before the bayliffs, because their escape was contrived by a Mr. Moone and others of Scarborough, where the bayliffs in our presence took the enclosed informations which we send to you to be made known to the King or his Council or as you shall think convenient. The bayliffs have secured Moone, who refused to find sureties, and have taken Stephen Thompson's word (brother to William Thompson, late Parliament man) to be forthcoming on any order from his Majesty or the Privy Council. What they confessed was obtained with some difficulty. Thompson would not at first confess the last part of his deposition and the bayliffs in excuse pretended that no proclamation or order to search or watch came to them. Mr. Hutchinson has given Sir Christopher Musgrave an account of these papers and Mr. Knowsley has sent copies of the enclosed informations to Sir Thomas Slingsby, who will consult this matter with your lordship. [S.P. Dom., Car. II, 428, No. 169.]
Sunday, [July 15 or 22.]
Lo[wer Swell.]
[Sir Robert Atkyns to Hugh Speke.] I know I am in a safe hand and deal with a gentleman in corresponding with you and may therefore have great confidence, nor shall I give any just occasion of offence to any that may read me, but we know what misrepresentations may be made and therefore I cannot be too wary. I would not put you in a hurry in transcribing; take your own reasonable time in remitting to me what I have sent you and favour me how it relishes with our friends, what satisfaction it gives, and I wish it may be serviceable to them. It is possible Lady Russell may communicate more to you than you have received from me for the assistance of our friends. I cannot believe but she has divers that present her with their thoughts about my lord's trial, whose labours may be for the benefit of others. Excuse me for your trouble in transmitting the enclosed to my lady. She and you have shown me the way. I thank you for your so careful supplying to my last, wherein I was defective, being in haste, as I am forced still to be in answering letters by the carrier. I am so extremely straitened in time, for my letters come not till very late on Saturday nights and I must send away my answer this very day, a mile from me. I thank you for the good account you send me. Pray commend me heartily to our worthy friends. As to what persons may be of the jury in trials of treason (wherein I find there was a long dispute in my lord's trial) see Dyer's reports, fol. 99. 40s. in freehold or 100l. in goods may serve. This book I do not find either court or counsel took notice of. I shall give you an account of what passes between me and Mr. Johnson. [Signature and most of the date and address torn off. Ibid. No. 170.]
July 15. Minutes of proceedings before the Council. Present the same as at the meeting of the 14th. Pringle called in. Born in Moray, 8 years in London at St. George's church, Southwark, being employed by the parish and as an usher in Houndsditch. Was in trouble for debt, which caused his going away. He asked relief of Avery of Newbury and, when he refused to give him any, told him perhaps his name was in the plot. Never saw Nelthorp. Has seen Ferguson. Never preached in conventicles, is a conformable man. Has in the North of Ireland a relation called Gordon, whither he was going. Sheriff Rich to be asked concerning him.
West to be carried to the Marshalsea by Habeas Corpus. Mr. Graham to be sent to about it.
Mr. Graham to take care that the trials be published with the greatest caution possible.
Lincoln's Inn Fields to be the place of Lord Russell's execution, the others at Tyburn. Lord Russell to be beheaded. Capt. Richardson to be told that Lord Russell may have any minister he may desire.
Mr. Baillie called in. Has nothing to say. Asked if he knows Ferguson, answers, he does not know. Does not know the consequences of answering any question. Mr. Shepard called in. Baillie says he has seen him, who says Baillie came to him to treat of a rising. Sir J. Cochrane and the Campbells had the same business. Baillie told him he advised the Earl of Argyle to accept of 10,000l., which he would remit to him. Baillie said Mr. Charlton had undertaken to raise the whole 10,000l. Baillie makes no answer. Shepard says he spoke a little with Commissary Monro what he knew of the business and spoke some time of raising the money. Sir J. Cochrane knows of it too.
Nisbet asked whether the little letter from Stepney be his hand cannot say 'tis his. Disowns the trading letter.
The Common Serjeant to attend the Lord Keeper to-morrow at 8.
Mr. Lea informs that John Noyes, a linen draper, had discoursed with him of the design of killing the King and that he would furnish him with 10 men.—To be sent for to-morrow. Mr. Lea to see his wife with a messenger.
Mr. Graham to attend the Lord Keeper to-morrow at 8.
Pringle to remain in the gaoler's custody, till inquiry be made from Sheriff Rich.
Heborn called in. Says he is a Scotchman. Lodged a while at Newcastle at Mr. Keen's house, an Englishman near the Quay. Says he has had part of orders. Lay in London half a year. Knows not the woman where he lodged. Knows not Ferguson. Is of Moray. Met the 5 others (pedlars) in London. Never saw Sir J. Cochrane nor Baillie. Cannot determine whether killing the Archbishop was a murder. Thinks himself bound by the Covenant. Never took it. Does not answer whether he thinks it lawful to take up defensive arms against the King. Thinks he ought to obey him in the Lord in civil matters. Was bred up in Aberdeen. Is 33. Hopes none taught him his principles but the Lord. His father's taking the Covenant obliges him. Went to Scotland to lurk. Cannot determine whether the business of Bothwell Bridge was unlawful. Thinks the present plot unlawful, because against the King's person. Did not approve of Cargill's declaration. Is not ordained but preached sometimes. Has seen the test, never took it. Cannot maintain the Covenant and take the test. Says he went out of town because he believes there might be trouble there and he was exhausted. Knew the 5 pedlars not long. They were chapmen that travel with sacks.
Monro says he knows nothing of the rising nor heard any thing of it. Saw Shepard in company with Sir J. Cochrane. Had no particular discourse with him. Sir J. Cochrane's son was there and Sir George Campbell. No discourse of public affairs nor of returning money. Shepard called in. Says Monro said they were dilatory in bringing in the money and 'twas too little. He dined at the Dolphin in Lombard Street with Monro, who told him in the street these delays would ruin them all. Spoke with him half a dozen times. Monro says he knows Mr. Baillie. Shepard was told by Baillie that Monro had the same business, though he pretended Carolina. Monro says he came really about the Carolina business with a commission signed by those concerned. Never saw Aaron Smith.
A considerable number of persons agreed to send persons to England to purchase a plantation in Carolina. Sir J. Cochrane and he were of the number. Will produce his commission. It was to deal with the proprietors. Shepard says he asked Baillie what they would do about Carolina, who answered, if the other business took, they would easily break off that of Carolina. Monro says Cochrane proposed that half of the 8,000l. for Carolina would be raised, half by the gentlemen and half by the merchants. Was never at Col. Sydney's house nor ever spoke with him. Monro to be sent to the Marshalsea. Shepard sworn to what is above mentioned.
Mead sees the little letter from Scott. Says he never saw Nisbet's hand nor does he know this to be his hand. Saw Ferguson 6 weeks ago at Mr. Bourne the father's.
The Scotch pedlars to be examined by Sir P. Lloyd, Mr. Bridgman and Mr. Blathwayt, where they lived in Scotland, how long they have been here and what they did. The examinations to be sent to Scotland. [6½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 428, No. 60, p. 21.]
Another copy of the above minutes and another of part of them. [Ibid. Nos. 171, 172.]
July 15.
Coventry.
The information on oath of Richard Waterfall. About March last he saw in a closet in Capt. Abraham Owen's house several muskets, a pair or two of pistols, two halberts or partizans and two swords. Noted on the back:—
John Marston owns the receipt of a musket from Capt. Owen about Christmas last. Thomas Mosse and Henry Tompson say the same. All three sworn.
Mr. Owen being examined said he gave all the said muskets to the said persons about a month ago. He said on Saturday he had not had any muskets since his arms were last seized about 20 years ago. [Ibid. No. 173.]