|
| Date. |
From |
To |
Subject. |
References. |
|
1653. |
|
|
|
Vol. XLV. |
|
Jan. 1 |
Adm. Com. |
Navy Comrs
|
To consider and to confer with the Ordnance officers on a letter of David Davison to Rich. Salway,
that there being great want of cordage and hemp for the summer fleet, and much difficulty in
obtaining it, he offers his services. |
1, 1a
|
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
" |
The fire-ships are fitting out, but require commanders and men, the Endeavour from Barbadoes
would make one. The clerk of the survey wants survey books; the crew of the Pearl, who have
been out 18 months, will not stir until they have their money. Particulars of other ships. |
2 |
|
Jan. 1 |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
Navy Comrs
|
Published their letter for the encouragement of the Carpenter's crew. The Ruby and Portsmouth
are gone to cruise in the Channel; the Pearl and President want money, and will not stir
without it, and the Guinea and others are victualling. Thinks the service will be obstructed
by the Parliament order for stewards to have charge of the victuals, and pursers to be clerks
of the check. Wants orders about 5l. per 100 men for the sick and wounded; also for purchase of pipe-staves and masts. A prize at Cowes can be made into a man-of-war for 160l. |
3 |
|
" " |
Ra. Herman, Mayor, Exeter. |
Adm. Com. |
Published the resolutions of Parliament yesterday in the market place and other public places,
and also made proclamation charging all mariners and seamen to repair on board the State's
ships for the present expedition. |
4 |
|
" " |
Dutch Prize officers |
Navy Comrs
|
Never received any order from Council or the Navy Committee to deliver up any ships, nor have
power to dispose of them but by sale by the candle, without an order. Send an appraisement of
the Wildman and Falcon. The Dutch fleet were much scattered by the storm, and must have
returned home, but 20 nimble frigates in the Narrow seas would do much good, the Holland
merchantmen not supposing our fleet at sea. |
5 |
|
" " |
Comr. P. Pett, Chatham. |
" |
Finds General Blake here. Wants oakum, &c. to proceed with the graving and cleaning of the
ships. |
6 |
|
" 3 |
" |
" |
Is graving the Rainbow and other ships, but wants provisions; also 60 doz. links for the night,
which may be bought of Mr. Hitches in Budge Row, at 2s. or 3s. 4d. per dozen. |
7 |
|
" " |
Dutch Prize officers |
" |
Will assign the Red boat at Yarmouth to Hen. Richardson or Jno. Tonner, for bringing up
timber for the State, when she has been appraised, and they are empowered to do so by the
Navy Committee. |
8 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
Would have contracted with the Navy Victuallers for provision for the 14,000 men, but they
demanded 8½d: per man a day, whereas before they had offered to take 8d. for 10,000. |
9 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Contracted with Hen. Roach, Jno. Wright, and Wm. Wood, mast merchants, for fetching some
masts and tar from New England, provided the Commissioners for Dutch Prizes would let them
buy the Wildman and Falcon; but the Commissioners allege they have no power to deliver
them but by sale by the candle, without special order. |
|
" " |
" |
" Chatham. |
Send a list from Capt. Hatsell of officers and men required for the fleet. Blake is at Chatham.
Recommend the son of Mr. Tearne, clerk of the check, who is also recommended by Capt.
Penn and the Vice-Admiral, as clerk of the survey at Deptford. |
10 |
|
" " |
Robert Coytmor |
" |
Sends letters just come to hand |
11 |
|
" " |
Edw. Ashe, London. |
Thos. Scott, Whitehall. |
The State has given order to take up some ships in the Straits for men-of-war, which will want
men; there are a number of seamen confined as slaves in Algiers, who might be redeemed if
money and ships might be had. Will get some merchants to furnish both at Venice, Naples,
or Leghorn, to fetch away 400 or 500, if the State will undertake the cost. |
12 |
|
Jan. 3 |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Will follow their orders as to the sick and wounded men; requires an order to sell four ships unfit
for service. |
13 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
The Guinea waits for sails and a surgeon. Mr. Eastwood's stay in London interferes with
the building of the frigates and hoy. Asks to buy 20 bales of Noyals canvas at 16l. 15s. a
bale. |
14 |
|
" " |
John Francland, clerk of the check, Tynemouth Castle. |
Navy Comrs
|
After bringing the fleet to Harwich, stayed in Osier Bay for a light fleet there, and then sailed
with them to Newcastle; there are now upwards of 80 sail there, waiting a wind, some laden
with salmon, salt beef, merchandize, and coals. There being daily reports of men-of-war upon
the coast, six or eight in a fleet, the Mayor of Newcastle has advised the stay of the ships in
the harbour, until our navy is moving. |
15 |
|
" " |
Barth. Yate, Newcastle. |
" |
Wants cables and sails, as they are not to be had at Newcastle; 150 able seamen have arrived
there, because they will not serve the State; wishes he had orders to send them back. MajorGeneral Deane is expected here to-morrow. |
16 |
|
" " |
Thos. Scott, Whitehall. |
Sir Hen. Vane, junr. |
Mr. Morris, from Antwerp, reports that several Holland men-of-war have been stranded and
perished near Scheveling, and that the Dutch are raising 10,000 foot in Germany, besides
levying at home. A merchant at Bordeaux writes that 100 sail of Holland merchantmen with
corn, and 4 men-of-war have arrived. A fleet of French ships lately passed the Channel homeward, with sound of trumpet. The Council of State desire his opinion concerning Mr. Ash's
overture. |
17 |
|
" " |
Edw. Bushell, London. |
" |
Has sent for a license for the Good Success as a private man-of-war, or to contract for her hire;
has another at Bugbie's Hole, already victualled and fitted for Barbadoes, but is willing to
contract for her; hopes that his great expense may be considered and further loss prevented.
Hears the Dutch fleet has returned much shaken by the storm. |
18 |
|
" 4 |
Robert Coytmor |
Mr. Blackborne. |
Received his letter and that for his beloved, by Mr. Thurloe, but neither she, Lady Vane, nor Mrs.
Thomson have any answer to return. 200 Dutch merchant ships are gone home through the
Channel. Wishes not to have the title of esquire, as he abhors that and worshipful. |
19 |
|
" " |
Phineas Pett, Chatham. |
Thos. Turner. |
Sends the number of men entered on the George and four other ships on rigging wages |
20 |
|
" " |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Will publish the resolutions of Parliament concerning the Carpenter's crew, as he did those for
encouragement of seamen, which made them more willing to serve. The Gift and Duchess
would be well manned if the officers were commissionated. 200 cwt. of hemp has arrived
at Dartmouth from Brittany; has ordered it to be taken for the service. A vessel from Bilboa
reports there are six ships in the mouth of the Channel, supposed to be Dutchmen; the packetboat from the Mount to Scilly was taken by a Dutch man-of-war, with all her letters. |
21 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
To like effect. Also details of repairs of ships |
22 |
|
Jan. 4 |
Com. Peter Pett, Chatham. |
Navy Comrs
|
Jonas Shish has only sent down 2,000 of the 30,000 reeds ordered; if the remainder are not sent,
the graving of two or three great ships will be delayed; 100l. worth of thrums wanted. Repair
of ships. |
23 |
|
" " |
Thos. Greene, Dover
|
" |
Has drawn three bills on the Treasurer for 205l., payable to the Collectors for French Prize
Goods, for anchors, cables, and sails, taken out of two French prizes, for the use of the Crow,
and bills for 40l. and 20l. payable to Nath. Lawsey. |
24 |
|
" " |
Hen. Darley |
Vane, Carew, and Salwey. |
Sends a letter from a merchant of York respecting some tar, hemp, &c. |
25 |
|
" 5 |
Robert Trundle |
Adm. Com. |
Petition for the place of master carpenter in the frigate building at Yarmouth by Mr. Edgar;
has served five years and sustained many losses. With certificate by Lieut.-Col. Edw. Bellamy. |
26, 27 |
|
" " |
Col. H. Morley |
" |
Will distribute the printed papers for encouragement of seamen; wants orders whether they are
to resort to Chatham or Portsmouth; also about buying hemp. If all the frigates there were
out in a body, they would trouble the Dutch and secure our trade. |
28 |
|
" " |
Rich. Hutchinson, Navy Treasurer. |
Adm. Comrs Chatham. |
Will bring down 12,000l. on Friday night by a convoy, and will pay the two ships at Portsmouth
on Monday; has paid seven ships, and will pay off another to-morrow. |
29 |
|
" " |
Ordnance Com. |
— |
Account of powder in eight garrisons named; total, 977 barrels |
30 |
|
" "? |
" |
— |
" three garrisons, and of ordnance at Aldborough |
31 |
|
" " |
Nath. Manton, for Thos. Richardson. |
— |
Contract to deliver 300 bales of Noyals canvas at 15l., 15l. 10s., and 17l. per bale |
32 |
|
" " |
Wm. Acworth and Wm. Sheldon. |
— |
Account of decayed and useless provisions in the stores at Woolwich. [7 pages.] |
33 |
|
" " |
Adm. Comrs., Chatham Hill. |
Navy Comrs
|
To perfect the contract with the victuallers, hasten down the ships in the river, and the mariners
to the fleet near Quinborough. Major Bourne will go down to pay and despatch the fleet, when
his health permits. |
34 |
|
" " |
" " |
" |
To inquire into the condition of the Roebuck, Dove, and Lady Ketch, laid up at Portsmouth as
unfit for service, and what of their provisions might be sold. |
35 |
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
" |
Wants men for the fire-ships, also masts and sails. Details of ships |
36 |
|
" " |
Elias Pratt, Mayor, Berwick. |
Adm. Com. |
Published the resolves of Parliament last Monday in the market place, himself and the justices
attending, and also nailed them up in public places, so that notice might be taken by those concerned. His endeavours and prayers will not be wanting in this great undertaking. |
37 |
|
" " |
Jno. Thurloe |
Navy Comrs
|
To send a well-skilled person to the Council of State, fit to go to Scotland and purchase masts for
the navy, which can be had very good, and floated by water to the sea. |
38 |
|
" 6 |
Wm. Burton, Yarmouth. |
Thos. Smith and Robt. Thomson. |
Has brought 95 or 1,000 cwt. of cordage at 35s. per cwt., and will give bills for the money, but
they want 40s. a barrel for the tar. The bailiffs only allowed 8s. each to the pressed men they
sent up, instead 11s. 6d. each for 92 miles. [2 copies.] |
39, 40 |
|
Jan. 6 |
Capt. Jno. Sherwin, Primrose, Liverpool Water. |
Adm. Com. |
Wants tackle and cables, and a warrant to enter men. Has set all the few ropemakers at Chester
on work to make small cordage. Has found a man who will make a cable at 50s. the cwt. for 30l.
down, and the rest in two months, and sent him to Mr. Walley. Waits a wind to Dublin, by
the Lord General's order, to carry 6,000l. to him, and then return with some persons of quality.
Hopes not to be cooped up in this channel, the fag end of the world. |
4 |
|
" " |
Capt. Anth. Houlding, Ruby. |
" |
Sailing from Portsmouth to Plymouth with the Ruby and Portsmouth frigate, met a Holland manof-war, and fought him three or four hours, but failed to take him. Has six men wounded,
including the master. Is riding at Spithead to repair damages. |
42 |
|
" " |
Capt. Robt. Dornford, Portsmouth. |
" |
Cruising westward with the Portsmouth, met the Ruby, and both fought a Dutch man-of-war,
and remained with her all night, but she got away. Had one man slain and nine wounded.
Wants a forecastle and leave to tallow. |
43 |
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
Navy Comrs
|
The Ruby and Portsmouth have come for repairs, after some bickering with a Dutch man-of-war.
Account of work done to the Golden Dove. Knows no one fit to view the hemp, pitch, and tar
at Exeter and Topsham. Mr. Davison should be held to his contract as to delivery of his
goods. |
44 |
|
" " |
Christ. Pett, Woolwich. |
" |
For a warrant to sheath the Violet prize |
45 |
|
" " |
Thos. Bendish, Yarmouth. |
Thos. Smith |
Affixed the orders of Parliament in the most public places in the town for several days, and
believes most of the seamen took notice of them. |
46 |
|
" 7 |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
The Success and Brazil frigates are fit for men-of-war |
47 |
|
" " |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Navy Comrs
|
Hopes his bill for 400l. will be met by the Treasurer. Repairs of ships. Wants the officers'
commissions for the Duchess and Gift. There are 10 or 12 Dutch men-of-war westward of the
Channel. |
48 |
|
" " |
Thos. Vallis, Expedition, Plymouth. |
" |
Has cleaned and tallowed, and is taking in provisions, but wants cables and powder |
49 |
|
" " |
Roger Marten, Diamond, Plymouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Has been plying between the Lizard and coast of France, by order of General Monk, and chased
several Dutch; as they are reported to be considerable on the western coast, shall not put to
sea again until further order. The Expedition waits for ammunition. Will sail for Portsmouth with her and the Nicodemus. |
50 |
|
" " |
Capt. Rich. Suffill, Duchess, Plymouth Catwater. |
Mr. Poortmans. |
Has a master's commission for the President, but as she is at sea and the Duchess ready to sail,
desires an exchange with Capt. Sparling, who prefers the President. Wants a press warrant,
and warrants for the officers. |
51 |
|
" " |
Adm. Com. |
Navy Comrs
|
Order to direct the setting forth of the Crow, and to inquire what use can be made of the other
French prizes at Dover. |
52 |
|
" " |
Thos. Greene |
" |
All the work is done on the Crow, but she wants seamen, ammunition, and gunner's stores |
53 |
|
" " |
Hen. Warren, Jonathan, Hope. |
" |
Sends muster of the men on board in December and January. The captain wants a new contract,
because the seamen's pay is advanced. |
54 |
|
Jan. 7 |
Hump. Fellstead, Marigold, Chester. |
Navy Comrs
|
Having lost his long boat, Alderman Walley has advanced 22l. towards building another at
Liverpool, and has given him a bill of exchange on them. Wants stores, and an order to Walley
to pay him 50l. more for present use. |
55 |
|
" " |
Adm. Comrs., Chatham. |
" |
To send down to the Hope all the mariners who have offered their services since the publication of the Act for mariners, and to correspond with the Generals of the fleet thereon. |
56 |
|
" 8 |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
Fitting out of ships as men-of-war and fire-ships |
57 |
|
" " |
Com. P. Pett, Chatham. |
" |
Particulars of the graving and victualling of ships. The seamen are tractable, "and begin to
attend their duties handsomely." Will send an account of the fitting of the fleet for sea.
Begs that men may be speedily sent. |
58 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
Sends a demand of Rob. Sewell, storekeeper, for provisions. Nine ships have been graved; there
is a great want of reed and broom. With Sewell's demand. |
59, 60 |
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
" |
Sends estimate for building a hoy, theirs being 20 years old; it will cost 20 per cent. less there
than in the State's yards. Asks a supply of stores. |
61, 62 |
|
" " |
Saml. Windis, Chester
|
" |
Victualling of the Marigold. Has been much pressed for money, and the contractors refused to
accept his bills; has drawn one on Mr. Wainwright for 300l., and another on them for
1,011l. 10s. Cannot victual under 8½d. a day, and should have as good a rate as the State
allows. Has some of the spirit that rested on Lord Brooks, and on worthy Pym and
Hampden. |
63 |
|
" " |
Ordnance officers |
" |
Are sending directions to Plymouth for furnishing the Gift with gunner's stores, and for exchanging the guns of the Guinea at Portsmouth. Want the names of the six ships to be fitted out
as fire-ships. Cannot obtain any powder at Plymouth, as there is no magazine there. |
64 |
|
" 9 |
Sam. Bloyes, Mayor, Penrhyn. |
Adm. Com. |
Proclaimed the resolutions of Parliament in the market and other public places by beat of drum,
and gave notice to the seamen to repair on board the fleet. |
65 |
|
" " |
Rich. Ethes, Dep. Mayor, Deal. |
Vane and Thomson. |
To like effect. The major part of the seamen in the town are willing to serve on the terms
expressed. |
66 |
|
" 10 |
Mayor and Jurats of Sandwich. |
Adm. Com. |
To like effect. Published them also at Deal and Romansgate [Ramsgate] |
67 |
|
" " |
Com. P. Pett, Chatham. |
" |
Graving and victualling of the Victory and other ships. The General will sail with the Triumph
to-morrow, and the officers for the ships ought to be sent down. Will go down to the fleet to
despatch their orders. A Commissioner is wanted at Chatham to pay the fleet. Has paid nearly
600l. to men wounded in the last engagement with the Dutch from the Prize Office. Unless
some allowance is made to the chest, it cannot satisfy the bitter cries of these poor people.
Thinks in such cases they should be paid from the Prize Office. |
68 |
|
" " |
Gen. Robt. Blake Chatham. |
" |
Sends the petition of Wm. Hopkins, carpenter, and recommends him for employment in the ship
being built by Mr. Taylor at Wapping. |
69 |
|
Jan. 10 |
Barth. Yate, Newcastle. |
Navy Comrs
|
Asks for a supply of cables and stores by the Newcastle ships from London, or a letter from the
Commissioners for Dutch Prize Goods to the collector here, for 40l. to furnish himself. With
note to the latter to give him 46l., and charge bills therefor. |
70 |
|
" " |
Hannah Barrow, Gravesend. |
" |
Sends muster books of ships mustered in the Hope by a deputy, during her late husband's illness.
Asks payment of what was due to him, for the support of herself and children. |
71 |
|
" " |
Admiralty Com. |
" |
Reference of the petition of Wm. Ashley, seaman, for compensation for loss of anchor, cable, sails,
and rigging belonging to the John of Stroud, while shipping 50 soldiers on board the General
of the fleet. |
72 |
|
" " |
Christ. Pett, Woolwich. |
" |
Asks for orders as to fitting out the Sophia, taken by Capt. Gilson in the Speaker, as a man-ofwar. |
73 |
|
" " |
Phineas Pett |
Thomas Turner. |
Sends the number of men entered on the Nonsuch and five other ships. Has disbursed 20l. more
than his bill of imprest. |
74 |
|
" " |
Robert Sansum, Bryer frigate, Lynn. |
Robert Coytmor. |
Has been convoying vessels from Lynn to Yarmouth, and will sail with a fleet to Newcastle |
75 |
|
" " |
Roger Quarles, Thames. |
Katherine Quarles, his sister, Smithfield. |
Thanks for helping him to some employment. Is familiar with arithmetic, and his cousin will put
him in the way for a clerkship. His brother and sister have safely arrived at Bristol. |
76 |
|
" " |
Major William Burton, Yarmouth. |
Smith and Thomson. |
Particulars of cordage and yarn bought, and to be sold. The masts will be required for the ships
now building there. |
77 |
|
" " |
Capt. Lionel Lane |
Navy Comrs
|
Certificate that Hen. Kyme served as a volunteer in the Victory under his command in the last
summer's expedition, and had a warrant from General Blake for a purser's place in the John
Baptist, but the Council of State had granted the place to another. |
78 |
|
" 11 |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
Beg their order for building a hoy for Mr. Willoughby at Portsmouth, at a cost of 186l. |
79 |
|
" " |
William Bennett, Mayor, Chester. |
" |
Proclaimed the resolves of Parliament concerning seamen in the most public places of the city,
and afterwards affixed them upon posts, that they might be better known. |
80 |
|
" " |
Gens. Robt. Blake and Geo. Monck, Chatham. |
" |
Recommend Wm. Warr, late boatswain, and Thos. Rumney, carpenter of the Garland, for employment. With three petitions of Rumney, one of Warr, and one of both together, pleading
their 17 and 19 years' service and losses in the Garland, taken in the late engagement, and
begging places on one of the new frigates. |
81-86 |
|
" " |
Rich. Suffill, Duchess, Catwater. |
" |
Thanks for his commission. Will sail for the Sound in a few days. Asks warrants for the
officers. Is victualled for 90 men for three months, but she deserves more. |
87 |
|
Jan. 11 |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Robt. Blackborne. |
Received the captains' commissions for the Gift and Duchess, and waits for those for the inferior
officers. Asks what number of men and guns they are to carry. Repair, &c. of ships. Will
secure the hemp for sale at Dartmouth, and has purchased some tallow brought from Ireland. |
88 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Delivered his letter to his brother. Will endeavour to obtain fit men as officers for the ships.
Great preparations are being made here and at Dartmouth and Barnstaple for the sailing of the
ships for the Isle of May and Newfoundland; as they will carry away 2,000 seamen, it is
thought they ought to be forbidden to proceed this year. Three ships of London have arrived
at Falmouth from Barbadoes with sugar, and two from Portugal. |
89 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
Anth. Skinner is to supply the Gift with gunner's stores. Capt. Edw. Blagg is a fit person to take
command of the Sampson, which is repairing, being much torn with shot when taken by Capt.
Marten. Mr. Ford of Exeter has purchased some of the hemp at Dartmouth, but the rest may
be secured for the State. A ship has been brought into Fowey by a private man-of-war, laden
with deals and cordage. Thanks for accepting his bill of exchange. Hopes the gunners' stores
purchased for the Diamond and Expedition will be allowed. |
90 |
|
" " |
Edm. Button, Gravesend. |
" |
Is now ready to receive and carry to the fleet such mariners as may be sent down |
91 |
|
" " |
Saml. Howitt, Laurel, Chatham River. |
" |
To grant bills to Mr. Price, late surgeon of the Foresight, for his imprest money, as also for fitting
him out as surgeon for the Laurel. |
92 |
|
" " |
John Bourne and N. Bourne, Assistance, Gravesend Rd. |
" |
To order some sails and men to be sent down, having to carry money to Quinborough for pay of
the fleet. |
93 |
|
" " |
[Hum. Fellstead], Marigold, Highlake, Chester Water. |
" |
Wants stores, or an order to Alderman Walley to advance him 50l. to purchase them. Is bound
for Galway in Ireland, and there is danger in the way. |
94 |
|
" " |
Phin. Pett, Chatham. |
T. Turner |
Is 20l. out of purse for conduct money, and if 50l. is imprested to him, fears he shall want more |
95 |
|
" " |
John Grenwaye, Custom House, Southampton. |
Navy and Customs' Com., Westminster. |
The Constant Rebecca of London has arrived from St. Lucar, with lemons, oranges, olives, and
6,674 pieces of eight. |
96 |
|
" " |
Admiralty Com. |
Navy Comrs
|
Order for building a new hoy at Portsmouth, to carry timber, ballast, &c. as requested by Mr.
Willoughby. |
97 |
|
" " |
— |
— |
List of eight great ships that will soon be ready to go to the fleet |
98 |
|
" 12 |
Ordnance officers |
Adm. Com. |
Being much impeded in carrying out their contracts, &c. by the absence of the clerks and
labourers attending at Westminster for their arrears of pay, as also by the number of vessels
lying at Tower Wharf, desire a warrant for ordering them off if not engaged by the State, as
also for satisfying the said arrears of pay. |
99 |
|
Jan. 12 |
Ordnance officers |
Adm. Com. |
For an order to contract for ammunition for the summer fleet, for delivery of unserviceable brass
pieces for recasting, and for the attendance of the gunners of ships at the Tower, when the
stores are issued. |
100 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
To supply money for buying East country commodities. To second their recommendations to the
Generals not to discharge so many seamen, as they cannot be supplied. The French prizes at
Dover are unserviceable. To appoint a clerk of the survey at Chatham. To consider the
complaints of the merchant ships of being short of guns and men. To allow the widows of
seamen slain in the service to receive their wages, where they do not exceed 10l., without
administering. To fit out the Sophia prize at Woolwich. To consider the complaints of the
press-master of the watermen, and the propositions from the masters of the Hall that those
who refuse to serve when pressed shall lose the liberty of rowing in the river. To order the
Ordnance officers to furnish the Exchange with guns, and to settle upon commanders and
officers for the four fire-ships, and for the Tulip and two prizes in the river. |
101 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Send the contract proposed by the Navy Victuallers, and ask directions thereon |
102 |
|
" " |
Rich. Hutchinson and Major Nich. Bourne. |
" |
Set out with 25,000l. for the pay of the fleet, but were hindered by fog. Put the money on the
Assistance and came to Chatham. Gen. Blake intends sailing as soon as the wind permits. |
103 |
|
" " |
Rich. Hutchinson, Comr. Peter Pett, and N. Bourne, Chatham. |
" |
The Generals of the fleet approve the means proposed for manning it. Will go to the fleet
to-morrow. Pursers generally refuse to go as clerks of the check, and some of the stewards
refuse to serve. 10 persons were presented as fit for pursers and clerks, and if those selected
are approved of, desire that they may be sent down at once, as there is no one on whom they
can charge the provisions to be taken on board, nor any check to be kept upon them. The
ships are detained for want of a wind. |
104 |
|
" " |
Fras. Harvey, Chatham. |
Robt. Blackborne |
General Blake has come on board, and General Monk will be speedily after us, so that I hope the
money will be with the fleet to-morrow. We want the instructions for the clerks of the check,
as some ships have both them and stewards. The Navy Commissioners are here. |
105 |
|
" " |
Hum. Felsted |
Adm. Com. |
The Marigold wants a master, clerk of the check, and two guns. Victuals are only allowed for
100 men, whereas she had 120. Asks a warrant for John Withers as master. |
106 |
|
" " |
Com. Peter Pett, Chatham. |
" |
The Generals approve of the way propounded for sending down men for the fleet. Four or five
ships are ready to sail. The Treasurer and Major Bourne have arrived. Will send an account
of the ships and frigates here, their rates, number of men, &c. |
107 |
|
" " |
Capt. Anth. Houlding, Portsmouth. |
Robt. Coytmor. |
Asks an order to tallow his ship. The hard censures upon his last meeting a Dutch man-of-war,
that it was an ill omen for one ship to baffle two such frigates, are unjust, as the wind and sea
were against them, and he had orders not to go eastward of the Isle of Wight. |
108 |
|
" " |
Capt. Geo. Dakins, Advice, Chatham. |
Col. Goffe |
Certificate that John London, boatswain, has faithfully served the State in the Advice and Greyhound for three years, and deserves encouragement. |
109 |
|
Jan. 12 |
Rich. Langford |
Rich. Hutchinson. |
Has taken up the second 100l. on a bill of credit granted for paying off the Elizabeth and Ann,
from Thos. Wright, salter of Ipswich. |
110 |
|
" " |
Dutch Prize officers |
Navy Comrs
|
Want surveys of the Sophia at Woolwich, the Sampson at Plymouth, and the Wildman and Falcon
at Blackwall, now discharged and deemed fit for the service. |
111 |
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
" |
Asks an order to pay the wages of Thos. Burgis, employed as a look-out. Only one man of the
28 mentioned in Mr. Turner's list, as having received 3s. 6d. on account for conduct money for
Portsmouth, has appeared. Has been forced to give tickets to some of the mariners of the
Pearl, they being mutinous and ready to create a disturbance for want of their money; one
has broken the pay-house windows, and threatened to pull down the house. |
112 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Survey of a fire-ship at Cowes and five Dutch vessels taken by private men-of-war laden with
French goods. Was offered 9,000 deals at 6l. per 100, and will buy them if ordered. Sends
an estimate of old decayed stores, and the names of six vessels condemned as unserviceable.
Hopes the bill for the hemp will be duly met. The Pearl and President are nearly ready to
sail; the Barbadoes ship, being almost unladen, will want money, as will also the yard and
ordinary; the carpenters will not work when the paymasters come down, without they have
it. Their condition is to be pitied, as they are far from their families, and in a dear and sickly
place. With note of decayed stores. |
113, 114 |
|
" " |
" |
Adm. Com. |
Will see that the owners of the pipe-staves have a proper price for their goods. Cannot recommend any one for the place of clerk of the check or steward, and thinks those already appointed
should remain until their provisions are expended. Desires that the Commissioners for Dutch
Prize Goods may direct their Sub-Commissioners to issue warrants for the 5l. upon each 100
men. Particulars of five prizes at Cowes, two at Poole, and the George Bonadventure and five
others at Portsmouth. |
115 |
|
" 13 |
" |
" |
To appoint a purser and steward to the President, the one being dead, the other undeserving. 30
or 40 sail passed the Isle of Wight yesterday. The Falmouth and Success have gone to Plymouth. There is a great want of men, and those pressed have not appeared; 40 or 50 may be
had at Christchurch. The captains of the President and Portsmouth recommend Wm. Whitehorne and Thos. Watts as their lieutenants. |
116 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Pass for Rich. White and other officers of the Pearl to travel to London without molestation |
117 |
|
" " |
John Taylor, Chatham. |
" |
Asks for another assistant, as the one allowed has been sick ever since he had his warrant. With
note proposing Owen Taylor or Robt. Easton. |
118, 119 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" " |
Sends a contract with the victuallers for victuals for 14,000 men for the ensuing summer, as also
for the erection of buildings for the service. |
120 |
|
" " |
Major William Burton, Yarmouth. |
Mr. Hutchinson. |
Has drawn a bill for 1,000l. payable to Geo. England, by order of Thos. Smith and Robt. Tompson,
Navy Commissioners, and shall shortly draw more. |
121 |
|
Jan. 13 |
Phineas Pett, Chatham. |
Thos. Turner. |
Note of men entered on board the Nonsuch and five other ships named |
122 |
|
" " |
Roger Cuttance |
[Navy Comrs.] |
To order John Jaques, his minister, to repair on board, as the frigate has fallen down the river |
123 |
|
" 14 |
Wm. Sheldon |
Mr. Turner |
Number of men on ships named; asks an order to pay them press and conduct money |
124 |
|
" " |
Rich. Langford, Eliza and Ann, Lee Road. |
Navy Comrs
|
Has arrived in the Thames from Harwich, and would have got to the fleet at Quinborough, but
it was too dark. Wants men and orders. |
125 |
|
" " |
John Morris, Gravesend. |
" |
Has not heard from Mr. Alworth about seamen, but there shall be no neglect in payment or
otherwise. |
126 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
Recommend Robert Bellamy, late purser of the Benown fire-ship, as steward of the Stork prize.
With note and petition of Lieut.-Col. Edw. Bellamy on his behalf. |
127-129 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Ask whether they have changed their resolutions as to sending the Raven to Guinea, as she is
victualled. Enclose statement by Peter Beele sent from Capt. Willoughby of defective provisions at Portsmouth. He also informs them of ships unserviceable, and desires a warrant to sell
them. |
130, 131 |
|
" " |
Wm. Kendall, Success, Plymouth Sound. |
" |
Plying in the Channel, saw a fleet of 60 Hollanders, commanded by the Vice-Admiral of Flushing,
and now hears they are at anchor in Torbay. |
132 |
|
" " |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Navy Comrs
|
The 10,000 cwt. of hemp at Dartmouth has been bought for the State at 32s. per cwt., and the
ropemakers there demand 10s. per cwt. to make it into cordage; can get it done for 8s. at
Plymouth. Has charged a bill on the Navy Treasurer for 200l. |
133 |
|
" " |
" |
Adm. Com. |
Capt. Blagg has accepted the commission. The Success and Falmouth have arrived from Portsmouth, and the Diamond and others will sail towards the Isle of Wight to-morrow. The crew
of the Expedition, having been out 22 months, want money and clothes; they are in a sad condition; desires they may be paid. The Reformation of Dartmouth has arrived from St. Lucar,
bound for London, and is worth 20,000l. The Lubecker brought in by the President has been
freed, so will purchase her lading of tar and deals. |
134 |
|
" " |
Roger Marten, Plymouth. |
" |
Will sail to Portsmouth in the company of the Expedition, Nicodemus, and other ships, tomorrow, but the Success and Falmouth await further orders. |
135 |
|
" " |
Geo. Strelley, Plymouth. |
Rich. Hutchinson. |
Has charged a bill of 10l. on them for an anchor for the Duchess, and asks order respecting her,
and the Gift's stores. |
136 |
|
" " |
Thos. Alderne, London. |
Peter Pett, Navy Comr. Chatham. |
Desires an order to supply ships needing only three months' beer with beer in wooden-bound
casks, and only those for longer periods in iron-bound, as the hoops are difficult to obtain. Also
that the old provisions in the fleet be used up first, the victualling hoy speedily sent back, and
some ships sent into the Hope to be victualled, so as to prevent seamen running on shore. |
137 |
|
" |
Dutch Prize officers |
Navy Comrs
|
Ask whether to contract with Eliz. Sheares, widow, for the Golden prize, according to their order
of the 12th. |
138 |
|
Jan. 15 |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Asks where any Eastland commodities may be had. There are some cables, anchors, and marble
stones with Col. Stapley, which were cast away in a Dutch ship near Arundel, as also some
masts at Jersey. Recommends Geo. Woolfry, late boatswain of the Fox, for employment
in the Guinea. |
1 |
|
" " |
— |
— |
List of 37 State and merchants' ships preparing for the sea, and riding between London and the
Hope, and notes of their forwardness. |
2 |
|
" " |
Hen. Roach and William Wood, Wapping. |
Jno. Thurloe. |
For an order to the Commissioners of Dutch Prizes not to dispose of the Hope, she being fit to
fetch masts from Scotland. |
3 |
|
" " |
Adm. Com. |
Navy Comrs
|
Reference of a memorandum from Jas. Baxter, desiring consideration of the request of the
bailiffs and inhabitants of Malden, that some of the frigates may be built there. |
4, 5 |
|
" " |
" |
" |
Order to furnish Capt. Sherwin with a cable, and supply him with moneys at Liverpool, on his
letter. |
6 |
|
" " |
John Poortmans, Gravesend. |
Adm. Com. |
Sends list of ships ready to sail, but some of whom are delayed, and disorders arise for want of
officers. The men of the London refuse to serve any longer unless paid. Sends the names of
four of the ringleaders. Nath. Ellis, the boatswain of the Sussex, is very profane, and that of
the Kentish frigate a revolter; Capt. Phil. Marshal, commander of the John and Elizabeth,
and then of the Marmaduke, taken by Prince Rupert but recaptured, has been brought in
a prisoner by his men. Capt. Lucas, of the Society, wants his commission, and the Tulip
and Speaker their officers. Is going to Chatham to attend the Navy Commissioners. |
7 |
|
" " |
John Poortmans, Chatham Hill. |
" |
Delivered their letters to General Monk and the Navy Commissioners, and is now going to the
fleet at Quinborough. Desires the removal of Jno. Chiswick, cook of the Convertine, and
John London, gunner of the Vanguard, for misconduct, and sends an information thereon. The
malignity of Phil. Marshal has been since confirmed by Capt. Mildmay. |
8 |
|
" " |
" |
Robert Blackborne. |
Thanks for moving the Admiralty Committee for the person he recommended. Has told Mr.
Harvey he will receive the steward's instructions early. |
9 |
|
" 16 |
Comr. Peter Pett and N. Bourne, Chatham Hill. |
Adm. Com. |
Came from the fleet yesterday, and will return on Tuesday, when they will give Mr. Poortmans all
assistance. Wish all the clerks of the check and stewards were sent down, as the victuals will
be ready for shipping shortly. Send a list of ships at Chatham and Quinborough, with particulars of their rates, ordnance, &c., also of persons recommended for stewards, &c., and desire
that their warrants may be sent down. Blames the victuallers for not providing iron-bound
casks for beer, as the others will perish under the ballast. The Triumph and three others have
sailed, and others will sail to-morrow. |
10 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
To like effect. Want reed and nails, and instructions for clerks of the check and stewards |
11 |
|
Jan. 17 |
Rich. Arnold |
— |
Lists of seamen fit for employment in the service, with their characters. [7 papers.] |
12-18 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
For an order to purchase 100 lasts of tar at Leith. |
19 |
|
" " |
Tobias Randolph, Ratcliffe FreeSchool. |
Navy Comrs
|
For the restitution of Christopher Barrett, gunner of the Phœnix, a runaway apprentice, illegally
harboured by his friends. |
20 |
|
" " |
Robert Ashe, New Prison. |
" |
For pardon for issuing a false note, having been driven to it by poverty and want, through nonpayment of his wages as a seaman. |
21 |
|
" 18 |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Has written the Ordnance officers for stores for the ships. The Diamond and others sailed for
Portsmouth yesterday, and the Success and Falmouth will cruise in the Channel, according to
Council's order. A ship of Brest has taken several coasters between the Lizard and Land's End. |
22 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
Send a list of captains, lieutenants, clerks of the check, and masters, recommended. The want of
officers for the fire-ships is very prejudicial. Send instructions for clerks of the check and
stewards, but fear the change at present will hinder the service. |
23 |
|
" " |
Capt. Rich. Suffill, Duchess. |
" |
Capt. Sparling is indifferent whether to command the President or Duchess. Asks commissions
for his officers, and an order to Capt. Hatsell for four more guns. |
24 |
|
" " |
Dutch Prize officers |
" |
Account of the number and sizes of brass and iron guns taken in prizes named; total, 218 |
25 |
|
" " |
Jno. Gay, Dublin
|
Robert Blackborne. |
Thanks for introducing him and his wife to the Customs' officers at Bristol, and to Mr. Symson,
who expedited their passage. There is a High court of justice set up in Dublin and other places,
and the Lord is answering the many prayers put up by the saints, by making inquisition for blood,
with a witness. Has not yet heard of Mr. Fitzharrett. |
26 |
|
" 19 |
Adm. Com. |
Adm. Comrs Chatham. |
Send the commissions for the clerks of the check. The victuallers have sent 600 tons of beer
in iron bound casks to the fleet. Begs them to hasten the despatching the fleet to sea, and to send
up Jno. Poortmans with accounts. |
27 |
|
" " |
Capt. Thos. Vallis, Expedition, Portsmouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Arrived at Spithead in company of Capts. Marten and Ledgant, from Plymouth, and saw the Navy
Commissioner, who ordered him to bring in his ship to be re-fitted. |
28 |
|
" " |
Capt. Wm. Ledgant, Nicodemus, Portsmouth. |
" |
Asks to be discharged of his command, and appointed to some other frigate. Has given the Navy
Commissioners an account of his frigate. |
29 |
|
" " |
Capt. Roger Marten, Diamond, Portsmouth. |
" |
Arrived here in company of the Expedition, Nicodemus, and several merchantmen, and has orders
from the Navy Commissioners to cruise in the Channel for discovery of the enemy; but has
been 17 weeks at sea, and being very foul, requires an order to clean. |
30 |
|
" " |
Capt. Fras. Willoughby, Portsmouth. |
" |
The Hopewell pink wants a mainmast and victuals, and the master being insolent ought to be
suspended. The Diamond, Expedition, and Nicodemus have arrived from Plymouth, much out
of repair, and their crews destitute, and will not stir until they are paid. Recommends Mathew
Ball to succeed Wm. Whitehorne, gunner of the Providence, appointed lieutenant of the
President. |
31 |
|
Jan. 19 |
Major Bourne, Vanguard, Quinborough. |
Adm. Com. |
Nothing shall be omitted to despatch the fleet, and Mr. Poortmans will give account of stores required; has used his influence with the seamen, who are in good temper, and hopes they will
answer to the encouragement lately given them by Parliament, but some who expected full pay
are dissatisfied, although sensible that the rude carriage of some merited the abatement. The
merchant ships engaged are very zealous for the honour of the nation, but want pay and indemnity. A small quantity of iron-bound casks for beer have been delivered. Has paid off
the Warwick and other ships named, and is continuing to pay. |
32 |
|
" 20 |
Lieut.-Col. Charles Worsley, Jeffrey Elatson, J. Hodgson, Thos. Scott, James' Garrison. |
" |
Recommend the petition of a poor soldier in the Lord General's regiment, who has suffered much,
and is very faithful to the present Government. |
33 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
Have distributed the State's ships into ranks: 1st, 400 men or more; 2nd, 300; 3rd, 200; 4th,
140; 5th, 80; 6th, 40. Several people who have supplied provisions and stores are very pressing for their money. Have contracted with Mr. Bushell for the Brazil frigate at 410l. a month,
he finding victuals and wages. Want orders for taking up other ships. Request that the subtreasurer of the fleet may have money for contingencies, and to pay off tickets of discharged
sick, and wounded men. |
34 |
|
" " |
Com. Peter Pett, Chatham. |
" |
Has received the list of persons appointed clerks of the check and stewards, and their instructions,
and wishes they also had arrived, as the service is retarded. The 600 iron-bound casks for the
fleet had not arrived on Saturday. Sailing of ships. |
35 |
|
" " |
John Dymock, storekeeper, Portsmouth. |
— |
Inventory in detail of all the stores in his custody, surveyed by order of Capt. Fras. Willoughby.
[16 pages.] |
36 |
|
" " |
Admiralty Com. |
— |
Order that Sir Hen. Vane or Col. Thomson present to Council a report on the readiness of the
fleet. |
37 |
|
" " |
" |
Navy Comrs
|
Order to give to all officers concerned the instructions on the duties of clerks of the check and
stewards. |
38 |
|
" " |
General Blake, Quinborow Water. |
" |
To pay the wages due to Capt. Thos. Adams, late commander of the Paul, who is coming up to
London for them, that he may not lose time. |
39 |
|
" 21 |
" |
Adm. Com. |
Recommends the removal of Capt. Hen. Southwood into the Providence |
40 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
Send an extract of a letter from Commissioner Willoughby, requesting the appointment of a
master attendant at Portsmouth, and an account of additions and alterations needed at the yard
there. |
41-43 |
|
" " |
Edmnd. Courteis Guinea Frigate, Spithead. |
Robt. Coytmor. |
The State is much abused by press-masters pressing poor creatures, and leaving able seamen;
desires to be removed into another ship. |
44 |
|
Jan. 21 |
Robert Dobell, storekeeper. |
— |
Account of powder in the stores at Plymouth |
45 |
|
" 22 |
Wm. Smith |
Navy Comrs
|
Account of stores in the rope yard at Woolwich |
46 |
|
" " |
Admiralty Com. |
— |
List of numerous persons petitioning or recommended for preferment as captains, masters, clerks
of the check, boatswains, &c. in the State's ships. [7 sheets, including the names of the next
4 petitioners.] |
47 |
|
[" "] |
Capt. Phil. Holland, late of the Cignet. |
Adm.Com. |
Petition for a larger ship. Deserted merchandising voyages for the service to his loss, and
engaged in two skirmishes with the Dutch. |
48 |
|
[" "] |
Thos. Turner, late in the Sovereign. |
" |
Petition for a captain or master's place |
49 |
|
[" "] |
Phil. Johnson |
" |
Petition for the mastership of the Speaker, or some other ship |
50 |
|
[" "] |
Wm. Hopkins |
" |
Petition for the master carpenter's place on one of the new frigates |
51 |
|
" " |
Capt. John Taylor, Chatham. |
" |
Urges the appointment of an assistant to the Secretary there |
52 |
|
" " |
Comr. Peter Pett, Chatham. |
" |
Particulars of the sailing of ships to the fleet at Quinborough. Intends a general master of the
whole fleet there next Tuesday. Wants 14 guns for the Rainbow, and an order for masts to
be sent from London for the ships at Portsmouth. Hopes Major Bourne will come down on
Tuesday. |
53 |
|
" 24 |
Major Wm. Burton, Yarmouth. |
" |
Recommends Capt. Robt. Collman for the command of a ship, he having served as captain, and
taken several prizes. |
54 |
|
" " |
Capt. Jno. Crampe, George Bonadventure, Cowes. |
— |
Hears that all hired ships under 26 guns are to be discharged; has served with his ship 10 years,
and could carry 26, though only having 20. Asks to be continued in pay until he delivers up
his ship where he was first hired. |
55 |
|
" " |
Ordnance officers. |
Adm. Com. |
Account of arms and ordnance stores formerly allowed to ships from the 1st to the 6th rate, and
of the proposals of the Generals of the fleet as to the allowance for the future. |
56 |
|
" " |
Com. Peter Pett, Triumph, Quinborough. |
" |
Has settled the clerks of the check and stewards, and the ships are being victualled. Will muster
the fleet to-morrow. Proposes that some of the merchant ships hired as convoys be discharged,
and their men added to the fleet. Several ships have been sent to Chatham for repairs, &c. |
57 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
Repeat their desire that the officers for the fire-ships may be appointed |
58 |
|
" " |
Thos. Clements |
" |
Petition for the place of master cook in some ship or frigate. With certificate by Phin. Pett, Thos.
Malery, and four others. |
59,60 |
|
" 25 |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
Robt. Blackborne. |
Asks a warrant to impress men for the Gift and Duchess, and appointment of officers. The
Success and Falmouth have arrived from France. A man-of-war of Brest has taken five or six
coasting barks. Recommends Capt. Robt. Plumleigh, of Dartmouth, for the command of the
Sampson. |
61 |
|
Jan. 25 |
Admiralty Com. |
Navy Comrs. |
To order the victuallers to supply small vessels of the fleet with four months' provisions, and the
larger with five. |
62 |
|
" " |
Com. Peter Pett, Chatham. |
Thos. Powell, steward of the Paul. |
Sends him a copy of the instructions ordered by the Navy Commissioners to be furnished to all
stewards of ships; viz.: to take charge of harbour and sea victuals; indent with the victuallers
for all sent on board; issue none to supernumeraries without special order; and give receipts for
any transferred from other ships to his. |
63 |
|
" 26 |
Robert Coytmor |
[Sir Hen. Vane.] |
Returns the letters to the Vice-Admirals of Essex and Sussex, as there are no such persons;
only knows two in the commonwealth, viz., Col. Rouse, Vice-Admiral of Cornwall, and Mr.
Elliott of Devon. The Admiralty Committee have sent their opinion as to impressing seamen
to Council, who have ordered proclamation to be made accordingly, and written the justices
of Surrey, Middlesex, and Kent to send up lists of all seamen and watermen within their precincts, and ordered the masters and wardens of Watermen's Hall to enlist 500 watermen as
seamen, the Navy Commissioners appointing them three assistants. |
64 |
|
" " |
Adm. Comrs., Chatham Hill. |
Navy Comrs
|
To hasten the shipping of the New England and other masts and provisions for Portsmouth, as a
convoy will be going there this week; also to order Capt. Wildey to send all the State's ships in
the river to the fleet. |
65 |
|
" 27 |
Thos. Newberry |
— |
Account of ordnance brought from various garrisons in the Nicodemus, and put on shore at Portsmouth. [2 copies.] |
66,67 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
[Adm. Com.] |
Will send the masts at Chatham to Portsmouth. Council has ordered the master and wardens
of Watermen's Hall to put 510 watermen on board the fleet in the Hope, and made proclamation
for all officers and seamen to repair on board by Saturday on pain of death, and all other
seamen to list at Trinity House, and the constables of each parish to send a list of those lodging
therein. Officers for fire-ships are very shy, and Capt. Gregory refuses to serve, so they must
find some themselves; have asked Mr. Willoughby to provide them for the two at Portsmouth.
Adam Smith, formerly captain of the Jonathan fire-ship, has solicited like employment. |
68 |
|
" " |
Capt. Robt. Sansum, Bryer, Tynemouth Haven. |
Robt. Quitmore [Coytmor]. |
Cruising on the North coast, fell in with a Flushing man-of-war that had taken three English
vessels; having fired a broadside, he yielded and two of the English ships were rescued; should
have had the other but night set in, and he had a fleet under his charge. Has left the prize with
the Collectors for Prize Goods; as she has 15 guns and other provisions and is a good sailer,
she will make a serviceable man-of-war. |
69 |
|
" 28 |
John Madock, Mayor, Plymouth. |
Adm. Com. |
Received their order for impressing seamen, and his brethren and officers are in diligent execution
of it; will send up an account of the men pressed. |
70 |
|
" " |
Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Plymouth. |
" |
Delivered their letters to the Vice-Admirals of Devon and Cornwall, and to the Mayor of Plymouth and Capt. Blagg. The Governor of St. Christopher's writes that Prince Rupert is at
Guadaloupe with two ships, having lost his brother Maurice in a late hurricane. |
71 |
|
Jan. 28 |
Wm. Kiffen and two others, London. |
NavyCom. |
Certificate that Jas. Moddie (who has lived many years in Holland, but by reason of the differences
and deadness of trade has been forced to repair to his own nation) is a very honest man, and
capable of any ordinary employment. Noted that he served the West India Company at sea
five years. |
72 |
|
" " |
Jno. Davies |
" |
Inventory of stores at Deptford. [6 pages] |
73 |
|
" 28 |
Capt. John Taylor, Chatham Dock. |
Adm. Com. |
Suggests in the building of ships that one experienced carpenter be appointed as overseer; it will
only cost 20l. or 24l. to each ship, and they will be hundreds of pounds the better. Account of
ordnance wanted for the George. |
74 |
|
" " |
Thos. Mathew, Mayor, Wm. Nottell, and Rich. Harris, aldermen, Barnstaple. |
" |
Will impress what seamen they can within their own limits, which do not extend beyond the
parish and town, but send the names of magistrates at Bideford, Northam, and Ilfracombe, who
will do the like beyond them. |
75, 75a
|
|
" " |
Edw. Spurwaie, Mayor, Dartmouth. |
Sir Hen. Vane. |
Has given orders to the constables to summon all the mariners to appear at the Guildball tomorrow at 8 a.m., that they may receive press and conduct money. |
76 |
|
" " |
Adm. Comrs., Chatham Hill. |
Adm. Com. |
To quicken the victuallers to send down the provisions to the fleet, and take their account; also
to take steps for supplying seamen, and hasten away the masts and provisions for Portsmouth
and the ships in the river; also to inform clerks of the check that if they are not at Chatham
by to-morrow, their places will be disposed of to others. |
77 |
|
" " |
William Wildey, London. |
" |
Gave a list of the ships in the river to Mr. Poortmans, their clerk, and will hasten them down with
all speed. Particulars of their stations. |
78 |
|
" " |
Thos. Scott |
[Navy Comrs.] |
The master of the Centurion is willing to take charge as pilot for the Downs, but desires some
consideration. No victuals have come down to the Martin, and there is a want of tar. The
Falcon and Wildman fire-ships are at Blackwall; will hire men to bring them to Deptford. The
Centurion wants some carpentering done. |
79 |
|
" " |
Thos. Greene |
" |
Has given a bill upon them for 120l. for goods bought, and hopes it will be met |
80 |
|
" 29 |
Ro. Dornford, Portsmouth. |
Adm. Com. |
The Portsmouth frigate will be ready for service next Tuesday, and has had much work done on
her. |
81 |
|
" " |
Capt. Anth. Houlding, Ruby, Portsmouth. |
" |
Will sail to Spithead, and the Pearl is ready to go with him. Desires order to Mr. Newberry to
supply him with some guns out of the Nicodemus; wants powder, shot, and a commission for
Edw. Leverick to be his lieutenant. |
82 |
|
Jan. 29 |
Geo. Price, London
|
Navy Comrs
|
Has not yet received the cash for masts and deals sold last May for ready money, and Mr. Hutchinson cannot appoint any time when he will pay. The goods are now worth double the price.
Being an Eastland merchant, has been involved in the hazard if not loss of 5,000l. in hemp,
masts, &c. detained by the King of Denmark, which he provided on contract for this commonwealth. Mr. Shish now wants some oars, which will amount to 700l. more, and which he can
have, provided they are paid for at the time agreed upon, and if an order is given for payment of the masts and deals, and allowance made for the forbearance. |
83 |
|
" " |
Adm. Comrs., Chatham Hill. |
" |
Robert George has been a diligent hearer of God's word, and of honest and religious conversation.
Asks whether, as he is purser of the Martin, he shall be continued as clerk of the cheek. Noted
that a warrant was granted for him. With certificate by Jas. Langley, minister of St. George's
Southwark in his behalf. |
84, 85 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
Adm. Com. |
Send an account from the victuallers of provisions despatched to the fleet. Have hired a ship to
transport the masts from Portsmouth. All commanders are ordered to go down to the fleet
with their ships. The addresses of the clerks of the check are not known; will give them
notice as they come in. Desire that Wm. Partridge, former master of the Rebecca fire-ship,
may be appointed captain of the Wildman. |
86 |
|
" 30 |
Saml. Taverner, Governor of Deal Castle. |
" |
Saw four ships on the back of the Sand eastward, and supposes they are part of the Dutch fleet,
as several guns were fired. |
87 |
|
" 31 |
Wm. Harding |
Sir Hen. Vane, Chatham. |
Sends an order and petition, and hopes the bearer will have an order for the convoy desired, as
the money for Jersey and Guernsey is ready for transportation. The Governors there will
be able to send over 200 or 300 seamen for the service, if directed. |
88 |
|
" " |
Hen. Dawson, Mayor, Newcastle. |
Adm. Com. |
Issued warrants to the several constables to bring in all the mariners and seamen they could
find; most of the ships of the town had sailed, but the men can be pressed when they come
to London; there are five ships waiting for men. Those pressed will have conduct money,
and notes to repair to Nath. Tearne at Deptford. |
89 |
|
" " |
Rich. Newberry |
" |
Sends list of the officers and note of the men of the Entrance, with remarks as to their fitness, &c. |
90 |
|
" " |
Navy Comrs. |
" |
To order the captains of ships in the fleet, when men are turned over, to give their tickets to their
new captain, that he may keep them until their discharge, which will prevent the loss of men
in coming for their wages. Beg consideration for [Geo. Price] and others induced to part with
their goods for ready money, and then deceived; for the credit of the service, such debts should
be cleared. |
91 |
|
Jan. 31 |
Ordnance officers |
Adm. Com. |
Have issued all the powder in the stores, and cannot proceed further without a fresh supply. Enclose
account of powder in the makers' hands upon old contracts; no one has brought any in
upon the new, save Mr. Dewey. Furnished the Welcome, but 39 barrels have been returned
damaged, through a leakage in the ship. Ask orders to send away a hoy with ammunition for
Portsmouth, and to remove 300 barrels of powder from Dover there, where 20 sail are waiting
for stores. |
92 |
|
Jan. |
— |
— |
Estimate of the cost of setting a small ship at Ratcliffe to sea for six months |
93 |
|
" |
Adm. Com. |
Navy Comrs
|
Order to present a perfect list of all State vessels and merchant ships now employed, with their
dimensions, and numbers of men and guns. |
94 |
