Letters and Papers relating to the Navy, &c.: August 1653

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1653-4. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1879.

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'Letters and Papers relating to the Navy, &c.: August 1653', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1653-4, (London, 1879) pp. 472-487. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1653-4/pp472-487 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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August 1653

Date. From To Subject References.
Vol. 57.
Aug. 1 John Cruso, deputy clerk of the check, Yarmouth. Robt. Blackborne Capt. Odey has sailed southward, and the Swan, Sparrow, Unity and 10th Whelp, northward, with 200 sail under their convoy. It is reported from Dunkirk that an engagement took place with the Dutch fleet last Friday, and did not end until last night. 1
" " Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Have referred Robert Lee, who lost his right arm while in the Leopard, for relief to the chest; but recommends him for 10l. more, as he lost his clothes in coming overland from Leghorn. 2
" " " " Send a request to them from the captain of the Success, but as the matter is entrusted to the Lieutenant of the Tower, desire directions. 3
" " John Carter, Deal Navy Comrs The Mayor of Sandwich agreed to provide lodging for sick and wounded seamen, but declined to disburse one farthing; having paid as far as he is able, desires either to be discharged of the business or to have some money. Asks warrant for the assistance of the garrison soldiers in impressing seamen, as they hide and run to avoid serving. 4
Aug. 1 Comr. Peter Pett, Chatham. Navy Comrs Will meet them to-morrow at Woolwich at 1 p.m., about a dock there. Thinks the fleet has been engaged since 2 a.m. yesterday, as the guns have been heard very hot; this is confirmed by a letter from Deal. 5
" 2 Wm. Jackson, clerk of the check, Sampson, Portsmouth. " Has been fitted, and is taking in the provisions. Asks a further allowance for the sick and wounded on board, and for victuals consumed while in harbour. 6
" " Capt. Rob. Thorpe, Red Heart pink, Hull. " On the 30th ult., took a French vessel with wine and other goods belonging to Dieppe, and bound for Scotland, and delivered her up at the Prize Office at Hull. Asks an order to Col. Overton, the Governor, to supply him with guns. 7
" " Fras. Lucas and 3 others, Portsmouth. Account of 4 unserviceable ships and sundry stores 8
" " Like account, with list of stores required on 4 July 9
" 3 Like account and demand for Deptford, and for a frigate building at Woolwich 10
" " Survey of serviceable stores at Deptford 11
" " Wm. Burton, Whitehall. Navy Comrs Desires order to Mr. Hutchinson, Navy Treasurer, to pay a bill he has drawn on him in favour of Samuel Cooper for 400l., as he has to lay out money daily for the ropemakers and others; also an order about the sailmakers. 12
" " Capt. Robert Vessey, Truelove, Hope. " Has delivered the 34 pressed men received at Portsmouth to Capt. Hatsell, who put them on board the Elias. As his ship is out of repair and victuals, is going to Deptford. 13
" " Capt. John Sherwin, Primrose, Hope. " Has brought the pressed men from Portsmouth; asks orders as to their disposal, and about his ship; has no beer, and only 4 days' provisions. 14
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. Adm. Com. Presumes they are refreshed by the news of the victory over the deceitful and proud enemy, and will forward all letters received from the fleet. Has put 80 recovered men on boord the Merlin and another vessel at Ipswich, and taken 50 out of the Concord, whom he has sent to the fleet; several vessels with beer, &c., are ready to sail. The beer sent from London is not good. Received the letters of credit upon the Collectors for Customs, and will be as careful as possible to keep down expense. 15
" " " " Navy Comrs Desires order to Mr. Needler, surgeon, how to dispose of some wounded seamen that he has brought up with him into the hospitals. 16
" 4 " " Adm. Com. Having heard from Gen. Monk of his intention to come in to Southwould Bay with the whole fleet to fit and recruit, asks a supply of stores, and will give the ships all possible despatch. 17
" " John Gregorie, clerk of the check, Reformation. " Muster roll of the ship, 1652–3 18
" " Robt. Matkey, Exeter Merchant, Yarmouth. " Having lost his masts in the late engagement, and lost the fleet, has come in for orders 19
Aug. 4 John Hudleston Adm. Com. Petition to be retained as steward of the Paragon; with certificate of Capt. Rich. Badiley and Anth. Watts, in his behalf. 20, 21
" " Rob. Close and John Whetstone. Certificate that 9 officers and 15 men named, behaved valiantly when the fire-ship attacked the Triumph, so that she was put off without great damage to the ship. 22
" " Constance, widow and administratrix of Rich. Hopkins. Adm. Com. Petition for relief. Her husband, as eldest son, would have had most of the estate of his sickly father, aged 90, had he lived. With certificate by Capt. Rich. Badiley, that Rich. Hopkins of the James and Bonadventure lost his life by falling down the hold while in Leghorn, and left a wife and 5 children. 23, 24
" 5 Capt. John Taylor Navy Comrs Recommends the bearer for employment as master of a hoy, and an order to the storekeepers to contract for the hire of the boy. 25
" " Capt. Saml. Windis, Gravesend. Lieut.-Col. Thomson. Has been ordered to Chatham, been at much expense in shifting sick men from the Primrose to the Nightingale, and paid 190l. for pilot's wages; he desires the Commissioners will sign some tickets, and deliver them to his wife, so that she may receive the money and pay it where it is due. 26
" " Capt. Roger Marten, Bristol Frigate, near the Whidick. Adm. Com. Having no beer, has taken some out of the Nicodemus, as also a pilot, and sent her to the Downs to hasten the Black Raven and Pearl to the fleet, and will quickly follow. 27
" " Thos. Scott, Deptford. [Navy Comrs.] Asks for cables from Chatham for the hulk and two other ships, or must have new ones made at Woolwich, to prevent danger. 28
" " Capt. Hump. Fellsteed, Marigold, off the Texel. Robt. Blackborne. Sends the papers found on board a Hamburg ship, laden with pitch and tar, and taken on the coast of Holland. Has been looking for the English fleet, but unsuccessfully. 29
" " Admiralty Com. Navy Comrs To order payment to Lieut.-Col. Fras. White for his disbursements for cloth, &c. for the soldiers of Col. Goffe's regiment, sent to the fleet, seeing defalcations made from their pay. 30
" 6 Major N. Bourne, Resolution, off Dunwich. Adm. Com. As the Generals wrote that they are sending ships into Harwich, thought it best to go down and prepare for them. As there is a great want of masts in the fleet, desires some may be sent down to Harwich with all speed; being sensible of their scarcity, will piece all he can. Will be at Harwich to-morrow, and hasten the fitting out of the 20 frigates ordered in. 31
" " " " Navy Comrs To the same effect as the latter part of the above 32
" " Capt. Rich. Pettock, Hare pink, Dover. Adm. Com. While lying off Dunkirk, chased 4 Dutch ships, and got two on shore, but one escaped; has brought the other, laden with French wines for Holland, into Dover. 33
" " Phineas Pett, Chatham Dock. Robt. Blackborne. Repair and fitting out of ships; regrets they lay so long in the Hope, after leaving Chatham. Hopes the recent victory over the Dutch will prove beneficial to the nation. 34
" " Capt. Ra. Grundy, Guinea Frigate, Sole Bay. Navy Comrs Sends the muster books, with particulars of powder used in the engagement with the Dutch. Wants instructions to survey the powder, to prevent deceit. 35
Aug. 7 Capt. Jno. Taylor, Chatham. Adm. Com. The Arms of Holland and the Primrose have come in to repair their masts, and as they may be refitted in a few days, asks whether the crew shall be kept on board. There are several ships in the Hope, waiting for victuals. The shot come to hand is not fit for English ordnance, nor for any Dutch ordnance in the present ships in service; will not, therefore, send it to the Hope. 36
" 8 John Cruso, deputy clerk of the check, Yarmouth. Robt. Blackborne. Arrival and departure of ships 37
" " Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Swan Frigate, Yarmouth Roads. Navy Comrs Is taking in some good for bad beer, and will then repair to Hull, to tallow and revictual. Account of boatswain's stores required, having been at sea 9 months. 38
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. Adm. Com. Has just returned from the fleet plying between Aldborough and Dunwich, and as there are 20 frigates ordered into Harwich to repair, will set all wheels to work to give them despatch, if he can have supplies. Will leave the business of prisoners till the Commissioners come down. 39
" " " " Navy Comrs As 30 ships have been sent in with their masts, yards, and rigging much shattered, has sent particulars of their wants, and desires the stores needed, as also a surgeon for the Reserve, and recruits for his chest. Requests that a guard may be stationed at Rumford and Bow Bridge, to arrest all seamen that come that way, or many will escape. 40
" " Thos. Scott, Deptford. " Cannot obtain the cables needed for the hulk from ships in the river, and unless they are supplied, the ships and frigates will run much danger. 41
" " Admiralty Com. " To make out an order to pay the lodging, diet, and cure of a petitioner, not named, if what he says be true. 42
" " Thos. Orton, clerk of the check, Sophia, Aldborough. " Has been ordered into Harwich by the General to refit with expedition, his masts, hull, and timbers being much damaged in the last engagement. Saved 10 men belonging to the Oak, when she was fired, the rest having previously escaped. Particulars thereof. 43
" " Edw. Atkinson, Yarmouth. Robt. Blackborne. Both himself, Mr. Barnes, and the Ipswich surgeons have been full of business, there being 300 wounded men put on shore. Hopes to be better furnished and able to make a report very shortly. 44
" " Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Send a paper from Mr. Bonnel, Commissary to the Queen of Sweden, respecting 120,000 Ibs. of shot, and 47 tons of iron in the Fortune of Sweden, at Portsmouth, and desire orders to contract for it. 45
" 9 Christ. Pett and Manle Callis, Woolwich. Navy Comrs Particulars of the Phœnix. The repairs and fitting out will amount to 291l., and will take a month to execute. With short-hand notes on the finding of a new channel by the Trinity House. [see p. 97 suprà.] 46
" " Capt. John Wetwang, Newcastle. Adm. Com. Has convoyed 70 colliers into the roads, and 7 vessels with provisions from Whitby to London, and waits orders to sail northwards with others. Took a Dutch freebooter, with a ketch, and delivered them to the Prize Office at Scarborough. Wants powder and shot. The Swan and Amity have gone southward with a fleet of laden ships. 47
Aug. 9 Nich. Danzie, surveyor. [Navy Comrs.] As the ship building by Wm. Graves is planked up to the lower wale, desires a third payment, according to contract. 48
" " Wm. Crispin, Assistance, between the shore and the Whittaker. " Being ordered by the General to bring his ship to Deptford for repairs, asks orders for masts and other stores. 49
" " Capt. John Taylor, Chatham. Adm. Com. Has sent 40 tons of old arms brought by the Primrose from Ireland to the Tower. The Hound has come in to recruit her masts; asks directions as to the victualling of her crew, and 17 Dutch prisoners on board. Has sent two hoys laden with masts, yards, &c. to the fleet. 50
" " " " Navy Comrs Desires that 500l. may be imprested to Mr. Mapstone for carrying on works in hand; wants an order for purchasing timber in Kent for repair of the Paragon, Fairfax, &c. 51
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Several merchant ships have come in from the fleet for provisions, also the Hampshire to repair her masts. Desires that the stores demanded may be hastened down. A vessel has arrived from Norway with masts; has written Major King at Wapping about buying them. 52
" " Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Gravesend. Robt. Blackborne. Has been on board the Mathias in the Hope, but could not distribute the soldiers, as they had not arrived; will do so to-morrow, as they are in the river. Is despatching the ships with masts, &c. to the fleet, and going to Chatham and back to the Hope on that business, and will return to Whitehall by Saturday. 53
" 10 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Send extract from Major Bourne's letter desiring that a guard may be stationed at Bow Bridge and Rumford for attaching seamen, and request that it may be complied with. 54
" " " " Desire order to the Navy Treasurer to send 1,000l. to John Poortmans, deputy treasurer of the fleet, taking the receipt of the commander of the ship conveying the same. 55
" " Stephen Clifton, Bristol. Navy Comrs Desires order to Thos. Shewell of Bristol to recruit his medicine chest, as surgeon of the Paradox 56
" " Edm. Casson, Algiers Navy Com. Sends the names of freed captives embarked in a ship for England, some of whom will attend upon them. Does not intend to lodge any more in his house, as some of them have been troublesome. 57
" " Josh. Green, Mayor and 19 Aldermen, &c. of Lynn Regis. Adm. Com. Desire that Captains Sanson and Edw. Mould may be continued as convoys to the coal fleet, as by the decay of trade there are many poor, and scarcely any other means for their existence. If trade be lost, there will be general poverty thereabouts, and a great loss to the State of the imposition of 2s. a chaldron on coals, their port being a magazine of coal and salt for 9 counties adjacent. 58
" " Capt. Jas. Cadman, Pearl, Dover Road. " Convoyed some vessels to Calais and the coast of France, and has been plying to and fro for pirates. Has taken in the remainder of the beer, and will observe their orders received through Capt. Martin. 59
" " Jas. Beacon, Bath Navy Comrs Thanks for 20l., and sends account of disbursements in effecting his cure. Begs a further supply 60
" 11 Wa. Ettrick, Stockton. Robt. Blackborne Asks the result of applications to the Commissioners for his removal. Col. Lasscells, M.P., would speak on his behalf. Lost a good friend by the death of Mr. Dawson. 61
Aug. 11 Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Mathias, Hope. Adm. Com. Particulars of ships between Deptford and the Hope, and of stores required. Lieut.-Col. Mill has arrived with the 1,000l. and delivered it to Capt. Gethings. Will distribute the soldiers amongst the ships when they come down. 62
" " Capt. Sam. Howett, Speaker, The Swale. " Being much damaged in the late engagement, was ordered in to Chatham by the General for repair. Asks how to dispose of 10 Dutch prisoners, taken in the engagement. 63
" " E. Hayward, Chatham. Navy Comrs Has sent and is sending sails, cordage, &c. to Harwich. Wants the survey book of the Primrose 64
" " Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Have not, as supposed, been negligent in despatching provisions to the fleet; the labourers and others have worked from daylight to daylight and on the Sabbath day also, and all is now on board. Several merchant ships have come into Harwich for repairs, but the place is not adapted for it; suggest that they should be discharged. 65
" " Jno. Davies Account of masts and other stores shipped in the Good Hope flyboat at Deptford for the fleet at Harwich. 66
" 12 Capt. Jno. Taylor, Chatham. Adm. Com. The Speaker, Duchess, and Sapphire, have come in for repair, and as they have several prisoners, desires order respecting them; also dispatch of the victuals, stores, and men, as the Generals complain of the long detention of ships in the Hope for want of them. 67
" " Capt. Robt. Plumleigh, Sampson, Dover Road. " Has taken in 5,612 round shot by order of Mr. Green, and will sail to the fleet at Southwould Bay with all speed, but requires cables and anchors, being ordered to lie on the coast of Holland. 68
" " Navy Comrs. " Have no power to grant relief to Patience, wife of Dan. Mariner, wounded while in the Levant merchant at Leghorn, and know not what her husband received of Chas. Longland, the agent there, towards his cure and expenses. 69
" " Capt. Robt. Seddon, Mayflower, Gravesend. Navy Comrs Sends muster book and particulars of his proceedings while at sea, in convoying vessels to the Welsh coast, Ireland, Cornwall, the Scilly Isles, &c. 70
" " Step. Harrison Ant. Wells Receipt for 42l. for freightage of provisions to the fleet 71
" 13 Capt. Jno. Harman, Welcome, Tilbury Hope. Adm. Com. Intercedes on behalf of his company, who are again going to sea without payment of arrears; as many have wives and families, and nothing to leave, has given them tickets for 3 months' pay. 72
" " Capt. David Dove, 10th Whelp, Yarmouth Roads. " Hearing there were some Holland men-of-war upon the coast, sailed towards the north, but having lost his cable and anchor, was again forced into the roads, and brought in a Danish ship laden with deals. Since then has convoyed the light and laden fleet to and from Newcastle, and been cruising about for pirates. Wants victuals and stores. The Sparrow brought in a small freebooter to Newcastle. 73
" " Capt. Saml. Tavernor, Deal Castle. Robt. Blackborne. Could not deliver his letters to Capt. Godfrey or Capt. Leager, as they are both sailed to the fleet in Sole Bay; will keep them till their return, unless a man-of-war is going that way; there is only the Hare pink in the Downs. 74
Aug. 13 Capt. Robt. Clarke, Drake, Dover Road. Adm. Com. Has been on the coast of Holland, and convoyed some vessels from Ostend to London and Dover. Is the only man-of-war left, the others having gone to the fleet, and if he were to leave, there would be no passage for any vessel, there being so many small men-of-war in the Narrow. Will keep that station until further orders. All his beer stinks, and what is brewed at Dover will not keep sweet 10 days; the men are so dissatisfied that they forsake the service. 75
" 14 Major N. Bourne, Harwich. Adm. Com. There are 45 sail of ships and frigates sent in from the fleet, and their shattered condition requires a large supply of masts, &c. Will use all diligence to dispatch them, but will be prevented if not properly furnished. Mr. Pett is with the fleet, where there is a great want of good beer, most being defective. 76
" 15 Navy Comrs. " Have contracted with the Swedish agents for the iron, tar, &c. at Portsmouth. With account by Thos. Hopwood of cables, anchors, and other provisions shipped on the Anne hoy of Rochester, to be transported from Deptford to Harwich for the fleet. 77, 78
" " " " Send a request from the Commissioners for Prize Goods not to charge any more bills upon them for payment, as the Commissioners for Inspecting Treasuries are only entrusted therewith. Ask if they are still to give allowances to widows and orphans of men slain in the service; any obstruction in this business will occasion much trouble to the afflicted. 79
" " General Geo. Monck, Resolution, Aldborough Road. " Wants a bill to be made out to Capt. Thos. Thorowgood of the Crescent, for payment of some powder and shot, had of him for the use of the fleet. 80
" " Capt. Jonathan Hide, Hound, Chatham. " Wants a clerk of the check and a steward, as his have died. The carpenters have not yet commenced on his frigate, being engaged by Capt. Taylor on the larger ships. 81
" " Capt. Jno. Topping, Tyne Castle. Scoutmaster General Downing. A Holland man-of-war has taken two small English vessels, laden with provisions for Scotland, and they are standing to sea. 17 vessels sailed on the 12th, and 18 others on the 14th, 3 being Hamburghers. There are 2 Holland men-of-war hovering. Will give notice of the enemy at the chief harbours in Scotland. 82
" " Joseph Whiting, clerk of the check. Navy Comrs Wants medicines and necessaries for the surgeon's chest of the Violet, she having 180 men 83
" 16 Richard Popplet and Nich. Phillips, bailiffs of Ipswich. " Have 900 sick and wounded seamen under their charge, and in a few days will owe nearly 1,900l. for provisions, medicine, &c. Asked for 2,000l. when they sent their accounts, and unless provided at once, can do no more. 84
" " Geo. Lilburne, Haberdasher. Adm. Com. Petition for the place of clerk of the check in the Speaker, as through the deadness of trade and several losses, he is compelled to seek other employment. With certificate by Wm. Elwood and 4 others in his favour. 85, 85a
Aug. 16 Major N. Bourne, Harwich. Robt. Blackborne Has received some of the stores, but is waiting for masts. Is sorry that a company of soldiers is to be removed, as they are a great assistance in keeping the crews in order; desires an order for those quartered at Colchester to scour the country, which is full of stragglers, and to command them to their duty. With list of ships fitted and being fitted out. 86
" " Walter Strickland, Thos. Kelsey, and Jo. Carew, Aldborough. Adm. Com. Acquainted the General with the condition of the Channel, and he has ordered the Old Warwick and Pearl to ply there for protection of trade. The 1,100 and odd barrels of powder and shot will be far from sufficient for the fleet; desire further provision, and also some beer. 87
" " Gen. Monck, The Resolution. Capt. Wm. Godfrey of the Old Warwick. To ply between Portland and the Isle of Wight, securing trading ships, and giving account to the Council of State, Admiralty Committee, and himself. The Portsmouth victualler to supply him with victuals. 88
" " " " Capt. Jas. Cadman of the Pearl. Like orders to ply between the Start and Land's End
" 17 Jno. Carew and Thos. Kelsey, Aldborough. Adm. Com. The remainder of the ships and provisions for the fleet have arrived, but as some of the beer is defective, a further supply is needed, and also gunners' stores. The Nicodemus is going to ply in the Channel with the Pearl, in place of the Old Warwick, and the James is ordered to Ousley Bay to set her masts. 89
" " R. Creed, Resolution, [Aldborough]. Robt. Blackborne The beer lately arrived is very defective and insufficient; the General desires that 700 tuns more of water may be at once dispatched to the fleet, and he will make a beverage with such wine as he has. Hopes soon to see a good squadron ready to sail for the Texel, under the conduct of the rear-admiral, until the Resolution and James can be got ready. 90
" " Capt. Jno. Harman, Diamond. Navy Comrs Being appointed by the General to command the Diamond, wants surgeon and chest 91
" " Navy Victuallers Adm. Com. Have sent 198 tuns of beer to the fleet, with other provisions, and hope to send some more next week, but not having fit vessels, desire an order to the officers of the blockhouses at Gravesend to stop all hoys fit to carry beer. 92
" " Thos. Shewell, Bristol. " As there are 4 ships of considerable force in the Channel, lately arrived from Brest, which have already taken two vessels, and intend intercepting the trade between Bristol and Ireland, hopes such directions will be given to the men-of-war lying at Plymouth and Falmouth as will soon remove them; the Signet and Paradox, who have gone down to discover pirates, will not be able to fight them. 93
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Has been unable to see to the repair of the merchant ships, having so much to do with the frigates and others, and the waiting for masts has caused delay. Has surveyed some, and as their contracts are just out, they require much repair, and the owners decline to assist, suggests they should be discharged. 94
Aug. 17 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. In reply to Capt. Coppin's petition, it is evident the Elizabeth and Anne was lost in the service, but the State is not obliged to compensate the owners, and it is not proved that 400l. is due for freight. Capt. Coppin has already received 600l., 200l. which was due to him as captain of the Speaker, and 400l. as a gratuity for his wounds; being ignorant of his deserts and losses by the revolt in Kent, must refer the case to them. 95
" 18 Gen. Monck, The Resolution. Angel Emott, Merchants' Adventure. After receiving some prisoners, he is to sail to the Thames and report his arrival to the Council of State or Admiralty Committee, who will give further orders. Noted to repair to the RearAdmiral of the fleet, and receive prisoners from him. 96
" " Capt. Thos. Penrose, Nonsuch, Hope. Adm. Com. Will convoy the ship with ammunition for Scotland, and those with provisions for the fleet as soon as they arrive. Is turning all his defective beer overboard, and will take in that by his side in the morning. As much of the beef and pork is very bad, must have it all surveyed. 97
" " Capt. Wm. Godfrey, Warwick, Downs. " Left the fleet in Aldborough Bay, and is going westward to cruise between Portland and the Downs, by order of the General, as a guard. Cannot impress any men, as there are but few ships in the Downs, and those slenderly manned. Has not needed nor drawn the 10l. in the hands of the Lieutenant of Deal Castle. 98
" 19 John Davies Account of masts, sails, pitch, tar, &c. delivered out of the stores at Deptford, and shipped in the Primrose for Harwich for the fleet. 99
" " Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Have considered the petition of the mariners of the Sampson, and examined Mr. Longland's accounts, and advise 10l. to Jas. Gray, master's mate, 7l. to John Garrard, steward, and 5l. to Wm. Lee. 100
" " " " Send an application enclosed of Major Robt. Manley and Thos. Wilson, clerk of the check and clerk of the victuals at Tower Hill, 21 July 1653, for an increase of salary, and recommend that it be granted, as their duties are much heavier, and as Manley was recommended for an increase by the Navy Commissioners in 1649. 101, 102
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. Robt. Blackborne Thanks for news. Will take care to accommodate Parliament Joane [Eliz. Alkin], and take order for Capt. Newman's widow. The work will soon end, and all the officers are weary of it, and secretly grumble; does not study to please them, being only anxious to discharge his duty. 103
" " " " Adm. Com. Account of ships repaired and dispatched to the fleet, as also of those remaining, and the work required; desires leave of absence on its completion. Has had a difficulty in keeping down the mad and savage spirit of the seamen on shore, and had to prevail with the Governor of Landguard Fort for 40 soldiers, and Capt. Whitelock at Colchester to double his horse guard 2 miles from them, but many have gone, and cannot be found when the ships sail; hopes to accomplish the business, if the party of horse arrives. 104
" " Comr. Peter Pett, Aldborough. " Has been on board the Resolution, where all is well, but several other ships were damaged and gone into Ousley Bay. Hopes they will be repaired in time to sail with the rest of the fleet to-morrow. 105
Aug. 20 Lieut. Sam. Taver-nor, Deal Castle. Col. Rich Recommends a widow with 7 children for relief. Her husband [Thos. Trice] was a valuable pilot for the coasts of Holland and Flanders, and lost much in the Kentish rebellion, through holding with the better part. [See Aug. 22.] 106
" " Capt. Nat. Cobham, Newcastle frigate. Navy Comrs Has come into Harwich to be repaired and refitted; particulars of wants, having been ordered by the General to take in sufficient for 3 months, and then sail for Portsmouth. 107
" " Capt. David Dove, 10th Whelp, Yarmouth Roads. Adm. Com. Has been convoying colliers to and from Newcastle. Met the Constant Warwick with 3 prizes. Will want provisions and stores at the end of the month. 108
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " As the victualler promises 18 ship loads of beer for the fleet within the time allotted, and as the wine has gone up in price, has no body for making beverage, and will not give general satisfaction, thinks it should be sold, and the proceeds applied towards public affairs. Is hastening the repair and dispatch of the ships, but the masts sent for the Assurance are too small. Desires orders touching the Entrance and other merchant ships. 109
" " Comr. Peter Pett, Aldborough. " Has been on board the General. 3 or 4 vessels have arrived with cordage, sails, &c., and if the rest of the ammunition, beer, and fishes for masts timely arrive, the business will be dispatched by the middle of the week. The George is under sail with 30 ships and frigates; will use all expedition to get the rest away. Has arranged with Mrs. Bence as to quarters for the ministers, Mr. Jesse and Mr. Simson. 110
" " Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Swan, Burlington Bay. " Has been plying between Yarmouth and Newcastle, and convoying various vessels. Chased a man-of-war from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., but he escaped. Heard there were 11 Dutch East Indiamen gone towards the Sound, and 600 or. 700 of their busses between Buffin Ness and the Bar of Newcastle. If he had a better sailing ship, should be able to give some account about prizes. Is going to Hull to tallow and victual. 111
" " " " Robt. Blackborne Received his letter. Has observed the orders of the Navy Commissioners and been plying northwards, but having only 13 days' victuals, by direction of Gen. Monk is making for Hull, where he will be glad of a few more lines. 112
" " General Monk, Resolution. Masters of the Andrew, Triumph, and Rainbow, and Car-penter of the Reso-lution. To survey the damage done to the Globe by being run into by the Halfmoon; with their report, 24 Aug., that the damage amounts to 116l. 113
" " Chas Walley Robt. Blackborne The 30,000l. has been shipped on board the Nightingale, and she sailed for Dublin on the 14th instant. The Channel is infested with pickeroons which much hinder trade. 114
Aug. 20 Navy Victuallers Adm. Com. Hear from Capt. Limbery that 600 tuns of beer will suffice the fleet to Oct. 1, and that the ships in Aldborough Bay will be supplied with 200 tuns from Lynn. Enclose list of ships with 425½ tuns of beer on board; will dispatch the water with all speed. 115, 116
" " " " " Particulars of victuals remaining at Portsmouth, Plymouth, and Hull for 4,287 men for 6 months; also of what has been and has to be issued when the fleet comes into port. 117
" " John Kent and 11 other workmen, Dover. Navy Comrs Beg consideration of a petition enclosed; hope Mr. Green has given an account of their demands, and of what is due. 118
" 21 Thos. Wright, Heartsease, Chat-ham. Robt. Blackborne His ship is out of the dock, but the men having been turned over to other ships, asks a fresh supply; also an order to go down to the Hope for men and provisions. 119
" " Anth. Rivly, mari-ner. Adm. Com. Petition for employment as a master; with certificate by Capt. Joseph Cubitt of his having served in the Tulip as master for 7 months. 120, 121
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Account of ships and frigates refitted and sent to the fleet, and of those remaining in dock; particulars of beer sent to the fleet by the victuallers. Suggests that the wine in hand should be sold. 122
" 22 Navy Comrs. " Desire an order for erection of two small houses in the yard at Portsmouth, to accommodate some of the officers, whose living on the place would be beneficial to the service. They live a mile away in Portsmouth, which being a garrison town, they can only go in and out when the gates are open. 123
" " Wm. Smythson, Horsleydown, shal-lop. " Has come in from the North Foreland to revictual, and will then return. The Drake has gone through the roads into the Downs with two prizes, as also the Pearl, having spent her topmasts. 124
" " Navy Comrs. " Cannot relieve Joan, sister of Hen. Beckett, blown up in the Bonadventure, on her petition, as the Act of Parliament only provides for widows, orphans, and impotent parents. 125
" " John Treleague " Petition for assistance, having lost all his books, instruments, clothes, and money by the burning of the Oak in the last engagement against the Dutch, in which he was a midshipman. With an affidavit to the same effect. 126, 127
" " Wm. Hempson, Harwich. " Was sent down to examine the state of the fleet as to their victualling, and finds it, by the great care of the contractors, in very good condition. The remainder of the beer will be speedily supplied. 128
" " Thos. Alderne, Victualling Office. " List of ships and hoys dispatched with beer to Harwich to the fleet, and list of those discharged 129
" " Thos. Gage, minis-ter, the church-wardens, and 13 others of Deal. " Certificate in favour of Anne, widow of Thos. Trice, late of Deal, pilot. Her husband having been pressed as pilot to the General, he lost his private employment, and his widow, who has 7 children, lost all her estate in the late rebellion in Kent. 130
Aug. 22 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. On the petition of Rich. Hughes, surgeon of the Samuel Bonadventure, for remuneration for being instrumental in regaining the Phœnix from the Dutch, recommend that he be allowed 25l. for his services, and as an encouragement to others. 131
" " Thomas Hall Navy Comrs Having been employed by them in refining brimstone, desires their favour for another quantity which is to be done. 132
" 23 Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Swan, Hull Road. " Has been plying between Yarmouth and Newcastle, and chased two men-of-war of 8 and 12 guns, but they got away; has now come in to tallow and revictual. 133
" " Phineas Pett, Chat-ham. " Having taken on some seamen to rig the Fairfax, asks what they are to be paid daily; whether Sunday is to be included, and whether standing officers and their servants are to be continued on the ordinary, or entered into rigging wages. Also how he is to distribute the money impressed by Mr. Hayward, to avoid clamour. Begs that the Mayor of Rochester may be reimbursed his charges in lodging and providing for 8 or 10 Dutch prisoners. With notes of reply; 9s. a week per man allowed. 134
" " G. Crompton, Tilbury Fort. " Has stayed several vessels for the service, and sent them up the river, according to order; as the time for staying more has expired, asks how he may be further serviceable. 135
" " Rich. Mill, Plymouth Adm. Com. Wants a frigate sent to take in 150 able seamen he has impressed, either the Lily or Hopewell pink at Plymouth; the Lily has just convoyed in 2 Virginia ships. 136
" " Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Hull. " Has come in to tallow and victual, and will then return to sea. Capt. Salmon is here, bound for Hamburg, and Capt. Thorpe for London. Saw 3 men-of-war on the coast, who were much emboldened through his heavy sailing. 137
" 24 Capt. Jno. Taylor, Chatham. Navy Comrs Has surveyed the Princess Maria, Duchess, and Arms of Holland, they cannot be fitted out under a month; asks whether to proceed with the work, and transfer their crews to the Speaker, Heartsease, and Sophia, who all want men. The Paragon and Fairfax have also to be fitted. 138
" " " " Adm. Com. To like effect 139
" " " " " Recommends the gunner of the Bear for employment in the Truelove or some other ship; he was in both the late engagements, and is well known for his ability. 140
" " Rich. Hill and Robt. Turpin, Prize Office. Robt. Blackborne. Send Mr. Mercer to give particulars required respecting some shot not delivered into the Tower with the rest. 141
" " Capt. Thos. Penrose, Nonsuch. Bill of expenses in entertaining the Portuguese Ambassador and his retinue, from his shipment at the Gallions, July 28, until his arrival in the Hope, Aug. 24. Total, 67l. 13s. 142
" " Capt. Thos. Spur-ling, President. Navy Comrs Desires they will write the victualler at Plymouth to call the steward and his brother who was purser to account for their deficiencies in the victuals and stores, as although much of the beer and victuals were bad, there has been some embezzlement. The steward pretends the rats have eaten his books. 143
" " Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Have considered the petition and accounts of the Watermen's company, and as they have exceeded all former precedents in their disbursements for pressing 1,000 men, and been allowed 72l. 5s. 4d., cannot recommend further allowance. 144
Aug. 24 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Have ordered the refitting of the Tulip and considered as to the disposal of the crew of 54 persons, but as the captain has returned 21 as officers, 4 boys, 9 grometts, and 14 sick and wounded, thought good to send his account. 145
" " Adm. Com. Navy Comrs Order to send down medicaments to-morrow by the Convertine to the General on board the Resolution. With note for Mr. Cooke, apothecary of Tower Street, to provide the drugs. 146
" 25 Capt. Saml. Howitt, Speaker, Chatham. Adm. Com. Has been waiting for the victuals, ammunition, and stores, and as soon as they arrive, will sail to the Hope. Having left 60 of his men with the fleet, desires order to take the same number from the ships at Chatham. 147
" " Giles Heather, Prin-cess Maria, Chat-ham. Navy Comrs Being appointed clerk of the check in the Princess Maria in place of Edm. Wormell, sends the muster book. 148
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Thanks for their care in procuring money of the collectors at Ipswich; will prosecute it, as money will be much wanted in 4 days. The frigates will be ready to sail to-morrow, except a few named; hopes by next week the business will be ended. Will then return to London. 149
" " Ant. Skinner, Plymouth. Thos. Smith Asks payment of 34l. for freight of the Mary hoy, employed to carry provisions to the fleet; though failing to catch Gen. Blake, she delivered the goods at Plymouth. Would not have importuned, but the seamen's wives are daily at his door for their husbands' wages, they being since taken and the hoy gone. 150
" 26 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Send letter from Capt. Taylor, master shipwright at Chatham, and as it is of concernment, desire they will give order. 151
" " Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Swan, Hull Road. " Has had his ship tallowed, is taking in guns and provisions, and will be ready to sail on Monday. Capt. Salmon has sailed to Hamburg with his convoy, and Capt. Thorpe is waiting for a convoy for London. 152
" " Capt. Hen. Hatsell, Gravesend. " Has been on board the Convertine in the Hope, and as she has no captain, nor much of her provisions, has sent messengers for them, or she will not be ready to sail for several days. Has ordered the captain of the Nicodemus to convoy the two hoys with ammunition which have come down for the fleet. Capt. Wm. Swyer of the Samuel desires orders as to the disposal of of 8 Dutch captains and 42 other officers he has on board as prisoners. 153
" 27 Valentine Tatnell, Rosebush, Dept-ford. " Recommends Theop. Smithes for the carpenter's place on board the Rosebush, the one appointed not having appeared. 154
" " Jno. Falkener, Tower Robt. Blackborne. Has laden a vessel of 60 tons, and it will fall down the river with this night's tide 155
" " Capt. Jas. Cadman, Pearl, Portland Road. Adm. Com. Has been plying westward, and having lost his masts, was forced to put into Dover Road. Desires orders at Plymouth. 156
Aug. 27 Phineas Pett, Chat-ham. Navy Comrs Is requested by Mr. Hill, employed by them to prevent embezzlements, to acquaint them with miscarriages there. Geo. Aldridge, steward of the Heartsease, has disposed of 9 tuns of beer, as also some pork and peas, and it is believed the clerk of the check to that ship is confederate. There are several ships now ready to sail but want men, and others will be ready in a month. 157
" " Com. Peter Pett, Aldborough. Adm. Com. Thanks for the favourable acceptance by them and the Council of State of his services in fitting out ships; particulars of the state of others named. Mr. Jesse and Mr. Simson arrived on board the General in time to officiate in the general Thanksgiving kept on Tuesday, and then went to Yarmouth. Is coming to London next week, and will view 3 or 4 bargains of timber fit for the Navy on his way home. 158
" 28 Ant. Joyne, Convertine, Tilbury Hope. Navy Comrs Has received the wood and will sail, but has no ships to convoy, as all are gone to the fleet 159
" " Robt. Kirby, Sophia, Tilbury Hope. Adm. Com. Left Chatham on Saturday, but has not received victuals or stores, and wants 90 men, having left 50 with the fleet. 160
" " " " Navy Comrs To the same effect 161
" " Capt. Saml. Howitt, Speaker. " Left 60 men with the fleet, and was ordered by the General to get a fresh supply in the Thames; as he will soon be ready to return, desires order to take some out of the Princess Mary, Hound, and Crow; also an order to Mr. Sewell to supply him with 40 old muskets, taken out of the Scotch boats. 162
" 29 Navy Comrs. Adm. Com. Desire their decision as to increasing the staff and pay in the Navy office, as the business has so multiplied they will otherwise not be able to get through it. Have examined the complaints against Peter Beal, clerk of the survey at Portsmouth, as to aiding in the embezzlement of stores, and think him guilty of gross neglect. 163
" " Comr. Peter Pett, Aldborough. " Has just left the General under sail, with 13 or 14 ships. A prize has come in with oil, and a ketch with a packet from Rear-Admiral Lawson. The fleet has had some very sèvere weather; the Victory and Mathias are ordered into Ousley Bay for repairs with 10 or 12 prizes; ships run very great hazard on that shore at this time of the year. 164
" " Valentine Tatnell, Rosebush. " Has been waiting 6 days for his provisions to come down, and for lack thereof the company cannot do anything. Wants Theop. Smithes for his carpenter, as no one has yet arrived. 165
" 30 Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Mr. Wood, mastmaker, much complains of the scarcity of masts in the river, as also of the scarcity of stores at Deptford. The time draws on for the arrival of the New England ships, the loss of which would be a public one, and as there are several of the enemy's men-of-war lying at the mouth of the Channel, hopes they will consider and provide accordingly. 166
" " John Webster, Exeter Merchant, Yarmouth Roads. Navy Comrs On 29th July engaged with the Dutch fleet until night, both fleets keeping together until next day, when they separated through the wind, but engaged again on the Sunday; having neither masts, sails, nor a rope left, being all shot by the board, and lying a perfect wreck in the sea, thought it best to stand for our own coast, and is now waiting orders. 167
Aug. 30. Edw. Mundy, Woodbridge. Navy Comrs Sends agreements for purchase of 400 loads of timber. Has 150 or 200 loads at the waterside and will send it into the stores as fast as he can. Has drawn a bill upon them for 500l., payable to Hen. Cosins, grocer, at Ipswich, and desires payment. 168
" " Jonathan Hide, Hound, Chatham. Adm. Com. Desires a lieutenant's commission for Barth. Peartree, master's mate, as he is destitute of one, as also a supply of men and guns. 169
" " Capt. Thos. Wilkes, Swan, Hull. " Has taken in the remainder of his provisions, and is going to sea with 16 laden ships, some for the fleet and the rest for London; will endeavour with Capt. Thorpe to see them safe to Yarmouth Roads and Sole Bay. 170
" 31 Navy Comrs. " Have considered the reference on the petition of Elizabeth Colson, and think the 40l. already given sufficient, being as much as to any others in like cases. 171
" " Major N. Bourne, Harwich. " Has been to General Monk and conferred with him on several affairs, and is now hastening the dispatch of the remnant of the fleet. The weather is boisterous. Particulars of the state and wants of ships named. Capt. Jefferson has gone to London without leave, and left his ship like a wreck, notwithstanding his promise to the General. 172
" " Phineas Pett, Chatham Dock. Robt. Blackborne. Has brought the Princess Maria into dock; the works on other ships have been somewhat hindered by delay in sending nails and other provisions. The Crow has arrived, but her men and those of the Crowned Lion should be discharged, as not ⅓ ever appear to do service in the harbour. 173
" " Capt. Thos. Spurling, Little President. C.O.S. or Adm. Com. Desires not to have the name of command of a squadron, unless he can have the substance, not the shadow. Wants the Lily and the Pink, as his present weak condition makes him weary of the employment; requests his state may be made known to the Generals. 174
Aug. ? Navy Comrs. [Adm. Com.] Chris. Pett and Jonas Shish report that Isaac Ewell, undertaking to make a dock at Woolwich, should have 561l. for it. Beg their allowance. 175
Account of the number of tuns of beer required for 47 ships named to complete their proportion to 1 Oct. 1653. Total 1,003 tuns, of which 230 can be had at Ipswich for such of the ships as are at Harwich. 176
" Robert Rose [Adm. Com.] Petition for a purser's place in the Victory or some other ship, having served for several years in the George and Reformation, and as steward in the Victory; was badly wounded in the last engagement. With certificates of Capt. Thos. Adames of the George, Capt. Anth. Earning of the Reformation, Lawrence Wise, preacher to the navy at Chatham, and Phin. Pett, Chatham, and Nath. Browne and Jno. Hemeng of the Victory, in his favour. 177–181
" John Partrick, apothecary. " Account of medicaments supplied to seamen belonging to ships named, between April and Aug. 1653, amounting to 12l. 14s. 10d. 182
" Capt. Rob. Thorpe Ant. Wells Requests for payments of bills prefixed on behalf of the Red Hart pink, 6–16th August. With receipts thereof. [13 papers.] 183–195
" Capt. Thos. Wilkes " Like requests and bills for the Swan frigate, Aug. 26 and 27 196, 197
Aug. Moses Harding Adm. Com. Petition to be gunner on the Princess Maria. Has served in Ireland, and behaved well in several engagements with the Hollanders. With certificate by Capt. Peter Norham and 4 others, 7 Aug. 1653. 198, 199
" Maurice Thompson and 7 others, Capt. John Bourne and 19 others. Certificates on behalf of Dan. Baker, who has served as boatswain and master's mate, and was severely wounded in the fight off Portland and in the late engagement of 29 July 1653. 200, 201