Volume 94: February 1655

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1655. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1881.

This premium content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'Volume 94: February 1655', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1655, (London, 1881) pp. 30-61. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1655/pp30-61 [accessed 24 April 2024]

February 1655

Feb. 1. Council. Day's Proceedings.
Council proceeded in the debate on the order for the assessment, and passed the sum to be inserted, and the distribution thereof, and several parts of the order. [I. 75, p. 661.]
Feb. 1. 53. Order by the Treasury Commissioners that—as by Order of Parliament of 1 Jan. 1652–3, 100,000l. was to be paid from the moneys arising by sale of and compositions for delinquents' estates to the Treasurers-at-war, on which sundry sums were charged, and as all moneys are now to be paid out of the Exchequer,—the treasurers authorized to receive the proceeds of the said estates pay into the Exchequer, on Feb. 12,718l. 14s. 8½d. now in their hands, or any further sum then in hand, and pay in their further receipts weekly. [¾ page.]
Feb. 1.
London.		 Levant Company to Sir Thos. Bendish. Thos. Davies earnestly solicits our letters to you on behalf of his son George, purser of the Ursula Bonadventure when it was forced into the Venetian service, and 18 months ago taken by the Grand Seignior's galleys near the castles. His friends have but lately heard this, and that he is with the galleys at Smyrna. We beg you to take courses with the Captain Basha, Vizier, or otherwise, for his release. [Levant Papers, Vol. 4, p. 235.]
Feb. 2. 54. Petition of the baptized believers, in and about Chard, to the Protector and Council. We have separated from the public worship of this nation for conscience' sake, but have no place of meeting, and it is for you to grant us one. We beg leave (none of us having a fit house) to meet in the unoccupied shire hall of Chard, and we will pray for your salvation by Jesus Christ, and for understanding hearts, to go in and out before this great people. 19 signatures. [1 page.]
Feb. 2. Order thereon in Council for the following letter. [I. 75, p. 661.]
Feb. 2.
Whitehall.		 Council to the Mayor and Burgesses of the Corporation of Chard, co. Somerset. It has been represented to us by a congregation of baptized persons about Chard, that they have no convenient place to meet in for worship, wherefore they have asked leave to use the now vacant shire hall. We signify to you our approbation of the same, and desire you to permit them to worship in the hall, when it is not wanted for the public service. [I. 75, p. 663.]
Feb. 2. 55. Petition of John Pordage, minister of Bradfield, co. Berks, to the Protector. Many of the county commissioners for ejecting scandalous ministers being my enemies, I have been ejected by malice and without proof; I appeal to your justice for a commission to determine my case, having a wife and many children. With reference to Council, 29 Jan. 1654–5. [1 page.]
Feb. 2. Note of the reading of the petition in Council. [I. 75, p. 662.]
Feb. 2. Council. Day's Proceedings.
5. Order on a report on the petition of Hen. Whalley, JudgeAdvocate, that he be allowed 200l. for 2½ years' salary as an Admiralty Judge in Scotland, to be paid from moneys in the hands of Commissioner-General Whalley, for Dutch prisoners. [I. 75, pp. 662–3.]
Feb. 2.
Whitehall.		 Council to Gervase Buck, Esq., at Worcester. We have received your letter and enclosures concerning one calling himself Thompson, and as he is probably employed by the enemy, he should be further examined. We therefore desire you to deliver him to the commander of the troops in Worcester, who is to send him to London.
We return you our thanks for your care in the matter, and desire you to express them to the Bailiff of Kidderminster and the others who gave the first information. [I. 75, p. 662.]
Feb. 5. 56. Petition of the knights, gentlemen, and other inhabitants of 20 villages and townships adjoining Needwood Forest, co. Stafford, to the Protector and Council. The forest being one of those to be sold for satisfaction of the soldiers, they applied to the late Parliament, but it was dissolved before anything was done.
Former Kings took 10 parks from the chase, and the rest is but 5,600 acres, not worth 5s. an acre. Its sale would tend to its enclosing and disposal of the woods and herbage, to which some of them have rights dating before the Duchy of Lancaster was annexed to the Crown; others have rights of estover and pasture, and should be compensated therefor. Beg that the forest may not be sold, or if it be, that those whose rights are questioned may maintain them by law, and those whose rights are allowed may have an ascertained recompense, and not be left to commissioners, especially as the county paid 8,000l. to the soldiers on disbanding. With reference thereon to Council. [1 page. With 9 sheets of signatures in 3 or 4 columns.]
Feb. 5. Reference thereon by Council to Wolsley, Fiennes, Strickland, and Montague, to report. [I. 75, p. 663.]
[Feb. 5.] 57. Representation of the justices of peace for co. Stafford to the Protector. The Grand Jury, at the last sessions, shewed us the misery that would befall thousands of the poor, if the forest were sold, and the burden that must fall on the adjacent parishes, and requested us to try to prevent it. We therefore beseech you to weigh the petition sent. [1 page, 7 signatures.] Annexing,
57. i. Reasons against the enclosing of Needwood Forest, e.g.
1. Ancient charters and rights, some 400 years old.
2. The unfitness of paying the whole army from a few poor townships, while great and rich ones pay nothing.
3. It is as just to sell all the commons that were the King and Queen's as this chase.
4. Difficulty of mending the highways, from the clayey soil.
5. Rights of wives, infants, lunatics, and persons beyond sea.
6. The poverty of the county, exhausted by so many garrisons. [1 page.]
57. ii. Request by the Grand Jury to the justices of peace for their assistance in the above cause. Presented at the sessions after Michaelmas, 1654. [1 page, 21 signatures, Copy.]
Feb. 5. 58. Petition of Lieut. Rich. Palmer to the Protector and Council. I commanded a foot company under Col. Monk in Ireland, and lost both my eyes, so that I cannot serve; therefore the Irish Committee settled on me 100l. a year from Guildhall, which is 75l. in arrears. Parliament made this into 40s. a week, to be paid from Crown revenue. This being stopped, your Highness gave me an order for regular payment and arrears. Consider my wife and four small children, and order me the 84l. due, the 40s. weekly, and the 75l. due from Goldsmiths' Hall. [1 page.]
Feb. 5. Order in Council for payment of the 40s. and the 84l. arrears by the Committee for maimed soldiers. [I. 75, p. 665.]
Feb. 5. Council. Day's Proceedings.
2. No one except Henry Hills, printer to his Highness, and those in his employ, are on their peril to print or reprint any part of his Highness' speech to Parliament on their dissolution, made in the Painted Chamber, Jan. 22 1654–5.
5. The petition of Thos. Smart, merchant of Dantzic, and the letters of recommendation from that city, referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to report.
6. Order—on report from the Admiralty Judges concerning goods claimed by Jacob Carolus alias Palasche, taken in the Prophet Elias of Hamburg, that they think the goods ought in justice to be restored,—that the matter be brought before the Admiralty Judges, to give sentence.
7. The petition of the sons and executors of the late Sir Peter Richaut, and the Spanish Ambassador's answer to his Highness' letter in their behalf, referred to Fiennes, Montague, Mulgrave, Wolsley, and Lisle, to speak with the Admiralty Judges, Dr. Walker, and such other civilians as they think meet, concerning the letters of reprisal prayed, and to report. [I. 75, pp. 663–4.]
Feb. 5. 59. Geo. Williamson to his brother Joseph, Queen's College, Oxford. I hope you are near the doctor if you have taken a surfeit. I send you a piece to pay him, and another for yourself. My master continues sheriff, which is no loss to me; what I can do shall be at your service. I could not be at Cockermouth to-day, being called to Naworth with my master. My mother is well. I shall be glad to see you and Mr. Beeby in the country this summer. [1 page.]
Feb. 6. Council. Day's Proceedings.
The Committee of Council report amendments to the Order and Declaration of his Highness for an assessment of 60,000l. by the month, for six months, towards the maintenance of the army and navy, which were read, altered, and passed. [I. 75, p. 665.]
Feb. 7. Order and declaration of the Protector and Council for an assessment of 60,000l. a month for 6 months, towards the maintenance of the army and navy.
The 27th Article of the instrument of Government orders a constant yearly revenue to maintain 10,000 horse and dragoons, and 20,000 foot in England, Scotland, and Ireland, and ships to guard the sea, besides 200,000l. a year for administration of justice and other expenses, to be raised by means to be agreed on by the Protector and Council, and not taken away or diminished, but by the Protector and Parliament. It was thereon agreed in Council that the sum should be raised by customs and subsidies, by excise and new impost, and by a tax of 80,000l. a month, to be raised in England, Scotland, and Ireland, after 25 December 1654, the English proportion to be 60,000l., to be raised in the same way as in the Act for raising 120,000l. in 6 months from December 1653 to June 1654, in rates upon counties and towns, as specified; but if the excise or other public revenue increased in value, then the said taxes were to be lessened.
In pursuance of which declaration, and to avoid the evils of free quarter, it is ordered that the 60,000l. a month shall be raised for 6 months, from December 1654 to June 1655, the former Commissioners and those since added to act therein, and levy the said tax, meeting therefor before 20 February; the first half to be paid in before 20 March, and the last half before 20 May. Any obstructions arising from the mode of collecting to be removed, the moneys to be paid in, not to the Treasurers-at-war, as named in the said Act, but to John Blackwell, jun., and Rich. Deane, who are to be Receivers-general for this assessment. [I. 76a, p.p.14–20. I. 75, p. 668.]
[Feb. 7.] Printed copy of the above. [Collection of Acts, vol. 2. No. 82, Record Office Library, 498 F.]
Feb. 7. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order on a letter from the Admiralty Commissioners of 13 January 1654–5, noting the pressing want of 100,000l. for the fleet, to advise the Protector to issue a warrant for its payment, as money imprested on account.
2. Council to meet every morning at 10 and sit till 12.
3. 60. Order—on report from the Admiralty Commissioners of the names of 40 vessels, bearing altogether 4,145 men, fit for next summer's guard (a list of which, with the number of men and guns, is given),—that they be approved, and that the Admiralty Commissioners give effectual order for their fitting. Approved 12 February.
Feb. 7. 4. 61. If the said Commissioners see fit to set aside any of the above, they may order other vessels to be fitted in their stead, if the number of men in the list be not exceeded. Approved 12 February.
8. Order on petition of Chris. Newstead, settled by the Committee for Plundered Ministers as preacher at Maidenhead Chapel, co. Berks,—who had an augmentation of 50l. granted by the Committee for maintenance of Ministers, which was refused confirmation by the Committee for Approbation of Public Preachers, because he had formerly been minister of Stisted, co. Essex, and was sequestered therefrom by the Earl of Manchester in 1644,— praying that the augmentation may be continued, and he put in a capacity to enjoy preferment; that M.M. Nye, Lockyer, and Sterry enquire concerning his submission to the present Government, and his fitness to preach, and report.
10. Ratification by the Protector of articles of agreement made by Gen. Monk with noblemen of Scotland, 24 August 1654 to 10 January 1654–5.
11. The letter from Lieut.-Gen. John Midleton to Gen. Monk, of December 25, 1654, to be considered next Monday. [I. 75, pp. 666669.]
Feb. 8. 62. Petition of Isaac Preston and other merchants of Great Yarmouth to the Protector. In October 1652, they freighted the Abraham of Dover for Sherrant in France, to lade wines for Leith, Scotland; but she was seized by the Duke of Vendosme, and detained till the season for small wines was over in Scotland, and they were obliged to submit them to a seizure in the port of London, where, though the appraisers only valued them at 7l. a tun, the Customs' Commissioners charged them 9l., so that petitioners owe the State 810l., and yet have been unable to sell the wines, the market being so bad. Beg abatement of the 810l. With order thereon that the Customs' Commissioners certify on the case. Holograph, signed, 29 November 1654. [1 sheet.] Annexing,
62. i. Report thereon by the said Commissioners that Theo. Colcock, one of their deputies, seized the wines, value 1,620l., ½ of which was to be received by the Commissioners of Customs for the navy, and ½ to go to Colcock the discoverer, and that the petitioners became bound in 1,600 l. for payment of the 810l., the first half.—28 November 1654. With reference thereon to Council 30 November 1654. [1 page. Endorsed on petition.]
62. ii. Affidavit of Sam. Cooper and Step. Jackson to the truth of the petition; also that the Commissioners of Customs refused to take part payment in kind at the price they had set on the wines, some of which have been sold at Lynn, Hull, and Yarmouth, at from 3l. 13s. 4d. to 7l. a tun, and many remain unsold, so that the proprietors will lose many hundreds. 28 November 1654. [1 page.]
Feb. 8. Reference of the above petition and papers to the Admiralty Commissioners. [I. 75, p. 670.]
Feb. 8. 63. Petition of the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London to the Protector. In 20 James, the King granted to the City of London and Borough of Southwark for their poor, 4,000 chaldron of Newcastle sea-coal, free of the duty of 1s. a chaldron, which has been allowed by all treasury officers hitherto, but is refused by the Revenue Commissioners, for want of power to issue warrants to the farmers of Customs. Beg an order to the farmers to pay 200l. due this year, and the like allowance in future. With reference 15 January 1654–5 to Council. [1 page.]
Feb. 8. 64. Reference thereon by Council to Mulgrave, Skippon, Strickland, and Desborow, to confer with the Commissioners of the Great Seal and the counsel learned, and report. [¾ page. Also I. 75. p. 670.] Annexing,
64. i. Order in the said Committee that Serjeant Glynn and the Attorney and Solicitor General attend them thereon. 27 February 1654–55. [2/3 page.]
Feb. 8. 65. Petition of the owners of the Peregrine to the Protector and Council, for satisfaction for the loss of their ship, which was taken 18 months since by the Dutch in Leghorn Road, after an honorable fight, in which the captain and above 20 of his men were slain, and 40 wounded. They have had a reference to the Navy Commissioners, a report, and an order for payment, but cannot obtain it. 11 signatures. [1 page. Also I. 92, No. 85.]
Feb. 8. 66. Reference thereon by Council to the Admiralty Commissioners. [½ page. I. 75, p. 671.] Annexing,
66. i. Reference endorsed on the petition by the Admiralty Commissioners to the Navy Commissioners, to certify whether the ship was honourably lost, and what should be done. —15 Feb. 1654–5. [¼ page.]
66. ii. Report of the Navy Commissioners that it was honourably lost, and that the owners should be paid according to the declaration of Parliament.—16 Feb. 1654–5. [¾ page.]
Feb. 8. Council. Day's Proceedings.
2. The Commissioners of the Great Seal to issue writs for the proclamation of the Order and Declaration of his Highness and Council for an assessment of 60,000l. a month for six months, for maintenance of the army and navy.
4. Order on report on petition of Wm. Johnson, of Newcastle, [see 30 Nov. 1654] that he be allowed to export 22 iron guns. Annexing,
67. i. Report alluded to of the Admiralty Commissioners, that they have resolved to buy the three brass guns for the State, but that the iron ones may be transported.—25 Jan. 1654–5. [⅓ page.]
Feb. 8. 6. No one is on any pretence to print or reprint a book called, "The sizes and lengths of riggings, &c., with proportions of boatswains and gunners' sea stores, for all the State's ships and frigates, &c.," except Peter Cole, of London, for the use of the author, Ed. Hayward, clerk of the Survey at Chatham, and neither Cole nor Hayward are to dispose of copies except to his Highness and members of Council, and the Admiralty and Navy officers, without special licence from the Admiralty Commissioners. Approved 12 Feb.
8. Order on desire of Maj.-Gen. Skippon, that the report prepared by the Committee on Nath. Hawes and Geo. Payne's petition, concerning their losses by the Spaniard, be considered this day fortnight.
9. The petition of Anne, wife of Wm. Cony, referred to Council May 17, 1654, read, but no order made.
10. The petition of John Ridge, merchant, concerning a small vessel laden with wines and vinegar, constrained into Chester water in her way to Dublin, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report. [I. 75. pp. 670–671.]
Feb. 9. 68. Petition of Martin Noel, merchant, to Council. By the Ordinance for uniting Scotland with England, all goods are to pass as freely between the 2 countries as between any places in England.
The ancient English manufacture of salt, which employs many thousands of poor, will be thereby destroyed, because it is made much cheaper in Scotland, as the people there are paid in meal and other provisions, instead of in wages. I have been forced to buy of the State many salt works at Shields; I have laid out thousands upon them. I employ 1,000 workmen, who will be ruined unless you reconsider that clause in the Ordinance, so that the favour intended to the Scotch may not be destructive to the English in so ancient a manufacture.
I beg consideration when the reference on behalf of the salt makers of North and South Shields is examined, and redress. [1 page.]
Feb. 9. Order thereon that the petition of the salt makers of North and South Shields, presented by Major Tolhurst, and that of Martin Noel be considered on Wednesday. [I. 75, p. 676.]
Feb. 9. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Wm. Hunt, having been presented to the rectory of Kibworth Beauchamp, co. Leicester, and held it many years, till displaced on proceedings before the Council of State, and John Yaxley put in his place, and confirmed therein by his Highness and Council, but Hunt having recovered his place by law, and made an agreement with Yaxley, that agreement is confirmed, viz., that Yaxley hold the rectory for Hunt's life, restoring Hunt his goods left there, or compensating him for what are disposed of, and paying him 120l. for one year, and then 80l. a year for life, and all execution on the judgment to be stayed unless the money fail to be paid. Yaxley is to have the rectory, tithes, and other profits, not suffering the rectory to be lapsed, or the next presentation lost by non-residency. Approved 12 Feb.
2. Mulgrave, Sydenham, Pickering, Rous, Fiennes, and Wolsley to consider how the statutes relating to weights and measures, to the assize of bread and beer, and other assizeable things, and also to common beggars, may effectually be put in execution, consult with the counsel learned and others, and report.
5. Gen. Desborow having given warrants to the Treasurers-at-war to pay out of 17,000l. sent to Portsmouth, being part of the 30,000l. ordered for special service, 5l. apiece to the officers and soldiers going on shipboard, for their horses, and having also given warrants for the muster of the said forces, all the payments made by his warrants are approved, and the Army Committee are to order them to be passed in the account of the Treasurers-at-war.
6. The supernumeraries added to Sir Wm. Constable's regiment of foot, to increase it from 700 to 1000, to be continued, and the Army Committee to issue warrants to the Treasurers-at-war for their payment. Approved 12 Feb.
7. Mulgrave, Fiennes, Strickland, and Wolsley to consider the settling of the government of Jersey, consult with the counsel learned and others, and report.
8. The same Commissioners to consider how the place of bailiff for Guernsey is executed, and how it may best be settled, and to report.
12. Order—on information that a quantity of English wools are driven on shore by wreck in Sussex, and thus belong of right to the Warden of the Cinque Ports, and that the Customs' officers of Rye have seized them, and exhibited in the Exchequer Court information against the Warden's interest,—that the Customs' Commissioners learn the true state of the matter, and report. [I. 75, pp. 672-76.]
Feb. 9.
Whitehall.		 President Lawrence to Art. Onslow, Hen. Weston, — Duncombe, Capt. Rawlins, and other justices of peace for Surrey, and to the mayor of Guildford. Edw. Stanley, deputy of Fras. Vincent, who, on 10 March 1652–3, was appointed chief worker for saltpetre, in Kent, Surrey, Sussex, and Hants, on the Act of 9 Feb. 1652–3, complains of obstruction at Guildford, on pretext of non-renewal of his commission. [See 28 Dec. 1654.] On perusing the Act, Council find that the commission holds good during the time limited by the Act, and therefore we desire you to forbear further interruption. Signed 14 Feb. [I. 75, pp. 675, 680.]
Feb. 10. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. The Army Committee to send into the several counties a printed copy of his Highness' Order and Declaration for an assessment of 60,000l. per month for 6 months, and to commend it specially to the care of such persons in each county as they think fit. [I. 75, p. 676.]
Feb. 10.
Whitehall.		 3. President Lawrence to the Committees of the several counties of this nation. His Highness and Council have passed an Order and Declaration for an assessment of 60,000l. a month, for 6 months, from Dec. 25 1654, a copy whereof is enclosed. You are desired to put the same in speedy execution, that the proportion in your county may be assessed, the collection prosecuted, and the money paid according to the specified time, so that the forces of this Commonwealth may be duly paid. [I. 75, p. 676.]
Feb. 10. 69. Certificate by Wm. Elsey, clerk to the Committee for Surrey, that the account of Serjeant-Major Nathan King, shewing a balance of 431l. 8s. due to him for arrears of service, was entered in the county register book, 18 June 1653. [2/3 page.]
Feb. 12. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. John Blackwell and Rich. Deane, War Treasurers, to remove all the public treasure remaining in their hands to the Tower.
2. Sir John Wollaston, Ald. Andrews, Francis Allen, and Alderman Dethick, former War Treasurers, to remove to the Tower all the treasure remaining in their hands. The Lieutenant of the Tower to appoint a convenient room for its safe keeping.
3. Montague and Sydenham to learn what public treasure remains in the hands of the present or former treasurers, and report.
4. The Committee that brought in the Order for 6 months' assessment for England to settle an assessment for Scotland, and bring in an Order and Declaration.
5. Order on Sam. Highland's information concerning words spoken against his Highness by Geo. Hull, that Highland, being a justice of peace for Surrey, take Order to proceed against Hull according to law.
6. Mulgrave, Desborow, Wolsley, Montague, and Jones, to send for the Admiralty Judges and Dr. Walker, on some matters concerning prize goods, whereof information was given to-day.
7. Mulgrave, Jones, and Wolsley, to speak with counsel concerning setting a price on wines, and report.
8. Order—on reading an Order of Parliament of June 10, 1644, whereby a Committee was to bring in an Ordinance for disposing some lands of Lord Poulett (among other uses referring to the town of Lyme), for a reward to the military who defended that town; and of another Order of 2 May 1646; and on information that the charge of maintaining the soldiers maimed in that siege is taken off the country,—that a letter be written to Lyme, that the maimed soldiers may have reward and maintenance allowed out of the land designed for that purpose by Parliament.
9. Approval by the Protector of 9 Orders, 25 Jan.–9 Feb. last.
10. An addition to be made to the Order of 9 Feb. about Gen. Desborow's authorizing a fortnight's pay to 40 soldiers, and a week's pay to 42 soldiers of Major Heane's regiment, other regiments of the said forces not being full, and thus these within the number of the establishment. [I. 75 pp. 677-9].
Feb. 12.
Whitehall.		 Pres. Lawrence to the mayor of the corporation of Lyme, to be communicated to the feoffees in trust for the land settled by Order of Parliament on the corporation. Council hears that the charge of maintaining those maimed in the siege is taken off from the country by order of the justices of the county. They also find that Parliament, out of respect to the courage of the defenders, settled land on that town out of Lord Poulett's estate, as a recompense for their loss and a reward. They therefore desire you to see that the maimed soldiers receive proper reward and maintenance, to be paid quarterly, out of the above estate; you are to use your best endeavour to see this executed. [I. 75, pp 685-6.]
Feb. 13.
Ordnance Office.		 70. Ordnance officers to Gen. Jno. Desborow. According to a warrant of the Lord Protector enclosed, we have sent to the ship chandlers to send in to the stores in the Tower all the powder they have in private houses and warehouses, but some pretend that several merchant ships at Gravesend are waiting for stores of gunpowder left in their custody. Are we to deliver it to the owners of the ships upon demand, or detain it until further order ? In executing this and other orders from his Highness, we meet with many emergent occasions for money, so cannot effectually proceed unless the [Navy] Treasurer be ordered to pay off our debentures, not exceeding 10l. [1 page.] Enclosing,
70. i. Order by the Protector to the Ordnance officers, to bring into the Tower all powder in any stores within the City of London and the liberties thereof, that lies dangerously, or may be made use of by disaffected persons, to be secured to the use of the owners, and re-delivered to them as they need to dispose of it, 12 Feb. 1654–5. With note by Geo. Payler, 14 Feb., asking if there has been any alteration in his Highness's intentions, and if so, that this and former orders may be superseded by another in writing to the Ordnance officers. [Copy, 1 page.]
Feb. 14. Council. Day's Proceedings.
2. Order—on certification from the Commissioners for approbation of public preachers that Jos. Teate is qualified to preach, according to the Ordinance for encouragement of adventurers for land in Ireland,—that he have 50l. for his journey to Ireland from Council's contingencies. Approved 23 Feb.
4. The committee on the monthly assessment to consider the settling of the Excise, and bring in an order and declaration therefor. They are to meet to-morrow afternoon, Scobell to attend, and Desborow to take care thereof.
6. An Ordinance for reviving the Court of the Duchy of Lancaster, passed June 9, 1654, to be printed and published. [I. 75, pp. 679680.]
Feb. 14.
Westminster.		 71. Major Hercules Langrish to Wm. Jessop, clerk of the Council. Though I do not know you, yet I beg you to read the enclosed at your leisure, though it is very long, on account of the greatness and multitude of my losses and sufferings, which are only half stated, and to give me your opinion thereon.
P.S.—When I have had your opinion upon it, I will have it copied for Mr. Fiennes and other members of Council, as many have promised to assist me, and some are obliged in conscience to do their best. [French, 1 page.] Enclosing,
71. i. Major H. Langrish to the Protector. Long and minute detail of services and sufferings from 1619, especially service in Jan. 1642, to Cols. Hampden and Pym and other members of Parliament. Had my advice been followed, the late King had then been prevented leaving the City, for he was not much beloved, and most of the Parliament members were so highly esteemed that he could not have raised forces against them. I should also have prevented the Queen's going to Holland, and without the arms procured by her jewels and plate, there would not have been such formidable armies and loss of Christians' estates and blood.
Being carrier to the Queen, I lost my office when she left. I have not received 100l. from the Revenue office since, though others who fought for Parliament have received much; I have also, at the Queen's instigation, been deprived of my late wife's estate in France, to the ruin of myself and 6 children. My eldest son, Capt. Hercules, is in service in Ireland, and Cornet Lucullus died lately in the service. Col. Nat. Fiennes knows that Princes Rupert and Maurice often begged me to serve the late King.
I was at the reduction of Sherborne and other places in Wiltshire, served under Sir Wm. Waller in the West, and in the service spent and borrowed 1,609l. of my pay, and suffered much hardship and danger. Had others behaved as well as my regiment at Round-downs, Parliament had not lost the day. Yet Clem. Walker and Wm. Prynne brought articles against me in Dec. 1643, out of malice, and I could not get a hearing. Particulars of the loss of Bristol, which were detailed by John Ash in a printed paper of 15 Dec. 1643, being through the weakness of the garrison and treachery of the inhabitants.
I disbursed large sums on entreaty of the deputy lieutenants of co. Somerset, but have not been repaid. Col. Alex. Popham owes me 198l. 16s. 3d.; his soldiers seized my goods and sold them at Bristol, and on my demanding them, he attempted to murder me through a Capt. Smith, but was prevented by bystanders.
My disbursements and arrears are 5,000l., and I have only received 300l. I have been 54 weeks in the Gatehouse, Westminster, for debt, and Phil. Nurse detains for Rich. Pym the arms, horses, papers, moneys, &c., ordered me by the Committee for Indemnity. I have had many orders for payment from the estates of delinquents whom I discovered, but not received enough to pay the interest of money borrowed for the State.
I beg speedy relief; also payment of 350 l. lent to Col. Alban Cox in Feb. 1642–3, on earnest request of the late Earl of Essex and Col. Nat. Fiennes; also that a committee may sit on my case, and that I may have the pay due to my son Lucullus. [1½ pp. of a large and very closely written sheet.]
Feb. 15. 72. Petition of Rob. Michel, master of the St. Lewis of Dieppe, to the Council of State, for a pass to proceed on his voyage. Has fitted his ship to go from Dieppe to Cape de Verd and other French plantations in Africa, and return to Dieppe. Is a Protestant, well affected, and has often assisted English merchants in Barbary and Barbadoes. Begs a warrant, on account of the danger of the seas, to proceed on his voyage. [¾ page.] Annexing,
72. i. Certificate by Thos. Kendal that Michel deserves favour for bravery in defending his ship against the Dutch, and against a man-of-war of the pretended King of Scots, and for being a well affected Protestant. London, 8 Dec. 1654. [½ page.]
72. ii. Certificate by Wm. Bennett and 6 others, of his kindness in defending the English on the coast of Barbary from a French man-of-war. London, 8 Dec. 1654. [2/3 page.]
Feb. 15. Order thereon granting him a pass for 4 months, to go and return. [I. 75, p. 682.]
[Feb. 15.] 73. Petition of Colonel Robert Thorpe, prisoner in the Tower for misdemeanour, to Council, for his liberty, to perfect contracts entered into for the speedy satisfaction of his creditors. Hopes to pay the Commonwealth and all men to the last farthing. [½ page] Annexing,
73. i. Certificates of John Rushworth and Edw. Greene,—entrusted on behalf of the Commonwealth and Thorpe's creditors, to secure what estate he has by virtue of contracts or purchases of delinquents' estates, fee-farm rents, &c.,— that he has discovered an estate of such value as will satisfy the State for damage by counterfeit bills and debentures, with which he is charged, and pay his creditors for debentures and double bills discovered and accepted, but that he should have liberty to come with his keeper to Worcester House and Drury House, to assist in perfecting those contracts. 13 Feb. 1654–5. [1 page.]
Feb. 15. 74. Order thereon that the lieutenant of the Tower liberate him for a month, on sureties, to be approved by the Worcester House Trustees as of sufficient estate, then to render himself prisoner, and meantime to do nothing prejudicial. Approved 23 Feb. [¾ page. Also I. 75, pp. 682, 695.]
Feb. 15. Council. Day's Proceedings.
4. The propositions for settling Ireland delivered to Council by Lord Broghill, and other gentlemen of Ireland, who were attending at the door and called in, referred to Lambert, Desborow, Fiennes, Wolsley, Jones, and Mulgrave, to speak with the gentlemen and report their opinion. They are to meet this afternoon, and Thurloe is to attend.
5. Lord Broghill and the gentlemen again called in and informed of this order.
6. The petitions of the nobles and gentlemen of Scotland on whom fines were imposed by the late Ordinance of pardon: of Lady Mary Scott, eldest daughter and heir of the late Francis, Earl of Beaucleugh, and her tutors; and of Edward, Earl of Kincardine, Sir Wm. Scott, Patrick and James Scott, and other papers annexed, referred to Lambert, Lisle, Fiennes, Desborow, Mulgrave, Montague, Sydenham, and Strickland, to learn the state of the cases and report. Thurloe to attend them on occasion.
7. The order for continuance and maintenance of the almshouses and of the almsmen, called poor knights, and other charitable uses, whereof the late dean and canons of Windsor were feoffees in trust, passed on Sept. 2, 1654, to be printed and published. Approved 28 March.
8. One or more rooms in Derby House to be allowed for the sittings of the governors of the almshouses of Windsor Castle, to settle the corporation, if the Admiralty Commissioners can spare them.
10. The petition of Giles Vandeput, merchant of London, for a pass for the St. Peter of Lubec, 360 tuns burden, to Cadiz, read.
11. Order on petition of Arnold Woulters, merchant of Hamburgh,—stating that he having a parcel of silver value 220l., laden on his account in Spain in the St. Michael, and consigned to him at Hamburg, the ship was taken by a Commonwealth vessel, but discharged in the Admiralty Court as a free vessel, with her lading, the silver excepted; yet that on the petitioner's claiming the silver, the Admiralty Court ordered the Prize Goods' Commissioners to restore it, but they were unable to do so, as it had been coined in the Mint;—that Capt. Hatsell and Mr. Jessop examine how much the silver, originally in pieces of eight, amounts to in money, and report.
12. 75. The Admiralty Commissioners to learn the state of the Prize Office, consider how it may best be managed, and report.
13. Rous and Strickland added to the Committee on Henrique Geo. Mendez' petition, and the report to be hastened.
15. Desborow and the rest of the Committee on a paper of discovery of frauds in debentures, referred to them Jan. 29 last, to hasten their report.
17, 18. The motto encompassing that side of the Great Seal that bears his Highness' portrait to be "Olivarius Dei gratiâ Reip. Angliœ, Scotiæ, et Hiberniæ, Protector," and that on the other side to be "Magnum Sigillum Reipub. Angliœ, Scotiœ, et Hiberniœ," &c. Approved 6 March.
19. The crest and lion supporter to be crowned, according to the draft in parchment showed. Approved 6 March.
20. The size of the Great Seal to be according to the draft now shown singly in paper, and that of the Privy Seal according to the largest draft of 3 in another paper shown. Approved 6 March.
21. The Seal Manual to be, in the engraving of it, fitted to make impressions on wax. Approved 6 March.
22. Thos. Simons to be sole chief engraver for the Mint and seals, and have the fee of * * per annum annexed to his place. Approved 6 March.
23. He is immediately to set about engraving the above seals, according to directions given above, and on August 25, 1654. Approved 6 March.
24. Lambert, Fiennes, Jones, and Wolsley to consider the form of a seal for his Highness' council. [I. 75, pp. 680-684.]
Feb. 15. Commission by the Protector to Chris. Pack, Lord Mayor of London, Maj.-Gen. Phil. Skippon, Sir John Wollaston, Sir Thos. Vyner, Thos. Atkins, Thos. Andrews, John Fowke, John Dethick, Rob. Tichborne, Rich. Chiverton, Step. Estwick, Wm. Underwood, and John Ireton, Aldermen; Wm. Steele, serjeant-at-law and recorder; Col. John Berkstead, lieutenant of the Tower; Edm. Sleigh, and Thos. Allen, Aldermen and sheriffs, and 23 other military officers and gentlemen, to be Militia Commissioners for the City of London.
The enemies of the peace are still restless in their designs, and have raised forces and been in actual rebellion in several parts of the nation; but their designs have, through God's mercy, been in some measure discovered. To prevent these, the army, or most of it, will have to march into other parts; therefore, lest this great City should be left naked and exposed to the rage of wicked men, you are appointed to raise such men as you think fit to bear arms, under officers (to be appointed by the Protector on consultation with you), who shall lead, muster, and employ them to suppress all rebellions, insurrections, tumults, and unlawful assemblies; and to seize, disarm, and slay all who levy forces against Government. Also to disarm all known Popish and dangerous or seditious persons, and such as raise tumults; and to give their arms to the well affected. You are to observe the directions of the Protector and Council. Proviso, that no citizen be drawn forth of the City and liberties for military service without his free consent. [I. 76a, pp. 22-4.]
Feb. 16. 76. A. Granger to Lord Adm. Jno. Desborow. Understanding that the matters depending are to be heard and determined before certain of the Council, I fear unless you are there and one of my judges, I shall be in much danger; but if you be present, I hope a happy issue. Endeavours have been used to possess you against me, presenting me as not having clearly dealt in my promise and engagements, but before I would commit any act to render your good opinion mistaken, I would suffer immediate death; should ages be added to my life, I should think the time too short to perform those willing duties which your great mercy calls for. Do not blot me out of your thoughts of mercy, by which I have hitherto been preserved, and on which I will only trust till I die. [1 page.]
Feb. 16. Note of a petition referred to the Committee for Petitions of Henrique Geo. Mendez, on behalf of Ferdinando Montesines Assentista, of the kingdom of Spain, for restitution of Spanish wools and cochineal imported in the St. George and Salvador. Order in Council—as to wools brought in by the Peter, Swan, and Hope, and the proceeds assigned for the King of Spain in Flanders, but the vessels taken at sea, and restitution ordered in the Admiralty Court to Montesines, in spite of which part has been seized by attachment from the Court of the Sheriff of London, at suit of Antonio Duarte Rodrigues Lamego, merchant of Rohan,—that the wools be entirely freed, as decreed in the Admiralty Court. Approved 23 Feb. [I. 92, No. 144; I. 75, pp. 685, 695.]
Feb. 16. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Lambert, Jones, Mulgrave, Desborow, Rous, Strickland, Wolsley, and Pickering, to consider a fit way to encourage the transportation of corn, butter, and cheese, and to speak with counsel how it may be done, and report.
2. Order—on report from the Committee on Ralph Stringer's petition, touching the yearly sum of 50l., for some years past paid out of the public revenue to the Minister of Macclesfield, county Chester, which sum the Committee think fit to continue;—that Jones and Montague state the case to the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, and recommend them to provide for him.
3. Desborow, Mulgrave, Jones, and Lord Lisle to consider how a commission for the preservation of customs and excise may be continued, and the powers of Commissioners of Appeals put in execution, for the better carrying out that service, and to report.
6. Thos. Simons to be medal maker for the State.
7. The petition of John Rathbone, referred by his Highness to Council, and a certificate from the late Treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall, concerning moneys alleged by the petitioner to have been brought into Goldsmiths' Hall on his discovery, read.
8. The petition of Elizabeth, widow of Thos. Pott, late Master of the Harriers to the late King, read and laid aside.
11. Eliz. Rutter's desire for an alteration in the Council's order of August 23, considered, but nothing is to be done. [I. 75, pp. 584-6.]
[Feb. 16.] 77. Petition of Thos. Horth, merchant, to the Admiralty Commissioners. Has a suit with Jno. Coachman respecting the Endeavour, commanded by Capt. Giles Shelly, which was taken and burnt by the French, and by which he lost 2,000l.; the trial being for hearing at Guildhall on 21 Nov. last, sent a subpœna to Capt. Shelly, his principal witness, at the Hope, but he excused himself, as he had a great charge of money of the State on board, to carry to Scotland, and had orders not to leave his ship, whereby petitioner had to pay costs to get the trial postponed. Coachman now takes advantage of the captain's absence, and presses for trial, on the plea that the captain is not in the service, and if he obtains the trial in the absence of the captain, it will be the loss of the suit. Begs a certificate that Shelly is in the service, and an order to the judge sitting at Guildhall to stay the trial. [¾ page.]
Feb. 16. 78. Thos. Lathum to Thos. Horth. The trial is fixed for next Tuesday, and will be deferred no longer unless you get the certificate. [Scrap.]
Feb. 17.
Assistance, Plymouth Sound.		 79. Capt. Thos. Sparling to Gen. Jno. Desborow. I brought a prize into Plymouth, and sailed for the Soundings, but splitting my sails, was forced in again; after repairing defects, I set sail for my second station, but could not reach it through contrary winds. I met a French frigate, one of the permission ships belonging to St. Malo, bound home from Spain, laden with hides, sherry, sack, soap, tobacco, sugar, and oil; in the captain's chest I found 3 small pigs of silver, value 300l., with a bag containing 400 pieces of 8. I brought them on board the Assistance, conceiving that they, with the few things between decks, belonged to me and my company by virtue of the votes of encouragement, which were never repealed by his Highness; but as the Commissioners of Prize Goods here demanded them, and I refused to surrender them, I have brought the whole into Plymouth, without embezzlement, and hope you will not be dissatisfied. [1⅓ page.] Enclosing,
79. i. Examination of Wm. Caherett, master, and other officers of the Sampson of St. Malo, before Mr. Page, mayor of Plymouth.
The owners of the ship, Frenchmen, bought her of a Frenchman at St. Malo for 6200 livres, of which the master paid 1/8; he brought the ship from St. Malo laden with linen to Cadiz. There he unladed, reladed 10 pipes of sherry, and other goods, also 3 pigs of silver, and a bag of pieces of 8 for St. Malo; but meeting with contrary winds, and being leaky, was forced into Lisbon, where he took in sugar, &c., between decks. The silver and other goods were consigned to Frenchmen, and the pieces of 8 to Rich. Pistos, an Englishman at Cadiz, and the soap to a Dutchman. Upon being surprised by Capt. Sparling, at the Isle of Bas, threw all the bills of lading overboard, as also a packet of letters and writings. The ship is very leaky, and if speedy course is not taken for unlading, her goods will be spoiled. [1½ pp.]
Feb. 17.
Whitehall		 80. Petition of Robt. Bowcher and 5 others to the Protector. On 6 and 20 Oct. last, bought from the Prize Goods' Commissioners 200 tons of whale oil at a very high rate, it being then a scarce commodity, and prohibited by the Act of 9 Oct. 1651. Between the time of sale and delivery, a great quantity was brought in, contrary to the Act, and the price much lowered, so that if petitioners should be forced to stand to their contract, it will ruin them and their wives and children. Beg release from their contract, and leave to purchase the oil at the current price. With reference to the Commissioners for Prize Goods to certify, and to the Admiralty Judges to suspend proceedings meantine. [1 page. Copy.]
Feb. 19. 81. Petition of Rich. Hankin, mayor, the aldermen, common councilmen, and inhabitants of Harwich, Essex, to the Protector. God has set you over these nations for his honour and our unexpressible happiness, and fitted you to further the Gospel by advancing "painful and powerful preachers," for which all reformed churches are your daily orators, and especially all the inhabitants of our "British Jerusalem."
In our borough are 1,000 persons capable to attend worship, beside strangers flocking to one of the greatest shipping ports, yet we have no established preacher. In the corrupt times of the late King, we were joined to Dovercourt, a mile off, and the vicar preached at each place once on the Lord's day, but this has led to profaneness, tippling, and gaming in both places. We beg to have a godly divine of our own choice settled among us. Signed by the mayor, 5 aldermen, and 118 inhabitants. [1 sheet.]
Feb. 19. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order on several examinations by Sam. Cust, Rich. Cust, and Rob. Yarborough,—concerning the imprisonment of Rob. Massey, and Thomas and Israel Cave, by warrant from John Hobson, justice of peace for county Lincoln, being apprehended on their way to a religious exercise at Gedney Dike,—to advise that Hobson be summoned to answer the objections made against him by those he imprisoned. Approved 23 Feb.
2. The report on Col. Henry Pretty's petition referred back to the same Committee, to speak with him on the matter offered in this day's debate, and report.
3. 82. The Admiralty Commissioners to issue a warrant to the Ordnance officers to deliver to Lieut.-Col. John Cobbett 450 snaphance muskets, 36 pikes, 194 bandoleers, 2 barrels of powder with bullet and match, and 10 drums, for Lord Lambert's foot regiment.
6. Lambert, Fiennes, Strickland, Desborow, and Jones to advise with counsel on an Order read this day, concerning some persons in custody. [I. 75, p. 687.]
Feb. 20. Council. Day's Proceedings.
3. 83. The Admiralty Commissioners to give order as they see cause for the supply desired by Lieut.-Col. Kelsey of guns, ammunition, and other provisions (of which a list is given) for the garrison at Dover.
6. To advise an order that persons be free to go beyond sea as formerly, the late restraint notwithstanding. Approved 23 Feb.
7. Bento De la Coste, a Portugal merchant, and his family, come from Dunkirk and stayed at Margate by virtue of the late restraint, to be allowed to proceed to London, Augustin Coronel having undertaken that they shall appear before Council to be disposed of as is thought fit.
8. Order on a letter from the mayor and jurates of Rye of Feb. 15,—certifying that Nich. Dardeen, merchant of Dieppe, Fras. Biard, Peter De la Noye, Morgan Warner, and John Browne, who lately landed there from France, are stayed till further order, upon his Highness's late letter of restraint;—that they be left at liberty to repair whither their business leads them.
9. In the order of Jan. 13, concerning Mr. Bartlett, preacher, of Bideford, county Devon, instead of the words "during the sequestration," these words "during such time as he shall continue to preach the lecture there" to be inserted.
10, 11. The report on Lord Vaux to be considered next Thursday, and that from the Committee on the propositions for settling Ireland to-morrow.
12. Jones and Wolsley added to the Committee on the petition of persons fined in Scotland.
13. Order on report on the case of Col. Henry Pretty, that the same Committee bring in a letter to the Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland, to the tenor of what was reported.
14. A letter from the Deputy and Council of Ireland, dated Dublin, Feb. 14, read.
15. The motto encompassing the Great Seal to be—Olivarus Dei gratiâ reipub. Angliœ, Scotiœ, Franciœ, and Hiberniœ, &c., Protector. Approved 6 March. [I. 75, pp. 688–690.]
Feb. 20.
Poultry Computer.		 84. Jno. White to Robt. Blackborne. Pray represent my condition to the Admiralty Commissioners, and obtain me some relief. I left Truro in Cornwall to join the service, and having been wounded, I borrowed money for maintenance and cure, but have only received 10l. out of 25l., which the Admiralty Commissioners promised to repay when Jno. Carew came from Harwich; but before his return, I went to sea again, and so did not look after it. On my return, I was taken sick again, and forced to stay behind the ship, and upon recovering, was arrested, and have been confined 3 weeks without a farthing. I am likely to perish unless the Commissioners assist me.
P.S.—There are many other poor creatures with me who have not a farthing to help themselves; until I came into prison, I did not believe there was so much cruelty in the nation. [1 page.]
Feb. 21. 85. Petition of Joan, widow of Thos. Shafto, late Governor of the Holy Island, for herself and the soldiers, to the Protector. Parliament, on 31 July 1645, reduced the garrison to the ancient number, and ordered the arrears of my husband and the 80 soldiers to be paid from the estate of Col. Thos. Haggerston, Papist delinquent. On 23 Aug. 1645, the arrears were found to be 1,430l., and my husband was admitted tenant to the estate, and so continued till its sale at Drury House, 9 March 1651-2. The case was then referred to the Committee of Accounts, and by them to Parliament, which dissolved before it could be reported. The account shows an arrear of 955l. 12s. 2d., and the county Committee of Durham certify 400l. in the tenants' hands before the sale. We beg these moneys towards our arrears, and will gladly accept the remainder out of sequestrated rents, to be discovered by us. With reference thereon to Council, 12 Dec. 1654. [1 sheet.] Annexing,
85. i., ii., iii. Breviates of the above petition, on behalf of the soldiers. [3 copies.]
Feb. 21. Reference thereon to Cols. Montague and Sydenham, to report. [I. 75, p. 691.]
Council. Day's Proceedings.
Feb. 21. 1. Order on report from the Irish Committee to advise that a Great Seal be made for Ireland, and delivered to persons fit to execute the power of the Court of Chancery there; and that judges and others necessary for executing the powers of the Exchequer in Ireland be appointed with such seals as are necessary for the Courts in Ireland. Approved, 6 March.
2. A fit number of judges to be appointed for the Courts of Upper Bench, Common Pleas, Exchequer, and Chancery in Ireland.
4. The petition and papers of Sir Geo. Theobald referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to offer what they think should be done.
5. That of John, Earl of Ethye, referred to the Committee on the petitions of persons fined in Scotland, to report on it and the other petitions.
6. The petition of Col. Nich. Devereux read, and no Order given thereon.
9. To advise his Highness to consult his counsel how those who have acted under this present Government, and have not the benefit of former indemnity, may be indemnified.
10. Fiennes, Strickland, Wolsley, Pickering, and Lambert, to read papers from Lord Nieuport, Dutch Ambassador, concerning the Peter of Flushing, seized by Leonard Barnett, captain of a privateer of Foy, and carried to Guernsey; and concerning the Dove of Amsterdam, seized by the Constant Mary, a privateer of Foy, and to report.
12. Order that,—as Wm. Sadlington, captain of a Brest privateer, committed many spoils on English merchants, to their great damage, and is able to do more by his knowledge of those creeks and seas, but was willing to submit to his Highness if he might be free from molestation for past acts; whereon his Highness granted him a warrant to pass with his family from France to England, and to remain here in safety, on which he brought in his ship and has lived peaceably since; but Rob. Hammond, merchant of London, has arrested him in the Upper Bench on an action of trover and conversion, for former depredations, contrary to the said pass and protection, and in prejudice of future transactions of like nature;— his Highness feels himself obliged to secure Sadlington, and requires Hammond and all others to surcease prosecution against him. [I. 75, pp. 690–2.]
Feb. 21. 86. Edw. Taylor to Mr. Tibbs. You wished to meet me and Mr. Collison at noon, but I am engaged, therefore you must appoint some other time. [½ page.]
Feb. 21. 87. Receipts for 10l. and 50l. on behalf of Major Peter Ceely, from Capt. John Pearse. [⅓ page.]
Feb. 23. 88. Petition of Thos. Eles, English merchant, to the Protector, for an Order to Dr. Walker, Judge Advocate, to allow him to receive some linen, serges, and other goods, shipped by him on board the Three Kings and the St. John, in France, for St. Lucar, taken by the ships of the Commonwealth, and brought into Plymouth as prize, on giving security for their value. With reference thereon to the Commissioners for Prize Goods. [Copy, ¾ page.]
Feb. 23. 89, 90. Propositions by M. Vandeput for the import of bullion:
1. That a declaration pass for its free import by natives or foreigners without seizure, according to the Declaration of 9 Jan. 1650–1.
2. That no letters of reprisal extend to the taking away of bullion that is to be landed in this Commonwealth, the noise of the Richauts' obtaining letters of marque against the Spaniard having struck such a terror into those of Flanders, that they dare not venture their estates here without assurance of safety.
3. That convoys be granted on request, especially that 3 or 4 ships be at Cadiz in April, to convoy the silver that will come with the galleons then expected.
4. The entry of all bullion to be made to one person appointed by his Highness, on oath not to divulge the entries, nor show the books without leave, in order to prevent the subtlety of the Spanish Ambassador in prying into what silver is imported here, or exported from Spain, to the ruin of the laders in Spain, if they should be discovered.
5. This may advance the Mint to what it was before, when 100,000l. was coined yearly, whereas for the last 14 years not 20,000l. a year has been coined.
6. This Declaration should be dispatched by 1 March, that advice may be given in Flanders and Spain, so that we may have the benefit of the galleons then expected. The want of a like Declaration last June caused the silver, which else would have come into our channel, to be sent to Holland. [1 page, 2 copies.]
Feb. 23. Reference thereon in Council to Jones, Desborow, Fiennes, Lambert, and Mulgrave; Sec. Thurloe to assist. [I. 75. p. 693.]
Council. Day's Proceedings.
Feb. 23. 2, 18. Jones' report from the Committee of a draft of an order for continuing the Commission for preservation of the Customs read, offered to his Highness, and approved.
5. The petition of Ed. Nathley, minister,—sequestered from a fellowship in Cambridge, and lately presented to Nenfield Rectory, co. Sussex, to which he cannot be admitted on account of the sequestration, without a particular approbation from his Highness;—referred to Nye, Lockyer, Peters, and Sterry, to ascertain his submission to the present Government, and his fitness to preach, and to report.
6. 91. The petition of Giles Vandeput, merchant of London, for a pass for the St. Peter of Lubec, from Havre de Grace in France, to Cadiz in Spain, and the draft of a warrant for passing the Victory, of French build, to go to Faro, St. Lucar, and other parts of Portugal, and to return, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to grant the passes if they see fit.
8. The petition and remonstrance of Geo. Wither referred to Pickering, Jones, Rous, Major, Lambert, Desborow, and Wolsley, to consult with the trustees at Drury House, and his Highness' counsel learned, and report.
9. Mr. Jessop to give an account to Council what orders have passed for allowing money to transport preachers to Ireland, and what persons, having received the money, are not gone.
10. Wolsley, Rous, Pickering, and Jones to prepare a letter to be sent to Cambridge concerning Mr. Ackhurst, according to this day's debate.
11. 92. Order—on the petition of George Vyne, for his mother, 8 children and himself, and an order of 14 Aug. 1654, assigning them a debt of 600l., due from the executors of Sir Sim. Every, Bart., Receiver-general of the Duchy of Lancaster,—that the Treasury Commissioners enquire as to the state of the debt, and the best means for getting it in, and report.
12. Order on a letter of Feb. 17, 1654–5, to request his Highness to publish a Declaration to forbid horse-races for 6 months within this nation.
13. Lord Lisle added to the Committee for settling Ireland.
14. The petition of Mary Gargreave, one of the maids of honour to the late Queen Anne, read.
15. That of Elizabeth, widow of Col. John Kynnaston,—concerning a pension of 3l. a week settled on her, and made payable at Goldsmiths' Hall, but the payment discontinued in respect of the late Ordinance for bringing the public revenue into one Treasury; also a certificate from the Treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall, concerning a weekly allowance of 3l. to the Earl of Worcester, discontinued since Jan. 8, last,—referred to the Committee on the method of paying the Council's contingency money.
16. The report in Lord Vaux' case to be considered on Tuesday.
17. Approval by the Protector of 10 orders named, from 14 to 20 Feb.; orders of 25 Aug., 1654, and 15 and 20 Feb., 1654–5, concerning the seals, read, but time taken by him to consider thereof.
19. Order that—as by the 27th Article of Government, the revenue is to be raised by Customs, and in other ways, and several Ordinances have already passed for the continuance of Customs,—to the end that they may be effectually collected, Sir Wm. Roberts, John Stone, Adam Baynes, John Price, Gervase Bennet, and John Bocket be continued as a Committee for Preservation of Customs, to see to the execution of all Orders and Ordinances relating thereto, as they did before 2 Sept. 1654. [I. 75, pp. 693–6.]
Feb. 23.
Fairfax, Downs.		 93. Rich. Creed to [Blackborne]. I send you letters on a report touching Capt. Foster, which were sent to the vice-admiral, who is not willing his name should be used therein. The vice-admiral is so apprehensive that the captain is guilty that he purposes, as soon as the frigate sent to convoy some merchantmen to Dunkirk returns, to stay her here until the Commissioners' pleasure be received, and he is for speedily calling her in, to have time for examining the charges. The vice-admiral desires to know if the peace with France is fully concluded, and he and the Judge-advocate present their service. The Paradox has gone with Mr. Edwards to Flushing, by warrant of his Highness. [1 page.] Annexing,
93. i. Thos White to [Vice-admiral Lawson.] According to your directions, I have stirred in a cistern which I thought to be pure water, but it proved so foul I am grieved to see it. I have procured what I here present, and beg you will return the three letters.—Dover, 17 Feb. 1653–4. [½ page.]
93. ii. Eliz. Locke to Vice-admiral Lawson. You enquire of some proceedings between a captain in the sea service and myself. The captain came to my father's house in last July pretending he was a widower, and desired him to bestow me upon him as his wife, which my father granted, if I approved. He pretending much affection I consented, and we exchanged rings, but there were no witnesses present. When he went to the Seine Head, he desired me to provide my wedding clothes against his return, and if he should be ordered to London, Harwich, or Portsmouth, he would get leave to come to Dover, that we might be married. Likewise, he told me he would send to my father, to have it published in the church, so that there might be no delay at his return.
Being persuaded that he was a Godly man, I went to London to buy apparel for my wedding. But after this the master and carpenter of the Phoenix came to my father's house, and affirmed that the captain had been married to another woman many years, that his wife is now living, and that, leaving her, he went over to Barbadoes, and there had another wife; that about the time of the rising in Barbadoes, he left the second wife there and came to England; but she, intending to follow him, was drowned coming home, and now he has taken his first wife again.—Dover, 17 Feb. 1654.[1½ pages.]
Feb. 24. 94. Petition of Mary Howell, Ann Howcraft, Ann Lanne, and Elizabeth Cooe, of East Smithfield, to Gen. Jno. Desborow. We presented a petition and letter to Robert Blackborne, addressed to the Commissioners, but received no answer. Capt. Nich. Foster, of the Phoenix, married a woman in England 16 years since, and lived with her, and then went to Barbadoes and married another woman. His wife in England, having waited eight years and hearing that he had again married, also married Wm. Wilboare, of the East India trade, and had a child by him. Capt. Foster, hearing of this, left his wife in Barbadoes, and returned to England, pretending he did so for the sake of religion; Wilboare having then gone to the Indies, Capt. Foster took his wife to live with him again, alleging that what he had done was by the advice of the best in England, so that most people who know it judge strangely of those in power. We beg that he may be checked, so that others may take warning. If the truth hereof is questioned, you can send to Mary Howell, near the Rose, in East Smithfield, when you can hear further, as Wilboare was her tenant for six years.
With marginal notes of witnesses; also examination, 28 Feb., of Capt. Foster. Married Eliz. Remnant at Old Fish Street Hill, in Sept. 1639, and being in Barbadoes, and not having heard of her for nine years, married Mary Barber; after living with her three years, she was cast away coming over to England two years since. Took his first wife again on the advice of some good people, who said it was a sin to live apart, and sinful for her to live as she did. Had no child by either, and has lived with Eliz. Remnant since August last. Has corresponded with Eliz. Locke, widow, at Dover, but never promised her marriage, although her father spoke about it, and she offered somewhat tending thereto. [1 sheet.]
Feb. 24. Council. Day's Proceedings.
95. Order that eight ships of war be forthwith prepared to assist the fleet gone on the western expedition, to convoy, besides their own seamen, 1,000 landmen; that victuals and provisions be prepared for them. Also that three months' provisions more for the fleet already gone westward be sent on the State's ships or hired merchant ships. The Admiralty Committee to execute these orders. With list of 13 ships now ready. (fn. 1)
1. His Highness' proclamation prohibiting horse races for six months read, amended, and passed. [I. 75, p. 655.]
Feb. 24.
Whitehall.		 Proclamation by the Protector that whereas, notwithstanding the testimony given by Providence in the timely discovery of the plots of the disaffected, care needs still to be taken to prevent any disturbance of the peace, his Highness,—considering the great concourse of people to horse races, several of which are appointed in divers parts, and the use thereof made to raise troubles,—hereby forbids all horse races in England and Wales for six months. All mayors, sheriffs, &c., to do their utmost to prevent such meetings, and all army officers and soldiers lying near to assist them. [I. 75, pp. 696–7.]
Feb. 24.
London.		 Levant Company to Hen. Riley, consul at Aleppo. Yours of 19 June, 12 July, and 22 Sept. give account of your troubles with the Basha on his demand of 40,000 dollars because our ships did not fight with the Corsair in defence of the port, and of your success in opposing the demand, and obtaining the release of the caravan. We are troubled that you have no respite from the injustice of that tyrant Basha, and the imprisonment of our poor marine factor may have hastened his death so soon after. We have chosen as successor Wm. Bodington, taken his security, and shall send him out.
We are sorry our own factors add to the distractions by their refractory courses, but you must see our orders performed, whatever may be their conceits touching our want of authority, which we hope will be confirmed, as needful for our trade. Meantime we shall do our best here, and you must do the same. Mr. Griffith, who is to be our treasurer, will carefully collect duties on the goods of the African, newly departed, and on other ships, and give us accounts of that, and also of the leviations, which we desire to be individual and apart on each ship.
We marvel that any should be so unreasonable as to stop their consulage on the old score of the Hattecheriff business, as those very men deserted their interest therein from fear of excessive charge and trouble; therefore we are satisfied with the course you take thereon to prevent the loss of our dues. We are sorry that those of our nation are not united, the better to oppose foreign incursions. We recompense your endeavours by allowing your gratuity of 1,000 dollars for Michaelmas, 1655, to continue till further orders, as was done for 1652 and 1653, but not for 1654, you paying the 300 dollars for minister's diet.
P.S.—As to a treasurer there, one responsible factor is to have the employment for a year at 200 dollars, to be changed yearly; the person to have been resident 2 years, and to be a servant to some freeman. [Levant papers, Vol. 4, pp. 236–7.]
Feb. 24.
London.		 Levant Company to Spencer Bretton, consul at Smyrna. We still think, in spite of yours of 15 and 29 Oct. that your gratuity might have been collected out of the 2¼ dollars per cloth, which you must still collect, and return the names of refusers, but we allow the gratuity to be paid by our treasurer out of our ordinary duties. We shall refuse credit for their leviations to those who neither pay duty here nor there, and thus, we hope, reduce them to conformity.
You had gratuities for 1652 and 1653, but not for 1654; it will be renewed 1 Aug. 1655, and continue till further order.
Another ¼ of what was due on our bills of exchange being paid from the duties on the Scout inwards, we expect the remainder, 1,000 dollars, will be paid by the dues outward from that, and 3 other ships.
We hope Mr. Winchester, the minister, who left in September, is long ere this with you, else the character you gave of Mr. Haules might induce us to forbear sending one hence.
We note your present to the Captain Basha, and his civility. We can give no further orders about the cloths of Domingo Vaes de Brito, which our treasurer has taken steps to preserve from further hurt by the sea.
We are intending to appoint set and annual ships, and till their going out, we have forbidden the sending of any cloth to those parts, on penalty of 20 per cent. See that this is levied if there be occasion. [Levant papers, Vol. 4, pp. 238–9.]
Feb. 26. 96. Petition of Joachim Laurence and David Sollicost, merchants, and subjects of the Protestant Cantons of Switzerland, on behalf of themselves and Jno. Scrottering, Senator of Hamburg, to Secretary Thurloe. Their ship, the Peter Mathias, was taken by some of the State's ships, and the goods sold by the Prize Commissioners; but after proof in the Admiralty Court, the judges ordered the goods to be restored. Having been long kept on board, they were much damaged, and sold for 5,000l. less than they would have yielded; and the Commissioners deducted 2,000l. for expenses. They pretended to deliver in kind a parcel of the goods, long since sold but not consigned, to the value of 1,500l., which, being decayed, sold for 1,000l. less than the first bargain. They also omitted 8 casks and 45 bags of currants, 24 of almonds, and a chest of verdigris, value 500l., and pretended that they never received them, but that the goods were plundered by those who took the ship. They have also delayed the petitioners 5 months, at great cost and trouble.
As this is the only claim made by the Switzers during the wars, and considering the great loss sustained by bringing up their goods without just cause of seizure, they desire that the vast charge of 2,200l. may be remitted or reduced, and that they may be dismissed without further delay. With reference by the Protector to the Commissioners of Prizes. [1 page.]
Feb. 26. 97. Order in Council that the Admiralty Commissioners take care that 3 months' victuals be provided for Gen. Blake's squadron in the Mediterranean, or that bills of credit be sent to him to supply himself there, in whole or in part, and that they consider the best way of sending the provisions to him. (fn. 2) [½ page.]
Feb. 27. 98. Petition of Capt. John Cramp, Jas. Sadler, and other owners of the Consent, to the Protector. In 1642 our ship, which, with the lading of Newfoundland fish, linen cloth, &c., was worth 8,338l., was in Alicant, where the Viceroy gave leave for its unlading, and yet he seized and detained it, to our further loss of 8,000l. We cannot obtain its recovery in Spain, and have appealed to the Admiralty Court here. We beg your direction to the Admiralty Judges to report thereon, and then letters of reprizal for recovery of our loss. [1 page.]
Feb. 27. 99. Order in Council for a report by the Admiralty Judges accordingly. [2/3 page. Copy. Also I. 75, p. 698.]
[Feb. 27.] 100. Petition of several tradesmen in and about London to the Protector. We have supplied the Earl and Countess of Banbury with goods to great value, and some of us became bound for them in large sums. Lord Vaux and his wife, the Countess of Banbury, mother of the Earl, were willing to pay the debts from their own estates to procure the Earl's liberation from prison, and on the late Act enabling Recusants to compound for their estates, had agreed with the Haberdashers' Hall Commissioners for discharge of their estate; but you having suspended that Act, the composition was laid aside, and thus we are disappointed of payment. We beg you to hear their petition to proceed in their composition. 26 signatures. [1 page.]
[Feb. 27.] 101. Petition of Nicholas, Earl of Banbury, Isabella his wife, Edward Lord Vaux of Harrowden, and Elizabeth, Countess Dowager of Banbury, his wife, mother of the Earl of Banbury, to the Protector. The earl and countess, being both very young, have run themselves into debt, 10,000l., for which the earl has long lain in the Upper Bench Prison, and they cannot pay without sale of lands, which they cannot sell because the lands are sequestered for recusancy of Lord Vaux, though the earl and countess are "firm and constant Protestants." Beg leave to compound for the estate, and have the sequestration discharged. With reference thereon, 27 July, to counsel learned, and their report, 26 Sept., in favour of the composition. [1 sheet.]
[Feb. 27.] 102. Like petition to Council. [1 page.]
Feb. 27. Reference thereon by Council to the Treasury Commissioners. [I. 75, p. 698.] Annexing,
102. i. Report of the said Commissioners, that the composition requested is inconsistent with an Order of Council of 2 September 1654, that the 2/3 of recusants' estates be put under government of the Court of Exchequer, with power to the Treasury Commissioners to grant leases for 21 years, or 3 lives, and the revenues to defray the expenses of Government. 8 March 1654–5. [¾ page.]
Feb. 27. 103. Petition of Major Geo. Sanderson, servant and pensioner to the King of France, to the Protector. There are coals transported daily from Newcastle-on-Tyne to France and other foreign parts, whereby some benefit arises to the nation; but I would transport them to France with far greater benefit, without injury to any. I beg a patent for the sole transport, binding myself to transport as many as before, and to pay double customs. With holograph reference by the Protector. "We desire the Council to consider this petition, and whether the same be not a monopoly, and so prejudicial to the liberty of the people; or whether it may not lawfully be granted, to the advancement of the public revenue, upon the reasons and grounds annexed." 19 Feb. 1655. [1 page.] Annexing,
103. i. Reasons in favour of the petition: That before, the customs were often stolen, but now will be certain, and on security. That Sanderson was never an enemy, and has the King of France's patent to be the only seller of coals in France. That none will lose, for he will employ the same men and vessels at the usual rates, and desires liberty only for France. [¾ page.]
Feb. 27. Note that the question whether it should be committed in Council passed in the negative. [I. 75, p. 699.]
Feb. 27. 104. Petition of Jas. Collelas, master of the Anne of Dieppe, to the Protector. On my 2 former petitions, showing that most of the persons interested in the ship are well-affected Protestants, you stayed the sale of the ship and goods till further order. The Prize Goods' Commissioners have had her unladen, and appraised her goods at 1,280l., and will speedily sell them, thus intercepting your compassion to poor Protestants. We beg an order for restitution of ship and goods. With reference thereon to Lisle, Pickering, Desborow, and Montague, to report, the ship being set to sale on Monday, at Portsmouth. [1 page.]
Feb. 27. Order in Council, on report about the Anne of Dieppe, taken by ships in the service, that if the French Protestant owners buy the ship and lading when put to sale by the Prize Goods' Commissioners, and apply to Council, they shall have licence to transport them to foreign parts, provided they may be transported by law. [I. 75, p. 699.] Annexing,
105. i. Report on which the above Order is founded. [1 page.]
Feb. 27. 106. Petition of divers makers of alum and copperas to the Protector and Council. These manufactures produce 50,000l. a year, most of which is vented beyond sea, but are burdened with an insupportable charge towards the public revenue, and the last excise was charged on the maker instead of on the buyer. When the commodities were shipped, there used always to be a defalcation of excise, because customs were paid; but since the last excise Ordinance, both excise and customs are charged. Beside the pressure of this double payment, there is an imposition on coals, which should not be charged on base coal used for manufactures for foreign vent; so that these taxes will destroy the manufactures. Beg relief, as States do not destroy their native manufactures; or if the taxes must be continued, beg they may be charged on the buyer, not the maker. [¾ page.]
Feb. 27. Reference thereon by Council to Mulgrave, Lambert, Desborow, and Pickering, to report. [I. 75, p. 700.]
Feb. 27. Council. Day's Proceedings.
2. 107. The Admiralty Commissioners to give warrant to the ordnance officers to deliver 500 muskets and bandoleers, 200 pikes, and 20 barrels of powder to Col. John Berkstead, lieutenant of the Tower.
5. The petition of Mary Symonds, widow, concerning a pension of 1l. a week allowed her by Parliament out of Haberdashers' Hall, alledged to be in arrear since last midsummer, referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to report.
6. To advise that 500l. should be advanced to Lord Hen. Cromwell, on his going to Ireland as one of the Council there; his allowance to begin from Michaelmas last. Approved 12 March.
7. Wm. Thomas, keeper of the late standing wardrobe at Windsor (all excuses set apart), to deliver to Kinnersley all the hangings belonging to the Commonwealth which remain in his keeping, to be used for his Highness' service.
11. 25,000l. to be sent forthwith to Ireland, and 25,000l. more by sea to Scotland, for pay of the forces; the Treasury Commissioners to consult with the Army Committee and Treasurersat-war, as to how the money may most speedily be provided, and to report.
12. 108. The Admiralty Commissioners to consider of a ship fit to transport 25,000l. by sea to Scotland, and to order her to perform the same.
13. The declaration and order for continuing the duty of excise and new impost read, and a clause in the 2nd folio left out.
15. Mulgrave, Lambert, Desborow, and Pickering to speak to the Commissioners for Appeals in the matter of excise, concerning complaints to Council about the excise, and to consider how a regulation may be made therein for the ease of the people, without prejudice to the public. [I. 75, pp. 697–700.]
Feb. 27.
Whitehall.		 President Lawrence to the Master of Trinity College, Cambridge. The charge against Mr. Ackhurst, — containing abominable expressions uttered by him which deserve severe punishment, having been under consideration of Council, as also his answer, pleading freedom from punishment in regard of the lapse of time within which he should lawfully have been charged;—Council, desiring that all their proceedings should be lawful, send him to you, to proceed with him according to the statutes of your College. [I. 75, pp. 700, 703.]
Feb. 27. 109. Certificate by Rich. Williams, St. Bride's, London, that 818l. 13s. 9d. is still due to him on assignment [viz., 374l. 1s. 3d. and 444l. 12s. 6d.], and has been demanded at Worcester House. [1/8 page.] Prefixing,
109. i. Certificate by Col. Thos. Birch, that Capt. Rob. Scoales was captain of a foot company under Col. Ralph Ashton, for the safety of Lancashire, and has a true debenture for his service. 10 Jan. 1654–5. [½ page.]
109. ii.-iii. Account of moneys due to Capt. Rob. Lucas for service in Col. Geo. Dodding's regiment, as certified by the Committee for co. Lancaster, balance due, 444l. 12s. 6d. [2 copies.]
109. iv. Assignment by Capt. Rob. Lucas, of Kellet, co. Lancaster, to Col. Wm. West, of all the sums due to him on the said debenture. 7 Jan. 1652–3–4. [¼ page.]
109. v. Re-assignment by Col. Wm. West, of Middleton, co. Lancaster, of the said 444l. 12s. 6d. to Enoch Howett, of co. Lancaster. 11 Feb. 1652–3. [¾ page.]
109. vi. Re-assignment thereof by Howett to Quartermaster Rich. Williams. 21 March 1652–3. [¾ page.]
109. vii. Certificate by Col. Wm. West, that Lucas served constantly from Oct. 1643 to March 1645–6, for the safety of the county, and was no clubman, and that his debenture is real and true. 30 Dec. 1653. [½ page.]
Feb. 28. 110. Petition of Capt. Wm. Sadlington to Council. Although I received your order for my discharge [See 21 Feb. 1655], which your messenger, Edm. Tison, served on my adversary, Rob. Hammond, yet I am still detained in prison, in contempt of your decree. I beg an order to Sir John Lenthall for my liberty, and consideration for my vast losses and charges in 6 months' imprisonment. [1 page.]
Feb. 28. Order thereon that Hammond attend Council to show why he refuses or delays to execute the order. [I. 76, p. 701.]
Feb. 28. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Lord Lisle, Mulgrave, Fiennes, Jones, Wolsley, Strickland, Sydenham, and Desborow, to consider the settlement of a civil government in Scotland, and prepare something fit to offer to his Highness and Council.
2, 3. The proposition made by the Dutch Ambassador, reported by Fiennes, referred to the Commissioners on the Dutch Treaty, to speak with the said Ambassador, and report. At their next meeting with him, they are to press payment of the sum already determined by the Commissioners to determine merchants' claims.
4. The declaration for continuing the duty of excise and new impost again read, and these words inserted "the same shall be altered by consent of the Lord Protector and Parliament," when is was agreed, approved by his Highness, and ordered to be printed and published.
5. The draft of a proclamation read and re-committeed. [I. 75, p. 701.]
Feb. 28. Declaration of the Protector and Council, continuing the duty of excise and new impost, ordered in the 27th Article of the Government, for maintaining 10,000 horse and dragoons, and 20,000 foot in England, Scotland, and Ireland, and ships to guard the seas, besides the 200,000l. a year for other expenses of Government, to be raised by Customs, and not altered but by consent of the Protector and Parliament. All former Acts for excise and impost to be continued till further orders. The Commissioners named for Excise and Appeals, 17 March 1653–4, to remain in office. [Excise coll. pp. 155–7. Vol. 98, June 1655. I. 76 a, pp. 20–1.]
Feb. ? 111. Petition of Wm. Hamilton, late captain for the Parliament of England, to the Admiralty Commissioners. I petitioned you the 7th of last month, and received a gracious answer; but on the 14th I was visited with sickness, and my wounds, received in the State's service, broke out afresh. I have pawned my clothes for attendance, my money is gone, and I have now no surgeon, and my solicitor has not dealt honestly by me. I have been faithful to the State in England, Scotland, and Ireland, and received a shot from an Irishman which will cause my death unless I have a speedy release from this woeful prison, which I beg may be without fees or chamber rent. [1 page.]
Feb. ? 112. Petition of Thos. Greene to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have been attending the Navy Commissioners 12 months to pass my accounts for repairing and fitting out ships, and I hear that they have reported objections against my accounts. I beg to be allowed to answer them, as they are unjust, and my accusers are the persons who embezzled the goods. [1 page.] Annexing,
112. i. Account, by Thos. Greene, of cordage supplied to several ships named, as extraordinary expense in harbour. [1 sheet.]
112. ii. Account of 7 bills drawn by him on the Navy Treasurer in Dec. 1653. [Scrap.]
112. iii. Exceptions taken by Geo. Kendall to Greene's account of stores and rigging for ships, e.g., that no allowance is made for old sails and rigging; that the master shipwright has not signed the musters of the carpenters, nor is the boatswain's hand to those of workmen whose names are entirely unknown; that bills are charged for timber which was not used. "Some that were mustered for boys at 6d. a day in former musters, are mustered for men at 2s. 6d. a day in other musters. Quœre, how they come to be so improved in 6 months' time?" [2¾ pages.]
112. iv. Deposition of Lewis Whitehead, boatswain of the Crow, before Judge-advocate Fowler thereon. [1 page.]
112. v. Greene's vindication of himself from the above and other charges. [1¼ pages.]
112. vi. Like vindications from numerous charges of fraud in the management of stores. Was only in office 11 months, and has been attending a far longer time to perfect his accounts, at great charge. [2 pages.]
Feb. ? 113. Notes, partly in shorthand [by Sec. Nicholas], relative to the King's jewels in pawn in Holland. If the King had now money to redeem them, he might save ½ the sum for which they were engaged; those in Webster's hands are worth 20,000l.; he will only give 11,000l.
The 4 rubies yet free should be sent to Brussels and Antwerp, and if not sold for more, Webster to have them for 2,500l. on condition of redemption without interest by Michaelmas.
2,070l. pays the interest on the jewels at Amsterdam till 12 May, so there is still time to redeem them.
The Pindar jewel, bought for 20,000l., was sold for 5,000l., and may be redeemed for 5,300l.
Those in Webster's hands were sold to him by the Earl of Norwich for 9,000l., but he promised the Queen to keep them awhile. He will deliver them to the King in 3 months for 11,000l. Thos. Cletcher had the great cross diamond, worth 4,000l. for 3,000l. [¼ sheet.]
Feb.
London.		 114. Certificate by Wm. Ryley, Norroy King-at-arms, at request of Fras. Offley, gent., of Elbing, Prussia,—6th son by birth, but by the death of his brothers become eldest son,—that he finds from the records in the College of Arms that Francis is the son of Thos. Offley, agent for the merchants of London in Prussia, son of Hugh Offley, sheriff and alderman of London in 1588, second son of William, mayor and sheriff of Chester, son of Rich. Offley, of an ancient Staffordshire family, who had 23 sons and 3 daughters, and lived to be 86. The family is ancient and honourable, and has married into great houses. With assignation of arms (missing) to Fras. Offley. [Latin, 2¾ pages.]
Feb.?
London.		 115. Like certificate as to the descent of Rich. Smyth, of Prussia, from a knightly family of Smyths, his father being Ant. Smyth, of Cuerdley, co. Lancaster, and his mother, Catherine, one of the daughters and heirs of Rich. Whitelock, whose elder brother, Sir James, was one of the Justiciaries of the King's Bench. [Latin, 2½ pages.]

Footnotes

  • 1. This order, being secret, is not in the Council Order Book.—Ed.
  • 2. This secret Order is not in the Council Order Book.—Ed.
PreviousTable of contentsNext