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| Dec. 1. |
1. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. I will send you a bill from Sir
Fras. [Norris] next post. He has not got his money returned, but I
have credit for it. You have meantime a bill at sight from Sir
Ralph Hare for Mr. Leigh, for 100l. |
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I hear nothing of the books that should come from Nantes for
your book; enquire particulars of them, and how they were sent,
with the prices. We shall have the 4th volume of the great Bible,
the New Testament, by Christmas. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 1. |
2. Sir F. Norris to Williamson. I send 50l. Ned will tell me, before he has spent it, how long he means to stay in France. I do not
intend to send for him at present, though Mr. Whorwood is sending
for his son. My wife would have him to see Paris this winter, but
I know not how to direct it. God keep him from the smallpox,
which is much in London. Mr. Whorwood spoke well of you to
me. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 2. |
3. Tabular list of hackney coachmen in and about London, giving
in parallel columns— |
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1. The wards in London or Westminster. |
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2. Persons admitted more than are allowed. |
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3. Number of horses allowed them. |
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4. Number wrought more than allowed, 49 pairs. |
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5. Persons in being at the time of the Ordinance, and persons
dismissed. |
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6. Number wrought by them, 95. |
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7. Persons set up since the Ordinance. |
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8. Number of horses, 41. |
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9. Persons set up since 4 Sept., when the order of restraint was
made. |
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10. Number of horses, 50 pairs. |
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Making a total of 235 pairs of horses more than the 250 allowed.
[1⅓ sheet.] |
| [Dec. 2.] |
4. Note that 235 hackney coaches and pairs of horses are wrought
in and about London more than allowed by his Highness' Ordinance,
of which 50 have been set up since Council's order to stay all proceedings on the by-laws, besides many not yet discovered and
brought into the list, and others daily setting up, encouraged by the
stay of proceedings. [½ page.] |
| Dec. 2. |
Order thereon in Council, that the suspension of proceedings on
the by-laws touching hackney coachmen, ordered 19 Aug. last,
be taken off, and the Lord Mayor and Aldermen consider the
ordinances for their regulation, the by-laws, and the complaints of
the persons aggrieved thereby, redress them, revise the said by-laws,
offer to Council what they think fit to reform their severity, consider
who are now overseers, take care that only honest and faithful
persons be overseers, and put out such as are otherwise. In the
number of coachmen to be allowed, special regard is to be taken of
such as are well affected, and the business to be so regulated that
there be no just cause of complaint, and no prosecution of any
for offences against the by-laws since 19 Aug., when proceedings
thereon were suspended. [I. 77, pp. 536–7.] |
| [Dec. 2.] |
5. Thos. Manby, Ri. Lacy, and Jo. Hildesley, judges for probate
of wills, to the Earl of Mulgrave. In May 1655, his Highness ordered
Anne Prigeon, from the casual profits of our Court, 10l. at once, and
10l. yearly; she has received 5l. out of one Ranshaw's estate, but
since then no such payments have been made. We have no power
to compel casual profits, which would be considerable if got in, so
the order cannot be fulfilled without a Privy Seal to pay from the
other profits. 28 Nov. 1656. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 2. |
Order thereon in Council to advise a warrant for payment of 20l.
to her from the Exchequer. [I. 77, p. 538.] |
| Dec. 2. |
7. Petition of the inhabitants of Leeds, co. York, to the Protector.
We bless the Lord that His hand has been your guardian in all
your undertakings for the governing of this Commonwealth, and
will do our best for your preservation. |
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In 2 Charles, we were made a corporation, with 1 alderman,
9 burgesses, and 20 assistants, but the patent was procured without
a general consent of the clothiers and inhabitants, and there were
defects which have caused many vexations and evils. To appease
this, it was agreed that the old charter should be surrendered, and
there should be a new patent requested, for a mayor, 12 aldermen,
and 30 common councilmen. This was done in 1642, when the
King was at Nottingham, and the wars began. Then the present
governors revived the said government, and there has been much
oppression and illegality, unjust by-laws, oppressing the clothiers,
and unlawful taxes, imprisoning, and taking of goods. We therefore beg a new charter of incorporation, with a mayor, 12 aldermen,
and 30 common councilmen, to be indifferently chosen, with power
to elect a burgess to sit in Parliament. With reference to Council,
1 Dec. 1656. [1 sheet, and 10 sheets of signatures, a large proportion being by mark.] |
| Dec. 2. |
Order thereon for incorporation as desired, Mr. Shepard and the
other Commissioners for Charters to consider of fit powers and
privileges, prepare a draft, and present it to Council. Approved in
person. [I. 77, p. 539.] |
| Dec. 2. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
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(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
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8. 2. Wolsley, Pickering, and Strickland, to consider a paper from
Maj.-Gen. Haynes, concerning an allowance for him as housekeeper
at Hampton Court, under an assignment from Thos. Smithsby, and
to report. |
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3. The report from the Treasury Commissioners on the petition of
Wm. Paul, farmer of the prizage of wines, under Sir Wm. Waller,
and the papers annexed, referred to Desborow, Jones, the Lord
Deputy, and Pickering; Mr. Secretary to assist. |
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4.* Order—on petition of the inhabitants of Cheshunt, co. Herts,
that the profits arising from the small tithes due to the vicarage
there are only worth 30l. a year (beside 57l. given by King James
for the tithes of Theobald Park), and being scattered in 26 fee-farm
rents through Essex and Herts they are not worth more than 40l. a
year on account of the public taxes, and the charge of gathering
them, and that the whole 70l. a year is not a competent maintenance
for their minister, John Yeates, a Godly and able preacher—
that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers be recommended to
settle an augmentation of 50l. per annum on him. |
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5.* Approval of an order by the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers of the continuance to Jas. Wyer, present minister of
Doddington, co. Oxon, of an augmentation granted by the Committee for reformation of the Universities of 80l. to Nath. Partridge,
minister, who is removed. |
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6. An order of 18 Nov. for payment to Capt. John Leverett of
2,000l. from discoveries, on his privy seal for a debt of
4,482l. 3s. 11½d., for disbursements about forts taken from the
French in America, recalled, and he left to the benefit of his privy seal. |
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8.* Order—on petition of divers inhabitants of the parish of
Pickering, co. York, that it is an ancient market town, consisting of
300 families, beside several places and towns appertaining, and that
the rectory belonged to the late Deanery of York, and the cure
thereof is worth but 12l. a year, whereby they are deprived of the
ministration of any able preacher—that the Trustees for Maintenance
of Ministers settle an augmentation of 60l. on a lecturer there, out
of the tithes of the impropriate rectory of Pickering, or the rent
reserved therefrom, as soon as such a sum shall arise above what it
is now charged with by the Trustees, and meantime as much of the
60l. as they can. |
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12. Order—on report on the petition of Meredith Lewis, late
sheriff of co. Brecon [see 25 Nov. 1656]—that a Privy Seal be issued
remitting the fines laid on him in the Exchequer [for not producing
Thos. Games] when he was sheriff. Annexing, |
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9. Report alluded to, stating that Games was detained in the
sheriff's hands by a writ of the Commissioners for
Monthly Assessments, for embezzling public treasure in
his hands, and advising remission of Lewis' fines. Signed
by Desborow, Jones, and Strickland, 2 Dec. 1656.
[¾ page.] |
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9. i. Certificate by H. Burwell, master of the office, as to what part
of the fines were paid when Lewis was, or was not, in
office. [1 page.] |
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13. 500l. a piece to be allowed to Nathaniel and Francis Bacon
for their yearly salary as masters of requests, and his Highness
advised to order the payment thereof quarterly. |
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14. The clerks attending the masters of requests to accept no
fees from petitioners for their services. |
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15. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay
Frost 5,000l. for Council's contingencies, to enable him to pay the
salaries of clerks and officers attending Council, and of messengers
and Serjeant's deputies. |
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16.* Order that from the first Council's contingency money that
Frost shall receive, he pay the sums owing to Nath. Bacon, as a
master of requests. |
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18. The certificate from the justices of peace in co. Norfolk, on
the petition of Thos. Dawson and other inhabitants of Swaftham,
shewing their losses by a fire there last July, and praying a patent
for a collection, referred to Sydenham, the Lord Deputy, Jones,
Pickering, and Lambert, to report, and also to prepare orders for the
relief of those who sustained loss by the fire at Peterborough, conformable to the orders made for those at Marlborough. |
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21. Order—on report on the petition of John Clarke of Edmondsbury, Suffolk [see 16 March 1655]—that the most convenient way
of granting the petition will be an order on the Exchequer for
payment of 185l. to Clarke, when he pays in the assessments. |
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22. Approval of an augmentation by the Trustees for Maintenance
of Ministers of 20l. to Thos. Hutchinson, minister of Colby, co.
Lincoln, the Committee for reformation of the Universities having
formerly granted 40l. to the minister of Colby. Approved 4 Dec. |
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23. Order—on a report on the arrears due to Col. Ant. Rous
[see 4 Nov. 1656]—that the Admiralty Commissioners require the
Navy Treasurer to pay him 300l. Approved 11 Dec. Annexing, |
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10, 10. i. Report alluded to, signed by Desborow and Jones, that
he served as Admiralty Commissioner and as judge for
probate of wills from 1 April 1654 to 1 April 1655; that
the other judges have 300l. a year allowed, and that he
should have the same. [2 papers.] |
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10. ii. Certificate by Mark Cottle, registrar of the Court of Probates,
that he delivered notes, in Feb. 1654–5 of arrears unpaid
to Manley, Rous, Lucy, and Hildesley, when ½ a year was
due to Rous, and he has not been paid since, 12 Nov.
1656. [½ page.] |
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10. iii., iv. Certificate of the time of his service as an Admiralty
Commissioner by Rob. Blackborne, secretary, 28 Nov.
1656. [2 copies.] |
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24. Order that—whereas the Admiralty Commissioners contracted
last May with Capt. John Child for 5,000l. in French money, equal
to 22,000 French crowns, which by Order of Council of 27 May last
he might transport custom free, but has only transported 9,000
crowns, and begs leave to transport the residue in pieces of 8, and on
a report of the Admiralty Commissioners thereon—he be allowed to
transport the said pieces custom free. Annexing, |
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11. Report of the Admiralty Commissioners alluded to, stating
that the money was to buy canvas for the use of the navy,
4 Nov. 1656. [2/3 page.] |
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25. The petition to the Protector of several doctors of physic in
Scotland, for letters patent to erect and constitute a college of
physicians in Edinburgh of learned and experienced men, and to
endow it with like privileges, &c., to those enjoyed by the College
of Physicians in London, referred to Mulgrave, Lambert, and Lisle,
to send for Dr. Wright and other experienced physicians, consult,
and report. |
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26. The Admiralty Commissioners to order the Ordnance officers
at the Tower to give out of the stores 600 bandoleers to Capt. Hen.
Smith, for the forces he raised in co. Oxford. Approved 23 Dec. |
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27. Council to meet again to-morrow afternoon. |
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28. Approval by the Protector of orders of 16 Sept. and 28 Oct.
[I. 77, pp. 536–545.] |
| Dec. 3. |
12. Petition of Christian Paul Santen and John Leemknell, merchants of London, to the Protector. We thank you for referring our
petition for relief to the Committee for Preservation of Customs, who,
considering our great losses and damage, ordered the Customs' Commissioners to repay us 390l., but they say they cannot do so,
because their hands are tied by you concerning disposal of money.
We beg a Privy Seal for payment, or license to import French wines,
to be discounted to the same sum. With reference 15 Jan. 1655–6
to Privy Council. [1 sheet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Order confirming that of the Commissioners for Preservation of
Customs of 26 July 1655, about the prize wines brought in by the
St. Jacob of Rostock, and cleared in the Admiralty Court,—directing
repayment of 390l. customs, the owner paying customs for so much
of the wines as then remained,—and ordering payment by the
present Commissioners of Customs. Approved 23 Dec. [I. 77,
pp. 548, 585.] |
| Dec. 3. |
13. Statement by Sir John Barkstead to Council. Much of the
prize plate and silver lately brought from Portsmouth by Capt. Lloyd,
could not be valued without assay, being either wrought plate
or unmarked; I have conferred with Sir Thos. Vyner and Edw.
Backwell, who viewed it, and made an offer for it, taking all charge
of melting. I have also heard Capt. Hen. Sharpe, Sam Bartlett, and
Thos. Burgh (or Birch), authorized by you to value it, and, according
to your orders, I offer my opinion of the prices to be offered, viz.:— |
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s. |
d. |
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Wrought plates, per oz. |
4 |
8½ |
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Small bars and cakes unmarked, but better than
standard, per oz. |
5 |
4 |
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In the sugar loaves or pina silver 18 ozs. on every 40 lbs. should
be allowed for the waste occasioned by the quicksilver. [1 sheet.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Order thereon that the said parcel be delivered to Vyner and
Backwell at the said rates, and that Barkstead consider what should
be done if water have got into the pina silver, that it may not be
cast into the weight. [I. 77, p. 549.] |
| Dec. 3. |
14. Petition of Clement Hillyard to the Protector and Council.
My husband is in Jamaica, as surgeon to Capt. Jones' troop, and left
his pay to be received by me every 4 months, for our 3 small children,
but enlisting suddenly under Capt. Loyen, he was not in the
Portsmouth list, though a later list attests his service. His
Highness, knowing my former sufferings at Crowland, co. Lincoln,
spoke to Col. Sydenham to do me right. I beg receipt of what is
due to my husband, and the signing of my letter of attorney.
[1 page.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Order thereon that Fras, Hodges, treasurer for the Jamaica
forces, pay her 4 months' pay as ordered to the wives of those
entered on the muster roll at Portsmouth. [I. 77, p. 553.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Declaration by his Highness and Council for continuing the Army
Committee. Whereas, in pursuance of the 27th Article of Govern
ment, his Highness and Council ordered an assessment of 60,000l. a
month for 6 months, from 25 Dec. 1656, to be issued on orders of
the Army Committee, it is ordered that the Army Committee
appointed 28 Jan. 1653–4 be continued, and execute the said order.
Also that the directions given in the last Ordinance for disposal of
the said assessments be observed in reference to all moneys
appointed for the army before 24 June 1657, and be observed by
the Treasurers-at-war, collectors, receivers, &c. Approved 4 Dec.
[I. 77, pp. 553, 561, 940–1.] |
| Dec. 3. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
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2. Order—on petition of the well-affected inhabitants of Barnstaple for an augmentation to their minister, Nath. Mather—that
the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle an augmentation
of 100l. a year on him. Approved 23 Dec. |
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3. Order—on petition of Geo. Wilson, minister of Elsenham, co.
Essex, that he formerly enjoyed an augmentation of 50l. a year
from the rectory of Great Dummow, sequestered for the recusancy of
Lady Lake, who is now dead, and the augmentation determined—
that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle another fit
augmentation on him instead. Approved 23 Dec. |
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5. Order on report on the petition of Sarah Vincent [see 1 Nov.
1656] that the Major-General and Commissioners for the peace in
Durham require [Ant.] Lapthorne to account for the whole profits
of Sedgfield rectory above 200l. a year, pay Mrs. Vincent 247l. 8s. 0d.,
and certify as to the rest of the profits. Approved 23 Dec. |
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15. Report of Maj.-Gen. Rob. Lilburne to the effect of the above
order, adding that, in case of Lapthorne's refusing
obedience, the rectory should be sequestered, till the profits
beyond 200l. a year are paid. [1 page.] |
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6. Approval of a certificate from the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, of 21 Oct. 1656, for the 60l. a year hitherto granted to the
minister of Patcham, co. Sussex, to be reduced to 40l., and the extra
20l. granted to the minister of Brighthempston, which is an important
market town. Approved by the Protector, 23 Dec. |
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7. A report from the Commissioners on Col. Ralph Weldon's
petition—shewing that on disbanding the forces in Plymouth
garrison in 1647, he paid several sums and gave divers tickets for
discharge of what was owing by officers and soldiers to the poor
inhabitants there, for which proceedings 6,000l. was ordered to him,
but only 2,000l. paid, and he stands engaged by promise for 3,500l.;
and that his accounts should be stated, and the money paid—agreed
to, and the same Commissioners to see Weldon about stating his
accounts, and to consider how the money may best be paid. |
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8. In the order of 20 Nov. last, for payment of 250l. to Mr.
Marsh towards surveying 4 forests and Enfield Chace; the Trustees
for sale of the late King's lands to be empowered to give Marsh a
warrant for the issuing forth thereof, and the quorum of 2 to be
inserted in that order. |
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9. Out of the moneys to be paid on Sir Thos. Vyner and Mr.
Backwell's contract, the salaries of clerks, officers, messengers, and
serjeant-deputies attending Council, to be paid off to last
Michaelmas, as also the money due on bills expended by them. |
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10. In the order of 25 Nov. 1656, for paying Capt. Ben. Gifford's
company of foot after the proportion of 100 men, the words "from
15 Sept. last" to be inserted. |
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11. For supply of the pay of an ensign and corporal in Capt.
Ben. Gifford's conpany, only 96 private soldiers to be mustered, but
the number 100 returned, and the pay of the other 4 to be applied to
the ensign and corporal; the muster master to act accordingly.
Approved 23 Dec. |
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12. The company of foot now at Dover, lately part of Col. Mills'
regiment, to attend the garrison there instead of the company
formerly drawn out from thence, and to receive pay and all other
privileges which the other company enjoyed, and the Army
Committee to act accordingly. |
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13. The troop of horse in Kent, under Capt. Cadwell, to be
disbanded and paid up, and the Army Committee to issue warrants
accordingly. Approved 23 Dec. |
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19. The Treasury Commissioners to be at liberty to pay, out of
the money arising by Sir Thos. Vyner and Mr. Backwell's contract
for prize plate and money, the sums due to members of Council, and
Mr. Thurloe's arrears. |
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25. Order—on a letter from the Commissioners of co. Somerset,
in reply to a reference of Oct. 16, on the petition of Henry
Sydenham, of Chelworthy, to enquire into his case and report, that
they find he has conducted himself peaceably and is worthy of
clemency,—that he and his estate be discharged from all further
proceedings by the Major General and Commissioners. Approved
23 Dec. |
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26. Order—on petition of the merchants concerned in the
Stamboline, fired in the Thames Dec. 1654, on her way to London,
to their great loss by the burning of her cargo, and on a certificate
from the Customs' Commissioners, showing the greatness of the loss
by the burning, blowing up, and purloining of a great part of the
goods, and the damage sustained by the remainder, which, when
weighed and valued by the Customs' Commissioners, and the allowance for damage deducted, are only worth 391l. 4s. 8d., for which
sum they have given bonds, the particulars whereof are annexed—
that the customs and excise be remitted, and the bonds delivered
back to be cancelled. Approved 23 Dec. |
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27. The Treasurer for the decimation tax, co. Chester, to pay to
Col. Croxton 40l., expended in removal of arms, &c., from Liverpool
to Chester Castle, by order of Council. |
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29. To enable Peter Blondeau to coin money after his new
invention, the Trustees at Drury House to put him in possession of
the kitchen, larder, cellars, coach-houses, and other rooms not used,
within a week's time. |
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30. Thos. Simons, chief graver of the Mint and seals, to make
such stamps of the effigy of his Highness, according to the lately
approved draft, as may be useful to Blondeau in his new invention. |
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31. Blondeau to be authorised to put in execution his new way
of coining without molestation, according to former orders. |
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33. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners, out of
the assessment money next coming in, to pay John Blackwell,
junior, and Rich. Deane, War-treasurers, 360,000l. for Army
service. |
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34. Order—on Maj.-Gen. Whalley's paper, certifying that the pay
of the Derbyshire troop under Capt. Roades, for the year ending
24 June 1656, is 1,199l. 13s. 0d., towards which the receivers for
co. Derby have paid 433l., and those for co. Lincoln 67l, leaving
689l. 13s. 0d. still in arrear—that the Receivers of militia money in
co. Derby pay Maj.-Gen. Whalley 423l. 7s. 5d., and those for co.
Leicester 266l. 5s. 7d., to pay off the above troop. |
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35. Maj.-Gen. Whalley empowered to order the Treasurers of militia
money in the counties of his association to pay, out of such surplus
as they may have in hand, such sums as he shall direct, to complete
the pay of the militia troop for co. Warwick, for the year ending
24 June 1656. [I. 77, pp. 545–554.] |
| Dec. 4. |
16. Petition of Hannah Boyce, widow, to Council. Is evicted by
Ralph Blackhall, victualler, from houses in Crooked Lane, London,
which she bought of the State, to her utter ruin. Begs their
hearing of the report of Col. Grosvenor and Major Slater, to whom
the Protector referred the case, and an order to the sheriffs of London
to restore her to possession, and to enjoin Blackhall to satisfy her
costs and damages. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 4. |
Order on report that she bought the houses from the Trustees for
sale of Crown lands, referring the case to the Committee for
removing Obstructions, to enquire if she has been legally ousted
for deficiency of title, and if so, to allow her a reprize; and they are
to meet speedily on this and other business. [I. 77, p. 555.] |
| Dec. 4. |
17. Petition of Jas. Philipps for the inhabitants of co. Cardigan to
the Protector and Council. Our county, being the poorest and least
in the nation, is charged, by the last order for assessment for
60,000l. a month, with 360l., notwithstanding several orders for
taking off ½ our assessments since Dec. 1649. We beg of your
wonted clemency an order to the Army Committee and Treasurers-atwar only to call for ½ thereof. [¾ page.] |
| Dec. 4. |
Order thereon granting the petition for the 6 months beginning
25 Dec. next. Approved in person. [I. 77. p. 555.] |
| Dec. 4. |
18. Petition of the officers of the Cheshire brigade at Worcester to
the Protector, to present their cause to Parliament, that their
arrears in that engagement, being duly stated, may be put into
bonds, and affixed on the army security, and that their 2 months'
pay may be assigned to a fit treasury, fearing else to be frustrated
after spending so much money. [½ page.] |
| Dec. 4. |
Reference thereon in Council to the Lord Deputy and Lord
Lambert, to speak with the officers who presented the petition, and
report. [I. 77, p. 556.] |
| Dec. 4. |
19. Petition of Capt. Geo. Tito, of Poole, to the Protector. Thanks
for your letter to Generals Blake and Montague concerning my
son Thomas, seized and detained at Malaga, promising that if
any Spanish prisoner of quality were taken, my son should be
enlarged upon exchange. Understanding that several have been
taken and brought to England, I beg one of them, that I may
recover my son by an exchange. With reference to Council.
[½ page.] |
Dec. 4.
Whitehall. |
Pres. Lawrence to General Blake. His Highness and Council
beg you to take special care for the release of Thos. Tito, improving
thereto the first prisoner of fit quality, that he may return home,
to the comfort of his relations, who suffer by his restraint. [I. 77,
p. 942.] |
| Dec. 4. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
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1. To write to the Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland,
recommending them to consider Col. Simon Rugely, and give him
a fit employment in Ireland. |
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4*. The order and declaration passed yesterday for continuing
the Army Committee to be printed and published. |
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10. The petition of Wm. Penoyer and company, for leave to ship
forth 80 tons of saltpetre, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners,
to report. |
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12*. On report from Sir John Barkstead and Lieut.-Col. Francis
White, on an order of 7 Aug. 1656, to view the instruments, material,
and counterfeit coin seized by Rich. Pight, clerk of the irons, and
deface them, and for their value and that of the coin to go towards
payment of the 70l. and 83l. ordered him for the seizure and
attendant expenses—that the goods are worth 37l., which they
delivered to Pight, with a press for coining money, formerly stolen
out of the Tower, which, being mostly of brass, is worth 2l.:—order
that the press be continued for the service of the Mint, and delivered
to the proper officers, and Pight be paid 115l. 18s. 0d. out of the Mint
profits by the Warden of the Mint. |
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13*. On report from the Committee on Major Hezekiah Haynes'
petition,—that the office of housekeeper at Hampton Court was
granted by patent to James, Marquis of Hamilton, who in Jan.
1640–1 assigned it to Thos. Smithsby, and the grant was confirmed
by the late King, and allowed by the late Revenue Committee,
and that Smithsby has assigned all his interest to Haynes;—order
that 500l. be paid to Haynes by the Treasury Commissioners, on his
releasing all his interest in the premises. Annexing, |
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20. Report as above alluded to, adding that the office is worth
400l. a year, and that his Highness having promised
Haynes 500l. for it a year ago, he begs allowance thereof.
[1 page.] |
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16. The petition of Elizabeth, widow of Dr. Aylmer, of Claydon,
co. Suffolk, who was decimated at 16l. a year, that on account of
her charge and debts, and his death, the tax may be taken off from
her and her children, referred to Lord Deputy, Jones, Lisle, and
Lambert, to report. |
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17*. That part of the petition of Mary, widow of Maj.Gen. Fortescue, relating to her purchase from the State, and the
arrear half of Lord St. John's composition, referred to the Treasury
Commissioners, to see how the composition stands, and report what
should be done; and that part concerning the services of her
husband in his several capacities referred to the Lord Deputy and
Jones. |
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18. Order on an offer by John Hooke to discover a tenement in
co. Herts, value 40l. a year, belonging to the State by escheat, that
there be allowed him ⅓ of the value of his discovery, and all his
necessary charges therein; the Treasury Commissioners to examine
the discovery. |
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20. Order on reading an order of 12 May 1654,—that the then
Prize Goods' Commissioners should pay James Boswell 1,000l.
towards his debt which has not been paid—that Wolsley, the Lord
Deputy, Desborow, Mulgrave, Jones, and Skippon learn from the
former Prize Goods' Commissioners why it was not paid, and
report. [I. 77, p. 554–561.] |
| Dec. 4. |
20. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. Receipt and transmission of
letters and money. All well at college and here. Parliament is to
continue for a longer time; more Acts have newly come forth. One
is to confer a higher title on him [the Protector]. Thorndike tells
me we shall have a 5th volume [of the Bible], the 4th will take in
the Apocrypha. Private affairs. [2/3 page.] |
Dec. 6/16.
Brussels. |
M. M. Vernatt to [Sec. Thurloe ?]. C. St. [Charles Stuart],
with his sister of Orange, came hither on Thursday in a coach with
6 horses, but a poor retinue. He is lodged in a house of Duke of
Bournanville, at his own charge, for what I can hear. She came to
further a suit about some lands belonging to her son. He I know
not for what, except to keep her company or press something that
concerned him with Duke John, but how welcome may appear by
Duke John's going to Ternuerne, a house 6 miles off, at the news of
his coming, to avoid obligations to use him with ceremony. He is
not overlaid with visits; I never yet saw a coach at his door, and
his levies improve not; they say it is because all imaginable course
is taken in France to hinder more from coming, but they expect
more next year, when armies draw out into the fields. [Extract,
Flanders correspondence, 6/16 Dec. 1656. |
Dec. 6/16.
Paris. |
21. L. Froment to Williamson. Wm. Carbonnel of London wishes
me to pay you at once 655 livres, saying you much need it, and
therefore I send it, though I have not yet received the money, but
deducting 10 livres for the exchange. Pray acknowledge receipt.
[½ page, French.] |
Dec. 7.
Lowther. |
22. Elizabeth, Lady Lowther, to Williamson. Our great distance
from London, and my brother's unsettledness there must excuse delay
in our letters. You press our resolution about my son Tom's exhibition whilst beyond seas with you. I have a great opinion of your
ability and temper, and wish him to be with you, and any reasonable
demand you made for your salary as his governor we should not
have disputed; but by your general demand of 250l. a year for him
and yourself, we think you conceive his future estate more ample
than it is; for at present it is so charged with jointures, and overrun
with debts that it will hardly bear the sum you name, nor should I
desire him to be bred highly, the moderate course being more likely
to advance his studies. I have known more gentlemen return
home "absolute in judgment and knowledge" who spent under
200l. a year, than those that spent double that sum. An overplus
leads to vanity and flattery; but I hope your judgment will help
him to avoid those rocks and others. He should not desire what
would contract his future freedom. He can live more handsomely
in France than here till we arrange his final settlement. Whilst he
is at Saumur I hope 200l. a year will cover all expenses, with more
when you remove; but if you insist on the 250l., I will try to get
my brother's assent, only you must expect no more when you travel.
I am glad you give him so good a character; thanks for your love
and care of him. [1⅓ pages.] |
| Dec. 11. |
23. Petition of Hen. Hayhurst, physician to the army late under
Ferdinando, Lord Fairfax, to the Protector. I served from. 24 Oct.
1642 to 23 Jan. 1645–6, and laid out large sums for physic, but when
Hamilton came into Lancashire with the Scots, they burnt all my
accounts, and threatened to burn my house. I went soon after to
serve in Ireland, but a friend with whom I left my affidavits
neglected to get my accounts stated. Lord Thos. Fairfax requested
the Army Committee to state them, but they said they were forbidden to do it until the army then in being was satisfied. |
|
I beg an order to the Committee for soldiers at Worcester
House to state my accounts, and to the Committee for Accounts of
the soldiery in Ireland to allow of them, and give out debentures,
that I may be paid from rebels' lands in Ireland. With reference to
Privy Council, 27 Nov. 1656. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Order that the Worcester House Committee examine the
accounts by vouchers or oaths, and state them to Council. Approved
in person. [I. 77, p. 566.] |
| Dec. 11. |
24. Petition of John Bull, one of the surveyors of estates forfeited
for treason, to the Council of State. Was authorized with Rich.
Creed and others to survey estates, which they carefully performed.
On 1 June 1654 the trustees for sale of the said estates ordered him
134l. 11s. 0d. salary for 2 years' service, out of the 16,472l. 13s. 0d.
appointed by Parliament for surveyors, messengers, &c., but only
60l. has been paid, and the treasurer refuses to pay the 74l. 11s. 0d.
balance, because of the late order for paying all monies into the
Treasury. Begs an order for payment, having long been ill, being
in debt to the amount, and Mr. Creed, his co-actor, having already
an order for payment. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
24. i. Order referred to for payment to him of 134l. 11s. 0d.,
1 June 1654. With certificate of Jo. Borradale, cashier, that
74l. 11s. 0d. still remains due. 28 May 1657. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 11. |
25. Reference of the above petition to the Treason Trustees.
[¾ page; also I. 77, p. 570.] |
| Dec. 9. |
Approval by the Protector of an order of 27 Nov. [I. 77, p. 561.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1. Wm. Shield's information concerning words spoken against
Lord Claypole by Constable, about Claypole's discharging Warrell,
referred to Wolsley, Lambert, Pickering, Jones, and the Lord Deputy,
to send for whom they will, learn the fact, and report. |
|
2. The heads of a charter prepared by Shephard and the rest of
the Committee for Charters, referred to the Committee of Council
for Charters, to speak with Maj.-Gen. Berry, the governor of
Chepstow, and others, and report; Strickland added to the
Committee. |
|
3. The petition of Thomas, Earl of Berkshire, referred to the
Treasury Commissioners, to receive his proposals concerning
farming the post fines, and report. |
|
4. The petition and appeal of William Lord Cochrane, on behalf
of Esme, Duke of Richmond and Lennox, to be considered next
sitting. |
|
5. The Maj.-General and Commissioners for co. Durham to order
that from the overplus profit of Sedgfield rectory, beside the 200l.
a year ordered to Ant. Lapthorne, incumbent, and 247l. 8s.
ordered to Sarah Vincent, 200l. a year be allowed to the new
college at Durham, to maintain two itinerant ministers to preach
the Gospel thereabouts. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
7. Order on a certificate on the petition of Lady Mary Vere
[see 15 July 1656]—that Sir Rob. Tracy holds the reversion of
Frawnton Manor, after Lady Vere, who has long had 500l. therefrom, and that this sum was reprized to Sir Robert in the taxing of
the manor—that the estate be discharged from the tax during Lady
Vere's life, and all proceedings against her thereupon be forborne.
Approved 23 Dec. Annexing, |
|
26.Certificate by the County Commissioners alluded to,
Gloucester, 15 July 1656; 5 signatures. [1 page.] |
|
9. Approval of an augmentation of 14l. a year by the Trustees
for Maintenance of Ministers to John Patrick, minister of Brixworth,
co. Northampton, the Committee for Reformation of the Universities
having settled the same on Sam. Bagley, late minister, who has now
left. Approved by the Protector, 23 Dec. |
|
10. The petition of Ambrose Moston, minister of the Gospel in
Wales, referred to Wolsley, Jones, and Strickland, to report. |
|
11. The petition of Roger Lord Broghill referred to Wolsley, to
present it to his Highness, that such orders may be given in the
matter prayed as in his wisdom he thinks fit. |
|
12. Order on certificate from the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers of 18 Nov. 1656—that the Committee for Plundered
Ministers granted an augmentation of 10l. a year to the minister of
Earl's Barton, co. Northampton, out of the impropriate rectory of
that place, then under sequestration, and that after the sequestration
failed, they continued it, and now think that it, with 10l. a year
added, would be a fit sum for Mr. Kendrick, the present minister
—that Council approves the same, and orders 20l. a year to be paid
him accordingly. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
13. The several augmentations certified by the Trustees for
Maintenance of Ministers, and not already approved, referred to
Lambert, Pickering, Strickland, and the Lord Deputy, to report. |
|
His Highness present. |
|
14. The petition signed by Rich. Eccleston and James Rand, and
others "desirous in some measure of the good of the nation,"
referred to President Lawrence, Lambert, the Lord Deputy, Lisle,
Rous, Mulgrave, Jones, Pickering, and Strickland, to consult with fit
persons, and report. |
|
15.* To recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to
settle an augmentation of 25l. on Giles Foreman, minister of
Shalford, co. Essex, beside the 25l. already granted. |
|
16.* Also an augmentation of 50l. on Geo. Peirce, minister of
North Curry, co. Somerset, and see it speedily paid. |
|
17. The petition and papers of Geo. Pitt, of Strathfieldsay, co.
Hants, referred to Jones, Desborow, and Sydenham, to speak with
the Commissioners for co. Dorset, and report. |
|
18. The stamp and superscription on one side of the money to be
coined according to Blondeau's new invention to be according to the
form now brought in, instead of that formerly agreed on. |
|
19. Sydenham and Jones to speak with Mr. Hussey about getting
100l. a year settled on Joanna, relict of Maj.-Gen. Robt. Sedgwick,
out of Mr. Mason's estate, according to a former order of his
Highness and Council. |
|
21. Order on report from the Treasury Commissioners that they
think the following allowances fit for Edw. Birkhead, serjeant-atarms, viz.:— |
|
|
£ |
s.
|
d.
|
|
For provision of necessaries for the Houses of
Parliament and Committees, from 17 Sept.
to 7 Dec. 1656 |
100 |
0 |
0 |
|
To be distributed as wages to the 14 servants
attending Parliament |
140 |
0 |
0 |
|
For bringing up the Quakers from Bristol |
26 |
18 |
8 |
|
Total |
266 |
18 |
8 |
|
To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay it him
accordingly. |
|
22.* The Exchequer Commissioners in Scotland to pass a
precept in due form, requiring John Baynes, receiver-general of the
revenue in Scotland, to pay the English Exchequer 10,000l. out of
property and casualty revenues. |
|
23.* Out of the above, when received, the Treasury Commissioners
to pay 2,000l. to Capt. John Leverett towards satisfaction of his
Highness' privy seal letters, directed to the Treasury Commissioners
for payment of 4,482l. 3s. 11½d. to Leverett, for his payments about
the fort taken from the French in America. |
|
24. Order on report from the Admiralty Commissioners—that
as commanded they have ordered in several vessels belonging to
the Channel and Irish coasts to refit, and have bought several
quantities of naval stores on promise of ready money, whereof part
is already due on bills of exchange on the Navy Treasurer, and for
settlement of which 30,000l. will be wanted, beside the present
receipts from custom and excise—to advise an order to the Treasury
Commissioners to pay Hutchinson 26,000l. out of the money coming
in on Vyner and Backwell's contract for prize plate. |
|
25. To advise a like order to pay 4,000l. to John Maidstone,
steward of his Highness' household, that he may repay it to
the Navy Treasurer, who lent it him for his Highness' household
expenses. |
|
26.* Order on report from the Admiralty Commissioners of the
account from the postmaster at Portsmouth, for his charges in
entertaining Don Diego de Villa Alva and Monsieur del Plato, and
their 6 servants, and their expenses up to London, amounting to
53l. 3s. 6d., and that they consider it excessive;—that the same
Committee try to get some reduction, and give order for payment. |
|
27. The report from the Admiralty Commissioners that more
victuals must be supplied for Gen. Blake's fleet, to enable it to
remain on the Spanish coast, their last provisions expiring next
February, referred to Lambert, Desborow, Sydenham, Jones, and
Pickering, to consult with the Admiralty Commissioners, and report
what provisions should be sent. |
|
28.* Order on report from the Admiralty Commissioners, on
reference on the petition of Wm. Pennoyer, merchant, and company,
that the Customs' Commissioners allow him to export 60 tons of
saltpetre to any port at peace with this Commonwealth. |
|
29. Order—on a report from the Admiralty Commissioners, of
the defects of the Round White Tower at Portsmouth, and the need
of speedy repair—that the said Commissioners consider what should
be done, estimate the charge, and report. Annexing, |
|
27. Report alluded to, stating that the charge will be much greater
by delay, and that the Tower, being in the very narrow of
the river, is a great safeguard to ships, and begging
directions to the governor for its repair. 9 Dec. 1656.
[2/3 page.] |
|
30.* Order—on a report from the Committee of Council on Gen.
Montague's bills for apparel, &c., for Marquis Badix and his brother
[Spanish prisoners]—that 300l. be paid him from Council's contingencies to discharge the bills, and put some money into their
purses. Annexing, |
|
28. Report alluded to, signed by Desborow and Strickland.
[¾ page.] |
|
28. i. Bills of 52l. 13s. for their clothes, swords, coach hire, &c.
[Scrap.] |
|
28. ii. Bill of 214l. 16s. for bed, bedding, and furniture, addressed
to Sir Gilbert Pickering. Noted that they should be allowed some spending money. [Scrap.] |
|
32. Wm. Holt's petition, and the papers annexed, concerning a
legacy from Sir Paul Pindar, referred to the Committee on the other
petition concerning the estates of Wm. Toomes, a felon of himself,
to report. |
|
33.* The petition of Capt. Ben. Blake, for Capt. Sydrach Blake,
now prisoner in Spain, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to
procure his liberty by exchange of any fit Spanish prisoner, the late
governor of Havannah excepted. |
|
34. The petition of Wm. Tills, surgeon's mate in Col. Okey's
regiment of horse, for 32 days' pay said to be in arrear, referred to
the Army Committee, to report. |
|
36. Jones, Strickland, Lisle, Sydenham, and Lambert to consider
Mrs. Blunt's case, and report. |
|
37. The petition of divers poor widows and servants of the late
King referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to report. |
|
41. To advise his Highness to allow Robt. Browne, consul at
Algiers, a salary of 400l. above the profits of consulage, to be paid
in England, with arrears, while he officiates there, and to order the
Treasury Commissioners to pay his assignees what Thurloe shall
certify to be due to him after that proportion, for his arrears to last
Michaelmas. |
|
42. The petition of divers well-affected inhabitants of the city
and suburbs of Gloucester, with a narrative annexed—that 10,000l.
worth of forfeited lands in Ireland may be set out to them towards
repaying their losses, according to an Act of Parliament recited in
the petition—referred to the Committee on Irish affairs, to report. |
|
43.* Sir Henry Vane to be discharged from imprisonment in the
Isle of Wight, and allowed to go to his house at Belton, co. Lincoln.
With warrant to the governor of the Isle of Wight accordingly.
[I. 114, p. 52.] |
|
44.* Chris. Feake to be set at liberty. With like warrant.
[I. 114, p. 53.] |
|
45.* John Rogers to be discharged from his imprisonment in the
Isle of Wight. With warrant to the governor accordingly. [I 114,
p. 53.] |
|
47. Approval by the Protector of an order of 2 Dec. [I. 77, pp.
561–571.] |
| Dec. 11. |
Order in Council,—on consideration of the means appointed for
bringing in the assessments and disposing of them for the use of the
forces, it appearing advisable to pay therewith some of the forces in
the counties where the assessment was raised, as they cannot be
removed to Guildhall, London, before they are issued forth to the
said forces, without manifest prejudice to the forces, and to the
affairs of the Commonwealth,—that the Army Committee act, with
regard to paying the forces in England, Scotland, and Ireland from
the 6 months' assessment from 25 Dec., and to getting in the said
assessment as former Committees have acted, and as seems to them
meet and convenient for their present payment; and the receivers
of the various counties are hereby required to obey their orders for
the satisfying of such warrants on the War Treasurers as the
Committee shall issue. Also that the receivers-general for the
assessments take from the receivers of the counties the warrants
they have satisfied in accordance with this order, and give receipts
for them as if so much ready money of the said assessments had
been paid by them to the Receivers-general of the whole assessment.
All sums which the Receivers-general receive from the assessment,
either in cash or as above, shall go towards the 360,000l. appointed
to be paid them as War Treasurers, out of the Exchequer, by his
Highness' warrant under Privy Seal of 11 Dec., till the full sum be
made up. |
|
Also that John Backwell, junr., and Rich. Deane, when they, as
War-treasurers, receive any part of the 6 months' assessment shall,
as receivers-general for the whole assessment, take discharge by
tallies for the said sums, which tallies shall signify their payment
of the sums into the Exchequer in part or in full of the said
assessment. The Exchequer officers to observe this order accordingly, any former order, declaration, or matter to the contrary
notwithstanding. Approved in person. [I. 77, pp. 561–571, 943.] |
| Dec. 11. |
29. Edw. Norris to Williamson. I have received my goods,
money, and all the things named in your letter. I have also
received your bill, and will discharge it as soon as possible. [Scrap,
French.] |
Dec. 12.
Exeter Gaol. |
30. Christ. Turner to Robt. Blackborne. Thanks for the [Admiralty] Commissioners' civil answer. I cannot contradict Mr.
Sommers' letter to their honours, having no letters from the other
side. There are here at present 18 prisoners, viz., 2 masters,
3 seamen, 12 soldiers, and myself; 8 of the best seamen escaped
last month, and 5 more yesterday night, viz., Capt. Ensom,
Capt. Codd, Walsh, Williams, and Marks, the surgeon. The few
that remain are of little esteem, the major part being poor soldiers. |
|
If the Commissioners will grant an exchange, it will be a great
comfort to the prisoners of both sides, and give me liberty to go on
parole to Biscay, to set at liberty Wm. Cooke, Thos. Templeman,
Chas. Yeo, or John Cutt. If I fail, I will return to the prison at
Exeter, on the word of a Christian and a soldier. Last year I
procured liberty to Capts. Country and Stafford, on my parole, which
I have never broken. |
|
As long as France is in peace, I am no enemy, as my wife is a
native, myself a subject, and my children and all that I have
residing in Port Louis. [1 page.] |
Dec. 13.
London. |
31. Hen. Hyrne to [Viscount Conway]. Private business. Payment of moneys. Mr. Finch writes that a friend has got his carabine
into his hands. He sends you 2 pairs of tweezers, and my lady an
Indian waistcoat. I have received the French news, but my lady
desires to see it. I will send you the news book by Rob. Hemming.
[1 page.] |
| Dec. 13. |
Approval by the Protector of 2 orders of 27 Nov., presented by
Jessop. [I. 77, p. 571.] |
Dec. 13.
[Edmond's] Bury. |
32. Thos. Barret to [Sec. Thurloe]. Though I am almost useless
by my present privacy, yet I am diligent for you. I went to Suffolk
to see an acquaintance of the old party, to try if I could sift anything, as it borders on their most eminent coast for designs from
abroad, but none have any thought of a plot, but expect what
[Charles Stuart] can do by open force. |
|
Lately discontented expressions fell from a Presbyterian M.P.
who was not permitted to sit in the House. I think his name is
Shuttleworth. He advised a cousin to lay in arms and horses, and
be in readiness. |
|
There has been a great private meeting of Presbyterian parsons,
and gentlemen, where this M.P. was present, but since the proclamation, all [Charles Stuart's] agents are dispersed, so until that is
expired, I shall be unable to serve you. |
|
That you may see how really I deal, I send you part of your
doctor's letter, just received, also the enclosed from the old messenger, which I have marked with the true names. I beg instructions
from time to time. I will advise you of whatever comes over or stirs
among them, and return to service when the proclamation is expired. |
|
P.S.—I send you one of the libels dispersed in the country, which
do no great good, nor much harm. [2 pages.] |
Dec. 15.
Tynemouth Castle. |
33. Capt. Jo. Topping to the Admiralty Commissioners. I am
sorry to give so much trouble about the release of Wm. Clerke, but
I am much importuned by his friends, he being in a sad condition.
Pray order the release of Brookes, late quarter-master to Capt.
Tyssen, who is in the custody of the bailiffs of Scarborough, and I
will see that Clerke has his liberty first. There is here a Mrs.
Fenwick, widow of Capt. Fenwick, who first kept Tynemouth
Castle against Parliament. Upon Sir Thos. Liddell's being appointed
governor by the late King, the Earl of Newcastle gave Capt. Fenwick
a command in his army, and he was slain in Yorkshire. When the
Scots took the Castle, Mrs. Fenwick was turned out, and the profits
of the sea lights on the tower, which is 4d. for every ship that
anchors in the river, were enjoyed by Col. Geo. Fenwick and Capt.
Blount, the successive governors, and then came to Mrs. Fenwick
again. As she continues as cavalierly and malignant as ever, I am
much blamed for continuing to her the profits of the sea lights.
I beg your directions therein. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 16. |
34. Petition of Rich. Parry, gentleman, of Llandedr, co. Denbigh, to
the Protector. Living in the quarters of the late King, I was drawn
by youth and indiscretion to join his party, and therefore doubt my
freedom to practice as clerk or attorney—my only means of subsistence. But laying hold of the indulgence of your late declaration
for real converts, I present certificates of my demeanour, and beg
leave to exercise my profession. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
34. i. Certificate to his good conduct by Wm. Jones and other
ministers, &c., of co. Denbigh. [1 page.] |
|
34. ii. Like certificate by John Carter and 5 others. 2 Dec. 1656.
[1 page.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Order thereon in Council allowing him to exercise his profession,
the Maj.-General and Commissioners for the peace to permit the
same accordingly. Approved 23 Dec. [I. 77, p, 572.] |
| Dec. 16. |
35. Petition of William, Earl Marshal of Scotland, to the Protector.
There is 90l. arrears due to me of the pension of 5l. weekly, settled
on me from Council's contingencies. You have given other pensioners
warrants to be paid from the Exchequer for their greater security,
and I beg the same, and also a warrant for my arrears. With
reference thereon to Council, 4 Dec. 1656. [3 pages.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Order thereon in Council to advise a warrant to the Treasury
Commissioners for the arrears due, to be certified by Mr. Frost.
[I. 77, p. 577.] |
| [Dec. 16.] |
36. Petition of the colonels and other officers of the brigade of foot
raised in co. Chester for the late engagement at Worcester, to
Maj.-Gen. Lambert. Their case, as to their 2 months' pay for the
said engagement, and their arrears for former service, was presented
to the Speaker of the last Parliament, by the Protector's letter of
21 Oct. last, and the security intended for the present army requested
for the petitioners; but as many of their friends were discontinued from
Parliament, nothing was done before the resignation of their power
to his Highness, who has since referred the case to his great Council,
and the Lord President has ordered the petition to be entered.
There are 4 forests reserved in the Act for sale, as security for the
army. Also the treasurers of co. Herts are to pay in arrears of the
monthly assessment of that county to the Army Treasurers before
10 April next. Beg a hearing of their petition, payment of the
2 months' pay, and their arrears, from the said forests, and from
the arrears of the said assessments. [2/3 page.] Annexing, |
|
36. i. Report thereon by the Army Committee, to whom the
petition was referred by an order from a Committee of
Council of 24 April 1654, that a month's pay for the
said brigade amounts to 609l. 4 May, 1654. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Order on report by the Committee of Council thereon, to
advise his Highness to recommend Parliament, by a letter to
Mr. Speaker, to satisfy the petitioners their arrears. [I. 77, p. 578.]
Annexing, |
|
37. Report alluded to, signed by Lambert and Fleetwood.
[2/3 page.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Order—on petition of the inhabitants of Warminster, co.
Wilts, shewing that the late Committee for Plundered Ministers
allowed 50l. a year augmentation to Mr. Woodward, minister of the
parish, which the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers have
reduced to 20l.; also that the parish consists of 600 families, and is
a great market town, and that 32l. arises from the impropriate
rectory there, and the vicarage profit is but 40l. a year—that the
Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle an additional augmentation of 22l. on Rich. Blake, the present minister, payable out of
the rectory. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
3. Order—on petition of Ben. Dukes, vicar of South Petherton,
co. Somerset, and several certificates, shewing it to be a market
town of 300 families, with a lecture appointed to be given every
market day weekly, and the vicarage to be worth but 60l. a year,
whereunto an augmentation of 80l. was added for Mr. Bennet,
former minister—that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers be
advised to settle an augmentation of 30l. on Dukes. Approved
23 Dec. |
|
4. Order—on petition of Henry Williams, for himself and other
inhabitants of Clirow, co. Radnor, shewing that the minister there,
Rich. Swayne, has only 70l. a year, though the parish is large and
populous—that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle an
augmentation of 30l. a year on him. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
5. The petition of Thos. Horth, for himself and other merchants,
owners of the Report, sunk by the Ruby frigate in Jan. 1653–4,
referred to Jones, Desborow, Mulgrave, Strickland, and Wolsley, to
report. |
|
6. The question whether a Committee should consider a proposal
for sending 30,000l. to Ireland for the forces out of Spanish prize
plate money negatived. |
|
7. Also the question whether 20,000l. should be sent into Ireland,
out of the said prize money. |
|
8. Sydenham, Lord Deputy, Strickland, Desborow, Jones, and
Lisle, to consider how best 20,000l. may be raised for Ireland. |
|
9. Order—on report from the Committee on the Admiralty Commissioners' report on provisions for the fleet under Blake—that the
said Commissioners be empowered to order 4 months' victuals for
5,580 men. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
12, 13. A report from the Committee on several petitions concerning the late estate of Wm. Toomes, felo-de-se, referred to
Fiennes, Commissioner Widrington, and Nat. Bacon, to consider the
justice of the claims, the reports made, and advise what should be
done; all papers to be sent them, and they particularly to consider
the writings concerning Toomes' real estate, claimed by the heir-atlaw. |
|
14. The 200l. ordered on 18 July last to be paid out of Toomes'
estate, which was lately in Maj.-Gen. Worsley's hands, to be
reserved undisposed of till the referees shall report. |
|
18. A year's salary having been voted to the executor of Worsley
Maj.-General of cos. Lancaster, Chester, and Stafford, Col. Tobias
Bridges, now Major General, is to see that 666l. 13s. 4d. be paid to
his widow, Dorothy Worsley, out of the militia money. Approved
23 Dec. |
|
19. Lambert, the Lord Deputy, Lisle, and Desborow, to speak
with such of the Council in Scotland as are now in town, concerning several matters this day mentioned as necessary speedily to be
provided, in reference to public affairs, and to report. |
|
20. The petition and papers of the Company of Drapers, Tailors,
Mercers, Hardwaremen, Coopers, and Chandlers, of Gateshead, co.
Durham, for confirmation of their former charter from the late
Bishop of Durham, referred to Mr. Beck and the rest of the Committee on Charters, to prepare a draft charter fit to present to his
Highness. |
|
21. Any 3 of Council to consider the paper entitled, "A charge
against the Master and Wardens of Dulwich College," to send for
witnesses, learn the truth herein, and report. |
|
22. Order—on certificate from Dr. Owen and Mr. Caryll, on Rich.
Owen's petition, that they find him fit to be referred to the
Committee for Approbation of Public Preachers to obtain again
liberty to preach—that he be so referred. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
23. Lambert, Lord Deputy, Pickering, Strickland, and Mulgrave,
to speak with Sir Tim. Tyrell about Dr. Usher's library, and report
what should be done. |
|
24. Order—on certificate of Mr. Bodurda that, according to
several orders of Parliament and Council, the records of the Court
of Common Bench are removed from the room over the Parliament
House into that near Westminster Hall, called the Fish-room,
which Embree has fitted with shelves, &c., at a cost of 52l. 10s. 8d.
—to advise an order that Embree's bill be paid, and pass the
Privy Seal gratis. |
|
27. The petition of Hester, widow of Dr. Bethun, for her right
to farms, duties, and customs of the King's Barnes' lands in the
Sheriffdom of Fife in Scotland, referred to any two of the Council
in Scotland now in London, to report. |
|
29. The report concerning the Dutch ship Daniel to be considered
on Dec. 18. |
|
30. Council to meet in the afternoon, and the members desired to
be present. [I. 77, pp. 572–578.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
[President Lawrence] to Maj.-Gen. John Desborow. His Highness
and Council hearing that money has been collected for the sufferers
by the fire at Marlborough in 1653, and not paid in to the appointed
treasurers, we desire you to see it so paid in before Jan. 1, 1656–7, or
report the defaulters; we enclose the names of some who are certified
to have some such money in their hands in your association. |
|
|
|
£ |
s.
|
d.
|
|
Devon |
Thos. Copplestons, constable of the hundred, near Bideford, or else Mr. Heard or John Blagden, that was receiver general |
28 |
7 |
6 |
|
Near Tiverton, James Allen of Barnstaple received of Mr. Buckfeild |
13 |
0 |
0 |
|
Cornwall |
Oliver Edwards, in St. Dennis |
0 |
10 |
0 |
|
Capt. Francis Vyvian, for Liskard |
3 |
14 |
0 |
|
Dorset |
John Trottle, within 2 miles of Blandford |
0 |
13 |
0 |
|
[I. 77, p. 947.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
Like letter to Maj.-Gen. Berry, the defaulters in his association
being— |
|
|
|
£ |
s.
|
d.
|
|
Salop |
Anth. Shirley, high constable of Weston, within 4 miles of Shrewsbury |
1 |
10 |
0 |
|
Montgomery |
Darby Feller, high constable of Ben Weston, within 2 miles of Welshpool about |
1 |
17 |
0 |
|
[I. 77, p. 947.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
Like letter to Maj.-Gen. Chas. Howard, the defaulters in his
association being— |
|
|
|
£ |
s.
|
d. |
|
Westmorland |
Thos. Booth, of Deanes-biggin, near Kirby Lonsdale |
2 |
16 |
6 |
|
John Thwaite, of Appleby |
6 |
1 |
7 |
|
Northumberland |
Thos. Swann, late churchwarden of St. Nicholas, Newcastle |
23 |
10 |
0 |
|
Edw. Bembridge, late churchwarden of Allhallows parish, Newcastle |
23 |
10 |
0 |
|
John Nicholson, Thos. Ewbanks, Robt. Kirkhouse, and Wm. Gibson, churchwardens of St. John's parish, Newcastle, about 6l. or 8l. |
|
|
|
|
[I. 77, pp. 947–8.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
Like letter to Maj.-Gen. Boteler, his defaulters being— |
|
|
|
£ |
s.
|
d. |
|
Huntingdon |
Rich. Barber, churchwarden of Allhallows and St. John's parish, Huntingdon, about |
7 |
0 |
0 |
|
Chas. Lambe and Thos. Besley, churchwardens there, and Rich. Willows, assistant |
1 |
15 |
0 |
|
[I. 77, p. 948.] |
Dec. 16.
Whitehall. |
Like letter to Maj.-Gen. Goffe; defaulters— |
|
|
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|
Berks |
Mr. Bateman, of Reading, about |
100 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hants |
Obadiah Fuller, of Penton
Crafton |
4 |
13 |
7 |
|
[I. 77, p. 948.] |
| Dec. 16. |
Like letter to Maj.-Gen. Hacker; defaulter— |
|
|
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|
Oxford |
Thos. Dennis, of Oxford |
18 |
0 |
0 |
|
[I. 77, p. 948.] |
| Dec. 17. |
38. Petition of Thomas, younger son, and Jane and 4 other daughters
of John Penruddock, convict, to the Protector. Having lost our father,
we have no subsistence but the charity of a distressed mother, or of
an encumbered infant brother, laden with debts. We beg you not
to entail the extremity of justice, but to grant us the worth of
Hechleton farm, belonging to our father, value 400l., which will be
the best part of our portions. With reference, 8 Dec. 1656, to
Privy Council. Endorsed, "Their father was beheaded for acting in
the last treasonable engagement." "My lord Rich, out of charity,
desires his name may be offered in behalf of these distressed
parties." [1½ pages.] |
| Dec. 17. |
Order thereon, that the Treasury Commissioners examine what
has become of the real estate, what has been received from it, and
whether there be any provision for the children, and report.
[I. 77, p. 579.] |
| Dec. 17. |
39. Petition of Adrian Scrope to the Protector. Having served the
late King in the wars, I am liable to the late proclamation should I
stay in town. I have no habitation, but have built a house near
Lincoln, have lately buried my father, and am engaged in 3 lawsuits, which require my personal attendance, all my counsel being
resident in town. I beg an order to remain. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 17. |
Order allowing him to remain, the late proclamation notwithstanding. [I. 77, p. 579.] |
| Dec. 17. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
40. 2. The 200l. ordered 15 Feb. last to Vice-Adm. Badiley for his
disbursements for and in his expedition to be over and above his pay. |
|
3. The petition of Elizabeth, Anne, Frances, Mary, and Martha,
daughters of Francis Finch, of Rushock, co. Worcester, to be considered on Dec. 23. |
|
5. Order on that of 15 July last, in the case of Mary Spearing,
that the clerks of Council cast up the interest, and insert it and the
principal into the order, which is to be sealed with the Council's
seal. Annexing, |
|
41. Note that the Trustees refuse to admit the former order, because
the bill is not named particularly, the interest not set
down, and the order not signed and sealed. [⅓ page.] |
|
41. i. Note that the bill is in the name of Dorothy Blake, and came
to Mr. Spearing by assignation; with calculations of
interest, total 189l. 14s. 3d. [3 pages.] |
|
7. The report on the petition of Capt. Peter Whitty, citizen of
London, shewing his faithful services by sea and land, for which he
is in arrear a considerable amount, and that his uncle, Rich. Whitty,
was seized in fee of the Manor House of Ballitege and 1,000 acres
belonging, whereof, although he is blind, impotent, and 75 years old,
he is dispossessed, though he was never in arms—referred to the
Lord Deputy and Council of Ireland, to grant the petitioner a lease
of the said manor house and lands, according to the rules in the
commission now to be offered to his Highness, authorizing the Lord
Deputy and Council of Ireland to let leases of lands in Ireland;
and if they find any equity in the petitioner's case, to consider it in
the rent, and the Lord Deputy to be written to accordingly.
Approved 23 Dec. |
|
9. Order on a report from the Admiralty Commissioners, with an
extract of a letter from Capt. Mackey, commander of the Yarmouth
frigate, come lately from Bordeaux, with several ships under his charge
—relating the hard usage of the English merchants by the Governor
of Blay Castle, in extorting several sums from the masters of English
ships, besides imprisoning their persons on pretence of their not
saluting the Castle, or not doing it in the right place, contrary to the
capitulations of the peace—that the extract be delivered to Mr.
Secretary, to speak to the French Ambassador about the matter. |
|
10. A report from the Committee on a paper from the Commissioners for managing estates under sequestration, concerning the
salaries of themselves and officers from 25 March 1655 to 24 June
1656, and a list of the said Commissioners, their officers and salaries,
referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to speak with the said Commissioners concerning the time of their actual employment and that
of their officers, and see what different consideration in point of time
or salary may be had as to any of them, and report. |
|
11. The petition of John Dawes referred to the Maj.-General and
Commissioners of co. Surrey, to speak with him about a composition
for the extraordinary tax laid on his estate, and report. |
|
12. Next Tuesday Council to consider the extraordinary tax
imposed for securing the peace of the Commonwealth. |
|
13. The petition of Andrew, Robert, and John Henley read, and
to be considered next Tuesday. |
|
14. The report from Lord Commissioner Widdrington and Maj.Gen. Charles Howard, on the case of Lady Dorothy Howard and her
children, to be considered first at the next meeting of Council.
[I. 77, pp. 579–582.] |
Dec. 17.
The Essex, Downs. |
42. Capt. Wm. Whitehorne to the Admiralty Commissioners. Particulars of ships. I will send the 5 prisoners named before by
Capt. Rooth; he has brought me here Edw. Cotterell, who entered
himself on the Merlin 6 weeks ago, and had a design to surprise the
frigate at Flushing, while the Dartmouth took the vessels bound for
Rotterdam; but Capt. Ford having notice, took him and the fellow
who had betrayed the matter on to the Dartmouth, where Cotterell
was put in irons, and so he still remains. He is an old Cavalier, and
an imperious, impudent fellow. What shall I do with him ? He is
of too malignant a spirit to abide here. |
|
I have sent 2 ships to convoy vessels for the north, and in their
return, to annoy the enemy's men-of-war infesting those parts.
[1½ pages.] Enclosing, |
|
42. i. Examination of Cornelius Van Leen, master of the Samaritan of Flushing, brought in by Capt. Parker from Dunkirk.
While there, 3 prizes were brought in, 2 laden with coals
from the northward, and the other with sugar and tobacco
from Barbadoes. There is a great ship of 50 guns ready to
be launched this spring [tide], and another of 24 guns upon
the stocks. The Hamburgher hoy with 200 Scots arrived
at Dunkirk from the Downs 14 days since, the Scots
having stabbed their captain, and forced the master to
carry them thither; they were well entertained there, and
6 days since set forward towards Charles S[tuart's] party
at Bruges. That party were so uncivil to the people of
the town, that they were told if they were not soon quiet, it
would be the worse for them. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 18. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. John Vaughan to be allowed to exercise his profession as
Counsellor-at-Law. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
2. The petition of Thos. Woodford, merchant, referred to any 3 of
Council, to report. |
|
4. The company of foot, late of Col. Mill's regiment, now under
Maj.-Gen. Thos. Kelsey, consisting of a captain, lieutenant, ensign,
2 serjeants, 3 corporals, 1 drummer, a gentleman of arms, and 80 private soldiers, to be added to the establishment of Dover Castle, and
have the same allowance as the company already there, to begin
from 15 Sept. 1656; the Army Committee and War Treasurers
to act accordingly. Approved 23 Dec. |
|
7. Mr. Bowes' returns concerning arrears to officers and soldiers in
Jamaica to be considered 23 Dec. |
|
8. Order on petition of John Rushworth and Wm. Rowe, principal
registrars of the Admiralty Court,— praying that the deputy registrar,
who received the profits of the office from March to August 1654,
may be ordered to pay the same to them, they bearing the charge of
execution, in case his Highness think fit to allow the same—that the
petitioners represent to Council what the total receipts in that
interval amount to, for which purpose the deputy registrar is to
give them an account of the moneys so received by him, that further
order may be taken. |
|
9. Order on a report by Lord Com. Widdrington and Major Chas.
Howard, who were to consider how the 1,053l. 6s. 8d. ordered
21 Nov. to Lady Dorothy Howard and her eight children should
be settled—that the levying this sum on Phil. Purefoy be forborne,
and the moiety already paid be taken in full of purchase money
for the lands of the late Sir Chas. Howard, and that Purefoy have
reconveyed to him the lands settled for payment of the second
half; and he is to lease the estate to Widdrington and Major
Howard and 2 others in trust to secure the money, the lease to be
void when the sum, with interest at 6 per cent., is paid and
distributed to the 8 children, beginning from the eldest, interest to
be paid to each of them half-yearly until they receive their
principal. Approved 23 Dec. [I. 75, p. 582–4.] |
Dec. 19.
Exeter Gaol. |
43. Chris. Turner to Rob. Blackborne. I have heard from Biscay
that Mr. Sommers escaped three days before my letter and the copy
of the order arrived, and 3 months before those on the other side promised Sommers he should be liberated in exchange for me. He sent
the promise to London to his wife, and by her soliciting, the
Admiralty Commissioners ordered the exchange, it being agreed
upon on both sides; there being no irregularity on my part, I
think the Commissioners should order my liberty. Sommers would
in 3 days have been set at liberty by exchange, and thus saved
expense. I crave justice and performance of the Commissioners'
order. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 19. |
Levant Company to Spencer Bretton, consul at Smyrna. We
are sorry for the tartness of yours of 29 Sept., which being so
peremptory, and you seeming so indifferent whether you continue
there or not, unless on your own terms, the Court was much inclined
to ease you, but for the interposition of those who stood bound for
you, and who have renewed their engagement for your conformity
with us, according to the former agreement. We refer you to the
enclosed general letter, praying you to see the particulars executed,
especially the despatch away of Mr. Lawrence, the prohibition to
lade fruit and corn, or allow any licence for doing so, and a more
exact collection of our own and strangers' consulage; the want
thereof causes you not to be supplied with money to defray your
occasions. We enclose a list of the company's debtors and creditors.
[Levant Papers, Vol IV., p. 279.] |
Dec. 19.
London. |
Levant Company to Edm. Farington. By a letter you sent our
governor, we perceive your careful intentions for supply of our
Treasurer's office [at Smyrna], although you are prevented by several
discouragements, the redress whereof we have seriously recommended to the consul, yourself, and the whole nation, who we hope
will be reduced to a better conformity in payment of consulage.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 280.] |
Dec. 19.
London. |
Levant Company to Sir Thos. Bendish. We thank you for your
care in the release of the Hopeful employment, which was so long
detained in the Castles; we presume it to be at the charge of those
interested, and we are glad you find the vizier and other officers so
civil to you. But we are much troubled that Mr. Lawrence, who
has remained there so long at our charge, for want of a call from the
State, should, after he has received it, be put upon a longer stay for
want of his pay, notwithstanding our express order to the Treasurer
at Smyrna and intimation to you. We hope the matter is settled
ere now, that we may be able to give a good account thereof to his
Highness; but if not, we pray you quickly satisfy the 155 dollars
due, and see that he gives the Treasurer at Constantinople such
vests as he formerly provided on our account, and receives for
them 400 dollars, rather than cause further delay. In case of further
demand by reason of his longer stay, satisfy him according to his
Highness' letter in his hands, but on the easiest possible terms, and
with a discharge from him on behalf of the company. |
|
On hearing from Smyrna that the Prosperous is laden with several
tons of fruit, which, as a prohibited commodity, may expose us to
great danger, we have resolved totally to prohibit the lading of fruit,
cute, and corn, and desire you to see that no licences are granted for
lading such, and to hinder any attempting a practice so dangerous
to the trade. |
|
We desire you to continue your endeavours for the release of Geo.
Davis, so long a captive with the Grand Seignor, whose friends here
frequently solicit us. |
|
Hen. Page having disbursed 1,500 dollars there on the Company's
occasions, which, with interest amounting in all to 1,740, he now
demands as his due, we desire you to have his account proved in
Mr. Gough's books, and let us know whether he be a creditor or not,
and if he has not had the money allowed in some other way. It is
brought to our credit in 1646, and we wonder that we have heard
nothing of it in so many years. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV.,
pp. 280–1.] |
Dec. 19.
London. |
Levant Company to Rich. Lawrence, Constantinople. We are
sorry to hear, by yours of Sep. 23, that our letter to Smyrna about
your affairs was so little regarded, and hope that by now the
matter is settled, and you are returning homewards; yet to prevent
the worst, we have expressed both to Smyrna and Constantinople
our sense of their disesteem, not only of our own, but of his Highness'
interest, with positive order for your speedy satisfaction, it being
much against our will that you are detained, and little to their
credit who are cause thereof. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 281.] |
Dec. 19.
London. |
Levant Company to the consul, treasurer, and factory at
Smyrna. Rich. Lawrence having so long remained there at our
charge, we were confident there would be no obstacle to his
removal, on receipt of his Highness' letter of revocation, and
our positive order for satisfaction of his dues, sent both to his
Lordship at Constantinople, and to the treasurer at Smyrna.
Your lack of compliance troubles us, not only on account of the
further charge we fear we shall undergo, but in respect of his
Highness' interest and distaste, which will reflect discredit upon
us; for it is well known the English in Turkey have often
adventured to raise sums of money on slighter and less occasions.
Therefore if the business be not fully determined, and payment
made before arrival hereof, we expressly order you speedily to
settle his account, either by loan made on goods in the country,
or in some other way as you can best contrive. But see that he
is fully satisfied of all claims on us, and take his discharge. |
|
Although in this special case we allow you to raise money as above
suggested, we cannot doubt but it might have been satisfied out of our
usual duties, had they been properly collected. We hear of several
ways used for defrauding us therein, not only by the masters' short
entries and their giving in false and late manifests, to avoid payment of consulage, but by like evasions of sundry of the factory,
and by omitting the former custom of strangers' lading and unlading at the treasurer's scale. If this is the course usually
practised, it is no wonder we are at a loss for our ordinary charge. |
|
We press you to more conscientious observance of our orders and
of the interest of that trade, and to compliance in payment of our
duties, and do not force us to use unkind means to obtain them.
We have ordered the treasurer to send home the consulage of
every ship apart, expressing the particular factor's name, and for
whose account the same is paid, whereby it will appear who are
behind in payment. |
|
Complaint has been made of a great quantity of fruit laden on
the Prosperous by some surreptitious licence procured by the master
or others. As it is a forbidden commodity, and we, by former
experience, are fearful of such disasters as may consequently ensue,
we publicly disown any such attempt, and forbid the lading of fruit,
or the grant of licence to do it, which we desire you to observe, as
a small parcel of fruit, cute, or corn may endanger the whole lading
of a ship. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 282–3.] |
Dec. 19/29.
Tours. |
44. Edw. Norris to Williamson, Saumur. I have been 6 days from
Blois, and have seen Tours and Richelieu, and have been very civilly
treated by an Englishman. I am sorry to see one so much changed,
having lost half a finger. To-morrow I return to Blois. [¾ page.] |
| [Dec. 20.] |
45. Petition of well affected persons in and about London and
Westminster to the Protector. From tenderness to the cause of
spiritual and civil liberty, concerned in some late proceedings of
Parliament, we have petitioned them to remit the remaining punishment of Jas. Nayler; and considering your interest with Parliament,
we address you, that you will be pleased, according to former declarations, and our experience of your interest in liberty and conscience, to weigh the consequence of these late proceedings, and
according to the 37th article of the instrument of government,
and on the ground you declare upon in your war with Spain, to
stand up for the poor people of God. 87 signatures. [1¼ sheets.]
Annexing, |
|
45. i. Petition of the same to Parliament. Your clemency in
respiting Nayler's punishment has refreshed the hearts of
thousands, and opened their hearts to behold something
besides the terror of Mount Sinai, and gives us hopes to
see you come forth yet more in the spirit of Jesus. We
beg you to remit the rest of his punishment, leaving him
to the Lord and gospel remedies. [1 page, copy. See
Commons' Journals, Vol. VII., p. 471.] |
Dec. 20.
The Essex, Downs. |
Capt. Wm. Whitehorne to the Admiralty Commissioners. The
Mermaid has returned, having been to Dieppe, and landed Mr.
Moreland at Rye. I have appointed her and the Cheriton to ply
upon the coast of Flanders, and endeavour to surprise and destroy
the enemies' vessels; but if nothing presents, then to cruise towards
Ostend Roads, for I have had notice, by a great Flemish flyboat
laden with salt, that was taken and brought in by the Eagle of
Calais, of 10 more bound thither with that commodity. The
Adventure and Red Horse have come in with several vessels richly
laden, bound for the Thames. I ordered the Acadia to take charge
of them, as also of 3 Swedish vessels with masts for the State, one
of which is bound for Chatham. |
|
Capt. Nixon, hearing of a man-of-war riding off St. Valery de
Somme with his prize, went ahead of the Adventure and the convoys,
and coming up, prepared to board him, but he shot down Nixon's mainyard, and so escaped amongst the sands, it being night. The prize,
which was only a stone boat, and had everything valuable taken
out of her, was carried by one of the convoys to Caen, not being
worth bringing over. Capt. Nixon says that when about to board,
his carpenter ran down into the hold; as he is a very lewd and
debased fellow, Stephen File, his mate, is more fit for his place,
and John Hills of the Essex for the place of gunner's mate. |
|
I have appointed Capt. Plumleigh and some other ships to fetch
some homeward-bound vessels from Caen. A Hamburg hoy also
came in with above 200 Scots on board, bound for France; Capt.
Parker understands by the packet boat at Dover that they went for
Dunkirk, but whether by the knavery of the master, or the rebellion
of the Scots, is not known; the merchants at Dieppe however made
enquiry of Capt. Foot for such a vessel. If any more Scots are
designed for France, they should either be transported in English
vessels, or the master that carries them over enjoined not to go
without convoy, so that C. S[tuart's] party may not be encouraged
with strength that way. [2 pages.] |
| [Dec. 23.] |
47. Hen. Milles, mayor of Bridgwater, to John Lord Desborow,
General of the West, and M.P. Your ready assistance encourages
me to represent our cases, we having no help towards repairing
120 dwelling houses consumed in the late war. We beg your order
for some stones undisposed of, belonging to the late garrison,—viz.,
a small sconce at the foot of the bridge, and a wall near the castle,
50 feet long and 5 or 6 high,—towards the rebuilding of our almshouses, which were utterly demolished; many poor shall bless you
for them. Bridgewater, 16 Dec. 1656. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 23. |
Order thereon in Council that the mayor and aldermen may take
down and carry away the said stones for repairing the almshouses,
without payment. [I. 77, p. 587.] |
| Dec. 23. |
48. Petition of Hen. Hoogan, receiver-general for cos. Norfolk,
Suffolk, Hunts, and Cambridge, and Nich. Salter, his deputy, to the
Protector and Council. Considering our great pains and charge, for
encouragement, you allowed Hoogan 12d. in the pound, which on
Auditor Broad's certificate of receipts of 5,600l. a year, would have
been 280l., but he did not mention annuities, quit rents, and rents
discharged, which bring it to 3,591l. 13s. 8d., so that 22d. in the
pound for 300l. a year would not be worth more than was intended.
We beg consideration of our charges and an extra allowance.
[¾ page.] Annexing, |
|
48. i. Statement by Auditor Hen. Broad, that the clear revenue
of the counties, deducting 2,005l. for annuities, &c., is
3,591l. 13s. 0d. [¾ page.] |
|
48. ii. Form of the order requested. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 23. |
Reference thereon to Skippon, Desborow, Lambert, Rous,
Sydenham, and Lisle, to report. [I. 77., p. 590.] |
| Dec. 23. |
49. Petition of the mayor and burgesses of Marlborough, co. Wilts,
to the Protector. Our borough is ancient and has enjoyed divers
privileges, but in 1642, being in arms for Parliament, we were
besieged and plundered by the late King's party, lost our goods and
estates, many of us were imprisoned, and our charter was taken
away. We beg its renewal, with further acts of grace for our better
government. [2/3 page.] |
| Dec. 23. |
Reference thereon by Council to Mr. Beck, and the rest of the
Committee on Charters, to consider the former charter, and the
alterations to be made, and prepare a draft for Council. [I. 77,
p. 591.] |
| Dec. 23. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1. Approval by the Protector of 45 orders, 16 Sept. to 18 Dec.;
with note of one respited, and another suspended. |
|
3. The petition and paper of Rob. Mason referred to the Treasury
Commissioners, to learn the case, and report. |
|
4.* Approval of an additional augmentation by the Trustees for
Maintenance of Ministers of 30l., besides 20l. granted before, to
Wm. Sparrow, minister of Halstead, Essex. |
|
5. The order of Dec. 3, for an augmentation to Mr. Mather,
minister of Barnstaple, of 100l., to be expressed as settled on him,
instead of continued to him. |
|
6. The order of 20 Nov., giving Mr. Vernon, now prisoner in the
Tower, liberty to go into the country on security, reversed and
vacated. |
|
7. Order on report of the Committee on Waltham Forest—that
there has been great destruction of wood and timber there—to
advise a commission to some gentlemen of quality thereabouts
to be wardens of the forest, and preserve the wood and timber.
Annexing; |
|
50. Report alluded to, signed by Mulgrave, Wolsley, and Desborow.
[2/3 page.] |
|
8. In case application be made on behalf of the gift of God, of
St. Malo, the clerks of Council are to be remembrancers of a paper
now delivered by Desborow, containing several extracts out of the
papers therein found. |
|
51. 9*. A paper from the Prize Goods' Commissioners,—representing that the galleon Jesu-Maria-Joseph, and the ship Elias, lately
taken from the Spaniards, are in danger of being spoiled by lying at
Portsmouth in a leaky condition, and that they are valued together
at 440l.,—referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to sell the ships,
or do what may be best. |
|
11. To advise his Highness to renew the commission to the
Council in Scotland, to make 3 a quorum, and to have a quorum
sent down forthwith. |
|
12*. The Admiralty Commissioners to certify quickly what Commonwealth ships are now in the Channel, or employed to guard the
coasts of England, Scotland, or Ireland, and in what stations; what
ships are in port, what is needed to fit them up, and how long it
will take to fit them. |
|
13. The petition of Francis Willoughby,—for payment of
1,622l. 16s. 4d. due to his father, Col. Willoughby, at the time
of his death, for hire of ships to guard the Thames during the
insurrection in Kent and Essex, and of 2,450l. due for freight
of shipping since 1644—referred to Desborow, Strickland, Sydenham,
Mulgrave, Jones, and Skippon, to state his demand for the first sum,
enquire of the Admiralty Commissioners concerning the second, and
report, with their opinion how best he may be satisfied. |
|
His Highness withdrew. |
|
15. On Lambert's report from the Committee to speak with
Col. Ralph Weldon about stating his account for disbursements
and undertakings in disbanding foot and horse in Plymouth
garrison in 1647, more fully set forth in Council's order of Dec. 3,
—that they caused his account to be examined, and found a balance
of 3,300l. due to him,—order to advise payment thereof out of the
arrear assessments of the City of London. |
|
16. Order that Strickland, Mulgrave, Desborow, Sydenham, and
Skippon consider proposals made to-day, about a warrant to
authorize Mr. Hollis and Mr. Pye to search for prohibited goods
imported, and for goods intended to be exported contrary to law;
also a certificate from the Customs' Commissioners concerning
importing goods and exporting money in Dutch men-of-war coming
into the river, who refuse to be searched, whereby the revenue is
impaired, and to report. |
|
17. Approval of the continuance to the minister of North Ferriby,
co. York, of an augmentation of 30l., granted by the Trustees for
Maintenance of Ministers to Jas. Roberts, minister, since deceased.
Approved 1 Jan. |
|
52. 19. Order on report from the Committee on John Hopkins'
petition, for payment of his salary as doorkeeper to the Trustees
for Forfeited Estates at Drury House, that as they certify that he
has served diligently, and that 75l. is due to him as salary for
3¾ years ending in April last, the Trustees issue their warrants to
the treasurers of money arising on sale of lands to pay Hopkins
accordingly. Approved 8 Jan. |
|
20. Approval of an augmentation by the Trustees for Maintenance
of Ministers of 80l., beside 90l. granted before, to Wm. Speed, who
has succeeded John Corbett as minister of Chichester, Sussex.
Approved 25 Dec. |
|
21. The petition of Henry Twyford, Thos. Dring, and John Place,
stationers, referred to Desborow, Lambert, Sydenham, and Wolsley,
to speak with Mr. Scobell, state the case, and report. |
|
23. The petition of John Boatman, pastor of the congregation of
Peter's of Mancroft, Norwich, and the whole business concerning
him referred to Maj.-Gen. Hezekiah Haynes, and the Commissioners
and Ministers for ejecting scandalous Ministers for co. Norfolk, to
examine the matters alleged against the petitioner, and report. |
|
24. Order on desire of Lord Nieuport, ambassador from the
United Provinces, that Jacob van Lewen of Amsterdam, now a
prisoner at Chelsea College, be released, and allowed to return
home. [I. 75, pp. 586–591.] |
Dec. 23.
Whitehall. |
President Lawrence to Gen. Monk, Commander-in-Chief of the
forces in Scotland. We have considered the condition of Elizabeth,
wife of William, late Duke of Hamilton, and of her 4 daughters,
Anne, Elizabeth, Margaret, and Mary, and finding that the Kenneel
lands in Scotland, settled on her for her jointure, and on her
children after her death, were set out to you by Parliament for a
donative, and the interest therein transferred by you, and now
vested in Mr. Bilton, we desire you to have 5,000l., part of the fine
to be paid by confiscated persons in Scotland, paid to you, or to the
persons interested in the donative, for redemption thereof. If this
proposition be refused, the said 5,000l., shall be deposited in safe
hands for 2 months, during which time the said duchess and others
concerned may dispose of it, and use all means in their power to
redeem the estate; and if some concerned refuse to act within the
2 months, then the others concerned may, at the end of 2 months,
act without them. |
|
We also desire you to use your influence towards persuading
Mr. Bilton, and others concerned, to accept compensation, and allow
the Duchess to redeem the estate. [I. 77, p. 950–1.] |
Dec. 23.
Whitehall. |
President Lawrence to the President and Council in Scotland.
To the same effect as the preceding. In case the 5,000l. and the
propositions are accepted, liberty is to be given by common consent
for a sale to be made of such part of the donative as will make
good the propositions for redemption, which being a matter of great
concern to the Duchess and her children, and others concerned,
you are desired to accommodate the business between the parties,
and if it take effect, to see that the remainder of the estate be
disposed of to the best advantage of the Duchess and her children,
or of those to whom, by the laws of Scotland, it belongs in reversion.
In case there cannot be an accommodation, you are to see that the
5,000l. be secured to the best advantage of the Duchess and her
children. [I. 77, pp. 951–2.] |
| Dec. 24. |
53. Petition of Katherine, widow of Col. Thos. Cholmley, to the
Protector. In 1644 and 1645 my husband was plundered of 1,000l.
personal estate by the late King's party at Carlisle, and had several
houses burned and plucked down. To reduce the city, he raised a
troop of horse and regiment of foot, for which 1,521l. 3s. 4d. is due
to him. In 1648 he was again plnndered and made prisoner, till
you regained the city from the Scots, when you promised him
reparation. He has died and left me with 4 small children, and
many debts, and when I came to London last winter to supplicate
you for relief, I was arrested by one of my husband's creditors for
a 300l. debt, and am still detained. |
|
My husband being collector of customs at Carlisle, owed 56l., and
for this the Commissioners of Customs have extended the little land
he had left. I beg that it may be deducted from his arrears; that I
may be allowed in part of the arrears a rent of 29l. yet unsold, on
Little Sunkeld Manor, Cumberland, and that the remainder may be
charged on the forest lands, or otherwise secured. [2/3 sheet.]
Annexing, |
|
53. i. Certificate to the truth of Col. Cholmley's services, and recommendation of the widow, by Maj.-Gen. Chas. Howard,
Wm. Brisco, and 3 other justices of peace of Cumberland.
16 Oct. 1655. [1 page.] |
53. ii. Certificate of the county commissioners of Cumberland to
the accounts of Col. Thos. Cholmley for services and expenses
in 1644 and 1645; balance due, 1,521l. 13s. 4d. Signed
by Sir Wilfrid Lawson and 5 others. Endorsed,
"If thou wilt not deceived be,
A bald pate's conversation flee.
Rich. Graham, Rich. Cromwell." [1 sheet.] |
| Dec. 24. |
Reference on her petition, &c., by Council to Lambert, Strickland,
Pickering, Desborow, Mulgrave, and Sydenham; Strickland and
Pickering to speak with Maj. - Gen. Howard and Mr. Brisco
to-morrow. [I. 77, p. 593.] |
| Dec. 24. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1*. Order on a paper entitled "The information of Robt. Hicks,
of Broad Windsor, co. Dorset, seaman," that a copy thereof be sent
to the commissioners of the county, who are to examine into the
truth of the matter of fact and report, and meanwhile to seize Robt.
Hicks, of Aberstoke, if they see cause. |
|
2*. Order on a paper from the Admiralty Commissioners, containing the names of 6 ships specified, fit to be sent southward,
that the Admiralty Commissioners send them away to Gen. Blake's
fleet as quickly as possible. |
|
3. To advise an order to Gen. Blake, on the arrival of the above
ships, to send home 6 of the ships he has with him, if he can spare
them. |
|
4. Order on petition of John Blarru, late deputy of Bordeaux—
shewing his sufferings, and praying liberty to import from Bayonne
500 or 600 bales or packs of Spanish wool, paying the usual duties
—to advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Blarru
a pension of 1l. a week till further order; and Lambert, Pickering,
the Lord Deputy, Desborow, and Sydenham, to consider the
petitioner's desire, and report. |
|
6. The petition of John Fowkes, alderman of London, read, but no
order passed thereon. |
|
7. Order on a printed paper subscribed with the names of divers
gentlemen of Ireland, and of some justices of peace for Middlesex
and Surrey—recommending for charity, as a great sufferer in
Ireland,—for whom a collection was lately made at St. Martin's-inthe-Fields—that Mr. Scobell speak with some of the people whose
names are down, and report if they own to have subscribed the
same. |
|
8. Jessop to examine an account for 230l. 3s. 11½d. now offered
to Council as Maj.-Gen. Kelsey's disbursements in coach hire, &c.,
in travelling with other gentlemen to Portsmouth, and bringing up
the plate to London, to compare with the bills and report. [I. 77,
pp. 592–4.] Annexing, |
|
54. Account alluded to, with Jessop's report, certifying its
accuracy. 27 Dec. 1656. [3 pages.] |
| Dec. 25. |
55. Petition of Mat. Martin, of Oxford, to the Protector. I was
paymaster to the train of artillery till reduced in 1647, so that I am
among those to whom the security of Parliament was given for
their arrears; but being far from Westminster and busy, I could not
attend to get my arrears into bonds, which I cannot now obtain
without your special order, and which I therefore request.
[2/3 page.] |
| Dec. 25. |
Order thereon in Council that—as a debenture for 58l. 8s. 0d.
was given him 21 Feb. 1647–8 by the Army Committee, on the
account stated by the Treasurers-at-war, according to the Ordinance
of Parliament, the Trustees for sale of the late King's lands put his
debentures into bond, that security may be applied thereto, as to
other like debentures. Approved 17 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 594, 604.] |
| Dec. 25. |
56. Petition of Anne, wife of Major Geo. Walters to the Protector
and Council, for the enlargement of her husband, that he may
provide for his family, who are in great want. He is under
restraint on an account of freight for ships contracted for in Ireland
to carry soldiers to Spain. [¾ page.] |
Dec. 25.
Whitehall. |
Pres. Lawrence to the mayor of Coventry, Lieut.-Col. Willington,
and the rest of the justices of peace near Coventry. We hear that
Major Walters, being on his way to Ireland, was lately arrested at
Aulsley, near Coventry, in the night, by a constable and soldiers,
who broke into his room, on a warrant of the Court of Admiralty,
at suit of Thos. Skinner. It is supposed to be for freight of
Irish to Spain, by order from the Commissioners in Ireland. The
King of Spain's failure to make good his contract has almost
ruined the major, who was arrested thereon before, but denied a
copy of the warrant. We desire you to examine the cause of his
detention, and if you can, to release him to go to Ireland, to
accomplish orders issued in his behalf to the Lord Deputy and
Council there; or if not, to certify. [I. 77, pp. 594, 952.] |
| Dec. 25. |
57. Petition of Anne, widow of Lieut.-Col. Blunt, to the Protector,
for a pension for relief of herself and family. Her husband
weakened his estate by serving his country before he went into
the army. At Inverness, by hard service and change of air, he
contracted a distemper, of which he died, leaving her and 5 children
in a low condition. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 25. |
Order on report that 20s. a week be allowed her, and that the
Treasury Commissioners consider how she may be provided for by
lands in Ireland, and report. [I. 77, p. 595.] Annexing, |
|
58. Report of the Committee to whom the petition was referred,
that 20s. a week should be allowed her till other provision
is made for her. [2/3 page.] |
| Dec. 25. |
59. Petition of Thos. Writer, tanner and maltster of Worcester, to
Council. On the order of 18 April last, I caused discoveries to be
entered at Worcester House, and certified them to the Treasury
Commissioners and to you. Not having discoveries of my own, I was
obliged to treat with others, who will not furnish their discoveries
without allowance of 1/5, as granted to them by the patent, so that,
after my labour and charge, I can only have 1,200l. I beg an order
to the Treasury to pay the discoverer out of the other moiety of
the monies, so that I may receive the 2,000l. ordered, without
defalcation. [1 page.] |
| Dec. 25. |
Note of its being read in Council, but no order made other than
the former order confirmed. [I. 77, p. 596.] |
| Dec. 25. |
60. Petition of Major Wm. Hill, of Guildford, to the Protector.
From the beginning of the wars to the finishing of the great
business at Worcester, I served with my best affection, as captain
and major, and was in actual service from 18 Nov. 1642 to 1 Jan.
1647–8, for which 1,100l. 17s. 6d. is due to me, as appears by my
account, stated by the Commissioners for the Monthly Assessments
and disbanding supernumeraries. |
|
I have long waited, but had no benefit of the securities intended
by the Ordinance of 24 Dec. 1647, as other supernumeraries have,
because my account was not bonded within the time limited, for I
was ignorant thereof, being in actual service in 1648 and 1649,
and to the end of the expedition at Worcester against the King
of Scots. |
|
To support myself, wife, and 13 children, I beg an order to the
Worcester House Committee to put my debentures into bonds,
that I may have the like security with the army, and to the
Army Committee, to transmit my debentures. With reference
to Council, 18 Nov. 1656. [1 sheet.] |
| Dec. 25. |
Order thereon in Council that the Army Committee register his
debentures, and transmit them to the Trustees, who are to put them
into a bond, that they may be fixed on a security, as other supernumeraries' bonds. Approved 1 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 599–611.] |
| Dec. 25. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
3. Sydenham and Strickland to enquire concerning Mr. Lewes,
and give Council an account thereof. |
|
5. Order on the petition of Elizabeth, Countess of Dirleton, that
for the recovery of her health, she have liberty to be at her own
house as desired, and that Edw. Dendy, serjeant-at-arms, permit it
accordingly. |
|
6. Col. Scroope, Mr. Swinton, and Maj.-Gen. Howard, members of
his Highness' Council in Scotland, to repair to Scotland to attend
their charges there at the first opportunity. |
|
8. The petition and report in the case of Abr. Johnson, to be
considered next sitting. |
|
13. John Garnett, schoolmaster of Leeds, having attended Council
on summons, order on his petition and certificates, that he be allowed
to return home, and that his security given to the major-general
and county commissioners of Yorkshire, for attending Council, be
returned to him. |
|
14. The report concerning the charter for Chipping Wycombe to
be considered next sitting of Council. |
|
15. Lambert, Sydenham, Desborow, and the Lord Deputy, to speak
with Maj.-Gen. Chas. Howard about arrears to the militia troops and
civil officers in the counties under his charge, and to report. |
|
16. The petition of Capt. John Nary concerning 280l. alleged to
have been disbursed by him for pay of non-commissioned officers
and soldiers of his late troop of dragoons, referred to any 3 of Council,
to learn the truth, and report. |
|
19. The report on James Freer's case to be considered next
Tuesday. |
|
20. Capt. Wm. Rhodes' petition to be considered at the next
sitting of Council. |
|
25. To advise a warrant to pay 2,000l. on account to Fras.
Hodges, treasurer for the Jamaica forces, for a month's pay with
arrears, to the officers and soldiers employed in the American
expedition. |
|
26. Whereas the 2 men were reduced from each troop of the regiments in England to complete his Highness' life-guard, but none taken
from Col. Winthrop's regiment, because it was then in Scotland, so
that since his return to England, though he has 50 men in a troop,
he can only get pay for 48;—order that Col. Hacker, whose regiment
was reduced by the 12 men, and who is now in Scotland, take the 12
men, 2 from each troop of Col. Winthrop's regiment, and have them
mustered and paid in Scotland from 13 Oct. last. Approved 8 Jan. |
|
27. To prepare an order at Council's next sitting, to the purport
of what was now offered concerning Trustees for confiscated estates
in Scotland. |
|
28. The Army Committee to transmit duplicates of all debentures
in their custody belonging to officers and soldiers in the annexed
list, viz., 360, beginning with Rich. Heywood and ending with John
Dawson, to the Trustees at Worcester House for sale of King's lands,
and they also to receive the rest of the debentures in the annexed
list, not formerly in their custody, and transmit them to the said
Trustees, to put the said debentures into bonds according to order of
4 Sept. 1656. Approved 1 Jan. |
|
29. Approval by the Protector of an order of 23 Dec. |
|
30. An order to be prepared against the next sitting of Council
for a letter to Gen. Monk, to cause the Exchequer in Scotland to be
opened, so that there may be a convenient time to expose writings
to public view, according to the custom of that Court. |
Dec. 25.
Whitehall. |
Pres. Lawrence to the Company at Hamburg. His Highness
and Council, having heard several complaints against Francis
Townley, a member of your society, of affronts, &c., offered to his
Highness' resident there, summoned him to attend Council here, to
answer these charges; and as after attending Council several times
he departed to Hamburg without leave, the resident secured him
on his arrival, till his Highness' pleasure should be known. His
Highness and Council, much resenting his contemptuous departure,
ordered his return by the next ship, which order Townley evaded
or refused to obey; they therefore now order the resident to send
him in custody, by sea or land, to answer the charges and his contempt, and require you to give your assistance to the resident in
this matter. You enjoy so many advantages under his Highness
protection that you should be tender of the honour of his public
Minister. [I. 77, p. 596.] |
Dec. 25.
Whitehall. |
Pres. Lawrence to the Lord President and Council in Scotland.
His Highness and Council having considered the petition of the
creditors of confiscated persons in Scotland, have passed the enclosed
order, and desire you to assemble the persons concerned, and see
the order executed. [I. 77, p. 940.] |
Dec. 25.
Whitehall. |
Pres. Lawrence to the governor of Sandown Castle. His Highness
and Council having ordered the removal of the Earl of Crawford
and Lindsey from Sandown Castle to Windsor, and resolved to give
him leave to come without a guard, upon his parole to render himself up prisoner to the governor of Windsor Castle within 6 days,
we desire you to receive his parole, and dismiss him accordingly.
[I. 77, p. 953.] |
| Dec. 26. |
61. Order by the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal. His
Highness having granted Rob. Villiers a patent to assume the name
and arms of the Danvers family, and Lady Danvers having complained of great prejudice to the family thereby, he wishes to
examine and determine the case. We therefore appoint a hearing of
both parties in the Court of Wards Chamber on 23 Jan. next, when
the Solicitor General, and Garter, Clarencieux, and Norroy, kingsat-arms, are desired to be present. [1 page.] |
Dec. 28.
London. |
62. Rich. Lowther to Williamson. I find you have informed
Mr. Northleigh of my close departure, though you advised me not
to do. It might well have been spared, and engenders great harm.
I hope you will return the balance of the 30l. sent, which should be
20l., as I have few arrears due to you. Those for tennis and my
landlady I hope to pay in 3 weeks. As you have told Northleigh
of the tennis, pay something to the marker of the tennis court. |
|
The past I shall bury in oblivion, but I have heard from friends
every word that you have written to my father, which is not what
I should have thought; I hope you will lay by past oversights,
and send me, with other things, something worthy my father's acceptance, which I may send him next term. I am going into chambers
at the Temple. Do not make me incur my father's displeasure
further. You know what lies upon it, which is no slight business. |
|
P.S.—Tell me your intentions in travel. I should have taken
leave of Mr. Calander, but he was in bed. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
62. i. List of 5 books and a few clothes. Noted [by Williamson]
Mr. Lowther's notes of books. [½ page.] |
Dec. 29.
London. |
63. Jeffery Northleigh to Williamson. You heard 8 days since of
Rich. Lowther's return. The bill of 30l. was payable to him to
defray the charges of his return, and 120l. was made good to you,
according to promise. I have showed Richard your letter, but he
acknowledges but small arrears. Send particulars. Your disbursement for him should be repaid. [2/3 page.] |
| Dec. 29./Jan. 8. |
64. Edw. Norris to his father, Williamson, Saumur. Your letter
was hardly arrived before I presented it to Mr. Norris, who regrets
being so near a happiness without embracing it. He says that he
maintained that Saumur was the nearest way from Rochelle to Tours,
and would have tried it, but his companions said it would be
uncivil, and so he cannot welcome his father. [1 page, French.] |
Dec. 29.
Whitehall. |
65–67. Petition of the inhabitants of Plympton Mary parish, co.
Devon, to the Protector. Our tithes were leased by Windsor College
to Art. Perryman for 74l. rent, which for 2 years was granted by the
Long Parliament to our minister, but the Revenue Committee stopped
this, Parliament was dissolved before further application, and the
rents were gathered by a receiver, till your Ordinance constituting the
governors [of the almshouses] of Windsor [Castle], who have received
the whole tithes, being 200l., since 25 March 1655, when the lease
expired, but have given no allowance to a minister. We beg 100l.
therefrom for him. 12 signatures. With reference to Scobell, Jessop,
and Nye, and their report that the rectory and tithes were vested in
the governors to maintain the almshouses; the revenue being then
1,186l. 13s. 5d., of which 1,086l. 13s. 4d is to be for charitable uses;
that 200l. above the 1,086l. 13s. 5d. was ordered to be paid to the
Commissioners for approval of Preachers, and that now some leases
having fallen in, and the rents being thereby raised, there will
be enough to pay that 200l. and 100l. to the minister of Plympton
Mary. [3 papers, the report being in 2 copies.] |
| [Dec.] |
68. Petition of Lieut. Rob. Yardley to the Admiralty Commissioners.
My grandfather and father have for 50 years held Chatham rectory,
including a stable, 2 barns, and a yard with buildings, by leases from
the Dean and Chapter of Rochester, the last of which, for 21 years,
was dated 10 Jan. 1639. The stable and barn being useful for the
State, the Navy Commissioners have had it at a rent of 13s. 4d.;
but when of late I wished to take them back, the Navy Commissioners refused them, and I am unwilling to contend for them. I
beg you to have the case examined, and relieve me according to
justice. [1 page.] |
| Dec. ? |
69. Petition of Col. Wm. Borthwick, prisoner at Bruges, to the
King. As an unjust judge hears after much importunity, surely the
justest of all mortals will at last notice me; 8 months ago, being ill, I
wrote to Lord Newburgh, begging a divine, a physician, and the
benefit of justice to clear myself from calumny, but I have had no
answer, and Fox will not pay my keeper a few shillings advanced
for medicine. My comfort is that you have not known my
condition. |
|
I served 7 years under your father at my own cost. I voyaged
between Scotland and Ireland in 1648, to advance the Duke of
Hamilton's engagements, and when 700,000l. sterling was due to
that army, I brought 6 troops of horse over in sight of the
Parliamentary ships, which took a son of Sir Wm. Stewart, and it
cost him his life. |
|
The Parliament offered a large sum to that army, and had I been
remiss, I could have got 5,000l. paid in Edinburgh. In the fines
laid on malignants, mine was twice as much as the Earl of Rothes',
and 3 times as the Earl of Kelly's, and I have since been fined and
forced to lend monies, or be undone with quarterings upon me. I
gave 300l. when your forces were in danger of breaking at Stirling,
and Duke Hamilton said no colonel in the army would do the like.
I had losses at Worcester, at Dundee, &c. I never took moneys
in place of bringing levies; my regiment was the largest and best
fitted, nor did I ever fail in any trust. |
|
I know not what is laid against me, but 2 years since my Lord
Chancellor questioned me on some information of an infamous
fellow, utterly untrue. |
|
In reward of my fidelity, I am perishing for want of necessaries.
I have not in 3 years changed my clothes, nor had a fire in winter,
which the smallest person in the gaol has, except myself; and the
limbs that have carried me many a mile on your service are numbed,
having been long barefooted, and long a beggar, a trade I never
dreamed to make use of. |
|
May not my blood prove heavy if I perish in a small room in a
miserable gaol, where I have neither air nor society ? If it be for
my last unfortunate journey, all I had to do was only concealing
2 persons. I could not have gained 10l. had I told all I knew of
your affairs; I should have waited to make a better bargain before
I parted with my honour. I will yield to none in fidelity to you.
[2 pages.] Annexing, |
|
69. i. Questions for Col. Borthwick's examination:— |
|
1. When did you come into Scotland, and where did you
land, with what pass, and how obtained ?
|
|
2. Whom did you tell that you came from the King with
his letters and commissions, or were sent by the Earl
of Glencairn ? |
|
3. Where did you leave your letters and commissions,
and who knew where they were ? |
|
4. Did your brother, the Major, know this, and did you
know Col. Blatake or Capt. Phipps ? |
|
5. Were you in their company after you knew the letters
and commissions were taken, and how did you
know it? |
|
6. Did you often come to Blatake's chamber when he kept
himself secret, and his father in a room apart ? |
|
7. When you were advised to beware of Phipps, did you
say that he was a Cavalier at heart ? |
|
8. Did you say that Monk was no enemy to the King,
and would give him better conditions than Cromwell? |
|
9. Had you an anonymous letter, asking you to write the
word Parrall over the chamber door if you would
admit the writer ? |
|
10. Did you see the writer, and confer with him touching
Monk or Phipps? |
|
11. Was this person reproved for advising the Earl of
Glencairn to beware of himself? |
|
12. How did the said letter get out of your hands, and
was anyone imprisoned for writing it? |
|
13. What money had Blatake, or your brother the Major
from Phipps, Col. Daniell, or Monk's secretary, and
to what purpose ? [12/3 pages.] |
| Dec. ? |
70. Rich. Lowther to Williamson. You seem to resent my letter
highly, and call my writing scarcely legible; I have acquired a
scribbling hand, a lawyer's attribute here, but your writing is not
always good. I did not think it officious to consult a man, yet I
dare not argue with your 7 years of philosophy; you judge me
hardly, and my transgressions were not so boundless as you judge
them, but I am glad you did not go to the utmost. If your
conscience were so strait-laced between father and son, the one
would scarce have countervailed the other; but I thank your
provident policy, as my Saumur friends are blab-mouthed. It must
be my blind ignorance not to see what you say, that I have had
more service than either my father's liberality or my merit could
expect. |
|
I did not travel the road you advised, for the soldiers were
passing there, but went by Vendosme. I can spend my time better
than in answering yours by parcels. I wrote you about the 30 livres
I owed my landlady, &c., &c. [1¾ pages.] |
