|
| Jan. 1. |
1. Petition of Peter Blake, of Andover, co. Hants, to the Protector.
I trusted John Lucas, late of Hungerford, Berks, with goods value
75l. 13s. 2d., but he being in the last insurrection, was condemned
at Sarum and executed, so that I must lose the debt without your
relief. I beg that those who are to receive the profits of the estate
may pay me. [23 pages.] Annexing, |
|
1. i. Certificate by Rich. Blake of the debt. 3 March 1655–6.
[Scrap.] |
|
1. ii. Certificate by Col. Wm. Goffe and 10 others to the like effect,
and that the debt is still unpaid. 16 April 1656.
[1 page.] |
| Jan. 1. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1.* Approval of a certificate by the Trustees for Maintenance
of Ministers, that John Goldwyre, now minister of Arundel, Surrey,
should have the augmentation granted to Mr. Cuffley, late minister. |
|
2.* Order on the petition of divers inhabitants of Newport
Pagnell, co. Bucks, that the said Trustees settle on John Gibbs, their
minister, an augmentation of 40l. a year. |
|
3.* Approval of a certificate from the said Trustees for allowance
of 20l. a year to the minister of Chattisham, co. Suffolk. |
|
4.* The said Trustees to continue to Allen Geare, now minister of
Saviour's in Dartmouth, co. Devon, the former augmentation of
42l. 6s. 2d. a year out of the rent of Painton, and 54l. out of the
rent of Mary Church, to be divided between himself and such other
able ministers as shall be settled there. |
|
5. The petition of Mary Humphreys, widow, referred to any 3 of
Council, to report. |
|
6. To advise his Highness to appoint a tide surveyor. |
|
7. To the order of 23 Dec. last, advising a warrant for 3,300l. to
Col. Ralph Weldon, a clause to be added that the warrant shall be
without payment of fees, and that his security on the excise is to
stand until the money is paid. |
|
8. A certificate from the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, for
a union between Euston parish and Heythorpe rectory, co. Oxon,
and several petitions from the inhabitants of Euston, and papers
annexed, referred to Lambert, Wolsley, Fiennes, Lord Deputy, Jones,
and Mulgrave, to report. |
|
9. Approval of the certificate of the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, for an augmentation of 10l. a year to the minister of North
Kelsey, co. Lincoln. |
|
10. Order on a letter from the mayor of Coventry, and
— Hopkins, justice of peace for co. Warwick, on Major Walters'
arrest and the warrant therefor, at suit of Thos. Skinner [see
25 Dec. 1656], that the Lord Deputy, Lambert, Fiennes, Sydenham,
and Wolsley speak with the judges of the Admiralty and Common
Law, consider what should be done as to his release, and report. |
|
11. Order—on report from the Committee about alterations in
Chipping Wycombe charter, co. Bucks [see 20 Feb. 1656], that the
inhabitants of Great and Little Massinden, and other adjacent
parishes, have 14 days' time to show cause why a court of record
should not be held every 3 weeks at Chipping Wycombe for debts,
accounts, &c., in the several parishes. |
|
The clause for serving of process rejected. |
|
The latter part of the report approved. |
|
Counsel-at-law to consider the charter and certify thereon, and
Mr. Beck to attend them. |
|
12. The Commissioners on Charters for corporations to take no
fees. |
|
13. Strickland, Desborow, Mulgrave, Wolsley, Jones, and Fiennes,
to learn if the above Commissioners do take fees, and report. |
|
14. Order—on reading a letter to his Highness from the ViceChancellor and heads of Oxford University, concerning a suit
commenced in the Court of Upper Bench, against Dr. Palmer,
warden of All Souls, in a case of election of fellows, according to an
order of the then visitors of the University—that Fiennes speak
to Lord Chief Justice Glynn thereon, and report. |
|
15. The petition of Col. Thos. Willoughby referred to any 3 of
Council, to speak with some members of Parliament for co. Warwick
thereon, and report. |
|
16*. The petition of Sir Thos. Wiseman, of co. Essex, and a
certificate from the county Commissioners, referred to the Major
General and Commissioners, to report their advice therein. |
|
17. A paper from Phil. Meadows, concerning the account of
50,000l. from Portugal, of which 600l. remains in Mr. Bird's hands,
and the allowance for the receipt thereof, referred to Jones,
Desborow, Sydenham, Strickland, and Wolsley, to consider what
must be done about the 600l., and what allowance made for
the receiving of the money. Also to ask Mr. Bushell and the
Trustees for Bishops' lands, &c., whether they have any land that
would yield 100l. a year, in order to accomplish his Highness' and
Council's order to grant a lease of so much to Mr. Meadows for 99
years; also to see what has become of the lands formerly granted to
Mr. Lockyer and since reconveyed to his Highness, and to report. |
|
18. Maj.-Gen. Lilburne to order the receivers of militia money in
the counties of his division to pay Maj.-Gen. Chas. Howard 500l.
towards arrears to his troops and civil officers in cos. Northumberland
and Cumberland, for the year ending June 24 1656. Approved
8 Jan. |
|
19. 2. When there shall be occasion to impress mariners in the Isle
of Wight for the fleet, the Admiralty Commissioners, or the press
gang under their orders, are to communicate the same to the
Governor of the Isle, and with his assistance, to give it in charge to
the press masters. |
|
20. Order referring the request of Thos. Andrews and And.
Haliburton, merchants of London, to be allowed to export the value
of 4,000l. in pieces of 8 to the East Indies, to the Customs' Commissioners, to certify. Annexing, |
|
3. Request alluded to, 15 Dec. 1656. [Scrap.] |
|
22, 23. Mr. Moreland to attend Council next Tuesday, and give
account concerning the state of the Protestants in Piedmont, and the
Committee for the collection for them to meet him, and receive his
account of moneys transmitted for their relief. |
|
24. The petition and papers of Francis Smith, of Chelsea, referred
to any 3 of Council, to report. |
|
25. The report from the Committee on Capt. Sheild's information
concerning words spoken by Cornet Constable against Lord Claypole
to be considered at Council's next sitting. |
|
26. Order—on Lambert's report of the account of money disbursed by Maj.-Gen. Kelsey, for travelling charges for himself
and others, sent to bring plate from Portsmouth to London, which
Mr. Jessop certified to amount to 230l. 3s. 11½d.—that his Highness
be advised to order payment. |
|
27. The petition of Rich. Shalcross, for discharge from the extraordinary tax set on lands mentioned in deeds recited in the petition,
referred to the Major General and Commissioners for co. Derby, to
settle the matter at their next full meeting. Approved 8 Jan. |
|
28. The petition of Sir Ralph Sydenham, of Youlston, co. Devon,
for discharge from the extraordinary tax, referred to the Major
General and Commissioners of co. Devon, to consider as to his
discharge from further proceedings, and act as they judge meet.
Approved 8 Jan. |
|
29. Order on a paper from Lord Nieuport, ambassador from the
United Provinces, concerning the Charity of Rotterdam, seized on her
way to Bilboa by a State's ship, and brought to Dover—that
Strickland, Wolsley, and Jones inquire into the case, and report. |
|
30. The order of 4 Sept. [see p. 97, supra.] about Maj.-Gen.
Worsley's widow and children, given to avoid suits or trouble, is not
to extend to lands worth 14l. a year purchased by the major since
the settling of his estate, but only to the lands in difference between
the parties, in respect of the former settlement. |
|
32. Approval by the Protector of 7 orders of 23 and 25 Dec.
[I. 77, pp. 604–611.] |
Jan. 1.
Navy Office. |
4. Navy Commissioners to the Admiralty Commissioners. According to your order of 27 Nov., we have consulted with Vice-Admiral
Badiley, and other persons, touching the serviceableness of some
pricked wines for making beverage, and think them not proper for
use; but we presume the fleet may be supplied with better wines
and at easier rates, both from Portugal and other parts. We send
a letter from Mr. Longland, who will probably comply in case you
give order therein. [2/3 page.] Enclosing, |
|
4. i. Chas. Longland to Vice-Admiral Rich. Badiley. I see by
your letters that, with much ado, you had got a peace
with Portugal; you may thereby guess what strong
affections that King has to us, who is so hardly brought
to peace, which I believe will last no longer than it turns
him to account. His ambassador at Rome (or to say
better, one that would be his ambassador there) has been
labouring these 12 months for reception from the Pope,
with 6 millions gratuity for him in his hand, but the
Spanish party is so strong that he cannot be admitted
openly, although the French are in a manner fallen out
with the Pope about it; but 'tis said he has been privately
received, and the Pope has restored Episcopacy, creating
such bishops as the King desires; of so great a poweris
his millions. Any indifferent, disinterested man would
tax King John's judgment for purchasing the Pope's
friendship at so high a rate, and slighting the Protector's
although he has it gratis (for I account the money he pays
to be a debt, the charge of the fleet in the year 1650), but
this is according to the prophetic revelation, "All the
world shall wander after the beast, and kings shall
give their power or strength unto her until the appointed time." I know not how it may please God to
prosper this peace with Portugal, for there has been much
dissimulation used by that King, and bloody cruelties
even in the very signing of the articles. I doubt he may
prove a Benhadad. |
|
I am very sorry for the loss of the Cullen, with so much
ammunition, which has prevented your land service.
From your first setting out of England, I was always
of opinion that such a fleet as yours had a further design
than to tack to and again off the South Cape (like the
French army of 40,000 men), and to take a port in
Spain would have been rather a burden than a benefit,
because no part of Spain can yield provisions for our
fleet; but a Spanish port in Barbary, such as Oran, or
Mamora, methinks had been an enterprise worth your
undertaking, where you might have careened your ships,
and refreshed and victualled them, and your men.
Whether Oran be a good port, I know not; but if it
were ours, it would be of great concernment to our
nation, for the ships that go and come from Turkey,
and I am confident might be made a seat of great trade
for the coast of Barbary. |
|
I have been oftentimes thinking to send you a ship of
beverage wine, but it would cost 20 dollars the butt, and
I suppose you have it cheaper in Portugal; however, if
you have the least occasion, upon your advice, I will
furnish you with 5 or 600 butts. I am sorry the wine
I sent proved sour, and the 2 chests I sent by Capt. Hare
proved but one, and that his own too. I sent the General
4 by him also, but never heard what became of them; he
may have presented them or part of them in his own
name, but I paid the freight for all, and gave him a
chest besides to be careful of them, but knavery is so
grafted in some men that there is no truth left. Capt.
Cox will deliver you a couple of chests of old Saragossa
wine, a cup of which, in raw cold weather, will not
be amiss; the General may like it, pray deliver him a
chest. |
|
We have freighted 2 Dutch ships from Muscovy to bring
some caviare and hides from Archangel, which was done
for 2 reasons, viz., that we have them for half the freight
of English ships and the Dutch give content, and not discourtesies as I received from Capt. Hare. If you or the
General should meet them, I beg you will send a frigate
with them hither, as 5/Case of Edw. Basse. Losses 13; ths of the caviare belongs to me, and
my friend Mr. Smith, and all the Muscovy Company are
interested in the hides; so that you will do a courtesy
to all, and we will give the captain 100 pistoles. We
would rather do this than they should wait 3 days for a
Dutch convoy, as these convoys call in all ports, and we
want speed. Leghorn, 4 Oct. 1656. [3½ pages.] |
Jan. 1.
Deptford. |
5. J. Evelyn to the Navy Commissioners. I beg an order for
a survey of the sluice adjoining Drake's dock in the State's yard
at Deptford, and for its repair; as upon the rising of the spring
tide, the water not only threatens the little ground of mine contiguous to the defect, but also the whole level; and if not seen to,
the same great and unexpected danger may again occur as happened
to the marshes at Greenwich, and our neighbours thereabouts. A
small expense will now secure the work, which concerns the public
interest as well as private persons. [2/3 page.] |
Jan. 1.
Great President, Plymouth Sound. |
Jno. Thomson to Rob. Thomson, Navy Commissioner. Hearing
of your magnanimity, I become a suitor to you. I was brought up
to merchandize, but having lost a considerable estate at sea during
the wars, I entered the service, and expected to be entertained by
my neighbour, Vice-Admiral Lawson, but was frustrated through
his resigning; I then entered the Great President, the master
being my friend, and if Capt. Sacheverell had lived, he would have
endeavoured my preferment. I officiated in Capt. Fenn's time as his
clerk, and being employed about our provisions, had no opportunity
to accept his proffer on his removal into the Bristol. Capt. Potter,
our present commander, although a gentleman, is a stranger to me,
and has others to serve. I beg you to accept or recommend me,
as I would rather serve those of my own name. Being sprung
from an ancient family in Yorkshire, I will never act anything to
their dishonour, and would rather serve those of my own name.
[1 page.] |
Jan. 3.
Whitehall. |
7. Petition of Major Edw. Basse to the Protector. You have
been pleased to notice my constant adherence to Parliament, and
my losses and sufferings, and I am encouraged, by your kind express
sions to me and about me to Step. Marshall before his death, to beg
a proportion of the small remains of Dean and Chapter lands and
fee-farm rents that lie straggling up and down. I have spent many
years in attendance, am growing old, and have a wife and 6 children
unprovided for. With order thereon that petitioner apply to the
Privy Council with particulars of what he wants, and that they
consider the case speedily. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|
7. i. Case of Edw. Basse. Losses by debts
owing from the late King's party
|
18,000 |
0 |
0 |
|
Loss of a trade worth 1,500l. a year for
15 years
|
22,500 |
0 |
0 |
|
Loss of an office under the Great Seal,
worth 250l. a year for 2 lives
|
6,500 |
0 |
0 |
|
Debts of the late King and Queen, beside
the 4,500l. allowed by Parliament
|
4,085 |
12 |
0 |
|
He pleads that numerous others have had allowances for
offices and debts, &c. [1 page.] |
|
|
7. ii. Notes on his case that he was one of the first in arms,
and had hopes from the late King, from Parliament, and
from his Highness, &c. |
|
7. iii. Note of lands, fee-farm rents, &c., from which he requests
compensation. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 3/13. |
8. Edw. Norris to Williamson. I wish myself at Paris, where I
hope to see you, but I think I must remain here 8 months. I fear
to say anything in praise of Blois. [1 page, French, damaged.] |
Jan. 3/13.
Paris. |
9. G. Stradling to Williamson. I am glad you received the 110l.
I sent, but sorry that our return to Blois failed. The money due
to Mr. Norris has been returned to me, and I do not know how to
get the remaining 100l. paid at Blois, as I know no merchant that
trades there. Thanks for your kindness; I will try to serve you
punctually. I cannot hear of Mr. Lowther's having been here.
I will enquire further. |
|
I hear from Flanders that the King of Spain having granted free
quarter to all that will assist the King of England, there is a
great concourse to him of English, Scotch, and Irish, who are well
paid, and several regiments are formed. Great assistance is promised by the House of Austria and the German princes, but our
intelligencers say they will not be used till the King is ready to
pass over into England, both to conceal his strength, and to avoid
the charge of paying so large an army. I hear from Sir Rich.
Browne and others that the Hollanders are like to quarrel with
England. |
|
Last week 400 English soldiers forced their officers, who were
carrying them to Dieppe, into Dunkirk. Private affairs. |
|
P.S.—One Capt. Gouldin is come in to the King of England in
Flanders, with a ship of 28 guns; a good leading card to the rest of
his rough tribe. [2 pages.] |
| Jan. 3. |
10. Grant by Edw. Bysshe, Garter King-at-Arms, to Col. Ralph
Cobbett, Governor of Dundee, sheriff for co. Forfar and J.P., of a
coat of arms, viz., argent, a chevron hamecté, gules, between 3 ravens
proper, with trefoils in their beaks. Crest on a helmet, and wreath
of his colours, a raven volant, or, pelleté, in his beak a laurel branch
[Draft, corrected, 2 pages.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
11. Appeal by 7 Quakers, prisoners for conscience sake in
Horsham gaol though they have hazarded their lives for the
nation, to the Protector. Thos. Patching, Bryant Wilkinson, and
John Fursby have been 24 weeks in gaol, committed by justices
for owning some books set out by Quakers, and publicly sold,
containing an account of the state of regeneration, but no sedition. |
|
Ninian Brocket, committed for refusing to swear at the county
sessions, and not doffing his hat. |
|
Nich. Rickman, committed by Thos. Sutton, Mayor of Arundel,
for writing a paper containing nothing against the present Government or godliness. |
|
Margaret, wife of Wilkinson, and Frances, wife of Rickman,
taken from their children and servants, only for speaking, as moved
of the Lord, a word to 2 priests. |
|
We present our wrongs to thee, knowing that when David was
King, divers suffered by his officers, contrary to his will, and without his privity, and we hear that thou hast declared that none
in this nation shall suffer for conscience. 23 Nov. 1656. With
order signed by the Protector, 2 Dec. 1656, that Col. Geo. Fenwick,
Major Fenwick, and Thos. Moore, examine whether they were
committed to prison according to law, and certify. 2 Dec. 1656.
[1¼ pages.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
12. Information that Thos. Laycock, who engaged his life in the
service, was taken out of the house of his friend Nich. Rickman, by
Thos. Sutton, Mayor of Arundel, on 10 Nov., sent to the Bridewell
as a vagabond, kept 10 days in a damp room, without fire or candle,
inhumanly beaten, and his friends not allowed to see him [Scrap.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
13. Note that Rich. Luckin, gaoler at Horsham, was committed
by some of the justices to the house of correction for allowing the
said prisoners a little liberty sometimes, and has been there 6 or 8
weeks. [Scrap.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
14, 15. Reference signed by the Protector of these papers to
Lieut.-Col. Fenton, Methuselah Turner, Rich. Eccleston, Rich. Smith,
and Thos. Moore, to certify whether the persons have been committed
according to law, 5 Dec. 1656; and their report, 24 Dec., that they
sat 15–17 Dec., examined the prisoners, justices, gaoler, and keeper,
and the mittimuses, and find— |
|
1. Patching committed 21 May 1656, for not giving security
for his appearance about publishing seditious books, and
for his good behaviour. |
|
2, 3. Fursby and Wilkinson 9 June, for endeavouring to publish
scandalous books, and refusing security. |
|
4. Laycock 10 Nov. 1656, to the house of correction at Arundel,
as a disorderly wanderer. |
|
5. Rickman 10 Nov. 1656, to Horsham gaol, for not finding
securities. |
|
6. Frances Rickman 10 Nov., for misbehaviour and refusing to
find sureties. |
|
7. Marg. Wilkinson 16 Nov., for disturbing John Chatfield in his
sermon. |
|
8. Brockett 6 Oct., for refusing to plead to an indictment. |
|
9. Luckin to the house of correction, near Lewes, 11 Oct., for
suffering great assemblies of people to have access to his
prisoners, and disperse seditious books among them, and for
setting them at liberty without warrant. |
|
They consider the commitments illegal— |
|
(1.) Because of the insufficiency of the crimes. |
|
(2.) Because the mittimuses do not provide for their delivery
by course of law. |
|
(3.) Because they were not brought to trial the next sessions. |
|
(4.) Because the whole process seems to be for matter of
opinion in worship, and therefore counsel their enlargement. Signed by Turner, Eccleston, Fenlon, and Moore.
[2 papers.] |
| Jan. 6. |
16. Reference in Council of all the above papers to Pickering,
Desborow, the Lord Deputy, Lambert, Lisle, and Fiennes, to speak
with the certifiers, enquire how the referees pursued their reference,
and report. [1 page; also I. 77, p. 612.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
17, 18. Petition of Rob. Jennings to the Protector. Though I have
submitted to your government, yet I was ejected at the visitation
of co. Oxon, because I was educated at Oxford when the late King's
garrison was in the town, though I was imprisoned for refusing to
go upon the guards, and never meddled in the differences between
him and Parliament. I have quitted my employment in obedience
to your order, but without your help I am ruined, having no maintenance but what I can gain by my learning. With reference, 20 May
1656, to the Maj.-General and county Commissioners of Berkshire, to
enquire and report, and meantime to stay further proceedings; and
their report that Jennings was ejected in 1648, when very young,
but has not offended since, and has a minister's certificate for
learning and goodness, and should therefore be examined by the
Committee for Approbation of Preachers. Signed by Col. W.
Goffe, and 5 others. [1 page.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
19. Petition renewed to be freed from ejectment, and enabled to
serve his generation according to his ability. With reference to
Privy Council, 27 Nov. 1656. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Order thereon that the Committee for Approbation of Ministers
examine him, and approve him if they see cause. Approved 8 Jan.
[I. 77, pp. 612, 621.] |
| Jan. 6. |
20. Petition of Sir Thos. Vyner and Edward Backwell, goldsmith of London, to the Protector and Council. On 30 Oct.
1656, they contracted for all the Spanish bars, pieces of 8, and
plate brought to Portsmouth by Gen. Montague, before seeing them,
at 5s. 4d. the ounce for the Spanish assay of 2380, which is to be
18 pennyweights better, and so in proportion according to the fineness marked on the bars; were informed that the Spanish assays
were reformed, but this silver was marked 3 years since, and many
of the assays upon the bars are found falsified from 1d. to 6d. the
oz., and in one great bar, near a quarter of the whole bar. In
the whole quantity there were but two bars of the full fineness of
18 pennyweights better, which is 2380, by which finest silver they
cannot make 1d. in the ounce towards advance of money and provision; have already paid into the Exchequer 130,000l., being at
great charge in procuring and paying interest for the same, for the
speedy supply of his Highness. Beg a warrant to transport
10,000l. in pieces of 8, and 50 of the worst bars custom free,
without which they will suffer great damage. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Reference thereon to Lambert, Jones, Desborow, and Sydenham,
to report. [I. 77, p. 613.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
21. Barth. Wormell, deputy-mayor of Lynn, and 4 others, to
Gen. John Desborow. Capt. Jeremiah Courtney has had an engagement with a Dunkirk man-of-war on the coast, when the captain
and 7 of his men were dangerously wounded. We have had their
wounds tended, and beg you to report this to Council, that we may
be paid our charges. In times of peace, we traded with those of
Flanders, so that they know our creeks, and will spoil our trade,
for rich vessels come from London, &c., and there is no convoy.
We beg you, as the Dunkirker escaped, and carried away a hoy
which was under convoy of the Roe ketch, to take steps for
guard of the coast and preservation of trade, as Courtney cannot
soon be cured of his wounds. Lynn, 2 Jan. 1656–7. [1 page.]
Annexing, |
|
21. i. Information of Fras. Pile, master of the Roe ketch. Particulars of the engagement between the Roe ketch and the
Dunkirker, which carried away a hoy of Boston that
was under convoy of the Roe. 1 Jan. 1656–7. [¾ page.] |
| Jan. 6. |
22. Order thereon in Council, that a convoy be appointed for
that coast, and that the letter of information be sent to the
Admiralty Commissioners, to take care for the preservation of trade.
[2/3 page; also I. 77, pp. 613–4.] |
| Jan. 6. |
23. Petition of Step. Bownd, minister, to the Protector. I am a
great sufferer by the malicious oaths of the malignants, and am
ejected by the late Act, though with great reluctance by the Commissioners, and to the grief of many godly Christians, as is known
to Lord Rich. Cromwell. I have many testimonies of good conversation and abilities from my neighbours and godly ministers in co.
Hants, and I feel a call to preach the Word. I beg restoration at
the desire of the people, or leave to labour elsewhere. I shall
pray that, having lived amongst us a glorious ruler, you may for
ever reign with the King of glory. With reference to Council,
signed by the Protector, 27 Nov. 1656. [1 sheet.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Order—on the above petition, and on a certificate by Mr. Whitfield and Ellis, ministers at Winchester and others, that the
well-affected godly inhabitants of Bursledonne and Hamble have
certified in his favour, and desired his re-establishment—that he
apply to the Committee for Approbation of Preachers, who are to
examine him, and admit him if they find cause. Approved 8 Jan.
[I. 77, pp.618, 621.] |
| [Jan. 6.] |
24. Petition of Avis, widow of Fras. Gill, to the Protector.
Your Highness referred my petition for my husband's arrears to the
Admiralty Commissioners, who found 36l. 15s. 0d. to be justly due.
I beg an order for payment, being feeble and past work, and having
nothing else to live on. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
24. i. ii. Certificates by Geo. Payler, surveyor, and Barth.
Beale, auditor, that 36l. 15s. is due for Gill's service in
the Armoury Office, since 10 Aug. 1647. 27 Jan. 1653–4
and 1 June 1655. [2 papers.] |
|
24. iii. Report by the Admiralty Commissioners that the said
arrears are due, but they know not how to relieve the
petitioner. 6 Feb. 1655–6. [2/3 page.] |
| Jan. 6. |
25. Reference thereon by Council to Pickering, Sydenham, Desborow, Lord Deputy, Jones, and Wolsley, to consider how the debt
can best be paid, and also the case of the late gunners of the
Tower, how their arrears are to be satisfied, and to report. [1 page;
also I. 77, p. 620.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Papers relating to the incorporation of Abergavenny, viz.:— |
|
26, 26a. Heads of a proposed charter for Abergavenny; the
portions in brackets were omitted after discussion in Council, and
those in italics were inserted by Council; the remainder were passed. |
|
(1.) The town to be incorporated under a mayor, 2 bailiffs, and
12 burgesses, and the first mayor and bailiffs to be justices
of peace [during life and good behaviour]. |
|
(2.) A court of record to be held every fortnight, or oftener, for
actions not exceeding 40l. in value [the fees to be such as
in other corporate towns, and reserved to the mayor and
bailiffs]. |
|
(3.) A recorder to be appointed, to hold sessions with the present
mayor, bailiffs, precedent mayor, and eldest burgesses. |
|
(4.) Also a town clerk to be appointed. |
|
(5.) The mayor to be clerk of the market for registration of
weights and measures. |
|
(6.) The mayor and bailiffs to appoint an alnager for regulation
of cloths made in the town. |
|
(7.) The mayor and bailiffs to be elected yearly on 29 Sept.,
from the capital burgesses. |
|
(8.) Also 2 surveyors of the bridge. |
|
(9.) The present mayor and bailiffs to be sworn before the
recorder and capital burgesses, and all other officers before
them. |
|
(10.) The mayor and bailiffs to appoint 2 serjeants for whom they
will answer, to keep the town prison, and to execute all
processes from the Court, and the present gatehouse,
anciently used for a prison, to be the town prison and
house of correction. |
|
(11.) The corporation to have the use of the market house or
town hall for keeping courts. |
|
(12.) The 2 weekly markets and 3 yearly fairs to be continued. |
|
[(13.) All burgesses to be exempted from juries, except before the
justices of assize and general gaol delivery.] |
|
(14.) The town and liberties to be of the same extent as formerly. |
|
(15.) That there be a town seal. |
|
(16.) The corporation to make ordinances for government of the
town, not repugnant to law. |
|
(17.) Any refusing to execute office when elected to be fined till
they submit; the fines to be to the use of the town, and
not to exceed 10l., and the party to be worth 10l. a year in
lands, or 200l. in personal estate. |
|
(18.) Any of the corporation to appoint deputies in case of
sickness or absence, to be approved by the other burgesses. |
|
[(19.) The mayor, bailiffs, and recorder to see that grain is brought
to the market to be sold, and not sold privately, forestalling
the market.] |
|
[(20.) The corporation to have the toll of grain, and all that has
been accustomed to pay toll.] |
|
(21.) The justices may commit to the town prison for breach of
peace, and to the county gaol for felony, murder, treason,
&c. Noted as left to be advised upon. |
|
(22.) The corporation may purchase lands in mortmain, value
100l. a year, for the use of the town. |
|
(23.) The first mayor and bailiffs to continue in office till
29 Sept. 1658. |
|
(24.) That there be 2 chamberlains. |
|
(25.) That the mayor be custos rotulorum and coroner for the
town. |
|
A proviso to be added, that this charter shall not disable the
county justices of peace to act in the town when there, as amply as
before. [Two drafts, 2 sheets each.] |
|
26. ii. Wm. Sheppard and Gab. Beck to Privy Council. We
present the heads of a new charter for Abergavenny; it contains
nothing more than in the charter of 14 Charles, except that there is
to be a mayor, and he is to be custos rotulorum and coroner. It
should be passed with a proviso for Lord Abergavenny and his
heirs, 27 Nov. 1656. [1 sheet] |
|
26. iii. List of the persons approved as the first members of the
corporation. |
|
John Rogers, Mayor. |
|
Jas. Harris, |
Bailiffs. |
|
Chris. Price, |
|
John Hagget, Recorder. |
|
Lewis Harris, Town Clerk. |
|
Edw. Lewis, Chamberlains. |
|
Phil. Morgan, Chamberlains. |
|
Walter Morgan, |
Capital burgesses. |
|
David Morgan, |
|
Geo. Roberts, |
|
John Stevens, |
|
Nicodemus Simonds, |
|
Thos. Jones, |
|
Chris. Vertey, |
|
Lewis Boddy, |
|
Edw. Lewis, |
|
Phil. Morgan, |
|
Walter Morgan, |
|
John Lewis, |
|
[1 page.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Order thereon in Council approving the said charter, and
referring it to counsel-at-law, to be prepared if they approve.
[I. 77, pp. 614–5.] |
| Jan. 6. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
3. Order—on report by the Lord Deputy that he has spoken
with the Lord Chief Justice about Major Walters' arrest—that the
former Commissioners speak with the Admiralty Judges, Mr.
Skinner attending, and report. |
|
4. Order—on consideration of a writ of habeas corpus from the
Upper Bench to the keeper of Carnarvon Castle, for Thos. Pugh and
Wm. Jones, prisoners there, to be brought into that court, with the
cause of their detention, they being committed by order of the
Major General and Commissioners of the county—that Lambert,
Fiennes, Jones, Desborow, and Sydenham, learn the ground of their
committal, speak with them and the Chief Justices of the Upper
Bench, and report. |
|
5. Order—on Fiennes' report that, according to order, he spoke
with the Chief Justice of the Upper Bench concerning the suit
against Dr. Palmer, warden of All Souls, Oxford—that Fiennes,
Lambert, Jones, and Sydenham, speak with Dr. Owen, Dr. Palmer,
or some other member of the University, according to the purport
of this day's debate. |
|
10. The report in the business of the Marlborough Charter to be
considered first next Thursday. |
|
11. The petition of Edward, Earl of Meath, referred to the Irish
Committee, to report. |
|
12. Order—on Strickland's report from the Committee on the
Dutch ship Charity [see p. 226, supra], laden with salmon and
herrings, which was taken and brought by the Oxford to Dover, and
on a report from the Admiralty Commissioners—that she be allowed
to proceed on her voyage. |
|
13. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay from
the receipts on Sir Thos. Vyner and Mr. Backwell's contract for the
prize plate and money brought from Portsmouth, 10,000l. on account
to the War-treasurers, towards payment of forces in Ireland. |
|
27. 14, 15. Order that as on 1 Oct. last [see p. 120, supra]
40,000l. was ordered for Ireland, Council advise that 10,000l. of it
be sent speedily from the money to be paid in by Vyner and
Backwell, and 20,000l. from the moneys designed for the forces, to
be sent by waggon to Chester, and thence transported in a fit ship,
which the Admiralty Commissioners are to order, to Dublin.
Approved 8 Jan. |
|
17. Order—on report from the Committee on the petition of the
merchants and owners of the Report, complaining that she was
accidentally sunk by the Ruby frigate, and that Thos. Horth, who
was principal owner, has been much impoverished by this and other
losses—to advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay
1,000l. to Horth out of prize ships or goods' money, other than
those brought in by Gen. Montague. |
|
18. The report of Maj.-Gen. Goffe and other referees on the
petition of Rich. Norton, concerning the lodges of 3 forests in co.
Hants, with the papers annexed, referred to Lambert, Wolsley, Lord
Deputy, Jones, Sydenham, Strickland, and Pickering, to report. |
|
19. Order—on petition of Jo. Stocks to be restored to the
capacity of preacher, and on certificate from Maj.-Gen. Lilburne and
other Commissioners for co. York, certifying the returns made to
them from fellow Commissioners adjacent to the petitioner's residence,
concerning his peaceable disposition and fitness for re-admission to
the ministry—that Strickland consult Maj.-Gen. Lilburne about
him, and report further. |
|
20. Order to advise payment to Maj.-Gen. Kelsey of 419l. 16s. 6d.
certified to be due to Capt. Cadwell's militia troop in Kent, from
midsummer till the order for their disbanding last December. |
|
22. Order on report from the Committee on Sir John Temple's
petition, that 300l. be paid him for the present out of the public
treasury in Ireland by the Lord Deputy and Council, and that the
residue of the money due on his account be respited till he is heard,
and till a more convenient time for further satisfaction. Approved
3 Jan. Annexing, |
|
28. Report of Col. Mackworth and Viscount Lisle on which this
order is founded. [1 page.] |
|
23. The Committee's report on Capt. Nary's petition to be
considered next Thursday. |
|
29. 24. Order—on considering the letters and depositions relating
to the wreck of the Two Brothers on the coast of Ireland, and the
defectiveness of the Sapphire, bound for Jamaica—that the cases be
referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to take further evidence,
confer with Mr. Noel and others as to the loss sustained by the
State thereby, and report. |
|
30. 25. Order to the Admiralty Commissioners to appoint a
convoy for 100 leagues for the Plain Dealing at Kinsale, taken up
for Jamaica in place of the Sapphire, which is defective, and to
give notice to Lord Hen. Cromwell of this direction. |
|
26. Next Thursday Mr. Moreland is to give Council an account
of the whole proceedings concerning the Protestants in Piedmont. |
|
27. Mr. Secretary to consider what part of Moreland's transactions
in the above matter should be communicated to-morrow to the
Piedmont Commissioners, and Moreland to communicate accordingly
what part Mr. Secretary advises. |
|
28. Order on a report from the Army Commissioners on the
petition of Wm. Tills [see 11 Dec. 1656], ordering him the pay due to
him for 32 days as surgeon, on the musters of 2 and 30 June, and
28 July 1651. Approved 8 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 611–620.] Annexing, |
|
31. Report alluded to, 25 Dec. 1656. [2/3 page.] |
Jan. 7.
London. |
32. Sir Fras. Norris to Williamson. I wonder at having no
receipt for the 50l. My wife and I want Ned home this March. I
hope he understands French well; since he left you, we have not
heard so often, which is a great trouble to us. Has Mr. Whorwood
come over ?. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 7/17. |
33. Chas. Perrott to Williamson. We have now arrived at Paris, after
being much cheated by the zealous reformists, under cloak of religion,
especially at Montauban. I suppose you have the news of one Naylor,
a Quaker in England, who pretended to be the Messiah, and carried
about with him 12 apostles, and 2 sinful Magdalens; but that fancy
will be jerked out of him by his sentence. I wish his apostles the
same persecution. Two of that set lately passed by Paris, and were
found starving in the streets, but some English gentleman, not
knowing that religion, relieved them. They said they were
ambassadors from the Lord to the Duke of Savoy, and despaired not
of the gift of tongues, for the Lord had told them they should have
success. |
|
The King is providing a ballet without ladies, on account of
Mdlle. Mancini's death. Levies go on in Flanders for 5 regiments;
the Irish are sent for, but Mar[shal Turenne] cries No, and has
ordered the contrary. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 8. |
34 Hum. Robinson to Williamson. I hope you had a bill at double
usance on Mr. Cresset for 221 crowns. I hear no more of your
bookseller. Calander's landlady will not pay that petty debt without an order. Mr. Lowther is well, and expects to hear from you.
Sir F. Norris was at my shop yesterday, and is uneasy at not
hearing. Lamplugh is attending at Whitehall about a better living
near Reading. |
|
The Protector and Parliament do not agree, which may shorten
their sitting. It is whispered that France and Spain agree, so we
should then be engaged more than ever. Private affairs. [2/3 pages.] |
| Jan. 8. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Approval by the Protector of 12 orders, 23 Dec. 1656 to 6 Jan.
1656–7. |
|
4. Order on report from the Committee on Mr. Maidstone's
desires concerning his Highness' household expenses, that the
Treasury Commissioners advance him, out of what comes in on
Vyner and Backwell's contract for prize plate, &c., from Portsmouth,
part of the 16,000l. ordered by his Highness' warrant for the
quarter beginning Dec. 16. |
|
5. To complete the rest, viz., 12,000l., 1,000l. is to be paid weekly
from the profits of excise and customs, and for the future payment
of 16,000l. a quarter, 4,000l. to be paid at the beginning of the quarter
from the Exchequer, and the rest by 1,000l. weekly from the excise
and customs; Sydenham, Jones, Desborow, Strickland, and Lambert,
to consider and consult with the Admiralty Commissioners how the
said weekly 1,000l. may best be settled. |
|
7. The translation of a paper from the Venetian agent to
his Highness read, and the draft of a letter to Sir Thos. Bendish,
ambassador at Constantinople, considered and debated; Fiennes,
Lambert, and Lisle are to amend it, and report. |
|
10. The Admiralty Judges to see that M. Le Conte de Charrot,
governor of Calais, has justice done him, concerning his assistance in
taking a prize ship. |
|
11. The question whether the report on the petition of Wm. Paul
[see 2 Dec. 1656] should be further referred passed in the negative. |
|
12. Order that the business of Paul and Waller be considered on
Thursday. |
|
35–37. 13. Order that—as his Highness has appointed Abr.
Barrington to be one of the 2 auditors of prests and foreign accounts,
he being thereby appointed to take the accounts of the navy, with a
salary of 500l. a year, payable quarterly by the Navy Treasurer—a
warrant dormant be issued for payment of the said salary. With
the warrant suggested from the Admiralty Commissioners 11 Feb.
Approved 17 Jan. |
|
14. Order on petition of the inhabitants of Haverhill, cos.
Suffolk and Essex—that as the town is an old market town of great
trade, and very populous, and the vicarage profits for the minister
only 50l. a year, an augmentation may be settled on Geo. Moxon, the
minister—that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle a fit
augmentation accordingly. Approved 17 Jan. |
|
15. Approval of an order of the said Trustees of 20 Nov. last,
granting an augmentation of 100l. 13s. 0d. to Wm. Parish, minister
of Darlington, co. Durham. Approved by the Protector 17 Jan. |
|
16. The petition of the jury for the Court Leet and Court Baron
in East Greenwich Manor, co. Kent, directed to Lord Commissioner
Whitelock, as high steward of the manor, concerning the defectiveness of the great wharf adjoining the great manor house there,
referred to any 3 of Council, to enquire into and report. |
|
17. The petition of several serjeants' deputies, that the horses and
goods late of Francis, the highwayman, since executed, which were
seized by the petitioners, may be bestowed on them in reward for
their danger run in apprehending him, referred to a Committee, to
learn what the goods are worth, and whether any mesne lord is
interested therein, and to report. |
|
18. Order on report from the Committee on Capt. John Nary's
petition—that he, as captain of a troop of dragoons, raised in co.
Cumberland, was in 1650 commanded to march into Scotland; that the
troop, understanding that on their march a month's pay was due in
advance, according to an Act of Parliament, mutinied for nonpayment, and petitiouer had to pay the non-commissioned officers
and soldiers 280l. out of his own pocket, which, with the 18l. 13s. 4d.
due for his own month's pay, makes 298l. 13s. 4d. due to him—
that the said sum be paid him out of such part of the 150,000l.
assigned for payment of army arrears for Scotch service, between
20 May 1650 and 20 Oct. 1651, as was received by Sir John
Woollaston and the other late Treasurers, and is now in their hands,
and that the Army Committee give orders accordingly. Approved
17 Jan. |
|
19. Order that John Normanton, sen., of Speenhamland, co.
Berks—who attended Council when summoned on the petition of
Rich. Brambly, but has left the country without leave of Council,
and has not returned—be summoned to attend Council forthwith to
answer his contempt, and also charges against him by Brambly. |
|
21. The Earl of Rothes to have liberty to repair to Scotland
for managing his private affairs for 3 months, reckoned from the
expiration of the time formerly allowed him, on renewing his bond
before the Lieutenant of the Tower. Approved 17 Jan. |
|
22. The business of Mr. Rushworth and Mr. Rowe, registrars of the
Admiralty, concerning moneys received by the deputy-registrars
between Mr. Wyan's death and the date of their patent, to be
considered at the next sitting of Council. |
|
23. The draft of an order concerning the Trustees for confiscated
estates in Scotland to be read at the same time. |
|
38. 24. The Admiralty Commissioners to consider whether it
would not be convenient to appoint a consul at Tituan, on the coast
of Barbary. |
|
39. 25. Lord Falconbridge to have liberty to go into France with
his servants and necessaries, and the Admiralty Commissioners to
appoint a fit vessel for him. [I. 77, pp. 620–27.] |
| Jan. 12. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1. The examinations of Toop and Cecill read. |
|
2. Next Thursday (Jan. 15) appointed to return praises to God for
His mercy in the preservation of his Highness' person and otherwise
against the designs and attempts lately discovered. |
|
3. Mr. Caryll, Mr. Sterry, and Mr. Hooke to assist therein, and Mr.
Secretary to give them notice thereof. |
|
4. The Attorney-General, Solicitor-General, Attorney of the
Duchy, and Recorder of London to be here to-morrow afternoon, to
speak with a Committee of Council on to-day's debate, concerning
matters contained in an examination now read, and the said Committee, viz., Wolsley, Jones, Pickering, Sydenham, and Lord Deputy,
to assist them therein. |
|
5. To report to Parliament the examinations of Toop and Cecill. |
|
6.* The Attorney-General to order proceedings against Col. Ed.
Sexby next term in the Upper Bench, and the above-named Committee to speak with him thereon. |
|
7.* Order on information that several who have been in the
Irish rebellion, and others of debauched conversation are admitted
into the army—to advise an order to the officers of the army to
enlist no Irishmen as subordinate officers or soldiers, or continue such
in the army, nor any swearers, nor any who have borne arms against
the State and not given signal testimony of their good affection;
and to order the several captains, on pain of losing their places, to
examine the men in their respective regiments, and remove all such
as appear to come under the above exceptions, and enlist in their
places none but sober and loyal men; the Colonels to see that
these orders are executed at once, and the captains to report their
proceedings monthly. |
|
8. On information that the Lord Mayor was attending at the door,
he was called in and consulted on what was in debate concerning
Mr. Feake. |
|
10.* Whereas John Swinton, one of the Council in Scotland, is
also a Commissioner for administration of justice in Scotland, order
that besides his salary as member of Council, he have 300l. a year
as Commissioner, and the Council of Scotland to issue warrants for
its payment. |
|
11.* David Jenkins, now a prisoner in Windsor Castle, to be
discharged, and allowed to come to Gray's Inn. [I. 77, pp. 627–629.] |
| Jan. 13. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.) |
|
1. Approval of a certificate from the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, that on an order from the Committee for reformation of
Universities, they paid an augmentation of 35l. a year to John Tabor,
late minister of Hursley, co. Hants, who has since removed, and
think fit to continue it to Walter Marshall, his successor, an approved
preacher. Approved by the Protector 17 Jan. |
|
2. The quorum of the Committee of Council appointed by yesterday's order to speak with counsel learned to be two, and Strickland
added to the Committee. |
|
3, 4. On report from the Committee on the petition of several
doctors of physic in Scotland, after several proceedings in the
case, and hearing the Provost of Edinburgh on the city's behalf, and
Dr. Purvis for the petitioners, that the Provost and the doctors
have come to an agreement, which was now presented in writing
under both their hands:—Order that his Highness' counsel learned
prepare the draft of a patent according to the purport of the said
writing, and certify the same to Council. |
|
5. An additional instruction for the Council of Scotland, reported
by Lambert, read, viz.:— |
|
6. Whereas by the 10th Article of the Instructions to the Council
of Scotland, the said Council or any 5 of them are empowered for
6 months to charge certain receipts in Scotland for payment of
salaries for the judges, sequestration commissioners, and other officers,
for defraying the charges of administration of justice, and for contingencies, and this power was continued 6 months longer by order
of his Highness and Council of 29 Feb. 1655–6, but is now expired
—order that the same power be continued to the said Council or any
3 of them, till further order. |
|
7. His Highness advised to agree to and sign the above
instruction. |
|
8. The petition of Peter de Beauvoir, bailiff of Guernsey, authorized by the Commissioners appointed by Council in that island
concerning the estate of Henry de Vic, referred to the Treasury
Commissioners, to report. |
|
9. A paper signed by Col. Bingham, governor of Guernsey, and
presented by Peter de Beauvoir, concerning the observation of the
Sabbath Day, and a matter referring to the Court of Justice there,
referred to Rous, Wolsley, Lisle, Strickland, Lord Deputy, Skippon,
Mulgrave, Desborow, and Lambert, to report. |
|
10. A letter from the Admiralty Judges concerning the Charity of
Rotterdam read. |
|
11. Order—on report from the Treasury Commissioners on his
Highness' reference of the petition of Francis Smith, of Chelsea,
showing that Gualter Frost, deceased, and the petitioner, buying of
Thos. Fisher in 1642 half the ship Bennett of Sandwich, for 250l.,
paid him 100l., and gave bond to pay the rest within 3 days after
notice of her arrival at Dublin, whither she was bound with provisions for the State; and that—though it appears by acquittance that
the petitioner paid Fisher 75l. for his half of the remainder and
received from him full discharge, and that probably the other part
was fully paid by Frost,—Fisher has demanded it from Frost's
relations, and proceeded against Smith so far at law as to seize his
goods and try to take his person in execution, on pretence of the
said debt, alleged to be 60l. and upwards—to advise an order to the
Treasury Commissioners to pay Smith 60l. for his loss by proceedings against him, as the ship was in the State's service; and to
recommend the Attorney and Solicitor General to assist Smith in the
Chancery Court, if fit, for relief against Fisher.
His Highness present. |
|
12. Order—on report from the Council of the heads of a charter for
the corporation of Marlborough, as prepared by Mr. Shephard and
others of the Committee on Charters, and on a report from Shephard
and Beck, which were read, and a few amendments agreed to—that
the Attorney-General peruse the heads as amended, and prepare the
draft of a charter in accordance with them. |
|
13. The Committee on Charters to consider a draft charter
prepared by Mr. Shephard for Leeds Corporation, and report. |
|
14. In the charter for Woodstock Corporation, a clause to be
inserted for 2 additional fairs to be held on the days desired on
behalf of the town, and another clause for electing one burgess for
Parliament. |
|
15.* The Major General, and any 3 Commissioners for co. Essex
now in town to consider Sir Thos. Wiseman's petition and certificate,
and report their advice. |
|
16. A report from the Treasury Commissioners on a reference of
the petition of Jos. Beverley, referred to Mulgrave, Desborow,
Lambert, Strickland, Lisle, and the Lord Deputy, to consider the report
and case, speak with some of the Yorkshire gentlemen, and report. |
|
17. The Admiralty Commissioners to consider a paper entitled "The
"State and Condition of the Pensioners and Patients of Ely House
and Savoy Hospital, in relation to their weekly allowance,"
concerning an arrear of 5 weeks' pay, viz., 3,675l., enquire into the
case, and report their advice. |
|
18.* Order on petition of the inhabitants of Kenilworth, co.
Warwick,—that the town contains 250 families, and is supplied by
Mr. Woodhall, a godly minister, whose maintenance is 50l. a year—
that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle on Kenilworth
an augmentation of 60l. |
|
19. Order—on report from the Admiralty Commissioners, on an
order of Dec. 24, 1656, of a list of ships at sea and in port, and that
a large sum will be wanted for their repairs—that Desborow, Lord
Deputy, Sydenham, and Wolsley, consult with the Admiralty Commissioners, and report their advice as to what should be done.
His Highness withdrew. |
|
21. Order that on payment of the fine mentioned in an order of
Nov. 13, 1656, on the petition of the creditors of confiscated persons
in Scotland, the Trustees named by the Ordinance for settling
estates of excepted persons in Scotland be discharged for all matters
relating to the said estates, wherein they have acted on this Ordinance
or on the Ordinance of Pardon and Grace. Also that on exhibiting
their accounts to the Council in Scotland for moneys they received
from estates and disbursed to creditors or others to whom it was
due, the said accounts are to be audited, and the Trustees to have
full discharge given, and that Council allow the Trustees fit payment for their services out of arrears of rents due; and if these are
not sufficient, report. Approved 17 Jan. |
|
22. The draft of a commission prepared by and directed to the
Treasury Commissioners, according to his Highness' Commission for
Discoveries of May 23, 1656, to be considered at Council's next
meeting. |
|
23. The petition and papers of Sir James Hope, for himself and
many poor workers about his mines at Leadhill in Scotland, referred
to the Scotch Committee, to report. |
|
24. Lord Ogilvy, now a prisoner in the Tower, to have liberty to
go into Scotland, and stay till further order, on giving security
to Sir John Barkstead, in bond for 20,000l., with approved sureties,
to give himself up to the said Lieutenant of the Tower, or at any
other place in Scotland which he shall appoint, within a convenient
time after notice, and meantime to act nothing against this State,
and the lieutenant to carry this order out accordingly. Approved
17 Jan. |
|
25. Order that Capt. Thos. Constable have the benefit of his order
of 16 April 1656, to receive 4,348l. 15s. due to him for arrears from
½ of the discoveries he has made or shall make. |
|
26. A grant being made to Col. Thos. Ceely of a lease of Barton
Manor and several lands in South Milton, cos. Devon and Cornwall,
which he has discovered to be concealed, but which of right belong
to his Highness, and he has this lease to try the State's title, which
will inolve much expense:—Order that the lease pass gratis, without
payment of fees. [I. 77, pp. 630–636.] |
Jan. 13.
London. |
40 T. Lamplugh to Williamson. Your absence [from college] is
dispensed with till Michaelmas, but come sooner if you can. I hope
to put you on the first roll for election of fellows. Clem. Ellis and
Tim. Halton will be candidates. Private news. Play your cards so
that you be no loser by Mr. W[horwood]. Pay yourself, if you can,
in France, for little hopes of anything here; his father is the same
as he was. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 15. |
41. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. Sir F. [Norris] and his lady
are content with their news. Private affairs. M. Lerpiniere has
left out of his bill Calvin's works of 9 vols (which I have promised
and must have, though I pay him a little more) and other works.
I want them, and will send the money for them when the ship
comes from Nantes. |
|
Parliament has adjourned for a week, on account of the illness of
the Speaker; all the members were summoned to be here this week
or forfeit 20l. a man. Though Parliament has been so moulded, and
so many made incapable, yet Whitehall's expectations are not
answered. Here has been "Pray and fast," both at Whitehall and
the House. We hear our fleet is not successful. Last week a plot
was discovered; in the chapel in Whitehall were trains of powder,
and other combustibles to fire it, and meantime some desperadoes
were to assassinate the Protector. Part of them had taken a house
in the road to Hampton Court, whence they were to shoot him with
a blunderbus which will carry 30 or 40 bullets. Some are in
custody, being discontented army officers and fifth monarchy
men. |
|
Nayler at last was sentenced by Parliament, whipped and bored
through the tongue here, and now sent to Bristol, where his blasphemies were committed, to ride to the horse's tail through the city,
and then to be whipped. The Protector wrote a letter for some
moderation, but the House would not hearken to it. We are yet in
a doubtful condition, for I think they will not enlarge the taxes.
If so, we must strike sail. With French note to M. Lerpiniere,
bookseller, about the books omitted, which are wanted. [1⅓ pages.] |
| Jan. 17. |
Approval by the Protector of 4 orders, 23 Dec. 1656 to 13 Jan.
1656–7. [I. 77, pp. 636–7.] |
| Jan. 20. |
42. Petition of Joanna Scott to the Protector. My husband
[Wm. Scott, auditor of imprests in the Exchequer?] has lost by
his own fault the office you granted him, which would have
maintained me and our child. You, noticing our destitution, gave
me an annual maintenance, and this emboldens me to ask, not as a
right, but in mercy, the arrears due whilst my husband held the
office. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 20. |
Reference thereon by Council to the Treasury Commissioners.
[I. 77, p. 638.] |
| Jan. 20. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
(The orders marked thus *were approved in person.) |
|
1*. The petition of Nicholas Lord Deincourt referred to the
Treasury Commissioners, as also the petitioner's case annexed, to
examine if the prosecutions against his estate complained of are the
same as those from which he was formerly discharged, and to
report. |
|
2. Order—on report from the Committee on a paper signed by
Capt. Wm. Sheild, concerning words spoken by Jeremy Constable,
cornet in Col. Brook's militia troop, in co. Northampton, reflecting
on Lord Claypole's honour, and on reading Constable's examination,
taken on Dec. 25, 1656—that his Highness be advised to call in
Constable's commission as a cornet. |
|
43. 3. Reference of Thos. Scott's demand about the Barge House,
Lambeth, to the Admiralty Commissioners, to examine whether any,
or what allowance should be made him, and whether in a gross sum
or a yearly rent. |
|
5*. The Treasury Commissioners are next Thursday to certify
to Council their report on Robert Mason's petition. |
|
7*. The said Commissioners to report this day week on what
was referred to them on 17 Dec. concerning Sir John Penruddock's
estate, and meanwhile to stay all seizure of the said estate. |
|
8*. Approval of an order of the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, for an augmentation of 50l. to the minister of Bissiter, co.
Oxford, he being approved by the Committee for Approbation of
Ministers. |
|
9*, 10*. To recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers
to settle augmentations of 40l. a year on the minister of Stunsfield,
co. Oxford, and 50l. on the minister of Eltisley, co. Cambridge. |
|
11*. On report from the Committee of Council on a certificate
from the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, concerning a union
between Euston and Heythrop parishes, co. Oxford, and a petition
from the inhabitants of Euston against the union, on account of the
distance between the churches, yet as the whole matter has been
examined, and the union recommended by the Commissioners
appointed to enquire into its advantages, and as the said Trustees
desire it—order that the union be confirmed according to the above
report. Approved 23 Jan. |
|
12*. The petition and papers of Dr. Anthony Tuckney, reader of
the Public Divinity Lecture at Cambridge,— praying that the sinecure
of Llan-Rayder Amoughnant, cos. Denbigh and Montgomery, may
be settled on him and his successors to the Divinity Lecture,— referred
to the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, to report. |
|
13. Order—on Mr. Secretary's report from the Committee to speak
with counsel learned concerning the way of proceeding on matters
contained in the examination about the late plot against his
Highness' person— that the trial take place forthwith in the Court
of Upper Bench, and that the counsel learned prepare what is to be
done, and Mr. Secretary consult with them. |
|
14. Next Thursday the report concerning the salaries of the
officers attending the Court of Articles to be considered.
His Highness withdrew. |
|
15. To advise his Highness to order that the Articles of Peace
concluded between him and Portugal be published by proclamation
next Saturday, where and how it is usual in such cases, and that the
heralds attend the service, and also the serjeants-at-arms, with their
maces, and the trumpeters. |
|
16. Order that a report from the Treasury Commissioners about
moneys unpaid in when Sir Chris. Pack, Ald. Avery, and others
were Commissioners of Customs be considered on Thursday. |
|
17. Order on Desborow's presenting to Council 3 reports from the
Admiralty Commissioners—one concerning 40,000l. for present
supply of naval affairs, one concerning the building of 6 new ships,
and one concerning Spanish prisoners— that Desborow, Lambert,
Lord Deputy, Sydenham, and Wolsley consult with the Admiralty
Commissioners, and report their advice. |
|
44 18. The Admiralty Commissioners to consider the case of
Susanna Gawdey, of Wareham, co. Dorset, whose husband died in
the American expedition, as set forth in her petition and papers,
and allow a pension for her and her children if fit, or report. |
|
20. The petition of Robert Worrall, keeper of Grettam Lodge in
Rockingham Forest, co. Northampton, for charges due for his service
in apprehending 4 coiners by order of Maj.-Gen. Butler, referred to
Pickering, Jones, Sydenham, and Strickland, to report. |
|
21.The Irish Committee to consider the case of Col. Owen Rowe,
and the order of the Lord Deputy and Council in Ireland made
thereon 28 Jan. 1653–4, and to report. |
|
22. On report that John Boatman, minister of Norwich, whose
case was referred 23 Dec. last to Maj.-Gen. Hezekiah Haynes and
the Commissioners for ejecting scandalous Ministers, has not
prosecuted his reference, but has preached at Norwich, pretending
authority for so doing;—order that the said Maj.-General and
Commissioners, or any 5 of them, of whom 2 are to be ministers,
examine the whole business of the charges against him, and report,
and meantime he is to forbear preaching. |
|
23. As on 27 Nov. last, the 3 new raised companies under Col.
John Hewson were ordered to march and be paid with the 6 new
raised companies under Col. Rob. Guibon, but it has since been
decided to continue Col. Hewson's own company here:—order that
the Army Committee issue warrants for its payment accordingly,
and for the payment of the 13 Irish companies in England as
formerly. Approved 23 Jan. |
|
24. The number of aldermen in the corporation of Marlborough
raised from 5 to 8, who are to be those persons that have borne the
office of mayor, viz.;
Thos. Hunt.
Wm. Bissett.
Thos. Bayly.
John Bayly.
John Keynes.
Thos. Munday.
Wm. Gough.
Rob. Clements. |
|
The first 5 who were named in the former resolves to be justices
of the peace. |
|
In the clause of the former resolves authorizing the mayor to
execute all ordinary processes, and to have the return of all writs in
the borough except executions, that exception to be omitted. [I. 77,
p. 637–643.] |
| [Jan. 22.] |
45 Petition of John Light haberdasher, of London, and James
Light, ironmonger of Sarum, to the Protector. Our father, John
Light, was collector of Green wax 2 years since, under Mr. Cole,
then sheriff of co. Somerset, and became bound with others for
payment, but fell 400l. in arrears. We have paid and secured 200l.,
wishing to cover anything that might reflect on our father, but the
other 200l., most of it due to Sir Wm. Bronker's office, is a burden
above our power, as we are young and have families, and our father
left us nothing, so that without your clemency we must perish. We
beg you to authorize the Treasury Commissioners to treat with
Bronker for our discharge, if possible, from the 200l., and to report.
With proposal of an order to the Treasury Commissioners to
discharge the petitioners' debt of 147l. due to Bronker's office, to be
abated from Bronker's rent, and to discharge them of other debts to
Wm. Cole, late sheriff, not amounting in the whole to more than
200l. With note that his Highness wishes first to ascertain the
opinion of the Treasury Commissioners. 16 Dec. 1656. [1 sheet.] |
| Jan. |
46 Report by the said Commissioners that John Light, sen.,
owed 147l. for issues of jurors, and 50l. more which should have
been paid to the late sheriff; that the sons are Godfearing men, but of
small estates, and fit objects of relief, and that they should have a
warrant for a sum to enable them to satisfy the persons to whom
they stand answerable. 7 Jan. 1656–7. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 22. |
Order on the above petition and report, for payment to the
two Lights of 200l., to enable them to pay their said debts. [I. 77,
pp. 644—5.] |
| Jan. 22. |
47. Petition of [Capt.] Rob. Starr and company to the Protector
and Council, for letters of reprizal against the enemies, having lost
much by the Spaniards and the pirates of Scilly, which they have
no other means to recover, and going on a merchant voyage to the
coast of Barbary. [2/3 page.] |
| Jan. 22. |
Order thereon granting the petition for letters against the
Spaniards on the usual security. With the letter of reprisal,
27 Jan. Approved 29 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 649, 664; I. 114, p. 61.] |
| Jan. 22. |
48. Petition of Lionel Beecher, of Bideford, co. Devon, to the
Protector. In 1642 I supplied the distressed Protestants in Ireland
with victuals, ordnance, &c., value 1,336l. 11s. 2d., and have only
received 332l. 5s. 7d. You ordered me the balance out of monies
which I shall discover in the hands of collectors for assessments for
Ireland, on which I have spent 260l., but despair of recovering the
933l. 11s. 6d. still due that way. I have a wife and 4 children,
and have lately lost 4 ships taken by pirates of Brest, so that
I shall be ruined unless you order some course for my necessities.
[1 page.] |
| Jan. 22. |
Reference thereon in Council to Strickland, Wolsley, Lisle, and
Jones, to report. [I. 77, p. 649.] |
| Jan. 22. |
49. Petition of James, Earl of Home, Sir Jas. Foulis, and
many noblemen, gentlemen, and citizens in Scotland, to the Protector.
Though you order, 15 April 1656, that any debtor in Scotland who
declared on oath that he could not pay from personal estate might
pay in real estate, on the valuation of indifferent persons, yet little
has been done through fear of alteration by Parliament, and we are
much injured by the delay, as the time limited in the Act is near
expired. We beg your order to the judges in Scotland to appoint
that creditors for more than 1,000 marks shall accept lands for their
debts. Signed by Home and Foulis. [1 sheet.] |
| Jan. 22. |
Order thereon for a letter to the judges in Scotland to quicken
them to execution of the order; Lord Lambert to speak to some
members of Parliament about it, according to this day's debate, and
the letter to be sent or stayed, as they see cause. [I. 77, p. 650.] |
| Jan. 22. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Approval of an order of the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, to continue to Alex. Burnett, minister of Tenham, Kent,
approved by the Committee for Approbation, the augmentation
of 20l. a year, paid the late Mr. Wood, their minister. Approved
by the Protector, 23 Jan. |
|
2. To advise his Highness to appoint Rob. Griffith a Commissioner for Discoveries, in place of the late Mr. Stirrup. |
|
3. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay
300,000l. for navy affairs to Richard Hutchinson. |
|
4. Humphrey Blake, treasurer for sale of Prize Goods, to pay
into the Treasury what money he has in hand, and continue to do
so from time to time in future. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
5. The petition of Col. Peter Stubber, concerning arrears for
personal service, for which he prays satisfaction out of lands in
Ireland, referred to the Committee of Council on Irish affairs, to
report. |
|
6. Order— on report on the petition of Sir Thos. Vyner and Edw.
Backwell [see 6 Jan. 1656–7], allowing them to export 10,000l. in
pieces of 8, and 50 of the coarsest bars of silver, customs and excise
free, on security to import the like quantity in 6 months, and bring
it to the Mint in the Tower to be coined. Approved 23 Jan. With
the licenses accordingly, 23 Jan. [I. 114, pp. 58, 59.] |
|
7. Order—on certificate of Auditor Hen. Broad, that John
Embree has spent in repair of Whitehall, St. James', the Mews,
Westminster, Somerset House, Hampton Court, Greenwich, Windsor,
and the Admiralty, from 11 Nov. 1655 to 30 Nov. 1656, sums
specified amounting to 13,019l. 18s. 5½ d., which with 3,945l. 10s. 9¼d.
bills unpaid, makes 16,965l. 9s. 2¾d.; that he has received 8,000l. by
Privy Seal, and 107l. 12s. 10d. for old lead; but of the 8,000l.,
1,000l. was returned to Nath. Waterhouse, steward of his Highness'
lands, of whom it was borrowed, and is receipted in his last
account, and that therefore the balance due to Embree is
9,857l. 16s. 4¾d.;— that the said sums be paid in part after what is
already assigned from the receipts of the revenue in Scotland called
property and casualty, and that Jones, Sydenham, Lambert, Strickland, and the Lord Deputy, consider how the residue may best be
paid, and what rules should be observed in future about repair of
his Highness' houses. Also that they take Embree's accounts from
30 Nov. to the present day, and report speedily, and that he refrain
meanwhile from beginning any new work, or providing any new
materials. Annexing, |
|
50—52. Certificate of Auditor Broad alluded to. 10 Jan. 1656—7.
[2 pages, 3 copies.] |
|
8. Mr. Embree to forbear beginning any new works or providing
new material for repair of his Highness' houses, without special
direction from Council, till the Committee for ordering such repairs
in future shall report and order them. |
|
9. Order — on reading a report from the Treasury Commissioners,
and a draft warrant certified to contain powers expressed in his
Highness' Commission for Discoveries, of 23 May 1656, to be
intended to the said Commissioners (save only for payment of
salaries) and that they conceive it will be more satisfactory if
it pass under the Great Seal—that it pass accordingly, omitting
the clause, "or so much more as you, our Treasury Commissioners,
shall think fit to allow." |
|
10. His Highness' letters of Privy Seal, for empowering the
Treasury Commissioners to pay Anne, relict of Lieut.-Col. Blunt, a
pension of 20s. a week till other provision be made for relief of
herself and children, to pass, and the money to be paid from time
to time without fee. |
|
11. The petition of Dame Mary Stonehouse referred to Jones,
Wolsley, Pickering, Mulgrave, and Strickland, to report. |
|
12. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay the
Earl of Lauderdale such sum as Frost shall certify to be due to him,
in arrear of his pension of 5l. a week. |
|
13. On reading 2 several certificates from Wm. Hill, auditor, the
one certifying that there is due to Edm. Jones, Attorney-general of
cos. Pembroke, Carmarthen, Cardigan, Brecon, and Radnor, in South
Wales, on his fee of 8l. 13s. 4d. a year, for 3½ years ending Michaelmas 1656, 30l. 6s. 8d., which is allowed by patent of Feb. 16,
1653–4; and the other certifying that there is due to Thos. Hughes,
prothonotary and clerk of the Commonwealth in cos. Glamorgan,
Brecon, Radnor, and Monmouth, on his fee of 5l. a year, and for the
pains of himself and clerks in engrossing and transcribing all fines
forfeited at each Great Session held in the said counties before he
left them, at 4l. a year, for 3 years ending Michaelmas 1656, 27l.,
which is allowed by patent of 27 Oct.;—Order to advise that the
Treasury Commissioners pay the said arrears, and continue the
payment of the fees. |
|
14. John Normanton, who has attended on Council's summons of
8 Jan., to be discharged and allowed to return home, and Capts.
Thornhill and Burges to enquire into the difference between him
and Rich. Brambly, compose it if they can, and if not, certify. |
|
15. The business of the East India trade to be considered tomorrow, and Council to sit in order thereto. |
|
18. To consider to-morrow a petition of the officers and soldiers'
widows and orphans, and all others concerned in army arrears for
Ireland, before 5 June 1649. |
|
19. The certificate of the Committee for redemption of captives,
13 Jan. 1656–7, referred to Desborow, Sydenham, Strickland,
Wolsley, Lisle, and Jones, to report. |
|
20. Order on report of the petition of Alexander, Earl of
Murray [see 14 Oct. 1656], that on his giving security to the
Council in Scotland to pay 500l. before 1 Feb. 1657–8, the residue of
his fine, imposed by the Act of Pardon to the people in Scotland,
be remitted. Approved 29 Jan. Annexing, |
|
53. Beport alluded to, signed by Fiennes, Lambert, and Strickland. [¾ page.] |
| Jan. 22. |
21. As the Maj.-General of co. Lincoln is absent attending
Parliament, any 4 of the Commissioners of peace of the county are
to pursue the reference of 22 Sept. last to the Maj.-General and
Commissioners, of the case of Sir John Mounson, for discharge from
decimation. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
23. The 500l. payable by the Earl of Murray, according to today's order, to be applied to satisfy so much out of Scotch fines to
the child of late Lieut.-Col. Cobbett; and the 2nd half of 1,405l.,
formerly due to Col. Horton's child out of Scotch fines to be paid
to Cornet John Baynes, and by him to the Colonel's administrator,
for the child, either from the remainder of fines, or from what first
comes in towards 40,000l. fine mentioned in an order of 13 Nov.
last, as payable out of confiscated estates in Scotland; and a letter
to be written to the Council in Scotland accordingly. Approved
29 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 643–651.] |
| Jan. 23. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. On certificate from 4 Commissioners of co. Essex, on a
reference of 13 Jan. on Sir Thos. Wiseman's petition, and on a
former certificate from the county commissioners, that they have
considered the certificate and petition, to the truth whereof some can
testify of their own knowledge,—the captain commanding some men
then going to Chelmsford telling them that he had gone with his
soldiers thither had it not been for the persuasion of the said Sir
Thomas, who advised him to come with his soldiers to their timely
assistance to Coggeshall, in consideration whereof they consider Sir
Thomas a fit subject for his Highness' favour;— order that the county
Maj.-General and Commissioners examine the case, and discharge
him from further proceedings if equitable. Approved by the
Protector. |
|
2. Approval by the Protector of 5 orders, 20–23 Jan. [I. 77,
p. 652.] |
Jan. 25./Feb. 4.
Bruges. |
Michell Deane to [Sec. Thurloe.] Last week I was in Holland
and missed the post. It was my first error, and I will commit no
more. Middleton is not returned from Dantzic, nor do I believe he
will do anything to his advantage. Col. Blake is 3 days since returned
from the Duke of York, and says he left him in Amsterdam, on his
way to the Hague, and so hither. I will not believe it till I see it.
His sudden departure hence puts all things in great disorder, for our
condition here is very poor, and little hopes of amendment. Our
number will not be 2,000, and ill accommodated. The Spaniard
begins to frown upon us, for Rochester was found by the Spanish
Commissary to muster false, which does much harm to King Charles.
He is only allowed 500 firelocks, without any ammunition. |
|
The Duke of York's sudden departure hindered Bristol's going his
intended journey, but he is still in France. Ormond is gone to the
Duke of York. We are not in the condition you hear we are in. |
|
The Hollanders are preparing their shipping to join the King of
Spain against England and France. We hear from Holland that
some of their ships met Gen. Blake, and sank him. The Zealanders
are mad for war, and will make all their companies full hundreds
again. I will answer your letter next post. [1 page. Flanders
correspondence.] |
Jan. 25./Feb. 4.
Paris. |
54 Chas. Perrott to Jos. Williamson, Saumur. I drop the
epithet of honest to you, as you disallow it. You call me knight
errant, I dare not assume the name of Don, but I would gladly be your
esquire, and a trusty Sancho Panza, to follow you in quest of your
Dulciana. Your canonizing of saints smells of superstition. Pray
remember your dear saint of the Reformation, and do not add
new saints to the Calendar of Rome. I wish you were more with
us, but you have the Athenian itch, and want me to cure it by Paris
news. I would send you the Gazette, but it will only tell you how
the King danced, how his guard of 100 gentlemen liked the blue
livery, and where the Queen said her Ave Marias. The news from
England is of plots and treasons, yea of gunpowder treasons, that
would have sent the Protector to heaven in a fiery chariot. Five of
his guards are imprisoned as actors in the intended tragedy, but the
prime plotter, they say, was Lambert, who was within an inch
of execution. This news is in a letter from young De Bourdeaux
to his father. |
|
I suppose you have heard of the difference between the King and
the Duke of York about Sir John Berkley, the King preferring to
leave his brother than part with such a servant. I hear the business
is composed, and the Duke returned to Bruges, where the levies go
on slowly enough. The Irish expected out of the French army pay
their duty in excuses; their answer—especially young Muskerry's—
being that they know not how to dispense with their engagement to
the French. [1½ pages.] |
Jan. 26.
Navy Office. |
55. Navy Commissioners to the Admiralty Commissioners. Some
months since, divers ropemakers contracted to deliver proportions
of cordage for the use of the State, and some of them completed
what they undertook, but others are still short of performance,
whereby a considerable quantity remains to be delivered. We have
often called upon them for a compliance, but without effect, and
although it is true there is a clause in their contract that, if
payment be not duly made within a month after delivery of every
10 tons, upon application made and notice given to the Navy
Commissioners, the contractors are to be at liberty to continue to
deliver or to desist, yet the meaning of this was only to secure them
against staying in course, and they have never appeared until
lately to declare their desire to be dis-obliged, in respect of a noncompliance of punctual payment. Some of them, when they saw
the prices of this commodity advance, neglected to take up and pass
their bills as they ought, so that the time of payment was past
before they presented them. We were resolved to sue them upon
their contracts, but upon the representation of some of them who
had had their bills signed, that they had used all possible means, and
attended several times for payment, but without effect, it was
agreed on both sides to refer the whole matter to you. [1 page.]
Enclosing, |
|
55. i. Copy of the contract alluded to between the Admiralty
Commissioners and the ropemakers, for manufacture of
ropes from good Riga and Queenborough hemp at 42l. a
ton, payable a month after delivery, 5 May 1656. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 26. |
56. Order in the Admiralty Committee summoning Hen. Hughes,
Wm. Pritchard, Rob. Wakelyn, Mr. Bartlett, and Mr. Shakespeere,
to appear before them, and give an account of their failure of
contract. [2/3 page.] |
| [Jan. 27.] |
57. Petition of Thos. Woodford, merchant, to the Protector.
I with others discovered to the Committee for the Revenue 10,000
acres gained from the sea in Kent, and proved the same by two
commissions returned into the Exchequer, which Committee entertained the same for the benefit of the State, and settled the sale
of the lands to the discoverers for 3,000l., promising them letters
patent to be confirmed to them for ever, and referred the business
to the Attorney and Solicitor General, Sir Thos. Widdington, and
Serjeant Greene for their advice. Sir Thomas and Serjeant Greene
were almost ready to certify, when Serjeant Greene died, and no
certificate was made. I beg a reference to some others to certify,
that further course may be taken therein. With reference thereon
to the Treasury Commissioners, 5 Sept. 1654; their reference to
Att.-Gen. Prideaux, Sol.-Gen. Wm. Ellis, and Nich. Lechmere,
Attorney of the Duchy, 26 July 1655; their report that lands gained
from the sea belonged to the King and now to his Highness, but
they know not how it will be in the petitioner's case, 1 Nov. 1655;
and another report by the Treasury Commissioners that, many persons
being concerned in the case, they forbear prosecution till further
directions, 29 Nov. 1655. [1½ pages.] Also |
|
Petition of Thos. Woodford to the Protector. The land in Kent
is 129 parcels, in the hands of several persons; the opinions on the
case are now returned; I have spent a large sum for 18 years, in
bringing your title to light, and beg 1/5 for my pains, according to the
Act of Oct. 1653. With reference, 16 May 1656, to Privy Council.
[½ page.] |
| Jan. 27. |
Order therein that the Treasury Commissioners consider the
whole business, and act according to law and justice. Approved
29 Jan. [I. 77, pp. 658–665.] |
| Jan. 27. |
58. Petition of Dorothy, wife of Rob. Harding, to the Protector.
I petitioned in June last [see 14 Aug. 1656], for a debt of 1,000l.
from Sir Phil. Knyvett, detained by Hugh Audley, who vexes me
with suits, and detains 8,000l. more of Knyvett's which I have
discovered, and 5,550l. is already adjudged by the Worcester House
Commissioners. You granted me 1,000l. 9 Sept. out of those
discoveries, but my counsel say there is a defect in your order,
which may cause a new Exchequer suit. I beg full authority to
the Treasury Commissioners for payment, so that all suits may be
stopped, and a speedy course taken for bringing in the 5,550l. in
Audley's hands; also allowance of 1/5th of my discoveries, in which
I have been at great expense. |
| Jan. 27. |
Order thereon in Council confirming that of 9 Sept. 1656.
[I. 77, p. 662.] |
| Jan. 27. |
59. Petition of John Wicker and the owners of the Gillyflower
to the Protector. We had a reference to Council on a former
petition [see 16 Aug. 1655], but it has had no effect, on account
of the public occasions for money. We therefore beg you to allow
payment of our debt, confirmed by Parliament, which, with interest
to this time, amounts to 2,200l. out of concealed delinquents' estates
to be discovered by us. With reference thereon to Council,
2 July 1656. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
59. i. Bill by Rich. Crandley, of Mark Lane, and John Wicker,
of Seething Lane, for use of the ship and goods, with
interest for 8 years at 8 per cent.; total, 1,916l. 2s. 4d.,
10 July 1656. [2/3 page.] |
| Jan. 27. |
Order thereon in Council, on report from the Committee on the
petition,—shewing that goods worth 557l. 12s. 8d. were taken
from the petitioners in 1644 by the Pembrokeshire Committee,
for service of that county, and that the ship was forced to stay
3 months and 26 days at Pembroke, which cost the freighter 150l.
a month, 580l. 15s. 0d. in all; also that during that time the ship
and crew gave good assistance to the Parliament forces there, that
the goods seized from the ship were the means of expelling the
enemy from the county, and that both sums amount to 1,138l. 7s. 8d.
principal,—that the report be agreed to, and the petitioners paid the
principal out of half such discoveries as they shall make of land,
money or goods concealed by delinquents, which the Commissioners for Discoveries shall examine, and report what they allow to
the Treasury Commissioners, who are to levy the money and pay it
into the Exchequer, that the petitioners may receive satisfaction.
Approved 29 Jan. [I. 77, pp, 661, 665.] |
| Jan. 27. |
60. Petition of Martin Noel to the Protector and Council. Contracted with Capt. Wm. Watts for the transportation of 120 men in
the Hopewell for Jamaica at 5l. per head; 13 men in excess having
been put on board, the captain expects him to pay for them,
which he is unable to do, and begs an order for satisfaction to Capt.
Watts. [2/3 page.] |
| Jan. 27. |
61. Like petition. Having shipped several sorts of goods and provisions for the army in Jamaica, the Prize Commissioners for satisfaction thereof were ordered to sell him the Seahorse and Stronghold,
formerly belonging to the Dutch, and taken prize for trading to
the English plantations, contrary to law. They are now freighted
for Holland, but he dares not venture them until condemned by the
Admiralty Court; prays order to the Admiralty Judges to pass
their condemnation, that the ships may proceed to Holland.
[¾ page.] |
| Jan. 27. |
62, 63. Reference of these 2 petitions, that of Robt. Browne
for liberty to ship out 30 tons of saltpetre, and that of Thos. Winter
and others concerning bullion, to the Admiralty Commisioners, to
report. [2 papers; also I. 77, p. 662.] |
| Jan. 27. |
Council. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Mr. Secretary to see it added to the instructions already passed
that lands in Ireland be only set out to Protestants. |
|
2. The business of the East India trade to be considered forthwith. |
|
4. A paper from Lord Nieuport to his Highness,—asking for release
of the Charity of Amsterdam, bound from Flushing to Portugal,
laden with divers goods on account of Balthazer Robyn, citizen of
Amsterdam, which fell on the Goodwins, sprang a leak, and having
to put into some port, was ordered by the commander-in-chief in
the Downs to go to Dover, where she has since been detained,
although she belongs to the United Provinces, and was sailing from
a free port to a town in amity with this Commonwealth—referred,
with the papers, attestations, and examinations annexed, to the
Admiralty Court, to speak with the Advocate and Proctor, and
with Mr. Dorislaus and the Prize Goods' Commissioners if necessary,
and report the whole state of the case. |
|
64. 5. The report from the Treasury Commissioners about
moneys unpaid when Sir C. Pack, Ald. Avery, and others were
Commissioners of Customs, and the petition from Pack, Chas. Lloyd,
and Walter Boothby, with their reasons why they should not be
involved in the account, referred to Sydenham, Desborow, Jones,
Skippon, Wolsley, and the Lord Deputy, to speak with the parties,
report the several cases, and give their opinion. Annexing, |
|
64. i. Treasury Commissioners to Council. Finding a large
sum unpaid when Sir Chris. Pack, Ald. Avery, Mr. Lloyd,
and others were Commissioners of Customs, we directed
the auditor of imprests to perfect the accounts. He made
out a joint account, whereupon Pack, Lloyd, and Boothby
have sent in reasons why they should not be involved in
the account with Avery, who was treasurer, and is alone
accountable. We therefore directed the auditor to state
the accounts severally, which being done, we ask directions
whether to proceed on the joint or several accounts,
Jan. 14, 1656–7. [¾ page.] |
|
64. ii. Petition of Sir Chris. Pack, Chas. Lloyd, and Walter
Boothby to the Treasury Commissioners. In 1644, when
Parliament much wanted money, we, with Sam. Avery
and Rich. Bateman, were earnestly pressed to advance sums,
and for our security were made collectors of the customs
brought in by loan on the duties of tonnage and poundage, not then settled in a legal way, with a defalcation of
15 per cent. We first declined the service, being fearful
of inthralling our estates in Exchequer accounts, but on
promise that we should only receive moneys on account,
and issue them on orders of Parliament or the Navy
Commissioners, which orders should be our discharge, we
consented. |
|
An ordinance passed in Feb. 1644–5 thereupon, and we
lent 50,000l. at once, and then sums amounting to
140,000l. in all, and our salaries were less by 6,000l.
a year than formerly given. |
|
At first we divided the work, each commissioner taking
his own share and keeping his own accounts, and in
Aug. 1645, our accounts were called for, given in, and
cleared. |
|
The Navy Commissioners then wished all the money to
be paid in to one treasury, when Avery and Bateman
were appointed treasurers, and Avery's son Dudley,
cashier, and this continued till July 1649, when our
employment ended. |
|
Since then Auditor Beale, ordered by Parliament to
take our accounts, refuses to take them separately, and
urges us to give in a joint account, according to the
usual course of the Exchequer, so that if any of us fall
short, the debt shall be charged on the other Commissioners, which we think contrary to Parliament's intentions, and the order of the Navy Commissioners, when
they settled one treasury; for in case the treasurers fall
short, it would be unjust to charge the arrears on us. |
|
We beg your directions to Auditor Beale to pass our
particular accounts, and not to involve us in the Treasury
account, of which we are wholly ignorant, and to stay the
declaring any joint account. [1 sheet.] |
|
64. iii. Additional reasons by Pack, Lloyd, and Boothby,
why they should not be liable to a joint account with
Avery and Bateman. That a promise to the contrary
was the condition of their undertaking the business at so
small a salary. That the Act of 8 August 1649 exempts
accountants who have discharged their respective accounts
from joint accounts. That the settling of one treasury
was made contrary to their will. |
|
That their receipts were only in the Port of London,
whereas the treasurers received 60,000l. from the outports, which never came into their hands, and yet the
auditor would charge it on them jointly with the
treasurer. |
|
That joint accounts are injurious to their credit, as
they are said to be indebted many thousands, when in
truth they owe nothing, but have served to the best of their
power, and tried in vain to bring the treasury to an
account. [1 sheet.] |
|
64. iv. Petition of Pack, Lloyd, and Boothby to the Protector, to
the same effect as that to the Treasury Commissioners.
With reference thereon to Privy Council, 26 Jan. 1656–7.
[1 sheet.] |
|
6. Order on a paper from Mr. Moreland that the Committee for the
Piedmontese Protestants have asked for 2,000l. of the money collected to be sent at once, that Sir Thos. Vyner and Sir Christopher
Pack, treasurers for the money, pay Moreland the 2,000l. to send
over; and that the above Committee consider if it is fit to send out
the remainder to repair the walls of Geneva, and for the convenience
of the Protestants in other ways, and how much will be wanted.
Approved 29 Jan. |
|
7. Lord President, Lambert, Wolsley, and Rous to consider the
history compiled by Mr. Moreland about the Piedmontese Protestants,
and report their opinion on it. |
|
8. Order on report from the Committee on the Protestants
in Piedmont, representing the patient and faithful services of
Mr. Moreland in the late negociations, that Lambert, and the Lord
Deputy speak with some of the Committee concerning an allowance
for him out of the money collected. |
|
9. On a certificate from the Commissioners in co. Somerset that
they are fully satisfied as to John Tynt, of Halswell, and his loyalty,
that they have had proof thereof in the late insurrection, and
that he has offered to lend his Highness 50l., order that the Major
General and Commissioners grant his discharge from decimation,
without payment of the 50l. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
10. Approval of certificates from the Trustees for Maintenance of
Ministers, granting 30l. a year each augmentation to the ministers
of Mayntree, co. Essex, and Whalley, co. Lancaster. |
|
17. Mr. Hadock, pastor of the congregated church at Nantwich,
Cheshire, to be allowed to preach a weekly lecture in the public
meeting place of the town, on such day in the week as it is not
used by Mr. Jackson, the present minister; the magistrates and
inhabitants of the town are to allow it accordingly, and Maj.-Gen.
Bridges is to see it done. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
20. On a report from the Committee on the late report of the
Admiralty Commissioners, about several complaints from London
merchants of hardships and cruel usage to subjects of this Commonwealth now prisoners in Spain, who have no allowance for their
subsistence but what is given by their friends, while Spaniards
lately taken by us, viz., Don Diego de Villa Alva and M. Del Plato,
and their servants, have their liberty, and are daily seen on the
Exchange and other public places, to the grief of the above merchants,
and also have a liberal allowance for diet, &c.—order that the
Serjeant-at-arms deliver the above named Spaniards and their
servants to the Marshal-general of the Army, to keep them in
custody till they obtain a supply from Spain, or get their exchange
for English prisoners there. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
21. On report from the Committee on the late report of
Admiralty Commissioners, concerning the necessity of proposing
payment of 40,000l. to the Navy Treasurer, particularly for the
paying of officers and workmen in the several yards, and for disbursements in the Victualling Office for saltpetre and other naval
stores—order that towards the 300,000l. allowed by Privy Seal for
navy expenses, 40,000l. be now paid from money arising from the
prize plate and money lately taken from Spain on Sir Thos.
Vyner and Mr. Backwell's contract. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
22. Lord Deputy, Desborow, Jones, Sydenham, Wolsley, and
Lisle, to consider a supply of money for the new militia forces, and
to speak thereon with the Army Committee, and report. |
|
23. On report from the Committee on Francis Willoughby's
petition, that he craves allowance of 1,622l. 16s. 4d. as due to his
late father, Col. Willoughby, on an order of Parliament of 11 July
1651, for money spent in defence of the Thames during the insurrection in Kent and Essex, and by Council propounded to be paid
out of excise in course, with interest; also that by a certificate from
the Auditor of Imprest, 2,450l. appears due to the petitioner for
freight of ships employed in the service in 1644, and that no part
of either sum has been paid,—order that the Navy Treasurer pay the
1,622l. 16s. 4d. from money arising on sale of timber ordered for the
navy's use, and the 2,450l. in the same way as others have lately
been satisfied for similar debts, by sale of old and unserviceable
shipping. Approved 29 Jan. |
|
24. The petition of the owners and employers of the Poole
Merchant, and the Blessing of Poole,—shewing that they have a
quantity of salt in Newfoundland, and must send their ships thither
on a fishing voyage at their great charge, and praying that their
seamen may not be impressed,—referred to the Admiralty Commissioners. |
|
25. The petition of Rob. South, merchant in London,—concerning
his great losses, and particularly by the ship Discovery, whereof he
was part owner, whose goods were all employed for relief of Munster
in time of its great distress in 1645, by which the petitioner lost
964l.—referred to the Irish Committee, to report. |
|
28. On petition of Rich. Toomes, cousin of Wm. Toomes, late
of Hackney, that being heir, and sued at law for great sums, the
writings belonging to Wm. Toomes' real estates, whereof the particulars have been read by Nath. Bacon and Dr. Barnard, may be
delivered to him—order that Maj. Elleston, or whoever has charge
thereof, deliver the writings claimed by the petitioner to Mr. Jessop
to read, and return such of them as concern the real estate to
Toomes, and if any case of difficulty occurs, to report. |
|
31. The petition of the Magistrates and Court of Common Council
of Glasgow referred to the Scotch Committee, to report. |
|
32. Order on report from the Treasury Commissioners concerning
salaries in arrear to the Commissioners for managing sequestered
estates, to advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay
the Commissioners and officers hereafter named the following sums
for their full salary; with a list of the officers and Commissioners
for sequestrations, and of the sums due in full satisfaction for
service. [I. 77, pp. 653–664.] |
Jan. 27.
London. |
65 Rich. Lowther to Williamson. There is no discrepancy
between your last to me and that to Mr. Northleigh, except that you
mention the close conveyance, which seemed extravagant; but since
I hear that you have paid 18 pistoles to the tennis court, which you
say you were engaged for, and you wrote me half would suffice,
when I could pay; such passages do not arguo much reality of the
love you profess. My coat is threadbare, therefore do not think to
grow rich by me; but write me plainly and downright, directing to
Inner Temple Gate, how my moneys are engaged. As to the 30l.,
my father intends to abate 20l. in my brother Leigh's bill, and the
10l. is for charges and small arrears. Do not send more such
papers as you sent to a good friend of mine. I find it dangerous
to rely on any. I would rather wear a patched coat than have
my father to know. Mr. Whorwood's father is here, railing against
you as a very ill-conditioned man. Let me know how to send
money, and I will discharge what I owe there, but I do not owe
the limner a penny. |
|
P.S.—Tell me where Norris and Whorwood are, and remember me
to my brother Leigh. [1 page.] |
| Jan. 29. |
66. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. Dispatch of goods. I have
got the books, but they had nearly gone back to Nantes for want
of a letter of advice. Lamplugh now thinks he shall obtain a
pleasant living near Reading. |
|
Our old speaker, Widdrington, is laid aside through infirmity, and
Whitelock is in his place. Last week the whole House went to
congratulate the Protector on his delivery from the late plot to
murder him, and in going up the stairs into the banqueting house,
the multitude passing after, the gallery on the top of the stairs fell,
and in it 100 people, 20 being members of the House, and among
them Lord Richard, the Protector's son, but had little hurt. The
solicitor had a leg broken, and some other harms. These 2 days they
have sat all day about the Majors General, expecting an Act to confirm
them for life, but it is thrown out; they are now at the Protector's
pleasure as to continuance. It was supposed those were the principal
men that opposed the succession in the Protector's line. We have
a day of thanks 13 Feb. for this delivery. [1 page.] |
Jan. 30./Feb. 9.
Blois. |
67. Edw. Norris to Williamson. All that I can say about the
past 8 days is that I have arrived here alive; love cannot be cured
by medicine, and I have suffered much in absence from one who
still has my heart. I am glad the gun is not lost, for our cloaks
have not found their way to Blois; I was not much inconvenienced.
Thanks for your kind letter. My service to Mr. Leigh. [1 page,
damaged, French.] |
| [Jan.] |
68–70. Petition of Jas. Hardman, innholder of Lancaster, to
the Protector. I had the chief inn in Lancaster, and had goods of
great value at its burning by the late Earl of Derby and the Popish
party; and the castle not being provisioned, my wines, goods, &c.,
value 350l. were taken for it. I served with 2 servants 6 years, and
was provost-marshal of the garrison, and when the Scots invaded,
I found more provisions, so that 420l. is due to me. By these losses
and setting out one son in the army in Scotland, and one in the fleet,
my wife and 10 children are in much want; yet my goods are seized
for 700l. which I owe as agent to the Sequestration Commissioners
in the county. I beg defalcation therefrom of what is justly due to
me. With note of reference, 12 July 1655, to Judge Thos. Fell and
Major Hen. Porter; their report certifying the truth of the petition,
though they are not sure of the amount of the loss, 28 Nov. 1656;
and the report of the Treasury Commissioners that they send a
certificate of proofs taken by some gentlemen residing near on the
case. 31 Dec. 1656. [3 papers.] Annexing, |
|
70. i. Account by John Holcroft, deputy-lieutenant of the county
and governor of the castle, of the goods and provisions of
Hardman carried into Lancaster Castle in March 1642,
total 105l. 10s. 10d. 21 Jan. 1650–1. [1 column.] |
|
70. ii. Examination of 11 inhabitants of Lancaster, including
2 sons of Hardman, Richard and John, giving details
upon the several statements in the petition. 6 Nov. 1655.
Signed by Fell and Porter. [2½ pages.] |
| Jan. ? |
71. Petition of Elizabeth, wife of Jas. Hardman, postmaster of
Lancaster, to the Protector. I beg to present to you the certificate
and report on my husband's petition; he being infirm and unable to
travel, I have made 3 journeys of 180 miles in the depth of winter
without satisfaction, and beg speedy relief. [½ page.] |
| [Jan.] |
72. Petition of Rob. Yardley to the Admiralty Commissioners. To
the same effect as that presented December last, about his right to the
stables adjoining the payhouse, Chatham, but postponed till they
should come to Chatham. Begs an allowance for the rent and
arrears. [1 page.] |
| [Jan.] |
73. Petition of Dorothy Chiffinch, laundress and sempstress of
the body linen, to the King. My predecessor, Mrs. Freeman, was
allowed 4 livres a day and a place for washing the linen, and I had 20
sous a day for mending the laced linen, and for making linen, I was
paid by the piece, at the rate the Queen set; but when both places
were given me, I was content with the 4 livres, sending in bills for
the making and mending, but I was to be paid monthly, and have a
place for my work, being at great charges in keeping servants to do
it. Yet I am more in arrears than any of your servants, and have
had to take up money on interest. I beg the arrears, and an order
for the 4 livres a day, and the rent of the laundry to be paid
monthly. [1 page.] Annexing, |
|
73. i. Bill of Mrs. Chiffinch for hire of a laundry from 1 Feb.
1655–6 to 1 Jan. 1656–7; total 32 dollars. [½ page.] |
| [Jan.] |
74. Order thereon for payment of the said bill, and for monthly
payments for hire of the like house in future. [Scrap, in Nicholas'
hand.] |
