Volume 153: February 1657

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1656-7. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1883.

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'Volume 153: February 1657', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1656-7, (London, 1883) pp. 258-297. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1656-7/pp258-297 [accessed 18 April 2024]

February 1657

Feb. 2. Declaration of the Protector and Parliament for a day of thanksgiving on Friday 20 Feb.:—
This people, after long contest, are restored to peace and freedom, yet the rancour of many lately designed new troubles, by rising in arms, but they were prevented. Then discontented spirits, called Levellers, arose, who were also discovered and suppressed. Their latest practice has been to unite with the Spaniard, and knowing that God has used the Protector "as a most eminent and principal instrument, and the leader of his people," they conspired to murder him, as appears from their own confession, viz.:—
That 4 months since, Miles Sundercomb persuaded John Cecill that it would be a very good service to take off the Protector, and then things would come to confusion, and the people would rise, and that money should be provided.
That they first tried to waylay him on the road, Toop of the lifeguard engaging to serve them, and give them notice of his going out, but though they waited 5 or 6 times, they failed.
That then Sundercomb went to Hyde Park to shoot him, but failed. They then took a house at Hammersmith from which to shoot.
That they plotted to fire Whitehall, and placed a firework in it on 8 Jan., between 5 and 6 p.m., with lighted matches, expecting it would have fired by 12.
That Boyes, a principal actor, assured them that when the Protector was dispatched, forces would come from Flanders, in ships hired with the King of Spain's money. That a port town was to be seized, and a large sum would be given for it.
That 30 or 40 men are engaged to take away the Protector's life. That he was to have been shot the first day of Parliament, as he went in his coach, but they were discouraged, because there would be no possible way of escaping. That they hired a house near the Abbey in Westminster to shoot him as he went from the sermon to Parliament, but there were so many people about, they durst not do anything for fear of discovery.
That Sundercomb pretended to be hired by the King of Spain, said he should soon be a colonel of horse, and promised another a troop of horse and 1,500l., and said it was better that Charles Stuart should reign than the Protector. That five beside Toop were engaged in the design.
God so worked on the heart of one of them that he discovered the design to his Highness. For this eminent mercy and other mercies, the Protector and Parliament appoint 20 Jan. as a thanksgiving day, in England, Scotland, and Ireland, in which all are to abstain from labour; the ministers are to read this narrative in their congregations, and pray for the Protector, and those in authority. [6 pages printed Col. of Acts, Vol. 2, No. 98, Rec. Off. Library, 498, F.]
Feb. 2. 75. Elizabeth, Lady Lowther, to Williamson. I wonder at my letters failing; I sent 3 in 6 months, and my last was in folios answering every particular as far as my power reached, and I hope seconded by my brother Hare. I trust you have had a bill of exchange for 100l., I will write to my cousin Northleigh about it. As to my son's advancement, the narrow compass of his estate will rather contribute to it than hinder it. Let him live low and studiously, redeeming his lost time, leaving his father's errors, and learning such humility and temper as may recover his fortune out of ruin. We send him, not for gallantry, but to contract himself and double his diligence, where he will not meet with so many allurements as at home.
Your letter was not dated, but must have been written lately, because you name our son Richard's return. [12/3 pages.]
Feb. 3. 76. Petition of the surviving prebendaries, ministers, and members of Norwich cathedral to the Protector. There were sundry moneys and goods due to the late Dean and Chapter, which we cannot recover by law, though they were never sequestered. Having always obeyed the present government, we beg that you will order payment, so that the farmers and others may have no occasion to detain the moneys and goods. With special reference 13 Nov. [1656] to Privy Council. [1 page.] Annexing,
76. i. List of 11 persons, headed by Major Haynes, whom they desire as Commissioners in the case. [¼ page.]
Feb. 3. Order thereon in Council that the said persons requested send for the petitioners and the debtors, accommodate the matter if they can, and if not, certify Council. [I. 77, p. 667.]
Feb. 3. 77. Petition of John Seager, yeoman, of Fordington, co. Devon, to the Protector and Council. I have always been faithful, and 1 and my 2 sons, with our horses, engaged at our own charge against the late insurrection in the West. I have 65l. 11s. 3d. due as waggonmaster of the artillery train in co. Dorset, and being much decayed in estate, I beg payment. [1 page.] Annexing,
77. i. Certificate by the Commissioners for monthly assessments and disbanding supernumeraries in co. Dorset to the above debt, for service from 6 July 1644 to 6 Dec. 1646, being the balance of 220l. 15s. 0d., deducting 100l. paid, and 55l. 3s. 9d. for free quarter; certifying also to the good demeanour of Seager in the service. Signed and sealed by Ri. Burie, John Whiteway, and [Col.] W. Sydenham. [1 sheet.]
Feb. 3. Order thereon for payment to him from the ½ of the discoveries of concealed lands, goods, &c., to be made by him, which are to be prosecuted by the Treasury Commissioners. [I. 77, p. 670.]
Feb. 3. 78. Petition of Hen. Seymour, prisoner in the Tower, to the Protector and Council. In April last, I was released on bail to render myself on summons from the Lieutenant; I was summoned in September, and went in on 1 Oct., to the injury of health and fortune, both of which are ruined by restraint. I beg to have liberty on bail, or to be committed to the Serjeant-at-arms, where I may hope for such enlargement as shall preserve my life, till you give me a more perfect liberty. [¾ page.]
Feb. 3. Order thereon that Sir John Barkstead set him at liberty on security to go beyond seas, not to return without leave, and to act nothing prejudicial to government. Approved 7 Feb. [I. 77, pp. 671, 691.]
Feb. 3. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Approval of a grant by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers of an augmentation of 20l. a year to Wm. Sheldrack, assistant to the minister of Wisbeach, Isle of Ely, and order that a lecture be preached at Wisbeach each Sunday afternoon and Wednesday, and that Wm. Sheldrack be the present lecturer, and be allowed free use of the church or public meeting place. Approved by the Protector 5 Feb.
2. Order that—whereas Thos. Parke left 140l. towards maintenance of a weekly lecture at Wisbeach, but the then Bishop of Ely would only consent on condition that it should be preached on holidays— the lecture be preached every 4th Wednesday by Mr. Coldwell, the present, and by the succeeding vicars of Wisbeach, who are to have the benefit of the 140l., the change of day notwithstanding. Approved 5 Feb.
3. Approval of an order of the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, that 5l. 12s., being the rent of Ardley rectory, should be paid to Benj. Hubbard, present rector, and the arrears to Nath. Carr, for the time that he was minister. Approved by the Protector 7 Feb.
4. Like approval of an augmentation of 30l. a year to Peter Johnson, minister of Lawrence, Isle of Thanet, the vicarage being worth only 13l. with a house, and an acre of glebe, and the parish containing 1,400 hearers. Approved by the Protector 7 Feb.
5, 6. To recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle augmentations of 60l. a year on the minister of Southmoulton, and one, sum not named, on the minister of Chipping Norton, both co. Devon. Approved by the Protector 7 Feb.
7. The petition of John Freeman, senr. and junr., and Philip Travers, for themselves and other London merchants interested in goods detained and illegally condemned by the King of Denmark, referred to the Navy Commissioners, to report.
9. On petition of the inhabitants of Shenley, co. Herts—shewing that the parsonage of Shenley, in 11 Eliz., by the consent of the then bishop, patron, and incumbent, was let for 99 years at 20l. a year, which rent is chargeable with first fruits, tenths, &c., so that the parish is deprived of sufficient subsistence for their minister, he having no maintenance save 50l. settled for a lecturer;—order that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers settle on Isaac Loeffe, the minister there, an able and painful preacher, an augmentation of 40l. a year. Approved 7 Feb.
10. Clement Kinnersley, wardrobe keeper, to choose out for Sir Wm. Lockhart, ambassador in France, 16 silver dishes, 36 silver trencher plates, and 6 silver trencher salts, from plate provided for ambassadors still left in his charge, and have it new beaten, boiled, and burnished; also 12 large pieces of old tapestry from what belongs to the State, well lined, scoured, and mended, to be sent to France and to deliver them all by indenture to Lady Lockhart; all to be returned at the end of his employment.
11. The Treasurers-at-war to send to Dublin 10,000l. from the money designed for the forces, beside the 30,000l. already ordered, to make up 40,000l. for pay of the forces in Ireland, and the Admiralty Commissioners to provide for its transport. Approved 7 Feb.
12. Order on a report about Sir Wm. Lockhart, ambassador in France, that he be allowed 100l. a week, and a warrant issued for its payment accordingly, and that 50l. be allowed to Mr. Swift, his secretary, for service in his late negociation in France. Approved 7 Feb. Annexing,
79. Report alluded to by a Committee of Council. [2/3 page.]
13. Order that 200l. be advanced to him on his said allowance, towards supporting his expenses.
14. Order on a letter from John Maidstone, Steward of the Household, that the Treasury Commissioners pay him 9,000l. for household expenses for the December quarter, from the first money coming in, and consult with the Committee on the household expenses how future payments shall be managed.
16. The money his Highness is advised to pay John and James Light, for reasons expressed in an order of 22 Jan. last, to be 200l., in place of the 147l. mentioned in the order.
17. The certificate of the Commissioners for peace in cos. Chester and Lancaster, with articles, depositions, &c., concerning Geo. Middleton, of Leighton, Somerford Oldfield, and others, referred by his Highness to Council, referred by them to Jones, Sydenham, Lord Deputy, Desborow, Mulgrave, Skippon, and Wolsley, to report.
19. The petition of Sir James Hamilton of Orleston, referred to the Scotch Committee, to report.
22. Order—on petition of the Lord Mayor, some Aldermen, and members of the Court of Common Council of London, who, being in attendance at the door were called in and presented it in person, and on an answer annexed to the propositions of George Boreman concerning the Ballasting Office, and other petitions; and on the Lord Mayor's representing that as Mr. Recorder was not present, the questioning of Boreman should be forborne—that next Tuesday the answers annexed to the Lord Mayor's petition and Boreman's proposal be consider, and a copy of the answer sent to Boreman.
23. Letters were signed according to an order of Parliament of 2 Feb., recommending Council to order the sending abroad of the declaration for thanksgiving through the 3 nations.
26. Whereas at Launceston assizes, on 24 March 1655, Edw. Pyott, George Fox, and Wm. Salt [Quakers], were indicted and convicted for several contempts and misdemeanours, and were fined for the same; Rich. Faireman and Geo. Bayly the same at Dorchester assizes, 24 July 1656; Thos. Boylstone, Priscilla Cotton, and 11 others, at Exeter, 2 Aug. 1656; and John Ellis, and 3 others, at Launceston, 9 Aug. 1656;—order that the clerks of assize for the western circuit forbear to estreat the Quakers for any of the said fines until further order. Approved by the Protector 7 Feb. [I. 77, pp. 665–674.]
Feb. 3
Whitehall.		 Pres. Lawrence to George Monk, Commander-in-Chief in Scotland. His Highness and Parliament having by declaration appointed Friday, Feb. 20, to be set apart as a day of public thanksgiving to the Lord, through the 3 nations, for the mercies therein set forth, Council herewith encloses copies of the declaration, and desires you to order their dispersion to the ministers of the various parishes. [I. 77, p. 673.]
Feb. 3.
Whitehall.		 President Lawrence to the sheriffs of the English counties. To the same effect. [I. 77, p. 673.]
Feb. 4. 80. Petition of the master, wardens, &c., of the parish clerks of London, Westminster, Southwark, and 15 out-parishes, to the Protector. By our charter of incorporation from Henry III., confirmed by succeeding kings, we are enjoined to make and print the weekly bill of mortality, each reporting the christenings and burials in our parishes. But as there are things in our charter inconsistent with the present government, and others defective, we beg a renewal, with alterations and amendments. With reference thereon to Council. [1 page.]
Feb. 4/14.
Paris.		 81. G. Stradling to Williamson. I cannot find means to send money to Mr. Norris, and so return it to you. Business affairs. I am going to Lyons, and then to Italy, for the plague has ceased in Rome and Naples, and is not so raging in other places. Mr. Wentworth and Mr. Arundel and his governor go with me. My late travelling companions, my cousin, Tom Stradling, and Mr. Scudamore, have behaved like madmen. Scudamore is in prison for not paying his debts. Details of their ill-conduct.
I have been at the King [of France's] ballet, at which he danced himself; he is a hopeful young man, and in time may make a good "maitre de danse." Other entertainments. I have been searching for old books, but the best I find are the geographical cartes of Sanson and Du Val.
Col. Finch is out of town, but I hear that the King of England and Duke of York are reconciled, the Duke having written very submissively to the King. It is thought that the Dutch are ready to quarrel with the English, but I do not believe it.
Young Whorwood is arrived in Paris; he wants money, &c. [3½ pages.]
Feb. 5. 82. Petition of Thos. Smithsby, executor of his son Thomas, to the Protector. By patent of 9 July 1655, you granted my son the office of clerk of the Privy Seal, which he executed ½ a year, and died, leaving debts and leagacies to pay. I beg his ½ years salary, 75l., and fees. With reference thereon to Council. [½ page.]
Feb. 5. Order for a Privy Seal for payment as desired. [I. 77, p. 681.]
Feb. 5. 83. Petition of Fras. Hollis, merchant, to the Protector. I have formerly detailed my losses by dententions of money, &c., for adhering to the nation's interest, viz., 15,000l. by the Dutch, French, late King, and King of Portugal, 4,000l. of which I fear to lose, with 1,500l. interest, because the Articles of Peace with the Dutch are not completed; 2,500l. seized in Spain, and 533l. lent the Long Parliament; total, 9,000l.
I beg in compensation a 99 years' lease of encroached lands in Selwood Forest, returned by inquisition in 1635, with the profits and arrears levied beyond Trent for the King or Earl of Newcastle, and never paid; also 1,000l. to better enable me to reap the fruit of your grant. [1 page.]
Feb. 5. Order that the 533l. be paid out of his discoveries of concealed lands, goods, &c., and ⅓ of all the other residue coming in thereupon, the Treasury Commissioners to order the levying thereof, &c. Approved in person. [I. 77, p. 678.]
Feb. 5. 84. Petition of Alice, widow of John March, to the Protector. My truly Christian husband was delivered from a long and expensive sickness by a pious death, and has left me with 2 small children, weak, and unable to bury him decently without help. I beg relief from your compassion, on account of his integrity in his employment in Scotland, and his readiness to go thither again, had not Providence prevented. With reference, 28 Nov. 1656, to Privy Council. [1 page.]
Feb. 5. Order thereon in Council for a warrant to Mr. Frost to pay her 20l. [I. 77, p. 682.]
[Feb. 5.] 85. Petition of the mayor, aldermen, and citizens of Chester, to the Protector. Randal, Earl of Chester, founded a hospital in the suburbs, with a revenue to maintain 13 poor feeble persons. The mastership has been time out of mind granted by the Kings by patent, and by the late King to Geo. Hope, by whose decease it is void and in your disposal. By neglect or corruption of the late masters or governors, the revenue is much decayed, and the rents embezzled, and thus the hospital ruined. We beg you to have the case examined, and a master appointed. With order thereon that the Major General settle a governor, and that he and the County Commissioners enquire into the case, and certify. 27 Nov. 1656. (fn. 1) [1 page.]
[Feb. 5.] 86. Petition of the mayor, aldermen, and citizens of Chester, to the Protector. On our former petition, touching a decayed hospital, founded by Randal, Earl of Chester, in the suburbs, for relief of the poor, you referred us to the Major General and 3 County Commissioners, who have taken great pains, and drawn up good expedients for establishing it, and the revenue. We beg you to confirm the rules they offer, and to pass a patent for their confirmation. With reference thereon to Council. 10 Jan. 1657. [½ page.]
Feb. 5. Reference thereon by Council to any 3 of their members, to consider, and report. [I. 77, p. 684.]
Feb. 5. 87. Petition of John Freeman, senr., merchant of London, to Council. By your order of 1 Feb. last, you permitted me to export 50 tons of saltpetre to Amsterdam, and I entered 16 tons 18 cwt. in the Custom House, London, but before I could ship the remainder, the Customs' Commissioners were forbidden, on any pretence, to accept any more entries of saltpetre. Since then the public has been so well supplied that the transport of so small a parcel can do no harm, and I am delivering large quantities of powder weekly by contract into the Tower. As I have been a great sufferer at sea by pirates, I beg leave to export the remaining 33 tons 2 cwt. [¾ page.]
Feb. 5. Order thereon granting the license requested. [I. 77, p. 684.]
Feb. 5. Council. Day's Proceedings.
(The entries marked thus* were approved in person.)
1. Approval of a grant by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers of an increase of 20l. beside the 20l. already granted to Thos. Harocks, minister of Malden, Essex.
2. Also of a like grant of 50l. to Rich. Byfield, to preach weekly to the parishioners of Kingston-on-Thames, and to help to carry on the ministry there by instructing the parishioners.
3. Also of an increase of 30l. to Rich. Mayo, minister of Kingstonon-Thames, so long as he remains minister. All approved by the Protector 7 Feb.
4. The petition of Simon Smith and Wm. Amys, of Hunston, co. Suffolk, referred to any 3 of Council, to report.
5. On petition of the mayor, jurates, merchants, and other inhabitants of Dover,—shewing that Henry VIII. founded the harbour there at his own great charge, and it has since been repaired at the public charge, and several Acts of Parliament passed to raise money by an imposition on all the shipping, which, though carefully employed, has proved insufficient; and that unless effectual means be taken to prevent it, the harbour is in danger of being suddenly destroyed by the violence of the sea; also on a letter to Maj.-Gen. Kelsey from the mayor and jurates, shewing the disaster that befel on 24 January through a breach made that morning by the violence of a storm, whereby hardly 3 yards of bank are left to secure the whole from destruction;—order that as Council is informed that 800l. belonging to the State is in the hands of Capt. Edw. Ower, of Canterbury, he is to pay the said money to the Commissioners of Dover Harbour for its restoration; and the Admiralty Commissioners to consider what further should be done herein. Approved 7 Jan.
His Highness present.
6.* Order that 3,000l. balance still due of 4,419l. 5s. 2d. owing to Jas. Boswell for victuals for the Parliament garrisons in Ireland, be paid out of discoveries made by him or on his behalf to the Commissioners for Discoveries.
7.* Order on petition of the parishioners of Martin's-in-the-Fields that the Trustees for sale of Dean and Chapter lands forbear perfecting the contract made with Charles Rich for purchase of the parcel of ground called Charing Cross till further order; Jones, Lambert, Mulgrave, and Strickland to speak with Rich and the petitioners about this business.
8.* Order that as Miles Sundercomb is committed to the Tower for high treason, and is now on his trial, the Lieutenant of the Tower allow such persons as he desires to come to him in reference to preparing for his trial, in presence of such persons as the lieutenant may appoint, and he is to set a good guard on Sundercomb to prevent his escape.
10.* To recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle on Dr. Philip Stephens, master of Hart Hall, in Oxford, an augmentation of 80l. a year.
12.* Order—on petition of Stephen Ford, pastor of a church in Chipping Norton, co. Oxon, which is a market town of over 3,000 persons, and has but 22l. a year and an augmentation of 36l., which is not sufficient to maintain himself and family—to recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle on him an augmentation which shall bring his whole salary up to 100l.
13. The Irish Committee to consider the case of officers and soldiers' widows and orphans and others concerned in arrears to the army in Ireland before 5 June 1649, and report to Council their advice.
14.* Order—on a report in the case of Dorothy, widow of Maj.Gen. Worsley, after recapitulation of orders of 18 July and 4 Sept. 1656 and 1 Jan. 1656–7—that a lease of so much of the estate of — Mompesson as shall come to 100l. a year clear be granted her for 99 years, and a warrant issued accordingly.
16.* Order—on report on the petition of Katherine, widow of Col. Thos. Cholmley, representing his good services and her poverty and charges—that 56l. be paid her to enable her to pay the debt for which her lands are extended, and all proceedings thereon stayed; and that 20l. a year be granted her for 99 years from Little Salkeld Manor, returned as part of the estate of the Dean and Chapter of Carlisle, but not yet sold, with the wood thereon, these sums to be discounted from Col. Cholmley's arrears of 1,521l. 13s. 4d.; the Committee to speak with the Gurney House Trustees how this may be made practicable, and to report. Annexing,
88. Report by Pickering and Strickland, on which the above order is founded. [Draft, 1 page.]
88. i. Katherine Lady Cholmley to —. I thank you for gaining the first two particulars of my petition, and beg that the remainder may be put into bonds for lands to be sold at Worcester House, or that I may have a lease of lands in Ireland. 27 Jan. 1656–7. [Scrap.]
20. Order—on report from the Committee on the petition of Thos. Dawson and other inhabitants of Swaffham, co. Norfolk, for letters patent for a collection in respect of a fire which happened there last July—that the petitioners be put in the same way of relief as were the inhabitants of Peterborough on a like occasion.
21. The report and papers in the case of Wm. Paul, farmer of prizage wines under Sir Wm. Waller, to be considered next Tuesday.
His Highness withdrew.
22. Order—on a report from the Attorney and Solicitor General on the order of 1 Jan. as to the charter for Chipping Wycombe:
That to the licence for purchasing lands be added a clause not to exceed 100l. a year in value.
That the clause forbidding persons to trade unless they have served 7 years, or to sell without license, be omitted. Also that for attaching money in the hand of a third person, and that for removing a suit not exceeding 50l.; and that empowering the Mayor and Common Council to appoint times for payment of money, in a suit where a burgess is concerned whom they conceive unable to pay.
The counsel learned to amend the draft as to form and expression.
A warrant to be issued to the Attorney-General to prepare a warrant according to the substance of the draft, with these alterations. Annexing,
89. Report by Att.-Gen. Prideaux and Sol.-Gen. Wm. Ellis, on which the above order is founded. 28 Jan. 1656–7. [1 page.]
89. i. Notes of sundry alterations and additions requested in the said charter, e.g., John Grove to be the first mayor, Geo. Timberlake and Wm. Silver the first bailiffs. The power formerly given for the borough of holding courts of record every 3 weeks for cases of debt and damage not exceeding 500l. to be extended to Great and Little Missenden and the adjacent parishes, &c., &c. [2 pages.]
89. ii. Certificate by22 inhabitants of Desborough hundred, 17 of Hitchendon-cum-Bransfee, 18 of Great Missenden, and 16 of Little Missenden, that the enlargement of privileges requested by the mayor, bailiffs, and burgesses of Chipping Wycombe, co. Bucks, with approbation of the MajorGeneral, justices, and gentlemen of the county, and of the freeholders of the adjacent parishes, to arrest and sue therein, will be to their advantage, by an easier, cheaper, and speedier way of suing than in the Nisi Prius county court. Given on an order of Council of 1 Jan. 1656–7, that the adjacent parishes show reasons to the contrary within 14 days. [1 sheet.]
23. The clerks of Council to state the case on the petition and papers of Abr. Johnson and others, claiming satisfaction for discovery of the silver ships, and present it to Council by next Thursday.
24. A stable to be built in the Mews for the captains and lieutenants of his Highness' lifeguard, and Lambert and Jones to view the place, and report how many horses it will be fit to provide for.
27. Order on a report from the Committee for Trade on the petition of the framework knitters [see 27 Dec. 1655] that a patent be granted incorporating them by the name and with the powers mentioned in the said report, and that the counsel learned prepare a patent accordingly. Annexing,
90. Report alluded to, giving13 heads of a proposed charter for the incorporation of the master, wardens, and assistants of the framework knitters. 13 April 1656. [4 sheets.]
29. John Birch and 5 others, who were ordered 10 Aug. 1655 to pay to Col. Wroth Rogers the balance in their hands of what was raised in co. Hereford for the service, when the Scots' army was defeated at Worcester, are to pay all such sums, or account to Council for not doing it.
30. Order on the representation of John Rushworth and Wm. Rowe, Registrars of the Admiralty Court, on Council's order of 18 Dec. 1656, to certify the total amount received by the deputyregistrar between the death of Mr. Wyan, late registrar, and Council's determination about Hugh Potter's claim,—they representing that from March 17, the date of Wyan's death, to Aug. 31 1654, the date of their patent, the deputy registrar received 523l. 3s. 9d. above rents, taxes, &c., and still holds it; and that Edmond Arnold, clerk examiner, holds 24l. 2s. 6d.; that from this the deputy-registrar's allowance is to be paid as actuary for 5 months 14 days, and also Arnold Crane, who was busily employed in winding up causes depending at the end of the Dutch and French wars, should have some allowance for the same interval; and that the profits of the office from Sept. 1654 to 1 Jan. 1656–7, viz., 2 years 4 months, are 987l., or about 423l. a year—that the registrar and clerk examiner pay over the said sums to Rushworth and Rowe, for their own use, and that they allow the deputy-registrar and Arnold their just dues. Approved 7 Feb.
91. 31. To advise the Admiralty Commissioners to give warrant to secure the mariners of the Endeavour of Portsmouth, i.e., 5 men and a boy, from impress, as they are engaged to carry some deer from the Earl of Warwick to Lord Robartes in Cornwall.
32. The order of 4 Sept., that the Worcester House Trustees should receive the debentures granted by the County Commissioners to the officers and soldiers under Col. Jervais Benson, in Westmoreland, vacated, and the Worcester House Committee ordered to audit and state their accounts, and give debentures for the arrears, which are to be transmitted to the Trustees for sale of the King's lands, who are to receive them, and give out bonds which are to be accepted on the purchase of Crown lands, in like manner with those given to the rest of the army. Approved 7 Feb.
33. The order of 25 Dec. 1656, for the Army Committee to transmit to the Trustees for sale of Crown lands duplicates of the debentures belonging to 360 men of his Highness' regiment at James's, to be put by them into bonds, vacated, and the Army Committee are to deliver the debentures to the Committee for stating the accounts of the soldiers, who are to receive these and other debentures not returned to the Army Committee, audit and state the accounts, and give debentures for the arrears due, on which the Trustees for sale of lands are to give out bonds to be accepted on purchase of any of the said lands. Approved 7 Feb.
34. A like order of 25 Dec. last, in reference to Maj. Wm. Hill of Guildford's debentures for 1,100l. 17s. 6d., for his arrears stated by the Commissioners for Monthly Assessments and disbanding Supernumeraries, vacated, and the Worcester House Committee to state his accounts and give debentures, on which bonds are to be given as in the preceding order. Approved 7 Feb.
38. Approval by the Protector of 2 orders of 3 Feb. [I. 77, pp. 675–689.]
Feb. 6. Council. Day's Proceedings.
6. Order in the case of Wm. Paul, farmer of the prizage of wines, and the several papers thereon, that as the question whether custom shall be paid for the prizage is a matter of right, Paul be left to take his course at law. [I. 77, p. 690.] Annexing,
92. Order in the Committee for Public Revenue that Sir Thos. Widdrington, Serjeant John Green, the Attorney-General Prideaux], and the Attorney of the Duchy [Barth. Hall] consider the Acts of Parliament, and certify whether Sir Wm. Waller, fee-farmer of the prizage of wines and butlerage of England, should by law pay customs for the said prizage; the farmers of customs to attend the Council thereon. Westminster, 20 Jan. 1654–5. [2/3 page.]
92. i. Report on the said order. On hearing of Sir Wm. Waller and his counsel, and of Col. Harvey, a Commissioner of Customs, and considering the Tonnage and Poundage Acts, we find that those Acts relate only to merchandize, and that prizage wine being a custom, and the wine the very duty, it is not accounted merchandize, nor liable to custom.
We did not find any subsidies for prizage wines (till of late), but we respited our opinions till the accounts of the late farmers of customs were perused, it being represented that they had obtained an abatement for the prizage of wines. But we did not find any such allowance in their last account of 1638, so we consider that Sir Wm. Waller ought not to pay customs for any prizage wines granted him. [1 page copy, certified 24 Feb. 1654–5.]
92. ii. Report by Col. Mackworth [and other Treasury Commissioners] on the petition of William, son and executor of Wm. Paul, farmer under Sir Wm. Waller, for freedom from customs for the prizage of wines in London and the western ports—that the prizage of wines has been paid to the Kings and Queens and their farmers, and allowed by Acts of Parliament, especially in one prepared by the Long Parliament, though not passed, because the King refused to pass the preamble. The duty was devised by King James to Lady Anne Waller for99 years or 3 lives, at a rent of500l., and under this lease petitioner claims. The question was before the late Public Revenue Committee, and by them referred to Council. On their report, we think the farmer should be exempted from payment of custom, and orders accordingly sent to the Customs' Commissioners. 24 May 1654. [1½ pages.]
92. iii. Order on the Committee of Council to whom the report of the Treasury on the petition of Wm. Paul was referred—that having consulted the Customs' Commissioners and Mr. Waller, they think the case one of law, and that in case Council do not determine the matter, they refer it back to the Treasury Commissioners. 8 Jan. 1656–7. [1 page, draft.]
Feb. 6.
Westminster.		 93. Nath. Fiennes and John Lisle to Robert Earl of Holland. Hen. Fleetwood and other complainants desire that you should be warned to appear in Chancery, to answer to a bill against you, and therefore we give you notice by this letter, according to the manner used to persons of honour, desiring you to give order to those whom you employ for your appearance and putting in your answer on 12 Feb. [1 page.]
Feb. 7. Approval by the Protector of 17 orders, 3–5 Feb. [I. 77, pp. 690–1.]
Feb. 9. 94. — to —. The party has sent several times to Mr. Rayes about the business, but can hear nothing of it. I shall send him this evening, in confidence that after so many promises you will send to Mr. Rayes, near Temple Bar, for Mr. Dickenson of the Middle Temple; otherwise I shall trouble you no further about it. Endorsed. A letter upon which, by Mr. Secretary's order, I delivered 200l. to Mr. Rayes. [2/3 page.]
Feb. 9.
3 Pigeons, Paul's Churchyard, London.		 95. Gerard Langbane to Williamson. I am glad you have fallen upon a son of Woolley Leigh, my intimate acquaintance when in college. As our college statute requires that all whom we choose into our society be Masters of Arts, I advise you to take the degree of licentiate at Saumur, and send me over an instrument of it, and a certificate of the University. Charles, son of old Sir Hen. Vane, had such a one 18 years ago, on which he was admitted ad eundem at Oxford. Thus you will be in capacity to be elected in convenient time, your absence notwithstanding, though I shall not consent for you to have any allowance till you come and are admitted in person. I cannot yet promise to gratify M. Amirault's desire about the Bible, as the 5th volume is not finished, but I hope in time to gratify so reverend and deserving a person. [1 page.]
Feb. 9. 96. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. Private affairs; purchase of clothes, books, &c. Lamplugh has been so tossed between Westminster and Reading that I think he will decline it. The Majors General are voted down, which makes discontent in the army. There will now be no great opposition why the Protector may not be King; 400,000l. is granted towards war with Spain. Mr. Barlow hopes to get the Archbishop of Armagh's vast library conferred on the public. Our thanksgiving day is not till 20 Feb. Before then, the principal actor [in the late plot], one Sundercomb, a discontented officer under trial, will suffer. It is thought the Protector will pardon his confederate, Cecill, who confesses the plot. A good ship going to Jamaica was taken by the Dunkirkers. [¾ page.]
Feb. 10. 97, 98. Petition of Laurence de Guores, and other subjects of the King of Sweden, to the Protector, for restoration of 159 pieces of ordnance taken in a ship during the wars with Holland in 1653, and brought to London as prohibited and contraband goods. With note of the guns. [2 papers.]
Feb. 10. 99. Reference thereon in Council to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report. [½ page; also I. 77, p. 695.]
Feb. 10. 100. Petition of Hen. Pawling, Mayor, the Aldermen and Common Council, the Governor and Company of Merchant Adventurers, and the Masters and Brethren of the Trinity House of Newcastle on Tyne, to the Protector and Council. We have suffered from Spanish men-of-war which took our ships, and keep our men captive, and we hear that some Dunkirk pirates have been sent on purpose to entrap ships employed in trade from this port, unless provision be made for convoy of the vessels trading between Newcastle, Holland, Hamburg, and the Baltic Sea. We beg help, and an order to the commanders of the convoy to observe such directions as the mayor and governor shall issue to them. [¾ page.]
Feb. 10. 101. Order that the Admiralty Commissioners appoint ships to protect that trade, as desired, and give order as far as possible according to the above petition. [1½ page; also I. 77, p. 677.]
Feb. 10. 102. Petition of the messengers and serjeants'-deputies attending Council to Council, for a privy seal for paying the warrants signed by his Highness for their quarter's salary ending 29 Dec. last. [¾ page.]
Feb. 10. Order thereon to request a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Frost 1,750l. for Council's contingencies, which he is to apply to paying the warrants of the messengers, &c., attending Council for the last quarter. [I. 77, p. 699.]
Feb. 10. 103. Petition of Ant. Cooke, late serjeant-quartermaster in Capt. Place's troop, in Col. Morgan's regiment of dragoons, to Council. I served from 1649 to Worcester fight, where I was sore wounded, and my cure cost me much. Then I went to Ireland, but the friend whom I requested to look after my arrears has not done so. I have 11l. 11s. 0d. due, and have applied to the Army Committee, but they cannot pay me without your order, which I beg. [1 page.]
Feb. 10. Order thereon that this sum, or as much as the Army Committee allows, be paid from such part of the 150,000l. assigned for arrears due to the army for service in Scotland between 20 May 1650 and 20 Oct. 1651, as is now remaining in the hands of the late Treasurersat-war, to whom a warrant is to be issued accordingly, the order of 24 Aug. 1655, limiting payments to 25 Dec. 1655 notwithstanding. Approved by the Protector 19 Feb. [I. 77, pp. 700–722.]
Feb. 10. 104, 105. Petition of Sir John Savill to the Protector. In 1649 I was appointed high sheriff of co. York, and passed my account in 1652 and received my discharge, showing that 264l. 10s. 9½d. is due to me. I beg a privy seal for payment. With reference 25 July 1656 to the Treasury Commissioners to certify, and their report in favour of payment 31 Dec. 1656. [2 papers.] Annexing,
105. i. Certificate by Sir Hen. Cooke, clerk of the pipe, that he served a year, and has 264l. 10s. 9½d. due. [Parchment.]
Feb. 10. Order thereon in Council ordering the payment without fees. [I. 77, p. 701.]
Feb. 10. 106. Petition of the well affected of St. Botolph's without, Aldgate, London, to the Protector. Having divers years enjoyed the labours of John Simpson as lecturer, and finding his ministry a blessing to us, and of great advantage towards the maintenance of our numerous poor, we beg that he may be allowed to lecture one part of the Lord's day, and one day in the week. 62 signatures, 6 being by mark. [2 sheets.][S.P. Dom. Interregnum 153]
Feb. 10. Order thereon revoking the former order about Mr. Simpson, and allowing him to preach at Aldgate on Lord's day afternoons, and one week day; the incumbent to yield obedience thereto. [I. 77, p. 701.]
Feb. 10. Council. Day's Proceedings.
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.)
1. A paper from Alderman John Frederic, about the Crowned Herring of London, referred to Montague, Jones, Lisle, Pickering, and the Lord Deputy, to consider and advise.
2, 3,* 4. Order—on his Highness' approval of last Friday's order concerning management of the East India trade by a united joint stock, exclusive to all others—that it be so managed, and the Committee on the charter of the East India Company to meet to-morrow afternoon.
5. The petition of James, Earl of Abercorn, referred to the Scotch Committee, to report.
6. A letter from Gen. Monk, dated Dalkeith, 3 Feb. 1656–7, read.
9. Order on reading articles exhibited against Leonard Carr, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, that Luke Kellingworth, Hen. Ogle, Hen. Horsley, John Ogle, and Capt. Toppin, governor of Tynemouth, learn the truth of the articles, and report.
10. The petition of the Levant Company, complaining of interruptions to trade in the Straits by the piratical fleets of Tripoli and Tunis, referred to the Admiralty Committee, to consider seriously; all the members of Council who are members of that Committee to attend the debate.
13. Lambert, Sydenham, Lord Deputy, Desborow, and Montague, to receive what is offered concerning Portland castle, and report their opinions.
14. Order—on a letter from Major John Pitson, governor of Portland Castle, and a certificate from James Dewy and Geo. Pley concerning its defects—to advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Pitson 50l., viz., 44l. for repair of the Castle, and 6l. for the guard who conveyed the Earl of Lauderdale from thence to Windsor Castle.
15. The requests of Sir Wm. Waller, on behalf of Wm. Paul, farmer of prizage wines, who was left to his course at law about paying customs, viz.,—that the taking of customs be forborne meantime; that if he gain his cause, he may defalk the customs already paid from his rent, and that he may give security for the customs, in case the trial goes against him,—referred to Sydenham, Jones, Lisle, Pickering, Wolsley, Lord Deputy, Mulgrave, Montague, and Strickland, to report.
16. Order on report from the Treasury Commissioners concerning the estate of Rob. Mason, that Wm. Sedgwick treat with Mr. Hussey about a sum to be paid as compensation for Mason's estate, consulting with the Treasury Commissioners, who are to advise with Sedgwick, and report.
17.* Rob. Mason to be allowed to come over to England, on agreement made with Mr. Hussey.
18. The petition of Sir Alex. Inglish, of Eggleston, referred to the Scotch Committee, to report.
21. The report from the Admiralty Commissioners—representing on what grounds it might not be convenient to alter the course of trade by appointing a consul at Tetuan, on the coast of Barbary, and yet that it might be very convenient for victualling the fleet that there should be a providore there; that Nath. Luke is a fit person, and that Gen. Blake might commission the captains of the fleet sent there to treat with the governor or magistrates of the town for articles of free commerce—agreed with, and the Admiralty Commissioners to prepare such instructions for Luke, and such rules as may make the latter part of the report practicable and advantageous. Annexing,
107. Certificate by Capt. Rich. Badiley, that when he was in the southward expedition, under Gens. Blake and Montague, the governor of Tetuan urged the Generals to have a public minister, to maintain a good correspondence between his subjects and our fleet, and that if none be appointed, he will be much displeased; and then, as during the difference with Spain our ships must go there to water, they will not order their garrisons to secure our men, but leave them to be destroyed and carried captive up into the land, and there will be also loss of time in the watering.
Any public minister employed as providore, could within 4 or 5 days buy oxen half as cheap again as in England, and could supply other refreshments. I recommend Nath. Luke, who has traded to and lived in Tetuan, to be employed as salaried provider. 29 Dec. 1656. [1¼ pages.]
107. i. Certificate by Capt. R. Badiley, that when the fleet was in Tetuan last Midsummer for fresh water, &c., the governor treated them very courteously, letting them have what the country could afford, and sent a messenger to the Generals to request articles to be interchangeably ratified between them and him, and to have a public minister from England to whom to complain in case the English did any injury. The Generals excused themselves on account of haste, but I think it most necessary (during this breach with Spain), that an agent, consul, or provider should be sent, or they of Tetuan will be ill-disposed to our fleet, and delay them, whereas with a minister, they might soon have water, and 400 or 500 head of oxen. " My house in Wapping." 3 Jan. 1656–7. [1½ pages.]
107. ii. Adm. Edw. Montague to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. I hear of an application made to you about an agreement to be made with those of Tetuan, on the coast of Barbary, within the Straits' mouth. I knew something of the place last summer, and think it very convenient to be done, both for our merchants, who have a pretty trade there, but no ground of security (more than confidence in the fair dealing of the inhabitants), which discourages them from living in the city; nor have they such privileges as they might, on a capitulation and the settling of a consul there. It would also be useful to the State, this being the chief place in the Straits for our ships to water or victual at. It would be well for us to be free to do this, for now it is wholly loose, and though we had the benefit of it last summer, yet we often, when we sent for water, had to wait for a license from the governor, and to give him a present. A consul would transact business for the fleet.
When we were there, the governor of Tetuan much wanted an agreement for commerce, but our haste to return to Cadiz hindered a conclusion; hereafter there will be opportunity for it, if Gen. Blake be put in mind to effect it.
I hear that Mr. Luke, a son of Sir Sam. Luke, is commended to you for employment there. I think him a fit person, and have heard Vice-Admiral Badiley commend him much. When we were at Sally, we had thoughts of employing him in the like condition, if the peace had been concluded. Hinchingbrook. 10 Jan. 1656–7. [2 pages.]
107. iii. Certificate by Capt. Rich. Badiley in favour of Nath. Luke, of whose honesty and ability he has had 5 years' experience, as agent for Tetuan, having negotiated with the governor, and traded among the people. 15 Jan. 1656–7. [¾ page.]
107. iv. Answer of the Levant Company to the Admiralty Commissioners. On your request for our opinion as to the establishment of a consul at Tetuan, on the coast of Barbary, we offer—
That Tetuan being no port, but an open road exposed to contrary winds, there can be no great hopes of further trade than is already exercised by the inhabitants repairing for barter to the ships, and this avoids the paying of custom. This privilege would, we fear, be lost by landing goods there, and they would be insecure in a place where there is no appeal to any superior jurisdiction, Tetuan being subject, not to the Grand Seignior, but to the King of Morocco, with whom the State has no trade capitulations. We therefore think that it will be better to continue the practice of trading on shipboard, and that there is no need of a public minister. Signed by M. Evans, Sec. [¾ page.]
107. v. Report of the Admiralty Commissioners on a reference of 8 Jan. 1656–7, that they agree with the above answer as to a minister at Tetuan, yet think it would be advantageous to the fleet to have a provider of victuals there, and that Nat. Luke is a suitable person.
Also they think that Gen. Blake should be empowered to give commission to such captains as are sent to Tetuan to treat with the governor or magistrates on articles necessary for maintaining free commerce and trade. 10 Feb. 1656–7. [¾ page.]
22. A certificate from the Commissioners of Discoveries,—about the concealment and detention of ancient duties called proxies and synodalls, arising out of manors, parsonages, &c., and payable to the late archbishops, bishops, archdeacons, &c., and a paper signed by Col. Ben. Norton, Wm. Murford, and Maurice Gardiner, of reasons why the county sheriffs should not have the collecting of moneys due thereon, but they should have particular collectors;—referred to Desborow, Sydenham, Jones, and Lambert, to report. Annexing,
108. Report by Ra. Hall and 4 others, detailing the discovery of the said concealed duties by Wm. Murford, merchant of Norfolk, and the results of their enquiries therein. 12 Aug. 1656. [3 sheets.]
108. i. Reasons by Col. Ben. Norton, &c., why the said duties should have particular collectors. [1 sheet.]
23. Whereas Nich. Lockyer was ordered 2,500l. out of his discoveries, in lieu of 200l. a year out of Dean and Chapter lands, but his discoveries have not taken effect, Lambert, Pickering, the Lord Deputy, and Strickland are to think of some other fit way by which a part of it may be speedily advanced to him, and report.
25. The petition of Sir Job. Hardy, referred by the Protector to Council, referred to Lambert, Lord Deputy, Mulgrave, and Strickland, to report.
26. 5l. a day to be allowed to Lord Commissioner Whitelock, the present Speaker, above what was allowed to Lord Commissioner Widdrington as Speaker. Approved 19 Feb.
27. Jessop to present at the next sitting of Council a breviate of the arrears certified to be due for service at Jamaica, for which order is not already taken.
29. The petition of Maj. Geo. Walters referred to the Irish Committee, to report.
30. The letter of Capt. Geo. Watkinson and others to Maj.-Gen. Lilburne, concerning securing Sir Edw. Widdrington and other gentlemen of Northumberland, with their papers and examinations, also Sir Edw. Widdrington's petition, referred to Lambert, Maj.-Gen. Lilburne, and Maj.-Gen. Howard, to report their advice.
32. Order on information by Ralph Rymer, receiver for co. York, and other commissioners for the peace of the county—that Sheffield Stubbs, in Easter term, 1652 procured a judgment on Allerton, and Mauleverer Manors and Park, then in possession of Sir Thos. Mauleverer and against Sir Rich. Mauleverer, for 100l. debt and 40l. damages, which manors, &c., on 6 Sept. 1655 were delivered him by John Bright, late high sheriff, so that the premises are in danger of distress, and the payment of the rent to the Commonwealth obstructed—that the Treasury Commissioners examine into the debt, speak with Maj.-Gen. Lilburne, and certify what the total amounts to, that the State may be freed from this incumbrance.
109. 33. Thos. Simons being ordered to provide a seal for the County Palatine of Durham, the cost of which will be 30l., 15l. is to be at the State's charge and paid out of the profits that accrue by the court of the said county.
35. Order on a paper from John Wale, warder of the Tower, concerning Major Henry Norwood and Capt. Rich. Dutton, his prisoners, their poverty and disability to maintain themselves, and their keeper's disbursements for their maintenance—that Sir John Barkstead certify to Council the state of the said prisoners, and the demands of the keeper.
Feb. 10.
Whitehall.		 The Protector Cromwell to Lord Henry Cromwell.
"Sonne Harry."
Col. Symon Rugely, the bearer hereof, has been very active in the cause of the Commonwealth, almost to the ruin of his estates, which in spite of his endeavours, and something determined by us, he has been unable to repair, or get satisfaction for considerable debts owed for personal service. We therefore recommend him to you as well qualified for some employment in Ireland, whether civil or military, and desire you to give him a lease of convenient lands there for him and his family to settle on at once, and if you have no employment for him at once, wait for a vacancy. [I. 77, p. 963.]
Feb. 10.
Whitehall.		 President Lawrence to the sheriffs of the respective counties. Having, by the enclosed declaration, appointed 20 Feb. as a day of public thanksgiving throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland, for mercies therein set forth, we desire you to distribute the copies of it sent herewith to the ministers within your jurisdiction, to use as therein directed. With a list of the counties, cities, and towns, and note of the numbers of declarations to be sent to each. [I. 77, pp. 965–6.]
Feb. 12. 110. Petition of John Lord, gunner in the Tower to the late King, to the Privy Council. Is aged and sickly, and has long attended in a deplorable condition to recover the debt of 82l. 2s. 6d. due to him [see 4 Sept. 1655]. Begs payment out of such discovery as he may make on the Act of 7 Oct. 1653. [½ page.]
Feb. 12. Order thereon in Council that the 80l. 5s. 8d., which by Fauconberg's certificate of 2 Sept. 1654, is due to him, be paid out of his discoveries; the Treasury Commissioners to take order for levying them, and certify what is brought in thereon. [I. 77, p. 709.]
Feb. 12. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Approval of the augmentation advised by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, of 12l. for the schoolmaster of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis, co. Dorset. Approved by the Protector 19 Feb.
2. Order on a report on the estate of John Penruddock [see 17 Dec. 1656]—that his estate in co. Wilts, being but for life, fell to the next in reversion; that in Wiltshire he has Hethleton Farm, worth 120l. a year, that his personalty is 399l. 8s. 2d., of which 199l. 8s. 2d. is paid in, and the rest to be paid this term, and that he left a young son and 5 daughters unprovided for—that the 200l. unpaid of his personalty be pardoned, and paid to Arundel Penruddock, the widow, for the 6 younger children. Annexing,
111. Report alluded to, signed by Montague and Sydenham. 6 Feb. 1656–7. [1 page.]
111. i. Deposition of Seymour Bowman that there is no provision for the younger children, the estate co. Wilts being settled on the wife for jointure and the eldest son, and the lease of Hethleton Farm settled for 30 years to pay debts of 2,600l. exceeding its value, and the reversion in fee forfeited. 4 Feb. 1656–7. [Parchment.]
3. The petition of Pat. Gillespie, principal of Glasgow University, referred to the Scotch Committee, to report.
4. That of Mary Sankey, widow, and the certificate from the Sequestration Commissioners, referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to report.
5, 6, 8, 9. Approval of the following augmentations advised by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers:—
£
Hen. Butler, St. Nicholas, Warwick 30
— Venner, Mary's, " 30 in lieu of 50l. paid formerly. 30
Hen. Townley, Litlington, Cambridge 35
Minister of Steeple Mardon, " 25
" Tadlow, " 17
" Gilden Marden, " 22
Schoolmaster, Basingbourne " 9
All approved by the Protector 19 Feb.
7. Mr. Blower appointed public minister at Woodstock, co. Oxon, the augmentation of 60l. to be allowed to him as to his predecessor, and the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to order its payment accordingly. Approved 19 Feb.
10. Order on petition of Wm. Beale, minister of Stow-on-theWold, co. Gloucester, and other inhabitants—shewing that the parish church is so decayed that they cannot worship there in wet or stormy weather, nor at any time without danger, and that the best place to use as a substitute is the school house, which is not used on Sundays—that the said minister and inhabitants have liberty to meet in the school house on Sundays till further order, if they do no detriment to it, and Thos. Peirly, schoolmaster, and others concerned, are to allow it accordingly, and the inhabitants to take order to repair their church speedily. Approved 19 Feb.
11. The report from the Committee of Council on the Quakers in Sussex [see 6 Jan. 1656–7], referred to Pickering and Desborow, to speak with Maj.-Gen. Goffe thereon. Annexing,
112. Report alluded to, 12 Feb. 1656–7. [½ page.]
15. The Admiralty Commissioners to take effectual order for the delivery of the arms ordered 25 Nov. and 2 Dec. last, for the militia forces raised by Col. Hen. Smith in co. Oxon.
16. The 500 barrels of powder ordered on Oct. 1 to be sent to the forces in Ireland to be now sent, also 1,000 firelocks with works, 2,000 matchlocks with works, 1,000 collars of bandoleers, and 4 gynn ropes, and the Ordnance officers to arrange with the Admiralty Commissioners to send them in fit ships with a convoy, and give in duplicate indentures of the said lading, to transmit to the Council in Ireland, to enable them to demand the same as what is put aboard here; and if the Tower stores need replenishment to meet this and other demands, the Admiralty Commissioners are to contract for their supply accordingly. Approved 19 Feb.
17. The petition of John Machon, clerk, concerning the mastership of Sherborne Hospital, near Durham, referred to Wolsley, Sydenham, Jones, Strickland, to report.
113. 18. The Admiralty Commissioners to appoint a convenient ship to transport Lady Anne Montague, her attendants, and necessaries to France.
19, 20. Approval of the augmentations of 50l. to Ralph Hall, minister of Newcastle-under-Lyne, co. Stafford, and of 18l. to Rich. Haberly, minister of Longstanton, co. Salop, recommended by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers. Approved by the Protector 19 Feb.
21. Order—on report from the Committee on Lionel Beecher's petition [see 22 Jan. 1656–7], that he has only received 70l. 14s. 1d. though he discovered sums due on assessments, &c., amounting to 1,131l. 17s. 10d., which the Army Committee have certified to be recoverable debts, but they are scattered in remote parts, Wales, Cornwall, Suffolk, &c., and therefore that the balance of 933l. 11s. 6d. should be paid from the Exchequer—that a warrant be drawn accordingly, vacating the former privy seal for 1,004l. 7s. 5d., and that the Treasury Commissioners cause prosecutions for the sums discovered, and bring them in. Annexing,
114. Report alluded to on which the order is founded. [1 page.]
114. i. Army Committee to Col. Phil. Jones. We believe the debts in the list you sent are justly due, and may be recovered on proceedings at Westminster, 11 Feb. 1656–7. [2/3 page.]
22. Order—on report from the Committee on petition of Robt. Worral, keeper of Grettam Lodge, Rockingham Forest, co. Northampton, who apprehended at great personal hazard 4 notorious coiners, and defrayed their charge while they stayed at his house before their legal conviction, and also apprehended 6 notable highwaymen—to advise an order to pay him 50l. as a reward.
28. The petition of Walter Grosvenor, of Tattenthall, co. Stafford, for discharge of the rest of his composition fine, with his papers, referred to Mulgrave, Wolsley, Sydenham, Strickland, and Lisle, to report. [I. 77, pp. 702–711.]
Feb. 15.
Antwerp.		 Marquis of Newcastle to Sec. Nicholas. Thanks for yours of the 22nd. I am much rejoiced at the kindness of the King and Duke of York. My old friend and neighbour, Sir Gervase Clifton, 70 years old at least, has married Lady Alice Hastings, sister to Lord Loughborough, with 4,000l. portion. This is his 7th wife, the next will be the 8th, and then I believe the mark will be out of his mouth. I speak like an experienced horseman. The lady is in years for a maid, a pretty tough hen for this Lent, without eggs.
I am tormented about my book of horsemanship; the printing will cost me 1,300l., which I could never have done but for my good friends Sir H. Cartwright and Mr. Loving. I hope they will not lose by it. I hope to see you next summer. Endorsed by Nicholas as received the 17th. [1¾ pages. Flanders correspondence.]
Feb. 17. 115. Petition of Jas. Guthry and Jas. Simpson, ministers, and the eldership of the congregations of Stirling, to the Protector. On the death of David Bennet, 2 years ago, we, with approval of the majority of the magistrates, called Rob. Rule to be our minister, and got the stipend of the second minister in Stirling settled on him. But a disaffected party, opposing godliness and reformation have, ever since 1638, carried on malignant courses, and separated themselves from our ministry, and having contrived 6 months after a change of magistrates, they obtained the appointment of Matthias Simpson, formerly minister in the north of England, "who sews pilions under their arm holes," and bears down opposers, and to him they have given the maintenance of the second minister, and ½ the preaching place. This has encouraged other malignants in congregations to separate from their pastors, and receive ministers after their own mind, and has lifted up the head of the malignant party in Stirling, and is likely to deprive the people of Mr. Rule's ministry, for want of maintenance, and may do of Mr. Guthrie's too, the opposition against him for 7 years has been so strong. We beg Mat. Simpson's removal, and the restoration of the maintenance to Rule. [1 sheet.]
Feb. 17. Reference thereon by Council to the Committee for Scotland, to report. [I. 77, p. 713.]
Feb. 17. 116. Petition of Peter Sterry to the Protector. The Long Parliament gave at the same time 100l. a year each to Dr. Owen, Dr. Moulin, Mr. Hartlib, Mr. Haak, and myself, from undervaluations, which ceasing, the other 4 have had their arrears and 100l. a year settled on them by Privy Seal out of the Exchequer. I beg the same allowance. With holograph reference by the Protector to Council. [1 page.]
Feb. 17. Order thereon granting the petition; Lambert, Lord Deputy, and Sydenham to see it done, and report. [I. 77, p. 714.]
Feb. 17. 117. Petition of Hamon Ward and other merchants of London to Council. On an order of 20 Nov. last [see p. 165 supra] his Highness issued a privy seal for payment to us of 5,382l. 9s. 11d. balance due for redemption of captives at Algiers. We beg that it may be paid out of 3,000l. which the late Commissioners of Customs are to pay into the Treasury next April, and 3,000l. next July. [1 page, damaged.]
Feb. 17. Note of its reading in Council. [I. 77, p. 715.]
Feb. 17. 118. Petition of the Greenland Company to the Protector and Council. By the Navigation Act, Parliament prohibited the import of whale and fish oil and fins, unless caught by ships of this nation, on penalty of confiscation of ships and goods. But this notwithstanding, large quantities have been brought in from Holland and elsewhere, and the Customs' officers and those appointed to seize the goods have connived, and accepted a low composition for them, so that the revenues have been diminished, merchants discouraged, our navigation prejudiced, and that of foreigners improved. We have had great losses in our late voyages, and have large stocks on hand that we cannot sell, so that without help we must give up the fishing trade, and it must fall into the hands of the Dutch and others. We beg an order to the Customs' Commissioners and others not to take these compositions, but to seize and confiscate the goods. [1 page.]
Feb. 17. Reference thereon to Montague, Lambert, Sydenham, Lisle, Jones, and Pickering, to report. [I. 77, p. 721.]
Feb. 17. Council. Day's Proceedings.
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.)
1. In the order of 10 Feb. concerning John Simpson the words "On the Lord's day, in the afternoon, and one of the week days, and that the incumbent do yield obedience hereunto," to be substituted for "as formerly."
2. Wm. Ashburnham to be removed from Rochester to where he was formerly imprisoned.
3. Order on a letter from Hugh Well, Edm. Rolfe, and Nich. Gunton, 3 commissioners for surveying Enfield Chace—shewing that great waste and damage of timber takes place, that Lambert be advised to station 12 horse in the towns bordering on the Chace, with power to seize the tools of such as shall offend, and all such wood as they find ready cut or carrying away.
4, 5. Order on report from the Admiralty Commissioners—that it is time to appoint ships for the summer guard of the coasts, submitting a list of 61 ships, with the numbers of men and guns required, total 6,760 men—that the list is approved, and the Admiralty Commissioners empowered to order the full fitting out. Approved 19 Feb.
6. To remind his Highness that this is but the ordinary guard, and enquire his pleasure concerning the Providence and Yarmouth, which are set apart on a particular service.
7, 8. Approval of the augmentations of 50l. each to the ministers of Helston, Saltash, and Truro, co. Cornwall, out of the impropriate rectory of St. Keverne, conveyed on Sir Thos. Hele's composition; and of 30l. to Thos. Gayton, minister of Kirkella, co. York, recommended by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers. Approved by the Protector 19 Feb.
9. The petition of Sir Andrew Carr referred to the Scotch Committee, to report.
11. Order—on report from the Attorney-General, annexed to the draft of a patent prepared by the counsel learned on an order of 13 Jan., to the purport of a written agreement from the Provost of Edinburgh for the physicians of Scotland to erect a college of physicians there—to advise an order to the Attorney-General to prepare a patent for signature accordingly.
12. The assessment of 10,000l. a month for Scotland to begin from 1 Jan. last, and ordered to be levied accordingly. Approved 19 Feb.
13. Approval of the augmentation of 20l. to Rich. Jones, schoolmaster of Denbigh, advised by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers. Approved by the Protector 19 Feb.
14. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle an augmentation of 20l. on the minister of Southwell, co. Notts. Approved 19 Feb.
15. The petition of Col. Fowke referred to the Irish Committee, to report.
16. On petition of Josiah Hunter, minister of Littlensburne, co. York,—that as the vicarage is worth but 20 marks a year, beside the augmentation of 16l. 13s. 4d. granted out of Littlensburne Rectory, which is worth 50l., and is now forfeit to the State by Maj. Robt. Walters, who was in the late plot, the profits of the said rectory may be allowed him during Walters' lease for two lives, or else during petitioner's life:—order that during the said 2 lives, viz., that of Walters, and Elizabeth Ibson, his sister, they settle an augmentation of 40l. on the minister of Littlensburne; and when through their death the rectory comes to the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, they settle the augmentation of 40l. out of its profits. Approved 19 Feb.
17. Order on information that Landguard Fort, which is a great security to Harwich harbour, is much decayed, and the garrison most of them quartered in the country, for want of bedding,—that it be surveyed for repair, and an estimate made of the charge, and that a warrant be advised of 200l. to Maj. Mat. Cadwel, the governor, on account for the repairs, and the buying of bedding for the soldiers.
19. Order on the certificate of the Committee for Redemption of Captives—that they issued orders to the Commissioners of Customs, out of 5,000l. lent by them in 1652 to Rich. Hutchinson, Navy Treasurer, from moneys received for redemption of captives to be repaid out of customs, to pay 1,600l. to Eliz. Bagnall, sister and administratrix of Edm. Casson, appointed by Parliament in 1646 agent for redemption of captives at Algiers, in payment of 150l. due to him on his account, and the rest for his services. Also that they ordered 400l. to Richard Casson, employed under Edm. Casson, for his services; but neither of these sums are paid, the Customs' Commissioners assigning reasons why they have no power therein, nor any concern in the matter— that the case be referred to Sydenham, Desborow, the Lord Deputy, and Strickland, to consider the best way of satisfying Mrs. Bagnall and R. Casson, to speak with members of Parliament thereon, and to report. Annexing,
118. a. Certificate of the Committee for Redemption of Captives alluded to, giving further details. The Commissioners of Customs refuse payment because the loan to the Navy Treasurer was not in their time, and they are bound to pay all they receive into the Treasury. [22/3 pages.]
20. Order on report from the Admiralty Judges on a reference on the Charity of Amsterdam, seized by the Essex frigate, that she be discharged, and allowed to continue her voyage. Approved 19 Feb.
21. To add "and the usual practice of that court" to an order of Council of 18 Dec. last concerning the Daniel of Flushing.
22. The petition of divers well affected inhabitants of West Bromwich parish, co. Stafford, for an augmentation of 20l. a year for their minister; of the bailiffs, burgesses, and other inhabitants of Bewdly parish, co. Worcester, for an addition to the former augmentation of 50l. granted their minister; of the parishioners of Areley, co. Stafford, for an augmentation of 50l. to their minister; of the inhabitants of Kenelmes, Romsley, and Hunington, in the parish of Hales-Owen, co. Salop, for maintenance for a minister for them— referred to the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers. Approved 19 Feb.
23. Order on petition and certificates of Rich. Cable, late of Moreby, co. Lincoln, clerk, that the Committee for Approbation of Public Preachers, examine him and his papers, and if fit, approve him as a preacher of the Gospel. Approved 19 Jan.
24. The business of the Ballasting Office to be considered next Thursday, and notice given to the Lord Mayor, Mr. Boreman, and others.
27. Mr. Embree to put the room under the Banqueting House into the best repair he can for, for accommodation of such officers of the guard of Col. Mills' regiment as are from time to time on duty there.
28. The report on the petition of Wm. Paul, farmer of the prizage to wines, to be considered on Thursday.
30. The Admiralty Commissioners to order present payment of 5 weeks' arrears to Ely House and Savoy Hospital, and future pay in such sort as may relieve the poor there as intended. Approved 17 Feb.
31. The managers of the above hospitals to admit as a pensioner Wm. Croft, who was wounded in the State's service, and has a wife and children to support.
32. Order on the previous order of 11 Sept. 1656, in the case of the Marquis of Argyle, and on his request of 12 Feb. 1656–7,—that being sued for a public debt by the Countess of Dirleton, and having borrowed 1,000l. of Col. Ralph Cobbett to discharge it, Council will order the speedy payment thereof by the collector of the excise of wines, &c., in Scotland, which sum he will accept in part of the 12,116l. 13s. 4d. due to himself—granting the said request, and warranting payment as requested. Approved 19 Feb.
119. Request of the Marquis of Argyle on which the above order was given. 12 Feb. 1656–7. [1½ pages.]
119. i. Corrected draft of the above. [1¾ pages.]
119. ii. Draft warrant to the Commissioners of Excise at Leith for payment of the above. [½ page.]
33*. Order on consideration of the condition of Gen. Blake's fleet, that the Providence and Yarmouth now at Portsmouth, convoy the ships at Portsmouth laden with beer to Gen. Blake, with letters to say that the Rainbow, James, Kentish, and Elias, will soon be sent after to the Bay of Wyer.
34. Mr. Jessop to attend Col. Montague in preparing a letter accordingly, for his Highness' signature.
35. The report of Mr. Peck and the rest of the Committee on Charters, concerning the charter for Gateshead, co. Durham, referred to the Committee of Council on Charters, to report.
36. Order on report from the Committee on some fit way for Nich. Lockyer's satisfaction for the 2,500l. mentioned in several orders, on which his Highness issued Privy Seal letters for the money to be paid from sums coming in from the late Commissioners for Discoveries, viz., 2,206l. 11s. 7½d., with interest, which they acknowledge to be in their hands, but have not yet sent in—to advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Lockyer 500l. towards the 2,500l. formerly ordered, which sum shall be made good to the Exchequer from discovery money; and the same Committee to consider how 500l. more may speedily be paid him.
38. Peter Blondeau's business about coining in his newly invented way to be considered next Thursday. [I. 77, p. 711–722.]
Feb. 18.
Lowther.		 120. Elizabeth, Lady Lowther, to Williamson. I am sad that my son repines at the circumscribing of his thoughts, not his expenses, the sum limited being the full of what he will find at his return, and more than would have been allowed for his education had his father lived. It is an ill recompense for the pains his friends and I have taken with his estate. If travels make him soar above his sphere, I must hope comfort in his return, and gratitude when he knows the state his affairs were in when we undertook them. He is nearly as old as my father was when my grandfather died, and left him to manage an estate 4 times as large, and family cares and business in Parliament, which he so managed as to increase his estate ½, and provide for a numerous issue; so I hope if he will be tractable, and not aim at things above his reach, he may soon manage his own affairs. We intend to go to Scotland at Midsummer, to consult his friends about him before his return. My brother will send you money where you direct.
I thought philosophy and other arts taught men a temper far outgoing feminine weakness, but I doubt the vanities of his companions will make deeper impressions than your instructions. I will not abridge his fantasy in much, or anything my brother complies in, though such things are pleasures rather than perfections in gentlemen. A few things thoroughly known are better than grasping at all. I had rather he were threadbare than have vain habits and a vainer head.
P.S.—My brother will send money to my cousin Northleigh, whom you must direct to what town to send it. [3 pages.]
Feb. 18/28.
Paris.		 121. C. George to Williamson. I send you enclosures. I have given yours to Mr. Whorwood, and furnished him with money. [1 page.]
[Feb. 19.] 122. Petition of Manasseh Ben Israel to the Protector. What modesty forbids, necessity, ingens telum, compels; that having been long very sickly, I beg you, my only succourer in this land of strangers, to help me. I do not prescribe the way, but having experienced your compassion as well as majesty, I lay myself at your feet.
Feb. 19. Order in Council advising his Highness to grant him a pension of 100l. a year for his subsistence. [I. 77, p. 726.]
Feb. 19. 123. Petition of John Hingston, David Mell, Wm. Howse, Rich. Hudson, and Wm. Gregory, for themselves and other professors of music, to the Committee of Council for Music. By the dissolution of the choirs in cathedrals, many of us have died in want, and there being no encouragement for music, no man will breed his child in it, so that the science must die in this nation with those few professors now living, or must degenerate. We beg the erection of a college of musicians, with power to practise music publicly, to suppress obscene and scandalous songs and ballads, to reform the abuses in the making of musical instruments, and in all things to regulate the profession; with power to buy lands, and have a common seal, and with restoration of such lands and revenues as have been heretofore employed for maintenance of music. 5 signatures. [1 page.]
Feb. 19. Order thereon in Council that Lisle, Montague, Pickering, Mulgrave, the Lord Deputy, Sydenham, and Lambert, be a Committee to receive addresses in order to the advancement of music, and to report. [I. 77, p. 730.]
Feb. 19. Council. Day's Proceedings.
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.)
1. Approval by the Protector of numerous orders 10–17 Feb.
2. Out of the money coming in on Sir Thos. Vyner and Backwell's contract for prize Spanish plate and money, Embree is to receive 5,000l. towards the 9,857l. 16s. 4¾d. ordered by Privy Seal on his account for the cost of repairing his Highness' houses to Nov. 30, 1656.
3. Embree to buy no more building materials, nor employ more workmen, nor begin any fresh work towards repair of his Highness' houses, without special warrant. This order to take place from Jan. 22, when he was first restrained, and the auditors to state his accounts for the repairs of the above houses, and not to allow demands for anything new since Jan. 22, without his Highness' special warrant. Approved 12 March.
4. Order—on report on the case of Peter Sterry [see 26 June 1656, and 17 Feb. 1656–7]—for a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay him 475l. arrears of his allowance of 100l. a year, and the allowance in future, till the provision ordered by Parliament is made for him.
5. Rob. Taylor to be a commissioner for surveying Kingswood Forest in Rob. Fairbeard's place; and Lieut.-Col. John Kensey and Geo. Sergeant commissioners for Merewood Forest in place of Gabriel Taylor and Vincent Winge; and his Highness to be advised to renew the respective commissions accordingly.
His Highness present.
6,* 7.* Approval of augmentations, advised by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, of 10l. to John Devenish, minister of Weston Zoyland, co. Somerset, above the 50l. allowed, and of 32l. to the minister of Worksop, co. Notts, above the 8l. allowed.
8.* Order to pay out of the property and casualty revenue in Scotland 100l. a year to [Mary Buchanan] Lady Scotch Craig, for subsistence, the late order of Council, of 11 Dec. 1656, for payment of 10,000l. of that money to the Exchequer in England notwithstanding, and the Council of Scotland to issue their warrant for payment accordingly.
10. The petition of Thos. Symon in right of his wife and co-heirs, against John Fautrart of Guernsey, appellant, and the report from the referee for Guernsey; also the petition of Capt. John Fautrart, referred to Lambert, Jones, Wolsley, Desborow, and Pickering, to report.
12. The petition of the owners, masters, and traders for coals to Newcastle and Sunderland, in Ipswich, Lym, Yarmouth, Woodbridge, &c., referred to the Committee on the petition of the captains, &c., of ships trading to Newcastle for coals, to report.
14.* Approval of a grant, by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, of an augmentation of 20l. to the schoolmaster of Aldwinkle, co. Northampton.
15. The debate on the report concerning Sir Wm. Waller's desire about the custom of prizage wines to be considered on Tuesday.
124. Report alluded to, signed by Fleetwood, Wolsley, and Pickering, that the Commissioners of Customs be required to appear in the suit to be commenced by Sir Wm. Waller or by Wm. Paul, farmer under him of the prizage wines, concerning the custom imposed on them by the said Commissioners, and that they take care that the suit be presented speedily, but take no customs meantime, Waller and Paul giving security for the customs if the trial go against them. Also that the Treasury Commissioners be empowered to grant Waller the same defalcations as before, on like security, in order that he may pass his accounts in the Exchequer. 17 Feb. 1656–7. [1½ pages.]
His Highness withdrew.
16. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Peter Blondeau 100l. for the charge of coining according to his new invention, and 100l. more when he shall enter on the work.
17. 2,000l. value of the Spanish money lately come from Portsmouth, for which Vyner and Backwell have contracted, to be given to Blondeau to coin, he giving security to Sir John Barkstead to redeliver it to the Exchequer when coined.
18. The petition of the Ladies Vere, Elizabeth, Anne, and Catherine, and Stanley Carr, Esq., children of the late Countess of Ancram, read.
21. The petition of John Fairfax, Oliver Williams, Rich. Rous, John Chapman, and others, concerning the Ballasting Office, to be sent to the Lord Mayor of London, to be considered against next Tuesday, when Council will also consider it, and Mr. Boreman and the Lord Mayor to have notice accordingly. [I. 77, pp. 724–730.]
Feb. 19.
Whitehall.		 125. The Protector to [the officers of Militia]. We hear that the Cavalier and Popish party are shortly intending a new insurrection, and that the late King's son, in conjunction with the Spaniard, intends an invasion with an army from Flanders, where he now is. For safety of the nation the forces must be put into a posture to prevent or repel these intentions. You are therefore to give notice to all the officers and soldiers of your troop to provide themselves with horses and arms, and be prepared, on the first notice of danger, to come to a rendezvous.
Be vigilant, lest you be surprised. If, you find any of the party riding armed, holding frequent meetings, or giving any cause of suspicion, you are to apprehend them. In case of insurrections or invasions, do your best to suppress them, and you will receive further directions from your Major-General, with whom we have spoken more at large. If you find any of that party keeping more horses than usual, seize their horses and arms, and keep them for the State. Assure your troop that care will be taken for their pay, according to the establishment. [12/3 pages, signed by the Protector].
Feb. 19/29.
Whitehall.		 [Sec. Thurloe to Amb. Lockhart.] There is no alteration of affairs here; we are alarmed by the malignant party, and are preparing against them all we can. [Extract. French correspondence.]
Feb. 19/29. 126. John Finch to Anne, Viscountess Conway, Kensington. The heavens and mankind have resolved to make me break my promise of writing you constantly, for I have had a flood of public business here, where I expected privacy. I must now make my servants deny access to all, that I may discourse with you: Would that I could return to the former happy converse! Tell me what you would have me write about, and what knowledge impart to you.
At Boshki, 30 miles from Smyrna, is an ancient Greek church, wherein are several images and pictures, a yard high and 2 inches thick, weighing 50 lbs. each. On St. George's day, if the priests do not take them down, they come down of their own accord, and go out of the church, and the priests go with them in procession. Now what is strange and yet true is, that if a Turk carry any of these pictures, he cannot let it fall from his head, but is terribly beaten, and is thrown into bushes and under the horses' feet, and the pictures rise up ½ a yard and fall down upon their heads, and beat them to the ground, so that the Turks reverence the pictures. Barnardiston and Hodges, 2 merchants here, thinking the Turks were imposing, made their janizaries, being Turks, carry the pictures last St. George's day, but they were so beaten, and yet only the pictures seen, that a Christian was forced to take them, for when a Christian touches them they are quiet. One began to beat Mr. Hodges, who was carrying it, and he was forced to call for some one to take it from him. Barnardiston is a sober gentleman. On their salvation they told me this. They will soon be in England.
At Jebell, 300 miles from Tripoli, is a whole province where, by petrifying blast or sand, all things are turned into stone, in the same postures they had when living. I have a piece of a camel's bone thence, and have ordered a body of man, woman, or child to be brought me. The Duke of Florence has a hen with all her chickens in stone, and all the colours of their feathers. One in Venice has a bough with apples on it, all the natural colours. [1 page.]
Feb. 20. 127. Petition of Sir And. Cogan to the King. I hear that the cause of your displeasure is that I arrested John Goulding, though you had forbidden him to be touched, and that I refused Sir John Mennes' bail. As to the first, I only heard you say that you did not sell your pardons, and when I asked you to order Goulding to pay me, you said he might do what he pleased with his own. I refused the bail as being contrary to the constitution of the land, nor did I think you would in the least have had to do with it, but if I had done ill in arresting him, you would have commanded me to withdraw the action, which I should have done immediately; for who can suppose that one who, like me, has disbursed and lost 34,000l. sterling for his loyalty, would fail of his duty to you to gain so small a sum ? I therefore beg you to pardon my offence, restore to me your favour, and order some one to determine the difference between me and Goulding. [1 page.]
Feb. 23./March 5.
Bruges.		 Blank Marshall to Sec. Thurloe. Last Monday, Charles Stuart and the Dukes of York and Gloucester came to Sluys to convoy the Princess Royal, but had a mischance from the fort of St. Anace, by the volley they gave him passing by, which hurt one of his footmen, and 2 of his gentlemen close by himself. The shot was aimed at himself at their entering into Sluys, and one was killed. They lodged there all night, Charles Stuart returned next morning, but the 2 Dukes went on the next day's journey. All 3 intended for Brussells last week, but were stopped for want of money, which they expect daily.
I see no appearance of what you mention in your letter. If you are prejudiced by my neglect, let me suffer, but I know as much as any of my quality here. If you will have your business well followed, send me more money; what you sent last I gave at once to my creditors, and I ought to be able to go with Charles Stuart, wherever he goes. Now or never is the time to take care of that business.
I find alterations of late, often Councils, and business done with great secrecy. Many lay wagers that we shall be in England in 6 weeks, but I see no appearance as yet; there is something which ere long must be known.
Middleton has not returned, and I do not believe he has done anything. Next week I go to Dunkirk and Ostend, for I must look after them and Holland. If any come that way where you are, I shall come myself, so that I would know by the next how to continue dealing with you.
In Holland they make great preparations, building 30 new ships, and rigging out all the old ones, but the design not known. The Spanish ambassador was better received in Amsterdam than the Prince of Orange has ever been. They gave him the command of the city the 3 days he abode there. At his return to the Hague, he made a ballet for the ladies and nobles, which cost him much. There are 2,000 men on foot in Denmark. I send an addition to my former note, for they are the people we must deal with; they are always busy with Charles Stuart, and will be the first merchants that will go. They and I will make a bargain ere long. [2 pages. Flanders correspondence.]
Feb. 23.
Whitehall.		 [Sec. Thurloe to Ambassador Lockhart.] To-day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. the House has been taken up with the debate anent the government, but little progress is made, beyond the reading of the remonstrance, carried by 144 against 54, and ordering that the debate be resumed to-morrow. The general scope of it was for King, and Houses of Lords and Commons; not hereditary rule, but the King to declare his successor, who is to be owned by Parliament. [Extract, French correspondence.]
Feb. 23.
London.		 Levant Company to Chas. Longland. On the desire of two Turks, Halil and Hamett, whose suit has been recommended to us by a master of requests to his Highness, to procure them accommodation of passage hence to their own country, we have moved Capt. Philips, commander of the Dover Merchant, and he has promised their transportation to Leghorn. If they have further occasion thence to Turkey or Barbary, we entreat you to befriend them therein, they intending no manner of charge to any, and wanting only direction and help for an opportunity of passage. [Levant Papers, Vol. 4, p. 285.]
Feb. 24. 128. Petition of Anne, wife of Jas. Nayler, to the Protector and Council. Though my husband, after all his extreme sufferings, needs refreshment for his recovery, he is cast into the Hole in Bridewell, where the damp strikes up his legs like water, and he wants air and fire. He is kept under 3 keys, in 3 several men's hands, and not allowed a candle, and I cannot see him unless 4 governors be present, nor may he have what I carry him. This is contrary to Parliament orders, and yours, for you allowed me to come to him, and expressly ordered him necessaries. His keepers are cruel, especially one Win, who refused him some conduit water, because there was a little sugar in it, and would not let him have a dish of turnips and other things I had taken him, to preserve his life.
To harden your hearts, they raise a false report, that he starves himself, and will not eat what is taken to him, but he only refuses what is too strong for his weak state. They have kept his condition from me, and now the doctor orders him milk, with sugar of roses.
If he is to continue in prison, I beg that he may have air, fire, and candle-light, and that I may attend him, and supply him with necessaries out of his own estate. But rather I beg his release, as he has suffered all the parts of your sentence, and is only prisoner during pleasure. [1 page.] Annexing,
128. i. Abstract of the above complaint. [½ page.]
Feb. 24. Order thereon that the governor of Bridewell suffer Jas. Nayler's wife to come to him, and see that he have necessaries, according to the order of Parliament. Approved in person. [I. 77, p. 733.]
Feb. 24. 129. Petition of Katherine, wife of Colonel Thomas Cholmley, to the Protector and Council. My former petition to his Highness showed that my wants and sufferings are great, my losses 1,000l., and my husband's debentures 1,521l. His Highness deducted 56l. due to him, and granted me 20l. a year on Little Salkeld Manor, Cumberland, for 99 years; but the Dean and Chapter Trustees could not lease, but only sell it, so I contracted for the purchase, and thus became debtor to the State 328l. 11s. 7d. I beg that this may be allowed me in lieu of the lease, and that the remainder of my debentures may be put into bonds. I am 240 miles from home, and spent 9 months last year and 3 months now in pursuance of the case. [1 page.] Annexing,
129. i. Certificate by Wm. Curwen and 5 other county commissioners of Cumberland, to the truth of Col. Cholmley's account prefixed for 1,521l. 3s. 4d. 6 seals and signatures. [1 sheet.]
Feb. 24. Order thereon in Council for a warrant for payment to her of 328l. 11s. 7d. without fees, to enable her to pay the Dean and Chapter Trustees, and that their treasurers pay the money at once into the Exchequer. Approved in person. [I. 77, pp. 733, 774.]
Feb. 24. 130. Petition of [Lieut.-Col.] Edm. Ashton to Council, to recall the order of 4 Nov., committing him to Newgate as a dangerous person, his Highness whom he petitioned having referred the case to them. Has been detained 32 weeks, is very poor, and cannot subsist longer; begs to give bond for his delinquency. [½ page.] Annexing,
130. i. Petition of Edm. Ashton to the Protector. Has been prisoner 28 weeks, and on applying at the Old Bailey sessions, was ordered to give in bail to Sir Lislebone Long, recorder, to appear next sessions, which the recorder will accept; but by Council's order of 4 Nov. last, he is to be detained. Has never been in arms since 1648, nor acted by plot or intelligence against the State. Wanted employment to France or Sweden, and has applied to several officers therefor. Begs release on bail. [1 page.]
Feb. 24. Order thereon that Mr. Jessop enquire into the business, and present his opinion next sitting. [I. 77, p. 735.]
Feb. 24. Council. Day's Proceedings.
(The orders marked thus * were approved in person.)
1. Order—on petition of the inhabitants of Moulton, co. Suffolk, shewing that the town consists of 70 families, and the profits of the vicarage there are but 20l., and praying an augmentation to Fras. Sylyard their minister—that the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers be advised to settle on him 40l. a year. Approved 3 March.
2, 3. Approval of augmentations by the said Trustees of 30l. to Jeremiah Hey, minister of Downham chapel, Whalley parish, co. Lancaster, and of 7l. 15s. 0d. to the minister of Blandford, co. Dorset. Approved by the Protector 3 March.
4. The Committee for Approbation of Public Preachers to examine Simon Potts, and if suitable, appoint him to the vacant ministry of Cowes, Isle of Wight. Approved 12 March.
His Highness present.
5.* Whereas Rich. Pinkard, Lieutenant of Major Blake's militia troop, who apprehended Wm. Lovell of Cardington, co. Northampton, on occasion of a riotous meeting there, has been apprehended by Lovell for false imprisonment, although done in a time of danger, and on a public account, and the case is to be tried at Northampton assizes—order that Lovell be sent for in custody by the Serjeant-atarms, and that Strickland and Jones speak with the judges about the business before they go out of town. With warrant for his commitment, 26 Feb. [I. 114, p. 65.]
6, 7. To advise his Highness to send Phil. Meadows as his envoy to the King of Denmark, with fit instructions, and the Lord Deputy, Jones, and Strickland, with Mr. Secretary, to consider what preparations are necessary for Meadows' journey to Denmark.
8. On petition of John Fairfax, Ol. Williams, and others claiming title to the Ballasting Office under a lease of 31 years by the late King, in the 12th year of his reign, which was opened by Mr. Recorder before his Highness and Council, and on consultation with the Lord Mayor, Sir Lislebone Long, and several aldermen who attended:—order that the petitioners seek their remedy at law.
9. The Attorney and Solictor-General to hear what can be said by George Boreman as to the legality of granting a patent which he requests of the Ballasting Office, and also to hear counsel for the city of London, the Lord Mayor and corporation pleading that Boreman's proposals are against law, violate the city's jurisdiction in the conservancy of the Thames, and will damage the river by instruments for taking up ballast with nets and hoops, and prejudice navigation and fishing. They are also to consider the validity of the patent by which Mr. Jessop claims the said office.
His Highness withdrew.
12. On a certificate from Sir John Berkstead on Council's reference of 10 Feb. that Major Hen. Norwood has been a prisoner in the Tower from 5 Jan. 1654–5, and Capt. Rich. Dutton from 23 May 1655, whereby they are so impoverished that since Jan. 1655–6, they have had to depend on the credit of such as would trust them, and have accordingly been a burden for their lodging and maintenance to John Wale, a warder, to whom Norwood owes 26l. 11s. 0d., and Dutton 32l. 16s. 0d.—order that Frost pay Wale 59l. 7s. 0d., and that Sir John Barkstead report what allowance should be made to the prisoners in future. Approved 12 March.
14. Order—on a report on the arrears of money due by the late Customs' Commissioners [see 26 Jan. 1657], and on consideration of the papers given in by Sir C. Pack, Lloyd, and Boothby, and also by Ald. Avery—that the former be admitted to give in their particular accounts, and be not involved in Avery's account. Approved 12 March. Annexing,
131. Report alluded to, 12 Feb. 1656–7. [2/3 page.]
131. i. Answers of Sam. Avery to the statements of Pack, Lloyd, and Boothby. Prays a hearing of his former papers, having suffered imprisonment, and oppression, and loss of liberty, to his utter ruin. Arguments in favour of the requiring joint accounts. Hopes neither the miscarriage of his son nor that of any other will be imputed to him, and begs release. Repetition of his former arguments. [1 sheet; see 26 Aug. 1656.]
132, 133. 15. The Admiralty Commissioners being ordered on Feb. 17 to issue warrants for fitting, manning, and furnishing the summer's guard, according to a list annexed—order empowering them to change any of the vessels then fixed upon, provided the number of men in the list be not exceeded without special order, and the proportions of ships and men, as to quality and number, be observed as far as may be. Approved 12 March. [I. 77, pp. 731–5.]
Feb. 24. 134. Examination of Rose, wife of Julius Wildes. At 9 a.m., 28 Jan. last, a Dunkirk sloop landed 14 men at Dungeness Light, who forcibly entered her house with drawn swords, and under threats of killing her and her children, carried away all that she had, worth 50l., to the utter undoing of her husband and 7 small children. [½ page.]
Feb. 25./March 7.
Paris.		 135. G. Stradling to Williamson. I cannot repay your courtesy with words, which are esteemed here "la monnaie des Cordeliers," yet I have little else to requite you. I am soon leaving, and hope to see you this summer in Italy. The plague has left Florence, and I shall stay there till God gives a free passage to Rome. Private business. I can find no books worth your reading. Account of Scudamore's misconduct. [1 page.]
Feb. 26. [Sec. Thurloe to Ambassador Lockhart.] Last Monday Sir Chris. Pack, M.P. for London, brought into Parliament a remonstrance, desiring his Highness, in the name of Parliament, to assume the kingly dignity, and to call a Parliament consisting of two Houses, with many other things referring to a settlement. It was received in Parliament with very great applause by most, yet much opposed by some. The first question was whether it should be read, and after some hours' debate, it was carried to be read, by 144 against 54. Next day it was read, and on Saturday we shall go upon the debate, tomorrow being appointed for a day of prayer and fasting, to seek directions from the Lord.
His Highness hears that Lord Falconbridge is at Paris, and wishes you to notice him as one whom his Highness much respects; he is an able gentleman, and can give you a good account of the disposition of Yorkshire, his county. [1 page. French correspondence.]
Feb. 28./March 10.
Ghent.		 John Somer to [Sec. Thurloe.] I have been to Zealand to borrow money, for you seem to have forgotten me.
At Middleburg I saw Col. Hollis, commander of the English under Ormond. Lord Wilmot was there, buying 1,000 muskets and arms of defence. At Flushing were many officers who have resigned service under the United Provinces to attend Charles Stuart, who is in such want of money that he cannot pay his soldiers, and many of them are disbanding.
The Princess of Orange is gone for the Hague, her brother, Charles Stuart, convoyed her to Sluys. As they passed the Spanish port, the volley of shot killed one of his followers, very near to himself, and at Sluys another was killed in like manner, at which ominous accident he was somewhat astonished. [¾ page. Flanders correspondence.]
[Feb.] Relation by Sir Rob. Welsh of his carriage in England. Being prisoner in the Bastile, the governor told me that there was a way for my release, if I would run the hazard of it. I told him I would do anything that a man of honour might undertake. He asked if I would destroy him that had destroyed my religion, King, and country, viz., Cromwell, and I might have money and liberty, if I would undertake it with one whom I knew well; but as no army was to go, I refused to have anything to do with murder.
Being a prisoner without friends, I tried to ingratiate myself with Cromwell, by informing him of the design, but he never owned hearing of it from me.
However when I left the Bastile, I made this a pretext to get a footing in England, and wrote from Rouen to the Marquis of Ormond that I was going into England, and would do all I could to further his Majesty's interest, but would not meddle unless he would be surety to the King for my loyalty; this he became, and assured me that my going should not be the least prejudice to me.
I went last February, to try and ingratiate myself with the State there, in order better to serve my King. I wrote to Thurloe of my arrival, telling him that I had no pass, nor agreement with them, but begging that, on my submission to the present government, he would let me live in the country, or make me leave it. Not hearing from him, I ventured to London, and at last got to speak with him, begging leave to live here, without intermeddling with State affairs. We talked much of France, Spain, &c., and I thought I stood well with him, but in a few days I found him very cool, as Cardinal Mazarin had given me a very ill character, and Sir Kenelm Digby had inveighed against me as not to be trusted.
I saw him once again with difficulty, and he asked me how I stood at Bruges. I said very ill, for that the King had banished me his dominions, and in 7 years, I had not the least correspondence with any in his Court. He said—"Then you cannot serve us, for we must be served by those who have power and interest there." I said that now, being permitted to live in England, I thought I could through a friend, the Marquis of Ormond, ingratiate myself at Court. He bade me write to the Marquis, and show him the reply, but I could not get another interview, and though promised that I should live quietly in England, I was sent to the Tower. (fn. 2)
Three months after Lord Broghill came to me to the Tower, and asked if I did not repent not serving Parliament as he would have had me. I told him my eyes were better opened now, and I thought I might serve them. He then promised to do wonders for me, if I would give him particulars of a design for killing the Protector. I told him I believed that there was none, but that the informer wrote of it for the sake of drawing his pension. He asked if I could live in the King's court, tell him the truth of this, and give him intelligence, and if so, I should have my liberty. I promised, and in 2 days he brought me my discharge, and told the design to the Lieutenant of the Tower. Lord Broghill then summoned me to his house for the next night, and we were in private contriving a cypher, when one Owen arrived, with whom he stayed ¾ of an hour in another room, and then told me he could give me a perfect account of all in Bruges; that his intelligencer had arrived, and told him the King had 800 officers and 600 soldiers, &c.
Next morning he pulled out a letter which he said was from the third person about the King, saying they needed not apprehend so much, and that the King said some Scots designed for the King of Sweden's service had landed at Dunkirk. He wished me to go at once, but I told him I must have money. He gave me 50l., which I said was too little. He told me it came from his own purse, for he durst not demand money from the State, as he had with difficulty prevailed with Council that I should be the man employed, there being then in the Tower those who had formerly shown affection to the State. Every day I told Lady Ormond and her son what had passed. I also wrote to B. to tell Lord Ormond that I hoped soon to be in condition to discharge my trust.
I then undertook my journey, and went on board at Gravesend, but the wind being contrary, I went to Dover, there to take the packet for Dunkirk, having the Secretary of State's pass. By the way, I was taken at Canterbury, by the warden of the Fleet's warrant, and brought to the Fleet. I applied to Lord Broghill, and send you his answer, as also a copy of his letter to the Lieutenant of the Tower on my behalf, and of the answer thereto.
Being in the Fleet, an old acquaintance of quality applied to me, and promised to sevre me if I would deal clearly with him. He told me he knew I was employed by the State, and would recommend me to his friend, the third person about the King, who sent all material intelligence weekly; and that if I would give him the name of the friend I relied most on with the King, he would give me the name of his friend. I named mine, and he named his, with circumstances to prove the truth.
I thought it no small service to show the King what he was, and had done so but my application was rejected. I told the Marquis of Ormond what power I had, but only named the third or fourth person to the King, being loth to name him till I saw what reception I had; but I offered to name him in a few days, and to prove that if the King showed him any letter of concern, and left it in his hands, a copy would be sent to the State, and I would surprize it on the way.
Sir John Barkstead believed me so much his that he told me that for many years he has had, and still has, the opening of all letters from the Queen of England sent to London, and those sent from London to her, but he sealed them all up again to avoid discovery, and he told me who showed him these letters.
I was also charged with an offer to the Prince of Condé of 1,000 or 1,500 men, not to cost him 1s. till landed in Flanders, and then no assurance of payment but his capitulation.
I was also empowered by a very sufficient person to assure the King that he could contrive to bring with him to Flanders 5 or 6 men of mighty estates, who have always been against his Majesty, and would soon ransom themselves at 100,000l.
I named these things to his Excellency at Ghent, as the reason why I believed myself capable of serving the King. He told me I should hear his Majesty's pleasure in 3 or 4 days, which is that he will not make use of my service, but advises me to get out of these countries, or prepare for the consequences. There is nothing I wish more than to clear myself as a loyal and true subject, and this is not the reception I expected for my hazards. Endorsed, "A copy of Sir Rob. Welsh's relation of his carriage in England, delivered to the Lady Abbess of Ghent." Signed by Nicholas. [4 pages. Flanders correspondence.]
Feb. Sir Rob. Welsh to the King. To the same effect as the above, with slight variations. I have studied to serve you 7 or 8 years, and thought to do it by getting credit with Cromwell, or that wicked State that governs your kingdoms. I went to England by Rouen and Dieppe, landed at Rye without pass, and wrote to Thurloe offering service. I fell sick at Rye and stayed 4 or 5 days, and thence to London. I was there a month, and being unable to get access to Thurloe, I wrote to Fleetwood, deputy of Ireland, offering service. He received me very civilly, and sent a gentleman with me to Whitehall to Thurloe, who said he would acquaint Cromwell with my good wishes. He bade me come again, and I thought I had gained something on his rigid humour. I saw him again in 2 or 3 days, and told him if I was under any suspicion, I would leave the country and seek my fortune elsewhere, but he bade me stay. We spoke of the breach between France and Spain, and he asked me if I would take service. I said not against Spain, because having formerly served you, I should be suspected as an intelligencer, but that as matter of conscience, I might very well serve against you, as it was not for me to examine whom God has ordained to possess these kingdoms—"expressions, God knows, far from my meaning or thoughts."
On another interview I gave him good intelligence from France of what was resolved on by the Cardinal. A week after I told him I had thought on a business never asked by any, and not intrenching on the subject's purses, but worth 1,000l. or 2,000l. a year. He bade me name it, and told me I should have it. I will tell you what it is when you command me, "but he kept his word as they do, and ever will do in all things." I wrote several times afterwards, but could never see him.
I still lived in the town, when 2 or 3 months after, Sir John Barkstead wrote me to come to him to the Tower. I went to Thurloe, but could not see him, so I went with a friend to Barkstead; he was civil, took my address, and made me promise not to leave town or change my lodgings without informing him. A fortnight after he sent 10 soldiers to my lodgings in Mark Lane, who at 6 a.m. carried me out of my bed to the Tower. I waited till 11 before I could speak to him; he then asked if I knew anything of a plot, and on giving my word that I did not, he set me at liberty. Ten days after he sent soldiers to my lodging; I wrote him that I would wait on him on notice, so he sent for me, and showed me Council's warrant to make me prisoner in the Tower, and told me he had provided me a good lodging, with my Lord of Canterbury, Lord Capel, and the ambassador of Portugal's brother. There I lay 4 months, and then wrote to Thurloe, but had no reply, and there I had lain till Doomsday, but for Lord Broghill. My progress with him you will have heard. If my credit had been kept by keeping intelligence with him, I should have written only what you or your minister would set down, for I have shown him my cypher with Lord Broghill. What I intended was that when you should have an army in any of your dominions, I would once or twice give them intelligence that should enable them to cut off 200 or 300 of your horse, and then, when they thought me true, give them such intelligence as would absolutely ruin them.
Then I grew so intimate with Lord Broghill that I gained much information by him to be given to you, and if I had kept credit with him, as by your order, telling him things that may not much prejudice you, I had returned to England, gained credit with Cromwell, and then been able so to serve you as it would be difficult to any to find the like.
If the King of Spain would give me all Flanders, I would not appear in England, yet no danger should prevent my obeying your orders. I could name the 5 or 6 persons, whom I offered to bring from England without costing a penny, who should yield 100,000l., but I was told on proposing it that you also had friends in England. I could not bring Cromwell's head in a bag with me, but if I could, I would. I should not have had, as my reward for wishing to serve you, a common gaol, and such usage as the highest criminal could not have worse. My son, who might have made himself a fortune, must partake my unjust ignominy. If you find the least guilt in either of us, let us suffer; if not, I beg justice and reparation. As I cannot serve you, if I clear myself of this ignominy, I beg your pass to some foreign service, though but in very ill equipage. If you knew the calumny I lie under in England, you would not consider me an ill subject. I was so ashamed of myself in England that I went one night to lodge with Col. Wm. Bourke, now here. Being in bed, I said, "Will, you are very ill spoken of as to be a betrayer of the Cavaliers to the State, which I do not at all believe; and to show you that I do not, I will show you my Lord of Ormond's letter to me, to give me freedom of being here, and to do as shall best seem to me. You know I am censured by all the Cavalier party, because I frequent Whitehall. They know not themselves for what particular to censure me, yet you see, for my duty to my King, what I suffer, and allow myself to pass for a knave. I know that there be 20 base letters writ of me, but when I know myself clear, I care not a straw what people say, and so consequently I guess the same by you." Col. Bourke saw my Lord's letter, and said it was his hand. Endorsed, "A copy of Sir Rob. Welsh's relation of his carriage in England, sent to his Majesty by him, through the hands of the Earl of Rochester." [Copy signed by Nicholas, 4 pages. Flanders correspondence.]
Feb. Queries by Nicholas to be asked on the preceding relation:—
What was the design proposed by Lord Broghill to Welsh, and by him undertaken to be performed, wherewith the Lieutenant of the Tower was to be acquainted, and for doing whereof he had his liberty ?
Who is that third person about the King mentioned ?
Who is the B. to whom Sir Robert says he wrote ?
Who is the gentleman of quality and parts that applied to him, and who is that third person about the King that he named to Sir Robert as sending weekly intelligence to the State, and what were the circumstances that showed that he spoke the truth ?
Who is the person that let Barkstead see the letters to and from the Queen ?
Who gave Sir Robert power to offer the Prince of Condé 1,000 or 1,500 men to be landed in Flanders without any charge to him?
Who gave Sir Robert power to assure the King that he could bring 5 or 6 men into Flanders that would give 100,000l. for ransom? [2/3 page, corrected draft. Flanders correspondence.]
Feb ? 136. Edw. Norris to Williamson. I have been idle, but forgive me. Imagine the regret in the loss of a thing as precious as the discourse of an angel. [1 page. French.]

Footnotes

  • 1. The references on this and the following petitions have been counterchanged.—Ed.
  • 2. The date of his seizure was 7 March 1655–6.—Ed.
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