Volume 156: August 1657

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1657-8. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1884.

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'Volume 156: August 1657', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1657-8, (London, 1884) pp. 48-86. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1657-8/pp48-86 [accessed 26 March 2024]

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August 1657

Aug. 3.
Plymouth.
1. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to the Admiralty Commissioners. Details of the repairs and refitting of the Mayflower and other ships.
The Gainsborough has brought in a small vessel of Minehead, of 3 guns, which had been taken by Brett, an Irishman, off Milford, who was sending her for Passage. She was retaken between Scilly and Ushant, and her former master, 2 of his company, and 5 of the pirates were in her. Brett has taken 7 vessels, 6 of which he sold to the masters again, and one, laden with corn, he sent for Spain.
P.S. I am informed by Barth. Taylor, late master of a ship of London, who was taken 5 weeks since by a Dunkirk man-of war when coming from Lisbon with sugar, and carried into Passage, which man-of-war was formally commanded by one Snip and now by Copeman—the former having gone to the Groyne to fit out a manof-war from thence—that when he came from Passage on his parole, 3 weeks since, there were the following frigates fitting out there, viz: Copeman in one of 36 guns, Swart in one of 22, Beach in one of 13, and Spragg in one of 12, besides two smaller; and at St. Sebastian's a new frigate of 20, another of 10, another of 8, and 2 of 12 guns each, and that all, or the most part of these, are now at sea.
I suppose the greater part of these may ply off the Northern Cape, and the rest in the Soundings, mouth of the Channel, and coasts of Ireland and France, and therefore I could wish there were some more frigates to the westward, to secure trade and look after these men-of-war. [3 pages.]
Aug. 4. 2. Petition of Sutton Oglethorpe, of Eskrigg, co. York, and of Frances, his wife, to the Protector. Our son Sutton, then 16 years old, went in March 1654 without leave with a servant, Geo. Blith, to a meeting at Hessam Moor, co. York, for which he was many weeks in York Castle, many weeks in Hull Castle, and in May 1656, they were both banished the 3 nations.
We are in great sorrow for want of our son, our only comfort, and are likely to be damaged on account of a sale of entailed lands, conveyed to Hen. Fairfax, of Bolton Percy in 1651, under heavy bonds that our eldest son, when he came of age, should seal the deed. We beg that he and his servant may be pardoned, and allowed to return and live peaceably at home. [1 sheet.]
Aug. 4. Order thereon that the son be permitted to return, if Thurloe see no reason to the contrary, on bond to attempt nothing against the present government. Approved 4 August. [I. 78, p. 47.]
Aug. 4. 3. Petition of Fras. Lewis to the Protector. After being many years minister of Brigstock, co. Northampton, I was sequestered 16 Aug. last by the Commissioners for ejecting scandalous and insufficient Ministers. I beg either that you would allow me to preach the Gospel, whereto I am called, or refer my case to the Major-General of the county, I promising obedience to the present government. With reference 20 May 1656 to the Major-General and Commissioners for securing the peace of the county, to inquire into his condition and conversation, and if there be no cause to the contrary, to stay proceedings against him till further order. [1 page.]
[Aug. 4.] 4. Petition renewed, on their report that he should have liberty to preach. With reference to Privy Council, 17 June 1657. [1 page.]
[Aug. 4.] 5. Petition of Fras. Lewis to the Protector and Privy Council, for a further order to preach, being presented to a benefice, and approved by the Committee for Preachers, but his admission suspended for an order. [1 page.]
Aug. 4. Order on this petition, and on a certificate from Maj.-Gen. Boteler, John Browne, and Rob. Gay,— that he was ejected in 1655 on articles of scandal, but has since given good testimony of godliness and reformation,— that he be allowed to minister in any other place, being approved by the Committee for Approbation of Preachers. Approved 14 August. [I. 78, p. 54.]
Aug. 4. Council. Day's Proceedings.
His Highness present.
[The orders marked thus * were approved in person.]
1. The petition of the ministers, elders, and deacons of the French congregation in London referred to the Committee appointed 23 July last on the differences about the church, to report.
2.* On complaint of interruption given to John Simpson, Mr. Crofton, the incumbent, and the churchwardens of Aldgate are enjoined to obey the order in Council of 10 Feb. 1656—7, permitting him to lecture there on Lord's Day afternoon and one week day, and they are to assist him therein.
3.* To recommend the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle an augmentation of 100l. a year on John Shaw, pastor at Kingston-upon-Hull.
4. Lord Deputy, Mulgrave, Pickering, Rous, Skippon, Strickland, Desborow, Mr. Secretary, and Sydenham to consider persons fit to be added to the Committee for ejecting scandalous Ministers in the several counties and cities of the nation, and present them to Council.
5. The above Committee to summon Mr. Crafton, minister of Aldgate, and examine him about his contempt of his Highness's order concerning John Simpson's preaching at Aldgate, and to report.
6. A letter to be prepared from his Highness and Council, empowering the Committee for ejecting scandalous Ministers to execute the Ordinance thereon effectually and speedily.
7. The petition of the master, wardens, and company of Vintners of London and Westminster read and debated, and the petitioners called in; but as they pray his Highness's dispensation to sell until January next their present stores of wine at the usual rate, notwithstanding an Act of Parliament which was positive against it, Mr. Scobell must tell them that Council do not think fit to offer any advice to his Highness thereon.
8. The petition of Col. Geo. Crompton, for supply of ammunition and stores for his Highness's garrison of West Tilbury, in Essex, referred to Desborow, Skippon, Sydenham, and Lord Deputy, to report.
10. Order on report on the petition of Joanna Scott [see 20 Jan. 1656–7], that 20l. a year be paid her for life, and that a warrant be issued accordingly. Annexing,
6. Report alluded to by the Treasury Commissioners, that on 16 April 1652, 500l. a year was allowed to Barth. Beale and Wm. Scott, petitioner's husband, as auditors of imprest for themselves, clerks, and charges for 3 years; that the office was granted 28 Nov. 1656 to Abr. Barrington; that the last payment to Scott was for the quarter ending 24 June 1655, but he did the work till Sept. 1656, when she pleads that 625l. was due to him, but Scott had no appointment to the office beyond the three years. 1 May 1657. [1 page.]
11. Rous added to the Committee on Sir Job Harby's petition.
12. The Serjeant-at-arms to receive into his custody Wm. Astley and Charles Gifford, who having received commissions from the late King of Scotland for raising forces here, are now imprisoned at Shrewsbury Castle; the Lord Deputy of Ireland is to appoint a party of horse to guard them to London, and they are to be brought before Council, to be disposed of according to justice.
13. Like order concerning Mr. Allison.
15. 400l. to be advanced to Maj.-Gen. Wm. Jephson, for the service of envoy extraordinary to the King of Sweden, to which he is appointed.
16. Desborow, Strickland, Mulgrave, Pickering, Mr. Secretary, and Sydenham to consider what further allowance should be made Jephson for the above service, and report.
17. Towards the 400l. ordered to Jephson, Desborow is to pay him the 360l. remaining in his hands for money received by him as Major General of Fairfax's regiment, and Lord Deputy, Strickland, Mr. Secretary, Sydenham, Mulgrave, and Pickering to receive Desborow's accounts, and see how best he may be discharged of the moneys he received as aforesaid.
18. Whereas by contract with Sir John Reynolds, Major Rob. Cobbett was to provide 6,000 red cloth coats at 9s. each for his soldiers, and 4 grey coats for the Marshal-General's men, at 5l. each, total cost 2,720l., which are certified to be delivered,— order to advise a warrant for their payment, after the 3,000l. ordered to Col. John Carter.
19. Council being informed by John Maidstone that the expenses of his Highness's household have exceeded the allowance of 12,000l. a quarter, for payment of ½ of which he has had privy seals for 4,000l. and 2,000l.,—order to advise a warrant for payment of the other 6,000l. as soon as the other warrants are satisfied.
20. On report on the petition of Sheffield Stubbs [see 10 Feb. 1656–7],—that in Aug. 1651, Sir Rich. Mauleverer and 2 others became bound to Stubbs in 100l. for payment 17 Feb. 1651–2 of 52l., and in Easter 1652, Stubbs obtained a judgment against Mauleverer for 100l. debt and 2l. damages,— that Sir Thos. Mauleverer, father of Sir Richard, dying, it was found by inquisition 6 Sept. 1655, that Richard, at the time of the judgment, held Allerton Mauleverer manor, &c., value 250l. a year, till the debt, with interest and charges, being 82l. 16s. 0d., was paid:—Order that Stubbs be left to recover his debt by law. Approved 14 August. Annexing,
7. Report by the Treasury Commissioners alluded to, giving fuller details and depositions in the case. 2 June 1657. [2 pages.]
21. On Mr. Secretary's informing Council of the state of the citadel of Leith in Scotland, now building, and Gen. Monk's proposal for defraying the charge and finishing it, since a good deal of money has already been spent on it, and Monk has lent Col. Timothy Wilkes 3,000l. out of Army contingencies for it, and still more money is necessary—Order, that the said 3,000l. as lent by Monk be considered as towards the citadel, and that he be not chargeable with it, and that all Excise money on ale or beer brewed in Edinburgh and Leith be applied to the above purpose till 24 June 1658, the Council in Scotland to take notice thereof. Approved 6 August.
22. The Council also to enquire what sums have been received on the orders of 23 March 1653–4, for an imposition of 4d. Scots per pint on ale and beer consumed in Edinburgh, to go to the debts of the Corporation, and how they have been applied, and a letter to be speedily written them to that effect. Approved 6 August.
23. 8. The Ordnance officers of the Tower to deliver from the public stores 10 tons of match to Col. Tim. Wilkes, for use of the forces in Scotland. Approved 6 August.
His Highness present.
25.* On certificate from Colonels Bright, Bethel, Lassells, and Lieut.-Col. Elton, who were ordered 19 March last to view the decay of Hull garrison, of the fort and works about Kingston uponHull garrison, with the charges thereof and of the blockhouses, amounting to 5,051l. 10s.,—order that the Army Committee pay Wm. Malyn, his Highness's secretary, 1,000l. for Army contingencies on account, for repair of the above, and he is to pay it to whoever is appointed to undertake the repairs.
26.* The Lord-Deputy, Sydenham, Mulgrave, Desborow, Strickland, and Mr. Secretary to consider a fit person to be employed in repairs of Hull garrison, and prepare instructions for him.
27.* Approval of an order of the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, granting Dr. Sam. Annesley 120l. a year for preaching a lecture on the Lord's Day afternoon in St. Paul's Cathedral.
28. Sec. Thurloe and Col. Sydenham added to the Committee on Mr. Blondeau's business.
29. The petition of Fras. Thompson referred to Wolsley, Jones, Desborow, Sydenham, Strickland, and Thurloe, to treat with him how the park mentioned may be repurchased for the State's use, and how he may be satisfied, and report.
30. Order—on report from Lord-Commissioner Widdrington, Rich. Lucy, and John Hildsley, the 3 referees on several petitions concerning the estate of Wm. Toones, a felon of himself—that Pickering, Desborow, Sydenham, Mr. Secretary, and Strickland consider the report, hear all claimants on the estate, and especially notice the Earl of Mulgrave's case, and report.
31.* Order that Col. Daniel, who in Maj.-Gen. Morgan's absence executed the functions of Major General of the Forces in Scotland, have 6s. a day allowed him for the time that he held the place; Gen. Monk to take order accordingly, and add the same to the establishment.
32. To advise his Highness to send Philip Meadows as his envoy to the King of Denmark.
33. Approval by the Protector of 27 orders, 21 July to 4 August. [I. 78, p. 45–59.]
Aug. 4. 9. Gen. Jno. Desborow and Secretary Jo. Thurloe to the Admiralty Commissioners, Being engaged to see Capt. Luddington, paid 1,000l. for some things he lately bought by his Highness's order, we earnestly desire you to direct your Treasurer to pay it him this week; we will take care to have it repaid with speed, and hope it will be within 10 days or a fortnight. [1 page.]
Aug. 4.
York.
10. Maj.-Gen. Rob. Lilburne to the Admiralty Commissioners. I send Cornet Merry's account for the keep of the Dunkirk prisoners, which I believe to be correct. He was glad to borrow 40l., which will all be disbursed on Thursday, so I hope you will not only pay the 50l. formerly mentioned, but be mindful of a further supply. If not, I do not perceive that anyone is free to engage further to supply them unless the money is deposited in safe hands for them.
As my regiment has orders to march for Scotland, I hope you will also take care that some soldiers are appointed for a guard over them as they are ever and anon getting away, and the gaoler has been at a charge of 7l. in hiring men to watch them; there is so much trouble about them, and so little help and conveniency to secure them, that unless we have some foot to assist, I intend to meddle no more with them, nor will the gaoler receive any hereafter, without some special order from above. [1 page.]
Aug. 4.
Hull.
11. Lieut.-Col. Elton to the Admiralty Commissioners. There are yet at Ostend 3 prisoners—Wm. Crane, Jno. Day, and Jas. Elliker— who belonged to Jno. Hide, master of a ship of Hull, for whose release, as also for that of 7 of his men, you formerly wrote the Admiralty Judges of Ostend and Dunkirk, and obtained it. I am continually importuned by the wives of these 3 to write you to release Nicholas and Jno. Clayson and Wm. Bouger, Dunkirkers and common seamen, from York prison, and send them over, when the judges there have promised to release their husbands in exchange. They are so eager and so importunate with me, through their abundant tears, that they weary me out, so I entreat an order for the release of these 3 Dunkirkers from the prison at York.
The Princess Mary and the Half Moon called for the Eastland ships, but they had gone some days, and the 2 frigates sailed to-day. I accommodated them with two pilots for the north. [1 page.]
Aug. 6. 12. Petition of Major John Grove, on behalf of Col. Fras. Hacker's horse regiment in Scotland, to the Protector. On 18 August 1656, the Treasurers-at-war gave me an acquittance for 825l. 12s. 9d. to deliver to Wm. Jukes, receiver-general of monthly assessments, co. Salop, on his paying that sum to Col. Hacker, being part of the month's pay due to his regiment on 26 May 1656, but Jukes failed to pay this sum and other sums to Majors-General Whalley and Bury. For so doing, the county commissioners of assessments committed him and two of his securities to prison, and have sold most of his estate, and paid the Majors-General, but not me, pretending they have not money enough, and questioning their power to reassess by virtue of the old Act. This much prejudices the regiment, and me who am engaged in several sums on their behalf.
I beg an order for their payment from co. Notts or Leicester, or from Guildhall; also an order to the Salop Commissioners to exercise the powers given them in the Act of 24 November 1653, and in the Ordinance of 27 November 1655, for bringing in the arrears from the county for the time before the commencement of this Parliament's Acts; the Treasurers-at-war to assign the same to such troops as can best attend the business. [1 page.]
Aug. 6. 13. Reference thereon by Council to the Army Committee, to report. [½ page; also I. 78, p. 59.]
Aug. 6. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Col. Phil. Jones took the oath of a Counsellor before LordPresident and Desborow.
2. Order on a report from the Admiralty Commissioners that the provisions for next year's fleet should be declared for, as the season for providing approaches, and advantage should be taken of the next 2 months for contracting, and therefore they request to know what numbers of men will be employed, and what quantities of provisions should be prepared—that Desborow, Sydenham, Mr. Secretary, Jones, Pickering, and Strickland attend his Highness with this report. Annexing,
14. Report alluded to. 5 August 1657. [¾ page.]
4. The petition of Jochim Potter, one of the Swedish Commissaries here, referred by his Highness to Council,—shewing that the Johnsburgh, belonging to the Swedish Company of Africa, and bound from Guinea to Sweden, has, on news of the Danish war with Sweden, put into Dover, and praying, considering the danger she would be in should she proceed, for leave to sell her lading here, viz., 108 cwt. of elephants' teeth and 300 marks of gold:—referred to Mr. Secretary, Strickland, Pickering, Desborow, Lord-Deputy, and Jones, to consult with some civilians whether it would involve any breach of the Act of Navigation, and report.
6. Order on report from the Committee of Council on Francis Lord Willoughby's petition, that Sir John Berkstead, on order from the Committee, allow the petitioner to attend as they shall order, to receive satisfaction in the matter prayed, and appoint a fit person to escort him to and fro.
His Highness present.
8. On request for some alterations in the order of 28 July last about Vincent Gooking, the order confirmed.
9. The petition of Hector Morgan, concerning his office as searcher of Sandwich, Kent, and its members, referred to Majors-General Whalley and Goffe, Colonels Fras. White and Mills, and Lieut.Col. Lagoe, to enquire into, and report.
10. A petition presented by Viscount Montague and Lord Baltimore referred to the Treasuary Commissioners, to report.
11. Scobell and Jessop to consider the petition and account of Thos. Simons, chief graver of the Mint, for public work done and disbursements made, and report.
12. The petition of Sudbury, co. Suffolk, for renewal of their charter, referred to Lord-Deputy, Jones, Desborow, and Strickland, to consider the former charter, and report.
15. Order,—on report from the Committee on a paper signed by the Governor of Guernsey, containing several matters referring to the island,—that for better observation of the Lord's Day there, any persons convicted of riding for pleasure or unnecessary business, repairing to taverns, sharing the proceeds of the fish taken the week before, fowling, collecting bait, &c., on that day, be fined 5s.; and when so convicted, they may be arrested without warrant, and brought before the authorities, unless they will pay the fine peaceably, which fine is to be given to the poor of the parish wherein the offence is committed; but the authorities may reward the prosecutor up to ⅓ of the sum. Approved in person.
16. Also that for the better observation of decorum in the Court of Justice in Guernsey, the Clerk of the Court read the actions depending there; and that none who are not magistrates presume to be covered within the bar, or sit on the seat of justice, so that the magistrates may better be distinguished from private persons.
17. When any causes shall be referred from Monday to Saturday, in order to a decision thereof by a greater number of justices, the bailiff and jurates are to meet on such Saturdays by 11 a.m., that the time of the early comers be not wasted, nor the opportunity of dispatching causes lost.
18. The request for 12 barrels of powder to be sent over, and some muskets for the poorer sort, who can handle arms, though they cannot buy them, left to the Governor, Colonel Bingham, to do as he finds best for his Highness's service and the island's safety.
20. On petition from the Governor and Company of Levant Merchants, that their ship, the Resolution, laden with 30,000l. worth of merchandise, has been taken by Tripoli men-of-war, and carried to Rhodes, contrary to the articles of treaty between the two States;— Order to advise his Highness to write to the Grand Seignior and Vizier Bassa, for release of the said ship.
21. His Highness imparted another petition from the said merchants, that several Spanish ships have gone towards the Straits to intercept our merchant ships, and that 2 English ships have been set upon, and one sunk, and begging protection for the trade, but was reminded that directions had already been given in that behalf.
His Highness withdrew.
22. On Mr. Secretary's report from the Committee on an order of August 4, to take General John Desborow's account for money received by him, and consider how he may be discharged therefrom; that as it appears that he received, as Major General of Fairfax's regiment of horse and for disbanding supernumeraries, from 26 January 1647–8 to 7 May 1648, 13,991l. 8s. 0d. in 9 sums specified, and that he paid the troops 13,849l. 0s. 0d. in 6 sums, leaving 142l. 8s. 0d due to the State on his account, which, with 254l. 11s. 0d. owed by him on another account, makes 396l. 19s. 0d. and that his accounts were not passed by the Army Committee before, because he paid away certain sums to officers in the Lord-General's regiment, beyond what was in their muster, which they ought to repay:—Order that on Desborow's payment of the 396l. 11s. 0d., he receive full and formal discharge for all the sums he has had in his charge. Approved.
23. Order that Desborow pay the 396l. 19s. to Mr. Jessop, who is to give it to Maj.-Gen. Jephson towards the 400l. ordered for his service as envoy to the King of Sweden. Approved 6 August.
24. Approval by the Protector of 8 orders. 4 and 6 August.
25. All petitions now depending to be referred to any 2 or more members of Council, to report on and dispatch them. [I. 78, p. 58–69.]
Aug. 6.
Little Dean.
15. Major Jo. Wade to the Admiralty Commissioners. Conceiving that you intend sending for more timber, I would acquaint you that those you have contracted with do not come with their ships into our river, where the timber lies on the shore, but stay in Hunger Road, and send trows up the Severn to Lydney Pill, where the timber is put at the water side, and costs them 5s. or 6s. a ton for fetching it down to their ships, and besides that, they stay 3 spring tides for its coming down, which is not less than 6 weeks, so that stands them in little less than 5s. a ton more.
If when you make any further contracts with the owners of the ships for fetching the timber, you would deliver it at Sherehampton, adjoining Hunger Road, they cannot refuse abating a considerable sum. The carrying of it down to Hunger Road will cost the State but little, as considering the trouble and charge formerly experienced in hiring boats to carry pig and bar iron up and down the Severn, I had the boldness to cause Mr. Furzer to build a trow of 20 tons for that purpose out of scrap timber, which stands the State in good stead in carrying it up and down the Severn at very easy rates, and will carry down the timber for a very small matter, where it shall be in readiness, let the ships come when they will for it, provided notice is given that it is to be delivered at Sherehampton, a place that will contain thousands of tons by the water side. [1 page.]
Aug. 7.
Yarmouth.
16. Major Wm. Burton to the Admiralty Commissioners. The Fame and Vulture have arrived, and gone to Harwich to victual. The Vulture reports that there are 35 sail in Goree, ready to come out, whereof 2 are fire-ships, and formerly carried 22 guns each. The hoy with the cordage and the things saved from the Laurel has been waiting a week for a convoy. I have drawn bills on the Treasurer for the remainder of my money, and hope they will be paid. The town have ordered two townsmen to come up to the Council, and you, to see if there may be an agreement made between England and Flanders, to fish freely on both sides without molestation. [1 page.]
Aug. 7.
The George, Plymouth Sound.
17. Capt. Robt. Clarke to the Admiralty Commissioners. We sailed from Cascales Bay the 17th ult., with the Newbury and Colchester, and came into Plymouth Sound by order of the General, who much desired to get on shore before he died, but as soon as they entered the Sound, at 10 a.m., he departed this life, to the great loss of the State and nation.
Last night we parted with the Swiftsure and the rest of the fleet off the Lizard, they being bound for the Downs; I will sail there myself with the first wind. The General yesterday charged RearAdmiral Bourne, Mr. Creed, and myself to represent the sad condition of the fleet left behind under the command of Capt. Jno. Stoakes. [1 page.]
Aug. 7.
Plymouth.
18. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to the Admiralty Commissioners. This day, about 12 o'clock, the George, Newbury, and Colchester came into the Road, and 2 hours before, it pleased the Lord to put a period to the days of Gen. Blake. Capt. Clarke says he was very desirous to be ashore, and if God saw it good, to add some days to his life for settling of his estate, but his course was finished, and his memorial shall be blessed. As he lived, so he continued to the death, faithful. The Lord grant that a supply of his great loss may be made up, for the good of his poor people !
The Swiftsure and 7 others of the fleet with Mr. Creed went eastward; it is reported that many of the ships left on the coast of Spain are in a very sad condition, not only in respect of their bodies and tackle, but also in the sickness and weakness of their men, and that if some of the ships do not come home before winter, they will probably be lost. Would not it be advisable to send for all the defective and second-rate ships, and send others in their stead as soon as they can be got ready? I have directed Capt. Clarke to take the first opportunity to sail to the Downs, and to take the East India ship and such others as are bound eastward under his convoy. [1 page.]
Aug. 7. Notes of petitions referred to the Committee for Petitions, and of their reports, all in I. 93, on which no Council orders appear, viz:—
Tenants and inhabitants of the manor of Old Paris Garden, for stay of Wm. Angel, who has purchased the demesnes, and erected several cottages, from erecting more on a waste ground which has been enjoyed by the tenants 220 years, as thereby the common sewers will be dammed up, the high road stopped, many poor brought in, endangering infection, and they deprived of having water in case of fire. With reference to Sir Rich. Onslow and 3 other justices of Surrey, to examine the matter and report. [No. 6.]
Geo. Thomson. In 1643, discovered a design to his Highness, whereon he was committed to the Tower, his Highness promising he should not suffer, but be provided for: lost for 4 years his employment as surveyor at Southampton, worth 100l. a year, his goods were seized, and he put to great charge. Report that his case be referred to Council. [No. 13.]
Rob. Lavington, for payment of 7l. 10s. arrears due for service in Scotland, stopped because he came not in time to claim it. Report that he should be paid out of the residue of the 150,000l. in the hands of the late Treasurers-at-war for Scotch arrears, and that the Army Committee issue a warrant accordingly, the delay in making the claim notwithstanding. [No. 14.]
Aug. 7. Jonathan Dawes, for repayment of 317l. 16s. paid for redemption of 5 English captives, and certified by Sir Thos. Bendish to be paid out of the Algiers duty. Reference to the Committee for Redemption of Captives, to examine and report. [No. 15.]
Aug. 8.
The Rainbow, Off Cadiz.
19. Capt. Jno. Stoakes to the Admiralty Commissioners. I send some Spanish letters taken out of 2 Hollanders which I searched which came out of Cadiz, bound for the Canaries, and also their translations, whereby it will be seen that there is a proclamation from the King of Spain for the speedy setting forth of a considerable fleet of 40 sail, and denoting their intentions for the secure bringing home of their estates from the Canaries. I am informed by other letters intercepted of some Flemings daily expected from the Canaries with Spanish goods, the only course they intend to take to bring home their goods, if not prevented.
We came to anchor before Cadiz the 25th ult., and I have my scouts daily abroad, and will be very vigilant and careful. The Hampshire has arrived with a Hamburgher and another with masts, and the Falcon has gone to Madeira for the wine, with the Providence for a convoy. [1 page.]
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
20. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to Robt. Blackborne. I suppose Mr. Creed has been with you, and given an account of the state of the fleet on the coast of Spain. I am glad to hear that the report which was drawn up for Jamaica has passed the Council, so that those frigates which are incapable of service, and the great ships, which are not for winter work, will be called home, and others sent in their stead, and that ⅓ of the fleet on that coast will be relieved every 4 months for the time to come. I beg payment of an enclosed account to Mr. Powell as heretofore, and I have left the other accounts with your servant Jas. Southern. The George Newbury, and Colchester sailed on Saturday night, the George carrying away the body of General Blake; I suppose he will have a very honourable interment, befitting a person of his worth, who indeed, setting some human frailties aside (from which the best of men are not free), may be ranked with most that have gone before him in our age. [1 page.]
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
21. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to the Admiralty Commissioners. The Mayflower has been repaired, and is taking in two months' provisions for service about the Land's End and the Severn. The George, Newbury, and Colchester sailed towards the Downs on Saturday night. The body of Gen. Blake was embalmed, and carried away in the George, and his bowels brought on shore here and buried. [¾ page.]
Aug. 11/21.
Whitehall.
Sec. Thurloe to [— Swift?]. I am glad to hear that the English foot continue so well together, the rather because those in Flanders brag that very many are come over to them, and listed in Charles Stuart's troop. I hear that you had a timely discovery of a design to debauch the army, and that justice was done on the capital offenders. Particulars would be welcome.
* * * * * * * *
Gen. Blake died on his return home, 2 hours before his ship reached Plymouth; a very worthy and brave man is gone, and a faithful servant of his Highness. [Extract, French correspondence.]
Aug. 11. Notes of petitions referred to the Committee for Petitions, on which no Council order appears—all in I. 93:—
Thos. Heber for stay of the rebuilding of Skipton Castle, demolished divers years since by order, but the Countess of Pembroke has brought materials for its rebuilding. Reference to some persons in the country, to see what is intended, and whether it will prejudice the State. [No. 20.]
Nath. Brad, mariner. On a reference from his Highness, it was awarded that John Southwood, merchant of London, should pay him 336l. 19s. 4d., which he refuses to do. Begs not to be again left to troubles and vexatious evils, but to be enabled to go to sea again in the service. Laid aside. [No. 49.]
Gunmakers of London, for purchase of a large quantity of muskets and pistols which have long lain dead on their hands, at such rates that they may live comfortably, and have further employment. With reference to the Admiralty Commissioners, to see how the stores may be supplied out of the said arms, and the petitioners be paid. [No. 50.]
Rich. Doe and others, for a Committee to seize goods imported or intended to be exported contrary to law, as great quantities of hides, fullers' earth, and other prohibited goods are exported, and goods imported in small vessels, and landed at creeks. With reference to the Committee for preservation of Customs, to certify. [No. 52.]
Aug. 12. Notes of petitions referred to the Committee for Petitions on which no orders in Council appear, all in I. 93, viz.:—
Rich. Eccleston and Jas. Rand, for hearing of the report of the referees on their propositions for the advancement of learning. With order that it be read in Council. [No. 26.]
Grissell Jarman; her husband lent 50l. in 1642 and 90l. in 1643 on Public faith; 233l. arrears are due to him; she is aged, weak, without subsistence, and 150l. in debt, for 100l. of which she is arrested; begs payment of Public faith money, stay of proceedings, and an allowance; with certificate from the Lord Mayor, Ald. Underwood, and 2 others, that she is a godly woman, and her condition deplorable. Her case to be represented to Council for a pension. [No. 27.]
Inhabitants of Chester, for a hearing of the report on their prepared charter. Report to be offered to Council. [No. 30.]
Nich. Bond, clerk controller to the late King's children, for a 99 years' lease of church lands in Ireland, in lieu of an annuity of 200l. a year, settled on him by Ordinance in Dec. 1645, on dissolving the family, being ⅓ of his profits, to be paid out of the Court of Wards or other revenue, and of 1,539l. arrears certified to be due to him thereon. To be offered to Council. [No. 32.]
Hen. Atherton, for an order to the sheriff or justices to put him in possession of Great Crosby Chapel, co. Lancaster, to which he has been presented, and has been approved, but the malignant tenants of Lord Molineux keep the chapel doors shut against him; or for the chief of them to be summoned, to show the cause of their opposition. [No. 38.]
Jas. Chaloner, Esq. Before the late war, was secured in the Tower, and his papers seized by order of the Privy Council; was extremely oppressed by the late King in his alum rights, so that 6,000l. is owing to him, yet he lost 10,000l., and the King got 100,000l. by his alum works. During the wars, his estate was sequestered, and he brought very low by it, the King's garrisons, the executions of the Scots, and other pressures. Begs payment of 3,291l. 13s. 4d. due to him from the Exchequer by privy seal in 1637, on which Nath. Bacon and 2 other referees certify that nothing has been paid. Noted as fit for Parliament. [No. 43.]
Nath. Whetham, for a lease under the Great Seal of Scotland of lands and profits to be discovered by him as belonging to his Highness, towards 1,600l. due to him for service. [No. 45.]
Edw. Ayscough, for his wife, and Anne, daughter of John Prigion, late registrar of Lincoln, for 20l. a year each to them out of the Office of Probate of Wills, or some other maintenance. Prigion gave many thousands for the office for 3 lives, and it was the only maintenance he left his widow and 12 children, of whom only these 2 sisters survive. They had allowances till the probate of wills was transferred out of the county. His Highness granted petitioner the keeping of the records, but it requires a man's attendance, and hardly pays him, so that very little profit comes to the aged and destitute sisters. To be offered to Council. [No. 48.]
Hen. Dickenson, for reference to the Committee at Whitehall for Approbation of Ministers, and continuance, at the desire of the inhabitants, in Egremont parsonage, on the ejection of Isaac Antrobus for scandal and malignancy. He was ejected by the Cumberland Commissioners for insufficiency. With several certificates of his good conversation. Laid aside. [No. 56.]
Wm. Coxe and Sam. Foxley, for relief from 422l. 10s. 0d. due out of an annuity of 500l. on the estate of Lord Powis, sold to them by the Trustees for Delinquents' Estates, which was paid into the Exchequer by the Sequestration Commissioners of North Wales. The Treasury Commissioners certify that 422l. 10s. 0d. is due, but petitioners paid their first ½ but 2 days before 25 March 1652, when a ½ year's rent of 250l. was due. Referred to the Treasury Commissioners. [No. 57.]
Lord Duke Chas. Dudley, his wife, brother, and children, for a patent of denization. Submitted to Council. [No. 58.]
Aug. 13. Council. Day's Proceedings.
[The orders marked thus * were approved in person.]
1.22. Order—on report from the Committee on the provisions to be made for next year's fleet, [see 6 Aug. 1657]—that 6 months' victuals be ordered for 30,000 men. Approved 14 August.
2. The Admiralty Commissioners to give order for the interment of Gen. Blake in Westminster Abbey, with the same preparations as made for the funeral of Gen. Deane; Greenwich House to be prepared for reception of his body, and the housekeeper and others to yield obedience thereto.
His Highness present.
3. Order—on report from the Admiralty Commissioners that speedy course should be taken to pay 60,000l. wages due to the 11 ships of the fleet late under Gen. Blake, now arrived from the coast of Spain, all of which, except one, have been out 20 months; that as the receipts of customs and excise cannot answer these and other emergencies of naval affairs, and as the State will be at great charge in allowing them victuals and wages till paid off, 50,000l. be borrowed on the credit of the Act touching buildings, to pay off these ships. Annexing,
23. Report alluded to 11 August 1657. [2/3 page.]
4. The Committee on Revenue business to treat with fit persons from whom to borrow 50,000l. on credit of the Act for Building, to pay the said ships.
5. Col. Jephson to receive 600l. beside the 400l. advanced for his negotiation into Sweden, out of the Exchequer money designed for forces in Ireland, which is to be repaid from the first money coming in on the Act for Building; his Highness to be advised to issue the necessary warrants.
6. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners, out of the money for the forces in Ireland, to pay Philip Meadows 100l. towards his present negotiation, to be repaid as above.
7. 1,000l. to be paid out of the Exchequer money designed for Ireland to Thos. Luddington, for provisions he sent into France for Reynolds' forces there, to be repaid out of the 50,000l. to be borrowed; his Highness to be advised to issue warrants therefor.
8.* On information that Capt. Diamond, master of the Little Diamond, fitted her out 2 years ago as a private man-of-war without any commission, and before sailing from Foy, stole 20 sheep from the people there for his own use, and at sea forcibly took some provisions from a Dutch ship, and is now detained in custody in Cornwall,—order that he be put into Cornwall county gaol, to await his trial at the next quarter sessions or assize, and the contents of his ship inventoried and secured, wherein Desborow is to give order.
9.* Order on petition of Sir Miles Hobart, K.B., that Henry Horedesnell have liberty to stay in England 3 months longer, on good security in the usual terms.
10.* On his Highness and Council's taking note of the hand of God which at this time is gone out against this nation, in the present visitation by sickness, that has spread much, and calls on the people to humble themselves in a special manner before the Lord, and seek His face in reference thereunto,—order that Friday, 21 August, be set apart as a day of solemn fasting in London and Westminster, and places within the weekly bills of mortality, and wherever else shall be appointed, not doubting but the people of God will be forward to so necessary a duty.
11. Strickland to give notice to Mr. Hook, Mr. Sterry, and Mr. How, that they are to preach at Whitehall on the 21st.
12. The petition of the greater part of the Common Councilmen, churchwardens, and other well-affected inhabitants of Botolph's parish, Aldgate,— setting forth that on their demanding liberty for John Simpson to preach at the said church the last Lord's Day, according to the order of Aug. 4, they were denied by Mr. Crofton's forcibly keeping possession of the pulpit,— referred to the Committee on the former contempt, to report to-morrow, and Crofton and others to be summoned to show cause.
13. The same Committee to consider the whole matter charged on Mr. Crofton and the examinations taken by the Lord Mayor and others, and to report.
14. The same Committee to consider fit persons to be added to the Commissioners for ejecting scandalous Ministers, &c., in London.
15. A draft letter to the Commissioners for ejecting scandalous Ministers in the various counties, to speedily execute the Ordinance in that behalf, read, amended, and agreed to.
17. Several members of the East India Company attending at the door were called in, and answered some objections made against the passing of their charter.
18. The Lord Deputy, Strickland, Mr. Secretary, Desborow, Sydenham, and Lisle, to consider Fiennes' paper containing the said objections, consult with the Attorney-General, or the Counsel learned, or the Judges, and report.
19.* Whereas it was ordered on 4 Aug. that the profits of the excise of ale and beer in Edinburgh and Leith till 24 June next should go towards the building of the citadel at Leith, it is now ordered that it be so applied till 9,000l. has been raised therefrom.
20. The draft commission for improving the Scotch revenue, presented by Mr. Secretary, referred to Lisle, Mulgrave, Sydenham, Skippon, Desborow, Mr. Secretary, and Lord Deputy, to report.
21. Sir John Berkstead, Geo. Downing, and Nath. Taylor added to the Committee for sorting the registers of Scotland, by Order of July 23 last.
22. The desires of Sir Wm. Waller about the prizage wines, on occasion of the farming of the Customs, signified by Council to his Highness, referred to the Committee on the public income and charges of the Commonwealth, to receive Sir William's desires, and report.
23. Strickland, Skippon, Lord Deputy, Mulgrave, Lisle, Pickering, Desborow, and Mr. Secretary to consider what the wine merchants and coopers have offered to his Highness, and report.
24. The same Committee to consider the petition of the inhabitants of the Liberty of the Tower, and report.
25. The petition of the vintners, wine coopers, and merchants referred to the same Committee, to report.
26. The petition of the clothiers of co. Kent read, and referred to Desborow, Pickering, Strickland, to report.
27,29. The report on M. Blondeau's case to be considered tomorrow; also the petition of Sir Paul Davys. [I. 78, pp. 69–75.]
Aug. 13.
Whitehall.
President Lawrence to the Lord Mayor of London and Commissioners for ejecting scandalous Ministers. Parliament being sensible of the prejudice to the work of the Gospel and the interest of godliness, by the creeping in and continuance of ignorant, scandalous, and insufficient ministers and schoolmasters, and of the good to be done by their ejection to the work of reformation, after which the people have so thirsted; and also considering the good work already done by the Ordinance for ejecting scandalous Ministers, have judged it necessary to continue the same longer, in order to perfect the work in many neglected places. His Highness and Council therefore desire you to meet and pursue the work of ejecting scandalous ministers and schoolmasters with renewed diligence. With note of a like letter to the Commissioners for ejecting scandalous Ministers in the several counties of England and Wales, 29 Oct. 1657. [I. 77, pp. 977–8.]
Aug. 13.
St. Jean de Luz.
24. Capt. Sidrack Blake to the Admiralty Commissioners. I thank you and Don Diego de Villa Alva for procuring me my freedom. I hear there are 7 Biscay men-of-war—2 of 24 guns each—5 sail of Irish frigates from 4 to 8 guns, and 6 Dunkirkers of small force, save one of 36 guns, all of which are going to look for the Newfoundland men, so that it would be as well if 3 or 4 frigates were sent to hinder those rogues from going out, or to take them and their prizes coming in, as also to watch the fishermen of the place who father many Spanish vessels. It is thought that the India ships will henceforth come for this coast, as some of late have arrived in safety, viz., 2 from the Indies and 3 from the Canaries, richly laden with a quantity of plate. I will hasten home with all speed, and give you further particulars. [1½ pages.]
Aug. 13.
St. Jean de Luz.
25. Thos. Hart to the Admiralty Commissioners. I find there is now some compliance of the Spaniards with your desire for the enlargement of English prisoners in Biscay, and in particular for Capt. Sidrack Blake, who has since been set at liberty. I am sensible of your favour and care of him, in giving so good an exchange as Don Diego de Villa Alva, who has most honourably complied with his obligation. As for the rest of the English prisoners in the province of Biscay, I have promised that all shall be freed provided all those of the province in England are freed; also that they will take care that from henceforth no prisoners are kept there, looking nevertheless for a reciprocal dealing with those in England.
There is one however who cannot be freed without an order from the King, the Irish having accused him of being a spy, although they cannot prove anything against him. He has endured 18 months' misery through Martin Brise, now a prisoner in England and of the Irish rebel crew; so that it will be a charity to take care for his liberty, which may be worked out by that of Brise, who accused him. I beg you will order the freedom of all those of the said province, and in the meantime of 2 named, for whose liberty I partly engaged, to facilitate Capt. Sidrack Blake's liberty, and I am assured of having freed for them more than equivalent, as they will deliver up some masters they procured of the Dunkirkers, who commanded some rich prizes lately taken.
P.S.—Since writing this, I have received 3 prisoners from the Governor of Fuentarabia, and a promise to deliver all up for the future, and therefore hope you will do the same, so as to beget a good correspondence. [2 pages.]
Aug. 13/23.
Blois.
26. Edw. Norris to Williamson. I find by fresh letters from my father that the grand tour would take too much time to execute it in the short time he gives me, 2 months being the least required, so you need not trouble about a messenger. [1½ pages, French.]
Aug. 13/23.
Paris.
27. C. George to Williamson. I have been to M. Jean Batalhié, but he says he has received nothing for you. [1 page, French.]
Aug. 14. 28. Petition of the officers of Col. Salmon's regiment to the Protector and Council. There were 100 soldiers drawn out of my regiment to go to France under Sir John Reynolds, and 67 were shipped from Harwich. I paid them to 25 May, but by Council order, I was only to pay them to the 18th, and the rest was to be paid at Dover. I beg an order for that week's pay, which the Army Committee have defalcated. [¾ page.] Annexing,
28. i. Receipt by Capt. Rich. Roothe of 67 of Col. Salmon's soldiers, to go to Boulogne. 14 May 1657. [Scrap.]
Aug. 14. Order that Maj.-Gen. Thos. Kelsey and Capt. Hen. Hatsell pay him the week's pay out of the remainder of the 5,000l. sent to Dover for a month's pay for the forces sent to France. Approved in person. [I. 78, p. 79.]
Aug.14. 29. Petition of the major part of the Common Councilmen, Churchwardens, and other well affected inhabitants of the parish of Botolph Without, Aldgate, London, to the Protector. According to your order of 4 August (for which we thank you) John Simpson went to preach in our church on 9 August, Sunday afternoon, but [Zachary] Crofton, the minister, in contempt of your order, refused him the pulpit, and kept it, being guarded by constables of Middlesex who have no authority within the liberties of the City of London, and caused much disturbance, hazarding bloodshed. We beg still to enjoy Mr. Simpson's preaching without molestation. [25 signatures.]
Aug. 14. Order on report from the Committee to whom the case of Mr. Crofton's contempt was committed, that Simpson be lecturer at Botolph's, Aldgate, at 2 p.m. Sundays, and one week day, and that Mr. Crofton be required to permit the same. Approved in person. [I. 78, p. 80.]
Aug. 14. 30. Report thereon by Fleetwood and Pickering, that Crofton pleads his right as incumbent, by presentation from his Highness, to preach on the Sunday afternoon, but after he had done, he allowed Simpson to preach, and also on week days. He knows not anything in the church books about Simpson's being lecturer by election of the people. He gave out on 4 August that he should have done by 3, and then Mr. Simpson would preach, but some of Simpson's congregation came at 2 and threatened him. He kept the pulpit after the forenoon exercise, but denies having the constables, only he desired the officers to look to their duties. [1½ pages.]
Aug. 14. 31. Petition of Katherine, widow of Hen. Shadwell, clockkeeper at Whitehall, to Council, for continuance in her husband's place and salary, for the relief of herself and 6 children, having agreed with a person to keep the clock and ring the bell. With note by John Maidstone that if the petition is granted, he will take care that a sufficient person is provided for the duty. [1 page.]
Aug. 14. Order thereon granting the petition. [I. 78, p. 81.]
Aug. 14. Council. Day's Proceedings.
[The orders marked thus* were approved in person.]
1. For speedy execution of the order of 13 August, for payment of 1,000l. to Thos. Luddington for Sir John Reynolds' forces—order to advise a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay 1,000l. to G. Frost for the contingencies of Council, and a warrant to Frost to pay the sum to Luddington.
2. On Mr. Secretary's report from the Committee on borrowing 50,000l. to pay the seamen that came home from Spain, that they have received one offer for part of the sum, and expect more offers, and desire direction how the sums shall be secured—order to advise the Treasury Commissioners to repay the lenders out of the first sums coming in on the Act for Buildings up to 40,000l., according to what is borrowed, and if that shall not bring in enough, to pay it out of Customs' money.
3. A letter from the Council in Scotland, signed by Gen. Monk, and dated Edinburgh, 25 June 1657, read, and a draft order concerning Lord Dedhope's estate read and agreed to.
4. On a letter from the Council in Scotland of 7 August 1656, concerning the condition of Lord Dedhope's estate, and the proposed fine of 1,500l. to release it from confiscation, and their request that the money may be allowed in compensation of the losses of those who suffered by opposing the rebels there in 1654, according to Gen. Monk's proclamation in that behalf; and that Dedhope have 3 months to settle the dates of payment, and if he do it not satisfactorily in 3 months, that his creditors have leave to undertake for the same, and if any shall pay in the 1,500l. he may be repaid out of the estate:—order that on payment of the 1,500l., Dedhope's estate be discharged from sequestration, and the money used as desired. Approved 23 August.
7. The petition of Thos. Thompson of Duddington, in Scotland, and a letter from the Council in Scotland annexed, referred to the Committee on Scotch Affairs, to report.
His Highness present.
11.* Order on the petition of Thos. Warren, and a certificate from the Committee for redemption of Captives of 18 March 1656–57, that on his contract of 3 May 1655, 162l. 5s. should be paid him, for his services in redeeming Mich. Howard, master, Nich. Devereux, mate, and John Coleman, boatswain, captives in Sally,—that the Customs' Commissioners or farmers pay him the sum out of the half per cent. money designed by Parliament for redemption of captives taken by Turkish and Moorish pirates.
13. The petition of Sarah, relict of Ed. Cawey, read and referred to Pickering and Strickland, to report.
14.* Order on petition of Thos. Dunn, Registrar for receiving appearances in London—shewing that in the new militia establishment, he was promised for himself and clerk, and rent of office, 400l. a year, of which he has received but 200l. for more than 2 years,—that he be paid the 600l. out of the Exchequer, and henceforth cease to execute the said office, and to advise a warrant accordingly.
17.* The clerks of Council are to examine the arrears due of 300l. a year, ordered 9 January 1655–56, to Serjt. Shepherd, up to Michaelmas next, when the said payment is to cease, and to prepare a warrant to Frost for payment.
18.* Order on report from the Committee on American Affairs, that there is great necessity to pay 1,000l. to Fras. Hodges, Treasurer for the Jamaica forces, for arrears, &c., to advise a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners, out of the first money coming into the Prize Office, to pay the said 1,000l., and Hodges in distributing it is to observe the directions of the American Committee.
19.* The above Committee to examine Hodges' account as Treasurer of Jamaica forces, compare his account of payments with the vouchers, and report.
20.* The Committee for America, being appointed 28 July last to consider the arrears due to the wives, widows, children, and assignees of the officers and soldiers of Jamaica, are also to consider those who were late officers and soldiers, and are now returned to England.
22, 23. 32. Order on a list sent in by the Committee of Council who were to consider of provisions for the sea forces for the ensuing year, of 17 ships that should be made ready for present service — that the Admiralty Commissioners order the said ships to be prepared. Approved. Annexing,
32. i. List of 17 ships, 9 of which are in the Downs and Channel, and 7 have returned from Spain; also note of 7 that remain in Spain, after the 3 men-of-war and defective frigate hare returned. Also note of the position of 60 ships that may be a competent number for next winter's guard. [1¾ pages.]
32. ii. Order by the Admiralty Commissioners to request directions for timely calling in 9 of the frigates on the coast of Spain, and preparing others in their room, as several officers of the fleet report that on account of defects in their hull, masts, and rigging, it will be hazardous to continue the second rate ships abroad this coming winter. 12 August 1657.
24. The petition of Ed. Rumsey to the Protector read and not referred.
25. Approval by the Protector of 5 orders, 23 July to 14 August. [I. 78, pp. 76–85.]
Aug. 14.
Elsinore.
33. Capt. J. Grymesditch to the Admiralty Commissioners. I convoyed several ships from the Hope to Dramme, Longsound, and Gottenburg, and then came to Elsinore, expecting to find some homeward bound, but none will be ready for 6 weeks. I found, however, several letters desiring convoy from masters of ships staying at Gottenburg and Longsound, the rendezvous of the fleet, and will proceed thither.
My entertainment here has not been so placable that I am much taken with it; upon landing, the Governor was very inquisitive as to the cause of my coming, and nothing would serve but the production of my orders, and I was kept under restraint until they were fetched from the ship, when they gave satisfaction. I find the people are much terrified with the thoughts of the English assistance to the Swede, and I heard a Major declare to the Governor that he heard from the King's own mouth that his Highness had sent 24 frigates to aid the Swede. The 2 armies are within four Dutch miles, and but one mile distant from each other, so that a daily engagement is expected, and the people are here very greedy to receive the event. I will leave the Half Moon, in case any ships should come, so as to bring them to me. [1 page.] Enclosing,
33. i. Journal of his voyage for Norway and the Eastland, 27 July-13Aug. [1 page.]
Aug. 14.
Yarmouth.
34. Major Wm. Burton to the Admiralty Commissioners. I hear you have ordered the re-victualling of the Fame and Vulture, which are both wanted to convoy vessels. I wonder the bailiffs should write about the poor fishermen who picked up some things belonging to the Laurel, and never mention it to me. When they find anything, I always cause them to prize it, and if they do so too highly, I leave it in their hands, and they pay the State ¾ths of the value; but if reasonably, I give them ¼th, by which means there is no discontent, and there is not a man that could justly demand a penny but he has been paid.
The bailiffs, especially Bendish, would not write you about the poor men who were saved, being all wet and many maimed, that when my son went to him for orders to the constable to get them lodgings, he refused, and bade him get them himself, which he was forced to do; but the truth is, the man is drunk with pride, and has so carried himself this year as bailiff, that he is an affliction to the church, and all the men of quality have informed me of the unworthiness of his carriage. He rails against me because I was chosen burgess, for he used all means to obtain it and I to refuse it, but the House chose me, and that makes Bendish abuse me and mine; but I care not for any man's aspersions, as I can justify anything I take in hand. [1½ pages.]
Aug. 15.
London.
Levant Company to Sir Thos. Bendish. You will receive letters herewith from his Highness, and some to the Grand Seignior and Vizier, for restitution of the Resolution and her lading, to which we refer you. We enclose a particular of each one's adventure that has come to our knowledge, that you may be exact in your demand, and we will trust you will use your best endeavours herein. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 292.]
Aug. 15.
London.
Levant Company to Spencer Bretton. On your notice of 5 June of the surprisal by the Turks of the Resolution, we procured his Highness's letters to the Grand Seignior and Vizier for restitution thereof, and release of the captives, which we do not see how they can refuse to do, as it is so contrary to the law of nations and rules of commerce for a ship trading peaceably to be seized as a prize.
We therefore hope for reparation according to the means in use there, and desire your assistance to his Lordship, for satisfaction to those concerned in the ship and goods, and for discharge of the prisoners. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 292.]
Aug. 15.
Hull.
35. Major Rich. Elton to the Admiralty Commissioners. I am requested by several merchants to desire your order to Capt. Pickering of the Peveril, to convoy their 10 laden ships bound for London, as his ship will be cleaned and victualled by the 20th inst. There are also 3 richly laden bound for Dort that can go with him as far as Yarmouth, for whom he can call on his return, and convoy them to their destination. I humbly thank you for your order for the release of the three women's husbands who are prisoners at Ostend, and beg you will grant the merchants' desires. [1 page.]
Aug. 15.
Wymondham.
36. Rich. Hampden to the Admiralty Commissioners. As General Blake has departed this life, and his Highness has committed to your care the providing of things necessary for his honourable interment, I beg you will appoint me to furnish you with what cloth and baize the occasion shall require. I hope, being his Highness's draper, and always made use of in this kind, as in Admiral Deane's funeral, to have the like favour now. Being abroad, I send my partner for an answer, who managed the last funeral of this nature by my directions. [1 page.]
Aug. 16.
The Colchester, Gravesend.
37. Capt. Sam. Blake to the Admiralty Commissioners. Having received orders from Gen. Montague to bring the corpse of Gen. Blake to Deptford, I have arrived at Gravesend, and will lose no opportunity of getting up to Deptford, which I hope will be by tomorrow evening, when I shall wait your commands. [2/3 page.]
Aug. 18. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order on a paper signed by Lord Wariston, Mr. Gillespy, and Mr. Simpson,— that the papers containing the resolves of the referees to whom the business was formerly referred, certified by Dr. Owen and Mr. Scobell, be delivered to Lord Deputy, Lisle, Pickering, Mulgrave, Strickland, Rous, Skippon, Desborow, and Mr. Secretary, to report.
2. The petition of James Sharpe, minister of the Gospel, referred to the same Committee.
3. The Treasury Commissioners to give warrant for payment of several pensions granted by Privy Seal, the order of 16 July last notwithstanding.
4. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to allow an augmentation of 50l. a year to the minister of Methwold, co. Norfolk. Approved 28 August.
5. On a report on the case of Maj. Geo. Walters [see 7 Aug. 1656]— that for the sums due to him for service, in right of his wife, on Public faith, for disbursements for Cork, on Worcester House bonds, made over to him by Col. Phaire, and for raising and taking a foot regiment into Ireland in 1650, 4,198l. 0s. 6d., was to be allowed him from lands in Connaught, but he has received no fruit, and the Commissioners, considering his losses in transporting forces to Spain, through the King of Spain's failure to perform his contract, think that 1,440l. 1s. 9d. should be added, and thus 5,638l. 2s. 3d. is due to him,—and also on a Parliament order of 15 June 1657, requesting an effectual course for his relief; — order that the Lord Deputy and Council be requested to settle lands on him worth 5,638l. 2s. 3d. in Connaught or elsewhere—and that 50l. be advanced him for his charge to Ireland, to be repaid from the revenue in Ireland. Annexing,
38. Report alluded to, signed by Fleetwood and Strickland. [Draft, 1½ pages.]
38. i. Note of an addition to the said letter, passed 9 Sept. [¾ page; also I. 78, pp. 138–9.]
6. The petition of Chris. Newstead, minister of Maidenhead, co. Berks, and 2 certificates from Maj.-Gen. Goffe and the County Commissioners, referred to M.M. Nye, Griffith, Jenkyn, and Cooper, to speak with Mr. Newstead, and certify concerning his fitness to be restored to his ministrations there.
8. Order on report from a Committee of Council on the case of the officers of the Committee for Trade [see 10 March 1657]— that their salary is from 27 Nov. 1655 to 27 May 1657, of which half a year is paid, and that a year's salary, in all 280l., is due to them, —for payment thereof out of Council's contingencies. Approved August 28. Annexing,
39. Report alluded to, signed by Montague and Fleetwood. [1 page.]
9. Lord Deputy, Mulgrave, Skippon, and Lisle added to the Committee on the petition of the inhabitants of the Tower Liberty.
10. The petition of Thos. Lock, concerning obstruction in co. Derby to the execution of letters patent granted him for searching for mines royal, referred to Mulgrave, Lord Deputy, Lisle, Strickland, Rous, Skippon, Desborow, and Mr. Secretary, to examine the matter and report; and the petition to be sent to the Earl of Rutland, that he may attend when Council appoints a time for the hearing. [I. 78, pp. 85–92.]
Aug. 18.
The Vulture, Harwich.
40. Capt. Anth. Rively to the Admiralty Commissioners. I send a letter received while at the Brill from Hen. Gore, of Rotterdam, desiring me to apprehend Arthur Sampson and Rich. Paxford, two watermen, who escaped from London, and came over to Holland with some men of rank. I missed them in Holland, the letter coming too late, but laid hold of them on arriving at Harwich, and delivered them to the lieutenant of Landguard Fort, with orders to send them up to his Highness, as directed by Mr. Grymes [or Gree]. I took them first before Justice Smith and Justice Hunter of Harwich, but could get no justice from them, as they would not commit the men. I was therefore forced to put them on board Capt. Wright's vessel from Sunday to the following Tuesday, when I delivered them to Lieut. Edw. Jones, of Landguard Fort. [1 page.] Enclosing,
40. i. Hen. Gree to the Captain of the Vulture. There is a sculler at the Brill, and you are to get the men aboard your ship, and have them delivered to be examined at the Council table in England concerning the persons they took aboard at Margate. [1½ page.]
Aug. 18.
Harwich.
41. John Hunter and Dan. Smyth to the Admiralty Commissioners. Capt. Rively brought the said 2 watermen before us, and we send their examinations; we took recognizances in 300l. each, and Rivers in 200l. as surety, for their appearance before the Admiralty Commissioners within 30 days from this date, to answer matters objected on behalf of the Protector. [¾ page.] Annexing,
41. i. Deposition of John Rivers, of Gravel Lane, Stepney, Mariner, that being bound for Flushing to buy his vessel, lately taken by two Dunkirk men-of-war, he engaged Arthur Sampson and Rich. Paxford, of Battersea, to accompany him with their wherry to Flushing, to help to bring home the vessel; that he took passage in a Dutch hoy belonging to Dort, and had the wherry with him, and, except Leonard Sherman, of Gravesend, no other Englishman went over with them. 18 Aug. 1657. [1 page.]
41. ii. Deposition of Arthur Sampson and Rich. Paxford that they were hired by Rivers at a salary of 3l., a piece for the voyage out and in. 18 Aug. 1657. [1 page.]
41. iii. Certificate by Smyth that he has bound Paxford and Sampson to appear before the Admiralty Commissioners at Whitehall 18 Aug. 1657. [¾ page.]
Aug. 19.
Westminster.
42. Denis Bond to Sec. Thurloe. Thos. Waltham is to receive the money for bringing up your letters from Weymouth. His charge is 7l. 15s. 0d., but he should have allowance for waiting 11 days. I have ordered the Mayor to convey your letters to the next post when there is none at Dorchester. With receipt by Waltham of 7l. 15s. for Thos. Daniel, of Weymouth. [1 page.]
Aug. 19/29.
Paris.
Col. Jo. Bam[field to Sec. Thurloe]. I start next Friday, and hope to be in Frankfort in 12 days; the diet does not begin till 7 Sept. I have letters to several there, beside knowing the Prince Elector and Prince Rupert, and having interest with M. de Gramont and Count Maurice, of Nassau, and I hope my service will contradict those informations you have received against me; though when I consider the deep impressions which (as I found from your discourse with me in your chamber the first night I waited on you) had been made on you by the malice of my enemies, I almost despair of recovering your good opinion. I am innocent of any breach of promise to you, though you say I did not deal honourably with you in my last correspondence. I have received the money. When I have made such a bare provision as is needful to appear among the persons who can enlighten me, and paid for my journey, which will cost 40 pistoles, I shall enter Frankfort with 10, which will not maintain me many days, and to fall into want would frustrate any possibility of service. Pray send me 50l. to Lucas Lucy, merchant in London, whose correspondent deals at Frankfort. Let the bill be sent to me as Jean Newman, Frankfort, addressed to Gerard Huish, merchant, Paris. When I said 100l. would fit me for Frankfort, I did not consider how I should live when I came thither. I will write to you every post, and send duplicates addressed to John Upton, merchant, London. [3 pages, copy, French correspondence.]
Aug. 19/29. 43. Bill of Mr. Smith since 29 July for wine, supper, and his share, being one third of the expenses of the Chambord voyage, viz., 3 livres 7 sous; total, 8 livres 4 sous. [2/3 page, F.]
Aug. 19/29.
Flushing.
Wm. Blunden to Sec. Nicholas, Bruges. Lord Goring died in Madrid 25 July, and lies interred in St. George's, a chapel of the English fathers of the society. The Spanish convoy are here ready to sail, 8 ships bound for Biscay, Cadiz, and Malaga. The English convoy went home on Monday. If the wind continue contrary, I shall take a boat for Calais, and so overland. Noted as received 1 Sept. [1 page, Flanders correspondence.]
Aug. 20. 44. Petition of Joan, widow of Thomas Shafto, late Governor, for the officers and soldiers of Holy Island, to the Protector, for payment from discoveries to be made by them of moneys concealed in co. Durham, of the balance of the arrears due to them, 900l. 5s. 5d., of which 390l. 9s. 5d. is allowed in lieu of 395l. already paid. With the names of 12 holders of concealed money. With reference to Council, 13 June 1655. [1 sheet.] Annexing,
44. i. Particulars of discoveries towards the arrears for Holy Island of sums in the hands of John Care, of Northumberland, the portion of Katherine, wife of Talbot Lisle, a Papist, 200l,
Hay sold by John Jackson, of co. Durham, though taken in part of his composition fine, 232l.
Lands, tithes, a mill, and colliery omitted from Lord Lumley's composition.
Sums in the hands of Geo. Clark and Rob. Sharpe, county treasurers.
Sums in the hands of Mr. Ward, of Darlington, Mr. Young, of Witton, and Jane Garthorne, of Hunwick, recusants. [1 page.]
44. ii. Further account of the concealed portion of Lord Lumley's estate. [1½ pages.]
Aug.? 45. Petition of the Holy Island soldiers to Council. We have before you a report on a reference from his Highness about part of our pay which we are to receive from the sale or sequestration of Col. Thos. Haggerston, Papist, of Haggerston, co. Durham. Our pay amounts to 1,430l. 12s. 8d. due in 1645. We have received in rents 491l. 0s. 6d., and from the Exchequer 375l. 8s. 2d., so that 564l. 4s. 0d. is due, for which we petitioned a year ago. We beg help, the money having been so long due, and we spending our pay in attending for it. We beg that Col. Fras. Wren, Lieut.-Col. Paul Hobson, Capt. Gore, and Ald. John Joplin may see us paid, with something for our forbearance since 1645 and our great expenses, and ⅓ to the discoverers, or we shall have to pay it. [1 page.]
Aug. 20. Order thereon in Council that the said arrears of 560l. 8s. 6d., with 40l. charges of prosecution, be paid to Joan Shafto for the soldiers' arrears, out of the proceeds of the said discoveries; that the Treasury Commissioners bring in such of the above-named sums as are presently leviable, and for the remainder, the petitioners are to sue by information in the Exchequer, and the Treasury Commissioners are empowered to pay the said two sums, amounting to 600l. 8s. 6d. Approved 28 August. [I, 78, pp. 99, 100.]
Aug. 20. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Approval of an augmentation of 20l., besides 10l. already granted by the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers, to the minister of Edgware, Middlesex. Approved by the Protector 28 August.
2. Approval of like augmentations to ministers as follows:—
A year.
£ s. d.
Abbots Langley Herts 20 0 0
Sandyacre Derby 10 7 6
Newland Gloucester 20 0 0
Dorking, in addition to 20l. Surrey 30 0 0
Rushford Norfolk 20 0 0
South Cerney Gloucester 30 0 0
Approved by the Protector 28 August.
3. The petition of the Bailiffs, Aldermen, and Commonalty of Great Yarmouth referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report.
4. The draft and declaration for the Army Committee 6 months' assessment to be presented to his Highness as the advice of Council. [See p. 76, infra.] Approved 22 August, as certified by the Lord President.
5. Scobell reports from the Committee on instructions to County Commissioners for examining Public faith, and instructions to Commissioners to whom returns of Public faith are to be made, several drafts of instructions in 2 papers, which were read, approved, and to be presented to his Highness.
8. Desborow, Skippon, Mulgrave, Lord Deputy, Lisle, and Strickland to propose fit Commissioners for examining Public faith due to those in the several counties, and also to be a Committee in London to whom the returns shall be made to, to report them to Council.
10. On consideration of a paper signed by Lord Nieuport, order that a pass be granted to Justus Van Geel, picture drawer of Rotterdam, and one of his Excellency's domestic servants, to travel in England and Wales, and draw "lineations of landscapes, without let or molestation." With the pass, dated 28 August. [I. 114, p. 91.]
12. The report from the Committee of Council on the desires of Sir Wm. Waller [see 13 August 1657], for exempting the prizage wines from paying customs, to be reconsidered next sitting.
14. The petition of Sir Paul Davis, and Alderman Hooke's report thereon, to be considered next sitting.
15. The reports from the Committee of Council on petitions to be considered next Tuesday.
16. Mr. Att.-General to consider the draft produced of a deed from Lord Maynard for lands in Dean Forest, for his Highness's and the State's use, and so to prepare it as to secure the title, and to report.
17. Major Wade, out of the proceeds of the ironworks in Dean Forest, to provide 15,000l. for Lord Maynard, on his perfecting his assurance as Mr. Att.-General shall direct.
18. Order on report from Col. John Clarke and Capt. Hatsell, on a reference of 10 March last on the petition of Lieut. Col. Hunkyn, Governor of Scilly Isles, and his proposal to have 300l. spent in fortifying the works and castle, and repairing carriages there, that a warrant be issued to the Army Committee to pay Edw. Swift 300l., to be given to Hunkyn on account for the above purpose. Approved 28 August.
19. On report from the Deputy Governor, Bailiff, and Procurators of Jersey, and Dr. Philip Carteret, on reference of 13 November 1656, concerning the Court of Billet—that they find it a useful and necessary court, concerning mobiliary and personal causes, which cannot be properly handled in the Courts of Heritage and Cattell; and that though it has only been so named for 70 years, the court is of very ancient date, and abuses, which have become real grievances, have crept in, which are specified in the report;—Order,
(1.) That all rents held in propriety, with arrears and dependencies, be reduced to the Court of Cattell, and there treated, according to the Act of 17 Oct. 1587, and the Acts of judgment of that court be continued 29 years, according to the custom of Normandy, and that court be kept next in order to the Court of Heritage, and that the judgments of the Court of Billet be in force 10 years.
(2.) That the superfluous delays in the Court of Billet, especially concerning those condemned in Court, be shortened.
(3.) That the executions of the Court of Cattell be performed by the proper officers, who are to have such salaries as were anciently allowed, and are to report all seizures to the Viscount, or Denunciator, that sale may be made.
(4.) That the fees of the Viscount and Denunciator be reduced to five sous for adjournments and significations of orders from bailiffs, likewise for sale of goods, and nine sous for all seizures and executions upon goods, and that the greffier have no more than 12 deniers tournois and 5 sous for a search.
(5.) As in the Court of Cattell causes are to be called by the several advocates, the causes are to be stinted to 5 sous for every default, till sentence, and on sentence the advocate to receive 9 sous.
(6.) That care be taken, in all other personal and mobiliary causes heretofore in cognizance of the Extraordinary Court, that no exorbitance above the limit of 3 sous a cause creep in; that every cause be set down into the Billet in presence of the party, according to its order, with the number in the margin, and every billet numbered, and that a roll of the allye, actors, and defendants, set down by two and two, be hung up at the door every court day, that time may not be lost by people attending unnecessarily for their causes. The Governor, bailiff, &c., to see this order executed. The Protector's approval certified 27 August. [I. 78, pp. 101–103.]
Aug. 20.
Whitehall.
President Lawrence to the Earl of Rutland. His Highness having referred Thos. Lock's petition to Council, and they to a Committee, they have ordered you a copy of the petition, that you may know of it, and address the Committee with all convenient speed, if you see cause. [I. 77, p. 978.]
Aug. 20. Instructions for Commissioners in the country for examining Public faith bills:—
1. At your first meeting, you are to send warrants to all persons within the county or town in your commission that had authority to give public faith, their treasurers and clerks, to bring in their books of accounts.
2. You are to agree on your times and places of meeting, and post the same in public places a week before your second meeting, that those holding Public Faith Bills may bring them in.
3. You are to see if such bills are signed by authorised persons or are counterfeit, and you may examine on oath the said persons as to their signatures.
4. Of such bills as you find real, and given for money or goods advanced according to propositions made in 1642, or for the 1/5 or 1/20 part paid in, for which public faith was promised, or for money advanced on any Act, you are to make an entry of the date, person's name, subscriber's name, and date of Act, &c., on which the same was advanced.
5. You are to examine whether the persons holding such bills have remained faithful to Parliament; if they have shewn any kind of disaffection, you are to signify the same, reject the bills, and certify in a distinct list the bills rejected, together with the cause.
6. You shall compare all bills with the treasurer's or other books of accounts, for the better discovery of the truth.
7. You may examine on oath any producing bills as to whether they are the original lenders, and if they have not assigned, doubled, or received some satisfaction for the same, and if the bill is true and original; and you may similarly examine any assignee producing bills from the original lender.
8. You are to return to the persons appointed therefor an alphabetical list of the bills, with particulars whether the loan was freely made on the propositions, what was paid for 1/5 and 1/20, with the times of interest, where interest is allowed, noting also where any particular way of satisfaction is prescribed. You are to certify in a distinct list the bills claimed by original lenders, and the bills claimed by assignment, with their respective sums.
9. If any empowered to receive money on public faith state that their books are lost, you may examine them on oath to discover the truth of the matter.
10. If anyone presents a counterfeit bill, you are to apprehend and carry him before some justice of peace, to be bound over to the next assize or quarter sessions, and return us the names of all such.
11. You may send for and examine on oath any persons you think able to give information for discovery of truth, finding out of fraud, &c.
12. If you require any further authority in executing this office, you are to let us know.
13. You are to observe these and any other instructions we may send you. [I. 78, pp. 93–96.]
Instructions for a Committee to whom the returns of the public faith shall be made:—
1. You shall give notice to the treasurers and registrar-accountant, and controllers for the sale of Bishops', Deans and Chapters', and King's lands, feefarm rents, and lands forfeited for treason, of the time and place of your sitting, and ask them to bring alphabetical lists of all Public Faith Bills for money or goods advanced on the propositions of 1642, or for the 1/5 or 1/20 part paid in, or other loans.
2. You shall receive all returns made by the County Commissioners, and examine if the bills they report have been doubled upon any Act, and if so, certify them in a separate list. If not, make them into alphabetical lists, according to the counties and titles under which they are ranked.
3. You shall have the lists entered in a book alphabetically according to counties, with the names of the parties and the sums lent and dates, and certify it under your hands to be exhibited to Parliament, viz., those on the propositions of 1642, those for 1/5 and 1/20, and those who lent money, plate, horses, &c., on any other Act or Ordinance for which they had public faith, expressing those on which interest is to be paid, and those for whom special satisfaction was assigned, also distinguishing between original lenders and assignees.
4. You may appoint such clerks as you think necessary, and a doorkeeper and messenger.
5. If you require further authority for discovery of fraud, you are to let us know.
6. You are to faithfully observe these and all other instructions from his Highness and Council. [I. 78, pp. 96–98.]
Aug. 20. An Order and Declaration of his Highness and Privy Council appointing an Army and Receipts General Committee for the first 6 months' assessment of the 35,000l. for England, beginning 24 June 1657:—
Whereas, by the Act of this present Parliament for an assessment of 35,000l. a month on England, 6,000l. on Scotland, and 9,000l. on Ireland, for 3 years from 24 June 1657, for maintenance of the army and navy, it is ordered that the directions in the Act for 60,000l. for 3 months, from March to June 1657, and the powers given therein, shall continue till the 3 years' assessment be collected, by which Act it is provided that if the moneys raised cannot be paid into the Exchequer in the limited time, the Protector and Council may have them paid as the monthly assessments were formerly managed:—It is ordered that, as it will be needful to assign some of these moneys for payment of the forces in the respective counties, John Clerk, Rich. Lucy, Edw. Horsman, Jas. Phillipps, Gervaise Bennett, John Hildesley, and Col. Adam Baynes, or any 3 of them, be a Committee for the Army, with the powers of the former Army Committee, and issue forth the said assessment and all moneys appointed for the army before 25 December next, and that John Blackwell, jun., and Rich. Deane, Treasurers-at-War and Receivers General, obey their orders in the issuing of the said moneys. The acquittance of the Receivers General to be a discharge for the receivers of counties. [I. 78, pp. 978–980.]
Aug. 20.
Naseby, Downs.
46. Gen. E. Montague to Wm. Jessop. The Speaker's Company importuned me to write to you about their plunder due from the galleon that was taken, but from which they were debarred by not being permitted to leave their own ship, and they have addressed Council thereon. I know not whether to give them money, as it would dissatisfy more than it would content, and bring like applications from the Bridgewater, Taunton, &c., but a reasonable gratification to the whole fleet would be very acceptable, just, and fit. Meanwhile, no one knows of my writing this but Sir R. Stayner. [1 page.] Enclosing,
46. i. Sir Rich. Stayner to [Montague.] On 9 September 1656, the Jesu Mary and Joseph, being surprised by the Speaker, under my command, there was in the gunroom a large quantity of plate, some in pigs and some wrought, which formerly belonged to the seamen who took her prize. But on account of the great quantity, the evil example, and the number of prisoners on board, to prevent embezzlement, I restrained our men from going on board, so that many of them got little or no plunder. Much of the plate was taken out in presence of Rear-Adm. Bourne and 7 captains. 17 August1657. [1 page.]
Aug. 20/30.
Essones.
Lord Jermyn to Prince Rupert. I commend to you the bearer, Col. Bamfield, who is going to Germany to find a livelihood in the motions of that country. If it be easy for you to do for him what he proposes, you will very much oblige me. His sufferings and persecutions entitle him to relief.
We are on our way to Bourbon for recovery of the Queen's health, which has lately been very ill, but is now much amended. My long silence has not arisen from want of zeal. [1 page, copy endorsed by Nicholas "the original I delivered to Lord Chancellor." Flanders correspondence.]
[Aug. 25.] 47. Petition of Rob. Leighton, for Edinburgh College, to the Protector. On 8 August 1654, you passed an Ordinance for better support of universities in Scotland, and conferred on Glasgow and Aberdeen colleges a liberal annuity for the help of poor hopeful students, and expressed your intention to extend the like bounty, on application, to Edinburgh. I was thereon encouraged to come to London, had access to you, and represented the situation of the college, its number of students, larger than in any other college in the nation, and its poverty, being a late foundation, and with little provision for poor scholars. Some of the University Commissioners then in London spoke to you thereon, and you ordered the Clerk of Council to draw up another clause for Edinburgh; but afterwards you did not think the time fitting for its insertion, as Parliament was sitting.
I now renew my request, and can offer a way by which it may be done without prejudice to the State. The most renowned persons in the world delight in pious and generous actions. [1 page.]
[Aug. 25.] 48. Report thereon, signed by Fleetwood and Strickland, that 200l. a year should be settled on the college from chapelries and deaneries in Scotland. [1 page.]
Aug. 25. Order in Council according to the above report. Approved 28 August. [I. 78, p. 106.]
Aug. 25. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order on complaint that Hester Hobson, when riding on the Sabbath with—Collier, to a meeting-place for God's worship at Sunderland, was stayed by George Lilburne, a justice of peace, her horse seized, and refused her save on payment of 20s., contrary to the Act for better observation of the Sabbath,—that the High Sheriff of the county and Lilburne examine the matter, and certify.
2. Strickland to give direction concerning the entertainment of Don Francisco de Mello, ambassador from Portugal, and to arrange with Sir Oliver Fleming that he be lodged in Sir Abr. Williams's house, and that it be made ready for him.
3. Strickland and Mr. Secretary to speak with Nich. Bond as to whether he can execute the office of steward to the said ambassador, and report.
4. Strickland and Wolsley to receive and conduct him to his lodgings.
5. 300l. to be paid from Council's contingencies for the ambassador's diet, for which the steward is to account to the Auditors of Imprests, and present their certificate of the state thereof to Council.
6. To advise an order to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Frost 500l. on account for Council's contingencies, that he may be able at once to pay the 300l. ordered above.
7. To allow the ambassador a diet of 50 dishes for the first and second course, and 30 of fruit and sweetmeats for each meal, with a convenient allowance for the tables of his attendants.
8. The said ambassador to be entertained at 7 meals at the State's charge.
9. The stewards to provide such plate as is required.
10. 12 of Council's messengers to attend to carry up the dishes and wait at table.
11. Credit to be given for 500l. a-piece to Maj.-Gen. Jephson and Phil. Meadows to be taken beyond sea, for their respective negotiations as envoys to Sweden and Denmark; and Mr. Noel to take bills of exchange for their receipt of 500l. a-piece, to be repaid out of Council's contingencies at the times that shall be agreed.
12. Maj.-Gen. Wm. Jephson's allowance as envoy to Sweden to be 160l. a-month.
13. On Mr. Secretary's informing Council of Phil. Meadows's desire, that having purchased a recusant's estate, he may be allowed to compound for 2/3 payable to the State during his recusancy, the 2/3 being 97l. a year,—order that Mr. Secretary, Strickland, and Rous consider it, and report.
14. On the Lord Deputy's report on the petition of Joachim Potter, one of the Swedish commissaries here, for leave to sell 10,800 lbs. of elephants' teeth and 300 gold marks, brought from Guinea, in the Johnsburgh (belonging to the Swedish Company of Africa), which put into Dover for safety, on account of the war between Sweden and Denmark,—order that he be allowed to take his ship and dispose of her lading where he likes.
15. The Committee on the papers concerning Ministers in Scotland to prepare their report, and bring it in at Council's next meeting.
16. Col. Jones, Lord Deputy, Strickland, Skippon, Mulgrave, and Pickering to consider what should be done on the late Act of Parliament for settling the postage of England, Scotland, and Ireland, the rent to be reserved, and the number of years of the demise, and to report.
17. The petition of Sir Wm. Scott, of Ardress (Scotland), referred to Pickering, Jones, and Lord Deputy, to consider Council's power concerning the matter prayed.
18. The Customs' Commissioners to allow to pass free to Ireland, for use of his Highness's Council in Scotland, (sic) a large quantity of books, stationery, &c., of which particulars are given.
19. Order, in thankful remembrance of the memorable mercies vouchsafed to England in the victories of 3 Sept. 1650 at Dunbar, and on 3 Sept. 1651 at Worcester, that next Sept. 3 be observed as a day of public thanksgiving in London and Westminster, and all places within the late lines of communication and weekly bills of mortality, and all other places where the notice shall come, not doubting but that all ministers will readily join in a duty to which God has led them by redoubled providences.
21. The Customs' Commissioners to suffer the goods of Maj.-Gen. Jephson and Phil. Meadows, envoys to Sweden and Denmark, to pass custom free.
22. Maj.-Gen. Jephson, having his despatches, attended Council to take his leave.
23. Sir Chas. Wolsley took the Counsellor's oath, before the Lord President and Desborow. [I. 78, pp. 104–108.]
Aug. 25.
Whitehall.
President Lawrence to the Commander-in-chief of the fleet off the Spanish coast. Out of the 50,000l. payable to us on the Portuguese treaty, 600l. remains in Mr. Bird's hands. We have allowed him 300l. for his services, and told him to pay the rest to you. We desire you to forward him the enclosed, and receive the money from him, and to employ it as you judge necessary for the fleet. [I. 77, p. 981.] Enclosing,
i. President Lawrence to Wm. Bird, merchant at Lisbon, to like effect. The 300l. is allowed for his service in receiving 20,000l., part of the 50,000l. 24 August 1657. [I. 77, p. 981.]
Aug. 25. President Lawrence to the High Sheriff of co. Durham and Maj.-Gen. Robt. Lilburne. We have this day received complaint that Hester Hobson, who was lately riding on the Sabbath Day with one Collier to a meeting-place at Sunderland, was—contrary to the late Act of Parliament for better observation of the Lord's Day—stopped by Geo. Lilburne, a justice of peace for co. Durham, her horse seized and detained, and herself obliged to walk to the meeting; and that the horse was refused to her unless she paid 20s. We desire you to examine the matter, and report. [I. 77, p. 982.]
Aug. 26. 49. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. I have been into Hampshire, and met the Provost at Sherborne. College news. There is a general malady in most adjacent counties, for which we kept a fast last week. It rages much. Some call it a malign or putrid fever. [2/3 page.]
Aug. 27. 50. Petition of the inhabitants of Bromfield, Essex, to the Protector and Council, for an augmentation to Wm. Alchorne, whom they have obtained as pastor, having been some time without minister, he having only the small tithes, worth 45l. a year. 11 signatures. [1 page.]
Aug. 27. Order thereon to recommend an augmentation of 30l. a year to the Trustees for Ministers. Approved 28 August. [I. 78, p. 110.]
Aug. 27. 51. Petition of Col. Rob. Brandling, prisoner in Hull Castle, to the Protector. I raised a regiment at my own charge, and served under Lord Halifax, for which 1,500l. is due to me. I sent horses and arms to your army, on their march to Worcester, and have always been faithful, yet I have suffered near 3 years' imprisonment, on a false suspicion that I was privy to the late insurrection in Yorkshire. My health is thereby impaired, and my estate so wasted that my wife and 4 children are brought to great want. I beg you, "as you are God's lieutenant amongst us," for their sakes to restore me to liberty, on security for my future deportment, judging my long suffering an expiation for my supposed offence. [1 page.]
Aug. 27. Order thereon that he be allowed to go to and reside in his house at Learely, West Riding of Yorkshire, on security to attempt nothing against his Highness or the present government. [I. 78, p. 111.]
Aug. 27. 52. Petition of Sir Nich. Crisp to the Protector. On 17th July last, a Capt. Lendall came to my house in Quekes, Isle of Thanet, with armed men, broke open the doors, secured my servants, took 400l. in plate, money, and goods, and took my father, Hen. Crisp, and me to the sea side, to carry us both away. They then forced me to promise to pay them 1,000l. in Flanders within a month, carried my father to Bruges for security, and demand 2,000l. for his ransom, threatening to use him strangely unless paid, and they do not allow him to converse with any, nor to write without their knowledge.
I find that of the Spanish prisoners in Chelsea College, no one or two are of quality to ransom me and my father, except the 4 named in a paper annexed, 2 being merchants, 1 a gunner, and 1 a soldier; they are willing to endeavour the exchange, if they may go to Flanders, on security to return if they cannot procure Mr. Crisp's freedom by exchange. I beg your direction, as I cannot pay the ransom moneys without mortgaging or selling my lands, to my irreparable prejudice.
I beg leave for these prisoners to go to Flanders, or for my father to treat there for his exchange with other Spanish prisoners, or for such other relief as you think fit. [1 page.]
Aug. 27.
Whitehall.
53. Order thereon that the said 4 persons, viz., Sebastian Garcia, Francisco de Salazar, Martin de Murria, and Antonio Nogaler be allowed to pass to Flanders, on security in 3,000l. to the Admiralty Commissioners to return in 2 months if they do not procure the exchange; and that Garcia have liberty to go abroad forthwith, with a keeper, to get the required security. [1 page. Also I. 78, pp. 120, 121.]
Aug. 27. Council. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order on Mr. Secretary's report concerning the post of steward to the Ambassador from Portugal, that Clement Kinnersley execute that office, as Bond's health prevents his so doing.
2. The goods of Meadows and Jephson to be allowed to pass, both custom and excise free.
3. Strickland reports his Highness's consent to the order concerning the Billet Court of Jersey.
4. Order on report from the Committee on the Postage [see 25 Aug. 1657] that a lease be granted thereof to Sec. Thurloe, at 10,000l., in quarterly payments, with clause of security in default of payment; he to be at all charges, take no greater rates of postage than expressed in the Act, and send all Government letters free. The grant to be for as many years as his Highness thinks fit, not exceeding 11, or one life. Annexing,
54. Report alluded to, signed by Jones and Strickland [1 page.]
5. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to allow Morgan Jones, minister of New Castle, co. Glamorgan, an augmentation of 40l. a year. Approved 28 August.
7. Also an augmentation of 50l. to the minister of Whitchurch, co. Chester. Approved 28 August.
8. The petition and case of Hen. Moore, Bart., referred to Sydenham, Strickland, Wolsley, Rous, Lisle, and Mulgrave, to report.
12. Mr. Rolle, minister of Thisleworth, to have leave to preach and lecture weekly in Hounslow Chapel.
13. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to make up the augmentation granted to the lecturer at New Brentford, Middlesex, to 100l. Approved 28 August.
14. Approval of the orders of the said Trustees for uniting the following parishes:—
Over Compton and Nether Compton, co. Dorset.
Lufton, Mountague, and Sockdennis, co. Somerset, except Lord Arundel's lands and Chester mead, now Sir Hen. Berkeley's, and 12 acres in Sockdennis parish, united to Ivelchester.
Rushton St. Peter's and Rushton All Saints, co. Northampton, except lands specified in St. Peter's, which are to be united to Rothwell.
Llanbeder, Silian, Bettus, Bledras, Llangibby, and Keston, co. Cardigan, provided the interest of the present incumbents be not prejudiced.
Cardigan, Verwick, Llangodmore, and the chapelries of Mount and Leckryd, with Aberporth and Llandogway parishes, all co. Cardigan, certain lands excepted, and with the same proviso as to incumbents.
Horsenden and Risborough co. Bucks.
The two vicarages in Bangor parish co. Carnarvon.
Birlingham Andrew and Birlingham Peter co. Norfolk.
Pudding Norton, Colekirk, and Oxwick. Do.
Deepham and Hackford Do.
Bintrey and Twiford Do.
Louth and Stutton co. Lincoln.
Hameringham and Scrafield Do.
West Lavington and Little Cheverell. co Wilts.
Goring and Ferring with Kingston. co. Sussex.
Middleton and Felpham Do.
Middleton and Fordley co. Suffolk.
Byfleet and Wisley co. Surrey.
Approved by the Protector 28 August.
15. Approval of the following orders made by the said Trustees, viz.:—
Union of lands in Rushton St. Peter's, co. Northampton, to form a parish with Rushworth.
Longload chapelry, Martock, co. Somerset, to be divided from Martock and made a distinct parish.
East Preston parish, co. Sussex, to be divided from Ferring and united to Rustington.
Davenport and Somerford Booths, co. Chester, to be divided from Astbury and united to Swettenham.
Redborough to be divided from Minchin-Hampton, co. Gloucester, and made a distinct parish.
Harthill, co. Chester, with the townships of Harthill, Broxton, Bickerton, Larton, Buckley, and Egerton, to be divided from Malpus, and made one parish.
Wardington, Coates and Williamscot villages, co. Oxon, to be severed from Cropready parish (except lands which have always paid to the church and poor of Cropready) and be a distinct parish, but not to prejudice the present incumbent. Approved 28 August.
16. Approval of augmentations granted by the said Trustees of 25l. to the minister of Knutsford, co. Chester, and 19l. to the minister of Thursfield, alias New Chapel, co. Stafford. Approved by the Protector 28 August.
17. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle an augmentation of 50l. on the minister of Middlewich, co. Chester. Approved 16 September.
18. Order on Mr. Secretary's report concerning the gold and elephants' teeth brought by the Johnsburgh from Guinea—that those concerned with the gold dispose of it to their best advantage, provided it all be brought to the Mint to be coined, and that the Swedish Commissary's desire concerning the elephants' teeth be considered next Tuesday.
19. On report from the Committee on reference of Jane Baker's claim to the 2 swords bought of Col. Humfreys—that they were delivered her by the Trustees for Sale of the late King's goods in lieu of 50l. due to her; that she lent them to be used for the service, and being in the custody of Col. John Humfreys, at his death, Col. Humfreys, the son, took them, and alleges that his father paid 50l. for the State, and that Council, not knowing Jane Baker's right, bought the swords of the son for 50l.—order that Humfreys pay Mrs. Baker the said 50l., or in default, that it be deducted from moneys due to him for service in Jamaica.
20. On Mr. Secretary's information that a pamphlet called "A Letter of address to the Protector," &c., which is very derogatory to his Highness's honour, has been printed by Hen. Eversden, a stationer, who denies any knowledge of the author—order that the Serjeantat-arms take Eversden into custody, and Mr. Secretary, Wolsley, Jones, Strickland, and Sydenham consider the business, and report.
21. To advise the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle an augmentation of 20l. on the minister of Sherborne, co. Dorset, to make up 100l. a year with the 80l. he already has. Approved 28 August.
22. Also to settle 50l. on the minister of Ewrin, co. Dorset. Approved 28 August.
23. The clerks of Council to remind the Lord President to read the letter from the Council in Scotland on the Earl of Tweedale's behalf next Tuesday.
24. The petition of Hannah Ewell for herself and her 5 fatherless children, referred to Strickland, Pickering, Sydenham, and Wolsley, to report.
25. Mr. Scobell to present to Council next Tuesday the state of the account from Maj.-Gen. Kelsey and Capt. Hen. Hatsell of 400l. and 5,000l. received for pay of 6 foot regiments sent to France under Sir John Reynolds, and their contingent charges.
26, 27. Order on a letter from John Maidstone, steward of the household, to pay to him 5,380l. 7s. 11d. from the money designed for the forces in Ireland, or the first that comes into the Exchequer, on account for the expenses of his Highness's household, and request for a warrant accordingly.
28. The business of his Highness's household expenses to be considered next Tuesday.
30. 55. The Admiralty Commissioners to select from the Spanish prisoners lately brought to Chelsea College a fit exchange for Capt. John Beere, now prisoner at St. Sebastians, and to give warrant to the keeper of the College to give the person selected liberty to go and effect their exchange, on security to return and give himself up if he fail to effect it.
31. Gen. Desborow's regiment of horse being ordered to march forthwith into Scotland, the Army Committee are to issue warrants to the Treasurers-at-war to pay them out of the 6 months' assessment up to 29 Sept. next. Approved 28 August.
32. Order on report on the petition of Mary, widow of Lieut.-Col. Chris. Ennis [see 5 May 1657], that 6s. a week be allowed her from the Committee for Savoy Hospital and Ely House. Approved 28 August. Annexing,
56. Report alluded to by Fleetwood and Strickland. [1 page.]
34. On petition of Wm. Howkins that he was employed by the Trustees for sale of the late King's goods for getting the first half of 9,717l. 18s. 6d. assigned to the creditors and servants from fines of confiscated persons in Scotland, and on an account from the said Trustees, and a report from Sydenham, Mr. Vaughan, and Mr. Evershed, who examined it, shewing that 81l. was due to him, for the service, of which he has had but 41l.,—order that Hum. Jones, treasurer of the fund, pay Howkins the remaining 40l. Approved 28 August.
35. Order that Cols. Sydenham and Jones consider how the residue of the moiety of 9,717l. 18s. 6d. in Hum. Jones' hands, assigned to the creditors and servants of the late King, may be distributed with most equality, and report. Annexing,
57. Report thereon that from 4,853l. 19s. 3d. being ½ of the sum, there has been paid 3,929l. 11s. 11d., and there remains 924l. 7s. 4d., and particulars of 64 cases still remaining unpaid. With many notes in shorthand. [5½ pages.]
57. i. Note of 12 cases still unpaid, which should be taken into compassion; total, 366l. 12s. 0d. [1 page.]
36. The report from the Admiralty Commissioners concerning the regulation of the hospitals to be considered next Tuesday.
37. Also the report on M. Blondeau's case.
39. Mr. Jessop to have leave to go into the country for a fortnight, on special business for his Highness.
40. Wolsley, Sydenham, Strickland, Jones, and Lisle to see how a matter depending before Council, on an appeal from a judgment in Guernsey in a cause between Thos. Symons and his wife and John Fautart now stands, and report. [I. 78, pp. 109–124.]
Aug. 27.
Whitehall.
President Lawrence to the Council in Scotland. On 23 March 1653–4 his Highness and Council passed an Ordinance that from April 1 1654 till 10 Nov. 1657, an imposition of 4d. Scotch should be laid on every Scotch pint of ale or beer brewed or sold at Edinburgh, to discharge the public debt to the corporation, which the magistrates of the city were authorised to collect, and to keep an account of, to show whenever demanded; you are desired to learn the state of this business, what money has been received, and how employed, and report speedily. [I. 77, p. 982.]
Aug. 27./Sept. 6. Sec. Thurloe to [Amb. Lockhart]. His Highness has been 14 days at Hampton Court, a little intending his health. He is troubled for a hurt Lord Richard has received by a fall from his horse in hunting. His horse fell with him and broke his thigh, and put his knee on the same side out of joint, but both were well set 4 days since, and he is free from fever. [Extract, French correspondence.]
Aug. 28. Approval by the Protector of 44 orders, 14–27 Aug. [I. 78, pp. 124–127.]
Aug. 28. Note of a petition referred to the Committee for Petitions of the Marquis of Argyle, for the benefit of an order of his Highness and Council of 11 Sept. 1656, to receive ½ the excise of wine and strong waters in Scotland, not exceeding 3,000l. in one year, until paid 12,110l. 13s. 4d. in lieu of 145,400l. Scots granted him by Act of the Estates of Scotland, and for the Council of Scotland to issue warrants to the Excise Commissioners to pay. With report of 7 Aug. 1657 in favour of the yearly payment, the farm notwithstanding, and order thereon 27 Aug. for the following letter. [I. 93, No. 1; 78. p. 123.]
Aug. 28.
Whitehall.
President Lawrence to the President and Council in Scotland. You are to obey the order of 11 Sept. last in favour of the Marquis of Argyle; and as on 17 Feb. last, Council allowed his assignment of 1,000l. of the first moneys received from the excise to Col. Ralph Cobbett, you are to direct the collectors to pay it to him according to the said order, which we enclose. Approved 20 August. [I. 77, p. 982.]
Aug. 28./Sept. 7.
Blois.
58. Edw. Norris to Williamson. I am too busy to write now, but I will soon. [½ page, French.]
Aug. 29.
The George, Downs.
59. Capt. Robt. Clarke to the Admiralty Commissioners. Our General having received intelligence from a vessel plying off the North Foreland that they had sighted 60 sail of Hollanders, with a flagship, he called most of the commanders together, when it was agreed to set sail at 2 the next morning. As the day lightened, we saw the fleet at the back of the Goodwin, but 2 of the scouts' frigates having spoken with some of them, and found they were merchant ships with their convoys, the General sent me and 3 others to return to the Downs, while he stood south-west with the rest of the fleet.
I have delivered the tobacco left on board by Gen. Blake to the Sub-commissioners at Dover. A messenger has come here from Sec. Thurloe to enquire after. Maj.-Gen. Jephson, who was expected in the Downs to take ship, but as yet I cannot give any account of him. The man is perplexed because he cannot hear of the gentleman. [1 page.]
Aug. 31.
St. Cleer's Farm, Droxford Parish, Hampshire.
60. Wm. Rowe to Col. Edw. Salmon, Admiralty Commissioner. A friend of mine in Scotland prays me to move you that if Troutbeck, who it is heard is nigh death, should die, you would admit one Fish to succeed him as surgeon in your regiment. Fish has now some small business to do in Heriot's Hospital, Edinburgh, and my friend has experienced his ability in surgery. Capt. Drake, of his Highness's foot regiment in London, who receives and opens my letters during my absence here, has sent away a letter he found enclosed to your lady, I suppose to move her to mediate with you for Fish, who is well known to him to be a deserving man. My uncle, Alderman Allen (with whom I am staying), will add a word when he has done hearing a business referred to him from the country, which he thinks of representing to the Admiralty Commissioners or to Commissioner Willoughby, as a very great injury to some of the people in this country, and a most dishonourable thing to the State, viz.:—
That some of the waggons or carts which carried the Spanish plate from Portsmouth to London have not been paid, and thereupon suits are commenced by the people whose teams went, against their neighbours of the same tithings and hundreds, who were chargeable as well as they, but got one entire team to go for the rest, and engaged if the State did not pay them, they would each pay their proportion. Some having been paid and not others, those who are unpaid sue their neighbours on this promise, and they, to stave it off, defend the suits, so there is money spent on both sides, more than the pay of the carts would come to, which seems a shameful thing. The countrymen say it comes by Commander Willoughby wanting money to clear them all; his instrument, or some paymaster at Portsmouth tells them they should have come in time, whereas they had no time set, and applied as soon as they understood how the course of it was, and now they are answered that the account is closed, or there is not money. I suppose a small enablement, or a word of direction to Mr. Willoughby to send to his instrument to clear those who are paid but in part, and pay off wholly those who are yet unpaid, would take away this clamour and scandal upon the public, as well as the discord among neighbours. As a well wisher to the reputation of the State, and to peace amongst men, I am bold to give you this hint. With a note by Alderman Fras. Allen that, being deeply affected with the above, out of public respect as well as of common equity, he cannot but earnestly request favour and care for the clearing of these poor men, which he has persuaded them will speedily be done. [1 page.]
Aug. 31./Sept. 10.
Blois.
61. Edw. Norris to Williamson. Judge of my desire to see you when I ask you not to send my letter of change here, which would cause a delay of 3 weeks, but to endorse it in my name, and get it cashed. We hope to be with you on Friday week. [1 page, French.]
Aug. ? 62. Petition of Wm. Towerson to Richard, Lord Cromwell, Chancellor of Oxford University, for a letter to the warden and fellows of All Souls', to admit his son Gabriel (who has studied 8 years, taken his M.A. degree, and devoted himself to the ministry) as a competitor for one of the vacant fellowships, and recommending him for the preference if of equal capacity. With certificate by Sir Chris. Pack on behalf of both father and son. [1 sheet.]