|
May 1.
Westminster. |
1. Step. Hulse to Jos. Williamson. Thanks for your care of my
son. I trust he will not give you occasion to complain of him
again, but if so, hide it not from me. I send a letter to him.
Have a strict hand over him. I will be with you at Whitsuntide.
[1 page.] |
| May 1. |
2. R. Rawlinson to J. Williamson. Suggestions for treatment of
young Knowler and Mr. Lenthouse, left at Oxford in Williamson's
charge during Rawlinson's absence. [1 page.] Enclosing, |
|
2. i. Exhortation to young men to persevere in their studies.
[Latin, 4 pages.] |
May 1/11.
London. |
3. — to M. Gouquelinan, St. Honoré, Paris. The letter to the
French Ambassador was carefully delivered. You are surprised at
my silence, but were you here to see the last strange revolution, you
would acknowledge " an Englishman could not well mind anything
else. Good God, do the same people inhabit England that were in
it 10 or 20 years ago ? Believe me, I know not well whether I am
in England or no, or whether I dream." |
|
This day the two Houses of Parliament received a letter from the
King, brought by Sir John Grenville, at the reading of which the
members of Parliament stood up bare, and votes were passed of
thanks to the King, to whom 50,000l. was speedily to be sent; that
the late King's death was tyrannical and illegal; that the government should be by King, Lords, and Commons; and that Charles II.
was the undoubted heir to the crown, and should be brought in with
honour and safety. Parliament is to sit again this afternoon, to
nominate a Committee of Lords and Commons to be sent to him.
[1 page.] |
| May 1. |
4. Order passed nem. con. by the House of Commons, that a
Committee be appointed to prepare an answer to the King's letter,
expressing the joyful sense of the House of his gracious offers,
their humble thanks for them, their professions of loyalty and duty,
and their intention to give speedy answer to his gracious proposals.
Also that his letter to the House, and that to Gen. Monk, with the
enclosed declaration, be forthwith printed and published. Signed
by Wm. Jessop, clerk. [½ page, printed.] Prefixing. |
|
4. i. The King to the Speaker. We can think of no better mode
of redressing the evils of the nation, than by appealing to
you. None of our predecessors have more esteemed
Parliaments, and we consider them a vital part of the
constitution, but the King's authority is necessary for the
preservation of Parliaments, and therefore we doubt not
you will be jealous of our honour. |
|
We send you a declaration, which we have also sent to
the House of Peers, in confidence that you will not abuse
it. We look on you as dispassionate men and true
patriots. |
|
As to the Protestant religion, we have given proof that
neither the unkindness of those that hold it, nor the
civilities of those of a contrary profession, can make us
swerve from it. We have left it to you to provide
indemnity for those who have invaded each other's rights,
and we would have justice impartially administered.
We will strive with you to make the kingdom happy, and
we hope that our subjects will be the better from our
experience of other countries, and what we have seen and
suffered. Breda, 4/14 April 1660. [5 pages, printed.
Also printed in Parl. Hist., Vol. XXII., pp. 241–244.] |
|
4. ii. The King to Gen. Monk. We would not aggravate, but
rather bury the memory of our being dispossessed by
force of our rights, and would owe our restoration to
our subjects at home, rather than to foreign assistance;
therefore we send to you, who are able to prevent a war,
to use the Army in defence of religion, the King, Parliament, liberty, and law, and vindicate the trust which
others have betrayed. |
|
We send a declaration to show that we desire no
effusion of blood. |
|
You know that power, unless supported by justice,
cannot make a nation happy, and we hope you will
bring the blessing of peace and reconciliation on King
and people, and perform your duty to us and your
native country. Breda, 4/14 April 1660. [Printed,
4 pages. Also printed in Parl. Hist., Vol. XXII.,
pp. 244–246.] |
|
4. iii. Declaration by the King to all his subjects. While we do
not give up the hope of obtaining our rights, we daily
pray that it may be with as little blood and damage as
possible. And lest fear of punishment should lead
any to oppose our restoration, we grant a free and
general pardon, to all who return to their loyalty in
40 days, unless specially excepted. None shall be
reproached for the past, and we will be advised by a
free Parliament, which shall decide all questions of
controverted estates. There shall also be full liberty of
conscience. Breda, 4/14 April 1660. [3½ pages, printed.
Also printed in Parl. Hist., Vol. XXII., pp. 239, 240.] |
May 1.
Westminster. |
5. Harbottle Grimstone, Speaker, on behalf of the House, to the
King. We your loyal subjects, thank you for your gracious
expressions, and bless God who put these thoughts into your heart,
and has delivered you from so many dangers. |
|
You esteem Parliaments, and we will never depart from our
fidelity to you. Parliament itself was violated before the horrid
act against the late King, which we cannot think of "without such
a detestation and abhorrency as we want words to express it." But
it was only the act of some few ambitious and bloody persons;
true professors of religion, the nation itself, and Parliament were
innocent of it. |
|
We thank you for your reconciling thoughts, and your wish to
make the kingdom happy by the advancement of religion, securing
of laws, liberties, and estates, and removing jealousies and animosities. We shall apply ourselves to these things, and you assure us
that you will be as ready to give as we to receive. We highly
esteem your declining foreign assistance, but trusting to your
people, who open their arms and their hearts to receive you. We
praise God for your remaining true to the Protestant religion, and
trust you will be the glory of kings and joy of your subjects.
With order by the Commons, 14 May, that this letter be printed and
published. [6 pages, printed. Also printed in Parl. Hist., Vol.
XXII., pp. 263–267.] |
| May 1. |
6. Order at a Common Council of London, returning thanks
to the King for his letter and declaration brought in by
Viscount Mordaunt and Sir John Grenville, declaring their ready
submission to his government, in testimony whereof, they have
taken down the arms of the Commonwealth and set up his
Majesty's arms instead. They beg a reply by Lord Mordaunt, and
will speedily send members of their own to wait on him. [1½ pages.]
Prefixing, |
|
6. i. The King to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common
Council of London. During the late revolutions, we
have been much cheered by the loyalty of the city of
London, and by your example, the nation now returns to
the government under which it has been happy hundreds
of years, and throws off the arbitrary power devised to
satisfy the pride and ambition of a few; our desire to
obtain peace without effusion of blood appears by the
enclosed declaration. |
|
We wish the happiness and security of the kingdom to
be grounded on the affection and consent of the subjects.
We would restore the fundamental laws, and show special
kindness to our native city of London, in renewing
their charter, and adding any favours that may increase
their trade, &c. Breda, 4/14 April 1660. [5 pages, 4to.,
printed. Also printed in Parl. Hist., Vol. XXII.,
pp. 247, 248.] |
|
6. ii. Declaration by the King as calendared above. [Printed,
4 to, ½ page.] |
| May 1. |
7. Order in the Common Council that the above letter and
declaration be printed and published. [Printed. 1 page.] |
May 2/12.
Breda. |
8. Warrant by the King to the clerk of the Signet, for a grant
to Wm. Dickinson, gent., of the Office of Clerk of the Works for
life. Signed. [2/3 page.] |
May 4.
Golden Anchor, against Salisbury House. |
9. Ri. Wigmor to Sec. Nicholas. I beg to inform you of my
condition. I leave to your memory my conduct till the Duke of
Buckingham's death. In the beginning of the late wars, I was
captain of the train bands of Hereford, in my own county, and
when Marquis Hertford regained the city from Lord Stamford, he
made me lieut.-colonel. My sufferings for loyalty have been great;
I have often been imprisoned, thrice plundered, sequestered,
trepanned, and decimated. They much tempted me to join them,
which I abhorred; to maintain my family, I solicited some friends'
causes, and lived by my pen, till this happy day of his Majesty's
blessed return. |
|
I beg some place about the Council-table or under you, or as
Master in Chancery. Ambition is at an end, and I will "live
within the rules of his Majesty's pious resolved Government," and
faithfully discharge my trust. [1 page.] |
May 4.
10 p.m. |
10. Robt. Blackborne to [Gen. Montague.] I send a note of
occurrences in Parliament this day (missing). The Satisfaction,
having returned from Hamburg, is ordered to Hull, to convoy some
vessels bound for Dort; the Bradford, having been refitted at
Portsmouth, is appointed to her former station between Portland,
Alderney, and Berry. |
|
Dr. Clargis went hence this morning towards the Downs, in
order to his attending on his Majesty. This night orders were
signed for the release of all Spanish prisoners that are in Chelsea
College, Plymouth, or Exeter, in pursuance of an agreement
between his Excellency and the Marquis of Caracena. [½ page.] |
May 4.
Whitehall. |
11. Order in the Council of State,—Sir Hen. Wright, M.P., being
called in, and reporting that the inhabitants of Harwich have been
at great expense through sick and wounded soldiers and seamen
brought thither for recovery, and have impoverished themselves,
and that many are forced to lie in the streets for lack of accommodation,—that the Admiralty Commissioners consider the business,
and make speedy provision for the soldiers there. [¾ page.] |
May 5.
Whitehall. |
12. Order in the Council of State,—on a letter from the Mayor
of Berwick, about disturbance in the trade at sea on that coast, by
reason of small pirates which lie at the harbour's mouth, so that no
ships dare come in or go out, and the pirates land, and kill cattle
on shore, and carry them on shipboard,—that the Admiralty Commissioners see that the frigate designed for the Northern coast
secure trade into and from these ports. [½ page.] |
May 7.
Whitehall. |
13. Order in the Council of State, that the Admiralty Commissioners consider what Dutch or other foreign ships now employed in
the fleet as men-of-war, but foul and slow, and not so serviceable as
others, may be sold to the best advantage, and report. [½ page.] |
|
14. Like order that the said Commissioners present to Council a
true state of the Navy, and how the charge may be lessened, and
report. [½ page.] |
| May 7. |
15. Order in the Admiralty Committee, on an order of the
Council of State of 5 May, to take care that such standards, flags,
and jacks, be forthwith prepared for the fleet as were in use before
1648, and be sent down with all speed to Gen. Montague, together
with a silk standard, ensign, jack, and such other silk flags as may
complete a suit for the Naseby; also that carvers and painters be
sent down to alter the carved works, according to such directions
as they shall receive from Commissioner Pett, who is ordered by
the Council of State to go down to the General. [2/3 page.] Enclosing, |
|
15. i. Note of 24 silk pendants of from 12 to 30 yards each,
that are to be made by Mr. Young. [Scrap.] |
May 7.
London. |
Levant Company to Sir Thos. Bendish, ambassador at Constantinople. Thanks for your letter relating your efforts to redress the
abuse of false coin, and the impediments therein through the
absence of the Grand Seignior and Vizier, and particularly for
the warrant sent to Smyrna prohibiting its import. We would
willingly redress the abuse you complain of in the Customer, but it
is unseasonable to procure letters from home till a further settlement,
of which, by God's blessing, we are in great expectation. |
|
We hear you have appointed a treasurer and 2 others to secure
the estate of the late John Abney, so that all concerned therein
have their due. |
|
The effectual sentence you have procured against the importunate
clamours of Halil Aga, represented to us by those at Symrna, is a
good service, and will hinder such impudent pretences in future,
though that Avania, had it happened, would not have concerned us,
but only the managers, who were interested therein. |
|
We note your opinion about those 12 bales of Venice cloth seized
by the late consul at Smyrna, on account of the master's breach of his
bond for giving true entries. The consul may have been deficient in
formality, yet considering the commander's gross abuse in concealing
almost the whole consulage of the ship, we have ordered the bales
to be detained till he produces a true manifesto of the lading, and
pays our duties, and the charges of seizure. |
|
As our factors abroad combine with the commanders of ships to
cheat the company and their principals in the matter of consulage—
of which one-third has not been paid, and some, as Pentlow and
Foley, peremptorily refuse to give notice of what they have laden
on several ships—we are determined not to suffer such an affront,
but to redress it by fair means if possible. |
|
We have therefore resolved that each factor give a signed account
to the treasurer of goods consigned or received by him, on penalty of
double consulage on goods not entered or falsely entered, the penalty
to be levied on those or the next goods of the offending factor. The
treasurer is to give the factor a receipt in form subjoined for the
goods so entered, which receipts, with copies of the entries, shall
be sent to England, and an account of the duties received. For
doing this he is to have 100 dollars a year more. Every commander
of a ship making false entries is to have his goods seized and secured
till he perfects the entry, and pays the duties lost by his concealment. |
|
As our English manufacturers at Smyrna are overpressed by
leviations, we have agreed that in such cases in future a moderate
consulage shall be raised on goods both out and in. |
|
We inform you of all, that you may have an eye to our interest in
our several factories, execute our intentions, and punish delinquents,
or we may for ever continue under the burden of a great debt,
whilst what should diminish it falls into private purses. |
|
We approve of your substituting Mr. Bokenham as consul at
Smyrna. He was nominated here with others, but Rich. Baker has
been chosen, and is well qualified. We beg your assistance to him.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 333–335.] |
May 7.
London. |
Levant Company to Rich. Onslow, treasurer, and the rest of the
English at the factory of Smyrna. We approve Ant. Bokenham's
temporary filling the place of consul on Prideaux's decease, but we
have chosen Rich. Baker, who will soon be sent. We disapprove of
your dispensing our money in voting Bokenham's salary and charges,
as we alone must be masters of it. Also of your constant practice
of defrauding us of our consulage; directions about the gathering
in of consulage, entries, receipts, &, as in the preceding letter. |
|
We are satisfied with his lordship's care about the pretence of
Halil Aga, formerly taken by the Venetians out of the Angel, but if
any Avania had happened thereupon, the company would not have
been liable, nor will allow of any charge disbursed on that account.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 335–337.] |
| May 7. |
Order in Parliament, on information of riots and tumults in
sundry parts by unquiet spirits, that all sheriffs, justices of peace,
mayors, constables, and other ministers of justice who were in office
25 April 1660, shall be continued, acting in the King's name and
style, and endeavour to suppress all riots and misdemeanours
against the laws and peace of the realm, and all treasonable words
against the King's royal person and authority, and proceed against
all offenders according to law and justice. All military officers and
soldiers to assist them therein. Ordered to be printed and published.
Signed, W Jessop, clerk of the Commons' House of Parliament.
[Printed, 1 page. Proc. Coll. Charles II., No. 1a.] |
| May 8. |
Declaration in the House of Commons that an Act for securing the
Protestant religion, and encouraging the learned and pious ministry
and the universities, with a due care of tender consciences; also a
general Act of oblivion and free pardon, an Act for confirmation of
proceedings in the courts of justice, an Act for confirmation of
grants and sales, and an Act securing to the army and navy their
arrears, are progressing, and will be speedily perfected. Ordered to
be published. [1 page, printed. Proc. Coll. Charles II., No. 2a.] |
| May 8. |
Order in Parliament. Although it can no ways be doubted but
that the King's title to his crowns and kingdoms was every way
completed by the death of his most royal father, yet as proclamations
have always been used in such cases, in order that all good subjects
might testify their duty and respect, and as the armed violence and
other calamities of past years have hitherto deprived us of such
opportunity of expressing our loyalty,—we, the Lords and Commons
assembled in Parliament, with the Lord Mayor. Aldermen, and
Commons of London, and other freemen of the Kingdom, do
heartily, joyfully, and unanimously acknowledge and proclaim that
immediately on the decease of our late sovereign lord, King
Charles, the imperial crown of these realms, by inherent birthright,
descended to Charles II., as next heir, and that by the goodness of
God he is undoubted King of England, Scotland, France, and
Ireland, and thereto we submit and oblige ourselves and our
posterities for ever. With order to be printed, signed by Jessop.
[1 page, printed. Proc. Coll. Charles II., No. 2. Also printed
in Commons' Journals, Vol. VIII., p. 16.] |
May 8/18.
Hague. |
16. Petition of Fras. Bowles to the King. I engaged in your
service in the late wars. At Edgehill I was the first man struck,
and was stripped and left for dead, but being found alive next day,
was taken to Oxford, where the late King ordered great care to be
taken of me, so that I was able to serve at Bristol and Naseby, and
was taken prisoner at the Vale of Evesham. I beg the mastership
of the tents, void by death, for 30l. a year. My father and grandfather were yeoman and groom of the tents above 100 years.
[1 page.] |
May 8/18.
Breds. |
17. Form of Declaration by the King that,—having promised
Dan O'Neale the custody of St. James' house, park, bowling alley,
tennis court, and gardens,—when he is fully informed in what
manner such grants formerly passed, whether by warrant, letters
patent, or otherwise, he will complete the grant in the usual form.
Endorsed [by Nicholas], "Mr. Dan O'Neale to have the custody of
St. James' house; draft prepared by him, whereof I am to put the
King in mind." [½ page.] |
| May 9. |
Order in Parliament, that all ministers in England, Wales, and
Berwick-on-Tweed be ordered in their public prayers to pray for
the King, by the name of "Our sovereign lord, Charles, by the
grace of God, of England, Scotland, France, and Ireland, King,
Defender of the Faith, and for the most illustrious Prince James,
Duke of York, and the rest of the royal progeny." |
|
That the Ministers appointed to officiate in both Houses next
Thursday, being Thanksgiving Day, and other ministers in London
and Westminster who officiate in churches and chapels that day,
and those who perform the like duty throughout the Kingdom that
day fortnight, be enjoined to thank God for his Majesty's several
gracious letters to both Houses, and to the commanders-in-chief of
the forces, both by land and sea, and to the Lord Mayor and
Common Council of London, with the declarations enclosed, and
the just and honourable concessions therein contained. Also for
the hearty and loyal conjunction of the Lords and Commons in
Parliament, and the universal concurrence of all commanders and
forces, both by land and sea, to receive his Majesty into his
dominions. Also that the ministers read at the same time his
Majesty's letters and declarations. Ordered to be published.
[1 page, printed. Proc. Coll. Charles II., No. 2b, Commons' Journal,
Vol. VIII., p. 19.] |
May 9.
Naseby, Downs. |
18. Gen. Edw. Montague to the Admiralty Commissioners.
I perceived, by the print lately come to my view, that the General
and the Marquis Caracena have made an agreement for exchange of
prisoners; having some Ostenders here, I desire to know whether
I should keep or dismiss them. I hope care is taken therein for
our fishermen, or else some speedy provision should be made for
their security. The enclosed from the Mayor of Dover will acquaint
you with the case of Peter Hales, now prisoner at Ostend, and
I desire advice therein. |
|
Let the victualling at Portsmouth be put into a condition to
answer our wants, so that ships may victual there and repair to the
Downs. The Drake should be paid off, and the debts of the Dover
and Deal men, for the entertainment of our sick men, paid; if they
cannot obtain the whole, let 200l. a week be sent to each town, to
enable them to do that service, which no credit, nor anything but
present money, can do. I the rather press this because of the occasion now so greatly expected, on which it is very necessary the
fleet be kept as healthful as possible, and cleared of diseased men.
[1⅓ page.] Enclosing, |
|
18. i. Thos. Broome, Mayor, Thos. Day, Luke Brailsford, and
Wm. Cullen to Gen. Montague. Peter, son of Wm.
Hales, an ancient servant of the Corporation, being
master of a ship of London, bound for Lisbon, was
taken prisoner 4 or 5 months since, by Capts. Clincart
and Garrett, commanders of several Ostend war frigates, and has since been kept in confinement at Ostend,
on pretence that when he was taken, in consideration
of his men being set at liberty, he undertook to procure
the release of 20 Ostenders, prisoners in England, but
which he utterly denies. The captains freed the men
to save their victuals at sea, and the Judges and Commissioners of the Admiralty being displeased with
them, they have given such misinformation against
Hales that he is put upon such hard terms of getting
his liberty as to free 20 for one, and by means thereof,
has endured long and hard imprisonment. Having
once before been taken by Ostenders two years since, he
is altogether disabled to procure his enlargement upon
such unreasonable terms. We request that you will
write the Judges and Admiralty Commissioners at
Ostend to release him, or else to grant him his freedom
upon such equal terms as other masters of ships have.
Dover, May 2, 1660. [1 page.] |
May 9.
Victualling Office. |
19. Fras. Willoughby and Robt. Thomson to the Admiralty
Commissioners. We herewith send you on account of the present
debts of this office, which you will find to be very considerable, and
intreat you to take care for a speedy supply of money for the whole
action, and particularly for that of Plymouth, which is under great
straits for want thereof. There are now several ships in that
harbour that lie for victuals, and cannot be supplied without money,
and we therefore desire that there may be an order for 1,000l. out
of the assessments in that county, which lies ready in cash, as also
for 1,000l. out of the excise, so that our agent may be enabled to
carry on your affairs, and not receive prejudice by engaging his
own credit for procuring provisions which otherwise could not be
had. [2/3 page.] |
May 9.
Victualling Office. |
20. Fras. Willoughby and Robt. Thompson to the Admiralty
Commissioners. The State's occasions of late have called for considerable quantities of beer from the several brewers, whereby there
is much owing them from this office, they having not yet received
what is due to them for beer delivered before last October. As
they have desired us to move you for a discount of what they
respectively owe at the Excise Office for the excise of their beer,
we send you a list thereof, and intreat you to give order that the
same may be discounted as formerly. [2/3 page.] |
May 9.
Ordnance Office. |
21. Ordnance officers to the Admiralty Commissioners. On
28 September 1659, we contracted to deliver to Christian Eylers and
Thos. Carter, powder makers of London, 525 barrels of old decayed
powder, which they undertook to repair and make serviceable at
14s. a barrel,—with allowance of 5l. per cent. for waste—and to
put the powder into sufficient casks, and return it Tower proof, to
abide for 2 years; and in case any of the powder or proofs of
powder should be found defective, to deliver as many barrels of
good new powder. We have therefore delivered to them 469 barrels,
but have not as yet sufficient in the stores to complete the contract
with them; there are however 395 barrels of Spanish powder, which
we purpose to revise, and will then offer an opinion whether it may
be for the advantage of his Majesty's service to repair the same or
not. [1 page.] |
| May 10. |
22. Denis Gauden to the [Admiralty Commissioners]. Last
September the Navy and Victualling Commissioners contracted with
me for victualling 4,600 men for 6 months for the last winter and
this summer's guard in the following ports: |
|
Dover |
2,000 |
4,600 men, 168 days at 7¾ d. per diem is |
24,995l. 0s. 0d. |
|
Harwich |
1,600 |
|
Milford |
200 |
|
Kinsale |
300 |
|
Hull |
250 |
|
Leith |
250 |
|
which sum I was to receive according to contract, by 10 monthly
payments, the first to commence 1 Oct. last, and so successively
the 1st of every month, and accordingly there was due to me, to the
1st of May, 19,964l. 0s. 0d., of which I have received by several
payments and assignments to the 9th inst., 9,632l.— |
|
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|
So there is due upon the contract |
10,332 |
0 |
0 |
|
More for harbour victuals at Harwich |
460 |
9 |
6 |
|
For supplies in several ports, about |
650 |
0 |
0 |
|
For pork and pipe staves |
411 |
13 |
8 |
|
The total upon this account, besides my interest in above 3,000l.,
due to Fras. Chaplin for butter, cheese, and peas, already delivered,
is 11,854l. 3s. 2d., the want whereof, together with my disappointments in the timely receipts of what have been already paid, has
not only been the occasion of a very great loss and damage to me,
but also rendered me incapable of giving supplies to the ships when
they called for victuals, which has been an injury to the provisions
in store, and prejudicial to the service, as the ships were not timely
dispatched, and occasioned an extra charge in victualling them elsewhere. It will for the future be a certain loss to his Majesty's
service, in case the provisions be not taken off according to contract,
or other ways disposed of. |
|
I therefore desire you will either order me such a speedy and
effectual supply of money as may enable me to furnish the ships
with victuals as needed, or discharge me of the contract, and give
me satisfaction with present payment for such provisions as are
ready, with an allowance for the charge of storehouses and agents
to Michaelmas next. [1½ pages.] |
| May [11] |
Council of State to the Commissioners, and other officers of
Customs. You are to permit the members of this house who are
appointed to wait on his Majesty, and their retinue to ship at the
Custom House Wharf or elsewhere such trunks, boxes, &c., as they
require for the present expedition, without stay or search, the
respective members sending a note thereof, to satisfy the Custom
House officers that they properly belong to them. [I. 116, p. 38.] |
| May 11. |
23. Order by the Admiralty Commissioners to the Navy Commissioners to provide the Naseby with a suit of Waste clothes of scarletcoloured cloth, as also the London and Swiftsure with a suit of
scarlet-coloured Kersey, and to take care that the same be sent to
the Downs with all convenient speed, it being for his Majesty's
special service. [¾ page.] |
| May 11. |
Declaration of the Lords and Commons in Parliament that the
Admiralty Commissioners, Army Committee, Commissioners for
appeals and regulation of excise and customs, Commissioners for
customs and excise, Commissioners for monthly assessments, and all
other revenue Commissioners and officers who were in office 25 April
1660 continue to exercise their offices in the King's name until
further order. Ordered to be published. [1 page, printed. Proc.
Coll. Charles II., No. 2 c, Commons' Journal, Vol. VIII., p. 23.] |
May 12/22.
Breda. |
24. Warrant by the King for Thos. Axtell to be under-graver,
with all fees, &c., after the restoration. Signed by the King and
countersigned by Nicholas. [2/3 page.] |
May 12.
Nottingham. |
25. Congratulation and petition of the town of Nottingham to
the King. Whereas it has pleased God to preserve you from
imminent danger, since the death of your father, and now to restore
you to your kingdoms, to the unspeakable joy of all your loyal and
obedient subjects, we think it right to restore to you all your just
rights, and hereby surrender a fee-farm rent of 63l. 16s. 6d. a year,
reserved on the grant of our charter by your father, but which we
were constrained to purchase for 500l. ready money, to preserve our
charter and liberties, rather than become farmers to the unjust
power that has so long deprived you of your birthright. We
beg to continue your farmers, paying this rent into the exchequer.
[1 page.] |
May 12.
St. James'. |
26. Gen. Geo. Monk to the Admiralty Commissioners. Denis
Gauden, victualler of the outports, informs me that he is so far
short in his receipts of the payments agreed to by contracts with
him for victuals supplied to the navy at the outports, as that so
much of his estate is laid out for provision for the fleet that he
cannot go on in supplying them, which is of great inconvenience to
the service, and he therefore desires to be discharged of his
contracts, unless he can be satisfied for provisions from time
to time, so as to enable him to furnish them. |
|
As he has still been ready to comply with orders for furnishing
the fleet, though punctual performance was not made with him, and
has now satisfied for the victualling of two ships at Hull that I
engaged to see paid for, I request, as well for the sake of the public
as his private, that you will give order for helping him to such a
present supply of money on account as that he may be enabled to
proceed in his business with encouragement, after his long forbearance and continued readiness to serve you, and that he may be
supplied for the time to come as well as you can. [1 page.] |
May 14.
Whitehall. |
27. Robt. Blackborne to —. I have received yours of
the 11th instant, and given conveyance to his lordship's letters
therein enclosed. I hope that Mr. Pett came on board the Naseby
before the fleet sailed from Dover, and that Mr. Creed is possessed,
of the 200l. There is 500l. more ordered to-day on the same
account, and payable to such person as his lordship or Mr. Creed
shall assign. I entreat by your next I may have direction therein,
as well in whose name to make the bill of imprest, as also how
it shall be sent to the fleet, so that if possible you may receive no
prejudice by want of it. |
|
His Excellency has given commission to Gen. Penn to hasten to
the fleet, with such ships as are here in the river or at Portsmouth
in a sailing posture, and accordingly he went down to Gravesend
this morning about 2 o'clock, and wrote an express to Portsmouth,
directing the frigates there to repair to the Downs. The Merlin
galley at Chatham sailed to Queenborough Water on Saturday
night, to attend the coming of Mr. Hollis in the brigantine, to
transport him and his retinue to the fleet. |
|
The House have been these two days upon the Act of Oblivion.
The persons to be excepted admits of much debate. For some
unseemly motion made by Sir John Lenthall (who would have had
all persons that had served in arms against the late King's majesty,
as well as those that gave judgment against him, to be exempted
from pardon) the House called him to the bar, where on his knees
he received a severe reproof, and by vote was degraded of his
knighthood, and very narrowly escaped being sent to the Tower.
This day the House have ordered all the persons that were present
as judges when sentence was pronounced against his late Majesty,
with the officers of the court, to be secured, in order to a trial.
Many of them ('tis said) are escaped. The prints herewith sent
will communicate other occurences. "Our great expectations and
longings are for the safe return of his Majesty, whom the hearts of
the whole nation (as one man) are towards." [1 page.] |
May 15.
Kinsale. |
28. Wm. Milner, son, and 2 others [to the Admiralty Commissioners.] We have received an order from the Council of State of
5 April last, to deliver to Capt. Rich. Potter, commander of the
Great President, all such goods and merchandize as we could find
that were brought into this harbour in the Turkey, a Spanish prize,
and seen your instructions to Capt. Potter, whereby we are empowered to deliver to him the said prize, together with her tackle
and furniture. We have accordingly delivered all such goods, as
also the prize, and send you the invoices. |
|
We were likewise ordered by the Commissioners for government
of affairs in Ireland to acquaint you of a quantity of logwood that
was sold by Lieut. Robt. Lord, who commanded the prize when she
was brought in here, which, according to his own subscribed
account, amounted to 172l. 10s.; this account, together with Lieut.
Lord, we have also sent home by Capt. Potter, to be proceeded
against as you judge fit. In the invoice of the goods laden in the
prize, there are 30 casks of butter, and one butt and 2 hogsheads
of oatmeal, which Lieut. Lord received in exchange for part of the
logwood sold by him, and which is included in the above sum. |
|
We also find, by the examinations taken by commissioners
formerly appointed by the authority here, that Nich. Rainger and
Rich. Dale were master's mates in the prize, and according to their
own acknowledgment, sold 38l. worth of the said logwood, and
when a stop was put upon the prize here, they went to England to
seek for their wages. Also that other small parcels of the same
were embezzled by the seamen, and sold to several persons in and
near this town, which goods now cannot be found. |
|
There has been 74l. 19s. disbursed by Jno. Willingham, collector
of this port, for the charges of landing the said goods, and for
victuals and conduct money to 27 seamen belonging to the prize, an
account of which is also sent, so that the same may be reimbursed
to the treasury here. [12/3 page.] |
May 16.
Lichfield, Mumbles Road. |
29. Capt. Wm. Parker to the Admiralty Commissioners. Since
leaving Plymouth on the 5th instant, I have been plying between
the Lizard, Land's End, and mouth of the Severn, by order of
Capt. Hatsell, and gave chase to Beach, but he got away by staving
some of his casks of liquor, and thus lightened his frigate; another
got away by throwing his lumber overboard. |
|
Hearing there were two men-of-war in St. Ives' Road, waiting to
receive some money for vessels they had sold, I went there, but was
misinformed. Standing off, I chased two barks, and took one of
them, the Youghal Merchant of Bideford, of 20 tons, but with
little in her. Being uncertain of fair weather, I anchored in Clovelly
Road, and lest I might omit service of greater importance, I sold
her to the owner, who has paid 16l. for salvage, and given a note of
hand for what more may be required; putting into Caldey, I
found her consort there, which had been retaken by the town boats
of Tenby. Both of these, with another I also chased, were formerly
Beach's prizes. |
|
Putting out of Caldey, I chased two more, one of which ran ashore
near Mumbles Road, and the other over Swansea Bar, and I after
her, and fearing she might not be subdued by the people on shore,
I sent some of my men armed, and took her, and intend carrying
her to Plymouth. She has 4 guns, is called the Henrietta Maria,
and was commanded by Geo. Doudall, an Irishman, having the
Duke of York's commission. She had taken 13 sail within a
week, and much annoyed the trade of the Channel. There was
over 100l. on board of her, which I have secured, her company
being in the custody of the mayor of the town. I desired him to
send her company to me, but they refused to come, and having
no warrant, I could not compel them by force; on the mayor's
intreaty, I gave him 10l. to defray their charge, so that they should
not be a burden to the town. This I hope will be allowed me out
of the money found on board. As the mayor understands that all
the prisoners of war in England have been set at liberty, he intends
giving them passes to return home. [12/3 pages.] |
May 16.
Basing, at Sea. |
30. Capt. Rich. Hodges to the Admiralty Commissioners. Sailing
to the northward last Sunday, and descrying a sail, I gave chase,
and after doing so for six hours and firing several shots, I fetched
her up, and entered 40 men on board of her, which caused them to
yield. I brought her into Whitby, and while riding at anchor, a
boat arrived and certified there was another small rogue in Robin
Hood's Bay. Having weighed anchor and sailed there, in a short
time I had possession of him; only one of the enemy was killed
and 2 of our men wounded, but they are likely to do well. I have
set the men of both vessels, being 60 in number, on shore at
Scarborough, and have the vessels still with me. As one has
4 guns and the other 3, I desire leave to keep one of them, as it is
possible it may trepan some of his consorts, and there are many of
them upon the coast. In the two vessels there were 4 masters
belonging to Lynn and Colchester, who were to pay 250l. each.
If you have any order for me as to disposing of the vessels, I
desire you will let me have it, either at Yarmouth or Scarborough,
where I intend to leave one of them, and keep the other until you
order to the contrary. [1 page.] |
May 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Wm. Blackhurst and Capt. Ant. Compton,
messenger. We are informed that several quantities of goods suspected
to belong to the King have been brought within the last few days
to Mr. Wormwood's house in Spittle Yard. You are to repair
thither, search for them, view them, and if they appear to be his
Majesty's goods, seal them up, and not remove them till further
orders. [I. 116, p. 40.] |
May 18.
Marseilles. |
31. Benjamin Newland to the Admiralty Commissioners. Capt.
Jonas Poole, from Smyrna, under date the 4/14 ult., sent me the
enclosed to forward to you, and enjoined me to advise you how
many days the ship that brought it spent in her passage, which
were 30; 8 ships of war departed from Toulon 20 days since, with
a good number of soldiers under the Pope's flag, and seven more
are suddenly following, designed, as is generally said, to land their
soldiers in Dalmatia, and that the ships will visit Tripoli, Tunis,
and Algiers before they return. They carry on 4 of them 300 unmounted brass guns, which, it is said, are intended westwards. The
Spanish men-of-war at the Straits' mouth are numerous, and render
that passage very dangerous to all English merchantmen. [¾ page.] |
| May 18. |
32. Order in the House of Lords, on petition of Geo. Clark, clerk
of deliveries in the Ordnance Office,—stating that he holds his place
by patent under the Great Seal, and has long been kept out of it,
and another put in, to his great damage, — that he enjoy his office
until the King's pleasure be further signified. [½ page. Printed
in Lords' Journals, Vol. XI., p. 32.] |
May 18/28.
Hague. |
33. Thomas, Lord Howard of Charleton, and Viscount Andover,
to Sec. Nicholas. I beg your favour for my servant, for continuance of the place he held under the late King, as a messenger of
the chamber, shown by certificate of the Earl of Dorset, then Lord
Chamberlain of the Household. New comers should not circumvent
old stagers who have served faithfully from the beginning. I shall
always be ready to serve you by way of retaliation. [¾ page.] |
May 18.
Edinburgh. |
34. Earl of Loudoun to the King. My late silence has not
proceeded from neglect of duty, but from fear lest, being under the
captivity of an armed force, it would have been destruction to write.
I would have hazarded this, but it would have been useless to you.
Many are posting to see you quicker than my age and my strength
(spent with the calamities I have endured since you left Scotland)
permit, yet I cordially rejoice in your restoration. As in the time
of sharpest trial, it was ever my honour to be faithful, so it will
be my chief care to preserve your authority, and endear you in the
affection of your subjects. [1 page.] |
May 19.
London. |
35. Sir Phil. Mainwaring to Sec. Nicholas. My having borne in
one of his Majesty's kingdoms that character which you so worthily
bear in another, and your former kindness, assure me that when
you have leisure to mention so poor a creature to the King, you
will say that I have served him in what has been most useful—
constant prayer for him. I have reward enough for an old man in
seeing the fruits of the prayer of faith of good men. Yet when
the sun approaches, everything feels his virtues, so if I, at 72 years
of age, though in good health, do not put up my pretence, I shall
slip my time. My humble suit is the mastership of Sutton's
hospital. Noted as received the 27th. [2 pages.] |
May 19/29.
Hague. |
36. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General to prepare a
grant of general pardon, in the usual form, to Sam. Moyer, citizen
of London, for all offences to the present date. Signed by the
King, countersigned by Nicholas. [2/3 page.] |
| [May 20.] |
37. Petition of Peter Hardress, B.D., to the King, for the
prebendary's place in Christ Church, Canterbury, void by death of
Drs. Peake or Westley, or by death or incapacity of Dr. Goffe.
Has been a constant sufferer for conscience and loyalty to Church
and King. [½ page. Granted 20 May, 1660. See Calendar of
Charles II., Vol. I., p. 84.] Annexing, |
|
37. i. Certificate by Dr. Peter Gunning and Edw. Martin,
Master of Queen's College, Cambridge, in favour of the
petitioner. [2/3 page.] |
| May 21. |
38. Petition of Hen. Hart, master of one of the Glasgow ships
taken by Morgan Jones, a privateer with a Swedish commission, to
the Council of State. I addressed you, and by your order, attended
the Admiralty Commissioners, who referred me to the Admiralty
Judges, but they would not examine my case till Jones' frigate and
prize were arrested. The Judges at Guernsey refuse to do this
without your order, and for 7 months I and my ship and company
have been lying at Guernsey at great charge, and under bail in
1,000 livres to prove the freedom of my ship and goods. Meanwhile Jones' crew are embezzling the goods and appurtenances of
the ship, though under arrest, so that unless I am speedily relieved,
nothing will be left for me or the merchants. Jones also summoned me in the Upper Bench for 9 May, and I still remain there
a prisoner, being a stranger, and unable to procure bail. I beg an
order to the Guernsey Judges for reparation of my losses out of the
frigate, and for liberation of myself and the said ships, till the case
is determined. [2/3 page.] Annexing, |
|
i. Particulars of the seizure of the said ships in September 1659,
and of proceedings relating to them during the past seven
months. [2/3 page.] |
May 21.
Whitehall. |
39. Order in the Council of State, referring the petitioner to the
Admiralty Commissioners, to examine the whole matter, and if the
ships and lading belong to subjects of Scotland, to order their
release and restoration, and report. [2/3 page.] |
May 21.
Great President, off Plymouth. |
40. Capt. Rich Potter to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have
returned from Ireland with the Turkey prize and goods, but the
gaining of both were with many difficulties, for I was constrained
to be at all the charge of lighterage, porterage, and other charges
incident for getting the goods on board, and to take what weight
they would give me in the seller. I might have dispatched all in
2 or 3 days, but was kept there 16 or 17 days before I could get
her under my charge, the governor and customer using all the
dilatory means they could to put me off until they heard from
Lord Broghill, and seemed much to contemn the order I brought. As
I followed it, and earnestly pressed to be dispatched, the governor
gave me just occasion to believe it was his desire I should have come
without the prize, for he, with his soldiers, detained me a prisoner in
Kinsale for some time, and in my restraint, would have brought me
to engage to him that I should bring the frigate under the command
of his guns, and stay there until Lord Broghill ordered my own and
the frigate's release. This I absolutely denied, and retorted that I
must give an account to those that gave me that order, and not to
Lord Broghill. The cause of his detaining me was for some word
which he pretends I spoke, and which he conjectures might have
bred disturbance there. What he alleged against me is false, but I
conceive he has acquainted Lord Broghill. If any such complaint
should come to you, I desire your charitable construction until I
can answer for myself before you, when I shall give a further and
larger account of my proceedings. |
|
On the 18th instant, his Majesty was proclaimed at Cork and
Kinsale. The Sovereign there desired by letter that I would assist
them with my trumpets and firing of guns for solemnizing the day,
but the wind being fair, and my provisions well nigh spent, I was
constrained to come away before it was performed. |
|
As for the number and weight of the sticks of logwood, and the
weight of the sugar and butter, you will be informed by the
enclosed. I desire order concerning Lieut. Lord, who was commander of the prize and is now in my custody. Our frigate is so
much out of repair, not having had anything done to her since last
June, when she was fitted for three months, that she is unfit
for service, and the stores being expended, I shall hasten to the
Downs. [12/3 page.] Enclosing, |
|
40. i., ii. Acknowledgment by Capt. Rich. Potter of the receipt
from the Commissioners at Kinsale, appointed by
order of the Council of State, of the Turkey prize,
taken by the Nightingale, and brought into Kinsale,
together with the remainder of her goods and furniture. 16 May 1660. [2/3 page. 2 copies.] |
|
40. iii. Account of logwood, sugar, butter, and oatmeal, belonging to the Turkey prize, delivered to Capt. Rich. Potter,
and by him to Robt. Joules, whom he appointed
master of the prize, to bring her to England; with
Joules' receipt for the same. 16 May 1660.
[1 page.] |
|
40. iv., v. Inventory of the tackle and furniture belonging to the
Turkey prize, and delivered to Robt. Joules, master,
with his receipt for the same. 16 May 1660.
[2 copies, 1¼ pages.] |
|
40. vi. Account by Rich. Sturt, for Jno. Willingham, of disbursements by order of the Commissioners for the
Spanish prize, in unloading and reloading her goods,
and victualling and advancing money to the seamen
employed to bring her to England. Total 74l. 19s.
Kinsale, March 2, 1660. [1 page.] |
May 21.
Victualling Office. |
41. Robt. Thomson and Fras. Willoughby, Victualling Commissioners, to the Admiralty Commissioners. We have received an
account from Mr. Addis of what is due to the several butchers and
bakers at Plymouth who, being poor men, are much prejudiced by
the want thereof. Such is their condition that some of them have
been necessitated to take a journey to London, are now here
soliciting us for their money, and intend waiting upon you. We
have considered of their condition, and perceive that in case 1,000l.
more were assigned to Mr. Addis, over and above the 1,500l. to be
distributed among the said persons, it would enable them to proceed
in the performance of their contract, whereby his Majesty's service
might be duly answered when there is occasion; therefore we
intreat you to give order for that sum to be paid out of the
excise in Devonshire, Cornwall, and Dorset, in which counties they
desire the assignments may be made. [¾ page.] |
May 22.
5 leagues from Gibraltar. |
42. Capt. Thos. Teddiman to the Admiralty Commissioners. On
the 17th instant we met Capt. Curtis off Trabelldegar [Trafalgar ?]
who told us that the evening before, he had been in fight with
a Spanish man-of-war, and as there were six more at anchor
under Tarfe [Tarifa ?] we made all sail there, but they got within
the Mould in New Gibraltar, and hauled their ships, as also a big
English ship they had taken, so near the town that they had not a
foot of water more than they drew. After returning to Gibraltar
Bay, there was a meeting on board Capt. Blake, to consult as to
what was best to be done, most of the commanders being
present. It blew hard westerly, so that we could not carry out our
lower tier, and might have destroyed our own frigates, without
doing much damage to the ships under their forts, and there was so
little water where they rode that we could not come near to them
without fireships, which we had not, so it was agreed to take no
action. About 6 p.m., 6 other ships from the west came upon the
southern point of Old Gibraltar, and standing over to speak with
them, we chased 2 Spanish men-of-war under Ceuta, where the
town fired guns at our frigates, after which we returned to our
merchantmen. The next day Capts. Robt. Blake and Allen parted
from us with their convoys. Since then we have been in our station
at the Straits' mouth, attending the coming forth of the ships from
thence, and on the 20th, chased 2 Spanish galleys to the west of
Gibraltar, forced one of them on shore, and sunk her, after taking
out 140 slaves and forcadoes, the rest with the Spaniards getting on
shore. I have put the forcadoes on board a Holland man-of-war for
Spain, and will land the Turks and Moors in Barbary. We are now
plying about here until our time is expired. [1¼ pages.] |
May 22./June 1.
Hague. |
43. Note [by Sec. Nicholas] in answer to the lame Dutchman's
petition about 12,000 guilders, that the King is inclined to pay
what, on examination of the accounts, shall appear to be due, when
he is settled in England. With translation of the same into
French. [2/3 page.] |
May 23.
Victualling Office. |
44. Maj. Rob. Thomson and Fras. Willoughby, Victualling
Commissioners, to the Admiralty Commissioners. There is due to
the bearers, Messrs. Cleave and Otridge, 469l. for beef and pork
delivered into the stores at Portsmouth, which should have been
paid for on delivery according to agreement, and as they desire the
same may be assigned to them out of the excise in Wiltshire, as
granted to others in like cases, we offer the same to your consideration. [½ page.] |
May 23.
Victualling Office. |
45. Thomson and Willoughby to the Admiralty Commissioners.
According to your order, we have considered of each man's debt
at this Office upon the victualling account, and have also had respect
thereto in reference to the proportion of each man's action with
what is owing them respectively, and have accordingly distributed
to each what we judge convenient to be assigned to them, over and
above the former assignations, and inclose a list thereof which, if
you shall think fit to allow, will be a great accommodation to his
Majesty's service, and enable each person to a due compliance with
his contract. There is a considerable sum due to other persons who
are not under contract, and of whom we bought several extra
provisions, as pipe-staves, canvas for biscuit bags, brandy, currants,
oil, &c., which could not be had but for ready money; as they
will not have the benefit of these assignations, we desire you will
order some money to be received here as formerly for payment of
these persons, as also for discharge of the several bills of exchange
drawn from Portsmouth and Plymouth, which still remain unsatisfied
to the value of nearly 9,000l., some of which have been due 12
months, and were drawn and entered to be paid at 7 days' sight.
[1 page.] Enclosing, |
|
45. i. List of 25 persons, with the amount due to each, total
6,400l., for whom assignments are requested on counties
mentioned. [¾ pages.] |
| May 24. |
46. Declaration by Rich. Lucy, Charlcott, co. Warwick, that with
humble and hearty thankfulness, he lays hold on the King's gracious
pardon in the declaration 4/14 of April, and will continue his loyal and
obedient subject. Signed by himself, and certified by Sir Harbottle
Grimstone, Speaker of the House of Commons. [Parchment.] |
| May 24. |
47. Like declaration, signed and certified, of Barth. Hall, of
Harding Court, co. Oxon. [Parchment.] |
| May 25. |
48. Like declaration, signed and certified, of Bulstrode Whitelock, of Fawley Court, co. Berks. [Parchment.] |
| May 25. |
Declaration by the Lords and Commons that, considering the urgent
occasion for the present payment of excise and customs, the Commissioners for Appeals and Regulating Excise, Commissioners of
Customs, and their sub-commissioners and officers in the several
counties proceed effectually to collect the growing duties, and get in
all arrears of excise and customs continued by an Act of 25 Feb. last
to 24 June next. All brewers and others concerned are to pay their
dues, as they will answer their neglect, at a time when his Majesty
and the kingdom's service require the most punctual satisfaction of
what is due from them. Ordered to be published. [Proc. Coll.,
Charles II., No. 2d.] |
May 25.
Westminster. |
49. House of Lords to the King. Our sense of your safe arrival
in England is such as obliges us to express it, before we have the
honour and happiness to do it personally, which we intend to do,
when we know your pleasure when and where we shall wait on
you, and consult with you as to the safety of your royal person,
wherein we are highly concerned, in your return to London; your
security is to be preferred to all external considerations. Signed
by the Earl of Manchester, Speaker, pro. tem. [1 page.] |
May 25.
Custom House, London. |
50. Geo. Foxcroft and 3 others to the Admiralty Commissioners.
We send you copy of a letter received from Fras. Buckeridge, our
collector at Milford, advising us of a bark of Barnstaple taken prize
by Capt. Beach, and forced into Caldey Road near Tenby; it being
a case whereof we have not any power to take cognizance,
understanding you are authorised in such affairs, we desire you will
give necessary directions to our collector. [½ page.] Enclosed, |
|
50. i. Fras. Buckeridge to the Commissioners of Customs. Last
Thursday, a Spanish man-of-war, commanded by Capt.
Beach, took a bark of Barnstaple, which the next day was
forced into Caldey Road by extremity of weather; the
townsmen of Tenby perceiving this, fitted out a boat and
brought her within the quay, and as there were 4 of the
Spaniard's men on board, besides 2 of her own, the mayor
has secured the former, and has made fast the hatches of
the bark, so that nothing be taken out until further order.
There is a small quantity of goods, such as wool, wine,
fruit, and leather, which the men say they took in at
Dublin, but they cannot show any warrant; it is more
likely they were put on board by the captain, to be sent to
St. Sebastians. As I formerly had order to take charge
of any such goods, and to acquaint the Commissioners
for Prize Goods with it, and as I do not know how it
stands now, I have appointed a man on board to see all
things safe until further directions. Pembroke, 18 May,
1660. [1 page, copy.] |
May 26.
Plymouth. |
51. Wm. Addis to Robt. Blackborne. I have lately acquainted
you how unsuccessful the letters of the Commissioners of Excise
to their agents concerning the 1,500l. are, being not positive
orders to them. I have been the more bold with you to engage
your endeavours for me, and more pressing in my arguments to the
Commissioners with respect to my engagements in this affair, in
regard I have minded the public interest more than my private, and
in the greatest of our straits, my chief end has been to uphold the
action, and my own employment, and when my engagements are
satisfied, my greatest gain will be riddance from trouble. I hope that
your orders from the Excise Commissioners will come authentic by
the next post, and that our butchers and bakers may also find some
relief in their sad exigency; indeed as to the whole debt of our port,
it would much grieve me to see any person miscarry wherein I have
been concerned, and for whom I am bound in conscience to be a
daily solicitor. I have discerned my folly in accommodating the
service of late, upon the pressing importunities of Capt. Heaton,
and his promises of labouring to procure the confirmation of a former
order for 500l. on the customs, whereby I endeavoured to supply him
with 5 cwt. of bread, which he wanted for the ships at Portsmouth. |
|
The Colchester is in harbour and out of victuals, but I dare not
venture to procure a supply, wanting both order and money to
accomplish it, and yet such is the necessity that in a day or two the
men will be forced to leave the ship and come ashore, and the
Sapphire, Fagons, Wolf, and Griffin will be in the same condition,
if not prevented. We have all provisions in store except biscuits
and peas, which nothing but ready money will procure. [1⅓ pages.] |
May 26.
[Canterbury.] |
52. The King to the Speaker of the House of Lords. After
receiving your invitation, we hastened to embark for our native
kingdom, and God has brought us safe to land. We cannot doubt
his blessing on our endeavours for the honour and happiness of our
kingdoms. We trust your professions of loyalty and affection, and
will be deficient in nothing that becomes a gracious prince to faithful
subjects. We hope to arrive in London on Tuesday and will give
you notice where and when to attend us. [Draft by Sec. Nicholas.
Printed in Parliamentary History, Vol. XXII., pp. 309–310.] |
May 26.
[Canterbury.] |
53. The King to the [Speaker of the House of] Commons.
Having repaired into our native kingdom, according to your faithful
counsel, we arrived yesterday at Dover, and came hither, where we
graciously received your affectionate congratulations. We are
resolved to employ our best care to advance the happiness of our
people, and are confident that you will join therein with all readiness. We shall begin our journey to London on Monday, and
arrive on Tuesday, and send notice to our House of Commons when
and where to attend us. [Draft by Sec. Nicholas, 1 page.] |
May 26.
Canterbury. |
54. The King to Gen. Monk. Our predecesors, since the institution of the Order of the Garter by Edward III., have chosen into its
fellowship emperors, kings, princes, and illustrious persons,
strangers as well as subjects, who for noble extraction or heroic
virtues (especially on military enterprise) have been worthy of
admission. Considering your noble birth, famous actions in military command, and above all that by your wisdom, courage, and
loyalty, you have principally acted in our restoration without effusion of blood—acts that no precedent age can parallel—we show our
great esteem of your person and merit by electing you Knight of
the Garter, and invest you with the Garter and George; the habit
and other requisites you shall receive at Windsor Castle, the proper
place for solemnizing your installation. With the George and
Garter, you are to wear the star and glory of silver, with
St. George's cross embroidered in silver on your cloak or upper
garment, use the Garter about your arms, and the style of Knight
Companion of the Garter. Endorsed, with notes (by Sir Edw.
Hyde), of the change of phraseology required in a like letter to
Gen. Montague, making him Knight of the Garter, for his signal
merit in the restoration, with such wonderful circumstances as the
world stands amazed at; for declaring his resolution to serve the
King when it was full of hazard and danger to do it, and disposing
the fleet to entire obedience. [3½ pages. Also in Letter Book,
Charles II., No. 26, p. 9.] |
| May 26. |
55. Declaration by George Farrington, of Westminster, of his
acceptance of the King's pardon, and of his loyalty and fidelty.
Signed by himself, certified by Sir H. Grimstone, Speaker. [1 page.] |
| May 27. |
56. Statement of Edw. Sherburne's interest in the Office of Clerk
of the Ordnance. It was granted him by the late King 3 Feb.
1637–38, and he served till, by order of the Lords, 17 Aug. 1642, he
and others were committed to prison without cause shown, and he
was soon after dispossessed of his office and dwelling in the Tower,
and John White, and afterwards Lewis Audley put in. On 23 April
1660, the Council of State conferred the place on Major Fras.
Nicholls, who enjoys it and dwells in the Tower. Request that the
King will not confirm Nicholls in the place, for true and loyal discharge of which Sherburne has been 18 years a sufferer. [1 page.] |
| May 27. |
57. Sir Chas. Compton and Wm. Compton to [Sec. Nicholas].
At request of Capt. Knight, we recommend his petition to be
brewer to the Court, having had experience of his activity and
loyalty in the King's service. [1 page.] |
| May 28. |
58–62. Declarations by Maurice Thomson, of Stepney, Middlesex; Geo. Duncombe, of Shafford, Surrey; Henry Creech, of
St. Sepulchre's, London; Sir Jno. Wittewronge, of Rothamsted,
Herts; and John Leech, of Southweald, co. Essex, of their acceptance of the King's pardon, and of their loyalty and fidelity.
Signed by each, and certified by Sir H. Grimstone. [5 parchments.] |
May 28.
Petersfield. |
63. Wm. Cox to Captain Winter, Deputy-Governor of Windsor
Castle. I hear that Thos. Lawrence, lately of our company, but
dismissed, said to 2 soldiers that he was hired by Mr. Jenkins, of
Bishopsgate, to kill the King. I acquaint you the rather because
he lives in Windsor, and desire you to apprehend him with speed.
If need be, we can produce 1 or 2 witnesses of the words. Noted,
"This letter should be sent to Mr. Attorney-General." [1 page.] |
| May. |
64–69. Weekly accounts of the receipts and payments of the
Commissioners of Customs, 16 April—28 May 1660. [6 papers.] |
| May. |
70–74. Weekly accounts of the balance in hand at the Excise
Office. 5—19 May 1660. [5 papers.] |
| 1660 ? |
75. Petition of John Thomas, 50 years a gardener, to Parliament.
Has lately presented a petition by means of Ald. Isaac Pennington,
showing that every inhabitant could increase his rent one-half by
keeping swine, but as particulars are expected, gives them. The
land usually left fallow should be sown with early peas or turnips,
and these would keep the swine. Grass land should be sown with
hay seed, at a cost of 3d. an acre, and it would grow good crops.
Directions for planting and preserving fruit trees, breeding bees, &c.
Begs an Act enjoining everyone that has dealings in land to take
his book of directions, the price being only 4d., the constables in
every parish to collect the money by notices given in the churches,
he allowing them 1s. in the pound, and a fine inflicted on all who
print or sell his book without his consent. Could gain more by
giving directions to particular men, but seeks the general good of
the land. [1 sheet.] |
|
76. "The great trapanner of England discovered, being a true
narrative of many dangerous and abominable practices of one
Thomas Violet, goldsmith, to trapan the Jews and to ruin many
scores of families in and about London," by seducing them into
coining, and then informing against them, &c., shewing his unfitness
for the public trust at which he aims. [6 pages, printed.] |
|
77. Tractate by Sam. Annesley [grandfather of John Wesley],
arguing in favour of divorce in case of adultery, and of re-marriage.
[3½ pages.] |
| 1660 ? |
78. Note of Acts passed during the Commonwealth, viz., For the
maintenance and increase of the Navy and Shipping of the Kingdom; For making it Felony to transport Ordnance; For Armour to
be provided and fitted for the Service; For staying the transportation of Gold and Silver, and for bringing Silver into the Mint;
For further provision for conveying Wools out of the Realm; For
the more easily passing accounts in the Exchequer; For further
restraining Informers, and for reviving a former Statute touching
rebellious riots. [¾ page.] |
