Minute Book: November 1671, 17-30

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

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'Minute Book: November 1671, 17-30', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672, (London, 1908) pp. 966-982. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp966-982 [accessed 26 April 2024]

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November 1671, 17-30

Nov. 17.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
Sir William Stroud's petition is referred to Sir C. Harbord, who is to prepare a commission for inquiring for it according to Sir Ed. Hungerford's of the same nature [relating to lands taken in for] Plymouth fort.
Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord and Sir Ro. Howard to report what damage Mr. William Harbord may sustain by the annuity he pays yearly to Mr. Massam during his life, being 250l. per an., charged on Grafton Park.
Warrant for 1,000l. now to be paid to the Earl of Rochester. To be paid out of the Customs by Mr. Mounteney. Said Earl is to have another warrant for 1,000l. more for Xmas.
Referred to Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord, Sir R. Howard, and Mr. Sherwin to report whether it may be any inconvenience to grant Mr. John Hall his request to discharge John Gorge the way he proposes. (Out Letters General III. p. 18.)
Warrant for Thomas Elliot for the last three sums in his paper: on the Customs after the moneys already charged thereon.
Referred to Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord, Sir R. Howard and Mr. Sherwin concerning Major Beckfort's case and warrant, and to report how it may be satisfied so as the King pay it not twice.
Sir W. Doyley, Mr. Sherwin and Mr. Filingham to attend Lord Ashley to-morrow, and Sir R. Howard to be there about Goodman Widdows of Gloucestershire. Serg. Stevens and Major Harsenet, sergeant at arms, to be there also.
My Lords are willing that Edward Kennet should have the effects of his petition. Sir Ro. Howard to speak with Sir R. Long how it may be easiest done for him.
Mr. Porter, counsel, and Mr. Smith, his client, are called in. Mr. Porter [says] Mr. Smith was bound. Mr. Kinge and Mr. Car divided the county of Suffolk between them for receipts. Smith asked Kinge what caution he could give him; he saying none, Mr. Smith undertook but King obtained an order from the [late Lord] Treasurer to have the under officers to pay King, but the order was only under Sir George Downing's hand: after which King received by this 3,000l. They withdrew, and my Lords considered the request that the Farmers should not prosecute Smith till further orders. They will grant it, but Sir Ro. Howard is to speak with Sir G. Downing about the letter he writ. Afterwards my Lords order that Sir G. Downing and Mr. Smith attend on Monday afternoon and my Lords will then determine.
Sir Tho. Morgan called in. A privy seal [ordered] for 2,007l. 10s. 0d. to be placed on the fee farms in course and [in the privy seal] the report for Sir T. Morgan to be mentioned, and the yearly sum to be placed on Sir Ste. Fox and a new establishment to be made for it.
Mr. Ball, the Commissioners of Excise and Sir Ste. Fox are to attend my Lords on Monday with the Farmers of the Excise: about moneys of the Excise still unpaid.
Sir Ro. Howard to speak with Viscount Fauconberg about the remainder of an account of Walter Strickland. Process to be stayed against Mr. Wicliffe till further order. But to proceed in [the case of] Mr. Strickland according to Mr. Wicliffe's petition.
The accounts of the Mews referred to Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord, Sir R. Howard and Mr. Sherwin [to see] how the checks may be upon the accounts for the future without entrenching upon the [powers of the] Master of the Horse and yet not to be left arbitrary to the Surveyor to order what he pleases.
Dormant warrant for the Earl of Rutland's creation money.
The Commissioners for collecting the arrears of Excise in co. Huntingdon are referred to the Excise Commissioners.
Petition read from the officers of the House of Commons. Sir R. Howard to consult with Sir R. Long what said officers used to have.
Mr. Web, Mr. Filingham and Mr. Sherwin are to attend on Friday about the account of the Hearthmoney. The Auditors have notice already.
Write Sir Lionell Jenkins that Sir R. Howard has this day presented to my Lords the paper sent from said Jenkins without his name being attached thereto, and that my Lords expect a joint report from Sir Rob. Atkins and said Jenkins as to the method how all oaths shall pay the King's duty according to my Lords' former directions. (Out Letters General III. p. 20.)
Sir Ro. Howard and Sir Ro. Long to report directly what way is to be followed for satisfying Mr. Loup and such others as have paid money for Fee Farms and cannot have their bargains.
On Tuesday morning to hear Sir Ro. Long's report for [concerning] Lord St. John and partners.
Sir Ro. Howard and Sir Ro. Long to examine what money is due to Col. Strode upon his contract for bringing over the men from Barbados.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 52–5.]
Nov. 20.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe.
Speak with Mr. Laurence to know of the Attorney General why an answer is not put in to the plea of the Suffolk Commissioners. Laurence then to attend Lord Ashley.
A stop of all payments [is ordered] in relation to Sir Ralph Delavell; [to be addressed] to the Commissioners of the Wine Licences [and to be] till further order from my Lords.
The Duke of Richmond's warrant for 1,000l. [is ordered to be prepared].
Write Viscount Fauconberg that Henry Wilkinson, an agent of Mr. Water Strickland (late Receiver of Hearthmoney in one part of co. Yorks) is in arrear, and that my Lords do not issue process against my Lady out of respect until they have made his Lordship acquainted with it.
An order to stop the sheriff on Mrs. Rythe's petition.
Mr. May to be employed in the Customs; some good employment.
My Lords order the business against Mr. Richbell, merchant, of Southampton, to be ended as the Attorney General has advised.
The Customs Commissioners called in [and the following matters relating to the Customs are ordered].
Sir William Lowder presents a paper.
Mr. Garraway moves that if my Lords have any complaint against any person the Commissioners [of the Customs] may be acquainted with it. My Lords consent.
Mr. Theed to be put out and to be struck out in the books.
Mr. May's petition referred to the Customs Commissioners and delivered to Mr. Garraway.
The papers of the Customs to be entered as amended [struck out] put in order.
Speak with Mr. Wren and acquaint him with the desires of the [Customs] Commissioners concerning searching men of war that lie in port [and also as to] yards and storehouse and shew him the order for the yachts.
An order to be made about officers of the Customs which shall be deposed by the Commissioners without acquainting my Lords and [especially as to the point] what they [the Commissioners] shall pay [? as to wages in arrear or unearned].
Petition of the searchers is referred to the Customs Commissioners.
The question [is discussed] about exporting of beer [? in ships of war] what proportion shall be allowed. Capt. Kingdome says there is now to be settled a rule for the Victualling Bill. The Excise Commissioners and Customs Commissioners [are ordered] to confer about settling a medium for what beer shall be allowed for the crew, that the King may not pay for the exportation. They have taken no [sic] notice of it.
Mr. Brewer, upon the complaint of the Duke of Richmond, answers that in a week there shall be an account given of the cocquet.
Sir Rob. Howard to speak with Viscount Fauconberg for Sir G. Downing to have his plate.
The Excise Commissioners [are called in and the following matters relating to the Excise are ordered]:
Madame Carter's pension paid till Michaelmas by Sir G. Downing by particular direction of the Treasurer of the Household. A warrant for her for what was due at Michaelmas last [to be] paid by him.
Major Huntingdon says they called upon Mr. Ball and desired his accounts. Sir Jo. Duncombe says Mr. Ball shall constantly give in an account to the [Excise] Commissioners. Lord Ashley says the Commissioners may charge Mr. Ball in money and he may answer that he has not given his hand. Major Huntingdon says 'tis a clash between the Goldsmiths and Mr. Ball. They ask him to take notes. Mr. Ball says Lindsay shall receive the notes, so that 'tis Mr. Ball and Lindsay against the rest of Lombard Street. Lord Ashley says if Lindsey has only the receipts the rest of the Goldsmiths can have no credit on that fund and says that if Mr. Ball cannot swear that he has nothing to do peculiarly with any banker he shall out.
Capt. Kingdome moves that if the [Country Excise] Farmers pay not [their farm rents] at the day they may not be allowed interest [on their advances of rent]. Sir Rob. Howard to consult with the Excise Commissioners [how] to make an order that moneys [due] from the Excise may for the future be better paid. Col. Birch and the Excise Commissioners to attend my Lords on Wednesday afternoon.
Lord Colepeper and Sir Rob. Holmes to have notice to attend my Lords on Wednesday morning.
Mr. Pemmerto[n], Counsel for the Vintners, is called in about [said Vintners' claim of defalcation for] decayed wines. Alleges the [words of the] Act [viz.] that they shall pay duty for all wines that are to be sold by retail and therefore not to pay for wines not saleable. The Act did necessitate them to enter all wines and not of caution [they] entered all, but the [Wine Act] Commissioners, then told them they should have consideration for their eager [aeger or decayed] wines. Col. Birch [says] many bonds were transferred to them for the Navy. The Vintners answer the bonds were for decayed wines and then [the matter] was brought before my Lords. Mr. Pemmerton says there was one bond put in suit and stopped in the court [the wine in question] being found decayed wine. Col. Birch says my Lords did formerly incline [to the opinion] that decayed wines should not fail [sic? for pay] but the question is how they should know what was decayed wines. Col. Birch says the parties named in the warrant "read weir these their reports mencond," whom they found to be owner of the decayed wines. Mr. Pemmerton says Mr. Peirce is clear because his wines were viewed before [and found] to be decayed wines. They [the Vintners and their Counsel] withdraw. Lord Ashley asks: (1) what the sum [or value of such decayed wines or of the duty thereon] comes to in the whole; (2) what the quantities [of decayed wines which] are proved by every particular man; (3) [what the Vintners did with such wines and that they be obliged] to prove on oath what they did with the same, viz. whether sold as vinegar and not as wines. [Ordered that these questions] be reported [upon] by Col. Birch and the rest of the present Commissioners for the Second Wine Act with speed. (Out Letters General III. p. 23.)
Petition read from William Crabb, of Bristol, merchant, touching 10½ butts of sherry which he alleges were fit for nothing but to distil, yet the Commissioners of the Retrospect forced him to give security for them and have lately put his bond in suit. My Lords refer his case to Col. Birch, Mr. Wareing and Mr. Wingate. (Out Letters General III. p. 22.)
Mr. Jacob Croane called in. A question whether wine imported in January, 1667, were liable to pay Customs. The Baron [in the Exchequer Court] gave it against Mr. Croane. The construction of the [Retrospect clause of the second Wine] Act was that the wine resting [in the merchants possession and which] the merchant does not discharge himself of before June 24 [last] he is answerable for by the retail. The King has a certainty by the Custom House books and would have collected by the single duty 100,000l. by the latter [Second Wine] Act. Col. Birch only understands one part of Mr. Croan's business; which was he would have his bond when execution was ready. Col. Birch says they went [calculated] upon [the basis of] 12 tun in his possession and there were eight open entries [in Croan's books] where the persons [retailers] were not to be found. Capt. Kingdome asks how the merchants were to be called to account and by what authority [in cases] where the merchants sold to private sales [and not to the retailers]. His [Croane's] bond was given for wines found in his hands before 1670, June 24.
My Lords agree to the report of the Wine Act Commissioners concerning the decayed wines. An order is to be drawn accordingly.
The petition of Abraham Anselme and John Perry of London, brewer, [joint] Farmers of the Excise of Wales for three years ended June 24 last, praying allowance of 1,500l. for defalcations by reason of the plague, is referred to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. (Out Letters General III. p. 23.)
Mr. Slingsby called in: reads [the Mint] proposals concerning farthings. He has [retains in his possession] the paper [of said proposals]. My Lords order Mr. Slingsby to be at the Privy Council on Wednesday; and Sir Robert Howard to enquire [how] to get 5,000l. to be ready.
Enquire whether Porter and Fenn have kept their days of payment for William Prettyman. (In the margin: Wolseley sent to either of them to [bid them] come and speak with me [Sir Rob. Howard].)
Petition read from Thos. Scarlett, gent. My Lords will offer [the matter] to the King to have [it] done.
Memorandum: That Mr. Wadlow did not appear this day. He is to be summoned to attend my Lords on Wednesday to perfect his accounts according to the rule my Lords made and to bring in the bonds.
Notice to be given to the Trustees [for sale of Fee Farms] that certain rents belonging to the Honor of Hampton Court be not sold or contracted for but saved for the discharge of officers' fees.
Notice to be given to the Court whence the writ issued about Rowse that he was a prisoner in the custody of the Sergeant at Arms and ought not to be arrested while in the Sergeant's custody.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 55–60.]
Nov. 21.
Tuesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe, Sir Thos. Clifford.
The payment of Viscount Grandison is to be in course. Floyd to take care of this.
Send to Mr. Mounteney to enquire concerning Lord Loughborough's paper.
All the Queen's Dressers [are] to have half a year's pension paid out of the loans on the subsidy.
Mrs. Luelyn to have half a year's pension [in the same way] as the others.
Let the 150l. due to Lady Saunderson be paid out of the loans on the subsidy.
Eton College perpetuity to be settled on the same fund [the loans on the subsidy]. A year and a half to be presently so settled.
The Provost of Eton to have the impost of two tuns of Wine.
A warrant to be drawn for Agmondesham's money.
A privy seal for Major Beckford. The bill to be presented to the King.
The petition from Robert Cary, minister, is referred to Sir R. Long and Sir Ro. Howard to report how it may be done.
The petition of the town of Yarmouth is granted.
My Lords order that the Customs Commissioners every Monday present such matters as relate to the Customs and if they have names of officers that they would present they must do it by the by [ambulando] and Sir Robt. Howard for all order of surveyors or landwaiters or [such Custom officers] whose salaries are above 30l. per an. to take 1l. 10s. 0d.; and of lesser officers whose salaries are under 30l. per an. to take 15s.; and [of officers whose salaries are] below 10l. per an. [then to take] nothing. In the margin: Abbot to write out this minute fair for me [Sir Ro. Howard].
Mrs. Colvile to have 30,000l. charged on the Hearthmoney, but Mr. Coventry's money to be released and the widow Goldsmith to be assigned her money out of it.
Col. Osborne called in. He says the Commissioners of Accounts have not met. Some refuse to meet. He has used endeavours but cannot get a quorum. Lord Ashley asks when the Commission [of Accounts] ends. [They] agree [that it ends] certainly in February [next]. My Lords will move the King to send to the Commissioners of Accounts to meet, the King having business for them. The Earl of Anglesey was present and said the same, and both desired the same.
Richard Hues [nominated] by Lord Ashley's order after Bernard Howard for [the place of] a landwaiter and so in order as Mr. Kirk's letter from the King mentions.
Lord St. John and [his] partners [in the last farm of the Customs are] called in.
Warrant for a lease according to Sir C. Harbord's report upon Van der Poest's petition.
Auditor Beale to take Sir Tob. Bridge's imprest account.
Warrant for 10,000l. for the Ordnance: [to be charged] upon the London Excise.
The draft of a warrant for Lord St. John and his partners [in the last farm of the Customs, viz. for their collateral] security on the Hearthmoney [for repayment of their money advanced on their Customs Farm] is to be sent to the Attorney General to peruse. Prepare a sign manual for [the allowance of 4 per cent.] over interest till Michaelmas for Lord St. John and his partners [on their said advance money as above, the account of said over interest] being 3,809l. 14s. 8d. if rightly cast. A bill for the sign manual for the King for the total charge of Lord St. John and partners is brought in by Auditor Beale and allowed by my Lords. (Out Letters General III. p. 25.)
Write to Mr. Warton to hasten the account of the Ordnance in Col. Legg's time and since.
My Lords desire Sir John Bennet not to move the court against Viscount Fanshawe till Sir Robert Howard has spoken with him to attend to-morrow morning before my Lords sit.
Sir Thomas Williamson called in [and his petition is read on a reference from the King of Sep. 20 last]. In consideration of his father's maintaining the garrison of Newark he desires reversions of the manor and demesnes of Newark, co. Notts, and of Shimpling Park and Laiston Coney warren with their appurtenances in co. Suffolk, for his share (which is 4,000l.) of the 15,000l. with Lord Lexinton about the garrison of Newark. His petition is referred to Sir C. Harbord.
A privy seal for 600l. per an. to the Earl of Kinnoul out of the revenue of the 4½ per cent. in the Leeward Islands.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 61–3; Outletters General III. pp. 25–7.]
Nov. 22.
Wednesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Mr. Hide's petition is brought in for the officers of the Robes for 677l. 19s. 6d. to be placed [charged] on the Hearthmoney in course without interest. A warrant ordered in Mr. Hide's name.
Viscount Fauconberg to have his order transferred for his ready money [expenditure in his Venetian embassy: same to be made payable] out of the loans on the subsidies now in the Exchequer.
Mr. Laurence to prepare an information against Mr. Robt. Bouy (Bovy) to shew by what right he holds Exmoor Forest from the King. (Out Letters General III. p. 27.)
By reason of Sir Thomas Allen's petition my Lords order Sir Rob. [Howard] to enquire into the whole business of the King's officers in what state they stand. Floyd to draw up this state.
Viscount Fauconberg says the 2,300l. [was] allowed to Mr. Strickland out of the 2,500l. he [Strickland] owes. Sir John Duncombe says Mr. Strickland should pay the King's money and stand upon his assignment for his [? allowances]. Viscount Fauconberg says Strickland has not left any estate but will pay the remaining 200l. Sir Tho. Clifford says they ought not to stop the King's process. Viscount Fauconberg desires permission to write to Sir Thomas Strickland about it.
Lord Colepeper and Sir Rob. Holmes called in. Lord [Colepeper] says the [Treasury] Board promised him the money he claims from Sir Rob. Holmes. Sir Rob. Holmes acknowledges that he owes money, but he desires he may pay the drummers of the Isle of Wight [the arrears] which Lord Colepeper owes [them]. My Lords order Sir Rob. Holmes to deposit the money demanded by Lord Colepeper into Sir R. Howard's hands. Lord Colepeper comes in. Ordered that he assign (out of assignments for money which he has in his hands) as much as is demanded by Sir Rob. Holms' presentments till my Lords determine how much of it must be paid or [if any at] all. Floyd's name to be used in the assignment for the use of the gunners.
A letter [read] from the Earl of Northampton. Enquire what is done in the business. ["I find nothing extant." Charnock's memoranda. Treasury Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 128.]
Two docquets of Mr. Needham's to be shewn to the King.
Sir John Talbot called in [and the following orders are taken concerning the sale of] fee farms.
(1) Upon his motion to sett rates [settle ratals, ordered that] for a reversion after Sir Edward Sidnham's life [the Trustees are] not to take under ten years' purchase: if eleven years' purchase [be paid payment may be half in paper orders and] half money; if ten years' [purchase then payment to be] all money.
(2) [In the similar reversionary case of] several rents of 220l. [aggregate value per an.] granted to James Nelthorpe: [ordered] the reversion to be valued at 11 years and 10 years as in the above case.
(3) All Fee Farms where they have not letters patent to be sold as in hand and if it extends to any person of merit my Lords will consider for their recompense.
Send for the seven Auditors [of the Exchequer Court] to attend my Lords on Friday. The Trustees for the Fee Farms to attend then.
Petition read from Benjamin Skutt. They move for a privy seal to be placed on the four and a half per cent. duty: "those that have orders to be placed so by course of those orders of Council as they direct according to the report of the Commissioners of the Treasury for that order." Floyd to take care of it.
Sir Francis Clarke's petition referred to Sir Rob. Long, Sir Ro. Howard and Mr. Sherwyn.
A copy of the Order of Council concerning the Irish [revenue] farmers is to be sent to Viscount Ranelagh, and he is to attend my Lords about it on Monday afternoon.
Write the Chancellor of the Duchy that he would order his auditor to do the same as my Lords have ordered [their seven Exchequer Court and two Imprest] auditors as in the paper copy of directions sent to the auditors of the revenue, &c.
Mr. Wadlow and the officers of the Wine duty and the auditor are to attend my Lords on Wednesday morning next.
Send to the late Farmers of the Customs that they forthwith bring in to Auditor Aldworth their accounts about [the collections of the additional duty of] 4l. per tunn on the Wine Act during the time it was received at the Custom House, and meantime to pay in such money as they have received upon that accompt: also to give my Lords an account [of their proceedings herein] on Friday morning next: also on Monday next to bring in to my Lords the bonds that have been given upon the Wine accompt and to [let my Lords] know whether the 40,000l. be accepted [by said Farmers as the allowance for their defalcations] and why they pay not the rent due from them on their late farm. (Out Letters General III. p. 29.)
Sir R. Long to attend on Friday morning about Mrs. Colvile's orders: and to enter no orders in the mean time.
Ordered that Col. Birch and the other Commissioners of the Wine Act bring in the accounts of the [Wine Act] Commissioners of the out districts.
[Ordered] that [the] informers query upon [? carry on] a trial against Templeman and Alenn and my Lords having ordered only their charges, if they will recover they will gratify them. In the margin: Floyd to ask Col. Birch whether he would have this by my Lords' order from me [Sir Ro. Howard] or under my Lords' hands.
Mr. Montague's petition is to be presented by my Lords to the King.
Col. Birch and the other [others the Excise Commissioners] and Mr. Ball are to meet Sir Ro. Howard at the Exchequer Chamber on Saturday morning.
Mr. Bond's petition is referred to the Trustees for the [late] Queen Mother's revenue. ("Lloyd will enquire for it.")
Ordered that warrants be prepared for the Earl of Oxford [for his fees as Chief Justice in Eyre].
Ordered that Nixon be sent for into custody by the Serjeant at Arms: but Sir Ro. Howard to take care that the fees be moderate. Let the serjeant speak with Sir Ro. Howard.
Ordered that a letter be sent to Sir John Bankes to certify my Lords whether Mr. Wadlow has paid interest for 25,000l. to the day the tallies were struck on the Excise. (Out Letters General III. p. 27.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 64–7; DCXXIV. p. 128.]
Nov. 23. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Warrant for a lease according to Sir C. Harbord's report for Vanderpoest.
10,000l. warrant for the Ordnance.
Lord Loughborough's paper. Mr. Mountney to give certificate. Ned has been spoke to divers times to bring it.
Warrants in my hands:—
Sir H. De Vic.
Officers at Newcastle.
Keen's long warrant.
Prince Rupert (delivered to Lloyd).
Officers in Welsh creeks.
Query: about caveats.
Commissioners of Accounts.
Watkins, &c.
Lluellin. Worrall.
Bolton. [Mr.] Carlisle note.
Mr. Powell.
Memorandum: Capt. Jay's suspension.
Mr. Fettiplace's tallies.
Mr. King's minute and papers.
Mr. Spencer's request.
Mdme. Royer.
A solicitor for Mr. King.
To speak to Sir Jno. [Duncombe] about Mr. Dee.
Mr. King's petition.
Send for Mr. Mountney's certificate and get Mr. Dee'
query: name.
Northampton.
Fettiplace: Worrall: Lock: Dee: Pendrell: King:
[Earl of] Stamford: [Mr.] Carlisle: Sellinger:
Enter St. Leger's papers.
Mr. Laneer's warrant to be amended according to the certificate.
Col. Warcup's two businesses.
[Treasury Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 128.]
Nov. 24.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Enquire of Sir R. Long whether Fenn and Porter have paid according to their paper about Prettyman.
Sir R. Howard, Sir R. Long and Sir C. Harbord are to advise how the warrant for 800l. payable by the Cashier General of the Customs to Sir Henry Devic, now lately deceased, as Chancellor of the Order of the Garter, and still remaining unpaid, being for the poor Knights of Windsor, may be paid to the Bishop of Salisbury, whom the King has appointed to succeed Sir Henry de Vic, the said bishop's grant being not yet passed, but the necessities of the said poor Knights requiring much despatch. (Out Letters General III. p. 28.)
Sir Rob. Atkins, Sir Lionell Jenkins and Sir Jo. Birkenhead to attend my Lords on Wednesday morning about the dispensation concerning the law bill.
Sir William Bucknall's petition for fee farms is to be presented by my Lords to the King.
Send to Dr. Wren and the officers of the Works to speak with Sir John Duncombe about planting Hyde Park.
[Ordered that] any accounts of the Royal Aid and of all other assessments are not to be declared [i.e. presented to the Barons of the Exchequer for their declaring thereof] till my Lords are first acquainted with the accounts. [This to be notified] to the Auditors. (Out Letters General III. p. 30.)
Mr. John Portman's tallies are to be ordered on the Customs next after the money now charged: [and are to be paid] with interest at 6 per cent.
Mr. Miller's Hearthmoney account for Cambridge is declared.
Process to be stayed against Mr. Harlackenden and his security.
The Duke of Richmond's papers: desire only abatement of rent.
The Auditors are called in, shewing some accounts and then they withdrew and Lord Ashley moved [that] Mr. Sherwin, Col. Web and Mr. Filingham [were] proper men to view the accounts not only on the Chimney money but on all other branches [of the revenue and so to be] always provided [equipped and enabled] to acquaint my Lords what debts owing to the King were good and what seemed desperate. Lord Ashley tells of arrears that were begged to [so late a date as] 1668, which was very unreasonable. The Treasurer of the Household directs Sir Rob. Howard with Sir Ste. Fox to end the account of the Militia money which the Secretaries have not before them. (In the margin: Aram to remind me [Howard] of it.)
Mr. Sherwin, Mr. Filingham and Col. Webb are to make search what arrears are standing out upon all revenues, supplies, benevolences and grants whatsoever.
Write to Sir Dennis Gauden to know whose accounts stand between him and Lionell Walden. Gauden to speak with me [Sir R. Howard] about this.
My Lords order me [Sir R. Howard] to accept of 1,000l. of Weeden's security and to have him released.
Mr. Doyle's account for Nottinghamshire is declared.
George Johnson, recommended by the Earl of Lauderdale and Lord Ashley, is to be appointed a landwaiter.
The Trustees for Fee Farms called in [and the following directions concerning fee farms are made].
[Ordered that] two schedules be made, one of the perpetuities [perpetual pensions, stipends and payments allowed upon the annual accounts and] paid in each respective Auditor's office and the other of what particular rents and Tenths they conceive fit [to be reserved from sale and to be settled for payment of the said perpetual pensions and stipends] to answer those [perpetuities] as the Act for the sale of Fee Farms directs; allowing 5 per cent. over and above for the charge of collecting. (Warrants Early XLIII. p. 62.)
Send to all the Auditors to make out the small rents with what speed they can.
Auditor Aldworth finds many rents are wrong transcribed; but the Treasurer of the Household says the Act of Parliament rectifies the same.
The Treasurer of the Household directs an account [to be prepared by the] Trustees, viz. of what [amount of Fee Farms] is contracted for in the whole, how much by bills, how much in money has been paid, how much in half money and what interest has been deducted for the latter moiety. (In the margin: The Trustees have taken notice of this.)
There being present occasion for my Lords to inspect the rolls of Kent and Surrey for the Hearthmoney, which are in the office of Viscount Fanshawe, King's Remembrancer write the King's Remembrancer for them to be delivered to Mr. Sherwyn, Col. Web and Mr. Filingham, for them to make copies thereof and then to return them again to the King's Remembrancer's office. (Out Letters General III. p. 31.)
Ordered that the Consul of Algiers have 200l. transferred to the Customs, and a new warrant to be drawn for 250l. of [arrears on] his pension of 100l. per an.
Against the method of Widow Colvile's orders Sir John Duncombe demands to know:
(1) What the interest is that is to be transferred on the Hearthmoney.
(2) Whether it may not break the whole Register of the Hearthmoney to have the interest of said orders carried on [said register].
(3) Whether that interest may not be stated and made original.
Send to Mr. Laurence about the account of the [Crown law actions and costs of the] Term.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 68–71.]
Nov. 24. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Lord Loughborough: Mr. Mountney to send a certificate of what is due to him.
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 128.]
Nov. 27.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Mr. Offley's orders are to be transferred to the Customs in course.
Mr. Scriven's business is urged by Lord Newport for his discharge on the petition. My Lords order process to be stayed against the Commissioners of Shropshire that are liable for Hickman's deficit for so much as comes to 730l. according to Col. Scriven's petition. To be done with speed. Send for Mr. Laurence.
Lord Newport's petition is referred to Sir C. Harbord to make a state of it. (Out Letters General III. p. 32.)
Thomas Preston's petition [read] for [my Lords] to change his brother for him [in the office of] a King's waiter. My Lords to acquaint the King with it.
[Petition read concerning] raw hides. The petition to be communicated to Mr. Dewie with notice to attend my Lords on Monday next. In the margin: write to Mr. Dewie to be here about it or to speak with me [Sir R. Howard] on Wednesday afternoon.
Order is given for a new privy seal for Mr. Montague for 1,964l. 14s. 9d.
Warrant for 200l. for Mrs. Jane Bartly, being a year's pension.
Send to the Attorney General to sue out a scire facias to vacate the patent constituting Christopher Jay Receiver of Crown Revenues for Norfolk and Huntingdon. (Out Letters General III. p. 31.)
Sir George Downing came in. He says there were many orders in the case of King and Smith, Receiver of Suffolk. He says he writ many letters for under people to pay in their rents and he shews he had order in other cases. The Treasurer of the Household excepts [against Downing] that he should not take up a particular man that was in suspence. He [Downing] says King was not in suspence when he [Downing] writ the letter.
The Customs Commissioners called in [and the following directions are made concerning the Customs].
The said Commissioners delivered in a paper. Lord Ashley took it and [subsequently] restored it to me [Sir R. Howard] noted in the margin: to be put in order.
The next [vacant] tidesman's place [is to be secured] for one May, recommended by Sir Jo. Duncombe.
Sir William Tompson moves that since there must be no Custom officers in Jersey and Guernsey my Lords will write to the Governor to have a strict charge; to examine upon oath and to be strict upon all vessels coming from the Plantations. My Lords to move the King in Council [for this and for said Governor] to do the same things as [Customs] officers should do.
Booke Bookey to be prosecuted. Mr. Prowse to take care hereof.
Summon Henry Haworth to bring Dutton, Abraham and Starmer to the Treasury on Monday next. Mr. Lawrence will direct how to find them. (In the margin: send to Mr. Francis Finch at the Duchy House.)
My Lords will appoint an assistant for the Northern circuit with the riding survey.
Ordered that Mr. Hall's business be done according Sir R. Long and Sir C. Harbord's report. The King to be moved to grant his warrant to the Attorney General to discharge the information against Gorge.
An immediate extent ordered for Mr. Smith against the party.
Counsel [is heard in the case of the petition of the town of Penryn] about the coinage towns.
Serjeant Barton gives reasons: moves for further time [erased].
Col. Titus says they have the stannary law and they desire lawyers [erased].
Mr. Offley says a caveat was put in four months ago and may presume they knew why they entered the caveat.
Col. Titus says the latter end of the Term. They want lawyers.
All sides agree the cause to be heard on Friday morning next Sir C. Harbord, Sir R. Long, the Earl of Bath and the officers in general of the Stannaries [to be present].
Ordered that certain papers from the Trustees for Fee Farms be considered to-morrow.
Sir Rob. Viner and Alderman Backwell called in. The order for the Customs Farmers to collect the additional duty of 4l. per tun [on wines] came [from the Treasury to the Customs Farmers on the] 27th of October [and was in operation from that date] to the 19th Dec. exclusive.
[Ordered that] letters [be sent] to the several customers and Comptrollers of the outports to send in a particular of the several entries as a charge of the said additional duty from said Oct. 27 or from the time each such officer received notice of it to the 19th Dec. inclusive, [specifying] what was received in ready money and what in bonds. Mr. Marsh will send in a list of the ports. To be done by to-morrow [so as] to be signed before my Lords rise if possible. [In the margin: Aram to get them writ out]. Auditors Beale and Wild to attend the Treasury to meet the late Farmers of the Customs, Sir Rob. Viner and Alderman Backwell, on Wednesday morning.
To-morrow week both pretenders to Fox Hall (Foxhall) are to be heard. Give them notice.
Petition read from John Berkeley. Referred to Mr. Sherwin, Col. Webb and Mr. Filingham.
Sir Gilbert Talbot: a warrant [ordered] according to his letter.
Enquire about the state of the 5,000l. for Madame [the Duchess of Orleans] whether an order has been [made out] on a former privy seal. In the margin: Wolsely to send to Mr. Burges to know if any order has been [made out] and to send the date of the warrant.
Alderman Backwell says the Portugal money [received by him as in further part of the Queen Consort's dowry] is 20 per cent. debased: and therefore [is desired] to attend Lord Arlington [to urge] that his Lordship speak with the Portugal ambassador about it. And withal [the Treasury clerks are] to look over our papers [here at the Treasury] to see [the nature of] Mr. Parry's [powers of] control of Mr. Backwell's agent. Send to Mr. Williamson to know what papers he has concerning it.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 71–4.]
Nov. 27. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Portugal envoy: 20 tuns of wine customs free. Great Customs Book 140f.
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 129.]
Nov. 28.
Tuesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
To remember John Collinson's petition to be waiter and searcher at Grimsby.
Mr. Hide to have an order for the officers of the Robes for 677l. Look out the papers this afternoon.
Sir William Smith to have his money placed on the Hearthmoney.
Mrs. Colvile's 30,000l. to be assigned and the interest grown due to be made principal.
Sir Robt. Howard to speak with the Comptroller of the Mint and Mr. Slingsby about Doyly's recompence.
Mr. Clement to be an assistant to the Northern Riding Surveyor with a salary of 160l. per an.
Sir William Doyley called in. He objects they did collect money but paid him none. The collectors under him present a petition for a day to be heard and say they have paid. Lord Ashley asks when they began to be employed. Their deputations commenced at Lady Day, 1670. Sir William Doyley reads an affidavit whereby it appears that he did forbid them to receive [any further moneys on account of their collection]. Referred to Sir Edmund Sawyer to state the accompt between Sir William Doyley and the several persons summoned; and also to state what moneys have been paid to Mr. Robinson. Ordered that said Robinson [be given leave] upon good security to go to accompt. Sir William Doyley to produce all books [and] to go on in the account. If he [Robinson] can go to accompt on security [my Lords are content], if not to go in custody. William Mitchell deputed by Robinson in Sir William Doyley's name. Mitchell no money in his hands, a release read from Robinson to Mitchell, who first employed [said] Mitchell. Mitchell to be discharged without fees. This day week the Auditor is to bring in the account. Sir Ro. Howard is to send to him to hasten the same [so as to have it ready] by that time.
The Masters of Chancery to have a warrant to the Tellers to have what is detained and for the future to settle the same [their salary] on the Customs to be paid by Mr. Mounteney.
Lady Harvy's matter is moved and deferred till another time.
Benjamin Goslyn (erased and in lieu thereof is written Anthony Hill) to be a tidesman in Edmund Aram's place in Bristol port: Edmund Aram to be a landwaiter in Bristol port in place of John Fant, discharged for inability to execute the place; Benjamin Goslyn to be next landwaiter at Bristol by command of Lord Ashley. (Warrants Early XLIII. p. 83).
A privy seal for 1,050l. for the purchase of Holy Island. Mr. Lister concerned [herein]. The Attorney General to be sent to to prepare with all possible speed the conveyance of the royalties thereof from the possessor to the King. (Out Letters General III. p. 32).
Sir Robert Long to attend to-morrow about the old Customs tallies. The paper about same is to be looked out.
Concerning Holder's ship my Lords are of opinion that as to the allowance of what is desired it is not fit. But upon this occasion my Lords are of opinion that this ship shall come in and pay only native custom. This to be reported to the King.
Mr. Backer to be a tidewaiter in London port: [on the recommendation of] Sir J. Duncombe.
Petition read from Butler Buggins praying the King's pardon for the misdemeanur of delivering out a bond that did discharge a port cocquet: he being an attorney of the King's Remembrancer's office: same having been referred to the Treasury Lords on the 31st Oct. last. Write Lord Arlington that my Lords have spoken with the King concerning the matter and the King is pleased to grant the pardon. Order to be given for Mr. Baggins' pardon to proceed. (Out Letters General III. p. 32.)
Mr. Marriott to have two years' salary as keeper of the Standing Wardrobe, &c., at Hampton Court.
Mr. Dee to be a deputy searcher when any [nominations of] such officers shall be proposed by the Customs Commissioners.
Ordered that Edward Rockwood be a tidesman in London port: on the recommendation of the Duke of Richmond.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 75–7; DCXXIV. p. 129].
Nov. 28. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Earl of Pembroke's creation money: [warrant for] a year.
Herlakenden: stop process.
Consul Ward.
E[arl of] Stamford.
Mr. Carlisle.
To speak with L. [Lloyd as to] the draft of a warrant for the King's hand for money charged on the late Queen's revenue.
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 129.]
Nov. 29.
Wednesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Send again to Sir Dennis Gauden about the state of things between him and Mr. Lionell Walden: to speak with me [Sir Ro. Howard] about it.
My Lords refer the petition of Sir Philip Howard and Sir [sic, erratum for Mr.] George Dashwood (about assigning his tenancy of the farm of the Excise of North Wales to Devereux Pember) to Mr. Sherwin, Col. Webb and Mr. Filingham [viz. to report] as to the sufficiency of said Devereux Pember that is offered [as new tenant thereof]. (Out Letters General III. p. 33.)
Write Sir John Norton, Mr. Stukeley, Sir Rob. Dilington, Sir Rob. Holmes, Col. Richard Norton, Thomas Knowles, Phillip Leigh, Henry Bromfeild to examine the truth of a certificate returned by Mr. Tippets to the Commissioners of the Navy concerning abuses and waste committed by Capt. Deane and his carpenters in fitting 600 trees felled by a Treasury Warrant for building ships of war. In the margin: Lord St. John will inform me more.
Sir Robt. Atkins [called in concerning stamp duties on letters of dispensation out of the Ecclesiastic Courts] says that by the Act where there-is two dispensations they should pay. But the incumbents take out no dispensation. Sir John Birkenhead moves:
(1) That the King in his donations should order a clause that none should be installed before he has sued out his dispensation.
(2) For the rest of the dignities in the gift of either the King or the bishop the King to write to them to the same effect as he does in his own to do in like manner.
(3) For benefices in the King's gifts in all presentments the same, whether disposed of by the Lord Keeper or the Chancellor of the Duchy [of Lancaster, to do the like, viz. to order] that before institution they produce letters of dispensation.
(4) For private benefices by gift of common patrons Sir John Birkenhead will present something for a remedy.
Mr. Slow to be a landwaiter in London port: [on the nomination of Sir John Duncombe; John Mushie to be same ibid. [on the nomination of] Lord Ashley.
A privy signet [ordered] for Edward Nicholas, Receiver General of the Alienation Office, to receive the new duty upon writs of entry and writs of covenant.
[Ordered that] on Tuesday morning Lord Chief Justice Hale, Lord Chief Justice Vaughan, and the Chief Baron of the Exchequer be desired to attend my Lords about the Law Bill.
Sir Thomas Williamson's business to be prepared by Sir Ro. Howard.
Mr. Cooke to have the benefit of the King's proclamation for taking two thieves.
Col. Birch and Mr. Croane called in about decayed wines. Mr. Croan can make no proofs. Nothing done.
An order for 1,008l. to be paid to Mr. Ball from the Farmers of the London Excise.
Thomas Spicer [re] commended by Mr. Peter Prideaux. See if Lord Ashley approves. Lord Ashley does approve.
Sir Robt. Viner and Alderman Backwell [called in]. They proceed to show how their accounts [as late Customs Farmers] stand to Michaelmas, 1670. The Farmers owe the [item or balance of] 182l. 16s. 2d., but they crave allowance [of it]. For Michaelmas, 1671, upon the whole there appears about 2,400l. due to the Farmers if [the King] allows 40,000l. for defalcations. My Lords propose that they shall have 40,000l. charged on the Customs in course. A warrant to be prepared with speed. [Ordered] to allow the interest at six months' end and [so similarly every successive] six months, which Auditor Beale has taken notice of. Alderman Backwell moves about debentures [viz.] to state the case.
The prayer of Mr. Swift's (Richard Swift's) petition (viz. for Thomas Tothall to be admitted a landwaiter in London port) is referred to the Customs Commissioners to report the fitness or ability of Thomas Tothall for said office. (Out Letters General III. p. 34.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 77–80.]
Nov. 29. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Mr. Gips: to stay process against him till next term [as Receiver of Aids for] Suff[olk]. To stay. Query: Mr. Aram.
Earl of Northampton: warrant for a year's creation money.
Rustat.
Estcourt.
Ward.
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 129.]