Entry Book: February 1681, 12-19

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 7, 1681-1685. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1916.

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'Entry Book: February 1681, 12-19', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 7, 1681-1685, (London, 1916) pp. 34-48. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol7/pp34-48 [accessed 20 April 2024]

February 1681

Date. Nature and Substance of the Entry. Reference.
Feb. 12. Money warrant for 398l. 13s. 6d. to Sir Robert Southwell for a bill of extraordinaries 1679–80, March 1, to 1680, Nov. 14, as late Envoy Extraordinary to the Elector of Brandenburg: to be paid out of such of the moneys of the Queen's [Portugal money or] portion as shall be paid into the Exchequer by Francis Parry. Money Book II, pp. 335–7. Order Book XXXVIII, p. 200.
Appending: bill of said extraordinaries as allowed the 8th inst. by Sir L. Jenkins:—
l. s. d.
for passing a privy seal 26 7 6
for Exchequer fees upon 955l. that was advanced 22 19 6
in gratuities to the yacht that transported him to Holland 15 0 0
in gratuities to trumpets, drums, postage [post hire], and such like charges from Rotterdam by the Hague unto Hamburg and from thence to Berlin, as per account 30 0 0
more laid out in the necessary expenses of that journey, being 34 days upon the way, and which cost over and above his allowance of 5l. a day, as per account 25 0 0
charges at Berlin and Potsdam on the account of his first audience with the Elector, as per account 11 6 0
to the ministers of the French Protestant church at Berlin and to the Elector's servants upon several extraordinary occasions during his stay there 14 19 6
mourning for the two Electors of Saxony and of the Palatinate 20 0 0
to the Postmaster of Berlin during seven months, also for some carriage extraordinary and for several journeys to Potsdam to the Elector in that time, as per account 42 19 8
given at his departure to the Elector's servants, viz.: the officers of the stables, kitchen, wine - celler, trumpets, etc., according to custom 42 6 0
paid Sir Peter Wyche at Hamburg his two bills for postage of letters passing constantly through his hands between England and Berlin during the whole service and in some gratuity to his servant who kept the accompt and to some officers of that place as per bills 60 10 4
to the yacht which transported him from Hamburg to London 25 0 0
to Mr. Chaumont for the conveyance of letters at Brussels and to Sir Richard Bulstrode's clerk there for papers sent 10 0 0
paid at the post-house in London by Mr. Blathwayte and Phillip Madox for letters, and also for pamphlets sent, as per accompt 22 5 0
to Exchequer fees for 840l. advanced to complete his daily allowance and for the fees of this bill 30 0 0
£398 13 6
(Money order dated Feb. 15 hereon.)
Feb. 12. Henry Guy to Cha. Duncombe to take care of the payment of the 1,000l. this week to the use of the Office of Ordnance according to your promise. In the margin: to Mr. Leese. Out Letters (General) VI, p. 179.
Same to Mr. Trant to return the draft privy seal for assigning the surplus of the Hearthmoney. The persons concerned in it do press for the finishing thereof. Ibid.
Same to the Excise Commissioners to attend the Treasury Lords on Monday next at the hearing of the business between Alderman Wilcocks and Dugall Steward, William Chandler, William Smal, John Groone and the rest of the [Excise] Farmers' gaugers and Richard Henshaw, the King's gauger, concerning an overcharge on Oct. 21 last on said Alderman Wilcox. (The like notice to said Excise Farmers and to Sir Robt. Sawyer.) Ibid, p. 180.
Treasury reference to the Commissioners of the [King's] Stables, the Surveyor General [of Crown Lands] and the Surveyor General and Comptroller of the Works of the following proposal of Dr. Barbone. Reference Book I, pp. 212–3.
Prefixing: said proposal for building new stables for the King [in return or in consideration] for a grant [to petitioner] of the King's old Mews: the new building being according to a design with stalls for 200 horses and 20 coach houses being more than the present Mews contain: the apartments for the King's and Queen's Master of the Horse, the Equerries and other persons who have the right to lodge within the Mews will be larger and pleasanter situated than now, being designed in the range of building next the Park; the new stables will be nearer the Palace, the Thames and the fields for breathing and good watering of horses: the value of the old Mews to be reckoned as if sold for ready money; the design contains 403 [? feet] square of building upon the flat which at 50l. per square comes to 20,159l., the value of the ground as it costs and may let for to build is 6,500l. and interest for the whole money for 1½ years before any returns can be made is about 2,400l., the whole amounting to 29,050l., "which is more than would be given for the present Mews was it to be paid in money, but that there is some profit to the undertaker by this exchange of building and no loss to the King for it would cost his Majesty much to build and saves his Majesty 20,000l. by the exchange." There is a necessity by this design to build on an angle of his Majesty's ground at one end to make the front conform to his Majesty's walks, which otherwise would stand awry. This ground will be no advantage to the builder, as it only increases the frontage and so enlarges the expense of building. The value of the old Mews is thus computed, viz.: 3,360 foot of front ground at 10s. per foot, which is 1,680l. per an. ground rent, which at 20 years' purchase is 33,600l. This shows the full value, as though some parts are worth more than 10s. per foot, other parts being for single houses or worse situated are not worth 10s. per foot. The old materials, which are about 500 [? foot] square on the flat, are valued at 3l. per square, which is 1,500l., making a total of 35,100l. Considering the vast sum which must be laid out to make this a ground rent, the undertaker could not afford to give 30,000l. for the [old] Mews, but the exchange being made by building it is some advantage to the builder, though it is the same thing to the King.
Feb. 12. Treasury reference to William Harbord, Surveyor General of Crown Lands, of the petition of John, Earl of Bridgewater, for a new lease for 31 years of the hundred of Bucklow, co. Chester, as granted 1606, Aug. 9, to petitioner's father for the lives of him, Francis Leigh and Peter Egerton, at 47s. per an. Reference Book I, p. 214.
Same to Sir Richard Mason, et al [Agents for Taxes] of the petition of Matthew Jenison, Receiver General for co. Notts, of the Seventeen Months' Assessment. Poll and Eighteen Months' Assessment, he having lost 1,100l. by returns [of his moneys to London] and being robbed of 379l. which cost him money to recover, and being at a charge of above 10s. per 100l. in conveying his money up [to London] by guards and carriers: prays consideration of his case. Ibid.
Same to Mr. Johnson, Paymaster of the Forces, of the petition of Tho. Silver for 16l. for fire and candle for the gunners attending the guns [at _ fort] to Dec. 31 last; which sum said Johnson alleges he cannot pay without a supply of money from the Treasury Lords. Ibid, p. 215.
Same to Mr. Blathwayte, Auditor [of the Plantations] of the petition of Sir Charles Wheeler for his account of muskets received out of the Tower and other affairs relating to his late Government of the West Indies to be audited by said Blathwayte, Auditor Aldworth, to whom same was formerly referred, being dead. Said Blathwayte is hereby to make a state of said account. Ibid, p. 216.
Same to the Customs Commissioners of Richard Farmer's petition for a noontender's place [London port]. Ibid.
Same to William Harbord, Surveyor General of Crown Lands, of Thomas Prowse's petition ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. VI, p. 732. Hereon said Harbord is to rate a fine for renewal of petitioner's lease. Ibid, pp. 216–7.
Prefixing: report thereon from Sir Heneage Finch, the Solicitor General, and Sir Robt, Sawyer. Three tenements in Taunton mentioned in the King's lease, which is assigned to Prowse, are, by express names, granted to Collins and Fenn and their heirs by grant of 1631, Dec. 8, and under the title of that grant Dr. Edsbury recovered those three tenements on a trial last Lent assizes at Taunton, at which Serjt. Stroud and Sir Robt. Sawyer were of counsel with petitioner in defence of the King's title under the lease [assigned to Prowse] and a full defence was made, but the title upon the former grant prevailed. In Mr. Prowse's lease are contained several tenements in Milverton formerly belonging to the chantry of Milverton, which Prowse says are enjoyed under a lease made by the Crown before the patent to Collins and Fenn. But we find that those chantry tenements are included by general words in the grant to Collins and Fenn. We are of opinion that neither the verdict nor [the] composition made by Mr. Prowse with Dr. Edisbury will conclude the King from bringing any information if the title appear for the King, but upon perusal of the grant of 1631 [Dec. 8] we conceive the inheritance of the three tenements in Taunton and all the chantry tenements in Milverton are well granted out of the Crown under a fee farm rent of 3l. 13s. 0d. per an.
Feb. 12. Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of the petition of [Henry Hudgson]. In a petition two months since petitioner set forth his two years' most miserable imprisonment in Albemarle [county Virginia] and his 15 months' stay with Mr. Miller here in England in pursuance of his Majesty's service, which has cost petitioner at least 80l. and the loss of his estate there: is not able to subsist longer or to return to his distressed wife and family, but is still continued with Mr. Miller by the Customs Commissioners to attend the prosecution of one George Durate, who has cheated the King of near 500l. of Customs dues in Albemarle which [sum] was taken forcibly out of the hands of said Miller and petitioner in the late rebellion there: prays money for paying his debts and for his transportation to his wife and family, not having as yet to this [day] one farthing for all his salary, service and sufferings. Reference Book I, p. 218.
Treasury warrant to William Harbord, Surveyor General of Crown Lands, for a particular and ratal of the leasehold tenement as follows, with a view to a fresh lease to John Arscot, the present possessor thereof, ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. VI, p. 763. Warrants not Relating to Money VIII, pp. 296–7
Prefixing: said Surveyor General's report on said Arscot's petition as by the reference thereof dated Dec. 13 thereon. Said tenement was petitioned for in 1677 in the name of Stranger, one Major Robert Saule, and then rated by Sir Charles Harbord for 2 lives in reversion of Ann Arscott, ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. V, p. 708, but that petitioner did not proceed thereupon, esteeming the rate too high, lands being since generally fallen in their value.
The present petitioner is in possession and the tenement has been anciently in his family. He has produced a certificate from the tenants of the manor of Bradford in Devon (whereof the premises are parcel) that the whole tenement, containing 140 acres, would not yield above 40l. per an. above the old rent of 1l. The improvement is certified but at 37l. 1s. 0d. per an. I rate a new estate for 2 lives in reversion of Ann Arscot (who is now 60 years of age) at a fine of 190l.
Same to same for a same of the woods as follow, with a view to a new lease thereof to Jno. Clement and Jno. Clerke. Ibid, p. 300.
Prefixing: report ut supra as by the order of reference dated Dec. 6 last on the petition of said Clement and Clerke. The woods contain 50 acres, called Middlewood, Westwood and Carnanswood, and were granted by Charles I when Prince by indenture dated 1624, Nov. 24, to Richard Guy, gent., for 90 years, terminable on the lives of James, John and Richard Masters, to the use of him and several tenants of the manor of Englishcombe under several rents, amounting in all to 10s. per an. They are certified to be worth 10l. 10s. 0d. more than those rents. Petitioners have now the greatest part of said woods in their possession. A new grant for 3 lives in reversion of John Masters (aged 62) is worth 50l. fine at the old rent of 10s.
Appending: Treasury warrant dated 1680–1, Mar. 15, to the Clerk of the Pipe for a fresh lease as above to Jon. Clement and John Clarke for 99 years from 1681, Lady day, determinable on three lives to be nominated with the consent of the other tenants interested therein, and on surrender of said Jon. Masters's interest.
Feb. 12. The Treasury Lords to the Earl of Ranelagh. We are informed that of 20,000l. which the King abated to Alderman John Forth and partners out of the rent of their farm in Ireland, and of [the] 10,000l. which was ordered to be repaid to them for the like sum lent to his Majesty, they have acknowledged the receipt only of 17,705l. and that thereupon the sum of 12,295l. (remainder of said 30,000l.) was allowed to them upon their last account ending 1675, Dec. 25. We are also informed that by assignation of said Forth and partners the whole 30,000l. was paid to Sir Jon. James and partners here in England out of the 60,000l. advanced by the present Farmers of the revenue in Ireland. We therefore desire of you a true state and account of this matter and whether the said Sir John James has repaid the said 12,295l. to you as Vice-Treasurer of Ireland, and if so when it was paid and how it is disposed of. Also send as a duplicate of the account of the issuing of the said 60,000l. so that we may know to what uses same was paid. Out Letters (Ireland) II, pp. 99–100.
As applications are frequently made to us for moneys which the King has appointed to be paid out of the 20,000l. per an. (on the establishment of Ireland of 1676, Mar. 25) reserved to be issued to such persons as his Majesty under his sign manual should direct, and [likewise] such other moneys as have been since added to that establishment and appointed to be issued in like manner, we desire from you a particular accompt of the several payments which have been made out of the revenues of Ireland of the aforesaid moneys at any time before Jan. 1 last, so that we may know what is already issued out thereupon and what part thereof remains undisposed of.
Feb. 14. Report to the King from the Treasury Lords on the petition of James Gibbons, praying a grant to him and William Welch of the office of Clerk of the Wardrobe of Robes and the Wardrobe of Beds upon the surrender of Richard Coling, esq. and Henry Coling his son, as by an order of reference dated Jan. 12 last from the King to the Treasury. The King being inclined to favour petitioner in regard he is a servant to the Duke of Richmond, desires, by said order of reference, that petitioners' names be changed [for those of the Colings], but withal that it be not made a precedent for the like practice in future. Warrants not Relating to Money VIII, p. 297.
Hereon the Treasury Lords report that it will be contrary to the rules laid down by the King himself and of ill consequence to your Majesty's affairs. If your Majesty shall grant it during pleasure we see no objection.
Feb. 14. Report to the King from the Treasury Lords on the petition of Capt. Edward Cornwall, as by the order of reference of Nov. 12 last, John Davis's charge as Receiver of Hearthmoney for co. Hereford for 2½ years to 1674, Mar. 25, is 5,217l. 5s. 6d. which (after allowance of 521l. 14s. 0d. for his own salary at 2s. per l.; 43l. 9s. 6d. for the constable's salary at 2d. per l.; 21l. 14s. 9d. for the Clerk of the Peace at 1d. per l.; and 19l. 5s. 10d. for the Auditor's salary at 1d. per l.; and 2,550l. for so much paid into the Exchequer) leaves 2,061l. 0s. 11d. of which said Davis craves to be allowed 673l. 8s. 0d. not received by him for several hearths (whereof he has delivered a book of particulars) within the survey of three of his deputies who were killed in the execution of their office and of two others who ran away with the money and books of account: he further offers to set 183l. 14s. 0d. in super for empty houses and houses of poor persons where no distress could be had, and 19l. 14s. 0d. for hearths in several houses demolished. If these be allowed his debt will be 1,184l. 4s. 11d. Said Davis's estate is seized and Herbert Audrey [sic for Aubrey] the other trustee for said Davis has been released from his suretyship "by reason whereof (as we are advised), the petitioner will also be discharged in equity as to a proportionable part." It being suspected that there were some private dealings between petitioner and said late Receiver to defraud your Majesty, said Davis has made an affidavit dated Feb. 9 inst., before Baron Weston, denying that there ever was any such combination, and that he [Davis] increased the said revenue in said county by 500l. per an. and did, with Deputy Auditor Raban, shew to Sir John Duncomb, late Chancellor of the Exchequer, the schedule of arrears amounting to 673l. 8s. 0d. and desired liberty to collect them, but could not obtain the same. Petitioner Cornwall had also sworn the 12th inst. that he never had any money of the said receipts. Petitioner deserves well for former services, loyalty and sufferings, and is reduced so low that he is wholly unable to satisfy any part of this debt. We consider him a proper object of your Majesty's grace. Warrants not Relating to Money VIII, pp. 301–2.
Treasury warrant to Sir Nicholas Crispe, collector outwards London port, to swear Sir Francis Leeke into office as one of the two searchers of Gravesend, vacant by the death of Thomas Chiffinch. Ibid, p. 303.
The Treasury Lords to Lord Conway [a Principal Secretary of State]. By an order of the King in Council dated 1677–8, Jan. 31, it is required that all warrants, &c. [sent] into Ireland for disposing any of the revenue of Ireland not comprised in the civil and military lists there established, should be first communicated to the Treasury Lords. We are informed that some letters or directions in such cases as above have, nevertheless, been formerly obtained and sent into Ireland without our knowledge. We desire you to see this order complied with and also that what returns shall be made upon such warrants, &c., from the Lord Lieutenant may also be communicated to us before any further progress be made therein, to the end we may have it in our power from time to time to represent to the King matters of convenience or inconvenience when such directions [letters, warrants, &c.] are desired relating to the revenue or treasure of Ireland. (The like letter to Sir Leoline Jenkins, a Principal Secretary of State.) Out Letters (General) VI, pp. 180–1.
Feb. 14. Henry Guy to the Navy Commissioners. From your letter to me of July 23 last it appears that in the list of Navy creditors, upon account of the French war, transmitted by you to the Treasury Lords and settled by them upon the Hearthmoney, there was one bill inserted, No. 307, for 328l. 9s. 2d., as a debt due to Capt. Phil. Lanyon, which you have since found to have been paid to him formerly; and [on the other hand] that two bills proper to the said service [of a war with the French King] which did not appear when the said list was made, are now claimed, viz., one in the name of John Geddis for 244l. 4s. 4d., the other in the name of Arthur Ree for 64l. 16s. 1d. By his letter of Jan. 30 last said Capt. Lanyon has certified my Lords that he has received his sum as above long before, being for so much disbursed by him for the repair of his Majesty's hulk Elias in Plymouth port, and that he has cleared his accounts with you for the same. You are therefore hereby to assign the payment of the above bills of Geddis and Ree out of the sum of 328l. 9s. 2d. wrongly inserted in said list as above. You are to reserve the remainder of the said 328l. 9s. 2d. for my Lords' further direction. Out Letters (General) VI, p. 182.
Treasury warrant to the Customs Commissioners to permit the Victuallers of the Navy to ship off from time to time victuals for Tangier and other ports in the Mediterranean for the King's service by a free cocquet; and to repay to the said Victuallers any moneys deposited by them for the customs of victuals already shipped. Out Letters (Customs) V, p. 313.
Henry Guy to the Auditor of the Receipt to issue out of such Excise money as shall this week be paid into the Exchequer 3,000l. to Mr. Johnson for offreckonings of the Forces; 500l. to the Cofferer for the purveyors and 250l. to Mris. Eleanor Gwynn. Disposition Book II, p. 49.
Same to same to issue to me [Guy] for secret service up to 500l. of the moneys of the Tenths and First Fruits now in or that shall come into the Exchequer. Ibid.
Treasury reference to the Auditors of Imprests of the petition of Edward Seymour, Deputy Clerk of the Hanaper, shewing that the office of Clerk or Keeper of the Hanaper is a very ancient office and in the late King's time when the Court of Wards, the Star Chamber and the Wine Licences were [still kept] up and did pass under the great seal and through the Hanaper the office was then of a very considerable value, but now those branches being all taken off and the profits arising by the great seal being very inconsiderable, but the charge of passing the accounts as great as ever, besides the deputy [clerk's] charge and attendance for the account every year before the auditors, the Barons of the Exchequer, the King's Remembrancer, and Lord Treasurer's Remembrancer, which, in all, costs at least 40l. per an. for which no allowance is made, whereas other officers of greater value have such allowances: therefore prays to be allowed to detain 40l. per an. for said charge. Reference Book I, p. 215.
Feb. 14. Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of John Clerke's petition for a tidesman's place [London port]. Reference Book I, p. 218.
Same to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of John Parsons and partners, brewers, for allowance of what they have paid for Excise of beer delivered by them into the King's butteries over and above 9d. per gallon; they having contracted with the Board of Greencloth to serve beer at 6s. 9d. per barrel, since which a dispute arose with the Excise as to whether said beer should pay Excise as strong beer or small beer, which dispute was heard at the Treasury and petitioners were to pay as for strong beer and the Greencloth was to repay all such duty above 9d. per barrel [being the rate] payable for small beer; in pursuance whereof petitioners have constantly paid duty as for strong beer, but as yet have had no allowance as above. Ibid, p. 219.
Same to Auditor Stephens of the petition of Edward (now Sir Edward) Dering as referred 1679, May 9, to the Navy Commissioners with the state of his account, on which they reported 1680, Dec. 10: together with a copy of their letter of 1675, May 7, and of Sir Edward Dering's affidavit of 1680, April 22, an account of gunpowder and a Wardrobe bill for 250l. Hereon said Stephens is to make a state of said Dering's account. Ibid.
Same to the Mint Commissioners of the petition of Sir Tho. Wharton and Phil. Wharton, Wardens of the Mint in the Tower: shewing that there is a house belonging to their office, part of which is detained from them by Tho. Doyly: pray that he may be compelled to give them possession. Ibid, p. 220.
Feb. 15. Same to same of Tho. Doyly's petition praying not to be put out of abovesaid house by reason of the inconveniences and danger to his person, if he should be excluded the protection of the Tower. Ibid.
Money warrant for 1,000l. to Aubrey, Earl of Oxford, for half a year to 1679, Christmas, on his pension of 2,000l. per an: to be paid out of the moneys of First Fruits. Money Book II, p. 337.
Treasury warrant to the Receiver and the Auditor of the revenue of the Duchy of Cornwall to pay to the Bishop of Exeter 15l. for half a year to 1680, Christmas, on the 30l. per an. granted by the privy seal of 1678, Sept. 30. out of the revenue of said Duchy and to be paid over to the minister of Lostwithiel: together with dormant warrant clause for the like payment of said annuity or pension in future. Ibid, p. 338.
Same to the Auditor and Receiver of Crown revenues for co. Kent, to pay to Gabriell Hopkins the 42l. 0s. 6d. for three years to Sept. last of the two rents of 13l. 0s. 6d. [and 1l.] per an. and to pay him the like growing rents from time to time in future and to permit him quietly to enjoy same till further order from the King to the contrary: it appearing by the report of the Surveyor General of Crown Lands upon the petition of Capt. George Elsmore and Capt. Gabriell Hopkins that they together with Quartermaster Thomas Kidder were formerly officers in Col. Sir Richard Ingoldsby's regiment, who was active and instrumental in the Restoration: that, by sign manual of 1661, April 25, they were to be looked upon as meriting the King's particular grace and to all intents and purposes put into the same conditions as the Coldstreamers who were to enjoy the possession of such lands and rents belonging to the Crown, as they had purchased under the late usurpation, without account; that the said officers had inter alia purchased the lands and rents belonging to the Castle and Maison dieu of Dover the reserve rent to the Crown thereout being 24l. 4s. 6d.: that Sir Charles Harbord, by virtue of a special commission, gave order 1663, Nov. 21, for said Kidder (as authorised trustee of said officers) to receive and take the said rents; that same have been paid and allowed to said Kidder until 1677, Sept. 29, some time after which he died; that by assignment dated 1658, Aug. 27, from said Kidder to said Hopkins the lands belonging to the Maison dieu of Dover held under the rent of 13l. 0s. 6d., and also 20 acres near the Castle of Dover called Ward Close at the rent of 20s. per an. (parcel of the rent of the abovesaid 24l. 4s. 6d. per an.) were apportioned and allotted to said Hopkins and that 10l. per an. issuing out of the pasture called Warden Down further part of the said 24l. 4s. 6d. was the claim of the said Elsmore. who is deceased; and that the rent of 4l. per an. for a close called Cophill (being the remainder of said 24l. 4s. 6d.) was the claim of the said Kidder; and that no executors or administrators of the said Kidder or Elsmore are suitors or claimers of the arrears or continuance of the rents. Ibid, pp. 339–40.
Feb. 15. Henry Guy to the Master of the Great Wardrobe, forwarding a copy of an acquittance dated 1680–1, Feb. 8, given by Charles Day for 50l. paid to him by said Guy in part of 225l. 15s. 8d. for cloth delivered to the Great Wardrobe by Thomas Westly, deceased, for mourning for the Queen Mother of Portugal: said Day being executor of Anne Westly, relict of said Thomas Westly. You are to cause entries of this sum to be made in your books, so that it may be discounted when said 225l. 15s. 8d. comes to be paid at the Wardrobe. Out Letters (General) VI, p. 181.
Same to the Customs Commissioners. There will be a [meeting of the Privy] Council to morrow. The Lords would have you attend then concerning the Plantation Act. Ibid, p. 182.
Same to same to send to the Treasury Lords the last report made by William Culliford concerning Poole and Weymouth and the affidavits thereto; and a copy of the information lately put in against Mr. Clements, the riding surveyor on that coast; also to send an account how far you have proceeded in the business of Mr. Carew, the officer at the Pill, near Bristol. Ibid.
Feb. 15. Henry Guy to Mr. Trant. Bring on Thursday, without fail, the draft which I delivered to you of the grant of the Hearthmoney surplus. Out Letters (General) VI, p. 182.
The Treasury Lords to the Commissioners for co. Cambridge of the last Six Months' Assessment for the disbandment, in reply to the latter's letter of the 8th inst. concerning the arrear of 494l. 18s. 8d. standing out on said county of said tax. In order to give you all assistance in the recovery thereof from the Receiver, we, this day, summoned before us Mr. Thomas Price, one of his sureties. He affirms that the money remains in the hands of Capt. Duckett, the receiver, and therefore prays that process issue first against said Duckett and, if that fail, he is content to have the money levied upon himself. This we have condescended to, and will put the [said Duckett's] bond in suit as soon as you send it to the King's Remembrancer. Ibid, p. 183.
Same to the Duke of Ormonde [Lord Lieutenant of Ireland]. On receipt of yours of Mar. 10 last concerning the fraud endeavoured to be put on the King by the double payment of 12,295l., we have enquired of several persons concerned in the receipt of that sum in England to what account same was placed, and have also received copies of several papers relating thereto out of Ireland. We think with you that this sum will appear to be yet due to the King. Yet we find so much artifice used that, without some further light, we know not where certainly to fix it. In order hereto we have written to the Earl of Ranelagh to send us the state of this matter, but in regard his accounts are at Dublin, and that, in order to the full discovery of the truth herein, it will be necessary for us to have a view of the whole of his account as Vice-Treasurer of Ireland since 1675, Dec. 25, as also of the last account of Alderman John Forth and partners and of the account of the disposition of the 60,000l. advanced by the present Farmers of the Revenue of Ireland, we desire you to get a duplicate of all these accounts from the Auditor General of Ireland. For greater expedition send us first the said Forth's account, the 60,000l. account and the Vice-Treasurer's account next succeeding 1675, Dec. 25, and that for the last year ended 1679–80, Mar. 20. Please also get from Sir Jon. Champante, the Earl of Ranelagh's deputy, an account when he received the said 12,295l. and of whom and by whose order and how long it remained in his hands before he gave any certificate or Exchequer acquittance for it and why acquittances were not given for it in usual course when it was first received. We suppose that by a plain and direct answer thereto the practices, which have been used in this matter, will be discerned and we shall know what further proceedings to make therein. Out Letters (Ireland) II, pp. 97–99.
On Nov. 3 last we wrote you concerning the improvement of the Greenwax revenue in England (ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. VI. p. 727). We have had no reply thereto. As we are enjoined by the King to proceed speedily to a settlement of that branch of the revenue, which, at present, suffers very much from want of a regulation, we desire your answer thereto.
Feb. 17. Report to the King from the Treasury Lords on the petition of Dame Elizabeth Hamilton, relict of Sir Robert Hamilton, kt., and now wife of Jon. Shelbury (as by the order of reference thereon from the King to the Treasury Lords dated Jan. 12 last); petitioner praying relief to keep her and her family from starving, and in consideration of the loyalty of her father and deceased husband. By your Majesty's directions we have relieved petitioner by paying to her lately small sums of money, viz., 110l. from 1679, Nov. 25, to 1680, Dec. 24. Cannot advise what further bounty she may deserve. In the other part of her petition she sets forth that the Earl of Strafford and Earl of Cornbury are indebted to her now husband, and prays your Majesty to interpose with the said Earls to make assignments to her and her husband out of the said Earls' pensions. As to this we are to inform your Majesty that the said Earls' pensions cannot be, at present, paid to them by reason of your Majesty's pressing affairs. Warrants not Relating to Money, VIII, p. 303.
Henry Guy to the Customs Commissioners. Despatch your report on the petition and articles of Alexander Younger. Out Letters (General) p. 183.
Same to the Bishop of Exeter's Collector for Tenths or his agent. Process will immediately issue against you unless you pay into the Exchequer the 400l. odd shillings due for Tenths upon said bishop's account for the year ended 1679, Christmas. Ibid.
Same to the Attorney General forwarding the draft of an indenture for transferring [granting to Mr. Duck] the surplus of the Hearthmoney, and the draft of a patent to secure the repayment of 40,000l. to Mr. Duck with interest; and also the minutes of the agreement relating to both said indenture and said patent. See that they are made plain in the particulars following, viz., that the first payment (which is 6,000l.) to be made into the Exchequer, April 25 next, be clear and exempted from all defalcation and casualties whatsoever; that the 40,000l. to be repaid to Mr. Duck be made payable in course after what is now charged on the Customs; that the clause appointing him Comptroller be left out, but that all other beneficial clauses for repayment of his money and [for] free inspection of the accounts of the present managers [of the Hearthmoney] be inserted; and that the grant of the surplus be, in all respects, suitable to the said minutes as herewith sent [missing]. Ibid, pp. 182–3.
The Treasury Lords to the Commissioners for co. Stafford of the late Seventeen Months' and Eighteen Months' Assessments. Capt. John Chetwind, Receiver General for your county for said assessments, complains that he has several times acquainted you with divers sums of arrears unanswered to him, but without any redress, and has therefore prayed leave to set in his account such arrears in super on you or the county. We respite such proceeding in order to give you notice so that you may examine the Collector's and the Receiver General's accounts and cause the full money to be paid him before next term. Ibid, p. 184.
Feb. 17. The Treasury Lords to Tho. Lane, of Bentley, co. Stafford, esq. Several books, deeds, papers, bonds, bills and other writings were delivered to you by William Southall [being evidences of property], belonging to Jesuits, priests or superstitious uses. You are to re-deliver same to Mr. Southall for his Majesty's service. Out Letters(General) VI, p. 184.
Henry Guy to the Mint Commissioners. Hasten your report on the petition of John, Joseph and Phillip Roetiers and Peter Jansen, as by the reference of Nov. 4 last. Ibid, p. 185.
Same to the Farmers of unwrought wood to forthwith pay into the Exchequer 225l. in part of your last Christmas quarter's rent. Ibid.
Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of the petition of Sir Richard Edgcumbe, kt., shewing that he is seized in fee of and in the town of Stonchouse, near Plymouth, that said town breeds many seamen by continual trade of fishing and that many of said seamen lost their lives in the King's service and remarkably with the Earl of Sandwich, that in said town there is a fair, large quay fit for ships to land and load without the charge of boats, and having water enough for any ship using to trade in those parts and also convenient cellarage for securing goods, that till within a few years said quay was always made use of as a public quay, and an officer [of the Customs] did and still doth belong to the said town, so that no further charge did accrue to the King, there having been other officers sent thither from Plymouth on extraordinary occasions; that there is generally great hazard in sending goods by sea from Hamoaze, which is near Stonehouse, to Plymouth [for entry there], and those that live at Stonehouse are at no small charge in bringing them home thence, that the taking off of the accustomed privilege of this quay [by compelling entry at Plymouth] has destroyed the greatest [part of the] trade at Stonehouse and forced several of the inhabitants to remove and impoverished those that remain: therefore prays that the said quay and the ancient privilege thereof may be inspected [and restored by being made a lawful quay for entry, &c.] Reference Book I, p. 221.
Royal warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General for a great seal for a fresh Commission of Excise: the new Commissioners to be Sir Deny Ashburnham, bart., Francis Parry, Robt. Huntington, Charles Davenant, Doctor of Civil Law, and Edward Wingate: with power to nominate sub-commissioners and other subordinate officers, to manage the revenue when not in farm, to re-assume any farm for non-payment of rent or breach of conditions, according to orders and instructions from time to time from the King or the Treasury Lords: with a salary of 500l. per an. each, payable quarterly: the first payment to be at Lady day next: and with power to proceed for all arrears and to perfect all matters left unperfected by the former Commission, which is hereby superseded. King's Warrant Book VIII, p. 95.
Royal warrant to the Clerk of the Signet for a privy seal to pardon, release and discharge John Lloyd, Receiver General for cos. Brecon and Radnor, of the 1666 Poll, and the One Months' Assessment of 1665, and the Eleven Month's Assessment of 1667, and Receiver for South Wales and Monmouth of the subsidy of 1671: viz., of and from the sums following: viz., 9l. 9s. 11d. which he is indebted on his account of the Poll, 50l. 14s. 4¾d. which he is indebted on the account of the One Month's and the Eleven Months' Assessments, and 274l. 19s. 2¼d. which he is indebted on the account of the subsidy: making 335l. 3s. 6d. in all, and also all interest and damage for non-payment of the same. When his said accounts are passed and cleared, his bonds are hereby to be delivered up and cancelled. King's Warrant Book VIII, pp. 96–7.
Feb. 19. Henry Guy to the Customs Commissioners, forwarding a paper [missing] of the Governor and Company of adventurers of England trading into Hudsons Bay. Certify the Treasury Lords whether the East India Co., the Africa Co. and other incorporated companies of merchants enjoy the privileges therein mentioned. Out Letters (General) VI, p. 185.
Same to the Excise Commissioners to set up in the most public place in the Excise Office the following notice: viz., the Treasury Lords will be ready at the Treasury Chambers on Saturday, the 26th inst., to receive proposals for the farm of the Excise from June 24 next. Ibid.
Same to Major Huntingdon. The Treasury Lords have, this day, ordered payment of 160l. out of Excise money for [the Excise of beer for the North Sea herring or] Yarmouth fishery. Ibid.
Same to Col. Strode. The enclosed petition against you has been presented to the Treasury Lords. Send them your reply thereto as soon as possible. Ibid, p. 186.
Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of the petition of Joseph Ash for a weighing porter's place in extraordinary, his father being a great sufferer for his loyalty. Reference Book I, p. 221.
[?] Henry Guy to the Ordnance Commissioners, forwarding for their report thereon the petition of Mris. Mary Browne, same having been referred to the Treasury Lords by the King. Ibid, p. 222.
Appending: said petition shewing that there is due to her 4,814l. for round shot, Granado shells and other goods delivered to the [Ordnance] Stores upon contract for ready money more than three years since, the interest thereon for three years being 864l., or 5,678l. in all; further that there is due to her 9,720l. for 243 tons of turned guns delivered into the stores above two years since, the interest on which, for two years, is 1,166l. The total of said debts being 16,564l.; further that she has 1,000 tons of the turned guns that were provided for his Majesty's service above four years since still lying dead on her hands: further that she has provided of new iron ordnance for the thirty ships [as by the Seventeen Months' Act] as many as will amount to near 5,000l. above what were [delivered] upon contract, which also lie dead upon her hands: for want of the above moneys petitioner has been forced to take up several great sums of money on interest and, not having wherewith to satisfy it, is in great danger to be cast into prison to the ruin of her and seven small children: therefore prays relief: also prays that a considerable quantity of broken and unserviceable brass guns, which are in the stores, may be granted her, she allowing as much or more by the ton for them as any other person. Ibid, p. 222.
Feb. 19. Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of the petition of Richard Witchall for a tidewaiter's place in any port, his father having been a great sufferer for the King in the late civil wars. Reference Book I, p. 223.
[?] Henry Guy to the Auditors of Imprests, forwarding the petition of Charles Osborne and Henry Fanshaw [et al.]. Certify the Treasury Lords what you know touching the state of the accompt of prize goods and ships taken in the two wars with the Dutch. Ibid.
Appending: said petition shewing that, by privy seal of 1678, Aug. 31, petitioners were appointed Receivers of the arrears, concealments and embezzlements of prize ships and goods taken in the said two wars and brought into the ports of London, Portsmouth and Hull, and that the Commissions formerly granted under the Exchequer seal in pursuance of the said privy seal (and also other authorities from the Treasury to the Auditors of Imprests) for the management of the said receipt are expired; therefore pray a new Commission to the same effect directed to Charles Osborne, Henry Fanshawe and Nathaniel Bladen, esqrs., and James Syms, Joseph Embreys, and Henry Neville, gent., or any two of them, whereof said Osborne or Bladen to be one; also pray for renewal of the Treasury directions to the Auditors of Imprests to allow petitioners' receipts as sufficient vouchers (for so much money as shall be by them received) to such accountants as shall produce them upon their accounts relating to the said arrears; and that the said Auditors may permit petitioners to peruse all accounts in their custody relating hereto.
Feb. 19. Caveat that no privy seal pass to William Fanshaw of several lands and sums of money belonging to persons convicted of treason or settled to Popish uses (as by Fanshaw's schedule thereof, who pretends to be the discoverer thereof) until the right of discovery be determined in the Exchequer. In the margin: [entered on behalf of] Rodericke Monsell, Tho. Merry and Samll. Otes. Caveat Book, p. 13.
[?] Francis Godfrey, Customer of Lynn Regis, desires to be first heard if Mr. Russell or any other seeks a grant [of his said office]. Notice to be sent to Lynn or left with Mr. Creamer or Mr. Bedingfield, of Grays Inn. Ibid.
Feb. 19. Treasury warrant to the Receiver and the Auditor of the Duchy of Cornwall to pay 25l. to Nicholas Courtney for half a year to Sept. 29 last on his fee as Attorney General of the said Duchy. Money Book II, p. 338.
Same to the Customs Cashier to pay 483l. 6s. 8d. to Sir John Shaw for half a year to Sept. 29 last on his salaries of 466l. 13s. 4d. as Collector Inwards, London port, and of 500l. as Surveyor of the Navigation Act. Ibid, p. 339.
Feb. 19. Money warrant for 66l. 13s. 4d. each to Brooke Bridges and Tho. Done, for one year to Sept. 29 last on their fee as Auditors of Imprests. Money Book II, p. 341.
Treasury reference to the Customs Commissioners of the petition of Michall Ashfield, citizen and haberdasher of London, for a noontender's or waiter's place in the Customs. Reference Book I, p. 225.
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