Volume 213: January 1-April 30, 1717

Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 5, 1714-1719. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1883.

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'Volume 213: January 1-April 30, 1717', in Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 5, 1714-1719, (London, 1883) pp. 356-372. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-papers/vol5/pp356-372 [accessed 25 April 2024]

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January 1–April 30, 1717

1717 1. New years gifts or other annual dues to the Secretaries and Clerks of the Treasury. Also to the Lords. 1717–18. 6 pages.
1 Jan. 2. Report of the Surveyor-General, on the petition of James Goodeve, respecting a lease of certain lands lying near Gosport, in the county of Southampton, which he desired to obtain.
“These premises containe about five acres and three roods, and cost the Government 1,200l. (a very extravagant price), and by a survey made in 1716, it being garden ground, and well planted with fruit trees of about fifteen years growth, was then valued at 23l. per ann. Since that time great wastes have been committed on the same, and the utmost that has been bid for it is 12l. per ann., which the petitioner is willing to give:” recommends the grant of the lease for 31 years. 1 Jan. 1717.
The petition referred to. 2 pages
[? About
4 Jan.]
3. Account of the gross and neat produce of alienations from the last day of Mich. term, 1715, to the end of Mich. term, 1717. Dated 3 Jan. 1717–18.
On the back is a memorandum that it was received on 4 Jan. 1717.
Also a list of the officers and their salaries. Dated Alienation Office, 3 May 1717. 2 double pages.
6 Jan. 4. Lord-Lieut. of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury. In the Session of Parliament in 1715, at the time of the late Rebellion, the House of Commons of Ireland, to encourage the half-pay officers on the Irish Establishment to assist the standing army and militia, addressed his Majesty that they might have full pay. Part of the half-pay officers were commanded to stay in Dublin, and others were sent to distant garrisons, but have not received their full pay for the time they were on duty. Upon a petition from them the house resolved “that orders were issued by his Majesty and the Government of this kingdom at the time of the late unnatural Rebellion in Great Britain, that all officers on half pay should repair forthwith to the city of Dublin.” Gives also other resolutions passed on the same subject. Desires their Lordships to represent this matter to the King, that he (the Ld-Lieut.) might be empowered to pay arrears. Dublin Castle, 6 Jan. 1717–18.
Minuted:—“11th March 1717. To be layd before the King.” 3 pages.
6 Jan. 5. The same to the same, on the petition, &c. of Daniel Hintz, agent to the Protestant Palatines in Ireland. Referred the matter to the Comrs appointed to settle the Palatines, whose report he encloses, and is of their opinion that if the royal bounty of 624l. per ann., already granted to them till 28th March 1719, were continued for a further term of 14 years, it would be a favour well bestowed, and might strengthen the Protestant interest in Ireland. Same date.
Minuted:—“31 July 1718. Prepare a warrant.” Again:“12th August 1718. Warrt signed.”
The report and petition referred to, and another memorial from the agent on the same subject. 6 pages.
8 Jan. 6. Report of the Barons of the Exchequer of Scotland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Mr James Haldane, who had been appointed to succeed (as third master) Mr Patrick Haldane, dismissed from the Professorship of Ecclesiastical History within the new college of St Andrews in Scotland. Conceive that his Majesty may constitute the above Mr James Haldane, with an allowance of 105l. out of the rents of the late bishops in Scotland.
Transmit the draft of a grant. Excheqr, Edinburgh, 8th January 1717–18.
Minuted:—“31st July 1718. Agreed to. Transcribe the signature for the King's hand.”
The petition and draft referred to. 6½ pages.
9 Jan. 7. Memorial of Sir Matthew Decker for regulating the exchange at 5¼ dollars per pound sterling, for the pay of four battalions from the Duke of Brunswick Lunenburg in the service of the King of Great Britain. London, 9 Jan. 1717–18.
Minuted:—“25th January 1717–18. Read. Ref. to Mr Sloper.” 1 page.
10 Jan. 8. Memorial of Mr Walpole, Auditor of the Plantation Revenues, to the Lords of the Treasury. Represents that no accounts of the casual revenues arising in the Leeward Islands have been rendered to his office for a great many years, which may have arisen from the confusion of affairs there. Recommends Charles Dunbar, Esq., as a proper receiver of the casual revenues there. Jan. 10, 1717.
Minuted:—10th January 1717–18. Read. My Lords will appoint an officer and direct the Audr to propose what allowance by poundage or otherwise is fit to be made. Again:—“26th Janry 1717. Brought back by Mr Walpole. My Lds will farther consider it.”
Also petition of Christopher Prissick, on behalf of Charles Dunbar, and a schedule of the rates of allowances to receivers in the plantations. 3 pages.
14 Jan. 9. Proposal of Mos. Beranger to the Lords of the Treasury, for remittances to Gibraltar and Port Mahon, viz., the former at 54d. and the latter at 54½d. per piece of eight. London, 14 Jan. 1717.
Minuted:—“15th January 1717–18. My Lords agree to this proposal.” 1 page.
[? About
18 Jan.]
10. Petition of [Basset Ede] to the Lords of the Treasury, to be appointed commander of a sloop to prevent the running of goods (Scotland). States the various services in which he had been employed; one of which was, when in command of the “Royal George” sloop, to watch the rebels. Succeeded in frustrating them in taking the city of Edinburgh. They broke open his house at Leith, and gutted and rifled it, but he escaped.
The copy of instructions to him when in command of the “Royal “George,” amongst which was to unmast and take off the rudders from every ship or bark, and to burn and destroy such boats as should not be sent to Leith according to his desire.
Also two other papers, one of which is dated 18 Jan. 1717. 4 pages, gnawed by vermin.
20 Jan. 11. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petitions of James Lindsey, Edward Shaftoe, Crain Liddell, and Eneas Cameron, concerned in the Rebellion, and afterwards witnesses for the King against the persons taken with them. They thereby incurred the displeasure of all their former friends, and now pray for relief. Represents that the services of the first three were small, and that the moneys they had received whilst subsisted as witnesses were a sufficient reward, but Cameron's services deserve to be further considered, as he was a material witness in several trials, and gave his evidence conformable to his original informations. Is of opinion that he deserves the like sum and pension that were ordered to Mr James Lappan, another witness, viz., 10l. in money, and 30l. per ann. pension, &c. 28 Jan. 1717.
Minuted:—“27th March 1718. This rept to be abstracted and layd before the King.” 5½ pages.
23 Jan. 12. Representation of the Comrs of Excise, Scotland, to the Lords of the Treasury, of the difficulties that attended the management of the revenue of Excise, which required a parliamentary remedy. The principal of these was the 12 gallons Scots, amounting to between 35 and 36 gallons English. The brewers detained 1–17th part of the duties charged by the officers. Excise Office, Edinburgh, 23 Jan. 1717–18. 2 pages.
25 Jan. 13. Certificate of Francis Neale, Deputy Clerk of the Pipe, to the Lords of the Treasury, of the payment by Sir Peter Delme, Knt, and Sir Harcourt Master, Knt sheriffs of London, of 440l. to Anne Parker, John Mills, and divers others, for the apprehension of divers felons and burglars. Pipe Office, Jan. 25, 1717.
28 Jan. 14. Report of the Auditors of Imprest (Harley and Foley) to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of the Earl of Carnarvon, and the method of making up his accounts in respect to the money which rests unsatisfied upon several Bills of Exchange in connexion with the expedition to Canada. In favour of allowance to the Earl. 28 Jan. 1717.
The memorial and list of the bills drawn.
Minuted:—“12 Feb. 1717. Prepare a warrt pursuant to the Audrs report.” Again:—“18 Feb. 1717, warrt sign'd.” 2 pages.
31 Jan. 15. Report of the Surveyor-General (Cholmley) to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of the Earl of Carlisle, who desired a lease of several parcels of land in Cumberland, which descended to the Crown upon the death of the late James Dacres, Esquire. The property consisted of the site of the dissolved monastery of Lanercost, &c., and a water corn mill there, formerly granted to Thomas Dacres and his heirs male, which reverted to the Crown by failure of heirs.
Recommends the grant of a lease of 31 years at a rent of 40l. per ann.
On the back is a Treasury warrant for a constat or particular of the premises, in order to the passing of the lease.
The memorial. 3 pages.
1 Feb. 16. Report of the Attorney-General to the King, on the petition of James Duke Crispe, late Secretary to Chelsea Hospital, who was taken into custody by two of his Majesty's messengers. They also seized all his books and papers in that office. He was released on bail the next day. In Easter Term last the Attorney-General exhibited an information against him, for entering 24 men on the books as out pensioners, without authority of the Governor and Comrs. The trial was put off. Petitioner says that his papers have been destroyed, and he is not able to make a defence without them, and he never entered one person as a pensioner without sufficient warrant. Prayed a nolle prosequi. The Attorney-General says, that if it be true as sworn by the petitioner and others, that a much greater parcel was seized than has been produced, and among those wanting, are the warrants which would justify him, it will occasion great clamour on the office and the prosecution, as it is unjust to seize papers necessary for the defendant's defence, and not to have them produced for his use at his trial. 1 Feb. 1717–18. 17 pages.
1 Feb. 17. “Lill.” Norman to the Hon. Wm. Lowndes, Esq. Several accounts have been ordered to be laid before the House of Commons from the Comrs of Customs to find a remedy to prevent the exportation of coin. Recommends that the Lords of the Treasury should require the Comrs of Customs in England and Scotland to lay before them an account of the date of each bond, the value of cargo at landing, &c., with a particular account how each bond has been discharged from 1707 to 1717. 1 page.
10 Feb. 18. Report of the Controllers of the Accounts of the Army to the Lords of the Treasury. On three lists of the number of persons victualled in the garrison of Gibraltar, between 12 Aug. 1717 and 3 Nov. following; and also as to the quantity of provisions laid into the storehouse by the contractor, 30 Sept. 1717. There is due to the contractor, 3,464l. 15s. 17/8d. Are informed by Mr. Hill, agent for the contractor, that the lists are lost, the mail going to Madrid having been robbed. 10 Feb. 1717–18.
The three lists, &c. are notwithstanding enclosed.
Minuted:—“11th Feb. 1717, recd. The Paymr Forces to insert this in his next demand.”
Again:—“18th Feb. 1717. Warrt signd.” 2½ pages.
12 Feb. 19. Report from the Postmasters General (Cornwallis and Craggs) to the Lords of the Treasury, of the number of guineas or other pieces of gold mentioned in the King's proclamation, in the hands of their officers on 31 Dec. [1717]. Altogether there were 3,180 guineas, and the allowance on them at 6d. each amounted to 79l. 10s. General Post Office, 12 Feb. 1717. 1 page.
14 Feb. 20. Report of Mos[es] Beranger to the Lords of the Treasury, on the state of the tin under his direction in Holland, 14 Feb. 1717. The quantity sent in August 1710 was 11,098 blocks, or 1,600 tons, on which he lent 100,000l., and he was asking to be allowed to sell at current rates. 2 pages.
19 Feb. 21. Richard Jones to the Lords [of the Treasury], in answer to an advertisement in the “St. James's Post,” announcing himself as the author of a letter from a liveryman of the city of London to a member of Parliament about coining copper farthings and halfpence, and that he waits at the Treasury to know their Lordships' pleasure. 19 Feb. 1717.
Minuted:—“R. 20th Feb. 1717, and read. Mr Jones to attend on Monday next wth sevll samples of copper & proposals. Sir Isaac Newton to attend at the same time with the assay master & Kings clerk. L~re sent accordingly.” ½ page.
21 Feb. 22. Report of Mr Thomas Colby to the Lords of the Treasury, upon the exception made by the officers of the regiment that were transported from Ireland to Scotland in the time of the late Rebellion, against the charge set upon them on account thereof by the Transport Office. For the provisions supplied by this office to regiments on shipboard from England or Scotland, to Holland or Flanders, or back again, or from Flanders or England to Ireland, annual accounts of deductions to be made for the same out of the pay of the regiments, have been transmitted to the paymaster. But for the troops that have been sent to foreign places, as Spain, Portugal, the West Indies, or upon descents, her late Majesty's pleasure was signified not to give in any charge for transportation to the paymaster of the army. As no provision appears to have been made by this office on the like occasion and service, as that on which these regiments were transported from Ireland, their case seems new to him; nevertheless the regiments upon their late transportation back to Ireland (that is to say, the foot) provisioned themselves, and the dragoons were charged for the provender supplied by this office. Transport Office, 21 Feb. 1717–18.
Encloses three other papers. 6 pages.
21 Feb. 23. Sir John Lambert and E. Gibbon to the Lords of the Treasury. Send an account of tin disposed of at Hamburg towards payment of the principal and interest advanced by them. Desire leave to sell at the price the markets will allow. 21 Feb. 1717–18.
The account referred to. 2 pages.
[? About
22 Feb.]
24. Petition of Wm. Benson, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury, for the grant of a lease of a small piece of ground in the Privy Garden, near the water side, to erect a lodging, it being of no manner of use to his Majesty.
Minuted:—“22d Feb. 1717. My Lds will consider this another time.” 1 page.
24 Feb. 25. Certificate of the Comrs for building 50 new churches, of the good behaviour, &c. of Mr Leacroft, who was nominated by his Majesty as Treasurer and Receiver of moneys for building the same. 24 Feb. 1717–18. With signatures of several of the Bishops.
Minuted:—“28 Feb. 1717–18. Stop Mr Robinson's warrt till further order from their Lopps.” 1 page.
24 Feb. 26. Proposal of Mr Richard Jones for coining copper farthings and halfpence. 24 Feb. 1717–18.
The copper was to be equal in goodness to that coined in King Charles II.'s time.
Minuted:—“Mr Jones to bring in a new proposal on Thursday.” 2 pages.
25 Feb. 27. Another similar proposal by Mr Daniel Hall. 25 Feb. 1717. 1 page.
26 Feb. 28. Lord Coningsby to —. As directed by Lord Stanhope, sends the letter of Mr Bangham, the Receiver-General of Hereford. On Monday last was the first time he heard of his apprehensions, though, as Lord Lieutenant of the county, he might pretend to have some share in the recommendation of a Receiver-General. Yet if the gentleman who was to be removed was not every way fit for the employment, and his successor as much the contrary, he would not interpose.
The letter referred to. Says that it is publicly discussed that Mr John Caswell is to have his place, &c. Leominster, 22 Feb. 1717. 2 pages.
[? About
28 Feb.]
29. Petition of the Mayor and Burgesses and other inhabitants of the town of Lyme Regis to the Lords of the Treasury. His Majesty has continued to the corporation an annuity of 100l. granted by his predecessors, payable at the Exchequer, for the “consumac[i]on, conservation and repair of the pier called the Cobb,” built in the sea near the borough. The pier or cobb is of late years in great decay and ruinous, insomuch that the corporation has so deeply mortgaged their town lands to repair the same, that the annual income will hardly discharge the interest money. The trade and navigation of the town will be lost, unless the cobb is kept up, being situate in the deepest part of the Great Bay, betwixt Portland and the Start; and the inhabitants are so impoverished by losses from the two late wars, that they are unable to repair the same without assistance. Pray an addition to the annuity.
With signatures.
Minuted:—“28 Feb. 1717–38. Read. To be considered when my Lord Stanh[ope is] at the Treasury.” 1 page.
7 March. 30. Samuel Burton to Lord Coningsby, at his house in Albemarle Street, London. Received a letter from General Gorges, mentioning his desire to lay out 14,000l. as near these parts as he could, and that Lord Coningsby had named the Baron of Burford's estate, which he seemed desirous to have if there were a good title. Apprehends he is desirous of coming into Parliament if any place should offer. When in London, a little before Mr Smith of Worcester's death, was told his estate near Ledbury was to be sold; if there is a good title, will enquire after it. Mr Harley's family and their tools had given out through all this country that they had laid him (the writer) up in Newgate for 500l., to remain there until payment. Several people believed it, and were as much surprised to see him, as if he had risen from the dead. Several of his friends met him at Radnor, where the bells were ringing, and they were drinking his Lordship's (Lord Coningsby's) health. It was also reported that he and Bangham were turned out of being receivers, and that Spencer of Leominster was to succeed him, and John Caswell to succeed Bangham. Has paid in every penny of the money he has received.
Hopes if his Lordship thinks him in any danger [as regards his appointment], he will speak to some of the Lords of the Treasury. Vronlace?, 7 Mar. 1717. 1½ pages.
10 Mar. 31. Lord Sunderland to the Lords of the Treasury. Encloses petition of Mons. John Francis Richard d'Epinouze, which had been laid before the King, who commiserating his circumstances, was inclined to extend his bounty to him. For directions to be given relating thereto. Whitehall, 10 March 1717–18.
Minuted:—“12th March 1717. Examine the list & see if this person have any allowce out of the 15,000li for French Protestants, or on any other establishmt.”
Again:—“13th March 1717. There is no such name neither in the printed list, nor in Mr Clayton's & Blagny's list, nor in the Irish list.”
Again:—“16 July 1718. Rejected.”
In his petition he describes himself as “fils de noble Antoine Richard Viscomte, seigneur de Boussieres, de Prantigni, d'Epenouse, directeur et gouverneur en chef des biens et domaines que le feu Roi Guillaume troisieme de glorieuse memoire possedoit, en Bourgogne et dans la principauté d'Orange.” Prays, on account of his father's services and his own losses, for assistance. Whilst prosecuting his studies at Paris he had become a Protestant. (French.) 3 pages.
12 March. 32. Report of the Attorney General (Northey) to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petitions of (1) Sir Bibye Lake, Bart.; (2) Robert King, Esq.; and (3) an agreement between them all touching the affairs of Mr Robert Peter, late Receiver-General for Hertfordshire, who failed in debt to the Government, 13,149l. 11s.d. 12 March 1717–18.
The two petitions referred to and two other papers.
In the Minute Book, Vol. 22, p. 33, 15 May 1718 is:—
“Sir Biby Lake, Mr King, & counsel on both sides, are called in. Mr Chancellour acquaints them that the Lords have considered the report of the Attor.-Genll, wherein the whole affair between them is stated. Sir Biby Lake begins to open the case, but my Lords refuse to hear the matter ex parte. Genll Wills, who is a party concerned, not being present, my Lords will hear & determine this matter to morrow, when all partys are to attend.”
Again at p. 37, 23 May 1718:—“Genll Wills to have a copie of the late Attor.-Genll's report about Peters' debt, & to make his exceptions against it, wch with the reasons that shall be offer'd by Sir Biby Lake, et al., are to be referr'd to the present Attor-Genll, who will be desired to consider the same & report his opinion with all speed.” 17½ pages.
12 March. 33. Report of the same to the same, on the report of Mr Auditor Harley, relating to the claim of Mrs Harriet Ramondon, daughter and executrix of Doctor Thomas Lawrence, first physician of the late Queen Anne, to have the salary of the first physician of his Majesty from 1 Aug. 1714, when the Queen died, till the 25th of September following, when the doctor died, which salary Dr Shadwell received, though he was not constituted physician to his Majesty till 15 Oct. following; also on the papers annexed to the report. Is of opinion that Dr Lawrence was not continued by the Act of Queen Anne, after her death, but that his employment determined by her death, and that what he did in attending at the opening of the late Queen, was as her physician, and was his duty so to do, and the directing him so to do did not constitute him his Majesty's first physician. 12 March 1717–18.
Minuted:—“3d April 1718. The Rept is approved.”
The Auditor's report, and eight other papers connected therewith. One of them is a copy of the account of what was observed at the opening of her Majesty's body, and is as follows:—“Kensington Palace, 2 Augst 1714. Upon opening the body of her late Majty, of blessed memory, we found a small umbilical hernia omentalis, without any excoriation, a large omentum well coloured, no water in the cavity of the abdomen, the stomach thin, and its inward coat too smooth, the liver not schircous [? scirrus], but very tender and flaccid, as were all the rest of the viscera of the lower belly, the gall, bladder, kidneys, and urinary bladder without any stone. There was a very small scorbutick ulcer on the left leg. We can give no further account, being forbid making any other inspection than what was absolutely necessary for embalming the body.” 19½ pages.
16 March. 34. Order of Council referring the petition of Charles Osborne, Esq., brother to the late Duke of Leeds, setting forth that he had a pension settled on him by King William III., which was continued till the present accession, when it was left out, and praying in consideration of his great age and extreme necessities, for its restoration. Referring the matter to the Lords of the Treasury. 16 March 1717.
Minuted:—“16 July 1718. My Lords cannot advise the continuance of this penc[i]on; but the arreares due to her [sic] to be paid out of the produce of tyn, with the rest of the late Queen's creditors.”
The petition referred to 3 pages.
24 March. 35. Memorial of the Comrs for putting in execution an Act for taking and stating the debts due and growing due to Scotland by way of equivalent to the Lords of the Treasury, praying payment of an arrear for salaries, incidents, &c., as there was now a saving in the clause of appropriation for the year 1718 for the Comrs' salaries, incidents, &c., with all arrears thereof. 24 March 1717–18.
Minuted:—“3d April 1718. Respited.” 1 page.
25 March. 36. Lord Lieut. of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury. Encloses letter of the Lords Justices, touching the payment of the money usually allowed at the end of every three years to new clothe the State officers and the Battle Axe guards, attending the government of Ireland. Desires their Lordships to obtain the King's warrant for payment of the sums required in time for his Majesty's birthday. Also encloses another letter received from the Lords Justices relating to the allowances to the Speakers of both Houses of Parliament and to the Clerk of the Privy Council and Clerk of the Hanaper in Ireland for their services in the last sessions, as also to several officers in Great Britain, for their trouble in relation to the Bills of that session, together with a list of the particular sums to be paid. Desires his Majesty's warrant to be procured for the same. Dover Street, 25 March 1718.
Accompanied by the first-named letter only. 2½ pages.
25 March. 37. A. B. to the Lords [of the Treasury]. Having defrauded his Majesty in the sum of 186l. 2s., and believing that a repentance in word or thought only can be deemed at best but hypocritical, without restoring the sum wrongfully detained, has presumed to trouble their Lps with the enclosed bank notes to be applied to the public service. 25 March 1718. 1 page.
The particulars of this application are entered in the Minute Book, Vol. 22, p. 5, 26 March 1718. The Minute adds “that according to his desire my Lords have directed [the money] to be paid into the Exchequer for the use of the public.” Also, “Prepare an advertisement to be inserted in Saturday's Gazette, signifying the receipt of the letter and the application of the money accordingly.”
26 March. 38. Report of the Surveyor-General to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Sir Henry Liddell, Bart., who prayed to have a lease of the Holy Island, in the county of Northumberland and bishopric of Durham. Barbara Collingwood, in the year 1692, obtained a lease of the property (except the benefit of the port or haven and castle within the island and lands deserted by the sea). About a year since she applied for a reversionary lease, and the surveyor proposed that she should pay a fine of 230l. Has been informed that she cannot raise the money. The surveyor proposes that if the lease is not completed in a limited time a lease should pass to the petitioner. 26 March 1718.
Also the petition.
Minuted:—“Granted to Col. Middleton.” 2 pages.
[? About
27 March.]
39. Petition of Rowland Tryon, merchant, in behalf of Walter Hamilton, Esq., Governor of the Leeward Islands, to the Lords of the Treasury. The governor had to repair to his governorship with such speed that he had not had time to get warrants passed in the usual form for chapel necessaries and communion plate, which the late governor, Mr Douglas, returned to the Jewel Office. Petitioner obtained the warrants. Prays their Lps' directions thereon.
Minuted:—“27th March 1718. To be abstracted and layd before the King.”
Also the two warrants. 3 pages.
[? About
28 March.]
40. Petition of John Bowack to the Lords of the Treasury. Has for many years taught the children of the Chapel Royal writing and accounts, under the direction of Dr. Croft, in London; also at Windsor and Hampton Court. For teaching them in town the late Queen granted an allowance, and for travelling and teaching them when out of town. Has received no travelling allowance for 1716 and 1717. Prays payment.
Minuted:—“28 March 1718. Rejected.” 1 page.
28 March. 41. Robert Sedgwick, Clerk of the Jewel Office, to the Lords of the Treasury, sending an account of the plate delivered out of the Jewel Office to various persons, by indenture not yet discharged, or returned to the Jewel Office. Jewel Office, 28 March 1718.
The account referred to, containing a long list of ambassadors and others. The first indenture referred to is in 1685.
Minuted:—“Read to my Lords the 1st April 1718. To be again consider'd.” 2½ pages.
31 March. 42. Charles Carkesse to William Lowndes, Esq. The extents issued against John Burridge, jun., merchant of London, indebted to the Revenue, being ordered to be taken off, the Comrs of Customs think it necessary for the service that fresh process of extents issue against his estate, and will give orders forthwith to their solicitor, unless the Lords of the Treasury direct the contrary. Custom House, London, 31 March 1718.
Minuted:—“The Comrs to take care that the process issue against him, to secure and levy the King['s] debt effectually.” 1 page.
31 March. 43. Lord Lieut. of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury. Sends a list of payments made in 1717 out of the Concordatum money, which had occasioned that fund to be overdrawn 2,403l. 3s.d.; also the Lords Justices' representation thereon. Prays the usual warrant. Dover Street, 31 March 1718.
The representation referred to, but the list is not with it. 2 pages.
Dec. 1717–March 1718. 44. An account of money laid out for Capt. Norbury, going up to [the court of] Mequinez.
Account of some things bought up, to add to the Emperor of Morocco's present.
Also divers receipts given for similar payments made by Admiral the Hon. Charles Cornwall, Esq., by the hands of Mr Robert Gamble, between Dec. 1717 and March 1718. 14 pages.
[? After
March.]
45. A list of pensions added by his Majesty's warrants since the 1st of May 1717. Also—
A list of persons deceased and determined since the 1st of May 1717. The date is probably after March 1718 from mention of the “present Treasury Comn.” 1½ pages.
[After
March.]
46. Petition of Charles Dartiquenave, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury. Was appointed one of the Board of Works to join in re-examining all the bills and accounts passed by the former Board, from the demise of the late Queen, whereby 3,000l. was saved to the Crown. Gave his whole time without recompense to this labour. The expenses of the office do not exceed 14,400l. per ann., whereby petitioner's customary fees are considerably diminished, and the ancient allowance of 10 per cent, is no longer sufficient to defray the Treasury and Exchequer fees, the charges of Privy Seals, passing accounts, and other contingencies. Prays an allowance of 3d. per pound for all moneys imprested to him, commencing from 1715, in lieu of 10s. per cent. [Undated, but after March 1718, when the new Lords of the Treasury were appointed.] 1 page.
1 April. 47. Lord Coningsby to Mr Lowndes. Has entered a caveat against Caswell's brother being a receiver, as he is obliged to leave town before their Lps will proceed in the affair. Sends a memorial on the subject. Hopes it will put a stop to a thing so prejudicial to the public, Wishes their Lps would send for the minute upon this affair before they make any banker, especially Caswell, Receiver-General. 1 April 1718.
The memorial or letter of Thomas Harris to Lord Coningsby respecting the disposition of the best place belonging to the county, which the “new knight, St. George,” said was under his power, and that the country “should very soon see who had the best interest therein,” his Lordship or he. [See also Vol. CCXIII. 28 and 30.] 2 pages.
2 April. 48. “Memorial and petition” of John Anstis, Esq., Garter, to the Lords of the Treasury. Sets out the particulars of his case [as shown in previous memorials]. Their Lps having not made any final determination in this case till a writ was issued for the election of a member in the petitioner's room upon his acceptance of the office, and the petitioner being thereon re-elected by the name and sitting as Garter, he was told by one of the then Lords of the Treasury in the House, that by reason of the multiplicity of business at that time it would be acceptable if he deferred making his application for his salary till after a prorogation; and the Duke of Norfolk having the like assurance from another of the then Lords he delayed the same. Renews his request for their Lps' order to the Exchequer for the payment of the fee or salary, which being a matter of property and a case of a freehold, wherein he is supporting the prerogative, he hopes to obtain. 2 April 1718.
Minuted:—“11th June 1718. Read. Let Mr Cracherode examine and certifie whether there has been any prosecution at law agst his patent.”
Again:—“A warrant hath been sent to Mr Att.-Gen. to prosecute by sci fa, but Mr Att. hath heard councell on both sides, and hath not yet made any rept, or orderd any such sci fa, not being satisfyed that such a prosecuc[i]on would be attended wth success. A. Cracherode, 12o Jun 1718.”
“13 June 1718. Respited till Mr Att. reports.” 1 page.
[? About
4 April.]
49. Memorial of Sir Roger Mostyn, Bart., to the Lords of the Treasury. It being necessary to have memorialist's seal affixed to the debentures issuable by him, much expense will be saved to the Government by having the seal cut and the die fitted to the engines at the Stamp Office, as is now done in the cases of the Earl of Carnarvon and Thomas Moore, Esq. Prays their Lps' letter to the Comrs of Stamps to permit the same.
Minuted:—“4th April 1718. To Comrs of Stamp Dutys, to know if they have any objection.” 1 page.
4 April. 50. Representation of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, as to the state of the prosecutions against the persons concerned in the frauds committed in Chelsea Hospital. Delivered up the papers to Mr Stanwix, who was appointed by the Comrs for Chelsea Hospital, as their solicitor, to take charge of the prosecutions. 4 April 1718.
Minuted:—“One of the Under Secrys of State to lay before my Lords on Tuesday next the rept of the Attor.-Genll relating to the state of these prosecutions.” 1 page.
[? About
4 April.]
51. Petition of the poor distressed widows of the late Prince George of Denmark's servants to the First Lord Commissioner of the Treasury. Their small pensions are unpaid for three years past, and they are grown old and feeble, and very helpless. Pray relief.
Minuted:—“4th April 1718. Referred to Mr Godfrey.” 1 page.
[After
5 April.]
52. Copies of certificates annexed to the report of the Secretary-at-War, on the petition of Katherine Waters. The first is dated in 1692, and states that Catherine Bailey [? afterwards Waters] was daughter of Alderman John Baily, an eminent merchant in the city, and a Protestant sufferer, who lost all his effects by the cruel “Massanary” papists of this country (Ireland), to the value of 10,000l., and her eldest brother was murdered, and the rest of her brothers went into the King's service. Her father standing up to defend his fellow Protestant sufferers, raised a troop of horse at a cost of above 2,000l.
The last date is 5 April 1718. 2 pages.
7 April. 53. J. Craggs to the Lords of the Treasury. The enclosed petition of Mr George Holme, late chaplain to the British Consul and factory at Algier, has been laid before the King, and his Majesty is satisfied of the truth of it. Since Mr Holme's return home he has translated several papers out of the Arabic and Turkish for the Secretary's office, and may be further serviceable to his Majesty in that way. The King's pleasure is that their Lps give the proper order for a gratification to him of 100l. Whitehall, 7 April 1718.
Minuted:—“24th April 1718. Agreed to.”
The petition. 2 pages.
8 April. 54. Petition of Thomas Hewett, Esq., late Surveyor of H.M. Woods, to the Lords of the Treasury, praying to be heard upon a scandalous and false memorial put in to the Treasury to defame him. 8 April 1718.
Minuted:—“9th April 1718. My Lords will appoint a day to hear both parties.”
In the Minute Book, vol. 22, p. 28, 7 May 1718, is:—“The reports of the Verderers, dated 1st June 1716, and of Mr Young, dated 28 Febry 1716, with a memorial of Mr Digby and Mr Molineux are read, complaining of some irregularitys of Mr Hewet to his Mats disadvantage, and contrary to the forrest laws. Mr Hewet's answer is also read, and my Lords direct a copy thereof to be given to the Verdurers, and will appoint anor day to consider and determine this affaire.” 1 page.
9 April. 55. Certificate of Edw. Godfrey to the Secretary of the Treasury (Lowndes), that the persons mentioned in a preceding list were servants to Prince George of Denmark, and had the salaries named. After H.R.H.'s death, Queen Anne allowed them pensions until her demise. Does not know why they have not been continued. 9 Apr. 1718.
Minuted:—“2d May 1718. My Lords cannot advise his Maty to renew these penc[i]ons, but what is due to them in the Queen's time wilbe paid with other servants, when there is money for them.”
The petition, an Order in Council, and a list. 4 pages.
[? About
9 April.]
56. Petition of Jasper Clayton, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury. Was, with two other Comrs, appointed to inspect the demolition of Dunkirk, and his Majesty's pleasure was that he should receive 3l. a day. Attended this service 241 days and received 241l., so there remains due to him 482l. The other Comrs have been paid. Prays payment of the balance.
On the back are memoranda of what was paid to the other Comrs, Sir James Abercrombie and Col. John Armstrong, and this Minute of 9 April 1718:—“He may (if he thinks fit) apply to his Maty.” 1 page.
[? About
9 April.
57. Petition of Barbara Collingwood and Elizabeth Collingwood to the Lords of the Treasury. The lease of the Holy Island, in the counties of Northumberland and Durham, granted to petitioners' ancestors for the services by them formerly done to the Crown, is near expiring, and their Lps granted their warrant for a new lease to the petitioners. The rent reserved has been constantly paid to Mr Douglas, the receiver, and he having neglected to pay the same into the Exchequer, the auditor refuses to pass petitioners' new lease until the rent be paid. Pray that the auditor and the receiver, or his deputy, may attend their Lordships thereon.
Minuted:—“9th April 1718. Respited.” 1 page.
[? About
9 April.]
58. Petition of Stephen Brown to the Lords of the Treasury. Petitioner, in August last, made a proposal for purchasing and settling 700 acres of late French lands in St. Christopher's, lying in “Basse terra” quarter. Also sets forth his losses and services. Was a considerable sufferer in the plundering of Montserrat by the French. Offered 3l. an acre for the lands, and to transport and maintain for the strengthening of the colony 35 white men. Petitioner's case differs from most of the others, he having been a considerable sufferer. The maintenance of the men whom he has provided is extremely chargeable. Prays for despatch.
Minuted:—“9th Apr. 1718. All the papers concerning these lands to be read again when my Lord Sunderland is here.” 2 pages.
10 April. 59. Report of R. Powys to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Daniel Smith, Esq., Lieut.-Governor of the Island of Nevis, and late Lieut.-General of all his Majesty's Leeward Caribbee Islands. Col. Walter Douglas left that Government on 4 Dec. 1713, and constituted Daniel Smith Lieut.-Governor, who was superseded by the arrival of Lieut.-General William Mathews on 30 June 1715. The moiety of 1,200l. per ann. (the salary of the Governor) is due to the Lieut.-Governor, and has been deducted from that of Douglas. There is due to the petitioner 941l. 1s. 11d. 10 April 1718.
Minuted:—“2d May 1718. Prepare a warrant.”
The petition and three other papers. 5 pages.
14 April. 60. G. Macartney [Governor of Berwick], to —. The royalties and profits of the Holy Island were formerly vested in the Governor of Berwick, “whose commission and power extends to both.” But King Charles the Second granted the profits for a term to the widow and children of one Collingwood, who obtained a further grant, the term of which has near expired, and they are making application for a new grant. Prays, on behalf of himself and succeeding governors, to be heard thereon. 14 April 1718.
Minuted:—“14th April 1718. When the survr makes his report my Lords will appoint a day for a hearing of all partys.” 2 pages.
17 April. 61. Lords of the Treasury to Mr Craggs respecting his accounts, and asking whether any particular warrants from the King, countersigned by him as Secretary-at-War, were obtained for 40,030l. 12s. 11d., by the Paymaster of the Forces, and if any such warrants were obtained, to transmit copies. 17 April 1718.
Also memoranda of two such warrants. 1½ pages.
19 April. 62. W., Bishop of Salisbury, Chancellor of the Order of the Garter, to the Lords of the Treasury, touching the installation fees of their Royal Highnesses Prince Frederick and the Duke of York. The fees amounted to 695l. 10s. 10d. Certifies their Lordships that he is informed it is the custom for all such as by virtue of the Act of Parliament for precedency, take place of Dukes (tho' they themselves are of an inferior degree) always to pay their fees as Dukes, and the statutes of the order expressly prohibit the setting up any atchievements till payment of the fees be made, so that the Sovereign, having appointed Wednesday, the 30th of April, for their installations by proxy, it is necessary the fees be forthwith paid, that the installations may be then performed. Further, the knights to be installed are obliged to make offerings of gold and silver, and therefore it is left to their Lps' consideration whether they will besides, allow ten guineas in gold and two crown pieces in silver, or a larger sum for each of these knights to be so offered. There hath been usually given by each knight elected to six of the knights marshalmen to attend, 3l. 4s. 6d.; to the ringers at Windsor, 2l. 3s.; to the housekeeper at Windsor, 10l. 15s.; to twelve yeomen of the guards, 6l. 9s.; to the servants of the Constable of Windsor, 4l. 6s.; and to the officers of the church, towards their building scaffolds, 2l. 3s. But these particulars not being mentioned in the constitution, or the grants under the great seal, Garter King of Arms had no authority to insert them, there being gratuities given usually by the knights themselves. If their Lps think these rewards reasonable, then they will amount to 40l. 0s. 6d. for each, so that then the total sum will be 775l. 11s. 10d. Golden Square, 19 April 1718.
Minuted:—“19th April 1718. Enquire if these are the usual fees paid on the like occasions.”
Accompanied by a list of the fees payable upon the Installation of a Duke. 2 pages.
21 April. 63. Comrs of Revenue, Ireland, to the Lords of the Treasury. Enclose an account for a year, ending 25 Dec. last, of the produce of the Hereditary Revenue and the additional duties granted by Parliament. Custom House, Dublin, 21 April 1718.
The account referred to. 2 pages.
[? About
24 April.]
64. Petition of Patrick Strachan, of Glenkindy, to the King. In the month of August, 1715, the late Earl of Mar, arriving in that part of the Highlands of Scotland, called the Brae of Mar, used all his art to engage petitioner in treasons and rebellion. From a sense of duty and allegiance made all haste to Edinburgh, to inform the Government of the traitorous designs of the Earl, and having with difficulty escaped from his house, did towards the end of August give an account to the Lord Justice Clerk, at Edinburgh, of the wicked and rebellious measures then contriving by the Earl. Attended as a volunteer at Stirling till the battle of Sherriff Moor, when he was taken prisoner by the rebels. Being the only gentleman in that country that remained in allegiance to his Majesty, was by the Earl treated in a most barbarous manner, being confined in a most nauseous dungeon [14 weeks] till the Pretender fled from Scotland, when he was released. His Majesty's generals then in Scotland employed petitioner in several marches to the Highlands with the troops, and by his direction the rebels were disarmed, and garrisons appointed in proper places. Has expended very considerable sums of his own, and has been a very considerable sufferer in his private affairs, and to this day has not received any reimbursement. Lays before his Majesty an account of the money so expended, the particulars of which are very well known to the Duke of Roxburgh, Principal Secretary of State, and to the Rt Hon. the Lord Cadogan. Prays payment, and a reward for his services.
On it is a note referring it to the Lords of the Treasury to report. Dated 24 Apr. 1718.
Minuted:—“16 July 1718. Ref. to Secretar]y at Warr.”
Accompanied by the account referred to of the moneys advanced by the petitioner, &c. In it he makes claims (1), for attendance upon General Montese in the Highlands in disarming the rebels; (2) for disarming and seizing the rebels in the counties of Kincardine, Aberdeen, and Bamff; (3) for attendance in the Highlands from 1 Sept. 1717 to 20 Nov. in settling small detachments to hinder the depredations of the Highlanders; (4) for intelligence not paid for by Brigadier Preston, the nature of the service admitting of no voucher; (5) for money advanced after the King's troops were gone, for bringing a robber from Badenoch to Aberdeen; and (6) for his attendance from 20 Nov. 1717 to 20 Feb. 1717–18, when he came from the Highlands by order of the Lord Justice Clerk, to give in schemes of the most proper places for building barracks. Also five letters and certificates relating to the same affairs. 9 pages.
24 April. 65. A list of “Pentions established by his Majesty and paid by Jacob de la Motte Blagny.” Dated 24 April 1718.
At the end is:—“Elizth Marie, Princess of Portugall, is dead; her pention was 50l.” 5 pages.
25 April. 66. Memorial signed Ch. Battely to the Lords of the Treasury, showing the claims of Westminster Abbey, under a certain Act of Parliament, on the Treasury, and praying payment to memorialist, who was appointed Receiver. 6,000l. was then due, and it was for the repairing and finishing the Abbey. Dated 25 April 1718.
Minuted:—“29th April 1718. Order'd.” 1¼ pages.
26 and 30
April.
67. Copies of three documents touching 45,000l. paid by the Earl of Carnarvon to Sir Mathew Decker, Bart., being a loan from the King of Great Britain to the King of Denmark, on account of the arrears of subsidy due to his Danish Majesty. Dated 26 and 30 April 1718. 2 pages.