|
41
February 1 | John West to Harman Verelst requesting consent of Trustees for
Georgia for his return to England because of illness, and licence to
dispose of his land and possessions in Georgia. Signed. Illiterate. 2 small pp. Addressed.
[CO 5/640, ff 269–269A] |
42
February 2 | John Yeamans to Thomas Hill enclosing the following. Signed. 1 small
p. Endorsed, Recd., Read 2 February 1739. Enclosed:
42 i Ordnance Office, 27 September 1735. List of ordnance stores supplied to
Antigua. Copy. 1 p.
42 ii State of the Council of Antigua. Gilbert Fleming, lieut-general, in England;
Edward Byam, lieut-governor, in Antigua; Nathaniel Crump in Antigua; John Frye
in Antigua; George Lucas in England but going over; George Thomas in Pennsylvania, governor thereof; John Duer lately resigned; John Vernon in France; Josiah
Martin in New England; Charles Dunbar, Councillor in all the islands, resides chiefly
at Antigua; Samuel Byam in Antigua; Edward Byam in New York government: it is
apprehended this last gentleman was never appointed; Benjamin King lately proposed, in Antigua. ¾ p.
42 iii State of Council of Montserrat. Gilbert Fleming, lieut-general, in England;
Thomas Diggs, lieut-governor, succeeded by Forbes, deceased, succeeded by Col
Carpenter now in England; George Wyke in Montserrat; Richard Cooke in
Montserrat; James Cruickshanks resigned; John Daily resigned; Simeon Bouveron in
Montserrat; George Wyke jnr in Montserrat; John Roynon dead; John Osborne in
Montserrat; John Webb in Montserrat. ½p. [CO 152/23, ff 183–188d] |
43
February 5
Antigua | Governor William Mathew to Commissioners for Trade and Plantations sending duplicate of minutes of Assembly of St Christopher's to
12 September 1738, and duplicate of minutes of Council of Montserrat
for quarter ending Christmas last. John Williams, member of Council of St Christopher's,
died a few days since. Signed. 1 small p. Endorsed, Recd., Read 10 April 1739. [CO
152/23, ff 205, 205d, 208, 208d] |
44
February 5
Georgia Office | Harman Verelst to James Oglethorpe to be forwarded to Georgia by
the lieut-governor of New York. On 29th of last month and not before,
the Trustees received your letter dated 19 September last giving an
account of your arrival in Georgia. They had applied for a supply to Mr Chancellor of the
Exchequer and prepared a petition to Parliament before the receipt of that letter. Your
letters of 7 and 19 October were received on 22nd of last month which occasioned the
Trustees to resolve to amend their petition and apply for the payment of debts by
unforeseen accidents and therefore not provided for in the grant of the last session in
Parliament, resolving to get as much as possible granted this session. The papers you sent
with your letter of 7 October were also received and the Trustees, out of a due concern
for the welfare of the colony and to ease you as much as possible under the great weight
you labour in that faithful discharge of the trust reposed in you, have agreed to your
directing the issue of the 500l in sola bills which you took over with you and are to be
issued for the support of the most necessitous objects and for assistance of the industrious
inhabitants; and the Trustees have reserved money in the bank for the payment of them
on their return to England. They have also agreed to send you by Capt Shubrick (whom
Mr Revel has engaged to go to Georgia 15th inst with 40 tons of provisions for your
regiment) 15 tons of beer in barrels, the use and produce whereof is to be applied for the
Trustees' servants to be employed in cultivating lands for the religious uses of the colony,
being to be paid for out of that money. They have also agreed to send you by the same
ship 600l more in sola bills for the use of their servants and have reserved 400l out of the
money for building churches and 200l out of the money for religious uses to answer them,
and the servants' labour in those services or the produce thereof must be so applied. |
| The Trustees, when they know their success in Parliament, intend to send over a
commission to state and determine the public debts in Georgia and for that purpose to
name William Stephens, Henry Parker and Thomas Jones, who are to sign to each
account what shall appear due to be paid in England and thereby to discharge the effects
in Georgia from any claim, that they may be applied for the service of the colony until the
arrival of the sola bills to be sent after the next supply is voted for the support of the
colony for the ensuing year. The Trustees are very sensible of the difficulties you labour
under and the dangers you are exposed to and bless God for your great deliverance in the
late mutiny. They much approve of your conduct under these hardships and are truly
animated with a most commendable zeal for the preservation and welfare of the province,
which you have endured so many fatigues and gone through so many eminent dangers in
the establishing of. They are very sensible of the Spaniards' desire to possess it, but as it
never has been (to the Trustees' knowledge) possessed by them they have reason to hope
it never will. As to Mr Causton's and Mr Bradley's conducts the same commissioners will
be empowered to examine and determine thereupon, and the Trustees expect that the
same care should be taken for Mr Bradley's giving security to answer the event as well as
Mr Causton's. This comes by the way of New York in hopes to reach you before Capt
Shubrick's arrival. Entry. 2 pp. [CO 5/667, pp 209–210] |
45
February 6
Whitehall | Commissioners for Trade and Plantations to Lieut-Governor George
Clarke acknowledging letters of 22 October and 21 November 1738. In
the first you acquaint us with your having dissolved the Assembly, and
at the same time for your reasons of so doing you refer us to the papers enclosed therein.
We have considered them very maturely and thereupon have thought proper to give you
by the first opportunity this early testimony of our approbation of your conduct in this
affair. You certainly have acted as became you, both in communicating your instructions
to them and in adhering to it yourself. We hope when the next Assembly meets you will
find a better disposition in them to concur with you in such measures as are necessary for
the support of the government and we would recommend to you to cultivate a good
understanding with them; but should you have the same difficulties to struggle with, we
still promise ourselves that no consideration will induce you to come into a bill for
sinking the paper money unless a proper provision be made for the support of the
government. As to the answer you made to part of the message sent you by the Assembly,
that you could not give your consent to the appropriation of the money, we must observe
that the right of issuing of money, when given by the Assembly, belongs to you as HM's
governor, as also the appointing the officers necessary for that purpose, but the
appropriation of it is in the Assembly agreeable to the constitution of England. Your
other letter, which takes notice of your interview with the Six Nations and of the
advantages you hope to receive from it, though not so great as you had expected, gives us
another opportunity of commending your conduct; and we doubt not but you will
continue to use the same vigilance as you have hitherto done in preventing the French
from gaining any footing among the Indians, as nothing can be done of that nature which
will not affect our commerce in the most sensible manner. Entry. Signatories, Monson, M
Bladen, Edward Ashe, R Plumer. 2½ pp. [CO 5/1126, pp 82–84] |
46
February 6
Savannah | William Stephens to Trustees for Georgia. Very little has occurred to
me worth your attention since my last of 2 January whereof I now send
copy together with a continuation of my journal, from whence your
ready discernment may in a great measure lead you to judge how affairs in general stand
with us at present here. As to what has been doing in the south it would ill become me to
make a narrative of matters not within the compass of my knowledge, especially when
they have been so closely under the general's own eye for a good time past so that what
intelligence you have from thence to be sure comes pure and genuine as from a
springhead, whilst I find myself often under some difficulty in separating truth from
falsehood, lest in taking things on their first appearance, perhaps disguised, I should fall
into unpardonable mistakes. I would not be misunderstood here to mean any of those
inquiries which are immediately under Mr Jones's discretion relating to Messrs Causton
and Bradley: they are mysteries too deep for me to attempt the fathoming, and I can make
no doubt but Mr Jones gives you information from time to time what progress he has
made, etc, though whatever letters he may have wrote to England none have taken place
in the ordinary packet which I send and run the common risk with others in case he has
sent any. It is sufficient for me (as I humbly apprehend) so to do my best in narrowly
watching the dispositions and actions of people here in general, together with what steps
(or of late I may say large strides) they take towards making themselves more and more
uneasy, that the truth of everything may appear as it is, which I have endeavoured in those
daily observations I have made. |
| Howsoever unacceptable it may be to you or disagreeable to myself, I think it is
incumbent on me now to lay before you a new list of the freeholders of this town, etc, by
comparing which with what I sent you soon after my first coming here you may see the
difference and how that set of people are decreased, though the number of souls
inhabiting this part of the colony is certainly multiplied, reckoning the foreigners that
have been imported with their families who are mostly employed in service either of the
Trust or private persons; many of them likewise have been disposed of in the south. I had
it in my intention to make a perfect list of the numbers of men, women and children
distinctly but we are at present in such a fluid way and so many alterations almost daily
happen that what I cannot set down with certainty I conceive is better deferred a while till
we return to a more fixed and permanent state, which in good time I make no question
will come to pass and that this froward infant of six years growth, which has been
tenderly nursed, will learn to do more for itself than hitherto has been done, though I dare
not venture to answer for the immediate amendment of some peevish and dogged
dispositions who make their own will their only guide. It must not now be denied that
there are some few among those noted to be away who have taken pains and endeavoured
to live, but failing in their expectations of a crop, without help from the stores, and no
wages to be had for their labour now if hired, necessity has driven them to seek their
bread where they can find it, and whenever such can do it here they will certainly return
to their own homes. But I think I can safely affirm that the return of at least two thirds of
all that are gone off is rather to be feared than wished. It is true indeed they added to the
number of fencible men and during the vapouring of the Spaniards they were looked on as
useful; but since HM has been pleased to appoint a regular force for our defence
ploughshares and sickles I conceive at present more adapted to the use of the husbandmen
here than guns and swords, which nevertheless they ought not wholly to lay aside. |
| Mr Causton showing me a paragraph of his letter which he said he purposed to send to
you by Capt Thomson, wherein he alleged that at the time he meant to put an end to the
work of roadmaking under Mr Williams's inspection I prevailed with him to continue
that work a while longer believing the general would like it and procure your
approbation, I think it my duty to offer a few words the better to illustrate that passage. It
was some short time before Michaelmas last (about 10 or 12 days as I remember) when Mr
Williams told me that Mr Causton had taken a sudden resolution to break off that work,
which having no previous notice of would be very detrimental forasmuch as there was a
bridge newly framed and set up at a considerable expense over a creek on that road about
half a mile out of town and unless the road leading near to it was raised to a
proportionable height so as gradually to surmount the crown of the arch all that was done
would be of no effect; therefore he wished I would speak to Mr Causton about it and
persuade him to continue the men in that employment those few days only till
Michaelmas which would bring it to a proper period and the way to the bridge would be
made more commodious, otherwise it was not passable; which knowing to be true from
seeing it myself, I promised him that I would talk with Mr Causton upon it and when I
did so should know better how far it was proper for me to meddle in such an affair. But I
well knew that Mr Causton had sometime before reduced the number of those workmen
from 17 or 18 to 10, which I always understood to be a prudential act of saving from
himself; wherefore imagining this likewise to be so, indeed I went so far as to say when I
conferred with him that I apprehended it was not a matter of very great moment if the
men went on for a few days more as was requested considering the circumstances of
things relating to it and I could not suppose the general would think much of it, whom we
expected very soon and who (it was known presently after) was at that time landed at St
Simon's. Whereupon it was agreed to and the men all discharged accordingly at
Michaelmas, the time appointed, after finishing what appeared to be so necessary that
without it the whole road beyond must have been useless. Signed. 2½ small pp. [CO 5/640,
ff 270–271d] |
47
[February 6] | Memorial of Henry Popple, agent of Governor Alured Popple, to
Commissioners for Trade and Plantations requesting augmentation of
the independent company in Bermuda and supply of a complete set of arms for it. 1 large
p. Endorsed. Recd. 6 February, Read 7 February 1739. [CO 37/13, ff 77–78d] |
48
February 7
Palace Court | Minutes of Common Council of Georgia. Ordered that stationery to
the value of 25l be purchased to be carried over by Rev Mr Whitefield.
Letters of 6 November 1738 from Mr Bolzius and Mr Gronau were
referred to committee of accounts. Read letter from Mr Urlsperger to Mr Ziegenhagen of
27 January 1739 concerning colonists setting out from Augsburg; letter of acknowledgement and thanks to be sent, also letters to Daniel Wolters at Rotterdam and the English
minister in Holland. Passage of said colonists to be paid out of money appropriated for
Salzburghers. Entry. 2 pp. [CO 5/690, pp 197–198] |
49
February 7
Palace Court | Minutes of Trustees for Georgia. Received receipt from the bank
for 40l paid in by Adam Anderson. Sealed petition to House of
Commons for supply. Entry. 1 p. [CO 5/687, p 106; entry of petition
in CO 5/670, p 374] |
50
February 7
Savannah | William Stephens to Harman Verelst. After so much as I wrote you in
two letters of 2nd and 3rd ult I may imagine you will expect me to be
more brief now, wherefore I shall avoid all rambling excursions and
come to those points only which I apprehend it necessary you should be acquainted with:
the first of which is relating to that affair of my late good friend Col Horsey whose family
might with reason expect me to be ever ready in doing them what service lay in my
power, and I am sure I am so from my heart; wherefore it really affects me very
grievously to think how ill I have been able to demonstrate it by any act of mine since I
received those letters, powers and instructions from Capt Samuel Horsey and yourself in
what manner to solicit those demands that the family in all appearances have so just a
claim to from the government of Carolina, which I formerly (more than once) wrote you
I had immediately acquainted our general with, who was then in the south but expected
here every week since, from the time I received those orders which was towards the latter
end of November, in all which time nevertheless I have not had the honour of any
commands from him relating to it. And without his advice and assistance it was not
proper for me to stir as I was very justly cautioned to act in it wholly under his conduct.
And we yet continue here daily waiting his coming to this place which was once his
delight but by degrees he seemed to grow more enamoured with the southern settlements
and the late mad behaviour of these people with their representation, etc has more and
more estranged him from it, insomuch that it has even been surmised by some he would
show them a mark of his resentment by passing by this place without stopping at the time
he first went to Charleston; but I hope he will not carry things to those extremities for
there is yet a remnant here of such as I apprehend worth more regard who never wilfully
meant to offend. (This by the by.) Till I see him or hear from him what can I say? Surely
he means nothing but good to the family which he gave such large proofs of friendship to
the father of, and as soon as he allows me to proceed it will quickly appear with what a
hearty goodwill I go about it. In the meanwhile let me entreat you to persuade them not
to suffer any ill impressions to be made as if I wanted a ready disposition to serve them,
and I am continually in hopes of an opportunity soon to convince them effectually of that
truth, but till then I have but little heart to write letters of no significance. When
opportunity offers, a ream of foolscap paper in folio and the like of post paper in ditto
would [be] very acceptable, not knowing easily under our present wants where to get it.
Little or none of what [?I had] has been applied to wrong uses and what I have seen filled
I hope has not been all wasted. Pens, ink, wax etc we have plenty of left. I had thoughts of
adding here a few small things which I should also be glad of for my own private use but I
rather postpone that till another time when I may ask your leave to mention them. Signed.
PS. Pray be so good as to forward the enclosed by the post to the Isle of Wight. 1 small p.
Addressed. [CO 5/640, ff 272, 272d] |
51
February 8
Whitehall | Commissioners for Trade and Plantations to the King recommending
approbation of Act passed in New York in 1737 for confirming
agreement and exchange of lands in Oysterbay. Entry. Signatories,
Monson, M Bladen, Edward Ashe, R Plumer. 1 p. [CO 5/1126, pp 84–85] |
52
February 8
Savannah | Thomas Jones to Harman Verelst. The instructions given me by the
Trustees I find impossible strictly to comply with unless I act without
any regard had to their interests or the rights of others. I have by every
opportunity that offered informed Gen Oglethorpe with the situation of the Trustees'
affairs here and have been from time to time favoured with his orders which to the best of
my power I have complied with. But he, the general, having been detained at the
southward for three months past, I have been ever since in one continued scene of strife
and wrangling. The threats I hear of actions being brought against me by some, and of
being that or otherwise destroyed by others, do not in the least terrify me if I can by any
means prevent their honours' good intentions in establishing this colony from being
defeated and their effects secured from plunder and waste for the future. What has been
done of that nature for two years last past you will in a short time discover, though too
late for a remedy. |
| That part of my instructions relating to the notices to be affixed on the doors of the
stores at Savannah and Frederica has been complied with as per my letter to you in
October but I have had no account from Mr White of the remain of stores at Frederica,
the general having taken that affair under his care and inspection. The instruction to issue
the stores under my care pursuant to the orders of William Stephens Esq, Mr Thomas
Causton and Mr Henry Parker or any two of them I have not strictly conformed to but
have had the general's orders for my guidance in issuing provisions, etc to such as had
demands on the store, as also for magistrates and other officers, the widows and orphans,
the Trustees' servants, and some others. But such who had no demand on the store I have
conformed to the directions given me by Col Stephens and Mr Parker for the most part,
yet have refused to comply with Mr Parker's and Mr Causton's orders in some instances,
particularly in their order for issuing out of the stores to Mr Causton 100 bushels of corn
and a large quantity of damaged corn for his cattle, the quantity not mentioned but so
much as he should have occasion for. I told them that the stores being nigh exhausted of
all sorts of provisions excepting corn, I could not find how the Trustees' servants and
others that were to be provided for by the store could be supplied if so large a quantity
was issued to one person who I heard had more corn this year raised on his own
plantation than any three others in the colony. They said they would get Mr Stephens to
join them in that order. I went immediately to Col Stephens and represented to him how
destructive it would be for him to concur with them in such unreasonable demands when
it was evident Mr Causton had plenty of corn by him as well as other provisions of all
sorts. Mr Causton had taken out of the stores on 16 September (being the next day after
he had received the copy of the Trustees' orders per Capt Piercy) a large quantity, as you
may see by the particulars (enclosed) taken out of the daybook, though some people (who
say they counted the barrels of beef on the bluff as they were taking them into the
periager for Oxtead) assert there were six more than he is charged with; and about two in
the morning of the following night several barrels of beef and flour were conveyed out of
the store to Mr Parker's house (but none put to his account) which were seen by Mr
Sterling's family who live next door to him, and he has been often reproached therewith
but was silent thereat as I am informed. |
| I found an inventory taken 25 June last of the provisions and other effects then in the
store, and having the invoices of what had been delivered into the store since that time, I
imagined that I could easily . . . (fn. 1) the issues set down in the daybook if any such frauds
had been committed; but I found one of the daybooks (no 37) commencing from 24 June
to 27 July missing (which book I had in my inventory of the books in the counting-house
taken 20 October last). I have reason to suspect that Mr Causton had prevailed with my
servant (whom I put into the counting-house to take care of the books) to connive at their
conveying that book away. I have discharged that servant and his family. I cannot find
any one person whom I can confide in (excepting one Mr Harris who came over with
Capt Thomson and who assists me in the store) but what by flatteries and presents are
corrupted to betray the trust reposed in them. |
| The instructions I had to examine into Mr Bradley's demands and conduct I have not
been able to comply with. I went to his house the next day after my arrival and acquainted
him with the instructions I had received. He said that he was then indisposed but hoped in
a few days he should be able to settle his accounts with me and in the meantime would
order his son to write out his account with the Trustees. I sent to Mr Causton desiring
him to order Mr Bradley's account from 25 December 1737 to be given me; which could
not obtain till 22 December, which is very defective. I examined the daybooks (at some
leisure hours) and find many mistakes and omissions therein as you will see by comparing
it with that which I have taken (no 4) though am not certain having nobody to assist me in
examining it. Please to observe the valuation of the provisions which were then given me
(no 1) at which I was surprised and desired to be informed when any provisions had been
bought into the store at those prices. The clerk told me that they were valued by the prices
set to Mr Causton's but desired I would give them leave to examine the account again and
some days after brought me that marked no 2. I had some time before told Mr Causton
that he had been very injurious to Mr Bradley, Mr West and some others by rating some
goods issued to them at double the price he had charged the same goods to others, thereby
enhancing their debts. But now Mr Causton, after three years declared enmity, is entered
into a professed amity with Mr Bradley and has been entertained at his house at dinner.
Before this friendship commenced I attended him (Bradley) several times but could not
prevail with him to enter into any account on the footing of his agreement with the
Trustees (of which I had a copy) nor would he account for the provisions, tools and other
effects he had received out of the store, alleging that he was not stinted as to provisions
and other necessaries for himself and his family, that the Trustees had not provided him
with the thirty servants they had promised, and that Gen Oglethorpe would satisfy me
about the whole affair. When the general came here I acquainted him with what had
passed. He (the general) allowed that Mr Bradley's servants arriving in the colony some
time before he came himself, he (the general) had employed them in the Trustees' service
for some time and therefore would allow provisions for all his servants for one year from
their arrival. As soon as the general was gone for the camp at the southward I applied
again to Mr Bradley who now refused to give any other account than what you have
enclosed (no B). He hath ever since taken all opportunities of insulting me, saying that the
Trustees had sent me over hither to starve the inhabitants and oblige them to leave the
colony, and that I had refused to give him provisions which the general had ordered me to
do several times in his hearing and which he saith I owned unto him, which is not true.
What . . . of, neither have I had leisure . . . that what is done thereon might have been
procured to be effected for . . . (fn. 2) If it does or has produced anything there's no account of
it. His son's 5-acre lot is well improved, where he also makes bricks. He has under his
direction (besides those he calls his own servants) these Dutch servants whose names,
ages, etc you have enclosed (no C) and who have their provisions and clothing from the
store. Three of the women servants are his or his son's concubines as commonly reported,
one of them lately delivered, another big with child. Two joiners or carpenters (servants)
have been constantly employed in making chairs, bureaux [MS: buroes] and decorations
for his house as I am told and have seen them when I have been at his house so employed.
The livestock delivered unto his care I can have no account of: he saith that he gave an
account thereof to Col Stephens and will not give another; the increase he calls his own. |
| The general having judged it advisable that Mr Causton and his clerks should have
access to the books in order to make out his account, I would not interrupt him therein
though there has not one account been attempted to this day excepting what is called a
cash account which has been formed from Mr Causton's minutes (not produced) and the
receipt-book, which after three months close application was completed and a copy
delivered to me whereby it appears that Mr Causton has paid 800l more than he had
received, which affords matter of great triumph to his new associates. But the frauds in
that account are too barefaced: I doubt not but you will readily discover them. Only give
me leave to hint that many of the payments for which there have been receipts given as
cash were goods delivered and the persons' accounts not debited for those goods nor any
mention of such issues in the daybook. Robert How (who comes over with Capt
Thompson) his receipt of 9 November 1737, for 6l 9s 2d, can inform you whether he
received any money at that time: it was linen cloth sold him at 4s 6d per yard which cost
2s 3d an English ell (which advance on the price of some goods issued hath been the
common practice for some time past, by which means a very large sum of money must
have yearly accrued to the Trustees but I find no account kept of profit and loss). Several
of the payments were in discharge of his private debts, some for drafts he had given for
the value received of persons which are returned protested. The account, together with
the other accounts and vouchers, I suppose will be transmitted you as soon as the general
arrives here (which I expect daily). I will not trouble you with any observations I have
made on the accounts till I know what course the general will take but intend then to give
you what light I can into any of the accounts. Only that the Trustees may not be deceived
by the certified accounts sent over I would mention one instance. You will find that the
same practice has been used in most of the other certified accounts. In October last Mr
Causton (pursuant to the general's order) delivered me a list of the debts owing to persons
in this colony which had not been certified for my guidance in issuing effects out of the
store towards their satisfaction, which I send herewith (no D), amounting to 6673l 12s
11d (though far short of the debts incurred). Mr John Brownfield (whose account you
will find in that list) who had been at variance with Mr Causton for a long time, I
understand, went often to Oxtead and lay there seve[ral] (fn. 3) nights. In December (about the
time of the association) I went to the counting-house and found the balance due to Mr
Brownfield greatly enhanced whereupon I desired to see the vouchers. The last article in
that account was 31l18s 3¼d charged to the Trustees, as also several other articles to the
amount of 70l and upwards which I found by his bills of parcels to be goods delivered Mr
Causton and charged to his account. I found likewise that all those sums which Mr
Causton owed him before April last had teen included in the certificate given him by Mr
Causton as for goods delivered for the Trustees' use into their magazine at Savannah. I
took a copy of the certificate and showed it Mr Brownfield and asked him whether he did
not then know that Mr Causton had certified a falsehood in order to defraud the Trustees
(he combining with him therein) of a sum of money. He replied that others who had
dealings with Mr Causton had done the same, which I find to be true and few if any of
those sums were placed to Mr Causton's account until of late which you may discover by
the interlineations in his accounts . . . (fn. 4) of the fraudulent methods used by Mr Causton in
his accounts wherein the greatest part of them were interested, I soon lost their friendship
and that brought on a reconciliation of the greatest enemies to one another and a
continual resort to Oxtead (Mr Causton's seat) which at length produced their famous
representation and other libels which are pretended to be dropped in the streets. There is
no person here that I can apply to for any advice or assistance besides Col Stephens. Mr
Christie I believe wishes well to the Trustees' interests but is overawed by Mr Parker who
on all occasions acts with the greatest partiality in favour of Mr Causton and his friends.
He comes sometimes to the store reeling and (when in that plight) complains of the
Trustees their treatment of Mr Causton and himself. He has seven heads (Dutch servants)
for whom he demands clothing as well as provisions. He has had out of the store since 21
October last in provisions to the value of 23l. He stands indebted by his account in the
books 239l12s if rightly stated. I have not examined his account but find therein several of
his private debts paid by Mr Causton on the Trustees' account. |
| The Charles (one of the transport ships), Capt Stuart, has taken in her loading here
from Mr Robert Williams for St Christopher's. It was generally reported that Mr Causton
designed to go with him for St Christopher's in order to go from thence to Eustatia. I
acquainted the general therewith and the reasons I had to believe that report, viz the rude
language used by Stuart in some companies concerning the general and the Trustees, the
frequent going of Capt Stewart in company of Mr Parker, Robert Williams and Hugh
Anderson to Oxtead, Mr Causton's continuing at Oxtead a fortnight having been in town
but once in that time, and his conveying his effects from Oxtead and removing them to
other places privately in the nighttime, all which I could make evident. The general
thereupon wrote to Mr Causton, and also to Mr Fallowfield (the naval officer)
commanding him to go on board the Charles and there remain until she sailed and prevent
Mr Causton or any other person under bail from going out of the colony. He wrote at the
same time to Capt Stuart charging him at his peril not to attempt such things. These letters
came to hand 4th instant. Stuart's ship was laden and at Tybee; he was to sail on 6th
instant. Fallowfield has been on board ever since (though unwillingly) and now Stuart
says he does not know when he shall sail. Being in daily expectation of the general's
coming to Savannah ever since the beginning of December last I have delayed writing,
having no certain account to give of any affairs but shall for the future give such broken
accounts as I am able. I have not time to peruse what I have written nor take an exact
copy, only some minutes that I may not trouble you with the repetition of the same again.
I hope his excellency will arrive here before Capt Thomson goes from Charleston and
shall have the satisfaction of acquainting the Trustees with greater certainty how affairs
are in this country. Signed. 4 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14 May 1739. [CO 5/640, ff 273–274d] |
53
February 9
Whitehall | Duke of Newcastle to Commissioners for Trade and Plantations
enclosing the following. You are to lay before the House of Commons
copies of such papers as are in your office. Signed, Holles Newcastle. ¾
p. Endorsed, Recd. 10 February, Read 13 February 1739. Enclosed:
53 i Resolutions of House of Commons, dated 6 February 1739, requesting
copies of all petitions, etc made to the Admiralty and the Board of Trade since the
Treaty of Seville relating to losses by depredations of the Spaniards; copies of all
letters from British governors in America, HM's minister in Spain, and consuls in
Europe, to Secretaries of State, the Admiralty and Board of Trade, relating to the
same; and copies of all letters from any commander-in-chief or captains of HM's ships
to Secretaries of State, Admiralty and Board of Trade, relating to the same. Copy. 1¾
pp. [CO 323/10, ff 136–139d] |
54
February 9
Whitehall | Commissioners for Trade and Plantations to Committee of Privy
Council. Pursuant to Order of 12 January last we have considered the
petition of John Yeamans, agent of Montserrat, for grant of ordnance,
etc. Mr Yeamans has attended and represented that in 1712 the French invaded this island
and destroyed all the houses, mills and other works therein, ruined their fortifications and
what military stores were then in the island, and after carrying off the Negroes and all
moveables of value left the island in a most miserable and distressed condition; that they
were reduced by that calamity to borrow a considerable sum of money to resettle the said
island for which they were obliged to pay a large interest; that in 1737 they suffered
extremely by a fire which laid almost all Plymouth Town in ashes, which was followed by
an inundation that undermined the fort and destroyed the magazine which with several
houses was washed away, and that in August last they were visited by the severest
hurricane that was ever known there in the memory of man; that notwithstanding this
succession of calamities they have at their own expense laid out large sums of money in
rebuilding and repairing several public works, in particular a new magazine which is
almost finished, and have raised additional works to Plymouth Fort; they are also willing
to repair such other batteries and forts as are necessary for their defence but are utterly
incapable of furnishing themselves with a proper supply of military stores. In our
representation to HM of 11 April 1734 we proposed a supply of military stores to be sent
to the Leeward Islands but Mr Yeamans informs us that in the distribution of these stores
a very inconsiderable share was sent to Montserrat. Considering the distressed condition
of this island and the danger it is at present exposed to, we recommend that the prayer of
the petition be granted so far as necessary for their forts and batteries. Entry. Signatories,
Monson, M Bladen, E Ashe, R Plumer, 3 pp. [CO 153/16, pp 155–157] |
55
February 11
Georgia Office | Benjamin Martyn to Robert Trevor, minister at The Hague, requesting
protection of seven passengers from Augsburg on their way to England
and thence to Georgia in case they meet with any difficulties in
Holland. Entry. ½ p. [CO 5/667, p 211] |
56
February 12
Georgia Office | Same to D[aniel] Wolters at Rotterdam. Seven persons from Augsburg
will shortly arrive at Rotterdam on their way to England and thence to
Georgia. The Trustees request that all assistance be given them; and
have informed Mr Trevor by this post. Entry. ½ p. [CO 5/667, p 211] |
57
February 14
Palace Court | Minutes of Trustees for Georgia. Consideration of a proper day for
presenting the petition to the House of Commons was postponed to
next meeting.Entry. 1 p. [CO 5/687, p 107] |
58
February 14
Savannah | Thomas Causton to Trustees for Georgia. Your orders dated 19 May
being under seal of your Common Council I thought myself particularly
obliged to give it a separate answer, and as your later orders are a con
tinuance of your censures I determined (at the same time) to pursue my defence. I am
sensible that the want of knowing the necessity of the expenses of the colony as
mentioned in your orders dated 12 June, which (I now apprehend) far exceeds your
conjecture, must naturally raise a surprise and some doubts how far my conduct could be
justified. And I may (by sad experience) be allowed to say that it is my great unhappiness
the weight of a discretional power was in any shape laid upon me before a just account of
the circumstances of the colony both as to public and private affairs, and especially before
a more perfect calculation of the charge of those things judged necessary for its defence
and support was duly explained and by some proper channel conveyed to you. I hope I
may be excused from believing that such a calculation was expected from me, not only
because the execution was in a great measure to depend on my conduct and therefore
(with humble submission) improper for me to attempt, but also that the events from the
good or bad success and from the accidents to which such undertakings were liable, was a
task too difficult for my explanation or for my judgment to guard against. Both which
reasons being considered, I imagine that I could contribute to such an explanation no
other wise than by directing the accounts to be properly stated after the execution of the
facts, the employing people for that end, and the transmitting them (when done) for your
approbation. To effect this I made choice of such persons as I could find most properly
qualified, concerning whose neglects I have frequently complained, and I hope may take
the liberty to say (when I find myself accused on that account) that as (in the course of so
many years service under various approbations of my conduct) it was yearly evident that
those necessary accounts were not completed, I ought to have been relieved by such an
assistance of more proper clerks who might from time to time have shown to you in a
proper light the nature and extent of such an expense from whence a more perfect
calculation might have been formed. And your unparalleled goodness forbids me to
believe that you will censure me for not performing what was either then improper or
impossible for me. Neither can I believe that, although my distresses urged me to
supplicate your favours for my joining this colony, I had thereby subjected myself
to what calumny or envy should (possibly) suggest without being duly heard or
proved. |
| As the application of the several values mentioned in your orders can be no way
explained but by the accounts no particular reasons can be given till those accounts are
completed, in doing which I give my daily attendance and if any extraordinary fact has
occasioned those applications will as minutely as I can set forth such facts and transmit
them with the accounts. And as the necessity of such expenses arises from various causes I
must confess myself incapable to relate the whole, but am apt to think that when you shall
see the accounts and have considered from them and other facts which I am apprehensive
will soon (most necessarily) be laid before you in the name of the inhabitants such
necessity will sufficiently appear. And if it can be believed that the industrious people
have hitherto laboured under difficulties arising from the nature of the settlement, and
attended with such unavoidable but fatal truth, I hope you will grant that such prudent
means ought to be used as might stop the growth of such discontent as well to preserve
the reputation of the country as the safety of those who had courage to continue in it and
despise those false representations which ill-disposed persons were industrious to
publish. Had I in any shape taken upon me to represent what appeared to be the real
reasons of those difficulties I should naturally have been guilty of presuming to correct
where my duty was to obey. But such is my unhappy fate that (at present) on the one
hand I undergo your censures for purchasing what I venture to call necessary subsistence
and as such was the only means to defend the industrious under their difficulties and
preserve their future expectations, and on the other hand exposed to the public
resentments of my countrymen for persuading them to persevere in planting and thereby
contributing to complete their destruction. |
| The parcels which you observe to be purchased and were not the proper species of
provisions or fit for those whom you contracted to provide for were never so purchased
but when common food could not be otherwise obtained, and have been issued either
upon a proper value to the creditors of the store (or where necessity might sometimes
otherwise require) on such a reasonable advance as (according to the best of my
judgment) was sufficient to guard against necessary charges and unavoidable waste. An
account of the several sums certified and to whom due was with the several extracts as
mentioned in my letter of 14 January delivered to Gen Oglethorpe soon after his arrival,
and as all the accounts are now bringing to a balance those balances will soon be exactly
taken and transmitted. Capt Thompson informed me of your objections to his account
certified 21 January 1737/8 agreeable to your abovementioned orders, and for the better
justification of the values thereby said to be advanced to the several people therein
mentioned I beg leave to observe that Rev Mr Bolzius had at that time upwards of 5l
sterling value in account with the store in his favour; that part of Mr Broadie's servants
being then employed on the western road the value in said account would thereby be soon
repaid, which if I had not agreed to he must have sold those necessary tools with which
(as a carpenter) he proposed to get his bread, and I imagined that the recommendation
which he brought from Mr Provost Hossack, a copy of which (having been transmitted)
might be judged a reasonable inducement for such a credit; that Mr Thomas Upton
having delivered me Mr Verelst's letter signifying that the Earl of Egmont was certain that
the sum of 30l sterling would be paid to the Trust for his account, I was led to imagine
that the answering for such a credit on his behalf would be approved of and needed no
particular reason from me; that John Moore Mackintosh, Samuel Smallwood, Euan
Mackintosh, Ensign Hugh Mackay and John Rea, being each of them in your service and
thereby entitled to their several establishments, it would be easily supposed that if they
had occasion to purchase anything of Mr Thompson, as the value of such purchase would
stand in account against such establishments it was not immediately necessary to give
other particular reasons; that John Warwick having been recommended by Gen
Oglethorpe as one who had a genius for planting and showing a great desire to employ
himself in that manner, I confess my zeal for giving the utmost encouragement to so
necessary a work led me to answer for the value therein mentioned and as such value was
of small extent I hope to be excused for not assigning particular reasons; that James
Smithe's being mentioned to be employed in erecting the sawmill, Mr Robert Williams's
servants on the western road, and Patrick Graham in attending the silk, the value for their
uses would stand against their respective demands. And although it may be erroneously
mentioned that the generality of the said values are advanced, it will appear that they were
no other way so than because the respective demands on the store were not and could not
(by reason the proper vouchers were not received) be then entered to account or
otherwise explained. As Mr William Williamson transmits his own account to his
relations I apprehend that such value will either be answered by them to the captain or
repaid to you. And as to the value on my own account I humbly hope that neither the
value there mentioned or any other value in any other account will be judged to be done
with any ill design or unreasonable, having always been strictly careful that the smallest
matter which has in any shape been liable to a thought for the particular use of self or
family should be exactly entered to my particular account, always confiding that when
you should think proper to reward my services you would (as you are pleased to mention
in your abovementioned orders dated 19 May) further reward me for the great burthen
which has lain upon me for several years past. And I must beg leave so much the more to
insist on your belief in this manner because I can and do defy any person whatever to
prove that I have either spent my time luxuriously or idly, but contrariwise that all my
actions will demonstrate a design to promote the welfare of the colony. And because of
sundry malicious and false reports which probably may have reached your ears I can and
do defy anyone to prove or show that I have carried on any secret trade or been a factor
for anyone, that I have by any means or channel amassed or procured for myself at any
time any unjust gains or made any remittances in money or goods to England, the West
Indies or any other place whatsoever. As the reasons for all the several articles with which
my account stands charged will more properly be laid before you when I shall transmit
such account I beg that nothing will be (in the meantime) construed to my prejudice,
being extremely anxious that you should be minutely acquainted as well with all the
particulars and the reasons for them as also of the purposes to which they have been
applied. Mr Henry Parker not having paid me any rent on account of Mary Cooper it has
not been in my power to make her any remittance pursuant to her letter of attorney, and
when I do receive any such rent will not fail to account for it agreeable to your
commands. |
| Your orders dated 4 August last mentioned the receipt of my journal to 24 July 1737
and I humbly apprehend that you have since received a continuance thereof to 25
September following. As the business of the colony would not reasonably permit myself
to transcribe such journals I was obliged to employ Samuel Hurst (one of the clerks) for
that purpose at such times as your other services would admit; and as his time (being in no
shape an accountant) was taken up in copying letters, papers, daybooks and accounts, the
transcribing such journals was consequently delayed. I have continued to keep as perfect a
diary of my proceedings as my time would allow and am sorry it has not been in my
power to transmit it to its proper time, being always sensible that thereby I should (in a
great measure) remove those doubts which ill-disposed people might have raised and my
conduct have received a more favourable construction. As I am certain I have at all times
duly confined myself to those facts which in some capacity or other came under my
cognizance in discharge of my duty to you, free from any thought of aspersing anyone in
a private capacity or character, as is suggested here, I hope (from your known justice) that
although it might be proper to show Mr Thomas Jones those diaries before he left
England he will not be countenanced in making his observations upon it here to my
prejudice. I should be more particular in this affair but such is my desire to vindicate my
conduct and obey your commands that I (at present) choose to undergo the worst event
than seem to expect your favour further than my actions shall be found (on an impartial
inquiry) to deserve. |
| I am sorry to find myself charged with presuming to disregard your orders dated 14
December 1737 by certifying the accounts of Capt James Macpherson, Robert Williams
& Co, and Messrs Ellis & Ryan, because I can take upon me to say that every one of those
persons were acquainted with those your orders and were then told that they must
consequently hazard such objections as you would certainly make should payment for
them be demanded in England. Capt Macpherson as commander of the garrison at Fort
Argyle demanded such certificate and represented to me that he had been at extraordinary
charges in providing horses and necessaries for his company on credit and that, unless he
was enabled to continue such a credit to his people by an immediate payment or such an
assurance as he could raise a credit upon, it was impossible for him to keep the people in
garrison and threatened that unless I complied with his demand he and his men would
immediately quit the service. This proceeding of Capt Macpherson, as it was sudden and
seemed to be very extraordinary, I could not (with humble submission) think it proper
for me to deny his request because such denial might have given him a pretence to have
executed his threats, which (if done) would certainly at that time have exposed the colony
to many dangers, the Spaniards and French being then very busy among the Creeks and
other neighbouring nations of Indians in making presents, forming treaties and stirring
them up against us. I was at that time very dangerously ill and therefore in a more
particular manner than usual consulted Col Stephens and the magistrates as to this matter
and now enclose copies of the captain's letter and my answer on that occasion. As to Mr
Robert Williams & Co and Messrs Ellis & Ryan, I am certain that I not only frequently
repeated to them that you had determined all payments should be made at Savannah but
also that many accounts prior to theirs would be certainly sent back for like payment here
and that they must expect (as the necessary expenses of the colony had exceeded your
calculations) to wait for such payment till an account of those expenses could be laid
before you and affairs would permit a suitable remittance. And it was never otherwise
told them or anyone else than that as many certified accounts might be returned for
payment here and many other sums likewise due to sundry persons which were not
certified, a far less sum would be remitted (at present) than would be sufficient to
discharge them and that therefore each person so concerned could only expect such a part
as was agreeable to their demands and the other immediate services of the colony would
admit of. And I can take upon me to say that all my expressions were of this nature to
everyone who had (from the time of your said orders) any demands upon the stores, and
therefore if it shall thus appear upon an impartial inquiry and that the providing further
stores was necessary I hope you will believe that I thereby endeavoured to discharge the
general part of my duty, and although the sense of my own integrity and variety of
business prevented the thought that such particular reasons was necessary you will receive
such endeavours in mitigation of the charge for dispensing with your commands, and
contrariwise believe that I did render as punctual an obedience as was consistent with the
then circumstances of the colony. |
| My cash account is likewise sent wherein all your sola bills, as also all other cash that
hath in any other shape come to my hands since 6 February 1735/6, is duly accounted for.
And as it thereby appears that the discharge exceeds the charge I beg leave to say that I am
apprehensive some part of my own particular cash has been appropriated to the use of the
colony besides the sum of 50l which I mentioned in my letter of 14 January to have drawn
in favour of Messrs Montaigut & Co on Mr Oglethorpe for the purchase of hogs and
other provisions in December 1736. As errors may possibly be discovered on a further
perusal of the accounts I have not charged the cash account as such but have left it for my
credit (till such further examination is taken) when my particular account shall be laid
before you. The general heads of accounts for 1736, as mentioned in my letter of 26 May
last, were all then drawn out and the copies were finished; but though the utmost charge
was given they appeared (upon examination) to be so very full of errors through the
incapacity of the clerks that it could not have answered the design which by my said letter
is mentioned. But lest it should be doubted if such heads were prepared or some false
reason suggested for its not being sent I enclose it to Mr Verelst, and that those errors may
be amended those general heads are put into other hands to be rectified and will with a
continuance to the end of my acting as storekeeper be transmitted. I have herewith
enclosed Mr Jenys's whole account after a full re-examination which I imagine will
clear up the objections which Mr Verelst has made upon it to your satisfaction. The
reason for my suffering Mr Bradley's bill on Mr Verelst to be charged in said account is
because Mr Thomas Jenys produced Mr Oglethorpe's letter to his brother as an authority
for such a charge, and having shown the copy of such letter to the general I have herewith
enclosed it. |
| The inventories of remaining stores taken 29 September 1738 are herewith enclosed,
witnessed by the respective clerks that took them, wherein those articles purchased here
or of which I have any bills of parcels are according to such cost charged and the
condition noted. Upon the arrival of Gen Oglethorpe I gave Mr Jones possession of the
stores and expected to have received an immediate receipt, but he thought fit to issue
away the most necessary part without any examination or giving such receipt contrary to
the opinion of those whom you had authorized to direct him and afterwards refused such
receipt under a pretence that he must examine into the value of every particular. I have
also entered on those inventories such annotations as I have been able to inform myself of,
which Mr Jones after more than a three months possession thought proper to make. But
having no receipt to this hour I thought it necessary that the clerks should certify their
own actions and (they tell me) are ready (if occasion require) to swear it is true. The
French prisoners mentioned in my journal were taken (among others) at a battle by the
Chickesaw Indians when the French attacked those Indians; and Mr Thomas Andrews,
one of the traders in that nation, having acquainted Mr Oglethorpe that he had been the
means of preserving the lives of these and one other of the said captives from a cruel death
(Mons Bienville, brother to the governor of New Orleans, the son of a secretary of
France, a priest and nineteen other captives having been burnt), Mr Oglethorpe enjoined
him (before his last return to England) that at any price whatever he would redeem and
bring them all three to Savannah. In pursuance of which the said Andrews with four
Chickesaw Indians set out for this place: one of which captives being taken (on the way)
with a flux and not recovering by the remedies which the Indians administered, they
thought proper to hang him; the other two arrived here to whom I issued allowances
from the store and they waited upon the general at his arrival. |
| The blanks left in my journal for sums paid was intended to be filled up from the
ledger but as it was forgot (the books not being at hand when the said journal was
transmitted) I humbly hope that such an omission will not be thought very material
because the accounts themselves will sufficiently show what those sums were. I am sorry I
should be supposed to be Mr Ellis's factor when it is well known and can be proved that I
have denied all offers of that kind and am ready to answer any charge for being in any
shape concerned (with design) in anything whatever unbecoming the character of one
who steadfastly was your (only) dutiful servant and the great trust you were pleased to
repose in me. The beef mentioned in your said orders was (at first) purchased for the use
of the stores, and being soon discovered to be unwholesome (after a proper condemnation) received such a fate as the law directs. And I humbly apprehend that neither he (fn. 5) nor
anyone in his behalf can have any just complaint or charge upon that account. I have
enclosed Mrs Watson's letter of attorney to me together with the defeasance of a
judgment which she was pleased to send, as also her husband's whole account with the
store which some time since, subsequent to his discharge from his confinement, were all
examined and adjusted with his consent. The sum of 46l 8s 7d Carolina currency has been
allowed to Rubrick Kalcher upon the application of Rev Mr Bolzius agreeable to Mr
Vatt's letter and your orders. |
| I humbly hope that what I have mentioned in my letter dated 14 January with regard
to the credit taken myself for servants brought as well by Capt Thompson as also by Capt
Hewitt, and also to the credit given to Mr Broadie and Mr Upton, will receive your
approbation. Those servants delivered to the credit of Archibald MacBean being
particularly subject to your commands, he has no pretence from any act of mine to deny a
return of or immediately pay for them. Those to Alexander MacLeane, Benjamin
Mackintosh, Lieut John Moore Mackintosh, and Kenneth Bayley were delivered to them
respectively at the particular request of the said lieutenant being the commanding officer
at the Darien; and I have therefore given them notice that such payment is expected.
Those in the service of James Anderson being duly charged to his account, there appears
to be due to him the sum of 77l 3s 8¼d sterling on a balance. Lacklan MacBean's wife is
with her husband, and he being a man of substance (at present) in the Indian nation I hope
to be excused for such a credit which he will not fail to satisfy at this return. |
| Having thus endeavoured to lay before you satisfactory answers to your several
commands beforementioned, I beg leave further to offer to your consideration how far
anyone, though endowed with far greater qualifications than I can presume to be
possessed of, can possibly in every part acquit himself when thus loaded with business
(which I will venture to call here of the greatest consequence) without proper assistance,
especially when I imagine it will be allowed to be necessary (as well for my better
executing so general a trust as for manifesting to the world my fidelity with regard to the
expense) all accounts and entries ought and were kept and entered by such persons as
seemed to be best qualified. And I beg leave further to offer how far it was possible for me
to confine the expenses of the colony to your limitations (which my own safety as well as
my duty required) when three-fourths of the time was elapsed for which those limitations
were calculated before they arrived, and consequently before I could possibly make such
alterations as were agreeable to those limitations, the time for which they were calculated
would be wholly expired and (if the King's forces arrived according to expectation) other
different orders might be reasonably expected. And I am very apprehensive that had I
omitted any reasonable endeavours to keep the people together till those forces arrived I
should have exposed myself to a just censure because when the Italian silkwinder was
supposed to have left the colony through discontent I was told by letter that you were
much surprised to hear it because it was in my power to have prevented it. From whatever
quarter your doubts of my conduct or good endeavours may arise I can take upon me to
say that no wilful act of mine has occasioned it and as my past services were rather the
effects of your choice than my intercession I cannot yet believe but you will favourably
accept such endeavours. Signed. 7½ pp. [CO 5/640, ff 275–278d] |
59
February 15 | Lieut-Governor William Gooch to Commissioners for Trade and
Plantations acknowledging letters of 9 August and 6 October. Members
of Council of Virginia are the same as for three years past and are all resident. Having
received no application from the Cherokee or Catawba Indians since my last to you I
know not what state they are in with the northern nations; neither have either of their
parties been seen on our frontier, probably occasioned by the winter which affords little
for their subsistence. But if the spring tempts them to renew their hostilities and to make
the like returns of barbarity through our inhabitants, it is not to be imagined that people
who have now arms in their hands will suffer the heathens to insult them with impunity. I
was well acquainted with the treaty made in 1722 and with the arts the Indians have used
to explain themselves out of it. By that treaty the Northern Indians were never to cross
Cohongorouton River nor come to the eastward of the great ridge of mountains, nor were
the Indians belonging to Virginia to pass those bounds to the westward. But now truly
those Indians, pretending to be lords paramount of all the lands on the western side of
those mountains, insist upon it as agreed by the treaty that, as they were not to pass to the
eastward, the English were not to get to the westward. They certainly laid no claim, as
they do now, to the lands on Shenandoah River or anywhere else to the westward. If they
had, it is to be presumed such a demand would not have been admitted since it might have
been easily foreseen that the subjects of HM would soon extend their settlements beyond
the mountains and that the sooner HM was possessed thereof the more effectually would
the French be excluded from fixing themselves on this side the lakes and the River
Mississippi, from whence the greatest danger to the British colonies on the continent is to
be apprehended. As it was with this view only that I urged the expediency of bringing the
Six Nations, as they are called, to a nearer correspondence and a stricter alliance with this
country, which I judged would be best accomplished by their treating with me in this
government where with less controversy if not with more decency I might hope to prevail
over the notion they have imbibed of their being allies only to New York, and that they
are to be influenced by that government which on many occasions has been directed more
for the sake of engrossing the skin trade than a regard to the British interest, I am very
glad you have had the goodness to write to the governor of New York, and I hope it will
have such effect that he will either oblige the Six Nations to make peace with the Southern
Indians or restrain them from passing through the limits of Virginia to attack them; and I
dare engage for the Cherokees and Catawbas they shall never pass that way to molest
them. And surely, if his Indian commissioners, who have the direction of all their affairs
and motions, have any regard to HM's service, to the common safety of HM's subjects, or
to the interest of the Indians themselves, they will use all their endeavours to dispose the
Six Nations to such a reasonable conduct, since it is certain that those nations by
travelling six or seven hundred miles to fall upon the Cherokees and Catawbas only
weaken their strength by the loss they sustain in those long marches and encounters, and
at the same time weaken those southern nations who are firmly attached to the British
interest. You will now judge that in the quarrel between these savages the safety of HM's
subjects is all we aim at, for we have not nor ever had any manner of trade with the
Northern Indians, and indeed the trade we have had with the Southern Indians is now so
fettered with new regulations by the Trustees for Georgia that it is like to be lost to us.
When any further application shall be made to me on the behalf of the Southern Indians I
shall most cheerfully obey your orders without regard to the expense it may occasion or
the trouble it may give me. Signed. |
| Names of Council of Virginia: James Blair, William Byrd, Cole Diggs, John
Robinson, John Carter, John Grymes, William Dandridge, John Custis, William
Randolph, John Taylor, Philip Lightfoot, Thomas Lee. Persons fit to supply vacancies:
Henry Armistead, John Allen, Francis Willis, John Lewis, Henry Fitzhugh, John
Robinson jnr, Charles Carter, Lewis Burwell jnr, Thomas Nelson, Richard Randolph,
Robert Bolling, Benjamin Harrison. 3 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 17 April, Read 2 May 1739.
[CO 5/1324, ff 153–154d] |