Charles I - volume 174: October, 1630

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1629-31. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1860.

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'Charles I - volume 174: October, 1630', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1629-31, (London, 1860) pp. 353-371. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas1/1629-31/pp353-371 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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October, 1630.

Oct. 1.
Hampton Court.
1. The King to Attorney General Heath. Sir Cornelius Vermuyden being to pay 5,000l. for the purchase of Malvern Chase, co. Worcester, 4,000l. thereof had been directed to be paid to Philip Burlamachi, in discharge of debts owing to him. The Attorney General is to prepare a bill for the other 1,000l. to be paid to Theophilus Earl of Suffolk, towards laying dry the copper mines, co. Cornwall.
Oct. 1.
Hampton Court.
2. Sec. Dorchester to the same. To prepare a pardon for Richard Bancroft, of Willesden, co. Middlesex, for misdemeanors objected against him before the Ecclesiastical Commissioners.
Oct. 1.
Mincing Lane.
3. Kenrick Edisbury to Nicholas. Sends names of shipwrights, to whom warrants for survey of the reparations performed by special contracts made by Mr. Burrell and Capt. Pett may be directed.
Oct. 2. 4. Petition of Nicholas Briot to the King. On a proposition about the fabrication of the King's moneys, a warrant was sent to the Officers of the Mint, on 2nd February last, to place petitioner in such lodgings as should be requisite for trial of his proposition. But he has never been able to obtain sufficient lodgings for his instruments and workmen thereby to perform his promise. Prays for a commission to some persons to put him in possession of sufficient lodgings in the Tower, where he may work. Has already lost six years since he first came into England. Underwritten,
4. i. Reference to the Attorney General to call to the Officers of the Mint to have perusal of the warrant of February above mentioned, and thereupon to draw a commission to the purpose desired. Hampton Court, 1630, Oct. 2.
Oct. 2. 5. The same to the same. Complains that he has been hindered by the Officers of the Mint, upon the pretext that he is not of their body or corporation. John Gilbert, joint patentee with Edward Greene, in the office of Chief Graver of the Irons in the Mint, is willing to surrender that office. Petitioner prays that he may be joined with Greene. Underwritten,
5. i. The King being well acquainted with the abilities of the petitioner, directs the Attorney General to call for the joint patent for Chief Graver of the Irons, and if he finds that his Majesty may without prejudice grant the petitioner's request, he is to prepare a bill accordingly. Hampton Court, 1630, Oct. 2.
Oct. 2. 6. Copy of the preceding petition and reference.
[Oct. 2 ?] 7. Nicholas Briot to the King. Observations on the present objectionable character of the copper coinage. The farthing token is of excessive lightness and price (the value being at the rate of 26s. 2d. the pound, of 16 oz. of copper), and is of an ugly and deformed stamp, easily counterfeited. Suggests that the weight ought to be increased by two-thirds, and that the coinage should be made in the Tower, and wrought by mill and engines, which will prevent counterfeiting. Suggests also a coinage of halfpennies of pure copper.
Oct. 2.
Hampton Court.
8. Minutes by Nicholas of business to be considered by the Lords of the Admiralty at their sitting this day, with marginal memoranda of the results. The Miniken, the Fortune, pink, and the Convertive, were ordered to be victualled for actual service.
Oct. 3.
York.
9. Thomas Viscount Wentworth to Bishop Laud. Through Smart's wilful folly it is likely he will be degraded within these fourteen days, whereupon his prebend at Durham will fall void. Mr. Carr, who is at this instant gone to Cambridge to take his degree of Doctor, has lived in the writer's house near twenty years. He has been infinitely happy in his conversation, and desires to place some good upon him. Not having an advowson in his gift, is a suitor that Bishop Laud would recommend Carr to my Lord of Durham for that place. There is not a learneder man on the north of Trent, nor a priest of a better temper and life.
Oct. 3.
Stanford.
10. Sir Thomas Roe to Sec. Dorchester. Sends letters forwarded to him from the Duke of Courland for his Majesty. The restoration of that family concerns his Majesty in honour, religion, and reason of state. Makes no question that Mr. Gordon has written to him on the business, as well as of the other great controversy between the English merchants and the stubborn town of Dantsic. Instructions may still be sent to Mr. Gordon before the breaking up of the next assembly at Warsaw. Roe has bought a cell in that country, not to retire from service, but because his blue coat has wanted a badge, some mark to be known whom he has served. Will wait upon him this winter, to take his leave of London. [Copy.]
Oct. 3.
Stanford.
The same to Henry Earl of Holland. Repeats the information in the preceding letter, and states the grounds on which the confiscation of the family of the Dukes of Courland should be endeavoured to be averted. [Written on the same sheet as the preceding. Copy.]
Oct. 6.
Haverford West.
11. Justices of Peace for co. Pembroke to the Council. Acknowledge receipt of letters to suppress forestallers and transporters of corn. The prices of corn are higher in their market than usually at that time of year, by reason that some have attempted to export corn, whereof they have stayed one bark laden. Others have contracted to do the like. Pray them to stay any licence for carrying corn out of that country.
Oct. 7.
Chatham.
12. Sir Guilford Slingsby to Nicholas. Henry Place, the ancientest boatswain of the navy, is desirous to pass over his place in the Nonsuch to John Johnson, who has been his deputy for five years. Johnson is highly recommended to Nicholas's favour.
[Oct. 7 ?] 13. Petition of Nicholas Neale to the Lords of the Admiralty. Prays appointment of cook in the Nonsuch.
Oct. 7.
Penryn.
14. William Carran to Sir Robert Killigrew, Vice-Chamberlain to the Queen. Received at Exeter of Mr. Tickle 70l., and made up 125l., which has been paid to Sir William Killigrew for his quarterage to Michaelmas. At least 10,000 bushels of wheat have been taken up in the west part of Cornwall by several merchants, whether for home or foreign use is not known. Their bushel is 20 gallons. The result has been that the price of wheat has risen from 8s. to 12s. per bushel, and before Easter will be 20s.
Oct. 7.
Chilton Foliat.
15. John Packer to Francis Windebank. The land he had at the coronation was in Berkshire. If Windebank thinks he ought to pay in that county, and not in his present county, where then he had nothing, begs him to lay down the amount for the writer. He understands it is two subsidies and a half for land, according to the rate in the subsidy book. His proportion will be 12l. 10s., which he will repay through his brother Hawkins, who is now at Westminster.
Oct. 8.
East Retford Sessions.
16. Justices of Peace for co. Nottingham to the Council. At the sessions at East Retford there were certified four recognizances taken before Sir Hardolph Wasteneys, of John Molanus and three others, workmen of Sir Cornelius Vermuyden, to keep the peace towards Francis Thornhill, and all others. Send copy of the information against these persons. Inclosed,
16. i. Copy of Information of Mary Thornhill, wife of Francis Thornhill, and Edward their son. On fifth of August deponents going into a close of Francis Thornhill, where John Molanus, a Dutchman, with eight others, had wrongfully entered and digged, after divers speeches Molanus struck at the said Edward, and offered to strike the said Mary, and afterwards used wrongful and undecent words against Sir Francis Thornhagh.
Oct. 8. 17. Certificate of William Man and Peter Heywood. Joan Price was complained of to William Man, one of the Justices for Westminster, that she was a person of loose life, out of service, vagranting, idling, and shifting from place to place, lodging in "heymoughes," or haystacks, in a field near Tyburn, and sometimes in outhouses upon the bare boards in Petty-France and Longditch, and many times scraping trenchers at tents and other places for scraps. She was sent to the House of Correction in Tuthill fields, and afterwards by pass to Tewkesbury. Ten or twelve days afterwards she and another woman brought an accusation of bigamy against Henry Shelton. Having been put upon his trial at Newgate he had been acquitted.
[Oct. 9.] 18. Mayor and Recorder of Oxford to Sec. Dorchester. Appeal to his connection with the University and county of Oxford, and the advice of the Earl of Danby, as reasons for addressing him. Send inclosed examination, relating to a person of comely personage, wellspoken, and very penitent, whom they detain in prison until the Sec's pleasure be known. His accusers are strangers or residents usually found in alehouses situate in suburbs.
18. i. Separate Informations of Francis Thornton, Methuselah Flower, Henry May, and Walter Powell, who deposed that on the last day of September John Langton, at a victualling house in the suburbs of Oxford, uttered words in derogation of the King's soldiers as compared with those beyond seas, and also of the King's treatment of them in respect of pay. He moreover asserted that the Gunpowder Conspirators were no traitors, which he offered to maintain with his sword. To these informations are added two examinations of the person accused. He was a native of co. Lancaster, who had served in English regiments abroad. About three weeks since landed at Dover, and came through London to Oxford, where he had kindred. Does not remember the words imputed to him. Was in drink at that time.
Oct. 10.
HamptonCourt.
19. Order of Council. Prejudice being done to his Majesty's service in the business of compounding for knighthood, by reason of partial and negligent returns made by Sheriffs, the Attorney General is to proceed against such of the Sheriffs as had been most delinquent in that kind, of which number the Sheriff of co. Northampton is conceived to be one.
Oct. 10.
Scadbury.
20. Sir Thomas Walsingham to the Lords of the Admiralty. The Justices of Peace for West Kent find that transportation of corn is one of the chief causes of dearth and scarcity. The searchers of London, and some other parts in Kent, having molested his officers for doing their duties in that kind, he cannot get them to look after this service without some further warrant.
Oct. 10.
HamptonCourt.
21. Sec. Coke to Nicholas. His Majesty this day required a particular account of what ships had been employed at sea this year, for what times, under what commanders, and what accounts the captains had given of their employment, his Majesty's reason being that information had been given him of much negligence in the Narrow Seas, both by absence of commanders, and by lying in harbour or in the Downs. Sec. Coke is charged to deliver these particulars next Sunday. Requests Nicholas to furnish him with the papers and information. The King's end is princely. If they can give him satisfaction for the present they will for the future put things into a due form of account, both for better government and his Majesty's better contentment. He begs Nicholas to deal freely in all he knows. Nicholas is aware that the Lords have referred to the Earl of Dorset, Sec. Dorchester, and the writer the examination of that tumultuary complaint with which his Majesty was troubled at Tichfield. Which of the masters or boatswains were with Sir Henry Mervyn at that time ? The purser of Sir Henry's ship to be sent to Coke at Twickenham. Sir Kenelm Digby is made a Commissioner for the Navy, and will, as Coke hopes, be a good means to advance the service, though some be displeased at it.
Oct. 10.
Scadbury.
22. Sir Thomas Walsingham to Nicholas. Sends his letter to the Lords of this date to be delivered if not disliked. The clamour is very great for transportation of corn. All the wheat that this year grew in Erith marshes is a-threshing, to be transported, only under colour of sending it into Essex. If the Lords will give him authority he will stay it when it is waterborne. Sent a restraint of transportation of oysters, but in the Hundred of Faversham and the King's channel, of which Sir Dudley Digges claims to be Lord, there is no restraint. Urges the grant of a new warrant which may extend over that jurisdiction.
Oct. 10.
Chilton.
23. John Packer to Francis Windebank. Thanks for his friendly offices. The Commissioners for that county have returned the writer's name, notwithstanding the constable had no warrant to warn him, but made answer that he had no land in that county at the coronation. Thinks the surest way will be to pay in Berkshire, and desires his friendship to compound as he thinks fit.
Oct. 10. 24. Account of moneys due to the Queen of Bohemia out of the Exchequer; total 9,950l.
Oct. 11.
London.
25. Sir Henry Mervyn to Lord Treasurer Weston. Has fallen lame and cannot wait on him. Cannot fit another Whelp to strengthen the convoy of the ordnance, the Whelps being all at Portsmouth. Suggests that they should go under guard of the Second Whelp and the Miniken to Yarmouth, whence the Mary Rose can stand over with them for Holland.
Oct. 11.
Bircham.
26. John Hassall, Dean of Norwich, to Sec. Dorchester. The bearer is recommended to the Sec.'s favour, and the writer humbly requests that he would descend so low as to accept from him a patent of the High Stewardship of his Cathedral Church, with the yearly stipend of 20 nobles thereunto belonging. If the writer shall ever be transplanted from this barren to a better soil, he shall not, like the accursed fig tree, frustrate his planter's desert of better fruit. The late King named the Earl of Northampton in their charter as the first steward; the Earl of Pembroke succeeded. If he pleases to "succenturiate," sic ab Jove tertius Ajax. As soon as the church-audit is passed he will present this service in person.
Oct. 11.
Aboard the Second Whelp in Margate Road.
27. Augustin Bright, master of the Second Whelp, to Nicholas. A French bark, the Jane of Caen, having been brought to with difficulty and after firing many shots at her, is found full of English goods with various cockets all from London, but without a discharge from Gravesend. Requests instructions what he shall do with her.
Oct. 11. 28. William Willett to [the same]. Long details of his dealings with the cargo of the St. John of Dunkirk, in answer to informations against him of having embezzled a quantity of salt.
Oct. 11.
Exeter College, Oxford.
29. Dr. John Prideaux to Bishop Laud, Chancellor of Oxford. The Vice-Chancellor had acquainted them with the Bishop's dislike of accumulating degrees. Is ready to conform, but submits that sufficient notice should be given before execution be urged. Mr. Bayly and Mr. Hodges have been at great pains and charge to perform their exercises before any intimation given of stopping accumulating, which if it presently take place, their hopes, travels, and expenses are all frustrated.
Oct. 11. Lease from Mary Allanson, of Fleet Street, widow, to Thomas Beadle, of Shoe Lane, London, "coque," of a messuage called the Crown in Shoe Lane, in the parish of St. Bride's, for two consecutive terms of seven years, if the lessor or her son Edmund Allanson should so long live, at the yearly rent of 30l. In a schedule of fixtures attached are enumerated, "a pipe of lead that bringeth "Middleton's water, with a cock belonging to it," and "the sign of "the Crown hanging in the street." [Case A., Charles I., No. 12.]
Oct. 12. The King to Sir Kenelm Digby, one of the gentlemen of the Privy Chamber. Appointment as a principal Officer of the Navy, especially in making estimates, taking up provisions, giving instructions to inferior officers, in rating wages, signing books for payments, and all other things which concern a Commissioner or principal Officer. [Copy. See Vol. of Admiralty Collections, Dom. Eliz., end of 1590, fo. 94 b.]
Oct. 12. 30. Estimate for victualling 410 men, to serve in the Garland, St. Claude, First Whelp, and Third Whelp, for guard of the Narrow Seas, for three months, and of victualling the Convertive for 200 men for 28 days: total, 1,454l. 5s.
Oct. 13.
Langley.
31. Lord President Conway to Sec. Dorchester. In conformity with the King's desire to have a certificate from the Judge in the case of Grismond, before the reprieve should be revoked, the writer applied to the Judge who tried him, and received the inclosed. Has no inclination to spill blood, but is moved by a zeal to the King's justice, and to vindicate it from such aspersions as the pardoning of so foul a murder would cast upon it. Thanks the Sec. for refusing to accept a suit from Lord Conway's cousin, Sir Fulke Greville, until he understood it had his approbation, because it concerned a principal place in the government of the Isle of Wight. Inclosed,
31. i. Mr. Justice William Jones to Lord President Conway. William Grismond was arraigned for murdering Margaret Clarke, a young woman whom he had gotten with child, and who was found in a broom-close with her throat cut. Sends copies of examinations which were given in evidence against him at his trial. The whole Bench conceived him to be guilty. Inclosed,
31. i. 1. Examinations of Edmund Durning, Edward Taylor, and William Grismond, setting forth the facts above mentioned. Thornton, 1629, Nov. 1.
[Oct. 13 ?] 32. Minute of a petition from the inhabitants of co. Hereford, that justice might be done on William Grismond for so barbarous a murder.
[Oct. 13 ?] The like of a similar petition from the same, that justice might be done for the murder of John Rogers, late of Netherley, co. Hereford, whereof George Shepherd who had fled was suspected. [Written on the same paper as the preceding.]
Oct. 13.
London
33. Horatio Gentileschi to Sec. Dorchester. Intreats his intercession with the Lord Treasurer to procure him payment of money promised, so that he might pay his debts and live in peace. Ital.
Oct. 13.
Sherborne Lodge.
34. John Earl of Bristol to [the same ?]. Solicits that Mr. John Stone, the Earl's kinsman, and formerly his secretary in Spain, afterwards the King's agent in that country, and finally Consul at Lisbon, may be reappointed to his Consulship at Lisbon on the restoration of peace with Spain.
Oct. 13. 35. John Paltock to Nicholas. By reason of infirmity of body, desires to transfer his place of purser of the Constant Reformation to Robert Whetnall as his deputy. Subjoined,
35. i. Certificate of Kenrick Edisbury of the fitness of Robert Whetnall for the proposed appointment. Deptford, 1630, Oct. 13.
[Oct. 13 ?] 36. Certificates of Kenrick Edisbury and Stephen Alcock, of the sufficiency of Nathaniel Busher to be purser of the Constant Reformation in the place of John Paltock.
Oct. 13. 37. Minute of a recognizance entered into by Edward Greene before Sir Robert Rich, Master in Chancery, whereby he acknowledged a surrender formerly made by John Gilbert of the office of Graver of the Irons for the moneys of the late King, held by him jointly with Greene.
Oct. 14/24
Paris.
38. James Duke of Lennox to Sir Henry Vane, Ambassador at the Hague. Either himself or his son shall freely command the Duke. His son need not call upon Sir Henry to disengage him; he is rather a creditor than a debtor. The Duke's resolution for his place of abode was agreeable to Sir Henry's advice. In the matter of exercises, no place in France is considerable in regard of Paris. The best masters are to be found where most money is stirring. Sir Henry's son gives him example to be diligent. Has followed his advice in writing to the Queen of Bohemia.
Oct. 14. 39. Report of Sir Robert Chester and W. Ayloffe on a cause in difference between Agnes Grenill, of Barley, co. Hertford, widow, and Daniel Smyth, of the same place, yeoman. The question in dispute related to the titles of the several parties to lands called Mr. Johns in Nether Chishall, co. Essex. The right was reported to be in the widow, but Smyth was in possession, and resisted all terms of accommodation.
Oct. 14. 40. Exchequer account of Receipts and Issues from the 28 Sept. last to this day. Among the payments are James Elliott, 25l.; Sir John North, 50l.; Lord Stanhope, 30l.; David Ramsey, 110l.; Richard Cartwright, 22l.; Elizabeth Skipwith, 100l. The receipt was 18,001l.; the issue, 17,632l. 17s. 8d.; the remain, 2,129l. 1s. 1d.
Oct. 15. 41. Sec. Dorchester to the Mayor and Recorder of Oxford. The King is pleased with their care in making stay of Langton, whose unwary tongue durst meddle with the censure of things so much above him, but considering his denial, person, and penitency, and the slight condition of his accusers, his Majesty is content to think his imprisonment has been a sufficient punishment. [Draft.]
Oct. 15.
Ordnance Office.
42. Officers of the Ordnance to Nicholas. The Lords of the Admiralty having advertised Lord Vere, that his Majesty's pinnaces employed on the coast of Ireland are to be victualled upon the Revenue of Ireland, and required him to order such an increase of the proportions to be sent thither as should supply the said ships, they inclose a schedule of what provisions of munition may be made conveniently in Ireland, and what must be supplied from hence. Beg him to move the Lords to signify their pleasure thereon. Inclosed,
42. i. The schedule above mentioned.
Oct. 15.
Arundel House.
43. Thomas Forster to the same. By his Lord's command intreats his favour on behalf of Mrs. Harpur, who is brought so low by Mr. Ward's vexatious suits that she can scarce find bread. He cannot or will not bring forth Mr. Howell, to whose oath she was content to submit her cause. She intreats Nicholas to make a speedy certificate to the Board.
Oct. 15. 44. Sir Guilford Slingsby to the same. By an inclosed letter from Capt. Gibbon, he will perceive how his gunner has misbehaved, and that the captain's resolution is, not to carry him to sea with him. If he have a warrant for his place, it is not reason he should be dismissed until he have answered for himself. If he have no warrant, another may well be put in his place for his presumption. In that case Sir Guilford will recommend an able, sufficient, and honest man.
Oct. 15.
Fulham House.
45. Bishop Laud to Dr. Prideaux. Thanks for his readiness to join in upholding government in that famous University, whose flourishing shall ever be with the first and at the highest, in the Bishop's desires. For the particular de accumulandis gradibus, thanks him for his interposition. His desire is to propose nothing but what is just and honourable, and in such manner as no man of quality may have cause to except against. Mr. Bayly has forgotten himself to Mr. Vice-Chancellor, and not spared the Bishop, who pities his passion and shall pass it by for his father's sake. Hopes Bayly will make this his warning, else he will quickly make him know that the Bishop's proposals are far from tricks to catch him or others. Prideaux should chide him into better temper. P. S. in the Bishop's own hand. Begs him to be more careful of the Act Questions. The late question about the sickness was unseasonable. His Majesty took great distaste at it, and commanded the Bishop to write to Prideaux about it. This is a private advertisement which none knows but himself. [Copy.]
Oct. 15. 46. Bishop Laud to Dr. William Smith, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford. States his objections to the cumulation of degrees, but he thinks a time should have been prefixed before his views were put in execution, that so no man might be taken upon the sudden as Mr. Bayly and Mr. Hodges are reported to be. A long custom, though never so bad, should have a warning peal before its dissolution. Recommends him to call the heads together and settle everything as statute requires. [Copy of a portion of the letter.]
Oct. 16. 47. Philip Burlamachi to Sec. Dorchester. Sends a packet of foreign letters. Two of them are for the King, one from Hamburgh, the other from Amsterdam. No one has written to him. Spinola is at last dead, and his secretary for foreign languages has returned to Brussels. He had fallen into a frenzy. Fr.
Oct. 16.
Hampton Court.
48. James Earl of Carlisle to Sir Henry Vane, Ambassador at the Hague. The progress and want of conveniency of sending to him has made him thus long defer. They have had much discourse there of his negotiation and carriage, and both his master and friends are very well satisfied and acknowledge his dexterity, zeal, and judgment. He will find but little alteration in Court, and they expect to find none at all in him.
Oct. 16.
Wokingham.
49. John Knight to Francis Windebank. Has perused, apparently, the draft of a lease to be granted by Windebank to Mr. Halsted. He is to pay "17s. 6d. for an ancient custom of Eyle silver."
Oct. 16.
Tresmere, near Bodmin.
50. Sir Francis Godolphin to [Nicholas]. Particulars of a wreck which happened in the Islands of Scilly some years since are at length arrived in the main. A due appraisement and just account shall shortly be given in.
Oct. 16.
The Mint.
51. Answer of the Officers of the Mint "to the calumnies of "Nicholas Briot, delivered in a petition to his Majesty, and referred to "Mr. Attorney General." They deny the truth of his allegation that they had not provided him with sufficient lodging for his instruments, workmen, and household, and pray that when he shall give notice to be fitted with his instruments, some judicious persons in those businesses may be joined with the officers of the Mint, to make report on the trial undertaken by him to be made.
Oct. 17.
Eccleshall Castle.
52. Sir Charles Vavasour to Sec. Dorchester. Reminds him of a letter from the ever-honoured Queen of Bohemia on the writer's behalf. Understanding the Marquis of Hamilton is undertaking a charge for Sweden, and that there is other action afoot for Venice, he prays for employment.
Oct. 17.
Hampton Court.
53. Minutes by Nicholas of business to be considered at the next meeting for affairs of the Admiralty. The business comprised the dealing with the 23 Hollanders brought into Yarmouth by Capt. Sydenham; instructions for Capt. Plumleigh; Sir Thomas Walsingham's application for a new warrant; the intended sale of the St. John of Dunkirk to Frenchmen [ordered to be prevented]; Capt. Cooper's complaint against Mellow; Sir William Killigrew's complaint against Hum. Bonithon, Lieut. to Sir Francis Vivian, Keeper of St. Mawes' Castle; to consider of repairs of the forts at Milton and Gravesend.
Oct. 17. 54. Copy of part of the preceding.
Oct. 18.
Hampton Court.
55. The King to Attorney General Heath. He was heretofore directed to prepare a pardon for William Grinkin, of a censure imposed upon him and one Gill in the Star Chamber. The King is now inclined to extend his mercy to them both, their cases not much differing. He is to prepare a pardon for both accordingly.
Oct. 18.
Hampton Court.
56. The same to Sir William Balfour. Appointment as Lieutenant of the Tower void by the death of Sir Allen Apsley. [Copy.]
Oct. 18.
Hampton Court.
57. The same to Henry Earl of Manchester, Oliver Viscount Grandison, Henry Viscount Falkland, and Edward Viscount Newburgh. The Lieutenancy of the Tower being void, the King has made choice of Sir William Balfour, one of the gentlemen of the Privy Chamber, to commit the same to him. They are accordingly to repair thither, and on view taken of such things as were in the late Lieutenant's charge, to deliver the same over to Sir William, with the present letters, and also to publish the King's pleasure to all inferior officers of the Tower, and command them to be obedient to him, and namely [especially] the gentleman porter to deliver him the keys. [Copy.]
Oct. 18. 58. Attorney General Heath to Sec. Dorchester. The bill for a grant to the widow Kennedy (see Vol. clxiii., No. 22.), has been ready for the King's signature, but stayed at the instance of Sir James Fullerton, on behalf of one William Kennedy, who for name's sake made a claim. Since that time the young man has committed so great a fault that Sir James desires he should be sent out of the kingdom, but the Attorney General has mediated that he should have 40l. to defray his charge. Begs him now to prefer the bill to the King for his signature.
Oct. 18.
Aboard the Convertive.
59. William Thomas, purser of the Convertive, to Nicholas. The Convertive has been ready to grave ever since the 5th of this month. Having no money the shipwrights could not proceed. They have lost the benefit of two springs. The next will be the 25th. Prays him to hasten the money. The victualler has paid 300l. towards their four months' victuals, so far as the money received Mr. Holt will go and no farther. The King is at charge of 240 men every day on the Convertive and Tenth Whelp.
Oct. 18.
Bristol.
60. William Willett and Robert Kitchen to Nicholas. Mr. Wright, one of the Commissioners for sale of the St. John of Dunkirk, is now in London, and will impart to him the whole particulars. Send an account of what has been taken out of the ship. It was done by those that long since went out of the ship, and are not to be found. What salt Sir Thomas Button had, they presume he will give a fair account of. The quantity landed out of the ship will be testified.
Oct. 19. 61. Edward Johnson to [the same]. Recommends — Williams, gunner of the Esperance, for gunner of the Tenth Whelp, if the present gunner be dismissed.
Oct. 20.
Hampton Court.
62. Sir Edmund Verney, Robert Tirwhitt, and Edward Sydenham, to Lord President Conway. The King had on their intercession agreed to show mercy to William Sneade, who for an unfortunate act has been banished his country these 17 or 18 years. Find that three or four years ago the Lord President stayed such a pardon. Pray him to withdraw his opposition.
Oct. 20,
Kensford.
63. Thomas Windham to Edward Earl of Dorset, Lord Chamberlain to the Queen. Derrick Popley, of Bristol, sent down one Yeomans of the same place along Severn, on the English side, to buy up all the salt he could get. At Barnstable Yeomans pretended he had a fishing voyage, and went from merchant to merchant, and bought up above 700 bushels. At Watchet he and Jacob Andrewes of Bridgewater bought up the lading of two French ships. Salt has in consequence risen from 4s. 8d. to 15s. the bushel, to the great grievance of all people, and ruin of many poor fishers for herrings.
Oct. 20.
Oxford.
64. Bishop Howson, of Durham, to Bishop Laud. Sends papers from which he may guess at the reason that moved the Lord President to solicit Bishop Laud for that prebend. (See Vol. clxxiv., No. 9.) The straight the writer is in arises from his desire to yield his poor kinsman some comfort for his many sufferings for the writer in body, estate, and good name, wherefore he gave him a promise under seal of his first prebend; again, there are his Majesty's letters, procured by Mr. Gib, for one Maxton, a Scottishman, who has already obtained a good benefice by the like letters, and is a very rich man, having increased his estate by secular means, as by farming Sherborne, and managing Mr. Gib's lands. But cannot deny Bishop Laud any contentment, especially this which may also give contentment to the Lord President. Leaves the matter in the hands of Bishop Laud, but begs he may not be pressed with the King's letters for the next prebend. Has sometimes pitied Smart on his protestation of future conformity. Conceives that so many innovations in Church service superstitiously urged, and displeasing to other men well affected, drove him into the most intolerable actions, for which it is reported he shall not be deprived, if the writer shall have power to dispose of his livings.
Oct. 20. 65. Kenrick Edisbury to Mr. Gibbon. Begs him to advertise "my Lord" that all the money to defray charges at Portsmouth for the Convertive and the Tenth Whelp, has been provided. The remainder is to buy stores to be sent from hence.
Oct. 20. 66. Inventory by William Drake, of tenths of the Gabriel of St. Giles, taken by the St. George, John Cooke, captain, and brought into Bristol, June 1629.
Oct. 20. 67. Presentments made by Thomas Steavens, alias Tincker, and John Godfrey, Churchwardens of Caerwent, co. Monmouth. They charge John Dowle, D.D., the vicar of Caerwent, with various omissions of clerical duty, and acts of immorality with many of his female parishioners.
Oct. 20. 68. Certificate of John Reynolds, master gunner of England, of the competency of Thomas Williams to serve gunner in any of his Majesty's ships.
Oct. 21. 69. Exchequer account of Receipts and Issues from the 14th October to this day. Among the payments are, Ja. Bradshaw, 25l.; Sir Stephen Lesieur, 25l.; Sir John Peyton, 196l. 15s. 1d. Total receipts, 1,348l. 17s. 5d.; payments, 2,739l. 0s. 7d.; remain, 738l. 17s. 11d.
Oct. 22.
Croydon.
70. Archbishop Abbot to Sec. Dorchester. Praises God for the King's care for the residence of Bishops and others, whereof he purposes to give account at the time appointed, which is in the beginning of January. Being to have a consecration of the Bishop of Peterborough, he has been put to all his shifts to get Bishops thither, and what will become of it he cannot promise until Sunday next. Has been constrained to put it to the last day of the twenty, and has sent messengers from man to man, to require them on their canonical obedience to assist at that service. The fear of the pestilence and the dislocating of the Term, has so far put things out of order.
Oct. 22. 71. John West to the same. Thanks for favours to himself and his nephew, Capt. Sibthorpe. Begs him to further the latter with the King. He is the Sec.'s "vowed creature."
[Oct. 22.] 72. Petition of George Tayler, purser of the Assurance, to the Lords of the Admiralty. Being very infirm, prays that he may resign to Laurence Fisher.
Oct. 22. 73. George Tayler to Nicholas. Formerly wrote to him concerning the placing of John Hart as purser in the Assurance, in the writer's stead. Hart having relinquished the same, he now desires Nicholas to further the appointment of Laurence Fisher.
Oct. 22. 74. Kenrick Edisbury and Stephen Alcock to the same. Recommend Laurence Fisher to succeed George Tayler.
Oct. 23.
Fort near Plymouth.
75. Sir James Bagg to the Lords of the Admiralty. On the 21st inst., six Dutch men-of-war cruising from the east Plymouthward, off Arme, a small port within three leagues of Plymouth, espied a Dunkirker at anchor. The Dunkirker, seeing the Dutchmen, put into Arme, where Mr. Pollexfen went aboard, and seized her to the King's use. After the ship had been divers hours aground, on the flood, the Dutchmen sent in three boats, turned ashore the English, and put to sea with the Dunkirker. Conceives they will think this an act of great boldness and unjustifiable, and will require satisfaction.
Oct. 23.
Fort near Plymouth.
76. Sir James Bagg to Nicholas. Sends him the above letter, and begs him to press it as much as he can. The Dutch are bold both in doing wrong and seeking right. The Dunkirker was five hours in possession of his Majesty. The name of the Dutch captain is thought to be Quaster. The Dunkirk ship is the George, about 80 tons, six pieces, and four murderers, with 100 men.
Oct. 23.
Hurst.
77. Margaret Lady Savile to Sec. Dorchester. Incloses a letter with a suit in behalf of her brother's daughter, Sir Thomas Dacres' sister. If he will join with Judge Jones, they are assured to obtain the place. If her nephew Dacre come home before the Sec. goes from Theobalds, he will be a suitor on his sister's behalf.
Oct. 24. 78. Petition of Daniel Gorsuch, merchant in London, to the Council. Petitioner shipped into Barbary, in the Harry of London, bound for Tetuan, ten tons of iron. Giles Penn, who carried letters from his Majesty to the Governor of the town, agreed to sell the iron, but it was afterwards sold by others, and the money made thereof returned in the same ship to London. Richard Berrisford, who had obtained a royal protection for Penn, pretending the produce of the iron to be the estate of Penn, has attached the same in the hands of the factors. Prays that Berrisford may be called before the Lords, and commanded to withdraw his attachment. Underwritten,
78. i. Order for Berrisford to attend the Board on Friday next. Hampton Court, 1630, Oct. 24.
Oct. 24. 79. Capt. Henry Skipwith to Sec. Dorchester. Being unwell, begs him to cause the writer's cousin, Matthew Carleton, or Dorchester's secretary, Mr. Lucas, to call upon him for the case and questions respecting the suit which he had lately preferred, and to carry them to Mr. Hadsor, of his Majesty's Council for Irish causes.
Oct. 24.
From his house in Cardiff.
80. Sir Thomas Button to Nicholas. On Thursday last arrived in the road of Pennarth, having been ever since the last of September coming from Dublin, and so much beaten with storms that he has neither cables, sails, ropes, or ought else, and so much out of health as to be unable to travel. Hopes in ten days to deliver to the Lords a letter from the Lords Justices of Ireland, desiring that the pay of both Whelps and their supply of stores may be paid and furnished here, the pay until Michaelmas, and the stores for some months to come. Begs immediate order for graving and trimming his ship. Was stayed at Dublin three weeks, to waft over a ship which belongs to his Majesty, and whereof one Mr. Demetrius had the care. She was insufficiently supplied, and in a gale of wind she lost Button's ship, and bore up for Dublin. Begs speedy dispatch that he may haste back to Ireland. Hears that the Dunkirk ship that he brought in has been bestowed on others.
Oct. 24.
Penshurst.
81. Robert Earl of Liecester to James Earl of Carlisle. The Earl of Carlisle is so noble in his favours, that if a man be not well provided of gratitude, there is danger in making a request to him. Thanks for his recent favour in giving the Earl of Leicester a lodging, both in his house and his heart. The Earl of Leicester has but one heart. There is but one room in it, and there come but few guests to be lodged there. They who are entertained are so at home as they may do what they will, and "as we say, [may] throw "the house out at the window." The Earl of Carlisle is there.
Oct. 24. 82. Distribution among the servants of Archbishop Abbot of 4l., given by Dr. Piers, Bishop of Peterborough, at his consecration.
Oct. 25. 83. Account of Matthew de Quester for carriage of packets from foreign countries for his Majesty's service, from 7 April 1630 to this day. Total, 150l. 10s. [Underwritten is a memorandum that on the 2 Nov. 1630, 135l. was allowed thereupon.]
Oct. 25.
Scadbury.
84. Sir Thomas Walsingham to Nicholas. Is glad to hear the Lords' resolution. Hereafter, let things go which way they will, he will not meddle. The 3rd of this month there was a great wreck of a Rotterdam ship, bound for Venice, on the coast of Kent, near the North Foreland, two miles from shore. Goods from this wreck, taken up by men that dwell in the writer's jurisdiction and presented in his courts, have been claimed by the Court of Admirality, by which means the Duchess and himself shall lose their shares and the right of his place. Wishes advice thereon. All wrecks are granted to him in his patent.
Oct. 25.
Exeter College.
85. Dr. John Prideaux to Bishop Land. Thanks him for undeserved favours, and trusts his future expressions will justify his thankfulness. They are all bound to praise God that the Bishop sets his thoughts to reform what is amiss among them. For cumulations, sees not what could be more deliberately set down than his last advertisement. Mr. Bayly accounts himself made by the Bishop's goodness. He has been well chid, and acknowledged his folly. That untoward question at the last Act was never approved by the writer in those terms it passed. Will take care that hereafter no such occasion of exception be given. Tenders to his consideration the neglect of divinity disputations for term these five years past, and the proceeding of divers in law of late to the prejudice of divinity.
Oct. 25. 86. Inventory and appraisement of goods taken up by John Snedall and Richard Punnett out of a wreck within the ViceAdmiralty of Kent; total value, 50l. 5s.
Oct. 25. 87. Indictment found at a Sessions held at Pool [Welshpool], in co. Montgomery, against Charles Griffith, for the murder of John Owen, at Newtown, in that county.
Oct. 26. 88. Petition of Thomas Ivett, late master gunner of the Crane, to the Lords of the Admiralty. The Crane being sold, and he the ancientest gunner that belongs to his Majesty, prays that he may be continued in pay until some other place fall void. [Indorsed, "Thos. Ivett to be gunner in Warham Sconce."]
Oct. 26.
Hampton Court.
89. Lord President Conway to Sec. Dorchester. Moved his gracious master for leave to put himself into the hands of Dr. Mayerne, to finish the course of physic he was in, which having obtained, he is going to Langley. If there be occasion for his service, hopes he shall be able to come at a short warning. Good wishes for the Sec. and his noble lady.
Oct. 27.
Portsmouth.
90. William Thomas, Purser of the Convertive, to Nicholas. The Convertive and Tenth Whelp cannot be victualled for four months, according to the order to Mr. Holt, because the money remitted is only for three months. Begs him to let the Lord Treasurer know so much, if his captain be not in town, to whom he has written.
Oct. 28. 91. Petition of Edward Boys, of Bunnington, co. Kent, to the King. Petitioner's son and heir, John Boys, being at Canterbury, one Thomas Alcock, "an infirm person, resorting ordinarily to stran"gers' company," most uncivilly provoked him with such insufferable language as young men who have seen the wars can very hardly digest, and which incited petitioner's son to give him a blow on the head, of which he died. The coroner's inquest has found petitioner's son guilty of manslaughter. Prays that he may taste of his Majesty's clemency, dispensed on the birth of the Prince. Underwritten,
91. i. Reference to the Mayor and Recorder of Canterbury to certify the truth of the circumstances. Hampton Court, 1630, Oct. 28.
91. ii. Report of the Mayor and Recorder of Canterbury. They send copies of the coroner's inquest and grand jury, whereby it appears that John Boys is guilty of manslaughter. Canterbury, 1630, Nov. 4.
91. iii. Reference to the Attorney General to prepare the solicited pardon. Whitehall, 1630, Nov. 15.
Oct. 28. 92. Petition of Ralph Killinghall, ensign to Capt. William Halls, to the same. A little before the last voyage to Rochelle petitioner was married to Mary Hutchins, he not remembering that he was contracted to Elizabeth Pressith [Presick]. Since his return, Elizabeth Pressith had so prevailed with him, by reason of the pre-contract, that he had made her his wife, whereupon Mary Hutchins had prosecuted the law against him, and he is now convict and condemned. In consideration of his services, and his descent from the house of Manners of Rutland, prays for a pardon. Underwritten,
92. i. Certificate of Sir Heneage Finch, the Recorder, which sets forth the circumstances of the petitioner's two marriages, and recommends him for mercy. 1630, Oct. 28.
92. ii. Direction to the Attorney General to prepare the solicited pardon. Whitehall, 1630, Nov. 15.
Oct. 28.
Hampton Court.
93. The King to Attorney General Heath. To prepare a pardon for John Hurst, late of the Inner Temple, Esquire, convicted by his own confession of manslaughter in killing Bartiue [Bertie ?] Haselrig.
Oct. 28. 94. Petition of William Daynes and Roger Daynes, his son, to the King. Roger Daynes had the loan of 10 drakes, with their carriages, belonging to the King, which came to 229l., for which petitioners gave bond for 300l. By means of these drakes petitioners brought in three prizes, of the value of 7,000l., the benefit whereof came to the King, but by casualty of the sea petitioners lost their two ships and the said drakes, to their utter undoing. Their whole estate is now extended, and Roger Daynes is in durance in consequence of his inability to return the borrowed drakes. Petitioners pray that under the circumstances they may be freed from their said bond. Underwritten,
94. i. Reference to the Master and Lieutenant of the Ordnance to certify what they think fit for his Majesty to do. Hampton Court, 1630, Oct. 28.
Oct. 28. 95. Henry Earl of Kent and Thomas Earl of Cleveland, Lord Lieutenants of co. Bedford, to the Council. The plague has been so generally dispersed through that county that they have hitherto forborne the training of the companies of horse and foot.
Oct. 28.
Lambeth.
96. Archbishop Abbot to Sec. Dorchester. Reports what became of their consecration at Croydon on Sunday last. The Bishop of Winchester took the pains to see them, and Oxford also, the latter being called from home by authority. Rochester was in the summer time beat from his house at Bromley by the plague, but the Archbishop sent for him up out of Berkshire. St. David's also, being in London, was sent for, but had like to have sunk down in a swoon in the chapel. Has no return from the Bishops but that his Majesty's Injunctions are well observed. The Bishop of Ely is very sick of the dropsy in London, whither he is forced to come up for help of the physicians. Durham will be accounted for by the Archbishop of York.
Oct. 29.
Whitehall.
97. Abstract of a Commission [from the King] to Anthony Wither and Samuel Lively to repair into the cos. of Gloucester, Wilts, Oxon, and Somerset, and the several places there where white cloth is usually made, and there to notify the Commission and inquire in a manner therein directed how the statutes for true cloth-making are executed.
Oct. 29. 98. Petition of Sir William Saunderson to the Council. A few years since, petitioner being not well stored with ready money, was forced to take up of Richard Mawdet [Mauduit ?], silkman, certain wares at an unconscionable rate, to the value of 46l., for which he gave bond. Afterwards, petitioner assigned over to Mawdet two debentures of greater value than the debt, but Mawdet would not wait until his Majesty's occasions could permit the debentures to be paid, but arrested and imprisoned petitioner, although he knew he was the King's servant. Mawdet was thereupon committed by the Marquis Hamilton, but petitioner, on Mawdet's entreaty, procured his release on his delivering up petitioner's bond and executing a release. Mawdet having lately petitioned the Council, and petitioner having been ordered to show cause, he now prays to be dismissed from further attendance. Underwritten,
98. i. Order of the Council that if Mawdet shall further petition, the Clerk of the Council shall put the Lords in mind of this answer of Sir William Saunderson.
Oct. 29.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
99. Certificate of proceedings of the Mayor and Aldermen of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, as Commissioners for conservancy of the Tyne, from Easter to Michaelmas 1630.
Oct. 29.
Langley.
100. Lord President Conway to William Weld. Directs him to use all the Lord President's influence to procure Sir Giles Bray and the Lord President's cousin Maxwell to be omitted from the bill of Sheriffs. Prays him to examine the houses, the Lady of Orgilles [Argyle's ?] and the Lady Davesses [Davis's], and help the writer to resolve which to prefer. Will send a coach to Richmond on the morrow for money business. Weld knows his distress. Wishes to be informed whether he will have the leases for Ireland sent by the next opportunity.
Oct. 29. 101. Sir Thomas Roe to Sir Robert Anstruther. It is thought that our peace with Spain is made. The articles sent from hence [thence ?] were corrected by his Majesty, and returned signed with a peremptory order to change nothing. Believes the success of the war or peace in Italy will guide them. Discussion in Court on an article of the treaty of Ratisbon between France and Spain, that the French have renounced their alliances, and by name the King of Sweden. That King does not rely upon the French, and it matters not much what they do, for a bigotry governs them, and Roe is persuaded that all leagues with any papist-blinded estate are Egyptian reeds, and that all their inward counsels are directed to root out our religion. Our Court is constant. The Lord Treasurer only is able to open and shut. He is Anstruther's friend, and will be publicly obliged to him if he will make peace. Roe himself has let fall an anchor in the country, and has as little belief of preferment as ambition. These are not times for him and his rules. [Copy.]
Oct. 29.
St. Martin's Lane.
102. The same to the Queen of Bohemia. Knows now less than when he thought he knew nothing. Next year will be a blab and tell all, and we shall know who is cozened. Now the jugglers are in high action at Ratisbon, where he wishes they may not mistake the medicine of peace and make rat's-bane for us all proscribed heretics. No plays these six months, and that makes our statesmen see the good use of them. If our heads had been filled with the loves of Pyramus and Thisbe, or the various fortunes of Don Quixote, we should never have cared who had made peace or war, but on the stage. Now every fool is inquiring what the French do in Italy, and what they treat in Germany. Perhaps Sir John Finet, as Master of Ceremonies, can say more to her Majesty. Roe finds it safe enough to be her Majesty's fool. If she laughs at him, it is all he asks.
Oct. 29. 103. Sir Edward Bagshaw to Endymion Porter. Sir James Ware, his Majesty's auditor, has informed the writer that no sum being set down in the estimate of the customs for Porter's "tenth and a "half from his Majesty," he must expect no more thenceforth, although the customs should improve.
Oct. 29. 104. Particular of the first works intended to be done for repairing the Vanguard at Woolwich, according to a schedule dated 1st of May last. Sum agreed for doing the work, 530l.
Oct. 29. 105. Exchequer account of Receipts and Issues from 21 Oct. inst. to this day. Among the payments is 118l. 12s. 6d. paid to Colman, Brown, and others, in all 13, knights of Windsor, in sums of 9l. 2s. 6d. each. The receipts amounted to 3,038l. 7s. 7½d.; the payments to 2,964l. 16s. 2d.; there remained in hand 812l. 9s. 4½d. [Damaged by damp.]
Oct. 30. 106. Statement by Roger Langford of the office and duty of the Clerk of the Prick and Check at Deptford, as the same was executed by Philip Ellis.
Oct. 30. 107. Copy of the preceding, with an underwritten confirmatory certificate of Edward Dalton, who served from 1577 to 1599, as clerk to William Holstock and William Borough, Comptrollers of the Navy. [Copy.]
Oct. 30. 108. Another copy, similar to the preceding.
Oct. 109. Petition of the distressed prisoners in the King's Bench and Fleet for debt, to the King. Queen Elizabeth granted a commission to the Archbishop of Canterbury and other dignified officers and their successors for release of poor prisoners for debt. In July last the King caused her said act to be exemplified, but the said Commissioners have not yet executed their commission, although moved to do so by the prisoners. Pray that they may be commanded to do so.
Oct. 110. Petition of Robert Kemp, of Chenston [Chaunston], co. Hereford, to the same. Petitioner being young, and having occasion to resort to London, was seduced to marry Elizabeth Cooke, a woman of mean condition, his former wife being yet living. Prays a pardon.
[Oct. ?] 111. Petition of Sem Whitton, Innholder of Bristol, to the Council. For many years the house where petitioner dwells has been resorted to by carriers, with a great number of horses. Prays, that notwithstanding the proclamation of 28 Sept. last, he may have liberty to buy in cos. Somerset and Gloucester 50 lasts of wheat, oats, and beans, he giving security to expend the same in his own house.
[Oct. ?] 112. Dr. John Moseley to the Council. Having discovered some special means whereby the differences in Church and State might be composed, his desire was to have opened himself to the King, but his Majesty having referred the matter to the Council, the writer scruples about revealing his proposals to that body, considering from its nature that to do so would ensure the frustration of his scheme. Before another Parliament be called the King should enjoin a public fast.
[Oct. ?] 113. [Lords of the Admiralty] to the Officers of the Navy. To enter John Johnson as boatswain of the Nonsuch, in the room of Henry Place. [Draft. Indorsed are notes by Nicholas, apparently with a view to the preparation of some paper relating to an encroachment on the King's sovereignty of the Narrow Seas.]