Charles I - volume 342: Undated 1636

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1636-7. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1867.

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'Charles I - volume 342: Undated 1636', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1636-7, (London, 1867) pp. 306-326. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas1/1636-7/pp306-326 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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Undated 1636

1. Offer of Alessandro Gatti, Majorduomo of the Venetian Ambassador in England, to preserve wheat and other kinds of grain for ten years from all corruption, external or internal, and particularly from rats and other noxious animals. [¼ p.] Underwritten,
1. i. Note from [Lord Fielding to Lord Treasurer Juxon ?] that the above-named gentleman had made the above strange offer, which he was desirous to discover to some personage of authority. Sends the proposition, and refers it to the wisdom of the person addressed. [½ p.]
2. Points to be considered respecting an invention of two Dutchmen. They offer an invention of a gum, whereby all kinds of clothes, linen, woollen, silk, leather, &c., can be made impenetrable by water or air. The gum is made of oils and other things so that it dries very easily; and though astringent, remains limber. It is principally put forth as applicable to apparel, so as to make it resist rain, to make durable tents, to pack up all manner of goods, and to make nets, ropes, sacks, girdles for swimming, bridges for soldiers to pass rivers, windmills, and sails. The invention is offered first to the King, as being the defender of the Protestant faith. [2 pp.]
3. Statement by [Sir Robert Osborne] of acts done by Sir Francis Crane, which induced Sir Robert to say that Sir Francis had taken the forfeiture of the honor of Grafton. Courts were kept and rents received by Sir Francis in his own name; new estates were let in his name; fines were received by him; church livings were disposed of; and materials were carried from Grafton House to build Stoke Lodge, being Sir Francis's inheritance. Sir Robert protests that for all other matters alleged in a declaration to his Majesty, he had no meaning but to have the King redeem the mortgage from Sir Francis Crane. [2/3 p.]
4. Copy of the preceding. [2/3 p.] Annexed,
4. i. Note of a lease made 16th September 1633, by Sir Francis Crane, to Richard Church and Ann his wife, of a cottage in Hartwell, for 31 years, at the yearly rent of 3s. 4d., and on payment of a fine of 13l. 6s. 8d. [⅓ p.]
5. Sir Francis Crane to the Council. Answer to the paper delivered by Sir Robert Osborne. His present interest in the lands of Grafton is,—first, the mortgage, which was for two years and upon which there was lent 7,500l.; second, upon a promise made since by his Majesty, that for 6,000l., Sir Francis should have passed to him 200l. a year of those lands in fee farm. Upon this promise, about three years since, he paid 5,000l. With his proceedings in both these, Sir Robert Osborne was acquainted, and knew that the forfeiture upon the first was neither taken nor intended to be taken, and that he, Sir Francis, was rather desirous to give over the latter bargain than to proceed in it. Notwithstanding Sir Robert's knowledge of these circumstances, of which Sir Francis states facts in proof, Sir Robert informed the King that the forfeiture was taken, and to prove it, alleged the facts stated in the paper last calendared. Sir Francis answers that all these alleged facts were warranted by his letters patent, and that he is accountable for all that he has done on repayment of his money. Sir Francis concludes that Sir Robert sought not for truth in what he had done, but that he had cast aspersions upon Sir Francis with the view of injuring him in the estimation of the King and of the world. [2¾ pp.]
6. Petition of Robert Ryther, keeper of the Castle of York, to the same. The said castle and gaol being in great decay, two orders have been made by the Justices of Assize, that the Justices of Peace should take order for repair of the same, together with the present erecting of a house of correction. Further, they were required to levy money for building the house of correction, and for a stock to set the poor on work, and for binding poor children apprentices. The Justices of the North Riding have made an order therein, but those of the West and East Ridings have not met according to the order made at the assizes, although the gaol and castle are so ruinous that petitioner is enforced to watch the same, and yet divers prisoners have escaped since the last assizes; and many who are in gaol for petty offences are likely to starve, while others are very unruly, all which might be helped by erecting a house of correction. Prays the Lords to redress the neglects aforesaid. [1 p.]
7. The King to the Master and Fellows of a College not named. Understands that his servant, J. Crane, one of the clerks of the kitchen, has two sons of their house, and that William Crane, the eldest, being a fellow there, is willing to resign his fellowship to Robert Crane, the other brother, now a scholar there. Recommends him to be admitted on his brother's resignation. [¾ p.]
8. Certificate of Dr. Brian Duppa, the Dean of Christ Church, Oxford, and three others, that James Chudleigh, B.A., of Christ Church, had been four years in the university, had given himself diligently to his studies, and had conducted himself piously and soberly, and that as to those things which belong to religion he had not believed or held anything save what might be gathered from the Old and New Testament, and which the Church of England at that day approved. [Latin. 1 p.]
9. Notes, by Nicholas, of Orders of the [Lords of the Admiralty], upon petitions of Browne and Sutton, and of Mondeford. On the former the order was, that the petitioners should be discharged, giving Halse satisfaction for his undue arrest, and paying their fees; in the latter that petitioner should be discharged, paying his fees. [4 lines.]
10. List of manorial and other privileges claimed by the Earl of Norwich as appurtenant to lands not named. They are stated to have been granted by the crown to the abbots of Waltham, and since to have been allowed to the Earl upon a quo warranto, brought against him in the King's Bench. [2/3 p.]
11. Minute of application of Viscount Chaworth, for a grant of the forfeiture of his brother, Lieutenant Thomas Chaworth, convicted of manslaughter, for being in the company of John Jones when he slew Thomas Merick. [½ p.]
12. John Ashburnham to Nicholas. Narrates an interview with Lord Hertford in relation to an agreement made with him for a lease for lives, which the writer had taken for Nicholas. Lord Hertford had made a bad bargain with Ashburnham, which had been discovered by his officers, and after discussion, it was agreed to add one year's purchase more, provided Mrs. Goddard, who seems to have been the then lessee in possession, should die before the sealing of the new lease. Mr. Brue had the counterpart of the original lease, and he was in London; but Lord Hertford had promised to get a copy of the lease itself on his going to Netley. Ashburnham wishes Nicholas not to conceal the matter any longer from his father. [Seal with arms. 1 p.]
13. James Levingstone to Sir David Cunningham, Receiver-General for his Majesty, at the Council House, next to the sign of the Lute. Has received a letter from Sir James Carmichael, to put Cunningham in mind to receive his pension, for which he must be quick; desires him also to receive the writer's pension, which is 250l., the fees, and 20l. more being abated for his brother Alexander. Sir James Carmichael writes that Robert Alleyn is dead. [1 p.]
14. Dr. Paul Micklethwaite to Mr. Savile. Entreats him to pay the money that is due to the writer to the bearer, Richard Pickard, his servant. [⅓ p.]
15. Philip Warwick to Mr. Savile. Prays him to let Simon Prickles set his hand to the book for the writer's pension, being 50l., and 10l. for his father. [¼ p.]
16. Petition of Bartholomew du Masson to the Council. Petitioner levied a troop of horse in the town of Emden for the King's service, at the instance of Mr. Dulbier, and became engaged to the said town in several sums of money, which money Dulbier has received from his Majesty. On complaint to his Majesty, there was a reference to the Lord Treasurer, who committed the decision thereof to Sir David Cunningham and Mr. Burlamachi, who found that Dulbier had received from his Majesty the moneys claimed by the town of Emden and petitioner, and was indebted to them 7,080 florins, and to Adam Arsemberg 1,670 florins. Although Dulbier has kept the money these nine years, petitioner has been for these nine months fed with delays, which redound to the ruin of petitioner, who dares not return by reason of his engagements to the said town. Prays them to cause Dulbier to give speedy satisfaction. [1 p.]
17. The like of Rachel Andrews, wife of Peter Andrews, mariner, prisoner in the Marshalsea, to the same Petitioner's husband, upon the complaint of Edward Kinswell, has been a prisoner full 16 months. As she knows not when the Lords and other Commissioners for Foreign Plantations will meet, and in the prison many have lately died of spotted fever, she prays the Lords not to let her husband suffer any longer for a dispute between Mr. Vassall and Mr. Kinswell, but to give order for his enlargement till the Commissioners for Plantations shall sit. [1 p.]
18. [Francis Egiock to George] Rawdon. Prays Rawdon to pay 3l. to Mr. Burgh. Has received from him 20s. for a sword and 30s. for a coat. A quarter's wages is now due to the writer. [1 p.]
19. Petition of Henry Whitney to Sir John Lambe, Dean of the Arches. Has long had a dependency on the Court of Arches and the other courts ecclesiastical. Finding Sir John to be the chief disposer of the steward's place, then vacant, petitions in favour of his brother, who is a bachelor and approved by Dr. Zouch and some other doctors. [½ p.]
20. The like of William Younge, prisoner in the Fleet, to the Council. Petitioner being a gentleman of about 500l. per annum in the country, and having occasion to use 1,000l. in discharge of debts and legacies, procured that sum of Alderman Parkhurst, late Lord Mayor of London, and for security entered into a statute staple of 1,000l. Times of payment accruing and 150l. remaining unsatisfied, petitioner delivered that sum to Robert Paddon, but he detained the same, and petitioner to save the extent of his lands, was enforced to procure the money elsewhere. The payment of this 150l. being delayed by Paddon about six years, petitioner is now a prisoner for money taken up to save his estates, and Paddon being deputy paymaster under Sir William Uvedale, pretends privilege in his Majesty's service. Petitioner being an aged gentleman, and desiring to end his days in the society of his wife and children, prays the Lords to direct Paddon to give him satisfaction. [¾ p.]
21. Instructions to Counsel to prepare a settlement of the estates of Thomas Earl of Cleveland, comprising the manors of Stepney and Hackney in Middlesex, and Toddington, Tingrith, and Harlington, co. Bedford, in order to effect the payment of debts and to make a provision for the Countess, and Thomas Lord Wentworth and his wife. Drawn up by Robert Dixon, the Earl's solicitor. [1⅓ p.]
22. Petition of Robert Phelipps, his Majesty's servant, to the King. Petitioner, for the maintenance of himself and his family abroad, has contracted a great debt, and is involved in suits of law for the recovery of his wife's inheritance. Prays the King to confer upon him the statute office void by the death of Sir Thomas Hampson. [1 p.]
23. The like of Levin Brinkmary, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to Sec. Windebank. Is detained in prison upon Windebank's command, but for what cause is not expressed in the warrant, neither can he imagine. Beseeches the Secretary to send for him that he may know his accusers and accusation. [What follows was added at a subsequent time:] Was the night before examined by the King's attorney and solicitor. In regard that he is a stranger and would return into his native country, prays the Secretary to take his present state into his consideration. Hopes he has discharged his conscience so far as he possibly can. [2/3 p.]
24. The like of the same to the Council. Petitioner ignorantly and most innocently receiving two letters from a woman, a mere stranger to petitioner, which letters concerned the state of this kingdom, he did in loyal obedience discover the same, for which he was by Sec. Windebank committed to the Gatehouse, where he has remained these 32 weeks, suffering unspeakable misery for want of necessary sustenance, he being a stranger far remote from country and friends, and utterly destitute of means. Thought that he had done the King and State good service, and discharged his conscience, in the delivery of the letters, yet is still detained prisoner for no other cause. Prays warrant for his enlargement, or order for relief during his imprisonment. [Underwritten, "Negatur." 1 p.]
25. Account of William Hunton's incumbrances by judgments and statutes, derived from the records and extending from Michaelmas Term 19th James I., to Trinity Term 12th Car. I. [1 p.]
26. Petition of Robert Wright, prisoner in the King's Bench, to the Council. His father-in-law, Thomas Paradoine, of London, merchant, deceased, in 1604 lent to William Steward upon bond 100l., for which the now Lord Ancram became surety. Neither the principal nor interest has been paid, neither can petitioner take any course for recovery thereof, because Mr. Steward is his Majesty's servant. Prays the Lords to appoint some reasonable time for payment of the 100l. with interest, which if Steward neglect the Lords will give petitioner leave to use such means as he shall be advised. [½ p.]
27. Duplicate of the preceding, save that for 1604, as above stated, this copy reads 1624. [½ p.]
28. Petition of Philip Burlamachi to the King. He that knows all hearts knows with what zeal petitioner has ever served his Majesty. When he failed, his Majesty caused proclamation to be made that though the King owed him little, yet that, if upon examination of his accounts, it should be found that his Majesty were indebted to him, just satisfaction should be made. Thereupon the King granted petitioner his protection, and since continued the same, and made a reference to the Lord Treasurer and Lord Cottington for stating his accounts, who, after long examination, have made a report. Although Burlamachi believes verily that they pity his case and sufferings, yet he finds that, as great and wise officers, they rather turn him to his Majesty's grace, than allow anything for which they find no clear warrants. Their doubts related to disbursements of factorage paid beyond seas, and exchanges of money paid in Scotland, to freights due for ships of petitioners own that served the King, to a debt due upon the rent of sea coals diverted for the King's service, and to the consideration or interest, "pretended" on sums advanced for the King's service, because they find no contract to authorize the allowance. Petitioner answers all these objections seriatim, and shows that the late Lord Treasurer had agreed with him for the allowance of the items now disputed. He prostrates himself before his Majesty's justice and mercy, and prays warrant to allow the disbursements and forbearance objected to, and for the other parcels for charges to allow a sum in gross; to the end that petitioner may satisfy those to whom he is indebted, or else after twelve years spent in the King's service, and many before in his father's time, and after having hitherto enjoyed his liberty by a protection, petitioner will be forced to render his aged body to the misery of a prison. [1 p.] Annexed,
28. i. [Lord Treasurer Portland to the persons appointed to audit the accounts of Philip Burlamachi.] Being informed that they desire to have a particular warrant for casting up the interest "pretended" by Burlamachi, the Lord Treasurer authorizes them "according to justice and equity" to cast the said interest, taking care that the King be not charged doubly. Then is added a list of sums on which interest is to be allowed. [Extract. 1½ p.]
29. The like of Capt. Thomas Dirdoll, Henry Fisher, and Edward Davis, to the Council. The first two petitioners had each of them a son, and the last a brother, taken about twelve months since upon the Irish coast, by the Sallee men-of-war, and sold at Sallee at such rates that petitioners were not able to pay their ransoms. Pray the Lords to take some course for their redemption. [2/3 p.]
30. Instructions for Job Harby concerning the redemption of his Majesty's jewels pawned at Amsterdam, and those that remain in the hands of Philip Calandrini, redeemed in the year 1631. All the transactions, respecting the pawning of the jewels by Sir Sackville Crow in 1625 and 1626, and the subsequent dealings therewith of Philip Calandrini, are here detailed, and many of the jewels are described. The amounts paid for interest are also stated, and various claims of Calandrini are explained, by which he was thought to desire certain undue allowances, in the enforcement of which he took advantage of the circumstance of his having certain of the jewels in his hands. All the accounts were to be settled by Harby, and all the jewels to be redeemed, and on the completion of his mission he was to return to England, and deliver the jewels into the hands of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who had ordinarily the keeping of them. [7 pp.]
31. Draft of the same Instructions, partly in the handwriting of Philip Burlamachi. [French. 5¾ pp.]
32. Petition of Francis Lownes to Lord Treasurer Juxon. Petitioner delivered a petition to the Lords of the Treasury showing that he was employed by the late Lord Chamberlain to attend the Spanish ambassadors whilst they lay at Exeter House, and to furnish them with damask and diaper tabling, to the quantity of 10 or 12 sets a day, with promise before Lord Arundel and other Lords, that he should be royally paid, so that the ambassadors made no complaint, in regard it was upon the treaty of the match with Spain. He had performed the service to the good content of the ambassadors and at his own great cost, having disbursed 300l. besides his own store, and the most part of the said napery being worn out and lost, petitioner was promised 100l. impress money and the rest monthly, but hitherto had not received any part, having only obtained a Privy Seal for 550l. 10s. Prays order to receive the same. [The petition to the Lords of the Treasury above mentioned occurs in Vol. cclxxxiii., No. 20. 2/3 p.]
33. Statement, prepared for some legal purpose, respecting the rights of Mr. Kirke under a grant made the 29th Feb. 1632, of "package, balliage, and scavage." This grant being contested by the city of London, they ultimately compounded with Mr. Kirke for 4,000l., but in January 1635–6, before the matter between Mr. Kirke and the city was completed, Lord Holland got a reference for "ostage," which had been discontinued 300 years. The "common host" had anciently taken the moiety of the scavage, and the revival of this ancient claim occasioned the city to decline the agreement they had made with Mr. Kirke. The question is raised in this paper whether Mr. Kirke was not really entitled to the ostage, and it is suggested that Lord Holland and Mr. Kirke should make common cause. [1 p.]
34. Statement of the case of Francis Wallworth with reference to the office of common packer in the city of London. Wallworth, whose ancestors were memorable in the city of London, being bred a scholar in Trinity College, Cambridge, having since been a clerk in the Sheriff's court in the Guildhall, London, procured the King's letter to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council to grant him the reversion of the office of common packer, which was then held by John Massingbird. Massingbird being unwilling that such a grant should be made, suggested to the court by way of excuse to his Majesty for not making the grant, that Wallworth had obtained letters from the Lord Privy Seal for the reversion of another office, which had been granted him. Wallworth explains this transaction, and shows the small value of the reversion now sought, and that the office had been granted in King James's time on the King's recommendation. [32/3 pp.]
35. Further particulars relative to the office of package mentioned in the preceding article, and Wallworth's claim to the reversion. In the 18th year of Edward IV. the city purchased the office in question of the Crown for 7,000l. [1 p.]
36. Certificate of six Justices of Peace of Middlesex of the names of nine chandlers, mealmen, and millers who sell meal near the city of London, and had been warned to appear before the said Justices to enter into bond not to buy corn within 35 miles of the city. Seven of them had refused to appear, and two to be bound, alleging that they were freemen of the city of London and were to be bound there. [½ p.]
37. Petition of Daniel Pennington, Thomas Foster, and the rest of the tenants of houses on the wastes and grounds belonging to the King near the Tower of London, to the King. Petitioners, to the number of 150 families, have taken estates under a lease of the said grounds made by James I. to Sir Roger Aston for 80 years, at 60l. yearly rent. After long quiet possession they have bestowed great costs in improvements, so that the revenue of the Crown, after the term expired, will be greatly augmented. They have spent much money in suits at law for defence of the King's title, and obtained two verdicts against Mr. Cary, who of late was, and against Mr. Langeston that now is, gentleman-porter of the Tower, who claimed the grounds to belong to their office. On former occasions Sir John Bankes, and formerly Sir Robert Heath, being AttorneyGeneral, assisted petitioners with their counsel. Suits are still depending and to come to trial, but the Attorney-General forbears further to assist petitioners, by reason of some misinformation they fear to have been given by Mr. Langeston. Pray that the AttorneyGeneral may inform the King of the truth of the premises, and may still be of counsel for petitioners as formerly, otherwise his Majesty's title may suffer wrong. [½ p.] Annexed,
37. i. Brief in a case of William Bold, gentleman-porter of the Tower, plaintiff, and the tenants round about the Tower and Tower Ditch, being above 100 families, defendants. The title of the tenants and the grants from the Crown under which they claimed are fully set forth. [1½ p.]
38. Petition of the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens of London to the King. His Majesty having required petitioners to deliver up a bond entered into by Thomas Plummer to petitioners for payment of 400l. for excusing him from holding the office of Sheriff of London and Middlesex, and likewise that he should not be chosen again to that office or to the office of alderman, petitioners present the said bond accordingly. Mr. Plummer was born a citizen, and got a plentiful estate in the city, and being chosen sheriff in 1633 voluntarily entered into the said bond, whereby he freed himself from the expence of about 3,000l. which he must have been at if he had held the place of sheriff, and about a twelve month since being called upon for the money, he then sought the King's favour to free himself from the payment, under pretence of an infirmity in his hearing, which was not at the time of his election so great as is now pretended. Pray the King to leave petitioners at liberty against Mr. Plummer, or to provide that the example may be no prejudice to them in future time. [1 p.]
39. Statement by Nicholas of the injury done to him by Mr. Kinnersley, yeoman of the Wardrobe, who had pulled down an old house adjoining that of Nicholas, had erected a new one of greater height, and had also built up a shed, where none was before, contrary to the proclamation, thus darkening and overlooking some of Nicholas's principal rooms and subjecting him to other inconveniences. [1 p.]
40. Information addressed to the Mayor, Bailiffs, and Burgesses of Leicester, that Daniel Morris, innkeeper, at the White Hart in Belgrave Gate in that borough, having had an ostler die of the plague and divers of his house sick thereof, concealed the same, kept venison feasts, and gave various entertainments to the Earl of Stamford and others of good worth and quality. After seven or eight weeks the plague breaking out in other places of the town, it was discovered that there had died eight or nine of the plague before. [1 p.]
41. The like of John Denne that, as soon as the Earl of Portland alighted out of his coach at Deal, before he could enter the inn whither he was going, a Spaniard complained to him of injustice received from the host of that house, and solicited assistance to recover some things which had been taken from him; the Earl spake with the host, who pretended that the Spaniard owed him 1s 2d., which the Earl offered to pay. The host refused it, and said if the Earl would give him 10l. he would not redeliver what he had. He spake in so uncivil manner that Denne doubted whether he knew the Earl, and told him privately who he was. He answered that he cared for never a Lord in Christendom, for what he had he would keep. Denne spake to his servants to incline him, but by what they said Denne could discern that the host robbed more in his house than any thief could do upon the highway, as could be discerned in the case of this Spaniard, for as soon as he had fettered him with so small a debt, he stripped him out of his clothes, and finding nothing but a dial in his pocket kept that and his clothes. The Spaniard valued not the dial above five rials of eight, the host at above 10l. There were with the Earl his brother and Mr. Waller, and he gave Denne leave to wait upon him. All of them joined in desiring the Earl to appear in the Spaniard's behalf. [1 p.]
42. Another narrative of the preceding transaction, from which it appears that the inn was the Pelican, and the host's name Robert Smyth, and that, although urged to show the Spaniard's watch, he would not do so. [Endorsed partly by Sec. Windebank or Reade, his secretary. [1¼ p.]
43. Petition of Henry Hunt, M.A., to the King. Petitioner's father was master of the King's free school at Berkhampstead for 30 years, but was lately deceased, leaving a widow and six children destitute. Petitioner prays the King to confer the place on him. [½ p.]
44. The like of Philip, Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery, Lord Chamberlain, on behalf of the collegiate church and the inhabitants of Westminster, whereof petitioner is high steward, to the same. By reason of his Majesty's residence in the said city and that the courts of ordinary justice usually sit there, the concourse of people thither is very great, whence many offences are often committed, which for want of a larger power of jurisdiction in the church or inhabitants, can neither be conveniently punished nor prevented. It is conceived that if the inhabitants were incorporated, with power for punishing offenders, a great good would redound. Prays his Majesty to refer the consideration thereof to the Lord Keeper and Lord Privy Seal. [Slightly imperfect at the close. ¾ p.]
45. The like of Marcellus Croson, William Ingle, William Croxall, and Henry Croson, to the same. The Attorney-General, about two years since, preferred an information in the Star Chamber against John St. John for depopulating Coulderton [Cole-Orton ?], co. Leicester, and converting the lands thereof from tillage to pasture, and petitioners were subpœnaed to come to London to prove the same, which they did. Since which time Mr. St. John, having made his composition for the same, upon spleen drives petitioners out of the said town, where they were born and their ancestors have lived above 100 years, and will not suffer them to have anything there to live upon. Pray the Lords to cause Mr. St. John to suffer them to enjoy some means there to live upon. Underwritten, "Mr. St. John to see the petition and give an answer." [2/3 p.]
46. Statement, in the handwriting of Nicholas, explanatory of the transaction between Endymion Porter and Thomas Kynaston and Samuel Bonnell, to which the deed of covenant calendared under date of the 31st May 1635 had relation. This paper, which seems to be a rough draft and is probably imperfect, contains particulars not mentioned in the deed of covenant. [1 p.]
47. Petition of Thomas Lord Brudenell, to Archbishop Laud, and the other Commissioners for Depopulations. States the manner in which his lordship of Hougham, co. Lincoln, in the 44th Elizabeth and again in the 11th of King James, when the inclosure was parcelled out, was made. It was impossible that he should have dispeopled 27 farms, when there never were more than 21 messuages and 6 of them never kept plough. The inclosures made within man's memory amount not to the decay of one farm, only by enlargement of his park at Deene, two farms are lessened, and yet the park not great. Having paid 500l. of his fine of 1,000l. prays the residue may be remitted, unless thereby he be found to merit ruin. [1 p.]
48. "A note of the moneys laid out for the necessaries of the field of Tuttell [Tothill Fields, Westminster]". The expenditure alluded to was principally in repairs of a house termed the shooting house, in fixing a sun-dial there, and setting up posts in the neighbourhood of it. The total sum was 3l. 7s. 8d. [Damaged by damp. 1 p.]
49. Particular of certain lands in Stoughton, co. Leicester, held in capite, and let at rents which amounted to 126l. 13s. 1d. per annum, but in nine years would produce 220l., which was warranted by Sir Henry Beaumont. [1 p.]
50. The like of Mr. Ward's lands in Carleton, co. Leicester, tenure socage, held of the manor of Theddingworth. Yearly value 360l. [¾ p.]
51. The like of the rents of the Castle of Starborough with the manors of Starborough alias Princkerne and Shernden in Surrey and Kent, with the names of the tenants; total of sums paid, 799l. 6s. 8d. Part holden of the manor of East Greenwich and part of Cobham. [1 p.]
52. The Churchwardens and Headborough of Lambeth to the Council. Having received an order from Dr. Featley for the removing certain families in the pest-house in Lambeth Field, had removed two of the four families inhabiting there, leaving only a poor ancient widow and a woman ready to be relieved of child, whom they left to keep the house from stealing. [2/3 p.]
53. Petition of the churchwarden, parishioners, and collector for money assessed towards the relief of people visited with the plague in that part of the parish of St. Sepulchre without Newgate situated in Middlesex, to the Council. That Sir Abraham Williams of Westminster having divers poor tenements in St. John Street, two have been shut up for the plague, and the parishioners have disbursed towards relief of those families that were in the same 10l. 17s. 3d., which sum has been assessed by the Justices of Peace that Sir Abraham should pay, neither can petitioners by ordinary course of justice recover the same against him. Pray them to send for Sir Abraham and order him to pay. [½ p.]
54. Petition of Anthony Percivall, captain of Archcliff Bulwark in Dover, to Lord Treasurer Juxon. Archliff Fort adjoining the pier is very conveniently seated for the King's service, and commands the town and all Dover Roads, yet by want of repair is almost unserviceable. The King imposed by letters patent a duty upon all strangers' goods, to be received by Dover towards repair of their pier. Prays for a Privy Seal, that the payment of the duty upon strangers' goods may be continued for reparation of Archcliff, which will amount to about 1,200l.; the collection to begin at Michaelmas, when the sum for repair of the pier will be fully received. [1 p.]
55. The like of divers inhabitants of Oxford to the Council. John Sayer of Oxford, alderman, by the consent of the mayor, bailiffs, and corporation, is erecting a building 14 yards in length, in breadth six yards, and 28 feet high, in the middle of a public street in the parish of St. Peter's in the Bailey. Pray the Lords to interdict his proceeding any further in the building, and to refer the matter to the Vice-Chancellor of the University. [Signed by seven petitioners. As to the nature of the building petitioned against, see Vol. cccxx., No. 58. 9th May 1636. 1 p.]
56. The like of Sir Henry Gibb to the King. His Majesty procured for petitioner from the late King an annuity of 200l. payable out of the Court of Wards, but which had been unpaid for some few years by past, in regard of a restraint for payment of pensions. Since his Majesty promised not to take anything from petitioner, he prays order for payment. [1 p.]
57. The like of the same to the same. To the same effect as the preceding. [2/3 p.]
58. The like of Francis Bluett, of Arwanack, Cornwall, and of Lady Jane his wife, to the Council. Sir John Killigrew, about 29 years last past, on his marriage with the said Jane, daughter of Sir George Farmor, conveyed as part of her jointure his manorhouse of Arwanack, whereof the Castle Hill, upon which the castle of Pendennis stands, is parcel, containing about 60 acres, and worth 35l. per annum. Notwithstanding the said conveyance, her former husband, Sir John, leased the Castle Hill for his Majesty's use at the rent of 12l. 10s. Since the death of Sir John in January last was twelve months no rent had been received. Pray payment of the same, and an order to the receiver of the revenues for Cornwall to pay the same for the future. [2/3 p.]
59. [George Rawdon ?] to Frances Lady Conway. Sends a letter from Lord Conway. The writer stays there this week upon a despatch into Ireland about Mr. Guilliams and Peirs. There is little news. The bill of the plague for the week is not yet come out, but it is hoped it has not increased. Ralph Rawdon, who writes weekly to "my Lord," will send her letters to sea or for the coachman. [Draft. 1 p.]
60. Petition of Margaret Slingsby, widow, to the Lord Keeper, Lord Treasurer, Lord Privy Seal, and Earl of Dorset. Petitioner, by their Lordships' command, sued the forfeiture of a bond of 100l. against Thomas Horth, and after three years suit and the expense of 500l. had obtained execution, which is stayed by their order, so that what his Majesty intended for her relief is like to prove her ruin. Prays that she may either make benefit of his Majesty's grant, or that they would recommend her to his Majesty to be relieved some other way. [½ p.]
61. Petition of the same to the same. To the same effect as the preceding. [½ p.]
62. The like of Robert Crosse, one of the Messengers of the Chamber, to the Council. Petitioner having fetched up five men from Chelmsford, was commanded to keep them at his house, which he did for seven weeks, after which they were committed to the new prison at Clerkenwell. The Lords gave order to the keeper there that they should not depart thence until they had satisfied petitioner. Understands that they are to be removed into the country, whither if they go, he is hopeless of getting a penny. Prays order for relief. [¾ p.]
63. List of medical and scientific books, with their prices and general remarks thereon by Sir Kenelm Digby. [Slightly imperfect. 1 p.]
64. Declaration of a method of raising money not hitherto practised in England. It is that his Majesty should order a little seal with which all parchments as well as all papers on which documents are written should be sealed. This custom has been practised by the Kings of France from 1542, and an account is given of the produce of the petit sceau in various districts in France. [French. 1⅓ p.]
65. Petition of William Crauford to the King. States certain statutory provisions regulating the sale, breeding, and killing of cattle, which laws are commonly and continually broken. Prays commission to inquire into such abuses and to compound with or legally to proceed against offenders. [2/3 p.]
66. Latin verses signed "Savill" and designed for an inscription upon the tomb of the late Earl of Carlisle. Memorandum endorsed in the handwriting of Sec. Windebank. "Herbert Higgens at the Star in New Fish Street." [2/3 p.]
67. Fragment of a copy of a grant to George Talbot, son of John Talbot, tenth Earl of Shrewsbury, giving him such precedency as he would have had if his father had been Earl of Shrewsbury at the time of his birth; with notes of similar grants of precedency made in the times of King James and King Charles. [Only half of the grant, the copy having been torn in half perpendicularly. 3 pp.]
68. Petition of James Naper, servant to Mr. Woolley, Keeper of the Council Records, to the Council. John Wynn, servant to Mr. Locke, deceased, then Keeper of the Records, had an allowance for making pens and attendance on the Board. Prays the Lords to require the Auditors of the Imprest to certify its amount, and that thereupon the Lords would give petitioner the like. [2/3 p.]
69. Two indexes, the latter incomplete, but both containing proper names alphabetically arranged, being chiefly those of persons well known in the reign of Charles I. It seems to have been made to a book of grants or warrants. It is endorsed in a hand of much later date "Lord Cottington's writings." The second index does not extend beyond the letter S. [36 pp., of which 12 are blank.]
70. Bills for repairs of a carriage, amounting to 20l. 7s. 4d. [1 p.]
71. Notes of grants made from the 4th to the 12th year of the present reign of debts and arrearages in the Courts of Wards or the Exchequer. The grantees were Sir George Manners, Thomas Bray, Lady Saltoun, the Earl of Rutland, the Countess of Denbigh, and Sir John Farewell. [½ p.]
72. Petition of Edmund Thurman, clerk, John Stacy, and Edmund Pakeman, to Archbishop Laud and the Council. The complainants [George Meade, Robert Heath, and others, see Vol. cccxxv, No. 4,] made a most unequal rate for the ship-money for Much Hallingbury, 16th December 1635, privately, among themselves, and fraudulently obtained Sir Cranmer Harris, then Sheriff, to confirm the same. On complaint to the now sheriff he confirmed another rate, made on public notice, bearing date the 29th February. On the 8th March, petitioner Stacy, being collector, paid in 20l. 0s. 6d., part of 25l. 0s. 6d. levied on the town, and promised that on the 18th March he would pay in the residue. Not being able to gather the same, he failed that day, but within a short time after paid it out of his own purse. After the 18th March, on a most false suggestion, the Sheriff confirmed a copy of the plaintiffs' first rate, but by some indirect means ante-dated the same as upon the 20th February, nine days before the date of petitioners' rate, which petitioners did not espy, whereupon the Lords took petitioners for liars, and were very much incensed at them, and ordered the Archbishop to hear the petitioners, in regard petitioner Thurman was a clergyman. Pray the Archbishop so to hear petitioners that innocency and truth may not suffer, and that if sufficient satisfaction cannot be presently given there may be a reference to examine the same fully, and that in the mean time petitioners, (two of whom have been eleven days in the messenger's hands), may have their liberty. [Probably presented the 3rd June 1636. 1 p.]
73. Note of complaints made by cos. Chester, Flint, and Northumberland, and by the towns of Shrewsbury, Haverfordwest, and the city of Canterbury, of being over assessed to the ship-money. [12/3 p.]
74. List of ministers to be joined with the Sheriffs for consideration of the complaints of the clergy respecting ship-money. The list relates to cos. Bedford, Hertford, and Buckingham, to which Sir John Lambe has added Leicester and Lincoln. [1½ p.]
75. Petition of the inhabitants and parishioners of Holmer and Hampton Bishop, co. Hereford, to the Council. Great part of the lands in the said parishes border on the city of Hereford, for which the owners have time out of mind been rated with the rest of the inhabitants. Great part of the lands is lately purchased by citizens of Hereford who deny to join with the rest of the parishioners in the payment of the last assessment for shipping. Upon petition to the Judges of Assize these citizens of Hereford were ordered to contribute, and an attachment was awarded against the refusers as appears by the papers annexed. These parishes being wholly within manors belonging to the Bishop of Hereford, and altogether freed from impositions within the city, petitioners pray they may have such aid in the payment from the said citizens as anciently they have had. [1 p.] Annexed,
75. i. Petition of the Churchwardens and Overseers of Holmer, co. Hereford, on behalf of themselves and the rest of the inhabitants, to Sir William Jones, one of the Justices of Assize. State the circumstances mentioned in the preceding petition and pray relief. [Copy. ½ p.] Underwritten,
75. i.i. Order of the Court of Assizes that the citizens of Hereford who had purchased lands as above stated should be equally taxed with the constant inhabitants of the said parish. 10th March 1634–5. [Copy. 6 lines.]
75. i. ii. Petition of the Churchwardens and Overseers of Holmer as above-mentioned, to Sir William Jones. Thomas Alderne, Charles Booth, and divers others that have lands within Holmer have refused to pay the taxations assessed upon them. Pray further order for relief. [Copy.=⅓ p.]
75. i. iii. Fiat of Sir William Jones that an attachment be granted against all them that refuse to pay according to the former order. 15 July 1635. [Copy. 5 lines.]
76. Algernon, Earl of Northumberland, to Sec. Windebank. His Majesty's command shall be obeyed. The Mary Rose shall be at Portsmouth ready to receive the Duke of Lorraine's minister. A less than she is not fit to send into those parts lest she should meet with some Turks who at this time of the year are very busy in those seas. [1 p.]
77. Book of Accounts relating to the Anne Royal, containing, 1. Valuation of her rigging and carpenter's stores. 2. The like of provisions delivered out for weighing her up. 3. The like of her rigging and stores returned to Chatham. The whole charge was 6,401l. 1s. 5d., the return 2,965l. 17s. 1d., so that there had been wasted by her loss 3,435l. 4s. 4d., and in victuals for 300 men for five months 1,487l. 10s., besides powder and munition and damage to the hull. [24 pp., of which 7 are blank.]
78. Account of charges to be deducted upon the Anne Royal, being not pertinent to the weighing of her, of which proceedings Sir Henry Palmer and Capt. Pett were eye-witnesses, who gave attendance night and day to further the business. These charges comprise the cost of the hire of vessels and of labour for taking out the ordnance, masts, and stores, and for carrying the ship up to Blackwall. [1½ p.]
79. Certificate of Bence Johnson that Thomas Methwold, purser of the Great Neptune for the late expedition, served from 1st March 1635–6 to 1st October following. [¼ p.]
80. Petition of Dame Elizabeth Darrell, widow and executrix of Sir Sampson Darrell, late surveyor of marine victuals, to Lord Treasurer Juxon. The late Commissioners of the Treasury, on view of her husband's accounts, and her demands thereupon examined by Sir Edward Wardour, Sir William Becher, and Mr. Nicholas, referred the consideration of some things therein to the Officers of the Navy, and appointed petitioner to pay to Sir William Russell 3,282l. 3s. 2½d., monies which her husband formerly received of him, and expressed their intention, that sum being paid, to take into consideration her demands. The Officers of the Navy have made their certificate, and the money has been paid to Sir William Russell. Petitioner has yet some of her husband's estate remaining in her hands, and is willing to pay the same in satisfaction of any further debt to his Majesty, but cannot do so until the Lord Treasurer determines what allowance shall be made her upon her demands. If not settled before next term she shall be obliged to pay the amount in her hands away to other creditors, under suits of law already commenced. Prays for a settlement accordingly. [1 p.]
81. Propositions for making Gunpowder, by Samuel Cordewell and George Collins, the contractors who succeeded John Evelyn as gunpowder-maker to his Majesty. A copy of this paper is already calendered under the date of 29th April, 1636 (Vol. cccxix. No. 69). The present copy is attested by Nicholas. [3¼ pp.]
82. John Miner to Thomas Thornhill, saltpetreman. Complains of William Hopkins of the Isle of Wight, soapboiler, and Thomas Baskett, recorder of Newport, for refusing to allow him to purchase potashes for the saltpetre works in that island, committing him to sergeants' ward, and keeping him in the same until he deposited 3l., when he was released upon an undertaking to return with a better authority. [This was probably dated in November 1636; see other papers relating to this transaction at pp. 217, 220. 1 p.]
83. Account of money paid to the Lieutenant of the Ordnance for emptions and powder for the 25 ships fitted out this year, with a separate account of the sums disbursed for emptions for the first fleet of 15 ships. [2 pp.]
84. Similar account of all ordnance, ammunition, and habiliments of war, delivered during the year 1636, out of the stores of the Office of Ordnance, for supplying the Triumph and 23 others of his Majesty's ships, with the remain and expense thereof, and the value of the said expense. Total value of the expense, 7,949l. 9s. 11¾d. [136 pp., of which 23 are blank.]
85. Allegations to be proved [in the Court of High Commission ?] respecting the drunkenness and scandalous misconduct of Mr. Harrison, tutor to Mr. Francis West's sons. Some of the transactions mentioned occurred at Barnes. [¾ p.]
86. Notes of various payments made to the Officers of the Ecclesiastical Court at Ipswich, probably materials used in the preparation of the articles preferred against Henry Dade, the commissary there, as to which, see Vol. cccii., No. 140. [4 pp.]
87. Collection of papers relating to a cause in the Court of Arches between Richard Newbery, parson of the parish of St. Katharine Creechurch, London, complainant, and John Brewer, Richard Glover, James Parker, James Smith, and others, defendants. The cause related to the proper mode of electing churchwardens and sidesmen in that parish; and the point in the same was, whether such election was in the vestry of the parish or in the parishioners at large. The papers here thrown together consist of the following separate articles:—
87. i. Copy of the libel in the said cause. [Latin. 5¾ pp.]
87. ii. Minutes of various proceedings in the above cause as to the admission of the libel and monition of witnesses. 13 June 1636. [Latin. 4 pp.]
87. iii. Answers of John Brewer, Richard Glover, William (sic) Smith, and George (sic) Parker, to the preceding libel. [3 pp.]
87. iv. Articles in the said cause exhibited on behalf of the defendant Brewer and others. 18th June 1636. [3 pp.]
87 v. Answers of John Bill to interrogatories exhibited in the above cause on the part of Newbery, the complainant. [9½ pp.]
88. Notes upon the title of Basil Lord Fielding to the manors of Newnham and Monks Kirby, co. Warwick, with other lands and tenements in the same county and in co. Leicester, with some words inserted by Solicitor-General Littleton. [3¾ pp.]
89. "Reasons to prove the draining of the Flete, near Weymouth, to be of dangerous consequence to the State." The Flete severed "the sandy beach or Chesill, as they term it," from the mainland, and the danger anticipated was principally the facility for landing which would thereby be given to an invading enemy. The reasons pro and con are stated at length, and from an annexed slip of paper it would seem that the case was solicited by Barnard Michell, one of the magistrates of Weymouth. [2 pp.]
90. Number of alehouse keepers in co. Lancaster, as divided into hundreds, and by whom they were licensed, anno 1636. [1½ p.]
91. Objection stated [by Henry Lambe] to a certificate returned to the Board with respect to the recovery of any damage which may be done by his barges to mills situate upon the stream from the Ouse to Bury St. Edmunds, which he was to make navigable. It was sought to be provided that if such damage, assessed upon oath by two witnesses, was not paid within 14 days, the patent should be forfeited, the locks be stopped, and the boats be debarred from passing for ever. Lambe suggests that it would be sufficient to stay the boats until satisfaction were made. [½ p.]
92. Petition of Henry Lambe, servant to the Queen, to the King. A fourth commission issued out of the Court of Chancery, authorizing divers gentlemen of Suffolk and Norfolk, for viewing and making navigable a river from Bury St. Edmunds to the Ouse, having been executed, is ready to be presented to the Board. Nothing being alleged against the work in general, but some scruples raised to discourage undertakers, and especially petitioner, who has been put to the expense of 2,000l. for defending so good a work. Prays the King to be present at the Board, which shall put a period to the business. [¾ p.]
93. Justices of the Peace for co. Hertford to the Council. Having been importuned by two grand juries, and by the judges at the last assizes, and otherwise, they offer a statement of the inconveniences and damages which are discovered to arise in that county from the restraints of malt-making, and chiefly in the towns of Stortford, Hitchin, Baldock, Ashwell, Royston, and other of the champaign parts of the county. The most maltsters in that county are of mean ability, and are chiefly employed by gentlemen and others, who send their barleys to them to be malted for the provision of their houses; also widows, the portions of orphans, servants who have some small stock, and others who like not to put their money to usury, buy barley and hire the malting of it by the quarter. These poor maltsters are very useful to the county, pay good rents, and have borne all taxes. So in the villages, many petty maltsters make malt for themselves and supply the markets; they bear offices and pay taxes, but being restrained, must turn day-labourers, of whom many already want work. So again, malt making continued little more than half a year; many mechanics and men of small trades employed their wives, children, and servants in malt-making, whilst themselves followed other callings. The disastrous consequences of a change in such a state of things is strongly urged and exemplified in a great variety of ways, especially as regarded its effect upon the county and the King's service, all which is humbly submitted to the consideration of the Council. [1½ p.]
94. Minutes of petitions of Capt. Pennington, that he had received no penny by the Privy Seal for 1,000l., or the grant of the reversion of Hansloe [Hanslope] Park, given to him for good service, and prays a further grant of Hanslope Park and Manor; also of the yoeman and three grooms of the robes, and the two gentlemen of the cellar and buttery, praying that they may have the like grant of fees on creation of peers, bishops, and knights, as was lately given to the pages of the bedchamber; also of William Barker, Examiner of the Court of Chancery in Ireland, praying an examination of the reasons inducing the new grant whereby he has been deprived of the moiety of his said office; also of George Detton, uncle to Mary and Anne Detton, co-heirs and wards, praying the King for a reference to settle an order for redress of wrongs done to the said wards by Sir George Wrottesley, surviving grantee of their wardship since the death of George Detton, their grandfather; and also of Abraham Vanderdort, praying that he may have one patent for his life of his several offices of Keeper of his Majesty's Cabinet Room at St. James's, and provider of patterns and stamps for coining gold and silver. [1 p.]
95. Petition of Mary Burrell, widow, and the five sons of William Burrell, deceased, the sister and nephews of Lancelot, late Bishop of Winchester, to the King. Petitioner's husband, who was a faithful servant in the Commission for the Navy, disbursed the greatest part of his estate in building engines and wharfs for cleansing the Thames, which cost him 2,862l., of which sum he paid 740l. unto divers servants of the late King for two patents to enable him to perform that work. Thomas Smith has, of late, plotted to raise a tax of 2d. to be paid by the city for every ton of ballast taken out of the Thames, and 2d. a ton to be paid by the coal ships, it being only to enable him to pay the King a rent of 1,000 marks, and wrest petitioners' estates from them. Pray that petitioners' rights may be protected, or that if such a rent is to be paid, it may be divided between petitioners and the said Smith, and that petitioners may receive the payment of 2d. a ton from the city and the coal ships for such proportion of ballast as they shall take out of the river. [¾ p.]
96. Hubert le Sueur to the King. Prays him to order payment of 100l. for a Mercury for her Majesty's fountain; also for his Majesty's portrait with the imperial crown wholly gilt, what he shall please. [The King or some one else has written in the margin, £30;] also for three patterns,—two of Venus, one of Bacchus, all of wax, 9l. [Subscribed by his "Majesty's most humble, obedient, and unworthy Praxiteles, Le Sueur." 1 p.]
97. Bill of Hubert le Sueur for various works of sculpture delivered to the King. They comprise 18 heads, whereof 15 are of philosophers and three of "the like bigness," charged at 30l. a piece, but reduced by the King to 24l., two great busts at 50l. a piece, but reduced to 40l.; a great Diana, 200l. and not reduced; an image pulling out a thorn, 60l., reduced to 50l.; his Majesty's image, with the crown and order well gilt, 60l., which is struck out, the King having written against the item, "This I will not haue." For reforming a brass head and making for it a foot of black marble, and also for renewing all the moulds and make the same of plaster, 10l., reduced to 6l.— Total 720l. [Signed: "Praxiteles; le Sueur." 1 p.]
98. Estimate of the new building of the Tower that is now fallen down at the west end of the cathedral church of Chichester, 1636; total 3,404l. 3s. The estimate included not only the rebuilding of the tower which had fallen, but repairs of that part of the north side of the church which was called the Subdeanery, a general repair of the roofs, with the lead on the roofs, which latter was much decayed, and had been the ruin of all the rest; also the removal of the bells from the steeple where they very unnecessarily hung, "to the great hurt of the steeple," into the new western tower intended to be erected. [2 pp.]
99. Minute of an application of William Wyn, who had a grant of the office of prothonotary in North Wales in reversion, that he might renew his grant with the addition of two other lives. [½ p.]
100. Sir Robert Sharpeigh to Mr. Hanby. Has given William Shepard 20s. towards his journey to Bristol and other places. What money Hanby shall disburse in prosecution of this business he shall have allowed out of the moneys from Gomeldon. [½ p.]
101. Minute of a licence to Dr. Tucker, the vicar of [Old] Windsor to read divine service, not being in deacons' orders nor 20 years of age. He was son of the former incumbent. [In handwriting of Archbishop Laud. 4 lines.]
102–103. See "Papers relating to Appointments in the Navy."
104–110. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace."