|
| Feb. 1. |
1. Return made to the King's writ by the Lord Mayor, Sir
Richard Gurney, and the Sheriffs, Sir George Garrett and Sir George
Clerke. Certify that in accordance with the ancient constitution of
the government of the City of London, as here specified, John
Langham, a freeman of the City, having been elected, on the 16 Jan.
last, Alderman of Portsoken Ward, was tendered 1st Feb 1641–2,
the customary oath, here recited, before the Lord Mayor and Aldermen, which he refusing to take, was committed to Newgate accordingly, and that this is the cause of his detention. [Latin, except
the oath in English. Draft. 11 pp.] |
Feb. 3,
Whitehall. |
2. Sidney Bere to Sir John Pennington. Since your departure
there have been many petitions more brought to the Houses of Parliament from several counties, of the same nature those were when
you were here, upon occasion of which the Houses had many conferences, all tending to have those of the malignant party, as they
are termed, known and removed from the Lords' House; which point
is still pressed on so far, that it is thought very shortly some
declaration may appear. Yesterday most of the Lords that have
relation to the Court repaired thither upon the King's special command, whence it is now expected what that meeting will produce.
There has been some motion made against the Duke of Richmond,
Mr. Murray, and Mr. Porter, and a vote has passed against them as
unfit to be about his Majesty. Against my Lord Duke were three
articles drawn, but I hear he has acquitted himself well thereof. |
|
The Bishops' day is put off until to-morrow, when the Houses
meet again, being in the interim at Grocers' Hall in London, adjourned since yesterday. Of the King's return is no news as yet,
but things rather exasperated more, so far as I can perceive. We
hear now from France for certain, that the Irish in service there are
disbanded and let go for to take their own course, which gives here
great jealousies, it being well known that State stands too much in
need of men for to cashier any. My Lord Admiral, speaking on
occasion of a vote carried against those of that party by the other
of the sincerity of his intentions, and that he was without interest
in all his proceedings, which he said he doubted whether many there
could say, was cried down to the bar; but Essex and others standing
resolutely in his defence, the others let it fall, otherwise it is thought
it might have caused a very great distraction if not rupture in the
House. The defeat of Lamboy I am sure you will have heard of;
and more than that I have not at present to acquaint you with, but
against the next ordinary I will be more particular. [Two seals
with arms and crest. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 3,
Middle Temple. |
3. Richard Fitche to Sir John Penington. Since your going from
London the Parliament goes on in the same way, and has sent down
the Protestation to be taken by all persons within the kingdom,
from the age of 18 to 80, and to return as well the age [names ?] of
those that shall take it as of those that refuse it, both Houses having
done the same already. Sir Edward Deering was last night voted
out of the Commons' House, and this day at 2 o'clock went to the
Tower, his book [of speeches] being adjudged to be burnt by the hangman in three several places; himself never to be a Parliament man
again in any future [this ?] Parliament, unless so voted by the Commons. But the most ridiculous thing that ever Sir Edward committed
was his manner of going to the Tower this day, who, when he might
have gone in his coach, went up and down the streets and the
Exchange in London, with hundreds of boys and girls at his heels, to
see him, crying out, "Which is Sir Edward Deering ?" What the
House have done this day I know not, only they sat about Bishops.
Here is news to-day that the King having news that 1,000 citizens
were coming to him with a petition to Windsor, sent a warrant to
the Sheriff to raise the posse comitatus, the whole power and arms of
the county, but there was not any came to him; whereupon he sent
for some 14 Lords to come to him, and they are gone. I have sent
you the last speech of Mr. Pym to the Peers' House, wherein is all
the grievances of our kingdom most plainly set forth, and another
scurrilous pamphlet which this day came forth, to make you a little
merry withal. I both have and do proceed in your suit against
Sir Frederick Cornwallis, &c. Blessing God for your honourable and
fair coming off with the Parliament, I rest. [Seal with arms. 1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 3. |
4. Captain Robert Fox to the [same]. You were no sooner gone
from London but the Lords brought the Duke of Richmond upon
his knees in the House for words spoken that afternoon; the various
report whereof is so divers that none can justly tell how to interpret them. Some say they were spoken seriously, some slightingly,
some by way of wish, others as premeditated counsel. However,
the Earl of Northumberland's counsel proved authentic, that whosoever should speak of proroguing the Parliament in these difficult
and dangerous times was an enemy to the State; which words the
Duke had then spoken. He is hereupon voted by the Lower House
to be incapable of bearing any office in Court and Commonwealth;
and though Lord Saye has very eloquently spoken for him in the
Upper House, I believe his rhetoric will not prevail, but they will
have all the forts and places of strength in his command from him.
Wm. Murray, [Wm.] Crofts, Tom Elliott, and almost all his Majesty's
servants are declared to be enemies of the State, and not to be permitted to come near his Majesty; nay, they have shaved him so close
that poor Tom Davies must not trim him. In these extremities the
Scots must have Knocfergus [Carrickfergus], and the other towns
demanded, delivered them for cautionary towns; and so they go
forward with the business of Ireland; 10,000 [men] from hence
will instantly be sent away when the King shall make a full answer
to the petitions of London and other places; the copies whereof are
herein inclosed, with the King's answer thereto. The ships are
now accorded for between the Committee and the owners at
3l. 6s. 8d. per cwt. a month, and are to be ready within a month;
and although they refuse to treat with the officers of the Navy
about their charter-party, yet is the Lord Admiral to examine all
the articles, and to approve or dislike them, and then they shall
either be allowed or refused. But, howsoever, my Lord [Admiral] is
to put in the officers. As these go through with their business
more will follow; and no marvel—the river being full of ships, and
no trade to employ them—they intrude themselves into the service
of the King and State, when otherwise they must lie still. |
|
You may perceive by the inclosed what doings we have when
the rude multitude shall dare to say more in a petition than armed
men in a battle, and that the porters and women in this town are
grown so impudent as that they have attempted the persons of the
Lord Keeper, the Duke of Lennox, and divers others of the nobility,
two nights since, as they came from the Parliament. Nay, the poor
Cross in Cheapside is so sick, as it is nightly watched withal by the
trained bands of this City. [Endorsed by Pennington: "From
Capt. Fox." 2 pp.] |
Feb. 3,
London. |
5. Captain Richard Slyngesbie to the same. The Lords have
now joined with the Commons in their petition to the King,
and a Committee of both Houses gone down with it to Windsor.
Sir Edward Deering, for a book of his lately printed, is put out of
the House, and committed to the Tower; his book to be burnt by
the hangman. We are in great fears here, besides our domestic
ones, of the French and Danes. It is reported the French have
stayed all English ships and goods in that kingdom. I know not
what spirit of contradiction it is that has now published in print
again Lord Digby's speech, which was formerly burnt, just after
this of Sir Edward Deering was sentenced. P.S.—The Parliament
adjourned till Friday; a Committee to sit in London. [Seal with
crest and motto. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 3,
London. |
6. Lawrence Squibb to Sec. Nicholas. I beseech you to move his
Majesty in this business of the Pepper, which so deeply concerns
Lord Cottington that, for aught I yet see, may prove to be most
dangerous if not eminent ruin to his Lordship and his estate. I
have been given to understand that the East India Company intend
not only to prosecute their bonds with all the rigour and extremity
that the law will allow, but will also petition the Parliament against
my Lord for his manner of proceeding in obtaining the Pepper, and
how prejudicial this has been to the whole Company and to the very
trade itself; wherein, to my knowledge, having been in most part
of the proceedings an eye-witness, his Lordship took a most just
and honourable course. Yet when this shall be preferred by a
multitude, the matter aggravated or wrested, and, perhaps, not
wanting back friends enough that shall affirm for his Lordship's
disadvantage, I conceive my Lord must not expect any favour in
this business coming there. And I have heard from one of the
farmers that they, and also Mr. Maxwell, do intend to join with the
India Company in petitioning against my Lord, and will allege that
it was his work to draw them into it. All I can here learn that is
to be done for relief herein is only that his Majesty will be pleased
to send for the Governor and some principal [men] of the India
Company, and to let them know his good intentions for the satisfying of the debt, with the interest, either by way of defalcation
of their own customs, when the Bill of tunnage shall be settled, or
by some other more speedy way, out of some other parts of his
revenue as soon as it shall be established. P.S.—Whatever you
may please to do herein, I conceive Mr. Comptroller will assist you
in it, being engaged for the debt with my Lord [Cottington] and
the farmers [of the Customs]. [Draft. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 4,
Court at Windsor. |
7. Sec. Nicholas to Sir Thomas Rowe. The King approves of
your proceedings, and will give you further directions by the next
ordinary. I am sorry to observe that the motions here and in
Ireland are an impediment to your good proceedings. But his
Majesty's forces in that kingdom, having relieved Tredagh [Drogheda]
in despite of the rebels, defeated many of them in several parts.
Besides the supplies lately gone over with Sir Simon Harcourt
there are now ready to pass over from hence 1,200 English more
and 2,500 Scots; also six of the King's ships are sent away with
corn and ammunition, after which they are to guard those seas
from all foreign assistance [coming to the rebels]. This, we are
confident, will shortly put a period to that insurrection, and so his
Majesty become at liberty to look abroad and give better
countenance to his ministers. I beseech you, dispense with my
present brevity, and using of another's hand, to which I am forced,
being here alone and almost overlaid with business multiplying
with our home disorders. [1⅓ pp.] |
Feb. 4,
London. |
8. Henry Earl of Bath to Sec. Nicholas. I must become a suitor
that you will move his Majesty to grant me his license for my
absence from Parliament, being utterly unable to do him service
there by reason of the violation of the fundamental privilege of
Parliament, which is the free debating and voting with safety and
indemnity, without which no man is capable to sit in any Parliament. But wheresoever I may do his Majesty service I shall spend
my life and estate therein with all fidelity. [Seal with arms and
coronet. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 7/17,
The Hague. |
9. Elizabeth Queen of Bohemia to Sir Thomas Rowe. Yours of
the 11th Jan. assure me that I am not deceived in my opinion
of the treaty. Sir William Boswell has showed me all as you
desired, and in honour you cannot stay, neither can I think the
King, my brother, will [do] other[wise] than revoke you. Though
he is but in an ill state to revenge their scorns, yet, in my opinion,
you cannot with his honour stay there; and the longer you stay it
will encourage them the more to abuse us, for they will imagine it
is because my brother cannot revenge himself by reason of his own
broils. I am sure you have heard how ill all goes in England. I
have had no letters from thence this last week, which makes me
think the ports are shut, and fear no good reason for it. What
I have written to my brother concerning you is but just and
reasonable, and for his service as well as your honour, whose merit
is so well known, as what I wish you can breed no envy in reasonable men, and much less scorn. As yet there is none named for it,
but Lord Falkland is Secretary of State. How fit he be for that
post you can better tell than I, who only have seen him, neither
do I know of his knowledge of foreign affairs. The Queen [of
England] does all, and then the King retired to Windsor. The
Prince Elector [urged] him to a reconcilement with the Parliament,
but the Queen would not hear of it, under pretence that the
Parliament would ask of him dishonourable conditions. Prince
Rupert is gone to Helvoet-Sluys, to embark himself for England,
but the storms have been so great as he could neither do that nor
return. I hope, now the storm is ceased, that the wind will be fair.
I have no more to say, but that I hope you will return this way.
[Two black seals with arms and crowns. Partly in cipher. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
10. Nathaniel Tomkyns to [Sir John Lambe]. This contains a
grant to John Thorpe of the office of Keeper of her Majesty's Court
of Chancery or Council Chamber at Westminster, with the annual
fee of 3l. 6s. 8d., together with the fee of 18s. for his livery; and also
of Keeper of her Council Chamber at Denmark House, with the
annual fee of 2l. 13s. 4d., and in addition 2s. per diem for his better
encouragement in the due performance of the said offices during
her Majesty's pleasure. [Endorsed by Lambe: "Sealed 7 Feb.
1641–2. Mr. John Thorpe's patent of Keeper of the Council
Chamber, &c." ½ p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
11. Notes by Sir John Lambe of nine or ten parcels of land in
the Queen's manor of Epworth, co. Lincoln; three of them out of
Mr. Coignett's particular; the rest, by information, new land; seven
of them in Mr. Hakewell's petition. [1 p.] |
Feb. 8,
Tower. |
12. Sir John Byron to [Sir Edward Nicholas]. I have for many
days attended both Houses upon their summons to answer such
things as should be laid to my charge, but as yet have not been
urged with any particular, saving that of the Sheriffs of London,
concerning guards to be set about the Tower, which upon due
examination was found no fault. The reason of this daily attendance enjoined me, as my friends tell me, was that in case his
Majesty should not send a satisfactory answer to their petition
they would immediately commit me. But this day his Majesty's
answer came, and was noted by the House of Commons to be a
full granting of their desires expressed in their petition; whereupon
there was a conference betwixt both Houses, at which I was present.
Mr. Pierpoint spoke, and after a preamble of the bloody and
dangerous practices of the Papists against the Parliament, and
especially the House of Commons, declared the necessity of putting
the militia of the kingdom into a posture of defence, and the forts
into such hands as might be confided in. As for the extent of
this power, and the continuance of it, the House of Commons
thought fit, and desired the Lords to concur with them in it, that
both the one and the other should be left to the Parliament, so
that his Majesty hereafter will have little to dispose of. The conclusion of Mr. Pierpoint's speech was that the Lords would concur
with the House of Commons in a request to his Majesty to make
Sir John Conyers Lieutenant of the Tower, without either mentioning my name, or giving any reason why I should be removed;
which I must needs acknowledge as a singular favour from the
Commons, who certainly, after so severe and strict an inquisition,
have found many faults in me to make me incapable of this command, though they are pleased not to divulge them. But I am
confident the greatest fault they find in me, if not the only, is that
his Majesty placed me here, and that they think I am faithful to
his Majesty. The Lords, after four denials formerly to the same
request, have now at last—the malignant party, as they term it,
being now very weak in the House—consented to join with them
in this their petition to his Majesty; and in case his Majesty shall
think fit to grant it, though I hope never with that unlimited
power they desire, my most humble suit is, I may resign this place
into his Majesty's hands, whence I received it, and not stay to be
thrust out by them; and this I humbly desire you would acquaint
his Majesty withal. And whereas his Majesty authorized me to
retain the 40 new warders, which would have yielded me above
3,000l. present benefit, yet I have forborne to advantage myself
that way, considering how unfit it would be to put his Majesty to
1,000l. yearly charge in case the Tower should be disposed of by
the Parliament; and therefore I desire I may have a warrant from
his Majesty to cashier these new warders before I go, lest this charge
be pinned upon him; for, being not able, during this short time of
my being here, to do his Majesty any acceptable service, I would be
loth to put him to an unnecessary charge. [Endorsed by Nicholas:
"Sir John Byron desires to surrender his place of Lieutenant of the
Tower." 2 pp.] |
| Feb. 8. |
13. A collection of the divers votes of the House of Commons
about Customs, from 22 May 1641 to 8 Feb. 1641–2. The substance
of the votes affirmed was as follows:—That since to levy any tax
without consent of Parliament is illegal: that all such persons as
have been agents in the collecting of such taxes are delinquents:
that in consideration of the offer of the farmers of the customs to
pay a fine, an Act of oblivion shall be passed in their favour, the
farmers to present the names of all such as they desire shall be
contributory to the fine of 150,000l.: that the Committee for the
customers have power to accept a composition of a fifth part or
more, but all such as do not make their composition before 1st Feb.
shall have no advantage of the favour of the House, but pay in full:
that those persons that have received any money from the customers
by way of composition for injuries done to them by the said
customers, and of which they have formerly complained to this
House, shall acquaint this House what sums of money or other satisfaction for composition they have received by this day sevennight.
[These votes are printed in the Commons' Journals under their
several dates. 5 pp.] |
Feb. 8,
York House. |
14. Thomas Smith to [Sir John Pennington.] By the enclosed
you will perceive the countenance of our affairs; only I must add
that on Saturday last the Bishops were voted quite out of Parliament, never more to have voices there. God be thanked; but the
King has not yet given his royal assent, yet that is not doubted.
Many of the Popish and Malignant party, as they call them, begin
now to leave the Houses, and retire to their houses in the country
out of a panic fear of the multitude, who from all the counties come
daily in thousands with petitions to the Houses. And if they be
afeard of our humble petitions, how must we be afraid of their
malicious and pernicious counsels. When this rubbish is removed
the building will go on bravely, and then the King and his people
will come to a right understanding one of the other, and so firmly
united in mutual affection that the head shall love and cherish the
members, [and] they give due honour and obedience to their head;
and we may see happy days, and all things rectified both in Church
and State. Sir Edward Deering is committed to the Tower, and his
books to be burnt. I thank you for yours of the 3rd present. The
warrant for pressing [men] I herewith send you, and an Act last
come forth amended, though not so well as I could wish. For the
Privy Seal to have your money paid in the Navy, I will procure it
speedily. In the King's letter to my Lord [Admiral] for ships to
transport the Queen, we are required to provide three ships royal
and eight more, and that suddenly, but my Lord has sent back to
Court about it. [2¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 8–10. |
15. Petition of the knights, gentlemen, and freeholders of co.
Northampton to the Commons' House of Parliament. Petitioners
approving of the doings of the Parliament and of the publication of
the late Remonstrance were encouraged to expect a perfect reformation in religion, and happy settling of the affairs of the commonwealth; but now, to their great grief, do find your good endeavours
therein much interrupted and almost frustrated by the Malignant
party, &c. Pray that you will be a means to his Majesty and the
House of Peers that the votes of Popish Lords and Bishops in
that House may be taken away, evil counsellors removed, Papists
disarmed, and the persons of the principal of them secured. Subscribed at the Swan in Northampton, Jan. 21, with 18 names,
but not presented till the 10th Feb. [Pamphlet, printed at
London for F. Couls and T. Banks, 1642. 3 pp.] |
| Feb. 8–10. |
Petition of the knights, gentlemen, ministers, freeholders, and
inhabitants of Kent to the House of Peers. Petitioners do with joy
and humble thankfulness acknowledge the good correspondence and
concurrence which your House has had with the worthy House of
Commons in passing the Bill to take away the votes of the Prelates,
and disabling them from temporal employments, and for setting the
kingdom into a posture of war for its defence. Petitioners will
ever honour, and to their utmost power defend, your Honourable
House, so far as you continue to hold correspondence and concurrence
with the Commons in all their just desires and endeavours. Pray
that your Lordships will go on with the Commons to a thorough
reformation, especially of the Church, to press dispatch for relief of
Ireland, to expedite proceedings against delinquents, &c. [Printed
in the same pamphlet as the preceding. pp. 6 and 7.] |
| Feb. 8–10. |
Petition of the same to the Commons' House. To the same effect
as the preceding petitions. [Ibid. pp. 7 and 8.] |
| Feb. 9. |
Deputation of Henry Earl of Holland, Chief Justice of his
Majesty's forests on this side Trent, granting to his son-in-law,
Wm. Lord Pagett, the keeping of New Lodge Walk in Windsor forest,
co. Berks, vice Sir Charles Harbord, with all fees and profits thereto
belonging, to be held under me during pleasure. [Vol. ccclxxxiv.,
p. 119. Copy = 1¼ p.] |
Feb. 9,
Windsor. |
16. Warrant of the King; authorizing William Lord Craven of
Hampstead Marshall, to accompany the Queen into Holland. And
the officers at the ports are hereby required to suffer Lord Craven,
with his servants and luggage, to pass. [Copy in Nicholas's hand.
2/3 p.] |
Feb. 9,
Office of the Ordnance. |
17. An estimate of the charge of powder, shot, match, muskets,
and other munition and habiliments of war for the furnishing of 15
of his Majesty's ships for eight months at sea. Totals: out of the
stores, 2,843l. 2s. 10d.; powder, 8,095l.; emptions, 3,385l. 1s. 8d.;
in all 14,323l. 4s. 6d. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 10,
Office of the Ordnance. |
18. Memorial of the Officers of Ordnance to the Lords and other
the Committees for "muniting" of this kingdom, and for the affairs
of Ireland. The Parliament, by instituting the first of those Committees some months since, manifested their provident care for
securing the kingdom against all hostile attempts. The first
foundation of "muniting" the kingdom principally depends upon
the judicious state, competent endowment, and continual support
of a necessary magazine. The Officers of Ordnance, under whose
charge the grand magazine of all provisions for sea and land service
has remained for ages, out of a zealous and true sense of their duties,
and in pursuance of a former remonstrance by them exhibited to
that Committee, hold themselves bound and humbly crave leave to
present to the consideration of that Grand Council the state of the
magazine and office of the Ordnance. First, as it is the only standing
and grand magazine for the munitions of war, it must have both a
primary and secondary influence on the navy, forts, castles, and
armies of this kingdom. Secondly, in its proper end and use, when
it moves with a marching train of artillery or fleet, it has a continual influence on the respective members of the standing camp,
marching army, and ships at sea, throughout their operations as
here specified, and in the supplying of ammunition for renewing of
all fights, and for timely supply after the fight. In all which, and
many other respects, the necessity of the times and their peculiar
duties, calling upon them, they have presumed to exhibit a short
view of the most important defects of that magazine and office
under the general heads here particularised, and then more fully
analyzed. |
|
1. The defect for the complete "mounture" of the Navy with
brass ordnance is 400 pieces; and the Parliament in 1624 provided
500 iron ordnance with their carriages and other equipage for the
mounture of 50 colliers to attend his Majesty's fleet, which since
have otherwise been disposed of, so that now none are remaining
in the magazine for that service. But what time the casting of
those 900 pieces would take, the founders will be best able to
inform. |
|
2. The proportion of powder for continual supply of the magazine
has formerly been 20 lasts per month. But the saltpetre-works being
suppressed, no powder has been delivered into the magazine these
13 months; and when all the proportions already ordered by sea
and land shall be issued, there will remain but 4 lasts 9 cwts. of
powder. |
|
3. The present store of match is now but 40 tons, which ought
to be equal at the least, if not double, to the yearly proportion of
the powder; which, if but 221 tons according to the Parliament
proportion, 1626, with the help of foreign supply, cannot be provided under six months at the least. |
|
4. Before the 8,016 muskets (issued and to be issued for Ireland)
can be again supplied with rests and bandoleers, six months time
will be necessarily employed. The pistols, carbines, dragoons, long
pikes, swords, halberds, partisans, drums, saddles, &c. likewise issued
and to be further issued for the Irish supply, will require four
months to replace. Endorsed: A copy of the remonstrance to be
exhibited to the Parliament, 12 Feb. 1641. [3 pp.] |
Feb. 10,
Whitehall. |
19. Sidney Bere to [Sir John Pennington]. The Queen continuing in the resolution to accompany the Princess Mary into
Holland, the King was pleased to give notice thereof to the Parliament by a message which you will find in the book here inclosed;
whereupon, in consequence of that design, their Majesties posted
yesterday from Windsor to Hampton Court, and thence come this
night to Greenwich, and so to continue on to the seaside. The
opinions concerning this journey are divers, whether it should hold
or not, but in Court nothing is more credible; and the Parliament
has not yet showed any intention to hinder or dissuade from the
same, though it is conceived it cannot but much trench on the
honour and greatness of this Crown to let them pass with so small
attendance and pomp, as now they needs must, upon so short
warning and in so distracted a season. Mr. Secretary Nicholas
came last night to town, and is now going to meet their Majesties
at Court at Greenwich. I do not hear that he is anywise questioned
by the Parliament, but his colleague is spoken of, whom it is thought
they will sequester from the House for having framed and printed
divers things without the knowledge or consent of them. Sir
Edward Deering remains still imprisoned; nor do the Kentish [men]
appear in his defence, as it was noised they would, but rather
inclined to except against him and Sir John Culpepper also. You
will see by the Diurnal Occurrences, and the several petitions and
answers, what is further in agitation here; and that his Majesty is
pleased to let go the prosecution of the persons accused, which
would prove a good step to an accommodation, did not the voting
the Bishops out of the Upper House raise a new difficulty, to which
it is thought his Majesty will hardly be moved to give the royal
assent. The House of Commons did lately vote for Sir John Conyers
to be made Lieutenant of the Tower, and even now I understand
that his Majesty has accepted of the resignation of Sir John Byron,
and appointed Captain Conisby to execute the place per interim
until further order, so that it is likely Conyers will have the same.
I do not hear of any further motions against my Lord Duke [of
Richmond], Mr. Murray, and Mr. Porter, nor against any others of
Court; but it is conceived they are not let fall through altogether,
but only laid aside till a fitter occasion or more leisure. And this
is all I can say for the present, out of which you may gather in
what posture and condition things stand, which, though bad enough,
it is feared may yet be worse, unless some happy agreement appear
suddenly, for that here are millions of poor people reduced to the
extremity of want by the decay of trade. P.S.—The Earl of Dorset
is nominated to wait on the Queen, but he having desired some
time to make himself ready is to follow after, and Lord Goring to
go for the present. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 10,
London. |
20. Captain Richard Slyngesbie to Sir John Pennington. We
have now some hopes of quietness for a time, the King having
condescended to the Parliamentary Petition concerning the militia,
and deserted his accusation of six members of the House. The
Queen is preparing for her journey to Holland, together with the
Princess [Mary] her daughter. There is yet no warrant for preparation of the summer fleet; it stays only for the King's hand.
The Cavaliers that have attended the Court ever since the King
went out of town are now all dismissed, which has rid the town of
those fears which till then were apprehended of taking arms.
[Seal with crest and motto. ¾ p.] |
Feb. 11,
London. |
21. Thomas Wiseman to Sir John Pennington. You may be pleased
to look into the printed papers which I send you herewith, wherein
is contained a breviate of the whole proceedings here. Though it has
cost a large discourse on all hands to work it up, and not without some
reluctation on the King's part, by whom, it is conceived, many things
are consented to, more to satisfy the Parliament than himself. I cannot yet out of my own judgement advise you any hope we have of
a sudden settlement of these distractions; but the Houses of Parliament grow every day thinner and thinner, many able members of
both being retired into their countries. The Queen and the Lady
Mary set forward to-morrow at night on their voyage to Holland.
They lie at Greenwich, and on Monday will be either at Margate
or Dover to take shipping: and I doubt not but that you have
already received direction to expect them aboard you. It seems
the States' Ambassadors have been earnest with the King to have
Lady Mary there; and the Queen, in these distempered times not
taking any great comfort, goes to accompany her. Sir Edward
Deering, one of the knights of the shire for Kent, is committed to
the Tower for printing of some of his speeches made in Parliament
offensive to the House, and therefore, they being bound up all in
one book, it is commanded to be burnt. [Seal with arms and crest.
2 pp.] |
Feb. 11,
York House. |
22. Thomas Smith to [Sir John Pennington]. I have acquainted
my Lord Admiral with the contents of yours of the 10th, and he
is sorry that the convoys must of necessity be neglected till the
Queen be gone over, or that some other vessel be come down to you;
whereof we make all the haste we can, and have sent an express
packet with a gallows on it to Captain Owen to bring away the
Entrance and the Providence to be in the Downs by Monday, if
possible, that being the day her Majesty intends to take shipping
at Deal; though I think she cannot be ready so soon, except she
will go without her horses and coaches, for which here is not yet
one ship taken up, nor money provided. Nevertheless she makes
haste towards you, and lay last night at Greenwich. This night
she intends [to halt] at Rochester, next at Canterbury, and on
Monday to be with you. We have no other directions, and therefore can give you none, only that Mr. Wood says they will take
care to provide diet for her Majesty and train on shipboard.
Things are done in such post-haste that I never heard of the like
for the voyage of persons of so great dignity. I was long ago
commanded to write to you, in the name of my Lord [the Earl of
Northumberland] and the Earl of Essex, for a tun of wine, my
Lord of Essex approving very much of your judgment in the choice
of wines, and I had order to reimburse the money to you. I either
forgot it or omitted it, for the wine is not come, and both their
Lordships are very inquisitive for it. P.S.—Captain Stradling
went out of the Hope three days ago, and I doubt not but he is
with you ere this. My Lord [Admiral] yesterday checked the
Victualer for not having all the victuals in the Downs belonging
to the winter guard, and has given him express command that he
send them away with such diligence as to have the victuals of the
Greyhound and Tenth Whelp with them before Monday, or else
he should hear of it. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 11,
Greenwich. |
23. Warrant of Sec. Nicholas to all Mayors, Sheriffs, &c. Whereas
Robert Padon is to make his speedy repair to Dover for his
Majesty's special service: these are to require you to furnish him
with two able post-horses, together with sufficient guides to Dover
and back again, he paying the usual rates for the same. [Impressed
seal with arms and crest. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 12. |
24. The act of Common Council of London appointing Serjeant
Major-General Skippon, according to the desire of the House of
Commons, to be added to those formerly named to have command of
the militia of London, and this to be returned to the House by
Captain Hen. [Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 13,
Our Court at Canterbury. |
25. Warrant of the King to Sir John Pennington. To take up
sufficient vessels for the transporting into Holland provisions and
baggage, besides horses and coaches, for the use of the Queen and
Princess Mary, their servants and followers. You are to agree with
these vessels at the best rates according to the course of our Navy.
[½ p.] |
Feb. 13,
Warwick House. |
26. Warrant to George Hayward of Woodbridge, Suffolk, to
apprehend Josias Napleton, living in the Isle of Sheppey, for contempt in refusing to obey a warrant of the Court of Admiralty.
[Draft. 1 p.] |
Feb. 13,
York House. |
27. The Earl of Northumberland to [Sir John Pennington].
Though I have no other directions concerning the Queen's transportation than what I have already given you, yet, seeing the three
ships royal are declined, 'tis not to be doubted but that her
Majesty will go in the Lion, and therefore you must have
her in readiness to attend that service. Helvoet-Sluis is, most
probably the place of landing, and therefore you must provide pilots
accordingly; but for your better satisfaction, in that as also for her
train, diet, and place of embarkation, you must attend her Majesty
at Canterbury to-morrow, by reason of my indisposition, and receive
her commands, which you are required punctually to observe. I
have given order to hasten away to you the standard, pendants,
barge, and ketch. Tell Capt. Stradling that the 600l. he received of
the Victualer of the Navy here must be delivered to the like officer
in Ireland. The Entrance and Providence will be with you suddenly, as I sent them instructions three days ago; and when they are
come you are to keep them by you that they may be employed in
the present service, and after that in any other instead of the Bonaventure for whose departure to Ireland I have already written to
his Majesty, and expect an answer shortly. [2 pp] |
Feb. 14,
Canterbury. |
28. Sec. Nicholas to Sir John Pennington. His Majesty has
commanded me to signify to you his will that after the accommodation of the Queen, the Princess Mary, and their suits, have been
provided for, you appoint a good ship for the transportation of
the Earl Marshal, and to take care that he be accommodated as
befits a person of his dignity. [1 p.] |
Feb. 14,
Canterbury. |
29. The same to the same. Herewith you will receive two
several warrants under the King's sign-manual. To-day I have, by
the King's command, written to the Lord Admiral to discharge those
ships that were taken up for transportation of her Majesty's baggage
and coaches and horses. Only one vessel is to come from London
with beer, to be transported from thence into Holland. It will be
expected that to-morrow you send an account what you have done
in these services, that we may know here in what forwardness things
are, and whether the ships are come to you from Portsmouth.
Their Majesties hold their resolution to be at Dover on Wednesday
next, to expect a fair wind for transportation. You shall do well to
provide good pilots, as well for Helvoet-Sluis as for Flushing, in
regard of the wind, and the charge will be no great matter more
than ordinary. I hope to see you on Wednesday at Dover. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 14. |
30. Certificate of Arthur Squibb, J.P., that Edward Kempe, clerk
and fellow of Queen's College, Cambridge, has taken the Oaths of
Allegiance and Supremacy before him at Westminster. [Seal with
arms. ½ p.] |
Feb. 14,
Canterbury. |
31. Thomas Earl of Arundel to Sir John Pennington. Asking
him to accommodate him with a good strong ship that he may put
his goods into, being in attendance on the Queen. [Seal with crest,
coronet, and motto. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 14. |
32. Certificate of John Enys, that Mr. Long has perfected his
accounts with me till the 7th November 1640, for all monies, by him
received and disbursed for the business of draining [the fens] undertaken by the Earl of Lindsey, and that the same are duly charged
and discharged in my accounts. [½ p.] |
Feb. 14,
Westminster. |
33. Warrant of the King to the Commissioners of the Treasury
and Officers of the Exchequer. Whereas Lord Cottington surrendered
the offices of Chancellor and Under-Treasurer of the Exchequer the
31st May last, and letters patent for the same were issued to Sir
John Culpepper, 1st Jan. 1642; and it was our intention that Sir
John Culpepper should receive all profits, &c. belonging to the said
offices from the time of the surrender by Lord Cottington; yet by
virtue of the letters patent, we are informed he cannot receive
them: our will, therefore, is that you pay out of the Exchequer to
Sir John Culpepper 100l. for the several fees, &c. of the Chancellor
and Under-Treasurer for the half year ending Michaelmas, and
cause allowance to be made him elsewhere of all other fees in any
way belonging to those offices. [Copy. 12/3 p.] |
| Feb. 14. |
34. Bond of Spencer Earl of Northampton, to Christopher
Randall of St. Helen's, London, in 1,800l., conditioned that if the
said Spencer Earl of Northampton, his heirs and executors, &c.,
repay to Edward Cranfield and John Giles, their executors, &c., the
several sums herein specified at the days within mentioned, in full
discharge of their several bonds, that then this obligation to be void,
or else to stand and abide in full force. [Strip of parchment. Latin
and English.] |
Feb. 14,
Star Chamber Lobby. |
35. Votes of the Committee of the Forest of Dean to be reported
to the House of Commons. That Sir John Wintour, by reason of
his recusancy and not performing conditions with the King, is not
fit to hold his bargain any longer, especially his bargain being disadvantageous to the Commonwealth: That his offer to surrender
his patent be accepted: That the Commissioners of the Treasury
cause his accounts to be examined, and such timber and wood as is
now felled and will otherwise be spoiled to be disposed of; and to
take care that Sir Bainham Throckmorton may have his full complement of cord-wood until Michaelmas next. Underwritten:
"These are the votes of the Committee, but not yet reported to the
House. Henry Marten, 4 Mar. 1641–2." [Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 15,
Canterbury. |
36. Sec. Nicholas to Sir John Pennington. By the enclosed you
will receive directions in as many of the particular demands which
you sent as can be given you before the King and Queen shall be
at Dover, which will be to-morrow in the afternoon. I have given
order for a Privy Seal to be prepared for the payment of 200l. for
yourself, and 72l. for Mr. White, which money is to be paid to the
Treasurer of the Navy for that purpose. The Bonaventure is
presently to hasten away for Ireland, and therefore pray give
Captain Stradling notice thereof. The King in the note enclosed
has, with his pen, written so, as you may perceive. I have returned
to you my Lord Admiral's letter as you desired. The Queen is
resolved to land at Helvoet-sluis, but you must take pilots for both
places. Mr. Haye, one of the Queen's gentlemen ushers, who goes
the journey, will be at Dover this night to direct you what is fit to
be done. [Seal with arms and crest. 1 p.] Enclosed, |
|
36. i, Queries as to the arrangements for the Queen's transportation into Holland [submitted by Sir John Pennington
as Admiral of the Fleet], with replies in the margin by
Sec. Nicholas. The ships with me here are the Lion
[margin, for the Queen and Princess Mary]; Bonaventure
[margin, in the King's handwriting, " Let her go on her
journey for Ireland"]; Entrance [margin, for the Duchess
of Richmond]; Mary Rose [margin, Earl Marshal];
Providence [margin, for the Queen's servants]; Grayhound
[margin, for the Princess Mary's servants]. The first
three queries, as to who are to accompany the Queen and
Princess, who are to go in Pennington's ship, and how
the rest are to go, are referred to the direction of Mr. Hay.
The fourth, as to accommodation [margin, for six coaches
and about 120 horses of all sorts]. The fifth, as to fodder
for the horses [margin, the purveyor who attends the
service is to take order herein]. The sixth, as to the place
of landing, whether Flushing, Helvoet-sluis, or Rotterdam
[margin, Helvoet-sluis, but pilots are to be provided for
both places]. The eighth, whether a salute is to be fired
when the Queen is aboard [margin, the Queen is to direct
when she shall be at Dover]. The ninth, to let the King
know what is saved by taking up of these vessels. The
tenth, to desire his Majesty to explain himself about the
office [margin, when he shall be at Dover he will]. The
eleventh, which ship the Earl of Arundel, as Earl Marshal,
is to have [margin, the Mary Rose]. The twelfth, money
for the barks [margin, when the Queen shall be at Dover].
The thirteenth, provisions for each ship wherein her Majesty's people go [margin, Mr. Wood is to give order for
this]. Endorsed by Pennington: "Queries about the
Queen's transportation." [1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 16. |
37. Mr. Speaker's letter to the King, concerning the great affairs
and state of the kingdom. [Pamphlet. Printed at London for
John Thomas, 1641–2. 8 pp.] |
| Feb. 16. |
38. Captain Robert Fox to Sir John Pennington. You shall
receive herein the Diurnal of this week's passages in Parliament,
with other authentic printed copies of this week's occurrences.
After the signing of the Bills for the voting [out] of the Bishops
and the pressing of the soldiers for Ireland, the Lords of the Upper
House released the Bishops from the Tower upon bail, but, the
House of Commons misliking it, have this day caused their commitment again. They have likewise ordered that all rails and
altars in cathedral churches shall be removed, and all painted glass
taken down. Letters of Lord Digby's have been brought into the
House of Commons and there read, and the rumour in the City is
that there is great matter of treason contained in them; but I hear
not any particulars mentioned, only counsel given to the Queen to
persuade his Majesty to put himself into some secure place, excusing
his departure as not having fled from justice, but from the hands of
traitors; and withal that he may have a character [cipher] to write
in, not daring to commit anything to writing in an usual hand.
The Earl [of Bristol], his father, is fallen very sick, and it is much
feared takes the matter so far to heart that he will hardly escape
it. I suppose that all the occurrences at Court are with you before
here. I shall not trouble you to tell you that the Grand Admiral
and General Captain Rainsborough is this day buried, but with
what pomp I cannot relate. [Seal with arms and crest. 1 p.] |
| [Feb. 16.] |
39. [Evidence before the Committee of the Commons against
Sir F. Windebank, late Sec. of State.] Comprising a letter of
23 Nov. 1634 from Father Joseph of Paris, a Capuchin, also a
notice of the letter of thanks of Panzani, the Pope's Nuncio. [1 p.] |
Feb. 16,
Westminster. |
40. Certificate of Matthew Francis, J.P., that John Kyrle, of co.
Hereford, has taken the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy. [¼ p.] |
| Feb. 16. |
41. Acquittance of Ralph Goodwin for 10l. received of Robert
Long for the use of his sister, Mrs. Olive Long. [¼ p.] |
| Feb. 17. |
42. A schedule of all such Recusants in the Southern parts of
England as are in arrear with the King's rent due by composition,
and otherwise for their Recusancy at and before Michaelmas 1641.
Total, 1,745l. 15s. 2¾d. [7 pp.] |
| Feb. 17. |
43. Acquittance of Ezekiel Marmet, minister of the French
Church in London, and sole executor of the late Paul Guillaumyer
[see Jan. 5, Vol. 488, No. 23], for 50l. from Lawrence Squibb, as
appertaining to the said Guillaumyer's estate deposited in the
hands of Squibb. [Seal with arms and crest. ½ p.] Underwritten, |
|
43. i. Receipt of Florentin Tainturier for the same. [¼ p.] |
| Feb. 18. |
44. Account delivered to Mr. Gilbert, the Earl of Leicester's
secretary, showing what warrants were issued for ordnance and
munition for Ireland between 6th Nov. 1641 and 18 Feb. 1641–2,
what has been delivered upon those warrants, what is remaining
undelivered, and what is wanting in the stores to supply the defects
of the provisions undelivered. [Copy. 2 pp.] |
Feb. 18,
Denmark House. |
45. Notes of Sir John Lambe concerning the lands appertaining
to the manor of Epworth, co. Lincoln, part of the Queen's jointure,
and the rents received for the same from Mr. Coignett and others.
[1 p.] |
Feb. 19,
Dover. |
46. Sec. Nicholas to Sir Thomas Rowe. I have received your
late dispatches, accompanied with very considerable pieces and of
weighty concernment. The King has commanded me to tell you
that he will consider them fully, and cause such instructions to be
sent upon them, upon advice with his Council, as shall be held
requisite, so soon as the Court comes to Whitehall, which I believe
may be shortly, and shall be in better settledness than at present.
The Queen and Princess Mary are here, ready to embark for
Holland on Tuesday next, to which purpose their goods and baggage
are now shipping. This sudden resolution was taken by the Queen,
upon the States' and Prince of Orange's extraordinary instances for
the Princess to be immediately sent over, to see her daughter well
settled in those parts, from whence her Majesty purposes to return
again within 10 days or a fortnight at the furthest. The King
goes back for Greenwich, where the Prince will be on Monday, and
the Household to attend his Majesty's coming. |
|
We hear not of any progress the rebels have made in Ireland;
but, on the contrary, that they daily lose courage, espying our ships
upon their coasts, which give them occasion to despair of their
long expected foreign succours. There were very lately some Irish
commanders, with arms and ammunition, stayed in Cornwall, being
by stress of weather driven for shelter into a port of that county,
as they were coming out of France; by which accident the rebels
are much disappointed. In pursuit of the relief of that kingdom;
which is forwarded on all hands, a fresh supply of English, 1,500
foot and 400 horse, was lately expedited from West Chester, besides
the 2,500 Scots who were on their way thither 10 or 12 days since.
Prince Robert arrived here from Holland on Thursday last. His
Majesty has passed a Bill whereby the seats and votes of Bishops
in Parliament are absolutely taken away. As soon as I can possibly
I shall press his Majesty, according to your desire, for your leave
to return home. [1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 19. |
47. Petition of Thomas Danby, under-sheriff of Sir Thomas
Danby, high sheriff of co. York for the year ended Michaelmas
1638, to Sir John Culpepper, Chancellor of the Exchequer and
Privy Councillor. That the said high-sheriff has, by petitioner,
disbursed divers sums of money for his Majesty's service in
execution of his office, viz., for removing and executing of felons,
and other things, amounting to 100l.: That the Judges who then
went that circuit ought to have examined the sheriff's account, and
to have made allowance thereof: That Sir George Vernon, who
is since deceased, and Sir Robert Berkeley, who now stands
committed by Parliament, and in that regard refuses to meddle
with the said account, went that circuit in the year 1638, and
petitioner could not sooner get in his Majesty's debts to pass
his account, by reason of the armies then lying in that county:
May it therefore please your Honour that Sir Edward Henden,
one of the Barons of the Exchequer who last rode that circuit,
may examine the said sheriff's account, and certify what he thinks
fit to be allowed thereupon, or to direct such course therein for
petitioner's relief as you shall deem meet. Underwritten, |
|
47. i. Reference to Baron Henden to consider of this sheriff's
bill, and certify what allowance he thinks fit to be given
upon the same. 19 Feb. 1641–2. |
|
47. ii. Certificate of Sir Edward Henden that he has perused
the sheriff's disbursements, which amount to 114l. 4s. 4d.,
and that it is fit to allow the said sheriff 66l. 13s. 4d.
Serjeants' Inn, Fleet St., 21 Feb. 1641–2. [1 p.] |
Feb. 21,/March 3,
Royston. |
48. Charles Louis Elector Palatine to [Sir Thomas Rowe]. This
place and the occasion of my coming hither shall plead for my
briefness. Next week will get you a resolution concerning your
return, which you so much wish for. I am extremely satisfied with
your negotiation, hoping that may yet produce some contentment
before your departure. There is order taken for your money, and
the King has assured me he will not neglect you in the rest. The
Earls of Essex and Holland also [have] promised to provide for
you on their [responsibility], so I shall only desire you to continue
a stout heart, and if you bring not the Palatinate home with you,
yet I shall be glad to see yourself in good health and in a better
condition than when you went abroad, and you shall find me for
ever your most affectionate and obliged friend. [Seal with coronet,
arms, and motto. 1¼ pp.] |
Feb. 21,/Mar. 3,
The Hague. |
49. Sir William Boswell to Sir Thomas Rowe. How yours of
10th Jany. came indeed uncovered (which was a cruelty in so cold
weather), but alive and without defalcation of any member, I have
signified in a former. Your last of 24th Jany. got through the
briars with a whole skin, but too late to my hand to be answered
by the last ordinary. I cannot imagine how it may be possible for
you to proceed with more circumspection and advantage to your
charge and party than you have done for any change or chance
whatsoever that can befall. But particularly it pleases me that you
let the Spaniard stand where he has cooped up himself, not doubting
but we shall expound the rest of his riddle in good time where you
prophetically lay the scene, "Si quid habent vatum prœsagia veri!"
Let me add that your poetry must needs be excellent flowing from
a confluence of nature and indignation, "Furor est ab utroque," &c.
I will hope that Mentz denies wholly to bring the other "interesser" on; because I see not where he paid the moneys for the
redemption of the lands, and both he cannot ask. For Bavaria I
should confess myself in a wood and bewildered, if I did not know
you too expert a forester as "not to see the wood for trees." For his
declaration in favour of the Prince Elector, "timeo Danaos et dona
ferentes." It is true that Messrs. Cancerarius and Maurice, this
last especially, have framed an anti-manifesto to the Bavarian,
whereby to free the Palatine from many most egregious and gross
calumnies, &c. It is in the press, but upon your advertisement it
will be kept up most exactly till they see the event of your negotiation, being printed by three or four several men, the one not
knowing what part, for they all have parts, the other prints.
M. Maurice will pay me the 150 rix-dollars you lent Dr. Mesterlin,
only he expects some order from the Electress Dowager for it with
other things. Prince Rupert is ere this in England, whence we
expect with the first good wind the Queen and the Princess Mary;
all things here for their entertainment being in readiness, and themselves since Wednesday last at Dover fitting for the voyage; which
myself have certified the States and Prince of Orange of, as well as
their own ministers. It is believed in England her Majesty will be
back in three or four months or sooner. The King will see them
aboard the ship before he returns, having signed the Bill for exclusion of the Bishops out of the Parliament and ordering the militia
and forts of the kingdom by advice of the Houses. So that most
conceive all things will go on smoothly between his Majesty and
them for the future, whereby, with his Majesty's gracious wisdom
and God's blessing, we may soon be in a condition sufficient to
reduce Ireland and assist our friends abroad. It falls out well that
the meeting at Münster is not like to hold so soon. [3 pp.] |
| Feb. 21. |
50. Order of the Lords in Parliament. That the Lord High
Admiral shall be desired to make view of the complaints and proofs
of William and Anne Paulett and their partners touching a
depredation committed upon them by some of the subjects of the
States of the United Provinces. And as his Lordship shall find
cause upon examination of the business to recommend them to his
Majesty to have letters of marque granted by way of reprisal
against the subjects of the States of the United Provinces. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 22. |
51. The King's answer concerning a proposition made by both
Houses of Parliament touching the raising of money for suppressing
the revolt in Ireland, delivered by his Majesty the 22 Feb. to the
Earl of Westmoreland, Sir Wm. Pennyman, and Mr. Sutton.
[Printed in the Lords' Journals, iv., 608, and Commons' Journals, ii., 450, under date Feb. 24. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 23,
Court at Dover. |
52. Warrant of the King to Sir John Pennington. You are to
continue in Holland after landing the Queen and her suite so long
as she shall command, and when she shall resolve to return you are
to bring her back into such part of our dominions as she shall
appoint, and to provision the ships for the return journey; if requisite you are to do that out of such ships as have a greater proportion,
or otherwise, as you shall conceive best for our service. [Endorsed
by Pennington. 1 p.] |
Feb. 24,
Court at Dover. |
53. The like to the Attorney or Solicitor General. You are to
prepare a Bill containing a grant of the dignity of a Baron of
England to John Carey of Rigleswick, co. York, and the heirs male
of his body, together with a discharge in usual form for freeing him
of the payment of such money as is usually reserved in respect of
that dignity. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 25. |
54. Note of fees due to his Majesty's servants for the knighthood
of Sir John Minse [Menys or Minnes], made at the Court at Dover
Feb. 25, 1641–2, total 60l. [1 p.] |
| Feb. |
55. Petition of the merchants trading in Spanish wines to the
Commons' House of Parliament. Represent that Francis Hurdman,
an officer in the Custom-house, takes 100 crowns for every 100 tuns
full or empty with the title and colour of 5s. per tun for composition
or butlerage, which in case the said duty be due and payable by
petitioners, yet he ought to take but 88 crowns for every 100 tuns
in regard that 12 in the 100 is allowed to petitioners for leakage.
Pray that Hurdman be caused to make restitution and satisfaction
for all that he has unduly taken, amounting to 3l. upon every tun,
and to exhibit his authority for the taking of the said duties.
[¾ p.] |
| Feb. |
56. Petition of Justinian Morse to the Council. That being on a
visit to his brother-in-law at Pirton Stoke, Wilts, one Robert Dowsell came with a warrant to apprehend his brother in-law, who on
seeing Dowsell betook himself to flight, and Dowsell, pursuing him,
in passing by petitioner gave him a touch on the body, petitioner
being unawares either of his brother or Dowsell passing by him.
But he has been arrested and caused to give bond in 200l. to appear
at Durham House 6th Feb., upon the oath of the said Dowsell that
it was by the petitioner's means that his brother-in-law had escaped.
Whereas the said Dowsell is a person defamed, as the certificate
annexed may certify, and therefore not fit to take oath, petitioner
prays that he may be released. [¾ p.] Annexed, |
|
56. i. Certificate that Robert Dowsell has been a thief and rogue and
convicted in court, with witnesses' names appended. [¾ p.] |
| [Feb.] |
57. Petition of Henry Mainwaring, searcher of the port of Chester,
to the Commissioners of the Treasury. The liberties of this port
extending 60 miles on each side Chester, petitioner has been enforced
to spend above 20l. per annum in riding charges, and also pay 20l.
a year wages to one man in Chester and another in Liverpool in the
execution of the service, besides coquet-fees to his deputies. The
greater part of petitioner's maintenance was derived from the
coal farmers for collecting the impost and keeping account of the
lading of all coal-ships, the want of which attendance will be a
great prejudice to the King, and the rest from the coquet-fees upon the
entry of all goods and merchandise, save only five marks a year fee
from his Majesty. Three parts of our trade have been with Ireland.
The impost on coals not being paid, and the Irish trade so much
decayed by reason of the rebellion, that petitioner has not wherewith
to maintain himself, or to perform journeys in execution of the
service. If the Commissioners would reduce the number of tidewaiters and their wages to what they were in the last farmer's time,
when trading was ten times better with us than now it is, his
Majesty might save a reasonable sum, and petitioner have a competent maintenance out of the present charge. Prays that an investigation may take place into the behaviour and usefulness of the
farmers and waiters, as well as of petitioner's office, and so the King
be eased of some fruitless charge, the port better settled, and
petitioner enabled the better to perform his service. [1 p.] |
| [Feb.] |
58. Petition of Hugh Aston, clerk, James Bardowe, yeoman,
Hugh Pope, groom, and Thomas Mount, page, her Majesty's
servants in ordinary in the office of her Robes, to the Lords
Commissioners for his Majesty's Treasury. Petitioners having
formerly joined in petition to your Lordships with the Grooms of
both their Majesties' Privy Chambers, Backstairs, and the King's
Robes, for payment of two years' liveries due at All Saints' last
in 1641, found the success of that petition of little help by reason
the petitioners were many, and, besides the liveries due to them
for the two last years, many arrears were demanded which made
the debt so great you were not able to give that contentment you
were willing. Yet something you appointed for all the petitioners,
which they had humbly accepted but that they were assured by
Townsend your Lordships had promised a Privy Seal to the
Wardrobe of 11,000l., which would pay all liveries, and if
petitioners accepted a smaller sum they must not hope to have
any part in the greater; wherefore petitioners waited for that Privy
Seal and lost their time and hopes. Now petitioners, being left
to themselves, and perceiving that divers of their Majesties' servants
have obtained help from you, pray your consideration of them,
some being now in Holland with her Majesty, while their wives
and children are here, and the others employed daily in her
Majesty's service here, that they may receive your order for
payment of their two years' liveries, which amount to 320l. [16 pp.] |
| [Feb.] |
59. Sec. Nicholas to the Attorney-General. His Majesty has
commanded Sir Henry Mildmay, Master of his Jewel House, to
deliver to me plate and jewels belonging to the Crown, to carry
over into the Low Countries to be disposed of as his Majesty has
directed; and my haste being such that his Majesty's service might
suffer if I should stay till a formal warrant for a business of this
consequence be procured, I pray give your advice and assistance
for the present drawing of a sufficient legal warrant from his
Majesty as well to Sir Henry Mildmay to deliver the plate and
jewels, whereof Mr. Layton, an officer of the Jewel House, will give
you a note as to myself to receive and dispose of them according to
his Majesty's directions. I know your experience and judgment
can sufficiently inform you how near it concerns me to have a good
warrant for my discharge of a business of this nature, and I am
confident you will not be wanting in diligence and care to do it
as shall be best for my safety. [Draft. 1 p.] |
| Feb. |
60. Privy Seal Book for the Queen's jointure lands, containing
minutes of all leases, patents, attachments, commissions, subpœnas,
grants, decrees, and surrenders which passed the Queen's seal
between 13 Jany. 1640–1 and 9th Feb. 1641–2. [Endorsed by
Sir John Lamb: Seal Book for the Queen, 1640 and 1641.
18 pp.] |
