William III: January 1699 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: William III, 1699-1700. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1937.

'William III: January 1699', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: William III, 1699-1700, (London, 1937) pp. 1-39. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/will-mary/1699-1700/pp1-39 [accessed 23 April 2024]

January 1699



Jan. 1. Kensington.	Commission to Mr. Henry Devenish to be ensign of Major Caroll's company in Brigadier Trelawney's regiment [S.P. 44. 167. p. 364]: to Mr. John Raye to be quarter-master to the Marquis de Puisar's regiment of foot. [Ibid. p. 370.]
Jan. 2. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Treasury. The king has appointed Mr. Hill, his envoy at Brussels, to carry his compliments to the duke and duchess of Lorraine upon their marriage, and has allowed him £500 for the journey. [S.P. 44. 99. pp. 577–8.]
	The same to the Admiralty. I have laid before his Majesty Mr. Birchet's letter to Mr. Ellis of 28th ult., with the draft of your instructions for Capt. Warren. He approves the instructions and is pleased to think that Capt. Warren will be able to govern himself thereby as to the time of his return, though it be not expressly limited. [S.P. 44. 204. p. 198.]
Jan. 2. Kensington.	Warrant for the grant of the dignities of a baron and earl of the kingdom of Ireland to Frederic William de Roye and de la Rochefoucault, comte de Marton, by the style of baron of Clonmell, co. Tipperary, and earl of Lifford. [S.O. 1. 14. p. 130.]
	Commission to Mr. Luke Davis to be lieutenant of Capt. William Coward's troop of dragoons in Col. Robert Echlin's regiment. [S.P. 44. 167. p. 365.]
Jan. 3. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. We have four mails now due; and it is said we have lost a pacquet boat, but I don't know how that can appear till another pacquet boat arrives.
	The king came back to Kensington on Saturday last. We have done little in Parliament these two days. Yesterday we were in a committee upon the Bill to prevent the exportation of corn. The enquiry into the Admiralty affairs is put off till Thursday. Those who prosecute that matter have their reasons for letting the point about the number of the forces be first settled, which will come into debate to-morrow, and previous to it the call of the House was this day. [S.P. 32. 15. f. 289.]
Jan. 3. Whitehall.	J. Ellis to the same. I was all last week in attendance upon the king in his retirement at Windsor, where there was neither news, nor diversion, and the weather was so bad that all I could do was to keep myself warm in that bleak place; which, as it is one of the finest summer seats, so it is one of the worst in winter, standing so high that it is never without keen winds; and his Majesty found the air too sharp for him to continue there with pleasure, it occasioning his being very chilly; though, God be thanked, he is well in health.
	Mr. Hill, envoy extraordinary at Brussels, is to carry the king's compliments to the court of Lorraine, and he will soon be going. Endorsed, R. 7–17, 1698–9. [Ibid. ff. 290–291.]
	[R. Yard] to [the same]. Sir William Norris, ambassador to the Great Mogul, intends to go to-morrow to embark at Portsmouth on board the squadron designed for suppressing the pirates in the East Indies. Endorsed, R. Jan. 7–17, 98–9. Mr. Yard. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 80–81.]
	Ja. Vernon to the Commissioners of Trade. I have laid before his Majesty your letters of 29 and 31 ult. As to the first, relating to the interruption of the fishery about Nova Scotia, he would have you consider the American treaty mentioned in the said papers, whether the pretentions of the French in this particular are thereby justified, and what else you observe in the treaty that is liable to be laid hold of to the disadvantage of his Majesty's subjects, and that a state thereof be drawn up.
	As to Col. Fletcher you are to proceed in that enquiry and report. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 581.]
Jan. 3. Dublin Castle.	The earl of Galway to Mr. Vernon. We are sending you to-day an exact account of what is taking place in the two Houses.
	It is most unfortunate that Mr. Stones has not arrived yet. As the Council has not thought fit to send us back all the Bills which he took over to you, those who are trying to delay coming to a conclusion, which they fear might be advantageous to the king's service, avail themselves of the excuse of awaiting the return of Mr. Stones and the absence of most of the members.
	I cannot give you a positive assurance yet that the two Bills about the linen and the woollen manufactures will pass, but I am not without hope. The arguments are so strong that I would be answerable for them, if one could ever answer for the moods of so large an assembly.
	When Mr. Stones has arrived we shall tell the two Houses that there are no more Bills to wait for, and shall press for a conclusion with better grace and more effect. If, however, contrary winds delay Mr. Stones over Sunday, we shall act as if he were not coming; but with less success, owing to his absence. French. 2 pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 18–19.]
Jan. 3. Council Office: Dublin.	W. Palmer [to the same]. The enclosed prints bring you the proceedings in our House. You will observe in yesterday's Votes how intent we are (in relation to both the woollen and linen manufactures) to comply with the desire of your House of Commons, and we are in hopes that it may a little take off that warmth which seems to be in the beginning of the sessions against us; nay, I am of opinion we have done something a little out of the way, in that we have received a Bill to correct a mistake in the linen manufacture Bill, before the Act itself is passed. How parliamentary this is I will not judge, but it shows our willingness to do what lies in our power, or can be thought reasonable. I must own we had some debates about it, but it was carried. It is most certain the linen Bill, without this, must have miscarried; and now there is a chance for its passing this session.
	This day the Act for raising £120,000 towards the Supply was read a first time.
	The next thing that was brought into the House was a little remarkable. It was a message from the lords justices (received with great respect) wherein they intimated the misfortune that our proceedings in the woollen manufacture Bill was not so forward as to be likely to pass this session, as public necessity required; therefore their lordships thought they could not better express their great concern for us than by sending us a Bill in form, which was transmitted for that purpose from England, whereby the parliament of England would see that we were in earnest in that affair.
	How surprising this was to the greatest part of the House, when we were by Order of the Day to have this matter under consideration by a report from their committee, you will easily imagine, and that it could not but occasion a long and warm debate. More particularly when you consider what was urged; that this was a money Bill, that by its being brought in, in this manner, it seemed as if it was calculated more to assert the sole right than any other end. That which convinced them the more was that the Bill has lain on this side the water long before our first adjournment, and might have been brought in long since; that, by offering it now in this present necessity of affairs, it did not leave them a free choice for receiving or rejecting it, foreseeing the consequences in case it should meet with the latter.
	But an end was put to the debates, and it was carried to receive it by 74 against 34; that is the previous question was demanded whether the question should be put, and, that being carried on the division as aforesaid, that determined the other question without a division; upon which it was read a first time, and ordered a second reading (after some short debate) on Tuesday: by which time the committee will have made their report, and, if there prove no great matter of difference between the Bill and their resolutions, the Bill may pass.
	This matter has put the country gentlemen into a little heat, but it is to be hoped, when they consider the absolute necessity for our own sakes that is upon us, it will weigh with them so far as to bring them into temper, so that the king's affairs (I mean in relation to the Bills for Supply) may meet with no obstruction; though the Votes of your House, which came by the last packets, will give some angry people but too good a handle to argue against it, by saying that we make provision for these very men for six months here, which your House have voted shall be forthwith disbanded.
	I fear it may occasion the throwing out the small Bill for completing the Supply and building barracks. Though I think in gratitude to the king (to whom we owe our all) we ought to do something a little extraordinary in this juncture, and pass them both, since the vote of your House cannot but be a little uneasy to the king's affairs.
	This day Col. Ross, Mr. Pendergrass, and Mr. Robt. Pooley, with several other gentlemen, sail for Chester: the two latter intend to wait on you: your humble servant and kinsman, W. Palmer. 3 pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 20–21.]
Jan. 5. Kensington.	Licence to Thomas Dawes, esq., high sheriff of Cumberland, to live out of the county [S.P. 44. 163. p. 117]: to Christopher Clitherow, esq., high sheriff of Rutland, a similar licence. [Ibid. p. 120.]
Jan. 5. Whitehall.	Proceedings upon the petition of Capt. John Harris; setting forth that he suffered much damage during the late troubles in Ireland: that he served his Majesty till the reduction of that kingdom and afterwards in Flanders: that one Edward Arden, late of Durham, died indebted to him £300, and also to his Majesty £188 8s. 5d., which he prays may be bestowed on him. Referred to the Treasury. [S.P. 44. 238. p. 275.]
Jan. 5. Doctors Commons.	John Tomlinson to George Freeman, attorney in Bristol: informing him that administration of the goods of Wm. Minson, late of Ilminster, deceased, was granted 20 March, 1696–7, to Thomas Minson, brother of the deceased, being curator chosen by Mary, Anne, and Martha, the children of the deceased. The inventory was exhibited 20 March, 1696–7. [S.P. 32. 11. f. 82.]
Jan. 6. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. Four mails arrived together on Wednesday last, by which I received your letters of 30 Dec., 2, 6, and 9th inst., N.S. Your letter to the Speaker was delivered to him by Mr. Slone, and it was read this day in the House, and thereupon ordered that a new writ issue for the borough of Thetford. There was no opposition to it; only Mr. How (who makes his observations on everything) would have had a day to consider whether foreign employments should excuse attendance in the House; but nobody else was of his mind.
	I am glad you have put Mr. Clifford's business off your hands, and now he must stand and fall by the goodness of his cause in the ordinary course of justice.
	As to the power you mention for treating with those deputed by the States, as well as the Swedish minister, you have that already, they being both mentioned in the same commission. If you think it necessary to have it drawn over again it may soon be done, and you will only please to tell me what you would have altered in the former power.
	Lord Portland's secretary sent me but yesterday the dates I wanted, so I shall get the other matter despatched (I hope) to be sent away next post.
	I could not expect you should have any other notions abroad of what we are doing here, but yet we seem resolved to presevere in it. The debate came on, on Wednesday, whether there should be an instruction to the committee to reconsider the number of men that were to be kept up, and nothing was omitted to be said that might induce them to it; but they stuck to their own notions. There were three men spoke against us that were alone enough to give up the cause, viz.: Lord Hartington, Mr. Pelham, and Sir Richard Onslow: so after four hours' debate the question was carried in the negative, without a division, upon the cry of the House.
	Yesterday and this day were spent in passing the Bill through the Committee. It is declared that the troops be disbanded by March 26 next, and the like in Ireland. They have qualified the clause that none should remain in arms but natural born subjects of England, and now either Scotch or Irish may serve.
	The question was asked whether they intended the Marines should be disbanded. The leaders of the reform would not answer directly, but said they were not to be considered but in the charge of the fleet. How the army should be paid was left in a blank, and that is next to be taken care of. Therefore it is ordered that this committee sit again on Wednesday next. In the meantime a motion will be made for a Supply, and it will be resolved in a committee; and, when that is reported, it will be put into a Bill, to be incorporated, as I suppose, with the Bill for disbanding the army.
	The Admiralty enquiry, that is to attend the issue of this matter, is put off till Tuesday, and I suppose will be again postponed.
	I must confess it is very puzzling to know what this will end in, but 'tis not to be distrusted that a nation will irrecoverably abandon themselves. Endorsed, R. Jan. 10–20, 98–9. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 85–86.]
Jan. 6. Whitehall.	Newsletter to the same. Endorsed, R. 10–20, 1698–9. [Ibid., ff. 83–84.]
	R. Y[ard] to the same. I make no doubt but the eyes of all people abroad are at present upon us, to see what will be done about the forces, and 'tis very likely they will not be satisfied with what has been resolved on by the House of Commons, to reduce them in England to 7,000. But they must not think that they are therefore in an ill disposition towards his Majesty and his Government; but the principle is so fixed in the country gentlemen that an army is dangerous to the ancient constitution of the kingdom, and may in time bring them to the same condition their neighbours are in, that they cannot be prevailed with to allow of any more soldiers than what are absolutely necessary to attend the king as a guard for his person, and for the garrisons.
	Mr. Pelham of the Treasury has been as zealous as anybody against an army, and Lord Hartington spoke likewise in the House against keeping up a greater number than 7,000, and, indeed, the inclination of the House is so strong this way that it has not been thought proper to divide about it. The particulars you will know by the enclosed.
	[P.S.] On Wednesday arrived four posts from Holland, and I was favoured with as many letters from you. I am extremely obliged for the concern you express for me. As yet we do not hear of a new Secretary of State. Endorsed, R. 10–20, 1698–9. Mr. Yard. [Ibid. ff. 87–88.]
	Newsletter to the same. [On Wednesday] in the House of Commons, the Order of the Day was to go into a committee of the whole House for disbanding the forces; but a motion being made that an instruction might be given to the committee to augment or diminish the number of 7,000, it occasioned a debate of several hours, and at last it was carried in the negative without a division.
	Yesterday they went into a committee of the whole House upon the Bill. They appointed March 26th to be the time before which the forces are to be paid off and disbanded; and on March 1st the king's Proclamation is to be published, containing the names and numbers of the regiments to be kept on foot. They had a debate about the words in the Bill, which did not allow any to serve but the king's natural born subjects of England, so that it is left at large to his Majesty's subjects born in any of his dominions. There was likewise some debate about the four marine regiments, whether they are to be disbanded, but it was at last dropped, as more proper to be considered when they come upon the business of the fleet.
	[This day] the House in committee adjourned the further consideration of the Bill till Wednesday next, that in the meantime they may consider of raising money to pay off the troops that are to be disbanded, and in all likelihood the Supply for this purpose will be put into the same Bill. Endorsed, R. 10–20, 1698–9. [Ibid. ff. 89–90.]
	J. Ellis to the same. I have your excellency's of 30 past, 2, 6, and 9 inst., N.S., to acknowledge. The Votes have been sent you from the office ever since the Parliament has sat, and I hope you have received them. If any are wanting they shall be supplied.
	They have done very little to-day, besides making a further progress in the consideration of the Disbanding Bill, which they will go through on Wednesday. They have mitigated the clause concerning his Majesty's subjects, and made it his natural born subjects, leaving out the words of England, so that now all born in Ireland and Scotland, and the plantations, and those naturalized, are capable of serving in our small army.
	Lord Paston stands for Thetford in your room, and it is not doubted but he will be chosen. It was moved to-day, by a goodnatured member, that a writ should be issued for Rochester, as well as Thetford, by reason of your absence.
	Sir John Austen, one of the commissioners of the Customs, is dead; and so is Roger Hewett. Endorsed, R. 10–20, 1698–9. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 292–293.]
Jan. 7. Custom House: London.	The commissioners of Customs to Secretary Vernon. In answer to your enquiry of 31st ult. upon a memorial of the French ambassador relating to two French ships seized by one Capt. Edwards, we wrote to Mr. Bretton, customer and collector of Dover, for a statement of the case. We received the enclosed answer.
	Enclosing the answer above referred to, dated Dover, 5 Jan. 1698–9, signed Rich. Breton, viz.: I believe the matter of fact to be as stated in the memorial [of the French ambassador], the vessel of Le Roye being here and that of Blair at Ramsgate. They both took their lading (wool) in Holland, and are bound for France. The ships and wool were seized by John Edwards, who has a deputation from the commissioners for executing the Act, 1 Will. & M., for preventing the exportation of wool. He is master of a vessel fitted out by them for that service. He had also a deputation from the commissioners of Excise. Edwards has got a writ of appraisement. In the opinion of such as are understanding in wool, it is foreign wool. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 91–94.]
Jan. 7. Kensington.	Warrant for a grant to Charles Cotterell, son of Sir Charles Cotterell, the younger, of the office of assistant master of the ceremonies and of the office of master of the ceremonies in reversion. [S.P. 44. 347. pp. 380–1: S.O. 3. 20. f. 164.]
	Royal warrant, to the lords of the Treasury of Scotland, reciting that James, viscount Seafield, "our secretary for that our kingdom," has discharged that "trust without any conjunct since March last": and authorising the payment to him of the salary which would have been due to a conjunct secretary for that time, with so much more as will make up £1,000. [S.P. 57. 17. p. 72.]
	The same, to Sir James Stuart, lord advocate, to countersign the foregoing warrant. [Ibid., p. 73.]
	The same, reciting that the office of book-keeper and clerk of H.M. Mint of Scotland is vacant by the decease of William Bonnar, and appointing Robert Miller, writer in Edinburgh, in his place. Miller is obliged to keep two registers, in one of which is to be set down the time of ingiving the several quantities of bullion by the merchants and others in presence of the ingivers; which books shall be made patent to any who require the same, gratis, under pain of deprivation; as likewise to receive subscribed accounts from the master, warden, counter-warden, and essay-master, of all the quantities of silver coined in H.M. Mint according to the standart, which account he is to record in his other book, and the haill officers of the Mint are to subscribe the same quarterly, that it may be known what quantities of silver are past his Majesty's irons from time to time. Miller is given the fee and salary of £40 yearly, with all other fees, profits, duties, and casualties pertaining to the office. [Ibid. pp. 73–5.]
	The same, reciting that the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland was appointed to meet on the 20th inst.: and appointing John, Lord Carmichael, to be High Commissioner. [Ibid. pp. 75–6.]
	The king's instructions to Lord Carmichael, his commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
	1. You are to give full assurance of our resolutions to maintain Presbyterian Government in the Church of Scotland;
	2. to suffer nothing to be done to the prejudice of our authority;
	3. to take care that nothing be treated that is not a fit subject for an ecclesiastical meeting;
	4. to let them know that we regret that there are so many churches vacant, and that it will be most acceptable to us that they fall upon the most effectual methods for planting these churches with pious and learned ministers;
	5. not to allow the turning out of their churches such of the episcopal ministers as are qualified conform to the Act of Parliament;
	6. to encourage any inclinations in the Assembly to assume to their government such of the ministers who preached under bishops and are qualified by law, whom they find to be pious and moderate men;
	7. to allow them to appoint a commission for planting vacant churches, and for assuming such pious and sober ministers as have either qualified or shall qualify according to law;
	8. to endeavour that as soon as possible the Assembly despatch what is most necessary, and leave other matters to the commission and the inferior judicatories;
	9. in matters of difficulty you may advise with our Chancellor and other officers of state, or members of the Assembly;
	10. you are to dissolve the Assembly betwixt — and Feb. 10 next, and you are to appoint a new Assembly to meet at Edinburgh upon the — day of February, 1700. [Ibid. p. 77.]
	The king's letter to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. [Ibid. p. 78.]
	Royal warrant to the lords of the Treasury of Scotland to pay £500 to Lord Carmichael, as H.M. Commissioner to the General Assembly. [Ibid. p. 79.]
Jan. 7. St. Peter's Port Guernsey.	Pass, signed by Bernard Ellis, lieut.-governor of Guernsey, to Jean Barbier, master of the Adventure of Guernsey, with three men of his company, British subjects, to go to and return from St. Malo. Endorsed, papers relating to Barbier of the island of Guernsey.
	Annexed, (i) a note that Jean Barbier, son of Estienne and Marie le bouteiller, was condemned at Rennes in 1701 (á vie) for attempting to assist religious refugees to go to England. French: endorsed: La Palme, Jean Baptiste Fournier boutonnier: Jaques le Moine: Toussaint Cheminot: Mathurin Guerin. [S.P. 47. 2. 11.]
	(ii) Certificate from the rector of St. Peter's Port, Guernsey, that Jean Barbier was a native of Jersey, dated Feb. 17, 1698–9. French, 1 p. [Ibid. 12.]
Jan. 9. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Commissioners of Trade. His Majesty commands me to send you the enclosed copies of letters that the lords of the Admiralty have received from their agent at New England, to enquire what naval stores may be had from those parts. He would have you consider these papers with the other matters referred to you concerning the encroachments of the French in relation to the fishery.
	He would likewise have an account from you what are the known bounds of the English colonies that border upon the French in North America, and what you are informed of the pretentions of the French for extending themselves within those bounds to the prejudice of his Majesty's right. (Cal. S.P., America & West Indies. 1699, No. 22.) [S.P. 44. 99. p. 578.]
Jan. 9. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to Sir Henry Goodrick. I send you an extract of the French ambassador's memorial, as far as it concerns the two ships seized by Captain Edwards for having some packs of wool on board. You will please to take notice of what the French ambassador proposes, that, if the ships and goods ought not to be released, at least they may be allowed to pursue their voyage upon giving security. [Ibid. p. 579.]
	The same to the same. I sent you this afternoon the French ambassador's memorial. Since the commissioners are to meet upon it I believe it will be necessary that they draw up a state of the case to be laid before his Majesty, that he may be informed what reasons there were for seizing and detaining the ships, and, if a prosecution is intended, what will be the grounds.
	Mem^dum the 31 Dec. 1698, Mr. Secretary wrote to the commissioners of Customs to enquire, and a copy of the French ambassador's memorial was enclosed. [Ibid.]
	The same to the Commissioners of Trade. His Majesty commands me to send you a copy of the French ambassador's memorial complaining of the desolation made by the English in that part of St. Christopher's which by the treaty of Ryswick was to be restored to the French, and demanding reparation. Since the damage was done after they had notice of the conclusion of the peace, his Majesty would be informed whether you have any account from the island that such spoil has been committed there, and if so what reasons are given for it, and what your opinions are as to the demand of reparation. [Ibid. p. 580.]
	Ja. Vernon to the Admiralty. Referring to Mr. Bridger's letter, Nov. 16 last, from Boston, his Majesty would know whether it be most convenient to have a frigate sent thither as he desires. [S.P. 44. 204. p. 198.]
	The same to the same: giving orders for a yacht to take Mr. Hill, envoy extraordinary to Lorraine, to Rotterdam. [Ibid. p. 199.]
Jan. 9. Kensington.	The king to the bishop and the lord mayor of London, about collecting money for the poor. (Cf. Cal. S.P. Dom., 1698, p. 26.) [S.P. 44. 163. pp. 117–20.]
Jan. 9. Dublin Castle.	Lord Galway to Mr. Vernon. So far the contrary wind has kept Mr. Stones and the Bills on the other side of the Channel, and things have been delayed in consequence. If he arrives this week, well and good: in any case we shall let most of the members know that, if Mr. Stones does not arrive before the 18th, we cannot keep the parliament longer, and that everything must be so arranged that business may be concluded by that time: with an assurance, however, that, if he arrives sooner, we will give them time to pass the Bills which he brings.
	I am convinced that the Bill imposing duties on the woollen manufactures will pass. It seems likely that the Bill to regulate the quartering of soldiers will be rejected. I am very apprehensive about the linen manufactures Bill, (fn. 1) it is to be committed to-day. The most important members are ill-disposed, and we have not much time; but we will do what we can, and let you know what happens in a few days. French, 1½ pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 22–23.]
Jan. 10. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. We want our Friday's mail, and there is not much to acquaint you with. The committee yesterday voted a Supply to be granted to his Majesty, which the House unanimously agreed to this day, and to-morrow they go again into a committee upon it. It is not to be doubted but they intend that the first money raised shall be applied to the disbanding of the Forces, and, to that end, Lord Ranelagh and Lord Coningsby's estimates of what is in arrears to the Army is to be laid before that committee.
	They have begun this day on a committee, Mr. Boyle being in the chair, upon the Admiralty enquiry, which I think they will not make much of. What they were chiefly upon to-day was why the Mediterranean squadron did not sail sooner than September, when it was ordered in February. It was answered, for want of money to pay off the seamen; and that has produced another query, what money was remaining in the Treasurer of the Navy's hands on account of seamen's wages. The Treasury have already answered for him, there was none till it came in by the Two Millions Subscription; and that was towards the end of July.
	There were some other queries likewise made about the deductions for poundage, which is more Mr. Dodington's business to answer than Lord Orford's. They think something of this will appear in the letters from the Navy Board to the Admiralty, which are therefore sent for.
	Some questions were asked, what prizes were taken in the Mediterranean, while the fleet was there. It was answered by two or three of Lord Orford's friends that they had heard him declare he had touched none of those prizes, but had ordered that all of them should be delivered to Consul Westcomb, the agent for the Prize Office at Cadiz. By this sketch one may judge what the rest will be, when the committee sits again. Endorsed, R. Jan. 14–24. 99. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 298–299.]
Jan. 10. Whitehall.	R. Yard to the same. Sir William Norris, ambassador to the Great Mogul, went last Thursday for Portsmouth, where he arrived on Sunday, and the wind being easterly we conclude the squadron under Capt. Warren, consisting of four men-of-war, who are to cruise against the pirates, and are ordered to carry the ambassador and his retinue to some convenient port in the Mogul's territories, are gone to sea.
	Sir John Austin, one of the commissioners of the Customs, died some days ago.
	Yesterday the Commons went into a committee of the whole House to consider the motion of last Saturday for a Supply, and resolved that a Supply be granted to his Majesty. There arose a debate whether it should be expressed in the vote: a supply for disbanding the army, and for other occasions ? But it was carried without a division, that it should be a Supply in general. Endorsed, R. Jan. 24–14. 99. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 95–96.]
	J. Ellis to the same. We have no letters from Holland, and little worth troubling you with, the Parliament having done nothing material since Friday last besides voting a Supply, without naming the quantums, which they will go upon to-morrow, and likewise finish their report of the Disbanding Bill.
	They have been to-day upon the state of the Navy, but came to no resolutions, only ordered more accounts relating to that matter to be laid before them against Monday next. Some of the Commissioners of the Navy make this kind of war with some of the Lords of the Admiralty, but it is very uncertain which side will have the better. Endorsed, R. Jan. 14–24. 99. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 296–297.]
Jan. 10.	Thos. Beake to the same. I pray that you will accept my thanks for your many favours to my son Thomas, who, as I hope, does make it his study to obey all your commands. Endorsed, R. Jan. 14–24. 1699. Armorial seal. [Ibid. ff. 294–295.]
	The commissioners for preventing the exportation of wool, having this day met and considered the extract of the French ambassador's memorial, and finding his excellency's proposals so reasonable and suitable to what they offered to the agents for the French captain at Guildhall, London, John and Thomas Carbonell, on 7 Dec. last, with the consent of the proprietors of the Blackwell Hall sloop, Capt. John Edwards, commander, [have decided] that the wool may be unladen, and the two masters of the ships giving security to answer the proceedings at law, wherein they do not doubt but to make it appear to be English wool, they may proceed with the ships and the rest of their merchandise. Autograph signatures. Endorsed, the commissioners answer about the ships laden with wool. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 97–98.]
Jan. 10. Kensington.	Warrant to the lords justices of Ireland, for a grant to Dame Frances O'Neile, widow of Sir Neile O'Neile, bart., and Rose, Mary, Elizabeth, and Ann, her daughters, of the forfeited estate in Ireland of Sir Neile O'Neile, for a term of 41 years. (Treas. Cal. xiv., 238.) [S.O. 1. 14. pp. 121–22.]
	The same, to order payment to Edward Wigg of £320 13s. 3d., in satisfaction of a debt assigned to him. (Treas. Cal. xiv., 239.) [S.O. 1. 14. pp. 122–3.]
Jan. 12. Kensington.	The king to the lords of the Treasury of Scotland. We understand that the funds given for maintaining our forces [of Scotland], which fall due before Lammas next, are not sufficient for subsisting our forces for that time and paying the precepts for clearings which you have already drawn, amounting to £10,822. It is our pleasure therefore, that, before paying the precepts, you reserve sufficient funds for subsistence; and, we being desirous that as soon as possible the precepts be paid, you are to endeavour to find commissaries, who will engage to advance what is necessary; but, before concluding any bargain with them, you are to acquaint us with the terms they propose. If commissaries cannot be found, you are to try if persons can be got who will advance the sum contained in the precepts, for a certain allowance and getting assignments for their relief upon the funds which remain over and above paying the subsistence. In this case also you are to let us know what is demanded. You are to take care in all payments, whether of subsistence or clearings, that all our forces be kept upon an equal foot, without preference; except the regiment of Fort William, which is to have full pay conform to our former orders.
	We have granted a new commission for auditing the Treasury accounts preceding January 1st, 1697; and, it being necessary that these accounts be fitted and cleared, we expect that you will with diligence prepare them for the auditors, and cause all legal diligence be used for bringing in the balances.
	We have also considered what you represent in your letter to our Secretary, and we think that keeping up the fortifications of the Bass is unnecessary, the fortification being of no use for the security of the kingdom. We find no reason for altering our former orders given to our Privy Council for demolishing thereof.
	We approve of what you paid to Mr. James Southerland for repairing our gardens at our palace of Holyrood House, and we have upon your recommendation settled upon him £50 per annum.
	We approve what you have given for the use of the poor in these years of scarcity more than the settled allowance. But in time coming you are to let us know what you think needful for this end, that we may give the necessary orders. [S.P. 57. 17. pp. 80–1.]
Jan. 12. Kensington.	Royal warrant to the Treasury of Scotland, reciting that the king appointed Mr. Robert Pringle, under-secretary for Scotland, to attend him during his absence from Britain "this last summer," for the despatch of such affairs as might relate to Scotland, and ordering that £300 be paid to him on that account. [Ibid.]
	The same, for paying £50 to Mr. Robert Murray, [ibid. p. 82]; and a yearly allowance of £10 to Margaret Calby, widow of Robert Calby, sometime master-gunner in Edinburgh Castle. [Ibid. p. 83.]
	The same, reciting that Mr. James Southerland has been at great pains in setting up a phisick garden at Edinburgh, and that he has for some time taught with good success the knowledge of plants, and has brought into good order the gardens about Holyrood House; that the king is willing in consideration thereof and for his further encouragement to bestow upon him a mark of favour: and ordering that a pension of £50 be paid to him. [Ibid. pp. 83–4.]
	The same, for the appointment of Mr. James Haddo, minister at Cowper of Fife, to be second master and professor of divinity in the new college of St. Andrews. [Ibid. p. 85.]
	The same, for the appointment of Sir Walter Seaton, advocate, to be clerk of the commissariot of Edinburgh, in the place of Sir Patrick Aikenhead, deceased. [Ibid. p. 86.]
	Royal warrant, ratifying to George Paton, of Grandom, his right to the office of procurator-fiscal of the commissariot of Aberdeen, and appointing him and — Paton, his son, and the longest liver of them, to be conjunct procurators-fiscals of the same. [Ibid. pp. 87–8.]
	Royal warrant, reciting that the Letter Post Office in Scotland is of late much improven, and a considerable revenue is yearly returned into the Exchequer by the tacksmen to whom it is now let, from which little or nothing formerly arose: by right management it will unquestionably increase: the settling of a constant clerk therein, which has never yet been in use, for taking care thereof, will conduce to the benefit: John Richardson presently officiates:
	the king appoints John Richardson to be clerk to the said Letter Post Office [in the margin at Edinburgh] with all profits, privileges, and advantages that may arise thereby, with a yearly salary of £25, to be paid by the Exchequer or by the subsequent tacksmen of the office; to commence after the expiration of the tack of the Letter Post Office now set to George Clerk, elder, and John Murray, merchants in Edinburgh. [Ibid. pp. 89–90.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a gift of the office of sheriff principal of the sheriffdom of Kinross to the earl of Morton. [Ibid. p. 91.]
	Docquet of the warrant appointing William Ross of Easter Fairn to be commissary of the commissariot of Ross, vacant through the decease of Alexander Graham of Drynie, and through the non-residence of David Fearn, his conjunct. [Ibid. pp. 91–2.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a letter of remission under the great seal of Scotland in favour of Elizabeth Ker, relict of the deceased Christopher Irving, doctor of medicine, of the crime of adultery committed by her with the said Christopher, and cohabitation with him before the dissolution of his first marriage. "These also contain a renunciation " of the escheat of all her goods, reserving to Dr. Christopher Irving, of Castle Irving in Ireland, any right he may have. [Ibid. p. 92.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a charter to Sir John Shaw of Greenock, knt. and bart., his heirs or assigns, of the lands and old barony of Sawchie, and of the lands of Bowquhairn within the sheriffdom of Clackmannan; and of the lands of Gardinkier within the regality of Dunfermline; upon the resignation of Sir John Shaw: and containing a novo damus and a new erection of the same in a barony of Sawchie: to be holden of his Majesty the said lands of Gardinkier in few for 4 pounds scots yearly, and the teynds in blench: and the king changes the ward, relief, and non-entry of the said lands and old barony of Sawchie, and the marriage of the heirs, to the taxt duties to be filled up. [Ibid. p. 93.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a charter to Sir James Scowgall, of Whitehill, one of the senators of the College of Justice, of the town and lands of Nather-boddom with the piece of land called The Bass, the towns and lands of Over-boddom with the miln, with the teynds, parsonage and vicarage, great and small, of the same: as also a novo damus, with change of holding from simple ward to taxt ward, for payment of the taxt duties to be filled up. [Ibid. pp. 93–4.]
Jan. 12. Kensington.	Docquet of the warrant for a charter to Sir Robert Monro of Foulis, and the heirs male of his body, which failing to his heirs male whatsoever, which failing to his heirs female whatsoever, and to the heirs male of their body bearing the sirname and arms of Monro, heretably and irredeemably, of the lands and estate of Foulis, within the earldom and sheriffdom of Ross: proceeding upon the resignation of the deceased Sir John Monro of Foulis, his father: these also contain a novo damus, with a new erection of the lands in a barony called the barony of Foulis, an erection of the town of Easter Fowlis in a burgh of barony: giving to the inhabitants the privilege of merchandise and holding weekly mercats and other privileges belonging to burghs of barony: to be holden of his Majesty in free barony, with change of holding to taxt ward: and to be holden the lands of meikle and little Cleynes Kilwarne, miln of Catwell, and lands of Drummond, of his Majesty in few. [S.P. 57. 17. p. 94.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a charter from the king, "for yourself and as prince and stuard of Scotland," in favour of Mr. John Fergusson of Barclonachan, advocate, in tail male, which failing to his other heirs or assigns, of the lands of Barclonachan, Blair Knockinglish, with the tower, fortalice, and pertinents: the lands of Dalwyne comprehending the lands of Dalwyne Awchengawie Danglie and Barliefan, and the lands of Auldcraigoch Monuteoch [?], Donnan, Neither Craige Overcraige and Gass, with the teynds, parsonage and vicarage, multure and sequels of the same: the lands of Over and Nather Auchensoule, Brockloch, and Carnukinge: the lands of Kilgrummie: the lands of Mochriemore and Barmareloch: the lands of Mackroriestoun: the lands of Auchengairn: the lands of Crockbae Dalduff, and the lands of Burnfoot, with the teynds parsonage and vicarage great and small: and sick like giving [etc.] to Mr. John Fergusson and Jean Whiteford his spouse and the longest liver in conjunct fee and liferent, for the said Jean Whiteford her liferent use alennarly, [in tail male, which failing his other heirs or assigns], all the lands of Auchenwine Fordhouse Mackennethstoun, Tornbrock Burncrucks Capinoch [?] and the lands of Glensyde alias Smithstoun: proceeding upon Mr. John Fergusson his own resignation and upon adjudications: with a new gift of the lands and an erection of the same into a barony, to be called the barony of Blairchonachan: these also contain a ratification of a contract between Mr. Quinton Mackilvaine and John Mackilvaine elder and younger of Gribbit and Mr. John Cockburn, sheriff clerk of Air, and a disposition thereof by him to Mr. John Fergusson, with the precepts of sasine, in favour of Mr. John Cockburn and Mr. John Fergusson: to be holden of his Majesty, with a change of holding to taxt ward. [Ibid. pp. 95–6.]
Jan. 12. Dublin Castle.	Lord Galway to Mr. Vernon. At last Mr. Stones, and the seven Bills which you returned to us, arrived on the 10th. All these Bills have been sent to the two Houses, and to-day we are sending a message to the House of Commons to tell them not to expect any more; also to let them know that the king wishes the session to terminate, and that it cannot continue beyond the end of next week, viz.: the 20th or the day after. I hope everything will be finished by then.
	The Bill to regulate the quartering of soldiers was rejected yesterday, as I expected. We have reason to think that the Bill imposing duties on the woollen manufactures will pass; the Land Tax Bill will not be opposed: the tobacco duty Bill will be opposed, because of the barracks, but I am sure we shall overcome the opposition. The linen manufacture Bill is in great danger; but I have hopes.
	The Lords yesterday rejected the Bill for giving equity against the king. Walcot's case will drop; he is at liberty, and the Lords are conscious of their mistake.
	If we could induce the Society (fn. 2) to be moderate I believe we might come to some arrangement, and perhaps this unhappy business might be laid to rest if the English lords received no petition against the proceedings of our lords. I fear our Chancellor is not much in favour with the Society.
	I thank you for the trouble you have taken to enlighten me about Floid's pretensions. I no longer know what to do with these people. The man whom you promised me has arrived; we are to see him to-morrow, and we shall do our best to discharge the obligations resulting from your recommendation.
	[P.S.] It seems to me that our ideas about the paper office, which we think it would be in the public interest to establish, have been misunderstood. We do not mean that any letter from the king or his ministers should be left there; but merely papers which are and must be public, orders which we receive as to payments, pardons, or other matters which can never be kept secret and are entered in the books of the secretariat, which cannot be found when there is a change of government. French, 3½ pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 24–25.]
Jan. 12. Kensington.	Licence: reciting that the king had constituted Charles Cotterell, esq., assistant master of the ceremonies, and thought fit for his improvement to give him leave to travel abroad for three years: and giving him leave accordingly. [S.P. 44. 347. p. 382.]
	Licence to Sir Francis Charleton, bart., high sheriff of Salop, to live out of the county. [S.P. 44. 163. p. 120.]
Jan. 13. Whitehall.	J. Ellis to lord ambassador Williamson. I have received your excellency's of 13 and 16 inst., N.S., which came in together. The Parliament has done little to-day, and there seems but little for them to do, besides perfecting their disbanding Bill, which they are very earnest upon, and will hear no reasoning against, and finding money to pay the soldiers. Some would fain be picking holes in the coats of the lords of the Treasury, but they cannot tell what to lay hold of, no more than others can, who have as much good will for the earl of Orford.
	Mr. Hill's despatches for Lorraine are ready, and a yacht is to carry him to Rotterdam.
	[P.S.] The enclosed for the duke of Grafton's governor, being, I am assured, of great concern to his grace. Endorsed, R. Jan. 18–28. 1699. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 300–301.]
	Ja. Vernon to the same. I have your letters of the 13 and 16 inst., N.S., which have been laid before his Majesty, who has received from the Pensioner the accounts which you mention, whereupon his Majesty would have you proceed on the project prepared by the Pensioner, and adjust it into a treaty, as well of a nearer alliance between the two Crowns and the States as for the better securing of the quiet of Europe.
	I suppose you are sufficiently empowered for this negotiation by the commission formerly sent you to treat with Monsr. Lilierode and the deputies of the States. If any further powers are wanting you will please to intimate it.
	His Majesty thinks there ought to be no difficulty in complying with what the Swedes are like to insist on, that the charge of the forces they raise for the common defence shall be borne by his Majesty and the States, during the time that their service is required.
	I am able to say nothing of the Treaty in 1664–5, having no copy of it. I suppose it was a project only, framed at that time, which was never perfected into a treaty; for in any question we have had with the Swedish ministers we have had no recourse but to the Treaty of 1661. Your excellency, who has them both, will best observe how they differ, and what is to be found, both in the one and the other, that may most conduce to the end now aimed at.
	As to a treaty of commerce, his Majesty intends it shall be managed by Mr. Robinson, who is well skilled in the trade between England and Sweden, and has made projects for that purpose which have been considered by the Council of Trade, and they have made such additions as they judged necessary. These will be sent to Mr. Robinson, with powers to begin and conclude this treaty. I wish he meet with no obstruction from preliminary demands of the Swedes, who pretend to satisfaction for the interruptions of their commerce and the taking some of their ships during the war.
	I shall get the other commission despatched, your excellency wrote about, as soon as I can have an opportunity to attend the Lord Chancellor.
	I had a letter from the Dutch ambassador by the last post concerning the two ships seized on the coast of Kent, that had some packs of wool on board, which they took in at Rotterdam. The French ambassador had before put in a memorial on behalf of the said ships, which he says were belonging to Frenchmen. Upon enquiry I find that the seizure was made by one Edwards, who is employed under certain commissioners authorised by Act of Parliament to prevent the exportation of wool, Sir Harry Goodrich being one of them. I spoke to him about it, who tells me that it is the opinion of Mr. Dod, an eminent practiser in the Court of Exchequer, as also of my Lord Chief Baron, that this is a justifiable seizure, if the wool appears, as it does in this case, to be of English growth, even though it be allowed to have been bought in Holland, and whatever way it comes into our ports, it is their duty to hinder the exporting it. If this be the meaning of the law I must confess I do not understand the reason of it. I rather thought that what was bought in a foreign market and accidentally comes into our ports, only to avoid the dangers of the sea, without any intention of unlading here, ought not to be strictly enquired into or debarred of their liberty to pursue their voyage. However, if this be a matter in question, the law must decide it, and I shall hope it will not be unfavorable to friends that put themselves under our shelter.
	The French ambassador demanding either that the whole ship with her lading be released or that caution be given for such part as is questionable, they have consented to the latter, and have given directions accordingly. I have made an answer to the ambassador, without repeating particulars, for which I refer him to your excellency, as far as you shall think fit to satisfy him in what has passed.
	We go on with our Bill of disbanding. It was voted in the committee on Wednesday that, towards the Supply, the sum of £800,000 be granted to his Majesty for disbanding the army and other public occasions, that sum being more than sufficient for paying off what is to be disbanded.
	This was reported yesterday and readily agreed to. A vote of credit was then resolved on for taking up this money at interest which was to be added to the Bill, and the committee was empowered to receive a clause to that effect. The committee was to have sat to-day, but that the time was taken up with two reports from the committee of privileges. It is only put off therefore till to-morrow. Endorsed, R. 18–28. 98–9. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 302–303.]
	Newsletter to the same. Endorsed, R. Jan. 18–28. 1699. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 99–100.]
	Ja. Vernon to Mr. Recorder. His Majesty having been moved on behalf of Mr. Richard French, who is to be tried for killing Mr. Coote, commands that, if Mr. French be found guilty of manslaughter, the burning in the hand be respited till he be informed of the case, which you will signify to the judge. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 581.]
Jan. 14. Whitehall.	The same to Mr. Macky. You will take particular notice of what passengers, strangers, come from beyond sea; and if you find an Italian that answers the enclosed description you are to apprehend him and all those that belong to him. [Ibid. p. 582.]
	The same to the mayor of Rye. I have yours of 12th inst. about young Bromfield. He was lately in Newgate, accused of being a highwayman, and how he got off I do not know. He is a man of very loose reputation.
	If you find an Italian that answers this description, stop him; an Italian gentleman, a lusty, tall, fat man: if he wears his own hair, as he lately did, it is rather red than light coloured, but it is not certain whether he has a perruque. He has six persons at least in his company, one is his son. [Ibid. pp. 582–3.]
Jan. 14. Kensington.	Licence to John Cale, esq., high sheriff of Montgomery, to live out of the county. [S.P. 44. 163. p. 120.]
Jan. 14. Dorchester.	Thomas Seward to Mr. Phillip Taylor, merchant, M.P. Thursday last we had melancholy news from St. Malo. The 5th ult. Capt. Mansell was boarded by 11 men, who came out in a shalloop, supposed to be all or most Irish, and so murdered by them, and carried his vessel away. Standing to the westward they reached something further than Conquett, where, the wind coming from the east to the south and blowing hard, they stood up Channel again, and put into Roscov, about 3 leagues from Morlaix, where they disposed of good part of the cargo, and at very low rates (so that the persons that bought them must know them to be stolen), and after having received their money quarrelled about the dividend; and, the story goeth, six of the eleven were killed, and the rest are fled into the country, leaving the vessel and part of the goods on board. Mr. Drake has sent to my brother in Morlaix to reclaim ship and goods, and to prosecute those rogues that bought our goods. You should go with some man of interest to the French ambassador and complain. If you could get the ambassador's secretary to write to the judges of the Admiralty at Morlaix, it would much advance our business. [S.P. 42. 5. No. 81.]
	Copy of the above letter. [Ibid. No. 80.]
Jan. 15. Kensington.	Commission to John Fernham, gent., to be cornet of Lt.-Col. Killigrew's troop in the royal regiment of dragoons commanded by Lord Raby. [S.P. 44. 167. p. 364.]
Jan. 16. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Admiralty [transmitting a request of the earl of Macclesfield]. The king would have you consider what instructions may be given to Capt. Hunter, designed to command H.M.S. Dolphin in the discovery of a considerable wreck in the West Indies.
	His Majesty likewise commands me to send you the enclosed complaint delivered by the French ambassador against Capt. Polton, for having seized the commander of a French vessel at Leghorn, upon a dispute about an English trumpeter whom the French commander had entertained in his service.
	The French ambassador at the same time acquainted his Majesty that his master had ordered his ships of war not to visit or molest our ships upon pretence of searching for Frenchmen, and would know whether his Majesty would give the like orders. You will report your opinion.
	In answer to your enquiry, by Mr. Burchet, whether the squadron bound for the East Indies should delay sailing in expectation of the commissioners' arrival, his Majesty thinks there will be no occasion for their staying; the commissioners, having been some days ago despatched at the Treasury, are gone to Portsmouth, and it is supposed they are now on board.
	[Annexed.] (The earl of Macclesfield's request, dated Jan. 13, 1698–9) His Majesty having, at the earl's request, and in consideration of one-fifth of the treasure that shall be recovered, ordered a fifth-rate (the Dolphin now at Spithead ready to sail) for the West Indies, to take up a considerable wreck there, under Capt. Hunter, who has made affidavit of his certain knowledge of the wreck and of credible information of other wrecks in those parts, and the Admiralty desiring his Majesty's particular directions, the earl prays that reasonable instructions may be given for the effectual prosecution of the voyage. [S.P. 44. 204. pp. 199– 200.]
	The same to the Recorder of London. Mr. Docwra, an ensign of the Guards, having been tried for the death of Mr. Coote and convicted of manslaughter only, his Majesty would have the execution of the sentence forborne till informed of the circumstances. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 583.]
	The same to the Commissioners of Customs. I send you a translated memorial of the French ambassador's, concerning a French ship laden with wine, brandy, etc., which lately run on shore near Plymouth.
	Memorial of Maurice Maison Blanche, master and concerned in the goods laden on a ship at Brest, 19 Dec. last, for Ireland, run on shore at Bigbery Bay, near Plymouth. The Customs officers directed the goods to be warehoused and claimed an extravagant sum after they had carried away in the night wine and brandy by pitchers full, and the people had taken part of his goods. The petitioner asks that the officers send him back his goods, he paying for their pains, and that he may have leave to sell to the value of £100, paying moderate customs, to discharge what he has borrowed in England to refit. Dartmouth officers made similar claims. [S.P. 44. 99. pp. 583–4.]
Jan. 17. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. I have your letter of the 20th inst. and laid it before his Majesty, but, his pleasure having been already signified in relation to the terms upon which there is any prospect that a treaty can be concluded with Sweden, his Majesty has only directed further that you proceed upon the project formed in concert with the Pensioner.
	I thought there would be no new power necessary in this case; and, for the other matter, I shall attend the Lord Chancellor in a day or two and get it despatched.
	The new East India Company having petitioned his Majesty for his interposition towards procuring the release of 20 chests of silver that have been seized at Rotterdam and are threatened with a confiscation, his Majesty commands me to send their petition to you, that you give the Company all the assistance you can, and use your utmost endeavours to prevent the damage that some interested men would bring upon them for their own private advantage, which ought so much the more to be taken care of as this is a very public and almost a national concern.
	If the first instance of severity in this kind light upon this Company, so as to subject them to a forfeiture in a singular and extraordinary manner, it will be thought here to have a mixture of jealousy and animosity against the establishment of this Company and therefore the extremity of the law is to be made use of for the suppressing it in its infancy.
	Mr. Clifford, their agent, will attend you and give you a more particular information of their case, and in what manner your protection will be of most use to them, and I hope the Pensioner will be easy in it, since I understand his Majesty will make some mention of it to him. If this be a very doubtful case, as it is represented, and that the law can hardly be strained for a condemnation, methinks this should be a favorable opportunity to shew the friendship and equity of that government by stopping the prosecution.
	I acquainted you, last post, how far we had then proceeded in relation to the two ships that were stopped on the coast of Kent, having wool on board. His Majesty has since given these further directions, that the judge of the Admiralty, Mr. SolicitorGeneral, and myself, should have a meeting with Sir Harry Goodrich and his commissioners to consider this case; and, if it be possible, I will get the prosecution dropped, and that the occasions for future complaints on this account be removed. But I hinted to the Dutch ambassador with how much concern we daily hear of the great trade driven with our wool at Rotterdam, which is brought to them from Scotland, Ireland and other parts. We have pretty well hindered the French from having it immediately from hence, but if they can be supplied with the same wool by the way of Holland I see no remedy, but they will carry on their manufactures as well to the prejudice of the Dutch as of us.
	We go on here with our Bill of disbanding. It was finished in the committee on Saturday, the clause being added for taking up the £800,000, at 7% interest, and repaying it out of the first fonds. The Bill was reported yesterday, and I suppose will be brought in engrossed to-morrow.
	Some of the members of the new East India Company have been with me, to let me know that the treating them favorably in this particular would be but the return of a kindness shewn to the Dutch in as considerable a case, where they had more notoriously offended against our Palladium, the Plantation Act, and yet the prosecution was let fall by his Majesty's directions. I send you the case in their own words, and do not doubt but you will improve it for their relief.
	[P.S.] The Council of Trade have written to me to be informed in what manner the States have settled commerce with France. I can tell them no more than what the prints mention, that it is concluded. I believe you may procure a copy of their treaty; and, if an account could be had what were the chief points in question, and by what means the difficulties were removed, it might be of use to us here on the like or other occasions.
	You will be pleased to send the enclosed to the Dutch ambassador. Endorsed, R. 3–13. 1699. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 304–305.]
	Newsletter to the same. On Friday last a General Court was held of the old East India Company, where they agreed to unite with the new East India Company, provided they can do it upon reasonable terms. This was opposed by some of the principal of the committee, but carried in the General Court by a great majority.
	Mr. Hill, envoy extraordinary at Brussels, intends to leave today to return thither. He is appointed by his Majesty to compliment the duke and duchess of Lorraine upon their marriage. He will repair to their Court with all expedition, but will make a very short stay there.
	On Saturday the Commons in a committee went through the Bill for disbanding the Army, and ordered it to be reported on Monday. A clause was brought in, after some debate, that whosoever should advance money towards raising the £800,000 shall receive 7% interest. Another clause was brought in, which is, that in case any of the foreign troops, who are to be sent home, should be detained by contrary winds beyond the time prefixed, they shall not incur the penalty of the Act, which is a Prœmunire.
	Yesterday in the House of Commons the Bill to prohibit the distilling of spirits from corn was read a 2nd time, and, divers persons having presented petitions against the Bill, there arose a debate whether they should be heard by their counsel, which was adjourned. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 105–106.]
Jan. 17.	Tho. Freke to Secretary Vernon. In obedience to your commands I enclose copies of the letters relating to the murder of Capt. Mansel, an alderman of Weymouth, and seizure of his ship, relying on your assurance of doing what is best for the owners my masters. Endorsed, Mr. Freake, 17 Jan. 98., about a Weymouth man murdered by pirates.
	Enclosing [copy of] a letter, dated Weymouth, Jan. 14, 1698, from Lod. Jackson to Philip Taylor, esq., M.P., London. Your lady being a little indisposed and having little of moment to write to you, hath laid her commands on me to acquaint you of what is come to hand relating to Captain Mansell by letters from St. Maloes by the way of Pool. The vessel and goods, if not timely looked after, may be seized for the king. The parties concerned in St. Maloes have notice thereof [and have] promised to preserve what may be. However, it may be advisable that you present a memorial to the French ambassador. [Ibid. ff. 101–104.]
Jan. 17. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Attorney-General. The Lords Justices of Ireland desire to know why a clause was left out of the Bill sent thither for the encouragement of the linen manufacture. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 585.]
	The same to the Commissioners of Trade. I have your letter of this day, and as to the agreement of matters relating to trade between the States General and France I know nothing further than what we have by the ordinary news from Paris, and have no particulars; but I will write to his Majesty's ministers there, and at The Hague, to be informed.
	The instructions to the governors of the plantations concerning trade, now preparing in my office, will soon be despatched for his Majesty's signature. [Ibid. p. 586.]
	The same to the Admiralty. The yacht William and Mary, going to Holland with Mr. Hill, is to bring the Dutch ambassador back. [S.P. 44. 204. f. 201.]
Jan. 17. Kensington.	Commission to Mr. Latimer Ridley, to be surgeon to the garrison of Berwick upon Tweed. [S.P. 44. 167, p. 365.]
Jan. 18.	Copy, dated Jan. 18, 1698[–9], of a resolution of the commissioners for preventing the exportation of wool, who "having this day met, the king's Solicitor-General and Mr. Cowper, the king's counsel of the law, and Sir Charles Hedges, judge of the Admiralty Court, being present and consulted, " are of opinion that the two French ships detained by Capt. John Edwards be discharged with all their loading except the wool, which being left in specie no caution at all ought to be given, but to be left to their discretion whether they will try the title at law or no. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 107– 108.]
	Copy of the petition, undated, addressed to the Commissioners of the Treasury, of Peter Trouve, master of the ship or dogger Unique of Rouen, shewing that his ship had been detained some months, as also 29 bales of wool, at Yarmouth, upon the seizure of Thomas Clarke, officer there: that his Majesty's counsel had ordered the ship and wool to be restored, and praying for a warrant for a noli prosequi. [Ibid. ff. 109–110.]
	[Copies of documents relating to the case of the Unique of Rouen.] Peter Trouve, master of the Unique of Rouen, left in November last for Scotland, as there was free trade in wool between that kingdom and France. He loaded his ship with Scottish wool at Leith, and paid all dues, as appears by documents annexed. He sailed at the beginning of January, and entered Yarmouth on Jan. 5 to buy an anchor. There the customs officers seized the ship and unloaded the cargo. They released the ship, and retained the goods on the pretext that it was English wool, though it was really Scottish, as proved by what follows [viz.]:
	(1) Certificate, or cocket, dated at Leith, 23 Dec. 1698.
	(2) Receipt, dated Leith, 22 Dec. 1698, and (Nos. 3–6) similar documents. French. [S.P. 42. 5. No. 82.]
Jan. 18. Kensington.	Warrant to the Lords Justices of Ireland, to allow to the Receiver General £2,258 19s. 10¼d. overpaid on military contingencies from March 25, 1697, to June 24, 1698, with an account appended. (Treas. Cal. xiv., 245.) [S.O. 1. 14. pp. 123–6.]
	The same, for English subsistence to be allowed to the regiment of the late Col. George Villiers. (Treas. Cal. xiv. 245.) [S.O. 1. 14. pp. 127–8.]
Jan. 19. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to Tho. Pownell, esq., of Lincoln. I have your letter of 16th inst., concerning one Fitzgerald, who is committed to your county gaol. I find that the privy seal which you sent me for his staying in England is not counterfeit. He was at the beginning of the rebellion in Ireland in King James's army. But, upon his Majesty's proclamation there in [16]91, he quitted that service, and brought over with him part of his troop. This having been represented, the king granted him, as well as to others under the same circumstances, a licence to stay here; but I know not whether this be the same Fitzgerald, and am a stranger to his behaviour since, or what he has done to bring himself under the censure of the law. [S.P. 44. 99. pp. 586–7.]
	The king approves of the hon. Thomas Windsor, esq., to be deputy lieutenant of the county of Worcester. [S.P. 44. 167. p. 364.]
Jan. 19. Kensington.	Licences to Thomas Langham, esq., high sheriff of Northamptonshire, and to George Savile, esq., high sheriff of Derbyshire, to live out of the county. [S.P. 44. 163. p. 121.]
Jan. 20. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. I have your letter of the 23 [?] inst., N.S., and have laid it before his Majesty, but I have no further directions in relation to the negotiation with Monsr. de Lilierode than what I have already sent you, and I suppose they will be thought sufficient to proceed in that matter.
	I now send you by the post the commission you wrote for; you will provide a silver box for the seal, engraven with the king's arms, the charge whereof will be allowed in your bill of extraordinaries.
	I spoke both to the archbishop of Canterbury and the bishop of London about the poor refugees that are to remove out of Switzerland. The king has likewise a letter from the States General in their behalf. His Majesty would gladly do what may be thought fit for their relief, and I hope my lord of Canterbury and lord of London will propose the methods they judge the most proper.
	The States have likewise written to his Majesty concerning the two ships seized on the coast of Kent. I have had a meeting upon that case with Sir Harry Goodrich, two of the king's counsel, and Sir Charles Hedges. They considered the Acts against exporting of wool, and are of opinion that, since wool shipped to be exported is declared liable to a forfeiture without any limitation or restriction, there seems a justifiable ground for this seizure; and, the officer insisting on his share of the benefit of it, the law only can determine whether he be entitled to it; and they see no way how the prosecution can be discharged; but they were of opinion that the ships and the rest of the merchandise ought immediately to be released, and the wool only to remain here in the king's custody till the cause be over, and to be restored to the owner as it shall be determined on his side. The commissioners, under whose authority the seizure was made, have sent their directions accordingly, and I shall endeavour to make the Lord Chief Baron, who is to try this cause, as easy as may be in the decision of it.
	For my own part I am not well satisfied that we should go about to subject foreigners, who come hither only for shelter, to the visitation and penalties that may be fit to be imposed on ourselves. But we make both our treaties and our Acts of Parliament without enough considering how they square one with another; and, when they happen to clash, all that is to be done is to take the best care we can to make an accommodation in the best manner it can be procured; and, where a government labours that sincerely, the accidental trouble given to some particular persons ought to be candidly interpreted.
	The Bill for disbanding the army passed the House of Commons on Wednesday, but it was more argued against than it had been any time before, several country gentlemen of great estates, such as Sir William Blackett and Mr. Norton, coming in voluntarily, and without any concert, to declare their dislike of so small a number. We lost it upon the division by too great a majority, but need not be ashamed of the attempt, since at the last Act, when a Bill was gone so far, 154 appeared against it, and they were 221. I believe it will yet have some good effect, and bring people hereafter to make a further provision for our safety. The marines will at least be secured by it, which were threatened before; many of those who went out for the Bill declaring they are willing to make this addition.
	The Bill was carried up to the Lords yesterday. People's eyes are now turned that way, to see what they will do, and questions are already moved whether it be a money Bill, so as to exclude the Lords from making alterations in it, and what would be the consequences of their rejecting it. But that looks like a remedy worse than the disease. I rather hope we shall unite in considering what is for the public good than come to a misunderstanding on this or any other account.
	I believe you will see Mr. Hill who is lately gone from hence. You will therefore let him have the enclosed which is of consequence. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8–18. 99. Sir James Vernon. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 111–112.]
Jan. 20. Whitehall.	The same to Mr. Hill, sending "credentials from the prince and princess." The disbanding Bill was "stoutlier opposed than ever I expected it would [be]; the country gentlemen of their own free motion declared their dislike of so small a number, and did it with a better grace and more authority for not having been spoke to about it." Notwithstanding the majority in favour of the Bill, "we have this advantage that people begin to think of their danger, and then it is not to be doubted but one time or one way or another they will provide against it. Copy. [Ibid. ff. 124–125.]
	J. Ellis to lord ambassador Williamson. Having nothing else to trouble your excellency with I take the liberty to do it with a request that, since you are chosen at Thetford as well as Rochester, you will please to do me the honour to put me up at Thetford, if you are not already engaged. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 306–307.]
	Newsletter to the same. Sir William Norris, ambassador to the Great Mogul, is still at Portsmouth, waiting for a fair wind.
	Letters from Dublin of the 14th inst., give an account that the Bills for raising £120,000 on land and for laying an additional duty on the woollen manufacture, had been reported in the House of Commons. On the Monday following the House was to go into a grand committee upon the Bills for completing the Supply, building barracks, and encouraging the linen manufacture, and it was believed that in four or five days an end would be put to the sessions, the Lords Justices having on the 12th inst., by a message to the Commons, recommended the speedy despatch of the business, and acquainted them that they expected no more Bills from England.
	These letters add that the Bishop of Connor is dead and, it was thought, would be succeeded by Dean Smith. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8–18. 99. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 113–114.]
Jan. 20. Whitehall.	R. Yard to the same. The bill for disbanding the forces was read a third time in the House of Commons last Wednesday, and thereupon a debate arose about passing it, which lasted several hours, with a great deal of warmth. All was said on both sides the subject was capable of. Several country gentlemen of great estates spoke against the Bill, as Sir William Blackett, Col. Norton, Sir John Mainwaring, Sir John Philips and others; but the tide ran too strong on the other side. Mr. Harley, Sir Christ. Musgrave, Sir Edward Seymour, Lord Hartington, Mr. Pelham, etc., were for the Bill, and they carried it by a majority of 67, and so the Bill is carried up to the House of Lords, where I suppose 'twill be debated as in the House of Commons; but in conclusion I believe they will pass it, because of the consequence their rejecting it may have. For as to their making any alteration in it, the Commons will not allow it, being made a money Bill by the House of credit. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8th, 99. [Ibid. ff. 115– 116.]
	J. Ellis to the same. Many are of opinion, at this time, that it [the disbanding Bill] will be flung out [in the House of Lords].
	The mob is risen in some part of Lincolnshire and has demolished the enclosures of the fens, and done, it is said, £100,000 damage. The sheriff of the county has orders from the Council to raise the posse, to oppose and quite them.
	I am told Lord Paston is chosen at Thetford. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8th, 1699. [Ibid. ff. 117–118.]
Jan. (?) 20.	Monsr. de Peray to [the same]. Between 10 and 11 o'cl. last night I was requested to give your excellency notice that the Pope has detailed (détaché) four or five hundred wretches to go to England to disturb the nation and perhaps worse. It is hoped that you will pay attention and take the necessary action.
	Père Mabillon, one of the foremost Roman Catholic preachers in France, has fled in order to proclaim the truth, and to go to England.
	Your excellency will please inform me when you are well enough to grant an audience. French. Endorsed, 20 Jan. [?] 98–9. M. de Peray. [Ibid. f. 119.]
Jan. 20. Custom House London.	Mr. Sansom to John Ellis, at Mr. Secretary Vernon's office, enclosing copy of a report, by the commissioners of Customs to the lords of the Treasury, upon the Dutch ambassador's memorial relating to silk, supposed to be Indian, imported from Holland.
	[Enclosure.] Copy of the report, shewing that the silk, entered as of the manufacture of Holland, appeared to be of the fabric of India or China, called atlas or cuttanees. The commissioners had stopped the silk, to hinder the dangerous innovation of importing the fabrics of India or China under colour of Dutch manufactures. [Ibid. ff. 120–123.]
Jan. 20. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to Mr. Pownell. Since writing to you I have a letter from Col. Fitzgerald, wherein he says he has something very material to communicate to me. The messenger, who brings you this, has a warrant to receive him. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 587.]
Jan. 21. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the French ambassador, transmitting "the extract from the letter giving an account of the piracy about which I spoke to you by his Majesty's orders"; and asking for justice and the exemplary punishment of the offenders.
	[Enclosure.] An extract from a letter from Weymouth, dated Jan. 14, 1698–9. French. [Ibid. pp. 588–9.]
Jan. 21. Kensington.	Warrant for the appointment of Edwd. Smith, D.D., Dean of St. Patrick's in Dublin, to the united bishoprics of Downe and Connor in Ulster, at the king's disposal by the death of Dr. Edward Walkinton. [S.O. 1. 14. p. 127.]
Jan. 22. The Hague.	A life certificate for François Hardy, French gentleman refugié, residing at The Hague, recommended by Monsieur Amyraut. [S.P. 44. 386. p. 1b.]
Jan. 23. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Treasury. His Majesty has directed me to demand £750 to make good some payments on account of secret service, which he has given orders for. Also £600 will have to be advanced to three messengers who have been employed in carrying his Majesty's pacquets between Calais and Paris. They must have £200 each upon account, viz.: Henry Allen, Charles Kenge, and Peter Brown, two of whom are to return home, as soon as they are enabled by the receipt of this money.
	His Majesty thinks it necessary that a convenient sum be lodged with Mr. Prior, secretary of the embassy at Paris, that he may have wherewithal to supply those employed in conveying his Majesty's pacquets. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 590.]
Jan. 23. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to Mr. Heathcote. I desire I may speak with you and Mr. Sheppard, or whom else you think fit of the members of the new Company, to-morrow, having something to impart to you by command from his Majesty. You will either find me in the House of Commons about noon, or at the office in the evening. [Ibid. p. 591.]
	Proceedings upon the petition of Mr. Wm. Pheasant, setting forth that some evil disposed persons have prosecuted him for a pretended carnal knowledge of a child not much above 9 years old; he was tried at the Old Bailey, and upon the sole evidence of the child was found guilty: he is in danger of losing his life and fortune. He prays his Majesty to hear the judge's report, and in the meantime a respite. Referred to the Lord Chief Baron. [S.P. 44. 238. p. 276.]
	Certificate that William, earl of Portland, returned from his employment as ambassador extraordinary to France on June 19, 1698. [S.P. 44. 347. p. 383.]
Jan. 24. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. I have your letters of the 27 and 30 inst., N.S. I have not yet had an opportunity to lay the latter before his Majesty. It arriving but this day, I think you will not expect any particular directions upon it.
	I am obliged to you for the treaty enclosed, which I will read over as soon as I have any leisure. In the meantime I can depend upon your care that nothing be inserted in the new project but what is proper for this conjuncture. I hope the Swedes are in earnest to proceed fairly and to conclude upon reasonable terms, but I do not well understand what Monsr. Leyoncrona meant by coming to me this morning, to let me know he had fresh directions to press the Holstein affair; that there had been articles of accommodation drawn up by the mediators, which the duke of Holstein was willing to submit to, and, the Danes refusing them, it was a proper time for the guarands to make their declaration. He further insinuated as if the Swedes must be in doubt what measures to take as to their alliances, if matters were not quieted and settled on that side, which only wanted the garants appearing for terminating those differences.
	I could only tell him that I did not know what these terms of agreement were, or whether the Danes were dissatisfied with them; but I found the Swedes and they had lately renewed their treaties, one with another, and I could not tell why they overlooked the affairs of Holstein upon such an occasion: that, if it were meant that the treaty, now under Monsr. Lilierode's care, could not well go forward but as way should be made for it by some determination in the duke's concerns, I thought Monsr. Lilierode would do well to explain himself in that matter, so that those who were to form the treaty might be possessed of all that was intended.
	I perceived his drift was that you should have directions from his Majesty to enter into these considerations, which he thought would produce the best effect if the adjustment were made at The Hague by all the parties concerned.
	I suppose it will be time enough to return him an answer when I hear from you what the Pensioner's and your thoughts are upon this proposal. At present I have only told him I would lay it before his Majesty.
	I have acquainted you with all the steps that had been made about the ships seized with wool. I have to add that the matter was considered again last Sunday at the Cabinet Council, where the letter from the States to his Majesty was read. His Majesty is very desirous to give relief in this case, and everybody thinks it highly reasonable, but there are forms to be observed which I think we are more hampered with than almost any country; but with patience I hope we shall get through this difficulty.
	By his Majesty's command I have spoke to the Lord Chief Baron and the rest of the judges of that Bench, and have informed them of the nature of this unlucky seizure, and what ill consequences it may have, if care be not taken. I think they understood it rightly, but I further intend to get Mr. Attorney to go to them, and he shall carry them a translate of the States' letter. So I hope to bring this to a good and speedy determination; but I must repeat that it is a great eyesore to us to see our wool carried from one country to another; and we think the Dutch may suffer by it in their woollen manufacture, as well as we. Particular persons will never consider this, and how far sovereigns can remedy it I can't tell.
	The Dutch ambassador, in the letter he wrote me, mentioned another thing, which was the stopping at the Custom House in May last [of] six pieces of silk, which they say were made in Holland, and our people take them to be Indian, atlas or cuttanees. If the law is to decide it, and a jury find they are Indian goods, they must be confiscated by the Act of Navigation. But, because it is doubtful and to avoid acting rigorously, the commissioners of Customs will consent they should be carried back again for Holland, without any duties to be paid. I hope this will be approved; for, the Dutch being arrived to such a skill in imitating in Indian commodities, we are upon our guard not to be imposed upon, or to let in the trade from India through Holland. If Monsr. Cleverskerk be not come away you will let him know the state of this matter.
	Though the disbanding Bill is not much liked, yet I suppose it will pass [in the Lords], since any difference between the two Houses seems the worst way towards any further provision. Endorsed, R. 8–18. 99. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 126–7.]
Jan. 24. Whitehall.	J. Ellis to the same. The House of Commons have done nothing to-day. The business appointed was the consideration of the state of the navy, but, Sir Robert Rich being so much indisposed that he could not be at the House, they not only adjourned the debate till Saturday next, but immediately adjourned themselves, without entering upon any other matters; which by some is looked upon as a signification to the Lords of their great concern for the disbanding Bill, which is now before their lordships, and was read the first time to-day. There was not much debate upon it, but it is supposed there will be more at the next reading, and yet it is generally thought it will pass, because no man can see what the effects of the rejecting it may be, the Commons being very much set upon its passing.
	The easterly winds have brought over the Danish and Brandenburgh envoys. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8–18. 99. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 310– 311.]
	Newsletter to the same. They write from Portsmouth that on Saturday last Sir Willm. Norris, ambassador to the Great Mogul, went on board the Harwich, and was to sail on Sunday night with the Anglesey, Hastings and Lizard, being the squadron commanded by Capt. Warren, designed for suppressing the pirates in the East Indies. They have orders to land in some convenient port in the Mogul's dominions, whence his excellency will proceed by land to that prince's court. Endorsed, R. Feb. 8th, 99. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 128–129.]
	Ja. Vernon to the mayor of Plymouth. I have yours of the 20th inst., concerning the two prisoners sent from Newfoundland, who are not forgotten; but the persons most concerned in the prosecution of them have not yet come to any resolution. As soon as they acquaint me with it you shall have notice how those prisoners are to be disposed of. [S.P. 44. 99. p. 591.]
Jan. 24. The Hague.	Pass to Wm. Roddel, late mate of the Elizabeth of Wapping, cast away on the coast of Sweden. [S.P. 44. 386. p. 21.]
Jan. 25. Kensington.	Warrant to the Lords Justices of Ireland for the payment of £254 to Elizabeth Lloyd, widow, out of any forfeited lands or interest in Ireland. (Treas. Cal. xiv., 254.) [S.O. 1. 14. pp. 128– 9.]
Jan. 26. Kensington.	Royal warrant to Charles, earl of Burlington. Whereas we are given to understand that our game of hare, pheasant, partridge, and other wild fowl, within the East and West Ridings of Yorkshire in and near Lansborough and Bolton Abbey, are much destroyed by poachers that use greyhounds, setting dogs, hand guns, nets, cross bows and other engines prohibited by the laws; for prevention whereof, and that our game may be kept fair for our disport and recreation at such time as we shall resort into those parts, we authorise you by yourself and your deputies to take special care of our said game in Lansborough aforesaid, in the East Riding, and Bolton Abbey, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, and within the compass of 12 miles of those places; and, finding any persons to use any greyhounds, setting dogs, hand guns, trammells, tunnells, cross bows or other unlawful engines, to seize and take the same into your custody, and to certify the names of such offenders to us or our privy council, that such further order may be taken for their punishment as shall be requisite. [S.P. 44. 347. pp. 419–20.]
	Licence to John Whitewick, high sheriff of Glamorganshire, to live out of the county. [S.P. 44. 163. p. 121.]
Jan. 27. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. I have received this afternoon your letter of 3 Feb. [N.S.].
	I thought the Dutch had made a more advantageous tariff. If ever it comes to our turn (which I see no prospect of as yet), we must not conclude on so unequal a foot, for the parliament is not like to part with the 25 p. cent. laid on French goods till they seem [sic] something like an even balance projected. The Zelander has well informed you what is to the disadvantage of the Dutch in this treaty; one can't therefore but have the curiosity to know in what particulars they have made themselves amends, so as to induce them to conclude.
	As to Parliament news, the House of Commons is like to afford but little, till they see what becomes of the Disbanding Bill in the House of Lords. They will soon be satisfied in that point, for the Bill was this day read a second time. The small debate there was about it was little more than for form's sake. Perhaps it may be endeavoured to-morrow to make some amendment in it [in committee], but I do not expect it will be stuck upon.
	[P.S.] I have given Mr. Attorney a translated copy of the letter from the States concerning the two wool ships, and he will second me in what I have said to the Lord Chief Baron upon it. If the same candour be used on that side, I hope the complaints, not only of the East India Company, but of all other traders, will be mitigated, if not removed. [S.P. 32. 11. f. 130.]
	Tho. Hopkins to the same. It's thought [the Disbanding Bill] will pass without any amendment, rather than endanger the union between the two Houses. If it does pass, I hope this compliance in the Lords will bring the Commons to a better temper than they are in at present. [S.P. 32. 11. f. 131.]
Jan. 27. Whitehall.	J. Ellis to the same. The expectations were very great what would be the effect of the Lords debates this day upon reading the Disbanding Bill the second time, which they have balkt, by recommitting it to a committee of the whole House, with very little debate, who are to sit upon it to-morrow, and it is not doubted now but it will pass with little difficulty. I do not hear that any have yet spoken against it, besides Lord Haversham, who began first, and Lord Stamford. There are others that do not like it, but they do not oppose it, because the Commons seem fond of it, and they know the worst of it, if it passes; but the rejecting of it may produce such effects as no man can see to the end of.
	The Commons have a Bill for enlarging the Russia trade, that anybody may come into the company paying £5, whereas it is now £50 entrance. Endorsed, R. Feb. 10. 99. [S.P. 32. 15. pp. 312–3.]
	R. Y[ard] to the same. Letters from Dublin of the 19th inst. give an account that there was a debate on the 18th in the committee of the whole House [of Commons] about an Address for an additional pay to be given to the soldiers, out of the money designed for finishing the barraques: but they came to no resolution. It is believed this sessions will end in a few days.
	I acquainted you that the old East India company had declared a willingness to treat with the new company in order to an accommodation. Upon which the new company have resolved that they will do what may be reasonable in order to an union, and will receive any proposals which the old company shall make, and they appointed two of their directors to communicate this to the committee of the old company.
	On Monday last, being the first day of the term, one Paul Robinson (who last summer gave false informations against divers persons, accusing them of high treason), being convicted of perjury, was sentenced to ask forgiveness of the Courts in Westminster Hall, to stand 3 times in the pillory, viz.: at Westminster Hall Gate, at Chairing Cross, and at Brentford, and to pay a fine of £100, and be imprisoned till he has paid the same.
	To-morrow we shall see what the Lords will do in the Bill about the forces; 'tis probable they will make an amendment, which the Commons will never suffer in a money Bill. Endorsed, R. Feb. 10. 1699. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 132–133.]
	Proceedings upon the petition of Nathaniel Bard, esq., setting forth that he has found out an instrument or engine to amend and level the roads and preserve the same in constant repair without any damage or charge to the subject, whereby the highways will become more safe, commodious, and pleasant than they have hitherto been. He prays for letters patent. Referred to the Attorney or Solicitor General. [S.P. 44. 238. p. 276.]
Jan. 27. Dublin Castle.	Lord Galway to Mr. Vernon. You will see, from the letter which we wrote to you last night, that our parliament has separated at last, and that it was time it did. We shall give details in our next letter.
	I am much mortified by the vote of the Commons, and I fear that your House will resent the unceremonious way in which our Commons dealt with the Linen Bill. However, if there were any hope that the English Commons would leave the matter alone, I am convinced we might establish the linen manufacture here in a short time, and to advantage, for both the soil and the people are admirably suited. But the king must help us and order some money to be spent on it.
	I hope you will take up this matter again, when affairs in England are less stormy. French, 1½ pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 26– 27.]
Jan. 29. Kensington.	Warrant for the grant of the place of prebendary of the cathedral of Worcester, void by the death of Dr. Jonathan Blagrave, to James Stillingfleet, M.A. [S.P. 44. 151. p. 28; S.P. 44. 347. p. 386; S.O. 3. 20. f. 165 v.; S.O. 8. 27. No. 1.]
Jan. 30. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to the Admiralty. The instructions for the commander of H.M.S. Dolphin, from you and those concerned in the wrecks that are to be fished up, are approved.
	As to the frigate desired by Mr. Bridger, the king will decide when your report on the representation of the Commissioners of Trade is considered in Council.
	As to what Sir Lambert Blackwell writes of the point he had gained of exempting H.M. ships from quarantine, and the opposition made to it by the Genoese, I am directed by the king to speak to the envoy of Genoa, and to write to Sir Lambert to be informed what has been observed towards the French at Leghorn and Genoa as to quarantine, that H.M. ships may be treated at least in the same manner.
	[Enclosures.] (1) Admiralty instructions, dated Jan. 21, 98–9, to Capt. Colin Hunter, commander of H.M.S. Dolphin at Spithead, proceeding to the West Indies, to take up several wrecks, described in papers left by him with Samuel Travers, esq., and other wrecks, pursuant to indentures between the parties concerned and Sir James Houblon and company, by virtue of letters patent to the duke of Schonberg and Leinster, between 12° S. and 40° N. latitude.
	(2) Instructions proposed by the gentlemen concerned. [S.P. 44. 204. pp. 201–6.]
Jan. 30. Kensington.	Royal warrant to Henry, earl of Romney, master-general of the ordnance: reciting that the king thinks fit "that such persons, whom for their good services in our several trains of artillery as well by sea as land during the late war we did by our warrant," dated 24 May last [sic] (fn. 3) incorporate "into a regimental train of artillery, or so many of them as we shall think fit to retain still in our service, should continue in the same now in time of peace in such manner and form as is most agreeable to the ancient constitution of the office of our Ordnance:"
	the warrant annuls the warrant dated 24 May last, and declares the said train to be broke and disbanded; and Lord Romney is directed to cause the allowances of pay settled by the establishment of the train to cease from the 31st inst. [S.P. 44. 167. p. 369.]
Jan. 30. Holyhead.	R. Molesworth to [J. Vernon]. Whilst I lie windbound here I have but too much leisure to use the liberty of troubling you with a letter. Your kindness to me (which never ris or fell with Court favour) is too great to be repaid only with thanks; but, if you will believe an old friend, whose sincerity has been his ruin, I have no design but to assure you of my respects.
	I stayed two nights at Althrop by the way; my lord deserves highly the character given him by his old friends, and I among the rest have great reason to say so. You were remembered there with a great deal of kindness.
	I told you that at my taking leave of his Majesty I found him in a disposition of doing something for an early appearer and great sufferer for his interests, and he promised me he would. I asked nothing, but left the time and manner to his own grace: if you, sir, when you see him in a good humour, will put in a word, 'twill confirm and hasten his intentions.
	I own Ireland will be my pis aller. I shall perfectly degenerate in that soil, tho' I could never come to bear fruit in any; but the vast, heavy charge, which grows on me every day, calls upon me now, as the necessities of old maids does upon them. Any good Lord any: I am sure of one thing, that I shall never disoblige again, if keeping out of an English House of Commons be the way to avoid so doing. 2 pp. [S.P. 63. 360. ff. 28–29.]
Jan. 31. Whitehall.	Ja. Vernon to lord ambassador Williamson. I have this evening your letter of 6 Feb. N.S. I shall take the first opportunity to lay it before his Majesty, and acquaint you with his pleasure upon the particulars proposed, which I suppose admit of no great difficulty, or otherwise your excellency, who has had more leisure, would have remarked them.
	I perceive the treaty of Altena is to be brought in here as Monsr. Leyoncrona prepared us for it. I suppose you understand more of that matter since I gave you the hint of it, and Monsr. Leyoncrona does not cease to press it; which makes it more necessary we should know what they think of it in Holland, and what these Articles are, that the mediators have drawn up as terms fit to be accepted for putting an end to these differences. I have written to Mr. Cresset about it, but hope his Majesty may receive the earliest information from you.
	As to our Parliament affairs what the committee of the Commons did on Saturday last to the Admiralty, being a little quick and unexpected, I send enclosed a more particular account thereof. By this proceeding you will easily judge that men in employments here stand slipperily.
	The Lords were in a committee on Saturday upon the Disbanding Bill. The most that was said against it was reserved to that day, but still under caution that the rejecting it would be a greater insecurity. There has been no division during any of the debates, and this day it was read a third time. I suppose his Majesty will come to the House of Lords within a day or two to pass it. [S.P. 32. 11. f. 136.]
Jan. 31. Whitehall.	J. Ellis to the same. I have taken care that a packet, directed by you to Mr. Hugh Cuningham in Edinburgh, should be put in the Secretary of Scotland's black box to-night.
	The Lords have passed to-day the Disbanding Bill without any contradiction. It is supposed his Majesty will give the Royal Assent to it to-morrow, or next day, and it is expected should make a Speech to the Houses on that occasion.
	Sir Wm. Temple is dead, of the gout in his stomach it is said; and this evening we have a report that the electoral prince of Bavaria is dead, which much alarms us.
	On Saturday the House of Commons in a grand committee was upon the state of the navy, and after seven hours' debate came to this resolution, that the Straits squadron not sailing till September was a prejudice to England, and a great mismanagement; and they are to be on the same matter on Thursday, when, it is thought, they will make some further steps in it, but this has already so much alarmed the Admiralty that it is thought some of them will lay down. Endorsed, R. Feb. 13. 99. [S.P. 32. 15. ff. 314–315.]
	Newsletter to the same. Sir William Temple, famous for his negociations during the reign of king Charles the 2nd, died last week at his house at Moor Park.
	Letters from Ireland, of the 24th inst., say that the sessions was drawing to a conclusion. Endorsed, R. Feb. 13th, 99. [S.P. 32. 11. ff. 134–135.]
Jan. 31. Kensington.	[The king to the commissioners of the royal burghs of Scotland.] We were well satisfied with your letter to us of Oct. 15, 1696, whereby you signified your resolution to renew the Staple contract with the town of Camphire, and that for this end you had granted a commission to Sir Andrew Kennedy, our resident in the Netherlands. Since which we understand that in prosecution of this commission the contract is ended, and the Staple Court established in the said town, and that thereby there are very advantageous privileges granted for the trade of [Scotland]. We will take care to maintain them and to remove whatever may occasion misunderstanding between our royal burghs and the town of Camphire.
	By the contract it is agreed that the same shall be ratified by the States of Zeland and by a convention of the royal burghs. This is already done by the States. We have therefore appointed your meeting at this time that you may ratify, and that we may thereafter give our ratification. [S.P. 57. 17. p. 96.]
Jan. 31. Kensington.	Warrant for a patent and commission to John, Lord Carmichael, to be one of the principal Secretaries of State for Scotland. [Ibid. pp. 97–9.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a pension of £1,000 to Lord Carmichael, as one of the two Secretaries of State. [Ibid. p. 99.]
	The king to the lords of the Treasury of Scotland, adding Master Francis Montgomery of Giffin to their number. [Ibid.]
	Docquet of the warrant for a pension of £500 to Master Francis Montgomery, as a lord of the Treasury of Scotland. [Ibid. p. 100.]
	Warrant for the appointment of John, earl of Lauderdale, to be general of H.M. mint and coining house in Scotland, with a salary of £300, and commodious lodgings within the mint, as enjoyed by his predecessors. [Ibid. pp. 101–3.]
	Commissions to John, earl of Mar, to be governor, and to John Areskine to be lieutenant governor, of the castle of Stirling; to Lieut.-Col. John Erskine to be governor, and to Ensign Billingham to be lieutenant-governor, of the castle of Dumbarton. [Ibid. p. 103.]
	Warrant for a patent creating David Boyle of Kelburn a lord and free lord of Parliament of Scotland, to be called Lord Boyle of Kelburn, Stewartoun, Kilbrae, Finnick Larges and Dalrye; the title being granted to him and the heirs male of his body or nearest heirs male. The warrant refers to the eminent services of the ancient family of Boyle of Kelburn, which David Boyle now represents. (The Acts of the Parliaments of Scotland, x, 188.) [S.P. 57. 17. pp. 103–5.]
Jan. 31. Kensington.	Warrant for the appointment of Hugh, earl of Lowdoun, to be one of the extraordinary lords of session. [Ibid. p. 106.]
	Warrant for the grant to Sir Hugh Dalrymple, president of the College of Justice, of a pension of £200, over and above the salary of £500. [Ibid. pp. 107–8.]
	Docquets of warrants, for a pension of £400 to William, earl of Annandale; and for pensions of £200 each to Sir James Murray of Philipshaugh, a senator of the College of Justice, and to Sir — Stuart of Cultnes, son and heir to Sir Thomas Stuart of Cultnes, deceased. [Ibid. pp. 108–9.]
	Commission to Mr. Wm. Besbeech, to be 2nd lieutenant of Capt. Wm. Abrahall's company in Col. Edward Dutton Colt's marine regiment. [S.P. 44. 167. p. 365.]
	Licence to Thomas Jones, high sheriff of Denbighshire, to live out of the county. [S.P. 44. 163. p. 121.]
	Warrant for a pardon to William Pheasant, found guilty at the Old Bailey of carnally knowing Deborah Wise, under the age of ten years. [S.P. 44. 347. p. 385; S.O. 3. 20. f. 165 v.]
Jan.	Docquet, of a grant of the office of ranger of the Little Park at Windsor to William, earl of Portland [S.O. 3. 20. f. 164.]:
	of a grant to James Gastigny of an annuity of £500 [Ibid.]:
	of a grant, whereby, after reciting that Sir William Williams, late of Vaynol, co. Carnarvon, bart., made his will in writing, therein reciting that he had given to Charles Allonson and his heirs an annuity or rentcharge of £540, payable out of all his lands immediately after the death [of the testator] and failure of issue of his body: by his will the testator confirmed the grant, and as concerning all his real estate the testator devised the same, in case he should die without heirs of his body, to Sir Boucher Wrey, bart., since deceased, Boucher Wrey and Chichester Wrey, sons of Sir Boucher, successively during their lives, and then to his Majesty, his heirs and successors, subject to such rentcharge; his Majesty grants all his reversion unto John Gore, esq., his heirs and assigns [etc.] [S.O. 3. 20. ff. 164 v—165]:
	of a licence to John Abell to return to England. [Ibid.]
	Note for the dividend. [S.P. 32. 11. f. 137.]