|
1 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 37. Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched" 1771–6, p. 210. |
1026. Earl of Dartmouth to the Lords of the Admiralty. |
|
Instructions for the Admiral commanding on the Boston station,
in view of the open and actual rebellion of the four New England
Governments, &c. To carry on such operations upon the seacoasts as he shall judge effectual for suppressing the rebellion: to
seize and detain until H.M.'s pleasure be known, all ships, &c.
belonging to the inhabitants of those Colonies, such only excepted
as he shall find, upon good evidence and information, to be bonâ
fide the sole property of persons who have been in no shape
concerned in such rebellious proceedings, and have given proof of
their attachment to the Constitution by refusing to concur in the
unwarrantable measures adopted to subvert it. Small squadrons
to be at New York, in Delaware Bay, in Chesapeak Bay, and
within the bar of Charlestown, to search vessels, &c., and to give
asylum to governors and other officers, &c., if necessary. The commanders to cause it to be publicly signified in all such sea-port
towns as are accessible to the King's ships, that if any violence be
offered therein to officers of the Crown, &c., or any bodies of men
raised and armed, or military works erected, or attempts made to
seize magazines, &c., it will be their duty to proceed by their most
vigorous efforts against the said town as in open rebellion against
the King.—Whitehall. A draft. 6¼ pp. |
1 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 38 a, b. Let. Bk. Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 20 |
1027. Php. Stephens to [J. Pownall]. |
|
Sending an extract of a letter from Lord Sandwich for Lord
Dartmouth's sentiments thereupon.—Admiralty. |
|
The enclosure. As to the requirements of Admiral Graves for the
service in America. 3 pp. |
2 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 39. Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 209. |
1028. J. Pownall to Philip Stephens, Esq. |
|
On the subject of the addition of 50-gun ships to Vice-Admiral
Graves' squadron, approved by Lord Sandwich, and corresponding
exactly with the wishes of the rest of the King's servants.—Greenwich. |
4 July.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 88, No. 12. |
1029. Thos. Wilkinson to Lord Rochford. |
|
Stating his claims for neimbursement for expenses incurred in
conveyance of certain consuls and others to Gibraltar, Tetuan,
&c., on board H.M.'s Ship "Winchelsea," under his command.—London. 2 pp. |
4 July.
Post Office, v. 7. No. 5 a, b, c. |
1030. Anth. Todd to John Pownall, Esq. |
|
Enclosing two letters, in original, from Mr. Finlay, "our"
Deputy-General for North America.—General Post Office. |
| Let. Bk. Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 25. |
The enclosures; viz., |
|
(b.) 20 May. On board H.M.S. "King Fisher," off Sandy Hook.
Detail of difficulties in the way of his return to Canada, all communication by land between it and New York being now stopped. I most
sincerely wish to be once more in a land where quiet peace and good
order yet reign. But how long Canada may enjoy a tranquil state is
very uncertain. It was rumoured in Albany that the provincial troops
had laid a plan to penetrate as far into Canada this summer as
possible. It is very probable that the post-office may be shut up
entirely in a short time. We found we could not prevent the
mails from being opened. Few men care to write by post, some
because it is held as unconstitutional, others because their letters
are not safe in H.M.'s mails. However, as long as our mails are
permitted to pass to the southward unobstructed by constitutional
inspectors, we shall continue to keep the post on foot, although the
postage (we fear) will not defray the expense of riding work.
Some of Mr. Foxcroft's friends informed him that a vessel was
fitting out, manned with 60 resolute fellows, well armed, and sent to
cruise off Sandy Hook to intercept the mails. I therefore
embarked on the "King Fisher," and we shall cruise on and off
until we fall in with the armed vessel or the packet-boat. I shall
open the mail on board, &c. Mr. Foxcroft will in all likelihood
find it convenient to make an office of delivery on board H.M.'s
ship, as I suspect it is ardently wished to discover who are and who
are not friends of Government; and if a man should be unhappily
held up as differing in opinion from the infallible leaders, the ruin
of thousands might ensue. Arrangements for his (Finlay's) future
movements detailed. |
|
(c.) 16 May New York. When I hesitated about proceeding thus far I imagined I could be of no use here. I was
actually 16 miles on my way back to Quebec, but I considered
again, and then it appeared to be my duty to join Mr. Foxcroft at
all risks, that we might consult together. We shall settle matters
to-day, and to-morrow I shall leave him. I shall run many risks
in attempting to get back. Items of intelligence. 6 pp. |
6 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 40 a, b. |
1031. Sir Hugh Palliser to John Pownall, Esq. |
|
Returning an enclosure, and sending a report of certain ships
enquired about. |
|
The second-mentioned enclosure only. 2 pp. |
6 July.
Ireland, Entry Bk., 1775–7, p. 46. |
1032. Lord Rochford to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. |
|
Directing that the proper measures be taken for removing
Matthew Cocklane from Dublin to Derby, to be tried at the latter
place for murder.—St. James's. |
7 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 69. |
1033. Willm. McCall to Lord—. |
|
Transmitting despatches from Governor Young, of Grenada,
recommended to the special care of his brother, Robert Young, Esq.—Crescent, No. 5. p. |
7 July.
Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 215. |
1034. J. Pownall to Mr. Benjamin Daly. |
|
In reply to his letter upon the subject of supplying H.M.'s fleets
and armies in North America with provisions, refers him to
the Lords of the Treasury and Lords of the Admiralty.—Whitehall. |
7 July.
Ireland, v. 453, No. 77 a, b, c. |
1035. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Harcourt) to Lord
Rochford. |
|
Enclosing a letter from the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland,
submitting that, on account of their efficiency, the 8th and 14th
Regiments of Heavy Dragoons should not be the ones chosen to
be converted into regiments of Light Dragoons. In conversation,
suggested that the 9th and 13th Regiments should be substituted,
they being the worst regiments of Heavy Dragoons in Ireland.
Enclosing also another letter as to certain commissions.—Dublin
Castle. |
|
The enclosures. 6 pp. |
7 July.
Ireland, v. 453, No. 78. |
1036. Lieut.-General J. Irwine to Lord Rochford. |
|
Giving his reasons for recommending Major Stewart, of the
37th Regiment, for the purchase of the 3rd (or Old Buff) Regiment,
&c. For his care of the 37th alone, the Major deserves some
mark of the King's favour. That regiment, which always behaved
bravely in action, was, as to dress, discipline, cleanliness, and
sobriety, very deficient; is now as well dressed, as steady, as well
trained, and in every respect as good as most regiments in
H.M.'s Army. The Old Buffs, when I last saw them, were in
exceeding bad order, and want greatly such a commander as
I dare believe, and he promises me, he will prove. Moreover, I
am apt to think, and very earnestly do hope, it will be the means
of making Major Nicholson (a name well known to His Majesty)
quit the majority of the Old Buffs. When that happens, I shall
have some hopes of that regiment. |
|
Also explaining the reasons of a recommendation that a Capt.Lieutenant in the 53rd Regiment should be made quartermaster,
which was a plan to get rid of an inefficient adjutant. My great
desire is to put all the adjutants and quartermasters into the
power of the colonels; for which reason I never will recommend
to my Lord Lieutenant that they shall sell those commissions if
they did not buy them; and if they did buy, and desire to sell,
I shall always oblige them to sell very short of the price which
they paid, so that at last it shall be reduced to nothing. I have
done it now in the 8th Dragoons; the Adjutant, who now desires
to sell, having paid 460l. for his commission, and I oblige him to
take 350l. for it; which transaction I have begged may be entered
in the Secretary's office here, where it remains a memorandum
hereafter.—Dublin Castle. 4 pp. |
7 July.
Post Office, v. 7, No. 8 a to g. Let. Bk., Sec.s, 1775–6, p. 23. |
1037. Mr. Todd to Mr. Pownall. |
|
Enclosing copies of letters, &c.—General Post Office. |
|
The enclosures; viz., |
|
(b.) Letter from John Foxcroft, New York, 7 June.—Since
Mr. Dashwood's departure, the riders have been stopped between
this and Canada, and at present all communication cut off with
that country by the New England men taking possession of
Ticonderoga and Crown Point. At present everything is in confusion in this once happy country. Mr. Finlay got down as far
as Albany before he learnt of our distracted situation. There he
heard of their intending to seize him and Lieut. Parke, on which
he despatched his man to me with a message (not daring to write),
who arrived on the 12th, and informed me that his master was
returned to Canada. However, Mr. Finlay, on the 16th, in the
morning between 4 and 5 o'clock, surprised me with his appearance. After one day's journey with Mr. Parke his heart misgave
him, and therefore he resolved to return to New York. On the
18th Capt. Montagu took Mr. Finlay on board, and fell down to
the Hook to protect the packet, which arrived the 31st. Gen.
Gage and Genl. Carleton's despatches being taken out, the packet
proceeded up to town, and anchored under the "Asia's" stern,
and the mails were delivered to the office as usual. On Friday
Mr. Finlay left for Boston in an armed vessel with the despatches
he had taken out. |
|
(c.) Extract from the journal of the "Halifax" packet-boat. |
|
(d.) Genl. Gage to John Foxcroft, Esq., Boston, 4 May, approving
of the measures pursued, &c. |
|
(e.) Same to Same, 19 May. |
|
(f.) J. Foxcroft and H. Finlay to Capt. Montagu, of H.M.S.
"King's Fisher," New York, 18 May, asking him for assistance to
prevent H.M.'s mail from falling into other hands than those
appointed to receive it, &c. |
|
(g.) H. Finlay, off Sandy Hook, on board the "King Fisher,"
29 May, to his Brother.—This is the 11th day that we have been
looking out for the "Mercury" packet-boat. There is nothing,
in my opinion, that may not be done by the Massachusetts and
Connecticut people after having taken possession of Ticonderoga
and Crown Point. The Eathan Alban who commanded that
expedition is a man who defies every officer of Government. It
seems he resisted the civil power long since, but they cannot take
him; he is settled on lands somewhere near Lake Champlain, and
guarded by a number of settlers in his interest. Such persons as
these are the self-chosen conductors of such expeditions; for I
cannot think that any set of men in their senses could coolly
have advised him to proceed to such an overt act of rebellion.
Under what pretence take the fort ? To prevent an army of
Canadians and Indians from falling on our back settlements, say
they. I am really sorry for Col. Skene's two daughters; they
are sent prisoners with their brother and aunt to Hartford, in
Connecticut. I imagine they carried off all the Colonel's slaves,
and that these assertors of liberty and the civil rights of mankind
will set them free in New England. The Colonel will lose his
stock and crop, and his ironworks will go to ruin, since all his
workmen are scattered. They wish to make as many prisoners
as possible; they say that whenever any of their people are
maltreated by Genl. Gage they will use the people in their power
in the same way,—life for life. A few days since, the "Asia"
arrived here from Boston. I have heard that she will keep the
town quiet; at least, the friends of Government will remain
secure from insult as long as her guns gape on the city. They
say that, had she arrived before the account of the Lexington
affair got here, there would have been no disturbances in New
York; that the arms had not been carried; and that the Tories,
as the friends of Government are called, would not have been
afraid to avow their dislike of these proceedings. Whether
through fear, or whatever other motive, the people seem unanimous in their resolves. This is the land of liberty. A man may
say and do whatever he will, if he will execrate Lord North, call
the Parliament a pack of corrupted rascals, every officer of
Government a pitiful tool, and speak contomptuously of all friends
of Government. He has but one thing to guard against. As he
would avoid a coat of tar and feathers, let him not dare to say
that he thinks the King, Lords, and Commons have a right to lay
a duty on any commodity from England if it is levied in America;
that is called internal taxation, not discerning that the Legislature
cannot force a man to buy that commodity charged with the said
duty. There's one Mr. Rivington, now on board here, who was
forced to fly. What has he done? He has dared to publish
whatever has been sent to him, and will not give up the authors
of some well-wrote sensible pieces, tending to open the eyes of
people, &c. Liberty, Sir, liberty. Let every man say and write
what he will, but let him not dare to say a word in favour of a
corrupt administration: he must be a bad man who dares to
approve of these measures; we'll, therefore, banish the wretch
from among us. On this principle was Mr. Rivington chased from
his wife and family; so were Dr. Chandler and Dr. Cooper, who
are now on their way to the land of slavery, as England is called.
When I was on my way from Skenesboro, I found the whole
country in expectation of a body of Indians and Canadians. A
man stopped me, and asked me if I was from Canada, and whether
the Canadians were far advanced on their march. I soon convinced him he had nothing to fear from that quarter. He thanked
Heaven most fervently, and told me that he had hourly expected
to be called forth to oppose the Canadians. On Lake Champlain
an ignorant poor settler was lamenting the fate of New England.
Bishops were to be sent over, Presbyterians were to be persecuted,
and a tenth of everything they possessed was to go towards the
maintenance of the enemies of the Kirk; that Popery was to
prevail, and the righteous dissenters were to be crushed. Nothing
will sooner rouse these poor people than to say that Episcopacy
will prevail, and that his industry will feed the bishop and his
curates. The training to arms and the skirmish at Lexington
has kept up the fever; but if we are left to cool, and Britain
forbids our exportation and importation, we shall see our danger,
and call in the aid of physicians, and chase empiries from amongst
us. Choice of Mr. Hancock as chairman of the Congress discussed.
It is whispered that the majority of the delegates are for proposing terms of accommodation, but that the New England folks
talk of standing by themselves. I hope they are not so mad.
However, as their newspapers, their orators, their politicians, and
their ministers of the Holy Gospel have deluded the people, who
are now armed to defend their religion and their property, they
will certainly go great lengths if force is used against them. I
would leave them to themselves in their own corner of America;
their reason will return, and, with their reason, hearty repentance.
They say that Dr. Franklin is come over with a hearty intention
to do all in his power to heal the wounds of America. He is
justly esteemed a man of sense and penetration, and it is confidently said he will leave no stone unturned to show the
Americans the right path. |
|
(2 June).—Mr. Harry Cuyler, of Albany, a rich man, offered
his whole fortune as surety that Major Skene's two daughters
should be forthcoming when called on, but the Yankee gentleman
insisted on carrying them to Hartford.—(Other items of news
detailed).—[This appears to be the original.] 15½ pp. |
8 July.
Law Officers' Entry Bk., 1762–95, p. 225. |
1038. Lord Rochford to the Attorney General. |
|
For his opinion whether there is any objection in law to His
Majesty's granting the request of Edward Southwell, of Kingsweston, Esq., contained in the enclosed petition, representing that
he is the sole heir of Viscountess Sondes, eldest daughter and coheiress of Thomas, late Earl of Thanet and Baron Clifford, and
praying to be admitted to the barony of Clifford.—St. James's. |
|
Mr. Southwell's petition is in Petitions, 1765–84, p. 368. |
8 July.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 23. |
1039. Mr. Boddington to Mr. Pownall. |
|
Lord Townshend is of opinion that the drums and halberds will
be useless for light infantry, and therefore submits whether drums
should be sent, as the freight is more than the value; and proposes firelocks with bayonets in lieu of halberds.—Office of
Ordnance. |
13 July.
Post Office, v. 7, No. 9. |
1040. Anth. Todd to John Pownall, Esq. |
|
Capt. Coffin, from Nantucket in 25 days, brings an account of
the safe arrival of all the transports at Boston, and that there
was no particular news.—General Post Office. 1 p. |
14 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 73 a, b, and v. 11, p. 71. |
1041. John Blackburn, jun., President of the Committee of
Trade in Liverpool, to Lord Dartmouth. |
|
Sending a newspaper containing the intelligence that the Earl
of Dunmore had retired on board man-of-war.—Liverpool. |
|
The "Virginia Gazette" of 10 June 1775. i p., and 4 pp.
of print. |
15 July.
Admiralty, v. 165, No. 26 a, b, c. |
1042. Lords of the Admiralty to the Earl of Rochford. |
|
Enclosing an extract of a letter from Vice-Adml. Young, Commander-in-Chief of H.M.'s ships at the Leeward Islands, dated
10 June, at Antigua, and copy of an anonymous letter enclosed
therein, delivered to him by Vice-Adml. Parry before leaving that
station, giving an account of a correspondence being settled
between certain persons in the Island of St. Croix and the rebels
in North America, in order to transport cannon and other warlike
stores from that Island to the Bristish Colonies, and of the measures
taken to intercept the vessel employed.—Admiralty Office. |
|
The enclosures. 4½ pp. |
15 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 43 a, b. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1776–6, p. 29. |
1043. The Same to the Earl of Dartmouth. |
|
Enclose a copy of a letter from Capt. Warren, of H.M.'s sloop
"Weazle," dated 15 May last, off Senegal, giving an account of his
proceedings on that coast.—Admiralty Office. |
|
The enclosure, detailing the movements of the sloop, &c. There
had been a ship at Port Endic from France, mounting 24 guns,
but she had run ashore, and was obliged to bear away for Goree,
where she was reported to be repairing. 2½ pp. |
17 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 76 a, b, c. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 36. |
1044. Earl of Loudoun to Lord [Dartmouth]. |
|
Enclosing papers from Virginia, communicated by a merchant,
with an extract from the merchant's letter from Williamsburg.—Loudoun. |
|
The extract, and a newspaper "supplement," No. 19, June 9,
1775. The first gives an account of Lord Dunmore's "extraordinary step" of removing on board the "Fowey," &c. 1½ pp.
and 2 pp. of print. |
17 July.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s. 1775–6, p. 27. |
1045. Sir Stanier Porten to Mr. Pownall. |
|
Enclosing an extract from a letter from Mr. St. Paul.—St. James's. |
|
Entry of the extract, dated Paris, 12 July, stating that the
French had contrived to send great quantities of merchandize to
North America, and had already furnished to the value of 32 millions of livres, which had arrived safely. The ships were sent
direct to St. Domingo, and from thence the merchandize was landed
chiefly at York to the northward of Portsmouth, in New Hampshire. |
18 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 44 a, b. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 34. |
1046. Lords of the Admiralty to the Earl of Dartmouth. |
|
Enclose a copy of a letter from Vice-Adml. Graves, dated at
Boston, the 7th June, relating an attempt made by the rebels
to destroy the cattle and stores collected on Noddles Island, and
giving an account of their having burnt the "Diana" schooner.—Admiralty Office. |
|
The enclosure.—The "Diana" was sent to prevent the rebels from
carrying out their intentions at Noddles Island. This she succeeded in doing, but in her return was run aground, and, her crew
being obliged to abandon her after continued attack, was burnt
by the rebels. 4 pp. |
18 July.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 33. |
1047. Mr. Fraser to Mr. Pownall. |
|
Mr. Henderson, of the City, has received a letter by this day's
post from Whitehaven, mentioning that on the 16th of last month
the provincial troops attacked Genl. Gage's army in the evening,
and that he had killed 5,000 of the rebels and taken a great
number prisoners. This news comes in a letter from Lieut. Snow
to his mother at Waterford, and was brought by a collier ship to
Whitehaven.—St. James's. |
19 July.
Criml. Papers, v. 14, 1770–5, p. 413. |
1048. Wm. Eden to the Recorder of London. |
|
Enclosing a letter received from Mr. Burgoyne. As there is no
reason whatever to give Mr. Robert Perreau any assurances of
mercy, I am to answer that he must abide the event of the report,
the nature of which I cannot pretend to foresee. I should
apprehend the same reasons which have hitherto delayed that
report must defer it till after the next sessions. But what is your
opinion ? In the meantime might it not be reasonable to let the
two unhappy convicts have, during the interval, a more wholesome
confinement than the condemned cell.—St. James's. |
19 July.
Ireland, v. 458, No. 82 a, b, c. Entry Bk., 1775–7, pp. 47–53. |
1049. Lord Rochford to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. |
|
In answer to letter of the 16th of June, on the state of the
army in Ireland. Enclosing copies of a letter from the Secretary
of War, and a list of the regiments on the Irish establishment for
the year 1775.—St. James's. A draft. |
|
The original of the enclosures. 7½ pp. |
20 July.
Criml. Papers, v. 14, 1770–5, p. 414. |
1050. Wm. Eden to Mr. Wm. Bayntern. |
|
In reply to the letter of the Governor and Director of the Poor
of the united parishes of St. Andrew, Holborn, and St. George,
relative to the respite lately granted to Wm. Herbert, convicted
of firing at and dangerously wounding one of the patrol.
There were some doubts as to the identity of the man, and in consequence of this it was not thought safe to execute him, but he
was ordered to be transported for 14 years.—St. James's. |
20 July.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 35. |
1051. Lord Barrington to Lord [Dartmouth]. |
|
Enclosing copies of papers received from Col. O'Hara's corps
stationed at Senegambia.—War Office. |
|
The enclosures were a letter from Governor O'Hara, and a letter
received by him from the officers of his corps, setting forth the
great hardship they conceived themselves to be under from the
appointment of Mr. McNamara, the youngest lieutenant of the
corps, to be Lieut.-Governor of the province. |
21 July.
Ireland, v. 453, No. 83. Entry Bk., p. 55. |
1052. Lord Rochford to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. |
|
Drafts of two letters of this date:— |
|
1. (Marked"Private.") The King has consented to Major
Stewart's being Lieut.-Col. of the 3rd Regiment of Foot, but
entertains so good an opinion of Major Bird, of the 19th Regiment,
as to think he ought to be recommended as soon as convenient for
the purchase of a lieut.-coloneley. He is an older officer than
Major Stewart, and would be much hurt if not assured that he
shall be as soon as possible provided for. 1¼ pp. |
|
Ibid., No. 84. Entry Bk., p. 54. |
2. His Majesty sees no reason for altering the choice of the
regiments to be converted into Light Dragoons. Also signifying
His Majesty's consent to all the successions in the 53rd Regiment
for the reasons stated; the King, however, renewing his declarations that, for the future, none but sergeants must be recommended
for quartermasters. 2¾ pp. |
22 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 94. |
1053. American Rebellion. |
|
A copy of a letter, unsigned, in reply to "A printed paper, signed
Peter Timothy, requiring my attendance this forenoon on the
General Committee, to give reasons why I have refused to sign
the Association entered into by the Congress." The writer says,
Thirty-eight years ago I began to eat the King's bread, when I
could not possibly earn it; and near 30 years ago, in November
1745, I entered into His Majesty's service, a volunteer, and then
dedicated my life to him and my country. I have continued in
the service from that time under different commissions, with,
"I hope, an irreproachable character; and as I have now the
honour of a commission from His Majesty, I intend, God willing,
to be true to the trust reposed in me. Therefore, gentlemen,
gratitude as a man, honour as a gentleman, and my duty to the
King as an officer, forbid my joining in your Association."
1¼ pp. |
22 July.
Ireland, v. 453, No. 87 a, b, c. |
1054. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Harcourt) to Lord
Rochford. |
|
As to the removal of a man from Dublin to Derby in order to
his trial for murder. Encloses a copy of a report of the Attorney
General, pointing out the necessity of a warrant from the Lord
Chief Justice, or some other Justice of H.M.'s Court of King's
Bench, before this can be done, and a copy of the last precedent.—Dublin Castle. |
|
The enclosures. 7 pp. or parts. |
23 July.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 38. |
1055. Lord Barrington to [J. Pownall]. |
|
As to his attendance at the War Office.—Becket. |
15 June to 26 July.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 88, No. 15 a, b, c. |
1056. Cabinet Meetings. |
|
"Minutes of Cabinet" meetings at Lord North's on 15 and
21 June and 26 July; all relating to measures for the suppression
of the rebellion in America. 8 pp. or parts. |
27 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 50 a to w. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 40. |
1057. Lords of the Admiraty to the Earl of Dartmouth. |
|
Sending copies of letters, &c. from Admiral Graves, dated 16th,
22nd, and 26th of last month, at Boston, giving an account of his
proceedings, of an engagement near that town on the 17th of the
same month, and of several acts of violence committed by the
provincials in other colonies.—Admiralty Office. |
|
The enclosures, from which the following items of information,
&c., are extracted:— |
|
(b.) Admiral Graves, Boston. 16 June.—The rebels landed
again, the 29th, upon Noddles Island, drove off the sheep and
cattle, and entirely destroyed all the dwelling and out-houses, &c.
We have saved great part of the King's stores, but some are
unavoidably lost. |
|
Capt. Linzee has lost his gunner, surgeon's mate, a midshipman,
eight seamen, and three marines, whom he sent in a sloop to seize
a smuggler in Buzzard's Bay. Returning with the smuggler, they
were attacked by a vessel from Dartmouth, taken and carried in
there, and, I am informed, sent prisoners up the country, many of
them wounded. |
|
By a letter from Capt. Montagu, dated 6 May, I am informed
that Lord Dunmore, expecting to be attacked every moment, had
requested assistance; that Capt. Montagu had sent a party of
seamen and marines, in all to the number of 40, to the palace
at Williamsburg, and at the same time written to the President
residing at York, to acquaint him that if any of the King's people
going to assist the Governor were attacked, he would fire on the
town. The insurgents made no attack, but contented themselves
with taking possession of the Receiver of the Quitrents' house,
and insisting on his giving them bills to the amount of the powder
secured on board the King's ships. |
|
At New York Lieut.-Governor Colden is retired to Long Island,
the legal authority of Government entirely suspended, and the
direction of the city in the hands of Committees, who at present
allow H.M.S. "Asia" there to be supplied with everything wanted;
but there is no depending upon the continuation of such an
indulgence. |
|
In New Hampshire and the province of Main, the people also
verging on rebellion and ripe for every mischief, it became necessary to send a sloop of war to Casco Bay, &c. |
|
(c.) Question and opinion of the Attorney General (Judge
Sewall) thereon, as to the power of the Admiral to allow inwardbound vessels belonging to H.M.'s peaceable and loyal subjects to
come into Boston Harbour, and to remain there under his protection without unloading. |
|
(d.) Captain Andrew Barkley to Admiral Graves. (Piscataqua,
19 May 1775.)—The people of Halifax, in Nova Scotia, assembled
and destroyed a magazine of hay collected there for the use of
H.M.'s troops, and attempted to destroy the King's yard, but were
prevented by some part of the inhabitants. |
|
(e.) Same to Same, Piscataqua, 30 May.—The stopping of two
vessels from Long Island, laden with provisions, has caused great
commotions in Portsmouth. A committee applied to the Governor
to have them discharged. He accordingly came on board yesterday afternoon to ask whether I could allow them to go to town
and unload. I told him I could not, and showed him your orders
to me. He said it might be of fatal consequence to many of the
King's subjects. I told him I could not help that; I must do my
duty. He then delivered to me a paper, copy of which I herewith
transmit. There is a large body of people come into Portsmouth
from the country. The Collector of the Customs and two or three
others have taken shelter on board the "Scarborough." Whether
the Governor means to come on board, I cannot say as yet, for
yesterday he was obliged to promise the people of the town to
return again; so that he has not the least power or authority there.
They threaten much for two or three thousand people to come
down and destroy the "Scarbro'." It was a very lucky circumstance of my dismantling the fort, for they might very easily
have come in and taken possession of it. I send these two vessels
round under the protection of the "Canceaux;" for if I had sent
them singly by themselves, there were armed boats all ready to
pursue them; and likewise expresses have been sent to Newbury
and Cape Ann, to fit out vessels to intercept them; so that it is
morally impossible for me to send any vessels that may be stopt
with provisions round to Boston without an armed vessel to
accompany them. |
|
(f.) Minute of the Governor in Council at Portsmouth, in New
Hampshire—the paper stated to have been delivered by the
Governor to Captain Barkley in the preceding letter. |
|
(g.) Resolution in the Congress at Philadelphia, 2 June 1775,
against negociating bills, supplying provisions, &c., for the British
army in Massachusetts Bay. |
|
(h.) Admiral Graves to Mr. Stephens. (Boston, 22 June).—The
growing rebellion in this country requiring many ships to cut off
supplies of provisions and ammunition, and to protect the King's
servants and subjects, I have not been able to send any ship to
the northward of Halifax except the "Gaspee" bring. Difficulty of
obtaining provisions in consequence of our being deprived of all
communication by land, &c. On the 17th I received several letters
from Captain Barkley, dated from 5 to 16 June. Copies of two
only, and of one referred to, are enclosed. The whole correspondence between him, Governor Wentworth, and myself, proves that
all legal authority in New Hampshire is entirely at an end, and
that their necessities and the impoverished state of the country
alone prevent their taking a more active part in the rebellion.
They will, I am sure, attempt to drive away or destroy the
"Scarborough;" and I think, after planting guns against their
Governor's house, and obliging him to retreat, firing at the manof-war's boats, and preparing to destroy the King's ship, little can
be said in their favour. It is impossible but a few individuals
must suffer in a general punishment, but the necessity for sending
all provisions to Boston we can is plain. It deprives rebels of the
means to keep together, and supplies the King's army, which, in
the present state of this country, must supersede all other considerations. |
|
Early in the morning of the 17th the "Lively" discovered
several thousand rebels on the hills near Charlestown, who had
thrown up an entrenchment the preceding night. Capt. Bishop
instantly fired among them, and upon his alarm they were attacked
from Copse Hill battery, on Boston side. Preparations were
also immediately made to dislodge them. The troops accordingly
landed in the afternoon, under cover of three of H.M.'s ships, &c.
They attacked the rebels, and, after a very obstinate defence,
carried their entrenchment, and drove them with great slaughter.
The King's troops are now encamped on the heights of Charlestown, and the rebels are digging entrenchments and erecting other
works at some distance, apparently with a view to dispute every
foot of ground. |
|
Cash is now at 12½ per cent. discount, and will soon be extremely
difficult to get at any rate; so that, unless money is sent from
England, every department of Government will be greatly distressed to raise sufficient at the most extravagant rates to carry on
the King's service. |
|
(i.) Mountfort Browne, Governor of the Bahama Islands, to
Admiral Graves. (New Providence, January 1775.) |
|
(k.) Capt. Barkley to Admiral Graves (Piscataqua, 5 June), relative to measures taken to resist any attack on the "Scarborough,"
&c. In consequence of one of the boats being fired upon, Capt.
Barkley seized all their fishermen he met with, being about nine
or ten; upon which a committee acting at Portsmouth wrote to
him, saying that they were very ready to settle any matter of
dispute that might be between him and the town. He replied
that he knew of no such people as those styling themselves
committee men; but if the people of Portsmouth wanted to settle
any matters with him respecting the interruption of communications, it must come through Governor Wentworth, and that he
would have written to Governor Wentworth, but that all information between him and the "Scarborough" was cut off. The next
day the select men of Portsmouth came with a letter from Governor
Wentworth. The Captain told them that when he was convinced
there was peace and good order in Portsmouth, and if there was
no obstruction in H.M.'s ships being supplied with all necessaries,
and her boats unmolested, then he would discharge the fishermen, and would give H.M.'s peaceable subjects in Portsmouth all
the protection he could consistent with his duty. They assured
him in the name of the town that he should be supplied as usual,
and the intercourse nowise interrupted; upon which he discharged
the men. The Collector, &c., who had taken refuge on the "Scarborough" upon the select men's assurances of peace in the town,
had gone back, but he did not believe it would be very long
before they would be on board again. |
|
(l.) The letter from Governor Wentworth referred to above as
having been brought by the select men. |
|
(m.) Capt. Barkley to Admiral Graves, 16 June.—Col. Fenton,
who has been these three weeks on board the "Scarborough" for
protection, went to town as being a member of their Assembly,
which was to have met that day. The populace, hearing of it,
assembled in a large body to seize him. He took shelter in the
Governor's house, which they immediately surrounded, and got two
pieces of cannon planted against the door, and declared if he was
not delivered up in five minutes they would set fire to the house.
He then surrendered himself to them, and they have carried him
into the country. The Governor and his family are now at the
Castle. Reinforcement wanted. They are making carriages at
Portsmouth in order to mount guns, and when completed they are
to mount them somewhere, but in what part it is not yet known.
I am at present on pretty good terms with the people of the town:
how long it may remain is very uncertain. |
|
(n.) Same to the Same, 31 May. [Note: Of earlier date than
preceding.]—About three or four hundred people have assembled
(? in arms) this morning on the island where I am, and are now in
possession of the fort which I mentioned in my former letter, and
am informed they are going to bring cannon down to it. The
"Canceaux," in consequence, ordered to lie off the battery. |
|
(o.) Same to the Same, 1 June.—All communication between
the ship and town is still stopped. What measures they are
pursuing I cannot inform you. The guns which I spiked up they
had got up to town before the "Canceaux" got off the battery;
they are preparing them for service. There is a hill abreast of us
in the Massachusetts side, which commands the ship. They are
now throwing up an entrenchment, and getting cannon ready to
mount there, with an intention to fire on the ship. Two or three
hundred armed men have been at work on it these two or three
days past. All the country are armed, and marching in bodies
into the town; it seems their whole design is, if possible, to drive
the ship out of the harbour. The houses on both sides the water
are entirely deserted, expecting the ship to be attacked every hour |
|
(p.) Govr. Wentworth, of New Hampshire, to Adml. Graves.
(Fort William and Mary, 15 June.)—Announcing his retirement to
the fort, which was entirely in a defenceless state, without accommodation, and altogether insecure in case the prevailing madness
of the people should follow him thither; so that although the
King's service required his remaining at the fort as long as possible,
he had yet no prospect of safety but in the hope of retreating on
board the "Scarbro':" and urging the necessity for another manof-war in the harbour. |
|
(q.) "Disposition of His Majesty's ships and vessels in North
America, under command of Vice-Admiral Graves." |
|
(r.) Adml. Graves to Mr. Stephens (Boston, 26 June), enclosing
a despatch from Capt. Wallace, of H.M.'s ship "Rose," &c. |
|
(s.) Capt. Ja. Wallace to Adml. Graves. (Rhode Island, 5 June.)—On the 3rd inst., an insurrection happened here. The people took
it in their heads that a merchant (Mr. Rome) had bought some provisions for Government. They stopped the carts, threw about the
flour, flew to arms with an avowed intent to destroy the merchant's
house and stores, crying out through the streets, "Now was the time
to kill the Tories." Intelligence was given me of this transaction.
I went on shore, saw the rebels coming in shoals armed with
musquets, bayonets, sticks, stones, &c. Was it possible I could be
a spectator of this ? I got a hundred men and more ashore well
appointed, stopt them in their career, told them upon the first act
of hostility we would rush on and put every man to the sword,
and at the same time order the ships to fire the town in every
quarter. This, together with the prayers and entreaties of several
of their principal men, who were alarmed at the prospect, put a
stop to an affair wherein the lives of hundreds were concerned.
In the beginning of the fray, one of the most daring of the rebels,
who pressed too close upon us, I seized by the collar, and made
prisoner. Many gentlemen of the town begged me to give him up,
and if I did they assured me they would disperse and restore peace
to the town. Answered them I came on shore for no other purpose than to keep the peace and preserve from destruction the
King's friends; could I be assured of that, I would turn him out
instantly. Turned out he was. They soon after dispersed, and
we embarked on board after being on shore about four hours,
during which time our people behaved with the greatest good
order. Different reports say there were from three to seven
hundred men under arms, besides those with sticks, stones, &c.
When on shore we were joined by Lieut. Brenton of the Navy,
upon half-pay here, who showed every disposition of a good officer
and subject, and for which he is obliged to abandon his family and
farm and take shelter on board H.M.'s ship, the people of the town
having sworn and attempted his destruction. |
|
(t.) Same to the Same, 19 June.—Since my last of the 5th inst.
I had information of this Colony's fitting out armed vessels from
Providence to attack the King's ships. In consequence of this I
sent two packets out different ways to reconnoitre. Unluckily,
one of them fell in with two of their sloops, and after an action of
half an hour was run on shore. At this time I had four or five
vessels loaded with provisions upon the point of sailing to Boston,
the owners agreeing with me for their proceeding. Hearing the
pirates were at anchor about four leagues from us, I got under
weigh as secret as possible, expecting to fall upon them by surprise.
However, they got intelligence, and moved higher up towards Providence, in shallow water, where it was not proper for us to pursue
them. On our return to Newport we found a great number of the
townspeople had taken advantage of our absence, armed a number
of boats and vessels, taken the victuallers, carried them to town,
dismantled and unloaded them; and this done in the space of two
or three hours. This procedure, together with their behaviour on
hearing of an action in the Massachusetts Bay, sending every
assistance of men, provisions, &c., to the rebel camp, their public
Acts of Assembly, all demonstrate they are as much in rebellion as
Putnam and his camp. |
|
(u.) "Particulars of an action between the 'Diana' packet, a
tender belonging to H.M.S. 'Rose,' and two armed sloops belonging
to the rebels." |
|
(v.) Nicholas Cooke, "Dep. Govr.," to Capt. Wallace. (East
Greenwich, 14 June.)—Long have the good people of this Colony
been oppressed by your conduct in interrupting their lawful
trades, and preventing the importation of the provisions necessary
for their subsistence. The Acts of the British Parliament, already
filled with restriction of trade oppressive in the highest degree,
seem by you to be thought too lenient. Not controlled by those
you affect to call your masters, you have detained the persons and
taken away the properties of H.M.'s American subjects without
any warrant from the Act of Trade. The inhabitants, expecting
the interposition of the lawful authority of the Colony, have borne
these outrages with a patience almost criminal. The Legislature
have heard their complaints, and in consequence of an Act passed
by the General Assembly this day, demand of you the reason of
your conduct, and that you immediately restore the two packets,
&c. detained. So long as you remain in the Colony, and demean
yourself as becomes your office, you may depend upon the protection of the laws, and every assistance for promoting the public
service in my power; and you may also be assured that the whole
power of this Colony will be exerted to secure the persons and
properties of the inhabitants against every lawless invader. An
immediate answer is requested. |
|
(w.) Capt. Wallace to Nicholas Cooke, Esq. (15 June).—I am
unacquainted with you, or what station you act in. Previous to
giving my answer, must desire to know whether or not you, or the
people on whose behalf you write, are not in open rebellion. 5 pp.
or parts of pp. |
27 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 51 a, b. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 42. |
1058. Lords of The Admiralty to the Earl of Dartmouth. |
|
Sending a copy of a letter from Capt. Orrok, of H.M.S. "Racehorse," dated in Portendic Road, 14 June, giving an account of
his proceedings.—Admiralty Office. |
|
The enclosure. "Upon the 9th and 10th ran down alongshore,
in order to find Portendic. In the afternoon of the 10th we made
the tree which is the most particular mark for knowing the
place." The only French ships that had been on the coast were
a snow from Bordeaux, which had called at Portendic, but had
taken no gum, and was going down to Goree; and a larger one,
which was reported to have run upon a shoal and received some
damage, and was obliged to go to Goree without trading. 3 pp. |
27 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10. No. 77. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 39. |
1059. Edward Bridgen to Jno. Pownall, Esq. |
|
A number of eminent merchants at Bordeaux have formed
themselves into a company, and subscribed many thousand pounds
sterling, for the purpose of trading with our colonies in North
America, but have not yet fixed on the mode, whether through
the islands or directly to the Continent. Though this scheme is,
as I should imagine, impracticable as things are now circumstanced,
yet this notice may have its use at the Board of Trade.—Paternoster Row. 1 p. |
27 July.
Ireland, v. 454, No. 2. |
1060. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Harcourt) to Lord
Rochford. |
|
Proposing that Parliament should be further prorogued to
10 Oct., then to sit for despatch of business.—Dublin Castle.
1½ pp. |
28 July.
Admiralty, v. 166, No. 53. |
1061. Mr. Stephens to Mr. Pownall. |
|
Sending copies of the enclosures in Admiral Graves' letters; the
letter to Lord Dartmouth to follow as soon as it is signed.—Admiralty. |
|
On the back is "The letter from the Lords of the Admty.
dated 27 July, was received the 30th, and the papers annexed
to it." 1 p. |
28 July.
Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 227. |
1062. Earl Of Dartmouth to Lord Viscount Barrington. |
|
Thinks it proper to state that Major Charles Lee, Captain
Richard Gridley, and Lieutenant Donald Campbell, all officers in
H.M.'s service on half-pay, have been very active in aiding,
abetting, and assisting the unnatural rebellion in North America.—Whitehall. |
29 July.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 78. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 45. |
1063. Major John Maxwell to John Pownall, Esq. |
|
Offering to serve in Canada, provided the post of St. John's,
near Lake Champlain, were erected into a Government, and the
command of it given to him, or some other equivalent, as he could
not share in any promotion.—London. 1½ pp. |
29 July.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 88, No. 14 a, b, c. |
1064. Papers connected with the pardon of Thomas O'Connor,
Esq., for having entered into the French service; viz., |
|
Report of the Attorney General; |
|
Draft of necessary warrant; and |
|
Affidavit made by Mr. O'Connor. 11 pp. or parts. |
31 July.
Ireland, v. 454, No. 10. |
1065. Lord Lieutenant Of Ireland (Harcourt) to Lord
Rochford. |
|
As to Major Bird. Was not acquainted with his inclination to
purchase when the recommendation for Major Stewart was
transmitted, &c.—Dublin Castle. "Private." 1½ pp. |
—July.
Law Officers' Entry Bk., 1762–95, p. 226. |
1066. Lord Rochford to Mr. Attorney General. |
|
As to the Barony of Clifford. Encloses the petition of Mary,
Countess Dowager of Gower, together with a note of the
descendants of the late Earl of Thanet and Baron Clifford,
praying to be admitted to the said Barony.—St. James's. |
|
For her Petition see Petitions, 1765–84, p. 372. |
29 July. and 1 Aug.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, Nos. 79 and 80. Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 229. Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1775–6, p. 44. |
1067. Proposal to Raise a Regiment. |
|
Lieut.-Col. John Reid to John Pownall, Esq. As to his proposal
to raise a battalion of Highlanders.—Villiers Street, Strand. 1 p. |
|
Draft of reply, declining the proposal, as being likely to
obstruct recruiting for the Royal regiment of Highlanders. 1 p. |
