America and West Indies: September 1694, 17-29

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 14, 1693-1696. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1903.

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'America and West Indies: September 1694, 17-29', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 14, 1693-1696, (London, 1903) pp. 354-366. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol14/pp354-366 [accessed 25 March 2024]

September 1694

Sept. 17. 1,318. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Mr. Bridgeman's letter of 13th inst. with an extract of one from the Navy Board, and a second extract from the Navy Board of 10th inst. read, with an estimate of the victuals for the expedition, of which last a copy was ordered to be sent to the Treasury. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. p. 345.]
Sept. 17.
Boston.
1,319. Lieutenant-Governor Stoughton to Sir John Trenchard. I have received the King's letter, summoning Sir William Phips home to answer the charges against him. I caused it to be read in Council; the necessary notices have been given, and myself and Council have given up several days to the receiving of evidence. No delay shall be in the proceeding with this matter. Signed. Wm. Stoughton. 1½ pp. Endorsed, R. Nov. 12, 1694.
Duplicate of the foregoing. Endorsed, R., Nov. 24, 1694. [America and West Indies. 561. Nos. 42, 43.]
Sept. 18.
Boston.
1,320. Governor Sir William Phips to Sir John Trenchard. The taking of depositions being but now completed, I have not yet been able to come over, but I am so near shipping myself for the voyage that I shall defer all further matters until I can wait on you in person, except the following. Lately I ordered Captain Taylor in the Nonsuch to St. Johns to await the arrival of a considerable French ship that was expected there. On frivolous pretences Taylor delayed so long that the French ship arrived before him, and though she was once so near him as to prepare to fight him, he pretended that he never saw her; and so the Frenchman despatched her errand and weighed anchor. Villebon, the ringleader of the treacherous French in those parts, being now supplied with vast stores for war, fitted out a party of French Indians for blood and spoil upon our frontiers. These picked up a number of wild Indians of the tribe which I had lately brought to submission, and made cruel depredations upon a place called Oyster River, and after that upon another secure plantation, slaughtering the inhabitants. In this way a miserable wound has been given to the peace which we have enjoyed for a year; and the Eastern Sagamores on the news of my going home, seem to abandon that good regard for the English to which I had brought them, insomuch that on my late voyage they failed altogether of their promise to meet me. Captain Dobbins has since burned a considerable French ship in the place where Taylor failed. Pray give no heed to the malicious accusations of my enemies until I have been heard. Signed. William Phips. 1½ pp. Endorsed, R. Nov. 28, 1694. [America and West Indies. 561. No. 44.]
Sept. 18. 1,321. John Povey to William Bridgeman. The Commissioners for Victualling are directed to attend the meeting of the Committee of Trade and Plantations to-morrow. If the Admiralty have any return to make as to next year's trade, it may then be laid before them. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 59.]
Sept. 18. 1,322. John Povey to the Commissioners for Victualling. Directing their attendance at the meeting of the Committee of Trade and Plantations on the morrow at 9 a.m. Draft. ¼ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 60.]
Sept. 18. 1,323. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. Bill for regulation of soldiers' wages, etc., read and amended. On the letter from the Lords of Trade as to supply of Naval stores, it was voted that a ship-load be sent as speedily as possible, and that a Committee be appointed to superintend the same.
Sept. 19. Bill for regulation of soldiers' wages, etc., read and engrossed. A vote of the Representatives for despatching an Agent to England was referred for further consideration.
Sept. 20. The vote as to an Agent was again considered and negatived. Bill to prohibit exportation of ships' timber and Naval stores read a first time.
Sept. 21. Order for an abatement of £50 on the assessment of Hadley. Bill to prohibit exportation of Naval stores again debated. A Conference was held by desire of the Representatives. Order for £1,000 to be placed at the Treasurer's disposal for more easily procuring a ship-load of Naval stores for England.
Sept. 22. Bill to prohibit exportation of Naval stores passed. Adjourned to 16 October. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 457–460.]
Sept. 19. 1,324. John Povey to Henry Guy. I forward the Victualling Board's estimate of cost of provisions for 1,700 men for the approval of the Treasury, desiring at the same time that the Victualling Board may be enabled to proceed with the service with all expedition. My Lords also would be glad to receive the Treasury's opinion on the estimate for transport of these men and for payment of a Commissary, Physician and Apothecaries. Draft with corrections. 1 p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 61; and 53. p. 248.]
Sept. 20. 1,325. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Order for payments for the killing of wolves according to the Act. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 275, 276.]
Sept. 20.
Whitehall.
1,326. Order of the Queen in Council. Referring the petition of William Carbonell and others to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Rich. Colinge.
Petition of William Carbonell and others to the Queen. For orders to the Admiralty to pay for the hire of one of their ships, pressed for service as a man of war by the Government of Barbados. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 44. pp. 130, 131.]
Sept. 20.
Whitehall.
1,327. Order of the Queen in Council. Referring the petition of Paul de Brissack to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Rich. Colinge. ¼ p. Annexed,
1,327. I. Petition of Paul de Brissack to the Queen in Council. A ship belonging to me was forced by Lieutenant-Governor Thomas Hill to go to Nevis to fetch some cattle belonging to the said Lieutenant-Governor and was lost. I have brought several actions against him for the value of the ship, to which he refuses to answer. I beg that he may be summoned before the Governor and Council and compelled to pay. Copy. ½ p. The whole endorsed, Recd. 25 Sept. Read 28 Sept., 1694. Nothing. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 4. Nos. 41, 41I.]
Sept. 20. 1,328. Minutes of Council of New York. The dispute as to land between Captain John Evans and Gertrude Brown heard. Order for sundry payments. Order for Major Peter Schuyler to find a blacksmith to live among the Indians and furnish intelligence of them, granting him liberty to trade with the Indians in some measure, for his encouragement.
Sept. 21. Agreed with Major Peter Schuyler that he victual the troops at Albany, receiving 5½d. a day per man. Order for £200 to be paid to him in advance. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 564, 565.]
Sept. 20. 1,329. Journal of House of Burgesses of Maryland. The House met and the members were sworn.
Sept. 21. Robert Smith chosen Speaker and approved. Speech of the Governor, announcing that he had appointed a day of fasting and humiliation, and that he would lay before them later what measures he had to propose. Cleborne Lomax approved as Clerk. The House was called over, and three members were found to be absent, of whom John Coode was excused, for reasons given in a letter, which was read. Rules of the House drawn up. Committee of privileges and elections appointed.
Sept. 22. The House attended the Governor to hear his Commission read. Message to the Governor asking him to appoint a chaplain, which he consented to do. Committee of Grievances appointed. Message to the Governor to ask what he has to impart to them, to which he answered that he would speedily communicate the same. Sundry grievances brought up for consideration. Ordered that the ordinary-keepers shall render an account of every burgess's expenses on every Saturday night. The Committee of Elections made its report as to disputed returns, that it saw no reason to reject any of them. Order for arrest of the sheriff of Cecil County for making no return of the election of Burgesses. Address of congratulation to the Governor on his arrival, and thanks for favours received. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 317–326.]
Sept. 20. 1,330. Minutes of the Council of Maryland in Assembly. The Assembly was sworn, and a petition against one return referred to the Assembly. The Governor having ascertained that Lord Baltimore had appointed the last Clerk of Assembly, asked the Council to recommend a suitable person to him. Commissioners appointed to swear in the lower house. The Royal instructions as to bulk-tobacco and Ports read. Cleborne Lomax appointed Clerk of the House of Burgesses. Order for proclamation of a day of fasting and humiliation.
Sept. 21. The Burgesses attended, and the Governor made them a speech. Proclamation as to the fast day approved.
Sept. 22. The Governor's commission was read to the Assembly. The following matters were recommended to the Assembly: conversion of negroes and Indians, restraint of inhumanity to servants, a table of marriages, restraint of drunkenness and blasphemy, the building of public work-houses, supply for the Governor, moderation of burgesses' expenses. These with certain other letters and papers were sent down to the Burgesses, who answered by an address of thanks and congratulation. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 255–262.]
Sept. 22.
Boston.
1,331. Governor Sir William Phips to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I have received your letter of 5 April (see No. 1,003) and have duly communicated it to the Assembly, who have appointed a committee to provide for the despatch of a shipload of Naval stores, as soon as the season and the danger to workmen by reason of the war will permit. It is hoped that they may arrive within the compass of the year (of which a great part was expired before receipt of your letter), and it will be the utmost care of Government to answer the proposal made to Their Majesties. An account will be sent of the supply that may be transmitted annually. Signed. William Phips. 1½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14 Jan. 1694–5. [Board of Trade. New England, 7. No. 40; and 35. pp. 175, 176.]
Sept. 22.
Transport
Office.
1,332. Commissioners for Transport to John Povey. We beg to be informed whether the surgeons of the various transports for Jamaica are to make up their own chests of medicines, to be duly inspected as the Lords of Trade shall direct, or whether the chests shall be made up by the Apothecary General or other duly appointed person. We think also that it would be best to ship all the troops at one port instead of at Portsmouth and Plymouth, as the latter course might cause the ships to lose a wind and delay them a month or two, with danger both to them and to the health of the troops. Signed. Robert Henley, Saml. Atkinson, John Nicoll, John Ellis. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. that night. Read 26 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No 62; and 53. pp. 242–250.]
Sept. 22. 1,333. Minutes of the Council of Maryland. The Governor asked the Council's opinion whether they could take upon them the hearing of appeals and writs of error, as also the regulation of the Courts of Chancery. The Attorneys were called in and consulted, who asked for time to consider their answer. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 13. pp. 113, 114.]
Sept. 24. 1,334. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Order for the warning of certain friendly Indians, and for the appointment of four Englishmen to take charge of them. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., p. 275.]
Sept. 24. 1,335. Minutes of Council of Barbados. The Governor laid before Council Colonel Goddard's letter as to the design of the French to attack Barbados; and the Council at once fell upon debating the question of defence. The Governor said also that he had impressed a brigantine and sloop to capture a French privateer. The Council agreed that the vessels should be taken up and fitted out; and a joint Committee of the Council and Assembly was appointed to superintend the same. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 470–473; and Board of Trade. Barbados, 65. pp. 10, 11.]
Sept. 24. 1,336. Lieutenant-Governor Sir William Beeston to Sir John Trenchard. I have yours of 26 March and 5 April in favour of Mr. Simpson and Mr. Wilmer. That estate was wholly destroyed by the French, and nothing left but the land. Mr. Wilmer went to see it after his arrival, it being forty-five miles away, but whether he got wet or whether he wanted convenient lodging (the houses in those parts being all burnt down), he fell sick as soon as he returned and in a few days died. He left an extravagant will, bequeathing all he had to three parishes in England, but I cannot think that he was in his right mind when he made it, nor will the witnesses swear that he was. But someone shall save what he has for his father, who, I guess, has more occasion for it than these parishes. I should have been happy to do him any service, and shall be the like for Mr. Simpson, who is a very civil gentleman and behaves himself very well. I have sent all the men-of-war and our fireship to the coast of Hispaniola, where I hope they will do something in recompense of the barbarous treatment used by the French to us here; but I am unable, owing to our weakness, to send any landsmen with them, so I doubt if they will attempt any great enterprise, for the Commanders seem to be very cautious of bringing Their Majesties' ships into any danger. Signed. Wm. Beeston. Holograph. 1 p. Endorsed, R. 11 Jan. 1694.
Duplicate of the foregoing. Endorsed, R. 17 Jan. 1694. [America and West Indies. 540. Nos. 42, 43.]
Sept. 24. 1337. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Order allowing some ships to sail, notwithstanding the recent embargo. Order that George Plater write to a merchant in London for certain arms, including hand-mortars such as the Grenadiers had at Tangier, in all to the value of £250.
Sept. 25. Orders for enquiry by what right Mr. Clayland, Mr. Leech and Mr. Davies have been preaching. Petition of Thomas Tench, executor of Governor Copley, as to certain difficulties in dealing with the estate, due to the action of Colonel Blakiston's administrators. A letter from Mr. Josephs read, praying that certain articles agreed on at the surrender of Mattapany might be recorded.
Sept. 26. The opinions of the attorneys as to the judicial functions of the Governor and Council. Undoubtedly the Governor in Council can sit in appeal or error without further commission than the King's. As to equity the Governor may constitute a court, or procure a law declaring them Judges in Equity.
Sept. 27. Order for bringing in the arms surrendered at Mattapany. The funerals of Colonel and Mrs. Copley appointed for the 5th of October.
Sept. 28. The opinion of the attorneys again read and sent down to the Burgesses.
Sept. 29. List of the vessels cleared for Europe. Philip Lynes, the Mayor elect of St. Maries, attended with several members of the corporation and was sworn. On a letter from Sir Edmund Andros as to taking the oath for execution of the Acts of Trade, the Governor made enquiry as to the oaths that Sir Edmund had taken, and submitted to the Attorneys whether Sir Edmund's assumption of the Government was legal. To this they answered that it was illegal, and that an Act would be required to legitimate all his actions. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 113–127.]
Sept. 24. 1,338. Journal of House of Burgesses of Maryland. The Governor's recommendations were read and considered, and sundry orders made thereupon. Resolved that the allowance made to Burgesses at last Assembly be enacted by law, but that the allowance to justices of County Courts shall be reduced. The Queen's letters as to bulk-tobacco and ports read, also the letters from the Governor of New York. Message of the Council recommending an increase of the number of vestrymen in each parish and that the minister be one of them. The House resolved that the minister should be so added, that vestrymen refusing to serve should be fined, and that care be taken for building ministers' houses and settling a glebe, if possible, to each. Further propositions as to the ministry and education deferred. The Governor and Sir Thomas Laurence thanked for their offer to subscribe to the building of a free school.
Sept. 25. Richard Johns and John Edmundson were excluded from the House, having refused to take the oaths, and new writs to fill their places were requested. On the Queen's letter as to bulk-tobacco, the House resolved that to prohibit the export thereof would be impoverishment both of the Royal revenue and of the people of Maryland, since the tobacco exported in bulk is of so poor quality that it would not be worth the freight of exporting in cask, and so would not be worth purchasing for export; hence the planters would cease to produce such tobacco, which in England pays 5d. per lb. duty, and being never exported brings in a large revenue, whereas the better tobacco being always exported from England brings in but a small revenue. Herein the Governor and Council concurred. List of subscriptions offered by members of the House towards the erection of a free school. Order for the Committee of Laws to model a form for the bill for ports and bring the same before the House. Committee of Accounts appointed. At the instance of the Burgesses the Governor consented to postpone the Provincial Court till the Assembly should have risen. Resolved, on reading the report of the Committee of Laws, that the Acts for establishing the Protestant religion and concerning the gauge of tobacco-hogsheads be amended. The Receiver-General of the duty on imported liquors ordered to bring in his accounts. Complaints against the merchants of Pennsylvania that they will not accept payment in produce, but only in ready money at extravagant rates, for rum, goods, etc., imported by them, whereby money is made intolerably dear. Recommended that rum be imported direct from Barbados, and resolved to lay a duty on liquors imported from Pennsylvania. Adjourned to 27th.
Sept. 27. Bills as to gauge of tobacco-hogsheads, and as to an import on liquors from Pennsylvania considered. Order for delivering of the accounts of the public levy to the Committee of Accounts. The Committee of Grievances presented a further report.
Sept. 28. The grievances presented yesterday considered, and orders made thereon. The jurisdictions of County Courts, Vestry Courts, and Provincial Courts considered. Certain bills recommended in relation to the same, and their provisions discussed. Bill to forbid the transportation of inhabitants without passes read a first time. Bill for conversion of negroes rejected. Message to the Council asking for two Councillors to join the Committee for inspection of the laws. Order for Lord Baltimore's agents, Henry Darnall, Nicholas Sewall and William Digges, to attend and show by what authority they act. Further report from the Committee of Grievances.
Sept. 29. A petition to the Governor ordered, as to the seizure of sloops by the King's ships. Voted that the House meet at six o'clock in the morning. Order for a bill to appoint deputy-commissaries for matters of probate etc. in each county. Voted that two protested bills should be made good by the public. Bills as to servants' bastards, to quiet possession, for an impost of 4d. a gallon on liquors, for easing the inhabitants in testamentary affairs, and for punishment of blasphemy, fornication and adultery read a first time. Sundry petitions considered. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 326–345.]
Sept. 24. 1,339. Minutes of Council of Maryland in Assembly. The Queen's letter and Colonel Hamilton's proposals as to a post-office read. Order for the inspection of the laws; and sundry suggestions made for the Act as to divine service and for education.
Sept. 25. Several petitions from Roman Catholics for their arms to be returned to them, referred to the Burgesses. Resolved to propose laws as to catechism of children, and as to the holding and jurisdiction of Courts, as to the fees of Naval officers, to compel the marking of the bounds of every man's land, and to amend the Act as to runaway servants. Agreed to postpone the Provisional Court.
Sept. 26. Proposals sent to the House to amend the laws as to gauge of casks, and as to bastards, to empower Vestries and County Courts to make by-laws, and to amend the Militia Act. Order for a return to be made of the arms taken at Mattapany. At the request of the Burgesses Mr. Plater, the Receiver General, was ordered to attend them. The opinion of the Attorneys as to the judicial power of the Governors and Council read.
Sept. 28. The jurisdiction and constitution of Courts considered. Mr. Llewellin summoned and questioned as to the records of Sir E. Andros's proceedings. Two members appointed to join the Burgesses' Committee for inspection of the laws. Orders as to the arming and exercising of the Militia. Order for the distribution of ammunition among the several counties, there being no public magazine.
Sept. 29. Order for settlement of one or more ferries on the Potomac river. The petition of George Mason, under sentence for murder of John Payne, sent to the Assembly. Stephen Blatchford sworn Clerk Assistant of Council. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 12. pp. 262–271.]
Sept. 25.
New York.
1,340. Governor Fletcher to Sir John Trenchard. New York has the frontier of all those Colonies towards the main. There is a small garrison town called Albany and a wooden fort erected for purposes of trade. The way between Albany and Canada is wilderness—thickets, swamps, mountains and marshes, so that there is no marching with horse, artillery or dragoons. The Five Nations number about 1,300 fighting men. Though always our friends they are much wasted by the war and too sensible of the weakness of this province when they find the neighbouring Colonies give us no assistance. Without losing their affection for the English they have struck up a treaty with the French for themselves, wherein I am obliged to acquiesce for want of force. This beggarly war has cost the revenue £40,000 in the defence of the frontiers, and the tenth man on continual duty. This drives all our youth and loose people into the neighbouring provinces. In spite of the Royal orders the other Colonies refuse to assist us, so we who are next to the danger lie exposed to the burden. If the French gain over the Five Nations, Virginia and Maryland will be in danger of being laid waste, for these Indians are their only barrier. The reinforcements ordered by the King will enable me to bridle these Indians, if their pay and subsistence be duly returned. Men's labour here and everything else gives a great rate; and there is little shift to be made on the frontier, where most of the families are deserted or destroyed. I have sent home a copy of my treaty with the Indians. Our last consignment of guns I have disposed in the forts and garrisons of New York and Albany. Signed. Ben Fletcher. 2½ pp. [America and West Indies. 579. No. 40.]
Sept. 25.
Barbados.
1,341. Governor Russell to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Since my last of 30th August we have been much troubled with the privateer called the Snow, which has, we fear, taken another vessel of ours. As no man-of-war can come up with her I have persuaded the Council to fit out two prime sailers, a brigantine and a Bermuda sloop, which are here, to cruise after her with H.M.S. Bristol. To encourage the Council I offered to bear part of the expense myself and have put a hundred men of my English regiment on board of H.M. Ship Bristol, which came out from England under-manned and has lost many men from a fever which reigns both in the fleet and at Bridgetown. I have buried three of my own servants, and have five more lying sick at this time. Pray send over the rest of the regiment and urge the Admiralty to let us have a Jamaica or Bermuda sloop. They are built of cedar and whitewood, which latter the worm will not touch till it be decayed. Such vessels would be valuable to protect our trade and obtain us intelligence; they would not cost above £1,000, rigged, equipped and armed, and the merchant ships would gladly supply the necessary complement, seventy men, to man them. We also want some careening gear and Naval stores. I enclose a letter from Governor Goddard as to the affairs of Jamaica, and a sworn statement of intelligence that twenty French men of war had gone to take Barbados. This agrees with information which we obtained at Madeira. Needham's Fort is in good condition except that it has no well, only a cistern to hold rain-water. I hope to amend this, for this fort is of the greatest consequence to us. Every ship entering Carlisle Bay must tack at the fort and stand close in with it or fall to leeward. The fort is unfortunately commanded by two rocky hills one within less than a mile and the other within half a mile. The former would be the proper site for a citadel, and I wonder that one has never been built in an Island which contains 50,000 negroes, always plotting to cut the white men's throats. Should we lose Needham's Fort, we could not save the town from being bombarded or the shipping in Carlisle Bay from being burnt. I hope to persuade the Council and Assembly to enable me to put the Island into such a state of defence as to give any enemy a warm reception. The ship that carries this goes by my consent; she is a good sailer, and I think it important that you should have intelligence of the state of Jamaica. She will be convoyed as far as Deseada by H.M.S. Bristol, and our sloop and brigantine. I wish I had power to appoint a deputy here and sail to Jamaica as Captain-General with the 230 men that I brought with me. I could probably be there in a week, and I fear that without assistance the place will be lost, and then the French will ruin all the trade of the West Indies. Their cruisers to windward of this could take all their prizes to Martinique, and their cruisers off Deseada could intercept all ships trading from here to North America and Jamaica. Nor could Jamaica be retaken without great expense, hazard and difficulty. Signed. F. Russell. 2½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. 20 Feb. 1694–5. Read 22 May, 1695. Enclosed,
1,341. I. Governor Goddard to Governor Russell. The enclosed will tell you of the miserable devastations and military executions that the French have wrought in Jamaica. I pressed this sloop on purpose to give you the information. Signed. J. Goddard. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Rec. 20 Feb. 1694–5.
1,341. II. Deposition of Benjamin Burton, master of a brigantine. I arrived at Port Morant on 18 July, but seeing the house burned and the fort demolished, did not venture to land. Sending a boat ashore next day we picked up a few crippled and sick men, who gave information that on the 17th the French sailed with 19 ships, H.M.S. Falcon (which they had taken) being one of them. They had landed men and had burned and destroyed all the plantations from Cow Bay to Port Morant, carrying off 2,000 negroes and 200 white prisoners. The French had since gone to Port Royal and had said that they were sending twenty men-of-war to take Barbados. Going ashore I saw the houses burnt and destroyed and the canes and cattle dead. Following the coast six leagues to leeward I saw all the houses destroyed, but being chased by three ships made my way to Bermuda. Sworn. 27 Aug. 1694. 2 pp. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 5. Nos. 66, 66 I., II.; and(without enclosures) 44. pp. 106–113.]
Sept. 25. 1,342. John Povey to the Commissioners of Transport. Desiring their attendance at the meeting of the Committee of Trade and Plantations on the 26th inst., when the questions of medicines for the troops for Jamaica will be considered. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 63.]
Sept. 25. 1,343. John Povey to the Secretary of the Treasury. My Lords of Trade and Plantations will meet to-morrow at 5 o'clock, when they will expect to receive from the Lords of the Treasury their report on the estimates for transport of troops to Jamaica, and for medical officers. Draft. 1 p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 64.]
Sept. 26. 1,344. Minutes of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Agreed to recommend the appointment of Mr. John Murrey to be Commissary, Paymaster General, and Commissary of the Musters to the Jamaica expedition, with salary of 500l. a year, and 180l. for his clerks. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. pp. 250, 251.]
Sept. 26.
Whitehall.
1,345. John Povey to the Commissioners for Transportations. The medicines for the soldiers in passage to Jamaica will be inspected by the King's physicians. You will receive orders where the transports shall embark the men. You will also provide accommodation for Mr. Murrey and his clerks on one of the transports. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. pp. 250, 251.]
Sept. 26.
Treasury
Chamber.
1,346. Secretary to the Treasury to John Povey. The Lords of the Treasury have no objection to the appointment of Mr. Murrey to attend the expedition to Jamaica in the offices and at the salaries that have been proposed for himself and clerk, and are of opinion that £60 a year may be allowed him for an additional clerk. The salaries for the Physician and Apothecaries are also approved and the sum for victualling the men will be paid to the Victuallers (see No. 1,315). Signed. Hen. Guy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 26 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 65; and53. pp. 251, 252.]
Sept. 26. 1,347. Memorandum for John Povey. Requesting him to move the Lords that the Commissary of the expedition to Jamaica may have accommodation in the ordnance-store-ship for himself, clerks and office, and £200 allowance for equipage. Signed. John Murrey. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 26 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade Jamaica, 7. No. 66.]
Sept. 26. 1,348. John Povey to the King's Physicians. Desiring them to report what medicines will be needed for the troops in their passage to Jamaica and afterwards, to inspect the said medicines, and to recommend a physician for the expedition at £365 per annum, an apothecary at £200, and an apothecary's mate at £50. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. pp. 277, 278.]
Sept. 26. 1,349. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Memorial of the Commissioners of Transportation of 22nd inst. read, and orders given as to ascertaining about medicines and suitable physicians for the Jamaica expedition. Plymouth was appointed as the port of embarkation. The Duke of Shrewsbury reported that Colonel Lillingston's regiment was to take the place of Colonel Farringdon's, that the two regiments were to be completed by drafts from the garrison at Plymouth, and that Captain Prince's company was to go out entire to Jamaica. Mr. Clark ordered to consider what regiment shall relieve the two regiments at Plymouth. Mr. Guy's letter of this day read, and decision taken thereon.
Agreed to represent that the recruits for the Leeward Islands cannot be ready in time to sail with the convoy unless they be drafted out of the regiments in England. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 346–349.]
Sept. 26. 1,350. Minutes of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Agreed to represent that 400 recruits are required by the regiment in the Leeward Islands, which cannot be raised in time to sail under convoy of the ships of war unless they be drafted from the regiments in England. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 44. p. 187.]
Sept. 27.
Transport
Office.
1,351. Commissioners of Transport to John Povey. Enclosing a list of the transports-ships to carry the soldiers to Jamaica. Signed. John Ellis, Robt. Henley, Saml. Atkinson, John Nicholl. ½ p. Enclosed,
1,351. I. List of ships taken up for Jamaica. Ten ships in all, the largest 480 tons to carry 300 men, the smallest 78 tons, to carry 50 men. Dated. 27 Sept. 1694. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 27 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade.Jamaica, 7. Nos. 67, 67 I.; and53. p. 256.]
Sept. 27. 1,352. Order of the Queen in Council. For the appointment of John Murrey to be Commissary, Paymaster General, Commissary of the Musters, and Judge Advocate to the expedition for Jamaica, with salary at the rate of £500 a year, and £180 a year for his clerks. Signed. Richard Colinge. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. p. 254.]
Sept. 27. 1,353. Order of the Queen in Council. That the Treasury pay £800 to the regiment in the Leeward Islands out of the arrears due to it, to enable the officers to raise the recruits that are to be sent to it this year. Signed. Rich. Colinge. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 44. p. 188.]
Sept. 27. 1,354. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Order for the payment of £40 to the master of the sloop sent by Colonel Goddard from Bermuda. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 473, 474; and Board of Trade. Barbados, 65. pp. 11, 12.]
Sept. 27. 1,355. Minutes of General Assembly of New York. The Representatives not being come on the 25th nor this day, the Governor adjourned to the 5th October. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., p.696.]
Sept. 27. 1,356. Minutes of Council of New York. Various patents confirmed and payments ordered. The Attorney General on being questioned as to the trial of John Reaux, asked for time to prepare evidence.
Sept. 28. Letter from Bermuda received as to the French attack on Jamaica. Order for copies to be sent to the neighbouring Colonies, and for the great guns to be mounted.
Sept. 29. On the petition of poor French Protestants at New Rochelle, they were excused the immediate payment of their tax and allowed to pay it in two instalments within twelve months. The Indians of Suffolk appeared and were chidden for their suspicions and reassured of protection. Colonel Charles Lodowyck nominated Mayor of New York for next year. Further payment of £200 to Peter Schuyler ordered. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 565–568.]
Sept. 28. 1,357. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Petition of Captain Weems read, and order given therein.
Mr. Usher's letter of 16 June read.
Petition of Paul Brisack read, and petitioner referred to his legal remedy. Colonel Lillingston's memorial was read, and he was directed to give an estimate for the saddles which he requires. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 350–353.]
[Sept. 28.] 1,358. Petition of Captain James Weems. I was in command of the frontier garrison at Pemaquid when the people of Boston assumed the Government and disbanded three companies which were in the King's pay and under my command at that place. I wrote to the Convention of Boston, who asked me to continue the defence of the place, promising me men and money, which never came. At last after four months I was attacked by a great body of French and Indians, and having lost all my men but eight and being myself disabled, I was obliged to capitulate and leave all that I had, to the value of £300. I went to Boston to demand my disbursements, but was told that I must claim them of the Crown. I have ever since been on service in Flanders, and having now a commission to raise a company for New York, I beg for an order to the Governor of Boston that the amount justly due to myself and my company, £172, may be discharged. 1 p. Inscribed. Read, 28 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 76.]
Sept. 28. 1,359. Minutes of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Agreed to refer Captain Weems's petition to the Governor of New England for payment of what is justly due to him. [Board of Trade. New York, 48. p. 182.]
Sept. 28. 1,360. Memorial of Colonel Luke Lillingston to the Lords of Trade and Plantations. I have been appointed to command the expedition to Jamaica in the quality of General, but I submit that with the bare pay of Colonel I cannot appear as becomes my post and commission, and I leave the matter in your hands. I beg that while the forces are abroad the officers may be allowed full pay, the contrary of which was only a discouragement in the last expedition. Several officers suffered from want of money to buy fresh provisions, so that I myself have given 38s. at St. Christophers for a small sheep, not fat, and 18s. for a lean turkey. I beg that the late Commissary may clear accounts with the regiment for the late expedition, which cost 30 per cent. on the money they received for subsistence, owing to the bad coin in which they were paid. This can be proved by a bag of the money, which was sealed and brought to England. I beg also that the Commissary may issue no stores but by my order, and that I may have sole inspection and responsibility for them; that the men may have muskets and bandoliers in exchange for pikes; that money may be appointed for me to supply a new clothing; and that 200 saddles and bridles may be issued to me by the Ordnance. I shall be better able to judge what further stores are needed when I have inspected those already ordered at the Tower, which I shall do to-morrow. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed, Read, 28 Sept. '94. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 68; and53. pp. 264, 265.]
Sept. 29.
Transport
Office.
1,361. Commissioners of Transportation to John Povey. The Admiralty have not been informed when the transports for the Jamaica expedition will be ready to sail from Gravesend, viz. on the 15th October. If they be not advertised in time the ships may be kept in the Downs from want of convoy to protect them in their voyage to the port where the men are to be embarked. The notice will have more weight if it comes from the Lords of Trade and Plantations. The masters of the ships have been ordered to send their surgeons to you to receive your directions as to medicines. Signed. John Nicholl, Saml. Atkinson, John Ellis, Robt. Henley. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. the same day. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 69; and53. p. 263.]
Sept. 29. 1,362. John Povey to Commissioners of Transport. I have received yours to-day. The Lords desire copies of the charter-parties and an account of the readiness of the ships from you at next meeting that they may give the necessary directions to the Admiralty. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 70.]