America and West Indies: March 1698, 21-31

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 16, 1697-1698. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1905.

'America and West Indies: March 1698, 21-31', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 16, 1697-1698, (London, 1905) pp. 140-160. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol16/pp140-160 [accessed 5 May 2024]

March 1698



March 21. Cookpit.	307. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor the Earl of Bellomont. Calling his attention to the harbouring of pirates in the Colonies, and forwarding copy of the Jamaica Act against pirates as a model. You will pass some such Act in New Hampshire as well as in Massachusetts, as previously ordered, and we think that the Acts existing for the purpose in New York and Massachusetts are not so effectual as they ought to be. We have received yours from Barbados of 8 January. We hope that the close of your voyage will be more fortunate, and await your report as to the Eastern Indians. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, Jno. Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. New York, 52. pp. 306–309.]
March 21. Cockpit.	308. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Codrington. The King has given orders that the Acts made for increasing the number of white men in the Colonies should be strictly executed, and that they shall, if possible, be amended if defective. We forward also the Jamaica Act against pirates that it may be adopted if necessary in the Leeward Islands, and you will take care that the laws against pirates be strictly executed. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 45. pp. 171–173.]
March 21. Cockpit.	309. Circular. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Governors. Great complaints have reached us lately from the East Indies and other quarters of the mischief wrought by pirates, and of the encouragement which they have received in several of the Colonies in America, both in their fitting out from thence and their return thereto as a safe receptacle. The King has therefore directed copies of a Jamaica Act for restraining and punishing of pirates to be sent to all his Governors in America, and he requires all those Governors to use their utmost endeavours with their Assemblies for the passing of a similar Act, and to enforce the same vigilantly when passed. A copy of the Act is enclosed to you, and you will report to us your proceedings thereon. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 37. pp. 200–202. Maryland, 9. pp. 177–178.]
March 21. Whitehall.	310. Council of Trade and Plantations to William Penn, the Proprietors of the Bahamas and Carolina and the Governments of Connecticut and Rhode Island. Urging the passing of Acts for the suppression of pirates and forwarding the Jamaica Act as a model. [Board of Trade. Proprieties, 25. pp. 200–201.]
March 21.	311. Council of Trade and Plantations to the President and Council of Barbados. Directing that the laws enacted for increasing the number of white men in the Island be strictly enforced, and amended if they be defective. Also forwarding copies of the Jamaica Act against pirates, with recommendations to procure its enactment. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, William Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. Postscript.—We have just received yours of 12 January, to which we need only answer at present that we shall recommend the punctual payment of the bills mentioned by you, if there be occasion. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 44. pp. 143–145.]
March 21.	312. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Sir William Beeston. The same letter as the above without the postscript. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 56. pp. 181–183.]
March 21.	313. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. Circulars as to white servants and laws against pirates signed.
	Letter of 12 January from the President and Council of Barbados read, and a postscript added to the circular of this day's date, in reply.
	Agreed to defer the representation upon Mr. Day's memorial.
	Business of Newfoundland further considered.
March 23.	Mr. Way's memorial of the 18th inst. read (No. 303).
	Letter of 15th January from the Assembly of Nevis read, and consideration thereof deferred.
March 24.	Mr. George Shuttleworth attended to represent that he was the person who last summer carried a letter from Conception Bay to St. John's, Newfoundland, with information of Mons. Pointis being there. He was told that his petition, being addressed to the King, ought to pass through the hands of a Secretary of State. [Board of Trade. Journal, 11. pp. 1–6.]
March 21.	314. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Nathaniel Byfield produced a commission as Judge of Admiralty and asked to be sworn, but it was ordered that he be not sworn till Lord Bellomont arrive. Joseph Grant obtained leave to erect a timber-shed in Boston. Order for payment of £6 to Colonel Elisha Hutchinson for expenses of his journey when setting out to pursue the Indians
March 22.	Resolved to send an address to the King setting forth the inconvenience of his late order granting the right of appeal to Customs officers. [Board of Trade. New England, 49. pp. 144–146.]
March 21.	315. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Order for the prosecution of John Coode's sureties. The Governor was urged to signify to the Council of Trade the lack of members of Council, owing to the recent death of two of them. A petition and report respecting a seized sloop were referred to the law officers.
March 22.	The complaint of a ship's master, that he had been required to make a second entry when he thought one sufficient, was heard; and it was resolved that the proceedings against him be cancelled and his ship restored to him. Order for cancelling all former proclamations encouraging the export of provisions to Newfoundland. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 13. pp. 432–435.]
March 21.	316. Journal of House of Delegates of Maryland. Bills to restrain extortions of sheriffs, to appoint County Court days, to revive Cecil County Court's process, read a second time and sent to Council. Bills for stay of executions and for better ordering of St. Paul's and Shrewsbury parishes read a first time and committed. On a letter to the Governor reporting the endeavours of Popish priests to make proselytes, an address was sent asking the Governor to issue a proclamation to restrain them. On a proposal of the Governor to ascertain the method of holding Assemblies, it was resolved to continue in the present form, and as experience is gained to draw nearer to the practice of Parliament. Further report of the Committee of Grievances and orders thereupon. Message from the Governor summoning the House to attend him. Answer of the Delegates, asking to be excused owing to the illness of the Speaker for a day or two, and representing that only one point in the matter of Indian affairs remains undecided.
March 22.	Message from the Governor consenting to postpone the Conference, but reminding the Delegates that there were many other things besides Indian affairs before them. Message from the Council asking for a joint committee to prepare a new Militia Bill. Answer of the Delegates, that they have resolved that the old Militia Act should remain unaltered. Bills empowering the county justices to levy money for the charges of other counties, and the bill as to St. Paul's and Shrewsbury parishes were read twice and sent to Council, together with the bill for stay of executions. The Delegates rejected the Council's proposal for a bill to decide disputes between masters and servants, but referred another proposal to the Committee of Laws. The Council's proposals for laws to restrain seamen, for regulation of ordinaries, for securing letters and for care of orphans were also rejected as unnecessary.
March 23.	The proposals of the Council as to storage of records and prisons were considered and rejected. Proposals to cut down the trees left in the middle of the roads rejected. Agreed that it would be well to issue a proclamation that Protestant servants of Popish masters shall have liberty to go to church. Proposal for a law to declare that the province has paid all debts and claims, in order to bar fictitious claims, rejected. Bill for rectifying the ill-practices of attorneys read a first time. Address to the Governor as to repeal of certain laws, approved. Bill to secure the parochial libraries read a first time. Bills to revise process of Cecil County Court, to restrain extortions of sheriffs, for stay of executions, to enable county justices to levy rates for county charges, and to divide St. Paul's and Shrewsbury parishes, read a third time and sent to Council. Journal of Committee of Accounts read, and a bill ordered to be drawn thereupon.
March 24.	Bill as to attorneys read a second time. Report of the committee on the church and free schools read. Message from the Council in answer to the Delegates' message about the Indians, that the House shall never have reason to say that he wishes to put the country to unnecessary expense. Message from the Council that Mr. Mason should be called upon to produce his accounts. Answer of the Delegates, that the House is satisfied with the returns that he has made already. Conferrers sent up to the Council on the business of settling the Collectors. Message from the Council. As to the Delegates' message respecting the King's lawyers, the Governor has no wish to shelter them from justice if they have done wrong, but he thinks that to fine them without any known law would be a dangerous precedent. He brings to the notice of the House a more real grievance, viz., the levying of tobacco by County Justices contrary to law. As to James Cranford, he has been restored to practice in honour of the peace, but if the Delegates are not satisfied that it is the King's prerogative to suspend attorneys they may lay the case before the Council of Trade. The Council desires to know whether the Delegates were unanimous in that address as they seem to set forth. Message ends. Message from the Council suggesting an amendment to the bill to appoint Court days. Resolved to instruct the Conferrers not to accept it. Message to the Council. In reply to your message concerning the King's lawyers, you seem to reflect that we are partial in representing this grievance, though you know that we have introduced a bill to remedy it. We have as great a respect for the Royal prerogative as you, and we expected from you a more satisfactory answer. We shall therefore leave the vote upon our Journals to assert our liberties. Your question as to our unanimity in the Address is so unparliamentary that we must decline to answer it. Further address to the Governor. We-think the matter of the Piscattaway Indians so inconsiderable that we do not much regard whether they come in or stay out. We leave it to your judgement whether you write to Sir Edmund Andros, but we think it not expedient to prohibit these Indians from going to and fro in this province, so long as they conduct themselves peaceably. As a means to induce them to come in, we suggest that the rangers at frontier of Potomac may be called in, or that they may be so stationed as to strengthen the frontier posts. Address ends. Motion made for a committee to examine Gerard Slye's articles against the Governor.
March 25.	Address to the Governor. We beg to represent that the justices and vestrymen of several counties have been arrested and brought to Annapolis as grievous offenders, for very small faults. The Provincial Court sitting in view strikes attorneys, jurors and suitors with an awful fear which is a restraint on liberty. Address ends. Charles Carroll, of Lord Baltimore's land office, and Sir Thomas Laurence's clerk appeared, pursuant to summons, but their dispute was referred to next Assembly. Bill to define the boundaries between Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties, and Eliza Norman's private bill were read a first and second time.
March 26.	Journal of Committee of Accounts read. The Council's proposals on several matters debated, and resolutions passed, among others, to evade the Council's request to peruse the Journal of the Committee of Grievances, to give orders respecting presenting the King with certain wild birds, etc., to decline to have the laws put into after language or amended by lawyers, and to refuse to appoint an Agent for the Colony in England. Resolved to address the King on the happy conclusion of peace and to write a letter of thanks to the Archbishop of Canterbury. Message from the Governor. Mr. Mason has been several times ordered to bring his accounts in, and the Council looking upon his failure to do so thinks him unfit for his station of Treasurer. Naval Officers who in like manner fail of their duty will also be displaced. Second message from the Governor, saying that the Council for the present postpones its answer as to Indian affairs till it has received the report of the Committee. Resolved thereupon to send that report to the Council. Third message from the Governor. The address as to grievances cannot be answered until the Journal of the Committee of Grievances is sent up, and several other proposals answered. Answers of the Delegates, that they decline to send the Journal as requested. They are also satisfied with Mr. Mason's integrity and cannot consent to his being displaced. Resolved that the Secretary and Chancellor shall be allowed 150lbs. of tobacco a day during their attendance on the Council in Assembly, but shall receive no other salary. Philip Lynes's claim for entertaining several persons summoned to attend Governor Copley in 1692, rejected. Other petitions considered. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 15. pp. 229–252.]
March 21.	317. Minutes of Council of Maryland in Assembly. The Governor summoned the Delegates to attend on the business of the Indians; but the house had adjourned. Three bills received from the Delegates, also addresses respecting the Rangers, the ill-practices of Popish priests, and the necessity for postponing a conference owing to the Speaker's illness. Remarked that this postponement is an unparliamentary proceeding. Report of the Indian Committee read. Bill for restraining extortions of sheriffs read and additional clauses proposed. Bill for reviving Cecil County Court's process read and amendments proposed.
March 22.	Message to the Delegates desiring a joint committee on the Militia Bill, and their reply (see preceding abstract). Order for restoration of a ship seized in Patuxent river. Bill for stay of executions read a second time; bills for dividing St. Paul's and Shrewsbury parishes and for enabling County Justices to levy money, read a first time.
March 23.	Mr. Mason's letter and accounts considered. Resolved that if he cannot discharge his duties, another Treasurer should be appointed. Accounts sworn to. The bills as to St. Paul's and Shrewsbury parishes, to empower County Justices to levy money, to revive Cecil County Court's process, to restrain extortions of sheriffs and to stay executions, passed their second reading. Bill as to parochial libraries read a first time. Conference desired with the Delegates about settling Courts. The resolutions of the Delegates upon several proposals were read (see preceding abstract) and the following remarks made thereupon. Servants have no redress against their masters by way of petition. A conference is desired on the questions of ordinary-keepers, securing letters and the Militia Bill. The Council further asked for the Journal of the Committee of Grievances, and for answers as to the question of appointing an Agent in England and for employing an able lawyer in England to improve the wording of the laws. The Council's answer to the Delegates' address concerning the King's lawyers (see preceding abstract). Proposals to the Delegates that the Governor of New York be informed as to the wandering Indians at the head of Potomac, and that some way be settled for the distribution of the expected arms and ammunition. Order for the contract for building the church and school to be laid before the Delegates. Address to the Governor from the Delegates as to redress of grievances read. Heads of the matters to be discussed at the Conference with the Indians. Message to the Delegates concerning their address about the Indians.
March 24.	Several messages sent down to the Delegates. Bill respecting Attorneys received from the Delegates and a conference desired thereon. Conferences as to settling Courts; wherein the two houses could not agree. Conference of both houses on the business of the Indians. The Speaker hoped that if the Piscattaways did not come in, the Governor would not therefore make war on them; to which the Governor replied that if they did not come in he could not consider them otherwise than as enemies. Message from the Delegates summoning Sir Thomas Laurence to appear before them, on which the Delegates were informed that he could not obey such summons without the Governor's leave. It was remarked that the practice of clerks keeping county records at their own houses was inconvenient and dangerous, and that County Courts ought not to be kept as ordinaries. Resolved that it is a matter of absolute necessity to publish a proclamation that the country has satisfied all public claims. Letter from Sir Thomas Laurence enclosing a letter written by him to the Speaker, in which he says that he does not recognise the Delegates' authority to summon a Councillor to them without the Governor's leave, but that he sends his clerk to give the information required.
March 25.	Addresses from the Delegates concerning the Piscattaway Indians and Mr. Mason, and as to the Governor's reply to their address concerning the King's lawyers. Message from the Governor proposing to displace Mason. Bill for dividing Anne Arundel and Baltimore Counties received and read a first time. Eliza Norman's private bill received; resolved not to pass it without perusal of all the documents relating to it. Message from the Delegates declining to consider a Militia Bill, and an address as to the arrest of justices and others. Message to the Delegates disclaiming all responsibility for evil consequences that may result from not passing the Militia Bill.
March 26.	Conferrers appointed for the business about ordinary-keepers and securing letters. Agreed that inns should be kept at all ports and Court-houses and on the roads, and the inns on the roads, for their encouragement, shall pay a reduced licence. Agreed that the Governor issue a proclamation forbidding any persons to receive letters from masters of ships without giving a receipt for them and undertaking under penalties to deliver them. Report of the Committee on Indian affairs read and approved. Messages from the Delegates disapproving the dismissal of Mason, refusing to send the journal of grievances, declining to alter the procedure of Assembly, and asking for a fresh account of the arms, that now before them being unsatisfactory. Messages from the Governor requiring categorical answers from the Delegates to the report of the Committee on Indian affairs; and maintaining the right of the Council to peruse the Journal of the Committee of Grievances. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 14. pp. 263–293.]
March 22.	318. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Orders for sundry payments on account of salaries and disbursements for military service. Mr. Talbot Edwards produced a letter from the Board of Ordnance, expressing their desire that all possible assistance should be given to him towards despatching his survey of the Island. Mr. Heberlands was summoned and asked why the survey had not been finished, he having received all assistance that he desired ever since October last. He answered that his survey of the Island and bays would be complete in four weeks. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 65. pp. 343–345.]
March 23.	319. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Thomas Finch presented a deputation from the surviving patentee of the Receiver-General's office. Order for a full Council on the 29th to consider the matter. Order for distribution of £100 of the King's bounty, and for £50 more to be paid to Colonel Stanton from the same. Orders for sundry payments, including one for reimbursement of two Englishmen who had transported themselves to Jamaica. Order for the Naval Officers and others concerned in the Customs to attend next Council to give the security and take the oath appointed by the Act of Parliament. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 79. pp. 80–82.]
March 24.	320. Minutes of Council of Nevis. Order for issue of writs for the election of an Assembly. Two grants of land were passed. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 64. pp. 464–465.]
March 24.	321. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Antigua. On this day, as on the 10th inst., the Assembly adjourned for want of a full Council. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 64. p. 251.]
March 24.	322. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Peter Jenings laid some difficulties in his instructions before the Council, who resolved that at present one of his instructions could not be complied with. He then presented and swore to his accounts; after which it was agreed to recommend to the Governor that particular ports for loading and unloading should be appointed, which would end the difficulty. Order for a new Commission of the peace to be issued for Cecil County. Order as to bonds to be given and oaths to be taken by Naval Officers.
March 26.	Several lists of shipping sworn to. Orders as to registry of one ship and entry of another.
March 28.	Further lists of shipping sworn to. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 13. pp. 435–437.]
March 25.	323. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. The Address to the King on the permission of appeals to Customs-officers was agreed to and ordered to be engrossed. [Board of Trade. New England, 49. p. 151.]
March 25. Boston.	324. John Usher to Council of Trade and Plantations. Since my last a vessel has been privately loaded with oars and despatched by Mr. Partridge and those in the rebellion with a packet for Whitehall. I know not what they have writ, but if they desire confirmation of the present Government, that Government is antimonarchical. Partridge; by entering on the Government unqualified, is for ever incapable, besides the £1,000 penalty. No doubt you will give me opportunity to answer any complaints against myself, though I can charge myself with nothing but asserting the King's prerogative. If they have asked for remission of the £1,000 fine, I can only say that they knew it must be paid, and that Partridge has taken bonds from several for payment thereof. But, with submission, I think that a far greater sum than £1,000 is due for the affront and indignity put on the Lords Justices' orders. If they ask for pardon under the notion of mistake or misinformation, I answer that they know they have done what is wrong, and that the crime is no less than rebellion, but that they hope to escape the consequences through their distance from England. The orders from Whitehall were published publicly in several places, so they cannot plead misinformation. Since my departure they have bound my sheriff over in £200 to good behaviour, turned out the loyal officers of militia, put in such as are against Kingly Government and set up a little commonwealth. I have tried to execute the King's Commission and several orders, but I am laughed at. Had I but fifty men I would soon try the power, but cannot do so alone. I am informed that their reason for new modelling the militia is to resist Lord Bellomont's coming by force of arms, for they say that Partridge's commission and Lord Bellomont's are on equal ground for the King, and that they shall show good reasons before they submit. That is to say, unless their rebellion be countenanced, the usurpers of the Government continued, and no penalty be imposed on them, Lord Bellomont may come at his peril. You may think what I have written too harsh and out of grudge. If their actions be right, let them be excused; but if they be against the King's honour and dignity, let them be dealt with according to their demerit. No news of Lord Bellomont yet. Signed, John Usher. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. Read 25 May, 1698. [Board of Trade. New England, 9. No. 13; and 36. pp. 382–384.]
March 25.	325. Francis Eyles to William Popple. Of the two packets received from you about a month since one was put on board the Lecx (sic) frigate, and the other on the Ryswick, bound to Barbados. The latter is not yet gone, and has also one of the packets sent by you on the 23rd inst. The other shall be sent by the first ship that follows. Signed, Fran. Eyles. ¼ p. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 7. No. 63.]
March 28. Boston.	326. Increase Mather to William Blathwayt. Thank you for yours of 6 February, 1696–7. May I beg for your favour with respect to the College. I should have been with you before this, were it not necessary for me to await the Governor's arrival before starting, in order to have his concurrence and countenance in that for which I am to solicit. This last week we hear that he is at Barbados, his ship having been blown off this coast. Pray improve your interest at court that the law for incorporating Harvard College (which was sent over this winter) may not come under consideration until I am with you, which I hope to be in July or August next. Signed, Increase Mather. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. Read 30 May, 1698. [Board of Trade. New England, 9. No. 14.]
March 28. Whitehall.	327. Mr. Secretary Vernon to Council of Trade and Plantations. I have laid before the King your representation of 18th inst. as to the instructions for the commander of the squadron to be employed for the suppression of pirates in the East Indies. You will inform yourselves from the East India Company how this squadron shall be supplied with provisions when the stores they carry with them shall be expended, and in what places they may depend upon being furnished with the said provisions, which the King expects should be under their care. As to the passing of an Act of Parliament here for the more easy and speedy trial of pirates, the King would have you consult the Attorney and Solicitor-General as to the heads of such a bill and lay the same before him. You will consider whether by the said bill the support and encouragement given to pirates by the American Colonies may not be prevented. As to the proposed Treaty with the Emperor of Morocco, you think that it would be of less use than to employ two or three light ships to cruise in proper stations to intercept the Sallee men-of-war. The King is informed that some ships of this sort are to go with Vice-Admiral Aylmer. Signed, Ja. Vernon. 2 pp. Endorsed, Recd. Read 28 March, 1698. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 4. No. 102; and 34. pp. 261–262.]
March 28.	328. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. Governor Goddard's letter of 22 September read.
	Business of Newfoundland further considered.
March 29.	Colonel Gibsone attended on the business of Newfoundland. Representations thereupon agreed to.
	The Governor of the East India Company attended, when Mr. Secretary Vernon's letter of yesterday as to the victualling of the East India Squadron was read to them, and an extract from the same given to them for their answer in writing.
	Mr. John Smith presented a memorial proposing to discover a silver mine in an uninhabited part of the King's dominions in America.
March 30.	Sir Charles Hedges attending was directed to draft an Act for the easier trial of pirates in the King's dominions.
	On the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor it was agreed to recommend the appointment of John Corbet to the Council of Antigua.
	Representation as to Newfoundland signed (No. 333).
March 31.	Mr. Simon Cole presented Mr. John Pym's letter of 19th inst. and the Council drew up and signed a representation thereupon.
	Memorial from the East India Company received of this day's date (No. 342) and sent to Mr. Secretary Vernon.
	The representation as to Mr. John Corbet signed. [Board of Trade. Journal, 11. pp. 8–14.]
March 28.	329. Journal of House of Delegates of Maryland. Sundry petitions considered. The Governor's message, disclaiming the Council's responsibility for any evil results of not passing the Militia Bill, and forwarding the heads of the proposed bill, read. Motion that the heads be referred to next session rejected. Messages to the Council upholding the right of the Delegates not to transmit the Journal of the Committee of Grievances, and expressing an opinion that their answer to the report of the Indian Committee was sufficient. Address to the King on the peace approved. Supplementary bill to the Act for regulating Ordinaries read a first time; Peter Dowdee's Naturalisation bill read twice. Resolved that sloops and boats belonging to the Colony which have permits and have given security may take in tobacco without further permit or report to the Collectors or Naval Officers, provided this be not repugnant to the late Act of Parliament. Bill for a Court to be held in Cecil County read a first time; supplementary bill to the Act for Ordinaries read a second time. These bills with several other papers were sent up to the Council, with an address complaining that the accounts of the arms were unsatisfactory.
March 29.	The bills sent up yesterday were returned from the Council, and the amendments thereto were accepted. Message from the Governor and Council saying that the grievances of the province ought first and principally to be communicated to the Governor and Council, and asking for the journal of the same. Answer of the Delegates, declining to lay the grievances of the country before the Governor and Council in any other way than they have done. Message from the Governor again asking for a categorical reply to the report of the Indian Committee. Answer of the Delegates asking that they may not be unnecessarily detained any further on account of this matter. Certain proposals of the Council considered, and answered as follows. We think it unnecessary to pass an Act to confirm what has been done in altering the methods of the Assembly, and we disagree as to passing an Act against those who entice people from the province. The explanation of our vote on the Militia Bill is that it should not be referred for consideration at all. The Act alluded to in our resolution respecting sloops and boats is the late Act for preventing frauds. Our note respecting ferries is to apply to them all. Answers end. Several questions in the letter of the Council of Trade considered, upon which it was resolved as follows. We cannot encourage the settling of disbanded soldiers unless they are traders or possess sufficient stock to procure land, etc. We think that, in view of our poverty, an Agent for the province in England would be wholly useless. White servants who have served their time are well looked on and are provided by their masters with clothing and necessaries for one year. The industrious and frugal thrive, and the negligent and careless have the same fate here as elsewhere. Bill to decide disputes between masters and servants read a first time. Sundry petitions considered.
March 30.	Bill as to masters and servants received from the Council and read a third time. The Council desired a conference on the bill concerning Attorneys. Message from the Governor commanding the House, since it will not pass an Act to confirm the Assembly's proceedings, to answer four of Gerard Slye's articles categorically, since, if they be true, the proceedings since that time must be erroneous. Resolved that the House will not answer, since it conceives that it is not affected by Slye's difference with the Governor. Message sent to the Governor accordingly. On a further proposal of the Council, resolved to adhere to the previous resolution against making a law to restrain the enticing of people from the province. On the Council's remonstrance that it cannot treat the grievances of the country as such, while presented to it as at present, resolved that if the Governor think thus, he denies the Delegates their rights. As to the Governor's command that the Delegates answer the report of the Indian Committee categorically, resolved that the Delegates have made a sufficient answer and desire that they may not again be pressed herein. Bill for a public levy read once; bill to revive expiring laws read twice. The Attorneys' Bill passed third reading.
March 31.	Act to continue expiring laws received from the Council, and the amendments agreed to; the Attorneys' Bill also received. Message from the Council. The four articles of Slye against the Governor, if true, affect the whole Government, so the Governor thinks that he has the right to command your compliance to his orders in respect thereof. Answer of the Delegates, that they adhere to their former resolution in the matter. Message from the Council, disclaiming all responsibility for the consequences of not passing an Act to prevent people from being enticed from the province. Further message from the Council. An answer is requested to the question whether a letter shall be sent to the Governor of New York respecting the Indians. If you think that the Susquehannah Indians are outside this Government, the Governor will have nothing to do with them. Answer of the Delegates. We think a letter to the Governor of New York unnecessary, and we do think the Susquehannah Indians outside this Government. Fourteen bills passed through the final stage. Message from the Council. We have gone carefully through the messages exchanged over Indian affairs and find you have given no answer whether the proceedings of the Indian Committee appointed last October are approved or not, nor whether the letters from Sir Edmund Andros and his Council are well or ill. You say you think the Piscattaways inconsiderable enemies: the inhabitants on the frontier think otherwise. If hostilities should ensue, the Governor thinks that some of you who hold that opinion should accompany him. He wishes he could see reason to dismiss the rangers, and does not doubt that if the Piscattaways were resident in this Government he could reduce them to obedience. Also he thinks that when he issues orders in the King's name and not contrary to law, all persons should obey them. If you desire to end the Session, you should do what you met together to perform. Message ends. Answer of the Delegates, that they adhere to their former resolves, and ask that they may not be longer detained on account of these questions. Further message from the Council. You have given no direct answer whether the negotiations with the Susquehannah Indians shall proceed, as ordered by last Assembly, or not. If you do not confirm that order, it will not be acted on. Sir Thomas Laurence represented to the Speaker certain matters concerning fees to be paid in the Plantation Office. The House was of opinion that it had sufficiently qualified Mr. Povey to deal therewith.
April 1.	Journal of the Committee of Accounts read, and resolutions passed thereon. Message to the Governor asking for sanction of certain payments out of the money now in bank. Answer of the Governor refusing to comply, owing to the House's refusal to obey the directions of the Council of Trade, to appoint an Agent, to employ a lawyer to improve the laws, and to make any allowance for payment for business done for the country. Further message from the Governor. The bill to continue expiring laws differs from that which we sent down, therefore we require the original for comparison. The address to the King is neither written handsomely nor on good paper. Two sheets of gilt paper are sent herewith; but it may be necessary to add some further clause respecting Lord Baltimore's rumoured restoration. Answer of the Delegates. The alteration in the bill referred to was accidental; we send the original. The address shall be re-written, but the rumour as to Lord Baltimore gains credit, so we think it would be presumption to address the King on the subject. Answer ends. A mistake being found in Mr. Mason's accounts, resolved that no advantage shall be taken by reason of mistake in any numerical figures. Orders as to payments. Message from the Governor as to the levy-bill, and a second message enclosing copy of part of his instructions to show why he cannot assent to the bill to revive expiring laws in its present form. Answer of the Delegates, that if the Governor cannot pass the bill, they cannot consent to alter it. Criticisms of the Council on certain items of the accounts, and the Delegates' answer thereto. Message to the Governor, asking him to end the Session, as all business was done.
April 2.	Message from the Governor, saying that since the House will not alter the bill to revive expiring laws, he cannot pass it. As to Mr. Sewell's sermon, for which the Delegates refused an allowance, the Council think themselves as good judges as the Delegates. The gross reflections upon the Council, pretended to be razed from the Resolutions, are very ill-resented and call for public satisfaction. The Clerk of the Council ought to receive the same allowance for assistance as the Clerk of the Delegates; and the Governor is resolved to assent to no allowances that are not equal and just. Meanwhile the Delegates have neglected the letters from the Navy Office and Ordnance Office, and the answer to be sent to Mr. Bray. Protested bills cannot be allowed to stand in accounts. It is proposed that the Council and Provincial Justices be paid out of the overplus tobacco. The Governor expected that some remarks would have been made on Mr. Plater's and Mr. Muschamp's accounts, which has not been done. As to the joint Committee to apportion the public levy, Lord Baltimore's precedent will not be accepted. The Council think they have a right to a voice therein as also in the Committee of Accounts; and if the Councillors first nominated be not inserted first on the Committee for the levy, the levy bill will not be passed. As to putting an end to the Session, this would have been done long ago, had the Delegates accepted the methods proposed to them. Message ends. Answer of the Delegates. As to Mr. Sewell, it is for us to disburse the public money, and we are the best judges. We erased certain passages of our Journal from tenderness to the feelings of the Council. As to your Clerk and what you call a Committee, the people summoned by you durst not debate freely, having no authority from the country; we can therefore make no allowance to your Clerk for his services therein. The salary that we fixed for him was understood to cover all his claims. We cannot answer the letter of the Navy Office without reference to Mr. Edward Randolph. We have sent for Mr. Bray's letter. As to the protested bill we hope that for the honour of the House you will allow payment thereof. As to the payment of the Councillors we agree, so far as the overplus tobacco will extend. We also agree to your proposal as to the levy law. We make use of no precedents of Lord Baltimore's time. Two of the Council were added to the Committee of Accounts, but not admitted, being denied their votes; nor did they ever sit on the Levy Committee till last Assembly. Not being elected they have no right to dispose of the public assessments, and if you will not consent to the law as proposed, we can consent to no alteration. We have always answered your proposals according to the sense of this House, if not always to your satisfaction. We do not think it worth our while to look back over the accounts of Governor Copley's time. Answer ends. Report of the Committee on the threepence per hogshead for arms read and sent up to Council. Message from the Governor to the House to attend him, after which the following speech and proposals from the Governor were considered. We think that your Address concerning the King's lawyers has been answered sufficiently, indeed too mildly, considering that you call the Royal prerogative in question. Read Coke's report on the case of Lord Chief Justice Heath. You mention your rights and liberties. The Governor would be glad to know the particulars of them, and would recommend you to study those enumerated in an Act of Parliament of the first year of William and Mary. I know of no custom in this country which amounts to common law; if you know of such you are required to shew it. I do not believe that such an Address was assented to by all the Delegates; I should have been informed of the number of yeas and noes. As to your serjeant-at-arms, I know of no such officer and take it as high presumption that he takes such a title. As to your leaving your vote on your journal, it will remain a monument of your despotic inclination, of which your resolution on Mr. Lynes's petition, which would determine a point of law contrary to Act of Assembly, and several more of your actions, are examples. There are many uncertainties and inconveniences in your votes. We have passed all your addresses and resolves about grievances; but the practice in Virginia is for the inhabitants to set up their grievances under their hands at the Court houses, for the Burgesses to carry up to the Assembly. Unless you can so authenticate your alleged grievances, they can only be taken as evidence of malice and sedition. You represent the arrest of several justices and vestrymen as a grievance. I desire to know their names, so that, if they have been illegally treated, they shall have right and justice done them. You do not imagine that justices and vestrymen are not amenable to the law. I pledged myself at the opening of the Session to support all men employed under the King here, if they behaved themselves well, and if there be anything wanting that is reasonable I will pass a law to that effect. But the reason why many justices and vestrymen are contemned by the vulgar is that they suffer themselves to be abused in open Court, permit swearing, quarrelling and drunkenness in Court times, and in five counties have allowed themselves tobacco out of the County-levy contrary to law. I am surprised to hear that my sitting in view of the Provincial Court strikes terror into attorneys, jurors and suitors. It cannot do so to honest men, though I hope that it may to knaves. Some of the Kings of England have sat in Westminster Hall, and have attended Courts as spectators, and I do not understand what you mean by being restrained from your liberty, for I hope that I have not been guilty of injustice in or out of the Courts. If I have, I wish you to prove it. As to the expiring laws, your opinion that a prorogation is in strictness of law the end of an Assembly seems to be odd, dangerous and unprecedented, and if I should comply with your request to collect the imposition laid by five certain laws I should be guilty of dispensing with those laws. As to your reproach, that I will not redress your grievances and that I deny your rights, if you can accuse me of such things, I expect you to do so to the King or the Council of Trade. Message ends. Further message of the Governor in Council. On the answer received from you to-day (1) We cannot take the blame if the bill to revive expiring laws be not passed, for the passing of it as it stands would be contrary to the Royal instructions, which have been communicated to you. (2) As to Mr. Sewell, you have the power of raising money, but not of disposing of it without the consent of the Governor and Council. (3) As to your reflections on the Council, your answer is as ill-resented as the reflections themselves. (4) As to the Committee on Indian affairs, I have the right to summon any number of men for the King's service. If the report that they durst not debate freely be not proved on oath, I look upon it as false and scandalous. (5) As to our Clerk, he was placed on the same footing as the Clerk of the Delegates, and if extra allowance be made to the one, it ought to be made to the other. (6) As to the protested bill, it does not consist with the honour of your House that the matter should be referred. (7) The payment of the Council from the overplus tobacco is not assented to unless they be proportionately allowed out of the same. (8) I cannot assent to the levy law unless the number of Councillors already nominated be inserted in the bill, or unless (as in Virginia) the levy is apportioned in Assembly time. (9) The Governor denies that he keeps you here to constrain you to measures contrary to your wishes. Such an accusation should be made to the King or the Council of Trade. Message ends. Answer of the Delegates. We have considered your remarks and proposals, and on perusing our votes and proceedings find them so modest that we see no reason to recede from them and shall leave them on our journals. The words serjeant-at-arms were a mistake, and ought to have been "a messenger in the nature of a serjeant-at-arms." We have acknowledged our error in summoning the Clerk of Council and the Secretary without your leave. We have appointed Mr. Philip Clarke to draw up oaths for the principal officers and grand jury, against next Assembly. As to the overplus of tobacco, we desire to admit of no novelty. Answer ends. Message from the Governor. (1) I cannot consent that your journal should record that I consented to the adjournment of the House to the Speaker's chamber at any ordinary. I was only told of it after the adjournment had been made. (2) I have appointed a Committee to examine the papers respecting the protested bill, to report thereon against next Session. (3) As to the overplus tobacco, if I understand your meaning aright, I will consent to pass the allowances granted by you, on certain conditions. (4) Upon your whole answer I notice that it is not nemine contradicente that some of you have given up a part of your infallibility. I expect that you will assert the same to the King and Council of Trade, when I doubt not to make you appear a little fallible. A letter from you, supposed to be for the Bishop of London, has been received and read. I scorn to have my reputation and honour supported by some of you; I rather look upon it as a scandal, for I can prove one of you to be a villain on record, and the lives of many of you are known not to be agreeable to truth and justice. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 15. pp. 252–294.]
March 28.	330. Minutes of Council of Maryland in Assembly. Heads of the Militia Bill drawn up and sent to the Delegates. Report of the Committee on the Church and free schools read; resolved to agree with the Delegates except on one point. Resolved that the export duty on European goods sent to Pennsylvania is no obstruction to the export of the said goods from England. Order for vacation of a Navigation bond. Bill for holding a Court in Cecil County and a supplementary bill to the Act for Ordinaries read a first time. Two petitions considered. Remarks on certain resolutions of the Delegates. (1) We agree as to the payment of the Secretary and Chancellor in future, but their present claims must be discharged. (2) The votes as to the Militia Bill and as to sloops and shallops require explanation. Copies of the accounts of the revenue sent down to the Delegates. Message from the Delegates refusing to send the Journal of the Committee of Grievances. Answer from the Council insisting on their right to see it. Dowdee's Naturalisation bill read a first time and amended. Messages and proposals to the Delegates (see preceding abstract, 29 March).
March 29.	Message to the Delegates, bringing to their notice a case of enticing people from the province. Joint Committee requested for viewing the records. Bill as to disputes between masters and servants read a first time. Message from the delegates as to disbanded soldiers, appointment of an agent, treatment of white servants and other matters (see preceding abstract under date). Message to the Delegates about Gerard Slye's articles (see ibid. 30 March). The Delegates' answer as to the Indians. Messages to the Delegates, explaining the former message as to enticing inhabitants from the province, and as to Indian affairs. The Attorneys' Bill referred for a conference.
March 30.	Report of the conferrers on the Attorneys' Bill read and approved, and the bill read a second time. Proclamations for thanksgiving and against Romish priests read and approved. Bill to revive expiring Acts read a first time. Remarks of the Council thereon. Answers of the Delegates as to Gerard Slye's articles and other matters; with the further messages of the Council and replies of the Delegates thereto (see preceding abstract).
March 31.	A complaint from Pennsylvania about the duty of 10 per cent. levied on women-servants and guns transported thither, referred to the Delegates, also the complaint of Prince George's County about the menace of the Piscattaway Indians. Answer of the Delegates as to Slye's articles and Susquehannah Indians. Message to the Delegates, asking for the return of the papers relating to Slye, and commanding any members who pretend to justify his charges to do so in writing. Sir Thomas Laurence represented that Mr. Povey and Mr. Blathwayt had not been rewarded. Indian matters again considered, and a message of remonstrance thereon addressed to the Delegates, who replied that they wished not to be detained by that business. Answers of the Delegates as to Mr. Povey and Mr. Blathwayt. Remarks of the Council on the bill for reviving expiring laws. Message to the Delegates respecting their address about the King's lawyers (see preceding abstract, 2 April).
April 1.	The Journal of the Committee of Accounts considered. Remarked that some Delegates have larger travelling allowances than the Councillors, that Mr. Sewell's allowance is refused, that some of the Delegates' boys are admitted as Clerks, and that allowance is made to two persons for their protested bills. Messages from the Delegates desiring the disposal of some money in bank, that they do not contemplate reviving any expiring laws for more than three years, and that they think it presumptuous to address the King as to the rumour of Lord Baltimore's restoration. Message to the Delegates, refusing the disposal of the money requested, in consequence of the Delegates' recalcitrance. Further messages to the Delegates as to adding Councillors to the Committee for apportioning the levy, and forwarding the Royal instructions as to expiring laws. Message from the Delegates asking for the Session to be ended. Further message from the Delegates, refusing to give way about expiring laws, granting the travelling expenses of Councillors, urging that Mr. Sewell's sermon was unsatisfactory and defending the employment of a Delegate's servant as clerk as being an encouragement to learning. Answer of the Council to these arguments. (See preceding abstract, 2 April.) Order for certain rangers to be disbanded and for others to be raised.
April 2.	Answer of the Delegates to the Council's criticisms, with the Council's rejoinder thereto, and the Governor's final message. (See preceding abstract.) [Board of Trade. Maryland, 14. pp. 294–339.]
March 29.	331. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. A dedimus, empowering the Council to administer to the Governor the oaths appointed by the Act for regulating the Plantation Trade, was read, and the form of the oath set out. The Governor explained that the dedimus had been addressed to the late Receiver-General and had come to his hands on the 23rd inst. Some debate arose whether, owing to the time being elapsed, the Council could tender the oath, but it was finally resolved to tender it. The Governor thereupon handed in a paper, pointing out that the oath prescribed in the dedimus was not wholly consonant with that prescribed in the Act for regulating the Plantation Trade, since that Act mentions certain specified Acts which the Governor shall swear to execute, whereas the dedimus says "All other Acts that relate to the trade of the Plantations." To such an uncertainty no man could honestly swear, and he therefore proposed to take the oath if he were allowed to add that he would do his best to execute the Acts specified in the Act for regulating the Plantation trade, and any other Acts that might come to his knowledge. The Council declined to allow him to make any such an addition. The Governor thereupon issued a declaration repeating his readiness to take the oath to do his best to execute the Acts, but that he could not swear to execute that which he did not know nor statutes which though existing seemed to be obsolete, and that he must throw himself on the King's mercy if he incurred the penalty of £1,000 appointed by the Act. Thomas Finch was rejected as unfit to execute the Receiver-General's office and Charles Chaplin was appointed in his stead. Orders for several payments. The Governor again offered to take the oath, with an addition to save his conscience, but the Council refused to allow the oath to be added to or altered. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 79. pp. 82–89.]
March 29.	332. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Nevis. The ten members of the Assembly were returned and sworn. James Bevan was chosen Speaker. Four patents for land passed.
March 30.	Three patents for lands passed. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 64. pp. 465–466.]
March 30. Cookpit.	333. Council of Trade and Plantations to the King. In obedience to your order in Council of 17th inst., we have examined the condition of Newfoundland, and find that at St. John's two forts of nine and five guns have been erected on either side of the harbour s mouth, and a fort of sixteen guns within the bay. At his departure Colonel Gibsone left them twelve officers and 289 men, including sick men, of his own regiment, and twenty-nine officers and men of the train of artillery. After consultation with Colonel Gibsone and Captain Norris we recommend that these fortifications be made more perfect, and that two other small batteries be erected within the harbour, not far from the outermost batteries. For defence of these forts and batteries the least number of men judged necessary is forty-three privates, besides non-commissioned officers, under a lieutenant and an ensign, one master gunner, six gunners and a store-keeper. Provisions being dear and the climate bad in Newfoundland, the pay and subsistence of the soldiers there should be as follows, viz., the value of 6d. per diem the first cost in provisions, 2d. per diem for clothing, and 2d. for expenses, with a proportionable allowance to the officers; and the Ordnance Office should take similar care for the maintenance of the gunners and others belonging to the train. All the other officers and soldiers, as also the other attendants of the train, should return to England by the first convoy, receiving an allowance of provisions during their passage, unless your Majesty send money to discharge such men as may be willing to stay on the place or dispose of themselves elsewhere in the Plantations. Provisions for one whole year should be sent out by the Victuallers of the Navy by the usual convoys, also money to pay them until the coming away of the convoys, with an abatement of so much per diem as the provisions furnished to them shall have amounted to, not exceeding 4d. per diem for each man's allowance, until they come upon the new establishment, also a competent sum towards the subsistence of the officers and soldiers until the return of the convoys next year. To complete the old and erect the new fortifications workmen should be sent from England with bricks sufficient to face the works, and as much lime and planks (to be taken in as ballast by the merchant ships) as the Ordnance Office, after consulting with the engineers, think necessary. A chain of 95 fathoms, with a boom, should also be sent from hence, to be so fitted that it may be drawn across the harbour in the place where the batteries now stand; also an iron bridle and a capstan for heaving the boom across. The engineer now there should inspect this, for the better effecting of this work, during the present summer; the seamen of the convoys and the soldiers should also assist therein, receiving some extraordinary allowance in brandy during their work. When this work is completed the soldiers may be allowed to work at convenient times in the fishery or otherwise, for their greater encouragement; but the officers shall have no power over the planters or fishermen except to summon them together for common defence in case of actual invasion. The foregoing we think necessary for the preservation of this important trade and country, the returns whereof have generally amounted to the value of £300,000 annually to this kingdom. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, Jno. Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 25. pp. 184–188.]
March 30.	334. Minutes of Council of Maryland. A collector's petition for a warrant of assistance for pressing men and horses was referred to the law-officers for report; the same collector's report for erection of houses to hold landed goods was ordered to be referred to the Commissioners of Customs.
March 31.	A letter from the Commissioners of Customs respecting certain Scotch traders was read, and communicated to the Collectors and Naval Officers.
April 1.	Samuel Holdsworth produced a deputation as prize-agent for all prizes in Maryland, superseding that of Peter Jenings, and asked that Jenings should make over all accounts of that office to him; which question was referred to the law-officers. Order for the Court of Appeal to sit on 14th inst. Letter for discharge of the rangers in Baltimore County signed. Order for Colonel Addison to enlist ten men to strengthen the rangers on the frontierplantations; the old rangers to continue till the new be equipped.
April 2.	Two justices of the Provincial Court obtained leave to go home. Resolved that masters of ships may be allowed to register their ships, on making oath who are the owners. Agreed to represent to the King that the rumours of Lord Baltimore's restoration cause much unrest, and that his restoration would do much mischief not only to the Protestant Church, but to the good frame and constitution of the Courts of Justice. Ninian Beale and Richard Owen, offering themselves as officers of rangers, were referred to Colonel Addison. Robert Mason put out from being sheriff of St. Maries County and a new sheriff appointed. Agreed to recommend John Hammond, Richard Hill, Thomas Tasker, and Francis Jenkins, as candidates for Council. Order as to duplicates of records to be kept by Naval Officers. Order for the law-officers to report as to the powers of surveyors under Edward Randolph's commissions. The Council asked the Governor to form the Military Commissions and instructions when the arms come in. William Bladen was sworn Surveyor and Deputy Collector for Annapolis. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 13. pp. 437–446.]
March 31. Whitehall.	335. Council of Trade and Plantations to the King. Having received advice from Governor Codrington that the number of Councillors in Antigua is at present under twelve, we recommend the appointment of Mr. John Corbet, who is now upon his departure thither, to be a member of the Council. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 45. p. 176.]
March 31. Kensington.	336. Order of the King in Council. Appointing John Corbet to be of the Council of Antigua. Copy. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 28 April, Read 6 May, 1698. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 5. No. 78; and 45. p. 181.]
March 31. Kensington.	337. Order of the King in Council. Approving the representation of the Council of Trade of 30th inst. (No. 333), and ordering (1) that the Treasury prepare an establishment of officers and men for the garrison to be left in Newfoundland, and for issuing such sums as are needed for the provisions and other charges specified in the representation. (2) That the Master General of the Ordnance give the necessary orders for the preservation of the old fortifieations and erection of the new in Newfoundland, for maintenance of the store-keeper and gunners of the train that are left there, for bringing home the rest of the attendants of the train, as also for sending the necessary workmen and materials and for such other matters as lie within the duty of the Office of Ordnance. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 6, Read 9 April, 1698. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 3. No. 98; and 25. pp. 191–192.]
March 31. Kensington.	338. Order of the King in Council. Approving the proposals of the Council of Trade in their representation of 30 March (No. 333) as to the pay and subsistence of the garrison to be left in Newfoundland, the bringing home of the rest of the men, the sending out of provisions for one year by the convoys, and the extraordinary allowance for soldiers and seamen working on the fortifications; and directing the Admiralty to give the necessary orders as to victualling. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 6, Read 9 April, 1698. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 3. No. 99; and 25. pp. 193–194.]
March 31. Cockpit.	339. Council of Trade and Plantations to the King. Since presenting our representation on the defence of Newfoundland we have intelligence from the Western ports that several foreign ships are going from Spain and Portugal to the fishery, for the better carrying on of which they have seduced and hired many English subjects. The undertakers hope thereby to instruct themselves in the trade to the lessening of ours, by vending the manufactures of Europe to the English there and supplying themselves with fish, which hitherto they have always received from us. To prevent this we beg that you will order the Admiralty to direct the Captains of the men-of-war going as convoys to Newfoundland to take all English subjects out of foreign ships that are found on the coast to the North-Eastward of Cape Race, and to hinder all foreign ships from trading and fishing between Cape Race and Cape Bonavista, within which limits the English have their usual settlements and fishery. Signed, J. Bridgewater, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, Jno. Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 25. pp. 120–101.]
March 31. Kensington.	340. Order of the King in Council. Approving the representation of the Council of Trade of same date (see preceding abstract), and ordering the Admiralty to give instructions to the commanders of the convoys to Newfoundland accordingly. Copy. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 6, Read 9 April, 1698. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 3. No. 100; and 25. pp. 194–195.]
March 31. Leghorn.	341. Copy of a letter from Leghorn to Samuel Lockley, merchant. Mr. John Barrow, who acts here as Consul, has given a patent to a Jew here for a French-built ship to go under English colours to Newfoundland and back hither. This ought not to be suffered, for it will spoil all our trade there and ruin our merchants if Jews and foreigners are allowed to trade direct to these parts. We have therefore advised you, that you may take measures to stop these designs and hinder these projects, for the preservation of our fish trade. Signed, Arundel, Shepheard and Mitchell, Partners. 1 p. Endorsed, Communicated by Mr. Lockley. Recd. 18, Read 20 April, 1698. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 3. No. 101; and 25. pp. 202–203.]
March 31. East India House.	342. The East India Company to Council of Trade and Plantations. In reply to your questions how the squadron designed for the suppression of pirates shall be provisioned, which service the King expects to be under our care, we answer as follows. We have no settlement at Madagascar, but are well informed that if the squadron takes in salt here, or at the Isle of May on its way thither, it may have other provisions at Madagascar at very reasonable rates—an ox for a dollar or two, and goats, rice and caravances proportionably cheap, to be purchased with pieces-of-eight. If the squadron proceed to the coast of India and touch at Bombay, Surat or any other of our factories we will take care that the Commodore shall have such credit as may be necessary for further supplying his ships, the Commodore giving bills on the Victuallers for the Navy for repayment. We believe, however, that if the squadron returns by way of Madagascar (which it would be very necessary for it to do) it would have little occasion for any supply except for some fresh provisions to the commanders. Signed, Ro. Blackborne, Secretary. Copy. 1¼ pp. Endorsed, Recd. Read 31 March, 1698. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 4. No. 103; and 34. pp. 263–264.]
March 31. Cookpit.	343. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Vernon. In fulfilment of the King's commands in yours of 28th inst. (No. 327) we have been attended by the East India Company, and have endeavoured to satisfy them of the fitness and necessity of their taking under their care the supplying of the squadron (designed chiefly for the protection of the East India trade) with the provisions which it will require in the East Indies. We enclose their reply (see preceding abstract). Signed, J. Bridgewater, Will. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 34. p. 265.]
March 31. Kensington.	344. Order of the King in Council. That proper seals be prepared for Virginia, Bermuda and New Hampshire, and that the Council of Trade give directions accordingly. Signed, John Povey. ¼ p. Endorsed, Recd. 5 April, 1698. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 4. No. 104; and 34. p. 266.]