America and West Indies: April 1706, 1-15

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 23, 1706-1708. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1916.

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'America and West Indies: April 1706, 1-15', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 23, 1706-1708, (London, 1916) pp. 95-108. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol23/pp95-108 [accessed 26 April 2024]

April 1706, 1-15

April 1. 219. Certificate similar to that of Capt. Fairborn, No. 217. Signed, T. Bridge. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 2, 1706. ¾ p. [C.O. 194, 3. No. 158.]
[April 1.] 220. London Merchants trading to Virginia and Maryland. Answer to Col. Quary, Feb. 22. Those Plantations produce one crop of tobacco yearly, but it is not ready at one time, so that it must be a great loss for a whole fleet to stay till all is ready, and if the whole fleet arrive from England at once, by the struggling of every one, it must be an encouragement to the planter, being in such a hurry, to produce worse tobacco. Good ships, well fitted with men and guns, should be allowed to come and go as they please; and regular convoys should go twice a year, etc. 24 signatures. Endorsed, Presented by Mr. Milner, March 29, Read April 1, 1706. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 18.]
April 1.
Jamaica.
221. Governor Handasyd to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I have received none from your Lops. since yours of Oct. 29, but by this packett am favoured with a letter from Sir C. Hedges of Jan. 17, etc. and a small trunk of King Charles' Declarations, etc., which are to be distributed among the Spaniards in these parts, and which I hope will have true effect. Nothing shall be wanting on my part to accomplish this matter; in order to which on March 27, I called a Councill, that the most speedy and effectuall measures might be considered and resolved on for the carrying on and perfecting this weighty affair. My first proposall was that a Gentleman of the Councill, who understands Spanish very well and has considerable dealings with some Spanish merchants, should be the person by whom this matter was to be wrought, but finding him not willing, have pitch't upon a Spanish Captain, Don Augustine Olaravall, who was taken in a Spanish advice-boat, and has since been imployed by severall merchants here, and sent to the Spanish coast on Business of Trade, in which he has discharged himselfe faithfully; whom I sent for, and after some discourse with him to discover which way his inclinations were, finding he was willing to undertake this matter, I made severall proposalls to him, and withall assured him of H.M. gracious protection and reward, if he managed this affair to effect, and that H.M. would recommend him, according to his meritt, to his lawfull King, Charles III, and for a further encouragement to him I offered to deposite in the hands of Mr. Chaplin 500 pistoles to be paid to him on his return from Carthagene, if he acted with ffidelity; in answer to which he told me that he desired nothing more then what would bear his expences during his stay there, and that 25 or 30 pistoles were sufficient. This matter was approved of by the Councill, and further means agreed on by them and me are, that a sloop be immediately hired, on board which this Spanish Captain, with all the Spanish prisoners here, are to be sent to Carthagene, and that Admiral Whetstone with his squadron should lie off to windward of Carthagene, and send in there the sloop wearing a fflagg of Truce, with the Spanish Captain and prisoners, and at that time deliver to some Spaniards the publick letters directed to the Governor with King Charles's Declaration, disperseing severall Declarations and letters, by which means the People's inclinations may be known; the Spanish Captain is likewise to take a private letter, which he is to convey to the Governor by his Father Confessor, who is very well inclined to King Charles's interest, and is intimate with the Governor: the fflagg of Truce is to continue there 4 or 5 days, that if the Governor is well disposed, he may have the opportunity of returning an answer. The Admirall is desired by me that while he lies off that place he write a letter to the Governor and acquaint him that the Queen of Great Brittain sent him there not to molest or do any injury to those who were her ancient allies, but to protect all those who are willing to throw off the French yoke, and declare for their right and lawfull King, Charles III, of whose clemency and protection they might be assured. H.M. has been graciously pleased to signify by Sir C. Hedges that my Regiment shall be relieved at the expiration of 6 years from our landing here, which determines June 8, 1707. In answer to which I have desired of Sir C. Hedges to return H.M. our most humble and hearty thanks and recommend to H.M. my earnest desire to be relieved at the same time from my Government, which I must entreat your Lordships' favour in forwarding: it being my misfortune after all the faithfull endeavours I have used to reclaim a headstrong ungovernable people to have no effect on them, nor have it in my power to make them sensible of our gracious Queen's care for them, and the yearly expence she is at in preserving their lives and ffortunes. Altho my ffortune, considering my numerous family, is very small, yet I am willing to content myself in depending on your Lorps. patronage so to recommend me to H.M. that a faithfull servant may never want bread, I having served her present Majesty and his late Majesty as King and Prince of Orange these 32 years past, therefore assure myself I shall not be forgott. Whoever is appointed to succeed me in the Government ought to be a man of unquestionable loyalty to H.M., as well as of courage and conduct, for if it should fall into other hands I am apprehensive of a very evill consequence. I have been obliged to continue an imbargo here these 5 weeks past, upon apprehensions of the enemy's attempting us, but they not being supply'd with fforces from old France, as they expected, believed themselves not strong enough for us, and so fell on St. Christopher's where they have burnt and destroyed all the Plantations. I put everything here in the best posture of defence I could, considering the small number of men I have to defend so large a place, for I believe the French certainly had a designe on this Island. They have had great mortality by a spotted feavour, as well on board their Fleet as at Martineco, of which severall hundreds have died. Refers to enclosed lists, by which your Lops. may be informed of our weakness. Encloses Minutes of Council, with an account of the Stores of ordnance, and a copy of a bond of Robert Daniell of Carolina, for the return of some stores of war he borrowed for the use of that place, which I before sent your Lordships but miscarried in the packett boat that was lost; I send the same by this packett to the Board of Ordnance. I have received by this packett boat a Lieutenant, an Ensign, a Serjeant, two Corporals, a Drummer and 38 private men of my regiment, and part of the cloathing. Four men, I am informed, dyed on their passage. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. Endorsed, Recd. 21st, Read May 27th, 1706. 3½ pp. Enclosed,
221. i. Copy of the bond of Robert Daniell, Dec. 4, 1702. Described in preceding. Endorsed, Recd. May 21, 1706. 1 p.
221. ii. Present strength of the 8 Regiments of Militia of Jamaica, containing white men, free Indians, free mulattoes and free negroes. Total, 2,550 men, 91 officers. Endorsed, Recd. 21st, Read 27th May, 1706. 1 p.
221. iii. Copies of the letters sent, in Spanish, by Governor Handasyd to the Governors of Cartagena, Porto Bello, Havana etc. March 30, 1706. Encloses papers to demonstrate the great affection the subjects of King Charles III have shewn to him in Spain. The French King designs with subtlety to send ships into the Indies by 2 or 3 at a time till he hath made up sufficient strength to sieze Cartagena or the Havana, therefore your Honour cannot be safe without denying them admittance etc. I am expecting here more ships of war for the succour of any of the Spanish West Indies that are for King Charles III, as also stores of war for their defence when desired. I send what Spanish prisoners are in this Island, and shall be obliged if you send me those you have and advise me if you have occasion of any ammunition etc. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. 1¼ pp.
221. iv. Copy of private letter from Governor Handasyd to the Governor of Cartagena. I have received dispatches from the Queen my Lady by wch. I can assure any of the Governors of the Spanish Ports, that I have a vallue for, that they will be continued in the same posts they now are, or put into others of greater consequence, if they declare for King Charles III, shakeing off that avaricious and devouring French Batt [? vampire] etc. etc. March 31, 1706. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. Endorsed, Recd. May 21, 1706. 1 p.
221. v. Account of Ordnance Stores sent over to Jamaica, 1704. 1 p.
221. vi. Account of Ordnance stores in Jamaica, November, 1705. Endorsed, Recd. May 21, 1706. 3½ large pp. [C.O. 137, 7. Nos. 23, 23.i.-vi.; and (without enclosures) 138, 11. pp. 463–473; and (extract of covering letter) 137, 51. No. 11.]
April 1.
Jamaica.
222. Governor Handasyd to Mr. Secretary Hedges. Acknowledges letters etc. of Jan. 17. Repeats parts of preceding letter, and refers to enclosures. Add: I have a list of 2 or 3,000 slaves, wch. may doe a great deal of service, if they are trusty, especially in a pursuit, but that I dare not depend on, etc. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. Endorsed, R. May 21. 2½ pp. Enclosed,
222. i.-iii. Duplicates of Nos. 221.ii.-iv. [C.O. 137, 45. Nos. 76, 76.i.-iii.]
April 2. 223. Mr. Jackson to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Prays that the Commodore may be directed to oblige the inhabitants of St. Johns to pay the arrears of fish, due to him upon the subscription they voluntarily undertook to pay him, to his correspondents there, Mr. Joseph Pemberton, and Archibald Comings. Signed, John Jackson. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 3, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 3. No. 159; and 195, 4. pp. 276–278.]
April 2.
Whitehall.
224. Mr. Popple to Capt. Gardiner. Encloses extract, for his answer, from Governor Handasyd's letter [? Nov. 20, 1705], complaining of the hardships his regiment suffers at Jamaica. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 442, 443.]
April 2.
Plymouth.
225. Col. Quary to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Elaborates memorial of Feb. 22. Never was so great a quantity of tobacco come from the Plantations in one year, as is expected in England this summer, nor was there ever so dismall a prospect of a market. The Dutch and their neighbours in Germany are said to have planted the last year 33,500 hhds; if true, this threatens ruin to Virginia and Maryland. Proposes that one or two gentlemen of known integrity and experience be sent to the Continent to investigate etc. etc. Signed, Robt. Quary. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 11, 1706. 3 pp. Enclosed,
225. i. An account of the tobacco planted in Gelderland and the places adjacent, as above. ½ p. [C.O. 5, 1315. Nos. 22, 22.i.; and (without enclosure) 5, 1362. pp. 23–28; and (enclosure only) 318, 3. No. 33.]
April 2.
Plymouth.
226. Col. Quary to Sydney, Lord Godolphin, Lord High Treasurer. Encloses following. Signed, Robt. Quary. 1 p. Enclosed,
226. i. Duplicate of preceding Memorial. [C.O. 5, 3. Nos. 29, 29.i.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
227. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Board of Ordnance. Enclose copy of Minutes of Council of Jamaica July–Oct., 1705, relating to stores of war. We desire you to take notice of the intention there was of putting on board H.M.S. Montague several old iron guns to be delivered to you. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 443, 444.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
228. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Hedges. We have examined the Petition of Lt. Moody, which you were pleased to deliver to us at our last attendance, setting forth his services to the Crown for 9 years past, and do find the matter of the said Petition, as to his defending the Fort at St. Johns against the French, to be true, and that he was superseded in his command of Lieut. of the Company by a Commission carried over by Major Loyd in favour of an other person. We have likewise examined several affidavits and papers of complaint against Moody, and find the chief charge is, that he caused a woman to be whipped within the Fort at St. Johns, and otherwise ill used by his soldiers, that she died in 14 days; to which accusation he has replied that this fact was tried at a Court Martial, whereupon he was acquitted etc. [see March 14, 28, 30]. As to the charge against him of having imbezled H.M. provisions and misbehaved himself on other occasions, we are of opinion that these informations are malitious, and we are confirmed in the said opinion by a letter he produced to us from Capt. Fairborn. [C.O. 195, 4. pp. 274–276.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
229. Sir C. Hedges to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following, for their opinion what method is proper to be taken for the relief of H.M. subjects in Carolina, and the protecting them in their just rights. Signed, C. Hedges. Endorsed, Recd. 9th, Read April 10th, 1706. 1 p. Enclosed,
229. i. Address of the House of Lords to the Queen, March 13, 1705, relating to Carolina, with H.M. Reply. Printed. 1 p. See Lords' Journal, XVIII. pp. 150–153. Overleaf,
229. ii. Petition of Joseph Boone, merchant, on behalf of himself and other inhabitants of Carolina and London merchants, to the House of Lords. Printed. 1 p. Set out, House of Lords MSS. New Series, VI. pp. 406–408. [C.O. 5, 1263. Nos. 101, 101.i., ii.; and 5, 1291. pp. 357, 358.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
230. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Park. Enclose Order of Council July 9, 1705, upon the petition of S. Baron. [C.O. 153, 9. pp. 307, 308.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
231. Sir C. Hedges to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following, that you may state the Fact and give your opinion what you think fit to be done. Signed, C. Hedges. Endorsed, Recd. 9th, Read April 10th, 1706. ¾ p. Enclosed,
231. i. Address of the House of Lords to the Queen. March 18, 1705–(6). Upon the petition of John Graves [see House of Lords MSS. New Series, VI. pp. 410, 411]. We humbly beseech your Majesty that, as well in compassion to your Majesty's distressed subjects in those parts, as for the security of the Trade in generall, you will be pleased to take the Bahama Islands into your hands in order to secure the same to the Crown of England and to the safety and advantage of the trade of your subjects etc. Signed, Math. Johnson, Cler. Parliamentor. [see Lords' Journal, XVIII. p. 159]. Copy. 1¼ pp. [C.O. 5, 1263. Nos. 100, 100.i.; and 5, 1291. pp. 354–356.]
April 3.
Whitehall.
232. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Attorney General. The Council of Trade and Plantations having received the enclosed paper from Mr. John Bridger relating to the exportation of wooll-cards to New England, and believing the same to be destructive and prejudicial to the woollen manufacture of this Kingdom, desire to know whether there be any Law whereby such exportation may be prevented. [C.O. 5, 912. pp. 128, 129.]
April 4.
Whitehall.
233. W. Popple to Constantine Phipps. Encloses Memorial from Thomas Newton relating to the want of a Court of Chancery in the Massachusetts Bay (March 29). The Council of Trade and Plantations desire you would procure them Mr. Attorney General's opinion thereupon. [C.O. 5, 912. pp. 129, 130.]
April 4. 234. Anonymous letter to Sir Philip Meadows. Those who propose one fleet and a good convoy for Virginia and Maryland once a year [Feb. 22], are beyond all controversy in the right. By this method the planter might, instead of 10s., yea, sometimes loss of the whole, make six times the value; by the former he is ruined, and cannot cloathe himself and servants, etc. etc. Endorsed, Recd. April 4, 1706. Addressed. 2½ pp. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 20.]
April 4.
Kensington.
235. Order of Queen in Council. Repealing Act of Barbados for confirming titles, etc. (see March 19). Signed, Chris. Musgrave. Endorsed, April 26, 1706. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 28, 9. No. 38; and 29, 10. pp. 48–50.]
April 4.
Whitehall.
236. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Champante. Encloses extract of letter from Lord Cornbury relating to Mr. Nanfan (? Nov. 20, 1705). [C.O. 5, 1120. p. 440.]
April 4.
Whitehall.
237. W. Popple, jr., to N. Gould, etc. [see March 5]. The Council of Trade and Plantations, having received information from several Virginia merchants that all our tobacco in Muscovy is now sold, desire to know whether you have any account thereof. [C.O. 5, 1362. p. 21.]
April 4. 238. Order of Queen in Council. Approving Representation No. 197. Mr. Jones is to return to England etc. Signed, Chris. Musgrave. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 7, 1706. 1½ pp. [C.O. 37, 7. No. 24; and 38, 6. pp. 171, 172.]
April 5. 239. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Commodore of the Newfoundland Convoy. Enclose Mr. Jackson's petition (April 2), and the original subscription of the inhabitants of St. Johns. We desire you to befriend him that he may receive his arrears. Annexed,
239. i. Subscription of some inhabitants of St. Johns, undertaking to pay Mr. John Jackson certain quantities of fish, annually so long as he stays. April 16, 1702. Signed, Jno. Collin, Wm. Legarsick (mark), Wm. Roberts, Ricd. Colesworthy, Jno. Marshal, Henry Newman, Robt. Delbridge, Tho. Hawkins, jr., Gilbert Jane (mark), John Cock, Tho. Grichie, Chr. Archer, Wm. Sharpe (mark), James Benger. [C.O. 195, 4. pp. 278, 279.]
April 5.
Whitehall.
240. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Sloper. My Lord Cornbury having acquainted the Council of Trade and Plantations (see Nov. 27, 1705), that H.M. has appointed him, as Governor of the Jerseys, a salary of 500l. per annum, desire you will inform me when and how the said salary was setled. [C.O. 5, 994.A. p. 279.]
April 6.
London.
241. Contractors with the Czar to Mr. Popple. We have no such advice as No. 237, nor do we believe that anybody else hath; but we are well assured by our youngest letters that nothing therein could be done till the Czar's return from the army, etc. Signed, Nathl. Gould, Saml. Heathcote, Wm. Dawsonne, Edwd. Haistwell. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 8, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 21; and 5, 1362. p. 22.]
April 6.
Liverpool.
242. W. Clayton to Wm. Popple. Encloses following. Signed, Wm. Clayton. Addressed. Sealed. ½ p. Enclosed,
242. i. Merchants of Liverpool to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reply to Col. Quary's Memorial Feb. 22. His proposal will wholly destroy the trade of the purchasers of the tobacco crop, and be chiefly advantagious to traders per commission, rich planters and shippers. A great part of the tobacco in Virginia and Maryland is not strip't and pack't till May and June. Ships arriving all together will bring such a glut of goods yt. the planters will not buy them except at their own terms, and hold their tobaccos at such high prices as will greatly discourage traders to those parts. The shippers and rich planters, having stocks, will ingross ye trade and oppress the poorer planters, during the absence of the Fleet at their pleasure, wch. seems to us one thing intended, because they'l get their tobacco in readiness against the Fleet arrive, but the purchasers must stay 3 or 4 months before they can get ready. The ships coming in one fleet will be of no advantage to the markets. Great quantities of goods ever lowers their prices. The same wind cannot carry all the ships at once to the place of rendezvous: some of the fleet may therefore be a month or 2 later than others, and the time fixt being so short, must be left behind and then obliged to stay till the following year. Propose that all ships have liberty to sail as they get ready, and that a certain time, as now practic'd, be appointed for the convoy to depart from Virginia, and that such ships as are not ready then, have liberty to sail in Aug. or Sept., when there will not be so much danger of privateers on the coasts of England and Ireland. 22 signatures. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 11, 1706. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1315. Nos. 23, 23.i.]
April 6.
Bristoll.
243. Col. Yate to W. Popple, jr. The merchants of this city, trading to Virginia and Maryland, are of opinion that, during the present war, Oct. 1st may be a very proper time for the convoys to sail from England and May 1st for their return with all ships that are bound for Europe. Signed, Robert Yate. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 11, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 24; and 5, 1362. p. 31.]
April 6.
Montseratt.
244. Lt. Governor Hodges to the Council of Trade and Plantations. The 21st of the last month, early in the morning, was discover'd to the windward of this Island 50 odd sayle, all with French Collours, 12 whereof, by report of a French prisoner, were men of war, they all bent their course for Antigua, and by 12 the same day was gott close under the shore of that Island, where they continued for about 2 houres, and then bore downe to the Northward of this Island, but before night was past, soe farr to Leeward as to give us reason to conjecture their intentions were for Nevis. By advice from St. Christophers, we understand that the day following the Enemy's men of warr came to anchor close under the fortifications of Nevis and imediately began their attacque, which continued for neare foure hours, as 'tis beleived, for soe longe was discover'd nothing but fire and smoke, which being over, was discern'd two French fflaggs flying in two several fforts. The enemy hath bin now 14 days on that Island, and from the many fires for these severall dayes and nights have been seen thereon, it may be presumed they have compleated the distruction thereof. It's thought St. Xt.phers may be the next place they will attempt, and then this Island in turnn. I hope your Lordships will beleive I have been wanting in nothing that may contribute to the safety of this Island. It's possable the enemy may flatter themselves that this will be but an easie conquest, derived from some confidence that the Irish here are in their intrest, but I promise myselfe herein they will be deceived, having made it good part of my care, soe to temper the minds of those people as to remaine under a great deal of assurance of their being firme to the Queen's intrest. The foregoing relation, my Lords, is too melancholly to dwell on, however, I thought in duty I could doe no less, etc. Signed, Antho. Hodges. Endorsed, Recd. 20th, Read June 21st, 1706. 1½ pp. [C.O. 152, 6. No. 53; and 153, 9. pp. 377–379.]
April 7.
Barbados.
245. Governor Sir B. Granville to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following, brought to me by an express from Antego 2 days since. By it yor. Lordships will see the danger of the Leeward Islands, and the nearness of it to us, at least all people here are apprehensive that this Island will at last be attack'd, and from the present strength of the French, as well as what we have reason to believe they expect further, we are as vigorously as we can preparing to receive them. We endeavour to supply our weakness in men with intrenchments and redoubts, which tho in some forwardness, are far from being finished, what we have shall be made use of to the best advantage of H.M. service, etc. According to the best intelligence I have the French force is, 15 sail of men of war, most 70 and 60 guns; 3,600 land soldiers of their regular troops from Europe; number of criolls with their sloops and brigantines uncertain; more men of war and land forces expected daily from Europe. Signed, Bevill Granville. Endorsed, Recd. June 24, Read July 1, 1706. 2 pp. Enclosed,
245. i. J. Yeamans to Governor Sir B. Granville. Antigua, March 25, 1706. Gives news of the descent of the French fleet upon Nevis [see June 3]. We expect to be the next attack'd, and that very soon. 'Tis much to be doubted succors from England will come too late, and except this Island be reinforced by throwing in what men your Excellency can speedily part with to our assistance, we may fall a sacrifice with the rest; which may prove of that evil consequence as to encourage France to attempt Barbadoes itself, etc. Signed, Jno. Yeamans. P.S.— The Commander in Chief lately went hence with the Queen's troops in hopes to throw both them and himself into Nevis, to the assistance of our friends there, but we have reason to judge that Island's so begirt with the enemy that it's altogether impracticable. I pray the sloop may be dispatch'd with an account of what wee may depend on. If the fleet should arrive from England sooner than expected, or whensoever they do, I pray yor. interest in hast'ning them to us. Copy. 2½ pp. [C.O. 152, 39. Nos. 109, 109.i.; and 28, 9. Nos. 46, 46.i.; and 29, 10. pp. 71–75; and (enclosure 1 only) 7, 1. No. 9.]
April 7.
Barbados.
246. Same to Mr. Sec. Hedges. Repeats part of preceding. This Island is in no condition to spare any men to help others, and it will be found difficult enough for it to defend itself, etc. But how great soever our disadvantages may be, my confidence is no less in the blessing wch. has ever so signally attended H.M. arms, etc. Signed, Bevill Granville. Endorsed, R. June 23. 2 pp. [C.O. 28, 38. No. 47.]
April 8.
Barbados.
247. Same to Governor Handasyd. Forwards letter from Antego, and news of 12 sail sighted on the 6th off Barbadoes. If this is the reinforcement from France expected at Martinique, the French have a force in these parts which may be formidable to all the English Southern Colonies. I am perswaded they will make an attempt on this Island; it is not unlikely but that they may have an eye afterwards towards you, etc. Repeats part of preceding. I desire you to acquaint Sir Wm. Whetstone, etc. Signed, Bevill Granville. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 38. Nos. 48, and (duplicate) 48.i.]
April 8.
Whitehall.
248. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Having received letters from New York and New Jersey relating to Col. Ingoldesby's two Commissions as Lieut. Governor of New York and New Jersey [see Nov. 10, 1705], we do find that the execution of the said two Commissions does cause disorders and differences in those Governments with regard to the Governor in Cheif and otherwise. Upon the surrender of the Government of New Jersey to your Majesty, the Governor in Cheif of New York, was, by a distinct Commission, constituted Governor of New Jersey, and whereas the Governor of New York does most reside at New York and, upon the occasions of his being absent from thence to visit the Jerseys, there is a President and Councill in New York for the dispatch of business there, we are humbly of opinion that your Majesty's service no ways requiring that there be a Lieut. Governor of New York, [and] that therefore the Commission to Col. Ingoldesby as such be revok'd. And whereas we do find that notwithstanding his being Lieut. Governor of New Jersey, where it will be his duty to reside, he is not as yet appointed of the Councill there, we are humbly of opinion that your Majesty be pleased to appoint him of ye said Councill. [C.O. 5, 1120. pp. 447–449.]
April 9.
Whitehall.
249. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Board of Ordnance. Enclose account of the Ordnance and stores in the Leeward Islands (see Sept. 17, 1705). [C.O. 153, 9. p. 325.]
April 9.
D.D. Commons.
250. Sir John Cooke to Mr. Popple. Reply to March 19. I conceive that the Laws of War and of Nations do prohibite such trade, and such prohibition seems to be contained or implyed in H.M. Declaration of War, May 4, 1702; "We strictly forbid all our subjects to hold any correspondance or communication with France or Spain," etc. Nevertheless ye Queen may by contrary Declaration and Instructions allow such Trade, so as the same shal not be interrupted by any English ships of war or privateers, as H.M. was pleased to do in respect to Spain, by her Instructions Jan. 29, 1704/5, wch. I think was in time precedent to ye passing of ye Bill to ye same effect. However, I conceive that unlesse ye States General can be brought to consent to such trade, the goods so sent will be liable to their seizure and confiscation according to ye Laws of Nations: as the effects of their subjects were here, notwithstanding ye permission they had from ye States General, till H.M. was pleased to allow thereof. Signed, J. Cooke. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 18, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 25; and 5, 1362. pp. 31, 32.]
April 10. 251. Capt. Gardner to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following. The power of doing Governor Handasyd and his Regiment the service he might reasonably expect from his Agent, was intirely taken away from me by his establishment, by wch. the Government has the sole directions and remition of pay there, etc. Signed, Ro. Gardner. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 24, 1706. Addressed. 1 p. Enclosed,
251. i. Paymaster General to the Lord High Treasurer. The uncertainty of the arrival of Bills drawn here, and the great time taken in Jamaica for payment of them has occasioned great disappointments and delays in subsisting the forces there. Proposes that, instead of advancing the subsistance for 6 months upon Bills drawn here, the same may be issued monthly and paid over by the Agent of the Regiment to some person who shall lodge a credit in Jamaica, which Mr. Kent, on behalf of Col. Knights and Sir Gilbert Heathcote both offer to perform at a profit of 18l. p.c. to the Regiment in the exchange. Signed, J. Howe. March 16, 1705/6. Copy. 1½ pp. [C.O. 137, 7. Nos. 22, 22.i.; and 138, 11. pp. 455–460.]
April 11.
Kensington.
252. Instructions to Major Lloyd, Commander of the Garrison at St. Johns. You are to let the Commodore of the Convoy for the time being at all seasonable times to inspect and take an acct. of the stores, ammunition and provisions there, as also to deliver unto him a muster-roll and muster the garrison before him, etc. No person is to be listed into our pay by you in Newfoundland, except in cases of the greatest necessity, whereof you are to give an acct. to our Capt. General. Neither you nor any other officer is to carry on any trade in Newfoundland etc. Signed, A.R. [C.O. 324, 30. pp. 72, 73.]
April 11.
Kensington.
253. The Queen to the Commander in Chief of the Convoy at Newfoundland. Whereas by the want of good discipline among our subjects in Newfoundland the French were encouraged the last winter to make an incursion into severall harbours thereof, where they committed great spoil, etc., and Wee being willing to provide for the better defence of such of our subjects as remain there during the winter, Wee do hereby give you and such as shall be appointed by you full power and authority to constitute a Militia in the severall Harbours Coves and Creeks of that Country wch. shall be inhabited, and to appoint such and so many of the inhabitants as shall be judged by you to command the said Militia, etc. The Commander of the Garrison is to be aiding and assisting them, and the Militia him. Countersigned, C. Hedges. [C.O. 324, 30. pp. 74, 75.]
April 11.
Kensington.
254. Instructions to the Commander in Chief of the Convoy at Newfoundland. You are to publish the preceding Declaration for raising a Militia in the first harbour where you shall arrive, and cause it to be done in the others. You are to inspect the stores and garrison of the Forts and report thereupon, and also as to whether any of the officers trade etc. And whereas We judge it conducing to ye safety of our subjects remaining in Newfoundland that they do inhabit as near as may be together during the winter and the present warr, you are to admonish them, and endeavour to perswade them in the severall harbours, creeks and coves distant from St. John's Harbour, to transport themselves and their families with the most valuable and portable goods to St. Johns, where besides their own united strength they will have the protection of our Fort and Garrison, etc. Signed, A. R. [C.O. 324, 30. pp. 75–78.]
April 11.
Whitehall.
255. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Perry. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire to know whether any tobaccos are exported from England to Portugal and Spain. [C.O. 5, 1362. p. 32.]
April 11.
Kensington.
256. Order of Queen in Council. Revoking Col. Ingoldesby's Commission as Lt. Governor of New York, and appointing him of the Council of New Jersey (see April 8. Set out, N.Y. Docs. IV. pp. 1174, 1175). Signed, Chris. Musgrave. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 24, 1706. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1049. No. 13; and 5, 1120. pp. 452–454; and 5, 980. No. 36.]
April 11.
Whitehall.
257. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Recommend 2 Acts of New York (see following) for H.M. approbation. [C.O. 5, 1120. pp. 449, 450.]
April 11.
Kensington.
258. Order of Queen in Council. Ratifying Acts of New York, for explaining an Act for settling the Ministry, etc. and enabling William Bradford to sell the estate of John Dewsbury decd. etc. Signed, Chris. Musgrave. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 7, 1706. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 5, 1049. No. 15; and 5, 1120. pp. 464, 465.]
April 11.
Whitehall.
259. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Hedges. We are preparing a report upon Mr. Quary's proposals (Feb. 22 etc.). H.M. Envoy in Holland may make the enquiries he suggests concerning tobacco there. And whereas he proposes that liberty be obtained for H.M. subjects to send tobacco to Narva etc. without being molested by the King of Sweeden's men-of-war, we are humbly of opinion that Instructions be sent to H.M. envoy at the Court of Sweden for obtaining that leave, if possible, since otherwise those parts, which have been usually supplied with tobacco from England, will find out another market for the furnishing themselves with that commodity. Autograph signatures. 2 pp. Annexed,
259. i. Extract of letter from Col. Quary, April 2, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 3. Nos. 30, 30.i.; and (without enclosure) 5, 1362. pp. 28, 29.]
April 11.
Whitehall.
260. W. Popple, jr., to Col. Quary. Asks for further details upon his proposals for the tobacco-trade (April 2). Encloses Memorials from Liverpool and Whitehaven (April 11, Mar. 8) for his observations "as soon as may be, the Western merchants being intirely of a contrary opinion to yours." [C.O. 5, 1362. pp. 30, 31.]
April 11.
London.
261. Mr. Perry to W. Popple. Gives details as to Continental tobacco trade. Signed, Micajah Perry. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 18, 1706. Addressed. ¾ p. [C.O. 5, 1315. No. 26; and 5, 1362. pp. 34, 35.]
April 12.
Whitehall.
262. Mr. Popple to Thomas Allen. Encloses the Attorney General's opinion, March 23. [C.O. 5, 912. pp. 132, 133.]
[April 12.] 263. Capt. Daniel Johnson, the younger, to [?]. Prays an order to be directed to the Governor of Bermuda to deliver the goods (enumerated) of himself and his father, on account of the Royal African Company, detained on pretence of his running away with the Christopher, lately belonging to that Company, and a like order to Edward Chester, or other Agent of the Company at Antego. Endorsed, Ap. 12, 1706. [C.O. 37, 28. No. 1.]
April 12.
Whitehall.
264. Mr. Popple to Attorney and Solicitor General. Encloses letter and Address upon the Bahama Islands, April 3. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire your opinion what may be fittest to be done in Law for H.M. taking the said Islands into her own hands, in order to secure the same to the Crown, and for recovering the trade of H.M. subjects in those parts. [C.O. 5, 1291. p. 359.]
April 12.
Whitehall.
265. Mr. Popple to Attorney and Solicitor General. Encloses letter and Address, April 3, for their opinion as to what method in Law is proper to be taken for the relief of H.M. subjects in Carolina and the protecting them in their just rights. [C.O. 5, 1291. p. 360.]
April 12.
London.
266. Mr. Dummer to Mr. Popple. Gives sailings of the West India packet. Out and home 107 days. Describes the loss of the Barbados packet upon the corrall shoals of Hineago Isle, Dec. 28, and subsequent plundering by a privateer. These are losses oweing entirely to the carelessness, want of conduct, or courage in the seamen, for ye vessels are of all others without exception, and will doe what a man pleases. However, I am not discouraged, and these accidents show at the same time the means that will prevent them etc. Signed, E. Dummer. Endorsed, Recd. Read April 15, 1706. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 323, 6. No. 4.]
April 12.
Whitehall.
267. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Parke. Having had under consideration an Act past at St. Christophers 1704, entituled an Act for subjecting that part of the Island which was formerly called the French ground to the Civil Government, we send you the same here inclosed, together with Col. Johnson's reasons for not affixing the seal thereunto, which we neither approve of, nor of his not affixing the seal to the Act after he had past it in order to the registring and publishing of it; we desire you therefore upon your arrival to give directions that the seal be affixed to the said Act, and that it be registred and published there that it may immediately be in force and then transmitted to us with your opinion thereupon for H.M. allowance or disapprobation thereof. And whereas we are informed the inhabitants in the Leeward Islands are under a mistake in conceiving that no laws made there take place or are in force untill they are confirmed by H.M., we desire you would make them sensible of their errour, and let them know that all laws after they have been past by the Governour in Chief, sealed, registred, and published, are in force and ought to be put in execution till H.M. signify her disapprobation thereof. [C.O. 153, 9. 326, 327.]
April 15.
Whitehall.
268. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Sec. Hedges. Enclose extracts of letters concerning a considerable French force in the West Indies. Autograph signatures. Endorsed, Read Apr. 16, 1706. 1 p. [C.O. 318, 3. No. 29; and 138, 11. pp. 453, 454.]
April 15.
Whitehall.
269. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. Encloses, for his opinion, Act of Jamaica, Oct. 30, 1705, to provide an additional subsistance for H.M. officers and souldiers etc. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 454, 455.]