|
|
|
July 5.
|
1518. Certificate by John Fenn that there is no money remaining
in the hands of Sir George Carteret upon account of a Privy Seal to
Sir Tobias Bridge for the charges of a regiment of foot raised for
Barbadoes wherewith to answer an order of Council of 13 March last
for payment of 66l. 19s. to Lord Willoughby of Parham, see ante,
No. 1438. [Dom., Chas. II., Vol. CCVIII., No. 93, Cal., p. 269.]
|
|
July 7.
|
1519. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Hopes of a peace with Holland.
It is reported that the States have sent to their fleet to cause them
to desist from further attempts on the coast ; also that the Dutch
have taken Surinam from us. [Dom., Chas. II., Vol. CCVIII., No.
130, Cal., p. 274.]
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July 9.
Barbadoes.
|
1520. Gov. Wm. Lord Willoughby to [Joseph] Williamson, Sec. to
Lord Arlington. Refers him to letters to Lord Arlington. Thinks
he has conquered this island with good words, but that will not do
with Monsieur. God send us peace or two good regiments at least.
Never man was so out in his judgment as Sir John Colleton,
who named Sir John Yeamans to exceed all men for interest in this
island. Building on his information Gov. Willoughby named him
for a judge, when the Assembly brought in matters of so high a
nature against him that he durst not stand the test, though the
Governor offered to stand by him. This place is pleasant, the company
good, the power great, and hopes in time to give a good
account of it. They had an ill brush at St. Kitts, Col, Stapleton,
Lt.-Col. Cutter, and Capt. Talbot, hurt and taken ; brave Rellamont
killed, and Williamson's friend Scott escaped, who will give a true
account of the business. In requital Sir John Harman has burnt
19 or 20 great French ships in Martinico road. Indorsed, Rec.
Sept. 9. 1 p. [Col. Papers Vol. XXI., No. 71.]
|
July 10.
Nevis.
|
1521. Gov. James Russell to Wm. Lord Willoughby at Barbadoes.
Is confident that the Lieut.-Gen. has not omitted to give account
of what has passed. Sir John Harman has returned from Martinico,
where he destroyed the French fleet of 23 sail. Had it not
been for his Excellency's great care in sending men, arms, and
ammunition they had undoubtedly been a prey to the enemy ; but
now being masters of the seas they hope in good time to be masters
of the land, so it was this day resolved that Sir John Harman should
sail and "larum" St. Christopher's, beat their forts and towns about
their ears, and use all means to take some prisoners for better intelligence.
Are much weakened with loss and sickness occasioned
through want of provisions, having had great droughts, no supplies
these many months from Europe or New England, and a multitude
of women and children from other islands. Ha ve enough of
sugars, and desires that what provision can be spared from his
Lordship's Island, may be ordered down hither, where a good price
and quick despatch may be had. Incloses,
|
|
1521. I. Resolutions taken at a Council of War held at the house
of Lieut.-Col. Rand. Russell. Present, Lieut.-General Henry
Willoughby, Sir Tobias Bridge, Sir John Harman, and Col.
James Russell, Governor. That a messenger be sent to
the Governor of St. Christopher's with supplies for our
officers prisoners there, who is to make the best inquiry
he can concerning the condition and strength of the island.
In case the intelligence is not satisfactory Sir John Harman
shall use all means for gaining off prisoners from St.
Christopher's, either English or French. If an attack be
feasible, forthwith to put it in execution. That the four
merchant ships under Capts. Collier, Randall, Caine, and
Morgan be discharged from his Majesty service, which
will furnish Sir John Harman with 20 able seamen each.
Not to take off any person without a ticket from the
Governor. Together 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
Nos. 72, 72 I.]
|
July 10.
Barbadoes.
|
1522. John Reid to (Sec. Lord Arlington). Recommends the
bearer Capt. Edward Burd, who was Commander of the Margaret
which was lost in that unfortunate Leeward expedition under Lord
Francis Willoughby. After the loss of his ship he was indeed the
remarkable person that behaved himself valiantly at Todosantes,
where he fought till wounded dangerously in the head, and lost the
use of his left arm, which is in danger to be cut off. He lost a
great part of his estate in the hurricane. In the worst of times,
whilst his Lordship was in Spain, Reid employed him, and ever
found him loyal and a stout Commander. Beseeches him to favour
his just pretensions that he may see his Lordship has somewhat
more than an ordinary kindness for the writer. 1 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXI., No. 73.]
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|
1667?
|
1523. Petition of Capt. Edward Burd, late Commander of the Margaret
of Leith, to the King and Council. Said vessel was freighted
at Barbadoes with tobacco, sugar, &c., to the value of 5,000l. ; but
pressed by the late Lord Willoughby for his Majesty's service in the
expedition to the Leeward Isles at 180l. per mensem, provision being
made as is usual in case she should be lost. The present Lord
Willoughby, Council, and Assembly of Barbadoes have certified
that petitioner behaved valiantly in taking two men-of-war and a
merchant at Todos Los Santos, which he kept possession of nine
days, till having lost 60 men and received a shot in the head and
another in the arm, of which he has lost for ever the use, he was
overpowered and detained prisoner 10 months till he paid 110l.
ransom. Both petitioner's ship and prizes to the value of 1,436l.
were destroyed by that memorable hurricane and he has lost 350l.
for ransom and extraordinary expenses. Prays for a warrant for the
prize ship Convertive lying in Scotland in a ruinous condition.
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 74.]
|
|
July 12.
|
1524. "Major Scott's relation." Shall begin with our landing
at Barbadoes 23rd April last, where they found the Triennial
Government no way answering the end designed, for Messrs. Barwick
and Hawley would not comply with anything proposed by
Lieut.-General Willoughby for his Majesty's service without some
show of severity. On his Excellency's arrival, the Assembly was
dissolved and new writs issued for calling the choice together, when
all old matters ill done against his interest was passed and the
interest of his Majesty managed with great satisfaction. The 23rd
May Lieut.-Gen. Willoughby on the earnest motion of the Nevis
people, and for resettling Antigua, Montserrat, Saba, and Anguilla,
and asserting his Majesty's interest on St. Christopher's, departed
with the Jersey and East India merchant and a victualler ; arrived
at Nevis on 26th where they found the successful fleet under Capt.
Berry, who a few days before fought the French and Dutch, at least
three times their number in ships and men, and after a sharp dispute
chased them into their sanctuary and remained masters of the
seas. Their army consisting of 3,200 men was mustered 2nd June,
and on 6th they were preparing for landing at St. Christopher's, the
forlorn of 700 men placed in boats, the reserve in yachts, and the
main body in ships, the distance between the Road at Nevis where
they lay and St. Christopher's being five leagues ; all committed to
Capt. Carteret, Admiral, but no signal could be given for fear of
alarming the enemy, and owing to the want of particular orders and
the darkness, the ships sailed different courses, which maritime error
put a period to that service. On the 7th a plan was digested which
is described for weighing at four in the morning of the 8th ; but
weighing later than was designed, gave the French too much notice
where they designed to land. "And now began the tragedy ;" the
forlorn landed under Capt. Cotter, an Irish gentleman, and the
reserve under Col. Stapleton, Major Scott, and many others ; there
grew a dispute between the English and the Irish officers, and the Irish
refused to follow the guide appointed by the Lt.-Genl., and attempted
a gully, where after some slight wounds, they were taken, he will not
say surrendered to the French, but their soldiers of the same nation
by a general shout surrendered themselves to the enemy, whilst most
of the English officers and soldiers found graves, and those few that
survived galled the enemy till the French, though there were not
above 100 English, and they their whole army of horse and foot,
after many sallies upon them, made them a tender of their lives,
which many would not accept but committed themselves to the sea,
and seven were saved by the bravery of the boats, the Lieut.-General
himself venturing very frankly to save his men. After anchoring
at Basseterre the Lieut. sent on the 9th to the French to desire
burial for the slain, careful usage for the wounded and prisoners,
and exchange of prisoners, and to say that he would exact satisfaction
for the breach of Articles and inhumanities at Antigua
and Montserrat before he left the Leeward Isles. To which the
French General St. Lawrence answered that all humanity might be
expected to dead, wounded, and prisoners ; that gentlemen of France
needed no spur ; that a trench had been made for the dead ; that
prisoners should be exchanged ; and that as to breach of Articles
M. Cletheroe, Governor of Martinico, commanded at Antigua and
Montserrat, and that the gentlemen of St. Christopher's abhorred all
breach of faith, and they desired only such treatment for French or
Dutch as they afforded to the King of Great Britain's subjects ;
and that as to the Lieut.-General's resolution to have satisfaction,
the gentlemen of France are ever prepared to receive an enemy, and
that the island would receive a greater strength than the King of
England can send, unless he employ his whole fleet from Europe to
take St. Christopher's. Sir John Harman arrived 13th, with the
Lion, Crown, Newcastle, Dover, Bonaventure, Assistance, Assurance,
two fire-ships, and two ketches, but before his arrival the Lt.-Genl.
had dispatched men and ammunition to Antigua and Montserrat
and other islands that have suffered by the French, and where he
had ordered forts to keep possession for his Majesty, for the reasons
given. In this vacancy Sir John Harman destroyed the whole
French fleet of 24 good ships at anchor at Martinico, and is returned
to Nevis, having visited the new settled island on his way. This
12th July Major Scott was despatched by the Lieut.-Gen. "to capitulate
the capricious humours of the French," negotiate the exchange
of prisoners, and make the best judgment he could of their strength,
which he finds to be, one veteran regiment from Picardy, about
700 horse, a forlorn of dragoons, about 2,500 planters, though the
French say 4,000. Yet the Lieut.-Genl., unless Sir Tobias Bridge,
and the gravity of some others accustomed to a more methodical
way of fighting, more for profit than danger, doth divert, will in few
days make another attempt on St. Christopher's, where if they once
get footing, they need not doubt being masters of that island. Indorsed
by Williamson, Major Scott's relation till 12th July 1667.
6 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 75.]
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|
1667?
|
1525. Petition of Major John Scott to the King. Was employed
Commander-in-chief of a small fleet and of a regiment of foot in
1665 and 1666 in an expedition against the Dutch on Tobago, and
at New Zealand, Desse Cuba, and Timberan on the main of Guiana ;
in which, by the assistance of the Caribbee nation, petitioner burnt
and destroyed the enemy's towns, forts, goods, and settlements to the
value of 160,000l., and disbursed for his Majesty's service 73,788 lbs.
of Muscavado sugar. Prays for satisfaction out of the moiety of
4 per cent. at Barbadoes. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 76.]
|
|
1526. Petition of Col. John Scott to the King. Petitioner disbursed
in the late war with the Dutch and French 1,620l., 738l. of
which his Majesty ordered Will. Lord Willoughby in Feb. 1667-8
to charge on the 4 per cent. in Barbadoes, but petitioner has received
no return but that there is more charged upon it than it can satisfy.
Petitioner also lost a ketch value 500l. in Francis Lord Willoughby's
unfortunate voyage, and was forced to pay for provisions for his
soldiers on the coast of Guiana. Prays his Majesty to order the
whole, or such part thereof as he shall think fit, to be paid. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 77.]
|
|
1667?
|
1527. Petition of Thos. Ross to the King. That by Letters
Patent of 9th April, 16 Chas. II. [mistake for 15 Chas. II., see ante,
No. 435], his Majesty granted petitioner and Thomas Chiffinch,
and the survivor, the office of Receiver-General of all revenues and
profits, &c. payable to his Majesty from his Plantations in Africa and
America, with a fee of 400l. a year, in pursuance of which the Earl
of Southampton, then Lord Treasurer, wrote to Fras. Lord Willoughby,
then Governor at Barbadoes, directing him to pay said fee ;
nevertheless petitioner has not hitherto received any part thereof.
Understanding that by several contracts and agreements a revenue
is settled to his Majesty from Barbadoes and the Caribbees, the first
payment to be at Midsummer next coming, prays he may receive
said revenue and be allowed his salary. Annexed,
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|
1527. I. Extract of patent to Thos. Ross and Thos. Chiffinch
above referred to ; also Article 6 of Lord Willoughby's
instructions in reference to the appointment of collectors,
receivers, treasurers, and such other officers.
|
|
1527. II. Lord Treasurer Southampton to [Gov. Lord Willoughby].
As he was well acquainted with the patent to Ross and
Chiffinch and agreed the usefulness of their employment,
now takes notice that Gov. Willoughby has in some good
measure settled a revenue for his Majesty in Barbadoes,
and recommends said Ross and Chiffinch to the execution
of their employment, and to admit them or their deputies
to keep accounts to correspond with the Governor's.
Southampton House, 1664, June 14. Together 3 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., Nos. 78-80.]
|
1667.
July 13.
|
1528. Geoffrey Shakerley to Williamson. A vessel from Barbadoes
brings news of 200 sail there bound homewards which will not
come out till towards winter, and of the retaking of Montserrat by
the English, the French and Irish upon the island sent prisoners to
Nevis. [Dom., Chas. II., Vol. CCIX., No. 73, Cal., p. 289.]
|
July 13.
(Nevis.)
|
1529. Sir Tobias Bridge to Wm. Lord Willoughby at Barbadoes.
Arrived on 9th inst. with their two companies in good health, and
delivered his Lordship's letters to the Lt.-Gen. and Sir John Harman,
who arrived the evening before. Next morning it was
resolved to send Major Scott to the Governor of St. Christopher's,
with a letter from the Lt.-Gen. and 20l. for the relief of the English
officers there, who was, if possible, to get a true understanding
of the strength and condition of the French. He returned with
little satisfaction, and complains of Capt. Cotter's great familiarity
with the French Governor, and says that most of our soldiers
prisoners, especially Irish, have taken up arms for the French.
Next morning came a messenger from the Governor of St. Christopher's
with a letter to the Lt.-Gen., and letters from the English
officers. Capt. Cotter and others complain much of Major Scott's
imprudent carriage in the message, and ill deportment in the
engagement. Sir John Harman intends this night to sail on the
coast of St. Christopher's and alarm their forts, to land small parties
in the night, and do what prejudice he can by taking prisoners,
burning houses, and the like, and with his boats to make an attempt
upon the shallops in the harbour, which otherwise will be apt to do
small vessels trading to this island some prejudice. Expects if they
get prisoners to be truly informed of the strength and condition of
the place, and if not feasible to attempt further, will take further
resolutions. The forces of these places will hardly answer expectation ;
provisions waste apace, have no bread, much of the beef is
useless, and no vessels have come from New England. Capt. Mallett
with 150 men has returned from St. Martin's with 25 head of cattle.
The Lieut.-Gen. is very industriously careful in all that his Lordship
has intrusted him with. The merchant ships here in the King's
service have been discharged, as they would consume the remainder
of the stores. Indorsed, Received 26th. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol.
XXI., No. 81.]
|
July 14.
Nevis.
|
1530. Henry Willoughby to his father Lord Willoughby,
Governor of Barbadoes. Wrote by Capt. Godolphin at large. Since
the return of Sir John Harman and the arrival of the rest of Sir
Tobias Bridge's regiment, they have called a Council of War, the
result of which he encloses [see enclosure, No. 1521. I.] So sent a boat
to Basseterre with a flag of truce, but cannot gain much intelligence.
Sir John Harman is intended to St. Christopher's with ships and
guides, to get off some prisoners for better intelligence, with whom
he intends to embark himself ; then if it can be rationally concluded
to make a new attempt on that island, they will effect it.
Has discharged the four merchant ships mentioned, and also Capt.
Morris. Indorsed, "Received 26th July." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol.
XXI., No. 82.]
|
July 16.
Nevis.
|
1531. Major John Scott to Joseph Williamson. Arrival of two ships
from St. Martin's, an island taken from the Spaniard by the French
and Dutch in 1645 ; 500 of our solders and seamen burnt all their
houses, sacked the island, and took a few prisoners, but most of the
people took sanctuary in the mountains. Has omitted a particular
account of the killed and wounded at St. Christopher's ; they lost,
killed 506, wounded 284, most of them mortally, and prisoners 140,
of which he redeemed 40 by exchange, who give a very strange
account of Lieut.-Col. Stapleton and Capt. Cottar and 70 Irish ; of
the French were slain 130 and wounded 340. Our army still
consists of about 3,000 men. The French at St. Christopher's, in
horse and foot, are 2,000 in pay besides planters ; at Guadaloupe,
400 in pay and 2,500, planters ; at Martinico, a life guard of Mons.
De la Barre, French Governor of the Caribbees, 600 buccaneers, and
6,000 planters. The King of France has given strict charge to
secure Martinico of all his islands, for the harbour's sake. Was
wounded in the arm, breast, and shoulder, and in four boats that
adventured to take him up were 20 men killed and wounded, but
is well recovered. This night had the forerunner of a hurricane.
He will hear the account of the Irish here sent by one Smith, a
minister : knows he abuses them strangely in general, though many
of that nation here have carried it very handsomely. 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 83.]
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|
July 17.
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1532. H. Norwood to Williamson. A troublesome distemper
has hitherto prevented him from presenting the inclosed papers ; to
enlighten obscurities therein Mr. Ludwell is well able if admitted to
an audience. Incloses,
|
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1532. I. Brief of what I (Norwood) could gather as grievances in
Virginia. The extreme and grievous taxes : two millions
of tobacco raised for building forts at the heads of the
rivers upon great many new plantations : injuries done
in the Courts through the Governor's passion, age, or weakness :
the great sway of the Council over the Assembly :
the Governor licensing some to trad e with the Indians :
and not timely suppressing their incursions.
|
|
1532. II. Heads of the Company's Charter granted by King
James. Together 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., Nos.
84, 84 I., II.]
|
July 19.
Fort James,
New York.
|
1533. Circular letter from [Col. Nicolls] to the Justices of the
Peace, Constables, and Overseers of Southampton, Easthampton,
Southold, Seatalcot, Huntington, Oyster Bay, and Hempsteed. The
noise of war sounds from far in other Plantations, and it becomes
necessary in his Majesty's name to require them to put their militia
into the following ways of defence : 1st. That one third of the companies
now afoot fit themselves with horses, saddles, and arms, so as
to be ready at an hour's warning. 2nd. That the rest remain about
their Plantations as much as may be. 3rd. If any town be more in
danger than another the neighbouring towns shall send relief. 4th.
The horsemen of each town shall choose a corporal to conduct them
to the rendezvous, where the whole body shall elect their Captain,
Lieutenant, and Cornet. Lastly. The justices, constables, overseers,
and military officers are required to promote his Majesty's service
strenuously and diligently for the preservation of the peace. Draft
in Nicolls' handwriting. Printed in New York Documents, III.,
157, 158. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 85.]
|
|
July?
|
1534. William Harris to Col. Nicolls. Is more oppressed than
when Nicolls required the Government of Rhode Island to order speedy
execution on the writer's behalf against John Harrad [? Harwood] ;
which the sergeant neglected, to gain his own ends with the men of
Warwick, their adversaries. The Assembly has declared the sergeant
not guilty, and that the Act commanding said execution was a surreptitious
Act. Cannot get justice from the men of Warwick, Thos.
Pelfe, Wm. Burton, and Roger Burlingham. Account of illegal proceedings
in the choice of town officers for Providence, encouraged by
Arthur Fener against Wm. Carpenter. Fener summoned but found
not guilty, while Harris was condemned and fined 50l. Protests
against said fine for the reasons stated, and begs Nicolls to prohibit
the execution of it, and that before being condemned he may have a
fair trial by 12 lawful men. The Deputy Governor, John Easton
Wm. Carpenter, Benj. Smith, and John Clark judge he is wronged.
Begs he will appoint impartial men from the neighbouring colonies
to end differences between the men of Providence and Patuxet and
the men of Warwick and Patuxet. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
No. 86.]
|
July 24.
Fort James,
New York.
|
1535. Col. Nicolls to [Gov. Winthrop, &c.]. Has delayed answering
his letter of 6th May, hoping to have Sam. Mavericke's advice
in the matter. As to the removal of several inhabitants out of the
King's Province, and the address of Roger Plaistead, the first order of
the King's Commissioners at Warwick was made void by their second
order of 15 Sept., which was explained in their last of 20 Nov. 1666.
Will not excuse Sir R. Carr's hastiness in putting Plaistead into possession,
but failings are natural infirmities. Writes not as a Commissioner,
still he hopes what he writes will have some weight. About
the controversy of title to land between Wm. Harris and John
Harwood, which has so long depended with so much heat : the
execution granted having laid so long dormant in the sergeant's
hands savours of some partiality ; fears too many of the colony are
engaged on one side or the other. Harris' complaint against Fenner :
there is no precedent in any law book in England for fining a person
who sues for the King, though he does not make out the full matter
and evidence. Hopes they will seasonably reflect upon these things ;
his only design is to contribute his hearty neighbourly and friendly
advice to their peace and prosperity. Printed in New York Documents,
III., 158, 159. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 87.]
|
July 29.
Jamaica.
|
1536. Sir James Modyford to Williamson. Was detained at
Barbadoes upwards of 11 weeks, rather thinks through the ignorance
than the malice of Lord Willoughby ; neither will it be news that
Providence was retaken by the Spaniard long since, but we may
certainly have it again if his Majesty pleases. Arrived here
15th inst. Williamson's bill of exchange from the Royal Company
is accepted, and its returns will be sent to him in the best commodities
of the island by the next ship. Begs his hearty service to Mr.
Lee ; has seen and will have a care for his friend Geo. Reade. Indorsed,
Rec. 24 Oct., answd. 29 Oct. 1667. p. [Col. Papers, Vol.
XXI., No. 88.]
|
July 30.
Jamaica.
|
1537. Gov. Sir Thos. Modyford to Sec. Lord Arlington. Has
received by the hands of his dearest and most welcome brother his
Lordship's of Jan. 28 and Feb 4, and is very glad to find all his to
the 21st Aug. have come safe to hand. "Had my abilities suited so
well with my wishes, as the latter did with your Lordship's, the
privateers' attempts had only been practised on the Dutch and
French, and the Spaniards free of them, but I had no money to pay
them nor frigates to force them ; the former they could not get from
our declared enemies, nothing could they expect but blows from
them, and (as they have often repeated to me) will that pay for new
sails or rigging?" Had he the often desired frigates, would have
compelled them to struggle with their wants and necessities until
they had fully accomplished his Majesty's intentions ; and if this
last frigate had come so seasonably as she might, it had prevented
that misfortune which, he will find in the enclosed, fell upon us, and
which was a great loss to his Royal Highness and the Royal Company,
both having considerable estates on board Capt. Land. Or if
Lord Willoughby (who very unseasonably kept his brother three
months at Barbadoes) had despatched him in time with a ship of
ordinary countenance they might yet have easily retaken the Caper
and his prizes. Has lately sent two men-of-war to Cape Tiburon to
observe the French, and commanded all the rest to repair to this
harbour, and then will, suitable to his Lordship's directions, as far as
he is able, restrain them from further acts of violence towards the
Spaniards, unless provoked by new insolencies. Their gallions are
like to winter here. Is sending a sloop to the coast of Cartagena
to take and bring hither some prisoners. Annexed to his letter of
4 April 1667. Indorsed, Giving an account of the great loss of that
island by the Caper's taking five rich ships by a stratagem, wherein
his Royal Highness is much concerned. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
No. 31.]
|
July 30.
Jamaica.
|
1538. Sir James Modyford to Sec. Lord Arlington. It was
July 5th ere he could get from Barbadoes, so that his forced stay
there was upwards of 11 weeks. Arrived here 15th current and
found all things in an extraordinary good defensive posture ; but
had one of his Majesty's ships brought him down without any stop,
she might have saved 40,000l. loss to his Majesty's subjects, by
securing the five ships taken at the Caimanos, one whereof the Royal
Company was deeply concerned in and the Duke of York himself
3,000l. Sends narrative of what passed betwixt Lord Willoughby
and himself at Barbadoes [see No. 1543]. Providence being long
since retaken by the Spaniard, holds it his duty to attend here
his Majesty's further commands, hoping it may be the retaking of
his said island. Will not insist at this time on his expenses in
setting out as Governor of Providence, but only his expenses for
himself and men ; in their stay at Barbadoes and passage down has
been forced to make use of his credit and charge his bills for
348l. 11s. 6d., payable to Sir Geo. Smith, requests to have his favour
and assistance in it. Annexed to his letter of 19 June 1667. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 59.]
|
July?
[Barbadoes.]
|
1539. Governor Wm. Lord Willoughby to the King. Gave
account by express sent eight days since of their attempting St.
Christopher's, in which by error of the guide they received a repulse,
also of their burning and sinking 19 or 20 French ships of war and
merchantmen in Martinico road. This island is willing to do anything
to maintain his Majesty's interest, and indeed their charge in
preserving Nevis, which otherwise had undeniably been lost, has not
been less than 50,000l., and now they are going to fortify themselves
at no less expense ; their only want will be great guns, for
they have not above 50, whereas their works would require 300.
Begs leave to inform his Majesty out of faithfulness to the trust
reposed in him that there are two things which except speedily
remedied will ruin these Plantations : 1. The want of free trade
with Scotland, by which formerly these islands were supplied with
brave servants and faithful subjects. 2. Free trade to Guinea for
negroes, by which they may be as plentifully furnished as formerly,
so excessive scare and dear are they now that the poor planters
will be forced to go to foreign Plantations for a livelihood. Has at
large given reasons for what he asserts to his Majesty and Council.
"And now, Sir, had I 1,000 good men I would try a pluck with
brisk monsieur, which I have as good a mind to as to the beacon
course ; pardon and consider I beseech you, Sir, what I have said."
Indorsed, R. 9 Sept. 67. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 89.]
|
|
July-Nov.
|
1540. Narrative of the taking of the island of Cayenne from the
French, and the Fort and Colony of Surinam from the Dutch, by
Lt.-Gen. Henry Willoughby and Sir John Harman. About the 16th
or 18th July at a Council of War held in Nevis road, it was concluded
that the soldiers and seamen were nowise capable of reattacking
St. Christopher's, and to design for some other place.
Whereupon the Lieut.-Gen. models two foot regiments, the first as
his own commanded by Lt.-Col. Philip Warner of 500 men, and
the second commanded by Col. Samuel Barry of 350 men ; Sir John
Harman set sail on 27th with the Lion, Bonaventure, Jersey,
Assistance, Assurance, Norwich, Willoughby, Roe, and Portsmouth,
one galliot and a sloop, leaving for the guard of Nevis under Capt.
William Poole the Crown, Newcastle, Coronation, East India Merchant,
Dover, and a fire-ship ; the 29th they anchored at Montserrat ;
and at Barbadoes 8th August, and taking in guides set sail
on the 10th August.
Aug. 19.Minutes of a Council of War held on board H.M.S. Lion,
present : Lieut.-Gen. Henry Willoughby, Sir John Harman, Col.
Samuel Barry, Lieut.-Col. Philip Warner, Major James Walker,
Major Thomas Canes, Captains Wm. Birdall, James Carterett, William
Hamon, John Norborrow, William Smith, William Mussendine,
and Edward Ewre. It was concluded and agreed, 1st. That the
Island of Cayenne, now in possession of the French (no unforeseen
accident intervening), be first attacked. 2nd. That Major Richard
Stevens command the forlorn hope for that attack, to consist of 80
choice and well experienced soldiers, Capt. Morris Williams to be
second in command, assisted by Lieutenants Rowland Williams and
William Cowell and four sergeants. 3rd. That three companies of
seamen from the fleet, each company to consist of 60 choice and
well armed mariners, act as a reserve to the forlorn, commanded by
Captains John Norborrow, Wm. Hamon, and James Carterett. 4th.
That the commanders of this squadron deliver to the commanders of
the soldiers the necessary powder, ball, and match. 5th. That the
reserve of seamen constantly keep 100 yards distant from the rear of
the forlorn until they are needed. The residue of the infantry were
ordered in what form they should land. Papers and guides being
examined agreed that there were on Cayenne no less than 600 or
700 well equipped French foot, with a strong fort, and 40 pieces of
ordnance, which by the sequel proved true.
Orders for the embarking of the forlorn and its reserve at their
landing at Cayenne. Aug. 20. Orders from the Lieut.-General to
Major Richard Stevens, to Capt. John Norborrow, Capt. Wm. Hamon,
and Capt. Jas. Carterett ; also to Col. Philip Warner and to Col.
Samuel Barry and his regiment.
All things thus ordered there unexpectedly fell a dead calm, which
continued eight days, in which the soldiers suffered many exigencies,
their greatest misery being want of water, through default of which
many fell down sick and the rest were very much weakened. Two
days before landing a French vessel sent to Cayenne by M. De la
Barre to give his brother the Chevalier de Lezy notice that they
were bound for the Main, fell in among their fleet, but got away
before day, some 24 or 30 hours before they did.
Account of their landing, where a well compact body of the enemy,
between 350 and 400 foot, were drawn up by the water side to meet
them, who began, according to the custom of their nation, to charge
furiously, but the place not admitting of begirting the English, they
fought with little advantage, which the Chevalier de Lezy and Mons.
Cheney, his sergeant-major, perceiving, both cry out aloud to give
one volley and then fall in l'epe la main, which word of command
the English first obeyed, and so shot both him and his sergeant-major.
Then the enemy faintly began to retreat, betaking themselves
to a town hard at hand, called Armyra, consisting of 60 or 70 houses,
through which they passed, some half mile distant, and there rallied.
By this time the English party had increased by the continual
arriving of boats, and drew up in sight of the French, whose numbers
were also much enlarged. But here the English soldiery, oppressed
with violent thirst, began to straggle from their officers, and could
not be reclaimed, whereupon the commander of the forlorn ordered
them all to fall into the town and draw up by the church, but here
the malady increased, for just where they drew up was the magazine,
in which was great store of merchandise and strong drinks, from
which the soldiers could not be kept, so the commander of the forlorn
gave orders for the firing of the whole town, which was speedily
effected, the French still throwing shot at our people as they ran to
and again 'twixt the houses, which, being of very combustible matter,
flamed so violently that the whole party were fain to quit the town
and retreat toward the water side, leaving a wall of fire betwixt
them and the French. If ever officers in the Indies fought like
themselves, and their soldiers like men, considering the disadvantage
of place and numbers, it was here. There were slain of the enemy
23 men, the Governor the Chevalier de Lezy, and Mons. Chenay, with a
considerable number of other persons wounded. On the English side,
the commander of the forlorn shot in seven places, two of his men
wounded, and one killed. The French at the firing of Armyra
marched through the country to their fort on the other side. Then
came two Frenchmen from Cayenne fort to the Lieut.-General about
the surrender of the fort, whose discourse of the misery of their
condition did not at first gain belief, nor that so generally a reputed
soldier as Mons. Lezy should quit a place so well fortified and manned
as Cayenne. So the Lieut.-General ordered his men to advance, but
were met by escaped prisoners, formerly from Antigua, who assured
the Lieut.-General of the flight of Mons. Lezy and his sergeant-major,
taking with them money, plate, and goods.
Proclamation of Governor Wm. Lord Willoughby to the inhabitants
of Cayenne ; also account of the surrender of the fort, in which
were found 39 pieces of ordnance, 1,500 great shot, 27 barrels of
powder, 26 barrels of bullets, 400 shells, 6 barrels of brimstone,
80 back, breast, and head pieces, 200 bundles of match, and 400
small arms. It was then resolved to summon a Council of War,
which was held in Fort Charles on September 17th, when one of
the French Royal Company's factors and a Jew gave account that
there were in the island 295 negroes, 51 sugar coppers, stills, &c.,
10 mills, 49 cattle, and 10 horses. Whilst some were in pursuit
of the negroes and others carrying down the artillery for embarkation
and making provisions, there came over from the main an Indian
Prince famous in those parts, and known by the name of John
Vandergoose, who requested to be admitted into amity, proffering
to pick up any negroes left in the woods, and reserve them till
the Lieut.-Gen. should send for them, and requested the Government
of the island for his Majesty till some other should come to receive
it. The guns on board. Sir John Harman writes the Lieut.-General
Sept. 25, that he could not carry off all the French prisoners, so
it was resolved to carry off the Jews and as many of the French
as are fit for exchange, providing the remainder with tools, cottages,
&c., and demolishing the forts and strong buildings. A letter of
protection was given to John Vandergoose, who was empowered
to pursue the negroes, and the stock of Cayenne was fully
destroyed, and the best of the buildings left in the last of their
flames, and more plunder carried away than will ever be known.
On 29th September the fleet took leave of the island for Surinam,
where it anchored on 3rd October within sight of the fort. Then
follows account of the summons to surrender on the 4th, the landing
of the English on the 5th, and the battery and surrender on the
7th. In the fort were 24 ordnance and 225 men, whereof 54 were
slain and wounded ; Capts. William Hamon of the Bonaventure,
and Thomas Willoughby of the Portsmouth, and Major Walker's
ensign killed, and Capts. Norborrow and Mussendine with several
inferior officers and privates wounded.
Proceedings at a Court-Martial held 15th October 1667, upon Lieut.-Gen.
Wm. Byam, late English Gov. of Surinam at his own request,
in reference to his surrender of the fort to the Dutch on Feb. 17,
1666. The court declared that they found he had in all particulars
demeaned himself as became a loyal faithful subject, as a valorous
prudent commander, and an honourable person. On 16th October
it was ordered that the estates, which on the Dutch invasion were
confiscated to the States of Zealand, should be remitted wholly for the
satisfaction of the officers and soldiers, according to contract made
with them at their enlisting at Nevis ; and one of these estates
having formerly belonged to Francis Lord Willoughby, the officers
and soldiers presented it with all the slaves thereto belonging to Lt.-Gen.
Henry Willoughby for his share. The chief inhabitants being
summoned to declare if they had any grievances, presented a paper
Declaring that some negroes which they hoped to have purchased
were to be carried out of the colony, but acknowledged there
was a great necessity for it. Then the Lieut.-Gen. published a
Declaration that the Government of the colony should be as it was
before the capture by the Dutch, but immediately under the King,
that all former taxes and customs were abolished, and commissioned
Col. Barry Governor, leaving 100 armed men, and set sail for Barbadoes
on 3rd November. This country proved very unhealthy
to the whole party, many at this present pining away under the
infection they got there. 35 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
No. 90.
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1667?
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1541. Project of a Treaty of Peace and neutrality between the
English and French in the West Indies. If any rupture happen
in Europe between the two Crowns, no act of hostility is to be used
by either English or French in the West Indies. Differences in the
Caribbee islands to be determined by the Generals of the respective
Governments. Differences in Jamaica, St. Domingo, or Hispaniola
by the respective Governors ; but differences in any other places to
be remitted to the two Kings. This treaty shall in no wise derogate
from the treaty of Breda, nor from any treaties or articles of agreement
made at St. Christopher's or any other of said islands. 3 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 91.]
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