Volume 199: April 3-July 31, 1716

Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 5, 1714-1719. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1883.

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'Volume 199: April 3-July 31, 1716', in Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 5, 1714-1719, (London, 1883) pp. 202-223. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-papers/vol5/pp202-223 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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April 3–July 31, 1716

[After
3 April.]
1. Petition of Sir Hans Sloane to the King, praying to be discharged from payment of 1,095l. due to his Majesty in consequence of the baronetcy conferred on him.
Signed. Undated. 1 page.
4 April. 2. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. Transmits an account of the purchase of arms received from Mons. Klinggraff, who was employed to purchase 10,000 arms, which are sent to Ireland; for directions to be given thereon. Whitehall, 4 April 1716.
“The acct refer'd to the Board of Ordnance by łre dat. 9th April 1716.” 1 page.
5 April. 3. Captain Francis Wivell to Wm Lowndes, Esq. Asks that the “Fubbs” yacht, the command of which has been given to him, may be furnished like the other yachts, as her furniture was long since worn out, it having been made for her in King Charles' reign, and she having lately been re-built. The “Wm & Mary” yacht has a damask bed. Hopes the Lords of the Treasury will order him (Captain Wivell), who is the oldest captain in England, a damask bed for the “Fubbs,” being for the honour of the nation. Greenwich, 5 April 1716. 1 page.
5 April. 4. Representation of the inhabitants of Norwich to the Lords of the Treasury, against the arrest of judgment in the case of Nathaniel Beals, who was found guilty of exporting wool into France. Norwich, 5 April 1716.
Also an affidavit. 2 large pages.
9 April. 5. “Abstract of timber delivered for the service of ye navy by Edwd Wilcox during his being Surveyor of the Woods South of Trent.”
Signed:—“Edwd Wilcox, 9th April 1716.” 1 large page.
10 April. 6. John Anstis, Garter [King-at-arms] to [? Mr Lowndes]. Thinks the Treasury has been most shamefully imposed on in regard to his salary. Hopes he may not be driven to apply to the Exchequer for the revival of the Liberate writ. Supposes he heard the Attorney-General's declaration in the house about the legality of his (Anstis') patent, which he hopes will have credit at the Treasury. The only objection ever made is about the Earl Marshal's nomination, which Mr Attorney says is not required. However, he has it under the hands and seals of the Duke of Norfolk and of the Lord Suffolk, though he hears the latter thinks he has been so careless as to lose it. April 10, 1716.
Minuted:—“Read.” 2 pages.
11 April. 7. James Stanhope to Wm Lowndes, Esq. Asks that the Lords of the Treasury would give orders to make the Lord Chamberlain's warrant effectual, viz., for the payment of Captain Thomas Scot 612l. 1s. 9d. expended by him in fitting up his ship for the reception of the King of Sicily. Whitehall, 11 April 1716.
The Treasurer of the Chambers' memorial and the warrant referred to. 3 pages.
13 April. 8. “An acct of the incident charges of packing, shiping off, &ca, the ten thousand arms bought in Holland for the service of the Kingdom of Ireland, as transmitted from thence by Monsieur Klinggraff to the Lords Commissioners of his Majtys Treasury, and by their Lordships to the Board of Ordnance.” 13 April 1716.
Minuted:—“20th April 1716. Prepare a warrt for 2,601li 10s to the Lords Justices of Ireland, who are to repay the sd sum to the Trea[su]rer of the Ordnance.” 1 page.
14 April. 9. Report of Thomas Hewett to the Lords of the Treasury, as to his having treated with Mr Sayers for his interest of 18 years in certain spring woods and wood lands called Knowle Grove, Fan Grove, and Stubbridge Coppice, in the parishes of Chertsey, Thorp, and Egham, in the county of Surrey; the amount to be paid is 350l. He (Mr Hewett) can sell the woods for 400l. or upwards. 14 April 1716.
Minuted:—“Agreed.” 1 page.
24 April. 10. Report of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of the Lady Catherine Jones, one of the daughters of Richard, Earl of Ranelagh, deceased, praying his Majesty's warrant for the grant of a pension of 100l. per ann. on the Irish Establishment for 21 years, as an equivalent for the Crown rent she has to pay out of the estate left her by the late Earl. Agree that it will be a favour well bestowed. Dublin Castle, 24 Apr. 1716.
Minuted:—“12th June 1716. Prepare a warrt.” 1 page.
28 April. 11. Representation by the Comrs of Excise to the Lords of the Treasury, in answer to a letter from them relating to the disaffection to the government of Mr Ferryman, Collector in Wales, Middle Collection, and to their Lordships' recommendation of Mr Matthew Davis, for an appointment in the Excise. It appears from a letter from Sir Arthur Owen, Bart., that Mr Ferryman had intermeddled in an election contrary to law and to repeated orders, whereupon he was discharged. The Comrs say, in enumerating the duties of a collector of Excise, that he “is the superior officer in the collection he is intrusted with, and to him all the inferior officers in the collection ought to apply, for advice and assistance in all cases of difficulty or doubt that may arise or happen in his collection, with relation to the said duties; he ought therefore to be thoroughly acquainted with all the laws of Excise and the other Acts which any ways relate to the said dutys, to enable him to informe and instruct the inferiour officers in such cases, and be also capable of drawing informac[i]ons in legall forms upon the sd Acts against such persons as shall offend against the same. It being a duty incumbent upon him not only to prepare such informac[i]ons, but also to prosecute and manage the evidence for supporting the same before the justices of the peace, before whom such informac[i]ons are lodged. It is the duty of a collector of Excise to hear and determine disputes and controversies arising between the supervrs and officers in the performance of their respective dutys, and to examine the complaints made by the supervrs in their diarys against the officers under their inspection,” &c. They further observe that the placing of persons who were never concerned in the revenue at the first step into the office of a collector, will not only be a discouragement to those in that service, but to all other officers who have served long and faithfully in the revenue. 28 Apr. 1716.
Minuted:—“1 May 1716. Read. Lord Coningsby present.”
Also a translation of the above into French. 9 pages, two halves.
2 May. 12. Copy of declaration of Col. Alexr Campbell, of Funnat, captain of an Independent company, viz.:—that in the month of December, in the time of the late Rebellion, Lady Glenorchy, being informed of the design the rebels had to force the men of Breadalbane to join them, sent to him to come with his company and others of the Argyleshire militia to possess her house of Finlarig. Immediately marched thither from Inverary with his company and 400 of the militia, and this broke the designs which the rebels had on Breadalbane and on the adjacent countries, and was otherwise very useful to the Government at that time by straitening the rebels at Perth. Dated at Ednample, 2 May 1716. 1 page.
8 May. 13. “Ane estimate of the cost and charges of a parcel of goods to be bought and shipped on board the Dolphin, Capt. — Hopkins, commdr, for New York, as part of his Majestie's present to the Five nations of Indians under protection of his Majestie's government of the Province of New York.” 8 May 1716.
Letter at the foot of George Bampfield, who provided the same.
Letter ordering the estimate to be prepared, and another list of the articles.
Minuted:—“Wart signd 11th May 1716.” 3 pages.
8 May. 14. Col. Hatt Compton to the Lords of the Treasury, as to the ground which the Comrs of Customs have taken near the garrison to put their timber and materials on for repairing the Custom House. Has examined all the officers and cannot find that that or any other part so near the garrison was ever permitted for such a purpose. If four or five hundred disaffected persons had a design to surprise the garrison, they might be sheltered and undiscovered; or if a fire should happen there, it might endanger the burning “this place.” Has acquainted the Secretary of State with this affair, in order to have some authority to justify the granting of this ground in case any accident should happen. Tower of London, 8 May 1716. 1 page.
[? About
9 May.]
15. Petition of William Sutherland, sometime merchant at Edinburgh, to the Lords of the Treasury. Petitioner being at Inverness in September 1715 with a ship was advised by Mr Duncan Forbes, advocate (who then held out “Cullodin Castle” in defiance of the rebels) to remain in the road in order to carry intelligence to the provost of Edinburgh as to the circumstances of the rebels, the correspondence by land being stopped. This he did. During his stay other ships sailed with fair winds and arrived safely, but petitioner was overtaken by a storm in pursuing his voyage with the intelligence and lost his ship and cargo at Frazerburgh, whereby he was damaged 500l. The master of another ship, who was of the rebellious faction, carried the cargo belonging to petitioner into Dundee, then in possession of the rebels, who, upon petitioner refusing to pay them the duties, imprisoned him, and unloaded the cargo and robbed him of a considerable part. Prays relief.
Two certificates in his favour; one is dated 9 May 1716. 3 pages.
9 May. 16. Report of R. Powys to the Lords of the Treasury. On a memorial from Mrs Elizabeth Bridger, praying to be paid the rent of a ready-furnished house in Duke Street, Westminster, hired of her by Mr Vice-Chamberlain for the Commissioners appointed to settle the Treaty of Commerce between Great Britain and France. Certifies that the house was hired by Mr Vice-Chamberlain for the purpose mentioned from 8 Feb. 1714 at the rent of 200l. per ann., and that 215l. were due to the memorialist. 9 May 1716.
The memorial and two other papers. 5 pages.
12 May. 17. Charles Harison's report concerning licences granted by the Court of Exchequer to compound upon penal laws, &c. from 17 Jan. 1715 to 18 Feb. following, and from 3 March 1715 to 12 May 1716.
Two papers. 6 double pages.
[? About
14 May.]
18. Petition of Patrick McDowall, Esq,, to the King. His father-in-law, Robert Martin, who was farmer of the Excise in the county of Aberdeen for the years 1693. 1694, and 1695, was disturbed during his lease by the justices of the peace on pretence of the general famine, whereby he suffered great damage. The damages were found to amount to 910l. sterling. Petitioner and his father-in-law have lain out of that sum for 20 years. Prays payment. 1½ pages.
14 May. 19. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. The King has appointed Edward Willes, M.A., of Oriel College, Oxford, to be Decipherer in the room of Dr. John Keill, and he is to be allowed 200l. by the year, as was formerly allowed to Mr William Blencowe, who had that employment. Whitehall, 14 May 1716. 1 page.
18 May. 20. Petition of the mayor, bailiffs, and burgesses of Berwick-upon-Tweed to H.R.H. George, Prince of Wales, Guardian of Great Britain. In their petition in January last they represented that Edward Nealson and 19 others were owners of property situate in Berwick, in a street called Castlegate, between the old and new walls of the town. In October 1715, when the rebels were on this side the Forth, coming southward under the command of McIntosh and others, under the direction of Mr Foster, Capt. Thomas Philips, one of his Majesty's engineers, was in Berwick giving directions for repairing the fortifications; and altho' there were nearly 500 townsmen in arms for his Majesty, yet he (the engineer) judged it absolutely necessary for the strength and safety of the garrison that the houses, &c. of these proprietors should be demolished or the garrison would not be tenable. The petitioners assembled and moved the proprietors thereon, who willingly complied with the demand, not doubting that they should be satisfied; whereupon the houses were razed to the ground, and the proprietors damnified to the amount of 841l. 10s. His Majesty referred the matter to the Board of Ordnance to make good the damage, who answered that they had no money for that purpose. Pray for consideration and relief for the proprietors. With seal and various signatures.
Also (1) “proposals made by Capt. Thomas Philips, engineer, for putting his Majesty's garrison of Berwick-upon-Tweed into a posture of defence, the 17th day of October 1715”; (2) copy of the proceedings of the Guild in this matter; (3rd) an estimate of the value of the houses; and (4) report of the Board of Ordnance on the same subject. Dated 18 May 1716. 5 pages.
[After
18 May.]
21. Copy of petition of John Fogg, of Bolton, in Lancashire, to the Prince of Wales, Guardian of Great Britain, &c. Petitioner rode night and day in and about Preston when the rebels were approaching. An answer brought by him to an express he had carried was of great use, for Col. Stanhope moved out of Preston, and petitioner furnished himself with horse and arms to join Brigadier Honywood. This singular loyalty in that county and at that juncture was more disturbing to his neighbours than the approaching rebels; and the reproaches he since meets with make him stand like a mark to be shot at. Prays employment, military or otherwise. Asks for a vacant clerk's place in the Office of Ordnance.
Copies of two other papers on the same subject. One is a certificate dated 18 May 1716.
Minuted:—“50li for services done at Preston agt ye rebels.” 2 pages.
23 May. 22. A. Spotswood to the Lords [of the Treasury ?]. The mismanagement of the revenues of this colony (Virginia) has caused him to suspend Mr. Ludwell, who acts as Auditor. Encloses copy of the charges against him, in which are contained the several endeavours he used for improving his Majesty's revenues, more particularly that of the quit-rents, and what obstructions he has encountered. If the produce of the quit-rents in former years be compared with that revenue in the two last years, since he has obtained the enactment of laws thereon, the comparison will show that his endeavours have not been unprofitable; and their Lps will be the more surprised that an officer managing that revenue should so far forget his duty as openly to oppose all the measures by which that revenue has been increased. While those who ought to be assisting run counter to all his schemes, and make their court to the people by sacrificing the just rights of the Crown, the best projected schemes may be rendered ineffectual. Has given directions to the Receiver-General to remit into the Exchequer what is yet unpaid of the 3,000l. required by her late Majesty's instructions to be paid out of the quit-rents. Virginia, May 23, 1716.
Accompanied by another paper entitled:—Observations upon the mismanagements of the King's revenues of Virginia with the Lieutenant-Governor's charge against the Deputy-Auditor. 8 pages.
24 May. 23. Affidavit of Abraham Canes, of the parish of St Andrews, Holborn, hackney coachman, viz., that he applied to Thomas Sutton, Esq., one of the Comrs for regulating hackney coachmen, for a licence to drive a hackney coach. Mr. Sutton agreed thereto, provided he would give a gratuity. Deponent gave him a guinea, and 1s. 8d. for the plates. Mr Sutton also obliged him to pay one pound for the first month's rent for the plates, altho' the month was expired, except four or five days. About a fortnight after the delivery of the plates, the deponent gave Mr Sutton the guinea; applied again several times for a licence, and Mr Sutton told him there was a vacancy, but said it would cost him four or five guineas more. This deponent promised to pay the same, but Mr Sutton never procured the licence. 24 May 1716.
Minuted:—“29th July 1717. Enquire of the Solr about Canes.”
Similar affidavit of Joseph Gamball, of the parish of St James's, Westminster, as to the receipt of bribes by Mr Sutton. Same date. 2 pages.
26 May. 24. Report of the principal officers of the Mint to the Lords of the Treasury of the several quantities of tin unsold, and what remains due to the persons in whose hands the tin lies for their security. Mint Office, 26 May 1716. 1 page.
1 June. 25. Report of R. Powys to the [Lords of the Treasury] upon discrepancies in the Earl of Stairs' bill of extraordinaries. The bill exceeds the regulation by 2,124l. 10s. 3d. 1 June 1716.
The bill referred to, one of the items of which is:—
“Given to several persons, the King's subjects and others, who went to observe the Pretender and the Duke of Ormond at several times, and to those who went to the sea port towns and other places of France to observe what was a doing for the Pretender's service 865l.
Also another paper containing the reasons why the Treasury refuse to pay “my Lord Stairs' bill of exrys.” One of the reasons is:—“No one minister who has divers characters is to receive exrys for more than one of 'em, therefore, when he charges as Embr his exrys as Envoy Exry cease.” 4 pages.
2 June. 26. Report of the Postmasters-General to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of the persons claiming by mortgage the estate of Edward Dummer, Esq., formerly contractor for carrying on the correspondence between England and the West Indies. The auditors had considered Mr Dummer's accounts of the West India packet boats from 20 Aug. 1702 to 25 Jan. 1704–5, for which he had received 19,000l. by way of imprest. The postmasters analyze the allegations in the petition and say further, “we have reason to believe that several of Mr Dummer's pacquet boats were taken by the enemy, and no doubt very much to his loss and prejudice, but cannot say whether this undertaking was the sole occasion of the misfortunes he fell into, which afterwards proved so fatal to his affairs, that he became a bankrupt and died insolvent.” The mortgage upon Mr Dummer's estate was previous to any contract or undertaking with the Postmaster-General, and there appears no likelihood of recovering any part of the balance of the accounts, which is reduced to 382l. 10s.d. Petitioners may be gratified in having the imprests, amounting to 19,000l., discharged. 2 June 1716.
The petition and copy of Mr Auditor Harley's report.
Minuted:—“13th June 1716. Prepare a privy seal to allow the account and discharge the balance, but grounded upon the several reports of the Auditor of Imprest and Postmaster-General.”
Also copies of two other papers relating thereto. 12 pages.
4 June. 27. Report of Auditor Harley to the Lords of the Treasury, on the accounts of the Rt Hon. James, Earl of Carnarvon, late Paymaster-General of the Forces, of the money paid by him for the service of the forces in Spain and Portugal for the years 1710 and 1711. Is of opinion that privy seals are necessary for allowing these payments.
The payments noticed are:—
To the German and Italian forces serving in Spain in 1710, 205,320l. 16s. 2d., and in 1711, 238,096l., 6s. 0d.
To Prince Eugene of Savoy in 1710, 4,047l. 1s. 3d., and 4047l. 12s.d. to Count Gallas in 1711.
To Portuguese troops in Catalonia, 103,100l. 10s. for 1710.
To the Palatine troops in Catalonia, 1709–1711, 41,000l. 15s., and 2,009l. 17s. 8d. on account of their extraordinaries.
To the regiment of Grisons, 12,527l. 19s.d.
For subsisting a Spanish regiment of foot and two troops of horse serving in Alicant in the year 1708, 15,277l. 6s. 10¼d.
To the regiment of horse commanded first by Major-Genl Hogan, and afterwards by Sir Daniel Carroll, 16,267l. 12s. 1d., and to another regiment of horse commanded by the Marquis D'Assa, 19,386l. 5s. 6d.
To the Spanish regiment of foot raised in Portugal and commanded by the Earl of Galway, 3,623l. 3s. 6d.
To Antonio Belvitges and Joseph Larissa and Co., undertakers, for supplying the army in Spain with draught and mule carriage for bread, and for the train of artillery for the service of the year 1710, 109,321l. 13s.d.
To his Imperial Majesty on account of his subsidy as King of Spain for the year 1710, 112,042l. 9s.d., and for 1711, 37,970l. 19s.d.
To the King of Portugal 150,000l. for maintaining 13,000 men for the year 1710, and 110,000l. for the year 1711.
And some other smaller sums. 4 June 1716.
Minuted:—“Wts prepared.” 9 pages.
4 June. 28. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. His Majesty is pleased to allow, as a reward for their fidelity, 60l. to Sergeant Gumbleton, a sergeant in the Coldstream regiment, and 40l. to Corporal Muloy, in the same regiment, for having discovered to the Government a design of corrupting the guards at Newgate in order to let several of the prisoners make their escape, and for apprehending one of the persons concerned therein. Whitehall, 4 June 1716.
Minuted:—“5th June 1716. Prepare a warrt.” 1 page.
4 June. 29. Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury. Send an address of the Irish House of Commons in behalf of Sir James Barlow and others, who prayed for the payment of an arrear of 3,636l. 17s. 1d. due to them for clothing the regiments of Corbet, Wade, Kerr, Churchill, Pepper, and Wittewronge. Also the report thereon of Mr Pratt, Deputy Vice-Treasurer. Dublin Castle, 4 June 1716.
The two papers referred to and a petition from the clothiers. 4 pages.
5 June. 30. Report of H. Cholmley, Surveyor-General, to the Lords of the Treasury. Has waited upon the Archbishop of Canterbury in relation to a lease of three barge houses and other the premises belonging thereto, and has adjusted the fine and rents, 5 June 1716.
Minuted:—“Prepare a warrt.” 1 page.
[? About
5 June]
31. Petition to the King, of George Lucy, of Charlcot, in the county of Warwick, Esq., J.P., on behalf of the petty constables and others of that county concerned in arming and subsisting the posse, assembled by the late high sheriff, for suppressing the riots and tumultuous assemblies in and about Birmingham, which happened in July 1715. The constables by virtue of the high sheriff's warrants armed and subsisted 930 men, horse and foot, and the petitioner, with the justices and other gentlemen, after having formed out of the posse a body of horse, attended the high sheriff of Birmingham, and dispersed the rioters, “executed an inquisition,” and seized, fined, and imprisoned several of the ring-leaders of the tumults, and thereby put a stop to the riots in that part of the kingdom. The constables disbursed 841l. 9s. 3d., but his Majesty's justices being at a loss to satisfy the petty constables for that sum, there being no law to authorise any levies upon the several parishes that furnished the men (as appears by the opinion of Sir Edward Northey, the Attorney-General), and the loss being likely to fall on the petty constables, the petitioner refers the whole matter to his Majesty.
Minuted:—“5th June 1716. Prepare a rept to be layd before the King.” Again:—“Rithcart 200l., Petcum 300.” 1 page.
[? About
6 June.]
32. A list of persons, being great objects of charity, who crave pensions, and pray to be recommended by the Comrs for executing the office of Master of the Horse, to the Lords of the Treasury, with a recommendation of their cases. Some of them were servants of King Charles II. and King Wm III.
Signed:—“C. D'Arcy, Fr. Negus.”
Minuted:—“6th June 1716. Not thought reasonable.” 2 pages.
30 May
and
9 June.
33. Copies of two letters:—(1) Edward Northey to the King. Has examined the letters of Messrs Hill and Chetwynd, representing that the pension of 555l. a year allowed by the late Queen Anne to the ministers and school-masters of the poor Vaudois, may be continued, and paid out of the rents of the Savoy hospital, which was dissolved in the last reign, and which have been kept in the Exchequer for pious uses. Declares to his Majesty that at the commencement of the reign of the late Queen Anne, after a visit made by her Majesty's commission, the master and chaplains were deprived of the rents for not conforming to the statutes of King Henry the VIIth, the founder. The late Queen designed to found a hospital in the Savoy, composed of a master, a chaplain, and 20 poor widows out of the revenues, but was prevented by a clause in the Act for the Civil List. The revenues are now at his Majesty's disposal. 30 May 1716.
(2.) James Stanhope to the Lords of the Treasury. It is the King's pleasure that the warrants be prepared for payment of the above sum. 9 June 1716. (French.)
Another paper, representing the miserable condition of these Vaudois, and asking for the allowance of the 555l. per annum. The persecution, which the King of Sicily has frequently raised against them, makes this assistance so much the more necessary for their condition is so low, that they are not able to support their churches of themselves.
Also another copy of a paper (undated), showing that King William [the Third] had in 1694 established a pension for these Vaudois churches, and that Queen Anne had continued the same until the change of ministry at the end of her reign, since which the churches had suffered extremely. It was now hoped that this charity would be resumed on the elevation of his Majesty to the Throne. It was impossible for them to exist if his Majesty did not assist them. The Roman Catholics employed all means to destroy these churches. In proportion as their misery increased, missionaries were sent amongst them, who offered the poor people money to change their religion, &c. A Protestant, who had a suit with a Roman Catholic, was almost sure to lose it. (French.) 6½ pages.
11 June. 34. Secretary Stanhope to the Lords of the Treasury, for directions to be given for payment of 130l. to Adam Cockburne, Esq., his Majesty's Justice Clerk in North Britain, who had been directed to cause some houses in Edinburgh, Linlithgow, and Blackness, to be repaired and fitted for the reception of prisoners. Whitehall, 11 June 1716.
Minuted:—“19th June 1716. Prepare a warrt.” 1 page.
14 June. 35. Wm Popple to the Rt Hon. Sir Wm St Quintin. Encloses a short memorial of Captain Taverner's case. 14 June 1716.
The memorial. Captain Taverner was appointed by her late Majesty to survey the parts of Newfoundland, ceded from France to Great Britain by the late treaty of peace. In May 1715 the King continued him in the employment, and ordered the payment of 217l. 13s., laid out by him in that service, and for his salary at 20s. a day, and ordered him to England to give an account of his further proceedings. Two letters were written by his Majesty's direction for payment to be made, but nothing done. Prayed directions to be given for payment.
Copies of the letters. Also, state of Mr Taverner's case.
Minuted:—“11th July 1716. Read. State the debt from the time he continued and the King's authority for his return.” Again: —“25th March 1716–17. Mr. Taverner to be paid upon his allowce of 20s. p[er] diem to the time of his return.” 5 pages.
[See also Vol. CXCIX. 46.]
16 June. 36. Presentment of the Comrs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the state of the revenue in the Plantations, and the trade there. Are informed that the town of Basterre, in the Island of St. Christopher, which lately belonged to France, is, since the peace, likely to become the chief place for trade in that Island. Ask their Lordships to move his Majesty to have a piece of ground set apart for a Custom House there. Considerable sums due on plantation bonds, &c. in the Leeward Islands, and Bermuda, have been lost for want of a proper court for the recovery of such debts. The Surveyor-General formerly represented the necessity of having a Court of Exchequer in each of them. Lands of 500l. yearly value should be reserved out of the French part of the Island for a fund to defray the charge of the establishment.
[Minuted:—“To be put into French, to be laid before his Maty.”]
Col. William Codrington, the proprietor of the Island of Bermuda (where cattle, sheep, and horses are bred), the Governor of which is appointed by the proprietor, but not approved by his Majesty, as other governors of the British Plantations are, suffers brandy and other prohibited goods to be illegally brought into the Island, to be from thence secretly landed in the other islands. Propose that the King should signify to Col. Codrington, who resides at Antego, to send strict orders to his Governor not to suffer any illegal trade. Propose that the officers of Customs be excused from appearing in arms, when the militia are drawn out in the several islands. His Majesty's pleasure should be signified to the Governors of Barbadoes and Antego, that they recommend to the respective assemblies the passing of a law to empower his Majesty, by commission, to appoint wharfs and keys for shipping and landing goods.
[Each of the above clauses is minuted as above.]
Are of opinion that the officers of the Customs in Barbadoes and the Leeward Islands, mentioned in a list marked A, should for the future be established as the rest of the officers of the Customs are in those Islands. Pray a warrant for the same.
[Minuted:—“Wt to be prepared.”]
Pray that proper directions may be given to restrain the commanders of ships of war, stationed on these islands and the continent of America, from transporting goods without entry or payment of duties.
[Minuted:—“Copy of this to be sent to the Admlty.”]
Mr Craven, the Governor of South Carolina, has, instead of protecting their officers, discountenanced and obstructed them in their duty, whereby illegal trade is openly carried on, as is set forth in a paper marked B. Ask for his Majesty's pleasure to be signified thereon.
[Minuted:—“To be put into French for the King.”]
His Majesty's shares of the moneys paid to Governors on account of penalties and forfeitures for breach of acts of trade and navigation, are refused to be given up by them to the officers of Customs, upon pretence that they are applicable to particular uses of the respective governments, &c., as appears by paper marked C. [Similar minute.]
“Propose that his Majesty's pleasure be signified to the several Governors thereon. The Surveyor of the southern part of the Continent of America, has complained that Mr Norris, the naval officer of Jamaica, has assumed the sole privilege and power of entering and clearing vessels, &c., and has opposed the officers of Customs, and was guilty of practices set forth in a paper marked D. Recommend that the Governor or Commander-in-Chief of the Island make an inquiry thereon, &c. 16 June 1716.”
Minuted:—“23d July 1717. Such part as is proper to be laid before the King to be put in French. Warrts to be prepared for what is in my Lord's power.”
“A letter to the Admlty as to what relates to the men-of-war.’
The above papers are not now with this presentment. 7 pages.
18 June. 37. Earl of Manchester to the [Secretary to the Treasury]. As he is only to be paid from 1707 to 1711, which includes (with what he formerly received) the 4,000li now ordered, so from that time to the Queen's death he is entirely to lose. Is confident there is no person who has arrears due to him who is not paid already beyond that year, or has received some part, whereas he has received none. This entitles him in justice to have an order to be paid out of the first money of the Queen, which must be done by signing a letter to the Exchequer, which will be a real service to him, especially if he should be named as one of the bed chamber “to follow the King.” 18 June 1716. 2 pages.
18 June. 38. The Duke of Somerset to the Lords of the Treasury. Desires them to order 4,000l. for the extraordinaries of his Majesty's stables. When that is received, will be accountable for 15,000l. Their Lordships shall soon afterwards have a just and satisfactory account of the whole receipts and expenses whilst he has executed the office of Master of the Horse. 18 June 1716.
Minuted:—“Read 5 Aug. 1716. To be considered when other paymts are to be made on ye Civil List to-morrow.” 1 page.
[? About
20 June.]
39. Petition of John Elphinstone to the Lords of the Treasury. Has the care of the Cotton Library, so much valued both at home and abroad, and generally esteemed the best collection of its kind now anywhere extant, consisting of the most useful manuscripts, records, and other memorials in most languages, of great use and service for the knowledge and preservation of our Constitution, both in Church and State. The library is contained in rooms near adjoining the river, and will perish by dampness if provision is not made for firing. Has been at charge of 35l. for firing and for cleaning the rooms, and has received no salary. 30l. a year will be but sufficient for the necessary expenses. Prays for the 35l. mentioned, and for 10l. for a quarter's salary, from Michaelmas to Christmas, as well as for an annual provision.
Minuted:—‘20th June 1716. An allowance of 30li p[er] ann. to be made to him for defraying the charges of firing, candle, &c. Prepare a warrt for wt is due at Midsr on his salary. My Lords allow him 30li p[er] ann. from Micħs last.” 1 page.
20 June. 40. James Stanhope to Captain Paddon. As there is no likelihood of his succeeding in his negotiation to procure a treaty or truce with the Moors, his Majesty revokes his commission, and recalls him. Encloses the Revocation, lodging in the hands of the Lieut.-Governor of Gibraltar power to set a treaty on foot with the Emperor of Morocco. The papers necessary are to be left with him. Will endeavour to get the bills of his extraordinaries paid. On his return home may depend upon being provided for according to his rank in the Navy. 20 June 1716.
Also the Revocation. 2½ pages.
[?About
21 June.]
41. Petition of Sir Bibye Lake, Bart. By agreement of the Treasury had paid and assigned 13,149l. 10s.d. in discharge of Robert Peters' debt to the Crown as Receiver-General of Hertfordshire, whereupon all the estates of Peters should be granted to petitioner. Prays a short day to be granted for hearing counsel against a caveat lodged by General Wills against the assignments being accepted, and for directions to be given to enable the petitioner to obtain a grant of Peters' estates, &c.
Minuted:—“21st June 1716. Give notice to all partys concern'd to attend with their councel the 2d July next,”
Again:—“Mr Bambridge is concerned for all but the petr, so he to have notice with a copy of the petn that he may be prepared to answer.” 1 page.
[A full account of the hearing of this case is entered in the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 37. 27 Sept. 1716.]
22 June. 42. Memorial of the Comrs of the Equivalent for Scotland to the Lords of the Treasury. Some time since presented a memorial to their Lps containing an estimate of the salaries of the Comrs, and allowances for clerks, &c., but no directions have been given thereon. Once more lay the same before their Lps, and pray an order of a privy seal for the same. 22 June 1716.
Minuted:—“29th June 1716. Look into the clause of appropriation.” Again:—“½ a year's salary out of the fonds of the year 1715.” 1 page.
23 June. 43. Mr Secretary Stanhope to the Lords of the Treasury. For payment forthwith of 200l. to Charles Stanhope, 100l. to Mr James Payzant, 100l. to Mr Thomas Brereton, 50l. to Michael Armestead, and 20l. to Mr Isaac Burrows, who were to attend his Majesty in his absence from the kingdom. And the following allowances were to be settled upon them in place of board wages, viz., to Charles Stanhope 20s. per diem, to each of the four clerks 10s. per diem, and to Isaac Burrows 5s. per diem. 23 June 1716.
Minuted:—“29th June 1716. Make a warrt for these upon the P.S. dormt.” (2) “A warrt prepared for 470li to enable them to give their attendance.” (3) “4th July 1716. Prepare a P.S. according to this l~re for the weekly allowances.” (4) “7th Febry 1716–17. A warrt to be prepared according to the certificate to be sent from the Secretary of the time of their departure and return.”
Also the certificate referred to in the last minute. 3 pages.
26 June. 44. Mr Secretary Stanhope to the Lords of the Treasury. For directions to provide a present, not to exceed 500l. or thereabouts, for the Dey of Tripoli, to be sent by the envoy who is returning thither. 26 June 1716.
Minuted:—“29th June 1716. Prepare S. Manual. Warrt sign'd.”
Also a list of the articles. 1½ pages.
26 June. 45. The same to the same. The Envoy from Tripoli having taken leave, his Majesty is resolved that he and his retinue shall be transported thither at his expense, and the Envoy desiring to go in the ship belonging to the bearer, Mr Francia, his Majesty's pleasure is that they contract with Mr Francia for the transport. 26 June 1716.
Minuted:—“29th June 1716. Ex. wt precedts there have been.” “Upon search it does not appear that any paymts have been made out of the civill list revenues for services of this kind; but it is found that in Mr Lodington's bill of extr~ys, he had an article of 100l. allowed him for the hire of a vessell to carry the Tripoline Envoy from thence to Port Mahone; and it is therein menc[i]oned that that governmt obliged him so to do.” 1 page.
20 June. 46. Power of attorney granted by Captain William Taverner, of the parish of St. Brides, alias Bridgets, London, gentleman, to Thomas Vernon, Esq., to receive 1,269l. due to him (the captain) as Surveyor of such parts of the coast of Newfoundland and the adjacent islands as the French have usually fished upon. 29 June 1716.
Acceptance of the power by Thomas Vernon.
Petition from him to the Treasury for the above sum.
Another paper docquetted:—“Mr Vernon's power to receive what is due to Capt. Taverner.”
In the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 7, 11 July 1716, is:—“Mr Taverner's demand, as he had a commission from the late Queen, and went Surveyor to Newfoundland (attended by Mr Vernon), is read, as also a letter from the Treasury, dated the 5th of August 1713, opposing the Commission and the charge thereof. My Lords tell Mr Vernon it wants great considerac[i]on before the demand be paid, but order it to be stated for the time he acted under the King's authority to the day of his returne.”
Again at p. 31, 17 Sept. 1716:—“My Lords, upon a second application of Mr Vernon in behalf of Mr Taverner for his salary as Surveyor of Newfoundland are pleas'd to answer that they see no reason for making him any allowance, a former Treasury having oppos'd both that Commission and the charge of it.” 4 pages.
[? About
4 July.]
47. The case of Mr Charles Hyett. The office of Constable and Keeper of the Castle of Gloucester has been held by patent from the Crown time out of mind for three lives. Two of the three lives in the last patent are dead, and the interest of the present life is vested in Mr Hyett. Her Majesty died before the arrangement of the surrender of the one life and addition of two others was completed. Mr. Hyett paid 200l. for the same, and prays directions to be given for passing the grant.
Minuted:—“4th July 1716. Speak wth Mr Lowndes.” Again, “3 Aug. 1716. The lease to pass.” 1 page.
5 July. 48. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. Transmits the petition of Frances, the wife of Henry, late Viscount Bolingbroke, praying the King to grant her the estate, real and personal, of her husband, pursuant to the power reserved to his Majesty in the Act appointing Commrs to inquire of the estates of certain traitors. His Majesty's pleasure is, that directions shall be given forthwith for taking an inquisition of the real estate of her husband, and for granting her in the meantime the personal estate for her own use. Whitehall, 5 July 1716.
Minuted:—“19th Septr 1716. Prepare a warrt for the personal estate containd in the inventory thereof; as for the real estate, it is in the power of the Comrs for Forfeitures, and my Lords cannot meddle with it.” 1 page.
9 July. 49. Inventory of the goods seized on board the sloop “Betty” by his Majesty's officers of the Customs in South Carolina, and afterwards taken from the said officers by the Marshal belonging to the Depty Governor of South Carolina. Signed by the Collector. July 9, 1716. 1 page.
11 July. 50. Report of the Attorney and Solicitor-General to the Lords of the Treasury, on a letter of the Comrs of the Revenues in Ireland, enquiring whether they are to proceed on the Act passed in Ireland for attainting the late Duke of Ormonde, to get his estate into the King's hands, in regard that an Act has passed in Britain appointing Comrs to enquire into the estates of certain traitors, &c. Have perused the Act, and are of opinion that the late Duke's estate is within the power of the Comrs, and therefore no proceedings can be taken on the Act passed in Ireland for obtaining that estate, the same being controlled by the British Act. 11 July 1716.
The letter referred to.
Minuted:—“16th July 1716. Send a copie of this report to the Comrs of Revenue in Ireland. 17th do. Sent accordingly.” 2 pages.
12 July. 51. Lord Chief Baron Smith (Scotland) to the Rt Hon. Lord Torrington, one of the Lords of the Treasury. Transmits a representation from the Barons of the Exchequer of Scotland that it may be considered by the Lords of the Treasury. It appears to him to have a plain tendency to the advancement of his Majesty's interests here. Edinburgh, 12 July 1716.
The representation of the Barons referred to. The revenues will not bear a greater weight. Warrants for two chaplains have been stopped, as it would make an addition, &c. Their Lps should provide that no officer of the Customs should be admitted to the office till he has passed the examination of some skilful officer to be appointed for that purpose, and a former order of the Treasury should be revived, by which good officers are to be advanced according to their “ancientry” when vacancies happen. Many officers appear quickly to have skill enough to hurt the revenue. The Barons wish more of them were sufficiently skilful to be rightly serviceable in it. 4 pages.
[? About
16 July.]
52. Memorial of Duke Parsons, late deputy to Thomas Foley, Esq., one of the Auditors of Imprests, to the Lords of the Treasury. Has served in the office 38 years. 1st, under Mr Auditor Brydges, 2nd, under Mr Auditor Maynwaring, and 3rd, for near 20 years last as deputy to Mr Auditor Foley. Was concerned in the examination and making up the accounts of the two last wars, and attended the late Comrs for the debts to the army. In making up the final account of the late Earl of Orford, as Treasurer of the Navy and Victualling, which determined in 1699, he found so great a surplusage come out due to the accountant, as made him apprehensive that some mistakes must have happened in the preceding accounts. Discovered that several great sums had not been charged, amounting to 120,000l., and surcharged the final account therewith. This would otherwise have become a surplusage due to the accountant. Also disallowed 400l. on Mr Bertie's account, as Treasurer of the Ordnance. Notwithstanding these and other services done to the public he was on a sudden dismissed from his employment by the Auditor on 29 April last, and Mr James Thomas, the next clerk, was appointed for no other cause than to reward him for services done to the affairs of his [? the Auditor's] family. Prays to be provided for under the Crown, and for a reward for his services.
Copy of certificate of the Deputy Auditors corroborating the statement as to the 400l. Dated 16 July 1716. 2½ pages.
17 July. 53. P. Methuen to Sir Clement Cotterel. Upon a representation from the Lords of the Admiralty of the inconveniences of the Envoy of Tripoli being transported in the ship appointed to carry Mr Wortley Montague's baggage to Leghorn, his Highness has directed their Lps to appoint a frigate going against the Sallee Rovers, to carry the Envoy to Port Mahon, from whence Vice-Admiral Baker will be ordered to appoint a ship to transport him to Tripoli. Is to hasten the going of the Envoy on board the ship which is in the river. Whitehall, 17 July 1716. 1½ pages.
17 July. 54. Memorial of Mr Thomas Hewett to the Lords of the Treasury. Finds he is turned out of his offices, one of which (very inconsiderable) he has possessed since the Revolution. Asks their Lps who shall finish the repairs and woodsales, &c. Only desires that things should be finished according to his contracts, Gives schedule of works in progress. Is informed that Mr Banks, clerk, and Mr Neale, Verderer of Sherwood Forest, and others have disturbed the workmen and colliers, servants to persons who bought windfall wood, “bound them into bonds, taken them into custody for some time to the great damage of the charcoal pits then on fire, &c., under pretence of disturbing the deer in the fence month, tho' no damage is done to them; a practice unheard of, and never used in that or any other forest,” and altogether illegal. Takes it to be a “peake” and malice to him, because he would not permit them to fell the King's timber under pretence of fee trees. Hopes their Lps will give him leave to right himself, and that neither he, his chapman nor workmen, may be hindered for the future by his successor or any other persons in selling or working up the windfall wood which is so justly his. 17 July 1716.
Minuted:—“26th July 1716. Read. Mr Young, the prest surveyor, is to repair the dog kennel at Windsor, where Mr Hewett has made contracts & has raysed moneys by woodsales to performe the same; he is to finish the works. In other cases Mr Younge is to finish the workes and to make good the contracts of Mr Hewett. Mr Hewett is to proceed in selling the windfalls upon such warrants as he shall receive, but to be accotable for the same.” [These minutes are also entered in the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 14.] 2 pages.
17 July. 55. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Langham Booth, Esq., who had prosecuted John Ponting, yeoman, and Anne his wife, and John Goulsbury, as outlaws. By virtue of a special “capias utlegat[ur]” against them it was found that John Ponting was possessed of certain cattle which the sheriff seized to the value of 38l. As it appears that the petitioner's case is as set forth, recommends the grant of the privy seal for that amount as prayed for. 17 July 1716.
The petition, copy of writ and inquisition, and an affidavit.
Minuted:—“17th Sept. 1716. Prepare a p. seal.” 4½ pages.
20 July. 56. Letter of Jo. Taylor, by command of the Lords of the Treasury, to Thomas Hewett, Esq., directing him to attend Mr Attorney and Mr Solicitor-General, and advise with them what was best to be done on a petition of Mrs Ruperta Howe, Chief Ranger and Keeper of the Forest and Chace of Alice Holt and Woolmer, in the co. of Southampton. 13 June 1715.
Memorandum of Mr Hewett's proceedings thereon. He searched the Tower, Exchequer, and Rolls Offices for iters and perambulations to prove Binswood within the forest, and to get depositions out of the country to prove the same, &c., and left them with the Attorney, but could not get him to make the report. 20 July 1716.
The memorial referred to. Complains of the daily disorders committed in the forest by unlawfully destroying the deer and covert. The offenders come in the day and night, and are too numerous for the few officers of the forest to oppose them. Also of a great waste committed in a wood called Binswood, containing about 160 acres, well stocked with young thriving timber trees, which Sir Simon Stuart caused to be entirely cut down and disposed of to his own use under pretence of right, 3¼ pages.
20 July. 57. Memorial of the Comrs of Enquiry respecting Forfeitures to the Lords of the Treasury. Have made as proper an establishment for the respective Commissions of England and Scotland as they can. To encourage persons willing to make discoveries, as well as to possess those who entertain hopes of concealment with an apprehension of detection, and to save the public from the rewards, have named officers to make and receive exact accounts of the concealed forfeitures, &c. Again pray their Lps to expedite the commission to Mr Joseph Henry to be receiver of the moneys arising from the forfeited estates in Ireland, 3,000l. will be immediately necessary for the Commissions of England and Scotland, before the Comrs and their officers can set out or enter on business. Ask their Lps' warrant to Mr Henry for payment of that sum. Speaker's Chambers, 20 July 1716.
Also “A list of officers chosen and sworn by the Commissioners of Enquiry.” 3 pages.
The above memorial resulted from the following minute in the Minute Book, Vol, 21, p. 8, 17 July 1716:—“The Commissioners for Forfeitures attending are call'd in. My Lords acquaint them that they will settle the list wch themselves gave in of their under officers and the salaries they think reasonable to be allow'd them, and will send it to them without loss of time. And their Lordships desire that as anything should occur in the way of their management proper for their Lps to determine upon, they will transmit it to them by way of memorial.”
[? About
20 July.]
58. Memorial of Joseph Banks, Esq., Register and Clerk of the Forest of Sherwood, and of the Swainmote, Woodmote, and Attachment Courts held therein, to the Lords of the Treasury. Two fee trees are yearly due by ancient usage to the person executing the above offices, to be taken in that forest in barking time, to wit, one for the Swainmote and the other for the other courts. Memorialist has executed the above offices for several years, and has not yet had the trees, but has been put off by Mr Hewett, surveyor or woodward of the forest, sometimes on pretence that her late Majesty would allow a reasonable sum in lieu thereof, at others, that only one fee tree was yearly due. Asks to have the fee trees due to him out of the wood blown down, or otherwise.
Minuted:—“20 July 1716. Send this to the Surv. Woods to state the fact and report.” 1 page.
20 July. 59. Memorial of Theodore Randue to the Lords of the Treasury. Her late Majesty, on the decease of Mrs. Brown, ordered him to take charge of the Garden House at Windsor, and promised him 30 guineas yearly from her own hands, above 40l. per ann., which Mr. Brown had. Received one half year of the 40l. to Midsummer 1714, but nothing since, nor one penny of the 30 guineas. Prays for payment of 72l. 5s. due thereon.
Minuted:—“20 July 1716. The Chancr will speak to Lord Chamberlain about this.” 1 page.
[After
20 July.]
60. An account of several expenses incurred for the service of his Majesty's land forces in the year 1715, not provided for by Parliament. 3 large pages.
24 July. 61. Joseph Bentley, Collector of Customs at Lancaster, to Lord—. Asks his Lp to preserve him from his enemies, who had alarmed him a second time by telling him he is to be turned out after 25 years' service. Encloses copy of petition and several memorials, which he begs may be read at the Board. Custom House, Lancaster, 24 July 1716.
The copies of the documents referred to, the originals of some of which have been already noticed (see Vol. xciii. 94). 5 pages.
[? About
25 July.]
62. Petition of Edward Young, Esq., Surveyor-General of his Majesty's Woods, to the Lords of the Treasury. Prays the grant of an order to Thomas Hewett, Esq., to deliver to petitioner the books and papers belonging to his office.
Minuted:—“25th July 1716. Prepare a warrt as usual.”
[This is entered in the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 13, “Prepare a warrant for Mr Hewet to deliver over all muniments belonging to the office of Surveyr of the Woods to Mr Young, who succeeds him in that office, in like manner as Mr Wilcox did when succeeded by Mr Hewet.] 1 page.
26 July. 63. Report of the Attorney-General to the Lords of the Treasury, on a letter of Sir Nathaniel Lloyd, his Majesty's Advocate-General, relating to the condemnation of the ship “The Duke of Vendosme,” taken as prize on the coasts of Scotland when carrying ammunition to the rebels. The question is whether the ship ought to be condemned to the King in jure coronæ or in his Admiralty as a perquisite of the Admiralty. Is of opinion that the perquisites of the Admiralty, being reserved to the Crown, it is not of any consequence in which manner it is condemned. Since the cause came to him, the judge of the Admiralty has adjudged it to be proceeded against as a perquisite of the Admiralty, and this sentence cannot be altered without an appeal, which it does not deserve. As to the Act appointing commissioners for forfeited estates, is of opinion that this forfeiture is not within that Act. 26 July 1716.
The letter referred to. 3 pages.
26 July. 64. Report of the Attorney-General (Northey) to the Lords of the Treasury, on a representation of the difficulties by the Comrs of Customs of Scotland in respect to goods imported that had paid the duties demanded in the Pretender's name, the Comrs being of opinion that ships that brought such goods in aid of the rebels were forfeited. Is of opinion that if the importation was designed for the rebels the ship and goods might be seized and condemned in the Court of Exchequer. Also as to certain debentures. 26 July 1716.
The paper referred to. 2½ pages.
27 July. 65. The account of all salaries, wages, or other annual payments issuing and payable out of wood sales by the hands of Edward Wilcox, Esq., late Surveyor of the Woods, and the time to which they have been respectively paid. Also an account of the number of the several yet undeclared accounts which the said Mr Wilcox has hitherto exhibited, and in what forwardness they are towards passing. Signed, Tho. Jett, auditor. 27 July 1716.
Minuted:—“3d August 1716. Read.” 2 pages.
27 July. 66. Memorial of Thomas Hewett, Esq., late Surveyor of H.M. Woods, to the Lords of the Treasury. The minute on his memorial relating to repairs and wood sales in the forests, &c. will embroil the service between him and his successor and the passing his accounts, &c. for these services, and wood sales are in one warrant, entered on record in the Auditor's office. If their Lps order him to finish all their warrants now in the Auditor's office, it will make everything easy, and no ways interfere with his successor. Prays their Lps to hear him a moment on the subject. 27 July 1716.
Minuted:—“27 July 1716. Read.” 1 page.
30 July. 67. Mr Secretary Stanhope to the Lords of the Treasury. Encloses the petition of Sir James Abercrombie. His Majesty's pleasure is that in consideration of the great expense he has been at whilst residing in Dunkirk, and overlooking the demolition of that place, their Lordships comply with his demand for an allowance of 3l. a day. Hanover, 30 July 1716.
Minuted:—“Write to Mr. Stanhop that Sr James Abercrombie was one of ye 3 who was entitled to 3li a day among them in the absence of the Govr, for wch provision was made in Parliamt, and he can have no more unless the King give him a new title out of the Civil List money, wch my Lords cannot advise.”
The memorial referred to states, “That he was formerly commandant of his Majesty's troops at Dunkirk, and one of the Comrs for the demolition thereof. Has not received any reward for that service. Prays consideration for what he has undergone during four years in the execution of his duties. Was sent in the month of June 1712 with a commission from Queen Anne to settle the evacuation of Dunkirk, and to prepare for the reception of the British troops in the fortress. Was established as commandant of the garrison under the Governor, Major Hill, who returned to England on account of his health, and the petitioner commanded the troops till the coming of the King to the Crown. At the peace there remained at Dunkirk, beyond the British troops, which consisted of nine battalions, the marines and the galleys of the most Christian King. The reputation the fortress had, being on the point of demolition, drew a great number of general officers and persons of distinction of all nations to see it, and the commandant felt obliged to perform many acts of politeness. The Queen, foreseeing this, had proposed 5l. a day for the table of the Governor. Beyond these expenses, were the embarkation of troops, and various other expenses. 22 July 1716. (French).
A schedule of his claims. At the foot he hopes that if there can be no alteration as to the Comrs of the demolition, he may have an allowance of 3l. a day for all the time he resided at Dunkirk, being full four years.
Also “An estimate of the extraordinary charges relating to Dunkirk for which no provision has been made by Parliamt.”
Also a query as to what money had been paid to the memorialist, with the following reply on the back:—“There has not been any money paid (in Mr. Moore's office) to Sir James Abercrombie as a Comissr for inspecting the demolition of Dunkirk.—Tho. Parr. Aug. 9, 1716.” 7 pages, 5 lines.
31 July. 68. Report of the Barons of the Exchequer of Scotland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of Sir George Warrender, Bart., M.P. for the city of Edinburgh. [The memorialist states that whilst Provost of Edinburgh, and since the beginning of the Rebellion, by order of the Secretary of State, he went from London to Edinburgh, and discovered and prevented the attempts of the rebels on that town and castle, and he was put to great charge, and was obliged to lay aside a large and gainful share of his trade, whereby he has much diminished his private estate, which is heavily burthened by a large “few duty” paid to the Exchequer; prays relief of this burthen until his Majesty shall grant him a warrant for any certain sum which he shall think fit.]
Cannot be of opinion that any of the property referred to should be anyways diminished by gifts or grants of this nature. Edinburgh, 31st July 1716.
Minuted:—“17th Decr 1716. Read.” 2 pages.
31 July. 69. Report of the Barons of the Exchequer of Scotland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of the Lord Lovat. Conceive such gift as is sought for may be legally granted. Edinburgh, 31 July 1716.
Minuted:—“20th August 1716. My Lords agree to this rept.”
The memorial referred to, stating that Alexander Mackenzie, of Fraserdale, by taking advantage of the misfortunes of Lord Lovat, found means to become master of several old rights and titles to the estate formerly enjoyed by that family, and by being in possession of that estate at the time of the Rebellion, furnished the rebel army with a regiment consisting of persons of the name of Frazer, related to or dependants of that family, till Lord Lovat, by his appearing in arms for his Majesty in the north of Scotland had so great an influence over the name of Frazer that they publicly, with their arms, withdrew themselves from the late Earl of Marr, and the above Alexander Mackenzie joined Lord Lovat and assisted him when he, with his men, took the town of Inverness. Under the Act passed in the last year judgment was pronounced against the above Alexander Mackenzie, and his goods and the profits of his estate during his life are vested in the King. His Majesty may grant to any person (as is usual by the law of Scotland) the 500l. penalty and “single and life rent escheat.” The value of the lands is said to be about 500l. yearly, the lands are, however, much encumbered, but the immediate making of a grant to a person of credit in that country, and well affected to his Majesty, would greatly strengthen the Government, both as to seizing any of the rebels who yet abscond, the disarming their fellows, and the encouraging those who are well affected, and consequently confirming the peace of that part of the kingdom. Asks that he (Lord Lovat), for his signal services, and for the encouragement of his kinsmen, may have a grant of the 500l. penalty, and single and life rent escheat of Alexander Mackenzie, having a natural right to the lands possessed by Mackenzie when he joined in the Rebellion.
Copy of the grant proposed.
The opinions of David Dalrymple and Ja. Stewart as to the King's power to grant the same. 8 pages.