|
| 1722 |
1. New year's gifts or other annual gratuities for the secretaries and clerks; also for the Lords. Three papers. 5 pages.
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| 11 Jan. |
2. Draft of minute of 11 Jan. 1721. Commencing: “The Merchants of Bristol, Liverpool, Whitehaven, and Liverpool attend, and Serjeant Pengelly on behalf of those of Whiteh[aven] and Cockerm[outh]. The Comrs of Customs are also present. Their petitions [? are read] complaining of great frauds committed by the importation of tobacco from Scotland into several parts of England and sold at a lower rate that [? than] tobacco of equal goodness can be sold by ye English importers of tobacco in those parts, or than could be sold, considering ye charge of land carriage, if ye dutys upon ye sayd tobacco imported were regularly and duely payd, wch fraud it is apprehended arises chiefly upon ye short weighing of ye tobacco for ye payment of ye dutys when imported.”
The minute refers also to the Comrs report thereon and proposed remedies, &c.
The commencement of the above minute is only entered in the Minute Book, vol. 23, p. 125, space being left of several pages.
Three other papers relating to this business, entitled:—(1.) “Answers of the merchants of Glasgow to the memoriall of the merchants of Whitehaven, relating to the lessening the duties on tobacco.” (2.) “Answers of the merchants of Glasgow to the petition of sundrie merchants of Bristoll, &c.” Both with numerous signatures, and both have on the back, “Lect. 11 Janry 1721–2.” (3.) Various notes of what was testified by witnesses on the same subject. 15½ pages.
|
| 15 Jan. |
3. The Earl of Rothes to —. About six years ago, when Lord Townshend was Secretary of State, his Lordship procured for the Earl his Majesty's Commission as Chamberlain of Fife and Strathern, with a yearly salary of 320l. There is about 200l. more of the few duties payable to the Crown which used to be allowed to his predecessors in that office, and his Lp assured him that he should be in no worse case than they. Had memorialized the Treasury for a discharge of that small surplus. There is also a small balance due by him to the Exchequer as Sheriff Principal of Fife and Aberdeenshire, for which he asks a discharge. It bears a very small portion to the expense he laid out on the country for his Majesty's service during the Rebellion. Leslie, Jan. 15, 1722. [i.e. 1721–2.]
Minuted:—“24th Jan. 1721–2. Ordered.” 2 pages.
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| 23 Jan. |
4. “A particular of the causes now under prosecution with the states thereof.” Signed:—“A. Cracherode, 23o Janrii 1721.” 9 pages.
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| 25 Jan. |
5. Four memorials from the South Sea Company to the Lords of the Treasury for certain stock to be created, for allowances to be made to the Company, &c. 4 pages.
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| 26 Jan. |
6. “Representation of the Deputy Receivers General of the Post Office relating to the deduction of 6d per lb.” Setting out various items of expense on which they press for a remittance of the tax. Jan. 26, 1721.
Minuted:—“26th June 1722. The articles marked to be excepted, those not marked are to be paid and placed to the account of incidts.
Again:—“26 July 1722. The pencons charged on the Post Office before his Mats Accession to the Crown to be excepted. Warrt signd 8th Augt 1722.” 2 pages.
|
| 26 Jan. |
7. Report of the Comrs of the Navy to Mr Lowndes, on the petition of the Comrs of the Navy. By an Act of 7 & 8 Will. III. the Navy board was directed to buy English, in preference to foreign made sail cloth, and to allow the makers 2d a yard above what would be paid for foreign. The act expired in 1702, since which time very great improvements have been made therein; so that it is in all respects equal, if not superior, to the best foreign, and no foreign cloth is bought. As to the encouragement to be given to the manufacturers, they submit that to their Lordships. 26 Jan. 1721.
The report is written on the back of the petition.
Minuted:—“16th Feb. 1721–2. My Lords think they should apply to parlt for such reward as the house shall think fit.” 2 pages.
|
| 29 Jan. |
8. Comrs of Ordnance to the Lords of the Treasury. A declaration of ejectment having been delivered by the Trustees of Sir John Morden's charity, in order to recover possession of some lands belonging to the Armoury Mills, that are under the care of the Comrs, they desire their Lordships will order the Auditor of the county of Kent, and the surveyor of the King's lands, to search for the title deeds and surveys of all lands that now do, or formerly did, belong to the Crown, in the parishes of Greenwich and Lewisham; and that they let the Comrs' solicitor peruse the same and have copies thereof, to defend the King's title now in dispute; and to make discovery of other lands belonging to the Crown. Jan. 29, 1721.
Minuted:—“31 Jan. 1721–2. To the Survr Lands and the Audr of Kent to transmit the papers, deeds, and surveys to the Board of Ordnance according to their desire. L~re writ 1 Feb. 1721.” 1 page.
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| 31 Jan. |
9. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury on the memorial of Col. Adam Williamson, which related to the case of Thomas Davis, a soldier, who had been fined ten pounds, and committed to prison until it was paid, the offence was only giving Mary Ward “a slap in the face.” He had already suffered almost a year's imprisonment, and is described as a poor honest fellow. Recommending the remission of the fine and the discharge of the prisoner. 31 Jan. 1721.
Minuted:—“12th March 1721–2. Approved.”
The memorial, a certificate, and an affidavit. 4¼ pages.
|
| — Jan. |
10. William Popple, on behalf of the Lords of Trade, to Horatio Walpole, Esq., asking for the dispatch of presents to the Indians, Mr. Burnett, Governor of H. M. province of New York, has been successful in his negotiations with the five nations of Indians inhabiting the frontiers of the province, but it is absolutely necessary that they should be as well treated as formerly to prevent them joining the French, who are daily endeavouring to gain them over. Whitehall, Jan. 1721–2. 1½ pages.
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[? About
1 Feb.] |
11. Memorial of Daniel Campble, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury. Katherine, the wife of John Walkinshaw, of Borrowfield, had petitioned the King to grant the benefit of her husband's forfeiture to some person in trust for her and her children. Memorialist represents that he is a very considerable creditor upon the estate, and if the rents and profits were granted to the petitioner and her children, without restriction, memorialist would be deprived of principal and interest, &c. Prays that he may be heard by counsel, or that the grant may be limited.
Minuted:—“1st Feb. 1721–2. Read. Mr Campbell and Mr Hamilton present.” 1½ pages.
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| 1 Feb. |
12. Report of the Comrs of Customs, Edinburgh, to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Mr Lane Whitehall. Are of opinion that the salaries of most of the inferior officers in Scotland are no ways equal to the trust reposed in them. The Comrs could therefore wish that better rewards were afforded them, because they think that the lowness of the salaries subjects the officers too much to temptation, and nothing is more apparent than that the revenue daily decreases by the corruption of the officers. “Custom House, Edinburgh, 1 February 1721–2.”
The petition referred to, and “An account of seizures made and condemned in his Majesties Court of Excheqr at Edinburgh, by Lane Whitehall, commander of the Royal George ‘Yatch.’”
Minuted:—“28th June 1722. The Commrs to advise what increase of salary they think Mr Whitehall deserves, and what addition the inferior officers ought to have for their encouragement.” 4 pages.
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| 3 Feb. |
13. “Copy of Mr Robert Sutton's letter to Mr Sec[reta]ry Craggs in favour of Mr Reith,” described as “director of the late manufactory at Versailles, a man of good parentage and of a very good character for probity and fair dealing.” He was applying for protection and liberty to carry home, free from duty, his effects, which consisted chiefly of work unfinished to a considerable value. Paris, 3 Feb. 1721. 1 page.
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| 3 Feb. |
14. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Elizabeth Hopton, widow, who was induced to sell several small pieces of plate and some other things in a method which was against the laws for suppressing unlawful lotteries, for which she was prosecuted by the Attorney General in the court of Exchequer. Prays to have the proceedings stopped. Is of opinion that the petitioner, if convicted, is utterly unable to pay the fines. 3 Feb. 1721.
The petition referred to. Also warrant to stay the proceedings. Dated 8 Feb. 1721. 3 pages.
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[About
8 Feb.] |
15. Memorial of Col. Charles Lanoe to the Lords of the Treasury, asking for the grant of a “letter” to the Lord Lieut. of Ireland, as the Irish Government would not receive a warrant (copy annexed) which memorialist had, authorising him to reserve the clothing then ready till the year 1722, whereby the off reckonings would be saved to be employed in furnishing the arms and accoutrements wanting.
Minuted:—“8 Feb. 1721–2. Prepare a warrt according to the prayer of the petition.”
Copy of the warrant. 2 pages.
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| 10 Feb. |
16. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, on petition of Elizabeth Askew, who had been fined 20 marks, and had ever since lain in the common side of Newgate. The sheriffs of London would have discharged her if the fine had belonged to them, “but the fact being in Middlesex, it belonged to his Majesty.” She was convicted of a misdemeanour and fined 20 marks, and ordered to stand upon the pillory for an hour with a paper fixed upon her head denoting her offence, and to be kept in gaol until she should pay the fine. She has stood in the pillory, and has suffered eight months' imprisonment, and is utterly unable to pay the fine: recommending her discharge.
Minuted:—“12th March 1721–2. Ordered.”
The petition, letter from George Caswell to William Billers, Esq., an order for her discharge, also a copy of her sentence (Latin). 3 pages and 2 halves.
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| 12 Feb. |
17. Certificate signed “Halifax” of the payment out of “Loans on Coals,” 7,936l. 13s. There remained 15,063l. 7s. to be paid to John Leacroft, Esq., for purchase of lands, &c. and building new churches. Exchequer, 12 Feb. 1721. 1 page.
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[? About
12 Feb.] |
18. Resolutions of the House of Commons of 13 Oct. 1721, on the petition of the Hon. Richard Stewart and Thomas Burgh, Esquires, on behalf of themselves and others concerned in the colliery of Ballycastle in the county of Antrim (Ireland). The principal resolution is “that it is the opinion of this committee that the petitioners have fully proved the allegations of their petition, have merited the reward of a thousand pounds in their petition mentioned, and such further encouragement as this Honble House shall think fit.” The House was further of opinion that the petitioners would deserve a further sum of 1,000l. when they should have landed in the port of Dublin 5,000 tons of coals taken out of the colliery.
Minuted:—“Warrt signd 12 Feb. 1721–2.”
Also the petition. 3 pages.
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[? About
12 Feb.] |
19. Resolution of the House of Commons of 25 Oct. 1721, on the petition of Stephen Costilloe, Gent., in favour of addressing the Lord Lieut. of Ireland, that he would lay before his Majesty the desire of the House that his Majesty would order 5,000l. to be given to the petitioner for the many services performed by him to the public. The petitioner had been for thirteen years successively employed in making a “survey and estimate” of the most considerable rivers of Ireland, in order to a navigable communication from the midland country to the principal sea ports, and from one port to another throughout the kingdom.
Minuted:—“Warrt sign'd 12th Feb. 1721–2. 2 pages.
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| 13 Feb. |
20. John Plumptre (Board of Ordnance) to the Lords of the Treasury. Asking for a reconsideration of the Memorial of the Board of Ordnance, in which they had applied for 65,359l. 18s. 10d., and for an issue to be made to them out of the supplies granted for the year 1722. 13 Feb. 1721–2. 1½ pages.
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| 16 Feb. |
21. Memorial of the Royal Academy of Music to the Lords of the Treasury. The King having ordered 1,000l. per ann. for seven years, to be paid out of the Bounty Office, to the Royal Academy, they pray for a warrant for payment of 500l. Opera House in the Hay Market. 16 Feb. 1721–22. 1 page.
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| 16 Feb. |
22. Representation of Walter Stubbs on behalf of Sir Jonathan Cope, Bart., to the Lords of the Treasury. Petitioner is entitled to a perpetual rent of 274l. per ann., payable to him for the Custom House, London. Finds the same is charged with the tax of 3s. in the pound under the Land Tax Act, and with 6d. in the pound under the late Act. Is advised that he ought not to be so charged under the terms (there given) of the deeds relating to the property in question. 16 Feb. 1721.
Minuted:—“26th June 1722. The 6d p[er] lb. to be stoppd, but to be repayd and placed to the head of incidts.” 1 page.
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| 25 Feb. |
23. Memorial of Ch. Wither, Esq., Surveyor of H.M. Woods, &c., to the Lords of the Treasury. Finds he must repeat what he had already stated, viz., the forest [of Dean] contains 23,600 acres of land; that 11,000 acres of the best woodland of the forest were enclosed pursuant to Stat. 20 Charles II. These enclosures were to remain in severalty in the possession of the Crown for ever, and to be reputed a nursery for wood and timber only, for the future benefit of the kingdom. For several years after the enclosures were made, great care was taken in preserving them, insomuch that they produced a considerable annual revenue, “but of late years they have been all slighted and thrown common,” and when any part has been felled it has not been fenced and secured from cattle, so that the spring thereof has been cropped and spoiled. The soil of the forest of Dean is naturally so kind for wood and timber that the enclosures might easily be restored to a flourishing condition by being cut in orderly and reasonable proportions, and kept carefully fenced from the injuries of cattle: proposes an annual warrant for cutting and fencing. “Hall, Feb. 25th, 1721–2.” 2½pages.
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| 26 Feb. |
24. Report of the [Auditor of Plantations] to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of George Newport, of London, merchant, in behalf of Joshua Byrch and other merchants at Barbadoes, late owners of the ship “Conrade,” of Barbadoes. which was taken by pirates, and, together with the cargo, by them given to Capt. Thomas Hill, who delivered the same up at Barbadoes as piratical effects. The petitioner prayed that the produce of that portion which was sold might be given up. Finds that the ship and cargo cost 6,500l. (Barbadoes money). Specifies the owners. There were on board “160 negroes, besides many other goods.” Gives other particulars. The petitioners are justly entitled to receive the produce of the ship. London, 26 Feb. 1721.
Also the petition. 5 pages.
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[? About
3 March.] |
25. Memorial of the Comrs and Trustees appointed for Forfeited Estates in England and elsewhere, except Scotland, to the Lords of the Treasury. Besides a considerable part of the 200,737l. 14s. 9¼d., applied by their Lps directions, a great part of the expense of executing the trusts reposed in the Comrs for Scotland, has been borne out of the produce of the Estates in England. There remains due to memorialists from the York Buildings Company 31,526l. 14s. 8¾d. for principal and interest, part of the purchase money for the late Lord Widdrington's estate in Northumberland, which is not yet paid into the Exchequer: pray that the 23,000l. issued to the Comrs in Scotland may be replaced out of the forfeited estates in Scotland; and that directions may be given for the money due from the York Buildings Company to be forthwith paid into the Exchequer.
Minuted:—“3d March 1721–2. Send a copie of this memll to the York Builds Company. Write to the Comrs for Scotl. to send my Lords an account of what money arisen from sale of forfeited estates, receipts of rents, fines, &c. in England, has been issued to them or their inferior officers for sala[ries] or incidts; and that they send my Lords an exact state of what money is to be expected from the estates remaining unsold in Scotl. either arrears of rents or purchase money unpaid.”
L~re signed 6th Mar. 1721. 2 pages.
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| 4 Mar. |
26. Order in Council on a representation from the principal officers of H.M. Ordnance relating to the changing the time prefixed by the instructions for the Treasurer of the Ordnance to make up his accounts, the same having been found to be inconvenient: referring the matter to the Lords of the Treasury for their opinion. 4 Mar. 1721.
Minuted:—“12th March 1721–2. Prepare a draught of a rept to the King in Council upon this reference agreeing to it.
30th March 1722. Rept read, approved of and sign'd.”
[The report is not now with the above, but the representation and instructions above referred to are enclosed.] 5 pages.
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[? About 5
March.] |
27. Memorial of the Lords and other Commissioners for the affairs of Chelsea Hospital, to the Lords of the Treasury. Mr Alexander Inglis, surgeon to the Hospital, had represented to them that Dr Thomas Rentone had found out a means for curing ruptures, hitherto unknown, and ruptures are very common among pensioners, especially the cavalry. The Comrs think it much for the advantage of the pensioners to encourage the doctor, but no additional salary can be made without his Majesty's or their Lordships' consent. The Comrs desire their Lps' warrant for such an increase of salary to the doctor as they think fit.
Minuted:—“5th March 1721–2. Prepare a warrt with the allowance of 50li p[er] ann. out of the money voted for Chelsea Hospital.” 1 page.
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| 6 March. |
28. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. John Mitchell having apprehended Charles M'Caw, one of those principally concerned in the riot in Play House Passage, Drury Lane, in December last, their Lordships are to order that he be paid the reward of 50l. as advertised in the Gazette of the 6th of last month. 6 March 1721–2.
Minuted:—“12th March 1721–2. Order'd.”
A certificate and the Gazette relating thereto. 4 pages.
|
[? About 10
March.] |
29. A memorial detailing the services rendered by Edward Harley, Esq., Auditor of H.M. Imprests, to the Lords of the Treasury, including the examination of the account of Col. Clement Neville, as paymaster of the prisoners in British pay, which were taken at the action of Brihuega in Spain. The account consisted of payments to officers and privates of the British troops, and the Imperial, Spanish, Portuguese, and Palatine troops in British pay that were prisoners: prays for consideration of his services. The employment was to the 10th of March 1721–22.
Representation of the nature of the services performed by the Auditor in preparing accounts, making searches for papers and copies of vouchers for the Comrs of the debts of the army from the year 1715, viz., for six years and a half.
Also a schedule of the salary of clerks and other disbursements about the same business. 8½ pages.
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| 10 March. |
30. Lord Lieut. of Ireland (Grafton) to the Lords of the Treasury. The fees of the licences for exporting wool from Ireland to Great Britain having fallen short of the annual income of 4,000l., whereby his revenue as Lieutenant and Governor General was much impaired, prays that he may have a warrant for 1,429l. 10s. (the amount of the deficiency) out of the revenue of Ireland, as had been allowed to preceding Lords Lieutenant. Bond Street, 10 March 1721–2. 1½ pages.
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[About 12
March.] |
31. Memorial of the Rt Hon. John, Lord Ballenden, Baron of Broughton [? to the King]. Memorialist is possessed of the post of Usher of the Exchequer in Scotland, which before the Union was a post of honour and considerable profit, insomuch that his Deputy Usher has now settled on him 200l. per ann. on the establishment in Scotland: prays that his losses may be compensated by the establishment of such a heritable salary upon his office of Usher of the Exchequer, as his Majesty shall think fitting.
Referred to the Lords of the Treasury, 12 March 1721–2. 1¼ pages.
|
[? About 12
March.] |
32. Report of Thomas Jett, Esq., auditor, to the Lords of the Treasury, on the case of Elizabeth Smart and other almswomen in his Majesty's almshouses in Lady Alley in St. Margaret's, Westminster; setting forth that their houses were ready to fall for want of repair. Finds they are most hazardous for any one to dwell in, and to pull them down and rebuild them will cost 139l. 11s. 7d., which might be defrayed by the Receiver General of the land revenue for the county of Middlesex.
At the foot is a warrant for the pulling down and rebuilding of the same.
Also the “case” and an estimate.
Minuted:—“12th March 1721–2. Agree to, taking care the charge do not exceed the estimate.” 3 pages.
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| 13 March. |
33. Report of the same, to the same, on the memorial of the Right Hon. George, Lord Newburgh, praying their Lps' warrant for a new patent of the offices of steward and keeper of the Courts Leet and View of Frank Pledge, within the manor and lordship of Sheen alias Richmond, in the county of Surrey. If it were granted, it should be under covenant to account before the auditor in some reasonable time, for the whole time that he hath been steward thereof, and once a year for the time to come, &c. Mar. 13th 1721.
Minuted:—“16th March 1721–2. My Lords will consider further of this.”
Again:—“13 7br. 1722. My Lords agree to this report. The acco[unt] for the time past to be rendred in one year's time or the patent to be void. See how the last patent of ye stewardship past.”
The memorial referred to. 2 pages.
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| 14 Mar. |
34. Report of Sir Isaac Newton to the Lords of the Treasury, on the bill of Mr James Girard for engraving seals. Certifies that the work is good and the prices reasonable, and that the seals are of the weight expressed in the bill. Mint Office, 14 March 1721.
Minuted:—“25th June 22. Agreed to.”
The bill and a petition of James Girard.
The bill describes the several seals and their inscriptions. 4½ pages.
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[? About
24 March.] |
35. Petition of Lieut. Edward Scattergood, of the Hon. Col. John Cholmley's regiment of foot, to the King. Petitioner commanded a detachment of forces sent to Cromarty to cause quarantine to be performed by ships coming from infected places abroad. A ship came into the Road of Cromarty from the Bay of Biscay with wine and brandy, a considerable portion of the cargo was unladen, and an officer of customs seized part of the same in plain contradiction of the proclamation, and suffered the men to escape to the danger of the plague being brought in. By the sheriff's direction petitioner seized the ship and the goods as a legal forfeiture. The Custom House officers notwithstanding lay claim to the seizure: asks for directions in relation thereto.
Referred to the Lords of the Treasury on 24 Mar. 1721. 1 page.
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[? About
29 March.] |
36. Petition of Richard Osgood, statuary to the Lords of the Treasury. Was employed by the Office of Works to model and cast in hard mettle, two large sea horses, and two large tritons, to spout the water in the great bason or fountain in Bushey Park, at Hampton Court, the bills for which were entered and passed for 180l. The figures were set up and finished eight or nine months after the King's Accession to play the water against the King's coming to Hampton Court, but the bills remain unpaid to this day.
Minuted:—“29th March 1722. To be paid 180li.” 1 page.
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| 4 April. |
37. The Governor of St Christopher's (Jo. Hart) to Horatio Walpole Esq. Being obliged to remain at Antigua until he had executed the King's commands. has not sooner answered the Instructions of the Lords of the Treasury; but has lost no time in gaining the best information on them, which he has communicated in an enclosure. Will only add to what he has said in relation to his encouraging and countenancing the Receiver of the Casual Revenue and the Deputy Auditor. As these officers are not personally known to him (Mr Walpole), it may not be improper that he should be better acquainted with their characters. Col. Crooke, receiver of the casual revenue, is a very honest man, of good substance, in great esteem in these parts, is Speaker of the Assembly of St Christopher's, in which station he has done the writer good service, and will answer the trust reposed in him. Mr Jones, the Deputy Auditor, is an old but active man, of very litigious and peevish disposition, busy in his nature, therefore equal to the employment he has. He (the Governor) will make proper use of his talents to do justice to, and promote the revenue. There are very large demands made on the estates of his predecessors, Codrington, Parkes, Douglass, and Hamilton, which could not be recovered but in the Court of Exchequer: but must say, however their estates may suffer, the casual revenue was formerly esteemed as a perquisite of this Government, and if it were not for the provision that has been made for him (the Governor), the Government would not be worth 200l. more than the salary paid out of the 4½ per cent. Has mentioned the trade with the Dutch at Eustatia, as a great cause of the decrease of the duty of 4½ per cent., but besides this, these Islands have been almost reduced to famine for want of rain for these four years; since his arrival, however, they have had seasonable weather so they may expect that account to amount to as much as it has done in three years past, provided there be ships sufficient to carry the sugars to Great Britain. There is a most pernicious and unlawful trade carried on between these Islands and the French Islands, which could not [otherwise] be supplied with provisions, materials for shipbuilding, horses, and sugar works. By our indiscretion the French are grown so formidable, “that in case of a war, it will be no vast difficulty to destroy these Colonies.” Our purchasing sugars from the French increases our duties, employs our ships, and has other advantages; but submits whether a present conveniency shall outweigh the strong probability of a future ruin. This trade could not be carried on without the connivance of the Custom House officers, who are reputed to be deeply concerned in it themselves. Has produced his Majesty's instructions to them prohibiting that trade, and has told them in plain terms what they may expect from him, if they persist or permit it in others. Suggests a reprimand from the Treasury or Comrs of Customs. Must do Mr Man the justice to say he is very exact in his duty, and he (the Governor) has not heard that he is concerned in trade, but is in the esteem of all men. Has given their Lps general information of the French lands, but in addition finds his predecessors, especially Messrs. Douglass and Hamilton, have given themselves grants of very large tracts of land, and have also made a very partial distribution to such as were their favourites, or to those that gave them most for such grants, without making any provision for the poor inhabitants that were before settled upon the lands. By these means many of them have left this island, and others, since his coming, have made such crying complaints of their oppressions by the possessors of these great tracts, as not only moves his compassion, but gives him an alarm that in case of a war with the French, this dis-peopled Colony would become an easy prey to our formidable neighbours of that nation in the Islands of Martinique and Guadaloupe. It is high time that these lands were disposed of, for the present possessors have paid no acknowledgment to the Crown for them, and think it very hard that they should not be indulged as tenants at will for ever, though they have already grown very wealthy by the cultivation of those lands. Many of the present possessors think they have a just claim to his Majesty's bounty for grants for their services, tho' in his sentiments they are amply rewarded by so long free enjoyment of their grants. The list enclosed of the present possessors, showing the number of acres held of the French lands, was taken by a surveyor appointed by Mr Hamilton, but he (the Governor) has good reason to think it is not a just return, and that a re-survey is wanting to do the public justice. Holds to his former opinion that the French lands should be leased out for a certain term of years, rather than disposed of in fee for ready money: for there are very few purchasers that can make an immediate payment in specie, and the custom of this country is to sell lands for five years' purchase. The reason of so low a purchase is that the expense of settling a plantation is four times more than the real value of the land: the charge of building is excessively high, both of dwelling houses and sugar works. The number of negroes is great which they are obliged to keep upon these lands to make sugar, which is the staple commodity of this Island. Is waiting a few days longer to inform himself further of the condition of these lands, and then intends to publish the Instructions given him by the Lords of the Treasury, and shall give orders to all persons possessed of any of these lands to produce their grants, and so will get a further light into the real value of those lands, in order to form a scheme, either for their speedy disposal by sale or lease, for the benefit of the Crown, that it may no longer lose 8,000l. or 10,000l. sterling per ann. All the advantage he proposes to himself for his services is the grant of 200 acres (as mentioned in his memorial). It is the utmost number that ought to be granted to any one person, if the preservation of this colony in time of war from an enemy be duly considered. Gives reasons for complying with the grant. Does not propose to touch one shilling of the profit accruing from these lands; for by his scheme the money is to be transmitted to the Treasury. Besides the instructions received from the Lords of the Treasury, in relation to Mr Hamilton, has observed his (Mr Walpole's) verbal instructions. Had almost forgotten to let him know that a French war would scarce be more terrible to the inhabitants of this Island, than that any merchant should have the purchasing of these lands in gross, in Great Britain. Is truly of opinion that in a little time it would dispeople the Island, “for the inhabitants must then expect to sit at a rack rent, and be made mere merchandise of.” St Christopher's, 4 April 1722.
The following is an abstract of the enclosure above referred to:—
The Governor of St Christopher's (Jo. Hart) to the Lords of the Treasury. On his arrival sent for Clement Crooke, Esq., Receiver of H.M. rents, revenues, &c. in the Leeward Islands, and communicated their Lps orders. Found there were several matters which the Receiver was at a loss to prosecute, and for which there was no remedy but by erecting a Court of Exchequer, which he has done at Antigua. A Court of Exchequer has been long disused in these Islands, but as he has appointed persons of the most liberal education and best fortunes in these parts to preside in it, hopes the revenue will be much increased and many evil practices brought to light. The revenue of 4½ per cent. falls short of what might be expected from the trade of the Leeward Islands. One of the causes of the decrease is the pernicious trade carried on with the Dutch settlement at the Island of Eustatia, within two leagues of St Christopher's. It is a small barren Island belonging to the Dutch West India Company, producing nothing of itself that is merchantable, though from thence that company carries on a vast commerce to the British Islands, by importing there great quantities of East India and other wares, and by sending eight or ten ships of burthen freighted with slaves from Africa, which are disposed of at a rate under what the English can afford them, they having returns not only of the current coin of these Islands, but also their ships are freighted home with sugars and other produce. By this means his Majesty loses much of the duty of 4½ per cent. and the duty of 3s. 6d. per hundred paid in England for customs there. This is not only a prejudice to our navigation, a great detriment to the Royal African Company and other lawful traders; but also by the avarice and want of judgment in the planters and others, the Hollanders become more and more our rivals in the sugar trade, though of the growth and produce of our own plantations. Will apply all remedies to suppress that unlawful trade. Communicated their Lps orders relating to the demands of the Crown on Walter Hamilton, Esq., late Governor of the Leeward Islands, and required him to render a true and ample account of the casual revenue arising in these Islands, and a state of the money received by him during his government, and to cause the balances to be paid into the Receiver's hands. Mr Hamilton answered that he would always obey their Lordships' commands, and would immediately account, and this he is doing. Will transmit the account before Mr Hamilton leaves, which will be in a month. Arrived on the 26th of March at St Christopher's, and has made enquiry into the condition of the French lands surrendered to his Majesty by the treaty of Utrecht, and finds them of considerable value; but no benefit has been made of them as yet to the Crown or the public, and a very unequal and partial distribution has hitherto been made of those lands, which has in no wise corresponded with the intentions of his Majesty for the better peopling of this Island, these lands having been granted gratis for that purpose; whereas the present possessors have had no other view but to make the most of the soil, without adding any considerable improvements on the plantations so granted. On the contrary, they have cut down the fine trees planted in all the roads by the French, which were the produce of four score years. The soil of the French lands is the finest in the West Indies, and produces great quantities of sugar with very little labour and without manuring, and is now most of it under canes; but if the present possessors are permitted to work the land out of heart, it will much impair the value thereof in a few years.
The number of the French acres in the two divisions called Basseterre and Capisterre amounts to 11,161, exclusive of those that are patented under the great seal of Great Britain, as will be seen by the list sent, &c.
There is also one continued tract of mountainous land commonly called the Salt Ponds, as yet unsurveyed, but supposed to contain about 2,000 acres. This land is also given in patents for pasturage, without any benefit or advantage to the Crown; though formerly this tract (when in possession of the French) supported 200 families, who subsisted by making cotton and indigo, and by raising cattle and sheep, which were sold in this and the adjacent islands. Estimates the yield of the 11,161 acres to the revenue at from 8,000l. to 10,000l. per ann. Intends to remain on the Island until he can procure a more certain account of the real value of these lands, &c., and asks their Lordships to prevent the grant of them until they shall know their true value; for many of the possessors, who are grown wealthy out of the produce of these lands, are mightily alarmed at his enquiry into the value of them. St Christopher's, 4 April 1722.
Minuted:—“17th Augt 1722. My Lords will humbly advise the King not to make any grants of land in this Island till their Lord[shi]ps are more fully informed, by exact surveys and other informations, of the full value thereof.” 14 pages.
|
[? About
6 April.] |
38. Petition of Frances Wyndham to the King. King Charles II. in consideration of the good services performed by Sir Francis Wyndham, Bart. (petitioner's father), in being instrumental to his Majesty's preservation after the battle of Worcester, granted him and his heirs male an annuity or pension of 600l. per ann. and an annuity of 400l. per ann. to Ann Wyndham, his wife. At the request of the latter his Majesty, in the 34th year of his reign, accepted a surrender of his letters patent, and granted in lieu thereof, to Rachel and Frances Wyndham (the petitioner), her daughters, an annuity or pension of 200l. per ann. each for life. These pensions were in arrear, in 1714, 2,550l., besides 675l. more due to the said Rachel (to whom petitioner is executrix) for wages as bedchamber woman to Queen Mary, Consort of King William. Prays an order for payment of the arrears.
Minuted:—“6th April 1722. There is no money provided by parliamt for the debts of K. William, and for the claim upon her late Matie, she will be consider'd in proportion with the rest of Her Maties' creditors.”
A similar petition to the Lords of the Treasury. 2 pages.
|
| 9 April. |
39. Certificate of Francis Neale, Deputy Clerk of the Pipe, to the Lords of the Treasury as to claims of the Crown to rent from the Corporation of Dunwich, in the county of Suffolk. Observes that the ancient rent of 65l. per ann. being reduced by letters patent of King Charles II. only during pleasure, determined on his death, and that 60l. per ann. was due to the Crown from that time to the death of Catherine, late Queen dowager, and from her death the whole rent of 65l. became due to the Crown. The Queen died in December 1705. Pipe Office, 9 April 1722. 1 page.
|
| 11 April. |
40. “A particular of the causes now under prosecution, with states thereof,” returned by the Treasury Solicitor, “A. Cracherode.” 11 April 1722.
Minuted:—“13 April 1722. Read.” In the margin there are brief directions in most cases as to what was to be done. 10 pages.
|
[? About
12 April.] |
41. Petition of John Sydenham, Agent for his Majesty to inspect into the wreck fishing, by virtue of a grant to Jacob Rowe, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury. Went on board the “Audery,” merchantman bound to the Isle of Mayo. Paid to the Privy Purse 1,840l. as his Majesty's part of the treasure. Afterwards went into Sussex and subsequently to the Lizard Point to inspect the fishing for treasure: prays for an allowance.
Minuted:—“12th April 1722. To apply for an allowce for these 2 voyages upon the next successfull expedition.” 1 page.
|
| 12 April. |
42. Thomas Woolley, Secretary to the East India Company, apologizing for the non-attendance of the Directors in answer to a summons from the Lords of the Treasury to attend them on the previous Tuesday. The votes for the new election were not brought in till the 4th inst., and it was not till yesterday that a Chairman or Deputy Chairman was appointed. In the absence of the Court or Chairman, no letters to the Court are to be opened. Pray that their Lps will appoint a day for their attendance. East India House, 12 April 1722.
Minuted:—“12th April 1722. The directors or a Committee of them to attend on Thursday next at 12.” 1 page.
|
| 14 April. |
43. Lord Carteret to the Lords of the Treasury. Certain arrears of the royal patrimony in the Island of Minorca were claimed by the Emperor, when the Island was yielded up to the Crown, as well as since. Don Domingo Roca, a Spaniard, demanded these arrears by the Emperor's authority. The King in 1716 allowed Roca to receive the part thereof in the Receiver's hands. He now demanded the remainder. Their Lps were to enquire into the case and report. Sends copy of the letter received by him from Col. Kane, Lieut.-Governor of Minorca, on this subject, and an extract of the late Lord Stanhope's letter to Col. Kane. Whitehall, 14 April 1722.
Minuted:—“16th April 1722. Send copies of these l~res to Mr Gascoign, who is to inform my Lords if any of these arrears are collected and paid and whether in his hands.” 6 pages.
|
| 15 April. |
44. Report of Mr Christopher Tilson to the Lords of the Treasury “on the proportions to be allowed to the South Sea Company for additional charges of management in respect to the increase of their capital by virtue of the Act 6o Georgii.” 15 April 1722.
Accompanied by two accounts. 5 pages.
|
| 16 April. |
45. Order in Council on a report from the Lords of the Committee of the Privy Council, which was made upon a memorial from the Comrs for executing the office of Lord High Admiral. The memorial related to a petition of the seamen who served some years before, in the Mediterranean, under Viscount Torrington, praying to receive their proportions of prizes taken from the Spaniards. The report recommended that they should receive the value of the ships, which were by treaty to be restored to the Spaniards, and the Order in Council directs the Lords of the Treasury to issue the value of the ships, &c. 16 April 1722.
Minuted:—“Warrt signd 18th Ap. 1722.
Also a schedule of the value of the ships, &c. 4 pages.
|
| 18 April. |
46. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury on a memorial of Richard Rigby, Esq., wherein he set forth that there was a debt of 2,800l. due from the estate of Sir Alexander Rigby to Captain Edward Rigby (who had for many years been outlawed). The amount was the penalty of a bond. Represents that Capt. Charles Gibson attended their Lordships and declared that Capt. Rigby, who was outlawed, owed him a sum of money, and that a part of his personal estate (which by his outlawry was vested in the Crown) he was willing to discover, if their Lps would allow him a proportionable reward. Subsequently Mr. Lowndes agreed with Gibson, that the latter should have ⅓ of the money recovered by his discovery. Captain Gibson attended him and discovered to him that Sir Alexander Rigby was indebted to Capt. Rigby 1,400l. principal money by bond. The estate of the said Alexander was vested in trustees to pay his debts. Caused a caveat to be entered with the trustees giving them notice of the Crown's title, &c. The Attorney General directed an English bill or information to be exhibited in the Exchequer against Richard Rigby, to compel him to deliver up the bond, and against the trustees to compel them to pay the debt. Prays directions whether he shall apply to Richard Rigby for the further discovery, or rest upon the prior discovery made by Charles Gibson. 18 April 1722.
The memorial referred to and another memorial from him minuted:—“12th June 1722. The memorialist to attend his Mats Attor. Genll to give him full information of this matter & that he prosecute the same at his own expence, when my Lords will move his Maty to allow him one half of what shall be recover'd to the Crown by his means free of charges.” 4¼ pages.
|
| 19 April. |
47. Lord Carteret to the Lords of the Treasury. It having been represented to his Majesty that the laws of Jamaica will expire in the year 1724, and the Duke of Portland desiring to be instructed upon that head, before his departure for the Island, the consideration thereof has been referred to the Lords for Trade and Plantations. Their representation and instructions are enclosed and are hereafter described. As the revenue act ought to be settled upon some more certain foot than it seems to be at present, His Majesty thinks that part of the instruction very fit for the consideration of the Lords of the Treasury. The Duke of Portland is empowered by the Instruction, as it now stands, to signify His Majesty's consent to the renewing of the laws of the Island, either making them perpetual or for 21 years, according as the revenue act shall be made perpetual or for that term. The principal condition is, that a revenue be provided, equal to the present; but as it does not appear what the present expenses and contingent charges are, these must be particularly specified. The necessity of affairs in Jamaica requires that the Duke should forthwith repair thither, and in case the state of the revenue there cannot be duly considered by their Lps before his departure, it is his Majesty's instruction that for the present his Grace should only propose this matter to the Council and Assembly, by acquainting them that his Majesty is willing to renew the laws of the Island some time before their expiration; provided they are ready to make a due provision for the expenses of his Majesty's government there, and that his Grace should transmit an account to his Majesty how he finds the Council and Assembly disposed thereupon. Whitehall, 19 April 1722.
Copy of the representation referred to, of the Board of Trade, on the memorial of the Duke of Portland. The laws would expire in the year 1724, and the Duke of Portland asked for the King's Instructions for renewing the same. The laws would have expired in 1703, but her then Majesty gave instructions to the Governor to acquaint the Assembly that, in case they agreed to a new revenue act with a provision for the support of the Government there, she would continue the laws for 21 years more, &c. A new revenue act was thereupon prepared for the term of 21 years, which would expire in 1724; and by the same, the laws of Jamaica were further confirmed during the continuance of that act. Think it desirable to procure a new act of the Assembly. The renewal of the laws is a grace which the people of Jamaica cannot reasonably expect without a suitable return. The Attorney and Solicitor General apprehend that His Majesty's revenue will likewise expire at the same time with the laws; whereas, before the last confirmation, the revenue of the Crown would have subsisted by virtue of one or both of the acts passed in 1683 and 1688, although the laws of Jamaica had expired at the time prefixed for their continuance by King Charles the 2d. Persuaded themselves that the people of Jamaica would be induced, on a renewal thereof, to grant a settled perpetual revenue equal to the present expenses, or at least for a term of 21 years. Advise that the Duke of Portland should be instructed to acquaint the Council and Assembly that his Majesty will continue their laws for a further term upon the above conditions. Whitehall, 28 March 1722.
Also “additional Instruction” to the Duke of Portland in accordance with the above recommendation. 11 pages and 2 lines.
|
| 20 April. |
48. Memorial of the Directors of the London Assurance Company to the Lords of the Treasury. Assigned annuity orders and tallies for 38,750l. paid in on the Plate Fund, for so much remaining due from the Corporation for their Charter. Have since paid into the Exchequer 30,000l. in money, as part of the 38,750l. Their Lps in November last ordered an allowance of 1,250l. to be made them, for payments in money, in lieu of plate tallies. Are ready to pay the remaining 7,500l. and pray their Lps to accept the 1,250l. in part payment.
Minuted:—“Aprill ye 23d 1722. The London Assurance Company to pay into ye Exchequer ye remaining 8750 and to take a Tally in discharge of their whole Debt, and ye Lords will direct a warrant for ye 1250 to be payd them pursuant to ye agreement for that purpose.”
A duplicate of the above memorial, with the date 20 April 1722 at the foot. 2 pages.
|
[? About
23 April.] |
49. Memorial of the Six Clerks of the Court of Chancery to the Lords of the Treasury. On the 4th of Feb. 1718 the two senior Six Clerks were ordered, by the Lords Committee, to whom the matter was referred by the House of Peers, to view the Records of the Court of Chancery, &c., to attend their Lordships, and to give an account of the condition of the Records of that Court, and what conveniency there was at their office for keeping them for the future. It appeared to their Lps, upon examination of the said six clerks, that there were vast quantities of bills, answers, depositions of witnesses and other pleadings from the reign of Charles I., to which it was very difficult to have recourse, being for want of room crowded into very inconvenient places. They had not then received any damage, but lay very much exposed thereto. About six years before that time they were carefully bundled up and put into a regular and proper method and condition to be transmitted to the Tower of London, but the Record rooms there, were not capable of receiving any of them, being already full. Their Lps, being informed of the great difficulties and delays which had for several years obstructed the obtaining of a new room for the reception of these Records, repaired to the Tower of London, and were of opinion that a large room on the east side of the White Tower, adjoining to Cæsar's Chapel, should be allotted for that purpose, and ordered a plan and estimate, which amounted to 350l. On 17 April 1719, the report of the Lords Committees being approved of by the House of Peers, an address was presented to his Majesty, desiring that he would give directions thereon. His Majesty replied that he would give proper directions thereupon. As the Records will unavoidably receive damage from their present position, besides the difficulty and almost impossibility of having due recourse to them, and as they daily very much increase, memorialists apply to their Lps to lay the affair before his Majesty to obtain his directions for the issue of the money necessary for the work.
Minuted:—“23 April 1722. See the Rept from ye Board of Works concerning all the rooms for records. Ordnance writ to.” 1 large page.
|
| 24 April. |
50. “Report of Joseph Gascoigne Esq. Recr Genl of the Island of Minorca on a demand made by Domingo Roca, of arrears due to his Impl Maty as King of Spain.” Spring Garden, 24 April 1722.
Encloses an “Account of moneys due to his Imperial Majesty wch was to be collected by Dn Jos. de Vigo after the English collours were mounted,” and a receipt. (Both are copies.) 4 pages.
|
| 25 April. |
51. Certificate of Richard Hays and Humphrey Fowle, Esqres, two of H.M. Justices of the Peace for Sussex, to the Lords of the Treasury, that they had arrested Gibb Jarvis alias Tompkin, who was concerned in rescuing Jacob Walter, a notorious smuggler and owler; and that Thomas Jarrett the elder and Thomas Jarrett the younger, both of Rotherfield, and Thomas Marchant, a constable, arrested the said Gibb Jarvis. A reward of 40l. was offered in the Gazette on conviction to each person who was concerned in the arrest. The justices hope the reward will be paid. 25 April 1722.
Minuted:—“6th Decr 1723. To Commrs cust. to pay these sums & to place them to the head of incidts.” Again:—“A wart was signed for this, 23 August last, and is gone to the custos.” 1 page.
|
| 28 April. |
52. John King and two other Bristol merchants to William Lowndes, Esq. The good order they obtained of their Lps of the Treasury, in January last, they hoped would, in some measure, have prevented the clandestine trade carried on by the Glasgow men, in reference to the tobacco trade; but, to their great surprise, and the utter ruin of the trade, they find that more has been “put hither” since Michaelmas last than in any one year; and it is sold at such low rates that they can carry on that trade no longer, without ruining themselves. Enclose an account, to be laid before the Lords of the Treasury, of what has been imported from Glasgow since the last account. Have been informed that the order obtained in January has not been put in execution. Bristol, 28 April 1722.
The account referred to. 2 pages.
|
| 5 May. |
53. Report of R. Powys to the Lords of the Treasury on the prices set down by John Baskett, his Majesty's printer. The charges were for “Fast prayer,” inventories of the estates of the late Directors of the South Sea Company, and Plantation laws. 5 May 1722.
Minuted:—“18th May 1722. To be paid p[er] Tallys of Pro.” 1 page.
|
| 5 May. |
54. Order in Council on the report from Sir Nathaniel Lloyd, H.M. Advocate General, on the petition of Luke Knott, late master of the ship “West River Merchant,” which was taken by pirates in her passage to Virginia in January 1719, and plundered of a considerable value, and after a detention of two days was set at liberty, upon a constrained promise the master made to them, to land eight of their crew at Virginia, and to serve them upon his arrival there as much as lay in his power; they having desired to be discharged from their gang, and having put themselves voluntarily on board his ship. When petitioner arrived in Virginia, he informed the Governor as to the pirates he had brought, who were thereupon tried and convicted, and six of them executed, and petitioner delivered up to the Governor all their effects. These amounted to about 800l. Petitioner will be obliged to quit the merchants service, as the pirates threaten to torture him to death if he falls into their hands. Prayed for the reward promised for their apprehension, although not strictly entitled to it, the pirates having voluntarily put themselves on board. Ordered that the petitioner be allowed the reward, but the order is not to be made a precedent. 5 May 1722.
List of the pirates' names and sums for their apprehension.
Minuted:—“19th June 1722. Respited till the powers relating to the disposal of piratical goods are known and adjusted. Again:— 19th July 1722. Prepare a warrt to the Govr, Recr and all others who have the effects of these men in their hands, to pay to Luke Knott the sum of 230l., being after the rate of the reward promised by proclamation; but as this case is different (as p[er] this order in Council) the said 230li is to be esteemed and accepted as bounty.”
Warrt signd 8th Augt 1722. 3½ pages.
|
| 8 May. |
55. Commrs for forfeiture, to the Lords of the Treasury. There have been 1,728 claims entered before them on the estates of the forfeiting persons in England and elsewhere (except Scotland), exclusive of the claims made by the sufferers at Preston. These have all been heard and determined. Have also examined into the truth of the claims entered before them, for losses sustained in the borough and parish of Preston, amounting to 226, and in value to 6,481l. 10s. 10¾d. It appears to them that there is due to the claimants, the sufferers at Preston, 4,680l. 7s. 6d. Send an account of the money due for principal and interest from the York Buildings Company on 25 April last, amounting to 32,217l. 5s. 1¼d. There also remains due from Croft Corles, the remainder of the purchase money due for the estate late of John Leyburne, 425l.; and from Robert Stoddart for the remainder of the purchase money due from some lead mines, late the estate of Thomas Foster, 5,360l.; making in the whole 38,102l. 5s. 1¼d.; being the whole of the purchase money due from the several purchasers. Essex House, 8 May 1722. 2 pages.
|
| 9 May. |
56. The information and complaint of Robert Armstrong, Esq., Deputy Surveyor of H.M. Woods in America to William Pepperell, Esq., one of H.M. Justices of the Peace for the county of York [America], and several other documents, relating to cutting of woods contrary to the Act of 1710 in the colonies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Province of Maine, &c. The information charges Benjamin Libby and William Lord, both of Barwick, in the co. of York, in the province of Maine, yeomen, with cutting 43 pine trees of 24 inches diameter and above, for masts and bowsprits. They were tried and acquitted, but it did not appear that the trees mentioned were the same as those named in the complaint. The information prays that Libby and Lord may appear before the justices of the peace, to answer in the premises, and that witnesses named may be summoned thereon. The last dated of the documents is 9 May 1722. 8¼ pages.
|
| 10 May. |
57. Report of the Comrs of Trade to the Lords of the Treasury on the waste in his Majesty's woods on the continent of America. It is apprehended that the Act of last session, giving further encouragement for the importation of naval stores, &c., duty free, will, unless prevented, induce the inhabitants in several provinces to cut down and convert into lumber such of H.M. woods as may be fit for the Royal Navy. Remind their Lps of the necessity of sending a proper person as Surveyor General of Woods in America (the present Surveyor residing in England) and the Deputy is a Custom House Officer residing in New Hampshire, whose duty cannot admit of his visiting the woods in other parts. Whitehall, 10 May 1722.
Minuted:—“18th May 1722. To be read on Tuesday morn., & Mr. Bridger to attend.”
With it is a petition from John Bridger, late Surveyor of the Woods in America, for restoration to his former employment of Surveyor of Woods. 3 pages.
|
| 11 May. |
58. Report of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury. On the petition of Richard Johnson, who had lent 800l. to Elizabeth Somner, widow, and Henry Somner, Esq., her son, secured by mortgages of a close of pasture called Putlowe Close, in Fleet Marston, in the co. of Bucks, containing 135 acres; and since the lending the money, Elizabeth and Henry Somner had sold the close to Richard Hampden, Esq., who had since conveyed it, or was then conveying it, to some persons in trust to satisfy a debt due to his Majesty. There is 80l. due to the petitioner for two years' interest. Certifies that the conveyance had been made to Hampden, the consideration being 6,360l., and that the mortgage is prior to Mr. Hampden's purchase, and is a legal incumbrance. It ought to be discharged out of moneys raised by sale of the estate, and the interest ought to be paid out of the rents, &c. 11 May 1722.
Minuted:—“14th June 1722. Approved and directions are to be given accordingly.” Again:—“24 July 1723. Mr Hampden will order the tenant to pay the interest already become due.”
The petition. 3 pages.
|
| 16 May. |
59. James Payzant to the Rt Hon. Robert Walpole, Esq. In relation to a bill of 1,046l. 10s. 3d. drawn upon him by Mons. St Saphorin, and payable to the Lord Forbes. 16 May 1722.
Minuted:—“16th May. 1,046l 10s 3d with ye fees added to James Payzant to answer a bill of excha drawn by St Saphorin for money expended by him at Vienna for his Mats special service.”
“Warrt signd 19th May 1722.” 1 page.
|
[? About
18 May.] |
60. “Accot of the charges on His Majesty's birth day distributed by his Maties almoner for Scotland for 1721 & 1722.”
Minuted:—“18th May 1722. Prepare a warrt. Wt signd.” 1 page.
|
| 21 May. |
61. Lord Carteret to the Lords of the Treasury. The Dutch, Envoy having represented that the ship “St Peter” of Amsterdam-when stranded on the 14th of Nov. last, near Penzance, was plundered and burnt by the people there, his Lordship, by the King's command, wrote to the Comrs of Customs to direct their officers in those parts to give the best information they could thereon, in order that justice might be done. The Comrs in answer, have acquainted him, that the Collector of Penzance had informed them of the whole state of the matter, and that they (the Comrs) had transmitted to their Lps the several letters, affidavits, &c. relating thereto. Transmits extract of the letter from the Comrs. His Majesty directs the Comrs to give orders thereon, and his Lordship desires them to acquaint him therewith, that he may make a proper answer to the Dutch minister. Whitehall, 21 May 1722.
The extract referred to. 3½ pages.
|
| 21 May. |
62. The same to the same. Transmits for consideration a representation from the Lords of the Admiralty on the necessity of appointing some experienced person to inspect and preserve H.M. woods in New England, and to advise and assist in the further growth and improvement of naval stores in those parts; together with a memorial of Mr Bridger, who was many years surveyor of those woods, and copies of two letters from the Navy Board. 21 May 1722.
The documents referred to are with it (except Mr Bridger's memorial) and one of the letters is in duplicate, and there is a covering letter from Mr Burchett. 13 pages.
|
| 23 May. |
63. “An accompt of the debt due and owing on the pensions payable in the office of Walter Chetwynd, Esq., from Midsummer 1721 to Lady day 1722.” 23 May 1722. 6 pages.
|
| 25 May. |
64. “A. Cracherode's particular of causes now under prosecution, with states thereof.” 25o Maij 1722.
Minuted on the back:—“Read. Directions are set on the sides of each leaf.”
Among the causes for prosecution are: (1) for a seditious libel entitled the Freeholder's Journal; (2) for another seditious libel entitled “A Supplement to the Freeholders' Journal”; (3) A seditious libel entitled “An Historical Account of the advantages that have accrued to England by the predecessors in the illustrious House of Hanover;” (4) for a seditious libel entitled “The Saturday's Post or Weekly Journal,” and (5) a most villainous and traitorous libel entitled “The second part of the Historical Account of the advantages that have accru'd to England by the Succession in the illustrious House of Hanover.” 6½ pages.
|
[? About
26 May.] |
65. Memorial of Captain William Clarke, first Adjutant to his Majesty's third Regiment of Foot Guards, to the Lords of the Treasury. Had expended 250l. in making a house habitable, the same being necessary for him to reside in to take charge of certain companies. His Majesty had lately granted the use thereof for a place of public worship to his subjects of Hanover attending his royal person, and memorialist was commanded to leave. Presumes it is not his Majesty's intention that memorialist should entirely leave the Savoy, and that such a great number of soldiers should be left without control of a commissioned officer; when in all H.M. garrisons in Great Britain there are several houses allotted to officers. Upon a late application to their Lps their pleasure was that he “should pitch upon another convenient habitation” in the Savoy, in the room of that from which he is to remove. Has viewed a house in the Strand next to the Quakers' meeting, which is held by one Mrs Briggins during pleasure; prays that the house may be granted to him, and that it may be made tenantable, or for [another held] by one Miller fronting the Thames; and that the 250l. may be reimbursed to him.
Minuted:—“26th May 1722. 250li to be paid to him by the paymr workes, to reimburse him the like sum laid out in fitting up a lodging in the Savoy, lately delivered up to the Lutheran Minister.” “L~re sign'd.” 1 page (gnawed by vermin). |
| 30 May. |
66. Memorial of Walter Lord Chetwynd, Ranger of St James's Park, to the Lords of the Treasury. Has pressed on the works at St James's Park with all possible despatch, and finds that the 1,200l. issued to the Paymaster of the works is quite expended. Prays for directions to be given for 1,000l. more to be paid to the Paymaster, which he hopes will be sufficient to build the lodges, the Island Keeper's house, and “grainary,” and to dig a reservoir on the upper side of the park, to which pipes may be laid to serve St James's house and Whitehall with water, in case of fire or other necessary uses; and also will be a means of filling up the great gravel-pit lately dug for the service of the park.
Minuted:—“5th June 1722. Orderd.” 1 page.
|
| 30 May. |
67. Memorial of Sir John Vanbrugh, Knt., Surveyor of H.M. gardens and waters. As the great engine lately erected at Windsor is of a power to raise more water than the old pipe that goes up to the Castle will receive without often bursting and straining the engine, it seems absolutely necessary to take up the present pipe and to place one of larger bore in the room of it, by which means the Castle will be plentifully supplied with water for the future. Whitehall, May 30, 1722. 1 page.
|
? [About
31 May.] |
68. Petition of Richard Oglethorp, late Deputy Provost Marshal of the Island of Antigua and Messenger to the Council there, to the Lords of the Treasury. Was ordered by the Government to repair to Great Britain as the most material witness to the barbarous murder of Col. Parke, Governor of the Leeward Carribbee Islands, and waited [in England] three years and eleven months, for which the government ordered him to be paid 5s. a day, notwithstanding which he had received but for two years and odd months, and 100l. for his voyage. Contracted more debts than the money would pay. Petitioner could not return without danger to his life from the parties concerned in the murder. Mr Cracherode had reported on his case, and whilst he (petitioner) was waiting for their Lordships' order thereon he was arrested for debt, and has been confined for 15 months in a starving condition. Prays further payment.
Minuted:—“31 May 1722. My Lords are of opinion nothing is due.” 1 page.
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[Before
June.] |
69. Petition of John Duke of Montagu to the Lords of the Treasury. By petition to his Majesty the duke has set forth that the Islands of St Lucia and St Vincent have not hitherto been settled, and if they were settled, it might be an advantage to Great Britain. This would be expensive, but petitioner was willing to undertake it at his own cost, and prayed for the grant of the Islands to him and his heirs, and to be appointed Governor. The Board of Trade, to whom the matter was referred, reported that these two Islands were at present comprehended in the Commission of the Governor of Barbadoes, but as neither of them have been settled they produce no revenue to the Crown. They thought that it would undoubtedly be for his Majesty's service that they should be settled and planted, and so much the rather because the French had heretofore made several attempts to possess them. Petitioner says, if subjected to the restrictions proposed, it will render the whole undertaking impracticable by the little encouragement people will have to settle in the Islands, and the revenue will be less than without the restrictions. Prays for an absolute grant from his Majesty, the Government being absolutely reserved to his Majesty. The petitioner will be obliged to send over 500 white people at the least, to make a settlement in the Island of St Lucia, within three years, and to settle one-fourth part of the Island within thirteen years, one other fourth in ten years more. Petitioner will be answerable for a quitrent at the rate of 2s. 6d. for every hundred acres of land as leased out. [There are also some other provisions.] And after ten years the grantees shall be obliged to pay to his Majesty the duty of 4½ per cent. as in Barbadoes and the Leeward Charibbee Islands. But inasmuch as the Island of St Vincent is at present possessed by Indians and Negro slaves, who have made their escape thither from the neighbouring Islands, and are armed and very numerous, petitioner hopes to be indulged for a further time for the settling thereof, &c.
[The Duke of Montague obtained a grant of these Islands on June 22, 1722.] 4 pages.
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70. Copy or draft of Minutes of the Treasury Board for 1 June 1722. 1½ pages.
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| 4 June. |
71. Report of Charles Wither, Esq., Surveyor General of H.M. woods, to the Lords of the Treasury on the memorial of Brigadier Munden, Out Ranger of H.M. forest of Windsor “in the Baliwic of Surrey,” praying them to grant to him the same power of felling the three little groves called Fan Grove, Knowl Grove, and Stubbridge, lying in his bailiwick as was granted to his predecessor Mr Onslow. Advising that they should be felled and better fenced. June 4th, 1722.
Also the memorial.
Minuted:—“Brigr Munden is to perform this work according to the advice of the Survr in this report.” 2 pages.
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| 4 June. |
72. Lord Townshend to the Lords of the Treasury. Sends papers enclosed relating to a dispute between Major Bealing and Mr Paunceforth, in order that their Lps might give such directions as would prevent persons in his Majesty's service in the revenue from permitting their servants to contribute, by their behaviour, to the stirring up of riots and seditions, and to affront the civil magistrates in the execution of their office. June 4, 1722.
Three enclosures. The first is a copy of a letter signed Marmaduke Bealing, to Edwd Pauncefort, Esq., stating that two servants of the family had appeared in the town (Highgate) with cockades of green boughs, intermixed with white roses (the mark of those disaffected to his Majesty's Government). He thought it his duty to call them to account, and commanded them to surrender, and be examined, and further dealt with for their insolent offence; but the Lady Moyer's butler not only refused to do so, but had the impudence to lift up his stick at the writer, as he attempted to seize him; upon which he “stroke him one blow” with his cane when both ran away. Upon the grant of a warrant to apprehend them, the rest of the family opposed the constable in the execution of his duty, &c. Insists upon their being delivered to the constable directly. May 31, 1722. (2.) Mr Pauncefort's letter in reply excusing the servants on the plea that they had done what every body in the town had done. Would wait upon the Lord Chief Justice and see wherein the transgression lay. If they had done wrong, would make them answer for it. Highgate, May 31, 1722. (3.) The examination of the constable. 4¼ pages.
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[? About
5 June.] |
73. Petition to the Lords of the Treasury, of the Receivers appointed to take in such of the orders, tickets, affidavits, and affirmations as were not received or taken in by the former Receivers “on the Act 6o Georgii for taking subscriptions to the South Sea Company.” Have performed their trusts with great exactness and frugality, and send a specification of their labours. Pray for the issue of 139l. 10s. to their Secretary to pay him and three clerks, and for consideration of themselves (being six in number) for twelve months.
Minuted:—“5th June 1722. To be paid 150li each for this service & 139li 10s to be paid to the Sec[reta]ry, clerks, &ca p[er]suant to this petition.”
Also the “Specification” referred to. 2 pages.
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| 8 June. |
74. Lord Carteret to the Lords of the Treasury. There being great reason to apprehend that the plague has broken out in Barbary, the King of Spain has prohibited all commerce with that country. The King thinks it necessary that the like precautions should be taken with regard to Gibraltar. Inquiry is to be made as to the state of the provision there, and as to whether the contractors have fulfilled their contract. Whitehall, 8 June 1722.
Minuted:—“13th June 1722. Write to the contractor for an exact account of the amount of all the species of provisions delivered by him into the store-houses at Gibraltar, & now remaining there, & that 3 months' provisions, over & above what is now there, may be immediately sent thither.”
“L~re sent.” 1 page.
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| 8 June. |
75. Petition of Robert Dalyell, late Earl of Carnwath, to the King. By his attainder, has forfeited all his real and personal estate, and for six years has been destitute of all manner of subsistence, except what he has received from the charity of his nigh relations, who can no longer contribute to his support. Since his enlargement from the Tower has been obliged to contract many debts for the maintenance of himself and family whereby his liberty is rendered precarious, which with his life he owes to his Majesty. Prays relief.
Referred to the Lords of the Treasury.
Minuted:—“26th June 1722. Prepare a S. Manual for 600li bounty. Warrt signd 28th June 1722.” 2 pages, quarto.
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| 12 June. |
76. Memorial of the Surveyor of the woods (Wither) to the Lords of the Treasury. The repairs done about Boldrewood Lodge in the New Forest are not to exceed 491l. 17s. 6d. Memorialist is authorized to pay the same out of moneys from wood sales. There are great numbers of dead and decaying trees in the above forest. Asks that he may raise the money from them, and that he may fell 120 loads of timber to be used about the repairs. June 12, 1722. 1 page.
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| 14 June. |
77. Lord Carteret to the Lords of the Treasury. It had been represented to the King that Othniel Beale, master of a ship from New England was taken in the channel by an Algerine cruizer. The captors took out all the crew from the ship, except the master and a man and boy, and put on board 14 Algerines to take her to Algiers. After prosecuting their voyage for seven days, the master found means of conducting back the ship with the cargo and the Algerines into the river Thames. To encourage the master, his Majesty's pleasure is that their Lps direct 100l. to be paid to him as special bounty. Whitehall, June 14, 1722.
Minuted:—“20th June 1722. Prepare a warrt.—“Warrt signd 26th June 1722.” 1½ pages.
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[After
19 June.] |
78. The enclosures to a report of Mr Auditor Jett referred to him on 19 June 1722. They consist of (1) a petition signed by the mayor of the town of Glaston, in the co. of Somerset, and a large number of others addressed to the Lords of the Treasury, asking for a warrant to pay for the repairs of certain houses and chapels which have been previously repaired by his Majesty's predecessors; (2) estimate of artificers for their repair; (3) testimonial to the competency of the persons giving the estimate.
The report is not now with it.
The following is the minute outside the papers:—“12th Sept. 1722. My Lords agree to the report. Wt signd 19 Sep. 1722.” 3 pages.
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| 22 June. |
79. “An accot of the moneys paid into the Exchequer, arisen by the late Duke of Ormond's forfeited Estates.” Exchequer, 22d June 1722.
On another page of the paper is an epitome of what appear to be various clauses of the Act 7 Geo. [I.] for enabling the Earl of Arran to purchase the late Duke of Ormond's forfeited estate.
Also another paper of about the same date, entitled:—“The claims decreed out of forfeitures unsatisfyed for want of sufficient money in the Exchequer for that purpose.” 3 pages.
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[About
23 June.] |
80. Memorial of James Graham, Esq., Judge of the High Court of Admiralty in Scotland, to the King. Before the Union, memorialist had an “appointment” for his salary out of the duties of tonnage, &c. By the Articles of Union this became ineffectual. His Majesty's love of justice has caused suitable settlements to be made on other judges. Hopes he will not altogether disregard the High Court of Admiralty in Scotland. Prays for a suitable salary.
Referred to the Lords of the Treasury, 23 June 1722. 1 page.
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| 24 June. |
81. “Scotland. Accompt of salarys and incident charges of the Commissioners and Trustees of the forfeited Estates and their officers from 24th March 1721–2 to 24th June 1722 being one quarter.”
Minuted:—“14th Decr 1722. Prepare a warrt. Wt signd 19th Decr 1722.” 1 page.
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[? About
25 June.] |
82. Petition of Daniel Warford to the Lords of the Treasury. Has, for the last eight years, rented several parcels of land in Essex through which his Majesty hath a road leading to Newmarket, called his Majesty's private road. His Majesty was to pay petitioner 20l. per ann. for the use of the road. This rent is now eight years in arrear, and the rent of the farm was proportionably raised. Their Lps had ordered that the same should be paid upon his Majesty having a good title; but as petitioner is a tenant for years, and rents of two different persons, Mr Lindsey being one, who refused to grant such a private road to his Majesty, the title cannot be made secure. Prays payment of the arrears and the rent as it shall become due during his term.
Minuted:—“25th June 1722. To Mr Negus & Brigr Watkins.” 1 page.
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| 26 June. |
83. Memorial of the Master Worker (Newton) and the Controller of the Mint (Bladen) to the Lords of the Treasury. The salaries of the Clerks of the Mint which were settled about sixty years ago being insufficient for their maintenance, memorialists pray that they may be augmented by about a quarter. Mint Office, June 26, 1722.
Minuted:—“19th July 1722. Agreed to. Warrt signd 8th Augt 1722.” 1 page.
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| 27 June. |
84. Memorial of A. Cracherode to the Lords of the Treasury, docketed:—“A. Cracherode's memorial praying their Lordships' directions whether he must proceed in his Majties cause agt the B[isho]pp of Chester at the next Lancaster assizes.” 27 June 1722.
The cause was a refusal to institute Mr Samuel Peploe into the wardenship of Manchester College, to which he was presented by his Majesty. The point being whether the degree of Bachelor of Divinity, conferred upon him by the Archbishop of Canterbury, was a sufficient qualification for the wardenship, or whether the degree ought to have been taken at one of the Universities.
Minuted:—“28th June 1722. The Attor. Genl to proceed in the King's name.” 2 pages.
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