America and West Indies: February 1715

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 28, 1714-1715. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1928.

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'America and West Indies: February 1715', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 28, 1714-1715, (London, 1928) pp. 90-110. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol28/pp90-110 [accessed 19 April 2024]

February 1715

Feb. 1.
Bideford.
193. Mayor and merchants of Bideford to the Council of Trade and Plantations. The Newfoundland Fishery has for a long time past, been the principal trade of this town. Tho' not carried on for some years to so great a degree as formerly by reason of the late warr; however during the intervall of the Peace concluded at Reswick, wee did send a great many ships to that country, during which time severall were burnt and carried off by pyratts. Wee now haveing a Peace settled again, shall this season fitt out again about 30 sayle or upwards on that trade, and being still doubtfull of falling into the same misfortune of being attackt by pyratts or other enemies, doe humbly pray your Lordships to procure a man of warr to be at Ferryland, during the fishing season. The last year Capt. Wade in the Adventure was there, and did then give such demonstrations of his care and ability, etc., that we could heartily wish he might be the person imployed, etc. Signed, Cha. Davie, Mayor and 32 others. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd, Read 28th Feb., 17 14/15. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 61.]
Feb. 1. 194. Mr. Campbell to the Council of Trade and Plantations. In reply to Mr. Popple's request of Jan. 27th for information about Newfoundland, refers to his previous communications to the Board, etc. Signed, James Campbell. Endorsed, Recd. 1st Read 28th Feb., 17 14/15. 3½ pp. Enclosed,
194. i.–vi. Duplicates of Nos. 179 iv.–ix.
194. vii. Memorial of the Commissioned Officers of the Garrison of Placentia to Lt. Governor Moody. 12th Oct., 1714. State the hardships they be under owing to the small subsistence allowed, in so cold a country where provisions are scarce and dear, etc. "We must have starved this winter, had you not furnished us at your own expence with necessarys, having received none since the 24th April last from the Government." Request him to represent the absolute necessity of their having their whole pay remitted to them once a year. "Without which it will be hardly possible for an officer to subsist in this cold frozen climate, where we are lock'd up in ice from all succour and refuge, for above six months in a year." Signed, Robt. Ballenden, Fort Major, and 9 others. ¾ p.
194. viii. Petition of the soldiers of the Four Companies at Placentia to Lt. Governor Moody. Oct. 14, 1714. Your Honour having made us truely sensible of our great crime and breach of duty upon 30th Augt., and having furnished us at your own proper cost with the necessarys for our subsistence, which was the only reason which moved us to take such unbecoming measures, for which we are all very sorry and ashamed, especially since we are so fully convinced we have been misled by persons of mutinous and self-interested principals, etc., beg you to represent home the miserable condition of of our clothing, etc., and that we may have our subsistance at least six months in advance, as also some small allowance to such of us as have wives and children, etc. 1 p.
194. ix. Lt. Governor Moody's report of the rude and mutinous conduct of Capt. Thos. Philipps, 1713, 1714. His mutinous behaviour encouraged about 150 soldiers to march upon the Fort, Aug. 30, 1714, to demand clothes, provisions, rum, beer and repair of the barracks, quelled by Col. Moody as in preceding. Signed, J. Moody. Copy. 3 pp.
194. x. Lt. Governor Moody's report upon Mr. Horneck, Engineer of the garrison. On July 22, 1714, at the Governor's table and without provocation he threw two glasses into the face of Mons. Pike, the French interpreter attending M. de Costabelle. As he refused to make reparation, Col. Moody promised Mons. de Costabelle to send him to England, etc. Placentia, Oct. 14, 1714. Signed, J. Moody. 2 pp.
194. xi. Testimonial by Capt. Owen, H.M.S. Solebay, in favour of Lt. Governor Moody. Solebay at St. Helen's, Dec. 18, 1714. Signed, Wm. Owen. Copy. 1 p.
194. xii. Report by Archibald Cumings commending Lt. Governor Moody's conduct at Placentia in 1714. Jan. 22, 1715. Signed, Archd. Cumings. 2¾ pp.
194. xiii. (a) Lt. Governor Moody to Francis Gwyn, H.M. Secretary at War. Placentia, Sept. 29, 1714. Encloses an account of his disbursements, April 25, 1713–Sept. 10th, 1714, on behalf of the Garrison, etc. Signed, J. Moody. Encloses,
(b) Lt. Governor Moody to the Lord High Treasurer. Placentia, Sept. 22, 1714. The soldeiers having nothing to drink but water and no subsistance, they have mutined. To appease them I have been forced to purchase molasses to brew beer for them to the value of £251 12s. 6d. sterl., without which the severity of the frozen cruel winter, and their drinking only water thaugh'd from ice, would infallibly have killed most of the Garrison. I have presumed to draw bills upon your Lordship for that sum, which I hope your Lordship will think reasonable to pay, being in proportion not above half what has been usually allowed for beer to the late garrison at St. John's. Signed, J. Moody. Copy. The whole, 3 pp.
194. xiv. (a) Capt. John Moody's application to Sir William Windham Bart. H.M. Secretary at War. Gives details of his service and asks for the command at Newfoundland, etc. Copy. 1½ pp. Encloses,
(b) An account of Capt. Moody's services in Newfoundland etc., v. C.S.P. 1704–9. Quotes the Duke of Marlborough in reply to his request for a company in the regiment of Guards in Flanders to which he belonged:—Aug. 21st, 1710. Sr. I am very sensible of your services and merit, which I should be likewise glad to encourage; But the post you desire was disposed of before I received yor letter to the eldest Lieutenant here, who hath served long, and was very much wounded at the Battle last year, which is a peice of Justice yourself would scarce have been willing to oppose. Signed, Marlborrough. Copy. 3½ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 65, 65 i.–xv.; and (without enclosures) 195, 5. pp. 480–495.]
Feb. 2.
St. James's.
195. H.M. Warrant appointing William Wright Commissary of the Musters of the Garrison at Annapolis. Copy. Countersigned, James Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 39, 40.]
Feb. 3.
St. James's.
196. H.M. Warrant renewing appointment of Col. John Moody as Lt. Governor of Placentia. Countersigned, James Stanhope. Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. p. 39.]
Feb. 4.
Whitehall.
197. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing a draught of Instructions as usual, etc. Annexed,
197. i. Draught of H.M. Commission for Walter Hamilton to be Captain General and Governor in Chief of the Leewards Islands. Westminster, 23rd Aug., 1715. [C.O. 153, 12. pp. 153–178.]
[Feb. 4.] 198. John Frere to the Council of Trade and Plantations. William Sharpe, now President of the Councill of Barbadoes, under pretence of a personall disrespect shewne to him of which Frere is innocent, has without any just reason suspended him and transmitted complaints agt. him, of which he has denyed him a coppy, etc. Prays to see these complaints, and that Governor Lowther, in the Instructions now preparing for him, be directed to restore him to the Council, etc. Endorsed, Recd. Read 4th Feb. 17 14/15. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 35.]
Feb. 4.
Whitehall.
199. Mr. Popple to the Earl of Clarendon. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire your particular objections to the two Acts of New York (v. Jan. 25) in writing on Tuesday morning. [C.O. 5, 1123. p. 141; and 5, 1079. No. 80.]
Feb. 4.
Whitehall.
200. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I am commanded to transmitt to you the inclosed petition of Mr. Calvert, son and heir of the Lord Baltimore; and H.M. being desirous to give all possible encouragement for the educating in the Protestant religion the numerous issue of so noble a family, has ordered me to signifie to you his pleasure, that you pursue no further the directions sent you for a Commission to Brigadier Francks to be Governor of Maryland; but that you forthwith prepare a draught of a Commission and Instructions for Captain. … Hart, etc. Signed, James Stanhope. Endorsed, Recd. Read 7th Feb., 17 14/15. 1½ pp. Enclosed,
200. i. Petition of Benedict Leonard Calvert to the King. Petitioner renounced the Romish errors and was received into Church of England, Nov., 1713. Lord Baltemore, his father, resented this so much that he withdrew £450 per annum of what he had for severall years allowed him. Petitioner was reduced to live upon his marriage settlement, which is but £600 per annum, and out of which he allows his wife two, for her seperate maintenance. Petitioner hath 6 children, four sons and two daughters, all which his Father educated, and at his own charge maintain'd in Popish seminaries abroad. Petitioner has now placed them in and about London at Protestant schools. Her late Majesty, in consideration of above, granted petitioner a pension of £300, for the maintenance of his children during the life of his father, aged 85. At Petitioner's request, and that he might have some farther relief in his present circumstances, H.M. was also pleased to appoint Capt. John Hart, nephew to the present Archbishop of Tuam, who had served severall years both in Spain and Portugall, Governor of Maryland, who out of the proffits thereof has obliged himself to render Petitioner £500 per annum. The Governmt. of Maryland is a Proprietary Government, and will be in Petitioner upon the decease of his Father. Prays for continuation of pension and renewal of Capt. Hart's commission, or if there is any objection to that, that he may himself be sent as Governor. Signed, Ben. Leo. Calvert. 1 p. [C.O 5, 717. Nos. 61, 61 i.; and (without enclosure) 5, 727 p. 440.]
Feb. 4. 201. Solomon Merrett to the Council of Trade and Plantations. In reply to Mr. Popple's request for information about Newfoundland, Jan. 27, refers to previous communications. When consulted during the peace negotiations, I gave my opinion wholly against delivering the Island of Cape Brittaine (vulgarly now called Cape Britton) to the French. I am informed by masters of ships who went there last September, that very few of the French inhabitants remain at Placentia or in the parts adjacent, but are gone to settle on Cape Brittaine, etc. About 50 or 60 of the French inhabitants' servants remaine in Placentia, who have lived there some years, and by some private encouragemt. from the Governour Moody went into the woods when the French ships were sailing and remained there till after they were gone, by which prudent management of the Governour, these men will shew our people in one year the fishing grounds which without their help would be the work of many. And without that part of the country is inhabited, which by the Peace the French have made a cession of to us, it will not be of any advantage to our Nation. As for our harbours, our West Country fishermen are so well acquainted there that they will proceed in course to those parts. So it is my humble oppinion no further improvement can be made of all those parts at present. But for the improvement and security of those parts about Placentia, it hath always been my opinion, that all those parts may be free to all the ships that shal goe thither, and that they may have fishing roomes and stage roomes as settled by the Act of Parliament in our parts, which will be a great inducement to our West Countrey people to goe and inhabit there and fish. That no hindrance shall be given them by the Governour or any in authority there, but that the fishery shall be continued and incouridged by them according to the Act. That unless those parts be inhabited which probably may not be by West Country men, as they have been so long used to their old harbours, 5 or 600 of our disbanded soldiers (a great number of which beg about the streets or take worse courses for bread) be sent thither to settle with a small stock at the Nation's charge, etc. That as very few of our seamen are acquainted with those parts, the survey now on foot in which Capt. Taverner is employed may be continued, etc., and that the draught of the Island of St. Peters sent over by him may be forthwith published, etc. That due and timely care be taken to send over provisions and necessarys as soon as possible for the subsistance of the garrison and such fortifications as shall be thought necessary to be made, whereby the Commander in Chief may not be necessitated to do any irregular thing for the support of life, as I am informed hath been done by some Commanders who came from thence last Sept. and Oct. And that the officers and soldiers may have their pay and subsistance sent them over in time as their is no provitions or mony in that country, or credit when bills are not paid. That as the French are fortifiying the Island of Cape Britton, I humbly offer that we make fortifications at Placentia and such other parts as shall be thought necessary by the Ingineers. I am informed that complaints have been made against Governour Moody and Capt. Taverner, which is no new thing from Newfoundland, from whence complaints have been frequently made and have been creditted till they have been found out to be malicious and frivolous and the effects of private picks and quarrells and passion, etc. I presume your Lorps. will find these of the same nature, as both Col. Moody and Capt. Taverner are entirely good subjects to H.M. and Government and very well acquainted with Newfoundland, etc. Signed, Solomon Merrett. Endorsed, Recd. 4th, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 4½ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 63; and 195, 5. pp. 451–460.]
[Feb. 4.] 202. Archibald Cumings to the Council of Trade and Plantations. A representation of the Trade and Fishery of Newfoundland. Repeats many points previously calendared. The decay of the Fishery the last three years and particularly the last year has alomost ruined all the inhabitants and others concerned, there not being a third of the quantity of fish catched as usuall being but 80 quintalls per boate whereas wee used to catch 300, and more boats imployed last year then in many years past being to the number of about 1,000 and so many ships that several went away without fish having 150 saill last year and fish so dear that the like price was never given in Newfoundland being att 20s. pr. quintall, etc. The port of Placentia is in a miserable condition, etc. It would be an advantage to the trade and country to have some sivill Judicature or Government setled among them for many immoralities are comitted fellonies and robberies and for six months in the year no rule no Government att all but live like heathens or barbarians and even what Justice is distributed there, is very partiall and the method of recovering debts prodicial for that is strongest carries all to the ruin of the inhabitants the fishery and the rest of the creditors, and two early shiping fish proves very detrimental and discouraging to the inhabitants and boat keepers least all the fish should be shiped off and the servants deprived of their wages so that no fish should be shiped off until the 10th and 15th Aug., but from such person where ther is no doubt of their paying ther debts, and that where one is like to prove insolvent that one creditor be appointed to receive all and make an equall distribution to the other creditors, for the Admiralls prove generall (y) the greatest knaves and do most prejudice being both judge and party, etc. So it wold be requisite to have a sivile Government and persons appointed to administer justice in most populous and frequented places that they may be governed a (s) Brittains and not live like a banditie or forsaken people without law or Gospell having no means of Religion ther being but one clergyman in all ye country, etc. Describes Cape Breton now called Royall Island. The principall settlement and fortifications are Lewisburg and St. Ann where they are erecting strong fortifications having one hundred and odd guns and 8 mortars with 7 companies of regular troops four att Lewisbourg and three at St. Ann a Governour Lt. Governour and Intendant at Lewisburg and a Lt. Governour at St. Ann. They have had 3 men of warr ther all this year fortifying and going to Placentia to carry off ther people artillery ammunition and effects, etc. I compute above 100 familys gone from Newfoundland and near 2,000 men at Cape Britton were they had a great fishery last year having 300 quintales pr. boat and are endeavouring to gett sloops to fish upon the banks as the New England men do, etc. It is reported that the French design Cape Britton to be one of ye strongest setlements abroad and will be of great advantage to them for their ships bound to Quebeck to wood and water, or coming from the Spanish West Indies or the South Sea, as they have done formerly att Placentia, and on the contrary of great disadvantage to us in case of warr, St. Peters not being 45 leagues from them, and all the continent trade exposed, being a good rendezvous for privateers, etc. Signed, Archd. Cumings. Endorsed, Recd. 4th, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 8 pp. Enclosed,
202. i. Considerations on the Trade to Newfoundland. Signed, (autograph) Archd. Cumings. Printed. London. 3¾ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 62, 62 i.; and (without enclosure) 195, 5. pp. 435–449.]
Feb. 5.
Admty. Office.
203. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty being now appointing ships for the service of Newfoundland, desire the Lords Commissioners for Trade to consider what Instructions may be necessary for the Commander in Chief of the said ships, etc. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed, Recd. 7th, Read 9th Feb., 1714/15. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 58; and 195, 5. p. 424.]
Feb. 5.
St. James's.
204. H.M. Warrant renewing the appointment of William Norris as Naval Officer in Jamaica. Countersigned, Ja. Stanhope. Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 41, 42.]
Feb. 7.
Whitehal.
205. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Reply to Jan. 26th. We have no objection why H.M. may not appoint Sir C. Hobby Lt. Governor of Annapolis Royal, etc. Autograph signatures. 1 p. [C.O. 217, 31. No. 14; and 218, 1. p. 153.]
Feb. 8.
Whitehall.
206. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose following.
206. i. Draft of Commissions for Elizeus Burges to be Governor of the Massachusets Bay and New Hampshire. [C.O. 5, 913. p. 505; and 5, 914. pp. 149–184.]
Feb. 8.
Somerset House.
207. Earl of Clarendon to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reasons against the Acts of New York and New Jersey referred to Jan. 25. Money is due to complainant on account of his salary and disbursements made for the Government when Governor of New York. The Act of New York provides for payments where none is due, and for part or no payment of just debts, whilst one clause says that no demand shall be made for any debt not there provided for, which plainly excludes complainant. Agratuity is given by this Act for every member of the Assembly for passing this Act, and particularly to Mr. Morris for drawing it, etc. Asks for a copy of it. Complainant served as Governor of New Jersey upwards of 3 years without receiving any salary, and disbursed several sums out of his own pocket for that Government. By the late Act of New Jersey they dispose of money remaining out of a sum granted to the Queen, which they have no power to do, because it is the money of the Crown, and by this Act it is ordered to be paid to the Governor, which is contrary to his Instructions. This Act also discharges the Treasurer from being accountable, whereas by the Governor's Instructions, all moneys granted to the Crown by the Assembly, are to be accounted for to the Treasury here, etc. Set out, N. Y. Col. Doc. V. 398. Signed, Clarendon. Endorsed, Recd. Read 8th Feb., 1714/15. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 77.]
Feb. 8.
Whitehall.
208. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing draughts of Instructions, etc. Annexed,
208. i. Draught of H.M. Commission to Robt. Hunter to be Governor of New York and the territories depending thereon. [C.O. 5, 1123. pp. 142–166.]
Feb. 9.
Whitehall.
209. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire to know by to-morrow morning, whether the Act for the incouragement of the Trade to America, pass'd in the sixth year of her late Majesty's reign, continues still in force. [C.O. 324, 10. p. 61.]
Feb. 9.
St. James's.
210. H.M. Warrant renewing the appointment of Edward Perrie as Naval Officer of the Leeward Islands. Countersigned, James Stanhope. Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 54, 55.]
[Feb. 10.] 211. Copy of Order of Queen in Council, Nov. 24, 1712, restoring Alexander Skeene to his several places, etc. Endorsed, Recd. Read 10th Feb., 1715. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 36; and 29, 13. pp. 172–174.]
Feb. 10. 212. Further proposals (v. Dec. 31, 1714, etc.) by Thomas Coram, Richard Jones, etc., for settling disbanded officers and soldiers in the County of Cornwall in North America. Signed, Thomas Coram, Richd. Jones, Danl. Hall, Will. Armstrong, William Burke, Samuel Ball. Endorsed, Recd. 10th, Read 15th Feb., 1714/15. 2 pp. Enclosed,
212. i. Estimate of the charge for settling the new Colony near the River Sagadehock (£60,000). ¾ p. [C.O. 5, 866. Nos. 30, 30 i.; and 5, 914. pp. 5–9.]
[Feb. 10.] 213. Copies of papers, proclamations etc., relating to the French inhabitants of Nova Scotia, with lists of those who embarked for Cape Breton etc. and negotiations concerning the same. 13th Aug.—1st Sept., 1714. Signed, Fr. Nicholson, Tho. Caulfield, De Pensens and La Ronde Denys. Endorsed, Recd. Read 10th Feb., 1714/15. French. 57 pp. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos. 53–81.]
[Feb. 10.] 214. (a) M. Duvivier to Governor Nicholson. St. Louis, Cap Britton, 1st Dec. (N.S.), 1713. Requests him to release a ship belonging to his brother in law, M. de Pobomcoup, detained by Col. Vetch. Signed, Duvivier. Copy. French. 1 p.
(b) Governor Nicholson to M. Duvivier. Annapolis Royall, 20th Aug., 1714. I have endeavoured to do M. de Pombecoup all the justice I am at present capable of, etc. Mr. Vetch's behaviour therein is but like most of the rest of his actions. Signed, Fr. Nicholson. Copy. ¾ p.
(c) Mr. l'Hirmitte to Governor Nicholson. Louisbourg, 12th July (N.S.), 1713. According to the 14th Article of the Treaty the inhabitants of Colonies ceded by France have liberty to withdraw elsewhere within a year with their moveable effects, and the Queen has since allowed such inhabitants to sell their goods and immoveable effects, etc. Being informed by several of the inhabitants of Port Royal, Mines, and Baubassin, that he who commands at Port Royal in your absence has forbidden them to go out, and even refused those who have asked his permission to do so, etc., I have sent M. de la Ronde denis Capt. of a company of marines, to confer with you, etc. It would be desirable that you should give orders throughout your Government that, if in time of peace any subjects of the King or other Catholic Apostolic and Roman Nation should desert from these Colonies to yours, they should be arrested and returned to their master together with what they carried off. We would do the same for the subjects of the Queen, which would prevent many thefts, etc. Signed, l'Hirmitte. Copy. French. 2 pp.
(d) M. St. Ovide de Brouillan to Governor Nicholson. Louisbourg, 24th July (N.S.), 1714. I have charged M. du Pensens Capt. with preceding. He is instructed to confer with you conjointly with M. de la Ronde as to why the subjects of the King are detained etc. Signed, St. Ovide de Brouillan. Copy. French. 1 p.
(e) Governor Nicholson to M. de Brouillan. Annapolis Royal, Aug. 20, 17[14]. Reply to preceding. You will see by the Lt. Governor's report that I had taken care to send the Articles and a copy of H.M. letter to me, to have them made publick to all the inhabitants here as soon as possible, which has been duly complyed with, and in my opinion they were not hindred from withdrawing from hence, etc. Refers to papers indicated above. As to that other part of your letter concerning deserters etc., I shall transmitt that home to know H.M. Royal pleasure therein, etc. Signed, Fra. Nicholson. Copy. 1½ pp.
(f) Governor Nicholson to Mr. I'Hirmitte. Annapolis Royal, Aug. 20, 1714. In reply to (c), refers to preceding. Signed, Fra. Nicholson. ½ p. The whole endorsed, Recd. Read 10th Feb., 1714/15. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos. 82–86.]
Feb. 11. 215. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reply to Feb. 9. I am of opinion that the Act for the encouragement of the trade to America is not now in force as to any matter whatsoever happening after the war ended, all the parts of that Act being adapted for the time of war. Signed, Edw. Northey. Endorsed, Recd. 12th, Read 15th Feb., 1714/15. ¾ p. [C.O. 323, 7. No. 36; and 324, 10. p. 62.]
Feb. 11.
Whitehall.
216. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing draughts of Instructions for Governor Hunter, etc. Enclosed,
216. i. Copy of H.M. Commission to Robert Hunter to be Governor of New Jersey. [C.O. 5, 995. pp. 177–189; and (covering letter only) 5, 1079, No. 81; and (without covering letter) 5, 190. pp. 396–427.]
[Feb. 11.] 217. Copy of H.M. Commission and Instructions for Robert Hunter to be Governor of New York. Countersigned, James Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 381–395.]
Feb. 11.
Whitehall.
218. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose draught of Commission for Governor Hart. We are preparing draughts of Instructions, etc. [C.O. 5, 727. p. 441.]
Feb. 11.
Whitehall.
219. Mr. Popple to John Taylour, Secretary to the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury. H.M. having been pleased by his Commission, Dec. 13, 1714, to appoint the Rt. Hon. William Lord Berkeley of Stratton, Sir Jacob Astley, Robt. Molesworth, John Cokburne, Archibald Hutcheson, John Chetwynd, Charles Cooke, and Paul Docminique to be H.M. Commissioners for promoting ye Trade of this Kingdom and for inspecting and improving ye Plantations in America and elsewhere, their Lordships desire you will move the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury that a Privy Seal may pass as usual for their Lordps. and the Officers under them. Mr. Bryan Wheelock has been appointed as Deputy Secretary in the room of Mr. Drift. (v. Aug. 29, 1712). [C.O. 389, 37. p. 86.]
Feb. 15.
Whitehall.
220. Mr. Popple to Henry Martin, Inspector General of the Customs. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire an account of the masts, pitch and tar imported since 1706, from the Northern Crowns, and from H.M. Plantations in America. [C.O. 324, 10. p. 63.]
[Feb. 15.] 221. John Borland of Boston, mercht., to the Council of Trade and Plantations. As Agent Victualer for the garison at Annapolis Royall, petitioner advanced on their account £1,070 14s. 10¾d. during Col. Vetch's government. Genl. Nicholson refuses to draw for their pay since 24th Aug., 1712, and has refused with male treatment petitioner's application for his order to the paymaster for payment of the sums due to him according to their receipts and bills, etc. Prays for assistance, being lyable to be arrested every day, etc. Signed, John Borland. Endorsed, Recd. Read 15th Feb., 1714/15. 1½ pp. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 88.]
Feb. 16.
Whitehal.
222. Mr. Popple to Sir E. Northey. Encloses for his opinion in point of law Act of Barbados, 1708, to dock the intail of John Lucie Blackman's estate, etc. [C.O. 29, 13. p. 174.]
Feb. 16.
Whitehall.
223. Mr. Popple to the Earl of Clarendon. There being at present so much business depending before the Council of Trade and Plantations, which H.M. service requires to be dispatched with all possible expedition; and which will take up all the hands in the Office for a considerable time, I am to acquaint your Lordship, that if you will send anybody to the Office, they may copy the Acts of New York against which your Lordship has objections. [C.O. 5, 1123. p. 166; and 5, 1079. No. 82.]
Feb. 17. 224. Officers concerned for the new settlement in North America to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reasons for a settlement to be made on the land between the River Sagadehock alias Kenebeck and the River St. Croix preferable to any place between Cape Sable and Cape Briton. (1) The land all along the coast between Cape Briton being in general so barren that the French never thought it worth their while to make any settlement thereon. (2) By the late Peace the tract of land desired for a settlement seems to be left for the French who were in possession of it before the Peace. For by the XIIth Article it is provided Nova Scotia with its antient boundaries shall be deliver'd up to the Crown of Great Britain now it's well known that the antient bounds of Nova Scotia was allways understood to be the River St. Croix. The French King's Commission to his Governour of Nova Scotia comprehends all the land home to Kenebeck River. And we will leave it to your Honours' wise consideration what the consequence will be if the French should settle on those lands between New England and Nova Scotia. We also propose in return of H.M. goodness to us in this settlement to furnish H.M. with as many masts and navall stores as shall amount to the full charge of the settlement without puting H.M. to any manner of charge unless it be for fetching them, etc., etc. Endorsed, Recd. 17th, Read 18th Feb., 1714/15. 1½ pp. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 92.]
[Feb. 17.] 225. Copy of H.M. Commission and Instructions for Col. Nicholson, General of the Expedition against Port Royal, 18th March, 1710. Endorsed, Recd. from Col. Nicholson, Read 17th Feb., 1714/15. 2 pp. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos. 89, 90; and 218, 1. pp. 155–163.]
[Feb. 17.] 226. Copy of passport given by M. Daniel Dauger de Subercase, "Gouverneur de l'Acadie de Cap Breton Isles et terres adjacentes despuis le Cap de Roziers du fleuve St. Laurent jusqu' a l'Ouest de la Riviere de Kainbeky," to Majors Richard Mullins and Charles Brown, to return to England after having conducted us to Rochelle or Rochefort, conformably to the capitulation made between General Nicholson and us, on the surrender of the Fort of Port Royal, 23rd Oct., 1710, etc. Signed, Desubercase. Endorsed as preceding. French. ¾ p. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 91; and 218, 1. pp. 164, 165.]
Feb. 18.
Dartmouth.
227. Mayor of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Our merchants etc. trading to Newfoundland pray to be heard on the scheme for that trade lately laid before your Ldships, etc. Recommend Mr. John Roope to give information, etc. Signed, Nath. Terry, Mayor. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd, Read 28th Feb., 1715. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 60.]
Feb. 21. 228. Rebecca Taverner to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Wife of William Taverner, of Pool, H.M. Surveyor of Newfoundland. Replies in his absence to the complaints of William Cleeves (Dec. 23). Cleeves is alone in his complaint, even the other two fishing Admiralls do not joyn with him therein. Taverner has diligently fulfilled his Commission and Instructions, etc. Endorsed, Recd. 21st Feb., Read 2nd March, 1714/15. 8 pp. Enclosed,
228. i. Petition of Rebecca Taverner to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Capt. Taverner was born in Newfoundland and commanded severall merchant ships, and in the late warr visited the French settlements there with letters of mart, whereby he became acquainted with their coasts and harbours, etc. Particularly he form'd a design for surprizing some of the French harbours there in the fishing season, and propos'd the same to Samuel Shepherd, who sent three ships under him and two others, and the project was perform'd with good success. Afterwards some merchants of London and Scotland propos'd to him to be cheif Director of cod fishery which they intended to try on the coast of Scotland after the manner of Newfoundland. He was induc'd thereto because there was no protection from the French in the winter season at Newfoundland, for want of which he had formerly sustain'd great losses there. In Feb. 1714, he was sent for by Mr. Campbell, and presented to the Board of Trade who wanted a person who was well acquainted with the navigation and trade of Newfoundland, especially the French parts. They with difficulty induced him to relinquish his private business. He received his Commission, but could not obtain the settlement of his sallary from the Lord Treasurer, etc. About the middle of Augt. last Col. Moody's memorial relating to Capt. Taverner's case was transmitted by the Board of Trade to the then Secretary of State, who laid the same before the Lords Justices. At the same time Mr. Campbell laid the case before the Duke of Shrewsbury, then Lord Trear. But upon some minutes found the Treasury, entred when the Earl of Oxford was Trear., importing that the said service, if necessary, might be performed by Genll. Nicholson, and the Lords Justices apprehending (as is humbly presumed) that Taverner knew thereof, and concealed the same from the Board of Trade, were pleased to disallow his sallary. Refers to his reports, the general satisfaction of the merchants trading to Newfoundland with the survey, and their opinion that it was necessary and could not be performed by Genll. Nicholson. Capt. Taverner has made greater progress therein than could reasonably have been expected in so short a time, and shown great care in lessening the expenses. He has been at very great charges to the utter ruin of himself and family, etc. Prays their Lordships to represent his case to H.M., that his Commission may be renewed, his sallary established, and his extraordinary services and expences recompensed, etc. 5 pp.
228. ii. Certificate of Matthew Hellerd, seafaring man, in favour of Capt. Taverner in the matter of Wm. Cleeves. Grand Bank, Feb. 5, 1715. Signed, Mathew Hellerd. 1 p.
228. iii. Similar certificate by John Ruston, Commander of the good ship Tyger gally, Feb. 1st, 1715. Signed, Jno. Ruston. 3 pp.
228. iv. Merchants trading to Newfoundland to the Lords Justices. Express satisfaction at the appointment of Capt. Taverner and the scope of his commission, etc. Signed, Robert Heysham and 18 others. Sept. 3, 1714. 1 p.
228. v. Duplicate of preceding. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 75, 75 –v.]
Feb. 21. 229. Dr. Daniel and his son Samuel Cox to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Further reason against renewing Coll. Hunter's Commissions for the Governmts. of New York and New Jersey. Refer to previous general charge. (Jan. 14). Continue:—Pursuant to your Ldps.' directions we now present the following particulars, which we should have been enabled to have done more fully had not, (to our great surprize and we suppose against all common right), the coppys of his Commissions, some of his Instructions and letters been denied us. (1) He turn'd out the Sherriff of Middesex and Somersett in New Jersey and the Sherriff of the Citty and County of New York without signifying any cause to H.M. etc. (2) He turn'd out most of the Judges and Justices of the Peace throughout New Jersey, without signifying the cause to H.M. etc. or them. (3) He appointed severall new Judges and Justices of the Peace in New Jersey and New York, some not residing in the Province for which they were appointed, others not fitt for those employments, but all without the advice and consent of H.M. Council. (4) He has permitted to sitt and act in the Assembly of New Jersey without qualifying themselves according to the laws of England, altho such persons are by his Commission and Instructions particularly made incapable. (5) He has past all the laws enacted by the Assembly of both Provinces in a stile directly contrary to his Instructions, altho otherwise advised by H.M. Councill. (6) Not one of all the Acts for raiseing money which he has past have been framed according to the stile of Acts of Parliament in England, nor such money etc. mentioned to be granted to the Queen. (7) He has permitted very great sums of money to be issued and dispos'd of directly contrary to his Instructions. Nor hath he taken care that books of accounts have been duly kept and fairly attested upon oath; nor transmitted such books to the High Treasurer and Council of Trade, etc. And hath also permitted a clause to be inserted in an Act of New Jersey whereby the estate of the Treasurer hath been for ever acquitted from a great sum of money then in his hands altho the same was never accounted for. (8) He hath past severall Acts in both Provinces directly repugnant to the laws of England, etc. (9) He hath arbitrarily imprisoned, injur'd the freehold, and taken away the goods of severall of the inhabitants of New Jersey, not only without any law to justify him, but directly repugnant to the laws of England and contrary to his Instructions. (10) He hath erected Courts or officers of Judicature in New Jersey, not before erected or establish'd, to the great detriment of the inhabitants, whereby Justice has been deny'd and perverted contrary to the Laws of England, etc. (11) He hath very much injur'd and oppressed the inhabitants of New Jersey by the great delay of Justice, occasion'd by his not calling a Councill in 2 years time, tho many writts of error were depending before the Councill, and by adjourning the Supream Court of New Jersey without advice or consent of H.M. Councill for a whole term, contrary to Magna Charta, etc. (12) He hath illegally order'd the restitution of the goods of severall persons which (pursuant to an Act of New Jersey made before he was Governour) were regularly destrain'd. These are some few of his many mismagements, which we can clearly prove. And many more equall, if not greater weight we question not fully to make out, if we might obtain a coppy of his Commission, etc. ut supra, which favour has been granted to others, etc. Abstract. Set out, N.J. Archives, 1st Ser. IV., 203. Signed, Dan. Coxe. Endorsed, Recd. Read 21st Feb., 1714/15. 3¼ pp. [C.O. 5, 970. No. 170.]
Feb. 22.
Whitehal.
230. Mr. Popple to Richard Harris. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire you will reduce into writing what you said to them this day in relation to the French settlements at Hispaniola, etc. [C.O. 138, 14. pp. 171, 172.]
Feb. 22.
Whitehal.
231. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. Enclose following. Continue:—As H.M. has been pleas'd to dismiss William Sharpe, Alexander Walker and Samuel Beresford from the Council, we have inserted the names of Thomas Maycock, Guy Ball and John Lucie Blackman in the list of Councillors, etc. Annexed,
231. i. Draught of Instructions for Governor Lowther. Similar to previous Instructions. [C.O. 29, 13. pp. 175–295.]
Feb. 23. 232. James Campbell to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Refers to Memorial of Feb. 1st. From which it will plainly appear that altho' the Newfoundland trade and fishery is amongst the most valuable branches, if not the first of our Brittish commerce, yet neither the industry of those who have carried it on abroad, nor the continual representations about it at home, nor the notorious incroachment of our enemys upon us herein, have been able for many years past to obtain such protection, encouragement, relief and redress as it necessarly required, whereby the British nursery of seamen is almost ruin'd, whilst that of the French is rais'd and growing, etc. The fishery and trade can never be fully improv'd or sufficiently secured to great Brittain, untill it is entirely in our own hands, and therefore I think it necessary for the further improvement and security of it, that the publick do embrace the first opportunity as they shall judge convenient for obtaining it to be so. I think that the French ought to be as narrowly watch'd, and as much straitned as possible in those parts of it, where by the late Treaty of Peace they have still liberty to fish, care should be taken that they do not exceed the limits reserved to them, nor build houses, or reside there in winter. Suggests a small fort and garrison and a sloop constantly to attend the service of Newfoundland, or both, etc., etc. We ought to encourage inhabitants to settle and reside there, summer and winter. Recommends Capt. Taverner for the survey. Mr. Shepherd senior says he never knew any other so perfectly master of all the parts of that Fishery, etc. Placentia and the Island of Ferryland must be fortifyed, (v. C.S.P. 1709–1711), and perhaps the Island of St. Peters, etc. Many disorders have formerly happen'd between the Commodores and the land officers about their different punctilios and powers, and upon their appealls here, it has been given sometimes one way, sometimes another, etc. It were well that matters were now settled to prevent the like contests for the future. Your Lordsps. will probably find yourselves troubled annually with complaints from the masters of ships against the officers of the garrison, etc., and as they call it trading. I conceive that there are not necessarys for life to be had in Newfoundland, but by means that may be deem'd trading some way or other, and that it is the common interest that officer and soldier and everybody that pleases shall catch and cure as many fish as they can, as well as the Commodores and Capts. of the King's ships. But the declaring of your Lordsps. in this particular will save a great deall of time and trouble. Col. Moody desires me to represent that the garrison at Placentia is without a Chaplain, etc., etc. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 3 large closely written pp. Enclosed,
232. i. An account of James Campbell's losses and sufferings on account of the Collony and Trade of Newfoundland (v. C.S.P. June 2, 1709). The report of the Council of Trade in favour of petitioner was referred by H.M. Order in Council, March 1, 1710, to the Lord High Treasurer. But soon after the Earl of Oxford was appointed Lord High Treasurer, and Mr. Campbell never obtained a report thereon. 2 large closely written pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 66, 66 i.; and (without enclosure) 195, 5. pp. 496–513.]
Feb. 23.
Williamsburgh.
233. Copies of Proclamations by Lt. Governor Spots wood (a) continuing officers until further orders, (b) removing the embargo on export of grain, (c) dissolving the Assembly, (d) and (June 15th) for taking up persons coming out of North Carolina without passports, etc. [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 24.]
Feb. 23.
St. James's.
234. Order of King in Council. Referring following to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. 25th Feb., Read 12th April, 1715. ¾ p. Enclosed,
234. i. Petition of John Ayscough. Petitioner, having recovered his health and designing to return to Jamaica, prays to be restored to his place in the Council, etc. Copy. ¾ p. [C.O. 137, 10. Nos. 71, 71 i.; and 138, 14. pp. 216–218.]
Feb. 23.
Whitehall.
235. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and Plantations. H.M. having been pleased to appoint Mr. Benjamin Bennet to be Lt. Governour of the Bermuda Islands; I desire you will direct a draught of a Commission and Instructions to be prepared for him, etc. Signed, James Stanhope. Endorsed, Recd. 28th Feb., Read 2nd March, 1714/15. 1 p. [C.O. 37, 9. No. 32; and 38, 7. p. 198.]
Feb. 23.
Whitehall.
236. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following. It is H.M. pleasure, that you take the same into your consideration, and how far what is laid down in it may contribute to the improvement of the Plantations, and report your opinion thereof. Signed, James Stanhope. Endorsed, Recd. 24th, Read 25th Feb., 1714/15. 1 p. Enclosed,
236. i. A Treatise Of the American Plantations. Oct. 18, 1714. Upon the advantage of the Plantation Trade; value of exports, etc. On the administration of Justice; the Plantation Courts and Governors; Appeals from thence; and the Council of Trade; "There have bin many persons at severall times past put into that Commission for different reasons then their abillity, and therefore it has not hitherto produced such effects as might be expected from it. And it was impossible that Board should make a right judgment of wrongs, oppressions and Acts, unless some at that Board had a perfect and personal knowledge of the nature of the Plantations, and of the people, as likewise of their different laws and constitutions," etc. Proposes that it might be strengthened by appointment of two merchants and ex-Governors, etc. Printed. N.C. Col. Rec. II. 154. Endorsed as preceding. 16¾ pp. [C.O. 323, 7. Nos. 38, 38 i.; and (without enclosure) 324, 10. p. 64.]
Feb. 23.
St. James's.
237. Order of King in Council. Referring following to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. 25th Feb., Read 26th April, 1715. 1 p. Enclosed,
237. i. Petition of Humphrey Sheppard to the King. Prays H.M. confirmation of Governor Douglas' grant to him of a plantation in the French quarter of St. Kitts, made in consideration of his great losses by the French invasion etc. 1 p.
237. ii. Petition of Mary Bowden, widow, to the King. Prays H.M. to grant her a plantation in the French part of St. Kitts, which was granted to her by General Codrington, retaken by the French, taken from her again by Governor Parke, granted again to her by the late Queen, but held in suspence from her by Governor Parke till that grant had expired, and then granted by him to Governor Lambert, his partner. 1¼ pp.
237. iii. The case of Humphrey Sheppard. He has spent nearly £500 in cultivation his plantation (v. April 4th), and its always near 18 months before any profitt can be reaped, and the grant being for so short a term, three years, it cannot answer his first cost. Petitioner was obliged to sell his commission as quarter-master of H.M. Regiment in the Leeward Islands for not half its value in order to come to England to beg for an extension of the term of the grant, and has now been 18 months waiting in England. Meanwhile Governor Douglas has made a fresh grant of the plantation to Mr. Mead, whose grandson has married Douglas' daughter, etc. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 10. Nos. 50, 50 i.–iii.; and (without enclosures) 153, 12. pp. 189, 190.]
Feb. 23.
St. James's.
238. Order of King in Council. Referring enclosed petition to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. Read 4th March, 1714/15. 1 p. Enclosed,
238. i. Petition of Benedict Leonard, Lord Baltemore. Refers to petition Feb. 4th. Since then, petitioner's father is dead, and the proprietaryship of Maryland is by law vested in petitioner. Prays H.M. allowance and approbation of John Hart, nominated by him Governor of Maryland. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. Nos. 62, 62 i.; and 5, 727. pp. 442, 443.]
Feb. 23.
St. James's.
239.Copy of H.M. Instructions to Governor Lowther. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 55–98.]
Feb. 24.
Whitehall.
240. Council of Trade and Plantations to the King. In reply to Feb. 5th, quote representations of 5th May, and 26th Oct. 1715. Conclude:—We are humbly of opinion that the petitioner, Elizabeth Salenave, is deserving of compassion and have nothing to offer why your Majesty may not extend your Royal favour to her accordingly. [C.O. 153, 12. pp. 183–186.]
Feb. 25.
Whitehall.
241. Mr. Pringle to Mr. Popple. Mr. Secretary Stanhope judges the inclos'd papers may be of use to the Council of Trade and Plantations, when they have under their consideration the affairs of Newfoundland, etc. The orders from Mr. Broomley to Col. Moody should have gone by the sloop Happy, but she getting no further then Ireland, they have been return'd to this office. Requests return of papers. Signed, Ro. Pringle. Endorsed, Recd. 25th, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 1 p. Enclosed,
241. i. Report of the Surveyor General to the Board of Ordnance upon Placentia, 11th Feb., 1714. Signed, A. Richards. Copy. 4 pp.
241. ii. Account of stores sent to Placentia, 26th June, 1713. Copy. 4½ pp.
241. iii. Account of stores sent to Placentia but not delivered, by the sloop Happy (v. covering letter). 9th Sept., 1714. Copy. 2¾ pp.
241. iv. Mr. Secretary Bromley to Lt. Governor Moody. Whitehall, 8th Sept., 1714. Copy. 2 pp.
241. v. Board of Ordnance to Lord Townshend, giving an account of stores sent to Placentia. 11th Feb., 1714. Copy. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 64, 64 i.–v.; and 195, 5. pp. 461–479.]
Feb. 25.
Whitehall.
242. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to Governor Lord A. Hamilton. I had not an opportunity before I went to Vienna of writing to your Lopp., but I find that in my absence, my Lord Townshend acquainted you that the King had honoured me with the station of one of his principal Secretaries of State, etc. After my congratulating your Lop. on H.M. renewing your Commission which I doubt not you have been apprised before now; I am to acquaint you that I have in my hands your Lop's. letter to my lord Townshend of Dec. 10, etc., all which have been laid before the King, who approves of the several steps taken by your Lordship in execution of your orders sent you upon the death of her late Majesty. As to what your Lordp. writes in relation to the difficulties you meet with from the Assembly to grant the Additionall Pay which is necessary for subsisting the two independing companys now established there, as that matter lies now by your Representation before the Councill of Trade, as soon as they have considered it, and given their opinion, I shall lay it before H.M. and endeavor to have his directions for your Lordship. H.M. has been pleased to appoint Mr. Broderick Attourney General of that Island which I believe by what your brother my Lord Orkney, who sollicited it has told me, will not be unacceptable to your Lordp. The Board of Ordnce. haveing been directed to dispose of H.M. stores that are in that Island, I am to signify to your Lordship H.M. pleasure that you give all necessary countenance and assistance to the person the Board shall employ for that purpose that the stores may be disposed to the best advantage. Signed, James Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 98–100.]
Feb. 28.
Whitehall.
243. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. We are now preparing some Heads of Enquiry and Instructions as usual, for the Newfoundland Commodore, etc.; in the doing whereof we find one difficulty. The Act of Parliament, 10th and 11th K. William, to encourage the trade to Newfoundland, do's require that no alien or stranger whatsoever (not residing within the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales or Toun of Berwick upon Tweed) shall at any time hereafter take any bait, or use any sort of trade or fishing whatsoever in Newfoundland or any of the Islands or places thereunto belonging. The 13th Article of the Treaty of Peace with France concluded at Utrecht, doth give up all Newfoundland with the Islands adjacent to this Kingdom, and the French are thereby excluded from fishing in any parts thereof, except in that part only, which stretches from the place call'd Cape Bonavista, to the Northern Point of the said Island, and from thence running down by the Western side, reaches as far as the place call'd Point Riche. As these interfere with one another, we are apprehensive that in case we shou'd give an instruction to the Commodore, to take care that the French do not fish in any parts, but those to which they are limited, it may be interpreted, that they have leave to fish in those places; which tho' consonant to the Treaty, is contrary to the Act of Parliament. And therefore we desire you will please to let us have directions, as soon as conveniently you can, for that we are inform'd, the ships bound to Newfoundland are near upon their departure. [C.O. 195, 6. pp. 17–19.]
Feb. 28.
Pilgrim, in Barbadoes.
244. William Sharpe, President of the Council of Barbados, to the Council of Trade and Plantations. By H.M. sloop, Jamaica, Capt. Knighton Commander, who arriv'd here the 11th instant, I had the honour of your Lordships' packet (Aug. 11th and 19th etc.). Refers to enclosures relating to Sancta Lucia. The French pretend, that some of their wood-cutters there have been disturb'd, and their wood taken from them by H.M. ships of war here; and insinuate their right to cut timber there; under colour of which they build (as I have been inform'd lately) several small hutts, which may, in time, become settlements, not easily remov'd. Upon consulting the Patent, and Instructions for this Government, I thought it my duty to assert H.M. sole right of Soveraignty to that Island, as well as Tobago, in the manner I have in my answer; and, in obedience to those Instructions, I have encourag'd the Indians, inhabitants of those Islands, to continue under H.M. protection, and to reject any dependence upon any other Prince. One of them, who stiles himself, and is acknowledg'd by them as, their Head, or King, has been up with me, and demanded succour against the negroes of those places, who were in arms against them. I thought it my duty, on this occasion, to give him all assurances of protection, and to obtain from him an ample acknowledgement, and recognition of H.M. Soveraignity, which he has made in the most publick and authentick manner. I sent down H.M. two ships of war the Speedwell, Capt. Phillip Vanbrugh, and the Valeur, Capt. John St. Lo, with them, who found the negroes and Indians had pretty well composed their differences. The scituation of Sancta Lucia giving it a great influence on Martinique, it cannot be adviseable, in my humble opinion, to permit any Foreign State, so much as a pretence to start any claim of right to it, which these small hutts may, in process of time, afford'em. I intend therefore, in a few days, to view, in person, such of those Islands as are under this Government, in order to know perfectly the true state of them; which, as soon as the new Governour, Mr. Lowther, comes, I shall bring with me, together with the Recognition aforesaid, and shall do myself the honour to lay'em before H.M., for H.M. consideration, leaving an authentick duplicate among the Records in the Secretary's Office here, etc. Signed, Wm. Sharpe. Endorsed, Recd. 2nd, Read 4th May, 1715. 4 pp. Enclosed,
244. i. M. Duquesne, Governor of Martinique to the Governor of Barbados, Fort Royal, Martinique, 24th Feb. (N.S.), 1715. Complains that English ships at Santa Lucia have taken away from French subjects wood cut by them there. Complains of the violence used by Capt. St. Lo, the Valeur, on this occasion to the subjects of the (French) King, who always during peace, and with the (French) Governor General's pass-port, have been at St. Lucia to cut timber, without disturbing the subjects of the King of England, who are there also. Requests the return of the wood, and that such a thing be forbidden for the future, etc. P.S. I have just heard, that several of your English ships are going to Tobago to cut wood there; you know that that ought not to be, and that they are not allowed to do so. Signed, Duquesne. Copy. French. 1 p.
244. ii. President Sharpe to the Governor of Martinique. Pilgrim, in Barbados. Feb. 21, 1714 (=1715). Reply to preceding. I cannot find that any of the King's ships have done what is alledg'd, nor that they have anyway acted contrary to their duty. The King my Master's avow'd, sole right of Soveraignty to Sancta Lucia cannot be unknown to you, nor is now to be controverted; and therefore, Sir, it cannot be permitted, that any persons, other than H.M. own subjects, should settle, or cut wood there, with H.M. license: I must therefore earnestly press you to give order, that such of the King's your Master's subjects as I hear are now about to settle there may forthwith remove, and that none of them resettle there for the future, etc. The same right the King my Master has to the Island of Tobago; and therefore I can't but be surpriz'd at the postscript to your Excellency's letter, etc. I must remind you that the respective subjects of the two Crowns are not permitted to trade one with the other, in these parts, etc. Signed, Wm. Sharpe. Copy. 1½ pp. [C.O. 28, 14. Nos. 38, 38 i., ii.; and (without enclosures) 29, 13. pp. 300–304.]
Feb. 28.
Whitehal.
245. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Stanhope. We are inform'd that the Fort at Placentia, is in a miserable condition, being all out of repair and not one house dry to live in: The soldiers are in great want of cloaths and pay, and have nothing but water to drink; and their other provisions (notwithstanding they are at short allowance) will be expended in March next. So that unless there be supplies immediately sent to the garrison of pay and provisions at least, it will be reduc'd to very great extremity. And as we are this day inform'd, that Nicholas King, master of the Rose galley, lying at Fountain Stairs near Rotherhith, proposes to sail on Thursday next, for Newfoundland, if not stopt on this service, and is willing to take on board provisions and such other things as shall be thought proper to be sent to the garrison, we humbly submit it whether it may not be necessary to send by this vessel a proportion of provisions as may serve the garrison till more can be shipt of for them. Autograph signatures. 2 pp. [C.O. 194, 23. No. 18; and 195, 5. pp. 450, 451.]
Feb. 28.
Westminster.
246. Copy of Privy Seal directing payment of salaries of the Commissioners and Under-Officers of the Plantation Office, due from Christmas, 1713. Endorsed, Recd. Read 13th July, 1715. Copy. 5¾ pp. [C.O. 388, 76. No. 188.]