America and West Indies: November 1665

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 5, 1661-1668. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1880.

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'America and West Indies: November 1665', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 5, 1661-1668, ed. W Noel Sainsbury( London, 1880), British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol5/pp326-338 [accessed 13 December 2024].

'America and West Indies: November 1665', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 5, 1661-1668. Edited by W Noel Sainsbury( London, 1880), British History Online, accessed December 13, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol5/pp326-338.

"America and West Indies: November 1665". Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 5, 1661-1668. Ed. W Noel Sainsbury(London, 1880), , British History Online. Web. 13 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol5/pp326-338.

November 1665

Nov. 1. 1072. Mem. in the handwriting of John Locke. That the first payment of the rent for the Province of Carolina is to begin from the feast of All Saints 1665, and is 20 marks per annum. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXII., fly leaf at end of volume.]
Nov. 3. 1073. William Newell to Henry Muddiman. Hears from Rochelle that a ship belonging to the West India Company was arrived there from St. Christopher's, bringing certain news that the Jamaica men had taken St. Eustache from the Dutch on Aug. 12. It is but three leagues from St. Christopher's, there is but one landing place in it, where but one or two men can go up at a time to an eminent place, on the top of which there is a fort which had 450 men, furnished with powder and guns by De Ruyter ; yet 300 resolute men went and took them by force, turning out the Governor most shamefully, and all the Dutch ; it is supposed they were drunk or mad, for there was no treachery by the Governor, as the hard usage he received proves : when the Dutch have lost one or two small islands more, they will not have a foot of ground in all America. [Dom., Chas. II., Vol. CXXXVI., No. 17, Cal., p. 40.]
Nov. 6. 1074. Sam. Farmer to Sec. Lord Arlington. Is ashamed to trouble his Lordship upon every light occasion, but is now necessitated to do so by the unexampled cruelty of his keeper. Feels the rather encouraged for that Sir John Knight told him Sergeant Gyde was ordered to allow Farmer to go abroad with his keeper as formerly. Has been kept close prisoner, and not suffered to go even to church, and cannot now stir abroad without his Majesty or his Lordship's particular order ; nay he has been locked up in his chamber because he desired to learn his Lordship's pleasure in the matter. Prays for such relief as his Lordship shall be pleased to vouchsafe. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 115.]
[Nov. 15.] 1075. Petition of Sam. Farmer to the King and Council. That he has been exiled from his wife, children, and estate, and kept prisoner upwards of 20 weeks, and fears his reputation suffers in his Majesty's esteem owing to certain articles exhibited against him for things done by the whole Assembly. Is confident he can return a satisfactory answer to these articles. Was an eminent sufferer under the late usurped powers, and now owing to his long absence from England his friends are few, and his means of subsistence less. His estate in Barbadoes, on which he has 200 slaves besides Christian servants, worth 20,000l., so that it is not likely that he will fly from his estate and leave himself and his reputation utterly lost in his Majesty's disfavour, especially as he voluntarily appeared in court upon his first landing. Prays that his Majesty will not believe anything against him until he has been heard ; that for the better clearing of his innocence he may have a copy of the charges, and afterwards a speedy hearing ; and that he may be granted liberty upon bail to go to counsel and pursue his other occasions for manifesting his innocence. Indorsed, Received and read in Council, 15th Nov. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 116.]
Nov.? 1076. Petition of Sebastian Crespo, subject of his Catholic Majesty, to the King and Council. In 1664 there was taken from him in the West Indies, a ship called the St. Michell and St. Dominico, by Henry Castines, an Englishman, which was carried to Jamaica. Sir Thos. Modyford, by virtue of his Majesty's order, sent the 28th June 1664 to Cartagena to proffer the said prize ; and petitioner having transported himself for Jamaica, to take possession of said ship, found it condemned for prize in the Court of Admiralty, by which it was sold, and bought in the name of Richard Richardson and another, being in reality for said Governor, who for an inconsiderable sum bought that which was worth 40,000 pieces of eight. Petitioner with the orders and process of the business appeared before his Majesty and Council and proved his justice, and on report of Sir Wm. Turner, his Majesty was pleased to order restitution of said ship and goods to petitioner, and to grant him a letter to the said Governor, as doth appear by the annexed copies. Petitioner having transported himself to Jamaica, said Governor dispossessed him of the aforesaid orders and letter, refused him any receipt, and only proffered by Samuel Barnard, his secretary, 1,000 pieces of eight for his debt ; which petitioner refused, and is come to cast himself again at his Majesty's feet. Humbly prays that said Governor may be compelled to give satisfaction to petitioner, to the value of 4,700l., which is the sum due to him, as appears by the report of Sir Wm. Turner. Annexed,
1076 I. Order of the King in Council. On reading petition and papers of Don Antonia de Villa Vitiosa, agent of the embassage of his Catholic Majesty to this court touching the ship St. Michael and Sancto Domingo, Sebastian Crespo owner, seized in June 1664 by an English ship, Henry Castines commander, by virtue of letters of marque from Lord Windsor, Governor of Jamaica ; ordered that said petition and papers be sent to Sir Thos. Modyford, Governor of Jamaica, who is hereby required (the state of the business being as is set forth) to use his utmost endeavours for causing restitution to be made, and if it cannot be effected, to return an account of the whole matter with his opinion thereupon. Oxford, 1665, Nov. 10.
1076. II. The King to Sir Thos. Modyford. Refers above petition and papers for his examination and recommends the whole matter to him, willing him to use all possible care in the retrieving and recovery of said ship and goods, or otherwise that entire and speedy satisfaction be made to petitioners. Oxford, 1666, Jan. 17.
1076. III. Draft of preceding letter with corrections in the handwriting of Williamson. Together 4 papers. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., Nos. 117-120.]
Nov. 15.
Boston.
1077. Warrant signed by Ri. Bellingham, Governor, and John Leveret, assistant, to the keeper of the prison in Boston. To take into his custody Abraham Corbet till the next General Court of election, that he may there appear and answer for his tumultuous, seditious, and disorderly carriages. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 121.]
1665? 1078. Proposition that the Commanders of all ships bound for England coming from the Plantations should be ordered to get into the latitude of Cape Clear, 100 leagues short thereof, and from thence sail to Kinsale for intelligence, which will prevent the great charges of convoys. 1 p. Two copies. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., Nos. 122, 123.]
1665 Nov. 16.
Oxford.
1079. The King to Lord Willoughby, Governor of Barbadoes. Ships having been seized on their return from the Caribbee Islands by single capers of the Dutch, it is ordered that vessels return for the future in fleets ; such fleets to set sail from Barbadoes on the last days of March, June, and September, and call at the Caribbee Islands for other vessels waiting there. Instructions to prevent masters of vessels sailing before these seasons. The fleets to make for the ports ordered, also, for the more orderly conducting and keeping company, commanders to be appointed admirals. For the better security of Barbadoes and the other islands the forts are to be repaired, and sufficient magazines of shot and shell provided, and careful watches kept, so that they may not be surprised as they were last year. The Jamaica fleet not to sail with the others, but it would be advantageous if the Surinam fleet could fall in with the Barbadoes fleet and come home with it. To proceed with the settling of St. Eustatius and Saba, scattering the Dutch inhabitants over other Plantations, whereby their labour may be of use without danger ; and in case Tobago is still held by the Dutch to endeavour to reduce it the King's obedience. Draft, with numerous corrections, by Sir Joseph Williamson. 4 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 124.]
Nov. 16.
Oxford.
1080. Copy of the preceding. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XXIV., pp. 5-9.]
1665? 1081. Proposals by merchants and traders to the Plantations. In consequence of an order to the Governor of Barbadoes that no ships should come from thence but in fleets, and in the month of June ; that a convoy be immediately appointed for several great ships in the Downs bound for New England to fetch masts for the King's service and for other Plantations, to sail clear of the soundings where they may meet the Barbadoes fleet and other ships bound home. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 125.]
Nov. 16.
Oxford.
1082. The King to Sir Tho. Modyford, Governor of Jamaica. Having observed that many ships in their return from the West Indies have become a prey to the Dutch, chiefly through coming scattering, whereas if there were a certain time fixed for their return care might be taken to secure the coast by ships employed for that purpose ; his Majesty has thought fit to appoint seasons, viz., the 24th March, 24th June, and 24th September, at which only ships are to return from Jamaica to England and Ireland, unless employed for his Majesty's immediate service. All ships are to enter into bond to keep company and defend each other, and the Governor is directed to appoint one of the commanders admiral for the voyage, to compel any that shall be disobedient to the observance of his Majesty's commands, and to direct them that when near the coast of England, if they shall not have met any of his Majesty's ships of war in the soundings, to endeavour to touch at the first port of England for information. His Majesty cannot but notice his diligence and good order by which the Dutch Plantations of Sabia and Stacia have been reduced, and is full of hope shortly to hear of the like success against Curaao, and assures him of his gracious acceptance of that service, desiring him to go on to root the Dutch out of all places in the West Indies, and where he shall have success to transplant the greatest part of them to Jamaica or other Plantations, which may have the benefit of their industry without hazard of revolt, leaving garrisons in the places reduced, especially Curaao, if God give success. Draft with corrections in the handwriting of Williamson. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 126.]
Nov. 16.
Oxford.
1083. Copy of the preceding letter. 2 pp. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XXIV., pp. 3-5.]
1665? Nov.? 1084. The King to the Governor of Maryland. Directions as to the time of sailing and the course that ships from Maryland are to take to meet convoys, that prevention may be had against a repetition of the great losses sustained last summer in their voyage homewards ; none to sail before the 1st of April. Draft with corrections in Williamson's hand. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 126*.]
1665. Nov. 16.
Jamaica.
1085. Governor Sir Thos.Modyford to Lord Archingdale [Sec. Lord Arlington]. The greatest part of their small fleet has arrived at Statia, whereon Col. Morgan with 319 men landed, and after small opposition took the place, the good old Colonel leaping out of the boat, and being a corpulent man got a strain, and his spirit being great he pursued over earnestly the enemy on a hot day, so that he surfeited and suddenly died, to almost the loss of the whole design, but Col. Carey succeeded him, and about three weeks after sent Maj. Rich. Stevens with a small party and took Saba also. Besides other plunder they had 900 slaves, 500 are arrived at Jamaica, with many coppers and stills, to the great furtherance of this colony, being very brave knowing blacks. The distractions caused by the loss of Col. Morgan and the too easy disposition of Col. Carey, to whose more large relation he refers his Lordship. Was much troubled that the main design against Curaao was thus frustrated, and sent for the leading men of the privateers lately come in from Spanish quarters, whom he had obliged by not questioning them, and caused Major Byndlosse to hold correspondence with the old privateer, Capt. Mansfield, and to appoint a rendezvous at Blue Fields Bay, where it is calculated will be no less than 600 privateers, and they will forward the design of Curaao, which he hopes will be the King's before this letter is in his hands. Recommends his Majesty to sell the plantations at Eustatia and Sabia, which may probably produce 5,000l., to the English at St. Christopher's. The covetousness of some of the officers and soldiers, the reason of the loss of the design of Curaao. Has received the joyful news of his Highness' glorious victory over the Dutch, and will himself do all he can against that ungrateful Republic, for which purpose he endeavours to dispose and inflame the minds of privateers and town dwellers of Port Royal, already very forward to suppression of that enemy ; but please consider the militia is under no pay and the soldiers all but paper commissions, whereas in the actions of St. Jago de Cuba and Campeachy they had the countenance of the King's ships. Is glad his Majesty is pleased with his mean endeavours, having done his utmost for the advancement of his Majesty's affairs. Has suspended none of his Majesty's patents but that of Secretary (Povey's), who, leaving no fit deputy, or giving security, was dismissed by order of Council, [11 Nov. 1664, see ante p. 251], whilst that of Surveyor has expired by death, and that of Marshal, though very prejudicial, is still held by Lynch's deputy. Will govern himself according to the light he has given on the sense of his Catholic Majesty's Council at Madrid. Begs for full instructions as to what employment to give to the privateers after the suppression of the Dutch, whose name, he guesses, will ere three months expire, be forgotten in the Indies. Should not have encouraged Lynch in his design to Madrid ; he has dissembled with Modyford, but hardly thinks him so base as to advance Spanish affairs against us. The Spanish prizes have been inventoried and sold, but the privateers plunder them and hide the goods in holes and creeks, so that the present orders little avail the Spaniard, but much prejudice his Majesty and his Royal Highness in the tenths and fifteenths of prizes. Some of the privateers are well bred, and he hopes with good handling to bring them to more humanity and good order, which once obtained his Majesty hath 1,500 of the best men in the world belonging to this island. Has conferred his Majesty's blank commission of Major of the Island upon his eldest son, who the Governor sent down to bring his mother and the rest of his family, but has too much reason to believe him shipwrecked and drowned, and therefore begs it may be conferred on his second son Thomas, who has lately arrived with his mother and 100 passengers. Supposes his Majesty may save the charge of a Deputy Governor, as being altogether needless, and fears he shall never again meet with one so useful, so complacent, and loving as Col. Morgan was ; he died very poor, his great family having little to support them ; his eldest daughter is since married to Serg.-Major Bindlosse, of good estate. Suggests a member of the Council being appointed Governor in case of his own death or absence. Has enjoyed as great a measure of health as ever he did in England, but must confess the island is very subject to agues and fevers, but these are brought on by intemperance, surfeiting, and carelessness, and are common, especially with the old army officers, "who from strict saints are turned the most debauched devils." The Spaniards who trade with the Royal Company at their first coming wondered much at the sickness of our people, until they knew of the strength of their drinks, but then wondered more that they were not all dead. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 127.]
[Nov. 17.] 1086. Petition of Sam. Farmer to the King and Council. That he was by Lord Willoughby imprisoned at Barbadoes and afterwards banished without any cause shown ; and now sees it was for things done by the Assembly of which he was Speaker, which would amount but to misdemeanours and therefore bailable. Is now confined in a common gaol with felons, so that life itself is burthensome, and yet has always been an assertor of his Majesty's rights, and was Speaker of the Assembly that presented his Majesty with 4 per cent. of all the produce of the island, which draws from petitioner yearly 200l. His large estate and voluntary appearance in court upon his first landing demonstrate that he will not fly from his trial. Prays the King to take his loyalty and sufferings into consideration, to release him from restraint and vouchsafe him liberty upon bond or recognizance to go unto counsel and pursue other occasions for manifesting his innocence ; and that the sergeant's fees may be suspended until the case is heard. Indorsed, Read the 17 Nov. 1665. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 128.]
Nov.? 1087. Petition of Sam. Farmer to the King and Council. That having received a copy of the articles exhibited against him, he is now prepared to make his defence. His imprisonment among infamous persons, without privacy of bed or chamber, is very grievous and chargeable to him ; and his enforced absence from wife and family almost insupportable. But is most grieved by the hazard he runs of having his actions (always full of duty and loyalty) otherwise represented to his Majesty, as his adversary has a great advantage over petitioner, and has sent the testimonies of all such as could depose anything against petitioner. Prays for a speedy hearing, and that his Majesty will in the interim restore him from the borders of death to life, by enlargement upon his own bond, or at least with sureties, to appear whensoever commanded. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 129.]
Nov.
Jamaica.
1088. Col. Theodore Cary to Sec. Lord Arlington. Sends copy of his letter of 23 Aug. last [see ante, No. 1042]. Is sorry and indeed ashamed that he only acquainted his Lordship of the forts of Tortola and Curaao, they being the principal places that were designed for. Shall not now relate his unhappiness in not effecting what he so earnestly endeavoured, or the occasion that sullied our begun victory, having with this sent a true and perfect narrative of the whole proceedings in that voyage, by which his Majesty will see his care and pains. Still assures his Lordship that had they two of the King's small frigates, it would be an easy work to reduce and keep for his Majesty, all the forts and places the Dutch have in these parts. Incloses,
1088. I. A True and perfect Narrative by Col. Theod. Cary, declaring the proceedings in the late expedition from this island of Jamaica against the Dutch under the management of Lieut.-Gen. Edward Morgan, until his death, and afterwards by Col. Theodore Cary. On a confirmation of the report of war having been declared with Holland, Sir Thos. Modyford gave Col. Cary a commission to raise a regiment under command of Lieut.-Gen. Edward Morgan. Ere they departed most of the seamen and soldiers mutinied and would not set forward until the Lieut.-General and himself promised that their commands should not take from them any part of their plunder, which should be equally divided. Sailed on the 16th May for the Isle of Pines, where the fleet was mustered, being in all nine sail, with 71 guns and about 650 men. Capt. Maurice Williams, the Lieut.-Gen., and himself in the Speaker, of 18 guns ; Capt. John Harman in the St. John, 12 guns ; the Civilian, 16 guns, Capt. Garrett Garretson ; the Pearl, 9 guns, Capt. Robt Searle ; the Olive Branch, 6 guns, Capt. John Outlaw ; the Trueman, 6 guns, Capt. Albert Bernardson ; the Susannah, 2 guns, Capt. Nath. Cobham ; the Mayflower, 1 gun, Capt. John Bamfield ; and the galliott, 1 gun, Capt. Abrah. Malarba. Lost the Susannah and Mayflower with 60 men, and soon after the Olive Branch, Capt. Outlaw, with 96 men, who went for Virginia. Proposal of the Lieut.-General to attack Tobago, but it was resolved that Eustatia should be the first place attempted. On July 17 made for their rendezvous at Montserrat, and were assured De Ruyter had left the coast, leaving only one frigate of 14 guns about the islands. At Montserrat the Lieut.-Gen. went ashore and was met by the Governor, Maj. Nath. Reade, and was provided with some sloops for landing, but left many stragglers behind. Found they were able to land 326 men, and it was ordered that Lt.-Col. Thos. Morgan should first land with his division, and Col. Cary with his to second him. Account of their landing at Eustatia on 23rd July, the ships being under the command of Capt. Harman. The enemy seeing them pressing on gave them a small volley, retreated, and presently fled. The Lieut.-General died, not with any wound, but being ancient and corpulent, by hard marching, and extraordinary heat, fell and died, and Col. Cary took command of the party upon himself by the desire of all. Summoned Capt. Peter Adrianson to surrender, whereon the Dutch marched out of the fort, leaving 11 great guns and ammunition. Consultations as to the division of plunder, sending the Dutch off the island, and leaving the English, Scotch, and Irish, who took the oaths of allegiance to his Majesty. Reasons for not attacking St. Martin's. Refusal of the soldiers and seamen to stir until the booty gotten at Eustatia was shared, and the delay caused through the officers and soldiers not being able to agree on the manner of sharing. While this was in agitation, which took up no little time, the Mayflower arrived, which with Maj. Stevens and Capt. Jas. Walker and 48 soldiers, in all 70 men, were sent to reduce the island of Saba, four leagues from Eustatia, which surrendered on the same articles. Differences between officers and soldiers, the seamen and their captains ; the fleet came out upon the account of no purchase no pay, but the seamen and soldiers for the most part disowned any agreement but customary, and this would not please all. Recruits solicited from Col. Watts, Governor of St. Kitts, but no men could be got unless they would take Lord Willoughby's commission, "from which all our party dissented." On a muster not 250 appeared, and they grown so mutinous that they would not proceed, but on their own terms. Account of further disputes as to division of plunder. Consultation about carrying on the design for the Virgins and Curaao, when it was resolved that considering the number and their conditions, they could not reasonably proceed further, so they departed, leaving Lt.-Col. Thos. Morgan, Governor of Eustatia and Saba. Met with a great storm which disabled and scattered the ships, but most of them since arrived at Jamaica, bringing 400 negroes ; the Speaker, Pearl, and Olive Branch being still abroad. Those acquainted with the customs and manners of the privateers, and the natures of soldiers, may judge how Col. Cary passed his time amidst so great confusion as usually attends such parties, whose plunder is their pay and obedience guided by their wills. His greatest trouble was to return and not to effect what he intended when he first undertook the voyage. Account of the booty, also list of arms and ammunition, and the inhabitants sent off and remaining on the two islands. There were captured four colours, 20 guns, six barrels of powder, 192 small arms and ammunition, 942 Indians and negroes, besides horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and cotton. 320 Dutch were sent off the islands, and some, with many English, Scotch, and Irish, remained and took the oath of allegiance. Jamaica, 1665, Nov. 17. 20 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., Nos. 130, 130 I.]
Nov. 20.
Boston.
1089. Sir Robt. Carr and Samuel Mavericke to Sec. Lord Arlington. The rumour that Col. Cartwright is taken by a Dutch privateer has put them into no little confusion ; the original papers of all their transactions were with him and they fear lost, with other writings of concernment and the maps of the several Colonies. Fearing miscarriage of the accounts they have sent from time to time of their proceedings, they send the inclosed papers and this cursory recapitulation of them. Have formerly given an account of what they did in the three southern colonies and with the General Court of the Massachusetts in Boston till May 30, which they sent by Capt. Harrison ; copies of their further transactions they have sent to New York to Col. Nicolls. Proceedings concerning John Porter and his petition ; they found the General Court at Boston presumptuous and refractory and could obtain nothing from them that might be satisfactory to the King's desires. Their declaration in answer to the Commissioners' summons touching the action of Thos. Deane and others in the case of the ship Charles of Olleroon. The commission to Symonds and Danforth to go to the Eastern parts and oppose the Commissioners in their proceedings. Their proceedings on receipt of the King's letter signifying the war with the Dutch and enjoining the Commissioners to look after the fortifications will be seen by their warrants to Portsmouth and other inclosed papers. Thus far was sent by Col. Cartwright an exact account of all proceedings, as may be seen by the copy of letter they sent by him [see ante, July 26, No. 1024]. Account of what has since taken place ; the warrant sent by the General Court to the constable of Kittery, the Commissioners having then settled the Eastern colonies, beyond Piscataqua river under the King's immediate government till his pleasure was further known. The Massachusetts commission to Danforth, Lusher, and Leveret to go thither and reduce them to their Government, their petitions to the Commissioners, and Champernowne and Rishworth's letters are inclosed, as also Sir Robt. Carr's letter to Danforth, &c. Notwithstanding the General Court at Boston sent their peremptory summons to Corbet to appear before them to answer to a contempt. From hence they went to Dover to keep court ; the Eastern people were informed they would come in a hostile manner, and therefore met at Kittery to have opposed them, if they came over the river, which was supposed was one cause of their speedy return towards Boston. Desire if Col. Cartwright have escaped that he be shown this account and the inclosed papers, for his further information. Corbet committed to prison, where he still remains, and the Commissioners can receive no satisfactory answer why. Commit it to his judgment what to think of the matter. Printed in New York Documents, III., 106-108. Inclose, [N.B.The following inclosures Nos. I.-XIII., have a cover which is indorsed, These are all the material transactions in the King's Province and in the Eastward since my parting with Col. Nicolls at Boston, May 26, 1665, and Col. Cartwright at Nantucket, Aug. 1, 1665.]
1089. I. Report of the King's Commissioners to his Majesty on Duke Hamilton's petition. That no servant, agent, or planter was ever sent over to take possession upon the Patent of James Marquis of Hamilton. That the Massachusetts pretend to a part of that land by a grant from Charles I. Another part was granted to the colony of Connecticut by his Majesty, another part given by his Majesty to the colony of Rhode Island. They cannot find the 10,000 acres at the head of Sagadahock in the east, it having two streams but the head unknown, nor know they of any land Lord Gorges had there, of which the 10,000 acres were to be set out.
1089. II. Petition of John Porter, jun., of Salem a prisoner in Boston gaol, to the King's Commissioners. 1 April 1665. [Calendared, ante, No. 969.]
1089. III. Declaration of the General Court of the Massachusetts. Protesting against the legality of the King's Commissioners' warrant for protection to John Porter, jun. Also the Commissioners' reply, 23-24 May 1665. [Calendared, ante, No. 996.]
1089. IV. Commission from the General Court of Massachusetts to S. Symonds and Thos. Danforth, 2 June, and note from Symonds and Danforth to Sir Robt. Carr. 4 July 1665. [Calendared, ante, No. 1006.]
1089. V. The Massachusetts warrant to the constable of Portsmouth 12th July. Their letter to the King's Commissioners, 16th July ; the Commissioners' reply and warrant by the Council to summon Deputies for holding a special General Court. 21 July 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1020.]
1089. VI. Order of the General Court to the constable of Kittery. 1 August 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1032.]
1089. VII. The King's Commissioners commission for Justices of the Peace, in the Province of Maine. York, 23 June 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1010.]
1089. VII.* The King's Commissioners to Sec. Lord Arlington. 26 July 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1024.]
1089. VIII. Petitions of part of the inhabitants of Portsmouth and Strawberry Bank to the King's Commissioners. [Calendered, see ante No. 1015.] Also of the inhabitants of Portsmouth and Strawberry Bank, Dover, Exeter, and Hampton to the King ; and of the inhabitants of the Province of Maine to the King. 3 papers. [Calendared, see ante, inclosures Nos. I. and III. of No. 1024.]
1089. IX. Capt. Champernowne, Edw. Rishworth, and Ed. Johnson to the King's Commissioners. Aug. 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1040.]
1089. X. Edw. Rishworth to Sir Robt. Carr. Has advised the gentlemen to the Eastward that the Magistrates of the Massachusetts are come to Strawberry Bank. Hopes for the continuance of his care of them till the issue of these vexatious molestations. York, 6 Oct. 1665.
1089. XI. Sir Robt. Carr to Danforth, Lusher, and Leveret, Commissioners of the Massachusetts. Requiring them not to molest those in Strawberry Bank, Dover, and Exeter that have petitioned his Majesty for liberty until the King's pleasure be further known. Kittery, 10 Oct. 1665.
1089. XII. Summons for Abraham Corbett to appear before the General Court at Boston, 10 Oct. 1665. [Calendared, see ante, No. 1064.]
1089. XIII. Warrant to the Marshall of Dover and Portsmouth to apprehend Abrah. Corbet, 26 Oct. ; also Warrant to the keeper of the prison in Boston to take Corbett into his custody. 15 Nov. 1665. [Calendared, see ante, Nos. 1069, 1077]. Together 18 papers. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., Nos. 131, 131 I.-XIII.]
Nov. 20.
Boston.
1090. Sir Robt. Carr and Samuel Maverick to Sec. Lord Arlington. Copy of the preceding letter with inclosures Nos. IX., X., and XI. Also annexed,
Edw. Rishworth to Sir Robt. Carr. Reports from Boston that the Massachusetts authority resolve to suspend any further actings towards them until the spring, and provided then the King's pleasure be not further known and declared they will bring us in with a powder. "If that be the way of their execution there needs be no great fear of death in those wars." Hopes to hear from him before his journey to the southward. Many thanks for his great care about their preservation and peace. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., Nos. 132, 133.]
Nov. 22.
York, Maine.
1091. H. Jocelyn, F. Champernowne, E. Rishworth, and others, Justices of the Province of Maine, to Col. Nicolls at New York. The daily frowns of our displeased and discontented neighbours of the Massachusetts upon us doth occasion some to fear, others to hope for a change among us, which causes authority to be weakened, peace to be interrupted, and good order to be neglected. Humbly request Sir Robt. Carr's presence amongst them in the spring, which they doubt not will be very effectual. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 134.]
Nov. 26.
Jamaica.
1092. George Reid to [Sec. Lord Arlington]. Begs his Lordship will admit his most submissive thanks for the singular favour among so many conferred on his family, of procuring him the patent for this island from his Majesty's High Commissioners, which has been confirmed by Gov. Sir Thos. Modyford. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 135.]
Nov. 29.
York.
1093. Justices of the Province of Maine to Sir Robert Carr. Expressions of thankfulness ; must ever remain his perpetual debtors. The full appearance of the people at their last Court gave sufficient testimony of their being well satisfied with their present standing, persons of all parts generally appearing, Casco excepted, from whence came not one person. Mr. Munjoy hath not accepted his commission, from which he is now excluded. Request his further presence in the spring, his countenance would be very useful to them under these clouds of difficulty. Have presumed to solicit Col. Nicolls herein. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 136.]
Nov.
(New York.)
1094. Col. Richard Nicolls to the Duke of York. Since his Royal Highness' letter of Feb. 11, he has not been sparing of toil or charges to put these parts into a posture of defence against the Dutch, though at the same time engaged in troubles with the Indians at Fort Albany, consequently many incident charges have arisen this summer, with all which he has struggled to the utmost of all his own moneys and credit, depending upon the promised supplies, the want whereof is a general calamity, but falls most heavily upon him, who is not able to support so heavy a burden any longer. Does not value the sight of his own ruin of fortune, but his reputation lies at stake, having so often (in confidence of a supply) assured the inhabitants of the care taken for their relief, who are now left naked to the rigour of the winter. The whole trade is lost for want of shipping, but the charge of four garrisons falls upon himself. Beseeches a speedy supply before they fall to extremities. Hears that Col. Cartwright is taken at sea, by whom his Royal Highness would have received full information of the state of these parts. Knows Cartwright's return to New England is very uncertain, therefore beseeches his Royal Highness to consider some fit person to succeed Nicolls in this government. Proposes Harry Norwood, whose temper would be acceptable both to the soldiers and country. Now the most refractory republicans acknowledge themselves fully satisfied with the method of government. His resolutions are to send over a copy of the laws this winter with the alterations made at the last general assizes, which, if his Royal Highness will confirm and cause to be printed at London, the whole country will be infinitely obliged. Have had a general joy and thanksgiving for the signal victory over the Dutch and preservation of his Royal Highness' person, the very news whereof has revived their spirits and is antidote both against hunger and cold. Printed in New York Documents, III., 104. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 137.]
Nov.?
New York.
1095. [Col. Richard Nicolls] to [the Duke of York]. About 10 days past Capt. Bollen showed him a letter from Lord Berkeley and Sir G. Carteret with a grant from his Royal Highness to them for all lands west of Hudson's river ; wherein is comprehended all the improvable part of his Royal Highness' patent, and capable to receive 20 times more people than Long Island and the remaining tracts, in respect of quantity of land, sea coast, and Delaware river, fertility of soil, and fair hopes of rich mines, to the utter discouragement of any that desire to live under his Royal Highness' protection. Neither can he suppose that Lord Berkeley or Sir G. Carteret know how prejudicial such a grant would prove to his Royal Highness, but must charge it upon Capt. Scott, who was born to work mischief aimed at the same patent, and hath given out that he had injury done him by his Royal Highness ; whereupon he betrayed Lord Berkeley and Sir G. Carteret into a design of ruining his Royal Highness' territory, which he has fully completed unless his Royal Highness take further order herein. Upon this tract several new purchases are made from the Indians since Nicolls' coming, and three towns beginning. Gave it the name of Albania, lying to the west of Hudson's river, and to Long Island the name of Yorkshire, as to this place the name of New York, to comprehend all his Royal Highness' titles. Presumes to propose that Lord Berkeley and Sir G. Carteret may have 100,000 acres along the sea coast, which is a most noble tract of land, but will cost them 20,000l. before it will yield a penny, and their children's children will reap the profit. Great have been the abuses of false reports, yet hopes to give a satisfactory account by word of mouth, but at present town and country cry out they will leave their dwellings if they cannot stay Nicolls from going to Boston, such are their apprehensions of a Dutch invasion. A fragment. 2 pp. Printed in New York Documents, III., 105. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX. No. 138.]
Nov.?
New York.
1096. [Col. Richard Nicolls] to [the Duke of York]. Notwithstanding the high and mighty threats of the West India Company of Amsterdam they do not live in so much apprehension of the Dutch as in hopes of the arrival of some English ships for the supply of trade and relief of the necessities of both officers and soldiers, for whose accommodation he has been more industrious than in all other actions of his life. What he has done towards the settlement of laws Mr. Coventry will show his Royal Highness. Has formerly rendered account of the settlement of bounds between his Royal Highness and the patent of Connecticut, made by his Majesty's Commissioners and the Governor and Council of Connecticut, wherein five towns were relinquished to Connecticut by virtue of their precedent grant from his Majesty, which determination was of great good consequence in all the colonies, though to the diminution of his Royal Highness' bounds ; so that east of New York and Hudson's river nothing considerable remains to his Royal Highness except Long Island, and about 20 miles from any part of Hudson's river. Looks therefore upon all the rest as empty names and places possessed 40 years by former grants, and of no consequence to his Royal Highness, except all New England could be brought to submit to his Royal Highness' patent. The people of Long Island are very poor, but from this town is the great hope of all the benefit which can arise to his Royal Highness, and if his former proposals meet with a good answer, he can assure his Royal Highness that within five years the staple of America will be drawn hither, of which the brethren of Boston are very sensible. Yet such is the mean condition of this town (which is the best of all his Majesty's towns in America) that not one soldier has lain in a pair of sheets or on any bed but canvas and straw, which Nicolls beseeches may be supplied out of the King's stores, as Dunkerque was and Tangier is. A fragment. Printed in New York Documents, III., 106. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XIX., No. 139.]