America and West Indies: July 1667

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: July 1667', 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/pp478-490 [accessed 4 December 2024].

'America and West Indies: July 1667', 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 4, 2024, https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol5/pp478-490.

"America and West Indies: July 1667". Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 5, 1661-1668. Ed. W Noel Sainsbury(London, 1880), , British History Online. Web. 4 December 2024. https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol5/pp478-490.

July 1667

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