|
1675–6.
Barbadoes. |
773. Six Acts of the Island of Barbadoes, viz.:—An Act appointing
how the testimony of people of the Hebrew nation shall be admitted
in all courts and causes; passed 18th Feb. 1674(–5). An Act for
taking off the eighty days after execution for furtue contracts;
passed 25th March 1675. An Act for regulating the gauge of sugar
cask; passed 15th April 1675. |
| 1676. |
An Act to prevent the people called Quakers from bringing
negroes to their meeting; passed 21st April 1676. An Act to
prevent the inconveniences upon the inhabitants of this Island by
forestallers, ingrossers, and regrators; passed 29th Nov. 1676.
An Act to explain a clause in the Act for establishing the Courts
of Common Pleas within this Island; passed 29th Nov. 1676.
Printed. Before Sir Jonathan Atkin's administration the Governors alone signed the Acts, but from the time of this Governor
the Clerks of the Council and Assembly attested the approbation of
the Legislative Body. See footnote. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XV.,
pp. 94–100.] |
Jan. 8.
Whitehall. |
774. Order of the King in Council. Approving Report of the Lords
of Trade and Plantations of 23rd December last (see ante, No. 756),
and authorizing Secretary Coventry to instruct Lord Berkeley,
Ambassador Extratordinary in France, to present a memorial to the
effect of what is therein proposed in order to obtain powers for determining the differences of St. Christopher's in this place, and with
all diligence to solicit the despatch thereof. 4 pp. Two copies.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVI., Nos. 1, 2; also Col. Entry Bks.,
Vol. XLVI., pp. 30–36, and Vol. XCVI., pp. 32–38.] |
| Jan. 8. |
775. Order of the King in Council. On representation of Lords
of Trade and Plantations the Lord Treasurer acquainted his
Majesty that, notwithstanding the many difficulties he had met
with in the procurement of money, yet in obdience to an order
of this Board of 18th June last (see ante, No. 597), appointing
6,656l. 14s. to be paid to Colonel Stapleton and the two companies,
the pay of two years, his Lordship had now ready half that sum
which should be furnished in ten or twelve days when the ships
would be ready to depart, and would furnish the residue between
Lady Day and Midsummer next. And to establish a settled fund
for support of that Island in the furture, and that the companies be
made complete, his Lordship proposed to make the duty of 4½ per
cent. to bear not only the charge of that Island but of the rest,
yet because the farmers of said duty pretended to defalcations and
difficulties appeared in the settlement of their accounts, he would
very speedily call them before him, and then pray his Majesty's
presence in order to a more solemn determination of the same.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVI., No. 3; also Col. Entry Bks., Vol.
XLVI., pp. 37, 38, and Vol. XCVI., pp. 38, 39.] |
| Jan. 9. |
776. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor-General. To prepare
a Bill for the King's signature to pass the Great Seal containing a
grant to Ralph Wyat of the office of Clerk of the Market of
St. Michael's Bridgetown, Barbadoes, during pleasure to execute
the same by himself or deputy, with all fees, profits, and advantages
thereunto belonging. [Col. Entry Book. Vol. CX., p. 81.] |
| Jan. 10. |
777. Sir Robert Southwell to Secretary Coventry. Encloses the
Order in Council of 8th instant (see ante, No. 774), directing Lord
Berkeley to solicit powers for the French Minister here to determine the disputes of St. Christopher's in this place, and it may
be proper to say that he should not enter further into the business
than concerns the obtaining said powers. Conceives Sir William
Lockhart would have had a pretty hard tug of it if they had told
him he came to ask more than was before by his Majesty's
commands demanded by memorial from Mons. Colbert in London,
"and I know not how the Lords will be well able to answer it
here unless a thing were done which is not probable, my best
hope is that the paper may be lost or mislaid, or that Mons. Colbert
may be out of the way." Also encloses copy of Sir William Lockhart's memorial which he conceives was but part of a larger
memorial that extended to the state of commerce between the two
kingdoms in general, but Mr. Angier will be there able to inform
his Excellency. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVI., p. 37.] Encloses, |
|
778. i. Memorial of Sir William Lockbart, Ambassador from the
King of Great Britain, for the restitution of St. Christopher's in accordance with the 7th Article of the Treaty
of Breda. Endorsed, "Rec. 13 Jan. 1676." [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVI., No. 4.] |
| Jan. 10. |
778. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. That Sir R.
Southwell gave Secretary Coventry this day the Order in Council
touching Lord Berkeley pressing in France for powers to have the
matter of St. Christopher's treated here, and also a copy of Sir
William Lockhart's memorial about the same business (see preceding
letter). 'Tis obserable Sir William Lockhart takes a method of
exposing many grievances in the body of his memorial, yet prays
for few remedies in the conclusion. If Sir Charles Wheler's proceedings were valid that memorial seemed all we could demand;
but if invalid, and the demands fit to be enlarged, then the French
will call for reparation against Sir Charles Wheler. Sir Charles
did two things in St. Christopher's: 1st, make an absolute accord
with M. de Baas in many points; 2nd, he made a statement of
those difficult points upon which he and De Baas could not agree,
and they were referred to the decision of the two Kings. Yet
Sir Charles has this to say in his own vindication that these were
not made final and conclusive by him, because in the counterpart
of the agreement signed by him there was added a clause that all
these matters were first to be submitted to the good pleasure of
the King and his ministers, that is I suppose not to be referred
to a new award if they were thought to be already determined or
determinable by the Treaty of Breda. Memorandum showing what
is contained in the report to the King (see ante, No. 756), and
insisted on in the memorial of Sir W. Lockhart but when a power
shall come from France to treat this business here then will it
be fit to see in the first place what proofs from persons and papers
are ready to vouch and justify the demands which are mentioned
in Mr. Slingesby's draft. Lieutenant Greatbach says that the
English now in possession in St. Christopher's were most of them
restored upon very hard terms, as namely by payment of the price
mentioned in the contract and giving allowance for meliorations,
which is but an ill precedent. Memorandum.—That for the English
who did not put in their claims in St. Christopher's no care is
now to be taken, forasmuch as Colonel Stapleton and the Council of
St. Christopher's thought fit to dispose of such lands, they lying
waste, they are given to industrious persons who have since
improved them. Memorandum on 17th Jan.—I (Sir R. South well)
received from Mr. Angier at Paris all the papers Sir Wm. Lockhart
had with him touching the business of St. Christopher's. [Col. Entry
Bk., Vol CIV., pp. 57–59.] |
| [Jan. 10.] |
779. Petition of several merchants of London adventures to
the Caribbee Islands to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Testify
to the courage and prudence of Colonel Philip Warner, Governor of
Antigua, a man of great loyalty, and to the forbearance and barbarous conduct of the Indians of Dominica who have often
attempted the ruin of the plantation chiefly by the treacherous
contrivance of an Indian named Warner; that Colonel Stapleton on
the address of the Council and Assembly of Antigua commissions
Colonel Warner to raise soldiers and go to Dominica to destroy those
barbarous savages who by surprise, "it not being otherwise to be
done," said Indian Warner and several savages were killed for
which Colonel Philip Warner stands ordered to be tried at Barbadoes
which petitioners fear will be a great encouragement to those infidels,
ruin to Colonel Warner his wife and nine children, and an obsolute
overthrow of Antigua and the trade of petitioners to that Colony.
Pray their Lordships to present this petition to his Majesty and move
him to enlarge Colonel Warner, or appoint his trial in England or in
Nevis or any of the Leeward Isles. Signed by Bastian Bayer and
twelve others. Endorsed: "Read. from his brother Sir Thos.
Warner, 10 Jan. 1676. Read 10 Jan. 1675–76."[Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVI., No. 5.] |
Jan. 11.
Whitehall |
780. The King to the Royal African Company and four other
Merchant Companies. His Majesty having for the encouragement
of the art of navigation thought fit by Letters Patent of 19th
August 1673 to establish and endow a foundation within Christ's
Hospital for 40 poor boys therein to be instructed in the art of
navigation and the whole science of arithmetic, and reflecting on
the proof which through the industry and ability of John Leeke,
the first Master, has been given of the effects of his bounty, in the
extraordinary proficiency of 15 of the children first chosen into the
said school, as upon strict examination by the Master and Wardens
of the Trinity House of Deptford Strand has been largely repre
sented to his Majesty, has, for the encouragement of able and sober
Masters to entertain the said children as apprentices, granted to the
Governors of the said Hospital for ever by Letters Patents now
passing an allowance of common seaman's pay, being 19s. per lunar
month, to be given for three years to each master who shall take
one of the said children as apprentice. And his Majesty most
effectually recommends to them the promotion of this work as often
as they shall he applied to by the Governors of the said Hospital
on that behalf, as a matter well pleasing to God and profitable
to the public. 2½ pp. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XLII.,
pp. 20–22.] |
| Jan. 12. |
781. Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson to Lord Vaugham, Governor of Jamaica. Recommends to his favour and protection the
bearer Mr. Elletson, a barrister-at-law and of good esteem in his
profession, who goes to better his fortune in a climate where he hopes
there may be more causes or at least fewer lawyers than in England.
[Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XCIII., p. 146.] |
Jan. 13.
Whitehall. |
782. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. Three
sheets presented to their Lordships being extracts of all the papers
of the late Council of Plantations relating to the Leeward Isles
under the heads following:—1, An account of the Leeward Isles
in general; 2, Points relating to the security and trade of same;
3, The defence and trade of St. Christopher's. Out of all which
papers several points were selected and Sir R. Southwell commanded
to put those points together and send them in a letter to Captain
Gorges, that he and such others who had knowledge of those parts
and of what was necessary might either write their opinions thereon
or attend their Lordships (see No). Sir Charles Wheler's letter
of 7th July 1675 (see ante, No. 618) was also presented, which contains: 1, Account of the Leeward Isles in general above referred
to; 2, Points relating to the defence and security of same are also
contained in Sir Charles's letter above mentioned and in various
letters from Colonel Stapleton, dated in 1672 already calendared;
and 3, The defence and trade of St. Christopher's is the paper of
Lieutenant Greatbach, abstracted below [annexed No. II.]. Further
"points relating to the defence, trade, and security, of the Leeward
Islands" are contained in several letters from Sir Charles Wheler
and Colonel Stapleton, dated 1672 to 1675 already abstracted under
their respective dates. Annexed,— |
|
782. i. Extract of several points relating to the defence and
security of St. Christopher's. |
|
782. ii. Lieutenant Greatbach's proposals concerning St. Christopher's. To build a fort at Cleverley Hill and leave a
platform of four guns at Sandy Point. Account of guns
and ammunition in the stores. The planters have generally
fire-arms. The French supply their planters with powder
and shot, but ours have to buy their own. The French
soldiers are well paid, ours have four years' pay due to them,
and the French can bring into the field 400 or 500 men
more than we can. Necessary to have a small man-ofwar in time of peace. [Col. Papers Vol. XXXVI.,
Nos. 6, 7; Col. Entry Bks., Vol. XLVI., pp. 39–48, and
Vol. CIV., pp. 59, 60.] |
| Jan. 13. |
783. "Minutes concerning Religion and the security of St.
Christopher's." The Lords of Trade and Plantations having heard
the state of the Leeward Islands as to trade and defence out of
three several papers, have reduced their thoughts to the heads
following in order to prepare a report for the better defence of
St. Christopher's and the good of the other plantations:—1 st. About
the state of religion in those parts and the want of ministers, when
fit proposals can be presented that the bishop of London be discoursed withall to put some better regulation to this great and
shameful neglect. Mem.—Touching the christening of negroes.
2ndly. Their Lordships hold it absolutely necessary to have the
two companies completed to their complement of 80 men in each,
and that there be a certain fund for their pay, and whether all the
present soldiers be made planters as Sir Charles Wheler proposes,
and two new full companies from Barbadoes or elsewhere raised
left for consideration. Also about sending off malefactors condemned to transportation till the island be reasonably stored; also,
as Sir Charles proposes, if poor debtors in prison go and serve
for four years as there is so great a necessity of white servants.
3rdly. Supply of ordnance, arms, and ammunition. A fifth-rate
frigate. A Court of Admiralty. The building a governor's house.
Forts. The harbour of Antigua. Stores for Nevis, and about the
three islands, Statia, &c. (Saba and Tortola). 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVI., No. 8.] |
| Jan. 15. |
784. [Sir Robert Southwell] to Captain Gorges. The Lords of
Trade and Plantations, being very solicitous for the good of the
Leeward islands, have debated several points:—1st, upon advice
from Colonel Stapleton that there were some ministers and schoolmasters in Nevis but none in the rest of the leeward Islands, their
Lordships thought it a very shameful neglect, and are resolved to
procure some redress. The bishop of London is well-disposed to
send able men to those parts, with assurance of good preferment
at their return; is commanded to ask him how this good work may
most properly be promoted who can say much in the matter
himself, and to consult with those who know most to frame a
proposal how many ministers are necessary, how to be qualified
for those parts, and their subsistence, and lastly, to give his
thoughts on the point of christening negroes, and what the French
and other nations practice in this particular. Advantages of
sending out good ministers. 2ndly. As to the defence of St.
Christopher's; completing the two companies, and establishing a
fund for their constant pay. Describes Sir Charles Wheler's and
Colonel Stapelton's proposals on this matter. 3rdly. It is proposed,
for the better filling that island with white men, that malefactors
be transported thither, and Sir Chas. Wheler adds debtors in gaol
willing to go if their debts were paid, and they would give
assurance of their service to planters. 4thly. Also for a supply to
be sent of ordnance, arms, and ammunition; and 5thly. That
a fifth-rate frigate attend those parts, and the Governor have
power to erect a Court of Admiralty. Is told Mr. Scutt is
acquainted with those parts, but he knows best who is. [Col.
Entry Bks., Vol. XLVI., pp. 49–51, and Vol. CIV., pp. 59–61.] |
| [Jan. 15]. |
785. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. Ordered,
that a particular state be made of the condition of the three islands,
Statia, Saba, and Tortola, taken by Colonel Stapleton from the Dutch
in this last war, and though to be restored, the Dutch demand them
not for fear the French should immediately take them out of their
hands. "The question therefore that arises seems to be whether the
title of the Dutch be not weakened for want of their making
claim, and whether they are to have these islands whenever they
call, notwithstanding the improvements which may be made upon
them during our possession." State of these islands. Lord Willoughby's account in his letter of 9th July 1668 (see No. 1778 in
a previous volume of this Calendar) is recited. Captain Gorges, Lieutenant Greatbach, Mr. Freeman, and other planters of the Leeward
Isles inform these islands were first planted by the Dutch, but
taken by the English and retaken by the French and Dutch till
taken by Colonel Stapleton. Statia about five miles in compass, but
Saba a mere rock. It would be most pernicious to the English
if possessed by the Dutch in point of defrauding the trade, but the
French, in point of power by their nearness to St. Christopher's,
would be of great annoyance. Statia the most valuable; Tortola of
no value at all. Refers to Sir Charles Wheler's account of Statia
(St. Eustatius) in his letter of 14th Dec. 1672 (see No. 987 in
previous volume of this Calendar) and Colonel Stapleton's letter of
13th July 1672 (ibid., No. 891), with account of his taking possession of these three islands, and his proceedings in consequence.
That Statia was pretty considerable, and had a better fort than
any of the English islands there, where he had left 120 armed men
and 17 great guns, and upon Saba 40 armed men. |
|
Their Lordships entered into debate about the obligation on
Governors to return home bonds according to the acts of navigation,
and commanded that this point should enter as an instruction into
all the circular letters. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. CIV., pp. 61, 62, and
Vol. XLVI., pp. 52, 53.] |
Jan. 17.
Nevis |
786. Governor Stapleton to Lords of Trade and Plantations.
Refers to his letter of 20th Dec. last (see ante, No. 748) in justification
of his Deputy-Governor of Antigua, who he understands to be a
prisoner for his actings against the Caribbee Indians, ever perfidious
to the English, occasioned by the deposition of William Hamlin,
which Colonel Stapleton shows to be very erroneous for certain given
reasons. The fact was committed on shore, and Hamlin master
of a sloop was on board, and Indian Warner was killed on shore.
Hamlin is a fellow of an evil life, and dare not return to Plymouth,
and has since run away to Jamaica, and is now master in a Dutch
privateer, and has chased and fired on an English boat. Prays
their Lordships to consider the error of the deposition, and how
unfortunate and dangerous is the condition of any man that bears
command if he must be ruined in his fortune by imprisonment by
such malicious informations. Urges in Colonel Warner's behalf, if he
has erred in the form of fair fighting and has used stratagem
to destroy a skulking heathen enemy, it is not without precedent
of all nations who have settled these parts, and in all warlike
Christian expeditions the like is in use at this day, and blowing
up each other in mines, and destroying one another with trains of
gunpowder without giving any notice. They beat up quarters,
burn houses, whether the adverse party be armed or naked,
awake or asleep, the actors rather applauded than punished.
Endorsed, "Rec. and read, 14 April 1676." [Col. Papers, Vol.
XXXVI., No. 9; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVI., pp.
91–93.] |
| (Jan. 19.) |
787. Petition of divers of his Majesty's subjects trading to the
ports of Europe, and also into his Majesty's dominions in America,
to the King. Complain that of late the inhabitants of New
England, not regarding the Navigation Acts, trade directly with
their own ships to most parts of Europe, and encourage stranges
to trade with them, whereby all sorts of merchandise of the
produce of Europe are imported directly into New England, and
thence carried to all the other of the King's dominions in America,
and sold at far cheaper rates than any that can be sent from hence,
and that they take in exchange the commodities of the Plantations
which are transported to Europe without coming to England, so
that New England is become the great mart and staple, by which
means the navigation of the kingdom is greatly prejudiced, the
King's revenue inexpressibly impaired, the price of home and
foreign commodities lessened, trade decreased, and the King's
subjects much impoverished. Implore his Majesty to take the
whole matter into consideration, and that the New England people
may be reduced or compelled to trade according to the laws
prescribed. 28 signatures. Endorsed, "Received 19 Jan. 1675/6,
read 21, referred for remedy to the Committee, read at the
Committee 6 April 1676." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVI.,
No. 10.] |
|
788. Copy of preceding, with minute that it was read 28th
January 1675–76, and their Lordships resolved to ask the opinion
of the Attorney-General thereupon. Annexed, |
|
788. i. Lords of Trade and Plantations to the Attorney-General.
Whether by the Act of 25th of the King a ship that lades
the commodities there enumerated and pays the duty
there imposed, by declaring themselves bound to another
of his Majesty's plantations, be not exempted from any
other bonds, and at free liberty to carry such commodities
to what part of the world they please. 5 pp. [Col.
Entry Bks., Vol. LX., pp. 85–90, and Vol. XCVII.,
p. 28.] |
| Jan. 21. |
789. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations Ordered,
that inquiries be made concerning the authority of the Bishop of
London over foreign plantations, for which the Charters of Virginia
and New England are referred to, most probably about 1629, when
Bishop Laud was in chief authority. Great debate on the
merchants' petition complaining of the New England trade; consideration deferred. Ordered, that some few lines be put in the
letter to be sent to New England, mentioning the great neglect of
those people of Boston whosoever answered his Majesty's letter of
April 1666, with such a turn by laying the want of earlier notice
thereof partly on the public impediments of war, partly in the
neglect of prosecution in the parties concerned, so as may reprehend
the fault in them, and not draw part thereof on their Lordships'
Committee. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIV., pp. 63, 64.] |
| Jan. 21. |
790. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. Having
ordered a duplicate of the circular letters sent to Lord Vaughan
and Sir Jonathan Atkins to be sent also an additional letter, their
Lordships altered the draft relating to the oaths for execution of
the Acts of trade, and directed the inspection of the Governor's
commissions and instructions on that point. Sir Robert Southwell
presented a scheme of several heads sent by the late Council to
some of the Governors which are to be taken in when letters are
next written. Ordered also that an article be entered for keeping
due account of all christenings, burials, &c., and that all Governors
send home maps of their plantations. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol.
CIV., pp. 63, 64.] |
| Jan. 21. |
791. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. Captain
Gorges, Sir James Russell, Mr. Freeman, and Lieutenant Greatbach
attended on the letter sent to Captain Gorges, 15th instant (see
ante, No. 784), and all the points therein being debated their
Lordships settled upon eight points in relation to St. Christopher's,
and ordered a report to be made comprehending the same (see
No. 808.) |
|
Mem.—Mr. Huffam, a Minister of Nevis, lies now at Spring
Garden at Southwark, and is known to Mr. Freeman. Note the
list of what arms are wanting in Nevis; about the harbour of
Antigua, which is a furlong over and the forts built thereon by
Colonel Stapleton, but without guns. Also touching war with the
Indians of Dominica, and about the islands of Statia, Saba, and
Tortola. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. CIV., pp. 64, 65, and Vol. XLVI.,
p. 54.] |
Jan. 23.
Whitehall. |
792. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. Letter
read from Sir Jonathan Atkins, dated at Barbadoes 21st November
/ 1st December 1675 (? 20th/30th November, see ante, No. 711),
praying for more time to answer the particulars of their Lordships'
circular letter. A new letter to be prepared telling him that
whereas he refers for information to his letter to Secretary
Coventry, their Lordships expect that he himself would make a
narrative and deduction of all things since the time of his
government there. [Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV., p. 67.] |
Jan 23.
St. Jago de la Vega. |
793. Journal of the Council of Jamaica. Present: Governor
Lord Vaughan, Sir Henry Morgan, Colonels John Coope, Charles
Whitfield, and Anthony Collier, Lieutenant-Colonels John Bynd
losse, and Thomas Fuller and John White. His Excellency communicated the condition of the parish of St. Maryes, and that the
rebellious negroes were not yet reduced; the Council recommend
the raising twenty good men to be kept in pay, at least two months,
or until said negroes be subdued, that every parish make a contribution, and Colonel Coope be desired to see the men immediately
raised and put under the command of Lieutenant Collet, with an
assurance that besides their pay they shall receive for the taking
and killing of the negro called Peter 20l. sterling, for the negro
named Scanderberg 15l., for the negro called Doctor 15l., and for
all the rest of the rebellious party 5l. per head, according to the
Act; shoes, bread, arms, and ammunition to be advanced out of the
Treasury, and repaid from the several parishes as per the rates
stated, viz., eleven parishes to contribute 245l. Six Spanish
negroes to be sent over to assist with their lances. Proclamations
of the Governor prohibiting the selling arms or ammunition to any
negro slave without a ticket from his master, or against harbouring,
concealing, or conniving at any of the rebellious negroes under
severe penalties. Report by Sir Henry Morgan of "unhandsome
and misbeseeming words and carriage," which Colonel William
Ivey had expressed to the Governor in his own house, and prays
that Colonel Ivey be ordered to appear before the Council at their
next mceting. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXV., pp. 499–453.] |
Jan. 26.
St. Jago de la Vega. |
794. Peter Beckford to Secretary Williamson. Has received
his of 16th July. Do not find ourselves more than 5,000 fighting
men, and about double the number of women and children, and
supposes treble the number of negroes. The island daily increases
in planting considerably, but by means of the Royal African Company's negroes being at too high rates, they are in continual want
of them, so that less sugar is made, and the King's revenue lessened.
Arrival of a French man-of-war, who took a "Spaniard" (vessel),
their share in money about 80l. a man, besides silks and other rich
goods. Port Morant not being fortified our Government could do
nothing, but none traded with the Frenchman; my Lord uses all
possible means to keep peace with the Spaniards, though they are
not so careful on their parts, but they have not been very
troublesome lately to our logwood men; if that trade were
encouraged it would employ all our privateers, who otherwise will
be committing piracies upon the Spaniards for they cannot work.
The Spanish fleet at the Havanna and will not sail till end of
February, and carry home very great treasure. 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVI., No. 11.] |
Jan. 28.
Whitehall. |
795. The Duke of York to Major Andros. Approves of his demand
of all the land west of the Connecticut River, as comprised within
their Letters Patent, but is not willing he should proceed further,
in regard he hopes hereafter for a more convenient means of settling
the boundaries, approves of the limitation of Connecticut for the
present to a distance of 20 miles from Hudson's river. Cannot but
suspect an assembly would be of dangerous consequences, nothing
being more known than the aptness of such bodies to assume
privileges destructive to the peace of the Government; does not
see any use of them which is not as well provided for while the
Governor and Council govern according to laws established; however, if he continues of the same opinion, will be ready to consider
of any proposals to that purpose. Approves of his taking off the
2 per cent. from goods of America brought into his port, supposing
nothing of this kind is to remain beyond the three years just
designed. Wishes for a more exact account of the revenue and
charge, he having put him in hopes that the Government will be
(at least) able to support itself and save the burthen it has been
hitherto. Recommends Captain Salisbury, the bearer of the letter.
1 p. Printed in New York Documents III., 235. [Col. Entry
Book, Vol, LXX., p. 20b.] |
Jan. 28.
St. James'. |
796. Sir John Werden to Major Andros. Hopes the scarcity of
provisions (mentioned in his letter of the 8th instant) will be no
longer so, in regard of taking off of the duty on salt. Whilst the
Navigation Act stands in the way, it cannot be obtained to have
ships trade directly from Holland to his parts, and his other proposition, to have ships cleared at the out ports without being
strictly searched, is so much opposed by the customers that he
looks upon it as wholly impracticable. Is not able to judge of his
raising the value of pieces of 8 to 6s., but Mr. Delavall thinks they
will bear 6s. 6d.; supposes he remembers that the raising of money
above its intrinsic value in a country is a certain way of debasing
its commodities and therefore a kind of impoverishing it. Caveats
will be entered to prevent any new grants to Connecticut till his
Royal Highness be heard. In answer to the allegation that the
Duke is entitled to all that the Dutch had in those parts and that
Connecticut Patent is so uncertainly bounded that it may as well
extend as far as Virginia as to what they now claim, it is said to
be proved that they had possession of all or most they now enjoy
before the Dutch were expelled from New York, and that their
patent must be void wholly, if it did not entitle them to the very
bowels of their country, and that the King's Commissioners in 1664
settled the boundaries which were assented to by the Duke's Lieutenant-Governor. The Duke on the whole is wishing things should
stand as they are at present, but is not sorry the claim is revived,
because possibly some good use may be hereafter made of it. The
Dutch Ambassador, Mr. Van Beningen, has put in a memorial that
the Dutch complain that the Governor imposes the oaths of
allegiance and fidelity, and will not declare (as the late Governor
did and the articles of surrender to Colonel Nicolls require) that
they should not be obliged to bear arms against the Hollanders;
he prayed that they might have the oaths in as large a sense as
was agreed or else leave to transport themselves and their estates
elsewhere. Answered that he did not know of any such declaration
under the hand of any preceding Governor, and the only article of
surrender of the kind says they shall not be pressed to serve in
war against any nation whatsoever, which was directed against
pressing (as in the navy in England) and not to exempt inhabitants
from bearing part in the common defence; that anyone might withdraw
himself and estates freely. Reminds him that it is the Duke's
intention to have all persons treated with all possible humanity
and gentleness. Knows nothing like a project that he is fonder of
than that of setting up a fishery in Long Island, both for the
number of hands and shipping it will employ, and the concourse of
people it may draw. The value of the timber in the Castle frigate
was 400l., so that reckoning the cargo about 1,300l., the charge for
wages 800l. and victualling 500l., the Duke was about 2,200l. out
of purse by the expedition for the repossessing New York, which
he would be heartily glad to see in a fair way of being reimbursed
to him. He will do well to look always upon the Duke's territory
as bounded northwards by Canada, and when any occasion shall
be to take out a new patent, care will be had of fixing the northern
limit; may say the like of Delaware;wishes the distinct marks
and boundaries of those countries to be sent, and an account of
what towns or territories on the west of Connecticut river were
actually under the government of Connecticut in April 1662 (the
date of their patent). 8 pp. Printed in New York Documents III.,
236–238. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXX., p. 21.] |
| Jan. 28. |
797. Journals of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. The
merchants' petition read complaining of the trade in New England,
and the report of the Commissioners of Customs. Ordered, that a
letter be written to the Attorney-General for his opinion in the
matter. Inquire whether the Commissioners of London have any
under officers in New England, which yet seems not probable,
because these grow none of the commodities enumerated in the
25th Car. II. Proposed to take into consideration when they have
leisure the value of coins in the plantations, being told that in New
England they make money which is alloyed a fourth part to that
of England, and that the English 9d. goes for a shilling. Mr. Mason
called in to explain the scope of the afore-mentioned petition and
how he understood the meaning of the Acts as to the liberty of the
trade in that point which is referred to Mr. Attorney. [Col. Entry
Book, Vol. CIV., pp. 67, 68.] |
Jan. 28.
Council Chamber. |
798. Sir Robert Southwell to Sir William Jones, Attorney-General.
The Lords of Trade and Plantations desire his opinion on a clause
in the Act of 25 Car. II. for better severing the Plantation trade
as to the bonds to be given by ships bound to the Plantations.
With the Attorney-General's opinion annexed. Endorsed. "8 Feb
1676. Read 6 April 1676." 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVI.,
No. 12.] |
Jan 28.
Jamaica |
799. Governor Lord Vaughan to Lords of Trade and Plantations.
Received their letter of 11th August [see ante, No. 650] on 29th December last and sends answers to the several heads their Lordships
directed. Understands that the body of laws he sent to Secretary
Coventry [see ante, No. 538] lie before their Lordships. Hopes
they will be approved and his Majesty's assent given to them. The
sooner they are returned the better for encouraging people to come
when they know the laws they shall be governed by, besides he is
tied by his instructions not to re-enact any. Could not possibly
get an exact number of the people but has given orders for doing so,
there has never yet been any true account kept, all sent home only
by guess. Trade and planting considerably improved, the island
exceedingly helpful and the children born in it live and are very
prosperous, so that the "Croyolians" and natives will in a few years
make a great people. Those who removed from Surinam have
proved a considerable addition to us, most of them well settled and
exceedingly pleased with the Island. Encloses the last six months'
account of his Majesty's revenue. Has given Secretary Conventry
an account of the fatal loss of his Majesty's stores and how it
happened. That he had issued proclamations for liberty of conscience and to call in the privateers for forbidding his Majesty's
subjects to serve against his Majesty's allies. Has also stated the
true state of our logwood cutting at Cape Catoche and how many
interests of this place depend upon it; awaits orders and directions
concerning it. A good body of laws await his Majesty's confirmation. Account of their losses and injuries sustained by the
Spaniards sent to the Havannah, but a very imperfect answer
received. Will, however, be very careful in observing the peace,
but the Spaniard's jealousies and fears are so great they have
never kept that correspondence with us the treaty requires. Only
one fort at San Domingo in Hispaniola few people and very poor,
correspondence with them very difficult. The westward part
chiefly possessed by French, they have several plantations and live
chiefly on tobacco and hunting, the number not so great as four or
five years ago. It is feared they may be masters of the whole
island at least. Account of Cuba and the Havanna. Hears that
some of the Spanish Governors have received licenses to buy
negroes, if so, it will be a good opportunity to endeavour to make
a contract with them which would contribute to the interest of
England and this island. Encloses, |
|
799. i. Account of the revenue at Jamaica from March to September 1675. Total, 754l. 7s. 3d. Also the contingent
charges of the Treasury. "Rec. 8 May 1676." 2 pp.
[Col.Papers, Vol. XXXVI.,Nos. 13,131.; also Col. Entry
Bk., Vol. XXIX., pp. 32–40.] |
Jan. 28.
Jamaica. |
800. An account of the present state and condition of His
Majesty's Island of Jamaica under the command of his Excellency
John Lord Vaughan, Captain-General and Chief Governor of the
said Island, this 1st day of January 1676. The situation and commodities of the Island. The laws and rules of Government. The
officers, Civil, Ecclesiastical, and Military. The Island divided into
15 parishes, which are named. A Supreme Court of Judicature
held at St. Jago de la Vega every three months, consisting of a
Chief Justice and four Assistant Judges, a Clerk, Marshal, and
Crier. Mrs. (? sic.) Clongh, of the Inner Temple, has a patent for
the Clerk's place. Commission and Instructions for Sir Thomas
Modyford to be Chief Justice. The Orders and Rules for the
Supreme Court at St. Jago. The parishes of the Island make several
precincts or countries, in each of which are Courts of Common Pleas
and Sessions. Names of the Judge of Common Pleas and his assistants, with their Commissions, Instructions, and Orders and Rules of
procedure. Names of the Justices of the Peace, with their Commission. The precincts, with names of Judges and Justices. Commission of the Attorney-General Edmund Ducke, Esq. The offices
of Secretary and Provost Marshal. His Majesty has favoured the
Island with a mace, brought over by Lord Windsor, and carried
before the Governor on solemn occasions; there are also a broad
seal, and two Masters in Chancery. Thirty acres of land ordered
by His Majesty to be given to every one that comes to settle;
survey and tenure. Officers belonging to the Court of Chancery.
Surveyors commissioned by the Governor; their Instructions. A
Court of Admiralty established at Port Royal, consisting of Sir
Henry Morgan and two Assistants, with various officers. The
Governor is Judge of the Prerogative Court, and as Ordinary
presents all that are qualified for the Ministry; whose maintenance
is now appointed by the Assembly, so that they are not left to the
mercy of their parishes as formerly. His Majesty's revenue is but
small, and arises from quit-rents, fines, forfeitures, and escheats;
the land granted in Sir Thomas Modyford's times pays 2s. 6d. per
100 acres, and that granted by Sir Thomas Lynch ½d. per acre.
John Crompton appointed to receive the quit-rents; his Commission and Instructions. Edmund Ducke, Esq., for the collection
of fines and escheats; his Commission. Reginald Willson, to
collect duties raised by an Act of the Government on drink, sugar,
indigo, ginger, and cocoa; his Commission and Instructions. Thomas
Martin's Patent. Samuel Bernard appointed Treasurer to receive
accounts from these officers of the revenue; his Commission. Sir
Henry Morgan is also commissioned by His Majesty to be
Lieutenant-General; his Orders and Instructions. Seven regiments
of foot and one of horse. Names of the parishes in which they are
raised, and of their commanding officers, with their Instructions.
No fortifications in the Island, but at Port Royal, where there is
a castle with 40 guns, called Fort Charles, a platform lately built
at Bonham's Point with 13 guns, named Fort James, and a good
line nearly finished which cuts off the point from the mainland,
to these belong a Captain, Colonel Theodore Cary, who has
6s. per diem, and four matrosses, with 1s. 6d. per diem each,
who are the only soldiers in pay in the Island. Trade and
commerce of the Island; trade only with England; a naval
officer at Port Royal to see that the Acts of Trade and Navigation be punctually observed; his Commission and Instructions.
Commission also given to Lieutenant-Colonel Ralph Whitfield,
at Port Morant, which is a good harbour, and likely to be much
frequented. Most of the ships trading from Europe come directly
from London, and are between 80 and 100 tons, and some few of
greater burden. Their lading is dry goods, servants, liquors,
brandy, and all manner of ironwork. &c., for planters; many touch
at the Madeiras and bring wine, and return with the Commodities
of the Island, hides, and logwood cut at Cape Catoche, which has
exceedingly contributed to the lading of ships and keeping up the
trade. Some ships come from Ireland with provisions and servants,
and return with sugar, tobacco, and logwood. Several merchants
at Port Royal have correspondents at Bristol, Chester, Plymouth,
Southampton, who supply servants, coarse cloths, provisions, ironwork. It is to the interest of the Island that the trade of Ireland
and these other places be encouraged, to disappoint those of New
England, who never brought any servants or would take off any
goods, but in exchange of their fish, peas, and pork carried away
our plate and pieces of eight; but since the Island has begun to
have good store of flesh, they begin to leave off that trade. No
vessel come from New York these two months. Between Barbadoes
and this place two or three vessels are constantly passing, and
every day some people remove hither; from the other Caribbee
Islands no vessels come unless driven down by storms. There may
be about 60 or 70 vessels belonging to the Island, and wholly
employed in fetching logwood and salt, turtling and striking
manatee, or fishing in the bays of Cuba; others go to Tirise, and
the Lagunas of Yucatan; some sloops trade with the French for
hides, meat, and tobacco; some have little designs with the
Spaniards, and others with Curacao. These small vessels built in
the Island pay no tonnage, or any duties, and take out their let
passes but once a year, or every six months; it being much to the
interest of the Island to encourage them, for they employ abundance
of men, bring trade to the Island, and constantly give advice, so
that no enemy can surprise the Island. 53pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. XXVIII. 44–96.] |
Jan. 28.
Jamaica. |
801. Governor Lord Vaughan to Sir Robert Southwell. Has
received letter and Order in Council from the Lords, and a in answer
sent an exact account of the present condition of the Island and
Government with a kind of journal of all his proceedings since his
arrival. Hopes he has fully observed all their commands, and laid
before them all the interests of this place so that Jamacia may be
fully understood. The confirmation of their laws exceedingly
imports the present and future interest of the Island; has given the
Lords divers reasons for the speedy dispatching of them, should
they scruple or stick at anything. Sir Thomas Lynch or Captain
Molesworth will give their Lordships satisfaction, for indeed the
laws are municipal and particularly adapted to the interests of
this place, so cannot be clearly understood by those who are
strangers. Begs he will let him know how his papers are received
and approved. "Rec. 8 May 1676. Read to the Lds. 11th."
1 p. [Col. Papers. Vol. XXXVI., No. 14; also Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. XXIX., p. 31.] |
Jan. 30.
Jamaica. |
802. Governor Lord Vaughan to Sir Robert Southwell. Sends
this only to accompany the bearer, Captain Molesworth, one of the
Council and a very "ingenious" person, who will give great information and light concerning the laws, and very agreeably
entertain Sir Robert with all the interests of this place. "Received
from Captain Molesworth, 3 June 1676." 1p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVI., No. 15.] |
Jan. 31.
St. James'. |
803. Sir John Werden to Major Andros. Forgot to mention in
his long letter of the 28th that none of the previous Governors of
New York permitted any foreigner's vessels to pass up the river
of New York to sell their goods up at Albany, or elsewhere in the
country, but obliged them always to sell what they had at New
York., thereby securing better the public duties at New York and
enriching the people there by giving them the opportunity of the
first markets, and of keeping the beaver trade in the hands of
the inhabitants of the colony, whereas tis said Andros permits
the Bostoners and other strangers to go up in their small vessels to
Esopus and Albany, and elsewhere, as freely as the very natural
subjects of his Royal Highness's colony. Will be glad to have his
reasons for a proceeding different from what was heretofore thought
best for the place. ¾ p. Printed in New York Documents, III.,
238. [Col. Entry Bk., No. LXX., p. 21 b.] |
Jan.
Antigua. |
804. Two Acts passed in the Island of Antigua, viz.: For the
regulating of certain clauses in an Act of this Island entituled an
Act for extending of lands and goods for debts and mulcts; and
for the establishing the six towns or places of trade within this
island for the encouragement of trade and commerce. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. L., pp. 299–304.] |
| Jan. |
805. "Briviate of the behaviour of the Dutch General at the
Castle of St. George de Mina in Guines towards the English
General there and the English interlopers upon that coast." About
May 1675 a Dutch West India ship seized the Hope of Dover,
with the King's pass, with cargo amounting to 3,700l., carried it
into the port of St. George de Mina, and made prize of it. About
January 1676, the Alice of London, John Gribble, master, was
chased on the coast of Guinea by several of the English (Royal
African) Company's ships, but fell into the hands of a Dutch ship,
and was carried to the port of De Mina, and all her cargo disposed
of. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVI., No. 16.] |
