|
Dec. 14. Doctors' Commons. |
1. Richd. Wyan to Nicholas. Have used their best diligence
about the business of the Dutch, and inclose an abstract of what
they have done. There are many more complaints before the
Council, and some of Bristol men, especially one Hallworthy. Wyan
is "no linguist, but natural tongue and some Latin." A practised
linguist, versed in commerce, is wanted. The Commissioners of
Prize Goods should appoint such a person. |
Dec. 14. |
2. Sir Wm. Alexander to the same. Requests a warrant for
bringing the Eagle from Dover to the river Thames, where she is to
take in some ordnance to be planted in a chief strength belonging
to his Majesty in Scotland. |
Dec. 14. Whitehall. |
3. Nicholas Lisle's project for levying fines on encroachments
more fully stated than in the preceding papers [1626, Nov.,
Nos. 64 to 66]. With underwritten reference by the Commissioners
of the King's revenues to Sir Robert Rich, Master in Chancery,
and Sir Thos. Fanshaw, the King's Surveyor General. |
Dec. 14. Portsmouth. |
4. Wm. Towerson to Nicholas. The Gift of God, a French ship
from Malaga, brought in by Sir John Watts, Henry Chimnett,
Master; sends an account of her lading and requests instructions. |
Dec. 14. Gloucester. |
5. W. Guise to the same. His brother having, under the Duke's
warrant, endeavoured to collect the tenths of Mr. Ellis's prize,
which miscarried, had been unable to do so, because Mr. Ellis, being
Sheriff of Bristol and Deputy for Sir John Drake, had demanded the
goods in Sir John Drake's name. |
Dec. 14. Portsmouth. |
6. Capt. Sir John Watts to Buckingham. Reports the stay of
the "great French ship" at St. Helen's, and her delivery to Capt.
Towerson. By order of Lord Conway he had sent for the Spaniards
landed in the Isle of Wight, and had dispersed them into five of
the men-of-war. There were the Cameleon, the Sarah Bonaventure, the Hopewell, and Capt. Butler's prize to be victualled. Mr.
Brookes would disburse 300l. for Sir Wm. Russell, for the wants
of the ships there, which should be carefully expended. At that
instant, he received the Duke's order to bring the Lion round to
Deptford to be docked. She has no need thereof, only of lowering
her upper works. Incloses, |
6. i. Note of the lading of the French ship brought in from
St. Helen's. |
Dec. 14. Portsmouth. |
7. The same to Nicholas. On the same subjects. Mode in which
the 300l. shall be expended. The Lion did not need more than
100l. laid out upon her. |
Dec. 14. Bristol. |
8. Wm. Willett to the same. Had attached the Amsterdam ship,
and examined three of the Dunkirkers, who confess that they took
the ship about 20 days ago. Begs him to hasten the Commission.
[In the margin is a note by Nicholas to [Sir Henry Marten],
requesting him to send the Commission by the bearer.] |
Dec. 14. Whitehall. |
Proclamation to restrain the unlawful transportation of hides and
leather. Raw hides are forbidden to be exported, and in order to
prevent the same, no hides or leather are to be put on board any
ship. [Coll. Procs. Car. I., No. 56.] |
Dec. 15. Weymouth, and Melcombe Regis. |
9. Officers of the Customs at Weymouth to—. Two other
French ships have been stayed. Mr. Gilbert Raleigh, Dep. Vice
Admiral, notwithstanding the service was done by the King's
officers, took a ton of wine and some prunes from the French ships,
whereat they seem much grieved. When the stay shall be enlarged,
no doubt there will be complaints. |
[Dec. 15.] |
10. List of such of the Special Commissioners for inquiring into
the state of the Navy as were to survey the ships and stores at
Chatham, Woolwich, and Deptford. |
[Dec. 15.] |
11. Copy of the same. |
Dec. 15. Star Chamber. |
12. The Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy to Sir Henry Mainwaring, Capts. John Pennington and
Phineas Pett, Joshua Downing, and all others his Majesty's officers.
Warrant authorizing Sir Henry Mainwaring and Capts. Pennington
and Pett to repair to Rochester, Chatham, and Gillingham, by
Monday next on the business of the Commission, and to prepare the
King's ships for a survey, Joshua Downing and all others being
charged to give assistance therein. [Draft.] |
Dec. 15. Leatherhead. |
13. Justices of Surrey to the Council. The monies received for
the loan have been paid in. Divers persons who had previously lent
on Privy Seals delivered to them in November and December 1625,
conceive that on this loan their Privy Seals should be allowed. The
Justices pray for direction therein. |
Dec. 15. Bristol. |
14. John Whitson to Nicholas. That the wines in the two French
ships stayed at Bristol may be sold, the proceeds being retained. |
Dec. 15. The Savoy. |
15. George Earl of Totness to Buckingham. About two months
ago, the Earl through the Duke's interference obtained an order for
supply of the defects in the office of the Ordnance. As the Earl
knows no man that loves the King with more zealous affection,
or more seriously takes to heart the good of the state, than the Duke,
the Earl begs him to give furtherance to the humble motion which
the Earl now makes to the King. |
Dec. 15. Newcastle. |
16. John Butler to Mr. Ashmell. An order must be obtained
from the Council before the Mayor will deliver Giles Clowe, a prisoner, to be exchanged for Thomas Dixon. Hugh Rose asks 120l.
for procuring Dixon's release, but the prisoners are to be exchanged,
prisoner for prisoner, therefore such a sum is unreasonable. The writer
will move Dixon's wife to give 10l. Mr. Ashwell had better apply
to Sec. Coke, and if he does, he is requested to mention the case of
Harry Bailes, a servant of the writer, for whom the Dunkirkers
demand a ransom of 300l. |
Dec. 15. Star Chamber. |
17. The Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy to Wm. Burrell, one of the Commissioners of the Navy.
Summons to attend the Commissioners at their next sitting on the
morrow in the Star Chamber, to answer to such questions as shall
be propounded to him. |
Dec. 15. |
18. Minute of warrant to Robt. Smyth, one of the Messengers of
the Chamber, to bring Roger Parr before the Special Commissioners
for inquiring into the state of the Navy. |
Dec. 15. |
19. Answer of Roger Parr to the interrogatories of the Special
Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the Navy. [See 1626,
Dec. 13, No. 93.] |
Dec. 15. Dartmouth. |
20. Christopher Snell to Nicholas [addressed as "James"]. Sir
John Drake had used his endeavour, both with the captain and
company, to procure from them their parts [of a prize]. Intreats
him to prevent the discouragement which will arise to adventurers,
if they see themselves crossed in sales of their goods by others that
live at home in security. |
[Dec. 16 ?] |
21. Case of the tenants of his Majesty's lordship of Narberth,
near Milford Haven. Mr. Barlow, having had various disputes with
these tenants, now seeks to buy the lordship that he may have them
at his mercy, whereupon some of the tenants petitioned the King
and procured an answer. Annexed, |
21. i. Answer above mentioned. The King refers the subject to
the Commissioners of the Revenue. Dec. 16. |
Dec. 16. |
22. Robert Bowle[?] to Sir Thos. Walsingham, senr. In two
days of travel has only got 20s. on account of the loan. The cause
arises from John Kettell, who again refuses to pay, and gibes at the
writer when he demands the amount. If he were sent for by a
pursuivant, and made an example, the money would come in suddenly, otherwise it is folly for the writer to travel up and down.
"That report of his" has come to Cray, and Mr. Edward Manning,
who appointed many days to come for his money, now says he has
disposed of it elsewhere, hearing that others thereabout refused and
did not mean to pay at all. |
Dec. 16. Whitehall. |
23. Order of Council, made on hearing the complaints of merchants
trading for France, touching the seizures of their ships and goods in
that country:—No French ships or goods were to be suffered to pass
out of Ireland until further order. |
Dec. 16. |
24. Claim by Dr. Cademan for the allowance of 100l. lent and laid
out by her Majesty's appointment. [Underwritten is a certificate
signed by Susan Countess of Denbigh, that her Majesty acknowledges
Dr. Cademan's account "to be a due debt."] |
Dec. 16. |
25. Examination of Wm. Burrell, one of the Commissioners of the
Navy, before the Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state
of the navy, concerning the books in his possession relating to the
affairs of the navy. He prays to be spared bringing them in until
Monday. |
Dec. 16. Star Chamber. |
26. Buckingham and others of the Council to William Trumbull,
one of the Clerks of the Council. Warrant authorizing him to seize
all contracts, books and papers in the possession of Mr. Burrell, which
in any way concern his Majesty's navy. |
Dec. 16. Poplar. |
27. A note of such books and papers as were taken from Mr.
Burrell. |
Dec. 16. |
28. Sir Henry Palmer's account of 141l. expended in transporting
the Earl of Holland and Lord Carleton to and from France under an
order of the Duke of Buckingham, dated Dec. 29, 1625 [by mistake
referred to as 1626]; and also under a similar order received April
10, 1626, in going to Portsmouth to receive the Vanguard and six
merchant ships lent to the French, which arrived there on the 1st of
May. |
Dec. 17. Portsmouth. |
29. Capt. Sir John Watts to Nicholas. Sends him one of the
owners of the great French ship. Another French ship brought in, of
100 tons, laden with French wines. If he does not receive counter
orders he shall bring up the Lion into the Thames. Hopes for a
fair wind, that their victuals may last. |
Dec. 17. Aboard the Globe in Stokes Bay. |
30. Capt. Thomas Philpot to Buckingham, addressed as "most illustrious Prince." Himself and Capt. Paramour had convoyed the cloth
ships to the Elbe, where they arrived on the 10th inst. Being driven
from the Elbe by stress of weather, they had been unable to make
the Downs, and had been driven into Stokes Bay, whence they would
return to the Downs as soon as possible. |
Dec. 17. Tehidie. |
31. Francis Bassett to Nicholas. Had taken measures to stay
French ships. John Trewinnard, a dep. searcher at St. Ives, had already
taken the sails off a French ship at St. Ives, and scornfully refused
to deliver them up although shown the Duke's warrant. Bad influence of such conduct amongst a people who are already too apt to
do anything to disadvantage the Duke's service. |
Dec. 18. Kingsthorp. |
32. Dr. Samuel Clerke to Sec. Conway. The Countess of Denbigh
had lately moved the Duke in his behalf for the Deanery of Worcester, which will presently be made void by the preferment of Dr. Hall.
The Duke gave a gracious answer, the rather that Mr. Saladin, tutor
to Lord Kenelm, Lady Denbigh's son, and to the Lord Chamberlain's
son, might thereupon succeed the writer in the mastership of an
hospital at Leicester. Has been chaplain in ordinary nine years,
and never sought preferment. |
Dec. 18. Ramsgate. |
33. William Euers and others to Sir John Hippisley. Information
that Henry Reeve, of Sandwich, with a company of nineteen armed
men, violently wrested from the writers a French ship which they
were about to bring to Ramsgate pier. |
Dec. 18. Doctor's Commons. |
34. Richd. Wyan to Nicholas. Sends commission and interrogatories for Bristol. Great complaint made against Salleneuve for
taking a ship of Lubeck and bringing her into Weymouth. Hoped
to have found some information on the subject in the letter sent
by Nicholas, but that being in French is heathen Greek to the writer. |
Dec. 18. |
35. Account of monies disbursed by John Attewell for provisions
brought to his Majesty's house at Chatham Hill, for the use of the
Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the Navy there
assembled this day; with underwritten certificate of Phineas Pett. |
Dec. 18. Portsmouth. |
36. Capt. Sir John Watts to Buckingham. Sir Wm. Russell having
refused to repay Mr. Brookes the 300l. which he had offered to
advance, that offer is withdrawn. Sir John purposes to furnish the
fleet on his own credit, and to come away with the first fair wind.
Begs the money may be sent down. Has eight ships with 700 men
in them. |
Dec. 18. Portsmouth. |
37. The same to Nicholas. Repeats the information in the preceding. Will set sail with the first fair wind, but the clamour of
those to whom money is due much troubles him. Entreats the
money may be sent to him, and that he may not depart from the
port in disgrace. It is his unhappiness to be commanded and to
want the means to perform. |
Dec. 18. |
38. Wm. Burrell to Wm. Trumbull, Clerk of the Council. Sends
his man for various books which are needed for present use. The
contracts for ships are some of them in the hands of Mr. Edisbury,
who will look them up. The rest Burrell will bring to Trumbull
that day, that he may take notes of them as he will, so that Burrell
may carry them away, for they are his evidences for great sums. |
Dec. 19. |
39. D. Burton to Nicholas. Mr. Hugessen [Hugonson] is to be
bound in 1,000l. to the Duke of Buckingham, if certain packs of
coral seized at Portsmouth prove good prize within twelve months. |
Dec. 19. |
40. Interrogatories administered to Kenrick Edisbury, Paymaster
of the Navy, by the Special Commissioners for inquiring into the
state of the Navy. |
Dec. 19. |
41. Answers of Kenrick Edisbury to the preceding interrogatories. |
Dec. 19. Aboard the Desire in the Downs. |
42. Christopher Bulger, Master of the Desire, to Buckingham.
Has stayed a French bark, Corneille Bloquet, Master, and reports the
nature of her lading. Incloses, |
42. i. Bill of lading of goods for Hamburgh. Rouen, 1626,
Dec. 8/18. |
42. ii. Another bill of lading of goods for London. Rouen,
1626, Dec. 9/19. |
Dec. 19. The Downs. |
43. Capt. Wm. Cooke to Nicholas. Is grieved that false information should be given against the captains of the City ships. Incloses
a letter which they hope the Duke will take into his consideration,
also a journal of their proceedings. Inclose, |
43. i. Capt. Wm. Cooke and thirteen others, captains of the ships
furnished by the City of London to Buckingham. Give
a minute report of their proceedings from the 10th inst.,
and beseech him to believe that when wind and weather
were fitting he would find no neglect in them. The six
ships bound for the French King's service are detained at
Amsterdam. 1626, December 19. |
43. ii. Brief journal of their course from the 7th to the 17th
December. |
Dec. 19. |
44. Sir Henry Palmer to Nicholas. Had received his account,
but nothing to the purpose. Reminds Nicholas of his promise to get
his account underwritten, and also to send him a warrant for his
payment for the time he had served. Hopes he shall not be put "to
seek after the sitting of the Commissioners." His attendance has
been chargeable enough, and he must be gone, leaving his business
no forwarder than when he came up. |
Dec. 19. Star Chamber. |
45. The Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy to—, one of the Messengers of the Chamber, directing
him to charge [John] Ackworth; [John] Wells, Keeper of the Stores;
Falkner, Clerk of the Check; and [Kenrick] Edisbury, to make
their immediate repair to the Star Chamber in the Messenger's company, to answer before the Commissioners to such things as should be
objected against them. |
Dec. 19. |
46. Attorney General Heath to the Council. Reports his opinion on
a petition from an English creditor of a late Bailiff of one of the Channel Islands. The will of the late Bailiff being disputed the creditor
remained unpaid. The Attorney General recommends a letter to be
addressed to the Bailiff and Jurats to urge on the suit, and to see
that the petitioner's debt were paid out of the first monies received, to
John Le Vavasseur, son of Michael Le Vavasseur, on the petitioner's
account. |
Dec. 19. Star Chamber. |
47. Note of books and papers of Mr. Burrell perused by Mr.
Aylesbury, Sir Robt. Cotton, Sir Wm. Heydon, and Sir John Trevor,
Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the Navy. |
Dec. 19. |
48. Copy or duplicate of the preceding; with marginal memoranda
of the redelivery of various books and papers to Mr. Burrell on
Dec. 20. |
Dec. 20. |
49. Certificate of Sir Nicholas Poyntz and others, described as
"the better sort of prisoners in Newgate," as to the carriage in
prison of John Tapps. |
Dec. 20. |
50. Philip Burlamachi to Sec. Conway. The 40l. paid to Mr.
Huncks had been refused to be allowed in Holland, and so also the
30l. paid to Mr. Conway, Lord Conway's son. Fr. |
Dec. [20.] |
51. Petition of Henry Waltham to the Council:—On pretence
of his owing 500l. to the King he was sent for in November last;
has given bond for the money in the Court of Admiralty, which
ought to be a discharge; is a merchant [of Weymouth] trading in
cloth and employing above 200 people, his trade being wholly into
France, where his goods are stayed by a general restraint; prays that
he may be admitted to speak by counsel. |
Dec. 20. |
52. Certificate of Christopher Vernon of the compositions made
with the Commissioners for Sale of his Majesty's Lands, in feefarm, from 1626, Sept. 27, to the 5th Dec. The sum received was
29,996l. 8s. 11d.; the old rents reserved amounted to 830l. 5s. 8d.;
the increased rents, to 856l. 14s. 11½d. |
Dec. 20. |
53. Uncertified copy of the preceding. |
Dec. 20. |
54. Another copy with some additions and corrections. The
amounts stand as follows: the sum received, 30,767l. 3s. 1d.; the old
rents, 854l. 18s. 8d.; increased rents, 879l. 7s. 11½d. |
Dec. 20. Whitehall. |
Sec. Conway to Sir Heneage Finch, Recorder of London. For his
favour to the Company of Innholders of London in renewing their
charter. [Minute, Conway's Letter Book., p. 258.] |
Dec. 21. |
55. Richard Wyan to Nicholas. Shall be absent until the day after
Christmas. Can get no money for the King's business. It is his
employment day and night, and he has put all his private practice
off, but has never had a penny from the King. The Duke has
honorably interposed, but Wyan is turned over from one to another
with as much scorn as if he begged. |
Dec. 21. |
56. Payments made by anticipation of the ordinary revenue;
total 162,119l. 12s. 5d. |
Dec. 21. |
57. Estimate of John Mason and Peter Pett for repairs of the
King's dock at Woolwich, necessary to be done for the reception of
the Triumph and Swiftsure; 160l. |
Dec. 21. |
58. Copy of the preceding. |
Dec. 21. |
59. Lord Keeper Coventry to the King. Report on a petition of
Sarah Lady Hastings, respecting disputes between her and Sir Edwd.
Zouch, relating to their rights under the will of the late Lord Zouch.
These disputes had been referred by the parties to the Lord Steward
of the Household, and the Countess of Bedford, whose award the
Lord Keeper thought should be adhered to, with one slight
alteration. [Copy.] |
Dec. [22.] |
60. Interrogatories for examination of John Wells and John
Ackworth before the Special Commissioners for inquiry into the
state of the navy. |
Dec. 22. |
61. Answer of John Ackworth to the interrogatories before
mentioned. |
Dec. 22. |
62. Attorney General Heath to Sec. Conway. His Majesty had
signed three letters concerning the draining of Hatfield Chase, which
it is hoped will facilitate the work. |
Dec. 22. Whitehall. |
63. Sir Robert Aiton to Sir Francis Nethersole. In answer to
his congratulations on his restoration to an office about the Queen.
The Queen of Bohemia may rely upon it that he will watch for all
occasions of doing her service with the Queen, his mistress, although
her Majesty need no remembrancer on such occasions. He is to
have a fellow joined with him, rather he hopes for his good than for
his disgrace. |
Dec. 22. Star Chamber. |
64. Order of Council:—That the survey of ships and stores directed
by order of the 23d of Oct. last, to be made by the former Commissioners of the Navy, should now be proceeded with by the said
Commissioners, they taking care not to interfere with the persons
already deputed by the Council to make a similar survey. |
Dec. 22. |
65. Draft of the preceding. [On the blank page is written a
memorandum that Sir Norton Knatchbull, then lying at the Sun
in Cheapside, was to attend the Lord Admiral, and was to call
to mind the words that the collector gave concerning Sir Dudley
Digges's answer before the Lord Tufton.] |
Dec. 22. Star Chamber. |
66. The Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy to Attorney General Heath. It being necessary that money
should be issued to the Commissioners for charges and rewards of
persons employed, he is to prepare a Privy Seal for payment to
Sackville Crow of 500l. on account, and of such further sums as
shall be required, under the hand of five of the Commissioners.
[Draft.] |
Dec. 22. Whitehall. |
67. The King to Buckingham. The King being informed that
there are at Havre de Grace six or eight ships, lately bought by
the French King in the Low Countries, and intended to be employed
to the great prejudice of England, the Duke is directed to command the captains of the ships set forth by the City of London to
repair to Havre, and there to take or sink the said ships. |
Dec. 22. Whitehall. |
68. The same to the same. The King being informed that
there was at Rochelle great store of ships intended to be employed
to the great prejudice of England, the Duke is directed to give command to Capt. Pennington and the other captains of the ships set
forth by the City of London to repair to Rochelle, and there to take,
sink, or burn all such ships. |
Dec. 22. The Downs. |
69. Capt. John Lowe to Nicholas. Two French ships came into
the Downs that day. The King's pinnace stayed one; the other
named the Oliver, was stayed by the writer. Some Holland ships
report that four of the ships they were to look out for were gone five
weeks since; one other was cast away, and another is still at Enckhuysen. The fleet had gone to sea that night. Begs Nicholas to
pacify the Duke. The wind and weather had been so contrary, that
they could not do more than they had done. |
Dec. 22. Bristol. |
70. Wm. Willett to the same. Reports his proceedings respecting
the Flemish ship which, having been taken by the Dunkirkers, was
afterwards driven by stress of weather into Bristol. After he had
been four days in possession, a claim had been set up by the Sheriffs
of Bristol, who had seized the ship and insisted that she belonged
to them. Begs directions what to do. |
Dec. 22. |
71. Order of the Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state
of the Navy:—Mr. Burrell having stated, that the defects of the
Bonaventure arose from her being too high in the stern and above
decks, and that if she were taken lower she would be as good a
sailor as the ships built at Dunkirk, the Lord Admiral was requested to submit the same to his Majesty, so that a trial thereof
might be made. [Copy.] |
Dec. 22. |
72. Draft thereof. |
Dec. 23. Prison [of Newgate.] |
73. John Tapps to Sec. Conway. By the displeasure of the late
Lord Chief Justice, and the persecution of James, the clerk and one
of the keepers of that prison, he has been kept from the benefit of
his pardon, which has been stayed at the Great Seal. Begs Lord
Conway to perfect his work, by moving the Lord Keeper in his
behalf, and in the meantime by sending some powerful warrant for
his employment as a soldier. |
Dec. [23 ?] |
74. Sir Wm. Sandys to the same. Thanks for excusing Sir
William's going into Hampshire, on account of his ill health.
Begs Lord Conway to move the King, that he may permitted to
stay [in London] this Christmas. |
Dec. 23. Harold Stone. |
75. Sir James Perrott to Wm. Earl of Pembroke. Reports the
stay of the Tout Sainct, a French ship laden with salt for Dartmouth. Wishes for a commission for examination of persons who
have concealed goods of ships lately wrecked on that coast. |
Dec. 24. |
76. Commissioners for the Loan for the County of Oxford to the
High Sheriff of the same county. He is to summon the Commissioners for the Loan to meet for the execution of the Commission at
the Town Hall of Oxford, on the 17th of Jan. 1627, by eight in
the morning. |
Dec. 24. |
77. The same to the same. He is to direct all mayors and
constables within the county to summon all persons assessed to the
last subsidy to appear before the Commissioners for the Loan on
certain specified days. |
Dec. 24. Whitehall. |
78. Buckingham to Capt. John Pennington. Commission appointing him Captain of the George, and Admiral of the fleet prepared
by the City of London. Capt. Hawkridge to be transferred from
the George to the Abigail, now commanded by Mr. Cheake in
the absence of his father. |
Dec. 24. Whitehall. |
79. The same to the same. Instructions. He is to make stay of all
French ships and goods, and to ply for that purpose between—
and St. Maloes, on the coast of France. If he meet with Dunkirkers or Spaniards he is to take or sink them, and is to intercept
all Hamburghers or Lubeckers carrying munition to Spain. |
Dec. 24. Whitehall. |
80. The same to the same. Further instructions. Advertisements being given that a Spanish fleet of 30 or 40 pataches is
prepared to set forth from Biscay to Dunkirk, having on board 4,000
men, and treasure to pay the Spanish troops in Flanders, and also
that the said fleet is to come to St. Maloes, where command has
been given by the French King that it shall be "friendly received,"
he is to repair to St. Maloes, and to ply up and down to intercept
and take those pataches. |
Dec. 24. Whitehall. |
81. Buckingham to Capt. John Pennington. Secret instructions
in the handwriting of Nicholas. Four or six ships, bought by the
French King in the Low Countries and now riding at Havre de
Grace, are intended to be employed to the prejudice of his Majesty.
As Pennington passes towards St. Maloes he is to find out those
ships, and to give the Captains of them some occasion to fall out with
him, whereupon he is to take or sink them. If they will not meddle
first with him, he is to pick some quarrel with them, and so to
assail and take them. |
Dec. 24. Whitehall. |
82. The same to all Mayors and other officers. Capt. John
Pennington being employed in his Majesty's special service is to be
furnished with five horses for himself, three servants, and a guide,
for his better expedition to Dover. |
Dec. 24. Aboard the Benediction, in the Downs. |
83. Capt. Robt. Orme to Nicholas. Reports the stay of a French
ship, laden with High Country wine, which he had sent on for
London. Answers complaints which he thinks had been made
against him to the Duke of Buckingham. He does not undertake
that office to get a living, but for his delight, neither does he value
his life if he may do honour to his country. They have been forced
into the Downs, but will sail again as soon as possible. Sir John
Watts and other ships arrived last night. |
Dec. 24. Bristol. |
84. Wm. Willett to the same. Capt. Harris had arrived in King
Road with the Phœnix. As he was at Mount's Bay there came in
a Hamburgher and a Frenchman. If the Hamburgher prove prize
she will be welcome. Requests instructions what shall be done.
Purposed to have acquainted Sir Wm. Russell, but has heard that
he has given over his place of Treasurer of the Navy. |
Dec. 24. Stokes Bay. |
85. Capts. Thos. Philpot, Richd. Paramour, and Wm. Hemming to
Buckingham. On the 22d, they stood towards the coast of France,
and up to this day have arrested nine French ships, a Dutch ship,
a Scottish bark laden with French goods, and a Dutch pink,
which they suspect to be a freebooter, all which they have sent into
Portsmouth, and delivered them to Capt. Towerson. Inclose, |
85. i. Note of all the ships taken by them, as before-mentioned,
with their names, tonnage, names of the Masters, and
various other particulars. |
Dec. 24. Dover. |
86. Capt. Mervin Burley to Nicholas. Had brought into Dover two
French ships, and had delivered them to Sir John Hippisley. Wants
more men; is allowed but thirty, and he rows with twenty oars
double handed. Incloses, |
86. i. Note of the lading of the two French ships above-mentioned. |
Dec 24. Haverfordwest. |
87. Justices of co. Pembroke to the Council. The Timothy, of
London, one of Lord Willoughby's fleet, having come into Tenby,
and being there detained by contrary winds, had applied for a
supply of victuals. The supplies furnished to the King's soldiers
on their return from Cadiz, having been questioned, the writers
pray that the payments for those supplies may be allowed, and
that directions may be given respecting the ship now at Tenby.
Inclose, |
87. i. Simon Morgan, Purser of the Timothy, to Dep. Lieuts. and
others, Commissioners for co. Pembroke. His ship, employed in the King's service, had been driven into Tenby;
requests a supply of victuals. 1626, Dec. 23. |
Dec. 24. Deal. |
88. Capt. Wm. Hawkridge to Nicholas. The 23d, the day he
parted from Nicholas, he lodged in Sandwich, where being overwearied he rested until noon. Reports what ships there are in
the Downs. Looked for his ship that night from the Gore, and if he
can, will put to sea. The Dunkirkers took two Scottish ships yesterday laden with wines. Wishes he would write to Portsmouth that
the ships there should lie outside the Wight, which would save near
two days. |
Dec. 25. Deal. |
89. Capt. John Pennington to Buckingham. Arrived at Deal by
eight o'clock that morning, found fourteen sail of merchant ships, but
his ship, the George, was still riding at Gore End. Found Capt.
Hawkridge there, who had been unable to get aboard by reason of foul
weather. Has sent to have the George come about with the first
opportunity, and purposes not to lose an hour. The ships have only
a month's victuals aboard. |
Dec. 25. London. |
90. John Urquhart [Urcard ?] to the Captains and Masters of the
twenty sail of ships sent out by the City of London. These ships
were to return to Blackwall by the 23d Jan. next, at which time the
three months would have expired and the Committee will not be at
any more charges. |
Dec. 26. Dover. |
91. Capt. John Warde to Nicholas. The ships furnished by the
Cinque Ports were victualled only until January 4. As the Duke is
Lord Warden, they hope they shall not be thrust out of employment
when others stand. |
Dec. 26. Tichborne. |
92. Sir Richard Tichborne [to Sec. Conway]. His Lordship having
given them a fair entrance to the business of the loan in Hants,
the Commissioners will give a timely account of their proceedings.
In his district, all who have appeared have either laid down their
money or subscribed. His associate Commissioners are active in the
service, especially those of the Church and Sir Henry Whitehead. In
the New Forest district, of all that came before them there was no
one refuser; but money is scarce in that wilderness, and the four
companies of Col. Bruce's regiment lie yet upon their confines. The
county has received comfort from the arrangement that the monies now lent are to be issued for payment of the soldiers, which
they attribute to his Lordship's mediation. In the New Forest he
found the collectors not all of sufficient ability for a collection which
will amount to 1,600l. or 1,700l. |
Dec. 26. Portsmouth. |
93. Wm. Towerson to Buckingham. Sends a certificate of French
ships and goods left in his custody by Sir John Watts and Capt.
Philpot. He has taken all their sails ashore, and warned the crews
against embezzlement. Wheat in the Dutch ship would perish if not
unladen. Incloses, |
93. i. Certificate above mentioned. |
Dec. 26. Dover. |
94. Luke Burden, Captain of one of the Cinque Port ships, to
Nicholas. The Committee of the Cinque Ports purpose to send up
their two ships about Thursday sennight, which is the expiration
of the three months. Desires the Duke's directions. |
Dec. 27. Aboard the George. |
95. Capt. John Pennington, Admiral of the fleet prepared by the
City of London, and other officers of the said fleet, to the Captains.
Instructions to be observed by them. |
Dec. 27. Bristol. |
96. Capt. Christr. Harris to Nicholas. On Christmas Day [sic]
he arrived in the Phoenix, in King Road, bringing with him the
Hamburgher and the French ship before mentioned. [See 1626,
Dec. 24, No. 84.] |
Dec. 27. Dover Castle. |
97. Sir John Hippisley to Buckingham. Twelve great dry vats
had arrived for the Duke from Calais; he had stayed them till the
other goods came. Sec. Coke had written for Bulger's French prize
to be sent to London. Wants the commission for Camber Castle,
and that the Assurance, of Dover, which he took up, may be paid.
Finds by Capt. Pennington that all his men and ships are out of
order; is doing his best to help him with pilots for the French coast,
but wishes he had a press warrant. |
Dec. 28. |
98. Description of four men taken in the Violet, of Ipswich, on the
coast of Holland. |
Dec. 28. |
99. Receipt of John Bentley, Collector, for 40s. received of Richd.
Tutty, money subscribed to be lent to his Majesty. |
Dec. 28. Whitehall. |
Sec. Conway to Sir Charles Morgan. Signifying his Majesty's
pleasure for Sir John Borlace's coming over into England. [Minute,
Conway's Letter Book, p. 258.] |
Dec. 28. Deal. |
100. Capt. John Pennington to Buckingham. The wind has blown
so violently that it has been impossible to loose a ship. They are
now fifteen sail, of which he incloses a list; but the ships are poorly
manned, and are mean things, unfit for men-of-war. They are,
besides, overrated in burthen, and their ordnance of little use. The
King and his Grace have been much abused respecting this fleet. It
makes a noise with the name of twenty ships, but he would beat
them all with two ships of the King's. Their ammunition is not
more than enough for a fight of two hours, and they have order not
to stay out longer than three months. He has written to Sir John
Hippisley for pilots, but no defects shall keep him there one moment
after he has weather. Wishes the Duke to order the ships at Portsmouth to meet him at Havre de Grace or St. Maloes. Incloses, |
100. i. List of fifteen ships before mentioned. |
Dec. 28. |
101. Thos. Wyan to Nicholas. Capt. Daniel Vasse had brought
into Axeholme a prize laden with corn. Sends him to Nicholas to
name Commissioners to protect the Duke's interests. |
Dec. 28. |
102. Petition of the bailiffs, inhabitants, and fishermen of Aldborough, Dunwich, Southwold, and Walberswick, co. Suffolk, to the
high and mighty Prince, George Duke of Buckingham:—Set forth
their great losses from the Dunkirkers, principally in consequence of
the fleet for convoy not being ready in time. The Westmony fleet
that usually goes for ling ought to be ready in February, and that
for Iceland at the end of March; they pray that ships of war may
be set forth in due time for their convoy. |
Dec. 29. Whitehall. |
Sec. Conway to Frances Duchess of Richmond. Sends a petition of
Mr. Lathom for a debt due to him from the late Duke. [Minute,
Conway's Letter Book, p. 258.] |
Dec. 29. |
103. Opinion of Sir Thos. Love and Capt. John Mason as to where
ships should be stationed to intercept vessels passing out of the Sound. |
Dec. 29. |
104. Petition of Moris-ap-John David Lloyd, keeper of the gaol
within the lordship of Kynlleth Owen, to the Council:—Francis
Ellis, of Penley, co. Flint, who had been in the petitioner's custody
for debt, having escaped, was now lurking in the suburbs of
London, and petitioner was prosecuted by Ellis's creditors; prays for
a Council warrant to apprehend Ellis, and remand him to custody. |
Dec. 29. |
105. Nicholas's minutes of business to be brought before the
Council by the Duke of Buckingham:—Discharge of Cinque Ports
ships; money for ships to be stationed in the Downs; petition of
fishermen of Suffolk; four Newcastle ships to be taken up for that
service; Sir John Hippisley's claim for 36l. 1s.; proclamation against
exporting pipe staves. |
[Dec. 29.] |
106. Names of pilots of Dover appointed to go in the fleet under
Capt. Pennington, of whom all but two refused to serve. |
Dec. 29. |
107. Similar list of persons appointed to go from Sandwich, all of
whom refused. |
Dec. 29. |
108. Deposition of Stephen Rickard, waiter in the port of Chester,
concerning a bark, supposed to be a Dunkirker, which was supplied
with butter and cheese in the river Pothelley, co. Caernarvon. |
Dec. 30. |
109. Petition of English merchants trading in French wines to
the Council:—Their factors at Bordeaux "not misdoubting" the
embargo there, had laden in English and Scottish bottoms above
4,000 tons of wines, part whereof had arrived in the Thames; these
wines are the return for English cloth exported by the petitioners,
and for which they are indebted to the clothiers; pray that they
may be at liberty to land and sell their wines. |
Dec. 30. Whitehall. |
110. Order of Council, on the petition of the owners of French
ships stayed at Portsmouth and St. Ives, and which ships are laden
with fruits and Spanish wines:—That the ships should be brought
round to London, and their cargoes be there disposed of according to
the order of 10th inst. for disposal of French goods stayed being of a
perishable nature. |
Dec. 30. Whitehall. |
111. Order of Council:—Order having been given to the Lord
Lieuts. of Kent, Sussex, Hants, Dorset, and Berks, to receive the
loans to his Majesty, and thereout to issue the charge of soldiers
billeted upon the said counties, the Lord Treasurer and Chancellor
of the Exchequer are directed to issue warrants accordingly, and also
for the passage-money of the soldiers that came lately from Plymouth
and of the sailors that went down to their ships through Hampshire. |
Dec. 30. |
112. Copy of the preceding. |
Dec. 30. |
113. Petition of Calcott Chambre to the Council. For permission
to export to Marseilles, Toulon, or elsewhere, beyond the States, a
quantity of pipe staves imported from Ireland, and which have
long remained unsaleable in London. [Underwritten is an
order complying with this request provided the Commissioners
of the Navy did not intend to make use of the said pipe staves;
also certificates from the Commissioners of the Navy that the
same were not needed for the King's stores.] |
Dec. 30. Ragland Castle. |
114. Henry Lord Herbert of Ragland to Buckingham. The
loan in the counties of Monmouth and Glamorgan goes on with the
wished success, cheerfully, and not without some repining against
them that failed in their promises, and deceived his Majesty's expectation in not giving the supply necessary to a business of so high
consequence. Monmouth, which is completed, will, he hopes, give a
precedent to Glamorganshire and all Wales. |
Dec. 31. Aboard the George in the Downs. |
115. Capt. John Pennington to the Council. Got aboard his ship
with difficulty on the 28th, and on the 29th set sail with all his fleet,
but the wind veered, and blew so furiously that they were forced
to return to the Downs. The Globe, the Merchant Bonaventure,
and the Ellen have joined them in the Downs, but the weather has
prevented his speaking with them. Will not lose a minute's time,
having an extraordinary desire, besides his duty, to let the Frenchmen know that their insolences are not well taken nor shall pass
unrevenged. |
Dec. 31. Eton near Windsor. |
116. Richard Daye to Sec. Conway. Recommends his project for
sowing Windsor forest with acorns to the Sec.'s attention. [See 1626,
Jan. 19, No. 94.] |
Dec. 31. |
117. Commissioners of the Navy to Walter Cooke and three other
Masters of the Trinity House, and John Graves and three other
master shipwrights in the Thames. Warrant directing them to make
a complete survey of the navy, and to report minutely respecting the
present condition of all the King's ships. |
Dec. 31. |
118. Duplicate of the preceding. |
Dec. 31. Lees. |
119. Robt. Earl of Warwick to Sec. Conway. Sends a list of
certain of his countrymen, excellent masters and pilots, who are
prisoners in Flanders. Begs Lord Conway to get them released in
exchange for some of the prisoners whom the Earl delivered by
Lord Conway's appointment. |
[Dec.] |
120. Lists of persons who did not appear before the Commissioners of the Loan in the upper division of the lathe of Sutton-atHone, co. Kent, and of such persons as refused to lend. |
[Dec. ?] |
121. Petition of David and Jacob Curiell, Michael de Pas, and
others of Amsterdam, owners of goods in the Golden Herring, of
Enckhuysen, to the Council:—On a return voyage from Barbary the
ship was surprized by the fleet under Lord Willoughby, and
brought round to London; pray that their goods may be delivered
to them on giving security. |
[Dec. ?] |
122. Similar petition, with the additional prayer that no goods
may be sold until Sir Henry Marten has given sentence in the cause. |
[Dec. ?] |
123. Account of the mode in which a debt of 20,000l. to [Burlamachi ?] was discharged; and a further account of the amount paid
on account of 16,117l. 4s. 4d. due to merchants of Rouen for goods
sold and employed in his Majesty's service. |
[Dec.] |
125. Philip Burlamachi to Sec. Conway. Had disbursed two
months pay for the troops going to State, but the third month remains unprovided for. The money assigned to him for that purpose
had been diverted to other services. Fr. |
[Dec.] Star Chamber. |
124. Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy to Sackville Crow. For payment of 5l. by way of imprest to
Jonas Day, for riding from the Isle of Wight to Chatham by order
of the Commissioners. [Draft.] |
[Dec.] |
126. Petition of Edward Stevens, Shipwright, to Buckingham
and the Special Commissioners for inquiring into the state of the
Navy:—Stands committed for disrespectful words spoken to Sir
Sackville Trevor and Capt. Phineas Pett, on the survey of the
Triumph at Woolwich; expresses contrition, and prays enlargement. |
[Dec.] |
127. Names of his Majesty's ships in the Medway and in the dry
docks at Chatham surveyed by the Special Commissioners; with the
names of the persons by whom each ship was surveyed. |
[Dec.] |
128. Names of such persons as the Commissioners for French goods
think fit to be deputed in every port for unlading, inventorying,
appraising, and putting up in safe custody the French goods. |
[Dec.] |
129. Sir Thos. Middleton, Sir Paul Pindar, Sir John Wolstenholme,
Sir Maurice Abbot, Aldermen Hugh Hammersley, Ralph Freeman,
Thos. Moulson, Richard Venn, and Abraham Jacob, and Henry
Garway, Commissioners for French goods, to the Mayor of Plymouth.
Sir Jas. Bagg, Nicholas Sherwill and Abraham Colman, Aldermen
of Plymouth, Wm. Birch, Wm. Heale, and Matthew Edgecomb, appointing them to be the Commissioners' substitutes. |
[Dec.] |
130. Wm. Towerson [to Nicholas]. The Gift of God, of St. Maloes,
laden with fruit and Malaga wine, was to discharge her goods by
warrant from the Lord Treasurer and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Calls upon Nicholas to hasten the Duke's private letter to Towerson
to stay their proceedings, and to send it away by the running
post. |
[Dec.] |
131. Petition of John Delabarre to the Council:—There being of
late no English ships at Nantes, wines were laden for him in a
French vessel which has arrived in London, prays that he may be
permitted to land and dispose of the same notwithstanding the
restraint. |
[Dec. ?] |
132. Petition of Bailiffs and Aldermen of Ipswich to the same:—
On receipt of the letter of the 29th July last for providing two ships
for the King's service, with contribution from the maritime towns
and the county, they acquainted the other towns, who all excused
themselves; and an endeavour to collect a fourth part of the charge in
Ipswich was unsuccessful, for reasons expressed in their former
petition, and which they now more shortly report. |
[Dec.] |
133. Minutes of business to be brought before the Council by Sec.
Conway. The Earl of Northampton's requests, (see 1626, Dec. 6,
No. 31, and Dec. 7, No. 44,) and that of the Earl of Warwick, that
certain pilots now prisoners at Dunkirk might be exchanged (see
1626, Dec. 31, No. 119,) also a request of the Dep. Lieuts. of Hants,
pressing the removal of those soldiers into Dorsetshire that are to
go thither. |
[Dec.] |
134. Minutes of papers to be submitted to the King. Amongst
them:—Declaration that the King will not grant the reversions of
Lord Arundel of Wardour's lands to any person; annexation of the
parish church of St. Mary Witton to that of St. Andrew, both in
Droitwich; recommendation of Peter Golding as a scholar of
Sutton's Hospital; allowance of 1,000l. to Sir Isaac Wake for his
transport from Turin to Venice, and 1,000l. for his sojourn at the
Court of Saxony; payment of the Queen's debts for Barges, 410l.,
and to Dr. Cademan, 100l. |
[Dec. ?] |
135. Sir Edward Zouch to the King, entitled "for your Majesty's
private instruction." Sets forth in what way he proposes to perform the award, [see 1626, Dec. 21, No. 59,] and if it be not
satisfactory, prays for a protection or some employment or leave to
go beyond sea. |
[Dec. ?] |
136. Petition of Thos. Thorold, Charles Snelling, Wm. Barkeley,
and eight others, English merchants, to the Council:—The Henry
and the Gift of God, laden by the petitioners, arrived at Newhaven
about the 7th inst., and were there arrested by Mons. de Villieurs,
the Governor, in reprisal for a ship of that town taken by the fleet
lately set forthand brought into the Thames; pray for relief. |
[Dec. ?] |
137. Petition of about 300 shipwrights, artificers, and labourers
at Chatham, to the same:—Having been kept in the King's work
12 months without pay or allowance for meat and drink, many
have "pawned all they can make," others have been turned out of
doors, and their wives and children are crying for food; pray that
they may be paid. |
[Dec. ?] |
138. Similar petition to the illustrious Prince, George Duke of
Buckingham. |
[Dec.] |
139. Petition of Thos. Annonnier, of the Isle of Rhé, to Buckingham:—Prays for permission to remove his ship, the St. Andrew,
from Southampton, where it is detained by the general embargo, to
Plymouth. Fr. |