|
March 1. Whitehall. |
Minute of an order of the Council, that the Officers of the Ordnance
should certify whether there be sufficient brass ordnance for supply
of the Fleet besides those mentioned in their estimate of the 24th
February last as intended for the Postmaster's frigate, the Speedy
Post of London; and if not, to state whether that description of
ordnance be needful for that vessel, and if not what other ordnance
they have that is suitable. [See Vol. cccxlviii. No. 26. ⅓
p.] |
March 1. |
1. Sir Rice Rudd, Sheriff of co. Carmarthen, to Nicholas. Has sent
to be paid in 360l., viz., 30l. received from Carmarthen, 10l. from
Kidwelly, and 30l. from the county. The other 400l. he will collect
with all speed. [Seal with arms. ½
p.] |
March 1. Ridlington, co. Rutland. |
2. Sir Edward Harrington to the same. Finds the way he takes
to succeed well. Some opposition he has now and then, but he
spares them not, neither will he till he has perfected the work. As
soon as he has signed all the assessments he will send a certificate.
Hopes very speedily to get in all the money. Has now 400l. in his
hands, and is busy procuring a safe return thereof to Sir William
Russell. The carrier's name is Sicill; he inns at the Bell in Smithfield,
and comes out of town every Monday. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
March 1. |
3. The Journeymen Printers of London to Sir John Lambe.
Petitioners have suffered great misery through want of employment
in their mystery, one special reason whereof is the multitude of
bibles and other books printed in Scotland and transported hither,
as may appear from a note stated to have been annexed. Had those
books been printed in London many of the poor petitioners might have
received maintenance, with their wives and children, in this last
disconsolate season, in which had it not happened that one great
volume, not heretofore printed in England, was put to the press by
one of the Company of Stationers, many of petitioners must have
perished for want of bread; some of them, in their great necessity,
being enforced to carry the corpses of such as died of the plague,
others to carry water, which great miseries some of them still
endure. Pray Sir John to stand their friend in the suppressing of
the importation of all sorts of books out of Scotland. [¾
p.] |
March 1. The Leopard in the Downs. |
4. Capt. William Rainsborough to the Lords of the Admiralty.
Received their order to waft the Grace of Weymouth, laden with
munition, to Falmouth. She is not yet arrived; doubts not she will
be there to-morrow. His surgeon is aboard her with his chest, the
Company of Surgeons having detained him so long that he could
not come to Rainsborough in the Hope. On her arrival they will
not lose an hour's time, for he has an extraordinary desire to be
where he may do the business he is set about. [1 p.] |
March 1. Whitehall. |
5. List of fourteen ships lent by the King to the Prince Elector.
They were the Bonaventure, the Mary Rose, the Unicorn, of London,
the Industry, the Mary [May ?] Flower, the William and Elizabeth,
the Golden Eagle, the Margaret, the William, the Prudence, the
Royal Defence, the First and Tenth Whelps, and the Swan. [¾
p.] |
March 1. |
6. Minute of an arrangement between the Lords of the Admiralty
and Thomas Thornhill, the saltpetreman, for refining a quantity of
rough and unrefined saltpetre, purchased from the East India
Company. The terms were that Thornhill should deliver as much
of the said saltpetre refined, as was equal in value to the sum paid
for the whole quantity of saltpetre unrefined. He received 59 tons
and 1½ 1b. of rough petre and returned 41 tons 3 cwts. 3 quarters,
and 12 lbs. of refined. The overplus which Thornhill had might be
about 3 or 4 tons. [1 p.] |
March 1. |
7. Certificate of Thomas Thornhill and William Blythe of
further quantities of foreign saltpetre in the hands of the East
India Company and of Mr. Brigges, and as to how much thereof
would be wasted in refining. [¼
p.] |
March 1. Office of Ordnance. |
8. Officers of Ordnance to Montjoy, Earl of Newport, Master of
the Ordnance. Report on Mr. Bagnall's proposition sent to Lord
Newport by the Lords of the Admiralty. Cannot give any opinion
thereon without conference with the propounder. Cannot understand what he means by made grounds. It will be a great grievance
to the country that the price of carriages, which was settled upon a
complaint made by the country in Parliament, should be abated,
and the writers do not see any reason for it. Nor do they know
what is the amount of saltpetre which Bagnall is bound to furnish,
the contracts of the saltpetremen not being entered into with that
office as formerly. If their opinions be desired, pray that they may
first confer with the propounder. [1 p.] |
March 1. St. John's [Clerkenwell]. |
9. William, Earl of Exeter, to Sec. Coke. Lord Fitz-William has
absolutely disobeyed the order of the Board in not showing his
horses at the last musters in Northamptonshire, although the DeputyLieutenants allowed him time after the musters to produce them
before the Earl. This is a second contempt, and the Earl cannot
serve his Majesty if his commands be so affronted. Concerning the
recusants' arms the town of Northampton says they were delivered
by them to some of the former Deputies, now dead. The Earl has
encouraged some of the recusants to lay to their charge the
embezzling of their particular arms, for Lord Brudenell told the
Earl that he delivered to that town 60 as good arms as are to be
had in England. But he and the rest are fearful to aver anything
unless they be brought to it by authority. [Seal with crest and
garter. 1 p.] |
March 1. |
10. Statement of the case between Edward Tyringham and
Anthony Tyringham respecting a lease of the parsonage of Tyringham granted as security for a loan which had been much overpaid.
The particulars are stated in Vol. cccxlvi., No. 39. [½
p.] |
March 1. |
11–16. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 2. Office of Ordnance. |
Officers of Ordnance to the Council. There is not sufficient
brass ordnance for supply of the Fleet and the Postmasters' frigate.
There is no ordnance among the stores in the Tower for furnishing
this pinnace, save six brass falcons which the writers think might
be spared, but at Portsmouth there are some iron saker drakes
which would serve, but that the requisite haste is such as will not
admit of the loss of time in sending for them. [See Vol. cccxlviii.,
No. 26. 2/3
p.] |
March 2. |
17. Certificate of William Selby, bailiff of the hundred of
Higham Ferrers, that together with Roger Tudor, steward to
Charles Cockayne, and Richard Astell, an assistant to the writer,
he went to Ringstead to collect ship-money. Going first to John
Ekins to require his assistance being high constable, by virtue of
warrant from Sir Robert Banaster, the now sheriff, Ekins refused
except there should be occasion to use him, and being required to pay
the money assessed on himself he absolutely refused payment, and
chained up his stable door and put a lock thereon and his wife shut
the door of the house, so that no distress could be taken. Ekins
said that the writer should take no distress from him, but if
Mr. Tudor would, he should upon condition that he should enter
bond to try an action with him. [1 p.] |
March 2. |
18. Notes, by Nicholas, of business to be transacted by the Lords
of the Admiralty. Appointment to consider Mr. Bagnall's proposition
for renewing saltpetremen's deputations, for which purpose the Earl
of Newport is to meet the Lords. Mr. Thornhill and Mr. Blythe to
give account of the petre they have viewed. Appoint a day to
consider the accounts of the Vice-Admirals. [Margin, Monday
come sennight.] Mr. South has brought his proofs, and desires
letters of reprizal against the Spaniards. [Margin, Instructions
to be showed to the C. B. i.e. the Council Board]. Consider draft
commission for sale of gunpowder, and having approved it order
Mr. Attorney to prepare it for the King's signature. [Margin, Fiat.]
Consider Sir Henry Mervin's two letters about the Garland; also a
paper presented by the Spanish Ambassador, and his Majesty's
reference on Mr. Ackworth's petition. Officers of Navy recommend
Rabenett and Reuben [Brodd] to be masters and commanders in the
Greyhound and Roebuck. [Margin, Fiat.] Order what shall be done
on the Privy Seals for sale of the Anne Royal and Black George.
[Margin, Fiat.] [1 p.] |
March 2. |
19. Edward Boate to Nicholas. The warrant the writer's son
formerly had for his place of out-stores having been delivered to
the Officers cannot now be found (Mr. Edisbury having delivered it
to Mr. Fleming) wherefore the writer prays Nicholas to procure him
another, with some words added to prevent any question as to the
allowances the writer formerly had. The ships appointed for the
present expedition are in part taking in their victuals. Doubts
there is some mistake as to the Whelps. The First and Second are
completely made perfect in the Docks but are left out, the Fifth and
Tenth being appointed, the latter whereof is in so bad state that she
can hardly be made fit in time. [1 p.] |
March 2. |
20. Petition of Peter White to the Lords of the Admiralty.
Had been Master of divers of his Majesty's ships for 12 years and
never put his Majesty to the charge of a pilot, nor ever lost mast,
long boat, cable, or anchor, except one long boat when thwart of
Beachy in the Red Lion, in that hideous storm when the Rainbow
and the Bonaventure and many other ships were lost at Portsmouth,
and one anchor only, riding in the Vanguard at the South head of
Goodwin Sands by reason of the cables breaking, nor ever brought
any ship into danger until this unfortunate mischance of the Anne
Royal in which his own loss was exceeding great. Beseeches the
Lords to solicit his Majesty on his behalf for receiving him again
into his gracious favour, or if not that he may have the liberty that
other prisoners enjoy, which is to go abroad with a keeper for the
despatch of some affairs that mightily concern him. [½
p.] |
March 2. |
21. Petition of Gideon Morris, attorney for the owners of the
Swan frigate, of Flushing, to the same. On his application,
the Lords lately agreed that the Swan, now at sea in his
Majesty's service, should, on her return be "restituted" to petitioner, and an agreement made with him concerning the freight.
It being uncertain when the ship may come in, and he being
desirous to go home, he prays that an act may be delivered to him
of the said resolution, that he may show his principals, and that the
Commissioners of the Lords may agree with him as to the freight
before his departure. [¾
p.] |
March 2. |
22. Lords of the Admiralty to Sir Henry Marten. Upon notice
of wreck of Spanish money on the Isle of Wight, the Lords employed thither his Majesty's proctor, with a commission to seize the
same for his Majesty, by which means much money and silver were
found which the proctor has in his custody, and a good part is
already adjudged to his Majesty. The Vice-Admiral of that place
lays claim to the moiety thereof as due to him. Sir Henry is to
take such claim into his consideration and advise the Lords what is
the right of Vice-Admirals in such a case. [Seal of the Court of
Admiralty. 1 p.] |
March 2. Whitehall. |
Nicholas to Sir Maurice Abbot, Alderman of London. The Lords
of the Admiralty desired him and the rest of the committee for
setting forth the ships which the city was to find for guard of the
seas, to attend the King and the Lords on Sunday next at 2 o'clock,
in the Council Chamber at Whitehall, when the sheriffs of the city
were to be there; also, he was to bring with him a list of the three
ships agreed for that service, their burthens, number of men,
ordnance, &c. [Copy. Nicholas's Letter Book, Dom., James I.,
Vol. ccxix., p. 143. 2/3
p.] |
March 2. |
23. —, a messenger from Lord Carlisle, to Sec. Coke. The
Earl wishes Sir John to move the Lords [of the Admiralty] concerning the petition of Capt. Peter Canon. [½
p.] |
March 2. Ludlow Castle. |
24. Sir John Bridgeman, Chief Justice of Chester, to the same.
Received his letter of the 12th November last, concerning the
examination of a project of John Broughton, for making iron with
less expense of wood than heretofore. At the receipt thereof being
to continue in his Majesty's service at Ludlow, he wrote to the
verderors and some of the regarders of the Forest of Dean, to make
trial thereof and certify him thereon. Encloses their certificate.
Hears, by other persons, that the project is likely to conduce to his
Majesty's service. Conceives Mr. Broughton to be an honest and
discreet man. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] Enclosed, |
24. i. Certificate of the Verderors and some of the Regarders of
the Forest of Dean, of their visit to Mr. Broughton's
forge, and its favourable results, already calendared from
a copy thereof, placed under its date (Vol. cccxlvii., No. 32).
Little Deane, 17th February 1636–7. |
March 2. |
25. Petition of the Journeymen Printers, being freemen of the
city of London, to Archbishop Laud. Having heretofore made
known to the Archbishop divers grievances which they suffered
by the master printers through their breach of the decree made in
the Star Chamber concerning the business of printing, and also of
other private orders made by the master and wardens of the Company, they were remitted to the Bishop of London, who, by reason
of some emergent doubts, determining nothing, they addressed
themselves to the Company, who have thereupon composed certain
orders, which are stated to have been annexed. Petitioners submit their
case to the Archbishop's favourable consideration, and entreat that
he would have an eye to them as poor men, and if he thinks meet,
command these orders to be established by the master and wardens
of the Company, and the other old order to be revived, and all of
them to be recorded in some court of justice under a penalty for
breach thereof. [¾
p.] |
March 3. |
26. Petition of Sir Edward Lloyd and Rowland Pugh, the King's
farmers of the manors of Arrowystly and Kevelliock, co. Montgomery,
to the King. Petitioners are interested in the said manors during
the remainder of certain leases granted by the late King, and are
also seized of the inheritance by purchase,—Sir Edward Lloyd, of
Arrowystly, from Sir Thomas Middleton, deceased; and Rowland Pugh,
of Kevelliock, from Sir Thomas, the son;—both manors having been
sold by the King's Commissioners for 1,000l., in 1628, to Sir Thomas
Middleton, deceased, with reservation of [a rent of] 143l. 0s. 1d., to
the King. Francis Herbert, who was in competition for the purchase
with Matthew Price, Meredith Morgan, and some others, who are
questioned by petitioners for unjust encroachments upon part of the
said manors, have combined, with a common purse, to vex petitioners, and have instituted certain causeless suits against them in
Chancery, with an information in the Exchequer Chamber upon a
variety of untrue pretences. Pray the King to appoint any persons
whom he shall think fit to examine the matter, and take order for
petitioners' relief. [¾
p.] Underwritten, |
26. i. Reference to the Lord Keeper, the Lord Treasurer, and Lord
Cottington, or any two of them, calling to them the Attorney and Solicitor-General, to hear all parties and
compose the differences, or certify where the impediment
lies. Whitehall, 3rd March 1636–7. [¼
p.] |
March 3. |
27. Notes, by Sec. Windebank, "concerning Capt. Weddell's commission." Whether "they" should have 18 months to export their
goods. "The adventurers" to sell unserviceable ships. The exportation of 40,000l. in foreign gold or silver in five years. Whether
his Majesty will "consult it" publicly or have it despatched by
Mr. Attorney privately. [½
p.] |
March 3/13. Venice. |
28. Thomas Windebank to his father, Sec. Windebank. The ague
he left at Rome he found again at Venice, the very night of his
arrival. After two or three fits it changed into a quartan, which
has persecuted him ever since, and doctors and apothecaries still
worse; but they have indifferently recovered him, though they have
brought his purse to a consumption. Within three or four days he
means to go to Padua, and thence homewards. Hopes for letters at
Paris. Spinola has furnished him with 300 pieces of eight rials,
which comes to 67l. 10s. [1 p.] |
March 3/13. Venice. |
29. Francis Windebank to his father, Sec. Windebank. Reports
the intended removal of himself and his brother towards Paris. [¾
p.] |
March 4. |
30. Account by Edward Fenn of moneys received for ship-money
for the current year, since the 25th February 1636–7; total, 4,160l.
[⅓
p.] |
March 4. |
31. Account of all moneys paid in on account of the ship-money
for the current year; total, 43,054l. 13s. 2d.; with the further
sums received by the sheriffs and remaining in their hands; total,
25,498l.; in all, 68,552l. [1 p.] |
March 4. From the Ninth Lion's Whelp, riding at Bristol. |
32. William Brooke to Nicholas. They are ready to set sail for
Ireland, intending to take the first fair wind. Begs him to acquaint
Mr. Railton therewith, that "my Lord" [the Lord Deputy ?] may
be satisfied. Solicits Nicholas's favour to procure a purser's place
for his son-in-law. [¾
p.] |
March 4. |
33. Estimate of the charge of powder and other munition for
the Postmaster's frigate, the Speedy Post of London, appointed to
the seas in his Majesty's service; total, 130l. 15s. 5d. [2½
pp.] |
March 4. Aboard the Leopard. |
34. Capt. William Rainsborough to Capt. George Carteret,
captain of the Antelope. Long expected him before the writer had
news of him and thought long till his ship came down, which was
Tuesday, and then they told the writer he would be down that
night. Has all this while tarried for him, now his reputation lying
at the stake, in being likely to lose a fair wind, he resolves to set
sail this morning, but will go with an easy sail that Carteret may
fetch him up. Gives him directions for joining the fleet at Falmouth,
off the Lizard, or finally in the road of Sallee. Fears if he loses
this wind the men-of-war of Sallee will be out before they get there,
which would be a great prejudice to their employment. Encloses
general instructions. At their meeting will give him further
directions. [1 p.] Enclosed, |
34. i. Instructions given by William Rainsborough, Admiral
of the ships set forth for Sallee, to be observed by all
officers and common men in the fleet provided for this
expedition. Dated from the Leopard, riding in the
Downs, 4th March 1636–7. [5 pp.] |
March 4. |
35–36. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 5. Mincing Lane. |
37. Officers of the Navy to Nicholas. Capt. Harrison, captain
of the Hercules, one of the Sallee ships in the Downs, has sent the
names of about 30 seamen, pressed for that ship, who have neglected
their appearance. If some number of these could be taken and the
law executed on some now in the first of this year's service, it would
terrify all that heard of it and cause them to be wary of such
contempt. If any of the known ministers of the Navy should go
about it, the plot would be suddenly discovered and no good be done.
Suggests a warrant to some of the messengers of the chamber, as is
usual in cases of Jesuits or the like, to make search in known parts
about the Thames. What is to be done, the sooner the more likely.
[¾
p.] |
March 6. |
38. List of Captains in the Navy employed last year in the
King's service under the Earl of Northumberland, compiled for the
King's information, and in order that he might select from it such
as should be appointed in the fleet fitting out for the present year.
Some alterations were made in this list before it was fair copied for
presentation to the King. [Endorsed, under date of the 9th March
inst. is a list of 23 captains chosen by his Majesty for present
service. They were Sir John Pennington, Vice-admiral, Sir Henry
Mervin, Rear-admiral, Capt. Johnson, Sir Henry Mainwaring,
Walter Stuart, Thomas Ketelby, John Mennes, Povey, Richard Fogg,
David Murray, Henry Stradling, Lewis Kirke, Thomas Kirke,
Jeremy Brett, Richard Fielding, Price, Sir Elias Hickes, Robert
Slingsby, Lindsey, Fletcher, William Smith, Donnell, and Edward
Popham. =1¼
p.] |
March 6. Workington. |
39. Patricius Curwen, Sheriff of Cumberland, to Nicholas. Sends
certificate of the assessment of his county for the ship-money.
The greatest part is collected, and with all expedition will pay the
same to Sir William Russell. None refuse to pay save Mr. Samuel
Knipe, of the lordship of Millom, which the writer refers to his
Majesty's consideration. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] |
March 6. |
40. Receipt of Sir William Russell for 1,000l., paid by Sir James
Bagge on behalf of Sir Richard Buller, Sheriff of Cornwall, in part
of 5,500l. assessed on that county for ship-money, under writ of
12th August last. [¾
p.] |
[March 6.] |
41. Petition of Thomas Shave, soldier in Upnor Castle, Kent, to
the Lords of the Admiralty. Richard Tuck, petitioner's fellow
soldier at Upnor, has recovered against petitioner a debt of 20l.,
which petitioner is willing to pay but is not able to do it in one
payment as Tuck exacts. Prays them to order the payment thereof
in such proportions as they think fit, petitioner having little means
besides his stipend of 8d. a day. [½
p.] Annexed, |
41. i. Nicholas Bishop, Lieutenant of Upnor Castle, to Nicholas.
Certifies to the honest behaviour of Thomas Shave, who
has been six years at Upnor. Upnor Castle, 6th March
1636–7. [1 p.] |
March 6. |
42. Officers of the Navy to Nicholas. Mr. Goddard, one of the master
shipwrights, has written of the insufficiency of the Turkish frigate,
formerly certified by James Robins that she might have been made
serviceable for 57l. Goddard estimates the charge at 160l., and yet
she will be but a weak thing. The case being thus, the writers
suggest, that there being stores of timber at Portsmouth, a new
pinnace should be built by the middle of May, which would not
exceed 500l. for the bull. [¾
p.] |
March 6. Mincing Lane. |
43. Kenrick Edisbury to Nicholas. When the fleet was at sea
last summer, not knowing which or how many were to be prepared
for this year, the Officers certified that the Garland might have gone,
with the Triumph, into dock at Deptford, so that they might
have been launched together. But the Garland having continued
at sea, she may now be sooner repaired at Chatham and save the
charge of transporting her to and from Deptford. The dock at
Chatham is free and may very well receive the Red Lion and
Garland. Prays him to move the Lords thereon. P.S. If Sir John
Pennington appoint no new business to be made in the Swiftsure,
now he has gone to Chatham (by his Majesty's command as Edisbury
conceives she may be fitted in 14 days after warning. [Seal with
arms. ¾
p.] |
March 6. Oxford. |
44. Dr. John Prideaux to Archbishop Laud. Was confident
that his brother Goodwin would prevail little in such a cause, before
such a Judge, after true information given, for the Archbishop's
acceptation of which he is engaged to be always thankful. Wishes
that after all this Goodwin could be sensible of his wanderings. Will
be ready to further him in any good cause. Mr. Chillingworth's
answer he has only heard of. When Dr. Potter returns the writer
will acquaint him with the Archbishop's pleasure. In that, or any
other thing wherein his endeavours may be serviceable for the
Church or common good, no man shall be more ready to execute the
Archbishop's commands. [Endorsed by William Dell: "Dr. Prideaux
his undertaking to revise Mr. Chillingworth's book, &c." 1 p.] |
March 6. |
45–47. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 7. Westminster. |
48. Warrant for payment of 238l. to Réné Augier, agent and
secretary of the King's Ambassador in France, for his extraordinary
expenses, post of letters, and voyages from Paris to the French
Court from 1st August 1636 to the 13th February last past, and
also for his journey into England in January last. [10 lines on
parchment.] |
March 7. |
49. Justices of Peace for Norfolk to the Council. In Christmas
last past there were brought down into Norfolk three letters from
the Lords, intended as the writers presume for the three limits of the
county. One directed to Sir William Denny, Dr. Corbet, Chancellor
of Norwich, and Thomas Knivett which concerned the limit of
Norwich; one other to Sir William Yelverton, Robert Bacon, and
Robert Walpole, intended for the limit of Lynn, but Sir William
Yelverton deceased about four years since, and Bacon and Walpole,
although formerly in the commission of the peace, were never sworn
and for some years have been out of the commission. The third
letter was directed to Sir Roger Townsend, Sir Hamon le Strange,
and John Coke, which concerned the limit of Walsingham, but Sir
Roger Townsend was deceased, and John Coke for some years out
of the commission. Sir Hamon le Strange had declared these
things at the assizes at Thetford that day, where by reason that
formerly the Lords had made a general declaration of the matter
of maltsters, the writers had consulted what answer might be returned,
which by a schedule therewith sent they offer to the Lords. [Signed
by 18 Justices. Copy. 1 p.] Enclosed, |
49. i. Breviat of the objections made to the new proposals
respecting maltsters, by the gentlemen of Norfolk, with
references to answers thereto. If it be considered by the
Lords upon these objections that the observing of some of
the articles is not so fit for Norfolk as for other counties,
they pray the Lords to dispense with the observing of such
articles for that county. [½
p.] |
March 7. |
50. Sir John Carleton, Sheriff of co. Cambridge, to Nicholas.
Sends certificate of the assessment of his county. No man refuses
to pay, but they are backward and slow, as men that are loth to
part with their money. He has received 1,000l., of which he is
very desirous to be discharged as soon as he has order for it. He
hopes to have as much more within this month. [Seal with crest.
1 p.] |
March 7. Melay. |
51. William Wynne, Sheriff of co. Denbigh, to the same. Sends
certificate of the assessment of his county. There be considerable
sums unlevied. He hopes very shortly to bring the same in, and
then without delay will pay the amount to Sir William Russell,
having no secure way to pay the money as he receives it, in regard
of eight score miles distance from London, the danger of passage,
and in that country (unless in summer time by drovers) there are no
tradesmen that use to make return of money. P.S.—There being
very few of the clergy for a personal estate considerable to bear share
in the assessment, it was not thought of any avail for their temporal
means at all to charge them. [2 pp.] |
March 7. |
52. Examination of Edmund Chillingden, apprentice to George
Kendall, and prisoner in the Compter in the Poultry, taken before
Sir John Lambe, Sir Charles Cæsar, Dr. Duck, and Mr. Bray. One
Rice Boy, dwelling in Coleman Street, came about October or
November to this examinant, and asked him whether he could help
him away with some books that he had, of News from Ipswich and
the Divine Tragedy, that lay on his hand. Deponent told him
that he had some acquaintance in Norwich, and thereupon Rice
Boy delivered him 50 of each of the said books, all which deponent
sent to John Penton at Norwich, with a letter, to be sold. Penton
shortly after wrote to examinant to send him the second part of
the said News, whereupon he inquired of Rice Boy for the said
second part, but he could not tell of any such. He was to pay
Rice Boy 2d. a piece for the News from Ipswich and about 6d.
for the Divine Tragedy, and was to receive from Penton 3d. for
the News and 8d. for the Divine Tragedy. [1¼
p.] |
March 7. |
53. Richard Farnam, a prisoner in Newgate, to Archbishop Laud.
A petition similar in many respects to that of the 23rd February
last (Vol. cccxlviii., No. 13). He states that he petitioned once before
that he might come to his trial, but that the Archbishop would not
vouchsafe to read the petition that was delivered into his hand,
after he understood who the petitioner was, but gave this answer to
the party that presented the petition, that she might deliver the
petition where she would, for he would neither meddle with
the petition nor with the petitioner. Remonstrates against a
decision which he affirms to be neither true justice nor true religion,
and argues that the Archbishop had no sound religion in him.
If he will not bring him to his trial, solicits him to send his pursuivant and free him out of prison, and leave him in Long Lane,
where he found him, near Whittington's Cat. At that time petitioner
had a house to put his head in, now he has none and his children
are dispersed abroad; two of them the parish has taken, and the
others a poor widow has received into her house. His resolution is,
whatsoever he has written he will stand to maintain it to be truth
against all the learned men in the world. He intimates, as before,
that if he cannot obtain his request he intends to petition the King,
and concludes with a prayer for the Archbishop, if he belongs to
God's election: "for it is a sin to pray that the Lord would change
his decree." [¾
p.] |
March 7. West Dean. |
54. Dr. Matthew Nicholas to his brother, Edward Nicholas. Had
seen Edward Nicholas's friend Ashburnham with the Captain his
brother there in Dean with Sir John Evelyn, but the writer could
not draw them down to his house. Understands that there is some
hope that Mr. Love may sell his farm of Norton. It will be a good
pennyworth. Mr. Glanville being at the Assizes, sent to speak
with the writer to acquaint him that he is at an agreement with
Mr. Wroughton and Mr. Constable for the parsonage of Broad
Hinton, and that he desires to change those lives of the Wroughtons
in being for two of his own children and to add a third. The writer
gave his consent, but Glanville voluntarily gave him respite to consider the value. Begs Nicholas's advice thereon. Chief Justice
Finch at the last Assizes at Salisbury laid upon the Hospital of
St. Nicholas to repair Harnham Bridge before Michaelmas under a
penalty of 50l. The hospital was not indicted for it alone, the
Close of Sarum and the neighbouring country were included in the
same indictment, but he laid the load on the poor for the present,
saying they should have a trial for the right when the bridge was
repaired. A man more experienced could not have thought of so
hard measure. No one had anything to plead for exemption but
the hospital. He will pass through Salisbury on his return the
29th inst., and the writer intends to move him to reverse his order
until the business be tried. If he cannot prevail he believes he
shall not make any purchase with the money he shall have from
Mr. Glanville. The writer has had conference with Sir John
Evelyn concerning taking up his tithes in kind. He gave a very
fair answer, but wished they might continue this year whilst he is
full of trouble, to which the writer agreed. The other difference,
concerning the exchange of glebe, they had agreed to refer, if
they could think of an indifferent man. [Seal with arms. 2 pp.] |
March 7. |
55. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 8. Westminster. |
56. Warrant for payment of 300l. to William, Earl of Denbigh,
Master of the Great Wardrobe, to be paid by him to Robert Hutcheson in part of a debt of 653l. due to him as perfumer to the late
King, for wares delivered and other services done to the said late
King. [14 lines on parchment.] |
March 8. Westminster. |
57. Similar warrant for payment of 260l. to the same, to be paid
by him to Thomas Lisle, on behalf of Anne his wife, widow of
Alexander Hume deceased, who was shoemaker to the late King, it
appearing by certificate of Sir Bevis Thelwall, that such 260l. was
due to the said Alexander Hume, for wares by him delivered for
the use of his said late Majesty. [13 lines on parchment.] |
March 8. Westminster. |
58. Order of the King in Council. A petition was read of the
Lord Chamberlain, Governor of the Royal Fishings of Great Britain,
and Sir Thomas Roe, Chancellor of the Order, his deputy, made a
relation how the stock first raised had been employed, what returns
had been made, what losses had been sustained, and what courses had
been settled for the better management in the future. It was resolved
that this trade is very honourable and necessary for the kingdom,
and likely to prove beneficial for the adventurers now "that the
true management thereof is by experience discovered." His Majesty
declared his resolve on all occasions to assist this trade and to
accept the forwardness of those who expressed zeal therein. For a
pledge of his favour he gives the governor and adventurers one of
his own ships, and it was ordered that all the adventurers in
arrear of their subscriptions, should before the 1st April pay
the same to John Harrison, Treasurer of the Company. [Copy.
1 p.] |
March 8. Westminster. |
59. The King to Lord Treasurer Juxon, the Earls of Lindsey and
Dorset, Lord Cottington, Sir Henry Vane, and Secs. Coke and
Windebank, and the Commissioners of the Admiralty for the time
being. The King having assumed into his own hands all the
saltpetre in the kingdom to be converted into gunpowder, and being
minded to sell to such of his subjects as desire the same so much
thereof as shall not be necessary for his own service, and being also
minded that the making of saltpetre and the sale thereof shall be
hereafter managed by the same persons, recites the contract
recently made with Samuel Cordewell and George Collins as
gunpowder makers, and authorizes the Commissioners appointed
by this commission to give warrant from time to time to the
Master of the Ordnance to sell out of the King's stores, to such
persons as the Commissioners shall direct, such quantities as shall
be required, at 1s. 6d. per pound, the money to be paid to the
Lieutenant of the Ordnance and to be accounted for in the way
prescribed in this commission. [Copy. ¾
p.] |
March 8. |
60. Consent of Edward, Earl of Dorset, to a grant to Thomas
Twysden of the Inner Temple for the lives of Richard Crane and
Robert Willett, clerk. [½
p.] |
March 8. Widdrington. |
61. Sir William Widdrington, Sheriff of Northumberland, to
Nicholas. The constables in that place are much meaner than in
other parts of the kingdom, both in respect of quality and abilities;
he had therefore appointed meetings in every division with the
justices of peace, whither were summoned two of the ablest men in
every parish, with the parsons and constables, and according to
information thus received he had assessed every parish. As soon as
the whole money is collected he will be with Nicholas and give him
the account required. On the 20th February he received 270l.,
which with what more he shall receive in the interim he will bring
up in the beginning of Easter Term, it not being in his power to get
the money returned sooner. [Seal with arms. 1¼
p.] |
March 9. Westminster. |
62. Warrant for payment of 800l. to Sir Richard Wynne,
Treasurer to the Queen, to be employed for the use of her Majesty.
[Nine lines on parchment.] |
March 9. |
63. Bond of Sir John Wentworth of Somerleyton, Suffolk,
Robert Melling of the same place, esquire, and John Wentworth of
Lincoln's Inn, to his Majesty in 500l., conditioned for the appearance
of Sir John Wentworth before the Council, on six days notice left
at Somerleyton. [1 p.] |
March 9. |
Form of letter to be sent by Nicholas to the Churchwardens of
various parishes in London and Westminster. Sends a copy of an
order of the Council, with the names of persons in every parish who
have compounded for buildings erected contrary to the King's
proclamations. The Lords desire the churchwardens to send for
these persons into their vestry and there to read to them the order
which they are required to observe at their perils. [Letters in this
form were sent to 15 parishes on this day, and to nine other parishes
on the 14th of March. Nicholas's Letter Book, Dom. James I.,
Vol. ccxix., p. 143.] |
March 9. From his house at Parke. |
64. William Lewis [of] Anwill, Sheriff of co. Carnarvon, to
Nicholas. His deputy-sheriff will prepare the required account.
Has received 400l. and all shall be brought to London, together with
the certificate. Carnarvon is so far from London that he hopes he
may be tolerated from sending the money up by piece meals and in
sending every fortnight a certificate. It shall be all paid in Easter
term. [1 p.] |
March 9. |
65. Receipt of Sir William Russell for 2,500l. paid by George
Buller on behalf of Sir Richard Buller, Sheriff of Cornwall, in part
of 5,500l. ship-money charged on that county under writ of 12th
August last. [¾
p.] |
March 9. |
66. List of Captains of the Navy employed last year under the
Earl of Northumberland. [Endorsed by Nicholas, "This is a
copy of the list that was then presented to the King." 1 p.] |
March 9. |
67. Answer of John Crane, Surveyor of Marine Victuals, to the
particulars complained of to his Majesty and the Council concerning
the badness of the victuals this last year, 1636. After a minute
reply to the several items of complaint which had been made, he
informs the Lords that in victualling the King's ships he deals with
the most able, honest, and substantial men of their trades in
London, and those that are of the most experience in the victualling
of the Navy, and that he gives valuable prices and provides his
victuals in the most seasonable times of the year. Invites them
to appoint some men of experience in sea causes to examine the
beef and pork now in his Majesty's stores, and all the rest of the
provisions as they are sent to the ships, to prevent future complaints.
And to give orders to the Officers of the Navy to appoint sufficient
men to approve of the victuals as it shall be put aboard, to the end
that in future cases of fault the blame may be laid on those who
are appointed to take care of the victuals. [3 pp.] |
March 9. |
68. Petition of Thomas Thornhill, saltpetre maker for London, to
the Lords of the Admiralty. Petitioner having contracted with
Edward Lee of Harwich, master of the Elizabeth, and John Moore
of Redriffe, master of the William, for transporting coals from
Newcastle to London for his Majesty's saltpetre works, prays
warrant that none of the men employed in that service may be
pressed. [½
p.] |
March 9. London. |
69. [Lord Treasurer Juxon] to the Officers of the Customs in the
port of London. To provide the deputy of the town of Southampton
a room in the Custom House, London, for the collection of the duty
of 20s. per butt on malmsies and other sweet wines brought into the
port of London. [Unsigned; perhaps only a suggestion; see
Vol. cccxlvi., No. 49. =1½
p.] |
March 9. |
70.–73. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 10. Rushton. |
74. Charles Cockayne, late Sheriff of co. Northampton, to Sir
William Becher. Is enforced once more to send his servant to
attend the Lords touching warrants for levying the arrears of
ship-money. Except he may have a supply of warrants from the
present High-sheriff they shall not be able to effect the service.
He has but one warrant to employ his servants and that no way
directed to them. And withal, except a servant of the writer's be
present, no officer will do any service; moreover all high constables
and most petty constables absolutely refuse to make any distresses,
so as the burden lies wholly on Sir John Dryden and the writer.
There are some high constables that slight the service as this bearer
can testify. [Seal with arms. ¾
p.] |
March 10. Glyne in Merionethshire. |
75. William Wynne, Sheriff of Merioneth, to Nicholas. The
certificate of the assessment shall be sent by Easter Term, together
with the ship-money, if he can receive the whole by that time.
Has not yet paid in to Sir William Russell, which he hopes will be
excused, Merionethshire being so far off. [Seal with arms. ½
p.] |
March 10. |
76. Receipt of Sir William Russell for 700l. paid by William
Lowther on behalf of Francis, Earl of Cumberland, Sheriff of
Westmorland, being the sum charged on that county for ship-money
under writ of 12th August last. [¾
p.] |
March 10. |
77. Receipt, by Henry Kyme, messenger, for 15 of the letters
from Nicholas, to the churchwardens of several parishes in and
about London calendared under date of 9th March inst., with
further underwritten receipt of George Lewis, dated the 14th inst.,
for nine more of the same letters. [1 p.] |
March 10. Mincing Lane. |
78. Officers of the Navy to Lords of the Admiralty. Having
been eye-witnesses and received notice of how dangerously the
Vanguard and Rainbow ride at Chatham, "sewing" every tide, pray
warrant for removing them, without putting his Majesty to the
charge of entering into sea victual before the rest of the fleet. [1 p.] |
March 10. Office of Ordnance. |
79. Officers of the Ordnance to the same. By order of
the 2nd inst. the writers were required to certify the state of the
ordnance provisions for the two new pinnaces to be employed
against the Turks in Sallee, as also for the 20 ships designed for guard
of the Narrow Seas. The estimate for the 20 ships amounting to
19,758l. 16s. 2d., whereof 2,556l. 12s. 0d. is for store and 17,202l. 4s. 2d.
for emptions, was left with Mr. Nicholas, but no part of the money
being yet issued, the merchants refuse to deliver the provisions, by
reason of the great arrears which are owing to them. For the two
pinnaces, Mr. Browne, his Majesty's founder, assures them that the
ordnance will be ready by the time allotted, which is Lady Day.
[¾
p.] |
March 10. |
80. John Nicholas to his son, Edward Nicholas. Sends him a
copy of a condition in an old lease to satisfy counsel whether the
bishop's re-entry were legal. The question is whether if that be
not legal, the writer surrendering the lease to this bishop he may
not make a good lease to Edward Nicholas. Enters at length into
the legal difficulties, and concludes that this bishop will do any thing
for the writer, but he fears some about him will be apt enough (to
win favour of his successor) to put some thing into his head to
question the lease, and the clergy will have favour in their suits,
their colour being for the Church. [1 p.] |
March 10/20. Venice. |
81. Pass or letters commendatory of Basil, Viscount Fielding,
ambassador from the King of Great Britain to the Princes and
States of Italy in favour of Thomas and Francis Windebank, sons
of Sir Francis Windebank, Privy Councillor to the King of Great
Britain, who are journeying to England. [Latin. Seal of Lord
Fielding attached. 1 p.] |
March 10. London. |
82. Sir Thomas Roe to Bernhard, Duke of Saxe Weimar. Having
been victorious over his enemies, he has descended into the shades
to subjugate by his courtesy the minds who dared not aim at the
greatness of being reckoned among the number of his servants.
Roe will not deny himself the honour to which all men of honour
aspire, and therefore prays to be admitted among those who admire
his great qualities and heroic renown. [French. Copy. ½
p.] |
March 10. London. |
The same to Mons. de Ponice. The noble knight, the bearer, is
despatched to make trial of the generosity of France, the stay of
princes oppressed by tyranny. It is reasonable to hope that the
offer of such a prince, the first in Germany, will be received with
welcome. That will be the surest means to oblige the King, Roe's
master, who is warmly inclined towards the Prince Elector, and all
his friends. It will be for de Ponice to drive that nail to its head.
He commends the cause to the prudence and skill of de Ponice and
the management of this gallant gentleman. [Written on the same
paper as the preceding. French. Copy. 2/3
p.] |
March 10. |
83.–86. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 11. |
Grant to John Glassington of the forfeiture of a lease by the outlawry of Edward Foxley, until a debt of 140l. be satisfied. [Docquet.] |
March 11. Dodington. |
87. Sir Thomas Delves, Sheriff of co. Chester, to Nicholas. Has
had much trouble about the ship-money, from private wranglings
betwixt neighbours, and difficulties to judge of moneys personal,
which change from moneys to inheritance daily. He finds no
great men to stand out against the assessment, but the moneys
come slowly in by reason of the badness of trading. He has
received 957l., which he has endeavoured to return but cannot
accomplish it unless he gives two months time, but he hopes to pay
it wholly in before that time. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
March 11. Pileton. |
88. Sir Edward Littleton, Sheriff of co. Stafford, to the same.
With much difficulty caused the high constables to bring in these
assessments which are according to the customary taxes of the
county. They were very unwilling that he should lay upon them
the last 1,000l. Much fearing them, something, but little, he laid
upon the country, by reason of the clergy having many prebends,
and their moneys not easy to gather. If any of them should stand
out, there being no distress of many of them to be taken, he prays
direction what way he shall take. What is overcharged shall be
equally repaid. Has received some more moneys which he has
taken order for returning. Has taken order for distresses, which
are hundreds; besides John Cocks, high constable of Seisden
hundred, who has not paid in any money nor brought in his
assessment. Doubts be shall trouble Nicholas with him before long.
[1 p.] Enclosed, |
88. i. Account of assessment of co. Stafford. Lichfield was rated
at 150l., the Close at 10l., and Stafford at 30l. The
parishes are mostly thrown into groups of two, three, or
more, and one amount set upon the whole. [Paper roll.] |
88. ii. Separate assessment of the clergy. The Dean and Chapter
of Lichfield are taxed at 13l. 15s. 5d. and a separate
sum upon each of 29 prebends. [The like.] |
March 11. |
89. Account, by Edward Fenn, of sums received for the current
ship-money since the last certificate; total 2,159l. [½
p.] |
March 11. |
90. Account of the whole sum received and levied on the same
account; total received 45,213l. 13s. 2d.; levied but not yet paid
in, 26,684l. [1 p.] |
March 11. |
91. Sir Francis Nethersole to Mr. Savile. Requests him to pay
Robert Osbolston 100l. on Sir Francis's annuity of 200l. due upon a
debenture for the half year ended Michaelmas 10th Charles I. [½
p.] |
March 12. Sarsden. |
92. William Walter, Sheriff of co. Oxford, to Nicholas. Presently
after his last letter, wherein were inclosed the refusing answers of
the chief constables of the hundreds of Bloxham and Banbury to
assess the towns within their divisions, he received the like answers
from the petty constables in those hundreds to his warrants for
assessing the particular persons within their parishes, he having
himself assessed the towns. Whereupon he summoned them
together and went into those parts to meet them, where he prevailed so far that he has gathered instructions to make up a book
for certifying what is set upon each parish and upon every clergyman.
This book is delivered to the undersheriff to be conveyed to
Nicholas's hands. Has not collected above 400l., and his undersheriff much less. Banbury, Woodstock, Chipping Norton, and
Burford are backward, whereof the two last now begin to dispute
the extent of their liberties, which has also troubled the business in
the hundreds, but he has taken order that on both sides the money
shall be deposited until the state of the question be agreed upon,
and then he will petition for the opinion of the Lords, for that their
common payments in the county (which is the rule given him to
resolve such questions by) are in some cases the same and in others
differ. The leaving this undecided has been one of the errors in the
last year's proceedings which has retarded those of the writer.
[1½
p.] |
March 12. |
93. Officers of the Navy to all masters of his Majesty's ships,
prestmasters, and others appointed to press for the Navy. The
Prosperous of London, now in the Thames, is bound for the
Straits, and at present laden with "merchandizeing goods," but by
reason her men are daily taken from her she cannot proceed thereon,
which tends to the disadvantage of his Majesty's customs, and a
great prejudice to the merchants by hindering commerce. His
Majesty having signified his pleasure that his subjects should not
suffer in this particular, the persons addressed are to forbear pressing
any of the 50 men whose names are mentioned on the other side.
[1 p.] Annexed, |
93. i. List of the 50 men above mentioned. [=2/3
p.] |
March 12. Southampton. |
94. William Hapgood to William Watkins at Twickenham. The
writer and his sister Rigges, with the assent of Mr. Watkins, a
brother of the person addressed, entreat him to procure a warrant
for 32 men bound for Newfoundland on a fishing voyage, in the
Charity of Southampton, master, Richard Gardner; charges and
"gratulation" shall be paid. [1 p.] Enclosed, |
94. i. Names of the 32 men above mentioned. [1 p.] |
March 13. |
95. The King to the Mayor and Chief Officers of Worcester.
The King is given to understand that the service in the quire of the
cathedral there is very much neglected and almost utterly deserted
by all that are of the best rank in the city. It is the King's
pleasure, as well for the solemnity of God's service, as the preservation of due honour to the cathedral, being the Mother Church, as
also for the maintenance of the public and outward state of the
corporation, that the mayor and his successors, with the aldermen and
all the chief officers of the city, shall not cease from time to time
upon all Sundays and other holy days, morning and evening, to
repair to the beginning of the Divine Service, and then to hear the
sermon, after the manner observed in London, and therein they may
not fail, without sufficient cause to be approved by the Diocesan or
in his absence by the Dean, to whose cognizance the King commits
the continual care thereof. And whilst in that holy place, they are
expected to carry themselves as becomes them in all obedience and
conformity to the canons of the Church and to the reverend customs
of that and other cathedrals. This royal injunction is to be entered
among the acts of their city, and a copy to be delivered to the Dean
and Chapter to remain upon record in their registry, and by them
to be transmitted to the registrar of the bishop. [Copy. 1 p.] |
March 13. Whitehall. |
96. Minute of order of the King in reference to some proceedings
in the Court of Honour "touching Mr. Copley," as is stated in the
endorsement. The King well considers the most immediate relation
which this court has to his own person, and will be very sparing in
granting appeals. For this particular, that there may be expedition
used for his Majesty to see the truth, and for saving charges to the
petitioner, his Majesty is pleased that the Earls of Northumberland
and Dorset, Mr. Comptroller [Sir Henry Vane] and Sec. Windebank
shall hear whether, upon the proof made before the Earl Marshal,
the petitioner has just cause of appeal from the sentence, as also
shall examine petitioner's carriage and behaviour in the prosecution
of the business, to the end that if there be just cause his Majesty
may admit the appeal, or otherwise remand him back to the Earl
Marshal for putting the sentence in execution. [Copy. ½
p.] |
March 13. |
97. Notes, by Nicholas, of business to be transacted by the
Lords of the Admiralty. Appoint when ships now at sea shall
come in. Officers of the Navy and the Victualler attend with
answers to complaints of abuses in the Navy and the Fleet of last
year. [Margin by the Lord Treasurer, Respectuatur.] Hear
commission for sale of gunpowder and give order what shall be
done thereupon. The Lords appointed to consider accounts of Viceadmirals. [Margin by Lord Treasurer, Respectuatur]. What
shall be done with the Turkish frigate which came from Hurst
Castle; also upon Mr. Ackworth's petition for reversion of the
office of Clerk of the Navy. [1 p.] |
March 13. |
98. Answer of Sir William Russell, Treasurer of the Navy, to
sundry articles objected against him and John Holland, his paymaster. These are the articles adduced by the Earl of Northumberland on his return in October 1636 from the command of the fleet.
They principally relate to some alleged hardships upon the sailors in
the mode of payment; to a per-centage of 2s. in the pound deducted
upon advances; and to the retention in the hands of the treasurer
of sums owing to the chest at Chatham. The articles and answers
are both here stated. [4½
pp.] |
March 13. |
99. Answer of the Officers of the Navy to similar articles adduced
against them. The articles related to the state of the King's ships
and their cordage, the mean kind of persons employed as pressmasters, the impropriety of laying into ships so large a quantity
as six months' store of victuals, and the necessity for sending out a
treasurer with the Fleet. [3 pp.] |
March 13. |
100. Return by the same, of the names of all his Majesty's ships
not appointed to go forth to sea for this year's service, with the
reasons of their non-employment. [1 p.] |
March 13. Whitehall. |
101. Orders of the Lords of the Admiralty as Commissioners for
the Sale of Gunpowder, that there should be taken by the Clerk of
the Council for drawing, getting signed, and registering a warrant for
sale of a last of gunpowder, or under, 13s. 4d., and no more, and if
it be above a last, at the rate of 13s. 4d. a last, and the Clerk of the
Ordnance and Clerk of the Stores should take a similar fee, and no
more, for keeping the accounts of powder sold. [½
p.] |
March 13. |
102. Draft of the same by Nicholas. [¾
p.] |
March 13. |
103. John Daulby and William Halford, High Constables of
Rothwell hundred, to Sir Robert Banaster, Sheriff of co. Northampton, at his house at Passenham. Upon the "general's" complaint of almost their whole hundred of Rothwell, of the inequality
of their former tax for the ship-moneys, they have, according to the
direction of his warrant, made a new tax, which they send him, with
the manner and way of taxing, which they hope will please the
whole hundred. Pray him to return the former tax, and a warrant
to levy according to this new one, made upon the true value of all
the lands in the hundred. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
March 13. |
Petition of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Citizens of Worcester to
Archbishop Laud. Within the city of Worcester there are nine
parishes, whereof many of the incumbents are not preaching
ministers, whereby a great many of his Majesty's subjects are
not so well instructed in the Word of God as they ought to have
been. For remedy whereof the citizens, at their charge, with the
consent of the bishop, and without exception of the dean and
chapter, for many years past made choice of a learned preacher in the
cathedral, to preach every Sunday after evening prayer done at the
parish churches, and before evening service in the cathedral, there
being no parish church sufficient to contain half the company that
resorted thereunto, and would willingly continue but they are
restrained by Mr. Dean, and the cause alleged is that they did
not on Sundays and other festival days resort to the quire prayers
in the cathedral, whereof, as soon as they were admonished, they
presently did, and will apply themselves to be conformable to what
the Archbishop shall command. Therefore they pray that they may
continue their former liberty, and present to the bishop a sufficient
preacher to preach in the cathedral. [Fragments of the Common
Seal attached. Case D., Car., I., No. 12.] |
March 13. West Dean. |
104. Dr. Matthew Nicholas to his brother Edward Nicholas.
He was inducted into the prebend of Wherwell and read his articles
on Friday last, and there remains nothing more to be done (if the
young Lady Lawarr do not prosecute her pretended title) than the
writer's thanks to his noble patron. The old Lady Lawarr withdrew
her caveat and the young lady sent in no man at the day appointed by
the bishop to show her title, whereupon the bishop took a bond of
200l. of the writer to save him harmless and gave him institution.
The writer's father tells him that Dr. Henchman informed him that
the bargain being made between Mr. Ashburnham and Mr. Strode in
Edward Nicholas's house for the parsonage, he interposed on the
writer's behalf for the prebend His intelligence was by one
Mr. Hinton, a neighbour to Mr. Ashburnham, who was an importunate suitor for the prebend. Ashburnham intends to survey
Laverstock again, but the writer urges Edward Nicholas to see it
himself. Gives him particulars of another purchase within three
miles of Hungerford; the name of the place is Fosbury. It is a
lease for 32 years in the possession of Mr. Mullens, a recusant, and
holden of Edward Skilling, the value of 300l. per annum, the price
3,600l., Lord Gorges is also selling New Court. Acquainted his
cousin Lane of the hope Edward Nicholas had to get him sworn the
King's servant, if he desired it. He intends to make use of it to
keep off Toomer whose demands are unreasonable. Great grief
throughout the family at the bad circumstances of "brother
Butterworth," who seemed to desire Edward Nicholas to procure
him a protection, which was thought to be neither just nor feasible.
The writer intends to christen his child the next week. His intended gossips are his cousin Polden, his sister Kate, and Mr. Davy.
[2 pp.] |
March 13. |
105–6. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 14. Westminster. |
107. Warrant for payment of 1,869l. 2s. 3d., to Edward Bradburne,
silkman, being the amount of three accounts, one of 1,326l. 1s. 8d., for
gold and silk laces and fringes delivered for the King's service in the
stables, in 1633, and certified by the Earl of Denbigh, Master of
the Great Wardrobe; another account of 374l. 12s. 11d. for gold
and silver fringes for making "a caroch" for the Queen against
May Day 1636, certified by Lyming Dickenson; and a third account
of 168l. 7s. 8d. for suits and cloaks for the footmen, coachmen, and
postilions of the Queen against May Day, certified by Sir Gregory
Fenner. [19 lines on parchment.] |
March 14. Whitehall. |
108. Copy of the form of letter to be addressed by Nicholas to
various churchwardens, already calendared under date of the 9th
inst. The present copy was intended to be addressed to the churchwardens of a parish in Blackfriars, and, besides a list of the compounders for buildings in that parish, who were to be specially
affected by it, has prefixed to the letter a copy of the order of council
of the 25th January 1636–7 which is referred to in the letter. [1½
p.] |
March 14. His Majesty's fort at Plymouth. |
109. Capt. Thomas Ketelby to [Sec. Windebank]. Sends under
cover to the Secretary a letter for Sir James Bagg, which much
concerns him. The Nicodemus is returned from the western coast.
Her captain and company report her to be the most absolute sailer in
the world. She runs from every ship she sees (to use the captain's
own words) as a greyhound does from a little dog. On the 6th they
met the Leopard and the two merchant ships bound for Sallee, off
the Lizard, who had the day before convoyed a ship with ammunition
into Falmouth, but the Antelope they saw not. But she touched
at Plymouth and took in some men she wanted and went hence the
7th inst. [1 p.] |
March 14. |
110. Certificate of Sir Henry Palmer, that having received order
from the Lords of the Admiralty to take bond of Capt. Goodlad,
employed by the Greenland Company, not to carry in the said
voyage any men belonging to his Majesty's fleet then ready in the
Hope, he had done so, and that having taken Goodlad's musterbooks from him, and examined them, he had found none of his men
to have been pressed into his Majesty's service. [½
p.] |
March 14. Mincing Lane. |
111. The same to Nicholas. The shipwrights who build the two
new pinnaces have acquainted the Officers of the Navy that they
intend on the Monday then next to launch them. There being none
as yet warranted to take charge of them, the writer desires that the
masters appointed for them may have order to that purpose. Expected to have heard somewhat concerning the five ships they
nominated yesterday to the Lords. Unless the resolution be
speeded they will not be able in the time proposed to perform the
service. [Seal with crest. ½
p.] |
March 14. "My lodging." |
112. Anthony Langston to Mr. Pike, servant to Lord Bayning.
Angry letter, complaining of ill usage, and requesting Pike to pay
the 40l. remaining in his hands to Sir Thomas Baker. [Underwritten is a memorandum that the payment was made to Sir
Thomas Baker and Mr. Herring on the 18th inst. 1 p.] |
March 14. |
113–114. See "Returns made by Justices of Peace." |
March 15. |
115. Examination of Humphrey Dymock, taken by Nicholas, as
Clerk of the Council. Examinant states that his brother, Edward
Dymock, being employed by Humphrey Fullwood, about three or
four years since, to keep the papers belonging to the Council chest
when examinant was sick, delivered to one Neland, a bookseller,
one book of entries of the Acts of Council in the reign of Edward VI.,
which book examinant understanding to be in Neland's hands, he
repaired to him for the same, when he told him that he had lent
examinant's brother 5s. upon the same, and that there was a gentleman would buy the said book, and afterwards Neland brought him
Mr. Hall, belonging to Sir Thomas Fanshawe's office, who gave
examinant 4l. for the same. [¾
p.] |
March 15. |
116. Petition of the persons whose names are to the annexed certificate subscribed, and others of the parish of St. Giles-in-the-Fields,
Middlesex, to the Council. Most humbly deploring the miserable
estate they are in by the great increase of those of the Romish church
in the said parish, where they are so exceedingly multiplied that
in that part of the parish called Bloomsbury there are as many or
more than Protestants. Pray the care of the Council of a reformation.
[Endorsed, "Newton's petition in name of the officers of St. Giles's."
¾
p.] Annexed, |
116. i. William Haywood, rector, George Hope and George Nurse,
churchwardens, and John Hyde, constable, of St.-Gilesin-the-Fields, to the Council. Certify, at the instance of
Francis Newton, one of the messengers, that by the instigation of Henry Morse, a Jesuit, John Souther, a prisoner
in the Gatehouse, and James Smithson, a prisoner in
Newgate, certain persons who are under-named, and
many others, had been drawn to adhere to the Church of
Rome. There follow the names of the persons who are
stated to have been "perverted," most of whom were plague
patients, who, in the time of their sickness, were reconciled
by Morse. The converts named were about 20 persons,
one half of whom had died of the plague. March 8th,
1636–7. [2½
pp.] |
116. ii. Order of the Lords on the above petition. They think fit
that the parson of the parish and others who have certified
as above should take care to have the persons complained
of to be convicted as recusants, whereupon the Lords will
give further order. Whitehall. 15th March 1636–7.
[Written under the petition above-mentioned. ¼
p.] |
March 15. Ridlington, co. Rutland. |
117. Sir Edward Harrington to Nicholas. In his last letter certified that he had 400l. ship-money in hand. In this time of Lent,
finds it very difficult to get any returned, and to bring or send it up
is full of hazard and danger. He has now received the greater part
of the money, except some few towns wherein some particular
persons obstinately refuse to pay (as they pretend out of a matter of
conscience), and so not only hinder the towns wherein they live, but
encourage other towns to do the like. He has distrained some of
them, and is resolved to take the same course with the rest, and he
punishes the chief of them that have good personal estates by raising
their assessments to a greater proportion than they were before. He
is now busy in sending money to all the towns that have paid for
easing the poorer sort that have contributed to this assessment,
which gives the poor great content. Will send up a certificate, and
endeavour to return to Sir William Russell what money he can, and
about Easter send up all. [Seal with crest. 1 p.] |
March 15. |
118. Receipt of Sir William Russell for 1,449l., ship-money, paid
by Morgan Price on behalf of Sir Lewis Mansell, Sheriff of co.
Glamorgan, in part of 5,000l. charged upon South Wales. [¾
p.] |
March 15. Whitehall. |
119. Order of Council. Certificates having been presented concerning the great decay of the Turkish frigate, lying in the graving
dock of the King's yard at Portsmouth, and Sec. Coke signifying his
Majesty's pleasure that it should be sold, it is ordered accordingly.
[¾
p.] |
March 15. |
120. Notes, by Nicholas, of Admiralty businesses, respecting
which his Majesty was to be spoken with. Concerning giving the
owners of merchant ships 3l. 6s. 8d. a man per mensem, to set forth
ships for the King's service. Touching the proposition of the Master
of the Ordnance to license retailers of gunpowder. [Margin: Fiat.]
To show his Majesty the Lords' opinion on Mr. Ackworth's having the
reversion of the office of Clerk of the Navy. [Margin: This not to
proceed.] To acquaint his Majesty that the two new pinnaces appointed for Sallee will be ready to be launched on Monday next;
that he will appoint some one to name them. [Margin: The Earl
of Northumberland.] [¾
p.] |
March 15. Mincing Lane. |
121. Officers of the Navy to Lords of the Admiralty. Having
considered the difficulty of procuring able mariners for the King's
service, and that insufficient men are sent in, and many that are
pressed appear not, but by stealth ship themselves away upon
merchants' voyages, and render to the press-masters wrong names
and false places of abode, so to prevent the ensuing punishment,
the Officers request an order to the Deputy Lieutenants, Mayors, and
Justices of the Peace, to undertake to send in such numbers from
each place as the necessity of the service will require, and that if
pressed men return home without a lawful discharge they may be
sent up as delinquents for punishment. [1 p.] |
March 15. Whitehall. |
122. Notes, by Sec. Windebank, of proceedings of a Committee
of the Council for treating with the city of London, respecting the
surrender of their lands in Ireland upon a remission of the fine in
the Star Chamber, but the city to retain the fishing. The notes
conclude with a suggestion of Archbishop Laud, that the city should
offer 10,000l. and continue the fishing. [¼
p.] |
March 15. |
123–124. See "Returns made by Justices of the Peace." |