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Feb. 1.
Whitehall. |
1. Minutes by Nicholas of business despatched this day at the
Council of War. Resolved that warrant shall be given for six
months' pay, after the rate of 2s. per diem, for a storekeeper at
Carlisle. Ordered that George Fletcher make as much English
match as he can, and deliver the same into his Majesty's store, but
that he attend the Lord Treasurer for payment for the 24 tons of
match formerly delivered; also that he furnish 50 tons of foreign
match at reasonable rates, for which he is to receive 500l. upon
accompt. Resolved that all officers of foot for the army obtaining
the Lord General's certificate shall be entitled to half-pay from that
time, the same to be paid by the Treasurer-at-Wars. Lord Conway
and others named to define the office and duty of a provider or
commissary-general. Resolved that all pistols shall be made 18
inches long with a bore to carry 28 bullets to the pound. [¾ p.] |
Feb. 1.
Little Britain. |
2. The Commissioners for Gold and Silver Thread to the Council.
Robert Amery, the messenger, being sent to search the house of
William Greene in St. John's, Middlesex, found there, ready to be
disgrossed, two bars of silver and one of silver gilt, value 170l., with
irons for drawing the same into wire, contrary to the proclamation
for preventing the consumption of the coin and bullion of the realm,
which he seized, though violently resisted. When we met the next
day to take examinations touching the same, Joseph and William
Symonds, wiredrawers, of their own accord came and claimed the
silver to be theirs, though confessed to be bought elsewhere than at
his Majesty's office, and without paying the duty reserved. They
then affirmed that the silver had been delivered by them to Greene
to be disgrossed and drawn for them, and in a threatening manner
required us to deliver up the same. All which being done in manifest contempt of his Majesty's proclamation and commission, and
tending to the present overthrow of the regulation now settled by
his Majesty, we present to you for your further directions therein.
[1 p.] |
| [Feb. 1.] |
3. John Lanyon to the Council of War. Having been appointed
by you for viewing and proving a great number of arms beyond the
seas, my request is that you will allow two artificers to be sent with
me from hence to assist in that duty. [½ p.] |
Feb. 1.
Barbican. |
4. John Earl of Bridgewater to Sec. [Windebank]. I send you a
note of lands for your satisfaction touching the security for the
money which, out of your desire for the advancement of his Majesty's
service, you are pleased to take care to provide for me. If I were
able by my own credit to have procured the money I should have
spared your trouble therein. I assure you I have not been negligent
in this business, and I hope speedily to furnish myself with 5,000l.,
whereof I have already procured a great part. To be short, what I
can do I will not fail to do, to express my affection and desire to
serve his Majesty as my power and ability shall enable me. I send
herewith a letter I received yesterday from the Council in the
Marches, that you may consider thereof with the rest of the papers
which you have concerning Blount's [Blunt's] miscarriage. [1 p.]
Annexed, |
|
4. i. Sir Marmaduke Lloyd and two others to John Earl of
Bridgewater, Lord President of the Council in the Marches
of Wales. In your letter of the 16th January last you
signified to us that you had received some informations
from Edmond Woodward, muster-master in the county of
Worcester, of the strange and unbefitting carriage by two
sons of Walter Blunt, and also of some matters requisite
to be inquired after, which may trench upon his Majesty and
this kingdom. We have inquired about the intemperate
language used by Blunt's sons at Mr. Woodward's house,
the younger of whom came in voluntarily and confessed
to having threatened to burn Woodward's mill, but
utterly denied that he or his brother did ever mention the
King or spake one word of stabbing any one with a knife.
Ludlow Castle, 25th January 1639-40. [Seal with
crest and arms. 1 p.] |
Feb. 1.
Drury Lane. |
5. Warrant signed by Sec. Windebank to all justices of peace and
others, to suffer Capt. Thomas Edwards to levy and transport into
Flanders so many volunteers as will make up 2,000 men, intended
by his Majesty for recruiting the English companies in the service
of the King of Spain there. [Copy. ¾ p.] |
Feb. 1.
Hackney. |
6. Edward Misselden to [Sec. Windebank]. I am infinitely bound
to the King for his offer to hear me personally. Yesterday, being a
quiet day at court, I presented myself with purpose to have represented something to the King about that service in Holland, which,
for aught I see, our Deputy will rather let be neglected than
effected by me, who have been working for it above these 20 years.
Some other thoughts I had about the license now in question
between the Duke of Lenox and the Company [of Merchant Adventurers]; but his Majesty having notice of some petitions of the
company put into your hands, deferred me till after those were presented. To-morrow, I suppose, they will be read. If his Grace and
the company agree I shall be glad; if not, I shall be ready to attend
his Majesty, and humbly to present privately a fair way and means— |
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1. For settling the license in the company to the good contentment of the Duke. |
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2. To make it some way beneficial to the King. |
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3. To take some order for the great debt of the company which
lately indiscreetly was obtruded on the King. |
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4. To avoid the immoderate growing of that debt, which lies
heavy on the cloth of the kingdom; which undoubtedly will be
called in question in Parliament. |
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5. To increase our drapery and to decrease the Dutch, who are
advanced therein to 30,000 cloths a year, which is the full
quantity of our white cloth transported. |
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These, you will say, are sooner said than done, but I hope to give his
Majesty good satisfaction in them all, which cannot so well be done
in writing. This poor paper therefore, if you think it worthy to be
represented to his Majesty, being for his, the Duke's service, and
the Company's good, and without any respect to myself, I shall be
ready at your command. P.S.—I have received a letter of the 4th
February, N.S., from a French merchant of Rouen that the Prince
Elector's business is agreed upon, and that he shall be governor of
Brisach. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 1. |
7. The Treasurers of the Navy to [Sec. Windebank]. Giving an
estimate of what moneys are required for setting forth 20 of the
King's ships, and for victualing and transporting 5,000 landmen.
Totals for the former service, 49,842l. 10s.; and for the latter, 59,823l.;
of which 64,583l. to be supplied at once, and 45,082l. 10s. against
the termination of this service. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 1. |
8. Estimate of the charge for setting forth to sea 20 of the King's
ships and pinnaces manned with 2,800 men for eight months' service
on our own coast; viz., the James, 260 men; St. George, 260;
Swiftsure, 260; Charles, 250; Rainbow, 240; Convertive, 200;
Garland, 170; Leopard, 160; Entrance, 160; Antelope, 160; Mary
Rose, 100; Providence, 100; Expedition, 100; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and
8th Whelps, each 60; Greyhound, 50; Roebuck, 45; and Nicodemus, 45. Total, 72,668l. 6s. 8d.; whereof to be paid to the
Surveyor of marine victuals 22,825l. 16s. 8d., and to the Treasurers
of the navy 49,842l. 10s. [1½ p.] |
| Feb. 1. |
9. Certificate from the Officers of the Ordnance what gunpowder is
remaining in his Majesty's magazine 1st February, and what was
sold or disposed of in the last month. In the Tower, 253 lasts
16 cwt. 59 lbs., and at Portsmouth, 5 lasts 7 cwt. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 1.
Dermound. |
10. F. Grymesdytche to [Thomas Windebank]. Thanks him
for his letters, and begs him to present the enclosed to his uncle,
Mr. Secretary. [¾ p.] |
| Feb. 1. |
11. John Goold to Nicholas. Since the last week's certificate
there has been received only 12l. ship-money of Yeovil, Somerset.
[⅓ p] |
Feb. 1.
Whitehall. |
Henry Earl of Holland to Sir Edmond Sawyer, auditor of co.
Berks. Whereas King James granted to Sir Charles Howard
an annuity of 50l., to be paid by the receiver of co. Berks, for
provision of hay for the deer in Bigshot walk, and upon some
question arising relative to the payment of the annuity, his Majesty
determined that 40l. should yearly be paid to Sir Charles, and the
remaining 10l. to Sir Arthur Mainwaring for provision of hay for
the deer in such places of Windsor Forest as I, being justice in eyre
of the royal forests, should appoint; and whereas I am informed
that there are great store of deer in New Lodge walk in the custody
of Sir Charles Harbord, and that he has no allowance of hay for
the same; these are to require you to cause the 10l., parcel of the
said annuity, for all the time the same is in arrear, as also in future
as the same shall grow due, to be paid to Sir Charles Harbord and
William Murray equally for provision of hay for the deer in New
Lodge and Bigshot walks. [Copy. See vol. ccclxxxiv., p. 71. = 1½ p.] |
Feb. 1.
Whitehall. |
Henry Earl of Holland to Sir Arthur Mainwaring, Lieutenant
of Windsor Forest, Sir Edmond Sawyer, and Sir Robert Bennet.
Warrant to supply to Sir Charles Harbord, keeper of New Lodge
and walk in Windsor Forest, such timber trees out of Braywood or
elsewhere as shall be fit for the reparation of New Lodge and
the fences within that walk, not exceeding 10 loads of timber.
[Copy. Ibid., p. 72. 1⅓ p.] |
| Feb. 2. |
12. William Boteler, late sheriff of Beds, to Nicholas. The
present sheriff sent me a copy of a letter from the Council commanding me to collect the arrears of ship-money in my charge, but
has since neglected to grant me warrant until he hath attended the
Lords to be resolved in some scruples which he will propound.
Being upon these uncertainties I am enforced once more to trouble
you, and entreat that you would make my condition known to the
Lords, that I may not be esteemed culpable where I want power
to execute their commands; but if the Lords require my attendance
I shall be ready upon the least notice. [Seal with arms, broken.
¾ p.] |
| Feb. 2. |
13. Bond of Hugh Williams, of Condicote, co. Gloucester, in 100l.
to collect and pay in to the late sheriff of that county the ship-money
wherewith he stands charged. [Seal impressed with crest and
arms. 2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 3. |
Grant to Edward Snapes, his Majesty's marshal farrier, and
Anthony Elton of the benefit that accrued to his Majesty out of
the estate of Richard Thornton, convicted of felony. [Docquet..] |
| Feb. 3. |
The like to Sir Henry Vane of the office of one of his Majesty's
Principal Secretaries of State, with a fee of 100l. per annum
during life, to commence from Christmas last. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 3. |
Warrant to the Exchequer to pay to Sir Henry Vane 700l. per
annum for intelligences and secret service, as accustomed to the
Secretaries of State, to commence from the 1st February, and to
continue during pleasure. [Docquet.] |
Feb. 3.
Whitehall. |
Minutes by Nicholas of business despatched this day at the
Council of War. Resolved that every troop of cuirassiers shall
consist of 100 horsemen besides officers, and every troop of carabineers to consist of 60 and 52 horsemen. Two artificers to go
with Mr. Lanyon, the proofmaster, to survey the arms sent for from
Flanders. Estimate of the number of waggons resolved by the Lords
to be provided for the officers of the army; in all 478 waggons,
whereof 448 are to have three horses apiece, and the 30 appointed
for the Lord-General six horses. Total of the charge for waggons
per diem 118l. 9s. 8d., per mensem 3,317l. 10s. 8d. [See this present
volume, No. 1. 2½ pp.] |
Feb. 3.
Garlick Hill. |
14. Sir John Coke to Sec. Vane. I willingly give my testimony
in favour of the bearer, whom I know to be honest and able, and fit
to be trusted in any service you shall employ him in. [¾ p.] |
| Feb. 3. |
15. Extracts of letters from Hampshire and Devon, sent to Lord
Cottington and transmitted by him to Sec. Windebank. The
collection of ship-money in Hampshire goes on so speedily that we
conceive it will all be collected in very short time. We, in Devonshire, have news of a parliament, but no man believes it. The
ship-money we are sure of, for every man feels it already; and
although the rate of this county be high, being 9,000l., yet is there
no grudging, so as I think we are the King's best subjects. [½ p.] |
Feb. 3.
Breda. |
16. Sir John Conyers to [Sec. Windebank]. I received your
packet of the 12th January [see that date, No. 110] on the 26th of
the same, and according to your order in the postscript I directed
the bearer to Mr. Willmott at the Hague, from whom you will
receive answer. For what concerns myself you may understand
that I cannot refuse those royal and princely offers his Majesty
out of his wonderful bounty and goodness is pleased to make me,
his unworthy servant, but relying wholly upon his favour, will
come and cast myself at his Majesty's feet with a resolution to
endeavour to serve him in all things he shall find me capable;
provided that his Majesty will, as promised in your letter of the
12th January, write his letters to the States General and the
Prince of Orange to procure them to dispense with my service for
six or seven months, that my company here may not in the meantime be disposed of to any other, but may remain to me until I
have had the honour to kiss his Majesty's hands, and be settled in
my charge there. It will be requisite that his Majesty's letters
be written to purpose, for I fear great difficulty will be made
in it, though 30 years' faithful service, with great affection to this
state, as mine has been, in reason deserves something more than
ordinary favour; not that I desire it in regard of the profit which
may arise by it, for that is no way my end in removing from hence,
but only the desire I have to do his Majesty service, and therefore
I beseech you, if Sir William Boswell be here, the business may
be recommended to him. A letter also from his Majesty to the
Queen of Bohemia for her Majesty's recommendations in that
regard to the States and the Prince of Orange would be very
advantageous to me, for I know there be already [some] that speak
and pretend for the command of my company. In the meantime
I will take order in my affairs here, that I may be ready to pass
into England so soon as that shall be effected and his Majesty shall
have use for my service. I will according to your commands
persuade as many as I find fit for his Majesty's service to transport
themselves into England, though I have little hopes of any, the
few companies here of our nation being for the most part composed
of Dutchmen, excepting Mr. Willmott's lieutenant and mine, who
have wives and children, and so settled here that, but for very good
conditions, and those certain, they will be loath to remove. I fear
you may think the return of this post long, although he stayed but
one night for my letters. P.S.—I pray let these enclosed be
delivered. [Endorsed by Sec. Windebank as received by Duncan on
the 12th February and answered on the 18th. 2 pp.] |
Feb. 3.
Breda. |
17. Sir John Conyers to [Edward Viscount Conway and Killultagh].
In a packet from Sec. Windebank I received one from the Earl of
Northumberland and one from your Lordship of the 12th January,
whereby I understood the conditions his Majesty, by your favour,
offers to me, which I must confess are such that with my reputation
I cannot refuse, as shall appear to you by the copies of my letters
to them both, which herewith I send your Lordship. I would
willingly have spoken of some conditions for my wife, if God should
take me, but I dare not press the King to it now, but I hope I shall
obtain it when I come over; only this I earnestly desire, that his
Majesty will so effectually work with the States General and the
Prince of Orange that they may dispense with my absence for six or
seven months, and that in the meantime my company may not be
given from me, for I assure you that, unless I may do so, I mean to
hold my company here till I am settled in my charge there in
England, or at least resign it to my nephew Hume, I should be
loath to remove upon any conditions; this I am bold to tell you,
though I dare not say so much in my other letters. If I hold it for
a time I may find some means by the King's favour to resign it to
him, which would give some content to my wife, who is so afflicted
with my removing, that were it not that my reputation is so engaged
by the great propositions that are made me, I would not change, for
it is in no way in regard of the profit that may arise to me by it
which makes me undertake it, but only the service I may do his
Majesty, and the honour I may receive by doing him service, and your
Lordship in particular, to whom I am so much bound. Sir Robert
Stone, a servant of the Queen of Bohemia, says he has a promise of
the first English company of horse that falls void, and speaks already
for mine, which I should be very loath to leave to him, and therefore
I beseech you again work so effectually in this business that my
leave of absence may be obtained at least for six or seven months.
In Sec. Wndebank's letter of the 12th January I am already
promised that the King would write to the Prince of Orange to
dispense with my service for a time, though it cannot be expected
it could continue long if I accepted that charge in England, and
that I confess, nor do I expect it. I will bring you a trumpet if
possible, but for wearing a full cuirasse for your person I never
saw our Commissary-General nor our Lieutenant-General otherwise
armed here than with a back and breast, and that of proof, much
less a general, which I hear and hope you are to be. For horses
I cannot advise you to buy any here, for good horses fit for service
are not here to be got for any money, and young horses would
not be of any service this year; besides horses here in Holland
are extremely dear and the charge of transporting them excessive.
I pray you advertise me by your next when you guess I must be
in England, that accordingly I may hasten my business here.
Letters by way of the Hague come so slowly to me that I would
you send copies of your letters to Breda by the post of Antwerp.
Mr. Willmott said he would write to you. I beseech you that one
of the King's ships may be sent for us against the time you will
have us come over. I know it will require but a word from you
to the Earl of Northumberland, and it will be a great convenience
to us. I again recommend to you the procuring my pass from
the States and the Prince of Orange for this time. Sir Jacob
Ashley was once absent in Denmark a year and a half, and again
in Germany two years, and his company was kept for him during
that time; also many more besides him in former times and this
last year. I have served this state above 30 years and this is the
first time I ever desired such a favour, therefore I beseech you be
earnest in pressing my request. I should be extremely loath to
leave these countries without first obtaining my leave of absence,
for who can tell what may happen 'twixt the lip and the cup. A
letter from the King to the Queen of Bohemia to that purpose
would not only help me by her recommending it to the Prince of
Orange and the States, but be a means to hinder her Majesty from
recommending others to my company. I send you herewith copies
of my letters to the Earl of Northumberland and Sec. Windebank;
in the former I have been bold to trouble his Lordship about the
arrearages of my pension. There is no great appearance of
Mr. O'Neill, a devoted servant to the Earl of Northumberland and
yourself, being employed here, whom I find not so ignorant of
service amongst the horse as many who have served long amongst
them; if I have a regiment I should be glad of him to be my
major, and am confident he would give you and the Earl contentment
in that place; my desire therefore is that you should further his
interest with the Earl. P.S.—My wife presents her service to you,
and we both join in the offer of our best service to your most good
and noble lady. [4 pp.] |
Feb. 3.
The Tower. |
18. Sir William Balfour to Sir John Heydon. Recommends the
bearer, Jonathan Powell, as a fit man to be employed for doing work
for his Majesty, he having for many years done part of his Majesty's
work for Mr. Berry, now deceased. [Seal with crest and arms,
broken. ¾ p.] |
| Feb. 3. |
19. Note of causes appointed to be heard in the Queen's Court
at Westminster this day, relative to lands in cos. Bedford and York.
[⅓ p] |
| Feb. 3. |
20. Particulars furnished by Sir Michael Ernle of what buildings
were formerly belonging to the garrison of Berwick, distinguished
as within the palace and without the palace. If these buildings
are not sufficient to contain his Majesty's store, some part of the
castle may be made useful with reasonable charge, the only inconvenience being its remoteness from the water. [1¼ p.] |
| Feb. 3. |
21. Estimate of the number of waggons resolved by the Council
of War as necessary to be provided for the officers of the army;
in all 481 waggons, whereof 451 are to have three horses apiece, and
the 30 appointed for the Lord-General six horses. Total of the
charge for waggons per diem 119l. 4s. 8d., per mensem 3,338l. 10s. 8d.
[2¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 4. |
Grant of the office of Comptroller of the Mint in the Tower of
London to Henry Cogan and William Wheeler, for life or to the
longer liver, with a fee of 100 marks per annum and other profits.
[Docquet.] |
| Feb. 4. |
The like of the benefit of an outlawry against Sir George Horsey,
Sir George Morton, James Walker, and Ralph Horsey, to John
Credland, John Hooper, and George Bowdon, towards the payment
of 500l. due to Credland and the others by Sir George Horsey and
the before named outlawed persons, his trustees. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 4. |
Petition of Gilbert Welles to the King. That petitioner is seized
of divers manors, lands, and hereditaments in cos. Southampton,
Wilts, and Dorset for term of life without impeachment of waste,
remainder to his son Charles in tail, remainder to his other sons,
with other remainders over, which will be worth to his said son
1,200l. per annum. That petitioner being much indebted, and
having, besides his eldest son, divers younger children, viz., two sons
and three daughters, for whom no provision is made, is utterly
disabled either to discharge the one or to raise proportions for the
other, unless he be enabled by your Majesty's favour by sale of a
small proportion of land to relieve himself, without which liberty
he must be enforced to pull down his house and to sell all his
timber and wood, to the great prejudice of his heirs and defacing
his whole inheritance. These particulars being with all humility
submitted to your princely consideration, petitioner's suit is that
you would give your royal direction to the Lord Chief Justice and
others of the Court of Common Pleas to suffer a common recovery
to be had against your petitioner and his son Charles, being within
age, of the manor or lordship and capital messuage and farm of
Little Sombourn, Hants, the same not amounting to one-eighth
part of what will fall to the said Charles, to enable petitioner to
sell that property, and thereby in some sort to prefer his younger
children and pay his debts. Underwritten, |
|
i. Reference to the Lord Chief Justice and any two of the other
judges of the Court of Common Pleas to consider of the
above petition and certify their opinions, whereupon his
Majesty will signify his further pleasure. Whitehall,
4th Feb. 1639[-40]. [Copy. See Book of Petitions, Vol.
cccciii., p. 147. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 4. |
22. Samuel Cordewell, the King's gunpowder-maker, to the
Council. It is humbly offered for your consideration—1. That the
home-made saltpetre falls short about 80 lasts to make 240 lasts
yearly, and therefore if you think fit, now that the East India
Company are suitors for some privileges, they may be covenanted
with to bring over a certain quantity of saltpetre yearly, at the rate
they have formerly sold it for to the King. [Margin: It is held
fit that when the charter shall be passed there be a clause to
enjoin the East India Company accordingly.] 2. That Bristol
cannot but vend much powder, in respect that it is the greatest
town for shipping except London. So that if Bristol and other
seaport towns had powder sent them to sell, your Lordships might
have the money and accompt returned by those who return the
farmers [of the customs] money, and from these places the towns
and country thereabouts might be supplied. [Margin: That this
be ordered as was directed for the county of Southampton, and that
all powder-makers be suppressed.] 3. For the quiet settling of a
work of such advantage as this is like to be to his Majesty, and
for avoiding of dispute when the leases now in being shall expire,
his Majesty may be pleased to purchase such lands and waters as
are in the occupation of the mills, and whereof the work will
always have need. [Margin : The Surveyor-General is to view these
some time this vacation, and to certify what he conceives they
may be worth, and thereupon Mr. Cordewell is to attend the
Attorney-General about buying in the same. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 4. |
23. The same to the same. That by an Order of Council of
22nd May 1639, petitioner was commanded to make fine corn
powder for pistols, which he has ever since done, but prays
allowance towards his charges. [In margin by Nicholas: This
costs him 40l. per annum.] That they would make him some
allowance for his loss sustained by fire, whereby he lost his stove
and above 2,000 cwt. of powder. [Margin: This loss was 300l.
to the powder-maker.] That he received 2,000l. by way of imprest,
as Mr. Evelyn likewise did for erecting the works which he has
effectually done. Prays the Lords to be a means to his Majesty to
pardon petitioner the repayment thereof, who in lieu of the same
will disclaim all his interest in the mill-houses, work-houses, and
all other buildings by him now used for the making of gunpowder,
and will leave the same in serviceable repair at the expiration of
his contract. [Margin: The Surveyor-General is to view these
works, and to certify what he conceives they have cost, whereupon
the Lords referees will take further order.] [1 p.] |
Feb. 4.
[Carlisle Castle.] |
24. Sir Francis Willoughby to the Council of War. In obedience
to your commands of the 27th January, I have diligently viewed
the convenience this place will yield for his Majesty's service, and
what the castle and citadel afford, all which is set down separately
in the annexed schedule. The ovens, furnaces, and houses in the
castle are much decayed, as also the granaries and other places,
which of necessity must be repaired before they can be used; fuel
also is not very plentiful, by reason the last summer was very wet.
I find divers convenient places belonging to the Abbey, under the
dean and chapter, which being repaired will serve for cellarage and
storehouses. [1 p.] Annexed,
|
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24. i. Schedule referred to above, certifying the capabilities of the
granaries, ovens, and brewhouses in the castle and citadel
at Carlisle, with the two malt-kilns in the town. [2½ pp.] |
|
24. ii. A similar schedule certifying the number and capacity
of the brewhouses and ovens in the city of Carlisle, which
may be rendered available for his Majesty's service if
needful. [4¼ pp.] |
Feb. 4.
Drury Lane. |
25. [Sec. Windebank] to Sir Michael Ernle. I thought that by
mine of the 25th January I had sufficiently instructed you concerning the 100 men which by small numbers the King commanded
should be conveyed with all secrecy into Edinburgh Castle by
intelligence between you and the governor, but I find by yours of
the 24th ult. that you conceive the greatest difficulty will be in
getting the men, and that you can find ways enough to send them
thither. I confess I do not understand how that can be, seeing
you have men enough in garrison at Berwick, from whom you
may select the most able and faithful for this service, and how many
soever you shall employ, the like number shall be supplied to the
garrison again from some other part. This his Majesty has commanded me to write to you, and withal that you shall give such
men as you shall use in that service extraordinary reward, to such
proportion as you shall think fit, which will be repaid you by the
paymaster there. What you advertise in your letter concerning
the fortifying of Hexham and Norham, upon further direction from
you how it may most conveniently be done, shall be ordered
accordingly. The slight breastwork, only musket proof, which you
propose, the King approves, and you are to proceed in it, as is
mentioned in your letter. P.S.—Let Capt. Lloyd know that I have
received his of the 29th ult., and that his Majesty's pleasure is that
he go on with the works according to his former letters and my
answers to them. He may employ Heath or any one he likes best
in place of Goodman, his principal workman, fallen sick. If he
desire any workmen from here, upon notice how many and of what
trades he shall be supplied, or else he may have a warrant to press
some there. [Draft. 1 p.] |
Feb. 4.
Berwick. |
26. Sir Michael Ernle to Sec. Windebank. I received yours of
the 28th January [see Vol. ccccxliii., No. 3], and have given you by
this a particular account of what you commanded. I had thought
of a way for supplying Edinburgh Castle with men, which I believed
would have taken effect, but I have now received your order to the
contrary. I hear nothing as yet of the ship you mention, but last
Saturday a ship of great burden passed northward; what she was I
know not. The [Scotch] Commissioners came to Berwick on Saturday last, and the next day proceeded on into Scotland. That night
there arrived a packet from England for Scotland, which I believe
contained letters for the commissioners, as they made no haste the
next day. The Lord Ester [Stair?] and the Laird of Kelloe
brought them on their way, and went, as I hear afterwards, to the
Holy Island, to what purpose I know not. The tax they have
made in Scotland for the tenth of every man's revenue I understand
comes not in so fast as they brag of. I hear that the Earl of
Haddington is lately become a covenanter, and that the Lord Ker,
son of the Earl of Roxburgh, has 1,500 arms at his house near
Dunbar. They look bigger upon the business now than ever, but
I believe those men who go for the Castle of Edinburgh will not
be refused; if they be I shall follow the directions you have given
me. I desire you to consider that many accidental charges in the
long absence of a governor fall upon me, which otherwise would be
his; I had but six shillings the day until the Lord Treasurer's
last order, and since I have received 10 shillings the day. [Seal
with arms. 1 p.] |
Feb. 4.
Berwick. |
27. Capt. Charles Lloyd to Sir Francis Windebank. Your
command to Sir Michael Ernle I have endeavoured to assist. Concerning the granaries, they will be extremely necessary, and
likewise the two other houses, seeing one forge cannot furnish my
carpenters besides the other house is requisite for other offices. The
account of the works I have sent you lately, and therefore cannot
tender you as yet any further satisfaction. I thank the Lords for
the warrant, which I have sent to the deputy mayor of Newcastle
to furnish me, which is the most fitting place I can think of, seeing
I cannot well be spared at this time from hence. [Seal with device.
2/3 p.] |
Feb. 4.
Motcombe. |
28. Sir John Croke, late sheriff of Dorset, to Nicholas. In
obedience to the Lords' directions for levying arrears of ship-money
in Dorset upon the writ of 1637, I have sent throughout the whole
county the present sheriff's warrants and schedules, but have not as
yet received any money. I pray you excuse my personal appearance at this time before the Lords, as my weakness is such that I
cannot travel to London without peril of my life. I will do my
best endeavours to collect so much of these arrears as may be had.
[Seal with device. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 4. |
29. Thomas Triplet to "the most kind father in God the Archbishop of Canterbury." Narrates the story of the enclosed paper.
Reluctance of the mayor of Sunderland to take notice of the seditious words reported to have been spoken by George Stevenson,
servant to George Lilburne, of Sunderland, being then at Alnwick.
It is difficult for me to believe that Sir William Bellasis, being a
scholarly gentleman and a friend to me rather than otherwise, should
endeavour to vindicate a man charged with high treason. They
say Sir William has much dealing and commerce both by sea and
land, shipping and colliery with two of the most arrant covenanters
and dangerous boutefeus that are in these parts, viz., George Lilburne,
of Sunderland, now in the High Commission for that which he
deserves a Star Chamber censure, and G. Grey, of Sudwick, who has
lately endeavoured to lay the axe to the root of Durham church.
However, in the meantime I have written to my old friend Sir
Michael Ernle, governor of Berwick, to examine this Morrell upon
oath. He denied the words, but I must call him villain, for I took
special notice of them. It would strike a good reasonable terror if
they were all sent for up from the mayor, that he may give an
account how he behaved himself in it; then Lilburne and his man,
that they may be examined, both from whence the post came to
them, and by whose direction, and how they tampered with Morrell
to make him recall his words. [1½ p.] Annexed, |
|
29. i. Deposition of John Morrell, a soldier. That on New Year's
day last, he being at Sunderland, George Stevenson,
servant to Mr. George Lilburne, asked him why he would
bestow himself upon the calling of a soldier, for that
soldiers spend their time in drinking and swearing,
which was a wicked course, and advised him having a
good trade to follow it rather. 8th January 1639-40.
[1 p.] |
| Feb. 4. |
30. Certificate of John Hooker [a justice of peace] that Christopher
Pickering, of Gray's Inn, had that day taken the oath of allegiance.
[¼ p.] |
| Feb. 4. |
31. Bond of John Scattergood in 50l., conditioned that he attend
before the Attorney-General to be examined as to who were actors
or abettors in the riot committed near Uttoxeter, and not depart
till licensed by Lord Newburgh, Chancellor of the Duchy. [Signed
and sealed. 2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 5. |
32. Petition of John Gibbon and Lucas Corselis in behalf of the
participants in the Level of Hatfield Chase to the King. Petitioners
being fee-farmers to your Majesty of the improved lands within
the Level of Hatfield, which they have perfected at a charge of near
200,000l., and were by contract to pay to your Majesty a rent of
1,100l. Upon survey there was found to be so much more land
dividable to the participants that an increased rent of 128l. was
laid on them in respect of some lands in Misterton, Gringly, and
other places more than was at first intended. By your Majesty's
covenant it was agreed that when all the lands were drained, if
petitioners had less portions assigned to them than mentioned
in the contract, then an abatement to be made out of the 1,100l.
per annum. The works being all finished, divers of the lands are
still unjustly detained by some pretending interest, whereby petitioners have lost hitherto, and do still lose, according to the rate
that the other lands are let, at least 2,000l. per annum; notwithstanding which, the rents reserved upon that part so detained are
still required from the proportion enjoyed by petitioners, and those
employed for collecting the fee-farm rent, which your Majesty has
granted away, refuse to levy any part of that rent by way of
distress upon those lands which are liable to pay the same, and
which are withheld from petitioners, but exact it from them by
distress upon the portion in their possession. That they may have
the benefit of your Majesty's contract and relief for the possession of
those lands, pray reference to certain Lords of the Council, who may
set down order therein or certify your Majesty. [¾ p.] |
| Feb. [5/15]. |
33. Charles Louis, the Elector Palatine, to Robert Earl of Leicester, English ambassador in France. At my interview with M. de
Chavigny the sum of his discourse was, that since your lordship
would hearken to no proposition concerning the King my uncle's
co-operation with his master, the French King, for my interest until
I were set at liberty (for which I owe you many thanks), he would
be content to grant it, both to gratify me and to show his desire to
advance the treaty, but upon condition I should sign that, whereof
I send you a copy, of which I shall make no difficulty, since the
first part of it would clear me of that which I was suspected for,
and the latter advance the aforesaid treaty, and the good which I
might expect by being in the French King's sight, and having the
cardinal's conversation, &c. I thought an absolute refusal would but
augment their jealousy of me, therefore I strove to delay it, saying
that though I would make no difficulty to satisfy the King, his
master, in signing that which he demands if it were in other terms,
yet I desired him withal to consider whether I ought not [to show]
that respect to the English ambassador as to take his advice in it
beforehand, and since the French King professed so much desire
to maintain a good correspondence with his Majesty, I thought he
should not urge me to do such a thing without the knowledge of
his ambassador. The most part of his visit was spent in arguing
this point. At last he told me if I deferred the signing of this
paper too long I should spoil my own affairs, remain as I am, and
confirm the French King in his suspicion of my ill intentions against
his service. As for the form I might alter it as I pleased, and send
it to him, when he would acquaint the King with it. I kept the
project and desired some time to think on it, after which I would
let him know my intention; whereupon I desire your lordship's
advice how to govern myself, for on the one side, notwithstanding
the trouble I am in, I am loth to promise or sign anything without
your approbation; on the other I apprehend that my backwardness
will be taken as a confession of that which I am suspected of;
therefore I desire to know whether you think I may sign the first
part without prejudice in the manner as I have altered it, if I
should be pressed to do so; as for the latter part, which is an obligation, I will eschew it, except you think it may stand with the
King my gracious uncle's liking as I have changed it. I beseech
you to return your answer by this bearer, and to believe that I am
infinitely sensible of those testimonies you have given me in this
occasion of your real friendship to me and your care of my interest.
I shall never think myself wholly at liberty until I may receive the
happiness to acquit myself of the obligation you have put me under.
[Copy. 1½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Auckland Castle. |
34. Bishop Moreton, of Durham, to Sec. Windebank. In obedience
to the King's command concerning the lecturer chosen for Newcastle,
I have received the answer from the deputy mayor and aldermen to
my several queries. 1. They are not aware of any distaste they
gave to Mr. Stevenson that he should give over his lecture. 2. They
only chose Mr. Bewick eight days after Mr. Stevenson's resignation.
3. They were informed that Mr. Bewick was conformable to the
orders of the Church of England. 4. They resolved not to allow of
him if the bishop should not approve of him as able and conformable.
5. Although they did not offer the place to Mr. Alvey they
acquainted him with their election of Mr. Bewick, to know whether
he would take any exceptions against him. 6. They could not
remember any instance of the vicar enjoying the vicarage and lectureship together. Howbeit I understand from Mr. Stevenson that one
distaste he took was that neither he nor some others that were
curates could receive their stipends but after much delay. By Mr.
Alvey I also perceive that he has not desired of the mayor and
aldermen to have the benefit of the lecturer, but notwithstanding he
is willing to read the lecture. This is all I think which concerns
me to certify at this time and upon this occasion. [Seal with arms,
broken. 1 p.] |
Feb. 5.
Newcastle. |
35. Sir John Marlay to [the same]. I received yours of the 28th
January on the last ult., when Sir William Bellasis, whose assistance I wanted, was already departed for London. The next
morning I sent a trusty servant into Northumberland to inquire for
Sir John Buchanan, and if he could learn for certain where he was
staying, then to apprehend him, but, if not, to make no noise, but to
return, which he did on the 4th inst. He heard that Sir John
never stayed long in one place, as he had many haunts in Northumberland, most of his consorts being strong for the Puritan faction.
When at Shields Sir John was observed to view the haven and
harbour and the old fortifications, but more I think will appear
when examination is taken of those who consorted with him. I am
persuaded if some of the chief of that faction in Northumberland
and Newcastle, who are the patrons of the inferior sort, were strictly
examined and dealt with, it will be the ready means to root out
that mystery of iniquity from these northern parts. If his Majesty
please to command me any further service I shall faithfully perform
it, but I am sure if anything is to be done in Northumberland there
will be need of a strict command to the justices there for assistance.
If Sir John Buchanan be taken I shall proceed according to former
directions, but, if not, I forbear until further order. [1 p] |
Feb. 5.
Westminster. |
36. Nicholas to Sir John Pennington. I thank you for your
friendly correspondence. Yours to the Lord Marquis [Hamilton] I
have delivered. Sunday last Sir Henry Vane, Treasurer of the
Household, was sworn one of the Principal Secretaries of State, in
which office he is already very busy. The Scotch Commissioners
are expected daily, but are not yet arrived, and we hope they will
bring a submission with them. The Lord-General's commission is
not yet under seal, but is in good forwardness, and we are preparing
in a far better manner than the last year. The writs for the parliament are not yet issued, but will be out about the end of the term,
and the parliament will begin, as I am credibly assured, in April next.
Sec. Coke delivered to the King his seals on Friday last, and the next
day went to his house in this town, and is now preparing to go to
his house in Derbyshire. I hear nothing of the Prince Elector but
that he continues still a prisoner in France, without hope of any
sudden alteration. The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland is still here, but
goes for Ireland about three weeks hence, as it is said. I hear no other
news worth your notice but that the French Gazette, which came out
last week says that you are to go to sea speedily with a very great
fleet. I wish you a happy success in your employment, and shall be
ever ready to prove myself your friend. P.S.—The Bishop of
Lincoln's cause in the Star Chamber, upon his petition to the King,
was yesterday put off till the next term. The city of London have
made choice this year rather to collect the ship-money and pay it to
the King than to undertake the setting forth of the two ships this
year. [Seal with crest and arms, broken. 1 p.] |
Feb. 5.
Highley. |
37. John Newton, late sheriff of co. Montgomery, to Nicholas. I
have received the Lords' letter touching the arrear of ship-money
upon writs of 1637, being 64l. I pray you remind the Lords that
this omission arose because the plague in that year was in three of
the chief towns of the county, so that at first the arrears amounted
to 164l., yet with great difficulty and no less danger I collected 100l.
and have paid it to Sir William Russell. I desire the Lords to
accept of 20l. for the present, and promise that the remainder shall
with all speed be made ready and paid in to Sir William, Treasurer for
the Navy. The Lords' letter was dated the last November which I
received the last of January. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
Feb. 5.
Clement's Inn. |
38. John Rattenbury to the same. In reply to the Lords' letter
touching the 12l. ship-money payable from the town of Oakhampton,
co. Devon, in the year 1638, I have to state that the same was paid to
the sheriff's agent in August last, and on the 14th December paid
in to the Treasurer of the Navy. [½ p] |
| Feb. 6. |
Warrant to the Exchequer and to the Dean and Chapter of
Rochester to pay to Sarah Moubray, late wife of Hugh May, deceased,
124l. 6s. 8d., being for a year's payment of an annuity remaining in
the hands of the said Dean and Chapter. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 6. |
Grant to Charles Evans of a gunner's room in the Tower of
London with the fee of 6d. per diem during pleasure, vice John
Reynolds, deceased. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 6. |
Warrant to the Exchequer and to the Receiver of first-fruits and
tenths to pay to Lord Newburgh, out of the moneys to be by them
received for the years 1640 and 1641, 3,000l. lent by him to his
Majesty, with interest at the rate of 8l. per cent. per annum. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 6. |
Warrant to the Exchequer to discharge Marquis Hamilton,
Master of the Horse, of 400l. by him received upon Privy Seal
dated 25th September last for provision of horses for the service of
the King, the Queen, the Prince, and Princess, besides 140l. over and
above the said sum; also 400l. more by way of imprest for provision
of such horses as his Majesty now has or hereafter shall have cause
to use. [Docquet.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
39. Order of Council of War. For Lord Conway, Colonel Goring,
Sir William Uvedall, Sir J. Ashley, and Sir Nicholas Byron to
consider how the money for raising a troop of horse at the rate of
15l. for a horse, for the garrisons of Berwick and Carlisle, being
impressed by the King, may be reimbursed again by defalcation, in
what manner and in what time. Also how the charge of tents for
the foot soldiers, allowing one tent, value 30s., to four soldiers, may
be paid for out of the soldiers' pay, and in what time. This committee is desired to set down in writing their opinions, and to
present the same to the Lord-General by Saturday next. [Draft by
Nicholas. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
40. The like. Reference to the same committee with the addition of the Attorney-General to consider of the conditions expressed
in the indenture of last year signed by captains of cavalry, and to
advise of fitting provisoes and caution to be therein inserted for
better securing his Majesty for the charge of the horse and arms to
be delivered to each trooper, and to send to the Lords a draft of an
indenture to that purpose. [Copy. ¾ p.] |
| Feb. 6. |
41. Draft of the same by Nicholas. [½ p.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
42. Order of Council of War. Reference to John Crane, surveyor of marine victuals, Nicholas Pay, clerk of the kitchen, the
Surveyor of the Navy, and Captain James Duppa, to consider and
advise of a proposition made for supplying beer at Berwick for the
use of the army, and of the prices and demands therein expressed,
and to certify their opinions of each particular to the Lord-General.
[Draft. ½ p.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
43. Minutes by Nicholas of business transacted this day at the
Council of War. Resolved that there be allowed to every brigade
50 pioneers, and so for the whole army and train of artillery 150
pioneers. The Auditor is to add to the list of every troop nine
spare horses, whose pay is allowed to the officers of a troop as so many
dead pays, and to estimate the charge for a regiment accordingly.
The Earl of Strafford signified his Majesty's pleasure that Colonel
George Goring be added to the Council of War, and thereupon he
was called in and sat with this Council. Sir Nicholas Byron to be
despatched into the Low Countries, to bring thence 100 expert
sergeants and corporals in place of 200 volunteers to be despatched
thence at the King's charge to supply their places. [¾ p.] |
Feb. 6.
Treveneage. |
44. Francis Godolphin, late sheriff of Cornwall, to the Council.
By yours to me of the 1st November 1639 it appears that, of the
1,700l. ship-money assessed upon Cornwall in my late sheriffalty,
there rested then unpaid 383l. In answer whereof I offer to your
consideration that 268l. was assigned to the towns corporate, leaving
1,432l. to be collected by me from the rest of the shire, all which
I have now paid in to Sir William Russell, though I have been
forced to disburse a great part thereof, not yet received. A part of the
sum to be levied on the towns is already paid in to Sir William
Russell, leaving only 63l. to be collected, which is distributed as
here specified, but which I had no power to levy. I have solicited
and importuned the payment thereof; their answer has been all
alike, "They are poor and cannot pay it." And so having neglected
it I leave them to your consideration, praying you to accept this
my service. [Seal with crest and arms. 1 p.] |
Feb. 6.
At my gouty lodging. |
45. Sir Thomas Jermyn, Comptroller of the Household, to Sec.
Windebank. I am pressed by my friends to entreat your favour
towards a gentleman, Captain William Butler, who pretends to have
been very injuriously oppressed by his colonel in the Infanta's
army, and by him cast into prison at Brussels. My desire is that
you would write a line to Gerbier desiring him to take knowledge of
the matter, and, if he finds the cause just, to mediate with his colonel.
[1 p.] |
Feb. 6.
Hull. |
46. Certificate that aboard the Providence, of Hull, master
Richard Wood, there were laden two casks of saltpetre consigned to
Robert Cardewell, in London, which ship in her passage for London
was sunk in Yarmouth haven the 1st January. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 6. |
47. Bill of causes left unheard the first sitting in the Exchequer
Chamber in Hilary term. The causes are arranged under counties.
[Damaged by damp. 3 pp.] |
Feb. 6.
Gatehouse Prison, Westminster. |
48. Simon Petteward to his brother, Edward Sparline, at Yarmouth.
Thanks for your kind and courteous proffer, but winter being not
yet past I dare not commit my treasure to the sea. We hope the
Lord has a speedy work to work for his people, and that the very
old men shall see his deliverance. Commends the reading of the
Scriptures to him and his sister. [1 p.] Encloses, |
|
48. i. John Armystead to Mr. Kydson, a carpenter at Yarmouth,
dated 5th Feb. 1639-40. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The King to Thomas Earl of Strafford, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
To cause letters patent to be passed to Sir Thomas Lucas of the
office of Commissary-General of his Majesty's horse troops in Ireland
with the fee of 20s. per diem during good behaviour, to commence
from 8th January last; and in case he shall be employed in his
Majesty's wars, an increase of 10s. per diem more is to be added.
[Docquet.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The same to the same. For Thomas Armstrong to be quartermaster-general for the horse troops in Ireland with the fee of 10s.
per diem. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 7. |
Presentation of Nicholas More, clerk, to the rectory of Bradwellby-Sea, in the diocese of London, void, and in his Majesty's gift
pleno jure. [Docquet.] |
Feb. 7.
Seaton in Cumberland. |
49. William Pennington, sheriff of Cumberland, to the Council.
The writ and instructions for assessing 700l. ship-money on this
county only came to my hands on the 3rd January with another
letter concerning arrears. I have directed my several warrants to
Sir Thomas Dacre and Sir Timothy Fetherstonhaugh requiring them
to levy the sums in arrear for their terms of office in the years 1637
and 1638, and pay the money in by the end of Candlemas term or
else appear before the Lords. Owing to the late delivery of the
writ the 700l. cannot be ready for payment by the 20th February
according to your directions. [2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
50. Sir Timothy Fetherstonhaugh to the Council. On the 6th
inst. I received a copy of your letter of 30th November concerning
ship-money for 1638, whereby I am required to give an account of
the same for my shrievalty by the last of this term. I humbly
present that in December 1638 I received writs and directions from
you, but whilst I was taking care to see the same effected I received
a letter from the clerk of the Council requiring me to return them,
which I accordingly did. Since which time I neither received writ
nor direction to levy any money during my time of shrievalty.
[Seal with arms broken. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 7.
Whitehall. |
51. Sec. Vane to [Sir Thomas Roe]. Sec. Coke having desired to
retire, and put the seals into his Majesty's hands, the next day he
bestowed them upon me, with the ciphers. His Majesty has since
made a division of his foreign affairs betwixt Sec. Windebank and
myself; Spain, Flanders, and Italy being intrusted principally to the
care of the former, and France, Holland, Germany, with the kings
and princes of the Baltic Sea to mine, yet so as not to exclude each
other from corresponding with all his Majesty's ministers; and to us
both they are to send severally their ordinary despatches; but his
Majesty's commands to his ministers are to be despatched in his
circle by him, so in mine by me. You will by this post receive his
Majesty's answer to your last in cipher from Sec. Windebank as it
was given to him to write before I was sworn. In future you are
to expect that office from me, who will invite you to a punctual
correspondence by my diligence and the desire I have to serve you
in a public way or in your private occasions when you shall make
use of my service. [2 pp] |
Feb. 7.
Drury Lane. |
52. Sec. Windebank to Sir Thomas Roe. Since my last of the
24th January there has been some alteration at Court. Sec. Coke
has been succeeded by Sir Henry Vane, who holds his white staff
and still continues Treasurer of the Household. Division of foreign
affairs between the writer and Sec. Vane. This distribution of
business is not, however, exclusive to either of us, unless his Majesty
by special command shall commit some secret to either of us to be
communicated to his minister abroad. Although in this allotment
you may seem not to be peculiarly within my province, from which
notwithstanding you are not excluded, yet you may be sure I will
always be in yours, and will be always ready to serve you. In my
last I promised you a letter of thanks from his Majesty to the King
of Denmark, which is not forgotten, though it be not yet in readiness.
In the meantime his Majesty has already passed a good office in
favour of that king with the States' ambassadors here, having earnestly recommended the business to them with his own mouth, and
they have promised to give what advancement they are able to it.
The States' ambassadors here have pressed the King for some answer
to their memorials concerning the business of the Downs, but such
an answer as is fit to be made will require great and deep deliberation, and though it be a little delayed, yet in the end I hope it will
be to their satisfaction. I sent with my last a letter from his
Majesty to General King, which, I hope, you have caused to be
delivered, and that you have used persuasions to him to return
hither and enter his Majesty's service rather than continue in that of
any foreign prince. It is his Majesty's pleasure that you shall pass
the like offices to other able commanders of that nation now in those
parts. The King has delivered your letter of the 14/24 January into
my hands, together with the proposition and discourse of Arnheim, to
which he has commanded me to return you this answer, that the
present constitution of his affairs at home is such as he cannot
hearken to it, and therefore requires you to make a fair and civil
answer, such as you shall think best for his honour and service, and to
excuse it handsomely. A copy of the safe-conduct mentioned in
your letter granted by the King of Hungary at the interposition of
the Venetian ambassador for the Prince Elector's coming to Cologne
was formerly sent from Spain, so that the King had seen that near a
month since. I shall not fail to be his Majesty's remembrancer for
your revocation in the spring, nor to serve you really at your return,
which I wish prosperous. [Draft. 22/3 pp.] |
Feb. 7.
Whitehall. |
53. George Rodolph Weckherlin to Sir Thomas Roe. On Friday last,
when Sec. Coke resigned his place, your letters of the 14th January
were delivered with the long proposition in cipher to his Majesty,
who then commanded me to decipher the same and return it into
his hands, which when I had done I made bold to say somewhat of
the great consequence of that worthy business, and when you were
to have an answer back, but I see that there has been as yet no
meeting about it. I do not neglect to solicit for you an answer, so
that you may not be left long in expectance. On Sunday last Sir
Henry Vane was sworn Principal Secretary of State in place of Sir
John Coke, who intends to retire into the country. I have received
commandment to continue in my employment under Sec. Vane,
which, though it be a great grace, yet affords no benefit nor comfort
at all to me for my great toil and labours in all foreign affairs. The
cipher to be used between you and the Secretary of State is now in
Sir Henry Vane's hands, because all the affairs of Germany, the
Baltic, France, Holland, and Turkey are to be wholly left to his
despatches ; while those of Spain, Italy, Flanders, and also (which is
a matter most profitable) of Ireland are for Windebank's particular
care. Home businesses are common to both, so that the one who
shall prove most active, able, or fortunate shall thrive accordingly.
I presume you know already that Sir John Finch is Lord Keeper,
and Sir Edward Littleton his successor in the Common Pleas. Finch,
by this advancement, vacates his place of Chancellor to her Majesty's
Council, and Sir John Lambe is brought in to fill it, whereby arises
a dispute concerning precedence, which formerly was willingly
conceded to the Earl of Holland, as her Majesty's High Steward,
but is now challenged by this Chancellor. As for the difference
betwixt the King of Denmark and the States I cannot see, as matters
now go here, how the accommodation might be advanced, unless you
renew the point with this new secretary. The States' ambassadors
here are also much perplexed to be so long detained without any
answer. I must put the Earl of Holland in mind of that difference
again, whose heart and wishes I conceive to run the same way with
yours, which perhaps many others do not. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 7.
West Münster. |
54. Sir Richard Cave to Sir Thomas Roe. I have not received any
letter from you since that about Curtius, although I hear from
Mr. Adamson that you have written since. At the French ambassador's departure I had much conference with him. At first he would
have fenced with me, but I fell to downright play and told him
of all particular abuses and indignities offered both to the King
and my master [the Elector Palatine], the ill consequence that
might thereby turn upon themselves, how much they had lost the
hearts of the gentry of England who wished them well, how many
Spaniards and Austrians would endeavour to blow the coal in this
court, how much all stranger princes throughout all Christendom
were scandalised at their rigorous proceedings, and much more,
whereof, if my man had not played the jack with me, I had sent
you copies the same week, together with the ambassador's replies
and our friendly parting, for he would needs put a compliment
on me to carry a letter to my master, which afterwards I brought
him, but as yet I hear no news thereof, for yesterday's letters
say that he was but newly arrived at Paris. There is not anything
which I do now so much solicit here, as to beseech the King and
Lords of the Junto to take into their consideration what course my
master [the Elector Palatine] ought to run, where and upon what he
shall bestow himself when he shall be at liberty, which is now so
much spoken of and expected, though my fear of the worst makes
me still suspicious, for Bavaria sticks like a bur in my throat, yet I
cannot see how the French can do themselves any good by his longer
detention. I beseech you to keep that clause very secret which
concerns the officers of the army of Saxe-Weimar. And now I
come nearer to Whitehall, where you will perceive that Sec. Coke's
lodgings are empty; he is at his house at Garlick-hill. Here has
been and is notable bustling. Some of your friends wish you here
in the court; others wish your presence in the parliament; all wish
you in England. The Lord Keeper keeps such a clatter in his new
place, that they are already more weary of him in the Chancery than
they were before in the Common Pleas. The Court, as it is generally
taken notice of, is divided into a double faction; the Lieutenant
of Ireland goes on still in a close high way; Sir H. Vane marches
after him in a more open posture. Some wise men marvel why
his lordship would so palpably affront (that word is used)
Sir H. Vane to take the barony of Raby over his head, who was
capable of the honour and, as 'tis said pretended unto it himself; others
give the Lord Lieutenant reason, as being heir general to the
honor by descent; but most certain it is, that fiery feud there is
between them. It may be the better for lookers on, for this will
make them both carry their bodies swimmingly. The Scottish
committees are arrived, and will be admitted to their first audience
on Sunday next; I pray God his Majesty may receive that humble
submission and satisfaction from them for his honour and the good
of the kingdom as may confirm a settled pacification, which, I
suppose, is most heartily wished by most honest good men, though
his Majesty should somewhat connive at their obstinacy in the
point of bishops, for upon that pin the whole business will hang.
It is thought that the writs for the parliament will go forth about
a fortnight hence. I will not add more here, but refer you to the
enclosed for the rest. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 7.
Bishopthorpe. |
55. Archbishop Neile, of York, to Sec. Windebank. In your
last letters you desired that either Mr. Alvey or myself should give
you an account of what the Bishop of Durham did upon receipt
of your letters to him. I presume that the bishop in good manners
has written to inform you of the receipt of your letters and of
his doing according to the directions given him. To discharge
what you expect from me, I make bold to send you the enclosed
papers, which, though they be too long and too many, yet I pray
you to accept of them, and having read them at leisure, to judge
of the carriage of the business. I presume you have received
information from Sir William Belassis and Sir John Marlay what
they have done upon your letters. Thanks for your great favours
vouchsafed me in all my occasions, wherein my brother Dr. Newell,
by my directions, is bold to trouble you. [Seal with arms. ¾ p.] |
Feb. 8.
Whitehall. |
Minutes by Nicholas of business transacted this day at the
Council of War. Resolved that there shall be deducted from
the pay of the infantry 4d. per week for six months towards the
charge of their tents, and 4d per week for clothes, stockings, and
shoes. The counties to be sent to for supply of horses for drawing
cannon and train of artillery, as the last year. For the train of
artillery 1,000 horses; the pay 12d. per diem each, and 8d. for a
carter. The harness to be provided by the King. [Written on
the same paper as Feb. 6, No. 43. ⅓ p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
56. Copy of the first resolution of the above minutes. [⅓ p.] |
Feb. 8.
Whitehall. |
57. Order of the Council of War. That the Earl of Newport and
officers of Ordnance present in writing to this Board an estimate of
the charge for arming a troop of harquebusiers with pistols and
carbines, besides saddles and furniture for horse; also a note of how
much of the 21,285l. 10s. for the charge of provisions for the train
of artillery is to be presently paid, and when the rest is to be paid,
that warrants may be given for timely issuing of money accordingly.
[Draft. ¾ p.] |
Feb. 8.
Whitehall. |
58. Memorial for Sec. Vane to move his Majesty concerning
saltpetre and gunpowder. Almost identical with the requests
submitted by Samuel Cordewell, the King's gunpowder-maker, to
the Lords, and calendared under date February 4, Nos. 22 and
23. [1 p] |
| Feb. 8. |
59. Particular note specifying the several items of all the total
charges for the train of artillery; total, 21,285l. 18s. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
60. Total of the charge of the train of artillery; viz., for supply
of the grand proportion 21,285l. 18s., and for the monthly charge
of payment of the train of artillery and hire of horses for the same,
2,868l. 7s. 4d. [2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
61. The joint and several answers of William Hugessen and
Richard Sladden to the information of Sir John Bankes, AttorneyGeneral, in a suit depending in the Exchequer. First, Hugessen
saith that he believes it to be true that his Majesty is lawfully
seized in right of the crown of and in the castle of Walmer, Kent,
and that the late Sir George Pirkins was captain of the castle and
lord of the manor of Walmer, but whether he encroached and added
the land lying between the moat and the sea he knows not. He
further deposes that since he has been owner of the manor he has
destroyed the conies in all the grounds there, but denies that his
Majesty ever had any right or title to any of the lands adjoining
to the castle, or that defendant ought to be liable for the repair and
maintenance of the bank or cliff against the sea. [10 pp.] |
| Feb. 8. |
62. Account by Sir William Russell and Henry Vane, treasurers
of the navy, of ship-money received by virtue of writs of 1636.
Total received 189,630l. 4s. 3d., leaving 6,984l. 3s. 5d. in arrear.
[1 p] |
| Feb. 8. |
63. Similar account of ship-money for 1638. Total received
53,888l. 0s. 4d., in arrear 15,861l. 19s. 8d. Received since the
making out of this certificate 50l. 8s. 4d. from the late mayor of
Barnstaple, Devon. Also on account of the arrears of 1637, 50l.
from the late sheriff of Wilts. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
64. Account of ship-money for 1638 levied and remaining in the
hands of the sheriffs, total 860l.; making, with the 53,888l. paid to
the treasurers of the navy, 54,748l. This week, 40l. of the 1636
arrears and 50l. of the 1637 arrears had been paid, but no part of
the arrears for 1635. The arrears of ship-money were: for 1635,
4,536l.; 1636, 7,009l.; 1637, 17,414l.; and 1638, 15,861l. Total,
44,820l. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
65. Bill and receipt of Daniel Brattell, sinker, for 3l. 16s. 10d., in
payment of goods delivered for the King's service in the mint from
24th August 1637 till 26th August 1639. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
Release to Sir Abraham Williams, whereby he is discharged of
1,000 marks rent per annum and arrearages due by virtue of letters
patent granted to him and others, 15 James I., for 21 years. These
letters, which were for licensing pedlers and petty chapmen, being
shortly after condemned and cancelled in parliament. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 9. |
Dispensation to John Weekes, B.D., enabling him to hold, together
with the rectory of Sherwell, Devon, the vicarage of Banwell,
Somerset, in the diocese of Bath and Wells, for three years, with a
clause of permutation for any others within the distance of 30 miles.
[Docquet.] |
| Feb. 9. |
Warrant to the Exchequer and to the Society of Soapmakers of
London to pay, out of the moneys to be by them received for the
years 1640 and 1641, to the Earl of Manchester, 4,000l., lent by him
to his Majesty with interest at the rate of 8l. per cent. per annum.
[Docquet.] |
| Feb. 9. |
Petition of Sir Walter Roberts, Bart., to the King. That upon
the death of George Gage, the undertakers being petitioner's
partners, made choice of petitioner, as one experienced in works
of that nature, to have the ordering and oversight of the aqueduct,
which they contracted with your Majesty to bring from Hoddesdon,
in Herts, to London and Westminster, in a channel of brick or stone,
and his election was confirmed by the Lord Treasurer and Lord Cottington, and by an order in council; this trust and employment
petitioner has faithfully performed ever since Michaelmas 1638,
and has put the business in such forwardness that if he be suffered
to go on without interruption he shall this summer perfect six miles
of the aqueduct. Though nothing has been done in this work since
Mr. Gage's death, except under petitioner's direction, who this year
has saved the company above 300l., and will save 3,000l. in the
whole work, if his direction be followed, yet some of the undertakers,
merely because petitioner would not consent that 870l. of the money
which your Majesty has appointed for that work should be lent to
Mr. Rawleigh at interest, have discharged him of his employment
without any allowance for his care and pains in the past, and have
chosen Messrs. Rawleigh and Newce, men who have had no
experience at all in works of this nature, in his stead to your
Majesty's disservice and the scandal of petitioner. Prays the King
to favour him so far as to hear this cause in person, and to settle
the business in such manner as he shall find most beneficial, and for
the good of the work. Underwritten, |
|
I. Reference to the Lord Treasurer and to the Lords Goring and
Cottington, who are to determine these differences if they
can, or else to certify the King the true state of the
business, together with their opinions, when he will signify
his further pleasure. Whitehall, 9th Feb. 1639-40.
[Copy. See Book of Petitions, Vol. cccciii., p. 148. 1⅓ p.] |
Feb. 9.
Edinburgh Castle. |
66. Patrick Lord Ettrick to the King. Your Majesty's ships
Expedition and Providence arrived here on Thursday last, and
Capt. Shipman delivered your letters to the provost about 4 p.m., who
would not suffer him to go to the castle that evening lest he should
be offered some violence by the common people, then apt to mutiny,
as he pretended. The provost kept the keys of the house where
the Captain lodged that night, and in the morning I sent my
secretary to conduct him to the castle, which he did, no affront
being offered him by the way. At 8 a.m. I received your letters,
and forthwith required an answer from the provost, letting him
understand that I should esteem the delay of his answer no less
than a denial, and that I must that day send post to your Majesty
an account of the business, which the more hastened the Council to
convene about it, who, having met that day, showed me their
particular willingness to obey your commands, but withal desired
to gain the consent of the common people, that they might not
any way disturb them in their performance of the service, which
they both promised me should be done the next morning, and also
used their diligence therein, as I conceive really, and have promised
me that the service shall be in every particular performed according
to your letters, in which they will begin to-morrow early in the
morning, according to the contents of their letters, herewith sent
to your Majesty, on which they had not fully resolved until Saturday
night about 6 o'clock. The Earl of Rothes being come to Edinburgh
two hours before, whom they sent for, at which time they knew
I was ready to send post to your Majesty to signify their delays,
which, with the fear also of some further danger, made them
forthwith give me their full answer, expressed in their letters to
your Majesty. When I have seen their performance, I shall give
you a speedy account thereof, and also of any neglect in the service
through their occasion. I should not have thus long deferred to
give you account of this business, had I not seen fair appearance
that your commands herein would be obeyed. I humbly desire to
receive your answer to my letters of the 27th ult., which the Lord
Commissioner [Traquair] received of me to send to you with all
speed, as well as your articles of war, that I may use such discipline
here as you may not disapprove of, for I have hitherto forborne to
inflict such severe punishment as some have deserved, which may
cause further insolencies, if they are not prevented; also your
directions how I shall behave myself in your service hereafter, on
all occasions that may be presented. I again desire your speedy
answer hereunto; and as long as God give me life and health I
shall not fail to use all diligence in obeying your commands, and
shall strive all ways to further your service here or in any other
particular. [Endorsed by Sec. Windebank, "Delivered to me by
his Majesty, 15th February." 2 pp.] |
Feb. 9.
Edinburgh. |
67. The provost, bailies, and council of Edinburgh to the King.
We no sooner received your Majesty's commands, which were
seconded by the earnest desires of the governor of the castle, but
with all possible diligence we bethought us how we might give
most ample testimony of our obedience, and although the admitting
of such as were not natives, [being] repugnant to the standing
laws of this kingdom, might appear to be a stumbling block to us,
as likewise the way how to give satisfaction to the minds of many
who apprehended great danger from the extraordinary provision of
ammunition in the hands of such as were not natives, has been
most difficult, yet to stop the mouths of our adversaries and to
give your Majesty an undoubted proof how tender our minds are
in the point of obedience to your commands, and to shun the
smallest ground of misconstruction, we have resolved to the
uttermost of our powers to obey all these your Majesty's commandments without delay, whereof so soon as the minds of the
inhabitants, whose help we must use, having no others, are prepared
and the work going on, we shall render your Majesty a more full
account, which we hope will be within a few days; like as we shall
never fail in the truth of our hearts to pray that your Majesty may
long and prosperously reign over your most humble, loyal, and
obedient subjects the provost, bailies, and council of your burgh of
Edinburgh. (Signed by) William Dick, provost; and George Suttie,
Stephen Boyde, James Rucherd, and John Binny, bailies. [Endorsed by Sec. Windebank, "Delivered to me by his Majesty 16th
February." 1 p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
67A. Copy of the preceding. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
68. Remonstrance of Philip Earl of Pembroke and Montgomery,
and his association in the royal fishing of Great Britain and Ireland,
to the King. That this association, in conformity to your gracious
motives proposed in your first institution of the noble work of
fishery, did about seven years ago, with great cost and labour, undertake and prosecute that improvement. Notwithstanding that, after
the establishment of a factory at the Isle of Lewis, they, by the ill
dealing of their servants, as well Scotch as English, lost the whole
of their stock adventured in the first two years, and became
deeply indebted, whereupon a number of the adventurers, contrary
to their subscriptions, forbore to make any further supply of stock:
yet the Earl and sundry of his associates, by continuing their supply
of stock and applying themselves chiefly to the herring fishery,
have attained to the true and perfect art of taking and curing
herrings, making nets and cask fit for that purpose, and building
busses, and have also found out the foreign market for that commodity. What increase this noble work, if effectually prosecuted,
will bring to navigation, what improvement to your people, what
honour to your kingdom, your Majesty sufficiently knows. But,
howsoever, by their pains and cost they have brought the enterprise
to such perfection, yet have they been encountered with other
extraordinary discouragements. The Dunkirkers and other subjects
of the King of Spain in the Low Countries have taken sundry of
their busses, imprisoned and evil entreated their men, some of whom
have died in prison, and others only saved by being ransomed at great
sums. These damages are estimated by the association at 5,000l.,
exclusive of Mr. Braems' losses, by reason whereof they are not able
without new supply of stock to set out their busses to sea again.
They can only represent this matter to your Majesty, leaving it to
you to direct some way for the continuance and support of so
excellent and profitable an employment, that a work so hopeful may
not be lost. Towards the cost of setting out their busses the next
summer, they pray a grant of a standing lottery, as the Virginia
Company had in 1612, to be managed by the most discreet of their
association, also that your Majesty would order some further course
to be taken for recovery of their damages from the Dunkirkers and
subjects of the King of Spain, and that the men, ships, and busses
belonging to this association may be protected in future. [2 pp.]
Subjoined, |
|
68. i. Upon consideration of this remonstrance, his Majesty being
present in Council, it was resolved that the Earl and the
rest of the adventurers should, if they thought fit, send an
agent to demand restitution and satisfaction for their
losses by the Dunkirkers, which being denied to them, then
letters of marque, or such other remedy as shall be found
fit, should be granted to them; and for the better support
and encouragement of that trade his Majesty is pleased,
as desired, to grant a standing lottery, like that granted to
the Virginia Company. [2/3 p.] |
Feb. 9.
Whitehall. |
69. Order of Council, the King being present. Debate was this
day had concerning the trades of bringing in and retailing sea-coal.
Ordered that a month should be given to the Lord Mayor and aldermen of the city, the Company of Woodmongers, and the hostmen of
Newcastle, or any others, to present any new propositions to the
Board for the better ordering of the coal trade and accommodation
of the city, either by a free trade or otherwise, provided that the
duty to be paid to the King be well secured; but in case such propositions and the security for the King's duty be not approved by
the Lords, then the former contract made with the society of coal
merchants and the former orders of the Board made for upholding
that contract and regulating their trade are to be ratified, as are also
the orders made by the society for the same purpose, and entered in
the council register. [Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 9.
Wonastow. |
70. John Milborne, sheriff of co. Monmouth, to the Council. In
the fifth article of my instructions you direct that I should
proceed to rate the clergy to the ship-money as other his Majesty's
subjects, and if any clergyman should find himself aggrieved upon
complaint made to his diocesan, that then I, with such other person
as the diocesan should appoint, should hear the complaint, and if
there were cause, relieve the complainant according to equity. By
virtue of which instructions Bishop Murray of Landaff and myself
met to hear the complaint of Henry James, clerk, rector of Machen,
who complained that he was rated above the tenth part of the rate
imposed upon the whole parish, which the bishop approved as a just
cause, but I would not assent to, because I had no such directions
from the Lords. I crave your speedy direction herein, for if there
happen to be any alteration in this case, all that is already done
must be altered and renewed. I find the general way of rating
the clergy and others in this county of Monmouth is by the pound
yearly, according to which rate the complainant is very easily dealt
with, and has no just cause to complain. The laity conceive that
this is the just way of rating the clergy, for if the tithes and church
profits should pay but the tenth part of the tax of the parish, then
a parsonage of 100l. or 120l. per annum should pay no more than a
farm of 50l. per annum, for the parson receives the tenths of all
the profits which the husbandman can raise out of his farm by his
stock with his own and his servants' industry, which must be more
than double the rent of his farm, or else he will not be able to live
upon it; so that where all the land in the parish is not worth above
400l. or 500l. per annum, the parsonage is most commonly worth
120l. per annum, or more. And whereas I received your letter of the
12th January requiring me to pay in the money by the 20th of
February, together with an account of my proceedings, I have to
certify you that although I used my best endeavours to perform
your directions, yet there were so many complaints made to me of
pressures and wrong dealing in the particular assessments by the
constables that I cannot possibly accomplish your commands so
speedily as is expected, unless I were to give the county just cause
to exclaim upon me. [1½ p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
Grant to Edward Mannyng, in consideration of 500l. to be paid
into the Exchequer, of 70 acres of waste, parcel of the late forest of
Selwood, Somerset, in common socage, and a discharge from all
forest laws, rights and privileges of forest, with liberty of free warren
and power to convert the same into meadow and pasture. [Docquet.] |
| Feb. 10. |
The like to Symon Plichar of a fine of 500l. imposed on John
Thierry, for cheating the former of a bar of silver, value 290l. [Docquet.] |
Feb. 10.
Whitehall. |
71. Order of the Council of War that Sir William Uvedale,
treasurer at wars, John Crane, surveyor of marine victuals, and
Nicholas Pay, clerk of the kitchen, do consider of the propositions
made for furnishing Berwick with beer by the King's brewer and
others, and do endeavour to draw them to as low a rate as they
can for the King's advantage. [Draft. 1 p.] |
Feb. 10.
Whitehall. |
72. Order of the Council of War that Montjoy, Earl of Newport,
Master of the Ordnance, Viscount Conway, Colonel Goring, Sir Jacob
Astley, and Sir Nicholas Byron, do consider of the note of ordnance
and ammunition remaining at Berwick, and certify the Board what
they conceive fit to be repaired or supplied. [Draft. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 10.
Exeter. |
73. James Tucker, late mayor, and Thomas Tucker, late sheriff of
Exeter, to the Council. Pray further time until the end of March
to collect arrears of ship-money for their term of office. [Seal with
arms. 1 p.] Enclosed, |
|
73. i. Note of the names of inhabitants within the city of Exeter
who have refused to pay their rates for ship-money the last
year. [⅓ p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
74. Commissioners for licensing the sale of tobacco to the same.
Pray the Lords to grant warrant to a messenger for apprehending
the 43 persons herein named, resident in co. Carmarthen, who in
contempt of his Majesty's commission refuse to appear to the Commissioners' summons. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
75. Certificate returned, in obedience to a Council order of the 5th
inst., of the loss sustained by certain vintners on their purchases of
wines. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 10.
Barbican. |
76. John Earl of Bridgewater to Sec. Windebank. I am sorry
that the note I sent you gave no better satisfaction to the party who
was to lend the 5,000l. I hold those lands sufficient security for a
greater sum, and if I were in case to lend, as I am enforced to
borrow that I may lend, I would confirm my opinion by my act and
would not stick at such security. If I knew the name of the
party who refuses, I think I could persuade him to be of another
mind; but since you are pleased to conceal his name and to send
me word that if I will engage one solid entire manor free from
encumbrances and of a clear title 7,000l. may be procured, I must
deal herein clearly and sincerely, as I have done and ever hope to
do, [and assure you] that I have not any manor of such value free
from engagements. I wish I had, for then it should appear, that
howsoever others may make more lustre in their show for his
Majesty's service, there should none appear more real therein than
myself. I doubt not but if I may hear where money is to be
had upon security, I shall procure more upon those lands mentioned
in my note than I offered to engage them for, and I have done and
will do all that I possibly can to make up the sum mentioned to the
Lord Treasurer and yourself. [1 p.] |
Feb. 10.
New College, Oxford. |
77. Robert Pinck, D.D., warden of New College, Oxford, to Sec.
Windebank. I received your letter sent by Dr. Reade, and will
here represent to you how far I stand engaged for my little
influence in the Winchester elections. There is now in that school
a near relative of mine whom I placed there with hope that in time
he would prove worthy of what more I might be able to do for him,
and finding him to have progressed satisfactorily in his learning, I
promised him my best help and furtherance towards his preferment
at our next election. The time has been that I could not prevail
with my co-electors so far as to have the nomination of one scholar,
but the times are now better with me; I will make it my second
care and suit to the other electors to have your kinsman in as
forward a place as I can win them to give way to, which is all that
is in my power to do. [Seal with device. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
78. Petition of Thomas Trollop to Archbishop Laud. His father's
estate lying within several dioceses, petitioner by the advice of his
counsel proved his late father's will in the prerogative court; since
which time Dr. Farmery, chancellor of Lincoln, called petitioner into
his court to prove the same will there again, which Sir Henry
Marten persuaded petitioner he could not justly do. Petitioner
being desirous of peace, requested Dr. Farmery to refer the determination of this difference to your Grace, to whom the jurisdiction
of both courts did then appertain, which he is very willing to do,
having already acquainted you with this particular business, wherewith petitioner has been put to a great deal of charge and trouble.
Prays the Archbishop to make an order in this case, to which he
promises willingly to submit. Underwritten,
|
|
78. i. Reference to Sir John Lambe, who is to speak with
Dr. Farmery and return an account of the case to the
Archbishop that he may settle this particular. [1 p.] |
Feb. 10.
Emanuel College, Cambridge. |
79. Dr. Richard Holdsworth, Archdeacon of Huntingdon, to
Sir John Lambe. Having ten days since received from you some
directions for settling the difference at St. Ives, it becomes me
now to give you an account of it, entreating you to acquaint his
Grace the Archbishop therewithal as you shall find opportunity.
On Friday last I went to St. Ives for that purpose, in order to save
the petitioners' charges, and to satisfy myself by hearing all parties
and by viewing their church. I found that although the church be
large, the communicants can both hear and see the curate at consecration of the mysteries, the height of two or three pews only
requiring to be corrected. This was their chief exception. Their
other reasons for refusing I account their own fancies, viz., that
the coming to the rail was nowhere directed in Scripture; that it is
not prescribed by law; that it is against their christian liberty to be
tied to it; that it interrupts their meditations, if they removed only
two paces from their seats; that Mr. Tooky, their sometime vicar,
being a reverend and holy man, did bring down the table into the
body of the church at the times of administration. In all these
points you will conceive it was easy enough to give them satisfaction, but that they were resolved not to take it, nor to yield to
any persuasions, though never so pious and reasonable. I feared
thus much before I came thither, some of them having let fall these
speeches, as averred by good witness: that they would fain see
who durst make an order to enjoin them to come up to the communion table; that if they were enjoined anything more than they
approved, they would not obey, but would up again to London;
and other of the like nature, only more intemperate; all which I
passed by to draw them by fair usage, but with little success, for in
their answers they were resolute, yet various. Some of them that
they would have the sacrament administered to them in their seats,
for that they would not come up to the rail, though it stood in the
midst of the church; others that they would come to the table if the
rail were taken away; others that they would come to the rail
itself if I would give [the order] under my hand; which is in sum
the course upon which I resolved, and so I gave them my order,
which I send you here enclosed. To this determination necessity
enforced me, knowing no way else to keep up discipline, neither did
I only adhere to my own judgment, but advised with divers of the
gravest ministers thereabout, who assured me I should do a great
deal of hurt to all neighbouring parishes if I suffered them to have
their will, which is one principal thing they aimed at, victory;
their intention being, as they said, to have this a leading case for all
the country. Besides, the better sort of the parishioners being sober
and ingenuous men, besought me earnestly to be sensible how great
a discouragement it would be to persons conformable, and what a
division it would breed in the body of the parish, who did well
approve of this manner of receiving, and accordingly had unanimously practised it. Therefore I hope I have not strayed either from
the rule of discretion or piety in this order, being otherwise very
inclinable to have yielded to them in this their weakness, or rather
pertinacy, if I could have swallowed so many and important considerations. Howsoever, I submit it to his Grace's approbation, and
shall be well content to recall it, if he should think any other way
more fitting. [Seal with arms, broken. 1 p.] Enclosed, |
|
79. i. Dr. Holdsworth's order, made the 8th February, for the
coming up of the communicants to the rail of the communion table in St. Ives Church. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
80. Copy of the preceding and its enclosure. [3¼ pp.] |
| [Feb. 10.] |
81. Certificate by John Rennold, curate of St. Ives, of insolencies
uttered by some of the parishioners, touching the order for coming
up to the communion table and the intervention of Dr. Holdsworth. |
Feb. [10.]
Office of Ordnance. |
82. The Officers of Ordnance to Montjoy Earl of Newport. By
your warrant of the 5th inst. we understand that the Lords have
resolved that there should be always in constant readiness in the
magazine in the Tower a quantity of all sorts of timber useful for
making gun carriages, platforms, and other necessary uses for land
and sea. You further required us to make an estimate of the value
of the timber at present in the custody of Matthew Bankes, his
Majesty's master carpenter for the Ordnance, according to a survey
lately made by Capt. Coningsby, and to certify you our opinions
whether the timber may be securely kept where it now remains, or
otherwise what the charge would be to remove it into his Majesty's
stores; also what timber is necessary to be felled the year ensuing
to make that already surveyed into a complete store, so that the
Lords may order the money to be issued to defray the charge. In
obedience to the Lords' direction and resolution we return this
answer: That for the timber in the possession of Bankes we cannot
make a more particular estimate of the valuation. If money be
not forthwith issued for the said timber, Bankes desires liberty to
dispose thereof for his best advantage, not being otherwise able to
subsist through having so great a stock lying dead on his hands.
We think it our duty to inform the Lords that if this proportion of
timber be disposed of for other uses than for his Majesty's occasions,
such a parcel cannot suddenly be had for money. Recommend that
Bankes be satisfied for the timber, the value of which amounts to
1,600l., it will make 300 [gun] carriages, with their appurtenances,
6,000 foot for platforms, and 300 tons to make joists. We are of
opinion that the timber is better and safer to remain where it is
than to be removed into the Tower. As to what addition of timber
is necessary to be felled the year ensuing, we cannot positively
answer, it being impossible for us to set down a certain proportion
for completing his Majesty's stores, but we understand from
Mr. Bankes that there is a bargain of well-seasoned timber now
offered him to the value of 4,000l. [Copy. 1⅓ p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
83. John Nicholas to his son Edward Nicholas. Your sister
Ryves is deeply thankful that you will be willing to assist her
in her just suit. I have read over your letter again and again
wherein you wrote you saw no reason for the suit, since the possession and lease both were delivered, but cannot comprehend your
meaning. For the cries made to me against you, of which you
say you are not ignorant, I cannot imagine what you mean thereby,
and wish you would let me know it, for I cannot nor ever will
conceal anything from you. Your sister desires you will own her,
and when she has cause, that you will afford her your countenance,
being all she desires, which your letter promises, and I doubt not
you will perform, for you are kind to strangers. [Seal with crest
and arms. 2 pp.] |
| Feb. 10. |
84. William Middelton to John Gascoign, at Arundel gate-house,
London. Your letter came not to my hands until after Mr. Hungate's departure hence. I am from my mother to give you many
thanks. They have given her some hope of my brother's recovery,
of whom she formerly despaired. The Lords Covenanters who are
now at court made some stay at Wetherby, as they pretended to
frame their petitions to the King. I rather believe they expected
some advertisement from their friends near his Majesty how to
proceed; whatsoever be the event, I assure you, they spoke here
most insolently in their own justification, comparing the King to a
school boy under his pedagogue, I use their phrase, who by himself
had given them satisfaction, but now under that command had
infringed them; the man of this extreme power they intimate to be
my Lord of Canterbury. This they freely spoke to one of their own
nation who told it me. [Seal with arms broken. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
85. A relation concerning the Scots' proceedings, their natures
and present estate, with their intentions and some ways to animate
this country against them and divide themselves, by one who has
long resided in Scotland. [2¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 10. |
86. A note of money to be issued for ordnance stores to be set in
hand for the army. Total, 9,000l. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
87. Estimate of the charge of the army, distributed under several
heads. Total, 382,611l. [Draft by Nicholas. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
88. A note received by Nicholas from the Office of Ordnance of
the number of saddles in the stores in London and the North,
total, 1,783; also the proportion which the saddler belonging to
that office will undertake to deliver monthly, viz., 80. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
89. Certificate of the state of accompts in the suit of Benjamin
Lewis against Edith Becconsawe. The plaintiff is to answer to
the defendant, 157l. being the remainder of the rent. [2/3 p.] |
