|
July 8. Portsmouth Dockyard. |
1. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Shall be glad to make
an exchange of timber with the garrison, which has beams, &c.,
suitable for the new ship, and it is a pity to cut such pieces into
palisades. Never saw so much gallant compass timber as now lies
in the yard; should it please God to continue health among the
labourers, by Michaelmas there will be sufficient to build a second,
fourth, and fifth-rate ship, and more is daily coming in. The brazier's
servants hired by the day, receive 2s. 6d. a day, with washing and
lodging, but he does not give nearly so much to those hired by the
year. [Adm. Paper, 1½
pages.] |
July 8/18. Nieuport. |
2. Thos. Bowyer to Williamson. The danger of a passage to
Dover detains many Englishmen on that side the water; keeps safe
the scarfs committed to him by Mr. Kent for Williamson; asks
leave to bring them over in a frigate which is to be sent for Sir
Wm. Swan, and also the seamen, now grown to 100 in Nieuport, as
soon as a ship can be spared. |
July 8. Hull. |
3. Col. Anth. Gilby to Williamson. Sir Robt. Leach, M. Sylvius,
who says he is the Queen's servant, and eight others have landed in
Holderness on the King's business, coming in a Scotch ship from
Nieuport, where they left Sir Wm. Swan. They saw eight or ten
ships at anchor off Yarmouth; some say they are Dutch men-of-war,
others colliers. The Speedwell has sailed with soldiers and seamen
for the fleet. |
July 8. |
4. John Clarke to Williamson. The Victory is waiting for the
Orange, which is to cruise with her in the Soundings. The Earl of
Bath is at Exeter, but is coming to Plymouth to settle affairs in the
west. Those parts are free from contagion. |
July 8. Plymouth. |
5. John Clarke to James Hickes. To the same effect. |
July 8. The Lily, Margate Road. |
6. Thos. Langley to Lord Arlington. Will be happy to give his
lordship all tidings possible, if he may have leave from the generals.
Is going to the fleet; five or six Holland scouts have been in sight,
also the Sorlings and Nightingale, with men for the fleet. |
July 8. Portsmouth. |
7. And. Newport to Williamson. The works advance, but the
sickness deters, and the harvest calls away labourers, so that there
are few hands at work but the soldiers; 2,000l. was received from
Somersetshire for the fortifications, and 1,000l is spent; more should
be provided, for the contract with Sir Wm. Berkeley and Sir
Bernard De Gomme came to above 4,000l. The sickness increases,
and 22 died of it last week. [1½
pages.] |
July 8. Falmouth. |
8. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Particulars of four prizes
taken in 14 days by the Swallow privateer; they report that the
French are in great fear lest the English should land, and that when
they saw them near the shore, they flocked to the water side with
their guns, and fired the beacons. The Three Kings, a great vessel,
has come in from Ostend, but gives no account of the Dutch fleet. |
July 8. Berwick. |
9. M. Scott to Williamson. Capt Atchinson has brought a French
salt prize into Leith; his frigate has seven men killed and
wounded by a French merchantman of 15 guns and 200 men, who
concealed men and guns till the frigate was close upon her. The
Scotch fleet from London with their convoy have passed Berwick. |
July 8. York. |
10. Jo. Mascall to Williamson. Sixty colliers have come into
Newcastle, and will leave on Monday with 220 laden ships; they put
200 land soldiers on board the two frigates that convoy them. The
Duke of Buckingham has issued warrants to the chief constables, to
watch the beacons, and on their firing, every man between 16 and
60 is to appear at the rendezvous for the hundred, with his best
arms, to be directed by the deputy lieutenants. Another warrant
is preparing for raising money. Field pieces are much wanted in
case of invasion. Encloses, |
10. i. Warrant to the Chief Constables of the West Riding of Yorkshire to issue warrants to the petty constables to raise
voluntary contributions in the proportion of 2,000l. on
the whole, to furnish a magazine to defend the lives,
estates, and families of the people against an invasion
intended by the Dutch and French; to guard against this,
the King has sent the lord lieutenants into the several
counties to put the forces into order, which are useless
without a settled magazine for arms and ammunition.
The money is to be paid in four days at York, to Sir
Hen. Thomson, appointed treasurer. [Copy.] |
July 8. |
11. Edw. Colman to Williamson. Has been unable to send certain papers sooner, having been extremely ill. |
July 8. Dover. |
12. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. According to orders, the custom
house boat will soon be fitted out with ten stout men; will get protection for them against the press from the governor of the castle.
Sends his account and wants his salary. The coasts of France are
lined with soldiers; at Nieuport are 80 English seamen from the
Essex, who got out of Holland, but dare not venture over without
a convoy, because five Dutch men-of-war lie about the Foreland. |
July 9. Bristol. |
13. Jo. Fitzherbert to [Williamson]. The French fleet is still
about Lisbon, and has landed 8,000 or 10,000 men to assist the
Portuguese against the Spaniards. The Virginia fleet still waits a
convoy at Kinsale. The merchants look very blank, on news of six
Barbadoes' ships taken. None have died of the sickness this week. |
July 9. Monday noon, Royal Charles. |
14. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. Finding by Sir Jeremy
Smith, who has arrived, that much is still to be done on the London,
it is proposed to sail on Saturday next, without waiting for the ships
of force in the river. Thinks it will be the Saturday following, which
will be a spring tide, as the generals are not inclined to hurry
away whilst there are any hopes of good seamen to be sent; supplies
come daily, but complaints increase, some without cause, but others
with too much reason. Sir Thos. Allin declares seriously that his
squadron wants 1,000 able seamen; his Rear-Admiral Utber's absence
at Harwich is a great prejudice to him, for a chief officer being
wanting, little help is given to the captains; the best men are
picked away, and the refuse are pitiful fellows; many have no
shirts and scarce rags to cover them, and fall sick in three or four
days; some come sick, not without suspicion of the plague. Tries
to lessen the King's charge by having such men discharged rather
than sent to the hospitals. The Sorlings and Nightingale have
brought in 300 able men from Plymouth. The fleet is now 90 menof-war and 11 fire-ships. Col. Legg may show him a list of the
fleet, but the orders are for none to be given out. The Lord
General is much troubled that Lord Townsend is not in the list of
those who are to command standing troops. He says the Kent
militia might have been spared the rendezvous which they are
ordered to attend, and also to bring a month's pay with them, to be
repaid by the King before they bring another month's pay. Sir
Fras. Clarke has brought in 120 men from Rochester, but few seamen
among them; he says they are the last that the deputy lieutenants in
his parts press; if the press cease in other places, there is no reason
why the fleet should stay longer, as there is so little hope of the ships
in the river. With postscript, 8 p.m., that the Dutch are still off
the Longsands, and their scouts in the Gunfleet; that the Loyal
Merchant has come in from the river, and that Sir Rob. Holmes
has gone up the river to bring down the other ships if possible.
[3 pages.] |
July 9. Royal Charles. |
15. Prince Rupert to [Lord Arlington]. Sends a letter as desired to his sister the Duchess of Brunswick; is sure she will be
pleased with anything that may bring a correspondence between
her and the English Court. Hopes to be ready to set forward on
Monday. |
July 9. [Norwich.] |
16. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. People post out of town
because the plague has broken out in two houses in the marketplace; has seen at least 10 carts of household stuff, &c., laden
away; a great increase is feared this week. |
July 9. Hull. |
17. Luke Whittington to Williamson. Thinks Capt. Lightfoot
has put to sea. Sir Edw. Leech and others have arrived, being
put to shore near the Humber mouth. A pickeroon has taken a
small coal vessel from the Humber, and plundered a boat. |
July 9. Lynn. |
18. Edw. Bodham to Williamson. Since the impress 14 days
ago, 70 able seamen have been found by assistance of shipmasters,
and will be sent to the fleet. The place is in health, and watch is
kept to prevent people from Cambridge, Norwich, and Peterborough,
where the sickness is, from coming in. Wants a small sixth-rate
frigate to cruise in the bay, and keep off a Dutch privateer that
infests the coasts, and has taken a yacht of the town, which was
quitted by her men, after a two hours' fight. |
July 9. Dover. |
19. Warham Jemmett, sen., to Lord Arlington. Findsfrom Edmund
Custis, of Bruges, that too certain intelligence of affairs at home
reaches the other side; has sent no persons over in his boats for two
months, except prisoners cleared by order in exchange, but Mr.
Carlisle sometimes sends over passengers with his lordship's certificates, in Nieuport shallops sent with expresses; spies are chiefly
supposed to pass about Hyde and Rumney; some express order,
under special penalty, should be given for no one to pass either way,
unless their certificates are examined by the governor. Complains
that his vessel from Nieuport with the mail was boarded by a
French shallop, the mail broken open, and one of the seamen
stripped to his shirt. Wishes Conte Charost to be written to about
this abuse, as most of the men were Calais men. The vessel had
the French king's protection. Unless something can be done, seamen
will decline the service. |
July 9. Dover. |
20. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Has persuaded the men to go
out in the boat for once, though they have not their protections
yet; begs these from Lord Arlington for 11 seamen named, as the
governor vows he cannot give protections, having an order to the
contrary. Has been with Lord Middleton at the castle. A boat
from Quinborough reports the Dutch fleet to lie at the buoy in the
Gunfleet, drinking healths, vapouring, and firing guns. Col. Titus
says they die most sadly at Deal. Scarce any house is clear from
infection. |
July 9. Truro. |
21. Hugh Acland to Williamson. Capt. Manning, a privateer,
has taken three prizes, laden with linen, salt, and iron; one he took
at anchor in Concquett Road, and gave the enemy such an alarm
that they fired their beacons, and drew their forces to the seaside;
Capt. Hall has taken a salt prize. Beaufort's fleet is said to be
about Lisbon. |
July 9. Swansea. |
22. Jo. Man to Williamson. The Governor of Jersey sends
vessels over for coal; the island is in a gallant posture of defence,
and will be daily improved by the indefatigable industry of the
governor. He and other gentlemen have set out two or three
privateers which have taken 11 French prizes. |
July 9. Bridlington. |
23. Jo. Bower to James Hickes. At Sister churches, 20 miles
southward, 10 men were landed from a French sloop on the 7th,
well dressed and armed, and with heavy portmanteaus; they would
give no account of themselves, and were therefore secured and sent
to Hull. Hears nothing of raising forces, and the country being
very open, the inhabitants are fearful. Frigates are riding at
Tynemouth and Scarborough to take in soldiers. |
July 9. Weymouth. |
24. John Pocock to James Hickes. The Nonsuch has carried
into Cowes a Lubecker of 300 tons, laden with wines, supposed to
be a prize, and the Eagle ketch two other prizes. The Guinea fleet of
13 sail has gone for Plymouth. Capture and sinking of the French
St. Malo vessel by the Norwich [Orange ?] frigate; it had tons of
silver and gold on board; 500 militia are expected, and two regiments are to be quartered on the coasts. |
July 9. Languard Point Fort. |
25. Lieut. Edw. Suckley to James Hickes. The Rupert and a
frigate are still in harbour, also a great old ship that is to be made
a fair ship of. A smack full of pressed men has gone for the buoy
in the Nore. The English fleet is hourly expected at the Gunfleet. |
July 9. Royal Charles. |
26. Sir Thos. Clifford to Williamson. Refers him for news to
his letter to Lord Arlington, and also to Col. Legg. Will speak to the
generals to settle places of address for his letters. |
July 9. Chester. |
27. Tho. Baker to Williamson. The trained bands there and in
North Wales are called out, but want ammunition. Lord Carbery
has appointed a rendezvous at Llewenny Green, near Denbigh, where
Col. Robinson will be with his foot, and John Salisbury with his
horse; thence his lordship will go to Flint, to meet Sir Roger
Mostyn's foot and Sir John Hamer's horse; thence to Carnarvonshire to Sir Rich. Wynne's, and thence to Anglesea to Lord Bulkeley's.
It concerns all to bestir themselves, for the fanatics, who will never
be good, prick up their ears. |
July 9. Llyssin. |
28. Lord Herbert of Cherbury to Williamson. Sends a letter
from the deputy lieutenants of Montgomeryshire, of whom he is
one, about their provisions in case of an engagement; also one from
himself, offering services if the King raise any new forces. Has
written plainly to Lord Arlington, as thinking it fitting in persons
of condition and quality; begs a speedy reply sent to Llyssin,
where Lord Carbery will be in a few days. |
July 9. Maidenhead. |
29. Sir Tobias Bridges to Williamson. Wants the commissions of
Mr. Carlston, who will pay the requisite, and of Thos. Wingfield,
who is to be the writer's quartermaster. With a note from Charles
Duke of Richmond and Lenox, requesting that the Gazette and
news may be sent him weekly, and he will pay for them. |
July 9. |
30. Information of Rob. Meggs, of Clement's Inn. Was told by
Reeves, a shoemaker in Hart Street, Covent Garden, that he had
received letters from Ireland, one of which he was desired to
send to the secretary at Brussels; it said that the gentry in Ireland
were discontented with the court of claims there. |
July 9. |
Warrant [from Lord Arlington] to Sir John Robinson, to permit
Mrs. Wallop to remain prisoner with her husband, and one maid
servant to attend her. Minute. [Ent Book 23, p. 105.] |
July 9. Buoy of the Nore. |
31. Capt Boteler Barnes to the Navy Comrs. Belongs to Sir Jos.
Jordan's division, and was ordered to press seamen; represented
to Mr. Pepys that three of the pressed men from the Loyal Subject
were carried off; requests orders for the tickets and clothes of those
still left on board; no ship in the fleet is so distressed for want of
men. [Adm. Paper.] |
July ? |
32. Navy Comrs. to Phineas Pett. Are satisfied with his proceedings in surveying and contracting for masts in Scotland, and
now require him to return thither, to finish the work, having pro
vided present money and payment for contractors in Scotland; he is
to fulfil previous contracts, hasten the masts to the place of shipping,
perfect the treaty with Lord Seaforth for 200 loads of timber, but
buy no other goods without directions. [Minute draft, by Pepys.
Adm. Paper.] Annexing, |
32. i. Request by Phineas Pett to Sam. Pepys, for instructions
relative to his journey to Scotland, to which the above is
a reply. |
July 9. Yarmouth. |
33. Thos. Dunn to Sam Pepys. Is informed that Phin. Pett is in
health and has been seen in the town, but arrived too late for passage in the ships, and intended to go to Scotland; a Swedish vessel
and an Ostender have passed the roads; they were both on board
De Ruyter, but vary in their reports; the enemy lies between Harwich and the Ness, and the north coast has been troubled with
Dutch and French capers. Particulars of other ships. [Adm.
Paper.] |
July 9. Ordnance Office. |
34. Edw. Sherburne to Sam. Pepys. The Companion and
Samuel and Ann, being employed for the transportation of ammunition to Barbadoes, are to have an order to wear jacks. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 9. Sherwood. |
35. John Russell, purveyor, to the Navy Comrs. Wants material
for repairs of the Adam and Eve, and money for defraying the charge;
a quantity of timber and plank lies at the wharf, requiring six or
seven hoys to carry it away. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 10. Durance. |
36. Sir Hen. Wroth to Sir Wm. Coventry. Is glad of the permission to send pressed men to the Tower; it prevents great charge
and trouble for that part of the country, in getting boats to send
them on board the ships; has pressed 90, "all good bodies of men,
neither an old man nor a boy amongst them;" should have doubled
the number, but some rogues alarmed the country by giving themselves out to be press masters; discharged 70 who were unfit for
service. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 10. |
37. Sir Wm. Warren to the Navy Comrs. Hears that Capt.
Taylor has taken up the Pelican as a fire-ship; has quarter-part
interest in her; is content that she should go to sea in the present
expedition, on condition of her restoration on return, or her full
value if burnt. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 10. Wapping. |
38. Wm. Wood to the Navy Comrs. Begs payment of his bill of
500l. for masts and freight of ships; has freely parted with his goods,
and not demanded money till compelled by urgent occasions. [Adm.
Paper.] |
July 10. |
39. Certificate by — Robinson of his having examined the
differences in the cause of Serjeant J. Hyde, attorney, v. John Rose,
according to an order of 15th June; finds that though the plaintiff had
sent out writs against several persons, and had them arrested for
the defendant, the latter denies the same by oath, and refusing to
pay the sums due to the plaintiff as his lawyer, brought an indictment of barretry against him, on which he was convicted, being
unprepared to reply, but offered 1,000l. to be put on a new trial. |
July 10. |
40. Petition of Stephano de Campis, of Venice, to the King, for
a pass for the ship Constantino Imperatore e Santa Helena, from
London to Ostend and thence to Italy, the said ship having been
before taken by one of His Majesty's frigates, but cleared in the
Court of Admiralty. |
July 10. Plymouth. |
41. John Clarke to James Hickes. The 13 Guinea ships are at
Torbay, and will call at Plymouth for ships bound for Portugal,
Barbadoes, &c. |
July 10. |
42. John Clarke to Williamson. To the same effect. |
July 10. Plymouth. |
43. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. An Ostender reports that many
Dutch ships have gone home from Bourdeaux, laden with wines, and
many more will go in a few days. The French fleet is said to be
gone from Rochelle, to join the Dutch, and Beaufort is daily
expected. |
July 10. Custom House, Barnstaple. |
44. P. Manaton to James Hickes. Thanks for letters; has no
news worth notice. |
July 10. Boston. |
45. Robert Grey to James Hickes. A privateer has taken two
ships of the town, and fired a third; a vessel with 50 men was sent
to seek her, but she was gone. A man-of-war is much wanted;
privateers appear daily on the coasts, so that they dare not stir.
With note [by Hickes to Williamson] that this honest man is the
correspondent whom he has engaged in Boston. |
July 10. |
46. Fras. Manley to Williamson. Requests favour in the passing
of a warrant for Mr. Matthews, who is a friend of Mr. Newport, but
the latter is unfortunately out of town. |
July 10. Dover. |
47. J. Carlisle to Williamson. Urges a protection for the seamen
for the boat; it is ten to one if they be not impressed. Capt. Lusey,
commander of a Dover privateer, has brought in a Danish ship, laden
with iron and brandy, but having a pass from Sweden, it is doubtful
whether it will prove a prize. The Dutch fleet is said to have gone
nearer home. |
July 10. Margate. |
48. Joh. Smith to Williamson. There has been a general muster
of horse and foot, Lord Middleton, the general, being present. Is
desired to direct his letters to John Cook, secretary to Sir Wm.
Morice, and will do so unless countermanded by Williamson. |
July 10. Edinburgh. |
49. Rob. Meine to Williamson. The appearance of 20 sail in
Leith harbour made it supposed that the Scottish fleet was returning,
but it was merchant ships returning under convoy from London,
with a great ship to carry back some masts from the north of Scot
land, bought by Phineas Pett, but which are reported to have been
burned in a wood twelve miles long by three broad, which was burnt
down. There are not more than 2,000 stand of arms in Scotland,
so that though the people are forward to arm, they are unable. |
July 10. Newcastle. |
50. Rich. Forster to Williamson. The fleet for London still rides
in or near the harbour; they are 300 sail, there and at Sunderland.
The press goes on lamely, for the seamen and labouring men from
the coal works go into the country, and hide themselves in woods
and remote places, great numbers together, to the dishonour of the
whole country that they suffer it; hopes this will be redressed at
the coming of the Earl of Carlisle, who is much honoured and loved
amongst all people in those parts. Some masters were pressed yesterday, on purpose to bring out their men. |
July 10. Southwold. |
51. Willm. Waynfleet to Williamson. Particulars of Dutch
vessels seen off the coast; on Friday there were 11 sail, and Col.
Sir John Rous, who had discharged his own company and Sir John
Pettus's, which lay at Southwold, sent some soldiers to join those of
the town, and kept guard that night; the next day he ordered
Capt. Playter's company to quarter in the town, and it remains
there. Flashes of fire have been seen a league to the south, and six
vessels full of men. Southwold being an island environed with salt
water, might be made the strongest in those parts; it has nine good
guns, but only four fixed, and not ammunition for two hours' skirmish; the town is poor and cannot do what it would, and the
country does not help, though they say it would be their destruction
if the town were held by an enemy; it is the nearest town in
England to Holland, and the best bay. |
July 10. Harwich. |
52. Silas Taylor to Williamson. A Dutch hoy has set ashore 20 men
and boys from Holland, and they say there are 100 more coming, who
were taken in the last engagement. They complain of hard usage, and
extravagant insults. A gentleman from Nieuport writes, June 20,/July 10,
the English must own their loss extraordinary, and not believe that
the Hollanders will come to sea no more, for they are out with
86 men-of-war, 12 fire-ships, and 15 ammunition galliots, and 42 sail
more are preparing; that the coast of France is provided with
ammunition and men in case the fight happen near there; that the
Hollanders' rejoicings were infamous; they painted Sir George
Ayscough over with a long tail and train, and set fire to it and
blew him up; spat and flung dirt at the seamen, and confirm their
brags by coming to sea so soon. The writer of this letter is very
zealous for the English interest, and has employed all the religious
to pray for them; wishes a vizard put on this news, if used, that
the writer may not recognise it in the Gazette. Position of
the Dutch fleet: looks sharp after the English fleet, but it has not
yet appeared. De Ruyter dated the pass which he gave the
Frenchman who brought over the Scotch regiment, "from the
river Thames." The writer hears that he has been severely
reflected on for his letter on the last engagement. [2 pages.] |
July 10. Walmer. |
53. John Lindsey to [Williamson]. Two Dutch men-of-war
came into Margate bay, but did no harm. A small merchant ship
bound for Ireland was boarded, but let pass, the crew being
Spaniards. The sickness increases at Deal. |
July 10. Harwich. |
54. Fras. Newby to James Hickes. The Dutch fleet seems
retiring to their own coasts, being sensible that the English fleet
will soon give them a visit. |
July 10. Haigh. |
55. Sir Roger Bradshaigh to Williamson. They have put the
militia in order, on the King's command, and their own apprehensions of an invasion; the country shows great forwardness to be
as ready as the forces. All the gentry are to meet at Preston to
understand one another; many commissions for volunteers will be
accepted, and officers will have their particular posts assigned, in
case of the firing of the beacons. A French and a Dutch man-ofwar are on those coasts. |
July 10. Billing. |
56. Lord O'Brien to [Williamson]. Went to Ireland to settle the
small estate which his father was with difficulty drawn to confer
on him, but was told in a week that the troop in which he had a
commission was to be set up; therefore, having engaged himself to
the Earl of Northampton, though offered the command of a troop
by the Lord Lieutenant [of Ireland], left his business undone,
returned home, and finds to his astonishment that on the reducing
of his lordship's regiment to three troops, he [the writer] is
absolutely cast off. In his absence, his wife, on Lord Northampton's
summons, called together the men he had engaged from all parts,
and the troop would have been ready in three days. Is not only
left deluded himself, after all his charge in procuring men, horses,
&c., but is accountable to those who had strained themselves to be
ready to follow him. Is sure the King will not suffer so great an
intrenching on his honour in the face of his country. Begs advice
will come up for directions, as soon as he can ride. [2 pages.] |
July 10. Portsmouth. |
57. Robt. Mills to Williamson. Attack on the French East India
prize by the Orange; they could not take it, but were forced to
sink it; it is reported worth 1,500,000l. |
July 10. |
58. Robt. Mills to James Hickes. To the same effect. |
July 10. |
59. Sir Thos. Clarges to Williamson. Asks whether the Earl of
Peterborough's troop is to be mustered at Wellingborough or
Northampton on the 12th. The Earl of Northampton's troop
mustered on the 6th complete. |
July 10. [Suffolk.] |
60. W. Battie (?) to Edw. Colman, Furnival's Inn, London. The
Dutch fleet seemed to be making for their own coast but has
returned; a squadron of 17 is in the Gunfleet; there is great longing for the English fleet to come down. The Rupert, Rear-admiral
of the White, waits for it at Harwich. A Dutch hoy has landed
105 English prisoners taken in the last engagement, but chiefly
old men and boys. The hoy was ordered for the Thames, and
pretends to have landed there from fear, mistaking the Dutch
fleet for the English, but thinks it was to land in some safe corner
a Mr. Hill, brought over to do the Dutch intelligence from England;
he was a fellow of Magdalen College, Cambridge, was turned out
for non-subscription in 1662, has since been in Holland, and is to
marry a merchant's daughter with 2,500l. The Earl of Suffolk
and deputy lieutenants have been at the coast to see the Dutch
fleet; has promised to send them word of its motions and to look
after seamen, the constables being tardy in their office. Told
Mr. Hill that he had come for no good out of Holland, took all
his papers in charge, and sent him and them to the lord lieutenant
Thinks him as dangerous a person as could have been sent, and had.
he slipped away from the landing place, he could easily have been
entertained among the Nonconformists; the Mackerel hoy in
which he came should be narrowly searched for papers; he has
goods on board her; 20 horses are drawn out of every troop there
to go to the Isle of Wight. Wants London news. Asks if
Massey is to be general of the auxiliaries. The sickness has
broken out at Woodbridge. The prisoners say the whole strength
of Holland is out, and no reserves left behind. [2 pages.]
Encloses, |
60. i. N. Arnold to Rev. Joseph Hill, M.A., B.D. In addition
to the charge he has given him about the purchase of
books, begs him to procure if possible the liberation
of Peter Oxerne, of Franeker, a minister, who is detained in Chelsea College; this would oblige the whole
church of Friezland; if this fail, other ways must
be tried, as he is detained against the law of nations.
Asks him to speak to Sopingius, who says he does not
possess certain manuscripts. [Latin.]
Franeker, May 31, 1665. |
60. ii. C. T. to Jos. Hill, Leyden. Understands the Dutch
bravadoes; they have some ships and men to show as a
pretence of victory, though there is more pretence to make
them out to be beaten. The English lost 11 or 12 ships,
and others damaged in the rigging. The loss of Sir
Chris. Myngs is great. The report of Sir Wm. Berkeley's
courage is very acceptable, his father and friends being
extremely troubled with a report of his cowardice. Asks
further news of his department. Private affairs.
London, June 15, 1666. |
60. iii. N. Arnold to Rev. Joseph Hill, Leyden. Hopes that
victory may open a way to peace; there are there 500
captives. Has lent English books to one of them, who is
a reader. One, a captain, has died of his wounds, and
been honourably buried. Particulars relative to the
MSS. of the elder Sopingius. Harenxma, a great bookworm in Friezland, wishes to purchase them.
Franeker, June 10, 1666 |
60. iv. Thos. Mayden to Rev. Jos. Hill, Leyden. The French
have surprised the English at St. Christopher's, and put
them all to the sword. The English do not confess so
great a loss as reported last engagement. The Holland
fleet is out 70 strong. Dr. Sladius sends him a work,
"De nutritione fœtus." Mr. Price's family are going to
England in a vessel that has a French pass, takes over
120 English prisoners, and will bring back Dutch
prisoners. Private affairs. Amsterdam, June 28/July 8, 1666 |
60. v. Notes from two books. |
60. vi. Request from Ri. Mayden to his brother to introduce
Mr. Hill to sister and cousins Hovener, to whom he will
soon be more nearly allied. |
60. vii. Ri Mayden to Peter Herringhooke, merchant of London.
Recommends Joseph Hill, who wishes to marry the
writer's daughter Elizabeth, and has come over to settle his
estate in England. Hopes God will turn the resolutions of
war into counsels of peace. Amsterdam, July3/13, 1666. |
60. viii. M. N. to Mr. Alefounder, at Dedham. Requests him to
favour his friend and brother, Mr. Hill, who may land
at Harwich, and has lived two years with him, with a
night's lodging, and sale of a horse to take him to London,
and to give him information what places to lodge in to
avoid infection. |
July 10. The Seven Provinces, before the Foreland. |
61. S. Raven to Rob. Washington. Requests him to convey the
enclosed; it is necessary that friends should unite, for a weak party
endeavour other things. Also, |
S. Raven to Col. Elatson. Is detained by contrary winds; the
old party are playing their old tricks to divide them; hopes the
friends will not be wanting to themselves; much is done to prepare
things, and much won on the Admiral. Also, |
S. Raven to [his wife]. Being detained by contrary winds, fears
they will not arrive where they would be till Monday. [Copies,
1½
pages.] |
July 10. |
Commissions for John Edrington to be Cornet, and Henry Browne
Quartermaster to Sir Simon Fanshaw. [Ent. Book 20, p. 124.] |
July 10. |
Commission for Adrian Scrope to be Quartermaster to Sir Adrian
Scrope's troop, in the Earl of Cleveland's regiment. [Ent. Book 20.
p. 143.] |
July 10. |
Commission for Henry Browne to be Quartermaster to Sir Simon
Fanshaw. Minute. [Ent. Book 20, p. 131 a.] |
July 10. |
Commissions for Capt. Rich. Taylor to be Lieutenant, and Wm.
Batts to be Quartermaster to Sir W. Haywood. Minute. [Ent.
Book 20, p. 131 a.] |
July 10. |
Commissions for Thos. Lord Culpeper to raise and arm a company
of foot for service in the Isle of Wight, and to S. Barrett to be
Lieutenant thereof. Minute. [Ent Book 20, p. 139.] |
July 10. |
Commission for — Ball to be Ensign to Col. Sydney's own
company. Minute. [Ent. Book 20, p. 140.] |
July 10. |
Pass for the ship St. Anthony of Padua, laden with currants
at Zante for John and Antonio Benzoni, to go to Ostend and
return. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 213.] |
July 10. |
Warrant to the Commissioners of Prizes to discharge the ship
Lucretia, belonging to the subjects of the King of Spain, notwithstanding its containing wool consigned for Amsterdam, and their
wish for more positive proof of the property of the claimants. [Ent.
Book 23, p. 215.] |
July 10. |
Pass for Cuthbert Horsley, Dominick Sheldon, &c., to Flanders.
Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 216.] |
July 10. |
Warrant to pay to the Cofferer of the Household 3s. 4d. daily, to
be by him paid to Jeremy Gohory, groom of the Queen Consort, in
lieu of board wages, from 13th June 1663. [Docquet.] |
July 10. |
The King to the Governor of Guernsey. He is to cause Jean
François de Briselone, Sieur de Vancourt, commander of the island
of Chouzey on the coast of Normandy, and the master of the ship
seized with him, to be hanged as spies, for engaging in a treacherous
design to effect the escape of John Lambert, prisoner there, and to
foment a rebellion in the kingdom. He is henceforth to keep
Lambert close prisoner, as he will answer at his utmost peril; and in
case of invasion —. [Ent. Book 17, p. 194; a clause omitted.] |
July 10. |
62. Sir W. Coventry to Williamson. His Royal Highness wants
commissions for Grove to be lieutenant, and Piercy Kirk ensign of
Capt. Bromley's company. |
July 10. |
63. C. Sanderson to Williamson. A person told [the intelligencer]
that he heard from Holland that they only lost 600 men and four
ships; but the English 8,000 prisoners, besides slain and wounded, and
28 ships. They (the malcontents), say that God Almighty, the Dutch,
the French, and the Dane, are working for their deliverance. Has
laid snares further to entoil the person. Another says there is an
attempt to bring in popery; that the English cannot defend themselves in the Thames; that there will be strange news ere long, and
the work will shortly be done. Has sent [the intelligencer] about
amongst them to propound how they must do for horses and arms,
so as to see if they have any ready; when the persons are to be
secured, the list which he sent should be given to the Bishop
[of Durham] with [the intelligencer's] name amongst them.
Thinks it more politic to let them alone, unless they make some
preparation. Wishes 20l. sent to his son Philip. |
July 11. West Cowes. |
64. John Lysle to Williamson. Particulars of three French
prizes brought in by the Paradox. The Diana of Wismar was
taken by the Hawk. Her master says that 15 days ago, 20 French
ships of war sailed from St. Martin's with the Queen of Portugal,
and that a general embargo has been laid on salt. There is a great
rumour that the French are preparing to invade the Isle of Wight;
the inhabitants are much dejected, because not supplied, and in a
posture of defence. Some have shipped their goods, to send them
away if need be. Is sorry that any foreigners coming in should
take cognizance of their fears. [2 pages.] |
July 11. Lyme. |
65. Anth. Thorold to Williamson. The health of the place is
good, and the watch well maintained. Wants a commission for a
privateer from that place. |
July 11. Norwich. |
66. Robt. Scrivener to [Williamson]. The city looks sadly;
most of the chief shopkeepers in the market are gone, and the shops
shut up. Thinks in ten days a fourth of the city will be gone
The poor murmur much, and say they will live in better houses than
now they do. Hopes they will be prevented. |
July 11. Norwich. |
67. [Thos. Corie] to Williamson. His letters need not be feared,
there being no infected houses in his parish. Their condition is very
sad; many of the aldermen have left, so that without some commands
to require their stay, the government cannot be kept up. Asks
whether they might petition for the King's letters to the Bishop of
London for a collection, as in three or four weeks there will be
thousands of people turned out of work, and the country will not
give them entertainment in harvest, for fear of danger. |
July 11. Hull. |
68. Luke Whittington to James Hickes. Has no news. Asks
how Mr. Gibson and Mr. Marson's accounts agree. |
July 11. Frodsham. |
69. Joseph White to James Hickes. Thanks for his correspondence. Sends an important letter for delivery. |
July 11. Weymouth. |
70. John Pocock to James Hickes. The French East India
prize, taken by the Orange, was called "La Vierge de bon Port,"
300 tons, and 20 guns; the cargo was esteemed worth 50,000l.;
she was lost through neglect and love of plunder. |
July 11. Naworth. |
71. Earl of Carlisle to Williamson. While the war continues, the
packet must come to Carlisle by Newcastle, or he will lose his'
correspondence with Scotland or the neighbouring counties on the
East sea, where the danger is. Altered the post which used to come
that way, for convenience of his neighbours of Westmoreland, but
now the public good requires it to be settled by Newcastle. |
July 11. Royal Charles, Buoy of the Nore. |
72. Ja. Hayes to Williamson. The fleet increases daily; 17 fireships are squadroned, and more are fitting; they hope soon to be
abroad, and as able as they are willing for an encounter. Two
nimble sailers have been sent to make discovery of the enemy.
Seamen come in daily, so that they will soon be manned above
their former complements, which is necessary when the enemy has so
many soldiers on board. |
July 11. Wednesday noon, Royal Charles. |
73. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. Two vessels have
brought in from Harwich 96 seamen, who were prisoners in Holland,
taken the last engagement, and returned on exchange, but they
were all taken out of hospitals, and are weak, old, or children, 20
being under 12 years of age; hopes that able seamen will not be
released in exchange. The Dutch offered all their prisoners 40
guilders a man and great advance of wages if they would serve
them, and when they would not, threatened to throw them overboard, used them very hardly, and put them into irons; many did
enter the service, especially Scotchmen. A Swedish man-of-war
passing for Gottenburg, with two merchant ships, the generals
sent for the captain on board, and finding he had no pass from the
King or Duke, would not let him go on, as he must have gone
through the Dutch fleet, and they would have learned all our condition from him; he pleaded having only 12 days' provisions, but
being a man of experience, knew that such stops were usual, and
was content to go back to Gravesend to victual. The river ships
are much wanted. Men come in daily; 55 have arrived from the
Isle of Thanet, and as many more are expected thence to-morrow.
Sir Edw. Brett and the militia colonel are very industrious about
it. Everybody grows daily confident of a victory, which is no
small matter towards it, and if it be a thorough one, thinks it will
not be hard to take the Dutch quite from the French, considering
how they are left alone by them, contrary to their promises. The
scouts have still the top-gallant sails flying, which is the sign of
seeing the enemy. The fisher boat says that the pleasure boats are
ordered to be ready, which is a sign as if the King intended to see
his fleet before it went out. His lordship's page is on board with
them, preferring to stay, though Sir Edw. Spragg offered him the
best accommodation in his ship. [4 pages.] |
July 11. Falmouth. |
74. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Lord Arundel came to the
castle yesterday, and he and Sir Peter Killigrew are gone to Truro,
and thence to Bodmin, to meet the Earl of Bath and settle the
county militia, three companies of which, it is reported, are to go
for Scilly. Capt. Pendarvis' company is staying at Pendennis
Castle. |
July 11. Falmouth. |
75. Thos. Holden to Williamson. To the same effect as the
preceding, and as his letter to Hickes of July 8. |
July 11. Aldborough. 6 P.M. |
76. Rich. Browne to Williamson. There are three Dutch menof war and a French sloop off the coast; five leagues south-east
are 80 Dutch vessels; they gather closer than before, which gives
hope that the English fleet is ready. The town might easily be
plundered and fired, for there are only 35 ill-disciplined men of the
trained band, and 20 guns, but not men enough to manage them;
four runaway seamen were by great care pressed and sent on board
the Revenge, but they have all run away again; 40 able seamen
lie hid in houses in the town, and Sam. Groome, the bailiff, keeps
one who was pressed. Unless strict course be taken, few will stay. |
July 11. Maidenhead. |
77 Charles Duke of Richmond and Lenox to Williamson.
Thanks for his letter and paper. Proffers of service. |
July 11. |
Lists of Dutch prisoners released from several places, and passports given them, all without fees, viz. 12 on May 15; 16 on May 16;
1, May 23; 1, May 30; 17, June 2; 7, July 6; 10, July 11:—
most of them being delivered to Mr. Heinsius. [Ent. Book 14,
pp. 271–276.] |
July 11. |
Warrant to Sir Edward Griffin to pay to George Tomlins 4l., for
embellishing and writing four skins of vellum with the King's arms,
ornaments, pictures, &c., sent to the Emperor of Morocco, and other
foreign princes. [Ent. Book 23, p. 37.] |
July 11. Pendennis. |
78. Fras. Bellott to Williamson. Lord Arundel, the governor,
has been to the castle, according to the King's commands, and has
ordered provision for the garrison. He has gone to Truro, to meet
the deputy lieutenants and justices. The country is in a good posture of defence, and they profess themselves ready to serve, which
both horse and foot proved in a false alarm. |
July 11. Bristol. |
79. John Knight, jun., to the Navy Comrs. Has shipped 21
masts on board the Friezland, and supplied one to the St. Patrick,
which is forced to wait the arrival of the Virginia and West Indian
ships, to supply her with men; promises a speedy account of the
500l. already paid; must soon draw a still larger sum. [Adm.
Paper.] |
July 12. Portsmouth Dockyard. |
80. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Will speak with Sir
Philip Honeywood about the timber; regrets the great want of
anchors, as there will be much difficulty in procuring a supply.
Tymbrell, the yard smith, having lost a child of the plague, has
discharged several men. Will go or send to Southampton to see
what can be done there, and will furnish 30 good anchors from the
stores if required. [Adm. Paper, 1¼
pages.] |
July 12. |
81. Thos. Lewis to the Navy Comrs. The undermentioned
seven hoys laden with beer have been sent back from the fleet; has
disposed of some to ships now in the river; asks what is to be done
with the remainder, which has lain a month ready for delivery, as
by the extreme heat of the sun, it is "becoming hard and somewhat
eager." Wants orders about any other provisions ordered back from
the fleet for want of stowage. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 12. Plymouth. |
82. John Clarke to James Hickes. There have three London
vessels arrived from Malaga. They left Tangiers 29 days ago. No
news of De Beaufort at Lisbon since. A French man-of-war came
up with those off Scilly, but dared not meddle with them. |
July ? |
83. Petition of John Joplin to Lord Arlington, for an order to
Sir Jordan Crosland, governor of Scarborough Castle, to release
him on bail, after so many years' causeless imprisonment. Is unable
longer to undergo the charges of residing there in town. |
July 12. Scarborough. |
84. Sir Jordan Crosland to Williamson. All are busy in putting
themselves in the best posture. Raised the full number of seamen,
and Capt. Peach has taken them away. Wants the order for John
Joplin's release; he is as fit a man as any in England for Lord
Arlington's use. Is victualling the garrison for two months. |
July 12. |
85. Thos. Chapell to James Fitton, Chester. The godly need
much patience, lest they faint in these days of trouble, with greater
troubles yet in prospect. Religious advice. The King of the Jews,
who was reported to be destroyed, is still living; the Grand
Seignior having to go to Adrianople, to prepare against the Tartars,
has sent him to a castle at Gallipoli, and allows him 50 aspers a
day, the same as he does to his chiefest commanders. This removal
is to avoid any tumults, Constantinople being full of strangers from
all parts, who flocked to see and speak with him. He has assured
the Jews that the redemption of Israel is at hand, as will be proclaimed to the world by great miracles, when the prophet Nathan
arrives. At Constantinople, he was in a palace of the Grand
Seignior, with rabbis and teachers, the books of the law, and the
free exercise of ceremonies, and Jews might freely visit him. He
had leave to go abroad in public, but refused it till the time came
for him to manifest himself. A pillar of fire, with several stars, was
seen hovering over the place where he was. He appeared in the
[Grand] Turk's bedchamber, and several men sent by the Vizier to
strangle him fell down dead in his presence. The pestilence has
accomplished little humiliation or reformation, and now the sword
threatens. If the fleet miscarry next engagement, great troubles
are feared. Endorsed "Phanatique's letter." [3 pages.] |
July 12. St. James's. |
86. Sir Wm. Coventry to Lord Arlington. Suggests that it
might be well to stop all boats going from Dover, packet boats as
well as others, till the fleet be abroad. |
July 12. Royal Charles. |
87. Duke of Albemarle to Lord Arlington. Intercedes in behalf
of John Gryce, late prisoner in the Tower, and one of the chief
witnesses against the fanatics who were hanged at London. The
King promised him 10s. a week for life; he also promised 20s.
weekly to one Easton, the chief intelligencer and discoverer of the
whole design. Unless such people be well rewarded, good intelligence will fail hereafter. Encloses, |
87. i. John Gryce to Sir Phil. Howard, on board the General's
ship. Begs him to remind the General of his business.
Is a laughing stock to all, having done for the King
what no other could or would, and being now so much
slighted that he has not a meal's meat nor a penny.
Wants to be in a condition to do His Majesty more
service, for the old enemies are as busy as ever; with
liberty to dissemble, could discover the chiefest of them,
but has neither money nor clothes. If the General will not
interfere for him, begs to know it, that he may leave London, for fear of being imprisoned for debt. They will
then have no witness against Capt. Pride. Was promised a gratuity and a settled maintenance. [3 pages.] |
London, July 9, 1666. |
87. ii. Petition of John Gryce, late prisoner in the Tower, to the
Duke of Albemarle. Declared the whole plot in open
court. Gave evidence against the eight traitors that were
executed, and could find out the chief of the King's
enemies, if put into a condition to go about town.
Reminds him that he first sent to his Grace to reveal
the plot, and begs him to write to the King to put him
in a condition for service. |
July 12. Southwold. |
88. Willm. Waynfleet to Williamson. A vessel or two have been
seen far off at sea; there is a company of foot in the town. |
July 12. Truro. |
89. Hugh Acland to Williamson. All is quiet. The drums were
beating yesterday for volunteers to go to the Scilly Isles. |
July 12. Swansea. |
90. Joh. Man to James Hickes. Thanks for Gazettes and
written intelligence, and for the readiness to prevent miscarriage of
letters. Will write each post. Encloses, |
90. i. Jon. Man to Williamson. The deputy lieutenants are
very active to fit the country to oppose the enemy. A
company of foot is to be raised about Swansea, and a
troop of gentlemen volunteers in Glamorganshire; more
will offer than can be admitted, the country being universally ready to serve the King. A passenger arrived there
who was taken sailing from Wexford to Wales by a
French galliot, which he fears will snap up other vessels
coming. Swansea, July 12, 1666. |
July 12. Whitby. |
91. Thos. Waade to Williamson. A French or Dutch man-ofwar with English colours came close by Roch Head, and put the
town in alarm, for fear of three of their ships at anchor close to the
harbour; but he edged off, discouraged by the multitude of spectators
on the cliffs, the newly planted guns, or the trained-band soldiers,
who were ready in a trice to venture their lives for defence of the
port; he is now three leagues off; two of the Whitby ships got in
there, and the other to Scarborough Road. The guns given to the
port by the King will secure it from vessels under 20 guns. The
beacons are watched day and night, and next week a survey will be
taken of all the arms in the North Riding except those of the trained
bands, and an account given to the Lord Lieutenant that they may
be ready on occasion. Two [deputy] lieutenants are to take weekly
duty in viewing the North Riding, and putting it in a posture of
defence; the people are vehemently exasperated against the French
barbarism exercised upon the poor English in St. Christopher's
Island. [1¼
pages.] |
July 12. Portsmouth. |
92. Robt. Mills to Williamson. The Paradox has come into the
bay, having left at Cowes a prize which she took. |
July 12. Harwich. |
93. Fras. Newby to James Hickes. The Dutch have returned to
their old station; their long waiting deserves requital from the
English fleet. |
July 12. |
94. Robt. Hammond to Monsieur Rosier. Finding him seldom
at home, begs him to leave the paper with his landlord, sealed
and directed to the writer. Endorsed [by Williamson] "Rosia; to
be examined upon who Hammond is, what their business." |
July 12. |
95. Petition of Richard Bower, of Great Yarmouth, to the Commissioners of Prizes, to be dispatched home, being detained although
he proved that he had done the service for which Mr. Warcup claimed
credit; will be careful in future not to involve himself in like
trouble, leaving the business to those who make their private pockets
the King's privy purse. |
July 12. |
Recommendation to the Duke of York of the request of George
Fanshaw and Peter Doleman for a pass for a dogger boat to fish for
their families support. Minute. [Ent. Book 18, p. 213.] |
July 12. Whitehall. |
Reference to the Prize Comrs. on the petition of Warham Jemmet
for a warrant for some goods in a Hamburg ship, taken by a
privateer of Sir A. Slingsby's, for whom he was bail. [Ent. Book 18,
p. 213.] |
July 12. |
96. Sir W. Coventry to Williamson. The Duke of York wants
commissions for — Wise to be lieutenant, and John Lee ensign
to Capt. Molroyen, in the Duke's regiment. |
July 12. |
97. Sir Wm. Coventry to Williamson. The Duke of York wants
commissions for [Wm.] Morice to be lieutenant, and Rich. Sheldon
ensign, of Capt. Cartwright's company in his regiment. |
July 12. |
98. Sir Adrian Scrope to Williamson. His troop, as good an
one as ever raised, was mustered yesterday at Ware, but the commissary cannot close the rolls till all the commissions are given out
and transcribed into the office; that for his kinsman, Adrian Scrope,
as quartermaster, is wanting; begs it may be expedited; the troop
is about marching, and will be wanted at the quarters. |
July 12. Thursday noon, Royal Charles. |
99. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. Has given his advices
to the Prince and Duke. The Warspite and Cambridge have come
in, but the latter is without her guns, and if the weather prove
blowing, will take longer to fit there than in the river. The wind
is still English, and the Dutch in the same station. |
July 13. Friday noon, Royal Charles. |
100. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. The Greenwich has
arrived; the London and the Cambridge's guns are expected every
tide. The whole fleet is glad of these additions; they will be
manned from a few of the worst ships, which may well enough be
left at home. Confidence increases; the seamen last night were
afraid, from the Dutch fleet being under sail and standing seaward,
that they would try to avoid fighting, which is probable enough it
they could get in their East India ships and other merchant ships
coming round Scotland. The new pressed men begin to fall sick,
30 since yesterday. Several set ashore by the Rupert at Harwich
have died since of the plague, but that clears the ship well enough
of it. The Gottenburg fleet of 20 sail has come down, and complain that some captains of frigates have pressed their men, notwithstanding their protections, but they will be released, for these
ships are all going on the King's service for masts, which is of great
concern. Thinks they should not venture out till after the engagement. [2 pages.] |
July 13. Lynn. |
101. Edw. Bodham to Williamson. The 70 impressed seamen,
stout able men, have marched under conduct of Major Anguish for
Yarmouth, with a waggon for their baggage, and are ready and
cheerful to fight the Hollanders. The Major, to encourage them,
went a mile out of town with them, and at parting gave them 20s.
to drink. A Dutch galley of six guns is cruising between Norfolk
and Lincolnshire. |
July 13. Minehead. |
102. John Maurice to James Hickes. People wonder at the stay
of the Virginia ships in Ireland; some say the southerly winds
detain them, some that they wait a convoy, some that the
seamen are afraid to come home, lest they should be pressed. The
Harp that convoyed the Cowes ships has been in the harbour a
fortnight, with 50 lusty fellows on board; wishes these men all on
board the fleet. The time for bringing bullocks over is past, and
consequently the chief trade with Ireland for the season. It is said
that Lord John Butler is coming to go to Ireland in the Harp.
The people want to be under martial discipline for their defence
against pickeroons. It is a comfort to see the courage and resolution
of the people against the French and Dutch. |
July 13. Plymouth. |
103. John Clarke to James Hickes. The Guinea fleet is still at
Torbay. Sir Fras. Godolphin has sent three or four companies to
reinforce the garrison of Scilly. |
July 13. Plymouth. |
104. John Clarke to Williamson. To the same effect as the
preceding and his letter to Hickes of July 12. |
July 13. Canterbury. |
105. J. Carlisle to Williamson. Lord Middleton has sent MajorGeneral Desborough to Dover Castle. He landed in Thanet, but
it is very dubious whether he intended to head a party. There are
5,000 soldiers in the town, and proportionably on the coasts. Deal
is in sad condition, but Dover pretty well. |
July 13. 5 a.m. Margate. |
106. John Smith to Williamson. The Little Mary has arrived
from Ostend, with a Dutch tender, belonging to John Evertsen,
admiral of Zealand, carrying anchors, cables, &c., for their fleet, which
she took near Dunkirk. Six Dutch vessels off Margate Road perceived and made to her to retake the prize, but she ran it aground
near Broadstairs pier. They fired several shots at the people ashore
and at the prize, but could not retake it, the place being well
guarded with horses and men. |
July 13. |
The King to the Duke of York. He is to frame, with the assistance of officers and others as he thinks fit, articles of war proper for
the government of the forces raised for defence of the kingdom.
[Ent. Book 17, p. 195.] |
[July 13.] |
107. Draft of the above. |
July 13. |
Warrant for a grant to Thos. Whitgrave of a pension of 200l. a
year, to be received from cos. Oxford and Berks, in reward of his
service in endeavouring to save the King from the violence of his
enemies after his escape from Worcester. [Ent. Book 23, p. 213.] |
July. |
Minute of the above, dated July 6. [Ent. Book 23, p. 212.] |
July 13. |
Privy seal for 300l. to Sir Edward Savage, without account.
Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 213.] |
July 13. |
Warrant for a grant to Nicholas Oudart of the office of Latin
Secretary, void by death of Sir Rich. Fanshaw, salary 80l. a year.
[Ent. Book 23, p. 213.] |
July 13. York. |
108. Jo. Mascall to Williamson. News (as already given) from
Newcastle and Whitby. The Duke of Buckingham is expected tonight from Lord Dunbar's in Holderness. |
July 13. Newcastle. |
109. Rich. Forster to Williamson. The London colliers and also
the two frigates with the pressed men from Berwick and Tynemouth have been out of harbour, but have returned. Wishes the
whole collier fleet, 300 ships now in port, were safely arrived, as
they would bring a good supply for the navy. The Earl of Carlisle
is not come; a person of honour is wanted to head the people.
They will be more forward for land than sea service. |
July 13. Norwich. |
110. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. Trade is very dead, and
most of the shops in the market place shut up; by next week there
will not be ten shops open. |
July 13. Plymouth. Fort. |
111. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Vessels from Tangiers report
the place in good condition, and at peace with the Moors, and the
Duke of Beaufort gone to Lisbon. The Victoria will ply in the
Sounding to meet the Barbadoes and Virginia ships coming from
Ireland, under convoy of the Mermaid and Dartmouth. Is sending
off the Portsmouth ketch with 50 men beside her own number. |
July 13. Plymouth. |
112. D. Grosse to Williamson. Three London merchant ships,
laden with wine and fruit, have arrived from Malaga. Some fifthrate frigates are much desired for the west. The capers are very
busy there, and take many small vessels without resistance. |
July 13. Liverpool. |
113. Jo. Waring to Thos. Bromhall, for Williamson. Ship owners
little regard passes, and the concern would wholly fail, but that
the writer sometimes lights on passengers on board. It is proved
that in Chester Water, most if not all take shipping without the least
examination. Wishes Mr. Morgan would move the farmers for the
writer's encouragement. The seamen apprehend danger, because of
reports of pickeroons in the Irish Channel, to prevent which ten sail
belonging to owners in the town have lately departed. Marked in
the margin, "A register book of certain rents and lands belonging
to the Crown sold by the Commissioners for sale of King and
Bishops' lands." |
July 13. Carlisle. |
114. Geo. Williamson to his brother Joseph Williamson. Lord
Carlisle and the justices have decided the difference. His lordship's
troop is to meet at Brampton, and brother Curson is mad to be
gone. Begs help for him, as he is fitted for that. |
July 13. |
115. Dr. G. Bates to Williamson. Has used the utmost care in
framing directions for him, but he must concur by observing his
diet, forbearing all varieties of meat, eating sparingly of it, and
taking no fruit, salads, sauces, nor wine, except mixed with water;
only a crust of bread or poached egg for supper. He must take the
pills, and also forbear late sitting up, and all anxiety as much as
he can. |
July 13. Pembroke. |
116. Fras. Malory to James Hickes. On the 11th, 25 or 26 ships,
supposed to be the Bristol Virginia fleet, passed the harbour. They
put the country into such a fright, not being in a posture of defence, that the people thought of running away. The Martin galley
still remains there; knows not on what account. |
July 13. |
117. Fras. Malory to Williamson. To the same effect. |
July 13. Aldborough. |
118. Rich. Browne to Williamson. There are three vessels in sight,
supposed to bring supplies from Holland. The Dutch fleet is in
the same place, but more numerous, and lying closer together.
Wishes there were a constant force to preserve the town and adjacent
parts, there being none to resist a landing but the inconsiderable
force that the town can raise. |
July 13. |
119. Sir Wm. Coventry to [Williamson]. The Duke of York
wants commissions for — Moyle as lieutenant and Fras. Vincent as
ensign to Capt. Silius Titus' company in his regiment. |
July 13. |
120. Sir W. Coventry to [Williamson]. The Duke of York has
changed his intention for Mr. Lee to be ensign to Capt. Molroyen,
and wishes Wm. Heydon to be ensign to Molroyen, and Mr. Lee
ensign to Capt. Blincow, in Portsmouth garrison; he also wishes
[Wm.] Morice to be lieutenant, and Edw. Harris ensign to Capt.
George Cartwright, and — Wrey lieutenant, and — Webb,
ensign, to Capt. Loe. |
July 13. |
121. Sir Wm. Coventry to Williamson. Has made a mistake;
Sheldon is to be ensign to Sir Edw. Carleton, and Harris to Cartwright, if it be not irrevocable. |
July 13. Yarmouth. |
122. Thos. Dunn to Sam. Pepys. There are only three anchorsmiths in the town, and they but "mean in estate," hàving little iron
by them, and few hammer-men at work, many being dismissed last
year owing to the deadness of trade; they may engage for 20 or 30
anchors in three months time, but cannot promise to effect anything
equal in workmanship to what is done in London; the Speedwell is
arrived, the other ships and ketches remain in harbour, not daring
to sail for Harwich on account of the enemy; 60 more able seamen
have come from Lynn; wishes they were with the generals. [Adm.
Paper.] |
July 13. Plymouth. |
123. John Lanyon to Sam. Pepys. Has written to Scilly and
Falmouth about anchors; can only procure 11 in Plymouth, and
those mostly small; is offered an excellent parcel of cordage and
Dutch yarn. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 13. Royal Charles, Buoy of the Nore. |
124. Jas. Hayes to Sam. Pepys. Wants tickets; promises an
account of the condition of provisions on board in a day or two.
[Adm: Paper.] |
July 14. Gravesend. |
125. Rich. Elkin, muster-master, to Sam. Pepys. Gave notice, as
ordered, to all the merchant ships bound for Gottenburg and others,
and all have set sail except the Angel and St. Jacob, their excuse
being a want of men to carry them to the fleet. [Adm. Paper. |
July 14. Ordnance Office. |
126. Edw. Sherburne to Sam. Pepys. One of the London's
carriages was, by mistake, left behind; it is shipped off this tide
with two others, written for by Sir Jer. Smyth. [Adm. Paper.] |
July 14 ? |
127. Petition of Willm. Miller to the King, for payment of 100l.
due to him by bond on Sir Wm. Macdowell late resident at the
Hague, and which Macdowell, by will, ordered to be paid from the
sums due to him by His Majesty. Has served in many weighty
affairs, and obtained no reply to former petitions. |
July 14. |
128. Petition of Willm. Miller, of Edinburgh, to the King, to
the same effect. Was twice tried for life for treason against the
usurpers, was deprived of two dwelling houses, and lost all he had
in forwarding the Restoration, &c. |
July 14. |
129. Petition of Col. Walter Whitford to the King, for the place
of Town Major of Hull; is disabled from field service by 18 wounds
received in the late King's wars. |
July 14. Cowes. |
130. Jo. Peronne to Sir Willm. Coventry. A Dutch caper took
in St. Martin's Road a great flyboat from New England, laden
with masts for the King's use. Could have surprised her if he had
had the means. The French fleet which conveys the Queen of
Portugal sailed from Challoboys Road, June 27, but put in again
for the wind, and sailed for Lisbon on the 30th. De Beaufort was
at Lisbon, and ordered not to stir till the French fleet arrived with
the Queen of Portugal; they were straitened for provisions, and the
fleet with the Queen could not have sailed but for 5,000 barrels of
beef from the Irish, who hold correspondence with the French king.
The coast is full of soldiers, horse and foot; there are 1,500 soldiers
in St. Martin's, they fearing lest the English should land; 400
soldiers are to go to St. Christopher's in their merchant ships; 500
flat-bottomed boats for landing men are building in Normandy; they
talk much of a landing in Ireland, and say that the French King
has sent into Scotland to persuade the people to rebellion; he has
given leave for all Scots to remain in France, though before he had
banished them as well as the English. [1½
pages.] |
July 14. Chester. |
131. John Baker to James Hickes. Delivered to the mayor a
petition from the young men and apprentices of the city, asking
leave to show themselves as ready to serve King and country as
those of London had done. The mayor has granted it, with thanks
for their forwardness; they have petitioned Lord Lieutenant the
Earl of Derby to grant them a commission and furnish arms, when
they will make a complete company, to be ready on command, as an
auxiliary of the city; doubts not that this will be granted. |
July 14. Chester Castle. |
132. Sir Geoffery Shakerley to Williamson. Requests assistance
about a letter sent to Lord Arlington. The Earl of Carbery has
met the Denbighshire and Flintshire militia, and there was a very
great appearance. Captain Spencer, of Broxton hundred, Cheshire,
has mustered 120 able men, and Capt. Butler, having raised his full
number, has left for Ireland. Is trying to make a correspondence
there. |
July 14. Bridgewater. |
133. W. Symons to James Hickes. Lieut.-Col. Powlett's company
has been mustered near the town, with great alacrity and readiness
to defend their country. |
July 14. Weymouth Port. |
134. John Pocock to James Hickes. Bernard Knaplock of Weymouth, now prisoner in Flushing gaol, writes that the prisoners
have not victuals to sustain nature; the wounded are very badly
looked after, and they are so crowded together this hot weather that
they have not room to stand, much less to sit, and must be stifled and
perish without speedy relief. Requests favour for Mr. Stone, the
postmaster, summoned upon false accusations about the miscarriage
of letters; the thing has been brewing four years; never heard any
complain but his accuser. |
July 14. Lyme. |
135. Anth. Thorold to Williamson. The place is in good health.
Some townsmen in the fleet express in their letters great earnestness
for an engagement. Is rejoiced to hear that the fleet is out, and is
to engage on Monday. |
July 14. Knighton. |
136. R. Dillington to Williamson. The whole militia in the Isle
[of Wight] has been mustered, and they express great readiness to
protect King and country; Lord Colepeper was present, with Sir Hen.
Jones and his troop, well equipped. In case of imminent danger,
hopes some horse and foot would be sent; the landing places for an
enemy are so many that the militia of the island would be insignificant to withstand them. The inhabitants, who bear arms at 6l.
and 8l. a year, would be burdened with continual duty and ruined,
unless eased by the soldiers, especially in harvest time. The Isle of
Wight men, said in the Gazette to have been thrown overboard by
the French off Cornwall, have never been heard of since. This
rigour has much animated the island against the French. |
July 14. West Cowes. |
137. John Lysle to Williamson. A general muster of the militia
has been held, 16 companies of 1,800 well-armed men, and 13 field
pieces. The people are in great joy on hearing that the King has
taken care to send some companies of foot, a troop of horse, a
surveyor, and an engineer into the island. The 46 French prisoners
are secured, but should be sent inland, lest they should run out in
rebellion, there being only eight musketeers at a time to guard
them. The Guilmet of Nantes is set at liberty by the prize office,
and will go to London. Begs influence with Lord Arlington in
reference to a favour which he has requested through Sir Thos.
Prestwich. [1¼
pages.] |
July 14. Hull. |
138. Luke Whittington to Williamson. Capt. Lightfoot of the
Speedwell put to sea on the 8th. The Duke and Duchess of
Buckingham arrived yesterday, she from Barton in Lincolnshire, he
from the Earl of Dunbar's in Holderness, with the Earls of Shrewsbury and Cardigan, Lord Brudenell, their ladies and other persons
of quality; they all dined at the governor's, were banquetted by the
mayor and aldermen, and went last night to Lord Dunbar's, except
the Duke and Duchess and their company; they remain at the
deputy governor's, who is treating them again to-day. |
July 14. Whitehall. |
Order for a warrant for felling 500 oaks in the New Forest for a
new ship now building at Portsmouth, the oaks to be chosen by a
purveyor for the navy and the officers of the forest. [Ent. Book 17,
p. 197.] |
July 14. Newcastle. |
139. Rich. Forster to Williamson. Sends a relation of the
capture of a Dutch privateer, from a kinsman who intended to go
aboard Sir Jeremy Smith as a volunteer. The people are much
encouraged; the land soldiers did good service in the engagement;
the prize is well stored with powder, shot, &c. The captains of
the Pembroke and Fountain refused orders to sail to the fleet.
Encloses, |
139. i. Ra. Forster to Rich. Forster. Particulars of the chase
and capture by the Pembroke of an Amsterdam privateer,
taken after a sharp dispute, with 64 men and 6 boys on
board. The Pembroke lost Collingwood, a stout fellow,
and three others. |
The Pembroke, at the Bar, July 14, 1666. |
July 14. Shrewsbury. |
140. Fras. Lord Newport, [Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire,] to
Williamson. Has received two letters together from the King,
ordering the payment of the militia tax to Sir Stephen Fox for the
three new regiments of horse, and alluding to former letters directing
the tax from several counties to be paid into Shrewsbury Castle.
No money but the money of that county was ever directed to be
paid to Shrewsbury, and it is said that those regiments are reduced
to troops. Asks whether the money is to be sent away, notwithstanding the regiments not being raised, and whether other counties
are ordered to send it away. The King ordered two of the three
months' tax to be sent to the Ordnance Comrs. to Leicester, and
the deputy lieutenants are troubled not to be permitted to keep the
last month's money in this dangerous time. Has sent 30 horse,
being a fourth of the militia horse, to Northampton, as ordered by
Council. Lord Carbery is settling his militia in Wales in good
time. |
July 14. Gainsborough. |
141. Willm. Hickman to Williamson. Lord Ogle held his first
rendezvous of his troop at Retford yesterday; above 100 came
to be listed, but he mustered only 73. He wishes to remove the
troop to Gainsborough, as being more convenient for quartering the
soldiers; is named himself as lieutenant, Cecil Cooper as cornet, and
Clifton Rhodes quartermaster. His lordship wants commissions
which should bear date some time before yesterday. |
July 14. |
142. Willm. Hickman to Williamson. Finds that the commissions
for the cornet and quartermaster have come, but not his own as
lieutenant. Begs dispatch. |
July 14. Harwich. |
143. [Silas Taylor] to Williamson. Is ashamed to say that
some deputy lieutenants' life guard gentlemen and volunteers went
on board a galliot hoy to see the Dutch fleet; that the galliot chased
a Dutch ketch, the guns flew, and at last they got to small shot, but
that these gallants did not approve of that, and by their importunities
forced the master to return. This should not be put in the Gazette.
The Dutch lie very quiet in the same place. |
July 14. Languard Point Fort. |
144. Lieut. Edw. Suckley to James Hickes. The Dutch are
exercising their men; the English fleet intends to be with them on
Monday or Tuesday. A great store of gentlemen went out to take
a view of the Dutch fleet; when 1½ leagues off, a small vessel was
sent to attack them; the gentlemen's hearts failed, and they desired
the master to make all the sail he could and get away; he refused,
saying he should be hanged when he came back; they mutinied
and threatened to cut his throat; they told him their lives were of
more value than his, two of them being knights, and promised him
a piece of plate if he would return, which they have performed, he
coming back after firing a few guns; had not their hearts failed,
the English vessel would have brought in the other. |
July 14. Bridlington. |
145. John Bower to James Hickes. The men whose landing he
named in his letter of the 9th instant proved to be merchants and
factors from beyond seas, and came from Ostend. The enemy
frequently appear in sight, and their landing is greatly feared, the
preparations to receive them being so bad. No English ships dare
venture out of harbour, but there is news of the fleet being at sea. |
July 14. Bridlington. |
146. John Bower to Williamson. To the same effect; with
thanks for the weekly papers. |
July 14. |
147. Sir W. Coventry to Williamson. The Duke of York wants
a commission for John Wise to be lieutenant to Capt. Molroyen's company. If Sheldon's commission under Capt. Cartwright cannot be
altered, Mr. Harris must have his for Sir Edw. Carleton. |
July 14. Sunderland. |
148. Ben. Francis to Williamson. Yesterday the Pembroke took
a Holland man-of-war on those coasts. Another of greater force is
discovered in the Tees, and a dispatch is sent to the captains of the
Pembroke and Fountain, before Tynemouth bar; hopes it will be
taken. |
July 14. Royal Charles. |
149. Sir Thos. Clifford to Williamson. The Dutch are in their
old station. The London is expected every tide. Supplies of men
come daily. |
July 14. Saturday noon, Royal Charles. |
150. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. The Dutch are in
their old station, 16 in the Gunfleet, 9 or 10 towards the North
Foreland, the rest by Longsand Head. Sir Thos. Allin went out to
see whether it would be possible with fire-ships to put them in
disorder to-night, but finds no good could be done, they having taken
their berths at such distances from each other, and so secured themselves with scouts. The easterly wind yesterday prevented the
London coming in, but is now north-west by north, and Sir
Jeremy Smith hopes to come in. There are daily additions of
men, and the captains speak more cheerfully. Thinks it will be a
week before they sail, though most expect it sooner. |