Charles II - volume 167: August 9-16, 1666

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1666-7. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1864.

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'Charles II - volume 167: August 9-16, 1666', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1666-7, (London, 1864) pp. 22-46. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1666-7/pp22-46 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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August 9-16, 1666

Aug. 9.
London.
1. "A true and perfect narrative of the great and signal success of a part of His Majesty's fleet under his Highness Prince Rupert and his Grace the Duke of Albemarle, burning 160 Dutch ships within the Vlie, as also the town of Brandaris upon the island of Schelling, by some commanded men under the conduct of Sir Robert Holmes, the 8 and 9 of this instant August." [5 pages, printed.]
[Aug. 9.] 2. Draft of part of the above. [In the handwriting of John Swaddell, Williamson's clerk.]
Aug. 9.
Dover.
3. Jo. Carlile to Williamson. There have 50 sail passed bound for London, chiefly conveying prisoners of war. The Dutch give out that they will be out with all speed. The master of the shallop has gone to the fleet to discover what he can, and will then desist till further orders. Thinks the bill of the first boat's crew too much.
Aug. 9.
Harwich.
4. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Thanks for his care about his commission for the Caribbees; perhaps it may be mislaid among Williamson's papers. Capt. Dorrell's foot company is marched with the Dutch prisoners to Sudbury, there to guard them; and Sir Chas. Littleton and Major Legg are marching to Sudbury from Landguard Fort to recruit, for most of their men went aboard the ships before last fight. The Gottenburg fleet of 20 vessels, under convoy of 4 ships, is sailing out. The Hamburg fleet will be sent shortly.
Aug. 9. 5. John Bettson to Lord Arlington. Finding their fidelity questioned and themselves slighted, told Mr. Freer; he came up from the country, and they resolved to do something that might prove them willing to serve to the hazard of their lives, so spying Capt. Hume looking at a play in Moorfields, desired two soldiers whom they saw to decoy him into an alehouse, wishing not to be seen themselves, and then went out, one for Capt. Thomas, the other for a justice, but meanwhile the soldiers had carried Hume in a coach to Whitehall. Begs consideration for their charges. Annexing,
5. i. Statement by Leonard Williams and John Bettson that Capt. Hume, collector in Scotland and a proclaimed person, has been chiefly in London, and in the time of the Yorkshire plot, kept a correspondency with the plotters, and had a horse, on which he intended to charge, kept at Hen. Blockett's in Durham bishopric. If he will confess, he can tell much of persons and designs.
Aug. ? 6. Examination of — Hume taken before Lord Arlington. Will not tell his name, but gave it to the captain of the guard as Hume, and as formerly a cornet in Scotland. Has lived four or five years in England, chiefly in London, but will not say where. Has written no letters to Scotland for a year. Was taken in Moorfields.
Aug. 9.
Bath.
7. Sir Chris. Gyse to Williamson. Thanks for his promise of weekly news; will do anything in his power to return the favour.
Aug. 9.
Aldborough.
8. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Particulars of ships. Sir Wm. Doyley and Serjeant Knight are gone to Ipswich; they beg removal of the Earl of Cleveland's troop, which takes up the quarters.
Aug. 9.
Chichester.
9. John Rowe to Thos. Bromhall, at Mr. Williamson's, Whitehall. The 46 ships that passed on Tuesday were chiefly going with provisions to the fleet, and some merchant-men with convoys.
Aug. 9.
Truro.
10. Hugh Acland to Williamson. Capt. Hooker, who commanded one of Lord Arundel's frigates supposed to be lost, has returned to Falmouth with three prizes. Two of the men taken by the French privateer, retaken by the Paradox, who were supposed to be murdered, have returned.
Aug. 9.
6 a.m., Swansea.
11. Jo. Man to Williamson. A privateer, supposed to be French, has taken three or four prizes off the Lizard; the Martin galley has come in, and will sail with 10 coal vessels to Milford, and thence take charge of other colliers ready to go about land, which is a great security for ships trading in coals.
Aug. 9.
The Breda, Rolling Grounds.
12. Capt. Thos. Page to the Navy Comrs. Sails to-morrow, with the Hamburg ships under his convoy, the galliot hoy, and other vessels conveying stores to the fleet; has no recruit of gunner's stores. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 9.
Portsmouth. Dockyard.
13. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The plague still decreases, but whole families are down with fever and ague; never heard such complaints of sickness as are now amongst men. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 9.
Victualling Office.
14. Denis Gauden to Sam Pepys. The vessels hired by him to fetch coals from Newcastle for brewing beer, after lying at the Nore and Harwich for two months waiting for convoy, now that an opportunity presents, are found to be disabled by having their men taken out of them by other ships; begs an order for restoring the men. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
14. i. List of the six hired colliers, with the names of five ships and commanders by whom their men were pressed away.
Aug. 9.
Edinburgh.
15. Capt. John Stracham and Patrick Lyell to the Navy Comrs. The prize arms and armour and spices have come in; John Brown, a privateer captain, wishes to buy the Dutch caper lately carried to Newcastle; desire a letter of credit to the Prize Comrs. to sell it, on good security for payment. Ready money is wanted; nothing can be bought from the second hand under 10 to 20 per cent. profit. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages.]
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
16. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. The Victory and Orange are in port, to repair the damage sustained by an engagement with two Dutch capers of 36 guns each; the Constant Warwick has brought in three prizes, laden with salt, brandy, and wine. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 10.
Newcastle.
17. Hum. Pibus to the Navy Comrs. Has taken the ship into custody; she is fit for a fire-ship. There are 300 laden colliers in harbour, waiting for convoy; two Dutch capers have been seen off Tynemouth Castle. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
17. i. Appraisement of the said ship by Geo. Swoddel and three others; total value, 626l. 5s. Aug. 9, 1666.
17. ii. Weight of the 20 guns borne upon the Flying Greyhound; total, 30,875 pounds, Holland weight. Newcastle, Aug. 10, 1666.
Aug. 10.
The Katherine, Buoy of the Nore.
18. Capt. Thos. Elliott to the Navy Comrs. Is only provisioned Up to the 18th inst.; begs orders for a further supply.
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
19. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Particulars of the skirmish between the Orange and Victory and two Dutch capers off the Lizard Point; both ships are much disabled, and report an equal damage to the enemy; has notice by the Constant Warwick that the sea is full of ships abroad. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 10. 20. Answer by Major Beckford, addressed to the Navy Comrs., to charges brought against him by Mr. Waith, concerning slopselling. Complains of Waith's detaining moneys collected for him, claiming per centage on 3,000l. due to him four years ago on the hearth-money, which will not be paid for three years, &c. [Adm. Paper.] Annexing,
20. i. Note of agreement on behalf of Thos. Beckford, to pay five per cent. upon all money due to him collected by Mr. Waith.
Aug. 10, 1666.
Aug. 10.
Whitehall.
21. Petition of John Sayers, His Majesty's master-cook, to the King, for allowance to him of 431l. 3s. 8d., set in account against him for provisions delivered from the larder to the privy kitchen, because they exceeded the proportions allowed two years afterwards, in November, 1662, when the regulation of the gross quantity of meat used by the French cooks was lessened, yet the surplus used in the two preceding years is deducted from his wages. With reference thereon to the Board of Greencloth, and their report, August 22, 1666, in favour of the petition.
Aug. 10. 22. Report by Sir John Wolstenholme and Sir John Shaw, Commissioners of Customs, on the petition of Ant. Phelpe, Sam. Swinock, and John Shorter, that the clause for suspension of the Act of Navigation, in reference to exports and imports to and from Norway and the Baltic, is expressly limited to naval commodities, as hemp, pitch, tar, masts, &c., and cannot be understood to extend to other goods, and those not the produce of the country, as is the case with the fish oil mentioned in the petition, which is certainly liable to payment of double alien duties, as it would have been if brought in by an Englishman. [1½ pages.]
Aug. 10. Warrant to pay to Willm. Gumbleton 360l. for two rings given by the King to the secretary of the French embassy and to the envoy of Savoy. [Docquet.]
Aug. 10.
Lichfield.
23. Shar. Talbot to James Hickes. Wishes his woman had better ordered the venison. Hears from Wiltshire that at Lady Hungerford's house, Cosham, near Chippenham, in a room that was made very clean and shut up at night, there was found in the morning a picture of Lady Hungerford, drawn in colours on the floor, to the life. She would not have it rubbed out, and seemed to slight it, but has since fallen into a hectic fever.
Aug. 10. 24. Jas. Halsall to George Porter, stone gallery, Whitehall. Mrs. Carter, the poor woman they met yesterday, formerly lived with Mrs. Abbott, and preserved in her house Tom Blague, Robin Killigrew, Sir Rob. Shirley, Mr. O'Neale, Nic. Armorer, Lord Rochester, himself, and many others of the King's servants; she was their confidant and very faithful, and is now ready to starve; it would be a charity to get her into a hospital, or find her some means to live.
Aug. 10.
Newcastle.
25. Rich. Forster to Williamson. The coal fleet is still in harbour, and the Dutch and French capers on the coast prevent the light ships coming; the collier fleet is well manned, and could spare 1,000 able seamen for the navy; two small vessels with French wines have come from Scotland.
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
26. John Clarke to James Hickes. Particulars of an encounter between the Victory and Orange frigates and two Dutch capers, which at length got away by night coming on. The Orange captain lost one of his hands, and had two men killed and six wounded; the Victory lost five men killed and six wounded.
Aug. 10. 27. John Clarke to Williamson. To the same effect as the preceding.
Aug. 10.
Plymouth.
28. D. G[rosse] to Williansom. Departure of the Barbadoes and Virginia fleet for London. Encounter of the Orange and Victory; both frigates are repairing and will soon be at sea. The Constant Warwick has brought in three prizes, which were all going about the north of Ireland; they report that Beaufort has not yet come from Lisbon to Rochelle.
Aug. 10.
Hull.
29. Luke Whittington to Williamson. The Blackamore has sailed for London with the victuals, and 14 or 15 ships, laden with lead, butter, and corn. Good convoys are much wanted for the Newcastle colliers and the Gottenburg and Hamburg fleets. The Dane is reported to have sent 12 men-of-war into the Elbe.
Aug. 10.
York.
30. John Bower to James Hickes. The coal fleet dares not leave Newcastle without convoy; the people are much revived with the late victory.
Aug. 10.
Custom House, Barnstaple.
31. Willm. Wakeman to James Hickes. Writes in Mr. Manaton's absence to say there is no news in those parts.
Aug. 10.
Plymouth Fort.
32. Ric. Blake to Williamson. Sir John Skelton being gone to Exeter assizes, writes to say that the plantation fleet has sailed for London, under convoy of the Patrick. Particulars of the encounter between the Victoria and Orange and two Dutch men-of-war; the latter got away, but lost many of their men, and their rigging was much rent. [Two pages.]
Aug. 10.
Yarmouth.
33. Rich. Bower to Williamson. There have 12 light colliers sailed for Newcastle. The Gottenburg fleet has passed by. The Truelove is in the roads, to convoy men from Boston to the fleet.
Aug. 10.
Lyme.
34. Anth. Thorold to James Hickes. A French shallop has taken another vessel, so that without some scour coasts, people will hardly be able to go from port to port, or a fishing.
Aug. 10.
Whitby.
35. Thos. Waade to Williamson. A Dutch caper has appeared in the offing. Ra. Jerron of that port was put on shore at Speeton Cliffs.
Aug. 10.
Milford.
36. Fras. Malory to Williamson. A Dutch caper lies on the coast of Ireland. Knowing all the ports in South Wales where the [post] stages lie, will advise him to able honest men.
Aug. 10.
Walmer.
37. Ri. Watts to [Williamson]. Particulars of vessels; two French sloops are between the Downs and Dover. The distemper much decreases in Deal; 200 have sores; before few had sores, but only swelling, and then they died.
Aug. 10. 38. Note of two vessels, Capt. John Thompson's and another at Redriff, ready to sail for the Barbadoes. Endorsed, "Sir J. Towers."
Aug. ? 39. Petition of Sir John Towers to the King, for an order to the High Sheriffs of London to deliver him to Capt. Thomson for transportation to the Barbadoes without security. Has been long in a loathsome prison, and is unable to obtain from Capt. Thomson, with whom he has agreed for his passage, any security for his safe transport. Annexing,
39. i. Sentence pronounced at the Old Bailey, April 25, on Sir John Towers, Bart., that he be hanged, drawn, and quartered, as guilty of high treason in forging the sign manual of the King; with note that he was respited and reprieved by the King's order. [Latin, copy.]
Aug. 10.
Whitehall.
Proclamation suspending the execution of a commission of reprisal granted to Sir Edw. Turner, George Carew, and others, May 19, 1665, against the subjects of the States General, to hold good till they had recovered from them 151,612l., on account of great misdemeanors committed in its execution by seizing the ships of the King's allies. [Printed. Proc. Coll., Charles II., p. 226.]
[Aug. 10.] 40. Draft of the above, noted as received and allowed Aug. 8, 1666. [2 pages.]
Aug. 10.
York.
41. Certificate by Ste. Clapham and five others that Adam Baynes, of Teeton, co. Northampton, with his wife and two servants, came a month ago amongst their relations there to receive rents, and settle his estates, and have not been observed to do anything prejudicial to the King's affairs.
Aug. 10.
Royal James, between the Vile and Texel.
42. Ja. Hayes to Williamson. The Admirals ordered Sir Rob. Holmes, with 900 seamen and soldiers, 300 of each squadron, and Sir Phil. Howard, with a company of volunteers, to attempt something on the Vlie and Schelling, and the 8th, at 8 a.m., the little fleet of eight small ships and five fire-ships stood towards the Vlie, the rest of the fleet standing a little out at sea, that these might better draw into their station. At 11 the fleet was birthed so as best to intercept the Dutch merchant ships; in the afternoon, a letter from Sir R. Holmes announced that he had discovered 40 sail riding at the Vlie, and asked directions, on which three more ships were sent him, lest any of those discovered should be men-of-war. In the evening the wind sprung up, and was feared to be unfavourable, but subsided. On the 9th, at noon, smoke was seen rising from several places in the Island of Vlie, and the 10th brought news that Sir Robert had burned in the enemy's harbour 160 outward bound valuable merchantmen and three men-of-war, and taken a little pleasure boat and eight guns, in four hours. The loss is computed at a million sterling, and will make great confusion when the people see themselves in the power of the English at their very doors. Sir Robert then landed his forces, and is burning the houses in Vlie and Schelling, as bonfires for his good success at sea. The Dutch fleet is expected out soon, to prevent further mischief. [3 pages.]
Aug. 10 ? 43. Note of a report by Capt. Kempthorne, of the Richmond, that the English fleet has fired 150 sail at the Texel, four of which were men-of-war, and four bound for Guinea; and has lost four fireships.
Aug. 10 ? 44. Odes by William Owen, on the burning of 150 ships of Belgium in the port of Schelling, some of which were about to go to Guinea. [Latin, 1½ pp.]
[Aug. 10.] 45. Description of the proceedings of the English fleet, under Prince Rupert and the Duke of Albemarle, from July 29, when they came in sight of Zealand. On August 7, an attack on the islands of Vlie and Schelling was resolved on, under Sir Robt. Holmes, with 9 vessels; details of their meeting with a Dutch fleet of 170 merchant ships, attacking and taking so many that only 8 or 9 escaped, and returning to the fleet August 10. [Draft, 2 pages.]
[Aug. 10.] 46. Similar account of the said expedition. Also detailing an attack made by Sir Robert Holmes on the Island of Schelling, where he set fire to the principal town. [Draft, 3 pages.]
[Aug. 10.] 47, 48. Fair copy of the above narrative. Two papers. [4½ pages.]
Aug. 11.
Edinburgh.
49. R. M[eine] to Williamson. A rich vessel laden with arms is brought as a prize into Leith. The Duke of Hamilton's troop rendezvous there, 100 well-appointed men, and the rest will do so shortly. The country is quiet, wishing for peace with the Dutch, but for war with France.
Aug. 11. 50. Petition of Rob. Aldus, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to Lord Arlington, for release; is confined at suit of Sir John Baber, for misdemeanors against his lordship and other honourable persons, committed in drink, and has lain long in prison.
Aug. 11. Warrant for the title of baronet to Peter Fortescue, of Wood, Devon. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 109.]
Aug. 11. Warrant for a lease to John Freeman and eight others of the excise of ale and beer, and other exciseable liquors in London and Westminster, Southwark, Middlesex, and Surrey, except in South Mims, and the King's house beyond the Royal Exchange, for two years, on rental of 140,000l. in monthly payments, allowing them the last quarter's rent in lieu of 35,000l. advanced by them, the interest of which is to be defalcated from this year; also appointing Rob. Huntingdon and three others commissioners or governors of the excise under the said farmers, but to have no benefit in the farm, the King promising not to release any of the duties, nor remit any fines, and to allow defalcations in the case of plague, or prohibition of export of beer, and also to renew their lease for six years more. The farmers are to have full power to levy the said excise, but are to submit their accounts to yearly audit, that the true value may be known, and to obey regulations made by the Lord Treasurer and Chancellor of the Exchequer, and especially allow the appointment of four gugers to gauge the beer, with other minor regulations; in default of observance of which the lease is to be seized into the King's hand. [Ent. Book 23, pp. 109–113.]
Aug. 11.
Whitehall.
Award in the differences between Brome Whorwood and his wife, that as in the former agreement the King did not forsee the charges of the sequestration that was laid on the estate, such as are paid by Mrs. Whorwood shall not be reimbursed to her, but the remainder shall be paid by Mr. Whorwood. [Ent. Book 14, p. 131.]
Aug. 11. 51. Certificate by Sir Fras. Cobb, [sheriff of Yorkshire], that Adam Baynes, of Teeton, co. Northampton, is now at York on his necessary business, and has always demeaned himself civilly, and done nothing prejudicial to government.
Aug. 11. 52. A. Desborough to Lord Arlington. Lord Craven and Sir Rich. Browne have informed her how much she and her husband are indebted for his lordship's influence in the Council, though a clause in the order for her husband's release will render him always a suspicious person, and liable to imprisonment, unless his own faithfulness may be taken warrant for his good behaviour, he having ventured his life in His Majesty's service. He has been prisoner three months in Pendennis Castle, in mistake for Major-General Desborough; he begs consideration, his case being different from traitors and suspicious persons that go under bail; his misfortunes have almost ruined him, being a younger brother, and his estate unable to bear the charges of imprisonment; begs employment for him; he must remain where he is, unless he can gain further liberty from Council.
Aug. 11.
West Cowes.
53. John Knight to Williamson. Three wine and brandy prizes from Bourdeaux are brought in.
Aug. 11.
Weymouth.
54. John Pocock to Williamson. Particulars of prizes taken; one French prize had two boxes of silver on board, and the captain was offered 1,500l. if he would have cleared her. The governor of Shoozey was hanged with his pilot, whom he endeavoured much to clear, but could not. On the 10th several broadsides were heard in Portland Road.
Aug. 11. 55. John Pocock to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect.
Aug. 11.
Aldborough.
56. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Some light colliers have passed by northwards, and some victuallers to the fleet. The Gottenburg and Hamburg fleets have sailed.
Aug. 11.
Harwich.
57. Silas Taylor to Williamson. The four or five ships that came to be refitted are ready to sail. Mr. Reid has not got the writer's commission; cannot write to Lord Ashley till it is found. Will send all intelligence possible. Has well stewarded the 3l. sent for the poor wounded seamen. Particulars of vessels which have gone to the fleet.
Aug. 11.
Chester.
58. M. A[nderton] to Williamson. Many gentry have been at the assizes and shown much alacrity to serve. Sir Job Charleton, chief justice, having finished there, is going to Sir Roger Mostyn's and thence to Flint assizes. Ireland is quiet, but great preparations are made in case a foreign enemy should land. The Duke of Ormond is ready to draw his army into camp; his vigilance befits so great a subject and gallant a general.
Aug. 11.
Chester.
59. Ma. Anderton to James Hickes. Knows not how Muddiman's news comes to him; does not correspond with him. With note from Hickes to [Williamson] that he informed Anderton that Muddiman had been dismissed by Williamson, who would withdraw from any one holding correspondence with him.
Aug. 11.
Boston.
60. Robt. Gray to James Hickes. Has no news this post.
Aug. 11.
Portsmouth.
61. Robt. Mills to James Hickes. The Paradox has brought in a French man-of-war, which would not yield till the captain, a Maltese, and 30 men were killed. She also brought in a Swede and an Ostender.
Aug. 11.
Lyme.
62. Anth. Thorold to James Hickes. A French shallop chased a Lyme boat off Torbay, and forced her ashore, but left on appearance of the country bands; account of other prizes. The Duke of Richmond, lord lieutenant, has been received by the militia, and treated at the mayor's, the great guns and some small shot being fired, and the mayor ordered that none of his retinue pay a penny in the town.
Aug. 11.
Southwold.
63. Wm. Waynflet to Williamson. A Flemish buss belonging to Burlington has been stranded, but the rigging saved. No enemies are seen. Serjeant Knight was very careful to see the wounded well dressed. Sir Wm. Doyley finds it better to hire a ketch to take those recovered back to the fleet, as they can thus take their clothes with them, and be put on board their own ships; it will take all those between Yarmouth and Harwich. Sends letters which the Dutch prisoners wish to have forwarded.
Aug. 11.
Newcastle.
64. Rich. Forster to Williamson. The colliers are so earnest to be gone, that they will hazard themselves without convoy if one do not come.
Aug. 11. 65. List of six ships at Newcastle, in the week ending Aug. 11.
Aug. 11.
Sunderland.
66. Ben. Francis to Williamson. No capers have been seen on those coasts, but many off Scarborough. A Bridlington coal vessel was twice chased, and forced to run upon a sand near Robin Hood's Bay, whence she got off next tide.
Aug. 11.
Bridgewater.
67. Wm. Symons to James Hickes. Nothing worth notice has occurred there.
Aug. 11.
Exeter.
68. Peter Crabb to Lord Arlington. The disaffected in the West are very busy, employing men and women to inform up and down that the Queen-Mother intends to bring in popery, and that the King countenances it. Widow Fasy, of Tiverton, whose son is a grand rogue, carries letters for them. Gils Sunter rides about with letters and news; Francis Drew, a deputy lieutenant and justice, is a great countenancer of them. Col. Bufet's brother says the good old cause will be the cause again before a year is over; also Major Sarell, Col. Bennet, Major Cobbren, and Major Blackmore say such things; some of these persons could raise 2,000 men in an hour or two. Wishes to be directed to some person of trust to whom he could say more, or will else write weekly.
Aug. 11.
Royal James.
69. Ja. Reade to Williamson. The fleet is in good health, and five leagues north of the Vlie. Particulars of the attack made by Sir Rob. Holmes and Sir Wm. Jennings, with 900 soldiers, on the islands of Vlie and Schelling; great care was taken to preserve women, children, and others who did not oppose; 160 rich merchant ships were burned, only 10 escaping, and all the large town of Schelling, but the Vlie reserved for another time. The English lost only 10 men and 8 hurt, but would not have been destroyed if the Dutch had had the courage of boys. [1½ pages.]
Aug. 11.
Ipswich.
70. Andrew Crawley to Sam. Pepys. Would have sent his accounts sooner, but was ordered to the Rolling Grounds, by Comr. Taylor, to survey the provisions on board the Elizabeth and Adventure frigates; 16 sail of Gottenburg merchantmen have been victualled lately; the Mary, Dunkirk, and Dover, will be dispatched in two days. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses.
70. i. Schedule by And. Crawley of letters of credit for victuals granted to five ships in July 1666.
70. ii. Account by And. Crawley and Thos. Clarke of cask, iron hoops, and biscuit bags returned from ships during the same month.
Aug. 11.
6 p.m., Upnor Castle.
71. Sir John Mennes to the Navy Comrs. Has paid the ropeyard, the sum amounting to 2,700l.; it will take at least 18,000l. to pay the whole yard; begs that the money may be sent by water, to avoid the danger of the infected places it must pass by land; the plague increases at Chatham; 30 died last week, and 100 houses are infected; no order is observed, but sick and well promiscuously visit each other; the third-rate ship is at a stand for want of materials: the yard being infected, proposes discharging some of the shipwrights rather than keep them idle; they cut good timber into chips, and women and children from Chatham fetch the chips, and spread the infection; the St. George sails to-morrow. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 11.
Portsmouth.
72. John Tippetts to the Navy Comrs. Desires a warant to Sir John Evelyn, Giles Eyre, and Edw. St. Barbe, justices, for the transportation of three elm trees bought in Wiltshire for the new ship. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 11.
Harwich.
73. Capt. Geo. Liddell to the Navy Comrs. Is in great forwardness for a voyage; must procure blocks from Ipswich; thinks his guns too weighty for the ship; can carry six months provisions for 60 men. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug.11.
Victualling Office.
74. Thos. Lewis to the Navy Comrs. Thos. Owld, late master or the Adam and Eve, is a creditor on his victualling account for 616 men a day, if his supernumeraries be allowed. [Adm. Paper.] Encloses,
74. i. Thos. Lewis to the Navy Comrs. The window of Thos. Owld, late master of the Adam and Eve, cast away in April, has brought a sea-book in order to the passing of her husband's accounts; the rest of his papers being lost, she has nothing to show for the discharge of cask and bags. Asks directions. Victualling Office, Aug. 9, 1666.
74. ii. Debtor and creditor account of victuals received by Thos. Owld on board the Adam and Eve.
Aug. 11.
Royal James.
75. Prince Rupert and the Duke of Albemarle to the King. Accounts of another happy success. Finding a descent might be made on Vlie and Schelling, sent Sir Robt. Holmes with 1,100 or 1,200 men, strengthened with some lesser frigates and fire-ships, hearing also that there were 50 merchantmen in the harbour of Vlie. Finding the ships to be 170, he resolved to attack them before attempting the land, which he did with such conduct and courage, that only six escaped the flames; they were ships of great burden, inward or outward bound. There were two men-of-war that made a defence, but were quickly boarded and burnt. The wind prevented an attack on the Vlie, but he set fire to the town of Schelling, burning at least 1,000 houses, and then returned to the fleet, the wind favouring the bringing down upon him of the enemy's force from Amsterdam. Capt. Lowris Van Heemskerk, a disobliged native of Holland, has been of great use, as without his guidance the attempt would hardly have been made. Recommend his wife and children who lie at Dover. The fleet is obliged to return to Sole Bay, for beer, water, and ammunition. Desire His Majesty's special commands for them to be hastened, that they may get out and have another battle with the war fleet before the summer ends. Refer for details to Sir Philip Howard, "who assisted in the whole action very handsomely in his own person." [3 pages.]
Aug. [12 ?]
Royal James.
76. Prince Rupert to Lord Arlington. The Dutch have received a greater blow than ever since the war. Others will tell what Sir Rob. Holmes did. The flames would be seen in half the States' dominions. The fleet is obliged to stand for Sole Bay, for want of water and other necessaries. Begs that supplies may be hastened down, and also Sir Thos. Clifford.
Aug. 12.
The Henry 17 leagues off the Vlie.
77. Sir Robt. Holmes to Lord [Arlington]. Particulars of his attack of the Dutch vessels in the Vlie Road; sent the fire-ships ahead, and they burned the men-of-war and the ships that defended the fleet; then sent in the vessels and burned all the fleet except nine; landed with 11 companies on the Schelling, and with little opposition, burned the town, which seemed very rich. Lost only 12 men, while the ships burned were 150 or 160. Sends a draft of the Schelling channel and harbour, and has got others of five or six Dutch harbours, which will be a great light in case of any future war. Begs performance of a promise made by him to a Danish vessel, laden with deals, of protection, if she would pilot him to where the Dutch fleet lay, finding the Dutch captain who undertook it not capable; the vessel and lading are only worth 600l., but contrary to promise, the deals are disposed of. Is too ill to write more. [2 pages.]
Aug. 12.
The Henry.
78. Sir Rob. Holmes to James Hickes. Particulars of the attack on the Dutch vessels, and of the burning of the chief town of Schelling; got off at high water, seeing 100 sail coming, and supposing it was to relieve the islands. Fears to be forced to go on shore, from the bruises in the last engagement, and the pains taken in this enterprise. [2 pages, copy.]
Aug. 12.
Dover.
79. Warham Jemmett, sen., to Williamson. Has only bad news. The sickness is very much increasing. There is a rumour that some from aboard the English fleet have landed in Holland and fired some country villages. Begs him to persuade Mr. Banckes to be content with the warrant he has for 100l., till the writer can get the other 100l. from Capt. Fooley who took the Milkmaid, and did all the mischief, and who is now in prison there. If not, will be forced to go to London, to use some other means.
Aug. 12.
Portsmouth Dockyard.
80. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Complains of letters arriving eight or ten days after date. Particulars of the Lord Treasurer's parcel of timber. The Warwick and Orange are both fully manned, but cannot get out of port through the contrary winds. The great alarm raised about the French landing in Sussex arose because 10 labourers and the captain of the Warwick, whom he sent to Axminster to press men from a privateer, coming ashore at night, to surprise them in their quarters, caused the alarm, when immediately the gates were shut up, and the inhabitants ran, some into one hole, some into another, crying out, "The French ! the French!" Particulars of hemp in store. Great scarcity of labourers in the ropeyard; all the workmen are in good health. Begs that Mr. Newland may receive the price of his ropes on delivery. [Adm. Paper, 3 pages.]
Aug. 12.
Portsmouth Dockyard.
81. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. For 100 dozen of oars it is demanded to put into the stores 40 doz. of handspikes; has no need of them. Capt. Rich. Teate in the Friezland is anchored off Spithead; proposes unlading his provisions to-morrow, and putting the masts on board; the New England masts will not find length in the ship; particulars of cordage, hemp, and yarn offered. The Paradox has arrived at Cowes, with a French privateer larger than herself; another small French vessel, taken by the Nonsuch ketch, lies also at Cowes. [Adm. Paper, 3 pages.]
Aug. 12.
The Friezland, Portsmouth.
82. Capt. Rich. Teate to the Navy Comrs. Has arrived at Spithead, laden with masts, anchors, ironwork, and other provisions asks where he shall unlade them. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 12.
Plymouth.
83. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. The Edward and Francis has arrived from "port to port" [Oporto ?] laden with oils and sugar. Beaufort's fleet is reported foul and leaky, and will have to return and tallow, leaving the securing of the Queen of Portugal, who is to take shipping at Rochelle. The Constant Warwick and Victory will shortly sail. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 12.
Walmer.
84. Ri. Watts to [Williamson]. Since the 8th instant, 80 sail have arrived, 40 of whom are light colliers and firemen, bound northward. Fears his letters miscarry, having received no reply for more than a month.
Aug. 12.
Berwick.
85. M. Scott to Williamson. A small Scotch privateer has brought into Leith a large vessel going to Denmark, laden with ammunition for 8,000 men. All is quiet, and the people joyful for the late victory.
Aug. 12.
Plymouth.
86. Jeffery Saffery to Abraham Holding and Company. Has safely arrived at Plymouth; on the 29th was chased four hours by a great fleet, supposed to be De Beaufort's; had to look about him, having seen several other ships.
Aug. 12.
Dover.
87. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Is guiltless of the charge brought against him, and his accuser is very guilty, and causes him much loss, beside the vexations of "that known knave, Edy, the clerk to the late Commissioners of Dover." The Barbadoes and Virginia fleets have passed, under convoy of Capt. Robt. Saunders of the St. Patrick, who met six French privateers, sunk three, sent two into Portsmouth, and took one of 30 guns with him into the fleet; the shallop has not yet returned.
Aug. 12.
Plymouth Fort.
88. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Requests him to be mindful of his business; will write to Lord Arlington about it. A London merchantman arrived from Lisbon saw between 20 and 30 French men-of-war making towards Rochelle, but was too nimble for them.
Aug. 12.
Falmouth.
89. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Four great ships, supposed to be some of our East India merchants, have passed eastward.
Aug. 13.
Royal James.
90. Ja. Reade to Williamson. Prince Rupert and the Duke of Albemarle, with the whole fleet, are under sail for Sole Bay; they have taken more prizes. Has sent Lord Craven an invoice of the goods belonging to one man, laden in several ships for Archangel, by which to judge of the rest. Encloses,
90. i. Account of masts, &c., laden on one of the captured ships.
Aug. 13.
Weymouth.
91. John Pocock to James Hickes. The postmaster there and others have been restrained, and are now sent for before the Council Board, for speaking against the Duke's secretary. The Ostenders are carried to Cowes. The western coasts are clear.
Aug. 13.
Aldborough. 10 p.m.
92. Rich. Browne to Williamson. The captain of the John and Thomas, which brought in two corn prizes, met Sir Rob. Holmes, who told him of the act on the Schelling; he would have burned the Vlie, but the generals called him off. The Hull fleet of 20 sail, with the Blackamoor as convoy, has sailed southward.
Aug. 13.
Sunderland.
93. Ben. Francis to Williamson. Three frigates, which have brought in 100 sail of ships from the south, report that in all their voyage they discovered no enemy on the coasts, and that the fleet is in a gallant posture on the Dutch coast.
Aug. 13.
Pembroke.
94. Fras. Malory to Williamson. On the 10th a terrible thunder storm burned a mow of corn, and killed a man and dog which ran to it for shelter. The prize Two Brothers of Rochelle has sailed for Bristol.
Aug. 13. 95. Fras. Malory to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect.
Aug. 13.
Bridlington.
96. John Bower to James Hickes. John Wiggener, commander of the John and Giles ketch, which attends on the General, went to the coast of Holland, expecting to find the fleet at the mouth of the Texel, but did not see them; he had the Lily and a galliot with him, which latter was taken by three Holland men-of-war, who gave them chase.
Aug. 13.
Swansea.
97. John Man to Williamson. A frigate, he thinks the Sapphire, [Paradox ?] has taken the French privateer which took the Scilly packet boat, and several other vessels, her captain and 30 men being killed in the fight. The Martin lies in the road windbound.
Aug. 13.
West Cowes.
98. John Lysle to Williamson. Particulars of examinations of prizes. That taken by the Paradox was Notre Dame of Mount Carmel of St. Malo, and the death of her captain, Lewis La Barre, seigneur de Grosleu and cavalier of the order of Mount Carmel, is much lamented among the French prisoners; most of the 22 men who were put on shore at Dartmouth mortally wounded are dead; she had taken three prizes before her capture. The Hawk has brought in three wine and brandy prizes, Flemish ships, who report that 15 great Holland ships, richly laden with brandy and wines, left Bourdeaux with them and went the northern passage, and they left 25 more Hollanders lading to go the same way, beside Swedish and French ships. A wine prize from Bourneuffe, brought in by the Eagle, reports that there is great dearth of provisions there, all oxen, hogs, &c., being sent to Rochelle, against De Beaufort's coming. Maurice Fowler, an Irishman, has become captain of a French manof-war, and sails from St. Malo to revenge the capture by the Deptford ketch of the ship St. Thomas of St. Malo, laden with herrings, belonging to St. Malo, but which he claimed as belonging to Dublin; the fish were sold and the money and ship are detained; supposes that by his becoming a rebel, they will be condemned. [3 pages.]
Aug. 13.
Yarmouth.
99. Rich. Bower to Williamson. The John and Thomas has called to put on shore 60 sick and wounded men from the fleet. She is carrying to London two great fly-boat prizes, laden with corn and flax, taken by the Dragon. Always receives the printed papers when they are out of date, and have been some days in other hands in the town.
Aug. 13.
Bridlington.
100. John Bower to James Hickes. A fleet of 100 light colliers has sailed northwards with two convoys, which he hopes will bring the colliers from Newcastle to London, and thus afford a good supply of men for the fleet.
Aug. 13.
Hull.
101. Luke Whittington to James Hickes. Four or five ships are coming up the Humber, but it is not known what they are.
Aug. 13. 102. Petition of William Burton, of Great Yarmouth, merchant, to the King. Conceives himself included in the proclamation for return of certain persons abroad to England, but was in debt on the public account to hundreds of persons in Great Yarmouth, before the Restoration, and being sued by some of them in 1661, was forced to return into Holland, where he has continued since, merchandising, but not interfering in the differences between the King and the Hollanders. Came down to Ostend with Mr. Disbrowe to embark for England, but was there informed that Lord Arlington had procured leave for his continuance at Rotterdam, if he would pay 400l. Relying on this, and being unable to satisfy the pretences of the Yarmouth people, returned to Rotterdam, and now the time limited by the proclamation is over. Begs a licence to continue beyond seas, being ready to remove from Rotterdam to some place in amity with His Majesty.
Aug. 13.
[Norwich.]
103. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. There are great hopes of a decrease in the bill [of mortality] this week.
Aug. 13.
Dover.
104. J. Carlisle to Williamson. Capt. Holmes of the Lenox has sent in a wine and brandy prize, taken under the fort of Calais, whither they chased her; the men took to their boat and got ashore. Several Calais boats were manned to retrieve her, but in vain. Capt. Jos. Saunders is dead. Will clear himself of the charges against him as to the prize office. The sickness increases daily at Dover.
Aug. 13.
Chester Castle.
105. Sir Geoffrey Shakerley to Williamson. Has no news from those parts, but gives particulars of the dissolution of the Irish Parliament on the 7th instant. The settlement of the kingdom by the court of claims is adjudged reasonable by all, except perhaps outlaws or tories to the number of 100 in all parts of the kingdom.
Aug. 13.
West Cowes.
106. John Knight to Williamson. A shallop from Guernsey brings news that the French King has drawn down 20,000 men between Normandy and St. Malo, and the country people are ordered from time to time to bring them in four days' provisions.
Aug. 13.
Royal James.
107. Duke of Albemarle to Lord Arlington. Is glad to have Sir Thos. Clifford back. Is sailing towards Sole Bay with a fair wind, being within 20 leagues of the coast. Hopes soon to be able to meet the enemy if they come forth, if not to attend them there.
Aug. 13.
Noon, Royal James, 14 leagues from Sole Bay.
108. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. Went on board the Adventure Wednesday the 8th; on Friday made the Holland coast, five leagues south of the Texel; came off the Vlie, and stood northwest, expecting to find the fleet; met several ketches that had been seeking it two or three days; supposed it might be gone northward; on some intelligence of the Dutch East India fleet, and made towards the east of the Dogger Bank, and hanging out a light, was joined by six small vessels. Before going northwards, took a little trip into shore, and there found the fleet, in an excellent post to hinder any ships going to the enemy's ports, but much to the east of where it was expected to be. Was prevented by the calm from coming on board the generals till 6 p.m., when Sir Phil. Howard had left with tidings of the sucesss in firing so many ships, and they were sailing for Sole Bay. Hopes supplies and seamen will meet them there. Sir Adrian Scroop, commander of the troops in Suffolk, and Sir John Rous, of the foot regiment, should be ordered to have their men always on the scout to hinder seamen from running away. The last success is of great reputation, and a great loss to the Hollander; most of the ships were outward bound and richly laden, as proved by their bills of lading, some of which are brought off. They had also on board scandalous pamphlets of their power and our weakness, which they intended to spread into all parts of the world. It seems their fleet had intended to come out and hold ours in play, whilst their merchantmen got round to the northward, but as this is frustrated, and their East India men not to return this year, they are not likely to hazard another loss, especially as this last action has struck terror in their men, and the loss of 160 large ships will cause disorder among the commonalty. The Lily has chased and brought in a great flyboat, laden with iron and large masts. In the Danish papers, it would be well to put in Latin the words of the treaty they concluded with Sir Gilbert [Talbot] and the writer. Mr. Hayes wants employment for a brother of his in the prize office in Ireland. Prizes are brought in daily, and at request of the Lord General, has taken the examinations of one or two, but has not servants about him to take care of them; truly the employment is in such disrepute that it is become a jest and a bye-word. Managed it last year so that every captain in the fleet was glad of his assistance to preserve prizes for the King, and they were sent into port without bulk broken, but begs not to have the charge again, for as the case now stands, can neither do it for the King's profit nor his own reputation. The generals think no place too difficult, and will even attack Bergen, when they go out again, if the East India fleet has put in there. When the fleet drew off, 50 men would stay to plunder in the fired houses; a ketch was left to bring them off, and this morning they returned and were checked for their unruliness, and told of their danger; they swore they were kings of the island for a night, and cared not a straw for hazard, so they might domineer; "there is not such resolution and courage in any common men in the world;" only seven or eight men are missing, and those lost by fire, not the enemy. Is consoled for his own absence by there having been no great encounter with the enemy. Money should be ready to pay off the great ships against they return. [6¼ pages.]
Aug. 13. 109. Report by Robt. Mayors, of Sir Solomon Swale's timber in the parish of Cockseal, Sussex. With note [by Pepys] that he was offered 50s. a load, but stood for 3l. and parted. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 13.
Delft, Holland.
110. Capt. John Pearse to the Navy Comrs. The ship is lost; something might have been done to save her, had he not been hindered by base cowardly rogues, willing to sell their king and country for 6d.; begs that no credit may be given to their tale before his arrival; has served in the ship three years, and been at great losses; begs that his wife may receive money to relieve him and his children. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 13.
Conpill.
111. Dan. Furzer to the Navy Comrs. The price formerly given for the carriage of timber, though thought too low, was accepted by the carriers when they had little else to do, and although when other business interfered there was some hindrance, yet it was not one hundreth part the difficulty and trouble there has been of late; has proposed nothing but what is probable and facile concerning the the launching. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 13.
Chatham Dock.
112. Thos. Lewsley to [the Navy Comrs.] Particulars of a parcel of oak timber belonging to Mr. Hayward, of Cranbrook. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 14.
Plymouth.
113. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Has sent to Dartmouth about the cordage, and returned the sailcloth considered too dear; the Prize Comrs. have orders to deliver the goods with the deal ships; will make them ready against the first opportunity of convoy for Portsmouth; the Victory and Constant Warwick sail to-morrow. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 14.
Portsmouth Dockyard.
114. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Shall be glad to see the hemp ship arrive in safety; hopes to find in her some small concerns of his own; the sails for Plymouth are ready; wishes the order had been more plain; has sent them according to his own understanding; hopes that will prove to be what was intended. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages.]
Aug. 14.
Edinburgh.
115. Rob. Meine to Williamson. The Earl of Athol's troop, 60 wellappointed gentlemen of quality, most of them old officers, was mustered. Another prize is taken. Requests two Gazettes always to be sent, for the Archbishop of Glasgow and himself; the levies of horse and foot go on well, but money is wanting; every wellappointed horseman receives 20l. levying money, and goodwill to serve the King is not wanting.
Aug. 14.
Walmer.
116. Ri. Watts to [Williamson]. Arrival and departure of ships. The master of a Virginia vessel says there are at least 20 Dutch and French ships to the west and south of Ireland, and only three or four of the King's vessels there, so that English ships cannot pass.
Aug. 14.
Harwich.
117. Fras. Newby to James Hickes. A ketch belonging to Sir Rob. Holmes brings news of his attack on the Schelling; has spoken with several eye-witnesses, and seen some of the Dutch plate that was plundered.
Aug. 14.
Harwich.
118. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Details of Sir Rob. Holmes' attack on the ships in the Vlie and on the Schelling: on a high land at a distance, were 800 men in arms with Dutch colours, but they did not attempt to come near; the Schelling was taken on Friday; on Thursday night was thunder, rain, and wind, which blew up the fires of the ships that had burnt to the water, when 90 distinct fires were counted; 1,500 men with land arms went with Sir Robert. The carpenters [at the dockyard] hearing the news, shouted and rang the bells. The fleet is to be in Southwold Bay to-morrow; it has taken many prizes.
Aug. 14.
Bridlington.
119. John Bower to James Hickes. Another report of Sir Rob. Holmes' attack on the ships and the Schelling; he lost only one man killed and one wounded, and three fire-ships, and brought off 30 or 40 ships or smacks to carry the plunder. The Lord General sent the Fountain to fetch the collier fleet yet in Tynemouth; ships are now passing to and fro about their employments.
Aug. 14.
Falmouth.
120. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Has little news, the three privateers of that harbour being stopped from going to sea.
Aug. 14.
Falmouth.
121. Thos. Holden to Williamson. To the same effect as the preceding and his letter to Hickes of the 12th instant.
Aug. 14. 122. Receipt by Rob. Morris and Isaac Sherwin of 7s. 8¼d. from Mr. Boldack, as the 6th quarterly payment of the Royal aid, for his office of postmaster. Annexing,
122. i. Note by the same that they have four several times distrained on John Boldack for his office of postmaster, by the Commissioners' warrant.
Aug. 14. 123. Petition of Capt. John Rives, of London, to the King, for a place as one of the Farmers of Customs, entering into the covenants and raising his proportion of the money. Served in the late rebellion, and was expelled his fellowship in New College, Oxford, and obliged to go abroad, where he supplied His Majesty with 500l.; had promises of favour, and served well in the late farm of Excise.
Aug. 14.
Newcastle.
124. Rich. Forster to Williamson. A fleet of light colliers has come to the bar, with three frigates as a convoy, which have arrived in good time, as the fleet of colliers had resolved to go the first fair wind, and can now sail in safety.
Aug. 14.
Plymouth.
125. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. Arrival of ships in that harbour.
Aug. 14.
Plymouth Fort.
126. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Has written to Lord Arlington to move the King to settle his pension on a good fund in future, and pay the arrears. If his lordship will but move it cor dially, the business will be done. Knows it is an ill time to look for money, but thinks a warrant might be got from Lord Ashley to pay him his arrears out of the prize office at Plymouth.
Aug. 14.
Alban Hall.
127. T. L[amplugh] to Williamson. Sends his wife's thanks for half a buck; they have not yet digested their sorrow for the loss of their little Joseph, Williamson's godson, a hopeful and forward child. There are three sisters now together at Charleton; his wife was so disconsolate that she wanted comforters.
Aug. 14.
Minehead.
128. John Maurice to James Hickes. Some pickeroons are still plying between Cork and Waterford, and a caper took two small vessels in sight of Youghal harbour. The Irish Parliament has been dissolved by the Duke [of Ormond] in person. He has ordered the Harp to convoy a ship from Nevis bound for Bristol. Begs half a crown a quarter more for the Taunton foot post, George Knight, who has only 4s. 6d. a week.
Aug. 14.
Southwold.
129. Willm. Waynfleet to Williamson. Sir Thos. Clifford has written to say that the fleet is coming to Southwold Bay, and to ask preparation for the sick, wounded, and prisoners who are to come out of prizes. Sends letters from the Duke of Albemarle.
Aug. 14.
Plymouth.
130. John Clarke to Williamson. A vessel laden with oil from Oporto to London has arrived. The Constant Warwick and Orange are refitting after their late skirmish, and then will go to their station.
Aug. 14. 131. John Clarke to James Hickes. To the same effect.
Aug. [14 ?]
20 leagues from land.
132. Duke of Albemarle to the King. Thanks for his gracious letter. Prince Rupert and he think it their greatest honour to serve His Majesty. They are sailing for Solebay with a fair wind, and hope to find provisions, having sent to Comr. Taylor to forward them. Wishes to clear a gallant man falsely accused, Sir Jeremiah Smith, who had more men killed and hurt, and his ship received more shot than any in the fleet. There is not a more spirited man serves in the fleet. A vessel is taken laden with masts and iron. Endorsed, "Received 16th August." [2 pages.] Encloses,
132. i. Account of the masts, &c., on the above ship.
Aug. 14. 133. Statement of the arrears of militia money collected in several counties and towns, with memoranda relating to nonpayment of the same in others. [1¼ pages.]
Aug. 15. Warrant for a grant to Edward Gray, Thos. Killigrew, and 50 others, to whom the office of licensing pedlars and petty chapmen was granted 24th May 1665, of the rent of 900 out of 1,000 marks, reserved to the Crown for the said licence. [Ent. Book 23, p. 114.]
Aug. 15.
Whitehall.
Warrant to Henry Lord Wotton to preserve the game near Hampstead, Middlesex, taking up all greyhounds, setting dogs, &c., and prosecuting all offenders. [Case C., Charles II., No. 2.]
Aug. 15.
Whitehall.
134. Warrant from Lord Arlington to a messenger of the Chamber to repair to Yarmouth, Norfolk, and bring the postmaster there up in safe custody before his lordship.
Aug. 15.
Dover.
135. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. The shallop has been unable to reach the fleet, because Thos Harwood, the commander of the Drake, undervaluing Lord [Arlington's] protection, took away two of her men. Is desired to return the boat to the custom house, and Stephen Rogers, the former cowardly master, is to be continued. The Nieuport packet brings tidings that the English fleet is riding between the Texel and the Maes, and the Holland fleet of 100 sail nearly ready to come out. The Calais packet says the French will not believe that the Dutch are beaten. Four of the King's frigates, come from the Downs, are cruising in the Narrows.
Aug. 15.
5 p.m., Dover.
136. J. C[arlisle] to Williamson. The frigates in the Narrows are Swedes bound for London, laden with pitch and tar, and a Danish ship laden with deals. The Swedes are fixed in the English interest, and durst not stir till news was brought that the Dutch were beaten; the French begin to speak of peace.
Aug. 15.
Weymouth.
137. John Pocock to James Hickes. A boat from Jersey says they are very ready there to meet any opposition, and that Sir Thos. Morgan, the governor, has lain in the field every night these six weeks. Several persons in those islands have sent their goods into the parts about Weymouth, for fear of an enemy. A fresh foot company has been sent into the Isle of Portland. and the old ones are to be otherwise disposed of.
Aug. 15. 138. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. The John and Thomas has brought in two Dutch fly-boats, laden with corn, hemp, &c.
Aug. 15.
Chester.
139. Ma. Anderton to Williamson. On the 10th, the Dublin militia were in the field, and the Lord Lieutenant was present. Capt. Johnson has gone in search of two or three capers, which pester the coasts about Youghall, and have taken several vessels.
Aug. 15.
Chester.
140. Sir Geoffery Shakerley to Williamson. Mr. Jones, Lord Derby's man, took 470l., the remainder of Lancashire militia money, preserved in a chest in the castle, which, with 300l. more received a month ago, is to be returned to Sir Stephen Fox, according to an order from the Earl and some of his deputy lieutenants. The whole sum that came to the castle was 1,120l., but 350l. was delivered for the use of the militia there.
Aug. 15.
Lynn.
141. Edw. Bodham to Williamson. A French sloop has taken a Wells vessel, laden with malt and barley for Newcastle, a little north of Ingoldmiles. Report of the attack on the Vlie island; Lynn is free from the plague, but much visited with fever.
Aug. 15.
West Cowes.
142. John Knight to Williamson. The prisoners taken in the French man-of-war, and put on shore by Capt. Leonard Guy, commander of the Paradox, were yesterday carried to Mandland House, near Winchester.
Aug. 15.
Yarmouth.
143. Rich. Bower to Williamson. Conceives that he has heard from Sir Phil. Howard and Col. Seymour, who landed on Monday and went off for London, of the attack on the Schelling. The fleet is at anchor in Southwold Bay.
Aug. 15.
Custom House.
144. T. Hodges to Williamson. Sends the news of which men's heads are full. Prefixing,
144. i. Thos. Cole to —. The Virginia ships, 8 or 10, with 10 or 12 more from foreign parts, were waited for by 6 privateers; Capt. Robt. Saunders, of the St. Patrick, took 3 and sunk the other 3. Letters from Flanders report that the English have burned a small village near Scheveling. The Dover Castle, late the Lenox, has sent in a wine and brandy prize, the men escaping in their boats.
Dover, Aug. 12, 1666.
Aug. 15.
Golden Grove.
145. Earl of Carbery to Williamson. Has not received Lord Arlington's answers to his dispatches. Sends a Merionethshire address, to be put amongst the rest of the North Wales papers sent in his last dispatches.
Aug. 15.
Southwold.
146. Wm. Waynflet to Sir Wm. Doyley, Bart. Has attended the generals on board the Royal James, and told them that Sir William waited there two nights for them, and had left the writer strict charge to be careful of the sick, wounded, and prisoners. The latter will be sent to-morrow; has asked the assistance of Sir John Rous's soldiers. The fleet will remain there some days. The Hamburg fleet passed on Saturday, but the generals did not see them. At the Vlie, 160 Holland ships and 1,000 houses were burnt, and 20 prizes brought away; the Hollanders lost four millions sterling. The fleet is in gallant posture, few sick on board.
Aug. 15.
Boston.
147. Robt. Gray to James Hickes. A ship was taken off the shore last week, by a sloop which has haunted the coast a great while. Capt. Murray, the Scotch privateer, was taken by a Dane on the coast of Norway, after a stout dispute; 150 Dutch ships are going for the East country, by several fleets.
Aug. 15.
Hull.
148. Luke Whittington to Williamson. The Danish fleet is riding before Copenhagen, and the Swedes' fleet attending their motions. The Dane has two or three men-of-war cruising about Elsinore. The sea is full of Holland merchantmen trading to and from Sweden, and so into the Baltic seas. There are reports of squadrons of the English fleet having beaten the men-of-war that were to guard the Holland fishing busses, and sunk or taken 80 busses.
Aug. 15.
9 p.m. Aldborough.
149. Rich. Browne to Williamson. The St. Patrick, having failed to find the fleet, stood southward, but must have seen it come to anchor in Southwold Bay and have heard the salutes. Asks him to write to Paine, the postmaster at Saxmundham, who grumbles at and neglects the expresses sent.
Aug. 15.
Wednesday, 4 p.m., Sole Bay.
150. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. By contrary winds and calms, they have been delayed reaching there earlier. The Gottenburg fleet passed on Sunday, and the four Hamburg ships and 20 victuallers; with only two convoys, have gone to seek the fleet between the Vlie and Texel; four or five frigates were left cruising to give notice where it was gone, so hopes they will join it safely. The generals long to know how the burning of the ships and town is taken in Holland. Sir Robt. Holmes is satisfied that his promise to the Dane for guiding them in is made good. He is very capable of good counsel.
Aug. 15. 151. Note that on Aug. 15, the English fleet was seen about the Maes and Scheveling, steering for the North, and was supposed undoubtedly to make for the Texel and the Vlie.
Aug. 15.
Chatham Dock.
152. Thos. Lewsley to [the Navy Comrs.] Particulars of a parcel of oak timber belonging to Mr. Willmot, at Feversham and Otterden. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 15.
Bristol.
153. Sir John Knight to the Navy Comrs. Sends his accounts for money disbursed in fitting out the St. Patrick, and for masts bought and put aboard the Friezland; has 808l. 8s. 8d. due upon the former account for the Mermaid and Fox frigate; begs an order upon the collector of customs; also payment of 100l. due for timber supplied to Fras. Baylie for the building of his last new ship. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 16. 154. Certificate by Capt. Geo. Watson, that Gregory Headley, surgeon of the Mermaid, has received no recruit of stores since his first six months' service. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 16.
Portsmouth Dockyard.
155. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The Friezland was in port and partly unladen before contrary orders arrived; she is now taking all things on board again, and by night will be ready to sail; no ship has yet arrived for the New England masts. [Adm. Paper.]
Aug. 16. 156. Capt. Geo. Erwin and J. Uthwat to the Navy Comrs. The ship Daniel is received, with her rigging, tackle, and furniture, according to particulars in the inventory. [Adm. Paper.] Enclose,
156. i. Computation by John Tooker of the tonnage of the lading of the Daniel; total, 175 tons 10 cwt.
Aug. 16.
Swansea.
157. Jo. Man to Williamson. The Martin has sailed, convoying several colliers, and will take others from Milford to Land's End. The country is quiet, and hopes to reap advantage from the late victory over the Dutch.
Aug. 16.
Harwich.
158. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Sends a relation from a friend on board the Rupert; three or four ships are come from the fleet to be fitted; a captain says the Dutch will be out in two or three days, fitted or not fitted, manned or not manned, and the people are so hot that they are ready to stone them out. Several ships have come in to be refitted, and others have gone to the fleet. Encloses,
158. i. —to [Silas Taylor]. Particulars of Sir Rob. Holmes' attack on the vessels in the Vlie and the Schelling: the ships were piloted by a Dutch reformado; great riches were burnt in the town, and more in the ships, some of which were bound southwards and some for Russia. Some seamen and soldiers got good plunder, though strict orders were given to the contrary. The English only lost five or six men. The Rupert, Sole Bay, Aug. 15
Aug. 16. 159. Dr. Richardson to Edm. Custis, of Bruges. Thanks for good news of his son, whom he believed cast away in his ship. Is of no party but that of Jesus against wickedness. Desires the ruin of no man, especially not of his native country nor King, and concerns himself not in the war, but prays for the safety of the place and people where he enjoys the freedom which few kings on earth are willing to give; greater things are on the wheel, and hopes soon to be found on Mount Zion. Is willing to correspond with him and outvie him in affection, if he can serve him, but has a great throng of business, and meddles little in public affairs. The English have lost far more in the engagement than the Hollanders, who want neither courage nor accord. The game is not up, as will be perceived before the week is at an end. [Damaged. With note by Custis that he knows not whether the writer be in jest or earnest.]
Aug. 16.
Antwerp.
160. [Aphara Behn to Mr. Halsall]. Has had an interview with Celadon [Wm. Scott], taking a coach and going a day's journey with him for an opportunity of speaking to him; though at first shy, he became by arguments extremely willing to undertake the service, but said she must go to Holland, as [Bampfield] hardly suffers him out of his sight, especially to go to Flanders, being the most jealous creature alive of the English officers about him. Celadon intends to resign his place in the troops, and accept some office less troublesome, and where he can do more effectually what she desires. He thought some time ago, of corresponding with Lord Arlington, but was prevented. [Bampfield] hides nothing from him, but watches all his actions so closely that he fears difficulty in sending what he writes. All the English are infinitely dissatisfied with [Bampfield], and most of them resolve to quit his troop and address themselves to the [States], from whom they expect more civility than from him who has drawn them in, and tries to keep them from such applications. Thinks she must venture to the Hague rather than miss what he promises, but Sir Ant. Desmarces, with whom she sailed, and to whom she told her business, advises her not to go to Holland. The man in Ludgate is a base rogue; he left, promising to set up a correspondence in all English seaports, and to let the Hollanders know when any merchant ships went out. Has spent the 40l. she brought with her, and wants money. Sends a cypher in single characters, which is easier than the double one she was to employ. [4 pages; the words in parentheses are in cypher.]
Aug. 16.
Fleet Prison.
161. George Carew to Lord Arlington. Recapitulates his past services, in writing a treatise on the Crown revenue, refraining from making a claim for 9,000l. due to him on behalf of his first wife, from the estates of Sir Wm. Courteen and Sir Paul Pindar, to whom the late King owed 50,000l.; also to his share in a debt of 200,000l. to the Farmers of Customs; also to the soil of Barbadoes, as the property of Sir Wm. Courteen, the first planter; but having, by a special exception in the treaty with the States General, been granted letters of reprisal against the Dutch, for injuries suffered by Courteen and Pindar in the East Indies, begs that his patent may not be recalled by proclamation till he is heard.
Aug. 16.
Gatehouse.
162. Petition of Willm. Goodman, prisoner at the Gatehouse, to Lord Arlington, for leave to answer on oath the charges against him, and for release on sufficient bail for good behaviour; has been kept close prisoner since August 3, through information given against him.
Aug. 16. Reference to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland of the petition of Col. Wm. Legg, for a grant of the making and selling of tobacco pipes. [Ent. Book 18, p. 218.]
Aug. 16.
Harwich.
163. Fras. Newby to James Hickes. The greatest part of the fleet has arrived in Oseley Bay.
Aug. 16.
Royal James, Sole Bay.
164. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. The victuallers and Hamburg fleet of 30 sail, which went to the coast of Holland to find the English fleet, have returned and joined them, except the Breda, which indiscreetly ran ashore too near the coast, and could not be moved off, as were several victuallers who had also run ashore; knows not how the other men-of-war will answer for not sending their boats to fetch off the men. The fleet told the Little Mary of it, and she made towards the Breda, but found about her 12 or 13 Holland smacks that had carried away all the men. The Mary fired the vessel and came away. This is a great prejudice to the King's affairs, considering what a trophy will be made of the men as prisoners. The watering places in the bay are bad, and the supply of beer is insufficient; the supernumeraries taken in the last expedition make the supply of victuals short, and six men are put to four men's allowance; the victuals should be hastened with all speed. The convoy sent for the Hamburg ships can bring home those there already laden for England. An Ostender from Bergen reports that the Hollanders are expecting their East India fleet, which is later than it has been known. The generals are very impatient for news of the Holland fleet's coming out again, and of the temper they were in after the firing of their ships and town. A Nieuport skipper reports them in great distress for want of men; the seamen running away daily, and the landmen refusing to be sent on board; the general thinks they will not come out again to fight this year; Prince [Rupert] is of a different opinion, and they have laid a wager of five pieces upon it. The last success makes the whole fleet anxious to do something; the common men want to attack Bergen, if the East India fleet have got in there, or Elisnore, or to cut the banks and drown much of Holland; specifies the difficulties of these several enterprises, and hopes no temptation will induce separation of the fleet, without a certainty that the Dutch will not come out. The generals should remember that the safety of England lies with them, and that, unless the enemy be first beaten, an attack would be hazardous, and their successes would be greatly diminished, if they were only repulsed without loss.
Money must be ready to pay off the great ships against they come in, if the King's credit is to be preserved, if men obtained or kept another year, and if discipline preserved in the fleet. Parliament will grant supplies more readily when they are converted to the right use, and if not, any good motions that way might be obstructed under the common pretence of how it is expended. Has observed in their grants of money, that if the sum be large and bountiful, it is always given on a sudden, and the success of the ready payment of the men would be inducements to them to do handsomely at the first meeting; but if they inspect, as they call it, they will not do what they ought. The Royal Charles and other ships at Sheerness and Harwich should be hastened to the fleet. The Prince and Duke want double the number of the six fire-ships ordered, as some were spent this last expedition. Has been on shore to see the 600 or 700 sick men well provided for, and the 100 prisoners taken in the merchant ships well secured. The prizes are in ill case, for there is no one to take care of them, and the generals are unwilling to spare men to carry them into port. A London commissioner should be posted down; the whole affair is in much confusion. [8 pages.]
Aug. 16.
Portsmouth.
165. Robt. Mills to James Hickes. Thanks for his Gazette and mortality [bill].
Aug. 16.
Edinburgh.
166. R. [Rob. Meine] to Williamson. A proclamation is issued for thanksgiving for the victory over the Dutch. More prizes come in, which keep life in the merchants, who else would be ruined for want of trade; that with Ostend, Bruges, and other places infected with plague is now forbidden by proclamation from Council. The levies go forward well, and one troop or another rendezvous daily.
Aug. 16.
Queen's College, Oxford.
167. J. B[eeby] to Williamson. Has received his noble present of a silver trumpet and two pairs of banners. The provost and all the company highly extol them, and are very grateful for them. The trumpet was long sounded in the quadrangle; wine was drunk through the hall, and venison pasties were at every table, there being a whole buck from Lady Foster of Aldermaston, beside his from Woodstock. Only wanted Williamson's tutor [Lamplugh], who was at Charleton with his lady's relations, Williamson's godson Joseph being dead.