Charles II - volume 194: March 15-24, 1667

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 194: March 15-24, 1667', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1666-7, (London, 1864) pp. 561-584. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1666-7/pp561-584 [accessed 27 March 2024]

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March 15-24, 1667

March 15. 1. "Advices," being notes from letters calendared above, and also the following:—
Harwich, March 14: The Speedwell and Drake are gone to the Buoy of the Nore to receive pay.
Edingburgh, March 9: A Scotch privateer and a merchant ship are stranded in Kircaldy, and three Dutch men-of-war near St. Andrew's.
Newcastle, March 12: The convoy from Leith has been driven back thither again. Three vessels are missing.
Minehead, March 12: A Bristol vessel, belonging to the Forest [of Dean], laden with tobacco and wines, was wrecked in King's Road, and two or three hogsheads taken up and rifled by the people. A small bark from St. Lucas, bound for Apsom, struck upon Newton Sands, but her men escaped in the boat to Devonshire.
Pendennis, March 11: Arrival and departure of vessels. Capt. Marshall, once lieutenant in the Have-at-all, has been six weeks in Salcombe Bay with a prize, supposed rich, and has brought her into Helford very empty.
Portsmouth, March 14: The Bonaventure is ordered for Barbadoes, and the Princess for the Downs.
Berwick, March 20: A Scots vessel belonging to the Leith convoy was cast away near Scrymerston, but most of the men saved.
Weymouth, March 13: 33 great ships have stood W.S.W. A small caper frequents the road.
Lynn, March 13: The Pearl is said to have sent in a pickeroon with 40 men to Blackney Haven. Some Dutch seamen have escaped ashore near Blackney.
Margate, March 11: A Hamburger, laden with deals, was driven ashore, but the men saved. [2½ pages.]
March 15.
Yarmouth.
2. Rich. Bower to Williamson. Nine or ten vessels have passed from the south without convoy; two are of Yarmouth and came in, the rest are Whitby men, and have gone northward. A Dutch caper is reported to be taken and carried into Blackney haven.
March 15. 3. Jo. Cooke to Williamson. Sends a letter for Williamson which he found thrust under the door of his office. Asks his directions concerning M. Petit. Recommends a request of Dr. Duport: the King, at the Archbishop of Canterbury's motion, has signed his recommendation, and he wishes an advertisement to be published in the few next Gazettes.
March 15. 4. Col. Anth. Gilby to Williamson. A Swedish vessel from Ostend reports that the Hollanders are not fitting out their great ships, nor making any great preparations for war, believing there will be a peace.
March 15. 5. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. The packet boat is not quite lost, but may be retrieved. To-day's boat was plundered at sea by a Dutch caper, who took two hogsheads of sack, and all that was left by the soldiers and townsmen to some gentlemen who were in the former wrecked boat, but swam for their lives to Nieuport, and came over in this. Will narrowly look after the proclamation, if the person [Duke of Buckingham] come that way.
March 15.
Dover.
6. John Carlisle to Lord Arlington. The charge of the shallop of the farmers of the customs, whilst employed by him in His Majesty's service, was 43l. 14s. 2d. The farmers are willing to pay it, provided they have an order to the Lord Treasurer for defalcation of the same, which they request. Annexing,
6. i. Account of the expenses of the said shallop in fitting it for sea, wages, &c. July and Sept. 1666.
March 15.
Dover.
7. John Carlisle to Williamson. Entreats his assistance in obtaining the above-named sum, as the seamen want their money.
March 15.
Plymouth.
8. John Clarke to Williamson. It is not likely that any of the 30 vessels put in will prove Dutch; Tyson is released, not proving to be the person he was supposed to be. A privateer has brought in a vessel, pretending to belong to Stockholm and bound for Hamburg, which is not likely to prove a prize.
March 15. 9. John Clarke to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect.
March 15.
Pembroke.
10. Fras. Malory to Williamson. Has no news this post.
March 15. 11. Fras. Malory to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect.
March 15.
Plymouth.
12. Sir John Knight to the Navy Comrs. Will postpone the sale of the St. Gertrude and the Noyals and canvas, in expectation of an order from the Commissioners of Prizes to deliver them for the use of the service. Wishes they had the pitch which was to have been sent by the ships that brought the stores for the St. David. The war stopping all navigation between Bristol and London, no vessel will take a freight for London; his son will freight a ship, if required, or send it to Plymouth. [Adm. Paper.]
March 15.
Deal.
13. Ri Watts to Williamson. A Flemish galliot struck on the Goodwin, but the Deal men are fetching it off. A French permission ship of 300 tons came in laden with linen, and is gone up to London.
March 15.
Deptford.
14. John Cox and J. Uthwat to Sir Wm. Batten. Send an account of anchors required for fitting ships at four places on the river. [Adm. Paper.]
March 15.
Buoy of the Nore.
15. Capt. Robt. Shepard to the Navy Comrs. Has been aboard with Sir John Mennes, and at his request, sends 53 tickets for their signature, belonging to men transferred to other ships named. [Adm. Paper.]
March 15.
The Guernsey, River Tyne.
16. Capt. T. Fisher to the Navy Comrs. The purser has not been aboard since the ship victualled at Sheerness, seven weeks since. Has appeased the men without his help, but as it is not the first occasion, and causes inconvenience and damage, recommends Christopher Paine, formerly a purser, and who has supplied his place, as more worthy of their warrant for the office. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Bristol.
17. John Badcock to Sir Wm. Penn. Mr. Baylie consented to calk the rents of the plank, but refused to pitch them, as it was not in his contract. Told him he would have the work done as it was executed in the King's yards; asks for their order that it is to be so. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Gravesend.
18. Rich. Elkin to the Navy Comrs. The person who committed the forgery was convicted and sentenced to pay 20 nobles, to stand in the pillory at Gravesend on two market days, with his crime written before him, and to be imprisoned until the fine was paid. Spoke to Sir John Heath to move the judge that the person might be at their honours' disposal; but to prevent mutiny, he thought it convenient that his punishment should not be otherwise than that mentioned. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Gravesend.
19. Rich. Elkin to Sam. Pepys. To similar effect. Sir John Heath gave great assistance, for which he deserves particular thanks. Was advised to fee one of the King's counsel, which he did. The Eagle is still in port. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Edwinstow.
20. John Russell to the Navy Comrs. Particulars as to the means and expense of sending timber from Stockwith to Hull, and its safety while lying there. Mr. Blaydes of Hull offered to build a ketch at the rate of 50s. per ton for the purpose, and bargained with Mr. Lester for the hire of his ketches, to carry three or four loads on trial, at 4s. the ton; but it will be the latter end of April before he can carry any, as there is no water at Bawtrey to load to Hull. It would be safer to send by vessels that would carry 50 or 60 loads. If there should be a dry summer, they may come up to Burton, and thus save 3s. in every load, besides being free from danger. Wm. Dratton, of Stockwith, will build a ketch in six weeks, finding all materials but the ironwork, at 40s. the ton. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages.]
March 16.
Ipswich.
21. Andrew Crawley to Sam. Pepys. Victualling of ships. There is an order to suspend brewing and baking until further orders from Squire Gauden. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Bristol.
22. Daniel Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Is prevented launching the ship this spring tide, by want of conveyances for the timber and of seamen to help the boatswain. Has inquired about the 1,000l. ordered, but cannot get it done. Can obtain there all stores required, but it will be an advantage to send the boatswain and cook's stores, of which he sends a list, by the vessels bringing the guns and the gunner's stores. [Adm. Paper.]
March 16.
Whitehall.
23. H. Muddiman to Sir David Stradling, Glamorganshire. Newsletter. Particulars given in his letter of March 14. Thirty persons perished in the packet boat from Ostend, chiefly boys belonging to the St. Patrick, lately lost. The Algerines seized an English ship, and took it near to Tunis, but whilst the Turks were ashore, the English brought the ship off; the Algerines will do mischief unless there be some ships to awe them. The Amsterdam vessel, which took three Yarmouth fishing boats, is sent prize to Hull. The Rose of Apsam, coming from Cadiz to Bristol, was cast away near Newton Nottage.
An uninhabited house in Bishopsgate Street, well situated to promote a fire, was blown up at 4 a.m., which confirms the jealousy that the former fire was begun by design; 20 have died at Norwich, 4 of the plague. A new life guard of horse is to be raised under the Duke of Cambridge, the Duke of Richmond captain, Hen. FitzJames lieutenant, and Hen. Howard cornet. News from Poland, Turkey, Sweden, and Holland. The Dutch prepare vigorously for war, though the rise from 400 to 450 in their East India accounts shows that they expect peace. The East India Company are said to have given in a memorial of their pretences against the Dutch, because a treaty is now managed in France, between Van Beuningen for the Dutch, the Earl of St. Alban's for England, M. de Lionne for France and M. Petkum for Denmark. The Earl of St. Alban's is said to have demanded the island of Poleron, which the Dutch were to have delivered by the treaty of 1662, but delayed till the war broke out, and then surrendered it to a few English, whom they immediately dispossessed. [3 pages.]
March 16.
Bridlington.
24. John Bower to James Hickes. The Guernsey and Hampshire have sailed for Tynemouth with other vessels, and will convoy back the laden collier fleet.
March 16.
Newcastle.
25. Rich Forster to Williamson. Several coasters have come in laden with corn. Also a Swedish vessel, which was taken by a Flushinger and detained 20 weeks; she reports that they are going on fast with their preparations for next spring.
March 16.
Weymouth.
26. John Pocock to James Hickes. Thanks for his letter of the 12th.
March [16 ?]
Holyhead.
27. Robt. Leigh to Williamson. Has been long on his journey from London, through going to see some friends at Lymm in Cheshire, and from the extreme weather in the Welsh mountains. It still continues, so that no packet boats have come from Ireland these three weeks, and those in the harbour dare not venture to sea till the winds grow less. Will go with the first that ventures. Sends compliments to Mr. Munn and Mr. and Mrs. Chiffinch. Forgot to deliver the cyphers in his hands; they are in his desk at his office. Begs his letters forwarding to Dublin. [2 pages.]
[March 16.]
Westminster.
28. Warrant for a presentation of Andrew Walton to the rectory of East Mersey, co. Essex. Endorsed with an expedit, March 29. [Latin.]
March 16. Minute of the above. [Ent. Book 19, p. 57.]
March 16. Warrant to the Justices of Assize for the western circuit to reprieve Thomas Seymour, in case he should be condemned for the murder of Henry Jones, the King intending to pardon him, as it was done in the heat of blood. [Ent. Book 14, p. 129.]
March 16. Warrant for admission of George Marsh as assistant to his father Rich. Marsh, in the office of keeper of the ordnance stores, &c., in the Tower, and at Woolwich and Chatham; the reversion of the said place having been granted him 7th Nov. 1649. [Ent. Book 23, pp. 409–10.]
[March 16.] 29. Draft of the above.
March 16. Pass for the Baron d'Isola to go into Flanders and to return. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 410.]
March 16. Privy seal to pay to George Cock 40,000l., for the sick and wounded and prisoners of war, out of the 1,256,347l. 13s. granted towards the maintenance of the present war. [Ent. Book 23, p. 410.]
March [16.] Docquet of the above.
March 16. Warrant for 150l. to George Tomlins. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 411.]
March 16. Commission for Sir Wm. Browne to be cornet to the Earl of Cleveland's own troop. [Ent. Book 20, p. 123.]
March 16.
Whitehall.
30. Estimate of the establishment for a marshal to the Horse Guards at 9s. a day, besides the pay of a servant who is to be mounted in the King's troop of Guards, but without doing duty as one of the troop; 163l. 16s. yearly, beginning March 16, 1667.
March 16.
Harwich.
31. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Begs that Mr. Lloyd may see his letter about the threee dogger boats. The great fleet of light colliers waits convoys to Newcastle.
March 16.
Aldborough.
32. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Several French and Flemish vessels appear off the town, and must be expected, as there are no men-of-war stirring. The Orange and Oxford are in Ousely Bay, but they never budge.
March 16 ?
10 a.m., Saturday.
33. [Lord Chancellor Clarendon] to Lord Arlington. Had just gone to bed when his letter arrived 11 p.m. last night. Was beginning to write this morning when the King came in, yet thinks this will reach his lordship before the lady will own being out of bed. The King having recommended her such a husband, cannot refuse to take notice of her complaint, and give what redress he can. He will refer the petition, and all matters arising therefrom, to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Chamberlain, Bishop of London, Lord Arlington, Lord Holles, and Sec. Morice, to compose differences if they can, if not, to certify to him the state of the case. Will be one of the referees if the lady desire, though not wishing to have anything to do with the knight. Lord Anglesey is her friend, and might be added to the number if she wish it; any three to proceed. Endorsed [by Williamson] "Lady Honora Howard."
March 17. Reference to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Earls of Clarendon, Manchester, and Anglesey, Lords Holles and Arlington, the Bishop of London, and Sec. Morice, of the petition of Lady Honoria, wife of Sir Rob. Howard, representing how far he is fallen from the contract made at the time of their marriage, and desiring relief. [Ent. Book 18, p. 246.]
March 17.
Berwick.
34. M. Scott to Williamson. Has no news this week.
March 17.
Falmouth.
35. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Some Swedes, Ostenders, and other vessels, which had been some time waiting a fair wind, have sailed.
March 17.
Deal.
36. Ri. Watts to Williamson. The ship fetched in by the Deal men from the Goodwin is in the Downs, taking in ballast; she is a Hollander, bound for Nantes. The small rain gives hope that the great frost now thawing will go away without a flood, which is almost a miracle, considering the abundance of snow.
March 17.
Plymouth.
37. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. Rear-Admiral Utbert and his squadron have brought in two Dutch and two French prizes, and taken four more, which were separated by storm. Several colliers have come in from Wales, which it is hoped will allay the high price of 40s. a quarter now paid for coals; yet the danger is great for want of convoy.
March 17.
Plymouth.
38. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. Arrival of eight ships named with three prizes; three others are not yet come in. The Garland and Adventure sunk a man-of-war bound for Jamaica, laden with supplies for ships on that coast. Mr. Lanyon complains of the want of supplies for the ships; although he has received sails, rigging, &c., from ships' officers, he will give no account of credit for them without the Commissioners' order, alleging that what is so received is in lieu of other goods delivered; is informed to the contrary by the ships' officers. [Adm. Paper.]
March 17.
Portsmouth.
39. Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. Several frigates are going to convoy some merchant ships to the Thames.
March 17.
Exeter.
40. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Has come to Exeter to the Assizes. Can only say, in reply to his of the 12th, that he believes no goods were entered or proffered to be entered.
March 17.
Whitehall.
41. Certificate by Lord Arlington, on Lady Chesterfield's petition for allowance according to privy seal of June 10, 1664, for extraordinary service in the Post Office, from 30 June 1665 to 30 Sept. 1666, on examination of her accounts, that 6,377l. 17s. 11d. should be allowed her for letters of the Dukes of Albemarle and Ormond, and Lord Lauderdale, and for the extra expenses incurred by war, plague, &c. [Copy.] Annexing,
41. i. "A true representation of the mistake of the 10th of June for the 31st of August, in the certificate."
March 17. Entry of the above, noting an alteration in the date of the privy seal, from June 10, to August 31, 1664. [Ent. Book 23, p. 408.]
March ? 42. Report on a petition of the Countess of Chesterfield for extra allowances in the Post Office, that she should be allowed for expresses sent out of course to or from the Dukes of York and Albemarle, on Admiralty and Navy business, and also for packets and letters sent by ordinary mails, to or from the Commissioners for prize goods. [Draft.]
March 18.
The Mary, Dublin.
43. Capt. Jas. Sharland to the Navy Comrs. A bill drawn on them in November last for 68l. for two new cables received of Wm. Bushell at Liverpool, and accepted, is not yet paid. Bushellrequests him to let them know that he is still without his money, but is willing to supply another cable, in lieu of that delivered to the Harp frigate by the order of Lord Ormond, as well as sails, cordage, &c., provided he has encouragement. [Adm. Paper.]
March 18.
Yarmouth.
44. [Rich. Bower] to Williamson. Strange reports are spread to make the people believe there is a design to bring in popery; that Lord Townshend is to be put out of the deputy lieutenantship and Mr. Howard put in his place; that the Duke of Albemarle and two or three lords are clapped up in the Tower; that the trained bands in London and about Dover and Deal are disarmed; that the Duke of Buckingham's prosecution arises from his disarming Papists in Yorkshire; that forces are coming down to disarm the trained bands about Yarmouth; such reports gain credit and cause strange jealousies. Thos. Parris, gunner of the port, was sent for before the bailiffs, for spreading some of these, and is bound to appear at the sessions; but the originator of the report is not traced. There are frequent conventicles, and no care taken to suppress them, nor can there be, as the wife of one of the bailiffs is continually amongst them; 200 lately met at Albertson's, within a door or two of bailiff Thaxter's; he told the informer, a chief constable, that he would send for his partner and consider of it, but they considered so long that the birds were flown; the wife of bailiff Huntington was there. The town is not to be trusted in its present condition. Sir Wm. Doyley cannot say so much, lest he should be ungrateful to his friends who brought him in burgess for the town, which friends were afterwards purged out of the house at Yarmouth by the commissioners, and slighted, but have since been so countenanced by him that those who were most zealous for the King's interest have been dejected and are quite cowed out. These are no times either for flattery or aspersion. Will send to the bailiffs the names of some of those who disperse these strange reports.
March 18.
The Jersey, 90 leagues S.W. of the Lizard.
45. John Scott to Williamson. Lord Willoughby of Parham, in the John and Margaret, sailed on the 11th, passed the Needles, and was off the Lizard on the 12th; on the 13th, the Jersey gave chase to a ship of Bruges, from Rochelle, which reported that the Holland fleet of 19 sail, from Nantes, Rochelle, &c., was near Ushant. Account of the wind since. Begs to be mentioned when he writes to Lord Willoughby. [1½ pages.]
March 18.
Truro.
46. Hugh Acland to Williamson. Two frigates have brought in two salt prizes to St. Ives.
March 18.
The Adventure, Plymouth.
47. Theophilus Wells to Williamson. Left Plymouth on the 24th, with the Garland, to convoy four vessels 40 leagues without the Soundings. On March 2, a prize was chased, attacked, and struck sail to the Adventure, but the Garland, which had been behind, came up and sent in a boat to take the prize; she refused to surrender to any but the vessel to whom she struck. The lieutenant and 20 men from the Adventure were accordingly sent on board her, and her captain and 16 men sent on board the Adventure. On this the Garland ran into the prize, and broke her down to the water; the men tried to save their lives by getting into the Garland, but one was knocked on the head and drowned. The prize belonged to the States of Flushing, and was bound for the West Indies to wait on some ships, and thence to Guinea to destroy all belonging to the English, but had obeyed orders in throwing her packet of letters overboard, if she met with any English ships of war. The Adventure has taken three Dutch vessels since, one after a long fight, but the noble captain worked the ship bravely. There is great press for seamen in France, and as fast as two or three ships are manned, they are sent out. They have several ships of 60 or 70 guns, which threaten to destroy all before them, and a great army of men on the shore, and they pity the miserable condition that will befall England. [2 pages.]
March 18. Warrant for a grant to Horatio Lord Townsend, on surrender of a similar grant, of the 4s. per chaldron, part of the duty payable on sea coals, on rent of 1,000l., with allowance of defalcations of sums received for forfeitures from fraudulent exports of coal. [Ent. Book 23, p. 412.]
March 18. Warrant for acceptance of a surrender of the former grant of 4s. a chaldron on sea coal to Lord Townshend, for which he was to pay 2,000l. rent. [Ent. Book 23, p. 412.]
March 18. Order for a warrant for payment of 2,000l. for repair of Richmond Park wall, lodges houses, gates, &c., according to a report thereon by the surveyor general. [Ent. Book 23, p. 413.]
March 18.
Peudennis.
48. Fras. Bellott to Williamson. Two Holland salt prizes have been sent into St. Ives; one was preserved by the men who took her, being ready to sink, and her own men wearied out with pumping. Another prize laden with wine and brandy is gone for Plymouth.
March 18.
London.
49. James Hickes to [Williamson]. Wrote to Mrs. Barrow Morton in Berwick, to second his desires about Lady Catherine Murray's business. Wants the four-sheet map, to draw a new scheme of the post roads. Sends such letters as have come to hand.
March 18.
Swansea.
50. Jo. Man to Williamson. Met two seamen belonging to the Robert of Dover, which was separated from the rest of the fleet in returning from Smyrna, and taken 10th December last by a French privateer, who kept the chief mate, boatswain, and a boy, and gave the rest of the crew the boat to go ashore. They landed at Malaga, where the Spaniards took their boat and all they had. They sailed thence in the Hannah of London; she was cast away near Kinsale in January, and all the lading and company lost except five men, and they came thence in the Jonathan of London, now in Milford Haven.
March 18.
Lyme.
51. Anth. Thorold to James Hickes. Four vessels arrived from Guernsey report the islands in good condition, and expecting the intended recruits. Three frigates were left with them, also four privateers, which are all gone cruising.
March 18.
West Cowes.
52. John Lysle to Williamson. The easterly winds have long prevented ships coming in. The Fortune of Ghent has arrived; she came from Nantes, stayed ten days in Conquet Road, left with seven French vessels laden with salt for the Grande Partie of France, but was plundered by a French privateer, which is gone to cruise in St. George's Channel. She reports 70 good ships of war and fireships in Brest, men daily impressed, even the clowns from the plough, and thinks an invasion is intended, either on England or Flanders. Hopes good care is taken about fortifying. Hears that the post office is to fall into Lord Arlington's hands at Lady-day. Asks the place of post-master for the Isle of Wight; would thus be able to give large intelligence, especially through foreigners who resort to the post. [1½ pages.]
March 18.
Southwold.
53. John Wickens to Williamson. A French privateer chased a small hoy bound northward, but she escaped into Barnard Sand. Begs to have news as Mr. Waynfleet had, and will write on all occasions.
March 18.
Aldborough.
54. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Has no news. The Oxford and Orange are still in Ousely Bay.
March 18.
Weymouth.
55. John Pocock to Williamson. Three out of several French masters kept prisoners in the town broke away, stole a small rowing boat, and got away; hopes no mischief to the town may follow; begs that this be not put in the Gazette.
March 18.
Newcastle.
56. Rich. Forster to Williamson. There are 10 coasters in port, but they will not stir till the convoys daily expected from Scotland come in.
March 18.
Dover.
57. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. An embargo is reported to be laid in France, on account of 1,000 Frenchmen sent to Holland, to fetch ships to join De Beaufort; it is also said that in France they cry up for peace. Capt. John Holmes, in the Lenox now called the Dover Castle, has taken a fine Holland vessel, laden with cables, which was going to join Beaufort's fleet. There is 43l. 14s. 2d. additional due for the men and tackle of the custom house shallop; the men must be paid, though the expected service was not done, but Lord [Arlington] must decide whether he will allow for tackling. This is beside the 12l. 5s. for men employed last month.
March 18.
Bristol.
58. Daniel Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Wants warrants for carriage of 300 loads of timber from Dean Forest to Lydney Pill, 160 loads to be charged on Gloucestershire, and 80 on Herefordshire; also warrants for 200 loads ready on the other side of the Severn. Gives the names of the justices to be inserted in the warrants. Asks if the anchors for the new ships are to be made at Bristol, that timely provision may be made. After much trouble, has procured a bill of exchange for the 1,000l. from Sir Thos. Langton, mayor of Bristol, on his brother, Joseph Langton of London, payable at two days' sight. Shall not receive one penny of it until Sir Thomas hears from his brother that the money is paid. Begs them to hasten payment, as he is very much straitened for want of money. [Adm. Paper, 1½ pages.]
March 19.
Harwich.
59. Silas Taylor to Williamson. The Duke of York is expected about noon. Several vessels came in on Saturday, fearing a storm. There is a report from Yarmouth that six or seven Dutch men-ofwar have been seen, and therefore the great collier fleet attempting this morning to go out was stopped.
March 19.
Plymouth.
60. John Clarke to James Hickes. Rear-Admiral Utbert, with eight frigates, has taken five or six Dutch and French prizes, laden with wine, brandy, and salt.
March 19.
Plymouth.
61. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. The merchants interested in the linen cloth ship report that the ship Fortune arrived from Morlaix 15th January, and was seized by the Vice-Admiral on the 16th; her cargo was bought in October last, all for Englishmen, but was seized by the French, and cost much trouble and charge to get it clear. Gives the names of six merchants of London, two of Exeter, two of Lyme, and three of Tiverton concerned. The vessel was bound for Ostend, but forced in by contrary weather. RearAdmiral Utbert, with six frigates, has taken eight prizes and brought in four; one sank at sea, and the others are in ports in Cornwall. Has sent Lord Arlington the examinations about the Greyhound of Flushing, taken by the Adventure, and overrun and sunk at sea by the Garland.
March 19.
Hull.
62. Luke Whittington to Williamson. By Lord Arlington's order, has quitted his seizure of the wines to the deputy appointed by the gentlemen interested. Hopes to have timely notice should anything of the kind happen in future.
March 19.
Edinburgh.
63. Rob. Mein to Williamson. Privateers are prospering; there are 120 in Scotland, who thrive well in their employment.
March 19.
Lynn.
64. Edw. Bodham to [Williamson]. Two frigates are convoying 20 ships, chiefly laden with beef, pork, wheat, peas, &c., for the Navy victualler, the rest with wheat, oats, &c., for London. All is peaceable; the Commissioners are sitting to determine grievances in poll bill assessments. The sloop taken was brought into a place 24 miles distant.
March 19.
11½ p.m.
65. Sir Philip Frowde to [Williamson]. Sends the letters that have come by the French mail, which was longer than usual.
March 19.
Tenby.
66. Fras. Malory to James Hickes. Has been from home a month about the wreck at Penbury. Hears of several wrecks of Dutchmen that pretend to be Hamburgers, laden with wine and brandy, and lying off Coldey Island. One is of 200 tons, with good force of men and arms, but pretends to be bound for Nieuport.
March 19. 67. Fras. Malory to Williamson. To the same effect.
March 19.
Whitehall.
68. Petition of the Lord Mayor, &c., of London to the King for leave to procure and import such quantities of Portland stone as shall be needed to rebuild churches, gates, and other public edifices and private houses about the city, there being none comparable to it for duration and beauty. With reference thereon to Hugh May, paymaster of the works, to give order for the bringing of such quantities of Portland stone as are needed for carrying on the public buildings in the city.
March 19. Entry of the above reference. [Ent. Book 18, p. 247.]
March 19.
Dover.
69. Warham Jemmett, sen., to Sir Philip Frowde. The packet boat was stopped at Calais till yesterday, because they wished no intelligence to be given of seamen shipped for Amsterdam to fetch the French King's ships.
March 19.
Whitehall.
70. Warrant to Sir Edw. Griffin, treasurer of the chamber, to deliver to Humphrey, Bishop of London, chief almoner, 33l. 6s. 8d. to be distributed in alms on Maunday Thursday and the ensuing days. [Copy.]
March 19.
Plymouth.
71. Sa. Langford to Sam. Pepys. Victualling of ships. The Golden Sun was ordered to pay and discharge her hired men and to press others, which has been done. The Gloucester, bound for Portsmouth for new masts, is waiting to convoy 30 or 40 merchant ships to that place. Asks to see the orders of the pursers, thereby to correct his accounts. Sends the names of 8 ships in harbour, which brought in four prizes; four more were left at sea parted by the weather, of which two came in yesterday. [Adm. Paper, 2 pages.]
March 19.
Lewes.
72. Sam. Rose to the Navy Comrs. Being informed that goods belonging to the King, and which had been either stolen or fraudulently bought, had been taken to the house of George Hodder of Brighthelmstone, who brought them from Portsmouth,—took an officer, searched the house, and found one new sail, not as yet put to the yard, and another in the house of Richard Marchant; seized both and deposited them in the storehouse. Hears that they belong to the Royal Sovereign, but the men who brought them home are now at Portsmouth. Asks whether the ship that brought them is subject to seizure, and what proceedings they will have against the men. His letters are to be sent to the Talbot in Southwark; the Lewes carrier is there every Thursday before 12 o'clock. [Adm. Paper.]
March 19.
Wapping.
73. Wm. Wood to Sir John Mennes. Asks for payment of a bill of 502l. for masts delivered into the stores by contract in July 1666. Has many other bills due for freight of ships amounting to 2,000l. Came with Capt. John Miller to request three days' time to make masts for a ship of his then employed as a man-of-war, which could not be granted, whereby he lost the taking of 150l. ready money. A letter was sent to Messrs. Shorter and Child from the Board, to send a parcel of New England masts to Chatham. The ship which brought them home was at Portsmouth, but was delivered at Wapping 50 days since; has one third part of the goods, and conceives it to be very hard that they should now be put to a new charge. [Adm. Paper.]
March 19.
Blackamoor pink.
74. Capt. John Barton to the Navy Comrs. Received order for convoying two Gottenburg ships to the Nore, but one of them being disabled by the weather, durst not venture out. His stay for them has caused his ship to miss the opportunity of being paid at the Nore; hopes they will be mindful of him. Five sail of Hollanders were in the bay the day before. [Adm. Paper.]
March 19.
Portsmouth.
75. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Thanks him for the sawyer's bills. The tickets for the men of the Princess will be welcomed when they come, but if it is not speedily, she will be gone to the Downs. Will send the book as soon as Mr. Salmon returns to the dockyard from Southampton. The names of the two fireships, bought of Capt. Hibbert, and which he believed would be ready by the next spring tide, are the Francis and Prosperous. Is forced to take the men from the former to fit the latter, being so weak of hands that he is ashamed to see work so long about, but it cannot be remedied. The last week's weather has laid up 40 or 50 of his best men, with fevers and distempers, which take them like a pleurisy in the side, when they are wantonly bled; more people die in or about the town than in the time of the plague. Blesses God that he and his family are in health; his clerk is yet alive, but it is doubtful how it will be with him. Two other fireships are ready, and ships named are cleaned and tallowed, and two days will carry one of them out of port. The three Gottenburg ships are still in harbour; cannot state how they have spent their time since they have been delivered of their goods. They might have been ready to sail for London long since, but presumes they have been hindered by the easterly winds, as one of them has been at Spithead these 14 or 20 days; has constantly supplied them with victuals, which he rather forbore to let them have, but having received their honours' order, shall supply each of the ships for 14 days. Sends an account of the contents of the Prosperous, for which he would not give 10l. [Adm. Paper, 2 pages.]
March 19.
Ordnance Office.
76. Edw. Sherburne to the Navy Comrs. Asks the names and number of the fire-ships intended to be fitted for the summer service, that the stores may be got ready for them, pursuant to a warrant from the Duke of York. [Adm. Paper.]
March 19.
Plymouth.
77. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Arrival of Admiral Utber with his squadron from the west, with five prizes laden with salt, wines, and brandies. The Dragon is left at sea, the Garland supposed to be at Falmouth. Three other prizes were taken, which are supposed to be gone to Ireland with their salt. Survey of ships needing repairs. Certain stores named in the custody of the Prize Comrs. are suspended from sale, for the use of the Navy. [Adm. Paper.] Annexing,
77. i. Certificate by George Jones and three others of defects found in six ships named on a survey made by them.
Plymouth, March 18, 1667.
77. ii. John Lanyon to Rear-Admiral Utber. Gives particulars of repairs required to ships mentioned.
Plymouth, March 19, 1667.
March 20.
Victualling Office.
78, 79. Two certificates by Thos. Lewis that John Pitt, purser of the St. George, had cleared his victualling account between 25th April and 20th Nov. 1666, and that there was no petty warrant within the time; that it does not appear at the office what extra money has been allowed to pursers, save what the victualler has paid to vessels of 70 men and under, which has been discontinued, and that he could not charge any ship therewith, nor give any allowance upon the purser's account. March 8 and 20. [Adm. Paper.]
March 20. Grant to John Ogilby of the sole printing of Homer's works, in the original, Æsop's Fables, and other books, in addition to his former privilege of printing similar books. [Ent. Book 23, pp. 416–7.]
March 20.
Whitehall.
The King to the Dean and Chapter of Exeter. Grants a dispensation to Dr. Hen. Byam, whose age and infirmities disable him from keeping residence as he ought to do, and requests that he may receive the emoluments of his place as formerly. [Ent. Book 27, p. 1a.]
March 20.
Norwich.
80. Thos. Corie to Dr. John Crofts, Dean of Norwich, Durham Yard, London. Thanks him for giving notice to the Duke of Monmouth's chaplain of Acworth, against whom fresh informations come in every day. Muddiford [Muddiman's] news are more pleasing than Mr. Williamson's: he reports that the treaty in France proceeds hopefully, under the Earl of St. Alban's, M. De Lionne, and Beuningen; that the East India Company is to send memoirs of their losses, and that we insist much on the isle of Poleron. The poll business is acted lamentably at Norwich.
March 20.
Norwich.
81. [Thos. Corie] to Williamson. Is glad to hear of his welfare from the Dean of Norwich; only two have died of the plague this week.
March 20.
[Norwich.]
82. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. There is no news in those parts.
March 20.
Weymouth.
83. John Pocock to James Hickes. The Eagle arriving from Guernsey and Jersey reports those islands in good condition.
March 20.
Yarmouth.
84. Rich. Bower to Williamson. Finding no one fit and willing to give the bailiffs the names of those who were spreading strange reports, called on bailiff Huntington and asked him what became of Wm. Downing, examined for reporting the Duke of Albemarle to be close prisoner in the Tower, and the trained bands disarmed; he made light of it, and said it was idle discourse, and every one examined had added to the first report; told him that both the first authors and the adders thereto should be prosecuted; informed him of the reports that Lord Townshend was put out of his deputy lieutenancy, because he would not pledge the Pope's health, and Mr. Howard put in; several are examined, who cast it from one to another, so that it rests nowhere. The poll bill in Yarmouth will not amount to 400l.; not one of the bailiffs, justices, aldermen, or common council are charged as high as a reputed gentleman; 60 light colliers are waiting for two convoys coming from the south.
March 20.
Dover.
85. J. C[arlisle] to Williamson. Capt. Holmes has sent in one prize laden with cables, pepper, linseed, &c., and another with oil, figs, and almonds.
March 20. 86. Sir Phil. Warwick to Williamson. The Lord Treasurer is dissatisfied that Sir James Bunce's bill is signed for 5,776l. whereas, in his report, he only allowed 3,694l. as fit to be charged on the English exchequer; also he thinks it much fitter that privy seals should be charged on the Exchequer generally, and not fixed on any certain place.
March 20.
Berwick.
87. M. Scott to Williamson. As Lord Arlington is to make new grants of office to all the postmasters of England at Lady-day, begs that before that of Edw. Smith, postmaster of Alnwick, is granted, 10l. a year out of the salary may be secured to the writer, till satisfied of a debt of 35l. due to him from Smith. Major-General Drummond passed through Berwick post on Monday last.
March [20]. 88. Geo. Browning to Williamson. Some persons by false reports try to deprive him of his place of postmaster at Exeter. Sir John Colleton has written to offer it to one Maudit; thinks it is because the writer opposed Sir John in the election at Dartmouth; requests prevention of this malice. Has left a certificate in his favour, signed by the principal persons of the county, with Mr. Richards, clerk of Williamson's office.
March 20. 89. "Advices," being notes from letters calendared above, also from the following:—
Holyhead, March 11: Mr. Leigh, after long waiting for a vessel to transport him, has hired a small vessel and will sail this evening, taking with him three packets that lie there, and one expected from Chester.
Portsmouth, March 19: The Warspite and other frigates are fitting out, and as they become ready, the seamen are paid off till 1st August last; yet they value not the loss of seven or eight months' pay, to run away to merchants' ships that offer great wages. [1¼ pages.]
March 20. 90. James Hickes to Williamson. Rich. Bradshaw of Manchester is applying for the place of postmaster there; on the death of Alex. Greene, the postmaster, in July last, the widow lost the employment because she refused to clear her husband's debts to the office, and Bradshaw took charge of the packets at her request. The applicants for the place then were Mrs. Halliwell, whose fatherin-law and husband were the first concerned in Manchester letters, Bradshaw, Mrs. Green, and Jeffry Aldcroft of Knutsford, who though living 10 miles off, got it on good certificates and security, and has managed it well, and with several hours less delay than before. Reasons why he should be allowed to retain the office, and why Bradshaw is unfit for it, and falsity of Mr. Bradshaw's objections against him. Lord [Arlington] and others concerned should grant no requests for places till they have heard the person in possession speak for himself. Mr. Aldcroft will come up if required. [2 pages.]
March 21.
Whitehall.
91. [H. Muddiman] to Geo. Powell, comptroller of Pembroke. News-letter. Particulars given in his letter of March 16. The Lord Mayor and officers entrusted to order the new buildings in London have taken away from the site on which some of the houses in Fleet Street stood as much as will make the part toward Ludgate as broad as the other part. The Judge of Admiralty is ordered to discharge the security that stood bound for privateers to bring in their men by March 20. On the 20th, the Duke of York went to Harwich, to see the state of preparation in that haven, and other places, and give orders necessary for its defence. In his journey he dined with the Duke of Albemarle at Newhall. A marriage is talked of at court between the Duke of Richmond and Madame Stuart, one of the Queen's maids of honour. Proceedings of the Pope. The embargo for seamen at Marseilles is to hold good till three men-of-war there are fitted. Matches are rumoured between Lord Morton and Lady Isabella Keith, Lord Fitzwilliam and Lady Arlington's sister, and Sir Richard Harrison's son, of Berkshire, and Madam Price, a maid of honour. Peace is generally expected, and Lord Holles and Hen. Coventry, nominated commissioners to treat, were sent for to attend the King at the Lord Treasurer's.
At Dover it was rumoured that some thousands of men were on the French coast, and vessels ready for their transport, and the stay of the mail for 21 days increased this jealousy; but it was only on account of seamen going to man the French King's ships built in Holland. The Commissioners for the treaty will be ready by Easter, and Breda is spoken of as the place. Barbadoes was rumoured to be lost, but without colour of truth. The commissions for examining accounts have passed the seal; names of the 18 commissioners. De Ruyter is earnest with the States to set forth their fleet, believing that the King will refuse all places for treaty except the Hague, and trusting the Haarlem print, which reports that the Earl of St. Alban's has broken off the treaty in France. They are so hot for war in France that they inspect noblemen's stores for arms and ammunition; 250 families of Valenciennes and Douay are allowed to live in France, in order to bring in their manufacture of Holland cloth and camlet. [3 pages.]
March 21.
Truro.
92. Hugh Acland to Williamson. One of the Dutch prizes brought into St. Ives is of 300 tons and 14 guns, laden with salt, but so leaky that she has to be brought on shore and her goods landed; the other is of 250 tons and 4 guns; several others have been taken, and more would have been, had not our frigates wanted men. A Yarmouth vessel has been taken near Pendennis Castle, laden with Welsh coal.
March 21.
Portsmouth.
93. Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Dragon has taken two Holland wine prizes, and sent them into Southampton.
March 21.
Gresham House, London.
94. Act of the Common Council of London, deciding as they were ordained to do by Act of Parliament for the rebuilding of London, as to which shall be accounted bye lanes, which streets or lanes of note, and which high and principal streets; all that are not mentioned as high and principal streets to be hereafter deemed streets and lanes of note; giving a list of 214 streets, lanes, alleys, courts, &c., which are to be considered streets of note, and six high and principal streets. [Printed, 2 pages.]
March 21.
Newcastle.
95. Rich. Forster to Williamson. On Wednesday sailed the whole fleet of laden colliers, with those that came from Scotland under convoy of Capt. Wetwyng of the Tiger,—which has lost most of her masts in a sudden gust of wind,—and four more good frigates.
March 21.
Sunderland.
96. Ben. Francis to Williamson. To-day 300 sail of laden colliers, 40 of which went out from Sunderland, have passed southward, with their convoy.
March 21.
Scarborough Castle.
97. Pe. Hawkins to Williamson. Yesterday 120 laden colliers, with three men-of-war for convoy, passed from the north; no enemy's ships have been heard of for three or four weeks.
March 21.
Dover.
98. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Particulars of vessels passing. The Lenox alias Dover Castle has come in without a prize.
March 21. 99. Certificate by Dr. Thos. Lamplugh, principal of Alban Hall, and 13 other canons, doctors, masters of art, &c., to the good conduct, learning, and conformity to the church of Wm. Rolfe, M.A. fellow of New College, Oxford. [Latin.]
March 21.
Harwich.
100. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Yesterday, at 5 p.m., the Duke of York arrived, and visited the King's house and yard, attended by several persons of quality, especially Sir Bernard De Gomme, who had taken pains with the fortifications; he then went into the writer's small apartment in the yard, and stayed till he went on board his yacht; to-day he has walked all about the town and places adjacent, and was so fresh as to tire others with his morning's walk, in spite of his riding and walking yesterday: 60 or 80 of the collier fleet have sailed for Newcastle, under convoy of the Oxford and Orange, the coast being reported clear. Some Dutch prisoners taken by the Pearl have escaped by Ipswich carelessness, but four or five are retaken.
March 21.
Aldborough.
101. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Particulars of vessels sailing. The coast is clear of pickeroons.
[March 21.] 102. Warrant for a grant to Algernon Peyton, of Doddington, Isle of Ely, of the dignity of a baronet, with remainder to his brothers Thomas and Henry; also for a discharge of the 1,095l. usually paid for that dignity. [Draft.]
March 21. 103. Edw. Silvester to the Navy Comrs. Begs that his three bills for anchors may be rated at a reasonable price, that so the work may go on with cheerfulness. [Adm. Paper.]
March 21.
Gravesend.
104. Richard Elkin to Sam. Pepys. Sends an account of the Eagle's petty warrant. Arrival of three ships named in the Hope. [Adm. Paper.]
March 21.
Spithead.
105. Theo. Scott, master of the Golden Sun, to the Navy Comrs. Receiving their order to hasten with the Golden Lion to Portsmouth, has kept on board ship to keep the company, pressed with much hazard and difficulty, from running away; particulars of various attempts to sail with the fleet to Portsmouth. [Adm. Paper.]
March 22.
Plymouth.
106. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. Departure of four ships named for Portsmouth with their convoys. The Greenwich and two others are waiting a fair wind. The Garland came into Catwater, having lost her false keel. Mr. Lanyon and himself are upon such terms that the service is neglected; he denies him an account of the expenses of several ships, and what sails, cordage, &c., have been received of the several boatswains, and for which no credit is given to His Majesty. Desires their order thereon. [Adm. Paper.]
March 22.
Conpill.
107. Daniel Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Has treated with the owners about iron mine as ballast for the St. David. They demanded 4s. 6d. for 12 bushels, which will come to 20l., and it will cost 1s. per ton for water carriage to the ship's side. The ballast or iron mine will yield the same price at any place, water carriage excepted, and is as heavy as iron itself. Desires orders thereon, hoping to launch the next spring tide. Urges the supply of money promised for this service. [Adm. Paper.]
March 22. Privy seal to Sir James Bunce for 5,776l., for services to the King when beyond seas. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 418.]
March 22. Warrant for creating Richard Hastings a baronet. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 418.]
March 22. Privy seal for 6,000l. to Lord Holles and Hen. Coventry, in advance for their equipage, &c., in their intended negotiation of the treaty at Breda. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 418.]
March 22. Pass for Henry Howard into France. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 418.]
[March 22.]
Whitehall.
108. Warrant for a grant of a pension of 200l. a year to Dr. John Troutbeck, from the tenths of the clergy in the diocese of Lincoln. Annexing,
108. i. Note for Mr. Williamson that Dr. Troutbeck's requests are a patent for 200l. a year for 21 years, or for life, from July 9, 1660, to be paid half-yearly by the receiver of the tenths of Lincolnshire, the arrears to be first paid.
March 22. Entry of the above warrant. [Ent. Book 23, p. 419.]
March 22. 109. Minute of the above warrant.
March 22. 110. "Advices" being notes from letters calendared above, and also from the following:—
Jersey, Mar. 2: The French are victualling and rigging at Brest, and send the vessels when fit to Rochelle, where 25,000 landsmen will soon be ready.
Bridlington, March 18: The Guernsey is gone for Tynemouth where the laden fleet remains; the Hampshire, with 10 sail, passed by the Humber, and left her prize in Hull. [2½ pages.]
March 22.
Dartmouth.
111. Owen Lindsey to Williamson. Two Dartmouth vessels have arrived safely from Lisbon, and saw one enemy, a French man-ofwar, which chased them a whole afternoon.
March 22.
Plymouth Fort.
112. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Wishes Lord Arlington to be spoken to about the salary for himself, Sir Thos. Carey and Sir John Knight, the commissioners general, as the year is expired and there is money in the Treasurer's hands; understands the other commissioners are to be paid by the Lords Commissioners for Prizes. Begs continuance of office for the postmaster there; no man is fitter for the place, though some are trying to supplant him. A Genoese ship laden with French salt, bound for Hamburg, was seized last year and brought into port as a prize, but was cleared; some friends of his, merchants of Portsmouth, then lent the master 300l., which they may lose, unless they can get permission to land the salt as security; begs a licence therefor, for which a reasonable gratuity will be given. The Forester has brought in an Amsterdam salt prize. Departure of vessels.
March 22.
Plymouth.
113. John Clarke to James Hickes. Particulars of vessels departing and in harbour. The Garland has taken an Amsterdam salt prize of 400 tons, after fighting all night. She then saw a French man-of-war of 50 guns, but the Garland's captain, having fitted his prize as a fire-ship, the French captain believed it to be a fire-ship, and bore away.
March 22. 114. John Clarke to Williamson. To the same effect.
March 22.
Plymouth.
115. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. The Garland has brought in an Amsterdam prize of 12 guns and 250 men, after a stout fight, wherein the Amsterdamer blew up her own round house, thereby wounding several of her men; she is much disabled and torn. The Garland has three men killed, and eight or nine wounded. Several vessels have gone to Portsmouth to be repaired.
March 22.
Whitehall.
116. Order in Council granting the petition of Nich. Warren, Phil. Jegon, and Hum. Graves, merchants of London, for leave to unlade in the port of London, on payment of all custom and duties, the French merchandises laden on the St. Mary of Dieppe; a pass was granted by the Duke of York to the Earl of St. Alban's to bring in French commodities on the said vessel, some months before the proclamation probibiting their import: relying on this pass, they freighted the ship with wines, paper, canvas, &c., for the said Earl and themselves, but by the French King's embargo on all ships, and by contrary winds, it has been detained. With notes concerning the landing of the said goods.
March 22.
Southwold.
117. John Wickens to Williamson. Passage of collier fleets; one of the vessels is aground on the Barnet Sand, but it is hoped she will get off.
March 22.
Hull.
118. Chas. Whittington to Williamson. His father has set out for London. Passage of the collier fleet, and the ships from Scotland. The Tiger with 20 sail is in the Humber. The Ruby and Eagle stay at Newcastle, to convoy 30 sail not yet laden.
March 22.
Swansea.
119. Jo. Man to Williamson, A Hamburg vessel was cast ashore in Laugherne Marsh, Carmarthenshire, laden with salt, which was lost, but some of the wine saved, also all the men. Another vessel in Tenby Road pretends to be of Hamburg, but is suspected to be Dutch.
March 22.
Pembroke.
120. Fras. Malory to Williamson. Wreck of a Hamburger laden with French wines and brandy, at Pendine, 12 miles distant.
March 22.
Lynn.
121. Edw. Bodham to [Williamson]. Arrival of the collier fleet, with 20 ships from Scotland and 3 frigates as convoy. They have seen no enemy. A Lynn vessel bound for London, laden with oats, has been taken by a Dutch privateer, being parted from the other ships with which she had sailed.
March 22. 122. Sir P. Warwick to Williamson. Recommends a poor man, the son of a woman who ventured and suffered in carrying letters of much importance during the war, and had a pension of 40l. for life; the King promised her to settle somewhat on her son. Endorsed "Welsh Besse's son."
March 22.
Whitehall.
123. Warrant to the Comrs. of Prizes to order the sale of the Dolphin of Dieppe, now in the Thames, to Lord Widdrington, on a fair appraisement, he being obliged to bring timber into the King's yards.
March 23. Indemnity to George Fawcet, for corresponding with the fanatics and others disaffected to the King and government. Minute. [Ent. Book 24, p. 36.]
March 23. Warrant to the Farmers of Customs for unlading 120 pipes of Canary wine, for the Spanish ambassadors. Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 419.]
March 23.
Weymouth.
124. Chr. Sawtell to Edm. Sawtell, Post Office, London. The Dover privateer has come in without a prize, her commission being out. Capt. Abbott, of Weymouth, in his privateer the Hopeful Providence, has brought in a prize, a Guernsey vessel, which had been taken by a French man-of-war, and carried into a French harbour, whence the captain recovered it. With note from [Hickes to Williamson] that he sends him this letter at Mr. Sawtell's request, notwithstanding Sawtell's frequent correspondence with Mr. Muddiman.
March 23.
Weymouth.
125. John Pocock to James Hickes. Capture by the Hopeful Providence of a prize in Brehack harbour, near Morlaix; she proved to be a Jersey vessel, laden with coals from Deal, which was taken two days before by a French man-of-war.
March 23.
Harwich.
126. Silas Taylor to Williamson. Whispers privately that as his prize employment will signify little in case of peace, he wishes to be engaged about the packet boat, which it is believed will be settled at Harwich instead of at Dover. Can give advantageous arguments if needful.
March 23.
Harwich.
127. Silas Taylor to Williamson. The Duke of York left yesterday, early in the morning, and hopes to reach Whitehall to day. He was much pleased with the situation of the tower; it is to be fortified, as well as Landguard, which he visited; he also took pains to see Beacon Hill. The weather was good all the time he was there. The colliers from the Thames are at anchor in Ousely Bay.
March 23.
Bristol.
128. Sir Thos. Langton, mayor of Bristol, to Williamson. Begs directions from Lord Arlington about three poor sickly Frenchmen, sent over prisoners from Barbadoes.
March 23.
York.
129. Thos. Waade to Williamson. On Wednesday 200 sail of colliers passed the port [Whitby] with three convoys, and on the next day 25 sail, supposed to be the Scotch fleet. A strong wind is thought to have driven the coal fleet into the Humber. His father Mascall is ill and unable to write.
March 23.
Aldborough.
130. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Passage of light colliers northwards; 100 laden ones are still in Ousely Bay.
March 23.
Yarmouth.
131. Rich. Bower to Williamson. Passage of light and laden colliers. The Portsmouth has brought in a Dutch caper, which proves to be a West country vessel, taken last year; the men are ashore and put in prison; also a sloop, which is an Ostender, laden with lead from Hull for Ostend. Hears that the King has given Prince Rupert all prize goods that are embezzled; will come to London to obtain reimbursement of the moneys he is out.
March 23.
Chester.
132. Ma. Anderton to Williamson. At Chester and Liverpool 500 Irish cattle have been landed, but all seized; the justices are resolved utterly to ruin the poor Irishmen that imported them, and what seems strange, some justices, after the cattle are forfeited and the forfeiture paid, disturb the second buyer and seize the cattle again. Would pay him well for advice and assistance for these poor Irish. Proclamations have been issued in Ireland, appointing granaries in several parts of the kingdom for wheat and oatmeal, and the Lord Lieutenant allows half of the two last subsidies to be paid in wheat and oatmeal. Another proclamation was issued for publishing the last Act of Parliament, for encouraging the linen trade of the kingdom. Capt. Wright, sailing with a 300 ton vessel for Virginia, was deserted at Galloway by 12 of his men, and obliged to delay his voyage. The Dartmouth waits the Lord Lieutenant's orders at Kinsale. Duallagh's head is now on St. James's Gate, Dublin.
March 23.
Letter Office.
133. James Hickes to Williamson. Sends six Irish packets, of 18, 23, and 26 February and 2, 5, and 9 March, which have come to hand this morning.
March 23. 134. Sir Phil. Warwick to [Williamson]. Sends a draft of a warrant for moneys required, which the King must sign for the privy seal. Will then endeavour the assignment, having interposed in the business by borrowing; is interested in it, both as caring for the work and desiring to serve him [Williamson]. [Draft.] Prefixing,
134. i. Warrant to pay to Capt. George Wharton 858l. 5s., for expenses of the Ordnance Comrs. in pulling down, according to order, houses about the Tower, which subjected it to danger from fire, and weakened the defences.
March 23.
Whitehall.
135. Petition of Edward Smith and Edmund Lee, merchants of London, to the King. Their vessel, the Mary of Frederickstadt, laden with Norway timber, was seized by Capt. Elliott of the Revenge, notwithstanding that she had a pass from the Duke of York, and made into a fire-ship; its restoration was ordered but not performed, and they hear it is lost. Beg satisfaction in money or in prize ships for its value, 1,100l. With reference thereon to the Navy Comrs., and their report, March 11, 1667, recommending payment of 809l. 8s. as compensation. [Copy.]
March 23. Entry of the above reference. [Ent. Book 18, p. 247.]
March 23.
Oxford.
136. Certificate by Dr. John Fell, vice-chancellor of Oxford, that Wm. Rolfe, M.A., is reputed in that place a worthy and ingenious person. With note by Humphrey Bishop of London, April 8, 1667, that for his learning and good conversation, he is worthy to be preferred to an ecclesiastical benefice.
March 23.
Keynsham.
137. Sir Thos. Bridges to Williamson. In executing Lord Arlington's commands, finds the poll money in those parts will amount to a much vaster sum than was conceived, and would be larger still but for some brethren of a new separation, who court an airy popularity by decrying taxes and conniving at the bold practices of Nonconformists, though at the expense of King and kingdom's interest, in these sad times of hazard. Will acquaint him with their practices, on coming to London in a fortnight.
March 23.
Ipswich.
138. Andrew Crawley to Sam. Pepys. Sends an account of ships victualled. Cannot fulfil his orders, on account of the neglect of pursers in not supplying him with certificates for extra money, or accounts of the beginning and ending of their victuals. [Adm. Paper.]
March 23.
Plymouth.
139. S. Langford to Sam. Pepys. Sends his accounts. Explains mistakes made therein by trusting to the indents. Though the commanders of ships complain of the want of their complement of men, yet the ships are victualled for their full proportion, so that, unless their honours have some means above the muster masters' accounts and the pursers' books to do His Majesty right, there is much abuse done. The accounts might as well be left to the pursers as the muster master there; his conduct disparages the power that appoints him. [Adm. Paper.]
March 23. 140. Thos. Lloyd, secretary to the Lords Commissioners of Prizes, to Sir Wm. Penn. The Commissioners have ordered the delivery of the sailcloth in the Liefde of Stralsund at Plymouth to the Navy Comrs.' agent, provided they take it and pay all charges within 14 days. The Prize Comrs. desire that they will give their agent instructions for the future as to adjusting the value of commodities. Shall insert a clause in their order of delivery, to prevent the lapse of time, &c., for the future. Sends an account of wines, &c. delivered to the Navy. [Adm. Paper.]
March 24.
Plymouth.
141. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Departure of RearAdmiral Utber with the big ships for Portsmouth. Particulars of ships remaining to be cleaned, repaired, &c. [Adm. Paper.]
March 24.
Dublin.
142. Sir N. Armorer to Williamson. Has returned from Duncannon from hunting the Tories, who robbed an honest Quaker of his acquaintance, within four miles of the town where the judges were sitting at assize. They were 30 in number; has taken seven, and has them in durance base, whence they are only likely to remove to the gallows. The Duke [of Ormond] has the gout; would offer no business to him, to get more than ever he will gain by that petition. Hopes a reference to the Lords Commissioners of Prizes there, who know well the merits of the cause.
March 24.
Falmouth.
143. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. Is chosen by the Pollmoney Commissioners assessor for that town and parish. It causes much complaint that wives and children under 16 years, except poor children, are to pay, there being no precedent for both man and wife to pay. The Greenwich has taken two Dutch salt prizes into St. Ives. A Nieuport vessel reports that an English privateer, near the French coast, took from her her flag, some provision, and cordage.
March 24.
Berwick.
144. M. Scott to Williamson. All is quiet; 13 ships have passed from Scotland southward.
March 24.
Portsmouth.
145. Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. Three frigates have sailed to convoy several merchant ships for the Downs, some laden with naval stores. The Gloucester has brought in several merchant ships from Plymouth, bound for the Thames.