|
Aug. 26.
Portsmouth Dockyard. |
1. Comrs. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The Friez and has
set sail, under convoy of the Blackamoor pink. The mast ship has
not yet arrived. The English canvas sent in by Col. Reymes does
not answer the pattern. Has before stated that the wharfs are
not in a condition to lay ordnance upon. A considerable part of
the fleet may be expected in port this winter, requiring all expedition in their dispatch; but if deprived of the means, the King's work
cannot be done. There are but the Mars, Francis, and one old
broken down vessel to receive all that is to be put on shore out of
the ships, as guns, &c. Knows not what will be done if the
Mars is taken away. Has sent a man to Southampton to inquire
about the rosin. Particulars of tallow and rosin in store. [Adm.
Paper, 3 pages.] |
Aug. 26.
Plymouth. |
2. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. The Orange has sailed
into the Sound to await convoy. Four prizes are brought into
Falmouth by the Constant Warwick and Victory. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 26.
Portsmouth. |
3. Robt. Mills to James Hickes. Thanks for his letters; has
no news. |
Aug. 26.
Falmouth. |
4. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. A Welsh coal vessel came in
with 10 or 16 more bound for the East, and reports the coast clear of
men-of-war. The Hawk has come in from the Isle of Wight, as
convoy to vessels for Plymouth, Fowey, and Falmouth. |
Aug. 26.
Bridlington. |
5. John Bower to James Hickes. On Friday last the Fountain
frigate sailed by, with 100 colliers; the great fleet of 200 sail is off
Flamborough Head, moving slowly, the wind being calm. No
enemies appeared on the coast last week. |
Aug. 26.
St. James's. |
6. Sir Wm. Coventry to Lord Arlington. The Prince and Duke
of Albemarle have requested the return of the Seven Stars, a prize
of wine and brandy brought into the river, but which they intended
to have kept in the fleet for beverage. If the King consent, begs an
order to that effect to the Navy Comrs. |
Aug. 26.
Venice. |
7. Sir Bernard Gascoigne to Lord Arlington. Rejoices to hear of
the defeat of the Hollanders, when bragging that our ships durst not
come out; hopes to see the great enemy, the French, mortified, and
the Hollanders convinced how little reliance is to be placed on them.
Hopes Spain, Holland, and England will unite to defend Flanders
against France. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 26. |
8. Sir Bernard Gascoigne to Williamson. To the same effect. |
Aug. 26.
Dover. |
9. Jo. Carlisle to Williamson. Trump and seven Holland captains
are disbanded, and their fleet is out; Trump's brother is fled to
Antwerp. Hopes not to have to come to London. Capt. Massey
will swear that Edy, clerk to the Commissioners, would have suborned
him to accuse the writer falsely. |
Aug. 26.
Royal Charles, Sole Bay. |
10. Sir Thos. Clifford to Williamson. Has given his letters and
extracts to the Prince and General. Refers him for news to his
letter to Lord Arlington. |
Aug. 26.
Putney Park. |
11. N. Oudart to Williamson, Having served God in the forenoon by doing his vicegerent's work, will go to his church duty
cheerily, with the excellent Countess; will come at once, if there be
occasion for the speedy use of Dutch and English. Hopes Dr. Busby
will not stop his leases filling up four or five years out of 30 elapsed
by absence on the King's service. The Dean is nobly for him. |
Aug. 26.
Royal Charles. |
12. Ja. Reade to Williamson. Fifty colliers are in sight; hopes
there will be more coming, seasonably for the fleet; it is in good
health; in ten days only six men from the Royal Charles have been
set ashore sick; all long to be out at sea, when beer and water come. |
Aug. 26.
Whitehall. |
13. Petition of Sir John Mennes to the King, for a grant of such
moneys as he may discover to remain due to the Crown in the duchy
of Lancaster, from Jan. 1643 to June 1659; also for a lease of
Hylin's Park, Staffordshire, belonging to the said duchy, and for the
keepership thereof, if proved to be void by the forfeiture of Gregory
Walkelett, who purchased it from the usurped powers, and has destroyed the deer, felled the timber, and ploughed the soil. Is still
thousands of pounds in debt, by raising forces, buying arms and
holding correspondence for the service of the late King, and His
Majesty. With reference thereon to Sir Thos. Ingram, chancellor of
the duchy and his report, Nov. 16, in favour of a grant of the whole
of the discovered moneys up to a certain amount, as the discovery
will be a great charge and trouble, and also in favour of the requested lease of Hylin's Park, as the rent proposed by the petitioner of
7l. 13s. 4d. will be rather more than is now received; the improved
value is 85l. 12s. Endorsed "Sir John Heath." |
| Aug. 26. |
Entry of the above reference. [Ent. Book 18, p. 219.] |
Aug. 26.
Dublin. |
14. E. D. to his brother in Christ. Gives thanks for their
faith and courage in bearing their testimony against the evil of
the times; exhorts them to fidelity; deliverance will come and
is even at the door. Private affairs. [Copy by Capt. Grice.] |
Aug. 27.
Truro. |
15. Hugh Acland to Williamson. Being in a remote part, has
little intelligence; the thanksgiving was solemnly kept, with great
rejoicing, and bonfires in the evening. |
Aug. 27.
Pembroke. |
16. Fras. Malory to Williamson. Will visit his old acquaintance
and tell Mr. Hickes who is fittest for the post office; they are worse
than before, since they hear that Lord Arlington does not come in
till Midsummer. |
| Aug. 27. |
17. Fras. Malory to James Hickes. To the same effect. |
| Aug. 27. |
18. Petition of Roger Tows, prisoner in the Gatehouse, Westminster, to Lord Arlington, for release; was in drink when he
spoke the words of which he is accused, and is ignorant what he
said; but will take the Oaths of Supremacy and Allegiance; is too
poor to subsist or pay fees in prison. |
| Aug. ? |
19. Petition of Elianor, wife of Roger Tows, prisoner in the
Gatehouse, Westminster, to Lord Arlington, for her husband's release. He was always reputed a loyal subject, and would abhor
to do anything prejudicial to King and government, unless through
the imperfection of intemperance; they are very poor and unable
to raise moneys to subsist, much less to satisfy the expectations of
fees. Annexing, |
19. i. Warrant from Lord Arlington to the keeper of the Gatehouse to take Roger Tows into safe custody. [Copy.]
Whitehall, July 6, 1666. |
Aug. 27.
Whitehall. |
20. Petition of Sir Thos. Daniel to the King, for a grant for
31 years, on rent of 20s., of the rent of 100l. reserved on a grant to
Sir John Mennes and Rob. Philipps of the late priory and manor of
Cannington, co. Somerset, on failure of heirs male of Edw. Rogers;
also, for a grant in reversion for 24 years, on rent of 10s., of the rent of
40l. due from Sir Rob. Johnson, for St. John's Woods, Chippenwickham, co. Bucks. With reference thereon to the Lord Treasurer. |
| Aug. 27. |
Entry of the above reference. [Ent. Book 18, p. 220.] |
Aug. 27.
Walmer. |
21. Ri. Watts to Williamson. Has shown the Gazettes to Sir
Edw. Monins and other gentlemen with him, who have no other
way of intelligence, now that Dover and Sandwich are visited.
Some say the Dutch are out with 80 sail, some that they cannot
get seamen; the distemper increases in Dover and Sandwich, has
crept again into Canterbury, and is reported very hot in Maidstone;
seven died yesterday at Deal; several houses broke out last week,
and only 16 houses have not had it, except those which were shut
up, but it is more favourable; formerly it scarcely left one in a house;
now most live and have sores. |
Aug. 27.
Swansea. |
22. Jo. Man to Williamson. Masters of vessels from other ports
report the universal joy at the late victories over the Dutch, as
shown on the thanksgiving day. |
Aug. 27.
Pendennis. |
23. Fras. Bellott to Williamson. The Hawk has come in with
18 small vessels from Wales, bound for Penzance; she sprang a leak
and had to come on shore for repairs. |
Aug. 27.
Whitehall. |
24, 25. Two blank warrants to a messenger of the chamber for
apprehension of persons not named. |
| Aug. 27. |
26. Agreement between Pet. H. brewer and Th. R., vintner,
and Stephen Hayre, whereby the latter is pledged to make good to
the two former 30l., in case they should be sued on a bond in which
they are bound for him. Endorsed with some figures and "A discourse on sanctification," in the same hand, partly in short hand.
Prefixing, |
|
26. i. Request by Edw. Boote, rector of the parish church of
Blackwell, co. Derby, to John Bishop of Coventry and
Lichfield, to admit on his presentation Sam. Nowell to
the vicarage of the said parish church of Blackwell, void
by death of Wm. Wilmore. [Latin.] Aug. 20, 1662. |
Aug. 27.
Lyme. |
27. Anth. Thorold to James Hickes. The Martin has brought in
vessels from Plymouth, one laden with tobacco and sugar, and is to
return westwards, with colliers and others. Next year's mayor is
chosen, an ancient, loyal magistrate. |
Aug. 27.
Weymouth. |
28. John Pocock to James Hickes. The Deptford reports the
sea free from pickeroons; on the 25th guns were fired south-west of
Portland, but no sail discovered. |
Aug. 27.
West Cowes. |
29. John Lysle to Williamson. The cook on board the St. Michael
of Bruges, brought in prize by the Hawk ketch, stabbed one of the
men in a quarrel, and then leaped overboard and drowned himself.
Capt. Alex. Colepeper, the vice-admiral's deputy, is very careful in
the inquest. |
Aug. 27.
Yarmouth. |
30. Rich. Bower to Williamson. There have been 200 sick
and wounded men brought in from the fleet; 120 laden colliers
have arrived without convoy from Newcastle, and report 400 more
ready to sail. The troopers have pressed both masters and men. |
Aug. 27.
Lynn. |
31. Edw. Bodham to Williamson. Lord Byron's troop of horse
came into town, and is gone to lie about the coast towns. Lord
Mandeville's troop has come in, and is to stay some time. A collier
from Sunderland reports that he came with 100 sail without convoy;
four left the rest at Spurn for Lynn, when two sloops put two of
them ashore, carried off one, and the other escaped by running
in among the sands. A fleet of light colliers lies at Lynn, but
dares not sail without convoy, till the coast is clear of privateers. |
Aug. 27.
Aldborough. |
32. Rich. Browne to Williamson. Passage of collier vessels
southward. The fleet lies still in Southwold Bay, in great want of
beer and water. Dispatched off an express sent by Lord Arlington
to the generals, who held a council of war next morning. |
Aug. 27.
Sole Bay. |
33. Prince Rupert to the King. Refers to Col. Wm. Legg for
information of the fleet. The Dutch captain says it is against their
principles to engage themselves in the Channel, and thinks they will
be at Schoonfeld, before the Wielings, where they usually make their
rendezvous. Hopes to know about it to-morrow, by which time five
fire-ships, now fitting in the roads will be ready, and will make up
the number to 11. The colliers are hourly expected for a recruit of
seamen. If the Dutch keep their station, a few days will decide the
business. [1½
pages.] |
Aug. 27.
Royal Charles, Sole Bay. |
34. Prince Rupert and the Duke of Albemarle to the King. The
Dutch fleet of 80 sail was seen last night off the Wildings, and is
supposed to design a western course, to join the French fleet, in
which case a month or more will be needed to bring them back again.
Complain of the want of supplies, in spite of repeated importunities.
The demands are answered by accounts from Mr. Pepys of what has
been sent to the fleet, which will not satisfy the ships, unless the
provisions could be found. Hope to be credited as to their wants.
being upon the place. Have not a month's provision of beer, yet
Sir Wm. Coventry assures the ministers that they are supplied till
Oct. 3; unless this is quickened, they will have to return home too
soon. The deceit in gauging beer is 20 gallons a butt, and there is
great loss by leakage, stinking beer, casks staved, supply of lesser
vessels, &c. Want provisions according to their own computation,
not Sir Wm. Coventry's, to last to the end of October, and all the
ships and fire-ships that can be sent. Orders should be sent into
Devonshire, Cornwall, Dorsetshire, and Somersetshire, to press seamen to be sent to Dartmouth, whence vessels will fetch them;
stores of all sorts should be laid in at Dover, Portsmouth, Dartmouth, Plymouth, or other convenient ports, that they may not
spend faster than they can be supplied. Will need all the strength
and assistance that can be given, to contend with the united powers
of both those nations, but with it, hope to return good accounts of
this great expedition. [3 pages.] |
Aug. 27.
Chatham. |
35. John Ruffhead, anchorsmith, to [Sam Pepys]. Has delivered
in ironwork to the value of 6,000l. during the last year, and only
received 800l.; has not a chaldron of coals in his three shops but
what are borrowed, and only five tons of iron; the poor have been
so long unpaid that they are ready to starve, and others who have
supplied ironwork in great quantities are utterly disabled for want of
money; begs an imprest of 700l. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 27.
Victualling Yard. |
36. Thos. Lewis to the Navy Comrs. Has examined the books
of the office, and can find no money due to the purser of the Sapphire. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 27.
Edwinstow. |
37. John Russell to the Navy Comrs. Cannot find men willing
to cut the timber into plank without ready money; wants money to
pay for the repairs of the Adam and Eve; the last bill for 200l. has
not yet been paid by Mr. Fenn; has laden the Black Dog with
plank, and sent her down to Althorpe; timber cannot safely be
floated down to Hull in floats, it is better for hoys to fetch it
from Stockwith; requests a warrant for John Huntington to be
master of the Adam and Eve. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 27.
Antwerp. |
38. Aphara Behn to Mr. Halsall. Has been unable to do anything yet, Mr. Nipho and Sir Anthony [Des Marces] assist her, but
can witness that it is a hard matter; dares not for her life go to
Holland. On the burning of these ships, they have sent for their
troops back from Germany. Trump and his brother are dismissed
from office, and their sister degraded; there is great desolation at
Amsterdam, and one of the states is turned out of the council. Hopes
soon to settle a way of correspondence with the rogue, who expresses
great desire to serve. Complains of the expensiveness of the place,
and begs for money; has been forced to pawn a ring to pay her
messengers. With a key to the cypher used subsequently in the
correspondence. [2½
pages.] |
Aug. 28./Sept. 7.
Rotterdam. |
39. [Wm. Scott to Aphara Behn]. Dares say little lest his letter
should miscarry, there being a general expectation of something
breaking out; wishes to meet her, but it must not be at the Hague.
Wants her cypher, if it could be sent by a safe hand. [2 pages]. |
Aug. 28.
London. |
40. Thos. Tyte to Sir Wm. Batten. Captain James Blake has sold
the Constant John for 700l., having a letter of attorney from the
rest of the owners for the receipt of the same; begs that the warrant may not be perfected until further orders, he holding only one
sixteenth part. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 28.
Navy Office. |
41. Warrant from the Navy Comrs. to Thos. Dalmahoy, deputylieutenant, and others Justices of the Peace for Surrey, to assist Sir
Wm. Warren and Wm. Castell in removing obstructions to the carriage of timber upon the River Wye, alias Guildford River, which is
not yet done, though the Earl of St. Alban's, Sir Edw. Turner
speaker, and others have interested themselves in the management of
the river, and become principal proprietors thereof. [Adm. Paper,
damaged.] |
Aug. 28.
Newcastle. |
42. Hum. Pibus to Sir John Mennes. The Flying Greyhound has
set sail with an able master and mate on board; for ballast, she has
put two keels of coal, which can be disposed of at the best price at
Harwich. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 28.
Portsmouth Dockyard. |
43. Comr. Thos Middleton to Sam. Pepys. The mast ship has arrived; her port is too small for the masts ordered; only two of 27
inches will go in her; the ship is too old and rotten to bear enlarging; asks directions; she might be fit for the Plymouth design.
[Adm. Paper, 2 pages.] |
Aug. 28.
Little Manor, near Upton, Worcestershire. |
44. Dan. Furzer to the Navy Comrs. Is setting forward the
building of the new third-rate ship; found at Blackmoor Park a
parcel of good four inch plank; has agreed for it to be delivered in
Bristol River, and none else to have any of it; refers the agreement
for price to Mr. Shirley and Mr. Blackborow. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 28.
Plymouth. |
45. Thos. Waltham to the Navy Comrs. The frigate belonging
to Sir Thos. Morgan, governor of Jersey, sent by him to cruise along
the coast of Bretagne to Brest, has engaged with a Dutch caper of
18 guns, killed 8 men and wounded 16, but was chased by another
caper into Plymouth harbour; the Orange is still in the Sound;
musters cannot conveniently be taken of frigates arriving in the
Sound without a boat appointed for the service. Begs that his
salary and charges from Nov. 11, 1665, may be ordered him. [Adm.
Paper.] |
| Aug. 28. |
46. Agreement between the Navy Comrs. and Fras. Baylie, of
Bristol, shipwright, for the building of a frigate, length by the keel
122 feet, breadth 38 feet, depth 16 feet,—the said ship with 300
men's provision for six months, and all her guns on board, not to
draw above 17½ feet water abaft, and 16 feet 4 inches before,—at the
rate of 7l. per ton; 1,750l. to be paid in advance. [Adm. Paper,
11 sheets.] |
| Aug. 28. |
47. Account between [the Navy Comrs.] and Edw. Gray for New
England and Gottenburg masts of dimensions specified, delivered
by Gray at Chatham, in part of which he received other masts at
Portsmouth, 1665 and 1666; with memoranda relating to the price
of Gottenburg masts. [Adm. Paper, 3 pages.] |
Aug. 28.
Whitehall. |
48. Warrant for a grant to Lord Chancellor Clarendon of the
office of Steward and Lieutenant of Woodstock, New Forest,
Whichwood, and other manors and parks, co. Oxford, and also of
wardrobe keeper of Woodstock, he paying 114l. and 22d. yearly
and 20l. for the coppices, tops, and lops, in Whichwood Forest. |
| Aug. 28. |
Entry of the above. [Ent. Book 23, p. 122.] |
| Aug. 28. |
Warrant to Sir John Lenthall to set Bromwich at liberty.
Minute. [Ent. Book 23, p. 224.] |
Aug. 28.
Whitehall. |
Warrant to the Board of Greencloth to pay a pension of 10l. a
year to Anne, widow of Lieut. John Cartwright, slain in the King's
service. [Ent. Book 23, p. 226.] |
Aug. 28.
Whitehall. |
Warrant to the Board of Greencloth to allow to John Sayer,
master cook of the privy kitchen, 431l. 3s. 8d., set in sale as an
arrear on him in the two first household accounts delivered into the
Exchequer. [Ent. Book 23, p. 227.] |
| [Aug. 28.] |
49. Draft of the above. |
| Aug. 28 ? |
50. Statement of the case of John Sayer, master cook, that for
2½ years after the Restoration, a proportion of beef, mutton, and
veal was daily allowed to make strong broth for the King's own
drinking; afterwards, as he seldom supped, that allowance was
reduced, but the accounts for those first 2½ years are made up on
the proportion of the lesser allowance, and the cook charged with
the rest of the meat, to his great prejudice. |
| Aug. 28. |
51. Information [by Capt. Grice] that Major Richardson has come
from Holland, and was at Sir John Rose's lady's in Lincolnshire on
the 8th instant. |
Aug. 28.
Harwich. |
52. Fras. Newby to James Hickes. Seven or eight prizes have
arrived from the fleet, and nine or ten more are expected, laden with
masts and deals. |
| Aug. 28. |
53. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. A privateer sent by Sir Thos.
Morgan to the coast of Bretagne was attacked by a caper, but
escaped; another chased her all day into Plymouth harbour; the
caper went to the west. |
Aug. 28.
Barnstaple Custom House. |
54. P. Manaton to Williamson. Has no news. |
Aug. 28.
Newcastle. |
55. Rich. Forster to Williamson. The assizes are over and the
judges have gone to Carlisle. Thirty light ships have come in and
report the coal fleet to be past Scarborough. |
Aug. 28.
Plymouth. |
56. John Clarke to Williamson. Chase of a small Guernsey
privateer by two Dutch capers. |
| Aug. 28. |
57. John Clarke to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect. |
Aug. 28.
Minehead. |
58. John Maurice to James Hickes. At an election for the
borough, Sir Thos. Bridges and Mr. Mallet, justice of peace, had
most voices. Begs this may not be Gazette news, lest Sir Thomas
might be offended. |
Aug. 29.
Hull. |
59. Luke Whittington to James Hickes. Arrival of Newcastle
colliers; their convoy chased a small pickeroon off Flamborough
Head; another pickeroon has taken a small vessel in the Humber. |
Aug. 29.
Falmouth. |
60. Thos. Holden to James Hickes. The sails and rigging, worth
60l., have been stolen from the cabin of a Dutch prize in the harbour,
and the thieves cannot be found. |
Aug. 29.
Falmouth. |
61. Thos. Holden to Williamson. To the same effect as the preceding and his letter to Hickes of the 26th instant. |
Aug. 29.
Post Office. |
62. Philip Frowde to Williamson. His father being out, sends
letters just come from Dover; they came on Friday last with the
Flanders mail, under cover to Mr. Jemmet, but have been stayed till
now. Encloses, |
|
62. i. Envelope of a letter from Amsterdam of 13/23 August, addressed to Williamson, under cover to Warham Jemmet,
sen. |
Aug. 29.
St. James's, Midnight. |
63. Sir Wm. Coventry to Lord Arlington. Wishes the enclosed
to be sent by an express to the fleet; another should go to
Yarmouth to advertise the colliers or men-of-war coming from the
north, as the fleet may be standing over to the coast of Flanders,
and so miss the Dutch. The lord lieutenants of Essex, Suffolk, and
Norfolk should be told to look to their towns and coast. |
| Aug. 29. |
64. L. Rosin to [John Durel]. Has not time to rewrite the enclosed; that day is the eighth week since he was taken sick out of
his bed. Protests his innocence of the things he is accused of. Encloses, |
|
64. i. L. Rosin to Mr. Durel. Neither his life nor health can
longer bear his present condition; has been sickly most
of his life, is 58 years old, and has the scurvy; has been
nearly two months under restraint. Could satisfy Lord
Arlington if sent for, and begs to be put to no more
charges for messengers' fees; the first week, with expense
of bringing him thither, cost him 6l., yet his diet is very
bad, only salted boiled beef two or three times a week. Has
not walked circumspectly, but is clear of the things he is
accused of. [2 pages.] August 28, 1666. |
Aug. 29.
Weymouth. |
65. John Pocock to James Hickes. A French man-of-war came
boldly up to the west bay of Portland, and fired two guns at the
fishermen, one of which went through the roof of a small thatched
house. The Paradox and Nonsuch have returned from convoying
vessels to Guernsey. |
Aug. 29.
Lyme. |
66. Anth. Thorold to Williamson. The Paradox and Nonsuch
report the good condition of the Channel Islands, and tell of several
prizes lately taken there. |
Aug. 29.
Boston. |
67. Robt. Gray to James Hickes. Three French pickeroons are
on the coasts. |
Aug. 29.
Norwich. |
68. Robt. Scrivener to James Hickes. Has been out of town to
see his family. All parts in Norfolk are very sickly with agues and
fevers. |
Aug. 29.
Lynn. |
69. Edw. Bodham to Williamson. The Little Lion has brought
in several vessels for Lynn and Boston, and will convoy a dozen
back to London. Alderman Matthias Tirell, a very worthy person,
is chosen mayor, and begins his mayoralty on Michaelmas Day. |
Aug. 29.
Yarmouth. |
70. Rich. Bower to Williamson. An Ostender saw off Ostend
88 Dutch men-of-war and 14 fire-ships. Edw. Thaxter and
Rich. Huntington have been chosen new bailiffs for the ensuing
year, at which there was general rejoicing, they being the only
two likely to make a thorough reformation in the affairs of the
town, and take away scandal by having His Majesty's affairs more
readily attended to. |
Aug. 29.
Swansea. |
71. John Man to Williamson. Is daily expecting news, hearing
that the Dutch fleet is out, and the French and Danish fleets joined
with them. |
Aug. 29.
Swansea. |
72. John Man to James Hickes. Thanks for letters and Gazettes. |
Aug. 29.
Royal Charles, Sole Bay, 10 a.m. |
73. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. One Ostend merchant
reported the Dutch fleet of 90 sail to be between the Weylings
and Ostend, and another reported them standing westward, as if
for the Channel. The Little Mary was chased into the fleet by
two men-of-war from their fleet, which stood yesterday northward,
being 10 or 12 leagues S. by W. from the Weylings. The sign is
given for the English fleet to weigh anchor; they have 92 men-ofwar but only 11 fire-ships; those expected from the river are not yet
come; they will keep the weather gage, if the wind continue
N. by W.; Lord Cranborne and Mr. Russell, a son of the Duke of
Bedford, have come on board. It is reported in Flanders that a son
of De Witt has shot Trump. The bulk of the collier fleet has not
come, and the 50 sail only yielded little; an old man and two boys,
beside the master, were the ship's company of many, and the men
out of the greater vessels ran ashore in boats, to avoid a press, but
some are in custody at Yarmouth; 800 men have been sent sick on
shore since the fleet came in. With postscript, 2 p.m., that the wind
and tides will prevent their sailing till to-morrow. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 29.
Royal Charles, Sole Bay. |
74. Sir Thos. Clifford to Williamson. Thanks for news. Hopes
soon to sail, and then packets can be sent from Harwich. |
| Aug. 29. |
75. Petition of Roger Tows, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to Lord
Arlington, to be brought before him this evening or to-morrow
morning. Marked "To be re-examined." |
| Aug. 29. |
Warrant to pay to the Earl of Berkshire 5,000l., in regard of
his present necessities, by assignment on the receiver general, in
part of 8,000l. granted him by patent, the remaining 3,000l. to be
paid to his daughter, Lady Eliz. Dryden. [Docquet.] |
| Aug. 29. |
Warrant for a grant to Willm. Ireland of the sinecure parsonage
of Gedney, co. Lincoln. [Ent. Book 19, p. 54.] |
Aug. 29.
Whitehall. |
Warrant to the Ordnance Comrs. to deliver 12 pieces of ordnance,
well moulded and fitted, to Col. Silius Titus, governor of Deal
Castle, for defence of the Isle of Thanet. [Ent. Book 20, p. 133a.] |
| Aug. 29. |
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Kent. Capt. John Boyse's
company of militia, being chiefly from the Isle of Thanet, is to
associate with Colonel Titus' regiment in defence of that coast,
being nearer to it than to that to which it properly belongs, that
there may be good and sufficient guard for the coast, and to obey
Colonel Titus as their superior officer. [Ent. Book 17, p. 200.] |
| Aug. 29. |
76. Grant of pardon to Edward Earl of Sandwich of all offences
committed in reference to his naval expedition against Algiers, his
taking possession of Tangiers, his transactions in his embassy to
Portugal relating to the crown of Portugal, his recent expedition in
the Dutch war, including his accounts relative to the two East India
prizes; granted lest in any of the above-mentioned transactions, he
may have gone beyond the letter of his instructions. [4 pages, copy.] |
| Aug. |
77. Draft of the above, dated Aug. 28. [2 pages.] |
| Aug. 29. |
Entry of the above. [Ent. Book 23, p. 120.] |
Aug. 29.
Custom House. |
78. Sir John Wolstenholme, Sir John Shaw, and J. Harrison,
Farmers of Customs, to the Navy Comrs. Mr. Baylie is contented
to accept of his 1,750l. for the building of a third-rate ship after
Christmas; will give a letter of credit accordingly. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 29.
Ordnance Office. |
79. Edw. Sherburne and three other Ordnance Officers to the Navy
Comrs. All necessaries are in readiness for the six ships advised of
by Sir Wm. Coventry; the Malaga Merchant and Constant John
are supplied, and the ordnance of the Loyal Subject, Katherine, and
John and Thomas taken out. [Adm. Paper.] |
| Aug. 30. |
80. Thos. Elliott to Sam. Pepys. Some of the provisions and
gunner's stores of the Katherine are not yet taken out; asks
whether the men are to be discharged before this is done. [Adm.
Paper.] |
Aug. 30.
Portsmouth Dockyard. |
81. Comr. Thos. Middleton to Sam. Pepys. Longs for an answer to his last letter sent by express; all are in health in the
dockyard; knows not how it is in the town, until the weekly bill
of mortality appears. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 30.
Star Chamber Lodgings. |
82. J. Evelyn and Sir Wm. Doyley, Commissioners for sick and
wounded, to the Navy Comrs. Several abuses are committed by
sick seamen sent to the hospitals; having no means of punishment
in such cases, can only discharge the most notorious; beg that
suitable encouragement may be given to the governors of the
hospitals for their assistance. With note of John Spiller and Wm.
Bone [probably offenders]. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 30.
Portsmouth. |
83. John Shales to Sam. Pepys. Particulars of victualling stores:
8,927 bags of bread may be depended on by 30th November; only
100 tuns of beer a week can be provided, till the brewhouse is repaired, but there are 600 or 700 tuns ready. Is ill, and fears he may
be unable to continue the business. |
Aug. 30.
Custom House. |
84. Sir John Wolstenholme and two other Farmers of Customs
to the Navy Comrs. Desire the passing of a warrant and entry
for hemp, delivered at Woolwich in Dec. 1663, for which no custom
has yet been paid. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 30.
Leith. |
85. Capt. John Strachan and Patrick Lyell to the Navy Comrs.
Particulars of plank and clapboard to be bought, and of prizes
brought in containing various stores. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 30.
London. |
86. Certificate by Sir George Smith, that Thomas Braylsford, a
merchant who has lived for six years past in Amsterdam, and
wishes to return thither on important business, is well affected to
the King and government. |
Aug. 30.
Royal Charles. |
87. Ja. Reade to Williamson. They weighed anchor this morning
with a most gallant fleet, wind N.W., all in good health and full of
courage; the enemy are 4 leagues without the Weylings. |
Aug. 30.
Royal Charles, Sole Bay, 7 a.m. |
88. Sir Thos. Clifford to Lord Arlington. They are under sail
out of the bay, wind W.N.W., but so little that they have to
drive with the tide, and when it turns, fears they must anchor;
more colliers are in sight very opportunely, the Princess is coming,
and the fire-ships expected. With postscript, Aug. 31, 8 a.m., that
they were obliged to anchor yesterday, but have sailed again, to
make the Foreland, and thence fall on the Hollanders; the fire-ships
have not come; the colliers have yielded some men. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 30.
Dover. |
89. Warham Jemmett, sen., to Williamson. Sends to Sir Phil.
Frowde two or three times a week news about the Dutch fleet sent by
Mr. Glanville and Mr. Custis. Quotes a French letter from Mr. Richard,
master of the posts from France to England, thanking him for the news,
and hoping for peace. The news sent was of the affair of the Vlie
and Schelling, which has made the names of the generals terrible
all over France. Sir Lewis Dives has arrived, leaving the Earl of
St. Alban's at Calais, waiting an order for a convoy thence. Begs
favour in his trouble by being bound for Sir Arthur Slingsby. The
captain is still in prison; threatens to lay on him the whole 200l.
unless he pay the 100l. to Mr. Banks. Mr. Carlisle has married a
young widow. [2 pages.] |
Aug. 30.
Bridlington. |
90. John Bower to James Hickes. There was an alarm that some
ships seen at sea were part of the Holland fleet, but they prove to
be light colliers. |
Aug. 30.
Truro. |
91. Hugh Acland to Williamson. The place is altogether barren
of news. |
Aug. 30.
Scarborough. Castle. |
92. Pe. Hawkins to Williamson. On Tuesday, 11 tall ships, supposed to be Dutch men-of-war, were seen four leagues off, and a
galliot hoy four miles off, some of them seeming to make for the
port; the garrison was put in a posture to defend the town and
offend the enemy, and boats were kept plying all night to observe
them, but next morning they went northwards. |
Aug. 30.
Thursday, Scarborough Castle. |
93. P. Hawkins to [Williamson]. Yesterday 30 Dutch men-ofwar came within a league of Burlington Bay. The whole town and
the country people of the adjacent towns were in arms, and the
whins on the hill tops fired instead of beacons, and continued till
to-day, when they put to sea again and were seen no more. The
collier fleet had put to sea before the 11 Dutch ships were seen, but
it is conceived that, sailing near the shore, they were not seen by
the Dutch. |
Aug. 30.
Whitby. |
94. Tho. Waade to Williamson. Alarm of Dutch men-of-war
given by the bailiffs of Scarborough. Some think them light colliers
for Newcastle, but the generality take them for enemies, supposing
the great body of their fleet to be without, to secure their East India
fleet, returning homewards. |
Aug. 30.
Portsmouth. |
95. Robt. Mills to James Hickes. Thanks for news; is ashamed
to have nothing worth notice to offer. A ship has come for masts
and sails for Plymouth stores. |
Aug. 30.
Whitehall. |
96. H. Muddiman to George Powell, comptroller of Pembroke.
News from the Hague, Antigua, Bruges, Ireland, Seville, and Leghorn.
The English taken prisoners in the Breda are sent to Breda. A
London ship has arrived richly laden from Jamaica and Guinea.
The Sorlings took a Dane off the coast of Norway; 30 Swedes
men-of-war within sight of the Naes come seasonably to secure the
Sound, and give the Danes a just excuse for not assisting Holland.
A proclamation is issued for all to repair to their ships, which are
hastening to join the fleet. At Salisbury 24 died last week; at
Norwich 220, being 203 increase; Ipswich 11, of plague 8; Portsmouth 13, of plague 7; London, within the walls, 266, of plague 30.
The Dutch, humbled by their late serious losses, have appointed the
first Wednesday of every month as a fast. Hopes they may seek a
safe and honourable peace. Col. Panton, Lieut. Broughton, Ensign
Howard, Major Miller, and several other officers of the Guards are
sent for to the fleet. The Court believes the fleet to be 98, none
under fourth rate, beside fire-ships, and the Dutch only 70, drawn
out by false intelligence that 20 of the best English ships were sent
to Chatham, and only a small winter guard left to maintain the
sea; 120 laden colliers passed Yarmouth and 400 more are coming,
the ships that went up empty being reladen. They came out of
the bar so thick, that they could not steer free of one another.
[3 pages.] |
Aug. 31.
Barnstaple. |
97. P. Manaton to Williamson. Has still only a "nil novi" to
salute him with. Will pay his disbursements. |
Aug. 31.
Penzance, Mount's Bay. |
98. Col. Anth. Buller to Williamson. The men are waiting the
vessels to embark for Scilly; on arrival there, will call the officers
together and propose to them to pay for their commissions. Hopes
to give a particular account of affairs there. Little can be done
without the 300l. for the fortifications. |
Aug. 31.
Noon, Margate. |
99. John Smith to Williamson. The Dutch fleet is standing off
five leagues from shore, the scouts two or three leagues off, and may
discern the English fleet in Sole Bay. Expects a fight to night. |
Aug. 31.
Canterbury. |
100. Col. Thos. Culpepper to Lord Arlington. Going to the
Isle of Thanet to inquire of the enemy's fleet, found it at anchor off
the North Foreland, four leagues distant. A ketch sailed towards
Margate Road, but tacked and returned to the fleet; hopes it was
from discovering the English fleet. If they are out by to-morrow,
11 a.m., they will hinder the Dutch getting home, the wind being
north-east. Has ordered two companies to guard the coast. Hopes
that their readiness makes the occasion seem worthy of Lord
Douglas's presence, for the Dutch never intended to land there. |
Aug. 31.
Yarmouth. |
101. Rich. Bower to Williamson. Yesterday the collier fleet was
boarded by several men-of-war's boats to press, and troops were at
the sea side to take up those that came ashore. An Ostender reports
that on Monday De Ruyter lay off Ostend, with 90 men-of-war. The
sickness has broken out again in one house at Yarmouth. |
Aug. 31.
Plymouth Fort. |
102. Receipt by Robt. Martin, commander of the Great Duke of
York, from Sir John Skelton, of packets of letters for the Governor
and Council of Massachusetts, and of Connecticut, and for Sir Thos.
Temple, governor of Nova Scotia, all which he will deliver if he
arrive safely in New England. |
| Aug. 31 ? |
103. Sir Jo. Skelton to Williamson. Has delivered the packets for
New England to the master of the Great Duke of York, belonging
to Sir Wm. Warren, and he promises care of them. The provision
ships have sailed for Scilly, and will return to Mount's Bay to take
in Col. Buller's men, who are supposed to be there by this time.
Recommends the business of his son in Norfolk. |
Aug. 31.
Dover. |
104. J. C[arlisle] to Williamson. Will come up if there be no
remedy, but can hardly be absent, being about sending a boat to
sea for intelligence; 100 Dutch sail were seen off the back of the
sands, but have gone northwards. Sir Ant. Desmarces, who has
arrived at the castle from Holland, will report how affairs stand
there. |
Aug. 31.
Dover Castle. |
105. William Freman to Williamson. On arrival of Sir Ant.
Desmarces from Nieuport, a letter of advice was sent to the generals
of the fleet; doubts not but they will send an express, lest foul
weather should hinder the boat from reaching the fleet. Sir Anthony
says the Dutch East India fleet lies at Ushant, and it is a pity it
should get safe home. The Dutch have made haste out to draw the
English fleet after them, and 100 sail are said to be on the back of
the Goodwin. The Nieuport packet being plundered in sight of
the castle, men are so fearful that they are unwilling to man a boat
to go to the fleet. |
| Aug. 31. |
106. News from Hartlepool that seven great ships and two
galliots, supposed Holland men-of-war, have been seen off Scarborough. |
Aug. 31.
Berwick. |
107. Mark Scott to [Williamson]. Michael Robin, master of the
St. John of Dieppe, who was taken, carried to Rouen, and detained
there till the 21st instant, reports that the Holland fleet was not
then come out; that Van Tromp was kept at the Hague and De
Ruyter's lieutenant put in his place; and that all the frigates were
ordered to rendezvous speedily at Flushing. |
Aug. 31.
Newcastle. |
108. Rich. Forster to Williamson. Two Hamburgers, who came
in last night from London, say that the two fleets engaged on
Wednesday. |
Aug. 31.
Newcastle. |
109. Rich. Forster to Williamson. Arrival of collier vessels. A
ship of Sweden, laden with deals, reports that he left there an
East India ship, and an English prize from the West Indies, brought
in by a privateer. |
Aug. 31.
Plymouth. |
110. D. G[rosse] to Williamson. Some vessels sailing for Scilly
will call at Mount's Bay, to take in Col. Buller, the governor, with
300 able soldiers for supply of the garrison. Departure of other
ships. |
Aug. 31.
Plymouth. |
111. John Clarke to Williamson. Departure of vessels for Scilly;
5 large ships have been seen off the Lizard, and then 17 more. |
| Aug. 31. |
112. John Clarke to Jas. Hickes. To the same effect. |
Aug. 31.
Walmer. |
113. Ri. Watts to Williamson. There are no vessels in the
Downs but a pickeroon four miles from Walmer Castle; 20 die a
week of the plague at Deal; it decreases in Sandwich; it crept
into Canterbury, but does not spread; the country justices are very
careful, and have assessed all the hundreds nigh to contribute. An
exchanged prisoner from Holland says the Dutch ships were so
lamed last fight they cannot come out this season; seamen and
soldiers run away, though the drums beat daily to have them on
board, and large wages are offered. |
Aug. 31.
Walmer. |
114. Ri. Watts to Williamson. The Blackamoor and Young Lion
have brought in eight merchant ships; the Young Lion attacked
the sloop lying off the coast, but she escaped. The vessels have
sailed for the Thames. The rogues grow bold; some landed in a
boat; it is thought they intend to fire and plunder Kingsdown, a
mile south of the castle, where two or three old usurers live; there
were 50 men in the sloop. Two small frigates would secure those
parts, and bring in prizes. |
| Aug. ? |
115. Petition of Cornelius Hooker, of Gray's Inn, to the King, for
letters to the magistrates, &c., of Winchester, to restore him to the
place of Recorder there, from which he was suspended for his loyalty
by the late powers, and Mr. Goddard put in, who is lately deceased. |
Aug. 31.
Whitehall. |
116. The King to the Mayor of Winchester. Recommends the
restoration of Cornelius Hooker, of that place, who was chosen
recorder of the town in 1652, but suspended by the then usurped
powers, for loyalty; the person substituted being lately dead, the
place is vacant. |
| Aug. 31. |
Entry of the above. [Ent. Book 17, p. 201.] |
| Aug. 31. |
Warrant to the Commissioners of Prizes to sell the ship Charity
of Amsterdam to Daniel Collingwood, governor of Holy Island and
a cornet in the Life Guards. [Ent. Book 23, p. 124.] |
| Aug. 31. |
Reference to the Solicitor General on the petition of Capt. John
Bellew, who complains that he is not restored to his estate, although
he had the King's letters for his restoration. [Ent. Book 18, p. 220.] |
Aug. 31.
Antwerp. |
117. Aphara [Behn] to Major Halsall. Has at length met with
Mr. Scott, who leaves nothing unsaid to beget confidence, seems
earnest in his wish to serve, and wants not wit nor address, but only
money; the States not having paid them, he is in debt at Amsterdam,
and cannot leave; he thinks it best to quit his military employment,
as it would keep him too far from the places where his services are
needed; he would go at once, but cannot do it without a speedy
supply. Celadon [Scott] will do nothing further without full
authority, but he should be encouraged, for he can and will do service,
and first he must be assured of his pardon. Sands Temple's
treachery should not be suddenly discovered, or it may undo all; he
is a damnable rogue, and should be kept in prison, for if he be let
out, he will get into Holland, discover who have informed of him,
and ruin all. [3 pages.] |
Aug. 31.
Antwerp. |
118. A. Behn to Thos. Killigrew. Is obliged to trouble him, as
she can get no reply from Mr. Halsall. Celadon [Scott] is most
ready to serve His Majesty, but fears being ill dealt with, as all the
King's friends there complain of the slenderness of their rewards;
yet he tells her everything on her bare word, as confidently as if he
had the King's great seal. He must have money, for though the
States profess great esteem for the English troops, they have not
paid them. Bampfield himself is out of money; dares not go to
Holland for fear of Bampfield's jealousy, so gave [Scott] money to
come twice to her, which cost 10l. a time, and all their letters have
to be sent by special messengers. Complains of great expenses;
brought only 40l. with her, and has to spend 10 guilders a day.
Corney, a man in Antwerp, threatens to kill Celadon [Scott] if he
comes again, and Bampfield, if he knew of his coming, would accuse
him of treachery; therefore [Scott] is afraid to write in his own
hand. Corney talks of being employed, and boasts as though he
were the King's right hand, but he talks such rhodomontades as to
be dangerous to trust; entreats for money; owes 25l. or 30l.; will
want more than 50l. to pay her debts and go to Holland; Begs to
have [Scott's] pardon, and some assurance as to what he may expect.
[5 pages.] |
Aug. 31.
Plymouth. |
119. John Lanyon to the Navy Comrs. Requests orders for manning the Pearl. Only one last of tar and 616 deal boards remain of
the lading of the Mermaid. The cordage is shipped on the Pearl,
but shall be taken on shore and weighed. The disbursements on
various ships amount to 602l. Begs speedy payment. [Adm. Paper.]
Encloses, |
|
119. i. Receipt by John Lanyon, merchant of Plymouth, and
agent to the Navy Comrs. there, of the Pearl of Amsterdam,
borrowed by them from the Plymouth Prize Comrs., for
a voyage to Portsmouth, and promise to deliver the same
to the Prize Comrs. for Southampton and Cowes, in as
good a condition as when received. [Copy.] |
Aug. 31.
Newcastle. |
120. Hum. Pibus to the Navy Comrs. Hopes the Flying
Greyhound has arrived at Harwich, and the colliers in the Thames.
Sends an account of his disbursements and entreats speedy payment.
[Adm. Paper.] |
Aug. 31.
Plymouth. |
121. Sam. Langford to Sam. Pepys. The Orange has not 40 men
on board; in her late engagements with the Indiaman, and two Dutch
capers, many were wounded and killed. The ships that victual
generally lack 10, 20, or 40 of their complement. Knows not what
light the clerk of the cheque gives to pursers' demands, but hopes
the musters of the Orange will be examined. There will be more
employment next month, as the fleet is expected. [Adm. Paper.]
Encloses, |
|
121. i. Account of cask, staves, and iron hoops returned from
ships in July and August. |
|
121. ii. Note of letters of credit granted to two ships for the
service during the month of August. |
Aug.
Portsmouth. |
122. Petition of Thos. Carter, bricklayer in the Portsmouth
dockyard, to the Navy Comrs. to be borne on the clerk of the
cheque's book and receive his money when the rest of the yard
is paid; has advanced almost all he has to purchase goods for the
service, and after being at great expense in journeys to London to
receive his bills, and long waiting, has had to sell them to great loss.
[Adm. Paper.] |
| Aug. ? |
123. Petition of Giovanni Lorenzo Viviano, a Genoese, captain
of the ship St. Christo de Castello, to the King, for a passport for
the said ship, built at Amsterdam for himself and other Geneose
residents there, fitted up and laden by them, and now ready to
proceed on a trading voyage by Portugal and Spain to Genoa. |
Aug.
Whitehall. |
124. Warrant for a grant to John Viscount Mordaunt of the
estate of Sir Rob. Honeywood, jun., attainted for not having repaired from beyond the seas, when summoned by the proclamation of
21st April last. |
Aug.
Whitehall. |
125. Warrant to Lord Ashley, treasurer for prizes, to pay to
Sir George Carteret 10,000l. on account, for the use of the Navy. |
| Aug. |
126. Wm. Hickes, Sir Rob. Abdy, and John Bramston, justices of
the peace for Essex, to the Navy Comrs. Desire an order for the
speedy sending abroad of loose persons taken up by order of the
Privy Council as fit for service, and detained in the house of correction, the charge of keeping them being great. [Adm. Paper.] |
Aug.
Bristol. |
127. Fras. Baylie to the Navy Comrs. Capt. Saunders is satisfied
with the trial of the St. Patrick; will undertake a third-rate ship;
no better place in England can be found for building it than where
the St. Patrick was built; will take the usual rate of price, and
finish it in as short a time as any man of the trade. [Adm. Paper.]
Encloses, |
|
127. Capt. Robt. Saunders to the Navy Comrs. Certifies that
the St. Patrick is as good a contract ship as possible, and
answers all expectations as to strength and stoutness of
sailing. St. Patrick, below the Holmes, July 24, 1666. |
| Aug. |
Memoranda [by Williamson from the Signet hooks] of grants, &c,
passed during the month, the uncalendared portions of which are as
follow:—
Grant to Halsnorth and Withers of 40l. a year each pension,
from the revenue of cos. Bedford and Bucks.
Commission renewed to the Lord Privy Seal and others to
determine cases of appeal on prizes.
Grant to the feltmakers of London of incorporation. [Domestic Corresp., June 1666, Vol. 160, No. 126*.] |
| Aug. ? |
128. Information that in pursuance of a warrant to search for
frames for frame-work knitting, bought with a design to be transported to Portugal, and to take persons concerned therein, the
house was searched where the frames were thought to be, but they
had been removed to Somerset House; that John Hood and
others were solicited to go to Lisbon, there to follow the art of
frame-work knitting; that John Herbert, now in custody, was
employed to buy frames, and one was carried to the house of the
late Ambassador of Portugal, and that the Countess Panerna is
thought to be principally concerned in the business. |
Aug.
Whitehall. |
129. Memorandum that many persons in a certain commission
being absent, Sir Godfrey Lloyd and Capt. Blencow be added as
Commissioners. |
Aug. ?
Naples. |
130. Enconium, addressed to Charles II. by Francesco Bruno, on
the late victory of his armada, under Prince Rupert and the Duke
of Albemarle, against the Seven United Provinces; with a dedication to the King. [Italian verse, 11 pages.] |
