Charles II: March 1669

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1668-9. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1894.

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'Charles II: March 1669', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1668-9, (London, 1894) pp. 219-258. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1668-9/pp219-258 [accessed 28 March 2024]

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March 1669

March 1.
Petworth.
Earl of Northumberland to Lord [Arlington]. I would not have so long deferred sending the names of those I desire to be presented to his Majesty as deputy-lieutenants, could I have got their answer earlier. As the lists differ but little from what was before, I doubt not of the King's approbation therein. [This was granted 5 March, see p. 224 infra. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 1.] Enclosing,
Names of 11 deputy-lieutenants proposed for Northumberland. [Ibid. No. 1i.]
Names of 6 proposed for Newcastle. [Ibid. No. 1ii.]
Names of 9 proposed for Sussex. [Ibid. No. 1iii.]
March 1.
Wareham.
Thos. Adamson to Rob. Francis. Mrs. Moundeford, senior, is very ill, but much revived at the sight of her daughter. I delivered her your letter, which was kindly accepted, but I believe she could not answer it for the world's ransom; she leaves all her business to Hen. Widdrington, who acts as a father to her child. I gave the second letter to the young lady herself, who sends her humble service, and sends a letter for Mr. Widdrington, which she desires you will deliver. I suppose she has given him some account of her employment, as she has been so concerned for her mother since I brought her home, that she has not been over the threshold yet. I hope you will come with my lord, who attends the King to Newmarket, to witness the foot race, and I will then wait upon you, it being only 22 miles distant. Give mine and my wife's humble service to Lady Crane, my valentine, Madam Carnaby, and Mr. Widdrington. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 2.]
March 1.
Pendennis.
Fras. Bellott to Williamson. There are 40 sail now in harbour; the George, laden with oils, sailed this morning for London, and one for Plymouth with iron. [Ibid. No. 3.]
March 1.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Hickes. A vessel from Rouen reports that the plague has quite left the town, and that the French King is building 120 boats of 3 tons each, which he intends to put into 3 squadrons of English, Dutch, and French, who are to sham a sea fight for the divertisement of the Court. Several ships outward bound have put to sea, and others have come in. [Ibid. No. 4.]
March 1.
Little Victory, Spithead.
Capt. Leonard Harris to the Navy Commissioners. I arrived from Leghorn with marble stones, by order of Sir Thos. Allin, and was forced in here by contrary winds, where I shall wait your orders. [Ibid. No. 5.]
March 1.
Whitehall.
Sir George Carteret to the Navy Commissioners. I directed Mr. Waith to wait upon you, and he represented that as all orders from the Lord High Admiral, for entering ships into pay and discharging them, were directed to you, the records of your office must suffice to answer the question required by the Commissioners of Accounts. As all our sea books and net books are in the custody of the said Commissioners, I could not answer the question what ships have been paid. [1¼ pages. Ibid. No. 6.]
March 1.
Woolwich Ropeyard.
Wm. Bodham to the Navy Commissioners. I need a supply of tar, some yarn having received damage for want of it, through the moistness of the walls. [Ibid. No. 7.]
March 1.
Victualling Office.
Thos. Lewis to the Navy Commissioners. Capt. Thos. Gurling, formerly commander of the Barbadoes fireship, was indebted on his victualling account, he having been allowed his wages. The victualler begs allowance for what he stands charged with, much being lost through the sinking of the ship, with a great portion of the provisions, in Chatham river. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 8.]
March 2.
Portsmouth.
Capt. Ant. Deane to Pepys. My wife, on second thought, thinks the piece of plate should be a tankard, if there is time enough to stop the flagon. [1½ pages, much defaced. Ibid. No. 9.]
March 2.
Portsmouth.
Capt. Ant. Deane to Mat. Wren. Observations on masts, &c., in store, and the purposes for which they are required. The Little Victory arrived at Spithead with marble for his Majesty's houses. [4 pages, damaged. Ibid. No. 10.]
March 2. Rob. Maddocks to Surveyor Thos. Middleton. Upon the promise of ready money, my brother [J. Maddocks] has served in several pieces of very good plank, when it was not very easily to be had, and is buying more in Suffolk, which he cannot go through with, unless he is supplied by payment of his bills. [Ibid. No. 11. See Calendar 1667, p. 361.]
March 2.
Navy Office.
Surveyor Middleton to Pepys. I send an account of unserviceable and decayed provisions from the several yards. I have also visited his Majesty's houses and offices in possession of the victualler, and find some of them taken down, being rotten, and those standing ready to drop down. Inquiring the reason, Sir Denis Gauden says he took them down to preserve his men's lives, lest when at work they might fall on their heads; but he intends to re-build them or erect a double-roofed house in the yard in their stead. [Ibid. No. 12.]
March 2.
Woolwich.
W. Hannam to the Navy Commissioners. I will put in practice the rules of the Navy for causing men to give attendance, now they are being paid monthly. It was the neglect of the Assistance's company that I complained of to the surveyor. Here are 11 ships and 57 men borne upon them, and if two-thirds would give attendance, I should be able to comply with the work; but the cooks complain that if they gave constant attendance, and had not liberty to get money some other way, they could not live. I told them they should have all the liberty that could be afforded, but must be here at the docking and launching of ships; they thought they were hardly dealt with. I hope to complete the number of 25 in the rigging house. [1¼ pages. Ibid. No. 13.]
March 2.
Newcastle.
Humphrey Pibus to the Navy Commissioners. I shall use all means to ship the 80 masts, but fear not to be able until the blowing month of March is over, when I shall have more ships, and the masters will be more willing to hazard them. [Ibid. No. 14.]
March 2. Jas. Hayes to the Navy Commissioners. I want an order to the officers at Woolwich, for a longboat for the Wevenhoe ketch, lent by the King to Prince Rupert and others for a voyage to Hudson's Bay, her former boat being staved. [Ibid. No. 15.]
March 2.
Rye.
Edmond Harris to the Navy Commissioners. I want a reward for a Hastings man, for recovering part of a cable belonging to the St. Andrew. I also beg that the money long since disbursed by me may be paid. I ordered Phineas Cheston to receive it, but he could never get any of it. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 16.]
March 2.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to [Williamson]. Nothing has been heard of the 8 or 10 seamen that left the vessel on the Goodwin Sands in the long boat; it is feared they are lost, as the boat was small, and many in it, beside some rich goods. [Ibid. No. 17.]
March 2.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Expedition from Genoa and Leghorn, laden with merchants' goods for Amsterdam, put into Spithead for sails and other necessaries. [Ibid. No. 18.]
March 2.
Portsmouth.
Same to the Same. The Little Victory has arrived at Spithead from Leghorn, with marble for his Majesty, and is bound for the Thames. [Ibid. No. 19.]
March 2.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to Hickes. A ship has arrived from Leghorn and one from Cadiz. The Concord, that sailed for the Isle of Wight, sprang a leak, and put back to be repaired. [Ibid. No. 20.]
March 2.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. There have 3 ships come in; the laden fleet still remains, waiting for a fair wind. [Ibid No. 21.]
March 3.
Bristol.
James Baskerville to Williamson. A vessel has come in with sherry from Cadiz, being the first imported since the Act for the new imposition. French wines are also very scarce, so that it is believed his Majesty, or the Farmers of Customs, will lose as much by the customs as that duty amounts to here. [Ibid. No. 22.]
March 3.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Williamson. To the same effect as his letter to Hickes of the 1st. Also, a vessel from Marseilles reports that the Turks made a great breach upon the outworks of Candia; that most of the French succours sent there were killed in the onset, and that unless a speedy supply is sent, the city will be in much danger of being taken. I beg to be supplied with the news-letters, having had none 2 or 3 posts. [1¾ pages. Ibid. No. 23.]
March 3.
Falmouth.
Same to Hickes. To the same effect as the latter part of the above. [Ibid. No. 24.]
March 3.
Yarmouth.
Rich. Bower to Williamson. There have 23 vessels sailed for the North Seas to catch cod; several others have come in, one of which was boarded at sea by a Turkish man-of-war, who took some inconsiderable things, and told them the peace would not long hold.
The Independents have fitted up a place for public meetings with seats for the people, and a desk for the parson, where at least 1,000 met. The fitting up was not taken notice of before they met, only by their own party, by which may be seen the secret intelligence they hold with one another. Lord Gerard arrived last night, and left this day. He rode round the town to take a view, in company with Dr. Lewin's son. [Ibid. No. 25.]
March 3.
Weymouth.
John Pocock to James Hickes. The Mousehunter hoy was cast away at Portland on 28 Feb., laden with pitch; the greatest part of her cargo was saved, but not the ship. [Ibid. No. 26.]
March 3.
Chester.
Ma. Anderton to Williamson. The Mary yacht has arrived with Lord Fingall [Luke Plunkett] and his lady, and Col. FitzPatrick from Dublin; the Earl of Derby has issued orders for the militia of this county to muster during the month, to see in what posture they are for service in case of exigence. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 27.]
March 3. Warrant for discharge of Margaret Griffith from her imprisonment, on giving security to transport herself to Virginia. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 115.]
March 3. Licence to Col. William Howard, Sir Simon Fanshaw, Sir Henry Chichley, Sir William Neale, Bart., Sir William Mason, Sir William Carr, Cols. Guy Molesworth, Rowland Laugherne,—Lamplugh, Conyers Griffin,—Moubray, Lieut.-Col. Thomas Godfrey, Major Thomas Herne,—Wigmore, and — Crompton, to hold plate lotteries in Ireland, provided they be not prejudicial to the Royal Oak Lottery granted to James Roche for 7 years. [Ibid. f. 116.]
March 3. Warrant to James Beck, serjeant-at-arms, to apprehend Sir William Coventry, and convey him to the Tower for having sent a challenge to the Duke of Buckingham. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 3. Warrant to Sir John Robinson, Lieutenant of the Tower, to receive Sir William Coventry. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 4. Note by Sir John Robinson, Lieutenant of the Tower, that he has received Coventry by the hands of Beck, serjeant-at-arms, according to his Majesty's order. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 28.]
March 4. Warrant to John Bradley to convey Henry Saville to the Tower. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 116.]
March 4. Warrant to the Lieutenant of the Tower to receive him. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 4. Post warrant for Capt. Bevill Skelton to come to London from York. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 4. Warrant for a grant of denization for George de Coster, an alien. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 91.]
March 4. Warrant for remission to Fras. Wiltshaw, captain of the Antelope, in consideration of former service, of a fine of 282l. 10s. to which he is condemned by the Commissioners for discovery of prize goods embezzled, provided he satisfy the discoverers for the portion allotted to them for discovery. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 48.]
March 4. Warrant to Sir Edw. Griffin, Treasurer of the Chamber, to pay 100l. to Humphrey, Bishop of London, chief almoner, to be distributed in alms on Maunday Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Monday. [Ibid.]
March 4. Recommendation from Lord Arlington to the Lord Bishop Almoner, of the petition of John Foresey, an ancient servant of the King, for alms on Maunday Thursday. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 12.]
March 4. Thos. Goose, purser of the Sweepstakes, to the Navy Commissioners. I beg that my papers may be reviewed, and just right allowed, [John] Shales and other officers having testified to their accuracy. I sent provisions to ships named by my captain's order; if I had denied, I should have been put in the bilboes, as others have been. I could not command the wind and sea; you have the officers' hand, and the captain's letter, and I hope you do not think all men are liars. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 29.]
March 4.
Woolwich.
Edw. Grainge, cook of the Assistance, to Sir John Mennes. The master attendant at Woolwich requires that I and the other warrant officers should attend to do duty, and labour wherever he appoints; this being a thing not practicable in the Navy, we refused to work except aboard the ship to which we belong; therefore he has caused our victualling warrants to be stopped. We desire your order to the clerk of the cheque, that we may have our warrants, and not be required to work as common labourers. [Ibid. No. 30.]
March 4? Richard Green, purser of the Monmouth, to Pepys. The provisions of the Monmouth are all delivered at Sir Denis Gauden's storehouse at Deptford, except one boat with beer. I desire a survey, that I may be cleared, and have a receipt. [Ibid. No. 30a.]
March 4.
London.
Rob. Bransby to Lord Conway, Ragley Lodge. I beg payment of my bill of 200l., for goods delivered at your house in Queen Street, having received only 60l., and given credit for above 4 years. [Ibid. No. 31.]
March 5.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to [Williamson]. No ships in the Downs; there is a report that the French resolve upon Flanders the ensuing summer. [Ibid. No. 32.]
March 5.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. Particulars of the arrival and departure of ships. [Ibid. No. 33.]
March 5.
Brooke House, Holborn.
Order of the Commissioners of Accounts that Wm. Wardour, Clerk of the Pells, be desired to prepare accounts of all receipts and issues of money by virtue of the Act for granting 1,250,000l. for his Majesty's supply, as also upon the Poll Bill, and an explanatory Act thereof, and that such accounts be framed as directed, and delivered in to them upon oath. [Ibid. No. 34.]
March 5. Certificate by Rob. Foorthe and 9 others, churchwardens and inhabitants of St. Saviour's, Southwark, to the Judge of Assize and gaol delivery for Surrey, that Wm. Clint has been an inhabitant several years, is honest, but poor, and is no ways given to defrauding, or known to have been tainted in his reputation. [Ibid. No. 35.]
[March 5.] Like certificate by Zach. Populer and 4 others, that Clint, a drayman, has lived with them as a servant, and that they always found him honest and faithful. Also certificate of Jo. Halle and 11 other justices of the peace that he has lived with several brewers in the Borough for many years, and has a very good repute amongst his neighbours. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 36.]
March 5. Sir John Denham to Lord Arlington. I find by my patent that I have power to make a deputy, during my life; and according to the King's desire, intimated by the Duke of Buckingham, I have appointed Dr. Christopher Wren my sole deputy. I desire his lordship will obtain a warrant for him, he having been already sworn. I know of no verbal deputations, and if Mr. May or anyone else pretends thereto, it is without my knowledge or consent. [Ibid. No. 37.]
March 5.
Prison.
M. de la Fabvolière to Williamson. I beg you to obtain me Lord Arlington's pardon. My offence has been done in ignorance. I thought I was doing right in making a plan of Whitehall, as ordered by the King, but could not do it without a protection, because I owed money, and was in danger of arrest. I beg an order that my papers, books, and drawings may not be spoiled, also leave to have the society of my friends. [Ibid. No. 38.]
March 5. Earl of Manchester to Lord Arlington. Being satisfied that it is the desire of the college, I give Edmond Smith leave to have a dispensation to capacitate him to be chosen Fellow of Queen's College, if his Majesty will grant a dispensation in regard to county. [Ibid. No. 39.]
March 5. The King to the [Vice-Chancellor] of Cambridge. We recommend Thos. Williams, who has for some time past attended our Royal person, and shown singular knowledge in compounding medicines, to the degree of M.D., without fees or exercises, dispensing with our letter of 15 July last, or any other statute to the contrary. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 19, p. 98.]
[March 5.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 40.]
March 5. The King to the Dean, &c., of Salisbury. We recommend Gabriel Thistlethwaite, a kinsman of Sir Edw. Hungerford, to the first vacant prebend in that cathedral, he being a person of good note and quality, and Sir Edward, who has sued for him, deserving well for his loyalty. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 19, p. 99.]
[March 5.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 41.]
March 5. Approbation of John Ashburnham and 8 others, as deputylieutenants for Sussex. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 20, p. 196.]
March 5. Approbation of Lord Widdrington and 10 others, as deputylieutenants for Northumberland. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 5. Approbation of the Mayor and 5 others, as deputy-lieutenants for Newcastle. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 5.
Whitehall.
Warrant for renewal of the commission of 20 Oct. last, for establishing a Council of Trade, adding thereto the Earls of Devonshire and Sandwich, George, Viscount Halifax, and George, Lord Berkeley, of Berkeley Castle; with a clause confirming the acts of the former Commission. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 92.]
March 5. Sec. Trevor to the Treasury Commissioners. His Majesty wishes you to issue orders for Sir Wm. Temple, Ambassador at the Hague, to have the same allowance of 10l. a day which has been established for Ambassadors at the Northern courts. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 49.]
March 5. Warrant for a pardon to Theophilus Birkenhead from burning in the hand, to which he was condemed at the Old Bailey sessions, for manslaughter of Rob. Brookes, committed under foul provocation. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 28, f. 21.]
March 5. Pass for 3 horses to France for Francis Cole. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 116.]
March 5. Warrant for the Half-Moon, an English prize ship, to be entered and registered. Minute. [Ibid., f. 117.]
[March 5.] Pedigree of the Howard family from Sir Rob. Howard, who married Margaret, heiress of Thos. Mowbray, [first] Duke of Norfolk, in its several branches. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 41a.]
March 5.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a grant to Lord Henry Howard, brother to the Duke of Norfolk, of the dignity of Baron Howard of Castle Rising, Norfolk. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 117.]
[March 5.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 42.]
March [5]. Docquet of the above. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 25.]
March 5. Warrant to Sir George Carteret to pay 3,000l. to John, Lord Robartes, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, towards his equipage and preparations for that employment, the same to be allowed him on his accounts. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 117.]
March 5. Pass for Nicholas Bryan, his wife and 9 children, to Germany Minute. [Ibid.]
March 5. Pass for 16 coach-horses and geldings to France for Lord Arundel of Wardour, custom free. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 43.]
March 5. Minute of the above. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 116.]
March 5. Warrant to Sir Harbottle Grimstone, Master of the Rolls, to permit Joseph Williamson, Keeper of State Papers, to peruse and transcribe all leagues, treaties, &c., within the Chapel of the Rolls, without paying any fees, and to make use of all indexes, calendars, and repertories for furthering the same. Minute. [Ibid.]
[March 5.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 44.]
March 5. Similar warrant for him to peruse the Records in the Exchequer. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 117.]
March 5. Draft of the above 2 entries. [Ibid.]
March 5. Warrant to pay to the Duke of York from the Exchequer 2,250l., being the annuity for three quarters of a year of the 3,000l. a year granted him for maintenance of his children, the said annuity to be paid in future from the sums saved by the reduction of the officers of excise. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 19.]
March 6.
London.
Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. Mr. Longland, my agent at Leghorn, has solicited Sir Thos. Allin, Capt. [Rob.] Robinson in the Ruby, and Capt. [Fras.] Digby in the Montague, to receive part of the provisions remaining there, but they have all refused, pretending they have no orders to receive them. I request an order that the first ships which arrive may receive them or transport them to Tangiers, so as to prevent their total loss, and further charge of warehouse room, &c. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 45.]
March 6.
Victualling Office.
Thos. Lewis to the Navy Commissioners. Nathaniel Butler, formerly purser of the Amity, brought his papers for passing his accounts, among which was a certificate of the leakage of 77 gallons of brandy, on which he took an affidavit; I gave him a certificate that he was somewhat a creditor, in order that he might receive his wages, but Sir John Mennes refused it, whereupon I returned the papers to the purser, and said that unless he could get it allowed, his account would not be balanced. He came to this office 10 days since, with Mr. Jones, the solicitor, who demanded why he was set down in the list of pursers in debt, having his certificate that he had cleared. I reminded him that misreckoning was no payment, and that an error was no plea for not clearing his account, and tore up the certificate I had given him. [Ibid. No. 46.] Annexing,
Petition of Nath. Butler to the Navy Commissioners, that he may not be put to any trouble in his account, having passed it as purser of the Amity, for her voyage to Guinea, and produced to them Mr. Lewis's certificate, which Lewis afterwards tore in pieces, and petitioner is thereby become liable for the whole account. With order by Lord Brouncker that Mr. Lewis is to satisfy the Board of the truth of what is alleged in the petition. [Ibid. No. 46I.]
Thos. Lewis to William Hewer. I send a return to the petition of Nath. Butler, and an account of the state of the balance.—6 March 1669. [Ibid. No. 46II.]
Debtor and creditor account of Nath. Butler. With note that if the brandy alleged to have been lost by leakage, and which amounted to 6l. 18s. 4½d., had been allowed, he would have been a creditor for 5l. 17s. 8d. [Ibid. No. 46III.]
Account of men borne on board the Amity frigate, and of provisions, &c., received, and returned; with the amounts debited and credited to Butler, purser, from Jan. 1660 to Jan. 1662. [Ibid. No. 46iv.]
March 6.
Newcastle.
Capt. John Wettwang to the Navy Commissioners. Will assist [Hum.] Pibus in shipping the masts for Deptford, after the great fleet has come, if the weather proves fit. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 47.]
March 6.
Whitehall.
M. Wren to Pepys. As the Duke is going out of town, is there any further order required from him with respect to the William, or any other order necessary to be despatched? [Ibid. No. 48.]
March 6.
Ordnance Office.
Edw. Sherburne and Rich. March to Pepys. Having given command to take away all the guns lying upon the wharf at Woolwich, we desire you to order that the skids they lie upon may be delivered, and go with them. [Ibid. No. 49.]
March 6. Account of work done in [Thos.] Turner's house at Crutched Friars, amounting to 8l. 5s. 1d. With note that it was concluded unfit to be laid upon the King, it being done without the Navy Commissioners' order or knowledge, and that Mr. Turner's removal was by his own desire, and to his own advantage. [Ibid. No. 50.]
March 6. The King to the Master and Senior Fellows of St. John's College, Cambridge. We recommend John Masters, B.A. of that college, third son of Sir Edw. Masters, who suffered much for loyalty, for the first vacant fellowship there. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book19, p. 100.]
March 6. Letter to the President, &c., of Queens' College, Cambridge, to allow Edmund Smith, B.A., to stand candidate for a fellowship, although the number of persons appointed by statute from the county of Suffolk, where he was born, is filled up. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 6. Pass for 7 horses to France for Colonel [John] Strode. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 117.]
March 6. Grant to Dr. Chris. Wren, LL.D., of the office of Deputy Surveyor of Works in the Tower, and other the King's residences, at request of Sir John Denham, Surveyor, on account of his weakness. [Ibid. f. 118.]
[March 6.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 50A.]
March 6.
Whitehall.
Recommendation to the Treasury Commissioners of the petition of Ralph Folyard, for his arrears of 5 years, due Midsummer last, the King being much troubled that a person so near in attendance about his own person, and honest and assiduous in his service, should be so far in arrear. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 12.]
March 6.
Whitehall.
Reference to the Treasury Commissioners of the petition of Wm. Gorsuch, deputy bailiff for Woodstock Manor and Wootton Hundred, for repayment of 146l. 4s. 2d., laid out by him in repairing the manor house. [Ibid. p. 14.]
March 6.
Whitehall.
Reference to the Duke of York of the petition of Wm. Howard, for the ship Friezland, lying in Chatham river, much strained in her hulk, without masts, and not worth repair. [Ibid.]
March 6. Wm. Blathwait to Williamson. I send the 270 figures asked for, and hope they will be approved; I could not get them before. They are 2 sous each, coming to 27 florins; if 500 were bought, M. Blasu would take 1½ sous each. I have not yet met with the books you asked me for. [French. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 51.]
March 6.
Bristol.
Jo. Fitzherbert to Williamson. Several ships outward bound have been driven back with damage. The Talent from Cadiz reports that Sir Thos. Allin is before Algiers; that of the English ships lately rifled, only 2 were carried into Algiers, and that when the rest of the Algiers men arrive there, it is reported that the captains will lose their heads, for giving the English such great abuse. Other English merchant ships have been used very cruelly by their men-of-war, without the least sign of discontent. [Ibid. No. 52.]
March 6.
Lyme.
Ant. Thorold to Hickes. The Charles from Havre de Grace reports that they have bettered their harbour, and can now receive ships of great burthen; also that they are making dry and wet docks, and are very active in raising men, and fitting ships for the relief of Candia. [Ibid. No. 53.]
March 6. William, Lord Willoughby, to Lord [Arlington]. I have adjusted the disposal of the 200l., and send the names of 21 officers concerned, with the amount each is to receive. [1½ pages. Ibid. No. 54.]
March 7. Same to Williamson. Lord Arlington desires you to write to the Treasury Commissioners about the 200l. intended for Major Needham and his distressed company, a list of which, and of the distribution according to my judgment, he has already received. His Lordship spoke to Lord Ashley and Mr. Treasurer about paying the same into my hands, but I shall employ Capt. Ennis in my stead, who will obey Lord Arlington's commands. [Ibid. No. 55.]
March 7.
Milford.
John Powell to Hickes. A ship arrived last week from the Canaries, laden with wines for London, and two ships for the Barbadoes. [Ibid. No. 56.]
March 7.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Nonsuch has arrived from the Downs to have a new mainmast, her present one being too small. The Expedition and Little Victory from the Straits are at Spithead. [Ibid. No. 57.]
March 7.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. There have 20 sail of light ships arrived from Ipswich, &c. [Ibid. No. 58.]
March 7. Information by John Thursby and John Bowman, constables of Gateshead, given on oath before Isaac Basire, D.D., of 13 persons named, who were present at a conventicle at Sam. London's house in Gateshead, on Sunday, 7 March, 1669. [Copy. Ibid. No. 59.]
March 7.
Thribergh.
Sir John Reresby to Williamson. Pray procure either a mandate or the King's letter, in favour of my youngest brother, Yarburgh Reresby. He is a scholar of St. John's, Cambridge, and capable of a fellowship now void, and intends standing a trial at the election on 25 March; but having a competitor in the same capacity, who is the President's quondam sizer, he has nothing to balance it. Dr. [Peter] Gunning is master, and his tutor is [Thos.] Watson, whose letter I have enclosed, to show you his proficiency. [S.P. Dom, Car. II. 257, No. 60.]
March 8. Warrant to the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to order Sir John Curzon, receiver, to pay 750l. to John Hall, after the 1,500l. ordered for the Navy. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 118.]
[March 8.] Note of alterations suggested in a grant to Mr. Hall. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 61.]
March 8. Petition of Capt. Rich. Mynors to the King, for licence to navigate a small ship to the East Indies, his estate and family being there, on security to the company not to meddle in commerce. Served the late King, and being obliged, on surrender of Colchester, to leave the kingdom, served the East India Company. Was a commander of ships in the late naval war. [Ibid. No. 62.]
[March 8.] Petition of Chris. Barker to the King, for letters mandatory for the next beadle's place vacant in Cambridge University. Has been sequestered 20 years, and been a great sufferer for his loyalty, to the utter ruin of his estate and family, and has no way left to support himself, but by his Majesty's grace. Was formerly a member of the University, and is capable for the office solicited. [Ibid. No. 63.]
March 8. Earl of Manchester to Lord Arlington. I permit Chris. Barker to have his Majesty's recommendation for the next vacancy, if he shall be pleased to grant his letters. [Ibid. No. 64.]
March 8. Wm. Dugdale to Williamson. I recommend the bearer, who has been employed at the Tower in transcribing records, and understands the abbreviations, and has skill enough to make good Latin. I think he will be fit for what you desire. [Ibid. No. 65.]
March 8. John Page to Williamson. Mr. Crouch will carry the packet for Sir Thos. Allin to St. Sebastian's or Madrid; to encourage him to go, I promised him to attend you, but not being able to see you after waiting 3 hours, I beg a line. I know of a ship bound for Cadiz, if you intend sending by sea, and I have requested Mr. Crouch to wait until the return of the post for instructions. I have a great part of my estate in Spain, so I beg, if it runs any hazard, which is much feared, that you will let me know. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 66.]
March 9.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to Hickes. A ship bound for Cadiz put in here, having lost her topmast, &c., in a storm. The Prince of Tuscany is expected. [Ibid. No. 67.]
March 9.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. No ships have left the harbour, but several have arrived. [Ibid. No. 68.]
March 9.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to [Williamson]. There are in the Downs 5 ships, bound for Lisbon, Malaga, Bordeaux, &c. [Ibid. No. 69.]
March 9.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to Rob. Francis. I suppose Mr. Williamson has received my articles of complaint against Marsh. Pray remind him of them, and also of my petition; I judge one article alone will be sufficient to dismiss [Barth.] Marsh. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 70.]
March 9/19.
Calais.
Father Patrick Ma Ginn to [Williamson]. I have arrived safe at Calais, after being detained 4 days and nights at sea by fogs and bad winds, and am almost recovered in health. Pray despatch the King's letter for my brother, he being at my expense all the while he stays; Mr. Barker will pay the fees. I have written to Sir R. Beeling to mind [you] in the business with the Queen. [Ibid. No. 71.]
March 9. Roger Eastwood to the Navy Commissioners. Has made and set the mast of the Nonsuch with a New England tree, her former one having been a Gottenburg mast. [Ibid. No. 72.]
March 9.
Woolwich.
Edw. Byland to Pepys. Will put the 2 ships proposed in hand, and sends a demand for fitting them, and entering more men. Queries about sheathing the Foresight, docking the Jersey, and launching the Garland. Gave Col. Middleton an account of the bricklayers' works. [Ibid. No. 73.]
March 10.
Ordnance Office.
Fras. Nicholls and Edw. Sherburne to the Navy Commissioners. Ask the number and nature of the guns to be carried by the William merchant ship, fitting as a man-of-war, having received order from the Duke of York to supply her. [Ibid. No. 74.]
March 10.
Woolwich.
W. Hannam to the Navy Commissioners. You wish me to certify the condition of Woolwich where the ships lie afloat; the river has now grown so ill, that I judge it not safe for the Falcon to take in her provisions and guns here, but at Halfwaytree, where she may receive them. [Ibid. No. 75.]
March 10.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Hickes. There are 40 sail of merchantmen in port outward bound. I have had no letter from Mr. Williamson this 3 or 4 posts. If he will not write, I shall forbear writing any more. [Ibid. No. 76.]
March 10.
Dover.
Jo. Carlile to Williamson. I saw Esquire Murray on board the packet-boat, and believe he got over in 4 hours. Our Ambassador, with a small retinue, has arrived at Calais, and intends furnishing himself with Frenchmen. [Ibid. No. 77.]
March 10.
Post Office.
A. Ellis to Williamson. Not finding any packet for Spain from Mr. Page, I procured a cover from him, and a few lines recommending the packet to his correspondent; and that the boat might not depart till the express should arrive, I stayed the mail till six. [Ibid. No. 78.]
March 10.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to Williamson. The Little Victory, a fireship, has been sent home by Sir Thos. Allin, with stores for Greenwich House; it is reported she is full of rich merchant goods. [Ibid. No. 79.]
March 10.
Weymouth.
John Pocock to Hickes. A ship has arrived from St. Malo, with the report that a great fleet is preparing for the Newfoundland fishery. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 80.]
March 10.
Yarmouth.
Rich. Bower to Williamson. We hear of daily losses by the late storms, several ships belonging to Yarmouth having been cast away, and nearly all their men drowned. Two vessels have come in. [Ibid. No. 81.]
March 10.
Bridekirk.
George Williamson to Jos. Williamson. Having to pay Mr. Stewart 300l. on the 15th, may I expect anything from my cousin Lamplugh ? and how will he pay the consideration for the school, which will then be due? I will preserve your credit and my bond. I cannot hear what my defalcations will amount to; pray speak to Capt. Cock that all may be cleared.
I cannot find a person here who has instruments to survey Milbeck as you would have it, but can have the ground surveyed directly, and can take in the situation of the adjacent parts, with the woods, mountains, islands, and rivers. I am getting a pair of millstones to the mill, and intend to build up the old dovecot and other decayed houses, that a farmer may have encouragement to take it. I intend keeping it this year by way of stewardship, to see what can be made of it. I will attend you in a few days with all the writings. [Ibid. No. 82.]
March 10. Warrant confirming the payment from the Excise and new impost of the wages for 7¼ years past of the officers of Excise, amounting to 10,800l., some doubt having arisen whether they should not have been paid from the Exchequer; also authorising the future payment from the Excise of 500l. a year to John Birch, auditor of Excise; 200l. a year to 3 clerks; and 500l. and 240l. a year to Elias Ashmole, comptroller. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 20.]
March 10. Warrant to pay to Sir Denis Gauden, Victualler of the Navy, 9l. surplus of his account for provisions sent to Dunkirk garrison in 1661, according to privy seal, and to pass his accounts, though their nature was not the same as that directed by privy seal. [Ibid. No. 21.]
March 10. Warrant to pay to Sir Denis Gauden 28,000l. for providing sea victuals for 5,000 seamen for 6 months, from 1 Jan. last. [Ibid.]
March 10. Order granting the petition of Sir Charles Cotterell, master of the ceremonies, that his son, Clement Cotterell, may have a grant of the reversion of the office, as the petitioner had when Sir Balthazar Gerbier was master, and that meanwhile he may have leave to travel, in order to fit himself for its better accomplishment. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 14.]
March 11. Rice Freeman, purser of the Hampshire, to the Navy Commissioners. It is more than 7 years since I was appointed purser of the Bear, and 4 years after that, purser of the Hampshire; in all this time no complaint has been exhibited against me, notwithstanding the many accidents the late war exposed me to, being forced to supply the ship, and the sick and wounded, with necessaries out of my own purse, which you will find by papers sent. If you cannot help me, pray state my case to his Royal Highness, that I may be paid my bills and extra necessary money, my ship being ordered for sea. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 83.]
March 12.
Wareham.
Thos. Adamson to Rob. Francis. I delayed writing, expecting you would have been at Newmarket with my lord. The old gentlewoman is in a very dangerous condition, and time should not be delayed. Capt. Crane and Mr. Cambridge dined this day with me at Mrs. Moundeford's; he is on his way to Stoney-in-the-Fen with Mr. Blake. Pray observe my former letter, and see the old gentlewoman, by whom you will be kindly welcomed, and by the young one no less. Pray deliver the letters enclosed. [Ibid. No. 84.]
March 12. Sir Edm. Jennings to [Williamson]. A difference having arisen between a common brewer at Leeds and the officers of Excise, which had to be determined by the Mayor and aldermen, and they not satisfying the ends of the excisemen as they desired, complaint has been made to Council, and the Mayor and Alderman Lawson have been sent for, to answer for something said or done prejudicial to the King's service. As they are private persons, and strangers to the Lords of the Council, they conceive they may suffer under some undeserved character, by misrepresentations. I having been long acquainted with them, must represent them fairly as persons of unblemished loyalty, of right principles, and not a little instrumentally active towards his Majesty's restoration, which is well known to most of the country; if there is occasion, they may have the testimony of all the justices of the peace and gentlemen in the country. They wish to rectify the frequent insolences and abuses committed by Excise officers. Pray represent them fairly to Lord Arlington, that they may not be prejudiced at the Council table.
Endorsed is a note from Jonathan Jennings to Williamson. I take the convenience of my brother's letter to renew our French acquaintance, and to assure you that what he writes about the loyalty of the persons now impeached is true, and I could give particulars of their hazarding life and fortune for the restoration. [Ibid. No. 85.]
March 12.
London.
James Hickes to Williamson. [Thos.] Burrowes of Kinsale has sent 3 barrels of scollops as presents to you, to your clerks, and to me. I want letters to the Bristol postmaster to forward them. I am ill with a violent cold. [Ibid. No. 86.]
March 12.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to Hickes. There are 10 or 12 ships in port, waiting for a fair wind to sail for Spain, Portugal, &c.; one vessel has arrived from Bilbao, laden with lemons and oranges. [Ibid. No. 87.]
March 12.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. There have 30 ships arrived; the laden fleet sailed on Wednesday, but put back again by contrary winds. [Ibid. No. 88.]
March 13.
Easton [Manduit].
Sir Henry Yelverton [Bart.] to Williamson. Thanks for the news. The country is dull, and so many seditious reports are spread, that a little true news comforts us and prevents mischief. I hope Lady Thomond will persuade you into these parts, and I shall take it a particular kindness if a man of so great employment as you are could allow me some share of your company. If my park is of any service, I shall be obliged by your commands. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 89.]
[March 13.]
Saturday. Newmarket.
Sir Nich. Armorer to Williamson. There is some mistake in no horse coming for you. It is 4 a.m. and the King is going into his coach a-foxhunting. [Ibid. No. 90.]
March 13.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to [Williamson]. The ship had sailed before your packet arrived; shall I bring it back when I wait upon you next week, or leave it at Deal ? [Ibid. No. 91.]
March 13. Certificate by Rob. Mayors that the usual custom of making bolt reed in the river Thames is one ell, and one inch circumference. [Ibid. No. 92.]
March 13. Note of a remainder of 5,000l. still unpaid, on a nobleman's patent for 8,000l., to be paid by 250l. a quarter, and of 1,300l. still unpaid on a privy seal of 3,000l. for money lent the King at Worcester; sent to Madame Greaves, Durham Yard. [Ibid. No. 92A.]
March 13.
Whitehall.
Sir John Trevor to Attorney-General Palmer. I desire you to consider how far the law will countenance the prohibition of the importation of corn, and to prepare a proclamation thereon for Council, the great quantities of grain now imported having occasioned a fall in the markets, to the great discouragement of husbandry. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 93.]
March 14. Prohibition to any person in Great Britain or Ireland, for 21 years, to epitomize or reprint a book on geography in 3 volumes folio, by Rich. Blome, of St. Clement Danes, Middlesex, illustrated with great variety of delightful and useful maps, schemes, and figures; or to copy or counterfeit any of the said maps or plates, without his approbation. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 155.]
March 14.
Portsmouth Yard.
Ben. Johnson to Williamson. I have been laid up with the gout, so could not write. The new Nonsuch is at Spithead, having had some alterations made to advance her sailing. The captain and officers are at London, about a difference between him and his lieutenant. The Dragon is fitting for the Mediterranean; the new ship goes on apace, care being taken for supplying the stores with timber. The Fairfax and Advice are in hand, and the dock is in good forwardness for 2 others. The yard has been paid the first quarter in arrear, and the men are now paid monthly. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 93.]
March 14.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Nonsuch has set her new masts, the former proving too slender, which Sir L. von Hemserat makes his plea for not performing his promise to his Majesty, of her sailing 3 feet for 2 to any other of his ships. [Ibid. No. 94.]
March 15.
Milford.
John Powell to Williamson. A vessel has arrived at Tenby from St. Martin's in France, and reports that the French King is very rigid to the Protestants, and has summoned them to depart in a certain time, on pain of imprisonment and confiscation, and that he is putting the summons into execution. Other vessels have come in from places named. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 95.]
March 15. Same to Hickes. To the same effect. [Ibid. No. 96.]
March 15.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Williamson. Several ships have been forced back by contrary winds. The Morning Star has come in, and reports that she was met off Cadiz by an Algiers man-of-war of 30 guns, well manned, who came on board and demanded a Moorish boy that they had; having found him, they carried him to their own ship, and by beating him upon the soles of his feet, and other torments, made him confess to much money on board the Star, which they came and took, amounting to 8,000l. or 10,000l. The captain told them that they had broken the articles, and that he would go to Algiers or Lisbon to report it; so they prevented him by keeping him company 8 or 10 days, to watch him until he was sufficiently out of his way. They carried the Moor away with them. [1¾ pages. Ibid. No. 97.] Annexing,
Particulars of the boarding of the Morning Star, freighted by the East India Company for the East Indies, by the Golden Rose, a Turkish man-of-war, who came on board under pretence of searching for Spanish passengers and goods; finding none, they took the master's and boatswain's boys aboard their own vessel, and drubbed one of them on his feet till they made him confess what they would have of him; and having opened the company's letters, and perused their bill of lading, &c., they came again on board, and by force and violence took away 2,571 ounces of gold and 2 chests of silver, in ryals of eight, containing 8,000 pieces in Spanish. coin, and afterwards prevented the captain from putting in either at Tangier or Cadiz, so that he might not send intelligence to England, threatening to carry him a prisoner to Algiers if he did not go on his voyage; thus they made him sail beyond the Canaries, and there they left him. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 97I.]
March 15. Thos. Holden to Hickes. To the same effect. [Ibid. No. 98.]
March 15.
Pendennis.
Fras. Bellott to Williamson. Several ships are in port waiting wind and weather; upwards of 20 put out, but many were forced back. The Morning Star has come in with many misfortunes; having spent her mast at the Lizard, she was forced into Plymouth, and losing it again, put into Cadiz, after which she was met by a Turkish man-of-war, who dealt very severely with them. I leave the relation to Capt. Godolphin, who sent an express away 2 or 3 days since. [Ibid. No. 99.]
March 15.
Wareham.
Thos. Adamson to [Francis]. I beg to assure you to the contrary of what you write, and account myself happier in the enjoyment of your acquaintance than of any other person I have met for many years. I wish you could come here this week, or you will scarcely see the old lady alive; and as she desires to see you, I hope you will not fail of coming. The assizes will be held on the 22nd, and I would gladly see you before then. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 100.]
March 15.
Monday.
Vere Williamson to Mrs. Ferguson, Clerkenwell, near the Duke of Newcastle's. Thanks for your visit. Particulars of the illness of your servant, my son. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 100A. See Calendar 1667–8, p. 549.]
March 15.
Chester.
Ma. Anderton to Williamson. Sir Edw. Massey has arrived from London, and is on his way to Holyhead for Dublin. The Trial of Chester from Bilbao is kept in port by easterly winds. [Ibid. No. 101.]
March 15.
Yarmouth.
Rich. Bower to Williamson. There have 40 vessels set sail for London, and 2 fleets of light and laden colliers have passed through the road. A ketch of this town, laden with herrings and lead, has been lost off Majorca in the Straits. [Ibid. No. 102.]
March 15.
Yarmouth.
Nich. Wood to Williamson. I send an account of our proceedings for the week. We are informed that the merchants will be at home within 2 months, when things will mend. Those that venture, if they get a little, go their way with it. [Ibid. No. 103.]
March 15.
Woolwich.
Wm. Bodham to the Navy Commissioners. Has received 6 lasts of good Stockholm tar from John Stacy, and sends the bill. Wants 6 lasts more to tar the yarn spun, and wishes it suddenly, for fear the lower part of the pile should be damnified by the moisture of the floor. [Ibid. No. 104.]
March 16.
Kinsale.
Capt. Rob. Hooper, of the Harp, to the Navy Commissioners. I am sorry the men under my command make so many petitions about the unableness of the frigate for service, none of which I know anything about. I have acquainted you that she wanted some repairs, which if done here, I shall be able to come to England if you command it. [Ibid. No. 105.] Annexed,
Shorthand notes of information with reference to the condition of the ship, between July and Nov. 1668. [Ibid. No. 105I.]
March 16.
Woolwich.
Edw. Byland to Col. Thos. Middleton. Repairs of ships named. Fears it will be long before the provisions demanded are received. Begs he will be mindful of them, and send a supply of calkers and bricklayers. [Ibid. No. 106.] Encloses,
Note by the same to the same. Will draw up particulars about making the Royal James into a hulk, and with the assistance of Mr. Shish, value the charge. [Ibid. No. 106I.]
March 16. Reference commending to the Treasury Commissioners the petition of Mary Blague, for his Majesty's fourth part of a discovery of lands made by — Sharpe, the King retaining a gracious sense of the merit and service of her late husband and of the straits in which she was left by his death. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 18, p. 306.]
March 16.
Paris.
Sir Thos. Bond to [Williamson]. I would have assisted [John] Swaddell had his stay here been longer. I shall take it as a great favour when you lay your commands upon me. I send 2 letters received for Swaddell after he had left. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 107.]
March 16.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to Hickes. Two small vessels have arrived from France, laden with corn. The fleet detained here by contrary winds sailed yesterday. [Ibid. No. 108.]
March 17.
Brickhill.
H. Aldrich to his brother, Rob. Francis. We are here baiting our horses. Your sister is weary but well; we hope to be at Coventry to-morrow. Mr. Younger uses us very civilly; pray thank him for it. Send this enclosure to Mr. Cooke. [Ibid. No. 109.]
March 17.
Lincoln.
William, Bishop of Lincoln, to Williamson. I have been prevented by gout from doing my duty, or discoursing with or writing to you. I hope you will continue me in your thoughts, and remember me to Lord Arlington. I am now going to try how my legs will bear me. [Ibid. No. 110.]
March 17.
Coventry.
Ralph Hope to Williamson. The assizes began on Monday, when 2 of those that robbed Johnson the carrier, near Coleshill, were sentenced to be hanged. They are brothers, and called Berkenhead, and were taken in Oxfordshire upon another robbery. One was to have been hanged at Oxford last assizes, where the other would have run the same fate, but going upon bail, he did not appear. Two others condemned at Warwick, by the names of Herne and Sekerson, were brought from Oxford at the procurement of the county of Warwick, to be tried at Warwick, in hopes to prevent Johnson from recovering his losses of the country; they are condemned, but it is thought Herne will have a reprieve.
A woman was indicted for biting off a man's finger, of which he died, but she got off. The assizes were held this day at Coventry, but we are so wonderfully inclined to honesty and quietness, that not one malefactor was brought before the judges, and only 2 causes.
The Nonconformists continue to preach helter-skelter at the Leather Hall, where twice on every Sunday, they have a great confluence, to the depopulating of the churches. As the judges were sitting in the Hall at Warwick, the eldest son of Mr. Spooner of Hanwood Hall, a youth of 17, wishing to get a better view, climbed up to, and then fell from, one of the windows at the Crown bar, where Judge Broome was sitting, upon a spear or javelin which one of the sheriff's men had in his hand, which running into him somewhat above the navel, stuck in his backbone, so that he died immediately.
There has been a great noise for several days of a strange sound heard in a well belonging to one Nibbs, at Hill-Wotton near Warwick, the owner of which, as well as other persons, informed me that it was also heard in 1642, and continued for 14 days, and that it was also heard again on his Majesty's return. The noise is stated to be like the beating of drums in a march or call. [Ibid. No. 111.]
March 17.
Treasury Chambers.
Sir George Downing to Sam. Pepys. Sir Andrew Riccard, and some others of the East India Company, have again attended the Treasury Commissioners, about the business of the Leopard, not yet acquiescing to give full satisfaction for her, alleging that their order for her going to Cosheen [Cochin ?] was only concurrent to that of Lord Marlborough; also that his Majesty had remitted to the Dutch, by the late treaty, their pretence of satisfaction for hindering her in taking in her lading; the Commissioners have appointed to hear the business again on Monday, and desire you to be there with the papers. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 112.]
March 17.
Victualling Office.
Sir Denis Gauden to the Navy Commissioners. I send you an account of the issue, since January, upon this year's declaration for 5,000 men for 6 months; the remains of victuals in this port will be very inconsiderable, when I have answered the warrants already sent. Pray move his Royal Highness for a further declaration for the port of London, or to take off part from Portsmouth to add to this place. [Ibid. No. 113.] Encloses,
Account of sea victuals issued and to be delivered to ships named, according to warrants since Jan. 1669; with abstract of the remains in ports mentioned.—16 March 1669. [3 pages. Ibid. No. 113i.]
March 17.
Woolwich.
Wm. Acworth to the Navy Commissioners. I have not received one freight of timber from Aliceholt Forest since Michaelmas, but have received 182 loads or 4 freights from Whittlewood; it was transported from Birkhead and Hedworth by Chris. Andrews' barges. [Ibid. No. 114.]
March 18. Sir John Mennes to the Navy Commissioners. I am not insensible how much it stands with the honour of the Board to give the Commissioners of Accounts exact accounts of what they expect from us, as also how necessary it is that each member should do his utmost therein. I observe that you have branched out the same to each officer, and that my tax is as to the state of the stores in each yard, and elsewhere, on 2 Sept. 1664, what has been received since, and how it has been employed; to each of these I give my answers. [4 pages. Ibid. No. 115.] Encloses,
Account, by Sir John Mennes, of timber converted in forests named, and sent into the yards at Deptford and Woolwich, between 1663 and 1668. [Ibid. No. 115i.]
March 18.
Woolwich.
Edw. Byland to Pepys. Pray commiserate the condition of the anchor smith here, by ordering him some money, whereby he may be able to perform the duties of the place with cheerfulness; he is very much cast down, having a multiplicity of work in fitting ships, and not wherewithal to procure goods, or payment for his men. [Ibid. No. 116.]
March 18. Edw. Silvester to the Navy Commissioners. I beg an order to the Treasurers for payment of my bill for 98l. for mending anchors by contract at Portsmouth. I have other bills unpaid, but only crave this one. [Ibid. No. 117.]
March 18.
Jersey.
R. Manley to [Rob. Francis]. Your kind letter would expiate any crime; write when you can. I shall come to see you and my dear brother, when the Governor returns in April, and bring my wife to put our eldest girl to school. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 118.]
March 18.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Nonsuch remains at Spithead, waiting sailing orders; the Dragon is to be fitted out for the summer expedition. [Ibid. No. 119.]
March 18.
Wareham.
Thos. Adamson to [Francis]. The old gentlewoman, my dear friend, lies drawing on to her long-expected home, and I think she cannot continue 24 hours more. The young lady is much grieved to see her mother lie in such a condition; if you have begun your journey, you may see her alive, but I despair of it if you have not. [Ibid. No. 120.]
March 18. Sir Wm. Smith to Sir Alex. Frazer. I send my tenant's petition, and desire you to speak to Lord Arlington to get his Majesty's warrant for a pardon. He might be fined 10l. or 20l. for the crime, while the pardon will cost near 50l. to pass under the Great Seal, but it will restore his credit, and show his adversary that he has friends. Pray get it done before the term, and I will attend Mr. Williamson to satisfy the charges. He has been my tenant many years, and always dealt justly by me, which makes me the more willing to do what I can for him. [Ibid. No. 121.]
March 18.
Exeter House.
Lord Ashley to Lord Arlington. I send the draft of a privy seal, which has been drawn according to an agreement made between the Treasury Commissioners and Lady Dysart, but the warrant for passing it is more proper to be presented to his Majesty by one of the principal Secretaries. [Ibid. No. 122.]
March 18. Petition of Thos. Warren, merchant of London, to the King. By a contract with the late Emperor of Morocco, I was engaged to return him 700 barrels of powder, one half at 12 months, and the other at 2 years; but through the Dutch war and other detentions, the powder was not sent until October last, since which the Emperor has deceased, and his son has been cut off by the King of Tafilet. The powder is gone, with instructions by me to my factors, that in case Tafilet will pay the debts of the late Emperor due to me, and deliver up such English as I left there, they are to deliver him the powder, and all such subjects of his as were here; but if that is denied, they are to treat with him de novo for the sale of the powder, and also of the Moors, and for the redemption of the English there; and that failing, they are to sell the powder elsewhere.
Having learned that Lord Henry Howard is going out as Ambassador to the King of Tafilet, alias Moule-Errshed, and that it is moved that I should attend him, I am willing so to do; and it being uncertain what has been effected in relation to the powder, I desire on bond the loan for 12 months of 25 tons of saltpetre from the Ordnance Commissioners, at the price they have given to others, so that I may carry it with me, to prevent anything happening about the said powder to prejudice the designs intended by his Majesty to be effected by his Ambassador.
With order thereon that his Majesty is pleased to gratify the petitioner's request for the saltpetre, and that in consideration of future services expected from him, the Ordnance Commissioners are to allow him time for the delivery of 25 tons of saltpetre into the stores in lieu of it; but they are nevertheless to take good and sufficient security. [2½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 123.]
March 19.
Treasury Chambers, Whitehall.
Sir Geo. Downing to Wm. Wardour. The Treasury Commissioners desire you will certify them on Monday, what money the Earl of Bath has received out of the Exchequer, towards the fortifications of Plymouth, and upon what privy seals. [Ibid. No. 124.]
March 19.
Treasury Chambers.
Same to Wm. Wardour. The Commissioners desire an account on Wednesday of money paid into the Exchequer, on the additional aid and the 11 months' tax. [Ibid. No. 125.]
March 19.
Bridekirk.
Geo. Williamson to Williamson. I beg you to serve my friend and neighbour, Capt. Wilkes, who has sent his daughter by Robert Bowes of Cockermouth, to be touched for the evil, and procure her quick despatch. Mr. Bowes is famous for justifying the laws and statutes of the Excise, and is a pillar of the noble borough; so I doubt not but he will have a reception accordingly. [Ibid. No. 126.]
March 19.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. The laden fleet is still detained by the winds; 2 or 3 vessels have come in. [Ibid. No. 127.]
March 19.
Hull.
Chas. Whittington. Three vessels have sailed for Rotterdam, with lead, cloth, and rape seed, and several others for London, the greater part being laden with grain. [Ibid. No. 128.]
March 19.
Plymouth.
E. Andros to Williamson. The Roe ketch, sent with the Portland frigate to attend the Prince of Tuscany, has arrived, and reports that the Prince embarked from the Groyne on board the Portland on the 9th instant; but the ketch breaking her topsailyard, she lost sight of them, and supposes he will put into some port of Cornwall; if so, I shall take post and wait upon him. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 129.]
March 19 ? John Clarke to Williamson. One of his Majesty's ketches has arrived, bringing news that the Prince of Tuscany came out of the Groyne with her on the 9th instant in the Portland, but that she lost the Portland the next night. [Ibid. No. 129A.]
March 19. Caveat in favour of Joseph Williamson, that nothing pass of the estate of one Darcy, deceased without heirs. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 32, p. 3.]
March 20.
Victualling Office.
Sir Denis Gauden to the Navy Commissioners. I send a survey as to the leakage of beer in the Swallow ketch; for reasons stated, I judge I am not concerned therein. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 130.]
March 20. John Fenn to Lord Brouncker. I will pay the merchants the sums assigned upon the Customs, out of some remains promised me, if you will send them to me. The list is about 2,000l., which you said you might reduce, there being a bill of imprest of 500l. to your own officers. Pray make it as little as possible. [Ibid. No. 131.]
March 20. Report of Sir And. Richard, Governor, and the Company of Levant Merchants, to the King, that on taking the votes of the company, they decide for a provise to be inserted into their charter, that all residents within 20 miles of London should take the freedom of the city, before enjoying the benefit of the said charter. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 132.]
March ? Anne Cole to Lord [Arlington ?] I am in great distress by the death of Sir Ant. des Marces, for whose sake I contracted debts, which by his death being unpaid, I had to sell my plate, &c., and my very bed to pay them, and still cannot settle all. I pray for some part of the reward which your lordship was intending for Des Marces. [Ibid. No. 133.]
March 20. Warrant for a grant to Joseph Williamson and Luke Wilkes, of the estate of Sir Ant. des Marces, an alien, forfeited by his death. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 120.]
March 20. Warrant to the Lieutenant of the Tower for discharge of Sir William Coventry and Henry Saville. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 20. Commission to George, Duke of Albemarle, Anthony, Lord Ashley, Sir Thomas Clifford, and Sir John Duncombe to be Commissioners to execute the office of Treasurer of the Exchequer, on revocation of a former commission to the same and to Sir Wm. Coventry. [Ibid.]
March [20.] Docquet of the above. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 28.]
March 20.
Bristol.
Ja. Baskerville to Williamson. The Samuel and Mary has arrived from Lisbon, with sugars and oils, and a ketch from Bordeaux with French wines. Part of the Virginia fleet, and several other ships, are detained in the Channel by contrary winds. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 134.]
March 20. Sir Wm. Neale to Williamson. I hear from Col. Molesworth that my letter came to your hand, and was answered, but I never received yours. I find the Colonel is very ill, and therefore I beg your advice how to act in this business; I will be entirely directed by you. My address will be The Llay, near Wrexham. [Ibid. No. 135.]
March 20. Ant. Thorold to Hickes. The Concord has arrived from Rotterdam with wheat and rye, and reports of but little preparation for any fleet this spring, beyond some ships fitting up as convoys for the Straits. There is great fear of the death of the King of Spain, and of the French King coming to that Crown. [Ibid. No. 136.]
March 20.
Lyme Regis.
Giles Ivy to Williamson. Thanks for your letter. Judge [John] Archer was very kind in carrying on my trial, and did as much as he could, whereby I was acquitted, but must sue out my pardon again the next assizes; Judge Archer has promised to draw out a certificate to his Majesty on his return.
The Farmers of Customs having removed me to Lyme Regis to be their collector, I have put a deputy in the Post Office at Dartmouth, for whom I will be responsible to Lord Arlington, and will see the moneys properly remitted. I hope his lordship will not be offended about it. [Ibid. No. 137.]
March 20.
Deal.
Rich. Watts to Williamson. There are 2 Straits ships and some East Indiamen in the Downs. I intend for London to-morrow, but the letters may be sent as usual during my absence, and shall be sent on board. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 138.]
March 20.
Weymouth.
John Pocock to Hickes. The Providence has arrived from Lisbon with oils, and reports that Sir Thos. Allin renewed the peace with Algiers, and concluded it with Sally, so that 3 English ships that were there, laden with sugar on the Portuguese account, have proceeded on their voyage. [Ibid. No. 139.]
March 20.
Coventry.
Ralph Hope to Williamson. The corpse of the Duchess of Dudley was interred to-day at Stoneleigh. She was met by many coaches, and the chief of the city, and the ceremony was performed with great solemnity; after which several coaches, and a great company on horseback, attended Lady Leveston, her daughter, to Coventry, where she intends staying until Tuesday. By direction of the Duchess' will, 50l. was given to the poor of Stoneleigh, 50l. to Kenilworth, 5l. to every place where the corpse lodged on the road, and 6d. to every poor person that begged of them during their journey down.
Sekerston was hanged at Warwick yesterday, but Herne is reprieved. He formerly belonged to Lord Frescheville's troop, and was quartered in this town. He has impeached several others, and amongst the rest a goldsmith in London, who used to receive their plate; this, with the intercession of the ladies, was the means to get his reprieve. [Ibid. No. 140.]
March 21.
Whitehall.
Petition of Math. Sharpe and Abr. Hosmer, of Tunbridge, Kent, to the King John Sharpe, only son of Math. Sharpe, and son-inlaw of Abr. Hosmer, was convicted at Maidstone assizes for murder of George Whitfield, but is innocent, Whitfield having been killed by Wm. Browne discharging a pistol in Ashdowne's house at Tunbridge, where Browne went in to wash wounds he had before received from the deceased; John Sharpe having been desired to attend Browne home to his father's house, with a lantern and candle, was by that occasion accidentally standing by, and Browne escaping, the said John Sharpe and the petitioner Hosmer, were thereupon apprehended, tried, and convicted. The justices of the peace, commiserating the hardness of the case, moved Justice Morton therein, who granted a reprieve for 7 days, which expires on Friday next. They beg a further reprieve for John Sharpe, pending the report.
With reference thereon to Justice [Sir Wm.] Morton, and his report that, although he cannot admit the suggestions of the petition as alleged, yet his Majesty, being the fountain of mercy, may reprieve Sharpe till the next assizes, within which time he hopes that Browne, who shot Whitfield and killed him, may be apprehended and brought to justice.—22 March 1669. [Ibid. No. 141.] Annexing,
Certificate signed by Viscount Strangford, Sir Roger Twysden, and 21 other justices of the peace for Kent, that John Sharpe, convicted at the assizes for murder of George Whitfield, is a very proper object for his Majesty's mercy.— 19 March, Maidstone. [Ibid. No. 141i.]
March 21.
Newcastle.
Rich. Forster to Williamson. Departure of the laden fleet; no ships have come in. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 142.]
March 21.
Wareham.
Thos. Adamson to Rob. Francis. The good old gentlewoman departed this life this morning like a Christian. I am assured she had great kindness for you, and I hope your early presence will console the young lady, who much feels her mother's death, Pray obtain leave for 5 days. We shall bury her to-morrow. [Ibid. No. 143.]
March 21.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Nonsuch is riding at Spithead, waiting for her commander from London. [Ibid. No. 144.]
March 21. Justice Sir Wm. Morton to Williamson. Pray insert the name of Claude Devall, and 16 others, as notorious highwaymen and robbers, in the next Gazette;I know them to be guilty of several offences, but those in the last paragraph are not to be exposed till next Thursday, as I have emissaries out to take them. [Ibid. No. 145.]
March 21. Warrant for payment of a debt of 4,800l. to Elizabeth, Countess of Dysart, from the customs of tonnage and poundage in August and Sept. 1670 and Sept. 1671. [Ibid. No. 146.]
March 21. Entry of the above. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 122.]
March [21]. Docquet of the above. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 28.]
March 21. James Hickes to Williamson. When you deliver my petition to Lord Arlington for presentation to the King, speak to him on my behalf. Had I enlarged on my services, as I justly might have done, it would have been a volume too big; but no man living has done so much, or deserved more, as was manifested in the great visitation. Whatever be the issue of the petition, I shall abide by your will in all things. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 147.]
March 22.
Treasury Chambers.
Sir George Downing to Pepys. You are to give the Treasury Commissioners satisfaction on Friday, how it comes to pass that 1,250l. is set down in Sir Denis Gauden's account for provision for sick and wounded on board the fleet, when his Royal Highness was there in person, whereas care was taken of them by the Commissioners for sick and wounded. [Ibid. No. 148.]
March 22. Pass for Lord Cavendish to France or Holland, on his private business. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 121.]
March 22. Warrant for reprieve of John Sharpe, convicted of the murder of George Whitfield at Maidstone Assizes, Judge Morton certifying him to be a fit object of mercy. [Ibid.]
March 22. Warrant for a grant to Sir John Knyvet, Bart., of the estate of —Honeywood, forfeited by his attainder. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 149.]
March 22. Minute of the above. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 121.]
March 22. Reference to the Treasury Commissioners of the petition of Chris. Hildyard of York, for a patent for the stewardship of St. Mary's, York. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 14.]
March 22. Reference to the Treasury Commissioners of the petition of Sir Rich. Ottley, for a grant of such treasure trove as he shall discover; with proviso that it be without undue molestation of the King's subjects. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 14.]
March 22. List of 21 Lent preachers, from 5 Feb. to Easter Day, 22 March 1669. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 150.]
March 22.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. No news, all being still and quiet. [Ibid. No. 151.]
March 22.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Hickes. Several ships came in from Yarmouth and other places, bound for France, and have put to sea again. It is reported that Sir Thos. Allin has been poisoned in the Straits. [Ibid. No. 152.]
March 22.
Pendennis.
Fras. Bellott to Williamson. The ships that were in harbour have gone out, and some 30 or 40 sail have come in. [Ibid. No. 153.]
March 22.
Yarmouth.
Rich. Bower to Williamson. A great fleet of 400 or 500 laden colliers has passed through the road from Sunderland and Newcastle. The new meeting-place being found too little to contain the people that flock thither, they are erecting 3 fair galleries; their minister is Mr. Barker, late minister of Aye [Eye ?]. [Ibid. No. 154.]
March 22. Wm. Wardour to [Williamson]. I find by the records in my office, that two sums of 300l. and 336l. 19s. have been paid to the Earl of Bath, by privy seal, for the fortifications at Plymouth; but what is registered in Sir Rob. Long's office to be paid does not appear to me. [Ibid. No. 155.]
March 22. Memorandum that John Cole of Sutton, Isle of Ely, was one of Cromwell's captains, and a justice of the peace; and that John Herne of Godmanchester, co. Hunts, is a justice of the peace and a councillor, to whom the letter was shown. With note by Williamson that they be sent for to attend the Board. [Ibid. No. 156.]
March 23. Statement of the case in the question between the members of the Temple and the Lord Mayor, relative to the claim of the former to be exempted from the jurisdiction of the City; being the "defence of the gentlemen Templars" as to the antiquity and validity of their claim. [3½ pages. Ibid. No. 157.]
[March 23.] Notes [by Williamson] thereon. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 158.]
March 23.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to Hickes. The Portland frigate has arrived with the Prince of Tuscany, who was received, on landing, with all the respect imaginable, bells ringing, guns firing, &c. [Ibid. No. 159.]
March 23.
Plymouth.
E. Andros to Williamson. The Prince of Tuscany has arrived; meeting with easterly winds after he left the Groyne, he put in at Kinsale, where he landed, and lay there 2 nights, and one night at Scilly. At his landing here, Sir John Skelton met and welcomed him, and the garrison made a guard from the water side to his lodgings at a merchant's house. He has about 30 in his train, has been about the town of Plymouth, and is much pleased with his voyage. He was going on the water to see the harbour, but a sudden gust, with great flakes of snow, caused him to re-land. He speaks of riding 8 or 9 miles to see some tin mines, and what is about the town. I believe he will leave on Friday, and stay in some good towns as he goes along, making easy journeys. He has sent most of his baggage by the Roe ketch to London; the rest is carried upon 7 horses hired from Plymouth. He has 5 persons of quality with him, and I am also with him in the nature of an attendant. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 160.]
March 23.
Queen's College, Oxford.
Tim. Halton to Williamson. Dr. Yerbury fearing that the President has done him an unkindness, in misrepresenting to Lord Arlington or you what took place at the late reference at Farnham, about the mandamus procured for Chambers, I desire you would send word what you think of this business. Did you receive my letter about my debtor at Dantzic? [Ibid. No. 161.]
March 23. Petition of Sir Rob. Holmes, Governor of the Isle of Wight, to the King. In pursuance of your commands, I have examined the condition of the castles and forts here, and find your house at Carisbrooke Castle, and the castles at Cowes and Yarmouth, totally out of repair; Carisbrooke has no officer there but myself, and only 7 men, 5 of whom are sixpenny pays and 2 eightpenny; at the 2 latter castles are 4 men each, 3 being sixpenny and one eightpenny pay, but neither have any officer, without which I cannot answer for the security of so considerable a frontier. I beg order for the speedy repair of the castles and forts, and for an officer, with a suitable number of men, to be appointed to each of them. [Ibid. No. 162.] Annexing,
Summary of necessaries required for the purposes mentioned. I request an allowance of 20s. a day towards the maintenance of 4 lieutenants and 4 gunners at the castles and forts; the command of an independent company for better security of the forts; also my own maintenance, having nothing for the support of my government but what I have purchased with my own money; also an order to the Treasury Commissioners for 1,000l. towards the repairs, which money shall be advanced until they can raise it. [Ibid. No. 162i.]
March 23.
Deal.
Sir W. Godolphin to Williamson. I have just arrived here, and as I know not how long I shall contemplate the sea on land, the wind being S.E., I hope you will overtake me with any fresh commands, and put me once more at Lord Arlington's feet, before I embark. Mr. Lodge has obeyed the recommendation, and is a civil person. [Ibid. No. 163.]
[March 23.] Names and addresses of 4 persons connected with the robbery of the Northern mail. [Ibid. No. 164.]
March 23. Rich. Coling to Williamson. M. le Fevre being dead, and he having had a grant of the reversion of the place of Apothecary to the Household, which is in the gift of the Lord Chamberlain, he desires that no warrant may pass for it, until he has received notice. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 165.]
March 23.
Court at Whitehall.
Warrant to Lord Chamberlain Manchester, to admit Christian Harrell as operator in chemistry and apothecary in ordinary, in place of Nicasius le Fevre, with all rights, &c., thereto belonging. [Ibid. No. 166.]
March 23. Commission to Henry Collyer to be lieutenant to Capt. Thos. Stradling's company of foot, in Col. John Russell's regiment of guards. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 29, p. 31.]
March 24.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a grant to Thos. Williams, M.D., and Rich. Hewet, of the office of examiners and registrars to the Commissioners of Bankrupts in the city and suburbs of London, John Bolles and two others appointed thereto by the late King being deceased. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 94.]
March 24. The King to the Master and senior Fellows of Christ's College, Cambridge. We were greatly offended by your choosing another into a fellowship in spite of our mandate for Chas. Fanshaw, but we passed it by, as there was some little pretence for your non-compliance. We repeat our former directions for Fanshaw to be chosen to the next fellowship, notwithstanding any mandate or letter, custom or statute, to the contrary. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 19, p. 101.]
March 24. Warrant to the surveyor and officers of works, &c., to make an additional allowance of 300l. a year to Hugh May, comptroller of the Works, as a mark of the King's gracious acceptance of his services. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, p. 122.]
[March 24.] Draft of the above. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 167.]
March 24. The King to the University of Cambridge. We recommend Chris. Barker to the first vacant beadle's place in the University, on account of his own and his son's services and sufferings. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 19.]
March 24. The King to the Treasury Commissioners. We remitted the custom on 30 tuns of wine, half French, half Spanish, imported by order of Condé de Molina, Spanish Ambassador; we hear that you have stopped the intended grant, as contrary to a late order of Council, against allowance of wine custom-free to public Ministers; but desiring particularly to gratify the said Condé, we order you to sign a docquet for delivery of the said wines. [Ibid. f. 20.]
March 24. Examination of Elizabeth, wife of Thos. Heath, of Brewers' yard, Westminster. Eleven months ago, Dan. de la Fabvollière rejoiced over the victory of the King of France. I told him the King of England was the true King of France, and the other his deputy. He replied that the King of France took up his rents for him and had money enough, and that our King sold him Dunkirk, and if he would sell him more, would let him have more money. Also, Examination of Thos. Heath. De la Fabvollière said that the English had no law but the devil; that he came over merely for money; that the King needed him more than he the King, and that he would go back if he could get the money the King owes him. Also,
Examination of Isabella, wife of Peter Griffin. On my refusal to lodge De la Fabvollière's whore, he abused the English, and said his countrymen would come and cut their throats. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 168.]
March 24.
Woolwich.
Edw. Byland to Pepys. Pray consider the works on ships suggested, and a supply of bricklayers and calkers. I have but 10 calkers, and they are so refractory that I am forced to be rugged with them. Former demands will give account of our present necessities. [Ibid. No. 169.]
March [24?] Capt. John Fortiscue to Thos. Hayter. Asks for 2 blank tickets. [Ibid No. 170.]
March [24?] James Mathews to Pepys. Estimate of the charge of building a brick wall, on the south side of Brick Close adjoining Deptford Yard, at 4l. 4s. 11d. per rod, to be 2 bricks thick, and 10 feet high; total, 106l. 2s. 11d. With note by Jonas Shish. Mathews has given as near an estimate as possible. I will finish the draft of the ship with all speed; we are in great want of plank for carrying on the new work, without which some of the shipwrights must be discharged. [Ibid. No. 171.]
March 24.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Williamson. To the same effect as his letter to Hickes of the 22nd. [Ibid. No. 172.]
March 24.
Milford.
John Powell to Hickes. Has no news of any kind. [Ibid. No. 173.]
March 24. [Wm. Wardour] to [Sir G. Downing]. I made search among the records in my office, and find that 1,133,003l. 0s. 10d. has been paid into the receipt of the Exchequer upon the Additional Aid, to 19 March 1669, and 92,289l. 9s. 4d. on the first month of the Eleven Months Tax; and for the last 10 months of the said tax, 631,640l. 11s. 2½d. [Ibid. No. 174.]
March 24.
Treasury Chambers, Whitehall.
Sir Geo. Downing to Wm. Wardour. You only mention the gross amount paid in on the Additional Aid and Eleven Months Tax. The Treasury Commissioners expect a particular account how much has been paid in for each county and place, which they desire to be got ready in a week. [Ibid. No. 175.]
March 25.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. No news of any kind; all things still and quiet. [Ibid. No. 176.]
March 25. A. Ellis to Williamson. Pray write to Mr. Moulin, at Paris, to send all edicts, ordinances, &c., that may be had there, for the government of the posts of France; also the rates taken for letters from Paris to every considerable town in France. [Ibid. No. 177.]
March 25. Grant to Nat. Ludlow and Edw. Boswell of the manor of Husborne Tarrant and other lands in co. Hants, escheated by the death of Edm. Ludlow without heirs, reserving a rent of 3l., being part of 6l. formerly payable for the same. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 22.]
March 25. Dispensation for John Arnold, High Sheriff of Monmouthshire, to remain in London or elsewhere whither business calls him. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 95.]
March 25. Warrant to the Sheriff [of co. Worcester] to suspend the sentence of Rich. Colston, of Worcester, should he be convicted of a rape. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 122.]
March 25. Warrant for reprieve of Edw. Phillips, convicted of felony, till further information. Minute. [Ibid.]
March 25. Warrant to pay, from the privy seal dormant of 10,000l., 130l. 15s. 8d. to the soldiers and inhabitants of Dover, being the moiety of a month's pay due to the 2 foot companies in Dover Castle, under command of Sir Fras. Vincent. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 54.]
March 25.
Whitehall.
Petition of John Neile, D.D., chaplain in ordinary, to the King, for a warrant to the Archbishop of Canterbury for a dispensation to hold 2 benefices together, although they be a little above 30 miles distant. Is possessed of the rectory of Beeford, alias Biford, co. York, and is about to be presented by the Dean and Chapter of York to the vicarage of Northallerton, in the same county and diocese.
With reference thereon to the Bishop of Hereford, Dean of the Chapel Royal, and his report. The petitioner having been chaplain in ordinary to his Majesty several years, making long and chargeable journeys for his attendance, and having never received any particular favour, and being also a person of exemplary piety and merit, I conceive him fit to receive the desired dispensation, especially as the distance between the 2 livings mentioned in the petition is but 6 or 7 miles above the ordinary course of dispensation. [Ibid. Nos. 178, 179.]
March 25. Entry of the above reference. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 15.]
March 25.
Whitehall.
Petition of John Alleyn to the King. Edw. Alleyn, by patent of 17 James, founded Dulwich college as a lay foundation, to consist of a master and warden, 4 fellows, 6 poor brethren, 6 poor sisters, and 12 poor scholars. His Majesty, by the same patent, gave the founder power to make statutes for its government, which should not be repugnant to his prerogative, nor to the laws and statutes of England. One of the statutes is that the master and warden shall for ever be of the blood and surname of the founder, if any such can be found; but single persons and unmarried. That notwithstanding, the said Edw. Alleyn, by his deed of foundation, invested the first master and warden, both being married men, my father being one of them, and he continued in it until his death, being upwards of 20 years. I am the next of kin to the founder, but am married.
Being at Oxford in the time of the rebellion, his late Majesty, for my loyalty, granted me a dispensation and mandamus to receive the mastership, on resignation of Thos. Alleyn, the successor of my father, who was then desirous to resign in my favour; but the rebellious power then prevailing, I could not enjoy the benefit thereof. The said Thos. Alleyn being now dead, the place has become void, and the next of kin to the founder of his blood and surname is to enjoy the same, if single. I beg a dispenpensation for the wardenship of Dulwich College, and a mandamus for admission into the same, though married.
With reference thereon to the Bishop of Hereford, and his report that his Majesty has full power to dispense with the circumstance of marriage, which does not appear to be contrary to the intention of the founder, as he placed a married man there after the statutes were confirmed; the petitioner being in all other respects capable, and in some degree meriting his Majesty's favour, is a fit person to receive it. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, Nos. 180, 181. See p. 263, infra.]
March 25. Entry of the above reference. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 15.]
March 25.
Victualling Office.
Thos. Lewis to Pepys. The ships inquired after, that are to go with victuals to Sir Thos. Allin's fleet, have been despatched hence since the 6th instant, yet were stopped at Gravesend by the Customs' officers, notwithstanding they had Sir Denis Gauden's certificate for their lading, but were afterwards cleared. Two of them may now be in the Downs, but I doubt whether the third is yet out of the river. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 182.] Encloses,
Account of victuals for 2,320 for 112 days, shipped in vessels named, for the supply of the fleet under Sir Thos. Allin in the Straits, and consigned to Cadiz; value 262l. 16s. 10d. [Ibid. No. 182i.]
March 25.
Portsmouth.
Commissioner John Tippetts to the Navy Commissioners. I will husband the money ordered as well as I can. I wish the 302 trees put to sale by the heirs of the late Lord Treasurer could be bought standing, as this would save the King 100l; when I hear they are sold, I shall endeavour to deal for the bodies, as several are ready for the bargain. They may produce 400 loads of good timber, but present payment is demanded.
There will be an increase of work and wants by the Straits fleet, now ordered in, and I am the more troubled to think of the want of money. John Mayle expects performance of his contract for 460 loads of timber, whereof 66 loads have come in. I send an account of timber bought and received, without written contracts being made. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 183.]
March 25.
Portsmouth.
Same to the Navy Commissioners. We are sheathing the Dragon, and if she had seamen, she might be taking in her provisions, and be at sea in 10 days; I will supply her with stores required out of the 600l. Not more than 30 seamen can be depended upon in these parts.
I could bring Mr. Perrin to no abatement in some things; he affirms that he has hitherto lost by what has been delivered, and that there was a mistake in setting pence in the place of shillings in the account for rivets. I suppose you may bring Cole to an abatement, as he was on higher terms for his timber; he speaks of a great quantity bought in Sussex of Sir Cecil Bishop for 4,000l., and has promised to wait on you about it. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 184.] Encloses,
Propositions by Paul Cole of Milbrook, Hants, timber merchant, for delivering timber and plank mentioned into the stores at Portsmouth, for ready money.—Portsmouth, 24 March 1668. [Copy. Ibid. No. 184i.]
March 25.
Deptford.
Jonas Shish to the Navy Commissioners. We have launched the Hampshire and docked the Sapphire. I beg a speedy supply of sheathing boards, spruce deals, &c., for finishing the repair of the Little Victory and other ships. [Ibid. No. 185.]
March 25.
Deptford.
Ann Harper to the Navy Commissioners. I intreat you to move the Treasurers that I may have the salary due to my late husband [Thos. Harper], having many children to provide for, and legacies to pay. [Ibid. No. 186.]
March 25.
Deal.
John Culmer to Col. Thos. Middleton. I have swept an anchor in the Downs of 30 cwt., with 50 fathoms of cable, which I judge was lost by the Dreadnought, and have satisfied the boatmen for their pains. Pray remember me in the former business I troubled you with. [Ibid. No. 187.]
[March 25.] Petition of Joseph Brown, calker, to the Navy Commissioners, for some recompense for quenching the fire from burning the Defiance's head, on which service he burnt a Sunday coat and hat. [Ibid. No. 188.] Encloses,
Certificate by Edw. Gregory and 2 others, that Brown was very diligent in quenching the fire, giving attendance, with much labour, the whole night, upon which service he received great damage to his clothes.—24 March 1669. [Ibid. No. 188i.]
March 25. John Moorhouse to [the Navy Commissioners]. I have spoken to Sir George Downing about your order for money promised me, and applied to the clerks, who sent me to Mr. Mading; he says he has laid out all the money received for the spoil in Aliceholt for the King's use. I cannot get my warrant for felling timber in Whittlewood, so I desire further commands. [Ibid. No. 189.]
March 26.
Near Kinsale.
Capt. Wm. Crispin to the Navy Commissioners. I have given directions for securing the Harp and her stores, as also for preparing the pay–books, &c. I have no assurance from Alderman Hutchinson what day the money will be ready for paying the company; when it comes, all things shall be quickly perfected; but I cannot go to Dublin.
After I had faithfully performed my duty, I was constrained to leave my family and concerns, by a costly and tedious journey to London, to perfect my accounts and petition for my satisfaction, not only for services, but for money long since disbursed, and in order to be freed from debts and engagements. In obtaining this, I met with very unkind treatment, loss of time, and high expenses, and was put to wait from door to door amongst beggars, and at last constrained to buy satisfaction on some accounts, at 15 per cent., which others concerned with me in them have refused to allow; thence divers suits in law have arisen, to my very great damage. I find the 20l. ordered by you for our charges to Dublin will not defray the expenses, as we are 150 miles away; however, I will leave my own concerns, and do my utmost to accomplish your commands here. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 257, No. 190.]
March 26.
Plymouth.
John Clarke to James Hickes. The Prince of Tuscany and Sir Bernard Gascoigne have gone towards London; the Portland frigate and Roe ketch have sailed for the Downs. [Ibid. No. 191.]
March 26. Pass for 20 horses for Sir Henry Jones. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 123.]
March 26. The King to the Duke of York. On 1 February, we ordered you to hire as many merchant ships as should be necessary for convoys for this year; but as they can scarcely be provided soon enough, we wish you to fit out as many men-of-war as shall be necessary. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 20.]
March 27. Approbation of Col. Edw. Grey as a deputy-lieutenant for Northumberland. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 20, p. 196.]
March 27. Petition of Thos. Mulleneux to the King and Council, on behalf of himself and others injured by the Dutch East India Company at Amboyna and Poleron, complaining that out of 32,000l. paid by the Dutch, and entrusted to Sir Rob. Vyner, in compensation for the said damages, only 3,615l. has been paid away, whilst Sir Robert, on various excuses, withholds the 28,385l.; requests that the accounts of the transaction may be brought into the Exchequer, and the remaining money handed over to one of the secretaries, to be paid to the proprietors. Endorsed with note that Lord Arlington's opinion thereon is desired by Mr. Boevey in Chancery Lane. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 1.]
March 27.
Bristol.
James Baskerville to Williamson. Upwards of 20 ships have arrived from places named. [Ibid. No. 2.]
March 27.
Victualling Office.
Sir Denis Gauden to the Navy Commissioners. I have consigned the victuals to be shipped for Sir Thos. Allin's fleet, and hope the ships will be at Cadiz to receive them; but in case they should not, as it happened with the last, which were delivered at Tangier, I desire orders what shall be done with them, for preventing extra loss and charge. [Ibid. No. 3.]
March 27. Papers relating to goods embezzled belonging to the King, viz:— Memorandum made by Surveyor Middleton and Samuel Pepys, Clerk of the Acts, on the examination of [Phineas] Pett, master shipwright, and others, as to lending boats from the stores at Chatham to Mr. Kent; Pett would not swear that they were all returned, but would swear that he had never sold nor given Kent any.—26 March 1669. [2½ pages. Ibid. No. 4.] Affidavits by Thos. Burley of Hoo, Kent, Daniel Eldridge, Francis Toney, and Wm. Dover, relative to boats, old piles, and spurshores, supposed to be taken by Pett, and converted to his own use. [Ibid. Nos. 5, 6.] Affidavit of Jeremiah Lambert, of Gillingham. Francis Toney demanded of Mr. Kent whose boat it was that he had in his ground; he replied it was his own, and he bought it of Mr. Pett; did not hear anything said about its being borrowed. With note that Daniel Eldridge showed the Board the absolution of his late excommunication, under the seal of the Archbishop of Canterbury, with a certificate of its being published 14 March by Ralph Twiss, Vicar of Gillingham, Also note that Cornelius Paine and 3 others make oath that they saw nothing in a smack laden by Mr. Wilson's servants, save fag ends of cables.—27 March 1669. [1¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 7.]
Notes on the evidence of the witnesses before named. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 8.]
March 28. Thos. Price to Fras. Royley. I have directed your letters. All friends desire to be remembered; your wife and daughter are well. [Ibid. No. 9.]
March 29.
Martha and Mary, Downs.
Sir W. Godolphin to Williamson. I have received Sir Rich. Beeling's letter, with an enclosure from her Majesty to the Queen of Spain. We sailed from the Downs on the 25th with other ships, but were forced back by contrary winds. We met the Portland, and heard of the Prince of Tuscany's arrival at Plymouth. We have M. Oxenstern, the Swedish Envoy for Portugal, and other company on board, too good to be made prize by the Algiers men, whom we shall begin to fear as we approach the rock of Lisbon, their usual station.
Here are two victuallers bound for Cadiz, or Sir Thos. Allin's squadron, and the Orange, a caper taken from the Dutch in the late war, ready to convoy them; as we are going the same way, I have written to Mr. Wren that the captain may have a care of us, in case we are attacked, our own vessel having too many guns to condescend to be searched. If Mr. Wren gives orders for the Orange to sail with us, send them by express. [1¾ pages. Ibid. No. 10.]
March 29.
Yarmouth.
Rich. Bower to Williamson. Two ships have come in from Marseilles with brimstone, almonds, &c., one of which fell in with an Algiers man-of-war of 36 guns, who made a strict search, which they said was on account of the abuses they met with, under the colour of being English ships and goods; but they were otherwise kind, inviting the master and merchant aboard to a civil treat of sweetmeats, and what their ship afforded. Arrival of ships from Nantes and Wales. [Ibid. No. 11.]
March 29.
Chester.
Ma. Anderton to Williamson. There have arrived from Holyhead, [Hugh Hamilton] Lord Glenawly, [John Berkeley, Viscount] Fitzharding, and 5 other young gentlemen, for London; they came over from Dublin in the pleasure boat. [Ibid. No. 12.]
March 29.
Lyme.
Ant. Thorold to Hickes. The Fellowship has arrived from Jamaica, and reports the place in good condition, only more men and women might do well. The Oxford frigate was blown up at the Isle of Ash, with 200 men and 5 of the captains of the fleet, there being a council sitting for taking Carthagena; but her com- mander, Capt. Haggar, was saved, (he being imprisoned at Jamaica for killing his master), and other commanders were saved out of the water. The Oxford a week before had fetched a French rover who had plundered an English merchantman, and the captain and 40 of his men, being on board at the time of the blowing up, are suspected, the captain being afterwards taken out of the water quite naked, with gold in his mouth; he has since been brought to Jamaica, and condemned by a council of war to be hanged, and his ship made prize. The Fellowship confirms the taking of Porto Bello, with the loss of only 2 men, and of their having run on shore, to spare the ship from fire. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 13.]
March 29.
Weymouth.
John Pocock to Williamson. To the same effect. Also, Sir Thos. Modyford has lately buried his lady. A vessel from Jamaica with passengers went into Porto Rico to victual, and the captain going himself on shore to treat with the Spaniards, came on board, and told his passengers that if they would go on shore, they might have what refreshment they pleased; 27 went with him, who with himself were all kept by the Spaniards; they would have also got the ship and the rest of the company, but those on board perceiving it, weighed anchor and went back to Jamaica. [1¼ pages. Ibid. No. 14.]
March 29.
Pendennis.
Fras. Bellott to Williamson. There are but few vessels in the harbour. Capt. Godolphin is still at Pendennis, but intends his voyage for the East Indies. A Dutch vessel has come in from Rotterdam. [Ibid. No. 15.]
March 29.
Custom House, Carlisle.
Wm. Christian to Williamson. Being informed that Eras. Towerson has gone to London to make complaint against me, I desire you will not conclude me guilty, until I have attended on you and disputed the difference with him in your presence. I am delayed by my great desire for your brother's company. [Ibid. No. 16.]
March 29.
The Llay.
Sir Wm. Neale to Williamson. Thanks for your kindness; I never met with such friends since the Restoration, and it has made me cheerful to think how highly Lord Arlington esteems one who has so little merited it. [Ibid. No. 17.]
March 29. Account of the allowances to Foreign Ministers, as proposed by the Lords of the Treasury in 1667, settled by the Foreign Committee the same year, and altered by his Majesty in 1669. [Ibid. No. 17a.]
March 29.
Whitehall.
Proclamation forbidding the import of foreign corn in time of plenty, as clogging the market, and causing grain to be undersold. [Printed. Proc. Coll., p. 267.]
March 29. Commission to Thos. Richardson to be ensign to Capt. Thos. Stradling's company, in Col. John Russell's regiment of guards. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 29, p. 31.]
March 29. Warrant to Sir Thos. Osborne and Sir Thos. Littleton, Navy Treasurers, to pay out of money to be repaid from the wine Act or otherwise, 2,271l. to Signor Manuel de Fonseca, for French wines taken by Prince Rupert for the service of the Navy, an order of 10 May 1667 for payment being still unpaid, and likely to be so for a long time, by reason of the precedency of other Navy bills; another order of 31 Aug. 1668, charging the late Navy Treasurer to pay this sum from the customs of November to February last is also unpaid, owing to the removal of the then treasurer. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 123.]
March 30.
Whitehall.
Order for a warrant to pay during pleasure to Thos. Samborne, appointed marshal of ceremonies to attend ambassadors sent from foreign princes, on resignation of Amice Andros, 100l. a year, the said annuity being granted to Andros for life. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 50.]
March 30. Pass for a horse for Lord Brien. Minute. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 123.]
March 30.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. No news of any kind. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 18.]
March 30.
Portsmouth.
Commissioner J. Tippetts to the Navy Commissioners. The Dragon is sheathed and taking in ballast, and I expect seamen to enter themselves to-day. I have viewed several parcels of trees, and offered money for them, but none sell as yet. They stand at 42s. and 43s. a load, delivered at the waterside, whence it will cost 2s. more. Col. Reymes has sent in canvas, and the storekeeper desires a copy of the contract, to make out a bill. The hoys from Deptford are unladen. [Ibid. No. 19.]
March 30.
Chatham.
Wm. Rand and John Brooke to the Navy Commissioners. We are rigging the Warwick, which is ready to receive officers and men, and can take in her victuals in a week. We are forced to work all our ordinary on her, so we cannot do the other necessary work in the river. [Ibid. No. 20.]
March 30.
Navy Office.
Navy Commissioners to the Commissioners of Accounts. We send a list of officers employed in the Navy, between Sept. 1664 and Dec. 1668. We hope to be able to send your other demands in a little time. [Ibid. No. 21.]
March 30.
Chatham.
Edw. Gregory to Pepys. I enclose a letter from Dan. Eldridge and Fras. Toney, which they desire transmitted. [Ibid. No. 22.] Encloses,
Affidavit of Thos. Dawkins that Thos. Burley witnessed of his own free will, at the first meeting with Dan. Eldridge and Fras. Toney, that the boat in Mr. Kent's possession was sold to him by Mr. Pett, the builder; and at the second meeting, that the boat then taken away from Mr. Kent was not the one bought, but another, which was seized by the Dutch, and that Mr. Kent had 6l. to pay for it.—29 March 1669. [Ibid. No. 22i.]
March 30.
Chatham.
Edw. Gregory to the Navy Commissioners. Sends bills for the ballast baskets, oil, pitch, and tar, brought by the Harwich hoy. [Ibid. No. 23.]
March 30.
Navy Office.
Giles Bond, master of the Hope galliot, to the Navy Commissioners. Desires an order for provisions, his vessel being at Deptford. [Ibid. No. 24.]
March 31.
Ordnance Office.
Edw. Sherburne and Rich. March to the Navy Commissioners Ask how they have dealt with Capt. Langley as to his wages, and what they know of the truth of the loss or plundering of the ketch, that they may discharge him of his obligation, or see his Majesty righted, in case his allegation be false. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 25.] Enclose,
Certificate by Thos. Langley to the Ordnance Commissioners, that having received order to carry a packet to Cadiz in the Edward and Eve ketch, in June 1665, he was chased ashore by a Holland man-of-war, who took and plundered him of his ordnance and ammunition.—London, 25 March 1669. Copy. [Ibid. No. 251.]
March 31.
Mary yacht, Dublin.
Capt. James Sharland to the Navy Commissioners. There are persons in Chester, Liverpool, and Dublin, who can supply a cable and hawser, but will not, because that last bill of credit I drew for sails, cordage, and trimming, now a year and half ago, is not satisfied. Mathew Anderton and Rob. Phillpot of Chester have threatened to sue me, and made such a noise that I can have no more credit. Pray send me two cables and a hawser, and boatswain and carpenter's stores. If the ship continues here the next winter, we shall want a supply of new sails. [Ibid. No. 26.]
March 31.
Chatham Dock.
Dan. Bowtwell to Pepys. Pray move the Board with my petition delivered at the Hill House, so as that the surgeon's shop adjacent to my lodging may be granted me; the fitting of it for my convenience will not amount to much. Also ask that a cellar of 8 or 10 feet square may be dug under my lodging, I having no place where to set a little beer or meat to preserve it. [Ibid. No. 27.]
March 31.
Hinchinbroke.
Earl of Sandwich to Williamson. I send, as directed by Secretary Trevor, some examinations to be laid before Council. I have taken them with all care and circumspection; pray lay them before the King, with my character for readiness and fidelity in every occasion to serve him. [Ibid. No. 28.]
March 31. H. Aldrich to his brother, Rob. Francis. We had the first meeting about our business yesterday; there is a considerable difference, but I hope at the next to bring things nearer together, and put a period without any suit at law. I am resolved to be a loser, rather than go to law when I can avoid it. I hope to be at home on Saturday week. Pray deliver the letters enclosed, especially those to Roland and my sister Ursula. [Ibid. No. 29.]
March 31.
Falmouth.
Thos. Holden to Hickes. Several vessels have arrived bound for places named. The Morning Star continues at Falmouth, the captain being much troubled by his men running away; some of them he is forced to put in prison, and has much trouble to get others, they fearing, because the voyage has proved so unfortunate in the beginning, that it will not end well, and that they will have to allow their wages to make good the loss. [Ibid. No. 30.]
March 31. Same to Williamson. To the same effect. [Ibid. No. 31.]
March 31.
Bristol.
James Baskerville to Williamson. The Blossom and other vessels have arrived from New England and Virginia, and left some more in the Channel coming up. [S.P.Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 32.]
[March 31.]
Whitehall.
Note of passports required for Lawrence Debusty, merchant, resident in London, to go to France and return. [French. Ibid. No. 33.]
March 31.
Whitehall.
Pass for Lawrence Debusty to go and return. [French. Ibid. No. 34.]
March 31. Note of the said pass, adding two geldings. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 30, f. 123.]
March 31. Pass for 14 horses to France for Lord Middlesex. Minute. [Ibid. f. 123.]
March 31. The King to his cousin [the Elector Palatine]. I have always been concerned about the differences between you and my cousin, Prince Rupert, and I offer one expedient more. Let Prince Rupert discharge you from all arrears of appanage, amounting to 6,000l., and lay down his pretensions as executor to the Queen [of Bohemia], my aunt, contenting himself with the moveables of the Palatinate house which he already has, and 3,000l. a year, if he has no lawful issue. I send over his secretary, James Hayes, to whom give credence and despatch. If you comply herein, I shall be much satisfied. If not, I must do my utmost to obtain for my cousin, Prince Rupert, what is due to him. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 21.]
March. Petition of Chr. Andrews, bargeman, to the Navy Commissioners, for payment of 704l. 13s. 6d., due on bills for transportation of timber from Aliceholt and Whittlewood Forests to the water side, for 1665 and 1666; has two more freights now coming; there is enough of his Majesty's timber lying at the water side, to answer all demands of the service, without any supply from timber merchants. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 35.]
March ? Request made to Lord [Arlington] in behalf of Mrs. Cannell, widow,—imprisoned by Dr. Barrow, Bishop of the Isle of Man, July 1668, for being a Catholic—for liberty, she holding only a third of a farm under the Earl of Derby; she was recommended by Abbot Montague from the Queen Mother. [Ibid. No. 36.]
March? Petition of Rich. Colston to the King, showing that for 10 months of his office of gauger of Excise for the city of Worcester, by discovering many frauds of the brewers, he has so enraged them that they conspire against his life, and indict him falsely for an assault on Anne Butler, a brewer; prays for a reprieve, in case he be found guilty by the partiality of the jury. [Ibid. No. 37.] Annexing,
Examinations of Rich. Colston, gentleman of Worcester, and of Sam. Young, taken before Thos. Street, Mayor, and other justices. Having received several informations that Anne Butler often concealed her brewings, they searched her house on the 2nd instant for concealed beer; and before their departure, drank 2 or 3 flagons, but deny taking any liberties, or using any violence.—7 Sept., Worcester. [1½ pages. Copy. Ibid. No. 37i.]
to—.Pray remind Lady Castlemaine to obtain the King's signature to a reprieve for Rich. Colston of Worcester, in case that by the malice of the brewers there, he should be sentenced for a crime falsely imputed to him by Anne Butler, a common strumpet; she has already accused 8 persons of the same crime, in order to gain money. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 37ii.]
Proposed warrant to Sir Thos. Twysden and Sir Wm. Wylde, Barts., the Sheriff of Worcester, and others, to reprieve Rich. Colston, maliciously accused of a rape, in case he should be found guilty, by the violence of the prosecution. [Ibid. No. 37iii.]
March? Petition of Margaret Griffin (or Griffith), prisoner in Newgate, to Lord Arlington, to be released—having obtained her warrant for transportation—without payment of fees, which, being impoverished by her tedious imprisonment, she is unable to pay. [See 21 Jan. 1669. Ibid. No. 38.]
March. Mary Curson to Rob. Francis, at Lord Arlington's office. Requests him to send the enclosed to her sister Heb. [Ibid. No. 39.]
March. Proposal by Weneslaus Hollar, "his Majesty's scenographer, or designer of prospects." If the King will send me with Lord Henry Howard, the Ambassador, with whose grandfather I lived in the like employment, and allow me 100l. towards fitting myself and leaving my house and family in good condition, then I will adventure my person and time, and give an account of what is worthy to be observed in those parts, especially the city of Tangier; for although there is a large map thereof done by me—but performed only upon the author's tradition by word of mouth, and my own bringing into method—I conceive if one should compare the print with the thing itself, as I intend doing if I go there, I should find but little likeness, and perhaps quite another thing. I would examine all, and take designs, and give his Majesty much better satisfaction, although the other had more for his pains than I ask. [Ibid. No. 40.]
March.
Whitehall.
Blank warrant to Sir Edw. Griffin, Treasurer of the Chamber, for a payment to John Birtby, Ant. Ryder, and John Gauntlett, clerks of the Privy Council, for their pains in writing above 1,000 circular letters, and other letters and orders, as directed by the Navy Commissioners during the late war, and by the committees for the sickness (plague), fire of London, &c. [Ibid. No. 41.] Enclosing,
List of letters, orders, &c., written for the King's service, from 1 Sept. 1663 to 5 March 1669; with the number of copies of each required, varying from 1 to 68. [3 pages. Ibid. No. 41i.]
March ? List of the King's Ministers and of English Consuls abroad. [2¾ pages. Ibid. No. 42.]
March? Account of an Act passed in Parliament on 16 March 1664, for suppressing seditious conventicles, to last for 3 years after that session, and then to the end of the next session; the 3 years expired 17 May 1667; this session was prorogued 1 March last, so the Act has now lasted one session after the expiration of the 3 years. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 258, No. 43.]
March? Advertisement of the loss of a portmanteau, with writings of concern, from the Cambridge coach, between London and Bishop Stortford, offering a reward for its recovery. [Ibid. No. 44.]
March ? Certificate that the Lily began petty warrant 12 June 1667, as appears by the muster book, signed by Capt. [Jas.] Jenifer, and given in long since by him to the Navy Office. [Ibid. No. 45.]
March ? Tabular statement of the value of the bishopric of St. Asaph, of all the offices connected therewith; also of all the benefices in the diocese; containing the reputed value, estimate in the King's books, subsidies, tithes, &c., with the name of the present occupants and patrons; also memoranda relating to some of the livings. [13½ pages. Ibid. No. 45a.]
March.
Deal.
Lists sent by Mor. Lodge, to Williamson, of King's and merchant ships in the Downs, the state of the wind, time of the arrival and despatch of mails, &c.:—
Vol. 258 No. Date. King's. Merchants'. Mails. Wind. REMARKS.
Arrival. Despatch.
46 March 1 2 6 6 p.m. S.W.
47 " 2 2 5 6 p.m. N.E.
48 " 3 2 4 6 p.m. S.
49 " 4 2 5 p.m. E.
50 " 5 2 W.
51 " 7 2 5 p.m.
52 " 7 2 5 6 p.m. S.
53 " 8 2 3 5 p.m. S.W.
54 " 10 1 5 6 p.m. S.
55 " 11 1 6 6 p.m. E.
56 " 11 1 5 4 p.m. 6 p.m. S.S.E.
57 " 13 1 5 p.m. 6 p.m. E.
58 " 14 1 1 5 p.m. S.
59 " 15 1 2 5 p.m. S.E.S.
60 " 16 1 6 p.m. E.
61 " 17 1 2 5 p.m. N.E.
62 " 18 1 6 p.m. N.E.
63 " 19 1 5 p.m. N.E.
64 " 21 1 12 6 p.m. W. One of his Majesty's pleasure boats has sailed through from the southward for the river.
65 " 22 1 11 6 p.m. N.E.
66 " 24 1 11 6 p.m. N.W.
67 " 25 1 9 N. Sir Wm. Godolphin, Ambassador for Spain, set sail.
68 " 26 1 1 6 p.m. S.W.
69 " 27 1 12 6 p.m. N.W.
70 " 28 1 15 7 p.m. N.W.
71 " 29 1 19 6 p.m. N.W.
72 " 30 1 20 3 p.m. 6 p.m. S.W.
73 " 31 1 21 6 p.m. W.S.W.
March. Grant to the President, &c., of the Royal Society of London for improvement of natural knowledge, of several parcels of land in Chelsea, with the houses and buildings thereon, granted or intended to be granted by King James to Chelsea College, rent 2l. 7s. 4d.; with alterations in the government of the society, and provisoes that the land be not alienated nor sold, and that the president and his deputy take the oaths of allegiance and supremacy, before they enter on the execution of their offices. [Docquet, Vol. 24, No. 23.]
March. Grant to Rachel, Viscountess Falkland, of 3,000l. out of the embezzlement of prize goods in Ireland, to be discovered by herself or her agents. [Ibid. No. 24.]
March. Warrant to discharge and allow to Sir George Carteret, late Treasurer of the Navy, on his accounts, 15,000l., part of 30,000l. remitted by him by the King's direction to Ireland, and paid the Earl of Anglesey, then Vice-Treasurer there, to strengthen that kingdom against the preparations of the Dutch, with whom his Majesty was then at war. [Ibid. No. 26.]
March. Warrant to pay to the 6 justices of the Great Sessions in Wales an augmentation of 100l. a year each, with their former allowance of 50l., out of the revenue in North and South Wales. [Ibid.]
March. Warrant to pay to Philip Packer, paymaster of the works, 6,000l. on account for rebuilding the Custom House. [Ibid. No. 27.]
March. Warrant to pay to Sir Robert Vyner 12,456l. 10s. 9d. for jewels. plate, &c., from 24 June 1668 to 14 Feb. 1669. [Ibid. No. 29.]
March. Warrant to pay to [Ald.] Edw. Backwell 6,657l. 16s. 4d. as interest for advancing to the King 128,896l. 18s. 3d. at several times. [Ibid.]
March. Warrant to pay to John Portman 497l. 17s. 6¼d. as interest of 9,608l. 16s. 1d. advanced to Sir George Carteret for the King's service. [Ibid.]
March. Warrant to pay to Isaac Meynell 26,197l. 13s. 8d. as interest of 320,187l. advanced to Sir George Carteret for the King's service. [Ibid.]
March. Warrant to pay to the Lieutenant of the Ordnance 40,000l. on account, for providing a magazine of saltpetre. [Ibid. No. 31.]
March. Warrant to the Treasurer of the Chamber to pay to John Myer, violinist in place of — Yonckney, deceased, 16l. 2s. 6d. a year for his livery. [Ibid. No. 32.]