Charles II: January 1671

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1671. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1895.

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'Charles II: January 1671', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles II, 1671, (London, 1895) pp. 1-63. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas2/1671/pp1-63 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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January 1671

Jan. 1. Dr. Robert South to Joseph Williamson. I left London with no small regret that it was not my happiness to kiss your hands before my departure, though on Sunday in the afternoon I used all diligence imaginable to find you out, and own the obligation that your friendly, hearty prosecution and despatch of my business has for ever laid upon me. I assure you the sense and memory of your favour shall not die till I do, nor then neither, if I could as easily make as wish it immortal.
Mr. Woodruff, we hear, has obtained the reversion of the next canonry. Fortune has struck in with his boldness, and bore him up in spite of that that would have ruined another. I forget not my promise to you of paying all the service and respect to the Dean of Christ Church that I can. I ever courted his friendship, but have mourned over the ill success that all my attempts have met with formerly. However, I resolve to continue the attempt still. Postscript.—At my return, which will be shortly, I shall not sleep till I kiss your hand. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 1.]
Jan. 1.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. A New England ship from Mevis (Nevis) to London says that a French squadron on that coast disturbs all ships trading there, carrying them into port to examine them, and making them pay large incident charges. The Dutch there are greatly concerned at being molested in their trade. [Ibid. No. 2.]
Jan. 1.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. Sir William Jennens and Captain Werden, with the fleet of merchantmen bound to the southward, have arrived, and were to have sailed to-day, but are detained by the wind being contrary and the appearance of foul weather. [Ibid. No. 3.]
Jan. 1. Pass to the Earl of Lindsey, to go into France with his lady and attendants. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book34, f. 69.]
Jan. 1. Commission for Ralph Widdrington to be captain of the foot company at Portsmouth, in room of Capt. Thomas Chicheley. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 35a, f. 21.]
Jan. 1.
Whitehall.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Ordering him to have inserted in the present Irish establishment the pension of 50l. to Jane Cary, granted on 19 March 1661, in consideration of the loss of her husband, Capt. David Cary, murdered by the late usurper, on which a stop had been put in the lieutenancy of Lord Robartes. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 426.]
Jan. 2.
Rolls Chapel.
Richard Gibbons to— Hutchinson. I understand by Mr. Sharpe that your kinsman Holland has suggested his forged lies against me. I need not give you notice that Mr. Sharpe will not pay me for the roll at Whitehall. I challenge you for nought since I have gotten his roll into my possession, with or without the leave of Mr. Williamson. I have not discovered a syllable to Barry as touching that matter. I did declare that I should expect 2s. a roll. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 4.]
Jan. 2.
Dover.
John Carlile to Williamson. The fleet of about 100 sail put to sea from the Downs to the southward, and ten or twelve from this harbour, but the wind coming south-west has brought some back again. [Ibid. No. 5.]
Jan. 2. Richard Wilkinson to Lord Arlington. Since his Majesty has been pleased to grant my pardon, I am very much satisfied that nothing at present be done in it to prevent discovery of what information has been given, for some of the rebels pretend they have great intelligence from the Court, for which reason I shall not appear there before I have done their business, unless, through Mr. Pitt, I have his Majesty's or your commands to do so; but must beg your patience till I have really accomplished my designs upon them, for certainly I shall find out the very depth of their intentions, with a little more of your lordship's assistance, viz. about 30l. to pay certain debts, and to buy a horse. [Ibid. No. 6.]
Jan. 2.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. Mr. Goldsmith arrived from Virginia yesterday, and was but twenty-one days from sight of Virginia to sight of England. He reports that tobacco is very "scarsy" there, and also all sorts of provisions, especially bread, already scarce to be got for money. To-day four Holland merchant ships were forced in by foul weather. Another from Biscay reports that all the discourse in that part of France is that we and the Dutch shall fall out, but the country hope that a French mistake. [Ibid. No. 7.]
Jan. 2.
Lyme.
Anthony Thorold to James Hickes. Yesterday arrived the Expedition of this place from the Canaries. At her coming thence about six weeks since, she left the Foresight in chase of a small Turks man-of-war, which had put her in much hazard had she not timely come up to her. The northerly winds have carried several of our vessels westward, bound for French and other ports. [Ibid. No. 8.]
Jan. 2. James Huysman to Williamson. I did not send home your portrait, because I found some fault with the lower part of it, which I ask permission to alter, hoping you will accept it as a small present. [Ibid. No. 9.]
Jan. 2.
Pendennis.
Francis Bellott to Charles Perrott. Three or four vessels, part of the convoy under the Princess and Falcon, have put in here. [Ibid. No. 10.]
Jan. 2.
Chatham.
T. Wilson to Sam. Pepys. I moved you when last at Chatham for the exemption of the persons called my instruments from attendance at all calls. I can declare that his Majesty's service was never prejudiced to the value of 6d. by their absence or neglect. This morning they all were checked for a whole day by the Commissioner, by way of a new year's gift to me, though they were in the yard before there was any occasion for any of them. I beg you to consider my condition if they had then left, as few men will work for nothing. I have endeavoured at my own cost to oblige them for the good of the service and my own reputation, and shall continue to do so as long as they continue honest, as they often work overtime without any allowance, which far exceeds their coming short of a morning, or going away before a call at night. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 1.]
Jan. 2.
Framlingham.
John Maddocks to the Navy Commissioners. I will contract for the delivery of 500 loads of plank of sizes mentioned, 400 between this and next July, and 100 by next Michaelmas, at 4l. 6s. per load for that delivered at Chatham, and 1s. per load less for that delivered at Deptford or Woolwich, upon receiving ready money on delivery. I hope for greater despatch in the unloading of the hoys than formerly, having had to pay the demurrage, which I also hope will be allowed, otherwise I shall not be able to procure hoys. If the tender is accepted, and an order for the receipt of the goods is given, I will send three or four hoy-loads forthwith, and the remainder with all expedition, desiring that the meting the lengths of the timber may be deferred until the end of the contract, when I will abate for what is wanting; and that I may receive the money due upon the last contract, as, being but a young beginner, I am much damaged by being kept out of it. [Ibid. No. 2.]
Jan. [2]/12.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copy of my letter of the 5th. I hope your Honours will allow the valuation, in the letter of 13 October, of the pieces of eight, as it was their real value, as the exchange then went, and considering that I am fain to allow a provision in England for receiving and paying the money, and it has always been the custom so to pass it; should the exchange run higher, as it has often done, I shall nevertheless be content with that price. I solely throw myself upon your disposition with reference to your last resolution, but hope it will prove as comfortable as it seems just. I have allowed some small stores to the St. David, Dartmouth, Jersey, Guernsey, Swallow, and Kent, for which I have their commanders' orders, and on Capt. Poole's return from Zante shall supply him, and then forward all the papers. I ask that Sir Denis Gauden and Co. may be frequently and earnestly minded to treat me better than of late, as I am not able to express the great trouble and inconveniences caused by their bad compliance. If I do not receive speedy relief, I and my poor family will sink under the burden, and the service suffer. Capt. Loyd, of the Kent, has sailed with only one vessel under convoy. I have sent by him three chests of Florence wine, marked C:N, which I beg you will accept and divide amongst yourselves, and hope you will find it as good as any that ever came from that place. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 3.]
Jan. 3.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 11.]
1670. Dec. 29–1671. Jan. 3. News-letter. [Part given in the Fleming Calendar, p. 74.] The King of Ardres, in Guinea, has sent another of his envoys to Amsterdam, who is to go thence into France, and he that is at Paris to go for Holland, to treat with them about the establishment of trade.
Monday, 2nd.— In France, by an [ordinance] is lately established the liberty of vending all sorts of merchandises in the several provinces, where they shall be imported, but it excepts what comes from Geneva, in so much that all from thence cannot be opened but at the Custom House at Lyons, which will much prejudice that trade. Letters from France say that the Duke of Lorraine shall come into France, and upon his asking pardon for his violation of treaties, shall be restored to his dominions. The French merchants have sustained a very considerable loss by one of their best ships being cast away in the Mediterranean coming from the Levant, out of which but two seamen were saved; twenty Knights of Malta on board perished. Last Saturday her Royal Highness was suddenly taken extremely ill, so that for some time her life was much doubted, since which she has been somewhat better.
Tuesday, 3rd.—This morning the House met according to adjournment, and in pursuance of their former order about the Bill of Subsidy. [3 pages. Ibid. No. 12.]
Jan. 3. Dr. John Fell, Dean of Christ Church, to Williamson. I wish you a happy New Year, and ask you to afford to a trifling book coming towards you a place in the corner of your study. Since Mr. Surveyor desires a more exact measure of the ground, Mr. Crosse will take care to have it sent; but I conceive he need not trouble himself with framing a model for such a piece of work. The street is so high that the ground within cannot be abated much, unless you will trust to sinks and drains to convey your water. Have received an advertisement that the Life of St. Adhelm, one of those your friend desires, is in a large MS. in Gloucester library. [Ibid. No. 13.]
[Jan. ?] Rev. William Shippen, M.A., to the King. Petition stating that the rectory of Kirke Heaton, in Yorkshire, being void by the death of the Rev. Dr. Elcocke, was now in his Majesty's gift ratione symoniœ, and praying him to grant the same to the petitioner. [2 copies. At foot of one,]
Jan. 3.
Whitehall.
Reference thereof to Lord Keeper Bridgeman, to inquire into the alleged simony and to report thereon. Signed, "Arlington." [Ibid. Nos. 14, 15.]
Jan. 3. Another copy of the reference. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 142.]
Jan. 3. The Earl of Manchester to Lord [Arlington]. In regard the petitioner hath been prevented from being elected according to his seniority by two former mandamuses I am willing he should have a mandamus for the next vacant fellowship (if his Majesty shall think fit), as he desires in his petition. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 16.]
Jan. 3. Warrant for a grant of the Controllership of the Petty Customs in London, to Richard Breton and Francis Thorneton, in lieu of Colonel Neville, who has surrendered it. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 187.]
Jan. 3.
Chatham.
Commissioner John Cox to Col. Thos. Middleton, Surveyor of the Navy. Asking that twenty grindstones and some spikes formerly demanded may be sent down by the horse boat, as he cannot get on with the Leopard's works for want of them, and has set some people to make some of the latter, but they ask very dear, and proposing, if the fleet is to go abroad this year, to have some able men in the yard to build some boats there, as there are only some pinnaces which were built by one of the Moorcocks by contract and are very slight, and one boat built in the yard is worth two of the contract ones. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 4.]
Jan. 3. Capt. John Tinker to the Navy Commissioners. Asking a warrant for entering twenty-five riggers for fitting the ships that are to go to sea in the spring. [Ibid. No. 5.]
Jan. 3.
Dublin.
Lord Berkeley, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to [Lord Arlington]. Enclosing a draft letter, for which he requests the King's signature, on behalf of Major Deane, Deputy Postmaster General of Ireland, who had provided three boats for that service, one of which was lately lost. Sir Ellis Leighton will give further information. [1¼ page. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 1.]
Jan. 3. Sir W. Domville to Thomas Gardiner. On behalf of his son-in-law, Sir Robert Hartpole, desiring his advice and assistance how to proceed in procuring a remission of the new quit rents on his estate. His father and grandfather were both slain by the late usurper, one at the storm of Drogheda, the other when captain of horse under the Duke of Ormonde. His family are of old English extraction, and have always been faithful to the Crown. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 2.]
Jan. 3. Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to swear William Lord O'Brien of the Privy Council. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 427.]
Jan. 4.
Falmouth.
Thomas Holden to Williamson. Giving the names of the ships that had come in there. A small vessel that came there in five or six days from Holland states that the Dutch are making all preparation for war, both by land and sea. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 17.]
Jan. 4.
Falmouth.
Thomas Holden to James Hickes. To the same effect as the last. [Ibid. No. 18.]
Jan. 4.
Treasury.
Sir George Downing to William Wardour. Desiring, on behalf of the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury, an account of all money paid in the Exchequer for interest money or reward money between 1 January 1669[–70] and 1 January 1670[–1.] [Ibid. No. 19.]
Jan. 4. Privy seal for payment to John Dodington, late Secretary of the Embassy Extraordinary to Venice and the Princes of Italy, of 450l., his arrears, and also 2l. 10s. per diem from the 9th of October last, for his entertainment as Resident at Venice. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, p. 69.]
Docquet thereof. [2 copies. Docquets, Vol. 25, Nos. 2, 3.]
Jan. 4.
Deal.
B. St. Michel to the Navy Commissioners. Understanding that the four muster books of the Newcastle and Dragon which I mustered last November, and sent up by Mr. Gilbert, the Canterbury carrier, have not been delivered, I ask you to send one of your officers to the carrier's porter, Matthew Bryant, at the Dark House, Billingsgate, with whom they were left. I will transmit copies in the meantime. The wind being southerly, has sent about four score of great Flemish ships, outward bound, into the Downs, together with three men-of-war as their convoy. I have the books for 9 November. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 6.]
Jan. 4.
Whitehall.
Order in Council, made on the petition of Luke Earl of Fingall, stating that his Majesty had in August last discharged his estate from all the new imposed quit rents which were by mistake said only to be 224l. 10s. 11½d., whereas they appear to be 280l. 18s. 0½d., and praying that his Majesty would order another letter for the amendment of the mistake, and confirmation of the former grant, ordering that a letter be prepared for the King's signature, confirming the former grant, and correcting the said mistake. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 3.]
[Jan. 5 ?] "The case of the English weavers and French merchants truly stated." Giving reasons for discouraging the importation of foreign wrought silks. The entries of silks at the port of London from Michaelmas 1668 to Michaelmas 1669 are stated to have been, in lbs.
Wrought Silk, Foreign Manufactured.
Italy 39,457
Holland 10,557
East Indies 14,370
Flanders 226
France 1,400
71,010
Thrown Silk, Imported and Manufactured in England.
Italy 87,216
Holland 2,878
Flanders 3,027
93,121
Raw Silk.
Italy 14,563
Turkey 249,502
East Indies 248
264,313
Ferret silk from Flanders imported and manufactured in England - 7012.
[Drawn up probably in connection with the bill for encouraging silk weaving, introduced on 4 January 1670–1. (See Commons' Journals IX., 188.) Two copies. Printed paper. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, Nos. 20, 21.]
Jan. 5. Sir Orlando Bridgeman, Lord Keeper. Order appointing 9 a.m. next Saturday at Essex House, for the hearing of a petition [probably that of Mr. Shippen]. [Ibid. No. 22.]
1670. Dec. 31–1671. Jan. 5. Three news-letters. [The only news they contain besides that contained in the Fleming Calendar, p. 74, and in other news-letters is:]
Monday, 2nd— Her Royal Highness has for these several weeks past been under an extraordinary distemper of body, at the best keeping her chamber, but most commonly her bed. Our this day's letters from Paris say that it was said there that the King, upon the advice of the Emperor's having signed the Triple Alliance, contrary to the interest of France, has declared to the Emperor's envoy there, that if he pleased he might return home again unless he meant to live there as his subject, so that he is preparing to be gone with all speed. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, Nos. 23, 24, 25.]
Jan. 5. Commission appointing Sir Thomas Lynch Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. [Calendared in S.P. Col., America &c., 1669–74, p. 152. 1½ page. Ibid. No. 26.]
Jan. 5. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General to prepare a bill for the King's signature, granting to Sir Samuel Morland an annuity of 300l., to be paid out of the tenths of the clergy, in consideration of his having provided divers instruments and other things for the King's private service, and his abilities in mechanic arts, and his success in finding out divers inventions. [Draft. 1½ page. Ibid. No. 27.]
Jan. 5. Similar warrant for granting him an annuity of — out of the 140,000l. payable by the farmers of the excise in London and Westminster. [3 Drafts. 1½ page. Ibid. Nos. 28, 29, 30, and S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 69.]
Jan. 5. Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant, on the recommendation of the Duke of Ormonde, ordering him, as Michael Ward, B.D., Senior Fellow of Trinity College, will be shortly obliged to resign, or be deprived of his said Fellowship by reason of accepting a benefice, and forasmuch as the same is without cure of souls, upon the occurrence of such vacancy to choose and re-admit him into a Senior Fellowship, with a dispensation of the clause in the oath promising not to accept while a Fellow of any benefice above a prescribed value and beyond a prescribed distance from Dublin. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 427.]
Jan. 6. T. P[ovey] to Williamson. Concerning Mr. Martin's Fellowship, and enclosing a letter from his father and one from Mr. Yarborough, both much bewailing the misfortunes of the young man and the reflections which reach others much more considerable by his repeated repulse. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 31.]
Jan. 6. William Wade of Henley-on-Thames. Petition praying for the next vacancy in the hospital of Ewelme, with order granting the prayer of the petition. [Ibid. No. 32.]
Jan. 6. Printed notice to Williamson of a meeting of the Royal Company on the 10th, for choosing a Governor and other affairs. [Ibid. No. 33.] Perhaps annexed,
List of the Royal Adventurers of England trading into Africa. [Printed paper. Ibid. No. 33i.]
1670. Dec. 31–1671. Jan. 6. News-letter. [The news identical with that in preceding letters, except as follows:]
6th.— Our last letters from Dublin give this account of an unfortunate accident which happened lately there: My Lord Lieutenant, his lady, children, and many persons of quality, as well as others, being met at the theatre there, the upper galleries thereof suddenly fell down, with the fall of which his Excellency, his lady and children were all hurt, though not much, but with it six persons were killed, and above thrice that number dangerously wounded. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 34.]
Jan. 6. Richard Wilkinson to Richard Pitt at the Musled Bear's Head in Vere Street. I am very much troubled at having no answer to my letter, and more, that it has been my ill fortune to engage myself in a matter so difficult. Had I known that I could not be supplied, I would rather have lived an exile all my life, though the matter is easy, and as certain a truth as that the sun is upon the meridian at noonday. [Ibid. No. 35.]
Jan. [6]/16.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. Sending copy of his letter of the 12th, also a letter for the Treasurer of the Navy, upon whom he is to pass his victualling bills for the future, by the Duke of York's order, stating that he shall supply all by a joint letter from time to time, presuming that is the method, although Mr. Wren is not clear therein, and asking for a due discharge of his bills, particularly one of three months for 93l. 16s. 10d., payable to John Smith. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 7.]
Jan. 6. The King to the Lord Lieutenant. Ordering him to cause letters patent to be passed for the appointment of Essex Digby, D.D., Dean of Cashel, to the bishopric of Dromore, vacant by the death of George, the late bishop. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 428.]
Jan. 7.
Snaylewell, near Newmarket.
Dr. Edmund Boldero to Williamson. I had a letter from Thetford about Mr. Martin's son's concerns at Pembroke Hall. They were then very much troubled that they had no certainty whether that affair would speed or no. We in Cambridge think it strange that the King's letters should be neglected there long; heretofore it used not to be so, and I am sure the authority is the same now as then. I shall not engage myself in a dispute of what has passed heretofore, but if I may be serviceable in my advice for the future to let you know how affairs stand in that college, or how the next letters are to be directed, for another I'll assure you there must be, I shall not now be unwilling publicly to appear in it. At present the Master is at Lincoln. He took no notice of the letters at his being in Cambridge, neither does he intend to return till midsummer, so that if you be resolved that his Majesty's letters shall lie dormant till that time, and when he comes have the same entertainment they had before, not only the young man's reputation is lost, but all the interest his father had made by his friends is at an end. You desired other letters testimonial from Jesus College (as Mr. Martin sent me word). I sent word it was not usual to give testimonials twice upon the same account, but if my certificate and his tutor's also may do you any good, they shall be sent. Had you thought good to have sent a copy of the last letters, as you did of the first, I believe I could have so advised as neither my Lord Arlington nor yourself should have met with so many obstructions in these last as you have. I submit all to your wisdom, and beg your pardon for this interposal, but it is for my friends, and therefore I speak more freely than otherwise I would. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 36.]
Jan. 7. Sir Orlando Bridgeman, Lord Keeper. Report on Shippen's petition, finding that the patron who was guilty of notorious simony in his contract with Dr. Elcocke had presented Mr. Wrightson before any applications made for his Majesty's title, and that Mr. Wrightson's near kinsman is the said patron's brotherin-law, and was the person to whom the patron referred himself for matter of bargain touching the presentation, and advising his Majesty to grant this presentation to some other person. [Ibid. No. 37.]
Jan. 7.
Rye.
James Welsh to Williamson. To-day a French vessel from Dunkirk was forced into this harbour by foul weather. The master affirms that the day he came thence there marched into Dunkirk 22,000 French, which with those in and about that place before make up 50,000, and that he hears of 50,000 more on their march thither, and also that the Governor had received a letter from the French king, assuring him that St. Domingo was taken by the French. [Ibid. No. 38.]
Jan. 7.
Milford.
John Powell to James Hickes. On Thursday arrived the St. John of Marseilles, loaded with lemons and oranges, bound for Dublin, and on the 4th a vessel from the Barbadoes. [Ibid. No. 39.]
[Jan. ?] — to the Justices of—. Sending examinations of Stephen and Charles West, who have been examined by the mayor of Southampton, on suspicion of being concerned in the late barbarous attempt on the Duke of Ormonde, and wishing them to inquire into such particulars as relate to their parts, and to lose no time in the inquiry. [Draft in Williamson's handwriting. Ibid. No. 40.]
Jan. 7.
Bristol.
Certificate under the hands of John Knight, mayor, and another, that Thomas Greene, tanner, deposed that he had that day received the annexed letter from London from Stephen and Charles West, who lately lived at Stapleton in Gloucestershire, and usually frequented Bristol market every Saturday, and that both of them were at Bristol on 6 December last, in his company, and continued in and about Bristol till the 10th, and that on the 7th they bought of him a black nag with certain marks, and as the said letter mentions, gave him a hide in part payment thereof. [City Seal affixed. Ibid. No. 41.] Enclosed,
Jan. 5. The said letter. Entreating Mr. Greene to send him a certificate certifying the colours and marks of the horse they bought of him, and the very day of the purchase, to the Gatehouse, where they were clapped up in prison upon suspicion concerning the proclamation of my lord of Ormonde. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 41i.] Annexed,
Jan. 2. Certificate under the hands of William Beveridge, vicar, and 21 others, that Stephen West and Ann Shelley were married at Ealing on 2 May 1663, and have lived at Old Brentford ever since, and that the cause of his going away now was that he was overthrown in a law suit. [Ibid. No. 41ii.]
Jan. 7.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. This morning in the storm a Hamburg vessel of about 100 tons, most of whose lading was powder, ran on ground in Sandown Bay, about two and a-half miles northward of Deal. The Deal pilots carried her off that place, but being almost stranded, and having much water in her hold, they came against this town and are now unloading her, for she cannot go so far as Dover pier. Yesterday morning, in the storm and rain, about twenty Dutch boats came on shore, and by the assistance of the Deal men all were saved. [Ibid. No. 42.]
Jan. 7.
Hull.
Charles Whittington to Williamson. Advising him that he had sent him a quarter-cask of ale by the Mary Ann of Hull. [Ibid. No. 43.]
Jan. 7.
Lyme.
Anthony Thorold to James Hickes. The 5th arrived here the Happy Entrance from Morlaix, and the Comfort of Bridgwater (by contrary winds) from Rochelle, but a week since for provision put into Brest. The master stated that they are there busily employed in building ships, twelve upon the stocks, to be of great force, one especially to have four decks and carry 130 guns, and to be called the Wonder of the World. They are drawing their old soldiers out of their garrisons and putting new raised men in their places, intending to be very formidable both at land and sea next spring. About three weeks since, a fleet of about 130 sail of merchantmen, French, Dutch, and English, a little before loaded at Bordeaux and other French ports with wines, salt, and brandy, put out of the road of Camerett, and was by a violent north-west wind most of them cast ashore, about 60 of them lost, some vessels since sailing that way with great difficulty passing the wreck. [Ibid. No. 44.]
Jan. 7. Warrant to the Clerk of the Signet to prepare a warrant to the Commissioners of the Treasury, for payment of 11,000l. per annum, beginning from the previous Michaelmas, to the Earl of Sandwich, Master of the Great Wardrobe, to be paid over by him to the Duke of Buckingham, Master of Horse, who in consideration thereof has agreed to supply to the King's stables all the things hitherto issued out of the Great Wardrobe. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26,f. 96.]
Jan. 7. King's letter to the University of Cambridge, directing them to make Leonard Hoar a Doctor of Physic. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 27, f. 23.]
Jan. 7. Warrant to the Exchequer for payment to Sir Wm. Boreman of 439l. 10s. 4d. in satisfaction of his disbursements at Greenwich. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 1.]
Jan. 7.
Chatham Dock.
Phineas Pett to the Navy Commissioners. Asking directions (1) as to repairing the Plymouth, as in ripping up part of her deck in the double dock, they found the seams and plank so bad that it will be necessary to new lay the deck, and several of her gun deck beams and knees are so rotten that they will have to shift them and replace certain bolts which are iron sick, which work is more than the survey mentions; (2) as to the Friezland flyboat, which has been brought in to be sheathed and fitted for a voyage to Guinea, whose master desires she may be flower ridered, &c., which will be a considerable charge that might be saved. Also wanting a warrant for the Leopard, which requires to be newly sheathed and her gun deck relaid. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 8.]
Jan. 7. Complaint by John Cooke that Wm. Acworth of Woolwich Dockyard impounded three of his horses for trespassing, and demanded 10s. for each horse, notwithstanding that Acworth had trespassed several times on his grass and gardens; he proffered him 5s., but only 30s. would satisfy. Acworth also impounded some cows belonging to John Latter, and one Leach of Charlton, and forced them to give him 3l. for trespass, and also impounded the horse of one Betts, and had 10s. and 1s. for his man, although the horse could not get over anything of a fence, being cross spanned. A horse of Leach's having fallen into a ditch, between Acworth's and Cooke's, so that it could not be got out through Cooke's ground, owing to Acworth's leaving his fence down, as he refused to allow them on his ground to get it out, it had to be drawn out by horses on to Cooke's, which was the death of the horse. Acworth distrained all the goods, bread, and cheese of one Smith, a poor widow, whose husband died in his Majesty's service, and having refused to give her her victuals, she was forced to make use of her neighbours' charity for her relief. Note, that this was received with a petition from Cooke, and also draft of a letter by the Navy Commissioners to Acworth, that if he will not give the petitioner satisfaction, or refer the business in dispute to indifferent persons, they will move his Royal Highness to take off the protection he is under by his place, and give the petitioner leave to take the benefit of the law against him. [Ibid. No. 9.]
Jan. 7.
Whitehall.
The King to Lord Chancellor Rothes and the Senators of the College of Justice of Scotland. Appointing Sir Jas. Dalrymple, of Stair, to the office of President of the College of Justice, in absence of the Lord Chancellor, in place of Sir John Gilmor, appointed 13 Feb. 1661, who has resigned the office through infirmity. He is to take his oath and be admitted in the usual form. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 48.]
Jan. 7.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a commission to William Earl Marshal, Lord Privy Seal, William Duke of Hamilton, the Earls of Argyll, Athole, Linlithgow, Dumfermline, and Panmure, and eleven others, to audit the accounts of the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland for the years 1666 and 1667, for which former commissions were granted and have proved unavailing; and also for the years 1668, 1669, and 1670, with power to disallow such articles in the said accounts as they think fit. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, pp. 49–51.]
Jan. 7.
Whitehall.
Discharge to Sir James Steward, of Kirkfield, of the report of 3 Aug. 1669, whereby the Commissioners of Public Accounts brought him in liable for certain moneys due on his accounts given in in 1658, he having paid considerable sums and satisfied the objections against his said accounts; and also discharge of all his public intromissions and accounts, and grant of the full benefit of the Act of Indemnity relating thereto. [Ibid. pp. 51–2.]
Jan. 7.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Auditors of Public Accounts, appointed 16 Jan. 1663, to determine on the accounts of the late Jas. Hamilton of Dalzell, without the necessity of reporting to his Majesty; and grant of the whole sums to be recovered from his representatives to the Earl of Crawford and Lindsey, with power to him to pursue for and give discharges for the same. [Ibid. pp. 53–4.]
Jan. 8.
Portsmouth.
A[nthony] Deane to Williamson. Inquiring if he has received his letter, written about fourteen days since, to inform him "how far, and in what nature, I had discoursed one fit for the purpose we spoke of when I was in town about a voyage or journey." [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 45.]
Jan. 8.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. Enclosing the names of the ships arrived since his last. [Ibid. No. 46.]
Jan. 8.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. The vessel mentioned last post belonged to Denmark. The master will not confess whence he came or whither he is bound, but wished he sunk before he came on shore. The steersman says she came from Holland; she is loaded with cables, powder, and beeswax. The steersman said they were bound for Brest, and that they have copper guns in hold; some of the cables are 22 or 23 inches, big enough to ride the best royal ship in England. [Ibid. No. 47.]
Jan. 8.
Oxford.
Dr. Peter Mews, Vice-Chancellor, to Williamson. We all think ourselves much honoured with the kind expressions the Prince of Orange is pleased to make of his reception here. No place is more devoted to the Royal Family. We have not perhaps the art to set off the expressions of our duty with that advantage which others do, but we are sure none can mean better. I find many here not a little disgusted at the Gazette for taking (as they think) so slight notice of his reception, and in particular for mentioning the present which the town made, and not that which was made by the University, which was the late King's works, bound in two volumes, and presented him in Convocation; and those who do not take a right measure of things think I was to blame in not employing somebody to give an account of it, but I have made you sensible how improper it was for me, and that it might have been very proper for some of them. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 48.]
[Jan. 9 ?] Bill making perpetual the Act 17 Car. II., for avoiding unnecessary suits and delays (in courts of justice), made to last five years, and thence till the next session of Parliament. [See Commons' Journals IX., 188. Ibid. No. 49.]
[Jan. 9.] The case on behalf of Sir Thomas Allen, and the answer of William Wood, both claiming to be returned for Dunwich [See Commons' Journals IX., 188. Printed Paper. Ibid. No. 50.]
Jan. 9.
Falmouth.
Thomas Holden to James Hickes. Stating that the East Indiamen mentioned in his last were still in port, and giving the names of some other vessels that had arrived. [Ibid. No. 51.]
Jan. 9.
Woolwich.
Edw. Byland to the Navy Commissioners. As the Milford will be ready to be launched to-morrow week, asking them to issue an order for lightening the Bristol if she is to be docked, as she has her cables, anchors, &c., in her, as well as 100 tons of ballast. Fearing he will be much necessitated for timber, having received none since October except a small parcel; and, as he is very sick and weak, desiring to be allowed to remove to Eltham, as he hopes the air will do him good, and unless it is speedily done, he may not be in a capacity to move at all. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 10.]
Jan. [9]/19.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copies of my two letters of the 16th to you and the Treasurers of the Navy, forwarded by the Lyons ordinary [of which the first is calendared above], and in the second I stated that I believed they were no strangers to my long and just complaint against Sir Denis Gauden and Co., whose bad compliance with the bills of exchange passed upon them had threatened my ruin, and that Secretary Wren had signified his Royal Highness's pleasure that I should make my drafts upon them for the future, and that I had accordingly passed one for 93l. 16s. 10d., payable three months after date to John Smith, which I hoped would find due acceptance and payment at maturity; and also that they might be the better informed of the state of my case with Sir Denis Gauden and Co., I sent a copy of my last account with them, by which they would find that when my bills were satisfied I would still remain a creditor for above 2,000l., and that I also sent another account to a friend in London to adjust and receive the balance, and that I forwarded the indents for victualling five ships, as also the orders of the commanders of the Swallow and Kent for supplies. Since then I have passed another bill upon their Honours for 60l., payable at sight to John Hanson, the discharge of which is requested, it being for a similar sum disbursed for me. Sir Denis Gauden's bad compliance has struck such terror into all the merchants and strangers here that they dread the thought of trusting the public or concerning themselves with them, so that I am exceedingly straitened for money, and know not how to procure one penny by exchange. If you would work a better opinion into the merchants in London I would soon find the fruits of it in better treatment from their factors here, and as it will tend so much to the advantage of the service, I shall use on other argument to move you to a ready compliance with my desires. [1¾ page. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 11.]
Jan. 10.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 52.]
Jan. 10.
Whitehall.
The King to [the Warden and Fellows of All Souls' College, Oxford]. Signifying his pleasure that they elect and admit Charles Hales, son of Sir Edward Hales, Bart., to a fellowship lately become vacant, and dispensing on this occasion, if necessary, with any canon, statute, custom, usage, or constitution of that college to the contrary. [Draft. Ibid. No. 53.]
Jan. 5–10. News-letter. [Part of the news in Fleming Calendar, p. 75.] 6th.— The persons taken at Southampton, suspected to be the persons who lately made that horrid attempt on the Duke of Ormonde, this evening were examined by Lord Arlington and some other Lords of the Council, when they pretended their names to be West, two brothers, by profession butchers, and that they rambled so about upon occasion of debts; but being taken in different confessions and found to be persons of an unknown life and conversation, if not the persons suspected, they were committed to the Gatehouse till better evidence be brought to clear them. 7th.—The Prince of Orange, accompanied by the Earl of Ossory, Lord Arlington, and many other persons of quality, did the Archbishop of Canterbury the honour to dine with him at his palace in Lambeth, where they were very nobly entertained to their extraordinary satisfaction. As yet not said to whom the two vacant bishoprics of Worcester and Lichfield and Coventry shall be disposed of, but it is generally believed that Dr. Pearson, Master of Trinity College in Cambridge, will have one of them. The Bishop of Munster has lately writ to the States of Holland wishing them a happy New Year, and freely offering them his force he has at present in pay, to serve them on all occasions as soon as he has finished his dispute with the Duke of Brunswick. Dr. Ironside, late Bishop of Bristol, is said to have died, but who shall succeed him is not yet said. [3 pages. Ibid. No. 54.]
Jan. 10.
Brampton Castle, Herefordshire.
Sir Robert Harley to Lord Arlington. About a year since, with the King's privity, I paid 750l. to the widows of former receivers of fee farm rents in some adjacent counties for the place of receiver. These being ordered to be sold, I have received not one penny from the place, and would lose what I laid out. Therefore I ask your mediation, that I may not incur this loss. [Ibid. No. 55.]
Jan. 10. The King to Lord Chief Justice Keeling and the Recorder and Sheriffs of London. At the intercession of the Prince of Orange, directing that in case George de Hertog, Lord of Valkenbergh, indicted for killing the Sieur de la Salle, be found guilty of murder or manslaughter, they forbear executing the penalty of death or burning in the hand, and all other penalties or forfeitures, but discharge him on bail to sue for pardon. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 70.]
Jan. 10.
London.
Capt. Edmund Chillenden to Viscount Brouncker. Mr. Hayter showed me Lady Penn's letter about the poor widow, Dorothy Letts, whose money comes to about 12l. 12s. 0d., as mentioned in her petition and the affidavit annexed, which Mr. Carkcas informs me is in their custody. As to my being ordered to prove what is alleged in the petition, the affidavit proves the ticket, and the letters of administration and power of attorney were given to Henry Boston, then a servant to Lady Penn, and if more must be proved, I must ask an order of Mr. Robt. Wayte and Mr. Anth. Stevens to give an account. I ask also an order, as promised in a document enclosed, for Mr. Butler Buggen to deliver up the bond of the purser of the Happy Entrance if he has passed his accounts. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 12.]
Jan. 10. Draft letter drawn up by Colonel Middleton and Sir Jeremy Smith in answer to some extravagant complaints and demands of Capt. Langston about the galleries and sails of his ship, and the junk supplied. Noted that it was not sent, but that the matter was left for inquiry at his return. [Ibid. No. 13.]
Jan. 11.
Milford.
John Powell to James Hickes. Concerning the loss of the Unity of Minehead. The 9th arrived the Neptune of London, from Guinca to the Barbados, and thence in ballast. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 56.]
Jan. 11.
Dover.
John Carlile to Williamson. I received just now the enclosed brief from Dr. Samuel Hinde, who desires you to take notice that there was over 5l. collected at a conventicle, and 40s. at our church called St. Mary's, where his Majesty used to go. This Mr. Barrey will be before the King and Council next Friday, so I hope this will come in good time to you, to show it to Lord Arlington that he may produce it before the King and Council, for he has made great divisions amongst us, and keeps a conventicle in his own house. The new mayor winks at all conventicles, and at the law and charters too, so that we are a sad divided people, and without a speedy remedy from his Majesty we shall be worse, for this mayor is an obstinate fellow, which understands little, which causes all our affairs and decrees to signify nothing. I shall give you in my next a further account of what a sad condition the corporation is in by means of this mayor. [Ibid. No. 57.]
[Jan. ?] Petition of the distressed widow Dergofsky to the King for the money he promised her, to enable her to pay her debts, and return to her own country, as she is now reduced to the utmost extremity. [Ibid. No. 58.]
Jan. 11. Warrant to the Commissioners of the Treasury for payment of 100l. upon the privy seal of 22 August last, to Isabella Dergofsky. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 70.]
Jan. 11. Warrant to the Clerk of the Signet, to prepare a warrant to the Commissioners of the Treasury, for payment to Charles Bertie, Envoy to the King of Denmark, of 300l. for his equipage and transport, of 4l. per diem for his entertainment from his departure to his return, and also of whatever may be due for intelligence and extraordinaries. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 95.]
Jan. 11.
Treasury Chambers.
Sir Geo. Downing to Sam. Pepys. Stating that he has received the draft privy seal for paying the Navy debt from Sir Robt. Long, and desiring to speak with him at his house to-morrow morning before eight o'clock, to perfect the business which has been so long about. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 14.]
Jan. 11.
Woolwich.
William Acworth to the Navy Commissioners. I have seen John Cooke's false petition, and the reference upon it, to which I submit. I pay a dear rent for twelve acres of marsh land on which I have had no beast since it was mowed last Midsummer, but he has had seven hungry hard-wrought horses and two cows at a time feeding in it. I had them put out and gave him notice three times, and was at last necessitated to impound four of his horses, but he would not give satisfaction, and cited me to the county court near Maidstone, 30 miles off, where an attorney appeared for me, but he got weary of that court, although he threatened to keep me there for three years. I was offered 10l. until Lady Day for the twelve acres Cooke's cattle fed in, and now cannot get 40s., and his hogs, coming through his own fence, have ploughed up the best part of nine acres of an orchard, planted with rose and fruit trees, and his men that fetched them from thence said it was a shame I should be so wronged. He also permitted his servants to steal the fruit and roses, and he has stilled great quantities of the latter before my face. He arrested a poor man for 18d., and kept him a prisoner with two bailiffs at an ale house for two days and nights. I have heard, where he came from, that he is a very troublesome, untrue speaking fellow, and given to eat his neighbours up. If any person can justly say that I have done him wrong or owe him money, I will either give him satisfaction or appear to his action without troubling his Royal Highness or your Honours, but I beseech I may not be condemned before I have been heard. [Ibid. No. 15.]
Jan. 11.
Deptford.
Thos. Turner to the Navy Commissioners. Your Honours have been misinformed as to my refusing to allow Capt. Guy of the Henrietta yacht the same allowance of candles and charcoal as formerly, as I had allowed him his candles before your order came down, but would not give him any before he was admitted, although he sent his man for them months before, and if any were due it was to his predecessor, Capt. Crow. I will deliver charcoal if ordered, but never did so since I came to Deptford, although the captains have been very earnest for some, pretending it was to air his Majesty's bedding, chairs, and goods on board; but I put them off by asking for a warrant. [Ibid. No. 16.]
Jan. 11.
Port Mahon.
Rich. Gibson to the Navy Commissioners. The Mary, Advice, and Garland have come in to clean, leaving the Warwick to bring in the Portsmouth ketch from Ivica, and the Centurion has also arrived with an order from the Admiral to victual her for three months for 190 men, 188 being on board. I have ended the survey, but not set it even with the boatswain and carpenter of the Hand, who have what is proper under their care. I have enclosed the upper end of the cave where Sir Thos. Allen left the smith's shop, which is removed to another place, which for about 400 pieces of eight charge will make it capable of receiving 200 tons of provisions besides the cooperage, and it is being built upon the King's ground near the waterside (to ease the charge and difficulty of transportation, and to secure it from thieves), which will save his Majesty the money in a year by rent, and secure him from paying any demurrage should victuallers come hither and find no menof-war here to help to unliver (sic) them. I had the magistrates' leave, as also an order from the Admiral (copy enclosed), and although the latter knows nothing of it, I do not fear his approving. The store of masts is scanty, and the Warwick has to be supplied with a mainmast and the Advice with a mainyard, and the deals will be used up on the ships in port. The stock of victuals was as I guessed in my letter of 20 Nov., but I shall be more particular when I have victualled all round, but I cannot see how the practice of ships going to sea without indenting until their return can be avoided. I have victualled the Golden Hand and six others for the men and days mentioned. I ask for a supply of 200 tons of unwrought but staves and iron hoops for them, also for some slop clothes, not having one pack left, and the Centurion going without, which would have taken 100l. worth to make their men but look like Christians. The Admiral took an Algiers man-of-war of 36 or 38 guns before he had been at sea ten days, which Capt. Bower says is higher between decks than the Revenge. The Admiral also says that Mr. Wren has written him that I may hourly expect three months' provisions for the whole fleet, and that he hopes I will be able to stow it. [1¼ page. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 17.] Annexed,
Nov. 15.
Revenge, Port Mahon.
Sir Edw. Spragg to Rich. Gibson. As the provisions which came from England in the Bermudas Merchant have put us to some trouble in getting them lodged, and knowing of a greater quantity coming with the convoy attending the herring fleet, and believing our necessities for stowage are already too much known to the inhabitants, so that little can be expected while the victualling and store ships remain in port, before which I shall have gone to sea, I therefore empower you to hire or build a fitting place during my absence, to lodge 430 tons of provisions expected as aforesaid. [Copy. Ibid. No. 17i.]
Jan. 11.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a commission for erection of a supreme justice court and criminal judicatory for Scotland, to consist of the Justice General, Justice Clerk, and five of the Lords of Session named therein, according to a report of the commission appointed 21 Sept. 1669, to consult upon courts of judicature. No appeal to be allowed from the said court to ordinary courts, with saving of the rights of lords and bailies of regalities. Also that two of the said judges hold circuits once a year at Dumfries and Jedburgh, two at Stirling, Glasgow, and Ayr, and two at Perth, Aberdeen, and Inverness. The said commission not to prejudice John Earl of Atholl, Justice General, or Sir John Home of Renton, Justice Clerk, in their former gifts of office as criminal judges, except as regulated by the above orders. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, pp. 54–59.]
Jan. 11.
Whitehall.
The King to Lord Aungier, Vice-Treasurer, and Treasurer at War in Ireland. Warrant for payment to George Wharton, the Treasurer and Paymaster of the Ordnance Office, of 6,076l., by the instalments therein mentioned, for powder, arms, and other stores sent to Dublin from the office, and for the carriage thereof, which had been directed to be paid by an order in Council of 1 Oct. 1669. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 429.]
Jan. 11. The King to the Lord Lieutenant. Directing him to cause letters patent to be passed granting to William Robinson the place of Engineer and Surveyor-General of all fortifications, buildings, &c., in Ireland, with the stipend of 5s. per diem, and also with the ancient fees and emoluments of the place, to commence on the determination of the former letters patent to Capts. John Paine and John Hollam. [Ibid. p. 431.]
Jan. 6–12./Jan. 11–12. Two news-letters. [The only intelligence not in other newsletters, or the Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
11th.—The Emperor has lately, by his ministers, proposed his entrance into the Triple Alliance with England, Sweden, and Holland, and has been accepted by them, so that all necessary instruments therein are drawn up and signed by his Imperial Majesty, to the no small dissatisfaction of the French king. The report of the Bishop of Bristol's being dead as yet wants confirmation.
12th.—All necessary preparations are making for the war which is thought to be intended next spring between France and Holland in both these countries. Also the Governor of the Spanish Netherlands is making all imaginable preparations for the fortifying of these countries, which, it is reported, will be the scene of the war. The two persons in the Gatehouse about the suspicion of being parties in the attempt on the Duke of Ormonde, were this week sent to Newgate to stand their trial at the gaol delivery this week at the Old Bayly. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, Nos. 59, 60.]
Jan. 12.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [Ibid. No. 61.]
Jan. 12. Thomas Twittey to Colonel Samuel Sandys, M.P. There being of late a sort of rude and dissolute people in the parishes of Severnstoke, Kempsey, and Pyrton, called Levellers, the principal of them being one Nicholas Fowler, who is called, and calls himself, Robin Hood, having two brothers, Thomas and William, one of them called Little John, they, associated with others of the neighbourhood, have become nightwalkers, and do many exploits of villainy and roguery in the country, viz. to steal geese, hens, and ducks, &c., to cut men's corn before it is ripe, to unthatch men's houses, barns, &c, to cut and shear the manes and tails of men's horses, and cut in pieces their gears, ploughs, carts, burn their hurdles and sheep pens, set open and break down their gates and fences, exposing their grounds to the cattle of the commons, scatter hay ricks, carry muck and dung out of men's foldyards, break into men's houses, beat and wound divers people, steal away, break and spoil hives of bees, and particularly breaking into a smith's shop in the night time, and taking thence four dozen of horseshoes, and cutting in pieces his bellows, and casting his anvil in the well, and putting the whole county in fear and terror; did several times in the night beset and assault the house of one Richard Addington with guns and fire-arms, and killed one Butler that was in the house in the assistance of Addington, by shooting him in the head with a brace of bullets. This being the case, upon 23 December the justices of the peace, viz. Sir Francis Russell, Thomas Street, and Thomas Vernon, Esqs., met at Severnstoke, the headquarters of the Levellers, where I also attended, and whither the country people came in great numbers, with guns, bills, &c., and there we took many informations upon oath of all their pranks (although I confess many of them were acted so occultly that the evidence against their persons was but circumstantial), and warrants were made for their apprehension, and two persons named Gyles and Rumney, who were charged to keep not only unlicensed but very disorderly alehouses which were the chief places of their rendezvous, were apprehended and committed to prison, also divers others were put under good sureties to appear at the sessions, and all endeavours used to apprehend the principals, though it proved fruitless. On 10 January the sessions was held, and care being taken that several of the most substantial inhabitants of those parts should be returned of the grand inquest, they appeared and were impanelled, and one bill of felony was found against Robin Hood and another, and several bills for misdemeanours against others, particularly Gyles for his unlicensed and disorderly alehouse, who confessed and submitted, and so was fined and imprisoned, and others were likewise fined and imprisoned, and others bailed under good sureties to appear next sessions till better evidence can be given, for that people are generally afraid to give evidence. However, the grand inquest, being duly encouraged hereunto by the Court, have presented, and 'tis ordered that the apprehenders of Robin Hood shall have 10l. out of the county stock, and the apprehenders of William Fowler and Thomas Fowler and one William Parker 5l. a-piece. The case and sufferings of Addington and one Mascall were taken into consideration by the Court, being but poor men who had done much in these disorders, and they had recompense towards the same given them by order of the Court, so that the country has received good satisfaction and encouragement, and the thoughts of these rewards has so influenced the zeal of many, that 'tis hoped they will be suddenly apprehended, but it is believed the knot is broken, and they utterly dispersed, the death of Butler having much quailed and daunted their spirits. [3½ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 62.]
Jan. 12. Reference to the Commissioners of the Treasury, and the Committee for Irish Affairs, of the petition of Sir John Kennedy, a Baron of the Irish Exchequer, praying that the quit-rent of certain lands purchased by him be reduced from 139l. 6s. 4d. to 95l. per annum. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 142.]
Jan. 12.
Newcastle, Cadiz.
Capt. Anth. Langston to the Navy Commissioners. I arrived here this day with all my little flock except one called the Cat of Falmouth, bound for Alicant, which I think foundered the first night we came out of Kinsale. I believe no man ever convoyed such a parcel of tools before. The merchant of the Scotch ships protests he would rather have bought them and their cargoes and sunk them than waited the time he has. The cordage of the Newcastle is so defective, that although there has been but little warm weather, the tar weeps out so fast that it runs down in streams, like a cut pine tree, and from our being on this side of the North Cape, they have shrunk so much that if they hold at the same rate the shrouds and rigging will be no bigger than fiddlestrings before coming home. The abuse done his Majesty makes me heartily pray that those worthy gentlemen who practise it may have their due reward. Since being here, we hear that Sir Edw. Spragg has taken the City of Algiers, and that the vessel I lost has put into Lisbon. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 18.]
Jan. 12.
Emsworth Sloop.
Capt. Walter Perry to [the Navy Commissioners]. I have been with Mr. Wren for orders, who told me the Duke intended sending me into the Lee Road to look after a Dutchman employed to sweep and weigh the London's guns, but as the deck of the Emsworth is bad and wants shifting, and she is to be searched with the cakkers (caulkers) under water, I ask an order to Mr. Shish about it. [Ibid. No. 19.]
[Jan. 12 ?]
Thursday.
Marg. [Countess of] Fingall to Williamson. Begging him to get the enclosed, which has been altered by the Attorney-General, drawn and signed as soon as possible. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 4.]
Jan. 13. The King to the Lord Lieutenant. In favour of the Earl of Fingall, in the terms of the order in Council of the 4th instant. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 430.]
Jan. 13. J. Knightley to Colonel Samuel Sandys, M.P. Some conventiclers (twenty of them freeholders) were convicted by me last October. One of them this sessions tried his appeal, but we were so careful, and had got so good a jury, that their confidence was a little dashed, and in less than an hour's dispute a verdict brought in for the King. But such is the insolence of that party, and so resolved they are to fright all persons from being informers of their seditious meetings, that the Court was hardly up before they arrested the informer with five several actions, the expense of which must necessarily undo a poor man—a rich one, indeed, is not able to wrestle with their united purse. Sir Henry Puckering and I concluded no way was so likely to protect and encourage informers, and to check their impudence, as to send an account up to some members that a little care may be taken in the new Act. He pitched upon Sir Robert Holt, with whom I pray you confer, and I promised to give account to you, and to beg your assistance, which I thought was my duty, in respect the law will signify very little if that dangerous party (not contented with the liberty you have given them of an appeal) may not be stopped from deterring and ruining informers, without whom nothing can be done. If the statutes of 29° cap. 6. and 35° cap. 1. of the Queen were a little explained and more fitted to our present purpose, you may find some paragraphs in them worthy consideration.
Postscript.—There is a case at present before me showing a deficiency in that paragraph of the late Act (p. 13) which begins, "In case any offender against this Act shall be an inhabitant in any other county, &c., fly after the offence, &c.," for an inhabitant of our county by me convicted continues in person where before he lived, but removed all his goods into another county, and by the law I conceive we have no way to levy the penalty, for we cannot touch the man or send a certificate to a justice in that county where his goods are, because he himself was not inhabitant there before, nor fled thither since. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 63.]
Jan. 13.
Treasury Chambers.
Lord Ashley and Sir Thomas Clifford, Commissioners of the Treasury, to the King. Report on the petition of the Lady Dowager Abergavenny, praying a grant of what the King should receive from the town of Hamburg for the loss sustained by him in the Elbe from some Dutch men-of-war during the late war. As the Commissioners of the Navy had informed them that the King's share in the satisfaction might amount to about 4,000l., but that they could not yet close the account of the said loss between the King and Sir William Warren, inasmuch as the whole was not yet adjusted between the latter and Hamburg, they were unable without more certain information to offer any opinion. [Signed. Ibid. No. 64.]
Jan. 13. Warrant to the Attorney-General to prepare a pardon for George Snelling for barretry. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 28, f. 48.]
Jan 13.
Chatham Dock.
Phineas Pett to the Navy Commissioners. I send an estimate of the charge for the repairs to the Plymouth and Leopard. I do not know why Commissioner Cox has not given me a warrant for ships already done, and have spoken to him several times about it. We are going on with the Friezland. Shall we build her a head, as it may be convenient for her intended voyage? [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 20.] Enclosed,
The said estimate, amounting for the Leopard to 1,200l., and the Plymouth to 1,705l. [Ibid. No. 21.]
Jan. 13. Capt. Thos. Foulis to William (sic) Pepys, asking whether any report has yet been made to the Duke about his business, and if not, when it will be. Would have waited upon him, but is not well. [Ibid. No. 22.]
Jan. 13.
Plymouth Sound.
Capt. Sir Wm. Jennens to Matthew Wren. I have often told you that the Falcon and Princess wanted "hamacoes," but could never hear of a supply. The continual noise of the men has at last forced us to get credit for 100, for which we have given a bill upon the Navy Commissioners. The Falcon having cut her best bower anchor by the rocks in Plymouth Sound and damaged her cable, I have been necessitated to get another cable from a kinsman, for which I have also given a bill, which I hope will be met. The wind being N.N.W. and fine weather, I am endeavouring to get the ships out of Catwater, and hope to be able to do so and sail to-morrow. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 23.]
Jan. 13.
Plymouth.
Capts. Sir Wm. Jennens and Robt. Werden to the Navy Commissioners. We have procured a cable for the Falcon from Wm. Jennens of Plymouth, for 63l. 9s. 2d., for which we have drawn a bill upon you, and hope you will meet it, as we have engaged ourselves for your punctual performance. [Ibid. No. 24.]
Jan. 13.
London.
Capt. John Hart of the Portland to Thos. Haither (Hayter). Asking him to deliver twenty tickets for the use of the ship to John Burton, the purser. [Ibid. No. 25.]
Jan. 13. Robt. Mayor to the Navy Commissioners. Asking for a warrant to Deptford, for receiving 16 loads of elm timber, part of 40 loads, from Mr. Kingsbury. [Ibid. No. 26.]
Jan. [13]/23.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. Sending copy of his letter of the 19th, and advising them that he has this day passed his bills upon the treasurer upon the victualling account for 356l. 5s. in three bills of 118l. 15s., each payable two months after date to Thos. Dethick, Henry Charlton, and Jas. Court, whose great readiness in promoting the service when the public credit is so low merits all just encouragement, and so humbly begging they may be punctually discharged at the very hour they fall due. [Ibid. No. 27.]
Jan. 13.
Whitehall.
The King to the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland. Having appointed the Justice General, Justice Clerk, and five senators of the College of Justice, to sit weekly, and oftener in time of sessions, and to go on circuits during the vacation, ordering them to pay to each 100l. sterling a year for the service; also to pay still 50l. sterling a year to John Preston, late Justice Deputy, till further orders; also to provide for the judges the robes prescribed by the rules for establishing that court. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 60.]
Jan. 13.
Whitehall.
The King to the Lord Provost and Bailies of Edinburgh. Having established the said justice court, that criminal trials may be decided in an orderly and solemn manner, requiring them to provide convenient rooms for its meetings, with benches and places for the judges, pursuers, defenders, officers of courts, &c., taking advice of the Treasury Commissioners. [of Scotland.] [Ibid. p. 61.]
Jan. 13.
Whitehall.
Order in Council. After reciting a former order of 11 November last—whereby the petition of Alexander Frazer and Mary his wife, daughter and heir of James Ware, Auditor-General of the Exchequer in Ireland, setting forth at large the rape of the said Mary (before she was married to the petitioner Alexander) by one James Shirley, and the whole proceedings thereon in the ecclesiastical and other courts in Ireland, and praying his Majesty to revoke his letters of protection dated 19 June 1670, obtained by untrue suggestions and notorious falsehoods of the said Shirley for staying all criminal prosecution of him, was referred to the Lord Keeper for his report— it was on the said report ordered that Lord Arlington prepare a letter for his Majesty's signature to the Lord Lieutenant, directing him to take care that Sir W. Domvile, the Attorney-General of Ireland, should prosecute the said Shirley for the said rape accordingly, notwithstanding the former letter of the date aforesaid, and also prepare a similar letter to the said Sir W. Domvile, requiring him to indict the said Shirley for the said rape, wherein the sentence of nullity given in the Ecclesiastical Court in Ireland, of a pretended marriage of the said Shirley to the said Mary, is not to be given in evidence, in regard there is an appeal depending from the same. [Nearly 2 pages. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 5.]
[Jan.] Rev. Ralph Otes, M.A., to the King. Petition, stating that he has for three years past officiated as curate at Kirkheaton, to the great content of the whole parish, that he was the whole and first discoverer of Mr. Wrighton's simoniacal contract with Mr. Richard Beamont for the said rectory, that then Mr. Shippen, brother-inlaw to Mr. Elcock, a former simoniacal contractor with Mr. Beamont, promised him all his aid to procure the King's presentation to the living, but that Mr. Shippen now tries to get the presentation for himself, and praying that the allegations therein be referred to the Lord Keeper for report. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 65, and S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 143.] At foot,
Jan. 14. Order referring the said petition accordingly. Endorsed, "Order of the Lord Keeper, dated the 18th, appointing next Friday at 8a.m., at Essex House, to hear all parties." Annexed,
Report of the Lord Keeper, dated the 21st, that the petitioner's allegation of Mr. Shippen's promising him his assistance was proved by the affidavit of one witness, but denied by Mr. Shippen on oath, and that he conceives there is no obligation on the King, either in respect of particular merit of the petitioner or otherwise, to gratify him in his suit. [Ibid. No. 65i.]
Another copy of the said report. [Ibid. No. 66.]
Jan. 14.
Lyme.
Anthony Thorold to James Hickes. Yesterday put in here by contrary winds the Morlaix Merchant of Bristol, in two days from Morlaix. The master says they talk there much of a war with the Dutch, and the French King has prohibited the export of any brandy to them, as well as they the receiving of it. [Ibid. No. 67.]
Jan. 14. Warrant to the keeper of the Gatehouse for the release of the prisoners Stephen and Charles West. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 70.]
Jan. 14. Wm. Wooly, Thos. Bates, and Abraham Sumers to the Navy Commissioners. Were three soldiers wounded in fight against the French in the West Indies, the two former belonging to Capt. Morley's company in Sir Thos. (sic) Bridges' regiment aboard the Old Lion and Assurance at Martinique in July 1667, and the last belonging to Capt. Thos. Mallet's company in the said regiment, and wounded in going ashore at St. Christopher's in Capt. Berry's sloop in June 1667. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 28.] Annexed,
Petition of the same to the King for an order for satisfaction for twenty-two months' pay due out of the money allotted for extraordinary uses or other ways as may seem most expedient, otherwise they must undoubtedly perish. Have all served his Majesty and suffered the loss of their limbs, which has often been demonstrated by petition, one of which was referred by his Majesty to the Navy Commissioners and Treasurers to pay what was due, who answered that it was not in their power to relieve them, they being land soldiers, but hoped his Majesty would order them satisfaction in some other way. [Ibid. No. 29.]
Jan. 14. Memorandum, by Mr. Ruffhead, of six anchors lying at Chatham which require to be repaired, together with the cost of each. [Ibid. No. 30.]
Jan. 14. Robert Mayor to the Navy Commissioners. Asking for a warrant to Deptford, for the receipt of 7 loads of plank and 10 loads of small compass timber for boats from Peter Holborow. [Ibid. No. 31.]
Jan. 14. John Morehouse to the Navy Commissioners. As it has been represented by the grand jury of Northampton that under the powers of the late Act I have charged 400 carriages upon that part of the county which lies within a distance of twelve miles, and thereby caused a great charge and oppression upon many towns and parishes within Northamptonshire, I beg to say that I have never since the first year charged any carriage, and then only to carry 700 loads, when the parish charged agreed with many of my carters to carry the timber for them, since when I have not charged any other, and never shall. I have created so many carters, and set their salaries in such a way, that they now strive to carry the timber and plank at his Majesty's price. I can show warrants that were never charged upon the country. [Ibid. No. 32.]
Jan. 15.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. Friday last came to Spithead by contrary winds a French man-of-war of about 30 guns, bound for Martinico. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 68.]
Jan. 15.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. This morning arrived from Malaga one of the town called the Malaga Merchant, who has been a month homeward; forty sail came with him. They hear of no Turkish men-of-war now abroad, the four that were out for five weeks having returned without any purchase. Sir Wm. Jennens is still here. [Ibid. No. 69.]
Jan. 15. The King to the Duke of York. Directing him to order all captains of men-of-war to pay the customary salutes to the City of Genoa. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 64.]
Jan. 15.
Plymouth.
Capts. Sir Wm. Jennens and Robt. Werden to the Navy Commissioners. We gave a certificate to Capt. Stephen Akerman of Plymouth, for 100 "hammacoes" received for the better supply of the supernumeraries and caulkers on board, and also for a cable for the Falcon furnished by Wm. Jennens; but the wind being fair and expecting to sail, we did not give an account by letter. The wind being now out of the way, we thought it necessary to remind you of it and to desire payment for them, as also of a bill for 2l. 2s. 0d. disbursed by the purser of the Falcon in taking down and setting the furnaces, the ship being in danger of fire until it was done. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 33.]
Jan. 10–16.
ditto.
Four news-letters. [The only intelligence not in the Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
Jan. 13–16. Jan. 13–17. This evening about nine and ten happened a sad accident, when Mr. Conquest of the Guard was suddenly killed in the street over against Suffolk House in the Strand by three Frenchmen, one whereof, named Du Val, is since taken and committed.
14th.—The trial of Mr. Lake and Mr. Wroth is put off till the next sessions, and they are likely to be bailed out till that time.
16th.—The term set by the French King for the Commissioners at Lille to adjust their disputes about the Dependencies [in Flanders] being almost expired, and little done therein, an interposition was made lately to the French King by the Mediators in the Triple Alliance for a prolongation of that term, which is likely to be granted; but the Dutch Ambassador, making his offer for a mediation with the rest of the Ambassadors, was told he might save himself the labour on that score, for that the French King was resolved to gratify the two Kings in it and not them. [12 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, Nos. 70–73.]
Jan. 16. King's letter to the Master and Fellows of Magdalene College, Cambridge, directing them to elect John Bilton, M.A., to the next vacant foundation fellowship, or any other of equal value (except that on Mr. Spendluff's foundation). [S.P. Dom, Entry Book 31, f. 65.]
Jan. 16. Reference to the Attorney-General of the petition of Thomas Vaughan, desiring liberty to keep common ovens in any place of the King's dominions. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 142.]
Jan. 16. Commission to — Scudamore to be ensign to Capt. Francis Digby at Deal. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 35a, f. 21.]
Jan. 16. Commission to Francis Digby to be captain of the foot company in the Admiral's regiment, whereof Silas Titus was captain. [Ibid. f. 21.]
Jan. [16]/26.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copy of letter of the 23rd, and hope the bills therein mentioned will be duly discharged. I have sent the victuallers the indents and a copy of my account for victualling the Jersey and other ships, and enclose some others for Sir Denis Gauden and Co., asking your Honours to receive what is due, so that I may have credit for the victuals issued on the new account. I forwarded the victuallers the account of 27 October. Though found correct, my bills lie unsatisfied. I hope Sir Denis and Co. will endeavour to prevent as many as they can from being noted and returned, as I must pay them, which is a great loss to me. I was necessitated to pay a bill so returned for 218l. 14s. 6d. drawn on them last July, payable to Sigr. Giovanni Francesco Saminaty and Guido Maria Strozzi, by which I lost 10l. 6s. 8d. I have now drawn another bill, including the latter sum, upon the Navy Treasurer, making together 229l. 1s. 2d., payable to the same persons, which I hope you will pay and will note it to Sir Denis Gauden and Co., as they have sufficient credit for it, and occasioned all the damage by their non-compliance. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 34.]
Jan. 17.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. Yesterday arrived Mr. Spar, master of the Golden Pelican, from Denia in Spain, who being bound for Malaga, for convoy with the Straits fleet, as he came about the Cape a small Algerine descried him and came up to him, and shot a few shot at him. Also he heaved at least a ton weight of hand stones into him. The wind being high, durst not board him, but gave him his stem (that is, ran the head of his ship to his broadside), and did him much damage; but the wind favouring him, escaped. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 74.]
Jan. 17.
Minehead.
John Maurice to Williamson. The Unity of this port, with wool from "Corka" in Ireland, bound for this harbour, was on the 8th by foul weather forced on the rocks in Freshwater Bay near Milford, and staved all to pieces in a moment. All the men saved; some of the wool came ashore, but was immediately carried away by the country people, although the high sheriff endeavoured to preserve the goods for the right owners.
Postscript.—The Blessing of this port, arriving here from Ireland, was forced from here, lost cable and anchor in this road, and with much difficulty got in the next day. Some of the men going out in their boat to find their cable were forced into Wales in a storm. [Ibid. No. 75.]
Jan. 17.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. I received a letter to-day signifying that not frequent writing was a crime. I must, when nothing presents I have omitted, and seldom in the news find anything from here. Last night was very tempestuous, so that a house near the sea was blown down, but no detriment done to the ships in harbour, though many. [Ibid. No. 76.]
Jan. 17. Dr. Edward Chamberlayne to Williamson. Mr. Martyn at my desire was at Whitehall with this book [The State of England], but not finding you, entreated me to send it you. He intends shortly to reprint this with the former part, and bind up both in one volume, for some of his customers, and to sell them apart to others. If you can spare any minutes to correct, alter, add or subtract what may be judged expedient, you will much oblige me. [Ibid. No. 77.]
Jan. 17.
London.
John Buckworth to Williamson. Having at your desire made inquiries on the Exchange for a fit person to go as Consul to Tripoli, I recommend the bearer, Charles Goldsmith, who, not many years since, was so well thought of by the Turkey Company, that he stood fair to have been sent their Consul for Aleppo, though he missed it by some few votes. [Ibid. No. 78.]
Jan. 17. Warrant for a pardon to Richard Tailor, of London, for having sworn an untruth in his answer to a bill in Chancery. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 189.]
Jan. 17. Grant to Edward Eckleston of the office of waiter in the port of London, on the surrender of Thomas Allen. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 4.]
Jan. 17.
Plymouth Sound.
Sir Wm. Jennens and Capt. Robt. Werden to the Navy Commissioners. Understanding that Mr. Lanyon had received orders to furnish the latter with some hammocks and a long-boat, we applied to him, and had procured a boat for 18l., but the owner refused to give credit, and Lanyon would not engage himself, although much pressed, as he had nothing to do with the King's business, so that it was sold to a Virginia man for the same money; but another is being built which we hope to get credit for without Lanyon's help. We doubt not your Honours have received our bills for the cables and hammocks; we could find no one to give us credit but Wm. Jennens and Capt. Eggerman. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 35.]
Jan. 17.
Plymouth.
John Lanyon to the Navy Commissioners. Excusing himself from not answering their letter, as he could not find either Sir Wm. Jennens or Capt. Werden, and stating that when he did and acquainted them of the contents, and that he was ready to procure the things ordered, they replied they had supplied themselves except with the long-boat, which the shipwright would not deliver without the money; that he offered to go with Capt. Werden to the shipwright and become answerable, and he promised to go, but since then the person that supplied the cable has undertaken for the boat, and as they have obtained the hammocks, there is no further occasion for him. [Ibid. No. 36.]
Jan. 17. John Morehouse to the Navy Commissioners. Again replying to the complaint against him by the grand jury of Northampton. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 37.]
Jan. 18.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. Last night arrived the Return from Madaras (Madras). Yesterday and to-day, in the storm, arrived about 12 sail from the Straits, the rest expected every hour. They saw very few pirates of Algiers. Notwithstanding the great fleet of about 150 sail, English and Dutch, in the Downs, no harm was done in the late great storms. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 79.]
Jan. 18/28.
Paris.
Clem. Cottrell to Williamson. I will not make any excuses for my long silence, since I cannot believe that my letters from Rome, &c., were anyway serviceable, you having had such good accounts from more capable persons from all places. I hope on my return to England in a few days you will furnish me with the means whereby I may testify the great sense I have of your favours. [1¼ page. Ibid. No. 80.]
Jan. 18. Order [to the Treasury Commissioners ?] to pay to Thos. Western of London, ironmonger, 1,321l. 16s. 1d., with interest at 6 per cent., from 23 Nov. 1669, instead of the same sum, payable to him by assignment, in the name of John Downing, from the additional aid of 1,250,000l. With note from Sir Rob. Long to Sir George Downing, dated 25 Feb., requesting payment of 91l. 9s. 3d. as interest of the above. Endorsed, "Anne Downing, the wife of John Downing, is the creditor; she transferred the debt to Mr. Western, who now sues her. Edm. Johnson solicits the business." [Ibid. No. 81.]
[Jan. ?] The doorkeepers of the House of Lords to the King. Petition stating that the petitioners until 1666 received from the Exchequer 100l. at the end of every session, but have not received it since, and praying an order to the Commissioners of the Treasury according as the Royal bounty shall be signified, both for their arrears and for the present session. Signed by eight persons. [Ibid. No. 82.]
Jan. 18. Reference thereof to the Commissioners of the Treasury, with that of Richard Wilson, messenger to the House of Lords. [S. P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 143.]
[Jan. ?] Ambrose Baynes of Radwinter, Essex, yeoman, to the King. Petition, stating that Patteson, an attorney, induced the petitioner to enter into a judgment for fees pretended to be due to him, and threw him into the Fleet, where he remained from June to November, 1667, when Patteson agreed to discharge him on condition of himself, his father and brother giving a bond for the debt and damages, which he executed, and Patteson sent it for execution by the others to Mead, an attorney in Cambridgeshire, who returned it as executed; that Patteson was indicted as a common barretor, and the petitioner was summoned and gave evidence against him, whereupon he was convicted, and out of revenge he then indicted the petitioner for forgery, alleging that the bond was not executed by the others, and the petitioner was convicted on Mead's evidence given to excuse himself, and praying for pardon. At foot,
Jan. 18. Reference thereof to the Attorney General, and his report in favour of the petitioner, his adversary though endeavoured to be summoned, not having appeared. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 83.]
Jan. 18. Another copy of the said reference. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 143.]
Jan. 18. Reference to the Committee for the affairs of Ireland of the petition of Sir Robert Harpole of Shroule, in the Queen's County, for remittal of certain quit-rents charged on his paternal estate by the Acts of Settlement and Explanation. [Ibid. p. 143.]
Jan. 18. King's letter to the Master and Fellows of Magdalene College, Cambridge, directing them to elect and admit Samuel Philips, a King's Fellow of the said college, to the first vacant foundation fellowship, or to one of equal value therewith. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 27, f. 161.]
Jan. 18.
Kinsale.
Peter Bronsdon to the Navy Commissioners. According to your orders, I and Capt. Rooth have appraised the Harp and her furniture at 140l. 18s. 4d., which is her real worth, she being so much decayed, and her timbers and other things named being broken and rotten. I have seen some woods of Sir Frecheville Hollis, but the timber is very ancient and decayed, and very little of it fit for his Majesty's use. I am now going by direction of Mr. Southwell and Capt. Rooth to Killmar (Kenmare) River, and to some other woods in the way, and on my return will give an account, as also of some others belonging to Sir Frecheville Hollis, said to be much better. I should have been more forward in my journey, but that the winter is very wet, so that I can hardly pass, and am forced to wait for the falling of the waters or go a great way about. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 38.]
Jan. 18.
Chatham.
T. Wilson to Thos. Hayter. As the Triumph is docked, asking for leave to come to London for a week. [Ibid. No. 39.]
Jan. 18.
Chatham.
Commissioner John Cox to the Navy Commissioners. I ask an order for some money to be imprested to Mr. Gregory for payment of the pressed men, fearing they will leave their work if they find none on Friday, as they had none last week, and only a part the week before, and they have no credit being strangers. The Henry is launched out of the single dock. I hope to dock the Triumph to-day. The Leopard and Plymouth are in the double dock, and their defects are much more than the survey expresses, so that they will be the longer in hand. I will see to the repairs of the six anchors as soon as I am able to go abroad, and send an account. [Ibid. No. 40.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
The King to the Privy Council of Scotland. William Lord Bellenden, late Deputy Treasurer for Scotland, has resigned his said office; but as he was nominated Privy Councillor in 1661, he is still to be continued as such, his said resignation notwithstanding. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 62.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
The King to the Privy Council of Scotland. Requiring them to admit Sir Jas. Dalrymple of Stair, President of the College of Justice, as a Privy Councillor of Scotland. [Ibid. p. 63.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
The King to the Commissioners of the Exchequer of Scotland. Having appointed Sir Jas. Dalrymple of Stair as one of the said Commissioners, requiring his admission in the usual form. [Ibid. p. 64.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Writ of protection, for three years from that date, for John Halleday of Tillieboll, who is under divers processes of horning, caption, acts of warding, &c., for moneys owing, which he is willing and able to pay, if he had freedom for a competent time for settling his affairs. [Ibid. p. 65.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
The King to William Duke of Hamilton, collector of taxations. Hearing that the Bishop of Argyle has a very mean provision, and is at great charge in bringing his share of the taxation, the said taxation is as a mark of extraordinary favour to be brought in at the King's charge, and he is to be repaid what he has expended thereon. A like favour was granted to the Bishop of the Isles, but no other can pretend to the like hereafter. [Ibid. p. 66.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
The King to the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland. Having signed a grant, changing the estate of Jas. Haliburton of Pitcurr, from ward lands to taxed ward, desiring, as his father suffered much for loyalty, and had a garrison of the usurper's forces kept in his house at Pitcurr, that the composition to be put on the said grant should be gratis, and that the taxed ward duty, with the reliefs and marriage to be inserted in the blanks thereof, be according to the retoured duty of his ward lands, any instruction to the contrary notwithstanding. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 67.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Warrant for Charles Maitland to be adjoined to his father in his office of Macer before the Lords of Session, and to execute the said office in his father's absence, or on his decease to be one of the ordinary macers. [Docquet. Ibid. p. 68.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a grant to Jas. Mowbray of the ward, non-entry, casualties, &c., of the lands of the late Andrew Arbuthnot of Fiddes, with the marriage of his eldest son, and in case of the latter's decease, of his next heir, male or female. [Docquet. Ibid. p. 69.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland to pay to Sir William Bruce of Balcaskie 400l. sterling, additional, in full satisfaction of his expense and labour in collecting and receiving, for the last two years, the cess imposed on the kingdom by the last Convention of Estates. [Ibid. p. 70.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Writ of protection, for three years, for Col. Wm. St. Clair, from all processes of horning, &c., to give him competent time to settle his affairs and pay his creditors. [Ibid. p. 71.]
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a patent conferring on—Hope of Kerse and his heirs male the dignity of a baronet of Scotland. [Ibid. p. 72.]
Jan. 18. Order in Council, on the petition of Colonel Richard Talbot, on behalf of his Majesty's most distressed subjects of Ireland, who were outed of their estates by the late usurped governments and are not yet restored, praying for the appointment of impartial persons to hear their grievances and to report the true state of their present condition, and in the interim for stopping the granting of any undisposed of lands in Ireland, appointing the Lord Keeper, the Dukes of Buckingham and Ormonde, the Marquis of Dorchester, the Lord Great Chamberlain, the Lord Chamberlain, the Earls of Bridgewater and Lauderdale, Lords Arlington and Ashley, Mr. Treasurer, Secretary Trevor, and Sir John Duncombe, a Committee of the Board, to meet first on Saturday the 21st, in order to consider the said petition and its contents and to report to his Majesty, and further ordering the said Colonel Talbot to attend them with a list of the persons he appears for, and to make proposals for their relief. [Nearly 3 pages. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, p. 6.]
Jan. 19. Dr. John Fell to Williamson. Upon the receipt of your French paper, I immediately went to the library, and found several of the tracts your friend desired. After several days, hearing nothing from any Queen's College man, who, you told me, would be ready to transcribe, I spoke to Mr. Haughton, supposing he was the person you would employ in providing scribes, but he had heard nothing from you. He promises his assistance, and shall not fail of mine, to look over what is done, for I suppose young men's work, who are not used to ancient hands, and the abbreviations, which vary according to several ages when they were written, will require some supervising. I have spoke with Dr. Ellys, who has not yet received any advertisement from his brother. If you could spare him till he has done his exercises and has taken his degrees, it would be desirable for him. Having been absent beyond the limited times, and not taken the Bachelor's degree, he must be dispensed with for all irregularities by a letter, which, if sp[eedily] sent, he may very quickly after be entirely at your service. But pray do not assist the Oxford undergraduate and Cambridge Master of Arts in his unreasonable pretensions, which will ruin all discipline among us. The days begin to grow towards a competent length, and if the draft were sent down foundations might be begun.
Postscript.—Ellis has very good parts, but whether his radicated melancholy may render him unfit for business, or whether business may not happily cure his melancholy, it is not easy to pronounce. The trial will not be inconvenient in any great degree either to yourself or to him, because of the possibility that he may be more fit for contemplation than action, and I suppose it may be best that he do not slip the opportunity of being made M.A. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 84.]
Jan. 19.
Swansea.
John Man to Williamson. Last week the Pearl of Plymouth, bound here in ballast to load coal, ran ashore in this river, and was beat in pieces, but the men saved. The like fate has befallen several vessels near Milford. Last Monday, at night, was the most violent storm known since the "horricane," about nine years ago. [Ibid. No. 85.]
Jan. 19.
Falmouth.
Thomas Holden to Williamson. The five English East Indiamen and the four Dutch merchantmen, bound for the same place, are still in port, ready to put to sea the first fair wind. The ships that were here, bound for the Straits, are gone for Plymouth, for the convoy there. [Ibid. No. 86.]
Jan. 19.
Falmouth.
The same to James Hickes. To the same purport as the last. [Ibid. No. 87.]
Jan. 19.
Milford.
John Powell to James Hickes. The harbour at present affords nothing worth notice. [Ibid. No. 88.]
Jan. 19.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. Tuesday last the White Unicorn of Amsterdam, laden with hides and tobacco from the West Indies, damaged in a storm, put in for repairs. She reports that the French greatly domineer there with their men-of-war, two of which are sunk, being eaten with the worms. [Ibid. No. 89.]
[Jan. 19 ?] "The case of the creditors of the Grocers' Company, presented to the consideration of the knights, citizens, and burgesses in Parliament assembled." In support of the Bill introduced on 19 January, proceedings on which were pending till March 15. [See Commons' Journals IX., 191, 220. Printed paper, 2 copies. Ibid. Nos. 90, 91.]
Jan. 19. Warrant for a grant to John Ford of a market every Tuesday at Ashburton, in Devon, for selling wool and yarn. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 188.]
Jan. 19. King's letter to the University of Cambridge, directing them to make Henry Banks, one of the King's chaplains, Doctor of Divinity. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 27, f. 163.]
Jan. 19.
Deptford.
Thos. Turner, storekeeper, to the Navy Commissioners. As to the complaint of Mr. Morehouse, the purveyor for Whittlewood Forest, that he cannot clear his imprest for want of my certificates for the timber brought into the stores, although he has often demanded them, I have not seen Morehouse at Deptford or heard from him since he passed his account last May, but have given Christopher Andrews, the bargeman, a certificate for each freight he brought in. By these certificates Morehouse paid Andrews for his water carriage, and by them he passed his own accounts for purveyance, so that it is not safe for me to give double certificates, lest your Honours should be misguided and his Majesty have to pay double purveyance for conversion of his timber. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 41.] Annexed,
Account by Thos. Turner of the nature and quantity of timber and plank contained in two freights brought from Whittlewood Forest by Mr. Morehouse and received into the stores at Deptford between 29 Oct. and 15 Nov. 1670, being 62 loads and 23 feet, with a suggestion whether Morehouse has not had two receipts given for them by Turner to Andrews, the bargeman. [Ibid. No. 42.]
Jan. 19.
Deal.
B. St. Michel to Sam. Pepys. Recommending the bearer, Thos. Brothers, a pilot of Deal and a good coaster, for a master's place in one of the King's ships to be fitted out next spring, he having served as such and as assistant to Capt. Fogg, master of the Royal Charles, and being accounted in Deal the most able and fit to take charge next to Capt. Scott. [Ibid. No. 43.]
Jan. 19.
Whitehall.
M. Wren to the Navy Commissioners. Desiring them on behalf of his Royal Highness to attend him to-morrow early, that he may despatch them before he goes to the Parliament, and asking them to hasten away the victuals to the Foresight and to give all despatch to the Milford and Adventure. [Ibid. No. 44.]
Jan. 19. Warrant to pay to Major Andros a sum for clothing. [Calendared in S.P. Col. America, &c., 1669–74, p. 157. Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 5.]
Jan. 19. Like warrant to pay to Sir Denis Gauden 200,000l. on account for the charge of sea victuals and other extraordinaries for 25,000 men in the fleets the ensuing year for eight months. [Ibid. No. 6.]
Jan. 20.
Whitehall.
The King to the Corporation of Shrewsbury. Recommending Serjeant Samuel Baldwin for the Recordership of that borough, vacant by the death of Sir Timothy Tourner, the approbation of the Recorder on any vacancy being reserved to the King. [Two copies. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 92, and S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 65.]
Jan. 20.
Treasury Chambers.
Sir George Downing to Williamson. On behalf of the Commissioners of the Treasury, desiring him to have the enclosed advertisement put in the Gazette. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 93.]
Jan. 20. Order in Council, on the petition of Nicholas Cholwell, commander of the Sommer Islands, merchantman— stating that in May last he and the ship were engaged in his Majesty's service to carry provisions and stores to Sir Thomas Allen to Port Mahon; that, having met with seven Turks men-of-war, she with two of his Majesty's ships and another merchant ship maintained a fight with them for two days together, and thereby sustained great damage to the hull, rigging, and sails, and spent powder and shot to the value of 400l., and afterwards safely discharged the said provisions and stores at Port Mahon; and praying his Majesty to make her a free English ship, she being two-thirds English built and belonging only to English owners for above sixteen years past—that Lord Arlington prepare a warrant granting the prayer. [1¼ page. Ibid. No. 94.]
Jan. 20. King's letter to the President and Fellows of Magdalene College, Oxford, directing them to elect and admit Peter Bennett, a demy, to the fellowship vacant by the death of Dr. Pelham. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 27, f. 162.]
Jan. 20. The King to the Dean and Chapter of Salisbury. Recommending Richard Hill, one of the prebendaries of that cathedral, on account of the satisfaction the King and the Duke of York had anciently in his service near their persons, for the first vacant residentiary's place. Two entries, the second dated the 22nd. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 35b, f. 12.]
Jan. 20. Warrant for John Sabine of Eyne, in Bedfordshire, to be a Baronet. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 70.]
Docquet thereof. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 51.]
Jan. 20.
Dragon, Cadiz.
Tubal Cain Porter, purser, to the Navy Commissioners. Asking for a supply of beer, as upon victualling the ship in London, there not being room to stow all the beer, he was forced to take a bill of Sir Denis Gauden upon John Mathews and Co., of Cadiz, for 348 pieces of eight, which they will not accept, and as he has not wherewithal of his own to obtain a supply, they will be very soon in want. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 45.] Enclosed,
Oct. 25.
London.
The said bill of exchange, drawn to enable Porter to provide beverage wine in lieu of beer for the said ship.
Jan. [20]/30.
Cadiz.
Notification by John Mathews and Co. that they refuse to accept the above bill, having no effects of the drawer, and having had advice from John Gardner, of London, of his bad compliance in the payment of their bill for victualling the Holmes frigate by his order. [Copies. Ibid. No. 46.]
Jan. 20.
Kinsale Fort.
Capt. Rich. Rooth to the Navy Commissioners. Thanking them for their letter by Mr. Brunsden, taking notice of his endeavours to recover a boom driven to sea which still remains unregarded; stating that he has advised Mr. Brunsden as to the most convenient places in those parts for obtaining timber for his Majesty's use, and has also recommended him to some persons having woods twenty or thirty miles off, where he presumes he has gone to view; and sending their valuation of the Harp frigate and her furniture. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 47.] Enclosed,
The said valuation. [Ibid. No. 48.]
Jan. 20.
Woolwich Ropeyard.
W. B[odham] to Thos. Hayter. Asking him to acquaint their superiors, and also Mr. Hutchinson, that they were on their way to London to receive the hemp, but were put back by the rain, and that if he had sent it down unweighed they would not have wronged him of an ounce, and never did any merchant, although they have trusted them in a like nature. There must be a close lighter to secure it, which will be sent on Monday, so as to save the demurrage on Sunday, subject to his directions by the bearer. If the hemp is weighed in London it will have to be weighed again here, as lightermen are not to be trusted, so that it will be an unnecessary charge and trouble, and no saving to the merchant. [1¼ page. Ibid. No. 49.]
Jan. [20]/30.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copy of my letter of the 26th, and ask that whatever bills I have passed or may pass upon the Treasurer of the Navy upon account of victualling may be discharged, and that you will prevail with Sir Denis Gauden and Co. to do the same with those lying unsatisfied which have not been returned to me for non-payment, some of which I have recharged upon them and been obliged to made good the loss occasioned by the exchange and other damages; but whatever may now come I shall draw upon your Honours; I presume no one has ever met with such hard measure. Capt. Bowen, convoy to the herring fleet, has arrived, and is ordered to Zante, to take all the merchant ships there under his convoy, and then proceed to England, but he will touch at Leghorn for three months' victuals, which are being got ready. I have all things ready for the Guernsey, Jersey, and such other ships as I presume will be in want of them, and as all things are purchased with the ready penny, I beg I may receive all just encouragement by a closing up of my old account. I enclose a letter from Mr. Gibson which will give you an account of the proceedings of our fleet, and of Sir Edw. Spragg's success in taking an Algiers man-of-war and a brigantine. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 50.] Enclosed,
Jan. [16]/26. Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to Sir Denis Gauden and Co. Complaining of their non-acceptance and non-payment of bills drawn by him upon them, and enclosing copy of his new account. [Ibid. No. 51.]
Jan. 20. Order in Council, on the two petitions presented on the 18th instant and on that day by Col. Richard Talbot, on behalf of the Irish outed from their estates by the late usurped governments, that Lord Arlington take care that no grant for any undisposed of lands in Ireland be passed till the King has finally decided on this and the previous petition. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 7.]
Jan. 21.
Weymouth.
John Pocock to James Hickes. On the 18th arrived the Rose from Malaga, whence she came with forty merchantmen on 16 December. They had for convoy Captain Beach and two other frigates as far as the Southern Cape. The Turks have two squadrons of men-of-war abroad, but they heard not of any vessels lately taken by them, except one small Newfoundlandman. Seven sail of Dutch and Hamburgers have been in Portland Roads a fortnight, waiting a fair wind. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 95.]
Jan. 21.
Lowicke.
Dr. John Ambrose to Williamson. High and mighty Mr. Joseph,—You may be pleased to remember the dialogue between Sir Edward Nicholas and myself, occasioned by your goodness, or I could not have spoken with him. Then I was a petitioner to him upon my own score, but got the dog to dandle, though I trayled a pike and lay purdieu (sic), as did the Duke of Albemarle, and ventured life and limb so long as the late King had any visible force. Now I am a petitioner to yourself, in the behalf of my nephew Hugh Askewe, a junior Bachelor of St. John's in Cambridge. He is more capable than any of a Foundress Fellowship, Cumberland having not had any these thirty years, though capable of two. I know no mandate can be granted without your knowledge; I humbly therefore beg of you the college may have a free election, and I hope the young man is qualified for manners and learning, or I should not speak in his behalf. [Ibid. No. 96.]
Jan. 21.
Minehead.
John Maurice to Williamson. The 17th, at dusk, the Agreement of London, from Bermudoes, with oranges and potatoes, went ashore in a storm to the eastward of our quay. She bulged very much, and lost all the oranges and potatoes loose in the hold, and some that were chested, though the best of the town watched all night to preserve the owners' goods. The vessel was canted and sold yesterday. [Ibid. No. 97.]
Jan. 21.
Milford.
John Powell to James Hickes. This harbour at present affords no news. [Ibid. No. 98.]
Jan. 21. Roger L'Estrange to — Richards. I cannot tell what papers my lord meant me to deliver you, unless those of my accounts. I delivered the bill of my extraordinaries to his lordship's own hand; and therefore, I suppose, direction was given to Mr. Babington to pay me 40l. His lordship's particular account for six months to the 15th instant was 50l. I request you to mind my lord of his promise of notifying his Majesty's pleasure to the Lords Commissioners concerning the sole printing of papers with blanks, in order to the passing of a grant before the rising of this session, otherwise I may find some difficulty about the papers to be printed on the collection of the new supplies. For better satisfaction of any scruple in case of exaction, it were well if the price were limited by the ream, so as not to exceed the ordinary rate of the King's printers. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 99.]
Jan. 16–21. News-letter. [The only intelligence not in other news-letters or the Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
The House of Lords have taken into consideration the Duke of Ormonde's assault by a Committee of the whole House, who have spent some time, and will shortly take some course for remedying the like for the future. Her Royal Highness still continues so indisposed as not to quit her chamber, and the Duke of Cambridge is said to be not well. [4 pages. Ibid. No. 100.]
Jan. 21. Capt. John Willgress of the Welcome to the Navy Commissioners. Asking for a bill for 20l. disbursed in manning the ship with 130 men and refitting her, having had the command since 3 Oct., the date of his commission, after which she was taken from Deptford into the Hope, where she remained some time, but proving leaky was ordered back to Woolwich to be docked. [S.P. Dom. Car. II. 296, No. 52.]
Jan. 21.
Whitehall.
Writ of protection, for three years from this date, to And. Stewen, merchant, of Edinburgh, from all processes of horning, &c., for debts owing by reason of his great losses at sea, that he may have competent time to settle his affairs and pay his debts. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 73.]
Jan. 21.
Whitehall.
Warrant for presentation of And. Bruce, minister at Kilrenny, to the second master's place in the new college of the University of St. Andrews, and commanding the Archbishop of St. Andrews to take his oaths of supremacy and obedience to ecclesiastical law. [Ibid. p. 74.]
Jan. 21.
Whitehall.
The King to the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland. Whereas the late Adam Keltie, clerk of that Exchequer, and of the King's house and Greencloth there, did good service in both offices and had sundry fees owing to him at his Majesty's last departure from that kingdom, they are to pay the same to David Watson, writer to the signet, and to his wife Isobel Keltie, only child of the late Adam. [Ibid. p. 75.]
Jan. 21.
Whitehall.
The King to the Treasury Commissioners of Scotland. Having consulted some of them several years ago about the purchase of the Bass [Rock], as he has now agreed to give Sir And. Ramsey, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, 4,000l. sterling for it, desiring them, with the Advocate, to take care that the security be good, and then to pay the 4,000l.; also to appoint some trusty person to view the buildings, and to report what ordnance is required to be placed thereon, what repairs are needful, what the charge will be, and also how it may be safely kept, at the easiest charge. [Ibid. p. 76.]
Jan. 21.
Dublin.
Ph[elim] O'Neill to Viscount Conway. Enclosing bills for 600l. sterling, for which he has paid 30l. exchange, which is mighty high, and requesting an acknowledgment thereof, and desiring him to put in a good word for him with Lord Orrery, that he may continue his agency for Moses Hill's troop, which Lord O'Brien, Lord Orrery's son-in-law, has got. To-day Mr. Edward and Mr. John Rawdon came here on their journey to school at Kilkenny. [Conway papers. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 8.]
Jan. 22. Lord Arlington to the Attorney-General. Forwarding the enclosed papers presented yesterday at a Committee of the Board appointed for this matter by Col. Talbot, as agent for the Irish Roman Catholics, for his perusal and consideration, and desiring him to attend the next meeting of that Committee prepared to give an account of the two Acts in this point, and such further assistance as may be necessary. [Copy. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 101.]
Jan. 22.
Serjeants' Inn.
Sir Wm. Morton, Justice of the King's Bench, to Williamson. The person you inquire after, named Washwhite, with two others, came before me and made the oaths mentioned in the paper enclosed against Sebastian Jones, and desired my warrant for his apprehension, and I, finding they had been Irishmen, easily granted it, hoping to discover from some of those parties something of the enterprise acted on his Grace. I examined Jones, but finding the accusation of Washwhite and the rest was bottomed rather on malice than just grounds, I bailed him. I asked Washwhite whether he, when in Ireland, knew Moore or Blood, and, as I remember, he told me he had heard of such men, but did not know them, but would inquire after them. I told him, if he would find them out in town and bring me word of them, I would gratify him for his pains; he said he would endeavour it. I employed Sebastian Jones on the discovery of Moore and Blood, who knew them in Ireland, who told me he knew some acquaintances of theirs here, and since has told me that Blood lives in Lancashire, but he cannot yet hear of Moore. He gives me some hope of discovering something of the Duke of Ormonde's business, and is to give me an account in two days. [Ibid. No. 102.] Enclosed,
Jan. 11. Information of John Washwhite, of St Clement Danes, cook. A little before the Restoration, Sebastian Jones was condemned to be hanged in Ireland for coining, and afterwards was condemned in Ireland with eight others who were executed for burglary and robbing the Earl of Meades [? Meath] and Alderman Penington in Dublin of plate to the value of 1,500l., but he procured a pardon for transportation, and, being bailed, fled to England.
Information of Edm. Hutchins and John Scott, of Piccadilly, cordwainers. On Monday last they heard one Sharpe, living in Soho, confess that the said Sebastian Jones offered him 50l. if he would go to Ireland and fetch the said plate, which was hidden underground. [Ibid. No. 102i.]
Jan. 22.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. Sir Wm. Jennens and the whole fleet are still here. A small ketch from Jamaica, arrived yesterday, tells of the flourishing condition of that island. [Ibid. No. 103.]
Jan. 22.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. We have had much foul weather these eight or ten days, and several shipwrecks in these parts; among them three Dutch ships have been lost on the Isle of Wight. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 104.]
Jan. 22.
Plymouth Sound.
Sir Wm. Jennens to the Navy Commissioners. I have already given your Honours an account of the Falcon wanting a cable, longboat, and hammocks, as also of 50 of the latter for the Princess, all of which I have procured and given bills upon you for payment. I received but two months' provisions for the supernumeraries, and, the best part of it being expended, I asked the victuallers attending the fleet to take the men, but they refused without your Honours' order, as they would break their charter party. My stay here has been longer than I expected, and I see no more hopes of a change than when I first came; so fear the victuals will fall short enough for my own men. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 53.]
Jan. 22.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant and Vice-Treasurer for payment to Joseph Deane, Deputy Postmaster-General of Ireland, of 400l. out of the first arrears of the hearth-money, before the same was granted to the present farmers, that shall be paid into the Exchequer, in consideration of the expense of 1,500l. incurred by him in building two packet-boats and buying a third, one of which, on 29 Nov. last, on the voyage from Holyhead to Dublin, was cast away near Arklow, and most of the seamen, besides passengers, lost. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 432.]
[Jan. ?] George Chare, senior B.A. in Trinity College, Cambridge, to the King. Petition stating that he was six years ago elected a Westminster scholar, and had since taken his degree and become capable of being a Fellow, but so many supernumeraries were chosen at the last election that there was no fellowship vacant for which he might sit, and being obliged before the next election to proceed to the degree of M.A., he would thereby become disqualified for a fellowship, and praying therefore a mandamus to the Master and Seniors to elect and admit him according to his seniority. On the back.
Jan. 23. The Earl of Manchester to Lord Arlington. Expressing his consent to the within-prayed mandamus, if his Majesty shall so please. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 105.]
Jan. 23.
Chester.
Ma[tthew] Anderton to Charles Perrott. The weather of late has been very tempestuous. Yesterday the Morning Star of Plymouth, laden with cheese and bound for London, sank in this river. It is hoped the cheese, or most of it, will be saved. Lord Fitzharding went hence this morning towards London. Lord Mount Alexander and divers officers and gentlemen have long lain here, waiting for an easterly wind to carry them for Ireland. [Ibid. No. 106.]
Jan. 17–23. News-letter. [The only intelligence not contained in other newsletters and in the Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
20th.—Yesterday-night was apprehended another person suspected to be concerned in the assault on the Duke of Ormonde, and was immediately brought to be examined before Lord Arlington, by whom he was committed to custody. The Lords have at last consented to the Bill concerning Sir John Coventry, with very few alterations, of which the principal are said to be striking out the clause relating to imprisonment for wounding any Member of Parliament, and making it felony without clergy assaulting or maiming any person, and making the day for their coming in, which was 16 Feb., to be twenty-five days after the passing of the Bill.
21st.—In order to the setting out his Majesty's fleet next spring, and an encouragement to the seamen, a considerable sum was yesterday sent down to Portsmouth for paying seamen and other naval expenses. The Emperor having some time since desired by his letters to his Majesty to come into the Triple Alliance, his Majesty has answered that he is willing to receive him into it, and it is likely it will be done in the very same form with the warranty already given to Spain at their desire. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 107.]
Jan. 23. Warrant for the denization of Moses Pereyra. [Calendared in S.P. Col., America, &c., 1669–74, p. 154. S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 190.]
Jan. 23. Wm. Castell to the Navy Commissioners. Giving particulars of work necessary to be done to the Crown frigate over and above that mentioned in the contract, which he estimates at 232l. [1¾ page. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 54.]
Jan. 23.
Woolwich.
John Shish to Col. Thos. Middleton. We have stripped the Ruby down to the channelwale on both sides. The top timbers are shot in pieces, and so torn that she must be stripped one or two strakes below the lower wale and the whole tier of top timbers shifted, when she will be serviceable for fifteen or twenty years. If we are to carry on the works of both ships, and a hundred more shipwrights are not pressed into the yard, they will not be finished this summer; but if men and materials are furnished, I doubt not but to complete the works of both by the first spring [tide] in May; 500 loads of compass and straight timber, besides 20 loads of knees and breast hooks, and also 150 loads of plank of all sorts, will be required. I have disbursed 55l. of my own money in pressing men for Portsmouth, Chatham, and Deptford. I ask that the Treasury be acquainted with it, so that I may have my money this week, and also for a warrant for pressing as many shipwrights and caulkers as shall be sufficient. [Ibid. No. 55.] Enclosed,
Estimates by John Shish of the repairs required to be done to the Ruby and Bristol, amounting to 2,170l. and 2,388l. respectively. [2 pages each. Ibid. Nos. 56, 57.]
Jan. 23.
Chatham.
Edw. Gregory and T. Wilson to the Navy Commissioners. We send Mr. Harrington's bill for Prussia deals and plank delivered. We cannot remember why his ship was detained from 11 November to 5 December, when she arrived 24 October, but are sure no unnecessary delay was given in the unloading, and refer to Commissioner Cox for a more particular account. [Ibid. No. 58.]
Jan. 23.
Chatham.
Edw. Gregory to the Navy Commissioners. I received a bill of imprest for 200l. upon account of board wages from Commissioner Cox, who acquainted me that you expected me to procure the money for it, which I am unable to do, and have no other way than committing it to the charge of my messenger, a common labourer in the yard, which you have before thought was a hazard. Upon receipt of the bill, I wrote to the paymaster to transmit the money, but fearing he may not perform, and knowing the great want there will be of 180l. for the men on Friday, I have signed the bill and sent it up by the bearer. I desire to be exempted from any risk, and hope it will be judged most reasonable for the King to abide the hazard where his service requires the transportation of his cash from one place to another. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 59.]
Jan. 23.
Deptford.
Jonas Shish, Capt. John Tinker, and J. Uthwat to the Navy Commissioners. We have surveyed and appraised the Black Dog hoy, and her apparel and other effects mentioned, at 98l.; the Adam and Eve hoy, at 85l. 8s.; the Hope galliot, at 70l. 13s.; the Harwich hoy, at 93l. 6s. 9d., and the Harwich muster boat, at 46l. 17s. [2 pages. Ibid. No. 60.]
Jan. 23. Thos. Pointer to Thos. Hayter. Asking him to look out all the papers sent by Phineas Pett to the Navy Board for the purpose of a fuller examination of his account for the Scottish affair, as also for the charter parties and papers relating to the Unity, the Arthur Bradley, and the Michael. With a note of their delivery. [Ibid. No. 61.]
Jan. 23. Robert Mayor to the Navy Commissioners. Asking for a warrant directed to Deptford for receiving 70 loads of elm timber from John Thomas. [Ibid. No. 62.]
Jan. 23. Commissioner John Cox to the Navy Commissioners. As to the defects of the Leopard and Plymouth, the shipwright has had orders ever since 31 December to get them despatched with all speed. I have delivered the imprest bill for 200l. to Mr. Gregory for payment of board wages to the pressed men, and as it is a weekly charge of above 50l., and nearly 200l. will be due on Friday, I ask your Honours to supply the clerk of the cheque with a greater sum, also to direct the Treasurer to cash the bills and send down the money, as Gregory scruples sending for it, or to be at the hazard of bringing it, and you also judged it was not fit that he should be. I will take care to supply the stores with things named, as cheaply as possible. The horse boat arrived yesterday. [Ibid. No. 63.] Enclosed,
Jan. 5. Contract by Mark Edwards, of Chatham, tallow chandler, with Commissioner John Cox, to deliver into the stores there 100 dozen of tallow candles, to be of 12 and 13 lbs. to the dozen, made of good tallow, at 4s. 10d. per doz., to be paid for on producing his bill. [Ibid. No. 64.]
Jan. 23.
Framlingham.
John Maddocks to the Navy Commissioners. Thanking them for their promise of payment for timber served according to contract; stating that if the delay in unloading the vessels at Chatham is not removed he shall suffer greatly by paying demurrage, and find it difficult to get any vessel to go thither; hoping the other two freights of plank have arrived, which will, with about four loads, complete the 200 loads to be delivered upon his last contract, and accepting their proposition on his tender of 500 loads more, upon their assurance that none who deliver in goods after him shall be paid before him; having written to his brother, Robert, to sign a contract in their book which he obliges himself to make good, in hope that if money comes in, they will grant him a bill of imprest for 300l., which will enable him to despatch it more speedily into the stores. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 65.]
Jan. 23.
Chatham Dock.
Phineas Pett to the Navy Commissioners. I find by daily experience that the docks and ships are much prejudiced, and a great charge and loss of time occasioned, by the vast weight of ballast, guns, and other things in the holds of ships brought into the docks, and that his Majesty is often put to much expense in employing workmen to lighten them in dock, whereby spring tides are often lost, and other difficulties experienced in docking the ships upon blocks. If the growing evil is not speedily prevented, it will ruin the docks and ships, by breaking the ground-ways, the late repair of which has been such a vast charge to his Majesty. [Ibid. No. 66.]
Jan. 23.
Whitehall.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Whereas by letters of 24 June last we signified that whereas we were informed that the inheritance of the town and lands of Lissallow, Glanella, Taberhay, Killumney, Ballyloghballey, Rahfuodagh, and Knockeghan, all in the barony of Ballintabber, co. Roscommon, was in our power to dispose of, and in case it be found that we had any estate or interest in the said lands or any part of them, you should forthwith cause effectual letters patent to be passed under our great seal of Ireland, containing a grant in due form to Father Patrick McGinn, almoner to the Queen, in fee simple under such rents and services as in our said letters are set forth; and whereas our Attorney and Solicitor General there reported that they found that the aforesaid several lands were assigned to Dudley Colclough of Moyart, co. Wexford, as a person transplanted, in lieu of his estate in the said county, and that Patrick Colclough, son and heir of the said Dudley, was by decree of our late Commissioners of our Court of Claims, dated 11 August 1663, immediately after the death of his said father restored to his former estate in the said co. Wexford, and that by a clause contained in our gracious declaration for the settlement of our said kingdom it is provided that where any person transplanted into Connaught and Clare be restored to his former estate the lands in Connaught and Clare be restored to us to reprize others, which our said Attorney and Solicitor conceive to be the ground of our title to the said premises; and whereas the said Dudley Colclough is lately dead, after whose death the said Patrick Colclough is by the said decree entitled to his said lands in co. Wexford, and therefore cannot pretend any right to the said lands which were set out in satisfaction for the said lands of Wexford as aforesaid; and whereas the said Patrick McGinn has assigned all his right and pretence to our said intended grant to Francis Lord Aungier, ViceTreasurer and Treasurer at War of Ireland: We, being graciously pleased to transfer to the said Lord Aungier all the benefit of our said intended grant so far as the same may be effected without disappointment of those general ends proposed by us in our gracious declaration, and the Acts of Settlement whereby such lands as we are entitled to by the said Acts are to be disposed of towards the satisfaction and reprizal of deficient adventurers and soldiers and other the uses therein expressed, do hereby signify that you forthwith cause the said lands and all and singular the premises to be granted by letters patent under our great seal of Ireland to the said Francis Lord Aungier in fee simple, he by himself or his agents first placing upon the said lands and assigning over to us such and so many good deficiencies of adventurers and soldiers or either of them as are satisfiable by the said Acts of Settlement and Explanation, and yet remain unsatisfied as the said lands according to the rules prescribed by the said Acts will be sufficient to satisfy. And whereas we are also informed that by the death of Arte Geoghegan, of Castletown, co. Westmeath, the inheritance of the town and lands of Bunonen, Aylebracke, two parcels of bog, Ballylope, Islandmeagh, Urrishe, Doulaghan, Inchecurra, Islandugge, Knocknargie, Dowhiman, Inish Luce, and Inishnan, with Three Rocks, an island near it, Ballyloamy, Island Kenall and Island Emell, Ballymackanoola, Ballylearbegg and Emlaghmore, Currascane alias Ursesque, Dowhynan, Mungagh, and Ardagh, and parts of Ardbeara and Murvoy, all in the parishes of Baldoony and Moyrush, in the Barony of Ballynelymeeke, co. Galway, is now in our power to dispose of: Our will and pleasure is, that, the said Lord Aungier or his sufficient agents first performing the like conditions with regard to the last-named lands as were required concerning the formerly mentioned lands, you forthwith cause the said last-mentioned lands and all and singular the premises to be granted by letters patent under our great seal of Ireland to the said Francis Lord Aungier in fee simple, to hold all and singular the said lands and premises from us as of our Castle of Dublin in free and common socage, under such rents as are payable by adventurers and soldiers or transplanted persons for lands in the said province. [Draft. 8 pages. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 9, and S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 433.]
Jan. 23.
Whitehall.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant to issue his warrant to the ViceTreasurer to pay, out of any money in or that shall come to his hands, the year's value charged on the lands set out by the late Commissioners of Claims for the repair of Duncannon Fort, the profits thereof having been swallowed up in repairs of the fort and getting the said lands settled, and the sheriff of Wexford now endeavouring to levy the said year's value by distraint. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 433.]
Jan. 24.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 108.]
Jan. 24.
Barnstaple.
Wm. Wakeman to James Hickes. Yesterday arrived the Exchange from Lisbon laden with sugar, and another small vessel from Cadiz. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 109.]
Jan. 23–24. News-letter. [The only intelligence not in the Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
23rd.—On Saturday night last was a Committee of the Council upon the business of the Irish Papists' address for restitution to their lands in Ireland, when Col. Talbot appeared as their agent. He and several of those gentlemen were heard, but the matter was adjourned.
24th.—Last night their Majesties were pleased to honour the French Ambassador with their companies at York House, at an entertainment, where was great dancing, and several principal persons about the town in masquerade. His Majesty, having had notice from Tripoli that in the absence of the English Consul that government had entertained great jealousies that we were wavering in our friendship with them, but that the Basha there had been extremely zealous to keep them right to us, is sending a new Consul there in a few weeks. The hearing of the complaints of the Irish Roman Catholics is referred to Saturday next. This morning, Washwhite, suspected as concerned in the Duke of Ormonde's assault, was brought to his examination at the bar in the Lords' House, where he would declare nothing. The evidence only against him is that he should formerly speak intimating that the Duke should not die in his bed; but nothing further appearing, he was only remanded to prison. [3 pages. Ibid. No. 110.]
Jan. 24. John Snell to Sir Thos. Lynch. I have searched at the Petty Bag, the offices of the Six Clerks in Chancery, and at the Crown Office, and cannot find the least footstep of any commission to Sir Thos. Moddyford; no, not so much as a docquet, which makes me conjecture it came from the secretaries signed by his Majesty, and by warrant immediately passed under the great seal. In such case there is nothing remaining with any officer in Chancery, save only the warrant, which remains with the seal bearer, who was then one Mr. Kipps, and is not now in London. The reason of my conjecture is because the revocation of his commission, which came to me the last week, passed thus, and I have the warrant by me now, and I am sure three or four years hence, if I should not be seal bearer, there might be as much uncertainty where to find this as the other. [Ibid. No. 111.]
Jan. 24.
Dover.
John Carlile to Williamson. I have not received a line from you since Will. Cooke came here with my lord's two horses. I would write oftener, but this winter has produced little or nothing but storms and bad weather. To-day arrived my Lord alias Sir George Hamilton from Calais; the winds are so strong from the southward and S. W. that our Flanders mails cannot possibly come over. There is three there at present. I question not but that you have the news of an Ambassador from Paris going to the Emperor about a marriage to be made between Monsieur and the Emperor's daughter. This is told me by one that came over this packet. [Ibid. No. 112.]
Jan. 24. Warrant for a licence to George Browning to construct a head or bank of timber and stone on the east side of the Ex, provided it be as high as, or higher than, the weir called Dove's Weir, in that river. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 189.]
Jan. 24. Reference to the Commissioners of the Treasury of the petition of Percy Church, desiring a lease of parcel of Holmer Grange recovered at his own expense. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 144.]
[Jan. 24.] Draft of the said reference. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 113.]
Jan. 24.
Foresight, Downs.
Capt. John Hayward to the Navy Commissioners. I ask for a supply of provisions, having but one week's victuals on board. I have acquainted Mr. Wren therewith. I received the cable from Deptford and also two others, an anchor and other things from Mr. Colmer. We were very badly cabled before, and now want cordage and other things, but I suppose it will not be long before they are ordered in. A ship from the Canaries reports that the fleet there would be ready to sail within ten days after her departure, which was 25 December. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 67.]
Jan. 24.
Kinsale.
Wm. Penn to the Navy Commissioners. The Newcastle and Dragon left 29 December. I have received their muster books, and will transmit copies by a friend to save expense. I send a certificate for the man I put on board the Harp frigate, and also a bill of my own disbursements in house-rent for stores. I hope you will consider of it on the disposal of the frigate. [Ibid. No. 68.] Enclosed,
Certificate by Wm. Penn that by virtue of an order from the Navy Commissioners he put Isaac Phippes on board the Harp on 3 April 1669, to take care of her, and that he remains there still. [Ibid. No. 69.]
Memorandum by the same that the house-rent for the sails, stores, and materials of the Harp is 3l. 10s. 0d. per annum, and commenced on 3 April 1669, and that when the frigate and stores are delivered up he will send their Honours the vouchers for the rent and for the removal of the stores. [Ibid. No. 70.]
Jan. 24.
Chatham.
Commissioner John Cox to the Navy Commissioners. After being some time in the yard, I observed that the master workmen and their instruments had no regard to the time of their coming or going to work, whereupon I commanded them to attend at the proper hours, and that the masters should look after their men instead of allowing them to idle away their time in setting to work, or leaving before the bell rang, which for a time was observed; but they having again become very remiss, though favoured by not being required to answer their calls like the others, in July 1670 I sent a warrant to the clerk of the cheque, requiring all master workmen and their instruments to attend their calls, and the storekeeper's instruments and others were also included, conceiving that so long as there were workmen in the yard, the stores ought to be attended, and not left wholly destitute. Notwithstanding which, they have come in at eight and later in the morning, and gone out at eleven, and come in at two, and then gone out at four. I am informed that Rawlings, one of the storekeeper's instruments, attending the iron office, so slights the warrant as to refuse to give any account of his coming and going, which makes me doubt whether he is not encouraged by the storekeeper, or he would not be so bold and confident. I would not have troubled your Honours with this account, had I not heard that some of the officers were much dissatisfied on behalf of their instruments, and that some of them, being in London, might make application concerning it. [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 286, No. 71.] Enclosed,
July 19. The said warrant to the clerk of the cheque, endorsed with several notes in shorthand by Pepys. [Ibid. No. 72.]
Jan. 9. Certificate, at Mr. Wilson's request, by Ph. Pett, that John Bowyer and four others, the storekeeper's instruments, were at their respective duties all the last week. [Ibid. No. 73.]
Memorandum of the attendance of the five persons before alluded to, for the week ending 7 Jan. 1671. [Ibid. No. 74.]
Jan. 24. Contract by Peter Hasler of Fareham, Hampshire, timber merchant, with Commissioner John Tippetts, to deliver into the stores at Portsmouth 12 dozen ash oars meting at 17 feet, at 16s. 8d. per 100 feet; 10 dozen hand spikes, 5½ feet long, at 4s. 8d. per dozen; and 800 feet of elm board, above ¾ inch thick, at 11s. per 100. [Ibid. No. 75.]
Jan. 24.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a patent conferring on—Seaton of Windygowle and his heirs male the dignity of a knight baronet of Scotland. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 77.]
Jan. 24.
Dublin.
Robert Leigh to [Williamson]. I delayed acknowledging yours of the 3rd, having returned to town only last night. The King's letter about Church valuations was delivered to the Lord Lieutenant by Mr. Frowd, but no fees are to be expected for it. Pray let me know about the fees on Colonel Dillon's letter, and on that touching pursuivants' allowances. Seven packets from England are now due. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 10.]
Jan. 24.
Whitehall.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Directing that whereas Murrogh Earl of Inchiquin has for some years past been in possession of the castle, town, and lands of Killnecurry, &c., in the barony of Barrymore, co. Cork, and the same have not been disposed of by the Commissioners for executing the Acts of Settlement and Explanation, and he is willing to place deficiencies thereon, and has besought a grant of the said lands towards satisfaction of the deficiencies now belonging to him or hereafter acquired by him, he is to examine and report on the truth of the said allegations, with his opinion, and in the meantime to make or grant no custodium or other disposition of the said lands. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 438.]
Jan. 24. The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. After reciting a mortgage dated 30 March 1612, by Daniel O'Harlike, of Ballyvorney, co. Cork, to Sir Richard Boyle, afterwards Earl of Cork, and Sir Thomas Roper, afterwards Viscount Baltinglass, of the lands of Treag-vallyvor-ving, containing 11 plowlands, in consideration of 165l., that Sir Richard Boyle was only a trustee for Sir Thomas Roper, that Sir Thomas entered on the lands and enjoyed them till the rebellion of 1641, that Murrogh Earl of Inchiquin had purchased them from the son and heir of the said Sir Thomas, or from other purchasers from him, that the said lands had never been disposed of by the Commissioners for executing the Acts of Settlement and Explanation, and that the said Earl, fearing some claim for redemption under the said Acts, has, as a purchaser for value, requested a confirmation thereof, the Lord Lieutenant is directed to examine and report thereon, with his opinion, and that the said Earl remain in quiet possession till the King's further pleasure be signified. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 439.]
Jan. 25.
Dover.
John Carlile to Williamson. Asking his assistance to the bearer, his kinsman, Mr. Golder, who has some affairs with Lord Arlington. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 114.]
Jan. 25.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. The late violent winds have hindered us from all news. No hurt done to any of the ships in the Downs, which are at least 150 sail. Last Monday a pink from Malaga, laden with wine and basket fruit for London, near the Narrow struck and is lost, but the men all saved. [Ibid. No. 115.]
Jan. 25.
Yarmouth.
Richard Bower to Williamson. Yesterday the packet boat from the Brill put in here and landed many passengers, who report that between the Maes and Flushing there is between 60 and 70 sail cast away, all laden, homeward bound. A vessel of Lynn, bound for London, anchored in this last storm to the northward of this town, was by another vessel fouling her forced from her anchors. The men with much ado put her ashore, who no sooner got out of her on land, but she was driven off to sea, and doubtless is lost. A great Newcastle collier of about twelve score chaldron of coal put ashore near our south pier. She was forced from her anchors about Aldborough, and proved so leaky that they could keep her no longer. There is little or no hope of saving her. Capt. Clarke sends his humble and hearty thanks for your assistance, and informs me that he delivered you the copy of Sir Thomas Medowes' letter to Lord Townsend, giving his reasons why he could not join in commission with Mr. Huntington, whom my lord would have putupon him for a captain, since which my lord has sent a commission to Mr. James Johnson to be Major of the town in the room of Sir Thomas Medowes, upon which there was a muster appointed, but the order from the King and Council with the narrative of the condition of the town being come to my lord's hands, has put a stop to the muster, so we wait the issue. [Ibid. No. 116.]
[Before Jan. 25.]
Yarmouth.
Sir Thomas Medowes to Lord Townsend. Last post informed you that I could not return a positive answer as to the Major's place, owing to indisposition. How those men who were actors-in- arms in the late horrid rebellion should be esteemed by you the only men for public trust and the fittest for your correspondence, begets here an admiration in all that are truly loyal. Formerly I received instructions from yourself or deputy lieutenants, but now Mr. Johnson must convey your commands. Whether the commendations of others or their own pretended loyalty has wrought them thus into favour, passes my understanding; but when their actings are known, their commendations and seeming loyalty, I presume, will be of no validity. Therefore be pleased to peruse this true and impartial account. After you had purged the House here of all the Independents and of most of the Presbyterian faction, the government of this town for some years continued in the hands of those who were well principled to the King and Church's interest, and the laws against the Nonconformists were duly put in execution, insomuch that there was not a private meeting except by stealth, and if discovered [they] were prosecuted, so that many of Mr. Bridge's members, and those the most eminent, came duly to church. But in 1666, Mr. Thaxter and Mr. Huntington coming to the cushion, the Nonconformists who frequented the church forsake it, and those turbulent spirits who before left the town, now return, their meetings public, and their numbers daily increasing, and not the least notice taken to restrain them. This permission or connivance of theirs puts the Independents upon bringing Mr. Bridge to town, they knowing that those in whose hands the government then was were in the late unhappy times joined with them both in the power military and civil. Therefore, to try if they retained their old principles and affections. Mr. Samuel Shipdham, one of Mr. Bridge's congregation, goes to every one of the Presbyterian party interested in the government, to crave their charity for the ejected ministers, Presbyterians and Independents. This experiment gave the Independents such satisfaction on their so general and free a contribution from the aforesaid parties, that Mr. Bridge is immediately brought to town. Then they flock together in great numbers at the house of Captain Ravens, son-inlaw to Mr. Bridge, who about that time was taken in for a common council man by Mr. Thaxter and Mr. Huntington. And when it was moved in the Assembly that he might, as the custom was, there publicly renounce the Covenant, they opposed it, and said he should do it at their house, where he set his hands to a paper as signifying the thing done, when he had not in the least renounced it, as he himself afterwards confessed. Thus they began to recruit the House with the old tribe, so as to overpower the King's party, there being at present about thirty who have not received the Sacrament. The faction thus increasing, one place would not suffice, but the grand meeting is brought to a house upon the open quay, within a door or two of Mr. Huntington, he being then one of the magistrates of the town, where he sees them continually resort and puts not the least check on them. Perhaps their coming thus near him might be out of respect to his wife in regard to her lameness, she being a member of Mr. Bridge's congregation and a constant frequenter of their meetings. This may satisfy you what encouragement was given by Mr. Huntington to make void the former Act for Uniformity, by which we may judge on what design he put those tricks on Captain Clarke in the execution of his office on the late Act against conventicles. It is well known how zealous and active the said Huntington was, when a lieutenant here, in the Committee of Safety's time, in levying money for payment of his soldiers, only by virtue of a commission from that committee. When some of the other officers refused to collect it, he reproached them for their disaffection. Since he was nominated a captain by you, a short time before our new bailiffs were elected, the old ones before the day of election, to prevent the dispute which arose last year about who were capable to be electors and elected, moved in a full Assembly that the churchwardens might search the church books and bring in an account, who had received the Sacrament and who not; but this was opposed by him, he and his party having pestered the House with their creatures, one of whom is now got to the cushion and has chosen this Mr. Huntington for his justice of the peace, whose carriage in church is so undecent and irreverent, that it is generally taken notice of, for during the prayers and confession of the faith he is sitting, whilst others are standing and kneeling. Pray consider that of 12,000 communicants estimated to be in this town, there are not 500 who have received the Sacrament, and many of these receive collection money, so I humbly conceive it cannot consist with the King's and the Church's interest, your honour, the safety and peace of this town, to put men in commands possessed with the foregoing principles, nor can I in honour join with Mr. Huntington. [The copy referred to in the last letter. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 117.]
Jan. 25. Testimonial by William Lloyd, D.D., John Starky, D.D., of Bury, Lionel Gatford, M.A., and Charles Preston, M.A., Fellow of Magdalene College, Cambridge, in favour of Jonathan Lawe, clerk, B.A. [In Latin. Ibid. No. 118.]
Jan. 25. Warrant for registering the ship Sommer Island as an English ship, in accordance with the prayer of the petition printed ante p. 33. [Copy. Ibid. No. 119.]
Jan. 25. Sir Samuel Morland to Williamson. I forgot last night to give you a hint concerning the sum the King grants me—that, it being at eight payments in two years' time, I must give a considerable sum for the advance thereof for a purchase. Besides, I am something in debt, and both together will make some abatement that I shall not have just what the King grants to lay out. Therefore, I beg that one eighth part or two might be made payable at Christmas last, which will be all one to the King and a great help to me. In compounding, 300l. at 12 years' purchase comes to 3,600l.; at 13, to 3,900l. If it might be made 3,900l. or 4,000l., it would do my business completely. [Ibid. No. 120.]
Jan. [25]. Warrant to the Clerk of the Signet to prepare a bill for the King's signature to pass the great seal, containing a presentation of William Shippen to the rectory of Kirkheaton. [Draft or Copy. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 121, and S.P. Dom., Entry Book 35b, f. 12, where it is dated 23th (sic).]
Jan. 25. Docquet thereof. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 6.]
[Jan. ?] Thomas Chiffinch, servant to his Majesty, to the King. Petition praying that his warrant for the King's waiter's place in the port of London granted more than two years ago, and hitherto ineffectual because of grants to others, may take effect on the present vacancy. [S.P. Dom., Car. II, Vol. 287, No. 122.] Annexed,
Draft reference thereof. [Ibid. No. 123.]
Jan. 25. Reference of the said petition to the Commissioners of the Treasury, his Majesty in gratification of the petitioner's constant and near attendance in his service declaring he will grant it, unless it be attended with some manifest inconvenience to his service. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 144.]
[Jan. ?] Draft of the above petition. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 124.]
Jan. 25.
Bristol.
Fras. Baylie to the Navy Commissioners. Hearing that his Majesty and the Council have ordered the building of a ship or two in this city, I shall be very ready to serve you, being well provided with plank and timber; or if there is no intention to build, to sell it if you will state the price per load to be delivered at Portsmouth. I cannot wait upon your Honours, having had much sickness for the last six months. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 76.]
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Warrants for patents creating Charles Hackett of Pitfirren and John Hoome of Blackaderre baronets of Scotland. [Docquets. S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, pp. 77, 78.]
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Warrant for Andrew Sheill to transport to Edinburgh the hawks due to the King yearly out of Orkney and Shetland. [Docquet. Ibid. p. 78.]
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Six warrants for charters granting to the following persons the following lands respectively:—
James Schoner, Caskieberring, in Fife.
George Gibson, Auchmoutie, in Fife.
Adam Urquhart, Meldrum, and erecting the town of Old Meldrum into a free barony.
Sir James McGill, Nether Rankeillor, Auld Lundoris and Grange of Lundoris, with a novodamus erecting the same into a free barony.
Alexander Abernethie, Auchincloich and Shaddow, Ternenine, Meyen and Quoir, and Corskellie.
Robert Rosse, Kilcairny and Kiltoun, in Fife, and erecting the same into a free barony.
[Docquets. Ibid. pp. 79–86.]
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Warrant for a confirmation to Sir Andrew Ramsay, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, of a gift by the commendator and convent of Dumfermline to the possessors of the saltpans about Kirkcaldy, anent the winning of coals under certain lands, with a novodamus to him of the saltpans near the town of Kirkcaldy, with licence to win coa under certain specified lands at the rents therein mentioned. [Docquet. S.P. Scotland, WarrantBook 1, pp. 86–87.]
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Warrant for gift of recognition in favour of Alexander Ritchie and others of Margaret Hepburn's half of the lands of Preston in the parish of Linlithgow. [Docquet. Ibid. p. 88.]
Jan. 25. Warrant to Francis, Lord Aungier, Vice-Treasurer of Ireland, to pay Sir Edward Deering, late one of the Commissioners for the Settlement of that kingdom, 140l., the arrears of his allowance for diet and lodging. [Copy. 1½ page. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 11, and S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 442.]
Jan. 26.
Deal. Aboard the Black Spread Eagle.
William Bexby. Receipt for one packet received from the Post at Deal for Sir Edward Spragge. Note by Morgan Lodge: The other is aboard the Unity for Lisbon. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 125.]
Jan. 26.
Swansea.
John Man to Williamson. Yesterday arrived a small vessel of this place, from Lisbon, laden with salt. The master states that coming thence fourteen days ago, there put into Lisbon seven French men-of-war of 50, 60, and 70 guns apiece, and that an Englishman that sailed with them told his company that they came from Guinea, and of ten men-of-war and 5,000 men they landed there not one man came on board again. The Dutch fell upon them and destroyed their Admiral and two men-of-war besides, and all the men they landed. The master says there came about 40 sail of Dutch, French, and English from Lisbon at the same time, but were separated by contrary winds and storms. The same day came in the Loyal Friendship from Malaga to Kinsale with fruit and wines. The master reports that about five weeks ago they came thence with about forty merchantmen, and their convoy, who left them some few leagues from Cadiz, and returned to convoy vessels bound for Tangiers with money and provisions for the garrison. The merchantmen were separated by storm, and he miraculously preserved from shipwreck, which undoubtedly the night after he came here he had suffered, had he not met accidentally the aforesaid Swansea vessel, who brought him safe here. [Ibid. No. 126.]
Jan. 26.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. The Resolution, which Sir Thomas Allen commanded in the Straits, is paid off to-day. [Ibid. No. 127.]
Jan. 25–26. News-letter. To-morrow set out the two ships wherein are embarked much of the goods and household stuff of the Prince of Orange and many of the servants and persons of quality that accompanied him hither, so that it's thought before long the Prince himself will return. Her Royal Highness is much better, but dares not as yet venture to go abroad. His Highness the Duke of Cambridge is also indisposed, being not quite well of the cold he lately got, but it's supposed without danger to his person. Complaint having been made to his Majesty in Council of the many impediments daily arising by the dirty keeping of the streets of London and Westminster, he has been pleased to order that the justices of the peace see that every inhabitant constantly every morning clean their doors, which is immediately to be conveyed away by the scavenger, that it may be remedied for the future. [3 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 128.]
Jan. 26. Reference to the Bishop of Oxford of the petition of Richard Lloyd, D.D., desiring a presentation to the rectory of Banby in Lincolnshire. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 144.]
Jan. 26.
Victualling Office.
Sir D. Gauden to the Navy Commissioners. There is not any victuals ready at Plymouth, and I am not in a condition to provide any for the Princess and Falcon, having received not a penny towards this year's declaration, or of that appointed to be paid for those sent for the fleet in the Straits with so much difficulty. A small proportion of money was appointed for this year's action, which, if received, would have enabled me to have made provision for the despatch of the Assistance, Milford, and Adventure, and provided some small matter besides for any emergency; but failing of that and other supplies, I am rendered incapable of doing what is required, which I would otherwise have readily performed. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 77.]
Jan. 26.
Deptford.
M. Wren to the Navy Commissioners. Asking them to hasten away the victuals for the Foresight, as he understands they have only sufficient for two or three days, and that they will inquire the reason why Mr. Shish has taken off two of the labourers employed in the house and garden there, and give directions therein, having received a complaint from Mr. Howard about it. [Ibid. No. 78.]
Jan. 27.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. Bad weather continues still. This last week another house was blown down, yet no harm to any, nor any detriment to any of the fleet, now very considerable in our harbour. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 129.]
Jan. 27.
Minehead.
John Maurice to Williamson. Yesterday, off the quay, some of our seamen discovered a piece of wreck near half a league. They launched their boat and found only a yard and sail of some small bark. [Ibid. No. 130.]
Jan. 27. Richard Wilkinson to Prince Rupert. Their great shyness made me almost despair, but finding the same faces at meetings and the same language used by them—to wit, that the King was like Pharaoh and themselves Israelites, &c.—having some knowledge of Singleton, one of the guard that Mason escaped from, I went and drank with him and found he professed himself to be his Majesty's faithful subject; so after causing him to make some serious protestations, I told him I knew a place in the City where I believed we might find all or most of the rescuers. He professed he was very glad of it, and believed it would be a piece of acceptable service, and was confident he knew them all, and would do anything I ordered without revealing it. My intention was to have taken him with me that I might have perfect knowledge of them for the future; but next night, the 26th, came the party to my lodging that gave the first information, and was very free with me, and at last told me Father Thomas, alias Mason, was he who had engaged to fight his Majesty's guards with fifty men, and lodged not far off me in White Horse Court, near London Wall. One of his friends was lately taken named Coutnay, a Gravesend man. Butler, alias Baker, was a steward to the said Coutnay. Likewise the chief time of their meeting is in the evening, and he would go with me to it. He judged the next would be on London Bridge, and I should hear one Goodgroome, formerly chaplain to Lord General Monk, and then it was like Father Thomas would preach, but he would certainly be there; so I think I shall not make use of Singleton, because if he knows them so well, they must certainly know him, unless he be all the more disguised. I have taken leave of my friends, as though I were to go to Holland or the West Indies. My charge has been extraordinary of late, and I therefore humbly beg your Highness to move his Majesty to grant me a further supply, and to give me a special order to summon constables, soldiers, or others to our assistance, for now I question not but to have suddenly opportunities enough. I humbly beg your Highness to order Mr. Pitt a speedy answer to his lodging. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 131.]
Jan. 23–27. News-letter. [News identical with that of 23rd and 24th, and with the next.] [3 pages. Ibid. No. 132.]
Jan. 27. King's letter to the Master and Fellows of Trinity College, Cambridge, directing them forthwith to elect and admit George Chare, B.A., a Westminster scholar, to a fellowship. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 31, f. 65.]
Jan. 27.
Chatham.
Commissioner John Cox to the Navy Commissioners. I cannot return you an account at present as to ships being brought into the docks loaded with ballast, guns, &c., to the injury of the ships and docks, as having caught cold after my illness, I am again confined to my chamber. I hope to be well in a day or two, when I will give one, as also of Mr. Harrington's business about unloading his plank and the time spent in clearing his ship. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 79.]
Jan. 27.
Plymouth Sound.
Sir Wm. Jennens to the Navy Commissioners. Thanking them for accepting his bills and promising to take care about the boatswains' receipts, and reminding them that the provisions wasted apace, having 150 men living upon them, and that the supply for two months for the men carried to the fleet is expended. Weather extreme bad with rain, and there is little likelihood of its changing, which makes all here very sorrowful. [Ibid. No. 80.]
[Jan. 27.]/Feb. 6.
Leghorn.
Sir Thos. Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copy of letter of 30 Jan., recommending it to your Honours' mature consideration. I thank your Honours for the favour done me in yours of 24 Dec., and for your so effectually laying my present condition and sufferings through Sir Denis Gauden and Co. before his Royal Highness. It is some relief to me to understand that through your protection I am at last secured in my interest, and have such good paymasters as yourselves appointed for the discharge of my bills. I was at the height of desperation when considering with what zeal and affection I had launched out to serve my King and country, and yet finding all my weekly advices, like Job's messengers, hastily bringing me such doleful tidings as threatened the ruin and destruction of myself and family. No man ever dealt so severely and cruelly by any one as Sir Denis Gauden and Co. have with me, by not finding a way to pay one of my bills, proceeding as men gaping for an opportunity to overthrow me and blast some of his Majesty's designs abroad, knowing there are very few abroad who carry a public and generous spirit about them. Secretary Wren gave me his Royal Highness's resolution as to the care that was taken of me, upon which I have already passed five small bills upon the Treasurer of the Navy upon my victualling account, beginning with the Jersey, as also another bill for 229l. 1s. 2d, in extinction of another for 218l. 14s. 6d., including expenses, which was accepted by the victuallers but protested and returned. I send my first account with Sir Denis Gauden and Co., which my kinsman, Jasper Clotterbooke, merchant in London, advised was approved at the victualling office, and am sure there is not one article they can object against; and as my first and last accounts are now lodged in your Honours' office, I ask that what bills I may draw upon you, upon the victualling account, may be duly accepted and discharged, as for the future I shall pass my bills upon your office and not upon the Treasurer as first directed, and note them to the victualler's account. The bill drawn last November upon your office for 386l. 5s. 0d. payable to Mr. Exton was for the balance of my accounts for disbursements and not for victualling, and after I had given it to Sigr. Millanesi he returned it, on which I exchanged it with Dethick and Co. at Leghorn, who ordered it to be made payable to Exton, and if it is passed to the victualling account, I desire you will correct the error, and that the several other bills drawn on the victuallers and accepted by them which lie unsatisfied, notwithstanding they have credit for them in my accounts, may be either immediately discharged by Sir Denis Gauden and Co. or by the Treasurer, so as to save more loss by exchange and other expenses. As to any effects lodged in my hands by Sir Thos. Allen for the King's account, I never received anything from him or any other except sixty-five slaves, many of whom were infirm and decrepit, and the small sum I have in hand as the remains of their produce will not make good the damage sustained by the return of the bills which were protested through Sir Denis Gauden's disappointments. I enclose an account, &c., for Sir Thos. Allen, and ask you to prevail with him to read it to you, and I hope the proposition will be esteemed modest and just, which, if granted, I shall thankfully acknowledge by a zealous prosecution of his Majesty's interest. Capt. Bowen attends several merchant ships designed eastward, and has given warrants, one of which is enclosed, for four months' victuals to be got ready for him against his return, since, as Sir John Harman and his squadron and Capt. Poole and several others have put their men on full allowance, he, Capt. Bowen, has thought fit to do the same, wherein I could not but concur, as it will be no aggravation of expense, and we have sharp weather, which creates hungry bellies, that nourishes discontent among the mariners. I hear from Capt. Poole at Messina that four Algerines are lying off Cape Sparteventure, so I shall contribute to the best of my assistance as well in the despatch of all men-of-war as merchantmen to disappoint the design of the enemy, for if we can by a careful convoy preserve our poor merchantmen from their clutches, the hearts of these rogues will be soon broken and they will solicit our King to make peace. I have disbursed 2,000 pieces of eight for stores supplied to ships not relating to victualling, but defer sending an account until Capt. Poole returns to Leghorn, and I hope you will allow me five per cent. thereon, as I have before valued it at, causing perfect bills to be made out in conformity therewith. [5 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 81.]
Jan. 27.
Whitehall.
Commission to Walter, Lord Torpichen, to be captain of the militia troop of horse raised in Linlithgowshire and Peeblesshire. [S.P. Scotland, Warrant Book 1, p. 89.]
Jan. 27. The King to the Lord Lieutenant, and the King to Sir W. Domville, Attorney-General of Ireland. Concerning the prosecution of James Shirley for rape, being the letters directed by the order in Council of the 13th instant, and following the terms thereof. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, pp. 438, 437.]
Jan. 27.
Whitehall.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant and Council of Ireland, directing them to inquire into the disputed accounts between Sir Daniel Bellingham, late Deputy Vice-Treasurer of Ireland, and Edward Corker, formerly employed by him, and to report thereon. [Draft. 1½ page. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 12.]
Jan. 28. Another copy so dated. [S.P. Dom., Signet Office, Vol. 7, p. 443.]
Jan. 27.
Dublin.
The Lord Lieutenant and the Privy Council to Lord Arlington. In reply to the King's letters of 23 Sept. last, recommending Patrick Archer's services and sufferings, with the advice of the Commissioners of the Treasury and the Committee for Ireland, that the debt due to him be discharged by a payment of 1,250l. per annum for five years, and of 44l. in the sixth out of the Irish revenue, referring to their former letter of 5 Sept. last, and the enclosures therewith, which show that the revenue for the half-year ending 30 Sept. last amounted to 77,250l., and the charges for the military and civil establishment to 150,202l. 17s. 0¼d., leaving a deficiency of 72,952l. 17s. 0¼d., so that the debt to the last of September amounts to 245,510l. 5s. 2¼d., and nothing remains uncharged whereon to charge the said Archer's debt. [2½ pages. S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 13.]
Jan. 28.
Sayes Court.
John Evelyn to Williamson. "I at last transmit the synopsis or project of my work, which, for want of a fit scribe, I have been fain to draw over myself twice; one of which (somewhat more improved) I intend to give Mr. Treasurer. They are both with blanks, that according to your promise you may perfect defects, and give me such hints as are requisite to guide me through.
"I have already made good progress upon many of these heads, but they will not be consummate or fit to be tacked together till all my intelligence comes in, which you only can help me to. In particular I want (greatly) the Letters, Instructions, and Negotiations of our Ambassadors and others, also the several Treaties and Articles: those made with Cromwell I would gladly see; some papers about the Committee of Trade I want, &c.
"I have diligently perused the last monstrous volume, Aitzema's Oorlogh, which was by no means to be passed. Yet there seems to be another—this does not reach to the end of the war; pray inquire concerning it. I am amazed at the man's industry, and our negligence; they kept nothing from him in Holland, and there are many rare pieces in it and much trash. By a letter I have by me, the book seems to be already in French, quœre amabo.
"I conjure you to set some time apart seriously to furnish the pieces I want, that I may cheerfully pursue my method; for if I must be forced to insert them after I have finished, the commissures will be seen, and 'twill put me to double pains.
"I likewise earnestly request you to be sometimes casting your eye over the papers I now send, and to consult seriously and at good leisure with my Lord Ar[lington] and Mr. Tr[easurer], where I shall take scope, touch gently or make it smart. Likewise, if there be (as I apprehend there sometimes may) any dislocations in point of date, and the series of actions, these particulars I require of you, and that you will possess my Lord Ar[lington] that this structure is not the work of a day or two, but will merit a good allowance of time, and no small application. It is labour for a strong beast, but I am anything he commands me to be.
"I am now trimming up my Preface, which none has yet seen, but my lord's was the argument. Within some competent time, I shall present him with it finished, but shall proceed with no courage on the rest till you have done furnishing all my subsidiaries, and then as I can despatch them you shall receive them by parcels, such as may not tire you in reading, and perhaps by my lord's address and kindness to the work his Majesty may be induced to cast his eyes upon them, that after his animadversions or approbation (being returned) they may be prepared for whatever he designs them.
"That I have not been very remiss, 24 full sheets of paper which I have written this very week, and 1,079 pages (for no fewer does your Aitzema contain) which I have perused, and transcribed out of, may give you some assurance; and yet I have my beads to say, and a family to consider, and a number of other impertinences of my own life; I lay by all my Amoena studiorum and refreshments to emerge a statesman (what not ?) at 50, and be laughed at, if I do not succeed. But my lord and you shall bear the blame, for enjoining me a province I was not capable of, and I can write sharply, and make the world feel the nib of my pen an hundred year to come. Nemo me impune—Therefore treat your Historiographer kindly, and indulge him now and then an excursion.
"Postscript.—I herewith likewise send you my thoughts concerning your other laudable design, which I would be glad you should promote for the good of our society." [2 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 133.] Probably enclosed,
"The chiefe heads or titles which I propose to myselfe in the contexture of the history of the late warr with Holland, &c., humbly submitted to his Majestie's Animadversions," by J. E., containing heads of political transactions between England and Holland from 1585 to 1671, with a proposal for an appendix of documents and a query whether the late affront from the King of Denmark should be noticed. [7 pages. Ibid. No. 133i.]
Jan. 28.
Plymouth.
List of the names, masters, cargoes, ports, and places of sailing and destinations of six vessels. [Ibid. No. 134.]
Jan. 29.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. Six Canarymen arrived to-day. I humbly pray you to accept of this small present. [Ibid. No. 135.]
Jan. 29.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [Ibid. No. 136.]
Jan. 29.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. This tempestuous weather makes us very barren of news. The fleet is all safe. [Ibid. No. 137.]
Jan. 29. Dr. Edward Chamberlayne to Williamson. To give a brief account of the present state of Ireland, I shall, at your request, very willingly undertake; but then let me beg you to consider how I may have some small recompense for my services, for I am told by several that by my little treatises, as well before as after the restoration, I have deserved at least some favour both of Crown and Church, yet I never received or asked a penny from either, though the King at his coming into England promised that I should be remembered amongst others. I have a wife and children, old age approaches: some petty place of profit for the one and of honour for the other would easily satisfy my ambition, the height whereof is only to pass the residue of my days in some poor headship of a hall in Oxford, where I might employ my time in governing and directing the studies of young gentlemen, and serve the University in entertaining of strangers by the several languages I acquired in foreign parts, and have leisure to finish some treatises begun by me, or rather to undertake any new task you shall impose upon me. I shall shortly wait on you with a draft of the particulars for Ireland. [1½ page. Ibid. No. 138.]
[Jan. ?] Petition of Thomas Grey to the King, stating that he is seised in fee of the manor of Epping and the wood called Wintrey Parke, or Wintrey Common, or Wintrey Wood, in the forest of Waltham, and of a fair and weekly market there, with divers other liberties, privileges, and advantages granted by letters patent of his Majesty's predecessors, which said manor and lands were anciently possessions of the Abbot of Waltham St. Cross, who held the same with divers privileges in relation to the said forest, all which the petitioner ought to enjoy as amply as the abbot did; nevertheless, he being called in question for the same by the Justice Seat for the said forest, is desirous to have his Majesty's confirmation and express grant for the same, with the addition of another fair and market there, and praying such confirmation and a grant of one new market and two fairs, and of all waifs, strays, felons' goods, and of felo de se, fugitives, persons outlawed or put in exigent, deodands and such-like casual profits happening within the said manor, with return and execution of writs there, and a pardon to the petitioner's father and himself of all assarts, purprestures, wastes, and trespasses, of or in the forest of Waltham, and liberty to hold such assarts and purprestures as are already made, and to cut timber or wood without licence or view of the forester, and to assart the premises. At foot,
Jan. 29.
Whitehall.
Reference thereof to the Attorney-General for the issuing a writ of Ad quod damnum, on return whereof his Majesty will give order for gratifying the petitioner.
March 13. Certificate by Sir Heneage Finch, A. G., that the writ has been issued, and it is found that the King may, without damage to himself or any of his subjects, grant the fairs and market desired. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 139.] Annexed,
March 18. Grant, confirmation, and pardon to the said Thomas Grey as prayed. [Ibid. No. 140, and S.P. Dom., Entry Book 34, f. 74.]
Docquet thereof, dated March. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 37.]
Jan. 29. The said reference. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 33, p. 144.]
Jan. 29.
Foresight, Downs.
Capt. John Hayward to the Navy Commissioners. The provisions came in very good time, as we had no flesh on board that the men could eat, or any bread but what we bought at Deal. Capt. Elliot has arrived with one ship, having parted from the rest of his convoy in a storm in the soundings, but they are coming in. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 82.]
Jan. 29.
Welcome, Hope.
Capt. John Willgress to the Navy Commissioners. Concerning the payment of the bills and tickets belonging to his men, of which he has taken an account, and also as to what ships they have served in, &c., and sending the particulars. [Ibid. No. 83.] Enclosed,
Jan. 29.
Welcome, Hope.
Account by the same of tickets belonging to seven seamen named, specifying the ships they have served in, for how long, and the amount of wages due to each. With a note to Thos. Hayter that he has two more tickets in his hands of the value of 20l., and desires to know whether he can get them paid. [Ibid. No. 84.]
[Jan. ?] John Bindlos of London to the King. Petition, praying him to accept the surrender on his behalf of the office of bailiff of Rye by Phineas Cheston, whom he has served faithfully as deputy, and to grant him the place. Noted, "Sir John Robinson." [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 141.]
[Before Jan. 30.] Warrant for a grant to the said Bindlos of the said place. Dated in the 22nd year of our reign. [Draft. Ibid. No. 142.]
[Before Jan. 30.] Certificate by the Earl of Oxford, Lord Chief Justice in Eyre, of two licences to John Heyes, of Woodford in Essex, to fell out of Knighton Wood as much firewood as he shall require for his own house. Dated January in the 22nd year of the reign of King Charles. [Two drafts. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, Nos. 143, 144.]
Jan. 24–30. News-letter. [News identical with that in news-letters already calendared.] [4 pages. Ibid. No. 145.]
Jan. 27–30. News-letter. [The only news not in Fleming Calendar, p. 75, is:]
Letters from Marseilles say that Sir Edward Spragg has lately taken an Algiers man-of-war of 36 guns, after a long and stout chase.
His Majesty, the 22nd instant, at the request of the Prince of Orange, conferred the honour of knighthood on Sir John Can, son to the Balive (?) of Flushing, commander of Isingdale. It is said the inhabitants of Bordeaux have mutinied and taken up arms on the publication of the late edict forbidding their trade with the Dutch, alleging that they cannot live if it be put in execution, their only trade coming thence. The House are on Monday to meet, and in a most solemn manner keep the day of humiliation for the martyrdom of King Charles I. of ever-blessed memory. The Lords have yet come to no determination nor done much in the Bill they intend to bring in about the Duke of Ormonde's assault, and for preventing the like for the future. [4 pages. Ibid. No. 146.]
Jan. 30.
Greenwich.
Thos. Jaggard to Thos. Hayter. Asking him to inform the Navy Commissioners that he is prevented from attending them on Tuesday through illness. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 85.]
[Jan. 30.]/Feb. 9.
Leghorn.
Sir Thomas Clutterbuck to the Navy Commissioners. I send copy of my letter of the 6th, forwarded by the Lyons ordinary, and ask your Honours' serious consideration of it; also the indent of the purser of the Centurion for a month's provision, for which I desire to have credit in my newest account, beginning with the Jersey and ending with the Swallow, a copy of which was already forwarded. I have passed my bills upon you for 151l. 17s. 6d. payable two months after date to Signor Micheale Bichiraia or order, and recommend due satisfaction of it, having found it difficult to exchange that small sum, the merchants on this place having such a bad opinion of the public credit. Your Honours will find that I have a considerable sum in disburse upon this account, and I have a good quantity of all sorts of provisions lying ready for such ships as may call at Leghorn; and as all things are bought with the ready penny, and I cannot exchange a penny, you may easily imagine that I am exceedingly straitened. I ask you to tell Sir John Frederick and other eminent merchants who trade for this place, that they may depend upon a due compliance with such bills as I shall pass upon you, so that they may be prevailed with to write to their factors here to be more kind to me, which will very much tend to the furtherance of the service. Noted that Purser Ridgeway's indent, and Sir Denis Gauden's account for 8,820l. 16s. 1d., which were enclosed, were given to Sir Jeremy Smith on 28 March. [5 pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 86.] Annexed,
[Jan. 27.]/Feb. 6.
Leghorn.
Capt. Geo. Bowen, commander of the Centurion, to Sir Thos. Clutterbuck. Having received commands to proceed for the eastward, for the security of several merchant ships designed thither, and then with their ladings intending homeward, as it may cause me to spend considerable time in those parts, whereby I will be necessitated, on my way home, to stop at Leghorn for a supply, I desire you will get ready by 20 March a full allowance of sea provisions for four months for 205 men; and on putting the same on board, that you will take the purser's indents for the same. [Ibid. No. 87.]
Jan. 31.
London.
Sir Richard Ford, Lord Mayor, to Williamson. The petition and state of the case I lately delivered from the city to Lord Arlington will sufficiently inform you of the reasonableness of the prayer thereof about the water balerdge (bailage) for a noli prosequi, especially if it be considered that the Swedes' agent, at whose instance the Quo warranto was obtained, owned to my lord his desire that no further prosecution may be made upon it. Yet, by the city's order, I only moved his lordship that the petition might be referred to the Lord Keeper and judges, either to do therein as they should think fit or to report to his Majesty, and that in the meantime there might be an arrest of judgment. I pray you be instrumental that by his lordship's motion to his Majesty such a reference be made. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 147.]
Jan. 31.
Portsmouth.
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. These parts afford nothing of news. [Ibid. No. 148.]
Jan. 31.
Plymouth.
James Blackborne to James Hickes. A fair wind at N.E. has caused Sir William Jennens, the Falcon, Captain Werden, and above 80 sail, with their convoys, to sail out of our harbour. The wind came fair but this morning. [Ibid. No. 149.]
Jan. 31.
Deal.
Richard Watts to Williamson. Sunday last a boat with four Deal men, and yesterday one with two, were overset in the Downs Both boats were saved, one of the men in the last drowned. It blew a very stiff gale all last night, and still increases. Two small ships were foul of each other this afternoon. Since, a great ship has broken her boltsprit, and also broke loose and is gone to sea westward; some believe her to be one of our East Indiamen, others that she is bound for Lisbon and Brazil. If the wind continues so high most of the ships will break loose, or ride out their bows before morning. [Ibid. No. 150.]
Jan. 31. G[ulielmus Fuller], Bishop of Lincoln, to Williamson. In many places of Lincolnshire, particularly at Stamford, where there was 22l. collected for the captives, the collections were given back to the contributors on a mistake of a caution in an advertisement in your Gazette against a counterfeit brief, notwithstanding you rectified it in another Gazette. But men were willing to have their money again in their purse, and therefore took no notice of the second advertisement. I have since received divers complaints from ministers well affected, that some malicious busy knaves have spread a rumour all about Lincolnshire, which has crept into other parts of my diocese, that the brief is a cheat, the money pretended for the redemption of captives is to be otherwise employed, which has generally discouraged the people from giving anything at all. That some may be made examples, I have writ to the minister that informed me for a sufficient proof by oath of credible witnesses, which I shall put into my lord of Canterbury's hand, who will bring it to the Council Board. In the meantime I entreat thee to put one more advertisement into the next Gazette to undeceive the people, and let them know they are not to give credit to those false, malicious rumours. The enclosed is to the Archbishop of Tuam's son, lately gone to Paris, but where or how to direct it I know not. As you have such good correspondents there, will you cause this Mr. Parker to be found out and my letter delivered to him as soon as may be? [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 151.]
Jan. 31. Warrant for a grant to John Byndlos of the office of bailiff of the town of Rye, on the surrender of Phineas Cheston. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 25, f. 190.]
Jan. 31. Warrant continuing the pay of Thomas Howard, ensign in the Guards, and his servant, for another year, for which he is allowed to remain abroad. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 29, p. 51.]
Jan. 31. Warrant continuing the pay of Charles Bertie, captain in the Guards, and his servant, for the time he may be away as Envoy to the King of Denmark. [Ibid. p. 52.]
Jan. 31. Warrant to the Exchequer to pay to Lieutenant Charles Serres 100l. per annum out of the unpaid part of the Queen's portion, to begin from Michaelmas last. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 7.]
Jan. 31. Warrant to the Master of the Great Wardrobe for payment to Dr. Wren, Surveyor-General of his Majesty's Works, of 12l. 15s. 10d. for his livery due at All Saints last, and also for the allowance of several parcels for his livery at All Saints in every year during his life. [Ibid. No. 8.]
Jan. 31.
Portsmouth.
Wm. Griffen, master of the Marigold hoy, to Commissioner Thos. Middleton. I was blamed for staying, but when the Captain of Cowes Castle, who was Sir Robert Holmes' deputy, heard the order was for ten days he sent to Sir Robert in London, who told him to keep me until the hoy was done with. I was told by Sir Robert's men that if I came away it would be as much as my life was worth, and that I would be hanged. I made five voyages in eight weeks, which was as much as I could do, considering the winter and bad weather, by which I got a fit of sickness, from which I have not yet recovered. I beg your Honours will do what you can to get my expenses allowed, as I was at great charge. I have spoken to Commissioner Tippetts, who has promised to do what he can for me when he comes to London. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 88.]
Jan. 31. Wm. Griffen to —. To the same effect. [Ibid. No. 89.]
Jan. 31.
Portsmouth.
Contract by Benjamin Newland, of East Cowes, merchant, with Commissioner John Tippetts, to deliver into the stores at Portsmouth a quantity of yellow deals at 4l. 15s. 0d. to 9l. for each 500, according to size. [Ibid. No. 90.]
Jan. 31.
Chatham.
Commissioner John Cox to the Navy Commissioners. As to Mr. Harrington's demand of demurrage for his ship being detained at Chatham in unloading his plank, I was in London when it arrived 25 October, but at his request wrote for him to be furnished with a lighter to clear his ship of deals and staves that were over the planks, which was done; but on my return to Chatham on 1 November, as the master of her was in London, I sent for the boatswain and asked why they did not bring the plank ashore. They answered they would, but they would not sling the plank according to the custom of the place, and wanted the men of the yard to unload, but they ultimately slung the plank when it was hove up, about the middle of November. Two hoys of plank from Woodbridge, which had lain twelve or fourteen days, were brought to the crane and delivered, and when there was not a stage of plank ready a boat with Mr. Mason's timber would get in, which, to keep the cranes going and give despatch, and please everybody, was taken up. The last plank from Mr. Harrington's ship was taken up 5 December. Bringing the timber on shore on stages was tedious and not so quick as is done at Deptford, but there they have the convenience of a wet dock; but the delay was not more than about fourteen days, although the ship was there over thirty, but the men were several days before they began at all. I sent to the master shipwright for an account of the new masts set up in the Newcastle, but he could not give any, although it is, or ought to be, his duty to order what masts should be made for his Majesty's ships, and to see them before they begin to work them; but he does not make that his business, and as good as told me so, and referred me to the mastmaker. I sent for the latter, who wrought under Wm. Pett, formerly mastmaker, when the mainmast was made, who told me it was of a New England tree, and Bronsdon, the late mastmaker, says the other masts and the yards were made of Gottenburg masts. I do not know what Ruffhead the smith intends, but as all the men were like to stand still for want of bolts, I sent to him about them, when he complained of the want of money to buy iron. Had not some old bolts better be weighed out to him to be re-wrought and an allowance made to him for the working of them according to custom ? [2¼ pages. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 91.]
Jan 31.
Dublin.
Robert Leigh to Williamson. The four last packets came yesterday, but the other four being on board a packet-boat that left Holyhead on the 16th, are supposed to be lost, nothing being heard of her since. Let me know what to do about the fees on Colonel Dillon's and the pursuivants' letters. The enclosed about the Bishop of Raphoe has lain here three-quarters of a year. Now none is like to take it out or pay the fees, the Bishop of Clogher, whose place is disposed of, being long since recovered, and resolved to keep his bishopric to himself; therefore pray discharge me of the fees of this letter. I beseech you not to forget my brother Barnwall's petition, whereof a new copy is enclosed, which has now lain a long time. [S.P. Ireland, Car. II. 346, No. 14.]
[Jan. ?] Reasons to prove that the late vote (passed 6 December 1670, see Commons' Journals IX. 177) in Parliament for 10s. to be paid to the King for every deed enrolled in Chancery, and 2s. 6d. for every recognisance, will almost prevent enrolment of deeds; conveyances will then be made by lease and release, as the present fees, being only 10s., will thereby be doubled; while of recognisances only about 100 a year are enrolled, and the fee is now 6s. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 152.]
[Jan. ?] Petition of Katherine, wife of Rich. Halliwell, tobacco cutter, to the Lord Arlington for release for herself and maid from the custody of a messenger, to which they were committed, having been apprehended about three weeks ago, on suspicion that her husband is connected with the horrid attempt against the Duke of Ormonde. She hopes that he is innocent, and absents himself only from fear of prison, having endured much in that kind in respect of his religion. [Ibid. No. 153.]
[Jan. ?] Petition of Stephen and Charles West to Lord Arlington for relief. They were committed to the Gatehouse on suspicion of having a hand in the business of the Duke of Ormonde, but acquitted; yet are detained by Lady Broughton, because they cannot pay the double fees which she demands. [Ibid. No. 154.]
[Jan. ?] First petition of Lewis Sulpice Jonquier and Martin Carbonell, Frenchmen, now prisoners in Newgate, to the King, for reprieve till next sessions, and that they may be tried by a jury half French and half English, according to the custom of England; having been condemned to death, one for stealing lace and the other for taking a sword, by a jury of seven English, four Walloons, and one Frenchman, and the interpreter being an Englishman who did not well understand French, nor the petitioners understand him. [Ibid. No. 155.]
[Jan. ?] Second petition of Jonquieres and Carbonnel to the King, to respite the execution of their sentence till next term, it being contrary to English law, because five Walloons were put on the jury in place of five Frenchmen. [French. Ibid. No. 156.]
[Jan. ?] Third petition of Lewis Sulpice Jonquieres and Martin le Carbonel to the King, to be put into the general pardon for the next sessions, or ordered for the plantations, with proviso of recall if their innocence be cleared. Their sentence on an accusation of robbery was stayed, according to their former petition, because they had not a jury half French; and their accusers, who are doubtless the guilty parties, have fled into France, and are to be apprehended at request of the French ambassador. [Ibid. No. 157.]
[Jan. ?] Fourth petition of the same to the same, for change of their sentence to transportation to Virginia, or service in the galleys. They were accused of theft, but there was fault in the choice of the jury; one of the jurymen says he did not concur in the verdict, another that he gave his voice by constraint, and that his conscience reproaches him for the death of the accused, and others that they hardly knew what was the accusation. The woman who accused them to free herself fled, and is arrested, but the Lord Mayor says a second trial cannot be granted; recourse must be had to the King's mercy. [French. Ibid. No. 158.]
[Jan. ?] Fifth similar petition to the same effect. [French. S.P. Dom., Car. II. 287, No. 159.]
[Jan. ?] Thomas Hunton, yeoman of the wardrobe at Ludlow Castle, to Lord Arlington. Petition, praying a speedy reference to the judges of the petition of himself and others of 17 June 1670, in answer to the Earl of Carbery's reply to their former one, claiming a right to diet or board wages, which reply does not deny the right, but only the source whence it is payable, having attended in person half a year to hear the petition read. [Ibid. No. 160.]
[Jan. ?] List of the effects left at Antwerp by the Portuguese Ambassador, Dom Francisco de Mello, which arrived four days ago by the vessel of Daniel Griex. Among them are two boxes of silk artificial flowers, made by nuns, one of which is for the Duchess of York. [French. Ibid. No. 161.]
Jan. Grant to Viscount Grandison and Henry Brounker of Nonsuch House, in Surrey, and the Little and Great Park there, and of the Great Park meadow and Worcester House, and the franchise of freebord and ringwalk without the pales of the said parks, and of the rent of 100l. per annum reserved for the Great Park in fee simple at the yearly rent of 10s., with liberty to dispark and reimpark the same. [Docquets, Vol. 25, No. 9.]
Jan. Grant to Cornelius Manley of the office of constable of Harlech Castle, and of the land called the Castle Yard and Castle Green, with the fee of 50l. per annum; and also of a weekly market and yearly fair there. [Ibid.]
Jan. Licence to the Earl of Leicester to build on Leicester field and the Bowling Green, with pardon for what is already thereon, and certain restrictive provisoes. [Ibid. No. 10.]
Jan. Warrant to the Exchequer to pay to Baptista May 28,000l. for the Privy Purse. [Ibid. No. 11.]
Jan. Col. B. Reymes to Thos. Hayter. Asking for the return of his contract left to be signed by the Navy Commissioners, and that he will inquire of Mr. Shales what has been done with his last bill for 826l. 7s. 0d., which he gave to Mr. Littleton to be split; who otherwise could not pay him the 300l. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 296, No. 92.]
Jan. Honor Coffin, widow of — Coffin, purser, to Viscount Brouncker. Asking him to look on her misery, and saying that she is charged concerning double tickets, and has been here almost three years; and if she could get free of her security, and get her husband's accounts passed, she would willingly go to her home, from which she is eight score miles away. [Ibid. No. 93.]