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| April 2. |
Order in Parliament—upon the report of Mr. Speaker that the
French ambassador had been with him to take his leave, having
been called home,—that the matter be referred to the Council of
State. [I. 87, p. 39.] |
| April 3. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
4. The ship with corn taken upon the Irish coast to be sent to
Dublin for the forces there, assurance being first given to the officers
and mariners who took it, that they shall be satisfied for their shares
therein. |
|
5. The committee for Irish affairs to take care that the before
mentioned assurance is given the mariners. |
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6. Col. Tothill to offer the same test which he has taken to
every private soldier of his regiment which he ships for Ireland. |
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7. To write to Col. Jones that men and provisions shall be
speedily sent, to enable him to defend himself until the main body
of the army comes over. |
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8. Col. Reynolds to join his regiment, and take them to the
water side for transportation to Ireland, for strengthening Col. Jones. |
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9. The same directions to be given to Col. Reynolds as to purging
his regiment as have been given to Col. Tothill. |
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10. Colonels Moore and Hungerford's propositions concerning the
recruiting of their regiments referred to the committee for Ireland. |
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11. Lieut.-Col. Farr to be recommended to the Lord General, for a
commission as colonel of the regiment of foot now in Sussex. |
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12. Lieut.-Col. Farr to join the regiment of foot lately under Sir
Mich. Livesey, and march them towards the water side for Ireland. |
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15. Belvoir Castle to be demolished, for safety of the commonwealth. |
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16. Mr. Martin to repair to the Earl of Rutland, and inform him
of this vote. |
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17. Sudeley Castle to be made untenable, and Sir Wm. Constable
and [lord] Chandos to see it done. |
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18. The petition of the two captains of Coventry, on behalf of
themselves and the soldiers, to be reported to the House. |
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19. Alderman Wilson to make the report formerly ordered, concerning the Sta. Clara. |
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20. Messrs. Martin and Scott to be a committee to examine a
man found with a letter discovering the desires of Col. [Charles ?]
Stuart's councillors in Holland, for raising money in London for
Stuart's use. |
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21. Col. Lowe to be apprehended and examined why he is in town. |
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22. The letter from Barnstaple of 3 March to be sent to the
generals at sea. |
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23. Major Clayton's petition referred to the committee for Ireland. |
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24. Capt. Hunt's referred to the same. |
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25. The committee for examining the abuses in the Charter House
to make a report. |
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26. Gregory Kemp, Thos. Reynolds, and Rich. Clifton to be
committed to the Gatehouse, for corresponding with the enemy. |
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27. The other man of their company not yet examined to be
examined to-morrow by the Admiralty committee. |
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28. Thanks to be given to the persons who apprehended them,
for their good affections. |
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29. The appointment of Dr. De Boate, as doctor to the hospital at
Dublin, referred to Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell. |
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30. The ordnance officers to consider how the carriages mentioned
by Sir Hardress Waller can be made serviceable for the guns at
Pendennis castle. |
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31. Sir Oliver Fleming to attend to-morrow, as to sending to the
French ambassador before his departure out of England. |
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32. Lord Grey, Col. Ludlow, Col. Martin, and Sir Jas. Harrington
to be a committee to consider the propositions given in by the
serjeant. |
|
33. A general summons to be sent to all the members of the
Council to attend to-morrow afternoon. [I. 62, pp. 141—6.] |
| April 3. |
35. Instructions to Rich. Aldworth, Luke Hodges, Joseph Jackson,
and Hugh Browne, Esquires, and to Col. Robert Berry, Capt. Robt.
Bishop, and Rich. Jones ironmaster [gentleman of Bristol], for preservation of the wood and timber in Dean Forest; not to allow
any timber to be cut without special license from the Council or
Revenue Committee, and where wood is cut for the ironworks, the
copses to be preserved; all opposers to be reported. [I. 62, p.
147.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
39. Order in the Council of State that the Navy Commissioners
consider a paper sent by the admirals of the fleet, and provide the
number of men at the places therein expressed. [½ page.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Lieut.-Col. Venables. As you are willing and
have the means of raising a regiment of foot for the service of
Ireland, which needs present supplies until the body of forces
appointed to go thither can be dispatched, we desire you to
endeavour to complete a regiment, and you shall have such encouragement as others that are taken on for that service. [I. 94,
p. 62.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Sheriffs of Counties. By the enclosed
declaration of the House, you will see their sense of the libel or
pamphlet therein mentioned; that people may not be corrupted
and drawn from their duty by it, but be preserved from guilt, rather
than brought to punishment for it, you are to take care that the
printed declarations sent herewith are publicly proclaimed in the
market towns within your county, as well within the liberties as
without, upon market day, and then affixed in the usual and most
public places, so that none may pretend ignorance therein, it being
a thing of great consequence to the peace and safety of the nation.
[I. 94, p. 63.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Lord General. It is of great consequence
to the commonwealth that Dover Castle should be safe against
attempts of the enemy; upon conference with the Governor, we
thought that three companies of foot should be appointed, for the
garrison there, at Sandgate Castle, and Artcliffe Fort. Let the
company of foot now under Capt. Swan, and lately marched out of
Kent, return to Dover Castle, as one of the three, the foot formerly under command of Capt. Bethell, be put under Capt. Swan,
and Capt. Swan's company given to Col. Sydney, Governor of Dover
Castle. [I. 94, p. 64.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Tothill. Several counties by which your
regiment marched complain of the great insolencies and disaffection
of many of your soldiers, who openly profess to have served the
enemy, and say they will do so again when there shall be occasion.
Take care that none so affected may be transported; and for the
better discovery of them, offer the same test to the officers and
soldiers of your regiment which was taken by yourself, disbanding
such as refuse it. [I. 94, p. 65.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Reynolds. Some horse are wanted with
expedition for Dublin, to strengthen the forces with Col. Jones, until
the body of the forces be ready; a contract having been made by
you with the Committee of Derby House, to transport a regiment of
horse, we require you to march forthwith to Liverpool, to be transported to Ireland. As however many of that regiment have committed many insolencies, and manifested disaffection, we desire you
to discharge all such; for their better discovery, offer them the test
enclosed, and discharge such as shall not take it. [I. 94, p. 66.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Committee of Kent. The regiment of Sir
Michael Livesey, raised in your county in the late troubles, have
now marched to Sussex, being kept undisbanded for that service of
Ireland. To enable them to march to that service, we desire they
may receive the same sum for their marching that you were to have
given them for disbanding, and we have ordered them to return to
your county to receive the money, so that thereupon they may either
march away to the water side, or be disbanded. [I. 94, p. 67.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Sheriffs of Counties. Although God has
so manifestly owned the cause, asserted and maintained by Parliament, of the people's just freedom, and has twice, in two several
wars, broken all the enemies' forces, and determined the cause against
them, and brought the principal authors of our troubles to just and
public punishment; yet such is the malignity of many men's spirits,
and so far are they degenerated from true Englishmen or good
patriots, that they cease not to contrive how they may again interrupt our peace, and embroil this nation in a new war, the misery
whereof cannot but be apprehended with a very quick sense, from
the fresh remembrance of what is but lately past; and it will be a
sufficient motive to all that love liberty and peace, to put forth their
utmost endeavours to preserve the peace of the nation. |
|
Many of these men, in divers places of the kingdom, have meetings
for consultations at horse races, fairs, &c., under pretence of recreations,
where their designs are laid, and their mischief prepared for a
sudden breaking out. Knowing that last year's wars, and the insurrections in several counties had in great part their birth by such
meetings, we recommend the case to you, and desire you to have a
watchful eye upon such meetings, and take special care that nothing
be there done to promote such designs. If your own force is not
able to suppress such unlawful meetings, you are to call in any
forces in pay of the Parliament that shall be in your county. [I. 94,
p. 69.] |
April 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the several governors of garrisons, to the governors of Oxford and Wallingford, Captains Butler and Starke, and to
Col. Geo. Twistleton, Hugh Price, Carter, Thos. Mason, and Thos.
Mytton. To similar effect. Also we have written to all the sheriffs
of England and Wales recommending the preservation of the peace of
their several counties; but not knowing how far their power may
suffice, we desire you also to have a watchful eye upon all such
meetings and conflux of disaffected persons, and to take care to
break them up, and let nothing be done that may tend to the prejudice of the commonwealth. If the sheriff desire forces from you,
you are to give him assistance. [I. 94, p. 69.] |
April. 3.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Ordnance Officers. Sir Hardress Waller
tells us that there are near 100 guns at Pendennis Castle, but the
carriages of most of them decayed, for supply whereof he wants
timber out of the Forest of Dean; but there is there little or no elm,
which is the most proper wood for that work, and besides the timber
there ought to be preserved. We therefore desire you to consider
how the said carriages may be best supplied. [I. 94, p. 73.] |
| April 3. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order that the commissioners for the Navy and Customs report
upon what grounds they have removed John Short, clerk of the
check at Chatham. |
| April 3. |
Order to the Navy Commissioners to dock the Swiftsure at Deptford, as Andrew Burrell shall direct, according to the order of the
Council of State of 29 March last. [I. 123, pp. 28, 29, Vol. I.,
No. 40.] |
| April 3. |
41. Order by the Admiralty Committee that the Commissioners of
Customs issue letters of credit to their collectors at Scarborough, to
pay Capt. William Neishfield, commander of the Fairfield, 47l. 19s. 7d.
for the freight and hire of his ship, taking his bills of exchange for
the same on Sir Hen. Vane, jun., treasurer of the Navy. A like
order given in June last to Peter Needham failed of effect, because
Needham was forced away by the revolt of the governor of Scarborough, embarked with his books and papers for London in a ship
of Scarborough, which was cast away, and all were drowned; therefore the bills of exchange have not been returned, and Nesfield
deposes that none of the money was paid. [1 page.] |
| April 3. |
The Admiralty Committee to the collectors for prize goods. Capt.
Peacock having petitioned us on behalf of himself and the company of the Tiger, that, although they were in consort with Capt.
Willoughby in January 1647–8, at the taking of the Mary and
Joseph, and afterwards of the London, they have not received their
shares, we desire you to certify the reason thereof. [I. 123, p. 29.] |
| April 3. |
42. Admirals Robert Blake and Ri. Deane to the Navy Commissioners. Rich. Squire, Jonathan Pooke, and Jas. Pelsor of Lyme
have repaired thither at the desire of Col. Blake, to join the fleet,
and we have directed them to go on board the Triumph; you are to
issue them conduct money from Lyme to this place, and hence to
Chatham. [¾ page.] |
| April 4. |
Order in Parliament, referring to the Council of State the letter
of Edw. Robinvan from Preston. |
|
Also the proposition of Capt. Mildmay, touching the pictures and
statues. |
|
Also the petition of the well-affected inhabitants of Blackburn
Hundred. [I. 87, p. 39.] |
| April 4. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Mr. Frost to inform the Spanish ambassador that Mr. Hickman,
now called Lord Windsor, has lately gone to Flanders, upon a challenge sent him from an English gentleman named Griffith; and to
desire him to use his best endeavours for prevention. |
|
5. No petitions to be received unless signed by the parties to
whom they belong. |
|
6. The order concerning the prize corn taken at Plymouth suspended. |
|
7. Capt. Playford to bring Mr. Utie, and the papers he took with
him, to Derby House to-morrow. |
|
8. Mr. Ross to be dismissed, with a monition not to meddle more
with things of that nature. |
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9. The militia business to be taken first to-morrow. |
|
10. Mr. Scott's report concerning Ireland to be taken afterwards. |
|
11. Sir Jas. Harrington, Col. Ludlow, and Mr. Holland to be a
committee for considering Dr. Chamberlain's propositions. |
|
12. Mr. Foxley's proposition referred to the said committee. [I. 62,
pp. 148–150.] |
April 4.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Major-General Lambert. The forces of Lancashire are all disbanded, except the troop of Capt. Bamber, who
was of Col. Fleming's regiment. He gives out that he is to go for
Ireland, but he has no commission for it. We therefore desire you
to disband the men, that they be no further burden to the country.
When the troop was raised by the said captain, the horses were said
to be taken from the country, without authority. If you upon the
place find it so, and see cause for it, order the horses to be restored
to those from whom they were taken. There is also a troop of
horse of Capt. Carter, who was lately in Lancashire, whither there
was an order sent to disband them, but they have marched into
Cheshire, where they now are; we have written to Col. Duckenfield to disband them there, but as we do not know whether he may
not move out of that county, we desire you to give order for their
disbanding. [I. 94, p. 72.] |
April 4.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. We require you
to take care for the rigging, victualling, and manning the St. Cleer,
the Galliot hoy, and Warspite, according to your report made to
the Admiralty Committee. [I. 123, p. 29.] |
| April 4. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Proposal by Cols. Deane and Blake to the Admiralty Committee,
that two months' provision for this summer's fleet be magazined at
Plymouth, Pembroke, Yarmouth, Portsmouth, and London, for 6,000
men. With reference thereon by the Council of State to the Navy
Commissioners. [I. 123, pp. 29, 30.] |
April 4.
Prize Office. |
Report of Thos. Smith and John Sparrow, Collectors for Prize
Goods to the Admiralty Committee, upon reference of Captain
Peacock's petition, for thirds of the Mary and Joseph, Mary of
Antrim, and the London, seized as prize. We find that the Mary
and Joseph is condemned to him, and his company alone, and not to
Capt. Willoughby, who was in consort with him; and though it
may be true that Capt. Willoughby ought to have been interested
in that prize, yet as the examinations upon which she was adjudged,
did not say anything to that purpose, she was condemned to Capt.
Peacock, for the judges cannot proceed otherwise than according to
the evidence before them, and it is the Captains' fault the examinations are not more full. Till Monday we had not the list to set out
the thirds; before we pay the same (which is a very small sum, the
vessel being a man-of-war of little value), tell us whether to pay
the thirds according to the sentence, to Capt. Peacock alone, or to
Capt. Willoughby, who is interested with him, but who makes no
pretence thereto. |
|
The Mary Antrim was taken on 14 Feb. as Capt. Peacock gives
in, and was wholly condemned to him, and has since been set out
at Plymouth as a man-of-war, her appraisement being 318l. The
mariners may complain of delay, but we, for their accommodation,
sent to Plymouth for an account of the charges laid out there, so
as to make up the account, and set out their thirds as soon as
ordered. |
|
As for the London, it is a mistake in Capt. Peacock to say she
is condemned, though her goods are; but whether Capt. Peacock and the mariners are interested in her taking is not in us
to determine, she being condemned wholly to Capt. Willoughby
and his mariners, for the reasons before expressed concerning the
Mary and Joseph. We think, however, that Capt. Peacock and his
mariners ought to have equal shares with Capt. Willoughby. It
only needed the giving timely advertisement upon oath of the parties
that seized her, but the goods being condemned, the sentence cannot
be altered unless the suit should begin anew. It is in your power,
when it is made apparent by Capt. Peacock and some of his company that he was at the taking, to order whether he should have
thirds; but we wonder he should demand thirds, when he knows
it is impossible they can be set out, the goods being but newly
landed, and not sold and the ship as yet not condemned. [I. 123
pp. 30–32.] |
April 4.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Ordnance Officers at the Tower. Over
and above the arms formerly allowed, you are to deliver on board
every first-rate ship going in the summer's fleet, 40 muskets or
snaphances; to every second-rate 30; third-rate and the new frigates
25; frigates of the fourth-rate 15; and those of the fifth and sixth
rate 10; with match, bullets, and bandoleers proportionable, the gunners indenting with you for the same as usual. [I. 123, p. 30.] |
April 4.
Westminster. |
43. Admirals Robt. Blake and Ri. Deane to the Navy Commissioners.
Enclosed is Capt. Moulton's account of the victuals required for the
Leopard; as you know the prejudice that will accrue if she should
be forced to come into port for want thereof, we desire that order
may be sent forthwith for supplying them at Plymouth or Falmouth.
The supernumeraries borne on her all the winter made her number
200. Although order was given five weeks since for graving the
Garland and Lyon, the work was only done last week, but Col.
Willoughby has satisfied us respecting the delay. [¾ page.] |
| April 5. |
Order in Parliament,—upon the report of Alderman Wilson from
the Council of State on the paper of the Spanish Ambassador
touching 50,000l. of the Spaniards, taken by the Parliament out of
the ship Sta. Clara,—that the Council of State consider the whole
business, and also the petition of Col. Manwaring and Huett Leute,
and hear the adventurers to the Isle of Providence, and all other
persons who make any claim to such money, and report. [I. 87,
p. 40.] |
| April 5. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Warrant to be issued to the Treasurer of Ireland to pay Sir
Hen. Tichborne 200l., as a reward for his services at Dunganhill;
also another for 300l. on account of 1,500l. laid out by him for the
service of the State; his accounts to be viewed and certified by
Mr. Beeke. The test is also to be subscribed by him, and he
dispatched away to his command. |
|
3. Provision of wheat and cheese for Ireland to be made, and the
Irish committee to dispatch some one to contract for them. |
|
4. Mr. Bostock to stay any person at the post-house who shall
call for letters directed to Edw. Browne. |
|
5. The Irish committee to appoint some fit person to take up ships
in Holland, for transportation of provisions and horses to Ireland. |
|
6. The Surveyor of Forts to view those in the Isle of Wight, and
certify thereon. |
|
7. The account of things wanting in the several castles and forts
in the Isle of Wight to be reported to the House. |
|
8. The petition of Edw. Burrowes, gunmaker, for leave to transport some small bird pieces to Barbary, granted. |
|
11. The petition of Mr. Harvey of Lyme referred to the Irish
committee. |
|
12. The general's letter concerning the employment of certain
persons at sea to be reported to the House. [I. 62, pp. 152–154.] |
April 5.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Army Committee. It is of great consequence that the northern garrisons should be supplied with all
things requisite for defence. The particulars contained in the enclosed are necessary, and we therefore desire you to cause those
provisions to be made, and delivered forthwith to persons appointed by Sir Arthur Hesilrigge, to receive and convey them to
the several places for which they are designed. [I. 94, p. 70.] |
| April 6. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Dr. Utie to be committed to the Gatehouse, for holding correspondence with enemies of the commonwealth beyond sea. |
|
2. Mr. Scott to report on the petition of Lady Carlisle to-morrow. |
|
3. Sir Arthur Heselrigge to attend to-morrow, with his report. |
|
4. Also Messrs. Estwicke and Thomson, and the other contractors
for Ireland. |
|
5. The consideration of all loose troops of horse not regimented,
referred to the Irish Committee and the Lord General. |
|
6. To report to the House that there is a great want of money
for the affairs of Ireland, and that some of their members ought to
be sent into the city, to procure an advance upon the credits now
prepared. |
|
8. The fortifications of Plymouth to be demolished, the soldiers
now there paid off, and the Lord General to put such forces into the
fort and island as he shall judge fit. |
|
9. Sir Arthur Hesilrigge to report to the House that 1,300l. is
wanted for payment of the garrison at Plymouth. [I. 62, pp. 156–
159.] |
April 6.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Lord Chandos. Order was given to make
Sudeley Castle untenable, but it still remains in condition dangerous to the commonwealth, if it should be surprised by any
disaffected persons. We desire you forthwith to take care that it
be put into such a condition that it may be neither a charge to the
commonwealth to keep it, nor danger to have it kept against them.
We have referred it to Sir Wm. Constable to see that it is sufficiently unfortified, and to appoint you a time in which it may be
done. [I. 94, p. 71.] |
April 6.
Derby House. |
Council of State to John Nowell, John Moore, and Hen. Hargrevey. Similar order for Clithero Castle. The powder, ammunition, and guns now there to be conveyed to Liverpool, and safely
laid up. [I. 94, p. 70.] |
| April 6. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order that Dr. Walker consider the late Act and ordinances
concerning men-of-war and other vessels trading with the enemy;
and where they do not agree, draw up an Act; also any amendments necessary in the late Act for encouragement of merchants
and seamen. [I. 123, p. 30.] |
April 6.
Westminster. |
44. Admirals Ri. Deane and Robt. Blake to the Navy Commissioners. You having contracted for the Rebecca ketch to serve the
fleet in this expedition, it is assigned by us to attend the Triumph
and other ships coming into Tilbury Hope, as soon as they are fitted
to go to sea; we desire order for her speedy victualling for 16 men for
three months, the captain affirming that he cannot stow a greater
proportion. For better enabling her to do service, we have added
five supernumeraries, making her present number as before.
[¾ page.] |
April 6.
Westminster. |
45. Admirals Ri. Deane and Robt. Blake to the Navy Commissioners. The Council of State having ordered the fitting out of the
Saint Cleer, Warspite frigate, and Galliot hoy, in lieu of merchant
ships, we have appointed Samuel Howett to the St. Cleer, William
Wheatley to the Warspite, and Rich. Pittocke to the Galliot hoy.
As their being at sea is of importance, we warrant your desire forthwith to the master shipwright, for the carpenter's work to be done
upon them; as also for the stores and victuals. We have authorised the officers to go on board, for the better hastening of them
out. There is some mistake about the St. Cleer; you offer her as a
vessel fit to carry 16 guns, when such is not the case. Pray certify
what ship you mean. [1 page.] |
| April 7. |
46. Act for raising 90,000l. out of 120,000l. required a month for
maintenance of forces raised by authority of Parliament for the service of England and Ireland, for six months from 25 Mar. to 29 Sept.
1649; ordering the levy of sums specified upon the several counties
and towns, and appointing county and town commissioners therefor;
the proportions for the last three months slightly differing from
those for the first three. [Printed, 57 pages.] |
| April 7. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Mr. Estwicke and the other Irish contractors to attend next
Monday. |
|
2. The Navy Commissioners to provide a small man-of-war for
defence of the coast about Rye, as they have suffered much
prejudice about there for want of one. [Also Vol. I., No. 47.] |
|
3. Messrs. Martin, Scott, Walton, and Lord Grey to be a committee for providing saltpetre, without making it at home. |
|
4. The militia business to be considered next Monday. |
|
5. The petition of Lieut.-Col. Owen O'Connelly to be reported
to the House. |
|
6. The case of the prisoners in the Tower to be considered next
Monday. |
|
8. Lady Rutland to have time until next post to acquaint the
Earl of Rutland with the Council's order concerning the demolition of Belvoir Castle. [I. 62, pp. 100, 101.] |
April 7.
Derby House. |
Order by the Council of State to the Admiralty judges, to issue
a commission for appraisement of the goods taken by the Antrim
frigate, while in the service of the Parliament, from seven barks
bound from Munster to Bristol, and belonging to Rich. Vickris,
Hugh Browne, Joseph Jackson, and other merchants of Bristol; and
upon security given by the owners to pay treble the value of the
goods so appraised, in case of condemnation, to stand by the judgments of the Admiralty Court, and to pay what the goods and
vessels are appraised at, or such salvage as the court shall set,—to
order the collectors for prize goods at Bristol and Milford to deliver
back such vessels and goods to the merchants aforesaid. [I. 123,
p. 32.] |
April 7.
Derby House. |
Order by the Council of State for Capt. Peacock and his
company to receive their thirds from the capture of the Mary
Antrim, now called the Tiger's Whelp, employed in the service of
the State, which was condemned as prize, appraised at 316l., and
reported upon by the collectors for prize goods to the Admiralty
Committee. [I. 123, p. 33.] |
April 7.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Committee of Kent. You know how
much the interest of the commonwealth of your county is concerned
that the castle of Dover, and the forts belonging to it, should be in a
safe posture. We have taken care for a sufficient garrison to be
placed there, of three companies, and we desire them to be paid out
of the sequestrations of your county, until further order is taken;
also that a minister, surgeon, commissary of the stores, and sufficient
number of gunners be appointed for that garrison; both pay and
provision of fire and candle to be made out of the same sequestrations. Also the governor of the castle, Col. Sydney, is to be paid
the same entertainment formerly paid to the governors of the castle.
[I. 94, p. 74.] |
April 7.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Capt. Robert Bishop. Cornet Pinke and
other suspicious persons are lately come to Bristol, to be transported
into Ireland, and have contracted with the master of a ship bound
for New England, to be landed in Munster, for which they are to
pay 10l. a man. Their ordinary discourse is nothing but bitter
invectives against Parliament, and the manner of their living so
extremely riotous that there is just ground of suspicion that they go
thither to join a disaffected party, but fly from hence to avoid
inquiry about a robbery lately committed in London, in which a
great sum of money and many precious goods were taken from
Mons. Le Mot. We therefore desire you to apprehend Pinke and his
assistants, seize his and their horses and arms, and search them, and
all trunks, boxes, &c. belonging to them, for money, rings, jewels,
letters, and papers, and secure them and their persons until further
orders. You are also to examine the master of the ship in which
they were going, and if he refuses to give any account concerning
them, to stay his ship until he does so. As they intend going away
next week, you must use expedition. [I. 94, p. 75.] |
| April 9. |
48. "Act prescribing certain times to delinquents for perfecting
their compositions effectually, under several penalties." [Printed,
11½ pages.] |
| April 9. |
Council Of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Mr. Frost to pay Mr. Simmons for cutting the seals. |
|
3. Mr. Arthur's letter from Weymouth to be sent to the generals
at sea. |
|
4. Also that of John Tooker, collector of customs at Barnstaple. |
|
7. Sir Hardress Waller to quarter some horse upon the Severn
shore in Devon and Cornwall, to protect them from Irish rebels, and
specially to take care of Appledore. |
|
8. Wm. Fry's letter to Mr. Hill to be sent to the generals. |
|
10, 11. The complaint against Mr. Porter for using seditious words
to be reported to the House by Col. Walton, and he to be kept
in safe custody at the Gatehouse, until order of Parliament. |
|
12. The Earl of Northumberland's letter concerning the Duke of
Gloucester to be reported to the House by Lord Lisle. |
|
13. The case of the ship Sta. Clara to be heard Wednesday week. |
|
15. The French ambassador to be furnished with a convoy if he
desire it. |
|
16. Mr. Prideaux to attend to-morrow, about Col. Welden and the
town of Plymouth. |
|
17. Proposition to be made to the contractors for Ireland;—viz.,
to furnish for the corn already brought into the Thames to be sent
to Ireland, 5,000l., whereof 1,000l. to be paid to-morrow, another
1,000l. on Thursday, another 1,000l. on Saturday, and 2,000l. this
day week; to be repaid out of the remainder of the 120,000l. after
the former contract is satisfied, for repayment of which a warrant will
be issued. The Council conceives this cannot prejudice them, as
their whole sum for goods sent away is already reimbursed, and they
are now receiving their money and interest. The service being of
great concernment, it is desired that this proposition is complied
with, otherwise Mr. Estwick will be expected to give his reasons for
putting so much disreputation upon the ordinance for that 120,000l.,
as to say that 1,000l. could not be had upon it. [I. 62, pp. 162–
166.] |
April 9.
Derby House. |
49. Warrant by the Council of State to the Navy Commissioners,
to keep Thos. Arkinstall on the ordinary as master of attendance,
although he is chosen master of the ship Triumph going as admiral,
it being the usual practice of the admiral, or commander-in-chief
of the fleet, upon going to sea, to choose an experienced master to
accompany him as master of his ship, and yet continue upon the
ordinary. [Also I. 123, p. 34.] |
| April 9. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order to the Trinity House to consider the petition of July Willis,
and report what is fit to be done for the preservation of the lights
at Dungeness, and for the relief of the petitioner. |
|
Order that the petition of Capt. Coppin of the Greyhound frigate
be referred to the Committee of the Navy, more particularly as of
late he has done good service to the State, in surprising the enemies'
men-of-war, and rescuing vessels; Parliament having empowered
them to give relief to such persons as suffered for deserting the
revolted fleet. [I. 123, p. 33.] |
| April 10. |
Order in Parliament, that the report be made from the Council of
State touching Lieut.-Col. Lilbourne, Mr. Walwin, and others tomorrow morning. [I. 87, p. 40.] |
| April 10. |
Council Of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Sir Wm. Armyne and Mr. Holland added to the committee
for Plymouth; to sit to-morrow, and confer with Col. Welden. |
|
3. The Navy Committee to consider the best way for better
securing pirates taken at sea. |
|
6. To write to Col. Monk to proceed with the trial of Lieut.-Col.
Owen O'Connelly, upon the evidence already obtained, as the council
cannot determine the matter without reporting it to the House,
where it may be very long, and there is great need of his service. |
|
7. Sir Hardress Waller to confer with Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell about
sending a person to Munster to do service there. |
|
8. Warrant to be issued to the Irish contractors to pay 100l. to
Lieut. Valentine Wood and others on account of arrears, but not to
publish it, lest it draw upon the State a greater payment than they
can make good. |
|
10. Capt. Thelwell to march with his troop to Chester for transportation, the time elapsed to be forgiven him, and he to go on now
as he should have done if there had been no interruption. |
|
11. Capt. Norwood to be entertained for a troop of horse, at the
rate of a month's pay and 12d. a day while they stay at the waterside, and transportation at the charge of the State. |
|
12. Major Mathias Westmoreland to have his quarters paid at the
water side for such men as he shall bring thither, and transportation
at the State's charge. |
|
13. Not to add any more money than already paid to Capt. Cleyton
for service done by him. |
|
14. The proposals from the Lord General and council of war concerning the service for Ireland to be reported to the House, with the
Council's confirmation thereof. |
|
16. The petition of Major Joseph Rigby referred to Lieut.-Gen.
Cromwell. |
|
18. The petitions of Messrs. Freeman, Powell, and Pain for messengers' places referred to the committee on attendants. |
|
19. The complaint against Mr. Porter to be sent to Justice Manly,
who is to take caution of him, and dismiss him. |
|
20. Recognizance to be taken by Mr. Manly from — Clifford,
alias Grasshopper, a waterman, for his future conduct, and the
papers about his imprisonment to be sent to Manly. |
|
21. Gregory Kemp and Thos. Reynolds, and the papers in the
matter, to be sent to Col. Blunt, justice of peace for Kent, who is to
take bail for their appearance next assizes. |
|
25. Mr. Scott to report to the House the propositions brought in
by the Army Committee. |
|
26, 27. Col. Jones to write to the committee of county Montgomery to secure the castle there, and report its state to the House.
[I. 62, pp. 167–171.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
28. Order—on the petition of Wm. Cann, Hugh Browne, Joseph
Jackson, and other merchants of Bristol, for restoration of their ship
and goods taken at sea by one of the King of Spain's ships;—that
Sir Oliver Fleming, master of the ceremonies, attend the Spanish
ambassador and represent the case, and desire him to write to the
King for the speedy release of the ship and goods, and that our
merchants may not be interrupted in their trade, or anything done
that may beget a misunderstanding, or hinder a good correspondence
between the nations, which the Council desire, by all ways of
justice and mutual friendship, inviolably to preserve. [I. 62, pp.
172, 173.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Mr. Whalley. The convoy for Col. Tothill's
regiment having now come into those parts, we desire expedition in
shipping the men for Dublin, that they may be there for safety
of the place, if the enemy should draw towards it before the rest
of our forces arrive. What arms are wanting shall be shipped from
hence by the next ship of wheat, which will go in a few days.
Tell us what numbers of ships and of what kinds are furnished there
[at Chester]. The burden your country is under, by these unwelcome
guests, is such that we need not say anything to quicken your care
to dispatch them away. [I. 94, p. 76.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Major-General Lambert. Morris and Blackborne, lately in Pontefract, are now in Lancaster Castle, being taken
prisoners thereabouts upon their flight. You are to send a strong
convoy thither to bring them to Pontefract, and proceed to a speedy
trial of them. [I. 94, p. 77.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Tothill. We take it well that you are
careful to cashier all the disaffected in your regiment, and doubt
not but you will be able to complete it without entertaining such
debauched people. The convoy being now come, you are not to
omit any opportunity of wind and weather for transportation. The
rest of your arms not fully supplied we shall send in a few days to
Dublin; if there should be occasion of action meantime, Col. Jones
will furnish you out of the stores there. On your arrival at Dublin,
you are to obey the orders of Col. Michael Jones, the Commanderin-Chief of the forces of Leinster. [I. 94, pp. 77, 78.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to — Alsop, Mayor of Plymouth. Many
prisoners lately taken at sea, and brought into Plymouth, have been
let go by you, though they might have been a means to procure the
better usage of ours with them, while we had some of theirs subject
to retaliation. As we conceive this a great disservice to the commonwealth, we desire to be informed from you upon what reasons
it was done, that if there were just reasons, we may be satisfied;
otherwise we desire that such as shall be brought in for the future
may be kept in safe custody, until delivered by a due course of proceedings, according to the laws of the sea, or by such other way as
Parliament shall appoint. [I. 94, pp. 78, 79.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Bailiffs and Justices of Ipswich. Thanks
for your letter of the 6th inst., concerning the dangerous and seditious words of Hen. Sherman, a surgeon of your town; insurrections and commotions usually begin, and are fermented by, seditious
language. His language is of a very high nature, but whether
spoken out of a habit of inveterate malice, or whether upon a
surprise of passion and engagement in argument, as it seems by
his answer, is a consideration which may mueh aggravate or extenuate his offence. You upon the place can better make inquiry
into the general course of his conversation than we; therefore, we
refer the whole matter to your consideration. [I. 94, pp. 79, 80.] |
April 10.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Mr. Whalley. We have ordered Capt. Lumley Thelwell to march with his troop to Chester, to be thence transported to Ireland; you are to muster the troop, and pay for their
quarters 12d. each man and horse, until wind and weather be
fit for their transportation. We enclose a copy of his articles of
agreement, but we are content to remit that which concerns the
time in which they should have gone, and they may now be sent
away the first opportunity. [I. 94, p. 80.] |
| April 10. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order that Barnard Smith, deputy collector to Mr. Bullock for
receiving the profits of the lights at Dungeness, peruse the enclosed
petition of July Willis, and satisfy her for his disbursements for
such lights, or certify why he cannot. [I. 123, p. 34.] |
| April 10. |
50. Petition of Capt. Samuel Chappell to the Navy Committee.
Was captain of the Providence, and at first, he and his 30 men
were victualled and paid at the usual rate; but afterwards Admiral
Rich. Swanley reduced his pay from 3s. 4d. to 2s. 6d. a day, to the
loss of 5l. His men were four months unpaid in 1645, loss 14l. 8s.,
and his victualling allowance reduced from 7d. to 6d. a day, loss
11l. 10s. 7d. Begs payment of the said sums. |
April 10.
Westminster. |
51. Admirals Robt. Blake and Rich. Deane to the Navy Commissioners. The Triumph having come into the Hope, and we intending to repair on board next Saturday, we desire you to speed away
the standards, jacks, grapnels and chains ordered for our ship and
the rest of the fleet, and indent for them with our gunner, who will
get the proper receipts. Col. Popham has added 10 men to the
Hector, the master having found out a trim whereby she sails much
better than heretofore, and we desire you to put victuals on board
for them; also for the Nicodemus, which has but three weeks'
victuals. [1 page.] |
| April 11. |
Order in Parliament that the pension of 200l. a year conferred
upon Col. Owen O'Connelly by Parliament, and the arrears thereof,
be paid out of the 50,000l. assigned to be paid out of delinquents'
estates for Ireland. |
|
That the committee concerning Irish affairs sitting in the Star
Chamber be required to see the order performed, and Mr. Scott
take special care thereof. |
| April 11. |
Order in Parliament that a sufficient number of ships be constantly
employed upon the Irish coast, at the command of the General of
the Land Forces in Ireland, and that the Council of State and the
Admirals at Sea see it performed. |
|
That the victualling the winter guard for Ireland be referred to
the Council of State, and the disposing of prizes taken on the Irish
coast be effected, by commissions or other ways, for advancing the
service, subject to an account to the Admiralty of England. |
|
That effectual provision be made for maimed soldiers during their
lives, and for the widows and orphans of those slain in the service,
and that one or more hospitals be prepared at Dublin or elsewhere,
for sick and lame soldiers. |
|
That the Council of State consider and present to the House the
most effectual way how provision may be made, according to the
last resolution. |
|
That a competent train of artillery, with arms both for horse and
foot, iron, ammunition, &c., be provided for that service. That they
consider of the said train of artillery and the particulars of it. |
|
That such backs, breasts, and pots as are wanting be provided
for every troop who shall be employed in the service, and transported to such place as the Commander-in-Chief shall direct. |
|
That they treat with the officers of the forces that are to go to
Ireland, upon what terms the arms, horse, and furniture may be
continued and maintained. |
|
That they confer with the officers as to sending over recruits of
horse and men, as occasion shall require. [I. 87, pp. 41, 42.] |
| April 11. |
Council Of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. The papers brought in by Mr. Scott to be sent to the Lord
General, who is to be informed that the parties therein mentioned
have been examined by Alderman Atkins, and are now confined in
the Counter in London. |
|
3. The committee which drew the Act for the militia to prepare
names of commissioners for the several counties, not naming above
21 for the largest county, and not under five for the least. |
|
4. The members of Council to give in to the militia committee
such names of persons as they think fit. |
|
5. The petition of Capt. Palmes and others, concerning the great
sufferings of some English soldiers in the French service, recommended to the French Ambassador. |
|
6. The pass for the French Ambassador's goods to be signed and
delivered, and Sir Oliver Fleming to inform him that this Council
has done all in their power; and that, as a pass for his horses can
only be granted by Parliament, he must address them for it. |
|
8. Mr. Holland to attend and take charge of the goods of the
late King, to be brought in by Sir John Hippesley, and direct where
they may be placed in the public wardrobes. |
|
9. A declaration to be drawn and brought in against such as
shall conceal any of the late King's goods. |
|
10. Mr. Ryder, saddler, near St. Clement's church in the Strand,
to attend to-morrow. |
|
11. Mr. Scott, and the rest of the committee appointed to examine
Lady Carlisle, to bring in their report next Friday. [I. 62, pp. 174–
176.] |
April 11.
Derby House. |
Order of the Council of State to redeliver to Mr. Cooper and
other owners of a Yarmouth crayer, lately rescued by Capt. Penn,
of the Assurance frigate, the crayer and the goods therein, upon
their paying an eighth part for salvage, which the late Act for the
encouragement of seamen allows the rescuers. [I. 123, p. 34.] |
April 11.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the sheriffs of cos. Cambridge and Huntingdon. There being 22 seamen marching towards London, as volunteers to serve for this summer's expedition in the Star frigate,
one of them was murdered upon or near to Newmarket Heath, a
pistol being fired upon him without provocation, by one on horseback, in the company of others, who said himself that he was an
Irishman. Some of the said company repaired to you, to send hue
and cry after him, that he might be taken and brought to justice,
but found no great readiness in you to send forth the hue and cry,
nor such fruit as we wish, in apprehending of the murderers. We
require you to cause diligent search to be made in all places of your
jurisdiction, for their apprehension, being much unsatisfied there
should be any omission in such a case, or the least contribution
to the escape of them who are guilty of murder, aggravated in the
perpetrators with so much malice to the cause of the commonwealth.
[I. 94, p. 81.] |
April 11.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Sir John Hippesley. There are several things
of value in your hands that belonged to the late King; you are to
bring them to Derby House to-morrow, and deliver them to Mr.
Frost, secretary to this Council, to be delivered over to such as the
Committee of the Revenue shall appoint. [I. 94, p. 83.] |
April 11.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Horton and Philip Jones. Being informed that there was 10,000l., part of the fine of South Wales,
ready, and that it would have been at Bristol before this, and there
being a most pressing necessity of immediately putting the fleet to
sea for this summer's service, and the ships being ready to go except
for money to put their provisions on board;—we recommended to the
House to borrow this money from that service to which it was first
appointed, to serve this present exigency, to be repaid by the moneys
designed for this service, but not yet ready. In pursuance thereof,
a wagon with convoy was sent to Bristol, by the treasurer of the
army, to bring up the money; but none of it has yet come to Bristol,
nor will until the 10th May, which is a very great disappointment.
We have appointed the wagon and convoy to continue at Bristol
until the money arrives, the charge of which must be borne by
those through whose fault the disappointment comes. We desire
you to use all possible diligence to get that money forthwith to
Bristol. [I. 94, p. 84.] |
| April 12. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Reference of the petition of Capt. Penn to the Navy Commissioners, to certify what may be done according to the ordinary way;
and if there is no ordinary way therein, to certify what has been
formerly done in such cases in an extraordinary way, by means of a
gratuity, or otherwise. [I. 123, p. 35; Vol. I., No. 50.] |
April 12.
Derby House. |
Admiralty Committee to the Navy Commissioners. The Council of
State, by their order of 29 March last, directed that five ships should
be built frigate fashion, and referred to us the drawing up of an
estimate of the charge, and the giving orders necessary. We have
therefore decided that the first,—a third rate, to be admiral for the
winter guard in the Irish sea, and to carry 44 pieces of ordnance,—
be built at Deptford, by Mr. Pett, senior; another of the same rate
by Christopher Pett, at Woolwich; other three of the rate of the
new frigate lately built, one by Mr. Pett, senior, at Deptford, one at
Portsmouth by Mr. Eastwood, and one at Woolwich, by Mr. Burrell.
We desire your order to the builders to present models of such
frigates, and to take care that provision for the building be made;
and you are to draw an estimate of the whole charge, and transmit
it to us for presentation to the Council of State. |
|
As it has also been referred to us to consider what order is fit
to be given for the disposal of the prisoners taken at sea by the
State's ships, and sent on shore by the generals of the fleet, we desire
you to certify us what has been usual in like cases heretofore, with
your opinion thereon. [I. 123, p. 35.] |
| April 13. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Power to be given to—to search for malignant persons
lying about Gravesend to gain passage to foreign parts, and seize
them, and their letters, papers, &c., which may be prejudicial to the
state. |
|
4. To write a letter to Sir Chas. Coote, concerning Lieut.-Col.
O'Connelly, similar to that to Col. Monk of the 11th inst., with the
desired alteration. |
|
7. The clauses for amendment of the Act for encouragement of
seamen to be reported, and the House informed that the generals
of the fleet are very unwilling to go to sea until these are inserted. |
|
8. Mr. Frost to ascertain to whom a letter can be written in
Turkey, as agent to the Grand Seignior, on behalf of the prisoners
at Algiers. |
|
9. The Committee who examined the Countess of Carlisle to send
in their report next Monday, those members present to take notice,
and the others to have notice sent. |
|
10. No order can be given for Dr. Williams to reside in Shrewsbury,
as requested by the governor there. |
|
11. Sir Hen. Mildmay to confer further with a gentleman who has
knowledge of a design against the commonwealth, put down the
evidence, and bring it to the Council. |
|
13. Col. Reynolds' letter concerning his regiment referred to the
Committee for Irish Affairs. |
|
14. Sir Oliver Fleming to perform what civilities he thinks fit to
the French Ambassador, now upon his return to France. |
|
15. Capt. Holden's dispatch concerning the taking of some ships
upon the Irish seas referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
16. To write to Mr. Strickland that Parliament will send Ambassadors to the States, with whom he may advise, they being fully
instructed in the points of his letter. |
|
17. The Committee appointed to bring in the instructions for the
Ambassadors to the States of the United Provinces to make their
report next Tuesday. |
|
18. The letter from the Governor of Weymouth to be sent to the
generals at sea, to take care to give convoy to the ships bound for
Newfoundland. [Also I. 123, p. 37.] |
|
19. To write to the governors of cos. Salop and Chester, as has
been done to Bristol, to arrest Cornet Pike. |
|
20. The Act prepared concerning prize goods to be reported to
the House by Col. Wauton. |
|
23. Notice to be sent to the Lord General to remove the soldiers
from Whitehall, so that the House may be prepared for the Council
of State, according to the order of Parliament. [I. 62, pp. 180184.] |
April 13.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Deputy Governor of Dover Castle. The
generals at sea write that 13 prisoners, taken by Capt. Coppin of
the Greyhound, were sent to you to be kept in safe custody, and
that you refused to receive them, whereby they have been set at
liberty without trial or other proceedings, which is a disservice to
the commonwealth. You are therefore to receive and examine
them, and certify their nature and quality, that order may be
taken to transmit them to London, to be proceeded against according to justice. Meantime we shall take order that while they
continue there, they shall be no charge to that garrison. [I. 94,
p. 85.] |
April 13.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. The French Ambassador is returning into France, and has asked the master of the
ceremonies for a ship. You are to order some fit ship to transport
him, his retinue, &c., into France. [I. 94, p. 86.] |
April 13.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Mayor of Bristol. Captain Fearmes, of
the President frigate, informs us of a great abuse to the master and
divers of the company of his ship, and therein an insufferable
affront to the authority of Parliament, by John Knight, of Bristol,
who calls them Parliament dogs, and Parliament rogues, &c., many
others approving those virulent speeches. Also that you refused to
take a bark into your custody, taken by Capt. Fearmes, and sent to
Bristol. The commonwealth cannot be preserved in peace if these
attempts upon its authority be suffered to pass unpunished. You
are therefore to call Knight before you, and examine into the
abuse, and see that he is punished as his offence deserves. You
are also to take care of the bark, or any other prize brought in,
until officers specially appointed shall take them in charge, and to
preserve peace and maintain the authority of Parliament, by
punishing malignity and disaffection. [I. 94, p. 87.] |
April 13.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Blunt. One Bird, formerly a commander
in the King's army, keeps an inn at Gravesend, where there is
frequent resort of disaffected persons, particularly Cols. Washington
and Legge, and much plotting, and many young men sent thence
into Holland, to the eldest son of the late King. We are also informed that there is a bridge at the same house, by which men are
sent abroad in a secret way, which may prejudice the State, and is
against the order of the government of Gravesend. You are to inform yourself of the condition and affection of this person, and whether
any bridges besides the common bridge of the town should be allowed
to stand, whereby persons are secretly conveyed abroad without
showing their passes. [I. 94, p. 88.] |
April 13.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Judges of the Admiralty. It has been
reported by the Admiralty Committee that Jno. Wilcox, merchant of
Bristol, who lately had some grocery and mercery wares, amounting
to 120l., seized on the Angel ship riding in Bristol road, bound for
Youghall or Dublin, by Cap. Fearmes, of the State's service, should,
for his sufferings for and affection to the State, have the same relief
as was lately ordered by the Council to the merchants of Bristol.
We require you,—upon security given by Wilcox to pay treble the
value of his goods so seized, in case of condemnation, and to abide
by the judgment of that court in paying what shall be decreed for
salvage or otherwise,—to order the collectors for prize goods at
Bristol to deliver back such goods. [I. 123, p. 36.] |
| April 13. |
Admiralty Committee to Thos. Smith and Jno. Hill, late collectors of prize goods. We gave you order to attend us on Thursday next, but it being a day set apart for public humiliation, we
require your attendance on Wednesday, to answer several petitions
for shares in prize goods. [I. 123, p. 36.] |
April 13.
Westminster. |
51. Admirals Rich. Deane and Robt. Blake, to the Navy Commissioners. Rich. Allen having been approved of by the Master
of Surgeons' Hall, as fit to undertake the charge of a surgeon in the
fleet going forth, we desire order for his imprest money for furnishing
his chest. [½ page.] |
April 13.
Westminster. |
52. Admirals Rich. Deane and Robt. Blake to the Navy Commissioners. We wrote you to hasten the furnishing of the Triumph,
&c. with chains, grapnels, and colours, but as we have not received
any answer, we desire you to certify what are in readiness, and sent
on board the Triumph and other ships in the Hope or at Chatham.
[3¼ pages.] |
| April 13. |
53. Princess Sophia to her brother Prince Rupert. We have
no news about "Rupert the devil" except what comes out in
print. My brother the Prince Elector is here, and cares no more
for those cursed people in England, for he has done his duty to the
King, which he might have avoided, as his affairs require him at
Cleves. The Scotch Commissioners are here also, and bring every
day some new proposal to the King, full of impertinency. They
would not that he should keep any honest man about him; they
are in great favour with the Princess of Orange, who declares much
for the Presbyterians, and says Percy is the honestest man the King
has about him. [Holograph, French, 2 pages. Endorsed: Sophia
to Rupert, intercepted.] |
| April 13. |
54. Princess Sophia to Prince Maurice. The Prince Elector is
here, and is now altogether, as we are, against the knaves; he will
soon go to his country. Peace in France is made. My brother
Edward has taken no employment. Prince Ratzevil is deadly sick
in Poland; it is said Marquis Gonzaga has poisoned him. The
States have forbidden all their ministers to pray for kings in the
churches, but the French will not desist. With note of compliment
from Charles Louis, Elector Palatine. [Holograph, German, 2 pages,
similarly endorsed.] |
| April 13. |
55. Translations of the above two letters. [2 pages, endorsed by
Bradshaw.] |
| April 14. |
Order in Parliament that Col. Temple's propositions for prevention of the export of gold or other coin, and the business of
melting down coin, be referred to the Council of State, to prevent
abuses therein and damage thereby. |
| April 14. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State consider the paper
presented to the House concerning the coining of gold brought in a
ship lately come from Guinea, for the better advancing of trade, and
that the governor or some other of the Guinea Company be required
to attend the Council of State this afternoon thereon. [I. 87,
pp. 42, 43.] |
| April 14. |
Coucil Of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Notice to be given by Sir Wm. Armyne and Sir Hen. Mildmay
to the Earl of Lincoln, that the brick keep belonging to Tattershall
Castle is to be demolished, that he may do it in such a manner that
the materials may be preserved for his own use. |
|
2. The troop under Col. Rosseter, and in the pay of county
Lincoln, to be disbanded. |
|
4. So much of the letter sent from abroad as concerns the affairs
of the sea referred to the generals at sea. |
|
6. 500l. to be advanced for the use of this Council out of the
public revenue, and Sir Hen. Vane, Sir Hen. Mildmay, and Mr. Holland to take care of it. |
|
7. Any two of the collectors for prize goods to have power to sell
perishable prize goods. |
|
8. The petition sent to the Spanish Ambassador, and by him to
this Council, referred to Dr. Walker, who is to confer thereon with
the Admiralty judges. |
|
9. This Council to endeavour to get a reading of the Bill to be
brought in by Sir Hen. Vane, to amend the act for encouragement
of seamen. |
|
10. To write to Dr. Hill, master of Trinity House, Cambridge,
that such students of that society as are willing to go in the summer's fleet may not be prejudiced in their election to fellowships to
be made about Michaelmas. |
|
11. The Navy Commissioners to consider of two small ships to
be employed in the Thames, to wait upon vessels coming in or
going out, and prevent the import or export of prohibited goods.
[Also I. 123, p. 38; and Vol. I., No. 56.] |
|
12. Aldermen Wilson and Pennington, Sir Hen. Mildmay, Sir Wm.
Masham, Mr. Heveningham, and Mr. Lisle to be a committee to
confer with Sir Jno. Wollaston and others, on the best way of
preventing the melting down of coin and transporting silver. |
|
13. The Lord General to consider the best use that may be made
of Capt. Carter's troop, lately belonging to Cheshire, with reference
to the service in Ireland. |
|
14. The information by Lawrence Smith against Whitchen,
keeper of the Dog tavern in Newgate, referred to the Lord
Mayor. |
|
15. The petition of Wm. Knight for an exchange referred to the
Lord General. [I. 62, pp. 185–188.] |
April 14.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Committee of Hants. We have received
a copy of your votes at Winton on the 5th instant, and thank you
for your care for the peace of your county, and for prevention of
danger from such persons. Take special care that all Papists and
delinquents in your county be forthwith disarmed, have a watchful
eye upon the motions of the disaffected party, and suppress any
disturbance in its infancy. [I. 94, p. 89.] |
April 14.
Derby House. |
Order of the Council of State to [the Collectors for Prize Goods]
for Francis Harvey, of Lyme, merchant, to receive the third of the
value of the Concord frigate and her goods; it appearing by several
certificates of Jonas Reeve, captain of the Elizabeth frigate, employed
in the service of the Parliament, that the said frigate having surprized
the Concord of Flushing at sea, with divers wares, merchandize, &c.
bound to Waterford to the rebels in Ireland, and since adjudged in
the Admiralty Court to be lawful prize, Harvey, at the request of
the said captain and crew, for their relief, paid to every of them
their equal third parts of such prize. [I. 123, p. 37.] |
| April 14. |
Order of the Admiralty Committee that it be reported to the
Council of State that the Henrietta Maria is fit to be employed in
the service, and that the Navy Commissioners be ordered to fit her
accordingly, and consider of the charge expended on her. With
note that this was sent in by Sir H. Vane, junr. [I. 123, p. 37.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to Sir Thos. Bendish, Ambassador at Constantinople. We have received all your letters except one, and are
satisfied of your vigilancy in our affairs, amidst your continued
troubles, as well by the uncivil contests of the factors, as by the opposition and encroachments of the ministers of the State, and the late
alteration of Government, which you were not in a capacity to remedy,
before the removal of Sir Sackville Crow (our adversary indeed,
but more immediately yours), and before you had wrought out your
establishment (which we looked upon as the first step to our own
security and welfare). We are sensible how many disturbances
have succeeded that, especially by the insolent demeanour of our
own factors at Smyrna, which we have much cause to resent, and
now more especially upon view of your care for their better regulation, by ordering their registry of bargains and money in Cancellaria, their more exact leviation of brokes, and their seasonable
shipping and landing of goods; all which being hitherto neglected
by the consul, we pray you again to mind him of putting the same
in execution, as we are no way satisfied with the arguments to
the contrary. In cases of this nature, where you enjoin any consul to perform aught in the collection of brokes, punishment of
offenders, &c., and advise us thereof, we look upon it as a sufficient
discharge of your care, and shall lay the blame of non-execution
upon the consul, of whom we must expect due performance, or else
satisfaction from his security here. We write only as an answer
to your query and not to diminish your necessary influence upon
the other factories. |
|
As for delinquencies at Constantinople, and the necessity of
exemplary justice on such as John South (whose exorbitant deportment towards you we are sorry and even ashamed to hear), as it is
in your power to see us righted, so it is left to you to do what conduces to your own honour, and our advantage in the support of the
trade. We shall not countenance the least incivilities in him or any
other, but shall maintain your actions and not listen to contrary
reports. |
|
In the case of Mr. Lancelot, if you weigh with indifferency what
we have done, you will acquit us of laying the least dishonour upon
you. It is true that—the consul at Smyrna having intimated to us a
report of your action about the ships,—we thanked you for it if true,
not being confidently assured,—in respect of the uncertainty of Capt.
Wild's relation, the want of information thereof from yourself or
any other at Constantinople, and a seeming contradiction thereto
from Mr. Lancelot,—whether it were true or false. We were so civil
as to make yourself judge, by giving you a copy of what we had from
Lancelot, which, although not usual, we did out of respect, and
therefore no just collection can be made that we regarded more that
accusation from him than your action, of which we had no sooner
advice from you than full satisfaction. |
|
What we have since done in relation to Mr. Lancelot is what we
could not deny to any one, namely, to order that if any part of his
estate were sequestered there for want of an account from him, the
same might be restored now that we have that account. Yet we
should be very glad that it and all former accounts of the treasurers
at Smyrna were surveyed exactly, according to your former intention. Although we minded you of a particular view of their accounts from 5 August 1647, in regard of information we had of the
short entries of sundry ships about the same time consigned to that
house, yet we meant not to limit you to that only; and considering
how great cause there is, we desire the same may be yet done. As
the factories of Constantinople and Smyrna are jointly to bear their
proportions of the public charge of both places, we desire that there
may be perusal of the accounts of each place by the other. |
|
Meantime we note progress in auditing of Mr. Gough's account,
which we expected would have been finished long since; we
hope the delay thereof will not produce any bad effect, which our
late heavy sufferings by his predecessor make us fear, as accounts
orderly kept may be easily drawn out and audited. We desire the
treasurer's account to be sent home to us every six months, and new
treasurers chosen every year at a general court; no factors there
that are deeply engaged at interest should be held capable of that
trust, but only persons of credit and estate. As great allowances
are exacted by Mr. Gough for his pains, grounded upon a promise
of Sir Sac. Crow, we shall give no answer till we see his accounts.
Mr. Lancelot and others intimate the doubtful condition or insufficiency of some of those factors at Constantinople; you have since
given other testimony, yet we much fear a reality in those complaints, as their principals here lament much their want of returns:
have an especial eye to them, and if possible clear our doubts, for
facilitating whereof we enclose a letter to the factory, to be opened
at a general court, and the business so examined that we may see
upon what ground we stand. |
| April 15. |
And since the factors are apt to ruin themselves by their private
trading, and taking up moneys at interest for that end, we entreat
you to mind those remembrances we gave you before your departure
hence, namely, to view the commissions of all private ships coming
thither and give us advice thereof; to register in Cancellaria bargains
and money taken up at interest, and advise us every six months. |
|
As to the proportioning of the leviations there and at Smyrna, we
concur with you for raising leviations according to the proportions
of goods at each place, the condition of the trade at Constantinople, which was formerly much greater than that to Smyrna,
being now much altered, through embargoes and other disturbances
there. We approve your desiring the whole debt, which really concerns the company, to be cleared that way, and no running at interest
permitted. |
|
Thanks for your advice to Smyrna touching the Talent and
Hunter's false entries. For the answer you gave the Venetians' pretences touching Sir Sac. Crow's debt of 40,000 dollars, we shall
be ready to answer them when they make any claim thereof here;
thanks also for your care concerning the abuses in silk at Smyrna,
which you are to prosecute, it being of much consequence to our
trade and to the poor of this kingdom. |
|
We are sorry for the death of our old servant Signor Domenico,
and note your appointment of your secretary to supply his charge in
Cancellaria, for which service we conceive 400 or 500 dollars a year
will be a competent allowance, although Domenico of late years received more, in regard of his long service and total dependence on
the company, and of his great and general experience as interpreter, &c.
We have had sundry solicitations from Libbe Chapman, both while he
was in England, and since from Italy, for the employment of consul
either at Aleppo or Smyrna, to which we have as often given a negative answer, and therefore wonder he should again trouble you or us. |
|
We observe what you and that factory have done for supply of
the consulate of the Morea upon the death of Mr. Gatward, but as
Mr. Francis, who was designed for that employment, is under great
engagements to sundry persons, we are now upon choice of some
other, who must give security in 3,000l. for performance of his trust.
On the vacancy of any consul, have a special eye to the credit and
sufficiency of the person deputed, considering how greatly we may
suffer by the contrary. An instance thereof we have by the late
demeanour of Geo. Ivate; being, upon his own and friends' urgent
importunity, engaged to go thither at 500 dollars' allowance for expenses of the journey, without putting us to any other charge, we
wonder any further loan should be made him there. Better if he
had been kept from thence, for the trade of Cyprus suffers more by
his presence than otherwise it would have done, we having no advantage by his service, but very uncivil language. |
|
As for Thos. Coleman, amongst other of his actions, we hear of
one of very dangerous consequence, viz., the lading the George at
the Morea in English names for Venice with oils, a commodity prohibited, and therefore exposing our whole estate and the lives of
our factors at Turkey to hazard, if the same should be known at
Constantinople. He has since laden the company's currants (?) there
upon the Blossom for account of private men, to our damage. Pray
prevent the mischiefs threatened us by him, either by sending him
off the place or otherwise. |
|
Late letters inform us that the Barnardistons at Smyrna have
laden the Employment with fruit and cute at Scala Nova, to our like
danger, both being contraband. Pray send down to Smyrna a strict
prohibition of transgressing in that kind, with an express declaration that if any Avania happen, by reason of their lading fruit or
cute, the same shall be borne by the person offending. |
|
Our difference with Sir Sac. Crow still hangs in suspense, being
so retarded by the alterations here that nothing has been done for
months. We have ordered the consul at Smyrna to demand of
Mr. Brent, &c. copies of their account of Strangers' consulage delivered to Sir Sac. Crow; also notice what they have received since,
which, if they refuse to make good, you are to send down authority
for enforcing the same. [Copy, signed by Wm. Cokayne, deputy
governor, Roger Vivyan, treasurer, and 10 others. Levant Papers,
Vol. IV. pp. 92–99.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to the Treasurer and Factors at Constantinople.
We need not tell you of the late great decay of our trade to that
place, nor of our discouragements, which are many, but chiefly those
extraordinary and excessive leviations made upon our estates, caused
in great part by the fraudulent practices of some of that factory, in
shifting the debts of particular men upon the company, in which the
major part having been, we fear, involved, the rest hold themselves
obliged to a compliancy. Now many of our company, your principals here, much lament a want of their expected returns from
some of you, and so great a prejudice have they sustained thereby,
that the company in general are disheartened from dealing at
that place, especially whilst persons remain there, of whom they
have so great a suspicion. Therefore we desire that the premises and the matter of our present doubts may be fairly communicated and examined by his lordship and a general court there,
that we may have a discovery from you of such as are faulty, and
advice in what way we may trade thither with more security in
future. Our advice is, that you will punctually perform those conditions you receive from your principals, without freighting ships
for private trade, of which so many have had ill experience. |
|
The advantage of our trade much depends upon your strict
observation of orders, of which we remind you; viz., that once
every year a new treasurer be elected, and that his accounts be
fairly audited every six months; that all bargains and all money
taken up at interest be registered in Cancellaria; and that all necessary expenses of the company be raised by proportionable leviation
upon the estate there and at Smyrna, and by no means run at
interest; but we hope the large leviations which have been made
have cleared that great burden which hitherto has been upon us
You are also to note what sums are owing at interest by any of our
nation. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 100, 101.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to Capt. Wild, consul at Smyrna. We have
received Mr. Brent's account to 5 Oct. We approve your care in
surveying the omissions and overcharges, and certifying abuses,
which course we desire to be taken with the latter account, to
5 Aug. For the future, as both those factories are jointly to bear
the proportion of the public expenses, there shall be an interchangeable perusal of the accounts. We are glad to be put in hopes of a
period to our vast expenses, which have been cleared by an equal
leviation upon the estate at both these ports; if any like occasion
of an extraordinary public charge happen, the like course shall be
taken for extinguishing it, and no running at interest permitted.
Any money taken up at interest by particular men is to be registered in Cancellaria, which you are to see effected, and for which
his Lordship has sent you express order, as also for due collection of
brokes, which we conceive you might find out some way to reserve,
and frustrate the practices used for defrauding us of them, although
it is better to accept of consulage and leviations alone, than lose all.
Try to obtain all our dues, and at least find out means that upon
such goods as come thither indirectly, we may receive our imposts
here as well as consulage there, which may be done by private
intimation from you, or some mark upon the bills of exchange. |
|
We notice the 500 dollars recovered of the Loyalty with thanks.
Mr. Brandon and Mr. Poolsted shall have credit for their bills; as
for Robt. Keble's 2,000 dollars, his uncle, Jos. Keble, late treasurer
here, has received it in ready money, of whom or any other you
need not be afraid, for we shall save you harmless in what you execute
by our order. As to your complaint of glutting the market, &c.,
we cannot say anything, but only remind you of registering bargains
in Cancellaria, which would prevent much injury many ways.
Pray certify the abuses in raw silk, being a matter of great consequence to us and the whole kingdom. |
|
We hoped the obstruction of trade, by the stop of our ships at
Constantinople, would have been remedied by Sig. Amerigo Salvetti,
resident there for the Duke of Florence (sic), who, some time past,
giving, our company thanks, in the name of that State of Venice,
for hindering our ships from serving the Turks against them, intimated that the State of Venice had strictly ordered their fleet
not to give the least interruption to English ships in their passage
to and from Constantinople; but not finding any effect of his
message, but on the contrary, a necessity of transporting our goods
overland to Constantinople, we have acquainted him therewith, and
he has promised to represent our complaint to the Venetians. By
ours of the 5th we signified our resolution concerning the lag of the
Sampson's cloth, which coming on other ships, you were to expect
a certificate thereof from us, or look upon them as unfree goods. |
|
Remarks on lading of contraband goods, and the ambassadors'
orders to consuls, as in the letter to Bendish. You are to demand
from Mr. Brent the account of strangers' consulage which they
delivered to Sir Sac. Crow; there should be a good remainder of
that money in their hands, which you should discover and procure
for us. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 102–104.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to Sam. Barnardiston, at Smyrna. Thanks for
your care in the collection of our duties, and for your acquainting us
with the state of your account to 5 Oct., delivered to the consul to be
examined. Also for your pains therein and advice, especially what
you say touching the leviation on moneys, which we cannot as yet
resolve should be omitted. |
|
We hear that the Employment and Bendish are lading at Scala
Nova, with fruits and cute freighted by you, which being both
contraband, we wonder that you should entertain any such design
as may possibly produce so great a hazard to us; if any Avania
happen thereupon, yourself or others who lade the goods are to
be liable. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 105.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to Geo. Ivate. You complain of too mean an
allowance for your maintenance in that charge. As we made you
consul upon your own and your friends' importunity, and covenanted
with you for a certain allowance by the consulage of the place, and
factorage of those who should employ you, we expect that you
satisfy yourself with the same, or thank your own improvidence
for accepting of it then, and afterwards falling into complaints. We
did not imagine you should take up moneys at Constantinople, and
after charge bills thither for more, of which we expect repayment
by you, or satisfaction from your sureties here. If you do not
receive that content you hoped for, we shall not (though we might),
force your continuance, but we do not hold it reasonable to make
any further allowance than what we contracted with you for.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 105, 106.] |
April 15.
London. |
Levant Company to Roger Middleton. We note your letters of
14 Aug. and 15 Sept. to the committee of our company appointed
for managing the last year's trade of currants, then appropriated to
the body of the company, but now for weighty reasons, set at large.
We understand that our husband, Henry Hunt, has answered the
other points, and what concerns your discharge from that employment. We expect that you have received of Mataxe what moneys
you entrusted him with, as also such other currants as you were to
receive from him, otherwise the loss thereof must lie upon yourself.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., pp. 106, 107.] |
| April 16. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Mr. Parker, Recorder of Gravesend, to attend to-morrow. |
|
5. Col. Reynolds to be informed that care shall be taken for his
pay in future, in such way as the rest of the army to be sent over
to that service. |
|
9. Col. Monk's letter referred to the Committee for Irish affairs,
and Lord Lisle added to the Committee. |
|
11. Mr. Scott to report the commission now offered by him for
the commander-in-chief of the forces for Ireland to-morrow. |
|
12. The Spanish Ambassador to be informed, in answer to the
paper sent by his secretary, that it is not contrary to any alliance
between the two nations to hinder the carrying of Irishmen into
the service of Spain; and that it is in the Council's power to dispose of them as they conceive best for the commonwealth, which
they have done. |
|
14. Sir Oliver Fleming to carry the above message to the Spanish
Ambassador. |
|
15. The letters from the President of Connaught referred to the
Committee for Irish affairs. |
|
16. Oliver French, now at Milford, who was with the Irishmen as their conductor, and all other persons of quality taken to be
sent up to London in safe custody, to be disposed of as Parliament
shall think fit. |
|
17. The Spanish Ambassador to be requested to give the names of
the counsel retained against him in the business of the Sta. Clara. |
|
18. Lady Carlisle's business to be heard next Wednesday. |
|
19. Mr. King to attend on the above matter to-morrow. |
|
20. The lodgings in Somerset house, lately possessed by the Prince
Elector, to be given for the use of the Lord General. |
|
21. Lord Chandos to have 14 days allowed before he begins to
disfortify Sudeley Castle. |
|
27. Sir Chas. Coote and Col. Monk's letters to be reported to the
House by Mr. Scott. |
|
28. To report to the House that an express letter should be sent
to Scotland, to acquaint them with the attempts of their countrymen
in Ireland upon Sir Chas. Coote's garrison at Londonderry, and
other garrisons, and to request that they should disown them therein,
and that the garrisons of Carrickfergus, Belfast, and Coleraine be
required to submit to the commander-in-chief. |
|
29. To report to the House that the second moiety of the composition for the delinquents of South Wales, amounting to 10,000l.,
may be assigned for the service of Ireland, for a present credit. |
|
31. The Star Chamber Committee to give an account in what
preparation the provisions charged upon the 5,000l. remaining upon
the contracts made by Mr. Davies and others are, and when they
may be ready, and put the same in a way for speedy dispatch; Lord
Lisle to confer with them thereon. |
|
32. Alderman Andrews and the late contractors to be dealt with
to advance provisions to the amount of 10,000l., upon the arrears of
former ordinances for Ireland. |
|
33. The proposals for compounding with delinquents in Anglesey
to be considered. |
|
34. Two regiments of horse and two of foot to be sent to Ulster,
as assistance to Sir Chas. Coote, and provision made for them.
[I. 62, pp. 189–196.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Reynolds. By yours from Banbury, we
are informed of the seasonable arrival of our orders, when you were
at your rendezvous, and are much satisfied with the general compliance of your regiment, and your care to maintain the authority
of the commonwealth in your regiment, and your resolute and successful reducement of those who were contumacious and refractory.
While this care is used to restore and keep discipline amongst our
forces, we may expect such service from them as will preserve the
safety of the commonwealth. Thanks for your diligence to prevent
disaffection from the pressure upon the people, both by the charge
of free quarter, and yet more by the insufferable insolencies and incivilities of many unruly soldiers. Take special care that quarter
may be paid, and that in a time of so great dearth, the men be content with moderate provision, and abstain from insolence and
incivility, which is the greatest difficulty for free people to bear;
and while they lie under it, they will have little taste of their promised liberty. [I. 94, p. 90.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Lord Mayor of London. We have appointed some of our number to confer with the Committee of adventurers at Grocers' Hall for lands in Ireland, about something of
special concern to them, and desire that you, on Thursday next, being
the fast day, do cause warning to be given in the several churches to
the said adventurers, to meet some of us the next day at 3 o'clock
at Grocers' Hall. [I. 94, p. 91; 62, p. 195.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. We find that the Scots
in Ulster have revolted from their obedience, and besiege Londonderry. To prevent the growing of that mischief, and all intercourse
between them and Scotland, we desire that three small vessels of
the Irish squadron be ordered to ply up and down in the channel
between Ireland and Scotland, obeying the commands of Col. Monk.
Also that the whole of the Irish squadron be despatched to attend
the service of Ireland, hinder their supplies from abroad, prevent
their piracies and depredations at sea, and destroy their ships,
wherever they shall take them. In this and all services conducive
to the preservation of the English interest in Ireland, and to the
reducing thereof to obedience, you shall command the utmost
diligence. [I. 94, p. 92.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Commanders of the Ships in and about
Chester and Liverpool. We have ordered Col. Reynolds' regiment
of horse to march to Anglesey for transportation to Ireland, and
that they may be furnished with shipping, and not either continue
here to the pressure of the country, or be absent thence where their
service is so necessary, we desire that the ships which, under your
convoy, transport Col. Tothill's foot, may be commanded back again
to the ports in Anglesey fittest for the shipping of the said regiment
of horse, when Mr. Whalley of Chester will see them despatched.
[I. 94, p. 93.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Committee of Merchants at Mincing lane.
There are 170 Irish taken at sea in a Holland ship, who pretended
to be going from Galway to Middleburg, and are now at Milford.
The common men should be sent to the plantations, and therefore
we desire you to treat with such as trade thither, to transport them
where use may be made of their service for the advancement of
those plantations, and to return us a speedy answer, that in case
they be not thus disposed of, some other course may be taken to ease
the country of them. [I. 94, p. 92a; 62, p. 192.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Contractors for Ireland. There are 500
quarters of rye upon your contract not yet delivered at Dublin, and
the want of it may endanger the safety of that place. [I. 94,
pp. 92a, 93a.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Lord General. There has been a disorderly assembly of people at St. George's Hill, near Oatlands, and
although their avowed pretence for being there may seem very
ridiculous, it may be a beginning of dangerous consequence. Take
care that some force of horse be sent to Cobham in Surrey, to disperse those people so met, and to prevent the like for the future,
that a disaffected party may not, under colour of such ridiculous
people, rendezvous themselves in order to greater mischief. [I. 94,
p. 93.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Justices of the Peace near Cobham,
Surrey. To similar effect. We desire you, according to the trust
committed to you for preservation of peace, to send for the contrivers or promoters of those riotous meetings, and to proceed
against them. [I. 94, p. 94.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Barons of the Exchequer. Reference of
a petition from Lady St. John, they being a court of appeal in
cases of sequestrations. [I. 94, p. 95.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Committee at Haberdashers' Hall. Long
since there was an order, by the committee at the Star Chamber
for the affairs of Ireland, to pay 1,752l. to Sir Hardress Waller,
for raising a regiment of foot for Ireland, which was not raised, and
thereupon the money was not paid. The present exigency for
Ireland requires all possible and expeditious supplies, and the said
money, having been so long since ordered, must now be ready in
the Treasurer's hands; otherwise we desire it may be forthwith
ready, and you shall receive warrant for its payment. [I. 94,
pp. 95, 96.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Messrs. Holland, Smith, and Rob. Thomson,
Navy Commissioners. Your bargain for the tops and lops of trees
which you had ordered to be cut down for the navy, and for the bark,
shall be performed, and yet what appears to be due to the inhabitants
of the forest shall be made good to them. You are therefore to
inquire whether Livery wood used to be delivered to them, or was
had casually, as there happened to be any fall of wood: if the former,
they may be satisfied in the same way as before; if by custom they
claim it upon the fall, we wish it had been known before your
bargain was made. However it is not our purpose to prejudice
their right. [I. 94, p. 96; 62, p. 194; Vol. I., No. 57.] |
April 16.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Mr. Whalley. We hope Col. Tothill's regiment will soon be shipped. We have ordered Col. Reynolds'
regiment to march to Anglesey to be transported from Beaumaris or
Holyhead to Ireland. That they may not stay there to waste the
country, or be retarded from going where their service is so necessary,
order the ships that carry over Col. Tothill's foot to return forthwith to transport them. [I. 94, p. 97.] |
| April 16. |
58. Peter Pett to the Navy Committee. I have surveyed the
Warspite and find her unserviceable, but the [Navy] Commissioners
are willing to repair her, and Capt. Rich. Crandley to make her
serviceable at his own charge, provided she is valued by two
indifferent men after being repaired, which can be done in 10 days,
and she be ready to take in provisions, if order is given for the same.
Noted that a warrant for rigging her was sent by Wm. Wheatley,
commander. [½ page.] |
April 16.
Westminster. |
59. Admirals Ri. Deane and Robt. Blake to the Navy Commissioners. We hear from Capt. Moulton that Capt. Hall's frigate, the
Adventure, being so foul that it was not fit to keep at sea, and his
victuals being expended, he has sent her to clean and revictual at
Plymouth, where Mr. Goodyear promises to supply her. As you
know her usefulness at sea, and the smallness of Capt. Moulton's
squadron until Col. Popham gets to him, we desire you to write
Mr. Goodyear to furnish her and the Leopard. We sent you
Capt. Moulton's paper last week, as to the proportion of victuals the
Leopard was short of; he presses for a supply, lest the service should
be prejudiced by his coming into port. [1 page.] |
| April 17. |
Order in Parliament that it be referred to the Council of State
to send into Scotland as they shall think fit, in reference to the
present business of Ireland. |
|
That the 10,000l., being the second payment of the composition
of the delinquents in South Wales, shall be paid for the service of
Ireland, and that the acquittances of such persons as shall be
appointed by the Council of State for receiving thereof shall be a
sufficient discharge to such as shall pay the same. |
|
That the Council of State take course for raising money for the
present service of Ireland, upon the credit of that 10,000l., and
treat with the city of London, and members of the several halls, as
also the Adventurers for Ireland, touching the advance of money
for the present relief of Ireland. [I. 87, pp. 43–44.] |
| April 17. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Mr. Frost to give notice to Mr. Coytmor of all orders passed
by Council relating to the Generals or their ships. |
|
3. The Irish Committee to state how many flat-bottomed ships
will be necessary for transporting forces into Ireland, and when. |
|
4. Also whether the ships coming out of Holland to transport
forces into Ireland may not bring over the provision of corn to be
made in those parts for Ireland. |
|
5. Also that Committee to be informed that though Lord Lisle
reported that the bargain with Mr. Davies and company, for 5,000l.
worth of provisions in Ireland, was not performed, Col. Monk certifies
that near 3,000l. worth is already delivered. |
|
7. Capt. Joyce's complaint against a storekeeper at Portsmouth
referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
8. Sixpence a day to be paid by Mr. Whalley for quartering such
men as Colonel Moore shall bring to the waterside for Ireland, during
their stay for wind and weather, but no pay to be made until they
are brought together by sixties, and mustered by Whalley. |
|
9. Major Rigby's offer to bring a regiment to the waterside for
service in Ireland referred to the Irish Committee. |
|
10. The Irish Committee to prepare resolutions to be offered as
security to the Committee of Adventurers for raising money for
Ireland, and Messrs. Maurice Thomson, Pennoyer, Estwicke, and
Hawkins to attend the Committee to-morrow. |
|
11. The Irish Committee to confer with the Adventurers' Committee on Friday as to raising money for Ireland. |
|
12. Sir Hen. Vane, Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell, Sir Wm. Armyne, and
Lord Lisle to be a committee to consider in what condition we
stand in reference to Scotland, either in regard to England or
Ireland, and whether any addresses shall be made to them, and how. |
|
13. Dr. Dorislaus to attend to-morrow. |
|
14. Dr. Walker to be counsel to the Spanish ambassador, if it will
stand with the duty of his place; if otherwise, he is to direct him to
some others, and if they cannot be instructed in time, a further
day to be granted. |
|
15. Instructions for Sir Oliver Fleming in his address to the
Spanish Ambassador. To signify that the Admiralty judges say the
taking of the ship was not contrary to any articles of alliance, the
Irish nation having no power to treat with foreign states for transport of men; and being declared rebels, the English can deal with
them as they think fit. Oliver French, their conductor, is a native of
Galway, and has committed treason; therefore the Council has given
order for disposal of the men, and will leave the ship and goods to
the Admiralty. The Council cannot permit these nor the rest of the
men to be transported, it being a private transaction of a rebel
against the sovereignty of the Commonwealth. [I. 62, pp. 198–203.] |
April 17.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. We have given order
to Col. Reynolds' regiment to be shipped from Beaumaris or Holyhead to Ireland. You are to send some convoy to be upon those
coasts, and order fit ships sufficient for transportation of the regiment of 600 men, besides officers. Do this with speed, to avoid
pressure to the country, and because the affairs of Ireland require
their presence. [I. 94, p. 98.] |
April 17.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Reynolds. To similar effect. Your
regiment is to march to Anglesey to be shipped, and as the country
is everywhere poor, take care your quarters be paid, that the people
may not be further impoverished or disaffected to the present
Government. [I. 94, p. 99.] |
April 17.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Major-General Ashton. Though we have
written to Major-General Lambert to disband the troop of Capt.
Bamber, he not only continues his troop, but increases it by the
addition of disorderly men, who take free quarter and oppress the
country. We therefore desire you to disband that troop by force, if
they will not otherwise lay down their arms; and as he has by his
disobedience been a great burden to the country, secure him and the
rest of the officers, to be proceeded with according to their merit;
the horses and arms in their possession are to be restored to those
from whom they have been taken, if that may be known; if
not, they are to be reserved to the use of the Commonwealth.
[I. 94, pp. 99, 100.] |
April 17.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Horton. There are in those parts 170
Irish taken at sea, and brought into Milford Haven. We have
ordered the disposing of the common men; for Oliver French, and
other officers and men of quality, we desire you to have them sent
up to London in safe custody, and specially to keep safely French,
who is the conductor of these, and the undertaker for 700 more,
that are to be shipped at Galway, for Flanders, as they pretend, but
more likely for Holland, for the service of Charles Stuart. French
has been for months past very active in treasonable designs against
England, in parts beyond the seas. [I. 94, pp. 100, 101.] |
April 17.
Westminster. |
60. Generals Ri. Deane and Robert Blake to the Navy Commissioners. The Council of State ordered some scudding sails to be
supplied to the fleet, the better to enable them to give chase; as
we intend going down to-morrow, we desire you to send such as
are ready on board the Triumph, and inform us whether any have
been sent to the frigates at Chatham. [¾ page.] |
| April 17. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Reference to the Navy Commissioners of the petition of Thos.
Larkin, complaining of having been unjustly ousted of his place
of drawing timber to Chatham yard. |
|
Order that according to the desire of the Generals of the fleet,
the secretary shall weekly give them an account what intelligence
arrives here or to the Council, in relation to their present employment, or the imparting of which may in any way benefit the State,
and that Mr. Frost, secretary to the Council of State, be desired to
impart the same to the before-mentioned secretary. [I. 123, p. 38.] |
| April 18. |
Order in Parliament, upon the report of Mr. Allen from the committee of the forms of various stamps for coin, that the Council of
State consider them, advise with the committee thereon, and report
to the House. [I. 87, p. 44.] |
| April 18. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Order that Dr. Dorislaus be sent over to the States General,
as Resident from England, to be conjoined with Mr. Strickland,
for carrying on the public affairs, and bring his credentials, letters,
&c. that the Council may give him speedy despatch. |
|
2. Mr. Frost to confer with Dr. Dorislaus, concerning the state of
his arrears. |
|
3. Lady Carlisle's business to be considered next Friday. |
|
4, 5. Dr. Walker to be assigned as counsel for the Spanish Ambassador, in the business of the Sta. Clara, referred to the Council of
State, and the matter to be heard next Wednesday. |
|
6. Order to be given for 6d. a day to Colonels Hungerford and
Venables' men. |
|
7. Lieut.-Col. Napier's desires referred to the Irish committee. |
|
8. Mr. Witherings to prosecute Wilkes for the seditious speeches
mentioned by him, and to confer with the Council thereon, so that
he may be proceeded against this term in the superior bench. |
|
9. The money assigned to Sir Henry Tichborne for going to Ireland, and formerly ordered to be paid in course, to be now paid out
of the 2,000l. laid aside for incidental charges, and a warrant issued
to Sir Adam Loftus for that purpose. [I. 62, pp. 204, 205.] |
April 18.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. We recommend
Thomas Colpot for the place of storekeeper at Chatham, void by
removal of Mr. Capon, unless you can show just cause to the
contrary. [I. 94, p. 101.] |
April 18.
Westminster. |
61. Generals Robt. Blake and Ri. Deane to the Navy Commissioners. The Swan having arrived from Ireland, destitute of victuals and defective, we desire she may be supplied with one month's
victuals at Chester, so as to bring her up to Chatham. [½ page.] |
April 19.
Hamburg. |
62. Dan. Hechstetter, treasurer, on behalf of the fellowship
of the Hamburg Company, to the Lord President and Council of
State. Having lately obtained public recommendations to the
senate here, with credentials to qualify our deputy for our protection,
we are most sensible that a favour is intended to us and all merchants; this, amidst all the incumbrances of a consuming trade,
in these hard times, is no small encouragement, and therefore duty
necessitates us to return our acknowledgments. But the honour
conferred upon our deputy is not conceived by him to be consistent
with his other employments, upon which the subsistence of his
family depends, and he desires to be excused, and we join our intercession with his that it may be transferred to some other, so that
the favour intended us may not be frustrated. [¾ page.] |
| April 20. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The character for the coin of England chosen by Council to be
fairly drawn and presented to the House. |
|
2. The letter read for a credential to Dr. Dorislaus to be delivered
to the 18 sovereignties in Holland, to be reported to the House. |
|
3. To request the House that he may have the same credentials
as given to Mr. Strickland. |
|
4. Mr. Frost to prepare instructions for Dr. Dorislaus, according
to orders of Council. |
|
5. The House to be moved that power be given to the Speaker to
sign his credentials. |
|
6. 200l. to be advanced to him. |
|
7. Also the 100l. due to him on a former account. |
|
9. Commission to be given to two certain persons to give constant
intelligence to the generals of the fleet, as also thanks for their great
affection to the commonwealth. |
|
10. The 1,700l. at Haberdashers' Hall to be paid to Sir Adam
Loftus, and issued by him. |
|
14. The petition of Watkins, searcher of the port of London, to
be —. |
|
15. The serjeant to tell the Committee for Whitehall that the
Council requires some rooms there. |
|
16. The Irish Committee to report on the engaging Dutch bottoms
for transporting the army to Ireland. |
|
17. The letters brought in by Mr. Watkins to be examined by
Mr. Frost or Mr. Milton, to see if they contain anything concerning
the exportation of prohibited goods. |
|
18. Lady Carlisle's business to be heard to-morrow, and the committee appointed on the matter to be summoned. [I. 62, pp. 206–209.] |
| April 20. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Smith and Hill, late collectors for prize goods, returned an answer
in writing to the petition of the company of the Ann Percy, as to
their shares due out of the prizes taken by them. [I. 123, p. 38.] |
April 20.
Hamburg. |
63. Isaac Lee to the Council of State. Together with a letter to
the senate here in favour of our company, I have received credentials
from Parliament, and am instructed to appear and act as a public
minister here. The senate's letter touching our company's present
affairs is delivered; but the credentials,—although I esteem myself
honoured by them, and acknowledge the favour, as intended for
some stay and assurance to us, and our languishing trade in these
sad times,—are not yet presented; not out of any disaffection, but
rather my devotion to your service, that I choose to attend further
commands in a matter of such importance. I am conscious of my
own imperfections, being now in years; and having never from my
youth moved in any other sphere but commerce, dare not undertake such a charge, in matters wherein I have never been versed.
And if I were qualified, yet I am the father of divers children;
I can only support my family by my trade, and cannot longer continue trade if I engage in higher business. It is too well known
here that when I undertook the place of deputy, on the importunity of
the company, and with a resolution to prefer their good before that
of my family, I much prejudiced myself in trade; and if I should
now undertake any further state employment, none would be content to be a partner with me, nor could I deal as a merchant any
longer. I beg that I may not be misinterpreted for not delivering
the State's credentials, and that I may be dismissed of this public
charge, and the same conferred upon some fitter person. [¾ page.] |
April 20.
The Hague. |
64. Charles II. to Sir Jno. Grenville, Governor of Scilly. We
find the ship Crowned Lion, which put into Scilly, belongs to the
merchants of Amsterdam, as also the goods and lading mentioned
in the paper enclosed. We therefore require you to cause her to be
discharged, without diminution, and permit Thos. Cornelius, her
master, to sail in the company of the Dutch men-of-war now sent to
convoy him. In case there are more goods or merchandise than
mentioned in the paper, you are to detain the same until further
order, except it belongs to the master or mariners. [Copy, ¾ page.] |
| April 21. |
Order in Parliament, that the Speaker sign all letters prepared
by the Council of State, to be sent to Holland. [I. 87, p. 44.] |
| April 21. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
3, 4. The London of Flushing, and a ship in Milford Haven, taken
while transporting some Irish to Flanders, to be engaged in the
State's service. |
|
6. Directions to be sent to Bristol, Barnstaple, and Plymouth, to
take up ships for transporting horses. |
|
7. Letters to be written to assure Cols. Jones and Monk and Sir
Chas. Coote of relief to be sent with the first fair wind. |
|
8. The Irish committee to consider as to sending Colonel Mervyn
and Sir Jas. Montgomery to Ireland. |
|
9. The ship lying in the Thames with 600 quarters of corn to be
sent to Londonderry. |
|
10. The Irish Committee to consider what number of men should
be sent to Londonderry for its relief, and where they are to be had. |
|
13. Sir Oliver Fleming to inform the Dutch Ambassador that the
State is sending Dr. Dorislaus as a resident there, for Parliament. |
|
14. Lady Carlisle's business to be concluded next Tuesday. |
|
15. Alderman Wilson to give in a report to the House, that Thos.
Simons be appointed chief engraver to the mint and seals, and the
report on the stamps. [I. 62, pp. 212–214.] |
April 21.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The Phoenix and
Tiger still remain at Chatham, for want of victuals, and those ships
that are not with the Generals want many things for their complete
furnishing. We are sorry that any of those ships appointed for the
summer's service should not be ready with the rest. We therefore
desire you to set them forth with all expedition. [I. 94, p. 102.] |
April 21.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. To similar effect. We
desire that the persons mentioned by you as taken by Capt. Bodiley
may be sent up hither, with the examinations concerning them.
[I. 94, pp. 102, 103.] |
April 21.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Admirals of the Fleet. We have appointed
Dr. Dorislaus to repair to the United Provinces about some affair of
great concern to the commonwealth; we therefore desire you to
order some fit ship to receive him and his servants, &c., and to
transport them with expedition. [I. 94, p. 103.] |
April 21.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall. There
was money charged upon the receipts at Goldsmiths' Hall for payment of the forces of Lancashire that are to be disbanded. It very
much imports the commonwealth that the country be eased of that
charge, the continuance whereof breeds discontent and disaffection,
which the malignants know how to improve to raise new troubles.
You are therefore to pay that money with speed. [I. 94, p. 104.] |
| April 21. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Note that letters were sent to Captains Saltonstall, Wheeler, and
another in one from the secretary to Mr. Whalley at Chester, enclosing
one from the Council, concerning his speedy shipping away to Ireland
all the forces coming to the water side. The letters to the captains
contained a check for riding in the harbour, and orders to receive
commands from Whalley. [I. 123, p. 38.] |
April 21.
Lee Road. |
65. Admirals Rich. Deane and Robt. Blake to the Navy Commissioners. For the beer you desired to be returned, eight tuns of it
were intended for our ship, but we cannot stow more than she has
already, which fills her hold to the deck, although there is no more
ballast than covers the riders; we cannot at present examine why
the Andrew did not take in what was assigned to her, she being yet
in the Hope, but ordered to fall down hither speedily. Touching
the flags, &c., it seems strange you refer the proportions to be ascertained by us, yourselves knowing best the former allowances, which
we suppose are alike in number in every expedition; we think that
you should make up what you have already sent for ourselves, to
three standards; our Vice and Rear-Admiral, with the Admiral, ViceAdmiral, and Rear-Admiral of Ireland, three flags apiece; and two
jacks for every ship in the fleet. For the ensigns and pendants, you
best know how many are wanting. |
|
The Phoenix and Tiger are still detained at Chatham for victuals;
you know the services that wait them abroad, and the prejudice
accruing by their lying in harbour. [1¼ pages.] |
April 22.
The Hague. |
66. Charles II. to Prince Rupert. Having received good information of the abilities of Capt. Jno. Denton for sea services, and
of the many faithful services he has performed to our late father
and to us, we recommend him to you, and desire you to employ him
in our service as there shall be occasion, doubting not but he will
acquit himself honestly, faithfully, and stoutly. [½ page. Signed.
Intercepted and endorsed, "Charles Stuart to Rupert."] |
| April 23. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Col. Jno. Reynolds to have his bond. |
|
2. 20l. to be given to a man going to the Generals of the fleet, to
do a special service. |
|
3. Mr. Frost to write them to give credence to him. |
|
4. The Generals' letter concerning the taking of a ship carrying
men from Flanders to St. Sebastian, and the commission given to
the captain of the ship, referred to Alderman Wilson. |
|
5. The Admiralty Committee to confer with the Navy Commissioners as to setting out four great ships, and give an estimate of
the charge, and in what time they will be ready. [Vol. I., No. 67.] |
|
6. The business of the farmers of the customs to be considered
next Thursday. |
|
8. Two copies of the instructions for Dr. Dorislaus and Mr. Strickland's residency in Holland to be written, one signed by the Council
and sealed, and the other by the Speaker. |
|
9. The desires of Dr. Dorislaus referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
10. That part of his desire relating to the library keeper's place
at St. James's to be considered. |
|
11. Col. Wauton, Sir Hen. Vane, Col. Wilson, and Sir Arthur
Hesilrigge, to be a committee to confer with the Parliamentary Committee concerning the export of gold and silver. |
|
12. The ship — to be discharged, upon the Spanish Ambassador certifying that the men in her are for the service of the King
of Spain. |
|
14. Sir Wm. Armyne, Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell and Mr. Scott to
confer with Mr. King, agent from Sir Chas. Coote, as to sending
Col. Mervyn and Sir Jas. Montgomery to Ireland. |
|
15. To report to the House that as the enemy's ships are hastening out to sea, care should be taken that the money ordered for the
navy may be speedily paid, so that the remaining part of the fleet
may be set out to sea, and those that come in paid off. |
|
18. Sir Wm. Masham, Col. Wilson, Sir Hen. Mildmay, and Mr.
Heveningham to be a committee to consider the petition of Capt.
Rich, and to report as to his arrears. |
|
20. Col. Sydenham and Major Haynes to view and report on
Lulworth castle, whether it is, or can be made a house of strength.
[I. 62, pp. 215–219.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. There are several ships
of corn in the river, ready to set sail for Dublin, Chester, or Liver
pool; some of the commonwealth and others of merchants. There
is as much need of provision at the latter places as the former, they
being unable to afford bread for money to the forces that march
thither for transportation. Pray give sufficient convoy to the said
ships to Dublin, which will also serve such as are bound for Chester
or Liverpool, whom we would have the convoy take equally into
their care; lest falling into the hands of the enemy, their wants be
supplied, and our forces be disappointed of the provision at Chester,
where without it they cannot subsist until they be embarked.
[I. 94, pp. 104, 105.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. As our forces will be
ready shortly for transportation to Ireland, you are to order the
ships in Plymouth, Bristol, and Barnstaple, &c., fit for the transportation of forces, to be stayed in those ports, and put ready
against they receive order for the time and place of their employment, which they shall, when we know what numbers they are and
what burthen they are of. [I. 94, p. 103.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. The enclosed petition of
Joan Prat, for the exchange of her husband, Ralph Prat, two sons, and
two servants, now prisoners at Jersey, has been presented to this
Council. We commiserate her therein, and wish you to make an
exchange for them as speedily as possible. [I. 94, p. 106; p. 212.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Jones. The White Boy, of London, has
been freighted to you from hence with provisions; when her lading
is discharged, engage her by the month for the transportation of
men, or such other service as this Council, or the Generals at sea
shall command; signify what rates you agree upon, and we will
see that they are satisfied. [I. 94, p. 106.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. We have read the
enclosed letter from the Navy Commissioners to the Admiralty
Committee, concerning the entertainment of Capt. Penn, and desire
you to pay him the allowances mentioned therein. [I. 94, p. 107.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. Concerning the Flemish
ship carrying soldiers from Ostend to Spain, taken by a ship of the
commonwealth, the Ambassador of Spain has undertaken that the
men shall be transported to Spain, and employed there for the
service of his master. You are therefore to dismiss the ship, that
she may not lose her wind. [I. 94, p. 107.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. Dr. Dorislaus was employed last year from the Parliament to the States General, concerning the revolted ships, and although what was desired did not
succeed, yet there was nothing omitted by him to conduce thereto.
There is still 100l. due, which was laid out by him in that service,
and which we are sorry is so long unpaid, as it is a discouragement
to men to be employed, when they not only contribute their pains,
but their money upon the public account, without consideration.
You are therefore to order the said 100l. to be paid to him, he
being again employed to Holland upon affairs of special concern.
[I. 94, p. 108.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. We send you a report
from the Admiralty Committee, for settling a credit in some ports
that lie most convenient for providing the two months' victuals for
the navy that is not sent with them to sea, and desire you to order
the Customs' Commissioners to give letters of credit for money to
be paid in lieu of the victuals mentioned in the said report, at such
place and to such persons as the Admirals of the fleet shall direct.
[I. 94, p. 109.] |
April 23.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. As Capt. Bodiley thinks
that the Antelope might have been surprised or destroyed, had he
not been dissuaded by Mr. Strickland, we desire you to order such
as you think fit to try to seize upon, and bring her away; or if that
cannot be, then to burn or make her unserviceable. [I. 94, pp. 109,
110.] |
| April 23. |
Council of State to the Generals of the Fleet. Being informed
by Sir Hardress Waller that the Desire of London, laden with
ammunition for the western garrison, and bound for Falmouth, is
only waiting for a convoy, as also that some Tower stores are to be
put on board the Gift of Gosport, bound for Portsmouth, for the
service of the State, we leave it to you to allot a sufficient convoy
for such vessels. [I. 123, pp. 38, 39.] |
| April 23. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order that it be reported to the Council of State that they find
no cause to make further stay of the vessel seized by the Increase,
which contained 120 Flemings, commanders, and soldiers, under
Sebastian Spinbola, and bound for St. Sebastian, as is now affirmed
by the Spanish Ambassador's secretary. Noted as reported by Col.
Wilson. |
|
Order that the petition of Mr. Collier and Mr. Somers be recommended to the Generals of the Fleet, who are to take care that the
vessels mentioned therein be committed to the charge of the first
ship going that way, and safely convoyed to the ports desired, or as
near as may be, without danger of the enemy. |
|
Also that it be reported to the Council of State that this committee are of opinion that Capt. Penn should be allowed for his
Irish service, according to the letter of the Navy Commissioners,
sent in by Sir H. Vane. [I. 123, p. 39.] |
| April 23. |
Admiralty Committee to the Admirals of the Fleet or the
Commander-in-Chief in the Downs. Lord Mandeville, having a
pass from the Speaker for tavelling beyond sea, and desiring a passage in some vessel of the State, you are to order some vessel to
receive him, his governor, wife, servants, and baggage, at Dover,
and transport them to some port near to France, and the commander
of the ship is to give him the respect fit for a person of his rank.
[I. 123, p. 39.] |
| April 24. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State consider of convoys
for all parts of the commonwealth, that the merchants may send to
Hamburg and other parts for importing corn, and of the most convenient way how it may be done, and take a speedy and effectual
course therein. [I. 87, p. 45.] |
| April 24. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2, 3. The inscriptions to be put on the English coin to be written
in the English tongue, and to be as follows, viz., on the side with the
English arms, "The Commonwealth of England," and on the other,
which bears the arms of England and Ireland, "God with us;"
Alderman Wilson to report this to the House. |
|
4. Messrs. Popham and Heveningham to confer with Sir Hardress
Waller concerning the western parts. |
|
5. Lord Chandos to be informed that on certificate of the demolition of Sudeley Castle, his petition will be considered. |
|
6. 1,000l. to be advanced on loan, out of the public revenue, for
the Irish service. |
|
7. The treasurers for the last Bill to attend the Irish committee at
Derby House to-morrow at 8 a.m. |
|
8. Capt. Clarke's paper referred to the Committee and Commissioners of the Navy, who are to take care that money and victuals
are provided for him. |
|
9. Mr. Scott to report the business concerning the Countess of
Carlisle to the House with speed. |
|
10. She to remain in the Tower until their pleasure is known. |
|
12. The Generals at sea to be informed of the state of the isle of
Scilly, and that it would be a very great service, at this conjuncture,
to seize it. |
|
14. Capt. Wauton to report Capt. Penn's case to the House. |
|
15. 10l. to be advanced to a man for a special service. |
|
16. Sixty tons of New Forest timber to be sent for repair of the
fortifications at Pendennis. |
|
17. The Lord General and the Council of War to consider as to
reducing Jersey and Guernsey. |
|
18. Mr. Frost to report on the Elencticus to-morrow. [I. 62,
pp. 222–225.] |
April 24.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Bingham (sic., see p. 104) and Major
Haynes. Before we answer Humphrey Weld's petition concerning
Lulworth Castle, co. Dorset, we desire you to view the place, and
certify whether the fact be as is suggested, and your opinion how
far the petition may be granted. [I. 94, p. 110.] |
April 24.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. We recommend to you,
as we have also done to the Navy Commissioners, the enclosed paper,
which has been presented to us as an expedient to save charge, and
to promote the service in the Irish seas, and desire that what is to
be done on your part may be executed forthwith, so as to enable
Captains Clarke and Sherwin to continue in those seas, and carry
on the service. [I. 94, p. 112; Vol. I., No. 68.] Enclosing, |
|
68 i. Note that Capt. Clarke of the Swan, and Capt. Sherwin of the
Truelove are called from the service of Ireland into the
Thames, to be paid off, though there is urgent need of vessels
between Chester and Ireland, to transport the army; and
that if Clarke had 300l. and Sherwin 150l. for three
months' pay to their men, and were revictualled in those
parts, they would serve ten weeks longer, and the State
would be saved 400l. [1 page.] |
| April 24. |
Council of State to — Johnson and Wm. Emperour [of Rotterdam]. We desire you to continue your good affection to the commonwealth, and your services in giving frequent intelligence of the
practices of our enemies, and to advise us or our generals at sea
of anything that may concern our affairs, and what charge you are
at for expresses, &c. [I. 94, p. 113; 62, p. 222.] |
| April 24. |
Council of State to the Advocate and Proctor of the Admiralty.
The Navy Commissioners having sent to the Council of State some
papers in reference to a design to be performed by several persons
in the Endeavour ketch, you are to proceed in the Court of Admiralty against the vessel and goods, and the parties interested
therein, as the case deserves. [I. 123, p. 40.] |
April 24.
Derby House. |
R. Coytmor, secretary to the Admiralty Committee, to the Navy
Commissioners. I am desired by Sir H. Vane to request you to
send in an estimate of the amount required for fitting out the St.
George, Unicorn, and Rainbow, for sea. Order has been given by
the Council for the Commissioners of Customs to provide letters of
credit for the two months' victuals at the several places the Generals
of the fleet desire. [I. 123, p. 39; Vol. I., No. 69.] |
| April 25. |
Order in Parliament that 3,000l. a year be settled upon the Duke
of Gloucester and the Lady Elizabeth, for their maintenance and
education. |
|
That their custody, maintenance, and education be committed to
Sir Edward Harrington, with whom the Council of State are to
confer thereon. |
| April 25. |
Order in Parliament—Alderman Wilson having reported from the
Council of State the forms of two stamps for coin—that the inscriptions to be put thereon shall be in English. |
|
That on one side shall be "The Commonwealth of England," with
the English arms, and on the other the arms of England and Ireland,
with the inscription "God with us" in English. |
|
That the same be made in crown gold and silver. |
|
That the Council of State perfect the business touching the several
sorts of coin in gold and silver. [I. 87, p. 46.] |
April 25.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Lord Mayor of London. The enclosed
petition and propositions by Capt. Fearmes tend to the setting on
work of many poor people, and promoting the trade of fishing,
which is of great concern, both for increase of capital stock and provision of victuals, thereby moderating the prices, which grow excessive. There being some stock required to carry on the work, we
desire you to propound it to the Common Council, and if it shall be
judged fit to be carried on, to give all the furtherance you can, the
rather that the poor may be provided for, in this time of great
necessity and dearth. [I. 94, p. 114.] |
April 25.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. By the enclosed, from
Mr. Cholmley of Carlisle, you will see the condition of the county
of Cumberland, made yet more miserable by pirates who, sheltering
themselves in the Isle of Man, infest those coasts, and hinder the
import of all relief to those starving parts. We recommend the
redress to you, and desire you to give order thereon to such ships of
the Irish squadron as you send upon those coasts. By the other
letter you have intelligence of the state of the isle of Scilly; do
therein as shall be best for the commonwealth. [I. 94, p. 115.] |
| April 25. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Order sent to Mr. Husbands for 200 copies of the last printed
Act for the encouragement of seamen. |
|
Reference to the collectors of prize goods of the petition of Helenor,
wife of Thos. Windell, against Capt. Robert Clarke. [I. 123,
p. 40.] |
| April 26. |
Order in Parliament that the Mint Committee consider of the list
of the officers for the Mint delivered in by the Attorney General,
and who are fit to continue in their offices, or to be displaced. |
| April 26. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State consider the indentures touching the Mint, and propose a master. [I. 87, pp. 46, 47.] |
| April 26. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. To ask the House to order an Act speedily, to supply the
defect of the constables' oath, and the manner of taking it. |
|
2. To ask the Dutch ambassador whether he will affirm that the
commission produced by the captain of the ship lately taken is the
only one by virtue of which he commanded that ship, when the
Council will send to the Generals to be informed of the state of fact;
and upon their report, will take care that justice is done. |
|
6. To write to Col. Horton and the other South Wales Commissioners to get in the other 10,000l., if possible, before the time
appointed. |
|
7. Sir Jas. Harrington to report the answer of Sir Edw. Harrington, as to keeping the late King's children. |
|
10. To report to the House that it will cost 24,000l. to set out
the three great ships, and as their speedy going is of great concernment, to desire that money may be provided. |
|
12. The business of the Warspite referred to the Admiralty
Committee. [Also I. 123, p. 42.] |
|
13. The Navy Committee to make speedy payment of the money
brought in by Capt. Rich upon a bill already made out, so that he
may be dispatched to do service in the packet boats between
Dublin and Holyhead. |
|
14. Capt. Stephen Rich's business referred to the Admiralty Committee. [Also I. 123, p. 42.] |
|
15. To report to the House that the three castles upon the shore
in Kent were much battered in the last summer's leaguer, and as
they are of much concernment to the safety of the navy and defence of the commonwealth, money ought to be provided for their
repair. |
|
17 a. The Militia Act to be considered. |
|
18. Capt. Penn's business to be again recommended to the Navy
Committee. [I. 26, pp. 226–230.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Francis Alleyn. We have received the enclosed concerning the 10,000l. that was to come out of South Wales,
and is now at Bristol, and wonder they should say they can have
no order for it, when the wagons have been long there to attend it.
As that business was committed to you by Parliament, and you
know also the necessity for the money here, we recommend it to you
to give it speedy dispatch. [I. 94, p. 116.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Messrs. Abraham Wogan, — Middleton,
Samuel Jones, and Thomas Ellis. We wonder there should be no
order left at Bristol for disposing of the money, as well as the
wagons to transport it. We have ordered Mr. Alleyn to give you
present directions. We desire you to get the other moiety of the
fine of South Wales ready with expedition. [I. 94, pp. 116, 117.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. We have not been advertised from the captain of the Hector of the matter of fact as to the
enclosed petition of the captain of the States of Holland's ship. We
desire you to examine into it, and certify us, that we may know what
answer to give; and also to order all the captains and commanders
of ships, upon the taking of any ships, to signify the same to us, that
we may know what answer to make to any that shall demand them
of us. [I. 94, p. 117; 62, p. 226.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Ordnance Officers. You are to send the
several kinds of ammunition mentioned in the enclosed list to
Portsmouth forthwith. Appoint a competent person to take charge
of the stores, until Newbury, who is to attend us in three weeks,
clears himself of the charges brought against him. [I. 123, p. 41.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Capt. Anthony Sharpe, commander of the
Star frigate. We desire you to convoy the Dragon, laden with
ammunition for the garrison at Newcastle; but in case the Star is
not ready, the commander of the first Parliament ship that the
Dragon shall meet, being of the Northern guard, is hereby required
to convoy her. [I. 123, p. 41.] |
April 26.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. The Swan and Truelove, which are in service on the coast of Ireland, are conceived fit
by the Navy Commissioners to be kept three months longer there,
and credit is to be given for 600l. for their pay and victualling.
You are therefore to order bills of credit for imprest thereof from
the Treasurer of the Navy to Capts. Robert Clarke and John
Sherwin. [I. 123, p. 41, bis.] |
| April 26. |
Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings. |
|
Reference to the Admiralty judges of the petition of Capt. Younge
and the company of the Dragon, about the prize Gift of God, of
Cork; the advocate and proctor to take care that there is no
delay. |
|
Order that Thos. Smith and John Hill, late collectors for prize
goods, bring in a list of all prize vessels and goods which came to
their hands; as also the reasons why they have not heretofore done
so, and paid the company of the Ann Percy their share, according
to the order of the Council of State. [I. 123, p. 42.] |
April 26.
Downs. |
70. Generals Robt. Blake and Rich. Deane to the Navy Commissioners. We arrived here last Tuesday, and the St. Andrew and
Victory came yesterday, but these three ships want many things
which were embarked in a hoy, and as the two ships are to go westward with the first wind, we desire you to hasten away the hoy, as
also the Hercules, which is of great concernment. We hope the
Phoenix and Tiger have received their victuals; if not let all expedition be used, as they could do much service if at sea, to the advance
of trade, and beating pirates and other men-of-war off the coasts;
also fail not to send down two standards and jacks for the Triumph,
and the others formerly written for; and hasten the fitting of the
Concord and Galliot hoy, and Dragon. [1 page.] |
| April 27. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The paper of wants from the Isle of Wight is to be sent to the
[ordnance ?] stores, and if they cannot furnish them, they are to certify
what they will cost, so that a report may be made to the House. |
|
2. The keeper of the Gatehouse to bring Major Tovey, prisoner
there, before the Council. |
|
3. Mr. Frost to guarantee to the keeper that he shall be forthcoming to answer the debt for which he is arrested. |
|
4. The paper given in by Sir Oliver Fleming referred to the
Committee for Foreign Alliances. [I. 62, pp. 232, 233.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Generals at Sea. We send you an extract
of a letter from captain [Reynolds] of the Crescent frigate to the Navy
Commissioners, that you may take care to prevent the transportation
of those men to Guernsey, or any attempts that may be made upon
it from Jersey or any other place. [I. 94, p. 118; 62, p. 228.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. Order was given
you long since to cause the Swiftsure to be brought into the Thames
and docked, so as to enable Mr. Burrell to make her fit for use,
but the ship is not yet come about, and the service may be much
prejudiced by the delay; you are to cause her to be brought in, and
certify the reason why our former commands were not obeyed.
[I. 94, p. 118; Vol. I. No. 71.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Mr. Strickland. There is a contract made
with Daniel Wybrantz, a merchant of Dublin, for cheese, biscuit,
salt, corn, &c., to be bought by him in Holland, for the use of our
forces in Ireland. We therefore recommend him, and desire you to
assist him, if needful. [I. 94, p. 119.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Reynolds. We are weekly informed
of the disorders of some of your troopers, who are still very
great burdens to the country where they lie, and swear they will
not go to Ireland, but rail at the Parliament, and show much
disaffection to it, and lie in and about Warwickshire, notwithstanding our express orders that they should march into Anglesey,
in order to their transportation to Ireland. We therefore hereby
again require that your regiment of horse do forthwith march into
Anglesey. [I. 94, pp. 119, 120.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Earl of Rutland. The desires made by
you, in consideration of the demolishing of Belvoir Castle, shall
be reported to Parliament, and you will be informed what they shall
think fit to be done therein. Meantime, take order that the castle
be demolished by 24 June next. [I. 94, p. 120.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Earl of Lincoln. A report has been made
to the Council by Sir Wm. Armyne, of your desire to have the
brick keep at Tattershall Castle left standing, the floors and roof
being taken away, and only the walls left. But as we have had
many experiences in the late war, of dangers by such like pieces,
we desire that the whole keep may be demolished forthwith. [I
94, p. 121.] |
April 27.
Derby House. |
Council of State to Col. Jones. 700 quarters of wheat have been
shipped on board the Providence of Yarmouth for Ireland; let her be
discharged of her burden, and come back with her convoy to Chester, for further service. With note of like letters to Sir Charles
Coote, respecting 580 quarters of wheat on board the Fellowship,
and to Col. Jones [Monk ?] respecting 400 quarters of wheat, 330
quarters of rye, and 18 barrels of powder, in the Eagle of Yarmouth.
[I. 94, p. 122.] |
| April 28. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Order that if the Fellowship of Yarmouth, laden with corn
for Londonderry, be taken by pirates in her passage between Dublin
and Londonderry, the Council shall pay 600l. to Mr. Cook, master. |
|
3. The petition of Chas. Whalley, of Chester, to be reported to the
House. |
|
4. The Governor of Guernsey's letter to be sent to the Generals
at sea, and they desired to furnish ammunition for defence of the
isle. Also a letter to be written to the people of Guernsey to pay
the debts laid on them, and not to be deluded by those who say they
are not to pay them. |
|
5. Sir John Bacchus summoned for Monday next. |
|
6. Sir Hardress Waller to order the informer against Bacchus to
attend. |
|
7. The draft of a bill prepared by Council for making saltpetre
to be reported to the House. |
|
8. The militia bill to be heard on Monday, and then the petitions
of Theod. Haak, Hen. Saunders, and John Waterton. |
|
9. Lieut.-Col. Wm. Piggott to have 200l part of his arrears, and
a pass for Munster, whither he is to be employed. [I. 62, pp. 234–
236.] |
| April 30. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The letter of Fras. Lindon, postmaster of Lichfield, to be sent
to the Lord General, that the evils mentioned may be prevented. |
|
1a. Lord Grey is to have power to write. |
|
2. Col. Rigby to go and speak with the Lord General about the
state of Lancashire. |
|
4. The Admiralty Committee to consider what punishment may
be inflicted upon runaway seamen, and those apprehended by Col.
Berkstead's regiment to be secured. |
|
5. The business of the Sta. Clara to be reheard Wednesday fortnight, when breviats and exhibits will be given. |
|
7. Order brought in from the Admiralty Committee to the old
collectors for prize goods, to pay the officers and men of the Hector
51l. 9s. 6d., their share for the prize mackarel dogger boat surprised
by them at Mount's Bay. |
|
9. To write the Navy Committee at the Treasury Chamber, to
enclose the letter from the Navy Commissioners concerning the
letters of credit for two months' victuals, for the generals at sea. |
|
11. Capt. Moysey to give in his information in writing against
John Dod. |
|
12. The information, with the forged commission found upon him,
to be reported to the House by Sir Jas. Harrington. [I. 62, pp. 237–
240.] |
April 30.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Lord General. By the enclosed letters
and petitions, presented by Alexander Rigby, a member of the
House, you will see the miserable condition of Lancashire, both by
those who live upon and waste the country without commission, and
those who take free quarter. We had formerly given order that the
men should be disbanded, but without effect. We recommend the
whole matter to you, and desire you to give effectual order for disbanding those men that are there without commission, seizing their
horses and arms, and securing their pretended officers, to answer for
their misdemeanors and oppression of the country. Also see that
those who are commissioned for service, either in England or Ireland,
do not take free quarter, which is a great pressure to the country,
and in this great and unusual dearth, tends to the famishing of many
poor people. [I. 94, p. 123.] |
April 30.
Derby House. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. There have already
been several prisoners taken at sea and brought into the ports, particularly at Plymouth, concerning whom the mayor has written for
directions how they are to be maintained until disposed of. They
should have the usual allowance, 8d. a day, paid out of such part of
the prize goods as are in the power of this Council to dispose of.
You are therefore to correspond with the Mayor of Plymouth, and
all others where such prisoners shall be brought in, and take care
that the allowance be made them, and we shall order the same to
be repaid out of the aforesaid moneys. [I. 94, p. 124.] |
| April 30. |
Order of the Admiralty Committee that the Navy Commissioners
certify what contract has been made with Capt. Rich, concerning
the maintenance of two packet boats to and from Dublin, and
what arrears are due to him for that service. [I. 123, p. 42; Vol. I.,
No. 72.] |
| April. |
73. Sir Oliver Fleming, Master of the Ceremonies, to the Council
of State. I want instructions in the place the commonwealth is
pleased to trust to me. I desire to know what titles I am to give
the Commonwealth and Council of State, in conversing with foreign
ministers and strangers of quality that come about business. It is
to be expected that we must wrestle with many difficulties incidental
to a new government, now established in a more just and equal
way; and that princes, looking upon their common interest, will
apprehend the prosperity of the commonwealth may prove an allurement to their people to shake off the yoke, (whereof there are some
symptoms in several parts) and to imitate so laudable an example.
It is also to be feared that other commonwealths will at first make
difficulty in giving those titles that this is obliged, in all justice
and honour, to hold forth to the world as its undoubted right, it
being well known that the kings of England had not these high
and great titles given them as particular men, but in relation to the
greatness and potency of the commonwealth, from whence all their
titles were derived; so that I conceive the title of "most excellent,
most high, most mighty," and such others as hold forth the supreme
authority of this nation, should be insisted upon, and no diminution allowed of honour due either to the commonwealth or to the
persons they dignify with public employments abroad, who should
have instructions given to them in these matters, as was formerly done. |
|
I shall not give reasons, but simply relate something of the
customs of foreign nations in these matters. I begin with the
Republic of Venice, as being for so many ages constant in the
observation of public civilities and customs, whereas other states
and courts have acted according to the pleasure of those that had
the government in their hands. The commonwealth of Venice,
assumes the title of Serenissimo Dominio, or Republica, and the title
given to their Doge is Serenita. To their great Council, which
consists of all the gentry (by them called Nobili) of the aristocratical families that are of age, they give the title of Eccelentissimi
or most excellent, and the same to the Pregadi, which is called the
Senate, as also to those senators that sit with the Duke, whom they
call Il Collegio, and this is the representative seigniory, where all
ambassadors, and other public ministers make their addresses, have
their audiences, and negociate their affairs. The Consiglio di Dieci
has likewise the same title given it, and is the supreme council in
all criminal affairs, and might be well called the Grand Inquisition
of State, having in a manner an unlimited power. |
|
The manner of receiving ambassadors is thus: they usually come
incognito, stay a few days to rest, and then give notice of their
arrival, going to some adjacent island, three or four miles off, whence
a number of senators, proportionable to the greatness of the State
and quality of the ambassador, fetch him with gondolas to his own
house, if an ordinary ambassador; but if an extraordinary, to a palace
prepared by the State, where officers, servants, and gondolas wait
upon him, at a cost of 700 or 800 ducats a day. The next morning
he is taken in state to his audience at the college, seated on the
Doge's right hand, and taken back in state. After that, he has
always audiences the day after he asks for them, but is attended
only by his own servants. Any Nobili or secretaries of state are
punished with death and confiscation if they have the least correspondence with foreign ambassadors, but their houses are sanctuaries
for criminals, except for state matters or crimes of great atrocity.
They may have bread and wine without excise, and have other
commodities. On departing, the extraordinaries have a gold chain
worth 2,000 ducats, and the ordinaries one worth 1,000; their secretaries chains of less value; and a piece of plate is given for any
special service. If they request the pardon of some banished person,
they are seldom refused, unless his crime be matter of state; and
some ambassadors have thus got large sums from a wealthy banished
person. At their departure, they are defrayed and complimented
by the governors of all towns under the dominions. |
|
The second commonwealth of Italy is Genoa, which likewise gives
the titles of Serenissimo and Serenita to the duke, and Eccelentissimi governatori della republica di Genova to their council; and
the little republic of Lucca has the title of Illustrissima given to
it by other states and princes. I shall not say anything of our
neighbours of the United Provinces, their titles, and the rank and
titles their ambassadors take being equal with the greatest princes
and states, and their reception and audiences, solemn and ordinary,
being sufficiently known. |
|
As concerning the States of the Empire in their several classes, as
the Prince Electors, and other Princes, the titles given to them
are to be found in the Paper Office, Whitehall, and with those who
had formerly the writing of credential letters, which titles vary
according to the language. With regard to the great and potent
commonwealth of Switzerland, the 13 cantons are so many distinct
little commonwealths incorporated into one, commonly called the
Helvetian body, or as they term it Eidtgenossen, which signifies
confederates. These have their ordinary and extraordinary meetings
at their diets, where all matters of state, peace and war, are transacted, and all ambassadors and residents appear to negociate their
master's affairs, as the Emperor's commissioner, the French ambassador, (very often, ordinary and extraordinary at once, and the latter
is commonly one of the most eminent men of France, who are
attended on by six or seven interpreters, kept constantly in that
country at great cost, and are the ambassadors' emissaries from
canton to canton, to insinuate with the leading men for the advantage of the French King's affairs); the Spanish ambassador,
(whose master is only a confederate to the five Romish, commonly
called the Little Cantons) the Pope's Nuncio, the Savoy ambassador,
the Swedish, Venetian, and German Princes' residents. The titles
that these princes afford this commonwealth somewhat differ, the
French King has a particular title, which is, "A Haut et Magnifiques
sieurs, nos bons Amis et Alliez," which is given to every canton
apart. The Nuncios, Spanish, Venetian, Savoy, and other Italian
ministers, give them "Illustrissimi e Potenti Signori," the Emperor
and other German princes, Sweden and Denmark, use the German
title of "noble, strenuous, right wise, and provident." Their own
people speak of or to them as gracious lords and superiors. They
differ from all other nations in intercourse with public ministers of
state and princes, tying themselves to no constant custom or rule,
but vary their public civilities, as their present affections and public
interest seem to require, holding it base to dissemble with any for
reason of state; and when they conceive themselves wronged, they
resent it with manly language, and require satisfaction, wherewith
the emperors and kings of France and Spain are well acquainted. |
|
When an ambassador arrives, if they are pleased with him, and
the State he represents, he is met by seven or eight chief senators,
with gold chains, on horseback, with 200 or 300 horsemen, many
officers and trumpeters, &c., in livery, a mile from the town. On
meeting the ambassador, they alight and shake hands all round.
The eldest senator then makes a long oration in his own language
(they holding it dishonourable to use any other) which being
interpreted, the ambassador makes another, "full of insinuating
expressions." They then march to the city, where 2,000 or 3,000
men meet them, and he is taken to his house or inn; all the cannon
on the walls are fired, the musketeers fire three volleys of shot before
his house, and the senators then take leave, but are invited to sup
with him, "which causes aching heads next morning to those that
are not used to such cup skirmishes." Next day, some of their
officers in livery present the ambassador with a tun of wine, a cart
load of oats, great tubs full of live fish, and sometimes venison.
During residence the ambassadors have to keep a great table, entertaining those whom they invite, or who come of good will; and on
affairs of great business, as raising men, making up differences,
renewing leagues, &c., there are great feasts, which, "with secret
bribes, render the amity of that people very dispendious." |
|
The Romish cantons permit their people to take pensions of
princes and states, but amongst the Protestant cantons, it is death
for any man to be known to take a pension from any state or prince.
The cantons in general receive annuities from several princes and
states, as from the French King, which they call Friedgelt or peace
money, although the French ordinarily call it a pension. |
|
The House of Austria is obliged to send a purse of gold on Midsummer day in every year, to the general diet of the cantons, in
recognition of the hereditary alliance they hold with the Swiss; and
the King of Spain does the like for the protection of Burgundy.
The state of Venice pays to the cantons of Zurich and Berne eight
million ducats yearly, and in time of war, so much a month; that
state having a particular confederacy with the two greatest cantons.
When ambassadors leave, they have the same military civilities as at
their coming, but no presents are given to any; and although they
are more frequented with public ministers than any other nation or
state, they never send any from them to reside anywhere, but upon
some important occasion; and their ambassadors return as soon as
their business is done, and are magnificently defrayed by those they
are sent to, who therefore use all diligence in dispatching their
business. The manner used in the German emperor, Christian King,
and other lesser princes' courts, is the same that was used here
during the regal government. |
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I beg leave to suggest here, as concerning my place:— |
|
That you should think of the manner in which extraordinary and
ordinary ambassadors, and other inferior public ministers shall be
received; how far the master of the ceremonies is to meet an extraordinary ambassador on his arrival, and what ceremonies and
civilities are to be used when they are brought to the House, for
their first and last audiences; whether the ambassador's chair shall
be set in the same place it was during the late troubles, when they
looked upon the Parliament as subject to another power. |
|
That when audience is granted, the hour be punctually observed,
according to constant custom, and some withdrawing-rooms be
furnished for him to repose in, until the House or Council of State
thinks fit for him to be introduced. |
|
Whether the commonwealth will not think it necessary for him
to give in his propositions both in English and in the same language
they were uttered, and the like in all negociations with the Council
of State. |
|
That a fit house may be appointed for lodging extraordinary ambassadors, and directions given as to their daily allowance, and for
how long; what presents are to be given, and whether they are to
sit or stand, and be covered or uncovered, on their first and last
audiences. |
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That before the wardrobe stuff be put up for sale, a sufficient
proportion of hangings and other furniture be kept for this use,
and that there be a rich coach of state, with the arms of the commonwealth, to bring ambassadors to their state audiences, and
another coach of less value to attend them while entertained, and to
bring lesser public ministers to their first audiences; the coachmen
and postillions to be in the commonwealth's livery. |
|
That two barges may be had, one of state and rich, with arms and
other ornaments, and a second, for more ordinary occasions, the
bargemasters and watermen also to wear livery. |
|
What persons or officers of state may be visited by ambassadors
and other lesser public ministers, and return visits, and whether,
in these reciprocal visits, they shall propound any matters of state
to be communicated to the House or Council of State. |
|
Whether disaffected persons are to be permitted to frequent their
houses. |
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Whether any officers are to be permitted to offer their service and
stipulate capitulations with foreign ministers, before they acquaint
the state therewith, and obtain license so to do; and whether it will
be safe to transact any important business with those public ministers who now reside here, in regard they negociate as yet upon
their former credentials, which do not assert the supreme authority
to be in the Parliament; lest upon advantage, their masters may
pretend such negociations to be invalid. [Copy, 15 pages.] |
