Volume 11: October 1650

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1650. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1876.

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'Volume 11: October 1650', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1650, (London, 1876) pp. 365-409. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1650/pp365-409 [accessed 23 April 2024]

October 1650

Oct. 1. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. To write the Militia Commissioners for county Northampton, enclosing copy of the letter from the Commissioners for co. Lincoln for their opinion, before Council gives any decision thereon.
2. To refer the Sequestration Commissioners to the Council's former letter, in reply to theirs, it being grounded upon information that the peace of the country was concerned therein.
3. The petition of the Merchant Adventurers' Company, and the papers relating thereto, to be considered on Wednesday week.
4. Sir Hen. Vane to acquaint the House with the letter he received from Col. Popham.
5. Mr. Frost to discharge Jas. Grayle of Coventry, and give him 40s. to return home.
6. Col. Christ. Whichcot, Governor of Windsor, Sir John Thorowgood of Billingbeare, and Mr. Day of Windsor, added to the Militia Commissioners for county Berks.
7. William Crompton, mayor of Chester, Thos. Aldersey, alderman and justice of the peace, John Whittel and Hugh Leigh, aldermen, Thos. Ashton, Samuel Buck, Capt. W. Wright, and Capt. Jonathan Ridge to be Militia Commissioners for the city and county of Chester.
8. The collectors for prize goods to make sale of the French ships, as well as of the oil and fish taken in them, for which they formerly had a warrant.
9. The petition of Marie Fletcher, widow, referred to the AttorneyGeneral.
10. The papers concerning Sylvanus Hide referred to the Admiralty Committee.
11. Sir Hen. Mildmay to send for Mr. Fauconbridge, and confer with him as to furnishing Hen. Stuart with money to go beyond seas.
12. The amount so to be furnished to be 750l., being half a year's allowance.
13. The letter and answer of Col. Thomas Eyre, captain of Hurst Castle, to the complaint of Capt. Jacob Huerbayd, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
14. Mr. Frost to confer with some Hamburg merchants as to furnishing money quarterly, by bills of exchange, to Hen. Stuart, at Heidelberg, and an account of the expense to be made to the Council quarterly.
15. Sir Hen. Mildmay, Mr. Challoner, and Mr. Heveningham to consider what is fit to be done for sending Hen. Stuart, third son of the late King, to Heidelberg, and of all things necessary and incident thereto, and to report.
16. Serjeant Walter Morgan recommended to the surgeons at the Savoy, for the curing of his wounds received in Ireland in the service, as also to the treasurers at Ely House for a pension while under cure. [I. 10, pp. 72–74.]
Oct. 1.
Harwich.		 39. Capt. John Hunter to John Watson, at the two White Lions, Tower Street. Notwithstanding the committee of this county [Essex] have had an account of the 360 arms sent by you to this garrison, yet I will give you full satisfaction. Capt. Alex. Barrington, who commanded a company here, was upon our disbanding taken into the State's army that went for Ireland, and was supplied with 100. Capt. Thos. Wolfe, who likewise commanded a company, upon being disbanded, delivered in 88 muskets, 65 pairs of bandoleers, and 45 belts into the magazine. These arms, with those of my company, lay here until Capt. Arthur Young, of Col. Berkstead's regiment, came to take charge of this town and garrison, when he received an order from the Ordnance Committee in the Tower, and from his colonel, to take charge of all the ammunition and arms in the town, which I delivered to him accordingly, and sent his receipt to the said committee. Capt. Young, with his company, removed from hence five months since, and they are now a guard at the Tower, and Capt. Robert Scrap having succeeded him here, I presume he delivered up all those arms to him; but in what condition they are now, or whether any or all of them were sent to London I cannot state, nor why the county's arms might not have been in my keeping as well as in any other man's; but there was great distaste taken because I made some scruple to deliver them, before acquainting the committee with the business. Since writing the above, Capt. Scrap informs me that he sent 132 of the muskets to London, according to order; there is an error in your statement that you sent 300, as I had but 60 for my company, and Captains Barrington and Wolfe 100 a piece. [2 pages.]
Oct. 2. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
3. The Ordnance Committee to order two block carriages for the two guns to be sent to Scotland.
4. To write the Navy Commissioners to provide four ketches, with three or four guns a-piece, for the Frith of Leith, and stout and faithful men to command them.
5. The warrant of the Lord General to Col. Hughson to be sent by the Irish Committee.
6. The Irish Committee to take care to make provision for the army in Scotland, especially in bread, as also how a magazine may be made for Scotland, and how a provision of clothes, &c., desired by the Lord General's letter, may be dispatched away to them.
7. The army treasurers to attend the Irish Committee to-morrow at 7 a.m.
8. The Irish Committee to consider with the said treasurers how money may be sent to the army, and when it will be ready.
9. The Lord General's letter of the 25th ult., concerning the army officers in Scotland being indemnified, to be reported to Parliament by Mr. Bond.
10. The desire of Major Husband for backs, breasts, and potts, for two troops of his regiment, referred to the Ordnance Committee that they may be furnished.
11. The Ordnance Committee to furnish Capt. Sexby with a wagon and horses, to enable him to march to the north.
12. To write the Lord Mayor, acknowledging the receipt of the informations against Everauld, and that Council apprehend his miscarriages and evil expressions may arise from some distemper in his head, which if his lordship finds to be so, he is then to be sent to the place whither persons under such distempers are usually sent; but if he be a counterfeit, he is to be sent to Bridewell.
13. The business relating to Portugal to be the first considered next Saturday.
14. The Committee which meets with the [Army] officers to consider how the horse forces raised by the Militia Act may be employed with the most service and safety of the commonwealth. [I. 10, pp. 74–6.]
Oct. 3. Order in Parliament that the letter to Parliament delivered to Mr. Speaker, with the paper enclosed, be referred to the Council of State. [I. 88, p. 45.]
Oct. 3. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The letters and papers from the resident at Hamburg referred to the committee to which that business was formerly referred, to prepare an answer to be sent to the senate there; Viscount Lisle added to the committee.
2. Elinor Brabbins prisoner in Newgate, to be bailed, upon security to return two months after her delivery of her child, and to do nothing prejudicial to the State.
4. The committee formerly appointed for the business of Guernsey to hear the report of the commissioners sent thither and returned, and report the whole business to Council to-morrow fortnight.
8. Lord Comr. Whitelock, Mr. Scott, Sir Henry Mildmay, and Mr. Challoner to mediate the differences at Wickham about the choice of their magistrates, that the peace of the place may be preserved.
9. Mr. Fitz Williams on his petition to be one of the persons to attend Henry Stuart on his journey.
10. The Admiralty Committee to order a ship to attend at the Isle of Wight, for transporting Henry Stuart and his retinue.
11. Half a year's allowance to be advanced to Henry Stuart, in consideration of his going abroad, but not to be applied towards defraying any charge during his stay with Capt. Mildmay.
12. The Committee appointed to send away Henry Stuart to appoint such as they approve of to receive the money allowed to him, and to be accountable for it. [I. 10, pp. 76–8.]
Oct. 3. [Irish Committee. Day's proceedings.]
That order should be given by the Council of State to the customs' officers at London, to permit the Blessing of London, freighted for carrying arms, ammunition, and clothes, to Carrickfergus for the forces in Ulster, and some trunks, chests, &c. belonging to Col. Hill, to pass free of customs.
That as 500l. has been paid by the Lord Deputy's desire to Major Geo. Walters for carrying 500 foot recruits to Ireland, and 250l. is due to him for quarters, according to the terms of his security, he should give further security to pay to Jas. Powell, at Bristol, 30s. for every man wanting of the 500, and thereupon the remaining 250l. should be paid him. Also that Council should order Powell to assist him in providing shipping for his men at the usual rates, and should also order the county militias to assist in apprehending any runaways who have received impress money from him. [I. 10, pp. 80, 83–4.]
Oct. 3. Ordnance Committee. Day's Proceedings.
To report to the Council of State that 50 grenado shells, answerable to the great piece in Hull, should be forthwith sent to Leith and the officers in the Tower take care that they are sent away in the ship carrying the battering pieces; also such block carriages as they have fit for great ordnance.
Eight block carriages for great ordnance to be made with all expedition, and sent to Scotland.
Three marching carriages for three demi-cannons to be made, for two demi-cannon taken out of the fleet and one taken from Newcastle and now at Leith. Carriages to be made for the two cannon now in the Tower, the one weighing 79 and the other 43 cwt., according to dimensions to be given by Lieut.-Gen. Hammond.
One strong double block gun to be also made, and 80 strong harness for the great guns, with swifters and drag rope for each great gun, six pairs of spare shafts and 12 axletrees.
50 tons of match, 300 barrels of powder, and 300 barrels of musket shot, to be provided for the garrison and train in Scotland.
That the committee should be authorised to contract with John Brown, gun founder, for re-casting some unserviceable brass metal in the Tower into two mortar pieces, one whole cannon, two demicannon, and two culverins.
To request Parliament that Council may be empowered to dispose of all the timber upon the lands of delinquents, for repairing defective garrisons.
To write Capt. Harrison at Guernsey to seize such persons as he conceives have any designs against the peace of that place, and to secure them there, or send them over; as also to see that the magistrates put in execution the laws and orders made for the peace of that island. [I. 10, pp. 84–5, 87.]
That warrants be issued to John Jackson to pay out of the 50,000l. excise, numerous sums of which the following is an abstract:—
£ s. d.
For 433 barrels of gunpowder 1,991 16 0
For 4,547 matchlock muskets, 2,153 snaphanse muskets, and 1,625 pairs of pistols 5,581 3 0
For 180 halberts 36 0 0
For 2,200 backs, breasts, and pots 1,863 0 0
For 400 carbine belts and swivels 30 0 0
For wagons and tumbrils 251 10 0
For 100 ells of canvas 7 18 4
For shells, hampers, and for packing the arms to Newcastle 9 5 10
[I. 10, pp. 89–92.]
Oct. 4. Order in Parliament, that Richard Salwey, M.P., and Jno. Weaver be two of the commissioners to be sent to Ireland, and that the Council of State consider of a fit allowance to be made them, and out of what fund it shall be provided. [I. 88, p. 46.]
Oct. 4. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Dr. Walker to interpose on behalf of the State, for the stay of the Portugal prize brought into Plymouth, notwithstanding the plea of the Dutchmen for her release.
2. The Admiralty Judges and Dr. Walker to consider the Portugal business and report.
3. The Admiralty Judges and Dr. Walker to consider what has been done in the demands of Mr. Augier, respecting the wrongs done by the French upon the English, and the papers thereon to be sent them.
4. Order upon the report of the Admiralty Judges, and full debate of the business of the oyster fishing at Milton and Stroud, that the Admiralty Judges settle the business between the fishermen according to justice.
5. The committee for accounts at Worcester House to certify what money they have in hand, upon the discovery of public moneys concealed.
6. Mr. Gage to be required to leave this nation, in pursuance of the condition of his recognizance.
7. To write the Commissioners of Customs, approving their care for preventing the export of tobacco pipe [clay] and fuller's earth, and to desire them to increase the forfeiture thereon.
8. To write Sir Arthur Hesilrigge to furnish the four troops of Major Rippon's dragoons with money, to enable them to march to the service.
9. The Irish Committee to confer with the Treasurers-at-War, concerning advancing a month's pay to Capt. Bernard's troop, to enable them to march to the North.
10. Col. Harley's business to be considered next Monday.
11. Council to have notice to meet next Tuesday at 5 o'clock, in regard of its being post-day.
12. Rich. Sweet of Exeter, and Mr. Westlake added to the instructions for the militia commissioners for Exeter. [I. 11, pp. 1, 2.]
Oct. 4. [Irish Committee. Day's Proceedings.]
That for clothing Col. Sexby's regiment, 800 cassocks, 1,200 pairs of shoes, and 1,200 pairs of stockings are needful, cost 580l.; and that order ought to be given to contract for them, as also to the Treasurers-at-War to keep in their hands, out of the pay of the said regiment, 150l. each month for the first three months, and 130l. for the fourth month, until the 580l. has been defalked and paid.
Col. Thomas Herbert having requested to have the folio and quarto book of ordinances, and the book of Acts of the present Parliament, to take to Ireland for the use of the State, that order be given to Mr. Husbands, printer, to deliver him such books.
The stores at Dublin being utterly destitute of powder for the defence of that and other garrisons in Leinster, or for the supply of the forces lying before Tercroghan, the commissioners at Dublin, by their letter to Charles Walley, pressed that 20 barrels might be hastened thither, and Mr. Walley procured 12 barrels from Col. Birch, Governor of Liverpool, undertaking to pay 4l. 10s. a barrel; and as'Col. Birch now requires the powder, order should be given by the Council of State for sending him 12 barrels. [I. 11, pp. 3, 4.]
Oct. 4. Admiralty Committee to Capt. Keysar. As your testimony touching the two Lubec ships brought into the river will be very requisite, for better discovery of the truth of the matter charged against the commanders and owners, you are to be examined in the Admiralty Court touching that matter to-morrow. [I. 123, p. 485.]
Oct. 5. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. To write to Carteret, Governor of Jersey, acknowledging the receipt of his letter sent under cover to Monsieur Augier, and to say that the persons mentioned therein are to be proceeded against according to justice; and that if he presumes to retaliate upon any under his power, they will hang here as many of that party as they shall think fit, and himself likewise, as soon as he shall come within their power; also to let him know that Council did not think fit to trouble Parliament with such a piece of insolence as that of his letter, coming from so mean a conditioned person as himself.
2. The business of Portugal to be considered next Wednesday.
3. The letter to the Lord Deputy of Ireland to be signed and sent.
4. Capt. Bernard to have six weeks' pay.
5. The Revenue Committee to be desired to pay 7l. 10s. to Philip Starkey, cook, for the attendance of himself and women for six days in giving the entertainment to Mynheer Schaeph.
6. The petition of Mary Page referred to the Admiralty Committee.
8. To write the Lord General for a commission to Col. Geo. Crompton, to be Captain and Governor of Tilbury Fort, according to order of Parliament, and meantime Council will give him a commission to take the place into his charge.
10. Mr. Holland, Col. Hutchinson, and Mr. Scott, to consider the petition of Mrs. Beckwith, and examine her and Mr. Anlabie.
11. The Lord President, Mr. Scott, Col. Jones, and the rest of the committee for examinations to take care that the meeting of Popish priests at Count Egmont's is prevented, and that such as meet there are apprehended.
12. To report to Parliament that, for the better settling the peace of Wycombe, and promoting the Parliament's interest there, Stephen Bates, a discreet religious person, nominated by the well affected of that town, be appointed mayor for the year ensuing.
13. Lord Commissioner Whitelock to have power from Council to write a letter.
14. The committee formerly appointed for hearing the difference between Riddal and Woodcot to be revived, and they to further examine the business and report.
15. To write Col. Desborow that Council has received a desire from Sir Edw. Rodney for his liberty, and that if it will not be pre judicial to the peace of the country, he is to release him, on recognizances of 2,000l., with two sureties, not to do anything prejudicial to the peace of the commonwealth.
16. Order upon the petition of Lord Rich, that he enter into recognizances of 2,000l. with two sureties of 1,000l. each, to appear before Council when summoned, and not to do anything to the prejudice of the commonwealth; and upon the recognizances being certified by two justices of the peace, license will be granted for his repair to London, or to such other place as he shall be advised, for the sake of his estate or health.
17. The moneys to be paid upon the contracts with the Ordnance Committee, and for all other things that are to pass the Ordnance Office, to be paid to Major Harrison, and warrants issued to him to pay the particular sums to those who by contract are to receive them. [I. 11, pp. 7–9.]
Oct. 5.
Whitehall.		 40. Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. We have given order to the Ordnance Office for the guns and gunners' stores for the four ketches to be employed to the Frith, and approve of what you have done for the time of their employment; if there be further occasion for their service, they can be continued. As for what you write about victuals and stores to be sent to the ships at Lisbon, we expected that you, knowing all the ships and number of men, and the place where their service is to be performed, should have considered what is fit to be done, and certified us, as also what credit for further supplies, that we might have given order, for in these things we expect to have first particulars from you, who have experience.
For the East India's yard, although we do not know whether we shall have occasion to use it, yet you may appoint some one to survey it, and let us have your opinion concerning it. There are some ships ready to go to Scotland with provisions, for convoy of which we have no other ship but Capt. Hosier's, which is now coming in, he having finished the time of his contract. As he has but 12 days' provisions on board, we desire he may have sufficient for that service, and make himself ready to go along with those ships. [1 page.]
Oct. 5. Thomas Smyth, Robt. Dennis, Hen. West, Wm. Bunduk, and Thos. Scott to the Admiralty Committee. The owners of the Endeavour of London, 140 tons, require a warrant for 16 pieces of cast-iron ordnance, out of the stores in East Smithfield or elsewhere, for her better defence in her intended voyage, they putting in bond not to alienate them. [I. 123, pp. 487, 488.]
Oct. 5. Robert Coytmor to [the Navy Commissioners]. Capt. Wadsworth has informed the committee that divers of his ship's company incline to mutiny, and are refractory, and as the ship is ordered to convoy three or four ships bound for Bilboa, the committee have commanded me to acquaint you herewith, and to desire you to examine the captain and those of his company that he complains of, and if you find their carriage has been mutinous and disobedient, to commit them to prison until General Deane returns, when he will take further course with them, so that the ship may proceed on her voyage. [I. 123, p. 489.]
Oct. 5/15.
Brussels.		 41. Sir George Radcliffe to Secretary Nicholas, St. John's churchyard, Utrecht. The Duke [of York] came hither last Tuesday. I have many things to tell you which cannot be briefly written, nor without cipher. I am commanded to entreat your company, as most necessary, if not here, at least at Antwerp. You shall see sufficient ground for this desire, or else trust my judgment less. The same is entreated also from Lord Hopton, to whom I write to-night. The duke will not go to Holland, so that if you mean to give him a visit, it must be here. If I knew when you would be at Antwerp, I would wait upon you, but let it be as speedily as may be. My service to Lord Hopton. [½ page.]
Oct. 7. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. To answer to the petition of the Militia commissioners for Southwark, that Council leaves it to them to use what power they have for gaining possession of their Militia house, and in case they find themselves unable to gain it, Council will assist in that or any other thing whereby they may advance the work of the Militia.
2. All officers and others employed in lading provisions in the Thames for Scotland to be ordered to use diligence for their dispatch, the necessities of the army there requiring it, and not to forbear doing so to-morrow, being the day for solemn thanksgiving, in regard of the exigencies of the army.
3. The petition of Sir Gerard Lowther, Sir Robert Meredith, Sir Paul Davis, and Sir James Barry referred to the Irish Committee.
4. The petition of Sir Antonio Fernandez Caravagall referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to take up the matter when they consider the seizure here of the Portuguese goods by Nich. Gold.
5. The two letters of Sir Thos. Bendish referred to the Admiralty Committee.
10. The letter from Sir Arthur Heselrigge referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to examine Capt. Coppin as to his miscarriage, when he comes to town.
11. The account of moneys received by Sir Arth. Hesilrigge from the treasurers-at-war referred to the Irish Committee, who are to speak with the treasurers, and adjust the difference between them.
12. The letter from Col. Hueson from Ireland, referred to the Irish Committee.
13. The Ordnance Committee to consider as to completing the train of artillery in Scotland, and to confer with Lieut.-Gen. Hammond, who is to attend them to-morrow.
14. The Irish Committee to consider as to providing a magazine of victuals for the use of the army in Scotland.
15. The treasurers-at-war to attend the Irish Committee tomorrow.
16. The Committee of Council that meets with the army officers to consider what use is to be made of the Militia, especially as to keeping up the horse, and the officers to confer with the committee thereon next Wednesday.
17. The reports to be made by the Council of Trade, upon the reference made to them by Council, to be considered next Friday.
18. The business of allowances to the commissioners who are to go to Ireland to be considered next Wednesday.
19. Augustine Wingfield and Wm. Lane added to the Militia commissioners for Middlesex.
20. The two gentlemen offered as Militia commissioners for Devonshire to be added thereto.
21. The persons mentioned in a letter from the committee of Cornwall of 3 Oct. as restrained by their order, to be so continued until further order; for those who lived in the county and departed out of it, refusing to act, Council will report to Parliament.
22. Such as have not acted in the Militia for the county to be put out of the commission [of peace].
23. The letter from the Militia commissioners for county Northampton referred to the committee which meets with the officers of the army.
25. To send Monsr. Augier to Dr. Exton. [I. 11, pp. 10–13.]
Oct. 7. Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings.
The judges' report concerning Mr. Mayne being read, the petitioner was referred to the Council of State.
Order that Mr. Thurlow be heard on behalf of the Lord General's interest in the Gabriel alias Raphael, the first Thursday in next term.
Order—on request of the merchants trading to Hamburg for a better convoy, in regard of the pirates who lie in wait for their ships on the coast—that the Ann and Joyce and the Mary go with them to Hamburg, and bring them back, instead of the Recovery, as formerly ordered. [I. 123, pp. 489–491.]
Oct. 7. Admiralty Committee to the Navy Commissioners. Upon hearing some difference between Capt. Gilson, commander, and Robert Thorpe, master of the Swiftsure, the latter requested to be discharged, and to receive the pay due to him. We desire you to pay him off, and his two servants, and seriously and speedily consider of a religious and able man to be master, and certify his name to us, that the ship may not be retarded in her intended voyage for Lisbon. [I. 123, p. 490.]
Oct. 7. Admiralty Committee to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. We have considered the petition of Edm. Greene, master and part owner of the James, formerly called the Exchange of Ipswich, setting forth that two years since, the petitioner was robbed by pirates in Yarmouth roads of the said ship, which was carried to Kinsale, and if an order had not come for her employment in the service, he would have obtained an order from you for her restitution, as was granted to others in like cases; and further that the said ship has since been found unserviceable, and now remains in a perishable condition at Kinsale, to the great damage of the owners, many whereof are very poor widows; having been at great charges in soliciting for her already, she being old, spoiled of all her tackle, and of little value, he prays her restoration. We want your opinion whether the ship may not be restored to the owners, they paying salvage. [I. 123, pp. 492, 493.]
Oct. 7. Robt. Coytmor to Capt. Harrison. The Admiralty Committee have considered the shortness of your ship's provisions, and as she is not of the winter guard, you are to bring her into Chatham.
The Committee having received intelligence of three or four pirates off the North Foreland, desire you and the Ann and Joyce to look after and fight them, or chase them away. The Ann and Joyce is ordered to come into the river with the first opportunity; acquaint the captain thereof. [I. 123, p. 492.]
Oct. 8. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The Irish Committee also appointed a committee for the army, forces, and affairs of Scotland, in like manner as they are for Ireland.
2. To inform the commissioners for the Militia of Oxford, in answer to their letters as to the clause of balancing debts against the fortunes of men chargeable with horse, that the Act for the Militia, charging men of 200l. a year and upwards proportionably, allows no defalcation in respect of debts; so that they are not to deduct in that respect, but proceed to the augmentation of the charge of horse upon such persons so indebted, their debts notwithstanding.
5. A bonfire of faggots to be made before Whitehall, and 40s. bestowed upon the guard.
6. Mr. Challoner to move the House to consider the Act presented by Council for repairing the highways in East Smithfield, the Tower, &c.
7. Col. John Jones to move the House to pass the Act sent by Council for inhibiting commerce with Scotland. [I. 11, p. 14.]
Oct. 9. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The business concerning Lieut.-Gen. Hammond referred to the Ordnance Committee, who are to acquaint him with the LordGeneral's desire concerning him, and to dispatch him away.
3. The Irish Committee to consider the Lord General's proposition for transporting some of the Scotch prisoners into Ireland.
4. To write the Militia Commissioners for county Oxford to furnish a troop of 80 horse for service in Scotland, and to select them from such of the militia in that county as they think fit.
5. The Lord President added to the committee which meets with the officers of the Army, who are to consider the proposition and papers which his Lordship shall offer, concerning a business of importance.
6. The Admiralty judges to attend Council next Friday, with their report concerning the French business.
7. The petition of Edmond Fawle, native of Jersey, referred to the Admiralty Committee, and, if they find what is therein alleged to be true, they are to discharge him.
8. Guerdon, a Scot, to have a month to remove from the Isle of Wight, and to remain in any other part of England he thinks fit until further order, he signifying the place he makes choice of, and entering into recognizances for his good behaviour.
9. Mr. Strickland to have license to transport two English horses.
10. To report to the House that Col. Jones, Mr. Salwey, and Mr. Weaver, commissioners going to Ireland, should be allowed 1,000l. each a year, for so long as they shall stay there, and have 1,000l. advanced to them of the 3,000l. to prepare for their journey, and that they pay themselves the residue out of the revenue there as it shall come in.
11. To write Capt. Mildmay to send to Council an inventory of the jewels that were in the possession of the Lady Elizabeth at the time of her death, and to see that they are secured until further order.
12. To report to the House that Council conceive Lieut.-Gen. Ludlow should have 600l. advanced to prepare for his journey; but in regard of his other commands there, which he has by authority of Parliament, they leave it to the pleasure of the House.
13. The petition of Robert Drinkwater referred to the Admiralty Committee.
14. The petition of Philip de Gruchy referred to the Admiralty judges, who are to report what can be done in his case, admitting that what is alleged by him be true.
15. To write the Militia Commissioners for Coventry that Council is much dissatisfied with Burgoyne's escape, and particularly as the gaoler who suffered him to escape is not proceeded against; and to desire them to re-examine the business and the informer, and commit the gaoler, until he gives good bail to appear at the next assizes for trial, and to bind over the prosecutor and witnesses to appear and prosecute, and to return an account to Council.
16. To write Hen. Brooke and Thos. Marburie, justices of peace for Cheshire, to issue warrants for apprehension of Mr. Vernon of Haslington, and secure him until he enters into recognizances of 2,000l., with two good sureties, not to act anything to the prejudice of the commonwealth, and to appear before Council within 20 days after summons.
17. To write Sir Geo. Booth, thanking him for his good affection showed to the public, and desiring him to take the recognizances of his son Col. John Booth, and to admonish him as to his peaceable carriage for the future.
18. Order, upon the information and examinations touching Col. John Booth of Cheshire, that he enter into his recognizances not to do anything to the prejudice of the Parliament or present government, and to appear before Council when summoned. The taking of such recognizance to be referred to Sir Geo. Booth, Bart., who is to make a return thereof to Council, and upon the taking of the said recognizance, the Colonel is to be discharged of all arrests or trouble upon pretence of any order from Council, and his horses and arms to be re-delivered to him.
19. Order recalling two warrants of 17 Sept. [see Warrant Tables, Oct. 5] for payment of 237l. 2s. 6d. to Erasmus Smith, and of 348l. 2s. 6d. to Col. John Owen, from the last two months' pay for the army in Scotland, those moneys being all paid out, and assigning the same on the moneys for the fifth month's pay of the army in Scotland. [I. 11, pp. 15–19.]
Oct. 9.
Whitehall.		 42. Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The frequent coming in of the ships of the summer guard to be paid off, and the hastening forth of the winter guard with the ships ordered for Lisbon will require your more frequent meeting; Council therefore requires you to meet oftener than usual, until the winter guard and the ships bound for Lisbon be fitted forth to sea, and to employ your utmost diligence for their hastening. In case you meet with any obstruction, you are to acquaint Council, who will endeavour to remove it. [¾ page. Also I. 123, p. 495.]
Oct. 9. Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings.
Order, on the information given in by Mr. Bence, of the retaking of the Hopeful Reformation by Capt. Thomson of the Mayflower, from a Jersey man-of-war, and her bringing into Harwich, that the collectors for prize goods send to Harwich to have the ship brought into the Thames until further orders.
Order that the desire of Wm. Pestill, late assistant master in the Resolution, for employment, be had in remembrance.
Order referring to the Navy Commissioners the consideration of the further charge accruing by the ship Sovereign, as presented in the petition of Capt. Thos. Taylor, gunner thereof, as also how that and other ships may be made more serviceable, or kept with lesser charge.
The petition of Antonio Fernandez Caravagall, concerning some Portuguese goods seized here by Nich. Gold, referred to this Committee by the Council of State, to be heard next Friday, and notice given to Mr. Gold and Mr. Hide to be present, and bring their witnesses. [I. 123, pp. 493–4.]
Oct. 10. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Col. Morley, Viscount Lisle, Col. Hutchinson, and Mr. Challoner to be a committee to consider the returns made concerning Tutbury race, and the offers for buying the same.
2. The Treasurers-at-War to meet the Irish Committee to-morrow at 7 a.m., and not to fail, it being about business of special and present concernment.
3. To write Daniel Blagrave and the governor of Wallingford Castle, as to the information given concerning the miscarriage of a minister at Reading, to examine both sides, and return the examinations.
4. Mr. Martin to confer with Major-General Harrison as to putting the list of men from Reading into some way of service, and report thereon.
5. To write Col. Bennett and the rest of the Commissioners for Cornwall, enclosing the petition of Wm. Godolphin, and asking whether his desires may not be granted, if they have no other matter against him than what is known to Council.
6. Sir Hen. Carey to have a pass to come to London and Westminster, to prosecute his law suits this term, and to abide there until the end of term, upon taking the engagement with the commissioners of the county, and giving security for his good behaviour.
8. The business concerning Major Harley to be considered next Tuesday.
9. The business concerning Mr. Woodcott and Mr. Riddall of Gravesend referred to Col. Crompton, and all the papers in that business to be sent to him.
10. The election of the new mayor of Gravesend recommended to the Indemnity Committee, who are to proceed therein according to the power given them, and Mr. Martin to take care of the business.
11. Rich. Manning's petition referred to the Irish Committee.
12. To write the governor of Dunkirk that some English are kept prisoners in Dunkirk, and hardly used, and to desire him to set them at liberty, otherwise we shall detain and similarly use such of the French nation as we shall take, or as shall come into our power.
13. The information concerning the lands of Chas. Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, referred to the Attorney-General, and the rest of the counsel for the State, who are to send for the informer and confer with him, and promise him some consideration for his pains, in case any advantage shall be made by his discovery.
14. Justice Manley to bail Wm. Butler, and bind over prosecutor and witnesses to prosecute him in the Upper Bench.
15. To write the Militia Commissioners for county Lincoln to speedily raise a regiment of 1,200 men, and march them to Scotland.
16. A similar letter to be sent to the Militia Commissioners for Yorkshire.
17. Mr. Browne, gunfounder, to be contracted with for casting 100 iron guns for garrisons, in lieu of the brass pieces now there, which may be drawn off for the use of the fleet. [I. 11, pp. 21–23.]
Oct. 10. Irish Committee. Day's Proceedings.
To report to Council that the Prosperous, John and Sarah, and Providence being laden with provisions to be sent to Leith for the army in Scotland, order should be given to the customs' officers at the port of London to suffer them to pass free of customs.
That a messenger of Council should be appointed to see that such ships fall down to their convoy, and lose no time in speeding away.
That the Adeline of Whitby, and the Francis and Mary of London, being laden with provisions on merchants' accounts for the Army, at the desire of the merchants, the convoy should be commanded to take them with the others, and not to put into any port by the way, unless upon absolute necessity. [I. 11, pp. 24–25.]
Oct. 11. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Sir Oliver Fleming to carry to Mynheer Schaeph two or three of the late Acts of Parliament prohibiting trade to Barbadoes.
2. Mr. Augier to deliver to the Admiralty judges a narrative of what he has done in demanding justice from the French for the wrongs and losses of the English by their depredations, and what answer they have given.
3. Dr. Walker to prepare an Act concerning the Portugal business, and therein to limit the uses of the goods taken, as to what proportion shall go to the State and the merchants, and what qualification shall entitle the merchants to receive any benefit by reprisals.
4. Two months' pay to be given to Capt. Roberts, to enable him and his assistants to go to the service of Guernsey, and a warrant to be issued to the Lieutenant of Ordnance to that purpose.
5. The Ordnance business to be considered to-morrow.
7. Mr. Scobell to be desired to send to Council the orders of Parliament forbidding commanders of ships in the service of the commonwealth taking any reward from merchants, for convoying their ships.
8. Mr. Frost to prepare a draft order to be published upon the Exchange, desiring all to come in who can prove anything so taken for convoy as aforesaid.
9. Mr. Challoner to report to the House that Council, on a report from the Council of Trade concerning a convoy to the Levant for preservation of trade, think a sufficient convoy very necessary, and desire Parliament to declare their pleasure concerning the charge, so that it may be put into speedy execution, as the season of the year and the nature of the business require.
10. Mr. Scott, Col. Ludlow, Col. Jones, and Sir Wm. Constable added to the committee for sending away the third son of the late King.
11. The Admiralty Committee to consider of some fit ships to be employed for securing the trade in English bottoms between Holland, Zealand, and Flanders, and for convoying ships from the Thames to those places.
12. The Council of Trade to further consider that part of their report concerning the lading of goods in the Thames in English and foreign bottoms equally.
13. To look out all the papers relating to the difference between Mr. Pyne and Mr. Ash, and send them to the Lord President and the commissioners for examinations.
14. Col. Rich. Shuttleworth to have liberty to come to town for the prosecution of some special affairs, upon entering into security in the country that he will present himself to Council within three days after his arrival, and will not do anything prejudicial to the commonwealth. [I. 11, pp. 26–29.]
Oct. 11. Report of the Admiralty Committee on the petition of Antonio Fernandez Caravagall referred to it by the Council of State. Upon reading the petition, Mr. Fernandez and Mr. Hide being present, and upon examination, Fernandez would give no positive answer whether the bayes in question were his own proper goods, and whether he did not declare that, in case it should be proved that any other had an interest in them, his whole estate should be liable to confiscation; but at last confessed that he bought them with his own money, upon his own account, and that he intended to send 38 pieces of the bayes to Francisco Botelio Chacone and Thome Botelio Silveria, in Portugal, but on account of the troubles there, they ordered him last June to forbear doing so, and to remit the money to Holland. This, with the affidavit annexed, is all his answer. The committee further asking him whether 38 pieces of the bayes in question were shipped; he answered, no; also whether he shipped any for Lisbon in the Brazil merchant, to which he replied that 40 pieces were consigned to the parties aforesaid, and that the 38 pieces were to be consigned to the same parties, had he not received orders to the contrary. The committee therefore think that the said bayes still remain under suspicion, and should not be delivered. [I. 123, p. 497.]
Oct. 11. 43. Drs. William Clarke, Jno. Exton, and Walter Walker, Admiralty judges, to the Council of State. Being commanded to deliver our opinion touching the Portugal business, we beg to represent that heretofore—upon reference from Parliament for us to consider how the commonwealth might be righted for the wrongs done by the King of Portugal, in protecting the revolted ships, and permitting Prince Rupert to commit those barbarous misdemeanors, hostile outrages, and treacherous acts against the English fleet in that King's port and territories, without administering that justice which the law of nations exacted from him, though often required in the name of the commonwealth, as well by their President as also by General Blake—we were required by Council to peruse the letters and returns transmitted and signed by the said President and General, and give our opinion as to what might justly be done by the law of nations in that case; which we did, and represented that the King was, by the law of nations, obliged to make satisfaction for those wrongs, and the damage sustained thereby; and that, as all fair courses had been observed for seeking redress in an amicable way, according to the forms of princes, and demands of justice had been made publico nomine and yet without effect, droit de Marque and reprisals might justly be granted against the ships and goods of the King of Portugal and his subjects, ad damni dati modum, et damnorum consequendorum causâ.
The Council having granted the same, divers ships have since been taken with goods belonging to the said King or his subjects, and have been brought into the Thames. Several English merchants and others now contend that amongst these, there are divers goods not belonging to the Portuguese but to them, and have come to the Admiralty Court to pray that the same may be restored; but as no order has been given by Parliament or Council to admit of the proceedings, nothing has been done by that Court.
We think the matter should be speedily put into a legal way, and proceedings had according to the rules of justice, for the following reasons:—
1. The nature of reprisals requires that whatever is taken be brought to open judgment in an Admiralty or legal court, and if that be omitted, though the first surprisal were legal, yet the disposal without judgment or order of court is not so.
2. All reprisals are grantable ad damni dati modum, and then cease when full satisfaction is made, and therefore it is necessary that whatever is surprised be inventoried and appraised, so that neither the Portuguese, for default thereof, have cause to complain that much was taken but little put to account, nor the commonwealth be defrauded of that which ought to have come to them.
3. That all coquets, writings, bills of lading, and papers may be preserved, for discovery of whatever goods or money belonged to the Portuguese, so that upon examination of witnesses, the whole may be brought to light, and not swallowed up or embezzled by others, under colour that they belong to them, when in truth they do not.
4. That the course of justice may be open to the English, to put in their claims for what they pretend to belong to them, and yet so as they may be enjoined to prove it to be bonâ fide and really theirs, and not belonging to any Portuguese, judgment going according to proof.
5. For avoiding scandal, the matter concerning a foreign nation, the reprisal ought to be proceeded with according to justice, so that it may not be said that it was a specious pretence, and goods made away with without any such proceedings or forms of justice, contrary to the custom and law of nations.
6. That as there is a daily charge and much damage to the goods, which would be saved if judgment was given, the matter should be put to open trial in the Admiralty Court, to receive public judgment according to the rules of justice and the law of nations. [2 pages.]
Oct 12. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The mortar pieces and shells formerly ordered for Guernsey, with the equipage and powder, to be sent to Scotland with Capt. Roberts.
2. The Ordnance Committee to contract for a mortar-piece of 18 inches in diameter, and for shells proportionably.
3. The ordnance officers to send for the mortar-piece at Chepstow, and if defective, to put it in condition for service.
4. Mr. Scott to report to the House the abuse which has been put upon the soldiers in Scotland, by the bakers sending corrupt bread to the army, and to desire their pleasure as to what punishment they will have inflicted for the offence.
5. The committee that confers with the army officers to consider what recruits are fit to be sent to Scotland, consulting with Col. Pride.
6. The Ordnance Committee to order 6,000 pickaxes, shovels, and spades to be sent to Scotland, as soon as they can be provided.
7. The ship in which the mortar-pieces and shells for Guernsey were laden to go with the convoy to Scotland, and the captain of the convoy to have notice accordingly.
8. The governor of Tilbury Fort to stay the ships bound for Guernsey until further order, if they come by him.
9. Capt. Roberts and his men to go on board the convoy, and victual with him during the voyage.
10. The Ordnance Committee to speedily provide the things ordered for Guernsey, and acquaint Capt. Clarke that it shall be done within six weeks.
11. The Ordnance Committee to inform the master of the ship which was bound for Guernsey that he shall be considered to his content for his going into Scotland.
13. To write the commissioners for Essex to pay the men of their militia, sent to Mersey Island by order of Council, out of the month's pay they were to raise for defraying the charge of their militia.
14. The business of the ordnance office to be considered next Monday.
15. The petition of Lieut.-Col. Joyce, and the bill of particulars annexed, referred to the Ordnance Committee.
16. Capt. John Hoskins and his ship the Convert added to the winter guard.
17. Mr. Carter, surveyor, to proceed with the building of the barge house, according to the form given in, and sell the old house to the best advantage.
18. The Lord President and Col. Jones to write Col. Duckenfield, and the rest of the Militia Commissioners for Chester, to examine the miscarriage of Mr. Knowles.
19. To add to the report concerning the Commissioners going to Ireland, that Parliament will give order that the time of their allowance of 1,000l. each a year may begin at Michaelmas, and that order may be given to the treasurers in Ireland to pay them quarterly, out of the public treasury there.
20. Col. Hill to be authorised to lend 10l. to Major-General Robert Monroe, prisoner in the Tower. [I. 11, pp. 28–33.]
Oct. 12. [Irish and Scotch Committee. Day's Proceedings.]
Sir Charles Coote's letters recommending Col. Robt. Sanderson to Council, for good services performed against the rebels in Ulster, in the late victory, being referred to this committee, Colonel Sanderson was desired to remain here for some time, which he has done, and now sues for license to go to Ireland, having subscribed the engagement. The Committee requests an order of Council for him to repair to Ireland, and an order to the Commissioners for compounding to give warrant to the treasurers at Goldsmith's Hall to pay him 50l. on account, out of the revenues of the lands settled upon trustees for Irish affairs, which Council are enabled to charge, by order of Parliament of 5 June 1650; and for Col. Sanderson to be declared to be in the same condition for Irish arrears with other men that have faithfully adhered to Parliament.
On reference of a letter from the Lord Deputy of Ireland, desiring that Capt. Henchman may raise and transport 500 men for recruiting Col. Hewson's regiment, as on a letter from Col. Hewson orders were issued that he should raise 300 men;—this committee now thinks fit that on the annexed conditions, he raise and transport 200 men more, to complete the 500 men, and have order for beating drums and raising them; that blank orders be given him, requiring the persons whose names he shall insert to follow his orders; and that order be sent to Mr. Walley, to fulfil the several particulars in such conditions mentioned, at the State's charge.
Upon an order of Council of 6 August 1650, approving a report made by this Committee, about sending officers presented by Major Shephard to Ireland, to supply vacancies there, as to their raising, marching, and transporting men to recruit the regiments wherein they are to serve, according to the desire of the Lord Deputy, this Committee requests an order of Council that Peter Flower, one of the officers,—with the approbation of Major-General Harrison and Col. Sanders, and on giving security for raising, marching, and paying quarters of 100 men, without taking free quarter, or committing disorder, and for transporting them to Ireland (shipping and victuals on board, being provided by the State), and for paying Jas. Powell at Bristol 25s. a man for so many of the said 100 men as shall be wanting;—may beat drums, and raise and transport the said 100 men, with allowance of 25s. a man, amounting to 125l.; also orders to the Treasurers-at-War to pay him 100l. thereof out of the moneys appointed to be sent to the Lord Deputy, for the pay of the forces in Munster, and to Jno. Jackson to pay him the other 5s. apiece, amounting to 25l.; also an order to James Powell at Bristol to provide shipping and victuals on ship board for the said men, at the State's charge.
Upon the petition of Lieut.-Col. Wetton, and the agreement with him by the Committee at Derby House, for transporting a regiment of 1,200 foot to Ulster, to be under the command of Col. Geo. Monk, and of the certificates and papers thereto annexed, referred by Council to this Committee, and of the disbursements payable from the State, and the deductions thereout for the State, the Committee find that the Lieut.-Colonel, in the time of distraction, when he was to raise the said regiment, was at extraordinary charge and trouble both to raise and keep the men together, and brought to the waterside 1,089 men, whereof 590 besides officers were shipped, and the rest lay ready to transport, but Col. Monk writing to forbear sending any more men over, unless Parliament sent means to maintain them, and the committee then seldom sitting, whereby no order could be given, they were dismissed, to prevent further charge. That for paying the quarters of the said 1,089 men, the State was to allow him 6d. a day each during their stay at the waterside, and the committee at Derby House were to give him warrants for what he so paid for their quarters. That for the quarters there is 963l. 13s. 6d. due to him; and that for the men he came short in raising, and for money paid in part to him for the quarters and other deductions, there is 663l. 13s. 6d. to be defalked, leaving 300l. due, for which order should be given by Council to the Commissioners for compounding, to issue warrant to the treasurers at Goldsmith's Hall for payment, and that his bond should be cancelled and delivered up to him.
The several officers hereafter named, presented by Major Shephard, and approved of by the colonels of the army, having received orders to raise, march, and transport to Ireland the number of men added to their names, and Major Shephard offering to prevent disorders, if he be empowered to command them in their march, and punish such as shall take free quarter or commit any disorders; the committee request that the Major be authorised to command them, and they required to obey him, until they be landed in Ireland, he having power to secure any that commit misdemeanor during their stay in England, and to send them in safe custody to the next garrison, there to be proceeded against, if at such garrison they have power of martial law to try them, or else detained until their offence be certified to Council, and further order given; and in all such cases, Major Shephard to give notice to the governors of the garrisons accordingly:—
Capt. Wm. Pelham is to raise and march 150 men.
Capt. Isaac Jackson " 150 "
Lieut. Edw. Shephard " 150 "
Lieut. Hen. Butt " 150 "
Capt. Peter Flower " 100 "
Besides Major Shephard's own company of firelocks, consisting of 120 "
[I. 11, pp. 33–39.]
Oct. 12/22.
Brussels.		 44. — Nicholson, alias Dean Stuart, to Secretary Nicholas. I presented your letter to His Highness, with all the advantage you enjoined me, and he rests satisfied with your answer; but I am sorry my Lord Gerard is not here, because I want his cipher, which I suppose you made use of, so that I do not understand some passages in your letter. My cipher with you is in a trunk that has not yet overtaken me, so I must desire you in future letters to write what you think may well pass without a cipher.
You may perhaps hear His Highness censured for leaving Paris as he did, but I doubt not you will think the best, and if I know the bottom of the business, it is not only defensible but commendable, and he is upon excellent principles, both in point of religion and in point of service to the King, his brother and sovereign, when occasion shall justly offer itself with such commission as is requisite. I dare not write what I would for want of a cipher.
Dr. Goffe has not yet come to us, nor do we hear of him but by you. I am still waiting on the Duke, and doing him all the service I can; but how long His Highness will require my service, or how long I shall be able to hold out in it, being wholly upon my own little purse, I know not. [1 page.]
Oct. 14. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Mr. Roswell, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to have liberty for three months, for recovery of his health, provided he does not reside at Chatham.
2. To write Lieut.-Col. Salmon at Hull, that Mr. Styles and Mr. Boatman, ministers of that town, have carried themselves very disobediently to Parliament, and he is to call them before him, and tender them the engagement, and if they refuse to take it, to require them to leave the town within 10 days, and not return nor reside in any garrison, without special license of Parliament or Council.
3. The account from Sir Arthur Hesilrigge referred to the Irish Committee.
4. Also the letter from the Lord Deputy of Ireland.
5. To write the mayor, aldermen, common council, and citizens of Chester that, in the election of their officers for the ensuing year, they are to have respect to the rules given in the Acts and ordinances of Parliament.
6. Col. Venables' letter from Carrickfergus referred to the Admiralty Committee.
7. To write Col. Duckenfield and the corporation of Chester that the Council formerly wrote the latter to return a list of persons who bear any office in their body contrary to Act of Parliament, but have not received any answer, and that they are to send one within — days without fail.
8. The business concerning the militia of Lincolnshire referred to the committee which meets with the army officers, who are to meet next Wednesday by 7 a.m., and Colonel Syler to attend.
9. Capt. Clarke's letter from Guernsey referred to the Ordnance Committee.
10. The relation of Col. Wauton, and the examinations taken by him concerning a conspiracy against some garrisons, referred to the Committee for Examinations.
11. Col. Wauton to offer the state of the militia in the eastern parts, and of the fortifications of Yarmouth, to the committee of officers, who are to consider and report therein.
12. Commissions to be granted to two such persons as Colonel Wauton shall name, to command the Huntingdonshire Militia.
13. The Admiralty Committee to consider what ships are fit to be sent to Guernsey, to secure it from attempts of the enemy.
14. The Ordnance Committee to take care that the proportion of provisions formerly shipped for Guernsey, and since sent to Scotland, be again provided and sent away to Guernsey, and that the mortar pieces be hastened after them.
15. The business of the Ordnance office referred to the committee which meets with the army officers.
16. To write Col. Gibbons acknowledging the receipt of his letter, and to say that if the persons imprisoned think fit to petition Council, they shall receive an answer, and to desire him to furnish a list of them and of their qualities.
18. To write the Militia Commissioners for co. Oxford to dispatch the 80 horse to Nottingham for Scotland, as the stay of the rest of the forces at the rendezvous for those horse will be very prejudicial.
19. To inform the mariners and company of the Good Reason that the matter of their petition is not cognizable by Council.
20. The petition of Roger Calcot referred to the Council of Trade.
21. The business of the revenue of Guernsey to be considered tomorrow. [I. 11, pp. 40–43.]
Oct. 14. Reference by the Admiralty Committee of the petition of Mary, widow of John Page, mariner, concerning the Hopeful of London being taken by a pirate in 1647 and carried to Jersey, and praying redress, according to the law of nations, against the French, to the Admiralty Judges, who are to certify whether letters of reprisal should be granted for the relief of the petitioner. [I. 123, pp. 499, 500.]
Oct. 14. 45. Order of the Ordnance Committee to report to Council their opinion that there ought to be allowed to Lieut.-Col. Geo. Joyce, for the garrisons of Weymouth and Portland, 400 muskets, 400 collars of bandoleers, 400 swords and belts, 20 barrels of powder, 40 demi-culverin shot, and 40 rounds of minion; 2 demi-culverin carriages, 2 sacker carriages, 2 minion carriages, 2 wheels for a demi-culverin carriage, 12 crows of iron, 1 double block ginne and rope, 20 brown bills, 20 snaphance muskets, and 100 timber trees out of the New Forest; and that 200l. should be imprested to Lieut.Col. Joyce for repairs, to make Portland Castle wind and watertight, and for buying ladles, sponges, &c., for his great guns. Noted, "the first 50,000l. of the 100,000l. upon the Excise; warrants made out upon this 17 October 1650, to the woodward of the New Forest." [1 page.]
Oct. 14. Robert Coytmor to [the Navy Commissioners]. The Admiralty Committee have perused your letter, and the certificate of Mr. Pett and Mr. Scott, concerning the Mathias of Lubec, and desire she may be lightened, and moored in some other place, as she lies in danger of the ships that pass up and down the river running foul of her. The ordnance officers write that they have no guns to supply the Triumph and Victory; the committee do not hold it necessary to send two second-rate ships, but the Adventure which came lately from thence, and for whose speedy fitting forth you lately received an order from the Council of State, may be one of the two, with one other second-rate ship that has guns in her. [I. 123, p. 499.]
Oct. 15. Council of State Day's Proceedings.
1. So much more money to be paid to Capt. Roberts as will make the former sum advanced to him 100l., and a warrant to be drawn to Mr. Jackson therefor.
3. To inform Col. Will. Herbert that Council cannot give him any of the employments desired in his petition, as the establishments for England and Ireland are full, and can be enlarged only by Parliament.
10. The Irish Committee to dispatch away the Blessing of London with all speed, that the convoy may not be detained for her.
11. Robert Harley to be bailed on security in 2,000l. for himself, and two sureties in 500l. each, to the governor of Bristol, to appear before Council when summoned, and to be of good behaviour, which being performed, he is to have the goods restored which were taken upon his apprehension.
12. Mr. Needham is to put in Latin the treatise he wrote, in answer to a Spanish piece written in defence of the murderers of Mr. Ascham.
13. To inform Joseph Brandon, on his petition, that Council leaves him to prosecute his business in the Admiralty Court.
14. To write the governor of Dunkirk that if he suffers any English, taken at sea by commission of the King of Scotland, and brought in thither, to be kept prisoners within his jurisdiction, Council will take it as done by himself, and retaliate upon those of his nation.
16. To acquaint Col. Sydney that Council have received some papers from Dover in which he is concerned, and have appointed next Saturday morning for reading them, when he is to be present.
17. To write the Militia Commissioners for Norfolk, to discharge Edmond Fawle, a poor native of Jersey, now prisoner in Norwich Castle, upon his taking the engagement.
19. To request Parliament that, as by an order of Council of 30 December 1645, a physician was allowed to the northern garrisons, and one has attended ever since, he may be added to the establishment for the army, and allowed 6s. 8d. a day, and the [Army] Committee be ordered to take care for the payment thereof, with arrears.
20. As the advocate appointed for the North is now ordered to reside constantly in those parts, it is desired that the advocate formerly appointed for the northern garrisons may now be ordered to attend the forces in the north, both in field and garrison, and be allowed for himself and clerk, 9s. 6d. a day, and that the Army Committee be ordered to take care for payment.
21. Major General Lambert, by advice of the Council of Officers of the Army, having given order for completing several companies in Bristol Castle and fort to 100 soldiers each, besides officers, and in order thereto, Capt. Beale's company, being but 80, having been made up 100, those 20 men are to be added to the establishment, and the Army Committee ordered to take care for their payment according to musters since 12 August last.
22. There being no provision made for fire and candles for the guard in Sandwich, it being omitted out of the former establishment, there is to be an allowance of 1s. 8d. a day for the guard there, and the Army Committee to take care for payment, from 17 June last, and also to pay 30l. disbursed by the inhabitants of the town, for that use before that time.
23, 26. On the report by the Committee for Examinations, touching John Dashwood and Robert Brookes his accuser, and the witnesses examined on both parts, Council sees no cause for further proceedings touching delinquency or malignancy against him, and therefore orders that he be dismissed, and discharged of further attendance. [I. 11, pp. 44–53.]
Oct. 15. Order in the Admiralty Committee that Col. Wauton report their opinion—on the petition of Peter Griell, master of a small fishing boat of Calais, taken by Capt. King, a private man-of-war, under letters of marque, notwithstanding he had Col. Deane's pass, which Col. Deane states he granted upon good grounds,—that the said boat should be discharged. [I. 123, pp. 502–3.]
Oct. 15. 46. Order of the Navy Committee that it be reported to Parliament as their opinion, that John Robinson, merchant, should have liberty till 20 January next, to compound at a third for all such real and personal estate of the late Archbishop of Canterbury, as he shall discover by that time. That this committee should have power to send for persons, papers, writings, records, and witnesses, and to examine on oath. That in case of nonpayment of such monies as shall be discovered, by the persons in whose hands the same shall appear to be, the Commissioners for compounding should, on certificate from this Committee, be authorised to sequester the estates of such persons until they pay, and that the money so arising should be paid by order from this committee, viz., one-third to the treasurer of the Navy, and two-thirds to John Robinson. [¾ page.]
[Oct. 15.] 47. Order [of the Navy Committee] that,—whereas by an order of Parliament of 28 August last, John Robinson, merchant, is admitted to compound for the real and personal estate of the late bishop of Canterbury not then under sequestration, and which should be discovered by him by the 20th inst., at the rate of ⅓ of the clear value, and that the persons in whose hands the estate is, if they discover the same within the time aforesaid, shall not receive prejudice for their former concealing thereof; and whereas Robinson has discovered to this committee that there are in the hands of Rich. Cobbe two specialities, one for payment of 2,050l., and the other for 4,000l., conditioned for payment thereof or the surrender of Barton manor belonging to the said bishop, which Cobbe has acknowledged, and is content to pay and secure to Robinson, and give him an allowance for forbearance thereof,—this committee accept the sum of 2,016l. 13s. 4d., in full of the composition due to Parliament for the said 6,050l. from the said John Robinson; and as soon as Cobbe shall have paid and secured to Robinson the 6,050l., they will declare his indemnity, according to the said order of Parliament, as to the said 6,050l. mentioned in the said two bonds. [Copy, ¾ page.]
Oct. 16. Order in Parliament that the Council of State take care that the 120,000l. to be borrowed upon the Act for sale of the manors of rectories, glebe lands, &c., be disposed of as follows: viz., 50,000l. for the army, and 50,000l. for the navy, proportionably as the same comes in, and the 20,000l. residue as they think fit, with regard to the payments ordered to the surveyors, and what is further due; and that they issue warrants and orders accordingly. [I. 88, p. 47.]
Oct. 16. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
2. The Act brought in by Dr. Walker, concerning Portuguese reprisals, to be read to-morrow.
3. The state of fact of the demand made in France by Monsieur Augier, for satisfaction for wrongs done to the English by the French, with the opinion of the Admiralty Judges thereupon, to be reported to Parliament.
4. Col. Temple to deliver to Col. Compton, by indenture, all the ordnance, arms, ammunition, &c., belonging to the forts of Tilbury and Gravesend, and take his receipt.
7. Mr. Holland to move Parliament to consider the Act for enabling the Committee of accounts to act more vigorously.
8. The business of Major Browne, Governor of Upnor, to be considered to-morrow.
9. To write the treasurers-at-war to pay Mr. Frost 3,000l., being the last of the 10,000l. formerly lent to them by Council.
10. The Governor of Windsor to join the Governor of Wallingford, and Daniel Blagrave, for considering a list of persons in Reading, who offer to serve the public.
11. Also to take the information of Fras. Ayling, against—Cooke alias Ayling, both of Bucklebury, county Berks, and commit Cooke, to be proceeded against next assizes, and bind over Ayling to prosecute him.
12. Sir Henry Vane and Mr. Holland to speak to-morrow morning with the treasurers-at-war, concerning providing pay for the men now at Guernsey.
13. Mr. Serjeant to make enquiry after the statue of the late King in Covent Garden, and that at Greenwich, both being cast in brass, and report in whose custody they now are.
14. The petition of John Washbourne, of Winchenford, county Worcester, to be granted, if upon inquiry, Lord Chief Baron Wylde conceive him fit to be suffered to come hither, and he likewise certifying what security Washbourne should put in.
15. Order upon the petition of Richard, Viscount Molincux, that he have liberty to send to the Isle of Man two persons approved by Col. Birch, Governor of Liverpool, to demand the answer of Mary Stanley, one of the daughters of the Earl of Derby, concerning her consent in a case of marriage in the petition mentioned, with which answer only they are to return, and to do no other business there.
16. Order upon the petition of Edw. Bushell, merchant, concerning some sugar which he has on board a ship at Plymouth, that he may proceed in the Admiralty Court with his claim, first acquainting the advocate of the commonwealth therewith.
17. To report to Parliament that information has been received from divers places, of the great disaffection of several ministers, and of their disobedience to the orders and Acts of Parliament, and disservice in stirring up the people against Government, and to desire the House to appoint fit remedies for prevention of that mischief. [I. 11, pp. 54–57.]
Oct. 16. Report in the Irish Committee that an agreement having been made with Thos. Laxton, apothecary, for 30 surgeons' chests for the army in Ireland, and medicaments for the hospitals, to be paid for within six months after delivery, Council should order John Jackson, treasurer, to pay him interest, after the six months are expired, for the sums of 450l. 15s., or 217l. 10s. 8d. due therefor, until the principal sums are satisfied. [I. 11, pp. 56–62.]
Oct. 16. 48. Miles Woodshawe to Lord Conway. Darby is certain your letter to Lady Carlisle was delivered to the carrier. The periwig maker still puts me off, pretending he cannot get hair of that colour, but has again promised it next week, and Mr. Allen has also promised you shall shortly have your dial. I will seek a chymist; I will enquire for one that may deal with you about the book, and will speak to Dr. Donne. I have had divers promises from Wilkinson of the tinder box, and offered him payment when it is done, and will pay Mr. Box his bill. Last week I was asked by a friend whether there was any breach between your Lordship and myself; and pressing to know the reason, he said he understood that you wrote to Mr. Conway that you would find out a way to ease yourself of the charge you were at with me. I am not conscious of anything done to incur your displeasure, and desire nothing more than to serve you, but Mr. Conway will put an end to my business, if you will refer it to him. Having pressed Mr. Box for his bill, I find it is dated three years since, and remember a year ago I paid him 50s.; I wish to know whether this was not on account of this bill, and have refrained from settling with him until I hear from you. [1¼ pages.]
Oct. 17. Order in Parliament that the Council of State, upon information given to Parliament of the neglect of divers ministers in the several counties, in the observation of the last day of thanksgiving, report to the House the names of the ministers most refractory or dangerous in disturbing the peace, or depraving the present Government, and their opinion what is fit to be done therein, that Parliament may consider a further order. [I. 88, p. 47.]
Oct. 17. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Lord Chief Justice St. John, Mr. Martin, Mr. Challoner, and Sir Hen. Mildmay to be a committee to consider the petition of Mr. Riley, concerning the settling the office of the Records, and to confer with Mr. Selden thereon.
2. Major General Harrison to pay the sums due for arms and ammunition delivered into the Tower, according to the debentures made out and passed here.
3. The Admiralty Committee to make strict enquiry into the business of the miscarriage of the ship Liberty, and report. [Also Vol. XI., No. 49.]
4. The letter to the Sequestration Commissioners concerning the business of the Sub-Commissioners for Somersetshire, to be sent.
5. Capt. Basket to attend to-morrow, to give an account of some matters which concern the State.
7. The petition of John Bex, Joshua Foote, and others referred to the Admiralty Judges, to grant commissions for private men of war to the masters of the ships mentioned therein.
8. Col. Alured's letter from Edinburgh referred to the Irish Committee.
9. The Irish and Scotch Committee to meet with the Committee which confers with the Army Officers to-morrow by 7 a.m., on a business which will be communicated to them by Sir Hen. Vane. [I. 11, pp. 65, 66.]
Oct. 17. Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings.
Order that the Navy Commissioners pay 74l. 8s. to Urbane Dammond and Fras. Chatteaper, Frenchmen, deducting it from the freight due for the Rebecca, whose company took and detained goods and money to that value from the said Frenchmen, contrary to this Committee's orders.
Order—on complaint of Capt. Gregory Butler, late commander of the Rebecca merchant ship, employed last summer in the service, that he cannot receive his pay without order from this Committee—that the Navy Commissioners pay the salary due, which is to be deducted out of the freight due to the merchants and owners of the ship. [I. 123, p. 503. Also Vol. XI., No. 50.]
Oct. 18. Order in Parliament that the Council of State consider the business of regulating the militia for the present ease of the nation, with reference to safety, and report to the House this day week. [I. 88, p. 48.]
Oct. 18. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The Admiralty Committee to consider the desire of Capt. Basket for a shallop to row with six or eight oars, with waste clothes, mast, sails, anchor, cable, colours, and three small brass pieces of 200 cwt. for his head and stern, to be provided at Portsmouth.
2. Capt. Mason to attend to-morrow at 9 a.m.
3. Capt. Basket to attend at the same hour.
7. The desires of Mynheer Schaeph, for the release of several Holland ships detained here, referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to give a speedy answer.
8. Mr. Challoner to report to Parliament that, in pursuance of their order referring it to Council to send Henry Stuart, third son of the late King, into parts beyond seas, they resolved to send him to Heidelberg; but considering the change of affairs in Scotland, it is now their opinion that Scotland is the most fit place for him, and that if Parliament approve, care will be taken for sending him thither.
9. The Admiralty Committee to confer with the Generals of the Fleet, as to appointing Capt. Hen. Appleton captain of the ship to be built at Woolwich.
10. The Admiralty Committee to consider what shall be done with the pickeroons taken prisoners at sea, whether English or foreigners, and advise with whom they think fit.
11. Sir Arthur Hesilrigge's letter from Newcastle referred to the committee for Scotch affairs, who are to prepare an answer.
12. The petition of the mariners taken with Capt. Greene, and detained prisoners in France, referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to do something for their relief, either by putting them into employment or otherwise.
13. The petition of Richard Wiltshire, with the letter therein mentioned, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
14. Thomas Ryvet, late Mayor of Lynn, added to the Militia Commissioners there.
15. The business of regulating the militia throughout the nation to be considered next Wednesday.
16. Capt. Yerburgh and Capt. Robt. Stone added to the Militia Commissioners for county Lincoln.
17. Col. Edw. Syler's paper concerning Capt. Welbie to be reported to Parliament by Sir Hen. Mildmay, and they moved to provide some effectual remedy against what is therein mentioned, Council having received several complaints concerning things of that nature.
18. Commission to be granted to Capt. Syler to raise and command a regiment of 1,200 men of the militia foot in Lincolnshire, to be employed in the northern service.
20. Also blank commissions for all his under officers.
21. To write the Militia Commissioners for county Lincoln to assist Col. Syler in raising and sending away his regiment of foot, and providing two months' pay out of the money they are authorised to raise by the Act for the militia.
22. All the forces formerly appointed to march into Scotland, and now upon their march, to be hastened by letters from Council, and an account required from the respective officers why their march is retarded.
23. Major Rippon's petition referred to the Irish Committee. [I. 11, pp. 67–70.]
Oct. 18. Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings.
Report on the petition of Sarah, widow of John King, late commander of the John Pink,—setting forth that her late husband took an Irish pirate who had done much mischief upon the English coast, and being appointed convoy to vessels from Lynn to London, he met with an Irish man-of-war, and after a sharp fight of three hours, was slain, and 14 of his men wounded, and the ship, in which he had a share as part owner, taken; and that she has two small children and is in a sad condition,—that she should be allowed 50l., to be paid by the collectors for prize goods, out of the tenths of prizes. [Also I. 123, p. 505.]
Like report upon the petition of Richard Smith, master of the said ship, stating that he has received many wounds in the said fight, that 10l. be allowed him out of the tenths of prizes. [Also I. 123, p. 505.]
Like report on the offer of Denis Gauden, for supply of the army in Scotland, to deliver at Leith 1,000 or 2,000 ferkins of good butter, either by contract with this Committee or upon his own adventure, at the market prices there, licence being given him to export it customs free;—that Council be requested to give a warrant to the officers of any ports where Gauden shall ship such butter, to license the export thereof, on security of his delivering the same at Leith. [I. 11, pp. 73, 74.]
51. Order that the Navy Commissioners examine the captain, officers and crew of the Liberty, touching the loss of the ship, that an account thereof may be given to Parliament. [½ page.]
52. Order that the Navy Commissioners contract with some careful and able man to provide victuals at Chester or Liverpool, for 200 men for six months, to furnish the ships employed upon the north coast of Ireland. [½ page. Also I. 123, p. 504.]
Oct. 18. Admiralty Committee to Mr. Pett. Order was given to Capt. Harrison to bring the Rainbow to Chatham, but we now think she should be brought into the Hope; send to the captain or master accordingly, and order some of the master shipwrights to go on board of her, and search what defects there are in her foremast, &c., and certify how soon she may be repaired and sent to sea. [I. 123, p. 504.]
Oct. 19. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. To write Col. Syler to hasten the march of his regiment [to Scotland], and to put such a deputy governor in Boston as he will be answerable for.
2. Order to be given to Col. Syler for furnishing him with such a waggon as was given to Col. Sexby.
3. The petition of the traders for butter and cheese in the city of London referred to the Admiralty Committee.
5. Col. Sydney to have a copy of the letter from Dover of 10th October last, and the two petitions from Sandwich and Dover and the additional articles, and to send an answer to them to Council before Saturday.
6. The business concerning the miscarriage of Ensign Mules at Sandwich referred to Major-General Harrison and the Council of officers, who are to examine it, and if they find cause, to remove him, and put some other fit person in his place.
7. To look out the petitions of some prisoners in Dorsetshire.
8. 12. To write the Militia Commissioners of Dorsetshire to take security from Wm. Constantine and Thos. Young, by recognizance in 1,000l. each, with two sureties of 500l. each, that they will be of good behaviour, and thereupon to take off their restraint, that they may come to London; Constantine to continue there all the next term, and Young for one month.
13. Mr. Bond to report to Parliament that Council—having considered the petition of Sir Gerard Lowther, Sir Robert Meredith, Sir Paul Davis, and Sir James Barry, stating that being commissioners and trustees of the ordinances for raising 50,000l. for Ireland, they daily met and faithfully laboured therein for two years and three months; that they have improved the estates in the ordinances mentioned, 2,600l. a year; that they presented a book thereof to Council, and another to the Commissioners at Goldsmiths' Hall, and that they desire recompense; also the petition of Sir Robert King and Wm. Hawkins, employed in the same service, the former until his going to Ireland, and the latter for two years and three months, for which they also desire recompense, the said petitions having been referred to a committee, and reported—think that in recompense of their labour, they should have 500l. apiece out of the said estates, and they desire Parliament to give order for payment, if they approve thereof. [I. 11, pp. 77–80.]
Oct. 19. Order of the Committee for Martial Affairs, that it be reported to Council that 1,200 foot, viz., 300 out of Col. Ingoldsby's regiment, 400 of Col. Wauton's, 300 of Col. Berkstead's, and 200 of Col. Gibbon's, should be drawn out and marched to Scotland, for recruit of the foot regiments, and that Major-General Harrison order their march, and that the same orders be settled concerning their pay and conduct money as were made concerning the former recruits, drawn out of the said regiments and sent into Scotland. [I. 11, p. 79.]
Oct. 19.
Brussels.		 53. Nicholson, alias Dean Stuart, to Sec. Nicolas. I find you do not come to the Duke of York for want of the King's directions. Had we not presumed that you had those directions, I should not have written you to come. Now I will only repeat that the Duke's principles, both in religion and in duty to the King, are commendable. He meddles not with public business without express directions from His Majesty, and to that end is sending into Scotland; but your advice, owing to the trust placed in you by friends in England, would have been helpful, as to how he is to be supported, how his family is to be ordered, where he is to reside, &c. The King's directions by Lord Byron will give little light, as the case now stands. Byron is no longer his governor but his officer, the King having declared him to be sui juris; therefore he may choose his own attendants.
Oct. 21. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Mr. Frost to pay Col. Fox 30l. in regard of his present very necessitous condition, being ready to starve, and having arrears due which cannot yet be gotten for him.
2. The letter from the Militia Commissioners for Yorkshire of 17th October referred to the committee for Scottish affairs.
3. The letter from the same commissioners of 18th October, with the paper enclosed, to be reported to Parliament by Sir Hen. Mildmay.
4. To recommend the Admiralty Committee to confer with General Deane as to sending some ships into the Irish seas, for preventing the piracies of Bartlet in those parts.
5. Mr. Fogg to be required to leave the garrison of Liverpool within 10 days, and not return thither, or repair to any other garrison within this nation, until further order; Col. Birch to put this in execution, unless Fogg takes the engagement upon its being tendered to him.
6. To write the Militia Commissioners for counties Cumberland, Westmoreland, Lancaster, Notts, York, and Stafford, of the smallness of their forces, according to the list returned, and to desire them to fill them up according to the establishment.
7. The letter of W. J[ohnson] and W. E[mperor] of this date referred to the Admiralty Committee.
8. Major-General Skippon to attend Council next Wednesday.
9. To add to the letter for the Militia Commissioners for Staffordshire a notice of the weakness of their dragoon horses, as complained of by Col. Fitch, and to desire them to mount those which they shall send upon better horses.
10. The proposition of Capt. W. Lea, for raising a troop of horse for Scotland, referred to the committee which meets with the army officers.
11. The Lord Chief Baron having moved for the bail of Mr. Parker, a gentleman of Staffordshire prisoner at Stafford, he is to give bail in 1,000l. to appear at the next assizes.
12. The petitions of Richard Blake, gentleman, referred to Lord Chief Justice Rolle and Lord Chief Baron Wylde, who are to confer with him, and consider how his desire may be effected.
13. To inform Samuel Mayne that Council have read his petition, and the statement thereupon by the Admiralty Judges, and leave him to prosecute his case according to law, wherein he may expect relief if his case be as represented. [I. 11, pp. 81–83.]
Oct. 22. 54. Report of Drs. William Clark and Jno. Exton, two of the Admiralty Judges, to the Council of State. By your order of 8th October 1651, our representation containing depositions concerning the nine English ships coming from Lisbon, and going to Brazil, was referred back to us, for our opinion whether there was not just cause of seizure, and whether the ships were not to be brought up to the Admiralty Court to be tried, without payment of freight.
We now find that the ships were taken to freight by the [King of?] Portugal to go to Brazil, and had taken in most of their lading before the Parliament fleet came before Lisbon, and before any of the abuses offered by Prince Rupert to the Parliament fleet in that port, or to their men on shore; and that after the said fleet came into the port, the ships could not have come out from Lisbon to have joined with them without danger, as they were under the command of divers forts and castles. The witnesses never heard any report that the King of Portugal or his ministers had any intent to employ any English ships which were freighted to go to Brazil, or upon any other merchandizing affairs, to assist Prince Rupert and the revolted fleet against the Parliament fleet; and believe the ships came from Lisbon, in company of some others bound for Brazil, with intention to sail thither, and deliver their lading for the use of the Portuguese that had freighted them; but upon their coming forth, they were seized by General Blake, and other commanders and mariners out of his fleet were put upon them. General Blake alleges that it was done for strengthening the fleet against Prince Rupert or the French, or any other power that might oppose him, and that the masters of the ships were dismissed from command or continuing on board, not on any particular charge, but upon prudent grounds, he not thinking it convenient for the service of the commonwealth or themselves, that they should remain on board their own vessels. This we conceive was a just cause of seizure or stay of the said vessels.
After this stay, order was brought to the fleet to surprise all Portuguese goods as prize, whereupon the lading of the said ships, being for the most part Portuguese, was seized, and then the ships likewise, to transport their ladings to the port of London, to be proceeded against as lawful prize, which was accordingly done, and the goods condemned; this seizure was also lawful. Notwithstanding these just causes of seizure, we conceive—and the Advocate for the commonwealth agrees thereto, in his report made to the Council of State—that the law allows hire to the owners of ships so impressed or employed, as well as if a particular contract had been made with the owners before. We find that, after stay of the ships and seizure of the goods, and not before, the King of Portugal and his ministers caused divers Englishmen well affected to Parliament to be imprisoned, and their goods to be seized. The nine ships were ships of more force than the ordinary Portuguese ships are; and it was believed that, if they had joined with the King of Portugal's ships, it would have prejudicial to the Parliament's fleet, and that so it would have been in case the said ships had proceeded to Brazil, and had, after delivery of their lading, been seized on by the Portuguese. This would have been a just cause of their seizure and stay, though there had been no order for seizure of their lading, yet this cause of seizure or stay does not bar them of their hire or freight.
If the nine ships had been employed by the masters and commanders against the Parliament fleet, or had been seized upon suspicion for so doing, and sent to the Admiralty Court to answer such charge, they could not have expected any freight or hire; or if any charge can be made against their commanders for disservice done to the commonwealth, there may be just cause to debar them of their freight. [2¼ pages.]
Oct. 23. Order in Parliament that the House agrees with the Council of State that 1,000l. a year each be allowed to Col. Jones, Mr. Salwey, and Mr. Weaver, for diet and charges, so long as they stay in Ireland, to commence from Michaelmas last; that 1,000l. thereof be presently advanced, and the rest paid to them in Ireland.
That 1,000l. be advanced to Lieut.-General Ludlow, for his service in Ireland, upon account, and that Council take care that such sums be paid. [I. 88, p. 48.]
Oct. 23. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
2. The like order to be given concerning Mr. Offley of Staffordshire, that was made in the case of Sir Robert Sherley and the other gentlemen of Staffordshire.
4. The petition of Capt. Robert Wyard referred to the Admiralty Committee.
5. Also the petition of the town of Yarmouth.
6. Also the petition of the ship's company of the Liberty.
7. The petition of John Daniel, merchant, referred to the Council of Trade.
8. The Admiralty Committee to examine whether the Scotch prisoners now come and coming into the river are carried to places where they may be made use of against the commonwealth, and stay to be made of all, until assurance be given of their not being carried where they may be dangerous; the proportion for New England to be shipped away forthwith, as their ship is ready, and the place is without danger.
10. To write Col. Heane to bring up Williams in safe custody with him, when he comes to Council.
11. The Admiralty Committee to take the state of the fleet before Lisbon from Col. Edw. Popham, and consider what is fit to be done.
12. Monsieur Beauvoir to attend Council to-morrow, and also the parties who have made articles against him.
13. Capt. Long, a militia captain of Wiltshire now in town, to appear before Council next Friday.
14. The petition of Lieut.-Col. W. Disney referred to the Irish Committee. [I. 11, pp. 84–86.]
Oct. 23. Report of the Irish Committee that—as Council appointed the treasurers-at-war to pay certain shipmasters at Newcastle for freight, on certificate from Col. Fenwick, governor of Berwick, of the delivery of their provisions at Berwick; and as four of them were ordered by the governor to carry their provisions to the Frith in Scotland, and an agreement made for their freight and demurrage by Col. Fenwick; and as Mr. Ledgard, who was appointed by the treasurers-at-war to pay them their freight at Newcastle, also paid them the sums agreed for carrying such provisions to the Frith,—a warrant should be given to the treasurers-at-war, dated 20 August, authorising payment of the said demurrage, amounting to 84l. 10s. [I. 11, pp. 89, 90.]
Oct. 23. Admiralty Committee. Day's Proceedings.
55. Order that after examination of the miscarriage of the Liberty, the Navy Commissioners give order for payment of such of the ship's company as shall not be found faulty, excepting the captain, master, and mates. [½ page.]
56. Order—on the petition of the mariners taken with Capt. Greene, and detained prisoners in St. Malo, referred to this committee by the Council of State, to do something for their relief, either by putting them into employment or otherwise,—that the Navy Commissioners examine whether the Welcome Pink, in which the said mariners pretend they were taken, was then employed in the service of the State, and whether the petitioners are the same men as were taken in the said ship; and if they are, then estimate what their wages will amount to, from the time the ship was surprised, until their release from prison. [¾ page.]
57. Order on the petition of Richard Wiltshire, that the Navy Commissioners consider how long the Jonas therein mentioned has served the State, and by what order, and what is fit to be done therein. [½ page.]
Oct. 25. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The Admiralty judges to prepare a commission for a private man-of-war, according to the petition of Capt. Isaac Phillips and Rich. Alford.
2. Capt. Long to attend Council to-morrow at 10 a.m.
5. The desire of the London militia, as to abating the number of their horse, to be considered next Monday.
6. Major Gen. Skippon and Alderman Pennington to be then present.
8. Order upon the application of Capt. Fry, on behalf of the militia for Dorset, to signify to the Commissioners of the said Militia, that the persons committed by them for preservation of the peace may be discharged, upon taking the engagement, and giving security for good behaviour, and appearance before Council when summoned.
9. Monsr. Beauvoir to attend to-morrow.
10. The Committee for Irish and Scotch Affairs to confer with the treasurers as to the state of the money upon the assessment for Ireland, and report.
11. The same committee to consider as to raising a troop of horse for Lieut.-Gen. Ludlow, and report with speed.
12. 20 marks to be allowed out of the tenths of prizes, for embalming the corpse of Lieut. Philip Ludlow, who was commanderin-chief of the Brazil ships lately sent from Lisbon, and died in the service. [I. 12, pp. 1, 2.]
Oct. 25. Order of the Admiralty Committee, on reference from the Council of State to consider what fleet is fit to be sent to Lisbon, that upon conference with the Navy Commissioners, they think the Fairfax, Swiftsure, Foresight, Pelican, Guinea, and Assistance, with 1,070 men, should be sent, each ship except the Swiftsure to have three months' provision; also that two merchant ships of 20 guns and 50 men apiece should be hired as victuallers, and have victuals for 600 men for six months at least, and that 1,000l. in Spanish money should be sent with the fleet, to defray exigencies. Also that the Navy Commissioners should prepare the necessary stores, and Capt. Wm. Penn be appointed commander-in-chief, and go in the Fairfax, and the Generals of the fleet grant him a commission; and as the Fairfax and Swiftsure have been six months out, they should have three months' pay before hand. [I. 12, p. 3.]
Oct. 26. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. To acquaint Sir Thos. Honeywood and Col. Cooke with the state of the poor in Bocking, and bid them look into the laws made for such purposes, and give them effectual relief.
2. To return an answer to the men of Bocking, with reference to their trade, that if they have any particulars to offer, there is a Council of trade appointed by Parliament, to whom they may apply.
3. Mr. Frost to pay 3l. to the person who brought the letters from Spain.
4. The proposals for more effectually carrying on the war in Scotland referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
5. Upon examining the charge formerly exhibited before a council of war, against Col. Sydney, Governor of Dover Castle, Council find that the whole matter has been before the Council of war, and Col. Sidney adjudged a fit person to be continued in his trust; therefore no further proceedings should be had therein.
6. Lieut.-Gen. Ludlow, Col. Hutchinson, Sir Wm. Constable, and Col. Wauton to be a committee to consider the additional articles exhibited against Col. Sydney, Governor of Dover Castle, and his answer; also to inquire by whom the paper of names, all written in one hand, was written and given in.
7. To see whether Woodman has had any commission for county Hants. Noted that he has not.
8. To write the town of Hull that their ministers are to depart according to order, and they are to let Council know whom they will pitch upon to supply their place, before they choose them; and that Council takes notice that, whilst they are interceding for such as disown the Government, they wholly neglect Mr. Shaw, a person well affected, who has preached there a year and a half without any pay.
9. Col. Wauton to pay to Col. Berkstead 40l., out of the 80l. advanced to him for carrying 400 men to Scotland, as he is sending but 200, and Col. Berkstead the other 200.
10. Gravesend Fort to be delivered to Col. Crompton.
11. Order to be given to the preservators of Dean Forest to provide 80 tons of timber for platforms for Gloucester.
12. Capt. Geo. Bishop appointed secretary to the Committee for examinations, at 200l. a year, besides which Council will consider him for his services according to their nature.
13. Col. Willoughby of Portsmouth to build a boat able to search ships in Portland Road, to be fitted with sails and oars.
14. To write Sir A[rthur] H[esillrigge] that during the absence of Col. Fitch, he take care to put such a person in charge at Carlisle as he will be answerable for. [I. 12, pp. 6–8.]
Oct. 26. 58. Order of the Admiralty Committee referring to the Navy Commissioners the petition of the company of the Liberty, for reparation for their losses, and conduct money to carry them home, some of them dwelling 200 miles off. [¾ page.]
Oct. 28. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. The letter to the mayor and aldermen of Hull to be fairly written and sent.
2. 30l. to be paid to Rich. Blake, for good services in discovering and bringing certain highway robbers to punishment.
3. The Ordnance Committee to examine the return from the Committee of the London Militia, as to the stores of ordnance and ammunition in their possession, and to send for and examine such persons as they think fit, and report the state of such provisions, and to whom they belong.
4. Mr. Holland to report to the House that there is 2,000l. in the receipt of the Committee of Accounts, which Council gave warrant for payment of, for the charge of the High Court of Justice, and for some other services, but which they have not paid, alleging they were not to pay without special order of Parliament, and to desire the House to give such order.
5. The business of the militia of London to be considered next Wednesday.
6. The petition of the master and owners of the Elizabeth referred to the Admiralty Committee.
7. The particulars of Lieut.-Col. Kelsey referred to the Ordnance Committee.
8. To write the Governor of the Isle of Wight to give all the assistance he can to persons commissioned by the owners of the Ulysses, cast away upon the island, to recover such goods as they shall find upon the place.
9. Sir H. Vane to report the Lord General's letter, with the declaration of the Commissioners for the Kirk enclosed, to the House.
10. To acquaint the Lord General with the arrival of Commissary Whalley, with his forces, at Carlisle, and likewise with the march of Col. Sexby's men, and the other forces towards Scotland.
11. To write the High Court of Justice to speedily proceed with the trial of Browne Bushell, &c., as likewise with the other five of the six appointed by the Act to be tried, for the retaliating of Mr. Aschams' death.
12. The business of the resort of persons to mass, at the house of Don Alonso de Cardenez, to be considered next Thursday; the two chief justices to attend.
13. To inform Lady Wotton, in answer to her petition, that her desire is not proper for Council, and that they leave her to gain redress in such way as the Militia Act has provided.
14. The Irish Committee to be authorised to receive, from the commissioners appointed to go to Ireland, such propositions as they shall bring in, for the better carrying on the service.
15. The Admiralty Committee to consider of some way for guarding the Essex and Kentish coasts, as also what course should be held with such as shall be taken committing robberies upon the coast.
16. To consider next Thursday how to dispose of the prisoners taken at sea, especially those of Portugal, and what use may be made of them for the release of English prisoners in Portugal.
17. The order formerly sent to the Inns of Court and Chancery, as to harbouring delinquents and malignants in those houses, to be again sent.
19. Col. Wauton to report to Parliament the examinations taken by the Navy Commissioners concerning the loss of the Liberty.
20. To write Col. Whalley that Council have conferred with the Treasurers, who have undertaken to transmit 10,000l. to them; that Council approves of his recommendation of the Lancashire regiment; that order has been sent to Sir Arthur Hesilrigge that according to what shall be thought fit upon the place, by intercourse with the Lord General, he is to order the march of such forces as shall come thither, as may be best for the service.
21. The account of Sir Arthur Hesilrigge from the Irish Committee to be also sent.
23. The Ordnance Committee to consider what is offered by Mr. Annesley, as to bringing the old armour from Greenwich to the Tower, to be made serviceable.
24. John Durie appointed library keeper of the books at St. James's, as also of the medals, and to have the lodgings belonging to that place, and to make an inventory of the books, medals, and MSS., and present it to Council.
25. To write the Navy Commissioners to set forth the Roebuck, now at Plymouth, as one of the Winter Guard.
26. To write the Navy Committee to pay 10l. a man to those who were taken with Capt. Greene, and have since suffered long imprisonment in France.
27. Col. Deane to provide two nimble ketches for guarding the Essex and Kentish coasts.
28. To write the Navy Committee to satisfy W. Hutchins, master of the William and John, for the prejudice done to his vessel, in weighing some of the Liberty's guns, as certified by Col. Deane.
38. Wm. Gardner, gunsmith, to go the Lord General in Scotland, and receive orders for gathering together all unserviceable arms belonging to the State, and bring them to London, to be fixed and delivered into the stores.
39. Capt. Wm. Roberts to have leave to put a deputy into his place of proof master, during his stay in Scotland in the service.
40. To write the Militia Commissioners of the Northern counties to apprehend persons who run away from their colours in Scotland, or upon their march thither, that they may be proceeded against according to the rules of war.
41. To write Sir Arthur Hesilrigge to keep constant correspondence with the Lord General and Col. Whalley, and upon advice from them, to issue such orders to the forces sent northward as may be most for the public advantage, in their march by way of Berwick and Carlisle, notwithstanding any former order of Council. [I. 12, pp. 8–17, 19.]
Oct. 28. Irish and Scotch Committee. Day's Proceedings.
Report that John Jackson, having been appointed by Council treasurer of the 150,000l. and 200,000l. ordinances upon the Excise, and having delivered to this Committee, for Council's satisfaction, the state of those treasuries, whereby his great pains and care in the management of that trust, and also his charge in keeping two tellers and two clerks for that service more fully appear, and as no allowance has been ordered him by Council for his pains and care in a year and three months' employment, Council should order him 400l. a year out of the receipts of the said ordinances.
The Lord Deputy having signified that the stores in Ireland are utterly destitute of arms whence to furnish the numbers of men being raised here for that service, or the 2,000 Scotch prisoners to be sent thither, order should be given by Council to the officers of the Tower, to deliver 3,400 muskets and 1,600 pikes to Commissary Wm. Dobbins, to be sent into Ireland next month, with the other provisions.
That warrants should be issued to John Jackson to pay Major General Harrison (fn. 1) for ordnance stores, of which the following is an abstract:—
£ s. d.
For 103 tons of match 2,479 0 0
" 124 barrels of powder, 870 matchlock, 442 snaphance muskets, and 265 pairs pistols 1,538 14 0
" 80 horses' harness 56 0 0
" casting two brass mortar pieces 69 13 10½
[I. 12, pp. 13–19.]
Oct. 29. Order in Parliament that the Council of State consider the letters of Nathaniel Barton and Sir Arthur Hesilrigge, and do what they shall find best. [I. 88, p. 49.]
Oct. 29. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Mr. Dury to be library keeper at St. James's House, and Col. Berkstead to appoint convenient lodgings for him.
2. The committee formerly appointed for the business of Guernsey to be revised, and desired to examine the charges against Monsr. Beauvoir, and report to Council to-morrow week. Also to send for those who prosecute, and for Monsr. Beauvoir.
3. To inform Monsr. Beauvoir that Council expects he will not go to Guernsey, until Parliament have declared their pleasure concerning the place of bailiff in that island.
4. Sir Hen. Vane and Col. Wauton added to the committee for Guernsey.
5. Sir Hen. Mildmay, Sir Hen. Vane, and Mr. Scott to speak with Col. Thomson and Mr. Snelling, about composing a difference between them and some other men of Southwark, concerning some preaching in the militia hall.
7. The Admiralty Committee to consider what is fit to be allowed the Portuguese prisoners brought home in the Satisfaction, and to what prison the pilot and Portuguese merchant should be committed, and send their names to Council, that a warrant may issue accordingly.
8. Mr. Scott to speak with Capt. Johnson, and give him satisfaction for the time he has spent here in the public service, not to exceed 40l. more than what he has already received.
9. The petition of James Coppin, commander of the Sea Flower, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
10. The proposition of Lieut. Dan. Sharpe and Edw. Bedwell referred to the Irish Committee.
11. To look for Mr. Dorislaus's petition. [I. 12, pp. 20, 21.]
Oct. 29. 59. Order of the Admiralty Committee, that the Navy Commissioners discharge the Great Lewes and the America, now in the Thames, the owners having informed the Committee that they are unfit for further service for the present. [½ page.]
Oct. 30. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Mr. Offley to enter into recognizance before a justice of the peace in the country, and his sureties here, and the justice to certify such recognizance to Council.
2. The desire of the company of the Liberty for payment of their conduct money referred to the Admiralty Committee.
3. Commissions to be issued to persons named by Major Evelyn, for command of the militia forces in Berkshire.
4. The letters from Col. Whalley and the Governor of Carlisle referred to the Committee for Irish and Scotch affairs.
6. The city troops raised for the militia to be reduced, until further order of Parliament or Council, to 60 in a troop, besides officers.
7. The said troops to be kept in the same manner as formerly, so as to be ready for service.
8. To write the Militia Commissioners for Northamptonshire, approving of what they have done in raising militia horse for their county, and to desire them to continue them upon the same terms as formerly, until further order, it being under consideration how those forces shall be disposed of.
9. Order upon the petition of Elizabeth Gostwick, one of the daughters of Dr. Dorislaus, that Council,—considering the nature of the cause to be proper for another cognizance, and wishing further relief to be given, in regard of the death of the petitioner's father in the service of the commonwealth, by reason whereof Parliament has already expressed a tender sense and care of the condition of his orphans,—recommends the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal to call the parties mentioned before them, and compose the differences with consent if they can; or otherwise to take such order for the petitioner's maintenance and relief as by law they are enabled to give, in cases of such extremity. [I. 12, pp. 22, 23.]
Oct. 31. Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
1. Order that the petition of Thomas Campbell will be further considered when he has taken the engagement.
2. Lieut. General Ludlow is to present another name to be captain of the horse in county Wilts, formerly commanded by Capt. Long, and the Militia Commissioners are to take in Capt. Long's commission within 14 days.
3. The petition of Antonio Fernandez, with the papers annexed, referred to the Admiralty Committee, as also the information concerning his sale of sugar belonging to some Portuguese, and a report of the matter, as also of that formerly referred to them, to be made on Saturday next.
4. The Admiralty Committee to consult with the Navy Committee about putting in execution the orders of Parliament of this date, concerning convoys.
7. The business concerning the sequestration of Somersetshire to be considered to-morrow.
8. The Commissioners for sequestrations in county Somerset to return to Council the examinations they received concerning Mr. Sampson, Mr. Shute, and Capt. Mason.
9. The bundle of papers concerning the Somersetshire business, and the copy of the last letter sent to the Commissioners for compositions from Council, to be made use of to-morrow.
10. The Irish Committee to consider where money can be had to supply the Commissioners going to Ireland, as also Lieut.-Gen. Ludlow, as referred to Council by order of Parliament, and report on Saturday.
11. The letter from Exeter, directed to Col. Harvey, and sent by him to Mr. Coytmor, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
12. Col. Martin and Lieut.-Gen. Ludlow to signify to the Earl of Arundel that it is necessary to make use of Arundel House in the Strand as a garrison, and that his Lordship shall have consideration for the use of it, and care shall be taken to preserve the house in as good condition as may be.
13. The Portuguese prisoners to be committed to the Marshalsea, and such as are not able to maintain themselves to have 4d. a day allowed out of the prize goods, and use to be made of these prisoners for the delivery of Mr. Vane's servants, now prisoners in Portugal.
14. The petition of James De Hem, merchant, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
15. The petition of Hum. Hill, Geo. Selby, and Geo. Pett, part owners of the Concord of London, to be sent to the Admiralty Judges, with order to give such letters of marque as Council are able to grant by the late Acts.
16. Capt. Thomas Cheyney to verify upon oath the matter of his petition.
17. The petition of Wm. Spencer, merchant, referred to the Committee for Irish and Scotch affairs.
18. Order upon the petition of James Wainwright and John Wickliffe, that licence be given for Andrew Broome, now in the Isle of Man, to come into Lancashire, to be examined by the Committee for Sequestrations, and continue there 10 days.
19. The Swiftsure, Foresight, Pelican, and Guinea frigates to be sent southward with all expedition, or such other ships as General Deane conceives may soonest be made ready, and with such instructions to the Commander-in-Chief as the Council of State shall think fit; Portsmouth to be the place of rendezvous whence they are to sail. Col. Deane to be desired to hasten down such ships, and as the Swiftsure and Fairfax have been out at sea six months already, three months' pay thereof to be paid to their company at Portsmouth.
20. The Admiralty Committee to prepare the before mentioned instructions, and see the said order put in execution.
21. To write the Navy Committee to provide 10,000l. in Spanish money, to be sent with the fleet going southward, and 400l. to be ready to go with the four ships that are first to go.
22. To write to take notice to the governors or viceroys of Galicia and Andalusia, of the favours and civilities that our ships have received in their ports, and desire them to continue the same.
23. The petition of Rich. Lovell and Jno. Griffith referred to Mr. Challoner and Mr. Scott, who are to order them fit allowance fit for their stay here, out of the 1,500l. assigned for the transportation of Hen. Stuart.
24. The petition of John Lazenby and others, as also of Roger Riley, referred to the Admiralty Committee, who, upon conference with the generals of the fleet, are to procure fit exchanges for the parties imprisoned.
26. 10l. to be paid to John Stone, who had his child wounded by the fall of a musket bullet in Whitechapel, upon a proof being made in the Old Artillery Ground in Shoreditch.
27. Fras. Underwood, Simon West, and Thos. Rivelt added to the Militia Commissioners for Lynn.
29. The governor of Liverpool to deliver 15 or 16 iron guns and ammunition needful to — Hoskins, he having to set out a ship for the service, such guns to be returned to the Ordnance office upon completion of the voyage. [I. 12, pp. 23–28.]
Oct. 31. [Irish and Scotch Committee. Day's Proceedings.]
Report to Council on the pressing exigencies of the forces in Ireland, requiring a timely supply of money as follows: That 70,000l. be ordered to be sent to Ireland with speed. That for 40,000l. thereof, warrant be given to the treasurers-at-war, to send that sum out of the remains due upon the 14 weeks' assignations ending last March, and the remainder of the three months' assessments ending last September, appointed for the service of Ireland. That for the other 30,000l., order be given to John Jackson to take it up at interest, on the credit of the 55,000l. appointed for pay of the forces in Ireland, out of the 200,000l. ordinance upon the excise, and to pay it to the treasurers-at-war.
That warrants be given to the said treasurers to ship the 70,000l. at such time, in such proportions, and at such port, and land the same, and also to issue it for pay of the forces there, according to directions from this committee. [I. 12, pp. 29–31.]
Oct. 31. 60. Order in Parliament that the Navy Committee provide a sufficient convoy for the ships now going to the Straits. [½ page.]
Oct. ? 61. Petition of Gerritt Van Liere, commander of the ship and goods of the Bishop of Zealand, taken near Guernsey by Capt. Gilson, in service of Parliament, to—. Was to deliver part of his lading at St. Malo, but being taken and brought into Portsmouth, is ordered by the Admiralty judges to deliver his French goods, viz., sugar, tobacco, and cotton-wool, to the collectors for prize goods. Begs leave to unlade a small parcel of elephants' tusks, paying custom, and to sell them, to pay his great charges, and enable him to return to the United Provinces. [2/3 page, damaged.] Annexing,
61. i. Decision in the Court of Admiralty on the said case. 11 October 1650. [Latin, 2½ pages, damaged.]
Oct. 62. Reply of Edmond Rozer and Emanuel Mire, on behalf of the clothiers, "to the staplers' plea, wherein they would seem to be beneficial to the clothiers and the commonwealth of England."
Oct. Staplers. There are long and short fleeces of wool, and some fleeces have wool both long and short, and therefore it should be sorted before passing into the hands of the clothiers.
Clothiers. There are clothiers of the old and new drapery, that use some long and some short wool for cloth making, and there needs no third party or ingrosser to help them in their trade. The several manufacturers can use it all, for they make several sorts of cloths and stuffs, some fine and some coarse, in which they spend and use all the wool they buy in the fleece.
Staplers. Plead the usefulness of sorting wool, fit for the clothier.
Clothiers. 1. The makers of cloth of the old and new drapery are the most fit to sort their wool, and not an ingrosser who does not know what belongs to wool, but only informs himself by the market how it goes with the clothier, and never buys but when he knows the clothier must use it.
Also the ingrossing stapler sells a great part of the wool he buys again in the fleece, and unsorted, and therefore he does not buy it to sort. The staplers' sorting of wool, which is their only plea for being useful, is the greatest mischief they can do; for in their sorting, they use deceit, and mix several countries' wool together, which we cannot so well discern as in the fleece. Several countries' wools have their several operations in working, and therefore we allow accordingly, to make good cloth, which we cannot do when we buy it sorted. The sorted wool we must sort over again before we can use it. They pretend to help both poor and rich clothiers, but they are prejudicial to both, as the rich clothiers can go to the growers, and buy their wool of them as well as the staplers, and give them as good a price as the ingrosser; if the clothier buys any wool of the sorter, it is because he is forestalled, and cannot have it at the market.
The staplers have undone many poor clothiers by selling them a dear and bad commodity; the poor clothier had better be a journeyman to him that buys his wool of the growers, than trade for himself by buying of the pretended sorters of wool.
Their special pretence is they are beneficial to the growers, but a few men's interest is not to be valued more than the nation's good.
The staplers' forestalling the market hinders the clothier from coming there, because the staplers know when the clothiers have a quick market, and must use their wool, and then the staplers get before them, and bid prices for very great quantities of wool, and give earnest for some; and when the clothiers come, the growers tell them they are bid so much by one that will sell it again to them, so the clothiers must give more, or else go home again without wool which they often do, and then the ingrossers have it at their own prices.
2. For the poorer sort of growers that are constrained to sell their wool at quarter day or for present money, the richer clothiers provide money, but the ingrossers lay hold of these growers before their wool be shorn, and do by them as they do by the poor clothiers, or as the bramble does by the sheep.
3. As the richer sort of growers will have their prices or keep their wool, neither stapler or clothier can buy but at their price; the stapler never buys any wool until he knows he can sell it again to the clothier, or transport it, so the growers do not gain by him.
4. The staplers pretend the growers are by statute constrained to sell their wools within 12 months after it is shorn, but we know of no such statute, nor do we desire it should be so, though the staplers may use it for their own profit.
They allege that the reason of the repeal of the statute of 5 & 6 Edw. 6., chap. 7, by 21 Jac., was upon complaint of the growers, because they could not sell their wools, the ingrossers being restrained; we can hardly believe this, for why do the staplers desire the suppressing of all other ingrossers but themselves? The reason, as we conceive, of the repeal of that statute was, that Parliament perceived there was a project propounded to give a dispensation to the staplers, whereby to make the King the sole merchant of wools. The statute of 5 & 6 Edw. 6 says that the plentitude of wools ought to cause the commodities of wool to be made cheap, so that the merchants might thrive in their trade, and the poor at home be maintained.
The staplers allege they are not the 50th part of the buyers of wool of this nation; we answer that one ingrossing stapler buys as much wool as 50 clothiers use, and thus a few do mischief enough. They also call themselves freemen of the staple, but very few of them use the trade of buying and selling wool, as many of the merchants and drapers, and their new mayor is a merchant, what can they do but ingross and join their money for that purpose ?
The ingrossing staplers, by their corporation, are the better enabled to ingross the greatest part of the wool of this nation, for they can agree together in a joint stock. They allege that some clothiers are ingrossers themselves; it is true, and many more will practise the same evil, if engrossing and ingrossers are not suppressed; they are constrained to do it, because they cannot live of their trade, by reason of so many ingrossers; and we all desire that all ingrossers be put down, and that none buy wool but those that make it into manufactures, and buy no more than they use.
Further they pretend the clothiers would make a monopoly of it; but how it can be called a monopoly, when so many thousands of manufacturers, living so far asunder over the whole nation, and of several arts and mysteries, buy only for their own use ? if there be a monopoly, it is more likely to be the staplers, because they combine their stocks, and still are offended that staplers, ingrossers, jobbers, and broggers should be put in one rank. We do not meddle with them as they are merchants of staple, or a corporation, but as they practise the said evil which their brethren the broggers and jobbers do, we would have them suppressed.
The staplers plead they shall lose their inheritance; but if his living be doing hurt, he had better lose than keep it, and take up some better course of life. They further allege that many countries and cities have no wool near, and therefore they are necessary. We answer no city or country desires any ingrosser or stapler, which they would if they were useful; and the several manufacturers often go 100 miles to buy their wools of the growers, and formerly the latter brought their wool to the market. Many clothiers have not the 10th part of their wool growing in their county, but must go 50 or 100 miles to buy their wool, as to Devon, Suffolk, Essex, &c., and when they have brought it home, they carry their cloth to market more than 100 miles distant.
Our conclusion therefore is; 1st. The woollen manufacturers buy and spend all the wool of England, and the Spanish and Irish, so that the grower may sell all, unlimited to price or time. 2nd. The woollen manufacturers use all the several sorts of wool, be it long or short, in the several sorts of their commodities. 3rd. We can divide and sort our wool ourselves better than any ingrosser, jobber, brogger or stapler. Lastly. We are the better enabled to employ the poor, who spend the money they earn to the benefit of the farmer, for corn, butter, and cheese, and thus enable him to pay his landlord. [1 sheet.]
Oct. ? 63. Miles Woodshawe to Lord Conway and Kilultagh, at Petworth. I received your letter by the Earl of Northumberland's man, and have dealt with Mr. Alkin as much as I can, but cannot prevail. I will try him once more, and if not successful, will employ Mr. Larkin, and give him what you mentioned. The house in Queen Street is let, and I have offered those things to Doll as they were appraised, but she will not give more than 4l., and says more than that is due to her; but only having your order to give them to her in part of 10l., I have refused her offer, until I hear your further pleasure. She is resolved to come to Petworth, unless you give me order to stop her.
As for your goods, the Colonel spoke to Mr. Shalmar for a place to put them, but he wanted 4l. a year for it, so I have got leave to let them stand in Queen Street, until I know your pleasure. I am about taking a room in Drury Lane for myself, which I can have, with an empty room for your goods, for 6l. a year; but if you please, I will remove your goods to Sion, and take a place only for myself. The Colonel is going into Warwickshire, and desires I may go with him, but I cannot without your leave. There is a young man recommended to me for your barber; let me know your pleasure. Being at Mr. Baldwin's, I found the dirty letter enclosed. I was with the Colonel to-day, who waited on my Lady Carlisle at Leicester House, before she went to Penshurst, this afternoon. [1 page.]
Oct. ? 64. Miles Woodshawe to [Lord Conway]. I have not waited on Colonel Cromwell this week, as he told me if anything was done in the business, he would send. I heartily wish Mr. Conway was here, because the business of the Billingties is like to go on, though I have used all means with Mr. Vyner to hinder the proceedings, and told him Mr. Conway would certainly be here. Mr. Curtis assured me that Mr. Couper intends to go to trial with you this term. I shall send Mr. Hearn his answer. It troubles me that Mr. Fremantle does not serve you as it becomes him. No one can yet tell where our fleet is at present. [1 page.]

Footnotes

  • 1. There is a warrant to Major Harrison in the table under this date for 4,186l. 17s. 10½d. which more than covers these accounts.—Ed.
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