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| April 1. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State proceed with the
examinations of Thos. Cooke, and give an account to the House
concerning him on Friday next, as also consider the business
concerning him. |
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Order that the Council of State give instructions to the Ambassadors now in Holland to demand of the States General of the
United Provinces, in the name of Parliament, upon what grounds
the fleet under Van Tromp is set forth in reference to the Isle of
Scilly, part of the territories of this commonwealth; and if they find
those grounds tending to the prejudice of this commonwealth in
honour or interest, that then they demand satisfaction for the same,
and a revocation of his commission in reference to that island. |
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That the Council take effectual care, as well by giving orders to
the fleet abroad as by making use of any other ships in the service,
and by any other way they think fit, to prevent any prejudice to
this commonwealth by the fleet under Van Tromp. [I. 89, pp.
21–22.] |
| April 1. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
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1. The petition and certificates of Major Wm. Ashton referred to
the Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to consider the discharge
of his recognizances, and the satisfying him the 50l. for not
receiving the bridles, saddles, and holsters out of the stores, and to
report with all speed, as the major is going over to Ireland, to attend
his charge there. |
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2. The letter of Lieut.-Col. Salmon from Hull referred to the
Admiralty Committee. |
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4. The order of Parliament concerning the Isle of Scilly referred
to the Committee which treats with the agent of Portugal, who are to
prepare such instructions for the Ambassadors now in Holland as
they shall think fit, as also an instruction to them to demand
satisfaction for the affront offered to them by Prince Palatine
Edward; the Committee to meet to-morrow at 8 a.m. in the Horse
Chamber, and advise with Dr. Walker upon the business referred
to them. |
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5. To send to Dr. Walker to attend the above Committee. |
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6. A paper to be sent to the agent of Portugal, that notwithstanding his last paper was fuller of expostulations than satisfaction,
yet Council have resolved to report the whole business of the treaty
between them and him to Parliament on Friday next, and that if
he will send anything further meantime, Council will receive it. |
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8. The Committee for Examinations to proceed to the further
examination of Thos. Cooke, either by going to him at the Tower,
or by sending for him to them, and report on Thursday next. |
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9. The letter of Capt. Phil Gethings referred to the Admiralty
Committee. |
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12. The letter of the Governor of Deal, of the 30th ult., referred to
the Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to consider the proportions
to be drawn out of the castles there and upon the Downs. |
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13. Lord Commissioner Whitelock to report to Parliament the
state of the treaty with the public Minister of Portugal. [I. 65,
pp. 196–199.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Desborow. On consideration of yours
concerning Van Tromp, we have ordered General Blake, with
such ships of his squadron as are with him, to sail to Scilly, and
there prosecute such instructions as we have given him, and we
have written Sir Geo. Ayscue to receive order from Col. Blake.
Although by the long delays of the ships with provisions, the thing
comes to be further noticed than we could wish, as it may come to
the knowledge of those in the island, yet we hope the same will
take good effect; we give you this notice that you may prosecute
the same with the greater care. [I. 96, p. 93.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Sir Geo. Ayscue. Upon information that
a fleet of ships under the command of Van Tromp is sailed
towards Scilly, and not knowing what he may attempt there, we
have thought fit that General Blake, with what ships of his squadron are with him, and the rest appointed to attend that place, sail
thither, and put in execution some instructions. We have sent to
him to continue there until that affair be done for which you are
instructed, and with which he was acquainted before he went hence,
whose order you are to follow in that service that is to be done at
Scilly, according to your instructions; when you find your business
there grow towards a conclusion, signify the same to Council,
that you may receive their order before you go off from the coast.
[I. 96, p. 93.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Capt. George Swanley, commander of the
Providence, now at Hull. We have seen your letter to Mr. Coytmor
concerning the storm you were in at sea. If upon search of the ship
that has the guns upon her, you find she can safely come with them
to this port, then let it be done with all expedition; but if she be
not fit to bring them, let the guns be put on shore, and you come
hither with your own ship, with all the speed you can, and bring
the prisoners you have on board with all care and safety to Council.
[I. 96, p. 94.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Governor of Deal Castle. By your letter
we find there is a mistake in the order sent you, and you have done
well to give us intimation thereof, and forbear to draw out your men.
We shall reconsider the thing, and you are not to draw out those
men, or any other for that service, until further order from us. [I. 96,
p. 94.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Blake. Parliament being informed that
Van Tromp, with a fleet of ships of the United Provinces, is sailed
towards the West, with some instructions concerning Scilly, conceiving the honour and interest of this commonwealth to be much
concerned therein,—we have passed the order of which we enclose
a copy, and desire you forthwith to sail, with such ships as you
have with you to Scilly, and there, with those appointed about that
place, and with those under Sir Geo. Ayscue, to put in execution the
instructions herewith sent. While you stay there, you are to send
some ship towards the Isle of Man, and those parts, to attend affairs
there until you can be at leisure for that service, and you are to
have a special care to send away Wiltshire with a convoy for Ireland, he having a great cargo on board for the summer's service
there, and that convoy may afterwards attend the coast of Ireland
and Isle of Man. [I. 96, p. 95.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Instructions to Col. Blake. 1. To the same effect as above. |
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2. You are to demand of Van Tromp for what purpose he has
come to Scilly, and what his intentions are; and if he has any intentions to do anything prejudicial to the honour or interest of the
commonwealth, you are to require him to desist, and if he persists,
to use the best ways and means you can to enforce him, and in all
things to preserve the honour and interest of this nation. And that
nothing may be done in our parts that may interrupt the good correspondency between the commonwealth and the United Provinces,
you are to signify to Van Tromp, that, by requiring him to desist,
it is not the intention of this commonwealth to protect those who
are now in possession of Scilly, in the wrongs they have done the
Dutch, or to hinder them from righting themselves upon them, so
that they act nothing to the prejudice of the commonwealth; but
shall be ready to give them all assistance therein, and expect the
like from them, in what you are there to execute. [I. 96, p. 95.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Cols. Birch and Duckenfield [Governors of
Chester and Liverpool]. The necessity of a speedy supply of 50 barrels
of powder, with bullet and match proportionable, for the forces in
Ulster, appears to us to be so great that we must desire you, upon
mutual advice concerning the stores in your respective garrisons,
immediately to make up between you the said proportion of ammunition, to be forthwith delivered to Mr. Walley, to be sent away by
him with the next opportunity of shipping to Ulster; and order will
be taken for the immediate sending down to you, without charge or
trouble, the like proportion of powder, together with directions to
Mr. Walley to buy in those parts and make good the like quantity
of match and bullet also, for renewing the stores. [I. 96, p. 96.] |
April 1.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. We suppose you may have
heard of the disaster that befel our forces at the storming of Guernsey Castle, which we have some ground to impute in a great measure
to the perfidy of some people in the island combining with the
enemy, who excited our party to storm on purpose that they might
be cut off, and thereby the island become a receptacle for the mischievous designs of the enemy. Upon consideration of all which we
have sent thither a further force, and assigned Col. Bingham to the
command as governor; and in regard we apprehend there will need
but one established field officer there, besides the colonel himself,
and he earnestly desires to have one with him well known to him,
and whom he can trust, we judge that Capt. Harrison, who now
commands there in chief, may be drawn from thence, and sent to
some other command; and understanding that, by the late dismissal
of Col. Cox, there is a field officer's place in that regiment vacant,
we suggest to you that Capt. Harrison, being the eldest captain of
that regiment, should have a field officer's place and a company reserved there for him in Scotland, which would in several respects
fitly answer the present occasion, if you see meet. [I. 96, p. 99.] |
| April 1. |
46. Indenture of assignment by Rich. Deacon, citizen and cloth
worker of London, to William Randall, citizen and cordwainer of
London, for 25l. of the residue of the term of a lease for 23 years,
granted 24 February, 11 Chas. I., by Wm. Swetman, merchant
tailor of London, to Geo. Whitening, servant to the late Lord Arundel,
of a tenement in Clerkenwell, co. Middlesex, rent 8l. a year. [1 sheet,
damaged.] |
| April 2. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
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1. Blank commissions to be given out to Major-Gen. Harrison,
for captains of horse and foot and a lieutenant of horse for militia
forces to be raised in co. Monmouth. |
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2. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider how the militia
in Kent and those parts may be ordered, so as to prevent any
danger that may come in those parts by the enemy; to meet tomorrow morning, and Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to attend. |
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3. The business of Kent to be considered to-morrow. |
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4. The Admiralty Committee to examine the complaint against
Capt. Vasey, commander of a ship in the Irish seas, concerning his
lying in harbour about Liverpool, and to take care that those seas
may be carefully guarded for the future. |
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5. The petition of John Gibbs referred to the Admiralty Committee to report. |
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6. The Committee of Examinations to proceed in the examination
of Joseph Ashe, and continue him in custody of the serjeant until
they have finished, and then bail him if they see cause. |
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8. To write Lieut.-Col. Underwood, deputy governor of Lynn, to
secure the stores of corn for supply of the army at indifferent rates,
to be paid by the State. [I. 65, pp. 201–202.] |
April 2.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. There are three
ships, the Phœnix, Elizabeth, and Dragon, now at Portsmouth,
whose going to sea with the greatest expedition is very necessary to
the public affairs, but they are retarded by the death of Col. Willoughby. We therefore desire you forthwith to appoint one of
yourselves to repair to Portsmouth, and dispatch them, and upon
the return of the person you send, we will take speedy order for
some person to supply Col. Willoughby's place. [I. 96, p. 97.] |
April 2.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Governor of the Isle of Wight. There are
some breaches in the fortifications of Carisbrook Castle which ought
to be repaired, and as the strength of that place is of special use for
the safety of that island, those reparations should be made by the
people there; we therefore authorise you to call them in to work for
repair of the said fortifications, and certify us thereon, that we may
know when it is in a posture of safety. [I. 96, p. 97.] |
April 2.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Revenue Committee. There is a defect of
water in Carisbrook Castle, and for want thereof, how well soever
fortified and furnished with other provisions, it is not in a condition
to be kept for any long time, if an enemy should attempt it. To provide against that defect, some cistern or pond should be made in the
castle, for receiving and preserving water, and 60l. employed for
that purpose, which we desire you to order to be paid to the governor. As there are other repairs wanting there and pressed for,
certify by whom the castle has been formerly repaired, that order
may be taken accordingly. [I. 96, p. 98.] |
April 2.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners, co. Oxford. We
well aprove your care of the public safety, and desire you to inform
us how the taking of the engagement has been hitherto managed,
and by whom, and you are hereby authorised and desired to tender
the same again to such as have not taken it, and to such as you
deem to be dangerous; if they refuse, you are to secure them, and
to certify the same, with the grounds of their refusal, to Council. |
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As for the inspection into the city and university of Oxford,
Council will consider of it when they are certified who were entrusted with the first tender of it there, and whether you were any
of the Commissioners for that purpose. As to easing well affected
persons whose horses are kept up in the county, and not sent into
Scotland, Council conceives that will be a matter fit for debate upon
the passing of a new Act for the militia. [I. 96, p. 98.] |
April 2.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. Upon consideration of
what has been propounded to Council by Sir Arthur Hesilrigge and
Mr. Scott, upon their return from you, and in several letters since
from the Major-General and Commissary-General Walley, concerning the making good to troops their horses lost in service,
Council conceive that, as billet money and additional pay are continued to them, and it was undertaken thereupon in behalf of the
soldiery that they should find themselves with horse and arms, it
may be of evil consequence if this should be brought into general
precedent; yet for so much as you stand engaged by any promise to
make good, they judge the best way to answer the same may be by
your immediate directions for so much as you shall find necessary
to be done in that kind, out of the contingent monies under your
disposal, and care shall be taken that the next proportion of money
to be sent to the army shall be enlarged to answer that emergency,
and the treasurers observe your warrants therein. [I. 96, p. 100.] |
| April 2 ? |
47. Petition of John Gibbs, late master of the Diamond, to the
Admiralty Committee, for renewal of his warrant, without which
he cannot serve again. [¾ page.] |
| April 2. |
48. Propositions by Mr. Powell to the Ordnance Committee to
supply 300 tons of culverin and sacker drakes at 27l. per ton, for
which the State now pays 30l. per ton, and formerly 35l. and 40l.
per ton; also 300 ton of granado shells at 35l., for which the State
pays 42l. 10s.; also 300 hand granado shells at 2s. 4d. a piece, for
which they now pay 2s. 6d. and formerly 3s. [¼ page.] |
April 2/12
Paris. |
49. Simon Smith to [Sec. Nicholas.] I am pleased to find that
you approve my reasons against the Duke of York's present coming
to France; when I wrote you, the Earl of Norwich was the fittest
person to serve the King and Duke in these parts, but that you
may see the instability of all things here, the Coadjutor has retired
discontented, Beaufort lost with the people and taken part with
the Court, Madam Chevereux disgraced and withdrawn, with her
daughter, the so near Princess of Conti. Chateauneuf has lost the
seals, which are given to the Premier President, the old Chancellor
Seguier, and Chavigné recalled to Council, and in fine all things run
the Prince of Conde's way, who sits and says very little and fait
le bon mine, to the Duke of Orleans. The most intelligent here are
posed, and if last week I thought some judgement might be given
concerning the settlement of affairs, I now think it may require
some months to discover the intentions of the P[rince] of Conde.
Sure I am, he is not in love with the Louvre, and I find the King and
Duke of York lose ground with him upon that score; indeed so little
encouragement is given to honest men, that I scarcely wonder to
see his Majesty so ill served. Your Louvre friends do not yet think
that Mr. Fanshaw shall make a saving voyage, unless it be by accepting to be Secretary to the Duke of Buckingham, which your
friend Sir John Berkley says he had commission from the Duke to
offer him: and your friend Lord Jermyn is so confident he shall not
only be Secretary but first Minister of State, that he has already
bespoke your beloved friend Walsingham to be one of three Secretaries, and fancies that number will be too small for him. I agree
with you that Lord Jermyn and his adorers [have a ?] design in their invitation of themselves to Lord Hatt[on]'s; but the
difficulty rests to discover what it should be; Lord Digby reports
that Lord Hatt[on]'s reservedness defeated Lord Jermyn's design,
and something Lord Digby had likewise to say, which is forborne
until another time. |
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As for the book in the press, I find it is either a frivolous report
or the opportunity lost by Sir —, in receiving it. All people
of understanding here are of opinion that — intends either for
Scotland, Jersey, or Holland, and they are the more induced to that
belief because he and his creatures so force the discourse of it upon
all occasions. |
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We hear that Denzil Hollis had lately sent to him 40 or 50 of the
King's blank Commissions, which he filled up with Presbyterian
names, and sent them to England with so much policy that they
miscarried by the way, and so the parties are discovered, which will
make the second part of the Earl of Derby's plot discovered, as is
written out of England by your friend Birkenhead, the particulars
whereof I believe we shall very shortly have in print. |
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I wonder the D[uke] of Wurtemburg should burn D. Seifrid's book
by the hands of the hangman, and let him escape for such doctrine,
and that the Rebels' Ambassadors should only receive bafflings and
derision from boys and women there, and not some such just reward
as Dorislaus or Ascham did, considering so many English are in
Holland. I also wonder to hear that Lord Inchiquin enquires after
the fitness of Capt. Meade to be his son's tutor, considering he is
neither yet arrived in Holland, nor I believe would undertake such a
charge, considering his late ill fortune that way. I am confident the
Marquis of O[rmond ?] will never be either of the Presbyterian or the
Louvre's opinion, and yet I cannot but think they receive much
countenance from him, and it is wholly impossible for any honest
loyal heart to carry himself either safely to himself or serviceable to
his master in the Louvre here. |
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Mr. Attorney's long stay is certainly more prejudicial to prince
Rupert than it can be there serviceable. To let you see what great
services are to be done about the Duke of York, it is here said that
Mr. Attorney lately drew a letter for the Duke to write to somebody,
when the Duke instantly revealed it to some of his Louvre scouts,
and prevailed upon them to send the copy hither, which they say
has been received with triumph and glory. God be merciful to the
family, for I fear irresolution and unsteadiness will be their ruin. To
let you see our mutability, since I wrote my letter, the seals are
taken from the Premier President, and given to the old Chancellor
Seguier, [for] 100,000 Crowns, and it is said that Count Tillier and
Monsieur Servient shall hold their places by the same tenure, notwithstanding they have been the [greatest] enemies the Prince of [Conde]
had, and if money will buy out his revenge, I should think he did
not yet, * * * for avarice of this kind will not get him more
money than it will lose him friends. [1 p. damaged. The passages
in Italics are in cipher deciphered.] |
| April 3. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
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1. To consider on Saturday as to supplying the place of Col. Willoughby, now deceased, as master attendant at Portsmouth. |
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2. Mr. Gurdon to report to Parliament that after some progress in
the business of Mr. Cooke, Council find that the examinations will
take up much time, and that the report cannot be completed by the
time appointed, and to request them to fix another day. |
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4. The letter and instructions to the Lords Ambassadors in Holland now read to be fair written, signed, and sent this night by an
express, and duplicates sent to-morrow by post. |
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5. The 40 men appointed to be drawn out of the garrison of Dover
Castle to remain there, and not to march thence until further
order. |
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6. Such members of Council as are in town to come to Council tomorrow afternoon. |
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7. The state of fact as to the fourth article of the demands made
by Council to the Portuguese Minister, and his answer thereto, to
be prepared by Mr. Frost and brought to Council, and to show where
the defect of his answer is to the fifth demand. |
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8. Lord Commissioner Whitelock, Mr. Scott, or Major Salwey to
make the report to Parliament of the treaty with the public Minister
of Portugal. |
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10. Major-General Skippon, Col. Thomson, and Alderman Allein
to be a Committee to go to the Tower, and view the present proof
house, and store house, and consider of the inconvenience and danger
threatened thereby, and likewise view the houses formerly used for
proof and store houses, and consider whether the old ones or the new
be most safe and convenient; the persons who have subscribed a
paper alleging the danger of using those houses to attend the Committee on Saturday next, in the Tower. |
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11. Sir Rich. Stone to have license to remain in town for two
months, he having petitioned Council, and they being satisfied concerning him by Col. Wauton and Sir Gilbert Pickering. |
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12. The Admiralty Judges to report to Council next Monday the
fact concerning the St. Anthony of Porto Port, before they proceed
to sentence, Dr. Walker to attend. |
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13. The petitions of several Flemish prisoners in Bury and Portsmouth referred to the Admiralty Committee. [I. 65, pp. 204–207.] |
April 3.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Navy Committee. Order being given to
Generals Popham and Blake to go to sea, and it being necessary they
should have some money with them for the incident service of their
ships, you are to order 250l. for each of them without loss of time.
[I. 96, p. 100.] |
April 3.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Charles Walley at Chester. There are several
recruits to be raised and transported to Ireland by Capt. Wm. Lowe,
for Col. Venables' regiment in Ulster, besides those to be drawn out
of garrisons designed for that service. When such men are raised
upon his own account, shipped, and under sail, you are to pay him
20s. a man out of your money for recruits for Ireland; also to pay
their quarters according to muster for those coming to the waterside
in fifties, and for the expediting thereof, you are also to provide
shipping and victuals. [I. 96, p. 101.] |
April 3.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Governors of Chester, Liverpool, and
Shrewsbury. We have lately sent order for the drawing of some
men out of your garrisons, and sending them to the waterside, for
Ireland, under conduct of your recruiting officers, and those to be
drawn out of your garrison are particularly assigned for Col.
Venables' regiment in Ulster, since which time Col. Venables has sent
over Capt. W. Lowe to take care of their transportation, so that the
charge of the month's pay for the officers that were to conduct them
to Ireland may be spared. Order the officers appointed for their
conduct to see them shipped and under sail, and then to deliver them
over to Capt. Lowe. [I. 96, p. 101.] |
April 3.
London. |
George Edwards alias. T. Coke to Rich. Smith alias Col. Thornhill,
Rotterdam. Though I have had a hard task to act here in our trade,
in respect of the dangers of the times, yet I still hold my head above
water. The time for quick markets draws now on towards the
spring; notwithstanding daily interruptions of our letters and commodities, I make shift to hold up our credit upon the exchange. I
know you do not desire to have your country wares last vented. I
before wrote you that D. R. refused to join stock with us upon any
terms, and thereupon other factors have been nominated, and now is
a time I could serve you aptly, if I had but a note of such persons
as you would employ or trust in your traffic. When at the Hague
and at Rotterdam, you and your brother John gave me a list of all
such persons in this country as you were resolved to make use of or
trade with, either for person, purses, or reputation. If I had that
by me now, I could make seasonable applications for your service.
It is of so much concern in this juncture that without it I can make
no progress in our business; but with that light, I have now opportunities to speedily bring that business to some head. To that purpose I have sent this express, whom you may trust, and deliver him
a speedy answer, and fail not to send the note, and what light you
can else about your countrymen. |
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Our northern markets look very gloriously, and it is a shame
your's should be the last. Send me but that list or model by the
bearer, and I shall be able to give directions how you shall dispose
of yourself by the next return. Though the bearer be trusty, yet
he knows nothing of any business, so dispatch him speedily and
without questions. |
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Remember me to your brother John and his brother, also to
Jervais and Sir Richard. Direct your letters to Peter Molin, at the
Angel, Lombard Street. I am loth to have the name of Edwards
seen on the back side of a letter. [Copy. 1¼ pages. Vol. IX.
No. 102.] |
| April 4. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
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1. Such dispatches as come to Council from foreign parts in any
foreign tongue are to be translated for the use of Council. |
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2. Notice to be given to the Lord Deputy of Ireland that Council
have received information that there are supplies of men made by
General Preston into Flanders, that he may make such use thereof
as he shall think fit. |
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3. To write the Lords Ambassadors in Holland, approving of
what has been done by them in insisting upon having reparation
from the States General for the affronts offered them, and to desire
them to use all possible speed for coming to a speedy conclusion of
the treaty. |
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4. The Committee for Examinations to issue a warrant for apprehending a certain person in this town to whom Prince Edward has
written. |
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5. The Admiralty Committee to send over a ship or two to the
coast of Holland, to attend the commands of the Lords Ambassadors
there, or such other services as they shall receive from hence. |
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6. The business of the exchange of prisoners in Jersey referred to
the Admiralty Committee, who are to signify to the Governor of
Jersey that they will exchange man for man with him, for such as he
now has, being prisoners of war, respect being had to their qualities. |
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7. The petitions for the exchange of Col. Axtell, Major Sadler, and
Lieut.-Col. Le Hunt, referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
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8. Also the petition for relief of the mariners' wives whose husbands are prisoners in Lisbon. [I. 65, pp. 217–219.] |
April 4.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Committee of London. We have
frequent notice of the designs of the enemy for stirring up insurrections and troubling the peace, and particularly within the city of
London and some neighbouring counties. For timely obviating
mischiefs and preservation of these parts in peace—the disturbance
whereof we know to be mainly aimed at by those who have the
chief management of those wicked designs—the horse raised by you
in the city and liberties must be kept up for two months longer, to
the number they were first raised to, that they may be ready for
service, unless we in the meantime shall give other order, which we
shall willingly do, and abate this charge and trouble, as soon as our
care of the common safety will permit; but meantime we find it
requisite to give you this order, and doubt not of your ready compliance. [I. 96, p. 107.] |
| April 5. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. To report to Parliament that Col. Willoughby, who was commissioner of the navy and master attendant at Portsmouth, is lately
dead, and as the service requires the place to be immediately supplied,
to recommend Capt. Robert Moulton, senior, for that employment, at
the same salary. |
|
2. When the above report is made, to move the House for an
order for payment of the money which Col. Willoughby, with
great willingness and good affection, laid out for defence of the
Thames, in the time of the insurrections of Kent and Essex, and of
other moneys due to him. |
|
3. The latter part of the letter from Rotterdam of 8 April to be
transcribed, and sent to General Deane. |
|
4. The first part of the said letter referred to the Admiralty
Committee, and the Navy Committee to be desired to take care of a
convoy for the ships that trade to Holland. |
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6. Approval of what has been done by the warden of the Fleet,
for securing Capt. Pitt and Jno. Weston. |
|
7. The petition of the inhabitants of Swaffham, co. Norfolk,
referred to Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood, Major-Gen. Harrison, and Col.
Wauton. |
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8. The petition of Geo. Chappel referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
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9. The petition from the inhabitants of Norfolk, concerning the
associating of honest men there for defence of the public, to be
considered with the militia business. |
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11. The petitions of some gentlemen imprisoned in cos. Stafford
Lancaster, Chester, and North Wales, to be considered next, Saturday. |
|
13. The Committee for Examinations to bail or set at liberty
Mr. Crew, prisoner in Newgate upon suspicion of being a servant to
Thomas Cooke. |
|
14. Mr. Hollis's account of the expenditure of 2,000l. for repairing the fortifications at Hull referred to Mr. Wilcox and Mr. Broad,
auditors. |
|
15. Mr. Tunstall, certified by the Commissioners of Haberdashers'
Hall as being employed in town about his compositions, to have 14
days allowed him. |
|
16. Order upon the petition of Sir Edw. Musgrave and Mr. Lamplough, that before license be given for them to continue in town,
they procure a certificate from Haberdashers' Hall that they are in
the effectual prosecution of their compositions. |
|
17. The recognizance of Major Wm. Aston of 30 June 1649, concerning the recruiting of his troop in Ireland, to be annulled, he
having performed the condition thereof. |
|
18. To issue a warrant to the ordnance officers to deliver to Commissioner Wm. Dobbins 50 barrels of powder, with match and bullet,
to repay what has been borrowed in those parts, and to write to
Cols. Duckenfield, Governor of Chester, and Birch, of Liverpool, to
furnish that quantity. |
|
19. The certificate of Mr. Oldsworth and Mr. Peter, on behalf of
two persons named for commissioners, approved, and Capt. Thos.
Thorowgood, commander of the Crescent, Capt. Thos. Jones, commander of the Ann and Joyce, and Capt. William Haddock, commander of the America, to be added and commissionated with them.
[I. 65, pp. 223–228.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners, co. Notts.
Considering the state of affairs in the county, and the designs of the
enemy in those parts, it may be dangerous at present to dismiss the
troop of horse that is in arms in your county, and we therefore
desire that it be kept on foot 14 days longer, so as to be ready to
prevent any insurrections or other distempers. [I. 96, p. 108.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Danvers [Governor of Stafford.] We
have reconsidered the business concerning Mr. Swinfen, Capt. Stone,
and Col. Jackson, who are under restraint at Stafford, and think
they may be discharged on recognizances each in 1,000l., and two
sureties of 500l., to appear at Council when summoned, and to be
of good behaviour. [I. 96, p. 109; 65, p. 225.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to General Deane. We hear from Rotterdam
that within 14 days after the 8th inst. (stilo novo), a fleet of ships
would be ready there to go for Greenland, and that the malignants
in those parts are to take passage in those ships, and to be set on
shore in Scotland. We give you notice hereof, so as to make use of
it in case you shall meet with that Greenland fleet. [I. 96,
p. 109.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Duckenfield. We formerly wrote you to
draw some recruits out of your garrison to be sent to Ireland, but
upon considering the state of affairs in those parts, we think it should
be suspended for some time, and desire you to forbear sending them
until further order. [I. 96, p. 109.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Sir Wm. Constable. Upon consideration of
yours, we leave it to you, being upon the place, to consider the state
of the garrison, and the safety of it in the first place, and thereupon,
if the orders formerly sent you for drawing out of the 120 men for
recruits can be put in execution with safety, you are to pursue them;
but if otherwise, we leave it to you to proceed as you have expressed.
[I. 96, p. 110.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Danvers [Governor of Stafford]. We
have appointed 200l. to be paid you, to be issued as directed by
Major-Gen. Harrison; you are therefore to appoint some person to
receive the money. As that town is of very great concernment, you
are to use your best diligence for keeping it in safety from the
designs which the enemy has upon it. We approve what you have
done in calling in the company of the country forces. [I. 96, p. 110;
65, p. 224.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to General Blake. Upon information from the
western parts concerning the fleet of Van Tromp, we dispatched
some instructions to you to govern yourself in that affair, and also
sent instructions to the Lords Ambassadors in Holland, and now
enclose you a copy, that you may see what we have appointed them
to do. [I. 96, p. 111.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-Gen. Desborow. We are sorry the
ships with the provisions have been so long in coming up to you,
whereby that business is delayed, and hope they will be speedily
with you; have all things ready, that upon their coming up, there
may be no further delay of putting in execution what you have
been instructed for. [I. 96, p. 111.] |
April 5.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the County Commissioners of Essex. The
works of the fort of Mersey Island are much out of repair; the
enemy has designs against it, and the safety of those parts of the
country depends on your keeping that island. You are to call in
the adjacent country to work at repairs, and put it in a defensible
condition. Have it done effectually and quickly, and certify us how
the work proceeds. [I. 96, p. 112.] |
| April 7. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Approval of what has been propounded for raising 4,000 horse
and dragoons upon all the counties of England, to be employed for
the safety of the commonwealth, and paid for six months, and order
that it be reported to Parliament to-morrow. Mr. Say, Col. Wauton,
and Major Salwey, to draw up the report, which Major Salwey is
to make. |
|
2. The petition of many godly and well affected persons in co.
Norfolk, referred to Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood, Major-Gen. Skippon,
Major-Gen. Harrison, Col. Wauton, Sir Gilbert Pickering, and
Mr. Gurdon, who are to speak with the gentlemen in town who
attend that business, thank them for their good affection, and
consider with them what use may be made of what they offer. |
|
3. So much of the Lord General's letter to Sir Hen. Vane as concerns the draught horses, and a further supply of hay, referred to
the Irish and Scotch Committee. |
|
4. To write Col. Birch to proceed to a strict examination of Adam
Roberts, or any other person engaged with Col. Booth or any other,
against the commonwealth, and to examine him before Col. Booth,
permitting the latter to cross-examine, and return the examinations. |
|
5. The letter of Sir Wm. Constable from Gloucester referred to the
Committee for Examinations. |
|
6. Major Salwey to report to Parliament that, in order to securing of the public peace, 3,000 horse and 1,000 dragoons should
be added to the forces already established for six months, and be
raised and proportioned out of the militia forces of the several
counties, respect being had to those counties which have already
raised and sent horse or dragoons to Scotland, and that pay be
provided for them; estimated at 120,000l. |
|
8. Count Althem to be brought to Council next Wednesday. |
|
9. Col. Oughtred Shuttleworth to be kept close prisoner for four
days more, and brought to the Committee for Examinations to be
further examined. |
|
10. The title of Excellency to be given to the Spanish Ambassador,
in the letter to be sent to him concerning the Ann of Foy, and the
case of Mr. Brocke. |
|
11. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood, Mr. Leman, Alderman Allein, Col.
Fielder, Mr. Goodwin, and Mr. Bond, to be a committee to examine
the business of William Thornaby, collector for Whitby. |
|
13. The Committee for Examinations to prepare a report concerning the papers taken of Joseph Ashe, and present it to Council,
in order to its being reported to Parliament. |
|
14. To write the Mayor of Coventry to send up Roger Burgoine
in safe custody, as also two or three witnesses against him. |
|
15. The business of Sir Thomas Middleton to be considered next
Saturday. |
|
16. The Navy Commissioners to contract for 18 demi-culverins
of 10 feet long and 19 cwt., and for four of 10 feet long and 26 cwt.,
for chase guns for the four new frigates building for the State, and
to provide money for them. [I. 65, pp. 229–232.] |
April 7.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Capt. Lionel Lane [commander of the ships in
the Downs]. We approve of your stay in the Downs of certain
Dutch ships laden with contraband goods, bound for Lisbon, and
desire you to bring them into the Thames, and place them in the
hands of the collectors for prize goods, to be proceeded against
according to law. [I. 96, p. 112; 65, p. 231.] |
April 7.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commissioners of Customs. There being
want of grain in Guernsey for sustentation of the inhabitants, Peter
Le Febvre petitions leave to transport thither 100 quarters of barley,
and 10 of wheat; which you are to permit him to do from any port
of this nation, on security to land it in Guernsey, and return a
certificate of the same. [I. 96, p. 113.] |
| April 8. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State have power to raise
or continue, for a time not exceeding six months, from 1 May 1651,
out of the militias of the several counties, a force of 3,000 horse and
1,000 dragoons, in lieu of the said several militias, to be paid according to the establishment of the Army by the Army Commissioners,
and the Council of State to have power to grant them Commissions.
[I. 89, pp. 22–3.] |
| April 8. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The Committee of Examinations either to dismiss or take bail
of Geo. Fann, as they see cause. |
|
2. The Admiralty Committee to examine the desires of Hen.
Croone, for exporting 600 or 700 quarters of decayed wheat imported from foreign parts, in lieu of which he undertakes to import
double the quantity of good and sound corn, and to confer with the
Commissioners of Customs upon what grounds they forbid the
exporting of this corn, as it has decayed since it was first imported. |
|
3. The papers brought in from the High Court of Justice,—one
relating to proceedings with persons engaged in Sir John Gell's
conspiracy, and the other to their expenses and present want of
money,—referred to Major Salwey, Mr. Goodwin, Mr. Scott, Mr. Say,
aud Sir Gilbert Pickering, who are to consider where the money
may be had. |
|
4. Mr. Say to desire the House to appoint a short time to consider and pass a Bill for the sale of delinquents' lands,—money being
appointed therefrom for carrying on the service of Ireland, and for
furnishing the stores which are exhausted, and in need of considerable supplies,—as these services cannot bear longer delay, and there
are no other public moneys that can be applied to that purpose. |
|
5. Mr. Salwey to move the House to call upon the High Court of
Justice for an account of their proceedings concerning Sir John
Stowel. |
|
6. Order upon the petition of Edw. Denny, that Col. Berkstead
remove the soldiers from Gurney House, if it can be conveniently
done, to some other place, and certify what he thinks fit to be
allowed for the time he has been quartered there; and if he cannot
otherwise provide for their quarters, then what is fit to be allowed
for the time they shall continue there. |
|
7. Sir Arth. Hesilrigge, Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood, Major-Gen. Harrison, Col. Wauton, Col. Fielder, Major Salwey, and Major Lister, to
consider how the order of Parliament as to raising a force of horse
and dragoons may be best put in execution. |
|
8. The letter from Lincoln of the 5th inst. referred to the above
Committee. |
|
10. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider what directions
have already been given about Major Gen. Harrison's going down to
the northern parts, and the alteration of the militia into 4,000 horse
and dragoons, and what instructions are fit to be given to him, as
also to prepare the same, and meet to-morrow at 7 a.m. |
|
11. The proposition of Capt. Mollins referred to the Irish and
Scotch Committee. |
|
12. The petition of Elizabeth Alken referred to the Committee
of Examinations. |
|
13. Major-Gen. Harrison and Col. Scroope to send for the officers
of Capt. Pury's company now at Gloucester, that they may be proceeded against here according to martial law, for making a mutiny
upon the occasion of that company being appointed for the service
of Ireland. |
|
15. Mr. Bond to report to Parliament that, upon considering the
state of Guernsey, and the designs of the enemy upon it, Council
thinks that, besides the five companies already there, two companies
of 100 each, besides officers, should be sent thither, one to be commanded by Col. Bingham, and the other by Major [Barrett] Lacy;
and that for the provision for them, two of Col. Heane's company
should be transferred to Col. Bennet's regiment, which is not yet full,
and two new companies raised to be of Col. Heane's regiment, and
paid upon the establishment thereof, but sent into Guernsey. Also
as Council finds it necessary that two field officers should be upon
the place, and the charge of these two companies are by this means
saved, he is to request Parliament that Col. Bingham and Major
Lacy may be established in pay until further order, and that Col.
Bingham may be allowed 20s. a day, as Colonel and Governor,
besides the pay which he is to receive as captain out of Col. Heane's
regiment, and that if they approve, they will give order to the Army
Committee to pay the said officers accordingly. |
|
16, 17. Orders for addition of these companies to the five formerly
in Guernsey, as recommended above. |
|
21. To write the Lord General, signifying the present state of
those forces in Lancashire, and the danger that threatened the commonwealth in the parts adjacent, and to desire him to order his
intended expedition upon the enemy so that he may be able to
attend their attempts for invasion. |
|
22. Major-General Harrison to be suspended for the present from
his march northwards, and to apply himself and such forces as are
requisite, for the execution of such particulars as he shall receive
information of from the Committee of Examinations, until the Lord
General's mind concerning the precedent order be certified to Council;
in the interim, the forces ordered for his brigade are to be completed.
[I. 65, pp. 235–241.] |
April 8.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. Parliament passed a vote
to-day concerning the raising of 3,000 horse and 1,000 dragoons,
out of the several militias. All care shall be taken for the most
expeditious raising of them. We have 15 troops of horse and
dragoons under Col. Rich in Lancashire and these parts, who are
disarming and securing divers persons. We will make these troops
up to 2,500 with speed; we signify this to you, that you may know
what forces are in those parts. The enemy have designs upon
Chester, Kent, Surrey, and Sussex, as well as against this place, and
for preventing thereof we must also provide. Berkenhead has
arrived, and is now under examination, as also Thomas Cooke, who
has been retaken, and is now a prisoner in the Tower. [I. 96,
p. 113.] |
April 8.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. Considering the state of
Guernsey, and the designs of the enemy against it, we have appointed
Col. John Bingham governor, and two companies, besides the five
already there, to be sent under his command. We desire you to
send him a commission as governor of the island and commander of
the forces there, as also a commission for martial law, whereby he
may be the better enabled to discharge the duty of that place. [I. 96,
p. 114.] |
April 8.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Army Committee. Addition of troops for
defence of the isle of Guernsey, as before. Confer with the Treasurers-at-war, and order three months' pay to be advanced on
account to Col. Bingham, for the said companies on that service;
order that he be furnished with 200l. for contingencies, and also
provide him a surgeon's chest. [I. 96, p. 116.] |
| April 9. |
Order in Parliament for the addition to the troops at Guernsey,
and their allowances, as recommended by the Council of State, who
are to see this vote put in execution. [I. 89, p. 23.] |
| April 9. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The petition of the Earl of Berkshire referred to Sir John
Trevor, Sir Gilbert Pickering, Mr. Leman, and Sir Hen. Vane, who
are to confer with Col. Berkstead, and with consent of the parties,
to settle the business or report. |
|
2. The petition of Lieut.-Col. Jno. Rathborne, with his propositions for raising forces for Ireland, referred to the Irish and Scotch
Committee. |
|
4. The Ordnance Committee to consider the propositions of the
governor of Portsmouth, as to repairing that garrison, and do as
they conceive fit for securing the same. |
|
5. Sir Wm. Waller to be committed to Warwick Castle, and Lieut.Gen. Fleetwood to take care to have him sent thither. |
|
7. Count Althem to be discharged from the Tower. |
|
9. John Bellasis to be committed to the Tower upon suspicion
of treason, and kept there ten days for further examination. [I. 65,
pp. 245–246.] |
April 9.
Whitehall. |
50. Petition of Peter Crawley, gunner of Wallingford Castle, to
the Council of State, to examine the papers annexed, and refer them
to the Ordnance Committee. Petitioner nine weeks since sent up
several papers concerning supplies required at the Castle, which
were referred to the said committee, but the reference has been lost,
and after his time, trouble, and expense, he is now as far off of what
he sought as ever. With reference thereon to the Ordnance
Committee. [½ page. Also I. 65, p. 246.] Annexing, |
|
50. i. Note by Arthur Evelyn, Governor of Wallingford Castle,
of canvas, paper, rope, ladles, blocks, bandoleers, sheepskins, &c. required for the Castle.—31 Jan. 1650–1.
[2/3 page.] |
|
50. ii. Note of carriages for guns also wanting. [page.] |
| April 10. |
Proceedings in Parliament upon the report from the Council of
State, touching their transactions with the public minister from the
King of Portugal. |
|
The first article of the demands made by the Council of State
was read, viz., That all the English who are in prison or in any
restraint, under bail or otherwise, in any part of the dominions of
the King of Portugal, be forthwith set at liberty. Explanation
by Council. As to the first article, our meaning is that all the
English who have been put under any kind of restraint since
Rupert first arrived in the river of Lisbon be set at liberty, and
their bail and caution discharged, except such as are under bail or
caution or in prison upon any civil action for debts, or for matters
criminal, which have not relation to any acts of hostility between
the two nations, since the first arrival of Rupert. Order that Parliament approves of this demand, and that it be insisted on in the
treaty with the public minister of the King of Portugal. |
|
The second demand, viz., That all ships, money, and goods
belonging to any of the English, that have been seized in any
of the dominions of the King of Portugal, be forthwith freely
restored, and reparation made for damages to the proprietors.
Explanation of Council, that debts also are to be comprised, and
restitution is to be in specie, of the same value and goodness as
at the time of the seizure; or if not in specie, or that they be impaired by occasion of the seizure, then satisfaction to be made
to the true value when they were seized; as to reparation for
damages, we are content to explain, and shall not insist upon the
greatest extent thereof, but only as consonant with equity and
reason, and testifying our propension to peace. Like order of
approval. |
|
The third demand, viz., That justice be done upon those that
murdered our men in Portugal, being on shore, and upon those that
attempted the burning of the Admiralty ship in the river. Explanation of Council, If you assent to the matter of it, we offer as
as a means of execution that such of the English nation as were
actors or accessories to the murder of our men on shore, and are or
shall be hereafter found within any of the dominions of the King
of Portugal, be delivered to us to be proceeded against here; and
such as are guilty as aforesaid, being subjects to Portugal, be proceeded against there; and that all guilty persons now withdrawn,
who shall be hereafter nominated by Parliament, be proceeded
against to proscription, and be executed whenever they return into
the dominions of the said King. Approved. |
|
The fourth demand read, with estimates of the charge of fitting,
setting forth to sea, and maintaining several fleets upon the coast
of Portugal in 1649, 1650, and part of 1651, total 214,640, viz.,
That reparation be given to this commonwealth, and repayment
made of all their charges in setting out the fleets sent to Portugal
for reducing the revolted ships that were protected by the King of
Portugal, or for doing right to the people of this nation, for losses
sustained from that king or people, according to the estimate delivered. Explanation by Council: This satisfaction desired is to be
towards reimbursement of the great charge of the commonwealth, in
default of right and justice from the king, toward the payment
of which we are content the goods seized here and the reprisals
taken by us shall go on account. Approved, but the demand to be
only 180,000l., and the neat value of the ships, sugars, &c., taken
from the Portuguese to go upon account thereof, and that in such
sum is comprehended the sixth part of the mariners' share, which is
not to be put upon the account of the Portuguese. |
|
Fifth demand, That restitution or reparation be made of or for all
goods belonging to the English taken by Rupert or Maurice, or by
any ships under their command, and brought into Portugal and
disposed of, or now remaining there. Explanation by Council. As
to this article, which you say is so abstruse and difficult, we conceive
the demand exceedingly plain and clean. This restitution ought to
be made by the King of Portugal because, although demand was
made, no civil process could be obtained against Rupert, nor would
the king suffer our ships there to do justice themselves. |
|
Sixth demand, That the Convertine and all other ships belonging
to the commonwealth, or any other ship belonging to people of this
nation, brought into Portugal by Rupert or any of his fleet, which
are or have been in the hands of the King of Portugal or of any of
his subjects, and have been disposed of by them, be redelivered, with
all their apparel, guns, and equipage, and all due satisfaction given
for their unjust detention. Explanation: our meaning is clear, and
for the reason before given, we demand restitution and satisfaction
as therein expressed, whether the ships were disposed of by the King
of Portugal or any of his subjects, or whether sold by his consent
or not. |
|
The answer of the Council of State to the three preliminary demands of the public minister of Portugal, contained in the two last
paragraphs of the 15th paper, was also read, viz., To the end there
may be nothing remaining with us which may longer detain you
from giving a full answer to the 4th demand, whereby Parliament
may know what satisfaction they may expect, we further declare
that the demands preliminary to the treaty will be comprehended in
the six articles in our first paper; nor is it our intention to make or
insist upon any new preliminary demands, unless, upon report of our
proceedings to Parliament, we receive their express order, or unless
further evidence than is yet before us of injuries done to this nation
by Portugal occasion the same, before the preliminary articles on
both parts be signed. And for answer to your three preliminary
articles we say, that by the narrative of the fact formerly delivered
to you by our committee, it appears that Parliament, for righting
themselves and the people of this nation for the injuries done
them by the Portuguese, have not proceeded otherwise than in
the way of justice, according to the law of nations, and with care
not to give any just occasion of interruption of the former amity;
whereas the seizure, and other acts of force and denial of justice
by the Portuguese, have been contrary to common right, and the
articles of alliance between the two nations, and therefore it ought
not to be expected that there should be any cessation of arms or
renewal of commerce, until the satisfaction demanded be given to
this commonwealth that has sustained the wrong; yet, to show our
continued propension to peace, we make this particular reply to
your three preliminary desires. |
|
That from the time that the King of Portugal shall actually set at
liberty the persons and goods of all the English restrained or seized,
and absolutely discharge them and their bail or sureties, and give
security for the performance of the other four demands, they are content there shall be a cessation of arms, and a continuance of mutual
and free trade, and no further seizures, upon any pretence whatsoever, either of persons or goods, for three months; and they limit
the ending of the time as aforesaid, that within that time, the treaty
of a full peace may proceed, in the managing whereof consideration
may be had of the former articles of peace, and of such other articles
as shall be thought fit; and that upon the making thereof, the freedom of trade and commerce and all other fruits may take effect, not
upon any cessation temporary, but upon a plenary league and amity. |
|
Order that the answers given in by the public minister of Portugal
to the demands made by the Council of State, with their explanations,
are not satisfactory. |
|
That the said minister give in his positive answer to the above,
and the other proposals of the Council of State, as approved by
Parliament, within six days after they are delivered to him. [I. 89,
pp. 24–29.] |
| April 10. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Capt. Lane's letter, with the papers of Mynheer Schaeph, to be
sent to the collectors for prize goods, who are to send them to the
Admiralty Court, that the ships mentioned therein may be proceeded
against according to law. |
|
4. The letter of the Lord General of the 5th instant referred to
the Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to confer with the navy
victuallers concerning it. |
|
5. To inform Mr. Vaux that he is to forbear removing Mr. Milton
out of his lodgings in Whitehall, until Sir Hen. Mildmay and Sir
Gilbert Pickering have conferred with the Committee concerning
that business. |
|
6. Lord Commissioner Whitelock to report to Parliament that
Council has received letters from the Lords Ambassadors from Holland, relating to a paper put in by them to the Provincial States of
Holland, concerning an affront offered to them by Edward, son of the
Queen of Bohemia, and requiring satisfaction; and that upon receipt
of such dispatch, Council gave them the directions contained in a
paper annexed, since which Council have received other letters and
papers relating to further affronts offered to the ambassadors, which
they submit to the House for their consideration. [I. 65, pp. 252,
253.] |
April 10.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commissioners for Compounding. Upon
considering the petition of Sir Hen. Titchbourne, we find there is
1,168l. 16s. 8d. due to him for disbursements for Ireland, and provisions delivered for the forces there; part thereof should be paid
him, so as to enable him to return to Ireland, and we therefore
desire you to issue a warrant to your treasurers to repay him 300l.
out of the revenues of the lands lately settled upon trustees for Irish
affairs. [I. 96, p. 115.] |
April 10.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord Deputy of Commissioners in Ireland.
We find that Sir Hen. Titchbourne's disbursements amount to
1,468l. 16s. 8d., whereof 300l. was paid to him by order of Council
in April 1649, and we having ordered payment of 300l. more, there
is a balance of 868l. 16s. 8d. due to him, for which he should receive
satisfaction in Ireland, in regard of his many good services against
the rebels; we desire you to pay it out of the forfeited lands in
Ireland, as you, being upon the place, shall judge most convenient.
[I. 96, p. 115.] |
| April 11. |
Declaration of Parliament that, if the demands and propositions
now resolved on by the House to be given in to the public Minister
of Portugal be not consented to by him within six days, they are
not to be obligatory on the part of Parliament. |
|
That the above votes be instructions to the Council of State, in
their giving the Minister their final resolution upon the treaty
between them, and demanding his answer to the several resolutions
of Parliament within the time so limited, which they are to do, and
report their proceedings. |
|
That such Englishmen as have eminently suffered in Portugal, in
person or estate, for their good affections to Parliament, be taken
into particular consideration, for further reparation out of the estates
of other English in the power of Parliament who have there adhered
to or assisted Rupert or his party, over and above the provisions
made for them in the articles between this commonwealth and the
public Minister of that kingdom. |
|
Order in Parliament that the petition of the mayor, aldermen, and
common council of the city of London be referred to the Council of
State. [I. 89, pp. 29, 30.] |
| April 11. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The Ordnance Committee to consider how two whole culverins
may be provided and sent to Guernsey, there being two lately broken
there. |
|
2. The petition of Capt. Thomas Keyser referred to the Committee
of Examinations, who are to examine him on the information against
him. |
|
3. Mr. Newborough, storekeeper at Portsmouth, to be employed
as engineer at Guernsey, and Col. Bingham to contract with him for
that service. |
|
5. A similar order to that affixed upon the doors in the lobby and
the Horse chambers in Whitehall to be put on the doors of the great
and little chamber. |
|
6. Dr. Walker and Mr. Bud to come to town, to take the examinations of the Dutchmen who were in the Holland ships bound for
Lisbon, so that speedy proceedings may be had in that business. |
|
7. The Admiralty Judges to proceed to judgment upon the
Anthony of Porto Port, Council not intending, by their former order
on the state of fact represented to them, to stay legal proceedings.
[I. 65, pp. 256–258.] |
April 11.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the bailiffs, jurats, and inhabitants of Guernsey,
Having considered the state of your island, and the designs of the
enemies upon it, for preservation of it and of you, we send Col.
Bingham, one of your neighbours, to take charge of that place as
governor, with two more companies, who we have taken care may
be duly paid, so as not to be a burden to the place; we doubt
not but by his good conduct and care, both that place will be preserved, and the misunderstandings that have been too much amongst
you, to the great danger of the island, will be composed, and we
expect that you will join all your assistance, according as it is
your interest, for the service of this commonwealth, in the defence
of the island, and reducing of the castle. [I. 96, p. 117.] |
April 11.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commissioners of Customs. Col. Bingham, now appointed Governor of Guernsey, says the inhabitants
have an ancient charter for transporting custom-free wheat, hops,
&c. necessary for their subsistence, and that they have accordingly
transported such commodities from Hampton, Poole, Weymouth,
and other parts of the West; upon consideration of the present
state of that island, we think they should enjoy what privileges they
have formerly had, and therefore desire you to order the officers
of those ports, and to take the like order in this port of London, that
what goods shall be certified by the said Governor to be needful for
the subsistence of the inhabitants may pass thither as formerly,
custom-free. [I. 96, p. 117.] |
| April 12. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The two persons apprehended upon the search for Mr. Bunce
to be discharged, on giving security to appear before Council on
summons, and not do anything prejudicial to the State. |
|
2. The orders of Parliament upon the report from Council of the
treaty with the envoy of Portugal referred to the committee
formerly appointed to treat with him, who are to prepare a paper in
pursuance of the votes. |
|
3. Sir Hen. Mildmay to report to Parliament that Council, conceiving Dover Castle to be in danger by the designs of the enemy,
think Capt. Cannon should be sent down to take care thereof. |
|
4. The letter from the Commissioners of Ireland at Kilkenny
referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
5. The Entrance and Constant Warwick to be sent to Holland, to
receive the directions of the Lords Ambassadors there, or such other
orders as they shall receive from hence, and Col. Popham is to send
the first which is ready with the express from Council. |
|
6. Samuel Duncon, of Ipswich, to be discharged of the 1,500l.
received by him on account, for providing biscuit for the army in
Scotland. [I. 65, pp. 259–260.] |
April 12.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Popham. Council having thought fit
some ships should be sent to the coast of Holland, to perform service
as directed by the ambassadors there, have resolved that the Constant
Warwick, Entrance, and Elizabeth, be so employed. We therefore
desire you to order them to set sail to such port in Holland as shall
be most fit; and in case they cannot be ready to sail together by the
first opportunity, you are to order the one most ready to receive the
express messenger of this Council on board, and set sail for the coast
of Holland. [I. 96, p. 120.] |
April 12.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-General Desborow and the Generals at
Sea. The enclosed information to this Council [from foreign parts]
coming from a good hand and one worthy of credit, we send you a
transcript, not doubting but you will do your best to prevent the
execution of what is therein discovered to be the design of the
enemy. [I. 96, p. 120; 65, p. 252.] |
| April 13/23. |
51. Col. Thos. Ogle to [Secretary Nicholas]. Since my coming to
the Hague, I have been informed that Prince Rupert really intends
to question the business of Aylesbury, when it shall please God to
put His Majesty in a fit condition; and I also find, much to my
grief, that I am much misunderstood concerning that action. Partly
therefore for my own vindication, but principally that the truth may
appear when His Highness shall have occasion to question it, I have
left this paper, containing a brief account, which I am ready to
deliver upon oath, and entreat you to certify His Majesty hereof
with speed. |
|
It pleased His late Majesty, that blessed martyr, to give me
express orders, when a prisoner in Winchester House upon his
interest, to proceed with Messrs. Nye, Goodwin, Homstead, Grafton,
Moseley, Devenish, and others of the Independent faction, according
to my letter to the Earl of Bristol intimating their desires to His
Majesty, on their own and all the rest's behalf, in order to their
plenary satisfaction and freedom from pressure of conscience in
point of worship, which they judged might more easily and safely
be obtained, and by them more honestly and honourably accepted
from the King than the Covenant, then in its triumphant career in
London, they having failed of their expectation from the address
they made to His Majesty by Sir Basil Brooke. Upon receipt of
this warrant from His Majesty, I concluded upon certain articles or
rather propositions, in order to a treaty upon their coming to Oxford,
and for this purpose I received a safe conduct from His Majesty,
with a blank for such names as I thought fit to insert, as also 100l.
out of his bounty towards my necessities. |
|
The general upon which all particulars were founded was that if
His Majesty gave them assurance of liberty of conscience, upon their
submission to the temporal authority, they should employ their
whole interest in opposition to the Scotch Covenant, serve His
Majesty against the two Houses, and submit to a moderate episcopacy, which they judged to be far more tolerable than the other, and
indeed the only way to settle the nation; and from this general, one
particular was that they would deliver the garrisons of Aylesbury
and Windsor to the King, as pledges for performance of their future
assistance, upon His Majesty's command, after their coming to
Oxford and receiving satisfaction. |
|
Upon those considerations I was suffered to escape from prison,
and conveyed to Oxford, where I gave His Majesty an account of
all particulars, and delivered the papers under their own hands,
wherein was expressed their speedy coming to Oxford, upon the safe
conduct; but instead of their coming according to expectation,
they sent a messenger to know the certainty of my arrival, and
their entertainment, by whom they received an account of both,
which, by two second letters to the Earl of Bristol and me, they
acknowledged to be satisfactory, and so magnified His Majesty's grace
and favour, and so bewailed their sorrow for the mischief they had
been instrumental in doing, that they proposed the delivery of
Aylesbury to His Majesty before their coming to Oxford. |
|
Upon receipt of these letters, the Earl of Bristol, by His Majesty's
command, did seriously and in private debate with me what was
to be done, and I positively delivered my sense that the motion was
not to be accepted of at that time; first, as it might hinder a further
progress in the general proposition, by confirming that vulgar assertion at London that always, when His Majesty pretended fairest for
religion and law, he had some particular design in his chiefest aim.
Secondly, if the King thought fit to have that town as an assurance
of their fidelity, it was most certain to be obtained when they were
come to Oxford; for then they would be faithful in performance, in
regard of their own particular safety and preservation. This advice
His Majesty approved of when I spoke with him, and so commanded
me to return answer for their speedy coming to Oxford. |
|
While they were expected, Lord Digby, without my privity or
his father's consent, sent to Lieut.-Col. Moseley at Aylesbury, and
demanded the delivery of that town, according to their undertakings,
who answered that he daily expected the rest of his correspondents,
and that upon their coming, they would advise about it, and deliver
that town to His Majesty, before their coming to Oxford. The second
day after, Moseley sent letters to the Earl of Bristol and to me,
that they were all at Aylesbury, and resolved to stand there until
the delivery of the town, and desired me to meet him at Ethrop, to
conclude the manner thereof. Lord Digby thereupon sent for me,
and pressed me to meet and manage this business, but I refused;
and he afterwards got the King to command me to undertake it. I
obeyed, upon His Majesty's word that whatever was the event, I
should not be blamed, but should only receive my directions in
writing from Lord Digby, and return the answers; and to encourage
me, I had a commission for the government of Aylesbury, if it
succeeded. |
|
I obeyed, and in a week or ten days concluded upon the time
and manner of the delivery thereof, and had it under Moseley's
hand and seal, confirmed by his voluntary oath upon the Bible, for
performance of the particulars agreed upon by him, which I reported
to His Majesty, and delivered afterwards to Lord Digby, adding
that I had engaged Moseley to send out his brother-in-law and
another captain, as hostages for his true performance, though this
was no part of my instructions, for which His Majesty thanked me. |
|
At the time appointed I went to Ethrop, and an hour or two
before, Prince Rupert came up with the party, and the hostages not
coming, I secured the man that was sent to me by Moseley in
excuse thereof, until Lord Gerard's coming, to whom I delivered him,
and with him rode to the Prince, and showed him Moseley's letter,
and advised him to make a retreat, which His Highness did to
Thame, and I came voluntarily to Oxford, where, upon the Prince's
return, I was committed to Capt. Smith, provost marshal, by Lord
Digby's warrant, and was not discharged from his house for two or
three hours, and then upon His Majesty's special command, and
afterwards confined to my own quarter until further order. |
|
While I was there, I petitioned His Majesty and Prince Rupert
several times, and earnestly pressed, both by myself and friends,
divers persons, and in particular, Lord Gerard, and used what means
I could to be brought to a council of war, but could not obtain it; I
understood that the reason thereof, and of my suffering, was a particular emnity between Prince Rupert and Lord Digby, who, to
clear himself of the Prince's charge, had committed me; during this
time I received several messages from the Earl of Bristol, by Mr.
Broome, to be patient, and that the conclusion should be both for
my honour and advantage, and that meantime I should want nothing. |
|
After the Prince had marched into the North, and Lord Gerard
into Wales, I was discharged, and requested His Majesty either for a
public vindication, in case of my innocency, or punishment in case
of guilt, or else a pass. Public vindication was denied me, but a
private I received from both His Majesty, the Earl of Bristol, and
Lord Digby, who told me they were all satisfied of my innocence,
whereupon I desired my pass, and had it, with a safe conduct, 200l.,
and six horses, and I then departed from Oxford, beseeching His
Majesty to judge of my fidelity by the experience of my former
sufferings and service, and also by my future carriage, and not by
reports or informations. |
|
I arrived in Weymouth, with my wife and children, in May, and
thence got into France, with much difficulty, but lost both my
horses and the bills of exchange appointed to me at Weymouth, upon
the flight of the governor and many others into Portland, and
amongst them those from whom I was to receive the 200l., and the
bills were not answered, in regard of the loss of the town and their
flight. |
|
I continued in France until Gravelines was over, and thence came
to Sas leaguer. At Flushing I fell desperately sick, which forced
my return to England, and so into Northumberland, to my own
house, whence, after my recovery and the King's coming to Newcastle, I was sent prisoner to London, and so continued at the
Black Rod and Newgate, until His Majesty was seized upon by the
army. |
|
At Stoke was the first time I had the happiness to have any discourse with His Majesty since my departure from Oxford; he showed
me particular respect, and stated, in presence of Sir Thomas Windebank, Capt. Marsh, and others, that he believed I was extremely
wronged about the Aylesbury business, and that he had heard of my
great sufferings, for which he was very sorry, and would remember
them hereafter. At Hampton Court His Majesty commanded me to
give him thewhole proceedings about Aylesbury in writing, which
I did, and earnestly desired liberty to print it, which he promised;
but finding, upon perusal of it, that the original papers were in the
Earl of Bristol's hands, he thought it necessary to peruse them before
publication, and stated that he had sent for them, and upon their
return, I should have license to print it, and he would also tell me
the cause why he desired it, and give me further order; but meantime His Majesty was suddenly carried away to the Isle of Wight,
and I never saw him afterwards, nor knew what became of the
writings which, by his command, I had prepared and delivered to
him. |
|
Now consider: |
|
1st. That Aylesbury was attempted against my advice. |
|
2nd. That I was commanded by the King to undertake the
managing of it. |
|
3rd. That I did nothing in it save by order in writing from Lord
Digby, and returned Moseley's papers in answer to his Lordship. |
|
4th. That after I was committed, I pressed my utmost to be
brought to a Council of War. |
|
5th. That I was vindicated by His Majesty, the Earl of Bristol,
and Lord Digby, the particulars whereof I acquainted Sir Wm.
Boswell with, after my coming to Sas, wherewith he was fully
satisfied, as appears by sundry letters under his own hand. |
|
6th. That I have never since, directly or indirectly, made any
application to the enemy, but suffered with constancy and patience
loss of liberty for five months, at the Black Rod, and 22 weeks at
Newgate, and of my estate, neither taking covenant nor engagement,
nor compounding, nor so much as owning the usurped authority by
petition or discourse. |
|
And lastly, I have been above seven months a prisoner with the serjeant-at-arms at Whitehall, and elsewhere, under colour of being at
Breda, and holding correspondence with his now Majesty, being a
dangerous person, and an enemy to the commonwealth; where with
patience, through God's blessing, as a ship in a tempestuous sea, I
ride out the storm at anchor. [5¾ pp., endorsed by Nicholas.] |
| April 14. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. A draft of an Act to be prepared declaring all who hold correspondence with the enemies of the commonwealth, and especially
with James Bunce, late alderman of London, guilty of high treason. |
|
2. The letters and papers received from the Lords Ambassadors
of the commonwealth to be reported to the House to-morrow by
Mr. Bond. |
|
3. Lord Chandos to be committed a prisoner to the Tower for
high treason, in holding correspondence with the King of Scots, and
other enemies, and kept closely until his examination is finished,
which the Committee of Examinations is to take care of, and report
to Council within 10 days. |
|
4. The said Committee to examine how the business of securing
Lord Chandos's estate, submitted to them under an injunction of
secrecy, was discovered. |
|
5. Sir Thomas Ingram to be committed to the Fleet, for contempt
to Council by refusing to answer a question concerning a matter
depending before them. |
|
6. The letter from the Lord Deputy and Commissioners in Ireland,
of the 24th ult., from Kilkenny, with the representation sent
therewith, to be reported to the House by Mr. Say. |
|
7. The business of Ireland to be considered next Wednesday. |
|
8. The letter from the Lord Deputy of Ireland of the 25th ult.,
referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee. [I. 65, pp. 262–263.] |
April 14.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Revenue Commissioners. By the enclosed
petition and papers from the Gunners of the Tower, there appear
some arrears due to them. As they are wholly unable to do without
payment, we desire you to give order for paying what is due.
[I. 96, p. 122.] |
| April 15. |
Order in Parliament that that part of Lord General Cromwell's
letter from Edinburgh, of 8 April, concerning Commissioners to be
sent to Scotland, be referred to the Council of State, to present the
names of fit persons to be Commissioners, and instructions to be given
to them, and to report with speed. [I. 89, p. 30.] |
| April 15. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Lord Grey, Col. Fielder, Sir Hen. Vane, Sir John Trevor, and
Mr. Leman, to be a Committee to speak with Colonel Berkstead and
the Surveyor of Works, as to fitting up James' House to receive
that part of Col. Berkstead's regiment now quartered in rented houses,
and to give the Surveyor order for making it fit for that purpose
with all speed. |
|
2. The above Committee to give Col. Berkstead directions for
removing the soldiers quartered in Berkshire House, and to quarter
them with the remainder of his regiment, in the houses for which
the State pays rent. |
|
3. The Committee to whom was formerly committed the business
of proportioning the 4,000 horse and dragoons to consider as to
disposing of the ammunition lately raised for the militia in the several
counties, so that it may not be used to the prejudice of the State;
also to take care for preserving the colours and trophies belonging to
the militia force, and take an account of the monies raised for that
service, and what remains in private hands; also to consider the
instructions given to the Militia Commissioners, and advise as to
what powers are fit to be continued in certain persons, without
charge to the public, for preservation of the peace. |
|
4. The same Committee to consider as to furnishing 150 draught
horses for the Army in Scotland, out of such horses as are not to be
further used by the militia. |
|
5. The letter from Mr. Hussey at Shafton, to Mr. Bond, referred to
the Irish and Scotch Committee; Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to take
care of the business, and be added to that Committee. |
|
8. The said Committee to nominate some fit persons to be Commissioners to Scotland, in pursuance of the order of Parliament. |
|
9. To write Col. Pyne, taking notice of his great pains and care in
the public service, and to desire him to continue it. |
|
10. The Committee for Examinations to examine the business of
Naylor and Swinborne, prisoners in York, and give such order as
they judge fit. |
|
11. The report from the Admiralty Committee concerning Dover
Harbour to be reported to Parliament by Mr. Leman. |
|
12. The Committee for Examinations to make a report concerning
the prisoners of Norfolk and Suffolk still detained in town, and what
they think should be done as to discharging or continuing them in
prison. |
|
13. Mr. Cawley to have power to write to Stephen Humphreys,
justice of peace in Sussex, to deliver Wm. Perrin and Jno. Browne,
lately apprehended for deserting their colours, to such persons as
beat drums for recruits for Ireland, and to let them know that if
they desert their colours again, they will be proceeded against
according to law. |
|
14. The Admiralty Committee to consider the desire of Mr.
Lawson for an exchange to be made for him, he being permitted to
come over on parole. |
|
15. The petition of Mrs. Barnard, on behalf of her husband,
referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee. |
|
16. To write the Militia Commissioners for Kent to examine the
complaint made against Captain Joseph, and return the examinations. |
|
18. The information against Mr. Dipper, minister of Erith, recommended to the Committee for plundered Ministers, and Sir John
Bourchier to take care of the business. |
|
19. The hangings lately assigned to Sir Wm. Armyne to be
employed to the use of Council in the Queen's Guard Chamber. |
|
20. The hangings lately in the chamber where the officers meet
also to be reserved to the use of Council. |
|
21. Mr. Scutt to provide new chairs for the use of the Admiralty
and Irish and Scotch Committees. |
|
22. The Committee for Examinations to examine Naylor and
Swinborne, secured at York by Alderman Dickenson. [I. 65,
pp. 264–267.] |
April 15.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. There are articles exhibited
to Council against Lieut.-Col. John Rede, Governor of Poole, and
upon other informations against him, we conceive it not fit to
continue him any longer in that place, which is of great importance;
and have therefore thought fit that Major-General Scutt be governor
there, and desire you to send him a commission accordingly. [I. 96,
p. 123.] |
April 15.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-General Harrison. By the enclosed list,
you will see from whence the 2,583 horse and dragoons appointed to
be under your command are to come, and by the copy of the letter
sent to the several places from Council, you will see what direction
they have given, and what you may expect. You are to send
officers to be present at the times and places named in the letter, to
receive the forces and bring them into a body with the rest, to
receive your orders for the service. With note of a similar letter to
Major Desborow for 1,005, and also to Sir Wm. Constable. [I. 96,
p. 123.] |
April 15.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commissioners for Sequestrations and
Compositions, Haberdashers' Hall. We have received such informations of the designs of Denzil Hollis, the Countess Dowager of
Denbigh, and Walter Montague against this Government, that we
advise that their real and personal estates be forthwith secured, for
preventing embezzlement or misconversion. When they appear and
render themselves capable of the justice which their several cases
require, or when they are ripe for sequestration, you shall have the
evidence. Meantime we desire your care in the premises, with all
speed and secrecy. [I. 96, p. 124.] |
April 15.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners. Parliament,
having considered the designs carried on against the peace of the
commonwealth by the enemies thereof, have ordered that the
Council of State shall have power to raise 3,000 horse and 1,000
dragoons for six months, out of the Militia forces of this nation,
commencing from first May next, to be paid as the rest of the
established forces of the army, whereby they may always be in
greater readiness against all attempts than the Militia forces could
be. In pursuance of this order, we desire you to draw forth a
sufficient number of horse of your county, with a sufficient quantity
of serviceable arms, viz., backs, breasts, potts, pistols, and swords, of
those who (being appointed to find horse by the present Act for the
Militia) are persons most disaffected to the present Government, and
to have a special care to make choice of such persons to ride the
said horse as have good affection to the present Government, and
have also had good experience for such service, and are not enlisted
into the army in Scotland. The said horse being so mounted and
armed, you are to cause them to appear at the rendezvous on
1 May next, when officers appointed by Council will be present
to receive them in charge and pay. Use all diligence that the same
may be effected by the time appointed, so that the enemy may not
have an opportunity to effect their designs, for want of a force ready
to resist them. Certify your proceedings in this affair, and what
you have done in pursuance of our former letters, about such
soldiers as have either deserted their colours in Scotland, or stayed
from them beyond the term of their licence. [I. 96, p. 406.] |
| April 16. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State be enjoined,
according to former order, to report their opinion concerning Dover
Castle and a governor there, and that meantime they send for
Capt. Cannon, or any other they think fit, to take care for its present
security and safety. [I. 89, p. 30.] |
| April 16. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Sion College appointed for quartering such soldiers as Col.
Berkstead shall send thither for the safety of the city and parts
adjacent, and special care to be had that the library may be kept
safe, and no injury done to it. |
|
2. The restraint laid upon the Charles at Bristol taken off, as she
is appointed for a convoy. |
|
3. Lord Beauchamp to be sent for and examined by the Committee for Examinations to-morrow, and meantime to see his
physician, in presence of the Lieutenant of the Tower. |
|
4. Col. Oughtred Shuttleworth to have the liberty of the Tower. |
|
5. John Bellasis to be examined by the Committee for Examinations next Friday. |
|
6. Lord Chandos to have liberty to speak with his counsel,
serjeants Glynn and Earle, Mr. Maynard, Mr. Twisden and Mr. Leith,
in the presence of the Lieutenant of the Tower, about a suit he has
now depending. |
|
7. The letter from the Barge master of Rotterdam to the ambassadors of the commonwealth in Holland referred to the Admiralty
Committee. |
|
8. The report concerning Kent to be brought from the Committee
of Examinations to-morrow. |
|
9. Capt. Cannon to be immediately sent down to Dover, to take
care of the castle. |
|
10. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to give instructions to Capt. Cannon
for that purpose, as also to order the withdrawing Lieut.-Col. Needler
from that place. |
|
11. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to take care for the safety of Sandwich. |
|
12. Also to appoint some fit person to view Dover Castle, and to
certify what is fit to be done to make it untenable. |
|
13. The business of choosing a governor for Dover Castle to be
considered this day week. |
|
14. The petition of Isabel Broad referred to the Irish and Scotch
Committee. |
|
15. Order to be given to the Navy Commissioners to forbear the
felling of timber in Marylebone Park until further order. |
|
16. Sir Wm. Waller to be removed from the place where he now
is, and sent to Denbigh Castle, and there secured; Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to take care hereof. |
|
17. Richard Nutt to be discharged from his imprisonment in the
Gatehouse. |
|
18. Sir Walter Vavasor to depart out of London and the limits
of the late lines of communication before next Tuesday, and from thence
to his habitation without any unnecessary delay, and there report himself, according to the directions of the Act for restraining delinquents. |
|
19. The petition of Esayas—referred to the Irish and Scotch
Committee. |
|
20. Order on the petition of Capt. Reeve Williams that the Admiralty judges examine the case, and if they find it ready for letters of
marque and reprisal, grant them accordingly. |
|
21. Col. Wauton, Col. Thompson, and Mr. Carew to send for
Peter Cole and Elizabeth Atkins, examine them upon the complaint
made, and report. [I. 65, pp. 273–277.] |
April 16.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Trustees for the sale of the late King's
goods. There are certain statues at St. James' House that are
worthy to be kept for their antiquity and rarity, and as they would
yield little if sold, we desire you to deliver such of them as Mr. Carter,
surveyor of the works, may select, to be set up [on the grass places]
in the garden at Whitehall. [I. 96, p. 124; 65, p. 246.] |
April 16.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Robert Wallop and Richard Cromwell. You
cannot but be sensible of the great waste there has been of timber
in all places of this nation, and the general want there is thereof,
especially for building ships, so necessary for the defence and trade
of the commonwealth that it deserves your utmost care to preserve
the same everywhere for that purpose. As the New Forest is one
of the principal magazines for timber fit for shipping, and the care
of it is upon you, we recommend you both to inquire into wastes
that have been made there, and to prevent them for the future. If
those spoils proceed notwithstanding, signify the names of the
offenders to Council, with particulars of their offence, that such future
course may be taken with them as shall seem meet. [I. 96, p. 125.] |
April 16.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Twisleton. We are informed by a
petition of some complaints against Capt. Robert Joseph, for miscarriages whereby much discontent has been raised in the country.
Take with you two Militia Commissioners, examine such as can
testify therein, and transmit their examinations to Council, who will
give such order as they think fit. [I. 96, p. 125.] |
April 16.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Revenue Committee. Council considering
the charge for keeping in repair the houses reserved for the use of
the commonwealth, and what has been expended more than has
been paid to the surveyor of works for that purpose, find that
for the work already done, the payment whereof is in arrear since
January last, and what has to be done by September next, 2,000l.
should be paid to Mr. Carter, surveyor-general of works, 1,000l.
for the arrears, and the other 1,000l. by 200l. at a time [on the 5th
of each month] for carrying on the work. You are to issue warrants
for such sums, with special directions that the same may be paid,
or not only many artificers and others will suffer, but the houses
will fall into such decay that it will become a much greater charge
to put them in order. [I. 96, p. 126; 65, p. 277.] |
April 16.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commander of the Charles. We gave
order for your taking charge of some ships as convoy from Bristol to
Milford Haven, but as your ship is one of those appointed for ordinary convoys under the direction of the Navy Committee, that there
may be no disappointment of any orders given you by them, we
retract our order, and leave you to pursue the order of the said
Committee. [I. 96, p. 127.] |
| April 17. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
2. Col. Bingham to give a list of the guns in Guernsey to the
Ordnance Committee, who are to consider of the proportions of those
they shall think fit to be allowed to the several guns, and report
that a warrant may be issued for them. |
|
3. The Lieutenant of the Tower to allow Lord Beauchamp a
servant to attend him, provided he be such as the Lieutenant
will answer for, and none of his Lordship's own servants, and
Lord Beauchamp to be continued close prisoner in the Tower until
this day week, in order to further examination. |
|
4. The letter from the ambassadors in Holland of 11 April, with
the papers from the States-General concerning the Isle of Scilly, and
the copy of what was written thence into Holland, to be reported to
Parliament. |
|
5. The Committee for Examinations to report next Monday the
charge they have against such as have been secured upon the discovery of the conspiracy for an insurrection in several counties. |
|
7. The Admiralty Committee to inform themselves concerning the
truth of the intelligence given of the preparation of men and shipping in Sweden, and thereupon so to appoint the fleet of the commonwealth that prevention may be given to any attempts which
may be made by them upon any part of this nation. |
|
9. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider the particulars
desired in a letter from Scotland sent to Sir H. Vane, and give
orders accordingly. |
|
11. Commission to be given to Capt. Marsh to command a troop
of 93 horse, besides officers, raised out of the militia horse of county
Herts, as their proportion of the 4,000 horse and dragoons. |
|
12. To write Major-Gen. Harrison of the coming of Capt. Marsh
with his troop of horse, and to recommend him as a person fit to be
encouraged. |
|
13. The Middlesex troop of horse to march with the troop of
horse from Hertfordshire to the service in the North, in lieu of the
Lincolnshire troop. |
|
14. The Council to be specially desired to meet next Saturday at
9 a.m. |
|
15. The letter from York of the 15th instant referred to the
Admiralty Committee. |
|
16. So much of the letter of the governor of Nottingham Castle
as relates to Irish recruits referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee. [I. 65, pp. 278–280.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Sir Wm. Constable. Upon considering your
letter, we conceive you may take off Serjt. Humphry Lee's restraint,
on bail with two sureties, himself in 500l., and the sureties in 250l.
each, that he appear at Council when summoned, and be of good
behaviour. [I. 96, p. 127.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners of the Isle of Ely. We
have written you for 24 horse to be raised of the Militia in the Isle,
and appointed them to be joined with the horse of Hertfordshire, to
make up one troop under Capt. Marsh of that county, and therefore
desire they may be ready by the time appointed, and receive orders
from the said captain for their rendezvous and march. [I. 96,
p. 128.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. As there is no present necessity for cutting down the timber marked out in Marylebone
Park for the navy, and those interested in that park beg that it may
be forborne for this year, we desire you to do so until further order,
or until you have given further reason why it should be presently
cut. [I. 96, p. 128.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners county Herts. As
your letter desires, we have given order that a Commission be issued
to Mr. Marsh to command the troop of horse to be raised in your
county, consisting of 93 men, besides officers, to which 24 horse
are to be added from the Isle of Ely. Take care they are ready by
the time appointed in our former letters. As we are informed that
some horses are likely to go from thence which are not sufficient for
their march into Lancashire to Major-Gen. Harrison, you are to take
care that the horses be able for the service, and ready to march at
the time appointed, and we will give direction to those of Ely to be
ready to march when Capt. Marsh shall send them orders. [I. 96,
p. 129.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Commissioners for Sequestrations and
Compositions, Haberdashers' Hall. We have received your letter
concerning the estate of Sir John Gell, but the business being now
in the Court of Exchequer, where some proceedings have been had,
the further prosecution thereof ought to be in that Court, and you
ought not to proceed therein by reason of any intimation from
Council. [I. 96, p. 129.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Col. Blake. We sent you a copy of our instructions to the Lords Ambassadors now in Holland, concerning Van
Tromp's expedition to Scilly; we now send you a copy of the
answer given to their paper put into the States-General, in pursuance
of such instructions, that you may know how that affair stands there,
and how to govern yourself in any transaction with Admiral Van
Tromp, so that this commonwealth may suffer nothing in honour or
interest, or anything pass that should justly give occasion to misunderstanding between the two nations. [I. 96, p. 130.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners of Norfolk. There
has been a petition presented to Council from Giles Van Fussell,
Jno. Van Dorpe, and Charles Francis, prisoners at Norwich taken at
sea, with a certificate from some of the Commissioners of your
county as to the taking of the engagement by the two former, upon
consideration whereof, and of their long imprisonment, we desire you
to discharge Fussell and Van Dorpe. [I. 96, p. 130.] |
April 17.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Treasures at Ely House. Upon considering the condition of Thomas Goffe, soldier under General Whalley,
who, through several wounds received in the service in Scotland, is
so impaired in health that he is wholly disabled from getting his
subsistance, we think care should be taken of him, and therefore
desire you to allow him such pension as may be a livelihood, and
as is usually given to others in a like case. [I. 96, p. 131; 65,
p. 267.] |
| April 18. |
52. Order in Parliament that the 20,000l. charged by order of
Parliament, upon the receipt of Goldsmiths' Hall, and the 10,000l.
charged upon the receipt of Haberdashers' Hall, for supply of the
stores, be paid by warrant from the Council of State; and that the
Commissioners for compounding issue their warrants to the treasurers
of the respective receipts to make payment thereof. [Copy, ½ page;
also I. 89, p. 31.] |
| April 18. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Sir Thomas Ingram to be discharged from the Fleet, having by
his petition acknowledged his contempt of Council by refusing to
answer the question demanded by them. |
|
2. The petition of the two men of Boston referred to the Committee for Examinations, who are to dismiss or bail them as they see
cause. |
|
3. Time to be given to Lady Ingram until next Monday, to send
an account how and by whom she was made acquainted with the
names of some persons who were committed by order of Council. |
|
4. To write to tell the Navy Committee what ships are now
building and built for the service, and to desire them to contract for
the necessary guns. |
|
6. The Act for impressing 10,000 recruits for the service of Ireland referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to consider
as to putting it into execution in such a way and by such proportions as they conceive to be most for the service of Ireland, and to
report with all speed. |
|
7. The letter of Col. Philip Jones from Cardiff, referred to the
said Committee, who are to take care that what remains undone in
sending away the recruits for Ireland receives speedy dispatch. |
|
8. The Committee for Examinations to prepare a letter to Sir Wm.
Constable, in answer to his concerning certain persons secured by
him, directing him as to retaining, bailing, or discharging them as
he finds them on information to deserve, and thanking him for
his care in the service. |
|
9. Council having considered the many contrivances of the enemy
for disturbing the public peace, have thought it necessary for preventing their designs that all persons who have any command of
garrison forces repair to their charges, and attend the duty of their
places, and Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood is to give notice hereof to all
persons concerned. |
|
11. Sir Jas. Harrington and Col. Fielder to bring in a list of the
several garrisons kept up in England, with the number of the forces
in them, and an estimate of the charge; this business to be considered on Thursday, and the members of Council to be summoned
to attend. |
|
12. The Committee for Examinations to give order for securing
the Earl of Bridgwater, Lord Mansfield, and the others taken
prisoners with them, take their examinations, and report them to
Council. |
|
13. Mr. Frost to pay Capt. Geo. Swanley 4l. 18s. 10d. for bringing Birkenhead and Girlington prisoners from Scotland, as also for
carrying Mr. Roberts and his man towards Scotland, by order of
Council. |
|
16. Dr. Brookes to repay to Mr. Jackson the 60l. received by warrant from Council, and Mr. Jackson to deliver up such warrant, and
his receipt upon it cancelled. [I. 65, pp. 283–286.] |
April 18.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lieutenant of the Tower and Mr. Waterton,
justices of the peace. By the inclosed informations, you will understand that there was lately a riotous tumult in Whitechapel, by
some persons living there, the circumstances of which, with the
persons upon whom it was committed, being considered, sufficiently
demonstrate the malignity of the actors, and their disaffection to
the present government. That they may not be encouraged to
actions of this nature for the future, we desire the offenders may be
proceeded against; you are to send for the informers, and examine
them upon oath concerning this matter, as also any other persons
who can testify thereto, and return such examinations to us, and
take bond for the appearance of the actors and witnesses, when
called upon. [I. 96, pp. 131–132.] |
| April 19. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The paper from Col. Abbott, signed by Lord Deputy Ireton, concerning colours for the regiments in Ireland, referred to the Irish
Committee, with the declaration of Council that the State is to be
at no charge in providing them, but if the officers think fit to
provide them at their charge, then the committee are to consider
how the money out of their next pay may be advanced for that
purpose. |
|
2. The 150 recruits also desired by him referred to the same
committee. |
|
3. To inform Sir Robert Meredith, in answer to his petition, that
he is to apply to the Lord Deputy of Ireland, and the commissioners
there. |
|
6. Mr. Frost to pay Col. Bingham 100l. more than was formerly
ordered for contingent expenses. |
|
7. Mr. Weston, prisoner in the Tower, to be allowed to see
his surgeon, in presence of the Lieutenant or whom he shall appoint. |
|
8. The unfixed and unserviceable arms and ammunition under
the charge of the storekeeper of Leicester, belonging to the State, to
be brought up to the Tower, that the arms may be surveyed and
repaired. |
|
9. Also the arms and ammunition in the custody of Richard
Jackman of Aylesbury, co. Bucks. [I. 65, pp. 287, 288.] |
April 19.
Whitehall. |
Instructions by the Council of State for Major-Gen. Thos. Harrison. Council,—finding several pernicious designs carried on by the
enemies for disturbing the peace, particularly in North Wales and
some northern counties, and that not only by discontented parties
there, but also by forces designed from Scotland and the Isle of
Man,—appoint you as commander-in-chief with a competent force,
to endeavour to prevent the mischief designed. To that end, you
are to repair with all speed to the body of horse now in or near
Lancashire, under Col. Rich, and upon your arrival, you are to continue with you three troops of your own regiment of horse, and
send back Col. Rich with his three troops to the Eastern Association,
for further orders. |
|
You are also to receive into your charge the rest of the forces at
present under Col. Rich, as also such other forces as Council shall
send out of the 4,000 horse and dragoons to be raised out of the
militia forces, so as to make up those under your command to 2,500,
and with them, and such other of the forces in the garrisons in North
Wales and cos. Chester, Stafford, Lancaster, Derby, Notts, and York,
as you find necessary,—having regard to the safety of the garrisons,—
you are to take care of those parts, and prevent all disturbance of
the peace, by suppressing all insurrections, and opposing any
attempt of the enemy from the Isle of Man, Scotland, or any other
place. |
|
You are also by all good ways and means to encourage such as
you find well affected to Parliament, and proceed to the disarming
of all disaffected persons, and endeavour to discover and secure all
that hold correspondence with the enemy. |
|
You are to correspond with Sir Arth. Hesilrigge, who has received
directions from Council not only to have assistance from you if
needed, but also to afford you such assistance, with the forces under
his command in the four northern counties, as shall be found necessary, and as the emergency of the service may require. |
|
You are also to give an account from time to time, to Council and
the Lord General in Scotland, of all your proceedings, and observe
such further orders as you may receive from Parliament, Council, or
the Lord General. [I. 65, pp. 289–291.] |
April 19.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners of Surrey. By
your letter to Council on behalf of Wm. Arthur, and by his petition,
we understand he has expended a certain sum some years since, in
buying arms and ammunition for the militia for your county, and
has suffered much by the long forbearance of his money, which,
being disbursed for the public service of your county, he should be
satisfied with some part of it for the present, out of the money in
your hands lately raised for the militia. You are therefore to order
the treasurer of such money to pay 100l. to Arthur on account.
[I. 96, p. 132.] |
April 19.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Sir Wm. Constable. We have considered
yours of the 15th and the enclosed papers, and a letter sent to us
from the Lord Chief Baron referring to those matters, and thank
you for your care. We doubt not but the prisoners, now they are
in the net, can make smooth pretences to procure leave to come out;
but we think fit before they are parted with, that they be dealt
with in the terms and according to the directions in the enclosed
paper. When Lord Windsor and Col. Sandys are brought before us,
we shall shew them cause for this proceeding, and let Lord Windsor
know the like cause of his peremptoriness with you. We like your
caution in disallowing the pretences of Tracie Talbot, and such
others as would be walking out of their tether, as not holding it fit
they should have countenance of such authority for it. |
|
The business touching Worcester is under consideration, and we
know you will have a watchful eye upon it, and all the parts about
you, for prevention of any intended disturbances. Our order is
already sent you touching Humphrey Leigh. We have met with
Lord Chandos at his home near Uxbridge; before our attaching
him, he had conveyed away his horses, oxen, and other things, to
prevent their seizure, which to us argues his small confidence in his
innocence. He is now lodged by us in the Tower. For your further
dealing with any dangerous persons within your reach, we refer
you to former instructions, and know you will not be wanting in
anything which may tend to prevent the dangers threatened. Inform yourself concerning Matchfield House, belonging to Col. Lyggin
in Worcestershire, formerly a garrison for the King, and whether it
has been made untenable, and give a speedy account thereof. [I. 96,
p. 133.] |
April 19.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Army Committee. There being 600 men
to be raised, to be added to Col. Fenwicks' regiment, six serjeants
and six drummers should be allowed to each of the captains
appointed for that service, for the better conduct of those forces;
therefore out of the monies paid to them for that service, let pay
be allowed for such serjeants and drummers, until they come to the
regiment in Scotland. [I. 96, p. 134.] |
April 19.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Sir Arthur Hesilrigge. We have given order
to Commissary Phipps to deliver here 400 muskets and bandoleers,
and 200 pikes, out of those which he is to send to the army in
Scotland, to Capt. Mollins and Capt. Langley, for the 600 recruits
that are to be added to Col. Fenwick's regiment, in lieu of which
we desire you to order that the like number of arms be sent from
Newcastle to Leith for the army, to be made use of in the place of
those here delivered out by Commissary Phipps; take care they may
not be wanting at Leith when the rest of the arms shall arrive.
[I. 96, p. 134.] |
| April 21. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The letter from Hugh Price of Redcastle, with the papers
enclosed, referred to the Committee for Examinations, to do as they
see cause. |
|
4. To inform the Spanish ambassador, in answer to his letter
desiring that the sequestration on Col. Cobb may be taken off,
that Council have no power to intermeddle in anything of that nature. |
|
5. The petition of Thos. Wagg and Rich. Meriton referred to the
Irish and Scotch Committee. |
|
6. Sir Jno. Trevor, Mr. Bond, Major Salwey, and Mr. Darley to be
a committee to confer with the surveyor of the works, concerning
altering of the locks upon the passage doors in Whitehall. |
|
7. The Countess of Castlehaven to be permitted to speak with
Lord Chandos, her brother, now close prisoner in the Tower, in
presence and hearing of the Lieutenant, but not otherwise. |
|
8. The paper returned from the envoy of Portugal, in answer
to Council's last papers, to be reported to the House to-morrow by
Mr. Bond. |
|
9. Order upon the report made by Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood concerning Capt. Sydenham, that he be continued in the command of
the troop to which he was chosen last Saturday. |
|
10. Commissions to be made for all the captains of horse and
dragoons voted this day and on Saturday, as also for their lieutenants and cornets, who are to command the 3,000 horse and 1,000
dragoons to be raised out of the several militias by order of
Parliament. |
|
11. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to give directions to the several captains
of horse and dragoons now voted where they shall take the said
horse and dragoons into their charge. |
|
12. The Militia Commissioners to be further continued commissioners, and to be requested to act according to instructions from
Parliament or Council. |
|
13. The Committee for Examinations, to whom Major Salwey,
Mr. Carew, Mr. Love, and Col. Fielder are added, to consider of instructions to be given to the Militia Commissioners, and likewise of
the persons to be employed as commissioners. |
|
14. The business of the northern prisoners to be considered next
Wednesday, when the Committee for Examinations are to make a
report of their examination of Mr. Cooke and Mr. Berkenhead. |
|
15. 1,000l. to be provided for making quarters for the soldiers of
Col. Berkstead, who is to see to the laying out of the money and
the doing of the work. |
|
16. The petition of John Grice referred to the Irish and Scotch
Committee. |
|
21. To consider to-morrow whether Capt. Younge shall be captain
in the regiment of dragoons, and Major-Gen. Harrison is to name
the other captain if Younge does not hold on for it. |
|
22. To write the Militia Commissioners of the several counties to
return an account with all speed of such arms and ammunition as
have been lately raised and provided for the use of the militia, and
of the colours and trophies, as also of the moneys that have been collected for the service, and what has been expended and what remains. |
|
23. Directions to be given in letters to the commissioners of
such counties as are to find their respective proportions of the
4,000 horse and dragoons lately apportioned, that when they have
selected and delivered over their proportion of horses and arms,
they deliver back the remaining horses to the owners, as also the
arms to the well-affected, and reserve those belonging to disaffected
persons in some secure place, until further order. [I. 65, pp. 292–298.] |
| April 21. |
[Instructions to the Commissioners of Militia.] |
|
24. In pursuance of an order of Parliament of 25 Sept. 1649,
authorising the Council of State to give power and instructions to
such persons within the several counties of England and Wales as
they shall think fit, for preserving peace and preventing tumults,
insurrections, and invasions, Council have resolved upon the following instructions, and have nominated and appointed . . . . .
to put them in execution:— |
|
Imprimis. You or the major part of you shall meet the first
Tuesday in every month, in some convenient place within your
respective counties, cities, and towns, and oftener if need require. |
|
(2.) Before you act upon these instructions, you are to subscribe
the late engagement appointed by Parliament, to be true and
faithful to the commonwealth as it is now established, without
King or House of Lords, in the presence of any three of you, and
then any two of you are to cause the said engagement to be subscribed by such colonels and lieut.-colonels and majors, captains,
and other officers as shall be thought fit to be employed, and by
such common soldiers and troopers as you shall think fit to be
entrusted with arms, and upon recommendation of the officers to
the Council of State, they are to have commissions, if Council
approve them, and then you may grant commissions to inferior
officers recommended by them, if you approve of them. |
|
(3.) You are to inform yourselves of all conspiracies and practices of secret meetings of disaffected persons, and any of you that
are in the commission of the peace are to take informations and
examinations upon oath in writing, as you shall see cause, of words
or actions spoken, printed, written, or published against the peace,
secure and disperse or commit the parties whom you find to be
specially active and dangerous, or use any other lawful means for
dispersing or securing them. |
|
(4.) You are required to disarm, secure, or commit all Papists,
and other ill-affected persons that have of late appeared, in their
words and actions, against this present Parliament or Government,
or who hold correspondence with Charles Stuart, or with any
other person or nation, tending to the disturbance of government,
or raising tumults and insurrections; and for your fuller directions,
you are referred to the several articles, orders, and declarations
made against offenders, herewith printed and sent you. |
|
(5.) You shall inform yourselves what horses and arms are in
your respective counties, cities, towns, &c., and in whose hands,
how and where charged formerly, and to cause such horses and
arms, and all other horses and arms fit for service in your respective counties, cities, &c., to be put into the hands of well-affected
persons and fit for war, upon all occasions of muster and service;
and then train and muster them in several troops and companies,
and form them into regiments, to resist and slay all such as shall
invade this commonwealth, or raise any insurrection or rebellion;
and you shall call to your assistance such persons as you think
fitting that are trusted with the militia, to aid you in carrying on
the work, and shall keep correspondency as occasion shall be,
with the chief commanders of the Parliamentary forces in your
respective counties, cities, or towns, &c., or in the counties, cities,
or towns adjacent, and shall act further as you receive orders from
the Parliament or Council of State. |
|
(6.) As to your directions how to charge the persons of estates
with horse and foot, and in what manner to pay them when they
are in actual service, and for enjoining those that are charged
what orders to observe, with other particulars necessary for perfecting this work, they are at this present under serious consideration, and as soon as they shall be perfected, you shall have
them sent to you; but meantime we desire that all things conducing to the safety of your county, according to the instructions
now sent you, may be carefully attended unto by you. |
|
You shall likewise observe what strangers or persons from other
counties resort into your county, and to what persons they apply,
and inform yourself as to their business and occasions in those
parts; and in case you are not well satisfied with the accounts given,
you are to acquaint Council with their names, and where they are. |
|
That such as are well affected may not be unprovided of
means to secure themselves in times of danger, you are to
present to Council the names of well-affected persons qualified to
be commanders and officers, viz., colonels, lieut.-colonels, majors,
and captains, to list, train, and muster such well-affected persons
as shall voluntarily offer themselves; upon which your recommendation to the Council of State, they are to have commissions, and
you can commissionate the inferior officers. |
|
24. That the 1st, 3rd, and 4th instructions to the Commissioners
of the Militia in the several counties be continued, and they be
exhorted to a careful observance thereof, and of such further instructions as they shall receive from Parliament or Council, and the
commanders and officers of the respective forces of this commonwealth are to aid and assist them in putting the said instructions
into execution. Partly printed. [I. 65, pp. 299–303.] |
April 21.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Committees for Herts, London,
Southwark, Surrey, Essex, Bedford, and Kent. We wrote
you to have a certain number of horse ready to be delivered to
officers appointed to take them into charge, and pay. Out of that
number, you are to deliver to Commissary Phipps—able and
serviceable horse, to he employed by direction from Council; give
him your best assistance for speedy dispatch. [I. 96, p. 135.] |
April 21.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major Harrison at Guernsey. We have
appointed Col. Bingham to take charge of the isle of Guernsey as
governor, and desire you to repair hither, that we may be fully
informed of the present condition of the island, and thereby be the
better able to make provision for its supply. [I. 96, p. 135.] |
| April 22. |
Order in Parliament that the Council of State see the bonds of
Major Poole and his sureties put in suit, and that he be punished
according to his demerits. |
|
Mr. Bond having reported from the Council of State the answers
of the public Minister of the King of Portugal to the last demands
of Parliament, as also to the six articles submitted to him, which
same are satisfactory, except as concerns the time for a cessation to
begin, and the manner of performing the said articles:—Order that
the Council demand a positive answer from the said Minister within
three days, and report the same. [I. 89, pp. 31–33.] |
| April 22. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Order upon reading a letter from Edinburgh of the 15th inst.,
that Capt. Butler have liberty to go to the Lord General in Scotland, leaving his troop in sufficient hands, and that Major-Gen.
Harrison have notice hereof. [Also, Vol. XV., No. 53.] |
|
2. The Admiralty Committee to consider what ships now in
harbour may be made use of, in case of necessity, to be set out for
the safety of the commonwealth, and to compute the charge of fitting
and getting them ready, except putting men, victuals, and ammunition aboard; also to consider where guns may be had for them. |
|
3. The said Committee to appoint such ships as they conceive
fit for guard of the western coast, and if they have appointed
any ships already, to reinforce those orders. |
|
4. The committee which meets with the officers of the army to
consider the desires of the Commissioners of the Isle of Wight, as to
building some Spanish towers there, for its safety. |
|
5. Lord Commissioner Lisle to write Col. Sydenham to certify the
names of those captains of the ships in Cowes Road who refused to
go out when they saw a ship taken. |
|
6. The Admiralty Committee to consider the list of ships for the
summer guard, and finish it, that it may be reported to the House. |
|
9. Lord Bridgwater to be bailed, on bond for 10,000l., with two
sureties in 5,000l., to appear before Council on summons, and not to
do anything prejudicial to the present Government. |
|
10. Also Lord Mansfield, on a bond of 2,000l., with two sureties
in 1,000l. each. |
|
11. Also Hen. Cavendish, on bond of 1,000l., with two sureties in
500l. each. |
|
12. The committee for the business of Law to consider the examinations taken of the Earl of Bridgwater, Lord Mansfield, and Hen.
Cavendish, and what their actions will amount to according to law. |
|
13. The petition of Thos. James referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
14. The petition of the armourers in the Tower referred to the
Revenue Committee. |
|
15. The Ordnance Committee to consider what portion of the
arms, ammunition, &c., formerly contracted for, and now owing for,
was made use of for the service of Scotland, and communicate the
result to the Irish and Scotch Committee, that they may consider
how payment may be made for them. |
|
16. All the members of Council who are in town to attend
to-morrow at 3 p.m. |
|
18. Mr. Frost to pay the sword bearer of the High Court of Justice,
lately sent to Norwich, and the other officers, the amount mentioned
in an order formerly given, out of money in his hands for the use of
Council. |
|
19. The petition of Geo. Miller, Nicholas Brookes, and Geo. Scam
referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
20. The Law Committee to prepare a proclamation imposing a
penalty upon all who presume to hold intelligence or traffic with
James Bunce, late alderman of London, or with—Gibson, now
abroad. |
|
21. Capt. Eyres appointed to command a troop to be raised in
counties Warwick and Montgomery, of the 4,000 horse and dragoons. |
|
22. Mr. Frost to inform [Rich.] Bradshaw of such things as pass
here and abroad, so that he may make use thereof, and to thank him
for his good service. |
|
23. Mr. Margetts to send to Council the books of martial discipline
which have been published by order of Parliament. |
|
24. Major Salwey to prepare a letter to Major-Gen. Harrison, as
to what has been done in appointing officers for the 4,000 horse and
dragoons, who have all been recommended as fit to have com-
mand, but nevertheless to leave him the liberty formerly given to
him. |
|
25. Capt. Cannon to have the same pay as other governors, for the
time he has been employed at Dover Castle. |
|
26. Capt. Stevens, deputy serjeant-at-arms, to bring an account
of his charges in keeping Dr. Swadling to Mr. Frost, who is to pay
what he thinks reasonable. |
|
31. A warrant to be issued for Rich. Smith, master of the Blessing
of London, laden with arms, ammunition, clothes, &c. for the forces
in Ulster, to pass free at the ports, and a Council messenger to be
particularly assigned to follow him till he set sail into the Downs,
to prevent the great prejudice of delay at this season. [I. 65,
pp. 307–313.] |
April 22.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-Gen. Harrison. You will see by the
enclosed list what Council has appointed, in order to completing the
brigade ordered to be under your command; put such things mentioned therein as are left to your care into a speedy and effectual
way of execution. [I. 96, p. 136.] |
April 22.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord General. By the enclosed paper,
given to us by our Solicitor-General, which he received from his
brother in Ireland, you will see the intimation concerning some
diversion to be given to the army of the enemy in Scotland,
by way of the Highlanders, and by the other enclosed copy, what
we have written to the Lord Deputy of Ireland concerning it;
we leave it to him and you to do thereupon as you judge best for
the service. [I. 96, p. 137.] |
April 22.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. There is a party
in the Highlands up in arms against Argyle and the King of Scots,
and the Scots labour all they can to heal those divisions, and to
settle those insurrections. Meantime, before they can compose those
differences, if a party could be spared to be sent thither, to gain a
safe landing place in those parts, in order to a further force to be
sent when it can be spared, it would cause a considerable diversion
of the main army of the enemy in Scotland. You best know the
state of affairs in Ireland, and how what is above propounded may
agree with what you have to prosecute there; correspond herein
with the Lord General, and if he and you think fit, prosecute that
design in such manner as you shall agree upon between yourselves.
[I. 96, pp. 137, 138.] |
April 22.
Ordnance Office. |
54. Geo. Payler and three other ordnance officers to the Ordnance
Committee. We have treated with several artificers in order to
a contract for provisions for furnishing the artillery train for Scotland,
but they refuse to contract except they may be informed when and
where they may have their money, they being much disabled by
reason of the great sums due and unpaid to them, upon contracts
lately made by the Ordnance Committee, which provisions have, for
the most part, been already issued out for the service of Ireland and
Scotland. [¾ page.] |
| April 23. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The petition of John Bowley of London, merchant, with that
of Robert Shutting and Thos. Baddicot, mariners, thereto annexed,
referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
2. That the paper to be sent to the public Minister of Portugal
now read, be translated into Latin, and the English copy signed by
Mr. Frost and sent to him. |
|
4. Mr. Frost to pay 50l. to Lieut.-Col. Roseworm, on account of
his arrears. |
|
5. Lord Grey to make the report to the House concerning
Lieut.-Col. Roseworm with speed, as his necessities are exceedingly
great. |
|
6. The Committee for Examinations to send for the publisher of
last Monday's Intelligence, and examine him as to receiving and
printing a letter from the Hague, and report. |
|
7. The business concerning garrisons, appointed for to-morrow, to
be considered to-morrow week. |
|
8. The report concerning prisoners in Cheshire and Lancashire to
be proceeded with to-morrow, without interposition of any other
business. |
|
10. Capt. Geale to have a commission to command the troop of
horse of Hampton, Capt. Fielder being content to leave that command for the advantage of the service. [I. 65, pp. 316–318.] |
April 23.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners for Westminster
and the Hamlets. We have lately ordered the Commissioners of
Middlesex to raise 119 horse, in which our meaning was that it should
be borne in the whole county, as well that part under the Militia
Commissioners for Westminster and the Hamlets, as the rest of
the county. Confer with the county commissioners, and raise the
proportion that belongs to your division, according as those charges
use to be divided between you, and let the horse be at Brentford on
May 1, to join the rest, when they will be taken into the charge of
officers appointed, and into pay. We enclose a copy of the letter
sent to county Middlesex, and according to its directions, govern
yourselves in raising your proportions. [I. 96, p. 138.] |
| April 24. |
Proceedings in the House, according to former order, upon the
qualifications offered by the Lord Deputy General, and Commissioners in Ireland, and reported from the Council of State, touching
Ireland. A letter from the Deputy-General and Commissioners of
the Parliament in Ireland, and three qualifications, were read and
agreed to; the fourth was read, and it was resolved, that the Earl of
Ormond, Lord Inchiquin, the Earl of Castlehaven, Lord Taaffe,
Lord Dillon, the Earl of Westmeath, Earl of Antrim, and Lord
Moore be excepted in this qualification, and that the Council of
State name other persons to be excepted in the said qualification.
[I. 89, pp. 33–34.] |
| April 24. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Lady Chandos to be permitted from time to time to speak with
her husband, Lord Chandos, now prisoner in the Tower, in hearing
of the Lieutenant, or whom he shall appoint. |
|
2. The petition of Lord Beauchamp, for the liberty of the Tower,
referred to the Committee of Examinations, who are to perfect his
examination, and give notice thereof to the Secretary of Council,
who is to give order thereupon to the Lieutenant for granting such
liberty. |
|
3. The propositions of Col. Scroop referred to the Ordnance Committee, who are to examine the particulars of his desires, and order
as they think fit. |
|
4. Mr. Frost to pay 15l. to Rich. Hampden, draper, for cloth for
liveries, and 5l. 5s. to the tailor for making them, out of the money
for the use of Council. |
|
5. To acquaint the Attorney-General with the desires of the Lord
General for appointing Nath. Mew postmaster from Berwick to
Edinburgh, and desire him to take care thereof. |
|
6. The Committee for Examinations to meet to-morrow at 8
a.m., concerning the matter represented as to the danger of Yarmouth; Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood, and Major-Gen. Skippon to be
present. |
|
7. The Ordnance Committee to consider the Order of Parliament
referring the management of ordnance affairs to the Council of
State, and to prepare results in pursuance thereof to be reported to
the House. |
|
8. The list of names for commission officers for Capt. Marsh's
troop, raised in Hertfordshire, referred to the Committee for the
4,000 horse and dragoons, and if they approve them, they are to
signify it to the Secretary of Council, that commissions may be given
accordingly; Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood is to have this order sent. |
|
10. The petition of John Bellasis referred to the Committee for
Examinations. |
|
11. The report concerning the gentlemen who were secured in
Cheshire, upon discovery of the conspiracy, to be made to-morrow. |
|
12. The last paper received from the Envoy of Portugal to be
reported to the House by Mr. Scott. [I. 65, pp. 319–321.] |
April 24.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Lieut.-Col. Read [governor of Poole]. Having
appointed Major Geo. Scutt to take charge of the garrisons of Poole
and Brown-Sea castle as governor, you are to give him the custody
of the said places, with all guns, arms, ammunition, &c., of war
belonging thereto. [I. 96, p. 139; 65, p. 321.] |
| April 25. |
Order in Parliament,—on report by Mr. Scott from the Council of
State of the answer of the Portuguese minister to the final demands
sent by the Council, which is not deemed satisfactory,—that the
Council demand from him a positive and clear answer to the
resolution of Parliament last sent to him, and if he shall come up
fully and clearly to the said resolution, Council settle both the
manner and time of the performance; but if he shall not do so
within the three days limited, Council are to report, that further
order may be taken. [I. 89, p. 35.] |
| April 25. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Hen. Saer, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to be discharged, signing
his petition, and giving a bond in 100l. to appear before Council
when summoned, and to be of good behaviour. |
|
2. Mr. Frost to prepare a paper to be sent to the public Minister
of Portugal to-morrow, upon the resolution of the House upon his
last paper reported to the Parliament. |
|
4. The Ordnance Committee to treat with such as they think fit
for a supply of powder for the service. |
|
5. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to write Major-Gen. Desborow, in answer
to his letter to Council. |
|
6. The letter from Major-Gen. Harrison to Council referred to the
Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to prepare an answer if any
is needed. |
|
7. The letter of John Barret from Ludlow referred to the Irish and
Scotch Committee. |
|
8. The letter of Sir Wm. Constable from Gloucester referred to
the Committee for Examinations, who are to examine the persons
mentioned therein sent up prisoners, and dispose of them to such
places of security as they find them to deserve, but meantime they
are to continue as they are. [I. 65, pp. 324–325.] |
April 25.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Mayor and the rest of the Militia Commissioners for co. Hants. We find by you where the defect is, and
send the enclosed to supply it. So act thereupon that you provide
the horses mentioned in our former letter, which you may much
more safely do than many other places which have undergone the
militia charge a good space of time, while you have all that time
been free. The proportions already settled for you and other counties may not be varied without inconvenience, all fitting moderation
having been used therein; and for your particular, we doubt not of
your making provision according to the direction already given,
whereof we shall now expect a speedy account. [I. 96, p. 139.] |
April 25.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Army Committee. There has been order
sent by Council, in pursuance of the order of Parliament for raising
3,000 horse and 1,000 dragoons, to the several places where they are
to be raised, to have them ready 1 May next, and deliver them to the
officers appointed. Take effectual order with the Treasurers-at-War
that money may be appointed for their pay, in all places where they
are, that they be not necessitated to free quarter, which will be a
great burden, and greater discontent to the country, and which you
are to take special care to prevent. [I. 96, p. 140.] |
April 25.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Army Committee. In pursuance of the
Act of Parliament for pressing 10,000 men, we have ordered the
Treasurers-at-War to pay such sums to the several counties as we
have given them particular direction for, and that they may be
furnished with money, you are to give them power to charge the
receivers in those counties with sums necessary, which will be repaid
here out of the money assigned by Parliament for that service.
[I. 96, p. 140.] |
April 25.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners for the several
counties. Parliament has thought fit, for the better carrying on of the
Irish service, which is in a good measure advanced, to pass an Act,
of which a copy is enclosed, for pressing 10,000 men for recruits to
the regiments already there; and in pursuance thereof, we have
thought fit that—men, as part of those 10,000, should be raised
and impressed in your county, and conducted to—and there
delivered to such officers as shall be there to receive and transport
them to Ireland. And that your county may be at no charge for
such men, we have ordered that 2d. a mile be allowed, from the
place of impressing to the place where they are to be delivered, out
of which the soldier is to be paid 8d. a day, so that they may pay
their quarters, which you are to command the conductors to take
care is observed; and you are to make choice of such conductors as
will be likely to give a good account thereof, and to see that the
order of Parliament against quartering in private houses is observed;
the rest of the money is for the conductors, and all other charges.
We have taken order with the Treasurers-at-War, that the necessary
money shall be paid you. |
|
That no advantage may be taken by constables or any disaffected
persons to impress or send away persons, either upon particular
ill will, or for their good affection to the commonwealth, and for any
special forwardness to appear in their service, you are to appoint
persons that are honest and well affected to take up such number
of men in the several divisions as you shall appoint, and order
the constables to assist them in bringing the men before you to be
impressed. In the impressing, besides the qualifications of exception
expressed in the Act, you are to take care that such be sent as may
best be spared, and that such as have heretofore freely listed or
manifested their good affection may not be sent. |
|
In case the proportion of money appointed to you shall not be
sufficient to answer the full allowance of 2d. a mile for so many
recruits, on account of what shall be further due, the particulars
being certified to Council under your hands, order shall be taken
to have the same paid to you by the Treasurers-at-War. That
you may the better make your election of the fittest persons, you
are, in the distribution of the numbers charged upon the several
divisions in each of your counties, to appoint such an extra number
to be brought before you that you may make a proper election out
of them. [I. 86, pp. 141–142.] Annexing, |
|
i. Calculation of the charge of levying, impressing, and conducting to the several ports mentioned 10,000 men,
for the service in Ireland, giving the number of men
to be raised in each county, at what charge, and
where they are to be shipped. Conduct money varying
from 2s. a man at Bristol, to 21s. 8d. in Kent. Total
cost, 5,164l. 3s. 4d. [I. 96, pp. 142–143.] |
| April 26. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. The committee for considering the instructions for the Militia
Commissioners to consider what is fit to be done concerning such
money of the month's assessments appointed by the late Act for the
militia as has not yet been levied in any county, or being levied,
has not been laid out for the charges of the militia. |
|
2. The giving out of commissions for a lieutenant and cornet to
the troop of Hertfordshire suspended until next Tuesday, and Mr.
Leman to attend Council next Monday. |
|
3. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to have power to write Capt. Bowles
and Capt. Foach of Kent, to know if they will quit their other
employment to command their troops; and if so, whether they will
be ready to march to any other part with their troops, as they may
receive order. |
|
4. The Admiralty judges to give Col. Heane commission to set
out forces by sea, for fighting, killing, and taking any of the enemies
of the commonwealth. |
|
5. John Bellasis to leave the liberty of the Tower, and notice
thereof to be given to the Lieutenant. |
|
6. Major Lister and Sir Jas. Harrington added to the committee
for the Militia Commissioners, and Mr. Love to take care thereof, and
bring in a report next Saturday. |
|
7. The Lords Commissioners of the Seal, Lord Chief Justice Rolle,
the Attorney-General, Mr. Say, and Mr. Love to consider the law
as to setting a price upon wines, and bring in a report to the House,
for preventing the evil now growing by the great price which is put
upon Spanish wines. |
|
8. The Irish and Scotch Committee to hear the complaint of
Lieut.-Col. Read, after he has obeyed the order of Council in
delivering up the garrison of Poole. |
|
9. The patent for Col. Lewis Chadwick to be Governor of Stafford
Isle, formerly called Santa Lucia, to be fairly written, signed, and
delivered to him. [I. 65, pp. 327–329.] |
April 26.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-Gen. Desborow. It not being yet fully
determined who shall be officers of the troops of dragoons and horse
to be raised in Cornwall and Devonshire, lest the public may
suffer prejudice by not having officers at the respective places to
receive them, you are to appoint officers of your regiment to receive
the horses and men from the Commissioners, and to quarter
them in convenient places till the officers and pay be sent. [I. 96,
p. 144.] |
April 27.
London. |
Levant Company to Thos. Browne. We hear by complaint of
Thos. Bowyer and others of this company, who have entrusted Saml.
Boothouse to inquire after the estate of Wm. Haynes, deceased, their
late factor, and by a letter, &c. from Boothouse, that you owe that
estate 17,000 dollars, and that to avoid payment, you have applied to
the protection of the Dye. Such proceedings are contrary to reason,
and to that trust which, on the engagement of your friends here, we
have, though against precedent, reposed in you. Hugh Norris also
alleges that you will not make good what is owing him. These
actions reflect upon us; though we have ordered your employment
as a public person there, we cannot ratify our resolutions if you
make so bad use thereof. Vindicate your reputation by giving
satisfaction in both these particulars, and by demeaning yourself so
in future that we may not hear any more complaints of this nature.
[Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 173.] |
| April 28. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. Audience to be given to Mynheer Schaeph this afternoon
according to his desire, and notice to be given him hereof. |
|
2. Lord Chandos to have liberty to take the air in the Tower with
his keeper for 10 days, provided he speaks to no one but in
presence of the Lieutenant. |
|
3. Also Sir Abraham Shipman. |
|
4. Also Lord Beauchamp. |
|
5. Lady Beauchamp and one woman servant to have liberty to
be with Lord Beauchamp in the Tower for the 10 days above mentioned, so that she continue there all the time, and speak to no one
but in presence of the Lieutenant. |
|
6. Mr. Say, Mr. Lister, Col. Wauton, Sir John Trevor, Mr. Gurdon,
Mr. Attorney, and Major Salwey to examine the prisoners in town
who had a hand in the Norfolk insurrection. |
|
8. The petition of Sir Edw. Rodney, of Pilton, co. Somerset,
referred to the Committee for Examinations. |
|
9. The letter of Thos. Mason and Thos. Madrine from Carnarvon
referred to the Admiralty Committee. |
|
10. The letter of the Governor of Nottingham Castle referred to
Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood. |
|
11. The letter of Capt. Abraham Wheeler from Bristol referred to
the Admiralty Committee. |
|
13. To write Col. Duckenfield to forbear drawing out the men he
was ordered to send from his garrison to Ireland. |
|
14. Order to be given to Lady Balfour to depart out of the limits
of the commonwealth within 28 days. |
|
15. Such of the intercepted letters from Holland as refer to
designs against the commonwealth referred to the Committee for
Examinations. |
|
16. The Admiralty Committee to consider of some fit ships to be
applied to those ports which were designed upon in the intercepted
letters from Holland. |
|
17. The petition of divers inhabitants of Chichester referred to
the Admiralty Committee, who are to give order for some fit ships
to ply upon those seas, to prevent the evils complained of. |
|
18. The business concerning Wm. Ashurst to be considered tomorrow. [I. 65, pp. 334–336.] |
April 28.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Revenue Committee. A petition from the
poor armourers of the Tower has been presented to Council, and
being sensible of their sufferings, we have transmitted it to you to
further examine the matter, and take order that their arrears may
be paid, they seeming to be in great want. [I. 96, p. 144.] |
| April 28. |
55. Joseph Frost to Sir Arthur Hesilrigge. I have received an
order to deliver to Mr. Hooper all the books and papers in my
custody belonging to the Ordnance Committee, which I shall do
with all speed. The book of their orders is now being transcribed
from the foul notes taken by me when the votes were made; by
reason of the fast making of them, I fear that most of them are not
to be read by any but myself. [1 page.] |
| April 28. |
56. Account by Wm. Somerfeild of provisions delivered out of
the Ordnance stores for land service, from 27 Feb. 1650–1 to 28
April 1651. [1 page.] |
| April 29. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. To write Col. Birch and others, enclosing interrogatories for
examination of Wm. Ashhurst, and if necessary, to take bail for his
appearance when summoned, and good behaviour; but if he cannot
give satisfaction, then to continue him in prison, and send up the
examinations. |
|
2. The same committee who formerly had that business to prepare
instructions to be sent to the ambassadors in Holland, according to
the orders of the House, and to meet to-morrow at 7 a.m. |
|
3. Mr. Thurloe to put in writing his narrative to Council from
the ambassadors in Holland, and deliver it to the said committee,
and also put the narrative of what passed at Landguard Fort by
itself, that it may be sent to that captain by Lieutenant-General
Fleetwood. |
|
4. Lieut.-Gen. Fleetwood to send Mr. Thurloe's narrative to the
captain of that fort, and require him to examine the matter of fact,
and transmit the state thereof to Council. |
|
5. To look out the recognizance which Col. John Booth entered
into upon his last discharge, which was taken before Sir Geo. Booth
in the country and returned hither, and if it is not with Council, to
send to Capt. Bishop for it. |
|
6. To send a copy of Mynheer Schaeph's paper to the Lord Ambassadors. |
|
7. Order—on report of the several cases of the gentlemen now in
restraint in Chester,. Liverpool, &c., upon discovery of the late
northern design,—that they be severally examined upon interrogatories, by commissioners authorised by Council, and that the Committee for Examinations prepare questions according to the respective
charges, and present the names of persons to be entrusted with the
examinations; also prepare letters and instructions, and report to
Council with speed, that upon return of the examinations, further
order may be given touching the said prisoners. |
|
8. Cols. John Booth and Philip Wenman, now prisoners in Liverpool, to be sent up in safe custody to Council, in order to their trial
for treason. [I. 19, pp. 84–87.] |
April 29.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Jas. Powell, Bristol. We have appointed
4,000 men, part of the 10,000 recruits which Parliament has ordered
to be raised for completing the regiments in Ireland, to be brought
to your port, to be thence transported; take up shipping for
their transportation, and provide victuals for them and the officers
that are to receive them from the conductors, and transport them.
See that they are mustered, both on their arrival and on going on
board, and that the people may not be oppressed, their quarters are to
be duly and justly paid, while they wait for wind and weather; that
they may not be an unnecessary burden when as many arrive as
the shipping you have present can take in, send them away, without
anticipating the rest, so that those parts may be eased of them, and
they the sooner in service. We have ordered the Treasurers-at-War
to supply you with money for all these purposes, and recommend
the service to your utmost diligence. With note of like letters to
John Tucker at Barnstaple, for 1,500 men to sail from Bideford; Mr.
Bond for 800 from Minehead; Chas. Walley for 1,600 from Liverpool
and 800 from Chester; Hugh Courtney for 400 from Beaumaris,
and Jos. Watmough for 900 from Milford Haven. [I. 96, p. 145.] |
April 29.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to Major-General Harrison. Council have
thought fit that Col. John Booth, and Col. Wm. Wenman, now
prisoners in Liverpool, be sent up in safe custody to Council, in
order to their trial for the several treasons laid to their charge;
give directions for their being brought up in such manner as you
shall think fit, but so that they may come hither in safe custody,
and not converse together in the way. [I. 96, p. 146.] |
| April 30. |
Council of State. Day's Proceedings. |
|
1. A copy of the articles given in to Council against Lieut.Col. Jno. Reed, late governor of Poole, to be given to him, and the
whole charge transmitted to Major-General Desborow, who, with his
Council of War, are to hear the accusers and the defendant, and
proceed according to martial law; likewise the petition of Lieut.-Col.
Read containing charges against Major Scutt, the present governor
of Poole. |
|
2. Lieut-Gen. Fleetwood, Mr. Love, and Col. Fielder, to confer
concerning a commission to be given to—Alexander, a person well
affected, and an inhabitant upon an island belonging to Hampshire,
to call together the well affected of the place, and exercise them in
arms, that they may defend themselves from the outrages committed
upon them by pirates and sea rovers. |
|
4. The petition from the town of Rye, co. Sussex, referred to the
Admiralty Committee. |
|
6. The letter from the Militia Commissioners of Kent of the 30th
instant referred to Irish and Scotch Committee. |
|
7. To write Col. Bingham, governor of Guernsey, enclosing the
petition of Peter de Beauvoir, and to desire him to examine the
matter upon the place, and report. |
|
8. Mr. Salwey to take the letter from Capt. Hall from Genoa to
Council to the Speaker, and ascertain if he has not also had the like
from him, and if not, to make this one known to the House. |
|
9. To report to the House that Council, finding it necessary that
the officers in town who had command in the army or garrisons
should repair to their charges, gave notice accordingly, and has been
since informed by some of them that they are attending in town
on behalf of some regiments which are not yet satisfied their arrears
by the sale of lands, and cannot therefore go to their charge
without detriment to themselves, and those by whom they are
entrusted; that this stay is by reason that an Act in Mr. Gurdon's
hands concerning that business is not yet passed; and to move
the House to take the same into consideration, that such officers
may be dismissed and repair to their charge. |
|
10. To return, in answer to Sir Theodore Mayerne's petition, that
the matter of it is not cognizable before Council. [I. 19, pp. 87–
89.] |
April 30.
Whitehall. |
Council of State to the Militia Commissioners for Kent. We
have received a printed copy of your order prohibiting all meetings
for bowling, horse racing, &c.; one expression therein is not according to our letter, viz.: "out of their own parishes," and if not
amended, it may give opportunity to tumultuous meetings, by the
confederating of neighbouring parishes, whereby the peace of the
country will be endangered. Peruse the letter of Council sent you
concerning the business, and amend your order accordingly. [I. 96,
p. 146.] |
| [April 30.] |
57. Petition of the major jurats and inhabitants of Rye to the
Admiralty Committee for a small vessel as convoy to their ships,
those coasts being much infested by men of war of the royal party,
who have taken some of their ships, and chased others into their
very harbour, so that their trade is spoiled, and their town like to
be ruined. [1 page.] |
April 30.
Ordnance Office. |
58. Geo. Payler, Jo. Falkener, and J. White to the Ordnance Committee. We have caused the two bell metal and fine glass hand
granado shells to be fixed and proved, and find that the former
are very tough, and break into few pieces, being very uneven in
thickness, so that they are not so serviceable as glass, which we find
do very good execution, though we judge the iron to be far more
serviceable than they. [¾ page.] |
| April. |
59. Order of the Ordnance Committee that the ordnance officers
contract for six new field carriages, for the brass sackers now in
Scotland. [¼ page.] |
| April. |
60. Answer by Geo. Day, gunmaker to the Ordnance Committee.
I can make no abatement in the price of 10s. for new match
muskets, in that of 12s. 6d. for new snaphance muskets, or in
that of 16s. per pair for new pistols; but I can abate 6d. in the
price for old matchlock and dragoon muskets. [¾ page, endorsed
on the previous order.] |
| April. |
61. Return made by Sam. Moyer, on an order from the Navy
Committee of 28 March 1651, of the weekly receipts of customs
from 23 July 1649 to 24 June 1650; by English subsidy, 118,080l. 2s.;
argeire, 1,293l. 7s. 11½d. By strangers' subsidy, 11,549l. 3s. 6½d.;
petty customs, 3,559l. 10s.; argeire, 104l. 16s. 10d. By Spanish
wine, subsidy, 26,695l. 3s. 7½d.; argeire, 141l. 11s. 1d. By French
and Rhenish wine, subsidy, 8,178l. 3s. 9½d.; argeire, 145l. 10s. 8d.
By currants, subsidy, 11,822l. 2s. 1d.; argeire, 235l. 7s. 11d. Total
181,804l. 19s. 6d. [1 sheet.] |
