Volume 182: September 1658, 1-15

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1658-9. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1885.

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'Volume 182: September 1658, 1-15', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1658-9, (London, 1885) pp. 126-139. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1658-9/pp126-139 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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September 1658, 1–15

Sept. 1. 79. Grant by Wm. Ryley, Norroy, to Silvester Petit or Petty, of Bolton in Craven, co. York, of the same arms as granted to his elder brother William, with a mullet for a difference. [1 sheet.]
[Sept. 2.] 80. Petition of Stephen Rogers, mariner of Dover, to the Protector. On the coming of the English forces under the late Sir John Reynolds to Mardike in Flanders, they were in great want of provisions. I supplied with them with butter, cheese, hay, deals, &c., value 866l., and have had several bills of exchange from Reynolds, Col. White, and Maj.-Gen. Morgan, on G. Frost, treasurer for the affairs of Flanders, but have received nothing; and lately I adventured myself and my ship to Ostend, and lost the ship value 600l., saving my life by a miracle.
I have to pay the Prize Goods' Commissioners 540l. for a prize ship I lately bought of them, and as they have sold 2 others for 908l., I beg an order to them to pay me the 866l. [1 page.] Annexing,
80. I. Certificate by Roger Fenwick and 6 others to the truth of the petitioner's services and losses. Mardike, 13 May 1658. [1 page.]
Sept. 2. 81. Reference thereon in Council to the Committee for the Affairs of Mardike, to consider what debts are charged on the proceeds of prize goods, and report. [¾ page; also I. 78, p. 824.]
[Sept. 2.] 82. Petition of sick and wounded soldiers sent from Flanders to Dover to the Protector and Council. We have been carefully attended to by [Edw.] Cooke and his assistants, and our dangerous wounds dressed; but as in our fractured bones many ossicles may exfoliate in this cold piercing air, we beg removal to hospitals in London for further cure. We understand you have ordered the Dover surgeons to take care of us, but one is a public drunkard, and the other too old for employment. We beg consideration, having ventured our limbs against the enemy. 34 signatures, 6 marks. [1 sheet.]
Sept. 2. Reference thereon to the Commissioners for Savoy Hospital and Ely House, to report in writing what they think should be done. [I. 78, p. 825.]
[Sept. 2.] 83. Petition of Edw. Cooke, Rob. Muston, Dan. Storer, and Guy Noble, surgeons, to the Protector and Council, not to be cast off in disgrace, having taken care of the sick and wounded, and not deserved calumnious reproaches. Some of the men are cured and sent back to Flanders, and others are fit to come to London. [2/3 sheet.]
Sept. 2. Reference thereon to the Mardike Committee, the Savoy and Ely House Commissioners to attend, and give order for continuance of the petitioners in their employment, or report. [I. 78, p. 825.]
Sept. 2. 84. Petition of Nathaniel Taylor, Esq., clerk in Chancery, to the Protector, for payment of his arrears of 1,000l. and a settled allowance in future. By order of Parliament of 13 April 1648, all fees payable to officers and under clerks for gentlemen put in the commissions of peace and for dedimus potestatem are to be paid out of the hanaper. The fee is 34s. 10d. for every person, from the 15 Nov. 1655 to the present time, but the Commissioners for the Great Seal scruple about giving warrants for payment from the hanaper, and the profits of the place are otherwise small. [¾ page.] Annexing,
84. I. Order in Parliament of 13 April 1648, alluded to. [4 pages.]
Sept. 2. Note that in Council the question whether the petitioner's case should be committed passed in the negative. [I. 78, p. 826.]
Sept. 2. COUNCIL. Day's Proceedings.
1. A letter from Col. Whichcott, governor of Windsor Castle, of 3 Aug., read.
3. The said governor to keep the prisoners under his charge within the castle, not suffer them to go abroad except to church to attend the public ordinances, and not suffer the Duke of Buckingham to converse with any other prisoners.
4. A letter from John Jennens and Edm. Whitefoot, two justices of the peace for Maldon, Essex, in answer to Council's letter of 3 Aug. 1658, about their refusing to sign a warrant on behalf of the Commissioners for Excise of ale and beer, and also the petition of the said Commissioners read, and referred to Strickland, Sydenham, Mr. Comptroller, and Wolsley, to hear the Commissioners, send for whom they think fit, and report.
Sept. 2. 5. To advise a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay Edw. Backwell 350l. in satisfaction of 345l. disbursed by him 6 July last for a jewel bestowed by his Highness on the person sent by the King of France, with a letter to his Highness signifying the surrender of Dunkirk, and of 5l. for his pains, with interest thereon till paid.
9. Thos. Fauntleroy, deputy of Denis Bond, clerk of the Pells, who is deceased, to execute the office until some other person is appointed.
10. The Mardike Committee to consider what sum may be assigned, from the money raised on the New Buildings' Act, to make up the residue of 2,986l. payable by Mr. Hodges, treasurer of the Jamaica forces, for paying the last orders issued; also to send for the New Buildings' Commissioners; and enquire what remains unpaid out of the half of the said money, of the sums lent to his Highness by some aldermen of London, quicken them to get in the money due, speak with the aldermen about suspending payment of part of the debt, and thereupon assign so much to the use of the said forces; the Committee to meet this afternoon.
11. On receipt of a report from the said Committee, order that out of the 122l. 1s. 7d. ordered 17 Aug. last to be paid by Maj.-Gen. Kelsey and Capt. Hen. Hatsell to Jessop, clerk of Council, he return 4l. 12s. to Kelsey, 3l. 1s. to be paid to Capt. John Wilson, in discharge of an account for the removal from that castle to Mardike of 1007 shovels, 649 spades, and 200 pickaxes, and 1l. 11s. to Fras. Simpson, Admiralty serjeant at Dover, for gathering up at Dover 700 pikes and muskets left there in May 1657 by Sir John Reynolds' forces.
15. 85. On information that 10 of his Highness's ships are now on service on the coast of Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean, the Admiralty Commissioners are to order the 10 ships most unfit to stay abroad for the winter to be called home, and the other 6 to have such supplies as shall enable them to continue in the service.
18. Order to recommend to the Trustees for Maintenance of Ministers to settle an augmentation of 40l. a year on Step. Young, preacher at Rosecrowder, co. Pembroke. Approved 3 Nov.
19. Also 40l. on the minister of Over, co. Cambridge. Approved 3 Nov.
22. Whereas on 26 Aug. last, Thos. Player, chamberlain of London, was ordered to pay into the Exchequer the money in his hands belonging to Mich. Berkley, late felo de see; as it appears by a paper now presented by the City Remembrancer that, by bond dated 5 Aug. 1648, the city owed Berkley 500l., by another of 13 July 1657 300l., and by another of 14 Dec. 1657 100l., which last he assigned to his servant Frances Knight for her faithful service—order that the other two sums, amounting, with interest, to 831l. 10s., be paid by the chamberlain into the Exchequer.
24. The Mardike Committee to enquire how it stands as to the arrears of pay to the surgeons who attended the sick and wounded soldiers brought from Flanders to Sandwich and Dover, consider of a supply to satisfy them, and report. [I. 78, pp. 820–827.]
Sept. 2.
Whitehall.
Pres. Lawrence to the Protector and Council in Scotland. Your letter of 5 Aug., about his Highness's interest in Kinneil, Scotland, adjudged to him as the estate of Geo. Bilton, late deputy Treasurer-of-war in Scotland, for a debt owing to his Highness; also about the cases of Gen. Monk, Lord Cooper, and Rich. Saltonstall; have been considered and debated in Council; but before they give judgment, they wish you to reconsider the matter, and inform them about,—
1. The true state of the incumbrances of Kinneil by the debts to Monk, Cooper, and Saltonstall, chargeable when it was passed to Bilton by Capt. Benj. Bressey, and how they remained a charge on the estate.
2. The particulars of Bilton's disposition of the coal and salt works at Kinneil to his brother John, and what the law of Scotland is thereon, as it seems to Council that this disposition, being made when Bilton was an accountant to the State, cannot disturb his Highness's interest.
3. What is the yearly value of the estate, and how soon would the profits, if so applied, pay the incumbrances?
4. What part of the debts to Monk, Cooper, and Saltonstall are paid or remain unpaid?
5. Whether, when they are paid, his Highness may by law charge the whole estate with payment of the 16,500l. owing on Bilton's account, without intervention of any other interest? [I. 78, pp. 821–823.]
[Sept. 3.] (fn. 1) Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
The Lord Protector being deceased, Richard, Lord Protector, his successor, declared; papers concerning the succession. [Cols. 31, 32, 35.]
Council to give his Highness an account of his being declared successor. [Col. 7.]
His Highness's [Rich. Cromwell's] proclamation signed, and communicated to the Lord Mayor; 4 heralds to attend him at its publication. [Cols. 25, 32.]
The London militia to secure the peace of the city. [Col. 25.]
Order that the army officers have his Highness's death communicated to them. [Col. 2.]
Letter to the fleet in the Downs about his Highness's death. [Col. 15.]
Letter to the Lord Deputy and Council in Ireland. [Col. 22.]
Embargo laid on the ports. [Col. 22.]
Proclamation and order on his Highness's death communicated to the London militia.
Letter to the Council in Scotland, and a general letter about the Lord Protector's death. [Col. 36.]
Letter to the judges to come to London. [Col. 22.]
The [late] Lord Protector's body to be embalmed. [Col. 32.]
[Sept. 3] Two letters to the garrisons about his late Highness's death. [Col. 18.]
Letter to Lord Ambassador Lockhart about his late Highness's death. [Col. 25.]
[Sept. 4.] Oath of the Lord Protector. [Col. 31.]
His Highness takes the oath offered. The Lord Mayor of London present. [Cols. 32, 25.]
The Earl of Lauderdale to remain at Windsor. [Col. 25.]
Proclamation for continuing persons in Government [offices]. [Col. 32.]
Oath of the Lord Protector subscribed. [Col. 31.]
Proclamation of his Highness in the counties, and letter accompanying it. [Col. 32.]
Letter to the Lord Deputy of Ireland. [Col. 22.]
20,000l. allowed to the dowager of his late Highness. [Col. 9.]
Reference about the funeral of his late Highness. [Col. 15.]
Fast declared by Council, ministers to attend. [Col. 15.]
Reference about the collecting moneys for Glaston. [Col. 18.]
The embargo laid on the ports taken off. [Col. 22.]
Lord Sinclair to continue at Windsor. [Col. 36.]
Somerset House to be cleared. [Col. 36.]
The ambassadors and public ministers to have notice of his Highness's decease. [Cols. 1, 27.]
The rooms to be furnished for the funeral of his late Highness. [Col. 15.]
Treasury payments to be continued. [Col. 40.]
The report about the Bermudas to be brought in. [Col. 3.]
The bonds in Dr. Barnard's hands of Mich. Berkley, felo de se, to be delivered up. [Col. 3.]
Lord Desborow's troop ordered to Flanders; Col. Guibon to transport it, and make account to the clerk of Council. [Cols. 9, 18.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 1–23.]
Sept. 6. 86. Order in Council that the Admiralty Commissioners order the Ordnance officers to issue 40 barrels of powder to the London militia, for supply of the 40 companies of militia forces in London for the present service. [2/3 page; also I. 84, col. 26.]
Sept. 6.
Whitehall.
87. [Richard, Protector] to the warden and fellows of the college near Winchester, earnestly recommending _ to succeed Dr. Wm. Burt as schoolmaster, not doubting but he will discharge his trust with satisfaction. Also,
The Protector to the sub-warden, fellows, and scholars of St. Mary's College by Winchester, approving the election of Wm. Burt, D.D., to the wardenship of their college, void by death of John Harris, D.D., to which he is elected by the fellows of New College, Oxford. [1 page.]
Sept. 6.
Nantwich,
The Gore.
88. Capt. B. Gilpin to the Admiralty Commissioners. On the 23rd ultimo, I received order from Col. Rob. Blake to sail to and lie off the Willings, and receive on board the Lord d'Estrades and the Marquis Velaquere, who would come off in a boat from Flushing, and land them at Calais; but in case they should desire me to come to Flushing, so that they might the more securely come on board, I was to follow their directions. I received a letter on the 25th to come in, as they dared not venture to come off in a boat, and thereupon I went in and anchored before Flushing, where I was detained by storms and contrary winds until the 3rd inst., when I got to sea, and lay the following day off Nieuport, where I received an order from Rear-Adm. Bourne to repair to Woolwich, which I will do with all speed. I landed the French ambassador at Calais yesterday, and then made for the Gore, where I anchored, to wait for the next tide to get over the Flats. [1 page.]
[Sept. 7.] 89. List of their Highness's private family,—
6 gentlemen,
21 other male servants,
5 gentlewomen,
4 maid servants,
3 attendants at Hursley, about the children.
[1 page.]
Sept. 7. 90. List of persons appointed to have mourning [for the late Protector,] approved by Council, viz.:—
The Lord Mayor and city officers, 9 yards each, and 80 other persons of London, 4 yards each.
Master of the Rolls, and 8 clerks in Chancery, 9 yards proposed, reduced to 6.
Clerks and other officers in Chancery.
Sir Oliver Fleming, master of the ceremonies.
The clerks, under-clerks, treasurer, solicitor, messengers, &c., of Council.
Latin Secretaries, John Milton and And. Marvel, 9 yards proposed, reduced to 6.
3 clerks of the Signet, 2 of the Privy Seal, and 1 of the House of Commons.
4 serjeants-at-arms and 10 deputies.
29 watermen.
Officers and servants at Somerset House.
5 ambassadors and agents, and consuls abroad.
3 messengers of Chancery and Exchequer.
All the judges and justices, Exchequer, and other law officers.
2 printers to his Highness.
Judges and officers of the Admiralty Court.
3 preachers, Lockyer, Sterry, and Peters.
4 doctors, Glisson, Prujean, Bathurst, and Staines.
[6½ pages.]
[Sept. 7.] 91. "Mr. Kinnersley's proposal about cloths of estate." In former times, every presence chamber, drawing chamber, and privy chamber, had cloths of estate, and chairs, stools, and cushions of velvet; if these are wanting, the rooms will lack much of what many subjects have, for every Earl may have a cloth of estate. If enough velvet is not to be had, 2 might be of velvet, 1 for the hearse and 1 for her Highness, and the others of cloth.
There should be in Whitehall and Somerset House 7 cloths of estate, 5 of cloth and 2 of velvet, though if possible, his Highness should have 1 of velvet. [2/3 page.]
[Sept. 7.] Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
10,000l. to be paid to John Maidston for mourning out of any moneys, in 8 months. [Col. 27.]
Thos. Pigott's petition and letter to Mr. Edwards. [Col. 32.]
The coming up of Justice Atkins dispensed with. [Col. 1.]
Lord Amb. Lockhart's letter about the proclaiming of his Highness read. [Col. 26.]
Petition and letter of the Earl of Rothes about sequestration of his estate. [Col. 35.]
Case of Mr. Ramsden of York referred. [Col. 35.]
200l. a year salary, and 50l. in advance, for Sam. Lowe, minister for Dunkirk. [Col. 26.]
31l. 5s. to Mr. Marshall from Prize Goods. [Col. 27.]
3,700l. transmitted to the Protestants of Poland. [Col. 32.]
The bailiff of Yarmouth to proclaim his Highness. [Col. 45.]
500l. to be paid to Major Burton for coals, &c., for Mardike. [Col. 3.]
1,500l. to Mr. Lodington for Flanders. [Col. 15.]
500l. of Berkeley's money for Capt. Lodington. [Col. 25.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 24–28.]
Sept. 7.
Great President,
Off the Southern
Cape.
92. Capt. Rich. Potter to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have been plying in my station with the Colchester, and chased two frigates belonging to St. Sebastian's, one having 30 guns and the other 26; but night coming on, I could not get up to them; I forced them into very shallow water, and at 10 p.m. came within shot of them. I kept firing until 2 a.m., when I forced the frigate of 30 guns on shore, but the other rowed and got away. As the day came on, I endeavoured by warping to get nearer, so as to get her off, but they, seeing my intentions, set her on fire. I stayed until she was wholly destroyed. Her captain was called Long Jacob.
I have not seen the 5 sail mentioned in your orders, and the Portland has not arrived. I hear the Spanish West India fleet is expected home the beginning of November. My time appointed for this station being out, I am plying towards the Northern Cape to find Capt. Smith. The frigate that got away is called the Dart, and there was another small frigate of 12 guns, that was fitted at Cadiz, which I fear will annoy the merchantmen, as they intend lying off the Southern Cape. No Spanish West India ships have yet come in, and only one from the Havannah, with tobacco, hides, and wood. [1 page.]
Sept. 7.
The Selby,
Isle of Wight.
93. Capt, Saml, Higginson to the Admiralty Commissioners. I was ordered by the Rear-Admiral to convoy several ships from the Downs to Morlaix and the west parts. I have been forced by contrary winds into the Roads, where I found the Portsmouth, with several ships under her convoy, all of which have to-day been stopped by an embargo, I hope the Lord will comfort your spirits, after your great sorrow for the loss of that worthy and famous instrument of God's glory, and the comfort and happiness of the nation. [½ page.]
Sept. 8? 94. Petition of the warden and fellows of New College, Oxford, to the Protector Richard. We had a letter from your late father, requiring us to desist from the election of the warden of Winchester College, in answer whereto we sent him a petition, which he was too ill to receive. We beg you not to think us disobedient or perverse, in that we were obliged so to act. [1 page.] Annexing,
94. I. Petition of the warden and fellows of New College to Oliver Protector. On Friday, 27 Aug., the day before that appointed by statute for the election, you required us not to choose a warden of Winchester College, lest your right should be prejudiced. Had this not been a manifest breach of our statutes, we would have yielded our pretensions to you, for whom we would yield life and fortune, but we could do no other than elect, without breach of statute, and we hope you will approve our choice. [2/3 page.]
Sept. 8.
Whitehall.
95. Richard, Protector, to the electors of the college near Winchester. William, son of Sir Thos. Parker, of Sussex, is a hopeful scholar in your school, and fit for translation to New College, Oxford. Our late father took great care of his preferment, and therefore we commend him to your suffrages for this next election. Also like note commending the election of an orphan not named to the college near Winchester. 13 Sept. 1658. [1 page.]
Sept. 8.
Swiftsure,
Downs.
96. Rear-Adm. Jno. Bourne to the Admiralty Commissioners. Particulars of ships. I have received yours, acquainting me of the death of his late Highness, and of the proclamation of his new Highness. I have acquainted the respective commanders with both, and although we cannot but bewail the loss of that eminent servant of the Lord and choice instrument, whom the Lord hath taken to himself, yet cannot withal but admire the goodness of God to this nation, in composing the spirits of all men that I hear of to acquiesce sweetly in the succession of his Highness that now is, which does without question much disappoint the expectation of the common enemy, who have long promised themselves an opportunity of this, and it is a very great evidence that the Lord has not forsaken the nation.
As for the commanders of the fleet, you may be fully assured that our spirits do freely and cheerfully close with this providence, and do much rejoice in the goodness of God to us and the nation therein, hoping that the Lord will graciously continue His wonted presence with this present Governor and government. We shall, in our respective places, approve ourselves faithful and diligent, conforming to the duty that is incumbent on us. On the receipt of yours, we made bold to manifest the truth of our affection by the expense of some powder from the several ships in the Downs, which I humbly desire may be well resented.
Yesterday a Fleming arrived here from Norway, which met a galliot hoy from the Sound, the master of which informed him that the Swede had closely besieged Copenhagen with an army by land, and a fleet of 30 sail by sea. I send intelligence received from the captain of the Drake, who has lately come from Dunkirk. I have sent the Adventure to Chatham, and the Swiftsure will soon follow. [2 pages.]
Sept. 9.
The Assistance,
Ostend Road.
97. Capt. Thos. Sparling to the Admiralty Commissioners. I formerly gave you an account of what befel us in the late storm, by which I could not but question the security of the Cornelian, who got well into Flushing and has returned safe, with the loss of only her anchor and cables. I have supplied her out of the Expedition and Assistance, so that she will now be able to endure this coast until her provisions are expended, if winter does not approach too fast. I received the enclosed the 7th inst., for the observance of which I have no order; nevertheless in regard the Expedition was to be dismissed from this station through her defects, and there is the precedent of Capt. Blake having sent the Nantwich on the same account, I have ordered the Expedition to answer the contents of those letters, and to repair to the Downs for further orders; but her provisions end the 18th inst., and she has but 45 sound men.
If there were any probability of doing any service here, I should request that a competent number of frigates might be ordered here to carry it on, but I discern so little that I am of opinion there are too many already, which is only myself and the Cornelian. It is true there are 3 frigates ready to sail, and if they could be prevented it would be well, but they will suddenly make their escape, do what we can. If I am to observe any orders from Mr. Downing, resident at the Hague, while here, mention it in your next, or I shall take no notice in future. I shall be forced off through want of water about the 13th inst., and intend making use of Dover Road or the Downs, according as the wind presents. Our men fall sick daily; there are a considerable number down already, and it is questionable if some will recover, notwithstanding that I cleared all my infirm men at Portsmouth, and shipped young able-bodied men in their stead. [1 page.] Enclosing,
97. I. G. Downing to the commander-in-chief of the fleet before Ostend. Warrant to send a frigate to Flushing, to transport Mons. De Lionne, late French ambassador extraordinary at Frankfort, and his retinue, to Dunkirk, Calais, Boulogne, or Dieppe, as he shall desire. The Hague, 2/12 Sept. 1658. [¾ page.]
97. II. M. de Lionne, ambassador from France to Germany, to Capt. Sparling. I trust you will grant the request for a frigate for me as quickly as possible, for which I shall ever be grateful, and the King, my master, will thank the Protector. I beg you to choose one of your best vessels, and best armed. 7/17 Sept. 1658. [1 page, French.]
Sept. 9.
The Paradox,
Milford.
98. Capt. Rich. Cowes to the Admiralty Commissioners. After tallowing and victualling, I sailed from Milford with 4 vessels bound for Ireland, put into Kinsale, and then plied over to Lundy and the Irish coast, and thence to the Land's End, putting into Caldy Road by foul weather. Afterwards I transported Dr. Worth to Ireland.
I have had notice from the governor of Tenby of the decease of his Highness, the Lord Protector, and that his Highness, Lord Richard Cromwell, was happily established in his father's stead, and I immediately declared the same to the company, giving them to understand that for the future, they were to own and serve his said Highness as their lord and master, to which they readily assented, and in testimony of his and their unfeigned love and loyalty to his Highness that now is, I have held it my duty to signify our proceedings in the premises. I will set sail the first opportunity.
I have not seen or heard of any of the enemy's ships on this station. I hope to prevent their frequent robberies. [1 page.]
Index entry of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
Sept. 9. Lee and officers to be arrested for new buildings. [Col. 3].
Information by Matt. Greg, &c., against Sir Hen. Walpole, D. Howes, and Chas. Dymock. [Cols. 43, 20, 9].
[Missing Order Book, p. 29.]
Sept. 9/19.
Whitehall.
[Admiralty Commissoners to Capt. Stoakes, commander of the Mediterranean fleet.] We wrote you his Highness's resolution to continue a squadron of ships in the Straits this winter, and that 3 were to be sent home in lieu of the like number with you that were unfit to stay abroad, also that they would bring 1,900 men's victuals for 3 months; but Council has now ordered that only 6 frigates be kept abroad this winter, and that the rest be called home; so we shall despatch the Tiger and a victualler, and on their arrival, you must select 5 of the frigates, which with the Tiger may complete your squadron, and send the rest into the Downs.
In the victualler we have sent the victuals named, and boatswains', gunners', and carpenters' stores, which will supply your lessened squadron, and enable them to keep at sea, and protect trade, much annoyed by the Majorcans and other pirates in those parts. Note of Cromwell's death. By advice of Parliament, he had left the government of these nations to his eldest son Richard, who was proclaimed the day after by Council, the chief officers of the army, the Lord Mayor, aldermen, and citizens of London, as you will see by the enclosed print, and the like has been done by most of the corporations of England. It is an unspeakable mercy that in such a juncture, notwithstanding the several parties and interests amongst us, there should be such a general acquiescency of spirit in this settlement, without opposition, and all remaining quiet. We trust the present Protector will carry on the great work.
Notes of foreign intelligence. We trust you will so represent the state of affairs here to all the commanders with you that they may be encouraged to continue in their duty, and show the same loyalty to the present government as has appeared amongst the officers of the fleet in the Channel. [2 pages, partial copy; with letter of 29 July 1658. French correspondence.]
1658.
Sept. 10/20.
Whitehall.
Sec. Thurloe to Capt. Whitstone, Marseilles. On your complaint of more than usual strictness, I have written to Mr. Aldworth to procure the English ships the continuance of their privileges.
On 3 Sept. it pleased God to put a period to the life of his Highness, the saddest thing which could have befallen this nation, However, the Council unanimously witnessed that, before his death, he declared Lord Richard his right and undoubted successor, and accordingly on the 4th, they had him proclaimed at Whitehall and Westminster, and themselves accompanied the solemnity to London, where it was received with demonstrations of satisfaction, and as much rejoicing as such a season could admit. The army officers have been no less united, all admitting that whether according to law, their duty to his father, his own merits, or the security of the whole nation, nothing could have been pitched on more universally acceptable and necessary than this succession. The same afternoon he took his oath as Protector before the Council and the Lord Mayor and Aldermen in Whitehall, so that we are advanced to a settlement. [¾ page, copy, French correspondence.]
Sept. 11.
The Assurance,
Scarborough.
99. Capt. Phil. Holland to the Admiralty Commissioners. Though delayed by storms, I convoyed over the Hamburg ships as far as Gluckstadt, having heard that Capt. Collarto was upon the river Elbe, and had taken 2 Hollanders, which he sold, and I feared he might seize upon them within a. league or two of Hamburg, as he did at Cascales, near Lisbon, on 22 Nov. 1655, there being no ships there to oppose him, only Gluckstadt Castle, which he would not have valued.
The Swede and Dane are reinvolved in another war, likely to be more bloody than the former. I forbear a relation, having sent the enclosed, which is the best intelligence I could get at Hamburg. I cannot understand who was the occasioner of it, some pitying the Dane, and others justifying the Swede; but if true, as is generally reported, treachery will evermore be requited with misery, prosperity most certainly attending the path of honesty. They say that the Dane, understanding the Swede's intentions to drain his towns, garrisons, and places, taken in Denmark, of some of their forces on some other design, plotted, when they had so done, to attempt the surprisal of the same, which being weakened, might have been effected; all which the Swede found by the interception of some of the Dane's letters purporting the said design. The Danish ambassadors demanding the reason of his reinvading their country, the Swede produced these letters, and thereupon they had not a word to say in vindication of their King. But the truth hereof I could have been more largely satisfied in, by the King of Sweden's declaration, which I could have had if my occasions would have permitted me to stay a day longer.
I could not credit, until confirmed here by a cloud of witnesses, the news which put a stop to the joys of the good people of this nation, namely, the decease of his Highness the late Lord Protector. "Oh! what remains for me or others who truly love the prosperity of this Commonwealth, but that we speak our dear affections in the most sad interjections of sighing! Surely malice is not so ignorant, or at leastwise so impudent, but with some regret of spirit, if they will not sorrowfully confess his loss, yet they must acknowledge his worth, valour, wisdom, and piety, which others have known, and themselves have found confirmed by so many signal dispensations of Providence. Although strange to ingenious spirits that there should be a generation of men can permit the worthies and righteous of our age to go without taking the same to heart, yet, nevertheless, I hope it will somewhat moderate and alienate the burden of good men's griefs, in that only his body hath left us; his pious fame and worth still survive in his son and successor, whom I beseech the Almighty to assist with the same graces and qualifications fit for government." [2 pages.] Enclosing,
99. I. Intelligence from Hamburg that on Saturday last, an express came from the King of Sweden, with letters of 25 Aug., stating that he continues the beleaguring before Copenhagen, that he has approached nearer the walls, and that there is great probability the siege will take good effect. A letter from a neutral person out of the Swedish leaguer before Copenhagen, of the same date, says that the Danes defend themselves valiantly, and that of late they have twice fallen with strong parties into the Swedish leaguer, and have killed a great number of the Swedes, besides many wounded and taken prisoners, and that in this fight a great Swedish officer, called Svento Bannier, was killed. The Danes have burnt the suburbs of Copenhagen, and it seems they go about the work so as to make the Swedes pay dear enough the taking of Copenhagen, which is infallible if the Danes get no relief.
The Swedish fleet of 26 ships are yet before Copenhagen, and the King of Denmark is resolved to perish upon the walls. It's thought the Swedes will not get the town so easily as they imagine, because the King of Denmark had warning from a private man of the Swede's intention, 5 days before the King of Sweden arrived with his fleet in Zealand.
On 6 Sept. a letter came from Stade that the Swedes had taken Cronenburg by storm, and killed all the garrison in the castle, as also some taken; but this news is doubtful, as there are no letters from the King of Sweden about it.
Letters from Berlin mention that the Duke of Brandenburg's forces have marched into those parts 5,000 strong, have already passed the river Oder, and got as far as Goritz, and that the Duke of Brandenburg intends to make the Swedes a diversion, marching into Bremen, and so to draw the Swedes off from the beleaguring of Copenhagen and Cronenburg. It is also said that the Roman Emperor has sent Monto Cuculli with 6,000 men to relieve the Dane. Hamburg, Sept. 7, 1658. [1 page.]
1658.
Sept. 18/23.
Ostend.
100. Charles Flamborough to Capt. Hamilton (Chelsea College). We spoke with the merchant and the skipper who are in prison here, and as soon as we can get more masters, we shall keep them fast for you, and I shall do my best for you, as if you were my brother. To-morrow I go to sea northward with Capt. Tison.
The French and English armies have taken Owenarden and Menon, and Ypres is very weak; the Spanish army thought to take Menon again, but now they have lost all their courage in Flanders, and we think all is forlorn. There is a writing come over to Mr. Aspell concerning the release of Joas, and what money you lay down for his release, I will repay when you come out. One of the masters of the ship called the Treasury is making a ship for Capt. Hamilton. [1 page, Dutch.]
Sept. 13/23. 101. Translation of the above. [¾ page.]
Sept. 14. 102. Petition of divers inhabitants of Botolph's without Aldgate, Portsoken ward, London, who were in the trained bands under Col. Thompson for relief of Gloucester, to the Protector. The remnant of us who, by God's providence, were preserved in the memorable battle of Newbury, have ever since set apart the 20th of September, the day we were engaged at Newbury Wash, to thank the Lord for our deliverance, and have had a sermon preached, till last year; when, having chosen our lecturer, John Simpson, our minister, Zachary Crofton, would not allow him to come into the pulpit, and we were forced to adjourn to an adjacent parish church. The said day being now at hand, we beg an order that Mr. Simpson may preach at 10 a.m., Mr. Crofton having declared that Simpson shall not preach that day without your order. [¾ page.]
Sept. 14. Note of reference of the petition. [I. 84, col. 3.]
Sept. 14. 103. Col. Thos. Fitch, governor of Inverness, to Lord Deputy Fleetwood. There being great want of cheese, peas, &c., in the stores, and this the time for laying them in, I have ordered my Lieut.-Colonel to buy some. I send a note of what the stores in Scotland cannot afford, and beg a Council order to have them from the Tower, to come in the ship that brings the provisions. It is seldom a ship comes direct without being hired on purpose, and therefore I wish to take this opportunity. Inverness Citadel, 30 July 1658. [1 page.] Annexing,
103. I. Notes by Thos. Dodson, plumber, and John Ball, gunner, of stores required for Inverness Castle and Citadel. [1½ pages.]
Sept. 14. 104. Reference thereon in Council to the Admiralty Commissioners, to consider the defects of the garrison, and report. [¾ page.] Annexing,
104. I. Report of the said Commissioners, 22 Sept., that as the Army contingencies, which are at General Monk's disposal, are intended, to defray the charge of the citadels and forts in Scotland, and as powder, &c., is sent to Monk for the forces, he should supply the wants of Inverness. [¾ page.]
Sept. 14. 105. Order in Council that the pay for Vice-Adm. Godson, from his going the last expedition on the coast of Flanders, be 40s. a day, and the Admiralty Commissioners give warrant to the Navy Commissioners for its payment. [2/3 page.]
[Sept. 14.] Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
Debate on money (renewed 4 times). [Col. 27.]
The under-sheriff of Rutland to proclain his Highness. [Col. 35.]
Letter to Northampton to proclaim his Highness. [Col. 29.]
Orders about removing the body of his late Highness. [Col. 15.]
800l. to be imprested to John Maidston for mourning. [Col. 27.]
Petition of Major Walters and the owners of the John Baptist, referred. [Col. 43.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 30–34.]
Sept. 15/25.
Whitehall.
Gen. Ed. Montague to Capt. Stoakes, commander-in-chief of the fleet in the Mediterranean. The Lord has established the Protector in the government of these nations, and disposed all to dutiful compliance, whereby the peace and liberty enjoyed under his father are continued to us, notwithstanding our fears, and the threats of the common enemy on the late sad occasion. We find by letters from all parts that the people of these nations apprehend the goodness of God therein. We thought therefore that we could do no less than join in professing our fidelity, and therefore I and the commanders of the fleet in town have agreed upon and signed an address, a copy of which I send to you, and to others abroad, and desire you to propose it to all the commanders and warrant officers of your squadron, and take their subscriptions on one side of a fair sheet of paper, which, with your own signature, you are to dispatch to me with all possible speed, that it may be annexed to the original, and presented with the rest to his Highness. [1 page, copy, French correspondence.]

Footnotes

  • 1. For the explanation of these Index summaries of Council's Proceedings, see the Preface to this volume.