Volume 183: October 1658, 16-30

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

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'Volume 183: October 1658, 16-30', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1658-9, (London, 1885) pp. 156-171. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1658-9/pp156-171 [accessed 12 April 2024]

October 1658, 16–30

[Oct. 16.] 15. Account of Quakers in prison, names given, with their respective offences, speaking to ministers in churches, refusing to swear or take off the hat, attending meetings, and non-payment of tithes:—
Winchester, 7. Durham, 4.
Carlisle, 4. Canterbury, 1.
Appleby, 1. Lewes, 1.
Yorkshire, 6. Bristol, 2.
Ivelchester, 12. Cambridge, 4.
Norwich, 4. Cardiff, 2.
Huntingdon, 1. Bodmin, 1.
Ipswich, 5. Hertford, 3.
Melton, 1. Colchester, 7.
Northampton, 3. Marlborough, 1.
Warwick, 1. Aylesbury, 1.
The Fleet, 9. Oxford, 3.
Kendal, 1. Dorsetshire, 8.
Pontefract, 1. Horsham, 5.
Taunton, 1. Newgate, 1.
Gloucester, 10.
There are now 110 prisoners in gaols and houses of correction, many are sick, and 9 have died. [1 sheet.]
Oct. 16. 16. Hen. Scobell to the keepers of the above-named prisons, and also to those of Hull, York, Bury St. Edmunds, Leicester, and the White Lion, Southwark. I am commanded by Council to require you send up a particular account of the cause of commitment and detention of the several persons undernamed in your prisons, and copies of the warrants by which they stand committed. [1 page.]
Oct. 17/27. Amb. Lockhart to Sec. Thurloe. I find there has been an old grudge between Capt. Whitstone and Adm. Stoakes, though both are strangers to me. It seems the Admiral's jealousy arose from some civilities paid to Whitstone, because he is related to the late Protector, and shows the Admiral not so honourable as could be wished for. It is hard to believe that Whitstone could say such words of his Prince and benefactor, and had he been capable of it, he should be severely punished; but the Admiral should have avoided the scandal it gives in this country for a nephew of the late Protector to be so roughly dealt wtih. Even the timing of it looks unhandsome, being done immediately after receiving tidings of his death. Stoakes deserves a sound check. I send you copies of my letters to both, that if you do not approve, they may be altered. [2/3 page, copy, French correspondence.]
Oct. 18.
Cambridge Castle.		 17. John Baron, keeper, to Scobell. I certify, in obedience to your letter, that Rob. Lettword or Lechworth is detained by virtue of a process from the Barons of Exchequer. Chris. Lancaster was detained for like cause, but has satisfied the Minister who prosecuted, and is discharged. The wife of Boniface Norris was convicted at Cambridge sessions for disturbing the Minister at Over church, and sentenced to pay 5l., not yet paid. [½ page.] Annexing,
17. I. Warrant by Rich. Woodward, sheriff of co. Cambridge, for the seizure of Lechworth, for trespass and misdemeanour. 21 Sept. 1657. [½ page.]
Oct. 19. 18. Petition of Maurice Thomson, and other merchants of London, to the Protector, for leave to export to Amsterdam, or other places in amity, 150 out of 200 tons of saltpetre which they have lately imported from East India, the State being supplied at reasonable rates. [1 page.]
Oct. 19. 19. Reference thereon in Council to the Admiralty Commissioners, to certify their opinion next Thursday. [½ page; also I. 88, col. 40.] Annexing.
19. I. Report by the said Commissioners in favour of the licence, the Customs' Commissioners taking good assurance that¼ of the whole proportion they have is reserved in town, in secure hands, for supply of the State. 21 Oct. 1658. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 19. 20. Petition of Hen. Beesley, Minister of Swarford, co. Oxon, to the Protector. Being ejected from my parsonage, I am rendered incapable of exercising my talent in the ministry. I send you a certificate from your Commissioners of my fitness, and beg your reference to Council, that by their approbation, I may be restored to the ministry. With reference thereon to the Privy Council. 18 October 1658. [1 page.] Annexing.
20. I. Petition of Hen. Beesley to the Commissioners for ejecting [scandalous, &c., Ministers.] On March 24 1656–7, I attended you to defend myself, but it grew late before my case came on, several Commissioners left, and those remaining were not enough to examine witnesses on oath, and I heard no more till 4 days before my sentence. I beg, for the sake of my reputation and subsistence of my 6 children, that you will respite any order against me till you have heard my defence in presence of the Ministers in the commission. [1 page.]
20. II. Order thereon for suspension of proceedings till further examination of witnesses for the defence, the Commissioners to meet at the Guildhall, Oxford, on 24 May, those present at his ejection having special notice, and the Ministers in the Commission to be present. 26 April 1658. [1 page.]
Oct. 19. Note in Council that the petition was dismissed. [Index I. 84, col. 3.]
Oct. 19. 21. Report by the Committee for affairs in America, on the petition of Edith, widow of Wm. Goulder,—that Goulder listed at the Barbadoes, by order of Gen. Venables, as carpenter, 10 March 1654–5, and continued till he died in January 1656–7;—that as she is in a perishing condition, and has many children, 2s. 6d. a day should be allowed her during his services amounting to 83l. 10s., though he was not in the establishment. Treasury Chambers, 2 July 1658. [1½ pages.]
[Oct. 19.] Note of order in Council referring the case. [I. 84, col. 22.]
Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
[Oct. 19.] 2 butts of sack out of prize wines to Vice-Admiral Godson. [Col. 18.]
2 butts of sack out of prize wines to Sir Rich. Stainer. [Col. 36.]
The petition of Margetts, deputy judge advocate, referred. [Col. 27.]
40l. to Carter and the tapestry workmen at Mortlake. [Cols. 7, 27, 40.]
The augmentation for Carisbrook transferred to Newport, and Newport augmentation increased. [Cols. 7, 29.]
Augmentation to North Burcombe. [Col. 29.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 95–97.]
Oct. 19.
Ivelchester.		 22. Rich. Browne, keeper of the prison, to Scobell. I send you a copy (missing) of the causes against the persons named in your letter. The 3 women are of very mean estate, and unable to pay the fines. They have been here a year. The cause of the fine was that Mr. Strong, the minister, indicted them for a riot. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 19.
York Castle.		 23. Jo. Thomlinson, keeper, to Scobell. I send you the warrants required. Rob. Mainford and Thos. Wawne were sued and cast into prison by the ministers of their parishes, for non-payment of tithes; also John Semerson, but he died last May, and Roger Hebden, but he was released 5 October last. And. Hawkes is prisoner for not serving a justice of peace's warrant.
If anything is done for release of these prisoners, request the release also of John Ellis and Mat. Maire, also detained for non-payment of tithes. [¾ page.] Annexing,
23. I.—III. Warrants for committals of the said persons, viz.:Semerson, by John Bright, sheriff, 3 April 1656, died 2 May 1658.
Hebden, 9 August 1658, by Thomas Harrison, sheriff.
Mainford, 28 April 1658, " " "
Wawne, 15 May 1658, " " "
Ellis and Maire, 18 August 1658, " "
Hawkes, 18 February 1657–8, " " "
Oct. 19.
Winchester Prison.		 24. John Hayward, keeper, to Scobell. I enclose you as ordered, my warrants for commitments [of Quakers] which I hope will answer your desires. [½ page.] Annexing,
24. I. Mittimus by John Bulkeley for committal of Hum. Smith of Cowhorne, co. Herts; Ant. Mellage of Lyme, co. Dorset; and Wm. Bayley, charged with misdemeanours at Poulner in Ringwood, they refusing to give security for their good conduct. 9 February 1657–8. With order by Judge Windham, at the Lent assizes, that they be sent to the House of Correction, there to remain till they give security to return to their habitations. [¾ page.]
24. II. Mittimus by Thos. Bowerman, for committal of Dan. Baker and Geo. Henderson, charged with disturbing Rob. Dingley, minister of Brixton [Isle of Wight], during his sermon on the Day of Humiliation 19 May 1658. With order at the quarter sessions in July, that they be kept at moderate labour in the House of Correction 6 months, or till they are legally discharged, paying fees. [¾ page.]
24. III. Like mittimus for committal of John Day, Brixton, Isle of Wight, for the same offence, 9 July 1658. With order in sessions for the same punishment. [¾ page.]
24. IV. Note of committal of Jas. Potter, by Wm. Wither, for disturbing Mr. Bentall, minister of Baghurst. On his trial at the summer assizes of 1657, before Baron Nicholas, he was fined 5l. for contempt of court, which being unpaid, he still remains in prison. [Scrap.]
Oct. 19.
Colchester Castle.		 25. Nich. Roberts, keeper, to Scobell. I am troubled at your letter requiring an account of the cause of commitment of the several persons under-named, whereas you only name Wm. Allen. I have other prisoners, some called Quakers, committed for refusing to pay tithes and other misdemeanours, some felons and debtors, a great number in all. I will give you a catalogue of as many as you please.
P.S.—Wm. Allen of Samford was committed by Justice Templer, 24 June 1658, as a disturber of the peace, and refusing to find security, was to remain in gaol. At the July sessions at Chelmsford, he was remanded till he should find securities for his good behaviour. [1 page.]
Oct. 19.
Melton Prison, Suffolk.		 26. John Smyth, keeper, to Scobell. The only cause of commitment of Geo. Sheringe is non-payment of tithes; he is prosecuted in the Exchequer by Dame Vere Gawdy, widow. [⅓ page.] Annexing,
26. I. Mittimus by Leicester, Viscount Hereford, bailiff of St. Etheldred's liberty, for his committal for trespasses and contempts, 24 Dec. 1656. [½ page.]
Oct. 20.
Ipswich Gaol.		 27. John Storye, keeper, to Scobell. The prisoners you enquire about are—
Wm. Alexander and George Whitehead, to be discharged on paying 8s. 8d. fees to the clerk of the peace, which they refuse to pay.
Arnold Nunn and Wm. Tummett, committed by Exchequer process for trespasses and contempts. [1 page.]
Oct. 20.
Oxford.		 28. Rob. Thorpe, keeper of the county gaol, to Scobell. I send you the warrants required. [½ page.] Annexing,
28. I. Warrants by Wm. Draper, sheriff, for committal of Alex. Harris, 20 Jan., and of Thos. French and Wm. Cole, 13 March 1657–58, for trespasses and contempts. [1 page.]
Oct. 20. 29. Rob. Currier, gaoler of Huntingdon, to Scobell. I have in my custody only debtors and felons, who, I understand, are not mentioned in your letter, except Simon Sandford.
I send you the warrant by Rich. Woodward, sheriff, for his committal on an Exchequer process, 13 Jan. 1657–58. He has been 39 weeks imprisoned at suit of John Manton, clerk of Altonbury. With the warrant. [1 page.]
Oct. 20.
Bristol.		 30. John Roche, keeper of the gaol, to Scobell. John Withers and John Love were sent here for refusing to give sureties for good behaviour for some contempt, but Love was discharged a fortnight since, and Withers is just released. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 20.
Gloucester.		 31. Step. Halford, keeper of the county gaol, to Scobell. I send the warrants by which the prisoners named in your letter are detained. Thos. White is not in my custody, but in the city gaol, Northgate, but I send his charge. Rich. Hollister, Rich. Marshall, and Isaac Whiting were set at liberty some time since. With list of his 6 prisoners. [1 page.] Enclosing,
31. I. Warrants by John Bernard, sheriff, for committal of—
Jos. Tomlins, to answer Toby Edmonds on a plea of trespass, 30 March 1658.
Thos. Hopcott, of Stoke Orchard, to answer Tim. Gale on a plea of debt, 13 April 1658.
Fras. Pinnel, on an Exchequer process for trespass, 31 May 1658.
Oct. 20. 32. Wm. Wilson, keeper of Dorchester Gaol, to Scobell. I send you an account of the causes of the commitment and detention of the persons named in your letter. They were committed before I was keeper:—John Gundry and Eliz. Atkins for disturbing Jeremiah French, minister of South Parrott; Geo. Harris, Peter Maker, Thos. Strickland, and Fras. Dunbar for misbehaviour before the justices of peace; Wm. Elliott and Thos. Stone were never in my custody, but Stone is in the Bridewell at Sherborne. I entreat your answer for discharge of the parties. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 20.
Taunton.		 33. Edw. Coram, deputy-keeper of the house of correction, to Scobell. Wm. Wookey was brought in by an order at the sessions of 17 July 1658, being indicted for disturbing the minister of Lidford at service on the Lord's day, found guilty by a jury, and committed for 5 months. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 20. 34. Petition of Capt. Walter Everenden, of Battel, co. Sussex, to the Protector. It is experimentally known that the best pistol and fowling powder was made at Battel; the maker is now fallen to decay, and is unable to carry on the work, and has applied to me for a large loan of money, but I am unwilling to enter on the business without your consent. I beg an order licensing me to make 8 or 10 tons yearly, this being but such a proportion as will defray my costs. With holograph reference thereon to Council. [1 page.]
Oct. 20. Reference thereon by Council to the Admiralty Commissioners to report. [½ page.]
[Oct. 20.] Index entries of proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
Congerston and Shackerston rectories [co. Leicester] united. [Cols. 7, 36.]
The Dover account for moneys disbursed there for sick and wounded soldiers referred. [Col. 9.]
A month's pay to Lord Montague's regiment. [Col. 27.]
On report from the Dutch ambassador, the marine treaty to be considered; also the injuries by the Dutch to the East India Company. [Cols. 9, 14.]
Money to be provided for the guards of horse and foot about London. [Col. 18.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 98–100.]
Oct. 21/31.
Whitehall.		 Rob. Blackborne to Capt. John Stoakes. I am sorry for the trouble Whitstone has caused you, in the midst of your difficulties in the service. If you can prove what is objected, the course you have taken is very prudential, but the depositions must be taken in a large and punctual manner, not insisting so much on the number of articles as the weight and substance of them, that they be offences within the compass of the articles of war. Take the examinations of as many of the fleet as will voluntarily depose, and especially send over such officers as can give clearest proof of the charge, by exchange of officers in case they belong to the ships that are to remain with you. Conceal this advice from the knowledge of any. [1 page, copy, French correspondence.]
Oct. 21/31. Note of a letter from Rich. Creed to Capt. Stoakes, that though a great friend of Whitstone's mother and brother-in-law, he blames him, as also his lieutenant, Stuart; he says that Whitstone has spoken much against Stoakes for trusting all his secret affairs to Mr. Wilson. [Scrap, French correspondence.]
Oct. 21/31.
Whitehall.		 Admiralty Commissioners to Capt. Stoakes. We are sorry to hear of your illness, and to find that Capt. Whitstone has given such public cause of scandal and offence as to be suspended his command; but as you represent the case, we think you have done well in it, and the Protector signifies his pleasure as follows:—
In case of your disability by sickness or death, Capt. Rob. Saunders, of the Torrington, is to take charge of the whole squadron. The 5 frigates ordered home are to be sent home in charge of some other officer, and Whitstone to be sent in custody, with his charge, and witnesses to prove it.
Thus you see that no ill construction is put on your proceedings, but his Highness will consider it impartially. Whitstone was not ordered to bring home the frigates to encourage him in his difference with you, nor to discountenance you in your command, but from respect to his Highness, to whom he stood related, but whose favour he has lost by his miscarriage. We hope to hear of the arrival of the Tiger and victualling ship, and a confirmation of Capt. Saunders' good success in firing Papochin's ship.
The Dutch fleet is gone to the relief of the Dane, but may be too late. The 5 ships coming home may convoy English shipping homeward bound from any Mediterranean port. With note by Gen. Montague. I have presented your subscriptions to his Highness, who expressed much affection and thankfulness, and I thank you for your concurrence. [2¼ pages, copy. French correspondence.]
Oct, 21
Durham.		 35. Jo. Jopling, keeper of the castle, to Scobell. I have sent copies of the warrants ordered, but one of the prisoners, Marg. Ramshaw, spinster, was only to remain till the sessions, so she is now at large; the other says he was committed for non-payment of tithes. [½ page.] Annexing,
35. I. Warrant by Rich. Rowe for committal of Marg. Ramshaw of Sunderland, for disturbing Josias Dockery, Minister of Lanchester, in divine service on 18 July, and for her detention till the next general sessions. 19 July 1658. Also
Warrant by Tim. Whittingham, sheriff, for committal of Jas. White, to answer Thos. Bowes on a plea of trespass in the Upper Bench. 13 February 1657–58. [1 page.]
Oct. 21. 36. Return from [the gaol keeper of] co. Herts, viz.:
Warrant by Edw. Gardiner, sheriff, for committal of Geo. Huckle and Wm. Dogett, for trespass and contempt. 29 January 1657–58.
Order at the sessions that Hen. Feast, husbandman, of Roydon, Essex, be committed till he pay a fine of 5l. for disturbing the minister of Hunsdon, co. Herts, and 9s. 8d. fees. 19 April 1658.
Like order that Thos. Harris, of Thorly, be kept 3 months in the house of correction with hard labour, for disturbing the minister of Thorly. 4 October 1658. [1 page.]
Oct. 21. 37. Return from Bold Boughey, warden of the Fleet prison, London, Warrant for Wm. Clater's committal for refusing to answer Dove Williamson on a bill of attachment, in contempt of court, 1 June 1656.
Also for Rich. Robinson, Alex. Hebblethwaite. and Jas. Corney, for not answering a bill of Rich. Atkinson's. 23 Oct. 1656.
Also Rich. Markes and Walter Mably on like grounds. 21 Nov. 1656.
Also Chas. Barrett and David Hall on like cause. 8 May 1657.
Also John Lucas on like cause. 29 June 1658.
Also Wm. Glidwell on like cause. 29 June 1658. [4 pages.]
[Oct. 21.] 38. The above-named Fleet prisoners, Chas. Barrett excepted, to Scobell. Hearing that the warden was to send you the causes of our commitment, and we having copies of the same, and knowing the causes assigned to be false, send you the true reasons why we are kept in prison. Hebblethwaite, Corney, and Robinson did put in an answer to the bill of the master of Trinity College, Cambridge, as the farmers of tithes, but have been 2 years in prison because they would not break Christ's command by swearing to their answers.
Similar statement in reference to the remainder, except two, who were not even asked to swear.
"All we were willing to appear and to give in our answers, yet because we could not swear, they cast us into prison, which they call a contempt, but we are obedient to the doctrine of Christ and the Apostle, who saith, 'Swear not at all.'"
"Is not this a sad thing amongst you, that obedience to Christ's commands is called a contempt? And thus the righteous suffer, and few lays it to heart, not only we, but many more in other prisons."
If you would send for any 2 of us, we could give you further satisfaction. [1 page.]
Oct. 21.
White Lion Prison, Surrey.		 39. Return by Wm. Arthur, keeper. Warrant by Thos. Walker, sheriff, for committal of Hen. Gill of Eshing, to answer Isaac Fortrey, clerk, on a plea of trespass. 10 Aug. 1658. [2/3 page.]
Oct. [21.] 40. Information that Edwin Rich, being at Beccles on Lord's Day, and missing the Lord's prayer and other forms which he expected, stirred up the townsmen against the preacher, and in the afternoon, went to hear a scandalous minister. He told Mr. Clarke that those who refused these formalities, and to administer the Sacrament to all that desired it, would soon be banished, and told the townsmen that if he were a Parliament man, as he had a hand in bringing Mr. Clarke into the town, he would have a hand in helping him out. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 21. 41. Report on the case, that Rich acknowledges on examination that he went to hear Clarke preach, and also Mr. Cocke of Bartham, reputed a godly minister; also that he spoke in private in favour of using the Lord's prayer and baptism, and of the universal administering of the Sacrament, but denies stirring up the people against Mr. Clarke. He has forborne, by Council's order, to attend his place in Chancery, and if he has given offence, he is very sorry for it. With note of order of 9 Dec. 1658. [2 pages.]
Oct. 22.
Pontefract.		 42. Rob. Cooper, mayor, to Hen. Scobell. I received an express from you directed to the keeper of our prison, to certify the cause of commitment of Rich. Stubbs, but no such person is or has been prisoner here. [½ page.]
Oct. 22.
Leicester.		 43. John Wale, gaoler, to Scobell. Rich. Farmer was set at liberty last assizes by Lord Widdrington, and bound to good behaviour till next assizes. [2/3 page.] Annexing,
43. I. Warrant by Fras. Shute for committal of Rich. Farmer, jun., of Twycross, for disturbing divine worship there, on 27 June 1658, to be kept till set free by order of law. 14 July 1658. [¾ page.]
Oct. 22.
London.		 Levant Company to John Hobson, Venice. The Proveditors of Zante and Cephalonia, lately returned to Venice, are questioned on our complaints in England and yours at Venice, for exactions on our nation there, one of which is a gratuity of 1 per 1,000 to the regiment, before they were permitted to lade. As we have now an opportunity for a full redress of grievances, we beg you to discover where the fraud lies; if in our factors, send in certificates to enable us to recover it of them; if in the Proveditors, procure restitution of what is unjustly taken. Especially obtain an effectual decree from the Senate, abolishing the tax in future, and let this be solemnly proclaimed by trumpet in both islands. We will defray the charge. [Levant Papers, Vol. IV., p. 311.]
[Oct 23.] Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
Letters to the Receivers-general for pay of the Lord Protector's regiment of horse, and of Sir Phil. Twisleton's regiment. [Cols. 32, 40.]
Two thirds of the money arising from new buildings to be paid to the Treasurers-at-war. [Col. 3.]
A month's pay out of the money by new buildings to be given to the guards of horse and foot about London. [Col. 18.]
Leave granted to Amb. Lockhart to come over. [Col. 25.]
Council to adjourn. [Col. 7.]
The Dutch ambassador's papers, touching English prizes brought into the Low Countries, reported and to be considered. [Col. 11.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 101–103.]
Oct. 23.
Gray's Inn.		 44.— Ball to Williamson. Mr. Humphrey complains that he cannot get from Mr. Robinson the money for the goods you left with me in Paris to be transported. Pray write about it. I hoped to see you in Oxford this summer, but was disappointed. [¾ page.]
Oct. 23. 45. Order in Council that the Admiralty Commissioners order 8 more ships to be provided for the winter guard, and furnished with all necessaries for 3 or 4 months. [2/3 page.]
Oct. 23.
Kendal.		 46. Jas. Sutton, keeper of the prison, to Scobell. I send you a warrant as requested. [½ page.] Annexing,
46. I. Warrant by John Archer, J.P., for committal of Jane Waugh, spinster, for disturbing divine worship at Old Hutton Chapel, and refusing to find sureties for her good behaviour. 1 Aug. 1658. [1 page.]
Oct. 23.
Appleby.		 47. Geo. Becke, keeper of the prison, to Hen. Scobell. I have not the Geo. Taylor named in yours in my custody, but Thos. Taylor, found guilty 20 Aug. 1657 of disturbing the service at this church; he was fined 5 marks, and sent to me till it was paid; but the fine was estreated out of the Exchequer, and paid 19 Aug. 1658, Taylor was discharged. [1 page.]
Oct. 23.
Northampton.		 48. John Smart, keeper of the county prison, to Scobell. I send the warrants required. I have no Wm. Soules, but I have a Wm. Lovell, of the same temper as the other two, but not here on the same account. Roberts is in the town gaol. [½ page.] Annexing,
48. I. Warrant from the late Protector for committal of Edw. Roberts till he pay 5l. 13s. damages and 2d. costs and 1l. 1s. 11d. increase to Lionell Goodrich, clerk. Jonathan Whiston, mayor, witness. 2 November 1657. [¾ page.]
48. II. Warrant by Sir Edw. Nicolls, Bart., for seizure of John Garrett on an Exchequer process for trespass and contempt. 13 Jan. 1657–58. [½ page].
48. III. Note that Wm. Lovell was committed to pay a fine of 30l. at Epiphany sessions, 1657–58. [¼ page.]
Oct. 24.
Cardiff.		 49. Lewis Coxe and Art. Yeomans, serjeants-at-mace and prison keepers, to Scobell. We send you the warrants required. There have been no sessions of peace held here since the committal of the prisoners. [½ page.] Annexing,
49. I. Warrant by Richard and John Sheere for committal of Tobie Hodges, tailor of Cardiff, for disturbing Benj. Flower, minister of St. John Baptist's Church, on 19 July 1658, during divine service. 20 July 1658. [½ page.]
49. II. Like warrant for committal of Dorcas Erburie, of Cardiff, spinster, for the same cause. 31 Aug. 1658. [½ page.]
Oct. 25.
Carlisle.		 50. Geo. Marton, keeper of the prison, to Scobell. I send you the mittimus (missing) for committal of Jos. Nicholson, Richard and Mat. Robinson, and John Askewe, but they are now at liberty by order of the sessions at Carlisle. [¾ page.]
Oct. 25.
Aylesbury.		 51. Wm. Goodman [keeper of the prison] to Scobell. I have not the John Browne named in yours in my custody. [⅓ page.] Annexing,
51. I. Copy of the letter of Council of 16 Oct. naming John Browne as in Aylesbury Prison. [2/3 page.]
51. II. Warrant by Thos. Coppin, sheriff of Bucks, for committal of Wm. Hickman to answer Sam. Treacher on a plea of trespass. 10 Sept. 1658. [Scrap, printed form filled up.]
Oct. 25
Lewes.		 52. Nich. Shelley [keeper of the prison] to Scobell. I send the warrant required, but the detention expiring last sessions, the men were set at liberty. [½ page.] Annexing,
52. I. Order in the quarter sessions for committal of John Pellett and Rich. Pratt, for making a mutiny and disturbing the open court of sessions, to be punished, and set to work, and remain till next sessions. 15 July 1658. [½ page.]
[Oct. 25.] Return by Rich. Lakins, keeper of Horsham Gaol, Sussex, viz.:—
53. Warrants for committal of John Snashall of Chiltington, Thos. Patching of Ifield, and Alice West, Quakers, for disturbing public worship, and of orders in sessions for their detention in gaol.
Also of warrants for imprisonment of Rob. Adams, Rich. Prate, and Rich. Pockney, all of Sussex, for non-payment of tithes. 21 Dec. 1657 to 4 Oct. 1658. [2 pages.]
Oct. 25.
Bodmin.		 54. John Boxe, keeper of the prison, to Thurloe. I never had in my custody the Lowly Hambleton you name, but I had Loveday Hambley, who was discharged by sheriff's order a month ago. With his warrant for committal by Peter Jenkyn, sheriff, on an Exchequer process for trespass and contempt. 19 Aug. 1658. [1 page.]
Oct. 25. 55. Petition of the parishioners of Bramham, West Riding, co. York, to the Protector and Council, for an augmentation for their minister. The donation of the rectory belongs to Christ Church, Oxford, and is only worth 20l. a year, chiefly in petty tithes and oblations, and surplice fees; as the late vicar was ejected by the Commissioners, it has been vacant a year, though the parish is very large and populous, consisting of divers towns and hamlets. Signed by 27 parishioners, and subscribed by Wm. Strickland and 11 other justices of peace, and by the following ministers—Hen. Fairfax of Bolton Percy, Edw. Bowles of York, Elias Pauson of Rither, Rob. Hitch of Guisley, E. Micklethwaite of Marston, Ri. Sykes of Spofforth, Ste. Arbush of Cawood, and John Kirshaw of Poppleton. [2 pages.]
Oct. 25. Note of order for the said augmentation in Council. [I. 84, col. 3.]
Oct. 25. 56. Petition of Wm. Barker and Jas. Galatley, merchants of London, to Council. The Hope, of Lubec, coming from Koningsburg to London with hemp, was surprized in the Thames by Capt. John Welsh, by colour of a commission from the King of Sweden, on pretence that the lading belonged to subjects of Brandenburg and Poland, and was by him carried to Dunkirk, where she remains; but the ship is free, the lading belongs to us and other English, and part is contracted for by the Admiralty Commissioners. We beg your letters to the governor of Dunkirk, or some other means for restoration of the ship, and for punishment of Capt. Welsh, who has interrupted our trade. With note of order. [1 page.]
Oct. 25. Note of grant of the said request. [I. 84, col. 20.]
Oct. 26. 57. Petition of Hum. Mackworth, governor, for the garrison and well-affected of Shrewsbury, to the Protector. John Tench, late marshal of the town and court, was during the wars an active and desperate malignant, and made a vow never to cut his hair till Charles Stuart reigned again in England. When the town was reduced, it was judged necessary for its peace not only to sequester him, but to banish him the town; yet when all was settled, he returned and tries to disaffect the townsmen, and create a party. Such is the unhappy state of the town that John Betton, lately chosen mayor, though formerly set aside for refusing the engagement, has displaced the marshal put in by the well-affected magistracy, and restored Tench to the office, and tries to turn out of office all that took the engagement. Since my coming to London, he has (contrary to the judgment of the Recorder) released Jasper Lloyd, ever a bitter cavalier, committed for speaking treasonable words.
We beg that Tench may be removed, and that the friends of the old interest may not be turned out of their places. With note of order 7 December 1658. [1 sheet.]
Oct. 26. Note of reference of the said petition in Council. [I. 84, p. 27.]
Oct. 26. 58. Petition of Sol. Gravell of Maidstone, Kent, to the Protector. Being born in the King of Spain's dominions, near Flanders, and a Protestant, I have sheltered 20 years in England for liberty of religion, married an English wife, and maintained her four children many years as a feltmaker; but the hatters of London, and the haberdashers about me have lately disturbed me, on pretence that strangers are forbidden by law to exercise any calling. Having always behaved well, I beg to be allowed to maintain myself. With note of reference. [1 page.] Annexing,
58. I. Lambard Godfrey to Lord Phil. Jones, one of the Privy Council. I beg your favour for Gravel, born in Hainault. He and his father came here 20 years since, and have traded according to patents in time of the late kings, which liberties in the late Protector's time, Parliament recommended Council to take care of, on which letters were written to the lord mayor. He has been several times prosecuted lately, and now in the Exchequer Court. Cases of this kind are important, and the man is diligent and orderly. [1¾ pages.]
Oct. 26. Note of reference of his petition in Council. [I. 84, col. 18.]
[Oct. 26.] 59. Order in Council referring the petition of Rob. Mossell, Josias Hooscroft, John Hodges and others of co. Sussex—that lately returning home on the Lord's day from a place of worship, they were apprehended by the mayor of Arundel, indicted as profaners of the Lord's day, and committed to goal by the sessions—to Fiennes, Mr. Secretary, Fleetwood, Desborow, the Lord Chamberlain, Skippon, Mr. Comptroller, and Montague, to enquire and report. [¾ page.] Annexing,
59. I. Report by Desborow and Jones thereon, that Mr. Taylor, late mayor of Arundel should be summoned to attend Council with speed, to give an account of his proceedings in the matters complained of. 11 November 1658. [½ page.]
Oct. 26. 60. Order in Council that the Admiralty Commissioners appoint 2 fit vessels to convoy Sir George Ayscue and his company, in his present expedition to Sweden or Denmark. [½ page.]
[Oct. 26.] Index entries of proceedings in Council. [I 84.]
Proposals touching Surinam referred. [Col. 36.]
Chas. Goring released on bail. [Col. 18.]
W. Bound's paper of complaint against Mr. Sharpe referred. [Cols. 3, 36.]
Index entries of proceedings in Council (cont.)
Bills of exchange from Flanders referred. [Col. 15.]
500l. for a jewel to Lord Fauconberg. Jewel to Lord Mancini, the French Agent. [Cols. 15, 27.]
Letter touching the pay of Lord Fauconberg's regiment. [Col. 15.]
Memorial touching Sam. Hartlib referred. [Col. 20.]
Petition about the Brotherhood of London, Constant Mary packet frigate, and other ships seized by the Dutch, referred. [Cols. 3, 7, 32, 36.]
Capt. Hart propounded to be Major. [Col. 20.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 106–110.]
Oct. 26.
Portsmouth.		 61. Capt. Fras. Willough by to the Navy Commissioners. The General in the Laurel, and 20 sail of nimble ships, have gone to sea, and the rest of the great ships, with the merchantmen, are in the Road; they will be daily draining us by orders they obtained from the General before he left, as also through a constant need of victuals. The victualler's chief agent being sick, there is only a young man to manage the business, and although he does what he can, he is not capable of supplying the present necessity, so that the service is extremely retarded, he being constrained to leave the ships in harbour which the General has need of, to supply the ships without from hand to mouth. One of the principal victuallers, being here, was made sensible of this state of things, but there was no remedy.
You must be sensible of the abundance of work to be done to the ships now come in, and the great supplies of stores that will be needed to carry it on; I therefore entreat of you to take some effectual course about it; also send down 20 more caulkers, some rosin, and a supply of canvas, the storekeeper being constrained to cut French cloth where Ipswich would serve; what French is to be had here is 17l. per bale, in which I suppose is included travelling charges for their money and treble interest; so it is with almost all other things, sheet lead being 17l. per ton.
I heard this day of a ship being brought in as prize with 600 barrels of tar, and 300 of pitch, and as both are greatly needed, I hope some speedy course will be taken for securing it for the use of the stores here. I have examined Rich. Field's business, concerning Capt. Davis of the Dolphin prize, and the Captain confesses that he had an order to receive a cable out of a prize taken, and that he bought another out of the same prize, and sold it again for 13l.; also that finding two hogsheads of vinegar in his own ship, he disposed of it. The purser confesses that he sold a barrel of butter, as being so bad it could not be eaten, but the contrary is affirmed by some of the men. You will take notice of the ship and the commander's name, and see that he gives a full account before he is paid. [2¼ pages.]
Oct.
26.Hull.		 62. John Stansfield to Scobell. All that I can say on your letter is that Capt. Levens was sent here by Major Cambridge, on an order from his late Highness, to be kept in safe custody in this garrison for being at a tumultuary meeting about Leeds. [¾ page.]
Oct. 27
Marlborough.		 63. Fras. Rawligh and Edw. Purlin, late bailiffs and prison keepers, to Scobell. Edw. Southwood about whom you enquire was committed to us by Thos. Bayly, then mayor, for disturbing Mr. Proffitt, Minister of Peters, in Divine service, the said mayor being present. We were ordered to keep him till the next general sessions, held 4 Oct. instant, when he was discharged. [¾ page.] Annexing.
63. I. Letter of Council to the keeper of Marlborough prison about the cause of Southwood's commitment. 16 October 1658. [½ page.]
Oct. 28. 64. Petition of Col. John Fothergill, Col. Hum. Bruster, and Major Rob. Sparrow, captains of the militia troops of horse in Suffolk, to Council. There remains 200l. of the moneys on the decimation tax on delinquents' estates in the county, intended to pay our troops, in the hands of the receivers, Mr. Weekes, of Ipswich, and Mr. Oxburough, of Bury, which we have demanded towards reimbursement of our great charge in preserving the public peace, but they will not pay it without an order from you. We beg you therefore to order them to pay us all they have in hand, and we will be accountable for it, in order to the payment of the troops. [1 page.]
Oct. 28. Note of reference thereon in Council. [I. 84, col. 15.]
Oct. 28. 65. Petition of Hen. Alcock to the Privy Council, for release on bail of Thos. Harvey, of Oakham, co. Rutland, who was apprehended by order of Council by a party of soldiers, and carried to Barnstaple, co. Devon, and tried last Exeter assizes for witchcraft and practices with the devil, but acquitted; yet by command of the then Baron Nicholas, he still remains in prison, at great expense and 140 miles away from home. [1 page.]
Oct. 28. Note of reference thereon. [I. 84, col. 1.]
[Oct. 28.] Index entries of Proceedings in Council. [I. 84.]
1,500l. to John Maidstone for the funeral, and 600l. later. [Col. 27.]
Lord Barnwell's case to be heard. [Col. 3.]
Thos. Harvy kept prisoner at Exeter. [Col. 20.]
Persons to attend the receivers in collecting for new buildings. [Col. 3.]
The Dunkirk establishment referred. [Col. 9.]
Amb. Lockhart's letter referred. [Col. 26.]
Rules about gowns at his Highness's funeral. [Col. 15.]
[Missing Order Book, pp. 111–114.]
Oct. 28./Nov. 7.
Brussels.		 66. Pass from the King for Rob. Smythson, his subject, coming from Zealand to Flanders. Signed. [2/3 pages, French.]
Oct. 28. 67. Hum. Robinson to Williamson. I only engaged to pay for your goods when I should know your mind, but hearing they had made your man prisoner and taken all his letters, and, as I feared, diminished the goods, I waited to hear from you.
Those pieces of Stephanus are so rare that a man may charge what he lists. [1 page.]
Oct. 30. 68. Further address of Fras. Thomson, and the rest of the farmers of excise in London, &c., to the Committee of Council to whom their petition was referred. We begged his late Highness for a defalcation of our rent for time past, and relief to prevent our future damage.
1. To cover our losses and pay our rent of 128,400l. we must advance the excise 14,000l. a year, which cannot be done in our term, because,—
(1.) We have lost 3,000l. a year by our neighbour farmers.
(2.) The new trade in coffee is so increased that it has lessened our receipts by 3000l.
(3.) The last year and this trade is bad and commodities dear.
(4.) The excise laws are defective for the punishment of fraud, and thus great part of the duty is concealed, our utmost care notwithstanding.
(5.) Our desperate debts this year are 1,500l.
2. There are many precedents of abatements in farms.
3. We have advanced ours to 120,000l., which is 30,000l. more than it raised before, and will answer the expectation of Parliament.
4. If it were reduced to 120,000l., we should have to raise it 6,000l. or 7,000l. more to cover past losses.
We therefore beg relief as follows:—
1. Stay of all proceedings befors the Commissioners of Appeals for arrears, we having already paid in all we have received.
2. A defalcation of rent, without which we cannot gain advances of money from our friends.
3. Refusal of offers made by others to our disadvantage, they hoping to reap the benefit of our labours, in which we have advanced much, and exposed ourselves to great hazards. [1½ pages.]
Oct. ? 69. Petition of Rob. Blackborne to the Protector and Council. In December last, there being treasonable designs on foot, for convenience of the service, I left my dwelling house near Scotland Yard, and had to take a lease of one near, for which I paid to_Hill 350l., being 100l. more than I received for mine, beside 30l. laid out in repairs; but by a verdict, the possession of the house is given to_Turner, a mortgagee, who only allows me to stay till next term, so that I shall lose my fine and repairs, unless I can recover them at law.
As I left that the house might be used for quartering your lifeguard, and as it remains empty, I beg leave to re-enter and to have a respite of the fine of 250l. which I received, till I recover the money I paid to Hill. [2/3 page.]
1658
[Oct.]		 70. Petition of divers inhabitants of Marlborough, co. Wilts, to the Privy Council. There happened a lamentable fire 5 or 6 years ago, which consumed most of our houses, on which the late Protector ordered a collection, and appointed a London committee to dispose of the money, but they living far off, substituted several magistrates of Marlborough. The money, 18,000l., has been very unequally distributed, and we petitioned the late Protector, who referred our case to gentlemen of the county, but they could not get the accounts, [see 20 Sept. 1658.] There is still 1,000l. in hand, from which we beg redress for the inequality of the distribution. 20 signatures, [Copy, 1 sheet.]
[Oct.] 71. Request by the committee for the funeral to the church-wardens of Martin's-in-the-fields, to send in 12 names for poor men for gowns, there being so many only appointed for that parish, With reply by Gabriel Sangar, minister, and Thos. Heslington and Thos. Halpenny, churchwardens, presenting the said names. Also request by Scobell to Sangar, to approve or alter the said list as he thinks fit. [1¼ pages.]
[Oct.] 72. List of 68 poor men, recommended by sundry officers of State and others, for gowns at the funeral. [22/3 pages.] Annexing,
72. I. Certificate by Capt. Wm. Burrill, of his Highness's regiment of foot, that David George, aged 60, is no longer able to serve as a soldier, and is very poor, faithful, and sober, and the Lord Controller granted him a gown 23 October 1658. [1 page; George's name occurs in the preceding list].
[Oct.] 73. Like list of 79 persons, coinciding in many cases with the preceding. [3½ pages.]
Oct. [Sec. Nicholas] to the Marquis of Newcastle. The King wishes to bestow the place of stitcher of his robes on Thos. Bocock, late servant to Ri. Harding, on account of his service in the late wars, and his honesty and fidelity, and wishes you to cause him to be forthwith settled in that place. [Scrap, Flanders correspondence.]
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