James II - volume 2: March 1686

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: James II, 1686-7. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1964.

This premium content was digitised by double rekeying. All rights reserved.

'James II - volume 2: March 1686', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: James II, 1686-7, (London, 1964) pp. 50-91. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/jas2/1686-7/pp50-91 [accessed 28 March 2024]

Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image

March 1686

208
March 1.
Memorandum that Lord Churchill signifies the King's pleasure that Mr.— Carter have the next chaplain's place void either for horse or foot.
S.P. 44/69, p. 186
209
March 1.
Commission to Robert Levinston to be adjutant to the second battalion of the Royal Regiment of Foot under the command of George, Earl of Dunbarton. Minute.
S.P. 44/69, p. 187
210
March 1.
Reference to the Attorney General of the petition of James Skrymsher, Esq., and Caroline his wife, only surviving daughter of Sir Baynham Throckmorton, bart., praying that the Lord Chief Justice in Eyre may be directed to allow the petitioners the right, which belonged to Sir Baynham and his ancestors as Chief Foresters in fee of the Forest of Dean and has come to Carolina and the heirs of her body, to the right shoulder of all bucks and does killed in that forest and also to ten fee bucks and ten fee does, ten fee oaks and ten fee beeches, with other incidents.
S.P. 44/71, p. 245
211
March 1.
Commission to John Maleverer, clerk, to be chaplain of the Holland regiment. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 366
212
March 1.
These are to certify that Philip Warwick his late Majesty's Envoy Extraordinary to Sweden died about the 20th of March 1682–83, whilst he continued in the said employment. Signed Sunderland.
S.P. 44/336, p. 378
213
March 1.
Commissions in the army in Ireland. Sir Charles Fielding's Regiment: Sir Charles Fielding to be colonel of a regiment of foot whereof Col. Thomas Fairfax was colonel, and captain of a company therein (in the margin, not used, vide letter of June 15); Marcus Talbott, esq., major and captain; Lord Iniskellin captain of the company whereof Capt. Richard Crofton was captain; Lord of Upper Ossory captain of the company whereof Capt. Boyle Aldworth was captain; Capt. Francis Rolleston captain; Lord Louth captain of the company whereof Capt. John Seymour was captain; Walter Butler, esq., captain of the company whereof Sir Nicholas Armorer was captain; Philip Rycaut, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. George Butler was captain (May 1, 1686); Edmund Purcell, gent., lieutenant to Lord of Upper Ossory; David Condon, gent., lieutenant to Major Marcus Talbott; Martin Bladen, gent., ensign to Capt. George Butler; Edward Nugent, gent., ensign to Lord of Upper Ossory; Andrew Dorrington, gent., ensign to Capt. Lewis Dyve; Thomas Power, gent., ensign to Capt. Francis Rolleston; Nicholas FitzGerald, lieutenant to Major John Beversham.
Sir Thomas Newcomen's Regiment: Sir Robert Gore captain-lieutenant; Baldwin Leighton, esq., captain in the room of Capt. Brook Thomas; Sir Maurice Eustace, bart., captain of the company whereof Capt. Henry Cope was captain; Bryan MacMahon, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. George Twisleton was captain; Viscount Netterville, captain of the company whereof Capt. Robert Cecill was captain; Richard Talbott, esq., ensign to Capt. Arthur Dillon; Miles Reily, gent., ensign to Capt. George Talbott; Luke Reily, esq., ensign to Capt. Swift Nix; Henry O'Neil, gent., ensign to Sir Maurice Eustace; Hugh McNamarra, gent., ensign to Capt. Charles Poyntz, Thomas Newcomen, esq., ensign to Lieut.-Col. Anthony Hamilton; Luke Talbott, esq., ensign to Capt. Baldwin Leighton; Lewis Welsh, gent., second lieutenant of grenadiers to Capt. George Talbott, esq.; Richard Talbott, esq., lieutenant to Capt. George Talbott; James Wogan, gent., lieutenant to Viscount Netherville; Richard Graham, esq., lieutenant to Sir Maurice Eustace.
William, Viscount Mountjoy's Regiment: Charles Macarty, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Chichester Philips was captain;—Lacy, esq., captain of the company whereof Pawlett Philips, esq., was captain; Charles Hildeyard, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. John Chichester was captain; Gourdon O'Neil, esq., captain of the company of grenadiers whereof Capt. John Jeffreys was captain; Lancelot Salkeld, gent., ensign to Lieut.-Col. Robert Lundy; Maurice Fitzgerald, esq., lieutenant to Capt. Robert Lucas; Oliver Gara, esq., lieutenant to Capt. Matthew Bridges; Oliver Wogan, esq., Lieutenant to Capt. William Blaney; Francis Browne, gent., ensign to Capt. Charles Macarty; George Bingham, gent., ensign to Major Gustavus Hamilton; Maurice Fitzgerald, esq., ensign—Lacy; John Stevenson, gent., ensign to Capt. Robert Lucas; William Bremingham lieutenant to Capt. Frederick Hamilton; Lord Dunsany captain of the company whereof Capt. Bernard Ward was captain.
Vere Essex, Earl of Ardglasse's Regiment of Horse: Laurence Dempsy, esq., lieut.colonel and captain;—Carroll, esq., major;—Earl of Clancarty, captain of the troop whereof Capt. George Brook was captain; John Talbott, esq., lieutenant of the Earl of Clancarty;—Viscount Galmoy captain of the troop whereof Capt. Chidley Coote was captain; James Hamilton, esq., captain of the troop whereof Sir Arthur Rawdon was captain; Nicholas Purcell, esq., captain-lieutenant;—Corbett, esq., lieutenant to Capt. Ranald Grahme; Robert Arthur, esq., lieutenant to Capt. James Hamilton;—Matthews, esq., cornet to Capt. Robert Grahme; Daniel O'Neil, esq., cornet to Capt. James Hamilton; Dennis Carne, esq., cornet to Capt. Francis Hamilton.
Col. Theodore Russell's Regiment of Foot: Rupert Billingsley, esq., lieut.-colonel and captain; James Eastland, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Richard St. George was captain; Teigue Regan, esq., major and captain; Nicholas Plunkett, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Amias Bush was captain; Nicholas Darcy, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. John Mutlow was captain; Cuconnaght Macguire, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Henry Thomas was captain; Pierce Archbold, esq., lieutenant to Lieut.-Col. Rupert Billingsley; Michael Delahide, esq., lieutenant to Capt. Nicholas Plunkett; Edward Butler, esq., lieutenant to Capt. Nicholas Darcy; Richard Purcell, gent., ensign to Capt. Nicholas Arthur; Nicholas Arthur captain of the company whereof Capt. Kilner Brasier was captain;—Nash lieutenant to Sir Charles de Vic; Henry Thomas, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Thomas Brent was captain.
Richard, Earl of Tyrconnell to be lieut.-general.
Col. Justin Macarty to be major-general.
Col. Richard Hamilton to be brigadier.
Sir Thomas Newcomen to be brigadier (March 2).
Col. John Salkeld to be captain of a troop of grenadiers whereof Col. Laurence Dempsey was captain, and—Morris to be first lieutenant of that troop.
Arthur, Lord Forbese's Regiment of Foot: Arthur, Lord Forbese colonel of a regiment of foot, whereof Arthur, Earl of Granard, was colonel, and captain of a company therein; Robert Forbes, esq., lieut.-colonel and captain of a company; Lord Brittas, captain of the company whereof Capt. Arthur St. George was captain; Lucas Walsh captain of the company whereof Capt. George Lyndon was captain; Ambrose Edgeworth, ensign to Sir John Edgeworth; Richard Butler, captain of the company whereof Benjamin Fletcher was captain; Newcomen Atkinson ensign to the colonel; Toby Caulfield captain of the company whereof George Ridley was captain; William Talbott captain of the company whereof Florence Carty, deceased, was captain; Henry Cunningham captain-lieutenant; Richard Price lieutenant to Capt. Richard Butler; James Skelton lieutenant to Capt. Thomas Whitney; Morrogh Sheehy lieutenant to Capt. Francis Edgeworth; Toby Denn lieutenant to Lord Brittas's company; Richard FitzGerald first lieutenant and Terence O'Brian second lieutenant of Capt. Henry Smith's company of grenadiers; Edmund Bourke lieutenant and Robert Edgeworth ensign to Capt. Toby Caulfield.
James, Duke of Ormond's Regiment of Horse: Cary, Earl of Roscomon, lieut.colonel and captain of a troop;—Macdonnell major without a troop; James Butler, son to Lord Dunboine, lieutenant to Lord Kingston; Christopher Nugent lieutenant to Capt. Ambrose Aungier; Walter Bourke cornet to Lord Kingston; Edmund Nugent lieutenant to Capt. Rene de Carne; Roger Farrell cornet to Lord Kingsale;—Tichbourn lieutenant to the Earl of Roscomon; Edward Butler lieutenant to Capt. Henry Boyle; Charles Kavenagh lieutenant to Lord Kingsale; John Taaffe lieutenant and Ulick Bourke, gent., cornet to Morrogh, Viscount Blesington.
Earl of Tyrconnell's Regiment of Horse: Dominic Sheldon lieutenant and captain of a troop; Sir William Tichbourn major without a troop;—Lord Dungan captain of the troop whereof Sir William Tichbourn was captain; Sir Neil O'Neil captainlieutenant; Jenneico, Viscount Gormonstown, captain of the troop whereof Arthur, Lord Forbese, was captain;—Kirk cornet to the colonel; John Arthur lieutenant to Lord Gormonstown.
Col. Richard Hamilton's Regiment of Dragoons: Col. James Dempsey captain of the troop whereof Lord Dungan was captain; Cornelius Macguire cornet and Daniel Magennis lieutenant to Capt. William Hamilton; Lawrence Clark lieutenant to Capt. Lutterell; Francis Cahaigne cornet to the colonel; Andreas Ford cornet to Capt. George Matthews; Milo Baggott cornet to Capt. Huetson (May 1, 1686).
Major-Gen. Justin Macartie's Regiment of Foot: Sir John FitzGerald lieut.-colonel and captain; Francis Carroll major without a company; Thomas Nugent captain of the company whereof Major Patrick Lawlesse was captain; Pierce, Viscount Ikerrin, captain of the company whereof Capt. Toby Caulfield was captain; Charles Callaghane ensign to Sir John Ivory; Nicholas Carteret lieutenant to Lord Ikerrin; Dermod Macaulife lieutenant to Capt. Thomas Nugent; Timothy Macartie ensign to Capt. George Stoughton; Edmund FitzGerald ensign to Capt. George Colgrave; Timothy Riordane lieutenant to Capt. George Stoughton; Donnogh Macdonnogh ensign to Capt. Richard Lock; Donnogh Macartie lieutenant to Capt. Henry Porree; Philip Baryoge lieutenant to Capt. Richard Lock; Arthur Macmahoone captain in the room of John Bingham; Carew Mees ensign to him.
Sir Charles Fielding to be Governor of the city and county of Londonderry and the fort of Kilmore and captain of the company whereof Capt. Lewis Dyve was captain, which is appointed to be an independent company in garrison in the said fort.
Terence Macsiseeny to be second lieutenant of the said company, and William Clench second lieutenant of the Governor's company.
James, Earl of Ossory, colonel of the King's Regiment of Foot Guards: William Dorrington lieut.-colonel and captain; George Magee lieutenant to Capt. Wentworth Harrinan; Thomas Belasyse captain [sic] of Capt. Richard Farley's company; Bruno Talbott captain of the company whereof Viscount Galmoy was captain; Wentworth Harman captain of the company whereof John Margetson was captain; Anthony Rodney captain of the company whereof Capt. Robert Forbese was captain; William Barker major and captain of a company; Thomas Arthur, esq., captain of the company whereof Capt. Baskerville was captain (May 1, 1686); William Gilbert, esq., captain lieutenant (May 1, 1686);—Allen lieutenant to Lieut.-Col. Dorrington (May 1, 1686).
S.P. 63/340, pp. 151–64
214
March 1.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause Richard, Earl of Tyrconnell, to be sworn of the Privy Council of Ireland.
S.O. 1/12, p. 85
215
March 2.
The Earl of Bath to [the Earl of Sunderland]. In obedience to his Majesty's commands concerning an assault made upon Mr. William Martyn at Exeter, I wrote to the judge of the Sessions to take the examinations, which he has done, but his sickness it seems occasioned some delay.
I have enclosed sent you a full account of that business, with a copy of my letter to the commander-in-chief of his Majesty's Royal Scotch Regiment at Exeter and his answer.
S.P. 31/3, fols. 80–1
216
March 2.
Report of the Lords Justices of Ireland on the petition of Francis Nugent, referred to them on Aug. 24 last, which they have referred to the Solicitor General in Ireland, who reports that the petitioner's brother Sir Robert Nugent, bart., deceased, by decree of the Commissioners for executing the Act of Settlement dated March 16, 1662, was adjudged innocent and restored after the death of his father Sir Thomas Nugent to several lands, tenements and hereditaments; that there are two sons of Sir Robert's living who are successively entitled to that estate whilst they or any issue male of their bodies shall be living, upon failure of which issue he conceives that the King is entitled to it; that the estate was so settled before 1641 as to have come to the petitioner upon failure of the issue male of Sir Robert; that the petitioner is only barred from that remainder by reason of not having claimed it or been adjudged innocent by the said Commissioners, which was neglected by other persons who had right only to such remainders as well as the petitioner, their rights being so remote that they did not reckon it worth their charge to put in their claims and obtain decrees; and that it will be no prejudice to the King to grant the petitioner the desired lease, so as the full quitrents now payable to his Majesty be reserved. (Solicitor General's report dated Dec. 8, 1685.) Dublin, Dec. 12, 1685.
To be transmitted to the Lord Treasurer for consideration and report.
S.P. 44/71, p. 245
217
March 2.
Warrant to—Saywell, messenger, to apprehend—Culpeper and bring him before the [Earl of Sunderland] to answer such matters as shall be objected against him.
S.P. 44/336, p. 378
218
March 2.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Prince of Orange. I now take the liberty to send your Highness an extract of the last letter I received from Sir William Trumbull (see no. 154 above) concerning Orange. I am very sorry so many unpleasant things must pass through my hands, being desirous of nothing in the World so much as to be able to contribute to your satisfaction. I hope your Highness will please to let me know what you would have done further. All that depends on me I will do with the greatest zeal and care possible. (fn. 1)
Holograph. S.P. 8/2 pt. 2, fols. 12–13
219
March 2.
The King to the Prince of Orange, refusing to believe that France has hostile intentions, and referring to the new appointments in Scotland and his proposal to make judicial changes in Ireland. (fn. 2)
Holograph. S.P. 8/3, no. 177
220
March 3.
Commission to Guy Forster, esq., to be cornet to Lieut.-Col. John Coye's troop in the Earl of Shrewsbury's Regiment of Horse. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 305
221
March 3.
Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General, in very similar terms to that of January 22 (see no. 58 above), authorising Henry Hills to print, utter and sell Missals Breviaries, Manuals, Primers, Offices, Catechisms, any Lives of Saints, and the book called Spirit of Christianity; the number of each printed not to exceed five thousand in any one year.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 379–80
222
March 3.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on the appointment of Herbert Aubrey, esq., to be a Commissioner of the Revenue in Ireland in the place of Lemuel Kingdom, lately deceased, for letters patent containing a new commission constituting the Earl of Longford, William Strong, Robert Bridges, William Culliford and Herbert Aubrey Commissioners of the King's Revenues in Ireland, other than the revenue which belonged to him before his access to the Crown, which nevertheless shall be under the inspection of the said Commissioners, such special clauses being inserted in the new commission as are contained in the former touching the same; with the salary of 1,000l. per annum apiece to the Commissioners; John Ellis, esq., to be Secretary to the Commissioners with the salary of 300l. per annum for himself and 200l. per annum for clerks, and John Thompson, gent., to be agent and solicitor to the Commissioners with the salary of 250l. per annum for himself and one clerk; with all powers, clauses, etc., contained in the former commission.
S.O. 1/12, p. 42
223
March 3.
Warrant to the same—after reciting that Charles I by letters of 20 April 11 Car. I signified his pleasure freely to give to the clergy in Ireland all the impropriations then in the Crown and required the same to be conveyed accordingly by letters patent and other necessary legal instruments, [see Cal. S. P. Ireland, 1663–1647, p. 103] and that Charles II by letters of 20 Nov., 1660, granted that all appropriate rectories, vicarages and tithes then in possession by the expiration of leases and the reversions of those then in lease and all such as were vested in the King by the attainder of persons convicted of rebellion and not to be restored to their former estates should be conferred on the present incumbents and curates of the churches to which the same belonged, who were to be created rectors or vicars according to the condition of such impropriations to hold the same to them and their successors forever [see Cal. S.P. Ireland, 1660–1662, p. 91], in pursuance of which intention a clause was inserted in the Act of Settlement and other clauses in the Explanatory Act [recited]; that the late King being informed that some doubt had been made whether the reversion of such impropriations or appropriate tithes as were in his royal father on 23 Oct., 1641, in right of his Crown were intended to be granted to the said incumbents after the expirations of leases, as well as the interest of impropriations or appropriate tithes forfeited to the King by the said Acts, declared by letters dated 4 July, 1673, his intention to be that the reversions of all impropriations and appropriate tithes whereof there was no unforfeited lease in being whereof he was either seised in right of his Crown or which by forfeiture, attainder or the aforesaid Acts were vested in him, or which at anytime hereafter have been purchased for or given to the use of the Church, should be granted to the incumbents of the parishes where the same arise and their successors forever (such proportion thereof as before Jan. 1, 1664, has been ordered to be settled on the vicars and choirmasters of each cathedral church as an additional provision for their maintenance, and shall within one year from the date of the King's letters have been accordingly settled, only excepted) [see S. P. Dom., 1673, p. 423]; and that the King has been informed that all the aforesaid matters have been settled and divers grants have been made to the several incumbents, or such others in trust for them as were thought fit, but that some stop is now made in passing grants of such remaining forfeited impropriations and appropriate rectories, vicarages and tithes as are not yet passed according to former directions by reason of the demise of the late King and until the King shall declare his will and pleasure therein—to cause letters patent to be passed of all such impropriations and appropriate tithes and the reversions and remainders of them as by any of the aforesaid letters or Acts or by these presents were granted or intended to be granted to the said incumbents in as ample a manner as if every such impropriation, rectory or vicarage or portion of tithes were named in these letters, reserving to the King the rents formerly reserved with such increase of rent as shall be thought reasonable within the times mentioned and limited by the aforesaid Acts.
S.O. 1/12, p. 45
224
March 1.
Bill of Extraordinaries of Sir William Trumbull, Envoy Extraordinary to the most Christian King, from September 2 to December 2, 1685, amounting to 552l. 0s. 1d. (Printed in Cal. of Treasury Books, Vol. VII. Part II, pp. 1116–1117).
At the foot: I do not allow this bill. Sunderland.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 381–2
225
March 4.
Warrant to the [Keeper of Newgate] to discharge and set at liberty Alexander Hall, a servant of John Ayloffe.
S.P. 44/336, p. 383
226
March 5.
The King to the Vice-Chancellor and Senate of the University of Cambridge. Whereas Peter Hasell of St. Katherine's Hall has informed us that he is of nine years standing in the university, which is two years more than is necessary for the degree of Master of Arts, but by reason of being absent part of the time beyond the seas on urgent occasions cannot by the statutes take that degree without our royal dispensation, we, being further informed that he is for his learning and abilities fitly qualified, have thought fit upon the recommendation of your Chancellor, to signify our pleasure in his behalf and hereby require you to admit him to the degree, he paying the usual fees.
S.P. 44/53, p. 483
227
March 5.
The King to the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. Whereas the bold abuses and extravagancies of preachers in the pulpit have not only by the experiences of former ages been found to tend to the dishonour of God, the scandal of religion and disturbance of the peace both of Church and State, but did also (through the licentiousness of the late rebellious times) much increase, to the enflaming, fomenting and heightening of the said distempers and confusions that were then amongst us; and whereas even at this present (notwithstanding and merciful Providence of God, so signally manifested in restoring our royal family and the lawful government of these realms, and putting an end to the great rebellion, and notwithstanding the pious care and endeavours of our late dear brother, and our self ever since, to govern our realms in peace and in tranquillity) it may justly be feared that in sundry parts of this realm there want not men of unquiet and factious spirits who instead of preaching the pure word of God, and building up the people in faith and holiness, will if they be not restrained make it a great part of their business to beget in the minds of their hearers an evil opinion of their governors by insinuating fears and jealousies to dispose them to discontent and to season them with such unsound and dangerous principles as may lead them into disobedience, schism and rebellion; and whereas also sundry young divines and preachers, either out of a spirit of contention and contradiction or in a vain ostentation of their learning, take upon them in their popular sermons to handle the deep points of God's eternal counsels and decrees, or to meddle with the affairs of State and government, or to wrangle about forms and gestures and other fruitless disputes and controversies, serving rather to amuse than profit the hearers, which is done for the most part with the greatest confidence by such persons as least understand them, we out of our princely care and zeal for the honour of God, the advancement of piety, peace and true religion, and for the preventing for the future as much as lyeth in us the many and great inconveniences and mischiefs that will unavoidably ensue if a timely stop be not given to these and the like growing abuses, do, according to the example of several of our predecessors of blessed memory, by these our special letters straitly charge and command you to use your utmost care and diligence that these directions, which upon long and serious consideration our late dear brother thought good concerning preachers, and which we upon like consideration have approved and caused to be reprinted and herewith sent unto you, be from henceforth duly and strictly observed by all the bishops and others concerned therein within your province. And to this end our will and pleasure is that you forthwith send them copies of these our directions, to be by them speedily communicated to every parson, vicar, curate, lecturer and preacher in every cathedral, collegiate and parish church with their several dioceses; and that you earnestly require them to employ their utmost endeavour for the due observation of the same, whereof we shall expect a strict accompt of both of you and every one of them. And these our letters shall be your sufficient warrant and discharge in that behalf.
S.P. 44/57, p. 119
228
March 5.
The King to the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. Directions concerning preachers. 1. That no preachers in their sermons presume to meddle with matters of State, to model new government, or take upon them to declare, limit or bound out the power and authority of sovereign princes, or to state or determine the differences between princes and the people; but that upon all good occasion they faithfully instruct the people in their bounden duty of subjection and obedience to their governors, superiors and subordinate of all sorts, and to the established laws according to the word of God and the doctrine of the Church of England as it is contained in the Homilies of Obedience and the Articles of Religion set forth by public authority.
2. That they be admonished not to spend their time and study in the search of abstruse and speculative notions, especially in and about the deep points of election and reprobation, together with the incomprehensible manner of the concurrence of God's free grace and men's free will and such other controversies as depend thereupon, but howsoever that they pretend not positively and doctrinally to determine anything concerning the same.
3. That they forbear in their sermons ordinarily and causelessly to enter upon the handling of any other controversies of less moment and difficulty, but whensoever they are occasioned by invitation from the text they preach upon or that in regard of the auditory they preach unto it may seem requisite or expedient so to do; that in such cases they do it with all, modesty, gravity and candour, asserting the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England from the cavils and objections of such as are adversaries to either, without bitterness, railing, jeering or other unnecessary or unseemly provocation.
4. That for the more edifying of the people in faith and godliness (the aforesaid abuses laid aside) all ministers and preachers in their several respective cures shall not only diligently apply themselves to catechize the younger sort, according as in the Book of Common Prayer is appointed, but also shall in their ordinary sermons insist chiefly upon catechitical doctrines (wherein are contained all the necessary and undoubted verities of Christian religion) declaring withal unto their congregations what influence such doctrines ought to have into their lives and conversations, and stirring them up effectually as well by their examples as their doctrines to the practice of such religious and moral duties as are the proper results of the said doctrines, as self-denial, contempt of the world, humility, patience, meekness, temperance, justice, mercy, obedience and the like, and to a detestation and shunning of sin, especially such sins as are so rife among us and common to the age we live in; such are those usually styled the seven deadly ones; in short all kind of debauchery, sensuality, rebellion, profaneness, atheism and the like. And because the late licentious times have corrupted religion even in the very roots and foundations, that where there is an afternoon's exercise it be especially spent either in explaining some part of the Church catechism or in preaching some such text of scripture as will properly and naturally lead by the handling of something contained in it, or may conduce to the exposition of the liturgy and prayers of the Church (as occasion shall be offered), the only cause that grew into contempt amongst the people being this, that they were not understood. That also the minister, as often as conviently he can, read the prayers himself, and when he cannot do so he procure or provide some fit person in Holy Orders, who may do it with that gravity, distinctness, devotion and reverence as becomes so holy an action; and whensoever by reason of his infirmity or the concurrence of other offices the same may seem too short or he unable to perform the office of both prayers and sermon at length, he rather shorten his discourse or sermon than omit anything of the prayers lest he incur the penalty of the Act of Uniformity, requiring them to be read according as the book directs.
5. And further our will and pleasure is that all ministers within their several cures be enjoined publicly to read over unto the people such canons as are or shall be in force at least once and the Thirty-nine Articles twice every year, to the end they may the better understand and be more thoroughly acquainted with the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England, and not so easily drawn away from it as formerly they have been.
6. Since preaching was not anciently the work of every priest but was restrained to the choicest persons for gravity, prudence and learning, the Archbishops and Bishops of this kingdom are to take great care whom they license to preach and that all grants and licences of this kind heretofore made by any chancellor, official, commissary or other secular person (who are presumed not to be so complete judges in matters of this nature) be accounted void and null unless the same shall likewise be allowed by the Archbishop or Bishop of the diocese, and that all licences of preachers hereafter to be made or granted by any Archbishop or Bishop shall be only during pleasure, otherwise to be void to all intents and purposes as if the same had never been made nor granted.
Lastly, that for the better observing of the Lord's day, too much neglected of late, they shall by often and serious admonitions and sharp reproofs endeavour to draw all people from such idle, debauched and profane courses as dishonour God, bring a scandal on religion and contempt on the laws and authority ecclesiastical and civil, so shall they very earnestly persuade to frequent divine service on the Lord's day and other festivals appointed by the Church to be kept solemn; and in case any person shall resort unto any tavern, ale-houses, or use any unlawful sport and exercises on such days, the minister shall exhort those which are in authority in their several parishes and congregations carefully to look after all such offenders in any kind whatsoever, together with all those that abet, receive or entertain them, that they may be proceeded against according to the laws and quality of their offences, that all such disorders may for the time to come be prevented.
S.P. 44/57, p. 120
229
March 5.
The King to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Warrant for a grant of denization to French Protestants. (fn. 3)
S.P. 44/67, p. 9
230
March 5.
The King to the Attorney or Solictor General. Warrant for a regrant of all former liberties to Rye, Sussex, with the alterations, additions and regulations mentioned in the paper of heads annexed.
S.P. 44/70, p. 212
Annexed
1. That there be one Mayor, twelve Jurats and twenty-four Common Councilmen and the persons following to be the present ones:
Robert Hall—Mayor; Thomas Freuen, Sir Deny Ashburnham, Sir Edward Freuen, John Sholes, sen., Edward Dyne, Lewis Gillart, Joseph Radford, Miles Edgar, Thomas Odiarne, William Williams, Charles Crouch and Henry Darington to be Jurats.
Colonel John Strode to be Recorder and Samuel Stretton to be Town Clerk.
Robert Wymondeselde, Richard Wymondeselde, John Martyn, Edward Odiard, John Frybody, George Tilden, John Dyne, John Weeks, John Holman, John Robins, John Sharp, Philip Drinker, George Bishop, James Sharp, Joseph Boyse, Abraham Gorham, Moses Peadle, Joseph Cooper, John Jacob, Anthony Knight, John Arnold, Samuel Stretton, Jacob Scarvill, William Couchman to be Common Councilmen or Freemen.
2. That the day of election be yearly on the Monday after Bartholomew Day as formerly, and that the whole parish may be incorporated.
3. Qualifications for the freedom, as for Hastings (see previous Calendar no. 1728).
4. Qualifications for voting, as for Hastings.
5. That no person have a vote for choosing Members of Parliament but the Mayor, Jurats and Common Council.
6–10. Methods of electing officers, as for Hastings except that only three Jurats are to be nominated for the Mayoralty.
11. Liberties, jurisdictions, etc., of the Mayor and Jurats, as for Hastings.
12. That the Court days be continued on Wednesday as formerly.
13. That the Mayor and Jurats may have power once a year to make a tax as formerly not exceeding 1s. in the pound on all lands and inhabitants of the Town for the better supporting of the Corporation.
14. That the ancient fairs be continued, one on May 1, the other on Oct. 17.
15–19. Similar to clauses 13–18 for Hastings.
20. That the court of causes may be held on Wednesday as formerly.
21–25. Similar to clauses 21–24 and 26 for Hastings.
S.P. 44/70, p. 213
231
March 5.
The royal assent to the petition of Sarah Catchmead, widow of Thomas Catchmead, fishmonger, representing that soon after the burning of London the late King issued a proclamation to encourage and give liberty to all persons trading in provisions to sell their commodities in all convenient places in and about the city, by virtue whereof divers fishmongers that were burnt out of it came and resided in the Broad Place near the Maypole in the Strand, but after some time all removed thence except the petitioner's husband, who had a small shed adjoining the conduit there, his losses by the fire, to the value of 7,000l, having utterly disabled him to pay a fine and remove to Fish Street, where he formerly lived; in consideration whereof and of a certificate from the neighbouring inhabitants that the continuation of the said shed would be no annoyance, the late King, by warrant dated March 24, 1670–1, gave him leave to continue in his shed without any disturbance during pleasure; and praying in regard she is left in a mean condition and the said warrant is now out of force, for a like warrant for her continuance in the said shed.
S.P. 44/70, p. 217
232
March 5.
The Earl of Sunderland to Thomas Atterbury, messenger. Warrant to apprehend Daniel Hogeston, servant to Mr. Paulin of Greenwich, for treasonable practices whereof he stands accused, and bring him before me or Sir Roger L'Estrange to be examined and further dealt with according to law.
S.P. 44/336, p. 382
233
March 5.
Like warrant for apprehending Samuel Browne, clerk to Colonel Draper.
S.P. 44/336, p. 382
234
March 6.
Taunton.
Certificate in favour of Maximilian Talbott, an apprentice of Taunton, that he has, even in the dissenting times, constantly frequented his parochial church during divine service and preaching and never did anything unbecoming a person of truly loyal principles until the late rebellion, in which he acted only as a private soldier. Signed by John Smith, Mayor, Ber. Smith, Tho. Towill and William Bidggood, Aldermen.
At the foot: A note by P. Burton, dated April 19, 1686, that he found no presentation against Talbott, nor was he excepted out of the proclamation of pardon.
S.P. 31/3, fol. 317
235
March 6.
To Captain Wright, commander of his Majesty's yacht, Mary. Warrant to receive Daniel Macnamara alias Mortimer on board and to transport him into Holland, setting him ashore at the Brill, or any other port he shall happen to make.
S.P. 44/54, p. 336
236
March 6.
Report of the Duke of Ormonde dated 21 January 1684–5 on the petition of Hugh, Viscount of Iveagh, referred to him on Feb. 27, 1683–4. He states that Arthur, late Viscount Iveagh, had by order dated Oct. 20, 1662, several chief rents granted him out of lands formerly belonging to him and his ancestors in co. Down, for his present support and not to descend to his heirs as the petitioner conceives; however, the petitioner being dead, leaving his son Brian, now Viscount of Iveagh, a minor in a very poor condition, he conceives him to be an object of bounty and compassion.
To be transmitted to the Lord Treasurer for consideration and report, the King being disposed to gratify the petitioner.
S.P. 44/71, p. 252
237
March 7.
The King to the Prince of Orange complaining of the refuge given to the rebels in Holland. (fn. 4)
Holograph. S.P. 8/3, no. 178
238
March 8.
Warrant to the Recorder of London and all others whom it may concern. Whereas Edward Gove was condemned for high treason in New England in June, 1683, and was committed prisoner to the Tower of London, you are to cause him to be inserted in the next General Pardon for the poor convicts of Newgate, without any condition of transportation.
S.P. 44/336, p. 383
239
March 8.
Warrant to the Warden, Principal Officers and Commissioners of the Mint to give order for the engraving of a seal for the Court of King's Bench, according to the draft annexed.
S.P. 44/336, p. 383
240
March 8.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. The King being informed that Cornet Johnston is to be tried at the next assizes for killing Archibald Hamilton, and Sir John Magill, —Dempster, Robert Little, — Norman of co. Derry and Capt. William Hamilton for several misdemeanours, he would have you direct the judges to put off the trials till further order and that in the mean time the parties accused give sufficient bail.
S.P. 63/340, p. 134
241
March 9.
Favourable report by the Lord Treasurer on the petition of Hanna Billingsley (see Cal. of Treasury Books, 1685–1689, Vol. VIII, Part II, pp. 603–604).
To be transmitted back to the Lord Treasurer to give order for a discharge to be passed accordingly.
S.P. 44/71, p. 247
242
March 9.
Like report on the petition of—William Haveland (see Cal. of Treasury Books, 1685–1689, Vol. VIII, Part II, pp. 588–589).
To be transmitted back to the Lord Treasurer to give order for a discharge to be passed accordingly.
S.P. 44/71, p. 250
243
March 9.
Reference to the Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, of the petition of Capt. John Talbot, whom the King is disposed to gratify, setting forth his loyalty and services and praying letters patent confirming to him the town and lands of Ballynescorny alias Balymaleele alias Glango, co. Dublin, whereto his title may be questioned, he having been sequestered of the rest of his estate and this being under an incumbrance (which is discharged) in the time of the usurpation.
S.P. 44/71, p. 251
244
March 9.
Commission to Deering Bradshawe, esq., to be lieutenant of Capt. Bevile Grenville's company in the Regiment of Foot commanded by the Earl of Bath. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 306
245
March 9.
Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General for a Privy Seal, in the words or to the effect following—To Lionel Crofts, merchant. These are to will and require you that within three months after the receipt of these our letters of Privy Seal you set aside all excuses and do return in to our Kingdom of England; and hereof fail you not upon the pain and peril which shall come of your contempt and neglect of this our command.
S.P. 44/336, p. 384
246
March 9.
Warrant to the Recorder of London and all others whom it may concern to cause Matthew Morgan, sentenced to death for robbery, to be inserted in the next General Pardon for the poor convicts of Newgate, without any condition of transportation.
S.P. 44/336, p. 384
247
March 9.
Warrant to Thomas Cheek, Lieutenant of the Tower of London, to discharge and set at liberty Edward Gove, taking recognizance from him for his appearance at the Old Bailey to plead his pardon.
S.P. 44/336, p. 384
248
March 9.
Warrant to all Archbishops, Bishops, Chancellors etc.—after reciting the late King's intentions for the pardoning of such of his subjects who had suffered or whose parents or nearest relations had suffered in the time of the rebellion and who had been prosecuted for refusing to take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy etc., and mentioning the late eminent services of Sir William Penn and the loyalty and good affection of his son William Penn—signifying the Royal pleasure that the said William Penn, his family and servants should not be prosecuted for any of the causes above mentioned and for causing all process or proceedings against them to be wholly superseded, discharged or stayed till the Royal pleasure be further known.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 385–6
249
March 9.
Grant of the dignity of a Baronet of England to Charles Blois of Grundesburgh, co. Suffolk, and to his heirs male.
S.P. 44/336, p. 387
250
March 9.
Dublin Castle.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. In obedience to the commands I received from your Lordship I have acquainted my Lord Chancellor here with the King's pleasure in reference to him, which he received with all possible submission and desired me to acquaint his Majesty that as he had made it the business of his life to serve the Crown, so he should continue to serve the King to his death to the utmost of his power, with the same zeal, tho' he were only a private curate; that there is but one thing that can trouble him which is the apprehension of being in his Majesty's displeasure, which would be a very great mortification to him, and the rather because he says he has received many instances of his present Majesty's favour, as well as of the late King's and he never heard that his Majesty was dissatisfied with him. I suppose your Lordship will put such expressions into the letter which will come by Mr. Porter for the delivery of the Seal to him (for I think that is the form usually observed in such cases) as may be a comfort to the old gentleman after so many years service. He has a very good interest, which I dare undertake he will always employ as he shall be directed for the King's service.
We have no letters from England since those of the 25th past which will make your present trouble the shorter, having no commands from you to give an account of.
Finding in some of the late letters from England that the King has appointed a good part of his Army to encamp this summer upon Hounslow Heath, I beg your Lordship that I may know his Majesty's pleasure if he will have his Army here encamp likewise, which will certainly do the troops good. If the King's pleasure be that they do encamp I shall desire to have particular directions whether the whole Army, or what number of them, and at what time, and how long they should continue together. I should humbly offer that June would be the best time for them to meet. Several things are to be thought of in order to the encamping but the most necessary thing is the providing of tents for the soldiers. I have presumed to send your Lordship here enclosed an estimate of the charge for making tents which I believe your Lordship will find much cheaper than they can be afforded in England, besides that the freight and the exchange of money will be saved; it being matter of money I have sent a copy of the estimate to my Lord Treasurer. I would beg to know the King's pleasure in this particular as soon as your Lordships pleaseth that things may be put in hand if his Majesty will have the Army encamp this summer.
I have nothing to trouble your Lordship with further at present, but to beg the continuance of your friendship and to assure you that I am with all possible respect etc. (fn. 5)
Holograph.
Enclosed
The said estimate.
S.P. 63/351, fols. 163–6
251
March 10.
The Earl of Sunderland to Mr. Cheek. His Majesty would have you admit the Lady Tooker, sister to Mr. Edmund Prideaux, and Mr. Prideaux's wife to have access to and be in private with him in order to the making his defence at his trial.
S.P. 44/56, p. 325
252
March 10.
The Earl of Sunderland to Mr. Cheek. His Majesty would have you permit Sir Robert Dashwood, Mr. Thomas Filmer and Mr. Robert Dashwood, with such persons as they shall bring with them, to have access to and be in private with Mr. Edmund Prideaux in order to the making his defence at his trial.
S. P. 8. 44/56, p. 325
March 10. See also nos. 263–264 below.
253
March 11.
The Earl of Sunderland to Mr. Walrond. I have received yours of the 6th and 8th, with the copies of some informations, which I have by his Majesty's command put into the hands of Mr. Attorney General, from whom you will receive such further directions as shall be requisite.
S.P. 44/56, p. 326
254
March 11.
The King to all whom it may concern. Whereas his Majesty at the humble request of the Queen's Majesty's maids of honour is graciously inclined to extend his mercy to those deluded young women commonly called the Maids of Taunton in the county of Somerset who presented the late Duke of Monmouth with certain colours and ensigns which he made use of in his late rebellion in the West. It is therefore his Majesty's pleasure that those maids or their relations and friends who have compounded or shall compound with the agent employed by her Majesty's said maids of honour shall not be molested in their persons or possessions upon account that they have not yet obtained their pardon for the said crime under the Great Seal, and if any of them are or shall happen to be taken into custody for the said crime it is his Majesty's pleasure likewise that they be admitted to give such bail for their appearance when required as the agents of the said maids of honour shall accept and approve of; nor are they in the mean time to be prosecuted or any ways molested till his Majesty shall think fit to declare his further pleasure.
S.P. 44/70, p. 217
255
March 11.
Like certificate to the effect above for Susanna Musgrave, schoolmistress at Taunton. Minute.
S.P. 44/70, p. 219
256
March 11.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. The King has for a great while thought it absolutely necessary for his service to make alterations in Ireland, both in the civil government and in the army, which he thinks can be no longer delayed without great prejudice to his affairs as well here as there, and therefore he has resolved upon serious consideration and after having received very particular informations from persons of all sorts and professions, that those changes should be now made. He would before the doing thereof have advised with you if you had not so lately come to that government that it was impossible for you to give him so good an account as he has already received from persons of undoubted integrity and zeal for his service, and it would be of the greatest inconvenience to his Majesty that what he has now resolved should not be immediately put in execution. I have already acquainted you with his having nominated Sir Charles Porter Lord Chancellor (who will be ready to go in a few days) and I am now commanded to let you know that he has resolved to remove Sir Richard Reynolds, one of the Justices of the King's Bench, Mr. Robert Johnson, one of the Justices of the Common Pleas, and Sir Standish Hartstongue, one of the Barons of the Exchequer, but he has not yet fixed who shall succeed them. He thinks it also for service that some Catholics should be admitted into the council, and to be Sheriffs and Justices of Peace, and have the same freedom and privileges in all corporations as his other subjects have, and has directed letters to be prepared accordingly. As to the alterations in the army, he has settled them all and ordered the new commissions to be despatched.
I have yours of the 14th and 16th past. His Majesty intends to keep the archbishopric of Cashel in his own hands, and that the revenue should be brought into the Exchequer, as also of the bishopric of Elphin if it be vacant, as he is informed it is, and would have you give the necessary orders therein.
Being given to understand that certain papers or letters of news are printed at Dublin which he thinks fit should be prohibited, he recommends the same to your care.
S.P. 63/340, p. 135
257
March 12.
Order in Council referring the annexed petition to the Committee for Trade and Plantations.
S.P. 31/5, fol. 21
Annexed
The Governor and Company of Merchants trading into the Levant Seas to the King. Petition showing that, being entrusted by charter with the trade into the dominions of the Grand Signior, they have for several years found the continual decay thereof to the great prejudice and damage of themselves and his Majesty's subjects in general; that whereas five or six years since they annually exported near 30,000 cloths, in the past year their exportation fell under 14,000 and they have reason to fear that in the year ensuing the trade will not require 10,000; that they conceive the reason for this to be chiefly the vast importation of raw and wrought silks from India, which has not only abated the quantity but depreciated the value of all sorts of Turkish silk, that from 10 to 20 per cent. is lost thereby and must in a short time well nigh suppress the trade, raw silk being the principal commodity they import in return for their cloth, and although this decay of the silk trade may be supplied from India, they conceive there is no compensation for the apparent loss of 150,000l. per annum by the want of the exportation of cloths, by the manufacturing whereof more families are maintained than by the whole trade of India, besides that all silk from Turkey is purchased with the proceeds of cloth and other commodities of England, whereas all from India is bought with silver and gold, and as the raw silk destroys the woollen manufacturers so the vast importation thereof is not only equally prejudicial to the same but an utter ruin to the vast number of families subsisting on the silk manufactory; and praying his Majesty to enjoin the East India Company to export all the raw and wrought silk which they shall import, or to apply such other remedy as shall seem meet. Endorsed as received March 16 and read March 24, 1686.
S.P. 31/5, fol. 22
258
March 24.
Council Chambers.
[The Secretary to the Committee for Trade and Plantations] to the Governor or Deputy Governor of the East India Company. Requiring a distinct account of cloths or other woollen manufacture exported by the Company from England to the East India in five years to 1681 exclusive and from that time to the present year inclusive, when their Lordships further consider the business in difference between the East India and Turkey Companies.
Draft. S.P. 31/5, fol. 25
259
March 12.
The King to the Attorney General. Whereas Sir Leoline Jenkins by his last will and testament gave to his executors and trustees divers manors, tenements and hereditaments of considerable value upon trust to convey the same for the benefit of the Principal, Fellows and Scholars of Jesus College, Oxford, and towards the erecting of two new fellowships there and for other charitable uses; and whereas the said Principal, Fellows and Scholars are by law incapable of receiving the said trust without our royal licence, our will and pleasure is that you prepare a bill for our signature to pass our Great Seal containing our licence to them and their successors to receive any manors, lands, etc., whatsoever, from any person or persons whatsoever, not exceeding the clear yearly value of 1,000l. and also liberty and power for any person or persons to grant and convey to them and their successors manors, lands, etc., not exceeding that value, notwithstanding the Statute of Mortmain or any other law or statute, and also to contain in part and confirmation of the said two new fellowships and for confirming the scheme in the said will for the better regulating the fellowships and scholarships of the said college, and you are to insert in the said bill such non-obstantes and clauses as you shall think.
S.P. 44/53, p. 482
260
March 12.
The King to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Warrant to prepare a bill containing a general pardon to Thomas Babington, late of London, gent., and Tracy Pansford, citizen and leather-seller of London.
S.P. 44/54, p. 336
261
March 12.
Commissions to John Port, esq., to be captain of the company in the Princess Anne of Denmark's Regiment of Foot whereof Capt. Walter Burdett was late captain, and to Henry Johnson, Esq., to be lieutenant of Capt. William Carvile's company and to Richard Clifton, gent., to be adjutant, both in the Regiment of Foot commanded by the Earl of Worcester. Minutes.
S.P. 44/164, p. 306
262
March 12.
Warrant for a commission to George, Earl of Northampton, to be Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 307
263
March 10.
Warrant to—, messenger, to search the house of—, for dangerous and seditious papers.
S.P. 44/336, p. 386
264
March 10.
Warrant signifying the Royal pleasure that the Charters of Carmarthen and Brecon should pass the respective offices without paying fees.
S.P. 44/336, p. 386
265
March 12.
Pardon to Edmund Prideaux of Ford Abbey, co. Devon, of all treasons etc., committed before March 1.
S.P. 44/336, p. 387
266
March 12.
Like pardon to Edward Strode of Downeside, co. Somerset.
S.P. 44/336, p. 387
267
March 12.
Warrant, in the usual form to all Archbishops etc., and to the Justices of Assize and Gaol Delivery etc., for co. Lincoln, for stay of process against the persons mentioned in the Schedule annexed. In the margin: Mr. Brent.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 387–8
The Schedule
Lincoln: Lord Witherington, Lady Alethia Witherington, Lady Witherington, Dowager, Sir Philip Tyrwhit, bart., Sir Robert Thorold, bart., Sir George Southcote, bart., George Henage, John Thimely, Robert Thorold, Wm. Thorold, Edward Wray, Henry Hilliard, Thomas Markeham, Edward Compton, Ralph Euers, Francis Manson, Wm. Fitzwilliams, Jerome Bartie, Wm. Thorold, jun., Lady Catherine Southcote, Mrs. — Mun of Nauthrop, Mrs. Ursula Clifford, Mrs. Elizabeth Munson of Clixby, Dr. John Constable, Mrs. — Morley, Robert Dickinson, Goddard Booth, Anthony Lloyd, Richard Knight, Robert Bolney, William Kent, John Day of Marston, Wm. Allen of Scauby, William Newton, John Newto[n], John Robinson, Daniel Browne, Peter Belston, Martin Digby, Daniel Fisher, William Simson, Robert Carr, John Tarlton, John Crawford, Peter Lane, Richard Lane, John Young, John Naylor, James Rinuld, Margaret Sheenock, Anne Gibbons, Elizabeth Barns- dale, Elizabeth Dawson, Mr. Martin, John Waipoole, Sir Robert Dallison, bart., Wm. Lynwood, Nicholas Tyrwhitt, John Hawkesworth, John Townend, Stephen Gelthrop, Mrs. Dorothy Compton, George Harrison, John Kent, Edward Berliffe, Joseph Wheatley, John Holland, Mrs. Solomon, widow, Mrs. Carington, Mrs. Anne Saunderson, Mrs. Maddison, Mrs. Faith Hennage, widow, George Dickinson of Lincoln, Arthur Langworth, Thomas Ew[e]rs, Wm. Allen, jun., David Fogarthy, Allen Percy, Robert Scroop, Wm. Turner, John Morley, Edward Morley, Francis Howard, Robert Ditche, James Sherrocke, Edward Peppel of Clixby, Mrs. Mary Withington, Mrs. Anne Whithington, Mrs. Jane Whithington, Mr. Bolton, Robert Warrinor, Thomas Hern, Mrs. Bridget Pennithorn, widow, Peter Bret, Thomas Stevenson, Thomas Dent, Anne Chester, Jane Bennett, sen., Jane Bennett, jun., Mary Bennett, Edward Cronkhorne and Alice, his wife, Wm. Cronkhorne, Mary Brooks, John Oynion, John Howlett and his wife, Wm. Howlatt, Catherine Clarke, widow, Thomas Wright and Frances, his wife, Catherine Browne, John Browne, Richard Hewett and Anne, his wife, Frances Hewett, Anne Hewett, Mary Beeston, sen., Peter Beeston, Mary Beeston, jun., Mary Cronkhorne, Philadelpha Ellis.
Hawthorpe: Thomas Walbanks and Frances, his wife, Elizabeth Walbanks, Mary, wife of Wm. Abbot, James Walbanks and his wife, Mary Greenberry, widow, Richard Barber.
Corby: John Simpson and Mary, his wife, Mary and Elizabeth, his daughters, Francis Mabson and his wife, William Mabson, Catherine, the wife of Tho. Stephenson, Richard Clarke and his wife, Mary, Elizabeth and Martha, his daughters, and Charles, his son, Richard Brooks, John Bullamore and Anne, his wife.
Hackenby: Zacharias Walbank and his wife, John Thimelby, and Dorothy, his wife, Mrs. Mary Thimelby, Nicholas Thimelby, Thomas Sibsey, John Aske, Wm. Beeston and Frances, his wife, Wm. Hodson, Edward Ball, John Boragar, Winifred Peirson, Elizabeth Bissell, Mary Drury, Dorothy Aske, Mary Pettifer, Barbara Deacon, widow, Sarah Shred, Sarah Gipson, Mary Heretage, Peter Browne, John Thimelby, gent., Robert Dent, and Catherine, his wife, John Newton, and Elizabeth, his wife, Elizabeth Newton, widow, Grace Dent, Elizabeth Drury, Thomas Evett, John Drury, Thomas Ball, Mary Ball, Samuel Key, and Anne, his wife, Francis Key, Dorothy Key, John Broxholme and Elizabeth, his wife, Isabell Willows, widow, Wm. Thorold and Mary his wife, John Thorold, Charles Thorold, Mary Thorold, Catherine Thorold, Francis Hyde, Henry Inge, John Cook, Elizabeth Cook, Wm. Tomkins, Thomas Ashby, John Day, Judith Simson, —Perkins, Old Frances, Elizabeth Langley, Mary Staly, William Wright, Mary Wright, William Sutton, Elizabeth Middlebrook, Tho. Heath, Will. Mastin, Barbara Mastin, Elizabeth Ellis, William Scavenger, Jeromy Bertie and his wife, Henry Bertie, Jeromy Bertie, jun., Robert Bertie, Frances Booth.
Fulbeck: Arthur Langworth, Elizabeth Robinson, Mary Barker, Anne Wisto.
S.P. 8. 44/336, pp. 388–91
268
March 12.
Warrant to the Attorney General to prepare a bill authorising William, Earl of Powis, Robert, Earl of Cardigan, Francis, Viscount Montague, George, Lord Abergavenny, Mervin, Lord Audley, —, Lord Stourton, Robert, Lord Hunsdon, Thomas, Lord Petre, Charles, Lord Gerard of Bromley, Henry, Lord Arundel of Wardour and Count of the Empire, Christopher, Lord Teynham, Francis, Lord Carington, William, Lord Widdrington, John, Lord Bellasyse, Marmaduke, Lord Langdale, Hugh, Lord Clifford, Henry, Lord Dover and Henry, Lord Waldegrave all of the Kingdom of England; and James, Earl of Perth, Lord Chancellor of Scotland, George, Duke of Gordon,—, Earl of Buchan,—, Earl of Nidsdale, Claudius, Earl of Aber- corne, Keneth, Earl of Seafort, William, Earl of Kinnoul,—, Earl of Traquair,—, Earl of Aboyne, George, Earl of Dunbarton, Robert, Viscount Dunbar, John, Viscount Melford,—, Viscount Kingston,—, Lord Oliphant, Walter, Lord Aston,—, Lord Mordintone,—, Lord Glairsford, and Richard, Lord Maitland, all of the Kingdom of Scotland; and also Donnagh, Earl of Clancarty, Roger, Earl of Castlemaine, Nicholas, Earl of Carlington, Richard, Earl of Tyrone, Richard, Earl of Tyrconnell, Jenico, Viscount, Gormanstown, David [sic], Viscount Fermoy, Thomas [sic], Viscount Dillon, Carill, Viscount Molineaux, William [sic], Viscount Fairfax, Thomas, Viscount Fitzwilliam, Piercy, Viscount Galmoy, Henry, Viscount Kingsland, William, Viscount Claine, Richard, Viscount Ross, Randolph [sic], Lord Slane, Christopher, Lord Dunsany, Piercy, Lord of Dunboyne and John, Lord Baltamore, all of the Kingdom of Ireland; Lord Thomas Howard of Norfolk, Lord William Herbert, son of the said Earl of Powis, Hon. Bernard Howard, Hon. Charles Howard, Sir Philip Tyrwhite, bart., Sir Henry Titchburne, bart., Sir John Yate, bart., Sir Philip Constable, bart., Sir Philip Hungate, bart., Sir Robert Throcmorton, bart., Sir Walter Kirkham Blount, bart., Sir Robert Thorold, bart., Sir Henry Bedingfield of Oxbrough in co. Norfolk, bart., Sir Edward Southcott, bart., Sir John Southcott, bart., Thomas Arundell, Francis Aston and Herbert Aston, sons of the said Lord Aston, Sir Edward Smith of Ash in the Bishopric of Durham, John Carill, Philip Carill, Henry Hildeyard, Edward Glynne, Francis Howard of Corby Castle in co. Cumberland, Anthony Kemp of Goodwood, co. Sussex, Sir Alexander Irvin of Drum in Scotland, Andrew Wachabbe of Nethrie, Patrick Leslie of Balghoyin, Sir William Valace of Craigie, William Craford of Ardmillan, James St. Clair of Roslin, James Hamilton of Elliston, Aeneas McPherson of Invershi, John Gordon of Rothimore, Walter Innis, Gentleman Usher to the late King, Andrew Hay, son to Sir John Hay, late Register in Scotland, John Rohwart of Meldrum, John Douglas of Steaness, Sir John Sibalt, Dr. of Physic, Sir Alexander Hamilton of Haggs, Gavin Murhead of Lachabb, John Mackenzie, brother to the said Earl of Seaford, Alexander Mackenzie brother to the Viscount of Tarbatt, Arthur Forbes of Balvernie, and —, Macknill of Barra to travel from their respective abodes to the City of London or any other place in England, Wales, and Berwick-on-Tweed and to remain in the presence of the King, Queen Consort, Queen Dowager or the Court or Household without taking the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy etc., and for dispensing them from taking the said Oaths etc., and from all penalties, notwithstanding former statutes.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 412–7
269
March 12.
The King to the Prince of Orange. I had yours of the 14 (N.S.) on Tuesday last, but having written to you the day before by Mr. Skelton I did not answer it till now. I find by it that it froze harder with you than it did here. We have had of late great store of rain, which will make a very fine spring of it. 'Twas a Council day so that I could not write till now I have supped, and am so sleepy that I can say no more.
Holograph. S.P. 8/3, no. 179
270
March 12.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland—after reciting that William, Earl of Strafford, has by petition set forth that his father Thomas, Earl of Strafford, in 1638 purchased the towns, villages and hamlets of Maglaire in Ireland with their appurtenances from Luke Delahide, esq., for 9,000l. and settled them on his brother Sir George Wentworth and his heirs, and that Ruishee Wentworth, esq., son and heir of Sir George, is now in possession of them, but that the petitioner, being informed that before his father's said purchase the said Delahide had mortgaged all or most thereof to Elizabeth, then Countess Dowager of Kildare, did in or about 1666 or 1667 agree with John Nugent, nephew or assignee of the Countess, and paid him a sum of money in full satisfaction of the mortgage, notwithstanding which, the Countess having been outlawed for high treason as guilty of the rebellion which began in Ireland on 23 Oct., 1641, he is informed that the King may pretend some title to her interest in the said lands, and therefore prays a grant and release to Ruishee Wentworth and his heirs of all the King's right and title therein under the rents now in charge; that the said petition was referred to the High Treasurer of England, who sent the same to the Justices of Ireland, who referred it to the Attorney and Solicitor General there and that the Solicitor reported, Sept. 14, 1685, that he finds that Thomas, late Earl of Strafford, on the marriage of his brother, Sir George Wentworth, agreed to settle on him and the heirs male of his body lands in Ireland to the value of 500l. per annum and in pursuance of that agreement about 1638 purchased from Luke Delahide the lands of Mayglaire for 9,000l. and settled them on his brother accordingly, which lands are now enjoyed by Ruishee Wentworth, son and heir of Sir George; that at the time of the said purchase Elizabeth, Countess Kildare, had mortgages on parts of the said lands amounting to 700l.; that it does not appear to him whether the Earl of Strafford was acquainted with the said mortgages when he made the purchase but the 9,000l. which he paid for the lands seems to have been the utmost value they could be reckoned to be worth in case they had been free from all incumbrances; that the mortgages being afterwards set up by some persons pretending a right thereunto under the Countess of Kildare the now Earl of Strafford several years since compounded with them for them and paid them above 400l. in full satisfaction thereof, whereas the deeds of mortgage were delivered to him and are now in his possession, which he did to secure the lands to the heirs of Sir George, notwithstanding which the King may have a title thereunto in right of the said Countess outlawed for high treason; and that it would be no prejudice to his Majesty and would be of some use to the petitioner, by freeing him from any demands Ruishee Wentworth may have against him, to secure him against the said mortgages in case his Majesty should think fit to take advantage of his right thereunto; with which report the Lord Lieutenant and High Treasurer concurred— to cause letters patent to pass containing a grant and release to Ruishee Wentworth and his heirs of all the King's right and title to the foresaid lands, but with a proviso to reserve the rents now in charge and payable to the King.
S.O. 1/12, p. 49
271
March 13.
Warrant to search in the lodgings of Robert Julian in Dukes Street, St. James', in Feathers Court, of Charles Booth at the Wheatsheafe in St. Martin's Lane, and of— —, for dangerous and seditious libels and papers.
S.P. 44/336, p. 392
272
March 14.
Dublin Castle.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. On Thursday last arrived here three packets from England amongst which I had the favour of your Lordship's of the 2nd instant, for the kindness of which I give you my humble thanks and hope I shall never deserve other from you. By the last expression of your letter you put me in expectation of speedily receiving orders from you upon several subjects. I have in some of my late letters entertained your Lordship with news from England and though I am no great believer of common reports yet when some of them, and of no small importance, prove true, one cannot help hearkening something to them; and upon that account I take the liberty to acquaint your Lordship that the last letters from England have filled the town with very great changes that are to be here, not only in the Army but likewise amongst the Judges. Several letters to people here I have seen—some say thus 'You will have great alterations in the Army of Ireland, many officers put out and new ones put in. I have seen the commissions signed at the Secretary's Office, but cannot say how many there are' and so names several to be put out, many of whom are very good men; I must needs say and I am verily persuaded would not be displaced if the King were rightly informed of their persons and merits.
Other letters mention several of the Judges to be removed and say they believe it because such have told it to them and they name for their authors persons eminent about his Majesty; the persons named to be removed are Sir Rich. Reynolds, Justice Johnson, and Sir Stand. Hartstongue and those said to succeed them are Mr. Rice, Mr. Nangle and Mr. Nugent.
I beg leave to observe to your Lordship that I am required by my 4th instruction to enquire into the behaviour of the Judges and Ministers of the several Courts and Judicature and if your Lordships consider the time of my being here, I hope I shall not be accounted negligent for not having given an account thereof hitherto. My Lord, I have not been backward in my enquiries, nor in my observations, and I do not doubt but at their return from their Circuits I shall be able to make such a representation of them as I shall not be ashamed to justify, be it in their favour or to their prejudice. I have very little acquaintance with any of the men. I am sure I can have no temptation to inform anything but the truth of every one.
My Lord, I am directed by my 30th instruction to give my opinion concerning the putting the Roman Catholics into the offices of Sheriffs and Justices of the Peace, etc., as they have been heretofore. I have not been without thoughts upon this matter, but still considering how short a time I have been here, I hope it will not be wondered that I have not thought fit to give a rash judgment in a matter of that importance; for in truth I did desire to advise with men of different persuasions, which is the best way to form the most impartial opinion, and it would not have been long before I should have laid such an one before your Lordship, as I would have stood by whatever it had been. But since I am not ready yet for that, however, that I may not- be blamed for not laying the matter before his Majesty the matter of fact as it stands, I beg leave to refer your Lordship to the Statute made in the second year of the Queen, chapter the first, which directs that all civil and temporal officers as well as ecclesiastical shall take the Oath of Supremacy. I will not take upon me to deliver an opinion upon this law, but leave it to the more skilful. It cannot be denied but that before the rebellion several R. Catholics (but generally those of the English pale) were Sheriffs and in the Commission of Peace, but I am assured that all the Commissions (and some I have seen) require the Oath to be administered—how it was connived at I do not know for the returns do not appear. I am likewise credibly informed that there never was since the making of that Statute any Ro. Catholic a Judge in any of the Courts of Judicature. I have thought fit according to my duty thro' your Lordship's hands to lay this whole matter thus before his Majesty with all possible submission for which I hope he will not be offended, the King is the best judge of all his affairs and when he is thoroughly informed of things he shall find as ready an obedience from me as any one.
My Lord, I shall be able to do the King more or less service here according to the credit and countenance the world finds I have from his Majesty. If these great changes are true how little must it make me (which is not to be valued if my being so in this station did not influence the King's affairs) to know of nothing but by letters to other people or common newsletters. Certainly it would not be to the prejudice of the King's service to have the Chief Governor a little consulted with, especially since whatever character or representations I make of things or persons, the King is only thereby the more fully informed of all particulars and may still do what he pleaseth. Let me beseech your Lordship, upon whose favour and friendship I have so much reason to depend that you will be pleased to consider the 22nd, 23rd, and 28th of my instructions, the observation of which would make me more capable to serve the King and not put anything less in his Majesty's power (which God forbid it should do) nor more in mine.
Having in mine of the 2nd instant mentioned Sir Charles Fielding to your Lordship I should not have said anything more of him but that he has acquainted me that he had a letter by the last packet from a friend of his at London which tells him that he's certainly to be removed and to have Col. Russell's Regiment. Sir Charles has earnestly desired me to represent his case to the King, which I beg leave to do by your Lordship and humbly to beseech his Majesty that he may be continued as he is. He says the being removed from the station he is in to a Regiment is not a preferment to him. Indeed he is a very good man and has always served the King well. I do heartily wish the King may think fit to gratify him in this his request. I do beg your Lordship's pardon for the great trouble I have given you in this letter, but it is according to the freedom your Lordship gave me leave to use towards you, which I will endeavour to deserve by all the testimonies that can be given of respect by, my Lord, your Lordship's most faithful and most humble servant. (fn. 6)
S.P. 63/351, fols. 167–70
273
March 15.
Paris.
An unsigned letter, apparently in a woman's hand, to — — acknowledging previous correspondence.
Holograph. French. S.P. 31/1, fols. 347–8
274
March 15.
Warrant to the Attorney General to cause such of our subjects called Quakers, who are in prison for not coming to Church or for similar causes, to be forthwith discharged and to stop and discharge all fines, forfeitures, etc., as also all processes, indictments, presentments, and convictions.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 391–2
275
March 15.
Warrant in the usual form to all Archbishops and others exercising ecclesiastical jurisdiction and to the Justices of Assize, etc., for Flintshire for stay of process against the recusants mentioned in the Schedule annexed.
In the margin: Mr. Brent.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 392–3
The Schedule
—Wynn, widow, Pernell Jones and his wife, Robert Savage and his wife, Hugh ap Edward of Llanhasta, Joan Chase, Edward Gryffith of Greenfield and his wife, Edward Williams of Caerwys, Wm. Lewis of Petfarry, Jane, daughter of Edwards of Gellitosdey.
S.P. 44/336, p. 393
276
March 15.
Warrant to all Archbishops and others exercising ecclesiastical jurisdiction and to the Justices of Assize etc. for co. Lancaster—after reciting that—Latham of Leverpoole, Chirurgeon, and —, his wife, who keep a boarding school for the education of youth at Leverpoole have lately been molested or prosecuted or threatened for exercising the said several vocations without licence or by reason of their religion (being Roman Catholics), and being assured of the loyalty and abilities of the said Latham and his wife—to supersede and forbear all prosecution against the said Latham and his wife for or by reason of his exercising the art of chirurgery or of his or their keeping a boarding school, and for permitting and suffering them to exercise their vocations.
In the margin: Mr. Brent.
S.P. 44/336, p. 394
277
March 15.
Warrant in the usual form to Henry, Bishop of London, and all others whom it may concern—after reciting that Joseph Harding of the Parish of St. Paul's Wharfe, Seth Ratcliffe of Queenhith, wharfinger, and Wm. Davis of St. Olives Jury have produced certificates of the loyalty and sufferings of themselves and their families — for causing them to be absolved, discharged, and set at liberty and for staying any further proceedings against them.
In the margin: Mr. Ange.
S.P. 44/336, p. 395
278
March 15.
Like warrant to the Custos Rotulorum, Justices of Assize etc. for Surrey for stay of process etc. against William Shewen and Anne, his wife, Samuel Jobson, and Joseph Rawbone all of the parish of St. Mary Magdalen's, Bermondsey, David Newberry of St. George's, Southwark, and Wm. Wavell of St. Margaret's, New Fish St., London, late of Clapham.
In the margin: Mr. Ange.
S.P. 44/336, p. 396
279
March 15.
Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General for a new Charter to the City of Litchfield.
S.P. 44/336, p. 397
Paper of Heads annexed
That the constitution of the Government of this City be altered to a Mayor and twelve Aldermen, viz, Francis Bailey, Edward Wilson, Robt. Bailey, Charles Harryson, Ralph Minon, Thomas Marshall, James Hammond, Nathaniel Willes, Simon Martin, Edm. Hector, Wm. Marshall, and Thomas Torkes.
That Thomas Hammond be Mayor.
That George, Lord Dartmouth be Recorder.
That Philip Pargiter be Steward.
That William Robinson be Sheriff.
That Daniel Beech be Coroner and Town Clerk.
That Edward Dilke and John Blake be Serjeants at Mace, one of which to bear the sword before the Mayor and the other to carry the mace, and these officers to to be elected yearly.
That the Mayor be Justice of the Peace and Quorum during the year of his office and of the succeeding year; and that the Mayor in case of sickness or any other just occasion may appoint a Deputy out of the Aldermen to act with like power in his absence.
That the Recorder and Steward be Justices of the Peace and Quorum.
That Sir John Floyer be Justice of the Peace and Quorum during the King's pleasure.
That Thomas Hammond be a Justice of the Peace and Quorum during the King's pleasure and that upon death or other removal of the said Sir John Floyer and Thomas Hammond, or either of them, the Mayor and Aldermen by majority to choose another of their own body to be a standing Justice of the Peace in his place.
That the Bishop of Litchfield have power of nominating the Mayor, if at his Palace of Litchfield, in such manner as he heretofore did the senior Bailiff.
That all trusts and profits formerly enjoyed by the Bailiffs may be granted to the Mayor.
That all their former rights be confirmed and granted to the Mayor and Aldermen.
The King empowered to remove officers.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 397–8
280
March 16.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Earl of Bath. I have acquainted his Majesty with yours of the 2nd, with enclosed examinations of the assault made by some grenadiers upon Mr. Martin. He would have the offenders left to the civil justice to be prosecuted if the party complaining shall think fit.
S.P. 44/56, p. 326
281
March 16.
Dublin Castle.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. Whenever any packet comes from England there comes with it several newsletters, such as are sent up and down in London to the Coffee-houses, in which your Lordship knows there are very often ill things written and most commonly very foolish stories told, and for the most part lies; these are presently printed here and so dispersed about the Kingdom, and are thought to be published by authority. This has been the practice ever since June or July last, whereupon I have thought fit by Order of Council to forbid the printing of any books or pamphlets whatsoever without licence from the proper persons, which I hope to have your Lordship's approbation on.
Here comes very often books out of France which ought not to be given out of the King's warehouse, till first examined by the Archbishop's Chaplain. I have directed no notice to be taken of breviaries, or hours of prayer, or such books as are for people's devotion; but for books of controversy truly I take the liberty to stop them till further order, and my directions are to stop those which come on either side, which I hope will not be disallowed of; if it be I can easily order the books to be freed.
About ten days since in a vessel from Rouen there came a parcel of books which I have caused to be stopped. The title of the book is Pax Vobis, or Gospel and Liberty against ancient and modern Papists, by E.G., preacher of the word, dedicated to the Right Honble. the Lord Halifax. It is a very ill book and nothing but controversy. Yesterday in a ship from France came a parcel of other books which I have likewise caused to be seized. The title of one is The bleeding Ephigenia etc. and the other A ponderation upon certain Branches and Parts of the Act of Indemnity and Oblivion passed anno 1660. These are not concerning religion but the state and are in truth libels upon the late King and his Government and tend to the stirring up people against the settlements here.
Two days since a printer of this town petitioned to have liberty to print the Papers that were found in the late King's Closet, as they have been in England, which I thought not fit to grant at present till I know his Majesty's pleasure, which I desire to have from your Lordship. I am sure 'tis the safest way not to err to do nothing without directions and orders.
I have nothing further to acquaint your Lordship at present but to assure you that, I am with all possible respect, etc. (fn. 7)
Holograph. S.P. 63/351, fols. 171–2
282
March 16.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland—after reciting that the Duke of Ormond has consented that the King shall hold to his own use the duty of prizage in Ireland belonging to him for one year from 25th Dec. last past for the sum of 2,000l. to be paid by the Receiver General of the revenues there (viz., 500l. quarterly commencing 25th March, 1686)—to issue orders to the Receiver General to pay him the said sum in the said incomes.
S.O. 1/12, p. 52
283
March 17.
Commission to John Arundell of Trerise, esq., to be captain of the company of foot whereof Richard, Lord Arundell of Trerise was late captain, which is hereby incorporated into the Regiment of Foot commanded by the Earl of Bath. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 307
284
March 17.
Warrant to the High Sheriff of Northampton and all others whom it may concern, to forbear putting into execution the sentence of death passed upon Gregory Terry for killing Theophilus Hart until the King has received an account of this matter from the Judges and signified his further pleasure.
S.P. 44/336, p. 400
285
March 18.
The Earl of Sunderland to Lord Chief Justice Herbert. His Majesty being informed that Ensign Douglas in the Earl of Dunbarton's Regiment stands accused for having committed a robbery, and having received some account of the matter, commands me to signify his pleasure that there be no further proceedings against him till his Majesty shall have received a more particular account of the circumstances; and that in the mean time Ensign Douglas be admitted to bail and the security of some of the captains of the said Regiment be taken for his appearance.
S.P. 44/56, p. 327
286
March 18.
Reference to Lord Chief Justice Jones and Mr. Justice Withens, or either of them, of the petition of Humphrey Cowper on behalf of his son who, being a grenadier, killed one of his fellow soldiers and having been reprieved by the late King is now put in the general pardon upon condition of transportation; praying remission of that condition.
S.P. 44/71, p. 253
287
March 18.
Reference to the Attorney or Solicitor General of the petition of Dame Elizabeth Stackley for pardon for having married two husbands.
S.P. 44/71, p. 253
288
March 18.
Reference to the Attorney or Solicitor General of the petition of Ralph, Lord Stawell, whom the King is disposed to gratify, that a horse fair may be added to the fairs now yearly kept at Somerton and that two new fairs for all sorts of cattle and commodities may be granted him, one to be kept ten days before Michaelmas and the other ten days before Christmas yearly, and that the market now kept on Monday may be changed to Tuesday.
S.P. 44/71, p. 253
289
March 18.
Reference to the Attorney or Solicitor General of the petition of Charles, Marquess of Winchester, for a market to be kept at Layborne in the North Riding of Yorkshire on Fridays instead of Tuesdays, which day has been found inconvenient.
S.P. 44/71, p. 254
290
March 18.
Reference to the Lord Chief Baron (before whom the petition was tried) of the petition of Samuel Starkey for pardon for felony and burglary, whereof they were [sic] found guilty at the assizes at Ailesbury in 1683.
S.P. 44/71, p. 254
291
March 18.
Warrant to the Master, Wardens, and Assistants of the Company of Mercers, London. Whereas you have elected and chosen Francis Guy to be Clerk of your Company, which election we have approved and being well assured of the loyalty, integrity and abilities of the said Francis Guy, our pleasure is that you admit him to the exercise of the said office and that upon swearing him into the same you forbear to administer to him the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy or any other Oath or Test, other than the Oath commonly taken for the due execution and performance of the said office.
S.P. 44/336, p. 400
292
March 18.
Warrant to the Keeper of Newgate to discharge and set at liberty James Burton, a prisoner in custody for high treason, he being comprehended in his Majesty's late gracious General Pardon.
S.P. 44/336, p. 401
293
March 18.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause letters patent to be passed granting the dignity of a baronet of Ireland to Edward Tyrell, esq., and the heirs male of his body and in default of such issue to Edward Tyrell, junior, his nephew and the heirs male of his body, with the usual rights and privileges and discharge of payments and services.
S.O. 1/12, p. 53
294
March 19.
The King to the Clerk of the Signet Attending. Warrant to prepare a bill containing a congé d'élire to the Chanter and Chapter of St. David's and a letter recommending them to elect John Lloyd, D.D., Principal of Jesus College, Oxford, to be Bishop of that see, which is void by the death of Dr. Laurence Womock, the late Bishop.
S.P. 44/53, p. 188
295
March 19.
Commissions to Edward Gifford, gent., to be adjutant, in the room of James Nicholson; to Augustine Belson, gent., to be ensign to Major George Barclay's company; to Brice Blaine, gent., to be lieutenant, in the room of Nicholas Morgan, of the company whereof Thomas Weld, esq., is captain; to James Nicholson, gent., to be lieutenant to Lieut.-Col. Marmaduke Boynton's company; to John Goodrick, gent., to be Lieutenant to Capt. George Latton's company; to Nicholas Morgan, gent., to be lieutenant to Capt. John Chappell's company; to Gaven Talbot, gent., to be lieutenant to Capt. Richard Brewer's company; and to Thomas Heyward, gent., to be ensign to Capt. John Gifford; all in Sir Edward Hales's Regiment of Foot. Minutes.
S.P. 44/69, pp. 187–8
296
March 19.
Reference to the Attorney or Solicitor General of the petition of Walter Edwards, sen., Elizabeth Herring, George Seale alias Shill, Joell Hall and Henry Collins to be discharged from Gloucester gaol, where they have been long detained on the writ de excommunicato capiendo and for refusing the Oath of Allegiance, having been always loyal.
S.P. 44/71, p. 254
297
March 19.
Reference to the Solicitor General of the petition of John Griffith, James Warner and Daniel Reynolds to be discharged from Newgate prison, where they have been three years for refusing to take the oath of obedience and no other cause.
S.P. 44/71, p. 255
298
March 19.
Commissions to Henry Sandys, esq., to be captain of the company whereof Capt. Charles Middleton was late captain, to Stephen Ballew, gent., to be lieutenant to Capt. Knyvett Hastings, and to Gilbert Primrose, gent., to be adjutant, all in the First Regiment of Foot Guards. Minutes.
S.P. 44/164, pp. 307–8
299
March 19.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause letters patent to be passed to Colonel William Legg of the office of Commander and Governor of the fort near Kinsale, void by the death of Sir Nicholas Armorer.
S.O. 1/12, p. 58
300
March 20.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Attorney General. The King thinks it requisite for his service that either you or Mr. Solicitor General should be in town, and therefore would have you agree the matter together, that both may not be absent at the same time.
S.P. 44/56, p. 327
301
March 20.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Dr. Dominick Maguire, the Roman Catholic Archbishop and Primate of Armagh, being now going for Ireland, his Majesty commands me to recommend him and also Dr. Patrick Tyrell, Bishop of Clogher and Killmore, and the rest of the Archbishops and Bishops of the Roman Catholic communion in Ireland for your patronage and protection; and being informed that divers of the inferior clergy have of late been frequently disobedient to the injunctions of their superiors, being encouraged therein by some factious persons, he would have you give order that no such inferior clergyman be countenanced or heard till their superiors have been made acquainted with the complaint, that they may inform the magistrates before whom the complaint shall be brought of the state of the matter.
He would likewise have you recommend it to the Archbishops, Bishops, Sheriffs and Justices of the Peace not to molest the Roman Catholic clergy in the exercise of their ecclesiastical functions amongst those of their own communion.
S.P. 63/340, p. 137
302
March 20.
The King to Dominick, Archbishop of Armagh, Primate, and the Archbishops and Bishops of Ireland. We have received by the hands of the Primate of Armagh the letters which you sent us upon the occasion of our accession to the Crown. The expressions of your duty are very acceptable unto us, and therefore you may be assured of the continuance our royal protection and favour unto you upon all occasions, wherein you may stand in need thereof. In the mean time we must recommend it to you to employ your utmost endeavours for the good government of our subjects committed to your charge and for their instruction in true piety and in their duty to God and to us. And you are also to signify to the inferior clergy that we expect they should behave themselves with all obedience to you their superiors and observe such injunctions as from time to time shall be thought fit to be laid upon them.
S.P. 63/340, p. 138
303
March 21.
Gravesend.
J. Baron [Customer of Gravesend] to Will Shaw, esq., at his house in St. James's Street. When I was last in town I acquainted you with an irregular custom of binding servants to the plantations. We find them of late for the most part bound by Lovics, a scrivener on Tower Hill or thereabouts, and by others suspected to be accomplices of kidnappers, directly contrary to an Order in Council of Dec. 13, 1682. I informed the Lord Chief Justice of this lately, who ordered me to bring him the Order, but before I could procure it he was gone his circuit. Since my return I have cleared the Society, Tho. Warren, master, and the Crowne, Tho. Crafts master, for Barbadoes who had many servants on board bound in this manner. The merchants that owned the servants affirmed that they endeavoured to bind them before the Aldermen and Justices in London (as directed) who refused them on pretence that the Order in the time of the late King is void by his death. I beg you will acquaint the Lord Treasurer with this that we may have directions how to behave in this matter as speedily as may be, because we expect several other plantation ships suddenly.
Endorsed: Read at the Committee March 23, 1686, and also, in another hand, as read March 24, 1686. See Cal. S.P. Colonial, 1685–88, p. 165.
The Order in Council of Dec. 13, 1682, referred to in this letter was enforced by an Order in Council on March 26, 1686. See S.P. Colonial, 1685–88, p. 166.
S.P. 31/5, fol. 27
304
March 22.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Mayor [of London]. The King having sent a letter to the Society of the Governor and Assistants of the New Plantation in Ulster in behalf of Mr. Samuel Guillym to be their secretary in the room of Mr. Porter; and being informed that they pretend to have elected another person, who will be presented to you and the Court of Aldermen to be sworn, expects his letter in favour of Mr. Guillym should be complied with, and accordingly would have you forbear to swear any other person in the said place.
S.P. 44/56, p. 328
305
March 22.
Reference to the Attorney or Solicitor General of the petition of John Doddridge that before his Majesty extend his mercy to the Lady Stackley his wife for having intermarried another in his lifetime he may be released from all debts and incumbrancies she has contracted, whereupon he will do anything lawfully to annul the said marriage.
S.P. 44/71, p. 255
306
March 22.
Reference to the Lord Treasurer of the petition of Jeoffrey Grove to be recognizance of 500l. wherein he was surety for the appearance of Christopher Cook his neighbour, and at that time of untainted reputation, he having withdrawn himself in Monmouth's rebellion.
S.P. 44/71, p. 255
307
March 22.
Warrant to Sir Peter Daniel, knt., and — Reading, Justices of the Peace for the County of Surrey and the Borough of Southwark, to go to the King's Bench Prison to examine — Speke, and — Johnson, prisoners there, concerning certain libellous papers (which were found in their Chambers) and concerning such other matters as Sir Roger L'Estrange who is to be present when you take the examinations, shall inform you. You are to examine them apart — Speke first, and Johnson afterwards.
S.P. 44/336, p. 401
308
March 22.
Pardon to Thomas Scroop of Bristol, merchant, John Scroop, his son, and Icabod Chancey of the same City of all treasons, misprisions of treason, crimes and misdemeanors (excepting such crimes as by our Proclamation of General Pardon are excepted) and also of all pains, penalties, indictments and forfeitures incurred by reason thereof.
In the margin: Memo this Warrant was altered, see page 210 [sic]—(no. 354 below).
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
309
March 22.
Like pardon to Richard Hawker of Chilton, co. Somerset, yeoman and William Coleman of Bridgewater in the said county, yeoman.
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
310
March 22.
Like pardon to Arthur Parsons of Hill Bishops, co. Somerset, yeoman, Philip Cornish of Kingston in the said county, yeoman, and Robert Talbott of Staplegrove in the said county, yeoman.
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
311
March 22.
Like pardon to Joseph Whetham of Taunton, co. Somerset, yeoman. John Huinsh of the same, yeoman, and Thomas Walsh of Chard in the said county, yeoman.
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
312
March 22.
Warrant to the Keeper of the Gatehouse to permit Sir John Smith, bart., Mr. Stratford, Mrs. Romsey, Mrs. Jones, Jane Barwick, Julia Windor, Mr. John East, Robert Cook, David Humble, David Jones, Jane Southeran, Mr. Pouse, Mr. Chambers, Mr. Davis, Mr. Brown, Mrs. Brown, and Mr. Allen to have access from time to time to Colonel Romsey whilst he remains in your custody, and also such other persons as he shall desire to come to him about taking his house, you or one of your under Keepers being present.
S.P. 44/336, p. 403
313
March 22.
Warrant to the Attorney General for a Great Seal containing a grant to Christopher Guise, George Ward, and John Robins of the Office of Register of such persons who shall voluntarily go or be sent to the Plantations (which office is lately surrendered by Roger Whitley) to be exercised by themselves or any of them or their deputies for a term of 21 years, with a yearly allowance of 13s. 4d. per annum and with such restrictions as are contained in the letters patent granted to the said Roger Whitley by the late King; and likewise to contain a grant to the said George Ward and John Robins during the said term of 21 years of the Office of Intelligence for the providing of Masters and Servants and other purposes, formerly granted by the late King to Captain Robert Innys, with such clauses, restrictions, etc., as thought requisite.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 403–4
314
March 22.
Warrant to Henry, Duke of Norfolk, Earl Marshal—after reciting that we have granted to Sir Thomas St. George, knt. (late Norroy King of Arms) the office of Garter Principal King of Arms, to Sir John Dugdale, knt. (late Windsor Herald) the office of Norroy King of Arms, to Henry Ball (late Rouge Croix Pursuivant) the office of Windsor Herald, and to Charles Mawson the office of Rouge Croix Pursuivant— authorising and requiring him to place and to create the said persons in the said offices.
S.P. 44/336, p. 404
315
March 22.
The King to Dominick, Archbishop of Armagh. Warrant, out of certain sums of money, directed to be issued to him out of the Exchequer of Ireland, to retain for his own use 300l. per annum and to pay or cause to be paid to Patrick Russell 200l., to John Brenan 200l., to James Lynce 200l., to Patrick Tyrell 200l., to Dominick Bourke 150l., to John Mollony 150l., to Luke Wadding, 150l., to Peter Creagh 150l., to James Cusack 150l., to James Felan 150l., to Edward Weasly 150l., and to Alexius Stafford 40l., all per annum to be received as of the King's free gift and to commence from the feast of St. Michael the Archangel last past and to continue during pleasure.
S.P. 63/340, p. 139
316
March 22.
The King to Michael, Archbishop of Armagh, Primate and Chancellor of Ireland. Warrant to deliver the Great Seal of Ireland into the hands of the Earl of Clarendon, to be disposed of as directed.
S.P. 63/340, p. 141
317
March 22.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause Sir Thomas Longueville, of whose loyalty, learning and ability the King has received a good account, to be one of the King's counsel learned in the laws in Ireland.
S.O. 1/12, p. 54
318
March 22.
Similar warrant for admitting Sir Bryan Oneile, bart.
S.O. 1/12, p. 54
319
March 22.
Warrant to the same—after reciting that by an Act of Parliament passed in Ireland 15 Car. I it was ordained that upon complaint of errors in the Exchequer the Lord Chancellor and Lord Treasurer or in his absence the Vice-Treasurer should have power to hear and determine such errors as the Chancellor and Treasurer before that time did hear and determine, and that in the absence of the Lord Treasurer the ViceTreasurer in the presence and with the advice of the two Chief Justices might give judgment; that the High Treasurer of Ireland is absent and the office of Vice-Treasurer at present void and that although the execution of such part of that office as was only ministerial has been entrusted to several persons no provision is yet made for this judicial part, whereby great inconvenience may arise by discontinuance of writs of error and by other delays of justice and legal proceedings—to cause letters patent to be passed containing a grant to Thomas Keightley, esq., of the office of Vice-Treasurer of Ireland with full power to meet and assemble in the Exchequer Chamber with the Chancellor and the two Chief Justices upon the days of adjournment of any suits or writs of error to prevent the discontinuance thereof and then and at any other duly appointed time to hear and determine the same and give judgment therein and further to execute all other judicial acts and things which to the office of Vice-Treasurer in the Court of Administration of Justice within the Court of Exchequer Chamber appertain, excepted always the ministerial powers and authorities to the said office heretofore belonging and all fees and perquisites due for the exercise of such powers, which it is the King's will should continue to be exercised and the fees thereof received by such persons as have already been appointed; the said Keightley to hold the said office during pleasure, with the yearly salary of 20l.
S.O. 1/12, p. 55
320
March 22.
Warrant to the same to cause letters patent to be passed containing a grant to Sir Charles Porter, of whose learning, uprightness and constant loyalty to himself and the late King, the King has had particular experience, of the office of Chancellor and Keeper of the Great Seal of Ireland in the place of Michael, Archbishop of Armagh, whom the King has thought fit to ease of that office, to hold during pleasure with the usual powers, privileges, etc.; and to cause the Oath of Supremacy and the usual oath of a consellor to be administered to him and to deliver him the Great Seal.
S.O. 1/12, p. 57
321
March 22.
Warrant to the same to cause letters patent to be passed for constituting Thomas Nugent, esq., one of the Justices of the Court of King's Bench in Ireland in the room of Sir Richard Reynolds, knt., during pleasure, and to discharge the said Sir Richard Reynolds from further attendance.
S.O. 1/12, p. 53
322
March 22.
Warrant to the same to cause letters patent to be passed for constituting —Daly, esq., one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas in Ireland in the room of Robert Johnson, esq., during pleasure, and to discharge the said Robert Johnson from further attendance.
S.O. 1/12, p. 63
323
March 22.
Warrant to the same for causing letters patent to be passed for constituting Charles Ingleby, esq., one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer in Ireland in the room of Sir Standish Hartstrong during pleasure, and to discharge the said Sir Standish Hartstrong from further attendance.
S.O. 1/12, p. 64
324
March 23.
St. James's.
The King to the Prince of Orange. I had so much business upon my hands the last post that I had not then time enough to let you know I had received yours of the 21 (N.S.) and that you were then going to The Hague, where you expected to hear some news of the designs which the French may have. I find by the Spanish Ambassador that is here that he is much alarmed at the squadron of ships they, the French, are setting out, as if they were intended only to do them some prejudice. There is, I think, some likelihood of that upon the account of what had been done as to the French effects in the West Indies, but I am still of opinion they will not attempt anything else. I thought to have said more to you but it is now late, and having been a-hunting this day am now so sleepy that I must end.
Holograph. S.P. 8/3, no. 180
325
March 23.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. I have yours of the 9th and 16th. His Majesty approves of what you propose concerning the encamping of his army, but does not intend they should encamp this summer. He approves also of the order you have made against printing and dispersing news and printing books or pamphlets without licence. I wrote to you about this matter some posts ago.
As to the books brought from beyond seas, his Majesty thinks that the directions you have given will have a good effect, and therefore recommends it to your care to prevent the publishing of all such as may tend to disturb the quiet of the place and the minds of his subjects.
Sir Charles Porter intends to be at Dublin some days before the next term, and the letters which he is to carry with him are already signed.
S.P. 63/340, p. 140
326
March 23.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Warrant to give order that Thomas Nugent, esq., be admitted a Justice of the Court of King's Bench, [Denis] Daly, esq., a Justice of the Court of Common Pleas, and Charles Engleby, esq., a Baron of the Court of Exchequer in Ireland without taking the Oath of Supremacy, which has been dispensed with in their behalf.
S.P. 63/340, p. 141
327
March 23.
The King to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Whereas we are informed that several of our Roman Catholic subjects of Ireland are considerable merchants and dealers, who by their industry and undertakings carry on a great part of the trade of the country by means whereof trade is and is like to be much improved and our revenue increased, and yet are so little countenanced and encouraged that they are generally refused to be admitted freemen of the corporations, much less admitted to bear any office, although there is no law that excludes them and even the rules appointing the Oath of Supremacy to be administered to civil officers reserve a power in the chief governor to dispense with it as he shall think fit; and conceiving it expedient that those merchants and dealers and such others as will apply themselves to trade and traffic should be countenanced and encouraged, we therefore require you to take such course by issuing proclamations or otherwise that they, their heirs, widows and apprentices and other Roman Catholics that will apply themselves to any trade or calling be admitted free in the corporations, and in case any of them shall be proposed or elected to serve as magistrates or other officers we require you to dispense with them from taking the said oath, if otherwise qualified. And whereas we are assured that there are several Roman Catholics of known integrity and loyalty and of considerable fortunes and estates that are excluded from being Justices of the Peace, Sheriffs and other officers upon no other pretence than the bare refusing to take the Oath of Supremacy, although no incapacity by law lies upon them on account of the said oath except it be tendered to them by persons empowered by letters patent under the Great Seal of England or by letters patent under the Great Seal of Ireland by warrant from the chief governor, and they thereupon obstinately refuse to take it; and whereas several Roman Catholics before 1641 were admitted into the commissions of the peace and to be Sheriffs and other officers, and were also admitted Justices of the Peace in the time of the late King without any tender of the said oath, we, judging it expedient that they be now so admitted, require you that such as are of known loyalty and sufficiently qualified be admitted into the commissions of the peace and allowed to be Sheriffs and other civil officers without tendering them the Oath of Supremacy, they taking such other oaths as are usual to oblige them to the faithful execution of such office. For all which this shall be to you a sufficient warrant.
S.P. 63/340, p. 142
328
March 23.
Dublin Castle.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. Yesterday I received your Lordship's of the 8th instant directing me to take care for the putting off several trials which were to be brought on at these Assizes. My Lord, the Assizes for the Counties of Down and Londonderry were held on the 8th instant where most of the considerable persons your Lordship mentions were to be tried. However, I doubt not but things are gone as they ought to do, for before the Judges went out of town in the charge I gave them I particularly directed them to take all possible care in the trials of all such as should be indicted for words spoken against the King; and in whatever cases the King was concerned, if his Majesty's Counsel said they were not ready to go on (and some are appointed in every Circuit to be of Counsel for the King) all such trials are directed to be put off till the next Assizes, nay even tho' this be the second Assizes since the men were indicted which may be thought hard and may not be agreeable to the strict rules of law. And this has been observed in such cases as have hitherto happened as particularly at Trim where the Assizes were held on the 25th past and where one Mr. Meredith was to be tried for words; because that matter has made a great noise and the gentleman is well spoken of by people of both religions (I never saw him myself) I desired Mr. Nugent of the King's Counsel to go to Trim, being but twenty miles from hence, which he did, and brought me word that upon his motion and allegation that he was not ready that trial was put off and he much commended to me the carriage of the Judge Baron Hartstonge. When any trials are put off the parties do all give bail to appear at the time, which they have all hitherto (whom I have had an account of) been very ready to do, but indeed the accusers have not been so, but have thought it very hard to be bound to prosecute, and yet that must be or the Judges and Justices of the Peace will be sufficiently blamed. As soon as the Judges return I intend to lay before your Lordship a perfect account of all the indictments that have been preferred these Assizes throughout the Kingdom relating to his Majesty, together with the evidences and proofs, and what has been done thereupon, and what are put off and why.
I have received your Lordship's of the 11th instant to which I shall not presume to say anything, for no doubt the King is the best judge what alterations to make in all parts of his Government and of the times of making them. As to the King's not advising with me first before he resolved upon any of those matters, I look upon his Majesty's declaration of the method he intends to have observed in things of that nature to proceed from the opinion he has that the best information is like to come from his Chief Governor, and as he is pleased to say in his instructions to enable his Chief Governor to serve him the better, I am sure no one information has been given me which I have not transmitted to your Lordships and I shall ever do so and obey the orders I receive from you. But I beg your Lordship's pardon if I make use of that freedom you gave me leave to write you in, depending so much as I have reason to do upon your friendship and therefore you will excuse the moan I make to you in laying before you how little I shall be made in the opinion of people here without some support from your Lordship, when so many and great alterations are made here, and I know nothing of them but from common fame, and especially since some letters which bring the news of changes (and many of those reports are true as your Lordship finds by some of my letters) take care to say that this and this is done and my Lord Lieutenant knows nothing of it. My Lord, I would have the King pleased in everything and my ambition to be best able to serve him makes me make this complaint to your Lordship, which I leave perfectly to your judgment, who very well knows that all men are more or less able to serve the King according to the countenance his Majesty is pleased to show them in their employment. Here is nobody that I can have any concern for, and, if I had, by the grace of God I will never be found to give other than a just and true character, as I am sure I have done hitherto in all the representations I have laid before you.
As to the three Judges your Lordship says the King has resolved to remove I shall say nothing, but in my own defence, I beg leave to assure your Lordship that I have not been backward in endeavouring to inform myself of them, both as to their principles, as well as to their public behaviour in their stations; and upon my word I do indifferently advise with R. Catholics as well as Protestants as I do refer myself to themselves for the truth of what I say, and if I had been informed of anything amiss concerning any of them your Lordship should certainly have had it from me; and I may a little wonder that nobody should tell me anything of them, as well as send their informations into England, since they would have had the same effect of being laid before his Majesty.
Whoever his Majesty shall think fit to put in their places, if I may humbly offer my advice, which I do with all submission, they should be men sent from England, which I am sure the King will find to be for his service.
As to the putting some R. Catholics into the Council and the Commissions of the Peace and to be Sheriffs, it cannot be denied but several of them were in that employment before the rebellion; the only Statute against them I mentioned to your Lordship in mine of the 14th wherein I laid before you the matter of fact and the practice that has been all along observed when they were in those commissions, all which I humbly submitted. Who should be put into the Commissions of Peace ought to be well considered but that is our business here, when the King's letters come, for I do assure your Lordship there is great difference between Irishman and Irishman and as many feuds and animosities between them as between any people in the world.
As to the suppressing the printed newsletters here, I gave your Lordship an account in mine of the 16th of what I had already done in that matter and of some other things in which I hope I have not done amiss.
I have no more to trouble your Lordship with but to assure you that I make it my whole business to serve the King in all his affairs here to the best of my understanding, and I do not doubt but I shall very speedily give such an account of them as will be to his Majesty's satisfaction, which as they will come before your Lordship, so I shall beg your favourable representation of, my Lord, your Lordship's most faithful and most humble servant. (fn. 8)
Postscript: I think I have answered every particular in your Lordship's letters except it be what relates to the Bishopric of Cashell which I had forgot to mention; but I have given all necessary orders to the Officers of the Revenue to bring the rents of that and of the See of Elphin into charge.
Holograph. S.P. 63/351, fols. 173–6
329
March 23.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause Robert Power of the Middle Temple, London, esq., to be admitted one of the King's counsel learned in the laws in Ireland.
S.O. 1/12, p. 60
330
March 24.
The King to the Master and Fellows of University College, Oxford. Recommending John Hudson, M.A., of Queen's College in that University, being informed that he is well qualified by his learning and good manners, to be chosen a fellow of their college in the place now vacant, all disabilities being hereby dispensed with.
S.P. 44/57, p. 123
331
March 24.
Commission to Edmund Warcupp, gent., to be ensign to Capt. Arthur Corbett in the First Regiment of Foot Guards. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 308
332
March 24.
Pardon to Richard Sams of Gregory Stoke, co. Somerset, clothier, of all treasons, misprisions of treason, crimes and misdemeanours (excepting such crimes as by our Proclamation of General Pardon are excepted) and also of all pains, penalties, indictments and forfeitures incurred by reason thereof.
S.P. 44/336, p. 401
333
March 24.
Like pardon to Miles Fleetwood of Aldwinkle, co. Northampton.
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
334
March 24.
Like pardon to Sir Thomas Samuell of Gayton, co. Northampton.
S.P. 44/336, p. 402
335
March 24.
Warrant to George, Viscount Grandison, Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard, to give order for swearing Thomas Coundon as Corporal of the Yeoman of the Guard in the room and place of Wm. Barlow.
S.P. 44/336, p. 405
336
March 24.
Warrant to —to search all suspected places in and about the City of London and Borough of Southwark for some rebels who are excepted in His Majesty's late Proclamation.
S.P. 44/336, p. 405
337
March 24.
Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General—after reciting that Henry Alured has by his humble petition informed us that he has discovered a new art for soaking and covering planks of ships with a bitter and sulphurous matter to protect them from the worm, which proves very prejudicial and dangerous to ships in long and tedious voyages, and praying for the sole benefit of such invention—for a grant and licence to the said Henry Alured, his executors, administrators, and assigns for the sole use and benefit of the said new invention for and during the term of 14 years according to the Statute in that behalf.
S.P. 44/336, p. 408
338
March 24.
The King to the Provost and Senior Fellows of the College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity near Dublin. Dispensing with the statute of the college whereby fellows are not permitted to be absent above 63 days in a year, and with all other statutes, in behalf of St. George Ash, esq., on whose behalf suit has been made for leave to travel abroad for his improvement for one year; he during his absence to enjoy all profits, privileges and advantages to his fellowship belonging and his absence in no wise to prejudice him in his right and pretension to a senior fellowship.
S.P. 63/340, p. 144
339
March 24.
The King to Sir John Ivory. Commission to be Lieutenant Governor of the forts of Duncannon and Passage in Ireland, whereof James, Duke of Ormonde, is Governor, with the allowance of 10s. per diem to be paid out of the lands set apart by Act of Parliament for that purpose with all other profits, perquisites and advantages enjoyed by Col. Roscarock or any other.
S.P. 63/340, p. 145
340
March 24.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to cause Thomas Keightley to be sworn of the Privy Council of Ireland.
S.O. 1/12, p. 57
341
March 24.
Warrant to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland for a dispensation to St. George Ash, esq., Fellow of [Trinity] College, on whose behalf suit has been made that he may travel abroad for his improvement for one year, he receiving all profits, privileges, etc., in as ample manner as if he had resided and his absence in no wise prejudicing his right to a senior fellowship.
S.O. 1/12, p. 65
342
March 25.
Warrant to the Attorney General—after reciting that Obediah Walker, Master of University College in Oxford, Nathaniel Boyse and Thomas Deane, Fellows of the same College and John Bernard one of the Fellows of Brazennose College have humbly sought to be dispensed from going to any Church, Chapel or usual place of Common Prayer and from receiving and administering the sacrament of the Lord's Supper according to the usage of the Church of England and from performing such other acts and things in conformity to the doctrine, discipline, and liturgy of the said Church as by reason of their respective places and by the Statutes, as well as the Statutes of the University of Oxford and the said respective Colleges they are obliged to subscribe, and being well assured of the loyalty of the said persons—to prepare a bill for granting unto Obediah Walker, Nathaniel Boyce, Thomas Deane, and John Bernard a Royal licence and dispensation to absent themselves from Church, Chapel, etc., to abstain from receiving or administering the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and from taking the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy etc.; and for enabling them to hold their respective offices and to remain in the Royal presence or in the Court or in the Household, notwithstanding former statutes, and pardoning them from any pains or penalties that may be incurred by reason thereof.
S.P. 44/336, pp. 417–20
343
March 26.
The King to Colonel John Strode, Lieutenant of Dover Castle. Warrant to admit John Lambe to be a gunner in Artcliffe Fort, Dover Castle.
S.P. 29/359, p. 210
344
March 26.
Like warrant for John Norwood to be a gunner in Dover Castle in the place of Peter Theabould, deceased. Minutes.
S.P. 29/359, p. 210
345
March 26.
Order in Council referring the annexed petition to the Committee for Trade and Plantations.
Annexed
The Bailiffs, Wardens and Assistants of the Company of Weavers to the King. Petition showing that, being entrusted by charter, with the government of the trade of weaving within London and parts adjacent, they find that the traders are become very numerous by the late prohibition of French silks and the admitting of great numbers of Frenchmen and other aliens; that by the frequent importation of vast quantities of foreign wrought silks and stuffs and the present deadness of trade occasioned by the late mourning and cursed rebellion, the traders are greatly discouraged and rendered very poor and necessitous; that the manufacturing of all wrought silks consumed at home would be of great benefit by the great increase of his Majesty's subjects and in order thereunto his late Majesty enjoined the admitting of foreigners to work, but when the petitioners have with much ingenuity, charge and expense of a whole winter's work fully completed great quantities of wrought silks as well plain as fashionable in expectation of a good trade, all their hopes are frustrated by the importation of foreign wrought silks and preference given thereunto although of far less curiosity and intrinsic value than the homemade goods, to the utter ruin of many ingenious artists of good foundations; that when trade was under the like discouragements his late Majesty caused a general life and vigour by his example; and praying that, inasmuch as foreign wrought silks and stuffs are not prohibited, his Majesty will encourage the importation of raw and unwrought silk and that he and his royal consort will give encouragement to the wear and consumption of English-made goods by giving preference thereunto in their wardrobes or by such other ways and means as shall seem most meet.
Endorsed: Received April 9, 1686, and read at the Committee April 21, 1686.
S.P. 31/5, fol. 40
346
March 26.
Order in Council referring the annexed petition to the Committee for Trade and Plantations.
Annexed
The Woollen Manufacturers of Gloucestershire to the King. Petition showing that the decay of trade in the county is so considerable of late that multitudes are not able to subsist, near a fifth part of the value of some parishes being expended in relieving their poor, and no prospect of amendment, but rather the contrary, unless timely helped; and being not the least accommodated of any people in his Majesty's dominions to promote the woollen manufacture, they are willing to encourage it, and the rather that Stroud water, cloth and colours have always been had in great estimation; and their constant course of trade has been to make ready 800 long cloths weekly, but now reduced to less than five, their chief dependence being upon the Turkey merchants, who constantly bought above 20,000 cloths yearly but last year bought but seven; and they have no foundation whereon to build so much as probable conjectures that they will this year sell them five, which is the ruin of their trade (Turkey being the only proper place they send cloths to), which is not occasioned by the want of vend for their cloths there, but the disposal of the usual effects of it here, which always has been a very useful and serviceable sort of silk, the only proper and natural commodity of those parts and mutual cement of their trade; the price whereof is now so considerably fallen for want of vend that the petitioners' trade thereby is quite stopped and its ancient course wholly diverted by the abundance of raw and wrought silk imported by the East India Company, which are no way the effect of the petitioners' manufacture but their bullion; to whom (the Company) indeed they sell 1500 or 2000 cloths a year, but those scarcely sent to the place where they usually deal, the climate being too hot, and the Company usually bought as many when they imported no silk, which, with the private exportation of English and Irish wool, are the chief pressures the petitioners' trade and his Majesty's loyal sufferers groan under, which are a thousand for one that reaps the benefit of this calamity. 70 signatures.
Endorsed: Received April 3, 1686, and read to the Committee April 21, 1686.
S.P. 31/5, fols. 43–5
347
March 26.
The Earl of Sunderland to Lord Brooke. There being a vacancy of a burgess to serve in Parliament for the town of Warwick, I must desire you will not engage your interest till you hear further from me. In the mean time I send you this letter by Mr. Fielding, whom I recommend to your town as being a very honest gentleman.
S.P. 44/56, p. 328
348
March 26.
Commission to Peter Hay to be second lieutenant to Lieut.-Col. Archibald Douglas in the Royal Regiment of Foot whereof the Earl of Dunbarton is colonel. Minute.
S.P. 44/69, p. 187
349
March 26.
Commissions to John Dufour, esq., to be captain of the company weherof Capt. John Carr was late captain; to George Graham, esq., to be captain lieutenant, in the place of James Eastland, to the Earl of Dunbarton's company; to James Grant to be second lieutenant, in the place of John Leeds, to Lord George Hamilton's company; to Peter Wedderburne, gent., to be second lieutenant, in the place of William Owen, to Capt. Thomas Ogilvy's company; to John Tollock, gent., to be ensign to Major Robert Douglas's company; and to Robert Bruce, gent., to be ensign to Lord James [Murray's] company, in the place of James Grant; all in the Earl of Dunbarton's Regiment of Foot. Minutes.
Robert Bruce's commission is erroneously entered as ensign to Lord James Hamilton's company.
S.P. 44/69, p. 189
350
March 26.
Commission to John Brown, chirurgeon, to be chirurgeon to the regiment of Foot Guards called the Coldstreamers. Minute.
S.P. 44/164, p. 308
351
March 26.
Pardon to George Dyker, Thomas Bray and Richard Scading of Taunton, to John Marten of Ryson, and to Samuel Newbury of Yarcombe of all treasons etc. (excepting such crimes as excepted in the Proclamation of General Pardon), and of all pains, penalties, indictments, and forfeitures by reason thereof.
S.P. 44/336, p. 410
352
March 26.
St. James's.
The King to the Prince of Orange. I had yesterday yours of the 29 (N.S.) by which I see you were going back to Dieren, and had settled matters before you went with Mr. Skelton as to what concerns the rebels who shelter themselves in Holland, which ought to make that place too hot for them. You will hear, I believe, very soon of the Duke of Northumberland being arrived in Flanders with his wife, whom he carried away from hence, as they say, against her will, with a design to put her into a nunnery. I have not time to say more.
Holograph. S.P. 8/3, no. 181
353
March 27.
Reference to the Attorney General, to give order on or report, of the petition of Mary Rodes, relict of Sir Francis Rodes, bart., showing that her husband's estate, which was much incumbered by his loyalty and sufferings, has been cleared by the industry of her steward Samuel Barker, a Quaker, and provision made for her children, but that Barker and his wife are in prison for not coming to church, whereby she and her family are like to come to extreme loss, and praying their release.
S.P. 44/71, p. 256
354
March 27.
Pardon to Thomas and John Scrope [sic] and to Icabod Chancey in much the same form as that of March 22 (see no. 308 above), but with the added proviso pardoning them of all indictments, judgments, abjurations, or convictions for or upon the Statute made 35 Elizabeth or any other Statute for not coming to Church.
S.P. 44/336, p. 410
355
March 27.
Pardon to Thomas, Earl of Stamford, of all treasons etc., committed before March 1.
S.P. 44/336, p. 410
356
March 27.
Pardon to Peter Slape, Richard Sweet, Zachary Wyatt, Joseph Hilliard, John Hering and Thomas Newton of Taunton of all treasons etc. (excepting such crimes as excepted in the Proclamation of General Pardon) and also of all pains etc.
S.P. 44/336, p. 411
357
March 27.
Warrant to the Attorney General—after reciting that John Griffith, James Warner, and Daniel Reynolds were committed to Newgate about three years since for refusing the Oath of Obedience, and that it is desired that they should receive the full benefit of the Proclamation of General Pardon—for causing the said persons to be forthwith discharged and for causing the discharge of all process etc. against them either by noli prosequis or otherwise.
S.P. 44/336, p. 411
358
March 27.
Warrant to Richard Graham or Philip Burton or either of them, to deliver to Richard Allison the two following indentures in case the same be in your custody, viz., one indenture between Wm. Cooke of Clifford's Inne and Anne, his wife, of the one part and Mervin Tuchett, Richard Langhorne, Wm. Gawen and Thomas Langhorne of the other part for certain several messuages or tenements in Queen's Street in the Parish of St. Antholyn and St. Mary Aldermanbury in the City of London; the other indenture made between Edward Wray of Lincolnshire and Roger Copley of London for the security of 700l.
S.P. 44/336, p. 412
359
March 27.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Primate of Ireland. The King commands me to signify that he allows you and the rest of the Catholic archbishops and bishops of Ireland to wear your ordinary habits as prelates in public, except the cross usually worn about the neck and upon the breast, which he would have you forbear until further order.
S.P. 63/340, p. 145
360
March 27.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. I have yours of the 14th with one enclosed for the King, upon which he has not yet commanded me anything, but mine of the 11th will have acquainted you with the greatest part of his intentions and in a post or two I shall be able to let you know further.
S.P. 63/340, p. 146
361
March 27.
Dublin Castle.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. Tho' I cannot give your Lordship a particular account of what has passed generally at the Assizes in this Kingdom in matters where the King was concerned till the return of the Judges, yet such things as come to my knowledge I think fit to impart to your Lordship for your entertainment till I can give you more particular relations.
At the Assizes at Londonderry one Wm. Baird was indicted for seditious words and was by the Jury found guilty and by the Court fined in 500l. and to be imprisoned; this short account I have by letter from one of the witnesses by which I am very glad to see that some good Juries are to be found even in those north parts of this Kingdom, but I do not doubt they will always be to be had if the same care be taken as has been this time.
I have likewise had a short account from Down Patrick, where Cornet Johnson was tried for killing Archibald Hamilton, and the Jury brought him in guilty of chancemedly: by which I presume there is no great harm done.
I have had a letter from an Irish lawyer who went the Leinster Circuit infinitely commending the behaviour of Judge Johnson. I doubt not but after the Circuit to give you a perfect account of everything.
I have no more to trouble you with at present but to beg the continuance of your favour and friendship to, My Lord, etc. (fn. 9)
Holograph. S.P. 63/351, fols. 177–8
362
March 29.
The Earl of Sunderland to the Duke of Norfolk. The King has appointed Wednesday fortnight in the afternoon to hear the matter in difference between you and the Lord Chamberlain of the Household in my office.
Memoranda that like letters were sent to the Lord Chamberlain of the Household and the Lord Great Chamberlain.
S.P. 44/56, p. 229
363
March 30.
The Earl of Clarendon, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, to the Earl of Sunderland. Captain Colt's petition having been referred by his Majesty to my Lord Treasurer and by him to me, and I having made a large report to his Lordship thereupon, I need not give your Lordship any trouble in it; but the poor man going into England himself to solicit his own affairs is very earnest with me to recommend him to your Lordship, which I cannot refuse to gratify him in. The truth of it is his case is very sad and his services are very well known to persons of unquestionable integrity in England as well as Ireland. All that I can say is that I have not met with one of Capt. Colt's condition of a better character. I know the King would not have a man suffer who has served the Crown so long; this poor gentleman must be ruined if the King be not graciously pleased to extend his compassion some way or other towards him. I know I cannot leave him better than to your Lordship's generosity, who love to help those who have need of it.
I have troubled you sufficiently upon this occasion for which I ask your pardon and am with all respect, etc. (fn. 10)
Holograph. S.P. 63/351, fols. 179–80
364
March 31.
[The Earl of Sunderland to the Earl of Bath, Lord Lieutenant of Devon.] His Majesty having directed that all the forces shall take certificates from the Governor of chief magistrate of every place before they leave their quarters, and the officers of the Royal Regiment of Foot having presented to him that the Mayor of Exeter, for what reason they know not, refuses to grant them a certificate of their good behaviour and due payment of their quarters, he thinks fit that you appoint some Justices of the Peace or other impartial gentlemen to enquire into this matter so that, at the departure of the Regiment from Exeter, which will be about the middle of next month, his Majesty being acquainted with their report may give necessary orders for the satisfaction of all persons that may appear to be aggrieved.
S.P. 44/69, p. 190
365
March 31.
The King to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Warrant for a grant for fourteen years, according to the statute, to John Finch, John Newcomb and James Butler, for their sole use, of the woven wire engine which, as stated in their petition, they have with great care, cost and charges invented, most advantageous for the use of bakers, millers, mealmen, garblers, glassmen and such professions for the bolting, dressing, sifting and cleansing of meal to any degree of fineness and for cleansing of dust or dross from all spices and metals far beyond any ways or means heretofore used, nor never yet known in this kingdom, the advantage whereof will be great to smiths, turners, weavers, wiredrawers, etc., and instead of using foreign manufactures will settle a manufactory in this kingdom.
S.P. 44/70, p. 221

Footnotes

  • 1. Printed in Japikse, op. cit. p. 727.
  • 2. Printed in Dalrymple, op. cit. p. 179.
  • 3. Printed in Shaw, Letters of Denization, etc. (Huguenot Soc.), p. 176.
  • 4. Printed in Dalrymple, op. cit. p. 166.
  • 5. Printed in Singer, op. cit pp. 292–3.
  • 6. Printed in Singer, op. cit. pp. 299–301.
  • 7. Printed in Singer, op. cit. pp. 308–309.
  • 8. With the exception of the postscript, printed in Singer, op. cit. pp. 315–8.
  • 9. Printed in Singer, op. cit. p. 322.
  • 10. Printed in Singer, op. cit. p. 325.