Minute Book: February 1672

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

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'Minute Book: February 1672', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672, (London, 1908) pp. 1026-1040. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp1026-1040 [accessed 24 April 2024]

February 1672

Feb. 1. At Lord Ashley's house. Present: [besides Lord Ashley] Sir John Duncombe.
Enquire what authority my Lords have to sell the fee farms rents at 18, 17 and 16 years' purchase.
As to the registry of orders on the fee farm rents where any orders are delivered up to His Majesty's use, enquire how the course [of repayment as by the register] is with such orders as are disposed of and why Sir John Bennett have new orders and not orders delivered up assigned to him as the privy seal directs: and enquire of the course touching all such orders. Refer this to Sir R. Long, Sir R. Howard and Mr. Sherwyn, and let them enquire into the form of Sir John Bennett's warrant whether it be in pursuance of the privy seal.
[Ibid. p. 163.]
Feb. 3. Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir Jo. Duncombe.
Mr. Mounteney to attend every Monday in the afternoon.
Sir Tho. Bond was here [at the Treasury Chambers] with Mr. Holder and says that it will be the better despatch to tell three or four bags and take the rest after the same where there are equal bags by weight, it being all of one species and milled money. Write to Mr. Slingsby and the Comptroller of the Mint, whether this about Sir Thomas Bond and Holder is approved by them as a good way.
Sir R. Long is to bring on Monday an instrument how to free certain pensions [from the stop of payment]. And he is also to bring an instrument that the pension to Lady Villiers of 600l. per an. on the coinage should be freed [from the said stop of payment and so made payable].
[Ibid. pp. 163–4.]
Feb. 5.
Monday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe.
Send to Mr. Ashmole, Comptroller of the Excise, for a certificate under his hand of what is in arrear on the Excise of London and on the other Excise Farms. (Out Letters General III. p. 70.)
Sir William Bucknall, for himself and partners, promises this day to Mr. Pepys to pay 2,926l. upon the 11th inst. and 1,040l. in a week after, both which sums are toward the payment of the "Diamond" and "Holmes" frigate, and 1,000l. per week towards the "Emsworth" sloop and "Algier" frigate [viz. for three weeks and a portion], amounting together to the [sum total] of 3,314l. for the said last ships' discharges.
Write the officers of the Navy to know with all possible speed how much of the Navy debt comprehended in the general certificate of 1670, Aug. 4, is already paid, and to what persons and what particular sums, and how much of the said general Navy debt now remains unsatisfied. (Out Letters General III. 70.)
Send to Sir R. Long to know what Mr. Prettyman, Receiver of First Fruits, has paid into the Exchequer, for whom Mr. Porter and Mr. Fenn are bound. (Out Letters General III. 70.)
Sir Tho. Clargis is to attend my Lords to-morrow.
Mr. Allington, Mr. Squib, Alderman Backwell, Mr. Preston, Sir Ro. Long and Mr. Sherwin are to be at Lord Ashley's on Thursday morning.
Mr. Robert Spencer's petition for the arrears of rent and for a new lease of the discovered lands of one Miles Temple is referred to Sir C. Harbord. (Out Letters General III. p. 71.)
The Customs Commissioners called in [and the following matters relating to the Customs are decided]:
They deliver in two papers, one of which is delivered to Floyd.
Butts, Burges and Holland, landwaiters at Bristol, are to be dismissed [sic] by the Customs Commissioners.
A paper of observations concerning the management of the Customs at the port of Bristol is referred to the Customs Commissioners; who are also to consider and report what may be the use of three landcarriage men in said port, my Lords intending to employ [sic] in that nature one Butts, Burges and Holland. (Out Letters General III. p. 69.)
The Commissioners deliver in a paper report of Jersey. This report is to be offered [again to my Lords] when the Treasurer of the Household is here.
[Ordered that] no deputy to any patent officer can or shall seize for the Customs Commissioners.
When any persons have commissions [as deputies] the Customs Commissioners are to be acquainted with the names.
Petition read from William Warren. My Lords grant that he paying 2l. 10s. 0d. a tun should be taken by the Customs Commissioners in consideration of the defectiveness of his Canary wines.
John Allen and Gardner's petitions are to be carried to the Council the next day [the Privy Council sits]. Wolseley to remember this.
The Commissioners of the Excise are called in [and the following matters relating to the Excise are decided]:
Ordered that the Commissioners of the Wine Licences attend on Friday morning at nine of the clock.
Joseph Phrip and Mathew Phrip to be sent for in custody according to the report of the Excise Commissioners.
Mr. Bampfield to be summoned before my Lords. A copy of his charge to be sent to him.
The interest of 12 per cent. to be remitted to Margaret Gipps.
Send a copy of the report concerning decayed wines to Col. Birch.
Col. Birch and the Commissioners of the second Wine Act [Mr. Wingate and Mr. Waring] and Capt. Man and the Commissioners of the first Wine Act [Mr. Bodurda et al] and Auditor Aldworth are to attend at Lord Ashley's on Thursday morning at nine of the clock. (Out Letters General III. p. 71.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 165–8.]
Feb. 6.
Tuesday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Sir Jonathan Trelawney attended my Lords upon the petition of the town of Saltash, and gave my Lords the account that Mr. Seymour and all parties were agreed that the town should have the passage according to their petition. As to the arrears my Lords will move the King.
Send to Sir William Bucknall [to know] why Mr. [Sir James] Bunce be not paid; on the farm of [French] tunage [in Ireland].
Arthur Johnson to be a noon tender at the Custom House.
Joseph Jorden to be recommended to the Customs Commissioners.
Lacy's docquet concerning Audley End: the King to be moved herein.
Enquire of Sir R. Long how near the 500l. for the Paymaster of the Works (charged on the Hearthmoney for work done in the Treasurer of the Household's lodgings) is in course to be paid [on the register]. In the margin: Enquire of Sir John Duncombe.
Mr. Powell to be discharged from the Fleet.
Ordered that the King be moved on Saturday that Sir John Bennet may have the 500l. [which has been] paid into the Exchequer by Viscount Fanshawe.
Such Ambassadors who have money due for their entertainment are to have warrants prepared.
John Hill to be Collector at Bideford [with a salary of] 50l. per an. according to the order before made. If any waiter [be established] there, Walter Spry to be there [in that capacity].
Send to Col. Chamberlaine (Chamber) to attend at Lord Ashley's house on Thursday next.
My Lords desire Mr. Edmund Chamberlaine, farmer of the Excise of Bristol and Gloucestershire, to perform his offer of 300l. to Mr. John Seymour for his [Seymour's] part of the Excise farm of Bristol and Gloucestershire. Write him to this effect. (Out Letters General III. p. 71.)
To show [to my Lords] on Saturday the Earl of St. Alban's letter for jewels for two strangers.
My Lords will speak with Sir Robert Long about Sir John Robinson's order.
[Ordered] that Sir Jeremi Smith, surveyor of the Victuallers, send in an account on Friday next what stores there are and what provisions [for the Navy] are ready provided by the Victuallers and the value of them and where they lie. (Out Letters General III. p. 72.)
Sir Thomas Clarges and Mr. Welbecke called in and Mr. Welbeck's petition is read about keeping stables and stable yards at Reading. Said petition, with the reference thereon [from the King to my Lords], is referred to Sir C. Harbord, Sir Richard Mann, Sir Robert Pye, Andrew Cole and John Harrison, who are to view said Welbeck's grant and the grants from the late Queen [Mother] and King Charles II. to Sir Thomas Clarges, and to view the places that are in dispute.
The business about Moor Park is to be heard on Friday.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 168–70.]
Feb. 7.
Wednesday.		 Present: Lord Ashley; Treasurer of the Household.
The King to be moved on next Saturday for 500l. per an. for the Earl of Kinnoul.
John Smith, John Wood and John Harwood are to attend my Lords on Wednesday next. The Duke of Richmond will send the summons.
Send to the Customs Commissioners for a copy of the establishment of the Customs officers of the outports and their salaries. (Out Letters General III. p. 73.)
Send to Mr. Charnock for an account of the money imprested to him.
On Saturday to [bear in] mind Lord Arlington's [warrant for] 2,000l. for secret service upon the law bill and the [warrant for his salary of] 462l. 10s. 0d. upon the wood farm.
[Ibid. p. 170.]
Feb. 8.
Thursday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe.
Sir William Bucknall being asked why Sir James Bunch is not paid his money charged on the French tunnage farmed by said Bucknall, says that he has discharged all the rent that is [as] yet due.
Send to Mr. Fillingham and Mr. Lawrence to be at the Treasury Chambers to-morrow morning.
Sir Tho. Tipping (erased). The business of Richard Eyre, late constable of Ewell [viz.] of 6s. 8d. Hearthmoney levied by him is to be recommended to the (erased). He will pay the money and the issues to be taken off.
The Commissioners [sic for Trustees] of the Fee Farms and the Auditors [of the Exchequer Court and of the Duchy respectively] are to attend my Lords on Wednesday morning.
Col. Birch to attend my Lords to-morrow morning.
[Ibid. p. 171.]
Feb. 9.
Friday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Send to Mr. William Prettyman to attend on Tuesday morning; and every Tuesday morning Mr. Laurence to be at the Treasury to attend my Lords about said Prettyman's business. In the margin: Wolseley [to take care hereof] and give notice to Mr. Porter and Mr. Fenn to speak with me [Sir Ro. Howard] to-morrow when the Treasury rises. (Out Letters General III. p. 74.)
Mr. Beane to have a supersedeas upon the process.
To continue the salary of Sam Elmy, clerk belonging to the Wine Licences.
Ordered that the Commissioners of the Wine Acts do forthwith make up their accounts with Auditor Aldworth; my Lords taking notice how long the business of said accompts has remained imperfect. (Out Letters General III. p. 77.)
The petition of the seven [Exchequer Court] Auditors (for allowance for taking the accompts of Hearthmoney for the two years ended 1664, Lady Day), is referred to Mr. Sherwin, Col. Webb and Mr. Filingham, the present Agents for bringing in the Hearthmoney. (Out Letters Book III. p. 76.)
The finished paper of the Customs is delivered by Lord Ashley.
Lord St. John's petition is to be presently offered, and my Lords will give their answer on Monday.
The Commissioners of Wine Licences [are called in]. The Wine Licences report from Sir R. Long and Sir C. Harbord is to be [reported by my Lords to the Privy Council in terms] as reported.
Warrant for the Auditors of the revenue for their allowance out of the Customs.
My Lords will do nothing in [the matter of] Mr. Pitt's petition.
The Jersey report after Monday is to be sent up to the King.
Send to Sir Gilbert Talbot to provide plate for the Duke of Monmouth's campaign according to the Lord Chamberlain's warrant.
Sir R. Long to attend to-morrow morning to answer concerning fees and for Lord Chesterfield's 9,000l.
Impost [warrant] for two tuns [of wine] for the Privy Purse.
Write Sir C. Harbord to find out such lands as may be of the value of Moat Park in order to an (erased) to attend on Tuesday morning about Moat Park and lands to be given to the Duke of Albemarle in exchange for his interest therein. (Out Letters General III. p. 75.)
Mr. Mead to attend my Lords to-morrow morning about impost [bills for wines].
Sir Rob. Atkins brings a paper about the law bill [which is] margined.
New letters to be written to the Justices of the Peace about the law bill "and noe clerks of the peace to be used."
Send to Sir John Berkenhead to attend on Tuesday morning and to bring such instrument as he has had direction concerning [a law for a stamp duty to be exacted on dispensations or] licences for holding two livings.
Sir James Smith's petition (for stay of the suit against him upon his bond as Farmer of Excise, co. Devon, for the arrears of his agent) is referred to the Excise Commissioners. (Out Letters General III. p. 74.)
My Lords upon the petition of Lord St. John and partners will report to the King that the fee farms and the register upon them are fully charged and His Majesty by order of Council and under his great seal exempted this from a stop and the course to go on in payment, so that there is no room to gratify the petitioners. This to be drawn for my Lords to sign as a report.
Petition read from Lewis Vicarie (Isaac Vicary, late a sub-collector of Hearthmoney, and Francis Nation, Lewis Vicary and Arthur Vicary, his sureties, complaining of process being issued against them upon a bond of 2,000l. entered into with the said Isaac Vicary, who, as they allege, with great trouble collected about 1,800l. and paid it, but could not collect more for want of distress and poverty of several persons, and therefore praying stay of said process). Referred to Mr. Sherwin and Mr. Filingham to report how he may be relieved. (Out Letters General III. p. 76.)
Send to Mr. Sherwin and Mr. Filingham to attend on Tuesday morning about the allowance claimed by the late sub-farmers of the Hearthmoney. The late grand farmers [of the Hearthmoney] to attend. (Out Letters General III. p. 77.)
Sir Thomas Bond's petition is to be reported [on] to the King. My Lords to sign the report.
My Lords to report to his Majesty that there can be nothing done in Lord Richardson's business, the tin farm not being out this twelve month.
Sir William Bucknall and Sir Stephen Fox are to attend on Tuesday next.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 172–4.]
Feb. 10.
Saturday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Before the report be signed concerning Lord St. John and his partners they are to be heard; which hearing my Lords appoint for Tuesday morning.
The Trustees for Fee Farm rents are to attend my Lords every Tuesday morning. (Out Letters General III. p. 76.)
Write particular letters to every of the Auditors of the Revenue to attend on Tuesday morning next at their peril about the business of the fee farm rents.
Send to Col. Birch to attend on Wednesday morning next about his accompt. Auditor Aldworth to be here then and Col. Birch in the mean time to deliver his accompt to the Auditor.
Send to Sir Jeremy Smith that he sign the estimate he has delivered in to my Lords.
Papers from the Trustees for sale of Fee Farm rents are to be presented to my Lords on Tuesday morning.
[Warrant for] two tuns of wine impost free for the Privy Purse. Mr. Mead to draw a bill for it.
The like allowance of two tuns of impost wine to be made to each of the Customs Commissioners. Mead to draw bills for same.
The Grooms of the Bedchamber to be considered on Saturday.
[Ibid. pp. 175–6.]
Feb. 12.
Monday.		 Present: Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Jacob Westcombe to be deputy collector at Barnstaple. Draw a warrant.
The like letter to be prepared and sent to the Justices for the city of York about bakers' ovens as was formerly sent to the county of Gloucester. Mr. Sherwin to prepare the letter.
Richard Walden to be sent for in custody, according to the certificate from the Auditor.
[Ordered] that all accounts of woodwards be returned to Commissioners to be appointed in the proper counties to examine whether they have been passed according to the proper rules of the forest or place and also whether the payments have been justly made and all [other] circumstances [thereto] belonging. Let the draft of this warrant be shewn to Sir J. Duncombe before being tendered to be signed.
Mr. Mounteney to pay half a year each to the Earl of Bath, the Earl of Manchester and Lord Gerard: and each to have a dormant warrant.
Sir Rob. Howard to write to the Attorney General that the Sergeant may take Mr. Christopher Jay into custody who now uses the protection of the Temple.
Fawson's warrant to be tendered on Thursday morning. Col. Birch to attend my Lords then.
The state of Mr. Meriot's [Marriott's] account is to be presented to my Lords on Thursday.
Order to Mr. Mounteney to receive the small seizures and to pay them into the Exchequer.
My Lords to speak with the King and the Duke of York about an embargo expressed in an order of Council. My Lords will express themselves that foreign ships are not contained in that order.
Ordered that the Customs Commissioners do accept the 10 per cent. rebate on wines as formerly until Michaelmas next and no longer. In the margin: This is in the instructions and there ordered.
Send to the Excise Commissioners that one of them attend every Monday, though [even if] they have no business: and [inform them] that my Lords took notice they were not here to-day when my Lords called for them. (Out Letters General III. p. 78.)
Send to Sir R. Long to know how much money has been paid out of the revenue of the Customs since Michaelmas [last up] to the [time of the] stop of payments upon orders charged to be paid out of the Customs [viz.] to particular persons and their names. [Out Letters General III. p. 78.]
Send to Mr. Andrewes, major of the Barbados Regiment, to draw a petition concerning the pinchgutt money due from the [Deputy] Governor of Dover. Sir Peter Coridon [Curteen] and Mr. Drax to attend my Lords on Friday morning next to meet the Governor of Dover about a letter concerning proper places to receive Custom in the Barbados (concerning the better collecting the 4 ½ per cent. duty in the Barbados). (Out Letters General III. p. 78.)
The Customs Commissioners called in and delivered a paper.
Warrant for the [grant of the] stewardship of Grantham to Lord Roos during pleasure.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 176-8.]
Feb. 14.
Wednesday.		 Present: Sir John Duncombe.
Memorandum: that when the Trustees of the Fee Farms come next [to the Treasury] put Sir John Duncombe in mind for a provision [to be made out of fee farms] for one to look to the woods of the Forest of Dean.
[Ibid. p. 179.]
Feb. 15.
Thursday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Sir J. Duncombe.
Lord Ashley directs that I [Sir Robert Howard] should put him in mind of the Duke of Richmond, the Earl of Suffolk and the Earl of Lauderdale about their pensions.
Remind my Lords to appoint a day for the farmers of the Hearthmoney.
Mr. Marriott and Auditor Beale to attend about said Marriott's accompt of Windsor on Thursday next.
Write Sir John Robinson that my Lords are informed that he has not yet made out and duly returned any certificate of the late subsidy assessment for the Tower of London and Liberties thereof, and that the officers for collecting the duty of Hearthmoney there have not such due admittance and encouragement in making their views [surveys] and performing the said service as they ought to have, and that until that be done my Lords do not think fit to take into consideration his late request for supply of money for the Tower. (Out Letters General III. p. 79.) Write him not only to admit the officers of the Hearthmoney to make their view but also to encourage the collection of the money due for Hearthmoney.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. p. 179.]
Feb. 16.
Friday.		 The accompt from the woodwards of New Forest is delivered to Mr. Lawrence to draw instructions to enquire into the said accompt and into the woodward's proceedings.
"Delivered to Mr. Lawrence this morning by order of Sir John Duncombe the New Forest account of the woodart [woodward] and a note of such methods as have been used anciently for Commissioners in counties where the place is, and he is to report to my Lords the way."
Upon every Wednesday and Friday out of term time when the Privy Council meets in the morning my Lords will meet in the afternoon.
[Ibid. p. 180.]
Feb. 17.
Saturday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir J Duncombe.
Mr. Holder to attend on Monday next.
Ordered that the name of Sir John Duncomb be printed in the like manner as the other Treasury Lords' names are.
Warrant that the coinage money in the Exchequer be paid to Mr. Slingsby but Lady Villiers and the gravers to be paid out of the Exchequer and this to be done (erased) be paid according to former warrants as if the stop had not been.
On every Wednesday in the afternoon Mr. Lawrence to attend my Lords [together with] Capt. Kingdome, Mr. Green, Auditor Aldworth and the Commissioners of [each of] the Wine Acts: and my Lords are [then] to be particularly reminded of Mr. Wadlow's business.
Sir C. Harbord's report read on Sir Jo. Duncomb's petition. Warrant for the King's hand for a grant to said Duncombe of the particulars therein mentioned.
[Ibid. p. 181.]
Feb. 20.
Tuesday.		 Present: Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Write the officers of the Navy to make up their Navy certificates and to bring them in every Monday morning. If they fail their day, send to them next morning. This to be observed always.
On Saturday next remind my Lords concerning the Grooms of the Bedchamber, and if there be not a sufficient remain [of cash in the Exchequer to pay them on that day] then the next Saturday.
Send to the Farmers of the London Excise to pay in the moneys due from them.
My Lords will not pay anything due to the [officers of] the Tower till they [the said officers] have paid the taxes due from them.
The Jersey business to be reported by my Lords to the King in Council according to the opinion of the Customs Commissioners.
Sir John Robinson to have a lease for 31 years according to Sir C. Harbord's report.
Sir R. Long to bring a petition for changing a life as he desires: and then to have the usual order of reference upon it.
The Customs Commissioners are called in [and the following directions are made in matters relating to the Customs].
They deliver in a paper: which is ordered to be put in order.
Protections to be entered in both the Counters that none of the King's Customs officers shall be of juries or inquests or constables or tithingmen.
The Customs Commissioners to take bond of ships entering for Ireland and the like for ships entering from Yarmouth and other northern ports for Newcastle, for under the notion of going thither they go to foreign parts. My Lords will ask the King in Council.
The memorial lately delivered in about wrecked goods is to be directed to the Attorney and Solicitor General and Sir William Ellis for their opinion thereon. My Lords also to be reminded to speak with the Lord Keeper in Council about it.
Upon William Spencer's petition he is ordered to be remitted the 12 per cent. interest charge and his accounts to be passed.
A warrant of detainer to be made upon the petition of Robert Mason and Nathaniel Redborne. Have a care, in drawing it, to specify the petitioner's desire and the equity for securing the King by detainer.
Write Sir John Banks that he would bring back the report from the Attorney General concerning the East India Company.
Rich. Baron's petition is referred to Sherwin, Web and Filingham: and if good security be given the proceedings against him are to be respited.
The petition from John Arderne and John Ramsey, as farmers of Excise of Leicester and Rutland, praying allowance of interest for their advance money, is referred to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. (Out Letters General III. p. 81.)
Same from Anselme and Perry is referred to same.
Warrant to be prepared for the Earl of Suffolk [in the like manner] as others of the Bedchamber.
Sir Edmund Windham to have a warrant to add the words in his grant as desired by his petition and as reported on by Sir C. Harbord.
Lord St. John and his partners [in the late intended farm of the Customs] are called in [concerning providing them some security for their late advance on the late intended farm] and their petition is read about purchasing fee farms for their money advanced on the Customs [by using said debt] as ready money [for the purpose of such purchase.] They move to be let in after such moneys as are now registered on the fee farms. Sir William Bucknall moves to have so many rents set apart as may satisfy the register upon the fee farms, that then they may proceed to purchase on the rest: "that they will take rents not yet returned [in particulars from the various auditors] to proceed upon for satisfaction." These [proposals] my Lords will debate and order presently that Sir Robert Long send a [copy of the] register of the fee farms exactly.
Write the Customs Commissioners that my Lords are pleased that the Collector of Customs at Newcastle shall be continued no longer than Lady Day next: in the mean time that they inform themselves concerning Mr. Isaacson.
Write the officers of the Navy to give an account of what is paid of the old Navy debt.
My Lords having considered the proposal of Lord St. John and his partners upon their petition to purchase fee farm rents by means of the debt owing to them from the King for money lent upon the Customs, are pleased to judge it fit that they shall be admitted to purchase with the said debt as ready money but with these provisions and exceptions, viz: that the register as it now stands at this day upon the said fee farm rents shall be preserved entirely, including Sir John Bennett's purchase of 2,000l.; and likewise all fee farms at this day set apart for the maintenance and payment of any of His Majesty's garrisons, governments or forts: as likewise a reservation of so much money to be charged on or raised by fee farms as may satisfy a compensation to the officers of the fee farms whose salaries will determine by the final sale of them. And my Lords further think that they shall immediately be admitted to proceed upon the purchasing with the said debt, at 16 years' purchase, of such fee farm rents as are not yet returned in the grants for sale.
Ordered that Lord Willoughby's accompt be reported. In the margin: Floyd [to prepare the report] for the King and Council.
On the petition of the Farmers of [Excise of] Southampton my Lords will not allow the interest prayed (struck through).
Ordered that a warrant be drawn as the same is delivered in and amended by the Treasurer concerning the allowance of interest (struck through).
Ordered that Chamberlain's report be returned back and made more plain.
The allowance of interest for [advance rent paid by the Excise Farmers of] Cornwall, North Wales and South Wales is to be as is reported.
Col. Birch, Mr. Kingdome, Mr. Green, and Auditor Aldworth are to attend my Lords on Thursday morning about Wadlow's business.
Warrant for the Earl of Bath for half a year of his pensions [payable] in the Exchequer as Groom of the Stole and as Governor of Plymouth.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 182–6.]
Feb. 22.
Thursday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe.
Lord Ashley directs that concerning the business of Sherwood Forest, wherein the claim of the Marquess [Duke] of Newcastle is about [Lindhurst and Noemanswood] coppices, Mr. William Harbord be consulted with and the business set ready in order, because the intention is that it should be examined [in the same way or time] as the business of New Forest.
Ordered that the Excise Commissioners should have instructions concerning debts to be brought in by Col. Birch and Mr. Lawrence.
The [Deputy] Governor of Dover, Lord Willoughby, Sir John Collidon [Colladon], and Mr. Drax are to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon about the letter to the Barbados, which the Farmers of the Customs of the Barbados have desired of my Lords relating to the duty of 4½ per cent. (Out Letters General III. p. 81).
Capt. Kingdome, Auditor Aldworth and Capt. Thomas Green are to be active in taking care with Mr. Laurence for the vigorous prosecution of the business concerning Wadlow and his partners [in the collection of the moneys of the late Wine Act.]
Col. Birch, Auditor Aldworth, Capt. Kingdome, Mr. Green called in about Mr. Wadlow's business and Col. Birch's account [thereof.] The Auditor proposes that Col. Birch should methodise his account. [Ordered] that the Auditor and one of the gentlemen above may have recourse to the particular gauges that have been taken upon retailers of wine in the district of London, and that some person may be appointed from time to time to shew them.
[Ordered] that the copy of the charge of wines taken out by the present Commissioners of the new [Wine] Act from the Custom House (by which the merchants and vintners stand charged by their entries) be delivered to Auditor Aldworth.
[Ordered] that the same gentlemen consider by what means the first [Wine Act] Commissioners of the outports did proceed, whether they did take gauges whereby they might make charges upon the respective retailers betwixt the 24th of June, 1668, and the 24th of June, 1670, and where those gauges so taken by the first Commissioners remain; and if there were no gauges taken then [said Commissioners] to give account what method they proceeded in whereby charges might be [made] on the retailers and [so] the account to be grounded.
[Ordered] that the same gentlemen [as above] see the duplicate of the rest taken on the 24th of June, 1670.
[Ordered that] the said persons have power to write letters to the Commissioners of the outdistricts to give accompt in pursuance of this order.
Mr. Lawrence to have 300l. [for law charges, &c.] to prosecute the business of Wadlow.
Ordered that such moneys (charges being deducted out of it for following the suit) as shall be secured by Capt. Kingdome, with Green or others on the Wine Act, shall be applied to pay the debts in course.
[Ordered] that the Commissioners of the Wine Act, after Monday next, shall only meet in the term to give their assistance save by special direction from my Lords.
Ordered that George Dawson be immediately displaced and Mr. Isaacson employed.
Write Mr. Lionell Walden that the time within which he lately promised my Lords to come and make up his accounts is growing near and that my Lords desire him to take care same be done accordingly and that in the mean time he fail not to give my Lords a true account of what money of that receipt he has already answered and paid in. (Out Letters General III. p. 82.)
Ordered that Mr. Marryott, Sir Edm. Sawyer and Auditor Beale attend my Lords on Thursday next about the accompt of Mr. Marryott, as receiver of Windsor.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 186–8.]
Feb. 23.
Friday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir J. Duncombe.
Ordered that Mr. Jordan be presently employed as a tidesman.
Refer the petition of John Burgh to the Customs Commissioners for them to examine whether the suggestions thereof be true or not and if they find the matter true then to employ the petitioner in the same place if they think such official necessary; if not then [to provide for him] in the next vacancy of such other place as may be equivalent in value to what he formerly had.
Send to Sir Rob. Long and Mr. Wardour for their certificates to-morrow early.
Sir Charles Harbord to be sent to to consider with the Auditor of the Revenue of some lands to be conveyed to the Duke of Albemarle in exchange for Mote Park, to the value of 7,000l. and to certify to my Lords a particular thereof: the King having been pleased to declare his intention to purchase said park of said Duke. (Out Letters General III. p. 83.)
[Ordered that] "Sir C. Harbord, by His Majesty's direction, doe forthwith present instructions and commissions for A and D for the cutting down of all dotard trees in His Majesty's forest and how to preserve the rest that are good and the value of this."
Upon Mary Pendrell's petition ordered that 100l. be presently advanced to her and put in the grant with the 200l. per an., which is to be continued to her, "and a grant passed for the same."
Estoll's petition is to be shewn to the King on Monday next.
Mr. Lisle's petition is referred to Sir C. Harbord.
Sir Walter Moyle's petition is to be granted as [on the terms in which it] is reported.
Floyd's petition referred to the Agents of the Hearthmoney. (Crossed through.)
Auditor Beale to bring in the account of the Hearthmoney of the late Farmers how it stands. Get the order of Council about it.
An order to be drawn for the Auditors to forthwith to bring in schedules of all such rents of the fee farms as are saleable by the late Act of Parliament that are not in the grant of the Trustees ("which are not yet returned by you [in your particulars] nor granted to the Trustees for sale"). (Out Letters General III. p. 85.)
"On Tuesday morning the Duke of Richmond's business about the business of Farant to attend on Tuesday morning and to send notice to the parties complained against."
Mr. Fanshaw's petition to be presented on Tuesday morning.
[Ordered] that the order for the officers of the Works be according to form.
The Duke of Richmond to have a summons for William Jefferson, James Smith and Ric. Robinson to attend my Lords on Tuesday next concerning the alnage, to answer a complaint against them for replevying and disposing of certain parcels of cloth seized for not being sealed. (Out Letters General III. p. 82.)
Ordered on John Meddall's petition that a warrant be made for the payment of the 78l. 10s. 0d. to Meddall in part satisfaction of his debt.
Mr. Slingsby referred till Monday afternoon about the farthing business.
Col. Strode called in [concerning Barbados affairs]. No sugar to be water born without notice to the officers of the Customs. This to be inserted in the letter to the Governor of Barbados.
Write Sir R. Long to transmit with all speed to Mr. Slingsby an imprest roll of the coinage money. (Out Letters General III. p. 84.)
Petition read from Ensign George Strode and other soldiers of the Barbados regiment for pinch gutt money. Referred to Sir R. Long, Sir R. Howard and Sir C. Harbord. (Out Letters General III. p. 84.)
Col. Strode to be discharged of 100l. he paid by order to Mr. Cranfield and to have warrant to pay same as if to be paid to Cranfield.
Mr. Ben Skut to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning about the men he offered to bring of Sir Toby Bridge's regiment from Barbados.
Ordered that my Lords be moved for Col. Strode about the 350l. due to Sir Charles Wheeler, [Strode] having advanced the money to Sir Charles Wheeler. Query for the warrant and order already drawn in Sir Charles Wheeler's name.
Transfer the order already drawn to be paid out of the [Jour and a half per cent. duty] rent to be paid in by Col. Strod for the Leeward Islands. (Struck through.)
Ordered that Mr. Knight, of London, merchant (struck through), Mr. Fenwicke and Mr. Luckless attend my Lords on Tuesday morning to give an account what they know concerning Mr. Knight's exporting wines and brandies to the Barbados, the King's duty not being paid for the same, according to the information made to my Lords by Col. John Strode. (Out Letters General III. p. 83.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 189–92.]
Feb. 26.
Monday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
Sir R. Long and Sir R. Howard to view and consider Sir John Bennet's deputation [as Deputy Post Master] and [his] account of the Post Office: and to report to my Lords the state of it.
Sir Thomas Osborne to attend my Lords to-morrow.
Sir Ste. Fox's two interest accounts are referred to Auditor Aldworth to peruse and state and certify his opinion thereon with all speed. (Out Letters General III. p. 85.)
The Customs Commissioners are called in and present two papers. To be done as margined.
Mr. Strelly, of Plymouth, to be discharged at quarter day next.
Edmond Tracy to be put in as an officer at Fowey in the room of Umphry Southcott.
A warrant to be drawn according to the instructions for the Customs Commissioners to rebate upon payment of moneys on wines on bonds.
Thomas Framptom to have a deputation as a tidesman, he being now [only] in extraordinary: according to his petition.
My Lords when they go to the Duke [of York] are to speak with him about the two papers concerning pressing men. Give them to my Lords to-morrow morning.
George Strod's petition about his being put out of his place is referred to the Customs Commissioners to examine why he was not employed as formerly in the capacity of a landwaiter in London and whether there is any objection against him as to his honesty and ability. (Out Letters General III. p. 85.)
Mr. Newberrie called in: says he has seized wool that was shipped for Bruges in Flanders, one [of the persons concerned therein] is committed and put into Newgate and he had a warrant for attaching another of the complices: [also] produced a letter from one John Crolter, who didn't name wool. A sergeant-at-arms to go with Mr. Newberrie to seize James Quilter's paper and his person. He lives at Ratcliffe Cross.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 192-3.]
Feb. 27.
Tuesday.		 Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
The persons summoned concerning the alnage are to attend my Lords to-morrow afternoon. The Duke of Richmond will be here then.
Sir William Bucknall to be written to to pay in the arrears of the London Excise farm.
Thomas Southwort, on the next vacancy of a tidesman in London port, is to be particularly taken care of; by command of Lord Ashley.
Write Col. Strangways to attend my Lords to-morrow afternoon.
Warrant that Col. Birch do proceed against such vintners as have not made affidavit according to the report; with extents for recovery of the money due from them.
Write Col. Birch and his partners (Edmund Wareing and Edward Wingate, as Commissioners of the Retrospect of the late Wine Act), to sit till Monday next, notwithstanding any former warrant to the contrary, and thenceforward to pursue such directions as they have received from my Lords touching their further proceedings. (Out Letters General III. p. 88.)
Sir Robt. Howard on Friday next is to remind my Lords about [the Commission of Accounts at] Brooke House.
Warrant to Col. Birch to deliver to the Excise Commissioners his account of the old arrears of Excise presented to this [Treasury] board; with such instructions as he has prepared and tendered to my Lords. Said Commissioners to consider thereof and notify my Lords their opinions therein. (Out Letters General III. p. 88.)
Fawson's business is to be tendered on Thursday, and Auditor Aldsworth, Mr. Kingdon and Mr. Greene are to attend my Lords every Thursday about Wadlow's business (to give my Lords an account how they proceed in the matters referred to them concerning the duty on wines by the late [first Wine] Act of Parliament. (Out Letters General III. p. 88.)
Sir Ro. Howard to go to Sir R. Long about [reserving] for Prince Rupert 3,000l. of the best reassigned orders.
Write the Commissioners of the Navy for them to return to my Lords punctually every week the certificate of the debet, receipts, [as]signments and payments of the Navy as they use to do: and to forthwith send such as are behind and for the future to send such certificate every Saturday morning early before my Lords meet. (Out Letters General III. p. 95.)
Ordered that Aram attend Lord Chief Justice Vaughan to desire his directions for the prosecution of one Quilter for exporting combed wool as is supposed, "and noe warrant to issue from this board for taking Quilter."
Ordered that the King do give 50l. per an. to the poor of York according to a paper delivered in to my Lords by Sir Tho. Osborne. The 50l. per an. to be paid at the Exchequer.
The King refers it to my Lords to order something upon Estoll's petition.
The Earl of Anglesey to attend my Lords on Friday about Mrs. Langhorne's [money].
The docquet for Mr. Lacy's business to be done by my Lords: the particular to be presented to them of what he has to do.
[Ordered that] 12,000l. or 14,000l. be paid, [as part] of the moneys due to the Navy before the stop [of the Exchequer]: but a list of the particulars to be [first] brought in.
The warrant to the Cofferer is to be entered and Sir Ro. Howard is to carry it to the Treasurer of the Household.
Mr. Gold called in. The cause was tried about the city, which was tried on a quo warranto. [My Lords] refer it to be heard before the [Privy] Council on Friday next.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 194–6.]
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