Volume G 251: May 1650

Calendar, Committee For Compounding: Part 1. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1889.

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'Volume G 251: May 1650', in Calendar, Committee For Compounding: Part 1, (London, 1889) pp. 207-242. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/compounding-committee/pt1/pp207-242 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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May 1650

May 1.
Nottingham.
1. County Committee for Notts to the Committee for Compounding. We delivered your letter to the late committee to [Wm.] Nix, one of them. We have taken the oath appointed by the Act of 15 April last, and enclose the certificate thereof. Repetition of former queries. Shall we sell the woods of John Scrope, of Bolton, co. York, which are in this county, and worth 1,000l., and will be in danger of destruction without speedy order for sale thereof? There have been 1,000l. worth sold since his death, and before our employment.
Are moneys in charge to the sheriff, upon extents out of the Exchequer at Westminster on sequestered estates, for particular men's benefit, (but upon what consideration is very questionable and too probably the estate may be abused thereby) to be permitted? Let the expense of 20l. for regaining and repairing a boat sunk at Dunham Ferry, being part of the Earl of Newcastle's estate, by the Cavaliers, which will be an advantage of 20l. a year, be speedily considered of.
Should not a delinquent's estate not seized in his lifetime be sequestered until compounded for by the next heir? Will necessary charges for preservation of sequestered woods be allowed upon account? [1 page.] Enclosing,
1. i. Certificate by Wm. Nix, mayor of Nottingham and justice of peace, to the taking of the required oath by Fras. Bland and Mich. Brett, as County Commissioners for Notts, and by John Hough, their agent. [G 164, p. 321.]
May 1.
Penrith.
2. County Committee for Cumberland to the Committee for Compounding We have not received the late committee's books and papers, but only a brief abstract of what estates lie under sequestration, and not compounded for, and how they were farmed by them. We called the old farmers and others to treat for such estates, and have advanced them to the highest rate, considering the season of the year. We have secured them in several farmers' hands for this year; when we fully understand what charges lie upon the estates, we will give you a full account. For the estates compounded for, which are generally at an under value, we desire we may set forth so much of their estates for so much as they have compounded for, and if the compounders will not be so content, that they may then have the value in money. If you take this course, we are confident to advance the State above 1,500l. a year, four sufficient gentlemen having tendered 1,000l. this year for the same.
We want to know what agents you will allow us, as also the allowance for them and our clerk. Mr. Pollard's man, receiver of the crown rents, and for great arrears upon estates under sequestration, he drives the goods of the present farmers, which if you do not discharge, it is impossible for us to make anything of those estates, or of any other. [To certify what order is given to the sheriffs.] If we are not empowered to imprison the refractory, or have some other way to punish them that disobey orders, we shall be forced to give up our commission rather than be affronted continually by insolent malignants. [1 page.]
May 1. 2a. Committee for 'co. Oxon to the Committee for Compounding. Are we to execute all the orders to the late committee? Will you send further instructions about looking after rents, &c.? Pray appoint us a house to sit in. or order us to take one. [Noted that they are to sit in a sequestered house.] [2/3 page.]
May 1. Account of suits depending between the Trustees for Ireland and the tenants of the Marquis of Winchester and Lord Capel's estates, for arrears of rent, since the estates appointed for raising 50,000l. were in the management of trustees. [G 95, pp. 597, 598.]
May 2. Order of the Committee for Compounding, that this committee will proceed next Monday to choose their officers, and meantime Auditor Collins is to proceed in his business of the accounts.
Note that Nich. Martin, of Lincoln's Inn, is chosen steward for co. Bucks.
3. Order on a Parliament order of 23 April given on Sir Arthur Hesilrigge's report from the Committee for Sale of Delinquents' Estates, — that 1,921l., the remainder of 5,000l. to be presently paid to the use of Fulke Greville, son of the late Lord Brooke, out of the sequestration of the Duke of Buckingham, to whom the estate of the Duchess, his mother, late wife to the Earl of Antrim, is descended, and whose estate, by order of the House of 14 Jan. 1648, was charged with payment of the said 5,000l.; also that the Committee of Goldsmiths' Hall take account how much of such 5,000l. has been received, and what remains unreceived, and issue a warrant for payment of the residue, as soon as it comes in, out of the sequestration of the estate charged with its payment;— that this committee take account of what has been paid, and issue warrants for payment from the estates of the late Duchess. [Also G 1, p. 221.]
Richard Styleman, upon the desire of the Commissioners for London, is chosen agent for sequestration. [G 8, pp. 16, 17.]
May 2. 4. Instructions by the County Committee of Bucks to their clerk.
1. You are to inform the Committee for Compounding that the Duchess of Buckingham is dead, whereby many estates come to the Commonwealth by determination of leases, and much profit by keeping courts; and to desire them to appoint a steward to keep such courts, and to give us an order to detain all annuities granted out of her estate, and made void by her death.
2. That we cannot proceed to the discovery of new delinquents without power to examine witnesses upon oath.
3. That we want assistance, by soldiers or otherwise, to seize the estates of new delinquents, and such as have not wholly compounded.
4. That divers persons in arrears for rent in 1649 and before have offered to pay, and the rents being small sums under 20l., we want to know whether we shall receive them.
5. Ask whether several augmentations granted out of estates shall be paid by us, or returned up to the treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall.
6. We daily need a clerk and agent, and want the one we have temporarily employed to be continued, with a salary for his maintenance. With note that they sit at the White Horse, Aylesbury. [1 page.]
May 2.
Wells.
5. County Commissioners for Somerset to the Committee for Compounding. Our proceedings had proved more beneficial had the [late] committees of this county and Bristol answered your letters, which we desire may be revived by some other power than letters, as they still detain the books and papers, and unless our agents had been very active in discovering sequestered estates, our hands would have been tied.
We have not granted any lease without improving the rent, and freeing the State from all taxes. There are several estates here under extents, some, we believe, merely to retard the State from the profits, particularly that at Witham, belonging to Sir Ralph Hopton, which is let at 250l. a year, though worth 600l. Details of extents on that estate. Considerable sums might be made of the woods and timber of the estates.
The arrears of rents and surveys of sequestered estates here can never be perfected till the [late] committees or their sequestrators have delivered us copies of their books and accounts, and we are empowered to keep courts, for which we desire the bearer may have a commission; also that he may act as clerk to us, and that a salary may be allowed for two assistants to each of our agents. Let a penalty be set upon the persons of whom he has a list, for refusing to pay their arrears of rent after being duly summoned. [1 page.]
May 3. 6. Proposals offered by Samuel Bull, one of the County Committee for Dorset, to the Committee for Compounding.
1. Whether the county committee are to dispose of impropriations sequestered from recusants and delinquents, or of other sequestered estates.
2. The want of power to keep courts upon sequestered manors is prejudicial to the State.
3. In case the Committee for Compounding will empower a steward to keep courts in co. Dorset, Joseph Darby, and attorney, is a fit man.
4. The Committee for Compounding to appoint a salary for Edm. Keynell and John Rush, the clerk and messenger chosen by the county committee. [1 page.]
May 3. 7. Committee in London to the Committee for Compounding. We sent to the late County Committee for London for their books and papers, and enclose their reply, by which you will perceive that we are incapable of proceeding in our business. We also send a certificate of our having taken the oath as appointed by the Act. [¾ page.] Enclosing,
7. i. Late County Committee for London to the present County Committee. According to the order from the Committee for Compounding of 1 Feb. 1650, we have returned a certificate of the estates of delinquents and Papists now under sequestration, specifying where they lie, their value, the leases made, and what arrears of rent were due 25 March 1649, since which we have been requested to furnish particulars of all delinquents' and Papists' estates sequestered, as also what has been received, and how discharged; but as it would require much time and cost, and we were cut off from the receipt of money since 25 Jan. last, — having scarcely anything to pay the rents and assessments for the house we sat in, and our officers' wages, — we signified our incapacity to do what was required without an allowance, which John Ashe, the then chairman, considered just, but as yet nothing has been done in the matter. 2 May 1650. [¾ page.]
May 3. Charges by Col. John Pyne against the new Commissioners for co. Somerset, appointed by procurement of John Ashe, late chairman at Goldsmiths' Hall, viz., Capt. Benj. Mason for letting estates to Cavaliers and Papists and their favourers, and having married into a Papist family; Capt. Sampson for having, as governor of Bristol Castle, opposed that army's taking the engagement, for which he was cashiered, and for having sons in the King's army Thos. Shute, as having served in Lord Hopton's army, being a great delinquent and a treature of Ashe. [G 102, p. 311.]
May 3. Deposition of Capt. John Barker, that Capt. Ben. Mason, one of the Sequestration Commissioners for co. Somerset, was much disaffected against Parliament, and had stiffly pleaded for a personal treaty with his Majesty; he now pleads that he shall prove a better servant to the State than those who had always been with them, having changed on mature deliberation, but neither he nor his fellow commissioners have taken the engagement. [G 102, p. 323.]
May 3. Order in the Committee for Compounding, on informations by Alex. Popham, Col. John Pyne, and others, presented by Capt. Barker against Latimer Sampson, Benj. Mason, and Thos. Shute, Sequestration Commissioners for co. Somerset, that Mr. Reading examine witnesses on the articles, and Col. Pyne prove them. With letter to Col. John Pyne, requesting proof accordingly. [G 8, p. 20; 10, p. 20.]
May 3.
Northwich.
8. Hen. Cockson, County Commissioner for Cheshire, to the Committee for Compounding. We received your letters and instructions to us and the late committee. We like well the power given to us to examine upon oath, but we do not find any power to send for witnesses, or compel them to attend.
As to the last directions to seize and sequester the estates of persons who have not compounded, our power is far short of what the former committee had; they could take the constables and such other assistance as they thought meet; and if resisted, open doors, locks, &c.; nor have we power to seize upon any undertaker's estate, if rent be unpaid, but merely to demand it. If we could put the former ordinances in execution, we should be better able to perform our trust. It is hinted that Mr. Shaw is appointed solicitor, but we hear nothing of him. [1 page.]
May 3. Certificate by And. Solace that Giles Hancock, of Cirencester, a subcommissioner for sequestrations, and J.P. for co. Gloucester, has taken his oath to perform his trust according to the Act appointing the Committee for Compounding, &c. [G 89, p. 1,083.]
May 4.
Exeter.
9. Major James Pearse, Commissioner for Sequestrations, to the Committee for Compounding. Restatement of particulars, as given April 17. [See p. 198 supra.]
There not being power given to call witnesses before us to make good charges for the discovery of any not yet sequestered, or who have not compounded according to the full value of their estates, unless any will voluntarily inform, no new discovery can be made; and then how many who can give testimony for the advantage of the State, through sullenness and disaffection, will be silent?
You allow but one agent, and no other officer; and for us to enter upon and seize all delinquents' real and personal estates, which heretofore was agent's work, will be neither honourable nor safe. The former agents had power to require the assistance not only of the officers of the civil government, but of the military, in case of opposition, and surely this is no time of greater security or less danger to those who have to do in abuses of this nature.
When we have seized and secured the goods, there is no direction as to keeping them, but at our own charge and hazard of our lives. Though the salary will not bear half the charge, that is not so much looked at, but few will take such employment unless the power is enlarged.
There is also no power given to call before us or examine the agents and other officers of the old committee, who had the whole management of the letting of all estates; and if any damage comes to the State by letting at under-value or concealing estates, it is in them; besides, I believe much money lies in their hands. Little can be done until a duplicate is given in by that committee, according to the Act, and they, having so much relied on their agents and other officers whose power is taken away, are not able to furnish it so suddenly.
Since the sending down of the above commission, a new vote having been passed by the former commissioners, by which Mr. Marshall and Capt. Hunkyn are dismissed, and others put in their place, no prosecution has been made of the business, but only what has lain in my power. I have sent to the old committee to hasten in the duplicates, so that we might be ready on receipt of your further commands; but as yet it has only produced the enclosed list of delinquents and Papists now under sequestration, with particulars, in the nature of a rental, of what the estates were let for, or valued at a year, by which it appears that many of them lie void.
I received your letter of 20 April, with the additional Act and instructions, as also a letter for the [late] committee, which I sent. I also received two letters from the old Committee for Compounding, with two lists for sequestering divers persons who have not perfected their compositions. This will be a work of time, there being no power to appoint agents or to give allowance to any called to assist; and when the commissioners meet, they will find too much work to sit and take informations, and will not be able to do both in person.
I shall safely keep your letters and instructions, there being at present no one to join with me for carrying on the business. I have done my utmost, so far as one could do, to promote the service. I can testify to Mr. Carter's diligence and pains to set the business on foot, though to his great expense; he is a very honest man, and fit for the employment. As nothing can be done for want of commissioners, I have sent him up to you for his instructions and for my dismissal, as granted to those who first joined with me, having many public trusts which take up much of my time. I am receiver-general for the assessment of 90,000l. and 60,000l. a month, which I cannot now well follow, and have already spent much myself for the public without any consideration; and there is a proviso in the commission that if any one of us act by virtue thereof, having any money of the Commonwealth's in his hands, he will act at his peril. Money is still coming into my hands, and therefore I desire some other may be thought of in my room; for what I have hitherto done, I beg your favourable construction, as it has been out of my zeal to promote the public good. [2 pages.] Enclosing,
9. i. List of the late members of the County Committee in, the City of Exeter and County, viz.:— Aldermen Bennet, Saunders, who was treasurer, and Gould; Rich. Evans, and Rich. Crossing; also John Goswell and — Cleare, of Southgate, agents, and John Mills, secretary. With note that when the writer showed Mills the Act, he said he cared nothing for it, and used other unseemly language. [½ page.]
May 4.
St. Alban's.
10. County Committee for Herts to the Committee for Compounding. There are only two delinquents' estates undischarged within the Hundreds of Cashio and Dacorum, viz., Thos. Coningsby's of North Mimms, let at 270l. a year by the county committee in 1644, over and above the 1/5, payable to Mrs. [Martha] Coningsby, but which at Michaelmas 1645 was let at 108l., beside the said 1/5 part. The lands were extended by James Silverlock, by virtue of a recognizance which Coningsby acknowledged, and which was allowed by the Committee for Sequestrations, and amounted to 240l. 2s. It might be worth more if it were not for the opposition of Coningsby. It is now let by us from year to year to several tenants, but there are debts due thereout. Particulars of the debts.
The other was the estate of Christopher Chresacre Moore, a Papist, in the same parish, the yearly value 342l. 3s. 8d., out of which there is an annuity of 133l. 6s. 8d., payable to Sir Mathew Lister, and granted him upon Moore's composition for recusancy. This estate has been also let by us to yearly tenants, and the rents applied to payment of the said annuity and other matters, but Moore having deceased on 24 March 1649, the annuity fell to Parliament, save a third which went to his son. [1 sheet.]
May 4.
Kendal.
11. County Committee for Westmoreland to the Committee for Compounding. We have received yours with the instructions and Acts, and delivered the letter for the late Committee for Sequestrations. Some of us have taken the oath before Col. Gervase Benson, Justice of Peace, and enclose a certificate, and Col. Benson will take the oath before some other justice; Roger Bateman, now in Yorkshire, will take it on his return.
According to instructions from the late Committee for Compounding, we have ascertained the value of several delinquents' estates, and treated with those who would give the best value, and last month we certified thereon, and what might be raised by wood sales, and what customary and finable rents were under sequestration. Also we sent a charge and some petitions against Major Arth. Scaife, Cornet Lancelot Scaife, and Robert Wardell, late sequestrator, but we have received no answer, whereby much prejudice may accrue, no leases being made of the said lands, no profits of the woods, no benefit to the State by raising fines for want of the keeping of courts, and the Major continuing in forcible possession, and not suffering us to seize, according to the Acts and our instructions.
We likewise named some men as officers, without whom we cannot carry on the work without prejudice, and requested a salary for them. We have received depositions from the old committee against James Webster, of Thirnby, in which we desire your orders, also touching the returns and certificates. We have never received the instructions you name from the late committee, for re-sequestering such as refuse to pay in their fines.
By the Act of 25 Jan., is power given to us to let estates for 7 years or any term under? [2 pages.]
May 4.
Ipswich.
12. County Committee for Suffolk to the Committee for Compounding. We had sent the returns about sequestrations before the receipt of your letter, according to the directions of the former committee for compounding, to Mr. Heveningham and John Gurdon, both M.Ps., and from whom we suppose you will receive them. [½ page.]
May 4. Petition of Alderman Hemsworth, Lady Young, and 12 others to the County Commissioners for York, Yorkshire, and Hull. In 1648 they had goods value 163l. 5s. 6d. taken from them for the use of the last siege against Pomfret Castle, by command of Cols. Chas. Fairfax, Roades, and John Mauleverer, and were promised satisfaction, but never received it. Beg order for their relief as promised by the late commissioners. With note recommending them to the Committee for Compounding, the County Commissioners having no power to relieve them. [G 93, p. 27.]
May 6. Committee for Compounding to the Committee for co. Monmouth. In reply to yours of 29 April, you are to improve to the utmost the Earl of Worcester and Sir Ralph Hopton's estates, allowing no fifths.
The assignations made by the county committees are void. Also estates granted by the late Trustees for Ireland since 25 Oct. 1649. Also estates let by the County Commissioners for more than a year. Enquire whether the late Sir A. Hopton had any estate in your county; and if so, seize and sequester it. [G 8, pp. 21, 24.]
May 6.
Norwich.
13. Thomas Garratt to Saml. Moyer, Lime Street, London. Notes of cases. Being your agent for Norfolk, I thought it fit to inform you and the rest of the commissioners thus much, as most of the county committee live some distance from this place, but when they meet they will give you an account of this and the rest of the business. I understand that power is given to the commissioners to examine upon oath, and to administer the Oath of Abjuration, and I believe I shall be able in a short time to bring the State near 1,000l. a year more than has as yet been discovered. [1 page.]
May 6.
Leicester.
14. The late County Committee for Leicester to the Committee for Compounding. We received your letter of 26 April, with the order and Act about the returns. We are but a few of the late committee here resident, yet we directed our solicitor and treasurer to make and return the duplicates of what the Act required from us, which were delivered, one part to the commissioners here, and the other part we transmitted to Goldsmiths' Hall, and all long since. [1 page.]
May 7. Order of the Committee for Compounding, on Rich's motion in behalf of Rich. Higgins, that his landlord being a Papist, he may be heard what he can offer against him;— for a hearing this day week.
Like order, adding Thos. Robinson, of Northwich, co. Chester, to the county committee, to act according to the instructions of the Acts of 25 Jan. and 25 April 1650. With note of a like order for Thos. Bourchier, of Ackworth, co. York, to act for that county. [G 8, p. 27; 70, p. 192.]
Order that this committee proceed to choose and examiner.
That this committee will not make compositions with purchasers of recusants' estates without the resolution of the House.
That Wm. Pitchford, Hum. Gold, Wm. Williamson, Wm. Kendall, John Gace, and George Willingham, the late sequestration committee for London, appear on Thursday to show cause why they have not given in the certificate required.
That the business of Devonshire be debated on Thursday.
Order for a letter to the Yorkshire Committee, to hasten their returns on the Act of 25 Jan. 1650. [G 8, pp. 27–29.]
Order that Peter Brereton, of Gray's Inn, be joined with Reading as counsel in managing the business of sequestrations and advance of money. [G 8, p. 33; 83, p. 262.]
May 7. Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners for co. Lincoln. You speak of 77 acres of small underwood of the Duke of Buckingham's fit for felling. Take care that it be felled and sold without prejudice, and certify what it sells for. [G 8, p. 29; 71, p. 690.]
[May 7.] Eight interrogatories by Col. John Pyne for cross-examination of witnesses formerly produced by Capt. Benj. Mason before the Committee for Compounding. [G 102, p. 393.]
May 7. "True account" by Capt. Ben. Mason of all his proceedings in personal and political matters from 1636 to 1650, showing his services to Parliament, his marriage with a daughter of Geo. Doddington of Nether Stowey, answer to accusations against him in his transactions as county sequestrator, &c. [G 102, pp. 81–86.
May 7. Col. Alex. Popham to the Committee for Compounding. I was told that the committee whom I recommended for co. Somerset were honest and well-affected, but hearing after that some are delinquents, I subscribed the last paper. As you wish me to nominate 2 of the 5 for present employment, I approve Wm. Ceely and Lieut.-Col. Rich. Bovett. Also I wish George Sampson, jun., of Kingsbury, to be added to them. [G 102, p. 377.]
May 7. Certificate by Sir John Wollaston, that Rich. Styleman, appointed agent by the County Committee of London, has taken the oath for fulfilment of his trust. [G 142, p. 179.]
May 7.
Aylesbury.
15. County Committee for Bucks to the Committee for Compounding. Having several delinquents' estates to seize, we want an order to enable us to take up soldiers to our assistance. We are the more importunate as we hear our soldiers are about marching out of the country. Notwithstanding, we shall proceed to the seizing of some of the estates presently, although we expose ourselves to some danger. [¾ pages.]
May ? Petition of John Elliott to the Committee for Compounding, to recompense his long and faithful service, by admitting him as agent to the County Committee of Middlesex, whom he has long served as agent. Served the late committee to their special good liking, and was nominated joint agent by the present Committee for Sequestrations, but one Powell, a stranger to the business, sued for and obtained the place, and his order was vacated. [G 83, p. 687.] Annexing,
i. Certificate by the said county committee of his good conduct and long experience in the service as agent and messenger. 8 May 1650. [G 83, p. 689.]
May 8.
Preston.
16. County Committee for Lancaster to the Committee for Compounding. Notes of cases. [1 page.]
May 8.
Preston.
17. County Committee for Lancaster to the Committee for Compounding. We received your letters to us and the late county committee, requiring an account of the arrears and profits of sequestrations, and desiring them to be paid into your treasury at Goldsmiths' Hall. In the beginning of the war, this county was looked upon by Parliament as one of the most dangerous, in respect of the interest which some great men had in it that went with the King's party, and of the many Papists that abound in parts of it. Notwithstanding, through a special Divine assistance to some few who engaged against the common enemy, it not only first cleared itself, but became serviceable to neighbouring counties. But this contracted a great debt to the soldiers, for pay of whom, and support of our ministry, we made use, by approbation of Parliament, of the sequestrations of the county; and at the passing of the Act of 25 Jan. last for bringing all the sequestrations into one treasury at Goldsmiths' Hall, the case of this county was represented to Parliament, and upon their order the Committee for Compounding made an order, 30 Jan. 1650 [see p. 168 supra], for the revenue of sequestrations to be for the ministry and soldiers, until 24 June next. After that, we shall desire your favour in respect to this poor exhausted county, and be as ready as any others to observe what may be required. [1 page.]
May 8.
Norwich.
18. County Committee for Norfolk to Samuel Moyer and the other Commissioners for Compounding. Notes of cases. We have already paid considerable sums into the treasury at Goldsmiths' Hall, and will return a certificate thereof with all speed. We shall observe your instructions as to recovering arrears of rent, examining witnesses, and discovering recusants and defaulters; but our power is yet so much abridged that we cannot possibly do the service expected but with difficulties, which must be a prejudice to the State, and injure such as are apprehended to have arrears in their hands, and yet ought to be quit, by reason of disbursements for Parliamentary charges, or other just defalcations, which we have no power to allow. Peruse our remonstrance to the late committee, which they well resented, and then we doubt not you will enlarge our power to its former standard, afford a competent salary for our clerk, and allow of other necessaries. [1½ sheets.]
May 8.
Leicester.
19. County Committee for Leicester to the Committee for Compounding. We have received yours of 26 April and two Acts of Parliament, one constituting you a Committee for Compounding, and the other giving power to county committees to examine witnesses upon oath, also some additional instructions. We have given to the old county committee your letter, but they say they had already certified particulars in pursuance of the Act of 25 Jan.
We enclose a certificate of our taking the oath, and also our clerk and agent. We have only two persons that have not paid the remainder of their fines, and their personal estates are of very small value, but we will proceed in the execution of our trust. We have received an order from the Council of State to seize, inventory, and secure the real and personal estates of Lord Beaumont, Robt. Sherley, Sir Rich. Halford, George Faunt, Capt. [John] Roe, and George, Andrew, and Matthew Halford, and pray your directions therein. [1 page.]
May 8? 20. Queries by Edw. Chamberlayne, for the County Committee for Warwick, to the Committee for Compounding:—
What shall be paid, and by whom, to the discoverers of Papists' and delinquents' estates? [You shall shortly receive directions herein.]
Who shall pay the agents' assistants, and how much? [No allowance to any but upon particular business.]
May we secure any personal estates before examination? [Not without good proof of 2 witnesses.]
May we send for a witness against a delinquent out of another county? [You have power so to do.]
Shall we sequester the estates of any persons proved delinquents at Haberdashers' Hall? [Yes, on judgment given that they are delinquents.]
May we, on desire of some recusants, allow them ⅓ of their lands divided out ? [In all such cases set out ⅓ in specie.]
Shall we dispose of Col. [Thos.] Morgan's estate, which is by ordinance in [John] Pym's trustees, towards raising money?
Is a young man, now 22 years old, to be sequestered because when he was between 14 and 18, he was in the King's quarters', and sent for horses, arms, &c., to be used by others in the King's army? [Yes.] [1 page.]
May 8? 21. Edw. Chamberlayne, one of the County Committee for Warwick to [the Committee for Compounding]. An under-sheriff having levied money by virtue of an execution for a recusant, what will you direct in it? Our agent has given notice to the sheriff to keep the money till he receives order for payment thereof, and the recusant's friends press him to bring it into the court.' With note that the sheriff is to be requested to pay 2/3 of it to the commissioners. [⅓ page.]
May 8.
Coventry.
22. County Committee for Warwick to the Committee for Compounding. We delivered your letter to the most active of the late committee, who has promised a duplicate of their transactions with speed. We shall take the oath and get a certificate as soon as we can meet with the justices of the peace. We will re-sequester those who have not paid in their fines according to your and the late Committee for Compounding's orders. [1 page.]
May 9. 23. List of queries by John Halford, on behalf of the County Committee for Warwick, to the Committee for Compounding, viz.:—
Concerning the estate of Sir James Stonehouse, sequestered by order from Haberdashers' Hall, we crave directions.
As to Lady Smith, of Wootton, and others, the Irish Commissioners granted a lease for a certain sum, all paid, and the lease is not expired. Shall we endeavour to improve the estate by bringing them to a new composition, or forbear until the lease has expired? [To improve the estate to the best advantage.]
We certified the yearly value of the Earl of Northampton's estate. Has he compounded? [He has not compounded. Receive the rents.]
Are the augmentations granted to ministers here out of sequestered estates to be paid? [Pay none without special direction.]
Are the arrears of rent due by divers tenants to be paid to us, or to the treasurer at Goldsmiths' Hall? [Receive it there, and transmit it to us.]
We have not received any duplicates of accounts from the late County Committee for Sequestrations. [Renew the orders, and if they do not obey, send up the names of such as you wish us to send for.]
We desire your new orders and instructions, with power to examine upon oath, as also an additional agent, there being but one employed, and the work great. [1 page.]
May 9.
Preston.
24. County Committee for Lancaster to the Committee for Compounding. We sent your letters to the members of the late committee. We will take the oath as prescribed by the Act, and send a certificate of our having done so, but we beg to be excused till we hear further, because the first proviso in the Act is not agreeable to an order of Parliament of 25 Jan. last, nor to several orders of the late Committee for Compounding, authorising us to issue all sequestration money due before 24 June next for the pay of the ministry and soldiers, which in part has been done, and the full performance thereof cannot be prevented without danger of distraction.
You mention an order of the late committee for re-sequestering such as have neglected to pay their fine, but it never came to our hands. We shall do our utmost for the service, but having only a commission under the hands and seals of 7 of the late Committee for Compounding, we desire to be informed whether, they being now discharged, our commission is not determined. By our letter to them 3 April last, we informed them that we had reduced one-half of the officers formerly employed in sequestration, but our county being large, and the sequestrations great, we could not do anything without the assistance of officers named in a list then sent up: we have received no answer, and without them the business will be slighted, and the service prejudiced. We enclose a copy of the list and desire your order for their acting.
There are many commanders and officers who have laid down money for furnishing their soldiers with arms and ammunition, and some poor workmen who have large sums due for making and dressing arms, and who will be undone unless paid. As we cannot issue money for them, we desire some course that they may be satisfied.
Are the annuities and rent-charges upon sequestered estates, and 1/5 allowed to the wives and children of delinquents, and the repair of sequestered houses, according to the first ordinance for sequestration, to be continued? There are other things daily occurring, wherein for want of authority, we cannot relieve the persons complaining. [1½ pages.] Enclosing,
24. i. List of 12 persons thought necessary to be employed by them, 8 as agents in the several hundreds, and a clerk, receiver, auditor, and door-keeper. [½ page.]
24. ii. List of queries proposed to the Committee for Compounding:—
1. What course is to be taken with those who prosecute judgments or executions upon sequestered estates without your order? May they receive the benefit thereof?
2. If the estates of any tenants be determined, the owners being under sequestration, and the estates to be disposed of, are the estates to be let at a yearly rent or the tenant continued under the ancient rent?
3. If waste be committed by the farmers of any sequestered estate, or any other person, how are they to be proceeded against?
4. If farmers be disturbed in their possession, how are they to be relieved. and the offenders punished?
5. If any informations be exhibited to us against any for delinquency, how are we to proceed? May we take the informer's oath, and the examination of the party, and how far may we go in securing or sequestering such estates? [¾ page.]
May 9. 25. County Committee for Suffolk to the Committee for Compounding. Particulars of cases, all calendared under their respective names. [1 page.]
May 9. Order of the Committee for Compounding that this committee will consider on Monday how to-proceed in allowance of annuities.
Order on motion in behalf of the Lord-General, about the disposal of York House tenements, granted to him by Parliament, that his counsel represent what is desired in writing, and it shall be considered.
Note that Edw. Carey, of the Middle Temple, was chosen examiner in cases before this committee, as a committee for Compounding and Advance of Money, and that he was sworn in court. [G 8, pp. 30, 32; 10, p. 21.]
May 9. [John Leech] registrar, to the high sheriffs of counties. I send you, as ordered by the Committee for Compounding, the enclosed vote of Parliament, which you are to take especial care to publish, and to certify the publication. [G 8, p. 33.] Enclosing,
26. Order in Parliament that all delinquents who, having compounded for delinquency and non-payment of their second moiety, have incurred the penalty formerly imposed, and shall pay in their second moiety with interest by lst June, shall be discharged from such penalty; but in default of payment, the moiety of their estate shall be confiscated, and the Committee for Compounding are to take care this is put in execution. [Printed, 1 page.]
May 10. Order of the Committee for Compounding that Wm. Ceely of Bridgewater, Rich. Bovett of Taunton, and Major George Sampson of Kingsbury, be added to the Commissioners for co. Somerset, on the Act of 25 Jan. 1650.
That letters from this committee to the county commissioners be directed to one of them till further order.
That Capt. Mason forbear to act till further order.
That the commissioners examine the charge against him, and if they find it delinquency, seize and secure his estate, and send up the charge.
Order that Wm. Pitchford and 5 others, late sequestration commissioners for London, appear on Monday the 13th, and show cause why they have not delivered in a duplicate of their sequestration proceedings; the present commissioners to appear also.
That John Williams, of Bromyard, co. Hereford, be agent and sequestrator to the county committee. [G 8, pp. 34, 36; 10, p. 23.]
May 10.
Chichester.
27. County Committee for Sussex to the Committee for Compounding. We delivered your letter to the old committee, with the Act for receiving arrears, which we shall pursue; we have seized the estates mentioned in a list given to us, and will receive the rents. We wish Stephen Humphrey to be authorised to keep all courts belonging to any delinquent or Papist in the Western Division of Sussex, with an allowance for his pains, and a clerk. [1 page.]
May 10.
Chichester.
28. County Committee for Sussex to the Committee for Compounding. There is a house and 7 acres of pasture land, called the Grey Friars, in Chichester, belonging to Chris. Lewknor, a delinquent, by lease from the corporation, rent, 6l. 13s. 4d., and formerly let by the old committee of Chichester to Benj. Occeott of Chichester for 3 years ending last Ladyday, at 20l., viz., 6l. 13s. 4d. to be paid to the corporation, and 13l. 6s. 8d. to be laid out by him towards repair of the premises, most part of the house having been pulled down by soldiers. We find the premises still very ruinous, but Occeott will take it for 7 years at the former rent, to be laid out as before, or at 16l. 13s. 4d., with allowance for payments, which is as much or more than any other will give. [1 page.]
[May 10.] 29. Queries by the County Committee, for Sussex, to the Committee for Compounding.
1. As to paying quit rents out of delinquents' and Papists' estates.
2. Allowance of 1/5 to wives and children of delinquents.
3. Allowance to tenants for repairs of houses and barns, &c., which otherwise would fall down.
4. As to obeying orders from the Barons of the Exchequer, who require from them certificates of delinquency, and order them to forbear receiving rents until further order from themselves.
5. Order required for receiving Lord Montague's rents, due last Ladyday, being threatened to be fetched up to the Indemnity Committee, they being paid on a former ordinance to the Palsgrave [Elector Palatine.]
6. An order for letting delinquents' lands for 7 years or under. [1 page.]
May 10.
Leicester.
30. County Committee for Leicester to the Committee for Compounding. At the request of divers godly ministers who have augmentations out of sequestered impropriations, we pray directions about paying them, as we can do nothing without your special orders. The bearers, Thos. Lowry and Mr. Weld, who are well-affected gentlemen, are much in arrear out of the impropriate rectory of Whitwick. Mr. Lowry's case is very considerable, by reason of the smallness of his stipend; unless he receives from us the maintenance formerly allowed by the Committee of Plundered Ministers, and confirmed by the late Committee for Compounding, he will be a great sufferer. [¾ page.]
May 10.
Sarum.
31. County Committee for Wilts to the Committee for Compounding. We received your instructions and orders, and sent our agent to sequester the persons therein mentioned. He sequestered Mr. Davy, but Bennet has only a reversion, which we know not how to seize. We have sent up our clerk to you with a certificate, and the best account that the shortness of the time and the unskilfulness of our agent will give us leave; had he been vigilant, and had we received our commission sooner, we should have returned you a more satisfactory account. With note, 16 May, for a letter to the old county commissioners to reinforce [orders], or this county committee will be enforced to levy the penalty. [¾ page.]
May 10.
Knutsford.
32. Hen. Cockson, County Commissioner for Cheshire, to the Committee for Compounding. The parties whose estates are to be seized and sequestered for non-payment of fines are Jonathan Wodenoth, Thos. Starkey of Stretton, Thos. Poole of Poole, Sir Fras. Gamul of Chester, and 4 others The estates of Woodnoth, Starkey, and Poole stand sequestered by orders of the late committee, which we shall further prosecute. The estates of the others are also under sequestration by the late committee, but the profits arise out of the lands they hold of Sir Fras. Gamul within the City of Chester. The estates of delinquents in the city are very few, but we are uncertain as to our power. Our commission for the county palatine of Chester extends to the city, which is a county of itself, although within the liberty of the county palatine; we desire to know whether we are to act in the city as well as in the county; we believe that none in the city (though there are many honest) will undertake that employment upon the Parliament salary; however we shall prosecute your directions in whichever way shall seem good.
As to the other list, commanding us to seize and sequester the estates of divers persons named for not paying in the remainder of their fines, some of them likewise have their estates within the city, viz., Daniel Bavand and Sir Robt. Brerewood, concerning whom also we desire further direction. Sir Hugh Calverley of Lea, has died since his composition was made; this estate lies under extents and judgments for debts, save what his lady had in jointure, 800l. a year. There are extents issued out of the Exchequer against the lands of the Earl of Derby in this county, and of Thos. Starkey of Stretton, whereby the sheriff is ready to seize upon the lands for issues which may continue for ever, and the original debt or fine never be discharged, unless you take special care; the under-sheriffs of Cheshire could inform you herein. We are much obstructed in letting these two estates by these extents; men are unwilling to take the lands, the sheriff being ready to drive the lands so soon as taken, and we not able to secure them.
As the execution of this place cannot be readily performed without assistants, I desire that such as are allowed to the commissioners in other counties may be allowed to us. Letters to us to be directed to Richard Legh, or George Wilson, Knutsford, Cheshire. [2 pages.]
May 11. 33. County Committee for York to the Committee for Compounding. We have received 2 letters from the late Committee for Compounding, to sequester persons mentioned in a list who had not paid the last ½ or the whole of their fines according to composition, and we sent out our agents to secure their estates, and to give their tenants notice to pay in their rents here, which in part is already done; but the county being exceeding large, all are not yet gone through. Upon notice to Sir Thomas Gower's tenants, he sent us his discharge, dated a year ago.
We have informations of delinquency against divers persons of considerable estates, but have no power to swear witnesses, nor to protect their tenants, creditors, or others from suits meantime.
We acquainted the late committee of the great abuse committed by the late reduced officers of the militia, under pretence of an ordinance of Parliament for 13,000l. They wrongfully and cruelly drive the tenants to Papists' estates for those arrears, in opposition to the Act of 25 Jan. last, and several orders from us, and contrary to the order of the late Militia Act. Major Capperthwaite and Capt. Robt. Anderson are now driving in several places, and will not observe the Act or orders, neither have we power to command any of the soldiery. We find by last year's account, that most of the Papists' sequestered estates have been eaten up by such levies, and unless there be a speedy prevention thereof, those soldiers, and others who will follow their example, will swallow up all the growing rents. [12/3 pages.]
May 11.
Redcastle, co. Montgomery.
34. Hugh and Lewis Price, Commissioners for North Wales, to the Committee for Compounding. We are acting upon our instructions, as to sequestering Papists and delinquents, but do not find any power to appoint an agent or registrar, for want of whom the business is much retarded. Edw. Vaughan is fit for an agent, and Rich. Hamer for registrar; if you will appoint them and allow them a salary, we hope soon to give a good account of our proceedings. [¾ page.]
May 11. 35. County Committee for Dorset to the Committee for Compounding. Sam. Bull, who was appointed one of the commissioners for this county, having been called to other service for the State, and left his employment, we recommend Chris. Weare in his stead. [¾ page. Appointed 13 May. G 8, p. 37.]
May 13. Order of the Committee for Compounding—on the reading of a letter from Mr. Martin, clerk to the late Sequestration Committee for London—that the said committee be summoned for Thursday, and required to bring in their books and duplicates, and especially a rental of the arrears due to the State; otherwise, this committee will proceed to put the Act in execution.
That on Tuesdays and Thursdays, this committee will proceed only on fines, reports, and sequestration business.
That a letter be written to the Commissioners for co. Hereford to show cause why the duplicates written for are not returned.
Note of a return from Chester. [G 8, p. 37.]
May 13. Committee for Compounding to the Committee for co. Devon. We hope that— the scruples named in yours of 17 April as to whether your commission was not ended by the transfer of the management of those affairs to us being removed—you will resume your duties. You object that the instructions are not full enough, and that the work is too elaborate for only one agent; that you have no power to examine on oath, set, or let, but only to certify; that there is no care taken how estates are to be seized or how the expenses are to be discharged. In answer, we have added Mr. Dore in commission, and will allow you another agent, a liberty denied in other counties. Also you have power to summon and examine on oath, and if any are refractory, on return of their names, we shall take such course that others will be more compliant. As your county's condition differs from others, you may let for 3 years instead of one, and we shall soon enlarge the time to 7 years.
You are not required to do all personally, but to satisfy yourselves of the correctness of the valuations. You complain of delinquents turning out the tenants. You have power to dispossess the delinquent, and let the estates to such as you think fit. We hope you will not decline the service in the present exigency. [G 8, p. 41; 30, p. 2.]
May 13. 36. Earl of Rutland to the County Committee for Middlesex. By virtue of an Act made for ordering delinquents' estates, and by directions thereupon given you by the Committee for Compounding, you are entrusted to contract for estates lying in the liberty of Westminster, with such as will give the best rent, for any term not exceeding 7 years. Being tenant in possession of Wallingford House, I am desirous to be continued tenant to the State, having furnished and settled myself therein, and it will be a great damage to me to remove. It has always been judged a great injury to put out a tenant against whom there can be no jnst exception, and who will give as much as any other, and I will give more. Therefore I desire you to grant me a lease, and I will give the State 130l. a year, over and above all taxes and reparations, and will pay the arrears that were due last Ladyday. If it be objected that Lord Edw. Howard has a lease from a former committee, I hope that that will not prevent me, in regard of several ordinances and orders of 8 Dec. 1646, as also a subsequent Act of Parliament of 25 Jan. 1650. If any shall offer more than I do, I desire to be heard again; had it not been for my offer, it would have gone for 40l. per annum. [Copy, 1 page.]
May 13. 37. Order by the County Committee for Middlesex upon the preceding letter,—the Earl alleging that whatever leases Lord Howard might pretend to were void, it being contrary to the sense of Parliament that any committee should let to any of themselves any of the sequestered estates, as appears by their vote of 8 December 1646, and especially at an under rent, and contrary to the sense of the Act of Parliament of 25 Jan. 1650; and because he has not made any contract with the commissioners according to the Act,—that the Earl of Rutland, paying the arrears of rent due to the State since the death of the Duchess of Buckingham, due at Ladyday last, and giving security to pay 130l. a year over and above all taxes and reparations, have a lease of Wallingford House for 7 years, always excepting the little closet or passage that lies over the gate leading into St. James's Park, being a passage formerly into Wallingford House. [Copy, 1 page.]
May 13. 38. Statement of the case of three of the County Committee for Exeter and Devon, by Rich, Carter, their agent, showing how the late commission sent has been accepted by the new commissioners. Mr. Marshall desires to be excused, alleging much weakness, and not being able to act in such toilsome business.
Capt. [Jos.] Hunkyn seems desirous to forward the affairs of the State, and was willing to act had they had according to the Act a duplicate from the late committee, for the taking of the rents, the greater part whereof lie in malignants' hands, yet desired to be excused from acting further, having spent many years in the State's service, to the injury of his health and estate. He further alleged that the instructions would not suit their county, they having no power to let, and the custom of the county being to let by survey, where the best bidder shall have the price, and that being once denied them, they will not again proffer the same terms; consequently the thing to be let or sold may lie in hand.
Mr. Pearse was very willing to forward the work, and often spoke to members of the late committee both for the city and county to deliver in a duplicate according to the Act, but could not get it. Thereupon I went to Mr. Upton and others of the late committee, who gave me a letter to [Nich.] Row, their secretary and solicitor, to draw up the accounts of their books, but he alleged it did not concern him but the whole committee. Thereupon I pressed for the same, and at the sessions, finding the committee together, I went to them with the Act, and desired them to consider what was required from them therein. They asked me if any committee sat; I replied they could not do so, as they (the late committee) had not performed what was required by the Act, to which they answered they could not do it under half a year; thereupon I pressed them to breviate out a rental, so that order might issue from the commissioners to collect the rents; but it is so defective, no tenants named, nor any time when to commence, that the commissioners can do nothing therein.
This rental is but for two divisions, the other lying in the hands of [Rob.] Spry, who was made solicitor and treasurer for those divisions by the late commissioners at Goldsmiths' Hall. Mr. Row informed me that Spry has often been summoned by that committee to bring in his accounts, but always declined; and Row believes he has great sums of money in hand; but his habitation is not known.
I gave the letters from the committee to Mr. Beare, who promised to deliver them and get the committee to sit, and desired me to go to [Charles] Vaughan, the treasurer, whose answer is annexed. The late committee for the City of Exeter deny in general to yield obedience to the Act, except Alderman Saunders, treasurer, who desires time to deliver an account of what has passed through his hands. I therefore conceive if a day is not fixed for their sitting, and power given to call all agents before them, and compel them to bring in their accounts, the business will be delayed, and the State much prejudiced, as it already has been by the malignants turning their tenants out of possession, viz.:—Wm. Cooke of Ottery, a delinquent, whose estate is let for 140l. a year, has thrown the State's tenant out of doors, and seized on all his goods. Request that the Committee for Compounding will grant an order authorising the county committee to call before them all the late agents for sequestrations in the county, to attend them at their several sittings, give an account of all rents due to the State in their several divisions, and assist in the collecting thereof, until the new collectors have knowledge of the tenants and their rents; and that such agents may have some allowance for such days as they ride. [1 sheet.] Annexing,
38. i. Charles Vaughan to [Rich. Curter]. I desire a copy of the letters, and of the Act and orders, that I may the better know what I am to do. Tell the gentlemen that I put in my account to the Committee of Accounts 2 or 3 years since, wherein all is expressed that I have received and paid. Concerning what is now required of me, and that I am to go to London on Monday next about public business for the Commonwealth, I never heard anything of this business until to-day, and have been so weak (although I have had much business in Exeter which greatly concerned me) that I could not travel, and have not been ten miles from home in seven months. Ottery, 2 May 1650. [¼ page.]
May 13.
Norwich.
39. Thomas Garrett to Mr. Leech, secretary to the Committee for Compounding. I can discover some estates here that have never been sequestered, as that of Mrs. Ramsey, a recusant, worth 300l. or 400l. a year, besides stock; she has been kept from sequestration by some great man. May I inventory her personal estate, and take security for it, until she either clears herself, or is convicted? As there are others of the same nature, I must take a man or two to assist me, and pay them, and as my salary will hardly bear my expenses, I hope you will confer with the committee thereon. I also desire advice as to Sir Henry Bedingfield's estate, as I had a warrant to seize it, but the tenants are unwilling to bring in their rents, as they are forbidden by Sir Henry to do so. I have summoned them upon the Act of 25 Jan. 1650 for all arrears. [1 page.]
May 13. 40. Late County Committee for London to the Committee for Compounding. We received your order of the 10th inst., requiring us to show cause why we have not returned a duplicate of our proceedings touching sequestrations, but that was done by us in our letter of the 2nd inst. We have nothing to add save that if we may have an order for getting in some debts, so as to enable us to pay for the dispatch of what is required, we having no money, we shall willingly perform your commands. This we conceive would be the answer of the rest of the gentlemen mentioned in your order, some of whom being out of town, and others sick, we can give no further account. [¾ page.]
May 13.
Newcastle.
41. Henry Horsley, one of the County Committee for Northumberland, to the Committee for Compounding. You require an account of our proceedings, but as the rest of the commissioners are in several parts of the county, taking the engagement, and other public services as justices, we cannot meet at present, but will do so, and give you the account with speed. Are we to allow ⅓ and 1/5 to [recusants and] delinquents, and to grant allowances for repairs? [1 page.]
May 13. 42. Queries by the County Committee for Warwick to the Committee for Compounding, viz.:—
1. How are Mr. Sheldon and others to come by their bonds from the Committee for raising 50,000l. for Ireland? [An order is to be sent to the trustees' registrar to return all such bonds.]
2. Some leases made by the same committee do not determine until Michaelmas twelvemonth; are they to hold or are we to improve the rent ? [If any are let in trust for the delinquent, they are to be improved.]
3. Some estates we have let for a year; what leases will you or shall we make, and on what security? We except all spring woods, profits of courts, fines, and estates that fall within the year, and the lessee to pay all taxes, quarterings, and payments; who shall keep courts? [Mr Chamberlayne appointed steward.]
4. Shall we examine and allow, if there be cause, any deeds of mortgage, annuities, judgments, statutes, &c., or refer them to you? [You are to certify the case, and the proofs are to be produced before us.]
5. Col. [John] Fox has an Act for [Rob.] Middlemore's estate, and [John] Pym's trustees have one for Col. Morgan's estate; shall they hold, or will you question them? Middlemore has paid the greatest part of his rent to us, and we have agreed with him for a year longer, and now soldiers demand the rent or possession of his estate. [They are to proceed to let the lands.]
6. Has the Earl of Northampton compounded, or shall we demand the rents, and distrain if they are not paid? His lease ends next Michaelmas. [To receive the rents and improve.]
7. We have not yet received any duplicate from the late committee.
8. Shall we examine witnesses against any supposed delinquents, who have been cleared by order of the Committee for Sequestrations?
9. Ministers who have subscribed the engagement bring us orders to pay them money out of estates sequestered from Papists; shall we pay them if 2/3 of the tithes, and the glebe will not pay them the amount ordered by the Committee for Plundered Ministers? [To suspend till further direction.]
10. If long after sequestration, a delinquent marries, shall his wife and children have 1/5 allowed? [No.]
11. If long after sequestration, the estate is extended by the sheriff, without any order from the late Committee for Compounding or the Barons, what shall we do? [It is not valid.]
All sheriffs should be summoned to attend you on a certain day at the end of the term, and be forbidden to extend sequestered estates without your allowance. The lessee of Mr. Fortescue's estates says he has paid sheriffs, on outlawries and judgments, more than the rent comes to. [Summons to be sent to the sheriffs, and the committee will debate this with them. Mr. Berners and Squibb to go to the Lord Chief Baron.]
12. Shall our agent have 4s. a day from the date of his commission paid by our treasurer?
[Those queries not answered in the margin are answered by our instructions.] [2 pages.]
13 May.
Stowey.
Capt. Benj. Mason to John Ashe. Public employment and private business have prevented my waiting on you. I was at Taunton May 11, to praise the Lord for His mercies to that place. I sat next Col. [John] Pyne, with Mr. Saunders and Roger Hill. He gave out a month ago that if I would cease acting, he would show me some money, but I told Col. [Edw.] Ceely I should go on in this service till ordered to forbear. Pyne says he has prevailed in London that we shall be put out, and Recorder [Wm.] Ceely of Bridgewater, and [Rich.] Bovett of Taunton put in. I am afraid there is a sufficient charge against Ceely, which I will follow if you direct it. I can prove that the county committee brought their money to Pyne, and the Colliers give lame accounts, and say they disposed of it by orders, but not by what orders. I can prove that Ceely, [Hen.] Minterne, [Chr.] Pittard, and 2 others gave themselves 100l. and more each above their salaries; therefore they may well keep their books close. This I can prove at London. [G 118, p. 892.]
May 13. Orders for the following letters to the late and present Commissioners of co. Somerset. [G. 8, p 37.]
May 14. Committee for Compounding to [Capt.] Latimer Sampson and Thos. Shute. Before yours of 2 May, we heard that [John] Buckland and [Rich.] Jones did not act as commissioners, and had an accusation of delinquency against Capt. Mason, so by recommendation of several M.Ps we added three others to the committee, suspended Capt. Mason till he should acquit himself, and bade you examine witnesses; but if he prefer to be examined before us, we will give him a fair hearing, on your sending up the proofs. Pray send up your moneys and hasten the arrears. We hope the newly-appointed commissioners will advance the service, if you keep up fair correspondence with them. The extents on Sir Ralph Hopton's estate are fraudulent, and must be improved to the State's advantage. [G 8, p. 38.]
May 14. Committee for Compounding to Wm. Ceely, Rich. Bovett, and George Sampson. We are satisfied with Capt. Sampson and Mr. Shute, and have ordered them to proceed, and hope you will keep up correspondence with them, and not allow your difference to be a public prejudice. Capt. Mason's case we shall judge according to its merits. We can neither excuse nor shall we bear the neglect of the old commissioners. [G. 8, p. 39.]
May 14. Committee for Compounding to Col. John Pyne and the rest of the late Sequestration Commissioners for Bristol and co. Somerset. The present committee complain much of your backwardness to make the returns required by the Act of 12 May, and indeed of manifest opposition. It is true that there is jealousy of one of the parties, but this is no excuse for delaying the accounts and duplicates, which causes trouble, and we wonder that men professing affection to the State should retard a matter of such concern. [G 8, p. 39.]
May 14. Summons to Thos. Blackborne, late sequestration treasurer for co. Somerset, to appear before the committee in 21 days, to answer for moneys received. [G 8, p. 40.]
May 14. John Ashe to Saml. Moyer, one of the Committee for Compounding, Lime street. I understand from Mr. Curle that you have cashiered one of the Somerset sub-commissioners, accused for a delinquent. I wrote you how he came recommended to us, and am confident the charge can never be made good against him. He has lost his blood, and endangered his life for Parliament.
But a malicious man may charge me or you with a crime, therefore to be cashiered and disgraced, unheard, unproved, will be thought hard measure. Let justice be done, and then defy the devil and all his agents. But what can we expect when there is a failure amongst you in the place and ordinary course of justice? I affirm solemnly, in presence of God, I know no other crime in these men than the perfect service of Parliament; for I knew well that sequestration matters had been most unduly managed by the committee, and that these men were the most likely to do the best service, because four of them had never any dealings in sequestrations, and the fifth, Mr. Shute, knew all the committee's by-paths and extravagancies. I hear you have discharged three of them, and nominated three others, because Mr. Pyne, by the hand of Col. Pride, would have it so. Onlookers will see what will be the end. Besides the dishonour cast upon us that commended them, your reputation may suffer, by admitting the mere creatures of the old committee; if you had consulted [Roger] Hill and [Rich.] Long, the county members, they would have told you so.
Think upon it seriously; it may be your own case another day. Capt. Sampson underwent the same mischief. It was contrived by malicious adversaries that one Clarke should have his command in Bristol; upon this a charge was presented against him at the council of war, and he was outed before being heard. The captain, knowing his innocency, would not sit tamely under the abuse, and at length, after the expense of 150l., was by the council of war acquitted. But the honest man spent his money, lost his place, suffered disgrace, and so was undone. Let me entreat you, as you tender your own reputation and peace of conscience, beware of doing such high injustice, to the utter undoing of honest faithful men, because Col. Pride or Col. Pyne will have it so, men that are subject to passion and misinformation. The cries of the injured and oppressed sound loud. Pardon my passion. My true and hearty affection to you and the Commonwealth will be much wronged in this change. [G 118, p. 889.]
May 14. Note in the Committee for Compounding that the commissioners for co. Herts gave up their commission. [G 8, p. 46.]
May 14.
Aylesbury.
43. County Committee for Bucks to the Committee for Compounding. Last week we desired orders to take soldiers to our assistance to seize and sequester estates not seized; as the soldiers wholly refuse to assist us, unless we have something from you, we desire you will despatch something down by the bearer, our clerk, to the chief officer, commanding some soldiers to our assistance before they leave the country. [¾ page.]
May 14.
Carmarthen.
44. Jenkin Franklin and John Hughes, senior, two of the County Commissioners for South Wales, to the Committee for Compounding. We have received your commission for sequestration, prohibiting all committees from meddling therein, and authorizing us to proceed against all delinquents and Papists. We number but six, and our abodes are far distant. We two reside in this county. We have for our charge cos. Carmarthen, Pembroke, and Cardigan, which being so very wide, we cannot do without agents.
The late committee has given us the names of some in their books against whom proceedings are to be taken, which we are now beginning. We received your order of 18 April against Wm. Williams of Mothvey and three others. Three produced a discharge prohibiting all further proceedings against them, and conceived themselves free by the Act for Wales, and Williams showed us an acquittance for 51l. paid of his fine, but confessed there was as much more in arrear, and will pay if you conceive him not freed by the general Act. [1 page.]
May 15. 45. Order in Parliament that the order of 4th March, touching the 14,000l. for the charges of the treaty, be amended as follows, viz.:—That it be referred to the Revenue Committee to take account of the business touching the 14,000l. to defray the charges of the treaty at the Isle of Wight, and to see what is unpaid of the sum to be lent, and that the securities for payment thereof remain as they now stand; and the Committee at Goldsmiths' Hall are ordered to pay the same in course, as it now stands, upon a certificate thereof from the Revenue Committee; the remainder of the said sum to be paid over by order of the said committee to Mr. Falconbridge, for satisfaction of debts contracted by the committee for that service; Mr. Falconbridge to pay over the money to Mr. Say, steward to the said committee. [1 page; also G 1, p. 222.]
May 15.
Salop.
46. Col. H. Mackworth and Th. Nicolls, Commissioners for Sequestrations, co. Salop, to the Committee for Compounding. On receipt of your order that all Papists' and delinquents' rents should remain in the tenants' hands, and that no committee should issue out any warrant for disposing thereof, we ceased from interfering with such rents, and instructed our officers not to meddle. We formally entrusted John Brome, one of the solicitors for sequestrations, with the custody of the books and papers, and he is the only person capable of giving an account of the arrears of rent, and of the sequestered estates and their value; as he is now in London, he can give you every satisfaction. [½ page.]
May 15.
Truro.
47. County Committee for Cornwall to the Committee for Compounding. We shall be careful to act according to the orders given us in this great trust committed to our charge, but as we have not received the accounts and papers from the old committee, we crave pardon for not sending the certificate desired. We have as much in preparation as we may, and have let divers delinquents' estates for one year at good rents; had we orders for a longer term, according to the Act, it would much increase the yearly rent.
The solicitor to the old committee has promised us a list of all persons sequestered, but that committee having few or none of the compositions of delinquents, we can hardly know who has compounded. Besides, it will appear on review that very few have compounded at the true value of their estates; wherefore we shall endeavour to get all their compositions and particulars of their estates into our hands, and shall then be able to proceed as you shall command. We believe considerable sums will be raised thereby, and that from the most notorions and grand delinquents of our county. The most considerable men unsequestered are such as served as grand jury men in the late King's time, whose sequestrations are suspended by order from the Barons of Exchequer, and not yet resolved. We beg a speedy resolve therein.
Upon sequestering divers delinquents, we find they have made compositions with the old committees and paid their fines, the committees being necessitated at that time so to do for pay of the soldiers, there being 3 regiments of foot and three of horse at the siege of Pendennis. To this purpose the committee have written to the Speaker of Parliament, and it will reflect on them if we proceed against such as have so compounded ere Parliament's pleasure is known. Pray move Parliament that such as have fully compounded may be dismissed, and that the rest who have compounded under value may be further proceeded against, according to the Act and orders of Parliament. Sir John Arundel, and John Arundel of Trerise, having the most considerable estates of any delinquents within this county, have hitherto paid little or nothing, the former being a Papist delinquent, and the other continues a most implacable enemy to the Commonwealth. Particulars of cases.
Sir John Grills and John Prideaux, having both died since the letting of their estates, we desire your resolution what is to be done therein. [To be continued under the sequestration until further order.] We find that there may be considerable sums raised by wood sales on Sir John Greville and Sir Hen. Spiller's estates, and also on Nich. Borlase's manor of Cargole, being copyhold, divers tenements of the said manor being in hand, and many leases to be filled. These, with wood sales, will raise 3,000l.
There being so few justices of peace, we cannot now send the certificate of our having taken the oath, but will do so with all speed, and such obstructions as we meet with being removed by you, we shall force delinquents to compound, or make the best improvements of their estates that we possibly can. [To write the old committee to return duplicates of their proceedings, &c., to the commissioners, and to the committee in the county, according to former order, otherwise this committee must proceed to levy the penalty provided by the Act, and report their neglect.] The passages between brackets are marginal notes of reply. [2 pages.]
May 15.
Gloucester.
48. County Committee for Gloucester to the Committee for Compounding. There are some debts owing for fines from the purchasers of copyhold estates, sold by the late committee out of Tormarton Manor, sequestered from the Earl of Newcastle. The estates were made long since, but the committee and tenants, both fearing the title, agreed that this money should rest in the tenants' hands until an Act of Parliament might be had, or some other way found to perfect their estates, and they desire you will take care of them therein. [The money to be received and the estates confirmed.] We give you the names of the 20 tenants, with the amounts in their hands.
There are other debts owing for fines from other purchasers of copyhold estates in Tidenham and Woollaston Manors, now belonging to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, and these lands, since the conveyance of the said manor to him, being all claimed, and some of them taken away by him and his officers from the purchasers, the committee likewise agreed that the purchasers should, upon security given for the money to the committee, keep them in their hands until the validity of their estates might be better known, or they might be some way confirmed. [The committee to confer with the Lord Lieutenant about it.]
There has been an award made by Lord Chief Justice St. John, and [Ald. Thos.] Pury, Senior, M.P., on a reference between the Lord Lieutenant and this committee touching this, but there is some difference about its sense; it is part of this award that 300l. of the money be paid to the Lord Lieutenant to confirm the estates, which it is agreed he shall do. The committee ordered this 300l. to be paid him out of the fines, and 200l. more was assigned to pay a debt of 200l. to a poor woman who had lent it to the garrison of Gloucester in its greatest extremity, to pay the soldiers, it being almost all her estate, and for payment whereof the city stands engaged, and the committee had power by their ordinance of Parliament. Wherefore it is the earnest suit of this poor woman, of the tenants, and of us all on their behalf, that you will not frustrate these intentions (these moneys not being by intention of the late Acts of Parliament to be brought in to you), nor force the payment to you of sines for estates, the which they do not, nor are they sure they shall enjoy, and for payment of which also they are in bond to the late committee. If you require this 300l. to be paid to you, which they are to pay to the Lord Lieutenant for the confirmation of the estates, they have no hope left them to have the same confirmed. With names of 11 persons subject to such fines. [2 pages.]
May 15? 49. Proposals of the County Committee for Gloucester to the Committee for Compounding.
We desire your pleasure about the arrears due from Mr. Hall, which are respited, as also about those of Sir Rich. Ducy, Eliz. Somerset, the Earl of Worcester, Mr. Capel, and Mr. Bassett. [To receive Mr. Hall, Mr. Capel, and Mr. Bassett's arrears of rents, and the 300l. out of Sir Rich. Ducy's estate to be paid into the Treasury.]
Also concerning estates of the Earls of Newcastle and Worcester, formerly let by the county committee, and not confirmed or money paid. [The Earl of Worcester's estate to be improved, and the arrears of rent received and returned up. The copyhold estates are void.] Your pleasure concerning copyhold estates let by Mrs. Somerset and Mr. Wakeman, Papists, and what about the estates let by delinquents? [Those estates made since the recusancy or delinquency void.]
Whether we shall keep courts, and who shall be steward to keep them? Sheppard, Baker, and others, challenge the stewardship by virtue of an ordinance of Parliament.
That those bonds given by the tenants to the Committees for Ireland and co. Gloucester may be delivered up to us, so that thereby the tenants may satisfy the rents in arrear, which are considerable sums. [The county committee to deliver up all bonds, papers, and writings concerning sequestrations.]
Whether we shall let leases for 7 years, copyhold estates, fell woods, &c.?
What shall be done concerning money and goods discovered and seized to the use of the Commonwealth, and what rewards made to the discoverers?
Whether we shall enquire into those persons that have compounded under value, and those that have quit themselves by oath, though worth above 200l., and what course and authority we shall use to enquire into the same?
We desire our commission enlarged to the county of the city as well to the county. [The commissioners named for the county are to be commissioners for the city also.]
What officers will you allow to assist us, and what allowance are they to have for their pains? [2s. 6d. a day to the clerk, and 4s. to the agent. Such directions as are sent to these commissioners are to be sent to Giles Hancock, at Cirencester.] The passages between brackets are marginal notes for a reply. [1 page.] Enclosing,
49. i. Return by the same of 7 warrants and orders received by them from the Committee for Compounding, with marginal notes of what has been done in each particular. [¾ page.]
49. ii. Note by Mat. Hill, that he received 40s. from Sir Thos. Clutterbuch and John Cooke, tenants of Stretton Manor, towards discharging the seizures made thereon by Fras. Creswick, late sheriff, for rent due 18 Charles, of 20l. and 40s. [Scrap.]
May 16. 50. Petition of Col. Chris. Whichcott, governor of Windsor Castle, and Thos. Shilborne, colonel of a horse regiment in Ireland, to the Committee for Compounding, for enforcement of a Parliament order given of 13 Jan. 1649, viz., that the Commissioners of co. Bucks be authorized to fell decayed trees and pollards of the Duke of Buckingham's, value 3,000l.; 1,500l. to be paid to Col. Whichcott, governor of Windsor Castle, for so much charged on the sequestrations of Berks and Bucks, and the rest to go towards the pay of the forces in those counties.
Only 1,000l. worth has been felled already, and by Act of 15 April 1650, no charges on estates are allowed unless reported to Parliament, and for want of the remainder, the horse then in co. Bucks, and now in Ireland, and their families, are in great want, and petitioners cannot fulfil their engagements. [G 1, p. 228; 130, pp. 131, 133.]
May 16. Reference thereon to Mr. Reading, that a report may be made to Parliament. [The Parliament order was enforced 14 June 1650. G 1, p. 228; 8, p. 50; 10, p. 27.]
May 16. Order of the Committee for Compounding, that the old Commissioners for London who appeared return in 28 days a duplicate of the sequestrations in the city.
Mr. Starkey appearing to make good the Lord-General's claim to York House tenements, alias Buckingham House, Strand, late the inheritance of George, Duke of Buckingham, granted him by Act of Parliament, Mr. Reading is to state the title and report.
Note of a return from the Commissioners of co. Wilts; also of the appearance of the Commissioners of co. Gloucester.
Order on appearance of Thos. Blackborne, treasurer for co. Somerset, he requesting further time, that he bring in his account the first week of next term. [G 8, pp. 49, 50.]
May 16.
Lincoln.
51. County Committee for Lincoln to the Committee for Compounding. We have had a survey made of most of the sequestered estates, and sent summonses to the tenants to appear before us on three several days this week, to have a settlement for this year, thinking there would soon be a determination of our power by reason of the alteration in the Grand Committee. We opened several letters from the former commissioners and yourselves, the other commissioners being in London, but there has been delay in waiting for authority to execute the directions, both as to administering the oath of abjuration to suspected recusants, and to the better discovery of delinquents and their estates. Notes of a case. [1 page.]
May 16. Petition of Edw. Curle to the Committee for Compounding. Has faithfully served in the sequestrators' office, co. Somerset, and discovered many malignants, who have paid in large sums beside their compositions. Has also discovered several omitted particulars in delinquents' estates, and received allowance for some. Begs allowance for the remainder. [G 79, pp. 85.] Annexing,
i. Particulars of the estates of five delinquents omitted in their compositions. [G 79, p. 87.]
ii. Survey of the estates of Hen. Harvey, of Bridgewater, one of the said delinquents. [G 79, pp. 89–93.]
May 16. Committee for Compounding to the late Commissioners of co. Cambridge. Several letters were sent you by the late committee for compounding, to make duplicate returns to the present county commissioners and to us, of persons and estates who are or have been sequestered. The present commissioners complain of want of return thereof. We wonder that a business of so public concern should be so long retarded; let them be suddenly returned, or we must impose the penalty of the Act. With note of like letter to the Commissioners for co. Wilts. [G 8, p. 51.]
May 16. 52. Committee for Compounding to Mr. Sedgwick, late deputy-steward of sequestered estates, co. Cambridge. You are to deliver to [Thos.] French, the bearer, all deeds, court rolls, and writings in your hands, belonging to the estates of delinquents under sequestration. [G 8, p. 51.]
May 16. 53. Note of 3 sequestered estates in the county. [½ page.]
May 17. 54. Order in the Committee for Compounding, appointing French as steward to keep courts of sequestered estates in co. Cambridge. [Also G 8, p. 55.]
Like order, on appearance of Sir Wm. Boteler, bringing the account of estates now under sequestration in co. Bedford, that a letter be written to Capt. Smith to hasten the other returns and his accounts.
Note of [appearance of] Isaac Lloyd, of Lincoln's Inn.
Order on request of Lambert Godsrey, one of the late commissioners for Kent,—presenting the return of those now under sequestration, and desiring time for the other return—that 6 weeks be given.
Note of reading of a letter from the Prince Elector's Committee.
Order on reading of a letter from co. Westmoreland, that John Fallowfield be added as commissioner, to act with Mr. Crackenthorpe. Confirmed May 21. [See G 8, p. 67.]
Order to the Sequestration Commissioners of Middlesex and Herts, to gather in all rents and arrears on the estates in their counties leased by the late trustees for Ireland, and pay them into the Guildhall Treasury. [G 8, pp. 54, 55.]
May 17. 55. Parliament order, referring it to Sir Wm. Masham and 20 others, to consider the whole business of Potter's lists, and the abuses, and what should be done, and to report. The committee to sit daily in the Exchequer Chamber. [1 page.]
May 17.
Freshford.
John Ashe to his kinsman, Denis Bond, M.P. I see what the Committee for Compounding are doing against our proved friends, promoting those that will destroy the work of sequestration. I am surprised that they discharge commissioners without examination, and not knowing Mr. Pyne's design; and I condemn Hill and Long for allowing their friends to be disgraced. They have put out [John] Buckland and [Rich.] Jones for not acting. Pyne threatened to sequester them if they acted, and now accuses them of neglect for not acting. They have also put out Mason, on pretence of an old charge against him, never prosecuted; whereas Pyne offered to Mason to be friends with him if he would cease acting, but Mason refusing, Pyne resolved to prosecute him. He says the new Act was contrived by Mr. Ashe to destroy the County Committee of Somerset. He wishes to disgrace faithful men, that the foul proceedings of the county committee may never be discovered, and the moneys never brought in. He has got his mere vassals put in. Recorder Ceely is a shuffling, beggarly lawyer, and a known delinquent. Consult Moyer, Russell, Hill, and Long about it.
We hear of new commissions to raise soldiers for Ireland. The captains and conductors abuse the State and the country. As an instance, Capt. Weston, an unworthy fellow, quartered his'rogues on the country, devouring it, and brought 120 men at every muster, but when they came to be shipped, there were only 50. I wish such mischiefs could be prevented. [G 118, pp. 893, 894.]
May 17. Information by Joseph Collett, that Edw. Rogers, agent to the committee of sequestration in co. Gloucester, received 5l. as a bribe from John Hanbury of Gloucester, for forbearing to prosecute Edward Capel, a merchant in Bristol, for delinquency. That when Thos. Warkman of Laverton, in the same county, bid 300l. for the manors of Buckland, Laverton, and Kempsford, Mr. Cowles and others, by Rogers' procurement, had them for 150l. That Wm. Arkill of Slaughter paid him 20l. as a bribe for Thos. Phillips to be tenant of Pooden. That John Shingleton of Gloucester reported to Wm Arkill that he paid Rogers 15l. as a bribe. That he received 10l. from the inhabitants of Chapel Honeybourne for an estate of lands and tithes. That when the Committee for Compounding issued order for seizing and securing the real and personal estate of Sir Henry Fred. Thynn, Rogers gave him notice thereof, so that most of his goods and cattle were conveyed away. That Cowles confessed that he gave Rogers a bribe of nearly 10l. [G 114, p. 687.]
May 17. Order of the Committee for Compounding that Capt. Thos. Roberts, Wm. Arkill, and Mr. Cowles appear before them on the 21st, in the above case. [G 8, p. 56; 10, p. 28.]
May 17. Petition of Sir Ralph Maddison to the Committee for Compounding. He and others became sureties for Robt. Long, receiver of the forfeitures of Papists' estates in co. Bedford, &c., who, 10 May 15 Car., became bound in the Exchequer in 5,000l. for his due accounting, and paying in the arrears due on determination of his accounts; he was found in arrear 988l. 13s. 4d., and becoming a delinquent, had his estates sequestered, and the sureties have been sued in the Exchequer on their recognizances; pleads discharge on the ground that Robt. Long was seized of Galtres Forest, worth 500l. a year, and that these lands are sufficient to satisfy his debt, he being chargeable with the recognizance long before the sequestration or any cause thereof. Begs that the said arrear of 988l. 13s. 4d. may be allowed out of the sequestered estate, and petitioner's lands discharged. Was witness to the indenture when Long bought the forest, being 3,300 acres of green ground, within 5 miles of York, which cannot be worth less than a noble an acre. [G 106, p. 323.]
May 17. Note that this petition was read and rejected. [G 8, p. 54.]
May 17.
York.
56. County Committee for York to the Committee for Compounding. There are divers courts held in Holderness, in the East Riding, lately belonging to Lord Dunbar and now under sequestration, of which courts Baron Thorpe was formerly high steward. Since he gave them over, the courts have been kept by Wm. Wise, now recorder of Beverley, a gentleman well able to discharge the place; we recommend him to your consideration.
With note that Fras. Scales of Preston in Holderness was under steward to the baron, and query as to what profits the courts have afforded the last 4 years. [1⅓ pages.]
May 17.
Chepstow.
57.County Committee for Monmouth to the Committee for Compounding. We have seized and secured the estates of Sir Edw. Morgan of Pencoyd, and 4 others, but cannot find Rees Lloyd. The late commissioners state that having given in their accounts to the former committee, they thought that would have sufficed, but will make a more perfect return. We enclose a certificate that we have taken the oath. [¾ page.]
May 17.
Dorchester.
58. County Committee for Dorset to the Committee for Compounding. We received yours of 26 April, with an Act to empower you to compound with delinquents, and another empowering us to examine upon oath, and give acquittance for money received; also an order prohibiting the payment of any money save to the treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall, with some additional instructions concerning the payment of such sums as shall be discovered, the discovery of Popish recusants, and an order to administer the oath of abjuration to all persons suspected of recusancy.
Our agent, Edm. Keynell, delivered your letter to the former committee, who have prepared a list of the sequestrations as required, which will be speedily perfected and returned to you. We enclose the account of Wm. Raymond, whom we employed as sequestrator. [2/3 page.] Enclosing,
58. i. Return by Wm. Raymond of five persons who have not paid the remaining part of their fine; also of four others who have paid no part of it, with particulars of their estates. [1 page.]
May 17.
Durham.
59. Late County Committee for Durham to the Committee for Compounding. We received an Act of Parliament of 25 Jan. last, whereby we were prohibited to act any further about sequestrations, and were commanded to make and return duplicates of all sequestrations. In obedience thereto we have had divers meetings, and found it a work of much difficulty and impossibility, as divers delinquents were sequestered by Sir William Armyne and the commissioners of Parliament before we sat as a committee; and in 1644 and 1645 we divided, and some of us went through one part of the county, and the others through another part, and sequestered such as came to our knowledge. We also had two clerks to keep our books, viz., John Midleton of Darlington, for two wards, and Chris. Mickleton of Durham, for the other two; but by reason of the many distractions which this county lay under, having then many great armies, and by reason of our not sufficient acquaintance with the ordinances of sequestration, we could not proceed in such methodical course as would enable us now to give the account required. Besides Chris. Mickleton, having gone to London, has delivered up his books to your commissioners. Moreover John Brackenbury, who then acted much about sequestrations, and was made treasurer of part of the county by Sir Wm. Armyne, will not join us, although several times desired.
This notwithstanding, one of our clerks has drawn duplicates of the present sequestrations, as they were let in March 1648 for 1649, a copy of which is enclosed, and we have given your commissioners another, as also duplicates of such as have been discharged by us. Your present commissioners will be better able to inform you of the benefit made upon the present and former sequestrations, and of the arrears, they having power to take our accounts from our subsequestrators, treasurers, and other officers upon oath.
By the Act of 2 March 1649, the sequestrations of all delinquents, and the fines and compositions within those four northern counties were, in regard of their great sufferings, given to such counties respectively, from 28 Nov. 1648, for the disbanding of their respective forces, and for discharging other engagements. We have engaged to pay our clerks, treasurers, and other agents for their services, and therefore crave the benefit of the said Act, whereby we may be enabled to discharge the same. We will give a just account and return the overplus; if any moneys can be justly charged on any of us, we shall be ready to give satisfaction; seeing we have been and are still willing—to the great loss and damage of our estates, and the hazarding of our own and our wives and children's lives,—to serve the Parliament, we entreat that you will candidly accept our service, and grant us such a discharge that we may be no further called in question or troubled. [12/3 pages.]
May 18. 60. James Pearse to the Committee for Compounding. In my last I desired to be dismissed from being a commissioner, yet as no other has come down, and as several of this county have desired me to recommend their cenditions to you, I could no less than do it. The case of the inclosed petition I have formerly hinted to you; Mr. Carter, whom you sent hither as an agent, can inform you about the other paper, being articles against a delinquent who has not yet been sequestered. I do not know the man, but Capt. Wotton of Dartmouth, who brought the paper, pretends he can prove many things against him. I enclose a letter for Mr. Carter, not knowing his address. [1 page.]
May 18.
Derby.
61. Gervase Bennett and Rob. Mellor to the Committee for Compounding. In obedience to your commands, we have seized and secured 6 estates named, and we have also taken the oath prescribed by the Act, and enclose a certificate thereof as required. [½ page.] Enclosing,
61. i. Certificate by Thos. Sanders that Robert Mellor and Gervase Bennett have taken the oath for the faithful discharge of their trust as county commissioners for Derby. 10 May 1650. [¼ page.]
May 18. 62. County Committee for Middlesex and Westminster, to the Committee for Compounding. Notes on cases.
We cannot find any such person as Thos. Howdin of Clement Danes, nor any of his estate.
As to Wallingford House, the Earl of Rutland, tenant in possession, sent his gentleman with a letter to us to be tenant to the State for it, on which we made him an order for it.
We beg your directions on all the premises. [2 pages.]
May 18.
Chelmsford.
63. Committee for Sequestrations, co. Essex, to the Committee for Compounding. We cannot gather the rents of sequestered estates, not having received an answer to our late queries; we want authority to levy for rent in case of refusal, and aid in case of resistance; provision for both is made by Parliament, but we are barred from the benefit by the shortness of our instructions. Thus your Treasury has not, since our entrance upon this employment, been benefited by us; we have received some small sums, yet nothing proportionable to what is due for the last Ladyday rents; besides we cannot give any good account of our service, without some other assistants added to our agent. We will send a list of the arrears we discover, and desire a transcript of those returned to the Committee of Accounts, with authority to compel payment. We have stayed the rents of those who have not perfected their compositions with you. [1 page.]
May 18.
Haverford-
west.
64. Sampson Lort, sheriff of co. Pembroke, to the Committee for Compounding. I have caused the vote [in Parliament] of 7 May, touching delinquents who have not paid their second moiety, to be published in all the market towns of the county. [½ page.]
May 20. Order of the Committee for Compounding, on appearance of [Gabriel] Barber, commissioner of Norfolk, for an answer to certain queries, that the additional instructions be sent down.
Hen. King of Norwich appointed steward for co. Norfolk and Norwich, and recommended as treasurer.
Wm. Hanby of Ipswich, commissioner for Suffolk, who appeared for an answer to queries, appointed steward for Suffolk.
Note of appearance of John Baker, commissioner for co. Leicester.
Edw. Moseley appointed steward for co. Lancaster.
John Wilsby the same for co. Lincoln. [G 8, pp. 56, 57.]
May 20. Committee for Compounding to the county commissioners. Having received letters from you desiring satisfaction in some doubtful particulars, and further directions, conceiving the occasions would be alike in all places, we have digested the queries into these general instructions, which we send. [G 8, p. 57.]
May 20. 65, 66. Further instructions to sequestration commissioners. Repetition of those of February 5th. Adding,
1. You are to receive arrears of rents, in whose hands soever they may be, if unaccounted for, and return them to Goldsmiths' Hall, and certify refusals to pay.
2. To discover all Popish recusants, and administer the oath of abjuration to all suspects; and on their refusal, to seize and secure two thirds of their estates, certifying us of the same, and to appraise and sell them for the use of the Commonwealth.
3. Not to pay augmentations granted to ministers out of sequestered estates, till further order.
4. Cities distinct from the county are included in the commission for the county, unless a particular commission was formerly granted by the late committee for compounding.
5. To allow no extent, mortgage, or judgment, but to levy the profits notwithstanding.
6. To employ a clerk at 2s. 6d. a day.
7. To employ an agent, if one is not already appointed by the late or present Committee for Compounding, who will receive a commission to act, and to pay him 4s. a day.
8. To let sequestered estates for a clear rent, making very moderate allowances for taxes, quit rents, repairs, &c., and to certify the full value and the amount of allowances.
9. To call to your aid the trained bands, volunteers, or other forces within your district, or any other persons dwelling near, to compel obedience in cases of resistance. They are enjoined to assist you when required.
10. To demand from the late committee all informations against delinquents who have not compounded.
11. In case of suspension of sequestration by order of the Committee for Sequestrations or Barons of Exchequer, to seize and sequester all who have not been acquitted on appeal, or discharged on their composition, certifying the same.
12. On the depositions of two witnesses, you may, if you find sufficient proof of delinquency, seize and secure the delinquent's estate and certify the proofs to us. Should any refuse your summons to answer the charge, certify his name to us.
13. Certify us what profits may be made by grants of copyholds for lives in any manor.
14. To employ in urgent cases any persons you think fit, for seizure or sale, for whom we will endeavour to obtain allowance from Parliament.
15. If tenants of any sequestered estate refuse to pay their rents or arrears, levy the same by distress, and certify their names.
16. To proceed in all grants made or renewed by recusants or delinquents, since their recusancy or delinquency, as if they were void.
17. To see that delinquents enjoy no more of their estates than they have compounded for, their particulars being in the hands of the former county commissioners.
18. To certify us of those who willingly conceal the goods of any delinquents, and the proofs.
19. To notice that all grants of estates made by the late trustees for Ireland, since 25 Oct. 1649, and all grants made by any county committee for more than a year, and all made to or for any delinquent, are void.
20. To sequester estates acquired by marriage or otherwise, by delinquents who were not at the time of their delinquency seized of any considerable estate.
21. To certify to us the names, estates, and delinquencies of those delinquents who compounded with the former county committee without special order of Parliament. [4 pages, printed; also G 8, pp. 57–60.]
May 20. 67. County Committee for Suffolk to the Committee for Compounding. Since the receipt of the duplicate of your returns from the former county committee, we have travelled through the whole county. On our own view and best enquiry, we find the lands under sequestration generally let at as full a rent as can be obtained where they are let but from year to year. If we may let them for a longer time, they may be improved to greater rents, and more sufficient tenants procured. The time in most of the lands expires next Michaelmas, and we have no power to let them for a year more. Most of the estates are of recusants. We cannot say what copyhold estates are to be granted at any courts, or what the profits will be, until we receive your order for keeping courts. For gathering in of the arrears, we should have the same power as the former county committee, viz., to distrain for them, and all officers should be required to be helping to us. If we should only return the [names of ?] refusers to pay, as most of them have only their estates in stocks, they would make away with them. Ask directions in cases.
We intreat some reasonable allowance for our clerk, whose pains in this service well deserves it. [1 sheet.]
May 21. Order in the Committee for Compounding, revoking the former order for suspending the rents in the tenants' hands, the moneys to be paid into the Treasury.
Appointment of Stephen Humphrey as steward for the West Division of Sussex.
Note that Mr. Blackborne, treasurer to the Committee for co. Somerset, brought in his accounts, and had a month given to bring in a more perfect account.
Order of the said committee, that the vote of Parliament, of 23 May 1649, for drawing up all fines not yet passed either House, is a ground to this committee to give discharges to such persons as have compounded for any recusant's estate.
Mr. St. Nicholas named as counsel for the Commonwealth. [G 8, pp. 62, 63, 65.]
May 21. Committee for Compounding to the Sequestration Commissioners of co. Notts. In your several letters to us and the late committee, you ask allowance for charges in preserving the woods of Lord Byron and the Earl of Newcastle. We cannot grant it, but doubt not to obtain it; meanwhile take all care in their preservation, and certify us whether there be timber that can be felled without prejudice this season, its quantity, and value. The instructions will answer your other queries. [G 8, p. 65.]
May 21. 68. Note by Fras. Bland and Mich. Brett, County Commissioners for Notts, of their proceedings since 1 Feb. last.
£ s. d.
Moneys payable by the late county committee's papers last Ladyday 834 0 0
Discoveries of Papists' estates by us 1293 14 1
Estates demised by us, at rent of 5130 8 9
Note of proceedings in the case of 5 persons who have paid in part of their fines, and 13 who have paid ½ their fines.
The sum paid in to Goldsmiths' Hall is 1,822l. 16s. 9d.
List of 13 queries, many given before, on points connected with sequestration business. [2½ pages.]
May 21. 69. Queries and requests by the County Committee for Cumberland, to be propounded to the Committee for Compounding by Mr. Musgrave.
1. That the goods in possession of delinquents who have compounded may be sequestered, and the delinquents prove whether they had those goods since the sequestration of their personal estate, which will bring forth concealments to a great value.
2. How far extents and executions shall be allowed by us, which we are much troubled with by sheriffs and bailiffs. [No extents to be allowed.]
3. Whether Papists in arms shall be allowed any 5ths ? [Not by you.]
4. Whether we shall call for all evidences of those estates now under sequestration, the late committee having none in their hands?
5. That power may be given, on proof of delinquency, to sequester, or it will be prejudicial to the State. [You have power, upon full proof on oath, to seize, secure, and certify.]
6. That we may be encouraged by acting according to instructions, and that the enemy may not find more favour above than below [i.e. in London than here], as they give out they have.
7. Whether a delinquent who has compounded the last year shall have any more out of this estate than so much as he has given in by his particulars, "the late committee not farming, but ordering to receive thereof upon account ?" [The delinquent is to have no further benefit than according to the value in his particular.]
8. What are we to do with those that have paid their first and not their latter moiety? also with those who have only entered their compositions, and not paid anything ?
9. Mr. Musgrave to give us a weekly account by post what answers he receives to these queries.
10. That we may have power to set forth so much of the estates of delinquents who have compounded at undervalues as they compounded for, or else upon refusal, the value in money.
11. To know what agents will be allowed, and what allowance for them and the clerk will be granted ? [2s. 6d. a day for the clerk, and 4s. for the agent.]
12. To know how the present tenants may have their goods secured for the great arrears of Crown rents, for which Mr. Pollard's man drives goods (cattle) ? [What is justly due must be paid.]
13. That we may administer oaths, and command assistance from the soldiers, as without this we cannot carry on the work.
14. To consider of a fit person to be steward.
With marginal notes of replies in brackets. [1 ½ pages. Nos. 1, 4, 6, 8–10 are struck out.]
May 21. 70. Wm. Briscoe and John Barwis, late County Commissioners for Cumberland, to the Committee for Compounding. As we were not privy to the late return of sequestrations made by some of our associates, we could not sign them nor do we know the particulars, but we are well assured that for the most part we concurred and joined with them. The sequestrations herewith sent only import such estates as lie in Cumberland Ward, which contains Carlisle garrison and other places within 6 or 7 miles, where the Leaguer continued from Sept. 1644—the time of the reducement of the residue of this county,—until the latter end of June 1645. During that time we laboured to execute the ordinance for sequestrations, but found the profit not considerable, as in regard of the extreme pressure under which these parts then languished, we had let some lands for no other consideration than to undergo the charges and assessments incident thereto.
Afterwards the Scotch garrison possessed Carlisle until 20 Jan. 1647, during most of which time part of several Scotch regiments of horse quartered in this county were an unexpressable burden, especially to this part, whereupon divers lands became destitute of tillage and occupation, divers delinquents' houses and estates were seized by the soldiers, and there was so great an averseness in the inhabitants to be employed about sequestrations, or to take the farms, that we had very little encouragement to proceed.
After the removal of the Scots, most of the delinquents of the division had either completed their compositions, or were prosecutings them. The dates thereof and of several grants of rent-charges presented to us are not here punctually expressed, but our time was taken up in regulating assessments, and quarters, and composing differences between the soliders and the county; also in a multiplicity of other employments, as justices of the peace and deputylieutenants, which, with other distractions, have unavoidably occasioned omissions in our returns of the sequestrations.
How the money received has been employed ought to appear on the receivers' accounts, which never having been presented to us, we cannot represent to you. However our duty to the public obliges us to intimate that we conceive that in some who have been invested with power in this county, self-respects have been too predominant. [1 3/4 pages.] Enclosing,
71. i. Note of estates farmed and let in 1649, viz.:—the demesne grounds called Corby, belonging to Sir Fras. Howard, farmed by Charles Howard, from 2 Feb. 1649 for a year at 34l., from which was paid to Lady Howard for her 1/5, 6l. 16s. 0d.; to John Raven and John Head, for executing the office of sequestrators, 4l.; for sesses and reparations 24l. 9s. 0d., so that the disbursements exceeded the rent by 7s. (sic).
Several tithes belonging to Sir Fras. Howard were farmed by Col. Fitch, governor of Carlisle, and Charles Howard, at 134l. from 1 Aug. 1649, from which rent was paid to Anth. Sanderson, by order from the committee, 31l. 8s. 6d.; to Mrs. Aglionby, 5l.; to Lady Howard for her 1/5, 13l. 8s. 0d.; to the ministers of Wetheral and Warwick, 12l.; to Mr. Baldwin, clerk, 4l.; in assessments, 13s.; all which make up half the rent, and the other half is not due until Lammas 1650.
The tithes of Langanby, belonging to Sir Timothy Fetherstonhaugh, farmed by Thos. Sewell and two others for a year from 20 April 1648, at 40l., from which, besides the 1/5, was paid as follows:—to Mr. Greene, clerk, 2l.; to the parishioners of Langanby for repairing the church and tithe barn, 5l,; for assessments, 5l.; and to the committee, 28l.
The tithes of Penrith, belonging to Sir Fras. Howard, farmed by the above persons for a year at rent of 145l. 5s. 0d., which was paid as follows:—to Lady Howard for her 5th part, 29l.; to Mr. Baldwin and [John] Hastie, clerks, in part of their augmentations, 52l.; for assessments, 10l.; and to the committee, 52l.
The tithes of Newton, belonging to Wm. Carleton, farmed at the same time at rent of 47l., which was paid as follows:—to [Jas.] Pearson, clerk, for his augmentation, 40l.; by a decree in Chancery, 6l. 13s. 4d., and for assessments, 3l. 6s. 8d.
John Aglionby's estate, farmed by Thos. Sewell and Edw. Pearson for 31l., they clearing all assessments, free quarter, &c., but Aglionby compounding, he had the rent paid to him by order of the commissioners.
So also had George Denton, whose estate was farmed by the above persons for 41l.
Also George Graham, whose estate was farmed by Edw. Pearson at 20l.
Also Henry Baines, whose estate was farmed by Pearson at 7l.
George Barwick's estate, farmed by Sewell at 8l., remains in his hands.
Capt. Dowley's estate, farmed by Edw. Pearson at rent of 8l. 6s. 6d., which was paid to Mrs. Chambers of Holme, on account of her annuity, by order.
Part of Mr. Wyvell's estate, viz., one tithe, farmed by Capt. Studholme, at rent of 20l., which was paid to Mr. Holesworth, minister of Carlisle, by order of the committee, and the other part lying near Carlisle could not be farmed.
Thos. Lowrie and Mr. Wilson's estates, lying also near Carlisle, could not be farmed.
Sir Thos. Dacre's estate was farmed by Thos. Sewell and Edw. Pearson at rent of 32l., they clearing all assessments, &c., and the 5th part, and 55l. to Mr. Pollard, receiver of the rents lately belonging to the Crown; from which rent was paid as follows:—to Simon Atkinson, clerk, for his augmentation, 16l.; to the committee, 16l. Carlisle, 21 May 1650. [2½ pages.]
May 22.
Northampton.
72. County Committee for Northampton to the Committee for Compounding. We have seized the estates of Sir Christopher Hatton and 6 others, also the lands in Mr. Willoughby's lease from the Earl of Northampton, and will furnish particulars of each as soon as obtained. As to the rest of the Earl of Northampton's estate here, we hear from the late committee that they let it to Mr. Bradley of Grendon, and Mr. Becket, for one year from 25 March 1646, at 500l., whereof only 200l. was paid, the remainder having since been detained by order and certificate from Goldsmiths' Hall. We return all rents received, as well as those from Lord Brudenell's estate; we certify the latter, by the desire of Lady Blaney. [1 page.]
May 22.
Cambridge.
73. William Pickering to Mr. Leech, chief clerk to the Committee at Goldsmiths' Hall. We made a return to you very lately of what we had done, and what we wanted to carry on the work, and we had audience from your committee, and our desires answered as much as could be looked for, which makes us go on very cheerfully; but our business calling us away before we could get our instructions, we left our agent French to get them for us. Against one of our desires, keeping of courts, you entered, by an order of the committee, John Jenkinson's name to be appointed steward, an honest man and one that understands the law, and will do it to the State's benefit. Now it appears that our agent French has got an order for himself to be steward; he is no ways fit for it, if he were honest; but if he mends not, we must complain in our next return, and desire another agent. Now French has come down and is ashamed of his doings; he tells Mr. Lowrie that it would not be granted to Jenkinson, who is his son-in-law. "Therefore," said he, "I got it for myself, that your son might have it, or else Pettitt (who is our clerk) had got it." Now this is not true. Pray be a means to the honest committee (which is an honourable title indeed), that Jenkinson may have an order in his own name to be the steward of our courts. [1 page.]
May 22. 74. Thomas French to John Leech, secretary to the Committee for Compounding. Since my coming down, I understand that Mr. Jenkinson expected the steward's place, and was nominated by our commissioners for it, and therefore I am desirous he should have it. Mr. Lowrie, my friend, and to whom I am much obliged, desires it, this gentleman being his son. I therefore send my commission back, that it may be altered to his name if thought fit. [¾ page.]
May 23. Order of the Committee for Compounding, that the treasurers pay no money without special order, unless for the army or navy.
That Arthur Barnardiston be steward to keep courts on all sequestered estates in Essex.
Rich. Sherwin appointed auditor to the Committee for Compounding.
Order on request by the surveyors of the highways of Hornsey, that they may dig and carry away 500 or 600 loads of gravel from Sir George Benyon's estate, for repair of the highways. [G 8, pp. 69, 72.]
May 23. Committee for Compounding to the Sequestration Commissioners of co. Notts. You have seized several estates for non-payment of the latter ½ of the fines; detain as much money as the fines come to, with interest at 8 per cent., since due, and restore the overplus with the bonds. Pay in all your other money to Goldsmiths' Hall treasury. With note of the dates from which the interest on 9 estates named is to be reckoned. [G 8, p. 70.]
May 23. Committee for Compounding to Alderman Allen. The bearer is one of the Sequestration Commissioners for co. Leicester. They have 1,500l. to pay in at Goldsmiths' Hall. It would be of great use to them if you could order payment there to any persons for the use of the army. [G 8, p. 72.]
May 23. Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners for co. Gloucester. We have taken depositions upon an information against your agent, [Edw.] Rogers, but there are witnesses to be examined in the country. Call before you those which shall be named; take their depositions on oath, and send them to us speedily. [G 8, p. 71; 10, p. 29.]
May 23.
Durham.
75. County Committee for Durham to the Committee for Compounding. According to your several orders, we have proceeded to sequester the estates of delinquents who had not paid in their compositions, and doubt not but they will swiftly apply themselves to give you satisfaction. We are in great difficulties about the duplicate to be given by the old committee, which has not come in entire, but in multitudes of broken reckonings and accounts, they having employed many treasurers and agents, and factors for sequestration, and this in a county that has long lain under the oppressing armies of the Scots and the Earl of Newscastle.
We find such confusion in all their accounts,—by reason of billet and free quarter, broken inventories, and cheapness of all manner of goods, both quick and dead,—as very much intricates our affairs here. Were the most exact auditors set on to methodize, yet much spare time and recess from other employment would have to be spent, and yet leave room for evil consciences to abuse the State without remedy. For the main of your profits by sequestrations, we doubt not to give a good account of the increase, beyond what has been heretofore made, and also good discoveries to the State's benefit, and shall be as careful as we can to enquire after arrears and gather them in. We enclose a part of your charge; we have chosen Col. Fras. Wren as treasurer. [1 page.]
May 24. Order of the Committee for Compounding, on motion for Hen. Samways, that the Committee of co. Somerset certify why they disturb him in possession of Godmanston Farm, which he purchased; and that meantime he be not prejudiced by the bond he has entered into, unless the delay in hearing be on his part.
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that the petition of Fras. Woolley, silkman of London, be rejected.
Order on appearance of Thos. Hancock, late collector for Broxton and Nantwich hundreds, co. Chester,—bringing in his account and that of the late Ralph Judson—that he pay in his money to the Goldsmiths' Hall treasury, and Auditor Sherwin state it.
Baron Tomlins named steward for Middlesex.
Order that Rich. Hanbury appear next Tuesday, as witness to a charge against Edw. Rogers, late sequestration to the County Committee of Gloucester. [G 8, pp. 75, 76; 10, p. 30.]
May 24.
Kendal.
76. Committee for Sequestrations, co. Westmoreland, to the Committee for Compounding. We returned to the late Committee for Compounding a list of the chief estates here under sequestration, with the highest rates that were offered for them, but have not received any answer, which is very prejudicial, we not having any power to let. We now enclose a list of other estates taken since the former.
We have given order for the keeping of courts on estates under sequestration, the neglect of which may be very prejudicial. We will observe our instructions by admitting tenants of copyhold estates according to custom, until further order. We have perused several particulars upon which delinquents here have compounded, and find great undervalues, and several concealments, against which we shall proceed, according to our instructions.
With note of reply, 6 June, that they have power to let for 1 year, and are to send [word of] the improved rentals if the estates were let for 7 years. [1¾ pages.] Enclosing,
76. i. List of old customary rents in nature of a copyhold under sequestration in manors named, belonging to Sir Philip Musgrave and 8 others, which are fineable according to their several customs. [1 page.]
May 24.
Caldbeck.
77. County Committee for Cumberland to the Committee for Compounding. We sent your letter to the late committee, who promised that their accounts should very shortly be despatched to you. A duplicate has been sent to us, which is so confused and imperfect, that no help is afforded us in answering your instructions. For the present, those estates uncompounded for we have farmed at the highest rate that can be given, and taken security for payment of the rents at Martinmas and Candlemas.
Touching sums of money unaccounted for by the late committee, we summoned the persons concerned to bring in their money to-day; some appeared, but had no money; others promised it within a month; and others not appearing, we have ordered a new summons for them to bring in their money the end of the month. It will require abundance of pains to effect the account required by our instructions; but we will prosecute every particular, and will certify.
For those gentlemen who have compounded and not paid their fines, we have sequestered and secured their personal estates, and knowing no loss can accrue by deferring a little space the farming of their real estates, we have appointed 14 June for letting them and selling their personal estates, if in the interim they do not procure discharges from you, so that we believe most of their fines will be paid in before that time.
We want answer to the following queries:—
1. Are 5ths to be allowed to those delinquents who have continued out of the country, acting for a new war since the last?
2. Are Papists in arms to have 5ths?
3. Are 5ths and 3rds to be set forth in land or money ?
4. May delinquents be treated with for their estates, giving as much and more, and as good security as any other ? [1 page.]
May 24.
Bedford.
78. County Committee for Bedford to the Committee for Compounding. We have appointed all moneys received to be paid in by the bearer, John Rush, and an account thereof to be delivered; but as there are but three of us appointed for co. Bedford, and we live at very inconvenient distances, and have much public business besides, we cannot undertake to be treasurers of the money, and therefore have appointed the bearer treasurer, surveyor, and solicitor; if you approve him, he will inform you of much we otherwise should have told you by letter. [1 page.]
May 24.
Ruthin.
79. County Committee for North Wales to the Committee for Compounding. We will vigorously prosecute the sequestrations in these parts, but you have not directed how our agents and clerk, who without a constant maintenance cannot subsist, shall be satisfied. Pray let our clerk, Benjamin Redenhurst, have 100l. a year out of the sequestrations, and he will not only continue to discharge the place of clerk, but also be solicitor for cos. Denbigh, Flint, and Merioneth. [1 page.]
May 25.
Liskeard.
80. County Committee for Cornwall to the Committee for Compounding. On yours of 18th April, we have already seized the goods and set the lands of divers of the persons named in the lists you sent, and issued warrants for executing your commands upon the rest, as soon as this is effected was hall make speedy sale of the goods, set the lands, and give you particulars. We have set [Nich.] Borlase's estate at 150l. a year, reserving all his rents, the whole being formerly set for 22l. Sir Richard Prideaux's estate is mostly in Devon, and we have lately received further helps from the old committee, but we cannot bring the lands to the yearly value we desire, because our orders from you are to set but for one year, and most of our county being for tillage, cannot be husbanded in so short a term. Our employments in observing your commands are so many, and the justices of peace so scarce, that we cannot now send the certificate of our taking the oath but will as speedily as we may. [1 page.]
May 25.
Hereford.
81. County Committee for Hereford to the Committee for Compounding, We delivered your order to the late committee here for duplicates of their proceedings, but they have not yet been able to furnish them, as there have been so many treasurers and committees. We have, on your orders, sequestered the estates of James Barrall, and seven others, and taken security.
Many brought orders to the late committee for suspending their sequestrations, but not full discharges; we desire instructions therein. As for rents in arrear, we cannot possibly find out the truth until we receive the duplicates, when you will not find us so backward as you think we are. We have improved the rents of estates already granted, and will send you an account; most of the money received has been paid in. We require all necessary Acts and ordinances for furthering this service. With note in reply, 5 June 1650, that if the suspensions are by order of the Sequestration Committee or Barons of the Exchequer, they are void; but if from the Committee for Compounding, the parties are not to be proceeded against until further order. [1 page.]
May 25.
Knutsford.
82. Henry Cockson, County Commissioner for Chester, to the Committee for Compounding. I acquainted you of the charges and seizures against the lands of [Thos.] Starkey, of Stretton, co. Chester, also the manor of Bidston, lands of the Earl of Derby. The enclosed from Mr. Hyde, under-sheriff of Cheshire, will show how we are prevented from raising profits from these estates. Pray let these seizures be suspended, or else the tenants' goods will be seized, and we forced to redeem them. With note of an order given to sheriffs to forbear, and to the commissioners to keep the lands under sequestration. [2/3 page.]
82. i. Robert Hyde to the Committee for Sequestration for Cheshire. I expected to hear from you about prosecuting the discharges of the seizures against the lands of Mr. Starkey of Stretton, and Bidston Manor in Wirrall, as also to receive the 15l. I have now in charge against the same, which you promised should have been paid me before my coming up to London. I remind you of these particulars, because the money already levied by me from the demesne of Stretton must be paid this term into court, if not prevented; and if once paid, there will be no regaining it, and the original debt not one whit the nearer satisfied. If you impart to me both particulars, you shall find me ready to follow your directions. 21 May 1650. [2/3 page.]
May 26.
Southampton.
83. County Committee for Hants to the Committee for Compounding. Your letter being directed to the County Committee for Hants, without naming persons, had been opened by several before it reached us. We attended some of the gentlemen of the committee of this county, delivered the letter enclosed, and [Rich.] Cobb will attend you in a week. We have also seized the estates of those who have omitted to pay their fines or perfect their compositions, according to your order. Note of a case.
We are now on receipt of the Ladyday rents, and hope in a fortnight to pay in the greater part; but it was some time before we could set about the work, the returns of the former sequestrators being so uncertain, and what is under sequestration cannot be ascertained until we have perfected this half year's receipts, when we will certify whatever we can discover. We have taken the oath enjoined by the Act of 15 April. [1 page.] Enclosing,
83. i. Certificate by Edw. Hooker and John Champion, County Commissioners for Hants, that they have appointed Thos. Muspratt, their fellow commissioner, treasurer and receiver of all moneys, rents, &c., of sequestered estates there. 12 April 1650. [½ page.]
May 26.
Worcester.
84. County Committee for Worcester to the Committee for Compounding. We have received the Acts of Parliament and your letters. We have certified Sir Henry Herbert's real estate to be of the yearly value of 327l. The Earl of Northampton has no estate here. We have received 629l. for rents and arrears, due 25 March last, returned 500l., and at Midsummer hope to return the same sum, except we are authorised to pay some augmentations earnestly demanded of us, and formerly paid out of the rents. We have ordered our solicitor to seize and sequester the estates commanded, and some are already secured. We enclose the answer of such of the late committee as received your letter from our officer, with the certificate of Gervase Buck, justice of the peace, of our taking the oath before him. [1 page.] Enclosing,
84. i. Particulars by Edw. Asgill, sequestrator, and Wm. Pardoe, of the estates of Nath. Tompkins, not inserted in his order of discharge; also of Anth. Bushell of Cleeve Prior, the Earl of Shrewsbury, and Rob. Steiner. Worcester, 6 May 1650. [3¼ pages.]
84. ii. Particulars to be moved before the Committee for Compounding by Edw. Asyill, agent to the County Committee for Worcester.
To grant an order allowing the County Committee to set down on their accounts 12d. in the 1l. to be paid to those who first discover moneys or estates, which is but to make good an ordinance of 19 Aug. 1643, and not to be paid until the profits come in. Without this, the discoverers will depose nothing, until they know how to be paid, and will not have the ill-will of their neighbours without some profit. [They shall receive instructions meantime to allow 12d.]
To resolve whether the estates of those are to be freed that have not compounded at Goldsmiths' Hall, but only paid some small sum by order from the House of Lords. [You are in such cases to seize and secure.]
What is to be done with those who refuse to obey the commands of the commissioners, there being no power to compel them? [1 page.]
May 26. 85. County Committee for Cornwall to the Committee for Compounding, Westminster. To the same effect as that of the 25th May. Pardon our mistakes in that of the 25th inst., it being hastily done. With note for a letter to be written to the County Committee for Devon relative to Sir Rich. Prideaux. [¾ page.]
May 27. 86. Ald. Saml. Avery to the Committee for Compounding. There is no truth in the information you have received that I have 3,600l. belonging to the late Dean and Chapter of Lichfield, and 600l. of Sir [Wm.] Boswell, deceased. I have not a penny in my hands belonging to either. [½ page.]
May 27.
Kingston.
87. County Committee for Surrey to the Committee for Compounding. According to the list sent to us by you, we have sequestered the estates of the persons concerned. Particulars of the cases.
With note of reply that they are to send up an account of the money they have received, and attend the Committee for Compounding on Tuesday week; also that Daniel Gotherson has been added to their committee. [2 pages.]
May 27.
Kingston.
88. County Committee for Surrey to the Committee for Compounding. In pursuance of your directions, we have made choice of Benjamin Goodwin, a fellow commissioner, to act as our treasurer. [½ page.]
May 27.
Kingston.
89. County Committee for Surrey to the Committee for Compounding. For the more effectual prosecution of business, we have chosen Wm. Dyer to be our clerk, and Hen. Saunders our agent, being confident they will use their utmost endeavours. Pray confirm such an allowance on them, from the time they first acted, as you give in other counties. [1 page.]
May 28. Order of the Committee for Compounding, that the treasurers are to receive interest for the second half of fines, from 6 weeks after passing of the report.
Note that the under-sheriffs of the several counties appeared, and had directions concerning extents on delinquents' estates.
Order that the sheriffs do not, on any pretence, disturb the State's tenants for any charge or issue on the estates of Papists or delinquents, by extending, distraining, or stay of rents, without special order of this committee.
90. Order on complaint of Lord Howard, that the Sequestration Commissioners of Middlesex and Westminster appear, to show why they have let Wallingford House on lease, contrary to a former order, the committee being unsatisfied with their return.
Order for a general instruction that one of the county commissioners be present with the steward at the keeping of courts on sequestered estates, and that they use their best endeavours to improve the fines. [G 8, pp. 77, 78, 81.]
May 28. Committee for Compounding to Mat. Cliffe, co. Somerset. You engaged for payment by Art. Rodburne of the rent of Newton Park, let to him by the late county committee; he is in arrears 140l., and has committed 100l. waste. You are therefore to pay, or to appear and answer. [G 8, p. 82.]
May 28. Committee for Compounding to Wm. Phelps, Rob. Adams, Thos. Prew, Wm. Collier, sen. and jun., and Wm. Morris. We hear you have peremptorily refused to bring in your accounts and arrears of rent. You are to deliver them forthwith to Capt. Latimer Sampson, the sequestration commissioner of co. Somerset, or appear in 14 days at your peril. [G 8, p. 82.]
May 28.
Salop.
91. County Committee for Salop to the Committee for Compounding. Note of a case. We have received 1,000l. Shall we send it up by the carrier? With note of reply, 11 June, "for the sending up of the money we leave it to your care, you not having hitherto given us that trouble." [1 page; also G 30, p. 380.]
May 28.
Morpeth.
92. County Committee for Northumberland to the Committee for Compounding. We have received several letters from you and the former committee, with the Acts of Parliament touching sequestrations, which we will put in execution. As to the late committee, and the former sequestrations, since the beginning of these wars, this county has been so infested with the enemy that oftentimes the rents of sequestered estates could not be collected, and at other times all or most part of them have been allowed for assess and billet to the Parliament forces, which, with many assessments and taxations, have so much devastated this county that it could not have subsisted if Parliament had not granted the benefit of the sequestrations towards defraying those debts, and other public engagements, whereof many are yet unsatisfied. We certify, on behalf of the late committee, that the sequestration money was faithfully disposed of by them for the good of the county, so we hope we may not be charged with the certifying of the accounts.
We have taken the oath before Sir Arthur Hesilrigge, who will tell you the condition of this county.
We enclose the names of a fit treasurer, steward of courts, and clerk of the sequestrations, and desire you will grant them a commission, with proper salary and allowances. What are we to do about allowing fifths, and compensation for repairs ? The season of the year causes the tenants to press about the latter, and the low condition of the delinquents the former, for their subsistence. [1 ½ pages.] Enclosing,
92. i. List of officers proposed, viz.:—Hen. Horsley of Milburne Grange, treasurer, Thomas Milhurne of Newcastle, steward, and Edw. Crow of Newcastle, clerk. [1/4 page.]
May 28. Committee for Sequestrations, co. Berks, to the Committee for Compounding. On your order of 9 May, we certify that on examination of the inhabitants, we find the whole yearly value of Hurley tithes to be 153l. [G 146, p. 397.]
May 29.
Curry Mallett.
Col. John Pyne to the Committee for Compounding. Col. Edw. Ceely has brought me a letter from you to the late Committee for Sequestrations for Somerset and Bristol, saying that the new committee for sequestrations complain much of our backwardness in making the required returns, and of our opposition. Edw. Curle, their agent, gave me a letter to hat effect, but I told him that the work belonged not to the committee, who could not do it, but to the sequestrators, who were summoned by the new commissioners to say what lands are now in sequestration. As for those discharged, we long since made a return to Goldsmiths' Hall. All our officers are dismissed, and we have not met since our dissolution, but I will give any help in my power, if they come to me.
Do not harbour hard thoughts against the late committee, for they did their best to uphold Parliament and army, when it was held almost a crime to speak in their behalf, and thus we have continued ever since the late King's removal from Holmby. I beg you to peruse the enclosed concerning one of the new committee, against whom much can be proved. [G 102, p. 385.]
May 29. 93. Committee for Sequestrations for South Wales to the Committee for Compounding. We delivered your letters to the late committee. Most of the delinquents in these six counties, and also many of those that were liable to sequestration, were cleared by the late Act for South Wales, yet some few are excepted. We are put to much trouble by the extent of these counties, especially as the late committee were not punctual in keeping records of estates under sequestration. Say whether by the Act for South Wales recusants are cleared, upon payment of their share of that general fine. Many plead it, but we would neither act contrary to any Act of Parliament, nor let any be freed without deserved punishment.
Say also whether Sir Francis Fane has not been voted a delinquent since his first discharge, and whether any prisoners of war, banished by articles on the surrender of Pembroke, are liable to sequestration, or could be cleared by payment of the general fine.
We sequestered Bryan Crowther, of co. Radnor, and sold his personal estate, which amounted to 20l. 10s., and will receive the profits of his real estate, unless he perfects his composition before his rents are due at Michaelmas. We crave allowance for agents, or we cannot improve what is under sequestration, nor discover who are liable thereto, as these six counties are very spacious, and the inhabitants, especially those that are guilty, are so rude and barbarous, that nothing can be had from them but what is wrested by force. We could not get a certificate of our taking the oath, as there is no justice of the peace near. [1 page.]
May 29. 94. County Committee for London to the Committee for Compounding. Notes of cases. We send the names of several persons who have been summoned to bring in their arrears of rent, but they refuse either to come or pay. [1 page.] Enclosing,
94. i. List by Rich. Stileman, agent to the Committee for Sequestration in London, of houses belonging to Ald. James Bunce, seized for his delinquency, viz., the Ship in Gratious [Gracechurch] Street, the White and Red Lion, and other houses, and several warehouses in Bell yard, Fish Street Hill.
Also a list of persons who have been several times summoned, but who have refused to appear or pay their rent and arrears, viz., all the tenants in the Earl of Arundel's houses, whose arrears amount to 313l. 15s.; also the tenants of Robert Peckham, recusant, and Thos. Wilmer, delinquent, 40l. 29 May 1650. [¾ page.]
May 30. Order of the Committee for Compounding,—on appearance on summons of the Sequestration Commissioners for Middlesex and Westminster, who own that on 13 May they granted Wallingford House to the Earl of Rutland, and on reading former orders of this committee and the Committee for Advance of Money, and full hearing,—that Lord Howard is the present tenant, on lease from the Committee for Advance of Money; that this committee has no power to confirm the lease granted by the late Committee for Compounding; but that they disapprove the lease by the county committee to the Earl of Rutland. [G 8, pp. 83, 84.]
May 30. Committee for Compounding to the treasurers-at-war. There is 2,000l. in Yorkshire which is to be returned into the Goldsmiths' Hall treasury, and if you can order the payment of it there to any persons for the use of the army, it will be a great ease to that committee. [G 8, p. 83.]
May 30. John Browne [commissioner for Kent] to the Committee for Compounding. As several orders, papers, &c., belonging to sequestered estates lie in the hands of Lambert Godfrey, late solicitor for sequestrations, and are often wanted by the present county committee, we beg you to order Mr. Godfrey to deliver them to us. [G 158, p. 162.]
May 31. 95. Act for better payment of augmentations out of impropriate rectories, vicarages, tithes, &c., sequestered from Papists or delinquents. [1 sheet, printed.]
May 31. Order of the Committee for Compounding that the sequestration commissioners in the several counties, on seizing an estate, certify to the parties the grounds of their seizure and proceedings.
Note of rejection of Mr. Nelson's motion on behalf of Anne, widow of George Kingsley.
Note of a letter to the treasurers-at-war, for payment of 300l. at Bristol.
Order on motion of Rich. Price, commissioner of co. Montgomery, that Hum. Jones be suspended from acting as recorder, unless he show cause to the contrary in 6 weeks. [G 8, pp. 91, 94, 97.]
May ? List, with particulars of 14 persons who have purchased 2/3 of recusants' estates and paid in their fines, but they are not yet confirmed by Parliament, viz.:—
Corn. Bee.
Thos. Higgins.
Clement Throgmorton.
Rich. Andrews.
Hen. Camock.
John Thompson. John Sharpe.
Thos. Lee.
Thos. Eure.
John Cropley.
Wm. Fitzwilliam.
Clement Palgrave.
Wm. Dormer
Walter Merrall
[G 63, pp. 721, 795—801].
May ? List of persons who have paid fines on compositions in co. Dorset, viz.:—
£ s. d.
John Oldis 68 5 0
Edw. Cutler 48 0 0
John Muston 52 0 0
Edw. Hastings 500 0 0
Hen. Wrathley 38 0 0
Roger Newborough, old rents in Sturminster Newton.
Ant. Salter 38 0 0
Robt. Lawrence 348 0 0
Mr. Stocker 33 6 8
Sir Geo. Morton 600 0 0
Mich. Barnes 32 0 0
Edw. Frampton 98 17 4
Nich. Smart 382 3 4
John Williams 19 0 0
John Stile 30 0 0
Edm. Hall 245 0 0
Jeffry Samways 120 0 0
Mr. Harrington
Hen. Heming 250 0 0
[G 81, p. 223.]
May ? List of 17 persons who paid for their 1/5 and 1/20 parts, from 30l. to 400l. each. [G 81, p. 226.]
May ? Petition of Edw. Curle to the Committee for Compounding. Discovered 1,175l. owing to Sir Hen. Berkley, for which he did not compound. Wm. Cradock, who owed 800l. of it, was sequestered for non-payment, but Sir Henry pretended to have compounded for it, and threatened to make him pay over again if he paid it to Goldsmiths' Hall. Cradock also is bound for 300l. owing to Berkley by—Lottisham. Begs that the 1,100l. may be paid in to the use of the State. [G 79, p. 95.]
May ? 96. County Committee for Cambridge to the Committee for Compounding. We cannot learn when the delinquents' and Papists' estates in co. Cambridge were sequestered, as the papers and books with us only give 3 years' transactions; all the others are with the sequestrators who were put out, and they have not, although requested, brought in any duplicate. [The old sequestrators to be required to give in their books and make returns.] As for the rents in arrear, we have found where some money is due, and given notice for payment, but most have not paid. Mr. Disbrow (formerly a sequestrator, but who has not acted for the last two years) last November went to a tenant at Tadlow, and demanded three half years' rent, received 21l., and gave an acquittance in full. This was according to an agreement made by Disbrow and the recusants' agent, without the knowledge of the committee, contrary to the lease made before the sequestration. We demanding the rent of the tenant, he told us he had paid it to Disbrow, and produced his receipt, but as there was no date upon it, we would not allow it until we knew your opinion, seeing that Disbrow was not appointed treasurer or collector, nor acted as a sequestrator. [The rent to be demanded by the commissioners; certify the defaulters.]
We have taken notice of all Papists in our county, and given order for receiving the 2 parts of their estates.
We have also entered into divers farms of delinquents, and find that most are let at an under value, and that divers honest men are desirous to hire them if they may have a lease for 6 or 7 years, so as to be able to stock the farms; we have also some woods, but have not yet considered what money may be raised by them. [To satisfy themselves of the value, and make a return.]
We have treated with several who would hire farms; they will not tell what price they will give until they know for how many years the farm will be leased, but will give more than they are now let for.
There are several men under sequestration whose personal estates have not been enquired into, nor what arrears are due to the State for them; for discharged delinquents, we have not yet fully inquired by what order their sequestrations were taken off.
We have informations against divers persons that were aiding the forces raised against Parliament with men, money, and arms, but we have not seized their estates until further order.
We know of no augmentation granted to any minister out of any delinquent's estate in our county. We do not hold any sequestered lands. [Isaac] Disbrow, a former sequestrator, held a manor at Eltisley at an under rate.
We have endeavoured to preserve the timber, and find one small grove of it upon a copyhold belonging to Sir Anthony Cage fit to be felled; he wants it done, but cannot without license of the lord, who is a delinquent. There is also some at Burrough Green, and at Wood Ditton fit to be felled, value 300l. [To treat with any person desirous to buy the same, and certify what it will amount to.]
We have taken notice of the rents due for delinquency at Ladyday 1650, and have received several, and given order to the tenants to pay, and have now brought up to the Treasury all we have received since we accepted office.
We have not received any deeds of delinquents, nor can learn where any are.
We have demanded the Court Rolls of Mr. Sedgwick of Cambridge, who was appointed deputy-steward of all the courts belonging to sequestrations in co. Cambridge, but he has not delivered any, although demanded 3 or 4 times. [He is to be required to deliver them up forthwith.]
We have appointed Capt. Wm. Pickering treasurer, as before certified. [To inform Mr. Barton, the former treasurer, that the Act will be put in force if he does not pay within 14 days after demand.]
Divers leases were made for three years from last Ladyday, which we conceive were beyond the commission. [These leases are void.]
We cannot hear that any Papist has been in arms against Parliament in our county.
We have several manors where courts ought to be kept, and because there are none, we cannot receive any quit rents charged upon the several lands belonging to the manors. The passages in brackets are marginal notes of reply. [1 sheet.]
May ? 97.County Committee for Cornwall to the Committee for Compounding. According to your directions of 18 April, we have seized and sequestered the real and personal estates of all the persons mentioned in the two lists sent us. We received great affronts from Nich. Borlace, one of them, who threatens to complain to the Lord General and the committee for relief on Articles of War for our sequestering his goods, which he alleges ought not to have been done, because of his interest under the Articles of Truro.
On behalf of the Commonwealth we answer, first, that all others of the late King's party that claim under such articles understand that they extend no further than to preserve them from plunder, and the present violence and fury of the soldiers, and have thereupon submitted to those ordinances that make them liable to sequestration. Not one in this county opposes this but Borlace, who presumes by his wit, boldness, and false information, to obtain that which, if granted, all the delinquents in this county,—some few excepted that have the benefit of other articles,—will crave the same, and so expect restitution, and thereby those of the late King's party here, who, as is well known, have done great disservice to the Commonwealth, will be least subject to bear those burdens which, by the former actings of malignity, they have brought upon it.
Secondly, by the said articles, all were left to the mercy of this Parliament, only they had a promise to be admitted to reasonable composition, which being but an act of favour, Borlace of all others is least capable of, being a Papist delinquent, a colonel, and the most active of all the Popish party in this county. If anything formerly were out of mercy offered him, it happened because he was not rightly represented, and he has forfeited it by passing over many days assigned for prosecuting his composition, [in hope] of a change and turn of things, being still conceived to carry on dangerous designs against the Commonwealth, and keeping correspondence with the most implacable enemies of it.
All this we make known that he may be dealt with according to his demerits, he being the most cruel oppressor of any that we know of in this county or elsewhere; and his wife, children, and family, as they are of the same religion, so run hand in hand with him in the same acts of cruelty, and that they may be the more prevalent in their oppressions, they have always desperate persons at hand to swear to their proposals. Give no credit to his suggestions, for being of an importunate and clamorous spirit, he may suggest anything on behalf of himself or against us, where there are none to answer. It will be impossible for us at this distance to follow him in all his wranglings.
In this cause we request, as we have formerly done to the committee for relief on articles, that some person of integrity here may be chosen to whom we may give an account of our proceedings against him, or may give you further certificate of him, and then we doubt not but we shall stand clear in the judgment of the world, and his great impudence and falsehood will be so manifest that he will not dare hereafter to abuse the credulity of any public judicature. If he were as well known in London as he is in this county, he would at length sit down under the shame of his notorious wickedness, and no more trouble those who are in authority with such gross and manifest untruths as he has done ever since the reducing of this county. [1¾ pages.]
May ?
North Wales.
98. Committee for Sequestrations in North Wales to Roger Hanmer at Willington. We are instructed by the Committee for Compounding in London to seize all records, profits, and perquisites of courts or manors belonging to delinquents or Papists sequestered or sequestrable, and to appoint officers to the same. Having done so in the sequestered manors of the Earl of Derby in Flintshire, of which you were steward, we have to inform you, though unwillingly, that you are to desist from further officiating as steward to such courts, as also from receiving the rents and profits, as we are now accountable to the State for the same. [1 page.]