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Oct. 1.
Newcastle. |
1. County Committee for Northumberland to the Committee for Compounding.
As to the duplicates of the late committee's proceedings, we requested further
time to put them in some perfect way, but we find such difficulties in it that all
our labour will not give you so exact an account as you require; we therefore
beg you will accept the books only. [Query what books came with this ?] |
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At the first reducing of this county, the ordering of sequestrations was in
the then Commissioners of Parliament resident here with the Scottish Army.
In Whitsuntide 1645, the County Committee took upon themselves the letting
of sequestered lands, according to the ordinance of Parliament, but in regard
of the distractions in these parts, little or no profit could be made of them for
3 years after, all the rents being taken up in assess, billeting, and free quarters
by the Scotch Army. |
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Through distractions, &c., the committee could not follow any direct rule in
their proceedings, nor keep the books exactly, disturbances often interrupting
their service. |
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In 1648 this county was invaded by the enemy, who took up all the rents and
profits of sequestrations, beside the great loss it sustained otherwise when the
enemy had the command. In the retreat of the Cavaliers and Scotch Army
from Preston, they so plundered and spoiled this county that Parliament
granted the benefit of the sequestrations towards repair of the county's
losses, and discharge of other public engagements, and it was disposed of
accordingly. |
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We therefore conceive it cannot be expected that a perfect account can be
given of all the former sequestrations, yet we presume to say that the late
committee have been so faithful and honest in their trust that none can justly
tax or impeach any of their proceedings. |
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With marginal notes of reply that they mistake concerning duplicates; these
reasons are only of force touching the return of accounts. They are to send the
duplicates, and be taught the difference between them and accounts. These
latter are to be returned, and the losses will be considered thereon. A pattern
of the duplicates required is sent, and they are to return the names of the
persons formerly acting. [1½ pages.] |
| Oct. 1. |
Request by N. Lechmere, M.P., that Capt. Wm. Collins may be added to the
County Committee for Worcester, [John] Latham being ill, Col. [John] James
not attending, and the work requiring expedition. With note for a commission
on Major Salway's recommendation. [G 75, p. 857.] |
Oct. 2.
Coventry. |
2. County Committee for Warwick, to the Committee for Compounding.
On your order of 22 July 1651, we repaired to the Earl of Denbigh, to examine
him on your interrogatories, but he wished to be spared, saying that in
10 days he would repair to the Parliament, the Council of State, and yourselves.
[2/3 page.] |
Oct. 2.
Coventry. |
3. County Committee for Warwick to the Committee for Compounding.
Wm. Fortescue, deceased, a Papist, owned Weethley Manor, all but 4l. a year
chargeable thereon. It has now been let at 120l. clear, but the ⅓ are to be paid
thereout if required. We could not obtain more, as Fortescue and his ancestors,
being much indebted, made several leases, rent-charges, and annuities on
the estate, and the late county committee never obtained more than 69l. 11s.
[1 page.] |
| Oct. 3. |
Committee for Compounding to the Committee of co. Hants. Certify us why
you have stayed the rents of Freemantle Park, held by Sir John Hippesley, late
the inheritance of Lord Cottington, but given by Parliament to President Bradshaw. [G 15, p. 40.] |
Oct. 4.
Nottingham. |
4. County Committee of Notts to the Committee for Compounding. We beg
your favour for Abraham Cornish, who has informed against Walter Faunt for
delinquency, that the business may be expedited, because of Cornish's great
charge of children and constant zeal in the service. He has also prosecuted Sir
John Isham and Wm. Cooper. [½ page.] |
Oct. 6.
Chichester. |
5. County Committee for Sussex to the Committee for Compounding.
Lord Morley, delinquent, is the owner of Knep Mill in Sussex, and as it is
very much out of repair and there is no timber on the estate, it will cost 50l. to
procure materials and labour. The mill would let for 33l. a year. Beg directions. [2/3 page.] |
| Oct. 7. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that Capt. Wm. Collins be one
of the Commissioners for co. Worcester. [G 12, p. 319.] |
Oct. 7.
Warrington. |
Edw. Aspinwall to the Committee for Compounding. I gladly embrace your
Warrington, commission to be one of the Committee for co. Lancaster, and have been to
a meeting at Preston, where the other commissioners cheerfully accepted me.
I will show fidelity in public business. [G 64, p. 502.] Enclosing, |
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i. Certificate by Col. Thos. Birch to Aspinwall's taking the oath as a subcommissioner for Compounding, Sequestration, and Advance of Money.
1 Oct. 1651. [G 64, p. 504.] |
| Oct. 7. |
Note by Geo. Charleton, sequestration agent for Cornwall, of the valuation on
survey of delinquents' estates which are posted to be let for 7 years or under, on
23 Oct. for the following rentals:— |
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John Arundel, Sithney |
40l. |
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Do. Trerise |
473l. |
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Do. Lanherne |
198l. |
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Nich. Borlase |
114l. |
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Renatus Bellott |
44l. |
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Thos. Robinson |
30l. |
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Fras. Robinson |
28l. |
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Nich. Jolly |
7l. |
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Thos. Jacke |
20l. |
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Fras. Flavell |
12l. |
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Chris. Grosse |
6l. |
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[G 114, p. 98.] |
| Oct. 8. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that Freemantle Park, co. Hants,
late Lord Cottington's, be discharged from sequestration, and delivered to President Bradshaw, to whom it is granted by Parliament. [G 15, p. 44.] |
| Oct. 8. |
Committee for Compounding to the Committee for co. Worcester. Send us a
list of those against whom you have proceeded in the late rebellion, and particularly how you have proceeded against Col. [John] Birch, who is committed to
prison by the Council of State. Also report your proceedings on further
discoveries. [G 15, p. 43.] |
| Oct. 8. |
Affidavit of Edw. Rich to his faithful discharge of the trust committed to him
as counsel for the settlement of allowances to preaching ministers, according to
the powers given to the Committee for Compounding. [G 113, p. 725.] |
Oct. 8.
Exeter. |
6. Rich. Carter to the Committee for Compounding. Lieut. Nich. Denham,
a lieutenant in the Parliamentary service in the garrison at Exeter Castle under
Major Saunders, and known to the County Commissioners for Devon, who
are now in London, has offered to discover an estate belonging to Sir Rich.
Grenville, worth between 400l. and 500l. a year, if properly remunerated, he having lost all for Parliament and having many children; I desire your directions
as to employing him. He will give security for the due prosecuting of the business. With marginal notes as to whether it was this Sir Richard who was excepted;
Sir John Grenville was included in the Articles, but not Sir Richard. [2/3 page.] |
| Oct. 9. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding,—on complaint of Bellingham and
Hale, that they are hindered in their discoveries of under-valuations in co. Berks
by the non-attendance of Edm. Gardner, agent to the commissioners—that
Gardner attend them, and proceed by their directions. [G 15, p. 46.] |
| Oct. 9. |
Committee for Compounding to Bellingham and Hale. We approve of
your proceedings touching the estates of the Earl of Shrewsbury and [Ant.]
Englefield. We give you absolute power to imprison any who refuse to give
testimony, till they conform. Procure what tenants you can to give the value of
the estates you discover, and certify us with speed. We send an order for Mr.
Gardner to attend you. [G 15, p. 46.] |
| Oct. 9. |
7. List by the Commissioners of co. Durham, of 43 persons who compounded
in 1644 and 1645 with the late Commissioners of Parliament and committee for
the county; with their addresses and the amount paid. [3 sheets.] |
Oct. 9.
Chester. |
8. County Committee for Cheshire to the Committee for Compounding.
We find by the resolutions of Parliament of 11 Oct. 1649, that all such ministers
as have augmentations from any committee of Parliament, or of the several
counties, and shall not subscribe the engagement, and cause the same to be
certified within three months next coming to the Committee of Plundered
Ministers, be thenceforth incapable of receiving augmentation. Also by an Act
of 31 May 1650, all augmentations to any minister that produces a certificate of
having subscribed the engagement are to be paid. |
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The tithes of Wrenbury parish belonged to Lord Kilmorey, who gave
up his right in part of his fine, since which, either by grant by the former
commissioners to trustees, or by order from the Committee of Plundered
Ministers, 50l. a year is allowed to the minister at Wrenbury, 30l. to that of
Acton, and 40l. to that of Burleydam chapel in Wrenbury parish. As Mr.
Crafton, minister of Wrenbury, and [Edw.] Burghall, of Acton, have not subscribed
the engagement, nor own the Parliament and present power, we have secured
their proportion of the tithes till they produce certificates of having subscribed
the engagement. Mr. Crafton had sold his proportion to a widow of Wrenbury
for 10l. before our agent could secure them, but not having delivered them, they
stand secured with the rest, and the widow is in danger of losing her money.
There are other ministers in this county who undeservedly receive the Parliament bounty in way of augmentation, out of the tithes belonging to Lord
Brereton, and have not subscribed the engagement. [1 page.] |
| Oct. 10. |
Order in the Committee for Compounding that Thos. Baker is to appear before
them at Haberdashers' Hall at 3 to-day. |
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That Rob. Jenner, M.P., who is 2½ years in arrears of a rent of 25l. for a
house in Aldersgate Street, sequestered for recusancy of Bridget Fryer, and who
pleads that he has paid her 8l. 6s. 8d. yearly for her ⅓, and 8l. 19s. 2d. taxes
for the 2/3, pay in the balance, being 32l. 14s. 2d., to the London Committee.
[G 15, pp. 45, 47.] |
| Oct. 10. |
9. County Committee for London to the Committee for Compounding. We
never contract with any tenant but we first enquire whether there is any ancient
lease unexpired. We did so in the case of Mr. Leming, whom we found to
have no lease at all from the delinquent; we surveyed his house, which we
found so much out of repair that we could not value it at more than 19l. a year,
he paying all taxes. Say whether he may have the lease. |
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We have surveyed a tenement in Long Lane, part of the sequestered estate of
Rob. Peckham, a recusant, in the occupation of Thos. Young, and contracted
with Young for 2/3 at 5l. a year, his old lease by which he paid 6l. 13s. 4d. having
expired. |
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With note of reply 6 Nov. that the Committee for Compounding have before
answered that if any will not stand to their bargain, the commissioners are to
let the estate to any other at the full rent, and the State to pay all taxes.
[1 page; also G 30, p. 257.] |
Oct. 11.
York. |
10. County Committee for York to the Committee for Compounding. We
have yours of 19 Aug., noticing the 6,000l. in our treasury ready to be paid in
as you shall direct, and ordering its payment in London. But immediately
after, the report being hot that the Scots intended to invade the nation,
fearing that if there should be a tumult, the treasury might be the first place
attempted, we used all possible means to get it returned, and were forced to
solicit divers persons to bring it up to your treasury upon their own terms,
being sensible that upon return of our own army, there would be special
occasion for money; so that by one and the other, then and since, we have
returned 8,000l. as will appear by the list enclosed. Since then some officers
of Major-Gen. Lambert's horse and foot have been to us, and demanded it;
we informed them that we had sent it up, but we would pay them their money
out of the Michaelmas rents, or out of the first money that shall oome in; the
horse officers agreed to wait, but the foot have resolved to send back their
orders. |
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Noted, "The list to be sent over to the Treasury to see whether this money
be all paid in." [1 page.] Enclosing, |
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10. i. Account of moneys returned to Goldsmiths' Hall by the Committee for
Sequestrations for co. York, with the names of 16 persons, to whom it was
paid. Total 8,330l. With note of 500l. returned by Mr. Wright to Haberdashers' Hall. [¾ page.] |
| Oct. 14. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that Jas. Peirce be agent to the
Committee of co. Somerset. |
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Like order for John Wyat of Taunton James. [G 12, p. 323.] |
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Order in the case of the Worcester men, that the lists sent from the county
committee be sent to the London Commissioners, to show cause, if they can,
why their estates should not be discharged. |
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Mr. Squibb to attend the Lord-General with the list, to know if he has anything against the said persons. With letter accordingly. [G 15, p. 48; 133,
p. 319.] |
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An order to go to the Commissioners for co. Hants to discharge Freemantle
Park, it being granted to the Lord President by Act of Parliament. [G 36,
p. 245.] |
| Oct. 14. |
Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners for co. Stafford. You
are to certify your proceedings in the cases of Sir Rob. Shirley, Mr. Offley, and
divers others about whom you long since received particular orders, and
return examinations without further delay. [G 15, p. 48.] |
| Oct. 14. |
11. Wm. Eccleston and James Smith, two agents for sequestrations, co.
Lancaster, to Robert Cunliffe, commissioner. Understanding that you are going
up to London to the Committee for Compounding, we desire you will acquaint
them what our undertakings are about the sequestrations. You know the
largeness of our divisions, and the great number of small estates and lease rents
which belong to Papists and delinquents, and which are a greater charge than
we are able to undertake for so small a pay as they allow. There were 4 times
as many agents in the county as there are now, besides clerks, collectors, and
assistants, all taken away, and our charge is likely to increase by reason of the
risings lately with the Scotch King and the Earl of Derby. Move the commissioners to allow each of us 3s. 4d. a day, or what more they please; under
that sum we cannot undertake the work, but desire to be discharged, as we
shall be forced to spend our own money. [1 page.] |
| Oct. 15. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding that further proceedings be forborne
against Henry Potter, late of London, apothecary, sentenced to death by the
High Court of Justice for treason by him confessed, and pardoned under the
Great Seal 17 Sept. 1651. [G 15, p. 51.] |
Oct. 16.
Somerset House. |
Herbert Morley, M.P., to the Committee for Compounding. I and other Surrey
gentlemen wrote you on behalf of Mr. Raines, as steward to Lord Craven's courts
in Sussex. I was not, as you are informed, surprized into signing the letter, and
I renew my request, as he has always demeaned himself well. With order,
21 Oct., for his appointment. [G 112, pp. 1025, 1027.] |
| Oct. 16. |
Committee for Sequestration for London to the Committee for Compounding.
We know no cause why the persons mentioned in the list from Worcester
should not be discharged. The prosecutors have no charge except against Hen.
Ford, about whom they will speak with the Lord-General and other Parliament
men. There are others not in the above list about whom we desire your orders.
[G 133, p. 315.] |
Oct. 16.
Preston. |
12. County Committee for Lancaster to the Committee for Compounding.
Having received a certificate from persons in Burnley Parish, Blackburn
Hundred, that houses in Burnley sequestered from John Grimshaw, a recusant,
were in great decay, and that the lands thereto belonging near the river were
like to be washed away if not speedily prevented, we ordered our agent to
view the decays, and certify the charge of repair; but the winter approaching,
the neighbours are very earnest with us to repair the breaches made by the
water in the highways, lest their passage to church and market should be
stopped, and their houses endangered. It was always repaired at the cost of
the occupiers of those lands, but having no power to allow anything towards
the reparations without your order, we desire your directions. [1 page.]
Annexing, |
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12. i. Order by the County Committee for Lancaster, that George Hindley,
agent for Blackburn Hundred, view and certify the decay of the houses and
lands of John Grimshaw, and what will be the cost of repair. 24 Feb. 1651.
[½ page.] |
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12. ii. Certificate by Hindley, that 30l. will not repair the premises. 17 March
1651. [½ page.] |
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12. iii. Order in the county committee on the above certificate, allowing out of
the profits of the said estate 26l. 13s. 4d. towards the repairs. Manchester,
Jan. 30, 1652. [Copy, ¾ page.] |
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12. iv. Certificate of Nich. Townley, and 16 other inhabitants of Burnley, that
a house there formerly belonging to John Grimshaw of Clayton, has partly
fallen down, and the rest much decayed; this was represented to the County
Committee at Manchester, who by their order of 28 Jan. 1650, allowed
26l. 13s. 4d. but as they were soon after discharged, the money was never
paid, and it will now be insufficient to put the house into reasonable repair.
Unless speedy course be taken, the water will wash away the common highway and street, with other houses, to the great prejudice of the neighbours, and
of passengers having occasion to travel between the market towns of Halifax,
Blackburn, and Preston. Feb. 1, 1652. [Copy, 1 page.] |
Oct. 16.
Preston. |
13. County Committee for Lancaster to the Committee for Compounding.
Particulars of cases. We have secured a tenement formerly sequestered for
recusancy of John Stansfield, deceased, and now descended to Mary Howell,
widow, who is conformable; we beg relief for her. We have also secured 2/3 of
the estate of Jeoffry Melling, suspected of Popery, who has refused the oath
of abjuration. |
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With note of reply, 27 Nov., that those who claim Stansfield's estate are to
prove their title by oath, when further directions will be given. They are to
sequester Melling according to instructions. [1 page; also G 30, p. 212.] |
| Oct. 17. |
Order in the Committee for Compounding, on a list of names given in by the
County Committee for Worcester, for the discharge of many of the persons in
the said list as being well affected. As to others, Mr. Winslow is to wait on the
Barons of Exchequer to know if they have any charge against them. [Most of
the names are obliterated. G 133, pp. 323–326.] |
Oct. 17.
Wells. |
14. County Committee for Somerset, to the Committee for Compounding. Having raised money by granting of estates upon copyhold tenements
under sequestration, out of which fifths are demanded for the delinquents'
wives and children, as your instructions mention the clear yearly value, ought
a fifth of the fines for such estates to be paid? With note of reply, 30 Oct.,
that the Committee for Compounding do not think it fit or just to allow the
same. [½ page; also G 30, p. 392.] |
Oct. 18.
York. |
15. County Committee for York to the Committee for Compounding. We
have several times presented to you the condition of sequestered tenants, and
particularly those of Lord Dunbar, there being many fee-farm rents due yearly
out of them, which have run in arrear, and are now violently called upon by
messengers sent down by the Revenue Committee. The rents for 1643, 1644,
and ½ of 1645 were granted by Parliament to the militia of this county, and
were by a late order remitted, —the greatest part of this county being under
the power of the King's army, and much plundered and burdened with
assessments, —and for 1646 and 1647, that revenue was assigned for payment
of the brigade of Major-General Lambert. Nevertheless those messengers
have, contrary to those directions, and notice from us that we are not to suffer
any incumbrance upon sequestered estates, levied and taken large fees, as may
appear by their acquittances, a copy of which we enclose, which sums we,
having undertaken to save the tenants harmless, are bound to allow them, and
thereby the revenue will be much lessened; let some order be procured from
the committee for prevention of the like for the future. |
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With note of reply, 29 Oct. You are not to suffer any distresses on such
pretences, and if anybody attempts to levy, unless by order from us or Parliament, you are to secure them. We have written to the Revenue Committee
to prevent such troubles. [1 page; also G 30, p. 485.] Enclosing, |
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15. i. Receipt by John Ritchell and Henry Leppington, messengers, of 25l.from
Law. Cockrell, on a distress in discharge of three years' arrears of rent due
from Viscount Dunbar to the Commonwealth, from 1645 to 1647; also for
2l. 10s. as their fee at 4d. a mile, from London to Thorny Croft, and 3s. 4d.
for the distress. Oct. 11, 1651. [¾ page.] |
| Oct. 21. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that Basil, Earl of Denbigh, —
having acknowledged that his mother had changed her religion, and that his
sister is gone into a nunnery with the Queen, and is guardian to her child, and
desiring time to give his answer as to the estate whereof his mother is seized,—
have 14 days to answer whether she has any jointure, or is dowable, and what
he pays her yearly in lieu of jointure. |
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Order that the Derby Commissioners call to account Thos. Harryman of
Derby for all moneys received for stone, lead, wood, or other materials of
Wm. Bullock's house, lately pulled down, being under sequestration, and
dispose of them and all materials of houses pulled down to the best advantage,
and also of the house and site. |
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Roger Wilford, clerk to the late committee for Westminster, or whoever
has the books and records of the committee, is to attend Aud. Sherwin with
them all. |
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Order on a certificate of the Commissioners of co. Worcester, of 8 Oct. 1651,—
giving a list of those persons who are inhabitants of Worcester whose estates
are seized in London, but who are found well affected, and not connected
with the late treason,—that the estates of 54 persons named be discharged.
[G 15, pp. 52, 54.] |
Oct. 21.
Northwich. |
16. County Committee for Cheshire to the Committee for Compounding.
In April 1650, Henry Sidebotham of Rudheath Lordship discovered the delinquency of John Winnington of Rudheath, by which we received last year out
of his lands and goods 8l. 13s. 8d.; he also discovered a debt of 11l. owing by
Wm. Heale of Mobberly, and others, to John Bretland of Thorncliffe, Cheshire,
a delinquent,—which was by bond of double penalty, made to Heywood, a
servant of Bretland, but proved to be due to Bretland,— all which discoveries
amounting to 19l. 13s. 8d. we have received for the State; Sidebotham
having solicited 1s. in the pound, according to the ordinance of Parliament,
we request your order therein. There have been other discoveries by which
some money has been received, and for which the discoverers expect allowance,
and more would be made had we the power to pay the 1s. in the pound. |
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In Sept. 1650, we took several examinations against 6 men, all of Brereton,
and copies were sent to you; we proceeded and secured their estates, but
though we have often written to know your resolution, we have never received
any, save an order in the case of Wm. Carter, clearing him from sequestration.
[¾ page.] |
Oct. 21.
Northwich. |
17. County Committee for Cheshire, to the Committee for Compounding.
Particulars of cases. We desire your resolutions therein, as also on our letters
of 24 Sept. last, and 8, 9, and 16th instant. [¾ page.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Committee for Compounding to the Committee for co. Lancaster. We ordered
you to join with Rob. Massey in sequestration business, but we find you disposed
to give him and us trouble. Notwithstanding your allegations, we write again
to enforce obedience; act with Massey, or we shall speedily appoint others
less refractory. If you have good cause against him, show it in a month. We
send him down, and in case you refuse to act with him, till you show cause,
Edw. Aspinwall, our fresh commissioner, is to act with him. We want your
accounts in 3 weeks, being much unsatisfied in some particulars. [G 15, p. 56.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Committee for Compounding to Edw. Aspinwall, directing him to act with
Massey. [G 15, p. 56.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners for co. [Kent.] |
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Sir Geo. Whitmore, Hen. Cooke, and John Harris discharged by the late
Committee for Sequestrations, and Mr. Knight by a decree in Chancery, must
produce their discharges before us in 28 days, unless they are compounding
therefor. [G 15, p. 56.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners of co. Gloucester. You
are to order the underwritten 17 persons, who are discharged, to produce their
discharges in 28 days to us, unless they have compounded. |
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Also two discharged by the late Committee for Sequestrations. |
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Also ten discharged by the Barons of Exchequer. |
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Also Edw. Stamford, discharged by order from Sir Rich. Skeffington and
Col. Needham of the late County Committee. |
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Also Thos. Lewis, by the South Wales Commissioners. [G 15, p. 57.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners for co. Chester. Like
orders to produce discharges for Capt. Thos. Trafford and Hum. Phillips, discharged by the county committees, and 4 others discharged by the Committee
for Compounding. [G 15, p. 57.] |
| Oct. 22. |
John Man to John Leech. I request your favour for Joshua Gynor, one of
our [Essex] agents. He long since, by his care, discovered part of Ald. Bunce's
estate at Theydon Garnon, and we have received the rents ever since, but when
he delivered his certificate of his discovery to Mr. Bayley, he was told that he
could receive no allowance for it, because he was an agent. |
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I hope his faithful service does not render him incapable of reward, or he may
be discouraged for the future. [G 71, p. 854.] |
| Oct. 22. |
Petition of Rob. Massey, mercer of Warrington, to the Committee for Compounding. There having been growing on lands of the Earl of Derby in Pilkington, 38 score of timber trees and poles, and some being much decayed and
of no use, because coals are gotten within a mile or two, and part having been
cut down and sold by the tenants, begs them to sell the timber to him at the
State's price, being already marked, numbered, and appraised, and to give him
time for payment; and to call on the tenants for the value of the timber by them
sold. Also begs liberty to cut down, make sale, and carry away without interruption from the tenants. With note [in short hand] that the Committee for
Compounding can give no order as to the wood. [G 101, p. 843.] |
Oct. 22.
Durham. |
18. County Committee for Durham to the Committee for Compounding. We
have paid by appointment of Sir John Wollaston, 4,000l.; that is to say, to Major
Tolhurst 2,771l. 15s. 4d., and to Col. Fairfax 1,228l. 4s. 8d.; and will return the
acquittance to the treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall as soon as we can. [2/3 page.] |
| Oct. 23. |
Committee for Compounding to the County Committee for Kent. We have
perused your contracts, and confirm such as were made before your instructions, — presuming that you proceeded on good grounds — so far as we are
authorized by Act of Parliament. We also confirm those made since the
instructions, if surveyed and posted according to the Act. Directions in a case.
[G 30, p., 192.] |
Oct. 23.
Salop. |
19. Committee of co. Salop to the Committee for Compounding. According
to instructions we have received and posted the estate of the Countess of
Arundel, but the only bidders were Edw. Baldwin and Wm. Cowse, men of
good estate, who bid 866l. 16s. 11d. for 7 years, with good security. We think
it would be better to let all to one person, the rents being small. [1 page.] |
Oct. 25.
Brecknock. |
20. John Gunter and Wm. Thomas, County Commissioners for Brecon, to
the Committee for Compounding. We have received your commission for us
to act in co. Brecon, and your letter of discharge to the former committee;
though they were detained by Wm. Watkins, one of the old commissioners, to
retard our proceedings, and to enable him to receive the Michaelmas rents and
grant leases. |
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We have sent to Watkins to deliver all books and papers, and account for
rents received and what is in arrear, which he has not done; we also summoned the former solicitors, sequestrators, and agents to give in their
accounts, but they have not done so. John Morgan, formerly chief sequestrator,
contemptuously said he had nothing to do with us, and his accounts were with
Watkins. Shall we levy 20l. on all that refuse to bring in their accounts and
papers? |
|
Watkins discourages the tenants from paying rents to us, and obstructs
our proceedings, telling them he will quash this commission as soon as he comes
to London. Nevertheless we summoned the tenants, on whose appearance, and
on enquiry of the value of the sequestered estates in this county, it appeared
that Watkins has made several leases thereof, and discharged some sequestrations contrary to your instructions, and has let the same at extreme low
rents and under-values, particularly the lands of Edw. Winter, worth 100l.,
at 20l. a year. Most part of the rents due at Michaelmas have been received by
Watkins, and he refuses to pay them to us. |
|
All the ministers of this county were ousted two years past by the commissioners named in an Act for the propagation of the gospel in Wales, since which
none of those churches have been supplied, and yet the rents and profits of all
rectories, vicarages, donatives, glebe lands, &c., have been received by the said
commissioners and their agents, which in this county amounts to above 4,000l.
or 5,000l. a year. As we have received no instructions, we have forborne
intermeddling therein, although we conceive the Act only gives power to the
commissioners to receive and dispose of the aforesaid rents for the propagation
of the gospel, and not to let, set, and gather, which we conceive to be our proper
employment. [1¼ pages.] |
Oct. 27.
Winchester. |
21. County Committee for Hants to the Committee for Compounding. The
estates mentioned in the enclosed particulars having been posted to be let for
7 years, we transmit the offers made for your confirmation; also 2 others sent
long since of the estates of Sir John Webb and Katherine Tichborne, widow,
that the leases may be prepared. Finding Freemantle Park to have been in the
management of the Irish Trustees, and not being privy to any disposal thereof
to President Bradshaw, we seized and posted it to be let to the best advantage;
but on receiving your order, we surceased to act, and have discharged the estate.
We hope within the next 3 weeks to get in most of the rents, and pay them.
We will then attend you with proofs of the charge depending before you against
Woodman. |
|
With note of answer, 6th Nov., confirming the leases if surveyed and posted.
[¾ page; also G 30, p. 406.] |
| Oct. 27. |
The Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal to the Committee for Compounding. In the name of those appointed by Parliament to bring in an Act
for settling 4,000l. a year on the Lord-General, and 2,000l. a year on the DeputyGeneral of Ireland, we desire you to send us speedily the surveys of the Duke of
Buckingham's estate in cos. Rutland, Berks, and Leicester. Certify also what
you have let, with or without survey. [G 71, p. 725.] |
| Oct. 28. |
Order of the Committee for Compounding, that Edw. Raynes of Barcombe,
Sussex, be steward for keeping courts in Aldwick and other manors sequestered from Lord Craven. [G 12, p. 331.] |
|
Order to summon Sir Hen. Wood of Hackney to take the oath of abjuration,
and to produce his license to go beyond seas. |
|
Also to write to M. Ozier, the French agent, to desire him to come to the
commissioners, as they wish to confer with him about English delinquents in
France. [G 36, p. 247.] |
| Oct. 29. |
Committee for Compounding to the County Committee at Newcastle. In
yours of 1 Oct. you say there is no hope of receiving duplicates of the former
committee's proceedings, but by your excuses you seem to think only accounts
of moneys received and paid are meant, which is not satisfactory. We do
require these, but they must include charge of billet, taxes, &c., whilst the
country was under power of the enemy, that they may be defalked. Without
them we cannot discharge our duty otherwise than by inflicting the penalty of
the Act in case of default. |
|
But besides the accounts, we want duplicates of the proceedings in
cases of sequestration and discharge, and the actings of the committee at their
sittings, according to the Act of 29 Jan. 1650. We send you a precedent
according to which such returns should be made, and you must forward it to
those who chiefly acted, and send us their names. [G 30, p. 64.] |
| Oct. 29. |
Committee for Compounding to the County Committee for Sussex. You may
repair the mill you named 6 Oct., on Lord Morley's estate, but take care there
is no needless expense. [G 30, p. 448.] |
| Oct. 29. |
Committee for Compounding to the Revenue Committee. The Act of
29 Jan. 1650 directs that no charges on sequestered estates be paid till allowed
by the late Committee for Compounding, whose power is now transferred to
us; yet we receive complaints from several counties of the carriage of agents
from you, claiming fee-farm rents due from sequestered estates, levying arrears,
and charging large fees, which we have no power to allow. We beg you to
take some course to prevent such miscarriages, and command your officers not
to issue warrants to disturb the State's tenants, and draw charges on the
Revenue, since it is your order that we should not permit such levies without due
proof, which in such cases is never offered, and therefore must be opposed till
Parliament gives us further order. If rents due from delinquents were not
paid out of sequestrations till after composition, Parliament loses nothing
meanwhile, all the return going into their treasury. [G 30, p. 485.] |
Oct. 29.
Brecknock. |
22. County Committee for Brecon to the Committee for Compounding.
We have surveyed lands and tenements under sequestration, doing our
utmost to discover the real value, and find that for the last two years the late
Commissioners for South Wales have let the sequestered estates at extreme
under values. The several tenants, being summoned, have satisfied us that they
pay the chief farmers far greater rents than are accounted for to the State,
whereby the State is prejudiced, and a great advantage raised by private
persons. We have summoned Wm. Watkins, Edw. Games, formerly treasurer,
John and David Morgan, and Howell, John and Wm. Jones, the sequestrators, to
deliver us their books and papers, and an account of their former proceedings,
but they have refused, and purpose to conceal their accounts. We hear that
there remain vast sums in their hands unaccounted for. |
|
We have imposed the fine of 20l. a-piece upon them for their contempt, and
desire directions as to levying for it. Watkins and his associates, contrary to
your instructions, have let the lands in the survey enclosed for above a year.
We cannot hear that they have ever been posted, and several persons have
already offered us the full value mentioned in our survey; we desire your
directions. |
|
We also hear that many Papists and delinquents are concealed, their estates
yet unsequestered, others illegally discharged from sequestration, several
estates compounded for at under values, others omitted out of their composition, and still enjoyed free from sequestration; there has been a note produced
to us under the hands of Mr. Watkins only, discharging Alexanderston lands
from sequestration without your orders. With marginal notes for a reply.
[2 pages.] Enclosing, |
|
22. i. Valuation of the estates of the late Earl of Worcester, Edw. Winter,
Bodenham Gunter, Sir Fras. Fane, Elizabeth Bevans, and Howell Price,
co. Brecknock, real value 1,182l. a year, let by the former committee at 723l.
[2 pages.] |
| [Oct. 29.] |
23. Queries on which the Brecon County Committee request directions
from the Committee for Compounding. As the late county committee
refuse to deliver up their books and papers, we have fined them 20l. a-piece,
and desire order that the sheriff and his officers may assist in levying the
fines. These former commissioners have let the sequestered estates, really
worth 1,182l. a year, to their friends and others at 723l., prejudicing the State
for the last two years by 918l.; and contrary to their instructions, have let
estates worth above 20l. per annum for more than one year, and some of them
for 7, and at great undervalues, and without posting them. Pray declare all
such leases void. |
|
William Watkins, one of the commissioners, discharged the lands of
Alexanderston from sequestration, on the death of Eliz. Bevans, the Papist
owner; and Roger Thomas, the now tenant, can produce no other grant
or discharge, or give account by what authority he held it, and what remained
in arrear; we have fined him 20l. |
|
From search in the treasury of Goldsmiths' Hall, we find that the former
commissioners paid from the profits of the sequestered estates in the six
counties of South Wales, 1,201l. 6s. 8d. for the two years last past, whereas it
appears by the commissioners' certificate, that the sequestrations of co. Brecon
only, for those years, amounted to 1,182l. They should be called to account
for all the profits of the sequestered estates in the other counties, which may be
best done by naming new commissioners. |
|
The commissioners named in an Act of 22 Feb. 1650, for propagation of
the gospel in Wales, &c., have for the last two years ousted most of the
ministers in South Wales and co. Brecon, which has 73 parishes, and have not
supplied others; there are only two at present preaching, nevertheless they
have disposed of all the rectories, vicarages, donatives, sinecures, portions,
tenths, impropriations, glebe lands, and all ecclesiastical livings whatsoever,
the revenues whereof in co. Brecon alone amount to 4,000l., or 5,000l. a year,
whereas the Act gives them power only to dispose of the profits for propagation
of the gospel, but gives no power of letting the same. They are let to their
own friends and creatures at extreme undervalues, yet under-let by them
to the parishioners at rack rents. Pray direct the letting so as to advance the
propagation of the gospel, schools, and literature; and order accounts to be given
to the treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall. There are vast sums still unaccounted for
in the hands of the commissioners, sequestrators, treasurers, and agents that
managed sequestrations, from the beginning of the wars to 20 April 1650, on
which we beg your instructions. |
|
With notes of reply 27 Nov. by the Committee for Compounding. We thank
you for your care in searching out the miscarriages of the late commissioners.
You are to levy on each the fine of 20l.; if they refuse to pay, you are to levy
40l. each, according to the Act; if they still refuse, to call in the sheriffs, justices,
trained bands, &c. You are then again to demand the accounts, and report
their answer, when in case of refusal, we will commit them to custody. We
have confirmed none of their contracts, so we make void all that are for more
than a year. As the leases expire, the land may be let at full rents for 7 years,
allowing Parliamentary taxes only, but no other rent or charge above 1l. a year
without order from us. The Alexanderston estate discharged by Watkins must
be re-sequestered, but he cannot be fined for the act, however unjust. |
|
We wish to see the Act of 22 Feb. 1650, and your power. |
|
Our souls are much aggrieved at the sadness of your relation about rectories,
&c., but we have no power to meddle therein except as Christians in making
known such abuses to those who can rectify; we have told Major-Gen. Harrison,
and the Army Committee, who will make it known to Parliament. |
|
You are to force the late committee to bring you their accounts from
Dec. 1649. [1¼ sheets; also G 30, pp. 419, 420.] |
| Oct. 30. |
Order in the Army Committee that the Committee for Compounding confer
with them next Wednesday about propositions made and referred to Parliament,
and bring with them the certificate required. [G 63, p. 608.] |
Oct. 30.
Haberdashers' Hall. |
Committee for Compounding to the Commissioners of the Great Seal. On
your request of the 27th, we send you surveys of the Duke of Buckingham's
estate in cos. Essex and Bucks; from Leicester we have not received one, but
send you copies from an account in 1649 of Papists' estates there, of the lands
of the Earl of Antrim, and Duchess of Buckingham, descended by her death to
the Duke. We cannot certify the truth of these accounts, for though we use
diligence to prevent errors, we have met with them. We do not think ourselves
to blame, because we cannot obtain allowance of a surveyor-general, a necessary
officer to prevent miscarriage in the return of surveys. [G 15, p. 67.] |
| Oct. 30. |
Order in the Committee for Compounding to leave out the last clause
of the preceding letter; the copies of such surveys and certificates requested
as are with the auditor or registrar to be returned, with that letter under their
hands. |
|
Order that the committee resolve on Tuesday how far they will allow the
articles of Lynn. [G 15, p. 65; 36, p. 248.] |
| Oct. 30. |
Committee for Compounding to the Barons of Exchequer. We reminded you
5 Sept. what the Act of 25 Jan. 1650 requires from your registrar, yet we have
no certificate, and are much prejudiced thereby in many cases that come before
us. We earnestly beg you to see it transmitted to us at once, or we shall be
unwillingly obliged to represent the same to Parliament, to free ourselves from
blame. [G 15, p. 65.] |
Oct. 30.
Wells. |
24. County Committee for Somerset to the Committee for Compounding.
The manor of Aldwick, belonging to Lord Capel, is compounded for at 100l.
a year, and set by us at 75l., which seems to render us negligent in the
discharge of our trust; but the manor having been leased out for 21 years by
the late Lord Capel, was so impoverished by the tenants through ploughing
and tillage, that the yearly value is much abated, and by our best survey and
enquiry, it appears to be now set at the full value. The bailiff never knew
it set at above 86l., and the public charges payable by the tenants in those
parts being very great, they and the present rent will amount to a greater sum;
he thinks that it is now set at a sum much beyond its value. Therefore we
hope we may not suffer disrepute, nor those tenants who have contracted with
us be predjudiced by reversing the contracts. |
|
We received your letter for discharging the remainder of Lord Capel's estate,
but not knowing whether the State or the trustees ought to receive the
Michaelmas rents, we have suspended this until further order. There have
been no estates of value let by us without survey. [1 page.] |
| Oct. 31. |
Order in Parliament—on the propositions of the Committee for Compounding
for quickening receipts—that the first be referred back to the Committee for
Compounding, to certify the names of the delinquents interested, how many are
beyond seas, and who have desired to compound. The other propositions to be
referred back to the Army Committee. [G 63, p. 611.] |
| Oct. |
Report thereon of the Committee for Compounding, that they did not
include in that first proposition any in the bill of sale, nor any Papists in arms,
nor delinquents beyond seas, nor any who have been delinquents since
30 Jan. 1649, nor any whose estate is specially granted away; but that it is
merely a general proposition, founded on receipt of several petitions to compound. [G 63, p. 636.] |
| Oct. 31. |
25. County Committee for Notts to the Committee for Compounding. We
have been extremely hindered in letting a farm of the Earl Newcastle's in
Kirkby-in-Ashfield by a malignant faction, of which we send you a certificate.
The authority of Parliament and yours derived to us is questioned by them;
you would hardly believe their malicious endeavours, though varnished with
pretences. [½ page.] |
Oct. 31.
Kendal. |
26. County Committee for Westmoreland to the Committee for Compounding. Notes of a case. We often asked directions about disposal of the money
in hand. During this late invasion of the King of Scots, we had to give
480l. 2s. 10d. towards a month's pay to a troop of volunteer horse and dragoons
raised here by commissions from Maj.-Gens. Lambert and Harrison, and other
disbursements raised it to 502l. 16s. 10d., for allowance of which we are
petitioning Parliament. The remainder we will dispose according to your order.
[2 pages.] |
