George III: January 1772

Calendar of Home Office Papers (George III): 1770-2. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1881.

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'George III: January 1772', in Calendar of Home Office Papers (George III): 1770-2, (London, 1881) pp. 411-425. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/home-office-geo3/1770-2/pp411-425 [accessed 25 March 2024]

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January 1772

1 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No. 2.
1015. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Townshend) to the Earl of Rochford.
Kelly, the messenger, arrived yesterday with the Money Bill, &c. It was immediately sent to the House of Commons, where it was read twice, committed and reported, then carried up to the House of Lords, where it went through the same ceremonies; the whole in one day, a circumstance as agreeable as unprecedented; and this afternoon his Excellency gave it the Royal Assent. By this the difficulties mentioned in his letters of 26th and 27th Dec. are entirely obviated. Parliament has adjourned as usual for a month.—Dublin Castle.
Received the 8th. 1 p.
1 Jan.
Isle of Man, v.1, 1761–74, No.93.
1016. John Wood, Governor of the Isle of Man, to Lord—.
In answer to letter of the 21st ult., relative to the places for performance of quarantine. The orders and regulations for quarantine were as strictly observed in the Isle as possible, and Ramsey and Derby Haven Bays were assigned for that purpose; not that they were in any respect proper, but for want of any other commodious place. Points out the dangers, &c. to ships in such "exposed and boisterous" bays. From the experience of ten years and upwards, is of opinion that there is no part of the Isle which is in any shape convenient for the purpose, and that mere necessity pointed out Ramsey and Derby Haven.—Isle Mann.
Received the 15th. 2 pp.
2 Jan.
Channel Islands, v.42, No. 4 a, b.
1017. Sir Jeffery Amherst to the Earl of Rochford.
Enclosing a report of the state of the castles, forts, batteries, &c. of Guernsey, with the several papers referred to therein. A return was given in, during the war, of what was judged, on a survey of the Island, to be the best manner of defending it, but nothing has been done in consequence. As most of the defences are in a ruinous condition, recommends that a proper engineer should be sent to view the whole. The best defence is that of preventing the enemy from making good their landing in any part thereof.—Near Whitehall.
The report, dated Guernsey, Nov. 10, 1771, and signed by Lieut.-Governor P.Æmil. Irving. With the report were sent over a plan of the Island, a plan of Castle Cornet, and a state of the fortifications. [They are not now with it.] The Lieut.Governor asks how it was possible for an officer to be answerable for the place in the condition it was in, and says the principal people of the Island thought they had a just claim to some assistance from England to put the Island in a better state. In reference to his own position, he says that it was with the utmost difficulty that he was able to get part of a house, for which he was paying 40l., though he had no stables, chaise-house, washhouse, or rooms for servants (which was an additional expense of 10l. yearly), while he was only allowed 34l. He was in a much worse position than any of his predecessors, a company of invalids having been annexed to the Lieut.-Governor till his time. He compares the situation of Jersey, and says he would have looked about him long had he not been assured that Lieut.-Governor Corbet's solicitations were likely to prove successful. 12 pp.
3 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p. 320.
1018. Stanier Porten to Sir Abm. Isaac Elton.
Desiring him to give notice to Mr. Land and Peyton to come up to London once more, and to be here on Friday evening, the 10th inst., bringing with them the receipt and Mr. Player's daybook, for it is hoped that Dudley's trial will now be immediately brought on, and finally determined.—St. James's.
4 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 8, No. 31.
Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 12.
1019. Earl of Hillsborough to the Lords of the Admiralty.
In answer to their letter of 2 Oct. last, relative to the collection of the sixpenny duties for Greenwich Hospital from the fishing vessels of Marblehead and Salem, in North America. Directs them to consider the instructions which have been already given to the collectors of the sixpenny duty, and, in case they think further instructions necessary, to take the steps that shall seem most proper to them.—Whitehall. A draft. 1 p.
4 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441. No. 1 a, b.
1020. Earl of Suffolk to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
In answer to letters of 26 and 27 Dec. (in the absence of Lord Rochford). Transmits the report of the Attorney and Solicitor General on the Loan Bill. His Majesty approved his Excellency's caution. The opinion of the Attorney and Solicitor General here is precise enough to justify him in opening a subscription immediately on the Loan Bill, if it were absolutely necessary; but as the Money Bill is now returned, and the time when it may probably pass is not so far distant as to cause any material inconvenience, it appears more prudent to avoid bringing on a question (which would undoubtedly be much canvassed) by postponing the measure till that time.—St. James's. A draft.
The original report, signed "E. Thurlow" and "Al. Wedderburn." In their opinion the plain intention of the Act was to enable the Lord Lieutenant from time to time to borrow sums of money, not exceeding 200,000l., to answer present and immediate purposes. 4pp. and2 half pp.
5 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No.3.
1021. Sir George Macartney to Sir Robert Wilmot.
Relative to a mistake in the name of a gentleman set down in the list for a commission.—Dublin Castle. 1 p.
8 Jan.
Channel Islands, v. 42, No. 5 a, b.
1022. P. Æmil. Irving, Lieut.-Governor of Guernsey, to the Earl of Rochford.
Relative to the performance of quarantine. The great and small roads are the usual places for ships to perform quarantine, and the only proper places in Guernsey; but for some years past ships bound to Guernsey, and liable to quarantine, have been ordered to the Mother Bank, or other place in England, which the merchants of the Island considered a distressing hardship. By an Order in Council of 8 Nov. 1771 it is left to the Lieut.-Governor to appoint the place for performing quarantine; and this last regulation seems perfectly agreeable to the gentlemen of Guernsey. The Royal Court has established a quarantine boat in the Island. Encloses their Act relative thereto.—Guernsey.
The Act enclosed, of date 11 July 1747. (French.) 4 pp.
9 Jan.
Channel Islands, v. 61, No. 1.
1023. Mr. Le Mesurier, Governor of Alderney, to the Earl of Rochford.
In answer to letter of 24 Dec. There is no place near Alderney where a ship can perform quarantine with any safety. Has always ordered ships liable to it to the Mother Bank to perform it. But it is more customary for such ships to stop at Falmouth, Plymouth, or Portsmouth, to get their clearances before coming to Alderney. Sark is under the direction of the Lieut.-Governor of Guernsey. There is no place there where a ship can land goods, or perform quarantine, nor any kind of trade whatever carried on.—Alderney. 1 p.
9 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 10, No. 19.
1024. Wm. Tryon, Governor of New York, to the Earl of Hillsborough.
Informing his Lordship of the arrival of Mons. Douchez, a brigadier-general in the Spanish service, at New York, who gave him (the Governor) a detailed narrative of the cause of his being thrown into the British colonies. He had been wrecked on his return from Vera Cruz to Old Spain. He intends to remain in New York till the spring. He is a gentleman of much candour and politeness, and is greatly pleased with the manners of this country. He has been in America near five years, in the character of Inspector General of Cavalry in South America.—New York. 4 pp.
9 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p.321.
1025. Earl of Rochford to Sir Abraham Elton.
Repeating the desire, contained in Mr. Porten's letter of the 3rd, relative to Land and Peyton, as Dudley's trial is likely to come on the day after to-morrow.—St. James's.
9 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No. 4.
1026. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Townshend) to the Earl of Rochford.
In answer to letter of 20 Dec., and particularly as to the division of the Revenue Board.
Since its receipt, has called the King's servants together again upon this point, and they seem at present rather to wish that the arrangement should not take place till after the rising of Parliament. For himself, thinks that the measure most for the dignity of the Crown is the most proper to be pursued, and will have no objection, if it be His Majesty's pleasure, to meet Parliament after the recess, with the measure already accomplished in his hand. Very possibly the Opposition may be able to obtain a majority upon this ground, and perhaps come to some improper resolutions relative thereto; but it will be an occasion in which those who are really friends of His Majesty's Government must show themselves; and the real designs and motives of those who pretend to support Government on certain questions, and desert it upon others, will be ascertained; for when a beneficial measure shall have been approved of and determined by His Majesty, and actually carried into execution, it will be very extraordinary indeed if persons who have received the greatest favours from Government, and profess to give it the firmest support, should again abandon its interests, merely because it seems to clash with their own particular views and connexions. This matter can have little or no effect with regard to the Revenue Bill; for though it is intended to pass that law during this Session, and perhaps to make some amendments to it, yet, in case Government should fail, the present subsisting Bill is in force till the 24th of next June, and to the end of the then next Session of Parliament; and he, the Lord Lieutenant, presumes His Majesty will not let the Session run far into the summer. Besides, if the measure of dividing the Boards be not now adopted, new motions will be made in the House of Commons, in order to inflame the public, and preclude the Crown from carrying it into execution,—not to mention the damp which the failure of it would fling on the minds of those who have deserved so well from Government. Therefore, if, on these reasons, it should be His Majesty's pleasure to adhere to the point, the King's letter for the Excise Board, sent over to have the misnomer corrected, should be returned with directions to pass the patent upon it immediately.
Considering how his expectations, after the very successful Session of last year, and the very favourable opening of the present, have been disappointed by the conduct of gentlemen from whom he had reason to look for the warmest support, he cannot take upon him to say he will be able during the remainder of the Session to parry or defeat every attempt of Opposition. What has been considered, however, as the chief business of the Session is now carried through. His predecessors have been accustomed to some repose after this period. His task has been more severe, for he has been now more than four years endeavouring to establish English Government in Ireland upon the proper footing. Trusts that though the difficulties have been inexpressibly great in laying the foundation, it is such as, if properly pursued and attended to, will stand. Hopes it will appear he has given his principal attention to this great point, regardless of his own ease, and of popular applause, and intent only on His Majesty's service. The Opposition seems to be composed of very discordant materials, the principal persons of it being actuated by different principles and views, agreeing only for the present in their efforts to embarrass English Government in such a manner as to open, by a change of the Chief Governor, a pretence for their own reception. Mr. Ponsonby's weight is almost totally destroyed; and, however he may flatter himself with the present use which men of superior abilities make of him, he has very little authority over his own party, and declines in his credit every day. Concessions to popular opinion are seldom repaid with gratitude, and seem to have been interpreted hitherto as foundations only for further claims. It is alone by a determined resolution of adhering to system, and by constant perseverance on the part of English Government, that its authority and superintendence can be thoroughly maintained and established in Ireland. Were it consistent with his duty to prefer the ease and smoothness of his administration, he might wish no matter whatever to be stirred which could furnish Opposition with the least materials to work upon, so that he might conclude the Session in the usual manner with complimentary addresses to himself from both Houses; but should it ever be necessary to finish the Session without those addresses, no disappointment of that kind can check his readiness to obey His Majesty's commands whenever his service requires it. One word, before concluding, as to Mr. Dyson's pension. The resolution of the House of Commons cannot affect it. It is a grant under His Majesty's Great Seal of Ireland, and can only be determined by the voluntary resignation of Mr. Dyson himself. The pensions are paid upon orders from this Government to the Vice-Treasurers. Will take care that Mr.Dyson's is included in the number ordered to be paid. Is informed, however, that they intend to move a resolution in the House of Commons to forbid the Vice-Treasurers to pay this pension. Will exert every nerve to defeat it. Should they carry such a motion, asks for directions for his conduct.—Dublin Castle.
Received 14th, by Mr. Lee, late at night. 6½ pp.
11 Jan.
Dom. Geo.'III., pcl. 85, No.1.
1027. Mr. Whitehead to—.
Will certainly take care that everything shall be ready at 12 o'clock on Wednesday next for the investiture of the two new knights. Asks that the usual letter may be sent to the Jewel Office for somebody to attend with the ribbons and badges.—Mount Street. 1 p.
13 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 8, No.32.
1028. Php. Stephens to John Pownall, Esq.
Asks him to return original papers sent with the Lords of the Admiralty's letters of 7 Jan. and 2 Oct. last.—Admiralty Office. 1 p.
13 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 9, No.8 a, b.
1029. John Robinson to John Pownall, Esq.
Sends, for the Earl of Hillsborough's information, a report of the Commissioners for the Sale of Lands in the Ceded Islands, dated Dominica, 16 Oct. 1771, stating the means used by them (which have proved ineffectual) to incline the Charibbs to quit possession of certain lands in the Island of St. Vincent, and suggesting several proposals for that purpose.—Treasury Chambers.
The enclosure. The Commissioners met about 40 of the black Charibbs, under the conduct of one named Chetoyé, a person of influence amongst them, and Chief of Grand Sable, the most considerable district, at a place called Morne Garon. The Commissioners proposed their yielding that part of the Island called Morne Garon, extending as far as Point Espagnol at the north end of the Island, a tract containing about 4,000 acres of practicable land, and, as a recompense, offered in His Majesty's name to confirm to them the whole of the land inhabited by them, and the woods adjacent in the district of Morne Espagnol, Robaca, and Grand Sable, promising that it should never be taken from them, and that they should be permitted to sell on obtaining the King's licence. They also offered a present in money of 1,000 "Johnannes's," or thirty six-shilling pieces, to be divided amongst them. These proposals the Charibbs steadily refused, showing a fixed resolution not to consent to our settling any part of the country claimed by them. The Commissioners expressed their astonishment at the refusal of these offers, which they considered advantageous to the Charibbs for reasons which they explain, and ascribe it to the influence of one amongst them, who had been resident in Martinico from his infancy, and had been servant to several French officers. This person spoke for the Charibbs when asked whether they acknowledged themselves subjects to the King of Great Britain, and would take the oath of allegiance; and answered in the negative, affirming their independence of both Great Britain and France, but confessing a great partiality for the French. The Commissioners were convinced that all treaty and negotiation, though on the most just and humane terms, would be fruitless, and advised that steps should be immediately taken to prevent the Charibbs committing outrages unpunished, thinking the sale of the lands no longer the most important object, but the protection of His Majesty's subjects. They recommended that a road should be carried through the country under the protection of a sufficient military force, and, after allotting the Charibbs proper lands for their comfortable subsistence, that the remainder should be sold, the proceeds of which would amply repay any expenses incurred. 6 pp.
13 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v. 9, No.9.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1771–5, p.40.
1030. The Same to the Same.
Relative to the application of George Milligen, Surgeon to all H.M.'s garrisons in South Carolina, for an additional salary out of the quit-rents of that province. The Lords of the Treasury are of opinion that as Mr. Milligen is an Army Surgeon, these quit-rents ought not to be charged on account of that service—Treasury Chambers. 1 p.
13 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 2.
1031. Bishop of Worcester to the Earl of Rochford.
Mr. Philip Duval, one of the Prebendaries of Worcester cathedral, has this morning resigned his canonry, which is therefore legally void, and open to any signification of His Majesty's pleasure.—Brook Street. 1 p.
14 Jan.
Admiralty, pcl. 164, No.20.
1032. Willm. Dalrymple to the Same.
Transmitting three papers, viz., copy of his office to his Excellency the Governor of Cadiz, dated 11th inst., demanding pratic for H.M.'s frigate "Liverpool," that came in that day; of his Excellency's answer to the same; and of his, Dalrymple's, further answer.—Cadiz. 1 p.
There are now no enclosures.
14 Jan.
Admiralty, pcl. 164, No.21.
1033. "J.W." to the Same.
As a report at present prevails that Government intend sending some families to establish a settlement at Falkland Island, asks what encouragement would be given to a gentleman who has lived abroad several years, and been brought regularly up to trade, and his wife, to settle there. 1 p.
15 Jan.
ChannelIslands, v.15, No.34 a, b.
1034. M.Corbet, Lieut.-Governor of Jersey, to Lord—.
In accordance with his letter of the 24th Dec. last, has consulted the capital merchants, &c., who were of opinion that a harbour at St. Aubin, called the Tower, detached from the Island about half a mile, would be the securest place for shipping to perform quarantine. The States, however, were nearly unanimous in thinking that harbour to be by no means a proper place, but subject to certain inconveniences, which may be prevented by the mode proposed in the enclosed Act; with which opinion he, Major Corbet, agrees.—Island of Jersey.
The "Act" enclosed, in which "la Place sous Belle Croute" is recommended, with liberty to ships to perform quarantine there, or in any of the places appointed on the coast of England. [French.] 3 pp. or parts of pp.
15 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771–6, p. 14.
1035. John Pownall to Philip Stephens, Esq.
Enclosing the original papers relative to the collecting of the sixpenny duty in North America for Greenwich Hospital, enclosed in the Lords of the Admiralty's letters to Lord Hillsborough of 7 Jan. and 2 Oct. last.—Whitehall.
16 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No.3.
1036. South Sea Company.
Petition from the South Sea Company to the King, praying His Majesty to continue their Governor. Signed: T. Coventry, Sub-Governor.—South Sea House. 1 p.
17 Jan.
Channel Islands Entry Bk., 1761–98, p.41.
1037. Earl of Rochford to Sir Jeffery Amherst, K.B.
His Majesty, in accordance with his request in the letter of the 16th inst., has granted leave to William Le Marchant, Esq., H.M.'s Bailiff of Guernsey, to come to England on his private affairs, he having sworn two sufficient deputies.
18 Jan.
Admiralty, v. 163, No.52.
1038. Php. Stephens to Richard Sutton, Esq.
Giving an account that 220,000 Mexican dollars, landed from a Spanish frigate at Lisbon, were sent to the French Consul's house, in order to be sent to the Mauritius by a French Frigate, for the payment of the troops.—Admiralty Office. 1 p.
18 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p. 324.
1039. Earl of Rochford to the Sub-Governor and Deputy Governor of the South Sea Company.
The King has consented to grant the request of the South Sea Company in General Court assembled, that he should continue their Governor.—St. James's.
20 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 4 a, b.
1040. "List of Lords of Parliament summoned to meet at Lord "Rochford's in Berkeley Square, the 20th Jany. 1772." And "List of the Lords who were present at Lord Rochford's house "to hear the King's speech read, on Monday evening, 20th Ja"nuary 1772." 4pp.
20 Jan.
Dom.Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched,"1771–6, p.14.
1041. J. Pownall to John Robinson, Esq.
Enclosing, for the information of the Lords of the Treasury, a copy of a letter of 31 Aug. last, from Peter Chester, Esq., Governor of West Florida, representing that, as considerable sums are due to the Crown for quit-rents in that province, he had appointed Mr. Philip Livingston, junior, Receiver General thereof.—Whitehall.
21 Jan.
Circular Bk., 1761–86, p.89.
1042. Circular.
Enclosing the King's speech at the opening of Parliament Sent to:—
Lord Harcourt, Lord Grantham, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Mr. Murray, General Cornwallis, Sir John Hort, Colonel Blaquiere, Hon. Mr. Robinson, Hon. Mr. Walpole, Sir Horace Mann, Capt. Frazer, Mr. Taverner, Mr. Cooke, General Mostyn, Sir P. Dennis, Consul General Monro; Messrs. Murray, Preston, Norton, Whitehead, and Dalrymple; Consul Jamineau, Sir Jno. Dick, Sir Jas. Wright; and Messrs. Holford, Sargint, Bomeester, Marsh, Beawes, Udny, Whitham, Wilkie, Sampson, Traill, Banks, Miller, Davison, Fraser, and Barker.
21 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v.8, No. 33 a, b.
1043. Mr. Stephens to Mr. Pownall.
Sends, for Lord Hillsborough's information, a list of the squadron in North America under the command of Rear-Admiral Montagu, with their destination.—Admiralty Office.
The list enclosed. 3 pp.
21 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v.8, No. 34 a, b.
1044. Lord Sandwich to Lord Hillsborough.
Sends a letter from Mr. Gambier relative to the appointment of a proper person to take care of the lighthouse at Halifax, &c.
Mr. Gambier's letter, dated from Orchard Street, Portman Square. He recommends either Mr. Gewish, Naval Storekeeper at Halifax, or Mr. Henry Newton, Collector of the Customs there. 4½ pp.
21 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 6.
1045. Address from the House of Lords in answer to His Majesty's speech from the Throne. 2¼ pp.
22 Jan.
Channel Islands, v. 15, No. 35.
1046. M. Corbet, Lieut.-Governor of Jersey, to the Secretary of State for the South Department.
At a meeting of the States of the Island, the 9th of October last, on proposals made by the King's Procureur, the Act No. 1 enclosed was voted and passed into law. But in consequence of a petition presented and read by the Procureur the 17th of the same month, after many debates, it was, by a majority of one, voted that the alterations in Act No. 2 should be made; the States then seeming very clear in their authority, and the King's Procureur supporting that opinion, the King's Advocate being absent. Unacquainted with the consequences of trade, and circumstanced as the country is at present, it was not prudent for him, the Lieut.-Governor, to interfere; nor, at any rate, could he use his negative (until the King's pleasure was known) in opposition to any Act, before he was armed with the authentic abstract of charters and privileges, till now always given to Governors upon their admission as a guide for their proceedings, but which having been mislaid, and there being no authentic records but in private hands, he has not yet been able to get. The originals are in the Tower.
On the 14th inst. a petition that had been lodged au greffe the 15th November by the King's Advocate, was taken into consideration, and the Act No. 3 determined upon, notwithstanding the arguments then used by the Advocate and other gentlemen, members of the States, (who upon the former occasion were not in in the Island,) in support of the petition, alleging that by the 19th article of King Henry the Seventh's charter, confirmed by His present Majesty, the States cannot take on themselves that authority, being directly contrary to the words of the charter; and therefore prayed that the said petition (copy enclosed, No. 8) might be attended to in every particular.
This difference between the two King's officers, and arguments not used before, as that every Act so visibly contrary to the King's commands could not be valid, obliged him to desire that the charter might, if possible, be produced; but such record, being only in the hands of individuals, could not then be produced. He was therefore obliged to ask the States to state whether (notwithstanding what the King's Advocate and some other gentlemen had advanced) they still were of opinion that such duties could be imposed by the States without infringing on the charters and privileges of the Island. Some joined the Advocate, others thought they had such a right, and others, having never seen the charter or privileges, could only act from a supposition. This unsatisfactory opinion, and the intimation by the King's Advocate that the petitioners would not rest satisfied without representing it to superior authority, induced him to write an official letter to the King's officers; a copy of which, with their answer by way of opinion, is enclosed. They both think that if he, the Lieut.Governor, had been armed with the authentic charters and privileges, he would have been well warranted in using his negative. The Procureur says that although his opinion is favourable to the power of the States, yet, as it seems to admit of a doubt, he would be glad to have it explained. Begs therefore to lay the same before His Majesty in Council, in order to remove displeasing circumstances from the people's doubts as to the legality of the States' authority in the taxation or imposition of duties, &c., otherwise than through the channel prescribed by His Majesty.—Jersey.
"N.B.—The inclosures sent to the Lord President, 21st."
A list on the back of the letter gives the following:—
No. 1, 2, 3. Acts of the State.
"     4. The Lieut.-Governor to the King's officers.
"     5. The Lieut.-Governor's opinion in the matter.
"     6. The King's Procureur's opinion.
"     7. The King's Advocate's opinion.
"     8. The petition referred to by the Advocate.
"     9. The Governor's oath.
"     10. Abstract of an Order in Council relating to the Governor's negative and the power of the States.
"     11. Article of King Henry the Seventh's charter limiting the power of the States. 3 pp.
22 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., v.8, No. 13.
Let. Bk., Sec.'s, 1771–5, p.47.
1047. Lieut.-General H. S. Conway to Earl of Hillsborough.
On the subject of the works going on at St. John's, in N[ew] F[ound] Land.—Little Warwick Street. 3 pp.
22 Jan.
Ireland. v. 441, No.5.
1048. Earl of Rochford to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
In reply to letter of the 9th inst. Assures him of His Majesty's sense of the repeated proofs he has given of his zeal for the support of his dignity, &c. For the reasons judiciously stated by him, His Majesty permits him to proceed to the division of the Revenue Boards as soon as he shall think proper. The account given of the composition and state of the Opposition seems to promise success for the measures of Government; but if it should happen otherwise, justice will always be done to his Excellency's intentions; and the distinction which must appear of those to be depended on as real friends of Government from those ready to abandon its interests as soon as they clash with their private views and connections, will be useful for the conduct of His Majesty's business. In regard to Mr. Dyson's pension, he is to use every means to defeat the efforts of Opposition; also to explain, as an assistance to the King's servants, his own ideas on the directions he wishes to receive in case of a resolution to forbid the ViceTreasurers paying the pension being carried.
P.S.—Lord North has sent the King's letter for the Excise Board, which is enclosed.—St. James's. A draft. 2¾ pp.
22 Jan.
Treas. Entry Bk., 1763–75, p. 288.
1049. R. Sutton to John Robinson, Esq.
Sending an extract from a letter from the Lieut.-Governor of Jersey, to be laid before the Lords of the Treasury, in order to an answer being given to it.—St. James's.
23 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p. 325.
1050. Earl of Rochford to Mr. Purling.
Asking him to take measures for the discharge of a first lieutenant of a Dutch man-of-war, the son of Mons. de Casemboot, a Major-General in the Dutch service, who in a fit of despair engaged himself in October last as a soldier in the service of the East India Company, under the name of James Maxwell, born at St. Andrew's, in Scotland.—St. James's.
24 Jan.
Admiralty, v. 163, No. 53 a, b.
1051. Lords of the Admiralty to the Earl of Rochford.
Send an extract from a letter from Sir Peter Denis, Commanderin-chief of H.M.'s ships, &c. in the Mediterranean, dated at Mahon, the 25th of last month, relative to the sending of the ships of his squadron to Cadiz.
The extract enclosed. He acknowledges the receipt of the Lords of the Admiralty's order not to send any of the ships under his command into Cadiz, and will not do so, unless by notice from H.M.'s Consuls there. 2 pp.
(fn. 1) 24 Jan.
Admiralty Entry Bk., 1766–84, p. 93.
1052. R. Sutton to Philip Stephens, Esq.
The trial of Joshua Dudley for his scandalous imposture in the pretended discovery of the authors of the fire at Portsmouth Dock is expected to come on upon Friday next, the 10th inst. Asks that two intelligent persons, who can give evidence of the fact, with the time and circumstances of it, may be ordered to come up from Portsmouth to be examined as witnesses.—St. James's.
24 Jan.
Circular Bk., 1761–86, p. 90.
1053. Circular.
Enclosing the addresses of the Lords and Commons, which passed in both Houses without the least debate, "a circumstance scarce ever remembered." Sent to Earl Harcourt, Lord Grantham, Sir Horace Mann, the Hon. Mr. Walpole, Sir James Wright, and Messrs. Preston, Cooke, and Catt.
24 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 7.
1054. British Museum.
Memorandum of the resolution of the Committee of the Trustees of the British Museum, signed "C. Morton, S.B.M.," acknowledging and returning thanks for the printed copy of the Journals of the Lords and Commons, with the Indexes and Reports, received from His Majesty. 1 p.
27 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No. 11.
1055. Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (Townshend) to the Earl of Rochford.
Enclosing papers, &c. relative to a demand from several noncommissioned officers and private men of H.M.'s 62nd Regt. upon their Colonel, Lieut.-Gen. Strode, for their clothing for the years 1767, 1768, and 1769. The matter was referred to a Board of General Officers for report thereon. Gives their opinion in detail of the satisfaction which should be immediately made by Lieut.Gen. Strode. It appears from this report that there has been clothing due to this regiment for some years past. It also appears from the returns that there has been more desertion in this regiment than in any other on his establishment, although the regiment is in other respects a very good one, and the Field Officers seem to have done their duty well.—Dublin Castle.
On the back is:—" 15 inclosures wch were sent in original to Judge Advocate, Mch 1772."
Received 8th Feb., from Sir R. Wilmot. 4½ pp.
27 Jan.
Scotland, v. 47, No. 26.
1056. General Jas. Adolphus Oughton to Lord —.
Acknowledging, in the absence of the Duke of Argyll, the letter of the 21st, covering H.M.'s speech, &c.—Edinburgh. 1 p.
28 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 8.
1057. Justices Wilmot, Digby, and Camper to the Earl of Rochford.
Two men have in the course of last week been accidentally killed, and others received damage, by their horses taking fright as they were riding along the highway, occasioned by journeymen, labourers, and apprentices shooting about the highways, fields, and hedges near town in the frost. To remedy this, have looked into the several Statutes, but can only find an Act of Parliament of 33 Hen. 8, enacting that no person, except he had lands, tenements, fees, annuities, or offices of the yearly value of 100l., should shoot in any hand-gun other than such as should be in the stock and gun of the length of one whole yard; but as the guns now made use of exceed one yard, such journeymen, labourers, and apprentices cannot be convicted on that Statute. Suggest a clause to be inserted in some Public Act—Public Office, Bethnal Green. 1⅓ pp.
28 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No. 13.
1058. Thos. Waite to R. Sutton, Esq.
Acknowledging receipt of letter of 21st inst., with a printed copy of the King's speech at the opening of Parliament.—Dublin Castle. 1 p.
28 Jan.
Law Officers Entry Bk., 1762–95, p. 193.
1059. Earl of Rochford to the Attorney and Solicitor General.
Sending papers relative to certain new regulations, represented by Lieut.-Gen. Cornwallis to be necessary to be added to those formerly approved, with regard to the houses in Gibraltar holden under grants from the Governors, and to the safety of that garrison from spies or suspicious persons residing there. Asks for their opinion as to the lawfulness or expediency of enforcing these new regulations.—St. James's.
29 Jan.
Church Bk., 1729–82, p. 321.
Church Bk., 1761–78, p. 220.
1060. Poor Knights of Windsor.
Mem. "His Majesty was pleased to acquaint the Earl of Rochford with his pleasure that the Secretaries of State for the time being should not henceforward direct any persons to be put on the list of the Poor Knights of Windsor without first taking the King's pleasure; and that after His Majesty shall have approved of any person, it should be notified in the letter that such person so appointed must attend, after his installation, to every regulation of the institution of that Order.
"That the Secretaries of State for the time being should not henceforward grant any dispensations of non-attendance without "first taking the King's pleasure thereon."
30 Jan.
Admiralty, pcl. 164, No. 22.
1061. Jurats of Mahon (Pedro Ximenez, Gabriel Carreras, and Marcho Pons) to Major General Johnston, Lieut.-Governor of Minorca.
Praying his interposition with His Majesty for the confirmation of the articles for the good government of the people, which they presented to his Excellency the 3rd July 1770.—Mahon. Spanish. 1 p.
General Johnston was at this time in London, residing in Green Street, Grosvenor Square.
30 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p. 327.
1062. Earl of Rochford to the Bishop of Exeter.
His Majesty considers it necessary to the support of the institution with decency that at least one-third of the 18 Poor Knights should be constantly resident at Windsor, and appear regularly in the choir at divine service; the remaining 12, on whatever excuse absent, to have 10l. stopped out of their yearly pay, to be divided among the six who reside, as a recompense for their attendance; allowing, however, a proportionable deduction for any part of the time which any of the said 12 may attend. Asks if his Lordship sees any objection to the arrangement.—St. James's.
30 Jan.
Ireland, v. 441, No. 7.
1063. The Same to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
Drafts of two letters of this date:—
(1.) Relative to the two Bills remaining, yesterday taken into consideration at the Council. His Excellency's idea of restraining the grants for particular Irish purposes to the same bounds as set to the subsidies granted to His Majesty was entirely approved as fit to be adopted as a rule, unless there should be any particular reason to deviate from it. Asks for his sentiments on a very striking novelty in the Inland Navigation Bill, viz., the clause empowering the trustees to transfer the property of any navigation which might be too expensive to be completed at the public charge alone, to any company of private undertakers on certain conditions; also, if it should be a real benefit to the kingdom to allow navigations to be undertaken by private companies, whether the intention may not be rendered ineffectual by the shortness of the term of two years.—St. James's. 2¾ pp.
Ibid., No. 8. (2.) Signifying the King's inclination that the Count de Kearney, in the service of France, but born in Ireland, should remain unmolested, as far as immediately depends on the orders of Government, during a six months' visit to Ireland, where he has not been since his childhood.—St. James's. "Private." 1 p.
31 Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pck. 85, No. 5.
1064. W. Justice to the Earl of Rochford.
In looking over his father's papers, finds, when his Lordship was at Turin, that he honoured his father with a subscription to his great and laborious undertaking of a new edition of Virgil, all engraved with copper plates. This being finished, will early next week send a complete set in 5 vols., large 8vo, to Mr. John Hyde, in Cornhill, to whom his Lordship will be pleased to pay three guineas, the subscription being four guineas, supposing one to have been already paid. By the enclosed letters it will be seen what good opinion my Lord Chesterfield has of this work, and how much (if it was in his power) he is inclined to assist and favour him (Mr. Justice), the finisher thereof. The plates of this work are now "laying" in Holland, but deserve to be in a much better country. May he presume to wish for an order (if it is not an improper request) for their introduction into this country, where they would certainly be the cause of employing many hands, and, of course, give bread to his fellow countrymen.—Wymondham. 1p.
31 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., v. 25, p. 328.
1065. Earl of Rochford to the Commissioners for Trade and Plantations.
Sending, for report to be made thereon, a copy of a memorial from the French Ministry, complaining of the disturbance threatened to be given to their fishermen at the Island of St. Pierre by H.M.'s Governor of Newfoundland.—St. James's.
31 Jan.
Dom. Entry Bk., "Dom. despatched," 1771-6, p. 15.
1066. Wm. Knox to Mr. Robinson.
Sending, in order to be laid before the Lords of the Treasury, a copy of a letter from Wm. Tryon, Esq., Governor of New York, dated 4 Dec. last, enclosing an account of seizures made by shipsof-war in the port of New York; and stating a plea, on behalf of himself and the other Governors of H.M.'s Colonies in America, to a like share of His Majesty's moiety of all seizures made in the American seas or ports by ships-of-war, with that given by His Majesty to the Admiral or Flag Officer on that station.—Whitehall.
Jan.
Dom. Geo. III., pcl. 85, No. 9.
1067. "Memorial of the manufacturers and merchants trading " in cotton goods, residing at Manchester, Blackburn, Bolton, and elsewhere in the country of Lancaster," addressed to Lord Rochford.
Representing the losses, &c. likely to arise by the Ordinance of 19 Nov. 1771, prohibiting the importation of cotton goods into Spain; suggesting that such prohibition was in contravention of the 7th article of the Treaty of Madrid, 1667, and praying for assistance and relief. Numerous signatures are appended. On the dorse is: "R. Jan. 1772, from Lord Sefton." 2pp. brief size.
Jan.
Dom. Geo. III. pcl. 85, No. 10.
1068. Staffordshire Ware.
Memorandum. "The Staffordshire people complain that our " earthenware is prohibited in France, and 18d. in the pound for " all French earthenware imported here. Lord Rochford to pro" pose to the French if they will take off the prohibition; if not, " we will prohibit theirs." ½ p.

Footnotes

  • 1. 1771 in orig., but a mistake.