I. F.
d. i
Vol. ?
Govc.
CALENDAR
OF
STATE PAPERS,
COLONIAL SERIES,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES,
16751676,
ALSO
ADDENDA,
15741674,
PRESERVED IN THE
PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE.
EDITED BY
W. NOEL SAINSBURY,
LATE
AN ASSISTANT KEEl'ER OF THE PU1JLIC RECORDS,
HONORAKY MKMIiEH OV THK AMERICAN ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY, AND OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETIES
OF MASSACHUSETTS, MAIMK, NEW HAMl'SHIRE, NEW YOBK, MARYLAND, I'ENNSYLVANIA,
CAROLINA, GEORGIA, VIKCINIA, &C.,
UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE MASTER Ol' 1 THE ROLLS, AND WITH THE SANCTION
OF HER MAJESTY'S SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIAL DEPARTMENT.
First published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office
London
1893
REPRINTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH
HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE, LONDON, BY
KRAUS REPRINT LTD.
VADUZ
1964
CALENDAR
OF
STATE PAPERS,
COLONIAL SERIES,
AMEKICA AND WEST INDIES.
1675-1676,
ALSO
ADDENDA,
15741674,
PRESERVED IN THE
PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE.
EDITED BY
W. NOEL SAINSBURY,
LATE
AN ASSISTANT KEEPER OF THE PU15LIC RECORDS,
HONOKAHY MEMIlElt OV TI1K AMKKICAN AMIIJIUKIAN SOCIETY, AND OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETIES
OF MASSACHUSETTS, MAIM., NEW IIAMI'SHIUE, NKW YOBK, MAltYLAMD, PENNSYLVANIA,
(JAKOJ-INA, UEOJKilA, VIU<iINIA, &C.,
UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE MASTER OV THE ROLLS, AND WITH THE SANCTION
OP HER MAJESTY'S SECRETARY OP STATE FOR THE COLONIAL DEPARTMENT.
First published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office
London
1893
REPRINTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH
HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE, LONDON, BY
KRAUS REPRINT LTD.
VADUZ
1964
'^v.- -
Printed in the United States of America
CONTENTS OF PREFACE.
Page.
SIR HUMPHREY GYLBERTE; HIS FIRST VOYAGE; HIS SERVICES IN IRELAND - vi
His ASSOCIATES SIR PHILIP SYDNEY AND OTHERS - - - vit
HlS LAST VOYAGE ; QUEEN ELIZABETH'S PROPHETIC INSTINCT
SIR WALTER RALEIGH ; RALPH LANE'S VOYAGE TO VIRGINIA - viii
RICHARD HAKLUYT, AMBASSADOR IN PARIS - ix
PROPOSES LECTURES FOR THE ART OF NAVIGATION -
SAMUEL PURCHAS SIR FRANCIS DRAKE. SIR JOHN HAWKINS - x
VIRGINIA; SIR THOMAS GATES, GOVERNOR; HIS SERVICES AND DEATH - xii
SIR THOMAS DALE, TWICE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA, AND PRINCE HENRY xiv
HlS SERVICES IN THREE QUARTERS OF THE GLOBE - XV
SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR A SCHOOL IN VIRGINIA -,
JEALOUSY OF SPAIN OF THE VIRGINIA COLONY - - xvi
OUR AMBASSADOR'S ANSWER TO COMPLAINTS FROM FRANCE - xvii
SIR FERDINANDO GORGES ; CAPTAIN CHALONER AND THE SHIP " RICHARD" - xviii
CAPTAIN ARGOLL ; ADMIRAL DE MONTMORENCY; MARQUISE DE GUERCHEVILLE
WALLOONS AND FRENCH TO SETTLE IN VIRGINIA ... vj x
SIR WILLIAM BERKELEY, 35 YEARS GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA - ,,
THE KING'S LETTER OF RECALL - - - xx
BACON'S REBELLION IN VIRGINIA - XX i
THE KING'S PROCLAMATION FOR SUPPRESSING IT - xxii
REWARD FOR BACON'S APPREHENSION ; HIS DEATH - xxiii
GENERAL RISING OF THE INDIANS ; ACCOUNT OF THE INSURRECTION - ,,
THE NORTHERN COLONIES WILL NOT RECOVER IN 20 YEARS - xxviii
LEADING MEN IN NEW ENGLAND; ACCOUNT OF NEW ENGLAND - -
RHODE ISLAND; CONNECTICUT; MASSACHUSETTS; MAINE AND NEW HAMPSHIRE xxix
CAROLINA; THE EARL OF SHAFTESBURY'S LETTERS; JOHN LOCKE - - xxx
A COLONY OF QUAKERS - - xxxi
SUPPLIES AND DISSATISFACTION OF TIIK LORDS PROPRIETORS - -
SETH SOTHELL ; ASHLEY RIVER ; ALBEMARLE - - xxxii.
MARYLAND; THE ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY - xxxiii
NEW YORK ; COLONEL LOVELACE COMMITTED TO THE TOWER -
MAJOR ANDROS, GOVERNOR; THE DUKK OF YORK AND AN ASSEMBLY - xxxv
NEWFOUNDLAND; STATISTICS OF THE FISHERY -
THE SETTLEMENT TO BK ABANDONED - - xxxvi
JAMAICA ; ENGLAND TAKES POSSESSION - - xxxvii
GENERALS PENN AND VENABLES COMMITTED TO THE TOWER - Nxxviii
CROMWELL'S PROCLAMATION TO ENCOURAGE THE SETTLEMENT OF JAMAICA - xxxix
y 72843. Wt. 76W. & 2
IV CONTENTS OF PREFACE.
Page.
JAMAICA; SICKNESS AND MORTALITY IN THE ARMY - - - xl
ENERGETIC MEASURES FOB RELIEF - - xli
NUMBERS OF PEOPLE GOING TO SETTLE IN JAMAICA -
CHANGES THROUGH CROMWELL'S DEATH - - xlii
LORD VAUHGAN, THE KING'S GOVERNOR OF JAMAICA - -
BARBADOES; SIR JONATHAN ATKINS, GOVERNOR - - - xliv
TBRRIBLE HURRICANE; INHABITANTS -
GOVERNOR ATKINS AND FREE TRADE - .... x i v
THE KING'S LETTER OF CENSURE - .... xlvii
LEEWARD ISLANDS ; GOVERNOR SIR WILLIAM STAPLETON ... xlviii
SIR CHARLES WHELER AND THE RESTITUTION OF ST. CHRISTOPHER'S -
COLONEL PHILIP" WARNER; HIS MASSACRE OF INDIANS - - xlix
KING CHARLES II.'s REMARKABLE LETTER - li
COLONKL WARNER COMMITTED TO THE TOWER -
SENT TO BARBADOES ; HIS TRIAL AND ACQUITTAL - - lii
COMMENTS OF GOVERNORS ATKINS AND STAPLETON - - - liii
COLONEL WARNER DISMISSED THE KING'S SERVICE -
SURRENDER OF SCRINAM TO THE DUTCH - - - - liv
ENGLISH INHABITANTS TRANSPORTED TO JAMAICA - - - -
ROYAL AFRICAN COMPANY ; NEGROES SHIPPED AND SOLD ; THEIR PRICE - Iv
REBELLION OF NEGROES IN JAMAICA AND BARBADOES - - Ivi
REWARDS FOR TAKING AND K-LLING NKGROES - s Ivii
CHRISTENING OF NEGROES ; THEIR ADMISSION TO QUAKERS' MEETINGS . Iviii
PREFACE.
A LARGE portion of this volume is taken np with an
addenda from 1574 to 1674, the period comprised in the
three preceding volumes of this Calendar of Colonial State
Papers, America and West Indies, the remainder of the
abstracts being in continuation and completing this series
down to the end of the year 1676. Some years have
elapsed since the publication of the first volume, and
during that time many Colonial records have been brought
together from various sources which had been overlooked
or misplaced, but we believe that every Colonial Record
between 1574 and 1674 to be found in the Public Becord
Office is now abstracted, including all the early patents
granted to Sir Humphrey G-ylberte, " Walter Raleigh,
Esq.," and others, as well as the several articles of agree-
ment with Sir Philip Sydney, Sir George Peckham, Sir
Richard Grenville, Sir Thomas Gerard, and their associates
Some of these are printed in Hakluyt, but have now been
calendared to make this series of Colonial Papers as com-
plete as possible. It was after the publication of the first
volume that the late Earl of Derby wrote : " May I suggest
" that the circumstance of a narrative having appeared
" in Hakluyt' s collection does not seem sufficient reason
" why it should be excluded from yours. Hakluyt, though
" not a scarce, is an old and inconvenient book, seldom
" read or referred to, I should imagine, except for some
" special purpose. Your series of documents ought to be
" complete in itself. 1 ' With this view the foreign corre-
spondence in the Public Record Office has also been
carefully examined with a satisfactory result, as the
PREFACE.
Sir
Humphrey
Gvlbertoj
his first
voyage.
additional matter calendared from that series of State
Papers will clearly show.
The first abstract is a petition of divers gentlemen
of the west parts of England to the Queen " for a new
navigation " to be undertaken by Sir Humphrey Gylberte
and others, and on the same day, 22nd March 1574, they
beseech Lord High Admiral Lincoln to take their sup-
plication into his protection and commend it to Her
Majesty (1, 2). Four years later Queen Elizabeth granted
Letters Patent to Sir Humphrey Gylberte, and to his
heirs and assigns (3), and then Sir Humphrey set to work
to carry into effect his intended voyage. His letters to
Secretary Sir Francis Walsyngham, " the pillar unto whom
I lean," furnish details of the obstacles and difficulties to
be overcome, and also " the causes of Mr. Knowles for-
saking the voyage," which are signed by Hawkins, Raleigh,
Miles Morgan, and others. We have also the names of
the ships, officers, and gentlemen, and the number of
soldiers and mariners gone in the voyage (4-8). On
Gylberte's return from this disastrous voyage he was em-
His services ployed by Queen Elizabeth to quell a rebellion in Ireland,
which, Raleigh reminded Secretary "Walsyngham two
years later, Gylberte ended in two months (11). " Would
" to God (he wrote) the service of Sir Humphrey Gylberte
" might be rightly looked into .... I never heard
" nor read of any man more feared than he is amongst
" the Irish nation, and I do assuredly know that the best
" about the Earl of Desmond, yea, and all the unbridled
" traitors of these parts, would come in to him and yield
" themselves to the Queen's mercy, were it but known
" that he were come amongst them. The end shall prove
" this to be true." In 1581, Gylberte was in " great
extremity " for the arrears clue to him for his services
when he wrote a pitiful letter to Secretary Walsyngham :
PREFACE. Vil
" A miserable tiling it is that I, a poor man, having served
" Her Majesty in wars and peace about soven-and-twenty
" years., should be now subject to daily arrests, executions,
" and outlawries, yea, and forced to gage and sell my
" wife's clothes from her back, who brought me so good
" a living" (12). After this we find him preparing for
his last fatal voyage. All the Articles of Agreement
between Gylberte and his associates are entered on the His A - sso '
elates
Close Rolls and calendared (14-22, 27-29), as well as the Sir Philip
. . , , . Sydney and
details in connection with this voyage, and " the names others ;
" and surnames of such persons with their several sums
" of money and commodities adventured" (pp. 15-17). hls last
voyage.
From Gylberte's last letter to Secretary Walsyngham,
dated from Redcross Street (21), shortly before he sailed
in 1583. Queen Elizabeth seems to have had a prophetic Queen
Elizabeth's
instinct about the safety of Sir Humphrey. " Her Majesty prophetic
11 of her special care had of his well-doing and prosperous
" success wished his stay at home from the personal execution
" of his intended discovery, as a man noted of no good hap
" by sea." But Gylberte did his best to overcome and
satisfy all objections. First he describes the reasons for
his delay, " The outrage of this winter hath been a common
" hindrance to all men of this realm southward bound,
" ships driven from the Azores to this coast without
" spreading a sail, a thing never heard of before, so [it was]
" impossible for him to have performed his journey this
" winter." And then he goes on to say, " If the doubt
" be my want of skill to execute the same I will offer
" myself to be opposed by all the best navigators and
" cosmographers within this realm. If it be cowardice,
" I see no other purgation thereof than my former service
" to Her Majesty. If it be the suspicion of daintiness of
" diet or sea-sickness, in those both I will yield myself
" second to no man living, because that comparison is
V1H PREFACE.
" rather of hardness of body than a boast of virtue." And
finally he trusts Her Majesty with her favour, for his 28
years' service to allow him to get his living as well as
he may honestly, " which is every subject's right," and not
to constrain him bv idle abode at home to beer his bread
J o
with his wife and children. Before sailing he purchased
of Lord Cheney the manor of Minster, in the Isle of
Sheppey, " the only stay left her to live by in her husband's
absence " (21) ; and this letter is the last we hear of the
ill-fated Sir Humphrey Gylberte, Two years later, in June
1585, Sir Walter Raleigh procured a grant from the Queen
of lands in Kent to the Lady Anne Gylberte (39).
Sir Walter Raleigh's patent and other documents which are
printed have been collated with Hakluy t, but the variations
are neither numerous nor important (32) . Gylberte' s patent
is enrolled on the patent roll of 21st Elizabeth, although it
passed the great seal the 20th of Elizabeth. It is the only
patent on this roll which has the regnal year, though
the concluding words, " Anno Domini, 1578," printed in
Hakluy t, are not on the patent roll (3). Within a year
of the date of his patent Raleigh had made all the
arrangements necessary for setting forth his voyage.
Early in February 1585 he obtained Queen Elizabeth's
Lane's warrant to the Lord Deputy of Ireland for Ralph Lane,
Voyage to
Virginia. one of the Queen's equerries, to appoint a substitute for
his government of Kerry and Clanmorris, " forasmuch as
1 we have occasion to employ him presently in other our
' service of importance," which was " graciously given
1 him by Her Majesty in consideration of his ready
" undertaking the voyage to Virginia for Sir Walter
" Raleigh at Her Majesty's command " (36). There are
several letters from Ralph Lane in the first volume of this
Calendar from Port Ferdinando, Virginia, in August and
September 1585.
PREFACE. IX
Richard Hakluyt, " Preacher," the third name on the Richard
Virginia Patent of 1606, was about this time chaplain to
Sir Edward Stafford, the English Ambassador in Paris,
and his letters to Secretary Walsyngham (31, 35, 37) are
evidence of the warm interest he took in these voyages of
discovery, and the efforts he made to push them forward,
" because I know that this present enterprise is like soon
" to wax cold and fall to the ground, unless in this second
" voyage all diligence in searching out every hope of gain
" be used .... For mine own part I am most willing
" to go now in the same this present setting forth, and in
" the service of God and my country to employ all my
" ample observations, reading, and conference whatsoever."
And because the time is exceeding short, he desires
Walsyngham's answer " upon sight whereof, with wings
of Pegasus, I would soon fly into England" (31). In
another letter Hakluyt solicits Walsyngham again and Proposes
again for the erection of a lecture for the Art of Navi- f or t h e
gation, about which he had speech with Sir Francis Drake j^vi ation
and others, and he recommends that Her Majesty^ be
induced to erect such a lecture in Oxford and in London,
allowing to each 50Z. yearly. " In my simple judgment it
" would be the best 100L bestowed these five hundred
" years in England " (35). Hakluyt was careful to
advertise Raleigh from time to time, and to send him
discourses concerning his voyage, which " doth much
vex the Spaniards " (37). "The twenty several titles or
" heads of chapters contained in the book of Sir Walter
" Raleigh's voyage " Hakluyt presented to Secretary
Walsyngham " written all with my hand," who hath very
earnestly oftentimes writ for it, and so hath the Earl of
Leicester, but as yet this is the first (42). This is pro-
bably " Hakluyt' s relation of the West Indies," purchased
by the Lords of Trade and Plantations in 1676 for 10$,
(983).
PREFACE.
Samuel
Purchas.
Sir Francis
Drake.
Sir John
Hawkins.
There is only one reference in this volume to Purchas,
or rather to a continuation of his history. At a meeting
of a Committee of Trade and Plantations, in February
1676, it was resolved by their Lordships to consider of a
method of having journals from all merchants ships going
long voyages, and they proposed a continuation of Purchas'
History with relation to His Majesty's plantations, and for
finding out a fit person for this undertaking (445) .
There are several references to Sir Francis Drake. In a
private letter to an English merchant, we have a graphic
account of the taking of San Domingo early in 1586. The
captain of a ship of Newhaven said that Drake had left
on 22nd January " with all the riches of the island.*' He
captured five great galleons and great provision of oil,
wine, and rice, with 350 brass pieces, powder and shot.
He took away with him 1,200 English, French, Flemings,
and Provincials out of prison, besides 800 of the country
captives. " The manner of the taking of the island," sent
to the Lord Admiral, was in this wise. It seems Sir
Francis played with the Spaniards three days, making
many false alarms as though he would have landed, and
so wearied and tired them. Then very secretly he landed
800 men in most warlike order a league or two off, and in
the meantime his ships " gave a whole charge," whereupon
the enemy issued out of the town to defend the landing,
when the 800 men cutting between the enemy and the
town, upon their backs, striking up their drums and dis-
playing ensigns, so amazed them that they were scattered,
killed, and spoiled, very nearly 10,000 (41). In April 1596
William Stallenge wrote to Sir Robert Cecil that he was
very sorry to communicate such unpleasant news, yet
thought it his duty to send him the enclosed journal of the
[last] voyage of Sir Francis Drake and Sir John Hawkins,
by Captain Troughton. From this journal we learn that
PREFACE. XI
the fleet sailed from Plymouth on 28th August 1595, but
when they reached the coast of Spain " many unkind
" speeches passed with our Generals, such as Sir John
" Hawkins never put off till death." First, there was a
consultation as to taking the Grand Canaries, Sir Francis
being in favour of the design, Sir John against it, but at
the earnest request of some of his friends was content to
assist, yet in his judgment it was labour lost. They
anchored on 26th September before the fort, but after
some show of resistance Sir Thomas Baskerville made his
retreat without putting foot on land. Arrived at Dominica
28th October, two days afterwards they anchored at
Guadaloupe.
On 31st October Sir John Hawkins, " not able to bear
his griefs out longer, sickened." On 4th November
they anchored " among " the Virgin Islands ; and on 12th
November at Porto Rico, where Sir Nicholas Clifford was
killed by a shot, and on this day died Sir John Hawkins,
" whose death of many was much lamented."* On 2nd * Sic.
December Rio del Hacha was taken where great store of
pearls, plate, jewels, and ryals, silk, rich apparel, and
" much other luggage " was found, and the town burnt.
Great store of gold, silver, and jewels was also taken at
Nombre de Dios. On 29th December they " took the
journey for Panama, now the mark of our voyage," but
impeded by Spaniards and negroes retreated to the ships.
On 28th January 1596 they came to Puerto Bello, and
'* this morning died our General Sir Francis Drake." Ten
days later Sir Thomas Baskerville, " taking upon him
General," set sail homewards. On their way they descried
20 of the King of Spain's war ships " waiting our home
coming." It was Captain Troughton's fortune to take the
Vice Admiral, " one of the twelve Apostles of the King."
He left Sir Thomas Baskorville in a storm on 14th March
ill PREFACE.
(46, 46 i.). Bio del Hacha was again sacked and burnt by
the English 60 years later (260).
The letters of Cromwell's sea captains and officers in
this addenda show that the spirit of the Elizabethan age
which dominated Drake, Hawkins, and others of Queen
Elizabeth's naval Commanders was much the same in the
latter period of the Interregnum, the contract being that
the seamen and soldiers should have half of what they
took. But Major Sedgwick was " strongly opposed to
" thig kind of marooning, cruising, plundering, and
" burning of towns, though, as he said, it hath long
" been practised in these parts, yet is not honourable for
11 a princely navy " (236).
Virginia. Both the Virginia Patents of 1606 and 1609 will be
found very fully abstracted (48, 49) In the earlier patent
the first four names are Sir Thomas Gates, Sir George
Somers, Richard Hakluyt, and Edward Maria Wingfield.
The last was President of the Council of Virginia in
Sir Thomas 1607, Sir Thomas Gates went out as Governor with Sir
Gates,
Governor. George Somers in 1610, and his letter to Lord Treasurer
Salisbury in the first volume describes their shipwreck
and landing at the Bermudas. Sir Thomas Gates, we
gather from a speech of Sir Ralph Winwood, our Ambas-
sador at the Hague, in February 1611, had long been in'
the service of the United Provinces. He told the States
General how some English Lords and gentlemen of quality,
at their own expense, had undertaken to plant a colony
in Virginia, and among those who had laboured for the
success of this design, there was not one who had done
more to advance it than " one of your captains named
** Sir Thomas Gates, who the past year was there, where
" the providence of God led him, after having run the
" risk of shipwreck, being cast in a tempest upon the
" Bermudas, where he dwelt with all his followers more
PREFACE. XUl
" than forty weeks. His Majesty of Great Britain desiring
" the happy issue of this undertaking because of the good
" which he foresees will arise out of it, as well for the
" Christian religion as for the increase of commerce, is of
" opinion that nobody is more fit to be employed there
" than Sir Thomas Gates, as well for his sufficiency as
" for the- knowledge he has of these quarters of the world.
" This is why His Majesty has commanded me to beg
" your Lordship in his name and on his behalf that, with
" your kind permission, he may be able to make once
" more a tour in those countries, and remain for some
" time there to govern the Colony until your service
" recalls him home." The Ambassador continues: "It
" must not be feared that this demand will be drawn into
" a precedent, for there is only he and Captain Dale
" destined for employment in this service. I beseech
" your prompt resolution, the business does not require
" long deliberation. Sir Thomas Gates is under orders,
" and the four ships destined this time for the voyage to
" Virginia are ready to sail, and only await a favourable
" wind and his coming." The States 'General made
answer they were content that, at His Majesty's instance,
Sir Thomas Gates might be employed in Virginia, during
which time his company should be entertained, but his pay
as captain would cea.se (51). He sailed a second time to
Virginia as Governor in 1611, but returned in May 1614.
The latest Biographical Dictionary states that nothing is .
known of his later career, and Stith is quoted as citing a an(1 death.
speech of Captain John Smith, wherein it is affirmed that
Gates afterwards went to the East Indies and died there.
There is, however, some confusion here, for it was Sir
Thomas Dale who went to the East Indies and died there.
As for Sir Thomas Gates we have the authority of Sir
Dudley Carleton, our Ambassador at the Hague, for
XIV
PREFACE.
saying that he died in August 1622 at Count Mansfeldt's
camp at Skenckschaus to the east of Nimeguen. Carleton
told Secretary Sir George Calvert there were three of the
Count's eldest captains dead at his camp in the space of
three days, Philler and Bnts, both men of account, who
died suddenly in one night, and " one of his foot, Sir
" Thomas Gates, an ancient honest gentleman of our
" nation" (122). From an order of the Privy Council in
September 1637 we gather that he left behind him two
sons, Captain Thomas and Anthony, both then deceased,
and two daughters, Margaret and Elizabeth (182).
Sir Thomas On the return of Sir Thomas Gates from Virginia, Sir
Governor of Thomas Dale again went out as Governor, and did not come
Virginia ;
and Prince
Henry.
back until June 1616. Secretary Sir Ralph Winwood, in
a letter to Sir Dudley Carleton, English Ambassador at
the Hague, dated 3rd March 1617 (89), says that Sir
Thomas Dale, having for many years together resided in
Virginia, is now returning into those provinces to his
charge, from whence, although he hath been longer absent
than he had license of the States, yet being a principal
man in an employment of such consequence as that was,
" I assure myself you will labour so effectually for him
" that he shall be no way prejudiced thereby," and the
Secretary of State asked Carleton to give Sir Thomas Dale
such countenance and good respect as he shall think fit
for a man of his quality and merit, and he will purchase
the thanks of many other in this State who hold them
selves much interested in his future well-doing and
advancement. His license to go to Virginia the first time
was procured by Ambassador Winwood in February 1611
(51), upon a letter from the late Prince Henry (89), who
had recommended Sir Thomas Dale to the States Am-
bassador when in England*
In November 1618 he entered the service of the East
PREFACE. XV
India Company as Commander of the newly appointed fleet His services
for India. There was some correspondence in reference quarters of
* j the payment of his entertainment during his absence l&lobe
(89-94), King James himself, writing a very strong letter
to his Ambassador at the Hague in Sir Thomas Dale's
behalf (92), which at the end of a twelvemonth was
successful, and Sir Thomas Dale received his full enter-
tainment for the whole time of his seven years' absence in
Virginia, amounting to 1,000., but the English Am-
bassador, in the same letter that he communicates this
news to the Secretary of State, adds, Sir Thomas has
left the State's service and is gone with charge towards
the East Indies sans dire adieu, which " hath a very ill
" sound here .... the liberality used towards him
" being very extraordinary, and his departure so sudden,
" even the very day of the receipt of his money" (95).
We have already, in a preceding volume of the Calendar of
East Indies, China,' and Japan,* given a sketch of his
services to the East India Company, and an account of
his death, which took place in Masulipatam Koad on 19th
July 1619. His decease was a great loss to his country,
he was, perhaps, the first Englishman who had served
with honour and distinction in three-quarters of the
globe in a different capacity. He was a successful military
Commander in the service of the States General of the
United Provinces. He was, as we have seen, twice
Governor of the Colony in Virginia, and the East India
Company chose him as their Admiral of the largest and
bust appointed fleet which had up to that time (November
1617) ever sailed from England to India.
It was probably Sir Thomas Dale who started a sub- s,,bscrip-
Bcriptkm in India for erecting a school in Virginia. The gJJJ"^
Virginia.
* 1617-1621. Preface, pp. xix -xxv.
XVI
PREFACE
Jealousy
of Spain of
the Virginit
Colony.
Court Minutes of the East India Company prove that a
sum of money to the value of 70Z., " part by some of the
" Company's servants deceased in the Indies, and part out
" of the wages of some that are living," was given towards
this object. The Court showed themselves ready to for-
ward so pious a work, ordered that it should be paid and a
discharge taken from the Virginia Company under their
seal, which was accordingly done (117-18). Three years
later a sum of 20Z. was collected both ashore and aboard
the ships (124-5) and the practise seems to have been
persevered in until the East India Company began to think
that such a collection should be made towards a hospital
for the aged and impotent in their own service, " but if
" anything can be collected from men that die abroad the
" same to be reserved for Virginia" (132-3). There is
evidence that the East India Company paid a further sum
of money to Sir John Wolstenholme by order of the
Council of Virginia, and that Mr. Copland, a minister
returned from India, " doth labour to draw a contribution
from thence " for erecting this school, which contribution
however the Company thought more proper " for building
" a hospital for such as are hurt or maimed in their
" service" (135-6). So there is no further mention of
the School.
In the meantime Spain was watching the progress of
our infant colony with jealousy and distrust. The English
Ambassador at the Court of Madrid/was constantly writing
home about this business. " I can assure you of my own
knowledge," wrote Sir Francis Cottington to Lord Treasurer
Salisbury, " that with those plantations they are here so
" much troubled as they know not how to behave them-
" selves " (52). The King of Spain wrote an indignant
letter to his Ambassador in England complaining of the
seizure of three of his subjects who landed on the coast of
PREFACE.
Florida by certain Englishmen " who say that by order
" of the King of Great Britain they have set foot in the
" part of that coast which they call Virginia," and he
commanded his Ambassador to express to King James the
" just resentment " which he felt (56). Some months
later Sir John Digbye (who had succeeded Cottington)
wrote " they are very much displeased with our plantation
" of Virginia which they stick not now to say that if His
" Majesty will not cause it to be recalled this King will be
" forced by a strong hand to essay the removal of it " (60).
And there are several more letters from our Ambassador
to the same effect.
Complaints were also received from the English Ambas- Complaintb
sador at Paris of our proceedings at Virginia, and Admiral F ren ch
de Montmorency, in a letter to King James, complains of Ambassador,
depredations and cruelties committed by Samuel Argoll,
Captain of the " Treasurer," in the taking of a French ship
which was going to make a plantation in Virginia (81). Sir
Thomas Edmondes reported to the King that he had
satisfied Monsieur de Villeroy, and " he will no more dis-
pute that matter with me" (84). Then we find La
Marquise de Guercheville entreating the courtesy of
Secretary "Winwood for the reparation of the great wrong
which had been done her, and for the recovery of the
Frenchmen who remain in Virginia (85). The Marquise
no doubt had begged the good offices of Louis XIII. and
his Queen, for the English Ambassador again wrote home
two months later that he had had audience of the King and
Queen of France in reference to sundry complaints of His
Majesty's subjects against the French, "whereunto the
" Queen made me no other answer than that the complaints
" were so great which she received, of the spoils which
" were committed upon the French by His Majesty's
" subjects as she was forced to make an extraordinary
72843. b
XV1H PREFACE.
" instance for the redress of the same " (86). Soon after
this Sir Thomas Edmondes presented to their Majesties of
France a memorial of complaints of the subjects of the
King of Great Britain, a document of 21 pages, some of
the complaints dating back 25 years. One of these has a
special interest, inasmuch as it throws a different light upon
a well-known incident which seems to have been erro-
neously described in works compiled by authors generally
recognised as trustworthy. These are the facts of the case as
represented by the English Ambassador. In the year 1606,
Sir Sir Ferdinando Georges, then Governor of Plymouth, and
Ferdinando
Gorges, some others, equipped and put to sea a ship named the
ciiolcner, " Richard," under the command of Captain Chaloner, to
* h ,'P traffic and obtain a footing (prendre pied) upon the coast of
Virginia. This ship was taken at sea with all her
merchandise and provisions to the value of 14,000 or
15,000 livres by a ship belonging to two merchants of
St Malo, Louis and Graves, the captain being Alphonse
Camache, and taken to Bordeaux. One named Tucker
prosecuted Camache before the Parliament of Bordeaux,
but after endeavouring two years to obtain justice, an
order was made 20th February 1609 dismissing his suit.
Now this is at various with Chalmer's, and with Burke's,
History of Virginia I. 85-92, who say the ship was com-
manded by Henry Challoner, and was taken by a Spanish
fleet and carried into Spain. See also Holmes' American
Annals, 2nd edition, I. 125 (87, 87 i.).
The next abstract is the answer to the complaints
presented to King James by the Sieur de Buisseaux, French
Ambassador in England. The first of these relates to
Newfoundland. To the fourth complaint concerning
Virginia, Captain Argoll acknowledges that he took the
Argoll. French ship in question (about which Admiral de Mont-
morency wrote to James I.) within the limits of the
PREFACE. XIX
English Colony, because she tried by force to intrude there Admiral
against the privileges granted to the Virginia Company, m e ore nc y ~
but that nevertheless said ship had been restored at the
request of the French Ambassador. And His Majesty
wishing to give the Ambassador every possible satisfaction
has ordered Captain Argoll to give his reasons for this
arrest whenever the Ambassador shall desire, and that
Tucker, his Lieutenant, shall do likewise on his return. To
the eighth complaint it is answered the Marquise de Marquise
Guercheville has no reason to complain, or expect any cbeville.
reparation, seeing that her ship forcibly entered the
territory of said colony (of Virginia) to settle and traffic
without permission to the prejudice of treaties and good
intelligence between the two Kings (88).
A supplication of certain "Walloons and French who Walloons
were desirous to go into Virginia was in July 1621 to
addressed to Lord Ambassador Carleton who enclosed it to Virginia-
Secretary Sir George Calvert (114-16). The fifty or sixty
families consisted of nearly 300, all of the reformed
religion, among whom were men of all trades and occupa-
tions. They wished to live in " a town or in a corporation
by themselves," and to have the grant of a territory of
eight English miles all round with certain rights and
privileges. The signatures and calling of each are appended
in the form of a round robin (in the first volume of this
Calendar). The King referred this proposal to the Virginia
Company, and their answer was sent to Carleton by the
Secretary of State (116 i.). The papers in this addenda
make this transaction more complete.
Sir William Berkeley, whose commission is dated in sir William
August 1641 (193), remained Governor of Virginia upwards
of 35 years. His letter of recall is dated 5th November Governor of
Virginia.
1676. In regard of his age and infirmities which make
him less able to undergo the great burthen and fatigue of
b2
xx PREFACE.
business in Virginia, especially at this time when evil-
disposed persons have much increased the difficulties and
troubles of his employment there, the King is pleased to
give him permission to retire and repair to England to give
account of the present commotions of the Colony (1109).
The King's In the warrant to the Attorney -General to draw a corn-
recall, mission for Sir Henry Chicheley to be Deputy Governor
during Berkeley's retirement, the King graciously expresses
his sense of Berkeley's long faithful and successful services
to himself and his Royal father, and says, that though
willing to give him leave to retire for his ease and the
recovery of his strength, yet he will not take from him the
title and dignity of Governor (1032). According to a long
document of 12 closely written pages, presumably written
in May 1676, with the title " Complaint from Heaven with
" a hue and cry and a petition out of Virginia and Mary-
" land to King Charles II. and his Parliament/' Governor
Berkeley had " altered by marrying a young wife from his
wonted good" (937). What authority there is for this
statement cannot be ascertained, as there is no signature
and the handwriting seems to be feigned as is the case
with so many anonymous communications. About the
same time a petition of "your poor distressed subjects
in the upper parts of James River '* was addressed to
Governor Sir William Berkeley (921). In it they complain
that the Indians have most barbarously and inhumanly
taken and murdered several of their brethren and put
them to most cruel torture by burying them alive ; that
they are in daily danger of losing their lives and are afraid
of going about their domestic affairs, and they request that
officers may be chosen to lead this party now ready to
take arms in defence of their lives and estates. It is not
the petitioners' desire to put the country to any charge, but
they implore the Governor's speedy answer as the Indiana
PREFACE. XXi
daily approach nearer to their habitations. There is Bacon's
. , , , . . . , ~ rebellion,
evidence that this petition was presented to the (rovernor,
but it was ignored by Berkeley, and most probably led to
Bacon's rebellion. Soon after the outbreak, William
Sherwood wrote to Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson that
a great number of indigent and disaffected persons, stirred
up by Nathaniel Bacon, junr., of but little experience,
and but of two years' continuance in the Colony, who
" thinking himself wiser than the law, raised forces by
" beat of drum to obstruct the proceedings of the Assembly
" to the terror of His Majesty's good subjects ....
" the rabble giving out they will have their own laws,
" demanding the militia to be settled in them with such
" like rebellious practises." This country, says Sherwood,
has had 34 years' experience of the valour, conduct, and
justice of their Governor, whose declaration will inform
more fully of their condition (939, 939 i.).
The papers now calendared furnish a very full account
of this rebellion, and supply de'tails of interest not before
accessible to the historical student. Take, for instance, the
journal of the ship " Young Prince," Robert Morris,
Commander, which contains almost a daily record of the
progress of events, and the names of the principal persons
concerned, with other details not to be found elsewhere,
" during the time she was in the King's service in James
River," from 19th September 1676 to 29th January 1677,
when " the country being reduced we went about our own
business as per the Governor's proclamations 1 ' (1035).
The Secretary of the Colony, Philip Ludwell, as well as
William Sherwood, sent to Secretary Sir Joseph William-
son very full accounts " of the distressed condition of this
" poor country, both from the Indians and the rebellious
" mutiny, which has come to that prodigious height that
" indeed I think no story (wrote Ludwell), "either ancient
PREFACE.
" or modern, can outdo, blood only excepted" (964-5).
" Bacon's letter," his appeal to the people of Accomack,
his declaration signed " Nath. Bacon, General by the
consent of the people," and his manifesto, contain in his
own words the justification of his conduct (941, 969, 1010,
1031); while " the Virginians' plea for opposing the Indians
" without the Governor's order humbly offered as the test
" of their utmost intentions to clear and vindicate them
" from all misapprehensions of disloyalty and disobedience,"
and " the humble appeal of the volunteers to all well-
minded and charitable people " (909) must not be over-
looked (962). The news of Bacon's rebellion does not
seem to have been known to the British Government
until quite three months after the first outbreak. Secretary
Sir Joseph Williamson received Ludwell's relation of it on
3rd September 1676 (964), and another month elapsed
before the King issued an Order in Council directing the
Master General of the Ordnance to cause certain stores, as
per estimate, to be forthwith provided and transported to
Virginia (1047-8). Commissions were then signed for
the officers of the five companies of foot in His Majesty's
regiment of guards to be employed in the expedition, in
which the names are given (1055). We have also the names
of the officers and soldiers going on board the men-of-war
to Virginia, a total of 1094 on board eight ships (1091-2),
soon after increased to 1 ,130 men when the provision to be
made for them was " approved by His Majesty last night "
5th November (1114). Two colours for each of the five
companies of the King's foot guards were to be prepared
by the Master of the King's Great Wardrobe, the designs
The King's fc> r each being described in the warrant (1112). The King
for^up^ 1100 i ssue d on 27th October, a proclamation for suppressing " a
pressing it. rebellion lately raised within the plantation of Virginia,"
declaring all such as have taken arms under Bacon guilty
PREFACE. XXlU
of high treason, and offering a reward of 300L sterling Reward for
for the apprehension of Bacon (1087). But Bacon had appro-
died of a bloody flux the day before the date of this hensiou '
J J His death,
proclamation.
Now the rising of the Indians, the immediate cause of General
rising of the
the rebellion in Virginia, was by no means confined to that Indians.
Colony ; it spread northwards, and was devastating and
threatening to destroy all the English plantations in
America. " The hand of God has been heavy on the land,
more especially upon the town of Boston," writes one
in May ] 676 (928). Plymouth, Deauxborough, and Bridge-
water are great part destroyed, and Captain Bradford and
his son both slain. Mr. Kussell, the magistrate and
country treasurer, is dead ; and few families in town or
country but have some dead or -sick. Sickness is among
the enemy, and some report small-pox which is very fatal
to them. The year before, in June 1675, Benjamin Batten
of Boston sent Sir Thomas Allen, at the Navy Office, a
graphic account of events which preceded the general insur-
rection (614). It seems that Philip, the Indian Sagamore Account of
of those parts, " of a subtle mutinous temper," had retired rec ii on>
with 600 armed men to a place difficult of access, because of
a thick swamp and rocks, a promontory called Mounthope,
in sight of Rhode Island and 40 miles from Boston. He
had quarrelled with those of Plymouth for pretended tres-
passes on his lands, but Boston mediated. Afterwards, he
and two of his chief men were tried for murder, Philip
" was cleared but the chief men were executed, at which
" he was enraged." Batten gives an account of the daily
occurrences from June 21st to July 6th. The Indians
offered to join battle, but we dared not venture till more
help came from Boston ; plenipotentiaries attempted to
mediate, but Philip would not speak with them ; they met
in their journey the bodies of Englishmen without heads,
PREFACE.
11 their barbarous way of triumph." Then there was a
good bit of skirmishing in which many were killed on
both sides and many houses were burnt, so that we " have
" reason to suspect that this is a general insurrection
" among the Indians." Six months after this, Governor
Leverett reported to the Secretary of State the state of
the plantations in New England, " by reason of the Indian
natives rising up in hostility." He explained that our
taking to arms was not a matter of choice, but necessitated
for defence of the King's rights, upholding authority
in the government and defending the rights of the
subjects against the barbarous rage and inhumanity of
the pagans who " have not assigned any cause of their
acting." Their most dangerous enemies are the Narragan-
setts who supply Philip with men, and entertain his men,
women, and children. The English have lost about 300
men, JJOO in battle, " the rest by their skulking upon
travellers or labouring men." Their ranging has been
as in a crescent from Mounthope, where they first rose,
westward and northward to Connecticut, northward and
eastward to Kennebec, through the country about 300
miles. The county of York, called the Province of Maine,
is much wasted ; in the whole, seven villages have been
wasted, and houses, corn, and cattle destroyed. Josiah
Winslow, Governor of Plymouth, had advanced from Boston
with nigh 600 men to the rendezvous in the Narragansett
country where he will make up complete 1,000 men
" under his control." With this letter, Governor Leverett
enclosed a " Proclamation of the Massachusetts, setting
" forth the reasons of the war against the Indians"
(745 i.).
In continuation of this account Samuel Symonds, Deputy
Governor of Massachusetts, "by order of the Council,"
informed Secretary Williamson that he had hoped to have
PREFACE. xxv
given a better account " of the war with the pagan natives "
"... but our calamities since that time have been much
" augmented." He relates how, in the depth of winter,
Governor Leverett marched into the Narragansett country
after much hardship, and assaulted them at their head-
quarters in a rude fort made in a great swamp where
many hundreds were slain, their wigwams destroyed, and
they driven forty miles up into the Nipnet country, towards
Connecticut river, whither they were pursued and many
slain. The English had 70 killed, and twice as many
wounded. They have been out in pursuit more than
100 miles to the westward, and over Connecticut river,
but cannot meet with any body of them ; they leave their
women and children in hideous swamps and inaccessible
places, and themselves disperse in small parties all over the
country, and by ambuscades and secret skulkings so infest
the highways that many travellers have been cut off; then
on a sudden, multitudes gathering together, fall on the
out towns which lie dispersed a great distance from one
another. Then having fired the deserted houses, barns,
&c., they as suddenly disappear before any relief can
come, so that many country towns and farms are destroyed
in Plymouth, Connecticut, and Maine. Since the beginning
of the war above 500 of the King's subjects have been
slain, towns and villages ruined, houses not to be numbered
burnt, people much distracted, husbandry and trading
obstructed, and scarcity of bread, corn, and provisions to
be feared. Forty years since, adds the Deputy Governor,
the Indians had no guns and there was a strict law against
selling them powder; but in a short time they were
furnished by the French and Dutch, and many affirm the
Indians are encouraged by the French in Canada and by
the Dutch from Fort Albany (876).
Three months after the date of this letter Governor
XXVI PEE FACE.
Leverett, on 15th June 1676, again reported the state of
affairs to Secretary Williamson. He takes up the nar-
rative from his previous letter which is more fully related
by the Deputy Governor in his letter, and goes on to say
that the forces of the Colonies marched forth taking
prisoners and killing many, some of their principal sachems,
amongst others Quananshit, the chief sachem of the
Narragansetts. Philip assailed the western towns on
Connecticut river, but was repulsed, and " this last week
about 100 slain." The eastern parts are quiet, and
" many come in and are coming in professing a desire to
" be at peace. The hand of God has been heavy on the
" Colonies by an epidemical distemper of colds, and
" thereby putrid fevers . . . yet resolved to prosecute
" the war to the utmost, and hope in His good time to
" give an account of the Lord's delivery of them." Since
December, by the nearest computation, they have had
slain and taken captives about 340, forty being captives
of whom twenty redeemed (952).
William Harris also, in five closely written pages, writes
Secretary Williamson in the following August a very full
account of the insurrection, in which the Indians killed his
son and a negro, burned his house, drove away his cattle,
and burned fifty loads of hay. He gives many details of
the war not in the Governor's or Deputy Governor's letters.
In the spring, 1,300 English marched up the country and
slew about sixty, " but could not come up with the nimblest
enemy." After this the Indians did many mischiefs to
the towns of Massachusetts, and Captain Pierce fell into
an ambush of 1,000 of them at Blakstonos river near
Rehoboth, and his ammunition being spent, all his men
save a few were killed. The thousand Indians went to
Rehoboth and Providence where they burned houses and
killed cattle and stragglers. The Connecticut forces took
PREFACE. xxvil
the greatest man of the Narragan setts, Nau-naun-ta-nute,
whom they gave over to Uncas' son to slay, Uncas him-
self having thirty years since slain Nau-naun-ta-nute's
father. The news from every quarter is that the English
prevail. Within a few months 700 Indians have been
slain, taken, and come in, and they have little provision
and ammunition and are lean and dismayed, and pray
that they may live. Philip is supposed to be with
about 1,000 men in the swamp where the first fight
was near Mounthope. " The English are supposed to
have lost 1,000 souls in the war." He acknowledges
the power of God in punishing the blasphemies of the
Indians " as fig leaves," he says, " could not cover shame
" or sin, so the green leaves of the wilderness could not
" cover our unjust enemy." News has been brought from
Virginia of destruction done by the Indians, which shows
that the contrivance of the war went far. " Our little
" boys cry to go out against the Indians, and run on
" them without fear." And he concludes in a postscript :
Since the capture of the great man of Narragansett the
war has gone against the Indians. Between March and
August 2,000 have been killed, taken, come in, and it is
supposed 1,500 before, and a thousand or fifteen hundred
English slain from the first. Great loss among the
Indians by sickness ; from all causes they have lost about
seven thousand. Before the war the Indians lived with more
ease than poor labouring men and tradesmen in England.
News has come this 12th August that Philip was slain in
a swamp a mile from Mounthope, being set upon by
Captain Church of Plymouth and Captain Sandford
of Ehode Island, each with 40 men. Philip was shot
through the heart by an Indian, and his head and hands
are now on Rhode Island (1021). Governor Berkeley
said the Indians had destroyed divers towns in New
XXVlll PREFACE.
England, killed more than a thousand fighting men,
seldom were worsted in any encounter, and have made
the New England men desert about a hundred miles of
The Nor- ground they had seated and built towns on. " They will
Colonies not recover tnese 20 ye ars * hat they have lost" (858-9).
will not Si r Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, in describing
recover in
20 years. " our misfortunes by the negroes first, and then by the
hurricane," says, " we retain one advantage, we sleep
" not so un quietly as the rest of our neighbours in
" America, from whence we receive nothing but ill news
' of daily devastations by the Indians," and that they
spread like a contagion over all the continent from New
England to Maryland and Virginia, neither is New York
without apprehension (862).
We learn from his petitions to the King (585-8) that
the William Harris above-mentioned had been " a weary
" traveller for the space of almost forty years in the
" wilderness of New England, and was one of the first
" Englishmen that purchased land, called Patuxet, of the
" most superior Indians in the Narragansett Bay, until
" persons from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New
; ' Plymouth, under pretence of other purchases, entered it."
Leading men He knew most of the leading men in New England, the
England Governor of Connecticut, Winthrop a prudent moderate
man, Deputy Governor Leet, and some of the assistants,
wise men and devout for their churches, the Governor of
New Plymouth, Winslow, a very wise moderate man,
the Governor of Massachusetts Leveret, their Deputy
Symonds, and Assistants, very xlevout men for their
churches, the Governor of Rhode Island, Coddington, the
Deputy Easton, and Assistants, some of them called
Account Quakers, some called Generals (531). In another paper
En land Harris gives a graphic account of New England. There were
between 7,000 and 8,000 foot, and 8 or 10 troop of horse,
PREFACE. XXIX
each troop between 60 and 80. Twelve ships between
40 and 80 tons were built every year in Boston, Salem,
and that jurisdiction. " I came over (he says) in a ship
built there of 200 tons, with 14 guns." There are three or
four ironworks. The merchants seem to be rich men, and
their houses as handsomely furnished as most in London.
Their trade is described and may certainly be called free.
Their money is of " pretty good silver," in the middle is a
pine tree (with which the country abounds) ; the value of
;heir shilling is but 9d. sterling, the pieces usually current
are only 2d. t 3d., 6d., and shillings ; Jamaica supplies them
with silver. The houses are of brick and stone, but most
of timber of two or three stories. They have three meeting
houses set round with galleries, each as large as an
ordinary parish church. In Rhode Island, " the garden Rhode
of New England," the houses are very good, especially at Island -
Newport, where are more sheep than anywhere else. The
town and trade of Connecticut not considerable. Plymouth,
Connecticut, and Massachusetts are in a confederacy, Connecticut
called the United Colonies, but Rhode Island is not. The set a t j sd<
soldiers are all of the inhabitants and exercise twice a
week, their horsemen wear buff coats, pistols, hangers,
and corslets ; every soldier bears his own charges, except
in war with the Indians ; all able bear arms, except a few
Anabaptists and the Quakers, who will not bear any.
The Governors chosen by all the freemen. John Leverett,
Governor of Boston, a resolute man, the election is yearly,
but he has been Governor three years since Bellingham's
death ; John Winthrop, a very good sober man, has been
Governor of Connecticut 20 years, and 11 years ago got a
Patent from the King ; Josiah Winslow, a moderate man,
is Governor of New Plymouth ; and the Governor of
Rhode Island is William Coddington, a Quaker. The
most tyrannical ministers to those that differ from them
XXX
PREFACE.
are the Presbyterians, amongst the fiercest Mr. Thatcher.
" the only man in the country that keeps a coach." The
greatest part of the ministers are Presbyterians, Ana-
baptists, and Quakers ; in Rhode Island Anabaptists and
Quakers rule. There is a considerable party in all the
Colonies called Common Protestants, who in Massachusetts
are not permitted to bear any office but constables, though
in Rhode Island they enjoy the same privileges as others.
There is a college at Cambridge, three miles from Boston,
where many preachers, physicians, and Indians are bred,
but no lawyers. It has translated the Bible into the
Indian language. In Massachusetts there are three or
four congregations of Indians called Praying Indians,
distinguished from the others in Rhode Island, who are
unconverted. Formerly there was a fencing school in
Massachusetts. Gaming not allowed. Cloth they make,
but the better sort of linen is brought from England
(543). Ferdinando Gorges' title to Maine and Robert
Hampshire. Mason's title to New Hampshire are fully described; all
the papers concerning these controversies may readily be
found by means of the Index.
Carolina. The " Shaftesbury Papers " materially add to the value
of those calendared in this volume relating to the settle-
ment of Carolina. Every possible inducement was held
out by the Lords Proprietors to " all ingenious and
industrious persons " who would go over. Liberty of
conscience, choice of their own Governor, and Assembly
from among themselves, freedom from customs on all
exports for seven years under certain conditions, 100 acres
of land to each male, and 50 acres to a female, paying l()s.
for every 1,000 acres to the Lords Proprietors, with other
advantages (377). Soon after Sir John Yeamans was
appointed Governor in 1671 the gentlemen chosen for an
Assembly for Clarendon County, with the consent of the
Maine
111*1
PREFACE. XXXi
Governor, addressed the Lords Proprietors, supplicating
the redress of three grievances, the halfpenny per acre
for land, the *' undecimal division " of land, and the in-
junction on penalty of forfeiture of keeping one man upon
every 100 acres. This document has 14 signatures (390).
In the summer of 1675 the Earl of Shaftesbury, his The Earl
-i-i-i TT ,-I-IT ..of Slmftes-
becretary and friend, John Locke, were the leading spirits bury's
in the early settlement of Carolina many letters signed
" Shaftesbury " are wholly in Locke's handwriting wrote John Locke.
three letters on the same day to " his very affectionate
friends the Governor and Council," to his very affectionate
friend Andrew Percivall of St. Giles plantation on Ashley
river, and to his very sincere friend Maurice Matthews,
about a new colony of Quakers. " They are people," A Colony of
C J u n. K t* r ^
wrote the Earl, " I have had transactions with here,
and am concerned to have a particular care of," and he
recommended the Governor and Council to give them
such usage as may encourage them to invite over the rest
of their friends, " who intend to follow in a considerable
number." " A whole colony " of 12,000 acres was to be
set out for them, as they intended within five years to
build a town of 30 houses, with 100 inhabitants at least,
" to each of which houses (sic) must belong as a town lot
" 70 acres inseparable for ever" (576-8). The next day
Lord Shaftesbury wrote another letter to the Governor
and Council, expressing his great dissatisfaction at the
manner in which his "particular care of them, and Supplies.
" their settlement, ever since they first sat down upon
" Ashley River " had been acknowledged. Last year
when the Lords Proprietors' expectations of returns grew Dissati.vfc-
weary, he got them to consent to a new method of Lords Pro -
supplying them. " If," continues Lord Shaftesbury, P ru ' tcls -
" they will be so much friends to themselves as to lay
" down any rational way that will satisfy the Lords
" Proprietors, they mean to pay for the things sent to
xxxn
PREFACE.
Ashley
River.
" them, and not any longer to give cause to apprehend
" that for 90,OOOJ. or lOO.OOOZ., the Lords have purchased
" nothing but the charge of maintaining 500 or 600
" people," then he may be able to persuade the Lords to
send a further supply. He makes them " a fair proposal,"
and promises, if accepted, "nobody shall want supplies
" for the future, who will pay for them at moderate
Seth Sothell. " rates " (581). About this time Seth Sothell," a person
of considerable estate in England," went out with an
intention to plant in Carolina, and take up a manor of
12,000 acres, with people he will take over. He was the
bearer of a letter to the Governor and Council at Ashley
River from Lord Shaftesbury, who begged them to use
him kindly for their own interest, since nothing " can so
" much contribute to the growth and prosperity of the
" plantation, as that men of estates should settle amongst
" them " (584). And at the same time, the bearer John
Smith, Lord Shaftesbury's particular friend, " brings
" his wife and family, and a considerable estate,
" with intention to plant," and intends to take up a
manor (590). There is a long letter from the Lords
Proprietors to the Government and Assembly of the
Albemarle. county of Albemarle, in which their Lordships assure
them they will never part with the county of Albemarle,
" but will always maintain our Province of Carolina
" entire as it is." Thomas Eastchurch, " your Speaker "
was, a month after the date of this letter, 21st October
1676, appointed Governor and Command er-in- Chief of
Albemarle (1075, 1142). A large folio volume containing
the record of all grants of land in South Carolina from
the first establishment of the Colony, with names of
grantees and situation of grant to 31st October 1765, will
be found abstracted, but only those grants for the years
1674 (the earliest date) to the year 1676 are tabulated in
thisvolune(717, 1224).
PEEFACE.
There are many references to Maryland. In a letter to Maryland,
the Archbishop of Canterbury, in August 1676, John Yeo The Arch-
laments the deplorable condition of Maryland for want of Canterbury,
an established ministry. He says there are 10 or 12
counties in this province, with at least 20,000 souls, and
but three Protestant ministers of the Church of England.
The Popish priests and Jesuits are provided for, and the
Quaker provides for the speakers in their conventicles, but
no care is taken for those of the Christian religion. The
Lord's day is profaned, religion despised, and notorious vices
committed, " so that it is become a Sodom of uncleanness,
and a pest house of iniquity." Now, Yeo urges, is the time
for His Grace to be an instrument of universal reforma-
tion amongst them. Cecil Lord Baltimore is dead, and
Charles Lord Baltimore bound for England, to receive the
King's confirmation. Doubts not His Grace may prevail
for the maintenance of a Protestant ministry, as in
Virginia, Barbadoes, and all other His Majesty's plan-
tations which will encourage able men to come among
them. The Archbishop sent this letter " from a person
altogether unknown" to him, to the Bishop of London,
and told him the design seemed so honest and laudable,
that " I conceive it concerns us by all means to promote
it," and he makes no question that if the Bishop will
remember it when Lord Baltimore's affair is considered
at the Council table, there may be a convenient oppor*
tunity to obtain some settled revenue for the ministry
in Maryland. When that is once done, writes the Arch-
bishop, it will be no difficult matter for us to supply
them with those of competent abilities both regular and
conformable (1005, 1005 i.),
The King, by Commission dated 24th July 1 674, appointed New York,
Major Andros and Anthony Brockhurst to demand and
take possession of the Colony of New York from the Dutch
y 72843.
XXXIV
PREFACE.
Colonel
Lovelace
committed
to the
Tower.
" bj virtue of the 6th Article of our last Treaty with the
States General." His Majesty, having granted said Colony
to the Duke of York, commands them as soon as they shall
have possession to comport themselves as to the future
government and revenues according to the Duke of York's
instructions (400). A few months later, in February 1675,
Colonel Francis Lovelace " late Commander of the Fort of
New York," for not having defended it, was committed
to the Tower. He besought the King to appoint Com-
missioners to examine him in order to clearing himself.
So a warrant was issued to the Duke of Monmouth and
others directing any five or more of them, with the Judge
Advocate, to examine Colonel Lovelace concerning the
rendering the said fort and Colony to the Dutch in the late
war, and report to His Majesty what he has to say upon the
whole matter. The same day the Lieutenant of the Tower
was ordered to send Colonel Lovelace at such time and
to such place as shall be testified under the hands of the
Duke of Monmouth and the rest of the Lords appointed
to examine him (441-2). Neither of these are printed in
Broadhead's New York Colonial Documents (11 vols., 4to.).
Colonel Lovelace was still a prisoner in the Tower at the
end of April, when we find him dangerously ill of a dropsy,
and he was, by warrant, allowed to have his liberty, on
giving security in 5001. to render himself again a prisoner
when duly required (530) . In " a narrative of the settle-
" ment of the corporation of Massachusetts Bay, and
" Captain Wyborne's account of things," laid before the
Lords of Trade and Plantations, it seems that Wyborno
had proposed to the Boston Magistrate the reducing of
New York, offering his service with the King's frigate, but
received for answer " that they would contribute their
" endeavours provided it might be annexed to their Govern-
'' ment," and if this were refused, they bad rather the
PREFACE. XXXV
possession of New York remained with the Dutch than
come under such a person as Colonel Lovelace who might
prove a worse neighbour (721). When Major Andros was Major
Andros,
governor the Duke of York applauded him for discouraging Governor.
any motion for an Assembly, as being not comprehended
in his instructions, nor consistent with the form of
government established, nor necessary for the redress of
grievances, " as such may be easily obtained by an Address
to the Governor" (513). And in another letter, nearly a The Duke of
York and an
year later, the Duke declared that he could not but suspect Assembly.
an Assembly would be of dangerous consequence, nothing
being more known than the aptness of such bodies to
assume privileges destructive to the peace of the Govern-
ment. " I do not see any use of them which is not as well
" provided for while the Governor and Council govern
" according to laws established." However, the Duke goes
on to say, if Governor Andros continues of the same
opinion, he will be ready to consider any proposals to
that purpose (795). There is a large folio MS. Volume
of 433 pages containing the records of all grants of land
in New York from the first establishment of the Colony
in 1664 to the end of the administration of Lieutenant-
Governor Delancey in 1760, and from 1761 to 1765 (371).
There are numerous papers relating to Newfoundland, Newfound*
land.
many of which concern the fishery and furnish statistics of
value, while others refer to the government of the country,
and the total abandonment of it as a settlement or colony.
Sir John Berry, writing from Her Majesty's ship " Bristol "
in the Bay of Bulls, to Secretary Williamson, in September
1675, reports that this year there were 175 ships with Statistics
of the
4,309 men and 688 boats which, at 250 kintals per boat at Fishery,
12s. per kintal amounted to 103,200^. ; 7 hogsheads of oil
per boat at 40s. per hogshead is 9,816?., besides 20 kintala
of " core fish " 3,440Z., all which comes to 116,272Z. Thera
o 3
XXXVI PREFACE.
were planters 1,655 men, women, and children, who em-
ployed 277 boats and cured merchantable fish mostly
shipped to England valued at 46,813L, more than a third
of the fish taken by the merchant adventurers. " By
this," says Sir John Berry, " His Majesty will see what a
" loss he will have if those poor people should remove, for
" they design to settle amongst the French on the other side
" of Cape Race unless His Majesty will let them continue "
(665). The above figures slightly vary in the accounts of
Captains Russell and Wyborne, furnished by order of the
Lords of Trade in 1676, while the total of English in-
habitants is set down at 1657, or two more than the year
before (1175 xn.). In another letter, Sir John Berry
encloses " a list of the planters' names " (666 IL).
The Settle- ^^ e arguments for and against a settled government
abandoned. in Newfoundland, or the plantation being abandoned (470,
475), were the subjects of " great debate " on several
occasions at the Board of Trade and Plantations (482, 498,
524). The Board reported to the King that unless they saw
reasons for a colony they could see none for a Governor,
and against a colony there were not only the rigours of
the climate and infertility of the land, but the inhabitants
chiefly consumed the products of New England and would
in time tread in the same steps to the loss of England, for
a like regulation on the products of Newfoundland as on
those of other plantations could not be expected, because
fish cannot bear the charge of coming home but must go
directly to the markets abroad. So an Order in Council
declared the King's pleasure that all inhabiting that
country be discouraged, and that all planters come
voluntarily away, and His Majesty's convoy assist in
transporting those desirous to return homo or to betake
themselves to other Plantations (550). Some three months
after the date of this Order in Council, Sir John Berry
PREFACE. XXXVll
reported to the Secretary of State that he had declared the
King's pleasure to all the planters, but the greatest part
are too poor to remove unless His Majesty will send a ship
for them, " and at last they must be put on the parish when-
" ever they come. A labouring man will get in a summer
" season near 20/., and their daily food comes out of the sea,
" while such a person would not get 3L in England." He
has, he says, made diligent enquiry into all those things laid
to the planters' charge by the merchants, and finds most of
them false, " but some self -ended persons have a mind
to engross all into their own hands." If these be removed
from the country, argues Sir John, His Majesty's subjects
would, in a few years, find the ill-effects of it, for un-
doubtedly the greatest part would settle among the French
where they are already invited with great promises, or else
for New England, and they implore His Majesty's favour
to continue and promise all obedience, to what orders shall
be given (628). " I cannot but pity the poor inhabitants,"
says Sir John Berry in another letter, " considering so
" many false informations have been laid to their charge
" as formerly reported " (744, see also 769).
" A particular list " specifies the names of the officers of Jamaica,
the five regiments and a troop of horse " under the command
of General Venables (212) destined for Jamaica. Vice-
Admiral Penn reported to the Navy Commissioners on the
17th March 1655, " what a gallant passage the Lord gave
" us, and that both seamen and soldiers were in health and
"in a quiet and cheerful posture" (213). They had
arrived at Barbadoes nearly two months before on 29th
January, and seized all foreign ships trading there contrary
to law. Fifteen were fitted for transportation of the forces
raised in the Island, above 3,000 foot and two troops of
horse. Penn dwells on the great increase of the number
of mouths made by this accession, and begs the Com-
XXXV111
PREFACE.
England
takes
possession,
Generals
Penn and
Venables
committed
to the
Tower.
Cromwell's
Proclama-
tion.
missioners consider how much " this great and honourable
design " is concerned in the care that shall be taken
touching supplies. The English took possession of Jamaica
on 10th May 1655, the people found upon the place to the
number of 1,400 having fled to the hills except some
negroes and Portuguese who submitted.* About four
months after Major-General Sedgwick arrived in Barbadoes
road " with the whole squadron, God was pleased to smile
upon us in a very comfortable passage." He tells the
Navy Commissioners there is no news since " the repulse
" at Hispaniola. I hope God hath brought down our[ con-
" fident spirits to fill us for some more noble work. Many
" (he says) think Jamaica a more considerable island than
" Hispaniola and may effect more than the other. I find
" both soldiers and seamen active and willing and not
" discouraged, and therefore I hope God has yet a blessing
" for them and that this design is his and that he will own
" it " (221). Both Penn and Yenables arrived in England
about the date of this letter, 6th September 1655, and after
having given a narrative of their proceedings to the Council
of State were apprehended and committed to the Tower,
General Robert Venables, General of the English forces
sent to America, for having " deserted the army committed
" to his charge contrary to his trust ; General William
" Penn, General of the English fleet sent to America, for
" having, ' without license, returned from thence contrary
" his trust.' ' General Penn was a prisoner in the Tower
five weeks, General Venables a week longer, but they were
the"n released " in consideration of their acknowledgment of
their fault and their submission."f
On 10th October, Cromwell issued a proclamation giving
encouragement to such as shall transport themselves to
* First Vol. of Colonial Calendar, p. 429. t Mid, p. 429.
PREFACE.
Jamaica. Being satisfied with the fertility of the Island to encourage
the settle-
and its conimodiousness for trade, we have resolved to use ment of
our best endeavours to secure and plant the same, and to
this end make known, especially to the people of the
English Islands and Colonies, the encouragements we have
thought fit to give to those who shall remove themselves
(229). And first the Lord Protector refers to the security
of the Island. Above 6,000 soldiers were landed there in
May last, and in July a regiment of 800 men, " drawn out
of our old regiments in England," with eight ships of
war added to twelve others left there by General Penn
under command of Captain William Goodson. Those
removing thither to be under the immediate protection of
the State, every male of 12 years and upwards to have
20 acres of land, and 10 acres -for every other male or
female. Liberty for seven years to hunt and dispose of
horses and cattle on the Island, and no custom, excise, or
duty to i>e paid until September 1659. All born within the
Island and professing the Protestant religion to be free
denizens of England. Cromwell resolved to use all possible
endeavours to people and plant Jamaica, and to that
purpose dispatched Daniel Gookin to New England to
make agreements with those willing to go to that Island,
and in all the plantations and islands in America was this
proclamation issued (232). A Committee was appointed
in England for the business of Jamaica and to consider
the removal thither of people from Nevis and the allowance
for 1,000 Irish girls and youths to be sent to Jamaica.*
Admiral Goodson reported in June 1656 that he was
sending ships from Jamaica to Nevis for about 1,000
people besides women, children, and servants (p. 111).
When Major Sedgwick arrived in November he " found
' both Commissioners and both Generals gone and not
any sign remaining that ever there was a commissioner
* First Vol. of Colonial Calendar, p. 430.
2 * PREFACE.
" in these parts of the world." At his first landing he
found the whole shore covered with butts, barrels, and
chests of dry goods, as clothing, arms, surgeons' chests,
&o., lying exposed to all the damages imaginable, when
a week's time with soldiers or sailors would have built a
house to receive them all. " I am certainly affirmed," he
writes to the Admiralty Commissioners, that soldiers have
offered to sell dozens of shoes for 1.2d. the pair, new and
Sickness good (236). The state of our Army is sad as God has
and Mor- -, . , , i ,. i
taiity in visited us with a sore hand of sickness, tearing and
rmy% snatching us away in much displeasure. Major-General
Fortescue, Commander-in-Chief, died about 14 days since
reports Sedgwick on 14th November, and since he came
not less than 700 are laid in their graves ; the greatest
part of the Army is sick and many of our new regiment
that landed in health and about 50 of them dead.
Sedgwick begged that he might return home, his condition
agreeing not well with the climate ; he fears he shall not
long trouble it, but he does not go ashore oftener than
business calls him. " I beg your prayers, we all need
" them, our condition calls aloud to you, the Lord make
" you prevail for us " (236-7). About six months after
this letter was written Captain Godfrey reported to the
Admiralty that by the pale hand of death they were
deprived of Major-General Sedgwick on 24th May 1656,
and three days afterwards of Captain Leonard Harris.
" Mortality " (he adds) " has not yet left off reigning
here " (261). A list of men well and sick, women and
children, in the seven regiments shows that considerably
more than half were sick, there being 2,194 well, while
2,316 were sick, and 172 women and children (240).
Cornelius Burough, the Steward General in Jamaica,
wrote " I am here alive through mercy, when thousands
have gone to the place of silence " (278) .
Energetic measures for relief were taken by the Home
PREFACE. xli
Government, and at the numerous meetings of the Council Energetic
of State at Whitehall it was ordered that supplies and R e ii e f.
provisions of all sorts and medicaments be sent to Jamaica
without delay (225-8). These included beef and pork,
bread and rice, brandy and spices, clothes, all sorts of
agricultural instruments, lamp-wick, tallow candles, and
two skiffs 20 and 30 feet long, with spars, axes, and
hatchets, with one or two glaziers, smiths, and masons, and
materials, coopers, carpenters, calkers, and armourers.
Provisions were likewise taken up at New England (245) .
The Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy subse-
quently made an elaborate report to " His Highness " on
the condition of the fleet and the state of the Island which
Cromwell approved and then empowered them to act upon ;
six " nimble frigates," with 750 men, were to be sent out,
and victuals for 4,000 men for six months at 2,OOOL to the
Commander-in-Chief to carry on the necessary works and
other emergent services (289). In March 1658 Captain
Myngs reported that the Island principally depends upon
the transportation of people thither (297), but this was
not lost sight of at home as will be seen by the numerous
references in the index about peopling and persons going Numbers of
to Jamaica from Nevis, Barbadoes, and other places. All pe .P le
r going to
things, he said, go well out here, health stands, and every settle,
one is very sensible that the earth, with the other elements,
naturally contribute to increase, as in other parts, and find
more advantage in settlement here than in other parts (297).
An abstract of the officers and soldiers " residing upon
the Island of Jamaica," according to the muster taken
in January 1659, shows there were at that time 2,041
and a troop of horse of 70 men (312). A year elapsed ;
it was not then known in Jamaica who were in power.
" We are here just like you at home,'* writes Cornelius
Burough ; " when we heard of the Lord Protector's death
xlii PREFACE.
Changes " we proclaimed his son, when we heard of his being
Cromwell's " turned out we proclaimed a Parliament, and now own a
death. Committee of Safety '' (326). It was a sign of the times,
and shows the new state of affairs in England was being
accepted in Jamaica. " I desire you not to think I
" insinuate into you upon the account of religion, a most
" wicked cheat in this age," writes the Steward General in
Jamaica. ..." profession of religion makes people
" suspected to be knaves." In the meantime the Island
was suffering from the want of their usual supplies. The
want of shoes and all things necessary for soldiers, writes
Colonel D'Oyley, has this summer given such heart to the
negroes that they have done more mischief than in the
past two years, having snatched away a captain, two
ensigns and divers soldiers, and killed others, which hath
necessitated him to set an impost on strong liquors, which
has had the good success of finding out where the negroes
have lurked these four years undiscovered, who have built
a town and planted about 200 acres of provisions. " I am
" now in parley with them and doubt not a good issue "
(332).
Lord Under Lord Vaughan's Government Jamaica was in a
^r flU @L! R D
the King's prosperous condition. In his letter to the Lords of Trade
and Plantations of 28th January 1676, the Governor
reports that trade and planting has considerably im-
proved, the Island is exceedingly helpful, and the children
born in it live and are very prosperous " so that the
" Croyolians and natives will in a few years make a great
" people." Some of the best quality from Barbadoos
(p. 282) and those removed from Surinam (250 whites and
981 slaves [932]) proved a considerable addition, and most
of them were well settled and exceedingly pleased ^vith the
Island (799). It was computed there were about 5,000
fighting men in Jamaica, double the number of women
PREFACE. xliii
and children, and treble the number of negroes (794).
Lord Vaughan sent a very full " account of the present
state and condition " of the Island, in answer to their
Lordships' inquiries. There were then seven regiments of
foot and one of horse, and about 60 or 70 vessels belonged
to the Island. The Governor was anxious that the body
of laws he had sent to Secretary Coventry should be
approved, and His Majesty's assent given to them, and he
says the sooner they are returned the better for encouraging
people to come (799, 800). Among these was " An Act
" for the perpetual anniversary thanksgiving on the 10th
" May for the happy success and conquest made and
" obtained in His Majesty's Island of Jamaica," which the
Lords agree to report should be laid aside, "and the
" solemnity discontinued, as too much reflecting upon the
" circumstances of those times and of that conquest which
" rather seemed to have been made in opposition to his
" Majesty " (926). Charles II. favored the Island "
with a mace which was taken over in 1662 by Lord
Windsor, and carried before the Governor on solemn
occasions (p. 343). This mace is supposed to have been
the " bauble " which Cromwell ordered to be removed
from the table of our House of Commons. The present
Speaker, the Right Honourable Arthur W. Peel, on the
authority of the Governor of Jamaica, Sir Henry A. Blake,
says it is probable this mace was in Port Royal in 1692
and went down with the public buildings and all the
records in the great earthquake of that year. Lord
Vaughan, " Captain General," had a salary of 2,OOOZ. per
annum, a troop of guards attended him, and his residence
was at St. Jago (p. 215).
The Articles agreed on by Lord Willoughby of Parham, Barbadoes.
and Sir George Ayscue, Daniel Searle and Captain Michael
Packe, for the rendition of Barbadoes to Sir George
Xv PREFACE.
Ayscne for the use and behoof of the Parliament of the
Commonwealth of England, were signed by "Willoughby
on llth January 1652 (199), and approved and con-
firmed by Parliament on 18th August following. Captain
Richard Nicholls was, by an Order of the Council of State,
presented with 100Z. " for his good service in bringing the
" news of the surrender, according to the order of Parlia-
" ment," and 10J. was paid to the person, the name is
left blank in the original, who brought the first news of
the surrender (200).
SirJona- gi r Jonathan Atkins arrived Governor in November
than Atkins,
Governor. 1674. The first thing he did was to call a new Assembly,
who " met so well tempered . . . that I have brought
them to a right understanding, and we all live amiably."
He believed there was not a spot of ground in the universe
better planted or better inhabited, very fruitful, and
always green the whole year. There was not a foot of
land in Barbadoes not employed, even to the very seaside,
and whoever will have land there must pay dearer for it
than for land in ^England (p. 421). The Guinea corn
produces a thousand grains for one grain. There were six
regiments of foot, counting 8,000 men, and 14 troops of
horse, or 800, and in a short time 2,000 could be mounted.
Their misfortunes, the Governor adds, are from the hand
of God, and not from any neglect of their own. 200,OOOZ.
Terrible will not repay the damage caused by the hurricane of
August 1675 (811). Governor Atkins wrote an account
of it to the Secretary of State. He described the ruin of
houses, works, mills, sugars, and utensils as incredible.
Their canes for next year's crop twisted and broken off,
their corn and ground provisions, that should have kept
their families six months, laid flat or rooted up. " Never
was seen such prodigious ruin in three hours." Three
churches, 1,000 houses, and most of the mills to leeward
PREFACE.
were thrown down, 200 people killed, whole families being
buried in the ruin of their houses, a torrent of rain beating
down all before it, unroofing all their store-houses, and
wetting their sugars. " I never saw a more amazing sight
in one night." All trees stripped of fruit and leaves,
housing laid flat, and the people in such consternation and
distraction that they resolved never to build again but to
leave the Island. But many have changed their mind and
are repairing as fast as they can, but a great many can
never be able to do it. Twelve ships were driven ashore
and broken to pieces, but the King's frigate " Foresight,"
perceiving 'the storm coming, saved herself by standing
out to sea. " All the prodigious effects of this hurricane
would swell into a volume and puzzle belief" (690).
Colonel William Stapleton, Governor of the Leeward
Islands, in his Answer to Queries concerning those islands,
says in Nevis the " Hurri-Canes " have taught the people
to build low (p. 499). Has the singular writing of this
word anything to do with the etymology of it ? It is
supposed to be a native American word.
The inhabitants are described as of four sorts, viz. : inhabitants,
freeholders paying yearly one ear of Indian corn to His
Majesty ; freemen, who having served their time, serve
for wages ; servants whose time is not expired, and negro
slaves from Guinea, Cormantin, or Madagascar. There
were 10,000 white men able to bear arms, 3,030 white
male children, 8,695 white women and girls ; total, 21,725.
Negro men 10,525, boys 5,827, women and girls 16,121;
total 32,473, in all 54,198,
Governor Atkins held very strong views as to free trade Governor
and the Acts of Trade and Navigation. He argued that Free"lrade,
it was against all practice to refuse a free trade to any
island, and that the King thereby lost 10,0002. a year
Customs in Barbadoes (862). There is one thing, he says.
xlvi PREFACE.
that their Lordships [of Trade] may admit as a maxim,
that wheresoever you intend to plant a new Colony you
must make their port a free port for all people to trade
with them that will come. He conceives the ordinary way
taken for new Plantations to be a little erroneous, for if it
be by societies of noblemen, gentlemen, and merchants,
the two first will commonly venture no more than they
will throw away at dice or cards. The merchants do it
in hopes of extraordinary gain, but if the return come not
in, the gentleman grows suspicious, the merchant grows
"restie," and the people employed upon the place will
make the best use of their time ; but when the machine
fails that supplies the people with provisions, &c., the
engine must needs stand still, but if the bucket goes into
the well the rope must needs go with it. He reasons why
the Act of Trade and Navigation in England will certainly
in time be the ruin of all His Majesty's Plantations. Who
is the loser? His Majesty and all his poor subjects who
labour for him (p. 424). When the Lords of Trade read
these opinions and arguments, they took notice of his
notion for a liberty of trade as necessary for settling a
new plantation as dangerous and prejudicial to England
itself, and resolved to give him a check for upholding this
maxim of free trade. His insisting upon the inconvenience
of the Act of Trade and Navigation confirmed their Lord-
ships in the resolution of returning their severest censures
of these "dangerous principles" contrary to the settled
laws of the Kingdom and the apparent advantage of it.
Still, upon the whole, their Lordships agreed to return their
acknowledgments and approbation of his " discourse "
(1084). In their report to the King, the Lords, " on tho
main matter " of this business, a dispensation of the Acts
of Trade and Navigation, remark that they need not lay
before His Majesty the evil consequences that any subjects
PREFACE. xlvii
should presume to petition against the laws they live under
and call them grievances ; the whole frame of the trade
and navigation would be destroyed by such a dispensation,
which could only be done by His Majesty in Parliament,
the whole nation being concerned in it. They conceive
His Majesty's subjects of the Plantations would hardly
presume to make any address of this kind to His Majesty
(714 i., n.) were they not connived at by His Majesty's
Governors, " and this we find to be the ground of this
particular case," for if not the prompter Governor Atkins
is the consenter with the inhabitants, and that he labours
with more arguments than they do themselves, when it
was the duty of the Governor on the contrary to have
suppressed any such address. Their Lordships were there-
fore of opinion that it was very necessary for His Majesty's
service that Governor Atkins should by letter from His The King's
Majesty be severely reprehended for his error and mistake c e en gure.
by his concurrence in encouraging the people, and that
for the future he should suppress any such notions, which
tend to the ruin of trade (1116). And he was severely
censured, although the King " chose rather to caution him
upon this occasion," as a perusal of the King's letter to
Sir Jonathan Atkins, which is printed verbatim at
pp. 510-11, will show.
The King having dissolved the Council of Trade and
Plantations by Order in Council of 12th March 1675, com-
mitted what was under their management to a Committee
of the Privy Council, who were appointed for matters
relating to Trade and Plantations, five to be a quorum,
and to meet at least once a week and report their pro-
ceedings to the King (461, 603). One of the first acts of
the new Board was to address a circular letter to all the
Governors of the Plantations and to enclose heads of
inquiry to which each Governor was required to send full
xlviii
PEEK ACE.
Leeward
Islands,
Governor
Sir William
Staple ton.
Sir Charles
Wheler
and the
restitution
of St. Chris-
topher's.
Colonel
Philip
Warner.
answers of tho condition of the Plantation under his
Government, the laws, revenue, officers, civil, ecclesiastical,
and military forces in the King's pay, number of planters
and people, trade, in short a complete account of the
state and condition of the Colony (648-50). The answers
to these queries received from the respective Governors are
of considerable value, more especially those from Governor
Sir Jonathan Atkins of Barbadoes, Governor Sir William
Stapleton of the Leeward Islands, and Governor Lord
Vaughan of Jamaica (800, 973, 1152), as they contain an
exhaustive historical summary of the several islands at
that particular period.
Sir Charles Wheler, Colonel Stapleton' s predecessor in
the Government of the Leeward Islands, had fallen into
the King's disgrace. The Articles agreed upon between
Sir Charles and Mons. de Baas concerning the restitution
of St. Christopher's (762-3) were not approved by King
Charles, and certain orders that Governor Wheler had
given, prejudicial to the King of " Denmark's right and
jurisdiction on the island of St. Thomas, His Majesty
thought fit to disavow, and " has given evidence of our
" dislike of his conduct in that and other things by
" recalling him " (397). In an elaborate report of the
Committee of Council for Plantations to the King (756),
the principal points of difference between England and
France in connexion with the restitution of St. Christopher's
are clearly defined, and in this report and many other
papers calendared the proceedings of Sir Charles Wheler
are explained, and with his numerous letters describe all
the negotiations, in which the French Minister Colbert and
our own ambassador at Paris had a considerable share.
Now Colonel Philip Warner, son of Sir Thomas Warner,
was Deputy Governor of Antigua under Colonel Stapleton,
the Governor-in-Chief, and concerned in a wholesale
PREFACE.
massacre of Indians of Dominica, in which his pretended half-
brother, Indian Warner, a reputed natural son of Sir Thomas,
was killed. Early in February 1675 Governor Stapleton gent
an account of this affair to the Council for Plantations
(428). The Indians of Dominica, he wrote, have again His massacre
. of Indians,
committed murders and rapines upon Antigua, whereupon
we empowered the Deputy Governor with six small com-
panies of foot to go to Dominica to be revenged on those
heathens " for their bloody and perfidious villanies," who
killed 80, took some prisoners, destroyed their provisions,
and carried away most of their periagoes and canoes, as
their warlike vessels are called. His pretended brother,
Indian "Warner (reputed natural son to Sir Thomas), who
was a great villain, fell amongst his fellow heathens.
The account of Governor Sir Jonathan Atkins of
Barbadoes gives rather a different complexion to "the
intemperate actings " described above. He says one
Warner, Lieutenant-Governor of Antigua, " by an action
of the greatest inhumanity," from what provocation he
cannot tell, transported seven companies to Dominica,
" a dependent of this Government," without taking any
notice or complaint to Sir Jonathan, Warner's brother
having a commission from Barbadoes as Lieutenant-
Governor for the King, " the only person in these parts that
" asserted the English interest and suffered imprisonment
" and irons during the war for his service to the King."
Colonel Philip coming ashore, his half-brother, " for they
had both one father," joined him with the Leeward
Indians to take account of the Windward Indians for
injuries done to Antigua. After the action Philip invited
his half-brother and his party to a treat, and having made
them drunk with rum, caused them all to be massacred,
not sparing his brother or little children. Governor
Atkins incloses the examination of the master of the
72843. d
1 PREFACE.
sloop who was in the whole action " wherein you will find
" a very tragical but I fear a very true story, the man
" being a serious and intelligent man of his quality"
(439). "William Hamlyn, aged 23, commander of the sloop,
deposed that in company with two ships they arrived with
300 men at Dominica on Christmas Day (1674). They
were met by Thomas "Warner who agreed to assist Philip
with 60 Indians, about 40 were killed including three
drawn by a flag of truce to come on board. Then Colonel
Warner invited Thomas Warner and his Indians to the
number of 60 or 70 men, women, and children to an
entertainment of thanks, and having made them very
drunk, gave a signal and some of the English fell upon
and destroyed them. Afterwards an Indian calling him-
self Thos. Warner's son came on board Philip Warner's
ship and told him he had killed his father and all hia
friends and prayed to be killed also, holding his head aside
to receive a blow which, by Philip's order, was given him
and he was thrown overboard. Deponent took an Indian
boy in his arms but he also was killed, and he believed
this slaughter was by the sole direction of Philip Warner,
against the consent of his officers, several of whom he
heard declare against it, and Cornet Samuel Winthrop
ordered to kill Thomas Warner refused to do so (439 i.).
When the news of this massacre reached England,
Charles II. directed a warrant to the Attorney-General to
prepare a Bill containing a special commission of Oyer
and Terminer authorising Governor Atkins and others to
hear this matter and pass sentence agreeable to law and
justice "to the end that so inhuman an attempt should
* be duly examined and the persons convicted brought
" to condign punishment." But the warrant passed no
further and a letter instead was signed by the King to
Sir Jonathan Atkins, and " entered in the Plantation Book,"
PREFACE. li
requiring him to try the parties accused according to the
powers of his Commission (552). The letter in question
(601) from Secretary Sir Henry Coventry is one of the
most remarkable in this volume. In it Governor Atkins King
is told that His Majesty is highly offended, and comm nds remarkable
that speedy and exemplary justice be done upon the person
guilty of this inhuman act, that the offenders be proceeded
against according to law, so that justice may bo vindicated
and the innocent blood that hath been so barbarously spilt
fully avenged. And since, Secretary Coventry writes,
" there is reason to believe that the Windward Islands
" may have been much alienated from the English by
" this action, His Majesty leaves it to the Governor to
" give that people some signal and public demonstration
" of his justice upon the authors by sending them some
" heads and by some other proper way which he shall
" think fit that they may be satisfied of the detestation
" His Majesty and the whole nation hath of this pro-
" ceeding of Colonel "Warner's, and how ready His Majesty
" will be to punish severely any of his subjects that shall
" infringe the good understanding he desires to have pre-
" served between them and his subjects." Governor
Atkins wrote later on of the ill-effects of this massacre,
" None can resolve the strength of the Indians, and by the
" late attempt of Colonel Warner all correspondence with
" them is taken from us by the death of Indian Warner "
(p. 421). Governor Stapleton reported to the Lords of
Trade, 30th April 1675, that two of his Deputy Governors
ere going home, Colonel Philip Warner "for some occasions
f his own," and his own brother from Montserrat for his
health (544). On his arrival in England towards the end Colonel
Vr fl,mPl*
>f June, he was by the King's command committed committed
prisoner to the Tower " charged with the murder of his ! the r
" brother Thomas Warner, an Indian, and the destruction
Hi PREFACE.
" of other Indians, His Majesty's friends " (681, 688, 869).
There are several Orders in Council and other papers about
the venue of Colonel Warner's trial whether in Dominica
or Barbadoes (688, 699, 705), which was ultimately fixed
to take place in Barbadoes whither Warner was shipped.
Governor Stapleton sent to the Lords of Trade a very
strong letter in Warner's behalf with several depositions
tending to show the untrustworthiness of Hamlyn's
evidence, and that the child commonly called Indian
Warner was simply an Indian slave (748, 748 i.-iv.).
Colonel Warner himself, in a petition to the King, prays
that his case may be re-heard in order that he may prove
his innocence; annexes papers in his justification and
reasons for being allowed to put in bail " in case it should
be judged necessary to try him " (750, 750 1., n.). And
then his mother, late wife of Sir Thomas Warner and
widow of Sir George March, petitions the King that her
son may have liberty to go to the petitioner's house at
Limehouse, " that she may take care of his health, he
being dangerously sick," finding security for his ap-
pearance (751). But Colonel Warner remained a prisoner
in the Tower until a warrant, passed on 28th March 1676,
to the Constable of the Tower to deliver Colonel Philip
Warner into the custody of Captain Wright, to be by him
Sent to conveyed on board His Majesty's ship " Phoenix " in the
Thames, and conveyed to Barbadoes (855). After his trial
Colonel Warner wrote to Secretary Williamson : " This
<{ brings the good tidings of my deliverance after full
" twelve months' imprisonment in England." Ho was
brought to a public trial on 8th September 1676. His
judges were 25 gentlemen from the Leeward Isles and
Barbadoes, the jury from Barbadoes only. Warner says
His trial and there was " great search to find evidence against me,
acquittal. ^ut none f oun( j ^ u t to my advantage." Hamlyn proved
PREFACE.
a perjured rogue, so the grand jury acquitted "Warner and
he was discharged by proclamation. He was returning to
Antigua " where I promise myself a great deal of future
content in a private retired life" (1029). Governor Atkins,
in a letter to the Lords of Trade inclosing the report of Comments
of Governors
the proceedings on the trial, says, Warner denied the whole Atkins and
fact and left it to proof which with art enough on all
sides was easily carried, for the first informer being gone
or carried away it was easy to persuade others who were
in the action that by accusing "Warner they would condemn
themselves. The matter of fact is most evident, though
it may be with all circumstances not so ; but Governor
Atkins leaves it to His Majesty and their Lordships
judgment to determine. It has taken away a kind of
outwork which secured the people of Barbadoes when
they went for wood and other necessaries, and he doubts
whether those gentlemen of the Leeward Isles will sleep
very quietly for the Indians never forgive or forget
injuries (1040, 1040 I.). But Governor Stapleton's com-
ments should also be quoted. Colonel Warner, he says, is
after great sufferings come off with credit by a learned
ignoramus of the grand jury, and was cleared by pro-
clamation, which could not be otherwise unless they would
hang him, right or wrong. The fellow who falsely deposed
against him is to be sent to Holland in irons, upon a letter
Stapleton wrote to the Governor of Curasao to have him
sent thither or punished for stealing 30 odd negroes from
the English part of St. Christopher's which he did twice,
and other felonious acts (1151).
By an Order in Council of 18th May 1677, Colonel Colonel
\VfirriGi*
Philip Warner was put out of the government of Antigua, dismissed
and " any other employment or trust in the King's service " service" 88
(750 ii.).
Articles for the surrender of Surinam to the Dutch were
liv
PREFACE.
Surrender
of Surinam
to the
Dutch.
English
inhabitants
transported
to Jamaica.
agreed upon by Colonel William Byam and Commander
Crynssens on 16th March 1667, and confirmed by the
Treaty of Breda, wherein it was provided that if any of
the inhabitants should at any time intend to depart they
should have power to do so and sell their estates, but this
not having been performed was, by the Treaty of West-
minster of F.ebruary 1673, agreed to be executed. It was
not, however, until early in 1675 that the States General
issued their orders to Captain Vorsterre, then Governor of
Surinam, to conform to this resolution, and King Charles
appointed Commissioners to effect the entire execution of
the treaty, and to embark on His Majesty's ships the
King's subjects and transport them with their slaves,
goods, and estates to some of the English colonies (487).
We have a complete account of the proceedings of the
King's Commissioners in their correspondence, and more
particularly in the " Narrative " presented by Edward
Cranfield to the Lords Committee for Plantation on 18th
May 1676 (683-4). From this it appears that they sailed
from the Downs on 6th April 1675, and arrived at Surinam
the beginning of the following June. The King's Com-
missioners then visited in person the several ** divisions "
to confer with His Majesty's subjects and encourage them
to embark. But Governor Vorsterre demurred to allowing
the Jews to go, who said his orders were only to let the
English go, for he found more Jews would depart than he
expected, and feared it might too much weaken the Colony.
From a list taken it was found there were but 130 Dutch
inhabitants besides the garrison, who, with the merchants
in the town, made up about 140 more. Having prepared
a list of the passengers and proportioned them to the
ships it was found absolutely necessary to employ all
(three) ships. The Commissioners took leave of the
Governor on 12th August 1675, and all His Majesty's
PREFACE. IV
subjects petitioned to be transported to Jamaica without
touching elsewhere, no person wishing to go for England
or Virginia. After a tedious passage they arrived at
Jamaica on 8th September, and His Majesty's letters were
delivered to the Governor, who afforded them all the
accommodations His Majesty directed (932). A list of
the names of the King's subjects and slaves transported
in His Majesty's " Hercules," " America,'' and " Henry
and Sarah," from Surinam to Jamaica, show the total to
have been 1,231 persons (675 VIL). The list of those of
the Hebrew nation willing to go, but hindered by the
Dutch Governor of Surinam, comprise 10 persons with
322 slaves (675 v.). The Lords of Trade and Plantations
reported to the King on 30th May 1676 that they found,
by a particular narrative of Cranfield's proceedings, that
he had conveyed from Surinam to Jamaica 250 of His
Majesty's subjects, all whites, and 981 slaves ; that he had
adjusted all differences in accounts, and brought them off
as much savers as could be expected, leaving very few or
none, unless Jews whose coming away the Governor
obstructed ; and that this number has been of considerable
advantage to Jamaica, so their Lordships " presume to
" signify that ho has in all points discharged himself with
" fidelity and success, and to recommend him to His
" Majesty's favour" (684, 932); the King approved of
this report by an Order in Council of 31st January 1677.
A list of ships " entertained " by the Royal African Royal
*
Company, and the number of " negroes delivered," and
the "negroes ordered" from Christinas 1674 to Christmas
1675 for Barbadoes, Nevis, Jamaica, and Virginia shows
a total of 7,025 negroes (512). An account of negroes
laden aboard five ships by the agents of the Royal African
Company, and sold at Barbadoes between March and June shipped
1676, gives the total number shipped 1,588, and sold 1,372, aud sold
Ivi PREFACE.
besides 224 (sic) which could not be sold there, and were
sent to Nevis, and 200 for Jamaica (1102 I.). In reply to
a complaint that they very scantily supplied Barbadoes
with negro servants, the Company said (July 1676) that
they had been settled little above four years, and in the
first two, navigation was obstructed by the Dutch war.
The third year the Company most vigorously prosecuted
their trade and sent out 15 ships to the coast of Africa,
and ordered six of them to Barbadoes with about 2,000
negroes. Last year (1675) they sent 20 ships to Africa,
and appointed eight of them with about 3,000 negroes
to that island. It was alleged the Company sold their
price. negroes at 201. and 221. per head, but their books show
the price to have been 151. per head, and that there
remained owing to them about 70,OOOL This present
year the Company have sent ships and intend more (911)..
Rebellion The rebellions of negroes in Barbadoes, and more
of Negroes in ,. , , . T
Jamafcaand particularly in Jamaica, were a frequent source of
Barbadoes. anxiety and of great danger to the inhabitants. " When
" the negroes found any English straggling in the woods
" they butchered them with lances," wrote Vice-Admiral
Goodson from Jamaica in 1656 ; and another of Crom well's
officers reported they received opposition from the negroes,
who slew about 40 of our soldiers a month since (251-7),
so the English soldiers were obliged in self-defence, and for
their own safety, to destroy the negro settlements in the
Island (335). " The enemy in our bowels, to whom our
" lives have been a prey, and many men subjected to
" their mercy, the negroes I mean (wrote the Steward
" General in Jamaica), are now become our bloodhounds,
" and we are daily making depredations on them, and
" they are in our behalf more violent and fierce against
" their fellows than we possibly can be " (345).
In 1675, Governor Atkins reported from Barbadoes " a
PREFACE, Ivii
damnable design " of the negroes to destroy them all. He
found the rebellion far more dangerous than was at first
thought, for it had spread over most of the plantations,
especially amongst the Cormantin negroes, who are much
the greater number, and a warlike and robust people. He
had been forced to execute 35 of them, which he believed
had set a period to that trouble (690). At a meeting .of
the Assembly of Barbadoes on 25th November 1675, it
was ordered that the freeing of Fortuna, a negro woman
belonging to Gyles Hall, "sent in recompense of her
" eminent services in discovering the intended rebellion
" of the negroes, be recommended to the succeeding
" Assembly" (712). In Jamaica a proclamation was
issued by the Governor and Council to put in execution
all the clauses of an Act for the right ordering and
government of the negroes, there having "lately been
" several insurrections and rebellions of negroes to the
" great disturbance and peace and planting of this island "
(661-741). At a meeting of the Council early in 1676
Governor Lord Vaughan reported that the rebellious
negroes were not yet reduced, and 20 good men were
ordered to be kept in pay at least two months, or until
said negroes be reduced, and rewards were promised for Rewards for
the taking and killing the ringleaders ; for the negro called * 11
Peter 20/. sterling, for Scanderberg 15Z., for Doctor 10J., Negroes.
and for all the rest of the rebellious party 61. per head,
according to the Act. Six Spanish negroes were to be
sent over to assist with their lances (793). " Some
Hunters," who had offered their services in pursuing and
subduing the negroes, were encouraged and furnished
with all things necessary at the public charge (820).
Then the Governor wrote home that he had had some
trouble with rebellious negroes, eight or nine have been
taken and executed, and the rest not heard of for a
72843. e
Iviii
PREFACE,
Christening
of Negroes ;
their ad-
mission to
Quakers
Meetings.
fortniglit, " so I hope they are wholly reduced or dispersed "
(822). The question of christening negroes and " what
the French and other nations practise in this particular "
was considered by the Lords of Trade and Plantations
(783-4), while in Barbadoes the Assembly were debating
whether the actings of the Quakers, which may be of
dangerous consequence, were to be reformed by law, in
relation to their admitting negroes to their meetings under
pretence of converting them to the Christian religion
(p. 364). lad
In conclusion, I wish to say that every statement in
this Preface is taken from the papers abstracted in the
volume.
"W. NOEL SAINSBURY.
151, Sutherland Avenue, "W.,
5th December 1893.
LIST OF COLON [AL ENTRY BOOKS.
No.
COLONY.
DATK.
No.
COLON v.
DATE.
1
i AFRICA
1672 to 1686
25
HUDSON'S BAY
1687
2
ANTIGUA - - Acts
1684 1693
26
JAMAICA
1658 Nov. 30
3
PROVIDENCE ISLAND
1630 1650
27
,,
1661 to 1674
4
630 1C41
28
1667 1677
29
>.
1674 1681
5
BARBADOES -
1627 1674
30
1681 1684
6
1675 1680
31
1684 1687
*
t
1680 1688
32
- -
1686 1690
8
>>
1688 169J
83
Inclosures
1685 1689
9
10
11
t , Inclosures
'
- Minutes of "1
Council - J
1678 1703
1679 1709
1660 1686
34
35
36
- Minutes of~l
Council -J
1661 1672
1672 1678
1682 1690
12
13
t
- Minutes of!
Assembly j
1687 169.-)
1670 1683
37
38
- M inutes of "1
Assembly J
- Acts
1661 1679
1672
14
1684 1694
39
,,
1674
15
- Printed Acts
1643 1762
40
, -
1675
16
"
1682 1691
41
1677
42
1678
17
18
BERMUDAS -
~
1615 1686
1686 1691
43
44
" "
1681 1683
1681 1737
19
- Inclosure
1688 July 24
45
LEEWAHD ISLKS
1670 1671
20
21
22
CAROLINA
. *
1663 to 1683
1674 1685
1682 1698
46
47
48
- Minutes of"!
Council -J
1675 1681
i
1681 1689
1680 1695
23
Grants of Land
1674 1765
49
- Acts
1668 1672
24
{Charters
Acts
1663 1665
1682 1688
50
51
166^ 1692
1680 169^
y 72843.
List of Colonial Entry Books continued.
No.
COLONY.
DATE.
i
No.
74
COLONY. DATE.
52
MARYLAND - (also Patent)
1632 to 1687
NEW YORK - Commissions
1686
53
54
- Acts
- Minutes of \
Council -/
/ \
/
1640 1676
1686 1689
75
76
- Minutes of "1
Council -J
PENNSYLVANIA
1687 to 1694
1681 1694
55
MOXTSERRAT Printed Acts
1668 1740
56
- Acts
1680 1721
77
SURINAM -
1667 1674
78
- 1668 1677
57
NEVIS - - Acts
1664 ,, 1669
58
-
1680 1735
79
VIRGINIA - - - 1606 1662
80
- - 1675 1681
59
60
61
62
NEW ENGLAND
1620 1639
1661 1679
1679 1688
1688 1693
81
82
83
84
_
- Minutes of \
Council - J
1676 1677
1681 K85
1685 1690
1680 1695
63
- Naval Office \
Accounts -j
1686 1717
85
- Minutes of \
Assembly J
1683 1695
64
- Minutes of \
Council - J
1686 1695
86
- Acts and "1
Journals J
1661 1682
87
- Abstracts 1
of Acts- J
1661 1684
65
NEWFOUNDLAND
1623 1671
88
- Acts
1661 1702
66
1677
89
- Printed Acts
1661 1715
90
1661 1732
67
NEW HAMPSHIRE -
1679 1686
91
-
1661 1752
92
PLANTATIONS GENERAL
1661 1672
68
NEW YORK
1664 1687
93
1663 1684
69
1687 1692
94
1670 1674
70
1674 1684
95
1674 1679
71
Grants of Land
1664 1765
96
le 1 "* 1677
72
- Acts
1667
97
,
1675 1687
73
- Patents
168G
98
1677 May
Ixi
List of Colonial Entry Books continued.
No.
COLONY.
DATE.
No.
COLONY.
DATE.
99
100
PLANTATIONS GENERAL
1679 to 1684
1687 1696
105
106
JOURNALS OF THE BOARD!
OF TRADE/
1677 to 1679
1679 1682
101
102
103
LISTS OF ACTS
1667 1758
1668 1758
1687 1758
107
108
109
1682 1684
1684 1686
1686 1690
104
JOURNALS OF THE BOARD \
OFTRADB J
1675 1677
110
PLANTATIONS GENERAL
1667 1681
COLONIAL PAPERS.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
A D D E N I) A.
15741674.
1574.
March 22. 1. Petition of divers gentlemen of the west parts of England to
the Queen. To allow of an enterprise by them conceived, and with
the help of God, under the protection of her Majesty's most
princely name and goodness, at their charges and adventure to be
performed for discovery of sundry rich and unknown lands, fatally,
and it seemeth by God's providence, reserved for England and for
the honor of her Majesty. Of which attempt petitioners have
good and probable reasons to assure them easy and feasible means
to attain it, and the commodities be large, without injury or just
offence to any Prince of Christendom, as they will be ready to show
where her Majesty shall command. And that her Majesty will
give petitioners encouragement with her Royal Grant and Promise,
that when their travels shall fall out to good and profitable effect,
petitioners with their Company and Partners may have such
assurance and privilege of her Majesty's most princely goodness, as
it shall not be lawful for others to enjoy the fruit of their labours
and adventures. " And we shall not only carry, together with the
benefit of Christian faith, the most honorable renown, already
largely known to the known world of your Majesty's most noble
virtues and sovereignty into the farthest parts of the Earth, but
also daily pray to God long to preserve your highness with all
increase of honor and dominion." Endorsed, " Supplication of
certain gentlemen in the west parts for a new navigation. Sir
Humfrey Gilbert, Sir George Peckham, Mr. Carlile, and Sir Ri.
Grenville and others, Voyages." [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 95, No, 63.]
March 22. 2. Certain Gentlemen of the West Country to the Lord [Lincoln]
High Admiral of England. They are desirous to adventure them-
selves and their goods in matter of service honorable and profitable
to the Queen's Majesty and the Realm with like hope of benefit to
arise to such as shall be adventurers therein ; and having sundry
ways good and probable causes to lead them both by their own
understanding and the help of such whose skill and experience they
have used, have conceived a means by discovery of certain new
72843. Wt. 7656.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
157 K
trades of navigation and traffic to advance the honour of their
Sovereign Lady and Country, with enlarging the bounds of
Christian religion, the beneficial utterance of the Commodities of
England, the increase and maintenance of seamen, the relief of the
people at home and sundry other commodities such as his wisdom
can easily see to enaue thereof. Beseech him to peruse the inclosed
Articles and command them to attend his Lordship, that they may
make more ample declaration of the probability thereof, the means
they have to attain it, the commodities to grow by it, the easy
resolving of such difficulties as may be objected to without injury
to any Prince or country or any just offence of amity, and lastly
how the whole shall be performed without her Majesty's charge
or adventure, or any other trouble more than her gracious allowance
of their good meaning and direction of their proceedings. Beseech
him to take the same into his protection and commend the same to
her Majesty. Enclosed,
2. I. The articles referred to in the preceding letter from certain
Gentlemen of the West Country, divided into the
following heads, viz. : The matter itself offered to be
attempted. That it is feasible. What means we have
comrnodiously to achieve it. The commodities to grow of
it. An answer of such difficulties and matters as may be
objected. That there is no injury offered to any Prince
or Country, or any offence of amity. The offer for
performance thereof without Her Majesty's charge or
adventure. Matters thought upon to be prayed for Her
Majesty's good allowance of the enterprise and direction of
the proceedings, always both referring the peculiarities
thereof to farther consideration, and to his Lordship's
advice and judgment. Together, 6 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol.
95, Noa. 64, 64 /.]
1578.
June 11. 3. Letters Patent to Sir Humphrey Gylberte, of Compton, co.
Devon, and to his heirs and assigns. To discover remote heathen
and barbarous lands not possessed by any Christian Prince or
people and to hold and enjoy same with all commodities, jurisdictions,
and royalties both by sea and land. Said Sir Humphrey and all
who by license from us our heirs and successors shall travel thither,
to inhabit there and build and fortify, at the discretion of said
Sir Humphrey, the statute against fugitives or any other law to the
contrary notwithstanding. With power to take to inhabit there so
many of our subjects as shall willingly accompany him with
shipping and furniture so that none v be specially restrained by us
our heirs and successors. To hold and enjoy the soil so to be
discovered, and all cities, towns, castles, and villages with the
royalties and jurisdictions and power to dispose of same according
to the laws of England paying the fifth part of gold and silver, to
be holdcn for ever by said Sir Humphrey his heirs and assigns of
us our heirs and successors by homage. With power for defence to
resist by sea and land all attempting to inhabit within said
countries, or within 200 leagues thereof, without the special license
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 3
1578.
of said Sir Humphrey, where within six years next ensuing he or
his associates shall make their dwellings, or that shall attempt
unlawfully to annoy either by sea or land said Sir Humphrey and
to seize their ships and goods, our subjects driven by tempest or
shipwreck only excepted, and to detain as lawful prize. All such
countries hereafter to be possessed and inhabited as aforesaid shall
be of the allegiance of us our heirs and successors, and all whose
names shall be entered in some of our Courts of Record with the
assent of said Sir Humphrey his heirs and assigns, shall now in this
journey for discovery, or in the second journey for conquest, here-
after travel to said countries, being born within our allegiance shall
enjoy all the privileges of free denizens and persons native of
England and within our allegiance, any law or custom to the
contrary notwithstanding. With power to punish, pardon, and
govern all who adventure in said voyages or inhabit said countries,
or within 200 leagues of same, or shall inhabit within six years
next ensuing according^ to laws established by said Sir Humphrey
for the better government of said people as aforesaid so they be
agreeable to the laws of England. With power to Sir Wm. Cecil
Lord Burleigh, or to the Lord Treasurer for the time being, and any
four of the Privy Council, to license said Sir Humphrey to transport
the goods of his or their associates and other necessary commodities,
any law to the contrary notwithstanding. Provided always that if
said Sir Humphrey or any other by his license rob or spoil by sea
or land the subjects of any King or Prince in amity with us and
after proclamation shall not make restitution and satisfaction, said
Sir Humphrey and all inhabitants of said countries so to be
discovered be put out of our allegiance and protection, and it shall
be free to all to pursue them with hostility as not being our
subjects. "The llth day of June tte twenteth yere of our raigne,"
i.e., 11 June 1578. [Patent Roll, 21 Eliz., part 4, m. 8.] This is
the only patent on this roll which has the regnal year, and as will
be remarked it is enrolled on the Patent Roll of 21 Eliz., which
regnal year did not commence until 17 Nov. 1578. Printed
Hakluyt III., 174-176, but with the concluding words "Anno
Domini 1578," which are not on the Patent Roll
Sept. 23. 4. Sir Humphrey Gylberte to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham.
Greenway. Knowing him to be his principal patron as well as furthering and
procuring him her Majesty's favour and license for performance of
his sea voyage, as also many other ways having found him his good
and honorable friend, thinks it his duty to signify that he left this
port of Dartmouth on the 23rd instant, September, accompanied by
11 sail, well victualled for a year, and furnished with 500 choice
soldiers and sailors. Their stay so long in these parts proceeded
through his London shipping not coming down till 25th August.
Trusts this will be no impeachment to their enterprise, the season of
the year serving very fit for their travel. Is and will be ever ready
to do him any service that shall lye in his power, praying a con-
tinuance of his favour and good speeches to Her Majesty for the
better supportation of the writer's poor credit. 1 p, [Dom.
Vol 125, No, 70.]
A 2
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1578.
Nov. 12. 5. Sir Humphrey Gylberte to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham.
Plymouth. Has ever found him his most honorable friend, so in his greatest
extremities, he means such as by false suggestions\may^hazard his
credit, he will never despair to find less favour. During the long
contrary winds Mr. Knowles has forsaken Gylberte 's company,
and drawn as many as he could allure. Complains that he
(Gylberte) never offered such cause as might either be a discredit
to sustain, or any occasion to break off so honest an enterprise.
Once before Knowles refused the journey, but was reconciled by
Sir John Gilbert " and the breach by me omitted and forgotten."
Knowles often and openly persuaded Gylberte's company and
gentlemen to his disgrace, and has often and openly said he
accounted himself equal in degree to the best Knight and better
than the most in England (sic). Describes the intolerable
disorders " committed by Knowles to my great disgrace ; when I
entreated him to my table, he answered me that he had money
to pay for his dinner as well as I. and that he would leave my
trencher for those beggars that were not able to pay for their
meals, which seemed a bare thanks for my good will." He
threatened to hang a Captain and Gentleman of Gylberte's com-
pany called Morgan [Miles Morgan who was lost at sea soon after]
in living little or nothing inferior to Knowles ; refused to deliver
up two of his men for the murder of John Leonard in Plymouth ;
and let a notorious pirate go "which bred me great slander of
suspicion of piracy." Told Knowles privately by way of counsel,
as his friend without quarrel or words of offence, that he used him
(Gylberte) somewhat too disdainfully, considering the good will he
bare him and the place he held, and that if he used himself in this
sort and upheld such as offended, by his countenance, it would not
only kindle dislike between them, but also breed faction and
sedition. Upon this only it' pleased Knowles to take hold, saying
that Gylberte called him proud and seditious and so heinously
racked it, that Knowles left his company and consort. Knowles it
seems has by some of his company been persuaded to run a shorter
course, which Gylberte prays God may turn to Knowles' advance-
ment and credit " for he hath store of notorious evil men about
him, as Loveles (sic) and Callice with others." Assures Walsingham
that he (Gylberte) is for strength, as well able to perform that
which he undertook as he desired, having of his own ships seven
sail well manned and victualled. " As you have been always the
pillar unto whom I leant, so I hope you will always remain in my
just occasions such a one as I in good will and service desire to
deserve ; if God of his mercy do but give me leave and happily to
return, I then hope you shall find that I will at last perform
somewhat of that which I in thought and good will have with
uyself long promised." 2 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 126, No. 44.]
2s ov. 18. 6. Sir Humphrey Gylberte to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham.
Plymouth. Because he weighs in equal balance with life his Honor's good
opinion of him, sends inclosed certificate under the hands of the
Mayor of Plymouth and others present when Gylberte publicly
desired Knowles to declare all the causes that moved him to mislike,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 5
1578.
all of which are particularly set down in said Certificate. Truly
can guess no other cause but that Knowles' pretence was to break
off from the beginning and run this course, thereby to have colour
to arm to sea, and there withal either to learn Gylberte's enterprise
and so undertake the discovery of himself as one moved thereunto
through ambition and disdain, or else to run some shorter course.
Beseeches his Honor to impart this certificate to the Queen's
Majesty, Lord Leicester and Mr. Vice -Chamberlain. His principal
care is to satisfy Walsingham above all others, because his Honor
was the only means of Gylberte's license, and therefore as his
patron he studies principally next unto her Majesty, to maintain
himself in his good opinion. Trusts God willing to bring all things
to good pass, these crosses and thwarts notwithstanding. Moreover
Gylberte's cousin Denys accompanies Knowles in this his breacli
and retires from their consort, because Gylberte blamed him for
striking a sailor with his naked sword, who thereupon challenged
Gylberte. " If I have informed your Honor otherwise than truth,
then judge me a villian and a knave." Encloses,
6. I. Certificate of the causes of Mr. Knowles' forsaking the
journey and consort of Sir Humfrey Gylberte, alleged
before John Hele, Mayor of Plymouth, and divers other
gentlemen, 5 Nov. 1578. That Gylberte said Knowles
was factious, seditious, and proud, to which Gylberte
replied, he never called Knowles factious or seditious,
but said that if he gave countenance to men of evil
and disordered behaviour then he should nourish faction
and sedition, which words were spoken privately ; but
Knowles would not be satisfied with Gylberte's public
denial, except he would openly swear upon a book, which
Gylberte refused, saying oaths ought to be reserved for
Judges. Gylberte denied not, accusing Knowles of pride,
for he spoke words to Gylberte's disgrace and disdain,
as despising his knighthood, saying he took himself
to be a better man than 20 knights ; that he had
submitted and embased himself to serve under Sir
Humfrey ; and that when the latter had Knowles to
dinner, he answered he had money to pay for his dinner
as well as Gylberte, and would leave his trencher for those
not able to pay for their meals. " And yet notwithstanding
Sir Humphrey Gylberte took not it as any quarrell but
seemed loth to leave his company, but no courtesy or
patience of his part could persuade or content him."
Signed by Win. Hawkins, W. Rauley, Myles Morgan,
John Robartes, Edmond Eltofte, and Henrie Noell.
Together, 4, pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 126, Nos. 46, 46 /.]
Nov 18. 7. Names of the ships, officers, and .gentlemen which accom-
panied Henry Knollis in his voyage begun 18 Nov. 1578. The
Elephant, Admiral, 150 tons, Henry Knollis, Captain, his brother,
Francis Knollis, Lieut., Old Morse, Master, number of gentlemen,
soldiers, and mariners, 100, well victualled for a whole year, The
6 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1578,
barkDenye, Vice- Admiral, called! the Fame, a frigate of 72 ft. long,
Edward Deuye, Captain, number of gentlemen, soldiers, and
mariners, 30. The French bark the Francis, of 70 tons, Gregory
Fenton, Captain, whole number 30. Total 160. Capt. Sharpam
and Mr. Foscue (sic) are also near in a readiness with five ships
victualled for a year for 200 persons, bound in a like voyage. 1 p.
[Dom. Eliz., Vol. 126, No. 49.]
Nov. 19. 8. "The names of all the ships, officers, and gentlemen, with
the pieces of ordnance in them, and the number of all the soldiers
and mariners gone in the voyage with Sir Humphrey Gylberte,
Knight, General in the same, for a discovery to be made by him
who took the seas from Plymouth with seven sails, the 19th day of
Nov. 1578." Ann Ager, Admiral, 250 tons, Sir Hump. Gylberte,
General, Henry Pedly, Master, number of gentlemen, soldiers, and
mariners, 126. The Hope of Greneway, Vice- Admiral, 160 tons,
Carye Rawlye, brother to Sir H. Gylberte, Captain, number of
gentlemen, soldiers, and mariners, 80. The Falcon, Her Majesty's
ship of 100 tons, Capt. Walter Rawlye, brother to Sir H. Gylberte,
Ferdinando the Portugal, Master, number of gentlemen, soldiers,
and mariners, 70. The Red Lyon, 110 tons, Myles Morgan,
Captain, number of gentlemen, soldiers, and mariners, 53. The
Gallion, 40 tons, Richard Veall, Captain, number of gentlemen,
soldiers, and mariners, 28. The Swallow, 40 tons, John Vernye,
Captain, number of soldiers and mariners, 24. The Little Frigate
or Squirrel of 8 tons, with 8 soldiers and mariners. The whole
number of gentlemen, soldiers, and mariners in this fleet, 365 (sic
should be 389.) Well victualled with beef for 3 months, fish and
biscuits for a year at 3 biscuits a day for each man, with peas
and bones for a year, besides particular provisions. 2 pp. [Dom.
Eliz., Vol. 126, No. 49.]
Nov. 21. 9. Sir John Gilberte to Sec. Sir Francis Walsingham. Presents
Greneway. himself as one altogether ready to serve him with his poor ability,
for Walsingham's great and favorable courtesies to Gilberte's poor
brother Sir Humphrey divers and sundry times showed. Beseeches
that he may be accepted into his Honor's favor as one of that hovse
that is dedicated to his service, as he knows his good uncle Sir
Arthur Champernoune with his brother and others had gieat
courtesies from his Honor. His brother has emboldened him to
write, and has assured him of Walsingham's favour, to whon he
has made Sir John known by speeches, although not by person.
1 p. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 126, No. 50.]
Dec. 20. 1O. Sir John Gilberte to Sec. Sir Francis Walsingham. It is
reported in Court that his brother was not victualled to much
effectual purpose for such a voyage, and so scant furnished in every
way as not in ease to perform the same. Whereunto he will
answer that he himself made his brother's proportion, aid was
acquainted with the bestowing of the same in every ship. Protests
and avows upon his honesty and credit that his brother'* ships
were victualled with bread, beef, fish, beans and peas, m<al, and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 7
1578.
such other as was requisite for a long voyage, for one whole year,
by the judgment of the most best advised honors and masters in all
this county. Hopes his Honor will give credit herein, for he has
the books of every particular to show and signify the same to such
of the Lords of the Council as doubteth hereof. Doubts not yet (if
God will) his brother shall perform his voyage ; he hath all his
own ships yet with him, saving one only, wherein Mr. Noell and a
brother of Gylberte's were, which had so dangerous a leak as by
no means able to perform the voyage. Prays he will not conceive
that Gylberte would for affection. to his brother abuse his Honor
with untruths. 1 p. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 127, No. 44.]
1581.
Feb. 25. 11. Walter Rawley to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham.
Cork. Would God the service of Sir Humphrey Gylberte might be
rightly looked into, who, with the third part of the garrison now in
Ireland, ended a rebellion not much inferior to this, in two months ;
or would God his own behaviour were such in peace, as it did not
make his good service forgotten, and hold him from the perferment
he is worthy of. I take God to witness, I speak it not for affection
but to discharge my duty to Her Majesty, for I never heard nor
read of any man more feared than he is amongst the Irish nation ;
and I do assuredly know, that the best about the Earl of Desmond,
yea, and all the unbridled traitors of these parts, would come in to
him and yield themselves to the Queen's mercy, were it but known
that he were come amongst them. The end shall prove this to be
true." [Extract, Correspondence, Ireland, Vol. 80, No. 82.]
There is a letter from Sir Hump. Gylberte to Sec. Walsingham,
dated 25 Oct. 1581, in answer to the Secretary's objections to the
entertainment of Gylbertes ships in Ireland (the Ann Ager is one),
which were employed there by the Governor's arrests and com-
mands, and not by any desire of his own. He prays for what is
due to him for those services, or he shall be utterly undone, and
not able to show his head for debt. [Ireland Corresp. t Vol. 86,
No. 40.]
July 11. 12. Sir Humphrey Gylberte to Sec. Sir Francis Walsingham.
Minster Great extremity forces him earnestly to crave his Honor's speedy
eppey. furtherance of the small sum of money, remaining due to him for
her Majesty's service with three ships of his in Ireland stayed and
employed there by the Lords Justices arrests and not by his own
suit. He lost by that means above 2,000^., as he was stayed here
and could not be permitted to return to Ireland to save his ships
and goods which were stolen and carried away. His reckoning is
set down and allowed by the auditors of Ireland, and the Lord
Deputy wrote letters to the Privy Council for payment, but as yet
he can get nothing. " A miserable thing it is, that I, poor man,
having served her Majesty in wars and peace above seven and
twenty years, should be now subject to daily arrests, executions,
and outlawries, yea, and forced to gage and sell my wife's clothes
from her back, who brought me so good a living. The Queen's
Majesty hath always said that her Highness would relieve me,
and shall I now starve (without her Highness' privity) for want of
g COLONIAL PAPERS.
1581,
my own. Her Majesty did never yet deny me anything that 1
ever asked, although I never enjoyed anything to profit that ever
Her Majesty gave me." Begs his Honor to present this his pitiful
petition without delay to her Majesty's own consideration, who,
Gylberte is sure, will never detain his own from him, nor yet deny
him any reasonable suit for his relief. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 149,
No. 66.]
12. L Note out of the auditors' last book, of Sir Humphrey
Gylberte's reckonings for his ships, the " Anne Auchier,"
Relief, and Squirrel, employed in the Irish Service from
21st July to 16th October, 1579. [Correspondence,
Ireland, Vol. 69, No. 67.]
1582.
April 19. 13. " Secret advertisements "from P. H. to Sir Fras. Walsingham.
There is a muttering among the Papists that Sir Humphrey
Gylberte goeth to seek " a newe founde lande," Sir George Peckham
and Sir Thos. Gerrard go with him, Has heard it said among the
Papists that they hope it will prove the best journey for England
that was made these 40 years. Extract. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 1 551,
No. 14.]
June 6. 14. Articles of Agreement between Sir Humphrey Gylberte of
Compton, co. Devon, and Sir Thos. Gerrard of Bynne, co. Lan-
caster, and Sir George Peckham of Den ham, co. Bucks. Recites
Gylberte's patent of 11 June, 20 Eliz. [see ante No. 3]. Now said
Sir Humphrey, for better encouragement of said Sir Thomas and
Sir George and their associates, and in consideration that they
have adventured divers sums of money as principal adventurers
with said Sir Humphrey towards his now intended voyage for
discovery and inhabiting of certain parts of America so meant by
him or his assigns to be discovered as also for divers other good
considerations, said Sir Humphrey, doth covenant with said
Sir Thos. Gerrard and Sir Geo. Peckham, their heirs and assigns
that they shall at all times hereafter enjoy full power by virtue oi
said patent to discover all lands and isles upon that part o'
America between the Cape of Florida and Cape Bryton (? Breton)
and the seas adjoining, and to occupy and enjoy the same to ther
own use for ever, two islands of any four by them taken or namel
being no part of the now supposed continent at their choice out f
the lands and seas so discovered within three months after their
arrival or that of their assigns or at any time as said Sir Humphrey
or assigns shall make his or their choice of two of said four islands.
And also such quantity of said land within the supposed continent
lying as near unto said two islands as conveniently may be as shill
amount to fifteen hundred thousand acres with power to people arid
manure the same, together with all privileges, commodities, md
emoluments whatsoever, holding same of said Sir Humphrey, his htirs
and assigns, by fealty in free soccage, yielding and paying to said Sir
Humphrey ten pounds sterling, and two-fifth parts of gold, silver,
pearls, and precious stones, out of which the Queen's part reserved
by said patent is to be answered for all duties, service, and demoids
whatsoever ; also paying for every thousand acres after the first sven
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 9
1582.
years fifteen pence and two-fifth parts of gold, silver, pearl, and
precious stones there found, the Queen's part included. With free
liberty of trade to said Sir Thomas and Sir George and execution
of all laws, both marine and otherwise. And said Sir Humphrey
covenants by these presents to do his best endeavour to procure
her Majesty's leave that all who shall adventure with said Sir
Thos. and Sir George to be entered in a register book kept for that
purpose, may freely pass into those countries to remain or return
at their pleasure, and likewise said Sir Humphrey shall make such
farther assurance within three months after the first return of said
Sir Humphrey or his associates from his said vovage of discovery
in such sort as by the said Sir Thos. and Sir George, or their
learned counsel shall be reasonably and lawfully required. [Close
Roll, 24 Eliz., Part 6.]
June 6. 15. Articles of Agreement between Sir Humphrey Gylbejte of
Compton, co. Devon, and Sir George Peckham of Denham, co. Bucks.
Whereas her Majesty, by Letters Patents bearing date 11 June 1578,
hath granted to Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, for ever, free
liberty to discover lands not possessed by any Christian Prince or
People, and to occupy and enjoy the same with all commodities,
jurisdictions, &c. Said Sir Humphrey for the more speedy executing
of her Majesty's said grant, the enlargement of her Dominions, and
the better encouragement of said Sir George and his associates, and
in consideration that said Sir George hath disbursed divers sums of
money and adventured the same as principal adventurer with said
Sir Humphrey towards his now intended voyage for discovery and
inhabiting of certain parts of America so meant by him or his
assigns to be discovered, as also for other considerations, doth
covenant, with said Sir George, his heirs and assigns, that the same
Sir George, his heirs, assigns, associates, adventurers, and people
shall at all times hereafter, enjoy free liberty to discover and also
to enjoy such lands at their choice adjoining so near as conveniently
may be to the islands and lands mentioned to be conveyed by
said Sir Humphrey unto said Sir George, and to Sir Thomas
Gerrard, by Articles of Agreement of the date of these presents,
as shall amount to five hundred thousand acres, with power to
inhabit, manure, and people the same, together with all juris-
dictions, privileges, &c., for the governing, inhabiting, &c., of same,
paying to said Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, yearly for
every 1,000 acres, after the first seven years, which the same shall
be actually possessed, fifteen pence and two-fifths of gold, silver,
and precious stones, said Sir George - to have free trade in said
lands, isles, and countries, and the execution of all laws, said Sir
Humphrey to use his best endeavour to obtain Her Majesty's leave
to all adventurers, whose names shall be entered in a register book,
to travel or remain in said countries; and to discharge and save
harmless said Sir George, his heirs, &c., from the payment of the
ore and other duties, services, and demands to Her Majesty, Her
Heirs, &c.. by said Letters Patents payable ; and to make further
assurances of the premises, within three months next after the next
return of said Sir Humphrey, or his assigns, consorts, adventurers,
10 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1582.
or associates from said voyage of discovery. [Close Roll, 24
Elizabeth, Part 6, No. 1126.]
July 8. 16. A " Writing indented " by which Sir Humphrey Gylberte,
" calling to mind the mortality of mankind, and the uncertain
event of long voyages in marine and martial affairs, and carefully
foreseeing least thro' his death, captivity, or other mishap this
intended enterprise might ' quaell ' thro' the misfortunes aforesaid,
and the minority of his next heir, for the avoiding of such incon-
veniences as might thereby ensue to the hindrance of so godly and
honorable an enterprise," assigns and .appoints to his brother Sir
John Gilbert, of Greneway, co. Devon, Sir George Peckham of
Denham, co. Bucks, and William Aucher of Borne, co. Kent, all his
estate, right, and authority granted by her Majesty's Letters Patent
herein recited, bearing date at Westminster, 11 July (? June) 1578,
to the uses set down in a schedule annexed. The authority to be
to them jointly or any two of them after said Sir Humphrey's
death, or other impediments in his lifetime, whereby he shall not
be able to confirm all the grants for land to his adventurers as he
has covenanted. Also power to dispose of all offices during life,
countries, lands, &c., within said countries now to be discovered, to
govern the same, arid dispose of the revenues thereof to the best
behoof of his wife and children, as hereafter is specified, reserving
all customs, chief rents, royalties, jurisdictions, and services to his
heirs male, and to Dame Anne his wife, during minority of his
eldest son, or heir, the third part of the whole revenues before
specified, arid after his full age the fifth part thereof during life,
and also one entire seignory or lordship, fifty English miles square,
at her choice, which parcel to be for ever the jointure of the wife
of the Chief Lord and Governor of those countries under the
Crown of England, with authority to appoint two such other
seignorie.s to the behoof of such other wives of the said Governors
living together as may happen to survive their husbnnds. And to
every one of his sons the like seignories at the least, arid to every of
his daughters twenty square miles in like manner in fee simple,
and his wife and every of his children to have execution of justice
within every of their seigniories, paying unto the Chief Lord of
those countries under the Crown of England, yearly after the first
seven years that they shall manure any part theieof, for every
thousand acres fourpence with one-fifth of the gold, silver, pearl,
and precious stones, in free soccage, only serving him in his wars
forty days in the year, at their own charge, with one soldier
sufficiently furnished for every five thousand acres inhabited,
whereof as many to be horsed as may conveniently. And to
dispose of all the soil in fee farm reserving the best places for
the building of towns and forts, with sufficient for their commons
of pasture, and for the provision of the captains or governors, to be
annexed rent free for ever to every such charge ; and also for some
small portion, not exceeding ten acres, to be allowed for every
house built for the better maintenance of the poor inhabitants,
reserving some small rents for the same. Also every one that shall
be sent over by the general charge of the realm with such provisions
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. H
1582.
as is hereafter mentioned, shall have in lease for three lives, sixty
acres of land, besides common for so much cattle in summer as they
can keep in winter, with allowance for housebote, hedgebote, and
ploughbote as the country may serve, and shall pay for the same
per annum being manured, after the first three years, two shillings,
with two-fifths of gold, &c., and the tenth of all metals and sub-
minerals by the name of a toll, and after every death or alienation
a best beast for a Herriott, and one year's rent for a relief. The
provision that every of the poor must bring as aforesaid :
a quarter of wheat, 20s. ; four bushels of barley, 6s. 8d. ; four
bushels of oats, 3s. 4>d. ; two bushels of beans, os. ; two bushels of
peas, 4s. ; one hatchet, 12d. ; one pickaxe, 12<i. ; one hand-saw,
I2d. ; one spade, I2d. ; total, 43s. ; besides allowance for transpor-
tation and apparel, to be received on their arrival by an officer
appointed for the purpose, and re-delivered when they shall be
appointed their dwellings, within forty days after their arrival for
boys and wenches sent over, their portions to be appointed at the
discretion of said officers and re-delivered with their lands and
dwelling places, when married or become able to take charge of
household. Provided always that the realm of England be repaid
said charge for these poor, every third year the whole country
standing charged for the same, which can be no loss to England.
And all that come furnished at their own charge, with a sword,
dagger, and " hargabusse of encrease," shall have on the like terms
six score acres. All that shall come over upon the general provision
of the realm of England or not at the charge of other adventuiers
to be tenants to Sir Humphrey, his heirs, &c. Those coming over
at their own charge or at the charge of any adventurer who before
their arrival enrol themselves in the Master's or Purser's books of
the ship upon which they embarked, that they mind to be
adventurers, tenants, or servants 'to anyone man by them to be
named, to have free liberty to do so, for which neither Sir
Humphrey, his heirs nor successors, shall be charged to give any
land. Every gentleman "or such person as shall be so there
allowed," that shall bring five men at his own charge, and furnished
as aforesaid, to have in fee simple, two thousand acres of land, and
he that shall send the like number in like sort, one thousand
acres, each man so brought to have six score acres in fee simple,
paying for a fine ten shillings for every hundred acres so allotted,
and yearly after the first three years, twenty shillings rent for
every thousand acres. No man to be capable of those benefits
unless an adventurer in the two next voyages, without special
allowance of Sir Humphrey or his assigns ; every one of their men
to have allowed in fee simple six score acres, paying for a fine
twenty shillings, and yearly after the first three years two shillings
and sixpence, together with two-fifths of gold, &c., and the tenth
of metals and grub-minerals, and after every death of the chief lord
of that soil or alienation of the land, a best beast and one year's
rent. Similar proviso for every man that shall bring thither ten
men, the proportions of land being doubled, " and so more or less
according to the number that he shall then bring." And every
wife that brings five men or upwards in the next two voyages, to
12 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1582.
be allowed also during their lives a third part, and every one of
their children a fourth part, of as much as their husbands and
fathers had heretofore set down, paying rateably as their husbands
and fathers should have done. Every tenant to sixty acres of land
to maintain a longbow and a sheaf of arrows together with a
sword, dagger, and a wooden target. Every man of six score acres
to do the like, with increase of a caliver furnished; and of
240 acres, to keep in his house an able man besides himself,
furnished for a " hargabyzier," to serve in the wars. Every
gentleman maintaining five men, and having 2,000 acres, to keep a
light horse furnished for the wars " after such time as God shall
send sufficient horses in those parts, and in the meantime to keep
two men for shot, in lieu of every such horse." Every man allowed
4,000 acres to keep according to the like rates, and to build a house
for himself in the chief city of the Province, in such place agreed
upon by Sir Humphrey's assigns, payable for the same seat per
arinum, fourpence. One half-penny sterling to be levied yearly on
every acre of land and wood after the first ten years that any of
the same shall be manured, which money shall be only employed
towards the maintenance of a navy and soldiers for the general
defence of those countries, and employed with the consent of the
Chief Governor, and the more part of thirteen Councillors to be
chosen by the psople. Every minister to give yearly the twentieth
part of their whole livings ; and every landlord being a temporal
man, the fortieth part of his land towards the maintenance of
maimed soldiers, and of learning, lectures, schools, and other good
and godly uses, in such sort as is thought most meet by the chief
magistrates and law makers. Every country parish to contain just
three English miles square, and the church to be in the midst
thereof ; every minister to have besides his tythes, three hundred
acres of good land, as near to the church as conveniently may be,
with allowance of common of pasture in the waste, and other
privileges. No minister to have at one time above one benefice,
nor any at al! except he be resident thereon at least six months in
the year. Every bishop to have ten thousand acres in one seigniory,
two thousand of which to be tythe free. Every archbishop twenty
thousand acres in two seigniories. Said assigns of Sir Humphrey
not to dispose of any of the premises, any longer than during the
minority of his heirs. Four membranes or skins. [Close Roll,
24 Eliz., Part 7, m. 8.)
Aug. ? 17. Articles of petition by Sir Thomas Gerrarde and Sir George
Peckham to Secretary Sir Frajicis Walsingham. That whereas
Sir Humphrey Gylberte hath granted and assigned his Patent to
discover and possess, &c., certain heathen lands, &c., to petitioners.
They pray that all persons whose names shall be set down in a
book may have license to travel into those countries at the next
voy:ige for conquest, there to remain or return back to England at
their will. That recusants of ability may have liberty to travel
there, U|>on discharge of the penalties due to her Majesty; also
those not able to discharge the same, provided they pay when able
to do so. That none under colour of this license go to any other
', AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. IS
1582.
foreign Christian realm, or do anything tending to the breach of
any league between the Queen and any other Prince. That the
tenth person which petitioners shall carry with them, shall not have
any certainty whereupon to live or maintain themselves in England.
1 p. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 146, No. 40.]
Nov. 2. 18. Articles bipartite indented, between Sir Humphrey Gylberte
and the Merchant Adventurers with him. Said Adventurers and
their posterity, and their apprentices serving seven years, to be
wholly free of all manner of trade, in all countries to be discovered
by Sir Humphrey by virtue of her Majesty's Letters Patents to him
granted of 11 June 1578, and to sue and be sued by the name of
the Merchant Adventurers with Sir Humphrey Gylberte, until they
shall be incorporated by some other name, upon payment to Sir
Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, of half customs by said Merchant
Adventurers, and of the whole customs by said apprentices. A
perpetual staple, receipt, and repository for all manner of mer-
chandizes in said territories laden, to be kept only in the town of
Southampton; and nowhere else shall said merchandizes be dis-
charged or landed, without special license of the Governor and
Society aforesaid. Sir Humph rey, before his present departure out
of England, to nominate and appoint a Governor, Treasurer, Agent,
and Secretary and their successors ; but if Sir Humphrey be absent,
then Sir Francis Walsingham to prick a successor out of three
persons to be nominated by said Society, within twenty days of
said nomination. Eight assistants to be appointed upon first day of
August next ensuing, by and out of said societ}', to establish con-
venient orders and statutes. General Courts to be held on the first
two days of August and March in every year for ever, with power
to assemble themselves together as often as they shall think meet
for the direction of newly emergent causes. Power to admit new
Adventurers upon certain fines, with reservation of part of said
fines to Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns. Every Adventurer of
five pounds, whose name shall be set down in a Schedule of Ad-
venturers, to have one thousand acres of ground, over and above
the return of his adventure. Every Adventurer in person, and not
in goods, in this first voyage, to be free of all trade in said territories,
paying to Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, half customs for
their goods ; and every officer and gentleman, in respect of the
adventure of his person, to be admitted an Adventurer of a double
adventure, and every private person of a single adventure. Every
person that shall in this first voyage adventure in stock and in
person, to have a double proportion of land in said territories.
Every gentleman may have four adventures, and every private
man two adventures. Further privileges to those who will tarry
with Sir Humphrey, in this first voyage, in said territories eight
months after his first arrival there ; paying to Sir Humphrey, his
heirs at:d assigns, after the first seven years, as quit-rent, tea shillings
for every thousand acres yearly for ever. All Adventurers in this
first voyage with Sir Humphrey, their heirs and successors for ever,
to be free, in person and goods, of all tortures, martial laws, arrests,
and attachments whatsoever. Sir Humphrey, his wife, and all their
14 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1582.
kindred in blood, to be for ever free in said territories, and to enjoy
all privileges, without any fines whatsoever, in as large manner
as any of said Society. Provided always that none of the now
Merchants of the Muscovy Company, or of the now inhabitants of
Southampton, or the children or issue of either of them, who neither
adventured with Sir Humphrey in his first pretence of discovery,
or now in this last voyage, shall hereafter be capable of the freedom
or privileges aforesaid by any means whatsoever. In consideration
whereof Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, covenants with said
Society to confiscate and seize all goods, &c., found in said territories
belonging to any person not free of said Society, to be divided in
equal proportions between Sir Humphrey and said Society. All
those certified by Sir Humphrey to have been Adventurers in the
last pretence of discovery with him, and also all those which con-
tinued with him in the voyage until the breaking up thereof at
Kinsale in Ireland, to be as free to all intents and purposes as the
now Adventurers. Sir Humphrey, towards the comfort and relief
of the poor travellers and decayed persons of said Society, and
other good uses, to be bestowed and employed in said town of
Southampton, gives and grants to said Society ten thousand acres
of land for ever in said territories in soccage tenure, also one pound
of every his hundred pounds out of his fifth part of tines aforesaid
during fifty years, which said Society will also give to said uses in
money out of every hundred pounds to be hereafter gotten out of
the yearly profits of the whole Company for ever. Sir Humphrey
to ratify, as soon after his first arrival in said countries as may be,
to said Adventurers, their heirs and posterity, all lands, freedoms,
&c., requisite and incident thereunto. Any difference arising
between Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns, and said Society,
about any ambiguous construction of any articles in these presents
to be finally determined, by the Lord Chancellor of England.
16 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 155, No. 86.]
Dec. 12. ? 19. Additions to the preceding Articles between Sir Hum-
phrey Gylberte and the Merchant Adventurers [of Southampton].
Every person intending to go into the remote countries aforesaid
shall first enter into bond of said Society, to go such course as near
as may be, as shall be set down by said Society, and not to attempt
anything contrary to the true meaning of her Majesty's Commission
granted to 8ir Humphrey ; and, upon arrival in those countries,
to do everything to the use of said Sir Humphrey, his heirs and
successors, in such manner as the now Adventurers with Sir
Humphrey, do or ought to do according to said Articles. Power
to said Society to admit to this action for discovery any persons,
upon the conditions aforesaid, or such conditions as by said Society,
with the consent of Sir Francis Walsingham, shall be thought meet,
so that they depart from England before the end of April next, and
their names be enrolled in the records of Southampton, to enjoy
the like privileges as the now Adventurers in person with Sir
Humphrey ; but if said persons do anj'thing tending to the de-
struction of Sir Humphrey, or commit piracy or hostility, whereby
Letters Patents may be made void, those present additions in
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 16
1582.
such case to become void. Power to said Society to arm and set
out ships to discover remote, heathen, miscreant and barbarous
lands not possessed by any Christian Prince, and to people same
under the authority of her Majesty. Grant to Sir Humphrey
such lands to be occupied and governed under Sir Humphrey,
according to the Articles aforementioned, and with the privileges
therein set forth.
The high and honourable personages here underwritten, and their
heirs for ever, by the free gift and full consent of Sir Humphrey
Gylberte and the Society aforesaid, after their several adventures
herein entered, rateably as in these Articles expressed, shall have
free trade in the countries within written, now intended to be
discovered, in as ample manner as the said now Merchant Ad-
venturers :
Sir Thos. Bromley, Lord Chancellor of England ; Wm. Lord
Burghley, High Treasurer of England; Earl of Sussex, High
Chamberlain of England ; Earl of Warwick, Robert Earl of Leicester ;
Sir Christr. Hatton, Vice-Chamberlain to her Majesty ; Sir Francis
Knowles, Sir James Aero ft, Sir Walter Mildmay, Sir Henry Sydney,
and also divers others, Knights, Esquires, and Gentlemen, viz. :
Philip Sydney, Sir George Peake, Sir Henry Knevett, Thomas
Knevett, Wm. Archer and his son Win. Archer, John Dee, Anthony
Packhurst, James Parkinson, Richard Bingham, John Mawle,
Andrew Mallery, Laurence Thompson, Edward Cordell, William
Parry.
The Names and Surnames of such persons with their several
sums of money and commodities, adventured with the said Sir
Humphrey Gylberte in this present voyage of discovery, here
ensueth, viz. :
Sir Francis Walsingham - 50
Wm. Barwick, Mayor of Southampton - - 1
Edward Cotton, of Southampton - - 50
Nicholas Caplin. Merchant of do. - - 20
Robert Knaplock, of the Town of Hampton - 20
Wm. Knaplock, of Clement's Inn, gent. - - 30
Rich. Goddard, of Southampton, Merchant - 40
John Knight, of do., Ironmonger - - 10
Jlobt. Moore, of do., Merchant - - 20
John Errington, of do., do. - - 10
John Smith, of the Town of Hampton, gent. - 20
Thomas Holmes, of Southampton - 50
Francis Mills, of do., gent. - - -JO
Edward StaHbrd, of do., do. - -10
John Eyles, of do., Mercer - - 5
Barnard Courtnill, of do., Merchant - - 10
John Hoptou, of do., Draper - 5
Andrew Studlt-y, of do., Mercer - - 15
Rich. Waterton, of do., gent. - - 10
Edmund Capelin, of do., Merchant - 5
Thomas Demaresk, of do., do. - - - 5
Robert Russell, of do., Beerbrewer - $
16
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1582.
Henry Moore, of the Town of Hampton, gent. - 5
Wm. Grove, of Southampton, Mercer - - 5
Thos. Courtnill, of do., Baker - - 5
Thos. Haward, of do., Draper - - - 5
John Sedgwick, of do., Merchant - - 20
Paul Elliott, of do., Mercer - - - 5
Lawrence Grosse, of do., Mercer - - 5
Thos. Griston, of do., Shipmaster - - 5
John Grein, of do., Yeoman - - 5
Hugh Dervall, junr., of do., Mercer - 5
Christopher Kenn, Esqr. - - - 10
Wm. Eling, of Southampton - - - 5
Sampson, Thomas, of do., Beerbrewer - 5
Sir William Winter [blank in original].
William Winter, gent, [blank in original].
Helen Edmondes, of Southampton, Widow - 5
Harry Edmondes, of do., Yeoman - - 5
Thomas Clark, senr., of Burton, co. Dorset - 5
Nicholas Roche, of Southampton, Merchant - 5
Roberte Mawle, of Chalock in Kent - - 20
John Elsey, of Southampton, Merchant - 5
John Deslile, of do., do. - - 5
John Smith, of do., Tailor - - 5
Robt. Stud ley, of do., Baker - - -5
These hereunder written are free also of said trade by gift afore-
said, according to proportion of a single adventure, but not to enjoy
the division of any gains until they put in their stocks :
Henry Hopkins, of Sputhampton, Clerk.
John Calvert, of do., do.
Emery Lakes, of do., Merchant.
Thomas Dickenson, of do., Yeoman.
John Riges, of do., do.
Robt. Kenninges, of do., do.
Rich. Jackson, of do., do.
Rich. Mudford, of do., do.
George Dalton, of do., do.
Augustin Reynolds, of do.
John Favor, of do., Clerk, Merchant.
Dionis Brett, of Sale, co. Norfolk.
These also whose names are here written, which adventured with
Sir Humphrey Gylberte in his first voyage, in money or com-
modities, not inhabiting within the Town of Southampton, shall in
like sort be free of trade :
Lord North, Mr. Edmondes of the Privy Chamber, Sir Mathew
Arrundell, Sir Edward Horsey, Sir William Morgan, Sir John
Gilbert, Sir George Peckham, Chas. Arrundell, Mr. Mackwilliam,
Walter Rawley, Carew Rawley, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Edward, Henry
Nowell, Mr. Wigmore, John Dudley, Thos. Dudley, Will. Moham,
Edward Bartley, Thos. Smith Customer of London, Edmund
JCltoft, George Carrowe of Okington, Mr. Rudgwaye, Lawrence,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 17
1582.
Radford, Adrian Gilbert, George Carrowe, Charles Champernownc,
Robert Wraye, Thos. Hamond, Mr. Whelst, Edward Snelling,
Mr. Haies, gent, of Leerpole [? Liverpool], John Upton, William
Hawkins, James Hilston, Barnard Smith, John Periarn, William
Weymouth, William Martin, Lawrence Barckham, John Radford,
Simon Bowiar, George Mayer, John Amerrideth, John Robertes,
Mr. Warckhope.
Also those persons hereunder written, who adventured with
Sir Humphrey in his first voyage, and continued with him until
the breaking up thereof at Kinsale in Ireland. [There are not any
names underwritten.]
Also all other Adventurers with Sir Humphrey, of Totness and
Dartmouth, and all others adventuring with him under the name
of Sir John Gilbert, the elder brother of Sir Humphrey, Barnard
Drake, or Anthony Bridham, to be free of the traffic aforesaid.
The names of all such as now in this present discovery adventure
in person with Sir Humphrey Gylberte. [There are no names,
but a blank space left]
The names of the four principal officers of said Society, that is
the Governor, Treasurer, Agent, and Secretary, elected and chosen
by Sir Humphrey before his now departure out of England. Space
left blank. 11 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 156, No. 13.]
Dec. 12. 20. Instructions left by Sir Humphrey Gylberte unchangeably
to be observed. 1. The yellow wax is to be broken up at the
Land's End of England, and not before, for that it is for their course
only. 2. The red wax is not to be broken up before they come
upon the coast of America, or within a hundred leagues thereof.
3. The parties to whom the same are delivered are to give their
faiths not to do anything contrary to this direction. " There are
12 of the same bales for direction, delivered upon the delivery
of Articles of our Agreement, and one little roll with a label
wrapped up in red wax, and sealed as the other this 12th of Dec.
1582." Sir Humphrey would have these writings, the Letters
Patent, the Grant to the Town, and the Sea Card, and all other
things touching this matter, put into an iron chest with three
locks and not to forget to speak with Iron Simcottes, merchant of
London, at his return from Barbary, for this grant Sir Humphrey
had conference with him about before departure. The keys to be
kept, one by the Mayor of Southampton, one by Rich. Goddard,
and the third by Robert Moore, until the officers be known. 1 p.
[Dom. Eliz., Vol. 156, No. 13.]
1583.
Feb. 7. 21. Sir Humphrey Gylberte to Sec. Sir Francis Walsingham.
From my house As it hath pleased his Honor to let Gylberte understand that her
Across St. j^ a j cs ty o f her especial care had of his well doing and prosperous
success, hath wished his stay at home from the personal execution
of his intended discovery, as a man noted of no good hap by sea,
for which he is much bound to her Majesty, and knows not how to,
J 7S843 j.
18 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1.583.
deserve, but by continual prayers and his most faithful and forward
ssrvice during life, to satisfy the objections of his stay, it may
please his Honor to be advertised, that in his first enterprise he
returned with great loss, because he would not himself do nor
suffer any of his company to do anything contrary to his word
given to her Majesty and Walsingham ; for if he had not far pre-
ferred his credit before his gain, he need not to have returned so
poor as then he did. This his last stay at Hampton, hath proceeded
by south-west winds of God's making and sending, and therefore
not his fault or negligence. If guilty of delay the principal charge
is his own, and no loss to any other, his adventures being for the
most part in wares. The outrage of this winter hath been a
common hindrance to all men of this realm, southward bound :
ships driven from the Azores to this coast, without spreading a
sail a thing never heard of before ; impossible for him to have
performed his journey this winter. Seeing her Majesty is to have
n fifth of all gold and silver to be gotten, without any charge
to her Majesty, trusts her Highness will not deny him liberty to
execute that which resteth in hope, so profitable to her Majesty and
Crown. " The great desire I have to perform the same, hath cost
me first and last, the selling and spending of a thousand marks
land a year of my own getting, besides the scorn of all the world,
for conceiving so well of a matter that others held so ridiculous,
although now by my means better thought of. If the doubt be
my want of skill to execute the same, I will offer myself to be
opposed by all the best navigators and cosmographers within this
realm. If it be cowardliness, I seek no other purgation thereof
than my former service done to her Majesty. If it be the suspicion
of daintiness of diet or sea sickness, in those both I will yield
myself second to no man living, because that comparison is rather
of hardiness of body than a boast of virtue. But how little
account soever is made, either of the matter or of me, I trust her
Majesty, with her favour for my 28 years' service, will allow me
to get my living as well as I may honestly (which is every subject's
right), and not to constrain me, by idle abode at home, to beg my
bread with my wife and children, especially, seeing I have her
Majesty's grant and license under the Great Seal of England for
my departure, without the which I would not have spent a penny
in this action ; wherein I am most bound to her Majesty for her
great favour, which of all things I most desire." Protests no
man living shall serve her more faithfully. 2 pp. [Dom. Eliz.,
Vol. 158, No. 59.] There is a petition in this Volume [No. 50]
from Lady Gylberte, touching the manor of Minster in the isle of
tihejrpey, purchased of Lord Cheney by Sir Humphrey Gylberte,
and conveyed by him to Sir Edward Hobby, being " the only stay
that is left her to live by in her husbo.nd's absence"
Feb. 28. 22. Articles of Agreement between Sir Humphrey Gylberte, of
Compton, co. Devon, and Sir George Peckham, of Deuham, co.
Bucks, and George Peckham his second son. Whereas her Majesty
by Letters Patent bearing date 11 June 1578, hath granted to said
Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns for ever, free liberty to discover,
AMERICA. AND WEST INDIES. 19
1583,
lands not possessed by any Christian Prince or people, and to
occupy and enjoy the same with all commodities, jurisdictions, &c.,
said Sir Humphrey in consideration that said Sir George hath
disbursed divers sums of money as a principal adventurer with
said Sir Humphrey, as also for divers other good considerations,
doth covenant with said Sir George Peckham and George his son,
their heirs and assigns, that they shall for ever enjoy free liberty
by virtue of said Letters Patent, to discover any lands, &c., not
discovered, and inhabited by any Christian Prince or people by
the assignment of said Sir Humphrey, &c., and also to enjoy to
their own use all that river and port called by Master John Dee,
Dee River, which river, by the description of John Verarzamus a
Florentine, lyeth in septentrionall latitude about forty-two degrees,
and hath his mouth lying open to the south, half a league broad or
thereabouts, and entring within the said bay between the east and
the north, encreaseth his breadth, and continueth twelve leagues or
thereabouts, and then maketh a gulf of twenty leagues compass or
thereabouts, and containeth in itself five small islands, newly named
the Cinq Isles, and the said gulf and five isles, and all other isles
lying within said river or gulf, together with fifteen hundred
thousand acres of ground within the supposed continent, lying next
adjoining upon said river, gulf, and five isles, at the choice of said
Peckham, fee., to hold the same for ever by soccage tenure of said
Sir Humphrey so as the said fifteen hundred thousand acres extend
not along the sea coast westward towards the River of Norumbeage
above three score English miles at the most, with full power to
people and manure the same, with all jurisdictions, privileges, &c.,
both by land and sea, paying to said Sir Humphrey, &c., for every
1,000 acres alter the first seven years, which the same shall be
actually manured, five shillings and two-fifths of all gold, &c.
Said Peckham and George his son not to be charged with any
contribution towards any wars, other than defences, and that only
by Act of Parliament, of whi<Jh assembly said Peckham, and all
who bear the name of an associate with him, shall be as principal
members, and said Sir Humphrey doth covenant and grant to
and with said Peckham, &c., free liberty to trade in said lands,
to have the execution of all laws, and to save them harmless
concerning the payment of gold and silver ore and other duties to
her Majesty, her heirs and successors, by said Letters Patents
reserved, and to finish assurance of the premises unto said Peckham,
&c., for ever within three months after the first return of said Sir
Humphrey or his assigns, consorts, adventurers, or associates from
said voyage of discovery now intended. Said Peckham and George
his son covenant that they shall do their best endeavour to obtain
her Majesty's leave, that all who adventure with them to said
countries, and whose names shall be entered in a register book,
may freely pass, there to remain or to return at their pleasure.
And that they will not defer the execution of justice within their
liberties, against any who conspire against the person of said Sir
Humphrey, &c., or commit any capital offence, or protect from
justice any person, his lands or goods, contrary to the laws to be
B *
20 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1583.
established in said countries. Also that if they shall do any
manner of act whereby said Sir Humphrey, his heirs, &c., shal
lose the benefit of his said Letters Patent, or publicly maintain
any person as shall go about to destroy the right or person of said
Sir Humphrey, &c., or seek the subversion of the Commonwealth of
said Sir Humphrey, his heirs or successors, their countries or
territories, that from thenceforth these presents to become void and
of none effect. [Close Roll, 25 Elizabeth, Part 8.]
April. 23. " A Discourse upon the intended voyage to the hithermost
parts of America written for the better instruction of the
merchants in the same by Capt. Carleill." After touching upon the
early voyages to Muscovy and other parts he says, but who shall
look into the quality of this voyage to the hithermost parts
of America shall find it hath as many points of good moment
as may almost be wished for, it is not any long course for
it may be performed to and fro in four months after the first
discovery, that one wind sufficeth to make the passage which
is upon the high sea without danger on any other coasts and the
outward or homeward voyages very well stored with goodly
harbours, and as the bordering neighbours are commonly the aptest
to fall out with us so these parts being somewhat further remote
are the liker to take or give less occasion of disquiet. [In margin.
This is spoken upon the opinion which by some is conceived that
Ireland is not suffered to grow to that perfection which it might be
least one day revolting by chance from the Crown, it might prove
an ovcrstrong party to be so near an enemy.] But when it is con-
sidered that they are our own kindred and esteemed our own country
nation which have the government, meaning by those who shall be
there planted who can Jook for any other than the dealing of most
loving and most assured friends. Two points of importance con-
cerning the matter of trade,, Answer to the objection that it is
not for the merchants' rjurse to continue the charges of transporting
and planting, and that since these hundred men which are now to
be planted cost 4,()OOZ. it is then to be thought that the charge of a
far greater number will be also a far greater sum of money. In
the margin. The ore of metal brought by Mr. Frobisher caused
a great supply to be furnished the year following. Sir Francis
Drake's only passage thro' the islands of Molucca was the chiefest
occasion of the preparation thither which cost not less than thirteen
or fifteen thousand pounds. The right examination of this point
must be the contrary sequel of the common proverb "Nothing
venture, nothing have," so, on the other side by venturing many
great good profits are found out to the wonderful benefit of the
Commonwealth, therefore would wish that those who are well able
to spare what is required of each one towards the undertaking of
thin adventure be willing to employ the same. Instances the
voyages of Jaques Carticr and others and that it is credibly
reported that the French by last year's voyage got fourteen or
fifteen hundred for every one hundred. 1 1 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 155,
No. 87.] Printed in UaMuyt III., 228-234., but with many
variations.
AMERICA ANT) WEST INDIES, 21
1583.
24. Points set down by the Committees appointed in the behalf
of the Company to confer with Mr. Carleill upon his intended dis-
covery and attempt in the northern parts of Ameiica. This
document has been erroneously assigned to the year 1574? in the
first volume of this Calendar. It is printed in Hakluyt III. 234-5,
but with considerable variations. [Col. Papers, Vol. I., No. 1.]
1583 ? 25. Certain questions to be demanded of Davy Ingram, sailor,
dwelling at Barking, co. Essex. What he observed in his travels
on the north side of the River of May, where he remained three
months or thereabouts. How long he travelled there. Whether
that country be fruitful and what kind of fruit there be. What
kind of beasts and cattle he saw. What kind of people and how
apparelled. The buildings. Whether any quantity of gold, silver,
pearl, or other jewels, and whether he j-aw a beast far exceeding an
ox in bigness. Ingram's answers to these questions are the same in
substance as those contained in his examination in the " Reports
of the country Sir Humphrey Gylberte goes to discover." He
sayeth that upon his life he offereth to go to the place to approve
the same true. With marginal notes that Sir H. Gylberte's man
reports their houses to be built in like manner, and brought hides of
the beast above referred to from the place he discovered. Endorsed,
" Questions to be asked of David Ingr<im concerning his knowledge
of a discovery." 2 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 175, No. 95.]
26. " Reports of the country Sir Humphrey Gylberte goes to
discover." Since the "fragment" of this lieport uus abstracted in
the first volume of this Calendar, the missing portion has been dis-
covered bound up erroneously in Dom. Eliz., Vol. 185, No. 88,
which has been restored to this document to which it belongs. The
date is most probably 1583 instead of 1580 and it is entitled as
above. It will be seen that the first part of these " Reports " are
David Ingran'ts Answers to the Question-s demanded of him in
the, preceding Abstract. [Col. Papers, Vol. I., No. 2.]
15 May. 27. Indenture between Sir George Peckham of Denham, co.
Bucks, and William Rows-swell of Forde, co. Devon., Sir Humphrey
Gylberte's Letters Patent of 11 June 1578, and the Indenture
between Sir Humphrey and Sir George Peckham of G June
1582 (see ante, No. 15) are recited. Said Sir George in con-
sideration of a sum of money with him adventured by said Rowss-
well as a principal Adventurer in said voyage [now intended by
said Sir Humphrey], and for other considerations, doth covenant
with said Rowsswell, his heirs and assigns, that they shall for ever
enjoy full power and free liberty, by virtue of said Letters Patent
and assignment of the premises, to hold and enjoy one hundred
thousand acres of ground, parcell of said live hundred thousand acres
of ground to said Sir George granted as aforesaid, with power to
make choice of the same, before any other that shall adventure
with said Sir George undci said Grant, as also to inhabit, people,
n<3 and manure the same, together with all prerogatives, &c., in as
ample manner as said Sir George mi^ht have enjoyed the
22 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1583,
holding the same by soccage tenure, and paying to her Majesty and
said patentee in ail things as Sir George payeth rateably. And
further paying to said Sir George yearly on first of January one
steel target, and one good arming sword in the name of a Chiefage
only. And grants to said Rowsswell and to his heirs, and to ten of
his assigns and factors serving with him or them, and to their
heirs males for ever, free liberty to trade to and from any of the
said countries to be discovered by said Patentee or said Sir George,
their heirs, deputies, or assigns. [Close Roll, 25 Eliz.> Part 8.]
July 7. 28. Articles of Agreement between Sir Humphrey Gylberte of
Compton, co. Devon, and Sir Philip Sydney of Penshurst, co. Kent.
Whereas her Majesty by Letters Patents, bearing date 11 June 1578,
hath granted to said Sir Humphrey, his heirs and assigns for ever,
free liberty to discover lands not possessed by any Christian Prince
or People, and to occupy and enjoy the same with all commodities,
jurisdictions, &c. Said Sir Humphrey for the more speedy execution
of Her Majesty's said grant, the enlargement of Her Dominions,
and the better encouragement of said Sydney and his associates,
doth covenant with said Sydney, his heirs and assigns, that
said Sydney, his heirs, assigns, associates, adventurers, and people
shall for ever enjoy free libertv to discover anything' not before
discovered or inhabited by said Sir Humphrey, his heirs or
assigns, and to enjoy to their own use such lands so discovered
as shall amount unto thirty hundred thousand acres, with
power to inhabit, people, and manure the same, together with
all jurisdictions, privileges, and emoluments whatsoever for governing,
peopling, &c., the same, holding same of said Sir Humphrey, his
heirs, and assigns in free soccage, paying for every thousand acres
after the first seven years which the same shall be actually possessed
and manured, fifteen pence and two-fifths of gold, silver, pearl, and
precious stones, also one halfpenny sterling yearly to be levied for
ever out of every acre after the first ten years that any one farm
shall be possessed and manured, which money shall be yearly
employed towards the maintenance of a Navy and Soldiers for the
general defence of those countries, said moneys to be kept in a
treasure house appointed for that purpose, and to be employed by
the consent of the Chiefest Governor and of the more part of
thirteen Councillors, for martial and marine causes to be chosen by
the people. Also that the sixtieth part of all lands of every temporal
man and the fortieth part of the lands and revenues of every
spiritual person be yearly allowed for the maintenance of maimed
soldiers, and learning, and to such other uses as the Chief Governor
and Councillors shall think meet. Also the said Sydney, &c., to
enjoy free liberty to trade, to have the execution of all laws within
the precinct of thirty hundred thousand acres of ground, as also upon
the sea coasts so far as said land shall extend, said Sir Humphrey
to save said Sydney harmless concerning payment of the ore of gold
and silver and all other duties, services, and demands by said Letters
Patent reserved, and to finish further assurance of the premises
within three months next after the next return of said Sir Hum-
phrey or his assigns, consorts, adventurers, or associates from the said
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 23
1583.
voyage of discovery. Said Sydney covenants that he shall do his
best endeavour to obtain her Majesty's leave that all who adventure
with said Sir Humphrey, Sir Thomas Gerrard, Sir George Peckham,
the said Philip Sydney, or any of them, unto said countries, whose
names shall be entered in a register book, and shall be willing to
travel into any of the said remote countries may freely pass there
to remain or return at their pleasure. And said Sydney covenants
that he and his heirs, &c., shall not defer the execution of justice
within'their liberties, against any conspiring against Sir Humphrey,
or committing any capital offence, or protect from justice any person,
his lands or goods, contrary to the laws to be established in the
before mentioned remote countries. Also that if said Sydney, or
his heirs, &c., do anything tending to the subversion of said Sir
Humphrey, his heirs, principal Governor, &c., or commit piracy, or
open hostility against any Christian Prince or People whereby said
Letters Patents be made void, or maintain any person as shall openly
go about to destroy the right, title, or person of said Sir Humphrey,
his heirs, &c., or the subversion of his Commonwealth, that then
this present grant, and all covenants therein contained, to become
void and of none effect. [Close Roll, 25 Elizabeth, Part 7, No.
1153.]
July. 29. Articles indented between Sir Philip Sidney, of Penshurst,
co. Kent, and Sir George Peckham, of Denho.m, co. Bucks. Whereas
Sir Philip Sidney, by Letters Patent enrolled in Chancery [see pre-
ceding Number], is authorised to discover and inhabit certain parts
of America not yet discovered, and out of those countries to have
and enjoy for ever thirty hundred thousand acres of ground, with
all commodities, &c., &c., both by sea and land, with power to
lead in the said voyage, to travel, thitherward or to inhabit there.
Now said Sir Philip Sidney, for the more speedy execution of her
Majesty's said grant, the enlargement of her dominions, and the
encouragement of said Sir George Peckham and his associates in
so worthy and commendable an enterprise, doth covenant with said
Peckham that he will make good and sufficient assurance in the law
of the said xxx m [should be xxxc" 1 , i.e., 3,000,000] acres to said
Peckham, his heirs or assigns, as he can or may convey, with all
privileges thereunto belonging. And said Sir Philip is contented
that all sums of money and commodities received of any ad-
venturing towards said discovery shall be paid to said Peckham,
his heirs or assigns, towards furnishing a supply of shipping and
other necessaries without account. 12 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 161,
No. 44.]
Nov. t 30. Minute of a letter touching the discovery in America, for
Mr. Secretary. " Is informed by Anthony Brigham of a very good
inclination in Mr. Secretary to the Western discoveries if he may
be sufficiently authorized, and have a Society without joining with
any other than he makes choice of. Is of opinion he will do well
to hearken to such offer as Sir Philip Sidney and Sir Geo.
Peckham will make, who have sufficient authority under her
Majesty's Letters Patent to perform the effect of his desire, no
whit mistrusting but that this voyage will prove profitable to the
24
COLONIAL PAPERS.
153-3,
1584.
Jan. 7.
rari8
House.
adventurers in particular and generally beneficial to the whole
realm. 1 p. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 165, No. 35.]
31. Richard Hakluyt, Preacher [with Sir Edward Stafford], to
S ec - Sir Francis Walsingham. Understands his special favour
and good will towards him, as also his expectation of Hakluyt's
diligent inquiry of such things as may yield light unto our
Western discovery. Yields most humble thanks for the two
former, and for the latter has not nor will he omit any possible
diligence, expecting intelligence from Roanne, Dieppe, and St. Malo
very shortly. Has seen in one man's house called Parossi the
value of five thousand crowns' worth of furs, sables, beavers,
otters, and other sorts ; great quantities of hides also brought
home and sent to the Low Countries. All these commodities and
others of no less value are brought out of the most nether parts of
those countries whereunto our voyage of inhabiting is intended.
" And now because I know that this present enterprise is like soon
to wsix cold and fall to the ground unless in this second voyage all
diligence in searching out every hope of gain be used, and calling
to mind that your Honor made a motion heretofore unto me
whether I could be contented to go myself into the action, these
are to put your Honor out of doubt that for mine own parl I am
most willing to go now in the same, this present setting forth, and
in the service of God and my country to employ all my ample
observations, reading, and conference whatsoever. For obtaining
leave of my Lord Ambassador here to depart, I doubt not but to
find means of myself, seeing he may have enough to supply my
room. For leave of my College and entertainment in this voyage
I will wholly refer it unto your Honor, who wish me so well as
you will not see my poor estate impaired. Because the time is
exceeding short I would desire your Honor's present answer, upon
sight whereof with wings of Pegasus 1 would soon fly into
England. I have talked twice with Don Antonio of Portugal and
with five or six of his best captains and pilots, one of whom was
born in the East India ; they wish all prosperity to her Majesty
and yourself, and say that if the queen of England would join
with their Master, whose strength by sea they commend unto the
skies, that they would know how the king of Spain, our mortal
enemy, would easily be met withal, and she much enriched."
The Portugals have a voyage in hand with the French, preparing
at Newhaven, for the coast of Guinea. One Simon Andreas, born
in Savoy and now ia Paris, has been lately in the Island of Japan,
with whom, by means of Dr. Pena, IJakluyt will have conference
in a day or two. Divers other intelligences, tending towards the
furtherance of our Western planting and discovery, he looks for
from sundry places very shortly. Has been told by Peroffe and
Andrew Thevett, the King's Cosmographer, that Duke Joyeuse,
admiral of France, and the cardinal of Bourbon and their friends,
have had a meaning to send out certain ships to inhabit some place
of the North part of America, and to carry thither many friars and
other religious persons ; but he thinks they be not in haste to do it.
3 pp. [Dom Eliz., Vol. 167, No. 7.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 25
1584.
March 25. 32. Letters Patent to Walter Raleigh, Esq., and to his heirs and
Westminster, assigns for ever, granting them free liberty to discover barbarous
countries not actually possessed of any Christian prince and
inhabited by Christian people, and to occupy and enjoy the same
for ever, with all commodities, jurisdictions, and privileges. They
and such as by license of her Majesty, her heirs and successors,
shall travel to inhabit there, to build and fortify at the discretion
of said Walter Raleigh, &c., the Acts of Parliament against
fugitives notwithstanding, with power to take such persons as shall
willingly accompany them to inhabit there; also to employ sufficient
shipping and furniture for transportation, excepting such as shall
be hereafter restrained by the Queen, &c., and to hold and onjoy
for ever the soil of all lands so to be discovered, and all cities,
castles, towns, villages, and places in the same, with the rights,
royalties, and jurisdiction, with power to dispose thereof ac-
cording to the laws of England, reserving to her Majesty, &c., for
all services, the fifth part of gold and silver ore ; all which lands
shall for ever be holden by said Walter Raleigh, c., by homage and
by payment of said fifth part, with power to expulse and resist
by sea and land all persons who without license attempt to inhabit
within said countries or within the space of two hundred leagues
near to the same, where they or any of their company shall within
six years next ensuing make their dwellings, or that shall attempt
unlawfully to annoy them; and to take all persons, with their
ships and goods, which without their license shall be found
trafficking within the limits aforesaid, those trading to New-
foundlands for fishing, as they heretofore havo commonly used, or
being driven by force of tempest or shipwreck, only excepted, and
to detain such persons, ships, and goods, as of good and lawful
prize. All such countries to be of the allegiance of her Majesty,
&c., with license to said Walter Raleigh, and all persons whose
names shall bs entered in some of her Majesty's Courts of Record
in England, that shall for discovery or conquest hereafter travel
and be inhabiting within said countries, to enjoy all the privileges
of free denizens of England, any law or custom to the contrary
notwithstanding. And it being necessary for the safety of all that
shall adventure in those voyages to live together in Christian peace
and civil quietness, full power is given to said Walter Raleigh,
&c., to punish, pardon, and govern and rule, in capital, criminal, and
civil causes, all adventurers in said voyages, or that shall inhabit
said countries, or within two hundred leagues of the same, within
six years next ensuing, according to such laws as by them shall
be established, so as said laws be, as near as may be, agreeable
to the laws of England, and not against the true Christian faith
or religion now professed in the Church of England, or withdraw
any of her Majesty's subjects from their allegiance ; with power
to the Lord Treasurer and Privy Council to license said Walter
Raleigh, &c., to transport out of England and Ireland the goods of
their Associates and Companies, with other necessaries and com-
modities as to said Lord Treasurer and Privy Councillors shall be
thought meet for the supportation of said Walter Raleigh, &,c.,
any law to the contrary notwithstanding. Provided always that
26 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1584.
if said Walter Raleigh, &c., shall by sea or land do any act 01
unlawful hostility to the subjects of her Majesty or any Prince in
amity with her, and shall, after proclamation made, not make full
restitution and satisfaction, then it shall be lawful for her Majesty,
&c., to put them and all the inhabitants of said places out of her
Majesty's allegiance and protection, and it shall be free for all
Princes and others to pursue them with hostility, as not being
her Majesty's subjects. For that express mention of the yearly
value or certainty of the premises, or of any other grants to said
Walter Raleigh in these presents be not expressed, or any restraint
to the contrary before this time made, or any other matter what-
ever, in any wise notwithstanding. This has been collated with
the copy printed in Hakluyt III., 297-301, and several variations
have been found, but not of great importance. (Patent Roll, 26
Elizabeth, Part 1.)
March 25. 33. " Articles out of Walter Raleigh's Letters Patent " abstracted
above ; also " The substance of the Act of Parliament." Since the
date of said Letters Patent there is discovered by said Walter
Raleigh a land called Wingandaioia, not inhabited by Christian
people, from whence some of the people are brought into this realm,
and thereby singular great commodities of that land are revealed.
Therefore it is to be enacted that said Walter Raleigh, his heirs
and assigns, shall by authority of Parliament enjoy said land so
discovered, and said Letters Patent to be approved by Parliament.
A promise that the Act shall not extend to license any in prison or
under arrest, or the wife, ward, or apprentice to depart this realm,
or said Walter Raleigh to enlarge any such or take any shipping
of any person against his will. 2| pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 169,
No. 36.]
March 25. 34. " Brief notes concerning the effects of her Majesty's Grant
to Walter Raleigh," being an abstract of his Letters Patent calen-
dared above. Also copy of said Letters Patent. [Dom. Eliz.,
Vol. 169, Nos. 35-37.]
April 1.
Parii.
35. Richard Hakluyt to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham. The
famous disputations in all the parts of the mathematics, at present
held in Paris for gaining the lecture trected by the worthy scholar
Petrus Ramus, puts him in mind to solicit his Honor again and
again for the erection of a lecture of the Art of Navigation, about
which he had speech with his Honor Sir Francis Drake, Alderman
Barnes, and others. Sends the testament of Petrus Ramus newly
put out again in print, the provisions of which he explains, and
recommends should be put in execution in England, and Her
Majesty be induced to erect such a lecture in Oxford, and the like
for the Art of Navigation in London, allowing to each 501. yearly :
" In my simple judgment it would be the best hundred pounds
bestowed, that was bestowed these five hundred years in England."
How necessary are arithmetic and geometry for service of wars, as
is the art of navigation for our new discoveries, and long voyages
by sea. Such things as he has carefully sought out here in France
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 27
1584.
concerning the furtherance of the Western Discoveries, he has im-
parted to Mr. Carlile. His dealing with Horatio Palavisini to
become an adventurer in those western voyages. Among other
talk he alleged his Honor's good disposition to the same, which he
hearing of, replied very cheerfully that if he were moved thereunto
by the least word from His honor, he would put in his hundred
pound adventure or more. If Mr. Carlile be gone, yet it might
come in good time to serve Mr. Frobisher's turn. The Papists will
shortly set forth a confutation of the defence of the execution of
justice in England. French news. Earthquake in Geneva. Don
Antonio's Captains of his fleet not yet departed from Paris. 3 pp.
[Dom. Eliz., Vol. 170, No. 1.]
1585.
Feb. 8. 36. Queen Elizabeth's Warrant to Sir John Perrot, Lord Deputy
Greenwich. o f Ireland, twenty horsemen and forty footmen having been
appointed for Kerry and Clanmorris, and Raphe Lane, one of the
Queen's equerries, to the government thereof. " Forasmuch as we
have occasion to employ him presently in other our service of im-
portance, we are pleased for his better encouragement thereunto
that he during the time that he shall be thus employed shall enjoy
that his government " and supply the same by substitute or
lieutenant, and als0 enjoy his full entertainment. Endorsed,
" Graciously given him by her Majesty in consideration of his
ready undertaking the voyage to Virginia for Sir Walter Raughley
at her Maj. commandment/' [Cowespond., Ireland, Vol. 114,
No. 71.] There are several letters from, Ralph Lane in the First
Volume of this Calendar, dated from Port Ferdinando Virginia,
between 12 Aug. and 8 Sept. 1585.
April 7. 37. Richard Hakluyt to Secretary Sir Francis Walsingham. It
Fans. pleased her Majesty two days' before his dispatch, upon sight of a
couple of books of his, one in Latin upon Aristotle's polities, the
other in English concerning Mr. Rawley's voyage, to grant him the
next vacation of a prebend in Bristol, which is a thing of very
small value. The words of his Grant are that he should enjoy it
next, whether it be by death, vacation, resignation, or any other
way howsoever ; and yet since his coming out of England he is
advertised that Mr. Sanders, a prebend of that place, either hath
or means to resign his room to another, which if not hindered by
his Honor's favour, his reversion will not be worth the money the
seals stood him in, for if these resignations be permitted he may be
these seven and seven years before he shall be placed ; therefore
beseeches his Honor not to suffer his Grant to be frustrated by any
such dealing. How careful he has been to advertise Sir Walter
Rawley from time to time, and to send him discourses both in print
and written hand concerning his voyage, he had rather his Honor
should understand of Sir Walter than of himself. Foreign news.
The rumour of Sir Walter Rawley's fleet, and especially the pre-
paration of Sir Francis Drake, doth so much vex the Spaniard and
his factors, as nothing can do more, and therefore he could wish
that altho' Sir Francis Drake's journey be stayed, yet the rumour
of his setting forward might be continued. Report that divers
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1585.
June 20.
Greenwich.
June.
Oct. 15.
Kichmond.
1586.
May 26.
Lords in England were up in arms, and with the Catholics had taken
an Island. 3 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Addenda, Vol. 29, No. 9.] Another
letter from Halduyt to Lord Treasurer Burleigh, dated from Paris,
11 April 1588, relates wholly to Foreign news.']
38. The Queen's Commission to Barnard Drake. Whereas we
have been given to understand that the ships and goods of our
subjects have lately been arrested in Spain, and others of our subjects
who employ themselves in the fishing at the Newfoundland are de-
termined to make sale of their fish in Spain, we have thought meet
to send Barnard Drake not only to advertise our subjects to avoid
this danger, but to join with him in doing their best endeavours to
seize all ships appertaining to the King of Spain or his subjects,
and bring them into some of the western ports of our realm without
dispersing any part of their lading until our further pleasure be
known. Draught with corrections, also fair copy. [Dom. Eliz. t
Vol. 179, Nos. 21,22.]
39. " A graunt unto the Ladie Anne Gilbert and to her assignes
af all such lands in the countie of Kent as Richard Ouilford Esquio r
was seased of at the time of his departure beyond the seas contrnrie
bo a Statute made against fugitives, w th a further graunt to the
same Ladie of all the goodes chattels and debtes anie way due to
the sayd Guylford at his said departure, and that yt shall be
lawfull to the said Ladie for the recoverie of the same goodes and
debtes eyther to sue for y e same in Her Ma te name or in her owne.
The goodes to have for ever w th out anie aceompt and the lands
for so long time as they shall bee in her Ma hands. Subscribed by
Mr. Attorney General!. Procured by S r Walter Rawlcy, xiij 8 , mj<V'
[Signet Office Index, Vol. /.]
40. The Council to Sir John Gylbert. On knowledge of a
general arrest in Spain of her Majesty's subjects' ships and goods
Sir Walter Raleigh was directed to set forth certain ships
for interrupting such of the King of Spain's subjects as should
repair to the fishing at Newfoundland, which has been executed
with so good success as to bring to this realm a good number
of Spanish vessels wherein are about 600 mariners. Are credibly
advertised her Majesty's subjects in Spain are used in very
hard and insufferable sort, therefore think meet to reduce the
diet of the Spanish mariners from 35. 4tZ. a man per week to 3d. a
man per day, the charge to be allowed out of a third part of the
fish allotted to the ships' victuals of war. ] p. [Dom. Eliz.,
Vol. 183, No. ] 3.]
41. Nicholas Clevar to Nicholas Turner, merchant. The captain
of a ship of Newhaven come from Sir Fras. Drake, says Drake has
taken San Domingo, and that he left there on 22nd January with
all the riches of the island, having also taken five great galleons ;
that he found great provision of oil, wines, and rice, also 350 brass
pieces, with powder and shot. That he took away with him 1,200
English, French, Flemings, and Provincials opt of prison, besides
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 29
158G.
800 of the country captives. The Lord Admiral has a letter
directed to Roger How, " delivering the manner of the taking of
San Domingo." That Sir Francis played with the Spaniards three
days, making many false alarms as though he would have landed,
and so weaned and' tired them, then very secretly landed 800 men
in most warlike order a league or two off, and in the meantime his
ships "gave a whole charge," whereupon the enemy issued out of
the town to defend the landing, when the 800 men cutting between
the enemy and the town upon their backs, and striking up their
drums and displaying ensigns, so amazed them that they were
scattered, killed, and spoiled very near 10,000. [Dow. Eliz.,
Vol. 189, No. 42.]
1586?
42. The twenty several Titles or Heads of the Chapters con-
tained in the book of Sir Walter Raleigh's voyage to the West
Indies, " which, because of the rareness of the matter therein con-
tained, and also for that few or none (her Majesty excepted) have
seen, I thought it best to offer your Worship my labour therein"
as one who best observeth the same ; and therefore have sent you
the titles to know whether you like of the same or no. This
bearer and author of the foresaid work, Mr. Hakluyt, doth at this
instand present the book written all with my hand to Mr. Secre-
tary, who hath very earnestly oftentimes writt for it, and so hath
the Earl of Leicester ; but as yet this is the first exscription,
and, if your Worship please, you shall have the second when I
shall understand so. 1 ' Supposed to be in the handwriting of
Lancaster, the celebrated navigator. 3 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 105,
No. 127.]
1588.
Sept. 5. 43. The names of certain Englishmen, prisoners in Spain and
the Low Countries, whose friends here desire to have of the Spanish
prisoners to redeem them with. These include Ferdinando Gorges,
Corners Clifford and Edward Wing6eld, prisoners at Lille. Is this
the Edicard Winyfield the fourth name in the Virginia Charter of
160G [see No. 48], who was President of that Colony in 1607, see
Col. CaL, 1574-1G60, pp. 5-6. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 216, No. 6.]
1591.
Dec. 23. 44. " A Discourse of the Indies." All the mines of India belong
to particular merchants, and the King has 15 in the 100 of every
one of them at the marking, and it is death and loss of goods to
carry gold or silver out of the country unmarked. What is got
out of the mines of each Province by public order has to be brought
to the Cities where the States are, to be marked, and the 10 in the
100 taken for tho King is then supplied to the merchants. There
are 4 notable places under the king of Spain in the Indies, viz.,
Nova Hispania und the Province of Funduras (sic) in one Continent,
and Peru and Novo Regrio also in another Continent. Nova
Hispania has no gold of itself, but has a Haven in the other which
has, and the King sends 2 or 3 ships yearly to China who change
silver for gold, and it is death for strangers to land in China for
trade, but there an? Islands appointed for that purpose. The
silver of Nova Spania is marked at Mexico, from whence they take
30 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1591.
it to Vera Cruz and then to St. John del Luva, where it remains
until the Fleet is appointed, who load it about 12 days before
setting sail. Funduras has two Havens called Trusiglio and Porto
de la Vallo, out of which Province there is a great store of money,
but the good done is not known. Peru has gold and silver ; Lima
is the place for making it, and Cagliaco de Lima is the principal
Haven, and where the treasure used first to be laden, and then
carried to Panama on the coast of Peru, and thence by land to
Nombre de Dios, in terra firma dil Peru (sic), and shipped to the
Havana. Novo Regno has mines also, but more of gold than
silver, the treasure of which Province, when marked, used to be
conveyed to Carthagena, where the other ships of Peru used to
meet and then go for Havana, but the Discoverer does not know
as to the amount of good done. Havana is the key of the Indies,
insomuch that he who is Lord of that obtaineth the rest. Under-
stands there is extreme want of money in Spain, and as it is likely
they will hasten the treasure left at Havana, " so that without
speed there is no hope of the present." Great secrecy is needed, for
the Spaniards have often prevented the intentions of the English,
having long before been certified of their purposes. Good ships
should be prepared, not many in one place, but scattered in the
divers ports with orders to meet " at the secret appointment "
when prepared " that they may be gone before they seem to have
been thought of." l^pp. Endorsed as above. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 1.]
1593.
Oct. ? 45. Commission to Richard Hawkins. To attempt some enter-
prise with a ship, bark, and pinnace against the king of Spain, his
subjects, and adherents upon the coasts of the West. Indies, Brazil,
Africa, and America, or in the South seas, granting him and his
partners whatsoever he shall take either by sea or Jand, reserving
to the Queen, her heirs and successors, one-fifth part of all treasure,
jewels, and pearls. 1 pp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 245, No. 126.]
1596.
April 25. 46. Wm. Stallenge to Sir Robt. Cecil. Is very sorry to write
Plymouth. RUC h unpleasant news, yet has thought it his duty to advertise.
On Friday last certain ships arrived of Sir Francis Drake's fleet at
Falmouth. but himself and Sir John Hawkins, with many other
men of worth, he understands are dead. Sends packet of letters
for Alderman Walker, wherein his servant, Capt. Goodwin, sends a
particular relation of the whole voyage, which he incloses, so that
Sir Robt. may be informed by Alderman Walter of all things at
large. Perceives their company are returned in great distress for
want of victuals. Some things they have brought, but as it is
reported nothing near to countervail the charges of the Journey,
Extract. Encloses,
46. I. " Journal of the voyage of Sir Francis Drake and
Sir John Hawkins by Capt. Troughton." Set sail from
Plymouth on 28 Aug. [1595] " for our pretended voyage."
Along the coast of Spain many unkind speeches passed
with our generals, " such as Sir John Hawkins never
put off till death." Consultation as to taking the Grand
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 31
1596.
Canaries, Sir Francis in favour of the design, Sir John
against it, but at the earnest request of some friends
was content to assist, yet in bis judgment labour lost.
Anchored 26 Sept. before the fort that guards the landing
place at the Grand Canaries, but after some show of
resistance Sir Thos. Baskervile made his retreat without
putting foot on land. Came to Dominica 28 Oct., and
two days after anchored at Guadaloupe. On 31 Oct.
Sir John Hawkins "not able to bear his griefs out
longer sickened." On 4 Nov. anchored among the Virgin
Islands, and on 12 Nov. at Portorico, where Sir Nicholas
Clifford was killed by a shot, and on this day also died
Sir John Hawkins, whose death of many was much
lamented. Five frigates in the harbor, but only suc-
ceeded in burning one of them. Dec. 2 took Rio de la
Hatche, where was found great store of pearls, plate,
jewels, and ryals, silks, rich apparel, and much other
luggage, and Sir Francis from another town took great
quantity of pearl and luggage. The Spaniards ransomed
their houses, negroes, and prisoners for 24,000 pieces,
every piece 6s. (id. They burnt Rio de la Hatche, Ban-
garia, and Tapia, also Sancta Marta. Great store of gold,
silver, and jewels taken at Nonibre de Dios. 29 Dec.
Sir Thos. Baskerville, Col. Gen., with all his ablest captains
and soldiers, took the journey for Panama, "now the
mark of our voyage," but impeded by some Spaniards and
Negroes made their retreat to the ships. [1596] 5 Jany.
all our men being shipped and the town and galliots put
to fire, sailed by advice of a Spaniard to. the river
Nicaragua. On 28 Jany. came in with Puerto Bello,
" this morning died our general Sir Francis Drake."
Feb. 8 Sir Tho.s. Baskerville, " taking upon him general,"
set sail homewards, but not able to recover higher than
Carthagena put over for Jamaica and lost four ships.
Descried twenty of the King of Spain's war ships
"waiting our home coming." It was Capt. Troughton's
fortune to take the Vice-Admiral, " one of the twelve
apostles of the King, the manner of our fight and my
deserving I leave to the report of even my enemies."
Demanded of Sir Thos. Baskerville his promise of
victuals, but he refusing told him I must make more haste
home than I presumed he would, when in a storm on
14 March I left him. 4 jvp. [Dom. Eliz., Vol. 257, Ncs.
48, 48 /.]
[1597.]
47.' Petition of " Her Higlmeas' faithful subjects falsely called
Brownists" to the Lords of the Council. Her Majesty's natural
born subjects, true and loyal, many living in other countries as
exiles, and the rest in her Grace's land, greatly distressed thro'
imprisonment and great troubles sustained only for matters of
conscience. And whereas means now offer for their being in a lar
country which lieth to the west in Canada, where they may
32 COLONIAL PAPERS,
[1597.]
only worship God as in conscience persuaded by his word, but also
do her Majesty and their country great good service by annoying
that bloody and persecuting Spaniard about the Bay of Mexico.
Pray their Honors to be a means to her Majesty that they may
peaceably depart thither, promising to remain faithful and loving
subjects, and that wheresoever they become they will live and die
faithful to her Highness and this land of their nativity. [Dom.
Eliz., Vol. 246, No. 5(5.] The date is supplied by the Council
Register in the Privy Council Office. The petitioners sailed in the
ships Hopewell and Chancewell, and went to an island called
Raine in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The researches of Mr. J. A.
Doyle, the historian, have revealed the fact that only four
Brownists absolutely went out.
1606.
April 10. 48. Letters Patent to " our loving and well-disposed subjects,"
Weitminster. gi r Thomas Gates, Sir George Somers, Richard Hakluyt, Preben-
dary of Westminster, Edward Maria Wingfield, Thomas Hannam,
Raleigh Gilberte, William Parker, George Popham, "and divers
others/' suitors to his Majesty for license to make habitation, and
plantation, and to deduce a colony of sundry of " our people " into
Virginia, and other parts in America, appertaining to his Majesty
or not actually possessed by any Christian Prince or People, along
the Sea coasts and in the main land, between 34 deg. and 45 deg.
N. L., and the Islands adjacent or within one hundred miles of the
coast; who are desirous to divide themselves into two several
Colonies and Companies, the one consisting of certain Knights,
Gentlemen, Merchants, and other Adventurers of London and else-
where, to begin their plantations and habitations between 34 and
41 deg. N. L. ; and the other, consisting of sundry Knights,
Gentlemen, Merchants, and other Adventurers of Bristol, Exeter,
Plymouth, and other places, to begin their plantations and habita-
tions, between 38 and 45 deg. N. L. The King, greatly commending
and graciously accepting of their desires to the furtherance of so
noble a work, which may, by the Providence of Almighty God,
hereafter tend to the Glory of His Divine Majesty, in propagating
of Christian Religion to such people, as yet live in darkness, and
miserable ignorance of the true knowledge and worship of God,
and may in time bring the Infidels and Savages living in those
parts, to human civility and lo a settled and quiet Government,
for himself, his heirs and successors, grants and agrees, that said
Sir Thomas Gates, Sir George Somers, Richard Hakluyt, and Ed-
ward Maria Wingtield, Adventurers of London, and all others
joined with them, shall be called the first Colony, and may begin
their first plantation, where they think fit between said 34 and
41 deg. N. L., and enjoy all lands, havens, rivers, mines, minerals,
waters, fishings, commodities, and hereditaments whatsoever, for
fifty English statute miles along said coast of Virginia and America
towards the West and South-west, and for fifty like miles towards
the East and North-east, with all islands within one hundred
miles, directly over against the same Sea Coast, and, directly into
the main land for one hundred like miles ; with power to inhabit
there, and to build and fortify to their best discretions and by
y AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 33
1606.
the direction of the Council of that Colony, no others to plant and
inhabit, without license of the Council of that Colony in writing. His
Majesty likewise grants and agrees, that said Thomas Hannam,
Raleigh Gilberte, William Parker, George Popham, and all others
of Plymouth, co. Devon or elsewhere, joined with them, shall be
called the Second Colony, and in ay begin their said first plantation
where they think fit between said 38 and 45 deg. N. L. ; with all
lands, &c., for fifty miles, &c., and all islands, &c., directly into
the mainland, for one hundred miles ; with power as before pro-
vided for the first Colony, &c. Provided always, that the last
Colony planted shall not be within one hundred miles of the
other. Each of said Colonies shall have a Council, to govern all
matters within said Colony, according to instructions to be signed
by his Majesty under the Privy Seal ; each of which Councils to
consist of thirteen persons, to be ordained and removed from time
to time according as shall be directed in same instructions ; and
Council to have a seal, with the King's Arms engraven on one side
and his portraiture on the other ; the seal for the Council of said
first Colony, to have engraven round about on one side, these
words, " Sigillum Regis Magnae JBritannise Francise et Hiberniae,"
and on the other side " Pro Consilio primse Colonise Virginiae " ; the
seal for the Council of said Second Colony to have on one side, said
inscription, and on the other side " Pro Consilio secundae Coloniaa
Virginiae." A Council also to be established in England, to consist
of thirteen persons, to be appointed by his Majesty, &c., to be
called "Our Council of Virginia," to have the superior direction
of said Colonies, and to have a seal with said like arms and
portraiture, with the inscriptions " Sigillum Regis Magnse Britannise
Franciae et Hiberniae " and " Pro Consilio suo Virginias." With
power to the said several Councils to dig for all mines of gold,
silver, and copper, within any part of said Colonies, and to enjoy
the same, yielding to the King, &c., the fifth part of all gold and
silver, and the fifteenth part of all copper ; and to establish and
cause to be made, a coin to pass current there, for the more ease of
traffic amongst them and the natives. And power to said Sir
Thos. Gates, Sir George Somers and the others aforenamed, and to
the said several Companies, Plantations, and Colonies, to lead in
said voyage to inhabit in said Colonies, such of his Majesty's sub-
jects as shall willingly accompany them, with sufficient shipping
and furniture of armour, weapons, ordnance, powder, victuals, and
all other things necessary for said plantations. Provided always
that none of said persons be such as shall be hereafter specially
restrained by his Majesty's license to said Sir Thos. Gates and
others aforenamed, to expulsc and resist by sea and land, all persons
that shall without special license attempt to inhabit within the
precincts of said Colonies, or do anything to the hurt, detriment or
annoyance of the same ; to take all persons, with their ships and
goods, found trafficking within the precincts of said Colonies, until
they, being his Majesty's subjects, shall agree to pay to the Treasurer
of that Colony two-and-a-half upon any hundred bought or sold,
and if strangers, five upon every hundred ; said sums of money for
one and twenty years to be employed to the yee. of said plantations!
72849. Q
34 COLONIAL PAPERS.
160G.
and afterwards to the use of his Majesty, his heirs and successors.
With liberty to said Colonies to transport the goods, chattels,
armour, munition, and furniture needful for their apparel, defence,
or otherwise, out of his Majesty's Dominions for seven years free
of customs, or other duty. With power to all inhabitants of said
Colonies and their children to enjoy all liberties, &c., as if born in
his Majesty's Dominions. If any person shall transport any wares,
&c., with the pretence of disposing of the same within the precincts
of said Colonies, and shall carry same into any Foreign country,
with a purpose to dispose of the same without license of his
Majesty, said goods to be forfeited to his Majesty. Provided always
that if any person rob, spoil, or commit any act of hostility by sea
or land upon the subjects of his Majesty, or of any Prince in
amity with him, and after Proclamation shall not make full satis-
faction, said person to be put out of his Majesty's allegiance and
protection. Finally, his Majesty for himself, his heirs and suc-
cessors, grants and agrees that upon petition in that behalf to be
made, his Majesty will, by Letters Patent, grant to such persons,
as the most part of the Council of each Colony shall nominate, all
the lands, tenements, and hereditaments which shall be within the
precincts of that Colony aforesaid ; to be holden of his Majesty,
his heirs and successors, in fee and common soccage only, and not
in capite ; all which lands, &c., shall be so distributed and divided
amongst the Undertakers for plantation of said Colonies and the
planters therein, in the manner to be ordered by the most part of
said Councils of said Colonies. [Patent Roll, 4 Jan. /., Part 19,
No. 1709. Printed in Hazard.]
1609.
May 23. 49. Letters Patent for colonizing lands in Virginia. Whereas
at the suit of divers his Majesty's subjects intending to deduce a
Colony and make plantation in Virginia and other parts of
America not possessed by any Christian prince or people, his
Majesty has, by Letters Patent of April 10, 1606 [see ante,
No. 48], granted to Sir Thomas Gates, Sir George Somers, and
others to divide themselves into two Colonies, as therein set forth.
Now forasmuch as divers Adventurers and Planters of said First
Colony have been suitors to his Majesty to grant them an enlarge-
ment of said privileges, &c., and that such Councillors and other
officers may be appointed to manage their affairs as are ready to
adventure with them and whose dwellings are not far from London,
his Majesty greatly affecting the success of said plantation, grants
to Robert Earl of Salisbury, Thomas Earl of Suffolk, Henry Earl
of Southampton, &c. (here follows a list of Earls, Lords, Knights,
Doctors, Captains, City Companies, and others, occupying 3 mem-
branes), and to such as they shall hereafter admit to be joined
with them in form hereafter expressed (whether they go in person
or adventure their monies and goods), that they shall have one
common seal, be incorporated by the name of the Treasurer and
Company of Adventurers and Planters of the City of London for
the First Colony in Virginia, and be enabled by that name to
purchase, plead, and be impleaded. And his Majesty grants to
gaid Treasurer, &c., under the limitations hereafter expressed, all
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 35
1609.
those lands in Virginia, from Cape or Point Comfort along the
coast to the northward 200 miles, and southward 200 miles, and
into the land from sea to sea, also all the islands within the
100 miles along the coasts of both seas of the precinct aforesaid,
with all the soils, havens, minerals, waters, privileges, &c., what-
soever, is as ample manner as his Majesty has granted to any
Company or Adventurer into foreign parts, to the sole use of them
and their successors, yielding the h'fth part only of gold and silver.
And said Treasurer, &c., shall distribute portions of land, &c., to
Adventurers and Planters, wherein respect shall be had as well of
the proportion of the adventure as of the merit of any person.
And his Majesty ordains that there shall be perpetually a Council
here resident, with a seal for government of said plantation, besides
the legal seal of the Company as in former Letters Patents ex-
pressed ; that Henry Earl of Southampton, &c. (here follows a list
of Earls, Lords, Knights, and others, including Sir Thomas Smithy
occupying 19 lines), shall be his Majesty's Council for said Com-
pany ; and Sir Thomas Smith, Treasurer. And said Treasurer and
Council shall be henceforth nominated, chosen and altered out of
said Company by the major part of said Council and Adventurers ;
provided that every Councillor so elected, shall be presented to the
Lord Chancellor, Lord High Treasurer, or Lord Chamberlain to
take his oath. And if said Treasurer be sick or absent, he may
appoint one of the Council (allowed by said Council) to be Deputy
Treasurer, and execute all things belonging to said Treasurer. And
further his Majesty grants to said Council power to constitute and
discharge governors and officers, and to make and revoke all manner
of laws and ceremonies necessary for the government of said
Colony, and upon the seas going and coming to and from said
Colony. And his Majesty declares that from the time that the
Governor appointed by said Council shall arrive in said Colony the
authority of the President and Council by former Letters Patent
there established, and all laws by them made shall utterly cease ;
straitly charging the President and Council now resident in said
Colony to be obedient to such Governor. And said Treasurer and
Council shall have power to admit any person into their Company,
and in a general assembly of the Adventurers, with the consent of
the major part upon good cause, to pat any person out of said
Company ; also to search for and . enjoy all manner of mines and
minerals in any part of the mainland not formerly granted to any
other, yielding as aforesaid ; and to take to said plantation such of
his Majesty's subjects, and strangers who will become his Majesty's
subjects, as shall willingly accompany them, with sufficient shipping,
weapons, victuals, ware, cattle, and all things necessary for use,
defence, and trade, without paying any custom or tax for the space
of seven years ; provided that none of said persons be by name
restrained by his Majesty, his heirs or successors. And said Com-
pany shall be free of all customs in Virginia for one and twenty
years, and from all taxes for ever upon importation and expor-
tation from or into any of his Majesty's domSiions, except 5 per
cent, custom on goods imported ; and such custom being paid it
shall be lawful for them to export said goods into foreign parts
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1609.
without any other duty, within thirteen months after landing.
And said Treasurer, Company, and their officers, may resist by force
of arms all that shall attempt to inhabit within the precincts of
said Colony, without their special license or enterprise any annoy-
ance to the same ; and may take all persons with their ships and
goods trafficking within said precincts, until they shall pay to said.
Treasurer, &c., above such custom as the Company shall pay, if of
any persons of his Majesty's dominions five pounds, and if strangers
ten pounds per cent, on all goods carried in and out, said sums
for 21 years to be wholly employed to the benefit of said Colony,
and afterwards to the use of his Majesty. And all his Majesty's
subjects which shall go to said plantation and their posterity, shall
enjoy all liberties, &c., as if abiding and born in England. And his
Majesty grants to said Treasurer and Company and their officers
power to punish and govern all that shall adventure in any voyage
thither or inhabit said Colony, according to such order as shall be
established by said Council agreeable to the laws of England ; and
to exercise martial law in cases of rebellion or mutiny. If any
person shall transport monies or goods out of his Majesty's king-
doms, with a pretence to dispose of them within said Colony, and
afterwards shall carry the same to sell in any foreign countries,
said goods and the ship shall be forfeited to his Majesty. These
presents to be interpreted in the most beneficial manner for
said Treasurer and Company ; and his Majesty confirms all
privileges, &c., granted in his former Letters Patents [of 10 April
1606] and not in these revoked or altered. Finally, all persons
admitted by . c ;aid Council and Company as adventurers of said
Colony and enrolled in the book of Adventurers, shall enjoy all
the privileges, profits, &c., as amply as if they had been named in
these Letters Patents ; and lastly, because the principal effect his
Majesty can desire of this action is the conversion of the people in
those parts to the tr,ue worship of God, in which respect his
Majesty would be loath that any should pass that affect the super-
stitions of the Church of Rome, none shall be permitted to pass in
any voyage to said country, but such as first shall have taken the
Oath of Supremacy, which the Treasurer and any three of the
Council may tender to all such as shall be sent on said voyage.
[8 Membranes, Patent Roll, 7 Jew. /., Part 8. Printed in Hazard.]
1610.
May 2. 50. Letters Patent to Henry Earl of Northampton, Keeper of
the Privy Seal ; Sir Laurence Cranfield, Chief Baron of the Ex-
chequer; Sir John Doddridge; Sir Francis Bacon, Solicitor General ;
Sir Daniel Dunn, Sir Walter Cope, Sir Percival Willoughby, and
Sir John Constable, John Weld, Esq., Wm. Freeman, Raphe
Freeman, John Slany, Humphrey Slany, Wm. Turner, Robt.
Kirkham, John Weld, gent., Rich. Fishborne, John Browne,
Humphrey Spencer, Thos. Juxon, John Stukeley, Ellir Crispe,
Thos. Alport, Fras. Needham, Wm. Jones, Thos. Langton, Phillip
Gifford, John Whittington, Edward Allen, Richard Bowdley,
Thos. Jones, Simon Stone, John Short, John Vigars, John Juxon,
Rich. Hobby, Robt. Alder, Mathew Haviland, Thos. Aldworth,
Wm. Lewes, John Guy, Richard Hallwortbie, John Langton,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 37
1610.
Humfrey Hooke, Philip Guy, Wm. Merridith, Adrian Jenninges,
and John Dowghtye, their heirs and assigns, to be one body or
" commynalty," known and incorporated by the name of the
Treasurer and Company of Adventurers and Planters of the City
of London and Bristol for the Colony or Plantation in New-
foundland. Being desirous to establish a colony or colonies in the
southern and eastern parts of Newfoundland, unto the coast and
harbour whereof our subjects for fifty years and upwards yearly
used to resort in no small numbers t > fish, intending to secure said
trade of fishing for ever, We, being well assured that the lands
and countries adjoining said coasts where our subjects used to fish
remain so desolate of inhabitants that scarce any one savage person
hath in many years been seen in the most parts thereof, and well
knowing the same is very commodious for us and our dominions,
and that by the law of nature and nations we may possess our-
selves and make grant thereof without doing wrong to any other
Prince or State, considering they cannot justly pretend any
sovereignty or right thereunto, in respect the same is not pos-
sessed or inhabited by any Christian or any other whomsoever ;
and therefore thinking it an action well beseeming a Christian
King to make true use of that which God created for mankind,
but principally to increase the knowledge of the Omnipotent God
and the propagation of our Christian faith, We have accepted their
suit, and by these presents grant to those above named all that
portion of Newfoundland, with the reservations and limitations
hereafter expressed, to the southward of the parallel line to pass by
the Cape Bonwiste (Bonavista ?) inclusive, which cape is to the
northward of Trinity Bay, and to the eastward of the meridian
line to pass by Capo Saint Maries inclusive, which cape is to the
eastward of Placentia Bay, together with the seas and islands
within ten leagues of the sea coast, and all lands and islands
between 46 and 52 degrees of N. latitude, with all mines,
minerals, and precious stones, fishings, huntings, and commodities,
&c., and all prerogatives, royalties, franchises, &c., whatsoever.
Nevertheless that there be unto all persons of what nation soever,
and to our subjects who do at present or hereafter shall trade to
the parts aforesaid for fishing, all liberties, powers, and easements,
and all other benefits whatsoever, as well concerning their t-aid
fishing as all other circumstances, in as large and ample manner
as they have heretofore enjoyed the same, without disturbance or
exaction, anything in these presents to the contrary notwith-
standing. To have and to hold said lands and territories to the
sole and proper use of said Treasurer and Company, their successors
and assigns, as of our manor of East Greenwich, paying the fifth
part of gold and silver ore. A Council of twelve persons resident
in London to be established, to order and govern all matters arising
in said plantation. Said Council to have a seal besides the legal
seal of the Company, with arms on one side and our portraiture on
the other side ; the legal seal to have engraved on both sides the
words : Sigillum Thesaurarii et Commitatis Terre Nove, and the
seal for the Council on one side Sigillum Magni. Britain. Franc.
et Hibern., and on the other side Per Consilio Terre Nove. Sir
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1610.
Percival Willoughby, John Weld, Esq., Raphe Freeman, Rich.
Fishburne, John Stukejy, Wm. Turner, Win. Jones, John Slany,
Hump. Slany, John Weld, gent., Thos. Juxon, and Thos. Jones to
be the Council, John Slany, Treasurer, with authority to warn the
Council and summon the Company to their Courts and meetings,
said Council and Treasurer to be hereafter chosen out of the Comp.
by the voice of the greater part. With power to make a coin
to pass current in said Territories of Newfoundland, of such metal
and form as said Council shall appoint. The Treasurer to have
power to appoint a Deputy with consent of the Council, in case
of sickness or otherwise absent. And the Council to appoint
Governors, Officers, and Ministers for the government of any colony
in said territories, and to establish laws, &c., necessary for the
government of said colonies, and revoke same, as also upon the
seas in going to and fro. From the time of the arrival in New-
foundland of such Governor or principal Officer appointed by said
Council and his giving notice of his Commission, all Officers,
Governors, and Ministers formerly constituted shall be discharged,
and upon their allegiance be obedient to such government. With
power to said Treasurer and Council, or any five of them, the
Treasurer being one, to grant the freedom of their Company, with
consent of the majority, and upon good cause to disfranchise any
person. Power to "dig for minerals and enjoy the same, paying to
us, our heirs and successors as aforesaid; also to take over our
subjects or any strangers that will become so and live under our
allegiance, with shipping, ordnance, victuals and merchandize,
cattle, horses, and all other necessaries for the use, defence, and
trade of the people there if any be inhabiting, without payment of
custom or any other tax for seven years from the date of these
presents, and to be free of subsidies and customs in Newfoundland
for one and twenty years, and from all taxes and impositions for
ever upon any imports or exports to or from England or our
dominions, except five per cent, when it shall be lawful to carry
them into foreign parts, provided said goods be shipped out within
thirteen months after the first landing within any part of those
dominions. Power to Governor and Officers of said Council of
government over any colony or plantation in the limits aforesaid,
and to resist by force of arms, by sea and land, any attempting to
inhabit within said limits without license, and to seise their ships
and goods ; and being allowed by said Comp. to be adventurers
or planters, to pay, over and above the subsidy and custom paid
by said Comp., five per cent, upon all goods brought in other than
for the necessary use of fishing as hath been heretofore accus-
tomed, and also five per cent, upon all goods shipped out from
thence with said exception, and strangers and not under our
obedience, ten per cent., which for twenty-one years shall be
wholly employed for the benefit of said Company or plantation,
after which same shall be taken to the use of us, our heirs and
successors. All persons inhabiting said colony being our subjects,
with their children born therein, to be free denizens and natural
subjects. And forasmuch as it shall be necessary for all who
shall inhabit within the territories of Newfoundland to determine
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 39
1610.
to live together in the fear and true worship of Almighty God,
Christian peace, and civil quietness each with other, whereby
every one may with more safety, pleasure, and profit enjoy that
whereunto they shall attain with great pains and perils, absolute
power is granted to said Company to punish, pardon, and govern
all inhabiting within said territories or in the way by the seas
thither, as well in cases criminal as civil and marine, as near as
conveniently may be to the laws of England, with power of martial
law in rebellion or mutiny. If any adventurers or planters of
said colony transport money or goods out of our kingdom for said
territories and carry same into any foreign country, said goods,
chattels, and ships shall be forfeited to us, our heirs and successors.
All questions and doubts in the^e Letters Patent to be interpreted
in the most beneficial manner to said Company. All adventuring
any suras of money towards said colony or colonies in New-
foundland, who shall be admitted and enrolled in the book or
record of adventurers of said Company, to have the same benefits
and privileges as though their names were inserted in these Letters
Patent. Lastly, because the principal effect which we can desire
or expect of this action is the conversion of the people in those
parts, if any be there inhabiting, unto the true worship of
God and Christian religion, in which respect we would be loth
that any person should be permitted to pass that we suspect to
affect the superstitions of the Church of Kome, that none be per-
mitted to pass to said territories without taking the oath of
supremacy before said Treasurer and Council of said Company.
Provided always, that if any persons of said colony rob or spoil,
by sea or land, any of our subjects or of those in amity with us,
and after proclamation shall not make full restitution and satis-
faction, it shall be lawful to pursue said offenders with hostility.
[Patent Roll, 8 Jas. I., Part 8.] There is an extract only of this
patent in 1st Vol. of this Calendar, p. 21, No. 41, I. Patents were
also granted to Sir Geo. Calvert on 31 Dec. 1622 and on 7 April
1623, and to the Marquis of Hamilton, Earl of Pembrolce, Earl of
Holland, and Sir David Kirke, on 13 Nov. 1637. See 1st Vol. of
this Calendar, p. 2 60.
1611.
Feb. 6. 51. Sir Ralph Winwood to Lord Treasurer Salisbury. Has
The Hague, received his Lordship's letters in favor of Sir Thomas Gates ; and
because the like motion some few days before was made for Sir
Thomas Dale, which the Prince was pleased to recommend to the
States Ambassadors when they were in England, whereunto the
States General gave this answer, that during his absence for three
years his company should be upholden for him, but in the mean-
time the " treatment " for his person as Captain should cease,
fearing Sir Thomas Gates should find no greater favor, he first
acquainted Count Maurice with the charge he had received from
his Majesty, and then Mons. Barnevelt, before his audience with
the States General, whom he addressed in these words [Speech in
French]. Your Lordships have heard, for it is noised everywhere
abroad, howsome English Lords and other honorable gentlemen of
quality, at their expense, have undertaken to plant a colony of our
40 COLONIAL PAPEBS.
1611,
nation in Virginia. Among others who have laboured for the
success of this design, there is not one who has not done more to
advance it than one of your Captains named Sir Thomas Gates,
who the past year was there, where the providence of God led him,
after having run the risk of shipwreck, being cast in a tempest
upon the Bermudas, where he dwelt with all his followers more
than forty weeks. His Majesty of Great Britain desiring the
happy issue of this undertaking because of the good which he
foresees will arise out of it, as well for the Christian religion as for
the increase of commerce, is of opinion that nobody is more fit to
be employed there than said Sir Thomas Gates, as well for his
sufficiency as for the knowledge (practique) he has of these
quarters of the world. This is why his Majesty has commanded
me to beg your Lordships in his name and on his behalf, that with
your kind permission he may be able to make once more a tour in
those countries and remain for some time there to govern the
Colony, until your service recalls him home; and still that his
Company may be entertained until his return, under the charge of
his lieutenant and other officers. It is no great thing ; and besides
these little favours draw closer together the bonds of friends and
allies. It must not be feared that this demand will be drawn into a
precedent, for there is only he and Captain Dale destined for
employment in this service. I beseech your prompt resolution ;
the business does not require long deliberation. Sir Thomas Gates
is under orders and the four ships destined this time for the voyage
to Virginia are ready to set sail and only await a (favurable)
wind and his coming. To this speech the States General made
answer through their President that they were content, that, at his
Majesty's instance, Sir Thomas Gates might be employed in
Virginia, during which time his company should be entertained,
but his treatment as Captain to cease. Winwood answered that
was the mulct ordinarily imposed on them who were absent
without leave, but the President replied the resolution was taken
by the States and could not be altered. Requested them to advise
better of it, and send an answer in writing ; encloses copy, having
delivered the original to Sir Thomas Gates. The States think they
do him an extraordinary favor to bind themselves during his
absence to the upholding of his Company. Encloses,
51. i. Answer of the States General to the proposition made
for Sir Thos. Gates. The States General of the United
Provinces of the Low Countries having deliberately ad-
vised upon the recommendation made in their assembly
by Sir Ralph Winwood, Ambassador from the King of
Great Britain, in favour of Thomas Gates, Captain of an
English Company in their service, to be permitted to
absent himself from his Company for the time that his
Majesty will wish to employ him on the voyage he is
about to make with four ships to Virginia, or for such
time as their Lordships may wish to limit him to, allowing
him nevertheless to enjoy his ordinary treatmemt of
Captain, &c., declare that they desire nothing more than
to please and serve his Majesty ia all things, when the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES
41
1611.
April 10.
Madrid.
April 23.
Madrid.
Nov.
Madrid.
Nov. 4.
Madrid.
consequence does not prejudice the interests of their State,
and in this sense they are content to grant Captain Thos.
Gates leave of absence so long as the affairs of thtse
countries will permit, that during such time his Company
be entertained and his post of Captain reserved for him
till he returns, if he likes. Nevertheless, it must be well
understood that during his absence he cannot enjoy his pay
(traictemcnt), and even in this respect the Province will
have particular difficulty in paying his Company. The
States General request the Lord Ambassador to make this
excuse agreeable to his Majesty. French. Together, 5 pp.
[ Correspondence, Holland.]
52. Sir Francis Cottington, Ambassador in Spain, to Lord Treasurer
Salisbury. The ships built at the Havana, and said to be ordained
for a journey into Virginia, are now in Lisbon. Is daily told by
many that from thence shall the Virginian voyage proceed and
with at least forty sail of ships, to which he gives so little credit
(knowing the poor ability of this State) as he is almost ashamed to
advertize it unto his Lordship, yet can assure him out of his own
knowledge that with those plantations they are here so much
troubled as they know not how to behave themselves in the
business. [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
53. Sir Francis Cottington to Lord Treasurer Salisbury. The
rumour of sending from hence certain armed galleons into Virginia
doth daily increase, but he is still so far from believing it as he
would not willingly that his Lordship should so much as dream of
it. [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
54. Hugh Lee to Thomas Wilson, Secretary to Lord Treasurer
Salisbury. The success of Francis Lymbrye, the English pilot
that went out of Portugal to the discovery of Virginia, is happened
unto him as I ever hoped it would, for the carvel that carried him
is returned without him ; but whether he were stayed there against
his will, or that out of his love to his country he stayed himself, I
refer me to the truth which you shall receive from thence ; but
very glad I am that he returned not to make report of what was
committed to him in charge. I hope the advertisement given of
his going will be esteemed for a loyal service. It hath pleased my
Lord Ambassador to acquaint me with this news, unto whose
larger relation I refer you. [Extract, Correspondence, Portugal]
55. Sir " Jhon Digbye " to Lord Treasurer Salisbury. " I
advertized your Lordship of one James Limry an English Pilot
serving the King of Spain, who was sent to the West Indies, and
was said to be returned some few days before the Armada went
out, but I since understand that he remaineth in Virginia, having
been sent thither from the Havana upon discovery, where arriving
he went on shore with the Captain of the ship and one man more,
saying that distress of weather had brought him thither, where-
upon a Pilot was sent aboard to bring in their ship ; but because
this Limry came not aboard, according to his promise! the Master
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1611,
of the ship, growing jealous, set sail and went back to the Havana,
carrying with him the Pilot which was sent aboard him at Virginia.
This news cometh by a Frenchman and an Irishman, who say they
spoke with this English Pilot at the Havana where he was
prisoner, and they say that he is now brought secretly to Seville
in this last fleet, where I will use all diligence for the freeing of
him and sending him speedily home." [Extract Correspondence,
Spain.]
Nov. 15. 56. The King of Spain to his Ambassador in England, Don
From the Pardo. Alonso de Velasco. " Don Alonso de Velasco of my Council, and
my Ambassador in England. A carvel having gone by order of
the Governor of the Havana in search of a ship which sailed from
the port of Carthagena of the Indies with certain artillery which
was there taken from a galeon which touched on the coast of
Buenos Ayres, and having passed by the coast of Florida in that
expedition, and three ,'men of the said carvel, named Diego de
Molina, Marco Antonio Perez, and Master Antonio, landing in good
faith, certain Englishmen took them, who say that by order of the
King of Great Britain they have set foot in the part of that coast
which they call Virginia, of which I have determined to advertize
you, and to command you (as I do) to express to the said King the
just resentment which I feel at the seizure of these men, and that
therefore (I expect) he will give order by the briefest way which
may present itself, to the effect that without doing them any
damage they do give them liberty to return and accomplish the
commission which the Governor of the Havana gave them, and you
shall inform me immediately of the offices which you shall have
done in this matter, and what shall be its result. From the Pardo,
on the 15th of Novr. 1611, I the King. Antonio de Archstepin (?)."
Original in Spanish. Literal Translation. [Correspondence,
Spain.]
57. Sir John Digbye to Lord Treasurer Salisbury. " The
advertisement I gave your Lordship concerning the Englishman
that was brought from Virginia to the Havana is true, and I have
spoken with another Englishman that saw him and spake with him
there, and the man is himself kept prisoner in one of the galleons
at Lisbon. I humbly beseech your Lordship that I may receive
directions in what manner I shall behave myself herein, for that I
believe this accident of demanding his liberty will set the main
question on foot." [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.'}
Dec. 13.
Madrid.
1612.
Feb. 2.
Madrid.
58. Sir John Digbye to Lord Treasurer Salisbury. Departure
of 800 men out of Portugal, and the transporting of 3,200 more, so
that the whole number of men to be sent is 4,000, " all which,
though I conceive are to be carried into Flanders, yet I am
advertized from one that I appointed to be amongst them that
divers of the masters of the ships are discontented and that they
suspect they shall be forced to a far longer journey. The which,
if it be .so, I can only suspect some enterprize of theirs against
Virginia, the which I do not think likely, but in regard that divers
write unto me, though uncertainly, that there is something now in
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 43
1612.
hand against it, I omit not to advertize it unto your Lordship."
[Extract, Correspondence, Spain.] Similar news in his letter to
Sir Dudley Carleton of this date.
March 12. 59. Grant by Letters Patent to the Treasurer, Company, and
Westminster. Adventurers of Virginia. Recites Letters Patent of 23 May 1G09,
[ante No. 49] granted at the suit of divers adventurers and planters
of the first Colony in Virginia. Now, forasmuch as his Majesty
understands that without the compass of said two hundred miles,
and yet not far distant from said Colony, there are divers islands
uninhabited, some discovered by the industry of said Company,
which it may import said Colony to plant, in regard whereof they
are suitors to his Majesty to grant an enlargement of said patent,
as well for an extent of limits as for other matters concerning the
better Government of said Company and Colony. His Majesty,
tendering the good success of said plantation and Company, &c.,
grants to said Treasurer, &c., for ever, all the islands within three
hundred leagues of the parts granted to said Treasurer, &c., in said
Letters Patent, and being within 41 and 30 deg. N.L. with all
lands, waters, minerals, commodities, privileges, &c., whatsoever.
Provided always that said islands be not possessed by any other
Christian Prince or State, or within the bounds of the Northern
Colon}' of Virginia, to enjoy said islands for ever, to be holden of
his Majesty, &c. in free and common soccage, yielding the fifth part
of gold and silver. And further, his Majesty grants (" that posterity
may hereafter know who have adventured, and not been sparing of
their purses in such a noble and generous action for the genera,
good of their country,") that George, Archbishop of Canterbury
Gilbert Earl of Shrewsbury, Mary Countess of Shrewsbury (here
follows a list of earls, countesses, bishops, lords, knights, and
others, occupying 1 membranes) who since said last Letters Patents
have joined with the former adventurers of said Company, shall
henceforth be free members of the Company, and shall, according
to the proportion of their, adventure, enjoy all rights, privileges,
profits, &c., in as ample manner as any other adventurers nominated
in any former Letters Patents. And his Majesty further grants
that Philip Earl of Montgomery, William Lord Paget, Sir John
Harrington, Sir Willm. Cavendish, Sir 'John Sammes (sic), Sir
Samuel Sandys, Sir Thomas Freke, Sir William St. John, Sir Richard
Grobham, Sir Thomas Dale, Sir Cavalliero Maycott, Richard
Martin, John Bingley, Thomas Watson, and Arthure Ingram, whom
said Treasurer and Company have nominated, shall be of his
Majesty's Council for said first Colony. And his Majesty grants that
said Treasurer, &c., shall, once every week or oftener, hold a Court
for ordering said plantation, and that any five of said Council (of
which the Treasurer or his deputy to be one), and fifteen at least
of the generality, shall be a sufficient Court for dispatching casual
matters of less weight touching said plantation, and that for the
handling of affairs of great importance, as the manner of govern-
ment, disposing of said possessions, and establishing of trade, there
shall be held upon the last Wednesday save one of Hilary, Easter,
Trinity, and Michaelmas terms for ever, a General and Solemn
44 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1611
Assembly or Court; and the greater number so assembled shall
have power to elect persons to be of " Our Council " for said Colony,
nominate officers, make laws for the good of said plantation not
contrary to the laws of England, and disfranchise from their
Company all such as shall refuse or neglect to put in their
adventure within six months after same shall be due. And
whereas the non-payment of such monies promised in adventure has
been found much to have hindered the progress of said plantation,
and it seems reasonable that persons neglecting their promise
should be compellable to make good the same, his Majesty's pleasure
is that in any suits commenced by said Treasurer, &c., against such
persons, the Judges both in the Courts of Chancery and Common
Law further such suits, so far forth as law and equity will permit.
And his Majesty further grants to said Treasurer, Company, &c.
that the greater part of them in General Court assembled, may
elect into their Company as well aliens (born in any parts in amity
with his Majesty) as natural subjects, who shall enjoy all privileges,
profits, &c., to the Company belonging, as amply as any other
adventurer ; that it shall be lawful for them to transport to said
Colony all such of his Majesty's subjects, or strangers that will
become his Majesty's subjects, as shall willingly accompany them,
with shipping, munition, victuals, merchandize, furniture, beasts,
and all other things necessary for plantation, defence, and trade,
without yielding any custom or duty for seven years; and that
said Treasurer or his deputy or any two others of said Council shall
have power to minister the oaths of supremacy and allegiance to
all who shall pass to said Colony, and to minister such a formal
oath as by them shall be devised to all persons employed touching
said plantation, for faithful discharge of their service, also to such
persons as they shall think meet for examination in any cause
concerning said plantation. And whereas his Majesty has been
certified that divers lewd persons having received entertainment
from said Company or having contracted to be emploj'ed in said
plantation, have withdrawn or refused to go thither, and that divers
persons employed in said plantations have misbehaved themselves
by mutinies, &c., or having been sent abroad by the Governor
of Virginia for some discovery or other business, have most
treacherously returned to England by stealth, or have been sent
hither as misdoersi, and having been questioned by Council, have
by their insolent carriage shown little respect to the authority to
which his Majesty has appointed them, and by most vile and
slanderous reports, as well of the country of Virginia as of the
government, have done as much as in them lay to bring said
plantation into contempt, by means whereof not only the adventurers
have been exceedingly abused, and a great number of others
discouraged from joining in so noble, Christian, and worthy an
action, but also the utter ruin of the same has been greatly
endangered. Now, forasmuch as it appears that these abuses have
grown in regard said Council have not power by said former
Letters Patent to chastize such offenders, his Majesty for reforma-
tion of so enormous abuses grants to said Treasurer, c., that it
shall be lawful for any two of said Council (of which said Treasurer
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
45
1612.
June 20.
Madrid.
Aug. 21.
Madrid.
Sept. 1.
Madrid.
or Deputy to be one) to cause to be apprehended every such
person as shall misbehave as before mentioned, and upon examina-
tion and proof before said Council of such misdemeanors, or upon
uny insolent carriage to said Council, to bind them over with good
security fur their good behaviour or remand them back to said
Colony to be proceeded against according to the laws in use there.
And for the more effectual advancing of said plantation, his
Majesty, by the consent of his Privy Council, grants said Treasurer
and Company license to publish lotteries, to be held for a whole
year, and afterwards they shall have six months warning before
his Majesty's pleasure shall be deemed altered, said lotteries to be
held within this realm of England, and with such prizes, conditions,
&c., as to said Treasurer, &c., shall seem convenient. And it shall
be lawful for said Treasurer, &c., to elect receivers and other officers
for the governing of said lotteries, and administer oaths to them
for their true dealing, and to publish by proclamation said lotteries
in all cities, towns, boroughs, thoroughfares, and other places within
England. And his Majesty wills all mayors, justices, sheriffs,
bailiffs, constables, and other his officers and subjects to be aiding
and assisting said lotteries by all lawful means. And his Majesty
confirms to said Treasurer, &c., all manner of privileges, &c., granted
them in any his Letters Patent, and not in these presents revoked,
altered or abridged. 7 membs. [Patent Roll, 9 Jas. I., Part 14.]
60. Sir John Digbye to Sir Dudley Carleton. " They are very
much displeased with our new discovery of the North-West passage,
but more particularly with our Plantation of Virginia, which they
stick not now to say, that if his Majesty will not cause it to be
recalled, this King will be forced by a strong hand to essay the
removal of it ; and I hear that Don Pedro de Cunega hath com-
mission to move his Majesty that his subjects may desist from any
farther proceeding therein. If he have, I doubt not but he will
receive a cold answer, and for their doing anything by the way of
hostility, I conceive they will be very ^low to give England (who
is very apt to lay hold on any occasion) so just a pretence to be
doing with them." {Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
61. Sir John Digbye to the King. " I have formerly advertized
your Majesty of a report come unto Seville that three or four of
this King's galleons should be cast away upon the coast of Florida,
which went forth with an intent to have attempted somewhat
against the English Plantation in Virginia. But though this news
be not absolutely contradicted, yet I can learn so small ground for
the report thereof that I conceive it to be likelier to be untrue than
otherwise." [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
62. Sir John Digbye to the King. Has endeavoured to inform
himself of the reasons for the stay of Don Pedro de Cunega in
England being longer than his Majesty expected. When he was
sent from thence he had three buainesses in which he was in-
structed to carry himself according to the state he should find
them in at his coming thither. The first was concerning the matcU
46
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1612.
between the Lady Elizabeth, his Majesty's daughter, and the Count
Palatine. " His second business was concerning Virginia, in which
he was likewise not to make any proposition unto your Majesty,
but upon second directions from hence, when he should have learned
and advertized what your Majesty's inclination was, and what your
answer was like to be, for that in case he should perceive that
your Majesty was not likely to give way to that which by this
King should be propounded, he should avoid the having of a
peremptory negative given unto his Master." The third business
was concerning the Treaties of Marriages now in hand for the
Prince his Highness, &c. [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
Sept. 13.
Madrid.
Sept. 22.
Madrid.
63. Sir John Digbye to the King. " It is here held for certain
that this King will not permit our Plantations at Virginia and the
Bermudas, in so much that it is here publicly and avowedly spoken
in the Court that they will shortly attempt the removing of them,
and I have letters from some in the Fleet with Don Luys de
Fajardo, who is now at Cales (Cadiz) ready to put to sea, that so
soon as he hath conducted home the West Indian Fleet he shall go
to the Havana and winter there, and from thence in the beginning
of the spring shall attempt Virginia. But thereunto I give not
much credit, for that I am- informed here from good part that
there hath been of late a consultation and almost a resolution
taken, that one Don Diego Brochero, now of the Council of War
and a great Commander at Sea, shall have the conducting of this
enterprise, and that he shall go from Portugal, where this King's
navy is commanded to meet under colour and pretence of the
King's remaining at Lisbon. But of these things I shall use all
the diligence I may to attain unto the truth," &c. [Extract,
Correspondence, Spain.]
64. Sir John Digbye to Sir Dudley Carleton. " There is nothing
so generally spoken of in this Court as their intent to remove our
Plantation in Virginia, and for mine own part I am of belief that
the Spaniards will serve us as they did the Frenchmen in Florida,
unless we undertake the business much more thoroughly and
roundly than hitherto we have done ; but hereof they have had
sufficient warning in England." [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
Nov. 12.
Madrid.
65. Sir John Digbye to the King. I got a view of Don Pedro
de Cunega's despatch. The chief matters were . . . . " That
there was no cause to apprehend so much danger in Virginia as
they did in Spain, there being only, as he certainly learned, five
hundred men, who had of late suffered great extremity and misery,
and that the first undertakers were grown so weary of supplying
the charge, thut they were fain to make a general kind of begging
(for so he termed it) by the way of a lottery for the furnishing
out of those ships and men which were now sent. So that he
judged it not fit to make any kind of mention thereof unto your
Majesty, both for that he held it not unlikely that the business
might sink of itself, since it was maintained but by these shifts,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
47
1613.
Jan. 2G.
Paris.
Feb. 18.
Madrid.
Feb. 21.
Lisbou.
which could Jast but for a year or two, and likewise for that he
was certainly informed that if he should propound the having of
the Plantation revoked, it would in no kind be condescended unto."
[Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
66. Sir Thos. Eclmondes to the King. " Though I make no
doubt but that your Majesty is otherwise sufficiently advertized
of that which passeth in Spain, nevertheless I hold it my duty to
make known unto your Majesty that many advertisements which
I have seen, both out of Italy and from other parts, do report that
the intent of the preparations which the King of Spain maketh by
sea is certainly to employ the same this Spring for the removing of
our Plantation in Virginia."
[Extract, Correspondence, France.]
67. Sir John Digbye to the King. It is true they make ready
their fleet at Lisbon . . . The only action which I conceive
possible (and indeed .something probable) for them to enter into is
to essay the removing of the English from their Plantation in
Virginia, the which they here generally profess toucheth this King,
both in honor, and likewise in prevention of the inconvenience
which the English settling there may procure to their West Indies
not to permit. And this very day they have clapped up into close
prison Clarke, the English Pilot, whom two years since they
brought from Virginia, having formerly used him well and per-
mitted him his liberty, only being attended by a keeper.
If they attempt anything against Virginia it will be with the
West Indian galleons from the Havana, in the Island of Cuba,
with the forces of those parts. I do mean presently to send down
a couple of fit persons whom I have provided, to enter themselves
into this King's service in his navy, who, I hope, will be able to
attain in some part to the knowledge of their intents, and to
advertise me from time to time of such things as they shall be
able to learn. [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
68. Extract from Letter from Lisbon. Here is sudden
commandment given for the preparing thirteen sail of shipping
to be ready to set sail by the 15th ,of March next. First
they are to sail unto Cadiz, there to take in soldiers, munition,
and victuals, from thence it is divulged amongst the common
sort that they are to go unto the Bermudas, there to inhabit.
Others say plainly that they go where the English shall pay
for it, which is for Virginia, for that is the mark they shoot at,
as their own proceedings do manifest ; for in their entertainment,
they receive of all nations that will offer themselves to go in this
ser\ ice, Almains, Italians, French, and Irish, but neither English,
Scottish, nor Dutch will be permitted nor entertained to go in the
voyage. To such strangers as will come there shall be given nine
months pay. Eight of the ships are carvels of about 100 tons
apiece, nimble sailing vessels, lit for transportation but of no
defence, neither to give offence to any shipping. The other five
are ships of 150 or 200 tons, and are furnished in warlike manner.
[Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
COLONIAL PAPEfcS.
1613.
March 5. 69. Sir John Digbye to the King. All possible diligence used
Madrid. for making ready the shipping and soldiers, so that by the end of
April they intend certainly to put io sea. Those that I employ
send me word that they every da} T grow more to doubt that there
will be something attempted against the plantation in Virginia,
and they are strengthened in this their belief, for that though they
have so great want of men, that they have made public pro-
clamations that whosoever will serve in this voyage shall receive
nine months pay beforehand, yet they refuse to admit of English,
Scottish, arid Hollanders, but not of Irish. But men of good
judgment here in Court (and in whom I have reason to have some
confidence) assure me that there is no such intent. But, how-
soever, it will be requisite that those of Virginia live in a continual
expectation of being assailed, for first or last the Spaniards will
certainly attempt them, for thereof they make already public
profession. [Extract, Correspondence, Spain."]
April $. 70. Advertisements sent from Don Alonso de Velasco, Ambas-
sador in England, with the Council's opinion of them and the
King's direction. Three matters of great consideration in the
despatches of Don Velasco. . . . The third, for change of
the prisoners, it is good to procure, that that may take effect which
hath been agreed upon, and that perfect and true information be
procured of the estate of Virginia, which, if the Ambassador
already have not, be must procure speedily, and accordingly the
fitting remedy must be ordained ; and in case it do certainly appear
to be a matter of consequence, provision must be made to rjprnove
the English from thence. The Marquis de Velada agreetn with
Don Juan de Idiaques, and holdeth it convenient, that this matter
of Virginia be looked unto with much cave, for that if it should be
so prejudicial for the Indies (as some do say), a remedy may be
provided speedily. The Duke of Infantado, the Marquis de Villa
Franca, and the Marquis de La Laguna agreeth. The King's
opinion was that order should be given in all the particulars
according to the opinion of the lords. [Extract, Correspondence,
Spain.]
April 24.
Paris.
April 28.
Paris.
May 13.
Madrid.
71. Sir Thos. Edmondes to the King. Word brought to him
that Mons. de Hauterive, a nephew of Mons. de Villeroy's, who is
newly arrived out of Spain, is certainly informed that the Fleet
which is there preparing for the West Indies, is intended to be
employed for the removing of our plantation in Virginia. [Extract,
Correspondence, France.]
72. Sir Thos. Edmondes to the King. " I have again understood
that part of the forces which are prepared in Spain are certainly
intended to remove our plantation in Virginia." [Extract, Corre-
spondence, Spain.]
73. Sir John Digbye to the King. They have further the last
week had a consultation concerning Virginia, but their resolution
is not to stir therein until they shall be better informed of the true
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 49
1613,
state thereof. For that here, by the advertisements that they
have had out of England, they are yet in a great hope that the
business will fall of itself, though Don Pedro de Cunega at his last
being in England, moved that the removing of our plantation might
be no longer deferred, as your Majesty shall see by the copy of a
letter sent from him in September last. Encloses,
73. I. Don Pedro de Cunega, Spanish Ambassador in England to
the King of Spain. There is come hither a ship from
Virginia, and although some principal men and others
suppose that the Plantation there doth rather diminish
than increase, I have understood by a friend of good
credit, that they treat and have a determination to marry
some of the people that go thither with the Virginians,
and he telleth me that there are forty or fifty persons
already married there, and other English intermingled
with them, and that the women which were sent over live
amongst the Virginians, and are received and used kindly
by them, and that they wounded a certain zealous
minister of their sect for reprehending it. They have
made a lottery, out of which they will raise 20 thousand
ducats, and herewith will send away six ships with all
the people they can procure. Upon this pretext of their
turning infidels it will be an easy matter to remove these
people from thence in the beginning, for the not punishing
hereof is the cause why they so boldly attempt others, as
your Majesty may well perceive ; for they have already
houses and begin another plantation in Terra Nova, in
the parts where the great fishings are, and now it will be
to the purpose to punish it, which, if it may be done, they
shall perceive that your Majesty will not proceed with
them altogether by entreaty, which hath already made
them more presumptuous than their own forces can
promise them. God preserve your Majesty. A short
abstract of this inclosure is in the first volume of this
Calendar. [Correspondence, Spain.]
JMay 22 74. Sir John Digbye to Sir Dudley Carleton. Concerning our plan-
Madrid, tation of Virginia (which I have often written unto your Lordship is
a great eyesore unto them) they have lately had several consultations
about it. Their resolution is that it must be removed, though they
have thought it fit for a while to suspend the execution till they
get perfect information of the state thereof, for that they are not
yet out of hope that the business may fall of itself, since they see
it not maintained by the King or State, but only upheld by
lotteries and such like uncertain shifts. Our new plantation of the
" Vermudos " (Bermudas) prospereth better than that of Virginia ;
good commodities brought from thence ; a ship sent thither last
year to attempt the discovery, returned without having done
anything, the Captain, &c., brought to Madrid in chains to be
proceeded against, [Extract, Correspondence, Spain,]
y 72843,
50
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1(513.
May 26.
Madrid.
June 4.
Madrid.
July ?
Aug. 15.
Madrid.
75. Sir John Digbye to Sir Thomas Lake. They have lately
had h^re several consultations about our Plantation in Virginia.
The resolution is that it must be removed ; but they think it fit to
suspend the execution of it till they receive perfect information in
what state it now is, for that they are in hope that it will fall of
itself. They have given precise order to their Ambassador speedily
to advertize what he can learn of it, and that he use all means for
the restitution of the Spaniards that were left there, and to this end
have clapt up Clarke, the English Pilot, into close prison, and I hear
they mean to send him to the Gallies, hoping thereby that Clarke's
friends to redeem him will labour for the restitution of the other,
by whom they hope to discover the true state of Virginia, [Extract,
Correspondence, Spain.]
76. Sir John Digbye to the King. " There went from hence the
Spanish Ambassador in England, with directions to this effect :
That though it was conceived by the King of Spain that the
plantation and fortification of the English in Virginia need not (in
the case it now standeth) give much cause of fear, yet to the end
that here may be taken the fullest resolutions, he commandeth
him to procure a true and certain information of the present estate
thereof, and what the intent of your Majesty and the English is in
this point, and whether businesses of that nature grow not much
colder since the death of the late Prince, and likewise that he inform
himself very particularly concerning the ' Vermudos ' and give speedy
advertisement hither." [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]*,
77. Extract from the Secret Instructions of Don Diego Sanniento
de Acuna, sent by the King of Spain as his Ambassador into
England. " And it shall be fit for you, having perused those copies
(of despatches sent heretofore to Don Pedro de Zuniga, Marques de
Flores et Avila), and having informed yourself upon them from the
said Marques, and Don Alonso de Velasco, in what estate these
matters (the marriages made with France) stand, as also these others
specified in the said copies, about the league of the Protestants, the
peopling of Virginia, the suits of the English, of the Pirates and of
the Consuls, that you prosecute all those matters as if they were
here given you in your Instructions, and that you advertize me
often of whatsoever shall succeed thereupon." Translation*
[Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
78. Sir John Digbye to the King. Desire of this State to main-
tain peace ; they meddle not in slight or uncertain enterprises ; if
they were fit for war, and that any occasion of important advantage
were offered, they would not omit to lay hold of it ; " but herein
1 likewise restrain myself to these parts of the world, for that I
know they would have attempted the removing of the English from
Virginia, but that they are certainly informed the business will fall
of itself ; and within these two days I know both the Council of
War and of State have set about the overthrowing of our new
plantation in the Bermudas." [Extract, Correspondence, Spain.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
51
1613.
Sept. 3.
Madrid.
Sept. 22.
Madrid.
Oct. 11.
Paris.
Oct. 13.
Madrid.
Dec. 8.
From my
Chamber in
King Street.
79. Sir John Digbye to the King. "Touching Virginia, the
Spanish Ambassador in England hath received letters from Molina,
the Spaniard that is there, of the misery and distress in which they
live ; so that it is determined by this Council not to speak any
more iu that business, being a thing (they suppose) which will die
of itself; only it is ordered that the Spanish Ambassador shall,
represent unto your Majesty the ill-usage that the Spaniards have
had in Virginia, and that one of them is dead with hunger, notwith-
standing that the English Pilot which was brought from thence and
is here, hath been ever very well used." [Extract, Correspondence,
Spain.]
80. Sir John Digbye to the King. Has found the means to come
by his (the Conde de Gondomar, the Spanish Ambassador in
England) despatch. Here follows " the true estate in which I find the
businesses of this King and kingdom." " He advertiseth further,
divers things concerning Don Alonso de Velasco's departure, and
your Majesty's bounty in presenting him, as likewise of the state
of our people in Virginia, and of the course which is held in the
newjplantation in the Vermudos." In Cypher deciphered. [Extract,
Correspondence, Spain."]
81. Sir Thos. Edmondes to the King. Understands that they are
nothing well satisfied here, that the French ships were hindered
this year by the English, from the making of any benefit of the
whale fishing at Greenland, which discontentment is also further
aggravated by another advertisement which is come hither, that
the English ships at Virginia took a French ship which was going
to make a plantation in those parts, and killed divers of the men,
and, as they here say, used greatest cruelty against certain Jesuits
which were in the said ship. [Extract, Correspondence, France.]
Admiral de Montmorency in a letter to King James complains of
these depredations committed by Sam Argoll, Capt. of the Treasurer,
see First Volume of this Calendar, p. 15.
82. Sir John Digbye to the King. In reference to the despatch
of the Spanish Ambassador, " It is appointed, that for the business
of Virginia and the Bermudas, his advertisements be made known
unto the Council of the Indies, and that the Spanish Ambassador
be willed to advertize what he shall further hear of them, and that
the Spanish Ambassador particularly labour to get the liberty of Don
Diego Molina, the Spaniard that was left in Virginia." [Extract,
Correspondence, Spain.]
83. Sir Henry Wotton to Secretary Sir Thos. Lake. "Con-
cerning the complaint of the Town of Rochelle against a certain
disturber of their fishing, which is found to be a man of Bristowe
(Bristol) haunting that part of the Newfoundlands which they
have baptised Nova Francia. This seemeth to imply somewhat
more than a bare complaint against violence on the sea ; the
Rochellers indeed being rather jealous of the man's habitation
there, and of his seizure on the land, which they interpret a kind
Of intrusion upon that continent where the Fren-h hrxvo continued
52 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1613.
possession from immemorial time, as themselves say. So as, the
matter requiring some further debatement, my Lord Privy Seal
hath propounded it in Council, and hath in the meantime let the
French Ambassador know by me that they have a care of that
business, and after due information will seek to satisfy him in it."
[Extract) Correspondence, France.]
1614.
Jan. 2. 84. Sir Thos. Edmondes to the King. " I made it appear unto
Paris. Mons. de Villeroy by many instances, that the interest which the
French pretended to have in the discoveries which we had made
with great peril and charge (concerning the which he had before
spoken to me much out of square) was contrary to the received
custom and practice of all nations ; wherewith he was so well
satisfied, as he said that he would no more dispute that matter with
me." [Extract, Correspondence, France.]
Oct. -[. 85. La Marquise de Guercheville to Secretary Winwood. I
Paris. have learnt the obligation I am under to you, before having the
happiness of knowing you, which makes me doubly thank you, and
entreat a continuation of your courtesy for the reparation of the
great wrong which has been done me, and for the recovery of the
Frenchmen who remain in Virginia. I promise that I shall be
infinitely obliged for what shall be returned in so just a restitution
and even more will ever be your most obliged and affectionate to
serve you. French. Holograph with two seals and silk. Ad-
dressed, " A Monsieur Weinood." 1 p. [Corresp. France.]
Dec. 12. 86. Sir Thos. Edmondes to Sec. Sir Kalph Winwood. Account
Paris. of his conference with Mons. de Villeroy and audience of the King
and Queen of France, in reference to sundry complaints of his
Majesty's subjects against the French. " Whereunto the Queen
made me no other answer than that the complaints were so great
which she received, of the spoils which were committed upon the
French by his Majesty's subjects, as she was forced to make an
extraordinary instance for the redress of the same." (This has
reference most probably to the above complaints of Mad. de Guer-
cheville against Captain ArgolL) See Admiral de Monlmorency's
letter to King James I. in the first volume of this Calendar, p. 15 ;
see also No. 88. [Extract, Correspondence, France.]
Dec. 30. 87. Sir Thos. Edmondes to Sec. Sir Ralph Winwood. Sends
Paris. herewith copy of the Memorial which he has exhibited to Mons. de
Villeroy, of as many, both general and particular, complaints as he
could call to remembrance.
87. I. Memorial of complaints concerning the subjects of the
King of Great Britain, which his Majesty's Ambassador
presents to their Majesties [of France] and the Lords of
the Council, in order that it may please them to give-
orders to have said complaints redressed and prevented
in future. A document in French of 21 pages, some of
the complaints dating back 25 years. They include the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 53
1614.
following : In the year 1603 Sir Ferdinando Gorges
Governor of Plymouth, and some others, equipped and, put
to sea a ship named the Richard, under the command of one
named Captain Chaloner, to traffic and obtain a footing
(prendre pied) upon the coast of Virginia. This ship was
taken at sea with all her merchandize and provisions, to
the value of 14 or 15,000 livres, by a ship belonging to two
merchants of St. Malo, Louis, and Servant Graves (the
Captain being Alphonse Camache), and taken to
Bordeaux. One named Tucker prosecuted Camache
before the Parliament of Bordeaux, but after endeavouring
for two years to obtain justice, an arrest (decree) was
passed, 20 Feb. 1609, dismissing his suit for not having
put in security, though he did so a little while after
(pen, apres) it was demanded of him. 21 pp. French.
[Correspondence, France.] This is at variance with
Chalmer and with Burkes History of Virginia, I.,
85-92, who say this ship was commanded by Henry
Challoner, and was taken by a Spanish fleet and
carried into Spain. See also Holmes' Antericaii, Annals
(2nd edition), /., 125.
1614. 88. Answer to the Complaints presented to the King by the
Sieur de Buisseaux, French Ambassador, at the Court of his
Majesty. To the first complaint concerning Newfoundland, sets
forth the title of England to the fishery there, which is carried on
every year with at least 200 vessels and more than 6,000 persons
in the English colony, who have always treated the French well,
and protected them in their fishing, and allowed them to leave
their vessels until they return to fish the next year. That the
French do not inhabit any part of Newfoundland, but are much
farther away in a place called Canada, which they call New France,
therefore the accusation against the English is most unjust, and far
from the truth, seeing they have never been near New France
neither hindered nor disturbed the French fisheries, nor done them
any injury. To the fourth complaint concerning Virginia, Captain
Argoll acknowledges that he took the French ship in question
within the limits of our colony because she tried by force to intrude
there against the privileges granted to said [Virginia] Company,
?inijj ivt by virtue of his commission under the seal of said Company,
derived from the special power granted by his Majesty to said
colony under the Great Seal, but that nevertheless said ship had
been restored at the request of the French Ambassador. Never-
theless his Majesty wishing the Ambassador to understand his
desire to give every possible satisfaction has ordered said Captain
Argoll to give an account of his reasons for this arrest whenever
the Ambassador shall desire, and that Turner, his Lieutenant, shall
do likewise as soon as he is able to return. To the eighth com-
plaint, concerning the Marquise de Guercheville, she has no reason
to complain, nor to expect any reparation, seeing that bcr ship
forcibly entered the territory of the said colony to settle and traffic
without their permission to the prejudice of treaties, and good
4 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1614.
intelligence between our Kings. See ante, Nos. 85, 86. Extracts,
French. Endorsed, " For the French Am[bassador], Mr. Winwood
1614, Answer to the French Complaints." [Corresp., France.]
1617.
March 31. 89. Sec. Sir Raphe Winwood to Sir Dudley Carleton. Sir
St. Bartholo- Thomas Dale having for many years together resided in Virginia
raews< as you know, about the service of this kingdom, is now returning
into those Provinces to his charge ; from whence, altho' he hath
been longer absent than he had the license of the States for his
Warrant, yet, being a principal man in an employment of such
consequence as that was, I assure myself you will labour so
effectually for him there that he shall be no way prejudiced
thereby. If in any other occasions of his he shall stand in need
of your Lordship's favour, I pray you afford it him with much
readiness, and give him at all times such countenance and good
respect as you shall think fit for a man of his quality and merit ;
whereby you shall not only engage a well deserving gentleman to
your service, but purchase the thanks of many others in this State,
who hold themselves much interested in his future well doing and
advancement. This license to go to Virginia was procured by
myself, at my being in Holland [see ante, No. 51] upon a letter
from the late Prince Henry. [Correspondence, Holland.]
Oct. 18. 90. Sir Thomas Dale to Sir Dudley Carleton. His absence out
of those parts (the United Provinces) has made him destitute of
acquaintance and friends. It is some six years since it pleased
the then Lord Treasurer (Salisbury) to embark him lor the plan-
tation in Virginia, who used both his power and Prince Henry's
for Dale's leave of the States for six years, which was granted,
but his entertainment to be detained till his return. At his de-
parture he married a wife, not expecting his journey to have been
so long, and since his coming home has " borrowed six months after
my travels for her sake," who hath continued sickly, and now he
is afraid to lose her, which is the reason of his so long stay here (in
England) after his arrival, " which may pass for current with gocd
and honest husbands, though not with my Lords the States in
matter of service." Makes bold to send this letter by the bearer,
the writer's brother, and to entreat Carleton's favor and assistance
with the States for excuse of his long absence. Is given to under-
stand that his Lieutenant, " who is not the honestest there," doth
make means for his Company underhand, alleging that Dale will
come no more. His Company much in debt, which his Lieutenant
has rather augmented, and gives out that solicitors have leave of
the States to arrest Dale at his arrival, " which is strange to me."
Entreats him in the interim of the writer's coming (he hopes in
20 days) to make the States acquainted with his case. The King
has promised to write concerning his business, to procure his pay.
Requests his advice herein, and to take his business into his
favorable protection. Indorsed by Carleton, " The answer to be
sent to his house at Woollage (Woolwich) or at Sir. Thps. Smith's
house." 3 pp. [Correspondence, Holland.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
55
1617.
Nov. 6.
Nov. 11.
Theobalds.
1618.
Feb. 4.
The Hague.
Feb. 12.
The Hague.
91. Sir Thomas Dale to [Sir Dudley Carleton]. Death of
Mr. Secretary [Sir Ralph Winwood]. Has, since his death, spoken
with his Majesty concerning his own business in those parts (the
United Provinces) ; who hath given order to Mr. Secretary Lake
to commend Dale's business to Carleton, but as yet Dale has not
his dispatch. Now if it shall please you to give me any advice for
any means else from hence, I know my friends are such as I shall
procure it to second your Lordship in my behalf. I must confess
my acquaintance is but small with your Lordship, and my deserts
less, yet if it shall please your Lordship to favour me and my
cause, which is just and honest, you shall not only bind a poor
gentleman unto you, but noble friends of mine here will give your
Lordship thanks. [Correspondence, Holland.]
92. King James to Sir Dudley Carleton, Our Ambassador with
the States General of the United Provinces. Sir Thomas Dale,
sometime servant to the Pince Henry, Our son deceased, having a
Company in the Low Countries, was by him commanded to attend
the Plantation of Virginia ; and that he might be at liberty so to
do, at the request of Our said son, the States General gave him
leave to be absent, aud that notwithstanding his absence he should
enjoy fully his pay ; and thereof, as he informeth Us, there is an
" apostell " extant. Having now left that service he returneth to his-
charge ; and because he is a gentleman of good merit, both in that
service of Virginia while he attended it, and before in the service
of the United Provinces, We have thought it reasonable to call
upon the States for the performance of that promise, which in his
favor they made to Our said son, and do therefore require you to
deal therein effectually, both with the Prince Maurice and with
the States General, and to procure for his satisfaction the
arrearages of the time past, and continuance in the said pay and
favor with them, as he was before his going to Virginia Wherein
We hope the better of success, because there is so good reason for
the ground of Our request, as is a promise made to a person of
such quality as was the said Prince. [Correspondence, Holland.]
93. Sir Dudley Carleton to Secretary [Sir Thomas Lake ?]. I
had order lately by express letters from his Majesty to assist Sir
Thomas Dale in procuring his allowance for his entertainment
during the whole time of his absence in Virginia, as a promise
made by the States at the granting of his leave which was obtained
by Prince Henry of happy memory ; but herein it appears by their
Registers the condition was otherwise, the words being these :
" bien entendu que durant son absence le cours et payement de
son traitement cessera ;" yet, in contemplation of his Majesty's re-
commendation, and, of Sir Thomas Dale's good service in Virginia
(wherein there is common interest), the States have consented to
the payment of his entertainment for the full time of his seven
years' absence. [Extract, Correspondence, Holland.]
94. Sir Dudley Carleton to Lord Southampton. Sir Thomas
Dale, by whom Carleton received his Lordship's letters, hath found
56
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1618,
better success and quicker expedition in his business than is
ordinary with his Masters in affairs of that nature, especially at
this time of division and distraction, when they can agree in
nothing but in being close handed ; and though good and due
regard was had herein of his particular merit, yet he can assure
his Lordship he was not a little assisted by those recommendations
wherewith he came accompanied. Draft in Carleton's hand, who
has indorsed it, " To my L d Southampton by Sir Thos. Dale, to
the like effect to my L d Haye and my La. Savile. [Correspondence,
Holland.]
March 3. 95. Sir Dudley Carleton to Secretary [Sir Thos. Lake ?]. I
The Hague, advertised your Honor by a letter of the 4th Feb., how the States
upon his Majesty's recommendation had dealt with Sir Thos. Dale
in giving him his full entertainment for the whole time of his
seven year's absence in Virginia, amounting to 1,000?. sterling;
whereof I do not know whether he made due acknowledgment to
his Majesty. So it is, that here being come news that he hath
left the States' service and is gone with charge towards the East
Indies, sans dire adieu, it hath a very ill sound here, and there is
some danger of cashiering his Company, which for consideration
of money he hath transported over to his Lieutenant. The
liberality which was used towards him being very extraordinary,
and his departure so sudden, even the very day of the receipt of
his money, deserves some civil excuse, such a one as your Honor
can best devise, and I shall gladly receive from you ; his Majesty's
name being interested both in his good treatment by the States,
and likewise in his ill manner of leaving their service, it being
given out that he is employed into the East Indies by his Majesty's
commandment. [Extract, Correspondence, Holland.']
June 12. 96. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Letter read
from Henry Bacon [to the Governor], lately returned from Sir
Walter Raleigh's voyage, stating that Don Diego de Molina, who
was prisoner in Virginia, incites the King of Spain to send forces
to suppress Virginia, by the hopes of a silver mine there, from
which he shows a piece to justify the truth. [Court Min. Bk.,
Vol. 4, p.177.]
June 13. 97. Certificate by Sir Richard Wigmore and other justices of
Middlesex. That Ambrose Smithe, convicted of a felony on the
goods of the Earl of Arundel and reprieved, is of able body to be
employed in any service in Virginia, or in the East Indies. [Dom.,
Jas.L, Vol. 97, #o. 106.]
July 21. 98. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Suit of Henry
Bacon for employment, who had been in a voyage with Sir Walter
Raleigh and gave advertisement of some things concerning Virginia.
[Court Min. Bk., Vol. 4, p. 189.]
Nov. 28.
London,
99. John Pory to Sir Dudley Carleton. No longer again than
yesterday the Council of Virginia (my Lord of Southampton, my
Lord Rich, my Lord Sheffield, and my Lord Paget being present)
did at the instance of Sir George Yeardley, the new elected Governor,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
57
1619.
Feb. 3.
1618.
choose me for their Secretary in Virginia. This Sir George Yeardley
hath married my cousin German, and infinitely desires my company.
So having done this office for me without my seeking, I entreated
him he would also demand what allowance they would give me
for my setting forth and what maintenance at my coming thither.
At this demand he finds them as dry as Pumystones, which is the
cause that I mean not to adventure my carcase in so dangerous a
business for nothing. The Governor of himself hath proffered to
make my means worth 200?. a year at least which I purpose to
accept so he will allow me 501. to set me forth, and to-morrow
night I am to receive my last answer. But (so my sufficiency
were answerable) how happy should I be to be called into your
Lordship's domestical service, in case I do not embrace this. [Dom.
Jas. /., Vol. 103, No. 111.]
100. Fra. Lord Russell to Sir Clement Edmondes. Prays the
aid of his favour in reference to one Harry Reade now prisoner in
Newgate for a robbery on the highway. Has proposed to Sir
George Calvert the scope of his intentions which were well allowed
of by the Lord Chancellor, to get a certificate from the Lord Mayor
and the Recorder of the offences Reade stood charged with and
then to beg a letter from the Privy Council for sending Reade to
Virginia. Sir George answered that there was an Order from the
Board for that purpose for some offences of that kind and that
robbery by the highway was a thing the Lords would be sparing
in to grant though not excepted in the order which makes Lord
Russell importune Sir Clement's favour therein. 1 p. [Dom.
Jas. /., Vol. 105, No. 75.]
101. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Leave to the
Virginia Company to sell by the candle 1,000 weight of tobacco in
rolls, lately brought from the Somers Islands. [Court Min. Bk.,
Vol. 4, p. 304.]
102. Sir Thomas Dale to Sir Thomas Smythe, Governor, and
the Committee of the East India Company. A long letter of
fourteen pages, describing his narrow escape from drowning ;
" a cruel bloody fight " with the Dutch, which lasted from eleven
till three, and in which 3,000 great shot were fired ; and the Com-
pany's affairs. Also, that he should be glad to hear how Virginia
prospers, and his own business goes forward there. [East Indies,
Original Correspondence, Vol. 6, No. 767.]
103. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Virginia
wheat, called maize, much commended for an excellent strong meat,
and hearty for men at sea, and more wholesome than beef ; the
Virginia Company to be desired to procure some for trial by the
next shipping. [Court Min. Bk., Vol. 4, p. 306.]
March 12. 104. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Alderman
Johnson desiring to borrow four mynions for the use of the
Virginia Company, acknowledged they owe for four demi-culverins
Feb. 26.
March 1.
Jacatra.
March 5.
58
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1619.
July 17.
Madrid.
Aug. 6.
Sept. 18.
Madrid.
Dec. 30.
Westminster.
1620
Jan. 29.
The Hague.
Jan. 31.
which have been long due. If they may have these, both Mr.
Governor (Sir Thos. Smythe) and himself will use the best means
to procure satisfaction for the old from the Virginia Comp., and
undertake for the satisfying of these latter four. Ordered that
Mr. Salmon deliver them four mynions, if this Company have any
to spare. [Court Min. Bk., Vol. 4, p. 312.]
105. Sir Fras. Cottington to [Sec. Sir Robt. Naunton]. The
Spanish Secretary in England has advertised hither that one Capt.
North is arming certain ships to go into the West Indies of which
he says he hath complained without any remedy ; his despatches
are gone down to the King to Lisbon and is sure he shall hear of
it from thence, in the meantime has seen copy of his despatch to
the Conde de Gondomar. See 1st Vol. of this Calendar, p. 21.
[Extract, Gorresp., Spain.]
106. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Captain Tucker
and Captain Argoll, who have been employed to the Somers Islands
and Virginia, were both recommended to be considered of [for
employment by this Company] when convenient time shall be.
[Court Min. Bk., Vol. 4, p. 392.]
107. Sir Fras. Cottington to [Sec. Naunton]. Capt. North's design
being only as your honour tells me, I make no doubt but that I
shall be able to give them satisfaction here, and have done it
already to some of these great Ministers with whom I have been
since the receipt of your letter. [Extract, Corresp., Spain.]
108. Proclamation to restrain the planting of tobacco in England
and Wales. " It is not unknown what dislike we have ever had of
the use of tobacco, as tending to a general and new corruption
both of men's bodies and manners ; nevertheless it is of the two
more tolerable that the same should be imported amongst many
other vanities and superfluities which come from beyond seas than
permitted to be planted here within this realm, to abuse and mis-
employ the soil of this fruitful kingdom." Reasons for making
the prohibition general ; English tobacco is more crude, poisonous,
and dangerous for the bodies and healths of our subjects than what
comes from hotter climates ; the colonies of Virginia and the
Somers Islands are proper and natural climates for that plant, and
receive much comfort by the importation of it into this kingdom,
and it tends to the increase of our Customs. Printed. 2 pp.
[Proclamations, Jos. I., No. 74.]
109. Sir Dudley Carleton to John Chamberlain. Prays him to
show Sir Dudley Digges the writer's Virginia Papers, and then
return them to Carleton, letting him know when there is a passage
thither, for he has compassion of poor Porie being hunger-starved
for news. [Extract, Correspondence, Holland.]
110. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Thomas Jones,
a servant of Lord Warwick, arrested by the Company for turning
away their men, being now employed to go to Virginia with cattle
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
59
1620.
May 13.
Whitehall.
1621.
May 30.
June 9.
Gravenhage.
[Hague.]
June 10.
Hague.
by his Lordship, who desires his release, order is given to set him
at liberty, Lord Warwick engaging to answer for what shall be
objected against him. [Court Minute Bk., Vol. 4, p. 506.]
111. Sec. Sir Robt. Naunton to Sir Dudley Carleton. Capt.
Roger North, one of my Lord North's brothers, that was out with
Sir Walter Raghley (sic) having derived a Commission from a
Patent which his Majesty had granted for the erecting of a Com-
pany incorporated to make a plantation by the river of Amazons
in America, and being restrained by his Majesty's command upon
a complaint of the Count Gondomar, pretending his Master to have
as good right to that tract as he hath to Madrid or Toledo, is
suddenly stole away and gone with some four or five sail, which
hath much offended his Majesty, and we are all busied to revoke
him and stay all supplies that were to follow him. It is his
Majesty's command that if he shall give out to any of the Mer-
chants or Seamen of that State that he is gone with his Majesty's
leave or Commission, to resolve them there is no such matter, but
that his Majesty doth utterly disavow this course, and will chastise
his contempt when he shall be taken. Orders to publish a
proclamation to declare him rebel, and charge all his Majesty's
subjects who shall meet him to bring him home by strong hand.
The Proclamation, which is dated two days after this letter, is
abstracted in the first volume of this Calendar, p. 23. [Corresp.,
Holland.]
112. " Translation of the States Placart touching the West
Indies" [so endorsed by Carleton]. The States General having
settled a Company of Negotiation and Traffic for the West Indies,
Africa, and other places hereunder described, by Letters Patent, it
is forbidden to any within the term of 24 years after the first July
next ensuing to sell, negotiate, or drive any manner of trade upon
the coasts and countries of Africa from Tropico Cancri unto the
Cape de Bona Esperance, nor upon the countries of America,
beginning at the south end of Terra Nova, through the Straits of
Magelana, Le Mayre, or any other straits and passages thereabouts
as far as the Strait of An Jan, as well upon the North Sea as the
South Sea, nor upon any island either upon the inside or the other,
or those situated between both ; as also upon the Australis and
Southern Countries, &c., under the penalties described, &c. 2 pp.
[Holland Correspondence.]
113. Sir Dudley Carleton to Marquis of Buckingham. The
project of a West India Comp. having been proposed to the States
of Guelderland for their ratification, who have the leading voice
in the Assembly of the States General and were ever less forward
in that business, hath thus far their allowance that they will
concur therein with the rest of the Provinces, but understands
withal they have given their Deputies secret charge not to give
way thereunto in case they find it prejudicial to the truce, which
makes it evident that the project of the Company, though never so
far advanced, will stand or fall according to the proceeding in the
truce, [Extract, Corresp. Holland,]
60 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1621.
July 19. 114. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sec. Sir George Calvert. Here
The Hague, hath been with me of late a certain Walloon, an inhabitant of
Ley den, in the name of divers families, men of all trades and
occupations, who desire to go into Virginia and there to live in the
same condition as others of his Majesty's subjects, but in a Town or
Incorporation by themselves ; which being a matter of some con-
sideration, I required of him his demands in writing, with the
signature of such as were to bear part therein, both which I send
your Honor herewith ; and however the demands are extravagant
in some points, yet, if his Majesty like of their going thither, they
may be made more capable of the nature of the plantation ; to
which purpose they will send one (upon the first word they shall
have from me of his Majesty's pleasure) expressly to treat with
our Company in England. [Extract, Correspondence, Holland.]
Encloses,
114! i. Supplication of certain Walloons and French who are
desirous to go into Virginia, addressed to Lord Am-
bassador Carleton. That his Majesty will permit fifty or
sixty families, as well Walloons as French, all of the
reformed religion, to settle in Virginia, and protect them
and maintain them in their religion. As said families
would consist of nearly 300, they wish to take a quantity
of cattle, as well for husbandry as for their support, and
ask his Majesty to accommodate them with one ship,
supplied with cannon and other arms. That they may
select a spot fit for their settlement from the places not
yet cultivated, erect a town for their security, with
fortifications, and elect a Governor and Magistrates.
That his Majesty furnish them with cannon and ammu-
nition, and grant them, in case of necessity, the right to
make powder, bullets, &c. That his Majesty grant them
a territory of eight English miles all round, i.e., sixteen
miles in diameter, 'to be held from his Majesty, with
reservation of inferior seignorial rights, privilege of
exclusive hunting and fishing, &c. That my Lord Am-
bassador would expedite said privileges in due form as
soon as possible, that they may be ready to embark by
March next, the convenient season. French, signed by
Jesse de Forest. 3 pp. [Corresp., Holland.] Trans-
lation into English is printed in " Documents relating
to the History of New York" Vol. 3, pp. 9, 10.
114. II. Promise of certain Walloons and French to go and inhabit
Virginia. The signatures and calling of each are ap-
pended in the form of a round robin. Colonial Corresp.,
Vol. 1, No. 5 4 a. Abstracted in the first Vol. of this
Calendar, pp. 498, 499.
July 19. 115. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sir Dudley Digges. Here are in
these countries sixty families and upwards, men of all trades and
conditions, Walloons and French, all of the Reformed Religion, who
desire to go into Virginia, and to this purpose have employed one
unto me with their demands and signatures, which I now send into
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
61
1621.
Aug. 11.
St. Martin's
Lane.
Nov. 2.
Nov. 16.
1622.
Feb. 7.
St. Martin's
Lane.
England to Mr. Secretary Calvert, to acquaint his Majesty there-
with ; and if his Majesty like thereof, these men will send one
expressly into England to treat with our Virginia Company, to
which they may surely be of singular use, if some equal conditions
may be found out for their transport thither. [Extract, Corre-
spondence, Holland.]
116. Sec. Sir George Calvert to Sir Dudley Carleton. Has
moved his Majesty concerning the overture made by the Walloons
for planting in Virginia, who was pleased to refer the proposition
unto the Council of Virginia ; and from them he has this answer
which he sends to Carleton, subscribed by the Deputy of the
Company, which, if he thinks fit, be may show to them, and, as
they like the answer, they may resolve to proceed or desist. [Ex-
tract, Correspondence, Holland] Encloses,
116. I. Answer of the Virginia Company to the request of the
Walloons and France to plant in Virginia, 1621, Aug. 11.
[Colonial Corresp., Vol. I., No. 55. Abstracted in the first
Volume of this Calendar, p. 26.]
117. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Mr. Lanman ac-
quainted the Court that there is a sum of money given, to the
value of 70., part by some of the Company's servants deceased in
the Indies, and part out of the wages of some that are living,
towards the erecting of a school in Virginia, and moved to know
their pleasures whether the same shall be paid or not. The Court
showed themselves ready to forward so pious a work, and therefore
ordered that it should be paid and a discharge taken from the
Company under their seal. But withal it was referred to con-
sideration, whether this might not be an apt occasion to call for
four culverins formerly borrowed of them by those of the Virginia
Company, whereof hitherto they have made no restitution. [Court
Minute Bk., Vol. 5, p. 189.]
118. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Mr. Lanman
presented unto the Court a receipt dated 15 Nov. 1621, under the
seal of the Virginia Company of 701. 8s. Qd. of money freely given
by the company of the Royal James for the erecting a school in
Virginia. [Court Minute Bk., Vol. 5, p. 210.]
119. Sec. Sir George Calvert to Sir Dudley Carleton. In the con-
clusion of your last letter, you write unto me that you will treat
with the States concerning the new plantation of the Hollanders in
Virginia, as soon as you can take information of the state of the
business, with which you would have been glad if the Lords of the
Council had been pleased to accompany their commandments. I
do not know what it means, for from myself I do not remember
you had any direction to treat with the States about such a
plantation. Only I do well call to mind that there were certain
Walloons that offered themselves, and to carry with them three-
score families, so as they might have a portion allotted unto them
in that country to build a town upon, with privileges, &c., which
62
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1622.
Feb.?
March 9.
The Hague.
Sept. 7.
The Hague.
,1623.
March 29.
offer you sent unto me, and I acquainting his Majesty with it, he
was pleased to refer it unto the consideration of the Company of
Virginia here, to whom he had formerly given all power by his
Letters Patent, to admit or exclude whom they pleased in that
plantation, and thereupon the company were contented to receive
them upon certain conditions, which I sent unto you to impart, unto
them. Since that time, I have heard nothing of it, nor meddled in
it. If your Lordship have had any further order to treat with the
States about it, I would be very glad to understand it by your
next letter. [Extract, Correspondence, Holland.] Printed in New
York Documents, Vol. 13, p. 10.]
120. Request of the Spanish Ambassador. He acknowledges the
speedy justice done, with thanks to the Bermuda Company for the
goods delivered, being parcel of the lading of the Spanish wreck on
that Island altho' they only consisted of 5 cwt. of perished
tobacco and 30 Ibs. of indigo, whereas the whole lading was 5,000
Indian hides, 1,200 quintals of Brazil wood, 6,000 Ibs. of indigo,
30,000 Ibs. of tobacco, 5,000 Ibs. of sarsaparilla, and gold and silver
to the value of 5,000?., besides 12 pieces of iron ordnance, &c., all
of which his Lordship has been told has been recovered. The Am-
bassador's wish that a man of his own appointment may pass
thither to receive said goods and lade same for England; and
order of the Privy Council of 11 July last to appoint some meet
person themselves to go over and take charge of that business, yet
the Ambassador hath heard nothing since, but finding that two
ships are on their departure thither, is well assured their Lordships
have accordingly appointed said person, and desires to know his
name for the information of the King his Master. 1 p. [Corre-
spond., Spain.]
121. Sir. Dudley Carleton to Sec. Sir George Calvert. As yet I
have no answer to the complaint I made by order from my Lords
of the Council in her Majesty's name, touching the new plantation
of the Hollanders in the north of Virginia, of which I gave thrir
Lordships an account by letters I sent your Honor with my last
despatch, but I find they have the business in hand before the
States of Holland which are now assembled. [Extract, Corre-
spondence, Holland.]
122. Sir Dudley Carleton to Sec. Sir George Calvert. There are
three of Count Mansfeld's eldest Captains dead there [at the Camp
of Skenckschaus, to the east of Nimeguen] in the space of three days,
two of horse, Philler and Ents, both men of account, who died
suddenly in one night, and one of his foot, Sir Thomas Gates, an
ancient honest gentleman of our nation, [Extract, Correspondence,
Holland.]
123. His Majesty's Council for Virginia to Sir Dudley Carleton.
Forasmuch as Richard Norwood who presents this letter hath
approved himself to be a man skilful as well in setting out the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
63
1623.
Dec. 14.
Batavia.
1624.
March 10.
June i-f-
Middleboro'.
June 19.
London.
forms of towns and fortifications as also in framing of sundry
useful and necessary engines, they have therefore thought fit and
the rather for his faithful and able service to the Virginia Com-
pany heretofore, to employ him as an engineer in that Plan-
tation. Nevertheless, knowing the Netherlands to afford store of
ingenious inventions of that kind, they have determined before his
going that he shall spend some few weeks in those parts thereby to
improve that quality of his for the better performance of the
service he hath undertaken. Entreat Carleton to further him
with passports and letters of favour for his more easy passage
and more free access to view such works as may serve for his
instruction. Signed by Earl of Pembroke, Ro. Earl of Warwick,
W. Lord Cavendysshe, Sir E. Sackeville, Sir Will. Paget, Sir Edwin
Sandys, Lord Brooke, and Sir Na. Riche. [Holland Corre-
spondence.]
124. President Brockedon and the Council of Batavia to the East
India Company. John Ferrar by his letter requested our late
President [Richard Fursland] to further a collection for a free school
in Virginia, whereupon to further so religious a work, a voluntary
collection was made, both on shore and aboard the ships, which is
entered in the Purser's accounts, the particulars sent herewith
(missing). [0[riginal] Correspondence], East Indies, Vol. 10,
No. 1,130.]
125. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The Court
was moved for payment of 201. pretended to be given by the Com-
pany of the Coaster towards building a school in Virginia, but
considering they had no warrant and only a letter from Randall
Jesson, the master of that ship, witli catalogue of the names and
proportions of each man's gift, therefore the Court conceived they
could not safely pay it. [Court Book, Vol. 6, p. 452.]
126. P. Courteen to John Harrison. About the sale of Virginia
tobacco, which is at as low a stand as ever was, and like to
come lower, for passengers and mariners will sell at any rate to
get money. Desires him to procure patent upon some of the
company's name, John Powel to have leave to sail and bring
victuals into the plantation of Virginia, which would be to the
company's profit, and not to the distaste or hindrance of any. Begs
it may be sent with all speed, and the cost he will see paid.
With Mem., answered 26 June, that the Virginia company was
moved but could not prevail, in regard they are afraid he should
go to the West Indies, &c. [Corresp., Holland.']
127. John Chamberlain to Sir Dudley Carleton. The Lady
Wiat, daughter (a? I take it) to Sir Samuel Sandes, is returned
from Virginia great with child, and Mas Porie in her company.
[Extract, Domestic, Jas. 1st, Vol. 168, No. 8.J John Porywas sent
to Virginia with three Orders in Council concerning tlie govern-
64 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1624.
ment of Virginia, in the capacity of the King's Commissioner, in
Oct. 1623, and returned in June 1624. In an Order in Council
of 18 July 1624 he is called Thomas Pory. [Col. Ent. Bk., Vol. 79,
p. 277.] Sir Francis Wyatt had the King's license, MI 15 Sept.
1624, to return to England on the decease of his father, but he did
not leave Virginia until May 1626.
June 25. 129. Sir Francis Nethersole to Sir Dudley Carleton. The
Greenwich.; Virginia Company is like to be dissolved, and the King to take the
business into his own hands ; and the East India is so discouraged
with the last outrage [at Amboyna] committed upon their factors,
that they speak of giving over that trade also, which causcth the
Hollanders to be very ill spoken of, even by their friends. [Extract,
Dom. Jos. 1st, Vol. 168, No. 40.]
July A-
Middleboro'
130. Sir Peter Courteen to John Harris. About the sale of
Virginia tobacco. Thanks him for his pains taken in the Virginia
business. Tobacco of Virginia will yield now no price, the markets
are overlaid, and till winter (it) is not consumed. With Mem.,
10 July 1624, stilo antique, " I writt to Sir Peter to remit the
money to me here in safety." [Correspond., Holland.]
July 15. 131. Letters Patent to Henry Viscount Mandeville Lord Presi-
Westminster. dent of the Council, Wm. Lord Paget, Anthony Lord Chichester,
Sir Thos. Edmondes, Sir John Suckling, Sir Geo. Calvert, Sir
Edward Conway, Sir Richard Weston, Sir Julius Caesar, Sir
Humphrey May, Sir Saville Hickes, Sir Thomas Smith, Sir Henry
Mildmay, Sir Thomas Coventry, Sir Robt. Heath, Sir Ferdinando
Gorges, Sir Bobt. Killigrew, Sir Chas. Montague, Sir Philip Carie,
Sir Francis Goston, Sir Thos. Wroth, Sir John Wolstenholme,, Sir
Nath. Rich, Sir Samuel Argoll, Sir Hump. Handford, Matthew
Sutcliff, Dean of Exeter, Francis White, Dean of Carlisle, Thos.
Fanshaw, Aldermen Robt. Johnson, Jas. Campbell, and Raphe
Freeman, Morris Abbott, Nath. Butler, Geo. Wilmore, Wm. Hack-
well, John Mildmay, Philip Germayne, Edward Johnson, Thos.
Gibbes, Sam. Wrote, John Porey, Michael Hawes, Edward Pala-
vacino, Robt. Bateman, Martin Bond, Thos. Styles, Nich. Leate,
Robt. Bell, Abrah. Cartwright, Rich. Edwardes, John Dyke,
Anthony Abdy, Wm. Palmer, Edward Ditchfield, George Mole, and
Richard Morer. Whereas at the suit of divers of his Majesty's
subjects intending to deduce a Colony and make plantation in
Virginia, and other territories in America, the King did, by his
Letters Patent in the fourth year of his reign [10 April 1606],
grant to divers knights, gentlemen, and others, that they should
divide themselves into two Colonies, called the first and second
Colonies ; in which Letters Patent his Majesty declared that he,
his heirs and successors, would from time to time ordain such
further laws for the rule of the same. And did, by several privy
seal letters, give such orders for directing said first Colony, and
afterwards, upon petition of divers adventurers and planters of the
same, did by his Letters Patents in the 17th year [7th year, i.e. t
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 65
1624.
23 May 1609] of his reign incorporate divers noblemen, knights,
gentlemen, and others, by the name of the Treasurer and Company
of Adventurers and Planters of the City of London, for the first
Colony in Virginia, granting them divers powers and liberties;
and afterwards, by Letters Patent in the 9th year of his Majesty's
reign [12 March 1612], did further grant to said Treasurer and
Company divers other Islands within the limits in the said Letters
Patent expressed, with other powers. And whereas his Majesty,
having still a careful eye to the furthering of said plantations, and
finding the courses taken for the settling thereof had not taken
that good effect which his Majesty intended, did, by Commission
lately granted to certain persons of quality and trust, cause the
state of said country of Virginia to be examined, and how the great
sums of money collected for the good thereof had been expended.
And whereas his Majesty's Commissioners, after much labour,
certified that the people sent to said country were most of them, by
God's visitation, sickness, famine, and massacres by the native
savages, dead, and those living, in miserable and lamentable ne-
cessity and want ; but the country appeared to be fruitful and
healthful, and that, if industry were used, it would produce many
staple and good commodities, tho' as yet the sixteen years' govern-
ment now past had yielded few or none. And this neglect, they
conceived, must fall on the Governors and Company here, and
that said plantations were of great importance and would, as they
hoped, remain a lasting monument of his Majesty's happy govern-
ment if the same were prosecuted to those ends for which they
were first undertaken ; and his Majesty's instructions for the
direction of affairs there by thirteen Councillors in Virginia and as
many here, all nominated by his Majesty, had been pursued and
not altered into so popular a course ; and much better effects had
been produced and much contention and confusion avoided. His
Majesty, in consideration of the premises, did, by advice of his
Privy Council, resolve, by altering the Charters of said Company,
to settle such a course as might best secure the safety of his people
there, and cause said plantation to flourish, and yet with preser-
vation of the interest of every planter or adventurer, so far forth
as they shall not prejudice the public plantations. But because
said Treasurer and Company did not submit their Charters to be
reformed, his Majesty's proceedings therein were stayed, until upon
a Quo Warranto the said Charters are avoided, his Majesty being
resolved to proceed in the course he ever intended by a new
Charter. But because the points thereof may be many, and require
deliberation, and yet the least delay may prove perilous to said
plantiition, his Majesty, reposing assured confidence in the circum-
spection of those above named, appoints them his Commissioners,
with power to any six, whereof the Lord President, Lord Chichester,
Sir Thomas Edmondes, Sir John Suckling, Sir George Calvert, Sir
Edward Conway, Sir Richard Weston, or Sir Julius Caesar, to
be one, to take into consideration the state of said Colon}' and
Plantation, as well for the safety of the people, strength of the
place, and government there, as for the managing of the business
here in England, to settle the same by such orders, as they shall
72843. E
66 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1624.
find most fit, and gives them power to execute authorities, pri-
vileges, &c., mentioned in said Letters Patent, and to take into
their hands goods and money in the hands of any persons for the
public use of said Colony, or of said pretended Governor and Com-
pany ; also to give orders for sending of supplies to said Colony,
out of proceeds of said goods and money, and to confer with the
adventurers or planters for the advancement of said Plantation,
and appoint Committees for the preparation of affairs ; also to set
down such matters as they think most necessary for settling the
Government of said Colony, and concerning the planters, adven-
turers, and inhabitants thereof, and of the trade, and all other
things whatsoever, requisite for the maintenance, increase, and con-
tinuance of said Colony, necessary to be inserted in the new
Charter, declaring that in case of any question which requires aid
from his Majesty, he and his Privy Council will give such direc-
tions as shall be most necessary. Also that if any be hereafter
willing to raise any joint stock to be sent to said Colony, every
such adventurer to have a free voice in the ordering and disposing
of the same. Power also given to take into their custody the seals
of the Treasurer, Company, and Council of Virginia, and to keep
and peruse all Charters, Patents. Grants, and Instructions, here-
tofore given to said Treasurer and Company and others, concerning
said Colony and all books, orders, letters, and other writings in
whose hands soever the same be ; requiring all persons to deliver
up some to said Commissioners for their better information " in
" this work of so deep and great information ; willing and re-
" quiring you to be diligent and attendant at the execution of the
" same." This Commission to continue in force until his Majesty,
by writing under his Signet or Privy Seal, signify his pleasure to
the contrary. [Patent Roll, 22 Jac. /., Part /., No. 4.]
July 30. 132. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The Court
was moved to be mindful at the coming home of ships to get
something out of men's wages by way of a voluntary charity
toward the erecting a school in Virginia. But they desired that
the money so gathered may be deposited with the Company until
that Plantation be so settled as there may be use of a school there.
In the meantime it was thought fit that as they gather of those
that will give when they return, so a course may be taken that
those that die abroad in the Company's service may be also moved
to the like contribution. [Court Book, Vol. VIL, p. 48.]
Aug. 3. 133. Court Minutes of the East India Company. The motion
put forward at a former Court (see preceding abstract} for collecting
from seafaring men in the Company's service voluntary contri-
butions towards a school to be erected in Virginia was reconsidered,
and it was thought that if such a collection were made towards a
hospital to be erected for the aged and impotent in the Company's
service it would be both a benefit and a grace to the Company,
and if anything can be collected from men that die abroad, the
same to be reserved for Virginia. [Court Book, Vol. VII., JP. 50.1
AMERICA ANt> WEST INDIES. 6?
1624
Aug. 26. 134. The King's Commission to Sir Francis Wyatt and others,
to be Governor and Council of Virginia. The substance of his
Majesty's Letters Patent of the 4th (10 April 1606), 7th (23 May
1609), and 9th (12 March 1612) years are recited ; the examination
of the State of Virginia by Commissioners, who certified that most
of the people, by sickness, famine, and massacres by the savages,
were dead, though the country appeared fruitful and healthful,
so that the neglect the Commissioners conceived must fall on
the Governors and Company here. His Majesty's resolve to alter
the Charters of the Company as to the point of government, and
that because the Treasurer and Company did not submit their
Charters to be reformed, said Charters were upon a Quo Warranto
avoided ; and also the appointment, by Commission dated July 15,
1624, of Henry Viscount Mandeville, Lord President of the Council,
and others, for managing the affairs of said Colony in England.
And said Commissioners having advised to appoint persons residing
in Virginia for the ordering of affairs there, his Majesty, by these
presents, nominates Sir Francis Wyatt Governor, and Francis West,
Sir George Yeardley, George Sandys, Roger Smyth, Raph Hamor,
John Martin, John Harvey, Samuel Matthewes, Abraham Percey,
Isaac Madison, and William Clayborne, Council for said Colony,
with authority to govern and punish, according to instructions
heretofore given, or that shall hereafter be given by his Majesty
or his Commissioners. 3 membs. [Patent Roll, 22 Jac. /., Pt. 17,
No. 2.]
Oct. 22. 135. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Sir John
Wolstenholme acquainted the Court that, by an Order of the Council
of Virginia, he was authorized to demand payment of the moneys
gathered out of the benevolence of this Company's servants returned
out of the Indies towards the erecting of a school in Virginia.
The Court ordered that, upon a good and sufficient discharge in Jaw
being given, the money shall be forthwith paid. [Court Boole,
Vol. VII., 170.]
Dec. 13. 136. Court Minutes of the East India Company. Mr. Copland,
a minister returned out of the Indies, doth labour to draw a con-
tribution from thence for the erecting a school in Virginia, which
contribution the Company thinks will be more proper to be for the
relief of their own, or for building a hospital for such as are hurt
or maimed in their service. Notwithstanding if any have a mind
to contribute to such a school they will not hinder it. Ordered
that it be inserted in the Commissions to the Commanders by sea,
and written to the President in the Indies what the Company
intends concerning such a contribution, and to what end. [Court
Book, VII., p. 259.]
Dec. 26. 137. Captain Christopher Levett to Sir John Coke. Asks em-
Sherborne. ployment in anything he is capable of to bring glory to God, His
name, and some good to this Church and Commonwealth. Friends
advised him to go to New England. Beseeches he will help him
forward with that or some other employment Could conduct a,
fi 2
68
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1624.
1625.
March 15.
1626.
Au<r. 21.
Nov. 29.
Dartmouth.
1627.
Sept. 10.
bherborne.
Nov. 17.
Sherborne.
ship from any place in the world that is yet discovered into
England. Protests it is even a death to him to live idle. [Coke
MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., Xllth Repwt, App. /., p. 178.]
138. Geo. Lord Baltimore to Sir John Coke, Commissioner for
the Navy. Intends shortly, God willing, a journey for New-
foundland, to visit a plantation he began there some few years
since. Hired the Jonathan, now in the river, for transportation
of himself and such plants as he carries with him. Understands
she is stayed for the King, to whom it is good reason all his
occasions should give place, but is by that means utterly dis-
appointed, and Sir John should do him a favour to clear her and
her mariners, and also the Peter Bonadventure, for which he con-
tracted for carrying over cattle. Whatever favour Sir John shows
therein my Lord Duke will not be displeased with it. [Coke MSS.,
Hist. MSS. Commis., XII. Report, App. L, p. 187.]
139. Note of papers to be signed by the King. Amongst them
is a warrant to Sir Francis Wyatt, late Governor in Virginia, for
liberty to import 10,000 weight of tobacco, custom free. [Extract,
Dom. Chas. /., Vol. 34, No. 15.]
140. Capt. Chris. Levett to Sec. Sir John Coke. Tt hath pleased
God to deny a blessing to the labours of us all that hath been
employed in his Majesty's service at sea. Sees almost all men
seek more their own ends than God's glory or their Sovereign's
honour. There is no man knows better than himself what benefit
would accrue unto this kingdom by New England if it were well
planted and fortified, which makes him so desirous to tread out a
path that all men may follow. Is now in a fair way to it, only
wants a little help, the particulars he has mentioned in a petition
to his Majesty. Flies unto his Honor as his only mediator. If
his suit shall prove unseasonable, beseeches he will put him into a
good ship. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., XII. Report, App. I.,
p. 287.]
141. Capt. Chris. Levett to Sec. Sir John Coke. Sends a letter
from a gent., a servant of Levett's in New England. In his opinion
it were great pity his Majesty should lose such a country, but a
thousand times more pity that his enemy should enjoy it. If he
should, can assure him he would be as well fitted for building of
ships as any Prince in the world, and not the worst provided for
victualling of his ships. Knows as well how to make that country
good against an enemy as any subject hath at no charge at all in
comparison. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., XII. Report, App. I.,
p. 321.]
142.
tection
Capt. Chris,
to fishing
in
Levett to Sec. Sir John Coke. As to pro-
New England. Asks for a Commission to
take four of those ships now in the King's service, and to man
them with 300 men. [Coke MSS., Hint. MSS. Commis., XII. Re-
port, Ap$> t /., p. 331.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
69
1627?
1628.
Jan. 16.
March 5.
May 13.
Southampton.
May 27.
Southampton.
143. A relation of the burthen of part of a fleet of about eighty
ships which in May last went out of the harbour of St. Malo for
Newfoundland, the most part of which are of good burthen and
great force, viz., from 380 to 140 tons, carrying 20 pieces of
ordnance or more, and few less than ten or twelve pieces, and of
as great a force as any ships trading that way, most of which had
not been sent this year fishing had they not been fearful that the
King would have arrested them for his service against Rochelle.
Other ships at St. Malo, their trade to Spain and most of the chief
towns in France. Comvay Papers, 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 2.]
144. Geo. Lord Baltimore to Sec. Sir John Coke. Mr. Lcvett
seeks a commission for New England. The Lords of the Council
desiring to know whether this will encroach on Lord Baltimore's
plantation, are informed that it does not concern him at all, it is
far remote from Newfoundland, which is a nearer part of America
by some hundreds of leagues. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis.,
XII. Repaid, App. 1., p. 337.]
145. Sir Francis Coke to Sec. Sir John Coke. Understands he
has been already moved in the behalf of Sir John Zouch to be
Governor of Virginia. He is a gentleman well deserving a right
good place, and hath bestowed much time and study in things
belonging to military discipline, and hath had some practise,
having had a company in the Low Countries. Extract. [Coke
MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., XII. Report, App. /., p. 340.]
146. John Ellzey to Edward Nicholas. The Fortune has taken
an Angola man with many negroes, which the Captain bartered in
Virginia for tobacco, which has come home in a ship called the
Plantation. Extract. [Dom. Chas. I., Vol. 103, No. 85.]
147. John Ellzey to Edward Nicholas. Further information
respecting the imported tobacco, referred to in previous abstract,
the produce of certain negroes sold in Virginia. [Dom. CJias. I.,
Vol. 105, No. 35.]
148. " The state of the business of Canada, or New France."
Patent granted by the French King in 1603 to Mons.de Monts
and his partners, their voyages, discoveries, plantations, and trade.
Letters of marque obtained by Captain Kerck, who sailed from
England in March and arrived in the Gulf of Canada in May 1627,
when he took several ships, and ruined all their plantations, then
went up the river and possessed himself of Tadousac and Quebec,
but resolved not to assault the fort, and set up the King of
England's arms a little below Tadousac, having taken away the-
French arms. Remained till July following, when the French
fleet arrived, and after seven or eight hours fight yielded. He
took in all fourteen ships and 900 prisoners, the greater part he
sent into their own country, brought home six of the best ships and
sunk the rest, having no men to man them, Now to bring their
70 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1628,
work to perfection there must be a strong fleet sent out early next
year to take the Fort of Quebec before it be relieved, and so being
masters at sea this next summer, the whole river is conquered, the
trade with the savages assured, and all the profits of fishing at our
command. The charge will amount to 20,0002. at least, and the
consequences being of great weight deserve the serious consideration
of the State. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commission, Report XII. t
App /., pp. 374-376.]
Aug. 9. 149. Petition of Edward Lord Newburgh and his partners to
the King. An accommodation propounded by the Lord Keeper
and Lord Chancellor of Scotland about Canada is yielded unto by
petitioner. Petitioner and partners pretend not to encroach upon
Sir Wm. Alexander's patent of New Scotland, yet are willing to
part with the greatest part of the territory within their own
discovery, and to limitation of their trade for a term of years, and
in their patent to yield a proportionable acknowledgment of
interest to Sir Wm. Alexander. The time is pressing for sending
out their fleet to reduce those countries which petitioners are ready
to undertake with the charge of 30,000?. ; a week's delay may
hazard the voyage. Pray that an absolute and binding deter-
mination of this business be referred to persons to be selected.
Annexed,
149. I. Propositions of accommodation for the settling of the trade
and plantation in Canada or New France. After specify-
ing the terms of accommodation, it is propounded to
divide into sixteen parts what remains from Sir Wm.
Alexander's plantation of Acadia and the country and
coasts within the gulf of Canada, on both sides of the
river, within ten leagues of Tadousac, more than half of
that planted by the French, Sir W. Alexander to have
two parts, the Earl of Newburgh two parts, and the rest
to be shared amongst the merchants, pilots, and masters
that have thus far advanced the works. [Coke MSS.,
Hist. MSS. Commissn., Report XII., App. /., pp. 376,
377.]
Aug. 9. 150. Attorney General Heath to Secretary Lord Dorchester.
Waiting yesterday on his Majesty he left for the Secretary the
draft of a letter to the Governor of Virginia, Sir John Harvey,
which he prays may be sent. {Extract, Dom. Chas. L, Vol. 148,
No. 33.] Probably the King's letter of 10 Aug. 1629, dated from
Oatlands, copy of which Governor Harvey sent to Lord Dorchester
from Virginia inclosed in his letter of 29 May 1630. See Col
Papers, Vol. V., No. 93.
1629.
Oct. 30. 151. Grant to Sir Robert Heath, Attorney-General o* a terri-
Westminiter. tory in America betwixt 31 and 36 degrees of North Latitude, not
inhabited by the subjects of any Christian King, but partly
inhabited by barbarous men who have not any knowledge of the
Divine Deity. Sir Robert Heath, being about to lead thither a
large and plentiful colony of men professing the true religion, and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 71
1629.
applying themselves to the culture of said lands and to mer-
chandising, the King grants to said Sir Robert all that river of
St. Matthew on the south side, and of Passamagno (the Great Pass)
on the north side, with all lands between the same to the ocean,
east and west, together with the Islands of Veajus and Bahamas,
and all other islands lying southerly or near upon said continent,
with all ports, creeks, rivers, lakes, fisheries, minerals, precious
stones, &c. ; and furthermore, the patronage of all churches there
to be built, with as ample privileges as any Bishop of Durham
ever had within his See, to said Sir Robert, his heirs and assigns,
as absolute Lords and Proprietors, with the intention that said
Sir Robert should plant the same according to certain instructions
signed by his Majesty of the date of these presents and remaining
with his Majesty's Principal Secretary. To hold the same in
capite by military service, and to render thence yearly one circlet
of gold of the weight of 20 oz., with this inscription engraved :
Deus coronet opus suum, whenever his Majesty or his heirs shall
visit that region, and also a fifth part of gold and silver ore, and
such proportion of profits and commodities as are expressed in said
instructions. And further, his Majesty erects and incorporates said
territories into a province to be called for all time Carolana and the
Carolanean Islands, with power to make laws by consent of the
free tenants or the major part of them, and enforce them by fine,
imprisonment, loss of member or life ; with power of pardon and
all things belonging to Courts of Justice, provided said laws be not
repugnated to the laws of England. Also, to make laws in cases
of emergency without the consent of the freeholders, provided they
do not abridge the right or property of any, or be received else-
where than within said Province and Islands ; with power also to
transport himself and others thither, make settlements, and build
forts, &c., any statute to the contrary notwithstanding. All his
Majesty's subjects carried thither, and their children, shall be
reputed his subjects, as if born in England, with equal rights and
privileges, with power also to transplant thither all manner of
goods and arms, paying only the usual customs, provided licence be
first obtained in writing from the Chief Treasurer, or from six or
more of the Privy Council. Also with power to wage war against
the barbarians, pirates, or other enemies, and subdue tumults and
rebellions, to confer honours and titles (provided they be not such
as are used in England) ; incorporate borough and cities with fitting
immunities and privileges ; import merchandize into any port of
England (and export again within one year), paying only such
customs and dues as other subjects of his Majesty pay ; to con-
stitute ports, saving only to his Majesty's subjects the right of
fishing and of drying fish as hitherto. All things in this grant to
be interpreted in the most favourable manner to the grantees,
provided it be not to the prejudice of the Christian Religion or of
allegiance to his Majesty, his heirs and successors; and the grantees
undertake to act according to said royal instructions. Provided
always, that if any of the premises or any part of them are already
granted to any person by his Majesty, or his father, or are actually
jn the possession of any of his Majesty's subjects, or of tbose of
72
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1629.
1630.
Jan. 13.
1631.
March 14.
June 22.
Westminster.
any other Christian Prince or State, then as regards such part of
the premises these presents shall be void and of none effect. 3|
membranes. [Pat. Roll., 5 Car. I., p. 5, No. 5.]
152. Patent from the Council for New England to William
Bradford and his associates, called the last patent for New Ply-
mouth. Mutilated by damp but repaired. " Vera copia examined
ita attestor Thos. Hinckley." 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 3.]
Printed in Hazard Coll I., pp. 298-303.
153. Warrant to the Lord Treasurer. To pay to Sir John
Harvey 5001. for transportation, and 1,000?. per annum for enter-
tainment out of the customs and duties of tobacco and other goods
imported from Virginia. [Docquet, Dom. Charles I.]
154. Letters Patent to the Governor and Company of Providence
Island, Henrietta, and adjacent Islands. Becites the Letters Patent
of 4th December 1630 (see ^st Vol. of Calendar, p. 123); and
whereas some doubts have been made whether upon exact com-
putation of latitude one of the Islands taken under them, be really
included therein or not, his Majesty, on petition of said Governor
and Company, by these presents, takes into his possession all islands
situate between 6 and 24 N. Lat. and 210 and 310 Long., not
being in the actual possession of any other Christian Prince, or of
any of his Majesty's subjects by any former Grant, and grants them
to the said Governor and Company, with the same powers, privileges,
&c., as are contained in the before recited Letters Patent. 5 Membs.
[Patent Roll, 7 Chas. I., pt. 14, No. 3.]
June 27. . 155. The King's Commission to Edward Earl of Dorset, Lord
Chamberlain to the Queen, Henry Earl of Dariby, Dudley Earl of
Dorchester, and Sir John Coke, Secretaries of State, Sir John
Danvers, Sir Robert Killigrewe, Vice-chamberlain to the Queen, Sir
Thos. Roe, Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General, Sir Heneage Finch,
Recorder of London, Sir Dudley Digges, Sir John Wolstenholme,
Sir Francis Wyatt, Sir John Brooke, Sir Kenelme Digbye, Sir John
Zouch, John Bankes, Thomas Gibbs, Samuel Rott, [Wrote], George
Sand, John Wolstenholme, Nicholas Farrer, Gabriel Barbor, and
John Farrar, appointing them Commissioners to consider how the
estate of the Colony of Virginia has been, what commodities have
been raised there, how the estate thereof standeth at present, what
commodities may be raised there which may be more profitable to
said Colony, and by what means said Colony may be better
advanced and settled in future times ; and to present to his Majesty
their proceedings from time to time, with propositions for settling
said Plantation, and encouraging Planters and Adventurers. This
Commission to continue in force notwithstanding the same be not
from time to time continued by adjournment. 1 Memb. [Patent
Roll, 7 Car. /., pt. 20, No. 50.1 Printed in Rymer, see Syllabus,
>. 882
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 73
1631.
Aug. 4. 156. Grant to Sir Robert Heath, Attorney General of the
Canterbury. Province of Carolina. This grant is an exemplification or recitation
of the former Letters Patent granted to Sir Robert Heath on
30 Oct. 1629 (see ante No. 151) at his own request. Certified copy
Shaftesbury ly R^fo. Rich and Jo. Mycliell. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX.,
Papers. ^ ^
1632.
Feb. 4. 157. Richard Salstonstall to Emanuel Downing, Esq., at the
Massachuietts Bishop's Head in Fleet Street, near the Conduit in London. Since
Bay- his arrival in New England has endeavoured to give a true and
faithful relation of such things as come within his observation.
The country abounds with good creatures needful for sustentation
of the life of man. When they have liberty from building and
inclosing of grounds for the safety of their cattle from wolves,
doubts not but they shall raise good profit not only by their fishing
trade but by hemp, flax, pitch, tar, potashes, soap, ashes, masts, pipe-
staves, clapboards, and irons. Therefore, good Sir, encourage men to
come over. If gentlemen of ability would transport themselves
they might advance their own estates and might improve their
talents and time in being worthy instruments of propogating the
gospel to these poor barbarous people. Prays him send over by
some East Country merchants to get some few master workmen for
the ordering of their potash work. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS.
Commiss., XII. Report, App. /., p. 449.]
1633.
Sept. 23. 158. The King's Commission to Thomas Young. Whereas Thomas
Young of London, gentleman, hath offered to discover divers nations,
countries, seas, straits, rivers, and trades in Virginia and other parts of
America as yet undiscovered and not inhabited, without putting us to
any charges. We being graciously pleased to accept his endeavours,
and to further and assist him therein, grant full power and authority
to said Thomas Young, and such masters, mariners, and others as
will associate themselves with him in that voyage under our ensigns
to discover the seas, coasts, bays, straits, creeks, rivers, and passages
in Virginia and other parts of America, and to make ready the
necessary ships furnished with ordnance and arms, munition, and
commodities, and them to carry with them, any law, proclamation,
or patent to the contrary notwithstanding. And for his better
encouragement, we further grant to said Thos. Young and his assigns,
power to cany in said ships goods not prohibited and to trade with
the inhabitants of said countries which he shall discover or with any
others, and to take possession of all said countries as are yet undis-
covered and therein erect our banners and to enter into friendship
and alliance with the princes, governors, and people as well of the
parts which they shall discover as in their passages to or from those
places, and to receive so many of them not of the actual obedience
of any Christian Prince into our faith and allegiance as shall be
willing to submit themselves under 'our obedience. And we con-
stitute said Thomas Young Governor and Commander of the vessels
and men he shall carry forth with him to make said discovery, with
power to appoint captains and officers in said expedition and to
govern, furnish, execute, or pardon or do any act of justice agains,t
74 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1633.
his own company at sea or on land in any country wheresoever they
shall go in as absolute manner as any General of any army of ours.
And we inhibit all others to trade with or frequent any country
said Thos. Young or his assigns shall discover without special
license in writing under his hand and seal, and the ships and goods
of any so trading and frequenting shall be forfeited, with power to
said Thomas Young to seize them, one half to our use and the other
half to said Thos. Young, his heirs and assigns, with power to repel
any forcible invasion, license to seek for metals and mines of gold,
silver, or precious stones, rendering the fifth part to us ouHheirsand
successors, and authority to set up factories and to fortify and leave
any of our subjects with arms to defend said countries, ports, and
places, and to make prisoners and lawful prize of any with their
ships and goods who shall seek to inhabit or trade with said
countries without special leave. All our subjects inhabiting and
planting therein and their offspring to be free denizens of England.
And we command all our Admirals, Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace,
and all other our Officers, Ministers, and subjects to be aiding and
assisting said Thos. Young, his heirs and assigns, and to give them
free passage as under our safe conduct. [Patent Roll, 9 Gar. /.,
part 1, No. 6.]
Dec. 12. 159. Emanuel Dowing to [Sec. Sir John Coke]. Sir Ferd.
Gorges with his copartners have many years past laboured to make
a plantation in New England, where, having spent their travail and
money in vain, being ashamed of their own and envying their
neighbour's prosperity, have of late made claim to the very ground
where Mr. Winthrop with a colony hath built and planted, labour-
ing either to overthrow their patent of corporation or to have other
government established. This plantation and that of Virginia
went not forth upon the same reasons, nor for the same end.
Those of Virginia went only for profit. These went upon two other
designs, some to satisfy their own curiosity in point of conscience,
others, which was more general, to transport the Gospel to those
heathen that never heard thereof. The only considerable objection
against this plantation is that in time they will revolt from their
allegiance, and join in trade with strangers. The whole trade of
the plantation is maintained by such undertakers as remain in
Old England. Those that govern the whole plantation have both
lands and children here. Divers others are in reversion, and so in
hope of lands here for themselves or their children. The under-
takers here will persuade the planters to accept a new patent, and
thereby be bound to transport no masts, &c., for cordage and
shipping but into Old England. One thing will be humbly desired
from his Majesty in this patent, aid against all foreign enemies,
and that the patent be enlarged a little to the north, where is the
best firs and timber. It is a causeless fear without precedent that
a colony planted in a strange land was ever so foolishly besotted as
to reject the protection of their natural Prince. Examples from
Romans, Dutch, and Portuguese Colonists. Shall any suspect that
in this Colony that never since the creation happened in any
[Colony], surely they would be counted a foolish and mad people
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 75
1633.
that should without constraint take their stocks out of their friends
and kinsmen's hands to venture and hazard the same in men's
hands in whom they have had no experience. Let this Corporation
but enjoy the liberty of their patent, and to choose their own
officers, as every corporation doth here, then shall this kingdom
clearly gain by the fruits of their labours that commodious trade
of cordage, pitch, and tar. Understands of ill news from New
England that the Dutch have intruded upon the principal and
best river in New England which runneth along the back of this
plantation. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., XII. Report,
App. //., pp. 38, 39.]
1634.
July 3. 160. Petition of Peter Spencer to the Lords of the Admiralty.
Being bound in a ship of passengers for Virginia, " it fortuned a
bottle of strong water was lost," for which a boy of the ship was in
most cruel manner whipt by the master, Jeremy Blackman, with
the tags of points bent and whipcord to force him to confess,
through which torment the boy (as the Master pretends) accused
petitioner with two others, and notwithstanding petitioner manifested
his innocence the Master caused him to be drawn up with ropes,
and hung up by the wrists with a murderer or mortar piece of
2 cwt. made fast to his legs, there hanging in most miserable
torment upon the rack till the passengers crying out shame on him
cut petitioner down. Prays their Lordships to call Blackman
before them to answer the above, and also his language to his
L ,-r Majesty's drum-major. With reference to Sir Henry Marten and
his report thereon. [Dom. Chas. /., Vol. 271, No. 1 2.]
July 27. 161. The King to the Sheriffs of London and the Keeper of
Belvoir Castle. Newgate. The King having received certificate from Edward
Littleton, Recorder, touching the King's mercy to Thos. Brice, a
condemned prisoner in Newgate, they are required to deliver him
to Capt. Thomas Ketelby, or to any other Captain whom Ralph
Brice, father to the delinquent, shall appoint, the body of said
Thomas Brice, to be transported to the King's plantation in Virginia,
provided that if he should return to England without the King's
special license, then he shall be taken and executed according to
the judgment already pronounced against him. [Dora. Chas. /.,
Vol. 272, No. 63.]
Aug. 17. 162. Sir John Pennington to Lords of the Admiralty. Met on
Aboard the 9th instant a great Holland ship, the White Greyhound, of Rotter-
Plymouth^ound < * am > wn i n came ^ rom St. Christopher's laden with tobacco and
cotton, and bound for Holland, yet there were 28 Englishmen
aboard, planters, and two -thirds of the lading belonged to them, so
sent her into Plymouth by one of the whelps to Sir Jas. Bagg.
Hopes he has not done amiss, though his warrant for that business
does not stretch to the Dutch, howsoever, is sure it will be at least
1,OQO. in the King's purse. Extract, [Dc>m. Chas, /., Vol. 273,
No. 49.]
76
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1634.
Aug. 23.
London.
1635.
March 8.
Chelmsford.
March 11,
April 10.
163. Emanuel Downing to Sec. Sir John Coke. Has not heard
from Mrs. Meredith about Bourke's land ; hopes his Honor will .take
or has taken a coiu-se for passing Read's grant. A ship returned
from New England to the west country with masts, which is the
first, and now the trade being by us discovered, fears the Dutch
will use their wits to appropriate it. But if the plantation
prosperously proceeds, doubts not the English will make good that
trade against Dutch and French, and likewise gain the country to
his Majesty. The Governor this spring sent some English to
plant upon the river of Connecticut whither the Dutch last year
encroached. They will now be confined to their bounds unless
they mean to fight for more. [Coke MSS., Hist, MSS. Commis.,
XII. Report, App. II., p. 64.]
164. Richard Weston, Baron of the Exchequer, to the King.
At the Assizes held for Surrey, Richard Ingram was found guilty
of the felonious taking of two kine in February last, and was also
at the Lent Assize in 1633 condemned for stealing two horses,
when his Majesty's Warrant was issued to deliver said Ingram to
Lewis Edwards to be transported into Virginia, with proviso that
if he returned without license, he should be executed according to
judgment. Ingram confesses he had not been in Virginia nor had
license to stay in this kingdom. The sheriff is commanded to stay
execution till his Majesty's further direction. [Dora. Chas. /.,
Vol. 284, No. 42.]
165. Letters Patent to Sir Henry Spiller, Sir Abraham Dawes,
Lawrence Whitaker, Edward Ayscough, and Lawrence Lownes.
Recite Proclamations of James I. of 29 Sept. and 2 March in 22nd
year of his reign, forbidding the importation and sale of tobacco
not of the growth of Virginia and the Somers Islands. Another
proclamation of 30 Dec., 17 Jas. I., forbidding the planting of
tobacco in England or Wales, which were renewed by proclama-
tions of 9 April and 13 May, 1 Chas. I., 17 Feb., 2 Chas. I., 9 Aug.,
3 Chas. I., and (? 6) Jan., 6 Chas. I., and appoints John Gilby and
Richard Bigge to prosecute offenders against said Proclamations,
and Sir Henry Spiller, and the others above-named, are appointed
Commissioners to compound with such offenders, said Gilby and
Bigge to receive a fourth part of the fines recovered. [Dom.
Chas. /., Case C., No. 5.] The jive proclamations of Charles L
above referred to will be found abstracted in the first Volume of
this Calendar.
166. Notes by Secretary Sir Francis Windebank of business
transacted by the Lords of the Treasury. Lady de la Warr's pension
of 50UZ. per ann. out of the customs of Virginia respited. [Cecily
Lady de Ja Warr, in a petition to the King some months before, set
forth that she had only 101. per ann. to maintain herself and seven
children ; that King James on the death of her husband had
granted her a pension of 5001. per ann. for 31 years, to be paid out
of the customs of Virginia, but the grant being more than half
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 77
1635.
expired she prayed for a renewal for 31 years from the present time,
see Col. Papers, Vol. 8, No. 18.] Extract. [Dom. Ckas. L, Vol. 285,
No. 7.]
May 5. 167. Zouch to " his dear and loving father Sir John Zouch."
[Virginia?] Perceives that if the Governor (Sir John Harvey) could have done
him any " dispight " here he would have pursued it to the utmost.
Left one of the kine he was to receive for his father at Capt.
Browne's. The Councillors and Burgesses for the Assembly have
framed a letter as from the Burgesses and others to the Council,
complaining of their manifold aggrievances, and desiring redress
from them. The people of the lower parts met in such troops to
set their hands to the letter, that it put Capt. Purify into an affright
that caused him to write to the Governor of many incident clangers,
insomuch that he durst not keep a Court until he heard from him or
had a letter from his Majesty. Hereupon the Governor sendeth
warrants for the Council, who, soon after they met, consulted about
sending the Governor for England, but Capt. Browne went home
over night, " a pain that he had in his belly excused him sufficiently,"
by reason he opposed the Governor as did the rest. Mr. Menefie
absolutely refused his aid in arresting the Governor, alleging reasons
that it was not fit to deal so with his Majesty's substitute. Menefie
went not home as he said, but to the back river, where he debated
with himself, desiring of God to confirm his resolution or abolish it ;
but the loss of his country striking in his stomack, at last he came
resolved as the rest, where the Governor did arrest him of high
treason for the words he spake against him at Kecoughton, Sir
John Zouch then present ; but the Governor had no sooner given
Mr. Menefie the thump on the shoulder, but Capt. Utye took him by
the middle and arrested him in his Majesty's name, the rest stepping
and taking hold of him likewise, looking pale as did Kemp. The
Governor refused to go till he saw no resistance, and then desired
to choose a Deputy, who, though he spoke very mildly ever since,
was denied ; they meet (? sic) sending him for England with all that
can object ought against him, himself residing at Little Town in the
interim, forgetting and laying aside all malice formerly between
them. Need not be further impertinent, presuming he will be
acquainted with the cause shortly after he has wondered at
Harvey's unlooked for coming. The Maryland men have boarded
Capt. Claiborne, taking all his trade and trading stuff, bound his
men and cast them into the hold, besides beating and hurting them
in what manner they are not fully acquainted with, but hopes they
will have a journey to Pacowomeeke. The country prayeth for
Sir John Zouch, and generally wishes him to come Governor. His
sisters and all friends very well. 3 pp. \Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 4.] Gov. Harvey, in a letter to Sec. Windebank, of 3 April
1635 complains of "the preposterous haste" of Sir Jo/in Zouch
to leave the Colony. In another letter to Sec. Windebank of
14 July 1G35, dated from Plymouth, Harvey "excuses his coming
from Virginia without license." See Col. Papers, Vol. VIII. t
Nos. 53, 73.
78
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1635.
May 7. 168. Governor Sir John Harvey to Richard Kemp, Sec. of
James Town, Virginia. These are in his Majesty's name to will and require him
Virginia.
upon ^ firgt sittmg o f tlie Council and Country now gathered
together, he declares unto him that their Assembly is unlawfully
called and grounded upon meeting and rebellion. Straitly charges
all manner of persons that have been called thereunto, that upon
pain of death without further consultation had, they betake them-
selves like obedient subjects peaceably to their several homes,
and seeing their agents are gone for England to expect his Majesty's
will and pleasure therein. Moreover, strictly commands them of
this Assembly to make present answer whether those persons be the
first authors of laying violent hands on and deposing his Majesty's
Lieutenant and Substitute from his charge and trust, some of the
Council charging him with treason, and those some other insolent
persons seek to cloud their inveterate malice and contempts to
government under false pretences of general good, which hath been
evermore the colour and shadow of all rebellions. Therefore, in the
fear of God and obedience to the King, forewarns them not to run
headlong upon a certain ruin of themselves and their posterities.
[Coke MSS., Hist MSS. Commis., XII. Report, Append. Part II.,
p. 79.]
169. Lords of the Admiralty to Bobt. Earl of Lindsay. Upon
information given that ships coming from St. Christopher's,
Barbadoes, the Caribbee Islands, Virginia, Bermudas, and other
English Plantations, go to foreign countries with their goods, to the
King's great loss in his customs, the Council have given the Lords
of the Admiralty order to cause such ships to come for the Port of
London or some other port of this kingdom. Pray him to take
effectual care for meeting with such ships, and to cause the masters
to enter into bond to bring their ships to London or some other
English port ; and should the master of any ship refuse, the Earl is
to place aboard a sufficient cupplement of men to bring the ship to
London. [Dom. Gar. /., Vol. 264, fol 128a.]
May 25. 170. Sam. Matthews to [Sec. Sir John Coke ?]. Account of the
Newport News, differences between Governor Sir John Harvey and the people of
irgima. Virginia. The Governor is leaving James Town and the Colony,
appointing Capt. John West to act as Governor till his Majesty
appoint another. [Coke MSS., Hist. MSS. Commis., Xllth Report,
App. Part II., p. 81,]
May 15.
Whitehall,
June 18, 171. Acts of the Court of High Commission. A petition read
from John Haydon, prisoner in Bridewell, wherein he voluntarily
acknowledges his manifold contempts against the authority of the
Court, as well in preaching abroad since his degradation, as also in
making sundry escapes out of prison, and offers voluntarily to
leave this kingdom and go to Virginia, if order were given for his
enlargement ; which the Court ordered on his giving bond with
sufficient sureties. Extract. [Dom. Chas. /., Vol. 261,/oZ. 243.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
79
1635.
July 8.
Dec. 5.
1636.
Feb.
and
March.
Maivh 20.
Weymouth.
172. Warrant to the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex and the
Keeper of Newgate. For delivery of Maurice Cavenaugh, Richard
Greene, Jane Wood, Anthony Bromley, Mary Fortescue, John
Humfreys, Margaret Challicombe, Joan Howell, Jane Pryn, Elizabeth
Branscombe, Mary Burbeck, Elianor Sutton, Elizabeth Williams,
and Thomas Merry, to Capt. Thos. Hill or Capt. Richard Carleton,
to be transported by them into Virginia, with a clause for executing
any of the said prisoners who return. [Dom. Chas. /., Docquet.]
173. The King to the Sheriff of Kent. In behalf of John
Tallford, miller, convicted at the last quarter sessions at Canterbury
of stealing a mare, and now to be transported by William Gibbs
into Virginia, not to return without special license. [Dom. Chas. I.,
Docquet]
174. Notes by Edward Nicholas, of business to be transacted by
the Lords of the Admiralty :
Feb. 11. To give directions concerning a ship to transport
Sir John Harvey to Virginia. [Dom. Chas. /., Vol. 313, No. 84.]
Feb. 17. To know his Majesty's pleasure concerning a ship
to transport Sir John Harvey to Virginia. [Ibid., Vol. 314,
No. 13.]
Feb. 18. To consider of Sir John Harvey's letters to have the
Mary Rose with 50 or 60 men to transport him to Virginia, he
will pay the charges of victuals and wages. Margin, Sir John to
repair to the officers of the Navy. [Ibid., No. 19.]
Feb. 29. Warrants for the Black George to transport Sir John
Harvey to Virginia, and to appoint what vessel shall be set forth
in her place. Margin, respited. [Ibid., No. 108.]
March 7. Sign Warrants for the Black George to transport Sir
John Harvey to Virginia, and to appoint what ship shall be added
to the fleet in her place. [Ibid.]
175. List of 106 persons " bound for New England " from the
port of Weymouth. This list is headed with the names of Joseph
Hall [sic ? Hull] of Somerset, minister, aged 40, Agnes his wife
aged 25, seven children and three servants. Then follow Musachiell
Bernard of Batcombe, clothier, Mary his wife, and two sons ;
Richard Persons, salter, and servant ; Fras. Baoer, chandler,
Joseph Joyner, Walter Jesop, weaver, Timothy Tabcr of Batcombe,
Jane his wife, three daughters and servant ; John Whitmarck, Alice
his wife, and four children ; Wm. Read of Batcombe, Susan his
wife, two daughters ; Rich. Adams, his servant, Mary his wife and
child ; Zachary Bickwell, Agnes his wife, son, and servant ; George
Allen, Katherine his wife, three sons and a servant ; Henry King-
man, Joan his wife, five children and a servant ; William King,
Dorothy his wife, and four children ; Thos. Hoibrook of Broadway,
Jane his wife, and four children ; Thos. Dible, husbandman, and
Frances his sister ; Robt. Lovell, husbandman, Eliz. his wife, and
five children and servant, Alice Kinham ; Angell Holland, Katherine
his wife, and two servants; Rich. Joanes (sic) of Dinder, Robt.
Martyn of Badcombe, Joan Martyn, Hump. Shepheard j John.
80
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1636.
Upham, Elizabeth his wife (?) and five children (? not stated but
all Uphams) ; Rich. Wade, Eliz. his wife, Dinah his daughter, and
two servants ; John Hoble and Robt. Huste, husbandmen, John
Woodcock and Rich. Porter. Signed by John Porter, Deputy-
Clerk to Edward Thoroughgood. 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 5.]
April 2. 176. Commission from the King to Sir John Harvey, Governor,
Westminster. a nd to such as are or shall be appointed Councillors of Virginia.
Whereas by Letters Patent of 26 March 1629, his Majesty nomi-
nated said Sir John, by the name of John Harvey, Esqre.,
Governor, and divers persons the Council of said Colony, which
commission bis Majesty absolutely revokes by these presents ;
nevertheless, for better ordering the affairs of said Colony until
his Majesty shall find means to give more ample directions for the
same, his Majesty by these presents nominates said Sir John
Harvey, and such others as his Majesty has named or shall here-
after name, to be the Governor and Council of said Colony, with
power to execute the authorities incident to a Governor and
Council of Virginia, as amply as any Governor and Council there
at any time within 10 years last past, nevertheless, according to
such instructions as they do now or shall hereafter receive from
his Majesty, his Privy Council, or the Lords Commissioners
for Plantations for the time being ; with power to grant com-
missions for the discovery of the country, and finding out what
trades shall be most advantageous, and to send out forces for
subduing the Indians, and make war and peace with them, keeping
always sufficient forces for holding the places now enjoyed. With
power to the greater part of said Council, upon the death or in the
absence of the Governor, to elect one of said Council to be present
Governor; and to the Governor, on the death or discontinuance of
any of said Council, to give notice thereof to his Majesty and
Commissioners of Plantations. Also power to Sir John Harvey
and to Richard Kemp, who have already taken their oaths, to
administer the like oath to said Councillors. This commission to
continue in force until by some other writing under the Signet,
Privy Seal, or Great Seal of England, his Majesty shall signify his
pleasure to the contraiy. If membs. [Patent Roll, 12 Car. /.,
pt. 21, No. I.]
April 29.
Whitehall.
177. Lords of the Admiralty to Sir Henry Marten. Edward
Cason and other merchants of London, Adventurers for the increase
of trade in the West Indies, have prepared the Hopewell of London
of 200 tons, carrying 16 pieces of ordnance, with a pinnace, the
Hope, of 30 tons, for discovery of that part of the Continent
betwixt Virginia and Canada and the Islands thereof, and like-
wise to fish amongst the French, to make corr-fish upon the Grand
Bank in the ocean not fished by any English, and to repair to the
eastward of New England and Canada to seek and trade for sea-
horse teeth and other merchandize. They have desired a com-
mission against pirates and sea rovers who haunt those fishings to
be granted to Richard French, captain of the ship and pinnace j
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 81
1636.
which is to be issued according to the usual form. 2 pp. [.Dom.
Ghas. L, Vol. 130, p. 30.]
May 19. 178. Warrant to the Sheriffs and Keepers of the Gaols in Kent,
Sussex, Essex, and Herts. To deliver William Savage, John
Richardson, Thomas Browne, alias Anderson, Richard Martyn,
John Skeete, and George Garrett, condemned prisoners in said
gaols, to William Drysdell to be transported into his Majesty's
Plantation of Virginia, with proviso that they return not without
the King's special license. [Dom. Chas. L, Docquet.]
June 12. 179. Lords of the Admiralty to William Smith, captain of the
Hampton Court. Black George, appointed to transport Sir John Harvey and his
company, servants, and followers to Virginia. To receive Sir John
at Portsmouth and to proceed in a straight course to Virginia, to
land Sir John, who was his Majesty's Governor of that Plantation,
at such port as he should direct, and to attend to take aboard and
bring from thence such persons, goods, and provisions as Sir John
should appoint to be brought for England. To apply himself to
such directions as Sir John shall give for his Majesty's service, and
on his return to shape his course for Chatham, where the Black
George is to be moored for the next winter. 3 pp. [Dom. Chas. I.,
Vol. 157, fol. 47.]
Aug. 17. 180. Edward, Viscount Wimbledon, to Sec. Sir Francis Winde-
God'g House in banke. For Sir John Harvey's letter, he will be careful to give it ;
Portsmouth. Qr ^ j g SQ ^ f rom b em g gone, that his people there cannot hear
of him. Wishes he were departed, for there come daily so many
from London to go with him that it is feared they may bring that
ill (the plague), which as yet they are clear of. For haste of the
journey, they see little. This day they are unloading the ahip to
search for a leak, being a most crazy old ship. Extract. [Dom.
Chas. /., Vol. 330, No. 44.]
Sept. 24. 181. Examination of John Dunton of London, mariner. In a
small ship of London, called the Little David, set out by Mr. Armitage,
a woollen draper, at the sign of the Beads in Cannon St., witli
50 men and boys and 7 women, bound for Virginia, John Hogg,
Master, they were all taken by a Sallee man 35 leagues beyond the
Land's End ; they were taken to Sallee and sold for slaves, amongst
whom was a son of examinant about nine years of age. Was sold
to one Aligolant, who having the greatest part in this bark, and
having never a Christian slave but examinant that could take
charge of a ship, commanded him to go Pilot to the English Channel
for taking English women, being of more worth than other. Coming
on the English Coast they took a fisher boat with intention to make
a party against the Moors, according to a previous resolution. At
a certain time they called to the Dutch and English to stand up for
their lives and liberties, whereupon they drove the Moors into the
hold, hoisted up a white flag and hung the Turks' Colours over the
stern into the water, and brought their bark into the first port,
[Dom. C7w. /. : Vol. 332, No. 30 V]
y 72843, J
82
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1637.
Sept. 30. 182. Order of the Privy Council. On petition of Margaret and
Hampton Court. Elizabeth Gates, daughters of Sir Thomas Gates, and Margaret
Gates, widow of Anthony Gates, son of Sir Thomas. About three
years past they petitioned his Majesty for moneys due to Capt.
Thomas Gates, deceased, son of Sir Thomas, for his service in the
voyages to Cadiz, Rhe', and Rochelle, in which service by a cannon
shot he lost his life. His Majesty referred the petition to the late
Lord Treasurer, but his Lordship dying suddenly nothing was done.
Petitioners being now destitute of means to relieve their wants,
or to convey them into Virginia, where their father, Governor of
" that isle," died and left his estate in the hands of persons who
have ever since detained the same, besought the Lords to be a
means to the now Lord Treasurer for payment of the moneys due
to said Capt. Thomas Gates. Their Lordships taking same into
consideration hereby pray the Lord Treasurer, when petitioners
shall make appear what is due to them, to give order for payment
thereof as soon as may be. Draft, with correction. [Dom. Chas. I.,
Vol. 368, No. 91.]
1638.
Feb. 23. 183. Petition of Alexander Harris, deputy saltpetre-man for
London, to the Commissioners for Saltpetre. Prays that his de-
putation may be for 21 years ; and whereas his factors of Barbadoes
and Virginia advise that saltpetre may be raised in those places
inhabited by the English, prays the Lords to make him their sole
deputy in those colonies. [Dom. Chas. /., Vol. 382, No. 77.]
March 23. 184. Appointment of Capt. Richard Morison to be Captain of
the Castle at Point Comfort in Virginia, void by the death of
Capt. Hooke. [Dom. Chas. I. Docquet.]
March 29. 185. Grant to Richard Morison of the office of Captain or Keeper
Westminster. o f the Castle of Point Comfort in his Majesty's Dominion of Virginia,
vacant by the death of Capt. Francis Hooke, late Governor there,
during pleasure, with the same privileges and emoluments as were
granted to said Francis Hooke. Latin. [Patent Roll, 14 Car. /.,
Pt. 38, No. 5.]
1639.
Jan. 8.
Feb. 5.
186. Commission to Sir Francis Wyatt to be Governor of
Virginia, with the powers granted to Sir John Harvey in 1636,
but with this enlargement, that upon death or discontinuance of
any of hia Majesty's Council there, the Governor and Council may
choose others whose names are to be certified to his Majesty or to
the Commissioners for Plantations for allowance. [Dom. Chas. I.
Docquet]
187. Wan-ant to the Sheriff of Surrey and the Keeper of the
Gaol of White Lion, Southwark. To deliver to William Flemmen
of London, gent., the bodies of Francis Osborne, alias Stillinge,
Alice Williams, and five others condemned prisoners in the said
gaol, to be transported to Virginia, with proviso that if they remain
here above 20 days after their enlargement, or return without
license, then to be executed. [Dom. Chas. I. Docquet.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 83
1639.
Feb. 17. 188. Lord Arundel of Wardour to Sec. Sir. Fras. Windebanke.
My son Baltimore is brought so Low with his setting forward the
plantation of Maryland, and with the clamorous suits and opposition
which he hath met withal in that business as that I do not see how
he could subsist if I did not give him his diet for himself, his wife,
his children, and servants. Extract. [Dora. Car. I., Vol. 413,
No. 17.]
March 8. 189. Answers of Elizabeth, wife of Charles Barcroft of Old Ford,
Middlesex, to articles objected against her by the Commissioners
for Causes Ecclesiastical. In August 1636 her husband left off his
trade in London and went into Virginia, where he yet lives, upon
occasion that John Barcroft, his brother and factor there was
deceased, her husband having divers debts and goods owing to him,
where he traded as a merchant ; and that he left no competent
estate in money, &c., but has yearly sent this respondent com-
modities from Virginia to make money of and maintain herself in
good fashion and reputation. Upon the departure of her husband
she went to reside with her father and mother at Whitechapel,
where she stayed about a year, but denies that she entertained any
unlawful familiarity with John Barcroft, Thomas Bulkeley, or other
lewd persons. 10 pp. Damaged by damp. [Dom.Chas.I.,Vol.2l4,
No. 71.]
July 1 1. 190. Sir Francis Wyatt, Governor ot Virginia, to Secretary Si.
John Coke. Presents his instructions having passed the examination
of the Sub-Commissioners for Foreign Plantations together with the
names of such persons as their Lordships approve of as fit to be
of the Council in Virginia. For the place of muster master,
Capt. John West, a gentleman of noble quality, is an humble suitor
to his Majesty, who, being recommended by my Lord of Holland,
presumes not to add anything in his behalf. Is now ready for his
voyage which his Majesty's service with the time of year call upon
him to hasten. Annexed,
100. I. Secretary Sir John Coke to Sir Francis Wyatt. Sends
back his instructions signed by his Majesty with the name
of Capt. John West inserted for his muster master, in his
Majesty's own handwriting. In wishing him a prosperous
voyage with honour and contentment in his employment,
commends him to God's protection. [Coke MSS., Hist.
MSS. Commis., Xllth Report, App. Part II., pp. 236,
237.]
July 11. 191. Sir Francis Wyatt to Mr. Weckerlin, Secretary to Secretary
Sir John Coke. His suit is that his instructions may be signed
by his Majesty and returned to him, being on the point of begin,
ning his voyoge ; has deposited with Mr. Lucas six pieces for
Mr. Secretary, and four for himself. Begs he will direct his
instructions to him at Mr. Mordaunt's house at the sign of the
Golden Gridiron, by the Maypole, in the Strand; [Coke MSS, t
Hist. MSS. Commis., Xllth Report, App. Pa^t II., p. 236.]
F 2
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1639.
Aug. 7.
Westminster
Palace.
164-1.
Aug. 9.
Westminster.
1644.
Antigua.
192. The King to the Provosts of King's College, Cambridge,
and of Eton College, and to the electors there. Recommends
Francis Wyatt, a scholar of Eton College and son of Sir Francis
Wyatt, Governor of Virginia, to be chosen and admitted at this
election to the first or second place in King's College, Cambridge.
Signed by the King. [Dom. Chas. L, Vol. 427, No. 28.]
193. The King's Commission to Sir William Berkeley and others
to be the Governor and Council of Virginia. Whereas by Letters
Patent dated llth January 1639 his Majesty appointed Sir Francis
Wyatt and others to be the Governor and Council of Virginia,
which Commission his Majesty absolutely revokes by these
presents ; nevertheless, minding that said colony should be regu-
lated as well in ecclesiastical as temporal government, according
to the laws of England, his Majesty therefore, for the better
ordering of the affairs of said Colony, until he shall find means to
give more ample directions for the same, by these presents
nominates Sir William Berkeley to be the present Governor, and
Sir Francis Wyatt, John West, Richard Kemp, Samuel Matthews,
Nathaniel Littleton, Christopher Wormeley, William Peirce, Roger
Windgate, John Hopson, Thomas Paulett, George Menefie, Henry
Browne, William Brocas, Argall Yardley, Thomas Pettus, Thomas
Willoughby, Richard Bennett, and Humfrey Higgeson, to be the
present Council of said Colony, with power to execute the autho-
rities incident to a Governor and Council of Virginia as amply as
any Governor or Council there within the space of 10 years last
past ; to grant Commissions for the discovery of the country, and
finding out what trades shall be most for the advantage of said
Colony, and to send out forces for the subduing of the Indians,
and make war or peace with them in all cases, as may stand with
the safety of said Colony and his Majesty's honour, keeping
always sufficient forces for holding the places now enjoyed. And
said Commissioners shall have power on the death or absence of
said Sir William Berkeley to select one of said Council to be present
Governor. Nevertheless, they shall proceed according to such
instructions as they do now or shall hereafter receive from his
Majesty's Privy Council and Lords Commissioners and Committees
for the time being. And upon the death or discontinuance of any
one of said Council, said Governor and Council shall elect some
other discreet person in the room of him, and certify the same to
the Lords Commissioners of Plantations to receive allowance or
disallowance. And said Sir William Berkeley and Richard Kemp,
before they depart out of England, shall take the oaths heretofore
taken before the Lord Keeper or Lord Privy Seal, and shall after-
wards administer the same to Sir Francis Wyatt and the other
Councillors aforesaid. And this Commission shall continue in force
until by some other writing under the Signet, Privy Seal, or Great
Seal, his Majesty shall signify his pleasure to the contrary.
2 Membs. [Patent Roll, 17 Car. I., pt. 6, No. 6.]
194. Eight Acts passed by the Governor, Council, and Assembly
of Antigua, viz. : November 20, against carnal copulation between.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
85
1644.
1650.
May 24.
May 27.
Nov. 27.
1651.
Sept. 13.
1652.
Jan. 11.
Christian and heathen. November 12, against incest; against
removing from one division to another without order ; appointing
the proportion of ammunition to be kept in private houses ; against
the transporting of timber without license ; against heaving ballast
or other hurtful matter out of any shipping or vessels within any
of the harbours or roads of this Island ; against indebted runaways
suing for their creditors by attorneys, and concerning the measuring
of land by sworn surveyors, &c. Each Act is signed Henry Ash ton,
Governor. Together, 9 pp. [Col Entry Bk., No. 49, pp. 49-57.]
195. License for Sir Lewis Kirke, John Clever, and Charles
West to pass to Newfoundland. [Dom. Interreg., I. Ill, p. 11.]
196. Order of the Council of State. That the Lord Albion shall
have liberty to transport into New Albion such men, arms, and
ammunition as he hath ready to go thither, lie giving good security
that they shall not act anything prejudicial to the State. [Dom.
Interregnum, I. 64, p.. 393.]
197. Minutes of the Council of State. Upon consideration of
the four propositions presented to the Council from divers Mer-
chants of London and planters interested in the Island of the
Barbadoes, it is resolved that both in respect of the matter and
manner of them they are dishonorable to the Council, find there-
fore to be rejected and layd aside. [Dom. Interregnum, I. 13,
p. 67.]
198. License for Capt. John Ravenscroft to pass to Virginia.
[Dom. Interreg., I. Ill, p. 25.]
199. Articles agreed on by Lord Willoughby of Parham and
Sir Geo. Ayscue, Daniel Searle, and Capt. Michael Packe for the
rendition of Barbadoes to Sir Geo. Ayscue, General of the State's
fleet before said island, for the use and behoof of the Parliament of
the Commonwealth of England. Liberty of conscience in mattei's
of religion, except to such whose " teneuts " (sic.) are inconsistent
to a civil government, and that laws be put in execution against
atheism, blasphemy, and open scandalous living, and that no
Minister be deprived except on scandalous living, seditious
preaching, or unsound doctrine proved against him. Courts of
justice and judgments to be valid unless reversed by law. No
taxes, customs, impost loans or excise to be levied without consent
of the Assembly. No man to be imprisoned or put out of posses-
sion of his lands or goods without due process of law. All suits to
be determined in Barbadoes, and none to be compelled to go to
England without consent of the Assembty. An Act of indemnity
to be passed by the Parliament in England to keep the inhabitants
of Barbadoes harmless for anything done or spoken before the date
of these Articles to be filed among the records of the Assembly, and
that the Act of 3 Oct. 1050, whereby the inhabitants of Barbadoes
have been declared Traitors, be taken oif the file from among the
records. All said inhabitants comprised within these Articles to
86 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1652.
be restored to their lands and possessions to which they have right
in England, Scotland, or Ireland. No oaths or engagements to be
imposed upon said inhabitants against their conscience. To have
as great freedom of trade as ever, no companies to be placed over
them, and no commodities engrossed into private men's hands.
Lord Willoughby, and those employed by him, to be discharged
from the payment of public debts which as before are to be paid
by the excise on strong liquors and such other ways as the Assembly
shall seem fit, provided respect be had to such as have eminently
suffered in their estates. All persons to have liberty to transport
themselves and their estates, first setting up their names according
to the custom of said island. Prisoners to be set free, and horses,
cattle, servants, negroes, and other goods returned to their right owners,
except such servants as had their freedom given and came on board
before Saturday, 3rd January. That particular persons in said island,
together with Sir Sydenham Poyntz, who have estates on Antigua,
may peaceably return. That for a certain time execution be stopped
on sufficient caution given, the Commissioners and Assembly to be
judges of the time and caution. That the three small vessels on
ground before the Bridge Town remain to their owners, with liberty
to go to any port laden. Lord Willoughby to have his lands, rents,
and estates in England without fine or composition restored to him or
his assigns, free from all encumbrances laid by Parliament or any
other authority, and his settlement at Surinam, or any part of the
main of Guiana, to be enjoyed by him without disturbance; to
have liberty to bring servants from any port in England or Ireland,
and his plantation at Antigua to be reserved to him, and all his
estate in Barbadoes to be to him entirely preserved. The estates
in said island of all persons which have been sequestred " upon
this public difference "to be forthwith restored to them. Said
island, with all forts, artillery, arms, and ammunition to be de-
livered to Sir Geo. Ayscue for the use of the States of England
before 12 o'clock on Monday, 12th inst. January ; no garrisons to
be kept, and all forces disbanded within 24 hours of the sealing of
these articles, and the Militia to be disposed of as the present
Commissioners and future Governors shall seem fit, but this article
not to be construed to take away the arms of any private in-
dividual. The Government of said island to be by a Governor,
Council, and Assembly according to the ancient and usual custom.
The Governor to be appointed by the State of England, the Council
for the present to be by him chosen ; the Assembly to be chosen by
a free election of the freeholders. And whereas the chief cause
of our late troubles and miseries hath grown by loose, base, and
scandalous uncivil language tending to sedition and division, it is
agreed that at the next Assembly a strict law be made against all
persons under heavy penalties for reviling speeches respecting
former differences, and reproaching any man for the cause he hath
formerly defended. These Articles, with all convenient speed, to
be presented to Parliament to be by them confirmed. All laws
heretofore made by the General Assembly to be good excepting
those which concern the present differences. Lord Willoughby to
have liberty to go to England, and stay or depart at his pleasure.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 87
1652.
without having any oath or engagement put upon him, he acting
nothing prejudicial to the Commonwealth of England. Signed and
sealed, F. Willoughby ; also Hen. Scobell, Clerk of the Parliament.
Annexed,
199. I. 1652, Aug. 18. The House this day took into considera-
tion the above Articles, and Resolved that the Par-
liament approve and confirm same, provided that nothing
therein mentioned extend to the prejudice of any third
person as to any of the plantations mentioned in said
Articles, or confirm Lord Willoughby, or any other person
by liis authority in the place of Governor or Commander,
or in any Government or command in any of the Plan-
tations. Signed by Hen. Scobell, Clerk, Parliament.
1 Sept. 1652. Sworn by Henry Harloff to be a true copy.
17 pp. [Dora. Interreg., G. 145, pp. 89-121.]
May 6. 200. Orders of the Council of State. That 100Z. be paid unto
Capt. Richard Nieholls by Mr. Frost out of the Council's con-
tingencies for his good service in bringing the news of the
surrender of the Barbadoes according to the Order of Parliament
of 23 April 1652, anil that Ten Pounds be paid to [blank in orig.],
who brought the first news of the surrender of Barbadoes. [Dom.
Interreg., I. 67, pp. 17, 18.]
Nevii. 201. Order of the Assembly of Nevis on Capt. William Digby's
claim touching the bounds of his Plantation. Whereas in the time of
the late Governor Capt. James Lake (1643) the Assembly adjudged
that there must be " an extent line " from Fig-tree Pond to Saddle
Hill, the present Governor has caused the Surveyor "to draw a
Platform " of all those Plantations that might cross one another ;
whereby it plainly appears that said Act was most necessary, and
that there is no possibility to answer Capt. Digby's ends. Cer-
tificate to be sent to his Lordship. Also, Order of the Assembly
for making " an extent line " between certain Plantations from the
Fig tree Pond southerly down to Saddle Hill. 1$ pp. [Col. Entry
Bk.,No. 49, pp. 13, 14"]
1653.
March 10. 202. Council of State to our loving friends the Governors and
Whitehall. Commissioners of the United Colonies, New England. The Par-
liament having committed to us the especial care of the Plantations,
and having considered the occasion the Commonwealth has for
tar, masts, deals, and other materials, and how they may be
supplied from New England if the discouragements upon those
commodities are removed, conceive ourselves obliged to do what
we can to take away all obstructions and give all due en-
couragement by promoting and augmenting the manufacture there,
so as not only to render the supplies more certain and less de-
pendent upon other countries, but also to increase the trade and
welfare of that plantation, and as we have appointed a ship to be
fitted out and sent to New England for 10,000 barrels of tar, as
also other commodities, we desire you will use all possible means
to provide them. Signed by Salisbury, President. Annexed,
3 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1653,
202. I. Account of the sale of goods, amounting to 1.68H. 4s. 2d,
received from aboard the King David. Signed by Thos.
Clarke and Thos. Lake. Boston, New England, 1653,
Oct. 29.
202. II. Another account of money received for masts, tar, and
other commodities shipped for England, amounting to
1,368Z. 16s. Id. Signed by Clarke and Lake. Eight
passengers to England by the King David paid 51. each,
viz., Mrs. Susanna Evans and two others, Jacob Mygate
and Step. Heman, G. Horden, Mrs. Jorden, and Sam.
Whytfield. Boston, 1653, Nov. 7.
202. in. Invoice of goods, consisting of hose, serges, cloth, rugs,
blankets, bolsters, stuffs, iron ware, &c., sent to New
England for the account of the Commonwealth aboard
the Augustine, Capt. Robt. Fenn, to be disposed of by
Maj. Sedgwick and Lieut. Leverett, to procure masts.
1654, Feb. 11.
202. iv. Account of disbursement on the King David in New
England and at her return at London. 1654, Mar. 6.
Together, 25 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 6, 6 I. -IV.}
Oct. 6. 203. Order of the Council of State. That Mr. Lawrence,
Mr. Strickland, and Charles Wolseley and Col. Jones, or any two
of them, be appointed a Committee to consider of that part of the
letter written from Mr. Hooke [Rev. William Hooke of New
Haven] which relates to the practise of the Dutch with the natives
in New England, and to speak with Mr. Winslow concerning that
business, and upon consideration had of the state of the whole
matter, to report to the Council what they judge fit to be done
thereupon. [Dom. Interregnum, I. 71, p. 50.]
1654.
June 6. 204. Petition of Capt. Daniel Howe, of New England, to the
Lord Protector and Council. Was cast away between Virginia and
New England ; bought a ship at New Amsterdam, in America,
called the Hopewell, which was taken from him in Virginia by
Lieut.-Col. Edm. Scarborough, under pretence she traded for the
Dutch, and Scarborough procured one Peter Wraxhall to swear she
acted under his Commission ; and the matter being referred to the
Governor and Council in Virginia for their award, petitioner suc-
ceeded so far as to obtain leave to come to England, upon entering
into bond in 1,OOOZ. to appear before the Council of State or the
Admiralty Court, and abide by their decision whether his ship or
the value thereof, being surprised by the Governor of Virginia, was
a prize to that colony under their commission from the Council of
State. But on presenting his papers to the Admiralty Court,
petitioner found that Wraxhall's owners had procured a con-
demnation of the ship in their favour behind his back, notwith
standing Wraxhall's engagement to stand by the award of the
Governor, and thereupon was advised to appeal to the Judge
Delegates, but although petitioner has attended since Feb. last,
he can get no redress. Prays that his case be taken into con-
sideration. With reference to the Admiralty Commissioners, to
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 89
1654.
give such speedy and effectual order as they seem meet. 1654,
June 9. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 7.]
July 1. 205. Mark Harrison to the Navy Commissioners. Sends parti-
Church Prize, culars of his voyage since leaving Portsmouth. Lost company of
newBoston ^ ne Black Raven and Augustine in storms and extremity of
New England, weather, and were forced to Fayal. It was concluded by Major
Robert Sedgwick and Capt. John Leveret to send the Black Raven
home again as not fitting to go to the westward. Arrived at
Boston 12 May 1654, where they waited three weeks for the
coming of the Major, who arriving with Capt. Fenn in the
Augustine, they commenced raising forces for taking the Dutch
plantation, and the assistance of the Southern Colonies was not
wanting in carrying on that design, but Massachusetts did not act
witli that life that was expected, supposing they had not a just
call for such a work. After spending some time in raising soldiers,
and having accomplished their desires, received news of the
peace with the Hollanders, whereupon the colonies deserted them,
and they were forced to let the design fall through. Masts not
being ready, it was thought good to turn their design towards the
French, and to prosecute same have entertained 100 soldiers, and
are now ready to put forward on that design, intending to spend
the time they are forced to stay for masts. Hope to give full
account of their proceedings in their next. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 8.]
21 July. 206. Mark Harrison to the Commissioners of the Admiralty.
On board the Since his last "it hath pleased the Lord to give into our hands
S Cnu 8 rch! P from the Fr ench " the fort commonly called St. John's Fort ; in it
John River, were near ninety persons, about seventy men, nineteen pieces of
Bay ofFundy. ordnance, sixteen " bases and murderers," with other arms enough
for three times as many men, not much beaver, but a considerable
quantity of skins. The terms upon which they surrendered were
that they should be transported to France, have their clothes and
single arms, forty days' victuals, and march out of the Fort with
colours flying and match burning at both ends, and drum sticks.
The Major intends with speed to go for Fort Royal, ten leagues
from this place ; it is a considerable place, but not so strong as is
already taken. 1 p. Two papers, one almost a duplicate of the
other, but addressed to the Commissioners of the Navy. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 9, 10.]
Aug. 30. 207. Mark Harrison to the Commissioners of the Admiralty at
On board the "Whight Hall." Since his last [see preceding abstract], "it hath
on theToast of P^ ease( l God to give us the fort commonly called Fort Royal,"
Acadia. which they took the 8th inst. In it were 113 men, twenty -three
great guns besides others, arms for 500 men, fifty barrels of powder,
and shot proportionable, and a great quantity of provisions; also
a ship of about 200 tons and 1 6 guns, partly laden with brandy,
French wines, &c. The ship was given them to carry the French-
men taken in the fort to France, only the guns, powder, and shot
were taken out. Are now at Penobscot, where the French have a
90
COLONIAL PAPERS.
Aug. 31.
On board the
Church,
at Penobscot,
Coast of
De La Cadie,
New England.
2 Oct.
1654.
small fort yet in their possession, but expect it from them daily ; it
is a place of good trade with the Indians. Not any more French
inhabiting this coast. Sept. 9th. Since writing the above have
taken Penobscot Fort, and are now arrived at Piscataqua. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 11.]
208. Mark Harrison to the Navy Commissioners. To the same
effect as the preceding, with the addition that in taking Fort Royal
they lost one man outright, and 6 wounded, while marching up to
the fort, by an ambush. They fired at our men before they saw
them, but our Old England soldiers gave them no more time to load,
but ran upon them and put them to the route, killed 5, wounded
divers, and quite disheartened them from coming out of the fort any
more although they had as many men as we. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 32, No. 12.]
209. Order of Court of the Bermudas Company. On represen-
tation by the Governor and Council in the Somer Islands of the
great prejudice to divers persons for want of a liberty to try titles
to lands in the Courts there, the Grand Committee report that
liberty be henceforth granted to prosecute suits for titles to lands
to judgment and recovery in said islands, provided that all persons
concerned have liberty of appeal to the Company. Endorsed, " 2 d
Octob. 1674 (sic). Order of the Bermuda Compr. for settling
Courts of Judicature in their Islands. Read the 23 rd of Octob.
1679." 1 p. See Lefroys Memorials of the Bermudas, II. 49.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 13.]
Nov. 9. 210. Maj. Robt. Sedgwicke and Capt. John Leverett to Richard
Boston, Hutchinson, Treasurer of the Navy. These are to accompany a
England. bm o f exc h en ge of 646L 14s. 4,d. payable to William Barrett, for so
much disbursed in New England for the service of the fleet be-
longing to the Commonwealth of England by Capt. Leverett out of
his proper estate. " Pray you at time make payment, so commending
you to the Lord." p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 14.]
Nov. 10. 211. Petition of Capt. Daniel How to the Commissioners for the
Admiralty and Navy. That petitioner has been now almost two
years in trouble about his ship the Hopewell, and understanding
that Major Hazard is still weak so as petitioner can have no
appearance of him and being unable to lye here and wait, prays
for a speedy hearing until when he cannot be clear of his bond in
1,000. to the Governor and Council of Virginia nor get some
tobacco owing to him in Virginia, see ante, fio. 204. 4 P- [Col.
Papers, Vol. 32, No. 15.]
Dec. 212. " A particular list of the names of the persons already paid
their first month's pay for their respective qualities under the
command of General Venables in the West Indies." Five regiments
and a troop of horse. The first under Genl. Venables, with Lt.-Col.
Edward Doylie, Major Francis Mercer, and Capts. George Butler,
Carey, John Cqoke, Henry Davice, Henry Disney, Thomas Hand-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
91
1654.
1655.
March 17.
On board the
Swiftsure,
Barbadoes.
cock, George Persons, and Obadiah Hinde ; the second under Major-
Genl. James Haines, with Lieut-Col. John Clarke, Major Saml.
Barry, and Capts. Henry Archbould, Richard Bamford, Daniel Smith,
George Toms, Edward Willett, Thomas Walter, and RichardYounge ;
the third under Col. Richard Fortescue, with Lt.-Col. Richard
Holdyrt, Major William Hill, and Capts. Henry Bartlitt, Bartho.
Davice, Obadiah Edwards, John Keene, Samuel Leverington,
Richard Weles and White ; the fourth under Col. Anthony Buller,
with Lieut.-Col. Francis Barriugton, Major Michael Bland, and
Capts. Adam Baynard, Stroud Bingham, Christopher Cooper,
Vincent Corbitt, John Minn, Throckmorton, and Arundall ; the
fifth under Col. Andrew Carter, with Lt.-Col. Thos. Bushell,
Major John Fergeson, and Capts. Nathaniel Bowers, Winkfield
Blunt, Abra. Finch er, Nicholas Halford, and Thomas Salkeild; and
the troop of Horse under Capt. Jones ; also John Cud worth, Judge
Advocate, John Dean, Marshall General, Mark Fowler, and Thomas
Goodfellow, Provost Marshalls, Robert Wadeson, Treasurer, Philip
Warde, Adjutant General, John Rudyard, Quartermaster-General,
and many others, in all 471. 2 large sheets. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 16.]
213. Vice-Adm. Wm. Penn to the Navy Commissioners. They
may understand what a gallant passage the Lord gave us and both
seamen and soldiers in health and in a quiet and cheerful posture.
After his arrival on 29 Jan. seized all foreign ships and vessels
found here trading contrary to the law which with those since came
in ; 15 in all are fitted for transportation of the forces raised in the
Island, being above 3,000 foot and 2 troops of Horse. Shall be
necessitated to victual all these vessels out of our fleet, for from
this island nor any of those to leeward can any provisions be had
or hoped for, only a small quantity of flesh which is part of what
the Navy Victuallers sent hither for sale, and which has been dis-
posed of for the use of said levies. The great increase of the
number of mouths made by this accession and the necessity that
they must all depend and be sustained by that provision brought
with us from home, will easily persuade them that our stock will
suddenly be consumed and we driven to great straits and
disadvantages if speedy and large supplies do not come, especially
bread which cannot be sufficiently provided in New England
though all the bakehouses there were constantly employed for that
purpose. What provision they have to spare are usually brought
to this Island for sale, where the inhabitants give excessive rates
for all they bring so that we may be supplied at more easy prices
from home and with more speed. The case being fully before them,
prays them consider how much this great and honourable design is
concerned in the care that shall be taken touching supplies and how
easily it might become abortive through the want thereof. The
non-urrival of the ships left behind in the river, and wherein are
most of our arms and other necessaries very requisite, has occasioned
our stay here thus long, but having with much difficulty procured
1,500 fire arms of the Islanders and some other things held
absolutely necessary in carrying on the work, had fully determined
92
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
to depart hence, though those vessels do not arrive, on the 24th
inst., throwing ourselves upon the goodness and providence of God
for the rest and hoping you will accompany us with your prayers
and be motives to the people of God to become Petitioners to the
Lord for his presence to go with us. P.S. Find the old canvas
brought very much decayed by the rains and dews in these parts,
and if supplies be not made the ships will receive 20 times more
damage through want than the charge thereof can amount to.
Encloses,
213. I. Account of carpenters' and gunners' stores expended in
fitting prizes for transportation of men, also account of
what stores are needed in lieu thereof. Together, 3 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 17, 17 i.]
March 19. 214. Lewis Byres to Commissioners of the Navy. Sends dupli-
Dover frigate, ca tes by Capt. Collins of the Malaga, merchant of the men's tickets
discharged since his departure from England. All the ship's com-
pany in good health. Has given in two muster books to be sent
to them. | p. [Col Paper*, Vol. 32, No. 18.]
Barbadoes.
May 9.
June 7.
Barbadoes.
215. Order of the Council of State for an allowance to Major
Robt. Sedgwick during the time he was employed in the public
service at New England and thereabouts against the French at the
rate of 15s. a day, and directing warrants to be issued for payment
of same. [Dom. Interreg., I. 76, p. 64.]
216. Commissioners for prize goods to the Admiralty Commis-
sioners. Having been impowered by His Highness' Commissioners
for managing the affairs of America to transact the business of the
Prize Office in this Island, have seized some few Dutch ships and
Hamburgers. Upon first entering into the employment, found
many considerable debts due to his Highness for prize goods sold
in the time of Sir George Ayscue almost four years since, for re-
covering whereof and such other contracts as they should make the
Commissioners here empowered us to enquire after those debts and
upon good evidence to condemn, and upon condemnation to grant
executions for the same, which course on confidence of their power
and ours derived from them we practised until it was declared
against by the General Assembly as being against the law of
England, since which we have foreborne and desire your direction
therein, and as speedily as possible as the delay is already of great
prejudice to His Highness's affairs, and will be much more if we
be compelled to sue in the Courts for every debt formerly due or
hereafter to be contracted by us. Desire to be advised what the
practice is in the Prize Office in England and what acts are in
force to warrant their practice, and in case the Prize Office can only
sue for their debts due on contracts made by them in the Admiralty
Court, as it seems by one Act we have seen, they conceive there
is no Court of Admiralty in this Island, which if his Highness
will erect and confer upon hone.st able men may supply this defect,
and in other matters much advance his Highness's service. Signed
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
93
1655.
June 22.
Barbadoes.
Jamaica.
by Thos. Modyford, John Roberts, and Rich. Saunders. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 32, No. 19.]
217. Bond of Capt. Giles Pasfield, Mate, and Capt. Geo.
Pasfield, Commander of the ship, Barbadoes merchant, in 1,000?.,
that said Giles Pasfield shall, when required, appear before the
Commissioners of the Admiralty in England, to answer what shall
be objected against him by the Commissioners of the Prize Office of
Barbadoes. Witnesses, Thos. Modyford, John Roberts, Peter Lear,
and Rich. Saunders. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 20.]
July 24. 218. Vice-Admiral William Goodson to the Commissioners of
The^Torrington, the Admiralty and Navy. Hopes Genl. Penn will arrive before
this, who will give account of having left 12 ships under Goodson's
conduct ; six of which were at sea, two left to ply off St. Domingo,
one of which, the Selby, took a small vessel, and having taken
out what they thought good, made a hole in her and turned her
adrift, for which and other misdemeanours (the Captain) is cashiered
at a Court of War (proceedings inclosed) and sent home in the
Augustine. The Selby and Grantham came in on 28th June
and are both careened. Capt. Ve<sci is dead and Capt. Blyth
appointed in his room ; in the Selby, Capt. Henry Powell, and
in the Hound, Capt. Symon Evans, formerly Lieutenant of
the Gloucester. Two small pincks taken at Barbadoes on the
5th July came in the Dover from Caymanos, and the Great
Charity from England, by which received their Honors' packets to
Genl. Penn and understood of some ships of war coming with
provisions which will be welcome if good. Could have wished they
had sent some flesh, poor -jack or stockfish, for they have none even
to refresh sick men. The Falmouth came in on the 8th and the
Arms of Holland from Caymanos, and on the 1 1th the Hound
from the same place ; they failed to meet with the French, but
have saved a little turtle. Sends their " Diurnals." The 13th Sep-
tember the Portland " spent " her foremast, yards, sails, and all in
a great sea, and in making a new one, find that the sap of the new
masts, which have not lain two months in the water, is eaten by
the worm like a honeycomb. By direction of Genl. Venables
and Esquire Butler, Commissioners, has sent home the Marston
Moor and Augustine, a victualler, and hopes in three days to sail
with eight ships to lie before Carthagena and Portobello. The
Falmouth and a Brigantine ordered to the north of the Island, to
prevent correspondence between Cuba and the Spaniards of this
Island who are mostly fled to that side,' and to meet a party of our
soldiers. Has received 3,000. for what he has disbursed to the
ships for victuals ; sends herewith an account, also accounts of the
victuals in the fleet at present, how many men dead since 25th June,
what stores left by the ships that went home and what expended.
Great want of boatswains', carpenters', and stewards' stores, and of
provisions for sick men. Advises that no drink be sent but brandy
in very substantial casks, and a little vinegar, for the cider wholly
94 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
decays, and the beer grows flat or sour, all provisions must be very
good and well saved or they perish in this country suddenly ; also
copy of same letter. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 21, 22.]
Aug. 14. 219. Tho. Modyford, John Yeamans, Hi. Saunders, and John
Barbadoes. Roberts, Commissioners of the Prize Office of Barbadoes, to the
Commissioners for the Admiralty of England. On 2nd May last
Ralph Woory, and Giles Pastield informed they had seized the
King David of Hamburgh for coming to the Island contrary to the
Acts, and Pasfield undertook to preserve ship and goods for his
Highness ; but Pasfield has confessed that he sent 2 hhds. of wine
and brandy on board his cousin's ship, the Barbadoes merchant,
and certain sails, &c., are wanting (as by the oath of said Woory
inclosed appears). Have reason to conceive that much more has
been embezzled by him, in regard the invoice of goods found on
her comes far short of what the Master and Merchants allege was
upon her at the time of seizure. And further, said Pasfield having
seized the Fortune of " Auquiseri " [? Enkhuysen], suffered her to
sink in the harbour, to his Highness' damage of at least 25,000 Ibs.
of sugar. Annexed,
219. I. Deposition of Erick Wrede, Commander, John Behn,
Class Sure (cook), Jacob Honemester, and Roger Shapley,
of the ship King David. That the ship belongs to Jerome
Sincker, Daniel Brandess, Ber Mnlder, John Rorus, and
said Erick Wrede, all of Hamburgh ; bound for Martinico,
St. Christopher's, &c., with beef, pork, clothing, brandy,
wine, &c., and was to return to Hamburgh, and that they
came to this Island only for water. 1655, May 12.
219. II. Deposition of Ralph Woory, Solicitor General. On the
27th April last, seeing a ship with Hamburgh colours in
Hawley's Bay, he went aboard and (in the hearing of
Capt. Mott, the Provost Marshal) seized the ship to the
Lord Protector's use, and ordered Capt. George Pasfield's
mate and men to keep her. Capt. Mott brought the
master of the ship to the Governor and demanded what
power Dept. had to seize the ship ; but Col. Modyford
and Mr. Leer, Commissioners of the Prize Office, confirmed
what he had done, and drew an order to Pasfield's men to
keep the ship ; whereupon Dept. went on board again,
and the master not being on board, broke open his chest
and took out such books and papers as he could find.
219. ill. Depositions of Capt. Giles Pasfield and Caleb Elliot,
gunner of Capt. George Pasfield's frigate. On 27th April
last, seeing the ship King David " lying off and on as if
she expected some intelligence from the shore," Pasfield
went on board with four men and asked where they were
bound ; they answered, for Curasao, and asked if they
might water and if there were any other Hamburghers
there ; he answered he knew nothing against their
watering, and there was one Hamburgher there, &c. They
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 95
1655.
then anchored in Hawley's Bay, where the Provost
Marshal, Capt. Mott, came on board, and after him
Mr. Woorey who required Dept. to take charge of the
ship ; but Mott " commanded them to begone or else he
would carry them ashore and lie them by the heels,"
whereupon they repaired on board their own ship. But
afterwards warrant being brought by Mr. Woory, Dept.,
with nine or ten men, went aboard and seized the
ship and goods, and keeps possession thereof to this day.
And further, the King David at her coming in saluted
the Fort with three guns. 1655, May 2.
219. IV. Inventory of the tackle, furniture, ordnance, &c. of the
ship King David of Hamburgh, taken by Elias Pilgrim
and Roger Larrance by warrant from the Commissioners
of the Prize Office (at Barbadoes). and valued at 17,9241bs.
of sugar, together with a receipt for same, and for three
months' provision for 15 men, from Capt. Nicholas Shapley,
dated 7th June 1655.
219. v. Invoice, appraised by Edward Collinson, Tho. Cooper,
Ralph Woory, and Edw. Thornburgh, by order from the
Commissioners of the Prize Office [of Barbadoes], of goods
landed out of the ship King David, of Hamburgh,
amounting to 69,609 Ibs. of sugar. 1655, May 16.
219. vi. Charge of Ralph Woory, Solicitor, against Giles Pasfield.
That whereas said Woory made seizure of the ship King
David, of Hamburgh, in the name and for the use of the
Lord Protector, and put said Pasfield and company in
possession of said ship ; said Pasfield purlioned wine,
brandy, sails, and other goods belonging to said ship.
And further that said Pastield having order to deliver to
said Woory the goo Is seized in the Manatee prize, refused
to do it and let her sink. Also deposition of Roger
Shapley, steersman of the King David, that said Pasfield
carried away to his owner's ship the new mainsail and
fore topsail of the King David. 1655, June 6. Together
8 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 23, 23 i.-vi.]
Aug. 29. 220. Robt. Wadeson, Thos. Broughton, and Win. Crispin to
Koston, [Commrs. of Admiralty ?]. Send particulars of their proceedings
r *ngn as Commissioners for managing the affairs of America, for con-
tracting for and buying provisions for the Army and Navy at
Jamaica to the value of 10,000^., and to draw Bills upon Rich.
Hutchinson, Navy Treasurer, for payment. Suppose they have
heard from Gen. Penn that they sent the Falcon Fly Boat, Adam
and Eve, and Golden Falcon, the last losing her captain on the
way from Jamaica to Boston to lade, but they were somewhat
delayed for needful reparations, also for mills to grind corn and
bakers to make bread, but hopes to give them quick dispatch.
Have desired Mr. Broughton to lend one of his ships for the trans-
portation. Have also drawn bills of exchange to the amount of
2,009. 4s., of which they have given notice to Mr. Hutchinson,
96
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
and will give all further accounts on their arrival in England.
li pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 24.]
Sept. 6. 221. Major-Gen. Robt. Sedgwick to the [Navy Commissioners.]
Marmaduko, Sailed from Plymouth 11 July and arrived safely with the whole
ar oes Boad - S q Uac i roll 27 Aug. " God was pleased to smile upon us in a very
comfortable passage." There is no news from the leeward save
what they heard by a dogger boat after the repulse at Hispaniola.
" What since they have done we know not/' Is this day setting
sail in her to Jamaica to-day by order of Gen. Penn, and will touch
at St. Christopher's to inquire after friends. " God in mercy direct
us." Men's thoughts here are various concerning them. " I hope
God hath brought down our confident spirits to fill us for some
more noble work. When flesh begins to glory, it is mercy if God
will stain the glory of it." Many think Jamaica a more consider-
able island than Hispaniola, and may effect more than the other.
Has bought some provisions at reasonable rates, and there are some
effects in the Prize Office to pay for them. Finds both soldiers and
seamen active and willing and not discouraged, and therefore hopes
God has yet a blessing for them, and that this design is His and
that He will own it. Desires they will thank their honest brewer
for supplying such good beer, and that he will find mercy for former
offences for this his good service. 2 pp. [CoL Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 25.]
Sept. 6.
On board the
State's Ship,
Mannadukc,
Carlisle Bay,
Barbadoes.
222. Capt. Wm. Godfrey to Robt. Blackborne, Secretary to Com-
missioners of the Admiralty. Had a comfortable passage in this
part of the expedition in the Western design. Arrived 26 Aug.,
and Major-Gen. Sedgwick having since taken in a supply of pro-
visions for the army intends sailing to-day for St. Christopher's, and
if no news present there of the fleet then to proceed to Jamaica.
1 p. [Col. Peters, Vol. 32, No. 26.]
Sept. 19.
On board the
223. Capt. H. Maddison to Col. Clarke, Admiralty Commis-
sioner. Arrived in Carlisle Bay, Barbadoes, 26 Aug., and sailed to
St. Christopher's ^- Christopher's, 7 Sept., where he is staying to enable the Colonel
Road. to procure men to complete his regiment. Major-Gen. Sedgwick
intends to sail to-day for St. Domingo and Jamaica according to
instructions sent to Barbadoes from Gen. Penn. 1 p. [CoL Papers.
Vol. 32, No. 27.]
Sept. 19. 224. Petition of Margaret widow of Major-Gen. Edw. Gibbons
of New England, to the Lord Protector. Petitioner's husband, by
victualling the State's fleet in Virginia and by losses in reducing
that plantation, as also by piracy, together with many public
services rendered in New England, where he lived 30 years, hath
been so much impoverished that his whole estate, to the value of
4,000., is in the hands of La Tour, the late French Governor, for
payment of which the fort of St. John, in the Bay of Fundy, was
mortgaged, together with the plantations adjoining, which being
taken by Major Sedgwick petitioner's husband, together with
herself and family, have been wholly ruined and his creditors
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
97
1655.
damaged. Was sent to England by her husband and has given
attendance for half a year, during which time he died in New
England. Beseeches his Highness to grant an order of reference to
the Navy Commissioners to give a certificate so that some relief
may be granted to her. " Oliver, P. We refer this petition to the
consideration of the Commissioners for the Navy, wishing them to
consider what course is fit to be taken for the petitioner's relief,
and to report unto us their opinion concerning the same. 1655,
Sept. 19." 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 28.]
Sept. 19. 225. Order of the Council of State. That it be referred to the
Commissioners of the Admiralty to give order for the speedy pro-
viding of the particulars after mentioned for the use of the English
in Jamaica. These include spades, shovels, pickaxes, handbills,
hatchets, and hoes ; also clothes for the officers and medicaments ;
also that the two ships lately ordered be hastened away. Signed
by Henry Scobell, Clerk of the Council. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 29.]
Sept. 22. 226. Joshua Wilson to the Navy Commissioners. Had a corn-
On board the fortable passage to Barbadoes and arrived in Carlisle Bay 26 Aug.,
Ma [n7he Uke> an( ^ rema i ne d un til 7 Sept., our General in the meantime providing
Old Road, an additional supply of victuals to carry to Gen. Penn's fleet, as it is
St. Christopher's. n ot known in what condition they are. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 30.]
Sept. 26.
Whitehall.
Sept. 27.
Whitehall.
227. Order of the Council of State. That it be referred to the
Commissioners of the Admiralty to give order for a fit ship to
convoy beyond Scilly Island a vessel bound for New England,
wherein is Daniel Gookin employed in the State's service. p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 31.]
228. Order of the Council of State. That the Commissioners of
the Admiralty give speedy order for providing and shipping for
the service of this Commonwealth the provisions and other things
herein specified, which include 60 tons of beef and pork for
3 months for 2,000 men, bread, brandy, rice, spices, lampwick,
tallow candles, two pinnaces or skiffs 20 and 30 feet long, sails,
spars, axes, and hatchets, with one or two glaziers, smiths and
masons with materials, coopers, carpenters, calkers, and armourers.
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 32.]
Out. 10.
Whitehall.
I
229. Proclamation of Oliver, Lord Protector, giving encouragement
to such as shall transport themselves to J amaica. Whereas the Island
of Jamaica is, by the providence of God, in the possession of this State,
and the enemy found upon it fled into the mountains with intention
to escape, save such as daily render themselves to our Commander*
in-Chief; and we being satisfied of its fertility and commodiousness
for trade, have resolved to use our best endeavours to secure and
plant the same, and to this end make known, especially to the
people of the English Islands and Colonies, the encouragements
we have thought tit to give to those who shall remove themselvy*
72843. Q
98 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
and their habitations thither within the time herein expressed.
And first concerning security against the enemy, above 6,000
soldiers were landed there in May last, and in July a regiment of
800 men drawn out of our old regiments in England, with eight
ships of war added to twelve others left there by General Penn
under command of Capt. Wm. Goodson, and we shall take care to
send both land and sea forces to secure the island against any
attempt of the enemy. Those who remove thither will be under
the immediate protection of this State, and so eased both of the
danger and charge which other plantations are subject to. They
shall have twenty acres of land, besides lakes and rivers, for every
male twelve years old and upwards, and ten acres for every other
male or female, to be set forth to them after six weeks notice of
their remove. To Jiave liberty for seven years to hunt and dispose
of horses and cattle upon the island not marked by or belonging
to other planters, subject to certain rules. To hold said land with
houses, woods, &c., to them and their heirs for ever in free and
common soccage for seven years, and then to pay one penny an
acre, but no other rent, tenure, or service whatsoever. Said lands,
on desire of the owners, to be confirmed by Letters Patent unto
them, their heirs and assigns. To hold and enjoy all mines except
of gold and silver, and all fishings within their bounds upon paying
one-fifth part of pearls or precious stones, and one-tenth part of all
metals in mines. No custom, excise, or duty to be paid for three
years from 29 Sept. 1656, and not to be drawn into the wars
themselves or their servants, unless in case of invasion or rebellion
and for defence of the island. Power to build walls, bulwarks, and
castles upon their own land for security of their plantations, and
to arm themselves and servants against enemies or rebels under the
directions of the Commander-in-Chief. All born within said island
to be accounted free denizens of England, and to enjoy all the
privileges as any natives of England. All transporting themselves
within two years from 29 Sept. 1656, and professing the Protestant
religion, to enjoy said privileges and advantages. And for the
more certain carrying on this business our Commander-in-Chief of
said island is authorized and required to take notice of the pre-
mises, and cause a due and effectual execution of same to the
purport and true meaning hereof. 2 large pages. [Dom., In-
terreg., I. 76a, pp. 152-154.]
Oct. 10. 230. Instructions to Richard Fortescue, Major-General of the
Forces in America. To apply himself to the making of forts and
fortifications in fit places to secure the island against any attempt
of the enemy, particularly to strongly fortify the harbour of
St. Jago, where the fleet first arrived. To take care that the
soldiers who have lands for plantation be not severed too far
asunder, but to be in a capacity to unite their strength as there
shall be occasion. To inform himself of all harbours and landing
places upon the island, and take care that soldiers and others shall
have land next adjoining such harbours and landing places, and
be engaged in making defensive fortifications thereon, especially
within, fifteen miles of St. Jago, which lie shall endeavour to be
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 9
1665.
well peopled and fortified at the State's charge, if he cannot get it
done upon the account of particular planters. And until such
places can be peopled and planted to take care that works be made
to prevent the landing of the enemy. And although we do not
understand your condition so perfectly as to the number and
health of the soldiers or otherwise as to enjoin you by any positive
commands to attempt further upon the enemy, yet considering the
supplies both of men and provisions sent you beginning of July
last with Major Robt. Sedgwick, we give you powers and instruc-
tions to be made use of according to your strength and opportunity,
not doubting but you are sensible of the state of our present affairs
in those parts, and how much it imports us and this nation that
there be diligence and activity in those who have the managing of
them. Power and authority to land his men upon territories
claimed by the Spaniards, to take their forts, castles, and places of
strength, and to pursue, kill, and destroy all who oppose them ;
Vice-Admiral Goodson to assist him with the sea forces, and that
they both advise and consult together for the better carrying on
the affairs committed to them, "The want whereof and of that
union of hearts and councils which ought to be amongst persons
so trusted hath been the occasion, amongst other things, of great
miscarriages in this work." Power to offer reasonable conditions
to any who will submit to our government, and to treat for the
surrender of any fort or place for our use, with advice of said
Commissioners. To give frequent account of his proceedings.
Whereas all particulars cannot be foreseen, nor positive instruc-
tions given for emergencies, therefore on all accidents to use his
best circumspection, and so dispose of the forces under his command
that the Commonwealth receive no detriment. 2 large pages.
[Dom., Interreg., I. 76a, pp. 154, 155.]
Oct. 10. 231. Instructions to Capt. Wm. Goodson, Commander of the
squadron of ships in America. To use his best endeavours by all
opportunities to seize all ships belonging to the King of Spain or
his subjects in America, or of any other enemies or rebels to this
Commonwealth, with their goods and monies, and in case of
resistance to sink, burn, and destroy them. All seizures thus made
to be preserved without embezzlement and delivered to his High-
ness's Commissioners, who, with a trusty person appointed by
himself, is to set a due valuation upon them ; and that he take a
receipt for same that the seamen be satisfied how much to expect
from the State for their shares. To seize all ships trading contrary
to the -Act of Parliament of 3 Oct. 1650. To preserve the honour,
jurisdiction, territories, and people of this Commonwealth. To take
care that all instructions as to matter of discipline and well ordering
of the fleet be put in execution. Power, with consent of a Council
of War, to suspend officers under his command, and give com-
missions for places vacant by death or otherwise. To wear the
jack flag at the maintopmast head. To give frequent notice of his
proceedings to the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Generals
of the Fleet, and receive directions from them. To supply and
succour the Army to the best of his power upon all occasions. To join
02
100 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
with the land forces in any attempt made in pursuance of instructions
given to Maj. -General Fortescue, who will also afford him assistance,
and that upon all occasions they consult together, as also with the
Commissioners and others concerned touching the carrying on of
our affairs both at land and sea in those parts, and to use his best
endeavours to maintain love and a good understanding. Authority
to land men upon any of the posseasions of the King of Spain in
America, or other enemies or rebels to us and this Commonwealth ;
to seize their places of strength and ships, and use all other acts of
hostility. To use his best endeavours to gain intelligence from
places in possession of the enemy, to communicate same to Maj.-
Gen. Fortescue and the Commissioners, and to consult together
how it may be improved to the best advantage. Power to arrest
and use any ships to whomsoever belonging he finds necessary for
said services, giving them reasonable satisfaction. To give frequent
intelligence of his proceedings so that he may receive further
directions if there shall be occasion. To use his best endeavours
to get provisions for the fleet from Jamaica and those parts, and
to supply himself from New England or other places and charge
bills for same upon the Treasurer of the Navy in England. 2 large
pages. [Dom., Interreg.,*!. 76a,pp. 155-157.]
Oct. 10. 232. Instructions to Maj. -(Jen. Richard Fortescue, Vice-
Admiral Wm. Goodson, Major Robt. Sedgwick, Daniel Searle, and
(blank) Stoakes, Commissioners for governing our affairs in
America. Rich. Fortescue and William Goodson to assist each
other according to their instructions, and Dan. Searle, Robt.
Sedgwick, and (blank) Stoakes, to advise said Fortescue and
Goodson in the execution of their trusts according to their instruc-
tions. All prizes to be preserved for the public service, a perfect
account kept, and to be disposed of for carrying on the present
service. To secure by the best means the interest of this Com-
monwealth in Jamaica, and to make from time to time constitutions
and orders, and appoint officers and ministers for the good govern-
ment of the people, and to cause justice to be administered " in our
name and style, and to use and preserve same in all commissions,
writings, instructions, and other proceedings." To endeavour the
promulgation of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the
power of true religion and holiness, and the suppression of idolatry,
popery, superstition, and prophaneness, and set apart and apply
to that purpose from what shall come into their hands upon the
public account as they find necessary. And whereas we are
informed of the horrible prophaneness and wickedness of very
many of the soldiers and others belonging to the army " whereby
the Lord hath been justly provoked to leave us a reproach to our
enemy at Hispaniola," to use their utmost endeavours for the
punishment and suppression of vice and prophaneness, and upon
all occasions to bear witness effectually against the same. To
publish proclamations in our name, to invite the natives to submit
to our government, and on submission to encourage them to live
peaceably, and instruct them " in the knowledge of God and
Christ," Power to administer oaths, To hold constant corre-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 101
1655.
spondence with Barbadoes and other English plantations, and one
of themselves, or other fit person to remain at Barbadoes to attend
the service of our affairs. To appoint officers under them with
fitting salaries. Power to commit to prison any disobedisnt to
their orders, and to impose reasonable fines upon 1 the reiractory.
Directions for the taking due inventories of all prizes and prize
goods, and selling the same, the moneys so raised to be put to
account for the use of his Highness and this Commonwealth, with,
power to expend the same for the better carrying on the affairs in
which they are employed, all accounts to be produced and entered
in the Court of Admiralty. And whereas we have resolved to use
all possible endeavours to people and plant Jamaica, and to that
purpose have dispatched Daniel Gookin to New England with
instructions to make propositions to those who may be inclined to
remove to Jamaica to cause agreements to be made with those
people willing to transplant themselves, and certified by said
Gookin, and all other encouragements to be given to them. And
whereas we have published the terms and conditions to be granted
and have also by patent granted to Martin Noel, merchant of
London, twenty thousand acres of land in Jamaica, with certain
privileges, to cause same to be executed and observed on our part,
and so see that their part be likewise performed. To admit any
other people of this Coinmonweath who are Protestants to plant
upon said island on the conditions of said Proclamations [see ante,
No. 229] or granted to said Martin Noel, which we shall ratify and
confirm. To cause said conditions to be proclaimed in the islands
and plantations in America, and use all means to invite people to
plant upon Jamaica. To inform themselves of all harbours and
landing places; directions as to soldiers who become planters [same
as to Maj.-Gen. Fortescue]. As to hunting and taking of horses
and other beasts, to give such directions from time* to time that the
stock be not destroyed, so great numbers now being yearly killed
for their hides and grease. That stores and provisions be justly
distributed, and to provide the fleet with flesh and necessaries. To
send convenient shipping for those wishing to come and plant,
provided it can be done without prejudice to any design upon the
enemy. They will receive a particular of the stores and provisions
sent by the four ships in May last, and those sent in July under
command of Major >Sedgwick, for which they are to account how
disposed of. To use their best circumspection on all occasions for
which they have no positive instructions for securing and enlarging
our interests in those parts. 4 large pages. [f)om., Interreg.,
I. 76a,pp. 158-161.]
Oct. 20. 233. Order of the Council of State. That the Commissioners of
the Admiralty and Navy take care that the fitting of the Marston
Moor be hastened and dispatched for Jamaica with the first fair
wind, if possible, and that Mr. Secretary Thurloe be desired forth-
with to prepare and get In readiness the letters and instructions
for Jamaica, to be sent by said Marston Moor. [Dom. f Interreg.,
I. 76, p. 339.]
102
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
Nov. 2. 234. Order of the Council of State. That the Commissioners
Whitehall. O f the Admiralty give order for payment of two bills, one drawn
by Capt. John Leverett for 500Z., the other by Wm. Crispin,
Robt. Wadeson, and Thos. Broughton, Commissioners for supplying
Jamaica, for 190?., both being for provisions delivered at Boston,
New England, for supply of the fleet and army in Jamaica.
Signed by W. Jessop, Clerk of the Council. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 32, No. 33.]
Nov. 6. 235. " An account of what stores are in Jamaica for the use
Jamaica, and service of the Commonwealth's ships of England under the
command of Captain William Goodson, Admiral," in alphabetical
order. 4 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 34.]
Nov. 14. 236. Major Robert Sedgwicke to (the Commissioners of the
Jamaica. Admiralty). Arrived with their whole squadron 1st October last,
having lost but few men between Barbadoes and this island,
including Capt. Fenn of the Wildeman, and Capt. Maddison of
the Gift. The ships at sea proved well conditioned and tight.
Found both Commissioners and both Generals gone, "and not
any sign remaining that ever there was a Commissioner in these
parts of the world." The fleet here is commanded by Adm.
William Goodson to whom in Gen. Penn's absence he resigned
his sea command, and the army by Major-Gen. Fortescue.
After some few days' debate they drew up the enclosed instrument
by which they acted in public business. Though provisions had
been expected every day, there was no shelter to receive one ton
of goods ; but, " with the activeness " of the seamen, in 6 or 8
days they finished a house 100 feet by 25, and in 16 day unladed
the merchantmen and housed the goods without the help of the
soldiery. There are some days of demurrage, spent at Barbadoes
and St. Christopher's, which could not be avoided. Knows Adm.
Goodson has given their Honors a satisfactory account of the
fleet, but the army is in a very sad condition. Major-Gen.
Fortescue died after they had been here 20 days, and many of the
other commanders are dead or very sick ; 50 of the new soldiers
that came with him are dead, and two captains, one lieutenant,
and two ensigns, and their colonel and lieutenant-colonel sick.
Fears that no account of the State's stores here will ever be
attained to in this world. At his first landing found the whole
shore covered with butts, barrells, and chests of dry goods, as
clothing, arms, surgeon's chests, &c., lying exposed, to all the
damages imaginable, when a week's time with soldiers or sailors
would have built a house to have received them all. Is very
sensible the Commissioners can give but a lame account thereof,
for " I am certainly affirmed " that soldiers have offered to sell
dozens of shoes for 12 pence the pair, new and good ; many pmes
were also brought hither from Barbadoes, and no order left how
to charge any man with the stores. " Here is not so much as the
show of any Commissioner that hath been in these parts ; nor no
account left by the Secretary to the Commissioners, whose papers,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 103
1655.
it is reported, the Lady Venables seized into her hands." Will
endeavour to keep account of what conies to hand in his time, and
is about calling to account any that he hears have been employed
in any public business ; knows the army has swallowed up much.
Has sold 5 old prizes that lay rotting, for 5QOL, to be paid in
goods and provisions, except a bill of exchange for 1551. to the
Treasurer of the Navy. Concerning the wines arrived in Capt.
Crowden's ship, they have disposed of 60 butts to the army and 170
to the fleet, and laid up the rest in store ; the fleet had no need of
them, being already victualled in drink for 8 to 1 2 months, but
how to dispose of them better they knew not. The provision
allowed the soldiery is ^ Ib. bread a man per day, a pint of oat-
meal, a pint of peas, or a pound of flour per day to four men, and
one butt of brandy more to each regiment, at which rate the pro-
visions may serve 5 or 6 months. Their Honours must think
of a supply of provisions, for the soldiers, except some few, will not
work. 200 barrels of powder in an old ship belonging to the
army they have divided among the fleet, conceiving they have
more on shore than can be expended while good. The arms and
ammunition brought for the army they yet keep on board, knowing
them to be better there than on shore. The beef and pork they
bought at Barbadoes was marvellous acceptable. " What God will
do with us here I cannot tell. He at present seems highly dis-
pleased, and shatters us and breaks us to pieces, and in destroying
goes on to destroy us, but I hope will spare and pity a poor
sinful people." Questions not that Admiral Goodson acquainted
them of his business performed at St. Martha, which though
honorably performed produced little profit to the State, the con-
tract being that the seamen and soldiers should have half what
they took ; but what was taken sold but for 400., to balance which
the State had 30 pieces of ordnance, and some powder, shot,
hides, salt, and Indian corn. Must say he thinks " this kind of
marooning cruizing West India trade of " plundering and burning
of towns, though it hath been long practised in these parts, yet is
not honorable for a princely navy, neither was it, I think, the
work designed, though perhaps it may be tolerated at present/'
Are building a fort at the harbour's mouth, and 9 or 10 guns
are mounted. Begs them to further his return home, his con-
stitution agreeing not well with this climate, fears he shall not
long trouble it, but he goes ashore not oftener than business calls
him. " I beg your prayers, we all need them, our condition calls
aloud to you, the Lord make you prevail for us." 5 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 32, No. 35.]
Nov. 14. 237. Major Robt. Sedgwicke to [Navy Commrs. ?]. Arrived Oct.
Jamaica. ],and in our passage God was pleased to smile upon us, though at
the last mixt with some humbling providences by the loss of about
30 seamen and soldiers by the Flux, amongst which were Captains
Maddison and Fenn, whom we left sick at Barbadoes, and, as we
hear, are since dead. Our ships and provisions proved generally
good. We dispatched our merchantmen, though by reason of our
stay at Barbadoes and St. Christopher's, and the w-int of housing
104
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1655.
Nov. 17.
Whitehall.
(1655.)
to receive goods until we built them, exposed us to some few days
of demurrage. The goods generally came out good and according to
invoice save some biscuit bags and 100 cwt. of wire. Questions not
but Admiral Goodson gives a full account of his proceedings since
Gen. Penn's departure, as also of the present state of the Fleet, and
his acting at St. Martha. We have been agitating about the Fleets
going out again, but divers occurrences have hindered ; hopes, how-
ever, we may come to a resolve within two days. The state of our
Army is sad, as God has visited us with a sore hand of sickness,
tearing and snatching us away in much displeasure. Major-General
Fortescue, Commander-in-Chief, died about 14 days since ; believes
since he came to this place not less than 700 men are laid in the
grave ; the greatest part of the Army now sick, and many of our
new Regiment that landed in much health, about 50 of them dead.
Unless God in mercy stay his hand it will be very sad with us.
Concerning this Island, it seems to present itself in a capacity to
produce any commodity that other Islands do. Here hath been and
are store of cattle of all sorts, but our soldiers have destroyed many
of them, the rest being grown thereby more wild, and so more
difficult to take, which before by the Spaniards were most of them
kept under command. The Harbour very convenient for much
shipping and may be commodious for any design in the Indies, if
there be future intentions this way. We have sent home a bill of
exchange to the Treasurer of the Navy for 155?., for one moiety
of a prize sold. As for the account of the delivery of all kind of
provisions and stores, hopes he may give a satisfactory account, but
as yet what came in the State's ships is still on board. Finds all
manner of accounts here for stores belonging to the State in a
strange posture, by reason of men deserting and others dead, so
scarcely knows how to begin that work although entering upon it,
but hopes there will yet be some care had for this poor distressed
Army for provisions, or else fears they may suffer, for the soldiery
cannot be brought to plant, or at least very little. What God will
do with us he best knoweth. I am willing to hope he will yet pity
us. Our case and condition calls for your commisseration and
prayers. 2 pp. Also copy. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 3G, 37.]
238. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty. For making
out three bills, amounting to 779Z. 12s. 9d., for provisions for the
use of the English in Jamaica ; one signed by General Perm and
Comr. Gregory Butler and two signed by W. Crispin, Kobt. Wadeson,
and Thos. Broughton, and placing them to the account of the several
persons who drew said bills. Signed by John Disbrowe, John
Clerke, and Thos. Kelsey. 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 38.]
239. " Proposals of certain ships for the West Indies, and other
necessaries for Fleet and Army, humbly represented by (Vice-
Admiral) William Goodson." There should be 14 frigates and
3 ketches, well sheathed and carefully coppered. Stores for boat-
swains, carpenters, and gunners to be extraordinarily good, and
double or more than the ordinary allowance. Provisions to be very
good and " saved " as for the East Indies ; also flour, peas, an4
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
105
1655.
biscuit, or they suddenly decay in this country. All liquor casks
to be of more than ordinary substance. Surgeons to have fresh
supplies every 6 or 8 months, and double allowances of necessaries
for sick men The ships to be manned as in the Channel, and
public declaration to be made what number of servants every
officer shall carry, and that all servants shall be 16 years of age,
that the Service suffer not by numbers of useless boys. Two
frigates and a ketch to lie before St, Domingo, 5 and a ketch
before Carthagena, 5 before Havana, and 2 and a ketch in the
North Keys of Cuba. Those three to windward to impede the
trade and give intelligence of the arrival of any Fleet ; those off
Carthagena to intercept trade with Spain, Angola, Caracas, &c.,
and be ready to the assistance of Jamaica ; those on the north side
of Cuba to intercept the trade of Santiago. Carvello, Principe, &c.,
and also that between the Canaries, Spain and New Spain, and
Havana. If the Spanish Fleets attempt nothing upon Jamaica,
all the squadrons may meet at the Dry Tortugas to intercept them
" in their conjunction homeward " at the Havana. There should
be kept always a magazine of cordage, sails, tar, &c. ; also a " Master
of Attendance " appointed, by whose order stores may be delivered,
with a boatswain, storekeeper, carpenters, boatbuilders, which
would not only supply their own shipping, but invite all private
men-of-war to Jamaica ; also sealed measures sent to the Steward
General, and a plumber sent to make cisterns for oil and tar. On
account of the Army, That the Fort already made of timber and
shingle, be built of stone, and others made at Ports Morant and
Anthony, for all which 5,000?. is the least that can be sent.
Provisions should be " suddenly " sent for 6 months, and after that
the soldiers may " live of themselves ;" also a supply of shirts, shoes,
and drawers, of which those first sent were in want at his departure.
New powder should be sent, and the old brought back to be new
made. Both Army and ships in want of iron, steel, and coals,
Some Surgeons and their "means" should be sent, also hooks,
lines, and twine for tortoise nets, and some " extraordinary " axeg,
hatchets, and bills, and some honest knowing man employed in the
buying of them ; also some Scotch servants, who would be every
way as serviceable for defence as soldiers, and some Godly ministers
with monies for their maintenance and that of Surgeons and
Penmen . That there be some expedient found whereby the Governor
of Barbadoes may cordially affect this design. 6 pp. Endorsed,
" 1655, cfcc." [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 39.]
(1655 ?) 240. List of men, well and sick, women, and children in the
(Jamaica.) ? General's regiment, the Major-General's, Col. Carter's, Col. Buller's,
Col. Doyle's, Col. Holdippe's, and Col. " Humphere's," amounting
to 2,194 well, 2,310 sick, and 172 women and children. | p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 40.]
1656.
Jan. 15. 241. Order of the Council of State. That it be referred to the
Whitehall. Commissioners of the Admiralt}' and Navy to take order for the
transportation of Mary Ramsey arid her two children and two
servants to Jamaica, and to allow them diet which was also ordered
106
COLONIAL PAPEKS.
Jan. 18.
Whitehall.
Jan. 21.
Jamaica.
1656.
for other wives formerly sent to their husbands at Jamaica. Signed
by W. Jessop, Clerk of the Council. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 41.]
242. Order of the Council of State. Wm. Crispin, Robt. Wadeson,
and Thos. Broughton, Commissioners for Provisions for the Fleet and
Forces at Jamaica, having drawn on Rich. Hutchinson, Treasurer of
the Navy, for 340Z., for provisions delivered at Boston, New England,
for supplying said fleet and army, said bill is ordered to be accepted
and payment made. \ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 42.]
243. Account of stores remaining in the State's storehouse in
Jamaica for the Fleet under the Honble. Capt. Wm. Goodson,
Admiral. Also account of stores received from the carpenter, boat-
swain, and steward of the Marston Moor, and list of sails for the
Qrantham and (?) Selby. 9 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 43.]
Jan. 24. 244. W. Aylesbury to Robert Blackborne, Secretary to the Com-
TheMarmaduke m i ss j oners O f the Admiralty, Whitehall. Since the arrival of the
f Tam**stn \ 11
Marston Moor, 15th current, has had a sore fit of sickness and is
utterly unfit to write, otherwise has much to say of their condition.
All the Army endures proceeds from their own neglect : " never saw,
as to the general, men of such mean spirits ; having missed what they
aimed at at first, they regard neither their own nor public honor."
Is established Secretary in the place of Mr. Gary from the time of
his arrival, and has as much free converse with the Admiral and
Commissioner as if they had been bred together. Begs him to
communicate this to his cousin Dayrel (?). 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 32, No. 44.]
(Jamaica).
March 7.
Whitehall.
245. Order of the Council of State. That the report of the Com-
mittee of the Council on the accounts and demands of Capt.
Crispin, Robt. Wadeson, and Thos. Broughton, for provisions taken
up at New England for supply of the fleet and forces at Jamaica,
be referred to the Commissioners of the Navy to examine, and to
consider the prices and give account to the Council with all speed,
also to inform themselves how said provisions have been put
aboard the Falcon fly boat and the Adam and Eve and the Golden
Falcon have been disposed of to the end it may appear whether
they were delivered at Jamaica, and into whose charge. Signed by
W. Jessop, Clerk. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 45.]
March 8. 246. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy.
In pursuance of an order of his Highness's Council of 7th inst. that
the Commissioners for the Navy examine and state the accounts
and demands of Capt. Crispin, Rob. Wadeson, and Thos. Broughton,
and pursue the directions of the Council. Signed by Thos. Kelsey,
John Clerke, and Edw. Hopkins.
No. 46.]
p. [Col Papers, Vol. 32,
March 12. 247. Account of stores in the State's storehouse in Jamaica for
Jamaica. the service of the ships under the command of Capt. William
Goodson, Admiral, arranged in alphabetical order. Signed by
Rich, Rowe. 5 pp. [Col, Papers, Vol. 32, No. 47.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 107
1656.
March 12. 248. Capt. Mark Harrison, of the Gift, to the Commissioners of
Jamaica' the Admiralt y at " Whight Hall." Commanded by the Admiral,
Harbour. sends enclosed lists of his boatswain's, gunner's, and carpenter's
wants, the chief being sails, with which they were but meanly
fitted at their coming out. But there is one want more, without
which they are in poor capacity to make use of the rest, and that is
men. In the Dutch war the ship was allowed 130, and now but 80,
of which they usually have 15 sick and as many more on recovery,
" who are indeed very poor creatures," besides boys and trownsers,
so that both watches can hardly hand on topsails, or man two boats
in harbour. Encloses,
248. i.-in. List of carpenter's, gunner's, and boatswain's stores
wanting for the Gift. Signed by John Auger, George
Browning, and Wm. Noble, March 11,1656. 4 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 48, 48 I.-IIL]
March 13. 249. Vice-Admiral William Goodson to the Commissioners for
The Tomngton, the Admiralty. Before Genl. Penn's departure, a small vessel called
the Red Horse was taken off Hispaniola (by the Grantham), out of
which Capt. Lightfoot took 150 Spanish hides and put them
aboard Vice-Adml. Lawsou's dogger, which he says he did for
supply of the vessel, and that he would be accountable to their
Honors for it; he also took 25 hides out of the Spanish vessel
taken by Capt. Clarke and himself, for his own use. This has been
referred by a Council of War to their Honours. Two copies. $ p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 49, .501
March 13. 250. Capt. Ja. Tarry to the Commissioners for the Admiralty.
Jamaica. Gave account from Barbadoes of their proceedings thither : arrived
here February 8th ; the Marston Moor and Cardiff came before
them; the Lyon and Success 14 days after; have 25 men sick,
one drowned, and one dead since. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 51.]
March 13. 251. Capt. Za. Browne to same. Arrived in company with the
Aboard Lyon, 26th last. Touched at Nevis for water; the Governor in-
1 Jamaica?' f rme d hi m that the Lord Protector had ordered him to draw what
people he could from those " Weather Islands, ' and that 500 men
upon that island were ready to embark to leeward with their
families. Perceived a great willingness in many of them ; the
Governor being very inquisitive what shipping were making ready
for their transportation. Could only tell him great preparations
were making in England, but where designed it was not for him
to know. Have discharged their goods according to order. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 52.]
March 13. 252. Vice-Adm. Wm. Goodson to the Navy Commissioners.
Torrington, Sends duplicate of his letter by the Wildman on 26th Jan.,
Jamaice. s t a ting that he has had 5 ships lying for some time between Car-
thagena and Portobello, but that they took nothing; others however
off the island took 20 scattered Spanish men and women from
whom they have intelligence. There were but few of their number
left in the island and they were so sickly and in great want of
108 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1656.
necessaries that they dare not resist 50 English, but that when the
negroes found any English straggling in the woods they butchered
them with lances. That a vessel had arrived from Carthagena with
corn and wine, and had informed them that if they would all unite,
the Governor of Carthagena had resolved to send 1,000 men to
their assistance to beat the English off; but that was not credited
as there were not above 1,000 soldiers in the king's pay in the
towns and castles. Notwithstanding has sent the Arms of Holland,
the Cardiff, and other ships to prevent it. Has heard nothing of
the Spanish Fleet reported from England as designed for the Indies.
Has had all the ships left by Gen. Penn careened, except the Hound,
useless, and sends account of stores expected from New England.
The various crews went through great hardships through the
defective state of the provisions; is in great need of a recruit.
To be engaged for 4,8007. is a serious matter to one who never
before did the like for 100?., and unless he has some satisfaction or
is called home he will ultimately have to be in prison, and, if
removed by death before being heard, will leave a ruined family.
Received 3,1051. left by Gen. Penn and has spent 2,005?. 16s. Qd.,
thereof in paying the seamen's short allowance at 7d. per day each,
and other disbursements have reduced it to 797?. Us. and for which
he desires order. Capt. Willgress of the Falmouth has resigned his
commission rather than stand the trial of a court-martial for
swearing and drunkenness, and Lieut. Saunders, brother of Capt.
Saunders of the Dover, has been appointed in his room. Encloses,
252. I. Accounts and demands for provisions and stores. Two
copies. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 53, 53 f, 54.]
March 22. 253. Robert Dickenson to his cousin, Robert Blackborne, near
(Jamaica)? Whitehall. Received his of the 15th. Was glad to hear his letter
came opportunely to give him a true narrative of " that sad
tragedy." The murderer had a legal trial, was found guilty, and
executed 21st inst. and died very penitent, and most of all troubled
that he had killed one that had the good report of all ; the other
was acquitted. Major-Genl. Waley made a speech to the whole
Bench that neither my Lord Protector nor he countenanced any
such actions in the soldiers, and so left him to the law, which gained
him much credit, many imagining he would have interposed for his
freedom. " My aunt, your mother," gives many thanks for his
comfortable letter. She is still very sad, though she has many
causes of comfort. Presents his own, wife, and mother's services,
&c., to him and his wife, " with many thanks for my son." 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 55.]
April 3. 254. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy.
That in pursuance of an order of the Lord Protector and Council of
26th March, copy annexed, the Commissioners of the Navy make
out bills for the several sums therein mentioned due upon the bills
of exchange recited in said order as are not already accepted and
paid. Annexed,
254. I. The Order of the Council of State above mentioned.
Whitehall, 1656, March 26,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
109
1656.
April 19.
Holb[orn].
April 30.
On board the
Marmaduke,
Jamaica.
April 30.
Marmaduke,
Jamaica.
April 30.
Gift,
Jamaica.
254. II. Various mem. and figures referring to the above. Together,
6 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 56, 56 I., II.]
255. Mr. Jessop, to Robt. Blackborne, Secretary of Commissioners
of the Admiralty. Is commanded by the Lord Commissioner
Fiennes, and Gen. Desborow, to give notice to the Admiralty Com-
missioners that they have appointed next Monday to consider the
petition of Mr. De la Tour concerning the forts taken from the
French about Newfoundland, and as the accounts of Major Sedgwick
and Capt. Leverett concerning that business should be laid before
them, desires he will get them ready. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32,
No. 57.]
256. Capt. Wm. Godfrey, to the Commissioners for the Admiralty
and Navy. Has remained in Harbour ever since he arrived,
conceiving it is merely for the accommodation of Commissioner
Sedgwick who hath continued always on board. If he had his
choice would rather be cruising abroad in a small frigate than in a
great ship that will not turn to windward. She has 42 guns and is
poorly manned, there being as many gunners as seamen. Except
he receives a new supply of seamen we shall be hard put to it in
getting home. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 58.]
257. Capt. Wm. Godfrey to Robt. Blackborne. Sent account of
proceedings by the Grantham which sailed 14 March, as also of God's
goodness in stopping the raging fury of mortality in the Army which
is almost destroyed. If he may speak his thoughts, believes the
soldiers were much bound up with thoughts of their own strength,
not considering the power of God's ability, and with covetous
expectations of Indian treasure. As yet no planters are come down
to them, our soldiers are too much addicted to sloth, and would rather
famish than use means of preservation. A few days since a number
of them revolted, but most of them were retaken and three of the
ringleaders hanged. Most of the Spaniards have deserted the
Island and now and then we receive opposition from the negroes
and mulattoes who slew about 40 of our soldiers about a month
since. There is great want of seamen to supply the places of those
dead, and provisions are getting scarce, not having above 4 months
in the fleet. There are 11 sail
[Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 59.]
abroad with the Admiral.
pp.
258. Capt. Mark Harrison to the Admiralty and Navy Commis-
sioners. Sent account by his last of the condition and wants of his
ship, in stores and men, since which -his condition has been worse
through sickness and his few men have become children. The
Admiral has gone to Carthagena with 10 sail. The soldiers are
being employed by the Commissioners in planting, and it not being
relished by many, about 25 of them ran from their colours but were
retaken and some of them executed. A party of soldiers lately fell.
upon some negroes as they were in Council and killed eight, the
rest escaping save one woman, which is the first service they have
done upon the enemy since his arrival, and it is supposed they were
110
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1656.
April 30.
Indian,
Jamaica.
June 24.
Torrington,
Jamaica.
the negroes who killed so many of our men. There are 10 sail at
present in harbour. Two letters. Together, 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 32, Nos. 60, 61.]
259. Capt. Ja. Tarry to Robt. Blackborne. The frigates sailed
a month since intending something against a place called Realdy
Hatch. Last week 30 soldiers ran away but were retaken and
three hanged as an example. A party of soldiers also fell upon
some plantation negroes, killed eight and took a boy and a woman,
i p. [Col Papers, Vol. 32, No. 62.]
260. Vice-Admiral Wm. Goodson to the Admiralty Commissioners.
Received his letter with the three ships with provisions, some
good and some bad. Set sail 15 April with 10 of the best ships
for Hispaniola in hopes of meeting with some of the Spaniards, but
not encountering any stood for the main and landed upwards of 450
menatRio del Hacha. The people havingsix hours sight of us be fore
our arrival fled out of the town, carrying their wealth with them,
leaving only 12 men to secure a castle which our men stormed, and
in less than half and hour had possession of. There were four brass
ordnance of about 4,000 Ibs. each which we brought away, and
demolished part of the fort. Departed 8 May, being retarded a
day longer than we determined upon pretence of the Spanish
redemption of their town which upon their non-compliance we
burnt. Arrived 11 June at St. Martha, stayed to water until the
13th, and upon departing chased and took a small ship from St.
Luca with wine bound for Carthagena. Encloses copy of her cargo.
She reported that she set sail in company with the Nova Spania
Fleet of 28 sail on 29 February (10 March), four bound for Angola,
besides others to scattering ports in the Indies, and three Flemish
ships for St. Domingo which carried a new Governor and 500 soldiers.
Of those ships which came out for Nova Spania there were also four
galleons with four great merchantmen manned as galleons by the
King and others of smaller force, but meeting with a storm were
forced to bear for Cadiz. Has sent over the Captain, Sweetes, son
of a late English Merchant in Seville. Anchored 14 May in view of
Carthagena where were six ships, but not being able to do anything
upon them and having under consideration whether these ships
might not be intended for Jamaica made us desert the coast and
bend our course for Jamaica leaving the Admiral and two other
ships lying upon the coast to intercept any scattering ships that
might come thither. On the way took a small vessel bound from
Domingo for Nova Spain. Had advise of the arrival of the new
governor and 500 men, and that the ships of Nova Spain only stayed
to water at Porto Rico. Arrived there 23rd, and found Major Gen.
Sedgwick very sick, and he died the next day, he truly feared God,
was of singular use in this work, and generally beloved by the
soldiery. The Vice Admiral arrived 3 June from the other side.
The Portland and Falmouth also chased another on to a drowned
Island near Rio de Grand, and sent a boat on shore after her, but
she was staved all to pieces and the boat's crew had like to have
perished. Upon notice given from Governor Stokes of himself
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. Ill
1656.
and the people of Nevis their intention to transplant themselves
hither, dispatched three ships for their transport, and 4th June a
vessel arrived from the Governor with three gentlemen to treat with
us concerning shipping and to view the country. Afterwards
fitted out a small vessel to carry back our resolutions of sending
ships for about 1,000 people besides women, children, and servants.
The Marmaduke, Mary flyboat, and the Adam and Eve since sent,
and 14 others appointed to lie between Cape St. Antonio and the
Havana to encounter any ships from Carthagena, Nova Spain,
or elsewhere bound for the Havana, and others appointed to keep
this Port and to lie upon the Coast. Great complaints of the bread
sent over in old liquor casks by which the major part is spoiled and
the casks are generally so bad that much of the provisions and stores
have been damaged. Also great increase of vermin such as cock-
roaches, weevils, ants, earwigs, mites, and such like, and not sufficient
carpenters sent in the ships to do the necessary repairs and make
boats. Could wish it were considered the great deal of carpenters
work required in these parts, as also the disease and mortality
incident to men forced to work in the heat of the sun, that many
ships sent with old boats fitter for a carpenter's yard than a twelve
months' service. Capt. Hen. Harris died here on 30th May, has
appointed Capt. Bunn to accompany these. Has formerly given an
account of the ships required for these seas, which is a more ticklish
piece of navigation than is understood by most men, and sent from
80 to 100 prisoners in the ships to St. Christopher's for detention
until his Highness's pleasure is known, including five or six captains
of small forts taken. Hears from St. Domingo that they have about
26 or 30 prisoners, some officers kept close prisoners, the rest have
liberty to go up and down to work for bread. " Rec d 1 2 Sept.
1656." 3 pp. Incloses,
260. I. List of ships appointed to lie between Cape Antonio and
the Havana, also those to the windward of Jamaica.
Total No. 25. 1 p.
260. II. Surveys of the ships Convertive, Gloucester, Bear, Dover
Frigate, Mary flyboat, Torrington, and Welcome, signed
by the respective officers of each ship 1656, June 8-12.
Eight papers. 1 2 pp.
260. Ill, Account of stores remaining in the State's storehouse at
Jamaica. 1656, June 21. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, Nos. 63,
63 I.-IIL]
June 30. 261. Capt. Godfrey to Eobt. Blackborne, Secretary to Commis-
Marmaduke, sioners of the Admiralty. Is sorry to acquaint him that by the
iaica ' pale hand of death on 24 May they were deprived of Major-Gen.
Sedgvvick, and three days afterwards Capt. Leonard Harris, of the
Great Charity, was taken from them. Mortality has not yet left
off reigning here. Our perplexed condition much aggravated by
commotions and discords. Wishes the spirit of love were more
deeply stamped upon them. Our Admiral .and the rest of the ships
are come safe into harbour, also two small prizes. They took a
town called Rio del Hacha, without the loss of a man, it having
112
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1656.
July 10.
Aboard the
Lion, Cape
St. Anthony,
off Cuba.
only one fort mounted with 4 pieces of brass ordnance, which he
brought away, after firing the fort. Is going with some ships to
Nevis and St. Christopher's to fetch the Governor his lady, and
such planters as will come to Jamaica. Hopes before the voyage is
over they will have a fresh supply of ships and men. Endorsed :
" Rec. 12 Sept. 1656." 1 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 32, No. 64.]
262. Capt. John Lambert to Commissioners of the Admiralty
and Navy. In reply to their letter charging him with neglect
before he got to the Downs, sends copy of his journal from 21 Dec.
last, when he weighed anchor in the Hope, to 3rd Jan., when he
left the Lizard. Admiral Goodson sent him here, and with him are
the Indian Success, Dover, Selby, and Martin. Endorsed : " Rec.
12 Sept. 1656." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 1.]
July 14. 263. Vice- Admiral Goodson to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
Torrington, Refers to his last of 24 June [see ante No. 260]. Account of fourteen
110> ships sent to lye before Havana, The Arms of Holland blown
up, and only three men and the Captain saved, who were sent for
by the Captain of the Indian to dine with him not half-an-hour
before. The Laurel had her maintopmast shattered to pieces by a
clap of thunder, and her mainmast rendered unserviceable, and the
Dover has sprung her mainmast. Will be forced to send home the
ships that have been long in the country by advice of a council of
war, when he hopes they will provide some fitter person than himself
for his Highness' service in these parts. Endorsed ; " Duplicate
brought home by the Gloucester, 19 Oct. 1656." Encloses,
263. I. Account of cuckaw [cocoa ?] laden on board the Great
Charity, Capt. Thos. Bunn. Together, 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, Nos. 2, 2 L]
Aug. 7. 264. Kobt. Tillghman to Robt. Blackborne, at his house near
Scotland Yard. Cannot justify what he informed his Highness
concerning the Jamaica soldiers " being sould," so must be forced
to suffer my loss and scandalous speeches in Virginia, and lose
what estate he has left behind, and lay under the censure of those
whom he has most ambition to serve, or else be ruined by sad im-
prisonment. Married a widow of New England who was thought
to have a handsome estate clear of engagements, but since his
coming to England so many of his predecessor's cruel creditors have
fallen upon him that he is forced to keep his chamber, and though
we have proffered to let them have all they have they will be
satisfied with nothing but his ruin by imprisonment, when his
great hopes were to have been employed in his Highness' service in
the Indies, and where he- has been at sea and on shore for 4 years.
Desires his advice as to petitioning his Highness for a Protection
until he has cleared this Jamaica business, and that he will notice
that his greatest enemy is Capt. Wood's brother, who employed
Bolocke and sold the soldiers in Peauketaucke. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 3.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
Aug. 19.
On board the
1656.
Aug. 12. 265. Robt. Tilghman to Robt. Blackborne. Particulars of
[Received.] certain proceedings he took in the Court at Virginia against
Capt. Ruther for bringing certain soldiers there from Jamaica in
the Strong Rowland, now called the Virginia Merchant, Col.
Obedience Robins being Judge of the Court, who Tilghman de-
sired to swear and examine Capt. Potts and Mr. Doutye,
Col. Scarborough being present. Desires Thos. Price, who has come
over with him, may be examined. Endorsed : " Rec. 12 Aug.
1656." 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 4.]
266. Capt. Fras. Parke to Robt. Blackborne, Secretary to Ad-
miralty Commissioners. Has buried 24 men, and has 14 sick, and
provisions very bad and scant. Thirteen sail have been before
Havana 6 weeks, but Adm. Goodson has given a full account of all
passages. They have been very diligent in watching for the Plate
Fleet, but no success. The Nova Spania Fleet not yet come for
Havannah, and it is supposed will not do so this year. Has in-
telligence that 'the Catharine Fleet of 12 sail left Havana 13 July,
7 only bound for Spain. Hopes our Fleet on the coast will light
upon them. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 5.]
Aug. 20. 267. Matthew Clerke to [Robt. Blackborne]. Sends account
Marston Moor, O f medicines he has supplied as Surgeon General to 5 ships under
^dm. Qoodson. Sickness and indisposition of body, many times
accompanied with death, have been most men's insuperable com-
panions. Has had a large taste of sickness himself, which has
made him silent hitherto, but now desires instructions as to charging
for what he shall supply during the remainder of his stay, which
he desires may not be long. Encloses,
267. 1. List of the five ships supplied with medicines tor 9 to 15
months : Torrington, William Cattle, surgeon ; Gloucester,
Edw. West ; Laurel, Thos. Rook ; Dover, John Hillis, and
Portland, John Forrest, surgeon. Togetfier, 2 pp. [Gol.
Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 6, 6 I.]
Havannah.
Aug. 21.
Aboard the
268. Cornelius Cole, Purser, to the Navy Commissioners. Sends
two muster books, duly signed by the officers and himself. The
com P an y have been very sickly, but now are indifferently well
recovered. The ship in good condition, but provisions drawing
towards an end. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 7.]
Aug. 22. 269. Capt. Thos. Wilkes to the Commissioners for the Ad-
Aboardthe miralty. Has been with Adm. Goodson in expectation to have met
Gulf of Florida. * ne Spanish Fleet, but as yet they have missed them. If they do not
meet the Nova Spain Fleet in 8 or 10 days, has small hopes to see
them this year. After many deaths at present their men generally
well in health, some few excepted. The public suffer through the
badness of cask and bad victuals. It were well to allow ships
coming into these American seas 2 Mates to each Surgeon, 2
Coopers, 2 Armorers, and more Carpenters. Wine and vinegar to
make beverage with, agree better with the men's constitution than
brandy and water, especially those sick and weak. 1 p. [Col,
Papers, Vcl 33, No. 8,]
JT 7X843, U
114 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1656.
Aug. 23. 270. Vice-Admiral Goodson to the Commissioners for the Ad-
Aboard the miralty. Since his last of the 14th of July by the Charity (see ante,
^ponthe^oast N ' 263 ) we have lain at the Havana expecting the Nova Spania
of Cuba. fleet, but as yet no advice of them. Took a bark belonging to the
Havana on 3 Aug., but nothing in her. News that the ships from
Carthagena bound for Spain departed 13th June, three days before
our coming. Describes the ships, in all eight, which sailed for
Spain. If he had had timely advice should have sent a frigate to
General Penn. At a council of war on the 19th inst. it was
resolved that the Gloucester, Torrington, Dover, Portland, and
Laurel, be sent for England because of their "deficiency and
inability." Has embarked on board the Marston Moor with Capt.
Mynors. It is not safe to lye longer upon this coast than the end
of this month. In straits for victuals. Believes the soldiers will,
if it be possible, lay hold of the bread and peas expected from New
England. Forty Spanish seamen prisoners sent home, which is
safer than to put them ashore in these parts. Capt. Nuberry and
the Commanders with him will inform them fully of the state of
affairs. Endorsed, " Brought by the Gloucester." \\pp. Original
and duplicate. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 9, 10.]
Sept. 23. 271. Vice-Admiral Goodson to Commissioners for the Admiralty
Marston Moor. aiu i Navy. His last was of 23 Aug. (see preceding), by Captain
Nuberry who sailed homeward same day with four ships under
his "conduct." Extremity of wind and weather Las prevented
them attaining the island of Nevis. The bearer, Wm. Simons,
Master of the Peter of Bristol, advises that the Hope, Capt. Martin,
sent to New England, arrived at Barbadoes, and from thence
sailed to Jamaica; that he hath not heard of any ships from
England, but a report of eight sail fitting for Jamaica, and that
three ships had some time since arrived at Nevis, that the Governor
there had not only used all means possible to induce the people of
Nevis to transplant themselves [to Jamaica], but had gone to
St. Christopher's to draw what people he can from thence. Com-
plains of the quantity and quality of provisions sent, and the
destruction by vermin, their short allowance of liquors. Although
the Indies is understood to be a fair weather country it has much
destroyed their sails, of which there is a general want, also of
cordage and all sorts of carpenters' stores. 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 11.]
Sept. 23. 272. Duplicate of preceding, also that they arrived at Nevis
Marston Moor. V0 ad on 9th Oct., and have been embarking about 1,400 men,
women, and children, with their goods and servants, and intend
sailing [for Jamaica] 21st inst. Would be very glad to know their
pleasure concerning these heavy sailing Flemish ships unfit for the
Indies. Many of their men have had the scurvy, and some died.
Provisions exhausted. Since writing, the above has arrived, the
Hope well, Capt. Huitt, and the Lieut. -Col,, and the rest of the
people indiiferent well in health. They have not heard of General
Brayne and the ships which went with him for Ireland Finds no
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
115
1656.
Oct. 4.
Aboard the
Falcon,
Falmouth.
Oct. 10.
The Bear,
[Jamaica.]
Oct. 24
Torrington,
Dover Road.
Oct. 24
Dowus.
letters nor any bill of lading for eatable or drinkable goods. 19th'
20th Oct. 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 12.]
273. Capt. Thos. Fleete to Commissioners of the Admiralty. By
order of the Commissioners for the affairs of America, sailed from
Jamaica 2nd May last bound for Portsmouth in Old England, the
Church in company bound for New England to lade provisions and
return to Jamaica. Met with an extraordinary storm of wind, could
scarcely keep the ship above water ; she being so leaky, and their
bread and powder much damaged, were forced to make for Boston.
Had the ship surveyed and repairs performed in six weeks, and
loaded her with good masts. Set sail from Piscataway 27th August
for Portsmouth, but forced to put into this harbour. 1$ pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 13.]
274. Captains Jeffery Dare and Mark Harrison to [Commis-
sioners of the Admiralty]. Their last was by way of New England,
since when have had no intelligence of the Admiral. As to the
affairs of this island, through the industry of the army, no visible
enemy now appears except some few negroes. Intelligence from
Cuba that a boat had been twice at this island (of Jamaica) and
transported about two hundred Spaniards ; that there is a very
great mortality in Cuba, the like hath not been known for many
years, and that most of the Spaniards that fled are dead, and those
that survive are building forts, and casting brass guns for defence
of that island. Account of the condition of their own men and
provisions. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 14.]
275. Capt. Robt. Saunders to the Commissioners of the Admiralty.
Arrived before Havana 17 July, with 10 sail under the conduct of
Adm. Goodson, and 3 days before eight Spanish ships left bound for
the Groyne, in Galicia, and four for Carthagena, their Admiral, a
galleon of 28 guns. They came foul of the shoal going through the
Gulf when one of the galleons ran on board the Admiral and sunk
her, saving only 36 men. The other galleon struck off her rudder, but
gained a port near Porto Rico, and from thence went to Garth agna.
Had they taken Jamaica for Carthagena might have given a better
account of those 6 sail. Sailed from Havana 23 August in com-
pany with the Gloucester, Dover, Laurel, and Portland, leaving the
Admiral on board the Marston Moor, in company with the Lion and
6 others, he having resolved to stay there until the end of the
month. When in the lat. of 43, and the meridian of Newfound-
land, his bowsprit and foremast went by the board in a gale, since
which the Laurel has kept him company. 1 p. [Col. Papers t
Vol. 33, No. 15.]
276. Capt. Wm. Powell to Col. Clerke. Has little good to speak
of the proceedings at Jamaica ; they have had a very sad dispensa-
tion, and have wanted that comfort that the State allowed them.
Most of the provisions sent were layed on shore and rotted and
spoiled, whilst many poor souls perished for want, Has seen many a
116
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1C56.
poor soul languish and die of hunger by the wayside. Pride and
emulation amongst the Commanders, and not that unanimous love in
the fleet which ought to be in men. Those that sit at the helm would
do well to send out, not only a Joshua, but Joshuas. While in the
Indies, took and fired the city of Rio del Hacha, where only 10 men
were left. A parcel of Brazilletto, valued at 1,500?., and another of
hides, were found, but does not know how they were disposed of;
some of the wood, however, may be found in the ships that have
come here. Also took a vessel from Spain with wine, linen, and
serges. Experienced a grievous storm, and lost nearly all his masts,
and a thunder bolt coming into his ship killed one of the Quarter-
Masters, and did. much damage in the gun-room. Two letters.
Together, 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 16, 17.]
Nov. 18. 277. Warrants from the Council of State for Charles Rich to
transport forty horses to Barbadoes, also for Anthony Rous to
transport twenty geldings. [Dom., Interreg., /. 114, pp. 44, 46.]
1657.
Jan. 6.
Jamaica
Harbour.
278. Cornelius Burough to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
The last conveyance from this place was by a merchantman of
Bristol in October last, by which, in the absence of Admiral Goodson,
an account of their present condition was sent which he re-
capitulates. Some of the ships " gave very lame accounts " of
the stores sent by them, and accordingly prosecuted the Purser of
the Bear at a council of war, but the issue of the business was
referred till Admiral Goodson's arrival. Has since acquainted
Lieut.-Genl. Brayne, Admiral Goodson, and Col. Stokes, Governor
of Nevis, but the now important affairs hath impeded its pro-
secution. Certain ships have not answered their bills of lading.
Was left here by General Penn as Steward General in the room of
John Carter since deceased, " from which distracted employment
I have a long time breathed after a release and freedom." Has
desired General Brayne to let him go home to give the State
satisfaction and account of those vast supplies sent hither, but was
told he could not be spared, but an auditor would be appointed.
Is forced to look home and to the well-being of his near relations ;
" they receive little comfort in their lives without me, and less if
they receive nothing from me." Refers both them and himself to
their Honors' consideration, his salary now due is 2201. at Wl.
per month. Is here alive through mercy when thousands have
gone to the place of silence. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 18.]
Jan. 9. 279. Capt. Mark Harrison to Commissioners of the Navy.
On board the Desires they will sign the tickets that shall be presented to them
for himself and servants for about sixteen months. Arrival of
" part of those ships and soldiers from Ireland. The soldiers upon
the work of planting and will do well if the Lord gives them
health. They take their ground near this port to the east." Fears
the Lieutenant- General's body "will hardly broke (? brook) this
country." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 19.]
Gift, Tort
ilorunt.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES
117
Jan. 29.
Cagway,
Jamaica.
1657.
Jan. 27. 280. Cornelius Burough to Commissioners of the Admiralty
^Jamaica* 7 ' &n ^ Navy. In his last importuned for his pay, and stated an
auditor was appointed. They will receive an account of his pro-
ceedings from Admiral Goodson, also of the disposal of two prizes
brought in attested by Peter Pugh, appointed Auditor General, and
for which the General has discharged him from giving any further
account, or of two others. They will also receive account of the
charge of the Army to October last, but the distance of the Com-
missary is such that they cannot adjust accounts upon every oc-
casion, and there is also an account of ships left for England since
Gen. Penn went home. Having been absent from home since
coming forth with Gen. Penn, who left him behind in the room of
Jno. Carter, the General has desired him to audit his accounts, to
which he cheerfully submits, as any scruple can be ended here
better than in England, but will give a further account if required.
Hopes he will not be forgotten as regards his pa}', having no other
income, and. having been seconded by the General. 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 20.]
281. Lieut.-Gen. Brayne to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
Has desired Admiral Goodson to declare their wants, and to pro-
pose such things as are necessary for carrying on the work to the
best advantage to the State, that they may be provided with
victuals and stores and an able man or two to issue them, " whereby
the shipping may not be eaten with the worm by tying in the
harbour." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 21.]
282. Cornelius Burough to [Commissioners of the Admiralty].
Provisions hastening to an end. On 6 May arrived the Convertive,
Mathias, and Bear ; the Great Charity left in June. Neither the
Hope, Helpwell, Recovery, or Two Sisters answered their bills of
lading ; their defects made good by the Charity from New England
and two ketches. The 8 ships lately sent from hence victualled
for two months. In daily expectation of ships. Will receive by the
first his account fully audited. Begs his former desires, seconded
by the Lieutenant-General, may be considered not only as to his
pay but as to his stay here. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 22.]
March 13. 283. Order of the Commissioners for the Admiralty and Navy.
That the Commissioners for the Navy make out bills for the
amounts as per enclosed Order of the Council of State as are not
already accepted and paid. Signed by John Clerke, Ed. Salmon,
and Thos. Kelsey. Annexed,
283. i. The Order of the Council of State above referred to,
specifying the amount of each separate bill, the total
2,7371. 15s. lie?., with marginal notes to those already
paid. Whitehall, 1657, Feb. 19. Together, 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 23.]
April 26. 284. Cornelius Burough to [Robt. Blackborne ?]. Accounts sent
f the Bear> Unitv > D gg er > and Ostrich brigantine. The small fleet
with the Success departed hence about six days since. The Martin.
March 8.
118
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1657,
gone to Bermudas, thence to Barbadoes, whither the Chesnut ketch
is now going. The Blackamoor is at Port Morant, her appointed
station, the Gift and Selby on the north side, Paul, Grantham, and
Convertive at Point Pedro, all taking provisions. The Cagway, a
small frigate of ten guns brought by the Lieutenant-General, is
gone over to the main, so only the Indian and Lion in harbour.
Great loss of brandy on board the Bear. 1 p. [Col Paper*, Vol. 33,
No. 24.]
April 28. 285. Order of the Commissioners for the Admiralty and Navy.
That the tickets for several persons who served with the fleet at
Jamaica be referred to the Commissioners for the Navy, who are
to confer with. Vice-Admiral Goodson, and if found correct that
they take care for payment. Signed by John Disbrowe, John
Clerke, Robt. Beak. Annexed,
285. I. Petiton of several poor women whose husbands were
in the State's service at Jamaica. Pray they may receive
the wages due upon the tickets presented to the Commis-
sioners for the Navy, who refuse to sign them. With
certificate signed by Admiral Goodson of the truth of the
employment of the above. 1657, April 24. Together,
lpp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 25, 25 I.]
April 30. 286. List of the names of ships and vessels which served the
Commonwealth in Jamaica, the men of which when put aboard
them were discharged from the ships they did afore belong to. The
books of their entries and discharges remain in the hands of Corn.
Burough, Steward General at Jamaica. Signed by Wm. Goodson.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 26.]
June 2.
June 17.
Cagway.
July 23.
Whitehall
287. Proposals of Admiral Goodson concerning Jamaica pre-
sented to his Highness, 2 June 1657, by the Committee for the
affairs of Jamaica. In reference to the employment of certain
ships for the West Indies and other necessaries for the fleet and
army, such as stores, guns, victuals ; also for the better carrying
on his Highness's affairs there. 9 pp. [Gol. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 27.]
288. Lieut.-Gen. Brayne to Rich. Hutchinson, Treasurer of the
Navy. The necessity of the fleet and army induced him to give
instructions to Capt. Benj. Fermais of the Golden Falcon on his
arrival at New England to dispatch away two hundred tons of
provisions for those parts and to encourage those that adventured.
Promised them salt at 12s. a ton, who -immediately despatched two
ships, but cannot comply with them in point of salt which this
year, quite contrary to custom and expectation, proves very scarce ;
wherefore desires he will pay enclosed bill, 1,482Z. 12s. 9d. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 28.]
289. Order of the Council of State. That Gen. Disbrowe and
Mr. Secretary had this day attended his Highness who approved of
the Report of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 119
1657.
16th instant concerning the condition of the fleet at Jamaica and
the state of the island in respect of provisions ; and said Commis-
sioners are hereby empowered and required to call home such of
the eleven ships remaining with Lieut.-Gen. Brayne at Jamaica as
have been certified to be unfit for those seas and to give order
forthwith for fitting for sea service six nimble frigates to bear
750 men to be continued in those seas not above twelve months
and then to be relieved with the like number, two to be sent with
all convenient speed, two others within three months, and the rest
three months after that, and as any of the said frigates arrive at
Jamaica all there above the proposed number to be sent back ; that
a proportion of four thousand men's victuals for six months be sent
as a competent provision for them ; also that about 2.000Z. be sent
to the Commander-in-Chief to carry on such works and other
emergent services as necessity may require, and that 100 barrels of
powder and some great and small shot be sent, the Lord Protector
having only respect to securing the island and answering the
occasions thereof and to cruise on the Spanish coast to annoy
Spanish trade and not to attack the enemy's fleet in their passage
out and home. Signed by Henry Scobell, clerk. 3 pp. [Col
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 29.]
Aug. 8. 290. Lieut.-Gen. Wm. Brayne to Richard Hutchinson, Treasurei
Cagway, O f the Navy. The fleet and land forces being in imminent danger
amaica. Q s ^ arv j n g f or W ant of provisions was forced to agree with Capt.
James for as much salt turtle as his ship could bring at 3d. per lb.,
and he delivered 50,(jC3 Ibs., wherefore begs him pay enclosed bill for
632J. 10s. 3d 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 30.]
Sept. 15. 291. Bond of John Hook, late Assistant to the Commissary
General of Musters in Jamaica to pay Francis Sanders, of Chatham,
Kent, tailor, the sum of III. 19. lOd. Signed and sealed in the
presence of three witnesses. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 31.]
[Sept. 22.] 292. Petition of Capt. John Leverett to Oliver, Lord Protector.
Has received account of the delivery of the forts taken from the.
French in America by his Highness's order of 18 Sept. 1656 to Col.
Thos. Temple, together with account of disbursements and receipts
for his Highness's service in those forts from 10 Dec. 1656 to the
time of delivery according to Articles of Agreement with Col.
Temple, also invoices of stores and vessels, all which petitioner has
ready to present. Prays same may be audited and petitioner
receive what is justly due to him and a discharge. Annexed,
292. I. Order of the Council of State referring above petition to
Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy for their
report. Whitehall, 1657, Sept. 22.
292. II. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy
referring Capt. Leverett's accounts to the Commissioners
for the Navy for their report. 1657, Sept. 26. Togetfier,
3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 32, 32 i., n.]
120
COLONIAL PAPERS.
Feb. 12.
1658.
Feb. 2. 293. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy.
That the Commissioners for the Navy make out a bill for 43 14$.
drawn by Lieut.-Gen. Brayne to Thos. Hatton. Annexed,
293. I. Lieut.-Gen. Brayne to the Treasurer of the Navy. The
Two Brothers and Sapphire not yet arrived, and those
that have, do not answer their bills of lading, so is forced
at dear rates to supply their defects and to buy of New
England merchants trading hither to which end have
drawn bills of exchange upon him. Jamaica, Cagway
Point, 1657, Feb. 7. Together, 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, Nos. 33, 33 I.]
294. Order of the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy.
That in pursuance of the Order of the Council of State the Com-
missioners for the Navy make out a Bill to Vice- Admiral Goodson
for 400i. for his extraordinary service and expenses in the expe-
dition to America. Annexed,
294. I. Order of the Council of State above mentioned. General
Disbrow presents report of the Committee of Council on
petition of Vice- Admiral Goodson setting forth that his
Commission from General William Penn to command in
chief the sea forces in Jamaica was dated 20 June 1655,
said General departing 25 June, and that said Vice-
Admiral came from Jamaica, 31 Jan. 1657, and arrived in
England 26 April 1657, so his service amounted to 672
days. Ordered that 400Z. be paid to Vice- Admiral Goodson
as a gratuity for his extraordinary service and expense
during that time. 1658, Feb. 9. Together, 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 34-34 I.]
295. Minutes of a Council held by Col. Edward D'Oyley, Com-
mander-in-Chief, Col. Fras. Barrington, Col. Wm. Moore, and Col.
Sam. Barry. In reference to certain Dutch vessels seized by Capt.
Chris. Mings of the Marston Moor in his passage from England to
Jamaica by way of Barbadoes. That the Court of Admiralty in
Jamaica could not proceed to condemnation of said ships. That
said ships are prize to the Commonwealth by virtue of the Act for
increase of shipping and navigation, and that it was the duty of
Capt. Mings to make seizure of said ships. Certified Copy.
Annexed,
295. I. Survey of goods on board the four prizes above referred
to. That they are not of the growth or manufacture of
Holland. Jamaica, 1658, Feb. 24. Certified Copy.
Together, 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, Nos. 35, 35 I.]
1658.
Feb. 26. 296. Col. Edw. D'Oyley, Col. Fras. Barrington, and Capt. Christ.
[Jamaica.] Mings to Peter Pugh. Warrant to receive 2,572?. 17s. lld brought
over to Jamaica by Captain Christ. Mings by order of the Lord
Protector, to be paid over by Capt. Mings to such person as the
Commander-in- Chief, the eldest Colonel, and Capt. Mings shall
[Feb.]
Jamaica.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 121
1658.
nominate, to be issued out by such person upon such order as shall
be signed by any two of them for carrying on the fortifications of
the island. Certified Copy. Endorsed, " Note of 6 ships seized by
Capt. Mings at Barbadoes." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 36.]
March 2. 297. Capt. Christ. Myngs to [the Admiralty Commissioners].
Jamaica. Arrived at this port 20th ult. with three victualling ships (which
seasonably concurred with the want of provisions), as also with six
sail surprised at Barbadoes, which he lias given an account of to
the Commander-in-Chief, as also all writings and evidences con-
ducing to or against the interest of his Highness. Here were
summoned all the Colonels who debated all circumstances and heard
what could be said in defence by the masters of those ships here,
and have accordingly found them prize. However, they may see
the inconveniences accruing to a person that acts downright in his
duty, for if his superior here, whose orders he is to follow, refuses
to meddle in the ordering, securing, or disposal of these vessels,
although in his judgment and the Council's, the State's interest.it
may well startle any man's proceedings in surprisal of any ships
here where there is no power to try them, considering and rendering
accounts at such a distance, as between this and home may by
miscarriage and other inconveniences render things quite contrary
to themselves, so that what passes in a man's lifetime for a Spanish
mariner may be represented over his grave for an English
merchant.
Touching the present state of the islands, although his advice
may come short of better judgments, yet shall humbly give it which
principally depends upon transportation of people hither, for all
things here go well on, health stands, and every one very sensible
that the earth with the other elements doth as naturally contribute
here to increase as in other parts, and most find the advantage
conducing to settlement here to be more than have been in other
parts ; only two things impede peoples coming hither, one is a
suspicion they shall be under a martial authority and so incapable
of that law and government that is suitable to a settlement, the
second is the want of a steady and constant course for the trans-
porting of persons at such seasons of the year as render them fitting
by their crops, wherein the State's care reaching their necessities,
would at all such seasons bring down a freight of people hither, and
that bespeaks another which would beget a constant course of
peopling this island, and in case some such course be not taken, time
will leave all present endeavours here without executors and so
terminate and end on nothing. The vessels he brought hither
arrived to many conveniences of disposal as this opportunity of
being transmitted for England if it might have been thought
convenient, or otherwise disposed of here, here being divers
merchants ready to buy and some masters with credit to buy their
own ships or any other.
Proposed to the Commander-in-Chief a fair advantage of settling
this island and serving his Highness's interest, being four of these
ships very fitting for transportation of people and well fitted from
Holland, so as they might well endure the Indies some two years
122
COLONIAL PAPERS.
April 9.
Port Cagway,
Jamaica.
June 3.
1658.
All which vessels would be manned for such a purpose with 60 or
70 men, an inconsiderate charge considering the service, for these
vessels would carry more goods and passengers than twice the
squadron of frigates your Honors have allotted for this place ; but
the worm will eat, ships will decay, decks Avill leak, and goods be
damnified, especially what require present disposal. What he can
do either to security or preservation shall not be wanting. Sends
receipt for 2,5721. 17s. ll^d, with copy of the order according to
their directions. All affidavits, writings, and what else may conduce
to the condemning of these ships, are in the hands of Col. D'Oyley
here. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 37.]
298. Receipt of Captain John Wentworth for seven puncheons
of cocoa laden on board the State's ship Paul of Wm. Dalyson, to be
delivered to Robert Blackborne, Secretary to the Commissioners of
the Admiralty at Whitehall or his assigns. [Col. Papers, VoL-Sfy
No. 38.]
299. Order of Commissioners for the Admiralty and Navy for
the Commissioners of the Navy to make out a bill for 1,482?. 12s. 9d,
according to the tenor of the bill drawn by Lt.-Gen, Brayne at Jamaica
[for provisions bought in New England]. Signed by Ed. Salmon,
Thos. Kelsey, and Robt Beake. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 39.]
June 21. 300. Order of Commissioners for the Admiralty and Navy. That
the Commissioners for the Navy make out a bill to Capt. Wm.
James for 632?. 10s. 3d, being the value supplied by him in provisions
at Jamaica according to the tenor of the bill drawn by Lt.-Gen.
Brayne. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 40.]
July 3. 301. Order of Commissioners for the Admiralty and Navy.
Having received advice from the Commander-in-Chief at Jamaica
that there is a want of pitch, leather scuppers, small cordage, canvas,
and twine instead of sails for furnishing the ships there, the Com-
missioners of the Navy are directed to send such a proportion of
said stores as is requisite by the Diamond and Chestnut ketch,
having a respect to the provisions last sent thither. Signed by Ed.
Salmon, John Clerke, and Tho. Kelsey. ^ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 41.]
302. Order of the Council of State. That it be referred to the
Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy, to take order for trans-
porting to Jamaica such wives o? officers and soldiers now at
Jamaica as shall be certified to ttem by the Committee for his
Highness's affairs in America, to have real intention to transport
themselves to their husbands at Jamaica also the children of such
wives. Signed by W. Jessop, Clerk of the Council. p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 42.]
July 15. 303. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Commissioners of
Jamaica, the Admiralty]. The ships in his Highness's service here are
the Marston Moor, Granthain, Cagway, Blackamoore, Hector,
Pearl, and Dolphin, with upwards of 650 men, all in good
July 8.
Whitehall.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 123
1658,
health. Three were slain in their late expedition to Rio Nuevo.
Their stay abroad was near six weeks, the soldiers about 700,
who made a great hole in the stores. Reasons why he cannot
give an account of how long the stores will last. What are sent
should be distinguished so much for the army and so much for the
fleet. The soldiers think it a hard matter to have less than the
seamen. Allowance to soldiers ; the stores for the fleet and troop
of horse will last till December next ; for the whole army in
general one month. The enemy in all probability will attempt
again. Hears a reducement of the army is intended. If new
forces come as regiments, of which he fears there will be need, they
must go into woods as others have done before, and, their hearts
being down at the first coming, provide not so conveniently for
themselves and provisions which causeth sickness to themselves,
embezzlement and damage to their provisions which is put ashore
with them. It is to be considered whether they had not better
come as recruits whereby the quarters of the army will be
strengthened, and the new comers will go where the woods are
opened and amongst those that are in a way of living which will
be encouragement to them. Has been an eye witness to the death
of so many and of those inconveniences he has intimated. There is
one want more which is one in his room. Has a four years
account to pass, impossible to do here. Humbly prays he may be
considered, and if he must stay that he may have instructions what
to do as to accounts. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 43.]
July 16. 304. Capt. Wm. Dalyson to his cousin Robt. Blackborne,
Point Cagway, Secretary to the Admiralty Commissioners. Hopes his last by the
amaica. p au i } Q a pt. John Wentworth, has come to hand with his small
adventure of cocoa, which, if it comes to the market, is informed it
will make him a clear man in the world and in a better condition
than ever. God has blessed them with a second victory over the
Spaniards, giving them a total rout, killing about 300, six captains
prisoners, some private soldiers, ten colours, the Royal Standard, a
great quantity of provisions, all their ammunition and arms, with
six great guns. Lost about sixty men, whereof four captains,
Captain Wiseman, Captain of the Horse, Captain Mears, Captain
Walker, and Captain Robinson. Hopes to write to his parents by
the next. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 44.]
July 16. 305. Cornelius Burough to [Robt. Blackborne, Secretary to
Jamaica. Admiralty Commissioners]. This comes by the Martin to com-
municate our good news which he desires may be kept from the
press, well knowing the Com mander-in- Chief sends a fuller
account. Several letters of private persons here have been
inserted in the weekly prints " which is judged to be popularity and
a matter of great often ce here." Has seen a great deal of bloody
work in his time both by land and sea, but never saw any action
carried on with so much cheerfulness and sweet carriage as this
was, the Commander-in-Chief, Colonel D'Oyley, telling the soldiers
that a great deal of England's honour lay at stake, and therefore
hoped they would consider it and carry themselves according^
124
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1658.
July 16.
[Jamaica.]
Aug. 5.
Jamaica.
going himself from party to party, and following the rear of the
forlorn in a very signal habit. His gallant behaviour was answered
both by officers and soldiers with a silent cheerful obedience, and
through God's gracious goodness there was found such a joint
unanimous willingness to the work that the truth is it was of God
and it hath exceedingly endeared us one to another since we came
here. Understands by letters from England several duels have
been fought and more threatened concerning Throgmorton's
business. Account of his serious discourse with the Commander-in-
Chief about it, and what took place the night before Throgmorton's
execution. Col. Barrington sent for to find a way to " prevent his
blood," and Mr. Ailesbury importuning for his life ; but in that
juncture of iime came a protest from Major Throgmorton with
many false and scandalous charges, and a great party in the army
siding with him, the officers could not see any hopes of future peace
if he were spared, which led all jointly to sign and seal the warrant
for his execution. Col. Barrington told Burough that altho'
there was an ugly face put upon the business and a great deal of
clamour about it, yet the business was so foul and there was so
much in it that he could not be spared with safety. Thanks be to
God we have now no differences amongst us, but are all at peace.
Hopes some encouraging letters are on the way for Mr. Dallyson
from his father, the want of which has caused him to shed many a
tear. Hopes his own time draws to an end for he is quite weary]
Hears the Dutch begin to grumble, hopes God will not leave
England now. Hears from Spanish prisoners that the Indians are
in arms at Lima. No plate gone from these parts to Spain since
the news of the loss of their ships by Gen. Blake. Endorsed,
" The Martin arrived at Portsmouth 4th Oct. 1658." 2 pp.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 45.]
306. Certificate by Cornelius Burough of the services of Capt.
Kempo Sibada for about three years and a half. He was invited
by order of Commissary Gregory Butler into the service of the
State at Antigua, then went to St. Christopher's with his ship and
crew where he was entertained by General Penn, pilot on board the
Swiftsure after Commander of the Hunter, and in the State's
service in Jamaica ever since. And now finding old age creeping
apace upon him, and urgent occasions to go for his own country, has
the General's leave to depart for England where he desires to
receive his pay, and is newly returned from the late expedition to
Rio Nuevo. ~Also, Certificate from Col. Edward D'Oyley that Capt.
Sibada has been a very diligent and faithful man and done good
service and hopes he will find respect suitable. Also, Statement of
monies paid to him on account. 3J pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 46.]
307. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Commis-
sioners]. Account of Capt. Wm. Burough's proceedings on board the
Martin before he sailed with respect to muster of soldiers on board
and tickets given to seamen whether ordinary or able. The full
detection of these things was not until ten or eleven at night, and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
125
1658.
Nov. 28.
Jamaica.
at break of day the ship sailed, and letters all writ and sealed so
could not then inform ; " neither should I now, but that I fear my
silence might render me concerned in the cheat, he being of my
name and the business lying in my way." The bearer, Col. Moore,
will tell the whole business. They have certain intelligence that 25
Spanish ships are come to Carthagena. Cannot imagine they have
any design upon us. If we should meet with any opportunity of
testifying our affections to our country we should be glad, and you
may be assured the people here would die man by man rather than
to accept of any conditions though never so honorable. We are
but weak, yet in an ordinary way of Providence we are able to
withstand a greater force than Spain can send to encounter us.
Endorsed, "Rec. by Col. Moore 2 Nov. 1658." 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, -No. 47.]
308. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Com-
missioners]. Both fleet and army and the whole island in great
health, " it being now as strange for a man to die as formerly to
live." Planting increases much. Two sugar mills grinding canes,
clearing cocoa walks, and planting cotton, "now also much intended."
Necessity of servants. Stores almost spent, occasioned by enter-
tainment of soldiers on board the fleets in two expeditions, one to
Rio Nuebo with 700 men, equal to the number of the fleet for six
weeks, and 300 men in the late expedition to find out the Spanish
fleet ten weeks. If they had not pinched the army the fleet and
garrison on the island must have been starved. In Gen. Brayne's
time about 1,OOOZ. in provisions was lent to Nevis planters settled
on Port Morant, they being in great want, conditionally on being
paid again. Has moved the General [D'Oyley] herein, but he says
as it was in General Brayne's time he is not free to meddle with it,
for he says those planters quartered 400 men a week when they
went to Rio Nuebo. In great want of barge and wherry. As to
his return, but for his accounts, is content to tarry here, where he
had laid the foundation of his future dependencies. Ships remain-
ing in the country: Marsfon Moor, Hector, Coventry, Blackamoor,
and Cagway, to which 557 men belong, only 11 sick and 5 men
deceased the past 3 months. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 48.]
Nov. 30. 309. Capt. John Aylett to Commissioners for the Admiralty
^Aboard thc^ an d Navy. Soon after his arrival was ordered to the coast of
Cagway Harbour Carthagena to their fleet of five sail to wait for the Spanish fleet
Jamaica, 'which they passed through, being twenty-nine sail of stout ships and
galleons, " in regard of our impoteccy we could do no good on them."
Have taken and burnt a town called Traloo and two ships in the
road ; afterwards sailed for St. Mark, marched twelve miles into the
country, and burnt and destroyed all as we went ; stayed three days
and returned to Jamaica. Movements of the Spanish fleet in all
three score and odd sail. Are now fitting for some other design,
but cannot stir until victuals sirrive from England. 1 p. [Col,
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 49.]
126
COLONIAL PAPERS.
Jamaica.
1658.
Dec. 2. 310. Wm. Dalyson to [his cousin Robt. Blackborne, Secretary to
Gag way, Admiralty Commissioners]. Questions not he has received the cocoa
sent by Capt. John Wentworth in the Paul [see ante, No. 304], and
hopes it will discharge his debts, which, if he could accomplish,
should think himself the happiest man living. Hopes to get a
dividend of a small prize taken upon the main laden with cocoa.
After waiting ten weeks for the Spanish fleet, went through them
and fired some guns which they hear killed ten men and shot off the
Captain's legs of one of the galleons ; they are a very strong fleet
gone for the Havanna ; in very good condition for health, but want
provisions. Very narrow escape of Capt. Burough when coming
from Capt. Barrington's quarters being assaulted by ten Spaniards,
who lanced one of his men and killed his horse. A bag of supposed
ambergris in the chest sent to him. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 50.]
1659.
Jan. 30.
Port Mprant,
Jamaica.
Jan. 31.
Jamaica.
311. Capt. Christopher Myng to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
At his first arrival brought into this port certain vessels surprised
at Barbadoes trading there contrary to the Act of Parliament. At
a convention of the Colonels of the Army they were judged lawful
prize, but the power of condemnation disputed. The Commissioners
will receive the affidavits concerning these vessels, and the reasons
he now gives for their surprisal, viz. : The Charity, Geo. Prince,
master ; the Mary, Hopewell, Hellibrand, John Baptist, and Estrich.
Requests orders for the disposal of these vessels and taking them
out of his hands lest time and ruin leave nothing of them. 2 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 51.]
312. An abstract of the officers and soldiers residing upon the
island of Jamaica, according to the last Muster Rolls transmitted
from thence bearing date the 31 January 1658[-9]. Total, 2,041,
which include 4 Colonels, 3 Lieutenant-Colonels, 4 Majors, and
24 Captains, 2 Chaplains and 7 Surgeons, and a troop of horse of
70 men. Examined per Hodges. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. S3,
No. 52.]
Feb. 2. 313. Win. Dalyson to [his cousin Robt. Blackborne, Secretary to
PortCapray, Admiralty Commissioners]. Is bound for New England on an
undertaking he hopes will prove satisfactory, to put off certain
goods and bring back those they stand in need of, the General
having freely given him leave. An assistant left in his room by
Mr. Burough. This is a very dear place, and his salary will hardly
maintain him. Has interwoven his fortunes in this undertaking
with Mr. Burough, and Capt. Myng and others have examined the
business and well approve of it, part being to buy plank and
board to finish our fort in this Point. Has acquainted his father
and mother ; all in good health, and the plantations thrive mightily.
Endorsed, " Rec. per Blackamoor, 26 June 1659." 1 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 53.]
April 20. 314. Certificate of William Houlding that Ralph Dod and Wm,
Monke, two soldiers from Scotland brought over by Gen, Brayne,
Jamaica.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
127
1659.
April 23.
Jamaica.
April 24.
Jamaica.
June 5.
Jamaica.
were put on shore from the Grantham at Jamaica, where they
remained until after his death, and then went again on board said
ship, but being soldiers belonging to the garrison the General could
not admit of their coming away, and therefore were discharged.
p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 54.]
315. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Com-
missioners]. Sends Dalyson's letter [see ante, No. 313], which states
his reasons for going to New England. Capts. Myng and Lloyd,
with whom they consulted, said it was a warrantable business and
an opening of trade between New England and Jamaica. Prizes
brought in by the Diamond, Marston Moor, Hector, and Cagway,
" an abundance of wealth " plundered from the enemy at Comino
and Cora, valued at 200,000?. and better. Capt. Myng says they
have brought with them 50,000?. in coined money besides plate,
rings, and jewels. The seamen broke into the hold of one of the
prizes, a Dutch vessel, and fought and took ten or fifteen thousand
pounds. Would not have the success to be mistaken, for though
they are a terror to the enemy yet there is but little advantage to
the island save only the spending of their money. " This action,
if the naked circumstances were laid down, it would exceed your
belief. Doubtless we may say to our enemy, as Hamon's wife said
to him, if they be of the seed of the Jews they will prevail against
thee, so say I, if we are the people that God will own there are
strong presumptions that we shall be their masters. . . . Our
spirits are now raised, and I hope God will go on to bless us."
Is very much afflicted with weakness in his eyes, contracted here
by cold and sitting up late in the night. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 55.]
316. Cornelius Burough to [Admiralty Commissioners]. Sends
this by the Blackmore. Respecting the measure of brandy sent a
year ago by the Francis and Mary, and his accounts for provisions
by Capt. John Wilgresse of the Blackmore of 43,122 Ibs. of tortoise,
commonly called here turtle, brought into this harbour by Capt.
James in Lt.-Gen. Brayne's time, but sent to Barbadoes where it
was put off for sugar. Arrival yesterday of the Marston Moor,
Hector, and Cagway, which have been abroad well nigh four months.
In this expedition they have burnt Coro and Comina, two rich
towns on the main, and taken two Dutch ships under Spanish
colours which resisted them. It is thought that the whole pillage
amounts to 300,000?., though has not yet had time to examine par-
ticulars ; about 300 of the army on board have got plentifulry.
These affairs will contribute abundantly to the advance of this island,
and enable many officers who have planted beyond their ability to
go through. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 54a.]
317. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Commis-
sioners]. Writes by the Marston Moor, the Captain [Myng] goes
" to England in suspense," the General's letter will explain.
Finding no power to try and condemn the Dutch prizes he seized,
he was so far unhinged and out of tune that he was less serviceable
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1659.
June 7.
Jamaica.
June 9.
Jamaica.
than otherwise he might have been. Is free from any bitterness,
malice, or evil intcndment to him notwithstanding upon his
suspension he clearly imagined Burough had been a principal
author and abettor of his misfortune. If he mentions ought
against Burough that he be required to put in his positive charges.
It were preposterous to anticipate an answer as he knows of no
just ground for anything. The whole matter is before him.
Knows no man will repine at his success if Captain Myng be
acquitted " most sure I am, I am in no ways guilty of his illf or-
tune." 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 55a.]
318. Lieut-General D'Oyley to [Admiralty Commissioners]. By
advice of a Council of "War, has sent home the Marston Moor, their
victuals being spent, and a time of year to get turtle at Caimanos.
Has sent home the Captain suspended for disobeying his orders
and plundering the hold of one of the prizes of 12,000 pieces of
eight. This carriage too unhandsome and contradictory, and too
distasteful to the other officers of the fleet that he thought not fit
to try him here. Some others to blame whom he is almost afraid
to send to sea, for all they meet, friends or foes, suffer little or
much, the officers generally countenancing them so that the ships
brought from Barbadoes were so notoriously plundered that if they
had belonged to the State he could not have received them.
There has been a constant market aboard the Marston Moor
without any control. The Captain and some others allege it is
customary to plunder and break holds, and urge Sir Rich. Stainer
and Capt. Jeffreys for precedents who have done the same un-
rebuked, but rather countenanced. There were twenty-two chests
of the King of Spain's silver which Capt. Myng stood by and saw
divided, having a chest delivered to him and the Major, and not
any preserved for the State. The cocoa delivered to Capt. Burougli,
the Steward-General, some sold, the rest given to the soldiers, and
very acceptable. Two of the ships sold by inch of candle for four
hundred odd pounds, the other, a good new ship fitted as a man-of-
war, 35QL being offered though worth 1,0002. Fitted her with
stores belonging to Mr. Beckford. Has sent home some prisoners,
merchants, not being able to exchange them. Jacob Hunter, mid-
shipman of the Marston Moor, sent in the Pearl with ten seamen
and six landsmen to cruise, taken by the Spaniards. 1 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 56.]
319. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Commis-
sioners]. Are at low-water mark as to provisions, the nipple is
squeezed. We are once a year straitened in this manner. Gives
account of their necessities, as formerly ; often in suspense whether
a greater offence to write or be silent. Planting prospers exceed-
ingly well ; forwarded much by Capt. Myng's late success. " Not a
man on the island but can say he hath reaped a benefit by that
action." The cry was 300,000?., as he has mentioned ; Capt. Myng
believed there was 500,000?. in money. Believes the General
mentioned in his letter 400,000?. ; a great deal scattered amongst
them. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 57.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
129
1659.
June 10.
Jamaica.
June 14.
[Jamaica.]
Aug. 31.
Barbadoes.
Sept. 3.
Whitehall.
Nevis.
1060.
.';m. 19.
Jutnaica.
y 72848.
320. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Commis-
sioners]. Refers to his letter by the Blackamore concerning
Mr. Dalyson going for New England [see ante, No. 315]. Respect-
ing his difference with Capt. Myng which is but six days old, as
" matter of astonishment to me, so wonder to all others." Details his
visit aboard the Marston Moor with Col. Francis Barrington, when
Capt. Myng broke forth into extreme passion, calling Burough
rogue and rascal, who told him he was but 31 years old, and had
been nine years at sea, and had the management of an estate, wife,
and children, but Myng replied he meant as to the State, so
thought it best to petition lest his words be made use of. Justifies
all his actions. The General has as yet no Commission delayed by
his Highness's death, but would not give free consent to the writer's
return. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 58.]
321. Cornelius Burough to [Secretary to Admiralty Commis-
sioners]. The violent weather has delayed the Marston Moor's
departure 4 or 5 days. Yesterday a ship from Amsterdam brought
Mr. Sommers from Barbadoes with news of Mr. Dalyson who
went on the Black Lion bound for New England in company
with seven others for Virginia, Barbadoes, &c. Account of their
voyage. John Gosling will inform him of the whole matter. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 59.]
322. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. " It is the judgment
of the Assembly, and it is hereby by them declared, that all
patents formerly obtained from Oliver or Richard, late protectors
for any offices within this island (except for the government
thereof) be utterly void and null, and the Assembly desire the
Governor and Council's concurrence hereto, and that the same be
published in the parish churches as usual publications are." p.
[Col Entry Book 11, p. 12.]
323. Warrant from the Council of State to Gualter Frost. On
report of Committee of Council for the Affairs of Jamaica, and in
pursuance of an Order of this Council of 18 Aug. last, to pay
Francis Hodges 544. 14s. H^c?., for the wives of the officers ami
soldiers in Jamaica one month's pay, to the widows of those who
died or were slain in said service one-fourth part due to them, and
to the relations of said officers and soldiers that are poorest 105.
out of said sum, according to directions from Lieut.-Cols. Andrews
and Miller. p. [Dom. Interreg., I. 107, p. 118.]
324. " An Act intituled Public Worship, &c." 1 p. [Col Entry
Book 49, p. 5.]
325. Cornelius Burough to Robt. Blackborne. Cannot com-
municate to him the grief and discontent he has laid to his heart
upon hearing Capt. Myng's calumniations. Has reflected on his
poor mother whose letter went as a dagger to his heart to think
that when she expected to have heard answerable tidings of joy
and comfort she should, on the contrary, hear such a bitter outcry
130 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1660.
against him. " This, this, Sir, has wounded my very soul." The
procuring him 200?., and adventuring his credit in Burough's
business is an exceeding trouble to him, but has yet hope his
innocence will clear him, and that Blackborne shall have no cause
to repent his charity. His mother will wait upon Blackborne,
and his letter will show to what use he has employed the 7,000?.
sent home. Calls God to witness he has not in all the world in the
hands of any person directly or indirectly the value of 200?. Has
laid in this island the foundation of a good estate ; but were all his
concernments together as they cost him they would not amount to
above 1,400?., whereof two-thirds are here in plantation, house, and
stock. The bearer, Capt. Lloyd, has promised to deliver an
ingenious account of several passages, a breach between Lloyd and
Dalyson, occasioned through Lloyd's importunity for a larger
quantity of stores than could be spared. " If we should humour
all captains with what they would have, we must deny both our
reason and duty. Has written to the Commissioners of the
Admiralty. Wishes him happiness and prosperity in these black
dismal days. 3 pp. Endorsed, " Reed, by the Black Diamond."
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 60.]
Jan. 19. 326. Cornelius Burough to Robt. Blackborne. Mr. Dalyson
and himself have no .quarrel save what arose from their employ-
ment, so no cause of remembrance of any grudge. Knows not who
are now in power. We are here just like you at home ; when we
heard of the Lord Protector's death we proclaimed his son, when
we heard of his being turned out we proclaimed a Parliament, and
now own a Committee of Safety. " Sir Walter Raleigh in his
preface puts the question : Have you heard of the Pharoahs and
Ptolemeys of Egypt of the great palace of Susan, and of the great
city of Nineveh of whom there is now not a stone upon a stone,
and I may go further to look on the late desolation in Germany,
Ireland, and Scotland, how hath God turned upside down those
nations ; England's .sins are greater because they know more, and I
am half afraid I desire you not to think I insinuate into you upon
the account of religion (a most wicked cheat in this age), I practise
more than I profess, and the miscarriages of others are stumbling
blocks to others. Profession of religion makes people suspected to
be knaves." Most of the people here in any eminent employment
are the children of very good parents, whose prayers have prevailed
with God for their sakes, and we have said it forty times we are
blessed for their sakes. Hopes his letter to Lady Dalyson came to
hand. Capt. Wilgress reported in London we were all drunk at
proclaiming the Protector. Assures him the General himself and
others did break company on purpose to show the people they
knew how to limit the bounds of mirth. Endorsed, " Rec.
20 March 1659-60, by the Diamond." 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 61.]
Jan. 20. 327. Cornelius Burough to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
Jamaica. Assures them they shall find more moderation in what he has written
than they met with when Capt. Myng made his relation, but
AMEKICA AND WEST INDIES. 131
1660.
though no charge exhibited against him, that which invites him to
speak is twofold, viz. : to give them some satisfaction in this
business, and the other not to be guilty of murdering his own good
name by his silence, as he hears from several gentlemen in England
the Commissioners have entertained a great deal of prejudice
against him, " it is impossible a pen from hence can answer his
nimble tongue." Answers two of the most material passages he is
charged with. Intreats them not to let the follies of his youth
exasperate them against him ; there is no reason for them to
remember what God hath forgot. Desires their Honors to make
examination of the business when " the composure of the dis-
tractions of England will admit of entertaining a thought of us,"
and if he be found guiltless, that he may have satisfaction of what
those owe him whose pay has been stopped at home by the Com-
missioners of the Navy. Has sent home some of the men to the
intent they may be examined. Capt. Myng has reported to their
Honors that the General sent home 10,000?., and himself 7,000?.
This is just like the account he gave of his prizes ; he told the
General and himself he had taken 50,000?. in money, and there
were hundreds of thousands besides. The tyranny of his affairs
caused him to suspect the ruin of his family from the non-con-
demnation of the prizes here, and their Honors not answering the
General's letter sent home in that behalf made him a little trouble-
some ; Capt. Myng's offer to sell his jewels and to take Burough's
bond. Capt. Lloyd, an honest gentleman, expects a great deal more
fair quarter from him than from many others that have gone
home, ' they coming hither have so much English blood in their
faces that they think we have none left in our hearts " Is sorry
the General's name is in conjunction with his own, " as it adds to
me it detracts from him," he hath deserved very much from the
State. Admiral Goodson told Major-Gen. Kelsey that the General
was worth 10,000?., and not 10?. when he left us. The only differ-
ence in the complaints that have gone home against the General
and himself and against Admiral Goodson is that they have got
more money. The issue is short, to give account of what they
have received. 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 83, No. 62.]
Jan. 23. 328. Capt. Win. Dalyson to his cousin Robt B!ackborne.
Jamaica. Hopes he received his from New England, and the full account of
his voyage and safe arrival here. Understands it was reported in
London he was lost. Two ships arrived from London, but not any
news from him or any friends. Hopes Capt. Myng's detracting
speeches have not gained belief. Gives " a hint concerning Capt.
Lloyd " in reference to his demand for canvas and flying into a
very great passion of abuseful words, and that he would do my
business at home. Related the whole story to the General, " who
wondered I did not beat him in presence of Capt. Burough and
many other officers." Capt. Burough exceedingly troubled for fear
Blackborne should have ill-will against him. Verily believes if
the General were at home to answer for himself Capt. Myng would
be found no better than he is, a proud speaking vain fool, and a
knave in cheating the State and robbing merchants. Has sent
II
132
COLONIAL CAPERS.
1G60.
Jan. 24.
Jamaica.
home in the Diamond 5,000 Ibs. of cocoa, consigned to Capt.
Beckford, of whom, if he will take the money that will pay all just
demands, when Dalyson will account himself the happiest person
living. Col. Francis Praington (?) going up to his quarters was
unfortunately shot by a trooper and only lived about three or four
hours, there will be a great miss of him. 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 63.]
329. Col. Edw. D'Oyley to Commissioners of the Admiralty and
Navy. Refers to his letter as " an unseasonable bewailing the
Protector's death, though there was cause enough as appears by the
effects." Has made a hard shift to keep the seamen alive these five
months, selling whatever they could spare to buy them provisions,
" which course admits of much scandal to myself and the Steward
General (Capt. Burough) by such here who know not that we have
masters who will exact a strict account of all our actings, which
time we wish would approach, until when you will not find how
honestly, faithfully, and frugally you have been dealt withal
here." Finds by the distractions at home little hope of provisions,
so has se*nt home the Diamond frigate, and must lay up here all
the rest unless they can victual themselves home. Though like to
be ill rewarded, as he finds by the credit and impunity of calum-
niators, shall not fail in that duty he owes his country in general,
though knows not to whom in particular. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 64.]
330. Cornelius Burough to Robt. Blackborne. Wrote by the
Diamond, dispatched three days hence, these go by the Hector.
Knows not what place his letters will take. Prays him to be
satisfied, not a bit of dirt will stick on Burough. Wishes to be
satisfied that the Lieutenant of the Marston Moor delivered his
papers. Dalyson is a very industrious, thriving, and indeed a very
honest man. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 65.]
Jan. 31. 331. Capt. Wm. Dalyson ,to Robt. Blackborne. Has advised
Port Cagway, the sending of 5,000 Ibs. of cocoa by the Diamond. Begs him to
take of Capt. Beckford what may satisfy Daly son's debts and then
fears not to pick up a living in the world. Hopes to send more
home in the Providence. Last week a party with Lieut.-Col.
Tyson went out to seek the negroes ; came to their plantation, and
three of the chief came to Port Cagway to wait on the General.
Our party remained with the rest, with whom questions not but
they shall agree very well ; they are to bring their wives and
children to remain with us for conditions. Major Fairfax gone
with another party to make conditions with them. They promise
to carry our men to the Spanish Governor's quarters and to bring
him in. Are now so intermixed with them and have possession of
all their provisions that should they offer to go back we can with
ease destroy them, which doth much encourage our people to
planting and doubtless may invite many from the Windward
Islands when once they may settle to work without fear of {in
enemy. Has set up his home here for some years and fears not
Jan. 27.
Jamaica.
Jamaica.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
133
1660.
Feb. 1.
Jamaica.
Feb. 6.
Whitehall.
but to do well. Is very sorry Capt. Myng should so prevail upon
men at home, but doubts not he will be found out and prove
himself a rash dishonest man. Is sure were Capt. Burough and
the General at home, Myng would not have a word to say. It is
very strange the ship he brought from Barbadoes should belong
neither to the States nor merchants, but that he and his officers
should pocket 4,000. or 5,000. sterling. Commends the bearer
Capt. Robt. Hay Tubd (?). 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 66.]
332. Col. Edward D'Oyley to Commissioners of the Admiralty.
Reasons for his having given license but not order for the return
home of the Hector. If the sending home the frigates be contrary
to instructions or the loss of this place, is confident God will acquit
him though he may be overborne by the power of men. The want
of shoes and all things necessary for soldiers has this summer
given such heart to the negroes that they have done more mischief
than in the past two years, having snatched away a captain, two
ensigns, and divers soldiers, and killed others, which hath necessi-
tated him to set an impost on strong liquors which has had the
good success of finding out where the negroes have lurked these
four years undiscovered who have built a town and planted about
200 acres of provisions ; is now in parley with them and doubts
not a good issue. The unexpectedness of this mercy makes him
hope they may receive a better account of this unhappy design
and place than in human probability could be expected. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 67.]
333. The Council of * State to the Governor and Council of
Barbadoes. Have received his letter of 8th September last giving
account of their submission to the Parliament and resolution of
continuing their faithfulness and obedience which is very well
accepted. Suppose they some time since heard of the late inter-
ruption given to the Parliament in their councils and sittings, but
withal judge it probable that before this comes to their hands they
will hear of their freedom and restitution to the exercise of their
trust which was brought about in such a day as bore signal testi-
mony of God's presence with them, and owning of them, and did
eminently denote the lifting up of his arm against those that
would have imposed them before the interruption given. The
Parliament applied themselves to those Councils which might most
directly lead to peace and settlement as far as the difficulties
wherewith they were obstructed through the various revolutions of
Government which intervened after their first disturbance would
permit, and since their constitution they have carried on their
former purposes whereof you may take some measure by their
late declaration in which you may read the fixedness of their
thoughts to carry on the great and public ends of peace and
establishment upon a foundation of righteousness, the first whereof
they hope the whole Commonwealth and yourselves as members
thereof will in due time reap, and therefore our advice is that you
firmly adhere to your preferred resolution as that wherein you will
make best provision for yourselves and the Island where Govern-
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1660.
merit is entrusted you. In the pursuing whereof they may rest
assured of all due encouragement from hence, and the rather
because it is acknowledged the honour and interest of the nation is
much concerned in the freedom, plenty, and flourishing estate of the
plantations abroad amongst which they deserve not the least
esteem and value. Shall add no more at present but to invite
them upon all occasions to represent to the Council their just
desires, whereupon the Council shall not be wanting to do what
may most conduce to the advantage and advancement of their
colony and the trade thereof in ways consistent with the good of
the whole, wishing them to be specially careful of the interest of
God and due encouragement of godly men amongst them whereby
they will in a more special manner engage the blessing and pro-
tection of God, and more oblige our respect towards you and the
whole plantation. [Dom. Interregnum, I. 99, pp. 35, 3(5.]
Feb. 22. 334. Capt. Wm. Dalyson to Robt. Blackborne. Wrote fully
Port Cagway, by the Diamond and Hector, and has sent 12,400 Ibs. of cocoa
Jamaica. wn j c ij ne j s certain will yield a far greater sum than he is engaged
for. His expenses greater than formerly by reason he gets no
allowance from the State. Refers to the clamour and railings of
several people sent from hence against some here. Thinks Capt.
Ayliett, Commander of the Coventry, will be the next to go home ;
the General forced to suspend him but has since restored him to
his command, who has again given himself over to debauchery and
drunkenness, and he stands indicted for burglary for stealing 81.
out of a chest, but is not prosecuted by reason of the alterations in
England our Court of Judicature is put down. His own en-
couragement in the State's service is very small. A line from his
father would be a great comfort, he grows ancient and causes him
to think he shall never see him ; earnestly begs Blackbourne to
procure him a letter. Lost a great friend in General Sedgwick.
Has sent him a pot of their island sugar for his morning draughts.
\0n same sheet. Cornelius Burough to R. Blackbourne. In hourly
expectation of the issue of a party now gone forth in conjunction
with some negroes that have lately, and indeed miraculously, made
peace with us. Is almost ashamed to have Dalyson write home
such stuff about Capt. Ayliett, and yet there is just necessity for
he might have written ten times as much and not exceeded the
truth. 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 68.]
April 10. 335. Cornelius Burough to Robt. Blackborne. " That which I
Jamaica, feared has come to pass and is no small trouble to me," for he has
not received any letter and concludes " you have entertained dis-
taste against me." Dalyson is much troubled he hears nothing from
his friends and will be suddenly at home. The distractions in Eng-
land have influence here, and we are the more patient to bear our.
sorrows because of the calamities God hath made England the head.
Are at peace and quiet here after a succession of sorrows, the
enemy having proffered their friendship and delivered up twelve
hostages to make good their promise; and they, with our men,
routed and destroyed two settlements of other negroes and then
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 135
1660.
took them to the Spanish camp where of about 140 we killed and
took about 80. Desire of the Spanish Governor for peace. In-
telligence that a bark would arrive with relief from Cuba, which
was trepanned and fell into their hands, and the Spaniards " not
dreaming of the cheat" were surprised by our men who lay in
ambush. About four days since another settlement was destroyed
where 30 negroes were taken. "Though the number of these
was inconsiderable yet their advantages were so great that it is
God's mercy a man of our regiment was left alive." A little
additional help would do well. Few here desire to stay, neither
can we subsist upon the terms we are upon. Expect daily a recruit
of the enemy. Lady Dalyson's son will come suddenly and desire
her blessing by word of mouth. 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 69.] .
April 10. 336. Cornelius Burough to the Clerk of the Survey at Deptford.
Jamaica. This is by the Hound, a prize ship entertained here in the service
of the Commonwealth of England, but cannot keep her here for
want of victuals. He may by this guess their condition. He will
find how far Capt. Myng stretched in alleging this ship to be
Burough's ; 'tis true he brought her by inch of candle, but the
price was so low it was judged convenient to entertain her in the
service of the State. "Rec d of Mr. Turner, 4 Sept. 1660." 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 70.]
April J 1. 337. Capt. Wm. Dalyson to [Robt Blackborne]. Is not a little
Port Cagway, troubled not to receive a line from any of his friends. Has sent
amaica. ^QQO Ibs. of cocoa by the Hound, and hopes to come himself by
the next ship, the General having given him leave, by reason there
are not any stores worth any man's care, and the uncertainty of his
salary. God hath blessed their design against the enemy, there
being very few left. Nicholas Evans, gunner, will give account of
great abuses done him by Capt. Rich. Pearie, the gunner is one of
Mr. Brooks' church. Hopes to see his parents this summer. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 71.]
April 24. 338. Order of the Council of State. Referring petition of divers
Whitehall, merchants, seamen, and others trading to the West Indies con-
cerning the future government and management of affairs of
Jamaica to the Committee for Foreign Plantations, who are desired
to confer with the Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy how
they may be carried on with most advantage to the State, and how
the ships intended hither may be best employed to that end ;
Mr. Bovey, Secretary for Foreign Plantations, to give his assistance.
Signed by W. Jessop, Clerk of the Council. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 72.]
April 27. 339. Order of Committee of Council for Plantations on petition
of John Treworgy, Commander of the Colony of this Nation in
Newfoundland. That it be referred to Mr. Povey, Secretary for
Foreign Plantations, to state the matter of fact and the several
interests and titles, and what may be expedient to be done there
13G
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1CGO,
April,
May 11.
Whitehall.
May 15.
Whitehall.
May 17.
Whitehall.
May 19.
Whitehall.
May 27,
Jamaica.
for the advantage of the State, and report same to this Committee.
Also to advise with Commissioners of Admiralty and Navy about
shipping for assisting and securing the fishing trade for the season.
Also to confer about Capt. Watts' propositions concerning Jamaica.
Signed by Sam. Hartlib, Clerk to said Committee. 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 73.]
340. " Proposals touching Jamaica." By General Penn's
command gives account of the state of affairs in Jamaica. The
island cannot be preserved for the English unless the harbour of
Cagway be made capable of defending the ships, being the chief
port, and the fortifications begun be completed. The want of
provisions preventing the Army drawing together, they being
quartered at a hundred miles distance, and not one day's provisions
in store. Two months' provisions would enable them to oppose
any army of the enemy. Necessity of small boats to finish the
fort and expeditiously transport the soldiers upon an alarm.
Immediate necessity for provisions for 1,800 soldiers and 300
sailors, and for good plying frigates. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 74.]
341. Order of the Council of State. To permit Mary Tyson to
repair to her husband Lieut.-Col. Edward Tyson, in Jamaica, in the
ship Bear now bound thither, with accommodation for two maid
servants and one man servant. Signed by Jo. Rush worth, Clerk
of the Council. p. [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 75.]
342. Order of the Council of State. That it l>e referred to the
Commissioners of the Admiralty and Navy to accommodate
Mrs. Elizabeth Archbald and servants with necessary provisions
usually allowed to passengers to Jamaica on her voyage to her
husband there. p. Signed by Jo. Rushworth, Clerk of the
Council. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 76.]
343. Order of the Council of State. That the Commissioners
of the Admiralty and Navy be desired forthwith to dispatch away
the ships bound to Jamaica. Signed by Jo. Rushworth, Clerk of
the Council. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 77.]
344. Order of the Council of State. That petition of Col.
Samuel Barry, praying for an order to transport ten servants to
Jamaica for his plantation, be referred to Commissioners of Ad-
miralty and Navy. Signed by Jo. Rushworth, Clerk of the Council.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 78.]
345. Cornelius Burough to [Commissioners of the Admiralty].
Encloses accounts of the ship Pearl, Cagway, and Chesnut, the two
former entertained in the State's service here. Capt. Daniel
Heeling, the Commander, is a better Captain than Purser, and knows
better how to wade thro' the difficulty and danger of the one than
the intricacy of the other. If Capt. Myng be as equally believed
in the commendation of Capt. Heeling as he hath been in the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 137
1660.
defamation of Burougb, Keeling will not then need an advocate.
Only one ship more left, the Coventry frigate. " The enemy in
our bowels, to whom our lives have been a prey, and many men
have been subjected to their mercy (I mean the negroes) are now
become our bloodhounds, and we are daily making depredations on
them, and they are in our behalf more violent and fierce against
their fellows than we possibly can be." Annexed,
345. I. The accounts above referred to, of stores and provisions
furnished by Cornelius Burough, Steward General, to
Capt. Dan. Heeling for the ships Chesnut, Pearl, and
Cagway. Jamaica, 1660, May 25.
345. II. Receipt of the warrant officers of the Chesnut for Si. 10s.
received on account of their pay from Cornelius Burough.
Jamaica, 1 660, May 27.
345. III. Certificate of C. Burough of the mistake of a year in
the service of Geo. Douglas, of the ship Cagway, enter-
tained in the State's service from 16 March 1656[-7].
Jamaica, 1060, May 26. Together, 6 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, Nos. 79, 79 i., IL, in.]
May ? 346. Petition of James Neale to the King. For an answer to
his request presented at Breda, when the reply was that his
Majesty would grant no places till his return to England, but
would then consider him. Annexed,
346. I. Petition of James Neale to the King. For the office of
Treasurer of Virginia, void by the death of Jerome
Hawley. He and his father lost blood and estate in his
Majesty's service, and now joyfully expect his speedy
restitution. With order thereon. [Dora. Ghas. II., Vol. 1,
No. 132.]
July. 347. Grant to Francis Carr of the office of Provost Marshall
General in Barbadoes. [Dora. Chas. IL, Docquet Bk., p. 13.]
August. 348. Grant to John Dawes of the office of Secretary and Clerk
of the Courts in Barbadoes during life. [Dora. Ghas. IL, Docquet
Bk., p. 37.]
Oct. 17. 349. Proposal for a Commission to empower Daniel Searle,
Governor of Barbadoes, Owen Martin, and Humphry Seaward,
merchants, and Clement Everard, Governor of St. Christopher's
to call to account the Commissioners for Prize Goods on said
islands, and said Martin and Seaward to proceed against them for
recovery thereof ; of which goods they shall ship home the full
half part, consigning it for the King's use to Mr. Loving, one of the
tellers of Her Majesty's Exchequer ; and said Martin and Seaward to
be allowed the other half for their discovery and pains, "in respect
of the interest therein he intends to Col. Veele, who hath both
faithfully served him and his royal father." With note from
Thos. Earl of Southampton to Sec. Nicholas, that his Majesty is
pleased that letters be written to the governors of both islands, to
138 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1660.
said effect. "A true copie examd." 1 pp. Said letters were
signed by the King, 10 Dec. 1660, and the Attorney-General was
directed to prepare the Commissions asked for. See Col. Gal.,
1 661-1668, pp. 68, 69, Nos. 213, 214. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 80.]
Nov. I 350. Petition of John Cole, Master of the May Flower, of
London, bound for "Virginia, to the Council. For leave to transport
100 passengers and provisions for their use, and that of the
plantation. Annexed,
350. I. Note of the provisions required for the 'aforesaid ship.
[Dom. Chas. II., Vol. 22, No. 141.]
Nov. I 351. Petition of John Clark and Henry Harlinge to the King.
For Letters Patent to keep a Register Office for all servants and
children to be transported to Virginia and Barbadoes, to which
office all shall be brought under penalty, to declare their willingness
to go, in order to prevent the abuses of forcible transportation of
persons without their own or their parent's consent. [Dom.
Chas. 11., Vol. 22, p. 138.]
[Dec. 1.] 352. Instructions for the Council appointed for Foreign Planta-
tions. Duplicate of paper in first volume of Col. Calendar,
pp. 492, No. 59 I., but indorsed by Williamson. Earl of Sandwich,
Lord Arlington, Sir Thos. Overbury, Sir Ralph Verney, Mr. Gray,
Col. Lynch, Dennis Nonsuch, and J. Williamson. 5 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 81.]
[Dec. 18.] 353. Report of his Majesty's Commissioners for the Affairs of
Tangiers to whom the intended despatch for Jamaica was referred.
Advising that 1,000 firelocks, 50 cases of holster-pistols, 50 saddles
with their furniture, and 2 hhds. of flints ready fitted be sent
thither. In Sec. Williamson's handwriting. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 82 ; also Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 27, p. 297.]
Dec. 27. 354. Act of the Assembly of Nevis in obedience to an Act of
Nevis. Parliament forbidding all strangers and foreigners and their ships
to export commodities of this island. Signed by James Russell,
Governor; John Proctor, Capts. Randall Russell, Mich. Smith,
Robert Trewethin, David Howell,. Fra. Kaynell, and Lt. Daniel
Kanhather of the Council ; and Capt. Tho. Fitzjames, Lts. Roger
Earle and Richard Halse, Thomas Ayson, Lts. Willm. Howard,
Willm. Childs, Albinus West, and George Gardiner, John Abbott,
senr., and John Cade. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk, No. 49, pp. 11
and 12.]
Pec. 355. Grant to Lord Willoughby of Parham, his executors and
assigns, of all such prize ships, ordnance, furniture, ammunition,
tackle and goods, and all the proceeds thereof, as have been seized
at sea or on land near the islands of Barbadoes, St. Christopher's,
or other the Caribbee Islands since the beginning of 1645. [Dom.
Chas. II., Docquet Bk., p. 66.]
AMERICA. AND WEST INDIES. 139
1660.
356. Petition of Edmond Cowse to the King. That on account
of his loyalty he has endured sundry crosses and persecutions to
Ms great ruin. And whereas the clerkship of the common pleas
in Barbadoes is vacant, prays for a grant of same. " B. Hoare
scripsit 1660." [Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 83.]
1660?
357. Petition of Robt. Nedham to the King. That he has
constantly performed his duty to his Majesty in all the late
changes, and being proscribed by that tyrant Cromwell made his
escape. Prays the King to confer upon him the estate of Constans
Sylvester in Barbadoes, forfeited by being a foreigner. " This
man, by birth a Dutchman, by profession an Anabaptist, was
employed by those of that sect in Amsterdam to follow their trade
in those parts, in which trust he cheated his employers, behaved
himself dishonestly towards all, was a professed enemy to your
Majesty's cause, and a great asserter of the rumps. He has neither
wife nor children which may suffer by his just punishment, and it
is not only mine but the petition of the whole island to have him
extirpated." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 84.]
358. Proposition of Mr. Stroud about mines in Jamaica. For
3 men if entered as soldiers at 51. per man, 15J. For tools to work,
and several other necessary utensils, 20?. For his expense in this
affair, 100Z. \ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 85 ; see also Col. Entry
Bk., Vol. 27, p. 301.]
359. Proposals of P. Lynch to the Lords of the Council con-
cerning Jamaica affairs. That provisions and supplies be sent to
the 2 fourth rate ships now at Jamaica ; that the amount of stores
and ammunition for this ship be fixed this week ; that 2,000.
deducted from the ammunition, would help to finish the fort at
Cagway, and do more service that way; that the possibility of
defending the town, harbour, and island be considered, "there
being never a tenable fort ;" and that a further Commission for
the command of the army and fleet, and fuller instructions " how
to transact with the Spaniards," be sent to Lt.-Colonel D'Oylev.
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 86 ; also Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 27,
p. 299.]
360. Petition of John Man, Merchant to the King. That he
has lately arrived from Jamaica, in the settlement whereof he has
been instrumental, and desires to return with merchandize and
servants to be further assisting in the planting. Has for many
years studied mathematics, and practised the art of surveying land ;
and understanding that a gentleman totally ignorant of mathematics
intended to petition for the office, prays his Majesty grant of
Letters Patent for the office of Surveyor General of the Island of
Jamaica. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 87.] In January 1661
there is the docquet of a grant to John Man, of the office of
Surveyor General in Jamaica, see Col. Cal., 1661-1668, p. 4,
No. 14.]
140 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1661.
Jan, 26, 361. Grant for the government of his Majesty's people in New-
foundland and on the seas adjoining. Recites his lute Majesty's
Letters Patent of 10th Feb. and confirms the same. That any
man killing another or stealing to the value of 40s. be arrested,
brought to England, and delivered to the Earl Marshal ; no ballast
or prestones to be thrown into the harbours ; no person to destroy
any stage or cookroom, but to fetch timber out of the woods for
repairs ; and the ship first entering to be Admiral of the harbour.
Regulations against any ship reserving more of the beach than
needful, to the prejudice of others ; defacing the marks on boats
or train fata to defraud the right owners; purloining fish, salt;
setting fire to the woods, or rinding trees for any other uses except
covering the roofs of cookrooms, which shall not exceed 16 feet in
length ; casting anchors or aught hurtful to the hauling of seines
for bait ; and stealing bait, nets. No person to set up a tavern for
selling wine, beer, strong waters, cider, or tobacco, by which the
fishermen are debauched, neglect their labours, spend their shares
on which the maintenance of their families depends, and other
disorders. Divine service to be said on Sundays by some of the
Masters or others from the Book of Common Prayer. And further,
his Majesty straitly forbids all owners of fishing ships to carry to
Newfoundland any other persons than are of their own or other
ship's Companies, or on their hire, or that intend to plant or settle
there. That speedy punishment be inflicted upon offenders against
the laws his Majesty ordains as formerly ordained by his late
Majesty [in his Grant of IS Nov. 1637 to James Marq. of Hamilton,
Phil. Earl of Pembroke, Henry Earl of Holland, and Sir David
Kirke, see First Vol. of this Gal., p. 260], that the Mayors of
Southampton, Weymouth and Melcombe Regis, Lyme, Plymouth,
Dartmouth, Eastlowe, Foy, and Barnstaple take cognizance of
complaints of such offences and punish the delinquents by fine
and imprisonment ; Vice-Admirals in Southampton, Dorset, Devon,
and Cornwall to proceed against all offences committed at sea.
These presents to be proclaimed by the Admiral in every harbour
this next season, and also on shore. [Pat. Roll 12, Chas. II.,
pt. 17, No. 30.]
Feb. ? 362. Petition of Jeremiah, Nathaniel, and Simeon Bonnell,
Edward Bernard, and Thomas Rastall, of London, Merchants, to
the King. Petitioners formerly had a grant of land at Morant, in
Jamaica, for the settlement of which they spent 1,500. ; but
through the absence of Mr. Povey, Commissary of the Army in
those parts, to whom it was entrusted, all the stock and improve-
ments are lost. Pray for letters to the Commander-in-Chief there
to confirm to them and their Attorney, Captain Butler, all their
former grants. Endorsed, " Ref. Com. Trade." 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 88.]
Feb.? 363. Another petition of the above-named persons to the King.
That they find Povey converts all to his own use and gives occasion
for all merchants to adventure no more for the settlement of new
colonies. Pray that their grants of land in Jamaica may be con.-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 141
1661.
firmed, that Capt. Gregory Butler may be possessed of their rights,
and that he may have passage with twenty English servants in one
of the King's ships bound for Jamaica. [On 18 Feb. 1661 this
petition was referred to a Committee, who were directed to draw
up an address to the King asking leave accordingly, see Col. Cal.,
1661-1668, p. 11, No. 32.] 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 89.]
March ? 364. Petition of Major William Clayton to the King. That his
actings and sufferings are not altogether unknown to his Majesty.
Is utterly destitute of any employment, and has not yet tasted the
King's bounty in any particular. Confident that he may do his
Majesty good service in Jamaica, as in the annexed proposals will
appear, prays for the Government of the Island. Annexed,
364. I. Proposals of Major William Clayton and friends for the
improvement of his Majesty's interest in Jamaica. His
Majesty has been put to the expense of 30,000. in st-tting
out 4 ships to Jamaica ; that he constitute Major Clayton
Governor of the island, and loan him 3 or 4 ships
which he and his friends will victual and man at their
own cost. They propose to transport one thousand ser-
vants to be formed into a regiment, well officered and
disciplined, and maintained at the charge of the adven-
turers ; and this regiment, being settled in a plantation
district, may be looked upon as a standing strength of the
island, whilst the officers, being advisedly chosen, may be
a means of bringing the island to a better conformity
with the Church of England, and prevent its becoming
no better than a nursery for schism and faction, as the
plantations of New England " too sad an experiment have
so unhappily done." The soldiers in the King's pay may
in some short time be maintained " as in other plantations
by a poll rate." Major Clayton by his knowledge of
physic, and the temperature and diet of the Indies, hopes
also to render the island more healthy, especially the
northern part. [Lord Berkeley presented the above pro-
posals to the Council for Foreign Plantations, icho desired
Major Clayton to attend on 1 April 16G1, see Col. Cal.,
1661-1668,' p. 10, No. 56.] 2 pp~ [Col Papers, Vol. 33,
Nos. 90, 91.]
365. The King's license for Richard Anguish, Clerk, to travel
for three years for the purpose of visiting Montserrat and settling
his estate there, whither during the late distractions in England ho
had been forced to retire. Draft, with corrections, in Williamson's
handwriting. [This probably refers to Richard Angus, ivho was
Secretary in Montserrat in Sept. 1664, see Col. Cal., 1661-1668,
p. 235, No. 804 IL] 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 92.]
1662?
366. Petition of Sir Edward Ford, Knt. [of Harting, Sussex],
to the King. That the Government of the Bermudas is enjoyed
by a small number of tradesmen who have incorporated themselves,
142 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1662?
under pretence of a Charter depending upon the old vacated
Charter of Virginia, and usurped sovereignty over his Majesty's
subjects there. Prays for a grant of Governor which is in the
Royal Prerogative. See also Petition of Capt. Trafford to be
appointed Governor, Col. Gal, 1661-1668, p. Ill, No. 372. En-
dorsed by Williamson, "Sir Edw. Ford." 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 93.]
1662.
April 16 367. Certificate of the Governor and Company of the City of London
1663. for Plantation of the Somers Islands. In obedience to his Majesty's
April 9. command they have collected from their Books of Record, Entries,
and Register an account and survey of all lands, houses, plantations,
and possessions of Owen Rowe, Cornelius Holland, and Sir John
Danvers in said islands in the year 1648, or since, and find that
Owen Rowe in 1648 possessed 4 shares, and bought 1 in 1664
(sic), two of which were passed over to others in 1649 and 1658 ;
that Cornelius Holland in 1648 possessed 4 shares, bought of
Francis Meverell, which were decreed to Humphry Meverell in
1658; that Sir John Danvers possessed in 1648 12 shares, which
were sold by Lady Grace Danvers, his widow, in 1659, to Nathaniel
Smith, Merchant Taylor of London, for 270?. There are also other
transfers signed by John Heydon, Deputy Governor, 16th April 1662.
With further certificate that, 15th May 1662, information w;is re-
ceived that Cornelius Holland had besides 2 shares in Paget's
Tribe, for which he regularly received the rents, but it could not
be learned of whom he purchased them. Signed by John Heydon,
Deputy, 9th April 1663. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 94.]
1662-63. 368. Account of the general lands belonging to the Somers
Islands Compy., taken out of Richard Norwood's survey book by
him made in the years 1662, 1663 (printed in Lefroy's Memoriau
of the Bermudas, Vol. II., pp. 646-655). With note that the lands
in the Somers Islands are divided by Mr. Norwood's book, and at
their being first set out into eight tribes, viz., Hamilton, Smith's,
Devonshire, Pembroke, Paget's, Warwick, Southampton, and Sandys
Tribes, each of which contains 50 shares of 25 acres each, or 1,25(
acres, except the last which contains 1,268 odd acres. There is
also a summary of the common, public, and unappropriated lands,
amounting to 83 shares, and a statement by Ri. Banner, Secretary to
the Company, dated Augfr. 4, 1684, that he cannot give so par-
ticular an account of the present distribution of these shares ; but
there is none of them but are applied to some public use in the
Island, and the Company have not diverted them, nor aliened any
of them to any private person or use. Endorsed, " Rec d from
M r . Banner, Secy, to the Company 25 Sept. 1684." [This latter
portion is printed at length ( from another document) in Lefroy's
Memorials of the Bermudas, II., 655-717.] 13 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 95.]
1664. 369. The King to Sir Chas. Lyttelton, Deputy Governor of
March ? Jamaica. License to return home by the first convenient passage.
To make prudent provision for the government of the island that
the King's affairs be not prejudiced. [On 1 Feb., Sir Chas,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 143
1664
Lyttelton asked leave to return for his health's sake and other
personal affairs. He left Jamaica, 2 May 1664, see Col. Cal. t
1661-1 6Q8,pp. 184, 240, Nos. 650 and 814.] "Draft with corrections
by Williamson, 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 96.]
1664 ? 370. Petition of Marina Hunlock, relict of Col. Mitchell, to the
King. For His Majesty's letters to the King of Spain for restoring
the Virgin Pink, freighted by petitioner's late husband, who served
in Jamaica under Lord Windsor her brother, which ship was
captured by an Ostend man-of-war on Feb. 1, 1663, and is de-
tained at Pontebreda in Spain ; and for the release of Capt. Swadle
and Edward Bray, her servant. [Col. Wm. Mitchell died about
March 16G4, see Col Cal, 1661-1668, p. 104, No. 690.] 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 33, No. 97.]
1664
to 371. A large folio M.S. volume of 433 pages containing abstracts
1765. of the record of all grants of land in New York from the first
establishment of the Colony in 1664 to the end of the administration
of Lieut.-Gov. Delancey in 1760, and from 1761 to 1765, wherein
is specified the names of the grantees, the date of the grant, the
quantity granted, where the quantity is expressed in the grant
and the quit-rent where any is reserved. Divided into ten
counties, a certiHcate signed by Geo. Banyan, Deputy Secretary,
being appended at the end of each county.
The city and county of New York is comprised in 81 pages, and
the first grant by Govr. Nicolls is to Elizabeth Tyse of a house ;md
tenement, dated 26 Feb. 1665[-6] ; the county of Richmond has
fifty pages, the first grant by Govr. Nicolls of 500 acres on the
south part of Staten Island is to Capt. Wm. Hill, dated 4 Oct. 1604;
King's County has twenty-four pages, and the first grant is to
Elbert Elbertsen of a parcel of land on the western part of Long
Island, dated 1 Nov. 1667. Queen's County contains seventeen
pages, and the first grant is to John Richball of a parcel of land on
the north side of Long Island, dated 10 Dec. 1665. The county of
Suffolk has also seventeen pages, the first grant being to David
Gardiner of an island on Long Island by the Indians called
Manchonack, by the English the Isle of White (sic) and now com-
monly known by the name of Gardiner's Island, dated 5 Oct. 1665.
The county of Westchester is contained in twenty-nine pages, and
the first grant of a tract of land near the town of Westchester lo
Edward Jcssop and John Richardson is dated 25 April 1666.
Dutchess County has twelve pages, and the first grant of a parcel
of land on the east side of Hudson's River by Govr. Dongan to
Francis Rombouts, Jacobus Kipp, and Stephanus Cortlands is dated
17 Oct. 1685. The county of Ulster is contained in sixty-nine
pages, the first grant of about 1,000 acres of land in Eso;>us to
Jeroimnus Ebbing being dated 5 Dec. 1666. The county of Orange
has twenty-five pages, ;md the first grant of a tract of land on the
west side of Hudson's river called Pessatink to Barman and
Theunis Dowsen is dated 25 Oct. 1687; and, lastly, the county of
Albany is contained in ninety-eight pages, and the first grant by
Govr. Nicolls to the Commanding Officers of Fort Albany of a
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1665.
Jan. 20.
Cayenne.
Jan.?
March ?
March ?
March ?
1667.
parcel of pasture and marsh ground adjoining Fort Albany is dated
25 Sept. 1665. [Col Entry Bk., No. 71.]
372. [M. le Febvre] to his brother, the Abbe le Febvre. In
sending a ship to Surinam for the cure there of their fugitive
soldiers, hazards sending this letter vi England. Has been dan-
gerously ill with a fever and is not yet well. Two hundred men
have died, but the 400 who remain are well. Is surprised the
Comp. delay sending a ship ; it is nine months since they had news
from France. Account of a great fire which burnt the fort, powder,
and most of their arms which must be replaced. Very rough
weather at sea and loss of cattle. They have the finest weather in
the world from July, and those who say it rains nine months have
greatly lied. Since Xmas they have had at full and new moon kind
of gnats or mosquitos [cousins] which annoy them for 3 or 4 days.
Begs him to send 2 muskets " du Bourguignon," 2 pairs of
pistols " de chez Benicour ou Doublet," an army case of 12 or 18
flagons, the History of France by Mezeret or Dupleix, and some
stuff, chamois skin, calico, gloves, riband, &c., and above all to take
care that sheep are sent them. Sends his respects to his mother
and all the family. French. 2% pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 98.]
373. The King to the Governors of the Plantations. Whereas
we have suffered many wrongs and indignities from the East and
West India Companies and other subjects of the United Provinces,
and have not received satisfaction, his Majesty, by advice of his
Privy Council, has ordered a general seizure of their persons, ships,
and goods, and has likewise given commission to the Duke of York
to grant letters of marque, whose orders and instructions they are
required duly to observe. Draft, 1 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 99.]
374. Petition of John and Peter Boschman, his son, natives of
Holland, to the King. For letters of denization under the Great
Seal, being merchant planters in Antigua. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 100.]
375. Petition of Peter Coene and Peter Coene, his son, natives of
Holland and planters in Antigua, to the King. For a Warrant
for Letters Patent of denization. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 101.]
376. Petition of Henry Meyer, Louis Cheverier, Nicholas Byer,
and Rowland Johnson, to the King. Merchants, planters, and in-
habitants of Antigua, where petitioners, being aliens, have long
lived in obedience to his Majesty, they desire a special warrant
for letters of denization, so they may with security enjoy their
estates and a free trade. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 102.]
377. " New Plantation at Cape Florida, Carolina."
Notice is hereby given to nil ingenious and industrious persons that
there is a new plantation begun 2 years since on the main land between
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 145
1667.
Shafteibury Virginia and the Cape of Florida, at a place called Cape Fear, in the
Papers. Province of Carolina, in the latitude of about 34 degrees. It is a climate
most desirable for its temperature and fertility, as those that are there have
written, and those lately come from thence do testify ; they have two crops
of Indian wheat in one year, and all grain, plants, and seeds that ihey
commit to the earth do prosper exceedingly. They have naturally growing
abundance of most stately timber of most sorts in England, but very many
other sorts not known to u?, as cedar, pines, sassafras, and other sweet
woods ; vines, also mulberry and olive trees, from whence come the three
rich commodities of wine, silk, and oil. They have abundance of turkeys
and other fowl in the woods, and great store of sturgeon, salmon, and many
sorts of other good eating fish, both flat and round. They have since
planted and produced very excellent tobacco, indigo, cotton, and potatoes,
and other roots and fruits proper to Barbadoes, Virginia, and Bermudas,
the nearness to which last places makes the planting thereof more easy.
The privileges wherewith it is endowed makes it yet more desirable, the
principal whereof follow :
1st. There is full and free liberty of conscience granted, that those that
are truly conscientious may have liberty to worship God according to
their own way, provided they behave themselves orderly towards the
Civil Government.
2nd. They shall choose from among themselves 13 persons or some
other odd number, one whereof the Lords will appoint for Governor,
and half of the other for his Council, which Governor is to rule for
three years, and then learn to obey.
3rd. They shall choose from among themselves an Assembly (in the nature
of a Parliament), who shall have the sole power of making all laws and
laying taxes when need requires for the use of the Colony, and the
Governor and Council to see the laws put in excecution.
4th. They are to have freedom from custom in England for all wine,
Iruit, currants, almonds, oil, olives, and silk they can produce for
seven years, to commence when four tons of those commodities are at
once imported in one ship.
5th. Every man and woman that transport themselves before the
24 June next, being 1667, shall have for himself, his wife, and each
of his children, and every man servant he shall bring armed with a
firelock or matchlock, musket statute bore, with 10 Ibs. powder,
20 Ibs. of bullet, 100 acres of land for each of them, to him and his
heirs for ever, paying for every 1,000 acres 10*. per annum to the
Lords for an acknowledgment, and for every woman servant and slave
50 acres.
6th. Every servant at the expiration of their service (which is four
years) are (sic) to have the same quantity of land for him or herself
that their muster had for their bringing over and on the same con-
ditions. Also the master is bound to give them two suits of apparel
and a, set of tools to work with when he is out of his time.
If any desire to transport themselves thither, or servants desire to bo
entertained, they may take the opportunity of the Virginia fleet, sind from
thence find easy passage thither, it being but three or four days' sail,
and if they require further advice or information, let them repair to
the (blank in orig.~).
Endorsed as above. [Skaftesbury Papres, Section IX., Bundle 48,
No. 83.]
v 71848
378. Proposals l.y John Whitty for the inhabiting of Carolina
and for building of cities and towns for the said Colony. That the
14(3
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1667.
Shaftesbury
Papers.
King lend one of his great Flemish prizes to transport people free,
the Lords Proprietors to victual and man said ship and to set down
all people that will go free into said Colony. The freight which
said ship will make from Barbadoes or Virginia will re-imburse
their Lordship's charges and 800Z. advantage which Whitty will
engage. For building cities and towns, that the Lords Proprietors
send six house carpenters, six bricklayers, three brickmnkers, two
joiners, and 30 other servants, some to plant corn and vines, and to
look after cattle and hogs, said people to be servants for four years.
When said houses are built, to let the tenants have their dwellings
rent free for three years, after which time the rents to be paid to
the Lords Proprietors. This will cost 1,200. besides their clothing,
and at the end of four years their Lordships will have cattle there
worth 400. Conjectures this to be the cheapest way of building
cities and towns, where artificers, shipwrights, and other tradesmen
will dwell and cause traffic and trading to all parts of the world
and make the Colony famous. That fifty acres of land be allowed
to every person young and old that shall be exported to that Colony.
That the King grant the first lading of every ship built in the
said country custom free, which New England had for many years.
That said inhabitants may trade with goods of their own growth in
ships built there into any port in Christendom, which he conceives
will be the only means to put that Colony into a flourishing con-
dition and to invite artificers and men of estates to inhabit there.
\\pp.
[Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 68.]
379. The reasons to be annexed to the answer of the Burgesses
which they have already presented to the Governor and Council of
State of Virginia. In reference to the quantity of tobacco to be
planted yearly in the Colony ; the prejudice to the Colony to pro-
pound a stock of money to be yearly provided to take off their
tobacco at a certain price ; the inconvenience and prejudice of
building warehouses to bring their tobacco to ; the impossibility of
giving a general account of the present engagements of every
particular man ; and their full confidence in Lord Maltravers or any
other whom the King shall appoint for supplying them with a coin.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 33, No. 103.] There are several papers in J667,
in a previous volume of this Calendar, about a cessation of planting
tobacco which was reported upon by the Lords Committee of Trade
and Plantations on 30 Oct. 1G67. Lord Maltravers had license to
stamp farthiny tokens in 1639 for 21 years, and ''utter the same"
in all his Majesty's plantations except Maryland, see Col. CaL,
15741660,.p. 290.]
380. Styles and titles of Charles, Earl of Carlisle, Governor of
Jamaica; Thomas, Lord Culpeper, Govern or of Virginia; Sir Jonathan
Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Dominica,
and the rest of the Caribbee islands lying to windward of Guadaloupe ;
Col. Stapleton, Governor of St. Christopher's, Nevis, Montserrat,
Autigua, Barbuda, and Anguilla lying to leeward from Guadaloupe
to St John de Porto Rico ; and Edward Cranfield, Governor of New
jHampshire. 1 p. [Col Entry Bh> Vol. 110, p. 1.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 147
1668.
July 3. 381. The King to Sir Thos. Modyford, Governor of Jamaica.
Whereas Solomon Gabay Faro and David Gomes Henriquez made
free denizens of England and recommended to him on behalf of
some considerable merchants, who suppose it may be for the benefit
of the Colony, so long as they behave themselves, to remain upon
the island and freely to trade there. Countersigned by Sec. Sir
Wm. Morrice. 1 p. [Col, Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 7.]
1670.
March 22. 382. The King to Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor of Virginia. Is
informed that Richard son of John Mompesson of Tidworth, co.
Wilts, was in 1667 by undue means inveigled on board the Elizabeth,
Capt. Rich. Hobbs, and on his arrival in Virginia was, with John
Crew and Mary Cousens, delivered to Wm. Drummond living near
James Town, as consigned to him from John Currer in London.
But said Richard Mompesson, by the persuasion of those evil men
who brought him on board, assumed the name of Richard Davis.
Requires him to cause the above named young man to be taken out
of the hands of said Drummond and to deliver him to Col. Willis, a
person well known to the Governor, to be disposed of according to
the directions of Sir Thomas Mompesson or said John Mompesson.
Countersigned by Sec. Sir John Trevor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk,
Vol. 110, p. 17.]
April 6. 383. The King to the Deputy Governor, Council and Assembly
of Barbadoes. William Lord Willoughby hath long since presented
his Majesty with the addresses and humble requests of the in-
habitants of Barbadoes and the rest of the Colonies in the West
Indies which the King had taken into consideration before this
time and made resolution suitable to their necessities, " but that our
Parliament and other intervening occasions of very great importance
have hitherto employed our time and thoughts." His Majesty has
thought fit to continue Lord Willoughby Governor by new Letters
Patent, and the King's public affairs drawing towards a happy
conclusion he will speedily consider the concerns of that Govern-
ment and give such directions as shall witness his royal care of and
'' gracious regards towards you all " which they will do well to
communicate to the Governors of all said Colonies. Countersigned
by Sec. Sir John Trevor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 20.]
July 11. 384. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General. To prepare
a grant to Christopher Duke of Albemarle, Win. Earl of Craven,
John Lord Berkeley, Anthony Lord Ashley, Sir Geo. Carteret, Sir
Peter Colleton, their heirs and assigns, of the islands of Bahama,
Elutheria, Ventris Providence Inagua, and all other islands lyin<{
within 22 deg. to 27 dog. nor. lat., commonly called the Bahama
islands or the Lueayos, with all rights, profits, &c., for ever in free
and common soccage as of our manor of East Greenwich, under the
rent of one pound of fine silver as often as the King, his heirs and
successors, shall visit said islands. Said Hands to be a County
Palatine with the same privileges as were granted by the Patent of
3 June 1665 for Carolina. Countersigned by the Sec. Sir John
Trevor. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk, Vol. 110, pp. 22, 23.]
K 2
148
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1670.
July ?
Virginia.
Aug. 2.
Whitehall.
1671.
March 27.
Whitehall.
Aug. 20.
Whitdiall.
385. Case of Robt. Bullock. About 1626 Capt. Hugh Bullock
planted an estate of 5,500 acres, in Virginia, which, at his decease
in London 16 years ago, he bequeathed to his grandson Robert, then
an infant. Some of the adjoining planters have entered upon the
plantation and claim it as their own. Requests a letter of recom-
mendation to Sir William Bartlett (Berkeley), Governor of Virginia,
whither he is going 1 to make out his title to the property. p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 104]
386. The King to Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor of Virginia.
Robert Bullock having presented a petition complaining of vexatious
delays in the prosecution of his right to an estate he alleges to be
descended to him in Virginia, the King signifies his pleasure that
said petition be examined, and speedy and impartial justice be don
the petitioner according to the merits of his case, his occasions re-
quiring his presence here, and will not permit unnecessary delay,
just and favourable dispatch being the principal end of this his
Majesty's recommendation. Countersigned by Sec. Sir John Trevor
1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 24.]
387. The King to the Governor of Barbadoes. After the death
of Fras. Cradock, his Majesty conferred the office of Provost Marshal
upon James, one of the Grooms of the Bedchamber, upon whose
surrender the King granted said office to Edwin Steed by Patent
[dated 22 June 1670] during life. But understanding that some of
the inhabitants of Barbadoes, to the derogation of our authority and
discouragement of said officer, have made a certain pretended Act
for abating the fees and taking away some of the privileges of the
Provost Marshal granted by said Letters Patent, whereby said office
will speedily fall to nothing, and the public service inevitably be
neglected, the King has thought fit to let him know that such pr<
ceedings are an entrenchment upon his royal authority, and therefor
requires that the usual fees be continued to said Edwin Steed with
all his privileges mentioned in said Letters Patent, and particularly
that of appointing Marshals in the several Courts erected or to be
erected. And the King hereby annuls any act, order, or restraint
whatsoever made in Barbadoes to the prejudice of the Provost
Marshal, and contrary to said Letters Patent. Countersigned by
Sec. Sir John Trevor. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, pp. 27, 28.]
388. The King to [Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor of Virginia]
IB given to understand that one Thomas Shaw, of the county of
Westmorland in Virginia, having in the heat of a difference un-
fortunately wounded one (blank), whereof he died, hath receivec
sentence of death, but that the Governor hath reprieved him until
April next, to the end he may endeavour to procure his pardon.
Upon humble supplication on his behalf the King requires the
Governor to continue the reprieve already granted to said Thomas
Shaw until his Majesty's further pleasure, and that in the'meantime
he enjoy his liberty without molestation. Countersigned by Sec.
Sir John Trevor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 33.]
AMERICA. AND WEST INDIES.
349
1671.
Dec. 7.
Whitehall.
Shaftesburj
Papers.
Shaftfsbury
Papers.
389. The King to the Governor of Montserrat. John Devereux,
late an inhabitant of that island and Lieutenant of a Company in
the King's service, has complained by petition that he was on
10 June last assaulted by Capt. Daniel Jones, and after being
wounded was obliged to draw his sword in defence, and " happened
to make an unhappy pass in his body, whereof he died," which
wrought so upon petitioner that he fled the island in a French boat,
but now prays to be permitted to have his trial in the island
without bringing his said flight into question. His Majesty cannot
but have compassion upon him if his case be such as he hath related,
and therefore sends his petition, and commands that said John
Devereux have a fair trial without mention of his said flight.
Countersigned by Sec. Sir John Trevor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. 110, p. 35.]
390. Address of the gentlemen chosen for an Assembly for the
County of Clarendon in Carolina, with the consent of Sir John
Yeamans, Lieutenant-General, to the Lords Proprs. of Carolina.
Upon consideration of their Lordships' charters and concessions to
the said county, they supplicate for the redress of three grievances,
viz., the halfpenny per acre for all lands, the undecimal way of
division of these lands, and the injunction on penalty of forfeiture
of keeping one man upon every hundred acres. To which are
added their reasons also why Sir John, who at first purposed to
join with them in this address, had, upon further thoughts, dis-
covered an absurdity in owning under his hand so particular a
knowledge of the soil of the country into which he was but newly
come, but that in his private letter to their Lordships he would
intimate his "full satisfaction" of the grievousness and imprac-
ticability of these three injunctions. Therefore upon these grounds
they further press further reasons for their Lordships' consideration.
Signed by John Vassall, R. Sandford, Hump. Davenport, Jno.
Nevinson, Richard Whittney, Geo. Gary, Robert Gibbs, John
Knight, Sam. Elam (?), Tho. Clifton, Willigrip (?), Henry Brayne,
Thomas Gibbes, and John Brent. [Yeaman's Commission as
Governor is dated 21 Aug. 1671, see previous Vol. of Calendar,
No. 606.] 4 pp. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48,
No. 81.]
391. Mem. by Anthony Lord Ashley. Sir Robt. Heath's
patent of Carolina is dated 30 Oct., 5 Car. I. (see ante, No. 151).
The articles to which it refers of the same date in the Signet Office.
If it refers to text, is not extant, makes the patent void. Several
references in the patent to the instructions. The consideration, the
propagating the gospel, industria et impensis suis, the honor and
profit of the King. There are both articles and instructions, the
first of the date of these presents, the other of a letter to be signed.
| p. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 69.]
392. The complaint of Abdell Shaw, merchant, sent over for
England by the King of the island of Johanna, In Nov. 1670
the ship Katherine, Capt. South, arrived at Johanna bringing two
150 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1671,
hundred slaves from St. Lawrence. His converse with the King
about assisting him in taking the island Mohilla ; Captain South to
have two hundred slaves on reducing said island. The King's two
sons to go with Capt. South to note the powder and shot expended,
for which the King was to pay. Capt. South put his 200 slaves on
shore, and the King furnished him with 400 men, provisions, and
four junks with 100 men each. On arriving at Mohilla a Portuguese
vessel at anchor fired at the junks, killed several men, and kept
them from landing, upon which the King's son desired to know
why Capt. South did not assist in the engagement. The Com-
mander of the Portuguese ship, at a sign from Capt. South, went
aboard his ship, presented Capt. South with 100 dollars and a silk
quilt ; and the next day Capt. South sailed for Johanna. On being
asked by the King's son why he did not perform his contract, Capt.
South said he would not fight. Arrived at Johanna he sent Abdell
Shaw to the King demanding five hundred dollars for his services,
and in case of refusal tliat he would kill the King's sons and carry
away the 400 men he had on board for slaves. The King, afraid
his sons should be killed, after some parley, paid him that sum in
money and provisions, but told Capt. South that what he received
was by force. After remaining twenty days he departed without
paying for the maintenance of his 200 slaves left on the island for
a month and a half and took away six poor inhabitants from their
wives and families by force, whom he sold at Jamaica and Barbadoes.
Capt. South also pillaged a junk of a seaman and forty slaves. 3 pp.
[Col 2>apers, Vol. 33, No. 105.]
1671 ? 393. Petition of Major Edward Hamilton to the King. His
many faithful services and sufferings for the Crown have ruined
his estate. Prays for the government of Nevis, which is likely to
become void, by the great age, desertment, or other ways of the
present Governor, Col. James Russell, a native of Ireland, where
petitioner was born and resideth. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 106.]
1672.
Feb. 5. 394. The King to the Governor of Barbadoes. That John
Whitehall Miller, by petition, informs his Majesty that Thos. Aplethwaite, of
Barbadoes, is indebted to petitioner in a considerable sum of money
for which he mortgaged his plantation many years past, yet hath
taken no care to satisfy said debt, but retains all or most of the
lawyers of that island, so that petitioner is unable to prosecute his
right. Desires that all our subjects shall have free and equal
justice everywhere, recommends said John Miller to him, to cause
sufficient counsel and attorneys to be assigned to him, to plead his
cause, and that he suffer no unjust obstruction or sinister practises
to be used against petitioner by said Aplethwaite. Countersigned
by Sec. Sir John Trevor. 1 p. [Col. tinby BL, Vol. 110,
p. 36.]
April 10. 395. The King to Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor of Virginia
Whitehall, .Thomaj Ludwell, Secretary of Virginia, having made suit to come
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
151
1672.
July 10.
Whitehall.
Sept. 23.
Whitehall.
Dec. 9.
1674.
July 3.
to England " to follow certain affairs which require his presence
here," it is the King's will and pleasure that the Governor give
license to said Thos. Ludwell to repair to England with permission
to execute his place of Secretary by a substitute, and reserving
until his return said place of Secretary, as all salaries and per-
quisites thereunto belonging. Countersigned by Sec. Sir John
Trevor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. lW,pp. 39, 40.]
396. The King to William Lord Willoughby, Governor of
Barbadoes. Sir John Maynard, our Serjeant-at-law, having pre-
sented a petition against one William White, copy of which is sent,
the Governor is required to have the controversy thoroughly
examined, and report the matter of fact to the King, that there-
upon a final judgment may be given upon Sir John Maynard's
appeal. If said White desires to attend us in Council within
three months, and give good security for his appearance in order
to the hearing of the whole matter in difference, so his Majestj'
may determine according (o justice, and the intestate's estate be
secured, then said White to be allowed such liberty. Counter-
signed by Henry Coventry. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110,
pp. 41, 42.]
397. The King to William Stapleton, Governor of the Leeward
Islands. Complaint having been made to us by the King of
Denmark that certain orders were given by the late Governor, Sir
Chas. Wheeler, prejudicial to that King's right and jurisdiction on
the Island of St. Thomas, his Majesty has thought fit to disavow
Sir Chas. Wheeler's proceedings, " having given evidence of our
dislike of his conduct in that and other things, by recalling him
from tnat government." Commands Gov. Stapleton to forbear
and forbid the doing of anything that may give just cause of
unkindness between the King of Denmark and his Majesty, but
that he exercise all acts of friendships to the inhabitants of
St. Thomas, and all that King's subjects in the West Indies.
Countersigned by Sec. Henry Coventry. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. 110, pp. 43, 44.]
398. The King to Capt. John Berry, Governor of New Jersey,
and to his Council. Having been informed that some turbulent
and disaffected persons inhabiting New Jersey, which his Majesty
has granted to John Lord Berkeley, of Stratton, and Sir Geo.
Carteret, as absolute Proprietors, to their great prejudice and dis-
turbance and hindrance of the plantation, commands him to
strictly charge all persons to yield obedience to the laws and
government there established by said Lord Proprietors. Shall expect
a ready compliance with this our will and pleasure upon pain of
incurring our high displeasure, and being proceeded against with
due severity according to law. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110,
p. 45.]
399. Warrant to [the Attorney General] to prepare a Bill for
Court, the King's signature to pass the Great Seal, containing a grant to
152 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1674.
James Duke of York, his heirs and assigns for ever, of " all that
part of the mainland of New England," the boundaries of which
are set forth, being the colony of New York. [The boundaries
and contents of this grant are identical with a previous patent to
the Duke of York, dated 12 March 1664, abstracted in Col. Gal.,
1661-1668, p. 101, tfo. 685.] 2pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110,
pp. 56, 57.]
Aug. 12. 400. The King to Major Edmund Andros and Anthony Brock-
Hampton Court, hurst. By a commission dated 24 July last the King appointed
them to demand and take possession of the colony of New York
from the Dutch, by virtue of the 6th Article of our last treaty with
the States General ; his Majesty, having granted said colony to
the Duke of York, commands them as soon as they shall be
possessed of the premises to comport themselves in the future
government and of the revenues arising therefrom, according to
directions and instructions from the Duke of York. 1 p. [Col.
Entry Bh t Vol. 110,^. 58.]
Dec. 30. 401. The King to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes.
Whitehall. The Council of Barbadoes having sent advice that there had been
lately brought to Barbadoes eleven Indians from the Amazon river
on the coast of Guiana by force, and considering the great im-
portance of a fair correspondence between the Caribbee Indians
and the English, and that provocation should be avoided, com-
mands him to send said Indians home by the first opportunity, and
that in the meantime they be kindly used, and that he takes all
proper occasions to gain the goodwill and affection of that people,
and to promote a good understanding with them. 1\ pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. 110, pp. 61, 62.]
1674? 402. Petition of Sir George Pretyman to the King. About
1663 his father, who was Receiver, was 20,OOOZ. in arrears for
tenths and first fruits, but as his estate was settled in reversion on
petitioner, he could not pay it without petitioner's consent, who
thereupon consented to the passing of an Act of Parliament for
sale of the same, whereof his Majesty's debt was paid, but petitioner
was utterly ruined. In the time of Sir George Boothe's rising,
petitioner raised a troop of horse at a charge of 2,000?., for which
he has not yet asked any recompense, notwithstanding his Majesty's
voluntary promise at Breda. And whereas the Island of Jamaica
ought to be supplied with an officer called by the name of Treasurer
and Recorder of the Patents, prays that said office may be con-
ferred upon him. Signed G. Pretyman. [On 2 July 1674 Oov.
Lynch chose Samuel Bernard for Treasurer. 1 p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 33, No. 107.]
1 674 ? 403. Observations upon the several heads proposed by Mr.
Secretary Ludwell and other gentlemen sent from Virginia. 1. As
to the request to be enabled to buy the quit-rents and escheats
there already granted by the King to the Lord Chamberlain St.
Albans, Culpeper, Eerke\ey[[Grant dated 8 May 1669J to the public
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
153
1674
[1674.]
use of the Colony. 2. Whether it be good for the Crown to parcel
the plantations into two small properties. 3. Ought to be granted
to such as enjoy lands, they paying quit-rents. 4. Concerns the
King's eschtator and patentees. 5. As to the chief officers being
resident. 6. Absolutely necessary and will secure them from being
subject to a double jurisdiction, viz., the laws of an English Par-
liament where they have no representatives. 7. If in pursuance
of what is done in Ireland and Jamaica. On all seven heads the
King's authority and power must in no sort be lessened " for the
New England disease is very catching ; " and whilst they desire to
have no other dependence but on the Crown, care must be taken
that they do depend on the Crown and that their remoteness and
great growth is very considerable. In a word the country is to be
encouraged and the power of the Crown kept up. 3 sheets.
[Col Papers, Vol. 33, No. 108.]
404. Memorial of Mr. Serjeant Rigby. Recites patent to the
Earl of Warwick, Sir Ferdinando Gorges, and others, of 8 Nov.
1620 of New England, and their Grant of 26 June 1630 to Bryan
Bincks, John Dy, and others, their associates, their heirs, and assigns
for ever, of two islands in the river Sagadahock and certain tracts
of land therein mentioned. That in the year 1630 said Bryan
Bincks and associates settled themselves in Casco Bay, layed out
considerable sums of money in planting there and made laws and
constitutions for government of said plantation. That in 1643,
John Dy, Thos. Jupe, and others, survivors of Bryan Bincks and
others, granted their claim and interest in said lands to Alexander
Rigby, of Rigby, co. Lancaster, his heirs and assigns for ever.
That in 1644, Robert Earl of Warwick, Governor-in-Chief in
America, ratified and confirmed several laws and constitutions for
the good government of the people inhabiting the territory afore-
said, then styling the same the province of Ligonia. About that
time a difference arising, being said Rigby and John Gorges' son
and heir apparent of said Sir Ferdinando concerning the title and
boundaries of the Provinces of Maine and Ligonia, same was in
1646 heard and examined by said Earl of Warwick and Com-
mittee for Foreign Plantations, and by them adjudged that the
right and title of said Province of Ligonia was in the said Rigby
and his heirs, and the inhabitants were commanded to submit to
the government of said Rigby, which in 1645 they had done by
consenting and subscribing their names to said constitutions under
which government they continued until 1652 or 1653, all which
time the Government of Massachusetts extending their northerly
bounds forced most of the people living within the Province of
Ligonia to submit to their government. Now, the Massachusetts
bounds being questioned before the Privy Council by Mr. Mason
and the heir of Sir Ferd. Gorges, it is humbly desired that no
order be made to the prejudice of the Rigby 's interest before
Mr. Serjeant Rigby in whom the interest of the Province of Ligonia
now remains, be first heard. Endorsed by Williamson, " N. Engl.
Mr. Serj. Rigby." The date is supplied by the Privy Council
Register. There is a petition of Gorges, Mason, Rigby, and
154* COLONIAL PAPERS.
[1671]
others, patentees and inhabitants of the Provinces of Maine and
Ligonia to ' the Parliament of the Commonwealth" complaining
of the government of Massachusetts, and praying that the whole
business may be examined. Col. Cat., 1574-1660, pp. 478,479.
Also a "State of the differences of the several Provinces of New
England," endorsed by Povey, 2 December 1674, in the previous
volumn of this Calendar, p. 627, No. 1397. [Col. Papers, Vol. 33,
No. 109.]
1674-77. 405. A small MS. Volume, one of Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson's
note books. List of the Plantations, Barbadoes, Sir Jon. Atkins ;
Leeward Islands, St. Christopher's, Nevis, Antigua, Montserrat,
Stapleton ; New England, 1, Boston ; 2, Plymouth ; 3, Connecticut ;
4, Rhode Island ; Jamaica, Somers Islands or Bermudas, Virginia,
Maryland, Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland,
Hudson's Bay. Four Acts about Plantation Trade ; Act of Naviga-
tion, securing the Customs, regulating the Plantation Trade, securing
the Plantation Trade.
1674-75. SuiUNAM. The Dutch agreement of making sugar ; they offer
2001. per annum to our English workmen which we have for 101. 15s.:
sugar-makers, &c. The French begin to learn that art. The
English have 1,200 negroes on Surinam, and may be themselves
about 300. Spoke with Sir [Nath.] Brent lately come from thence,
1 674-75. Every head of cattle there worth 20Z. 300 English,
1,100 or 1,200 Negroes. Have 20 sugar works ; out of debt,
generally because they have had no supplies of shoes, &c., many tons
of sugar, &c. 20L per ton to the Dutch, whereas in Barbadoes we
have it for 4Z. 10s. They might buy off 10,000 wt. for an overseer,
whereas we have them for 10m. (sic). All the artificers are English,
carpenters, smiths, &e. The Dutch have not the skill of making
sugar, but hire the very raggedest English, &c. Sugar works in
Surinam : 17 on the river Surinam, 3 on Cainaweena River. 30 per
cwt. by the Dutch which will make it difficult to the English.
The Dutch ordered to free the English, in debt to them for
blacks, &c., and to that end some ships are now sent to Jam(aica).
Proposed to have two large flyboats, one less vessel, one man-of-
war. The English have good number of cattle, which the Dutch
will endeavour to underrate and forbid to buy and hinder the
English from carrying off. [pp. 13-1.5.]
1674. SURINAM. Heads proposed by the Council in March 1673-74 for
the Dutch orders. 1. To suffer our Commissioners on arriving to
have free access among the English. 2. The English to sell their
estates, pay their debts, and no harm to hinder them. The ships
to have two months' time to stay there. N.B. One Brent has
lately come over and given an account of the present state of the
place. Browning (?) offers to go Commissioner for nothing; to
treat with Odyke about our orders for Surinam, N. England. The
Council's Report and Stapleton's demands. Ammunition, pay for the
two companies, satisfaction against the French. The Council wants
regulating, r av, &c. What about N. England ? What about New-
foundland? If Mr. Cranfield won't do some job about N. England
AMERICA AND NVEST INDIES 155
1674-77.
in coming back. Qu. The Council's Report about New England,
[pp. 21-23.]
1674-76. WEST INDIES. NEVIS. 23 July, from Stapleton, grievances from
the French, slaves, &c., [salary for himself, pay for the 2 com-
panies at ST. CHRISTOPHER'S, seal for the Islands, his justification
against Sir Ch. Wheeler, i.e., religion and the selling S. Ch. plan-
tations ; qu. the demands of Stapleton for de Baas. Stapleton's
last account of the Island, &c., 10 July. De Ruyter arrived at
Vichinequa with 40 sail, a vessel taken in the mouth of the cul-
de-sac ; C. de Home was in a fair way to make himself master of
the fort, &c., but De Ruyter made his signal to repair aboard.
Fr. vilanos, dispersing their slaves, sold them after a month's
sequestration ; qUu what articles made with de Baas by Sir Ch.
Wheeler. The French pretend to have lost slaves by us ; Henseler,
12 negroes ; de Pareille, a like number. 16 October, Mr. Gorges,
merchant, on behalf of ST. CHRISTOPHER'S. 1. Many acres of land
in St. Christopher's belonging to the English not yet resettled.
2. Negroes not resettled. 3. Fr[ench] claim the sovereignty of the
seas. 4. Negroes to be supplied yearly. 5. The seal lost by Sir
Charles Wheeler. <J. Two companies of foot not paid since June
1671. Letters received 13 October 1671. BARBADOES, 16 July,
for the Committee [by the Garland] ; the peace proclaimed. The
Garland sent for here, want of victuals. Repairs. Barbadoes is
reckoned to be 100,000 acres ; of these 10,000 acres were at first
planted by certain merchants of London under the E. Carlisle,
under 5 per 100 of the issues. The Governor ; the Council put in
by the commandment of the King ; the Assembly which consists
of two men of a parish. These three make laws, which are good
till the K[ing] disapproves. N.B. To find a way to know all
vessels coming and going to and from all foreign plantations and
returned to the Council. Write frequently to all plantations and
press to hear from them. N.B. Stapleton has not heard from
Europe since 1672. The 4 per cwt. is a duty through all the
Plantations on goods exported, &c. Wheeler and Strode farmed it
for 7,000. per annum. BARBADOES. Laws are good when assented
to by the Governors of themselves, without any approbation of the
King till the K. declare the contrary. In all other Plantations,
as at Jamaica, only for two years unless the King approves
them, &c. Lord F. Willoughby obtained of the Assembly, when
first he went to them, the 4 per cent, on condition that all the
planters, &c., should hold thenceforth all their lands in free
soccage, &c., vide the Act, &c. October 22, 1674. France, qu. Edit
of 31 May 1670, forbidding all strangers to sail aux environs, &c.,
to these Islands, [pp. 17-21.]
1676. BARBADOES. 6 April 1676. Petition of the Council and As-
sembly. 1. Complain of the payment of the 4 per cent., the rules
for levying it ; have passed an Act for gauging vessels of sugar,
praying it to be passed by the K. 2. As to Negro Slaves, the
Guinea Company supply them generally and at fixed rates, formerly
161. per head, now 201. and 22. ; confess they are offered at 151.
per head one with another. 3, Act of Navigation, by which they
156 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1674-77,
are forced to bring all sugars to England ; the market is over
stocked, the freight dear. They offer, 1, to trade only with
English ships ; 2, and sail with English only, which are the orders
of the Act. 3. The returns will pay the K.'s customs at B.B. [p. 29.
End of Book.]
1674-75. LEEWARD ISLANDS. SAN DOMINGO, ST. VINCENT. Are peopled
by Indians entirely animated by the French. ST. CHRISTOPHER'S
has about 600 English; the 4 per cent, is in force for Sir Ch.
Wheler for 7 years, of which about 4 expired 1675. Qu. All that
passed in the affair of St. Kitt's is with the French, all the orders,
commissions, &c. The Indians of Dominica and St. Vincent were
headed by young Warner, who was old Sir Th. Warner('s son) by
an Indian woman, &c., who was now lately killed by Col. Stapleton
in a small expedition, 1674-75. Qu. The articles for the surrender
of St. Christopher's. Sir R. Southwell, &c. ST. CHRISTOPHER'S.
Col. Lockhart's Memorial of 6/16 May 1674 contains these com-
plaints. A narrative of all: 1. That no regard was had to the
spoils committed before the Lord Willoughby's Demand of llesti-
tution, &c., 1671, &c. 2. The Commissioners did not continue their
sittings 3. That ameliorations were demanded. 4. Demanded
greater sums from the English proprietors than they had received
really. Prays that the Most Christian King will give the K. up
the sovereignty, and the English old Proprietors be restored upon
payment of their price really received, that no advantage be taken
of the tenure of a year and a day having lapsed, seeing the
revision of several difficulties, [pp. 21, 25, 26. End of Book.]
1676. NEW ENGLAND. May 1675. Qu, If the respective Governors of
the Plantations have taken the Oaths about executing the several
Acts of Navigation, &c. Qu. If the Bonds appointed to be taken
from ships in the several Plantations have been returned yearly
hither as appointed. As to Gorges' county in N. England, vide
King's letter 1664, their answer of April 1665, the King's letter to
them, 1666. The Massachusetts Patent is said by them to bear
date 10 or 11 years before the grant to Ferd. Gorges (vide their
letter to Sec. Morrice). N.B. A Quo Warranto was brought 1637
against the Bostoners' Patent, and I expect given for the King.
They melt down all English money brought in there into their
own coin, making every shilling I5d. to avoid the carrying it out.
4,000 seamen saved themselves into N. England in the late Dutch
Wars (Capt. Wyborn, captain of the (blank) 1673). As to the
Acts of Navigation, &c. : 1. N. England is as one of the Plan-
tations under these laws. 2. As to abuses, 25 Car. II., they bring
into Europe American goods and not to England directly ; they
carry thither out of all parts of Europe goods of Europe, which
should go only from England. 3. Remedies : Let the Governors in
New England take the oath enjoined by law ; ho vessels to bring in
European commodities save which were shipped in England ; to
take bonds of all vessels that come there to trade here in England
and nowhere else, the forfeiting of the Bonds to be duly pro-
secuted, &c. As to the oath they take. Qu. If all Governors of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
157
1674-77.
d ,(?/!
the Plantations have taken the oaths, and if same has been taken
for the King. As to the Bonds taken Sir J. Shaw has received no
such Bonds save only from Maryland, and some few from Virginia,
&c. N.B. That the point of Bonds be looked into, &c. What care
has been taken by the Governors, if they are sufficiently directed to
do it. Qu, Statia and Saba if held by the Dutch, and why they do
not demand restitution of them. Qu. How the Church stands in
the Plantations, what provisions made for them. [pp. 59-63.]
NEWFOUNDLAND. 1610, a Grant to E. Northampton, &c., of
Newfoundl(and) ; 1C 20, Grant of Aviland to L. Baltimore; 1620,
Earl Pembroke's Patent, e.;M. Hamilton, &c., against L. Baltimore,
&c. ; 1660, Grant of Confiimation to L. Baltimore; 1633, Charter
granted to Western Traders, &c. ; ItiGO, the Western Charter
renewed; 1663, Additions to the former Charter in Council. Qu. to
settle a Governor ? The fleet and convoy go out in March. Qu. What
Ordinances made by France against Newfoundland, &c., and any
other Plantations on Trade, &c. N.B. K. James' Letters Patent to
L. Baltimore of all Aviland, &c., about 1620. K. Charles I. made
a Patent to the Kirks of Newfoundland, &c. (Aviland) ; yet by a
Report of Sir Orl. Bridgman and Sir Hen. Finch, 1660, the first
Patent was found ^ood to L. Baltimore, and an order of the K.'s
to restore Aviland by the Kirks to L. Baltimore. The western
towns, 15 Car. IT. 14 Dec. 1663, an Order of Council in favour
of the Western men for observing the Order and Rules made by the
Fishers. This trade has been from the West for 30 years and
more. 200 ships usually employed, and 20,000 men. N.B. Three
voyages make a landsman a good seaman ; of the profit is
divided among the seamen ; the fish carried into the Straits, and
brought liome in fruits, wine, &c. Bullion: go out in April, come
back at Michaelmas; leave their nets, instruments, &c., covered
with reeds ; 1633, Regulations of this Fishery in Council. N.B.
The flrst vessel that arrives in Newfoundland is by that made
Admiral. 13 Car. I. a Patent to the Lords Proprietors. 12 Caroli. I.,
26 Jan., Grant to the Western men. The Western men would have
none stay behind them, but all return yearly, &c. Others wished
for a Plantation and to be settled ; 1,000 able seamen remained in
Newfoundland the winter of 1670 or 1671 ; they remaining make -*-
of the fetch (?) that is made. Boatkeepers are those persons that
remain in Newfoundland in the winter of the Westerns, tec. ; these
Boatkeepers destroy the houses, boats, provisions, &c., that the
Western Newfoundland men leave behind them, pull down their
stages, which obliges them to make new every year, destroy the woods
by burning. Forced to begin their voyages two mouths earli(er)
than formerly to set up stages, &c., which makes them sell the fish
clearer. The Boatkeepers provide themselves with provisions from
N. England and Ireland, not England ; they possess themselves of
the best fishing-places, and so prevent the ships, &c. New additions
of power prayed for: I. No persons to be carried to Newfoundland
but such as mean to settle there save the ship's company. II. The
fishing to be maintained by the ships that go, and all of a ship's
company to be in one company and engaged to keep so. III. Only
158 COLONIAL PAPEKS.
1674-77.
60 persons for 100 tons of ships. The Dutch build 50 persons to
100 ; not above 100 tons on any ship. Additional powers advised
by the Council of Plantations, 1670: 1. All the K.'s subjects may
go and fish there, go on shore, &c., cut wood for stages, &c., pro-
vided they observe the Rules established. 2. No stranger to settle
or fish, 3. No planter or inhabitant to fell any timber trees, &c.,
to make no gardens or plant within 6 miles of the coast between
Cape Raye and Cape Bonavista. 4. No planter or inhabitant to
take up stages, &c., before the fishing vessels arrive from England.
5. That the Rules of 1660 be thus altered: No persons to be carried
to Newfoundland but the ship's company. 6. No one ship to carry
above 60 persons per 100 tons, and so proportion ably. 7. Every
5th man yearly carried out be a green man, i.e., not a seaman.
8. To victual all in England except salt. 9. No ship to go out
before 1 March, or to the Cape de Verd Islands before 15 Jan.
10. To give Bond to the Mayors of the ports, &c., of WOl. not to
carry out save their ship's company, to bring them back again ;
if no complaint made within 9 months then the Bond to be
delivered up. 11. Every stage to have 25 men in a company.
12. N.B. To remain in Newfoundland after the fishing. 13. The
Admirals, Vice- Admiral, and Rear- Admiral, to preserve good order at
shore and in the harbours. 14. The companies to support none but
their company. 15. The companies to assist the Admirals, &c.
16. The companies to keep out at sea. 17. Companies not to fish.
18. To take account of the places ports, states of them, &c. 19. To
take an account of the stages and fishing-places. 20. Of the
number of the inhabitants' ships, boats, implements. 21. Com-
panies not to bring off any fish. 22. To give in copies of their
journals. 23. Admirals, &c., in the Bay to secure all offenders and
bring them home. 24. On 20 Sept. to publish orders against the
stay of any seaman after 28 Oct. 25. Accounts of the state of
the fishing, &c., to be given in to the Council of Plantations.
26. The Mayors and Recorders of the respective W, ports to hear
all complaints, &c. 27. Reasonable fines to be imposed on the
persons offending against Rules, and these fines to be J- to the K.,
-- to the informer, and |- to the place. 28. The power of the
E. Marshall, &c., as to carrying beyond the sea to be removed
(? renewed) in relation to Newfoundland. In view of it a Rule to
be now settled, &c. 29. The inhabitants of Newfoundland to
transport themselves to other Plantations, &c. Order of Council,
March 10, 1670-71, confirmed 18 of these advices by the Council of
Plantations ; ordering the attorney to prepare a Bill, &c., to pass the
Great Seal, <tec. Mr. Attorney to consider of the clause about the
power of E. Marshal. From 1 496, the first discovery of Newfound-
land, till 1632, the French never fished there. Then, on pretence
of carrying on their trade at L'Acadie, they began to usurp the
fishing, &c. Kirke sent as Governor to prevent it; about 1662
they begin to plant there. In 1666 the French had 100 sail, and
we but 10 or 12 ; 25 years ago were 200 ships, 150.000/., a stock
of fish, &c., took off English commodities 100,000 t. (?tons), brought
back of oils, &c., 300,000 tons ; about 10,000 men, green men j
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES, 159
1674-77.
the ships return at Michaelmas, and so the people working all
winter; 100 sail of ships employed in fetching salt. Fish cost
i cheaper than now ; infinite numbers of handicraftsmen employed
in England upon it; infinite increase of seamen. Alleged in the
Books and Plantation Accounts make fish dearer, as N. England fish is
dearer ^. Against Boatkeepers. Western shipping, breeds no sea-
men, hinders the conveyance for victualling, &c., and benefits New
England, France, and Ireland. Fish is dearer and N. England
supplies the market ; the boats take up all good places, and prevent
the ships; they set on fire woods, destroy stages, debauch the
seamen with brand}*, &c. ; the country not being improvable to
sustain the planters, they must fetch victuals elsewhere. Against
a Governor. I. It would make it no English fishery, i.e., carry it
quite out of England into N. England. N.B. For the fishery
is now almost grown as prejudicial as that of England at New-
foundland. All trade is either to benefit the nation by increase of
people. New England and Ireland will feed and clothe them.
Objection : How can it be preserved without a Governor and force
against the French ? Answer : These would not preserve it,
though the King should go to the expense of it as 3 or 4 forts.
The coast is so made. ]t must be a force at . c ea, by frigates.
The fishery lies 200 miles long. At St. John's indeed might be a
fort but also that covers nothing but the fishery of that very part,
and a frigate and live ships destroy all the fishery, &c. N.B. The
country is mean, unprofitable, and so places of fishing must be
destroyed by any French coming into the country. But is only to
be done by force at sea, i.e., all passage from place to place is by
water. N.B The fish are found uncertainly, some years in one
place, sometimes in quite another ; for it cannot be known where
the fishing will be, so no fort can be certainly where to be fixed.
The inhabitants spoil the stag, s, the fishing places. N.B. A
Governor could not redress &t all the abuses, c., of destroying
stages, burning woods, &c. Besides, he dwells at St. John's at a
great distance, and cannot at all come by land, and, in winter,
which is the proper time to do it, cannot for storms come by
water. For plantation upon Newfoundland, &c., arid for a Go-
vernor. It costs so much our sending ships and keeping them
rigged some months more than is necessary ; we can't go to market
with the French ; the French take twice as much as we of fish ;
for fay they, let it be planted, they want the fish and we only
fetch them off and carry our commodities, &c. N.B. That
Mr. Gould, being the principal abettor of this doc'rine, is avowedly
for the turning of this trade in such a way as may benefit N.
England ; and whereas the arguments on the other side are all
bound for ihc profit that would arise to New England, which he
plainly tells us lie will not agree to, for he says he is all with us,
and if Old England gained, &c. This is at the I ottom the sense of
his doctrine, &c. Objection ; France oversells us. Answer :
France now is come to furnish itself with fish, \\hich we did
formerly. This fish they can sell cheaper than we, because, &c., &c.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1674-77.
In all foreign markets can sell even with them. Objection : The
English fishing is not so good now as heretofore. Answer :
Because we formerly had all the N. England fishery, while now
N. England is come to take it (into) their own hands, &c., c.
N.B. If this answer not the great question, how our English
fishery at Newfoundland is damaged. N.B. A ship of 100 tons
carries 10 boats, a boat 5 men. Objection : France sells cheaper.
Answer: No; for this very year at St. Malo they sell for 61. (?)
the quintal, and now at London we sell for 12s., which is not so
dear. N.B. Some sorts of fish are for some places and go off
better, others at others, and that causes the going of ours or their
fish, &c. ; but generally speaking, ours go off equal to theirs ; we
can sell as cheap and do sell as dear, &c. France has made a
proclamation encouraging planters, i.e., giving so many livres for
every woman, so many for every man. Common ills agreed on by
each party, of which remedies must be found. Stages pulled
down and so much cost to raise them, which makes ours come
later to the market, &c, ; woods destroyed by which there wants
wood to rebuild the stages ; harbour spoiled by ballast thrown, &,c.,
1615. Capt. Whitbourne had a Commission to inquire into abuses
in Newfoundland. 1633. Rules for trading set down, &c., in the
Star Chamber, in the Council. Against a Governor and Plantation
by the Western Ports, &c. (Against ?) a Plantation. 1. They take
up the best places not being able to dwell at 6 miles from the shore,
as is required there. 2. They destroy stages, rob, &c. 3. Destroy
woods. 4. They want necessaries, and go over debauched upon
brandy, &c. 5. The Governor for his profit licenses tippling-
houses, &c., which debauches the men, &c. 6. They take up all good
places of fishing, &c. 7. They breed no seamen as this was doing,
&c. ; their seamen leave their families here to burthen the parish ;
and get away all the good seamen and fishermen from the ships
that go from hence, by which they pay dear and have not so good
'. men. 8. A Governor must cost the trade to maintain him, which
would burthen the fishery trade. 9. The increase of seamen
follows this present way, and the fishing trade could manage, as it
happens to the French. N.B. In summer scarce any disturbance
happened to our fishing except by De Ruyter once, &c. ; in winter
the country and coast is so cold and frozen, nothing is to be found,
so in no case is a Governor of Forts necessary. N.B. Our fishing is
but of what it was before Sir David Kirke was settled Governor.
The Merchants and Owners. I. The advantages of the trade :
1. Great growth of navigation, c. 2. Great quantities of victuals
from home, materials for shipping. 3. Great numbers of seamen
made. 4. Considerable numbers of families maintained by it.
5. Increase of customs. II. As to the method of it : Go out in
April, returns in winter, and bring home all their men for the
King's service, &c., as by Order of 1633 of Council. III. In
process of time some irregular people stayed in the country in
winter by the negligence of those that ought to have prevented it,
as carrying of private persons and foremost boatkeepers upon the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 161
1674-77.
ships from home, as in the late years of the fish caught was
caught by the people remaining there, and in the late wars the
seamen absconded thither ; there are now 1,000 seamen possibly ;
at last it will come to this, that we shall only send to buy their
fish, send ships to carry it to market, and it will be no more ours
than that of . New England is. The inconveniences to the trade
from it. 1. The inhabitants debauch at any rate the best seamen
and fishers from the ships to remain with them, which makes
seamen dearer to the shipping and leaves the parishes burthened
with their familiea 2. They destroy their boats, &c. 3. They
destroy their stages, which puts them to new charges, &c., lOOiL
per ship ; forced to part 2 months early (from) home to build their
stages. 4. They serve to debauch their masters, overseers, &c.,
which oppresses their seamen and causes wranglings, outrages,
&c. 5. Corrupt with wine, rum, &c., their common seamen and
fishermen. 6. Our ships in England lie by the wall, but of
what were formerly employed. 7. They possess themselves of
the best fishing places before the ships from England arrive.
N.B. As to inhabitants, there are (say Dartmouth) so many
planters as that every planter having 2 boats, every boat 5 men,
there are found to be 900 men in all, i.e., there are 90 planters.
For a Governor, [Weymouth]. 1. Destruction of near 150 m> young
trees by the stages being broke down, &c., and too big to be
repaired ; the Admirals themselves do it. 2. 50 m - trees destroyed
by being barked, for covering of stages, which at best will ruin
the trade by the decay of wood and make them go so much earlier
in the year. 3, 4. Throwing overboard their stones at the end of
the year, which spoils the harbour. 5. They destroy young cod to
bait withal. N.B. The French are but 12 miles from the English.
Dinage, i.e., small birchen reds cut down to lay between the fish and
the sides of the ship to keep them from bruising. 1700 planters
now, 1675, take 70 m - quintals of fish, i.e., - of the whole quantity
taken. Disadvantages of this trade. 1. They had great losses about
1657 and 1660 ; 1,200 ships taken by the Spanish, many of which
of the Newfoundland. 2. They go upon Bottomry at 26 per 100.
3. The French have great encouragements, go not upon Bottomry,
all victuals cheaper in France, foc. Till 1659 France was supplied
with all fish save boat fish by us, now they supply themselves all,
and all aboard, sell at as good or rather better rates than we do.
For a Governor and a plantation ; but of the mending(?), that is the
question, not as now by reason of the infinite Bottomry which
makes us not be able to trade with them long to the same market.
If that could be done this way, this were the best very much.
The advantages in this new way. 1 . This would make a less stock
to carry on the fishery and the fish come cheaper, less time to
catch them, no longer to entertain men and ships there, just to fetch
off what they have caught, and carry it to a market. 2. This
would make the fish better cured ; it would not otherwise go off,
at least not in a plentiful year. N.B. It happens that some months
are better fish and more than in another ; for none knows when it
will be a good or a bad year, till the time be quite over, and being
in different Bays they know not where it is good, where bad, &c., so
yT2'43. L
162 COLON I A L PAP E BS.
1674-77.
as the market is kept open. Boat-masters, all those that govern
the boats ; one man (for) each two. Trounsers are the goers on
least expense. New England fishery is at Piscataqua, where we
send to buy their fish. 60 ships at least come from New England
and Barbadoes, &c., yearly. N.B. A boat and company in the way,
the fishery now as managed cost* by an ordinary computation 551.
or 60?., whereas after the way of planters the same number of
men fishing, &c., costs constantly 75?. Ten boats going from home
from Dartmouth cost to fit out with all necessaries in all over
114?. 7s. lid, besides wood to build them carried from hence, salt-
men's wages, men's victuals. Every boat going from England the
Plantations way costs 43?. or 45?. certainly. N.B. The W.
country men carry out victuals at best rates from home, whereas
the planters going from hence, that is, boatkeepers going hence,
trust to the victuals they find there, and by that means are at the
mercy of the New Englanders. 100 tons have 10 boats. N.B.
Every person that passes to Newfoundland pays the passage, 3?.
going and 3?. coming, and 20s. per ton the victuals. These private
boatkeepers build upon in going from hence that they can buy
their provisions upon the place from New England, and so for
hooks and nets, baits, &c. A boatkeeper sells Mr. Gould at
24 reals per quintal, the Dartmouth men ask 26 reals, &c. As to
the price of fish. N.B. That no comparison can be made upon
the price at which fish either way was taken ; in regard it happens
by accident Jihat some sell dearer one part of the year, the others
at another season, as fish comes more plentiful. Generally speaking,
in the present way of fishing are for the boats, wages, victuals,
&c., and the is for the setting of the ship out, which is more
than in the case of the planters. If fishing could by that way (be)
managed, 45,000 quintals of fish taken at Piscataqua yearly, 60,000
quintals by 4 or 5,000 inhabitants. French : a vessel of 200 tons
in St. Malo costs 25,000?. fitting out, the charges only their wages
treble to England, though their victuals may be cheaper. N.B.
The New England men carrying their fish to Madeira bring thence
brandy, which, paying no custom, they carry it directly to New-
foundland and there sell it cheaper than we could do, and so
debauch our mariners, &c., and from New England they bring
rum which expressly conquers our men, and some of our seamen
being found 4?. in debt for brandy in a season, &c., which obliges
the man to stay there a year round and so to free his debt.
1677.
May 3. Objections against taking away the Planters. 1. Will not the
French come and take possession of the coast, and being once
settled there advantageously sure it will be hard to dispossess them ;
the planters are now 1,200 good men, &c. 2. Will you have these
1,200 men starve, where shall they go ? You would have them
tied without 6 miles from the shore, and yet you say that country
cannot be inhabitable, not passable. 3. One thing is to regulate
an abuse, another to undo so many families of our countrymen, &c.,
150 families, ],700 persons, some now living there that were born
there, and one above 60 years of age. 1. The planters have a
right to the houses they have built, and the western men have no
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 163
1677.
authority to disturb them ; why may not the planters fish as well
as the western men 1 They have liberty given them by the King.
Resp : They may fish, but must not remain and inhabit there, other-
wise than under the rules of 1633, i.e., not nearer than 6 miles, &c.
2. As to inconvenience, the planters are not of prejudice to the
western fishery ; by Sir J. Berry's report, &c., the planters preserve
the stages, succour the ships coming in, offer to give security to the
W. men to preserve their stages ; they are employed by the W.
men to keep their salt fish, &c. Resp : That is necessary against the
violences of the inhabitants, but if there were no planters there
could be no danger, no need of keeping them off the plantations,
not one has his house above | mile from the shore ; L. Baltimore's
is within a coit-cast of the water. There are 48 bays or places of
fishing in the English part, from Cape de Rays to Cape Bona-
vista, which is ?'0 leagues. St. John is the best bay, a good colony of
400 or 500 people. For the planters obj. to tenure. If the planters
were removed, would not the French seize themselves of the
English part. Resp: 1. Many English fishing places are now
without any inhabitants, and yet are never looked after by the
French. 2. Never have the French and English attempted to get
into possession of one another's parts. 3. N.B. Even the French do
not keep their part by a plantation, but satisfy themselves to go from
home yearly to fish, and are not planted. 4. If the question be of
right, the Frenclj could no more, according to the law of nations,
pretend to seize upon the English part if utterly void of plant, as
jureprimi occupantis, than if we were inhabited upon it all the year.
If the question be of force and in fact, even though they should
continue the planters, French would be easily able to overpower
them ; the planters are in no considerable force. Conclusions. If
it be thought necessary to continue the planters in order to keep
up the possession in law, or to be in a condition to resist by force,
then let them continue, but let them conform themselves to the
rules of 1633, 1660, &c., i.e., above 6 miles from the water
pp. 24-57, 69-73. In the handwriting of Sec. Williamson, which
is difficult to decipfor. [Col. Entry Bk., No. 98.]
L 2
164 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
1675.
Jan. 2. 406. List of papers relating to Surinam, 1574-1674, received from
Mr. Locke and delivered to Mr. Bridgeman by Mr. Sec. Williamson's
order, viz. :
8 Aug. 1674. Two passes in Dutch from the Stakes General for
Mr. Gorges and Mr. Cranfield to go to Surinam.
15 Nov. Pass in blank for a person and ship to be sent to
Surinam by the King.
Two letters in Dutch from the States to the Governor of Surinam,
sealed.
8 Aug. Extract of the resolution of the States General concerning
Surinam.
8 Aug. Translate of the States pass for Messrs. Gorges and
Cranfield.
8 Aug. Translate of the Extract out of the States Register.
21 Dec. Translate of the Extract of the States Resolution con-
cerning Surinam.
Draft of a Commission for Mr. Gorges.
Draft of Instructions for the Commissioners.
Nov. 15. Translate of the Extract of the Resolution of the States
concerning Surinam.
Nov. 15. Translate of the States letter to the Governor.
Translate of the pass for the Advice yacht.
Signed by John Locke. 1 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 1.]
Jan. 8. 407. Ciiveat for no pardon to pass to James Colletou for killing
Elisha Bridges at Barbadoes till notice be first given to Auditor
Bridges at his office in the Inner Temple. See No. 421. [Dom.
Entry BL, Chas. II., Vol. 45, p. 5.]
Jan. -%. 408. Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of the States
The Hague. General touching the departure of the English from Surinam. The
Pensionary Counsellor arid other Deputies fur Foreign Affairs,
having reported that they have been in conference with Sir Wm.
Temple, Ambassador Extraordinary of Great Britain, and had
examined with the Prince of Orange a reglement and instruction
for the Governor of Surinam, in reference to the 5th Art. of the
Treaty of Westminster of the T 9 F Feb. 1674, which reglement has
been approved with the advice of his said Highness, Ordered,
That the same be sent to said Governor with orders to execute it
in the fullest manner, and to afford every facility for carrying this
affair to a happy termination, and to receive the Commissioners,
Ferdinand Gorges, Edward Cranfield, and Edward Dickenson, with
all possible civility, and render them every assistance. And also
that copies of said reglement and this resolution be sent to the
States of Zealand, or their Deputies, requiring them to give orders
AMEKICA AND WEST INDIES. 165
1675.
that the same be punctually observed by the said Governor.
Further that there be put into the hands of said Ambassador 3
original copies of Resolutions and letters to be sent to said Governor,
and that 3 passports be expedited for the merchant ships America,
Roger Paxton, Master, and Hercules, Simon Orton, Master, and for
the Hunter, man-of-war, Richard Dickenson, Captain, which his
Majesty has appointed to convoy said merchant ships to Surinam.
Reglements and instructions from the States General to the
Governor of Surinam, for the execution of the 5th Art. of the
Treaty relating to Surinam, in 14 Articles. The first 12 are
identical with those submitted by the Council for Plantations (see
preceding Vol., No. 1367), excepting articles 6 and 10, which are
omitted, and a few additions to articles 2, 3, and 12, as noted in
Sir Wm. Temple's letter of |4 Dec. 1674 (see preceding Vol., No. 1403).
Article 13 provides that the Governor shall be obliged to name
Commissioners to adjust differences with those of his Majesty, and
particularly where his Majesty's subjects, who are indebted to
those of the States, have good debts, lands, beasts, &c., they shall use
their best endeavours to prevail upon creditors to accept same in
payment at the current price ; and in case they cannot agree that
prompt justice be administered by the ordinary judges. Article 14
provides- that in case his Majesty send a ship of war to convoy the
transports the same shall be permitted to accompany them into the
river of Surinam, and there remain till their departure. French,
10 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, 32-42.]
Jan. -$g. 409. The States General to the Governor of Surinam, enclosing
Hague. the above-named reglements and instructions, and enjoining him to
carry them out in the best possible way. French, 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, 43-44.]
Jan. -j^. 410. Passport from the States General for the Hunter man-of-war,
Captain, Richard Dickenson, which his Majesty of Great Britain is
sending to convoy the ships America and Hercules to Surinam in
pursuance of the 5th Art. of the Treaty of T 9 ^ Feb. 1 674 ; to suffer
the same to pass to Surinam, and return thence, without any
molestation, but on the contrary to afford all assistance when
required. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, 50-51.]
Jan. 12-14. 411. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. Most of the day
spent in debate of the Bill for Settlement of the Militia and the
amendments made by the Committee.
Jan. 13. Voted that the Bill for the Settlement of the Militia pass. That
for payment of the 200,000 Ibs. of sugar presented to his Excellency
and for discharging other the country's debts, 700,000 Ibs. of sugar be
levied on land and negroes, land paying 3 Ibs. per acre, and negroes
10 Ibs. per head, and that there be levied on St. Michael's Town
85,000 Ibs., Speight's Town 10,000 Ibs., the Hole Town 3,000 Ibs.,
and Ostin's Town 2,000 Ibs. ; two members nominated to draw a
Bill accordingly. A new Bill for Imposition on Liquors, drawn by
the Clerk, as the former Act is near expired. That said Bill be in
166 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
force for 12 months ; that Lt.-Col. Wm. Bate be Treasurer, and
Majors John Hallett and Edw. Yeamons, Capt. John Johnson, and
Francis Bond or Edward Hussey, Comptrollers ; and that the Bill
pass.
Jan. 14. Ordered, that the Bill for an Imposition on Wines and Liquors
imported pass ; that the Treasurer provide, out of the Excise on
Liquors imported, one ton of refined sugar to be presented with
the concurrence of his Excellency and Council to Capt. Chas.
Atkins of H.M.S. Phrenix ; that persons excused from Parish
Levies be also excused from paying for their land to this levy ;
that the Bill for the Levy on Land and Negroes pass ; and that
the Treasurer, with the concurrence of his Excellency and Council,
pay to his Excellency 200,000 Ibs. out of the first sugars received
from said levy. Committee appointed to consider the papers re-
commended by his Excellency from the Council of Plantations,
respecting defects in their laws, the Jews' petition, the complaint
of the Farmers of the 4 per cent., and his Excellency's speech, and
prepare answers thereto against the next sitting of the Assembly ;
and to consider such addresses as may be fit for the House to make
to his Majesty. [Col. Entry Bk, No. XIII., 135-139.]
Jan. 13, 412. Petition of Ferdinando Gorges to the King and Council.
Sets forth his right to the Province of Maine, where he has expended
20,0001., and his being dispossessed of the same by the power of
the Massachusetts, and prays to be restored to his just rights, and
for relief in the premises. Signed and endorsed, " Rec. 1 3 Jan 1 ?.
1674-75. Read at the Com tee for Plantations, 22 April 1675." [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 2.]
Jan, 13. 413. Petition of Robert Mason to the King and Council. Sets
forth the several grants made to his grandfather John Mason, of the
Province of New Hampshire, and his own right to the same, not-
withstanding the Massachusetts usurp an authority and disturb
the government and propriety belonging to petitioner. Prays his
Majesty to reinforce his commands for his just Iprotection, and to
restore him to the possession of his inheritance. Signed and en-
dorsed, " Rec. 13 Jan. 1674-5. Read at the Com tee for Planta-
tions, 22 April 1675." [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 3.]
Jan. 13. 414. Mem. That these Despatches, viz., the Instructions for
Capt. John Baker, the Original Letter from the States to the
Governor of Surinam, and their Pass (see ante No. 406), were
given to Mr. Pepys, Jan. 13, 1674-75. As also a copy of the fol-
lowing paper: Capt. John Thome, Mr. Andrew Knight, Mr. Elias
Elly, Mr. Hierome Westhorpe, these being the names of the prin-
cipal Planters of Surinam, it is convenient the Captain of Advice
ship repair to them for their assistance. 4 p. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No.XCIILfo. 127.]
Jan, 13-14. 415. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. Letter produced by his
from the Council of Trade and Plantations in relation
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
167
1675.
Jan. 14,
Jan.
to the defects of the Laws of the Island, to the end same be
rectified ; ordered after debate that said papers lie under con-
sideration until it be seasonable to send them to the Assembly.
The Assembly attended, to whom his Excellency said he would
consider the Militia Bill next Session, and gave them his Majesty's
letter about the 4 per cent., and the manner of collecting it, and
a paper from the Council of Plantations about defects in Laws.
Bill presented by the Assembly for a Levy on land and negroes,
also an order for 200,000 Ibs. of sugar lately given to his Excellency,
and a present of a ton of refined sugar to Chas. Atkins. Request
of the Assembly that care be taken that the arrears on coppers
and stills be gathered in. Four amendments proposed to the Act
for the Levy on land and negroes. Ordered, that the Bill this day
brought by the Assembly for the Excise, the Bill formerly sent by
the President and Council to the Assembly and not passed by them,
and copy of the Act of Excise in the Act Book, fol. 242, be sent to
Sir Peter Colleton to be considered. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XL,
284-286.]
416. Extract from the .Register of the Resolutions of the States
General. Consenting to the demand of the Ambassador of Great
Britain that they would write to the Governor of Surinam that
his Majesty had appointed Marc Brent as a Commissioner in place
of Ferdinand Gorges ; and ordering that copy of this Resolution
be sent to the States of Zealand, requiring them to give order that
the same be punctually executed by the Governor of Surinam ; and
further that 3 original copies of Resolutions and Letters be put
into the hands of the said Ambassador to be sent to the said
Governor by the safest and most convenient route. French.
2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. LXX VIII., 45-47.]
417. The States General to the Governor of Surinam, enclosing the
above Resolution. French. lm [Col Entry Bfc., No. LXX VIII.,
48-49.]
Jan. 20-21. 418. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. Conference desired by
the Assembly and agreed to. Resolved, on consideration of some
amendments in the Bill of Excise proposed by the Assembly, that
the clause, that in case of the Treasurer's death or removal the
Governor appoint another, be left out ; also, the two clauses about
the Council and Assembly drawing on the Treasurer for their
expenses, it being mutually agreed that they should bear -their own
charges in their Public Meetings ; but that the clause for settling
the Comptroller be adhered to, and that Major John Hallett be
Comptroller.
The Assembly attended with two papers, the continuance of the
Excise on Liquors, and a vote appointing a Committee to consider
the getting a convenient house for his Excellency ; also Bill for
continuing the Committee of Accounts, and three others for pay-
ment of gunners and matrosses. Ordered that three of the Council
be joined with the Committee named by the Assembly to answer
Jan. 21.
168 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1676,
several papers by his Majesty relating to the 4^ per cent., and
other papers. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk, No. XL, 286-288.]
Jan. 20-22. 419. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. Ordered, that whereas
divers persons, having made entry of wines, have long kept them,
with design to sell them at unreasonable prices, till they have
turned " eagar " and unsaleable, and then petitioned for abatement
of excise thereon, that in future no abatement of excise be made
on any wines, unless demanded within 3 months of entry. On
debate of the defects in the laws set forth by the Council of
Plantations, voted that in future the 80 days appointed in the Act
for Judicial Proceedings be taken off. To the 3rd clause in their
paper, the Assembly assert that sufficient provision has been made
by the Act of the 4 per cent. Voted that anything attached and
appraised for payment of any debt below the value of the effects
attached shall be divided, and part delivered to the creditor for
payment of his debt. The Bill for laying an imposition on wines
and liquors returned by his Excellency and Council with some
alterations ; the House, being unsatisfied, desired a conference
with the Governor and Council, on returning from which they
adjourned.
Jan. 21. On debate of that part of his Excellency's speech relating
to the multiplicity of Courts, voted that they continue as they are.
Also, on request of Richard Forde, Surveyor, that an Act be passed
to prohibit the copying, reprinting, or selling draughts of this
Island from the copy made by said Forde, without his licence, for
7 years, under a penalty of 2,000 Ibs. of sugar. That his Excellency
be requested to appoint some of the Council to join with their
Committee to prepare answers to the defects of the laws sent by
the Council of Plantations, and other papers recommended to the
Assembly. Resolutions, on debate of the alterations made by his
Excellency and Council in the Bill of Excise, to pass the Bill for
3 months only, and that it be presented with the reasons set forth,
and as it stood in Lord Willoughby's time ; and in regard they are
resolved to manifest their respect and service to his Excellency in
as full manner as they have to any other Governor, they promise
themselves that his Excellency and Council will not insist on such
alterations as will lessen the privileges former Governors have
allowed them. Voted that the Bill of Excise, with his Excellency
and Council's alterations, do not pass.
Jan. 22, The Bill for continuance of the imposition on wines and other
liquors till 23 April next, read and passed. That a law be pro-
vided according to the prayer of the petition of some of the Hebrew
nation ; also that Willjam Sharpe and 2 others be a Committee to
treat for a habitation for his Excellency. Bill for reviving the
authority of Commissioners for -settling the Public Accounts, read
and passed. Ordered by his Excellency, Council, and Assembly,
that the Treasurer pay out of the Excise on liquors imported, to
Edward Preston, Gunner of James Fort, 8,240 Ibs. of sugar for his
salary from 19th May 1673 to 12 Jan. 1674-75 ; and to the Gunner
of the Fort of Spights and his mate from the last May 1673, and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
169
Jan. 22.
Whitehall.
1675.
to the three Gunners of the Forts at Ostin's Bay from the 25th
June 1678 to this day, after the rate of 2,000 Ibs. of sugar per
annum each. Adjourned to Tuesday 6 weeks ; altered at his
Excellency's request to Tuesday 3 weeks. 6 pp. [Col. Entry
Bk. t No. XIII., 140-146.]
Jan. 21. 420. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Jonathan Atkins,
Whitehall. Governor of Barbadoes. Has his of the 9th Nov., with news of his
safe arrival at Barbadoes, where he wishes him all happiness, and
will be extremely glad if he can contribute to it. Would be glad to
knit such a correspondence with those parts as to know regularly
all that passes, especially what relates to trade and the general
interests of the Island ; and if the occurrents of this part of the
world be of any satisfaction to him, they shall be punctually sent.
p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XCIIL, fo. 128.]
421. The King to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes.
Having understood that one Elisha Bridges, of Bridgestown, in
that Island, has been lately killed by James Colleton and others,
whereby their estates will, in case they be found guilty, become
forfeited to his Majesty, he is to take care that the said estates be
preserved safe and entire, to be disposed of as his Majesty shall
hereafter direct. p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XGIII., fo. 128.]
Jan. 22. 422. Extract of a letter from the Deputies of Zealand at the
Feb. 1. States General to the States of Zealand. The Ambassador Extra-
ordinary of Great Britain has earnestly desired that the letters and
despatches, which ought to be sent to Surinam in virtue of the
Resolution of the States General of 8-18 Jan. (see ante. No. 408),
should be addressed to M. Van Benninghen, Ambassador Extra-
ordinary at the Court of Great Britain, to be delivered to those
his Majesty sends to Surinam, so that they may go at the same
time with the Resolutions. French. \\ pp. [Col. Entry J3k. t
LXXVIIL, 52, 53.]
423. The King's pass to Edward Cranfield, one of the four
gentlemen ushers daily attending his Majesty's person, whom his
Majesty has commissioned with others to go into the West Indies.
Recommends him to all Governors and officers, that they receive
him with all civility and favour, suffer him to travel where he
shall think fit, and see him accommodated with conveniency for it,
without debarring him entrance into any of his Majesty's towns,
castles, &c., at due hours, and take order for his transportation
into any other of his Majesty's plantations, or into England, as he
himself shall judge fitting. And all his Majesty's subjects are
required to give him their best assistance. 1 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 4.]
Jan. 28. 424. Minutes of Council of Antigua. Ordered, that all that
have claims upon the country bring them in to the Treasurer, so
that the debts and credits of the country be known ; that an Act
be drawn for the better regulating of the Militia ; that persons going
off the Island set up their names in both Falmouth and St. John's ;
Jan. 28.
Whitehall.
170
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
and that storehouses be discharged and suspended to all intents and
purposes. That an Act pass for each man's proportion of arms
and ammunition, and for encouragement to bring in arms and
ammunition. (See under date 23 Augt. 1670.) p. [Col Papers,
Vol. XXV., No. 55* ]
Jan. 30. 425. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Jonathan Atkins,
Whitehall. Governor of Barbadoes. This comes to let him know what is at
the bottom of his Majesty's desire (see ante, No. 421), that all care
be taken of the forfeitures arising on occasion of the killing of one
Bridges. His Majesty has granted those forfeitures to Lord
Sunderland, who has commanded this to engage his kindness in the
matter. Begs he will let his Lordship see he was not mistaken
when he took him in his friendship. Hopes his people? take care to
send regularly all the occurrents of these parts, in return of which
must beg what passes there constantly and a little at large. 1 p.
[Gol Entry Bk., No. XGIII.Jo. 128.]
Jan.-May. 426. Two Acts passed in the Island of Antigua, viz. : An Act
Antigua, for the better regulating and governing of the militia of this
Island, dated 28th Jan. 167f. 2 pp. An Act for encourage-
ment of the Royal African Company in England for the supplying
this Island with negroes, dated 3rd May 1675. 2 pp. Together,
4* pp. [Gol Entry Bk., No. L., 295-299.]
Feb. 2.
Jamaica
427. Considerations about the Spaniards buying negroes of the
English Royal Company, and receiving at Jamaica and at
Barbadoes. It is near 20 per cent, cheaper for the Assientistas to
give 110 pieces of 8 per head at Jamaica than at Curasao. From
Jamaica negroes may be easily transported to Sta. Martha, and so
to all the ports leeward as far as La Vera Cruz, and from Barbadoes
to all the windward parts of the Continent. The Spaniards need
not fear aggrandizing Jamaica by any such contract, for the
planters there believe it would be to their prejudice ; but were it
so, such a consideration comes too late, the Island being already
well fortified and peopled, and so planted that it will load 100 ships
yearly, so it is their interest to live well by a bad neighbour they
cannot remove. The English cannot give such apprehensions of
spoiling the trade as the Dutch have, for they have no slight or
counterfeit goods, or silks or linens which can be transported so
cheap vid Jamaica or Cadiz, and it is certain such goods for 3
or 4 years have been cheaper amongst the Spaniards than at
Jamaica. Nor is it to the interest of England the vent of their
manufacture by Spain should be interrupted ; but to prevent such
importations of goods the negroes might be transported in English
ships and delivered before officers that should see them immediately
dispatched. It is for the interest of England and Jamaica that the
Spaniards be preserved in possession of the countries they have in
the West Indies, and that the Franch grow not too strong on
Hispaniola ; tho reasons are obvious. Such a contract settled at
Jamaica would occasion a factory being there, and be a means of
more frequent advice from Europe. The ships hired for trans-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1676,
Feb. 8.
Nevis.
Feb. 9.
Whitehall.
portation of the negroes would awe, reduce, and punish all pirates,
and make them leave the Indies or that trade, which the Spaniards
cannot do, but at vast charge. Such a contract would make the
subjects of both Crowns have good correspondence, and make the
world see it is not for the advantage of the English to have any
other colony but Jamaica. It would also be fit the Assientistas
paid something more per head to his Catholic Majesty, which
would considerably advance the revenue. Endorsed, " Rec d on the
6 Dec. 1675." 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 5.]
428. Governor Stapleton to the Council for Plantations. Need
not recite the oftsn repeated grievances of these Islands bleeding
for redress, but beseeches them to consider them in this conjuncture
of peace. The Indians of Dominica have again committed murders
and rapines upon Antigua a little before Christmas last, whereupon
we empowered the Deputy Governor, Col. Philip Warner, with
6 small companies of foot, to go to Dominica to be revenged on
those heathens for their bloody and perfidious villanies, who killed
80, took some prisoners, destroyed their provisions, and carried
away most of their periagoes and -canoes, as their warlike vessels
are called ; his pretended brother, Indian Warner (reputed natural
son to Sir Thomas), fell amongst his fellow heathens, who, though
he had an English commission, was a great villain, and took a
French commission, which makes him suspect that these Indians
have been put on by those who made use of them in the late war.
Beseeches their Lordships to move his Majesty that they may have
some frigates as their neighbours have constantly relieved, and if
he does not destroy those heathens who have so often treacherously
spilled English blood, or at least render them incapable of assisting
their neighbours in time of war, let him be severely punished.
Must confess this design may be better effected by the Government
of Barbadoes, which is nearer and to windward, and no better
service could be performed for these inhabitants, who are forced
to watch continually for a heathen enemy, than their absolute
destruction, a thing easily to be effected, or at least to reduce
them to live on the main land. Endorsd, "Rec d by M r Scutt,
merch* 2 April '75. Read at the Committee, 17 June 1675."
H PP- [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 6.]
429. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Report of Sec. Williamson that his Majesty, having lately dissolved
the Commission for the Council of Trade and Plantations, ordered
that all things depending there should be brought to a Committee
of the Council Board as formerly, and he had now brought the
papers relating to the calling away of his Majesty's subjects from
Surinam, and a Commission and Instructions forthwith to be pre-
pared for the Commissioners going there. Draft of a Commission
to Edward Cranfield, Edward Dickenson, and Mark Brent read,
and several amendments ordered ; also a Draft of Instructions, and
several alterations made, the Dutch orders to be examined, and
these Instructions to be made suitable to what the States General
give in charge to their Governor of Surinam. Mr. Pepys to bring
3.72 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
in an account of provisions made ready for the negroes, and a
method for their distribution, and about the course of the voyage.
1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV., 1.]
(Feb. 9.) 430. " The present Instructions (for the Commissioners for
Surinam) compared with those given to Bannister," being notes by
Sec. Williamson of differences in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th,
and 9th clauses. Endorsed, " Feb. 9," &c. I p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 7.]
Feb. 10. 431. Petition of Rowland Simson, late Planter in Surinam,
newly arrived in England, to the King. That petitioner, with
others of his Majesty's subjects, at the time of Maj. Bannister's
going for Jamaica, was forced to abide in Surinam, the Dutch
Governor having privately given orders that none should buy the
plantations of any English that went off ; that he made ready for
the first opportunity to transport himself, but was disappointed
by the intervening of the late Dutch war ; that having now sold
his plantations, petitioner freighted the Golden Lyon of Surdam
(there being no passage but by way of Holland), and laded her
with 309 hhds. of sugar worth 3,500?., all his estate in the world ;
that said ship was taken by a French frigate off Scilly, 5th Dec.
last, and carried into Milford Haven, whereupon petitioner
obtained a warrant out of the High Court of Admiralty for her
arrest, which was executed by the Chief Marshal of the Port
26th Jan., and she continued under arrest till 31st, when the
captain of the French frigate turned said officer out of the ship
arrested by force, and sailed away with the prize (as is feared)
into some port of France. Prays for his Majesty's Royal letters to
the Most Christian King for restoring petitioner's goods, or for
satisfaction any way as his Majesty shall think fit. " Read Feb.
10th, 74-5. Nothing done." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 8.]
Feb.? 432. Memorandum by (Sec. Williamson) to look over letters
received from Sir Wm. Temple, and see what he says upon the
point of Zealand being to give orders or not about the business of
Surinam. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 9.]
Feb. 11. 433. Order of the Committee for Trade and Plantations.
Finding mention made in the orders of the States General of the
18th Jan. last concerning the bringing off of His Majesty's
subjects, with their goods and estates, from Surinam, of an instruc-
tion to be given to the States of Zealand to cause their said in-
tentions to be punctually observed by the Governor of Surinam ;
and finding that these orders from Zealand are not yet come,
ordered, that Mr. Sec. Williamson be desired to write forthwith to
Sir W. Temple, his Majesty's Ambassador Extraordinary at the
Hague, to obtain the same, and send over with all speed the
originals with authentic copies, in like manner as already obtained
from the States General, as the Committee think not fit to advise
that the Commissioners depart without, lest their whole business
should be overthrown. Draft with corrections. 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 10.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
173
1675.
Feb. 11-12. 434. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Feb. 11. Sec. Williamson acquainted the Board that the points in
which the late Council of Plantations, in their report to the King
of 27th Oct. last, thought it necessary for the States General to
give positive orders to their Governor of Surinam, had been
negotiated by Sir William Temple, and satisfaction obtained in
most ; that the States had sent the orders for their Governor, three
of each sort sealed up (one for each of our ships), and the translate
open and authenticated ; and that his Majesty had, in the Com-
mittee of Foreign Affairs, acquiesced in the points where the
Instructions did not agree with what was demanded. Said Instruc-
tions perused, and the States' supplemental order mentioning
Mr. Brent as one of the Commissioners instead of Ferdinando
Gorges, who had withdrawn. Ordered, that the present Instruc-
tions also conform to what was given in Instruction to Capt. Baker,
who went in the Advice boat ; that mention be made of the Prince
of Orange's letter granted in this behalf, but not open ; that great
care be taken to obtain from Zealand a concurrence with the orders
of the States, of which these orders seem to intimate the necessity,
and that the Governor of Surinam is commissionated by them ;
and that Edward Cranfield be first named in the Commission, then
Capt. Edw. Dickenson of the King's frigate, and Mark Brent last.
Feb. 12. Proposal of Mr. Cranfield to call at the Madeiras to
take in wine and provisions, and then at the Cape de Verd Islands
for salt, that if the Planters of Surinam might not have a good
price for their cattle from the Dutch they might bring them away
slaughtered. Ordered, that Sir R. Southwell write to Mr. Pepys to
consult the Lords of the Admiralty of what consequence in expense
and loss of time that digression might be, the Lords having advice
that some Dutch negro ships were designed to Surinam, whose
arrival might engage the English Planters in purchasing and con-
sequently in a stay there, which by all means was to be prevented,
there being hopes of that Colony's ruin by the coming of the
English away. Several points of the Instructions altered and
amended. Letters to be written to the several Governors of Plan-
tations for the kind reception of these Planters. 2 pp. [Col. Entry
Book, No. CIV., 2-3.]
Monday. 435. Saml. Pepys to Sir Robt. Southwell, Secretary to the Com-
mittee of Council for Plantations. Will take care to dispose of
the product he speaks of to the proper hands, if he shall command
him ; and will do the like as to directing the masters how to
dispose of themselves after the Surinam work be over. Will soon
find him out to adjust this more particularly. p. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 11.]
13 Feb. 436. Sir John Werdcn to Gov. Andros. Has not yet re-
st. James's, ceived any letters from him since his arrival, news of which is
come by the Exchange news, and particularly by Mr. Delavall,
whose correspondents in the parts adjacent have found ways to
inform him of most that hath happened about the time of Andros'
arrival there. Is under some impatience to hear what sort of com-
174 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
putation may be made of his future felicities in his plan which is
represented there under many different characters ; most especially
would fain to know how far the public revenues are likely to
support the public charges, the effects of his late moderating the
customs ; what likelihood there is of drawing more English to
inhabit there to compensate the discouragements they give the
Dutch, and whether the having obtained licences for a few ships
to go and come directly 'twixt Holland and England was heretofore
the great secret to raise the customs, and is still of that indis-
pensable necessity (as Mr. Delavall positively asserts) as without it
the garrison cannot subsist. The customs are now rated, in
Mr. Delavall's opinion (who really is a very knowing man), not
being likely to amount to near so much as shall defray the charge
of government. P.S. Nothing has as yet been done towards
adjusting Sir George Carteret's pretensions in New Jersey; pre-
sumes he will take care to keep all things in the same posture as
regards the Duke's prerogatives and profits as they were in his
predecessor's time till he shall hear of some alteration agreed to
there. Printed in New York Documents, III., 228-229. [Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. 70, p. 17.]
Feb. 17. 437. Saml. Pepys to Sir Robt. Southwell. Having endeavoured,
Derby House, but without success, to wait on him, this is to tell him that he has
some days since delivered to Mr. Sec. Williamson a memorial of all
he has to trouble him with touching the provisions to be issued to
the King's subjects in their transportation from Surinam, to which
paper he will please to be referred. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 12.]
Feb. 16-18. 438. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. Debate on the
papers recommended by his Excellency, viz., the letter from the
Council of Plantations touching the defects of the Laws, and his
Majesty's letter about the Farmers of the 4 per cent.
Feb. 17. His Excellency's Commission, sent for the inspection of the
Assembly, read and ordered to be entered in the Assembly Book
of Orders, as follows : Here follows the Commission, dated at
Westminster, 24th Feby. 1673-74 (see preceding Vol., No. 1185).
An Act appointing how the testimony of persons of the Hebrew
nation shall be admitted in all Courts, read three times and passed.
Ordered by his Excellency, Council, and Assembly, that the Com-
missioners for settling the Public Accounts order payment of
13,200 Ibs. of sugar to the gunner, mate, and matrosses of Charles
Fort, for salary for 5 months from the 25th Sept. last, out of the
arrears of former levies. An Act for taking off the 80 days after
execution, for future contracts, passed without the last proviso.
Feb. 18. An Act to confirm the Lease made by John Stanfast to his Ex-
cellency, passed. Answer drawn up to the letter from the Council
of Plantations touching defects in the Laws, considered and re-
ferred to William Sharpe to perfect against the next sitting of the
Assembly. The address of the Council and Assembly to his Ex-
cellency concerning the insupportable injuries done to the Island
and other his Majesty's plantations by the Royal African Company,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 175
1675.
read and communicated to the Council to amend if they see cause.
Adjourned to this day 5 weeks. 10* pp. [Col. Entry Bk,,
No. XIIL, 146-156.]
Feb. 17. 439. Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, to (the
Secretary to the Council for Plantations). Has received two of his
to his great satisfaction. His promised patronage is a great obli-
gation, and in this place he dares say they will not be ungrateful,
for he finds them very obedient to the King, and to himself so
conformable that they refuse nothing he asks. Of the Indians,
brought before his arrival from the Main by Capt. Wroth, some are
dead, but the rest shall be returned according to his Majesty's
commands, a thing designed by him before that they may keep
amity with those savages, the contrary having always been very
pernicious, especially to the smaller Leeward Islands. Doubts they
have for ever lost those people, whose friendship was so necessary
in time of war, to the great damage of the French. But by the
intemperate actings of one Warner, Lieutenant -Governor of
Antigua, by an action of the greatest inhumanity, who, from what
provocation he cannot yet tell, transported 7 companies to Dominica,
a dependent of this Government, without taking any notice of or
complaint to Atkins, Warner's brother, whom he assassinated,
having a commission from Barbadoes as Lieutenant-Governor
for the King, and being the only person in these parts that asserted
the English interest and suffered imprisonment and irons during
the war for his service to the King, and coming ashore, his half-
brother, for they had both one father, joined him with the Leeward
Indians to take account of the Windward Indians for injuries done
on Antigua ; but after the action he invites him and his party to a
treat, and having made them drunk with rum, caused vhem all to
be massacred, not sparing his brother or little children. Encloses
the examination of the master of the sloop, who was in the whole
action, wherein he will find a very tragical but he fears a very
true story, the man being a serious and intelligent man of his
quality. Had required a reason from his superior of the affront
done to himself in his Government, but the King's honour and
interest being so much concerned, thought it more fit to present
the matter to his Majesty. Encloses,
439. I. Deposition of Win. Hamlyn, commander of the sloop
Betty, of Antigua, aged 23, before his Excellency and
Council. In December last deponent was pressed by Col.
Philip Warner, Deputy Governor of Antigua, to go with
letters to Col. Stapleton at Nevis, and on his return was
again pressed to carry 34 men in his sloop to Dominica,
in company with two ships carrying in the whole 300
men, who arrived there on Xmas Day. Said vessels
were met by Thomas Warner, Deputy Governor for his
Majesty, who understanding Col. Warner's design was the
300 men should fall upon the Windward Indians for some
injuries supposed to be done by them to him on Antigua,
agreed to assist him with 30 Indians, and ordered 30
more to attend them to carry orders. Four Windward
176
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Indians were slain, and believes 30 at least were killed,
besides three that were drawn by a flag of truce to come
on board and there killed. After the dispute was over,
Col. Warner invited Thomas Warner and his Indians, to
the number of 60 or 70 men, women, and children, to an
entertainment of thanks, and having made them very
drunk with rum, gave a signal, and some of the English
fell upon and destroyed them. Afterwards an Indian
calling himself Thomas Warner's son came on board
Col. Warner's ship, and told him he had killed his father
I and all his friends, and prayed him to cause him also to
be killed, holding his head of one side to receive a blow,
which by Col. Philip's order was given him, and he was
thrown overboard. Deponent took an Indian boy in his
arms to preserve him, but the child was wounded in his
arms and afterwards killed ; believes this slaughter was
by the sole direction of Col. Warner, against the consent
of his officers, several of whom he heard declare against
it. In pursuit of the Windward Indians, two or three
English were killed in fight. Said Thos. Warner being
advertized that Col. Warner designed to kill him, replied
he was better assured of his kindness and fidelity, being
his half brother. Deponent heard Col. Warner order
Cornet Saml. Winthorpe to kill Thos. Warner, who re-
fused to do so. Col. Warner and hig men being in great
distress for provisions, were provided by Thos. Warner
and his Indians with what they could. Together, 5 pp
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 13, 13 I.]
440. Copies of preceding letter and deposition. [Col. Entry
Bk. } No. XLVI., 64-69.]
441. Warrant to the Duke of Monmouth, the Earls of Oxford,
Mulgrave, and Craven, Lord Duras, Col. John Russell, Sir Philip
Howard, and Sir Charles Littleton. Whereas Col. Francis
Lovelace, late Commander of the Fort of New York in America,
being committed to the Tower for not having defended the same,
has besought that Commissioners might be appointed to examine
him in order to clearing himself. His Majesty's pleasure is that
they or any five or more of them, taking the Judge Advocate to
attend them, examine the said Col. Lovelace concerning the
rendering of the said Fort and Colony to the Dutch in the
late war, and report to his Majesty what he has to say upon
the whole matter.* 1 p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. 28,
p. 125.]
Feb. 22. 442. Order to the Lieutenant of the Tower to send Col. Lovelace
Whitehall. a t such time and to such place as shall be testified under the hands
of the Duke of Monmouth, and the rest of the Lords and others
appointed to examine him. [Dom. Entry Bk, Chas. II., Vol. 28,
p.
Feb. 17.
Feb. 22.
Whitehall.
AMEKICA AND WEST INDIES.
177
1675.
Feb. 23.
Whitehall.
Feb. 25.
Whitehall.
Feb. 25.
Whitehall.
y 72843.
443. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. An
Order of Council of the 12th instant on petition of Mr. Hinton
proposing a Governor arid regulation of the fishery at Newfound-
land, read ; also said petition, and several papers annexed containing
reasons for settling a Governor, and the objections against one
answered. Ordered, that all the papers be found out which were
formerly urged (sic) in this matter contrary to what was settled in
Council by order of 10th March 1070-71 ; that the Lord Treasurer
be desired to be present at the next meeting on Thursday morning ;
and that meantime all proceedings in the Council relating to this
matter, what passed in the late Council of Plantations, and the
old regulations of~ 1633, be got together for their Lordships
perusal, they appearing inclined to the reasons alleged for the
necessity of a Governor. 1 p. [Col. Entry Book, No. CIV. t
3,4.)
444. The King to the Governor and Company of the City of
London for the Plantation of the Somers Islands, alias Bermudas.
Whereas his Majesty is informed by their petition that King
James, having granted said islands then uninhabited to them, with
power to make bye'aws for their management, and th;it they have
planted them and maintain them at a yearly charge of many
hundred pounds, which they have no other means to defray but
by the duty of one penny per Ib. on all tobaccos of the growth of
the islands, and that by the charter and laws of the Company no
member thereof ought to send or bring into or from the said islands
any goods but in the Company's magazine ships yearly sent for the
supply of the inhabitants and the bringing home the tobacco ; and
whereas one Perient Trott, a member of the Company, to avoid
payment of said duties, and in contempt of the laws of the Company,
has sent several ships to said islands, and clandestinely brought
over great quantities of tobaccos, and the better to carry on his
designs has obtained his Majesty's Letters granting him liberty to
bring any goods from said islands in any ships whatsoever, by
which the rest of the trading part of the Company would be dis-
3ouraged, the duties be unpaid, and they utterly disabled to support
he Company or preserve the islands, his Majesty in consideration
that said Letters were obtained by misinformation and surprize,
by these presents revokes and recalls them, and in particular those
of 17th August last, leaving said Perient Trott to be governed by
the laws of the Company. Mem. That another letter of same
date was directed to the Governor and Council in the Somers
Islands alias Bermudas, in the same form. 2 pp, [Dom. Entry
Bk. t Chas. II., Vol. 42, pp. ? -11.]
445. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. The
entries of what passed and was settled in the books of the late
Council of Plantations touching the Fishery of Newfoundland,
read. Order of Council thereon to be examined touching the truth
of the recital, and whether any provision was made in lieu of the
M
178 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
Earl Marshal's power for punishing crimes, as there directed. Two
petitions from the gentry, magistrates, merchants, and ship
owners in the west of England, read. Mr. Sec. Williamson to be
attended for a copy of the confirmation granted touching the
regulation of the fishery of Newfoundland. The Commissioners of
the Customs to be written to for some account of the product of the
Newfoundland trade, as far as they can trace it in their books. Sir R.
Southwell to write to Mr. Bertie, that some of the last captains
who sent convoys to Newfoundland be found out and spoken with,
or that those that have been secretaries to the Lord High Admiral
be spoken to for some of their journals. Resolved by their Lord-
ships to consider of a method of having journals from all merchant
ships going long voyages ; they proposed a continuation of Purchas'
History with relation to his Majesty's Plantations, but seemed to
mention some instruction given already in this matter by the Lords
of the Admiralty, and for finding out a fit person for this under-
taking. Ordered, that a minute of letters be sent down to the
magistrates of Southampton, Poole, Weymouth, Melcombe Regis,
Lyme, Exeter, Dartmouth, Plymouth, East Low, Foy, Falmouth,
Bideford, Barnstaple, and Bristol, to signify his Majesty's command
for the review of all things concerning the fishery and touching a
governor in Newfoundland, and that they immediately appoint
agents, and give full information of all they think advisable in that
affair. Ordered, that a summons be sent to the merchants of the
Exchange acquainted with the Newfoundland trade to attend on
Saturday. 1 pp. [Col Entry Book, No. CIV., 4, 5.]
Feb. 25. 446. Mem. concerning the provisions to be sent to Surinam.
Whereas provisions, to be accounted for by the respective masters,
are put on board the ships Henry and Sarah, Jo. Baker, master ;
America, Roger Paxton, master; and Hercules, Simon Orton,
master, for victualling his Majesty's subjects to be transported from
Surinam to some other Colonies ; and said masters are directed
before sailing from Surinam to prepare exact lists of the names of
the persons sent on board, with the day of the month each comes
on board, said lists to be attested by his Majesty's Commissioners
going thither, with their certificate of the number of persons, and
on their arrival at the plantations, before landing any of them, to
apply to the Governor of the place to appoint some person to make
lists, to be attested by said Governor, of the persons on board, and
who shall be landed, with certificate of the day each was landed ; and
lastly, to give account to the Governor of any victuals remaining,
and in his presence dispose of same at public sale by inch of
candle. Moved, That as well the Commissioners as the Go-
vernors, &c., of said places, receive directions to take such accounts,
give such orders and certificates, and do all other things con-
formable to the preceding directions to the masters. " The 25th
of Feb. 1674(-5). Received from Mr. Sec. Williamson, and to him
sent by Mr. Pepys. Read at the Committee the 27th ditto, and
to be inserted before the last Article of the Surinam Instructions."
2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 14.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 179
1675.
Feb. 27. 447. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. The
Whitehall. Instructions for Surinam again read, and some amendments made,
and a private Instruction ordered for persuading the planters rather
to pass into some other of his Majesty's plantations than return
home. The touching of the Commissioners at the Cape Verd
Islands forbidden, on the report of the Lords of the Admiralty, of
its great inconvenience. Ordered that the Commission and In-
structions be given to the Commissioners for perusal, that they
may represent anything they find to object to. Messrs. Gould,
Perrot, Scut, and several other merchants attended, who after
reading the papers before their Lordships were desired to discourse
their thoughts touching the business of Newfoundland. Mr. Perrot
was against any encouragement for a colony there, as a thing that
would destroy the navigation, nor did the country afford any
comfort to the inhabitants, according to a proverb in the west, " If
it were not for wood, water, and fish, Newfoundland were not
worth a rush." He affirmed that the French only inhabit one side
of the island for the beaver trade, and have a small fort for
defence against the Indians; none of our ports were fit to be
defended, except St. John's and one other, but they were sufficiently
defended by ice in the winter, and in summer by our own strength
at sea; the usual rule for manning our ships is 50 men io 100
tons ; the capital vended in commodities may be 150,000^. a year;
there may be 150 ships, that each boat with five men may catch
200 quintals in a boat, and all the boats belonging to. said ships
may catch 300,000 quintals, which may produce 300,000^., of which
the mariners may have one-third of the clear profit ; and nothing
so much discouraged the Adventurers as the inhabitants there, who
destroyed the woods and all that is left behind, got early into the
best places for fishing, and debauched the seamen by wine and
brandy, which they all sell. Mr. Gould was for encouraging a
colony, as the only way to catch fish cheap, and undersell the
French, otherwise the trade must be ruined; and one said the
French had 600 ships fishing on the bank. Messrs. Gould and
Perrot desired to consider of the whole matter and put their
thoughtsin to writing. The Lords of the Admiralty to be desired
to give Instructions to the next convoy to make several necessary
inquiries into the state of that island. Information to be sent for
to St. Malo and other parts of France of the number of ships and
their tonnage that go yearly to Newfoundland, of the regulations
by which that trade is carried on, what encouragement is given
to it, what their capital is, and what advantage they make yearly
by it. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk,, No. CIV., 6, 7.]
Feb. 27, 448. Sam. Pepys to Sir Robert Southwell, Secretary to tho
Committee of Council for Plantations. The Navy Officers all agree
in opposing the proposition of the Surinam ships of stopping at
Cape-de-Verd Islands for salt, as it would expose his Majesty to
ten times greater charge by loss of time and expenses, than what
the cost of so much salt to be carried hence (if that be thought
advisable) will amount to ; which he may please to communicate
to their Lordships in answer to their commands. 1 p. [CoL
Papers, Vol. 31, No. 15.]
M 2
180 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Feb. 27. 449. Notes in Williamson's handwriting of the evidence of
Messrs. Gould and Perrot before the Committee for Trade and
Plantations concerning the business of Newfoundland. 4 pp. See
also Williamson's note book on this subject, ante No. 405. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 16.]
Feb. 450. Four Acts and two Petitions made at a General Assembly
held at St. Maries (Maryland), the 12th day of February, in the
43rd year of the dominion of Coecilius, &c., A.D. 1674(-75), the
titles of which are as follows :
(1.) An Act empowering the Governor and Council to levy the
charge for making war or peace with the Indians.
(2.) For reviving of certain laws within this Province.
Petition of John Long, of the city of London, merchant.
Petition of Jacob Duhattoway, Anthony Briscoe, and Peter
Achillis, all resident and inhabiting within this Province.
(3.) An Act concerning what shall be allowed to the Grand
Juries that are summoned twice a year out of the body of the
Province to attend Provincial Courts ; and
(4.) For payment and assessing the public charges of this
Province.
Mem. These laws passed under the great seal of this Province,
Feb. 26, 1674(-75). Philip Calvert, Cane. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. LIIL, pp. 285-295.]
Feb.- April. 451. Three Acts, Laws of Barbadoes, passed in 1675, viz.:
(1) An Act appointing how the testimony of the Hebrew nation
shall be admitted in all Courts and causes, Feb. 17 ; (2) for taking
off the 80 days after execution, for future contracts, Mar. 25 ; and
(3) for regulating the gauge of sugar cask, April 15. Printed.
2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XV., 94-96.]
March 1. 452. Sir Robt Southwell, Secretary to the Committee for Trade
Whitehall. an j Plantations, to Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson. The Lords
of the Committee desire some information from St. Malo, touching
the number of ships set forth this year for Newfoundland, their
tonnage and number of men, the profit of that adventure estimated
at per cent., and the public and private Rules and Regulations of
the Fishery ; and, if possible, to know what is done in other ports
of France, that an estimate may be made of the whole numbers of
men and ships, the capital stock, and the product thereof yearly
to the public and to the King's Revenue ; and next to know what
garrisons are maintained on that island, and particularly whether
it be true that the plantation there is encouraged for the beaver
trade, and defence against the Indians, and does not at all meddle
with the fishing, but leaves that wholly to the ships and hands
that yearly come there. 1 p. (Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 17.]
March 1-2. 453. T\vo Acts passed by Col. Philip Warner, Governor, and the
Falmouth, Council and Assembly of Antigua, viz. : An Act for reforming
Antigua. Abuses in Storehouses, Manh 1. An Act for augmenting the
Yearly Allowance for Col Philip Wainer, the present Governor
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
181
1675.
of the Island, March 2, 1674-75. Endorsed, " Rec (l by the post
under cover from Col. Warner, then on board the Phenix, 18 April
1G7G." Together, 6 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 18.]
March 2--12. 454. The States of Zealand to their Deputies at the Hague. In
Middleburgh. compliance with theirs of the 7th inst., send enclosed (as has been
already done to the Heer Ambr. Van Benninghen) copy of their
letter of the 16th Feb. to Capt. Peter Vorsterre, Governor of
Surinam, by several vessels, that they may make use thereof for
the Public service. Enclosed,
454. I. Same to Capt. Peter Vorsterre, Commander of Surinam.
Send herewith all the Resolutions made by the States
General, with concert of the Ambassador of the King of
Great Britain, concerning the bringing off' from Surinam of
the English who are willing, with order precisely to govern
himself thereby. 1075, Feb. 6-16. Together, 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. LX XVI I I., pp. 54-55.]
March ?
March 3.
455. Mem. that the Prince of Orange's letter to the Governor of
Surinam was sealed up and so could not be here entered. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, p. 56.]
456. Tobias Burr, Mayor of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis, to
the Committee of Council for Trade and Plantations. Has received
their order of 25th Feb., and summoned the magistrates, with
the owners and masters of ships trading at the Newfoundland, and
taken an account of all the ports and places of that Plantation,
with the number of planters ; and also an account of the fittest
harbours to be fortified, which is now sent; and has appointed a
correspondent to attend their Lordships in this affair. Endorsed,
" Letter from the Vice-Admiral." Enclosed,
456. I. An account of the harbours on the North Coast of New-
foundland and of the planters resident there, all His Ma-
jesty's subjects, viz. : In Trinity Bay, 10 harbours, of
which Trinity is fit for a fort, and 17 planters with their
families ; in Conception Bay, 13 harbours, of which
Harbor de Grace is fit for a fort, and 29 planters and
families ; and in the Middle and South Coasts, 16 harbours,
of which St. John and Ferre Land [Ferry laud] are fit for
forts, and 44 planters and familus. Every planter keeps
two boats with 5 men to each ; in the whole 900 men.
Endorsed, " 3 March 74-" Together, 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, Nos. 19, 19 I.]
March 7. 457. The King's instructions to Edward Cranfield, his Majesty
Whitehall. Commissioner for Surinam. As soon as he has dispatched the business
at Surinam, to embark for such other plantations as he shall judge
convenient, observing the following general rules : (1) Not to
pretend any power of taking any account from any Governor, but
as a journey to satisfy his own curiosity, and on some design of
adventuring where he shall see the
greatest
likelihood of the
182
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
March 7.
St. Jago de la
Vega.
March 11.
Port Royal.
March 12.
Whitehall.
plantations prospering ; (2) under which pretence he may easily
inform himself of the value of plantations and of the taxes, trades,
oppressions, hazards, and profits, legal or illegal under the several
Governments, and particularly as dexterously as ^he can satisfy
himself in the following particulars. Then follow 22 inquiries,
being those usually sent by the Council of Plantations to Governors
of same, and in particular as to New England, to inquire, What
differences are depending between the Massachusets and the rest of
the Colonies about boundaries ? What differences in religion as to
doctrine and discipline? How the generality of New Englanders
stand affected to appeals to His Majesty ? Whether liberty of con-
science, trade and votes to elections be allowed equally to all the
people ? And, whether the Common Prayer be allowed or used by
any? He shall see St. Christopher's before his return, and strive
to inform himself of the true state of the difference betwixt his
Majesty's subjects and the French. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 20.]
458. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Present, Sir Thos.
Lynch, Governor, Sir Henry Morgan, Col. Chas. Whitfield, Col.
Thos. Ballard, Lt.-Col. Robt. Byndlosse, Maj. Anthony Collier, Sam.
Long, and John White. On reading the revocation of Sir Thomas
Modyford's Commission, it was the opinion that Sir Henry Morgan,
being constituted Lieut.-Governor under his Majesty's Sign Manual,
was, by a clause in said revocation under the Great Seal, sufficiently
invested with authority to assume the Government ; whereupon
Sir Thos. Lynch made a demission of the Government to him, and
it was ordered, that a proclamation immediately issue to continue
all persons in their employments, military and civil, till further
order. On notice given by Sir Henry Morgan of the shipwreck of
Capt. Knapman on the Isle de Vaca, it was the opinion that sloops
and boats be speedily sent to save so much of his Majesty's stores
as can possibly be preserved. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXV., 386-
388.]
459. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Present, Sir Henry
Morgan, Lieut.-Governor, Sir Thos. Lynch, Col. Chas. Whitfield,
Lieut-Col. Robt. Byndlosse, Maj. Anthony Collier, Sam. Long and
John White. Resolved that the Great Seal of the Island be placed
in Sir Henry Morgan's hands as being the present Commander-ill*
Chief. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXXV., 388.]
460. Order of the King in Council. His Majesty, having dissolved
his late Council of Trade and Foreign Plantations, has thought fit
to commit what was under tliejr management to the Committee of
the Privy Council appointed for matters relating to trade and
plantations, whose names follow ; that five be a quorum, and meet
at least once a week and report their proceedings to the King from
time to time. Sir Robert Southwell constantly to attend said
Committee. [Col Entry Bk., No. XCVL, pp. 1-2.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
183
1675.
March 12.
Whitehall.
March 12.
Whitehall.
March 12.
Whitehall.
March 12.
Whitehall.
March 12.
Plymouth.
March 13.
Falmouth.
461. Order of the King in Council. Appointing certain of the
Privy Council a Committee for matters relating to Trade and Foreign
Plantations, five of them to be a quorum, to meet at least once a week
and report to the King in Council their proceedings from time to time,
with power to send for all books, papers, and writings, with a list
of the Lords so appointed concerning said plantations. 2^ pp.
[Col Entry Bk, Vol. CIV., p. 1.]
462. Copy of the preceding with this mem : " In pursuance
whereof their Lordships, on 11 August 1675, signed a circular letter
to the Governors of his Majesty's plantations. [Col. Entry Bk,,
Vol. XCVIL, p. 7 ; also Vol. XCVL, p. 1.]
463. List of the Lords of the Privy Council appointed a
Committee for Trade arid Foreign Plantations. [Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. CIV.]
464. Order of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. That
all books and papers which were lately in possession of the Council
of Plantations be enquired after and taken into the Council Office
and a list made. Also that enquiry be made for globes, maps, sea
charts, and journals. That Mr. Slingesby, Dr. Worseley, and Mr.
Locke attend their Lordships to give account herein. [Col. Entry
Bk, Vol. CIV., p. 9.]
465. William Weekes, Mayor of Plymouth, to the Committee of
Council for* Trade and Plantations. Has communicated their orders
of the 25th February to the Corporation and all others concerned
in the Newfoundland trade, who have unanimously concurred in,
and sent up their opinions to be presented to their Honors, and
have appointed two correspondents to attend them. The like
remonstrance and reasons were presented to the Lords of the
Council in 1670, since which there is nothing new to offer. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 21.]
466. Wm. Arundel, Mayor of Falmouth, to Sec. Sir Joseph
Williamson. Has, in order to the commands of the Privy Council,
consulted with the inhabitants of this Corporation, concerning the
state of Newfoundland, the number and force of the planters, and
the situation of the ports and harbours, a short narrative whereof is
enclosed. Endorsed, " R. 19, 167." Enclosed,
466. I. A description of the harbours of Newfoundland, with
their inhabitants from Cape Bonavista to Cape de Race,
being as much as is at present inhabited by the English.
Bonavista, with 15 or 16 inhabitants, road very foul ;
Trinity, with 10 or 12 inhabitants, a very safe harbour ;
Bay of Veares, with 3 or 4 families, a small dangerous
cone ; Carboneare, with 5 or 6 families, an indifferent
good harbour ; Harbour Grace, with 14 or 15 families, a
harbour of great safety, but dangerous without a pilot ;
Port Grave, a small harbour with 3 or 4 families ;
184
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
March 15.
Port Royal.
March 17.
Weymouth.
March 17.
Nevis.
Harbour Maine, in Conception Bay, with 2 or 3 families ;
Belle Isle, an island without inhabitants ; Tor Bay, a
small fishing cove with 5 or 6 families ; St. John's, with 50
or 60 families, the best port in the whole land, and of
very great security if fortified with a castle ; many ships
load there, and more would if it were fortified, for then
merchants would have encouragement to leave their estates
there, who now adventure no more than needs must ;
Pettye Harbour, a small port with 3 families ; Bay of
Bulls, with 10 families, a large bay where the convoys
make up their fleets in time of war ; Capelyn Bay, with
about 6 families ; Cape Broyle, a good harbour with no
inhabitants ; Trepastye, 10 leagues west of Cape de Race,
with 5 families, a bold harbour and farthest to the west
in possession of the English. Together, 2i pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, tfos. 22, 22 I.]
467. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Present, John Lord
Vaughan, Captain General, &c., Sir Henry Morgan, Col. John Coape,
Col, Chas Whitfield, Lieut-Col. Robt. Byndlosse, Lieut-CoL Thos.
Fuller, Maj. Anthony Collier, and John White. His Excellency's
Instrument of government under the Great Seal read, wherein his
Majesty's Council were likewise appointed. The Oaths of Allegiance
and Supremacy administered to him by five of the Council according
to his Majesty s' command, also the oath as Captain General and
Governor-in-Chief of this Island. The Oaths of Allegiance and
Supremacy administered to the Council, also an Oath to be just and
faithful Councillors, disclosing none of his Excellency or his
Majesty's secrets, and revealing whatever they shall find prejudicial
to his Excellency or tending to the disturbance of the Island or
Government ; an Oath as Lieutenant-Governor ; Sir Henry Morgan
likewise took an oath. Ordered, that all officers, military and
civil, continue in the execution of their several offices till further
notice. [Got. Entry Bk, No. 'XXXV., 389-391.]
468. Nath. Osborne to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson. Yesterday
came in a small vessel from Newhaven, Win. Serrell master, who
says that on Monday last there were 2 men-of-war there to convoy
their Newfoundland ships, who were to call at St. Malo for the
fishing ships and to have 8 men-of-war more from Brest to attend
the fishermen going from several places of France, who will be very
numerous this year. Endorsed, " Wey mouth, 17 March, R. 19,
p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 23.]
167*
469. Governor Stapleton to the Council for Plantations. Be-
seeches them in behalf of the officers and soldiers of his Majesty,
two standing companies in St. Christopher's, to move his Majesty to
pay their arrears and establish some fund for their future subsistence.
They live in a most miserable condition amongst the poor inhabitants
who are not able to give them any subsistence, and it is a disparage-
ment rather than anh onour to the nation to have soldiers naked
and starving in the eyes of the French, who have officers and soldiers
in good equipage and very well paid. Prays they may be paid,
- AMEKICA AND WEST INDIES. 185
1675.
continued and recruited, for should there be a breach, their neigh-
bours are four to one on St. Christopher's. The Lieutenant who
presents this, goes on purpose to know his Majesty's pleasure
herein. Endorsed, " Read at the Comm** 6 , 17 June 75." 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 24.]
March 17. 470. Reasons tendered by Geo. Pley for a settled government
Weymouth. i n Newfoundland, for the prevention of several abuses and for
security and encouragement of trade. The yearly destruction of
250,000 young trees and 50,000 bigger trees, the burning of the
woods and throwing overboard press-stones into the harbours (see
" Capt. Robinson's Paper " in preceding volume, No. 369). After the
" caplew-scull " used for bait is gone, the fishermen shoot their lance
seines for bait, and take an infinite number of young cod, which are
of no use, enough to load all the ships in the land. The French have
harbours in the north at the Bays of Foggs and St. John's, and
round all the land to the south as far as Trepasse, with a strong
fort at the Harbour of Plaisance, but 12 miles from the English
at the bottom of the Bay of Trinity. It is therefore offered that
Trinity, Harbor de Grace, St. John's, and Ferryland are the most fit
harbours to fortify ; that no fires be made in the woods in summer
time when they go to fetch " dinnidge " for their ships, in regard
the grass and mess is then so dry that many miles of woods have
been burnt, so that in some harbours they are forced to go many
miles for timber ; and that the articles made for regulation of the
country may be sent to the mayors of the port towns to deliver
each master a copy, and that in the articles a strict order be made
to the Admiral of every harbour to charge each master to observe
them, the harbours being so distant that a governor cannot inspect
all. Ifc pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 25.]
Mar. 17-18. 471. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Present : John Lord
St. Jago de la Vaughan, Governor, Sir Henry Morgan, Lieutenant Governor,
Vega> Col. Thos. Freeman, Col. John Coape, Col. Chas. Whitfield, Col.
Thos. Ballard, Lt.-Col. Robt. Byndlosse, Lt.-Col. Wm. Ivey, Lt.-Col.
Thos. Fuller, Maj. Anthony Collier, Hender Molesworth, and John
White. Col. Thos. Freeman, not being named a Councillor in the
Instrument of Government, his Excellency produces a Privy Seal
for the admission of him into the Council, who thereupon took the
usual oaths. Col. Thos. Ballard, Lt.-Col. Wm. Ivey, and Hender
Molesworth, Esq., likewise sworn of the Council. His Excellency's
instructions, received from his Majesty with the Instrument of
Government, read. Ordered, on reading the 14th Instruction for
the encouragement of persons of different opinions in matters of
religion, &c., that proclamation be forthwith issued, that his
Majesty's indulgence may be known ; and on reading the 17th
and 18th concerning the re-enacting of the laws and transmitting
them to England, &c., ordered, that writs be immediately issued for
calling another Assembly at St. Jago, 26th April, and that the
following proclamation be forthwith published by beat of drum :
Whereas by his Excellency taking upon him the government of
this island, the Assembly called by the late Lieutenant Governor, Sir
186
COLONIAL PAPEES.
1675,
March 18.
March 18.
Whitehall.
March 20.
Derby House.
Thos. Lynch, to meet on the 18th Feb., became immediately dis-
solved ; nevertheless, to avoid all scruples, his Excellency hereby
dissolves said Assembly. Ordered, upon the 21st and 22nd In-
structions, that Sir Thos. Lynch, on notice given him, deliver to
his Excellency and this Board an account of all arms, stores, and
ammunition remaining in this island ; and, upon the 28th Instruc-
tion, that he attend the Board ten days hence with all accounts
and papers relating to his Majesty's 1 5th and other duties, and all
other public monies which have been passed through his hands.
Ordered, on reading a proclamation from his Majesty concerning
the Royal African Company, with a letter from the Privy Council
of 2nd December last, importing the speedy publication thereof, that
said proclamation be forthwith published by beat of drum, and set
up in some public place.
Proclamation, in accordance with his Majesty's instructions :
That no persons in this island be molested by reason of difference
in opinion or practice of religion, nor be compelled against the
scruple of their conscience to take the oaths of allegiance and
supremacy, they, by some other form of asseveration, securing their
allegiance to his Majesty and the Governor of this island, then all
such shall enjoy the same rights and privileges as any other of
his Majesty's subjects ; provided always, that they be content with
a quiet and peaceable exercise of their own religion, and presume
not by reviling language or other indecent actions to disturb those
of different persuasions ; and that nothing herein be construed to
excuse any person from performing all duties and services, military
and civil, for better security of this island. Proclaimed by beat of
drum at St. Jago and Port Royal, Mar. 19th, 1675. [Col. Entry
Bk., No. XXXV., 391-397.]
472. Journal of the .Committee of Trade and Plantations. A list
given in by Mr. Locke, late Secretary of the Council of Plantations,
of all papers he had received from Dr Worseley, but for globes and
maps he never had any. Ordered, that Dr. Worseley give account
whether he knows of any other papers than these. Discourse with
Mr. Cranfield about some points of his instructions ; a mistake in a
master's name, viz., Simon Orton for John Broad to be amended.
Also with Messrs. Child, Perrot, Scut, and others touching the
business of Newfoundland. Letter read from Mr. Gould, showing
the necessity of a colony for fishing cheap, and for the safety of the
island, against which all urged many reasons. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. CIV., 10.]
473. Saml. Pepys to Sir Robert Southwell, Secretary to the Com-
mittee of Council for Plantations. Has come back a little out of
sorts, otherwise had visited him and his Doomesday Book. En-
closed is copy of the Charter party of one (which, with the notes
annexed, serves for the other two also) of the ships hired for
Surinam ; and also copy of the instructions to the masters, which
is what his letter of yesterday commands. Finds in said papers
the master of the Hercules called George (not John) Broad, and
does not know why it is not Simon Orton ; but if the Dutch papers
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 187
1676.
call him Orfcon he must be contented to go by that name for this
turn, as he believes another ere this obliged to do in behalf of
Baker, master of the Henry and Sarah, whose illness at his de-
parture left little hopes with his merchants of his surviving half the
voyage. But more of this and everything else when he sees him on
Monday. Enclosed,
473. I. Charter party of affreightment of the ship America,
of London, of 494 tons burden, between the Commis-
sioners of the Navy and Roger Paxton, master, hired for
6 months certain and 6 months uncertain for a voyage
from London to Surinam, where Paxton is to take on
board all such of his Majesty's subjects, their families,
servants, negroes, goods and chattels, and transport them to
such port in the West Indies as shall be appointed by said
Commissioners or their agents. Said ship to be manned
with 40 men, and furnished with 20 pieces of ordnance,
sufficient ammunition, 40 tuns of water cask extra-
ordinary for passengers, and 2 good boats; and to be
ready by the 1st Jan. next to take in such stores as said
Commissioners shall think fit (provided they be no more
than the ship may reasonably carry), and to be at
Gravesend by 5th Jan., ready to sail with the next good
wind and weather. In consideration whereof said master
is to receive 2S51. per mensem during the voyage, two
months in advance, viz., 285., and the value of 285. in sea
victuals provided for his Majesty's ships. On breach of
covenants he is bound to the Commissioners in the penalty
of 1,000?.
Like charter party, the 20th Nov., with Gregory Page
and George Broad, Master of the ship Hercules of 484 tons
burden, with 3G men, 10 pieces of ordnance, sufficient
ammunition, and 30 tuns of water cask.
The like charter party with John Baker, master of the
Henry and Sarah flyboat, of 300 tons burden, with 28 men,
10 pieces of ordnance, sufficient ammunition, and 20 -tuns
of water cask. 1674, Dec. 4.
473. II. A bstract of above charter party for the ship America.
473. in. Instructions for Capt. John Baker, Master of the Advice
Boat (Henry and Sarah) appointed to go to Surinam,
being the same as the Draft of 22nd Dec. with au
additional clause that he is to take care not to use
any threats to such of His Majesty's subjects as shall
not be willing to come off. 1675, Jan 20. Together, 8 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 26, 26 I., n., in. ; also Col.
Entry Bks., No. XC III., pp. 124, 125, and No. LXXVIU.,
pp. 23-26.]
March 20. 475. James Houblon to [Sir R. Southwell], Begs pardon that
London. he did not wait on the Lords as desired, though mighty unwilling
to talk in public, but was prevented. Is altogether a stranger to
188 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
the point at issue, though Mr. Sec. Williamson told him there was
an intention to send a Governor and Colony to Newfoundland to
retrieve that trade. The reasons of the decay of this trade are :
(1.) The infinite losses sustained by taking English vessels at sea
for want of protection, this trade being driven in vessels of little
defence, especially in the Spanish Wars 1657 to 1660, when were
lost 1,200 ships, a great number being fish ships, to the great im-
poverishment of Plymouth, Dartmouth, Lyme, Poole, and other
fishing towns, which they have never recovered, but are forced to
take up moneys on Bottomry at 20 and 22 per cent., so that in
bad years more than all the profit goes to the usurer, and in good
years they cannot get a step forward, and so in time will dwindle
to nothing. (2.) The mighty increase of the French in this trade
since their treaty with Spain, the French merchants being mightily
encouraged by the King, with money out of his Treasury, towards
building ships, and convoys allowed them ; their wages, shipping
and materials are cheaper, and the most mighty men of St. Malo,
Rouen, Dieppe, Nantes, Rochelle, Bourdeaux, and Bayonne, employ
their stocks this way, and have good defensive ships of 1 2 to 24
guns ; so that by supplying the Spanish and Italian markets better
and cheaper, they increase and we dwindle ; for before their peace
with Spain, all the markets of France were supplied with dry fish
by the English, but now they not only supply all their own
markets, but mate the English in Portugal, Spain, and Italy. It
seems a necessity for the State that this trade be not lost ; and
hearing that all particular interests, even of the west country towns,
must not be in competition with the general good, is afraid that
any new contrivances to continue in the old way by sending ships
and men yearly out will not counterpoise the weakness in stock
of those in possession ; and therefore if those who propound making
a plantation of Newfoundland can make out that it will but set us
on even ground with the French, it would be to be embraced.
There are seeming advantages of a plantation, viz. : (1.) Fish may
be cheaper made employing far less stock ; for whereas a vessel
with 60 or 80 men takes up 1,200. or 1,500?. stock, and spends
five months out of nine going and returning, building stages and
catching bait, during which they do nothing for the provisions they
eat, this will be saved if only planters made fish, and the ships
going yearly to fetch fish would carry salt provisions and other
necessaries. (2.) Fish would be made with much greater care,
every planter striving to outdo his neighbours to get customers, and
prevent its being left on his hands. (3.) Fish being better and
cheaper, merchants would be more invited to deal in it, the west
countrymen make contracts for fish before their ships go out, so if
they miscarry or have a bad fishing, this contract is void and the poor
contractor bears the damage of sending his ship to Newfoundland
and back for nothing ; and the planters being sooner at work and
having all things fitted to their hand and their whole livelihood
depending upon it should catch more fish. But there must be
mighty care in choosing a Governor, he must be a plain industrious
man cut out for his business, for such a trade will not endure
tyranny or charge ; and in his judgment the planters should choose
AMEEICA AND WEST INDIES.
189
1675.
a Governor amongst themselves and make their own laws. The
main objection may be the clamour of the West Country Corpora-
tions, who may plead that they will be put out of a trade at once,
which it is certain in time would be left not only to them but to
the whole nation ; but thinks the interest of a few towns must
not come into competition with the whole ; besides, they or their
agents will be the first planters, and may profit much more by this
undertaking than by the old, and is sure it will better answer their
small stock. Is of opinion that so far from causing us to have less
shipping and seamen, we should in time have more, as being the
only probable means to get this trade from the French, without
which it will be in a few years given up to them ; and of what
consequence that would be, is troubled to think. But having never
heard the arguments on both sides, begs leave hereafter to be of
another opinion when better informed, being indifferent as to his
particular. 8 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 27.]
March 21. 476. Sir J. Williamson to John Leverett, Gov. of Massachusetts.
Has received his favour of 30 Dec., in his and the Council's name
concerning the Expectation, but, the interested having not yet
appeared, nothing further has been done save to have it read before
his Majesty and the Foreign Committee ; will give him notice, as any
thing further is resolved, so far as it may concern him or his colony.
Offers his services in anything for the interest of his colony or
himself. Hopes he will oblige him now and then to let them hear
what passes in those parts of any kind. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. 93, p. 1296.]
March 21. 477. Th. Fair, Mayor of Southampton, to the Committee of
Southampton. Council for Trade and Plantations. In obedience to their order
of 25th Feb., has convened the Corporation and others concerned
in the Newfoundland trade, ;md some Masters that have used that
employ above 20 years, who say that the English Plantation from
Trapazi to Bonavista is about 80 leagues, within which are many
convenient harbours which are named, wherein about 1,000 English
Planters are commonly resident all the winter, and in summer
4,000. The French Plantation is in the Bay of Placentia, with a
fort with 14 guns and 40 or 50 soldiers ; and being not above six
miles by land from the English at the bottom of the Bay of
Trinity, the French draw away many English, intermarry with
them, and bring up much of their fish against the coming of their
ships. They also say that the stages they build to cure their fish
are broken down by the planters in the winter, causing the mer-
chants to send their ships a month sooner than otherwise they need
to make new ones. The masters last year at Newfoundland
positively affirm that five ships of St. Malo were laden at Bonavist
and Trinity Bay, nnd that as many more are this }'car designed
under the disguise of Jerseymen, to the great prejudice of English
navigation. Assures them this formerly flourishing but now
decayed town in trade will always be ready to their utmost to
advance his Majesty's interest-, and would think themselves happy
to receive eiicoum-vment. 1 ^. [Cut. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 28.]
190 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
March 22. 478. Proposal of Edward Cranfield about distribution of pro-
visions (to be sent to Surinam). Presumes the principal consideration
moving his Majesty to send the provisions was to accommodate the
poorer sort of people and not to feed the richer planters or their
negroes, or indeed any, while at sea which would be no kindness
to rich or poor, for all people in plantations have always sufficient
provisions in the ground to support them till the season for pro-
ducing new, which being taken up will serve them during their
transportation and be more eligible when fresh ; but when their
own are spent, these provisions will support them till they can
procure new, which will be the greatest encouragement to overseers,
millwrights, carpenters, and other artificers, the useful men in
settling new Colonies to come, for otherwise they would become a
prey to any that would take advantage of their indigence. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 29.]
Mar. 23-24. 479. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Mar. 23, Surinam. On reading over his Instructions, on the pro-
position of Mr. Cranfield, his 10th Instruction was quite altered,
so as to leave it to the Commissioners' judgment what provisions
to be allowed, to whom, and when. Ordered, that Mr. Pepys give
the masters of the vessels orders to issue the provisions as the
Commissioners shall direct.
Mar. 24, Surinam. Messrs. Cranfield and Brent attended. The
10th Instruction was quite changed, and with the rest read and
approved, and the blank in the Commission was filled up, for
now came that letter from Zealand which the Lords thought so
necessary, as appears by their order of the llth Feb. (see ante,
No. 433). Ordered, that in the letters to the Governors abroad,
where double the quantity of land is promised to those who
remove, that expression be omitted in the letter to the Governor of
Barbadoe.=, all the land there being in property already. 2 pp.
[Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV., 11, 12.]
March 24. 480. New method of Instructions for the Masters of the mer-
chant vessels Henry and Sarah, America, and Hercules, hired for
Surinam, as to the distribution of provisions, being to the same
effect as the Mem. (see ante, No. 446) ; but Masters are to be
directed, in lieu of the method already given them from the Officers
of the Navy, to issue said victuals to such persons only, in such
proportions, and at uich times, dressed or undressed, whether at
their coining aboard, during the passage, or after their being landed
in the respective colonies, as they shall be directed in writing
before their departure from Surinam by. one or more of the Com-
missioners. If their Lordships approve this, the Commissioners
must be directed to see that their warrants to the Masters for
issuing these provisions answer to the particulars herein stated,
and to attest a list of the passengers with the Master of each ship;
the Governors of the respective colonies also attesting other lists of
the passengers landed, with certificates to the Masters of any pro-
visions put to sale, and the proceeds, with express directions to
notify to the Lords of the Committee or Officers of the Navy any
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
101
March 24.
Jamaica.
March 25.
Whitehall.
1675.
complaints by passengers of failure in the Masters to execute said
warrants. Endorsed, " Rec d from M r Pepys, 24 March 167.''
3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 30.]
481. Lord Vaughan, Governor of Jamaica, to the Lords of the
Council. Received on arrival their Lordships letter off 2nd Dec.
last, with his Majesty's Proclamation concerning the Royal African
Company, which he has ordered to be proclaimed, and will do his
utmost to see punctually observed. " Reced. and read in Council,
June 23, 75." 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 31.]
482. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. Several
Newfoundland merchants appeared to debate about the fishery of
Newfoundland, as Messrs. Child, Jas. Houblon, Newland, Scut, and
Perrot (who had been often in New England), Mr. Rider, the
Recorder of Dartmouth, and the Agent from Weymouth ; also a
letter read from Mr. Gould, still opposing the present way of
sending our ships, advising a colony, which also Mr. Houblon urged
by many arguments, presenting accounts of charge attending the
way of fishing by ships. A large letter from him of the 20th inst.
to Sir R. Southwell read (see ante, No., 475) great debate thereon ; he
condemns the present method, proposes more advantage by inhabi-
tation as the way to catch more fi?h, and much cheaper. That the
French would inhabit too, and this would help to extinguish our
nursery of seamen, to which he answered that, if so, it would
extinguish that of France, which were to our advantage, since they
had no other nursery, but we had several, as Newcastle, &c.
Against this opinion two papers were given in by Mr. Perrot.,
showing the mischiefs of inhabitants, that the French manage their
trade as we do, and proving by accounts that our Adventurers
catch fish cheaper than the fnhabitants, who are forced to idleness
and debauchery a great part of the year ; also that we keep a
superiority over the French in all the foreign markets, except in
France, where we vend none, the French catch more green fish on
the bank, and at Bilboa the Spaniards affect their dry fish as
looking somewhat fairer than ours. The debate put off till the
30th inst. 1^ pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV., 13, 14.]
March 25. 483. "Some modest observations and queries upon the last
debate before the Committee of Lords for Newfoundland, by an
Englishman only concerned for the public good of his King and
country." It is agreed by all parties that the interest of England
in relation to Newfoundland consists in keeping up and improving
the fishing trade, for advancing his Majesty's customs, increasing
seamen and ships, vending English commodities, enriching English
merchants and consequently the nation, and hindering the French
in allthese particulars. The question is, then, whether these ends
will be best effected in case the fish be taken by the inhabitants of
Newfoundland or by the summer traders and English merchants,
or by both as formerly without a Governor. His Majesty's customs
arising from merchandise purchased by the fish, the English must
take such quantities and at such cheap rates as to undersell and
192 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
discourage the -French, as instanced in the sugar trade .with Por-
tugal. Arguments on the fish query, whether the inhabitants on
the place may not afford to sell to our merchants cheaper than
the merchants can catch fish, which the Western Merchants deny,
And say that the inhabitants lying idle all winter is equivalent
to their summer charge ; that, if they come only to buy, the in-
habitants will exact upon them, and say it is all one to buy of
the French ; that there will not be so much English provision
spent, nor so many seamen nurtured. Replies to these objections.
It will easily be resolved whether the best cure will be by taking
away the inhabitants and leaving the possession for the French, or
by encouraging inhabitants, sending force, and settling a Govern-
ment. When there was no king in Israel, every roan did what
was right in his own eyes ; where no Governor, no government ;
laws are of no effect where no magistrate ; and where no order is
confusion. Answers to the objections that a Governor was useless
because he cannot go to all places in his charge by land. As to
the merchants' particular gain, the particular must submit to the
general good ; but is it not the most gain to the merchant to buy
so cheap that he can undersell his neighbours, utter the greatest
quantity, make the quickest returns without men and ships lying
idle, sell the provisions he would spend, and avoid the grievances
he complains of? But if the fishing be carried on as now, a
Governor will be necessary to see good order between merchants
and inhabitants, or if by the fishing ships alone, yet, to preserve
his Majesty's propriety, force and fortifications will be necessary.
It were much pity that in this case any English heart or head
should take up the fancy of the Irish, who articled against Lord
Stafford for a great oppressor, because he would not let them draw
their horses by the tails as they were wont, but enjoined them the
better way of harness ; for all the arguments against encourage-
ment to inhabitants and settling a Governor seem strongly to imply
a necessity of both. Endorsed, "March 25 th 1675." 5 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 32.]
March 25. 484. P. Beckford (Deputy Secretary of Jamaica ?) to Sir Joseph
St. Jago de la Williamson. Lord Vanglum arrived en 13th inst. at night and
landed at Port Royal ; next day his commission was read, and he
was entertained as well as the island could afford; loth, he
remained on Port Royal, viewing the fortifications ; came next day
to St. Jago, being received at the seaside by 150 horse and a
company of foot, besides the gentlemen of the country and 7 coaches,
all which attended him to the town, where he was received with
2 companies of fcot, and dined with Sir Thos. Modyford. After
dinner his Commission was read with great solemnity. Since then
he has been wholly entertained by Sir Thos. Lynch and Sir Thos.
Modyford to both of whom he shows great respect. Within two
days his Lordship called his Council, where it was ordered that
there should be proclaimed the King's Proclamation concerning the
Royal Company, toleration of religion, dispensing with the oaths
of allegiance and supremacy where there was scruple of conscience,
and the dissolution of the former Assembly. Writs were also
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 103
1675.
issued for an Assembly to meet 2Gth April next. Being informed
that his Lordship resolved to curtail the Secretary's place .nil he
could, told him the injury would lie on Beckford and not on the
Patentee of whom he had rented the place for 3 years ; but what
did the greatest service was Sir Joseph's letter, his Lordship
promising not to do any injury to the place so long as his time
lasted in it. Prays him once more to write to his Lordship. 1^ pp.
[Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 33.]
Mar. 25-26. 485. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. The Assembly
having sat 3 several times by adjournment, according to the rules
of the House, Col. Chris. Codrington was re-elected Speaker. Upon
reading a petition and complaint of Edwyn Stede, Provost Marshal
of this Island, to his Majesty against one of his Majesty's judges of
the Common Pleas of this island, wherein the Assembly are falsely
and scandalously reflected on, resolved, that the House address
themselves to his Excellency and Council for reparation for said
abuses ; and that the foregoing vote, with copies of the petition and
complaiut therein mentioned, be presented to his Excellency.
Edwyn Stede's petition to his Majesty, with a reference from his
Majesty to the Council of Trade and Plantations, dated 19th
Nov. 1G73, and statement of " the case of Edwyn Stede " annexed ;
and also the opinion of the Council for Trade and Plantations, dated
8th March 1 674 (see preceding volume, No. 1 238). An Act for taking
oft' the 80 days after execution for future contracts, passed with the
addition made by his Excellency and Council. Three members
nominated a Committee to prepare and present to the House in the
morning a petition to his Majesty concerning the many grievances
put upon the island by the Royal African Company, and to move
for the uses of the 4 per cent, and trade with Scotland.
March 26. Voted that the Speaker in behalf of the House request his
Excellency and Council that Edwyn Stede, Deputy Secretary, be
suspended from all his public offices in this island till he have justi Hod
or cleared himself of the false and scandalous reflections on tho
Assembly in his petition and complaint to his Majesty. Ordered,
that the Treasurer inspect the account of Benjamin D weight for
accommodation of a Committee of the Council and Assembly lor
one day, and pay what shall appear due out of the Excise on
liquors imported. An Act for regulating the gauge of sugar cask
read and passed. Answer to the collection of the detects of the laws of
Barbadoes, drawn up, read, passed, and communicated to the Council.
Voted, that the Treasurer may disburse 10,000 Ibs. of sugar for the
needful repair of the house of John Stanfast. That the Treasurer
inspect the account of Paul Gwynn for accommodation of the
Assembly, also the charge of the former Assembly at his Excellency's
arrival, and pay what shall appear due out of the Excise on liquors
imported. 7* pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XIIL, 157-1G4.]
March 28. 486. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Whereas
Sir Peter Colleton, Bart., has informed his Majesty that his brother
JamesColleton, Gent., having been violently assaulted and wounded
by Elisha Bridges, alias Blackney, a Constable at Bridge Town in,
7 72849. N
194
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Barbadoes, happened to kill Bridges, and that several concerned in
the fact have been acquitted, it is his Majesty's pleasure that a Bill
be drawn to pass the Great Seal containing a grant of pardon to
said James Colleton for killing said Elisha Bridges, alias Blackney,
and of all penalties and forfeitures by reason thereof, with a
TiOTi obstante of the Statutes of 13 Richard II. and 14 Edward III,,
and such other clauses as are usual (see ante, Nos. 421, 425). [Dora.
Entry Bh, Chas. II., Vol. 28, p. 151.]
larch. 28. 487. The King's Commission to Edward Cranfield, Edward
[Richard] Dickinson, and Mark Brent. Whereas by Articles of Sur-
render of the Colony of Surinam, agreed upon between Col.Wm.Byam,
late Lieutenant-Qeneral of Guiana (sic) and Governor of Willoughby
Land, and Commander Abraham Crynsens, Admiral of a squadron of
Zealand ships, dated on board the ship, Zealand, 16 March 1667, it
was provided that if any of the inhabitants should at any time
intend to depart, they should have power to sell their estates, and
the Governor should procure them transport at moderate freight
with their estates, which Articles were confirmed by the Treaty of
Breda, and fully ratified by said Crynsens and others at Surinam,
the $$ April 1668; but not having been performed were, by the
late Treaty of Westminster, of -^ Feb. 1673, agreed to be executed
without any manner of tergiversation or equivocation for which
purpose the States General have at length issued their Orders of
the T \th and kh J an> 1675, and the States of Zealand likewise
issued their orders of 16 Feb. 1675 to the Commander of Surinam,
Captain Peter Vorsterre (to conform to said Order of the States)
that it shall be lawful for the King to send one, two, or three ships
at a time to Surinam, and thereon to embark his Majesty's subjects
there, their estates, goods, and slaves. His Majesty has constituted
the above-named Commissioners to demand and effect the entire
execution of said Articles and Orders, and particularly of what is
agreed as to the liberty of his Majesty's subjects to transport
themselves thence with their slaves, goods, and estates ; and in
order hereto to treat and conclude with the Governor of Surinam
or such Commissioners as he shall appoint, on all differences arising
in the execution of the premises, and to do all other things
necessary thereto, His Majesty promising to ratify whatever shall
be concluded by them. Draft with corrections. 4 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 34.]
March 28. 488. Fair copy of preceding with blanks filled in. [Col. Entry
Whitehall. Bks. t No. XCIIL, 130-131., and No. LXXVIIL, 5-9.]
March 28. 489. The King's Instructions to Edward Cranfield, Richard
Whitehall. Dickinson, and Mark Brent, for the execution of his Majesty's
Commission for bringing off his Majesty's subjects with their slaves,
goods, and estates from Surinam. To use their best endeavours
speedily to arrive at the River of Surinam, and there arrived, to
give notice to the Governor of their arrival, deliver the letters from
the States General, Prince of Orange and States of Zealand, and
acquaint him with the tenor of their Commission, and demand a
. AMEEICA AND WEST INDIES. 195
1675.
time and place of meeting to settle all things necessary for the
transport of his Majesty's subjects, their slaves, goods, and estates,
and that he publish within 3 days the orders now sent him as
directed by the States General. But before such meeting, to desire
a convenient time of conferring with his Majesty's subjects, and to
insist on a speedy permission to notify to the planters their errand ;
and accordingly send ashore discreet persons acquainted with the
planters, to acquaint them with his Majesty's gracrous provision of
shipping and conveniences for bringing them, their slaves and
estates, from Surinam to such of his Majesty's plantations as they
shall think fit to settle in, and particularly how his Majesty has
written to the Governors of the Caribbees and Jamaica, to use them
kindly, and proportion to all double the quantity of land by the
head usually allowed to planters, and to take care that they be
furnished with provisions and other necessaries at moderate rates
till they can produce them themselves. No one of them to be liable
to satisfy debts that were confiscated to the Province of Zealand by
virtue of the Articles of Surrender made by Col. Wm. JByam. To
adjust with his Majesty's said subjects the time for embarking;
who must each one give in his name to the Governor ten days before
embarking to avoid threats to any who shall not be willing to leave
the place, and to see that the Governor observe that the States
directions against menaces or other means to procure their stay.
To press punctual payment of debts owing to his Majesty's subjects
by the Dutch, which the Governor is directed to endeavour to do,
and prrticularly to press for satisfaction for cattle, provisions, and
other goods taken from them Jby the Governor during the war, and
for which he became debtor in his books, and to prevent any artifice
for obstructing them on this pretence. The greatest difficulty his
Majesty can foresee will be in adjusting the debts due from Ids
subjects to the Dutch, for the adjusting and determining of which
directions in detail are given. To make the best acoommo lation
the shipping will permit for his Majesty's subjects, their families,
servants, slaves, goods, and utensils for making sugar, endeav out ing
with the Governor's assistance the hiring of other ships at moderate
rates if necessary. But if on the contrary, by the unwillingness of
his Majesty's subjects to depart, there is no occasion to employ all
the ships sent, to dismiss such of them as are not needed ;
if stay of his Majesty's subjects should arise from any obstruction
from the Officers of the Colony to protest against the Governor,
as in all cases where they fail in the execution of those orders,
delivered to the Governor from his superiors. As soon as they
are freed from Surinam, to sail for Barbadoes, St. Christopher's,
Jamaica, or other of the Leeward Isles as his Majesty's subjects ishull
respectively desire, and they have promised at Surinam for their
settlement, and there land them with their goods, hiring other
conveniences in case any of them desire to be scattered to sia-h
places as their shipping cannot supply. Directions concerning the
supply of his Majesty's provisions for the relief and support of his
subjects, whether on the voyage or when they land, having especial
regard in the distribution to the poorer sort, as overseers, mill-
wrights, boilers, carpenters, and other artificers, And because the
17 2
196
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
March 28.
Whitehall.
March 28.
Whitehall.
March 28.
Whitehall.
March 28.
Whitehall.
masters will account for said provisions, to prepare lists of the names
of persons put on board each ship, with the date of embarkation,
and how to be victualled, which lists, with certificates of the
respective Governors where the persons land, shall be a sufficient
voucher to the masters when they come to pass their accounts
before the officers of the Navy ; directions in case of complaints by
passengers if the masters fail in the execution of their orders, or if
the're be any surplus victuals. Lastly, to make diligent .dispatch,
giving information from time to time to the Secretaries of State,
sending duplicates of all that occurs, pursuing such further in-
structions as they shall receive, and when the ships are emptied,
leaving them to the prosecution of their sailing instructions. Draft
with corrections. 14 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 35.]
490. Two fair copies of preceding. [Col, Entry Bks., No. XCIIL,
131-134, and No. LXXVIII., 10-20.]
491. Additional private instructions to the above-named Craufield,
Dickinson, and Brent. Although directed in the 7th Article of
their Instructions to protest against the Governor if he obstruct the
coming away of any of his Majesty's subjects, they are to make it
their principal care to accommodate all things in an amicable manner,
making the best benefit of the orders now sent in favour of his
Majesty's subjects, and to urge thereon any further fair and reasonable
demands, but not to make any breach on refusal ; and though they
are to protest against the Governor for refusal of any point wherein
he ought to consent, not to omit to accept performance where the
Governor complies with what he is ordered. If they find any of
his Majesty's subjects refusing to quit that place unless they may be
transported for England, Virginia, or other his Majesty's Colonies
below Jamaica, to agree to their desires, as Mr. Baker in the Advice
boat had instructions to make them such promise, but as much ns
possible to persuade them to go to the other plantations with their
companions. Draft with corrections. 1 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 36.]
492. Two fair copies of the preceding. [Col. Entry Bks.,
No. LXXVIIL, p. 21, and No. XCIIL p. 135.]
March
493. The King to the Governor of Virginia. Recommending
Edward Cranfield, Richard Dickinson, and Mark Brent, who his
Majesty has sent as Commissioners to Surinam, to take care of and
embark all the King's subjects willing to leave that Colony and
settle themselves in any other of his Majesty's plantations, and com-
manding him to receive with all kindness and friendship such as
desire to settle under his government. Mem. That similar letters
were sent to the Governors of the Leeward Islands, and to Barbadoes,
and were first put into Sir Robt. Southwell's hands at the Committee
for Plantations, 30th March 1675 (see No. 504). 2 pp. [Col. Entry
Bh, Vol. 93, p. 53.]
494. An account of his Majesty's plantations in America,
governed by Proprietors, Corporations, Companies, or by
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
197
1675.
Governors immediately appointed by his Majesty. The plantations
governed by his Majesty's immediate Commissions are Virginia and
the Province of Accomack, Jamaica, &c., &c. 3 pp. [Col. Entry
Bk. t Vol. 97, p, 1,]
March 29. 495. Account by Capt. Dudley Lovelace, of the Dutch fleet on
the coast of Newfoundland, in 1673. Capt. Dudley Lovelace of
New York, with 50 soldiers all prisoners, in several Dutch ships,
were brought on the coast of Newfoundland, 4th Sept. 1673, and
carried into Ferryland Harbour, where the enemy plundered and
destroyed cattle, household goods and stores belonging to the
following inhabitants, viz., Lady Kirke, Lady Hopkins, George and
David Kirke and their brother, Wm. Jones, Ez. Dibble, John Kent,
Phil. Davis, Wil. Robins, Chr. Holland, John Heard, Robt. Love,
and many others, to the value of 2,000?., and took four great guns,
the fort being out of repair. The day following, 30 fishing boats
belonging, as the inhabitants said, to Nix Nevill of Dartmouth,
cum soriis, were burnt in the Harbour, as much fish as the ships
could carry taken, and the inhabitants forced to send six hogs and
a bullock to each ship, as a composition for what the Dutch left
behind. On the 9th the Dutch plundered Will. Pollard's house,
3 miles distant, of fish, stuff, provisions, and household, amounting
to 400?., and burnt there 40 fishing boats, warehouses, &c., besides
taking several prizes to their general rendezvous at Fioll (Fayal).
Names of the Dutch Commanders and ships, viz., three ships of
40 guns and one of 36, under Admiral Nich. Boes. "To the truth
of this I am ready to depose, Dudley Lovelace." 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 37.]
March 29. 496. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Sir Thos. Lynch
St. J&go de la praying a longer time for bringing in his account of arms and
ammunition, by reason of the sickness of Col. Theodore Gary,
Captain of Fort Charles, ordered, that Sir Henry Morgan, Lieut.-
Col. Robt. Byndlosse, and Col. VV. Beeston receive and examine
the account, and make return thereof to his Excellency. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. XXXV., 398.]
497. Warrant to the Attorney-General. To prepare a Bill for
the Royal Signature to pass the Great Seal, containing a Grant to
William Killegrew, Esq., of the office of Surveyor-General of Jamaica,
void by the forfeiture of [Wanfc]Burford, late Surveyor-General there,
to exercise the same by himself or his sufficient deputy for life,
with all fees and advantages enjoyed by said Burford or any other
person (see No. 515). 1 p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. H., Vol. 14,
p. 134.]
498. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. New-
foundland. Several merchants attended as Messrs. Houblon, Gould,
Child, Perrot, Scut, Pollexfen, Herne, Braddyl, Newland, the Re-
corder of Dartmouth, fee, and Mr. Hinton, the petitioner, who
could urge nothing but what was expressed in his papers. Mr.
Houblon urged some calculations showing that though the French
out-did us in cheapness of victualling at sea, it was balanced by the
Vega.
March 30.
Whitehall.
March 30.
Whitehall.
198 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
excessive wages, &c., they pay, nnd that the French could not sell
cheaper than we, but rather otherwise. Then calculations were
urged to show how much dearer it was to the adventurers than to
the planters to catch fish which was impugned to the contrary,
which seeming to be made out did much incline the Lords because
of the nursery of seamen to adhere to the old way, and especially
when Mr. Child urged that a colony at Newfoundland the more it
prospered the less it would be to the advantage to Old England, for
it would adhere to and depend on New England, and be no more
to his Majesty than Ireland. If no colony then no Governor ; nor
could one be maintained out of the fish trade, nor the same regula-
tions imposed as in other plantations, the fish being all the proper
vent of foreign markets. A paper of 10 reason* by Mr. Perrot
read, and all the merchants discourses except Messrs. Houblon and
Gould's the same way ; the Lords seemed to conclude against a
Governor, but thought the trade should have some better regula-
tion and government, and would meet on Thursday to examine
the progress of the French, and what may be fit to secure us against
their augmentation there. 1 pp. [Col. Entry Bk. t No. CIV.,
14, 15.]
March 30. 499. Richard Hooper and Thomas Gearing, Mayors of Barn-
staple and Bideford, to the Council for Trade and Plantations.
Have received their Honors orders of 25th Feb. last, relating to the
settlement, government, and trade of Newfoundland, and consulted
with those concerned in those matters, and now deliver their
opinions which are contained in nine articles, and identical with,
being almost word for word the same as, the Report of the Council
of Plantations [see preceding volume t No. 362 iv.]. Conceive
nothing can more conduce to the encouragement and increase
of the trade than the continuance in the ancient way, without
imposing a Governor, which would be a great burden and hindrance
to their voyages for the reasons stated. Because a Governor cannot
be maintained without a tax on the fish, train, &c., which the poor
fishermen cannot bear, and though it should be small, it would be
a great hindrance to loading their ships. The land being well nigh
as big as England, with many harbours and landing places and
the inhabitants few and unarmed, it is impossible for a Go-
vernor without a very great force to prevent the incursion of nn
enemy. There is no need of a Governor, for the masters are well able
to govern their seamen and fishermen, and the inhabitants being
few and scattered, it is not possible for one Governor to prevent
abuses of the planters ; it is therefore desired that no planters be
suffered to winter in that barren wilderness at all, for these
reasons : Because they generally keep tippling houses and debauch
the seamen and fishermen on the Sabbath days ; they purloin
victuals, salt, and fishing necessaries ; they pull down stages when
the ships are gone, for firewood and covetousness of the nails,
spikes, bolts, &c., which would serve next year, so that the ships
are enforced to go a month the sooner, to the expense of victuals
and tiring out of the fishermen ; they possess the best fishing places,
so that many ships have their voyages almost spoiled for want of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
199
1675.
conveniences ; and in time of war the planters shelter the seamen,
who nre thereby kept from his Majesty's service ; lastly, that the
country itself is a mere rocky barren soil incapable of cultivation
not capable of improvement, and fit only for fishing. Names of
the ports with the numbers of planters living there, total, 23 ports
and 43 planters ; no forces or fortifications in any of them, nor
any alien inhabiting there. Send these reasons by Richard Harris,
whom they have appointed their correspondent in this affair, to
attend their Honours. Endorsed, " Received from Mr. Harris,
7 April 1675." 3 pp. [CoL Papers, Vol. 34, No. 38.]
March 30. 500. Copy of part of the preceding from " Names of the ports, &c."
Endorsed by Williamson. 1 p. [CoL Papers, Vol. 34, No. 39.]
March 30. 501. A List of the Papers and Despatches delivered to
Mr. Cranfield at his departure as his Majesty's Commissioner for
Surinam under the broad seal. His Commission and Instructions
and the private ones ; the Articles of Breda ; the Treaty of Feb.
1673-74 ; Articles of surrender by Crynsens and Byam ; copies of
Major Banister's despatches, and of John Baker's Instructions by
the Advice boat ; circular Letters to the Governors abroad ; copies
of the points advised by the Council and of the charter parties and
sailing orders ; the Orders and Despatches from the States General,
including Resolution of the States on Sir Wm. Temple's demand
that order be given for executing the 5th Article of the Treaty of
J 673-74, their Instructions for the Governor of Surinam, and a
fresh letter to him to execute them punctually ; Resolution of the
States General to have Brent's name put in for Gorges', and order
to the Governor to admit him ; three passes from ihe States
General for the frigate and two- flyboats ; extract from the Deputies
of Zealand's letter to their principals for their orders to accompany
those of the States General ; and States of Zealand's letter to their
deputies at the Hague, enclosing copies of their orders to the
Governor of Surinam of the 16th Feby. 1674-75 ; with memorandum
of receipt of the above by Edw. Cranfield from Sir Robt. Southwell,
30 March 1675. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 40.]
March 30.
502.
1-4.]
Copy of preceding. [Col Entry Bk., No. IX XVIII.,
(March 30.) 503. Memoranda of various Papers and Despatches mentioned
above, viz. :
A list of such papers as Mr. Cranfield is to receive out of Sec.
Williamson's office.
Papers delivered to Sir Robt. Southwell, March 30, 1675.
Despatch for Surinam.
Draft list of Despatches for Surinam.
Orders and Despatches from the States in the matter of Surinam,
in the handwriting of Sec. Williamson.
Together, 4 papers. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 41-44.]
200
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
(March.)
March 31.
Whitehall.
March.
504. Circular Letter from the King to the Governors of the
Plantations. To receive with all kindness such of his Majesty's
subjects as shall be brought from Surinam by his Majesty's Com-
missioners, Edward Cranfield, Richard Dickinson, and Mark
Brent, proportioning to each planter by the head double the
quantity of land usually allowed to others, and taking care that
they be provided with provisions, if necessary, at moderate rates ;
and account thereof as herein set forth. To examine complaints of
passengers of any failure of orders given to the masters, and give
account thereof to one of his Majesty's Secretaries of State and to
the Officers of the Navy. Endorsed, "Draft of a Letter to the
Governors of Plantations in favour of those of Surinam, viz., to the
Gov r of Barbadoes, Leeward Islands, Jamaica. M d , that to the
Gov r of Barbadoes, he be not ordered to allow the planters double
quantity of land, there being none to spare, but to favour their
settlem* the best he can. And quaere, if the Gov r of Barbadoes,
S r J. Atkins, have the Leeward Islands under him, or that they
remain under Col. Stapleton." 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 45 ; also Col Entry Bk, No. LXXVIIL, 27-29.]
505. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Jonathan Atkins,
Governor of Barbadoes. This comes only to give cover to enclosed
packet of ordinary occurrences; and till he has the occasion of
doing him more considerable service, means to continue paying his
respects in the little newses of these parts, in return for which
still begs what passes in those parts, with particular information of
the present state of those Colonies, especially Barbadoes, as well for
the satisfaction of a man's curiosity, as for their necessary informa-
tion. In margin, " With Collections of News and Gazettes from
Jan. 20 to 29 March 1C75." [Col. Entry Bk. t No. XGIIL, fol. 137.]
506. Robert Mason's title to the province of New Hampshire.
John Mason was appointed Governor of Newfoundland in 1616,
and, along with Sir Ferdiuando Gorges, was the first to whom a
patent was granted by the Council of New England, with a large
tract of land called New Hampshire ; expended upwards of 20,000.
on the province, and died about 1638, leaving his widow to execute
the estate during the minority of his grandson, Robert Mason.
Captain Norton, one of her stewards, was brought to account by
his successor, Joseph Mason, and cast in great sums of money, to
avoid the payment of which he went into the colony of
Massachusetts, and entered himself a church member of the
Boston congregation, and incited the Massachusetts to seize on
New Hampshire, while the heir was under age. Thus suiting their
design of making themselves a free State, they invaded New
Hampshire and compelled the inhabitants to submission, and im-
posed taxes and tried to compel the agent and heir to comply with
their usurped power, but were not able. Robert Mason has always
prosecuted his right since he came of age, and has spent about
700L on it. He had addressed several petitions to the King,
offering to resign his grant, and asking for relief against the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 201
1675.
Massachusetts. After an examination of these complaints by
several persons of quality at Doctors Commons, they gave a report
to the King in Feby. J661, setting forth Mason's right to the
province and the losses he had sustained, to the amount of 5,000?.,
but leaving the means of righting him to the King, it being a
matter of State. In 1665 Commissioners were sent, who, not
meeting with a civil reception at Boston, went to New Hampshire
and Maine and found a welcome reception and ready compliance,
and declared these countries to be out of the government of the
Bostoners. The inhabitants of the two provinces are willing to
comply with the King's wish of establishing his government there,
and all the masts sent to England in the Great Duke o York were
cut off Robert Mason's land. Another commission for settling
boundaries was agreed upon in 1671, but was stopped by the Dutch
war. This being ended, Robert Mason and Ferdinando Gorges
propose to resign their grants to the King and take others with
less privileges. 8 pp. Two copies. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 46,
47.]
April 1. 507. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Newfoundland. Resolved to report to his Majesty their full appro-
bation of the rules and orders settled in Council, March 1670-71 ;
but that masters return journals to this Committee in lieu of the
Council of Plantations. A new reference to be made to the King's
Council to know how crimes in that place shall be tried and
punished, and that the Western Mayors take out a new charter
with the additional powers in the said order mentioned ; to which
resolution, and of having no Governor or Plantation, all concurred,
except the Lord Privy Seal. Ordered, that living within 6 miles
of the shore from Cape Race to Bonavista be made a high crime
according to the rule of the Charter, the Lords supposing most
would come away if debarred from license in that particular. That
the Western merchants attend on the 8th inst., to advise on the
following points, whereof they were to have notice: (1) What
amendments could be made to the former rules, what impediments
in the trade removed, and what neglects in the execution of rules ?
(2) What fit instruction could be given to the convoy now goinir,
to make " himself " useful there ? (3) How the French proceed in
their trade as compared with the English ; their victuals, wages,
way of curing fish, &c., and how rich were their Adventurers ?
(4) How to invite the planters, since this point was so much
insisted on for a better establishment for the future ? 1^ pp. [Col.
Enti-y Bk., No. CIV., 16, 17.]
April 3. 508. S. Pepys to Sir Robt. Southwell. Finds that Mr. Cranfield's
Derby House, going away was very quick after he had his despatches from Sir
Robert, in that he left behind hi instructions from the King for
all that concerns him after his having done at Surinam, which he
has sent after him, but they would have called for a good deal of
discourse with the Secretary to have made himself master of them,
wl'ich the Secretary seems to have expected. Is at a loss what to
do f<>r the Norwich, or to know whether anything can be done,
202
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
April 5.
April 5.
Aboard the
America (iu
th Downs).
April 5.
April 5
to
1676,
June 17.
1675.
April 6.
St. James's.
for either Lord Orrery stopped her and so his passage s secured, or
she is past recalling ; will advise with the Lord Treasurer in it.
Favouring his own eyes makes him borrow another's hand. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 48.]
509. Edward Cranfield to Sir Robert Southwell. Has received
his packet directed aboard the Hunter and his of the 3rd inst.
Thanks for his care in sending to Mr. Pepys about Mr. Orton, who
as yet they hear nothing of, notwithstanding he was accommodated
with a vessel by the Commissioners of the Navy to overtake
Cranfield. Has lost a fair wind through his absence, and desires
the King's order to sail without him. The sad misfortune befallen
the Earl of Meath and the rest of the passengers extremely afflicts
him. [Col. Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL.VI, 92.]
510. Edward Craufield to Sir Robt. Southwell. Last night
Capt. Orton came to Deal, but could get no further than Sandwich
Haven. Has sent a boat to bring his things on board, and
meantime the ships are preparing to sail. Will omit no opportunity
of remitting accounts of his proceedings. p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 49.]
511. Copy of preceding.
92.]
[Col Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL,
512. List of ships entertained by the Royal African Company
since Christmas 1674, with date of "when clear of the coast," for
what part of Guinea, where to discharge, the number of negroes,
and the number of " negroes delivered." Also " negroes ordered "
from Xmas 1674 to Xmas 1675 for Barbadoes, Nevis, Jamaica, and
Virginia, and since for all four plantations in the last five ships.
Total, 7,025. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 50.]
513. The Duke of York to Governor Major Andros. In answer
to his letters of 20 Nov. and 4 and 17 Dec., thinks he has done
well to discourage any motion for an assembly, as being not com-
prehended in his instructions, nor consistent with the form of
government established, nor necessary for the redress of grievances,
as such may be easily obtained by an address to the Governor at
their yearly general assizes, where the same persons as justices are
usually present who would, in all probability, be their represen-
tatives. Approves of his having bespoke a seal and mace for the
city of New York, the charge whereof will be allowed him upon
account. There appears no present remedy for the want of money
for ordinary commerce complained of, unless he should be at the
charge of coining so many thousand pounds, as it is not convenient
for him at present to lay out, and if money were coined, unless of
a lower rate than that of their neighbours (which would impoverish
the country), it would now be carried away ; some merchants have
a project to send 10,000. in money, provided it be taken of only
in beaver in specie at such values as may compensate their hazard ;
it is but a notion as yet, and unless he (Andros) proposes some way
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1675.
April 7.
St. Jago
de 1 Vega.
April 8.
Whitehall.
April 8.
from thence how to effect the King, it will have but little life from
hence. The bounds of Connecticut were settled by Commisioners in
1667, and, according to Delavall, are to be on the edge next them of
the river Marrinac [Mamaroneck] northwards as far as they please,
provided they leave that river when it inclines W., so as not to
approach nearer than 20 miles to any part of Hudson's River ;
this was, he says, agreed by the Commissioners ; tis, however, best
to make accommodations of this kind temporary, so if possible to
preserve the utmost limit?} that the Patent gives him a title to.
Approves of his leaving salt wholly free, although it was intended
that salt for common uses should pay 2 per cent., and salt for fishery
(which he will do well to encourage)'be free. Is satisfied with his
proceedings, especially in reducing to obedience those three factious
towns at the east end of Long Island ; hopes that they may be
soon so settled that the people may be without apprehensions
of any injustice. Desires to have an estimate of the revenue.
Printed in New York Documents, ///., 230-231. 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. 70, p. 18.]
514. P. Beckford to Secretary Sir Jos. Williamson, per the
Swiftsure, Capt. Lowder. My Lord (Vaughan) has made Sir Thos.
Modyford Chief Justice of the island ; most of the Assembly men
are made choice of, but not all. There seems to be some mis-
understanding between the Governor and Sir Thos. Lynch about
Gallop's prize of negroes. Represents the case as well and as plainly
as he can. 1 p. \CoL Papers, Vol. 84, No. 51,]
515. Warrant to the Attorney General. To prepare a Bill for the
King's signature containing a Grant to Charles Modyford of the
office of Surveyor General of Jamaica, void by the death of the late
Surveyor [blank], who is to keep registers and books of entry
of all surveys to the end search may be made, or copies taken by
those any ways concerned on payment of the fees allowed by the
Assembly (see ante, No. 497]. 1 p. [Col Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 64.]
516. Sir L. Jenkins to [Sir R. Southwell], Conceives that those
ensigns of occupancy he writes of ought to be reputed sufficient to
continue a possession that we have held so long without dis-
turbance, yet if the French should put themselves into possession
in our absence they would not want matter of chicane that would
not only be specious but hard enough to be well answered in this
case, for there being no written law or common superior to give
the rule between them and us, the strength of our plea must be
from the law (that is, the general usage) of nations which is so
uncertain and so unconcluding (where men are not ingenuous but
lie at catch) that we cannot expect .it shall be now yielded to as it
would have been when men governed themselves by the rules of
primitive honesty and simplicity. It will avail us but little (when
we are at the worst end of the staff) to say that my possession by
the Imperial, or else by this or that municipal law, is continued
firm and good to me by the mere animus retinendi, or by such
or such a little mark, and that he who hath thrust himself into a
204 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
place I so held hath no legal possession, for it will be answered that
the very introducing of such diversified fictions of law in our
seizins and disseizins (for instance) in England, France, &c., implie^
that the general law of nations knows not, takes no notice of any
other than my actual corporeal gross occupancy of a place with its
dependencies. I can no more think our retreat in this case to be a
desertion than the coming down of the people in some parts of
Italy to the valleys in certain seasons is a deserting of those moun-
tains they return to when they see it convenient. If our people
are to be called away I would, under correction, offer, 1st, that his
Majesty would by his declaration do it showing the reasons of his
so doing, with an express caution that he means not thereby to
depart from his own jus imperil there, nor from any of the rights
or properties acquired to his people ; 2ndly, that the chiefs there,
at their coming away, should make some act (in the best manner
they can) in writing that they withdraw thence in obedience to his
Majesty, and that they leave such and such stores and necessaries
behind them out of an intention to return and use them at the season,
and with a special protest that they so leave them upon the place
to preserve his Majesty's rights and dominion, which I take to be
distinct from and superior to their several properties ; 3rdly, that
copies of these orders and acts be sent to the French fort there to
the employers and settlers out at Rochelle, &c., to our Ambassador
at the French Court to be notified as a matter of state. En-
dorsed, " 8 April 1675 ; Rec. ditto." 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 52.]
April 8. 517. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. New-
Whitehall, foundland. Several merchants attended according to the last
Order, who, after discussing the points sent to them, concluded
that the present rules approved would be sufficient ; that the
French did not outdo us in any material thing, but on the whole
left the advantage to us ; that they knew not what encouragements
to offer for inviting off the planters, none of whom had property
where they lived, and only a licence to live there so as they kept
6 miles from the shore. They were unwilling to advise their being
forced away, though nothing could cure the mischief but their
removal, but proposed that, seeing all their victuals and subsistence
comes from New England, a frigate should be appointed to seize
such New England ships. This expedient not much approved by
the Lords, who proposed to report to his Majesty that the convoy
have instructions to declare his Majesty's pleasure to the planters
that they remove 6 miles from the shore, for that they destroy the
woods and stages, debauch the mariners to stay there, leaving the
parishes at home clogged with their families, and by selling winea
and brandy draw men from their labours. That the convoy may
give help to those that would come home, tell others that would
go to other Plantations that the Governors are ordered to receive
them kindly ; and let those who are obstinate, and persist contrary
to the Charter, know that they shall be forced home hereafter.
Mr. Pepys to send a draft of the usual instructions to cpnvoys going
to Newfoundland, Desire of the merchants that the New Charter
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
206
1675.
April 8.
Tarr Bay
(Torbay).
April 8.
April 10.
Jamaica.
when passed may be printed, as also a proclamation to issue to
give life to all this regulation. Ordered, on reading a letter of the
21st March from the Mayor of Southampton, that the Governors
of Jersey and Guernsey take great care what passports they grant,
and send a list thereof, some French sheltering themselves here
during their war with Spain. 1$ pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV.,
17-18.]
518. Edward Cranfield to Sir Robt. Southwell. Sailed on the
6th, as soon as Mr. Orton arrived at the Downs, but on the 8th were
forced to cast anchor here. The ships are in good condition, and
will make the best of their way as soon as wind and weather will
permit. \ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 53.]
519.
93.]
Copy of preceding. [Col Entry Bk., No. LXXVIH.,
520. Deposition of Jno. Darbey, aged 22 years, sworn before the
Admiralty Commissioners at Jamaica. In April 1674 Deponent
and six more English were taken in a sloop sailing from St. Thomas's
Isle for Antigua bya Dutch man-of-war, and put ashore at the Havann,
where the Governor caused them all to be put in irons for five weeks,
and then put them to work upon the fortifications for three months
in miserable slavery. They were then put aboard a ship called the
Sta. Christ, but were taken five leagues off San Domingo by a
French man-of-war and brought to Jamaica. While Deponent was
in the Havana, eight English were brought in that had been taken
aboard a New England bark off Port Royal, that had no lading
but provisions ; and they, endeavouring to get clear, inarched along
the seaside to see if they cpuld meet with any English or French
vessels ; but the Governor sent a party of soldiers after them, who
murdered them all except the master, Jno. Collison, whose head
was cut off and set on a pole before the Governor's door, where
Deponent saw it standing three weeks. And further, while De-
ponent was at work on the wall by the harbour, he saw Don Philip
Fitz-Gerald, Commander of a Spanish man-of-war of 12 guns, come
into the harbour with a New England bark as prize, whose lading
was only provisions, liquors, and money ; and he had five English
tied ready to hang, two at the main-yard arms, two at the fbie-
yard arms, and one at the rnizen peak, and when he came near the
More Castle he caused them to be turned ofT, and they hanged till
they were dead, and Fitz-Gerald and his company shot at them
from the deck of the frigate. And a few days after Fitz-Gerald
would have had Deponent and several more English sail with him,
and showed them his commission to take all English and French
vessels, and they refusing he stabbed one of them dead with his
" spadu " (?). Sworn before R. Wilson [Rgistrar], 10th April ; and
afterwards, by order from Lord Vaughan, before Sir Henry Morgan
End two other Commissioners of the Admiralty, in the presence of
several Spaniards, who were brought in by a French man-of-war, and
who confessed that the major part was true to their knowledge.
n PP> \. c l - Papers, Vol. 34, No, 54.]
206 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
April 13. 521. Lieut- Gov. Sir Henry Morgan to Sec. Williamson. On
Port Royal, 8th Jan. last weighed anchor in the Downs in order to sail in
Jamaica. com p anv w ith his Excellency but their anchor was so fast in the
ground, his Excellency in the frigate was got about the Foreland,
and they could not see him afterwards. Account of his voyage.
Met Sir Roger Strickland's fleet the 10th, and on 25th Feb. ran
ashore on the reef off the Isle of Vache, where they had all
perished had Morgan not known where he was. The 14th of
March Lord Vaughan arrived in the Foresight frigate, and was
received with all the respect imaginable, the forts firing many guns,
and entertained at the King's house at a splendid supper. His
Commission read, 15th, by Peter Beckford, Secretary of the island,
and he was nobly entertained by the Commander of the forts ;
next day he went to St. Jago de la Vega, attended by most of
the gentry in their coaches, and was treated at a most splendid
dinner by Sir Thos. Modyford. The following day his Commission
was read there, his Majesty's Council assembled, and an account
of the Revenue demanded of Sir Thos. Lynch, which was found
very short, and likewise his Majesty's stores so exhausted, that
there was found in all the stores but 1 4 barrels of powder, which
on occasion would not last three hours. Nevertheless that shall
not daunt him, for before he will lose his Majesty's fortifications,
he will lose himself and a great many brave men more, that will
stand and fall by him in his Majesty's service ; though they grumble
much that their powder has been sold to the Spaniards by the late
Governor. His Excellency next convened an assembly for the
26th inst, which gives general satisfaction. The face of all things
is most changed, and things go but indifferently between the
General and Sir Thos. Lynch ; nor can any one blame the General,
for there is the greatest cheat in the world intended to be put on
the King about Capt. Gallop's negro prize, which was condemned
to the King, but there has been no return to his Majesty though
above 7,000. received ; and the General demanding the reason,
Sir Thos. answered that he kept it for Capt. Gallop ; but if Gallop
had come he would have answered that it was condemned to the
King. To keep people in the dark there was no register kept of
the fees of the condemnation, and contrary to all custom she was
condemned when without command. 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34.
No. 55.]
April 13-16. 522. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. The Speaker, with
Wm. Sharp and Col. Richard Guy, desired again to move his Ex-
cellency and Council that they may have full satisfaction for the
scandalous reflections on them by Edwyn Stede, in his Petition and
Statement to his Majesty, before they proceed to any business.
Motion of the Speaker to his Excellency and Council accordingly,
and reply of Edwyn Stede that he would presently .send his
answer in writing. Petition to his Majesty and paper of grievances
annexed, drawn up by his Excellency, touching the farmers of the
4 per cent., weighing their sugars, a trade with Scotland, and the
injuries done by the Royal African Company, considered and re-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 207
1675.
ferred to Wm. Sharpe and Edvv. Littleton for some amendment
against to-morrow.
April 14. Voted, that a Bill pass as now read for continuing the excise on
liquors as it now is ; that the goods so raised be disposed of by
the Governor, Council, and Assembly, the Council and Assembly
bearing their own charges, except only payment of the Assembly's
officers ; and that Lt.-Col. Wm. Bate be Treasurer and John Hallett
Comptroller. Ordered, on Petition of Richard Moseley, merchant,
in commiseration of his great loss by the wreck of a ship of wines
from Madeira, that the excise on 16 pipes of wine be remitted.
Answer of Edwyn Stede. Provost Marshal, to the charge laid
against him by the Assembly, sent by his Excellency, as follows :
1 oth April. In obedience to his Excellency's order in Council, 25th
March last, craves leave to give a short state of his case. He
never gave his friends in England any directions for the manner
of their proceedings to obtain what he conceives in justice belongs
to him ; all or most of what he wrote being barely matter of
record and matter of fact, without any observations, inferences,
or reflections on any person. Then follows the substance of what
he wrote, to the same effect as his " State of the Case " (see ante,
No. 485), which being read and the Assembly not finding satis-
faction, the following request was presented to his Excellency by
the Speaker : That they find not the least satisfaction from Edwyn
JStede's answer, but are confirmed thereby that his Petition and
case presented to his Majesty was by his direction, who though he
denies to have drawn it, yet does not acknowledge that it is filled
with the most malicious designs and scandalous lies and reflections
Upon the Assembly ; and not being able to bear reproaches drawing
in question their loyalty and affection to his Majesty, nor satisfied
that a man should be countenanced in any office amongst them,
who, to accomplish his private ends, boldly offers at the ruin of the
Island by traducing the inhabitants and drawing them into his
Majesty's displeasure, the Assembly pray that Edwyn Stede may
be suspended and removed from all public offices and trust in this
Island, lest his continuance should administer occasion to his
Majesty to believe them guilty as he has rendered them ; and
further pray that good security be given for the safe keeping of
their records by whomsoever his Excellency shall intrust them
with.
April 15. Voted, that Petition of the Council and Assembly to his Majesty,
with their grievances annexed, and Petition to his Excellency for
assistance in the same, be presented as they are. An Act for the
settlement of the Militia ordered to lie under consideration. An
Act passed for settling 6 acres and 30 perches of land and 2 negroes
in the representatives of the Parish of Christ Church for main-
taining 5 poor people, by the gift of Philip Trowell. An Act for
reviving the authority of Commissioners for settling Public Ac-
counts, sent by his Excellency and Council, passed. Ordered, that
Petition of Rachel Yeamons for abatement of excise on liquors and
composition for brandy, be graftted. Order sent from the Council
for providing a ton of refined sugar to be presented to Sir Wm.
Poole, knt., Commander of H.M.S. St. David, before his departure ;
208 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
and An Act for regulating the gauge of Sugar Cask, passed.
Received from his Excellency and Council a paper containing
Mr. Stede's further vindication, together with a paper signed by
his Excellency and part of the Council, as follow : Mr. Stede
added to his paper of yesterday, that the foregoing he owns to be
the true narrative of what he wrote home, and what is more than
that set forth in the Petition and state of the Case presented to
his Majesty, he absolutely disowns as done without his knowledge,
and conceives that the same and other misrecitals or misreports
therein were wholly done by the misapprehension of the person
who drew the same. His Excellency and Council having con-
sidered the Assembly's paper and what Edwyn Stede has presented
in manifestation of his own integrity, declare that in their judgment
he is no way guilty of any accusation or injurious language against
the Assembly, and they suppose the Assembly will remain well
satisfied therein ; and it is further ordered that care be taken to
vindicate the Assembly in the account to be rendered to his
Majesty of that affair. Adjourned till Tuesday eleven weeks, but
altered to the morrow at his Excellency's desire, in order to prepare
letter to the Gentlemen Planters in England desiring their assistance
in prosecuting the Petition of the Council and Assembly to his
Majesty for removal of their grievances.
April 16. Petition of the Council and Assembly to his Majesty, with their
grievances annexed, together with their Petition to his. Excellency
for his assistance, viz. : That the full sense they have of the hasty
approach of their own ruin and of the decay of his Majesty's do-
minion in these parts, through oppressions unknown to his Majesty
and contrary to his intentions, and persuaded that their greatest
difficulty lies in bringing the matter to his Majesty's knowledge,
pray his Excellency to countenance and direct their Addresses and
assist them with his interest. Ordered, that the Treasurer cause
12 butts of sugar to be shipped to t'ie Gentlemen Planters in
England for defraying the expense of prosecuting their Addresses
to his Majesty. Letter from the Council and Assembly to the
Gentlemen Planters in England read and passed, as follows : Excuse
themselves for not answering their letters hitherto, and return
hearty thanks for their diligence in their a flairs. Their former
Addresses have not had the good effect hoped for, but encouraged
by the zeal of their excellent Governor to promote their interests
to make further address to his Majesty, have sent the enclosed, en-
treating them to carry it on with vigour, appointing Col. Thornburgh
or what other person they think fit to solicit the business under
them. Have sent 12 butts of sugar for defraying the expense, and
if the exigency of affairs require an advance will speedily reimburse
it. Ordered, that the Treasurer inspect the account of Paul Gwynn
for accommodation of the Assembly four days at this sitting, and
pay what shall appear out of the excise on liquois. Adjourned till
Tuesday come eleven weeks. 19 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XIIL,
164-183.]
April 15, 523. Minute of the Council of Barbadoes, An Act for gauging
cask, and several other papers about the affairs of the Island,
AMERICA Atf D WEST INDIES. 209
1675.
presented by the Assembly to be sent home. p. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. XL, 288.]
.April 15-16. 524. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations :
April 15, Newfoundland. A long report presented by Sir R.
Squthwell, of the matter of Newfoundland, comprehending much of
the debate, that neither the Council no? merchants might be im-
posed on by new application when things are supposed to be forgot,
read, and ordered to be writ fair, with some alterations, and points
given in charge to the convoy touching the French.
April 16. The whole report read and approved, and ordered to
be forthwith presented to his Majesty in Council.
Mem. That of 14 orders sent down to the Western Ports there
were answers only from Weymouth and Mekomb, Plymouth, and
Barnstaple. The petition of Mr. Mason about his pretensions in
New England to be considered on Thursday. 1 p. [Col. Entry
Bk., No. CIV., 19-20.]
April 16. 525. Joseph Knapman to Mr. Alderman. Doubts not he has
Port Royal, had an account of the unfortunate loss of the Jamaica merchant
on the 25th February on the east side of the Isle of Ash on
the south side of Hispaniola, within 24 hours sail of this port.
Knows not what evil genius led him there, and never was any man
more surprised considering the course they steered. Saved all the
people, and 5 or 6 days after, one, Capt. Tho. Rogers, a Jamaica
privateer now sailing under the French, carried Sir Henry Morgan
and all the passengers for Jamaica, but he and his men stayed
behind to save, if possible, his Majesty's stores and the ship's fur-
niture, and he was obliged to offer them one-third of what they could
save, or could get them to do nothing. Were a month ere they got
to Port Royal, in which time they saved a great part of his Majesty's
stores, and some of the ships, for which he will be accountable.
With difficulty saved Mr. Alderman and his son's gold, for he was
forced to swim with it on his back. Left a small sloop to keep
possession of the ship for the King, and Lord Vaughan has since
sent up two great sloops to save what may be saved. Soon after
his arrival Sir Thos. Smith and Capt. Moulsworth gave him
command of this ship, the St. Thomas, for the voyage home,
and intend to come home in her. Sees no likelihood of laying
out Mr. Alderman's money to any advantage, for Mr. Webber
arrived on the 8th, by whom he sends positive orders not to exceed
9d. per Ib. for pimento, and can get none for that price ; sugar is
18s., 19s., and 20s. per cwt., and indigo 2s. 6d. per Ib., so knows not
how to lay out his money. Desires him to advise the gentlemen
concerned of their ill success, for he hates to write to everybody of
so evil a subject. Gives a list of his Majesty's stores saved,
including 8 barrels of powder, 458 hand grenades, 301 snaphanco
muskets, 480 carbines, 2,667 long pikes, 186 snaphance dragoons,
10,000 cut flints, 805 " cartooth " and " cardose " boxes, 78 pistols,
544 culverin shot, 323 demi-cannon shot, 2 petards. 2 pp. [Col
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 56.]
7 72848,
210
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
April f$. 526. Governor Sir Jonathan Atkins to Secretary Sir Joseph
Barbadoes. Williamson at Whitehall. Received his of 30th January, and one
from the King on Lord Sunderland's business, to whom he wrote.
The unfortunate killing of Mr. Bridges happened before his arrival.
Trials for life are here but once a year at the General Sessions.
Has appointed same to be 7 weeks hence, but according to the
custom of the island there is no seizure till conviction. The fact
was committed by a younger brother of Sir Peter Colleton, who
escaped out of the island, and there were in his company
Mr. Kendall, a man of good estate, one Mayo of no fortune, and one
Archer that keeps an ale house, and from the evidence it may be
concluded that Mr. Colleton killed him, the constable was to blame,
and that from a former pique to Mr. Mayo he took occasion to
affront the gentlemen as they were going home to their lodgings.
What construction a jury will make of it is next to be noticed, but,
as the law admits, will establish his Lordship's business to his best
advantage. At the last meeting of the Assembly they presented
petition with an address to the King importing some grievances
and desiring his assistance, which he could not refuse seeing the
evil consequences portended. The first grievance is the collecting
of the 4 per cent., the farmers having procured a letter from the
King to weigh all casks, which is so much to the hindrance of the
people that he had much to do to keep them in order, but has
prevailed with them to make an Act for a gauge of all sugar casks,
with penalty of confiscation of all goods put into greater casks,
without acquainting the officer for the duty. The gentlemen they
employ in England will wait on him with the papers, and reasons
of the petition ; but in brief the Act of Navigation lies so heavy on
all these plantations that they will lose all commerce from New
England and Ireland,- from whence they have all their provisions ;
for if they bring but a piece of frieze or anything of their own
manufacture, not being first had to England, it is forfeiture of ship
and goods, when the bare bringing of provisions so long a voyage
cannot answer the charge. The merchants of England not being
able as formerly to make 50 or 60 per cent, on sugar, find it scarce
worth their hazard, and the want of shipping therby has raised
the freight to 9. per ton, yet can they not get shipping to carry off
one-half of their effects this year. Is confident the restraining of
trade to one place only must in time dissolve all the plantations,
and the contrary advance the King's Customs 10,000. a year,
without prejudice to the Act of Trade. 2 pp. [Col, Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 57.]
527. Edward Cranfield to Sir Robt. Southwell. Sailed from
TOIT Bay 12th inst., and are now in lat. 39 and 45, where meeting
ships bound for the Channel, thought it his duty to give account.
Hopes the wind will in a few days carry them to Madeira. 1 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 58 ; also Col. Entry Bh> No. LXXVI1L,
93.]
22 April. 528. Preamble (of the Committee for Trade and Plantations.)
The Lord Keeper having on 1 2 March acquainted the Board by hie
April 21.
Aboard the
America.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 211
1675.
Majesty's command that his Majesty, having dissolved the late
Council of Trade and Foreign Plantations, had committed what was
under their inspection and management to the Committee of the
Board appointed for matters relating to trade and foreign planta-
tions, their Lordships met on 22 April, and being attended by Sir
Kobt. Southwell were acquainted that on 13 January two petitions
from Robt. Mason and Ferd. Gorges were presented to his Majesty
in Council, which were referred to the Committee. Annexed,
528. I. Order of the King in Council referring the two petitions
above mentioned to said Committee for their report.
"Whitehall, 12 March 1675.
528. II. Petition of Robert Mason to the King and Privy Council
praying relief for the province of New Hampshire against
Massachusetts. Calendared, ante No. 413, 13 Jan. 1675.
528. III. Petition of Ferdinando Gorges to the King and Privy
Council for relief for the province of Maine against
Massachusetts. Calendared, ante No. 412, 13 Jan. 167-5.
528. IV. Report of Robert Mason and others on the two preceding
petitions. Calendared in previous volume of Col. Cal.
1661-1668. p. 75, No. 230. 15 February 1662.
528. V. Mem. Mr. Mason having opened many points by his
discourse concerning New England the Lords of the
Committee, order him at their next meeting to bring the
statement of his case in writing. See No. 545, 1 May
1675. [Col. Entry Bk, Vol. LX., pp. 1-9.]
April 22. 529. Minutes of the Committee for Plantations. Memorandum
about the petitions of Mason and Gorges ; Order in Council thereon
12 March ; the meeting of the Committee on the 14th, when Sir
Edward Walker and Mr. Slingsby were directed to peruse the
books and papers of the late Council of Plantations, and thence to
extract and prepare a scheme of the present state of New England,
and what transactions had there touching that place. Mr. Povey,
by order of the 27th, added to this sub-committee and a while after
Sir R. Southwell. They met and examined the proceedings before
the late Council of Plantations, and finding that all relating to the
petitioners or the State of New England was comprised in two short
reports of the Council, dated 12 Aug. 1671, the same were pre-
sented and read, upon which their Lordships not having that light
or satisfaction which a matter of this importance required, ordered
Mr. Mason to bring in afresh a statement of his case. 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. 104, p. 20.]
April 26. 530. Warrant to Sir John Robinson, Lieutenant of the Tower.
Whitehall. To suffer Col. Francis Lovelace, a prisoner in the Tower, for not
having defended the Fort and Colony of New York, and now fallen
very dangerously ill of a dropsy, to have his liberty, he giving
security in 500. to render himself again a prisoner when thereunto
duly required. 1 p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. 28,
p. 130.1
0*
212 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
April 26. 531. William Harris to Fleetwood Shephard at his lodging in
Privy Garden. Thanks him for his kindness to himself, a stranger ;
statement of his wrongs and reasons. Has suffered great and long
wrong, and can find no effectual remedy in New England, for
though he has had a vindication of his and his partner's right both
by arbitration and law he cannot get execution of the judgment
owing to the confederation of the forcible enterers openly resisting
by force of arms. His adversaries pretend that they will resist till
they have had a trial, as the King's Commissioners promised when
they should come back from the Eastward of New England, who
came not all back and are now dead, so that he is forced in the
evening of age to come three thousand miles to get a remedy and
to be troublesome to the King and his own friends which is not his
wont. It may be thought strange to enter on other men's lands,
but it is stranger to enter as one Norton did. Has papers to prove
these things, otherwise how would be run such jeopardy, to come
so far by sea to take such pains and undergo such charge and
trouble his friends as well, than which nothing is more contrary to
his disposition, nor does he ever go to law for five or ten pounds,
nor ever was arrested but for supposed high treason against Oliver
Cromwell, until of late falsely indicted by his adversaries, nor did
he ever arrest any man, but first offered arbitration. Asks as a
proof that he is not contentious, that, if the King grant his petition,
it be of no force till a jury has tried the issue whether it be or be
not true that he has had a verdict and judgment and the execution
resisted and two awards of arbitrators ; if it be proved true the
commission to be in force but not otherwise. In answer to the
objection that the King's order would not be observed in New
England owing to the Massachusetts' denial of the King's Com-
missioners, begs him to take notice that three of the four colonies,
New Plymouth, Connecticut, and Rhode Island received the Com-
missioners in weighty things as to the bounds of their charters, that
they of Boston offered to show their proceedings, as to one Porter,
to the Commissioners, and that they received and executed some of
the King's writs, so that it seems reasonable to believe that the
three colonies and Boston will at the King's command do justice.
Moreover, it is certain that John Winthrop, Governor of Connecticut,
Josiah Winslow, Governor of new Plymouth, and William Codington,
Governor of Rhode Island, will receive and execute the King's com-
mission for their own safety and praise and 'reward of well-doing.
Thus will the King's command be easily obeyed and his authority
more immediately innured, and a way to his after orders prepared
and peace and his interest maintained without the least charge to
him and to his subjects' safety. There is no rational ground, by
any patent granted to any in New England, to be excused from
answering to the King's writs, no more than other Corporations in
England which are all under the King's immediate writ to answer
according to laws, otherwise the King's subjects there may be
oppressed, for they are allowed the privileges of free and natural-
born subjects of the Kings in England, and, if denied, the King's
laws and writs and benefits thereof ; and resisting the King's writs
and, laws seems contrary to the patents and the laws of England,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 213
1675.
which authority is not granted to any people in New England, and
for a corporation to make any laws of death seems contrary to the
laws of England, III. Car. LI. It cannot be imagined that the
King hath given some of his subjects to other subjects of other
corporations, who may not make any laws in imminution of the
King's prerogative, 17 H. VII. 7, nor forbid suits in the King's
courts, 19 H. VII. 7. Knows many leading men in New England,
discreet and honest the Governor of Connecticut, Winthrop, a
prudent moderate man, and the Deputy Governor, Leet, some of
the assistants, Tollcot, Willes, Allen, Richards, wise men, devout for
their churches ; the Governor of New Plymouth, Winslow, a very
moderate wise man, their oldest assistant Alden instead of a
Deputy Governor, others Hinkley, Bradford, Freeman, Browne,
Cudworth, pretty moderate most of them; the Governor of
Massachusetts, Leveret, their deputy, Simons, assistants Damport
(Danforth),Hathorne, Broadstreet, Denison, Cooking Stoton, Clark,
very devout men for their churches ; the Governor of Rhode Island,
Codington, the deputy Easton, assistants Bull, Gould, Clark, Cogge-
shall, Trip, Harris, ADmy, Barton, some of them called Quakers,
some called Generals. Each colony has a body of laws ; the Rhode
Island laws are most in conformity to the laws of England and
the most toleration there ; next most sufferance is at New Plymouth
where are Quakers and Baptists, but some Quakers and Baptists at
Massachusetts, but fewest at Connecticut, where they persecuted
them least, except at Rhode Island. Trade of the country to
Barbadoes, Nevis, and other places; country healthy and well
replenished with people and cattle, and so many horses that men
know not what to do with them, nothing so wanting as thanks to
God and answerable conversation thereto. Begs him to let no one
who will tell his adversaries know his thoughts about the king's
authority, lest he should be a long sufferer, for one Wharton, a
merchant of Boston, for informing the King of what the Dutch did
on the coast and how he conceived it might be remedied, was taken
as no friend to New England and his letters stopped. 3 pp ., with
seal, a heart with the letter H, and the motto " Uprighte." [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 59.]
532. William Harris to Sir Joseph Williamson. Prays pardon
for wearying him, and offers a few words in reply to his objection
that the King gives commissions to preserve his peace, but not later
commissions as to titles of lands, &c. Answers that the suppressing
of forcible entries, &c., lies in the commissions of the peace, that the
patents in New England give power to the Justices to hear and
determine as to titles of land, that writs to remove suits to higher
courts for more impartial judgment are tried by another commission,
that persons supposed to commit a force on the offer to traverse
their title to possession are not to be removed but admitted to try
it before the said Justices of the Peace, that the omission and
execution of the law is the defeat of the exercise of the power given
by patent, of the peace and of their possession ; they wear their
title by the law of the Colony forced to prove before the forcible
entry there could be tried and they had a verdict, judgment, and
$14 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1075,
execution resisted and the force never yet tried though contained.
Leaves to the providence of God, the King, and pleasure, &c.,
whether a later commission with power in these cases is not needful.
Prays that an order may be granted requiring or commanding and
empowering three, if the fourth should sail, lest at the worst all
should sail and justice be defeated. I p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 60,]
533. W. Harris to Sec. Williamson. Reminds him the Governors
of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Plymouth, and Rhode Island, are
50 or 60 miles distant from each other, and it will be long before
they agree on the best way to proceed. Suggests that some direction
should be given by the King to them or one of them ; prays him to
an effectual performance of the matter. 1 p. Probably a postscript
to preceding letter. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 61.]
534. Draft Commission in the handwriting of William Harris.
Authorising the formation of a Court to try the questions at issue
between himself and his opponents. The four Governors of
Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Plymouth, and Rhode Island, are
each to appoint one Judge, and from the three former Colonies 48
men are to be chosen, from whom. 12 jurymen are to be selected.
The decision to be final, the costs of the Court to be borne by the
losing parties. Endorsed by Williamson, " 1675. New England.
Mr. Hai ris his case." 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 62.]
April 26. 535. List of Members chosen by the different parishes for the
Jamaica. Assembly convened for 26th April 1675. See following Abstract.
2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 63.]
April 26 536. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. The Provost Marshal
May 1. brought in the Returns of the several elections as follows : St.
Bt. Jago. Thomas', Edward Stanton and Clement Richardson ; St. David's,
Wm. Beeston and Wm. Rives ; St. Andrew's, Sam. Barry and
Richard Braine ; Port Royal, Sam. Bache, Authony Swimmer and
Benjamin Whitcombe ; St. Katherine's, Samuel Long, Samuel
Bernard, and Peter Beckford ; St. Dorothy's, John Colebeck and
William Shute ; St. Thomas-in-the-Vale, William Knollesand Fulke
Rose ; Clarendon, Giftbrd Pennant and William Bent ; Vere, John
Bourden and Robert Varney ; St. Elizabeth's, Robert Bridgewood
and Jonathan Ashurst ; St. George's, William Nedham and William
Brewer ; St. Mary's, George Nedham and Joachim Haynes ; St.
Ann's, Benj. Smith and Thomas Helyer ; St. James', Richard Guy
and Sam. Jenks ; St. John's, Wm. Bragg and Francis Price. Sam.
Long presented by the Assembly for their Speaker, of which his
Excellency approved, and in a speech declared the reasons of their
meeting. Tho. Freeman and Robt. Byndloss sent to administer the
Oaths of Allegiance to the Assembly. The thanks of the Assembly
presented by Wm. Beeston and three others to his Excellency for
the great satisfaction he had given them in his speech.
AMERICA AND WJ5ST INDIES, 215
1675,
April 27. No business offered from the Assembly, the Council adjourned
till,
April 28. The Oath of Allegiance administered to Richard Guy, one of the
representatives of St. James' Parish. Wm. Rives and Sam. Bernard
brought up the Acts for ascertaining the number of Assembly
men for the Revenue, for maintaining of the Ministry, and for
repairing the Highways, with divers amendments and observations,
and desired Sir Thos. Lynch's account of the public money which
his Excellency promised to send them. The Act ascertaining the
number of Assembly men read ; for maintenance of the Ministry,
read and approved with Amendments ; for the Revenue, read with
Amendments and referred to further debate.
April 29. Sir Thos. Modyford's accounts delivered to the Assembly to be
examined with Sir Thos. Lynch's. Six Acts presented by the
Assembly, to whom were returned the Acts for Assembly men,
maintenance of the Ministry and Highways, approved with Amend-
ments. The Act for establishing the Supreme Court, approved with
Amendments ; for Fees, with Amendment, approved with a Clause
to be added ; for Justices, read and Amendments proposed ; all
which were sent to the Assembly with the Council's observations.
April 30. The amendments and additions in the Act of Militia consented to,
except one clause concerning the Captain of the Troop of his
Excellency's guards, which is to stand ; pikes and lances to be left
to the discretion of the officers ; other small amendments proposed,
and this clause to be inserted, That for the particular encourage-
ment of his Excellency's troop of Guards, all who shall enlist therein
shall be excused from serving as constables, and that no foot officer
in the precincts of St. Katherine, St. Dorothy, and St. Thomas-in-
the-Vale, enlist any out of their proper division. This clause like-
wise to be inserted at the end, that nothing in this Act be construed
to abridge his Excellency's power to act as Captain-General and
Governor-in-Chief according to the powers and commands given
him by his Majesty's Commission. The Act for Negro Slaves read,
and Amendments approved. The Act for servants read and
Amendments approved, with proviso that the penalty shall not
run against masters who have once supplied themselves, if by death
or accident their servants are lost, but that 12 months more be
allowed them.
May 1. The Act of the Revenue read, and the first Amendment approved,
remarks upon other Amendments, the Captain General's salary to
be 2,000?. per annum, " residing usually at St. Jago," his residence
at Port Royal to be omitted ; other Salaries in the order named to
be paid by the Governor's Warrant to the Treasurer. The Act of
Naturalization read with Amendment. [Col Entry Bk., No. XXX V.,
399-410.]
April 26 to 537. Minutes of the Assembly of Jamaica. List of the Members
May 15. elected (see preceding). Capt. Sam. Long chosen Speaker. The
St. Jago de la Oath of Allegiance administered to all except Capt. Richard
ga< Guy who was absent, and Thos. Helyer who refused to take it
according to the form prescribed. Rules approved as much con-
ducing to the regular proceeding in their business ; 17 to make
216 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
a quorum ; every Act before it pass to be read at three different
sessions ; in all votes the major part to carry it, wherein the Speaker
is to have his voice ; no man to speak but twice at one Session to
the same Debate, the Speaker and Assembly to imprison or fine
such of their Members as are disobedient, drunken, or profane. Five
Members to join with those of the Council appointed for the
inspection and returning of Writs. Four Members to return his
Lordship thanks for his gracious speech and free grant of their
privileges.
April 27, Capt. Knapman's business not to be tried again. The House
resolved into a Grand Committee to consider about raising money
for a present to his Excellency, and 1,500?. voted for that purpose,
whereof 500?. to be employed in buying the house his Excellency
lives in for the Governor's use for ever; 1,600?., whereof 100/. to
be allowed to the constables for levying, to be levied of the lands
and personal estates of the inhabitants, yet so as they exceed not
one-half thereof in the levy off the lands, viz. : from the Parish of
Port Royal 350?., St. Andrew's 250?., St. David's 80?., St. Thomas's
200?., St. George's 10?., St. Ann's 30?., St. James's 20?.,
St. Elizabeth's 110?., Vere 80?., Clarendon 160?., St. Katherine's,
St. Dorothy's, and St. Thomas's-in-the-Vale 150?., St. John's
130?., and St. Mary's 30?. Ordered, that Thos. Hclyer refusing
to take the customary Oath of Allegiance, be not allowed to sit, and
that his Lordship be moved to issue a new Writ. Ordered, that
the Marshal give Capt. Richard Guy notice that having been chosen
for St. James's Parish, he must give his attendance notwithstanding
he is not a freeholder in said Parish. Several Acts considered with
amendments and sent to his Excellency in Council, with a request
for an account of the revenue.
April 28. Amendments to several Acts of the last Assembly. Answer of
his Excellency, that he would send account of the revenue. Capt.
Richard Guy sent to the Governor and Council to take the Oath of
Allegiance, and admitted to sit in the House.
April 29. Several Acts read and passed with Amendments. Sir Thos.
Lynch's accounts sent by his Excellency, and also Sir Thos.
Modyford's at the request of the Assembly. Committee appointed
to consider these accounts and to report on Saturday next (1st
May). Several Acts sent back by his Excellency with Amendments.
April 30. Acts read and passed, some with Amendments.
May 1. Leave to Col. Brewer to go home, on information of the disorder
his affairs were in by reason of the running away of his negroes.
Two Acts read. Report of the Committee for examining Sir Thos.
Modyford and Sir Thos. Lynch's accounts, that they were satisfied
Sir Thos. Modyford had received his discharge from the King's
Exchequer. The Committee called attention to 144?. 12*. 2d. in
Sir Thos. Lynch's accounts, finding nothing else to be objected
against. Voted, that Sir Thos. Lynch's accounts be viewed.
May 3. Act for taking out Patents and collecting Quit Rents, read and
passed. Voted, that certain sums in Sir T. Modyford's accounts
objected to by the Assembly, amounting to 4,047?. 5s. lOd, be
sent to his Excellency and Council, that order be taken that they
be not brought against the country hereafter,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 217
1675.
May 4. Voted, that the sum of 144?. 12s. 2<i in Sir Thos. Lynch's ac-
counts for repairing the King's House at Port Royal be allowed.
The Act of Naturalization read and amended. Sundry votes and
queries upon Sir Thos. Lynch's accounts. Voted upon the Act of
Revenue, that the 1,500?. annexed to Government be first paid
after contingencies ; the Captain-General usually to reside at
St. Jago and the Lieutenant- General at Port Royal ; the Captain-
General to have 2,000?. per annum and the Lieutenant-General
600?., to be paid proportionably ; his Lordship to have any
surplusage, the salaries and contingencies being paid ; Sir Henry
Morgan, for his good service to the country, to have 600?. during
his Lieutenant Governorship, but none of his successors. Several
Acts read and passed, some with Amendments.
May 5, 6. Several Acts read and passed, with Amendments.
May 7. Voted, on petition of the Freeholders, that the Magatee be
annexed to the Parish of St. Thomas-in-the-Vale, but continue to
pay all Parish duties, reparation of highways excepted, to St. John's
until a Minister be settled and a church built in St. Thomas-in-
the Vale. Several Acts read and passed. Petition of Wm. Gibbon,
merchant, that the estate of Dan. Jordan, deceased, be sold for
satisfaction of his debts, because Petitioner and Jordan are joint
administrators of the estate of Thomas Scutt, deceased, and indebted
thereto. Three members appointed to examine into the matters
alleged in said petition. Several Acts read and passed.
May 8. Several Acts read and passed. Petition of John Styles, of the
Magatee, planter, that his land be made a distinct Parish, under
the name of Styles Langley, he having left it by will to Christ
Church College, Oxford, from whence he expects it will be supplied
with Preachers, and that it might continue in the Parish of
St. John till Petitioner should have a church built and a parson
settled there : refused, by reason there was no probability there
would be a sufficient congregation to make a parish.
May 11, 12. Several Acts read and passed, with Amendments. On report of
the Committee that Jordan's estate was indebted to the estate of
Thomas Scutt as alleged in Gibbon's Petition, Capt. Nedham ordered
to draw up an Act for the sale of Jordan's estate; but it was
thrown out, as unreasonable for the Assembly to be concerned
where the law itself gives a remedy. Petition, sent down by his
Excellency, praying H.R.H. the Duke of York to interpose with
the Royal Company to furnish the Island with a plentiful supply
of negroes, approved, and ordered to be entered in the journal, the
Speaker to return his Excellency thanks for same.
May 13, 14. Several Acts read and passed, with Amendments.
May 1 5. The Act of Revenue read and passed, after a dispute with his
Excellency whether his order should be the Treasurer's discharge
for paying salaries. Ordered, that his Excellency be desired to
sign the Acts in the Assembly according to the custom of this
Island, to which he answered that it was not usual in England to
do so, but that they bring in the Acts to the Council to be signed,
the Assembly being afterwards called in ; whereupon it was voted
that the Speaker carry the Acts to the Council, but if his Ex-
218 COLON! AT, PAPERS.
1675,
cellency refuse to sign them in presence of the Assembly, that he
bring them back again. Adjourned for an hour. Report of
Mr. Speaker that his Lordship would not pass the Acts in presence
of the Assembly, it being altogether repugnant to the custom of the
Parliament of England; whereupon he was returning with the
Acts, when his Lordship commanded them from him, telling him
that when an Act was consented to in Council and three times
passed in the Assembly they were dispossessed thereof : and being
pressed by the Speaker, how an Act beneficial to the Governor
should be stopped till other Acts conducing to the advantage of the
subject were passed, his Lordship replied that such Acts for the
subject should be sent to him and assented to before the House
passed the others, and that the Speaker might take away any Acts
not passed the third time. The Assembly sent for by his Ex-
cellency. Adjourned for half-an-hour. 22 pp. [Col. Entry Bk. t
No. XXXVIL.fol. 143-J53<]
April 26. 538. Forty -five Acts, Laws, and Statutes made and ordained at
St. Jago de la Vega in Jamaica, by Governor Lord Vaughan and
by an Assembly which began the 26th April 1675, with Index,
viz. : (1.) An Act appointing the number of Assembly men.
(2.) Declaring the laws of England in force in this Island. ( " Re-
pealed" in margin.) (3.) For preservation of cattle. (4.) Em-
powering the Churchwardens of St. Katherine's to receive twelve
pence per ton for all goods made up in cask that are laden or shipped
from the bridge at Passage Fort, for maintaining . and repairing
the same. (Iri margin, " The new law approved.") (5.) For the
quieting all persons' estates against dormant titles. (6.) Requiring
the enrolment of deeds for prevention of fraudulent conveyances.
(7.) Empowering his Majesty's Justices of the Peace in this Island
to decide all pleas and differences between party and party not
exceeding the value of 40s. (8.) For the better maintenance of the
Ministry, fin margin, " The new law for regulating parishes to
stand.") (9.) For the good governing of servants, and ordering the
rights between masters and servants. (In margin, " The new law
of force.") (10.) Preventing seamen leaving their ships, and
victuallers or sellers of strong liquors trusting of them. (11.) For
the perpetual Anniversary Thanksgiving on the 10th day of May,
for the happy success and conquest made and obtained in his most
sacred Majesty's Island of Jamaica. (12.) For the better ordering
and governing of negro slaves. (In margin, " New law of force.")
(13.) For settling the Militia. (In margin, " New Act to stand.")
(14.) For the regulating the fees of the several offices of this Island.
(With corrections). (15.) For the better amending, repairing, and
keeping clear the common highways and known broad paths
within this Island, leading to church and market, and for laying
out new highways and turning old highways where it shall be
needful. (In margin, " New law to be in force.") (16.) For con-
firming Orders of Council. (With corrections.) (17.) Against
excessive usury. (In margin, "This is comprehended in the new
law for establishing the interest of money ; the new law of force.")
(18.) For repealing of a former Act, intituled " An Acfc for sup-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 219
1675,
pressing the multiplicity of law suits, and of divers other Acts
made at the Session of the Assembly in the month of February
1673-74." (With corrections.) (19.) For foreign Attachments.
(20.) To prevent fraud and deceit in the makers and sellers of rum.
(With corrections.) (21.) For prevention of such damages as may
happen by fire. ( With corrections.) (22.) Encouraging of shipping
to take in lading at Old Harbour, Port St. Thomas, or any
other place round this his Majesty's Island. (With corrections.)
(23.) For establishing the current price of money. (24.) Appointing
Col. Thos. Modyford and Capt. Edmund Ducke to be Trustees,
and fully enabled to make sale of the lands and plantations of
Mr. Thos. Tothill, late of this Island, deceased, for the payment of
debts and making provision for the relict and infant of the said
deceased. (With a correction.) (25.) For rating meat sold by
retail. (In margin, " The new law of force.") (26.) For com-
pensation of the loss Mr. IS icholas Scarlett received by the pursuits
of the rebellious negroes at Lygonee. (With a correction.)
(27.) For encouragement to Mr. James Lassell for the sugar mill
he lately contrived. (With a correction.) (28.) For recovering of
such moneys as were subscribed to for building a half moon
at Bonham's Court that are not paid. (In margin, " Paid and
expired.") (29.) For regulating the freight of boats, wherries, and
other vessels and their owners and employers. (In margin, "Laid
aside.") (30.) For regulating the Marshal's proceedings in levying
executions. (With collections^ (31.) For the ordering and em-
powering the Secretary of the Island to take sufficient security of
every master of ship or vessel and others that depart this Island ;
and of the duty of masters of ships and others that come to trade
in this Island. (In margin, " The new law of force.") (32.) For
the speedy remedying of all such nuisances as are or may hereafter
be made upon the town of Port Royal, and to prevent the spreading
of any fire that may happen therein. (In margin, " New law to
stand.") (33.) For the speedy taking out of patents and the better
adjusting and more speedy collecting the quit rents of this his
Majesty's Island of Jamaica. (With corrections.) (34.) For re-
gulating hunting. (With corrections.) (35.) For dividing his
Majesty's Island of Jamaica into several parishes and precincts.
(In margin, "New Act to stand/') (30.) Prohibiting the trans-
portation of several commodities out of this Island, being in a
growing condition. (With corrections.) (37.) For naturalization.
(With connections.) (38.) For the preventing the retailing of
strong liquors by unlicensed persons. (With corrections.) (39.)
Against tippling, cursing, and swearing. (In margin, " New
Act to stand.") (40.) Declaring it to be felony without benefit
of clergy to steal or carry away any boat, canoe, wherry, or
other vessel from any part of this Island. (With corrections.)
(41.) For regulating the proceedings of Surveyors. (In margin,
" New Act to stand when allowed.'') (42.) Against suing of
persons here for foreign debts within five years after their
arrival. (In margin, " Abolished.") (43.) For preserving of the
savannahs and small plantations. (With corrections.) (44.) For
the establishing of the Supreme Court of Judicature in the town
220
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
of St. Jago de la Vega. (With corrections.} Endorsed, " Jamaica,
May 21, 1675. These are to certify that I have carefully
examined the several Laws hereunto affixed, containing 1 1 7 sheets,
and find that they do agree w th the original Records in the custody
of Ch. Atkinson, 01. Con. In pursuance of his Majy' 3 Instructions,
I have commanded the Broad Seal of this Island to be hereunto
affixed. May 24, 1675. Vaughan." And (45) an Act for
raising a public revenue out of the strong liquors and other goods
of the production of foreign plantations imported or to be imported
into this Island, and for the disposal thereof. Endorsed, " Copy.
The Original Revenue Bill, wherein the King's name is expunged,
&c." Together, 118 pp. [Col. Entry Bk. t No. XL]
539. Summary of preceding Acts, with the exception of the last.
pp. [Col Entry Bh, No. XXVIII., 128-147.]
April 26.
April 27. 540. Edward Cranfield to Sir Robt. Southwell. Arrived at
Madeira. Madeira this morning to recruit the Hunter with water and
beverage wine, which the victuallers could not furnish her with in
England, and Capt. Dickenson havirg sent to the Council to
acquaint the Governor, he sent word that if the Captain would not
enter the King's ship as a merchant man, and pay port charges and
other duties, he would give him no " produck " (prattick in
margin) ; but Capt. Dickenson refused, and desired him to acquaint
the Governor that he would be gone immediately if he would not
grant him " produck," which the Governor utterly denied, where-
upon they thought it convenient to be gone rather than comply
with an unpractical imposition which might reflect on the King's
honour. Has received a letter just now from the merchants
ashore, complaining of many injuries and indignities daily put
upon them by this Governor, and Lord Vaughan was treated in the
same manner, but presumes he has account of this before. 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 64.]
April 27. 541. Copy of preceding. [Col Entry Bh, No. LXXVIIL, 94.]
April 27. 542. Copy of the above, but addressed to Sec. Sir Joseph
Madeira. Williamson. Endorsed, " R., 30 July," &c. 1 p. [Col Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 65.]
April 29. 543. " An account taken from Mr. Harris of New England."
Number of men bearing arms 7 or 8 thousand foot and 8 or 10
troops of horse, each troop consisting of between 60 and 80 horse.
Twelve ships between 40 and 80 tons are built every year in
Boston, Salem, and that jurisdiction ; he carne over in a ship built
there of 200 tons with 14 guns. Does not know the number of
the fishing boats, the trade being chiefly E. of Rhode Island, but
there are never fewer than two men in every boat, sometimes three
or four ; the fishing is in cod, haddock, and mackerel, transported
to the West Indies, Barbadoes, Spain, and the Straits. There are
three or four ironworks but he has not heard of guns cast there,
though there are many in the country ; has seen some on the sea
side 3i yds. long, mostly about Boston in the Fort whereof on, the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 221
1675.
sea by which all ships must pass, it is said there are about 20 guns ;
in the ironworks they formerly cast iron pots to boil meat in. The
merchants seem to be rich men, and their houses as handsomely
furnished as most in London. In exchange of fish, pipe staves,
wool, and tobacco, they have from Spain, Portugal, and the islands,
the commodities of those countries ; their wool they carry to
France and bring thence linen ; to England they bring beaver,
mouse, and deer skins, sugar and logwood, and carry hence cloth
and ironwares ; to Barbadoes in exchange for horses, beef, pork,
butter, cheese, flour, peas, biscuit, they have sugar and indigo;
when they trade with Jamaica, as they do sometimes, they bring
home pieces of eight, plate, and pigs of silver. Their money is of
pretty good silver ; in the middle of it is a pine tree (with which
the country abounds) ; the valuation of it is but 3 of 4 sterling
money, and a New England shilling is but 9d. sterling ; the pieces
usually current are only 2d., 3d., bd., and shillings ; with the silver
they are supplied from Jamaica. The houses in Boston are of
brick and ordinary stone, but most of timber ; some are 2 and the
most but 3 stories high. The town very large and situate on a
neck of land surrounded with a great salt river, only to the land-
ward there is an entrance of about 40 perches large over a low salt
marsh, which is sometimes overflown, and where they may cut a
river. They have three meeting houses, set round with galleries,
and very full; each is as large as an ordinary parish church.
Country houses generally of timber. In Rhode Island the houses
are very good, especially at Newport, where there are more sheep
than anywhere else in New England. The haven is very commo-
dious, being just upon the sea, whereas that of Boston is 2 or 3
miles within the land, and is large enough for 100 ships ; this island
is about 12 miles long and 2 broad, and is the garden of New
England. In Connecticut there is a good harbour at New London,
but the town and trade are not considerable. Knows of navigable
rivers only in Connecticut, not having seen Puscatoa (?Piscataqua) ;
the country is well provided with water. Does not know the number
of islands. In the jurisdiction of Rhode Island is Block Island, first
inhabited about seven years ago, where there is excellent fishing
for cod, but no harbour. Plymouth, Connecticut, and Massa-
chusetts are in a confederacy called the United Colonies, but Rhode
Island is not. The soldiers are all of the inhabitants, they exercise
often twice a week, their horsemen wear buff coats, pistols,
hangers, and corslets ; every soldier bears his own charges, except
in war with the Indians : all that are able bear arms except a few
Anabaptists and the Quakers, who . will not bear any. The
Governors chosen by all the freemen ; the present Governor of
Boston is John Leveret, a resolute man but much opposed by one
Major Dennison ; the election is yearly, though he has been
Governor three years since Mr. Bellingham died. The Governor
of Connecticut is John Winthrop, senr., a very good, ^ober man,
who has been Governor near 20 years, and 1 J years ago got a
Patent from the King. The Governor of New Plymouth is Josiah
Winslow, a moderate man ; the laws of this Colony come nearer
the laws of England than either those of Massachusetts or
222 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Connecticut. The Governor of Rhode Island is William Codington,
a Quaker ; the laws of England are pleaded here, and take place ;
the Governor has only a single vote, at Boston he has a casting
vote. The most tyrannical ministers to those that differ from them
are the Presbyterians, and amongst the fiercest is one Mr. Thatcher,
the only man in the country that keeps a coach. The greatest
part of the ministers are Presbyterians, Anabaptists, and Quakers ;
in Rhode Island, Quakers and Anabaptists rule. There is a con-
siderable party in all the Colonies called Common Protestants, who
in Massachusetts are not permitted to bear any high office, but may
be constables, but in Rhode Island enjoy the same privileges as
others. In the Massachusetts there is a college at Cambridge,
3 miles from Boston, where many preachers, physicians, and
Indians (but no lawyers) are bred ; it has translated the Bible into
the Indian language, and in Massachusetts there are 3 or 4 con-
gregations of Indians, called Praying Indians, and distinguished
from the others in Rhode Island who are unconverted in their
paganism. There was formerly a fencing school in Massachusetts
and Rhode Island ; he does not know whether there is any now.
Gaming not allowed in Massachusetts. As to cloth, there are made
there Linsey woolseys, and other of cotton and wool, and some all
sheeps wool, but the better sort of linen is brought from England ;
they have many woolcombers, and some make Tammyes (?) but for
their private use. Salt they get from Tortudas, not far from
Barbadoes ; it is sold at 10s. the hogshead, and is clear and white as
alum, very sharp and much stronger than ordinary bay salt. Oaths
in Rhode Island the inhabitants take not unless they please, only an
engagement, on penalty of perjury, to perform some office or give
true testimony. The Oath of Allegiance is to the effect of that
ordinarily taken in England, but the Oath of Supremacy differs.
7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 66.]
April 30. 544. Governor Stapleton to the Council for Plantations. Pr -
Nevis. mised in h's last of the 19th inst. to send " these papers ; " is not
prepared for what is required in theirs of 27th October. Two of
his Deputy Governors are going home, Col. Philip Warner of
Antigua for some occasions of his own, and his own brother from
Montserrat, who goes for his health. Will instruct them to satisfy
their Lordships fully as to these Islands, and if possible they shall
have papers relating to St. Christopher's and Nevis. Since the
letters between the French General and himself 12 of their negroes
are runaway to these Islands, but not yet demanded ; thinks it his
duty, and is resolved to deny them, till M. de Baas makes resti-
tution of 15 he sold belonging to his Majesty's subjects, or to sell
them to him that offers most, as he did. In margin, "Rec d
21 June 1675." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 67.]
(May 1 .) 545. " Considerations in order to his Majesty establishing his
interests in New England." Robert Mason's proposals concerning
the Commissioners to be sent to New Hampshire. Deprecates delay,
considering the concurrence of the Proprietors of the best provinces
and the inclinations of the people ; success will bq of manifold ad,-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 223
1675.
vantage to the King and the charge will be altogether inconsiderable.
The King's counsels leading him to bring all the provinces in New
England into a nearer inspection and management, and the first
step being to vindicate the grants made to the ancestors of
Robert Mason and Ferdinando Gorges, in order to the taking of
their properties to himself, it seems advisable that the King should
interpose by way of mediation. And as the Massachusetts, by
their letter to Secretary Morrice of 30 May 1665 desired to be
heard before they were judged, the King may send them a letter
by Commissioners (according to their representation by the late
Council of Plantations, 12 Aug. 1671) to reconcile all differences,
whereby the King may interpose without any dissatisfaction of the
Massachusetts, who may be fairly admonished of their duty and be
at liberty either to acquiesce in the arbitration of the Commis-
sioners or be heard by agents before the King. Thus the King
may be perfectly informed of all interests, and may raise such
observations as to lead him to further counsels and settlements.
The Commissioners may have instructions open and answerable
to the letter written to the Massachusetts and others reserved, by
which they may govern themselves according to the temper of
affairs. That the Commissioners be about five in number, of a
prudent and sober conversation and of several professions, to have
limited instructions to some purposes and powers less limited to
others. That they proceed first to Portsmouth, where there are
said to be many well-inclined to admitting the King's interests as
far as they can, being lately oppressed by the Massachusetts,
publish the King's declaration, summon the inhabitants of Hampshire
and Maine to hear their Commission read, send a messenger to
Boston to signify their arrival and carry the King's letter, and
choose some convenient town as a place of treaty with the
Massachusetts Deputies. That they use means to make an ac-
quaintance with the chief atnd best-inclined persons in the two
provinces, to let them under-tand that the King has taken counsel
for employing his care for their further prosperity, and giving a
good title of inheritance to all in possession that desire confirmation
under the King's authority, paying only the twentieth penny of
the yearly value for yearly rent. That, as soon as they find a fit
temper in the people, they treat about the improvement of trade,
the supplying the King with masts, &c., and show the advantages
which will arise by a better correspondence with England and by
their cheerful submission to those ordinary duties which are set
upon trade in [all other the King's dominions, the inconsistency of
the King's permitting any people, especially his own, to be exempt
from those rules of government and commerce which support trade
and the interest of State ; seeing that he provides for the safety of
New England as belonging to the Crown, he may justly expect
some benefit from their trade, it belonging to the King's care to
provide for the general balance of trade. As soon as good im-
pressions are made on the inhabitants, the Commissioners should
declare the King's intention to give all possible encouragement to
trade in New England, but if any town does not readily submit to
224 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
the necessary regulations and duties, it will not be permitted
to trade with any other of the King's plantations and dominions
but on payment of double duties. That the Commissioners be em-
powered to leave one or more of their number in such places as
they shall find requisite, and join other persons in commission who
may signally show their forward affections to the King's service,
so that the provinces may be sooner settled. Draft of the
King's declaration to be published in New England, informing the
people that he has appointed Commissioners to examine and ac-
commodate differences and return after 12 months, and that if the
differences are not settled then, the disagreeing parties are to choose
agents to appear before the King for his final determination.
Draft of the King's letter to the Massachusetts to the same
effect. Endorsed, " Read by the Lords of the Committee, 1 May
1675." 4pp. Two copies. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 68, 69.]
Annexed,
545. 1. Richard Bellingham, Governor of the Massachusetts, to
Sec. Sir Win. Morrice, 30 May 1665. Calendared in a
previous volume (1661-68), p. 301, No. 1001, with Re-
turns of the Massachusetts Commissioners respecting the
northern bounds. Endorsed, " Read before the Lords of
the Com** 5 , 1 May 1675." [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 70.]
545. H. The King to the Governor of the Massachusetts, 10 April
1666. Calendared in a previous volume (1661-68),^. 372,
No. 1171. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LX,, pp. 21-22.]
May 1. 546. Copies of the above " Considerations " and the papers
annexed. Annexed,
546. I. "Result of the Committee." Their Lordships having
considered the aforesaid papers, order that Mr. Attorney
and Mr. Solicitor General do examine the titles of Mason
and Gorges, that his Majesty be moved to send 5 men
of great sobriety and discretion as Commissioners to New
England, to end all differences, or to tell those on the other
side to send back Commissioners ; that the Lord Treasurer
be desired to send to the Commissioners of Customs for
their opinion about the Acts of Trade and Navigation in
New England. Conceive the charge may amount to
8,000?., but the advantages of a settlement make it
inconsiderable.
546. II. The Committee of Trade and Plantations to the Lord
Treasurer. Desire to understand the opinion of the Com-
missioners of Customs how far the Acts of Trade and
Navigation take notice of New England, what violations
thereof they have observed there, and of what ill
consequence, and what rules they think most proper for
the remedy.
546. III. Order of the Committee. Directing the Attorney and
Solicitor General to examine the titles of Mason and
Gorges. [Co?, Entry Bk., Vol. LX., pp. 9-25.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 225
1675.
May 1. 547. Copies of the above " Result of the Committee " and "Letter
to the Lord Treasurer." [Col. Entry Eks., Vol. CIV., pp. 22, 23,
and VoLXCVII.,p.ll.]
May 3-8. 548, Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. The Act for
Rt. Jago de la Naturalization returned from the Assembly, with amendments.
Vega. j ne ^ c g or preventing nuisances, regulating Marshall's pro-
ceedings in executions, rating meat, preventing trusting seamen,
preventing fraud in rum, against tippling, cursing, and swearing,
for preventing stealing of boats, for foreign attachments, em-
powering the Secretary to take sufficient security, and against
excessive usury, read and passed ; also for Surveyors, with amend-
ment. The Act for raising money read ; and French pistols to pass
current at 20s., silver French crowns at 5s., and all other moneys
of that coin proportionably.
May 4. The following Acts read and passed, viz. : for freight of boats,
prohibiting commodities, celebration of the 10th May, empowering
the Churchwardens of St. Katherine's to prevent the retailing of
strong liquors, for encouragement of Mr. Lassel, for preventing
damage by fire, preserving Savannas, regulating hunting, for
Mr. Tothill's estate, against suing foreign debts in 5 years, and for
Recovery of Subsriptions.
May 5. The Act for the enrolment of Deeds, with amendment, considered,
and further amendment proposed. The Act of Revenue returned
with divers amendments from the Assembly, at whose request 3
of the Council were appointed to confer thereon with a Committee
of the Assembly.
May 6. Sir Thos. Modyford and Sir Thos. Lynch's accounts returned
by the Assembly with divers observations. The Act for encouraging
the building of a town at Old Harbour read and passed. Report
of the Committee of Council on the amendments agreed upon for
the Act of Revenue ; 1,500Z. to be given to his Excellency and paid
next after the contingent charges ; the residences of St. Jago and
Port Royal for the Captain-General and Lieutenant-General to be
omitted ; the salaries to be 2,000?. and 6001. per annum, paid pro-
portionably ; and the General's order to be Warrant to the
Treasurer. Thomas Freeman and Hender Molesworth appointed
to join a Committee of the Assembly in drawing up said Act.
May 7. The Act for Liberty of Conscience referred to further debate.
The Act confirming Orders of Council read ; the present Chief
Judge, &c., to be inserted in the order about Mr. Cussans and
Capt. Rose, instead of John White ; other clauses about Jews and
Capt. Richard Brayne, &c., to be omitted. The Act for collecting
Quit Rents read, with amendments. The Act for Enrolment of
Deeds passed, with amendments.
May 8. The Act for preservation of cattle read. Also for Negro Slaves,
Maintenance of the Ministry, Christian Servants, and Repairing
and Amending Highways, read and passed. [Col. Entry Bk n
No. XXXV., 410-419.]
May 5. 549. Order of the King in Council. The Committee for Foreign
Whitehall. Plantations having this day reported their opinion touching the,
72843, P
226 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
iticonveniencies of a Colony and inhabiting of his Majesty's subjects
in Newfoundland, and his Majesty having thought fit to order the
Commander of his convoy bound this year to that place to
admonish the inhabitants either to return to England or betake
themselves to other of his Majesty's Plantations; ordered, that
Sec. Williamson prepare letters to the several Governors of said
Foreign Plantations to receive any of said inhabitants of Newfound-
land with favour, and afford them all convenient help towards their
settlement. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34-, No. 71.]
May 5. 550. Order in Council. Upon reading the Report of the Corn-
Whitehall, mittee for Foreign Plantations of 15th April, as follows: they have
in obedience to his Majesty's Order of 12th February considered
Mr. Hinton's petition and papers touching the necessity of placing
a Governor at Newfoundland for the advantage of that fishery, and
have perused all the papers touching this affair and sent advertise-
ment to all the Western Ports, and heard their agents and other
principal Merchants of the Exchange, some for the encouragement
of a Colony and Governor, but many more against both ; and the
points that seemed very clear were as follow : (1) The French have
of late years applied themselves with great industry and public
encouragement to the fishing trade on one of the sides of Newfound-
land, so that the English serve none of the markets of France as
formerly, but on the contrary, the French are found in many other
foreign markets as early as the English ; (2) the people of New
England take about 60,000 kintals of fish a year on their own
coasts, and by increasing that trade bring much detriment to that of
Newfoundland ; (3) for some years the fish has failed in Newfound-
land, and the Adventurers have lost many ships and hands in the
wars, especially with Spain, and the inhabitants and planters who,
contrary to their Charter, live within six miles of the sea, destroy
the woods and whatever the Adventurers yearly leave, possess the
best places before the Adventurers return, and mostly sell wine and
brandy, whereby the seamen are withdrawn from their labour and
seduced to stay, leaving their families a burden to their parishes at
home. From all which t'was easy to believe that the complaints of
a decay of trade were very just, but as for Mr. Hinton's proposal,
their Lordships could not find that a Governor would cure any
part, (1) because the planters, numbering 800 or 1,000, live
scattered in 25 harbours, betwixt Renouse (?) and Bonavista, which
are almost 80 leagues asunder ; (2) in all the winter, when the abuses
are many of them done, there is no passing from one place to another,
so that near 40 harbours would have no Government though a
Governor were in the country ; (3) besides the charge of forts and
a Governor which the fish trade cannot support, any such defence
against foreigners is needless, the coast being defended in the
winter by ice, and must in summer be the resort of his Majesty's
subjects, for that place will always belong to him that is superior
at sea. So that unless their Lordships saw reasons for a Colony,
they could see none for a Governor ; and against a Colony there
are not only the rigours of the climate and infertility of the land,
but the inhabitants chiefly consume the products of New England,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 227
1675
and would in time tread in the same steps, to the loss of England,
for a like regulation on the products of this place as on those of
other Plantations could not be expected, because fish cannot bear
the charge of coming home but must go directly to the markets
abroad. As concerning the French, find they manage the trade by
the Adventurers ships that yearly go out and return, for their fort
at Placentia in the south part of the island is only to defend them
from the Indians who come off from the main and molest them in
their beaver trade, for which trade only they inhabit there. Find
also that the Adventurers can catch fish cheaper than the Planters,
and that the English do in general still preserve a superiority in the
trade over the French. So that on the whole matter their Lordships
find the Rules formerly settled in Council, the 10th March 1670-71,
needed only some few additions to make the trade revive, which
are proposed as follow : (1) That all inhabiting in that country be
discouraged, and that the Commander of his Majesty's convoy this
year, declare his Majesty's pleasure to all Planters that they come
voluntarily away, and that next year his Majesty's convoys will
begin to put in execution the ancient Charter forbidding any
Planters to inhabit within six miles of the shore from Cape Race to
Bonavista, and to seize and send home any offenders, and in this
single point their Lordships conceive consists the validity and good
effect of the whole regulation ; (2) that the convoy assist in
transporting those desirous to return home, and to declare that if
they choose to betake themselves to other Plantations, the Governors
are now written to and commanded to receive them with all
favour ; and such letters it is proposed may be speedily sent to said
Governors. Also that the convoy be ordered to enquire whether
any strangers, in this time of war, come there to fish under pretext
of being English ; and in case of jealousy, to enquire into their
passes and sea briefs, and how they have been procured ; also to
enquire into the state of the French trade, the number of their ships
and whether a more or less number this year than formerly ; and cf
all his observations and journals to send a duplicate to this Com-
mittee ; (3) that his Majesty's Counsel be directed, as formerly, to
review the powers formerly given by his Majesty's Charter of
Confirmation, for trying treasons, felonies, murders there, and if
deficient, report what sort of judicature should be erected ; (4) and
that when his Majesty has settled in what hands that power shall
be placed, the Mayors of the Western Ports be required to renew
their Charter, with the additional Rules and Powers, and that the
same be printed, and a proclamation issued to enforce the same.
Ordered , that all necessary orders forthwith issue for the better
effecting the several things advised in the above Report, that so by
a due course to be taken in Newfoundland and by a renewal and
enlargement of the Charter for better regulation of things at home
and the punishment of crimes committed, said trade may recover
and mariners be increased to the public benefit and welfare of this
Kingdom. [Col. Entry 13k., No. XCVI., 2-8.]
May 5. 551. Mem. of preceding Order in Council, though headed
"Order upon report of the Committee concerning Surinam :>
P 2
228
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
May 9.
Whitehall.
" that island " is corrected to " Newfoundland." Also Draft Mem.
That when Mr. Attorney returns his Report of the Judicature, there
must issue a new Order requiring the Mayors to surrender their
old Charter and take a new one, with the additional powers of
10th March 1670-71, concluding with a direction to the Attorney
General to prepare a Bill for the King's signature accordingly ; and
order for printing the Charter, and for Proclamation of the matter.
1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 72.]
552. Warrant to (the Attorney General). Whereas his Majesty
has received information from Sir Jonathan Atkins, Knt., Governor
of Barbadoes, and from the testimony on oath of William Hamlyn
of Antigua, mariner, that in 1673, Col. Philip Warner, Deputy
Governor of Antigua, having undertaken an expedition against the
Indians to windward of Dominica, with the assistance of Thomas
Warner, Deputy Governor of Dominica, after the enterprise was over
invited said Thomas Warner and the Indians with him to the number
of 60 or 70 men, women, and children to an entertainment of thanks
for their good service, and having made them drunk, the English,
upon signal from Col. Warner, fell upon Thomas Warner and his
company and killed all or the greater part of them, and it is
believed that this slaughter was committed by the sole direction of
said Col. Plilip Warner. To the end that so inhuman an attempt
should be duly examined, and the persons convicted brought to
condign punishment, it is his Majesty's pleasure that a Bill be
prepared to pass the Great Seal containing a Special Commission
of Oyer and Terminer, authorizing Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of
Barbadoes, and (blank) whereof said Governor to be always one, to
hear the matter aforesaid, pass such sentence and judgment as shall
be agreeable to law and justice, and cause the same to be put in execu-
tion. Beneath is a wiemorandum. This warrant passed no further
but instead thereof a letter was signed by his Majesty, to Sir
Jonathan Atkins (and entered in the Plantation Book) requiring him
to try the parties accused according to the powers of his Commission,
3 pp. [Dom. Entry Bk. Chas. II., Vol. 28, pp. 131d,
May 11. 553. Warrant to (the Attorney General). Whereas Thomas
Whitehall. Lewis has informed his Majesty that he lately sent one of his sons,
Thomas Lewis, on the frigate Foresight to Jamaica to settle there,
but some differences happening between him and another young
man it was the fortune (sic) of said Lewis to kill the other in a duel
at Barbadoes, for which he has been condemned but reprieved for
his Majesty's pleasure, and said Thomas Lewis having besought his
Majesty's mercy for the life of his son, it is his Majesty's pleasure
that he prepare a Bill to pass the Great Seal, containing a grant
of his Majesty's pardon to said Thomas Lewis for the death of
William Acton, gent., and all indictments and forfeitures by reason
thereof. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. 28, pp. 133, 133d]
May 11-15. 554. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Three Acts, for col-
St. Jago de la lecting the Quit Rents, for enrolment of Deeds, and for preservation
VegR * of Cattle, read and passed. An Act for dividing the Parishes read
juid sent to the Assembly, with an Amendment. An Act em-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 229
1675.
powering Justices of the Peace to decide all differences under 40s.
read, with an Amendment. An Act declaring the Laws of England
in force read, with an Amendment. The several Amendments in
the Act of the Militia sent from the Assembly consented to, except
the omission of the Proviso concerning his Excellency's Commission,
which the Council still adhere to, and an additional Clause to be
inserted. Petition to His Royal Highness, proposed by his Ex-
cellency instead of re-enacting the Law for free importation of
negroes, ordered to be signed by the Clerk and recorded, and sent
to the Assembly to be signed by the Speaker. His Excellency's
representations of the great affection His Royal Highness has for
this place have transported them with joy, and that they may be
better enabled to make some grateful returns, they beg His Royal
Highness to interpose with the Royal African Company to furnish
the Island annually with a plentiful supply of negroes at moderate
rates, whereby his Majesty's Customs will be considerably increased
and the Colony exceedingly strengthened.
May 12. Concurrence of the Assembly in the Petition to the Duke, with
the thanks of the whole House to his Excellency for proposing so
good an expedient. Accounts presented by Sam. Bernard, Esq.,
Treasurer, examined, and ordered to be filed with the Clerk of
the Council, as also the Account current which follows, total
1,854Z. 9s. 3d., leaving a balance due from the Treasury of
269Z. 10s. 9d.
May 13. Acts for dividing the Island into Parishes, declaring the Laws of
England in force, empowering Justices of the Peace to decide all
differences under 40s., establishing the Fees of the several Officers,
and collecting Quit Rents, read and passed. The Act for the
Militia returned from the Assembly ; his Excellency and Council
consented to the omission of shopkeepers, but adhered to the last
Clause, his Excellency declaring his meaning was only to preserve
his commission from being encroached upon.
May 14. The Act of Revenue read and passed. His Excellency and
Council consented to the Act of Militia, which was read and passed.
Acts, for repealing an Act for the Suppression of Lawyers, for
quieting all persons' estates against dormant titles, and for con-
firming divers Orders of Council, read and passed. Acts, about
Surveyors, for raising the value of money, and for the better
maintenance of the Ministry, read and passed.
May 15. The Act of Revenue presented from the Assembly, with an
Amendment ; his Excellency urged that the Committee had agreed
that the Governor's warrant should be the Treasurer's discharge,
and sent it back to be further considered. Reasons sent from the
Assembly for adhering to their vote, which his Excellency debated
with them, saying he had no other meaning than that the Treasurer
should be secure. After an hour's adjournment Wm. Beeston, Esq.,
acquainted his Excellency from the Assembly that the Act of
Revenue was passed, and prayed that all the Acts might now be
presented to his Excellency by their Speaker, and signed in their
presence uncording to the custom of this place ; to which his Ex-
cellency answered that he should guide himself according to the
usage of Parliaments in England, and desired that the Speaker and
230 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
all the Assembly should attend him. The Acts presented to his
Excellency by the Speaker and Assembly as fully passed in their
house, praying he would sign them in their presence ; to which he
answered that they must withdraw, for they could not be witnesses
to anything he did by virtue of his negative voice ; on which the
Speaker said a vote had passed that unless his Excellency would
sign them in their presence he was to bring them all back, and by
no means to part with them, to which his Excellency replied the
vote was altogether unparliamentary, and that having passed the
Acts 3 times their consents were bound, and they were wholly
dispossessd of them, and could not consider them as any records
belonging to them ; whereupon the Speaker desired to know what
means the subjects might use to procure an Act beneficial to them-
selves ; to which his Excellency answered that it was in their power
to delay any other Act till their petition was granted. The
Speaker and Assembly having withdrawn, his Excellency signed
the ensuing Acts, being what the Speaker had presented, viz. : Acts
for better maintenance of the Ministry ; for ascertaining the number
of Assembly men ; for raising the public Revenue ; for dividing the
Island into Parishes ; for foreign Attachments ; for regulating the
Marshal's proceedings in levying Executions ; for settling the Militia ;
for taking out Patents and speedily collecting his Majesty's Quit
Rents ; requiring the enrolment of Deeds ; for repairing Highways ;
for compensation of Mr. Scarlett, &c. ; to prevent the retailing of
Strong Liquors by unlicensed persons ; for remedying Nuisances ;
empowering the Secretary to take security ; against tippling,
cursing, and swearing ; for the good governing of Servants ; for the
good government of Negroes ; for regulating Fees ; for confirming
Orders of Council ; to prevent fraud in makers and sellers of Rum ;
to prevent Damages by Fire ; establishing the current price of
Money ; repealing the Act suppressing multiplicities of Lawsuits ;
for regulating Hunting; for establishing the Supreme Court of
Judicature at St. Jago de la Vega ; for the recovery of Sub-
scriptions, &c. ; preventing abuses by Surveyors ; for preserving
Savannas ; against excessive usury ; empowering Justices of the
Peace to decide differences under 40s. ; for rating meat sold by
retail ; prohibiting the transportation of several commodities out
of this Island ; declaring it felony to steal a boat ; for quieting all
Estates against dormant Titles ; for naturalization ; empowering
the Churchwardens of St. Katherine's ; against suing for foreign
debts for 5 years ; declaring the Laws of England in force ; for
regulating the freight of boats ; for the keeping holy the 10th of
May ; for the preservation of cattle ; to prevent seamen leaving
their ships ; to encourage shipping to load at Old Harbour ; for
the encouragement of Mr. Lassells ; and for the sale of Mr. Tothill's
Estate. The Speaker and Assembly sent for by his Excellency,
who having declared that he had signed all the Acts presented by
the Speaker, prorogued them to December next. [Col. Entry Bh,
No. XXXV., 419-434.]
May 12. 555. Warrant confirming Nathaniel Bacon, one of his Majesty's
Whitehall. Council for Virginia, in consideration of his good services and
i AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 231
1675.
abilities in the office of Auditor of the public accounts of that
Colony, in the room of Edward Diggs, late Auditor, deceased.
I p. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 73 ; also Col Entry Bk., Vol. 110,
p. 66.]
May 12. 556. Report of the Commissioners of the Customs to the Council
for Foreign Plantations on the execution of the Navigation Acts in
New England. New England is subject to the laws that relate to
the Plantation Trade, abstract of which is annexed. As regards the
violation of these laws, they are informed that before the law for
regulating the Plantation Trade made in the 25th year of the
King imposing certain duties on sugar, tobacco, cotton wool,
indigo, ginger, logwood, fustick, and cocoa-nuts, several of these
commodities were brought from the respective plantations to New
England, thence transported to Ireland and other foreign parts.
They hope that since the making of the said law and officers
appointed to carry it into execution, the inconveniences may be
prevented, and they are advised that since the King's letter to the
Government of Virginia they have taken bonds of some ships as
the law formerly directed. They are informed that several ships
have laden commodities of the growth and manufacture of Europe
in other parts of Europe than the King's dominions, and have
unladen the same in New England contrary to the said law. As
to the damage arising thereby to the King's profit, it is provided
by the said law that England should be a staple for the com-
modities of the plantations and of other countries for their supply
to be carried directly from England and from no other place ; but if
contrary to the law through the connivance or negligence of the
officers in the other plantations, the enumerated commodities should
be laden for New England without payment of duties and without
a bond to bring them to England, foreign parts may be made a
magazine for these commodities ; and if European goods should be
exported there from other places, the plantations will be thence
supplied with them to the prejudice of the trade of England. They
have nothing on which to ground a calculation of the particular
detriment thus arising. As for rules to remedy these incon-
veniences, they advise that all Governors be required to take the
oath for executing the law, and be strictly required to suffer no
ship to trade there, but those belonging to England or some
English plantation and navigated according to law, to seize any
vessel importing European commodities proscribed by law if not
actually laden in England, and to take bonds with securities of all
masters of vessels to bring and unlade in some port of England,
Wales, or Berwick, all the enumerated plantation commodities.
Signed : Geo. Downing, Wm. Garway, Fr. Millington, and John
Upton. Annexed,
556. I. Abstract of laws relating to the plantation trade. 3 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 74, 75 ; also Col. Entry ks.,
No. 60, p. 29, and No. 97, p. 12.]
May 12. 557. Caveat that no grant pass of any fine of 5001. imposed
upon Giles Bland in Virginia for some quarrel with the Secretary
232
COLONIAL PAPERS,
1675,
May 13,
of the Council there.
p. 10.]
4 lines. [Dom. Entry Bk, Chas. II., Vol. 45,
558. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. Ordered, that the
Grand Sessions be holden on 8th June next, and that summons be
timely issued as accustomed, and sent to the Privy Council living
in the parish. p. [Col. Entry Book, No. XL, 288.]
May 14, 559. Report of Sir Win. Jones and Sir Fras. Winnington,
Attorney and Solicitor General to the Committee for Foreign
Plantations. Have considered the matter referred to them 1st
instant [see ante, No. 546 1.]. Find that Sir Ferdinando Gorges in
the 15th year of Charles I. obtained a grant to him and his heirs
under the great seal, of a considerable part of New England in
America called Maine, to be holden of some rents as of the manor
of East Greenwich ; are of opinion that Ferdinando Gorges, being
the grandson and heir of Sir Ferdinando Gorges, has a good title
to the province of Maine. Underwritten, Read at the Committee,
24th May 1675. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 76 ; also Col.
Entry Bk., No. 60, p. 26.]
May 14.
Aboard the
America.
560. Edward Cranfield and Ri. Dickenson to Sir Robt.
Southwell. Left Madeira 27th April, and meeting with ships
bound for Barbadoes, took the opportunity of sending duplicates
of their proceedings at Madeira and rendering account how pro-
pitious the winds have been. If they meet with a courteous
reception at Surinam, doubt not their dispatches may be effected
without much demurrage of time, and will take care to discharge
the ships with all expedition according to their instructions. p.
[Col. Entry Bk, No. LXXVIII., 95.]
May 17. 561. Earl of Shaftesbury to his affectionate and faithful friend
Capt. John Wentworth, Governor of New Providence. Has
received his letters of 26th August and 13th October. Can give
no further directions concerning the Brazilletto than were in their
general letter. The Lords Proprietors are resolved not to be
wronged, they have a good right to the land and the wood that
grows upon it, and will not want means to make good their right.
Thought himself very truly his friend, and that his Lordship had
made the Proprietors, Adventurers, and his interest the same, and
had the design to bring Wentworth to a great and lasting condition
and quality had he proved himself as expected, but his Lordship
must tell him plainly that he has reason to apprehend Capt.
Darrell and Mr. Colleton have found ways to lead him more to
their interest than to that of the Proprietors or Adventurers, though
in the end Wentworth will find the difference in dealing with such
men rather than with the Proprietors, who not only walk by rules
of honour but have the power to right themselves. Do not think
such men as those are able to overthrow the design. As still
desirous to be his friend, tells him plainly if he desires to continue
(governor he must break off all correspondence with them or any
Shaftesbury
Papers.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES, 233
1675.
other interest against the Proprietors or Adventurers. Leaves
the Spanish trade to the Adventurers' management, though his
Lordship thought he might have been very useful to them. Desires
to know whether he holds the place of Governor as chosen by the
people or the Proprietors, for if by the former the latter will
quickly try how safe the island will be under another. Reasons
for this question, offers his friendship if Wentworth will have it,
the terms are not difficult, to be just and faithful to those who
employ him. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48,
No. 55, p. 149.]
May 17. 562. Earl of Shaftesbury to his assured good friend [Isaac]
Exeter House. Rush. Has received his of the 10th Aug., and is sorry there was any
mistake concerning him, for the Proprietors opinion of him is that
he is a discreet, honest, and plain dealing man. Is not satisfied
that the Adventurers' agent has not made better use of his assist-
Shaftesbury ance> Hopes his island will be much better supplied for the future,
apere. or it i s i n t en d e( i to be a mart and staple for the neighbouring
plantations. If he continue on the island he may expect better
advantages every way than he can have in any other place. Has
spoken to the Adventurers' agent to make use of his assistance in
future and will get him profitable employment. Commends his
honesty and integrity and assures him of his Lordship's friendship
upon all occasions. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48.
No. 55,^.150.]
May 17. 563. Report of the Attorney and Solicitor General to the Com-
mittee of Plantations. Have examined the claims of Robert
Mason to the province of New Hampshire, and find that King
James, 3rd November 1620, granted to several persons under the
name of the Council of New England all the mainland in America
lying between 40 and 48 N. lat., and that John Mason, grand-
father of Robert Mason, by several grants from this Council, dated
9 March 1620, 7 November 1629, and 22 April 1635 ; was instated in
fee in sundry great tracts of land in New England by the name of
New Hampshire. Are of opinion that Robert Mason, being the
heir of the said John Mason, hath a good and legal title to the
lands called New Hampshire. Underwritten, Read at Committee,
24 May 1675. 1 p. Two copies. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, Nos. 77, 78 ;
also Col Entry Bk., No. 60, pp. 27, 28.]
May 17. 564. Peter Beckford (Sec. of Jamaica) to Sec. Sir Joseph
St. Jago de la Williamson. Since his last little of moment has happened. The
Vega- Assembly met 26th April and my Lord made them a pithy and
gracious speech. Will send copies of some of the Acts by the
next ; all that were new were an Act for naturalizing all strangers
here, and an Act to repeal a former Act against the pleading of
lawyers in any of our Courts of Common Pleas. In the Act of
Revenue they have given my Lord 1 ,500Z. to be paid out of the
Public Treasury next after the contingencies, and 2,0001. per annum
to his Excellency, and 6001. per annum (if the Treasury hold out) to
pur Lieut.-Gpvemor, his Lordship to be judge of the contingencies,
234 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
May 18.
Wallingford
House.
and all to be paid by Warrant from his Exchequer to the Treasurer.
Advice from Tortudas, that the French are making up a fleet, and
a great body of men to attack some considerable place of the
Spaniards ; and from St. Jago on Cuba, that the Queen Regent of
Spain has sent orders to the Governor there, on notice of the
arrival of Sir Thos. Modyford and Sir Henry Morgan in Jamaica
immediately to advise her thereof. Two days since they had
advice of a ship of this island laden with logwood taken by the
Spaniards and carried into San Domingo. Sends copy of address
from the Assembly to his Royal Highness. The 1 4th inst. his
Excellency, having consented to the Acts, prorogued the Assembly
till the 13th Dec. next. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 79.]
565. Earl of Danby, Lord Treasurer, to the Committee for
Foreign Plantations. Has transmitted to the Comissioners of
Customs the paper sent to him concerning the pretensions of
Mason and Gorges to the provinces of New Hampshire and Maine,
who have reported their opinion on the whole matter, which is
herewith sent. Encloses,
565. I. The Report of Commissioners of Customs about New
England, calendared, see ante, No. 556. Endorsed, Read
before the Lords of the Committee 24 May 1675. Read
again 2 Dec. 1675. Together, 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
Nos. 80, 80 1. ; also Col. Entry Bks., Vol. LX., pp. 29-36,
and Vol. XCVIL, pp. 12-21.]
May 18. 566. Governor Lord Vaughan to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson.
Jamaica. Wrote about a month since advising of his arrival and the receipt
of his letter by Peter Beckford, to whom he has been very kind
and will continue so to be. Sends this by their friend Sir Thos.
Lynch, for he shall now always call him so, being very well satisfied
with his prudent government and conduct of affairs ; to whom he
refers for particulars of what has occurred since his landing, as
likewise of the unlucky shipwreck of Sir Hen. Morgan and loss of
his Majesty's stores occasioned by his particular ill conduct and
wilful breach of his positive and written orders, and his behaviour
and weakness since at the meeting of the Assembly ; which, with
other follies, have so tired him that he is perfectly weary of
him, and frankly tells Williamson that he thinks it for his
Majesty's service he should be removed, and the charge of so useless
an officer saved. What he strove for in England was not so much
for Sir Henry as against the dividing of the Commissions, which he
considered would cause disputes. What he has further discoursed to
^ir Thos. Lynch he will communicate. Has written all the Ministers
the truth of this miscarriage, and believes his Majesty and his
Royal Highness will much resent it. Should the King make this
alteration that in the absence or approaching death of the Governor
he should have power to appoint a fitting deputy, approved by his
Majesty, there being need of none during the Governor's residence,
a power Lord Windsor had, he would rather recommend Sir Thos.
Lynch than any one. 2 pp. [Colt Papers, Vol< 34 ? No, 81.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 235
1675.
May 22. 567. The King to Lord Vaughan, Governor of Jamaica. Thomas
Martyn having been obliged to remain in England some time
since the granting his Letters Patent for the place of Receiver in
Jamaica and now repairing to the execution of his charge, the
King commands that no advantage be taken of his stay here, and
that he suffer no molestation in relation to his said office, and that
the Governor recommend him to the Council there that he proceed
with the better success in the discharge of his place, but that he
give the Governor once a year a regular account of his receipts.
1| pp. [Col Entry Bk., Vol. 110, pp. 72, 73.]
May 24. 568. Minutes of the Committee for Plantations. Reports of the
Attorney and Solicitor General on the claims of Gorges and Mason
read, in which the Lords acquiesce as finding the title good. Letter
from the Lord Treasurer of the 18th, enclosing report of the Com-
missioners of the Customs of the 12th, read. Commissioners to be
consulted as to whether all Governors have taken the oath for the
observance of the Navigation Acts and before whom, and whether
all such Governors return the bonds taken. Collection to be made
of all Commissions given to foreign Governors, of the Charters and
Grants of the American plantations, at what time and how they
came under the sovereignty of his Majesty, and how they hold of
him. Copies ordered of the grants of Mason and Gorges, the
Massachusetts Charter in Mr. Slingsby's hands ; enquiry to be
made about the two warrants in 1637, the answer of the Bostoners
to his Majesty's letter of 1666, for the papers of Col. Nicholls and
the Commissioners sent to New England ; to see into the Council
Books for all papers relating to New England. Those papers were
presented to the Council of Plantations by Lord Arlington 26 June
1671. Quaere Mr. Slingsby about them. Series of all papers
possible to be got in this affair to be collected and put together.
3 pp. [Col. Entry Bk, No. 104, pp. 23-25.]
May 25. 569. Mr. Ball's proposals about the Mainotti. Has often much
Livome compassionated the Mainotti, who are the inhabitants of the
(? Leg orn). f amous Morea, and has discovered much with a Greek, an intel-
ligent man, who manages all their affairs, and who doubts not, if
his Majesty please, or any of his subjects who can give them land,
to procure many thousands of them to go and inhabit any secure
part of America under his Majesty's dominion^ They have been
turbulent, and the Turk endeavours what possible to drive them
out of the country, laying a tax of so much per head, taking away
their children, and not suffering them to exercise their religion,
which is of the Greek Church. The Grand Duke pays the passage
of all that will come at 5s. 4x1. per head ; many English ships have
brought them in his time, and this year past came 400 or 500, and
hears they have freighted two French polaccas, and want more.
The Duke gives them land on the sea coast of Sienna, which is so
bad an air that few live, and corn to sow, but otherwise treats
them badly, so that they come to nothing. The Duke of Savoy
has likewise lately courted them to come into their country, and
whoever brings them to Villafranca is to have 5| pieces of 8
236 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
per head. Ships go to Porto Vitolo, and an open road called
Praitea, over against Candia (here called Braccia de Main), and
men, women, and children embark, the Turk having no command
to hinder them. Near that place may be 6,000 or 7,000, and on
the Morea 4,000, who live in caves, woods, &c., and might all be
got off. They are very laborious, great herdsmen, and make much
oil, wine, wax, cotton, and silk, and doubtless would produce the
like in any proper country, as Virginia, Jamaica, &c., with which
his Majesty is so well furnished, wanting only people to be the
greatest prince in the world. They only desire the free exercise of
their religion, and enough land to maintain them. His Majesty
might order that commanders of ships bringing them to Tangiers
or rather England shall have so much per head, and then ships
bound for the place alloted have so much per head again ; and the
many ships going yearly home from Zante might carry a great
many, or as these ships of war now bound for the Levant are
called home, they might be ordered to bring them away, and this
great deed of charity might be done with little charge, 15 or 20
pieces of 8 per head would do, for they live almost on nothing, and
commonly carry their own provisions. About 400 of them bound
hither were lately carried to Algiers, it would be a great deed of
charity to redeem them, ] 00 pieces of 8 per head would do it, and
they would be slaves to his Majesty till they had paid it with
interest. Endorsed, " Read at the Committee of Plantation
24 Sept. 1675." 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 82 ; also Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. 97, p. 25.]
May 26. 570. Forty-eight Acts passed in the island of Nevis, 26th May
Nevis. 1675, viz. : (1.) An Act for settling an-Jmpost on the Commo-
dities of the growth of this Island. (2.) Against profanation of
the Sabbath. (3.) For encouragement of Ministers and other
Church officers. (4,) Constables not to refuse to serve. (5.)
Plantations not to be sold again until first paid for. (6.) Actions
of Nisi Prius, 1,000 Ib. sugar. (7.) Ships and boats to enter into
security. . (8.) Women servants inveigled. (9.) Instead of torches,
lanthorn and candle (against the use of torches for crabbing, or
smoking tobacco near any canes or other combustible matter).
(10.) Executions and their penalties. (11.) Breadth of common
paths. (12.) Non-subscribers to elections. (13.) Negroes not to
sport or absent themselves on the Lord's day. (14.) Marshal's
duty to the public. (15.) Running away with boats. (16.)
Servants sold by indenture or otherwise. (17.) Washing in
cisterns, ponds, slabbs, or guts. (18.) Provision for the Poor.
(19.) Powder duties. (20.) Prohibition against clearing into other
men's lands. (21.) White men not to keep company with negroes.
(22.) Damages against trespass. (23.) Accounts left upon oath
not pleadable, no assignments of bills without the knowledge of
the debitor. (24.) Marshal or deputy not to serve or levy any
execution or warrant in time of Court. (25.) Penalty on persons
denying to serve in the public employ. (26.) Women not to
answer in lieu of their husbands in any Court of Judicature.
(27.) Chirurgeons not to practice^vithout licence from the authority.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 237
1675.
(28.) For encouraging import of servants : for encouragement
of servants by indenture. (29.) Prohibition of importing rum.
(30.) Concerning rates of liquors for taverns and tippling houses.
(31.) Regulation of Secretary's and Marshal's fees (title only).
(32.) Against running away with boats (dated 19th May 1675).
(33.) Concerning appraisement of lands and houses (dated 19th
May 1675). (34.) For suppression of thatched houses. (35.)
Against killing negroes. (36.) Concerning going on board ships
and other vessels. (37.) For due places for payment of sugar.
(38.) For raising the price of money. (39.) For rates of sugar in
money. (40.) For establishment and settlement of lands. (41.)
For tickets and let passes. (42.) For storehouse-keepers to keep
56 Ibs. of powder. (43.) Concerning outcries. (44.) For killing
hogs, goats, and fowls. (45.) Concerning labourer's hire. (46.)
For planting of corn. (47.) Against demolishment of fortifi-
cations. And (48.) against carrying of commodities and enter-
taining foreigners. Endorsed, "Reed, from Col. Stapleton, 27th
of Aug. 1678." Together, 47 pp. [Col. Entry Bh, No. L.,
89-140.]
[May.] 571. Sir Thos. Lynch's account of the state of the Church in
Jamaica. Jamaica. Mr. Hayne, a young man, good scholar, and ortho lox
preacher, is minister at Port Royal ; he has 200Z, per annum, and
the greatest cure, where all the merchants and tradesmen reside,
and vessels and strangers resort. Mr. Hansyer, an honest man,
good liver, and reasonable preacher, is minister at St. Jago, where
the Governor and some gentlemen live, the parish is called
St. Catherine's, out of which St. Thomas and St. Dorothy's have
lately been taken, but as yet they jointly contribute to pay the
minister 130Z. per annum. Mr. Lemon, a sober young man, and
very good preacher, is minister at Guinaboa, St. John's parish ; he
has 100Z. per annum from the parish, and about as much from
Col. Coape for keeping a free school he has erected. Mr. Cellar,
esteemed a sober honest man, is minister at Lygonee, St. Andrew's
parish, where he has a house, glebe land, and 100Z. per annum ;
he and Mr. Hansyer are Swiss by birth. None but these four
parishes are supplied, though there are 14 in the island. In Vere
or Wyttiywood there is a church, and that and Clarendon parish
adjoining are able and willing to give a minister 100. per annum ;
at Yhallahs or St. David's there is another church, and that
parish and St. Thomas' adjoining might well pay 100L per
annum. All the other parishes on the north side and St. Eliza-
beth's on the south, are great and ill settled, without churches,
being mostly planted in Sir Thos. Lynch's time, who ordered glebe
lands to be reserved in two or three places in every parish, which
in time may prove convenient. He likewise, observing how pre-
judicial and dishonourable it was for the ministers to be at the
will of the vestries, prevailed with the Assembly to make a law
that every parish should pay their parson 100?. per annum at
least. If two good, grave, and learned men were sent over they
would do God and that island great service, but they may not
expect above 1002. per annum there, BO that without some
238
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
May 27.
Whitehall.
May 31.
May
June 8.
Whitehall.
June 9.
Exeter House.
Shaftcsbury
Papers.
encouragement here such will not go ; but if the King would affix
to that island two considerable prebendaries, as of Eton, West-
minster, Lincoln, &c., such persons by the Bishop of London's
directions might have a superintendence of Church affairs, keep
people in their duty, convert sectaries, and suppress atheism and
irreligion, which people there much incline to. Endorsed, "Sir
Thomas Lynch, his acct. about the Church in Jamaica, May 1675."
2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 83.]
572. The King to Lord Vaughan, Governor of Jamaica. Whereas
Thomas Martyn has been obliged to attend here the prosecution of
justice for losses sustained from the French, on which account he
was sent by his Majesty into France, but is now repairing to the
execution of his charge, as receiver in Jamaica, it is the King's
pleasure that no trouble or molestation be given him in relation to
said office by reason of his absence since the granting of the said
Letters Patents [see previous volume of Calendar, No. 1260], but
that all just favour be shown him in the execution of same, yet so
as the Governor calls him once a year to give account of all receipts
as is usual with offices. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 31, No. 31.]
573. Mem. of petition of the creditors of Edward Billing,
purchasers of a part of New Jersey, to be defended from all visits
and troubles arising by Sir George Carteret who claims part of it ;
with reference by the Duke of York to the Committee for
managing his revenue. [Col. Entry Bk., No. 70, p. 18.]
574. The King to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes.
Thomas Lewis bound for Jamaica but touching at Barbadoes, had
some difference with William Acton by whose importunity and
provocations Lewis was drawn to determine the difference by duel
wherein he had the misfortune to kill Acton, the king has thought
fit to grant his pardon to Lewis, which is now going forward to the
great seal with all diligence and will be sent over by his father as
soon as it is past. Countersigned by Sec. Coventry (see ante,
No. 553). 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p. 67.]
575. Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Jonathan Atkins,
Governor of Barbadoes. This is principally to cover enclosed
collections of occurreuts. Has had one letter from him since his
arrival, for which he returns humble thanks, begging him to let
him know whatever passes in those parts, which is of infinite use,
besides the curiosity a man may have in it for his own satisfaction.
p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XCIIL, fol. 137.]
576. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very affectionate friend Andrew
Percivall at St. Giles' Plantation on Ashley river. Jacob Waite
and two or three other families called Quakers come in his Lord-
ship's dogger, harbingers of a great number that intend to follow.
'Tis their purpose to take a whole colony for themselves and their
friends, and they have promised to build a town of 30 houses.
Has directed the Government and Council to set them out the
12,000 acres, and would have him be very kind to them, and give
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
239
Shaftesbury
Papers.
1675.
them all the assistance he can on the choice of a place or anything
that will conduce to their convenient settlement, for they are
people his Lordship has a great regard to. [Shaftesbury Papers,
Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55, p. 151.]
June 9. 577. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very affectionate friends the
Exeter Home. Governor and Council in Carolina. The bearer, Jacob Waite, with
some others of his persuasion come to settle in his neighbourhood,
are people his Lordship has had transactions with here, and is
concerned to have a particular care of. Recommends them to the
Governor and Council, and at their arrival to accommodate them
with all the place affords and give them such usage as may
encourage them to invite over the rest of their friends who intend
to follow in a considerable number. To set them out a whole
colony of 12,000 acres, and as they intend within five years to
build a town of 30 houses with 100 inhabitants at least, to each of
which houses must belong as a town lot seventy acres inseparable
for ever. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55,
p. 152.]
June 9. 578. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very sincere friend Maurice
Exeter House. Matthews. Takes very kindly the service he has done his Lord-
ship in his particular affairs in Carolina, and will on all occasions
show how sensible he is of it, for by sticking to his Lordship's
interest there he has fastened himself to a man who never casts
off or neglects anyone that does so. Hopes as his Lordship's
design to settle at Edistoe has been disappointed he may be service-
able and helping in the Plantation in his neighbourhood. Is so
well assured of his honesty, ability, and particular affection that
his Lordship is sure he will afford Mr. Percivall all the assistance
he desires. His Lordship's settlement on Ashley river pleases him
the better that it hath at hand an old planter his Lordship's friend
and trustee. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55,
p. 153.]
June 9. 579. Order of the King in Council. On petition of the
Whitehall, merchants and freighters of the ship Virgin, Edmond Cooke,
Commander, setting forth that the ship was taken by the Spaniards
in the West Indies, and that the loss thereby amounted to 1 2,000. ;
that by order of this Board of 3rd July 1674 his Majesty's Am-
bassador was to solicit the Queen of Spain for satisfaction, which,
if not obtained in 4 months then his Majesty would grant letters
of reprisal, and that Edmond Cooke who went into Spain about
this business has now attended at Madrid near 9 mouths without
obtaining satisfaction; and therefore praying that he may be
commanded home that petitioners may reap the benefit of said
order of 3rd July. Ordered, that Edmond Cooke be called home
to give account of the success of his solicitations ; and that
Mr. Sec. Coventry signify his Majesty's pleasure herein, as well to
Edmond Cooke as to his Ambassador, that his Excellency may
intimate the same to the ministers of that Court. 1 p. [Col t
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 84.]
Shaftesbury
Papers.
240 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
June 9. 580. Gov. W. Stapleton to (the Council for Plantations.) Hopes
Nevis. they have full satisfaction by the annexed papers in what they
required in their commands of 27th Oct. 1674, with an addition
of Acts and maps. His brother who presents them, and who in the
writers' absence had command of Montserrat, goes home for
recovery of his health, and can give some account of that island
and its wants ; he was there when Evertson and Binkes attacked
it in the late war. Begs their remembrance of his former letters
relating to the Government and to himself. Annexed,
580. l. List of papers above mentioned, viz., Narrative of
St. Christophers' and Nevis by John Hilton, old planter.
Narrative of St. Christophers by ancient inhabitants,
with the articles betwixt the English and French at
the taking or rather surprising of it contrary to old
articles.
Maps of Nevis and Montserrat.
Acts of Nevis.
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 85.]
June 10. 581. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very affectionate friends the
Exeter House. Governor and Council at Charles Town. They cannot be ignorant
of the particular care his Lordship has taken of them and their
settlement ever since they first sat down upon Ashley river, and
how the rest of the Lord's Proprietors have been persuaded by
the hopes he had that their expenses would not be endless. Last
year when their expectations of returns grew weary, having
received neither any beginning of payment nor any proposal how
they might in time be reimbursed, his Lordship got them to
consent to a new method of supplying them, and to enter into
Shaftesbury articles for a constant and regular supply, some part of which they
apcrs. j.j ien rece | ve( 3 jt was expected that they would have considered
of some way of making returns, instead of which no scheme of
payment has been proposed, and the Governor and the Agent have
not so much as paid themselves out of it, but all has tended to
an enlargement of their demands and the Lords Proprietors'
expenses. The rest of the Lords Proprietors were at a stand and
grew very backward to bury any more money amongst people who
took so, little care to satisfy them that they intended never to live
of themselves. This dissatisfaction and the little leisure his Lord-
ship has had since he came to town to debate the matter with their
Lordships has made his ship return without any cargo on the Lords
Proprietors' account. Hopes Sir Peter Colleton will soon be
here, and he and his Lordship may be able to persuade the Lords
Proprietors to send a further supply. If they will be so much
friends to themselves as to lay down any rational way that will
satisfy the Lords Proprietors that they mean to pay for the things
sent to them, and not any longer to give cause to apprehend
that for 90,OOOZ. or 100,000^. the Lords Proprietors have purchased
nothing but the charge of maintaining 500 or 600 people who
expect to live upon their Lordships. Makes this fair proposal to
them that if they and the people will undertake to pay what is
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 241
1675,
owing from the Lords Proprietors to Col. West, and clear those
debts contracted by themselves and charged upon their Lordships
in Carolina and elsewhere, his Lordship doubts not but to prevail
with the rest of the Lords Proprietors to forgive them all their
debts to them, and as part satisfaction to Col. West to throw in
their Lordships private plantation too that he hath hitherto
managed and so put an end to the bargain made with him as the
Lords Proprietors storekeeper and agent. Expect that the Go-
vernor will not be any charge to the Lords Proprietors. Will then
take care nobody shall want supplies for the future who will
pay for them at moderate rates. Thus they will see the Lords
Proprietors expect no other improvement of the great sum
they have " been out," but that the Planters there should
wholly share the benefit of it amongst themselves, so the Lords
Proprietors may at the rate of 9,00 Ql. or 10,000. put an end
to their expenses. Takes very ill their treatment of his Lordship's
agent, Andrew Percival. They know his Lordship's plantation
at Edistoh was not to be under their government nor to be
controlled by them in trade with the Indians, for they cannot think
his Lordship so mad as to venture so considerable an estate under
their government unless the Governors were richer, for it is as bad
as a state of war for men that are in want to have the making of
laws over men that have estates, therefore he must desire them to
let his Lordship and his people alone. Has given Percival orders
in all things to show all fair kindness and respect to them but to
observe none of their commands, for his Lordship is resolved to be
independent of their government for some years until they are
become capable of putting our excellent model in some measure in
practice by having more men of estates come amongst them.
Beseeches them not to discourage or disoblige the best friend they
have in the world which his lordship is sure he is. [Shaftesbury
Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55, pp. 154, 155.]
June 10. 582. Commission from Anthony, Earl of Shaftesbury, to Andrew
Percival, gent. Appointing him Register of Berkeley County and
the parts adjoining (Carolina) during pleasure, until by the increase
of people the parts adjoining shall be divided into other counties,
and need a distinct registry to be erected in them. [Col. Entry Bk. t
Vol. XX., p. 103.]
June 10. 583. Minutes of Council of Antigua. Ordered, that two clauses
in the Act for extending lands and goods for debts and fines be
amended, according to the terms herein stated. (See under date
23 August 1670.) p. [Col Papers, Vol. 25, No. 55*.]
June 11. 584. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very affectionate friends the
Exeter House. Governor and Council at Ashley River, Carolina. The bearer, Seth
Sothell, a person of considerable estate in England, has intention
Shaftesbury to plant in Carolina, and take up a manor of 12,000 acres, which
Papers. he doubtg not to p i ant in a g } 101 . fc t j rae W j' t i 1 people he will carry
over from hence. Thinks he need not use many words to persuade
them to use him kindly for their own interest, as well as civility
will dispose them to it, since nothing can. be more advantageous to
T 78843, 3
24,2 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
the country, nor so much contribute to the growth and prosperity
of the plantation as that men of estates should settle amongst
them. They are therefore to set him out a manor of 12,000 acres,
on condition that within 5 years he build a town in it of at least
30 houses, and have at least six score people upon it, said houses to
be built and people to be brought one-fifth part every year. Pray
treat this gentleman as my friend. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX.,
Bundle 48, No. 55, p. 156.]
June 11, 585. Order of the King in Council referring to the Committee
for Plantations the enclosed,
585. i. Petition of William Harris to the King. Complains of
the forcible entrance of John Harrud on his lands at
Patuxet, and the danger he and his partners are in of
being deprived of their right by Providence and Warwick,
New Plymouth and two parties belonging to Mas-
sachusetts. Prays that the Governors of the four colonies
may be ordered to take care that speedy justice be done
by hearing the cause themselves, or appointing able men
with an upright jury to hear it. [Col. Entry Bits., Vol.
LX., pp. 38-41, and Vol. 96, p. 9.]
586. Petition of William Harris to the King. Has been a
weary traveller for the space of almost forty years in the wilder-
ness of New England ; was one of the first Englishmen that pur-
chased land of the most superior Indians in the Narragansett Bay,
which is now part of the King's colony of Rhode Island. Enjoyed
the possession of this land, called Patuxet, for a long time, until
persons from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Plymouth,
under pretence of other purchases from Indians, entered on it.
Has had against them suits in which the lands have been adjudgul
to him, but they continue to hold the land by force, some of them
enter and void where the King's writ of Rhode Island, runs not.
Prays that power be granted to some known just men in New
England to hear and determine these differences by special assize.
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 86.]
587. Petition of William Harris to the King. Describes the
seizure of his lands, and how some years after the arbitration which
had adjudged the lands to him some of his partners subjected
themselves to the Massachusetts jurisdiction and demanded the
land, the evidence that had been committed to them having been
cut out and pieced together on another paper. Went to Boston,
and there, through the plain honest dealing of the governor,
Mr. Dudley, the demandant acknowledged petitioner's right. The
demandants again laid claim to the said land by arbitration, and
arbitrators from Rhode Island and Massachusetts awarded it to
petitioner. Then the inhabitants of Warwick laid claim to part
of his land, taking in his own house and his partners' lands by
virtue of a pretended purchase from the Indians, and, refusing
arbitration, made forcible entries thereon and resisted the constable
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
243
1675,
and aid sent by the justices of the peace. One of the entereis,
John Harrud, of Warwick, gave bond to answer the next Court,
and the petitioner seeing delay sailed for England intending to
supplicate the King, but found the Commissioners were going to
New England. Notwithstanding various petitions, judgments,
trials, and by reason of the partners' kindred, abettors, and
adherents, petitioner has been kept out of his land for twelve years.
Owing to the numerous parties of enterers he cannot begin suits
against all or get execution of his verdict, and sees no likelihood of
a competent jury to try the differences, and, because the King's
writ of Rhode Island does not run into the other colonies, is unable
of remedy except by the King's special commission. Prays that,
without detriment to the former commission, a second be appointed.
4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 87.]
588. Statement of Harris's case. A, demandant, with his
partners, purchases lands in New England of the most superior
Indians. B, tenant by force, and his partners purchase some of
the demandant's land of inferior Indians and enter by force. A
complains of B's force and obtains judgment. B resists execution
and keeps possession by force, and gets others who enter by force.
A, seeing so many parties entered and one by abettors able to hold
by force, concludes there must be a new remedy or none ; petitions
the King for power to be given to some persons in New England to
hear and determine by a special assize. B may say that the King's
power is in New England already, and not to be displaced by a
complaint. A supposes the King grants power in England to
some where his commission is before to hear and determine by
special assize, so there is no detriment to the former commission j
prays a resolution. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 88.]
589. A similar statement, though much more in detail. 9 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 89.]
June 14. 590. Earl of Shaftesbury to his very affectionate friends the
Exeter House. Governor and Council at Ashley river, Carolina. The bearer, John
Smith, brings his wife and family and a considerable estate with
intention to plant amongst them. How much the settlement of
such men in Carolina will add to the reputation and trade of the
country and benefit those already there. To be very civil and
encourage him and others like him to be their neighbours, but
besides must recommend him as his Lordship's particular friend,
Believes he intends to take up a manor which they are desired to
set out in some commodious place to any number of acres as pre-
scribed in our fundamental constitutions, provided he people at the
rate of 10 men for every 1,000 acres within five years, and bring
over one-fifth of the number every year till the full number be
completed. If they do what becomes them in these points doubts
not but to see very speedily a very populous and thriving country.
[Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55, p. 157.]
June 16. 591. Order of the King in Council. Referring petition of
Robert Mann and others, touching the composition trade, to the
Shaftesbury
Papers.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Committee appointed for trade, who are also to hear what the
Commissioners of Customs can say thereon, and then report to
the King in Council what they think fit to be done. [Col. Entry
Bk., No. 96, p. 9.]
June 17. 592. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. His
Majesty, having dissolved the late Council for Trade and Plantations
and committed what was under their management to a Committee
of the Privy Council, a petition was read of Captain Ferdinando
Gorges, agent for Col. Stapleton, Governor of St. Christopher's,
presenting for his Majesty's consideration, that his Majesty has
allowed to said Col. Stapleton 700?. per annum as Governor, and
established two companies of foot in St. Christopher's, win se pay
should be 2,778?. 10s. Sd. per annum, none of which has been paid
since June 1671, whereby the soldiers are reduced to great neces-
sities ; and that the French King, having seldom less than six ships
of war, has lately sent 10 companies of old soldiers into those parts,
who are well clothed and duly paid, to the great grief of his
Majesty's poor soldiers and planters, the consequences whereof, if
not timely prevented, may be injurious to his Majesty's service
and interest there. 2 pp. [Col Entry Bk., No. XLVI., 1, 2.]
June 17. 593. Minutes of the Committee of Council for Trade and
Plantations. Three letters read from Col. Stapleton to the Council
of Plantations, dated from Nevis the 8th February, 17th March,
and 30th April 1675 [see ante, Nos. 428, 469 and 544]. Mem. That
the inscription of the seal to be made for the Leeward Islands be, on
the one side, " Carolus secundus Dei Gratia Magnae Britanise Franciae
Hiberniie, &c., Bex," and on the other side, " Sigilum Insularum
Sancti Christophori, Montserrat, Antegoa, Nevis, &c." [Col. Entry
Bk., No. XLVL, 6-10.]
June 17. 594. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Petition of Capt. Ferdinando Gorges, agent for Col. Staj leton,
Governor of the Leeward Isles, read ; the captain called in, s also
Lieut. Greatbach, lately sent over from the Governor, and several
of the Governor's letters read as to the condition of the two
companies found by Privy Seals that the complement was to be
80 men in each, and the establishment 2,788?. 10s. 8c?., to commence
the 24th June 1 672, and that Col. Stapleton was to have 700?. per
annum from the same time. Complaint made that neither he nor
the soldiers have been paid one farthing. Ordered that Sir R.
Southwell find out the establishment and compute what is due,
that their Lordships may report the necessity of a supply and the
settling of a fund for the future, without which they do not think
that place in safety ; after which they would move for recruits to
be sent over to complete the companies. Ordered, that Col. St:pleton
be furnished with a seal for the more authority of his proceedings,
their Lordships esteeming his service of very good importance.
The muster rolls but of two years brought over by Lieut. Greatbach.
The report of the 9th June from the Council of Plantations read
neon the Colonel's complaint of ill-dealing from M, de Baas, the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 245
1675.
French Governor, also a memorial lately presented by Sir Wm.
Lockhart in France, and other papers relating to the hardships
imposed on his Majesty's subjects for want of being restored to
their possessions. Resolved to-morrow^to inspect Sir Chas. Wheler's
adjustment with M. de Baas, which appears to give great obstruc-
tion to the relief of the Planters, and how far by his commission
he was empowered to such agreement, and how far the same
conforms with the Articles of Breda. The want of compliance
from the French the more to be wondered at because said report
seems to give up many advantages to them. Ordered, that Sir R.
Southwell enquire of Mr. Slingsby for a draft of a report much
more suitable to the right of the Planters, which Capt. Gorges
insinuated was prepared, but seemed too harsh for our intimate
friendship with France. Mem. Three letters read from Col.
Stapleton to the Committee of 8th Februaiy, 17th March, and 30th
April last. 2 pp.- [Col. Entry Sk., Xo. CIV., 25, 26.]
June 17. 595. Report of Sir Robt. Southwell, Secretary, to the Committee
of Council for Plantations, &c. Has in obedience to their Lord-
ships commands enquired after the establishment which Sir Chas.
Wheler carried over to St. Christopher's, but as yet cannot recover
it ; meantime it appears by two Privy Seals that Col. Stapleton's
allowance was to commence on the 24th June 1G72, which at the
rate of 700?. per annum amounts to 2,100Z. still due, and that the
pay for two companies of 80 men in each commences the same day,
and the Lieutenant having brought over muster rolls to the 24th
June 1674, the pay due in that time amounts to 4.550Z. 6s. 8d. ;
and it appears that Col. Stapleton has reckoned but for the men
he has really mustered, for that sum would have been 1,0052. more
for the full complement of 80 men ; he has also made 14 musters,
and the numbers vary as they diminished. Capt. Gorges has gone
over the rolls and thinks he has computed right, but they are
referred to Mr. Commissary Baines to examine and report. Has
had the affirmation of the Lieutenant that the rates of pay per
diem were as follows : For a captain, 8s., a lieutenant, 4s., an
ensign, 3s., sergeant, 18d, drummer and corporal, 12d, and soldier,
8d. ; and it is according to these rates that the two years' pay
comes to 4,5 5 01. 6s. 8d. In margin, " Report from Sir Robt.
" Southwell concerning the establishment of two companies in
" St. Christopher's." 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 90.]
June 18. 596. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Resolved, to report that there was due to Col. Stapleton for salary
on the 24th instant 2,1 OQL, and that the pay for two companies to
the 24th June 1674 came to 4,550. 6s. 8d. by the muster rolls,
which for more exact computation were to be sent to Commissary
Baines, and had not the men decreased it would have amounted to
1,005Z. more ; to represent Col. Stapleton in a very good character
to his Majesty for the 14 musters made in two years, and other
reasons ; and to report the necessity of dispatching a seal for that
island, and to press his Majesty to order speedy payment of all
said arrears and that a fund be settled for the future to supply
240 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
these forces, reckoning that the defence of the place depends
thereon, and that it will be necessary to hasten over recruits.
Consideration of the ill-usage of the English Planters by the French,
and several particular grievances and reports entered in the books
of the late Council of Plantations read, and a full account given
by Mr. Slingsby of the demands made by Sir William Lockhart in
France, with a list of papers delivered to him, who could obtain
no answer from the French Minister, but that they were busy
preparing for the campaign, and would on their return speak more
of the matter. Several papers mentioned in the said list read, as
a narrative of the business of St. Christopher's, a report prepared
by Mr. Slingsby but not agreed to as too warm for the friendship
they were then in, and Lord Willoughby's narrative of the business
of St. Christopher's. Ordered, that all said papers be put together,
to extract a narrative and make report to his Majesty of the
injustice of the French, and how earnest his Majesty ought to be
for the reparation of the Planters ; and that Sir R. Southwell attend
Lord Arlington to know what advances had been made with
Mr. Colbert in this affair, and whether any demands were presented
to him, which could preclude his Majesty from insisting on more ;
which seemed not to be by the subsequent instructions given to
Sir Wm. Lockhart. The Lords observe that whatever the English
were obliged to, in the surrender of Nova Scotia and Acadia, they
punctually complied with. 4 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. CIV.,
25-28.]
June 18. 597. Minutes of the Committee for Plantations. Having ex-
Whitehali. amined the state of particulars concerning the two companies of
foot at St. Christopher's, their Lordships agree to report to his
Majesty, which, with the Order in Council thereon, is as follows :
That having perused several letters from Col. Stapleton, Governor
of the Leeward Islands, and examined several things which relate
very much to his Majesty's service and the security of those islands,
and the relief of many of his Majesty's subjects there who have
suffered hardships from the French, their Lordships have at present
to lay before his Majesty the very bad condition of the two
companies of foot on St. Christopher's, which are wasted from their
complement of 80 men in each to 49 and 54, and have not received
any pay for three years, so that they are naked, and have only
subsisted by the charity of the Planters, and the care of their
Colonel, who is equally destitute of any supply for three years ; and
when they observe that the French forces there are well clothed
and punctually paid, their Lordships think his Majesty's honour and
the security of the place concerned in a present and effectual redress.
In order to which they find, that by an establishment made at Sir
Chas. Wheler's going over, the pay of those two companies
amounted to 2,778. 10s. 8d., and Col. Strode received that sum by
his order from his Majesty's exchequer, and the companies were paid
from the 7th July 1671 to 7th July 1672, out of the sequestration
and sale of Sir Chas. "Wheler's estate, but whether in full is not
before them ; that on the 23rd September 1671, a Privy Seal was
passed for a like sum to be paid to Col. Stapleton, but they do not
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 247
1675.
observe any continuance of the payment; that having referred
several muster rolls, sent over express by a Lieutenant, to Com-
missary Baines, they find that the pay from 7th July 1672 to 7th
July 1674 amounts to 4,556?. 14s. Oc?., which is about 1,000?. short
of the establishment for that time, because the companies have
diminished; that by another Privy Seal the allowance of Col.
Stapleton (who in all things appears to be a man of good conduct,
valour and integrity, and very deserving his Majesty's favour and
encouragement) was 700?. a year, and that on the 24th inst., there
will be due to him 2,100?. ; and their Lordships think it of absolute
necessity, that not only said sums amounting to 6,65 6?. 14s. Qd. be
immediately paid to the agent, Capt. Gorges, but that a fund be
settled for a constant supply in the future ; also that recruits be
sent over to complete said companies. And their Lordships further
offer that a Seal for the said island be sent over, seeing the former
one is said to be lost. His Majesty having approved said report,
ordered that the Lord Treasurer take effectual care for a speedy
discharge of the present debt, and settle a way for the subsistence
of the said Governor and companies for the future, according to the
establishment ; which when settled, his Majesty will cause recruits
to be sent over to fill up said companies according to said establish-
ment of 80 men in each company. 3J pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 91 ; also Col Entry Bk., No. XLVL, 3-6.]
June 18. 598. Report of Commissary J. Baynes to the Committee of
Council for Plantations, concerning the pay due for two years to the
officers and soldiers of Col. Stapleton's and Capt. Abednego
Matthews 's Companies of foot in St. Christopher's. In obedience to
their Lordship's commands, signified by Sir Robt. Southwell, he has
examined the muster rolls of said Companies from 7th July 1672
to 7th July 1674, and finds the pay, details of which are given, of
the Colonel's Company amounts to 2,232& 17s. 4<l., the Captain's
Company to 2,323?. 16s. Sd., or 4,556?. 14s. Od, in all. 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 92.]
June 19. 599. Warrant to the Attorney General. To prepare a Bill for the
Whitehall. King's signature to pass the Great Seal containing a grant to Thomas
Lord Culpeper of the office of Governor of Virginia during life
immediately after the death, surrender, or forfeiture of Sir William
Berkeley the present Governor with the salary of 1,000?. per annum
paid quarterly out of the monies raised there for support of the
Government. 1 pp. [Col. Entry Bk, Vol. 110, pp. 68, 69.]
June 19. 600. Ro. Howard to (Sir R. Southwell, Secretary to the Council
for Plantations). Sends inclosed copy of an Establishment affixed
to Sir Chas. Wheler's Privy Seal, there is no commencement in the
original or Privy Seal. Encloses,
600. i. An establishment of the pay of the two companies of
foot consisting of 80 soldiers each, besides a Captain,
Lieutenant, Ensign, two sergeants, three corporals, and two
drummers, amounting per annum to 2,778?. 10s. 8d.
Together, 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, Nos, 93, 94.]
243 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
June 23. 601. Sec. Coventry to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Gov. of Barbadoea.
Whitehall. Jjas received his of the l7-27th February with account of receipt
of his Majesty's orders for returning some Indians to their native
country that had been brought away against their will, and of that
barbarous murder or rather massacre committed by Col. Philip
Warner and his confederates upon Thomas Warner and his company
with which his Majesty is highly offended, and commands that a
speedy and exemplary justice should be done upon the person guilty
of this inhuman act, and his Majesty's pleasure is that the Governor
effectually takes order that the offenders be proceeded against
according to law and give such an account as his justice may appear
to have been vindicated and the innocent blood that hath been so
barbarously spilt fully avenged. And since there is reason to
believe that the Windward Indians may have been much alienated
from the English by this action, his Majesty leaves it to the Governor
to give that people some signal and public demonstration of his
justice upon the authors by sending them some heads and by some
other proper way which he shall think fit that they may be satisfied
of the detestation his Majesty and the whole nation hath of this
proceeding of Col. Warner's, and how ready his Majesty will be to
punish severely any of his subjects that shall infringe the good
understanding he desires to have preserved between them and his
subjects. 2pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, pp. 70, 71.]
[June 23.] 602. Petition of Francis Moryson, Thomas Ludwell, and Robert
Smith, Agents from the Grand Assembly of the Governor, Council,
and Burgesses of Virginia, in behalf of themselves and all others the
Planters, Inhabitants, and Proprietors of your Majesty's Colony or
Plantation of Virginia and the Territory of Accomack, to the King.
Praying, for the reasons therein given, for a grant of Letters Patent
for the incorporation of said Colony with the privileges and
benefits particularly mentioned in a paper annexed containing the
heads thereof. Two copies, one of which is endorsed, " Rec d . and
read, Juue 23, 1673 [? mistake for 1675]." Annexed,
602. I. Heads which we are commanded by our Instructions to
present unto his Majesty and humbly to petition him
that by his gracious concession they may be drawn up
into a Charter for Virginia, having reference to the
purchase of lands contained in the Northern grant
between the rivers of Rappahannock and Patocomeck to
the Earl of St. Albans, &c. Signed by Francis Moryson,
Thos. Ludwell, and Robt. Smith. " Rec d . June 23. Read
June 23, 1675." I p. Three copies. Together , Jive papers.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 95-99.]
[June 23.] 603. Another copy of the above Petition with this prefatory
remark, " His Majesty having been pleased to dissolve and extinguish
" the late Council of Trade and Foreign Plantations, and to commit
*' what was under their inspection and management to a Committee
" of the Privy Council appointed for matters relating to Foreign
" trade and plantations, their Lordships, on 19 October 1675, take
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
249
1G75 .
" into their consideration the business of Virginia in reference to a
" Charter of Incorporation concerning which application had been
" lately made unto his Majesty by petition as followeth." [Col.
Entry Bk., No. LXXX., pp. 33-38.] Annexed,
603. I. Order in Council referring said Petition and the heads
annexed to the Attorney and Solicitor-General for their
report. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 100.]
G03. II. Copy of preceding with memorandum, " It is this day
" ordered by His Majesty in Council that the Right Hon.
" Henry, Earl of St. Albans, be added to the Committee of
" Plantations." [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. LXXX., p. 39 ; and
Vol. XCVL, p. U.]
[June 23.] 604. Reasons to be given to His Majesty's Ministers of State
whereby they may more fully understand the past and present state of
the Colony of Virginia and what our motives are and how pressing the
necessities which caused the Assembly of that Government to send
us their agents into England to pray that His Majesty would be
graciously pleased to remove the present pressures and grant them
such future security of their rights, properties, and privileges as
might keep them immediately and immovably dependent on the
Crown safe from the like invasions. " Received, June 23. Read,
June 23, 1675." Signed by Francis Moryson, Tho. Ludwell, and
Robt. Smith. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 101.]
June 23. 605. Another copy of the above, but without the signature of
Robt. Smith. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 102.]
[June 24.] 606. Petition of Thomas Delavall to the Duke of York. Was
prevailed upon by Col. Nicholls, his Royal Highness's Governor, to
quit his employment of Surveyor-General of his Majesty's Customs
in England under the then Farmers worth to him about 500Z. per
annum, and to go over to New York to audit his Royal Highness's
revenues with a salary of 200. per annum, of which he has not yet
received one penny. Continued in that employment ten years till
the capture of New York by the Dutch, lost an estate of about
6,OOOZ. ; was made a prisoner of war five months and carried into
Spain for no other reason than that he was found to be his
Koyal Highness's servant. By the loss sustained, want of salary
(2,000.) and the reimbursement of 1,400. (paid by him for the
relief of the soldiers out of his own estate) his credit as a merchant
greatly impaired and himself brought within the prospect of
Prays for an allowance of the 2,000. salary. With reference
by the Duke of York to his Committee of Revenue. 1 p. [Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. 70, p. 18 B.]
June. 607. The public account of the 2s. per hogshead import [upon
(Virginia.) tobacco] in Virginia. Endorsed " Rec d . from Mr. Secretary Coventry
on 19 July 1677." Passed in the Assembly, June 1676. Another
Certified Copy by Robert Beverley is dated April 23, 1677. 2 pp.
[Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 103 j see also Col. Entry Book, No. 80, pp
165-167.]
is
ruin.
250
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
June 24.
Whitehall.
June 25.
June 25.
Paramaribo,
Surinam.
608. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Report of Sir K. Southwell about St. Christopher's, viz., that he
had waited on the Lord Chamberlain for an account of what had
passed between him and M. Colbert, the French Ambassador, and
his Lordship said he presented M. Colbert with the Report of the
Council of Plantations of the 9th June 1673, but could never
receive any answer though he frequently and urgently pressed for
it, which made him give Sir Wm. Lockhart a very punctual
instruction (which he desired their Lordships to inspect) to be
watchful in this affair, from the vast ill-consequences that might
happen from neglect thereof. He agreed that that Report was
very moderate and probably far short of what ought to have been
demanded, but it was entirely calculated to the condition of things
in that time, which had been so disordered by what Sir Chas
Wheler had done that it was concluded his agreement had given
away all, so that what they were to ask of the French was but in
courtesy and only hoping for compliance out of their friendship ;
so that if it appear to their Lordships that what Sir Chas. Wheler
then did with M. de Baas was not conclusive, neither ought that
Report to limit his Majesty's demands, so that the issue of this
matter will depend wholly on the validity of Sir Chas. Wheler's
agreement. Ordered, that Sir R. Southwell inquire of Sir Chas.
Wheler if anything he did at St. Christopher's precludes his
Majesty from insisting on the points urged in the last memorial
prepared by Mr. Slingsby, since the memorial of June 1673 seems
not to challenge the whole benefit afforded by the Articles of Breda.
The Lords do not think his Majesty precluded by anything so done,
since by his proclamation he disavows all, but only to know if the
French are enabled by any justice or advantage in those pro-
ceedings to say we are precluded. And to know why Sir Chas.
would admit in the Instrument signed to him by M. de Baas
an additional clause to what he himself signed. Ordered, that
inquiry be made at Sec. Williamson's Office for the Instructions
given to Sir W. Lockhart in this matter, and to know if M. Colbert
ever gave in any answer in the business. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. CIV., 29-30.]
609. Minutes of the Council for Trade and Plantations. Their
Lordships having proceeded to consider the hardships of the
English Planters at St. Kitts, and the great complaints of their
ill-usage by the French, order Sir Robt. Southwell to attend
Lord Arlington to know what advances had been made with
Mons. Colbert, the French Ambassador, in this affair, whereupon
Sir Robert Southwell made report to the Council. 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. XLVI., 11, 12.]
610. Edw. Cranfield, Ri. Dickenson, and Marcus Brandt, to
Sir Robt. Southwell. On 29th May they made Cape Orange a
little to the east of Cyan, and 3rd June anchored at the river's
mouth ; on the 4th, Messrs. Cranfield and Brandt went ashore to
deliver all the letters to the Governor, who received them civilly,
published the orders from the States General, both in English and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
251
lf>75.
Dutch, the next day, and granted them liberty to go and confer
with any of his Majesty's subjects ; whereupon they separated and
communicated their errand to the Planters, which they accomplished
by the 9th instant, when the Hunter and hired ships arrived at
Paramaribo. On the 10th they all met at the Governor's to agree
a time and place of meeting to settle all things, viz., the 30th
June/ 10th July, at Paramaribo. Cannot till that Court be over
send a particular list of the Planters and slaves that go off, but
guess about 200 whites and 800 slaves, all of whom (except two
or three) are resolved to go directly for Jamaica, and unwilling to
touch at any other place, which they were obliged to promise,
else they had not carried off five families, those remaining will
be very inconsiderable. So soon as all things shall be settled will
send a more particular account by Capt. Dickenson, who has
orders to sail within a fortnight. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 104.]
June 25. 611. Copy of preceding, addressed to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson.
Paramaribo. Endorsed, " R. 29 Aug." 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 105 ;
see also Col. Entry Bh, No. LXXVIII., 95-97.]
June.
Whitehall.
June.
Whitehall.
June 29
July 6.
Boston.
612. The King to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes.
His Majesty has thought fit for the encouragement and increase of
the fishing trade at Newfoundland to require the Commander of
the Convoy frigate to warn his subjects dwelling in Newfound-
land to remove from thence, and either to return into this kingdom
or betake themselves to any other of his Majesty's plantations.
Governor Atkins is hereby ordered, in case any of his Majesty's
subjects shall upon such warning leave Newfoundland and trans-
port themselves to Barbadoes, to settle with their families and
estates, to receive them with favour, and afford them all con-
venient assistance. Draft. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol 34,
No. 106.]
613. Copy of preceding. Endorsed, " Draft of a letter to the
respective Govrs. of the Plantations about the Newfoundlandmen."
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 107.]
614. Benjamin Batten to Sir Thomas Allin, at the Navy Office
per Mr. Hull. Account of the Indian insurrection, fearing he
might have had a misreport. June 21st, Heard from Plymouth,
50 miles distant, that Philip, the Indian sagamore of those parts, had
retired with 600 armed men to a place difficult of access, because of
a thick swamp and rocks, a promontory called by the English
Mounthope, in sight of Rhode Island and 40 miles distant from
Boston ; the reason not known, but he hath always been of a
subtle mutinous temper, and about three years since was ready to
engage with them of Plymouth for pretended trespasses on his
lands, but the quarrel was mediated by Boston, he making them
satisfaction for their trouble ; about five months since some of his
Indians murdering an Indian who had been fciithful and serviceable
to the English, Philip being deemed accessory was tried for his
252 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
life, being subject to their law ; on the trial two Indians were
executed and Philip cleared, by which (they being his chief men)
probably he was enraged ; other reasons they do not know. 22nd,
Heard that they of Plymouth had fitted out 150 raen-in- arms to
go against him. 23rd, They of Plymouth send for aid, whereupon a
council was called the next day, and three plenipotentiaries with
three attendants sent to Philip to compose differences if possible,
and another to the adjacent sachems to forewarn them from joining
with him, which, it was understood, they were too prone to do.
24th, Heard that the Indians had killed an Englishman, and rifled
several farms and farmhouses of cattle and goods. 25th, Heard
of further damages to the English in body and goods, that the
Indians increased and had offered to join battle, but the English
dared not venture till more help came from Boston. 26th, Sent in
the morning about 100 horse under Captain Prentice, and 100 foot
under Captain Hinchman, with four field pieces ; the plenipoten-
tiaries returned without effecting anything, as Philip would not
speak with them ; they had met in their journey with the bodies
of some English without heads, for that is their barbarous way of
triumph ; upon which they beat up for volunteers, and had about
120 by that night, mostly Jamaica privateers, under Captain Samuel
Morley ; it was forbidden, under a penalty of 10?., for an English-
man to entertain an Indian in the town, and on sight to apprehend
him; that night there was a great eclipse of the moon. 27th,
Sunday, In the afternoon two posts brought news that 16 English
were killed in skirmishing, and 7 Indians, that the English had
sent 30 horse to Swansea, a town near, with a cart for provisions,
of which only one single horse returned wounded, that died im-
mediately ; this put them upon raising a greater force ; they were
also advised that 14 houses near Swansea were burnt. They hear
and have reason to suspect that this is a general insurrection
intended among the Indians, who may be much more in number
than the English, but have neither policy nor conduct, nor pro-
vided with arms and provisions for any long time, so that they
hope soon to hear of their final defeat, which might be found
strange in another, that they look upon them as an inconsiderate
people ; otherwise they might send far greater force, though what
has been done will put the country to great charge, all sorts of
grain being near doubled in price since last year, what with a bad
year, and their supplying Virginia in their necessity, and this year
not promising much if husbandry be neglected will make great
scarcity. 28th, Post informed them that the 30 troopers were still
wanting, and that the Indians had burnt 20 houses, but would
lessen the former account of English that were killed, and that
there were 300 of the English of Plymouth and Rhode Island
beside their forces which had just got up to them. Sent a
brigantine and barque to intercept the Indians by water, and a
troop of horse under Captain Page, and the new made General
Saveridge went Commander-in- Chief. 29th, A day of fasting and
humiliation, had no post. 30th, Had a post, informing them that
their forces had engaged the Indians on the 28th in the morning,
that they had beaten them back, and had taken some of their pro-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1675.
visions, and had lost only one man, but had several dangerously
wounded, and know not certainly of any Indians killed ; provisions
prohibited to be sent out of the colony ; hear that they of Rhode
Island had nearly sent 100 quakers, men well appointed with
carnal weapons, to fight against the infidels, most of them on
Rhode Island being such, that the 30 troopers had returned; a
countryman coming to town had his horse shot under him on this
side Blackstones river, but mounted a spare horse that he led, but
never saw him that did it, which way of their skulking gives them
an advantage. July 1st, Heard from Plymouth, where Governor
Winslow keeps with a small guard of English and Indians, but
little news, save the execution of an Indian spy, whose head was
placed at the Governor's door. No news from Mounthope, which
is about 54 miles from them, and the neck of land is 14 miles
long and 5 or 6 broad, the farthest part of the neck reaching within
a mile or two of Rhode Island ; do not know the number or the
fortification of the Indians, have sent some hand grenades, but
great guns and dogs will do the best service, both which being a
terror to them. 2nd, No post, fear it is cut off on the road. 3rd,
Post arrived from Mounthope with news that the English got to
the farthest point but found no fort, found parcels of 10 Indians
together, suppose Philip is gone off, lost only one more, and
several wounded, took 6 English heads and hands. Proclaimed it
death for any English to sell arms or ammunition to Indians ; sent
a party of horse to demand the arms of another bordering sachem,
who is suspected, called Ninicraft, which if he refuses the army is
to fall upon him. The land already gained is worth 10,000^., on
the point aforesaid. Finishes the account in a letter dated Cth
July 1675. July 4th, Sunday, Had a post from Mounthope,
giving an account of one of their men killed, and 3 or 4 wounded,
but little damage done to the enemy ; a horse was taken, supposed
to be Philip's, who they think is gone off the neck ; their fears
increase that other Indians are concerned ; saw an account of 5
English killed in and near Taunton. 5th, No post, and nothing
but flying reports. 6th, News that their men had searched Mount-
hope, but cannot find the Indians, and fear they are dispersed,
which will much annoy the out plantations. Had 61 Indians of
those that are privileged and taught the scripture, who came to
town with arms and an English trader, leaving their wives and
children as pledges for their fidelity, and marched that night
towards the camp, being promised an Indian matchcoat for every
head, and two for every live Indian ; a small party of horse
went to Plymouth for the Governor's better guard. Endorsed,
"The rising of the Indians." 5 pp., with seal. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34, No. 108.]
July 1. 615. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations,
Whitehall. St. Christopher's. Report of Sir R. Southwell that, having asked
Sir Chas. Wheler whether anything he did with M. de Baas
obstructs his Majesty from demanding justice from the French
King for the Planters of St. Christopher's agreeable to the Articles
gf Breda, he answered that there is not any part of any Article
254 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
relating to St. Christopher's that he did not demand of M de Baas,
and can show his demand in writing, and M. de Baas answers that
he obtained many of those points, and for those he could not
obtain brought M. de Baas to sign an instrument referring them
back to the two Kings, which instrument Sir Charles can produce ;
and that he insisted on some things for the advantage of the
English which were omitted from the Articles of Breda. Ordered,
that Sir Charles read over the memorial approved by their Lordships,
and make such amendments as he conceives fit for preventing any
objections from France. 1 pp. [Col. Entry Books, No. CIV., 31 ;
and No. XLVL, 13.]
July 1. 616. Sir Jonathan Atkins to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson.
B*rbdoes. The trial over it is fit he should give some account of Lord
Sunderland's business. There were never better juries empannelled
than this sessions, and many witnesses were heard for the King,
who gave evidence that Bridges, the constable, presently after
9 o'clock, the fish market not ended and most of the shops open by
reason it was market day, called out his watch, and hearing some
gentlemen come singing along the street went hastily down the
street to meet them, and asked why they kept such a noise ; some
replied we keep no noise, but are going to our lodgings, and said
good night and parted ; but hearing them singing again, which he
took for an affront, and having a pique against Mr. May on, whom
he had said he would put in the cage, the constable, with his
watch, warned them, and with his staff struck 3 or 5 times
upon them, saying nothing to them, but calling on his watch to
seize Mayon ; he lighted on Mr. James Colleton, whose head he
broke in two places, and one swore he saw Colleton's blood on the
staff, and heard him say, " Flesh and blood is not able to endure
this," and he drew his sword and passed it into the body of the
constable, who cried out, " This is fine ; I am killed." The
evidence was that the others made no resistance, the truth might
easily be discerned, the streets were full of people, and it was a
bright moonshine night. On the whole the jury found them nob
guilty of murder, and, if Mr. Colleton had .stood his trial, it is
believed it would have been found he had done it in his own
defence. The country were well satisfied with the verdict, blaming
much the imprudence of the constable and his illegal executing his
office. Is informed that, to prevent all accident, they had pro-
cured the King's pardon, but has not yet seen it. Dictated this
with much pain, having for 10 days laboured under the torment
of an impostume in the thigh, in which he thinks there can be no
greater anguish. Had it lanced yesterday, and hopes it may
conduce to his future health, for so they repute it here. Endorsed,
"R., 17 Aug." 1 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 109.]
July 6-8. 617. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. An Act for Settle-
ment of the Militia passed without the clause for appointing rx
Muster Master, and again laid before his Excellency and Council.
July 7. Ordered, that the Treasurer pay out of the Excise on Liquors to
Mrs. Elizabeth Egginton 50. for rent of her houses for his
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 265
1675.
lency's use the last 6 months. Resolved, on debate of the pre-
sentments of the Grand Jury at the last General Sessions, to prepare
an Act to restrain the too frequent wanderings and meetings of
negroes, and punish crimes, insolencies, and outrages committed by
them. Ordered, that an Act be drawn to prevent the running away
of Christian servants, and their getting off by the negligence of such
as keep boats and other vessels.
July 8. Ordered, in regard to the present low value of sugar, that it be
referred to the Treasurer to deal as well as he can for the public
as to the rate at which to pay Col. John Stanfast the rent of
Fontabel plantation leased by his Excellency. An Act for reviving
the Commissioners of Public Accounts passed. Ordered, that the
Treasurer pay out of the Excise on Liquors 5,000 Ibs. of sugar to
Nicholas Gammage for his pains in contriving an advantageous
way of hanging coppers to the general good ; 5,000 Ibs. of sugar to
Thomas Rawlins, gunner of the forts and platforms at Austin's
Bay, for his salary for one year ; also 3,000 Ibs. to William Bragg,
gunner of the new battery ; 5,000 Ibs. to Thomas Larcombe, gunner
of Willoughby's Fort ; 10,000 Ibs. to John Higinbotham, Clerk of
the Assembly ; and 1,500 Ibs. to Joseph Mithers, the Assembly's
Marshall, all for salary. An Act to give encouragement to all
persons to take up runaway Christian servants, and requiring
security from such as keep boats, passed and ordered, together with
a supplemental Act to a former Act for the better governing of
negroes, to be transcribed against next sitting of the Assembly.
Adjourned to Wednesday 3 weeks. 4 pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. XIII., 184-188.]
July 7. 618. Sir Chas. Wheler to the Committee of Council for Trade
and Plantations. Has, in obedience to their commands, given
Sir R. Southwell the best information he can for preparing their
Lordship's paper for the King. Offers also some papers of his own
which passed between M. de Baas and himself containing his
demands under every article of the treaty, and the reasons, with
M. de Baas' reasons, for refusing them. Suppose they may be
useful, for when the King shall press the French King for re-
parations, it is likely his Ministers will send back the reasons
M. de Baas remitted, and his own replies, which were from eye
witnesses of the wrongs and injuries done. Has yet a further end,
viz., to represent the state of the English part of St. Christopher's,
because although the French King should fully satisfy His Majesty's
demands now made (which Sir Charles believes he will not), yet
his Majesty's part of St. Christopher's will be lost whenever the
French attempt to take it. Will therefore endeavour to propose
the means of making it capable to defend itself till it may be
relieved from his Majesty's other Windward islands. It is a great
mistake to hope that those 2,000 English who bore arms when
the French overcame them will return to their respective plan-
tations, because they are settled better elsewhere. The present
strength of the island is only a fort at Sandy Point and a fort at
the English Road, with 20 cannon mounted, and defended by the
two companies of foot, which should consist of 160 Englishmen,
266 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
but is informed are not effectively above 70. The militia, that is
planters and servants formed into one regiment, whereof abjut
half is on either side of the island, may consist of about GOO men,
whereof 150 may be French and Dutch who have purchased
English estates, and 150 Irish ; and by the French and Irish the
King is so much weaker, for in any war the French would revolt,
and the Irish betray the English as in the first war. The strength
of the French is their castle, a platform at Basseterre, on which
many cannon are mounted, and a little fort at Sandy Point,
defended also by two companies of foot ; their militia, formed into
two regiments, one in Basseterre and the other in Sandy Point
quarter, may consist of about 1,600 musketeers, and 200 of their
best planters on horseback, whereof several are of good families in
France. The French Governor of St. Christopher's is M. St.
Laurence, a Knight of Malta, and of great courage, and the
Lt.-Genl., M. de Baas, a man well experienced in the wars ; while
the King's Governor is Capt. Mathews, who never saw any action
in his life, and his Lt.-Genl., Col. Stapleton, as little ; yet
for all this odds his Majesty's part of St. Christopher's may
be reasonably secured and defended and the French utterly over-
thrown there (and in all other their islands except Martinico) in
case of war. Proposes that 2 companies of 100 in each be new
raised from Barbadoes, Antigua, and Nevis; that the forts at
Sandy Point and English Road be well repaired, and defended by
one of the companies ; that a house, to be defended by the other
company, be built for the Lieutenant-General on the windward side
of the island, and he obliged to live there ; that a yearly expense be
bestowed to keep the way passable through the mountains ; and
that some gentlemen be commissionated to muster the companies,
and be answerable that they be always recruited with English and
not Irish ; to see the disbursements made for the repair of the way
through the mountains and of the forts; and to dispose the
English soldiers now remaining of the two companies into con-
venient plantations, providing each with two servants, and wood
from Antigua towards the building of his house, which help, with
the arrears of his pay, will make him a substantial planter,
making a considerable addition to the militia of the country.
The forts at Sandy Point and English Road and the Governor's
House can hardly be taken by the French, because no cannon can
be brought against them, but with such difficulty that in the mean-
time relief may be had from Nevis, which can send down 1,000
musketeers in 3 hours ; and if the war be of such length that
M. de Baas should bring from Martinico and Guadaloupe 1,000
musketeers, which is near all their strength, the King shall gain
all the French islands if the Governor of Barbadoes take the oppor-
tunity to make a descent on Guadaloupe. Computes that 3,000,
with the help the country will contribute of hands to work, will
largely repair the forts, build the Governor's house, and put in
order the highway through the mountains ; fo: the levy money and
transportation of two companies, 4001. ; about 100 servants for the
soldiers to be made planters, about 1,0001. ; timber for their houses
about 200. ; and the establishment of the two companies yearly
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 267
1675.
and repair of the way, 3,400?. : computes this to be only for
3 years, in which time the Commissioners, having settled 40 or
50 soldiers every year in plantations, the militia will be strong
enough to keep the forts as formerly in times of peace, and
reckoning 600?. per annum to buy servants and timber for these
soldiers, the expense for the first year will be about 8,600?., and
for the two years following 4,000?. per annum, to defray which
his Majesty will receive for the 4 per cent, from Barbadoes and
the Leeward Islands about 5,700?. per annum ; but this revenue is
now anticipated for 4 or 5 years by tallies struck for soldiers'
pay and other disbursements of war for those Islands. If this be
too great an expense, the next best is that the little fort at Sandy
Point be slighted and a new one of good strength raised at the
English Road and all the cannon mounted there, and 30 soldiers
in garrison with no other officers than 2 sergeants, which comes to
about 420?. per annum ; and that special care be taken that on any
danger of war all the English retreat under protection of said fort
till relief be sent them. This will secure the King's interest,
although expose his subjects' plantations to fire and other spoils of
war. About 2,000?., with the help of the country, would raise thi
fort and repair the way through the mountains. The Lieutenant-
General, who now lives at Nevis, should be obliged always to live
on St. Christopher's, which will be a great means to replant it, and
bring much business of the other islands. 4 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 34/ No. 110.]
July 7. 619. Copy of preceding. 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 111.]
July 8. 620. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. St. Christopher's. Sir Chas. Wheler's amendments to the draft of
a memorial read in part, and being demanded if his Majesty were
still at liberty to insist on the advantage of the Treaty of Breda,
he referred himself to his answer of July 1 (see ante, No. 615), and
told the Lords if they had not copies of his proceedings with
M. de Baas he would furnish them. Resolved to have the whole
matter seriously considered. The reading of the [above] letter
from Sir Charles, of the 7th instant, setting forth a method of his
own for the demand of reparation, and a method for the security
and preservation of the island, put off. p. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. CIV., 32]
July 8. 621. Sir Chas. Wheler to Sir R. Southwell, Secretary to the
Committee of Council for Plantations. Begs pardon for his
absence the next day the Council shall meet on the affairs of St.
Christopher's, having engaged himself in some business in the
country before receiving his summons ; but Mr. Prescott will
attend their Lordships with his papers, and Sir Robert may take
copies or abstracts of any that may throw light on the pretended
reasons of the French Lieutenant-General to obstruct the execution
of the Articles of Breda, not doubting that he took notice of their
Lordships' order to use them only and give them back. Mr. Prcscott
will keep them safe for Sir Charles. " Rec d ., 12 July." 1 p, [Col,
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 112.]
y 12849. A
268
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
July 11.
Surinam.
July 11,
July 11.
Surinam.
(322. Edward Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to Sec. Sir Joseph
Williamson. Sailed out of the Downs, 6th April with H.M.S.
Hunter and the Hercules and America ; anchored 8th in Torbay ;
on the 12th sailed towards Madeira where they arrived on the
27th, but the Governor denying them "produck" unless they
would enter the king's ship as a merchantman they sailed for
Surinam ; on 14th May met two ships bound for Barbadoes by
whom they wrote to the Secretaries of State ; on 29th made Cape
Orange, about 80 leagues from Surinam River, where they arrived
June 2nd. It was concluded not to adventure over the Bar till the
rise of the spring tides, so they dispatched a boat to the Governor
with notice of their arrival, who, by return, sent a pilot with
invitations to come ashore. Delivered all letters on the 4th, and
took the Governor's receipt, who received them with extraordinary
civility at Paramaribo, where the Advice boat rode, which arrived
28th March, but the Captain died before she was clear of the
Channel ; the next day the State's Order was published in English
and Dutch in Paramaribo and Tororica, and notice given that on
30 June/10 July the Governor and two of his Council would sit
with his Majesty's Commissioner at Paramaribo to determine all
matters directed by those orders. In four days all matters were
brought to a final determination according to justice, and the
Governor gave satisfaction for the cattle and provisions taken in
time of war, and anything else that appeared due, and execution to
issue in three days against the stayers if payment be not made
to his Majesty's subjects according to sentence. Were obliged to
promise them all transportation direct to Jamaica, else three
families would not have removed ; and such a supply may conduce
more to the advantage of that place than four times the number
from Europe, both in respect of their seasoned constitutions and
great experience in planting, most having been at it these twenty
years. All things being amicably accommodated, and compliance
given to all demands, except the detention of two or three orphans
left particularly to the care of the Governor and Council, who will
give reasons upon the refusal, and all things finally determined
between party and party, they thought it their duty to render a
particular account by the Hunter having no further service for
her here ; and have also given notice to his Majesty's subjects that
at the next full moon they intend to sail direct for Jamaica, whence
Sec. Williamson shall have a further account. Endorsed, "R.
Sept. 19 " &c. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 113.]
623. Duplicate of the preceding. Endorsed, " Rec d . this by the
Rainbow of Flushing who arrived at Plymouth, 8 Oct. 1675 and
sent away the same day your very humble servant William
Jennens. R., 11 Oct. 1675." [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 114.]
624. Edw. Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to Sec. Williamson,
Since closing their letters, have occasion to add that the Jews
having demanded transportation with his Majesty's subjects, the
Governor told them his orders were to suffer only the English to
go and that the 5th Article of the last treaty mentioned only
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
259
July 12.
Surinam.
July 14.
1675.
English in the Dutch translation; but finding that the Latin
original was subjects, the Governor complied and made publication
that the Hebrew nation might depart, but since a ship from
Holland (as the Governor pretends) brought orders for stopping
them, but finds this a pretence. Understanding the Mayor of the
garrison had been all over the country to take a list of the Dutch,
took occasion to pump him and found they were but 130, besides
the garrison of about 140; and finding the Jews to be as con-
siderable for number and fortune, and that more had given in
their names to depart than the Governor expected, the Governor
wholly altered his resolution of suffering them to go, believing
it would be an immediate destruction to the place. Endorsed,
" R., 11 Oct. 1675," &c. I p. [Col Papers, Vol. 34, No. 115.]
625. Edw. Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to Sir R. Soutnwell.
duplicate of their letter to Sir J. Williamson (see preceding No.).
2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 34, No. 116 ; also Col. Entry Bk,
No. LXXVIII.,pp. 97-100.]
626. Order of the King in Council. On reading petition of the
merchants and freighters of the ship Virgin, setting forth their
proceedings to obtain satisfaction for their losses by her capture by
the Spaniards in the West Indies, amounting to 15,000^., which
Capt. Cooke had been soliciting at great expense above nine month*,
being more than double the time limited by his Majesty, and yet
could not obtain any other answer than a despatch sent to the
Havana, which had not the least prospect of satisfaction, and
therefore praying letters of reprisal according to the order of 3rd
July 1674 ; ordered, that copy of this petition and of said despatch
be delivered to Sec. Coventry, who is to acquaint Don Pedro
Romquillos, Envoy Extraordinary of the King of Spain, therewith,
and that if satisfaction be not forthwith given his subjects his
Majesty can no longer deny them letters of reprisal. 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 34, No. 117.]
627. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Lord Vaughan, Governor of
Jamaica. In execution of the last Article of the Treaty Marine of
1st December 1674 with the States General, his Majesty has
commanded him to transmit the enclosed authentic copy that it
may be punctually observed by all his subjects. With Latin copy
of the Treaty, attested by Secretary Williamson. p. [Cot.
Entry Bk., No. XCIIL, 139.]
July 24. 628. Sir John Berry to (Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson). Arrived
Bristol frigate, ] ith instant in St. John's Harbour and found H.M.S. Swann with
^Harbour"'* ^ ships, the greatest part bound to a market. Has sent two able
Newfoundland, persons as far as Capes Bonavista and de Race to call in all the
harbours, bays, creeks, &c., and take exact account as directed, ai.d
to declare his Majesty's pleasure to all the Planters. Has already
done it in this Harbour, and they promised obedience, but the
greatest part are too poor to remove unless his Majesty will send
a ship for them, and at last they must be put on the Parish
B*
July 18.
Whitehall.
260 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
wherever they come. A labouring man will get in a summer
season near 20, and their daily food comes out of the sea, while
such a person would not get 31 in England. Has made diligent
inquiry into all those things laid to the Planters' charge by the
Merchants, and finds most of them false, manifested in this single
point. Summoned the Admirals and Commanders of 45 ships,
and told them he thought it would be convenient that no stages,
flakes, storehouses, or anything else should be pulled uown> but
preserved till next season ; several old and experienced Com-
manders were for the preservation of all, but three-fourths were for
taking them down, making many pretences that they had been at
great charge and labour to build them, and why should another
enjoy their goods next year ? In conclusion, told them his Majesty's
Charter forbids that any spike or nail should be drawn, b;it every-
thing entirely preserved, and he would take particular notice of
those that should offend, and acquaint his Majesty therewith. All
these things are laid to the Planters' charge. It is a common
practice with the Commanders to brew beer, wood their ships, and
sell the remains of the stages and houses to the sack ships. Has
had experience of it 20 years since in a voyage here, and taken
them in the very act of doing it since he came here. The charge
laid to the Planters of enticing the men to stay behind and neglect
their families is as true as the former; for when the voyage is
ended, to save 80s. or 40. for their passage, the Commanders
persuade the Planters to receive them, and the seamen to tarry
behind, as some Commanders have confessed, pretending they knew
no order to the contrary. As to buying wine and brandy from
New England in exchange for fish, has ordered them all to give
account of all the wine, brandy, and other goods they have bought
this year, with names of ship, master, and where she belongs.
These Planters are not so bad as the Merchants make them, but
some "self-ended" persons have a mind to engross all into their own
hands. It is the opinion of several experienced Commanders that
if those people be removed from this country, his Majesty's subjects
would in few years find the ill-effects of it, for undoubtedly the
greatest part would settle among the French, where they are
already invited with great promises, or else for New England;
they implore his Majesty's favour to continue, and promise all
obedience to what orders shall be given. Several of the ships
whose Merchants made such a clamour for convoy are scattered up
and down, and going away without taking any notice of him.
Designs to sail in August for the Bay of Bulls, there to make up
the fleet, and to sail thence 20th Sept. at furthest, unless the
ships cannot be ready. The fishers are like to make an indifferent
good voyage, having taken about 200 kintalls per boat ; the
"Caplinge scoole " of bait is gone, which is a great detriment.
St. John's is an excellent Harbour, large enough for 100 sail, with
a narrow entrance and very high land ; a small charge may fortify
it to keep out a considerable fleet, and several think that, if the
inhabitants be taken away, the French will soon possess it, to the
loss of several advantages his Majesty's subjects yet enjoy, it being
in tbe middle of the laud. Has inquired in this Port, and ca.un.ot
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES 261
1675.
find that any New England vessels have been here with the goods
before mentioned ; but, on the contrary, that New England has
taken good quantities of those goods from hence, the product of
which is shipped in English vessels for a market. Has given
account to Mr. Sec. Coventry and Mr. Pepys to the same effect.
Endorsed, R., 23 Aug. 1675." 3 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 34,
No. 118.]
July 29. 629. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Jonathan Atkins,
Governor of Barbadoes. To same effect as his letter to Lord
Yaughan (see ante, No. 627), with copy of the Treaty Marine with
Holland. p. [Col Entry Bk., No. XCIIL, 139.]
July 30. 630. Mem. of letter to Lord Vaughan, appointing Sir Henry
Windsor. Morgan, of the Council of Jamaica, in the room of Maj.-Gen
Banister, deceased. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XCV., 92.]
Aug. 4. 631. Minutes of the Committee for Plantations. The Lords
report of Mr. Harris's case and the remedy fit for him, all drawn
up this day in a letter proper for his Majesty's signature, which
his Majesty approved of, and ordered to be prepared by Mr.
Sec. Williamson, and sent to the Governors in New England.
See next entry. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. LX., p. 42, and Vol. 104,
p. 33.]
Aug. 4. 632. The King to the Governors of Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
New Plymouth, and Connecticut. Embodying the report of the
Committee for Plantations on William Harris's petition. Recites
the Petitioner's complaints, and commands the Governors of the
respective Colonies to appoint honest and indifferent persons as
judges and jurymen, and gives them authority to determine the
differences, the result of which they are to send an account. [Col.
Entry Bks., Vol. 60, pp. 42-47, and Vol. 93, p. 139 &.]
Aug. 4. 633. Petition of the Merchants and Freighters of the ship
Virgin to the King and Council. That upon their humble address,
setting forth the delays and denials their Agent has met with in
the Court of Spain in his solicitations for satisfaction for Petitioners'
losses, his Majesty, by Order of July 14th last, appointed Mr. Sec.
Coventry to acquaint the Spanish Envoy Extraordinary here that,
unless he forthwith gave them satisfaction, his Majesty would
grant them letters of reprisal; in pursuance whereof Don Pedro
Romquillos has had a copy of said Order, and some of Petitioners
have attended him for satisfaction, but he replied that he was
wholly ignorant of the concern, and they must expect satisfaction
from the place where the injury was done. Pray letters of re-
prisal, as declared by his Majesty's Orders of 3 July 1674 and 14
July last. Endorsed, " Read in Council, Aug. 4, 75." 1 p. [Col
Papers, Vol. 35, No. 1.]
Aug. 4. 634. Petition of the Merchants and Freighters of the ship
Thomas and Mary to the King in Council. In pursuance of his
262
COLONIAL PAPEBS.
1675.
Majesty's Order of 17th July 1674, Petitioners' Agent has attended
in the Court of Spain, soliciting satisfaction for their losses, above
9 months, to their great expense, being more than double the time
limited by his Majesty, yet cannot procure any other answer than
the despatch annexed, which has not the least prospect towards
satisfaction, Petitioners being directed to the Havana to sue for
said ship and goods ; while the pirates amongst whom the goods
were divided are unknown to Petitioners, and it may be, since dead,
insolvent, or elsewhere; neither if it could be obtained is above
one-fifteenth part of their loss offered in satisfaction for the whole ;
and Petitioners are absolutely denied satisfaction for the logwood
on board, yet it is acknowledged that the owner was no pirate,
nor found trading in or invading any of their ports, but was taken
in the high sea. Pray letters of reprisal according to aforesaid
Order of 17th July. Endorsed, " Read, Aug. 4, 75," &c. 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 35, No. 2.]
Aug. 4. 635. Order of the King in Council. On reading Petition of
Hampton Court, the Merchants and Freighters of the ship Virgin, praying that in
regard all their solicitations for satisfaction of their losses had
proved fruitless, his Majesty would grant them letters of reprisal,
ordered that Petitioners attend his Majesty in Council the first
Council day after his return to Whitehall, and produce proofs of
their losses and damages, and that Don Pedro de Romquillos, Envoy
Extraordinary of Spain, have notice that he may be present, and
then his Majesty will give such order that his subjects may be
righted, if wrong be done them, without any more delay. Endorsed,
" This order was translated into French and sent to the Spanish
Envoy, 7th of Aug. 75." 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 35, No. 3.]
Aug. 4-5. 636. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. Col. Chr. Codrington
re-elected Speaker, the House having sat three times by adjourn-
ment. An Act to give encouragement to all persons to take up
runaway Christian servants, and requiring security from such as
keep boats, passed.
Aug. 5. Resolved on debate of petition of Col. Dan. Searle, to move his
Excellency and Council, if it appear to them lawful and convenient,
to afford him a re-appraisement of his estate, taken in execution at
the suit of John Hallett. An Act concerning negroes, with some
amendments, ordered to be transcribed, and some of the members
having gone away in the afternoon so that there could not be made
a House, adjourned till Tuesday next come three weeks. 3 pp.
[Col Entry Bk,, No. XIII., 188-190.]
Aug. 5.
Whitehall.
Aug. 5.
Tortugas.
637. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Sir Wm. Berkeley, Governor
of Virginia. To the same purport as his letter to Lord Vaughan
of July 18 (see ante, No. 627). Sends a Latin copy of the
Treaty Marine with Holland. \ p. [Col. Entry Bk, No. XCIIL,
139.]
688. M. Ogeron to (? Mr. Byndloss). Intreats him to give to
whom he shall think fit the letter of attorney he directs to him,
that he may recover what is due to the Lord Admiral from the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 263
1675.
privateer captains and their companies that sail under his com-
mission, and touch in Jamaica to dispose of their prize goods.
With attestation by James Barclay, sworn 22nd July 1676, that
he truly rendered the above out of a French original, which he
believes was signed by Ogeron, whose hand he very well knows ;
and certificate from Samuel Longe that this is a copy delivered in
Council. Endorsed, "Reed, from Mr. Bindloss." 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 35, No. 4.]
Aug. 7-17. 639. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Lord Privy Seal. Encloses List
Madrid. O f Papers that have passed on Capt. Cooke's business, and of what has
been sent to Mr. Sec. Coventry, and copies of the despatches given
by the Council of Indies to the Captain of the Havana. Has
waited near a month without answer, and perceiving their mind is
not to give any real satisfaction for injuries done in the Indies,
has consented to the Captain's eager desire of returning home.
Endorsed by Locke, " Rec., Sept. 24, 1675, by Mr. Cooke." Encloses,
639. I. List of Papers concerning differences between the
Spaniards and English in the West Indies :
1673, Dec. 5. Orders on behalf of Mr. Littleton, &c.,
concerned in the ships Virgin and Mary. See preceding
Vol., No. 1178.
1673-74, Mar. 5. Order of Council concerning the ships
the Virgin Pink, &c. See preceding Vol., No. 1226 II.
1673-74, Mar. 11. Order upon Report of Committee.
See preceding Vol., No. 1226.
1675, June 9. Order for recalling Mr. Edmund Cooke
out of Spain. See ante, No. 579.
1675, Aug. 4. Order about Capt. Cooke > &c. See
ante, No. 635.
1675, Sept. 30. Minute of the Council of Plantations.
See No. 683.
1675, Oct. 8. The Judge of the Admiralty's Report
about Mr. Cooke, &c. See No. 693.
1675, Nov. 1. Letter to Sir Leolin Jenkins about
Mr. Cooke. See No. 702.
1675, Nov. 29. Report from Committee of Plantations
in the case of Capt. Cooke. See No. 719.
1675, Dec. 1. Minute of the Council about Capt. Cooke.
See No. 720.
1677, Apr. 30. Letter from Mr. Chas. Bertie to Sir
Robt. Southwell about Captain Cooke.
1677, May. Draft of a Report from Sir Robt. South-
well to the Lord Treasurer about Capt. Cooke.
1674, Oct. 19-29. Copy of a memorial to the Queen
of Spain and Translation. See No.64>0 I., n.
N.B. The remainder of the papers described in this list, forty in
number, the originals of which are all consecutively numbered, are
abstracted below. Together, 6 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 5, 5 I.]
Aug. 7-17. 640. Sir Wm. Godolphin to Sec. Coventry. This is to accom-
p anv am j rec0 mmend Capt. Edmond Cooke returning homeward
264 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
to give account of his success here in obedience to the Order of
Council. He carries no better satisfaction on the business of the
Virgin and Thomas and Mary than Sir Wm. represented the 30th
past, and foretold the $ March, for though having replied
against those despatches they have been entertained with hopes of
amendment from a Consulta transmitted by the Council of the
Indies to the Queen. Finds after waiting above three weeks it is
an amusement only, and their wonted way of denial, which is not
to answer. Has therefore thought it expedient the Captain should
stay no longer, who will put into his Honor's hands a packet of
40 papers, being copies of what have passed here in his solicitation,
which he has enforced in the best manner that the common interest
of both crowns seemed to him to require. Some of the wisest
ministers here concur in his indignation at the late inhuman
dealing with the English in the West Indies, but the ignorant zeal
and presumption of new councillors and of the generality prevails
over the wisdom of a few to such a degree as they exclaim against
those who treated with him the Peace of America as betrayers of
their country. They ought therefore rather to provide against
future injuries than to depend on satisfaction here, till they have
taught the Spaniards their own interest in the Indies by more
efficacious means than friendship. Endorsed, "Reed. 23 Septr."
Annexed,
640. I., II. Memorial of Sir Win. Godolphin to the Queen of
Spain. Containing a full account of the depredations
upon the Virgin of London, Edmond Cooke, Master, by
the Spanish in the West Indies (see preceding Vol.,
No. 11 78 i.), and demanding reparation and satisfaction
for same. Madrid, 1674, Oct. |f. Spanish, with English
translation.
640. ill., iv. Memorial of Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Queen of
Spain. Complaining of the depredations upon the ship
Thomas and Mary, Wm. How, Master, and Rich. Ashall,
Merchant, taken by Don Francisco Lopez de Andrade, in
the West Indies, and demanding reparation and satis-
faction for same. Madrid, 1674, Oct. f. Spanish and
English translation.
640. V. Sir William Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin, Pre-
sident of the Council of the Indies. Recommending the
person and business of Capt. Edmond Cooke, about the
ship Virgin ; as also about the ship Thomas and Maiy.
Madrid, 1674, Nov. &. Spanish.
640. VI. The Conde de Medellin to Sir William Godolphin, in
answer to the above. Endorsed, " This letter was not
delivered to me till November 19th." Madrid, 1674,
Nov. &. Spanish.
640. VII. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin. En-
dorsed, "Answering his of the 12th, and expostulating
on the business of the ships Thomas and Mary, of
Virginia, and Virgin, of London, taken by the Spaniards
in the West Indies." Madrid, 1674, Nov. f.
Spanish,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 265
1675,
640. viii., IX. Memorial of Captain Edmund Cooke to the Oonde
de Medellin, President of the Council of the Indies.
Presenting jointly the exemplifications under the seal of
the Admiralty Court of England containing the proofs
made there touching the damages and losses sustained by
the capture of the ships Thomas and Mary and Virgin,
&c. 1674, Dec. T 2 T . Spanish and English trans-
lation.
640. X. Memorial of Thomas Cooke to the Conde de Medellin,
President (of the Council) of the Indies. Presenting the
exemplification translated into Spanish by the Secretary
of languages in virtue of the Council's order to that
purpose, and praying justice thereupon. 1674-75, Jan.
-$. Spanish.
640. xi. Memorial of Thos. Cooke to the Conde de Medellin.
Annexing the translation of two Orders of Council about
his and Mr. Ashall's business for their coming to Madrid
to demand satisfaction. Madrid, 1675, Feb. 6. Spanish.
640. XIL, xin. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin.
Pressing dispatch and satisfaction on the several com-
plaints made by him of hostilities committed by the
Spaniards on the English in the West Indies, particularly
in the cases of the ships Virgin, Thomas and Mary, and
Humility, and the murder of Timothy Stamp. Madrid,
1675, Feb. 11. Spanish and English translation.
640. xiv., xv. The Conde de Peneranda to Sir Wm. Godolphin.
The Queen of Spain has commanded the Council of the
Indies that the English prizes made in the Havana by
Francisco Lopez de Andrade and Don Phelipe Geraldino
be restored to their owners ; and at the same time the
Council of the Indies has represented to Her Majesty the
vexatious murders and robberies committed by subjects of
his Majesty of Great Britain against those of this Crown,
a particular relation whereof he will deliver his Excellency,
her Majesty promising herself that his Majesty will order
due satisfaction and reparation to be made. Madrid,
1675, April 10. Spanish and English translation.
640. XVI., XVII. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Conde de Peneranda.
In relation to the complaints on both sides in the West
Indies, and that those of the Spaniards may be justified
and proved as ours have been. Madrid, 1675, May 8.
Spanish and English translation.
640. xvin., xix. The Conde de Peneranda to Sir Wm. Godolphiu.
The Council of the Indies will give him the clearest
information as to what prizes the Queen commanded to
be restored. Sends relations of the violences committed
by the English against Spanish subjects in the Indies in
the same form that Council put them into the Queen's
hands, not doubting his Excellency will transmit them to
his Majesty of Great Britain, and solicit due satisfaction
and reparation. Madrid, 1675 May 9. Spanish and.
English translation.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1676.
640. XX., xxi. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Conde de Medellln.
Begs to specify in what manner the prizes are to be
restored, what satisfaction for ships since lost, goods
plundered and damages accruing, with such other parti-
culars as may enable him to give his Majesty some
distinct account what satisfaction to his suffering subjects
and to the public justice he may at length expect from her
Majesty's friendship. Madrid, 1675, May 15. Spanish
and English translation.
640. XXII., XXIIL, xxiv. The Conde de Medellin to Sir Wm.
Godolphin. Sends in answer to his Excellency's of this
date, inclosed letter from Don Antonio de Rozaa
expressing the satisfaction her Majesty has resolved to
give to the owners of the ships Thomas and Mary and
Humility of London, also letter to the Governor of the
Havana for punctual restitution and performance of her
Majesty's warrant. Encloses,
i. Don Antonio de Rozas, Secretary of New Spain, to
the Conde de Medellin. Madrid, 1675, April 7.
Spanish.
II. The Conde de Medellin to Don Francisco Rodriguez
de Ledesma, Governor and Captain General of the
Havana. Recommends the bearer, Captain
Edmund Cooke, who also carries a despatch from
her Majesty concerning his ship, which is to be
executed without any delay or vexation. Madrid,
1675, May 9. Spanish.
640. XXV. Sir William Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin.
Pressing the despatches for the restitution of the English
Prizes taken in the West Indies. Madrid, 1675, June 6.
Spanish.
640. xxvi. The Conde de Medellin to Sir Wm. Godolphin. In
answer to the above. Madrid, 1675, June 6. Spanish.
640. xxvii. Don Antonio de Rozas to the Conde de Medellin.
Endorsed, "Copy of the Secretary of New Spain, his
paper to the Conde de Medellin, June 6, 1675. Enclosed
to me by that Conde the same day, referring me hereunto
for the state of the despatches about the restitution of
the English Prizes made in the Indies. Madrid, 1675,
June 6. Spanish.
640. xxviii., xxix. Commission of the Queen Regent of Spain
to Don Antonio Ortiz de Matienzo, Lieutenant to the
Governor and Captain-General of Cuba and the City of
3an Christobel of the Havana. For restitution to be
made to Wm. How and Richard Ashall of the value and
proceed of the Thomas and Mary and her lading taken by
Francisco Lopez de Andrade, except the Campeachy wood
which is declared for lost as not to be traded without
license. Madrid, 1675, June 8. S2^anish and English
translation.
640. xxx., xxxi. Sir Win. Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin.
Relating briefly the progeeUings that had passed on Capt.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
267
1675.
Cooke's business about the Virgin, made prize in the
Havana in May 3 673, the present difficulties and mistakes
thereupon, and pressing for dispatch. Madrid, 1675,
June 21. Spanish and English translation.
640. xxxii., xxxni. Commission of the Queen Regent of Spain
to Don Antonio de Matienzo. For restitution to Edmond
Cooke of the Virgin, of London, and her merchandize,
seized by Don Philip Geraldino, in May 1673, near the
Havana, except the Campeachy wood. Madrid, 1675,
July 2. Spanish and English translation.
640. xxxiv., xxxv. Memorial of Capt. Cooke to the Conde de
Medellin, President of the Indies. Against the Despatch
[Commission of the Queen of Spain] delivered to him
for the [Governor of the] Havana as insufficient. Madrid,
1675, July 16. Spanish and English translation.
640. xxxvi. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Conde de Medellin.
" Against the Despatches delivered to Capt. Cooke for the
Havana as insufficient, and accompanying the Captain's
Memorial to the same effect. Also about the ship
Humility, Matthew Fox, Master." Madrid, 1675, July 16.
Spanish.
640. xxxvii., xxxviii. The Memorial of Capt. Cooke above
referred to. Madrid 1675, July 23. Spanish and English
translation.
640. XXXix. Memorial of Capt. Cooke to the Conde de Peneranda.
Against the orders he had received for the Havana, and
praying his favour to the dispatch of a new Consulta
about his business from the Council of Indies depending
before the Queen. Madrid, 1675, July 25. Spanish.
640. XL. Sir Wm. Godolphin to the Marquis de Mesorada, Sec-
retary of the Universal Dispatch. Has received the King's
orders to dispatch Capt. Cooke to England to acquaint
his Majesty with the success of his suit in this Court since
September last, in seeking satisfaction for the ships
Virgin, and Thomas and Mary, taken by subjects of this
Crown in the West Indies, and having understood there
is a Consulta depending in her Majesty's hands concerning
this matter, begs his Excellency to dispatch the business
with all possible brevity. Madrid, 1675, Aug. 1. Spanish.
Together, 90 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 6, 6 I-XL.]
641. Another copy of the Queen Regent of Spain's Commission
abstracted above, No. 640, XXVIIL Endorsed, "Rece d . 21 July
1675. Read in Council Aug*. 4^ 1675." 1 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 35, No. 7.]
642. Answer of the Queen Regent of Spain to the Memorial
touching the Humility of London, taken by Don Philip Geraldino,
Irishman, in the Havana, dated Madrid, 1675, June 8. Two copies,
one endorsed, "Read in Council 17 Sept. 1675," the other, "The
bumble petition, of Martins Stampe for Reprisal ag*. the Spaniards,
268
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Reed j un e 29* 1677. Read in Council, July 20* 1677." Together,
4 PP> [Vol. Papwa, Vol. 35, Nos. 8, 9.]
Aug. 7-17. 643. Sir Wm. Godolphin to James Littleton. It is a great
Madrid. mortification to Sir Wra. that he has obtained no better satisfaction
for the injuries Littleton and others concerned in the ship Virgin
have sustained from the Spaniards, than what Captain Cooke the
bearer will show in the despatches for the Havana ; against which
he has excepted as insufficient, as well touching the logwood as for
the uncertainties. They will not disburse anything here towards
reparation, and he is too well acquainted with Spanish forms of
proceeding to advise him on so weak grounds to seek any at the
Havana, unless by virtue of his Majesty's Commission, instead of this
from the Queen of Spain. Nothing has been omitted on his part for the
prevention of violent remedies which he easily foresees must follow,
and Captain Cooke has solicited with all vigour and dexterity ; but
their misfortune has been the loose constitution of this Government
during the minority which God be thanked will expire two months
hence and the erroneous opinions the Spaniards conceive of oura
from some transactions in Parliament. They fancy Parliament will
not suffer the King to do them any harm, and that without the
Spanish trade England would be all in disorder, and this makes
them bold. Hopes next Session will render his Majesty formidable
to his neighbours, which will furnish his Ministers abroad with the
best arguments to obtain justice for his subjects. Encloses a list of
papers which have passed in this business, which he will find at
large in Secretary Coventry's office. Pays his service to Messrs.
Wm. Buckler and Robert Foorthe who subscribed with him the
letter. 2 pp. [Col Papers, Vol. 35, No. 10.]
Aug. 7-17. 644. Judgment by P. Versterre, Governor of Surinam, -against
Paramaribo. Rowland Simpson, for 2407. payable to Andrew Clifford. Dutch,
1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, No. 11.]
Aug. 8.
Windier.
Aug. 9.
Windsor.
645. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Whereas
his Majesty has been informed that Capt. George Brimicane of
Jamaica at a Court of King's Bench held in that island was found
guilty of murder and sentence of death passed upon him, and
whereas the Governor has informed his Majesty that the Judges
having certified him that the fact could scarcely be adjudged murder,
and having recommended said Captain Brimicane to mercy he had
reprieved him for his Majesty's pleasure, it is his Majesty's pleasure
that a Bill be prepared to pass the Great Seal containing a grant of
pardon to said Capt. George Brimicane for said murder, and of
all penalties and forfeitures by reason thereof. 1 pp. [Dom. Entry
Bk., Chas. II., Vol. 28, pp. 141, 141a.]
646. Warrant to Lord Vaughan, Governor of Jamaica, em-
powering him to continue his reprieve to Capt. George Brimicane,
who was sentenced to death in Jamaica for murder, but reprieved
till hid Majesty's further order, on certificate from the Judges that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
269
1675.
Aug. 11.
Windsor.
Aug. 11.
Aug. 11.
Whitehall.
Aug. 11.
Whitehall.
the fact could scarcely be adjudged murder, and to deal with him a8
a person his Majesty intends to pardon. llpp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. XCV., 66, 67.]
647. Warrant to Sir Thomas Chicheley, Master General of the
Ordnance. Whereas the provision of powder lately sent lor Jamaica
has been cast away, the vessel suffering shipwreck, he is to deliver
100 barrels of powder more to such person as shall be authorised
to receive the same by the Governor of Jamaica. 1 p. [Dom.
Entry Bk, Chas. //., Vol 29, p. 132.]
648. The Committee of Council of Trade and Plantations to the
Governor of Virginia. That the King has superseded the late
Commission for Trade and Plantations and restored all the business
of that nature to its accustomed channel of a Committee of his
Privy Council. Require a clean and full account in writing of the
state and condition of his Plantation, the rules and laws of Govern-
ment, the revenue, number of Planters, &c., and also a journal of all
things which have passed since his arrival there. Circular letter.
2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 97, p. 9.]
649. The Council for Trade and Foreign Plantations to Sir
Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, &c. His Majesty has
superseded the Council of Trade and Plantations, and committed the
management of those "aflfaifSTto a Committee of the Privy Council.
Expect a full account in writing of the condition in which he found
that island, the Laws, Government, officers, revenue, forces in his
Majesty's pay, number of Planters and people, trade, condition of
neighbouring countries, and on what terms they live ; also a journal
of all things that have passed since his arrival, and from time to time
what shall occur in relation to the heads aforesaid. Circular letter.
2 J pp. [Col. Entry Bk, No. VI., 25-27.]
650. Minutes of the Committee for Trade and Plantations. His
Majesty having dissolved the late Council of Trade and Foreign
Plantations, and committed what was under their inspection to a
Committee of the Privy Council appointed for matters relating to
trade and foreign Plantations, their Lordships on the llth August
1675, signed the following circular letter to Lord Vaughan to have
a minute account of all things under his Government, viz. : That
they have thought fit to give his Lordship advertisement that hia
Majesty has committed to a select number of the Privy Council
the care of his Plantations, who are possessed of all books and
papers of said Council. Expect from his Lordship a full account
in writing of the condition in which he found Jamaica, a des-
cription of the country and commodities; the laws and rules of
Government; the Offices Civil, Ecclesiastical, and Military;
Revenue ; the effective force in his Majesty's pay ; the number of
Planters and people, and how many are able to bear arms; the
trade ; the condition of the neighbouring countries and places, and
on what terms they live with each other ; and generally of all things
lie shall judge necessary for their Lordships full information. They
270
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Aug. 11.
Whitehall.
Aug. 11.
Aug. 13.
Surinam.
Aug. 13.
Aug. 14.
also require him to transmit a journal of all things which have passed
since his arrival and of what shall occur for the future. 3^ pp.
[Col. Entry Bk., No. XXIX., 27-32.]
651. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Their Lordships signed a circular letter to Lord Vaughan at
Jamaica, and Sir Jonathan Atkins at Barbadoes, for a minute
account of all things under their Government ; other letters to be
prepared but with some variation. Letter from Sir R. Southwell
by order of the Lords to Sir Chas. Wheler, Lord Berkeley being
now in preparation for France and their Lordships desirous to arm
him with fit expedients to demand satisfaction in the business of
St. Christopher's, desire that Sir Chas. would alter the enclosed
paper so as to bring all into a fair draft, and also make another
draft according to the method in which he proceeded with
M. De Baas, that they may choose the best, supposing he may have
the same ready in a fortnight. A letter sent to Mr. Harris at the
Duke's Play House to hasten the seal for St. Christopher's, the
motto to be Sigillum Sancti Christopheri Nevis et Cseterarum
Insularum Nostrarum America Septentrionali adjacentium. 1 p.
[Col Entry Bk., No. CIV., 33, 34.]
652. Sir Robt. Southwell to Sir Chas. Wheler. Copy of the
letter abstracted in the preceding minutes. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. XLVL, 14.]
653. Edw. Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to [Sec. Sir Joseph
Williamson]. Having an opportunity by way of Holland, thought
themselves obliged to send copies of what they formerly wrote by
Capt. Dickenson, and to advertise him of the departure of his
Majesty's ships, subjects and slaves, having rather more on bo.ml
than in the list here inclosed. The ships are very much pestered
and could not contain more. By way of Jamaica he shall have
particulars more at large.
653. I., n. Copies of their letters of 11 July 1675 [dated 13 Aug.
1675] enclosed, see ante, No. 624.
658. in. A general list of the English that depart from Surinam
to Jamaica, numbering 109 names with wives, 90 children,
&c., and 1.049 slaves. For details see lists enclosed in
letter of 22nd Sept., No. 675. Together, 5$ pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 12, 12 I-IL]
654. Copy of above list, with one or two omissions. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, 101-105.]
655. Two Acts passed in the island of Montserrat, viz. : An Act
restraining physicians' high fees and fining rum works. In margin,
" Print this " and (2) for the speedy fixing of fire arms and also for
the encouragement of workmen. Dated 14 Aug. 1675. In
margin, " Expired." [Col. Entry Bk., No. L., 224-227.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
271
1675.
Aug. 23,
Windsor.
Aug. 25.
Port Royal.
Aug. 31.
Windsor.
Aug. 31.
Sept. 1.
Sept. 2.
656. The King to Lord Vaughan (Gov. of Jamaica). Having
received complaint from the Queen of Spain that several of his
subjects of Jamaica take commissions from Foreign Princes who are
enemies to the Catholic King, his Majesty requires him immediately
to issue a Proclamation recalling all such as have taken any such
Commissions, and prohibiting others from taking any for the
future, or assisting such as shall attempt hostilities against said
King or his subjects ; and that he proceed against any daring to
offend' against this order with the utmost severity of the law.
2 pp. [Col Entry Bk, No. XCV, 69, 70.]
657. Sir Henry Morgan to Capt. John Edmunds at Point
Negrill. Understanding from William Crane that he is timorous
to come into any of their harbours, assures him he will be very
welcome in any harbour ; and Mr. Crane the bearer will inform
him he shall have as much privilege as he can in reason expect
from the writer. Endorsed, " Sir H. Morgan's Letter to a
Privateer with French Com"." p. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35,
No. 13.]
658. Mem. That a letter was written from his Majesty to the
Governor and Council of the Massachusetts Colony in New Eng-
land in behalf of Samuel Bellingham for a re-hearing of his cause
concerning his father's will. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, p 77.]
659. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. The Supplemental
Act concerning negroes passed. Ordered, that the petition of James
Collins for remission of 802 Ibs. of sugar, arrears of old levies, he
being very poor and unable to pay, be granted, and that the Com-
mittee of Public Accounts take notice thereof; also, that the
Treasurer allow Richard Bate, merchant, half the duty cf 76 pipes
of Madeira wine entered by him, he having been at great trouble
and charge to save same after the ship was bulged. On infor-
mation of Thomas Wardall, Esq., that some land in St. Michael's
Town belonging to the country is encroached upon by William
Willson, the Assembly move his Excellency and Council that some
course be taken for the discoveiy thereof, and vindication of the
country's legal right.
Adjourned, at his Excellency's desire, to Tuesday next come 3
weeks, most of the Assembly being gone home by reason of the
lamentable hurricane last night and this morning. 2 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. XIII., 190-193.]
660. Sir Chas. Wheler to (Sir Robert Southwell, Secretary to
the Committee of Council for Plantations). Did not receive his of
the llth till the 17th current [Aug]. Left the papers that were
done between M. de Baas and himself with Sir Robert or Mr.
Prescott, for fear the originals sent to the Earl of Arlington might
be mislaid, so must trust to his own memory. Continues in his
judgment that the wording of those propositions that were sent to
him will much perplex Lord Berkeley, and though he should at
last prevail and the French King send positive orders to De Baaa
272 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1676.
and St. Laurence to do what is proposed to his own certain know-
ledge they cannot do it, (1) because the French Planters have not
ability to make satisfaction, and (2) would not obey if they had.
As to the first, computes the English pretence for negroes to be
near 40,000. (from which ought to be deducted about 5,00 0. for
diet of prisoners), and for other spoils and damages to le near
20,000., and all the French Islands are not worth those sums. As
to the second, the Frenchman produces his contract and makes
oath that he really paid so much, the Englishman swears he
received but half, the process is brought to the National Court,
which never decided any point, the judges of one nation pro-
nouncing a contrary sentence to the other. The appeal from this
Court is to Stapleton and De Baas who agree like fire and water,
or to the two Governors, Mathews and St. Laurence,- who are
yet more irreconcileable ; how is it possible then that this estimate
can be made ? The like again as to meliorations, of which though
there is not a word in the Treaty of Breda, yet Lord Arlington in
his letter signed by M. Colbert, has given some ground to the
French to insist upon. The French say he has " meliorated " the
plantation ; the English say he has " pejorated " it ; the National
Court deputes an Englishman and Frenchman to survey, who
report diversely, and the judges adhere to the report of the
surveyor of their nation, and so in other instances. But yet a
greater difficulty seems to be in the matter of the negroes, many
were distributed amongst the officers and soldiers for pay and
booty, and by them sold in the market, and the planter who legally
bought them will die before he will part with them until reim-
bursed. This is so tender a point that for those few negroes that
ran to Sir Charles at St. Christopher's for protection and chose
again their English masters, the French planters did so mutiny
that M. de Baas was \ery unsafe in his government, and gave
Sir Charles notice that it might not be in his power to prevent
the fury of the populace from running upon Sir Charles and
violently taking away their negroes, so that Sir Charles was
forced to the great hazard of his life to lie in the field with
cannon about him to defend the negroes. But should the French
King's orders be so strict that they must be obeyed, it can never be
proved that the tenth part of those negroes were ever in possession
of any Frenchman now in being, for many were conveyed to the
Continent, sold to the Spaniards, transported to other islands, or
have died since the Treaty of Breda. In this great difficulty,
although pressed, M. de Baas utterly refused to make proclamation
in the other islands, fixing a day for the English negroes to be
brought to make their choice before English Commissioners, or to
point out any other way, saying that there was no such method
directed in the Articles of Breda, and that the English must find
out where the negroes were ; which refuse! did not trouble Sir
Charles much, knowing that he woulc'. not have got 50 negroes,
and he wrote to Lord Arlington his Majesty should lay hold of
this great damage, and at least strike off the money for diet of
prisoners, and so keep alive his pretension for 35,OOOZ. damage,
believes he will find copy of that paper amongst others. Must
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 73
1675.
trouble him with one particular more. The first violence of the
French was their taking possession of the houses and plantations
of those English who went off the island but did not sell their
estates, for by the capitulations they were at liberty in person or
estate to stay, go, or return at pleasure, so that when the French
obtruded the oath to the French King upon them contrary to the
capitulations the loyal English would not take it nor sell (for not
above 20 or 30 sold), but went off to Nevis or adjacent islands, till
they should know his Majesty's pleasure. What had the French to
do to take possession of their houses ? much less had they any
right to carry their materials and those of six fair churches and
all the timber growing in the English mountains into the French
dominions, or to plantations bought of the English, and use them
in buildings, and afterwards pretend to be paid for meliorations.
Has been the longer that his wording of the propositions may be
the more clearly understood, viz. : 1. That such as did not sell
their estates on St. Christopher's may without delay be restored to
possession thereof in as good condition as when they left them,
going off for a time only to avoid the injustice of an oath tendered
contrary to the capitulations of peace, the French King proposing
a way for satisfaction for spoils without putting upon them the
impossibility of proving every particular carried away in their
absence. 2. That a further time be agreed on for repayment of
the price received by the English on sale of their estates, and a means
directed for ascertaining the same in such cases as Mr. Loverain's
and others, where the French pretend to more than the English
actually received ; and that in such cases as Mr. Freeman's and
others, who were paid in shipping or merchandize, and were robbed
at sea by the French, they may be put in possession of their
estates as though they had never sold them, the French King pro-
posing a way for satisfaction, without their seeking out the captains
of ships that violated their passports and robbed them. 3. When
any Englishman, who sold his estate, shall (within a time limited)
tender the price actually received, he shall immediately be put
into full possession, and the French receive satisfaction for melio-
ration by the grace of his Majesty, when satisfied that the estate
has been improved. 4. That whereas restitution to his Majesty
was delayed for four years after the publication of the peace by
frivolous and unjust objections, the French King propose a way
to give satisfaction to the English for their losses and damages for
that delay, especially to those who are utterly undone by spending
all their substance in expectation of the restitution ; and also make
satisfaction for negroes that have died or have been conveyed
away since publication of the peace. 5. That a further time may
be agreed on, and a fair way proposed by the French King, for
bringing the English negroes of St. Christopher's, Antigua, and
Montserrat to make their choice according to the Articles of Breda.
6. That his Majesty's subjects may have reparation for their losses
suffered through the French Governor's putting the edict of 31st
May/lOth June 1670 in execution, contrary to the French Am-
bassador's memorial, and against the treaties. 7. And that the
French King's positive orders be sent to M, do Baas and the
7 7J843. 8
274 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Chevalier St. Laurence without any further delay, requiring them
to execute the above demands. " Reed., 2 Sent. 1 G75. Eead in part,
16 Sept. 1675. Read again in part, 17 Sept. 1675. 9 pp. [Col
Papers, Vol. 35, No. 14 ; also Col. Entry Bk., No. 46, pp. 14-23.]
Sept. 3. 661. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. On information of
St. Jago de la the arrival of divers of his Majesty's subjects from Surinam in the
ga ' ship Henry and Sarah, and that they desired forthwith to be sent
down to the parish of St. Elizabeth where the Surinamers that
came with Maj.-Gen. Banister were already settled, ordered,
that said ship have orders to put them all ashore at Banister Bay,
staying there ] 4 days, that they may all have time carefully to
remove out of the ship, and carefully dispose of themselves and
their goods ; and that they be supplied with provisions and other
necessaries at moderate rates, and that the following proclamation
be made upon Port Royal : Whereas his Majesty has caused to be
transported to this island divers of his subjects from Surinam, and
hath given particular instructions to his Excellency that all possible
assistance be given them in order to their better settlement in this
island, ordered, that said persons be treated well, and received in
all places with all manner of friendship and kindness, that pro-
visions and all other necessaries be sold them at moderate and
easy rates, and that none presume to commit any extortion or
exactions on them. Proclamation proposed forbidding all persons
to go aboard any vessel before the Marshal of the Admiralty or
his Deputy had been there, but the Council thought such a
proclamation ought to be issued by his Excellency as Admiral. On
reading advices from Barbadoes concerning a late rebellion attempted
by the negroes there, and on consideration of the dangers that
might accrue to this island by the ill-government of negroes,
ordered, that no negres concerned in the late rebellion or convicted
of any other crime in Barbadoes be permitted to be bought or
sold, and that the Collector at Port Royal examine all masters of
ships from Barbadoes on their oaths, and take bond of them in 501.
that they will not put ashore any such criminal or convicted
negroes, or if any such have been brought hither to send them off
the island by the first opportunity ; arid if any such negroes shall
be left on shore or make their escape, then those that have trans-
ported them shall, on conviction, forfeit 50l. The Council
adjourned to the first Tuesday in October, when a quorum not
meeting it was further adjourned to 2nd November. 4i. [Col.
Entry Bk. t No. XXXV., 434-433.]
Sept. 6. 662. Gov. Leverett to the Lord Privy Seal [Earl of Anglesey].
Boston, New Acknowledges receipt of the King's commands subscribed by his
England. Lordship and 16 of the Privy Council, dated 2nd December 1674,
by the hand of Thomas Deane, agent to the African Company,
on 21st June 1 G75. Is ready to afford him due assistance according
to the King's command and as their service may call for, which,
he thinks, will not be in haste. For 40 years there has not been any
attempt on that navigation by any of our Massachusetts adven-
turers, only some from England or some Barbadoes merchants that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
275
1675.
have sent upon that voyage, and taken this way to repair their
vessels. Thanks him for his favour in appearing to the King
when the masts were sent, thinks possibly they may have
prejudiced themselves by not manifesting a suitable confidence,
but good manners teach them to be sparing in their intru-
sions. They are not altogether ignorant of the complaints with
which the King is unjustly troubled by their adversaries, but
are too poor to defray the expenses of some one to appear in
answer, and have not meet instruments among them ; are thus all
the more grateful for the goodwill of the King since hia restoration.
Must not omit to mention the condition the hand of the Lord has
been pleased to bring them into by the breaking forth of the
Indian natives by war first on Plymouth and then on them, by
their skulking and hiding way in the brushy woods, shooting
several English, and firing many hours, thereby doing great damage
to many out-plantations, and although on pursuit by soldiers most
or all that appeared in open hostility have heen forced to desert
their country and places of habitation, yet not without bringing
suffering upon many English, the which from the natives is most
unjust, they having no provocation, only were vexed at the execu-
tion of some of them for wilful murder, clearly proved. Endorsed,
"Read at Comt 4 Feb. 1675-6." 1 p. [Col Papers, Vol. 35,
No. 15.]
663. Copy of the above with Minute that it was read, 4th Feb.
[Col. Entry Bk. } No. 60, pp. 94-97.]
664. Caveat that nothing pass in favour of the patentees of
Connecticut in America to the prejudice of his Royal Highness'
interest at New York before notice be given to Sir John Werden,
Bart., his Royal Highness's Secretary, i p. [Dom. Entry Bk. t
Chas.ll., Vol. 45, p. 14.]
Sept. 12. 665. Sir John Berry to Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson.
H.M.S. Bristol, Refers to his former letter of 24th July (tee ante, No. G28).
Newfoundland. Encloses a perfect account of all the fishing ships employed by tho
merchant adventurers from Cape de Race to Cape Bonavista, with
their boats, men, and where bound. This year there are 175 ships,
with 4,309 men, and 688 boats, which at 250 kentalla per boat at
12s. per kentall amounts to 103,200?. ; 7 hhds. of train oil per boat
at 40s. per hhd. is 9,816?. ; and 20 kentalls of core fish per boat a:
5s. per kentall is 3,440?.; which in all comes to 116,272?. Has
likewise sent an exact account of the planters, who are 1,655 men,
women, and children, they employ 277 boats, and cured upwards
of 69,250 kentalls of merchantile fish, most of it shipped in English
vessels, which, with their core fish and oil, will amount to 46,813?.,
upwards of one-third of the fish taken by the merchant adven-
turers. By this his Honour may see what a loss his Majesty will
have if those poor people should remove, for they design to settle
amongst the French on the other side of Cape de Race, unless his
Majesty will let them continue. Stands in admiration how people
a 8
Sept. 6.
Boiton, New
England.
Sept. 11.
276 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
could appear before his Majesty with so many untruths against the
inhabitants. It was never known since the memory of the oldest
man using the trade that any New England ship brought wine or
brandy in exchange for fish, only some provisions, taking those
goods for payment. For better satisfaction, encloses a list of all
ships that have furnished them this year, with master's names, and
where they belong. The masters are the beginners in destroying
the stages, and to save 30s. for a seaman's passage care not how
many are left behind. Believes his Majesty will never have a
regulation of this fishery unless a governor be settled, for the
strongest treads down the weakest. Most of the ships bound to a
market are gone away two or three in company, scorning convoy.
Shall not be above 30 sail, and the weather proving ill for curing
will keep them till the 20th or 25th instant. Has sent home one
Jno. Bastard, who was apprehended for the supposed murder of
John Tozer, his fellow boatman, in May before his arrival, and
having examined the matter, has bound over four witnesses to
prosecute. Cannot get any certain account of the French and
their ships ; they have two men-of-war of 40 and 30 guns for convoy,
and rendezvous at Trepassey, near Cape de Race ; the St. Malo
fleet of 20 sail go without convoy, being all considerable ships,
and about 40 or 50 with convoy. Endorsed, " E. 11 Oct.
1675." Encloses,
665. r., ii. Duplicates of inclosures Nos. i., II. to Sir J. Berry's
letter of this date to Sir Robert Southwell. Together,
14 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 16, 16 i., IL]
Sept. 12. 666. Sir John Berry to Sir Robt. Southwell. To the same effect
H.M.S. Bristol, ag hi a preceding letter. Incloses accounts of the fishing ships and
Newfoundland inhabitants, and list of the ships bringing wine and brandy, above
half of which is sold to the fishing ships' crews, who come un-
provided, trusting to those ships that yearly bring great quantities,
and sell cheap, there being no duty. It will be easy to prevent all
this clamour about pulling down stages and seducing men to stay
in the country if every commander be bound in 5001. to return all
Ms crew (mortality excepted), and to take down all stages and
preserve them in some convenient place to serve next season ; for
if there be not some course taken, in a few years wood will be
very hard to bring out, and the sea and ice destroy many stages.
Endorsed, " Read at the Committee, 4 Dec. 1675. Read again at
the Committee, 13 April 1676. Read again the 8th Augt, 1676
in presence of Sir J. Berry." Encloses,
666. I. " A list of ships making fishing voyages with boat-
keepers who come passengers on their own account ;
and what ships bound to foreign markets ; from Cape de
Race to Cape Bonavista ;" with the harbours' names, and
distance apart ; latitude ; masters' names ; ships' names
of whence ; burden ; guns ; men ; boats ; stages ; train-
fats ; and whither bound ; amounting in all to 28 boat-
keepers, 172 ships, 13,106 tons burden, 675 guns, 4,309
men, 688 boats, 160 stages and 139 traiufats.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
277
1675.
666. II, " A list of the planters' names with an account of their
concerns from Cape de Race to Cape Bonavista ;" with the
harbours' names ; planters' names ; children, male and
female ; men ; boats ; stages ; trainfats ; and head of
cattle; amounting in all to 146 planters, 187 children
1,253 men, 277 boats, 127 stages, 51 trainfats, and 548
cattle.
666. ill. " A list of those that have furnished the inhabitants
and ships' crews with brandy, wines, &c., in the year
1675/' with the names of the masters, ships, and ports
whence they came, all English. Together, 15 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 17, 17 i.-ni.]
Sept. 13. 667. Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson to Gov. Leverett. Encloses
an authenticated copy of the Treaty with the States General of
1 Dec. 1674. Mem. The like letters were sent at same time
with authenticated Latin copies and translations in English to
John Winthrop, Governor of Connecticut, Josias Winslow, Governor
of New Plymouth, and Wm. Codington, Governor of Rhode Island.
1 p. [Col Entry Bk., No. XCIII., p. 141 a.]
Sept. 14.
St. Jago
de la Vega,
Jamaica.
Sept. 15.
St. James'.
668. Exemplification of the trial at a Special Sessions of the
Peace before Sir H. Morgan and others of Edward Crantield. On
the charge of having maliciously assaulted Thomas Younge, Chief
Mate of his Majesty's hired ship America, by running a cane (to
the value of 12 pence) into his right eye about the depth of 5 inches,
of which he immediately after died ; upon which the petty jury
found him guilty of chance medley, and he was quitted by pro-
clamation by order of Court. Two large sheets. [Col. Papers,
Vol. 35, No. 18 ; also Col Entry Bk., No. LXXVIIL, 136-141.]
669. Sir John Werden to Gov. Andros. Acknowledges letters
of 15th and 26th February and 20th April. His Royal Highness
is satisfied with his design of loading the Castle frigate with
timber from New York, on his being satisfied of the impossibility
of having her freighted from New England or Virginia. The
ship is safely arrived, and the timber and planks unloaded in his
Majesty's yard at Deptford ; it is very good of its kind, and comes
seasonably for his Majesty's service. Hopes it is come to a good
market, although the produce of it and the benefit of the freight,
will not countervail half the charge of the seamens' wages, besides
the victualling of the ship. As regards the protest against Capt.
Burton, sent to the Master Attendant and Mr. Shipwright of his
Majesty's yard to survey the ship as she was unloading, who restored
(sic) a certificate that she was full and advantageously stored, his
Royal Highness has considered of his reasons for letting the Dutch
pass with her lading of planks and pipe staves, and is very well
satisfied with his care to comply with the Acts of Navigation and his
taking the advice of the Council and with his care and prudence in
quelling the disorders of the chief of the Dutch with so much
calmness. He is to endeavour on all occasions to repress incli-
nations towards mutiny, but not to impose anything that's hard
278 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675,
and severe; he did very well to permit the person who so earnestly
petitioned for it to be sworn upon his submission. As regards the
Mahakes' propositions at Albany, he is to do his best to bring to
pass such an understanding that the French may not come on this
side the lake or river Canada to direct the trade or annoy the
Mahakes. As regards the stricter peace with the three Southern
Indian Nations and the murder of Dr. Reed [Roacles] and his servant,
leaves it wholly to him to deal with them as may best stand with
the honour and safety of the Government. As regards salt refers
him to his Royal Highness' letter of April (6). Has consulted the
Judge of the Admiralty touching the Bostoner's ship arrested by
Mr. Dyre. Has consulted the Judge of the Admiralty, whose
opinion is that, if the ship came into possession of the Dutch
during the hostilities it was well judged to be a prize by Gov.
Calne, and the judgment cannot be reversed, the possessions of the
Dutch vesting in them an absolute property of all moveables
taken during the war. This Sir Leoline Jenkins declares to be
both by the general law of nations and by the Treaty of Breda
confirmed by that of Westminster, 13 Feb. 167| ; knows not
whether Evertson's letter to the Mayor and Aldermen of New
York promising security for all their estates may make an alter-
ation in the case. Sir Leoline Jenkins' opinion is that Calne's
judicial proceedings are not to be questioned as either void or
unjust. If he has done them wrong they are without remedy
(except from the mere generosity of the States General), the peace
having established an amnesty extinguishing all right and pretence
of action ; doubts not but he will thereby know how to govern
himself as to those particulars. Is informed that pieces of may
be current money anywhere according to their true value (as in
England), but no proclamation by the Duke ought to make them
so without the King's authority under the Great Seal, the like also
for putting any stamp thereon ; it is worthy his further thoughts
what profit will result from these things before they go about to
get the King's grant. There is no law prohibiting sending their
brass farthings thither if it be worth the while. The Duke is
pleased to hear he has probable hopes of settling the fishing trade,
he looking upon the fishery as the most likely thing to produce
wealth and power at sea for the Plantation. Capt. Salisbury is
arrived ; will send a clear account of all as soon as he has his
Royal Highness's opinion. Presents his service to himself and lady.
Printed in New York Documents, III., 232-234. 3 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk. t Vol. 70, pp. 19-21.]
Sept. 15. 670. Edwin Stede and Stephen Gascoigne to [Sir R. Southwell ?].
Barbadoes. Cannot yet prevent the presumption of interlopers who brave
his Majesty's authority. Formerly wrote about the ketch which
came hither with negroes belonging to Morris and Fowell, 10 of
which they seized ; after which said Morris and Fowell sold her to
Vaughan and Middletoii, who it was apprehended designed to fit
her again for Guinea, and therefore obtained the Governor's order
that she should come into port or depart the island. But the
owners aDd master obeyed neither, nor could they prevail with
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES, 279
1675,
Capt. Heath or Chevall to send boats and men to take her.
Whereupon, seeing she daily took in goods, Stede, as Collector of
Customs, ordered his boat, with 3 waiters, to go on board and
search for uncustomed goods and set the broad arrow on the mast ;
but after many threats they shot several muskets and forced the
officers on shore. Presented enclosed petition to his Excellency,
who had no vessel to send out : but in the nick of time his Majesty's
ship Foresight and another came to anchor, and the ketch sailed
immediately. It is evident the people will no more obey Acts of
Parliament than his Majesty's Patents, the collection of customs
being settled by Act. Endorsed, " A paragraph of a letter from
Edwin Stede, Esq., and Mr. Stephen Gascoigne, in Barbadoea." 1 p.
[Col Papers, Vol. 35, No. 19.]
Sept. 16. 671. Papers read before the Committee of Council for Plan-
tations, viz. : Letter from Sir Chas. Wheler to Sir Robt. South-
well [see ante, No. 660], and Sir R. Southwell's report of his
discourse with Sir Chas. Wheler about amending the draft of a
memorial for reparation to be made to the planters in St. Chris-
topher's, viz., Having on the 5th and 6th instant exposed to Sir Chas.
Wheler's amendments the draft of the memorial which lies before
their Lordships, Sir Charles observed to the 1st Article, That the ill-
usage from the French arose chiefly from their attempt of imposing
an oath of fidelity to the French King, whereof no mention being
made in the capitulation the common people of the English were
so incensed that they left their houses and fled and the French
entered and demolished them. 2, To this must be added that all
contracts being in French the English were ignorant of what they
had signed, and in some cases the French proceeded by threats of
imprisonment, as in Freeman's case when he refused to sign.
3, Stet. 4, The word " Plantation " is not so proper as the words
" on the English part of the island." 5, Add, That the said delay
was the utter ruin of the English interest, in regard that despairing
of ever returning they settled themselves in other parts of the
world and in that time the value of ameliorations might exceed
the principal ; plantations not sold were so overrun with weeds
as to be less valuable than new ground, and the mean profits were
detained. 6, He remembers no such case. 7, M. Colbert and
Lord Arlington agreed to refer meliorations to the parties con-
cerned, with the Commissioners to assist ; and M. de Baas and
Sir Charles agreed that surveys should be taken of the meliorations
and pejorations, and if the parties and Commissioners could not
agree the decision was to be left to them, but through the discoid
of the Commissioners such surveys were delayed and never pre-
sented. 8, Instead of " publication of the Articles of Breda," must
be said, " publication of liberty to be given to the negroes to come
in and make their choice." 9, M. de Baas and the French Commis-
sioners always insisted on having the advantage of the double
contracts, i.e., it seems that by the style of France there is always
mentioned a greater value paid in the contract than is really re-
ceived, that the seller might less think of redeeming his lands, but
th,e English not holding themselves obliged to pay more than the just
260 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
value received were kept off, and this contention wasted the time
till the year and a day had elapsed. 10, Nothing of this hap-
pened during his time. On the other points of the memorial
Sir Charles added to the 1st, That to the best of his memory none
were refused their lands, but the goods thereon and the wastes
committed were the points contested, and are therefore fit to be
separated, for the lands whose proprietors did not return, were yet
restored, and called the King's lands and at the King's disposal.
2, To this he queries, How shall any adjustment be made when all
the English say their estates are worsted, and the French that they
are improved ? 4 and 5, M. de Baas agreed to both points, but
said, " Take both the persons if you can find them who did the
wrongs, and the things you inquire after." 6, This being subject
to replies and delays might be as well laid aside. 7, He advises
that the particular means of adjusting differences be set down and
negotiated here rather than referred to agreement there, which
will not easily be ever consented to. 8, From whom is such satis-
faction to be expected ? For the French planters impute those
wastes, &c., to hurricanes and time, and though the English have
been eye-witnesses of many of their spoils, they cannot bring the
proof home to particular persons ; and if the French King should
impose reparation on the French planters, he does not think them
able to make any tolerable satisfaction. Thus much Sir Charles
said he had done in obedience to their Lordships' commands and
in the way they were going ; but that in a paper of his own he
would present what he thought most expedient for the security of
St. Christopher's and the other Leeward Islands. 13 pp. [Col.
Entry Bh, XLVL, No. 14-27.]
Sept. 16-17. 672. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations.
Whitehall. Sept. 1 6. Letter from Mr. Cranfield and the other Commissioners
of Surinam of 25th June, setting forth the good progress of their
business, read and well approved. Their Lordships find a want of
maps, and the account given in by Mr. Slingsby ordered to be
inspected, and the things paid for, for their Lordships' use. Letter
of 2nd instant from Sir Chas. Wheler read in part, being new
animadversions on memorial about St. Christopher's, and a new
draft made his own way ; but their Lordships, not liking the
matter, did not read far, but read again his amendments of 7th
July. Their Lordships' reflections thereon. It was proposed to
have the opinion of Sir Leoline Jenkins and Dr. Lloyd on the
Treaty of Breda, whether any meliorations or reparations are thereby
to be considered.
Sept. 17. Ordered, that Sir Chas. Wheler and Mr. Slingsby attend the
Lords to sihow what proofs there were to support the complaint
in the Memorial, &c., and how Sir Charles makes out his observations.
2 pp. [Col Entry Bk., No. CIV., 35, 36.]
Sept. 20. 673. Governor Lord Vaughan to Sec. Sir Joseph Williamson.
Jamaica. Advises receipt from the Commissioners sent to Surinam of a lettei
from his Majesty. About 10 days since arrived three of h(
Majesty's hired ships, with 1,100 or 1,200 whites, blacks, and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 281
1676.
Indians that the Commissioners had removed from Surinam. All
seem exceedingly satisfied with coming hither ; and has, according
to his Majesty's instruction, received them with all the friendship
and kindness possible, allotted them double the land usually
granted, and required all persons to assist them with whatever
they want at moderate rates. Has, on their own desire, trans-
ported the poorest to the leeward part of the Island, where the
Surinamers which came with Gen. Bannister are already settled ;
the more wealthy intend to disperse themselves, and being so well
furnished with slaves and all other necessaries for planting, will in
a short time make very considerable plantations, and be much
better settled than ever they were at Surinam. Has received from
the Commissioners list of the persons put aboard the Hercules and
America, and since they came into harbour has mustered all that
were brought. Will send by the next ships fair lists of both. The
flyboat Henry and Sarah left the Commissioners in the river of
Surinam, and came without any Orders or Despatches, so no list
was taken of her passengers till her arrival there ; she is since sent
down to the westward with those Surinamers desiring to be
transported thither, and on the Master's return his breach of orders
and the whole matter shall be examined, and when the other ships
are unladen he will make up the accounts with the Captains con-
cerning the King's provisions put aboard them, and return duplicates
to the Commissioners of the Navy. Mr. Cranfield, about 4 days
before his arrival, going aboard the America to examine the Captain
concerning the King's provisions to be delivered to the passengers,
and the Mate giving him very unhandsome language, he struck
him with his cane and ran the point of it into his eye, whereof
next day he died ; on complaint whereof Lord Vaughan issued a
Commission for trial of the fact on the Statute of Henry VIII., and
the best gentlemen of the Island being returned of the jury, they
found it chance medley ; for which Mr. Cranfield has sued out a
pardon under the Broad Seal of the Island, and has since himself
complained against some of the Captains, and a poor man that
came from Surinam in his own sloop, for breach of orders and
other misdemeanours ; on examination will send an account and
his opinion thereon, as the King's letter appoints. No ship from
England these 6 weeks, and hopes the next will bring advice of
the receipt of his by Sir T. Lynch. Exceedingly desires to know
how his Majesty and his Royal Highness resent the miscarriage of
Knapman, and his declaring Sir H. M. to be the true cause of it.
Is every day more convinced of his imprudence and unfitness to
have anything to do in the Civil Government, and of what hazards
the Island may run by so dangerous a succession. Sir Henry has
made himself and his authority so cheap at the Port, drinking and
gaming in the taverns, that Lord Vaughan intends to remove
thither speedily himself, for the reputation of the Island and
security of that place, though he pretends it is only to change the
air, having lately had a fever. His Majesty's speedy resolution on
what Lord Vaughan proposed would exceedingly satisfy all the
sober and wealthy people, who are very doubtful of what may
happen in case of his death or absence; in all else they are fully
282
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1676.
satisfied and everybody bent on planting, which will be much
improved by the arrival of these people from Surinam. Expects
great numbers, and some of the best quality from Barbadoes ; and
Col. Freeman, lately come from St. Christopher's, says the people
there are almost quite undone by the hurricanes and the French,
and would all, if they could, remove hither. The Royal Company
have of late very well supplied them with negroes, though at
extraordinary rates, none being sold under 221. per head ready
money. What does the most injury is, that our right of cutting
logwood is not yet determined, so that that trade can neither be
made profitable, nor so governed as to exclude strangers, which
might easily be done were the coast once asserted and affixed to
this Government. At present the New England men reap the
whole profit, and his Majesty receives no Customs for it, and unless
his Majesty's authority be settled there they will, under colour of
their patent, make the trade of most of the Plantations (as they
have their own) independent on that of England, nor will the late
Act of Parliament restrain them. It much imports his Majesty's
interest that this point be timely considered, and possibly this is a
juncture his authority might be easily established, the Indians
being in rebellion against Plymouth and the Massachusetts, and
not like to be reduced this winter. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35,
No. 20.]
Sept. 20. 674. [Mr. Page ?] to [Sec. Sir Jos. Williamson ?] Arrived at
Bay Bulls, St. John's Harbour llth July, 4 weeks after departure from
Newfoundland. p lvmouth> f ound t h e Swan with 40 or 50 merchant ships, and
sailed 3rd Sept. for Bay Bulls to make up their fleet. There are
here 175 ships, which employ 4,309 men in 688 boats, and have
taken 172,000 kentalls, which at 12s. per kentall is 103,200?.,
besides train oil and core fish to the value of 12,872?. The inhabi-
tants are 1,655 men, women, and children, with 277 boats, and
their concerns amount to 47,363?. ; and all or most of the things
laid to their charge by the merchants, desiring their removal,
proved false. If removed they design to settle amongst the French
on the other side Cape de Race. Most of the ships are gone 2 and
3 in company, making a jest of convoy ; so that if Sir John has
30 convoys, believes that will be the most. The French fish to
northward and southward, have 2 men-of-war for convoy, and
rendezvous at Trepassey near Cape de Race ; the St. Malo fleet of
20 considerable ships goes without the men-of-war, and 40 or 50
sail with convoy. It will be the 25th before they sail, the weather
having hindered the fish from curing. Will punctually observe his
commands in the Straits, and would
could not meet with any ship of
Williamson, " R. from Mr. Page." 1
No. 21.]
Sept. 22. 675. Edw. Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to [Sec. Sir Joseph
Port Royal, Williamson]. Their last of J3th August only advised of their
Jamaica, departure from Surinam, without particulars since Capt. Dickenson
left, by reason it is a frequent custom with the Dutch to open
have sent him some fish but
Weymouth. Endorsed by
pp. [Col. Papers. Vol 35,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 283
1675.
letters. The ships being laden and his Majesty's subjects on boaid,
directed the Commanders to issue provisions as ordered by the
Commissioners of the Navy Board and mustered the passengers
in the Hercules and America at the mouth of the river, but the
Henry and Sarah went away without sailing orders and arrived
at Jamaica a week before them. Were forced to consent that the
families of the removers upwards of seven years old should be
victualled from the time of their coming aboard to the day of their
landing, though it was at first 12 years old. On 9th August
before they passed the Fort of Surinam, the Governor sent to
demand all the free Indians on board; but some having volun-
tarily returned, they were demanded again, and all on the Hercules
and America delivered to the Commander of the Snow in the
mouth of the river, yet he protested against carrying them away,
though at request of bis Majesty's subjects who alleged they were
domestics and had lived many years in their families and had
wives and children. Send copy of his protest, and copy of theirs
also, for detaining the Hebrew nation, with list of such as are
willing to transport themselves and estates to Jamaica; others
resolve to go when occasion shall present. On 13th they got over
the Bar. Next day not seeing the Henry and Sarah they sent their
clerk back with the order for delivery of the free Indians and hr
sailing orders, but a small sloop belonging to one Davis, bound
for Jamaica, told them she sailed away in the night. Made their
way direct for Jamaica, where all the removers desiied to go.
Cranfield and others went aboard the America to speak about the
passengers complaining of want of water to Capt. Paxton, who lay
sick, and Thomas Young the Mate behaving rudely, Cranfield
with a bamboo cane went to push him away and unfortunately
ran it into his eye, of which he died. On arrival at Jamaica, 8th
September, he surrendered himself to the Captain-General, and on
the 14th there was a trial and the fact found chance medley. The
passengers on the Henry and Sarah desiring to settle to leeward,
his Excellency ordered the ship to carry them to Blewfield's Bay,
and she is not yet returned ; the America will be unloaded the
21st instant, and the Hercules the 24th. The Commanders not
having yet delivered" the provisions to the passengers, they can give
no account of the sale of the surplusage. Send list of all his
Majesty's subjects and slaves transported in his Majesty's three
hired ships from Surinam, and lists to the Hon. Saml. Pepys
of. those victualled and not victualled. By the first opportunity
Cranfield will come for England. Encloses,
675. I. Demand by P. Versterre, Governor of Surinam, from his
Majesty's Commissioners, that all the free Indians that
are aboard his Majesty's ships may be put on shore to
prevent all the mischiefs that may arise by their carrying
away, from the cruelties the heathens are wont to
practise. Dutch. Surinam, -$ August.
675. II. Translation of preceding. Also answer of the Governor
concerning the Hebrew nation. |-j- Augu-t,
284 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
675. ill. Protest of the English Commissioners against Gov.
Versterre for refusing their demand for the removal of
the Hebrew nation, and free Indians that are domestics to
his Majesty's subjects, having lived many years in their
families. Which being read to the Governor, he sent the
following answer in Dutch, dated T August 1675. Will
always be ready to Jet the Hebrew nation pass when he
shall have received more express orders from his masters,
but meanwhile believes he has satisfied the Commis-
sioners demand in giving leave to all that were free
denizens of England. The Indians he is constrained to
detain from a report spread by their friends that the
Dutch had sold them to the English for slaves, and that
they would revenge it ; so that he continues his protest
that they be delivered, having not yet received them.
- August.
675. IV. Protest of Peter Versterre, Governor of Surinam, against
his Majesty's Commissioners for carrying away the free
Indians. Having desired the Commissioners to put on
shore certain free Indians, and notwithstanding having
notice that there are yet 30 on board designed to be
carried away, which not only contravenes the orders
but may cause the total ruin of the Colony, in that their
friends (people without reason) will accuse the Dutch to
have sold them to the ships, whereby nothing else is to
be expected by the remaining nation but an utter
destruction, he protests that the Commissioners carry
them not away, and demands (in case this be not
effectual) satisfaction for all mischiefs and bloodshed that
may ensue. (In Dutch.) To which the Commissioners
answered, That part of the free Indians had been sent on
shore, and if any more were on board they should be
delivered ; that they would make publication on board
that if any person privily conceals them, it must lie at
their doors, and would use all care to give compliance
in this or anything else his Honor should demand.
^ August.
675. v. A list of such persons of the Hebrew nation willing to
transport themselves and estates to Jamaica but hindered
by the Governor, yet humbly request another occasion,
numbering 10 with 322 slaves. Several others resolve to
go when occasion shall present.
675. VI. Publication by his Majesty's Commissioners (for Suri-
nam). Having received an Order from Governor Versterre,
demanding all the free Indians from on board his Majesty's
hired ships, and being informed that some are privily
concealed on board, they strictly require the Commanders
and all his Majesty's subjects not to carry away any free
Indians, as they will answer the contrary (except one free
Indian belonging to Mr. Arthur Norris to which the
Governor gave his concession), ordering them to deliver
all said Indians to the Commander of the Snow, who
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 286
1G75.
has orders from the Governor to receive them so soon as
the ships should come to anchor over the Bar at the mouth
of the river of Surinam.
675. VII. A list of his Majesty's subjects and slaves transported in
his Majesty's ship Hercules from Surinam to Jamaica,
viz. : Andrew and Dolorosa Knight, Ferdinando and
Lucretia Woodstock, John and James Jennison, John
Lawtis, John Home, Thomas Sparkes and Thomas
Abraham, Christians, with 64 slaves (the names are given) ;
Major Rich. Scott, with 33 slaves ; Hierome and Jane
Westhorpe, and John and Mary Creamour, Christians,
with 50 slaves ; George Gordon, and George Gordon, junr.,
and Mary Hawkins, Christians, with 26 slaves ; Samuel
and Eliza Tare, and Benj. Holeman, Christians, with 12
slaves ; Arthur and Mary Norris, John and James English,
Mary Norris, junr., Grace Norris, Daniel Ohane, Will.
Johnson and John Tayler, Christians, with 44 slaves ;
Matthew Eliza Hide and Mary Eliza Hide, junr., Christians,
with 35 slaves ; Dorothy Wayle and Eliza Render,
Christians, with 83 slaves ; Arthur Gaily, Robert Hudson
and George Tindall, Christians, with 42 slaves ; William,
Mary, William, Philip and John Yearworth, Christians,
with 15 slaves, belonging to Aaron de Silva; Isaac de la
Parr, Overseer, and Gabriell de Solis, with 33 slaves ;
William and Dorothy Boone, James and Joane Grimes,
Samuel Earle, and Anne Matthews, Christians. Total,
53 Christians and 449 slaves. List of those transported
in his Majesty's hired ship America to Jamaica, viz. :
Mary Urpith, Adam and Dorothy Braythwaite, John
and Sarah Urpith, and Robert Hurtly, Christians, with
77 slaves ; William and Jane Davidson, Tho. and Anne
Robinson, Christians, with 12 slaves ; Elias and Jane Ely,
Mrs. Sarah Ely, Elias Ely, Sarah Ely, and John Sherwood,
Christians, with 34 slaves ; Oliver and Jane Hampton, and
Philip Shaw, Christians, with 37 slaves ; John and Penena
Horton, John Hortonjuur., and Nich. Colegate, Christians,
with 19 slaves; William and Mary ^mith, William
Thomas, Richard, Sarah, and Mary Smith, Joane Starky,
Saml. Gates, Christians, with 25 slaves ; Peter Manton,
Margaret and Eliza Manton, and Solvodore, Christians, with
16 slaves; John, Katherine and Mary Wood ward, Christians,
with 8 slaves ; John Spencer, with 8 slaves ; Walter and
Amy Greene, Christians, with 2 slaves ; Edward and Sarah
Saule, Christians, with 26 slaves ;. Henry, Mary and John
Long, and Henry Robinson, Christians, with 1 1 slaves ;
Henry and Mary Ferrers, Mary Ferrers, Jeremy,
Katherine and Mary Chase, Christians, with 20 slaves ;
William, Martha, Mary, and Martha Vaughan, Sarah
Viccers, James Baker, Miugo and his wife, Christians,
with 15 slaves ; John, Margett, John and Thomas
Pearson, Sarah Holland, Samuel Bacon, Rich., Eliza,
John and Mary Armstrong, Christians, with 38 slaves j
286 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1676.
John, Joane, and John Jones, and John Rose, Christians,
with 1 slave ; Ralph and Rebecca Larkin, and Ralph
and Rebecca Larkin, with 3 slaves ; Thomas and Frances
Gamball, Christians, with 3 slaves ; Roger, Bridgett,
and John Phillips, Christians, with 2 slaves ; William
and Eliza Slade, William Slade, and Grace Slade, Christians,
with 10 slaves; William and Eliza Whaley, and Richard
Loftus, Christians, with 4 slaves ; Richard and Prudence
Dunn, Christians, with 2 slaves ; John and Anne Hanes,
Sarah and Patience Haxby, and Rebecca de la Ware,
Christians ; Eliza Sutton, Anne Larke, and Dorothy
Lowe, with 1 slave ; William and Margett Carpenter,
and Charles Bray, Christians, with 1 slave ; Robert and
Alice Browne, Christians, with 2 slaves ; Thomas Cotton,
Christian, with 1 slave ; Andrew, Alice and Hierome
Clifford, and John and Alice Harwood, Christians ; Joyce,
John, and Sarah Biggs, Christians, with 3 slaves. Total,
116 Christians and 381 slaves. List of those transported
in his Majesty's hired ship Henry and Sarah, viz. : Anne
Waller, daughter and a little negro, with -1 2 negroes and
2 Indians ; Charles Graves, wife, 2 children, maid, and 3
little negroes, with 16 negroes and 6 Indians ; Austin
Gabriell, maid, and 2 little negroes, with 13 negroes and
2 Indians ; Will. White, wife, daughter, 3 little negroes
with 14 negroes and 1 Indian ; Will. Pauer, wife and
son ; Teag Matemarah and wife, with 1 negro ; Alexr.
Godding, wife, 2 children, and 4 little negroes, with 10
negroes ; Alex. Wilson, wife, child and 1 little negro, with
4 negroes and 4 Indians ; Henry Pearson, wife and 2
children; Edwd. Wooton, with 2 little negroes, and 5
negroes and two Indians ; Thomas Wright, wife and maid,
with 4 negroes ; Peter Clerke, wife and sister, with three
negroes and 3 Indians ; [Will. Davis, wife and child, John
Smith, John West wood, and William Fowler, with 19
slaves belonging to Davis]. The names in brackets are
not in this List, but appear in another List, No. 677 I.
Will. Creek, wife and 4 children ; Will. Heath, wife,
3 children, and 2 little negroes, with 4 negroes and
3 Indians ; John Morris, 2 little negroes, and 4 negroes ;
Abrah. Baker ; John Chambers, wife and 2 children,
with 6 negroes and 1 Indian ; Edward Edy, wife, 2 children,
2 whites and 5 negroes ; Alex. Simms, 2 little negroes,
and 5 negroes ; Samuel Pincheon, wife, 2 children, and
1 negro ; Thomas Scattergood, a child, and 1 negro ;
George Mascall, a little negro, 3 negroes and 2 Indians ;
Samuel When, wife, 1 negro and 1 Indian ; Robert Gheste,
with one Indian ; Stephen Fisher, wife, 1 child, 2 little
(sic) 3 negroes and 1 Indian ; Leonard Pollard, with
1 negro ; Saml. Starling, wife, 2 negroes and 2 Indians ;
George Carter, Daniel Young, Isaac Richardson, Will,
Ruddyford, Tho. Foster with 3 negroes, and James
Watkins ; Total 81 Christians, 31. Indians, and 1 20 negroes j
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
287
Sept 22.
Port Royal,
Jamaica.
Sept. 22.
Port Royal,
Jamaica.
Sept. 23.
1675.
Total in the 3 ships (and sloop), 1231. Also a general
list of the English that depart from Surinam to Jamaica
with the number of their slaves. Together, 25 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 22, 22 i.-VH. ; also Col
Entry Bh., Vol. LXXVIII.pp. 106-118.]
676. Edw. Cranfield and Marcus Brandt to Secretary Williamson.
Duplicate of preceding letter, omitting the lust paragraph ; and of
all the enclosures. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 23, 23. I.- VII. ;
also Col Entry Bk., No. 78, pp. 119-131.]
677. Edw. Cranfield to (Sir Robt. Southwell ?). Almost word
for word the same as the letter of Edw. Cranfield and Marcus
Brandt of this date, except the last clause about enclosures. Has
brought from Surinam 250 whites, and 980 slaves. Endorsed,
" Read at the Comm tee the 6th of Octob r 1678." Encloses,
677. I. Another list of the names of his Majesty's subjects and
their slaves transported from Surinam to Jamaica in his
Majesty's hired ships Hercules and America. The Henry
and Sarah going away from us at Surinam without her
sailing orders could not take a particular list of the names,
but the whole number of whites and slaves is 232. Together,
13 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. 35, Nos. 24, 24 I. ; also Col
Entry Bk, No. LXXVIII., 132-135.]
678. The King to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes.
Understands by his letter of 30 June last to Sec. Coventry
that six persons have been tried for the murder of Capt. Swanley,
Master of a ship bound for Barbadoes, five of whom were found
guilty and three executed, but William Knowles and William
Sherlock reprieved, the one only assisting to throw Capt.
Swanley overboard when dead, and the other being at the helm
pushed him back to prevent his misfortune. His Majesty has
thought fit to issue his pardon under the great seal to said Knowles
and Sherlock, and the Governor is authorised to set them at
liberty on giving security for their good behaviour in future.
l\ pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. 110, pp. 77-78.]
Sept. 23. 679. Sir Robert Southwell to Mr. Bertie. The Committee for
Spring Gardens. Plantations propose two queries : (1) whether all Governors abroad
have taken the oath to perform what the Act of Navigation requires,
and before whom they do it ; (2) whether all such Governors return
the bonds they are to take according to the Act, and who have
omitted the same. Desires the answer of the Comuilssioners of the
Customs. [Col Entry Bk., No. 97, p. 21 .]
Sept. 23. 680. Certified copy of charter party between Richard Hall,
merchant, of New York, and the owners of the ship Nevis, factor
about 100 tons, riding at anchor in Rhode Island, and William
Dervall and William Williams, merchants, of New York, for a
voyage to Jamaica and the Bay of Campeachy to take in eighty
tons of logwood for New York or Boston, as shall be agreed,
1 large sheet. [Col Papers, Vol. 35, No. 25.]
288 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1675.
Sept. 24. 681. Minutes of the Committee of Trade and Plantations. The
Whitehall. Minutes of April 22, May 1, and May 24, read, in order to open
the state of Messrs. Mason and Gorges' pretensions in New England,
but the business put off to a time of more leisure. The memorial
for redress in the business of St. Christopher's to be prepared with
haste, and Sir Chas. Wheler and Mr. Slingsby to be called on for
the vouchers of the many allegations therein specified touching the
injuries of the French. Discourse on the return of Mr. Cooke from
Madrid without any redress of injuries sustained in the West
Indies ; and letter read from Sir W. Godolphin showing how-
indifferent the Spaniards appear to our friendship or enmity owing
to the late proceedings in Parliament, and that foreign ministers
there testify as much in reference to insolencies from those
of Ostend, and the privateers of Biscay, and injuries suffered
from the Spaniards. Report by Mr. Secretary of a letter from the
Duke of Courland, desiring his Majesty's protection touching his
pretensions to the island of Tobago, but the Lords said it was not
fit for his Majesty's concern if the Duke would not hold it under
his Majesty. Proposal to have Greeks from Morea, &c., to plant
in the West Indies, discoursed and laid aside as a thing of charge.
Copy of Colonel Stapleton's letter of 18th February last, touching
the exploit in San Dominico, to be given to Colonel Warner in the
Tower. Complaint of Sir R. Southwell that it was impossible for
him to make searches up and down in offices, and put together the
patents and charters of all the plantations, &c., as directed on 24th
May last, without some help, his Majesty to be moved for some
allowances. Mr. Sec. Williamson had a list of said patents, and
where to find them, and was about some narrative which when
perfected he would expose to the Lords. 3 pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. CIV., 37-39.]
Sept. 28-29. 682. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. An Act for the
Settlement of the Militia passed., Ordered, that the Treasurer pay out
of the excise on liquors to the gunner, mate, and matrosses of Charles
Fort, 15,840 Ibs. of Muscovado sugar for salary ; also to Thomas
Harte, 2,880 Ibs. of sugar, gunner of Willoughby's Fort; and that he
give credit to James Houlsworth, merchant, for the duty of 9 pipes,
2 hhds. of Madeira wine, turned eagar and unsaleable. Resolved,
on petition of Thomas Cullam in relation to hire of his boats in the
war time in 1666 and 1667, that the Assembly are in no way
concerned therein. Resolved, that the presenting of something to
his Excellency for his charge of holding the last general sessions,
and for his support in the Government, lie under consideration till
the morning; as also an Order from his Excellency and Council for
payment of the charge of the Commissioners sitting upon examina-
tion of negroes. Motion that the Assembly again address his
Majesty touching the 4| per cent., setting forth the great and
general calamity the island lies under by the late dreadful
hurricane, to the destruction not only of their buildings, but crops
of cnnes ; as also for a supply of servants from Scotland to
strengthen the island against the outrages of the negroes, laying
before his Majesty their late plotted rebellion ; and to move that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
289
1675.
Sept. 29.
April 6
to
Sept. 29.
y 7i843,
the late Custom laid on the growth of Barbadoes transpoited <o
New England may be taken off, the island already suffering great
scarcity, the former trade in provisions from thence being much
decayed by reason of that impost.
Ordered, that the Treasurer credit John Strode and John Tibbotts
on their accounts of Excise for the duty of six pipes of Madeira
wine turned eagar and unsaleable ; also that he pay to lis
Excellency 200,000 Ibs. of sugar out of the imposition on liquors
imported, presented by the country for the support of the Govern-
ment, and that the concurrence of his Excellency and Council be
desired. Adjourned till Tuesday come 7 weeks. 3 pp. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. XIII., 193-196.]
683. Edwd. Cranfield's Narrative of Proceedings upon his
Majesty's Commission and Instructions of the 28th Mar. 1675, for
the bringing of his subjects from Surinam. Sailed 6th Apr. from
the Downs, and from Torbay on the 12th ; met some ships on 21st,
and wrote by them to Sec. Williamson, as follows (see ante, No. 527) ;
anchored at Madeira 27tb, where the Governor refused to return
gun for gun, and declared that unless they would enter the King's
ship as a merchantman they should not have so much as a drop of
water, whereupon they resolved to make the best of their way to
Surinam. The merchants of the place being debarred coming off
to them sent the following letter to the King's Commissioners,
signed by John Shattocke, Madeira, 27 April. t Cannot express
their resentment for the unmannerly behaviour of their unworthy
Governor, who hath a second time rejected his Majesty's concern
that have touched at the island to buy refreshment. Have some
days since dispatched their complaints both for Portugal and
EngUnd, and hope for a speedy redress, for he did the same with
Lord Vaughan and Sir Thos. Modyford. Has not spoke with the
Governor himself since Lord Vaughan departed, for whose sake
the Governor is continually molesting him ; has forced away one of
his servants, limited him a time for stay on the island, yet will not
let him compose his affairs, nor pay him a penny of above 5,000
crowns he has owed him these two years. The answer of Edw.
Cranfield, dated the same day, thanks them for their generous
resentment of their reception by the Governor, and he is not less
concerned to hear of their barbarous treatment, of which he has
given account to the Secretary of State. Thanks them for their
letter of credit to the Canaries, but having no orders is resolved
not to touch there though they come short of water. Then follows
copy of Cranfield's letter to Sec. Williamson (see No. 542). Sa : led
the same night, and 14-th May met two ships, and wrote to the
Secretary of State with duplicate of their former letters (see No.
560). Arrived at the river of Surinam the -^ June, and dispatched
a letter to the Governor giving notice of their arrival and desiring
him to send a pilot ; copy of their letter. The -^th June Cran-
field and Brandt taking with them all the letters from the States-
General, the Prince of Orange, and the States of Zealand, landed
at Paramaribo, the residence of the Governor, who received them
with civility, and had a list of those that had then given in their
I
290 COLONIAL PAPEKS.
1675,
names to remove, by John Trott, who had directions in case of
Capt. Baker's death, who died before the Advice boat arrived, to
execute his Majesty's instructions. The next day the Governor
published at Paramaribo and Toororica the orders from the States-
General, and on -^ June a Proclamation, signed by Governor
Versterre and the King's Commissioners, appointing the 30 June/
10 July for deciding all differences concerning debts between the
Dutch and Hebrew nation and English ; ordering them to draw
their accounts of debtor and creditor between themselves, dis-
counting one debt with another as much as possible ; and giving
notice to all that will depart that his Majesty's ships will make no
longer stay than 4 or 5 weeks from their arrival. The Governor
having granted permission to confer with his Majesty's subjects,
the King's Commissioners sent a letter to acquaint them with the
provisions his Majesty had made for their transportation and
settlement, and to desire them to repair on board the America.
Copy of said letter, dated 9 June 1 675". Afterwards they visited in
person the several divisions, to encourage them to embark and inform
themselves of each man's case that might fall under debate at the
General Court, and found they would all be in readiness to embark
the 26 July/5 Aug. Took care to avoid menaces which was also
observed by the Governor, but some of the Dutch raised a report
that they were to be carried to Providence, next the Bahamas,
which a little startled the common people. Their demands con-
cerning debts owing by the Dutch, and the cattle, provisions, and
other goods taken during the war were fairly complied with. The
Jews who were inhabitants at the time of surrender, having de-
manded transportation with his Majesty's subjects, the Governor said
his orders were only to let the English go, and produced a Dutch
translation of the Articles of the late Treaty ; but they told him
they were to be governed by the Latin original, which used the
word subject, which the Jews were to his Majesty before the
articles of surrender, and that Scotch and Irish might be as
reasonably detained as Jews; whereupon he made publication that
they were free to depart, and se 
