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CONTENTS,
PAGE
iv
CORRIGENDA
v
PREFACE
1
CALENDAR
313
GENERAL INDEX
Paije 4, lints 31, 32. Delete words repeated [and . . . .
causes.]
,, 19, line J) from bottom, for L. Bourn read 8. Bourn.
,, 32, line 23, for W. Spots wood msrrZ A. Spotswood.
,, 52, fo'we 21, for Whitney read Whiting.
,, 66, line 11 from bottom, for 43 read 42.
66, last line, for 868 read 898 ; awe? arfd French.
,, 108, line 20, for Arpil raw? April.
,. 189, line 5, /row bottom, for pleplexitys read perplexitys.
,, 211, line IS, for Signed read Endorsed.
,, 215, line 5 from bottom, for Barbados read Bermudos.
248, line 29, for 38 read 28.
278, line 33, /or future rer/rf failure.
,, 284, ft/?e 34, for revised read revived.
V.
PREFACE,
1.
GENERAL.
Many matters of high importance in the sphere of
Colonial administration occur in the ensuing pages.
The handling of the situation in the Leeward Islands
after the murder of Governor Parke ; Col. Gary's rebellion
and the Indian rising in North Carolina ; the deadlock
created in New Jersey by the opposition in the Council ;
the intransigent attitude of the Assembly of New York
and the consequently contemplated action by Parliament ;
these and other such questions would by themselves
render the year under review notable enough. They
are overshadowed, however, by two other events of
wider and more permanent significance ; the failure
of the Expedition against Canada, and the preliminary
negotiations for Peace.
The Peace of Utrecht is one of the great landmarks
of European History. Few transactions of like moment
have given rise to controversy so bitter and so lasting.
Whatever may be the merits or demerits of the case for
entering upon that much debated Peace at that particular
moment, it can hardly be disputed that the two weakest
links in the vast and complicated chain of arrangements,
territorial and commercial, known as the Treaty of
Utrecht, were, from the point of view of the British
Empire, those concerned with the Newfoundland Fishery
and the French occupation of Cape Breton. " Against
these substantial gains," wrote Lord Morley in his
life of Walpole, after enumerating the advantages
obtained by England, " were undoubtedly to be set the
risks of some counterbalancing mischiefs. But the
Wt. 26089, C.P. a.
Vi. PREFACE.
mischiefs never came to pass." The documents pub-
lished in this series will show very plainly, on the contrary,
that the mischiefs came to pass immediately, were the
cause of enormous strife, and continued down to our own
day.
Immediately after the signing of the Treaty, its authors
were denounced as traitors to their country ; and from
that time onwards the belief has been widely held that
the Cape Breton arrangement was the outcome of bribery.
(v. for example, Douglass' Summary, 1760, quoted by
Senator J. S. McLennan, Louisbourg from its foundation
p. 1.)
That St. John gave more than he need have given,
and took less than he might have taken, can scarcely
be denied in view of the military position resulting from
Marlborough's victories before the fall of the Whigs.
But the suspicion that his concessions were bought is
not, I believe, supported by a shred of evidence, and a
document published in the present volume is to some
extent evidence to the contrary. It fitts in with what we
know of the negotiations for " Matt's Peace " as revealed
by Prior's correspondence with St. John, the recently
published Portland Papers, and De Torcy's accounts of
the matter. The document referred to is No. 365. It
demonstrates at least two things ; first, that St. John
acted with his eyes open, and secondly, that in approach-
ing the problem of whether or not he should concede to
the French " a general right to fish and to dry their fish
in the Sea of Newfoundland and on that coast, as they
have hitherto done, together with a liberty of settling
and fortifying on the Island of Cape Breton," he acted
openly and above-board. This was in April, 1712. It
was then a question of bargaining amongst the Plenipo-
tentiaries at Utrecht. The quid pro quo offered was that
the French should make " an absolute cession of Nova
Scotia with Annapolis Royal, and of the Island of New-
foundland with Placentia." It was also suggested " that
all the fortifications in Newfoundland should be demol-
ished, and that no others be suffered to be erected there,
or in any of the adjacent islands." St. John ( No. 365)
asked for the opinion of the Board of Trade and
PREFACE. Vii.
Plantations upon this bargain, and asked for it " as soon
as possible, it being necessary to write abroad upon this
subject at the end of the week." The answer he received
( No. 374) was a clear-sighted one, and can have left him
in no doubt as to the value of the concessions which were
eventually made. If the French retained the privilege
of fishing on the Newfoundland coast and drying on the
shore, they would have the same advantage in the trade
of dry fish as His Majesty's subjects, the Board of Trade
declared, " and the good end of our having Newfoundland
restored to us would be defeated." As to Cape Breton,
that Island had always been esteemed as part of Nova
Scotia, and, considering its situation, the permitting the
French to fortify and settle there would give them the
like advantages as if they were allowed to dry their fish
on Newfoundland or the adjacent islands. The Board of
Trade concluded by stating the boundaries of Nova
Scotia, " which ought to be so described for avoiding
future disputes," and representing that the fortifications
on Newfoundland ought to be maintained ( No. 574).
The concessions which were eventually made were at
least an error of judgment. But the procedure indicated
above is hardly that which would have been pursued by
statesmen or Plenipotentiaries about to sell their country.
Preliminary The negotiations for Peace with France, begun through
s< the agency of the Abbe Gualtier, had been continued by
Matthew Prior, an ex-Commissioner of Trade and
Plantations, on his secret mission to Fontainebleau in
July, 1711. Of the preliminary demands of the British
Government which Prior was then commissioned to
communicate to the French Court (P.R.O. Treaty Papers,
15), those which most nearly concerned the Colonies were
that the Asiento (the right of supplying the Spanish
Colonies with negro slaves) " should be entirely in the
hands of Great Britain ; that Newfoundland should be
entirely given up to the English ; that the trade of
Hudson's Bay should continue in the hands of the French
and English, as they are now ; and that all things in
America should continue in the possession of those they
should be found to be in at the conclusion of the peace."
Concerning these provisions, attention should be drawn
PREFACE.
regarding the first, that in Jamaica, where the Peace was
eagerly welcomed (421), there was a demand for the
recovery of the Asiento trade, which had previously
brought great prosperity to that Island (345). As to
the second, there was as yet no reference to fishing rights
one way or the other. As to the third, the claims of the
Hudson's Bay Company are not yet pressed. Although
the depredations committed by the French in those parts
had been stated by King William as one of the reasons
for the declaration of war, the Treaty of Ryswick had
left the Company worse off than they were before it.
Before the Plenipotentiaries met at Utrecht the Company
once more entered their claim, stating their case and
demanding not only reparation for damages but also
that the French should surrender all pretention to the
Streights and Bay and abandon their settlements there
(219 i.). They explained their demands in detail to the
Council of Trade (300), who reported in their favour
(326).
The last of St. John's " private propositions " involved
not only the retention of the French part of St. Christo-
phers, and of Nova Scotia and Annapolis Royal, but also,
no doubt it was hoped, the retention of Canada, if the
expedition under General Hill should meet with the
expected success. The French, on the other hand, might
be supposed to look for some compensation if the expedi-
tion under Duguay-Trouin against Brazil should prove
successful. We once more catch a few glimpses of that
expedition in these pages (pp. 15, 48, 49).
From other quarters the acquisition of Moville, as well
as Montreal and Quebec, was enthusiastically urged
(440).
When Prior had brought De Torcy to the necessary
stage of agreement over these preliminary demands,
the scene of negotiations was transferred to London at
the end of July, and still with the utmost secrecy.
By the 17th September agreement had practically
been reached. The preliminaries were on the eve of
being signed, when the question of the Newfoundland
Fishery was again raised. In haste to conclude the
Peace, upon which all their hopes depended, Ministers
PREFACE. IX.
decided that the question should be referred to the
Congress, but they conceded to the French the right of
drying their fish. Thus a sore was left open, which was
to prove a source of trouble for two centuries.' Before
the end of the year the hand of the Tory Peacemakers
was greatly strengthened by the publication of Swift's
Conduct of the Allies. In December Marlborough was
dismissed, and the creation of twelve peers gave to the
Ministry the majority required in the Upper Chamber.
Peace J n January the Plenipotentiaries met at Utrecht. The
at utrecht. Council of Trade and Plantations soon called attention
to the necessity of fixing the boundaries of Canada
(Feb., 1712. Nos. 326, 385). It was in April that St. John
consulted them about Cape Breton and the Newfoundland
Fishery (365, 373 i., 374), and a fortnight later he conferred
with the Board upon the question of the New England
Fishery, having himself proposed the attendance of
Colonel Nicholson and the New England Merchants
interested therein (386). At this time also the whole
question of a Treaty of Commerce with France was
referred to and considered by the Board of Trade (v.
Journal, and Trade Books).
Th > The advent of the projected expedition against Canada
Expedition J r
against and Newfoundland was nailed with loyal addresses of
welcome and gratitude from New York (47), New Jersey
land. (21), Connecticut (93 i.), New Hampshire (40), and
Massachusetts (45). The New Yorkers took the oppor-
tunity to complain of the burden of defence which they
had to bear and the cost of their contribution to the
abortive expedition of the preceding year. The quota
required of them, was, they maintained, excessive, and
they hinted at the superior lot of Proprietary Govern-
ments, whither " the little wealth this Plantation
possessed and the best and most industrious of its
inhabitants were being drained by the ease and indulgence
of those Governments " (48, 96). However, the quotas
of Colonial troops required for the advance by land upon
Montreal were agreed upon by the Congress of Governors
assembled at New London (71, 87 i., 95, 96, 97 iii.).
Pennsylvania, in the event, failed to contribute a man
(95) ; and Governor Hunter was obliged to complete the
x. PREFACE.
New York contingent by enlisting Indians and some of
the German Protestant refugees. The Five Nations,
however, impressed by the sight of the Armada at Boston,
were induced to send 800 men. By the end of August
these troops were on their way to Albany, whence they
were to commence their march to Woodcreek, under
General Nicholson (46 i., 61 i., 95, 95 ii., 96).
The The Naval and Military forces under Admiral Sir
at M Soston U Hovenden Walker and Brigadier General Hill sailed
from Plymouth on the 4th of May and arrived at Boston
on 24th June, The incidents of the voyage are described
(46 i., 61). The troops were disembarked and encamped
on Nodles Island (45, 46 i.), whilst the necessary measures
were being taken for the assembling of the Colonial
contingents, selecting pilots, providing transport for the
troops by sea, boats for the land expedition, and transport
for the siege-train, as well as collecting fresh provisions
from the neighbourhood and salt pork from Maryland
and Virginia (46 i., 61, 94 i., 96).
The season was already late, and the arrival of Col.
Nicholson, who had been sent ahead from England to
prepare the several Governments, had been delayed
till June 8th by adverse weather. There had been little
time, therefore, for progress to be made with the necessary
preparations before the Expedition actually anchored
in Nantasket Bay (46, 61, 61 i., 96).
Meantime a French officer, M. La Ronde, had arrived
at Boston from Placentia with the ostensible object of
proposing a cartel for the exchange of prisoners. He
was detained by Governor Dudley in order that he
might not carry news of the preparations for the proposed
attack upon Canada and Newfoundland. The detention
of the French Agent was probably neither unforeseen
nor undesired. For he was apparently instructed to
make use of his opportunity to dissuade the Colonists
from supporting the Expedition. As to tidings of the
Expedition, both its objects and its strength were known
in France and conveyed to Placentia and Quebec (94 i.,
164).
According to the accounts given by Governor Dudley,
not only was money voted readily and the quota promptly
PREFACE. xi.
supplied by Massachusetts, but everything possible
was done to secure an adequate quantity of provisions
at a reasonable price, and to obtain all the competent
and experienced pilots who could be found in the Province
(44 i.-x., 45 i.-x., 164, 164 i., 165, 167). It is evident,
however, (from the reports of General Hill and his Quarter
Master General, Col. King), that considerable friction
arose, and that great dissatisfaction was felt and shown
at the delays they experienced and at the attitude of
the Colonists both towards deserters and the provision
of supplies (46, 46 i., 61, 61 i.). No one, Col. King
declared, but a man of General Hill's good sense and
good nature could have overcome " the interestedness,
ill-nature and sourness of these people, whose Government,
doctrine and manners, whose hypocrisy and canting
are insupportable." There was nothing for it, he
concluded, but to resume their Charters to the Crown,
and so settle them all under one Government, " with
an entire liberty of conscience " (46). It was just the
fear of this result, he was finally led to suppose, which
could alone account for the reluctancy and ill-nature of
the people, whose object in delaying the Expedition could
only be explained by their dread lest the conquest of
Canada should lead to the establishment of one uniform
Government of America, for the real good of the Colonies
but to the loss of those who profited by their disorderly
disunion (p. 48).
But for the dilatoriness of the Government, the
Expedition might have sailed from Boston a fortnight
sooner than it did. " But all has been done with indo-
lence and indifference with a thousand scruples and delays' '
(46). Yet, notwithstanding losses from deserters, enticed
away by the Colonists, and the lateness of the season,
nothing, thought Col. King, but the difficulty of navigat-
ing the St. Lawrence or the arrival of a French force
from Europe, could prevent their success (46, p. 48).
He severely blamed Col. Nicholson, against whom he
displays considerable animus, for not forwarding the
transports with supplies for New York immediately upon
his arrival (46, 46 i., 61, 61 i.). There were delays in
delivering the fresh provisions required for the troops, and
Xll. PREFACE.
a determined effort was made by the New England
merchants to exact an exorbitant price through the
exchange (61). It was only when continual pressure
had been put upon the Assembly that they were induced
to take measures to fulfil their promises of support and
their duty to their Queen. The details are given in the
Journal of the Expedition written by Col. King for
Brigadier General Hill (46 i., 61 i.), and the papers
sent by Governor Dudley (44 i.-x.)
T tn th^st** ^he Expedition sailed from Nantasket harbour on
Lawrence. July 30th, with high hopes of success (46 i., 61 i., 73, 87,
92). But a fatal blunder had already been committed.
The Colonial troops which accompanied General Hill
were placed under the command of Col. Vetch, the
original author of the scheme. After they had sailed,
and before the fatal event, he wrote to St. John the follow-
ing ominous warning : " The getting up (to Quebec)
by reason of the difficulty of the navigation I looke upon
to be the difficultest part of the enterprise, being myself
if not the only att least the best pilot upon the Expedition,
although none of my province " (71). Yet, in the face of
the well-known difficulty of navigating the St. Lawrence,
and of the shortage of good pilots, Admiral Sir Hovenden
Walker appears to have acted with almost incredible
improvidence. Capt. Cyprian Southack, Commander
of the Massachusetts Province galley, was well known as
one of the most experienced and competent sailors in
those parts. He had been particularly mentioned in
. the Instructions as a suitable pilot for the Expedition
(164 i.). Yet, on the eve of sailing, he was dispatched
to Annapolis Royal to pick up some artillery stores and
marines from the Garrison there, which had already
been sent for once, but which the Deputy Governor,
Sir Charles Hobby, declared that he could not spare
(46 i., 61). Nor was this all. The Admiral had brought
with him from England a French pilot, whom Col.
Vetch, after some experience, took occasion to warn
him was both ignorant and a rogue (175, 175 i., ii., v.).
Vetch was at first invited to show the way to the Fleet
himself, with small vessels. But as he refused to go on
board the Saphire frigate for this purpose, he was
PREFACE. Xlll.
presently ignored. If that plan had been adhered to, he
declares, the disaster could not have happened. As it
was, he followed the Flag at a discreet distance, watching
her course with surprise and foreboding (175 v.). We
have several accounts of the catastrophe which ensued
(92, 92 i.-iii., 94, 94 i., ii., 98, 175 v.). For Fate, so
tempted, exacted the penalty to the full. On the night
of the 22nd of August in a stiff gale nine transports were
dashed to pieces on the north bank of the St. Lawrence,
and the whole Fleet -was within an ace of being involved
in a similar fate among the shoals off the Isle aux Oeufs.
742 lives were lost, including 35 women. On the two
following days the shattered remains of twenty six com-
panies were rescued from the shipwrecks (92, 94 i., ii.).
On the 25th, three days after the disaster, a Council of
War was held. The General and the army officers were
apparently of opinion that they might still continue
the advance (175 ii., v.). But the naval officers, after
consulting a few of the pilots, unanimously resolved that
" by reason of the ignorance of the pilots and the un-
certainty of the currents " it was impracticable to proceed
(92, 92 ii.). Col. Vetch protested, instancing the success
of Sir William Phips' Expedition, which had navigated
the river successfully at a much later season of the year,
without the aid of a single man who had ever been there
before. In response to a challenge, he expressed his
own willingness to point out the way to the Fleet
(175 v.). So dissatisfied was he with the pusillanimity
of the resolution to retreat, that upon returning to his
ship, he wrote a strong letter to the Admiral, begging
him to hold another Council of War and to reconsider
his decision, and urging that the navigation from that
point to Tadousac presented no further difficulty (175 ii.).
Sir Hovenden Walker ignored this suggestion, and there
was now nothing for it but to send an express to recall
Nicholson from his advance upon Montreal, and to retire
to Spanish River, where the Fleet cast anchor on Sept.
4th (92).
The There still remained the possibility of reducing Pla-
abandoneS! centia. Another Council of War was held on the 8th to
consider whether the Instructions for an attack upon that
XIV.
PREFACE.
place on the return from Quebec could be put into
execution. A letter from the Governor of Placentia to
M. Pontchartrain was intercepted and brought in at
this juncture. It seemed to promise invaders a warm
reception. The Council of War unanimously decided
to abandon this design also, fear of bad weather combined
with a shortage of provisions being given as the
reasons. For, after the losses in the river, the
provisions remaining in hand were found to be only
sufficient for ten weeks on- short allowance. But further
supplies were being collected in New England, and
three transports fully laden with salt provisions from
Virginia were expected to join the Fleet from New York
(92, 92 iii., 94 i., 175 v.). Together with their convoy,
H.M.S. Faversham, these transports were eventually lost
off Cape Breton, Oct. 7 (162). A detachment was sent
to Annapolis Royal, to strengthen and relieve the garrison
there ; the remainder of the New England troops were
sent home ; and the Expedition returned ingloriously to
England, Sept. 15th. Some of the troops intended for
Annapolis Royal found their way to Boston and were
there disbanded (92, 92 iii., 94 ii., 175, 175 iii., iv.). The
document 175 iii. is obviously wrongly dated August
for September. The evidence of the pilots was taken and
sent home (165).
The ill effects from the failure of the Expedition
anticipated by Col. King (94) and Governor Dudley
(165), were soon apparent. There was an outbreak of
raids upon the frontiers of New England, New York
and Nova Scotia (162, 175, 229, 296). It was feared,
too, that the loyalty of the Five Nations had been
shaken (296). Addresses for the renewal of the Expedi-
tion were forwarded from New York (162), Massachusetts
Bay (123), and New Hampshire (147), with the hope that
they would not again be required to supply a contingent.
Grant of The bills for the expences of the Expedition were
and payment paid with remarkable promptitude. Lord Dartmouth,
lls> in announcing the decision of the Treasury, expressed
the hope that such punctuality would be an encourage-
ment to everybody to show their zeal for the good of
their country. At the same time the small arms and
Addresses
for its
renewal.
PREFACE. XV.
ammunition which had been designed for the Expedition
were presented to the Governments of New England and
New York, and Lord Dartmouth communicated this
' mark of H.M. concern for her subjects in the Planta-
tions" to the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia (308 311).
Frequent and urgent demands for supplies of stores of
war for the Plantations had given rise to some discussion
at home.
The Board of Ordnance, in response to an enquiry
about the demand of arms and stores for the Leeward
Islands, represented that they had no grant from Parlia-
ment to enable them to satisfy it. If the Islands could
no longer pay for their own arms, then, the Board
suggested, they ought to apply direct to Parliament
(63, 69, 194, 194 i., ii.). The Council of Trade thereupon
made a representation, recommending that an annual
sum should be voted for providing stores for the defence
of the Plantations (313). Virginia, threatened with an
Indian war, was practically destitute of ammunition
(204, p. 113). But when the request for arms and
ammunition for that Colony came to be considered (382 i.,
383, 387), it was objected that there had been grave
abuses in connection with the distribution of such stores,
and that it was " a common practice to sell arms etc.
to those very Indians against whom they were intended
to be employed." The Council of Trade were asked
to consider, therefore, what steps could be taken to pre-
vent such frauds (387, cf. 120). In reply they pointed
out that by the Act of 1684 every Virginian Militiaman
was obliged to provide himself with arms, and also that
when arms were sent from England in 1702 directions
were given that they should be paid for. This had not
been done. It was suggested that, if arms were now
sent to supply the urgent need of the Dominion, they
should only be delivered to such persons as should pay
for the same, and also that the Militia Act should be put
in force (417).
The Navy Apart from trouble arising from the protection of
.. '" th deserters from the Navy, and the difficulty of replacing
West Indies. J ' A i
them, to which frequent reference is made in the accounts
of the Canada Expedition, there is evidence of considerable
XVI.
PREFACE.
Friction
between
Governors
and Naval
Com-
manders.
Trading by
ships of war,
Capture of
Spanish
Galleons.
friction between Governors of Plantations and some
of the Commanders of the Naval ships detailed to act as
guardships in the West Indies. Thus Capt. Norbury
in the Leeward Islands, when requested to take home for
trial some officers concerned in the rising against Parke,
objected that he was not under the command of the
Governor (63, 81, cf. 120). The Governor of Barbados
reported that the great losses of the shipping off the
coasts of that Island from enemy privateers were largely
due to the " little regard the men of war paid to the
orders " of the late President (77). Capt. Constable
presently refused to send a ship to England with French
prisoners whom the Government wished to convey there,
(318, 318 viii., 378 xii.). He also refused to convoy the
merchant fleet upon the General's orders (318, 318 viii.,
.378 xii., 434, 434 i., in.). By their Instructions Governors
were directed not to exercise any authority over the
Captains of the men of war, unless they had a com-
mission from the Admiralty so to do (63, 77, 434).
Another grievance was set forth in a petition by the
leading merchants of New York, who complained that
the trade and navigation of that city was much diminished
by the men of war which, in cruizing to and from the
West Indies, carried cargoes of merchandize and entered
into unfair competition with ordinary traders and
shippers (433 i.). The Council of Trade represented
that this was a dishonourable practice which ought to
be strictly forbidden (438).
The Naval Squadron under Commodore Littleton,
stationed at Jamaica, was constantly on the watch
for an opportunity to pounce on the Spanish galleons
which were reported to be ready to sail from Cartagena.
It was also hoped to intercept the French Squadron
under M. Ducasse, which had been sent to convoy them
(18, 25). Littleton was partly successful. For he
captured some of the galleons, and with them a Spanish
Vice-Admiral. But Ducasse, with the plate, eluded
him (37, 75, 76, 82). The prizes were therefore not so
rich as had been expected. The Spanish Admiral had
been killed, but the Vice-Admiral was captured. He
PREFACE.
XV11.
Spanish
at Lima.
French
refused.
st. John's
proposal for
uniformity
Of ment. m
with the other prisoners was detained by the Governor of
Jamaica in order to secure the release of the English
prisoners at Lima (25, 76, 83). The Governor of the
Spanish coast of St. Domingo, who was captured shortly
afterwards by a Jamaican privateer, was similarly
detained (125, 267).
Besides many prizes taken by privateers on either
side (18, 77 i., 82, 94 i., 186, 378 xi., 335 i., 418, etc.),
Windsor and Weymouth captured the French man of
war Thetis and two rich merchantmen in July, 1711,
after a sharp fight (18, 28). In May, 1712, the guardships
of Virginia and Barbados acting in concert made a rich
haul, taking twelve out of a fleet of seventeen sail of
French merchantmen with stores and ammunition bound
for Martinique, whilst Enterprize captured the man
of war which was convoying them (319, 418). Cartels
^ or ^ e excnan g e of prisoners were proposed to several
Governments by the French. They were generally
refused on the grounds that such interchanges gave
opportunities both for spying and illegal trade, whilst,
in the case of those returned to Martinique, where, the
Governor of Barbados declared, the people lived entirely
by piracy and privateering, such returned prisoners
were back at their trade on the English coasts within a
week (77). We have seen that the officer sent from
Placentia to Boston, ostensibly to propose a cartel, seems
to have been sent really as a spy and French agent to
dissuade the Colonists from supporting the Expedition
against Canada.
A very remarkable passage occurs in a letter from the
* . . ,
Governor of New York. In reply to some enquiries by
St. John, who had asked for his views upon the state of
affairs in the Plantations, Col. Hunter declared outright
that the " British interest in these parts ... is in a bad
state, of which the frequent tumult in all parts, and the
general aversion to the support of Government in most,
are sufficient indications." St. John had hinted at the
desirability of putting all North America under one
uniform scheme of Government (it will be remembered
that it was the fear lest the conquest of Canada would
lead inevitably to a uniform Government throughout
XV111. PREFACE.
America which, in the opinion of Col. King, prompted
New Englanders to attempt to prevent it (p. xi.). Such
a consummation as St. John proposed would, Col.
Hunter agreed, be a sure remedy, but unfortunately it
must be a slow one, and more urgent measures were
necessary. In the Proprietary Governments, the Councils
were a mere cipher, having no share in the Legislature,
and the Governors, being dependent for their daily bread
upon the goodwill of the Assemblies, had been obliged
to make such concessions, that the Crown would pay dear
for much trouble and no dominion if they were purchased
and continued upon the present footing. The neigh-
bourhood of Colonies in which the Assemblies were almost
all-powerful stirred the ambition of those which were
under the more immediate Government of the Crown.
They took the " Connecticut scheme " as their model,
and by starving their Governors, refusing adequate
supplies, and endeavouring to restrict the powers of the
Councils, were aiming at establishing themselves on the
same basis as those Chartered and Proprietary Govern-
ments which, they conceived, were better off than them-
selves. They had but one short step to take then
towards complete independance. Hunter concludes :
" A greater assertor of Liberty, one at least that under-
stood it better than any of them, has said, that as
Nationall or Independant Empire is to be exercised by
them that have ye proper ballance of Dominion in the
Nation, soe Provinciall or Dependant Empire is not to
be exercised by them that have the ballance of dominion
in the province, because that would bring the Govern-
ment from Provinciall and Dependant to Nationall
and Independant. Which is a reflection that deserves
some consideration for the sake of another from ye same
person to wit, that ye Colonies were infants, sucking their
mother's breasts, but such as if he was not mistaken,
would weane themselves when they came of age." (pp.
103, 104, No. 250).*
Hunter, of course, in writing thus was thinking more
* The passage in question is quoted, with some verbal inaccuracies, from
James Harington's political romance, The Commonwealth of Oceana. I am
indebted to Professor A. P. Newton for his help in placing this quotation.
PREFACE.
XIX.
Reaction of
political
ideas and
events.
Cornbury
and the
German
Protestant
Refugees.
particularly of New York and New Jersey, where he was
in the thick of a critical constitutional struggle.
Elsewhere, as for instance in Carolina, the evil effects
of the chaos and confusion resulting from incompetent
Proprietary government were sufficiently evident to
the inhabitants to render them anxious to exchange
such chartered freedom for the greater security of the
neighbouring Dominion of Virginia (p. 221). But, in
general, the same motives may be assumed to underly
the same manoeuvres, which were being executed by the
Assemblies in other Governments, not only on the
Continent, but also in Barbados, Jamaica and the Leeward
Islands. The records printed in this Calendar demon-
strate that the progress of political ideas, whether
inspired by the writings of Sir Harry Vane or another,
marched with equal steps in America and the West Indies.
The reaction of the Colonies to political developments
at Home was also remarkably close and immediate.
Attention has been called to this phenomenon in the
Preface to the previous volume. In the present one we
have fresh instances of it. The sudden change of the
Ministry induced the Assembly of New Jersey, according
to Dr. Coxe (pp. 9, 10), to withdraw an address which they
had prepared representing their grievances against the
late Governor, Lord Cornbury. Cornbury himself, now
third Earl of Clarendon, entered once more into the arena
of Colonial affairs. He was given office in the new Tory
Ministry as First Commissioner of the Admiralty, and
was invited by Harley, the Lord High Treasurer, to
report upon Governor Hunter's estimate of the sum
required for the subsistence of the German Protestant
Refugees whom he had settled in New York. Hunter
had suggested that 15,000 a year for two years would
be needed before the Palatines could make their own
living by manufacturing naval stores. Cornbury, of
course, seized the opportunity to torpedo the whole
scheme and to embarrass his successor. To continue
their subsistence for two years would, he suggested,
merely encourage the Palatines in laziness and enrich
Livingston. He also threw doubt upon Hunter's boasted
economy (193, 193 i.). The replies made on Hunter's
XX. PREFACE.
behalf, together with his accounts, enabled the Council
of Trade to urge the continuance of the scheme upon the
basis he had proposed. Hunter had pledged his own
credit deeply in order to carry on the settlement of the
Palatines in accordance with the Instructions he had
received. He was as good and honest a Governor as
Cornbury had been a bad and corrupt one. But Hunter
was a Whig, and Cornbury apparently had the ear of the
Tory Minister (206, 210, 290).
T1 ?e Board w e have now reached the beginning of a period
when enormous delays are revealed in dealing with the
dispatches of Colonial Governors by the Council of Trade
and Plantations. The reasons for such delays were, it
may be suggested, twofold. In the first place, the
elaborate and intricate commercial questions which arose
in the course of the negotiations for the Treaty of Utrecht
were usually referred to the Board of Trade. The whole
case for a Commercial Treaty with France was explored
by them during the months now under review (v.
Board of Trade Journal}. The solution of these problems
involved the Commissioners and their small staff in an
immense amount of urgent business, to which the volumes
of the Colonial Office Records relating to Trade matters
at this period, now preserved at the Public Record Office,
bear most ample and interesting testimony. Plantation
business was therefore necessarily postponed. A second
cause will presently begin to operate. This was the
uncertainty of the political issue. For before long, when
Bolingbroke was manoeuvring towards a Legitimist
restoration, the substitution of " honest " men for those
of Hanoverian principles began. It was not only in
the army that officers of the " right " principles were
appointed by the Tories to military posts of importance
on the eve of the coup d? etat which they never struck,
but a similar substitution also began, or was prepared, in
the case of Colonial Governorships, and civil servants, of
the Commissioners of Trade and their capable and long-
trusted Secretary, William Popple. The effect of such
uncertainty of status would naturally be paralysing.
Case of A case in point is a letter written by Lord Archibald
Creagh and Hamilton, Governor of Jamaica, in which reference was
made to the case of one David Creagh. Merchant
PREFACE.
and supercargo of a sloop from Barbados he had been
committed on a charge of High Treason for trading with
the Queen's enemies, and sent to England for trial.
The witnesses against him were not sent home at the
same time owing to an oversight on the part of the
Commodore of the Jamaica Squadron who carried them
off with him on a cruize (423, 423 vi.). This letter was
not read at the Board of Trade till twelve months after
its receipt, a delay which led to some confusion.
-^ n ^ e course ^ correspondence with the Treasury,
the Secretary of the Board states that, in spite of frequent
reminders, Governors of Plantations on the Continent
had wholly failed to make returns to the Council of
Trade of the public revenue and expenditure. They
had, he declared, received " only some few from Jamaica."
This was certainly an over-statement of the case. He
refers for further information to the Auditor General,
William Blathwayt. Students of Colonial History wish
that they could follow his advice. But what has become
of the papers of that industrious official ? (84, 99).
Replies to A circular letter was presently dispatched to Governors,
instructions . . . ^ . L . .
demanded, requiring their observance ot the Article requiring them
to render half-yearly accounts, as well as other articles
of their Instructions which they had omitted to fulfil
Acts of (132 142). At the same time copies of two recent Acts
to be of Parliament affecting the Colonies were forwarded for
publication, the Act for the encouragement of trade to
America, and the Act for the preservation of white and
other pine-trees.
Salary of The salary of the Commissioners was two and a half
in arrears, years in arrears by Lady Day, 1712 (159, 367). The
Board suggested that a lump sum of 400 should be paid
to their Secretary annually for defraying the incidental
expenses of the office, apart from postage (217), but
New this suggestion was not adopted in the new Commission
Commission. /OO1 ,
(281).
Delay in The Attorney General drew attention to the delay
which sometimes occurred in transmitting for confirm-
ation Acts passed in the Plantations (390). In the
event of repeal, such delay was bound to cause unneces-
sary trouble (394).
Wt, 26089. C.P. b -
XX11, PREFACE,
2.
THE AMERICAN COLONIES.
Whilst Edward Hyde was being duly appointed and
coi. Gary's approved at home as Lt. Governor of North Carolina,
(13, 57), he was engaged, through no fault of his own, in
a serious struggle with Col. Gary and the Quaker party,
who broke out into open and armed rebellion against
his authority and that of his Council and Assembly.
We have here accounts of the matter from the Council,
the Assembly, Hyde himself and Col. Spotswood, Lt.
Governor of Virginia (42, 42 iv., 78, 78 i.). From these
we gather that Col. Tynte, Governor of Carolina, having
died before he had given Hyde his commission as Lt.
Governor of North Carolina, the latter, on his arrival in
the country, found himself without proper credentials.
He was able, however, to demonstrate that the Lords
Proprietors intended him for Lt. Governor, and he was
accordingly unanimously invited to administer the
country as President of the Council until his commission
should arrive. Col. Gary had himself joined in this
invitation. But he presently proceeded to obstruct the
Government, protesting that Hyde had exceeded his
powers in summoning an Assembly, which he probably
perceived to be inimical to himself. The Assembly
thereupon ordered him and some of his chief supporters
into custody, and passed some Acts directed against him,
in retaliation for his previous misdemeanours. In this
Col. Spotswood thought they showed themselves both
vindictive and indiscreet. Gary soon escaped from
prison and, defying the authority of the Assembly,
raised a revolt. First he fortified his house and shut
himself up in it. Then, finding that the Government
was powerless to capture him, he passed to the offensive.
Fitting out a brigantine and some other vessels, he
declared himself President, and sailed to attack Hyde
and his Council. Hyde thereupon appealed to Virginia for
help. Col. Spotswood at first endeavoured to mediate
between the two rival factions. But Gary insisted upon
an appeal to arms. Moreover, he and his supporters
PREFACE. Xxiii.
endeavoured to incite the Tuscarora Indians to rise and
massacre their opponents. Failing in his attempt to
seize Hyde and his Council, Gary withdrew into the
recesses of the country, where it was not practicable for
the Virginian militia to pursue them. For Spotswood had
raised his militia when Gary and his Quaker supporters
had rejected his attempts at mediation. The Commodore
of the convoy of the Virginian trade fleet had refused
to help him with men and boats, " judging it the least
part of his duty to do any service to this country." But
Spotswood dispatched some marines from the guardships
to Carolina. Upon their appearance, the leaders of the
rebellion dispersed. Gary and some others fled to
Virginia. There they were apprehended by order of
Col. Spotswood, and sent to England for trial (55, 60,
78, 78 i.).
Massacre by The troubles of North Carolina were not, however, at
Indians, an end. Unsettled by the intrigues of Gary and his
supporters, and emboldened by the evident weakness
and division of the country, a party of Tuscarora Indians
rose and massacred the inhabitants of the frontier
plantations, " killing without distinction of age or sex
about sixty English and upwards of that number of
Swiss and Palatines, besides a great many left dangerously
wounded," and burning the plantations. Even in the
face of this deadly menace, Hyde was unable to rouse
the province to make a united resistance. Col. Spotswood,
however, fully aware of the danger lest the conflagration
should spread over the borders of Virginia, called out
his Militia, and summoned to a conference both those
Tuscarora Indians who had remained loyal and the
other tributary and bordering tribes. He at once put
a stop to all trade with the Indians, " finding they were
better provided with ammunition than ourselves," and
demanded the release of the Baron de Graffenried, the
head of the Swiss and Palatine settlement, who had been
taken prisoner by the raiders and was being reserved
" to be tomahawked and tortured at their first public
war dances" (120). In this he was successful (177).
Graffenried was released after being obliged to conclude
an agreement of neutrality with the Indians, on behalf
XXIV.
PKEFACE.
Lords
Campaign
of his Palatines, seeing that he could rely upon no help
from the distracted people of North Carolina. Such.
indeed, was the condition of the country that both he
Emigration and other settlers were anxious to migrate to Virginia
(301, 408). In these circumstances Col. Spotswood urged
the necessity of orders being sent from home directing
Virginia, Maryland and Carolina to assist each other in
case of either being attacked (p. 222). The Lords
Proprietors wrote to the Council and Assembly recom-
mending the Lieutenant Governor and urging the passing
of a Militia Act. They required the quit-rents to be
paid in silver, and whilst commending to their care the
establishment of the Church, promised to contribute
200 towards the building of a church (306). They
also expressed their thanks to Col. Spotswood (339).
More effective aid was rendered by the Government
of South Carolina. At the beginning of 1712 a body of
700 Indians under British officers was sent to the aid of
the Northern Province. Their first attack upon the
Tuscaroras met with success, but this was followed by a
check. The preliminary success encouraged the people
of North Carolina to elect a new Assembly and raise a
fund for carrying on the war. But they could not
enlist a sufficient force. For the Quakers who had
fought against Hyde's Government would not carry arms
against the Indians. Another appeal for aid was made
to Virginia. It was readily granted. For there seemed
good reason to believe that the whole Tuscarora nation
was in sympathy with the outbreak. The conditions
to which they had agreed at their Conference with
Spotswood had not been fulfilled ; evidence had come to
light that they were endeavouring to induce the tributary
Indians to join them ; and the repulse of the force sent
from South Carolina had excited their' warriors' ardour.
It was recognised that to send Virginian troops to Carolina
was a prudent measure of defence for their own frontiers.
The Council of North Carolina, however, refused to
undertake any responsibility for the payment of the
Virginian troops or for furnishing them with provisions.
Before they were ready, and without the knowledge of
Lt. Governor Hyde, the Commander of the troops from
PREFACE. xxv.
South Carolina made a hasty peace with the Indians
" upon very unaccountable conditions, at a time when he
had reduced one of their most considerable forts to the
last extremity." With such an object lesson of the weak-
ness and disunion of the Carolinans, it was not thought
likely that the Tuscaroras would be content for long to
keep the peace so hastily made (408). (See also under
Virginia).
Maryland. The Governorship of Maryland still remained vacant.
Governor. Lord Baltimore had petitioned that he might now be
Rep Lo fc rd P n allowed to exercise again the Proprietor's right of
Bal e t tition e S a PP om t m g a Governor. The Attorney General and Coun-
cil of Trade, however, reported that the circumstances
which had rendered the appointment of the Governor by
the Crown necessary and desirable still obtained, and
were likely to do so at least so long as the war lasted
(38 i., 50). ' Complaints came to hand as to the adminis-
tration of the law by the Roman Catholic party. The
need of a Governor was emphasised (101, 101 ii., 314).
The Council of Trade, in a further representation, made
a suggestion of their own for filling the vacant Governor-
ship (349). But their suggestion was ignored.
New Preparations for the Expedition against Canada,
Mafsachu- dealt with above, form the greater part of the public
statLucJ business transacted in New England. The replies which
Dudley sent home in response to the enquiries of the
Board of Trade into the administration of New England,
contain a good deal of statistical information (135, 375,
375 i.). A list of causes tried in Massachusetts Bay is
Taper given (230 viii.-xvii.). Issues of paper money had now
resulted in driving out of circulation all coin, foreign or
other, in accordance with the well known monetary law
Church (167). A considerable amount of heat was engendered
by the laying of a tax upon the inhabitants for building
a new meeting house at Newbury and the maintenance
of Ministers, whilst several of the inhabitants and
freeholders of that town, some of whom had recently
become members of the Established Church and had
begun to erect a church for themselves at their own
cost, were ordered by the Assembly to desist. Mr.
Bridger, the Surveyor General of Woods, took up their
XXVI.
PREFACE.
Waste of
New Act sot
Mining
Governor
Conference
Raids by
s, who
t Aibany. t
Presents etc.
to the Five
Nations.
Hunter's
with the
y>
cause, and an appeal was made to Lord Dartmouth (291,
291 i.-iii.).
Bridger found himself powerless to prevent the waste
of the Crown woods by the contractor to the Navy as
well as by the inhabitants (85, 163, 292.) Hopes, how-
ever, were entertained of the new Act for the preser-
vation of white and other pine trees, the publication of
which was specially ordered, together with the Act for
the encouragement of the trade to America (132/f., 142,
292).
A prospectus was issued by the Society of Mines for
the development of iron and steel works in New England
and of copper works in Connecticut, with a pamphlet
directed against the " base and scandalous stockjobbing "
of an " upstart Company of Mine- Ad venturers " (439
i.-iii.).
Governor Hunter found his hands full with the affairs
of New York and New Jersey (95). His instructions
f r the preparations for the Canada Expedition reached
him as he was returning from a Conference with the Five
Nations at Albany. This Conference followed upon Col.
Schuyler's mission to counteract the French influence
at Onondage. The Five Nations renewed the Covenant
and presently contributed about 800 warriors to the
Expedition (96, 95 ii., 97 iv.).
The failure of the Expedition had its natural reper-
cussion in an outbreak of frontier raids. There is evidence
that these raids were sometimes combined with the
trading at Albany which New York merchants car-
ried on with enemy Indians (162, 401).
Following upon resolutions by the Society for the
* r J /
Propagation oi the Gospel, orders were given tor making
presents to the Five Nations, the dispatch of a Missionary
and interpreter, the settling of a garrison in the new
fort, and the furnishing of the Chapels, etc. (359, 361).
Hunter carried on his struggle with the Assembly
of New York throughout the year. He was at length
compelled to declare that it was hopeless, and that
nothing but strong measures by Parliament could save
the situation. A new Assembly came back on the
popular cry of economy almost identical with the old.
PREFACE. xxvii.
It could not therefore be expected that it would prove
any readier than the last to make adequate provision
for the support of the Government (p. 97).
The Representatives soon showed, indeed, that they
would not abate one jot of their pretensions. They
maintained their attitude of denying to the Council the
right to make any amendment to a money bill, and in
order not to lose their vote for the Canada Expedition,
Hunter was obliged to resort to a subterfuge by which
to secure a necessary amendment. " They will be a
Parliament," he comments (pp. 97, 100). In a letter
written to St. John in Sept., 1711, to which we have already
referred ( 1), he warns him that unless some speedy and
effectual remedy is applied, " the disease may prove too
strong for the cure." For the Assembly was already
claiming all and more than all the powers and privileges
of the House of Commons, and, should the Council
follow suit and claim the rights of a House of Peers,
there would then be established a body politic independent
of the Great Council of the realm. To keep them within
bounds, whilst the Revenue bill was being passed through
Parliament, he urged that they should be reminded by a
royal letter that they held their privileges by favour from
the Crown and only so long as they used them for the
Queen's interest and the support of her Government
(pp. 103, 104, No. 162). A few months later (Jan. 1st,
1712) he again wrote both to St. John and Dartmouth,
as strongly as it was possible to write, appealing to them
to remedy the desperate condition of the Queen's Govern-
ment in that Colony. He had done everything in his
power, but the mask was now thrown off. The Assembly
was deliberately challenging the position of the Council
and the powers granted by Royal letters patent. ' They
have but one short step to make toward what I am
unwilling to name." Officers of the Government were
being starved and treated as enemies, and the expenses
of the administration were defrayed by the Governor's
credit alone (250, 252). The details of the situation are
given in his letter to the Council of Trade of the same date,
and in an Address by the Council complaining of the
proceedings of the Assembly (251, 251 i., 389).
XXV111. PREFACE.
Hunter >phe Council of Trade gave Hunter their full approval
supported
at home, and support. Writing in Nov., 1711, they informed him
that, upon their representation, a bill had been ordered to
be brought into Parliament for settling a Revenue for the
support of the Government in New York. It was probably
merely intended as a threat, and Parliament rose before
it could be proceeded with. But in view of the con-
tinued obstinacy of the Assembly, the Board of Trade
recommended the re-introduction of the bill (169, 170).
At the same time they confirmed Hunter in his attitude
concerning amendments to money bills and the disposal
of stores at Albany. They directed him to remind the
Assembly that they sat merely by virtue of the Queen's
Commission to himself (169). Upon receipt of Hunter's
abovementioned letters in April, they repeated their
recommendation that Parliament should make provision
for a revenue at New York, and supported the Governor's
suggestion that the Queen should signify her disapproval
of the undutiful proceedings of the Assembly. " If the
Assembly of New York is suffered to proceed after
this manner " they added ' it may prove of very
dangerous consequence to that Province, and of very ill
example to H.M. other Governments in America, who are
already but too much inclined to assume pretended rights
tending to an independency on the Crown " (250, 251,
389). They also wrote again to Hunter repeating their
strictures upon the Assembly's infringements of the
Royal Prerogative, and warning them that proper
remedies would be applied unless his next letters brought
news of then: having changed their behaviour (444).
It is evident that great reluctance was felt in using the
extreme measure of Parliamentary authority. But such
warning and forbearance had so far but little effect.
In June Hunter reported that he had been obliged to
accept a quite inadequate Act for the support of the
Government, whilst the Assembly made it clear that they
were ready enough to relieve the intolerable difficulty of
his personal position, if only he would concede to them the
Royal Prerogative of appointing and paying officers (454).
Objection to In collecting statistics for replies to the queries of
the Cpnsus
the Board of Trade (454, 454 i.-vii.), Hunter encountered
PREFACE.
XXIX.
No registers
kept.
A negro
conspiracy.
Hunter's
humanity.
Invalid
soldiers.
The settle-
ment of
German
Protestant
Refugees.
Shipbuild-
ing at New
York.
Complaints
against the
Clergy.
an objection to the Census, " the people being deterred
by a simple superstition and observation, that the
sickness followed upon the last numbering of the people "
(454).
Analogous instances of this superstition based on the
same fear of the " sin of David," have been collected
by Sir James Frazer (Folk Lore, in the Old Testament,
Pt. III., Ch. V.). Hunter hoped, however, to complete
his census, having devised a new method of securing
returns (p. 301). As to births and burials, no registers
had ever been kept, nor could they be, until the counties
were divided into parishes. Great numbers remained
unchristened for want of Ministers (454).
A murderous outbreak by some negroes, who sought
revenge for cruel usage, caused something of a panic at
New York. Those conspirators who were seized were
brought to trial before the Justices under an Act for
dealing with such emergencies. Exemplary but savage
punishment was inflicted on those found guilty. More,
indeed, were executed than were known to have taken an
active part in the insurrection. Hunter endeavoured
to moderate the vengeance of the Colonists and reprieved
some of the prisoners (454). He also found time to
champion the cause of the invalid regular soldiers in the
Independent Companies at New York. They amounted
by this time to a quarter of the whole strength of the
establishment. Upon his representations it was arranged
that they should become out-pensioners of Chelsea
Hospital (96, 231).
In the autumn of 1711 Hunter was able to report that,
after his quelling of the mutiny, the German Protestant
Refugees were settling down to work, and that they were
now well on the way to produce Naval Stores. Soine of
them, as we have seen, were drafted for the Canada
Expedition (95, 96). The question of their subsistence
was, however, causing the Governor great anxiety (v. 1).
Other matters referred to in Governor Hunter's corres-
pondence are Col. Heathcote's proposal for shipbuilding
at New York (335, 335 ii.), and complaints against the
factious behaviour of some of the clergy of the Province
(337 //.).
XXX. PREFACE.
New Jersey. j n New Jersey the position was the reverse of that
Opposition * *-
of the in New York. Here the Assembly and the Quakers
supported the Governor, whilst half the Council were
bitterly opposed to him and them. A long letter from
one of the opposing Councillors, whom we may
presume to have been Daniel Coxe, gives their point of
view, that of the Anglican or Jacobite party and sup-
porters of Cornbury (14 i. c/., 436, 443, 449). News of
the change of Ministry at home, it is said, led the Assembly
to suppress a representation they had drawn up against
Cornbury 's administration and those Councillors who
had supported him (p. 10). But they took measures
against those who had championed Cornbury and his
administration, expelling two members, who were, how-
ever> again returned by the counties for which they sat.
The Assembly refused to allow them to take their seats.
They passed and sent up several bills which the obstruc-
tive Councillors promptly rejected, being especially
horrified by a bill to qualify Quakers for serving on all
juries and holding office, and another to make the
English bankruptcy laws current in the Colony (14 i.).
A petition against the former bill and the activities of
the Quakers as enemies of Church and State was presented
to the Queen (58 i.). Another grievance of the Councillors
was that they were governed from New York, and by
officers who resided in that Province, whilst of those who
resided in New Jersey " all the North Brittains that can
be found, though never so scandalous, are preferred, and
next to them the Quakers" (p. 11). This complaint
was an echo of Mr. Sonmans' indecent demonstration at
the Middlesex election, when he had declared against a
North Britain Government (p. 6). It was, of course,
an attack upon Hunter. The Governor, meanwhile,
had come to the conclusion that the experiment of
appointing an equal number of representatives of both
parties to the Council had proved a disastrous failure.
The six obstructive Councillors were determined to stir
up strife and interfere with the administration of Justice.
One of them had now started an agitation against
the payment of taxes (249, 249 i.). Nothing was required
to secure the peace and goodwill of the Province but the
PREFACE. XXXI.
removal of these Councillors from office. That done,
he could promise an entire settlement of the country.
Till that was done, everything was in suspense (249).
Hunter's reading of the situation was confirmed by
the Proprietors of New Jersey in London, who referred to
their former representations to the same effect, and
submitted the names of more desirable Councillors (156,
156 i., 413).
When Col. Vetch left Annapolis Royal to take up
his command of the Colonial troops on the Canada
Expedition, he appointed Sir Charles Hobby to be Deputy
Governor in his absence (71). The French Indians had
made an attempt upon the fort after their successful
ambush, but without effect. Vetch reported (July,
1711) that the place was safe, and some troops and stores
could be spared from the garrison (46 i., 61). These were
requisitioned by General Hill. Sir Charles' refusal has been
referred to above ( 1). Lively fears were entertained
as to the effect of the failure of the Canadian enterprise.
It was expected that an attempt would be made by the
French to recover Nova Scotia (175, 247), and intercepted
letters seemed to point to a possible attack upon Annapolis
Royal by sea (92, 94 i.). In these circumstances disposi-
tions were made both by orders from home for the pro-
tection of the place (247), and by Governor Vetch and
General Hill to strengthen the garrison. A detachment
of New England troops and a company of Mohawks
were ordered to their relief. Stores and an engineer
were also sent there, and, for the sake of discipline, Major
Caulfield was appointed Lt. Governor (92, 175, 175 iii.,
iv., 253). At the end of the year he reported that the
place had by then been rendered strong enough to resist
any force that could be brought against it, and that the
inhabitants, who had suffered some hardships, were
well satisfied since the publication of the Royal Pro-
clamation (62, 92, 208, 457).
References are made by both sides to the severe
treatment which had been meted out to the French
inhabitants (46, 46 i., 94 ii., 208). Governor Vetch is
blamed for this by Capt. Vane, the Engineer (403),
who also charges him with trading on his own account
XXX11.
PEEFACE.
Vetch's
report.
Pennsyl -
vania.
Penn's
surrender.
Affirmation
Act
repealed.
Virginia.
The
Assembly.
to the detriment of the inhabitants, the garrison and the
Treasury alike. Vetch, on the other hand, had good
grounds of complaint, and was subjected to strong
temptation (402). It often happened at this period that
Governors were ordered to undertake certain enterprises,
involving more or less heavy outlay, without any care
being taken to provide for their financial necessities. So
Vetch at Annapolis Royal found himself without means or
salary, and the bills he had drawn for the provision of the
garrison were not accepted at the Treasury (84, 304,
452, p. 165).
Col. Vetch sent in a report upon the resources of the
country and the measures which he deemed necessary
for its development (192).
The Attorney General reported upon William Penn's
proposed surrender of his Government (331). The
question of the amount of compensation to which he
would be entitled produced an account of the Revenue
of the Province (298, 298 i.).
The affirmation Act, which enabled Quakers to give
evidence in criminal cases, and against which protest was
entered from New Jersey, was repealed (58 i., 203, 221).
In Virginia, Lt. Governor Spotswood found the
Assembly recalcitrant. They renewed their quarrel with
the Council and still refused to provide for the payment
of the public debts, although they approved of the
services for which they had been incurred. They were
ready, indeed, to raise money by imposing a duty upon
British manufactures, but this could not be admitted
(301, 408). But as to laying a tax upon the country, the
received opinion of the populace was that "he is the
best patriot who most violently opposes the raising any
money, let the occasion be what it will," and upon this
cry at the elections members calculated to retain their
seats (301). Spotswood therefore dissolved the Assembly
on Jan. 31st. No provision had been made for carrying
out the terms of the Treaty with the Tuscaroras, and the
Government was left without any fund wherewith to meet
any emergency that might well arise in the unsettled
condition of the frontier (301, 408). Spotswood declared
that there was no personal difference between himself
PREFACE. XXxiii.
and the Burgesses or the country. He expected a
reaction against the parsimonious policy of the late
Assembly, but determined to await sure signs of it
before holding another election (301).
Virginia Upon hearing news of the massacre in North Carolina,
and the .
Indian War. (cf. See p. xxiii.), in which some at least of the Tuscarora
Indians were involved, Spotswood at once put a stop to
the Indian trade, mobilised the Virginian militia, and
summoned the Tuscaroras and the neighbouring Indians
to a conference. Impressed by the appearance of the
Militia, the Sachems expressed their desire for peace and
their concern that any of their tribe should have taken
part in the massacre. Spotswood suggested that they
should take a share in the punishment of the assassins,
offering them rewards for so doing, and he obtained the
release of Baron de Graffenried. He also demanded that
two children of the chiefs of each town should be sent
to be educated in Virginia and held as hostages for their
good behaviour. This scheme he welcomed as a step
towards the conversion of the Indians to Christianity.
At the same time, by offering to remit their tribute, he
induced some of the Chiefs of the tributary Indians to
send their sons to be educated at the College, hoping that
the Assembly would supplement the fund left by Mr.
Boyle for that purpose (177). Several of the Council
agreed to advance the money which the Assembly refused
to supply for making good the treaty with the Tuscaroras.
But the situation remained very anxious. The good
faith of the Tuscaroras was doubtful ; the Senecas were
threatening to take revenge for the killing of one of their
Chiefs by a Virginian ; and there was a danger lest the
French should succeed in uniting all the neighbouring
Indians with those subject to them in an attack upon
the frontiers of the English Colonies (382 i.). It was not
long before Carolina again appealed for help. Spotswood
prepared to send it, but, as we have seen (p. xxv.), a peace
with the Indians was patched up before the Virginian
troops crossed the border (408). Unmoved by the dan-
gerous nature of the situation, the Assembly persisted
in their refusal to provide for the defence of the country.
When, in the previous summer, there was reason to
XXXIV.
PREFACE.
Quakers
and Con-
scientious
Objectors.
Proposal for
combined
defence of
the Colonies.
Boundary
with
Carolina.
apprehend an attack by the French squadron in the West
Indies, they had refused to vote supplies for the forti-
fication of a province which could not boast a single
palisade or mounted gun, " the expense," Spotswood
observed " appearing to them much more immediate
than the danger." He had, however, persuaded them to
revive a law for the defence of the country in emergencies,
and under the powers conferred by this Act he made some
progress in the fortification of the mouths of the chief
rivers. In this task, however, he was impeded by the
attitude of the Quakers. They refused to work them-
selves or to allow their servants to work on the fortifica-
tions, affirming their consciences would not permit them
to do so, or even to supply provisions for the workers,
though they would feel obliged by their religion to feed
the French, should they come. Spotswood sardonically
contrasted this attitude with that of the Quakers who
had been the most active in taking up arms against the
Government of Carolina. He decided to put what
pressure he could upon them under the existing laws,
deeming it " absolutely necessary to discourage such
dangerous opinions, as would render the safety of the
Government precarious, since everyone that is either
lazy or cowardly would make use of the pretence of
conscience to excuse himself from working or fighting
when there is greatest need of his service" (pp. 113,
114).
In the face of these difficulties and dangers, the
Lieutenant Governor urged that he should be allowed to
make use of the quit-rents as an emergency fund ; he
made repeated appeals for a grant of arms and ammuni-
tion, of which the country was almost bare (seep, xv.),
and. in view of the critical nature of the situation, he
suggested that speedy orders should be given for Virginia,
Maryland and Carolina to assist each other in case an
attack should be made upon any one of them, and that
the regulation of such assistance should be defined and
not left " to the precarious humour of an Assembly "
(p. 222).
The settlement of the boundary between Virginia
and Carolina still hung fire, no instructions to that
PREFACE. XXXV.
end having been given by the Lords Proprietors to the
Governor of North Carolina (90, 408, 418).
immigration Whilst the terms of grants of land and the collection
to Virginia t t c
and Carolina, of quit-rents in Virginia were being made more strict, the
more advantageous terms upon which land could be taken
up in Carolina were tempting settlers to cross the border
into the Proprietary Government. The unsettled state
of that country, on the other hand, led others to wish to
move from the Indian frontier to the greater security of
Virginia (408, 418). The latter movement was checked
by doubts as to the proprietorship of lands in the fork of
Potomac (p. 280) ; the former was further encouraged
by the fact that whilst in the grant to the Lords Pro-
Mines and prietors of Carolina the amount of the royalty to be paid
to the Crown upon the working of mines discovered there
was definitely declared, the royalties reserved by the
Crown in Virginia had not been stated. A good deal of
prospecting for gold and silver in the mountains was now
in progress, an enterprise in which Spotswood himself was
taking great interest. He therefore pressed for a defini-
tion of the " due share in all the mines " claimed in
grants of Crown lands (418).
Virginia is again described as an Island in an Order of
Council (222).
3.
THE WEST INDIES.
Barbados. In recommending the repeal of a private Act of Barba-
transmLsion dos upon the ground of its injustice to one of the parties,
f Acts. t j ie Attorney General drew attention to the ill conse-
quences which might arise from the omission on the part
of Governors to obey their Instructions as to remitting
Acts for approval by the first opportunity (390, 394).
^wth r ^ e new Governor was soon in trouble. Lowther found
and Patent occasion to suspend both the Attorney General, Carter,
and the Secretary of the Island, Skene. The former
he had at first refused to allow to act as deputy to Mr.
Hodges ; the latter complained that the Governor had
encroached upon his office (80, 211 i., 228, 318, 318
vi.-viii., 378 i., vi., vii., 393 i.). The Council of Trade
XXXVI.
PREFACE.
The
Governor
and the
Navy.
Complaint
by Clergy.
Complaint
against
Lowther.
Addresses in
his favour.
Exchange
of prisoners
refused.
Trade
returns.
Barbuda.
were directed to enquire into Skene's case, and also to
consider the general question whether it was desirable
that Governors should suspend Patent Officers without
orders from home (393).
Another source of trouble was the relations of the
Governor with the Commanders of H.M. ships appointed
to that station. Naval Officers refused to take orders
from the Governor. Their refusal to cruise according
to his directions or to convoy the Trade Fleet as required
was the occasion, it was said, of the severe losses experi-
enced at the hands of enemy privateers (77, 77i.,319vi.,
378 xvii., 434, 434 i., iii.). Capt. Constable refused to
send a ship home with Thomas Kerby, one of Parke's
murderers, who had been arrested by the Governor in
Barbados. Lowther asked for powers under his Vice-
Admiralty Commission, to call Naval Officers to account
for disobeying his orders (318).
The Assembly was much incensed by a complaint
of the Clergy as to the provision made for them. It
was claimed that they were very generously treated. The
Clergy, pleading their poverty, had applied for a grant of
escheated lands to add to their glebes, and for the settle-
ment of Col. Codrington's donation (228, 228 i., iii.,
378 xv.).
Discontent with the Governor's actions found expres-
sion in a complaint which was surreptitiously sent
home. Such discontent, he suggested, was not uncon-
nected with his rigid enforcement of the Acts of Trade
and Navigation, as in the case of the ship Oxford. He
countered the complaint, whatever it might be, with
Addresses in his favour by the Council, the Assembly and
the Grand Jury (318, 318 ii.-vi., viii., 319 viii., 378, 378 i.
//., 395, 395 i.).
He gave good reasons for sending French prisoners
to Europe, and refusing to comply with their request
to be exchanged for English prisoners at Martinique
(77). The Board of Trade approved of his decision (186).
An account of exports is given (378 ii.).
The Island of Barbuda was the subject of a petition by
William Codrington and the Society for the Propagation
of the Gospel in Foreign parts (441 i., 463). In 1710
PREFACE.
XXXV11.
Bermuda.
Jamaica.
French
attack
feared.
Arrival of
the new
Governor.
Claims by
the
Assembly.
Right to
adj ourn
denied.
The new
Assembly.
the Island had been plundered and the fort destroyed
by the French. As beneficiaries under the will of Chris-
topher Codrington, the petitioners represented that they
had, at their joint expense, re-occupied and re-stocked
the Island and rebuilt the fort. The original grant by
Charles II had been for fifty years only. The Queen was
now petitioned to make the grant permanent, in which
case it was arranged that the Society should become
possessors of one quarter of the Island. It is described
as a nursery of horses and black cattle, and capable of
being planted with cotton, ginger, etc.
Bermuda was mildly plagued by measles and a
privateer (143). The appeal of the Secretary, Edward
Jones, was dismissed, the Council of Trade representing
him as unfit for H.M. service (212, 334).
The movements of the French fleets under Ducasse and
Duguay-Trouin and preparations at Martinique caused
uneasiness lest a descent upon Jamaica should be designed.
A proposal for the reinforcement of the garrison was
submitted by the planters and merchants (22, 22 i., p. 48).
The new Governor, Lord Archibald Hamilton, arrived
on llth July, 1711 (18, 28). On the eve of relinquishing
his government, General Handasyd had been obliged to
dissolve the Assembly. They were pursuing the same
tactics as those followed by the Assembly of New York.
On the one hand they quarrelled with the Council over
the right of the latter to amend money bills, on the other
hand they claimed the right to adjourn themselves (18).
Upon the latter point Lord Archibald asked for a ruling
by the Council of Trade (82). The Board replied that
the Assembly being called and sitting by virtue of the
authority of the Crown, vested in the Governor by
Commission under the Broad Seal, could have no power
to adjourn themselves without his leave, for longer than
de die in diem (187).
The new Assembly, which Handasyd had summoned,
was described by him as one which promised to be the
least inclined to faction he had known. This result may
have been due in part to the influence of the Councillors
in the election. They had promised " their best endea-
vours that such persons should be chosen as should shew
Wt. 26089. C.P. c.
XXXV111. PREFACE.
their duty and loyalty to Her Majesty and their zeal for
the good and welfare of this Island" (18). Their first
session was amicable enough. The Act for quieting poses-
sions was passed in the amended form required, and
provision was made for the Regiment and support of
Government for three months (82). Thanks were
returned for the recent relief from the duties on prizes
and prize goods by which privateering had been dis-
couraged, and the cancelling of bonds entered into for
the payment of such duties was requested (75, 124,
124 i., 345).
Unsatis- Lord Archibald found the Treasury empty, the accounts
& ditionof n of public funds much in arrear, and the state of the
the island. f ort ifi ca tions " ill-contrived and out of repair." Govern-
ment House and the public buildings were in a ruinous
condition (82, 267). The amount of the annual expendi-
ture was double that of the revenue. There was also a
great scarcity of provisions (p. 204). The last deficiency
was soon rectified by a plentiful harvest, and the arrival
of supplies from Europe (345, 421, 423). The repair of
the fortifications was at once taken in hand, and with the
help of Capt. Hawkins, the Royal Engineer, a new fort
at Port Morant was begun, and a new line of fortifications
at Port Royal was undertaken. For this work stone had
to be imported from England (82, 267, 423, 423 vii.).
The deficiency of the revenue was made good for the time
being by a vote of Assembly (267).
Returns and Lord Archibald presently returned answers to the
statistics.
series of queries put to Governors of Plantations by the
Board of Trade concerning the administration of the
Colonies (345). Returns of imports and exports are
Registers given (267 i., ii., 423 viii.). But a return of births,
christenings and burials it was found impossible to make,
registers not being kept for reasons which throw a vivid
light upon the conditions of life at that time (423).
Cartel As in the case of Barbados, a cartel with the French at
St. Domingo for the exchange of prisoners was refused,
and the refusal approved (82, 187, 267).
The It is noticeable as a matter of procedure that Lord
pomtm it j) ar mou t, n consulted the Council of Trade before making
Councillors. an appointment to the Council of Jamaica. This was
PREFACE. XXxix.
in the case of two well known Jamaicans who had been
recommended to him (108, 459). Lord Archibald urged
the Board not to support any application of the kind
without his knowledge and approval (p. 81).
The activities of the Jamaica Squadron have been
indicated above ( 1).
Leeward The new Governor of the Leeward Islands, Major
Governor Walter Douglas, arrived at Antigua on July 10th, 1711.
Douglas and jjj s Instructions were to enquire into the circumstances
the murder _~
of Governor of the murder of Governor Parke, to proclaim a general
pardon and to arrest and send home for trial, if need be,
half a dozen ringleaders of the rebellion. His first
report emphasised the necessity of proceeding slowly and
cautiously. The inhabitants were under arms. An
invasion from Martinique was daily expected, and the
island was. on the verge of civil war. The minority of
Loyalists, or supporters of Governor Parke, were terrorised
by the majority of the Planters, who, banded together
under the title of the " Association," had risen against
him. With one solitary exception, every member of
the Assembly had taken arms against Parke, and the
feeling of the majority was demonstrated by their
re-election. Col. Jones's regiment was on terms of friendly
intimacy with the rebels, and their cause was supported
by the active sympathy of the Commanders of H.M.
ships upon the station. In these circumstances, Douglas
decided to proceed with caution,. " believing it were
much the same thing to lose a thriving Colony to the
publick enemy or by a civil war " (36, 81, 302, 305, 355).
In view of the imminent danger of an attack by the
Defence of French, he first applied himself to putting the islands
into a state of defence, repairing fortifications, revising
* the discipline of the militia, and restoring order and
discipline in Col. Jones' regiment (36, 39, 63, 194, 302).
He had soon come to the conclusion that without naval
and military forces upon which he could rely for support,
Rebels and it would be worse than useless to attempt to arrest any
of the ringleaders amongst the inhabitants. ' Upon
the least motion I should make to apprehend any of the
planters," he writes to Lord Dartmouth's Secretary,
" the Island would be in an Insurrection, and the Loyalists
xl. PREFACE.
being the weakest, exposed to certain ruin and destruc-
tion " (81, 302, 305). He set himself, therefore, to
divide the leaders of the Association, and at the same time
H.M. to select and discipline about 200 men of the Queen's
regiment. . i i \ i -i i
regiment who should obey him in any action he might
Arrest of take. He arrested and sent home three officers of that
regiment who had taken part in the rebellion, to be
tried for high treason (63, 81, 160, 225, 302 iv., 305).
Lt. -General His next step was to suspend Walter Hamilton, the Lt.
suspended. General of the Islands, whom he describes as an enemy
of all chief Governors and an aider and abettor of the
rebels both before and after the murder of Governor
Parke.
The grounds for this action are given in addresses by
the Councils of St. Kitts and Antigua (302 i.-iii., vi.) and
evidence (154 ii.-vii.).
Hamilton had obtained leave to return home, but
on his voyage was taken prisoner by the French (332,
422). In relation to his position as Lt. General of the
Leeward Islands, a constitutional question had been
Question of raised and settled. Doubts were raised by the Lt.
Gerferars Governor of Antigua as to whether the Lt. General, by
membership virtue of his office, was entitled to sit in and preside over
of Councils.
the Councils of the several Islands. It was decided
that he was (26, 36, 195, 226).
Five As soon as Douglas felt that his position was sufficiently
arrested a^d secure, he published the Royal Proclamation of a general
sent home. p ar( j on w ith a f ew exceptions, and caused five of the ring-
leaders of the rebellion to be arrested (279, 302, 350,
355). One of them, Thomas Kerby, who had fled to
Barbados, was there seized in Codrington's house (318).
Both in Barbados and the Leeward Islands the Com-
manders of H.M. ships objected to taking orders from the
Governors to convey the prisoners home for trial (63,
81, 318, 355).
Dissatis- In the mean time the relatives and executors of
Douglas' Governor Parke had grown impatient at the delay
res ' in punishing his murderers. Upon their petition, enquiry
was ordered to be made as to how far Governor Douglas
had carried out his instructions (225, 260). The dissatis-
faction and disappointment felt by the supporters of
PREFACE.
xli.
Blackmail
alleged.
Drought in
Antigua.
Defence of
the islands.
St. Kitts.
Census of
St. Kitts.
Dutch at
Eustatia.
The grant
in aid of
Nevis and
St. Kitts.
Parke in Antigua are expressed in two letters, in which
the complaint is made that after a show of coming
firmness, " the mountain produced a mole," and Douglas
is plainly charged with blackmail. He compelled, it is
said, those who had been implicated in the murder of
the Governor, to purchase immunity according to their
means, extracting 1600 from one and a cow from another,
and amassing a fortune thereby " fitter for a noble than a
brevet major " (350, 355). It is, of course, possible that,
whilst Douglas' estimate of the situation was correct and
his procedure wise, he made use of the occasion at once to
frighten and punish the rebels and to feather his own nest.
In addition to intestine political troubles and dread
of invasion, Antigua was suffering from the effects of a
severe drought (36, 39, 355), which extended to Nevis
(313). We have further accounts of Capt. Bourn's
action in defence of Antigua and Montserrat (30, 39).
Another attack upon Montserrat was expected (194).
Douglas spent some time in regulating the affairs, review-
ing the militia and organising the defence of the four
Islands. He encouraged the settlement of the former
French parts of St. Kitts, and restored the routine
of the Courts and administration which had been allowed
to lapse (194). Robert Cunynghame, an ex-speaker of
Assembly, whom he describes as " a turbulent disturber
of the Assembly," was imprisoned under his warrant.
Cunynghame appealed against the Governor's arbitrary
exercise of power (194, 392, 392 i., ii.). Returns from St.
Kitts were hampered by the destruction of records by the
late invasion and the great hurricane, but a census is
given (65, 65 iii.).
Douglas complained of the action of the Dutch at
St. Eustatia and St. Martin's in harbouring deserters
and asked permission to make reprisals (194). He
announced the passing of several useful bills at Antigua
and St. Kitts (36, 194).
In distributing debentures to sufferers in pursuance of
the grant in aid of Nevis and St. Kitts, it was found neces-
sary to have a clear interpretation of the meaning of
' resettlement" required in the clause of the Act (102-
104, 137, 179, 201, 213, 368 i., 397 i.).
xlii.
PREFACE.
Stores of
war
requested.
Virgin
Islands.
Newfound-
land.
Capt.
Crowe's
report.
Failure of
Fishing
Admirals.
Placentia.
Sole right
to the
Fishery
demanded.
The correspondence upon Douglas' request for stores
of war and more frigates for the defence of the Islands
has been referred to above (63, 69, 194, 194 ii., v. p. xv.).
Capt. Walton renewed his application for permission
to settle the Virgin Islands (86, 316, 316 i.).
Commodore Crowe's replies to the usual heads of
enquiry relating to the Newfoundland Fishery were
returned in October, 1711. He commended the
industry of the Lt. Governor, John Collins, who had
succeeded in repairing to some extent the fort of St.
Johns. He himself had organised the inhabitants for
defence, and it was hoped that they would be able
to stand secure that winter. But for the future he
recommended the appointment of a resident Governor
and the establishment of a garrison of 200 men, 150 of
whom should be at St. Johns, as the more convenient
harbour, and 50 at Ferryland. The reduction of Placen-
tia would be the surest as well as the cheapest method of
rendering the Island secure and prosperous (10, 11, 149,
149 ii.). Col. Lilly, the engineer, stated his views upon the
fortifications required (330 i.). Crowe corrected several
abuses in connection with the Fishery. The Fishing
Admirals, it was found, neglected the duties entrusted to
them, having " so much business of their own that they
cannot find time to do justice for others." The inhabi-
tants and fishermen therefore turned to the Commodore
and Captains of men of war for the settlement of their
disputes. A list of the regulations for the better ordering
of the settlement and fishery, made by Capt. Crowe after
cousultation with the chief inhabitants and Captains of
merchant ships, is given, as well as the price and quantity
of fish caught during the season ( 149 ii.-iv.). The strength
of Placentia and Quebec is described (149 ii., v.).
The fate of the intended Expedition against Placentia
has been seen (1). The possession of that stronghold
was destined to be won not by direct assault but by the
arms of Marlborough in the West.
The policy of acquiring the whole of Newfoundland
and the sole right of the fishery at the Peace Negotiations
was pressed by those most nearly concerned (234, 373 i.,
388 i., and see 1).
PREFACE. Xliii.
Some indication of the traditional as well as the
modern pronunciation of Newfoundland is afforded by
the spelling in these documents. In one place it is
Newf'nland ; in another New-found-land. Quebec, (p.
92), again, is sometimes spelt Quibec, sometimes Queebec,
which is the local pronunciation at the present time.
CECIL HEADLAM.
July, 1925.
The documents calendared in the following pages are included
in the volumes of the Colonial Office Records preserved at the
Public Record Office and listed as follows :
C.O. 5, 9 ; 5, 10 ; 5, 11 ; 5, 290 ; 5, 306 ; 5, 308 ; 5, 382 ; 5, 717 ;
5, 720 ; 5, 727 ; 5, 751 ; 5, 848 ; 5, 865 ; 5, 866 ; 5, 898 ; 5,
913 ; 5, 970 ; 5, 995 ; 5, 1050 ; 5, 1084 ; 5, 1085 ; 5, 1091 ; 5,
1122 ; 5, 1123 ; 5, 1264 ; 5, 1265 ; 5, 1292 ; 5, 1316 ; 5, 1335 ;
5, 1337 ; 5, 1341 ; 5, 1363 ; 28, 13 ; 28, 14 ; 28, 43 ; 29, 12 ;
29, 13 ; 37, 9 ; 37, 28 ; 38, 7 ; 42, 13 ; 116, 21 ; 134, 2 ; 135, 3 ;
137,9; 137,10; 137,46; 137,51; 138,13; 152,9; 152,39;
152,42; 153,11; 153,12; 166,1; 194,5; 195,6; 194,23;
194, 24 ; 195, 5 ; 195, 6 ; 217, 1 ; 217, 31 ; 218, 1 ; 318, 3 ; 323,
7; 324,9; 324,10; 324,32; 388,15; 388,76; 389,22; 389,
37.
NOTE. etc. printed in italics in the course of the text indicates
that matter merely repeated or of no importance is
there omitted. Words printed in italics between square
brackets [thus] are suggestions by the Editor in places
where the MS. is rubbed or torn.
The reference " A. P.O. " is to the Acts of the Privy Council,
Colonial Series.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
JULY. 1711.
1711.
July 2.
Whitehall.
1 . Mr. Popple to Mr. Lowndes. In reply to June 28, encloses
papers relating to the Palatines settled at New York. Requests
50 copies of each of the Acts mentioned June 27. [C.O. 5, 1122.
p. 395.]
July 2. 2. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. In reply to June 29, encloses
Admiralty following. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed, Reed., Read 3rd
Office. July, 1711.- Addressed. I p. Enclosed,
2. i. List of H. M. ships and vessels attending on the Gov-
ernmts. in America. Defyance, Salisbury, Salisbury
prize, Jersey, Weymouth, Windsor, Nonsuch, Medway
prize, Jamaica sloop, Tryall, at Jamaica. Burlington,
Panther, Experiment, at Barbados. Diamond, Leeward
Islands. Lowestoffe, Feversham, New York. Chester,
New England. Enterprize, Try tons prize, Virginia.
Shoreham, Hector, going to New York. 1 p. [C.O.
323, 7. Nos. 14, 14 i. ; and 324, 9. pp. 482, 483.]
July 5. 3. Address of the Governor, Council and Assembly of the
Whitehall. Massachusetts Bay, to the Queen. Duplicate of Address from
New Hampshire, July 22 q.v. Signed, J. Dudley, Isa. Addington,
Secry., By order of the Council, and John Burrill, Speaker,
By order of the Representatives. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 140.]
July 5.
Whitehall.
July 5.
Whitehall.
July 6.
4. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General.
Requests an answer as soon as possible to letter of Jan. 3rd q.v.
[C.O. 29, 12. pp. 354, 355.]
5. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. Requests a reply
to April 27 on Wait Winthrop's petition. [C.O. 5, 913. pp.
336, 337.]
6. Minutes of Assembly of N. Hampshire, June 15- July 6,
1711. Endorsed, Reed, from Mr. Newman. Feb. 7, 17} j. 3pp.
[C.O. 5, 865. Nos. 75-77.]
July 7. 7. Bristol Custom-house Officers to the Council of Trade and
Custom House, Plantations. Enclose following. Signed, J. Reynardson, Jno.
Elbridge. Endorsed, Reed. 9th, Read llth July, 1711. Post-
mark. Addressed. 1 p. Enclosed,
Wt. 26089. B.& S. 375. C.P. 1.
Bristoll.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
July 9.
Hamsted.
July 10.
Windsor
Castle.
July 10.
Admiralty
Office.
July 11.
Whitehal.
7. i. List of fishing ships (7) cleared from Bristol to the
Newfoundland fishery June 24, 1710-1711, with ^th
of the crew landmen that never were at sea before, in
accordance with the Act 10 and 11 of Wm. III. 2 pp.
[C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 6, 6 i. ; and (without enclosure) 195, 5.
pp. 231, 232.]
8. Mr. Richier to Mr. Popple. In reply to yours, we have
as yet reed, no letters from ye Jersies, but I have writ to Mr.
Dockininique, ye President of our Society, who will wait upon
ye Lords Commrs. Wtt. we have to offer lies in a narrow compass.
We have formerly complain'd (and not without very great cause)
against those 4 men in ye Council (vizt. Cox, Sunmans, Hall and
Pinhorn, arid agt. Jeremiah Bass, Secretary, and ye late Repre-
sentacion of ye Assembly has justified our complaint. I shall not
wonder if Dockwrey become an advocate for ym., because they
have been his tooles to act such things for his private advantage,
to ye great wrong of those who intrusted him, etc. As to his charac-
ter we must refer to a memoriall etc. left some years since at yr.
Board. Signed, Edw. Richier. Endorsed, Reed. 10th., Read llth.,
July, 1711. Addressed. Sealed, f p. [(7.0.5,970. No. 150.]
9. H. M. Warrant granting to Thomas Day a piece of land
in Bermuda, whereon his brother, Samuel Day, had built a house
when Governor there. The Governor is to recommend to the
Assembly that the house built by him on the said piece of ground
be bought by them for 200 for the use of the Governor for the
time being. But if the house be not so purchased, the Governor
is to issue a warrant as aforesaid. Countersigned, Oxford.
Endorsed, Reed. Read July 26, 1711. 2 pp. [C.O. 37, 9. No.
19 ; and 38, 7. pp. 16-19.]
10. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. Capt. Crow of the Warspight,
who will command H.M. ships at Newfoundland, acquaints me
that in the heads of enquiry from the Council of Trade and
Plantations there are several clauses which require penaltys to
be inflicted, either by seizures or forfeitures, but that those
forfeitures not being inserted, he desires to know how hee shall
govern himselfe therein, etc. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed,
Reed. Read July 11, 1711. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5.
No. 7 ; and 195, 5. p. 232.]
11. Mr. Popple to Mr. Burchett. Reply to preceding. The
Council of Trade and Plantations command me to acquaint you
that there is no mention of any penalties in the Act to encourage
the trade to Newfoundland, neither is there any in the Heads of
Enquiry, and therefore the Commodore is directed upon his
arrival in Newfoundland to take care as far as in him lyes, that
the most effectual method be taken for remedying several irreg-
ularities that stil continue to be practis'd in those parts, and that
others formerly complain'd of be not again practis'd. [C.O,
195, 5. p. 233.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1711.
July 11. 12. H.M. Warrant to John Rayner, Attorney General of
New York, extending his leave of absence for 12 months. Coun-
tersigned, Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 99, 100.]
Windsor.
July 12.
Whitehal.
July 13.
13. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. We
have no objection why your Majesty may not approve Edward
Hyde as Governor of North Carolina etc. (v. June 14), provided
he qualify himself as the law requires and give good security
for his observance of the Acts of Trade and Navigation etc.
The security usually given by the Governors of other Proprieties
is in a bond of 2000 ster., but in regards the trade in that part is
inconsiderable, we humbly offer that the security to be given by
him be in a bond of 1000 sterling. [C.O. 5, 1292. pp. 313-315.]
14. Mr. Dockwra to Mr. Popple. In reply to enquiry of
July 5, explains that delay in receiving the second packet from New
Jersey, of which he had received advice (v. enclosed), was due to
the death at sea of Mr. Read who had been entrusted with it at New
York, etc. Continues : I have been ill and confined to my bed. I
have in some intervals of my ills read over some of the many New
Jersey Papers lying with me, and taken from some of the last letters
an abstract of some such transactions as are so very extraordinary,
and that come from one of my friends, an honest South Brittain,
and obedient son of the Church, who is no insinuating hypocrite,
but a man of probity, and the noble Lords and Honble. Gentle-
men at the boord may depend upon the truth of what future
reports and representations will appear transmitted by the same
good hand, and two or three more of like character, etc. etc.
Signed, Wm. Dockwra. Endorsed, Reed. July 13, Read Nov. 7,
1711. Addressed. Sealed. 2| pp. Enclosed,
14. i. Extract of a letter to Mr. Dockwra in London from a
Member of Council in New Jersey by Capt. Ball in the
Bristoll Packet-boat, reed. June 14. My last two letters
were by our good friend Col. Nicholson, and by Mr.
Norton, to which narratives I referre you of our new
Governour's surprising beginnings, falling in with the
seditious faction of turbulent men, whose cheif ring-
leader has in his whole life time been Lewis Morris. The
Assembly mett Dec. 4, etc. Mr. Sonmans will send over
coppies of the Acts past, and of such as the Councill
rejected, by which will be plainly perceived what our
pollititians attempted to compass by the countenance
and encouragement of H. E., who notwithstanding his
repeated professions of his impartiallity and desire of
peace and union, has entirely and passionately espoused
the seditious party of Morris, Johnstone etc., and united
with the Quakers ; and little has been transacted during
the sitting of the Assembly without his previous know-
ledge and connivance. His Cabinet Councill has been
and is Lewis Morris, George Clark, John Johnstone, late
Capt. now Coll. Farmer, Thomas Gordon, Tho. Gardiner,
a Quaker, and Geo. Willokes, the three first chiefest
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
managers. They began with entring into a strict
league with the Quakers, and drew up and presented
their Address, by which it is evident they act by the
same principles and moved by the same spirit as formerly.
And the Earl of Clarendon though absent and out of
their reach, must be attacked, in order to open the way
to ruin his friends. H.M. Councill of State was seldome
consulted except about passing of Bills. The Gentlemen
of the Councill might have taken just exception to the con-
tents of their Address, but wee forbore, that the Governor
might see wee were willing to joyn with him in accom-
plishing the great work of peace and union which he
pretended to be so desirous of, how really the event will
shew. Wee presented our Address to H.E. by which
you will see our principles are the same as ever, and that
wee did avoid whatever might look to be entring into
the list of controversy. Our address was extreamly
opposed by Mr. Morris, Tho. Gordon, George Deacon,
and Thomas Gardiner, neither of whome would sign
it, for what reason I never could learn, except that the
first of those had not the penning it with reflections on
the Lord Clarendon's Administration. But our peace-
able address disappointed them extreamly ; for they
could from thence gather no matter for a quarrell with
us, which wee found, they earnestly desired. They then
fell on new measures, which were, to pass some bills,
which they knew wee must reject ; accordingly a bill
for recording of deeds in the severall counties ; another for
destroying prosecutions by informations, and a third for
quallifying Quakers to serve on all juries, give evidence
in criminal} causes, and a third, for quallifying Quakers
to serve on all juries, give evidence in criminal causes, and
hold and enjoy offices of profit and trust in the Government,
which were accordingly sent up to us. The first took
away the only valuable perquisite belonging to the Sec-
retaries office, and was directly contrary to his patent, and
indeed impracticable, the Clerks of many counties being
scarce able to write, and having no particular offices, and
on other accots. most incapeable of such a trust. It was
moreover proved, that the records of severall counties
have been lost or embezzled by the negligence or roguery
of the clerks. The second was directly contrary to the
Acts of Trade and Navigation, and indeed the prerog-
ative of the Crown but you have too well known what
vallue this factious crew have ever had for that. The last
bill was such a monster, that every part of it was terrible.
It unhinged our very constitution of Government, was
directly contrary to the 7th and 8th K. William, a
great encouragement of Quakerism, or rather its establish-
ment, at least in this Province ; and of the most per-
nicious consequence to the Church of England. The
Quakers in the Councill, and their two fast friends,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 5
1711.
Morris and Gordon, attempted the passing that with
mighty warmth ; the Governor himself extreamly press'd
the same, at least the committing it, for fear of angring
the Assembly, or putting them as was the pretence,
out of humour. But wee considered, if it was committed
some trick or other might be used to pass it, so wee
resolved to reject it on the second reading, which being
done and the Quakers disappointed of their Magna
Charta, as it was termed, and indeed the very darling
of their souls, and no doubt part of the prize promised
them by Morris etc., they grew angry ; on which Doctor
Johnstone reported from a Committee of the whole
House, that notwithstanding it was of the utmost
consequence to the Proprietors and inhabitants of this
Province, that a Bill should be brought in for settling
their rights to their lands, yet it was to no purpose to do
it at this time, because there was no likelyhood that the
Councill would pass it. This was designed to throw a
slurr on the Councill and to imprint an ill opinion of
them in the minds of the ignorant, unthinking multitude,
as men who opposed anything that was of benefit and
advantage to them. He reported likewise that they
had passed a Bill in that House conformable to H.M.
injunctions in relation to the ease of the people called
Quakers, but that the Councill without committing
it had rejected it, designing thereby to magnifie their
obedience, and our disobedience to H.M. instructions,
when the case is really thus, H.M. orders her Governor
to take care that, in order to the ease of the Quakers
in what they conceive to be matter of conscience, so
far as may be consistent with good order and Govern-
ment, an act be passed in the Genii. Assembly to the
like effect as that passed in England for the solemn
affirmation of Quakers etc. Now this Act of theirs
being directly contrary to what the Queen recommends,
and to the abovementioned Acts of Parliament, man-
kind must wonder how any set of men could have
assurance enough to make so false and scandalous a
report etc. They resolved also to have a new clerk to
their Assembly,' presuming that Mr. Pinhorne being
formerly of the Earl of Clarendon's appointment, would
not be a tool to them ; they addrest the Govr. agt. him,
and though everything they alleged was false in fact,
or no crime, yet the Governor appointed one Bradford
the Printer at New York in his room, who had been
waiting in this town about a week before in expectation
of that place. Thus you will plainly percieve N. York
and the Party supply N. Jersey with instruments
requisite to accomplish its destruction. And having
in this been successfull, they next attack the Secretary
and Clerk of the Council!, Mr. Basse, first by complaints,
afterwards with petitions and addresses (v. May 7).
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
The Councill finding so great an inconvenience in the
loss of one honest man, the Clerk of the Assembly, and
understanding Mr. Farmer was designed to succeed
Mr. Basse if they could remove him, resolved, if possible,
to prevent that, therefore by advice of Col. Quary, they
drew up an address to the Governor in the Secretaries
behalf, which I believe broke their measures by the
unpleasant answer the Councill recieved, which, to-
gether with the Address, the Governor ordered to be
enter'd in the Minutes, and therein condemning Mr.
Bass, as if positive proof agt. him, tho' at that time
he was intirely a stranger to the particulars of the charge,
having had no sight of it, much less required to answer
it. Mr. Birchfield having suspended Mr. (now called
Collonel) Farmer for severall misdemeanors in his office
of Collector of Amboy, though the Governor made
interest to keep him in, it was resolved by the faction,
that Gentleman should be recompenced with the Sec-
retaries Office. It is reported that H.E. sends over the
charge agt. Mr. Basse to Brittaine, and recommends
Mr. Farmer in his place ; I hope you and all our friends
will at least endeavour to prevent that party man being
topt upon us, or any of that party, which would be
equally mischievous. Mr. Willokes was all this while
busy in drawing complaints against Mr. Sonmans,
which were much of the same nature, with those in my
Lord Lovelace's time, with this addition, that at the
Midlesex election he clapt his hand behind, declaring
agt. a North Brittain Government, which was urged as
a designed affront agt. H.E. and all of that Nation,
but Mr. Sonmans answered all very largely (v. May 7).
Mr. Hall of Salem was at the same time addrest agt. by
the Assembly for making a wrong taxation of a bill of
costs and selling a servant of his, whome they alleged
was then a prisoner, but he presented the Governor with
an answer in writing, as was thought to his satisfaction ;
however it did not prevent his being turned out from
being chief Judge of the place, and since the Grand
Jury have found an indictment agt. Benja. Wright of
Philadelphia for taking a false oath against Mr. Hall
about the servant. You may be informed, that Mr.
Hall being a reputed Quaker, that Party depended
on him for their tool, and he was at first highly caressed
by the Governor who (as Mr. Hall affirmed to me and
most of the Councill) told him as a secrett that he had
resolved in a month's time to have settled the Governmt.
in another manner than it was, had not the surprizing
alteration of the Ministry in Great Brittain intervened.
However Mr. Hall could not be prevailed with to joyn
with Morris, Johnstone etc., but vigorously opposed their
proceedings both in and out of Councill, the Quakers
have now given him a surfeit, so that he went con-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 7
1711.
stantly to Church during his stay in this town ; and
some talk as if that was the chief reason why he was
removed from being Judge, and one Middleton, a
Quaker (who came into the country in such a poor
condition, he was forced to sell himself a servant to
pay for his passage) appointed Judge instead of Mr.
Hall. The Assembly could now no longer dissemble
their designs, but at once pluckt off the mask by falling
on Major Sandford, a Representative for the County of
Bergen, because he had formerly, when of H.M. Councill,
joyned with the Lt. Governor and seaven more of that
body in signeing an Address to H.M. agt. the proceedings
of the Assembly in vindication of Earl Clarendon, for
this they expelled him the House, making at the same
time a vote, that that Address was false, scandalous,
etc., and that no Member of H.M. Councill that signed
it should be ever capeable of sitting in that House, till
he had publickly acknowledged his fault in so doing.
Major Sandford was afterwards elected a Representative
a second time for the same County, not one opposing
him, with a present of money to bear his charges, and
a declaration that if they refused to admit him or
expelled him again, he should be as often chosen ; the
Sheriff returned the writt, but the House would not
admitt him. Mr. Mott, one of the Representatives
for Monmouth County, a Gentleman who warmly
opposed their extravagant proceedings, was in
like manner expelled the House because he and Mr.
Lawrence had formerly petitioned the Governor and
Councill to have some reasons about the Bill for the
Canada Expedition, which they had presented to Col.
Nicholson, enter'd into the Journall, though the true
reason was his dissenting from them ; he soon after was
returned again by the County with a genii, concurrence,
but not allowed by the Assembly to sitt, some in the
House declaring it was impudence in the county to
return any man they had expelled. Mr. Trot well was
the next they designed for the same fate with Major
Sandford and Mr. Mott ; but what they had done in
relation to those two members had so incenced the
counties for which they were chosen, with the generality
of the Province (that were not Quakers) that it was
thought adviseable to proceed no further in expulsions.
From the time the Councill rejected the three Bills
abovementioned there was a whispering that shortly
something would appear so frightfully to severall of
the Councill as to oblige them to abandon the Province,
and then it would be in the Govr's. power to appoint
a number of new Counsellors, sufficient to carry all
things as they had projected, this was a Bill enacting
thatt all the statutes agt. Bankrupts made in England
should be in force in this Province. And it was past and
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
sent up, where, after long debates and reasonings it was
found the most pernicious bill imaginable ; for besides
that Mr. Edward Billing, and Mr. John Fen wick, under
whome all persons in West Jersey held their lands, so
that no man could be secure of his estate, but the credrs.
of those two gentlemen might come and take from us
our settlements, and hundreds of the inhabitants have
purchased lands of other Proprietors who are likewise
bankrupts ; so that to pass such a bill were to depopulate
and ruin the Province. But there will be many other
unanswerable reasons shown why such a destructive
bill ought not to pass and wee doubt not to satisfie
H.M. and the Honble. Comrs. of the Board of Trade and
Planta. why some other Bills were refused, hoping in
few days more to recover the packet sent over by Peter
Sonmans from the Councill in N. Jersey, which by the
death of the Gentleman to whose hands it was intrusted
to be delivered to Mr. Dockwra, the Proprietors' Sec-
retary, has occasioned this loss of time. Another Bill
is passed for support of H.M. Government to the vallue
of 944 and 300 for the Assembly for one year, new
currency ; and the same for the next year if the Governor
shall continue so long among us. But in case he should
die, or be recalled before that time, then he or his
execrs. and the other officers of the Government are to
recieve their salary only to the time of his death or
removall, and what remains is to be lodged in the
Treasurer's hands to be disposed of by Act of Generall
Assembly ; which is contrived to make all Governors
and other officers tools to the Assembly, or else they
shall have no salarys, for, say they, wee know not who
may be Govr. next, perhaps one that is no friend to the
Quakers and Dr. Johnstone etc., whether this can be
called a Revenue, or something else, I care not to name,
but you will easily judge. The Governor assured the
Assembly that Col. Morris was Presidt. of H.M. Councill
by her particular letter ; and they soon after order'd all
their bills to be delivered to Mr. Morris as President,
who brought them afterwards to the Governor, this was
opposed by the majority of the Councill but to no
purpose, the Governor declaring the Assembly must be
humoured. Indeed the greatest care imaginable was
taken not to displease them, but to allow them their
head in everything. As for the Councill, as little regard
was had for them (except Morris, Gordon, Gardiner,
and Deacon) as possible, nay less than during my Lord
Lovelace's administration ; howsoever, notwithstanding
all the affronts wee met with, all the hardship wee lay
under, wee lost not a jot of our courage, but did what was
our duty to our Queen and Country here. It is true
the Quakers and their adhserents in the Assembly
revile us, but the greater part of the country thank and
AMERICA AND WEST TNDTES. 9
1711.
commend u*, and wee are not out of hopes of H.M.
countenance and protection, for without it wee must all be
crusht, and sink under the weight of a Quaker-arbitrary
Assembly, than which nothing can be more intolerable
to English men, and true members of the Church of
England by law established. Mr. Gardiner is to be
our Surveyor Generall, if he is not already. Mr. Gordon
is Deputy Treasurer under Johnston, Billop, and
Bradford. Billop has a commission to be Escheator
Generall. Capt. Farmer is made a Collonel and Judge
of the Pleas in Middlesex and Somersett, in the room of
Mr. Sonmans, where there is likewise an intire new sett
of Justices. Col. Pinhorne is removed from being
Judge in Bergen, and Kerry Morris in his place. Capt.
Bown is out in Monmouth, and Col. Morris first judge
in his stead. Dr. Johnstone is second Judge. Major
Spicer, who went on the expedition to Canada, is
superseded by Justice Tomlinson in Gloster County,
and one Townsend a Quaker made Judge in Cape May
County. In short the greatest part of those put in by
Earl Clarendon and Col. Ingoldesby are turned out of
commission, and severall Quakers, and men recom-
mended by Quakers, put in. Col. Townley is lately
dead, in whome the honest part of the Council have
sustained a great loss. Col. Huddy is no more my Lt.
Col., he is so uneasy at a prosecution order 'd agt. him
for a monopoly on account of the patent E. of Clarendon
granted him about setting up his invention of carriages
for conveying goods through the Province, that I
believe, if it is not speedily stopt, he will leave the Pro-
vince, which I should heartily regret, he having been
at a vast expence in bringing matters to such a per-
fection. As to myself, I have dropt some words since
the rising of the Assembly, as if I designed for Brittain,
which has occasioned not a little uneasiness to some
people. The evening before the Assembly was pro-
rogued, they delivered the Governor a representation of
the State of the Province, (as they call it) containing
32 pages close writt, penn'd by Col. Morris and the
non- juror, George Willokes ; Dr. Johnstone read it to
him, the Assembly and severall other people being
present, but not one of the Councill except Mr. Morris ;
and as I am told by some of the Assembly, his answer
was he would represent matters to the Queen, and
doubted not but she would take such measures as would
give a genii, satisfaction. It contains (as some honest
Assembly Anti-Quakers assure me) the most scandalous
and villainous reflections on the Earl of Clarendon and
his Ldp.'s administration that could be invented, so bad,
they avoided nameing many of them. Severall pages
are writt agt. his Ldp., and Col. Ingoldesby is likewise
miserably traduced, and the late Chief Justice Mompes-
10 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
son, Col. Pinhorne, Townley and Huddy, Mr. Sonmans,
Mr. Hall and myself, if you'll believe 'em, are some of the
worst of men. Two hundred coppies I hear have been
printed, but since the news of the happy change of the
Ministry and the good agreemt. betwixt H.M. and the
Parliament, they were ordered out of Bradford, the
Printer's hands, and I understand wee here are not like
to have a sight of them. It is talkt abroad, as if some-
thing like scandalum magnatum against his Lordship in
that Representation had terribly scared some people ;
and I believe the fear of that, joined with the change of
the Ministry etc. keep it so private ; some here are of
opinion it will be sent for Great Britain by the Governor
to some of his friends, if not more publickly ; the first
part I believe, though scarce the last : yet nobody doubts
but Col. Morris and Dr. Johnstone will send coppies to
Sir Wm. Ashurst, Micaiah Perry, my Lady Lovelace,
and the Jersey Society. I just now hear a report (but
how well-grounded I know not) that what concerns the
Lord Clarendon is to be omitted, and the remainder
agt. Col. Ingoldesby, and the Councill to be exposed.
I cannot forbear mentioning one thing more,
which a gentleman assures me to. be true, and is as
great a piece of knavery as can be imagined. The
Assembly in their Representation say, that when Col.
Quary signed that Address (meaning that agt. Morris,
Jennings etc.) wee believe he was misled, and depended
too much on the credit of others ; for he has since (they
say) very much declined from joyning with them, in
many of their hott and rash humours, and doth at
present behave himself like a man, that doth intend the
service of the Queen and the good of the country. This
was to make the Councill suspicious of Col. Quary, and
to compliment him out of his design of exposing their
proceedings at home. Col. Quary thinks himself highly
affronted and injured on this occasion, their intentions
(as he imagins) being to make him both knave and fool,
and he has often declared to me, this Assembly was one
of the worst he ever knew ; that, as far as he could
percieve, there was nothing so bad but they would
attempt, if they thought it would injure any of the
Councill that were not their tools, declaring he was sick
of them, and resolved never to see 'em again. Mr.
Sonmans has lately procured some heads of this famous
Representation, which he will transmitt to you ; what
I have seen are intirely false, or miserably misrepre-
sented. Judge Mompesson is turned out, and one
Jemmison, a North Brittain, who lives at N. York is
Chief Justice in his stead in this Colony of N. Jersey ;
the man and his morals are too well known. Mr.
Regnier in imitation of the Assembly forbears not
according to his usuall custome to make out writts
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 11
1711.
agt. the Gentlemen of the Councill ; and but a few dayes
since sent one to the Sheriffe of this county to arrest
Mr. Huddy for 20, which he pretends is due to one
Gomez a Jew in N. York, though in November term
he had filed a declaration agt. him for the very same
money, and Mr. Huddy had put in his plea to it ; and
wee are told by some people that the Gentlemen of the
Councill have no privilege at all tho' an Assemblyman
or an attorney of the Court has. Col. Morris is made
second Judge of the Supream Court, and Thomas
Gardiner and George Deacon both Quakers, Assistant
Judges. The Governor of Pensylvania having passed an
Act of Assembly, whereby a solemn protestation is to
be taken (the name of God being omitted) instead of
the solemn affirmation appointed by Act of Parliament,
has occasioned Addresses from severall of the Ministers
and Vestrys in that Colony to the Queen agt. passing yt.
Bill, and our Minister and Vestry of Burlington have done
the same. Wee are now in a much worse condition than if
immediately under the Governmt. of N. York, for most
of our officers live in, and belong to that Province, yet
wee must pay them. Mr. Morris, the President of our
Councill, who is also Judge of the Pleas in the County of
Monmouth, lives an inhabitant of New York. Our
Chief Justice, who has not one farthing interest in the
whole Province, our Reciever Generall, our Treasurer
and their securities, our Escheator Generall, Mr. Joseph
Billop, who has likewise no manner of estate here ; our
Auditor Generall the like ; and Col. Farmer the Judge
of this county, Dr Johnstone, second Judge of Mon-
mouth County ; Bradford, the Clerk and Printer of the
Assembly, all live in New York Government ; and,
of those that reside in the Province, all the North
Brittains that can be found, though never so scandalous,
are preferred, and next to them the Quakers ; so that
the few tolerable officers will not act, or be concerned
with them. You will by this easily percieve the miser-
able condition of this poor Province, how far wee are
from being reconciled or agreed, and I see no prospect of
amendmt. while the Governor of New York is Governor
of New Jersey, and wee labour under the dead weight
of the Quakers. Now, if the Councill was purged of
Mr. Morris, who has ever been Ringleader of the seditious,
Mr. Deacon, Mr. Gordon and Mr. Gardiner, and the
Quakers kept close to the indulgence the Laws allow
them, but not permitted to bear any offices, much less
to sit either in Councill or Assembly, and then the
vacancies in the Councill filled up with honest, well-
meaning men, such as John Bown, Cornelius Longfield,
and Charles Duncan for the Eastern ; and Danish Leeds,
Jacob Spicer etc. for the Western Division, I believe this
Province might be easily settled. But if the two
12 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
vacancies now in the Council, vizt. Major Sandford and
Col. Townley are supplied with Quakers or others of
the confederacy in their interest, as at the last time,
and such I have no doubt the Governor will recommend,
I doubt the country will be ruined. Endorsed, Reed.
July 13, Read Nov. 7, 1711. 8| pp. [C.O. 5, 970.
Nos. 149, 149 i. ; ami (without enclosure) 5, 995. pp.
153-155.]
July 13. 15. Lt. Governor Hamilton to the Council of Trade and
Antigua. Plantations. Acknowledges duplicate of March 16 by Governor
Douglas, " who arrived here on Sunday last being the 8th instant,
by which your Lordships seem to charge me with neglect in not
sending home an express immediately to give an account of the
death of the late Generall, of which I hope I have cleared myselfe
before H.E. in Council, as your Lordships may perceive by the
inclosed coppyes of the Minites taken from the Council Book, to
which I referr, as I do likewise to the Minites both of the Generall
and private Councill of all my conduct and proceedings since my
haveing had the honour to be at the head of this so disjointed
a Government, and do hope that upon the strictest examination,
I have with honour discharged my duty (in the most difficult
of times) to her most sacred Majesty, the generall preservation of
the Islands and mutuall satisfaction of most of the inhabitants,
but it is my hard fate and for these eight years past I have con-
stantly had the misfortune to come at the head of the most
disordered and ruptured Governements that ever were. First to
that of St. Christophers in 1703, some time after the French part
was delivered me, which Island afterwards in 170f I preserved
for H.M. and defended it with onely 470 men good and bad, of
which but 60 were regular troops, the rest all militia, against
3200 effective men under the command of Monsieur Le Chevalier
de Chavaniat, and after the takeing of Nevis I was removed to
that Island when a great many of the inhabitants were dayly
deserting the place I prevailed with the wavering part to stay and
gave all the incouragement immaginable for others to returne,
which most of them did, which with H.M. benevolence and en-
couragemt. has put the Island (God be praised) in a very flourish-
ing condition againe, and will I hope now in a little time by what
the Parliament have so generously given H.M. for the releife
and resettleing the people of that Island, and St. Christophers
put them in a way to improve their severall plantations, so that
in a little time they will encrease the revenue of the Crowne to
what it was before those Islands were destroyed, for the people
seem to be much more industrious now then they were before
their misfortunes. And lastly I came at the head of a most
distracted Governemt. throughout all the Islands, and have been
ever since harrassed from place to place, as your Lordship has
from time to time observed by my severall letters, all which and
the great expences I have been at the hazard I have constantly
undergone with the great losses I did sustaine both in Nevis and
St. Christophers with the long service and faithfull discharge of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
13
1711.
July 13.
Antigua.
July 15.
Virginia.
July 16.
Spanish
Towne.
my duty gave me some hopes of H.M. favour to have obtained and
continued at the head of this Governemt., but since the Royall
pleasure is otherwise I do readily submitt, etc. P.S. The
originall of your Lordpps.' letter never came to my hands, so
have not the order you mention therein. Signed, W. Hamilton.
Endorsed, Reed. 10th, Read 12th Sept., 1711. 2 pp. Enclosed,
15. i. Minutes of Council of Antigua, Jan. 26, 17}y,
showing that the Lt. General Hamilton, proposed,
the Assembly agreed, but the Council refused to hire
a vessel to take the news of Governor Parke's death to
England. Endorsed as preceding. Copy. 2 pp. [C.O.
152, 9. Nos. 77, 77 i. ; and (without enclosure) 153, 11.
pp. 367-370.]
16. Lt. General Hamilton to Lord Dartmouth. Duplicate
of preceding letter. [C.O. 152, 42. No. 68.]
17. Lt. Governor Spots wood to Lord Dartmouth. Repeats
parts of July 25 following, relating to the disturbances in North
Carolina. ' I shal reserve the further account of these commotions
till the departure of our Fleet, now under an embargo (pursuant
to H.M. commands signifyed to me by Governor Hunter) wch.
will expire with this moneth. Had I found the assistance I
expected from the men of war, my next might have brought
your Lordp. the news of the total extinction of this flame, wch.
now may spread much farther ; but this is not the only disappoint-
ment the obstinacy of the Commodore has occasioned to H.M.
service, etc. v. July 25. I have only been able to purchase about
700 barren's of pork in this Colony, which yet is three times as
much as all the Revenue H.M. has here in bank will discharge :
for the rest I have engaged my own credit, rather than H.M.
service should suffer, and I hope your Lordp. will be pleased
to interpose your interest, that the bills for it be answer'd at
the Treasury. Signed, A. Spotswood. 5| pp. Enclosed,
17. i. Duplicate of No. 42 v. [C.O. 5, 1337. Nos. 11,
Hi.]
18. Governor Handasyd to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Since my last of May 19th, there is past the four follow-
ing Acts, vizt., (1) An Act to enable H.M. Treasury of this Island
to support and discharge 'tis [?-its] extraordinary occasions by
appropriating 3000Z. out of the Additional Duty ; (2) to prevent any
one person from holding two or more offices of projfit in this Island,
(3) for the maintenance of prisoners of war, (4) for vesting the estate
of Thomas Finch of the parish of Kingston Esq. in trustees the
better to enable his security to pay 3800 due from him to the publick.
Some disputes hapning between the Council and Assembly in
relation to a tack made to the bill to enable H.M. Treasury, etc.,
which they refused a conference upon, as your Lordpps. will see
by the Minutes etc. I shall take care to send by H.M.S. the Non-
such, which will sayle the latter end of this month. I designe to
imbarke in her myself. But the greatest misfortune was the
14 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
assumeing to themselves a right to adjourne for a longer time
then de die in diem, as by their Minutes of ye 5 June, which has
been twice attempted before dureing my Goverment, but they
could never carry their point ; since it was so much contrary to
H.M. royal prerogative and Instructions, upon which I com-
manded the Speaker and the House to attend me in Council,
and haveing passed the above mentioned, and then useing all the
little Rhethorick I had to induce them to returne to the business
that was not done, vizt. the Quartring Act, the Additional Duty
Act ; and what others they might think necessary for the well
governing this Island. But instead of that they went about
drawing up a message to desire leave to adjourn for a month,
wch. was within 20 days of the aforesaid Acts expireing. And
being informed that their resolutions was that if the time was
not granted them they would adjourn themselves, myself and
Councill finding their obstinancy, their opinion was unanimus to
disolve the Assembly, (wch. was accordingly done the 8th June)
and to call another, and the Council farther promissed.to use their
best endeavours that such persons should be chosen in their
several parishes as should shew their duty and loyalty to H.M.
and their zeal for the good and welfare of this Island. And
according to the several returnes already rrade they have chosen
such persons as will answer the end of calling a new Assembly ;
for it's my oppinion the least inclined to faction of any Assembly
that has been hitherto since my being here. Capt. Vernon,
Commander of H.M.S. the Jersey returned from Carthageen the
4th or 5th of this instant with an accot. that there was 8 or 9
sayle of large ships, besides other smal vessells in the Harbour,
and seemed to make all the dispatch posible for say ling. My
Lord Hamilton, Governor of Jamaica, arrived here llth instant,
and was waited on by myself and Council at Port Royal where
H.M. Commission was produced and proclaimed, and the usual
oaths administered to the Governor as is customary, after which
I delivered him up my stewardship, and at my return I hope I
shall have the good fortune to demonstrate that dureing my
governing here I have done everything to the best of my judge-
ment for the honour of H.M. and trust reposed in me, as well as
for the interest and good goverment of the inhabitants here,
which I hope will be to H.M. satisfaction as well as your Lordps.,
and at my arrivall shall not fail to pay my respects to your
Lordpps. Yesterday Comadore Littleton sayled with 5 men of
war for Carthageen in hopes to intercept Mons. Du Case pray
God send him good success notwithstanding he is hardly strong
enough. Yet I assure myself he will do all that a gallant man
can do for the service of our Queen and Country. I have put
so many men of H.M. Regt. under my command as he desired to
help to man them, etc. Postscript. Since my writing of this a
New Englandman is come in here, and says that Capt. Padon,
Commander of the Windsor and the Waymouth has taken a French
man of war of 40 od gunns and two French merchantmen all
very rich and of an extraordinary value, and that they arrived at
Boston in New England nine dayes before he came from thence.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 15
1711.
And a privateer of this place, Capt. Tempest commander, has
also taken four prizes of a considerable value as the Capt. reports,
and has brought them into Boston also, so that we expect them
here in a very short time, the Capt. being come from thence
33 days. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. Endorsed, Reed. 10th, Read
12th Sept., 1711. 21 pp. [C.O. 137, 9. No. 44; and 138, 13.
pp. 348-352.]
July 16. 19. Governor Handasyd .to Lord Dartmouth. Duplicate of
preceding. [C.O. 137, 51. No. 47.]
July 16. 20. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Barbados, tations. All the publick affairs of this Island are in a very bad
condition, but I hope by your Lordshipes' kind advice and assist-
ance to see this place once more flourish, etc. Encloses Minutes of
Council and Assembly. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed.
Sept. 26th, Read Nov. 15th., 1711. Holograph. 1 pp. [C.O.
28, 13. No. 71 ; and 29, 12. p. 376.]
July 16. 21 . Address of the General Assembly of New Jersey to the
Queen. The great preparations your Majesty has made for the
reduction of Canada is a demonstration that the remotest of
your Dominions are not exempted from your Royall care ; and
that the benefit, ease and safety of your subjects wherever they
are, as they are the good effects of your Administration, so they
are what your Majesty most cheifly studies to promote, which
cannot fail of engaging the favour and assistance of heaven to
make you always victorious, and will procure you a just Fame
as lasting and as glorious as the Trophies gain'd by your triumph-
ant arms can entitle you to. Our duty and the share we shall
have in the common security of North America engages our
thankfull acknowledgmt. for your Majesties' favours. And
as we have with great chearfulness contributed to the very utmost
of our abilities to it, so wee shall most readily and most will-
ingly support your Majesties Government and study to do it in
such a manner as shall be most agreeable to you, espetially now
wee feel the happy effects of it in the prudent conduct of your
Majesties faithful servant H.E. Robert Hunter, etc. Signed,
By order of the House, John Kay, Speaker. Parchment. 1 large
p. [C.O. 5, 1091. No. 41.]
July 16. 22. Memorial of Planters and Traders to Jamaica to the Queen.
We do think it our duty to lay before your Majesty the appre-
hensions we are under of the great danger that all the British
Colonies of ye West Indies, especially the Island of Jamaica, are
now in from the French. It is notorious that Mons. du Casse
was dispatcht in March last with a squadron of large men of war
for the Spanish Indies, and it is now made publick in all the foreign
advices that Monsr. du Guay hath been lately fitted out with a
very considerable Fleet, and that he hath with him a great
number of land forces, and it is said positively in some letters from
France that their chief design is to attack ye Island of Jamaica,
16
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
July 17.
Whitehall.
July 17.
Treasury
Chambers.
July 17.
St. Jago de
la Vega.
and wt. induceth us not to doubt thereof is ye certain advice we
have that there is a body of 1500 made ready at Martinico to be
embarked. The vast advantages that the French would have by
possessing themselves of that Island make it probable, and the
irreperable damage that the British Nation must for ever labour
under besides ye utter ruin of all that are concern'd in the Island
and Trade thereof justly alarms. Pray that speedy and effectual
means be taken for the security thereof. Signed, Cha. Long,
and 19 others. 2 pp. Enclosed,
22. i. A proposal for the better defence of Jamaica, July 16,
1711. There being but 500 regular soldiers there, it is
proposed that three or four 4th rates be sent forthwith
carrying 250 marines each, etc. \\ pp. The whole
endorsed, Reed. Read July 17, 1711. [C.O. 137, 9.
Nos. 40, 41 ; and 137, 51. Nos. 50, 51 ; and (without
enclosure) 138, 13. pp. 339, 340.]
23. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Enclose preceding to be laid before H.M. [C.O. 138, 13. p.
341 ; and (with autograph signatures) 137, 51. No. 49.]
24. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. Encloses following corres-
pondence relating to a complaint by Lt. Governor Spotswood that
Mr. Corbin, Naval Officer of Rapahannock River, had cleared the
Robinson frigate, by which the Governor intended to send letters
and public papers, without his knowledge, Mr. Corbin being part
owner of that ship and having, by a notorious piece of forgery,
altered the date of H.M. sign manual exempting her from being
embargoed. The Lord Treasurer desires the Council of Trade
and Plantations to examine into the matter with all convenient
speed. Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed. 18th, Read
19th July, 1711. Addressed. 1 p. Enclosed,
24. i. Extract of letter from Lt. Governor Spotswood to
[? Lord Dartmouth] May 5, 1711. As above. 2^ pp.
24. ii. Copy of H.M. permit for the Robinson to sail without
convoy within 12 months from Feb. 18, 1709, in the
eigth year of our reign, etc. Signed, Sunderland. Mem.
The word February, the figure 9 and the word eighth
appear plainly to have been razed and are written with
a different ink. The date in the books in the Lord
Dartmouth's Office is Sept. 18, 1708. If p.
24. iii. Lord Dartmouth to the Lord High Treasurer. En-
closes i. and ii. preceding. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1316.
Nos. 66, 66 i.-iii. ; and (without enclosures) 5, 1363.
p. 326.]
25. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to Lord Dartmouth. Re-
peats and refers to parts of No. 28 infra. Continues : I found the
Marquis de Sucre had been some time gone to Carthagena, as
I suppose, upon his parol ; and I have endeavour'd by the
opportunity of Commodore Littleton's going over thither with five
ships of his squadron to intercept (if possible) Mons. du Casse,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 17
1711.
to notify H.M. commands in relation to the Marquis's exchange
signified to me by your Lop. in such manner as I hope due regard
will be had to them. What your Lop. has been pleased to com-
mand me touching the prisoners at Lima, must be transacted at
Panama, by the way of Portobello, and which I will be sure to
take due care in, as soon as possibly I can, etc. Signed, A.
Hamilton. 3pp. [C.O. 137, 51. No. 48.]
July 17. 26. Lt. General Hamilton to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Antigua, tations. Since my last of the 13th inst. the Lt. Governor of
this Island has rose a dispute between him and myselfe, he alledg-
ing that as I am not named in H.E.'s instructions to be of the
Council, but only for the Island of Nevis, where I have the honour
to bear H.M. Commission as Lt. Governour, so I ought not to
sitt or precide in any of the Councills of the other Islands, but
only in that of Nevis, which seems somewhat strange, and may
prove very prejudiciall to H.M. service ; as to the first it seems
very od that I should one day bee at the head of the whole
Government, and deliver that Government up by H.M. order to
a superior' by her appoynted, and by that means immediatly
loose my place in Councill, or bee quite out of that Councill
where I was but just before the head, and bear still the same
Commission, by which I satt there, then which I think nothing
can be more strange, which dispute was refer 'd to H.E. who
tould me he would write your Lordships about it. As to the
second, of its proveing prejudiciall to H.M. servis, it may be of
vast consequence ; for should H.E. at any time bee to Leeward,
and I in this Island, Mountserratt attack'd, had I whole command,
both civill and military, I might on any such occasion releive
said Island, before H.E. probably could have any notice of it,
and the like by other Islands, for its seldome that the Generall
and Lt. Generall are in one Island long together, now on the other
hand, if the civill power is seperate, and lodged in Lt. Governour,
when the Lt. Generall is in place, the said Lt. Generall may
command and have men reddy for the releife of any Island, or
other service, but cannot take up vessels, provisions etc. for
transporting said forces, without applying himself e to an inferiour
officer, and then perhaps meet with twenty difficultys, of which
I shall give your Lordships but one instance, and that was in
1702, the first year of the war, when I had a commission, the
honour for Major Generall from Col. Codrington, the then Captain
Generall and Governour in chief e, who sent me a letter that the
war was proclaim 'd and inclosed an order to make all the dispatch
that possibly I could with the Queen's troops from Nevis, and
those from Mountseratt who he had ordered to joyne me, to go
and secure St. Christophers, which order I received the 28th day
of June about 2 a clock in the morning. I immediately apply ed
myselfe to the then President of Nevis (for there was no Governour
there at that time) to furnish me with vessels for transporting
myselfe and men, but met with a great many difficultys, and at
last had a brigantine lent me by one of my friends, without which
I could not have made the dispatch I did, for I was with the forces
Wt. 2(5089. C.P. 2.
18 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
aforesaid upon St. Christophers that night before sunsett and
secured all the passes, by which means I had the French part of
that Island delivered me upon the 4th of July following. There-
fore I beg your Lordships to remove the same by ordering the
premisses as in your great wisdome seems meet and just ; I haveing
nothing so much in view as H.M. service, the preservation of the
Islands, the good and wellfare of the people therein, etc. Signed,
W. Hamilton. Endorsed, Reed. Sept. 28th, Read Oct. 27th, 1711.
2| pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 89 ; and 153, 11. pp. 399-402.]
July iX. 27. Commandant Vanderheyden Rezen to the Dutch West
Fort India Company. Dutch. 4 pp. Signed, P. Vanderheyden
Ri K EssJ er eb' Rezen - Endorsed, Read Nov. 30 (O.S.), 1711. Enclosed,
27. i.-xxix. Letters, inventories, clearances etc. Dutch. 52pp.
[C.O. 116, 21. Nos. 6, 6 i.-xxix.]
July 17. 28. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
St. J^go de an( j plantations. After many disappointments, I at last arrived
here the llth instant etc. Your Lops, will not expect many
particulars from me in so short a time, etc. As we came to Bar-
bados the 22nd of June, we were allarm'd .vith the danger Ante-
goa was suppos'd to be in from the enemy ; and as we thought it
our duty to give them what assistance we could, we sail'd the
same evening, taking our course between the Sanctos, close by
Guardalupe, in order the better to have intercepted the enemy,
had they been on their return. Arriving the 27th at Antegoa
we found that the enemy had only made a faint on that Island,
but had attack 't Mountserrat, from which they had been bravely
repulsed, etc. Since Commodore Littleton's departure (v. No. 18),
the Medway's prize is come in from Pensilvania, which brings the
confirmation of the Windsor and Weymouth's having taken the
Thetis, a French man of war of 56 guns off the Havana etc. The
prize is said to be very rich, to have Monsr. the Count of Choiseul,
late Governour of Petit Guavas on board, who was kill'd with all
the officers and above 100 men, having very bravely defended
themselves. The loss in the Queen's ships is said to be inconsider-
able. The Medway's prize, my Lords, I find was ordered to
Providence with Ingenier Hawkins for a survey of that Island ;
He arrived here yesterday, and gives a very sad account of
that place : But I must suspend saying any more of his
expedition, untill I have time to examin into his orders and
instructions, etc. The usual ceremony and hurry on the like
occasion has prevented as yet my near inspection into the
civil affairs and circumstances of my Government. The Is-
land, they tell me, is pretty healthy ; the Assembly I find
dissolv'd, and a new one call'd, which is to meet the 23rd instant,
and several material laws expire on Aug. 1st., so that there is
a necessity of their meeting then, and indeed they seem somewhat
straitned for time, etc. Signed, A. Hamilton. Endorsed, Reed.
10th, Read 12th Sept., 1711. 3 pp. [C.O. 137, 9. No. 45 ; and
138, 13. pp. 353-355.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
19
1711.
July 17. 29. Mr. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. Encloses
Whitehall, extract of letters from Mr. George Clarke, May 30, 31, and June
7, relating to the Palatines. [(7.0. 5, 1122. pp. 419-423.]
July 17. 30. Capt. Bourn to [? Secretary of the Admiralty}. I send this
Newcastle f or the information of the Lords Commrs. of the Admlty., that
t BarbadoS on Sunday the 10th of June last off port St. Piers in Martineco
about two miles from the shore, I mett a French ship of 36 gunns,
a hagboat built ship of 24, a two mast vessell and nine privatier
sloopes having (as I have been since informed) 2000 men on board,
and bound to make a decent upon Antegoa, by that time I gott
within pistoll shott of the ships, it fell starke calme, and they lay
soe upon my quarter, that I could not bring a broad side to bear,
however after about three houers engagement with them, I
shatter'd them soe, that with the very first breese, they endeavour'd
to gett into the harbour again, which they succeeded in, for I had
two nine pound shott through my foremast, soe that I could not
venture to carry sayle upon it, and all my rigging and sayles very
much shattered. I lost but one man, and had nine wounded
besides my Lieut, who was shott in four places, but hope all will
recover. I returned to Barbadoes the Friday following, and on
Saterday two expresses arrived from the Leeward Islands desire-
ing assistance (the Larke their guardship being then refitting at
Barbadoes) and the Guernsey and Sweepstakes out a cruizeing ;
I refitted my mast and ship with what expedition I could, and on
Sunday night say led for Antegoa, and perceiving by signalls
made from the shore, that the enemy were not there, I continued
my course for Monseratt, where I arrived on Wednesday evening,
and upon consulting with the President and Councell of that
Island, I was advised by them to proceed to Nevis as the place
the enemy are most probably at, and accordingly I sayl'd at 12
a clock at night, and was scarce gone three hours, when sixteen
privatiers landed 1500 men on Monseratt, but they hearing of
my being at Nevis, and seeing a sloope escape from them with
intelligence of their being there to me, imediately embark'd
again without doeing any damage to the Island, they gott away
before my return, having left severall men prisoners behind them,
who upon examination informed us that their first designe was
against Antegoa, but that their ships were soe shattered, that
they could not goe to sea, and therefore they attempted Mon-
seratt, they having 64 men killed and a great many wounded,
as they give an account. Signed, L. Bourn. Endorsed, Reed,
from Mr. Fawlers of the Admty. Sept. 27, 1711. Copy. 2| pp.
[C.O. 28, 43. No. 62.]
July 19.
Whitehal.
31 . Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Recom-
mend that John Carver be appointed to the Council of Jamaica
in place of Thomas Clark, deed. [C.O. 138, 13. p. 342.]
July 19. 32. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Whitehall. We have received letters from Mr. George Clarke (v. May 28, 30,
31 and June 7th) wherein he informed us that the Governor of
20
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Canada had lately sent to the Five Nations of Indians some
officers and soldiers with a large present, etc., consisting cheifly
in ammunition, of which they are in great want. By the influence
whereof the French had by permission of the said Indians, begun
to build a small fortification in the Onnondage country. That
the neutrality that has been observed between the English Indians
and French Indians this war, has given our enemy the opportunity
of thus corrupting our Indians, and the people of New York seem
generally averse to a rupture between the said Indians, and
rather than be at the expence of supplying them with ammunition
in such a case, and defending their frontiers, which must neccess-
arily follow, choose to sit contented under this precarious security ;
without even so much as raising any money for presents to such
of the Indians, whose fidelity may deserve them. And the
presents Col. Hunter carried with him being almost all disposed
of that way, and for spies last winter (for whom the Assembly
made no provision) there's nothing now left to trust to, but the
faith of those Indians, and how much that is shaken already, is
but too evident from their proceedings. That so soon as Col.
Hunter had notice that these French officers were at Onondage,
he dispatched Col. Schuyler thither, with Instructions how to
behave himself with the Indians on this occasion. Copy of his
Journal inclosed, v. C. S. P. 1710, 1711. No. 864 i. [C.O. 5,
1122. pp. 424, 425.]
July 19. 33. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Whitehall. Enclose following.
33. i. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Repre-
sentation on the petition of Berkeley Seymour (v. C. S. P.
1710,1711. No. 343 i.). In consideration of Col. Sey-
mour's long and faithfull services to the Crown, he having
serv'd your Majesty and your Royal predecessors in a
military post above 30 years before his going to that pro-
vince ; and in consideration that he had clear'd several
ships from Maryland, and would have clear'd the
remainder had he lived some few days longer, whereby he
had been entituled to the 12d. per hhd., we humbly offer
that, to enable the petitioner to support his father's widow
and his other children, and to pay his debts and legacies,
your Majesty be graciously pleased to grant the peti-
tioner a moiety of the 9d. per hhd. arrising from the
ships then in Maryland (as granted by his Commission)
the amounts whereof, as we are informed, will not
exceed 4 or 500. We further offer that your Majesty's
pleasure be signifyed to the President of the Councill,
that he account with the petitioner's Attorney for the
moiety of the 9d. per hhd. accordingly. [C.O. 5, 727.
pp. 277-280.]
July 19.
Whitehal.
34. Wm. Popple to Josiah Burchett. Asks for a copy of the
report of the Lord High Admiral upon which H.M. letter of
exemption for the Robinson frigate was founded (v. July 17).
[C.O. 5, 1363. p. 327.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
21
1711.
July 20.
Admiralty
Office. '
July 20.
Antigua.
35. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. Encloses following in reply
to preceding. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed, Reed. 21st., Read
25th July, 1711. Addressed. 1 p. Enclosed,
35. i. Report of H.R.H. the Lord High Admiral, Sept. 10, 1708.
I have noe objection to the Robinson frigate being
permitted to sayle without convoy, etc. Signed, George.
Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 67, 67 i. ; and 5,
1363. pp. 327, 328.]
36. Governor Douglas to the Rt. Hon. Robert Monckton,
one of the Lords Commissioners of Trade and Plantations. I
arrived here ye 10th inst. where the People expressed a great
satisfaction in H.M. goodness for dispatching a new Governor to
remedy their late disorders, and being alarmed by the French
since ye time they were repulsed at Montserrat, I have been
oblidged to spend most of my time as yet in putting the Island
in the best posture of defence, the Regiment being in so weak a
condition as to men, and so ill armed that little service can be
expected from them while they are suffered to continue in this
disorder. I am. by all opportunitys endeavouring to inform
myself of the cases of the persons concerned in the late rebellion
according to H.M. order. I found all the General Assembly with
some of the Council deeply concern'd in it, and the same persons
being the men of the best estates are again chosen, except one
or two. I hope therefore I shall be allowed to proceed according
to H.M. directions with all necessary precaution, believing it
were much the same thing to lose a thriving Colony to the publick
enemy or by a civil war, hopeing in a little time to be able to
prevent both and to do all Justice to the authority of our Sover-
aign Lady the Queen. They seem very unanimous in carrying
on the publick works and fortifications of ye Island, they express
their duty in a most sorrowful sence and detestation of the
desperate fact, their most intollerable oppressions harried them
into, so many hundreds being involved in the same guilt but how
far ye sufferings of this unhappy people who seem disposed to a
more strict obedience and subjection may mitigate H.M. just
resentments, I hope every day to receive the honour of being
acquainted with. I humbly begg the Lords Commissioners of
Trade forgiveness for not having had a possibility as yet of giving
a further account of this affair by this pacquet : begging leave to
recommend Capt. Mathews to be of the Council in this Island.
P.S. I shall readily obey your commands relating to Mr. Parke
with the very first possibility. There being something of a
dispute between Lt. General Hamilton and the Lieut. Governor
of this Island about their taking place, I must desire their Lord-
ships' opinion whether the said Lt. Genl. ought not to take place
of the Lt. Governors in their respective Islands at the Council
board, and in all civil matters, as well as by his Commission he of
right doth in military affairs, he being only mentioned in my
Instructions for the Island of Nevis, where he is Lt. Governor,
begging their Lordships will let me have their advice thereon by
first opportunity, that I may the*better know how to proceed upon
22 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
this or the like dispute. Signed, Wa. Douglas. Endorsed, Reed.
Read Oct. 30, 1711. Addressed. Postmark. Sealed. If pp.
[C.O. 152, 9. No. 86 ; and 153, 11. pp. 390, 391.]
July 21. 37. Governor Lowther to Lord Dartmouth. Since my letter
Barbados, of 16th instant, a sloop arrived here from Curacoa which brought
letters of the 22nd and 26th of June last N.S. that Monsieur du
Cass was at St. Lewis in St. Domingo with ten sail of men of warr,
the least of which carry'd sixty gunes ; and that it was supposed
he design'd to go very speedily to Carthagene to convoy home
several galleons which lay in that harbour ready for sailing. I
cannot pretend to say how much this account may be depended
upon, but several intelligent and sober people here give great
credit to it. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Holograph. 2 pp. [C.O.
28, 43. No. 63.]
July 21.. 38. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Your Lordships having sent to me the draught of
your Representation on the Lord Baltimore's petition, requiring
my opinion thereon, I humbly lay before you a copy of the report
I intend to make on the said petition to H.M., which has also been
referred to mee, unless better informed by your Lordships, on
which I shall be ready to attend on, or receive your Lordships
commands, as you shall please to direct. Signed, Edward
Northey. Endorsed, Reed. 21st, Read 24th July, 1711. 1 p.
Enclosed,
38. i. Mr. Attorney General to the Queen. Report upon the
petition of Charles Lord Baltimore that his right of
appointing a Governor for Maryland may be restored
to him. Recapitulates events of 16891691 relating to
the taking of the Government into the King's hands, and
the appointment of Col. Copley during the King's pleasure
(v. C.S.P.). Col. Copley's commission under the Great
Seal June 27, 1691, was granted without the consent of
Lord Baltimore, who refused to agree to it. It recited
that by reason of great neglects and miscarriages in the
Government of that Province, the same was fallen into
disorder and confusion, by means whereof, not only
the publick peace and administration of justice (whereby
the property of the subjects should be preserved) was
broken and violated, but also there was an utter want of
provision for the guard and defence of that country
against the enemy, whereby the same was exposed and
like to be lost from the Crown of England, and that the
Province and subjects there could not be defended and
secured by any other way than by taking that Governmt.
into the King's hands and under his immediate care.
Several! orders were made in Councill for the provision
for the Governor, who was ordered to have half of the
2s. per hhd. laid on all tobaccos exported, the Act laying
that duty there having appropriated half that duty
for the support of the Government. But I do not find
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 23
1711.
that any judgement in any of H.M. Courts was ever
given against Lord Baltimore for determining any of
the priviledges granted to his ancestors by the Charter
of King Charles I. And I doe most humbly submit it
to your Majesty's consideration, it being lawfull, on
the necessity before stated, for the late King's preserving
that Plantation, to appoint a Governour, whether the
warr continuing that necessity doth not yet remain, and
thereby make it lawfull for your Majesty to continue
to appoint a Governor, or at least till your Majesty
be fully satisfyed that that Colony will be sufficiently
secured against the enemy by the Proprietor, which will
be less prejudice to him now than it was, when that
Government was seiz'd by King William, for that since
that time, by an Act of Parliament made in the seventh
year of his reign, all Governours to be nominated and
appointed by Proprietors of Plantations are to be
allowed and approv'd of by your Majesty by Order in
Councill. 6 pp. [C.O. 5, 717. Nos. 42, 42 i. ; and
5, 727. pp. 281-290.]
[? July 21.] 39. Governor Lowther to Lord Dartmouth. Encloses tripli-
Barbados. cate of June 24 etc. When I writt on the 24th of the last month
everybody believed that the preparations which the French were
making for an invasion at Martinique were intended against
Antegoa : this conjecture happened to be very right, but they
were disappointed in their design by the two following accidents,
(viz.) H.M.S. the Newcastle being a cruising on the 3rd of the last
month met with a French man of war and some sloopes (which
w r e now understand were bound to Guardaloup) and after a long
ingagement the French shipes were so disabled that they could not
proceed but were forced to return and refit ; the next day H.M.S.
the Guernsey and Sweepstakes met with another French man of
war and chased her into Martinique, upon these accidents the
French laid aside their project against Antegoa, and formed a
design against Mountseratt with their sloops only, which they put
in execution ; for on the 14th of the last month about four in the
morning they landed 1200 men at a place called Kerr's bay nigh
the North west point of the Island and march'd a considerable
way into the country, and then the inhabitants meeting them at
a convenient pass gave them such a warm reception that they
thought fit to retire with the loss of about 50 prisoners and as
many killed, and imbarked about 8 a clock at night, so that they
did not stay above 16 hours upon the Island ; but the reason why
they retired in so great precipitation, was from the intelligence
they received that the Newcastle had been there but four hours
before they arrived, and that a sloop was dispatch'd to informe
the Newcastle of their invasion. We have had no intelligence of
the enemy since they left Mountseratt, and none of their privateers
have appeared about our coastes as usuall. I have advice from
Lt. General Hamilton of the 4th instant, that he sent a truce for
24 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
exchange of prisoners about five weeks ago to Martinique which
they still detain, he also says an other flag of truce which was sent
from Nevis about 27 days ago is likewise detained, so that we
have too much reason to fear that they are preparing for a second
attempt upon some of these Islands. I am extreamly sorry to
informe your Lordship that all the publick affairs of this Island
are in great disorder, but I hope I shall be excused from entring
into the particulars at this time, having already given your
Lordship so much trouble, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed,
Col. Lowther 21 July, 1711. Holograph. 2| pp. [C.O. 28,
43. No. 64.]
July 22. 40. Address of the Governor Council and Assembly of New
Hampshire to the Queen. Wee crave leave humbly to prostrate
ourselves at your Majesty's Royal feet with all humble and dutifull
acknowledgments of the highest gratitude for the expressions of
your Majesties most compassionate tender regard to the prosperity
of your good subjects in these your Majesties Northern Plantations
in America, throughout the course of your Majesties glorious reign,
perticulerly for the signal instance of your Majesties Royal favour
in the gratious acceptance of our late humble addresses for
obtaining an expedition to be made for the reduction of Canada
and freeing us from those grievous oppressions, which wee have long
laboured under by the French of that country and the salvages
in their interests in soe near neighbourhood to us ; And that your
Majestic has been pleased to command the service of such numbers
of your skilfull experienced officers, and choice troops, with soe
considerable a squadron of your Majesties ships of war in this
important affair. And to committ the conduct thereof to H.E.
Brigadier Hill and Sir Hovenden Walker, etc. The preparations
for the part of this frontier Government in obedience to your
Majesties commands for the Expedition by the hand of the
Honourable Colonell Nicholson are carried with such application
in raising the troops of this Province and transports to joyne
your Majesties squadron are this day perfected, And wee render
our most humble thanks to your Sacred Majestie for the cloaths,
arms, and accoutrements for war of your Royal Bounty directed
for the benefitt of your Majesties troops levyed within these your
Majesties Goverments. May Almighty God on whom your
Majesty's dependance is placed be gratiously pleased to smile upon
this noble important undertakeing, and grant success thereto,
in subdueing of Canada to your Majesties obedience. It will be
a glorious acquisition to your Imperial Crown of Great Brittaine,
and of unspeakable benefit and advantage to the whole Brittish
Empire. May God be also gratiously pleased, to preserve your
Majesties sacred person, long continue your life and reign and
prosper your Majesties just arms everywhere, for the abasing of
the pride of the Great Oppressor of Europe. That your Majesty
may be instrumental under God to bring forward a speedy
happy and lasting peace is and shall be the daily fervent prayer
of Your Majesties loyal dutifull and thankfull tho' distressed
subjects. Signed, J. Dudley, Cha. Story, Secretary, By Order
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
25
1711.
July 23.
Boston.
July 25.
Virginia.
of the Council, and Richard Gerrish, Speaker, By Order of the
House of Representatives. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 5.]
41 . Mr. Bridger to [? Mr. Popple]. Since my last of May 21st
by the pacquet I understand that the Palatines, when they should
have gone to worke in the spring, mutined and Col. Hunter
obliged to send for officers and 60 men from Albany to quel them,
and I am informed they will not worke and that most of them are
goeing dn the Expedition against Quebeck, soe that the designe
of naval stores by them ends at once, and am told that the victual-
ing of the Palatines and not the raising of naval stores induced a
Genii, to undertake an affaire he was wholy ignorant of. Sr., I
have this great submition to lay before theire Lordps., that if
they shall recomend me to H.M. for Lt. Governor of New Hamp-
shire and Capt. of Fort Ann allowing me 60 men, a Lieut, and
Insigne, and to have the whole managment of them (keeping
this commision) humbly propose to take 40 men to work at
\'2d. per diem besides theire wages as soldiers, and so relieve them
as the service will admitt, the rest to keepe garrison, the woods
that are to' be worked in is but 16 miles from the fort, 13 miles of
it is by water, it is the best place I know of in this country for this
worke etc. I would engage to make 1500 if not 2000 barreLls of tar.
I presume it would answer and set other people to- work on the
same affaire, and likewise give me power to prevent the utter
mine of H.M. woods. I am thretened to be shot, if they ketch
me in the woods. P.S. By some omission in my commission
the word lands was left out, which should have been added to
the Surveyor General of all H.M. woods and lands, or lands and
woods, wch. is most proper, for now they dispute as much for the
land as ever they did for the woods and more, besides I humbly
offer it on the acct. of lands in generall belonging to H.M. at
Annopolis, and if it please God to bless H.M. armes with success
at Quebeck, and now at New Yorke, New Hampshire etc. Signed,
J. Bridger. Endorsed, Reed. 18th, Read 20th Sept., 1711. If pp.
[C.O. 5, 865. No. 68 ; and 5, 913. pp. 348-350.]
42. Lt. Governor Spots wood to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Acknowledges letters of Oct. 26th, Nov. 9th. In
obedience to your Lordps.' commands, I here send a transcript
of the several proceedings in Council relating to the selling the
quitt-rents ; by these your Lordps. will be inform'd upon what
grounds the method of sale by inch of candle prescrib'd in H.M.
Instructions came to be altered : I have also subjoin'd a copy of
a letter from Col. Byrd H.M. Receiver General containing some
additional reasons why a publick sale is less beneficial, than the
method now in use ; and since the former practice was altered
upon the experience of its inconveniency, I must joine in opinion
for continuing the present unless a greater inconveniency appears
therein. I have examined the several tables of fees sent me by the
respective officers in this Colony, and find them all agreeable to
the particular laws by which they were establish'd : and I'm the
more confirm'd in the opinion that they are within the bounds of
26 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
moderation, because I have not heard that there has ever been
any complaint of their exorbitancy. I have used my utmost
endeavours to detect the persons accused of illegal trading to
Curassoa and St. Thomas ; but have not been able to discover
any thing whereon to ground a prosecution ; the books of the
Custom-house officers give no light into the matter, and neither
the masters nor mariners employed in those vessells being in-
habitants of this countrey, nor to be found here, I'm also dis-
appointed of the discoverys which might 'have been expected
from them. Mr. Conner, the owner of one of those vessells, has
been with me with great professions of his innocence, he says his
vessell neither carryed tobacco to Curassoa nor brought any
European commoditys from thence ; and that for avoiding all
future suspitions, he is resolved never to trade again to that
Island. It is very probable that tobacco may be taken on board
by the masters without the knowledge of the owners,. and after
their clearing with the Custom-house officer, which cannot be
prevented any other way than by having a watchful eye on the
vessells while they are lading and searching them after they are
clear'd. I have with the advice of the Council proposed to the
Commissioners of the Customs, as the best means to prevent
such frauds, the establishing two searchers for this Bay, furnished
with shallops or good boats and hands, wch. may be continually
runing in to the little rivers and creeks, where such small vessells
load, and cruising in the Bay for examining them after they are
clear'd ; and that this may be done without any additional
charge to H.M., I have also proposed the reducing of the three
Collectors now established for York and James Rivers, to one
for both, and he to live at Williamsburgh, which is the center
between both rivers and equally convenient for either, and that
the sallarys of the other two Collectors be applyed towards the
support of those searchers, which in my opinion will prove more
usefull officers for preventing illegal trade. I could heartily
wish what your Lordps. seem to expect in relation to the building
a Fort at Point Comfort could suit with the disposition and
ability of this Countrey ; but when I propos'd to your Lordps.
the building that Fort, I knew very well it would be in vain to
expect the least assistance from the Assembly unless they were
first assured they should not be charged with the maintenance
of a garrison, which is an annual expence they will never be
prevail'd with to lay on the country, however necessary it may
be for its security : but if that point were once over, I should not
doubt engaging them to contribute to the building the Fort,
the charge whereof, I'm still of opinion, will be but inconsiderable
in comparison of that of a regular fortification, it being design'd
rather as something resembling a Land-guard-fort, than a- Bergen -
op-Zoom. As to the project of the iron mines, concerning which
I received the signification of your Lordps. 'pleasure, (v. Jan. 29)
I have in my former given your Lordps. an account how that
design was laid aside by the Assembly, and offerred my thoughts
how it may be made more beneficial for H.M. service and the trade
of Great Britain, upon which I hope to receive your Lordps.' com-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 27
1711.
mands. Encloses Journal of Council, on which I shal only
trouble your Lordps. with these few remarks, that having by a
Proclamation issued last December given liberty to all persons to
take up land on the conditions in H.M. Instructions, it happened
through the interfering of entrys that divers persons made pre-
tensions to ye same peice of land, for determining of which it
was thought necessary to establish the several rules, mentioned
in the Council Journal, which I hope will not be unacceptable to
your Lordps., since they have given such satisfaction to the
people, and that all contra versys upon these entrys are thereby
entirely accomodated. That the directions I gave for restraining
the unlimited granting of rights before the person desiring them
had made appear to me his ability to cultivate the land claim'd
thereby, is readily comply'd with, will appear by the several
applications on the Journal. And that I have with equal
satisfaction and less charge to the people taken the granting of
lapsed and escheated land out of the hands of the General Court
(where it had been a long time improperly placed) and brought
all applications of that nature to the Governor in Council as a
more proper channell to dispense the favours of the Crown.
Notwithstanding the objections made against the terms of grant-
ing land mentioned in H.M. Instructions, and the positive opinion
of some that none would be taken up on those conditions ; there
have been considerable quantitys entered for since the publication
of those Instructions, and patents signed on the same terms last
April, for much larger quantitys heretofore surveyed. I hope
this will be an argument against further clamours on that head,
and hinder any applications from the Assembly for altering the
Instruction, especially if H.M. shal be pleased to allow patents to
issue for all lands entered and surveyed before the death of Col.
Nott, according to what I proposed to your Lordps. Dec. 18.
Having lately discovered here a notorious peice of forgery in
razing and altering the date of H.M. letter mandatory granted
to the Robinson frigat of London, and making it serve a voyage
for which it was never intended, I took the opportunity by the
New York pacquet to impart that matter with the particular
circumstances of it in a letter to my Lord Dartmouth etc. ; and
having found very great reason to suspect that Mr. Corbin the
Naval Officer of Rappahanock, who is also part owner of the ship,
is privy to the forgery, the Council being of the same opinion, I
have removed him from his office, and shal wait H.M. commands
for proceeding further against him, if upon examination of the
other owners at London, they shal clear themselves, and throw the
crime on him. Your Lordps. will perceive by the accompts
herewith sent how much H.M. revenues both of the Quitt-rents
and 2s. per hhd. are sunk of late : this is occasioned by the declin-
ing price of tobacco for several years successively, which has
discouraged people from offerring any considerable rate for the
former, or shipping off their own tobacco for advancing the latter,
many chosing rather to keep their tobacco in the country under
the danger of spoiling, than venture to ship it and run the hazard
of its bringing them in debt. The accompt of the quitt-rents has
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
this last year received an addition of above 10,000 acres of con-
cealed land, for there has been no new land granted in that time,
and I hope to see that revenue much more considerably advanced
by means of the Act passed last session of Assembly. I know
not whether your Lordps. have yet had leasure to reflect on the
advantages H.M. revenue will receive by that clause of it, making
three years non-payment of quitt-rent a forfeiture of the land ;
but the people begin to perceive that will prove so effectual a
remedy against all the evasions wherewith they have hitherto
been able to conceal their land, that some have proposed to me
to move H.M. to accept of a reasonable fine or composition for
altering their tenures, and giving them new patents for their
land upon the terms of paying a small acknowledgment in lieu
of the present annual quitt-rent : but this being an overture on
which I have not yet had time to forme a judgement, I shall
neither encourage nor discountenance it, untill I receive your
Lordps.' directions. Col. Hunter, Governour of New York,
having signifyed to me that he had received H.M. commands to
buy up a great quantity of provision for the subsistance of the
forces sent to Canada, and that it was feared the service might
be prejudiced unless a supply of pork were sent from hence,
provisions being scarce in that and the neighbouring Provinces ;
I have used such dilligence that there are now upwards of 700
barrells of pork ready to ship off from this country, and I believe
I have not left in it one barrell of sound pork besides. Tho' this
great demand happened at a time when I had no Assembly to
sett a rate on this commodity, I have taken such measures that
there is very little of it bought at a higher price than I myself
gave last Christmas when provisions were at the cheapest. The
price of the pork was to be paid out of the quitt-rents, so far as
that would go, but your Lordps. will observe by the quitt-rent
accompt, how little it will discharge. So that I have been obliged
to engage my own credit for the remainder, the people being
unwilling to take Col. Hunter's bills, wch. they do not know how
to negotiate at the Treasury. Capt. Smith, of H.M.S. Enlerprize
attending this Governmt. has had the good fortune to take at
the Capes a French privateer of 88 men belonging to Petit Guaves.
The prisoners have been subsisted here ever since June 7th, and I
have chosen rather to send them to England by H.M. fleet, where
they may be exchanged for the like number of H.M. subjects,
than to transport them with a Flagg of Truce to their own Island,
being resolved on my own part to avoid all suspition of an un-
lawful correspondence with H.M. enemy s, as well as to endeavor
by all means to prevent it in others. I should not have added
to your Lordps.' trouble if the unhappy commotions in our
neighbouring Province of North Carolina did not oblige me to
represent the same as a matter that may very sensibly affect the
peace of this Colony without the appli cation of proper remedy s.
One Col. Thomas Gary being some years agoe appointed Deputy
Governor of North Carolina under Sir Nathaniel Johnson, was
afterwards removed by an order of the Lords Proprietors, and
a President chosen to take on him the administration : but it
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 29
1711.
was not long before Mr. Cary being join'd by certain Quakers en-
trusted by the Proprietors in some part of the administration
gathered together a rabble of the looser sort of people, and by
force of arms turned out the President and most of the Council,
and by his own authority assumed the administration of the
Government. In the mean time the Lords Proprietors appointed
Col. Tynte Governor of South and North Carolina, and Mr.
Edward Hyde to be Deputy Governor of the Northern Province,
who was to receive his commission from the former. Mr. Hyde
arriv'd here last summer, but before his arrival Col. Tynte dyed,
so that he found himself thrown into a country without any
power or credentials, except some private letters from some of
the Lords Proprietors. However, by these he gave so good
satisfaction of his being the intended Governor for that Province,
that every one that could pretend to have deputations from the
Lords Proprietors, and among the rest Col. Cary, joined in a
petition to him to take the administration as President of the
Council, untill his commission for Governor should arrive. Accord-
ingly he was sworne, proceeded to settle Courts of Justice, wch.
had been' interrupted during the course of the former troubles,
and called an Assembly. But Mr. Cary and those of his party
finding their interest decline, and fearing to be called to account
for many unwarrantable actions and oppressions whereof they had
been guilty, began to find fault with their own election, protested
against the meeting of the Assembly as not called by lawful
authority, and endeavoured to stir up the people to throw off
their obedience to the establish'd Government. Upon which the
Assembly ordered Mr. Cary, and some of the chief of that party,
to be taken into custody, and proceeded to pass a law obliging
Mr. Cary to account to the Proprietors for their dues, wch. he
had refused to pay for the subsistance of the Palatines according
to their order, and added some other clauses perhaps too severe
to be justify'd, wherein it must be confessed they show'd more
their resentment of their ill usage during Mr. Gary's usurpa-
con (as they call it) than their prudence to reconcile the dis-
tractions of the country, but of this your Lops, will better judge by
the copys of the laws and address wch. are here inclosed. 'Twas
not long before they found their power was too weak to inforce
the execution of the laws they had gassed. For Mr. Cary having
made his escape out of custody, had again recourse to his old
friends the Mobb, of which he drew together so great a number,
and fortify'd his house with great guns and other warlike stores,
that when the Government had taken a resolution to apprehend
him, they found it impracticable to attempt it. Mr. Cary did
not long content himself to stand on the defensive, but fitting
out a brigantine of six guns, furnished him by a leading Quaker
of that Province, with some other vessells equipp'd in a warlike
manner, he again declared himself President, and went to attack
Mr. Hyde and his Council at a place to wch. they had retired for
their safety. It was then I received pressing applications from
them for assistance from hence to enable them to defend them-
selves against this Insurrection. Whereupon having advis'd
30 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
with the Council, it was thought fitt in the first place to offer my
mediation for accomodating their differences, believing that Mr.
Hyde would be prevail'd on to suspend the severity of the Laws
against Mr. Gary uritill the Proprietors' pleasure were known ;
and that this being once obtain'd, Mr. Gary would be contented
to sit quiet and suffer the Government to go on in the way to
which he himself had agreed. Accordingly I sent a Gentleman
very fittly qualify'd for transacting an affair of that nature to
offer my mediation to both partys, and writt to them the letter
of wch. I here send your Lordps. the copy : and because I was
in some doubt whether Mr. Gary would yeild to a peaceable
accomodation, I also writt another letter (copy inclosed) to be
delivered him in case he rejected the former, intending that if
fair means would not prevail on him, he might at least be frighted
into a compliance by the expectation of a superior force from
hence. Mr. Hyde and his Council readily embraced the offer
made them, declaring themselves ready to yeild to any termes that
could in justice or reason be expected of them ; but Mr. Gary
obstinately rejected all offers of accomodation. Tis true at
first he made a shew of accepting the mediation, but soon show'd
that he had no other intention in it, than to seize Mr. Hyde and
his Council by drawing them to an interview, separated from their
guards, wch. he treacherously attempted to execute in violation
of his own promise and agreement. After his disappointment in
this design, he would never agree to any place of conference where
Mr. Hyde could rely on the safety of his person : he was with
great difficulty perswaded to declare what his demands were,
and after a copy of them was obtained, he positively refused
to sett his hand to it : and tho' he had notice given him by the
gentleman I sent thither that every one of his demands would be
agreed to with some necessary explanations, even that would
not content him, but warned the mediator to retire for he was
resolved to treat no otherwise than with arms. Matters being
now come to the last extremity, Mr. Hyde and his Council again
pressed for assistance by a joint letter (copy enclosed] ; and hav-
ing had the unanimous opinion of H.M. Council here, that there
was now no other way left but that of force to put a stop to
this dangerous insurrection, and that it was conformable to
H.M. Instructions to assist Mr. Hyde and those in the legal
administration of that Government, I thereupon ordered the
Militia of our frontier countys to draw together, designing to
march a detachment of them into Carolina, and at the same time
to obtain a reinforcement of marines from H.M. ships of war here,
to be sent in their boats to the Sound of Chowan for securing
the brigantine and armed vessells with wch. Mr. Gary had been
enabled to insult the Government and overawe the people.
But the Commodore of our homeward bound fleet judging it
the least part of his duty to do any service to this Country,
possitively refused to afford me any assistance either of men or
boats, tho' upon my first communication of that project to him
he seemed to approve it, and that I also represented to him how
serviceable his boats might prove in transporting the pork I had
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 31
1711.
ordered to be bought up in Carolina for the Queen's service ; and
'tis only owing to that disappointment that I have been obliged
to lay aside the thought of getting any pork from thence, which
I wish may not be a disadvantage to H.M. service in another
place. In the mean time I receiv'd advice that Mr. Gary had
attempted to put in execution his chief design of seizing Mr. Hyde
and his Council, that he indeavoured to land a party of his men,
while at the same time he attacked them, with his cannon from
his brigantine ; but finding he was like to meet with some resist-
ance, and the courage of his mobb not being so great in action
as in imagination, he gave over the attempt and is since retired
to a remote part of the country whether it is impracticable to
march the militia from hence to attack him, he is there gathering
a greater force and threatens to bring down the Tuscaruro Indians
to his assistance. I have sent what marines could be spared from
our guard ships to the assistance of that Government, in hopes
by that means to satisfy the people that they are mistaken in
what their Quaker-Polititians have infus'd into them, that this
Government had no authority, nor would ever meddle in their
quarrels, and if this will not do, I shall still endeavour (notwith-
standing the almost insuperable difficulties of marching forces
into a country so cut with great rivers and without any con-
veniency of water carriage) to put an effectual stop to these
confusions, which give so great apprehensions to H.M. subjects
of this Colony, who reflect that ye fatal rebellion raised here,
which cost the Crown a great expence of treasure to quell, sprung
from much less dangerous appearances, especially since Mr. Cary
has threatned to act another Antegoa tragedy, to which his own
desperate circumstances and the wretched crew he has got
together seem like enough to prompt him. It is no small concern
to me to find in two or three of our frontier counties where the
Quakers have got the greatest footing, such a reluctancy to
undertake anything against Cary and his party, which I under-
stand is owing to the crafty insinuations of that sort of people,
who not only have been the principal f omenters of the distractions
in Carolina, but make it their business to instill the like pernicious
notions into the minds of H.M, subjects here to justify all the
mad actions of that rabble by such arguments as are destructive
to all Government. I think it necessary on this occation to
represent to your Lordps. how ill this country is provided for its
defence either against a forreign enemy or intestine commotions.
The powder which H.M. sent hither some years agoe is so much
wasted, that there's no dependance upon its doing execution
even at half distance. I beg your Lordps. will be pleased to
move H.M. for a fresh supply, and that in the mean time the
Admiralty may give orders to the Captains of H.M. ships resorting
hither, to exchange from time to time some of their fresh powder
for some of ours, wch. will be as proper for their use, in their
signals, watch guns and salutes. The confusions in Carolina
have hindered the meeting of the Commissioners for settling the
boundary s, but as soon as the affairs of that country attain any
tollerable settlement, I shal press them all I can to come to a
32 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
conclusion, and hope by the next conveyance, I shal be able to
give a good account of that affair.
P. 8. Kiquotan, July 28, 1711. Since I came hither to dis-
patch the Fleet, I have received advice that upon the arrival of
the marines I sent to Carolina, the heads of that mutinous rabble
there are fled and dispersed, and that there is now great hopes
that country will again be restored to peace ; the Assembly and
Courts of Justice beginning to resume their functions without
fear of further disturbance. The Commissioners for settling
the boundarys are just now mett, and I hope they will conclude
that affair before they seperate ; so that I may be able by the
next opportunity to lay their proceedings before yr. Lordships.
There are now further discoverys made of the ill designs of Mr.
Gary and his party, there being some affidavitts sent in hither to
prove that Mr. Porter, one of Cary's pretended Council, was with
the Tuscaruro Indians, endeavouring by promises of great re-
wards to engage them to cutt off all the inhabitants of that part
of Carolina that adhered to Mr. Hyde. The Indians own the
proposal was accepted by their young men : but that their old men,
who have the greatest sway in their Councels, being of their own
nature suspitious that there was some trick intended them, or
else directed by a superior providence, refused to be concerned
in that barbarous design. Signed, W. Spotswood. Endorsed,
Reed. 25th Sept., Read Nov. 16th., 1711. 12^. Enclosed,
42. i. Lt. Governor Spotswood to Lord Dartmouth. May 5,
1711. v. No. 24 i. Endorsed as preceding. Copy.
2^ pp.
42. ii. Duplicate of No. 24 ii.
42. iii. Copy of Proclamations (i) March 19, 1710 (11), pro-
roguing the Assembly to 7th Nov., and (ii) April 28,
1711, for the due holding of Courts, and for returning
quit-rent rolls etc. Signed, A. Spotswood. Same endorse-
ment. 2 pp.
42. iv. (a) Copy of Acts passed in North Carolina, 1711. (a)
for the better preserving the Queen's peace, (b) for re-
dressing grievances as to titles of land etc.,
(b) Copy of Address of the General Assembly of Carolina
to H.E. the Palatin and Lords Proprietors of Carolina.
We being met to perfect so far as in us lyes the recovery
of this your Lordps.' poor country out of a most wretched
confusion, etc., think it at this time sufficient to inform
your Lordps. that some restless and giddy heads among
the people called Quakers pursuing their wonted practice
and indefatigable endeavour to oppose (we may rath er
say to) extirpate the Church, after they had procured
several changes in the Government being perhaps encour-
aged by their former success, did in 1708 joyn with Col.
Gary, Mr. Porter and Mr. Moseley etc. and some persons
of desperate fortune at Pamplico raised an insurrection
against the Government then duly established by a
Commission from your Lordps. and to which they them-
selves had subscribed : and having by force and other
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 33
1711.
sinister means got the records and offices into their
hands, they set up an arbitrary Government which by
discords amongst themselves soon fell piecemeal to the
ground ; till that nothing remained but confusion,
disorder and oppression. These matters may it please
yr. Lordps. are notorious, and need no proof, the dis-
orders being encreased to that degree, that the continual
clamour amongst ourselves, and the reproach we lay
under in the neighbouring Collonies, as also the grievous
complaints made on behalf of the poor Palatins, put
all who had any sense of duty either to God or man
under a necessity of seeking some remedy for these
detestable evils, which we saw were very likely to
continue another year. The good method which your
Lordps. had taken being frustrated by the death of Coll.
Tynt, and the Hon. Edward Hyde "Esq. being arrived
here, and it appearing by letters from Col. Tynt, and
other testimonys that he was appointed by your Lordps.
to be our Governor, we could not but look upon him to be
the most propper person to receive us out of this distress.
And therefore many endeavours were made to put the
Government into his hands, w r hich were opposed and
frustrated by Col. Gary : but in a little time Mr. Hyde's
great candour and gracefull behaviour so far prevailed
wth. the best, and the awefull respect to his family and
interest overawed others, that Col. Gary found himself
under a necessity of complying or being deserted by all
those that yet adhered to him ; whereupon Mr. Hyde
was unanimously chosen by all who could pretend to
have a suffrage in the election, upon which a Council
was called to appoint Courts of Judicature and necessary
ministers, and to call an Assembly, to which Council
Col. Gary and Mr. Porter were both called, but without
any reason refused to give their attendance ; on the
contrary they have used all possible and most malitious
and odious endeavours, having caused the records and
seal to be detained to obstruct it, and all regullar pro-
ceedings, and to overturn the Government and introduce
the former confusion and miserys : for which their
seditious practices we were under a necessity to bring
them to a tryal (the account of which herewith sent).
And now the Government to the general satisfaction of
all men being thus put into some order, we earnestly
pray your Lordps. favourable construction of what has
been done, and that your Lordps. would assent to these
Acts we have herewith sent. And whereas in the first
there is a provision for continuing the Government,
we do not therein presume to give rules to your Lordps.
but out of a deep sense of the miseries we have allready
felt to prevent the like, untill your Lordps. shall accord-
ing to yr. great wisdoms appoint a better method, being
verrily perswaded that your Lordps. have not been
Wt. 26089. C.P. 3.
34 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
informed of the want of such a necessary provision.
And whereas in the second Act all proceedings during
these two years last past are made void, which howso-
ever it may seem severe, yet we found it necessary
because of the unheard of irregularities and unlawful
judgements therein past, as appear by the copys which
have been given out of their Courts, which could not
be anywise provided for, whilst they conceal all their
Journals and Records, that an inspection cannot be
made, we thought it better that a few should be com-
pelled to bring their suits over, than many be concluded
under unjust judgement, and yet the severity is not so
great as their declaring by proclamation all proceedings
null and void, that had been done by the space of nine
months before they usurped the Government without
any exception, tho in those proceedings they could not
challenge one article. And having laid before yr.
Lordps. this short but true account of our present
condition, we in most humble manner beseech yr.
Lordps. to take this poor countrey into your consider-
ation without any dependance on the other part of your
Lordps.' province, by which the influence of yr. Lordps.
good government towards us have been very much
clouded. And that you would continue to us this
worthy gentleman who has been so happy an instrument
of peace and reconciliation amongst us ; and that you
would remove these three restless incendiaries, Col.
Cary, Mr. Porter, and Mr. Moseley, from having any
share in the Government, which is all the punishment
we pray may be inflicted for many crimes and mis-
demeanours they are justly chargeable with. We have
but one thing more to lay before your Lordps. which
is the sale and surveys of your Lordps.' lands, concerning
which the complaints are so numerous and grievous, and
all the accounts we have yet had from either Mr. Moseley
or the Secretary's Office so short and unsatisfactory,
that no certain account can be had till a careful review
be made ; thus much only is certain, that many surveys
have been returned for tracts of land, whereon the
Surveyor has never sett his foot. We hope this matter
will be reduced into some better order by Mr. Lawson,
who as he has been a very zealous promoter of the
settlement of this countrey, so we doubt not but he
will be serviceable to yr. Lordps. in this office ; which
at this time needs a skillfull and faithfull manager.
We pray leave further to supplicate your Lordps. on
behalf of several of the new inhabitants who have
imported themselves and familys at a great charge into
this Government during these troubles, upon the encour-
agement given of having land by purchase, and there
being no setled Government, was under a necessity of
setling themselves upon any land they found vacant, or
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 35
1711.
else to have removed themselves into some other
countrey to their great dissappointmt. or utter ruine.
We hope yr. Lordps. will consider their case and give
order that they may have their lands granted on the
same terms that other your Lordps. tenants have, who
had the fortune to import themselves at a happier
juncture. We lastly beg your Lordps. that if any person
shall malitiously make any other representacon of the
state of the country and our proceedings than we have
here done, that your Lordps. would be pleased to suspend
your belief till we can make reply assuring your Lordps.
that we have had no other end than the doing justice
to all men and setling such a peace as we and our
posterity may reap the benefit of, etc. Signed, Edward
Hyde, W. Glover, Tho. Pollock, Richd. Sanderson, N.
Chevin, Tho. Boyd, Wm. Swan, Speaker, Fred. Jones,
Wm. Bray, Robt. Wallice, James Coles, Edward Smeth-
wick, John Jordan, Richd. Jasper, John Blunt, Wm.
Read, Tho. Vandormulen, Lag. Reading, Leonard
Laftin, Edward Boyner, Tho. Relfe, Tho. Long, Richd.
Lerry, Tho. Lee, Richd. Stamp, Fran. Delamare, John
Muncref. The whole endorsed, Reed. Sept. 25, Read
Nov. 16, 1711. Copy. 12 pp.
42. v. Copy of Lt. Gov. Spotswood's letters to Col. Gary and
the President and Council of Carolina, June 20, 21, 1711.
Referred to in covering letter. Same endorsement. 3-| pp.
42. vi. Copy of letter from the President and Council of
Carolina to Lt. Governor Spotswood, June 29, 1711.
Referred to in covering letter. Same endorsement. 3 pp.
42. vii. Account of H.M. Revenue of Quitt-rents in Virginia,
April 25, 1710-June 1st, 1711. Total, 1814, 19s. 2d.
Same endorsement. Copy. 1 p.
42. viii. Account of H.M. Revenue of 25. per hhd., 15rf. per
ton and 6d. per pol. in Virginia, Oct. 25, 1710 July 20,
1711. Total, 4105 13s. l|d. Same endorsement. Copy.
Ip.
42. ix. Minutes of Council of Virginia, Aug. 23, 1702, Oct. 18,
1705, July 25, 1710, June 16, 1711, relating to the
manner of selling quit-rents. Same endorsement. Copy.
2| pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 71, 71 i.-ix. ; and (without
enclosures] 5, 1363. pp. 346-367 ; and (duplicate of
enclosure No. v.), 5, 9. No. 17.]
July 25. 43. Extract of a letter from Laurence Hollister of Bristol
Bristol. to Benjamin Cater of London. Reports the engagement of the
Newcastle with the French etc. | p. [C.O. 152, 42. No. 69.]
July 25. 44. Mr. Addington to Mr. Popple. Encloses following.
Boston. Signed, Isac. Addington. Endorsed, Reed. 18th, Read 20th Sept.,
1711. 1 p. Enclosed,
44. i. Proclamation by Governor Dudley for preventing
desertion of H.M. forces. Penalties for harbouring and
36 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
rewards for arresting deserters etc. July 13, 1711.
Boston. Printed. 1 p.
44. ii. Duplicate of No. 45 vii.
44. iii. Proclamation by Governor Dudley appointing William
and Francis Clarke of Boston, merchants, to accompany
officers appointed by General Hill and secure provisions
for the Expedition. Mr. Commissary Belcher is to take
up all pork and grain brought in by water, for the
service of the Expedition. Capt. Samuel Gookin and
Samuel Phipps are to attend the camp on Nodles Island
and see that there is no extortion or oppression in the sale
of victuals there, etc. Boston. July 2, 1711. Printed.
I p.
44. iv. Order made by the General Assembly of the Mass-
achusetts Bay, Boston, May 30th, 1711. Any person
enticing or harbouring deserters to be liable to 20 fine
or 6 months imprisonment, etc. Printed. 1 p.
44. v. Order by Governor Dudley, Boston, July 3rd, 1711.
The Select-men of the several towns of the Province are
to see that beeves, sheep, fruits, and greens etc. for
subsisting H.M. 6000 British troops encamped on
Nodles Island, be daily sent to Boston or Winnisimet,
where the proper officers will attend to bargain for the
same. Printed. 1 p.
44. vi. (a) General Hill to Governor Dudley. Lt. General
Nicholson brought me this morning the Act of the Gen-
eral Assembly, passed yesterday, for further enforcing
and enlarging the Act passed in May last against inticing,
harbouring etc. of deserters. I hope it will fully answer
the end for which it was made. I have only to desire
you will be pleased to give direction for securing all
such souldiers and marines as may be apprehended after
I am gone, in consequence of the said Act : and that it
be particularly recommended to Mr. Attorney General
to prosecute the inhabitants of this Colony offending
therein with utmost severity accordingly, etc. July 21st.
(b) Admiral Walker to Governor Dudley. Same as pre-
ceding, with the substitution of seamen for souldiers.
(c) Proclamation by General Hill and Admiral Walker,
pardoning deserters since June 25, surrendering at or
before July 27 etc.. Boston, July 21, 1711.
(d) Order in Council of the Massachusetts Bay. Boston,
July 21. 1711. That the above be printed etc. Printed.
I p.
44. vii. Copy of Act referred to in vi. (a) preceding. Printed.
2pp.
44. viii. Order by Governor Dudley. Boston, July 20, 1711.
The Commanding Officers of the respective regiments
are to cause above Act to be published by beat of drum
in the several towns, etc. Printed. 1 p.
44. ix. Proclamation by Governor Dudley, Boston, July 16th,
1711, addressed to Col. Ephraim Hunt, Major Robert
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 37
1711.
Spurr, Col. John Phillips, Col. John Hathorne, Col.
Benjamin Church. Upon information from General
Hill and Admiral Walker as to desertions from the camp
and fleet, I hereby direct you to raise the military
companies of Hull, Hingham, Weymouth, Brantry,
Milton, Dorchester, Koxbury, Dedham, Melfield, Bi[ ]gs's,
Cambridge, Chaiiestown, Maldon, Lynn, Marblehead,
Salem, Bristol and Pocassett, to examine all strangers
and travellers whatsoever, etc. Col. Nicholson has put
into my hands 100 sterl. for the reward of officers and
persons recovering deserters, etc. Printed. 1 p.
44. x. (a) Resolution by the House of Representatives of the
Massachusetts Bay, June 12, 1711, that H.E. be pleas'd
to emit the annexed Proclamation etc. Signed, John
Burrill, Speaker.
(b) Proclamation by Governor Dudley. Boston, June 12,
1711. Whereas our Soveraign Lady the Queen, express-
ing her most compassionate resentment of the great
losses, charge and expences of her good subjects in
'these H.M. Provinces and Colonies in North America,
for their necessary protection and defence, from the
insults of the French in their neighbourhood, and the
Indian salvages in their interest, as well as for the defence
of the sea-coast : of her tender regard to the welfare
of H.M. subjects aforesaid ; has been graciously pleased
to declare her royall resolution to make an Expedition,
under the protection and blessing of Almighty God,
to attempt the removal of H.M. said enemies ; the
recovery of her country's, and to bring them under her
intire subjection ; thereby to procure a happy and last-
ing tranquillity and quiet to H.M. subjects in these
northern Plantations. For the effectual carrying on
of which great important Expedition, H.M. has been also
pleased to order a very considerable squadron of Her
ships of war, bomb ships, transports and train of artillery,
with accoutrements for war, and land forces, from Her
Kingdom of Great Britain ; part of which are arrived,
and the rest daily expected. And to command the
service of some of her troops in their Provinces and
Colonies to joyn H.M. British forces in this undertaking.
And for their encouragement to yield their dutiful and
chearful obedience to H.M. commands in that respect
over and above the great advantages which will par-
ticularly accrue to them, by the success of this noble
enterprize, H.M. of her royal bounty, has been pleased
to order armes and ammunition for the furnishing of
these her troops, and a coat, breeches, stockings, shoes
with buckles, two coloured shirts, coloured neckcloths,
and hat, gratis ; for every officer and souldier that shall
be retained in her service aforesaid. And further to
promise upon her royall word, to such person or persons
who shall distinguish themselves on this occasion, that,
3S COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
out of the lands and territories which shall be reduced
to H.M. obedience, She will, if they desire the same,
grant them houses, lands, priviledges and immunities
for the support and benefit of themselves and their
posterity ; and to give ample instructions to the Com-
mander in Chief of her said forces, to indulge her loving
subjects in what plunder or booty may be gotten in this
expedition, and to apportion the same justly and equally
amongst her said subjects, according to the service by
them respectively performed, and to settle Garrisons
in those countries of H.M. regular troops. To all which,
H.M. Government of the Province of the Massachusetts
Bay have superadded their further encouragement, of
advancing the pay of their officers, souldiers, sailers
and transports, and provided for the return of their
troops as soon as the Expedition shall be over, etc. To
be published at the head of the several regiments of
militia. Printed. 1 p. This and the preceding Printed
at Boston, by B. Green, Printer to H.E. the Governour
and Council. The whole endorsed, Reed. Sept. 18, 1711.
[C.O. 5, 865. Nos. 69, 69 i.-x. ; and (without enclosures}
5, 913. p. 351.]
July 25. 45. Governor Dudley to Mr. Secretary St. John. Col. Nichol-
Boston, son arrived here June 8, and General Hill and the forces June
New England. 25th, since which there has been no application wanting in this
wild country to persue the affairs so as to save the time, and I hope
3 days will dispatch the fleet and forces in good health and vigour
and a middle passage will in 30 days shew them Quebeck where
God can make them victorious. Refers to enclosures. We
humbly hope the Fast ordered by H.M. Instructions to be holden
to-morrow will fil their sayles etc. Signed, J. Dudley. 1 p.
Endorsed, Rd. 17 Oct. Enclosed,
45. i. Minutes of proceedings of the Congress of Governors
at New London, June 21, 1711, in preparation of the
Expedition to Quebec. Copy. 9 pp.
45. ii. Duplicate of No. 44 iv.
45. iii. Duplicate of No. 44 x.
45. iv. Duplicate of No. 44 iii.
45. v. Duplicate of No. 44 v.
45. vi. Duplicate of No. 44 i.
45. vii. Proclamation appointing a General Fast for July 26th
and the last Thursday in every month during the
Expedition, " that divine conduct may be granted to
H.E. the General and the honourable the Admiral,
with H.M. forces under their command." Signed,
J.Dudley. July 16, 1711. Printed. I p.
45. viii. Duplicate of No. 44 vii.
45. ix. Duplicate of No. 44 vi.
45. x. Copy of Minutes of General Assembly, May 1711,
resolving upon address of thanks to H.M. for setting
forth an Expedition of so great consequence and making
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 39
1711.
provision for 900 men besides commission officers for
the Expedition. 6| pp. [C.O. 5, 898. Nos. 10, 10
i.-x.]
July 25. 46. Col. King to Mr. Secretary St. John(s). Refers to en-
Boston, dosed Journal. You'll there find, what difficultyes we mett with
through Nicholson's neglect in not sending his two transports
with a man of war to New York to convoy our provisions from
thence : through the misfortune that the Coloneys were not
iiiform'd of our comeing two months sooner : and through the
interestedness, ill nature and sowerness of these People : whose
Governmt., doctrine, and manners ; whose hypocrisy and
canting are insupportable, and no man living but one of Gen.
Hill's good sense, and good nature would have managed them with
that patience and dexterity as he has done. But if such a man
mett with nothing he could depend on, altho' vested with the
Queen's royal power and authority, and supported by a number
of troops sufficient to reduce by force all the Coloneys. 'Tis
easy to determine the respect and obedience H.M. may reasonably
expect from them for the future, and how absolutely necessary
it is, and with what great truth one may affirm, that till all their
Charters are resum'd by the Crown, or taken away by an Act of
Parliament : till they are all settled under one Government with
an entire liberty of conscience : and an invitation to all nations
to settle here, they will grow every day more stiff and disobedient,
more burthensome than advantageous to great Brittain. The
inclos'd Plan of Quebeck I form'd from the best advice that could
be had here. As to the strength of the works, the accounts
differ'd : but all agree that the scituation of the place is very
strong, and the avenues leading to it from the River choak'd
with woods, rocks and precipices. I have therefore by my
General's orders provided here a crane and other engines, which
will enable us with the 30 horse we take from hence to surmount
any difficulty of that nature we shall meet with, in bringing our
canon, mortars, and ammunition to the part which shall be
thought proper to attack the Town at. Wherefore neither the
strength of the place, or the great trouble the advantagiousness
of its scituation must undoubtedly give us, do make me in the
least dubious of success, because I know that with pains and
resolution we can overcome them. So that if storms, contrary
winds, and the difficult navigation of the River don't defeat us,
I beleive it's certain nothing else can. The Pilots who were with
Sir William Phipps in his Expedition against Canada, and indeed
all others we mett, represent the navigation of the River as the
greatest difficulty we shall encounter. That from Tadoussac
to some leagues above Quebec the water ebbs and flows with
that prodigious rapidity it will carry a ship above a league and
half an hour : that we must have a sufficient gale of wind to
stemm this tide, or it will drive the ships on shoals and rocks,
which are in vast numbers all along the River : and that there's
every day, especialy in the latter season, such squals of wind,
that the stoutest ships are hardly able to resist them. I am now
40 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
in no very great pain whether Nicholson will gett ready in time to
make the diversion he was order'd by Wood Creek, Chambly and
Montreal. For an expedient is found, which I hope will answer
the end near as well. This expedient is in sending the week we
go from hence one Major Levingston with 100 English and 300
Indians from Albany. These 400 men can alarm that country
as well as 4000, consequently will prevent the regular troops as
well as all the inhabitants above Trois Rivieres from falling down
to defend Quebeck, which I take to be the principal design of
Nicholson's Expedition. Our General's Declaration, which he
sends you by this occasion, would undoubtedly do us great
service if the inhabitants of Accadia had been tolerably well
treated after the reduction of Annapolis. However I hope it
will have some effect, and at least gain us pilots to conduct us up
the River : and encourage part of the inhabitants to join us, and
bring us in provisions when we are landed, since the General has
very prudently resolv'd to give them all manner of encourage-
ment, and perform religiously what he has promiss'd in his
Declaration. I can't express the uneasyness we have been all
in for our long stay at Boston. But it was unavoidable on our
part, unless we had gone without provisions and the men trans-
ports and all other necessarys we were to have from hence.
'Tis certain if the Government here had made that dispatch
which they ought to have done, and which our General constantly
press'd them to : I beleive we might have sail'd from hence a
fortnight ago. But all has been done with indolence and in-
difference with a thousand scruples and delayes. I had almost
forgott to mention one grievance we mett with here, which is
insupportable especialy on such an occasion as this. 'Tis the
encouragement given here by the people to deserters, and the
severe Acts of Parliament against land or sea forces makeing any
reprizal ; I mean to recruit and compleat their respective com-
pliments. This hardship falls very heavy on the Naval Force,
as its more frequently here and that the encouragement given by
the inhabitants to seamen is vastly great. Indeed the Govern-
ment here at the General and Admiral's desire have fallen into
such measures in appearance as would prevent the people from
concealing or enticeing away our men : but notwithstanding we
have lost above 250 : a great number considering how weak our
regiments are, and how ill our men of war are mann'd. But
these losses, delayes and lateness of the season I don't think are
sufficient reasons to induce me to change the opinion I always
had of our succeeding : so that I still firmly beleive nothing but
the navigation of the River of St. Laurents or a force from Europe
can defeat us, etc. Signed, Rich. King. l\pp. Enclosed,
46. i. Col King's Journal, May July, 1711. May 4. The Fleet
for reduceing Canada and Newfound-Land sail'd from
Plymouth. The 8th the Admiral sent back four men of
war he brought to strengthen his squadron till we gott
clear of the Capes being inform 'd that M. Ducass was
at sea with a strong squadron to fall on the Fleet, etc.
May 9th. The Mary transport was miss'd. She had
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 41
1711.
aboard her 80 soldiers of Col. Desney's Kegimt. and a
great part of its cloathing. As we had no bad weather
to separate her from the Fleet, we could not conjecture
what was become of her. May 15. The Monmouth
man of war having sprung her foremast, the Admiral left
the Swift-sure to take care of her till it could be mended :
and order'd them both to make the best of their way
afterwards to Boston. May 21. The Mary gaily,
which had on board cloathing, artillery and several
stores for the service of the Expedition Lt. General
Nicholson was to command, was detach't from the
Fleet under convoy of the Kingston man of war for New
York to deliver there to Nicholson or his order the
aforesaid stores. June 18 we miss'd 13 of the trans-
ports : and considering we had almost constantly for
ten dayes before great foggs, dirty hazy weather, and
often very stiff gales, of wind, it is surprizeing more of
them did not lose the Fleet. June 19. The Fleet
sail'd by Cape Sables and the Seal Islands. The
Admiral left off of these Islands the Mountague man of
war to convoy to Boston such of the transports as lost
the Fleet and should pass by there. The 24th in the
evening the Fleet came into Nantasket harbour. Here
it met with the Monmouth, Swiftsure, Dunkirk and all
the transports seperated from us during the voyage.
The Dunkirk lost the Fleet in giving chase to a French
sloop, which she took and brought in here loaden with
salt fish. The Humber had like to have been lost
coming into the harbour by the neglect or ignorance of
the master of the Monmouth, who placeing a bouy on
the wrong place of a shoal the Fleet should avoid in
coming in : and depending on that, pretended to steer
the ship in by it contrary to the advice of the Pilate,
so runn'd her head aground. It happen'd luckily that
the tide was almost spent, and the water very deep
abaft the ship : so that when the tide return'd, they
toad her off, not perceiving she receiv'd any damage,
etc. June 25. In the morning Deputies from the
Governour and Council came to the Fleet to compliment
the General and Admiral on their arrival. They
acquainted them that Nicholson arriv'd at Boston on
the 8th, with two men of war and two transports, which
were still in the harbour without any Instructions
when to proceed to New York, where the stores aboard
them must be deliver'd, that he was gone to New
London with the Governour the 15th to a General
Congress, etc. ; that there were two sloops under convoy
of a man of war sent to Annapolis to carry provisions
and orders for Col. Vetch to embark immeditely for
Boston with all the officers and artillery that were not
absolutely necessary for the defence of the place : and
that they had letters the 23rd from Col. Vetch, which
42 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
gave an account that Forbus the Engineer with 2
officers and 60 men fell into an embuscade of the
Indians. Forbus with one of the officers and 17 men
were kill'd and all the rest taken prisoners. This
unfortunate affair was undoubtedly perform 'd at the
instigation of the French inhabiting Accadia, who have
been very severely treated since the reduction of Anna-
polis. The 26th. Contrary winds prevented the trans-
ports from coming to Noddles Island, the place the
Governmt. here appointed the troops to encamp on.
This day the Admiral appointed a man of war to convoy
Nicholson's two transports to New York : but they not
expecting to sail suddenly from hence, were careening
as well as the men of war that came with them, and
could not be ready to sail before the 29th. This great
omission of Nicholson in not sending these ships im-
mediately away to New York was a very great morti-
fication both to our Admiral and General, knowing
how absolutely necessary it was they should be there :
the arms and cloathing for the troups that were to
march by Albany, and the presents to engage the
Five Indian Nations in our interest, being aboard them.
This day likewise a demand was made of the Govern-
ment of some stores wanting in the trayn of artillery
which were promiss'd to be provided with the utmost
expedition. June 27th. The troups landed and en-
camp'd on Noddles Island, which is a mile distant from
this town and opposite to it. This place is proper to
encamp 8000 men on, the ground dry, the water good,
and the air sweet and refreshing. Yesterday Captain
Butler of the Dunkirk was broke by a Council of War
held aboard the Admiral for giving chase without
orders to the French sloop he took ; and loseing company
of the Fleet by the said chase. The 28th. Both
yesterday and this day the General and Admiral had
several conferences with the Governour and Council.
They were in order to find out means to prevent the
merchants imposeing on us in our exchange. For they
had already unanimously agreed not to give us above
120 of this country money for 100 sterl. in London :
whereas they ever gave before from 145 to 175. That
the Governmt. here should make the utmost dispatch
in raising the troups and provideing the other necessarys
they were to furnish us, and oblige the country to bring
in provisions of all kinds to refresh our men and save
our salt provisions. They promiss'd at our arrival we
should have in the greatest plenty fresh provisions of
all sorts, but hitherto we found nothing less and were
oblig'd to our men from aboard the transports. The
result of these conferences were, that the Governmt.
should lend us 2 or 3000 of this country money to
subsist the troups till the Assembly mett, July 5th : and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 43
1711.
that pressing orders should be given to prepare with the
utmost expedition whatever this Province was to furnish,
and particularly that fresh provisions should be brought
in. The money was accordingly lent : and the orders
given as they assur'd us. At the same time the Admiral
gave in a memorial of what provisions would be necessary
for the subsistance of the troups three months ; desiring
they would give an account of what they could furnish
of it, and how they would propose to supply the rest.
This evening the two storeships for Nicholson sail'd
under convoy of the Chester man of war for New York.
The Admiral gave orders to Capt. Mathews, Commander
of this man of war, that when he had convoy'd the two
storeships so far that they could proceed to New York
in safety, he should sail to Cape Britton and cruise
betwixt that place and Placentia till our Fleet should
pass by thence. June 29th. The General order'd to
be provided with all possible diligence 30 horse with
harness, eight waggons or tombrils, and all things
necessary for their transportation. The reason he
order'd these things was grounded on the certain
information he had that there was near 100 pieces of
cannon in Quebeck : that in opposition to these it would
be necessary to make the greatest fire we could and
therefore a vast number of hands must be constantly
employ'd to draw the canon, mortars and ammunition
for that service ; which in all probability we should not
be in a condition to spare, if a great number of seamen
must always remain aboard to preserve our ships from
fireworks we were inform'd the enemy had prepar'd to
destroy them. These fireworks are said to be made on
great floats of timber, which they design to send down
with the tide to the part our fleet shall anchor at, and
as the ebb is excessively rapid and that these floats
sink near 4 foot in the water, they hope we shall not be
able to toa them clear of our ships and consequently
that they will either burn them, or oblige us to cutt our
cables to avoid them and so be drove ashore by the tide.
July 1st. The General receiv'd an express from Col.
Hunter, whereby he acquainted him that the provisions
he was to provide in his Governmt. for our troups were
ready, but that he had no man of war to convoy it
hither. Upon which an order was dispatch't to New
York for the first man of war that should arrive there to
take immediately into his care what transports with
provisions Col. Hunter should order to be deliver'd
to him, and convoy them hither with the utmost ex-
pedition. Col. Hunter's express brought likewise an
account that the Kingston man of war detach'd from
the Fleet at sea with the Mary transport was not yet
arriv'd at New York. This want of convoy for our
provisions from New York, is entirely owing to Col.
It COLONIAL PAPEKS.
1711.
Nicholson's neglect in not sending at his arrival here the
two transports with stores immediately away for New
York, under convoy of the two men of war which brought
them hither. For these were design'd to convoy to us
what provisions we were to have from thence. Thus
has he not only risqu'd dissapointing the diversion he is
to make, but even the whole expedition by detaining us
here for want of provisions, till the season is too far
advanc'd. July 2nd. It plainly appear'd the Govermnt.
here did not put in execution any of the promisses they
made us. For the bread we contracted for, to subsist
our men during our stay here, was not deliver'd. The
fresh provisions, which was to be brought in, in great
plenty, was not sufficient for the quarter of our troups.
And all other things to be provided, were brought us with
that sloath and indifference, there could be no fixing
any time when they would be finish'd. For these
reasons and that the Governmt. and Council had sent no
answer to the Admiral's memorial : the General sent the
Governour and Council a message to represent to them
our condition, and the treatment we mett with : to let
them understand how different it was from what H.M.
could reasonably expect in return for the vast expence
she had put herself to in commisseration of them.
That any one who would read their several memorials
to the Queen and her Ministry, wherein they represented
in the strongest terms the deplorable condition they
were reduc'd to by the frequent incursions of the French
and their Indian allies : by their loss of trade, and the
great expence they were at in maintaining troops to
defend their frontiers ; could not imagine they would
defeat this great effort her Majesty was so graciously
pleas'd to make in their favour by not giving provisions
and whatever else was necessary for carrying on vigor-
ously the Expedition : that H.M. could not but resent
so undutifull, so ungratefull, so unjust a return : and
that if out of her great tenderness and indulgency for
her subjects she should be inclin'd to pardon them, would
not the Parliament interpose, and beg her Majesty to
do justice ? That therefore he hop'd they would
seriously reflect on what they were doing, how far the
season was advanc'd, and the length and difficulty of
the voyage to Quebeck : that they would make pro-
portionnable dispatch with the provisions and other
things demanded of them, and lend the troups 5000
more in their bills, and settle the exchange for it at a
reasonable rate. Upon this message they lent the
5000 and issued a Proclamation to order search to be
made for all provisions fitt to be sent to sea ; that it,
and whatever ships came into the harbour with anything
that could contribute to victual us, should be secur'd for
H.M. Fleet and troups etc. (v. No. 44 iv.). July 2,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 45
1711.
3, and 4th. Diligent search was made for all the
provisions in town that were proper to carry to sea.
All they discover'd they mark'd for the Queen's service,
takeing an exact list of the quantitys of each kind and
where they were lodg'd. The 5th, this list was laid
before the Governour and Council, with a memorial
from the General and Admiral, wherein they desir'd
that they would fix the prizes of each species contain'd
in the said list : that they would order the delivery of
them immediately to our Commissarys, and settle the
exchange of money, that bills might be given for the
said provisions and what other things we should be
furnish'd with here. In the said memorial they recom-
mended to them the utmost dispatch, shewing that the
success of the expedition depended entirely on our
speedy departure from hence. This evening in com-
plyance to the said memorial they fix'd the prizes of the
provisions, and order'd them to be deliver'd to our
Commissarys : and the Assembly or Parliament of this
country (which mett here yesterday) settled the exchange
of money at 140 per cent., which is 10 or 15 per cent.
less than it usualy is at. But our necessities oblig'd
both our General and Admiral to accept of it at this
rate. July 7th we had advices from Col. Hunter that
no man of war was yet arrived to convoy to us the three
months provisions he had prepar'd for us ; that besides
this quantity he could furnish us with what wheat and
peas we should have occasion for, upon which the
General and Admiral dispatch'd an express to him to
desire him to send all the peas and wheat he could
procure along with the three months provisions : and
that if they were gone before this advice should come to
his hands, he should send them by the first opportunity
after us, and particularly that the two frigates which
were to cruise off his coast should be likewise sent, they
being absolutely necessary to assist us in our navigation
up the River of St. Laurents. The 10th the General
reveiw'd our European troups : and found that they all
amounted to 3500 effective men. This day the Admiral
came to a resolution of sending home the Devonshire
and H umber, being assur'd by all the pilots we take from
hence, that it was impossible to carry them up the River
of St. Laurents without running great risque of loseing
them. July 9, 10. 11, 12, our Commissarys and Agent
Victuallers were employ 'd in makeing the distribution
for the fleet and army of the provisions found in town,
and buying three transports to load with a sufficient
quantity of wheat, rye, and Indian corn to subsist the
troups with bread for three months. The General
order'd this corn to be provided, because that all the
provisions we should be able to gett here, would only
compleat what we had aboard to three months, and that
46 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
if any accident should prevent the provisions for New
York to join us before the River of St. Laurents should
be froze up our troups would run a great risque of
perishing before supplys could be sent them the next
sommer. July 1 1th. Capt. Cockburn, Commander of the
Saphire was sent to Annapolis for Col. Vetch and such
artillery stores and officers belonging to it as were not
absolutely necessary for the defence of the place. As
soon as he had put all things aboard at Annapolis he
had orders to return hither, provided he could do before
the 25th instant : otherwise that he should cruise off of
Cape Sables, and join the Fleet as they pass'd by there
for Canada. July 14th. Lt. General Nicholson arriv'd
here from New York and Col. Vetch from Annapolis.
The first brought an account that in 8 or 10 dayes the
troups he was to make a diversion with from Albany
would be marching towards that place. That expresses
were sent to the five Indian Nations in allyance with us,
to desire their attendance at Albany : and that he
beleiv'd they would be there before the 25th instant.
That he did not doubt but they would heartily enter into
what measures Col. Hunter and he should propose for
attacking with all their power our common enemy the
French and their allies. That he did not expect his
full compliment of troups from any of our Provinces,
especialy from New York and Pensylvania : and that
he hop'd the boats, canoes, provisions and other necess-
arys would be ready by the time the troups would
assemble. He could give no tolerable reason why he
did not on his arrival here send to New York the two
transports with stores, the want of which and a convoy
for our provisions he own'd to be a great detriment to
the whole undertakeing. Col. Vetch brought an account
that the French Indians in Accadia summon'd the Fort
at Annapolis to surrender a few dayes after they had
defeated the party he sent to cutt timber to repair it :
that they afterwards block'd it up for four dayes and
then retir'd : that the Fort was at present in a tolerable
good condition and fitt with the garrison in it to resist
any force the enemy can raise in that country against
it : and that he would have brought all the officers, men,
artillery and stores that good (= ? could) with safety be
spar'd : but that the sloop he came in was so smal, it
would not contain the quarter of them. July 17. Capt.
Harrison, General Hill's Aid de Camp arriv'd here from
New York. He was sent with the Kingston man of war
and the Mary transport detach'd from us at sea, with let-
ters and instructions for Col. Hunter and Lt. Genl. Nichol-
son : and to observe how forward they were in raising the
troups and provideing the provisions etc. He brought
an account that he only arriv'd at New York the 12th
inst. with Kingston and Mary transport being detain'd in
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 47
1711.
their passage by contrary winds calms and currants.
That Col. Hunter acquainted him that most of thetroups
to be rais' din this Government were ready: that the boats
and other necessarys prepareing for Lt. Genl. Nicholson
would be finish'd by the 21st instant : arid that now the
two storeships were arriv'd from Boston with the cloath-
ing arms etc., he hop'd to have his men and whatever
he was to provide for the expedition from Albany ready
by the latter end of this month. The 20th, all our
troups were reembark'd to prevent desertion : and to
save the salt provisions, the Agent Victuallers were
ordered to deliver fresh every two dayes. The 22nd.
All the last week we were employ'd in putting the
artillery stores and provisions aboard : in watering and
fitting out all the transports : and getting ready with
the utmost expedition the Windsor man of war appointed
for our General since it has been resolv'd to send back
the Devonshire with the Number to England : and as
it was discover'd about 12 dayes ago that one of our
transports which carry'd 300 men of Col. Kirk's regiment
was not in a condition to proceed further : two vessells
were taken up here for that purpose, and are prepareing
with all possible diligence. This day three of the
Sachems or Kings of the Five Indian nations of Iroquois
our Allies arriv'd here. They were deputed by all the
five Nations as their Plenipotentiaries to our General and
Admiral on account of the present expedition : and to
see what men of war and troups we had here for that
service. For as this Fleet did not come two year ago
and last year as they were assur'd they would, they did
now [? not] expect it or beleive it was arriv'd here.
July 23. They had their audience of our General and
Admiral. The substance of their speech was that with
much fatigue they came a great way in hot weather to
see them : that their troups were already on their march
and would be at Albany by the latter end of this month :
that the fine season would be over before we could finish
our expedition, therefore advis'd the Admiral to take of
his great canoes or men of war : and that as they were
now assur'd we design'd to prosecute vigorously the
war against the French and their allies, they would
heartily employ all their force in our assistance as good
friends and brothers. The General and Admiral treated
them with great civility : made them presents in the
usual manner : gave them all imaginable assurances
of the Queen's protection and the great esteem she had
for their nations : shew'd them our troops and fleet :
and did all they could to imprint in them great ideas
of the Queen and make them long to be under her
Governmt., and to be fellow subjects with those men
that they saw command armys and fleets so vastly
superior to any ideas they ever had before of either.
48 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
The 24th, the New England troups embark'd tho'
their transports were very far from being ready to re-
ceive them. No sailors aboard : and except provisions
and water, beds and all other necessarys were in a
manner wanting. The reluctancy and ill nature that
these people shew'd to serve us and forward the Ex-
pedition upon all occasions before : did not near so
fully demonstrate their perverse and wicked intentions
as this great neglect : it being evident to anybody that
has seen this country, that they could fitt out and
man twice the number of vessells they were to furnish
for this Expedition in much less time than they have had
to do it in. Therefore I can't imagine what their
designs could be by all these delayes if they were not
to delay us here, till the advanc'd season of the year will
probably defeat us. And what almost confirms me in
this opinion is, that it's certain that those who rule and
proffitt by their present dissorderly Governmt. now see
how reasonable it is to change : that the conquest of
Canada will naturaly lead the Queen into it : and shew
her how absolutely necessary it is to put all this Northern
Continent of America under one form of Government
for the real good of the present Coloneys: for the estab-
lishing of others : for their mutual support : and the vast
advantages that will thereby accrue to great Brittain.
One of the three men of warr we have now cruising be-
twixt Cape Britton and Newfoundland took the 12th inst.
a French vessell of 14 guns and 120 tunn, loaded with
wine, brandy and bale goods, and sent her in here.
She brought an account that she left France June 9th
in company with two other merchant men all bound for
Quebeck. That off of Rochelle they join'd a fleet of
theirs of 15 men of war and about 20 merchant men
commanded by Monsieur De Guy. This fleet they
kept company with till they were about 100 leagues off
of Cape Finistre, when they directed their course to
the westward for Quebeck ; the fleet keeping a southerly
course. Monsieur De Guy had not open'd his last
orders when they left him : but all people concluded he
was bound for Barbados, Jamaica, or Brazil, tho' some
private letters taken aboard this prize say possitively
that he is to come to this country if he can't releive
Quebeck, which they suppose in France already lost.
Nine of the 15 men of war are ships betwixt 50 and 76
guns. The prize and the two merchant men which
came out of France with her, had each of them 30
recruits aboard for the troups in Canada. July 26th.
This country gaily came in here, and brought under her
convoy from New York seven sloops loaded with pro-
visions, which we have distributed aboard our trans-
ports. July 29th. Some officers arriv'd here from
Annapolis and brought letters for our General from
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 49
1711.
Sir C. Hobby, Depty-Governour of it : wherein he
inform 'd him that he call'd a Council of War upon the
receival of his letters sent him by the Saphire, for the
marines, and all the officers and ammunition that was
not necessary for the defence of his garrison ; that the
majority of the Council of War was of opinion that the
marines could not be sent away without endangering the
loss of the place : that therefore he kept the said marines
and 100 men of the New England troups which were sent
to releive them. The stores that were order 'd to be sent
Sir Charles takes no notice of in his letter : but the
officers who came from thence assure us, he sent none.
Wherefore Col. Vetch being of opinion that 100 of the
marines and a great part of the artillery stores (which
we realy wanted) could be well spar'd ; our General
and Admiral order'd Capt. Southwyck, Commander of
the New England gaily, to sail with a brigantine to
Annapolis, for them ; and that as soon as he had put
them aboard he should follow the Fleet with all diligence.
And as the New England transports were mann'd out of
the said gaily, Governour Dudley was desired to be
aiding in remanning her with the utmost expedition.
And least Sir Charles Hobby should again evade sending
the aforesaid marines and stores, possitive orders were
now sent him by Capt. Southwyck for the delivery of
both. July 30th. Having at last gott all our Fleet
victuall' d for 3 months, and the New England transports
mann'd, we all sail'd out of Nantasket or Kingroad
Harbour with a fair gale at S.S.W. to pursue our ex-
pedition. This morning several merchants at Boston
had advice from Barbados that Monsieur De Guy was
arriv'd with his squadron at Martinico. Lt. General
Nicholson was to sett out this day from Boston, for
New York, and thence to Albany, where his troops were
assembling to make the diversion. As we had advice
on Saturday that the boats, provisions, and all other
necessarys for the said troups were ready, 'tis probable
he will be at Lac St. Pierre by the time we shall gett to
Quebeck, which will effectualy answer the design of his
expedition. Aug. 3rd. We sail'd by Cape Sables with
all our fleet. The IQth the Saphire join'd the Fleet off
of Cape Britton. Capt. Cockburn, Commander of her,
brought an account that Annapolis was still block'd
up by the French and Indians : that Sr. C. Hobby had
made a sorty on them but to no great purpose : and
that he could neither gett the marines or stores he was
order'd to bring from thence for the reasons Sir Charles
sent before. He brought likewise an account that the
Chester and Leopard men of war, which were to join the
Fleet off of Cape Britton, were watring in Spanish
River : that the Chester took a sloop belonging to Placen-
tia, which gave intelligence that they were all appriz'd
Wt. 26089. C.P. 4.
50 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
there of our arrival at Boston : that they were under
the greatest apprehensions of being attack'd, tho' they
were assur'd our design was against Canada : that they
had sent several sloops to Quebeck to give Monsieur Vau-
dreul the Governour timely notice to be on his guard :
and that several ships were coming from Provence
to his releif. The llth. The Admiral resolv'd not to
send home the Devonshire and Humber off of Cape
Britton as he first design'd : but to take them with us to
the Island of St. Paul ; and there leave them to cruize
20 dayes betwixt that place and Cape Ray before they
return'd. And that he might have an account of all
occurrences they should meet with, he left them the
prize sloop to send after him to Quebeck when they left
their cruize. The reason the Admiral came to a resolu-
tion of ordering these two men of war to cruise, was that
he might by that means take along with him the two
men of war, which he should otherwise be oblig'd to
leave cruising at the mouth of the River St. Lauren ts.
The 12th. The Chester and Leopard join'd us betwixt
Spanish River and St. Paul's Island. 29 pp. [C.O.
5, 898. Nos. 11, 111]
July 26. 47. Address of the General Assembly of New York to the
Queen. Being sensible in the highest degree of the many blessings
wee have enjoyed dureing your Majesties most happy and glorious
reign, wee humbly take this occasion to tender your Majestic
our due acknowledgments and hearty thanks for the same and
in particular for your Majesties great grace and favour in the
present Expedition to reduce Cannada and Newfoundland
entirely to your Majesties subjection and dominion, which as its
grounded not only on the many wrongs, injuries and losses
sustained by your Majesties good subjects from those French
incroachments but in the vast advantages will acrew to the
Brittish Empire on the success of the undertakeings is an un-
deniable proof of your Majesties great prudence and inimitable
goodness to and care of all your subjects. Wee do not fail in
useing our utmost endeavors in contributing towards attaineing
the desired end (which with the favour of Allmighty God) seems
indisputable and its our hearty prayers this and many other
conquests may be added to your Majestic with a long and pros-
perous reign. Signed, W. Nicoll, Speaker. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1091.
No. 40.]
July 26. 48. Address of the General Assembly of New York to the
Queen. Wee your Majesties most dutiful and loyall subjects of
your Colony and Plantation of New York in America in Generall
Assembly con vein 'd and mett, most humbly crave leave to offer
to your Majesties most royall consideration. That not only during
the whole course of the late and present warr with France this
Colony has been greatly burthen'd with extraordinary levy's
for it's defence against the common enemy, but the charges of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
51
1711.
the ordinary support of the Government has been very great
and exorbitant in proportion wth. the Colonys adjacent. That
this your Plantation (tho' one of the least in your Majesties
Dominions in America) has long labour'd under many hardships
and difficulties, by reason whereof our trade is decay'd, the rents
of houses and lands decreased, the little wealth it possest and
the best and most industrious of its inhabitants drein'd into the
neighbouring Colonys, induced by the ease and indulgence of
the Government in those parts. That in the last intended attempt
on Canada, induc'd by the commands of your Majty. and the
solid reason of the design, wee not only chearfully supplied our
proporcon of men allotted, tho' very unequal 1 to our neighbours
(Connecticut having twice as many and New Jersey an equall
number of people) but solely bore the charge of victualling the
five Nations and all other Indians, your Majtie's. standing fforces,
the building and making all the battoes and canoes, and many
other incidentall charges too many to enumerate to your Majesty.
That in the present expedition (to which Almighty God grant
good success) altho' wee are very sencible of the vast dispro-
portion of the men and money required of us compar'd with those
in favour of our neighbours, yet with all alacrity wee are doing
out utmost to obey your Royall commands, tho' our extream
poverty and inability obstructs our inclinations to fulfill them
as wee desire. The disadvantages wee sink under its our appre-
hension must proceed from the sinister insinuations made to our
prejudice, the misrepresentation of the state and condicon of
this Colony by such who find it their interest to be our enemys,
and the want of a person fitly authorized and enabled to speak
and act for us at your Majty's. Court and upon all occasions to
appear in our behalf and answer to such matters and things as
may concern this Colony. Wee therefore are most humble
suitors to your most sacred Majestic that graciously weighing our
present and past circumstances you will please to accept of our
most hearty endeavours as farr as wee are able, and that wherein
wee are deficient, your Majesties Royall commisseration, clemency
and bounty will supply the defects, and grant us such farther
releif as is agreeable to your Majesties great goodness and justice,
etc. Signed, By order of the Genii. Assembly, W. Nicoll, Speaker.
1 large p. [C.O. 5, 1091. No. 42.]
49. Mr. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. The
Council of Trade and Plantations have examined into the matter
of the Robinson frigate. It appears to their Lordships that the
words have been rased as Mr. Spotswood observes, (v. July 17,
and 20th). [C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 329, 330 ; and (roivgh draft)
5, 1335. p. 126.]
July 26. 50. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Repre-
Whitehall. sentation upon the petition of Lord Baltimore (v. Feb. 7, March 10,
July 21). We have heard his Lordship by his Counsell, as also
Mr. Solicitor Generall in behalf of your Majesty, whereupon we
humbly represent, that it appears that in 1689 severall articles
July 26.
Whitehal.
52
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
July 26.
Whitehall.
July 27.
Whitehall.
July 27.
Boston.
July 28.
Nevis.
July 28.
Virginia.
of complaints were exhibitted by the inhabitants of that Province
against his Lordship and his officers. Quote preamble to Col.
Copley's Commission 1691. v. July 21 supra. Whereupon we
are humbly of oppinion that it will best conduce to the safety of
that Province, and to the alaying the fears and quieting the minds
of the people there, to continue the Government, as now it is,
under a Governor of your Majestye's immediate appointmt., at
leastwise during the present war, and till the dangers and in-
conveniencies which may arise from any new alteration be more
fully removed. [C.O. 5, 727. pp. 291293.]
51 . Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. The Council of
Trade and Plantations concurr with you in your report upon the
petition of Lord Baltimore, (v. July 21) and have this day signed
a representation to H.M. conformable thereto. [C.O. 5, 727.
p. 294.]
52. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor Ben-
net. Enclose warrant of July 10 relating to Day's house, with
instructions to proceed accordingly. [C.O. 38, 7. p. 20.]
53. Brigadier General Hill to Lord Dartmouth. Encloses
and recommends following. Signed, J. Hill. Enclosed,
53. i. Memorial of Col. Whitney, Capt. Bartlett and Ensign
Cocksedge to General Hill. The above were wounded
and taken prisoner in the fighting about Annapolis
Royal. Pray for relief in the matter of ransom etc.
Signed, Willm. Whiting, John Bartlett, John Cocksedge.
The truth of the above testified by Sam. Vetch. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 9. Nos. 7, 8.]
54. Lt. General Hamilton to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. The great hurry and fatague I have had whilst I was
at the head of this Government by frequently pursuing the
enemy, whilst I had the man of war to attend me, has bin the
occasion I could not send home the severall acts past for the
sundry Islands in my time, which as soon as I had any leasure
I sent to the sundry Deputy Secretarys for and now transmit
them to your Lordships for H.M. royal approbation etc. I have
sent the coppy of your letter relateing St. Christophers to the Lt.
Governour of that Island. I am but just arrived at this Island,
so have nothing to ad at present. Signed, W. Hamilton. En-
dorsed, Reed., Sept. 28, Read Nov. 27, 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9.
No. 90; and 153, 11. pp. 403, 404.]
55. Lt. Governor Spots wood to Lord Dartmouth. Repeats
concluding portions of July 25 q.v. Upon advice that some
of the chief of Mr. Gary's factions were come into this countrey,
the Council advis'd the issuing a Proclamation for apprehending
them till they should give security for their good behaviour, for
no Governmt. can be safe that has in it such dangerous incen-
diarys etc. Signed, A. Spotswood. 3pp. [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 12.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 53
1711.
July 30. 56. Order of Queen in Council. Appointing John Carver to
Windsor, the Council of Jamaica. Signed, John Povey. 1% pp. [C.O. 5,
11. No. 67.]
July 30. 57. Order of Queen in Council. Approving of Edward Hyde
Windsor, as Governor of North Carolina, provided he qualify himself and
give security as proposed July 12. Signed, John Povey. En-
dorsed, Reed. Aug. 25, Read Oct. 23, 1711. 1| pp. [C.O. 5,
1204. No. 121 ; and 5, 1292. pp. 321, 322.]
July 30. 58. Order of Queen in Council. Referring enclosed to the
Windsor. Council of Trade and Plantations for their opinion. Signed,
John Povey. Endorsed, Reed. Aug. 10, Read Sept. 12, 1711.
1^ pp. Enclosed,
58. i. Address of the Minister, Churchwardens and Vestry
of the Church of St. Mary in Bridlington, New Jersey,
to the Queen. Most dread Sovereign, The transcendent
affection to and care of the Protestant Religion and
Church of England that your Majty. hath at all times
and on all occasions given the greatest assurance of and
more especially in your late speech to your Parliamt.
emboldens us your Majty's. dutyfull and loyall subjects
to lay in the most humble manner the following Address
at your Majty's. feet. We have by too fatall experience
found that the admission of Quakers into offices of the
highest trust in the Governmt. such as the Councill and
Assembly hath very much retarded your Majty's. service,
obstructed the peace of the Province, and above all
extreamly dampt the increase and progress of the doc-
trine and discipline of the best of Churches, the Church
of England. But what can hinder the intire ruin of our
Church and State, if these enemys of both, who never
want the will when they have the opportunity to hurt
us be empowered by a law to destroy our religion,
lives, liberty s, reputations and estates at their pleasure.
The danger of wch. has of late been but too apparent
from the cunning address and interest of the Quakers
of this present Assembly, who procured a Bill to be
passed in the house of Representatives (ten of that per-
swasion being then sitting members there) to enable them
to give evidence in criminall causes, serve on any jurys,
and enjoy places of profit and trust in the Governmt.,
wch. being so contrary to the laws and statutes of your
Majty's. Kingdom of Great Britain, was to the great satis-
faction of your Majty's. good and loyall subjects the
members of the Church of England rejected by your
Majty's. Councill here. And tho' we should not pre-
sume to intermeddle in the affairs of another Province,
especially in their making of Laws, if they had not too
great an influence on the temper, humour, and inclina-
tions of a great number of the inhabitants of this your
Majty's. Colony, yet our common safety requiring our
54 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
utmost opposition to whatsoever may endanger those
things we justly think most dear and valuable to our-
selves and our posterity, we further crave leave to
acquaint your Majty. that the Quakers have lately past
an Act in our neighbouring Colony of Pensylvania con-
stituting a new form of protestation repugnant to the
afirmation enjoyned them by Act of Parliamt. in Great
Britain in which the name of God is entirely omitted
thereby slighting the indulgence the laws have allowed
them and setting up for themselves, doing whatsoever
seems good in their own eyes. How far such dangerous
and pernicious practices may tend to the destruction
of the very being of our constitution of Government,
and what security we have for the enjoyment of our
undoubted rights and priviledges either ecclesiasticall
or civill we most humbly submitt to your Majty's.
most wise and just determination, not in the least
doubting but the rays of your Royal benignity will
equally shine on us in this distant wilderness with the
rest of your Majt's. subjects to our great satisfaction
and comfort, etc. etc. Signed, Hu. Huddy, Dan. Coxe,
Tho. Revell, J. Bass, John Talbot, Alexander Griffith,
Daniell Leeds, George Willis, John Lammell. Copy.
3 pp. [C.O. 5, 1264. Nos. 118, 118 i. ; and 5, 1292.
pp. 315-319.]
July 30. 59. H.M. Warrant, granting to George Clarke, Secretary of
Windsor. New York, leave of absence for one year, etc. Countersigned,
Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. p. 101.]
[? July 31.] 60. Lt. Governor Spotswood to [? Lord Dartmouth.] Since
my letter of 28th current, I received information that Col. Gary
and some of the principal ringleaders in the late disturbances in
Carolina were come to this place : whereupon not judging it
consistent with the peace of this Governmt. to suffer such in-
cendiary s to remain here, I thought fitt to examine them touching
their intentions in coming into this Government. They alledged
they came hither to gett a passage for England, that they might
justify themselves before the Lords Proprietors for what they had
done ; but withall refused to give any security to answer there ;
and finding so much shuffling and evasion in all their discourses,
as plainly show'd they intended nothing less than to stand a
tryal ; I have thought fitt to send them home by the men of war
of this convoy, that they may be made accountable for their
actions either before the Lords Proprietors of Carolina or in such
other manner as H.M. shal think fitt. I have directed the
Commodore upon his arrival in England to give your Lordp.
immediate notice, and wait your directions for the disposal of the
prisoners. And I must humbly offer my opinion, that if measures
are not taken to discourage such mutinous spirits, especially
when they are so audacious as to take up arms, and even to
confederate with savages, it may prove a dangerous example to
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 55
1711.
the rest of H.M. Plantations. Signed, A. Spotswood. 2 pp
[C.O. 5, 1337. No. 13.]
July 31. 61 . Brig. General Hill to Lord Dartmouth. Sir Hovenden
From on board Walker having thought fitt to send home the Devonshire and
ndsor // wm ^ er f rom this place, I take that occasion to acquaint you
with our safe arrivall in Nantaskett Road June 24th 'with all the
men of warr and transports, except one which had two companys
of Col. Desneys Regiment and their cloathing on board, that lost
company with the fleet before wee gott the length of Scilly. The
troops landed in much better condition then wee expected, after
a voyage of eight weeks, and those which had been embarqued
the longest were in as good health as the others ; I referr you to
the Admirall for a particular account of our passage, and to the
inclosed copy of that part of my Journall which relates to our
transactions with the Government, and inhabitants of Boston,
concerning provisions etc., which have been attended with more
difficultys and disappointments than are proper to transmitt to
you at this distance. It was unlucky that Mr. Nicholson did not
arrive in North America, with notice of the intended Expedition
before June 8th last, which would not only have been a great
advantage in the timely preparation of provisions, but also put
H.M. affairs into such a posture as would have secured them from
the present necessity of being a prey to the marchants of North
America. Refers to Journal. The first offer the marchants of
Boston made was 120 of their country money for 100 sterling,
and in severall dayes distance between whiles, came up, by ten
pounds at a time to 140, after they found nobody would conive
at or share with them in their exorbitant gain on the publick's
necessity ; which the Assembly established by regulating the
exchange on that foot, and voting a loane of 40,000 to be struck
in their paper money, to be advanced for subsisting the troops
etc. as there should be occasion ; this was the effect of many days
solicitation, and I had the good fortune to carry the point, but
few hours before Col. Hunter informed me from New York, that
the Councill of that Colony would not come up to above 130 p. c.,
which he was obliged to close with, or leave the service undone.
But this 10 p.c. which wee have gained upon the New England
people, more than the exchange settled at New York, wee are
obliged to part with to the troops, in that share of the
loane which goes to the payment of their subsistance, who,
according to the practice at home and in Holland, are payd their
full pay, without discount of tallys or deduction of exchange, so
are obliged to pay them at the rate of 150 p.c., which could in
no wise be avoided, for upon paying their subsistance in English
money, when they landed, before wee could gett paper money from
the country, they found an English shilling, which specie they
had a right to be payd in, went currantly for 18 pence, and I
thought it intirely for the service to reserve the little English
money I brought from England with me for the many necessary
uses we should have for it in a siege, in so distant a country, in
case wee should not be so happy as to be supply 'd from home
56 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
with specie, or find some expedient to answer the want of coin'd
money at Quebeck. Many letters have pass'd between Col.
Hunter and myself during my stay at Boston touching the
levys and procurement of provisions in his and the neighbouring
Governments, ordered by our Instructions for three months for
the Brittish troops, but I rinding that wee must expect the great-
est part of the pork from Virginia and Maryland, and only flower,
biskett and butter from New York, all which he could only
bespeak after he had notice of the Expedition, was of opinion it
could not possibly be sent time enough to us at Boston, or before
it would, it would be "too late to go to Quebeck, therefore con-
sidering this and the many rubbs he mett with and the great
uncertainty of his getting the other species of victualls, made me
resolve to gett all the provision I could in New England, at the
most reasonable price the Government would establish, and to
make the best of my way to Canada, choosing rather to leave
our future supply to Providence and the care of Col. Hunter (who
on all occasions, to do him justice, has shewn an uncommon zeal
and indefatigable application for the service of the expedition)
than to be a day too late in putting to sea. You will agree with
me that this was the only expedient wee could find to retrieve
the misfortune of Mr. Nicholson's late ariivall in these parts,
especially when I tell you that Col. Hunter acquainted me not
many dayes before wee say led from Boston, which was the 30th
of this month, that the Colony of Maryland had baulked him,
the Councill refusing to order the Receivers to part wth. the
money in their hands, and wee had only eight small sloops loads,
which came from New London two days before wee sayled, of
all the provisions wee expected from Col. Hunter, the rest being
to follow, so if extraordinary means had not been used to find
out hidden provisions at Boston, wee must have stay'd for Col.
Hunter's, and the season being already farr advanced, the con-
sequence might have been fa tall. When I came from Boston I
left it in charge with the Governour, to procure a certain quantity
of beef, pork and pease in lieu of that wch. should have been
bought up in Maryland, to send after us in all the month of October
which is the longest time of the year that the River of St. Lau-
rence is open, and I have desired Col. Hunter to correspond with
and assist him in it, I having left an officer to solicite the matter
at Boston. In obedience to the 4th Art. of my Instructions,
I detached the Mary transport, and the Admirall sent the Kings-
ton with her to New York, where she arrived very late, (v. Journal
enclosed), but I hope not too late to supply the New York people
with arms etc., nor the Indians with H.M. presents, the compleat
number of the former being raised, and Col. Hunter having made
up the 4 independent companys with Palatines into a Regiment,
they will be marching from Albany towards the Wood Creek,
much about the time that wee gett to the mouth of the River,
as Col. Nicholson and I have concerted it. Col. Vetch being at
Annapolis when I arrived at Boston, I gott the Admirall to send
the Saphire with two companys of New England men to relieve
the marines, who are reduced to a small number, by reason of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 57
1711.
the French and Indians having killed and taken a party of the
garrison lately, and therefore I desired but 100, tho' the 8th
Article of my Instructions enjoyns me not only to take all the
marines, but such other men as may be proper for service, putting
others leveyd in New England to serve in the garrison in their
stead. I desired likewise that such Cahorne mortars and ordnance
stores as could be spared might be sent at the same time ; but
Coll. Vetch was come away in the country sloop before the
Saphire arrived at Annapolis, and Sir Charles Hobby, who was
appointed Deputy Governour, has thought fitt to disobey my
orders, in not sending the marines, Cohorne mortars or ordnance
stores, aledging many groundless reasons, which Col. Vetch says
are every one false, for excuse ; so I have thought it for the
service to repeat my orders to him, for sending the marines etc.,
by another of the country vessells. Refers to enclosure ii. q.v. I
have for the present consented to this method, till H.M. pleasure
be further known, since the Government can be no loser thereby.
You will also receive a prented declaration by way of manifesto
in favour of the French and Indians in Canada and Nova Scotia,
who shall peaceably submitt to H.M. Wee have lost some men
by death since our landing, and the people of the country by
favouring and concealing the escape of deserters, have, for their
own advantage, in spite of all the care that could be taken,
seduced too many of our men, which could not be recruited
because of the great price of labour in the Colonys : and as for
restraining the men in their dyet according to the 5th Article of
my Instructions, there was no need of it, because their pay was
but just sufficient to afford them common refreshment, meat
being raised to 3d. in the pound, and every thing else in proportion,
for the people of the country could by no perswasion be brought
to settle a markett. I may venture to say one thing more in
relation to that Art., that troops were never guilty of less dis-
orders than these have been in New England, for I heard of none
in prejudice of the country ; some negroes indeed listed themselves
voluntarily to serve, which the officers were willing to entertain
in lieu of the men that had been stol'n from them, but upon
application I imediately ordered them to be discharged. Wee
sayl'd yesterday morning with a favourable wind from Nantaskett
Road, towards the River St. Lawrence, where wee hope to be in
a few dayes. I pray leave to referr you to Admirall Walker for
an account of the navigation of that River, and all other matters
relating to his element. And the accounts wee have had of the
strength and scituation of the town of Quebeck, differing so
much from one another, I leave it to Coll. King who can give you
the best information. I have directed the Deputy Paymaster
to draw on the Paymaster of the forreigne troops for 23,889
155. Id. sterl. P.S. I fear it will be so late in the year before
Quebeck is over that wee can attempt nothing on Placentia.
Signed, J. Hill. 12 pp. Enclosed,
61. i. General Hill's Journal, June 25 July 29. June 25,
1711. The fleet and transports under command of
Sr. Hovenden Walker having come to an anchor over-
58 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
night in Nantaskett Bay, within two leagues of Boston,
the Secretary of the Province of New England with a
Committee of the Councill in the absence of ye Governor
came this morning on board the Devonshire, and in-
vited the Brigadier to the town of Boston, were he and
the Admirall we[re] received with the ceremonys usuall
on such occasions, this day no Councill was held but the
Brigadier was informed that Francis Nicholson, Lt.
General of the Forces raising in America arrived here
with the Leopard and Saphire and the Joseph and
Neptune transports ye 8th of this month and that all those
ships were here as yett, and no order given for their sail-
ling to New York, the Leopard being now a cleaning and
the Saphire but just clean'd, was thought to be a great
part of the reason of this unaccountable delay, which was
attended with the ill circumstance of the Brigadr.
hearing nothing from New York of the arrivall of the
Kingston and Mary transport laden with stores etc. for
the use of the forces to be raised in that and the neigh-
.bouring Governments, however that no more time might
be lost it was imediately agreed that the Sunderland
should forthwith saile with the two transports to New
York, which transports were to bring back as much of
the provissions f urnisht by that Province as they could
carry. The Brigadr. was likewise informed that the
flat-bottom'd boats and other things, mention'd in Col.
Dudley's Instructions necessary for disembarking the
troops and carrying on a seige we[re] getting ready at
Boston, etc., and he ordered the Coll. of ye Train, Mr.
King, to take upon him ye direction of that work.
This above-mentioned Comittee told the Brigadr. that
they had received an account, that a considerable number
of the Garrison of Annopolis Roy all was lately killed, and
taken prisoners by the French and Indians, and that of
two sloops lately sent thither with letters and pro-
vissions one was return'd for want of convoy, upon wch.
the Comittee who in the afternoon attended the Brigadr.,
desired that a man of war might be imediately sent, with
such of the New England forces as were design'd to
relieve the marines of that Garrison, which forces they
say'd would be ready to parade on Satturday next, the
Brigadr. agreed thereto, and the Admirall being present
say'd he would order the Saphire being a clean ship to
perform this service, and when shee had taken the
marines on board, her Capt. should be directed to meet
the Fleet off Cape Brittaiii in its way to the River of
St. Lawrence. The Brigadr. was told that one Monsr.
Larone, being sent from Placentia with a flagg of Truce
to this Government, was confin'd a close prisoner to the
Castle on the Island. June 26. The Secretary of the Pro-
vince and a Comittee of Councill attended the Brigadr. this
morning, who told him it was absolutely necessary that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 59
1711.
Col. Vetch and Col. Whiten now at Annopolis should be
forthwith sent for, they being very much wanted here,
and they having no other way to bring them but by
a man of warr, they desired one might be sent. Accord-
ingly the Brigadr. writt to ye Admirall on that subject,
they also represented the danger that Annapolis was
in, by reason a French man of war had lately gon into
an adjacent port to clean, and that one of our men of
warr would on that occasion give great countenance to
the Garrison, which they apprehended had not as yett
any account of the arrivall of the fleet and land forces
in America. June 27. Governor Dudley attended the
Brigr. this day with the Minutes of the Councill of Warr
lately held at New London in pursuance of H.M. In-
structions, and the troops were this afternoon landed
and encamped on Nodles Island. June 28. The
Brigr. and the Admill. were present at a Councill called
by Coll. Dudley to whom it was represented that the
Brittish troops being landed, they would be in want of
fresh provissions, as well for their refreshment, as to save
the salt provissions, which was found at present very
scarce in these provinces, and the Brigadr. having spoke
to some merchants to furnish ready money for carrying
on this service, had found them so unreasonable in their
demands that he was obliged to have recourse to the
Government for redress ; after some debate it was agreed
that 3000 should be lent for the use of the forces out
of the Treasury of the Province, to suply the present
necessity, till such time as proper measures could be
taken, either to bring the merchants to reason, or to
suply the troops, by such methods as the Genii. As-
sembly could fall upon, they being sumoned to sett in a
few days. June 29. This day the Brigadeer din'd with
the Governour at his house at Roxborough, and he
presented to him one Mr. Harman, a Lieutenant in
the American troops, who was just come from Canada,
and gave a pretty, distinct account of the scituation and
strength of Quebeck, where he had been a prisoner
for months. June 30. This morning the Governour
visited the Brigadr., who represented to him the fatall
consequence that might attend the delay wee meet with
here, and if some sudden course was not taken to curbe
the avarice and underhand practices of some perticular
persons who had since our arrivall clogg'd the procure-
ment of provissions and money, which should have been
taken care of before, he had reason to apprehend the
troops would not gett away from hence before it was too
late to put H.M. comands in execution at Quebeck.
This day the merchants of the town, who ever since our
arrivall had insisted upon the hard terms of giving but
120 of this country money for 100 sterl., sent a
message to the Brigadier, that they would give 130.
60 COLONIAL PAPEKS.
1711.
July 1. The Governour attended the Brigadier and
told him that the forces to be raised in this Province were
drawing toward their radezvous at this place, upon
wch. the Coll. of the train and Comissary of the stores
and provissions were severally dirrected to issue ye
arms, accoutrements, and cloathing for the officers and
soldiers, as of H.M. free gift, but that 110 person might
share of the Queen's bounty, that was not quallified for
it, all the arms and cloathing were to be delivered to the
Governour, or such person as he should direct to receive
them, and not to be deliver'd to the forces but upon
producing certificate from Col. Twiszleton of each Capts.
effective men after a strickt review, and if any of the
arm, accoutremt. and cloathing remained after the forces
were equipped, they were to be accounted for by ye
Governour. This day Major Livingston, who was
recomanded to the Brigadier by Coll. Hunter for a very
usefull person, attended, and Coll. King being sent for
with a map of the River St. Lawrence and Quebeck, the
said Livingston was asked severall questions about the
scituation and works of Quebeck, and was thought to
give a very good account of it. July 2. The Brigadr.
ordered Col. King and Mr. Gordon to acquaint the
Councill that he had information given him, that some
merchants and others had provissions in store, which they
concealled for the present to put him under a necessity
of takeing them off their hands at any rate, that he
was very uneasy under so many disappointments, and
that no care was taken neither for supplying the troops
upon Nodles Island with fresh provissions, nor making
any provission for their future subsistance, and it was
now high time to tell them plainly, that if any thing
miscarryd for want of their assistance which they in their
repeated memorialls had offered to the Queen, and wch.
H.M. now expected, it must be layd to their charge that
had not exerted themselves in their stations, upon this
extraordinary occasion the Councill' not sitting they
deliver'd this message to the Secretary of the Province,
who said he would get them sumon'd as soon as possible.
It was proposed yt. Proclamation should be made for
all persons to bring in their fresh provissions and that
a strict search should be made throughout the Province
for salt provissions ; especially pork, with a penalty
on all persons that should directly or indirectly conceall
what provissions they had in store ; accordingly the
Governr. issued a Proclamation next day, directing
Wm. Clark and Francis Clark, two merchants of Boston,
with such officers as the Brigadier should think fitt,
to make search for provissions, but there was no penalty
for any person endeavouring to make a monopoly, as
was proposed. July 3. The Brigadier ordered Mr.
Nutmaker, the Comissary of the Stores, and Major
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 61
1711.
Allen to accompany the two Mr. Clarks, and accordingly
they found the severall quantity and species afloat and
ashore mentioned in the account annexed to ye Brig-
adier's Memorial] to the Governour and ( 'ouncill of the
6th inst., and that they should from time to time make
report to Mr. Gordon, who had the direction of what
quantity of provissions could be gott together ashore or
afloat and the care of getting it into one great magazin,
in order to its being shipt off with all possible expedition
for the use of the ships of warr, land forces and New
England troops all under one, and upon shipping off
the distribution to be made of the whole aboard the
transports, ships of warr etc., according to the proposition
allowed for each service. July 4. The Brigadier was
invited to a Commencement at the College at Cambridge,
near Boston, where he assisted for no other reason than
to put the people of the Colony in humour to comply
with the present necessary demands of the troops, and
they seemed to show a generall satisfaction, for in spite
of the false reports that were spread of the small-pox
being in the camp, it was observed they brought in
sufficient quantity s of all sorts of provissions after this,
which in some measure put a stop to so many soldiers
coming to Boston to by provissions as had done formerly,
and consequently they had not so many opportunitys
of drinking rhum to excess, which had thrown severall
of them into violent feavours, that were now the only
distempers which appeared to be in the hospital!.
July 5. This day Coll. Twizelton review'd Capt. Lyon
and Capt. Brown's Companyes of New England men of
50 each and they were cloathed, and arm'd in order to
be sent in the Saphire to relieve the marines in Annapolis,
and Coll. Dudley, who had receiv'd the cloaths accoutre-
ments and arms for the New England forces, gave the
charge of them to Coll. Townsend and Mr. , and the
officers' cloaths were given to Mr. Mines to make,
the Brigadier haveing order'd one of the remaining suitts
to be delivered to Major Livingston. Mr. Nutmaker,
and Major Allen reported to Mr. Gordon that they had
found severall quantitys of provissions concealed in
town, and had been on board some ships lately come from
the other Collonys wth. corn etc., and Mr. Gordon
desired a perticular accot. in whose custody it was and
the quantity, that application might be made to the
Government to secure it for ye Queen's use. July 6.
This day the Brigadier and the Admirall presented a
joynt memoriall annexing the account of provissions
found on shore and afloat, the entry of both is made in
the Brigadier's books. Whereupon the Governour in
Councill order'd that the exchange should be regulated
at 40 per cent and settled the price of severall species
of provissions as appears by their Minute. July 7.
62 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Mr. Nutmaker and Major Allen reported to Mr. Gordon
that severall of the townspeople were so enraged at
the order of the Governour and Councill for settling the
price of provissions that they threatned to stave it and
that they had of themselves layd 3d. per gallon more
on rhuin than the said order directed, etc. However
they had made such a disposition as they hoped with
the assistance of packers and coopers they could gett
it on board in a few days. This day Mr. Gordon waited
on the Governour in Councill and it was agreed, since
no price could be putt upon wine, that sworn teasters
might be employed to come as near as they could to the
present value of the quantity, which the Queen should
have occasion for, and that Mr. Lilly's warehouse
should be the generall magazine for the provissions after
they were visited and repacked. And whereas consider-
able quantitys of each specie would be still wanting
it was thought adviseable to buy three vessells loaden
with corn and carry them with us, the said vessells to
be prized by some masters of ships and the boatswain
of the Edgar whom the Admiral! had made Master
Attendant, with their hulls, apparell, and furniture and
cargos, according to the settled price upon corn. July 8.
This being Sunday, nobody would do any work, tho'
the troops were in want of bread. July 9. Major
Allen and Mr. Nutmaker acquainted Mr. Gordon that
the Admirall had appointed Mr. Horton and Mr. Watson,
two pursers, his agent-victuallers to contract for the
3 months' provissions for the land forces as well as an
equall proportion for the sea, that those Agents were
going on in the method formerly prescribed, and bills
were to be drawn on the Commrs. for Victualling the
Navy in England, but since all species of provissions
could not be compleated, the Brigadier gave orders for
buying up the 3 small ships loaden with wheat, rye,
Indian corn, and flower to make up what should be
wanting. July 10. This day the Brittish troops were
review'd on Nodles Island and the Brigadier found them
in good order and pretty healthy, there not being above
100 in the hospitall, who were most of them in a good
way of recovery. The Colonells of some of the regiments
began to complain that the people of the country had
debauched several! of their soldiers and favoured their
disertion, and therefore to make up their loss they were
obliged to list their negroes who had volluntarely entered
themselves to serve the Queen. July 11. This day
nothing matteriall hapened, only the Brigadier pickt
on the 3 ships laden with wheat etc., which were to be
bought (viz.) the Adventure of 90 tun, Barbados of
93, and Content of 90, but the Boatswain of the men of
warr could not be found, so we lost three or four days,
Mr. Gordon not being able to gett all the Apprizers
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 63
1711.
together till 13th inst. in order to take an oath before a
magistrate after a survey to do justice in the sale of
these ships and their cargos between the Queen and
the owners and merchants, which was the only expedient
that could be found to bring them to reasonable terms.
July 12. This day little or nothing was done, except
removing some difficultys in relation to the dispatch of
our provissions. July 13. This day the 3 ships with
their cargos were agreed for at 4872 Is. 2d., and Mr.
Gordon writt to the Admirall to put a trusty midshipman
into each of them for a master, and to allow them men
out of the Queen's ships, to saile them to Quebeck, for
saveing ye charge of hireing others, but he could not
obtain this request, so others were hyred, some part of
the cargo of provissions aboard the Prince Eugene was
ordered to be bought up and put on board the Content,
our men continued to desart by the help of the people
of the Country, and the Governour could not as yett
agree on a remedy, in the mean time the Brigadier gave
order for discharging all the negroes that had been
listed since our coming, tho' they had taken party
volluntarily, in hopes to bring the country to some
reasonable measures concerning our own deserters. The
96 hhds. of salt wh. Mr. Gordon bought of Mr. Prout
was now payd for, amounting to 162 15s. 4d. July 14.
This day two regiments of the New England forces were
review'd by the Brigadier and the Governour. Lt. Genii.
Nicholson arriv'd this night at Boston from New York
and Col. Vetch from Annopolis, the former being asked
why the Leopard and Saphire or either of them had not
been imediately sent away to New York, with the
Joseph and Neptune storeships which were so much
wanted, he sayd he had no directions over ye Capts. of
those ships, and they had prevailed with the Gov-
ernour and Councill to clean here, the Admirall
being present, sayd he would make inquiry into this
matter when Capt. Cockburn of the Saphire return'd
from Annopolis. This day the wells on ye Island of
Nodles were all dry'd up, and the Brigadier ordered the
transports to go up the River to fetch water for the
troops. Severall men deserted this day. July 15.
Mr. Gordon being informed by the Admirall's Agents,
that he had procured the Government's direction for
the packers etc. to work this day on our provissions, they
possitively refused to doe it ; upon which Lt. Genl.
Nicholson and he procured warrants from a J.P. for
takeing severall of them up, and then they went heartily
to work, and we got most of the wine which was bought
for the use of the troops aboard the transports that tyde.
July 16 and 17. Nothing matteriall hapned. July 18.
This day a Sachem of the New York Indians came to
Boston to inform himself of the certainty of the arrivall
64 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
of the Brittish troops and ships of WRIT, he attended the
Brigadier, and received his present of cloaths etc., he
said by his Interpreter that he had allways been true
to the English, and was glad the Queen had taken so
much care of them, to send a fleet and army against the
French, the Brigadr. ordered him to be carryed over to
Nodles Island to see the troops and to be very well
entertained. The Windsor, Capt. Arris, Comndr., being
the ship appointed to receive ye Brigadr. and his retinue
was this day-order'd to be hove down, but some of the
careening geer broke, and we were apprehensive that
she and a transport which was fitting in lieu of another
that proved leaky for 300 of Coll. Kirk's regimt. would
prove a hindrance to our sayling now our provissions
were on board. This night Capt. Harrison, the Briga-
dier's aid du camp, who was detatched with the Kingston
and the Mary transports for New York arriv'd at
Boston with ye wellcom news that those ships were
got safe to New York, but they had had a very tedious
and troublesome passage by reason of foggs, calms and
currents. Coll. Hunter sent a letter by Mr. Harrison
acquainting the Brigadier that the Province galley
with the Joseph and Neptune transports were likewise
arrived at New York, and that he was in hopes to
overcome some dimcultys (in relation to provissions)
which had stood in his way, that the Sachams had
received the news of this Expedition with great joy and
sung the Warr-song, which lasted all night long, and
some French Indians in league with us had promiss'd
upon approach of our troops to retire, and by no per-
suation, be induced to joyn ye French. July 19.
Major Allen and Mr. Nuttmaker brought in the accounts
of the Adventure, Barbadoes, and Content, with the
cargoes and the cost of 96 hhds. of salt and the charge
of manning the said ships, for which the Brigadier
ordered payment to be made since it was for ye use of
the land forces ashore, and could not properly be
supplyed from the Navy or Victualling the soldiers
being to pay for the same. This day Tho. Henley a
diserter from Major Culliford's Company in Col. Kirk's
regiment was try'd and condemn'd by a Generall Court
Martiall to be hanged on Nodles Island in sight of all
the troops, and the case of Joseph Bennett, a soldier in
the same Regiment accused of mutiny was referred to
the examination of a Regimentall Court Martiall.
That night order was given for reinbarquing all the
troops the next day. July 20. All the troops were
reinbarqued on board their proper transportts, except
300 of Coll. Kirk's regiment, whose transport was ex-
changed, being leaky, for one call'd the Queen Ann,
which was not yett fitted, but the Brigadier had thought
of putting those men on board the men of war, that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 65
1711.
nothing relating to him might stop our say ling, since
Mr. Gorden had assured him all the provissions were
aboard except the Windsor's, which ship was not ready,
but the provissions were. Coll. Kirk readily agreed to
the distribution of his men on board the men of war, to
save time, as the Admirall did after some debate. This
day the Genii. Court or Assembly passed an additionall
act against harbouring diserters, which could not be
obtained before the troops were reinbarked. July 21.
Nothing happen'd of moment, only the Brigadier and
Sr. Hovenden Walker made publication of pardon to
every deserter, seaman or soldier or marine that would
return to the service. July 22. The Governour brought
severall Mohagues, which he said were heads of the Five
Nations, to attend the Brigadier, who received them well
and encouraged them to joyn our troops at the Wood
Creek etc. This day the troops were victualled with
fresh provissions on board the transports. July 23. Six
soldiers of Lt. Generall Seamour's regiment were tryed
at a Court Martiall for mutiny, two were condemned to
be shott, three to be whipt, and one acquitted. This
day ye Mohagues made their speeches, presented their
wampum etc. to the Brigadier, and he gave order to
shew them the troops and men of warr, and being well
entertained, and satisfied with their presents, after
4 or 5 days stay they returned to New York. July 24.
The ship with the troops from Rhode Island arrived at
Nantaskett, the said troops had been furnished with
cloaths and musketts but wanted byonetts swords and
cartouch boxes, which we had not in store for them
because there was no provission made for them in Eng-
land, either because that Island was not mention 'd or
not thought to be a distinct Government, when the
Expedition was first thought of, however since cloaths
and musketts were order'd for them out of the Queen's
Magazine the Brigadier order'd them to accompany
the fleet to Canada. This day we were told the Windsor
has gott almost all her provisions on board, and most
of the Brigadrs. equipage and provissions were gott on
board her and his tender. An additionall loane of
10,000 New England money was voted in case the
service shall require more than the 40,000 formerly
struck in ye country bills. July 25. The Brigadier
being inform'd that the Chester had taken a prize going
in company with 3 other merchant ships to Quebeck
from France, sent Capt. Harrison to the Admirall to
know upon perusall of the papers which might be on
board her, whether there were any intelligence that was
proper for his knowledge. Capt. Harrison returned
with a list of ships mentioned in the margin which he
said came from France and parted with the prize off
of Cape Finistere as also a newspaper between 1710
Wt. 2GU89.
66 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
and 1711. July 26. This day being sett apart for a
day of fasting in pursuance of H.M. Instructions it was
religiou[s]ly observed by the Brigadier himself, and the
officers and soldiers ; the Province galley arrived with
severall victuallers from New York, and Mr. Gorden de-
livered the severall bills of lading and invoyces of their
cargoes to Mr. Nutmaker the proper officer, giving it in
charge to Capt. Forster Agent of the transports to be
assisting to him in getting the provissions shifted into such
of the transports as could best stow it and if there should
not be room enough in the transports to apply to the
Admirall to order the men of warr to receive what
remained. July 27. All the Brigadiers retinue and bagage
haveing been shipt for some days on board his tender,
he went this day himself on board the Windsor in hopes
to saile the next morning, but severall transports having
lost men by disertion could not saile without being
supply'd with others. The men of warr had a great
loss likewise which made it hard to supply them, and
this last and worst difficulty was in a manner without
remedy since both the Governour and Admirall thought
themselves so restrained by the Hte Act of Parliament
against pressing in the Plantations that they could not
by any means think they could justifie pressing seamen
for recruiting the Brittish ships of warr or transports
while that Act was in being. July 28. The Brigadier
dined ashore and imediately went on board the Windsor
againe. July 29. The Province galley being unman'd
for supply of the transports and some other matters
adjusted, the wind coming up fair, the signall for un-
mooring was made this afternoon but it was not thought
fitt to saile till next morning. Endorsed, Br. Hill's
Journal, Rd. at Windsor Sept. 17, 1711. 19 pp.
61. ii. Officers of Regiments to General Hill. Proposals as
to payment of subsistance according to the monthly
muster-rolls, there having always been great confusion
in the accounts in former expeditions. July 25, 1711.
6 signatures. 2pp. [C.O. 5, 9. Nos. 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 ;
and (duplicate of enclosure i.) 5, 898. No. 12 ; and
(duplicate of enclosure ii.) 43, 13. No. 12.]
[July ?] 62. Proclamation by General Hill. The Queen of England is
about to re-assert her incontestable right over all North America.
French inhabitants of Canada and its neighbourhood, who remain
peaceably in their homes and wish to place themselves under H.M.
protection, will be favourably treated and allowed to remain in
peaceable possession of their property, and share the liberty
enjoyed by H.M. other subjects, with the free exercise of their
religion. Those who do not resist, but prefer to return to France,
will be allowed to do so and transport etc. will be provided, etc.
Printed by Green, Boston, 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 868. No. 13.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 67
1711.
[? Ang.] 63. Governor Douglas to the Council of Trade and Planta-
tions. Since my arrival here my time has been cheifly employed
in viewing the forts and magazines, and taking the best measures
I could in so short a time to put this Island into a better posture
of defence then I found it. I must refer your Lordships to the
minutes of the Council and Assembly, which will be represented
to your Lordship in their way concerning the late Insurrection.
I shall after my return from the Leeward Islands make a diligent
enquiry into all particulars relating to that action in order to lay
it in the clearest light before your Lordships. I have upon
good informations sent home on board H.M.S. the Lark Capt.
Norbury, Commandr., three officers in Col. Jones' regiment,
Capt. Rookby, Lieut. Wats, and Ensign Smith. The depositions
and witnesses that appear against them will convince your
Lordships of the dangers this Colony was involved in by men of
their principles and behaviour. Capt. Norbury at first scrupled
to take them on board pretending he was not properly under my
command. I would beg your Lordships to take into your con-
sideration the 69th article of my Instructions, that I may receive
that power from the Board of Admiralty that H.M. service may
not be obstructed by such pretentions. I am desired by the body
of this Island to make application to H.M. by your Lordships
about the flags of truce, this Island bearing the whole charge.
The other Islands though receiving the same benefit refuse to
give any proportion towards it. That H.M. would be pleased
to give some orders that this Colony may be eased from so great
a burthen as the hiring sloops from and to Martinique and main-
taining prisoners of war. If there were two frigats upon this
station the Trade of these Islands would be better secured, the
French Islands reduced to some distresses by their privateers
being forced to leave them who are their principal support, and
H.M. poor subjects would not be soe often in a starving condition,
while there was such a force at sea. Your Lordships will be
pleased to take this into your consideration and to recommend
it to H.M. most gratious Majesty. There is a great want of small
arms, and the inhabitants expect to be furnisht upon all occasions.
There is none in the magazine, 500 arms with swords and bayonets
would be sufficient to furnish those that want, and I shall take
care they shall be only employed upon publick service. The
Assembly are upon altering the Act in relation to their Courts
etc. ; which I hope they will heartily goe thorow with, etc. Signed,
Walter Douglas. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read 8th Nov., 1711.
3 pp. Enclosed,
63. i. Thos. Kerby to Lt. Govr. Yeamans in reply to an order
to copv some Acts, etc. Antigua, Aug. 23, 1711. Signed,
Thos. Kerby. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 27, 1711. 1 p.
63. ii. Lists of fees taken in Antigua. 8 pp. Endorsed as
preceding.
63. iii. Account of powder received for tonnage of vessels in
Antigua, Oct. 27, 1710 Aug. 22, 1711. Same endorse-
ment. 1^ pp.
63. iv. Account of stores of war in the Magazine, Antigua,
68 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Oct. 1710. Signed, John Brett. Same endorsement.
I p.
63. v. Account of the stores of war delivered for the forti-
fications, Antigua, Dec. 1710 Aug. 14, 1711. Signed,
Saml. Parry. Same endorsement. 2% pp.
63. vi. Account of the stores of war delivered out of the
Magazine, Antigua, 1710. Signed, John Brett. Same
endorsement. 1| large pp. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 87,
87 i.-vi. ; and (without enclosures) 153, 11. pp. 392-
394.]
Aug. 1. 64. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Request payment of office expenses and salaries,
from Christmas 1710 to Midsummer 1711. [C.O. 389, 37. pp. 20,
22.]
Aug. 1. 65. Lt. Governor Lambert to the Council of Trade and
St " u Plantations. According to the several Instructions directed unto
irs * me from Governor Douglas, I enclose the particular accounts of
the Island, and whatever can be done shall be forwarded by the
soonest opportunity. But find an impossibility of compleating
the whole by reason a great many papers relateing thereunto were
lost upon the enemy's invadeing the Island, as also by the mis-
fortunes of the hurricane in blowing down most of the houses,
and consequently destroying most papers of publick transactions
as well as private, to the detriment of the Island in general.
Signed, Mich. Lambert. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 27, Read Nov. 27,
1711. 2pp. Enclosed,
65. i. Account of Stores received and spent, St. Christophers,
Aug. 16, 1707 May, 1710. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 27,
1711. 2 pp.
65. ii. Account of cannon, stores and forts belonging and
wanting in Antego. Signed, Saml. Parry. Endorsed
as preceding. 1 pp.
65. iii. Census of the inhabitants of St. Kitts, and the number
of slaves owned by them. Aug. 10, 1711. Endorsed
as preceding. 13 pp. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 88, 88 i.-ix. ;
and (without enclosures) 153, 11. pp. 397-399.]
Aug. 3. 66. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. My Lord Treasurer desires
Treasury the opinion of the Council of Trade and Plantations upon follow-
Chambere. ing Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed, llth, Read 12th
Sept., 1711< | p. Enclosed,
66. i. Col. Corbet to the Queen. Having been appointed
Governor of Maryland in the room of Col. Seymour
deed., and it haveing been customary between the death
of owne Governor and the arivall of another to divide
the perquisites between the person who officiates and
the succeeding Governor, petitioner prays H.M. to grant
him the same benefitt till his arrival. Signed, John
Corbet. Subscribed,
66, ii. H.M. refers this petition to the Lords Commissioners
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1711.
of the Treasury for their report. Signed, Dartmouth.
Whitehall, Aug. 28, 1710. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. .Yew?.
44, 44 i., ii. ; and 5, 727. pp. 302-304.]
Aug. 3. 67. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Whitehall. Enclose extracts from Mr. Lillington's letter, June 13, concerning
exchange of prisoners and threatened attack on Antigua.
Enclosed,
07. i. Extracts referred to in preceding. [C.O. 29, 12.
p. 364 ; (covering letter only) ; and (enclosures only) 152,
42. Nos. 71-76 and 64.]
Aug. 0.
68
H.M. Warrant appointing John Carver to the Council of
a in the room of Thomas Clarke denrl. (!nnfprxi</>if><l
Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 101, 102.]
Aug. 7.
Office of
Ordnance.
69. Board of Ordnance to the Queen. In obedience to Order
of Council July 30, relating to stores of war for the Leeward
Islands (v. June 29). We humbly report to your Majesty, that
wee do not know what stores of warr they now have, so we can
make no judgement what arms and other stores may be necessary
to be sent to those Islands. But if it is your Majesty's pleasure
any quantity of arms etc. should be sent thither, we must begg
leave to informe your Majesty, that the parliament has not
given this Office any money for such service, and we humbly
conceive, if the Islands cannot as formerly at then 1 own charge
supply themselves with stores of warr, then their particular
demands should be laid before the Parliament. Signed, C.
Musgrave, Ja. Craggs, Wm. Bridges. 1 p. Enclosed,
69. i. Extract from Lt. General Hamilton's letter, April 5,
referred to in preceding.
69. ii. Copy of Address of the General Council and Assembly
of the Leeward Islands to Lt. General Hamilton, March
3, 1711, praying H.M. to supply stores of war, etc. f p.
[C.O. 152, 42. Nos. 70, 70 i., ii.]
Aug. 9. 70. Governor Handasyd to Lord Dartmouth. Duplicate of
Span. Towne. part of July 16th. Signed, Tho. Handasyd. Addressed. 2| pp.
[C.O. 137, 51. No. 52.]
Aug. 10.
Off Cape
Brittoun.
71 . Col. Vetch to Mr. Secretary St. John[s]. I was honoured
with the coppy of yours to Col. Nicholson in Aprill last, by which
I was commanded to leave the garison of Annapolis Royall and
Government there, in order to putt in execution H.M. commands
signifyed to me by you, to take the command of the troops of
New England and nighbouring Governments who are in conjunc-
tion with the troops of great Brittan, under the command of
Generall Hill to reduce Canada conform to a scheam I had the
honour to lay before H.M. three years ago. I have accordingly
left that Government to Sr. Charles Hobby as my Deputy : by
order of the Congress have raised, moduled and embark'd all
the said troops, and are now near half way upon our voyage to
70 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
the said place : the getting to which place by reason of the
deficulty of the navigation I look upon to be the dificultest part of
the enterprise, being myself if not the only att least the best pilot
upon the Expedition, although none of my province. However
1 doubt not ere long to have the honour to congratulate you upon
the success of H.M. arms in reduction of the said place and
country : by which H.M. will be sole Empress of North America,
six times larger then all her European Dominions. In the vein
of all which success be pleased to allow me to accquaint you that
notwithstanding my having layd the scheame of those affairs
and having bein last year honoured by H.M. Royall Commission
as Generall in the reduction of Port Royall, and afterwards
when reduced by H.M. Royall Instruction being made Governour
of the same with about 500 troops and 50 commissioned officers,
the maintaining of which characters, and keeping a table hath
occasioned me a verry great expense, for all which as yett I have
had neither allowance, salary nor establishment, and being now
in the greatest hurry imaginable called from my Government upon
the present Expedition to command the troops of the American
Governments concerned in the Expedition by sea, from whom I
have not one groat allowance though my equipage and pre-
parations hath already cost me severall hundreds of pounds, I
must intreate your Lordship's favour and concurrence with my
Lord Dartmouth in procureing from H.M. such a summ of money
as in your consummate wisdom may answer my great expense
etc., etc. Signed, Sam. Vetch. 1 p. [C.O. 217, 31. No. 2.]
Aug. 10. 72. Same to Lord Dartmouth. Similar letter to precudi-ng.
2 pp. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 100.]
Aug. 14. 73. Col. King to Mr. Secretary St. John. I thought I should
From on board have had opportunity of sending you the inclos'd from Boston
man of waT ^ v a mercnan t man. But our General and Admiral thought it
afterwards for the service, to stop all vessells going from thence
to Europe till we were ready to sail. So that this occasion by the
Devonshire's and the Humberts being order'd home, is the only
one I have had since I left Plymouth. The season is now so far
advanc'd, we must have all the good fortune imaginable both by
sea and land, to be able after the reduction of Quebeck to take
Placentia. However 'tis certain that the most proper time to
attack that place is from the middle of October to the latter end
of April. For then the French fishermen are absent ; and while
they are there they can give 2000 as good militia as any in the
world towards the defence of it. Wherefore if the season is not
very boistrous at our return, our General will undoubtedly proffitt
of the occasion, and the more because he will then have the thou-
sand New England troops which must be sent home to assist him
in reduceing it. Having reduc'd the great plan of the River of
St. Laurents to a more moderate size, I have sent you a copy of
it by Mr. Cole Lieut, in the Humber man of war : as also the plan
of the town of Quebeck mention'd in the enclos'd letter. The
freedom with which I have writt part of the enclos'd would
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 71
1711.
I think admitt of no excuse if my great regard to truth and duty
to you had not oblig'd me to it. The inclos'd list of stores I
gott provided for us at Boston by what they call a Committee,
with a good deal of fatigue. This Committee is composed of
five persons, and when they have made up their accounts, another
like Committee is order'd to audit them to prevent their imposeing
on the Queen. As this method has been always practis'd there,
and as it appeared to me a reasonable one, I thought it properer
that the^ stores etc. should be provided that way than by me who
was a stranger to the vallue of all sorts of things in the country.
For the same reason Governour Dudley is the most proper person
to pass the accounts finaly for them, and draw bills on the
Treasury or Office of Ordnance for what summs they'll amount
to : wherefore I have engag'd him to do it at our General's desire :
and as all the said stores are indeed very bad except the strong
gynn, crane, block carriage, chevaux de frize, and sling cart
which 1 made with my own artificers, I hope he will take care that
the Queen may be charg'd proportionably for them. We are
now with .all our Fleet about 10 leagues south from the most
easterly part of the Island of Anticoste with the wind at S.S.W.,
which I hope will bring us into the mouth of the River : from
whence we must have an easterly wind to carry us up. The
Heavens have been hitherto so favourable to us in our navigation
that I doubt not but we shall have it : and that in a short time
afterwards I shall have the pleasure of sending you all an account
of our happily succeeding, etc. P.S. I am persuaded I may
assure you that our forces both by sea and land are resolv'd to
succeed or perish in the attempt. Signed, Rich. King. 3f pp.
Enclosed,
73. i. List of things provided at Boston for the present
Expedition. 2 pp.
73. ii. Copy of No. 61 i. [C.O. 5, 751. Nos. 81, 81 i., ii.]
Aug. 15. 74. Thomas Harley (one of the Secretaries of the Treasury)
Treasury to Mr. Popple. Encloses following to be laid before the Council
Chambers. of Trade and Plantations for their opinion. Signed, T. Harley.
Endorsed, Reed. 25th Aug., Read 12th Sept., 1711. Addressed.
f p. Enclosed,
74. i. Petition of Michael Lambert, Lt. Govr. of St. Chris-
topher's, to the Earl of Oxford, Lord High Treasurer.
Prays for the confirmation of a grant of Olivies plan-
tation in the French quarter of St. Kitts, made to him
by Governor Parke in consideration for his services, for
a certain term, with an equitable title to H.M. bounty
for the same, in case the whole Island shou'd remain
unto H.M. upon the next treaty of Peace. Petitioner
has spent great sums in setling and improving it. 1 pp.
74. ii. William Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer.
Report on preceding. By H.M. Letters Nov. 30, 1705,
Governor Parke was directed not to dispose of any part
of St. Christophers taken from the French for a longer
term than 2| years from the time of his arrival there,
72 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
etc. The grant referred to above was made by him Oct.
24, 1707 for 3 years, and is now expired. Proposes
that petitioner having been at great expense in improv-
ing the plantation, the grant be renewed for 3 years as
from April 24. 1710, the time to which it ought to have
been at first limited, etc. Signed, William Blathwayt.
2 pp.
74. iii. Copy of Governor Parke's grant of Olivies Plantation,
adjoining Monkey Hill, near Basseterre, as above. Oct.
24, 1707. Signed, Daniel Parke. The petition (No. i) is
referred by the Lord High Treasurer to Wm. Blathwayt
for his opinion. Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Treasury
Chambers, June 30, 1711. 3 pp. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos.
75, 75 i.-iii. ; and 153, 11. pp. 355-361.]
Aug. 15. 75. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
St. Jago de la and Plantations. The inclosed is a duplicate of what I wrote
Vega. ky j.j ie s c ipi The Assembly have since met, and four Acts
have been past which I shall transmit to your Lordps. together
with the minutes of the Council and Assembly and some observa-
tions on their proceedings by the Non-such, it not having been
possible to prepare them ready for this conveyance. The chief
grievance I find among the inhabitants of this land, is the duties
laid on by the American Act, tho' people are at present pretty
easy on that subject, in hopes of a speedy relief. As this is a
real pressure, I doubt not but your Lordps. will continue your
good offices in behalf of the Island, for obtaining them some ease
from it. I shall now have the satisfaction to mention to your
Lops, the success of Mr. Littleton's cruise, which has been the
taking of the Vice-Admiral of the galeoons, and another galeoon
they call a potache, which are both now in harbour. I can't
give your Lops, any particulars of their value, reports about
galeoons being very different ; these are said to be full of goods,
but that Monsieur Du Casse had taken out all the king's Plate,
and several merchants their money. However it's beyond
dispute that they are very rich prizes. The Admirante of the
galeoon died of his wounds. The privateers have brought in
four other small prizes. Mr. Littleton sail'd the 14th with his
squadron with intent to lye off of Point-Pedro-shoales, there to
intercept Mounsr. Du Casse, if he comes to Leeward, as is ex-
pected : as soon as this cruise is over (which is believ'd will be in
a fortnight or three weeks) the Non-such is to saile with Majr.
Genii. Handasyd, by which opportunity I design to do myself
the honour of writing again to your Lordps. Signed, A. Hamilton.
Endorsed, Reed. Sept. 28, Read Oct. 30, 1711. 1| pp. [C.O.
137, 9. No. 47 ; and 138, 13. pp. 364, 365.]
Aug. 15. 76. Same to Lord Dartmouth. Repeats part of preceding.
St. Jago de la ]yj r Littleton had not an opportunity of delivering my letter
to the Marquis of Suerez. I have detained three of the chief
prisoners (from the galleons) which I think a favourable occasion
to facilitate the relief of the prisoners at Lima. Signed, A.
AMERICA ANT) WEST INDIES. 73
1711.
Hamilton. Endorsed, R. Sept. 28. 1 p. [C.O. 137, 51. No.
53.]
Aug. 20. 77. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Planta-
Barbados. tions. Encloses Minutes of Council and Assembly, and Acts
passed since his arrival, etc. I also take the liberty to send a
list of the prizes which the French have taken and carried into
Martinique from July 1710 till May 1711 ; the greatest part of
which snipes did belong to Barbados, as I am informed by the
merchantes here ; they also told me that these great losses were
chiefly occasioned from the little regard the men of war paid to
the orders Mr. Lillington gave them during his Presidentship,
for when he sent them orders to cruise three weeks or more to
the windward of the Island, they did not stay there very often
above 24 hours, but would go into another latitude : at other
times they would be in harbour four or five weekes after they had
the President's orders to cruise to the wind-ward of the Island :
upon these informations I looked into my Instructions to see how
I was to behave myself upon such occasions, and I find I have no
power over the men of war, nor no authority to call them to
account for the breach of any orders they receive from me ; for
my 69th Instruction directs me not to exercise any authority
over the Captains of the men of war unless I have a commission
or power soe to do from the Lords of the Admiralty : I therefore
submit it to your Lordshipes' consideration whether it will be
for H.M. service that I should have such a Commission from the
Lords of the Admiralty. The Sweepstakes, Capt. Thomas Jacobs,
Commander, took a prize a little before I arrived here called the
Cupid on which were 48 men who made their application to me
by several Gentlemen of this Island to be sent to Martinique and
exchanged : upon a serious consideration of this proposition, I
did not think fit to grant their request ; notwithstanding it was
urged that the French took more prisoners from us than we did
from them, and that therefore it would be for the interest of H.M.
and the benefit of the people of this Island not to have the Queen's
subjects that fall into the handes of the French sent to Europe,
for said they, the sending of them to Europe would be not only
a great interruption to trade, but would also be a very great
prejudice to particular persons, for which reasons they desired
a cartell might be settled with the French at Martinique for the
exchange of prisoners that were taken or should be taken on each
side. I may admit that the French take more prisoners than we
doe, and that the sending them to France is some obstruction to
trade, and a high aggravation of the misfortune of such as fall
into the hands of the French ; yet notwithstanding this I am
humbly of opinion, that it is not only against the Queen's interest,
but also against the advantage and policy of this Island to settle
a cartell with the French : to make this obvious to your Lordshipes,
I take the liberty to put you in mind that the people of Martinique
are the very dregs and refuse of the French Nation, and that they
intirely subsist by piracy and privateering, and that they lose
nothing when they fall into our hands but some armes and
74 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
ammunition. I would likewise remarke that this loss to them is
so very inconsiderable when a cartell is settled with them, that
those very people which have been taken one week, and sent to
Martinique the next, have in the week after they arrived there
returned upon our coastes, for they have nothing wherewith to
subsist themselves and families but what they take from us, and
that therefore it must of necessity happen thus, unless they are
sent to Europe ; but if they are sent to Europe, there is not one
in 50 can ever return to Martinique, having neither mony nor
credit to accomplish it, but must be constrained to go into the
King's service ; so by this means not only many families at Mar-
tinique will be utterly undone, and the country distressed by the
great increase of the poore rates, but it will also disable them from
fitting out their number of privateers which will redound as
much to our advantage as to their ruin, being they have little
or nothing to subsist on but the provisions they take from the
Queen's subjects. I beg leave to say a word or two to obviate
one objection more that I fancy may be made against sending the
prisoners of war to Europe : the objection is this, that all the ill
consequences that attend the French prisoners being sent to
Europe will also befall such of the Queen's subjects as are under
the like unhappy circumstances : all I shall say to refute this
objection is, that the worst of the Queen's subjects that are taken
in a trading vessel, have either mony, credit or friends to support
them under such a misfortune, and to replace them in the same
way of livelyhood, if not in the same condition, which is not the
Frenches case, that live at Martinique. I have one more objection
to offer to your Lordshipes against settling a cartell with the
French at Martinique, which is, that it will give a great opportun-
ity to carry on a trade between this place and them. I desire
your Lordshipes to signify the Queen's pleasure to me upon these
matters, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed. Sept. 10,
Read Nov. 15, 1711. Holograph. 3 pp. Enclosed,
77. i. List of prizes brought into Martinique from July 1710
May 1711. Totals : 56, and 2 run ashore. Endorsed,
Reed. Oct. 10, 1711. 1 p.
77. ii. Abstract of the Naval Officer's List of Ships entered
and cleared at Barbadoes, March 25 June 24, 1711.
To England ; 10 ships of 1924 tuns burthen (sugar,
molosses, cotton and ginger). To Guinea : 5 ships of
165 tuns (rum). To the Plantations : 44 ships of 2133
tons (sugar, molosses, cotton, ginger, rum, (2105 hhds.
799 tierces, 691 barrels) and lime juice. Endorsed
as preceding. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos. 72, 72 i., ii. ;
and 29, 12. pp. 377-381.]
Aug. 22. 78. Lt. Governor Hyde to [? Lord Dartmouth]. As no one
North Carolina. can more heartily congratulate yr. Lp. in that high station H.M.
has so deservedly placed yr. Lp., so no one can be less desirous of
giving you any trouble now you are in it. But it is my lot at
this time to be plac'd in a Governmt. where I find nothing but
sedition has been industriously cultivated and rebellion too much
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 75
1711.
practiced. An instance of wch. will be very evident in Coll.
Cary, who is now sent prisoner to England. I think this is but
the third rebellion he has headed since he came into Carolina,
beginning with him in Ashley River, where he headed 300 mob
and seiz'd Judge Trot, and twice since he came into North
Carolina, concluding with me. He and those people committed
with him, wch. he intended evidences for himself e, were at the
request of me and the Councell apprehended by the Hon. Alex-
ander Spotswood, Lt. Governour of Virginia, and I shou'd do
very great injustice to that honbl. person, if I did not own that
the prospect we have of peace being setled in this Governmt. is
oweing to him, as well as putting an end to this rebellion to his
measures ; I [? saw] no way left to support H.M. authority and
peace here, and maintain the Lords Proprietors' power, but by
begging assistance from the Governour of Virginia, who with
great compassion tooke the miserable case of that country, and
my circumstances (in a manner I may say) into his own protection.
I humbly supplicate yr. Lp. (that not having had notice of Coll.
Cary's being apprehended and committed before the Fleet sayl'd
for England, by wch. it was render'd impossible for me to send
evidences to make out our charge at this time against him, wch.
I shall have no reason to doubt but I shall do with great clearness)
that I may have sufficient time allow'd me to send over my
evidences and proofs. But if such a favourable consideration
(in yr. Lp.) to the poverty of this country, shou'd prevail with
yr. Lp. to get a Commission sent into Virginia to examine not
onely evidences, but to try the criminals that are in custody
here, (if Col. Cary and those committed with him, shall not by
yr. Lp. be thought fit to be try'd allso) must undoubtedly be
esteem'd a very great charity. Levy Trewit and George Lumley
are two of the most eminent villains that cou'd be pick'd out for
Coll. Cary's purpose, the first Coll. Cary made Clarke of Pemptico
Court in Bath County, where it will be prov'd he was famous for
forging of false judgmts, and razing of records, wch. most in that
Court are now raz'd by him. George Lumley was made the Secre-
tary's Clarke by Coll. Cary, and when he reed, the Colony's scale,
and the Records he gave bond to restore them when requir'd as
whole as when he reed, them, without corruption or imbezelmt.,
when I sent my order for them he refus'd it, and when I compel'd
him to deliver them, abundance of records was not onely raz'd
but whole Councells cut out of the booke, the other two Edmund-
Porter and Callingwood Ward are as usefull for any wicked
purpose as the other, and were all of them in arms on board the
brigantine with Col. Cary when he assaulted me June 30th last
on Col. Pollock's Plantation, but was repuls'd. I hope of yr.
Lp's. protection etc., having been most barbarously us'd ever
since I came in, by a people I never offended. But the Quakers
that have ever strove to overturn the Church Govermt. in this
Colony, has since I came in push'd it on with unusuall force,
many having tooke up arms themselves. I had allmost forgott
to beg of yr. Lp., if John Porter senior, who I hear is gone in a
runner for England, shou'd be heard of, he may be tooke up, for
70 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
he lias not onely at all times been the disturber of the peace of
this Governint. ever since he came into it, but in this last com-
motion has endeavour'd by going in person to severall Indian
towns and by promises of reward, to bring down the Indians to
cut of man woman and child on the western shore of Chowan,
that has been the onely subjects to H.M. that on all occasions has
express'd their loyalty. Begs to have his compliments made to
my Ld. Rochester and my Lord Guernsey, etc. P.S. I hope
Mr. Tobias Knights sent over by this Fleet, who was Secretarye
here, may be admitted to give such proofs before yr. Lp. as he is
furnish'd with, Coll. Cary being tooke after he was on board, and
so cannot be fully prepar'd, as otherwise he might, and wch. I
shall take care that he shall. Signed, Edward Hyde. Endorsed,
R. April 11, 1712. 2$ pp. Enclosed,
78 i. President and Council of North Carolina to [? Lord
Dartmouth]. Whereas Col. Thomas Cary, Levy True-
hit, Challingwood Ward, George Lumley and Edmund
Porter are at the earnest request of us the President
and Councill of North Carolina apprehended in Virginia
by order of Lt. Governor Spots wood, and by him
committed to a hearing, wee in most humble manner
pray leave to inform your Lordship that at a General
Assembly holden for this Collony in March last, the
said Col. Cary and John Porter were impeached of high
crimes and misdemeanours and were thereupon com-
mitted to the custody of the Provost-Marshall from
whom they made their escape, and to protect themselves
from justice did confederate with the abovenamed Levy
Truehit, Challingwood Ward, George Lumley, Ednid.
Porter, and with one Richd. Roach and several other
desperate and evill-minded persons as also with Emanuel
Low, Gabriell Newby and many other of the people
called Quakers and raised an insurrection against the
lawfull authority of the Lords Proprietors, and against
the peace and soveraign dominion of our soveraign
Lady the Queen, and to carry on their rebellious pur-
poses have endeavour'd by promises of reward to draw
into their conspiracy the neighbouring Indians by them
to cut off all such of H.M. subjects as shou'd oppose
their lawless proceedings, and did man and fit out with
great guns etc. two vessels and in them did sail in war-
like manner with a flag on the mainmasthead to the
great terrour of the inhabitants and severall robberys
and other injurys did commit, and in one of the said
vessels did make an assault upon us the President and
Councill at the house of Col. Thomas Pollock (of the
said Councill) in the precinct of Chowan, who there
endeavour'd to keep the peace of our soveraign Lady the
Queen, and maintain the authority of H.E. the Pallatine
and Lords Proprietors, from whence being by God's
assistance repell'd, they fled till they were apprehended
as abovesaid. Wherefore we humbly crave leave in such
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 77
1711.
time and manner as your Lordp. shall think most
necessary, to produce an evidence against the said
Gary, Truehit, Ward, Lumlej^ and Edmund Porter,
who were committed and sent prisoners to England,
before wee had the least notice of it, by which wee were
depriv'd of sending our evidences at the same time with
him, for which reason wee humbly hope considering the
nature of their offences, wee may have sufficient time
allow'd us for the doing of it, wherein wee do not doubt
but to make out full proofs of whatever wee shall accuse
them with. Wee are not out of hopes of yr. Lordp's.
great candour in this affair by which wee may fully
expect to see law and justice once more restored to
H.M. subjects, and this poor country, that for near three
years last past has by these rebellions been dispossess'd
of all. And considering this country is entirely im-
poverish'd through these unhappy commotions wee
shou'd look upon it an Act of the greatest compassion
towards us, if a Commission cou'd be obtain'd to be sent
into Virginia, to try the criminals, as well those sent to
England, as those that remain in custody here, to prevent
that charge which wou'd near complete the ruin of our
Colony. P.S. Wee beg leave if John Porter be fled
to England (as 'tis by all here concluded) that your
Lordp. wou'd please to give orders that he may be
apprehended. Signed, Edward Hyde, Graffenried, Tho.
Pollook, Tho. Boyd, W. Glover, N. Chevin. Aug. 22,
1711. 2pp. [C.O. 5, 308. Nos. 1, 1 i.]
Aug. 22. 79. Petition of Humphry South, of London, Merchant,
Whitehall, Agent for George Liddell of St. Christophers, and of Robt. Clayton,
son anc ^ ne "' f Richd. Clayton, of the same Island, deed., to the
Lord High Treasurer. Prays H.M. confirmation of a grant made
to them by Governor Parke for 2| years of two plantations in
the French Quarter of St. Kitts. 3 pp. Annexed,
79. i. The Lord High Treasurer refers preceding to the Council
of Trade and Plantations, and to Wm. Blathwayt,
Auditor General of the Plantations, for their opinion.
Signed, Wm. Lowndes. \ p.
79. ii. William Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer.
Recommends that the grant referred to in preceding be
confirmed with an additional term of two years, till Oct.,
1713. Signed, Wm. Blathwayt. Sept. 20, 1711. 1 pp.
79. iii. Copy of grant by Governor Parke, Dec. 1708. referred
to in preceding. 2| pp. The whole endorsed, Reed.
26th Sept., Read 26th Oct., 1711. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos.
85, 85 i.-iii. ; and 153, 11. pp. 380-388.]
Aug. 24. 80. Governor Lowther to Lord Dartmouth. Repeats part
Barbados. o f ^ o 77 Concludes : Mr. Hodges, the present Attorney
General of Barbadoes, goes for England in this Fleet, upon which
I intend to appoint Mr. Arthur Slingsby Attorney General in his
78 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
room, having power so to doe, till H.M. pleasure is known : Mr.
Slingsby is a gentleman of great worth and partes. and perfectly
well acquainted with the customes, laws and constitution of
this place, in consideration of which character I desire your
Lordship to obtain him a patent for being Attorney General :
it will be a favour I shall alwaies esteem, and think myself very
happy whenever I have an opportunity to acknowledge it as I
ought. I have taken the liberty to send your Lordship 24
quartes of citron water, and 50 weight of sweet-meats, which
1 intreat your Lordship to accept as a marke of my gratitude for
your many civilities, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Holograph.
2 pp. Enclosed,
80. i. ii. List of French prisoners taken by H.M.S. Sweep-
stakes and sent to England. 3 pp. [C.O. 28, 43. Nos.
65, 65 i., ii.]
Aug. 27. 81 . Governor Douglas to Lord Dartmouth. I had not been
Antego. many daies upon the Island till I perceiv'd it was impractacable
for me without endangering the safety of the whole Colony to
execute H.M. Orders in securing some of the inhabitants who were
the principal offenders in the late rebellion. I cou'd expect no
service from part of Col. Jones' regiment her 3, if they had made
any insurrection against me, the officers and soldiers are so
corrupted and influenc'd by the chiefest men of this Island.
Upon some informations I order'd Capt. Rookby, Lieut. Wats and
Ensign Smith, officers in the Queen's troops, to be taken into
custody, and sent on board the Lark man of war, Capt. Norbury
Commander. Your Lordship will perceive by the depositions
and witnesses against them how far they were ingag'd as encour-
agers or actors in the late tragical action. Capt. Norbury has
receiv'd my orders to signify the same to your Lordship, or one of
H.M. principal Secretarys of State upon his arrival at the first
port of England to have your Lordship's farther directions about
them. The greatest part of my time has been employ'd in
viewing the Forts in the Island and putting it into some better
posture of defence to prevent any designs the enemy might have
from the animosities and divisions of the people. I cou'd not
make any progress in the examination of the rebellion as yet fit
to lay before your Lordship. If I had a man of war, with some
draughted soldiers well arm'd for recruiting the regiment, and
under my command, I had probably sent some of the principal
malefactors to England, but Capt. Norbury's sentiments that
he was not properly under my power, his intimacy and friendship
with some persons has in some measure obstructed what I thought
proper for H.M. service, for how can I depend upon those who
will find some pretentious to dispute my orders. If I can't at
the same time send them off as they are taken, I don't know what
might be the fatal consequences thereof. I have writ more fully
to Mr. Lewis, which I beg your Lordship's consideration off,
that I may be better enabled to put H.M. Orders in execution,
etc. Signed, Walter Douglas. Endorsed, Reed., Read Feb. 4,
2 f PP- Enclosed,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 79
1711.
81. i. Deposition of Richard Oglethorp, Aug. 22, 1711. Some
time before his death Governor Parke sent for deponent,
being Deputy Marshall (of Antigua), to go for the purser
of the Lark man of war, Capt. Norbury Commander,
who informed him there was aboard upwards of 20
days provisions. Afterwards H.E. told Capt. Norbury
to cruise about the French Islands for 10 days, and then
proceed for Barbadoes for more stores, for that he was
was informed of an intended invasion of this Island etc.,
to which Capt. Norbury answered, he would not, but
would directly saile for Barbadoes, to which H.E. said
then in a passion, send then the soldiers that I may not
want their assistance, to which Capt. Norbury replyed
he would not, but if he would have it done to land
them himself, and immediatly the Capt. went away in
hast, and going by the house where the Assembly were
sitting, who presently accompanyed him, and in great
hast went downe to the wharf and entred a pinnis and
rowed away, the Assembly or the most of them and others
huzzai'd him off, and in few houres he put the ship under
saile, and did not return till after his death. Signed,
Richd. Oglethorp. Endorsed as preceding. Copy. 1^
pp.
81. ii. Deposition of Richard Oglethorpe, Aug. 22, 1711.
Some few days before Governor Parke was murdered,
he sent deponent, who was Deputy Marshal, from the
Councill Chamber in St. John's, where the Genl. and
the Councill were then sitting, to go to Capt. Marshall,
a Capt. in Col. Jones' regiment, and tell him that it was
his possitive orders, that he should not go off nor depart
this Island. When these orders were given to Capt.
Marshal he was in a boat at Cook's Wharfe, and in a
slighting manner putt off and went on board the Larke,
Capt. Cunningsby Norbury, commander, where his
company of soldiers was, which company with other
soldiers were also ordered to be landed, by reason this
Island was in some danger from the French, notwith-
standing which the Larke, Capt. Marshal and the Queen's
regular forces went to Barbadoes immediatly and re-
turn'd not again till after the General's death. Signed,
Richd. Oglethorp. Copy. I p. [C.O.- 152, 9. Nos.
97, 97 i., ii. ; and (without enclosures) 153, 11. pp. 421-
423.]
Aug. 29. 82. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade and
St. Jago de la Plantations. I trouble your Lops, at this time with duplicates
of my two former letters, and transmit the Acts which have been
already past this Assembly, with Journals, and the Accots. of
the Revenue. The proceedings of a former Assembly will be
deliver 'd to your Lops, by Major Genii. Handasyd, to whom I
referr the giving you such satisfaction touching the Laws then
past as your Lops, may require. Amongst them your Lops, will
80 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
find the Act of Fees, concerning which I had your Lops', directions,
and which I understand to have been amended conformable
thereunto. Upon the proceedings of that Assembly your Lops.
will observe they came to a resolution that they had a right to
adjourn themselves for a longer time than de die in diem, w r hich
I am told they intended to assert by adjourning for a month
against the Majr. Genii's, positive directions, and when business
was yet undone, and which occasion'd an abrupt dissolution.
I think myself somewhat oblig'd to mention this matter to your
Lops., the better to explain one part of my speech to this As-
sembly ; if your Lops', leasure should permit you to cast your eyes
upon it ; but more that I may have your Lops', opinion and direc-
tions in this particular, if ever it should be attempted again ; and
wherein 1 cannot but in my own judgment agree with the Majr.
Genii, that it would be of very mischievous consequence here,
that the Assembly should, at any time, separate themselves
against the Governour's commands : But if your Lops, will please
to favour me with some Instructions herein, I shall intirely
resign my own sentiments to yours. By the Acts past this
Assembly your Lops, will find the usual and necessary provision
made for the Regiment and other exigencies of the Government :
and tho' as yet this is done but for three months, I must do them
the justice to acquaint your Lops, it has not proceeded from any
want of a good intention, but the necessity of affairs occasion'd
by the shortness of time ; and the want of having the accots.
upon publick funds adjusted, which had been too long omitted,
and which inclined me to yeild to them in it ; having said upon
that occasion what I thought proper to prevent its being drawn
into practice. You will find (my Lords) the Act for quieting
possessions is now past, exactly agreeable to H.M. pleasure
signified to the Majr. Genii., and the other small Act to prevent
Hawking, being for relief of a growing inconveniency, I think
can meet with no objection from your Lops. I gave them leave
to adjourn till Oct. 1st in respect to the season of the year proper
for planting ; and I dare flatter myself they will then meet
in such a disposition as to compleat the Session as satisfactorily
as it has been begun : and indeed as I shall always endeavour to
keep them in this temper, as much as I can, so your Lops, will
observe, there is a more than ordinary occasion for it now, when
you find that notwithstanding 3000 had been given to the
Treasury, to enable it to pay the Majr. Genii's, salary, I must
still be necessitated to ask considerably of them for the con-
tingencies of the Government : and unless they supply it, I am
told there is not any money to pay me : But I shall examine
further into the state of the Revenue, and endeavour to give your
Lops, a more particular accot. of it. In the meantime I beg
your Lops, to believe that nothing will be a temptation to me
wilfully to forget or omit the nicest part of the duty of my station.
There is in bank, I understand, about 2000 of that branch of
the Revenue appropriated to fortifications ; and 1 can not but
say there seems employ mt. enough for it ; and I design forthwith
to employ it accordingly in repairing old works, and making new
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 81
1711.
where the service and defence of the Countrey may most require
it. And upon this head it may be proper to mention to your
Lops, that Capt. Hawkins, the Ingenier, has acquainted me of
some information he has had of a motion at the Board of Ordin-
ance to send for him away : I hope if anything of that kind be
intended, your Lops, will interpose that Capt. Hawkins be not
recall'd without somebody's being appointed in his stead ;
assuring your Lops, that I think H.M. service here does in a
particular manner require the assistance of an Ingenier, and
especially at this time. I can't send your Lops, the particulars I
promis'd you of his expedition to Providence, not having received
it of him. I think it my duty to inform your Lops, of a letter I
received from the French Genii, of the Coast of St. Domingo, lately
arrived there, in the room of the Count de Choiseul, proposing in
substance the settling a Cartel, which as I thought inconsistent
with the interest of this Island, I rejected, with the unanimous ad-
vice of the Council. Mr. Littleton is return 'd with the squadron
under his command, having had advice that Mounsieur Du Cass
sail'd with three men of war (three days after he left the coast)
neither taking with him any merchant men, nor acquainting
anybody what way he went. It's suppos'd he went directly
home. The success of Mr. Littleton's former cruize I think (my
Lds.) was in a great measure owing to his diligence and conduct ;
nor could there reasonably be any hopes of further, after such an
alarm given to the enemy. The galeoon which is taken proves
less rich than was expected ; which implies that there's still the
more on board those ships which Mounsr. Du Cass has with him.
I hope from the notice that has been sent, he may still be met
with in his passage. Mr. Littleton has now in concert with me
determin'd to dispose of the squadron most for the service of
the Island, and security of the Trade. One of the sloops fitted
out by the countrey, before the arrival of those now in H.M.
service, has lately done a very gallant action in having, with 70
men, taken a French privateer of 120 men from Petit Guavis,
after a smart engagement, board and board ; which I mention
the rather, because that sloop was mann'd out of those privateers
who have been so much discourag'd by the duties, and by such
behaviour merit something of the favour I hope is intended them.
I have now one favour to beg of your Lops., which might have
been introduc'd in a properer place of this letter ; however I
will not omit it here, and that is (my Lords) that your Lops, will
please to discountenance all applications which may be made to
you for the Council here, without my privity or approbation.
I am pers waded your Lops, will entertain so favourable an
opinion of my judgment and conduct, as to think me most
capable (being upon the place) of recommending to your Lops,
the fittest persons for that trust : and your Lops, will easily
conceive the usefulness of having somewhat of reward to bestow
upon such persons as shall distinguish themselves in the service
of H.M. and the countrey, which will always be my rule in such
recommendations. I had almost forgotten to mention anything
of the old seal, which I herewith transmit to your Lops. Signed,
Wt, >(,()${). C.P. 6.
82
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
A. Hamilton. Endorsed, Reed. 24th, Read 30th Oct., 1711.
4 pp. Enclosed,
82. i. Account of H.M. Revenue in Jamaica, March 25, 1710
1711. Total, 3470 6s. 3d. Endorsed, Reed. Oct 24,
1711. 4 pp. [C.O. 137, 9. Nos. 48, 48 i. ; and (with-
out enclosure) 138, 13. pp. 366373.]
Aug. 29. 83. Same to Lord Dartmouth. Repeats parts of preceding,
St. Jago de la including last paragraph as to nomination of Council. I am
told that the prisoners at Lima are already discharged ;
however I intend to detain the galeoon-prisoners at least till I
have further certainty thereof. I have not as yet had any answer
to what I wrote to the Marquis de Suere by Mr. Littleton, etc.
Signed, A. Hamilton. 2J pp. [C.O. 137, 51. No. 54.]
Vega.
Aug. 31.
Treasury
Chambers.
Aug. 31.
Piscataqua.
84. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. On reading to my Lord
Treasurer (enclosed) report of the Rt. Hon. .Jon. Howe relating
to the severall bills drawn by Col. Vetch for money taken up by
him for the use of the garrison of Annapolis, amounting to
7742 2. 6rf., wherein it is represented that there is no provision
made by Parliament for such extraordinary expence, my Lord
Treasurer transmits said report and desires that the Council of
Trade will let him know whether there be not money of H.M.
Revenues in that countrey that may be applyed in ease of the
said expence, and how much the same doth amount unto.
Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed. 5th, Read 12th Sept.,
1711. 1 p. Enclosed,
84. i. J. How to the Lord High Treasurer, July 10, 1711.
Report referred to in preceding. Copy. 2 pp. [C.O.
5, 865. Nos. 67, 67 i. ; and 5, 913. pp. 340346 ;
and 218, 1. pp. 1118.]
85. Mr. Bridger to Mr. Popple. Acknowledges letter of
Nov. 18 etc. Explains why a tree must stand two years after being
prepared and barked before being tapped for turpentine, and also
his process of making tar , etc. Continues : I cannott be silent on
the account of H.M. woods, the wast and destructions made there-
in daily, and not in my power to prevent, etc. I have no power to
prosecute nor have I any foundation to ground an action on, since
the Charter is not binding on H.M. side. I pray that I may be
enabled by Instructions, Law, or any way as shall be thought
proper to save all from destruction. Everyone has land and no
limitts to it on that side next the woods, and that land wch. is
H.M. 's if any such is common to all, but before Collins' contract
I had them under correction, telling them that they could not
cut a mast tree on theire own land, but Mico, Collins' factor here,
cut all before them, and at the same time are informing against
me for destroying H.M. woods. The Governor here has reed,
an order from the Treasury, theire being a complaint against me
lodged there, to examin and take the oath of these who has
informed against me, but theire is not one appears. This is
the same complaint as was before theire Lordsps. 5 years since,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
83
1711.
Sept. 3.
Windsor.
Sept. 3.
Boston.
and because I have made seizures of his masts tho' not confirmed
has given them this incouragment to begin againe. I have seen
40 masts, or very near that number now cut and lyes in this
river above Mr. Collins' contract, if I could obtaine an order to
seize them I am assured it would stoop theire careire, and 'tis
not 10,000 will make good the damage H.M. has sustained by
that contract, there has been more waste made since that contract
than was made in 20 years before. I humbly pray you to lay
this before theire Lordps., humbly begging theire protection for
such pernitious persons and malitious false and continued vilianys,
who has done all the hurt possible and lay it on me. P.S. I
wrote you by the H umber, wch. was ordered home, being thought
to large for the Expedition etc. I am here loading a ship with
masts for Jamaica by the Admiralty's order. This shipp was
taken by the Weymouth and Winsor etc. The Winsor is gon for
Quebeck, and the Weymouth convoys this shipp to Jamaica, etc.
Signed, J. Bridger. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 22, Read Nov. 2, 1711.
2f pp. [C.O. 5, 865. No. 71 ; and 5, 913. pp. 356-360.]
86. Order of Queen in Council. Referring following to the
Council of Trade and Plantations for their report thereon. Signed,
Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. Jan. 31, Read Feb. 1, 17|j.
1% pp. Enclosed,
86. i. Petition of Capt. John Walton to the Queen. Refers
to Representation on the Virgin Islands, April 17, 1711.
Petitioner never had notice of the persons who attended
the Board, and consequently no opportunity to confute
their allegations, for want whereof their Lordships have
mistaken several matters in fact, and omitted others
that were necessary. Prays H.M. to hear him by his
Councill, etc. Copy. 2 pp.
86. ii. Copy of Representation of April 17, 1711. [C.O.
152, 9. Nos. 96, 96 i., ii. ; and (without enclosure ii.)
153, 11. pp. 418-421.]
87. Governor Dudley to Mr. Secretary St. John. Encloses
copy of letter formerly sent by a merchantman. What has occurred
since is that on the 29th of July, the General and all the Fleet
and Force being ready set saile with a fair wind and thirteen
days after were spoken with near the mouth of the River, and
the winds and weather since have been very good and easey, so
that I account them to have been in sight of Quebeck ten days
at least and hope in God they are well proceeded in their approach
to the town, and twenty days more will I hope give in good news
from them. On the land side Lt. General Nicholson has been
at Albany these 25 days, and as he advises by his letters is gon
10 days since from Albany towards Woodcreek where the battoes,
and provisions must take the water to go down towards Mount
Real, and 10 days will bring them thither. We have no doubt
but by the favour of God the forces, stores and provisions on
both sides are superiour to the enemy and sufficient for the
service. And we take courage from H.M. most just and honour-
84 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
able declaration in her instructions to these Governments of the
reasons of her proceedings to which every sensible man must
agree. We are in expectation of the Mast Fleet, tho' doubt it
will be late, by w r hich safe conveyance I always send home the
years accounts etc. Capt. Parkington and Capt. Goodall are both
here in H.M. ships which they command to see if any French
Fleet threatned Port Royall, but we suppose ourselves and that
Garrison is in no danger from the French this year, but if the war
hold and the French King at leisure, may see them next summer.
Signed, J. Dudley. 2| jjp. Enclosed,
87 i. Same to Same. Boston. July 11, 1711. Col. Nichol-
son arrived here June 8 with H.M. commands. Upon
which the several Governours met at New London, the
midway between Boston and York, and soon concluded
the severall quotas of the Governments of New York,
Connecticutt, East and West Jersey, and Pensilvania,
to make 1600. Which being joyned with H.M. regular
troops consisting of 400 at New York makes the 2000
which H.M. has commanded to send on the land side
towards Mount Royall, Troy River and elsewhere. At my
return from the Congress I found the whole Fleet arrived
and General Hill and the forces In good health, who
are now all encamped on the shore to be refresht and
fitted for the remaining part of the voiage, and I have
obeyec^ H.M. command for my thousand men for the
Provinces of the Massachusetts and New Hampshire, they
are drawn and at this time putting on their cloths, my
transports and provisions will be ready in five days time
to go to sea. The only want is of good salt provisions
for H.M. Brittish troops, which it is impossible to kill
and provide at this season of the year, and that forces
us to send as far as Virginia and all the remote parts for
such salt victuals and bread as can be gotten, which
will delay some short -time. The General and the
Admiral are with utmost diligence pressing forward, and
I hope everything will be ready from the other Provinces,
so as to put to sea before this month be out. And if
God please that they have a good voiage, they will be
yet time eno'., tho' it had been unspeakably better if
the Fleet had arrived a month or six weeks sooner as
was projected. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 898. Nos. 9, 9 i.]
Sept. 3. 88. Order of Queen in Council, granting letters of denization
Windsor, to Moses Israel Henriquez, Jacob Rodrigues Mendiz, Isaac Peixoto
of London and Rodrigo Pacheco of New York. Signed, Christo.
Musgrave. 1% pp. [C.O. 5, 11. No. 68.]
[Sept. 4.] 89. Petition of John Evans, Captain of H.M.S. Defiance, to
the Queen. Petitioner being Commander of the Richmond man
of war in 1693, was sent to attend the Province of New York,
where he continued almost 6 years, and performed considerable
service for the benefit of that Colony. Col. Benjamin Fletcher,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 85
1711.
then Governor, in consideration thereof, and of 500 paid to lu'in
by petitioner in lieu of his established fees upon grants of lands,
by letters patent under the Great Seal of that Province granted
petitioner a large tract of unappropriated land call'd Murderer's
Creek, containing 18 miles in length fronting on Hudson's River,
and 30 miles backward, which had been bought by Col. Dongan
when Governor of New York from the Indian natives for 70.
On which tract petitioner expended great summs of money in
clearing severall places for farms, and planted several familys
of Scots and Irish under annual rents, intending to retire thither
himself when there should be a happy and lasting peace. After
Col. Fletcher and petitioner were commanded from New York
to England, Governor Lord Bellomont, having conceived some
prejudice to them both, and designing to take to his own use
and profit several tracts of land which had been granted by Col.
Fletcher to petitioner and others, in order thereunto procured an
Assembly to be chosen of ignorant, necessitous and profligate
persons, (most of them Dutch) who by his direction passed an
Act for destroying extravagant grants etc., whereby petitioner was
stripped of his lands and improvements, but the said Act being
sent over for the confirmation of the late King, H.M. upon a true
representation of the ill practices used to obtain that Act, refused
to confirm it, but not rejecting it, the same continued in force till
repealed by a subsequent law. Upon the arrival of Governor
Lord Cornbury, the inhabitants of the Province, thinking their
titles precarious whilst such an Act remained in force, apply'd
for redress to the first Assembly conven'd by his Lordship, who
by another Act unanimously repealed it, whereby petitioner was
restored to and enjoyed his lands till your Majesty sent a great
number of Palatines to New York, when your Majesty having not
been truly informed how those Acts were obtained, was prevailed
on to confirm the Act of Assembly made in Lord Bellomont's
time and to reject the Act of repeal, and to grant petitioner's
lands to those Palatines, by which means petitioner who has been
in your Majesty's sea-service during your whole reign etc. is
deprived of his property, and of an estate for wch. he had been
offer'd 10,000 sterl. in England, without being heard in his
defence, or having the least notice thereof, till at his late return
from ye streights, he was inform 'd of it to his great surprize.
Prays to be restored, there being other unappropriated lands in
New York sufficient to receive the Palatines, or that he may be
given an equivalent. Subscribed,
89. i. Lord Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Planta-
tions. Whitehall. Sept. 4, 1710 (sic). Above is re-
ferred to the Council of Trade for their report thereon.
Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 31, Read
Nov. 1, 1711. 1 pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 28; and
5, 1122. pp. 441-444.]
Sept. 5. 90. Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Virginia. Plantations. Acknowledges letters etc. of March 12 and April 13.
Immediatly upon the receipt of H.M. commands concerning the
86 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
boundarys, 1 dispatch 'd an express to Mr. Hyde, whom we look
upon here, to be Governor of North Carolina, desiring him to let
me know whether he had received authority from the Lords
Proprietors to appoint new Commissioners, that I might pursuant
to H.M. pleasure appoint the time and place of their meeting,
and shall upon the return of his answer take all possible care for
expediting this affair. I shall according to H.M. commands
publish the repeal of the Law passed in 1666 declaring what is
meant by seating of land. But I hope your Lordps. will be fully
satisfyed by perusing the Act for settling the titles and bounds of
lands passed last Session of Assembly, and what I have formerly
writt on that subject, that there is no occasion for publishing
H.M. Order in Council of April 17, 1707, of which your Lordps.
have now sent me a duplicate. Your Lordps. will observe by
some of rny former letters how much the Country disliked the
Instruction for regulating the taking up of land, insomuch that
it was the chief greivance with which they charged their Repre-
sentatives to the last Assembly. That in pursuance of this
charge the house of Burgesses made early application to me for
granting patents for land upon the former terms, and that by my
answer to their Address and some other means I had the good
fortune to stave off a representation which they intended to make
to H.M. on that subject, by all which your Lordps. will find how
little hopes there is, that the Assembly will pass the 84th Article
of my Instructions into a law as is proposed by H.M. Order in
Council of March 24th. The condition of cultivating and
improving mentioned in that Instruction, has been and is still
thought so hard and impracticable, that your Lordps. may
remember what pressing applications the President and Council
formerly made for obtaining an alteration of it ; yet notwithstand-
ing the general prejudice against this Instruction, I thought my-
self so far obliged to support it, that I would not suffer the last
Assembly in their law concerning land, to mention anything of
the manner of granting or terms of seating otherwise than to
oblige the Patentee to comply with the condition of his patent on
the penalty of forfeiture of his land ; and having afterwards
made the patents conformable to H.M. Instructions as to the
conditions of cultivating and improving. I am humbly of opinion
that H.M. Instruction being the rule for the Governor's granting
of land, and the late law making it so penal for the patentee
if he does not comply with the condition of his grant, H.M.
intentions are as fully answered as if that Instruction were
passed into a Law in terminis, which can never be expected
from an Assembly. For tho' the necessity of passing in the last
Assembly a law to settle the titles of land between party and
party, for avoiding that confusion wch. must have been introduced
in all the Courts of Justice upon the repeal of the former, made
them more easily yeild to the clauses I proposed, yet the people
are now so much convinced that all the fraudulent practices
formerly used to avoid the payment of their quitt-rents are by
this means obviated, that they would gladly lay hold of any
handle to new-model that Law, and I very much fear the propos-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 87
1711.
ing the enacting H.M. Instructions into a law, would rather give
them occasion not only to complain against it, but even to en-
deavour a repeal of that now in force, which is look'd upon as
one that contains a clause or two the most beneficial for the
Crown, that ever passed a Virginia Assembly : and as I may say
it was not without a good deal of Address that 1 obtain'd them,
so I'm sure I yeilded none either in this law or any other that I
passed, which I imagined would be anyways prejudicial to the
Crown or to Great Britain, as indeed the Virginians do me the
honour to characterize me for a person who will take care that
neither of those interests shal lose ground when I command ;
while on the other hand they do not stick to tax their Burgesses
with being either asleep or guilty of too great complaisance when
they passed a law which abridges them of their former priviledges.
So that upon the whole matter, I hope your Lordps. will beleive
I act for H.M. service if I forbear to lay H.M. Order in Council
before the Assembly untill I receive your Lordps. further opinion
upon what- 1 have here represented, tho' I'm afraid it cannot be
so speedily dispatch'd as to reach hither before the next session,
which is to meet Nov. 7th. Notwithstanding H.M. positive
orders notifyed to the Lords proprietors and Government of
South Carolina to permitt the traders of Virginia freely to pass
through that Province to trade with the Western Indians, that
Government have in June last thought fitt to pass an Act in
contradiction to H.M. order, and thereby imposed on the Vir-
ginia traders all the hardships H.M. intended graciously to remedy
by her Order in Council, and having obtained from Coll. Quary
now lately returned from Carolina a copy of that Act, I have
here inclosed it not doubting your Lordps. will thereupon make
such a representation to H.M. as may free the inhabitants of this
Colony from the like future impositions. Signed, A. Spots wood.
Endorsed, Reed. April 10, Read Dec. 11, 1712. 3 pp. Enclosed,
90. i. Copy of Act of Carolina, June 28, 1711, to oblige those
traders that come from Virginia arid other neighbouring
Colonys to trade with the Indians or white persons living
within this Province and Government to come first to
Charlestown and take out licences to trade, and to be
subject to the like regulations and pay the same dutys of
import and export with the inhabitants of this Province
and Government who trade with the Indians living within
the bounds of the same. Same endorsement. 4 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 84, 84 i. ; and (without enclosure)
5, 1363. pp. 416-421.] .
Sept. 5. 91. Lt. Governor Spotswood to [? Lord Dartmouth]. Acknow-
Virginia. ledges letter of April 14, with H.M. Order in Council March 24 q.v.
The measures I have taken already in making all patents for
land conformable to H.M. Instructions, together with the clauses I
got inserted in an Act pass'd last Session of Assembly (v. March 6),
will I hope fully answer H.M. intentions without putting the
Assembly to the tryal of enacting that into a law against which
the countrey has already show'd a general dislike. I have
88 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
writt fully by this conveyance to the Lords ( 'ommrs. for Trade,
etc. Signed, A. Spotswood. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 14.]
Sept. 9. 92. Brigadier General Hill to Lord Dartmouth. Encloses
From on board duplicates of July 31. The 30th of July wee sayled with a fair
th6 iiTthe* 0r wm( -l h' 0111 Nantasket Bay, in New England, and had a very good
Spanish River, passage to Gaspee Bay, where the wind took us short Aug. 18,
and obliged us to go in there for a day or two, but it coming fair
the 20th, wee continued our voyage to the River of St. Lawrence
wth. various winds, and Aug. 22 the wind came up very fair,
and wee being with all the men of warr and transports in the
mouth of the River, hoped for a very quick passage to Quebeck,
but about half an hour after tenii at night, the Fleet fell in with
the land of the North side of the River, near the Isle of Eggs,
where with great danger to the whole Fleet wee lost the transports
Maluroagh, Smirna marcht., Colchester. Saml. and Ann, Isabel
Ann ami Catherine, Chattham, Nathl. and Eliza, John and Sarah,
with the officers and numbers of men mentioned in the inclosed
list, with severall flatts of cloathing and a large quantity of
provisions, and one of the three ships with corne etc., which I
was obleiged to buy at Boston, before the arrivall of the provisions
from New York. The next day and the day after the Leopard
and some sloops were employed in bringing off the scatter 'd
remains of six and twenty companys of Seamour's, Windress's,
Clayton's and Kane's Regiments, which were so mangled and
bruised on the rocks, and naked withall, that they were not in
any condition of service. After this sudden and unexpected
disaster, it was thought adviseable to know the opinion of the
sea Captains, and to examine the pylotts touching our further
navigation of the river, who were unanimously of opinion, it
was impracticable (v. enclosure ii.). In consequence of which
I and the Colonells under my command thought it for the service,
that since wee could not gett up to Quebeck, wee should without
loss of time come to an anchor in such place as the Admirall
should think most proper, in order to arme what remained of our
shipwrackt troops, and to make a disposition for attaqueing
Placentia, according to the 21st Art. of H.M. Instructions. At
first the Admirall proposed Gaspee Bay, but on second thoughts
judged Spanish River more proper, as being just opposite to
that place ; wee sayled Aug. 25th from the River of St. Lawrence,
and arrived not here till the 4th instant. The Kingston by which
wee expected three storeships, wch. Coll. Hunter was to send with
victualls from New York, joyned us a day or two after, but
brought no provisions ; upon this disapointment a Councill of
Warr of sea and land officers was held, in which the state of our
provisions was considered, and finding them scarce sufficient
to carry us to England, being but 10 weeks at short allowance,
and there being no probability of being supplyed wth. more at
Placentia, by reason of the winds and slouny [? stormy] weather,
of which seamen have had experience this season of the year, the
Councill of Warr was unanimously of opinion that the attempt
upon Placentia was at this time altogether impracticable. (Refers
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 89
1711.
to enclosure iii.). Yesterday the Enter prize, and Try ton's prize
from Virginia came into this place, and wee were in great ex-
pectation when wee saw them in the offin, that the three storeships
with our provisions from New York were come, which would have
most happily changed the scituation of our affairs, in renewing
our hopes of taking Placentia in our return, but the Captains
of those ships told us that Coll. Hunter had sent the Victuallers
by the way of New London. Finding by severall letters which
have been intercepted from Placentia, to some of the French
inhabitants of Nova Scotia, as well as to Monsr. Ponchartraine,
the Secreatary of the Marine in France, that H.M. Garrison of
Annapolis may possibly be attaqued from thence, I thought it
for the service to make a detachment of 350 private men, with a
proportionable number of officers, together with one company
of Mohaques, who will be of use for scouring the woods, and
according to the power given me in my Instructions, I have
appointed Major Cawfield, a gentleman that has served very well,
to be Deputy Governour, which was absolutely necessary for
keeping good order and discipline in the garrison. I have likewise
sent an ingenier and a sufficient quantity of ordnance stores :
and Col. Vetch having represented to me that a man of warr for
attending that garrison is indispensably necessary, and that he
was promissed one from England, I have desired the Admirall
to appoint such ship as he should think proper for that service.
I have only now to add, that I am sencibly afflicted for the loss
of so many of H.M. troops, and the great disappointment wch.
this disaster has occasioned to your hopes of success, and my
endeavours for promoting this service all that was in my power,
referring you to Coll. Clayton's relation of particulars, whom I
have sent to England for that purpose. Signed, J. Hill. 8 pp.
Enclosed,
92. i. List of officers, men and women (35) lost. Total, 740.
Ip.
92. ii. Resolution of Council of War of Sea officers. At a
consultation of sea officers belonging to the squadron
under comand of Sir Hovenden Walker, Kt., Rear
Admirall of the White, on board H.M.S. Windsor,
Aug. 25, 1711, in the River of St. Lawrence. The
respective pilots on board the men of warr having been
severally examined, wee are unanimously of opinion,
that by reason of the ignorance of the said pilots, it is
wholly impracticable to go up the River of St. Lawrence
with the men of warr and transports so farr as Quebeck,
as also the uncertainty and rapidity of the currants
as by fatall experience we have found. Signed, Hoven-
den Walker, Jos. Soanes, Jno. Mitchell, Robt. Arris,
Geo. Walton, Hen. Gore, Geo. Paddon, Jno. Cockburn,
Augustin Rouse. Copy. 1| pp.
92. iii. Resolution of Council of War of sea and land officers
held on board H.M.S. Edgar in the Spanish River,
Sept. 8, 1711. The 21st Art. of H.M. Instructions to
the Generall, for attacking Placentia in his return from
90 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Canada, together with the 10th Art. of the Admirall's
Instructions to the same purpose being severally read,
as also a letter from Governour Dudley to ye Admiral!
touching the lateness of the preparation of provision
now makeing in that Colony, for supply of the troops,
if they had wintered at Quebeck, the question was putt
as followeth (vizt.), the state of provissions for the ships
of warr and land forces being considered, which pro-
visions not amounting to above 10 weeks at short
allowance computing it from ye 12th of this instant
September, as appears by the Agent Victuallers' signed
account thereof, and allowing it to be all good, and to
hold out to that time, the said 12th Sept. being the
soonest we can saile from hence, and there being no
hopes of any supply from New England before the begin-
ning of November at soonest, as appears from advice
received from the Governour of New England, and the
opinion of two of the members of the Councill of Warr
who know that country, together with the uncertainty
of any provisions coming to us at Newfoundland by
reason the season of the year is so farr advanced, which
makes the navigation of that coa^t so dangerous. The
Councill of Warr is unanimously of opinion that the
attempt for reduceing Placentia under the circumstances
and difficultys above-mentioned, is at this time altogether
impracticable, and that it is for H.M. service that the
squadron and transports with the Brittish troops do
forthwith return to great Brittain, and the forces raised
in New England, to that Colony. Signed, Hovenden
Walker, Joseph Soanes, John Mitchell, Robt. Arris,
Geo. Walton, Hen. Gore, Geo. Paddon, Jn. Windor,
Jn. Cockburn, Is. Cooke, (Brigadier) J. Hill ; (Colls,
of H.M. troops), Char. Churchill, Wm. Windress, M.
Kempenfelt, Jaspr. Clayton, P. Kirke, Hen. Disney,
Richd. Kane ; (Cols, of the forces raised in New England)
Sam. Vetch, Shad. Walton. Copy. 2| pp. [C.O. 5,
9. Nos. i4 } 3 ? 12, 13.]
Sept. 10. 93. Deputy-Governor Saltonstall to Mr. Secretary St. John.
Newhaven. As soon as I reed. H.M. commands of Feb. 21 last, relating to the
Expedition, I ordered a convention of the Council and Assembly.
They unanimously agreed with me to express our gratitude and
ready obedience to H.M. (Address enclosed by this first oppor-
tunity of the Harley packet boat), and afterwards did with all
readiness pass the necessary Acts, for furnishing our quota of
men for that service. With them I march'd to Col. Nicholson at
Albany. I took leave of him there, July 29th, he designing the
next day to follow the troops to Woodcreek (where they take
water to pass the Lake Champlain) the most of which were on
their march thither some days before. There was a very good
appearance, at Albany of the 5 nations of Indians, commonly
caU'd ye Iroquois, and everything requisite in the Expedition
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 91
1711.
was in good readiness by the indefatigable care and diligence of
H.E. Col. Hunter, and Lt. Genii. Nicholson : The Indians shew'd
a good forwardness in the service. Upon my return to this
Colony I mett with the good news of Genl. Hill's and Admiral
Walker's being in the River of St. Laurence, standing up for
Quebeck, with a fair wind, on Aug. 13th. And I am in good hope
that I may in a short time advise your Honr. of the good success
of H.M. arms, etc. Signed, Gurdon Saltonstall. Endorsed, R.
Oct. 22. 2 pp. Enclosed,
93. i. Address of the Governor and Company of Connecticut
to the Queen. We your Majesties most dutifull and
loyall subjects convened in Generall Assembly, having
received your Majesties commands to be aiding in carry-
ing on the Expedition your Majestic has ordered against
the French inhabiting North America ; esteem it our
duty in the most humble and thankfull manner, to
acknowledge the great instance which, in appointing
that expedition your Majestic has given us of your
Royal concern for the safety and weal of your Colonys
against that enemy. Their lying in wait to kill and
scalp single persons on our frontiers, their surprizing
and cutting off families, their stealing of captives,
torturing and making slaves of them, and suchlike
murthers and cruelties, is what they call carrying on
the warr. All which is frequently done by their skulk-
ing parties (in conjunction with the Indians in their
interest, whose bloody and barbarous manners they
have imbibed, and long practised). And these are
mischiefs which nothing can give us so good hope of
security from, as that removall of this enemy which
your Majestic designes. We shall with all possible
vigour and diligence apply ourselves to the executing
of that part, which your Majestic has allotted us, etc.
Return thanks for supply of clothing, arms, and ammuni-
tion, and pray for success of the expedition and H.M. arms
everywhere. June 19, 1711. Signed, Gurdon Salton-
stall, and Caleb Stanley, Secy. By order of the Generall
Assembly. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. Nos. 14, 14 i.]
Sept. 11. 94. Col. King to Mr. Secretary St. John[s], Encloses con-
LdsoT 1 ^ nua ^ on of Journal (v. July 25). I flatter'd myself so much with
in the mouth of the hopes of succeeding on this expedition so truly advantagious
Spanish River to England and so heartily desir'd and put into that forward-
in the Island of nesg an( j g OO( j method by you : that I can't express the
Cape Britton in , J ., J ,. . , .
N. America, greatness of my concern for the dissapomtment : nor the uneasi-
ness it gives me to think what a loss it will prove to our poor
American Coloneys, how much it will contribute to depopulate
their frontiers : to diminish their trade, and discourage all people
by the constant wars they must now be oblig'd to maintain,
from settleing among them or improving the lands. And what
is still a more melancholy reflextion, that they dare hardly
expect any releif for the future, when they see this great effort
92 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
England made to succour them thus ruffled and defeated, not-
withstanding a General conducted it who did all that was humane-
ly possible to make it successful!. This is what was obvious to
all, and a justice that must be done him upon all occasions to his
Queen, his country and friends. Since it's determin'd we are
to return, I hope in a very little time after you receive this, I
shall have the honour of waiting on you in London, etc. Signed,
Rich. King. P.S. I sent you by Capt. Cullyford of the H umber
an account of our proceedings to Aug. 15, etc. Endorsed, Rd.
Oct. 6, per Col. Clayton. 2 pp. Enclosed,
94. i. Continuation of Col. King's Journal. Aug. 15, 1711,
the Devonshire and Humber left the Fleet to cruize to
the latter end of this month betwixt the Island of St.
Paul's and Cape Ray, and then to proceed to St. John's
in New-found-land, and from thence to England. This
day the Admiral sent likewise away the Chester to
Boston to convoy the mast fleet from thence. The Kith
we made the Capes Bonaventura and Gaspa, and the
17th the Island of Anticosta. As we were both these
dayes prevented by contrary winds from entring into
the mouth of the River of St. Laurens, the Admiral
thought fitt to sail with all the Fleet to the Bay of
Gaspa the 18th and anchor there, least we should be
despersed or drove back by contrary winds. Aug. 20th.
The wind coming to the East we sail'd out of the Bay of
Gaspa and the Admiral order'd a Basque fishing vessell
we found there to be burnt, not being able to gett her
equipt in time to carry her with us. The 21st the
Mountague, Saphire and Sunderland join'd the fleet.
They were sent to cruise off of Bonaventura and the
Bay of Gaspa while we were there at anchor, etc. The
22nd since yesterday at noon to twelve a clock to-day
our course was N.W. and by W. distance 34 miles.
The 23rd we had rainy and foggy weather with a very
fresh gale at East. At 8 at night we found by our logg
to have run since yesterday at noon 45 miles west.
At this time the Admiral lay'd by for fear of falling
foul on one side or other of the River : for it was then
so excessively dark we could not see from one end to
the other of our vessell. At half an hour after ten we
saw land to leeward of us, and as soon as we were
convinc'd it was so (for we all imagin'd to be several
leagues distant from it) we made with the utmost
expedition all the sail we could to gett clear of it, but
finding we could not we were forc'd to come to an
anchor near 1' Isle aux (Eufs in 7 fathom water with a
shoal of rocks on each quarter within a cable's length
of us, which we plainly perceiv'd by the waves breaking
over them in a very violent manner. Till the minuit
we came to an anchor it rain'd very hard and blew a
perfect storm directly on shore, when of a sudden it
fell quite calm. If it had continu'd with the great
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 93
1711.
violence it did before we came to an anchor ; our anchors
could not have held and we should have all been lost.
For the wind and the vast seas which ran would have
broke our ship in moment in ten thousand pieces against
the rocks ; and betwixt them and the shore 'twas at least
five miles. At two in the morning the wind shifted to
the north. At four we weigh'd our sheet anchor ; and
at five a fresh gale coming fortunately off the shore from
the west, we cutt our small and best bore cables and
sail'd off. All the night we heard nothing but ships
fireing and showing lights as in the utmost distress :
so that we could not but conclud that the greatest part
of our Fleet was lost : and indeed there were not 10
ships in the whole that were not in danger of being cast
away. The 24th the Leopard with several sloops were
sent in to bring off the men and provisions that were
sav'd from the wracks. In the afternoon we had an
account that we lost ten sail, viz. eight transports with
soldiers, one loaded with corn, and a sloop belonging to
a suttler. All this day the wind was contrary at South-
west, so we ply'd from one side the river to the other.
The 25th the Admiral call'd a Council of war of all his
captains aboard the General to have their opinion
whether we could proceed with any safety. They all
unanimously agreed that it was not practicable to go
up the River with this Fleet so late in the season without
Pilates : every one of those we had declaring they were
not capable of takeing the charge of any one of the men
of war : so that the General and Admiral resolv'd forth-
with to return : quitt the Quebeck expedition and en-
deavour to reduce Placentia : and having given orders
to the Leopard with three brigantines and sloops to
bring off some of our men who went into the woods and
all the provisions he could : and then to follow us to
Spanish River in the Island of Cape Britton, about
7 in the evening we bore away with all the rest of the
Fleet for the Bay of Gaspa. The 26th the Admiral sent
away the Mountague to stop the Devonshire and Humber,
and the Saphire to Boston with letters to recall Nichol-
son, and to acquaint the Governours Dudley and
Hunter of our misfortune. Sept. 4th we came to an
anchor in the mouth of Spanish River. The 5th we
were employ'd in takeing an account of our provisions
in order to make an equal distribution of them, and in
makeing an enquiry through all the Fleet for Pilates to
Placentia. The 6th the Leopard join'd the fleet with
the sloops left with him to bring off the wracks : and
eight of the New England transports which did not see
us when we bore away or return 'd. There join'd us
likewise with him the Kingston man of war, who being
assur'd by Capt. Cullyford of the Humber, Aug. 20th,
off of Cape Britton that our Fleet was then at Quebeck :
94 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
he took our fleet in passing by us in the Lake of St.
Laurens for the French Fleet, therefore stood from us :
and if he had not fortunately mett with the Leopard
at his returning out of the mouth of the river, he would
have made the best of his way to Quebeck. He brought
an account from Boston, from whence he parted Aug.
12th that Capt. Southwyck, Commander of the Province
gaily, would be ready to sail from thence in eight
dayes with the brigantine hir'd for the transportation of
the artillery stores from Annapolis f that the provisions
to be provided in New England could not be sent away
before Oct. 1st : and that Col. Hunter would send as soon
as possibly he could the remaining part of the provisions
he was order'd to provide to New London, from whence
the Admiral said he would take care they should be
convoy'd to us. He brought us likewise the copys of
two letters from M. Coste Belle, Governour of Placentia,
to M. Ponchartrin, wherein the receipt of a letter from
him of Feb. 15th was acknowledg'd, giving an account,
that preparations were makeing in England for an
expedition against them and Canada : and that these
preparations consisted of seven men of war and 3000
men : that just before the dates of his letter which are
of July 22 and 23 he had intelligence by several fishing
sloops belonging to New England taken and brought
into Placentia that our Fleet was arriv'd at Boston.
Then having given a tolerable exact account of our
force both by sea and land and what we were to be
join'd by from our American Coloneys : he proceeds to
give much the same account we had at Boston of the
strength of Quebeck : how prepar'd they were there to
receive us. But that their cheif defence and what they
depended most upon was the difficult navigation of the
River, which he hop'd would defeat us ; that he had sent
H.E's. letters by a sloop to M. Vaudreul, who had
already invited all his Indian allies to come to Quebeck
to a feast he would there prepare for them of English
flesh ; that he (M. Coste Belle) had for some time ex-
pected to be attack'd ; therefore had made preparations
accordingly : and did not doubt but to give a very
different account of Placentia to what the Governour
of Accadia did of Annapolis : that the regular troups,
the militia and fishermen at Placentia would make above
2000 men ; however he begs he would order that the
three companies taken at Annapolis might be sent him :
as also some provisions which he should be in extream
want of ; the greatest part of those that were coming to
him from Quebeck being lost in sloops coming down the
River of St. Laurents : that he had sent Monsieur la
Ronde (under the pretence of settling an exchange for
prisoners) to observe what preparations were makeing
there, and disswade the Governmt. from giving us any
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 95
1711.
supply s of men or provisions. With the copys of
these letters there was one from the Ingeneer of Placentia
directed likewise to Monsieur Pontchartrain wherein he
assures him that the forts and redoutes there were in
a very good condition and capable with the forces they
had to make a long defence : that all the inhabitants of
Accadia by the ill usage and great severity they mett
with had taken up arms and block 'd up our fort there :
that he understood they had a great opinion of him :
therefore he beg'd he would order him thither, and he
did not question but he would in a very little time
drive us out of that country. The Kingston man of war
had these letters from the Warwick off of Cape Britton,
who was going with them to the Governour of New
England according to orders he had receiv'd to carry
or send him all news of consequence he should meet
with. They were taken in a merchant vessell going to
France by two of our privateers. The 1th the General
and Admiral call'd a Council of War of the sea and land
officers to lay before them our present state and to have
their opinion how we should proceed further. As soon as
the Council had examin'd the account of our provisions
and found it would only serve for 11 weeks at short
allowance, they all unanimously agreed (I'm inform'd)
that without risquing the loss of both fleet and army,
there was no other course to be taken but returning from
hence directly home to England. Whereupon, the 8th,
the Agent Victuallers were order'd to make an equal
divident of the provisions that in case of separation each
vessell might have wherewithall to carry him home.
The artillery stores provided at Boston and put aboard
the Brittish transports were order'd to be put aboard
the New England yessells in order to be sent to Ann-
apolis : and to garrison that place and releive the New
England troups and marines there 350 men with officers
in proportion were appointed to be detach't out of our
forces. The 9th the master of a sloop from Quebeck
bound to Placentia with provisions was brought in here.
He said he left Quebeck the 22nd of the last month,
that they had been working at the fortifications of the
town all the summer : that they had perfected the in-
ward rampart which was ruin'd and that they had made
a strong retrenchment from Beauport to the Town, the
only proper place for landing at ; that M. Vaudreul was
at Montreal fortifying that place ; that there were 1000
regular troups in Canada, and above 10,000 militia :
that hearing nothing of us when he came away, they did
not expect we could visit them this year ; and that they
had no account at Montreal the 16th of Aug. that our
troups were advancing by Chambly. The IQth the
Enterprize and Triton men of war join'd us here from
Virginia, they brought no other news than that Gover-
96 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
nour Spotswood had sent 900 barrils of pork to New
York to be sent from to us. This day it was resolv'd to
send the Leopard man of war to England to inform the
Governmt. of our misfortune and that we were coming
all home. 8 pp.
94. ii. An account of the men and vessells that were lost
and shipwrack't neare les Isles aux (Eufs in the River
of St. Lauren's the night of the 23rd Aug. , 1711. Totals :
Officers (including 1 Surgeon and 1 Chaplain) 31,
N.C.O.'s. and privates, 676 ; women 35, (=742) from
General Seymour's, Col. Windress's, Col. Kane's and
Col. Clayton's regiments.
Transports lost : Colchester (530 tons) ; Nathaniel
and Elizabeth, 297; Samuell and Ann, 225 ; Marlborrough,
218 ; Isabella, 326 ; Chatham, 150 ; John and Sarah, ;
Smirna merchant, 364 ; a provision vessel of 120 tuns.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 898. Nos. 15, 15 i., ii.]
Sept. 12. 95. Governor Hunter to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
New York. Acknowledges letters etc. of March 16, April 10, and June 29.
I must begin with humbly begging your Lordps'. pardon for
haveing omitted acquainting you with what was contain'd in
one of mine to his Grace the Duke of Marlborough relateing to
ye stores, arms and amunition in the forts of this Province, and
indeed, ye Assemblys of ye two Provinces, the care and imploying
of ye Palatines, the Indian affaires, the present expedition, and
ye perplexitys in both Governments, hardly affording me time for
naturall rest, may be allowed to plead for me, if I should un-
warilly be guilty of such another omission at this time. That
matter of the stores is now at an end, and sufficientley remedyed
by the quantity brought hither for ye Expedition, but can now
send noe perfect account of what may remaine because I know
not as yet what may be left at Albany after ye troops imployed
upon this Expedition are supplyed. As to Mr. Polhampton's
Memoriall (v. April 10th) I had long ago taken all imaginable
care of ye musters of the four companys, haveing given strict
charge to those that muster them to pass none upon the rolls but
ye effectives, but there is an evil there which wants a remedy, and
may have occasion'd that Gentleman's mistake in his computation
of ye numbers of ye effectives, since ye first establishmt. of
these four company's there has not beene one invalid belonging
to them taken into ye hospitalls, tho' they have paid all
along for that purpose as ye rest of ye army has done, soe
that at this time wee have about 50 of that kind who are not
able to doe any manner of duty, and are a charge to their Capts.
not being able to subsist upon their pay. I humbly propose that
some homeward bound man of warr may be ordered to transport
them to England in order to their being received in ye hospitalls,
or to save ye trouble and expence of transportation that H.M.
may be moved to give directions to ye Managers to enter upon
outlyer's pay as it is term'd, such numbers of that kind as shall
be found by speciall musters and ye Governor's certificate to be
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 97
1711.
actually upon ye place. On June 14th I received H.M. Instruc-
tions etc. relateing to ye Expedition against Canada, wherein
I had orders to procure 3 months' provisions for 5000 land forces
which went by sea, and in conjunction with ye Governors of
Connecticut, Rhode Island and Pensilvania to raise 2000 men to
march by way of ye Lakes to Montreall under ye command of
Francis Nicholson Esq. The Quota's were ascertain'd in ye
Council of Warr according to ye proportions in H.M. Generall
Instructions etc. Which forces were accordingly raised to a very
few, except those of Pensilvania from whence wee have had none,
and on Aug. 29th I left them all upon their march beyond Albany
toward ye Lakes compleatly armed, clothed, accoutred and
victualled, being to be followed next day by 800 Indians of ye
Five Nations and their allies from Albany. Inclosed your
Lordships have copyes of my transactions with the Indians upon
this occasion and of another interveiw I luckilly had with them
imediatly before I had received H.M. commands relateing to this
Expedition. Refers to other enclosures, Sessional Papers and
Acts. I have not time being but just return'd from Albany and
the packett on her departure to make my observations on these
Acts, neither doe any that are materiall occurr to me at present,
which is also ye reason I doe not at this time give yr. Lordpps.
ye accots. of these Provinces by seperate letters. I informed yr.
Lordpps. how oddly the former Assembly of New York had in a
manner dissolv'd themselves. This Assembly which consists of
all the same members save one, unaccountably ye day after
they had resolved to take ye latter part of my Speech relateing
to ye support of Government into their consideration, addressed
for a prorogation, they are to meet againe on Monday next, but
to as little purpose I beleive as formerly, for soe long as ye Mem-
bers hold their elections by noe other tenure, but that of saveing
ye publick money or starveing the Government, there is nothing
to be depended upon from them upon that score, tho' their
frequent sessions cost the country more than a reasonable
support of Government would doe. I shall make but one remark
more on ye conduct of this Assembly. When by inadvertency or
designe there happens some mistakes in their Acts, which render'd
their passing ye Council impossible, I had noe remedy left but
after a first reading in Councill to returne them privately to ye
Speaker, as if they had not been read with a request to amend
them in their owne house, for they will not admitt of an amend-
ment from ye Councill tho' but of one word in what they call a
money Bill, tho' ye safety of ye whole depended upon it. This
conduct how unparliamentary soever (for they will be a parlia-
ment) I was obliged to follow or baulk ye Expedition. As to
ye Palatines, the tumults raised among them by ye ill arts of
such as had a mind to crash ye designe, have had a quite contrary
effect, for since that time, and a new modell of management,
they have been very buissy and very obedient. I have now
prepared neare 100,000 trees, and in ye fall sett them to work
about ye second preparation. Mr. Sackett, who has ye direction
of that work, and seems perfectly well to understand it, has
Wt. 26089. C.P. 7.
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
prepared some thousands in a manner to produce a quantity
of tarr next spring, but that being little better than an experiment
I doe not much depend upon it. Mr. Bridgier's haveing basely
declined, nay endeavour'd to betraye this service, has promoted
it, soe that I think Providence favours it, for the gentleman now
imployed has been three yeares amongst ye tarr workers in the
Eastern countrys, and his manner is soe different from Mr.
Bridgier's that I have good reason to conclude that he knew little
of ye matter and would have served only to have thwarted ye
other and obstructed ye designe. I beleive if he were strictly
examined he would discover upon what inducements hee has
acted soe treacherously. I yeilded to his importunity and let
him goe to Boston in ye winter, hee promissing a speedy returne,
hearing nothing from him in ye spring when I expected him to
attend that work, I wrote to him to meet me at ye Palatine settle-
ments, which by a letter he refused pretending want of sufficient
encouragement. I wrote to him againe with possitive orders to
repaire thither, as hee was directed by H.M. speciall letters, told
him that I had apply'd to your Lordpps. for an additionall
sallary for him and putt him in mind that hee had never beene
refused money when he called for it, but all to ye same purpose.
I protest to yr. Lordpps. whilst hee attended that work hee lived
as I did, and to my knowledge hee did not expend ye value of a
crowne, and had severall summes of money to ye value of about
30 from me dureing that time. I have had by this pacquett a
letter from Mr. Lownds directing me to enquire into some abuses
of his with relation to ye Queen's woods. I have not had time to
make a perticular enquirey and have only heard in generall that
instead of preserveing hee has waisted them by giveing deputa-
tions to such as have saw mills, for certain yearly summes of
money paid him by them, by which meanes all ye valluable
timber in these parts is destroyed. That your Lordpps. may
informe yrselfes. whether wee be in ye right in ye pursuite of this
manufacture, I'll give you an account of Mr. Sackett's method
of prepareing ye trees ; in the spring when the sapp is up, hee
barkes ye north quarter of ye circumference about two foot in
length where ye sun has least force to draw out the turpentine.
In the fall, before ye sap falls downe, hee barks ye south quarter
about 2ft. 4in. ; next spring the east quarter for ye former reason,
about 2ft. 8in., and in that fall the remaineing quarter near 3ft.
After which the part above what is barked being full of turpentine
is cutt downe splitt and putt into kills for tarre. That no hands
may be idle we employed the boys and girls in gathering knotts
whilst their fathers were a barking, out of which hee has made
about threescore barrells of good tarr, and hath kills ready to sett
on fire for about as much more soe soone as hee getts casks ready
to receive it. Now my Lords tho' I have mett with discourage-
ments unspeakable, yet concludeing it impossible that ye wisdome
of H.M. Councills should lett drop so beneficiall a project, and so
considerable a branch of trade, when it is in soe hopefull a way,
I have launch't out all ye money and creditt I could raise in ye
pursuite of it, tho' I have as yet noe returnes to my first bills
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 99
1711.
I have drawne on my Lord Treasurer for about halfe a years
subsistance for that people ending June 24th last according to ye
inclosed scheme, which I beg your Lordpps. to second with your
recommendations. I have made the best bridge in all North
America over the river betweene the pine woods and their settle-
ments, have laid in timber and all other matterialls for building
the store-house upon the place, and am about the purchase of a
convenient house without ye gates of New York on ye harbour
for a generall storehouse. Least I should tire your Lordpps. I
shall referr you to my next for more perticular accounts of this
and all other matters. I shall only beg leave to acquaint your
Lordpps. a little with the deportment of one Mr. Birchfeild who
came over here Surveyor Generall of ye Customes much abt. the
time I did. I acquainted ye Commissioners of H.M. Customes,
how hee had without cause turned out ye most sufficient gentle-
man in ye province of Jersey's of ye Collector's place of Amboy
there ; and putt in his roome ye most insufficient and infamous
person in either province, hee has since that time so persecuted ye
Collector here Mr. Byerley, without any aparent cause, and at last
suspended him without acquainting me with his reasons, tho' I
had told him before hee was a patent officer, and that as such I
considered hee had noe power of suspending him, that I verilly
beleive hee has some secret reasons for his conduct which hee will
not owne. When I urg'd H.M. patent to him, hee replyed she
had noe power to grant such a patent, which indeed stop't my
mouth, thinking after that all replyes were needless. Since that
time I have received H.M. letter commanding me to allow to
Mr. Byerley his sallary dureing ye time of his illegall suspention
(as it is there) called by the then Lord Cornbury, and to dissallow
to Mr. Faukonier who executed that office for that time by his
Lordpp's. commission, the sallary hee has in his accounts made
good to himselfe for that service ; which I think will sufficiently
justifie Mr. Byerley in refuseing his suspention as to his patent.
I can guess noe other reason for his conduct, but that hee had a
mind to pack a sett of officers for a purpose very frequent in his
mouth that hee was sent hither to make his fortune ; hee is now
gone for England, and Mr. Byerley has acquainted the Lord
Treasurer and Commissioners of ye Customes very perticularly
with everything relateing to this affaire. P.S. I have not had
time to gett a copie of my Interview wt. the Indians before I
reed. Mr. Sec. St. John's letters, but I have inclos'd to him that
I had, to which I beg leave to referr you. Your Lordps. will also
receive herewith the body of Laws of New York from 1691, as
you are pleased to order. Signed, Ro. Hunter. Endorsed,
Reed. 22nd, Read 31st Oct., 1711. 11 pp. Enclosed,
95. i. Account of subsistance of Palatines at New York/
Nov. 2, 1710 June 24, 1711, at Qd. per diem adults,
4L per diem young. Total, 10,243 19s. 8d. Endorsed,
Reed. Oct. 22, 1711. 2 pp.
95. ii. Propositions of the Five Nations and River Indians
to Governor Hunter in Albany, Aug. 17-18, 1711,
relating to the Expedition against Quebec. Indians
100 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
bring between 7 and 800 warriors for the Expedition,
and receive presents etc. Set out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp.
265-277. Endorsed, Reed. Nov. 3, 1711. 23 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1050. Nos. 27, 27 i., ii. ; and (without enclosures)
5, 1122. pp. 428-440.]
Sept. 12. 96. Governor Hunter to [? Mr. Secretary St. John}. On
New York. J un e 14th last I had ye honour not without a great deale of
pleasure of yours of Feb. 6th and 21st with H.M. Instructions
and commands relateing to ye Expedition agt. H.M. enemys in
these parts, by an express from ye Lt. Genii. Nicholson who was
but just then arrived at Boston with ye two men of warr and
transports destin'd for this place. The express reacht me 100
miles up in Hudson's River upon my return from an interveiw
with the Five Indian Cantons (v. No. 95 ii.). I hope it will not
be tedious to you to read ye occasion of this interview, for I have
ever since look't upon it as a favourable presage of success. It
was briefly thus ; Being inform'd that Joncoeur and Longeuil,
two French officers and agents, were then in the Seneca's country,
the most remote and powerfull of all our savage allies, that they
had already built a block-house in their cheife place of residence,
and had projected a fort there, I sent Col. Schuyler with some
other men of interest with the Indians to require ye performance
of their former promisses and engagements, that the blockhouse
should be forthwith pulled downe, the French dismist, and their
promise that for ye future they would receive noe more such upon
such errands, all which they performed tho' with some difficulty,
and desired in company with the cheife of the other four cantons
to meet me at Albany, where accordingly I met them. They
renewed their covenant, promiss'd punctuall obedience to all
H.M. commands, and at my desire broke off the designe of a
warr they had meditated agt. some of the farr Indian Nations,
promising not to stir from home without leave. Upon receipt
of ye express, I dispatch 't another back to Albany with orders
to detaine 10 Sachims of each Canton till further orders. At
New York I gave all necessary orders for bread and other pro-
visions, ordered the Fever sham to Virginia and Maryland for
pork, this country affording none, and then went to New London
in Connecticut to concert matters with the Councill of Warr
constituted by H.M. for that purpose. Refers to enclosure. I dis-
patcht Col. Schuyler from New London with orders to ye Sachims
above-mentioned to bring downe imediatley all their fight-
ing men with their arms and canoes to Albany. Being return'd
to New York, I had ye Assembly of ye two provinces to manage,
provisions to secure for the forces by sea and land, and Indians,
and batteaus to build for their transportation. Time begun to
press, for at New London wee had news of ye arrivall of ye whole
fleet. What past in ye two Assemblys, which met ye one at
New York ye 2nd of July, the other at Perth Amboy the sixth,
the Journals of Councills and Assemblys of both provinces will
amply informe you. The Assembly of New York raised 10,000
for that use, and their quota of men being 600 : tho' they grumbled
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 101
1711.
much at ye proportion, which however is warranted by H.M.
Generall Instructions, yet they resolved to raise them in this
nianner,350 Christians, 150 Long Island Indians and 100 Palatines,
which they desired of me, on ye Province's account. All which
were raised except the Indians, of which number I cold find but
50, all ye rest by ye artifices of those who call themselves their
masters being retir'd to their lurking holes in ye woods. I
found meanes howe'r to find about 40 more from Connecticut.
These sea-coast Indians being of great use for managing batteaus
and canoes and all other hard labour. The Assembly of ye
Jerseys raised 5000 for this service to be disposed on by me ; as
the Minutes will inform you. I imployed all hands and arts for
levy's there ; and with some difficulty found at last neare upon
200 volunteers. In short before ye end of ye month, I had ye
troops levy'd, clothed, accoutred and victualled and upon their
march for Albany, had ready made 330 batteaus, capable of
carrying each 6 men with their provisions, and had sent round to
Boston a sufficient quantity of bread, and a very considerable
stock of other provisions, the pork from Virginia not being then
arrived, and on ye 9th of August went in company with Lt.
Generall Nicholson to Albany. I have imployed 300 Palatines
in this service, 100 upon the account of this province, about
100 more to compleat the regular troops to their establishment
being much weakened by a number of invalids in pay, none of
that kind haveing ever beene taken off their hands or disposed
of into hospitalls since their first establishment. The rest if the
Jersey money does not hold out, must fall to H.M. share. I was
troubled to find noe news of our Indians at Albany. Wee made
however our other troops ffyle off as they came upp. They
arrived at last, on Aug. 24th, a jolly crew, about 800 men in
number, very likely men, with all marks of a hearty disposition
for the service, as you will better understand by ye Minutes of
my proceedings with them, and on Aug. 30th they followed ye
troops. These forces consist of Col. Ingoldesby's Regiment
form'd out of ye regular troops compleated by ye Palatines and
joined by the Jersey forces=600 ; Col. Schuyler's Regiment
consisting of ye troops raised in this province, Long Island,
Indians and Palatines=550 ; Col. Whiteing's Regiment composed
of ye Connecticut levys 360 ; and ye Five Nations with their
allies=800. Upon my arrivall at New York on Sept. 1st, I
received advice by a letter of Admirall Walker's that ye Fleet
which had sailed July 28th was upon Aug. 14th in the mouth of
St. Laurence River in good condition and with a faire wind.
The Admirall presses much the sending after him more provisions
for feare of being obliged to winter there. I have now hi this
port the Feversham with transports haveing on board a
thousand and odd barrills of pork, and as much bread, flower,
butter, pease, rum and tobacco as they can carry, which are to
saile for Quebeck the first wind that off errs, which I hope will
make all easey. This, Sir, is ye present state of this glorious
enterprize, which God prosper, hitherto it has a good aspect, and
if there is any creditt to be given to ye report of three French
102 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
officers whom I have detained prisoners, they comeing under ye
mask of Flaggs of Truce (a pernicious custome in these parts)
but really to spye, they are not there well provided for such an
attempt. I beleive the Queene has not a subject with a heart
warmer for her glory and interest than mine. Pardon me this
vanity since it is all I have to boast of, but you doe me but bare
justice to beleive that the concerne you have in this affaire with
that of a freind whom I have esteemed with more than a common
affection ever since I have known him, and who is now at ye
head of it, wou'd have beene sufficient to determine me to vote
all ye endeavours of my life to it's success. I must begg your
patience whilst I give you an account of an accident which fell
out here, and noe doubt but will be improved to my prejudice,
by those who have all along struck at H.M. interest thro' my
sides. The Feversham being almost unmann'd by the death,
desertion and sickness of her crew, and the only ship of warr
then with us, when I had resolved to send her to Virginia for ye
provision for ye forces, I consulted some of the Councill about an
expedient for manning her, being pinioned by the Act against
pressing. They advised to send for all ye masters of ships and
sloops embargo 'd here, and to borrow some men of each in pro-
portion to ye numbers of their respective crows upon promise to
restore them upon the returne of ye Feversham, which would be
an aparent advantage to them in saveing their provisions, dureing
the embargoe, which accordingly I did, and all of them readilly
complyed, except one Foy the supercargoe of a brigantine just
come in from Bristoll, who used me with that insolence, that the
gentlemen present were ashamed of my patience, the other
masters gave in the names of such money (sic ? men) as they
cold spare. I sent my owne boat on board of them with an
officer to receive the men accordingly, hee returned and told me
that all that Bristoll ship's crew were desireous to goe ; I sent
him back with his former orders for one half e only as it was agreed
on, by the time he gott to ye shipps side, this supercargoe was
got on board, and ye whole crew fell upon ye officer and soldiers
with handspikes, tho' ye officer called to them frequently to take
care what they did, that hee came by order of the Government
and to doe harme to noe man, but one of ye soldiers being knock't
downe, shott one of ye crew who dyed next day. I sent for the
crew on shoare and examined them, they declared all that ye
man who was shott had beene soe drunck and troublesome, that
they had beene obliged to bind him till the boatswain who
they blamed most untyed him on purpose for that tumult.
Which boatswain imediatley after run away. The Coroner's
inquest found that John Moore a soldier had killed that man.
Upon which I made him prisoner. Some time after the Grand
Jury of this City presented and found guilty of murder the said
John Moore and Capt. Riggs upon the evidence of that supercargoe
and some others of his crew, not haveing thought fitt to call for
any other. The Capt. was gone upon ye Expedition, the soldier
I delivered over into ye hands of ye Civill magistrate in order for
his tryall. This Sir is a true account of that affaire. The whole
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 103
1711.
Expedition depended upon the saileing of that ship. She was
unmann'd partly by the evill practices of ye Country who have
not only encouraged such desertion, but protected nay rescued
the deserters when legalley secured and in custody of ye constables,
and when I had ordered a prosecution of such riotts noe Jury
would find for ye Queene tho' upon unquestionable evidence,
and ye Queen's evidence were abused and ill treated by ye people
upon this occasion. I have weary ed my Lord Dartmouth and
ye Lords of Trade with the greivances of this Government. My
sufferings are of small account, but I'll venture once more to
affiruie that without speedy and etfectuall remedy H.M. can make
noe State of any Government in this place, and in a little time,
the desease may prove too strong for ye cure. You are pleas'd
to lay your commands upon me to take into my thoughts the
whole state of the Brittish interest in these parts. I am highly
sensible of ye honour you doe me, and at the same time of my
want of capacity to think much to the purpose on soe great a
subject, which indeed deserves and requires the thoughts of ye
greatest Councill in the Realme. That it is in a bad state, the
frequent tumults in all parts, and ye generall aversion to the
support of Government in most, are sufficient indications. What
you are pleas'd to hint of putting all North America under one
uniforme plan of Government, would most certainely be a sure
remedy, but I am afraid it is too lingering a one for the present
exigencey. The purchaseing proprietyes and takeing away of
usurpations being a work of time and trouble. The propriety
Governments which were moddelled according to the humours
of their respective proprietors, consist of ye Governor and ye
Representatives, the Councill in most being a meer cypher,
haveing noe share of the Legislature. By which meanes the
Governours depending upon the good will of the people for their
daily bread have beene obliged to make such concessions and
past them into Laws, that if these Governments be purchased and
continued upon ye foot they now stand H.M. pays deare for much
trouble and noe dominion. This is ye plan of Government how-
ever they all aime at and make noe scruple to owne it. The
Legislature of ye Governments iniediatly under H.M., is in the
Governor, Councill and Assembly by H.M. gracious concession,
for the time was when in this very province, the Governor and
Councill were the sole Legislature, but the Assembly's claimeiiig
all ye previledges of a house of Commons and stretching them
even beyond what they were ever imagined to be there, should
the Councill by ye same rule lay claime to ye rights and priviledges
of a house of Peers here is a body politick coeordlnate with
(claimeing equall powers) and consequently independant of the
Great Councill of the Realme. A greater assertor of Liberty,
one at least that understood it better than any of them, has
said, that as Nationall or Independant Empire is to be exercised
by them that have ye proper ballance of Dominion in the Nation,
soe Provinciall or Dependant Empire is not to be exercised by
them that have the ballance of dominion in the province, because
that would bring the Government from provincial! and dependant
104 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
to Nationall and Independant. Which is a reflection that
deserves some consideration for the sake of another from ye same
person to wit, That ye Colonies were infants, sucking their
mother's breasts, but such as if he was not mistaken, would
weane themselves when they came of age. Upon the whole
I humbly submitt it, if it may not be adviseable at this time,
untill a proper remedy be applyed, that H.M. by her royall
letters (for what a Governor says passes for nothing) put them
in mind that all such priviledges as they claime as bodys politick,
they hold of her especiall grace and noe longer then they shall use
them for her interest and the support of her Government. This
which most assuredly will be of noe force toward the settling of
a revenue here, yet may be of use to keep them within bounds
in other matters. I wish it were in my power to doe for Mr.
Harison as he deserves and I cold wish. There is one imployment
which is imediatley in your owne that is ye Secretaries place of
the Jersies. Mr. Bass ye present Secretary being soe obnoxious
a man, and indeed infamous, that I cannot beleive H.M. will be
induced to continue him there after the representations I have
made against him. There is another, since Mr. Kiel has given
over thoughts of returneing hither, which is Surveyor Generall
of the Customes in these parts. Mr. Birchfeild who is possessed
of that place being gone for England, and haveing demeaned
himselfe in such a manner whilest here that I can hardly be
perswaded the Commissioners of ye Customes will send him back
hither againe. Hee is very capable of executeing either of these
imployments to ye satisfaction of all concerned, and it will be
noe small pleasure to me to have him soe provided. I humbly
ask pardon for this long tedious epistle, and am afraid I shall be
under an obligation to trouble you with more. In the meantime
I begg your recommendation to my Lord Treasurer for my bills,
and your assistance towards a remedy for my pressures here,
etc. Signed, Ro. Hunter. 11 pp. [C.O. 5, 1084. No. 48.]
Sept. 12. 97. Governor Hunter to Lord Dartmouth. Refers to and
New York, repeats parts of preceding. Signed, Ro. Hunter. 1| pp.
Enclosed,
97. i. Duplicate of No. 96.
97. ii. Extract from same.
97. iii. Copy of the proceedings of the Congress at New Lon-
don, June 21, 22, 1711. 8 pp.
97. iv. Copy of Col. Schuyler's Journal of his journey to
Onondage, May 2, 1711, etc.
97. v. Copy No. 95 ii.
97. vi. Copy of Minutes of a Council of War held at Albany,
Aug. 23 28th, 1711. 1 pp.
97. vii. Copy of Journal of the General Assembly of New
Jersey, July 6 16th, 1711. Printed. 5 pp.
97. viii. Copy of Journal of General Assembly of New York,
July 2 Aug. 4, 1711. 12pp.
97. ix. Copy of Minutes of Council of New Jersey, July 6 16,
1711. 8 pp.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 105
1711.
07. x. Copy of Minutes of Council of New York, June 10
Sept. 3, 1711. 38 pp.
97. xi. Duplicate of No. 95, without postscript.
97. xii. Duplicate of covering letter supra. [C.O. 5, 1091.
Nos. 4357.]
Sept. 12. 98. George Lee to [? Mr. Fox]. Since my last letters to
On board the y Our Honour by the H umber and Devonshire from Cape Brittoon,
marToTwar our fl 66 * in going up the River of Canada has met with a most
in the fatall accident : whether it be ignorance or carelessness in our
Spanish River. Admiral, or by what meanes I know not : the fleet in a fresh
gale the 21st Aug. about 12 at night run ashoar on the North
side of the River at a place called Egg Iseland : by God's great
providence but 9 ships are lost of the whole 75 ships, but no man
of war is lost ; the forces on board the ships cast away are com-
puted to be about 1500 men officers and soldiers, of which number
about 200 were found alive on shoar ; the regiments that suffer'd
most were Col. Seymour's and Col. Windreil's. The ship I
was in with the Rhoad Island men under my command was in the
midst of the breaches among the Red : but Providence has sav'd
us. The next day the Admiral order'd a man of war to find a
harbor and to bring off if possible all that were alive on the shoar,
which has been effected : 8 or 10 vessells besides ours lost the
Fleet. The next night not seeing any signal made by the Admiral
who bore away for this River, we turn'd up believing he was
sayl'd for Canada notwithstanding the loss : but the winds being
against us, forced us to the same place where the ships suffer'd and
the Leopard lay to take up the men : we came to anchor and went
ashoar, where to our surprize we heard the Fleet was come this
way and the Expedition broke, such a dismall spectacle was
never seen, nine ships tore to pieces, and the bodies of 12 or 13
hundred brave men with women and children lying in heapes on
the shoar : we stay'd with the Leopard three days and then sayl'd
hither about 150 leagues ; we met with two violent stormes in
our passage hither, and sprung a leake, but I bless God we came
in safe : here we find the Admiral sending home the New England
vessells, and going home with the fleet : this Leopard carries the
express with this ill news : our expedition is over, a garrison is
going to relieve the men at Port Royall, and the officers that are
upon that establishment are order'd thither, of which number
I am : I have commanded as Lieut. Colonel the Rhoad Island
forces, and notwithstanding the many vacancies I have not
interest enough to get a Capt.'s commission, being wholly a
stranger to General Hill, who has an extraordinary good charr-
acter ; he thinks it so unreasonable that I should go to Port
Royall a Lieut, and be commanded there by those whom I have
these two years commanded as Major and Lieut. Colonell, that
he has granted me a furlow for 9 months to go home, and if possible
to get a captain's Commission ; he has order'd me to sayle to
Rhoad Island with my 200 men and deliver them to the Govern-
ment I have serv'd : I designe God willing to do so, and hope to
see my good friend Genii. Nicholson, whose advice 1 shall allwayes
106 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
begg and take ; we are in very great paine for that good man,
who is marcht to attack Canada by land, and fear that upon this
miscarriage of ours lie will be overpower'd and cut off by the
French and Indians : I designe to stay six months at Boston to
receive your Honour's commands, etc. My humble duty to Lady
Fox and all your family. Signed, George Lee. Copy. 2 pp.
[C.O. 5, 9. No. 15.]
Sept. 13. 99. Wm. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. In
reply to Aug. '31st. The Council of Trade command me to ac-
quaint you, that notwithstanding all the Governors in America
have Instructions to take care that fan 1 books of accounts of all
receipts and payments of publick mony be duly kept, and the
truth thereof tested upon oath, and that authentick copies of
the same be transmitted half yearly to the Lord High Treasurer
and to the Commissioners of Trade and Plantations, and not-
withstanding their Lordships have frequently writ to remind the
Governors of the said Instructions, and to demand such accounts,
they have not received any from the Governments on the Con-
tinent (and only some few from Jamaica) and therefore their
Lordships are not able to inform my Lord High Treasurer
whether there be any mony of H.M. Revenues in that country,
that may be applyed in ease of the expence of the garrison of
Annopohs. But they presume that Mr. Blathwayt, who is
auditor and surveyor of the Revenue arrising in the Plantations
may be able to lay a state of this matter before my Lord High
Treasurer. [C.O. 218, 1. pp. 1820; and 5, 913. pp. 346,
347.]
Sept. 17. 100. Order of Queen in Council. Referring enclosed petition
Windsor, to the Council of Trade and Plantations, who are to report upon
the premises, and to make a strict enquiry, how the money
appropriated by the Assembly to the use of the two sloops has
been applyed, etc. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Reed.
Sept. 25th, Read Oct. 23rd, 1711. l^ pp. Enclosed,
100. i. Petition of Thomas Simson, of Port Royal, and -
Gandy, widow and administratrix of Charles Gandy,
of Jamaica, to the Queen. The General Assembly
in March last passed an Act for raising 5000 for the
fitting out two sloops to cruize about the Island for
security of the Island against privateers. Thomas
Simson, Thos. Finch and the late Charles Gandy, being
all of the Assembly, were appointed Commrs. and
authorized to fitt out the said sloops, and Charles
Chaplain, H.M. Collector, was ordered to pay the said
5000 to them for that purpose. The Commissioners
agreed for the hire of the said two sloops, but could not
procure sailors to mann them, tho' there were near
3000 registred seamen about a year before who had all
deserted. Simson and the other Commrs. in the next
Assembly laid before them an account of their proceed-
ings, as directed by the Act, but to Simson's great sur-
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 107
1711.
prize Charles Chaplain, H.M. Collector, produces to the
Assembly receipts of Finches, one of the Comrnrs., to
the value of 3800, pretended to be paid him in pursu-
ance of the said Act, without Sirnson and Gandy, the
other Commrs'. authority or priority. Finch abscond-
ing, and Charles Gandy being lately dead, the bond
executed to your Majesty by Simson, Gandy and Finch
in the penalty of 5000Z. for a due application of the
publick money, was putt in suit against Simson and
Gandy, who were obliged to pay or secure to be paid the
said 3800. Petitioners are credibly informed that
Finch never received the said 3800 of Chaplin upon
accot. of the said Act, tho' he had given receipts pur-
porting the same, but that Finch was indebted to Chaplin
in the like sum upon some former account, which they
contrived to discharge this way. This is a manifest
fraud and deceit in Chaplin, to prosecute petitioners
in your Majesty's name, when he hath still the publick
money in his own hands, and not one penny issued
but applyed by himself to discharge a private demand,
betwixt Finch and himself, wch. your petitioner's
bond had no relation to. Pray for relief, etc. Copy.
3pp. [C.O. 137, 9. Nos. 46, 46 i. ; and 138, 13. pp.
356360.]
Sept. 18. 101. J.S. to the Earl of Dartmouth. Remarks upon the
present state of Maryland without a Governor from persons'
letters of undoubted credit etc., by J.S. Addressed. Postmarks.
1 p. Enclosed,
101. i. Copy of trial of Thomas Macnemara and John Mitchell
for the murder of John Graham (v. infra.), July Oct. 14,
1710. Verdict of " homicide by chance medley."
Macnemara, pleading benefit of clergy as a clerk, is
branded in the left hand with the letter M. ; Mitchell is
pardoned. 8 pp.
101. ii. Extracts from letters from Maryland concerning above,
(a) Maryland, Aug. 13, 1710. Macknemarra of Annapolis
has killed a master of a sloop and has had ye honour
to be in irons these 4 or 5 months, and his cousin Rud-
man ; if there had been justice done him he should have
been hang'd ; the manner, I suppose he was employ'd
as a lawyer to gett a small quantity of money of one
Graham (a Philadelphia mercht.) and knowing him to
be a stout fellow borrowes a pair of pistolls of Garrett.
It was such a pedling buisness the Sheriff would have
no hand in it, so he gets Garrett's boat away for ye
sloop which lay in ye Bay without an order from ye
Sheriff, so boarding ye sloop, Graham cry'd, Do ye come
friends or enemies ? Cried they, Friends. Then you
are welcom, said Graham. With that said Mackne-
marra, You are my prisoner. I'le carry you ashoar
108 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
with me. With that Graham getts hold of him to toss
him overboard ; in ye scuffle Macknemarra shootes
Graham under ye armpitt with a brace of balls. Graham
with falling breaks his arm and all ye time Mackne-
marra laying him on with ye cock of ye pistoll till he
fractur'd his skull in severall places. Graham cryed,
you have murder'd me. Then being in that weak
condition he getts him ashore to his own house, and sends
for Dr. Moor and some others, but all in vain, he dy'd
ye next morning. Macknemarra and Rudman were
immediatly clapt into irons and try'd, but to no purpose,
it was brought in chance medly, tho' it was wilfull
murder. If they had been honest fellows they had been
both hang'd presently. This Country does no justice
in ye world it quite stinks for want of a Governour to
sett them to rights. They threaten to pull down all
ye prisons if they putt anybody in prison for protested
bills. People runn away daily with 2 or 3 families at
a time in sloops with negroes and all to North Carolina,
(b) Maryland, Arpil 4, 1711. I am sorry we have not
a Governour with us to putt some life and courage into
a drooping people. The villain Macknemarra privately
gott away from hence to Virginia, and from thence in
a small scotch vessell for Scotland. You will probably
see or hear of him in London amongst the merchts.,
and perhaps he will endeavour to be accquainted with
ye Governour ; wherefore take a true relation of his
villanies and barbarities. Describes murder as in
preceding. He was arraign 'd for murder, but ye Roman
Catholicks all his bosom friends pack't a jury for ye
purpose, who found it manslaughter only, for which he
was burnt in ye hand. He staid with us till Dec. last
in which month contrary to ye order of nature, he
bugger'd Wm. Taylard's little boy, who made his own
complaint, whereupon a warrant was issu'd out against
him. He absconded for a few dayes, and afterwards went
off incognito. Mr. C. a noted Roman Catholick was
much his friend in having him accquitted of ye murther.
3 pp. [C.O. 5, 720. Nos. 8, 8 i., ii.].
[Sept. 20.] 102. (a.) List of inhabitants of Nevis and St. Kitts with the
amount of their losses by the late invasion proved by
the Commission, submitted by Stephen Duport, who
appears as their attorney to receive the debentures
granted them by Parliament. 4 pp.
(6.) Form of a Certificate that the above remained after
the invasion and that they or their agents are resettling
their plantations, and that their shares of the bounty
have not been bought or sold by way of stock jobbing,
etc. The whole endorsed, Reed. Read Sept. 20, 1711.
U PP> [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 78, 79.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
109
1711.
[Sept. 20.] 1 03. Draught of a debenture to be issued to the sufferers of
Nevis and St. Kitts. Endorsed, Sept. 20, 1711. Printed. 1 p.
[C.O. 152, 9. No. 80 ; and 153, 11. p. 372.]
Sept. 20.
Whitehall.
104. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General.
Application having been made to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations by several persons here in behalf of the sufferers of Nevis
and St. Christophers, that debentures may be issued to them,
pursuant to an Act past the last Sessions of Parliament, their
Lordships are desirous to speak with you thereupon, etc. [C.O.
153, 11. p. 371.]
[Sept. 20.] 105. H.M. Instructions to Governor Parke for granting lands
in the French part of St. Xtophers. Nov. 30, 1705. q.v.
A return of the same is to be made to the Ld. High Treasurer,
and grants by the Governor are not to be for a longer period than
2| years, etc. St. James, Nov. 30, 1705. Countersigned,
Godolphin. Endorsed, Reed. 19th, Read 20th, 1711. 2% pp.
[C.O. 152, 9. No. 81.]
[Sept. 20.] 106. H.M. Confirmation of Mrs. Elizabeth Bowden's grant
of plantation lands in St. Kitts. Aug. 14, 1707. Countersigned,
Godolphin. 2| pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 82.]
Sept. 22.
Sept. 22.
Whitehall.
Sept. 25.
Whitehall.
Sept. 25.
Whitehall.
107. The Attorney and Solicitor General to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. Reply to Sept. 20. We will attend
yr. Lordps. on Thursday, etc. Signed, Ed. Northey, Rob.
Raymond. Endorsed, Reed. 22nd, Read 25th Sept., 1711.
Addressed. \p. [C.O. 152, V. No.. 83.]
108. Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Mr. Hugh Totterdell of Jamaica being very well re-
commended to H.M. to be one of Her Council in that Island, I
desire to know whether you have any objection, etc. Signed,
Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. Oct. 30th, Read Nov. 1st, 1711.
1 p. [C.O. 137, 9. No. 49 ; and 138, 13. p. 374.]
109. Mr. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. The
Council of Trade and Plantations recommend H.M. confirmation
of the grant of land in St. Kitts to Lt. Governor Lambert, as
proposed by Mr. Blathwayt (v. Aug. 15), " provided there be a
reservation of the usual quit-rents, as their Lordships find it
reserved in a grant of the like nature to Mrs. Bowden, Aug. 14,
1707, but omitted in the above grant from Col. Parke to Col.
Lambert." [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 374, 375.]
110. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Captain Teate, H.M.S. Reserve, having brought five
persons from Virginia, by order of the Lt. Governor, who setts
forth in the warrant he has signed for taking them into custody,
that they had raised a rebellion against the established Govern-
ment of North Carolina, and failing in their attempts, were fled
110 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
from justice ; I am to desire you will be pleased to communicate
to me what accounts you have received of this matter, particularly
in relation to the evidence produced against them. Signed,
Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. Read 26th Sept., 1711. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 1316. No. 68 ; and 5, 1363. pp. 331, 332.]
Sept. 26. 111. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
Whitehall, mouth. In reply to preceding enclose extracts from Lt. Governor
Spotswood's letter etc., July 25th. We have reed, no affidavits
or other proofs, nor is there any mention in his letter to us of any
persons being sent over hither. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 331, 332 ;
and (rough draft} 5, 1335. p. 130.]
Sept. 27. 112. Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. Having received yr. Lordps. commands to
deferr our coming to the Board, (v. Sept. 22), wee will attend on
Thursday, etc. Signed, Edw. Northey, Rob. Raymond. Endorsed,
Reed. Read Sept. 28, 1711. f p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 84.]
[Sept. 28.] 113. Petition of Alexander Skeene, Secretary of Barbados,
to the Queen. Prays to be appointed to the Council, there being
now a vacancy by the death of George Lillington. 1 p.
Overleaf,
113. i. The Council of Trade and Plantations are to report
their opinion on this petition, etc. Signed, Dartmouth.
Whitehall, Sept. 28, 1711. The whole endorsed, Reed.
Sept. 29, Read Oct. 11, 1711. 1 pp. [C.O. 28, 13.
Nos. 64, 64 i. ; and 29, 12. p. 368.]
Sept. 29. 114. Petty Expences of the Board of Trade, postage, station-
ery, etc. 6pp. [C.O. 388, 76. Nos. 122 124.]
Oct. 1. 115. James Blake to Mr. Secretary St. John. Replies to
London. the complaints of several Colonels of regiments now employed
in the expedition under General Hill relating to the cloathing
and accouterments furnished by him. I was not acquainted to
what place the expedition was designed, etc. I was directed to
supply for the militia and H.M. forces, etc. The sergants surtout
coates were made of the best Glocestershire cloaths, and 1396
of the centinells' coates, the rest of the centinells with whole
thick kerseys, which are as dear as cloath, but allowed by every-
body to wear much longer, and is what all the foreigners cloath
withall. As to their not being lined H.M. saved largely thereby
in what was given the militia. The breeches, hatts etc. were as
good or better then is used by the Army. Mr. Nettmaker the
Commissary was very nice in his inspection and returned great
quantity es that did not come up fully to the pattern, though
these were accepted by some of the regiments now upon the
expedition. The complaints began at Portsmouth, altho' none
of the cloathing was seen, and by that means the goods were
tossed from vessell to vessell much to their damage, and several
of them left behind etc. Signed, J. W. Blake. 1| pp. Enclosed,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. Ill
1711.
115. i. Certificate by Richard Hallam, Packer, corroborating
preceding. London, Oct. 1, 1711. Signed, Richd.
Hallam. 1 p. [C.O. 42, 13. Nos. 9, 10, (and dupli-
cates) 10 (i.), 11, 11 i.]
Oct. 3. 116. Presents made to the Chief Sachems of the Five Nations
of the Iroquois Indians by Lt. Gen. Nicholson at the House of
the honble. Col. Peter Schuyler in Albany, Oct. 3, 1711. One
Queen Anne's guinea in memory of H.M. One of ye Oxford
Almanack's with ye cutt made upon their late sending the four
embassadors for England, shewing H.M. tender regard for them.
One kane with an amber head in memory of himselfe and in
token that as ye said head when warme is of an attractive power,
so his and their loves should be warme and attractive to draw
each to other. One multiplying glass to represent to them ye
fraud of the French in making a few things seem to be many.
One pair of pocket brass musquetoons and one long gun to shew
the French how well they are armed. And two barrills of bear
to drink the Queen's health, all wch. they thankfully reed, and
replied, Brother Anndegariax, we thank you and promise to
keep your presents in ye Onondage Castle etc. You have shewn
our belts of wampum formerly given you and desired that as
you have kept them so we keep these things, which we promise
to do, and that you shall see them whenever we have the honour
of your company that way etc. Signed, P. Schuyler. Laurens
Clase, Interpreter. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 68.]
Oct. 5. 117. Mr. Harley to Mr. Popple. Encloses following for the
Treasury opinion of the Council of Trade and Plantations thereon by
3rs> Tuesday morning, Signed, T. Harley. Endorsed, Reed. 6th,
Read llth Oct., 1711. 1 p. Enclosed,
117. i. Petition of London merchants trading to Virginia
and Maryland to Robert, Earl of Oxford, Lord High
Treasurer. Protest against a new order of the Customs
forbidding the passing of any entries of tobacco inwards
until the bonds were discharged, for which the merchants
have always hitherto been allowed a full eighteen months
law, etc. Copy. 2| pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 69, 69
i.; and 5, 1363. pp. 332 339.]
Oct. 11. 118. Mr. Perry to Mr. Popple. Encloses following. The
Trade have agreed to be at Whitehall on fry day morning, the
Queen is at a vast charge and so is the merchants : and time goes
off hand : and the fame of this dispute (v. Oct. 5) runs to Virga.
altogether is a publique evile. Signed, Micajah Perry. En-
dorsed, Reed. 10th, Read llth Oct., 1711. Addressed. Postmark.
| p. Enclosed,
118. i. Mr. Bayley to Mr. Perry. List of Acts laying duties
upon tobacco. Signed, Arthur Bayley. Addressed.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 70, 70 i.; and (without en-
closure] 5, 1363. p. 340.]
112
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Oct. 11.
Whitehal.
Oct. 15.
Virginia.
119. Mr. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. Reply
to Oct. 5. The Council of Trade and Plantations do find by an
Act pass'd II and III Anne, that the time for the exportation of
tobacco etc. is inlarged to 18 months ; but they do not find that
the several times for the payment of the duties are altered ;
however in regard of the low state of the Tobacco trade, and that
the merchants in case they do not export their tobacco in the
time limitted do pay interest from the time the Customs are due,
their Lordships are of opinion that if the merchants are indulg'd,
as they affirm has been used, so far as to have an oppertunity
to clear their bonds by debentures, it will at this time not only
be a great ease to them, but an encouragement to the Virginia
and Maryland trade which, as above limited, is at present in a
low condition, and that the not permitting the merchants who
are already in bonds to H.M. to make entries of their tobacco
upon good and sufficient security till their former bonds be
discharged, may prove a discouragement to that Trade, and in
all probability will produce those ill consequences set forth by
the merchants in their said Memorial, ete. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp.
340342 ; and (rough draft] 5, 1335. pp. 134136.]
120. Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. After what I writt July 28th of the success of my
endeavours in quietting the commotions in North Carolina, I
was in hopes I should not have had occasion to trouble your
Lordships again with the affairs of that unhappy country ; but
a more dismall and unexpected accident happening there lately,
I think it my duty to give your Lordps. the following account of
it, together with my proceedings thereupon. On the 22nd of
the last month some towns of the Tuscaruro Indians and other
Nations bordering on Carolina made an incursion upon the head
of Neuse and Pam[plico] Rivers in that Province, without any
previous declaration of war or show of discontent, and having
divided themselves into partys, at sunrise (which was their
signal) begun a barbarous massacre on the inhabitants of the
frontier plantations, killing without distinction of age or sex
about 60 English and upwards of that number of Swiss and
Palatines, besides a great many left dangerously wounded. The
Baron de Graff enried, Cheif of the Swiss and Palatine settlement
there, is also fallen into their hands, and carryed away prisoner ;
since which [they] have continued their ravages, in burning
those plantations, and others deserted by the inhabitants for
fear of the like crueltys. The Governor, Mr. Hyde, has raised
what men he can to oppose the further invasion of the heathen,
and protect the rest of the country ; but that spirit of disobedience,
to which they have been long accustomed, still prevails so much,
that he can hardly perswade them to unite for their common
safety. I will not affirm that the invitation given those savages,
some time ago by Coll. Gary and his party, to cutt off their
fellow subjects (tho' that heavy charge is proved by divers
testimonys and firmly beleived in Carolina) has been the only
occasion of this tragedy ; yet it appears very reasonable to beleive
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 113
1711.
that the Indians have been greatly encouraged in this attempt,
by the unnatural divisions and animositys among the inhabitants,
and I very much fear their mutinous and cowardly behaviour
in some late skirmishes will embolden the Indians to continue
their insolencies. Upon the first advice of this unhappy event,
I sent out detachments of our Militia to prevent our Tributary
Indians from joining with those savages, and understanding that
the greater part of the Tuscaruros had refused to be concerned
with the rest of their Nation in this bloody execution, I have sent
to them and the other neighbouring Indians to meet me next
week on our frontiers, in order to a treaty. And as they stand in
some awe of this Government, both from the opinion they have
of our strength, and their apprehensions of the loss of our trade
upon a rupture, I hope at this Conference to work so far on their
fears and interests as at least to preserve their friendship, if not
to engage their assistance for the destruction of those Assassines.
There is very little temptation for any man to enter upon an
Indian war, nor much honour to be got by encountering a people
more like wild beasts than men : but if war be the only means
left us to secure H.M. people and territorys from the Heathen,
I don't doubt but our Assembly (which is to meet the 7th of the
next month) will take such resolutions as become them to provide
for the effectual prosecution of it. But whatever air I may give
the matter, to the Indians, I must not conceal from your Lordps.
the incapacity of this country for an offensive or defensive war.
Our Militia are in a manner wholly destitute of ammunition,
and as ill provided with arms that are usefull, and unless H.M.
will be pleased to send in a supply of both to ly ready against an
emergency, I fear I shall not be able to sustain any considerable
attack of an enemy. Upon the apprehensions we had this
summer of the French squadron (which is said to be now in the
West Indies) I made a shift to raise four forts, and run some
lines for the defence of our cheif rivers, and to mount about 70
peices of cannon, not finding at my arrival such a thing as either
parapet, pallisade, or one single peice of ordnance mounted
throughout the whole Government. I endeavour'd to make our
last Assembly sensible of the naked condition of their country,
but the expence appearing to them then, much more immediate
than the danger, they were easily influenced by their low circum-
stances to deferr the consideration thereof, however I prevailed
on them to revive in the meanwhile a former Law made for the
defence of the country in times of danger, and by virtue of that
law I have carryed on the abovementioned works during the late
alarm. Notwithstanding I have been mightily embarassed by
a sett of Quakers, who broach doctrines so monstrous as their
brethren in England have never own'd, nor indeed can be suffer'd
in any Government ; they have not only refused to work them-
selves, or suffer any of their servants to be imployed in the
fortifications ; but affirm that their consciences will not permitt
them to contribute in any manner of way to the defence of the
country, even so much as trusting the Government for provisions
to support those that do work, tho' at the same time they say,
Wt. 26089. C,P. 8.
114 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
that being obliged by their religion to feed their enemy s, if the
French should come hither,' and want provisions they must in
conscience supply them. As this opinion of theirs is quite
different from their practice in Carolina where they were the most
active in taking arms to putt down that Government (tho' they
now fly again to the pretence of conscience to be excused from
assisting against the Indians) I have thought it necessary to
put the laws of this country in execution against that sect of
people, which impower me to imploy all persons as I shall see
fitt, for the defence of the country in times of danger, and imposes
fines and penaltys on their disobedience ; I doubt not they will
sufficiently exclaim against me on this occasion, and perhaps their
brethren in England who keep a Joint Stock (as 'tis said) to
prosecute the quarrells of all that sect, may think fitt to attack
me : but I am perswaded I shall not incurr my Sovereign's dis-
pleasure so long as I act by the rule of law ; and it is absolutely
necessary to discourage such dangerous opinions, as would render
the safety of the Government precarious, since everyone that is
either lazy or cowardly would make use of the pretence of con-
science to excuse himself from working or fighting when there is
greatest need of his service. And I fear the Quakers would find
too many proselytes on such occasions. As soon as I was informed
of this fatal accident in Carolina, I prohibited all trade from this
country with the Indians, finding they were better provided with
ammunition than we ourselves, and had the Government of
Carolina made the same stop when this country had a dispute with
those very Indians, about a murder committed here some years
ago, it is very probable they might have been more cautious of
falling upon any of H.M. plantations, when they found we
espoused one another's quarrells, but the tameness of the Govern-
ment in passing over that affair, and the constant supplys they
received from Carolina of powder shott and other riecessarys,
notwithstanding the representations of this Government, made
them beleive we were under distinct Sovereigns as well as Gover-
nors, and that we would no more assist Carolina than they us.
I have also sent to demand the releasment of the Baron of
Graff enreid, who by our advices was still alive, but supposed only
reserved for a more solemn execution, to be tommahawked and
tortured at their first publick war dances. Upon perusing the
rough drafts of my letters to your Lordships I fear there is
ommitted in the transcribing a recommendation I intended to
make to your Lordships some time agoe of Col. William Fitzhugh
to be added to the Council. He is a gentleman of a plentiful
estate, of good interest in his country, and of principles entirely
loyal so far as I have been able to discover of him. This gentle-
man being added and Col. Bassett restored, according to my
former request, will for the present compleat the number of the
Council, and give me some more time to consider of proper
persons or supplying future vacancys, which I assure your Lordps.
is a matter of some difficulty among the little choice the country
affords. If your Lordps. think fitt to recommend Mr. Fitzhugh
to H.M. there is one Mr. Richard Lee Merchant in London, (who
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 115
1711.
is his brother-in-law) will take out his warrant. Signed, A.
Spotswood. Endorsed, Reed. Read Nov. 29, 1711. 5 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1316. No. 72 ; and 5, 1363. pp. 374381.]
Oct. 15. 121. Same to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. Duplicate of pre-
Virginia. ceding as far as " such occasions." [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 15.]
Oct. 15. 1 22. Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Planta-
Wmdsor Castle, tions. I desire you'l be pleas'd to acquaint me by what power's
and authority's the Admiralty jurisdiction is now exercis'd in
the Plantations, etc. Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. 16th,
Read 23rd Oct., 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 323, 7. No. 15; and 324, 9.
p. 484.]
Oct. 17. 123. Address of the Governour, Council and Assembly of
Boston. the Massachusetts Bay to the Queen. It is with the deepest
sorrow and abasement that we are humbly bold to prostrate
ourselves at your Majesty's Royal feet under the very melancholy
awful reflection upon the late sore disaster and unhappy frustra-
tion of that important Expedition undertaken by your Majesty
at such vast cost and expence for the reduction of Canada etc.,
in the wished for success whereof we hoped by the favour of
Almighty God to have obtained some respit and ease from the
heavy pressures of a long calamitous war under which we are
languishing and have suffered the loss of so much blood and
treasure. We humbly adore the Divine wisdom and soveraignty
in that surprizing Disappointment being supported with the
consideration of having done our duty in giving assistance
thereto to the utmost of our power with a cheerful obedience to
your Majestys Royal commands etc. We should have esteemed
it a very great honour if we might have hapily been instrumental
and serviceable for making Canada a glorious acquisition to your
Majesty's Imperial Crown.. We further humbly address your
Sacred Majesty if in your princely wisdom you shall so think fit,
that a new Expedition may be brought forward for the reduction
of that country to your Majestys obedience withal most humbly
praying your Majesty's most gracious consideration of the
distressing circumstances of your Majesty's good subjects of this
Province so greatly enfeebled and impoverished by the war and
at a constant standing charge for the defence of the inland
frontiers guarding of the sea coast and other incidental charge,
little if anything short of 30,000 pr. annum communibus annis
over and above the extraordinary advances for the preparations
made in the two aforegoing years and for this years Expedition
wherein we employ'd our utmost efforts. And that your Majesty
would be graciously pleased, if it may be, to excuse us from
furnishing a Quota of men for a new Expedition, or at least from
the greatest part of the Quota directed for the former : dureing
which, near one fifth part of your Majesty's subjects of this
Province capable of bearing armes were actually retained in your
Majesty's service and under pay vizt. at the Castle, forts, garrisons
and in cruising on the coast including the souldiers and seamen
116 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
on our part imployed in the Expedition several of which are dead
of sickness and of those of your Majesty's Governmts. of this
Province New Hampshire Connecticut and Rhode Island to the
number of some hundreds left the last year in the garrison of
Annapolis Royal scarce one of five returned home, but dyed there
and near one fifth of the recruites sent thither from hence this
summer are since dead which with other mortalitys and many of
the young men of this Province going abroad by sea few of them
returning home again besides others who to avoid being called
forth to the service or paying of taxes have removed into the
neighbouring Governments, has very much diminished our
numbers etc. Signed, J. Dudley, Isa. Addington, by order of the
Council, John Burril, Speaker. Endorsed, R. 17th Jan. 17J-J-.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 141.]
Oct. 18. 124. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
St. Jago de la an( j Plantations. I herewith send a duplicate of Aug. 29, by the
Salisbury bound for Bristol. The Council and Assembly having
had under their consideration the subject matter of two several
Addresses to H.M., and a Representation to your Lordships, did
apply to me to give order for stopping the said ship and some
others now bound for England, untill these Addresses and Repre-
sentation could be got ready ; which, upon their joint request,
I did accordingly, for the space of 24 hours. And now the said
Addresses and Representation being finish 'd makes me write to
your Lops, much shorter and in greater hurry than otherways
I inclined to have done, lest the merchants concern'd may think
they have any just cause of complaint. That one relating to me
in particular is what I was not in the least solicitous about ; as
being truly beyond my expectation, merit, or desire ; tho' I
could not but give way to what the Council and Assembly thought
fit in that matter. But as to the other relating to bonds for the
duties on prize goods, and the state of these bonds, as set forth in
the said Representation, (all herewith transmitted to your Lops.)
'tis what the people here have very much at heart ; and therefore
I must take the liberty earnestly to recommend the consideration
thereof to your Lops., hoping that you will concurr in promoting
the design thereof, for obtaining relief to the several persons
aggrieved by these Bonds. By the first man of war or packet-
boat, I'll do myself the honour to write to your Lops, fully of all
particulars that may occurr etc. Signed, A. Hamilton. En-
dorsed, Reed. 10th, Read 15th Jan., 17||. l%pp. Enclosed,
124. i. Address of the Governor, Council and Assembly of
Jamaica to the Queen. Oct. 18, 1711. Return thanks
for relief from the duties on the American Act, which
were so insupportable, etc. We beseech your Majesty
to extend your bountiful compassion likewise to many
poor families and a great number of seafareing men
belonging to this your Island, who have been captors
and owners of several prizes long since taken, and who
are become lyable to the payment of those duties upon
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 117
1711.
bonds already entered into, and which if your Majesty
is not graciously pleased to remit to them, must not
only be their inevetable undoing, but will prove a great
discouragement to the settlement of this your Colony.
And in regard that several of the Agents for prizes to
counter-secure themselves against the bonds they had
entered into have kept in their hands out of such prizes
as they were concerned for as much if not more than
what the real duties amounted to which Agents if your
Majesty should be graciously pleased to remit the said
bonds would take the intire benefit to themselves of the
shares of such owners and captors as shall never come to
demand the same, we therefore humbly beg, that such
Agents may be obliged to account in such manner as
your Majesty shall think fitting for what was so deposited
or detained in their hands, which will be a great in-
couragement to several seafaring men to return to
this Island and partake of your Royal favour, and that
the parts and shares of such as shall not return by a
time to be prefixed by your Majesty and your Parliament
may be thereby secured for (and we humbly hope
apply'd to) the support of the Government of this your
Island, which at present in many parts thereof labours
under many great and real wants. Pray for H.M.
preservation etc. Signed, A. Hamilton, Rod. Mackenzie,
Cl. Counll., William Brodrick, Speaker. Copy. Same
endorsement. 3 pp.
124. ii. A state of the case of the bonds for duties on prize
goods (referred to in preceding}. Totals, 12,023 4s. Qd.
Same endorsement. 4 pp. [C.O. 137, 9. Nos. 60, 60 i.,
ii. ; and (without enclosures) 138, 13. pp. 380 382.]
Oct. 18. 125. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Earl of Dartmouth.
St. Jago de la Repeats part of preceding letter. A privateer of this Island having
taken a vessel bound for the Havannah, wherein the President
Governor and Capt. Genii, of the Spanish Coast of St. Domingo
happen'd to be passenger ; I detain him upon account of H.M.
subjects that are kept prisoners at Lima, concerning whom I had
your Lordship's directions. I take this to be a favourable
occasion for reclaiming them ; and in order thereto I have caus'd
him write to the Vice-Roy of Peru, that he is detain'd for them
by way of reprizal, till I am assured that they are set at liberty.
However I think of sending him soon for England at his own
request, etc. Signed, A. Hamilton. 2 pp. Enclosed,
125. i. Address of the Council and Assembly of Jamaica to
the Queen. Return thanks for the appointment of
Lord A. Hamilton as Governor, etc. Oct. 18, 1711.
Signed, Rod. Mackenzie, Cl. of Counll., William Brod-
rick, Speaker. Ip.
125. ii. Duplicate of No. 124 i. [C.O. 137, 51. Nos. 55,
56, 57.]
118
COLONIAL PAPERS.
Oct. '22.
Hampton
Court.
Oct. 23.
Whitehall.
Oct. 23.
Whitehall.
1711.
Oct. 20. 126. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Reply to loth Oct. Refer to correspondence relating to
Admiralty Jurisdiction in the Plantations, 18th Dec., 1701 ff.
(i'. C.S.P. 1701, 1702) and give list of Commissions etc. [C.O.
324, 9. pp. 484-488.]
127. H.M. Warrants appointing Samuell Shirlock, Wni.
Outerbridge, Leonard White, John Peasly and Saml. Smith to
the Council of New York. Countersigned, Dartmouth. [C.O.
324, 32. p. 106.]
128. Mr. Popple to the Secretaries of the Treasury. Encloses
draught of a bond for Mr. Hyde (v. June 14). Annexed,
128. i. Draught of bond referred to in preceding. [C.O.
5, 1292. pp. 323326.]
129. Mr. Popple to Mr. Hulston. Refers to preceding. So
soon as you shall have brought a certificate from H.M. Re-
membrance Office, that security has accordingly been given there,
their Lordships will make their final report. [C.O. 5, 1292.
p. 327.]
[Oct. 23.] 130. (a.) Journal of Committee of Accounts, Maryland.
28pp.
(6.) Journal of Council in Assembly of Maryland, Oct.
23 Nov. 3, 1711. 28^.
(c.) Journal of House of Delegates of Maryland, Oct.
23 Nov. 3, 1711. 82pp. Copies. May 29, 1712.
[C.O. 5, 720. Nos. 1012.]
[Oct. 25.] 131. W. Johnstone, of London, Merchant, to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. Recommends James Ayns worth to be
Councillor of Barbados in the room of G. Lillington, deed., he
having served under the late Governor during the suspension of
the three Councillors, etc. In view of Alexander Skene's petition
(v. Sept. 28), encloses copy of order in Council, Aug. 18, 1708,
dismissing him from the office of Secretary, q.v. Endorsed,
Reed. Oct. 25, Read Nov. 2, 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 67.]
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
132. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Lowther.
Acknowledge letter of June 24. We are glad to hear of your safe
arrival at Barbados, where we hope by your prudent administra-
tion the heats and animosities that have too long continued there,
will be wholly composed, since nothing can conduce more to the
welfare and prosperity of that Island. We doubt not but you
have received advise from the Leeward Islands of the repulse the
French met with when they landed at Montserrat, which in a
great measure as we are informed is owing to the conduct and
bravery of the Commander of H.M.S. the Newcastle, and therefore
we shall not add anything more on that head. Whereas there are
several articles in the Instructions to all the Governors of America
which have not punctually been comply 'd with, and which are
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
119
1711.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
necessary for our information in order to our laying a state of
each respective Government before H.M. from time to time as
the nature of the thing may require, and tho we do not doubt
of your observance thereof, yet we find ourselves obliged to
mention some of the said articles to you, as we do to all the rest
of the Governors, that answers may be returned thereunto
vizt., accounts of public money, patent places, courts, tables of
fees, numbers of inhabitants, arms, ammunition, negroes import-
ed, and wants and defects of your Government. We shall be
glad to hear frequently from you, and to receive an account of
the present state of your Government etc. P.S. An Act having
been passed the last session of Parliament for the encouragement
of the trade to America, we send you the said Act here inclosed,
which you will cause to be published and duly observed in your
Government. [C.O. 29, 12. pp. 369371.]
133. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Hunter.
We have received letters from Mr. Clarke, May 28, 30, 31, and
June 7, and shall return particular answers on the first occasion.
Require answers to clauses in Instructions as No. 132. Enclose
Acts passed last session for the encouragement of trade to America,
and for the preservation of white and other pine-trees. [C.O. 5,
1122. pp. 426, 427.]
134. Council of Trade and Plantations to Edward Lloyd,
President of the Councill of Maryland. Acknowledge letter of
Nov. 4, 1710. Require answers to clauses in Instructions as in
preceding. Conclude : H.M. having referred to us the Address
from you, the Councill and Assembly relating to ye Governor's
keeping of the seal of Maryland, and we having laid the whole
state of that matter before H.M., she has been pleased by her
Order in Council, June 14, 1711, to declare her royal pleasure
therein etc., which Order we send you here enclosed, that you may
cause the same to be published and entred in the Councill books
and punctually complyed with. P.S. Repeat last paragraph
of No. 133. [C.O. 5, 727. pp. 305308.]
135. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Dudley.
Since our letter of Jan. 29, a duplicate whereof has been sent you,
we have received none from you, and only one from Mr. Addington
etc. Require answers to clauses in Instructions as in preceding.
[C.O. 5, 913. pp. 352, 353.]
136. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Lord A.
Hamilton. We have received your Lordship's letter of July 17,
and at present have only to acquaint your Lordship, that we are
glad to hear of your safe arrival, as also of the repulse given the
French at Montserrat, which we understand from Mr. Hamilton,
Lieut. General of the Leeward Islands, was in a great measure
owing to the conduct and bravery of the Commander of H.M.S.
the Newcastle. We hope that Commodore Littleton, whom your
Lordship mentions to be gone in quest of Monsr. Du Casse, will,
120
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Oct. 20.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
if he is so lucky to meet with the Fleet under his convoy, be able
to give a good account of his Expedition. Require replies to
certain Articles in Instructions as in preceding.
We hope that your Lordship will find the new Assembly dis-
posed to do everything that you may recommend to them for
H.M. service and the good of the Island. We shall be glad
to hear frequently from your Lordship, and to receive an
accot. of the present state of your Government, and such other
accounts as are required by your Instructions. P.S. An Act
having been pass'd the last Session of Parliament, for the encour-
agement of the trade to America, we send you the said Act here
inclosed, which you will cause to be published and duly observed
in the Island under your Government. [C.O. 138, 13. pp. 361
363.]
137. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General.
The Council of Trade and Plantations send you the enclosed
clauses of an Act past the last Sessions of Parliament relating to
the issuing of debentures to such of the sufferers of Nevis and
St. Christophers as have resettled or shall resettle their plan-
tations and thereupon desire your opinion upon the following
queries. (1) What is to be deemed a resettlement ? (2) What
will be a sufficient proof of such a resettlement ? (3) Whether
the inhabitants, vizt. merchts., shopkeepers etc., who had no
plantations, and whose losses are inserted in ye returns made by
the Commrs. appointed to state the same, are to be relieved by
the above clause ? [C.O. 153, 11. p. 376.]
138. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Douglas.
We have had from Lt. Genii. Hamilton an account of your safe
arrival, and should have been glad to have received it from
yourself. However we hope to receive shortly from you an
accot. of the present state thereof, and of what you have done
in relation to the late Rebellion at Antegoa. We doubt not but
by your prudent interposition, you will be able to allay the heats
and divisions that have too long disturbed the peace of that
Island, and that the Councill and Assembly as well of Antego,
as the other Islands under your care, will act in concert with you
to H.M. service, and their own good. H.M. having been pleased
by her Order in Council, March 1st, 1711, to repeal an Act of
St. Kitts/or the Treasurer's paying the publick stock, etc., we send
you the said Order here inclosed, which you are to cause to be
published and entred in the Councill books of that Island as
usual. Require answers to several clauses in his Instructions as No.
132. P.S. An Act having been passed the last Session of Parlia-
ment for the encouragement of the trade to America, we send you
the said Act here inclosed, which you will cause to be published
and duly observed in the Leeward Islands under your Govern-
ment. [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 377379.]
Oct. 26. 139. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor
Whitehall. Bennett. Acknowledge letters of Dec. 26, 1710 and June 22,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
121
1711.
Oct. 26.
Secretary's
Office in
Barbados.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
Oct. 26.
Bermuda.
1711. We should have been glad to have received the account of
the fortifications you mention therein. But whereas there are
other clauses in your Instructions that have not been complyed
with, conclude as preceding with request for answers. [C.O. 38, 7.
pp. 2931.]
140. Mr. Skene to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Encloses the last quarter's Minutes in Mr. Lillington's time, etc.
Signed, A. Skene. Endorsed, Reed. Read Dec. 13, 1711. 1 p.
[C.O. 28, 13. No. 77 ; and 29, 12. p. 395.]
1 41 . Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. In reply to your Lordship's letter of 15th instant,
desiring to know by what power and authorities the Admiralty
Jurisdiction is exercised in the Plantations, quote Order of Council
Dec. 18, 1701, and replies from Governors to circular letter
written to them. (v. C.S.P. 1701. No. 1094, 1702, Nos. 197,
504, 570, 743, 1005, etc.). We have likewise examined the copy
of the Commn. for Vice- Admiral given to the late Sir Bevil
Granville under the Seal of the Admiralty (and we are inform'd
that Commns. to the like purpose are given to all H.M. Governors
in America) whereby he was impowered to appoint a Deputy or
Deputies for determining all maritime affairs, as also all other fit
and necessary officers under him, for the execution of his office
of Vice-Admiral. And as the returns from Jamaica and the
Leeward Islands mention a clause in the Governor's Commn.
under the Great Seal of this Kingdom, impowering them to
constitute Courts, we inclose a copy of that clause in the Lord A.
Hamilton's Commn., which is the same to all the other Governors
in America. Autograph signatures. 5 pp. Enclosed,
141. i. Copy of Clause in Governor Lord A. Hamilton's Commn.,
impowering him to constitute Courts etc. [G.O. 137,
46. Nos. 1, 1 L]
142. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor
Spotswood. Acknowledge letter of July 25, etc. Request replies
to Instructions and enclose Acts as No. 133. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp.
342345 ; and (rough draft) 5, 1335. pp. 138140.]
143. Lt. Governor Bennett to [? Lord Dartmouth]. Refers
to letter etc. of June 22. The three soldiers I reprieved att the
gallows were soe penitent, that the Council made applycation
they might be pardoned, as did the Assembly by an Address,
soe that I found none were apprehensive of any second attempt,
or that the Island was in any dainger by them : I therefore
pursuant (as I conceived) to H.M. most gratious goodness and
intention of mercy pardoned them, and are now soldiers again
in the Company : I hope I have not varied anything from the
dictates of your Lordps.' letter, etc. This country in generall is
afflicted with the measles, but does not prove mortall altho'
infectious, none escapeing in a ffamily it seized that has not had
them. Repeats part of June 22. This coast has been lately
122 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
infested by a French privateer of 10 guns and 120 men, and has
taken severall vessells : whereupon I fitted out two sloops, and
sent them to cruse round the Island att a convenient distance,
which they accordingly did for five days, but the privateer was
gone : I wish more in company doe not visit us, and that the
want (in case they should land) of an augmentation to H.M.
independt. Company of Foot (mentioned in mine of June 22nd)
be of noe inconveniency. As for my part I shall doe all that's
possible for me to demonstrate faithfull discharge of my duty,
and the trust reposed in me, etc. Signed, Ben. Bennett. Holo-
graph. 4 p2). [C.O. 37, 28. Nos. 8 ; and, (duplicate) 9.]
Oct. 27. 144. Governor Lowther to Mr. Popple. Encloses duplicates
Barbados, of Minutes and Acts sent Aug. 20 etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther.
Endorsed, Reed. Read Dec. 13, 1711. Holograph, f p. [C.O.
28, 13. No. 76 ; and 29, 12. p. 394.]
Oct. 27. 1 45. Dudley Woodbridge, Judge of H.M. Court of Admiralty,
Barbados. Barbados, to the Earl of Dartmouth. When I did myself the honour
of addressing your Lordship on the 24th instant, I was under noe
apprehention I should have this occation of laying before your
Lordship an account of an appeal from my judgement here to
H.M. in Privy Council, which I granted in pursuance to the Act
for the encouragement of the trade to America. But soe it is, may
it please your Lordship, Capt. Thomas Legge and Capt. Robert
Chad wick, Commanders of H.M.S. Anglesea and Joy having
taken ye shipp Camwood Merchant from the subjects of the French
King on the coast of Affrica brought her into this port and
libell'd her in the Admiralty here. Messrs. Bate and Stewart
Agents to the Royal Affrican Company put in a claim to the
said ship in behalf of the Company, on hearing ye arguments of
ye Council on both sides, and inasmuch as it plainly appeared to
me that the shipp was in ye possession of the subjects of the
French King at the time of her caption, had been soe for the
proceeding 28 days, had been carryed in and anchored in several
ports, or rivers on the coa(s)t of Affrica, where the French usually
trade, and there unloded her English cargo, and was reladed by
the subjects and with the effects of the subjects of the French
King, and bound with the same on voyage to Martineco, an
island (belonging to the French Kong) in America, but was by
such caption of the Anglesea and Joy prevented and compel'd
into this island, it was my opinion and I did accordingly sentence
the said shipp to be lawfull prize to the said Legge and Chadwick
and their ships' companys etc., which reasons etc. I humbly begg
leave to lay before H.M. in Privy Council, thro' the hands of
your Lordship. Capt. Legg and Capt. Chadwick having sail'd
from this place for Jamaica on the 23rd instant are noe ways
apprais'd of this appeal, nor being under any expectation of the
same, did take care to leave attorneys or fee Council to state and
transmit the case and proceedings thereof. For the petition for
said appeal, the order thereon, and ye security given was not
till the 25th and 26th instant, which were the last days within
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 123
1711.
the limitation of the Act of Parliament for granting the same.
I humbly hope and natter myself your Lordship's goodness will
pardon the plainness and freedom of this address, when I tell
your Lordship I am wholy unfit and unaccustomed to applications
of this nature, this being the only appeal from any judgement of
mine, and the first that ever was from this Island on the aforesaid
Act, etc. Signed, Dudley Woodbridge. 4 pp. Enclosed,
145. i. (a) Raynes Bate and Thomas Stewart to Dudley
Woodbridge. Petition for leave to appeal against
judgment in the case of the Camwood Merchant, on the
grounds that she belonged to the Royal African Company
before being taken by the French, and was not carried
into any French port etc., before being recaptured.
The Company therefore claim restitution of the ship on
payment of salvage etc. Oct. 24, 1711.
(b) Leave to appeal granted, provided security be given
Oct. 25, 1711. Signed, Dudley Woodbridge.
(c) Security of 1000 given as above Oct. 26, 1711, by
Raynes Bate and Thomas Stewart. Copy. 2 pp.
[0.0. 28, 43. Nos. 66, 66 i.]
[Oct. 28.] 146. Copy of Order in Council, Feb. 27, 1709, (v. C.S.P. 1708,
9, No. 482) restoring Alexander Skeen to the office of Secretary
of Barbados, etc. (v. Oct. 25, Nov. 15 etc.) Endorsed, Reed. Oct.
28, Read Nov. 15, 1711. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 68 ; and 29, 12. pp.
374, 375.]
Oct. 30. 1 47. Address of the Governour, Council and Representatives
Portsmouth in of New Hampshire to the Queen. Return thanks for H.M. favour
H m^h' m * ne ^ a * e Expedition etc. But whereas the Divine Soveraigntye
was pleased to disappoint that noble design to which wee yeilded
a chearful obedience to your Majesties Royal commands, would
humbly crave that notwithstanding the disappointment your
Majestie would gratiously accept of our sincere design and en-
deavours therein. Att same time most humbly pray, if in your
princely wisdom you see meet, that your Majestie would gratiously
please to renew the Expedition in the Spring for the reduceing of
that Countrey unto your Majesties obedience. And whereas
one halfe of our men, are imployed against the daily insults of
a barbarous enemy, which renders us very poor and feeble ;
And considering that at least one third of our young men yearly
goe abroad, very few of whom return e again ; Wee humbly begg
your Majesties most gratious favour respecting our Quota of men,
under our present distressing circumstances, and humbly pros-
trate ourselves at your Royal feet, etc. Signed, By Order of the
Council, Cha. Story, Secretary. By order of the Representatives,
Richard Gerrish, Speaker. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 6.]
Oct. 30. 148. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Report upon the petition of George Lyddel and Robert
Clayton of St. Kitts (v. Aug. 22). Petitioners having been at
great expense in improving the sd. plantations, and sustained
considerable losses by the late invasion and dreadfull hurricane ;
124 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
and as such improvements are an addition to H.M. Revenue, we
see no objection why H.M. may not renew the said grant for
2| years (according to H.M. order of Nov. 13, 1705) to commence
from expiration of Col. Parke's grant, provided there be a reser-
vation of the usual quit-rent, as in Mrs. Bowden's grant of Aug.
14, 1707. [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 388, 389.]
Oct. 31. 149. Commodore Crowe to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Warspight, tations. Encloses following replies to Heads of Enquiry April 17.
Ne^oundland ^ evera U abuses that had been committed I have regulated, and
some others which are esteem'd as abuses, cannot be otherways
order'd, but perticularly about the rynding of trees, which cannot
be avoided except the fishing ships and inhabitants doe cover
their stages and houses with board, and as to New England
vesseUs etc. supplying the people with provisions which is allso
esteem'd an abuse, I cannot see my way to avoid unless they were
supply'd with greater quantitys from Great Brittain, the people
are pretty numerous, and would want in the winter season both
bread and flower if not supply'd from New England etc. The
Fort in this place considering the late destruction is in very
good posture of defence against any attempt of the enemy from
these parts, for Mr. John Collins, the deputed Governor in absence
of H.M. ships has by his industery and som charge repaired a great
part of the damages, and somthing that is still wanting is now in
hand a repairing, soe that by the methods I have taken by
forming the inhabitants into bodys in severall places proper for
defence, and divideing those bodys into companies with proper
officers, I hope in god the inhabitants will be capable of defending
themselves and effects this winter, but what is wanting is 200
reguler troops, 150 for this place and 50 for Ferryland, all under
a Governor resideing here, who should have full power to deter-
mine causes between man and man, and by whoes determination
(with consent of some of the principall people) they should stand,
but the Officer soe sent must be an impartiall man prefering the
publique before his own private interest, and who will not doe
unjustice for gaine, it is such a man that must prevent irregularity s
and abuses in this place, and continue to keep the people under
good orders, for they are natureally inclined to be ledd by the
person who has power to drive them. The reasons I propose
for 150 men for this place and but 50 for Ferryland is the con-
veniencies of the Fort and harbour, which is very commodious
for 200 or 250 saile of ships, it being the metropolis of this Island
and lying just in the center of trade and most resorted too ; soe
that whatever occasion may be for assistance to any part it is
sooner sent hence than from any other place. Ferryland and its
adjacent places being the Sothermost part of our Fishery, the
Fort and harbour small, which won't containe above 50 sail,
altho' a place very fitt and commodious for a small fort and fewer
forces will defend it, yet St. Johns exceeds it abundantly, by the
conveniencies of the people's building under command of the
cannon, whoes number is now within the fort, and mounted,
including 4 that I have order'd on shore, 14 with ammunition,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 125
1711.
I hope sufficient for this winter. If the troops abovementioned
were sent thither early in the spring to arrive here in the begining
of Aprill next, and three men of warr of 50 and 40 guns to cruize
off Placentia would intercept all their provisions and soon starve
that place, the reduceing of which as it is the shurest soe it is the
easiest and cheapest way to fortifie and make this Island flourish,
etc. Signed, Jos. Crowe. Endorsed, Reed. Nov. 28th, Read
Dec. 4th and 14th, 1711. 2| pp. Enclosed,
149. i. List of bodies of inhabitants drawn from several places
Total : 1925 men. f p.
149. ii. Commodore Crowe's Replies to Heads of Enquiry
(v. April 17). Articles 1, 3, 20, 21. Number of English
planters, men, women, children and servants, amounts
to 2281 ; the greatest part being fishermen or boate-
keepers in the summer season, are wholy imployed in
catching and curing fish, or in making train, the former
of which they vend to the sack ships coming for that
purpose, or to merchants and factors residing among
them, of which they have some, both from Great
Britain, Ireland and New England, the latter to British
ships only. In the winter, the planters both to the
northward and southward of St. Johns hunt for deer,
beaver, otter, bear, martin, fox and scales, on whose
flesh they feed for the greatest part of that season and
of their furrs drive some small trade with the ships at
their return into the country, but at St. John's the
inhabitants have little or no benefit of this ; these
beasts generally retiring to the woods frightned by
the greater number of people that resorts there more
than to other places ; besides the danger they are
expos'd too by the neighbourhood of the French at
Placentia makes that much neglected, as it does many
other improvements the country is capable off, as build-
ing, breeding of cattle, planting many Europian grains,
fruits, plants etc., necessary for their more comfortable
subsistence. Their provisions they have in part from
Great Brittain and Ireland, the remainder from New
England, New York, Pensylvania, and Carolina which
is brought in their tradeing sloops in good quantitys ;
particularly flower, briskett, pork, some sheep and black
cattle, without which the Planters would starve, plant-
ing nothing themselves for the reasons before mentioned,
and a sufficient quantity not being brought from great
Brittain ; their salt they have from Portugal!, the
Azores and Canary Islands with some French salt
taken in prizes, but I do not finde that they have any
supply of cloath, neets, tackle, or fishing necessarys,
but from Great Brittain, excepting what is brought in
prizes. Article 4. I do not find that they make any
waste of the woods by setting fire too or burning them
any otherways than for their necessary occasions, but
they continue to rynde the trees as without which they
126 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
cannot (as they pretend) carry on their fishing trade,
and much waste is made of the woods so rynded, for
being at a greater distance than smaller woods which is
of easier carriage and more usefull for building their
stages, flakes etc., it is left in the woods till the weather
and length of time decays it ; for which there is no
remedy, unless they are oblidged to cover their stages
and fishing houses with board. Articles 5 and 0.
Great complaint was made of many and great incroach-
ments and daily makeing upon beaches, stages and ships
roomes, where the planters and by-boate keepers build
dwelling-houses, storehouses and stages, and exacted
exorbitant rates from such ships as had occasion for
them to their prejudice, and the discouragement of
the fishing-trade, all which I ordred to be dispossesed
according to the intent of the Act of Parliament, and
they are accordingly dispossesed. Article 7. The by-
boate keepers and fishing ships have generally more
fresh men then their proportion to their respective
companys of seamen, but very few have certificates
thereof? from great Brittain, and I finde the inhabitants
doe allso imploy a proportinable number of green men,
as the Act directs. Articles 8 and 9 are wholy comply'd
with. (10) I doe not finde that the fishing ships or
others when they are ready to saile or at other times do
destroy or deface or doe any detrement to the stages
or cookroomes etc., or to the materialls thereto belong-
ing, but I finde most of the fishing ships and by-boate
keepers when their fish is cured remove their fleaks and
put them into houses with severall other things which
can be moved in order (as they say) for their preservation,
and so to be imploy'd on the same roome by them that
take it the next year, and I finde all fishing ships and
by-boate keepers do content themselves with what is
necessary for their own use, and do repair the defects
of stages etc. by timber etc. fetched out of the woods,
and I have been informed that the planters in the
winter's season does deface and destroy the stages etc.
belonging to the fishing ships for the repairing their
own, but nothing prov'd against particular persons.
Article 11 is wholy comply'd with. (12) I do not finde
the Admiralls of harbours take that care as they should
aboute the rules and orders in regulateing the fishery,
for they don't keep jornals and accounts, or the number
of all ships, boates, stages, etc., nor of the seamen in
each harbour, as the Act directs, for I have demanded
them here from Capt. Hay den Admirall, and Capt.
Dorrell Vice-Admirall of Carbinear and could not have
them, therefore what jornall they deliver in Great
Brittain I know not, for off ten people yt. were never in
the country before are Admills., therefore it would be
very necessary yt. none who has not used ye trade five
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 127
1711.
years at least should have that previlidge. (Article 13).
I doe not finde by the complaints made to me that the
Admirall of this harbour gave himselfe much concern
for the determination of any differances among the
Planters or others, but they wholy depended on me,
coming with their greivances and complaints farr and
near for me to determine, and I finde they do the like
in other harbours where any man of warr is, and depend
little on the Admiralls, who have so much business of
their own that they cannot finde time to do justice for
others. Articles 14 and 19 are wholy comply'd with.
(1;1) Before my arriveall the Lords Day was nothing at
all reguarded neither by the inhabitants or comon
saylers, who spent it generally in the houses of entertain-
ment in drinking, swareing and the most disorderly
actions, liveing without any sense of religion ; and pro-
faneing the day to that degree that a stranger could
never beleive they had heard of Christianity nor indeed
of god 'except by the oathes, curses, blasphemous
expressions and horried imprecations ; at my first
meeting with the commanders of ships and the Planters
of St. Johns, I represented this to them and proposed
that they should by vollunterry contribution repair
their Church and do something for the maintainance of
the Minester sent by the bishop of London, who arrived
at the same time with me ; when the Church was re-
paired, and upon my publishing by beat of drum and
affixing to the most publique places the laws established
in England against immorality and profaneness, and
punishing those that were found guilty accordingly,
their swareing and riateouse liveing was in a great
measure left off, and the Church upon that day generally
frequented ; had they a man amongst them impowered
to put the laws in execution, who would do it impartially
and prefer the publique before his own private interest,
religion would soon be effectually established, the people
would becom orderly, and deal fairly ; and this Island
by its trade add very much to H.M. Revinue, and the
riches of the Nation ; to this purpose till other provision
is made, I have given the Governor I deputed Instruc-
tions annexed to his Commission, and hope it will have
success accordingly. (16) There is no resort of any
strangers to fish or trade in any part of the Island,
except the French who fish and hunt both to the north-
ward and southward of our plantations, and some few
Spanyards, who come with passes to buy fish. (17 and
19) Due care is taken by those that catch fish for the
well salting and cureing the same, and preparing it fitt
for markitt, which if they neglected to do, it is of such
a nature that it would be quite spoyled before ship'd,
for at any time that they are overtaken with raine
while the fish is green on the flakes, or if by the neglect
128 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
of a salter the fish be over or under salted, it becoms
damnified and called refuge fish, and tho' as good
for present spending as the best, yet will sell but for
halfe price on the spott, and ship'd off for the West
Indias. (22) At present neither wine, brandy nor rum is
brought hither from New England, there being sufficient
quantitys brought from the Azores and the West
Indias, and som quantity taken in prizes, by which some
of the fishery grow debauched and run in debt ; and
great part of the year's wages is gon before it be well
earned, to the great hinderance of their business, and
then they hire themselves to the Planters for another
year, but since my arriveall here, I have supress'd in
som measure by threats, punishments, and other
necessary means both to the vender arid criminall.
(23 and 24) Som small quantitys of wine and oyle are
brought here from Lisbon, Liverhorn or other places
in the Mediteranion by most ships that come thence,
and is expended among the fishermen and inhabitants,
and I don't finde any trade driven by selling the same
to New England or other Plantations, excepting som
masters of small vessells buys a hogs head or two of
prize wine for their own use. (25) I don't finde that
any Plantation commodities excepting sugar, mollasses,
rum and tobacco are exported hither, and no more of
those then what is used by the seamen, planters, and
fishermen of this country, and none to be shipp'd off
for any part of Europe. (26) v. infra. The price this
year is 15s. per quintoll, fish being scarce, but other
years when more plenty, it is sold for eleven shillings,
but I dont' know how it can be sold in great Brittain.
(27) v. infra. They feed their men in the summer
season mostly with fresh codds, with som salt pork and
a little beefe and biskett, they catch all their codd with
hooks and line, but som of their baites with netts, and
other with hookes, by bobbing ; they are at about 150
charges for wages, victualls and craft for each boat, and
have catched not above 200 quintolls per boat and som
a great deale less by reason of the scarsness of fish
this year, (28, 29) which has rais'd the price to 155. per
quintoll, and yet I beleive som of them will be loosers
this year, for other years they catch from 350 to 400
quintolls per boate, and their fish is worth 11s. per
quintoll. Train oyle is worth 16 per tunn, which is
most part or all carry'd to great Britton, but the fish
is sent to Portugall, Spaine and Ittialy. (29) v. infra.
(30) I don't finde any masters of ships encourage their
men to stay behinde, but most that does stay seek it
themselves by hireing themselves to planters for another
year ; others run away from ships and stay in the woods
to meet opportunity to gett for New England, which I
have in great measure prevented, since I came into the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 129
1711.
country, but others gett on board the privateers, there-
fore cannot learn what number is left behinde yearly,
but finde as som does stay, others as their affairs call
them goe hence to great Brittain, and I finde the best
methods for preventing there staying here, is the dilli-
gence of the officers guarding the severall harbours, to
prevent their goeing for New England. (31, 32). By
the best information I can gett here, there is not above
600 French inhabitants att Placentia and the places
adjacent, but they have now with two company s,
brought lately over, five companys of soldiers ; and but
small encouragement given to settle, or plant anywhere,
for som times they send great ships a fishing in harbours
to the northward of us as farr as 50 and 51 degrees of
Lattitude, and as soone as their voyage is made, they
all retire and leave the place, but there has been orders
given this year, that no ships shall fish there ; they
have no fort or places of strength but Placentia, where
in the Fort on the Hill are 16 gunns, 6 iron and 10 brass,
which were carryed from St. Johns, that fort is square,
haveing only four guns in front in two teere ; in a small
bay under this Castle are planted 12 guns with a brest
work on the East side of the bay ; 2 miles from the Fort
are 4 gunns in the west side of the harbour ; the grand
Fort of 40 guns, 20 of which are at the goeing in of the
harbour, 10 fronting the bay and 2 to the land. They
have a small trade from Quebeck for furrs and flower,
but most of their provisions comes from France, and
if 3 men of warr of 50 and 40 gunns were here early in
the spring, and to cruize off that place by the midle
of Aprill, it would intercept their provisions and soone
starve that place, the reduceing of which, as it is the
surest, so it is the easiest and cheapest way to fortifie
and make this Island flourish. 7 pp.
149. iii. Scheme of the Fishery of Newfoundland. Number of
fishing ships, 62 ; sack ships, 55 ; ships from America,
10 ; 6880 tuns burthen, and 3137 men. Number of
fishing ships boates, 168 ; by boates, 93 ; inhabitants'
boates, 346 ; by boat masters 76 ; men 558. Quintals
of fish made by fishing ships, 33988, by by-boats 13950,
inhabitants boats, 72608 ;=120546 quintals. Quintals
carried to market, 118900. Quantity of train made by
fishing ships, 234 ; by boates, 85 ; inhabitants, 410 ;=
729 tunns. Number of stages, 123. Number of in-
habitants, men, 1925, women, 190 and children 278=
2393. Signed, Jas. Crowe. Warspight. St. Johns,
Newfoundland. Oct. 31, 1711. 1 p.
149. iv. (a) By Capt. Jos. Crow, C. in C. of H.M. ships, forts,
and garrisons in Newfoundland. A record of severall
laws and orders made at St. Johns for the better disipline
and good order of the people and correcting irregulari-
teys by them committed contrary to good laws and
Wt. 26089. C.P. 9.
130 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
acts of Parliament, all which is debated at severall
Courts held wherein was present the Commanders of
mercht. .ships, merchts. and cheif inhabitants and
wittnesses being examined, it was brought to the follow-
ing conclusion, Aug. 23 Oct. 23, 1711. (1) That a
sume of mony should be collected by a voluntary gift
from the commanders of ships, merchants, masters of
famillies and others tradeing to St. Johns and those
resideing there for this winter season for repairing and
refitting the Church which was demollisht in order for
the due worship of Allmighty god therein, and the
remainer for the Minister's subsistance. (2) That
orders be put up att publick houses and other con-
venient places for the suppressing drunkeness cursing
and swearing, and other irregularties with fines and
punishment according to annexed copy. (3) That a
body of seamen or others should keep guard in the night
and patroull along the backsides of the harbour of St.
Johns to prevent the mischeiffs frequently committed
by the spyes of the enimiey and others upon the in-
habitants, to be raised from the complements of the
ship in ye harbour one man for every 15 and by one man
for every three boats of the inhabitants and by boat-
keepers, a commander of a ship and a mercht. to com-
mand them each night. (4) That the tenements,
store-houses and stages, etc., now in posestion of persons
mentioned, being proved formerly belonging to fishing
ships and engros'd since 1685 contrary to Actt of
Parliament to the prejudice of the said ships etc. ; I do
therefore hearby disposses them of the same in right
of the fishing ships for the next season. (5) That the
inhabitants, fishermen, and servants of the severall
places in Newfoundland are to repair to their winter
quarters allotted them (enumerated) by Oct. 1st and
be under command of their severall Governers for the
better security of themselves and effectts against the
assaults of the enimiey. (6) That the houses in Fort
William of St. Johns is not to be sould or lett for hire
but in case ye person that builltt or otherwise purchased
the same for time past does not inhabitt therein them-
selves the said houses are att the disposall of Governor
Collins to put therein such persons that are destitute of
habitation in the said fortt. (7) That the owners of
such houses which shall themselves inhabit therein, and
have not a proportion of people to the said house, it is
at the discretion of the Governer Collins to put to
cohabitt with them such a number of people as he shall
see convenient. (8) That in case there may not be
sufficientt ground in the said fortt to builld habitations
for the number of inhabitants that are to reside there for
this winter season is to be left to the discreetion of
Governor Collins to give leave for the buillding such
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 131
1711.
habitations as will be proper for them under the gunns
without the work of the fortt. (9) That servants
in this country frequently hier themselves to one or
two or three masters at one time not only to their
disappointment butt much to their prejudices and
hinderance thereof for the preventing such irregularities
for the future, I doe hearby impower the Governor
over such persons so offending to oblidge them to pay
for every such offence 2 10. for the publique good or
otherways cause them to [be] whipt three times forward
and backward along some publique place. (10) That
five men for each ship in the harbour shall goe into the
woods and cutt 20 stockadoes and pallasades to repair
the works of the Fortt of St. Johns, and the boat-
keepers for every boat they keep in the season use to
fetch as maney. (11) That the plantation wherein
John Drue of St. Johns has posestion being proved to
be ship's room yet in regard to his age and thereby
past labour, he has free liberty to enjoy the same
dureing life, butt after his decease to return to ye right
of the ships. (12) That Mr. Furss is confirmed at a
second application to loose the upper stage adjoyning
to his own two boats room that he now houlds in behalf
of Mrs. Anne Earll. (13) That whosoever at any
time shall demolish, deface or brake downe any stage,
cooke-room, house or flakes, by removeing any raffters,
rinds, floreing, shores, stakes or layers, any other way
than with a designe to imploy them on the same room
the next year, shall forfeit 10 for repairing the same to
the posseser of the said stage and roome. (14) The
house in possion of Capt. Arthor Holdsworth, that
formerly belonged to Mr. Juitt, I have confirmed to
Capt. Holdsworth, this right being assigned to him by
Mr. Richard Colesworthy. (15) That the minister
have for his subsistance a subscription for the insuing
year from the shollups three, the two men boats two,
and the skiff one quintoll of dry merchandable fish,
to be leavied one from the owner of the stage, one from
the boat-keeper, and one from the servants. (16)
That a plantation of three boats rooms in possesion of
Abraham Barrott and Richard Lutton in Torbay being
ships' rooms, they are disposses'd thereof in right of the
ships that have occasion for them the next year. Signed,
Jos. Crowe.
(b) Proclamation by Commodore Crowe, Warspight, St.
John's harbour, Aug. 28, 1711. I doe hearby strictly
forbid any tavern or publick house to entertaine any
seamen or others upon the Sabbath day except strangers
come from other harbours in boats with effectts, to whom
as well as to others you are not to sell any strong liquers
whereby they may be debauched by drunkeness to the
dishonour of Allmighty god, neither are you at any time
132 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
to suffer any company to keep disorderly hours in the
night, or to lett them have so much liquers as may
make them drunk upon the penalty or forfeiture of
40s., and for the second double that summe with the
loss of the licence, and each person so taken in any
house disorderly shall forfeitt one shilling, or otherwise
be punished according to my direction and the niony so
forfeitted shall be put for repaireing the Church, and
if any person above the rank of a common seaman be
convicted of swearing or curseing shall pay for such an
offence 2s., and a common seaman or servant Is., or to
receive such punishment as I shall think fitt, and the
mony so collected shall be for the use above-mentioned.
The whole, 5 pp.
149. v. Since the writeing the foregoing, I have mett one
Martin Kellogg who lives at Dearfield in New England,
and was taken twice by the Canada Indians, the first
time after liveing with them 15 months made his escape,
the second time of his being taken is three years the
14th 7ber. last, and has been in Canada ever since,
liveing 9 months near Mount Royall, and six with the
Indians, and three with a French preist before he was
discovered to be a man taken before, but then remov'd
to Quebeck, where he continued 2 years and 3 months,
and after that when they heard of the English Fleet
coming they sent him away prisoner to Placentia, but
was taken by the way by the Ambuscade privateer.
He sayeth Quebeck is the principal place, and about
half a mile square with pallasadoes and mudd walls
hove up against them, haveing near 100 guns, but don't
exceed 5 or 600 men in it fit to carry arms. Mount
Royall is the second place and more then halfe as big
as Quebeck pallasaded round, but not mudd walls, has
in it about 200 familys and about 350 men includeing
soldiers fitt to bear arms, and is about 60 leagues S.W.
from Quebeck. Three Rivers is the third place which is
about 30 leagues from Quebeck all by the river side,
and in it not above 50 houses with severall small Indian
Forts, along the river side, wherein is an officer and
guards, the river lies nearest S.W. and N.E., and in-
habited by French and Indians on both sides the river
and may be near 6 or 7000 French in all Canada besides
Indians whom they don't suffer to live in their towns,
only in small places distance from them and can gett
in 15 or 20 day's warning near 2000 Indians to their
assistance. The country is very fruitfull for grain and
produceth very large horses and sheep with a great
many other cattle, and sends abundance of furrs to
France ; but that all their cloathing, stores, necessarys
and liquors etc. come from thence. Signed, Jos. Crowe,
f p. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 8, 8 i.-v. ; and 195, 5. pp.
234263 ; and 194, 24. Nos. 2, 2 i.-v.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
133
1711.
[Oct. 31.]
Boston.
Nov. 2.
Whitehall.
Nov. 2.
Whitehall.
Nov. 5.
St. Johns.
Nov. 6.
Tidworth.
150. Abstract of Journal of proceedings of the Governour,
Council and Assembly of the Massachusetts Bay for assisting the
Expedition for the reduction of Canada and Newfoundland,
June 8 24th, 1711. With a note as to the steps taken to provide
supplies, and General Nicholson's uncommon zeal and indefatig-
able pains for the preparations for the Expedition etc. 12 pp.
[C.O. 5, 10. No. 142.]
151. Win. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. Encloses, for
his opinion thereon, two Acts of Barbados, (a) 1709, to render
more effectual certain legacies bequeathed by Capt. Williams, and
(b) 1710, to dock the intail of certain lands in the Parish of St.
Philip etc., and to vest the same in Benjamin Chapman, planter,
in fee simple. [C.O. 29, 12. pp. 372, 373.]
152. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Reply to letter of Sept. 22, (which was brought to us but
three days ago), we do not find that there is at present any
vacancy in the Council of Jamaica ; when we are advised of any
such, we shall humbly lay before H.M. the name of such person
as shall appear well qualrfy'd for that trust. [C-.O. 138, 13. p.
374 ; and (autograph signatures) 137, 46. No. 2.]
1 53. Lt. Governor Collin to the Board of Ordnance. Encloses
copy of letter June 18. I am still apointed to command H.M.
Fort etc. In what lays in my power with the inhabitants shall
contribute all I can for the sarvis. I hope there may be forcees
cum over for the garrison itt being veary harde on the inhabitants
etc. Signed, John Collin. Endorsed, Reed. Dec. 1st, 1711. 1 p.
Enclosed,
153. i. Bill of Exchange for 132 10 drawn by John Collin
on the Board of Ordnance. Nov. 5, 1711. Copy. \ p.
153. ii. Account of disbursement of provisions and munitions,
Fort William, St. Johns, 17101711. Signed, John
Collin. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 24. Nos. 4, 4 i., ii.]
154. H. Boyle to the Earl of Dartmouth. Encloses following.
Signed, H. Boyle. 1 p. Enclosed,
154. i. Governor Douglas to the Duke of Queensberry.
Antigua, Aug. 27, 1711. Duplicate of letter of that
date, q.v. Enclosed,
154. ii. Deposition of John Lindsay, taken before Isaac Royall
and Herbert Pember, Justices of the Peace, Antigua,
Aug. 23, 1711. Deponent was clerk to Lt. General
Hamilton, who used to express himself with a great deal
of venom and hatred against Genl. Parke, promising to
provide for deponent when he succeeded his great enemy,
Genl. Parke, in the Government etc. He often said
he admired that the people of Antigua would suffer
him to tyrannize over them. In his letters to his
friends abroad, he termed him the Grand Monster,
tyranniseing and tryumphing in Antigua, but that it
134 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
could not hold long so, and that Genl. Parke was so
puffed up since the Ministry in England was changed,
that it was impossible for the inhabitants to endure him
any longer, and that he expected by the next oportunity
to hear that he was run or privately gon off said Island,
or that a worse thing would befall him, and generally
ended his discourses with his expectation of haveing
the Government. When informed that Mr. Ayon and
Lt. Worthington and some others who were General
Parke's friends and assisted him when the assault was
made, were not murthered, he expressed himself e that
he was glad they were preserved for the gallows, which
they should certainly have if it lay in his power. He
carryed deponent with him to St. Kitts and Mountserat
before he went up to Antigua, at which Islands he
encouraged and carressed all such persons whome he
knew or declared themselves to be enemys to General
Parke, whose friends were used with a great deal of
indifferency and scorn by him, and few of them had any
admittance to his person, or were used with common
civility. Upon his arrivall at Antigua, he had many
private meetings with the enemys of General Parke,
where what private papers and letters that came to his
hands that belonged to General Parke and that were
taken out of the house where he was murthered, were
exposed and handed about. Observing that deponent
kept company with some of the Loyall party, the Lt.
General often expressed himselfe to deponent his
dislike thereof, by which means the enemys of General
Parke became jealous of deponent, who was frequently
reproved by the Lt. General for the same, soe that he
was not employed in his private affairs, but one Thomas
Kerby, Secretary of Antigua, a prime actor in the
murther, and his Clerke wholy did the same, etc. De-
ponent being one day with the Lieut. Generall at the
house of Dr. Daniell Mackinen, a principall actor in the
murther, and where the Lt. General constantly resided,
a certain common fellow came in and complained to him
that his neighbour had called him one of the murthering
doggs. The Lt. Generall in a passion directed him
(tho' it was knowne he was one of the murtherers, and
that he plundered severall goods out of the Generall's
house) to prosecute the other, and that if he would come
to him when he was in towne, he would do him justice.
After this deponent being with the Lt. General at Nevis,
and in a publick house expressing himselfe at the
barbarity used to General Parke, so that he was left
naked, the Lt. General haveing information of this,
sharply reproved deponent for the same. Signed,
Jno. Lindsay. 2^ pp.
154. iii. Deposition of Richard Buckeridge, Collector, Antigua,
Aug. 23, 1711. At Dr. Daniel Mackinen's house, the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 135
1711.
Lt. General expressed himselfe in a passion to deponent,
that some persons were about takeing affidavits in
relation to ye death of Generall Parke, but that they had
better lett it alone, and that he should resent it, etc.
Signed, Richd. Buckeridge. 1 p.
154. iv. Deposition of Dr. Gousse Bonnin, Antigua, Aug. 25,
1711. Summoned before the Generall Council at St.
Johns, about March last, deponent was asked by the
Lt. Generall if he knew which way Generall Parke came
by his death. Deponent desired to be excused, for
that it was not safe for him to answer, having already
suffered very much, and had been lately threatend by
severall on that account. The Lt. Generall said he
should only put a few questions to him wch. should be
no way prejudiciall to him, which questions being put,
deponent answered the same. Mr. John Willett, one
of the Council, desired deponent's answer to the h'rst
question should be minuted with his other answers,
which was done after some debate. In the afternoon,
deponent, being sent for again to answer something
more fully, found the answer to the first question which
was minuted to be quite raced out. When he returned
his first answer, the Lt. Generall neither encouraged nor
declared his protection to deponent, etc. Signed, Gousse
Bonnin. 1| pp.
154. v. Deposition of Charles Bowes, Serjeant in the company
whereof Capt. Thoni. Newell is commander, in Col.
James Jones' Regiment. Antigua, Aug. 25, 1711. Taken
before Thomas Morris J.P. and Richard Oliver J.P.
A few days after the murther of Governor Parke, when
deponent was wounded, and having to the utmost of
his ability stood by the General, he fled, for fear of his
life, incognito to Nevis, where by order of Lt. General
Hamilton he was seized and sent up to Antigua, where
he languished with his wounds, notwithstanding which
Col. Jones sent him up to Monks Hill fortifications, and
put him in a dungeon where he could not stand up, and
where he was above two weeks, at last let out, when
Col. Jones would have had him swear that Generall
Parke had sold the Island, which deponent refused,
for that it was false, afterwards was had before the
Lt. Generall and Generall Council in St. Johns, when an
affidavitt was read to him, which he took, but having
seen an affidavit recorded in the Generall Councill
books as taken by him, he on his oath declares the same
not to be the affidavit read to him and by him taken, for
that he never heard General Parke tell him and others
that if he would beat or insult the Gentlemen of the
country, he would give for each of the persons so beaten
a pistole, or anything like it, or of his promiseing a
reward to whom should well thrash Perry and Scheur-
man, or his promiseing any indemnity to those that did
136 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
it, or of his saying if he had but two companys which
he knew in Flanders, he would soon drive half the
Planters of the Island, or that they, the soldiers, were
cowards for not beating the Planters, which he had so
often ordered them. Deponent believes he might say
that one Newgent soldier told him that the General
said to him, why don't you thrash Edwd. Perry, it
being spoken on a complt. made to the General by
Newgent. Perry had grossly abused him. Deponent
believes he might say that the General said that Scheur-
man ought to be well beaten, which was thus, Deponent
going by a house where Scheurman was, Scheurman
said to deponent (the General and Col. Newell going by
at ye same time) There goes the General and that long
dog your Captain. Deponent informing them of it,
the General answered as aforesaid. When he was
under confinement at Monkshill, Col. Jones told him
that he must needs know what women came to the
Generall, deponent being so long Serjeant of his Guard.
He answered he knew not of any. Jones replyed,
that if he did not, he should lye there untill he would
rott. Signed, Charles Bowes. 2| pp.
154. vi. Deposition of Caesar Rodeney, trustee and executor
of General Parke. Antigua, Aug. 27, 1711. Being
informed that Edwd. Chester, senr., had broke open
General Parke's storehouse, joyning to Mr. Saverett's
tavern, the day he was murthered, and had taken from
thence a great parcell of barrs of iron, coco, white sugar
and browne ozenbriggs, then in the custody of deponent,
he demanded the goods of him. He refused to deliver
them, for that he had given the Lieut. Generall credit
for them in his books. Signed, Csesar Rodeney. 1 p.
154. vii. Deposition of Richard Oglethorp. Antigua, Aug.
22, 1711. The morning after Mr. Michael Ayon went
to Leeward in order to goe for England in the pacquet,
being about March 2nd, deponent, being then Deputy
Marshal, went to the house of Dr. Daniel Mackenin.
He found Lt. General Hamilton in a mighty passion,
and he severely checked deponent for not having
acquainted him therewith ; and said he would give 500
to know who carried him off or had a hand in it, and
withall talked of sending a boate after him, etc. Signed,
Richd. Oglethorpe. | p. [C.O. 152, 42. Nos. 77,
77 i.-vii.]
[Nov. 6.] 155. Petition of Arthur Slingsby to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Prays to be appointed Attorney General of Bar-
bados, he having been appointed by Governor Lowther to fulfill
that office till H.M. pleasure be known, upon Thomas Hodges'
return to England. Endorsed, Reed. 6th, Read 15th Nov., 1711.
1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 70.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
137
1711.
[Nov. 7.]
[Nov. 7.]
Nov. 7.
Whitehall.
Nov. 8.
Whitehall.
Nov. 8.
Westminster.
156. Memorial of the Proprietors of New Jersey to the
Council of Trade and Plantations. By severall letters they have
received advices of the great disorders and confusions there
amongst the people in breach of the peace and quiet of the
Province and preventing the prosperity thereof. The causes and
springs of these disorders are largely sett forth in a Representation
of the Assembly, to which they referr. They have often laid
before this Honble. Board (cf. Nov. 26, 1709) that the continuing
Mr. Daniell Cox, Peter Sonmans and others in the Councill tended
to promote those factions and divisions, and prayed that they
might be left out, and men of justice and temper nominated to
succeed them. Matters are now come to such a heigth that
unless some speedy remedy be applyed, the Proprietors' interest
will be lost, and the Province brought to utter ruine. Pray that
Cox, Sonmans, Pinhorn, Hugh Huddy and Wm. Hall may be
left out of the Councill, and Basse, who is notorious for many ill
practises, may be dismissed etc. Signed, P. Docminique, E.
Richier, Jno. Bridges, Cha. Michel, Fra. Michel, Jno. Norton,
Joseph Ormstonj for himself and George Willocks, Cha. Dunster,
John Whiting, Robt. Michel. Endorsed, Reed. Read Nov. 7,
1711. I p. Enclosed,
156. i. Copy of Memorial of London Proprietors of New
Jersey, Nov. 27, 1709. q.v. [C.O. 5, 970. Nos, 152, 153 ;
and 5, 995. pp. 148152.]
157. Affidavit by Capt. John Evans as to his bona fide
purchase for 500 of the lands granted him by Governor Fletcher,
1694, (v. Sept. 4 supra) ; of his expenditure of 350 in clearing
part of them, and the offer of 10,000 for them. Signed, John
Evans. Endorsed, Reed. Read Nov. 7, 1711. f p. [C.O. 5,
1050. No. 29.]
158. Council of Trade and Plantations to George Granville,
Secretary at War. Enclose extract from Governor Hunter's
letter, Sept. 12, concerning invalid soldiers at New York, upon
which you will please to receive H.M. pleasure, and communicate
the same to us etc. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 444, 445.]
159. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. Request payment of Office expenses Christmas 1710
Michaelmas 1711, and for salaries of Secretary etc. 9 months, and
of Commissioners If years overdue since Michaelmas. [C.O. 389,
37. pp. 2426.]
160. Deposition of Michael Ay on. On Dec. 7 last Governor
Parke sent for Capt. Joseph Rookeby of Col. Jones' Regiment
and asked him why he was not at Ms post, seeing the country was
in armes against him. Rookeby answered that he was not sent
there to fight against the subject. Generall Parke replied, I hope
you will support and defend the Queen's Representative when
insulted, assureing Rookeby that he would not fire a shott
against any person unless they first fired att him. Notwith-
138
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
standing which (/apt. Rookeby ordered his company who were
then in armes not to lire a shott against any person att their
peri-ill. Upon which Generall Parke suspended him, but Capt.
Rookeby took no notice and went out of towne. Henry Smith
then an overseer of a plantation, but now an ensigne in Coll.
Jones his Regiment was in armes that day. He told deponent,
if the murther was to be done againe, he would goe upon his hands
and head a mile to perfect itt. Col. Jones made him an ensign
in his regiment knowing this, etc. Signed, Michael Ayon. f p.
[C.O. 152, 42. No. 107.]
Nov. 10.
Boston.
161. Lt. Governor Tailer to [? the Earl of Dartmouth,
cf. Feb. 27]. I waited upon Coll. Dudley the first night of my
arrivall and delivered him your Lordship's letter, wch. was very
acceptable. H.E. ord'red a Council the next day and I was
sworne. I have spoke to H.E. about the Castle, which my
predecessor Coll. Povey had the command of, and which your
Lordship writt in my favour about, but I have not the command
of it as yet, but have H.E.s' prominiss. H.E. has allso recom-
mended me to the Assembly. I make noe doubt but of a good
agreement betwene us, for I shall in all respects be obedient to
his commands. I begg to remind your Lordship of Mr. Secretary
Granvell['s] report referring to my pay, etc. Signed, William
Tailer. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. No. 17.]
Nov. 12.
New York.
162. Governor Hunter to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. On
Tuesday last a French fisherman brought in to this harbour the
poor remains of H.M.S. the Feversham's crew, which with the
three transports loaded with provisions for the Expedition was
cast away upon Cape Britton on Oct. 7th in the night. All the
officers except the Lutenant and Master perisht, and only 48 of
150 sailors sav'd. Since the fatal miscarriage of the intended
expedition our frontiers have been infested and two familys
cutt off by the French Indians. I have putt them into the best
posture I can in such poor circumstances as the Govt. at present
is and shall do my best in that and every thing else for H.M.
service. Encloses Address of the Council and Assembly for
renewing the Expedition. If H.M. so pleases God grant it better
successe, but it is necessary we have here more timely notice if
anything is to be provided on this side. I know the winds
prevented our last advices, for the Fleet arriv'd much about the
time H.M. orders came to my hands. Sending this by an un-
certain conveyance I shall trouble your Lordp. no further then
to let you know that the affaires of H.M. Government go on at
the same rate in the Assembly here as formerly and not the least
glimpse of hopes of a Revenue or their ever being on a
better foot by any means here. I shall indeavour to maintain
H.M. right, let my sufferings increase never so much, etc. P.S.
The men of the Joseph and Mary transports are all sav'd. The
Master and 5 of the Neptune transport's men lost. Signed,
Ro. Hunter. If pp. [C.O. 5, 1091. No. 27 ; and (duplicate) 28.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 139
1711.
Nov. 12. 163. Mr. Bridger to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. Mr. Mico,
Boston. factor to Mr. Francis Collins, has every year cut the full number
of masts according to the contract with the Navy Board and has
delivered only 3 shipps' loads. He has cut a great number of
masts every year exceeding the number and demolitions of the
contract etc. There are 9 shipps' loadings due or 576 masts
wch. should have been delivered yearly according to contract,
wch. is a great disappointment to the service. All these masts
are rotting in the River of Pjscataqua, and it is to H.M. damage
more than 17,000 at 30 per mast, and by Mr. Mice's workmen's
impudent and unwarrantable proceedings has let everyone into
H.M. woods, where they have cut many hundreds of masts, and
this has been a long time practised, but hope by the due proceed-
ing of the late Act of Parliament in that case made and provided
[hope] I shall be able to give your Lordp. a good account thereof
in a year or two etc. I begg that an order may be granted for
my seizing all masts that shall be found cut above contract, and
that such care be taken of those masts in contract that are good,
as your Lordp.' shall think most convenient, etc. Signed, J.
Bridger. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. No. 18.]
Nov. 13. 164. Governor Dudley to Mr. Secretary St. John. Refers
Boston, to letters of July 11 and Sept. 3. Since which by H.M.S. the
lew England. gq u i rre i j have a letter from your Honour's office, accompanying
certain goods with envoyce dated Aug. 2nd which were left
behind at Portsmouth, to be sent to Mr. Nutmaker, Comissary of
the Stores, etc. which I have disposed in store for H.M. further
order. On Oct. 1st I received your Honour's letter of May 29
by Capt. Wade in H.M.S. the Adventure, on board of wch. were
100 soldiers that were on board the transports separated from the
Fleet in their passage hither and returned to Ireland, the Fleet
being gone home before her arrivall here, she is supplyed with
what Capt. Wade desires, and is returning home, upon whom
Lt. Generall Nicholson returns. I most humbly pray your
Honour to allow mee to represent my obedience to H.M. Instruc-
tions. The first commands 1000 able men from these Provinces,
which I raysed to a man etc., and with them were three score
officers the best that could be found, besides Col. Vetch in com-
mand of the whole. The second Instruction requires the provid-
ing transports, provisions etc., in obedience to which 20 vessels,
brigantines and others were provided with four months and half
full allowance of provisions (the instructions directing onely
three months), and the vessells were in all poynts fitted, and beds
for every two men, and a large Hospital for the sick, and all the
carpenters in the adjacent towns impressed to rayse the flatt-
bottomed boats to the satisfaction of the Admirall. In obedience
to the third article referring to Pilots, letters to all the gentlemen
in the severall parts of both Provinces were sent to examine what
persons saylors had been up Canada River and orders to the
Sheriffs to summons and bring them before the Admiral, with
charts and mapps of the River, their Journalls and soundings in
their passage thither, and I know of no man that was a sayler that
140 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
had by watere seen Quebeck but what were delivered to him and
proceeded to the number of 14 or 15 (except Capt. Southack)
most of which were examined at their return, and the accounts
they gave severally will be humbly layd before your Honour.
The fourth commands a number of artificers, masons, carpenters,
and smiths with all tools etc., there were accordingly master
workmen of all trades above impressed and delivered to Col.
King, H.M. Engineer, and all the smiths near employed to make
the axes, spades etc. from the receipt of the orders to the week the
fleet sayled, and were sent aboard and the account taken by the
engineers and I suppose sent home. In obedience to the fifth
article, so much was sayd to the severall Councills and Assemblys
that they readily came into ye service, and charge, notwith-
standing the heavy burthen of the defence of the frontiers at the
same time, and all imaginable care to conceal the design. In
obedience to the sixth I alwayes kept good intilligence with the
garrison of Port Royal, and at the GeneralTs direction sent a
detachment of 100 men, the first of the forces raysed, who stayed
there untill they were relieved by a garrison of British soldiers
sent thither by the General from Spanish River where he last
anchored, and Col. Vetch commanded the forces of these Provinces
with officers under him to his satisfaction. In answer to the
seventh, in peace we have no trade with the French at Quebeck,
nor elswhere, being forbidden by both the Crowns, much less in
warr, however being long in hopes for such a day as this, I sent
twice up the River of St. Lawrence to Quebeck for the exchange
of prisoners to make pilots, and see the place, till Mr. Voderil
forbid my coming that way about 5 years since. In one of those
vessels Col. Vetch and my son William Dudley, who now served
as a Lt. Colonel to Col. Vetch, were brought thither and tarryed
there 20 days, and made all the advantageous observations they
could, and were now ready to do their duty in all things. In
obedience to the eigt(A), I had 120 Indians in the files, good
marksmen and that had been in the service as scouts during all
the present war. In obedience to the ninth, to put everything
in order, all H.M. Governours concerned mett and unanimously
agreed all necessary articles, etc. I humbly thank H.M. in the
name of both the Provinces for her princely compassion to her
good subjects in easing their charge as much as may be, and
intimating the granting of lands and benefits there, upon the
hoped success (articles x, xi, xii). The 13th commanded an
embargo which was strictly enjoyned from Col. Nicholson's
arrival till the fleet had been gone 20 dayes, and besides the
staying our own shiping, I stay'd Mr. Le Ronde, an officer of
Mr. Costabell, Governour of Placentia, who was with me upon
exchange of prisoners, who is yet here. And besides all the
Generall Assembly stamped 50,000 in bills of credit, and lent
them for two years without interest to enable the merchants to
supply the Generall with provisions and necessaryes and set a
rate on all victualls below the ordinary price that H.M. forces
might be reasonabely supplyed. Mr. Dummer, Agent, for this
Province, will attend your Honour with accounts etc. I was
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 141
1711.
alwayes a witness of General Hill's, and the Admirall's application
and dispatch while the Fleet lay here, and humbly submit to the
Divine Providence that orders all things, and onely pray, agreable
to the Addresses from all the Goverments, that H.M. will renew
the Expedition the next year, to preserve us from the continuall
insults of the enemy upon a long frontier of these Provinces of
200 miles consisting of open villages which demand 500 men for
their defence, as well as to assert H.M. just right set forth in the
Royal Instructions for the Expedition. I hope if Col. Nicholson
depart not too soon some of the Pilotts will attend him to give
your Honour satisfaction in their ability to serve in the River of
St. Lawrence, where they have often been. I humbly pray your
Honour's favour to these poor distressed Provinces, and that my
service here may be acceptable to H.M. Signed, J. Dudley.
3| pp. Enclosed,
164. i. Proceedings by Governor Dudley etc. (v. preceding] for
obtaining pilots, June 13 July 23, 1711, concluding
with a list of 13 that sailed with the fleet. These were
recommended as skilful experienced mariners and having
knowledge in the navigation of the River, having been
trayned up to sea, and most of them masters of good
ships for many years past, and have sailed up and down
the River of Canada once at least, are men of estates
and good livers in the Province ; e.g. Capt. Thomas
Gilbert commanded a ship of war in the expedition to
Quebeck by Sir W. Phipps in 1690 in a more difficult
season of the year. Capt. Richard Harris, John Carlile
and John Jenkins served in the same expedition.
Jeffrey Bedgood was master of a sloop on a voyage to
Quebeck in 1705, John Bonner of a flag of truce in 1706.
There is no intercourse of trade between this place and
Quebeck in peace, all the knowledge the people of this
country have been capable of gaining of the navigation
of that river is from draughts and the aforementioned
Expedition. The Admiral whilest here was entertained
at Capt. Southack's house, who by H.M. especial com-
mand was to attend the service of the Expedition in
order to pilot them in the Massachusetts Province
galley up the River Canada, and had his advice and
nomination of persons most capable to serve as pilots,
he having the best knowledge of such, and those named
by him or others were commanded to attend the Admiral
at his lodgings de die in diem, to the intent he might
examine and enquire of their knowledge and to receive
his commands for the service. Others besides those
who proceeded thought capable of any pretence to the
knowledge of the River were commanded also to attend
the Admiral and accordingly did so, particularly Grant,
Furgason etc., and were supposed to have their stations
assigned them, the Governour refusing to discharge
any. It appears by the Honble. General Hill's letter
that at the Council of War after the disaster befalling
142 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
the Fleet in the River, there were but six of thirteen
pilots called and examined. Capt. Gilburt and Capt.
Harris, two of the upper rate, accounted by all among
the chief both for knowledge and experience not being
present or enquired of tho' near at hand, nor any of the
pilots on board the transports, some of which are
reputed very skilful. Upon a survey made by Captain
Southack and the chief of the pilots of all the maps and
charts of the coast and river that could be obtained
after amendments and ref ormes by them made a number
were imprinted off a plate the most correct and exact.
Fifty of them were presented to the Admiral for the
service of H.M. ships of war and the British transports
and others of them disposed to the masters of the
several transports of this Province.
Note. Capt. Southack is a skilful experienced mariner,
very ingenious in the drawing of maps, has for many
year(s) had the command of the Province galley in
H.M. service, a guardship for the coast wherewith he is
well acquainted especially in the Eastern parts and the
entrance into the River of St. Lawrence. And the
Governour directed lodging to be taken at Capt. South-
ack's house for the Admiral that he might be the more
constantly attended by him and the other pilots.
However upon the Fleet's sayling, Capt. Southack was
left behind to put in execution orders given him by
the Admiral. And was not with the Fleet at the time
of the disaster. Also the Admiral at his arrival at
Boston dispatched an order to the Captain of the
Province galley then coming in from a cruise to be
dressed and equip 'd for the service of the expedition
to convoy two of the British transports to New Yorke,
from whence she returned but a few days before the
sayling of the Fleet. In which time she could not be
fitted to accompany them. But Captain Southack
being on board the Flagg when the Fleet were under
sayle, received a Commission from the Admiral for the
Province galley with orders to have her fitted to sayle
to Annapolis Royall, there to take in some British
officers marines and stores of war, and so to follow the
Fleet which service demanded so long time to performe
that off of Port Rosaway, Sept. , he met the transports
of this Province on their voyage homeward by whome
he had intelligence that the fleet were come out of the
River Canada, had lyen some time at Spanish River,
and were returned back to Great Britain, which hin-
dered his proceeding with a vessell of provisions under
his care, and hapily prevented his runing into danger of
being exposed to the enemy. Boston, Oct. 31, 1711.
Read and approved by the Council and Assembly to
be sent to Whitehall. Signed, Is. Addington. Secry.
12 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. Nos. 19, 16.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 143
1711.
Nov. 13. 165. Governor Dudley to Lord Dartmouth. Before this
Boston, can C ome to your Lordship's hands, Generall Hill and the Fleet,
n ' and the Forces, late here and in Canada River, will be returned
with the sorrowful! news of the disapoyntment of that Expedition.
I am senseble that these Provinces of New York, Conecticut,
Road Island, the Massachusets, and New Hampshire, have in
all things obeyed H.M. commands for the service, and perticularly
in the article of pilots, which is objected, from the first arrivall
of Lt. Generall Nicholson the country was searched for every
saylour that had gone up the River, etc. (v. preceding}. They
have since giveen accounts upon oath, which are covered to Mr.
Dummer, who I have directed to attend upon your Lordship
with them, etc. The disapoyntment will leave these Provinces
in a very sorrowfull posture by the dayly insults of the partyes
of the French Indians, which run in upon the inland frontiers,
and do us mischief, and put us to continuall guards, and scouts,
for the discovery of them. Upon which, as well as the unspeak-
able benefit that will accrew to the Crown of great Britayn, in
the Naval stores, lumber, fishery, of all the North America,
these Provinces are all humble petitioners to H.M. that she will
please to revive the Expedition the next year, as by their
Addressess, humbly representing their distress and poverty,
which are sent by this conveyance. Lt. Generall Nicholson
comes home with this shipp, who has the knowledge of every-
thing relating to these Provinces, etc. Col. Tayler is well arrived
here with H.M. Commission for Lt. Governour, he is very accept-
able to mee, and he shall want nothing in my power for his
support, but upon this occasion I shall humbly acquaint your
Lordship, that at my comeing hither H.M. commanded the
Assembly to provide a house in Boston for the Governour, and
a salary to be established for his support, but all the industry
and application I could use, I never obtayned either, nor at this
time is there any establishment for a Governour, Lt. Governour,
or Secretary, which are the only officers reserved to H.M. nomin-
ation and appoyntment, but they do annually make their present
to the Governour of 300 sterl. and no more, and if my own house
and estate were not near to support me, what I have of this
Province would not find me house and bread to eat. I hope
when greater hurreys are over, H.M. will be pleased to have a
gratious consideration for the establishment of a propper support
for her servants here ; in the mean time we will do our duty in
H.M. service. I desired the Assembly to consider of a propper
support for Col. Tayler, which is now before them, etc. I most
humbly pray your Lordship's favour to these distressed Pro-
vinces, which their Agent and papers will remonstrate. Signed,
J. Dudley. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. No. 20.]
Nov. 13. 166. Mr. Popple to Mr. Bridger. Reply to July 23 and Aug.
Whitehall. 31 The Council of Trade and Plantations command me acquaint
you that when their Lordships represented to H.M. their opinion
that you should have an encrease of salary, it was upon account
of your being assisting in instructing the Palatines in the method
144 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
of manufacturing tar. But their Lordships are very much
surprised to find you have declined that work, and refused to go
to New York upon Col. Hunter's directions to you, pursuant
to H.M. letter in that behalf. Whether the Palatines went upon
the expedition to Canada or no does not appear to their Lord-
ships, but by the progress their Lordships are informed the Pala-
tines have made in preparing of trees, they are in hopes they will
succeed in the undertaking they are employed in. [C.O. 5,
913. p. 361.]
Nov. 13. 167. Governor Dudley to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Boston, tations. I have endeavoured these 9 years last past while by
New England, jj jyj favour I have had the honour to command these Provinces,
at all times to lay before the Lords Commissioners the state of
these Provinces, etc. We have in ordinary but one safe convey-
ance for letters etc., which is by the convoy of the mast fleet,
who are well arriv'd here, and will proceed from hence in about
six weeks, by who I shall cover to. your Lordships the Acts and
accounts etc. Since my last accounts I received one letter from
the Board, wherein their Lordships acquaint me they have
written to H.M. Commissioners of the Customes, referring to a
scout-boat to meet our merchant-shipps upon the coast, efc.
The Commissioners of the Customes have well provided Collectors
in all the Provinces, whom I shall alwayes assist in their duty,
this further provision of a scout -boat is only wanting in my
opinion. The Act of Parlament referring to white pine trees
I have received and published in due form, and I hope Mr. Bridger
will do his duty therein. The present state of H.M. Castle and
Forts, and the expenditure of powder and stores I shall cover
to your Lordships, as well as to the Board of Ordnance by the
mast fleet, and humbly hope your Lordships will obtayn H.M.
favour for a further supply of powder and balls for small armes, the
expence of which is constantly very great in the inland frontiers
as well as in the Castle and Forts, tho' I take all the methods of
good husbandry in my power. All is done here referring to the
regulation of ye coyn that I have at any time been commanded
in trade, and Courts of Justice, and truly we are so far reduced
by returns for Great Britayn, that we have no money left but
the bills of credit of these Provinces, which are so well established
that they are a medium of all trade exchange, and purchase
everything as well as pieces of eight, or any other forreign coyn
in use amongst us. The warr is the onely hindrance, to the getting
of tarr and other naval stores, which yet in quantity and quality
is reformed and advanced to a great degree since my comeing
hither, and will be to a perfect supply of great Britayn if peace
be restored. I humbly propose Mr. John Wentworth a man of
estate and loyalty, to be added to the Councill of H.M. Province
of New Hampshire, the fees and dutyes for his warrant being
taken care for by his correspondents in London as their Lordships
directed me. The inhabitants of this Province of the Massa-
chusetts have been disturbed in their tenure and improvement
of lands by the inhabitants of Conecticut and Road Island
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
145
1711.
Colonys, upon pretence of the division line between us, and they
have acquainted me that they have represented to your Lordships
the reasons of their chalenge. I humbly pray your Lordships
that when any Representation is made thereupon, this Gover-
ment may be advised and directed to answer before any commands
be given therein from H.M. Your Lordships have before this
time the sorrowfull account of the disaster of H.M. fleet in their
entrance into Canada River. I am well assured that the papers
sent home, and which will be offer'd to your Lordships by Mr.
Newman, the Agent for this Province, will demonstrate that there
was nothing commanded here but what was with all readiness
obeyed, and the Goverments are unanimously humble petitioners
to H.M. to revive that just and honorable resolution last year
taken by H.M. for the reduction of Canada, thereby to make
H.M. the sole possessor of all the North America. Lt. Generall
Nicholson comes home in this conveyance, to whom everything
is well known, that referrs to these Goverments and to the
Expedition, to whose account I desire humbly to be referred.
The article of Pilotts, is the great objection. I know not how
the pilots behaved themselves, but am well assured that the
thirteen persons, that were sent were master saylors men of
sobriety, and artists, who had all been up that river in services,
and expeditions, and that there are no more nor other in these
Provinces, and attended a month before the fleet say led to be
examined and further instructed with charts, and platts of those
coasts and the River of St. Lawrence, etc. Signed, J. Dudley.
Endorsed, Reed. Dec. 28, 1711. Read Jan. 14, H\\. 3 pp.
Enclosed,
167. i. Abstract of Journal of proceedings of the Governor,
Council and Assembly of the Massachusetts Bay in
obedience to H.M. commands for assisting the Ex-
pedition against Canada, June 8 July 24. Endorsed,
Reed. Dec. 28, 1711. 13pp.
167. ii. A memorial of proceedings for obtaining pilots for the
expedition. A version of part of No. 164 i. Endorsed,
Reed. Dec. 28, 1711. IQi pp. [C.O. 5, 865. Nos. 73,
73 i.,ii. ; and (without enclosures) 5, 913. pp. 363 368.]
Nov. 13. 168. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Quote Governor Hunter's letter (Sept. 12) concern-
ing Palatines and trees prepared for tar etc., and bills drawn by
him therefor, etc. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 446, 447.]
Nov. 13. 169. Same to Governor Hunter. We are now to answer
Whitehall, your letters of Nov. 28, 1710, May 7 and Sept. 12, 1711. We
laid the last year before H.M. what you then writ in relation to
the obstinacy of the Assembly of New York in not setting a
Revenue for the support of that Government, whereupon a bill
was then ordered to be brought in to the Parliament here, for
raising and appropriating such a Revenue, but the Parliament
rising before that bill could be perfected, nothing was then done
in that matter. We have now again laid before H.M. what you
Wt. 26098. C.P. 10.
146 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
write upon the same subject (Sept. 12), and since the Assembly
of New York persist in refusing to grant such a revenue as usual,
for the support of that Government, we doubt not but proper
measures will be taken here for fixing that matter for the future.
As to the Assembly's pretence that the Council cannot amend a
money bill, it is groundless and will not be allowed of here, the
Council having an equal right with them in granting of money,
there being nothing in H.M. Commission to you, under the Great
Seal of this Kingdom, to the contrary, by virtue of which Com-
mission they only sit as an Assembly, and therefore you will do
well to acquaint them herewith, that they may no longer insist
upon what is so ill grounded. It was a wrong step in the Assembly
to make a bill for the disposing of the stores at Albany, which
they had no right to, for when any money is given to H.M., and
appropriated for buying of stores, and the money accordingly
applyed, they ought not by a subsequent Act to pretend to divert
it to another use. This was never done by the Parliament here,
much less ought the Assembly to assume the power of disposing
of such stores as had been sent over by H.M., which is such a
presumption as is unpresedented in any other Assembly in
America, and therefore the Council were very much in the right
not to agree to the same. You have done ^vell in endeavouring
what in you lies to heal the divisions and to reconcile the animos-
ities between the parties there. And we hope that by your
prudent behaviour, you will in a great measure effect so good a
work. We have laid before my Lord High Treasurer what you
write in relation to the progress made by the Palatines in
preparing of trees for the production of tar, and when we know
what shall be ordered thereupon, we shall not fail of giving you
timely notice thereof. And as you take notice that besides the
tar already made, there are kilns ready to set on fire, so soon
as casks can be provided for it, we desire you to inform us how
and out of what funds those casks are provided. We are glad
to perceive that the Fort the French were building in the Onand-
age country is demolished, and we hope that by your conferences
with and prudent management of those Indians, you will be
able to keep them so steady in H.M. interest that they will not
permit the French to attempt the building of another Fort, or
to reside amongst them. The want of presents for the Indians
will, we doubt not, have been fully supply 'd by those Col. Nichol-
son carry'd over with him. We have laid before H.M. what you
write in relation to the Invalides at New York, and shall give
you notice of H.M. pleasure thereupon, as soon as it is com-
municated to us. We have had under consideration what you
write relating to the Jerseys, and are endeavouring to remedy
the inconvenienci es you complain off from the obstinacy of some
of the Council. P. 8. We desire to know where the staves and
hoops for the tar barren's are provided, and what those barren's
cost when made. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 448 451.]
Nov. 13. 170. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Qiiote
Whitehall, those passages in Governor Hunter's letters of May 7 and Sept.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
147
1711.
12 which describe the proceedings of the Assembly of New York
and their refusal to raise money for the support of that Govern-
ment. Conclude : This being the state of the difficulties the
Governor has met with in relation to the procuring a Revenue
for the support of that Government, and we having reason to
beleive from their proceedings that they are not likely to settle
such a Revenue, we humbly offer that provision be made by
Parliament for that purpose. Autograph signatures. 4 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1084. No. 49 ; and, 5, 1122. pp. 452456.]
Nov. 13.
Whitehall.
171 . Council of Trade and Plantations to Charles Whit worth.
H.M. having been at great expence in sending over to New York
and subsisting there a considerable number of Palatines in order
to their being employ'd in the production of naval stores, and
we having thereupon endeavour'd to get the best information
we could of the method of making tar, we have received two
accounts of the manner how the same is done, which differing in
some particulars, we send you copies, and desire you will give
directions to some proper person to inform himself in the most
particular manner he is capable of the methods used in Russia,
particularly how the trees are prepared, and how long they stand
after they are prepared, etc. [C.O. 5, 1122. p. 457.]
Nov. 15. 172. R. Tryon to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Lyme Street. Prays for report upon Mr. Skeen's petition (Sept. 28). I hope
no attempts against his character can have any wait with your
Lordships till you have heard what can be offered in his justi-
fication, etc. Signed, Rowld. Tryon. Endorsed, Reed. Read
Nov. 15, 1711. 2 pp. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 69; and 29, 12. p.
375.]
Nov. 16.
Nevis.
1 73. Council of Nevis to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
We do hereby certify that Lt. General Walter Hamilton hath
on all occasions during the time he had the honour to command
as Governor in Chief e, Dec. 1710 July 1711, acted with all
candour, justice and honour ; that lie with utmost vigour did
persue the enemy from one Island to the other, which were then
dayly threatned to be attacked ; that he hath oppressed none,
nor given any person any just cause (that wee know of) to com-
plaine, but by a diligent application to the bussiness of that
honourable post did keep all quiet, easy and unanimous here ;
that he so managed matters with the Generall of the French
Islands by discountenanceing Irish Papists that usually betrayed
the affaires of the Leeward Islands to the enemy, and by suffering
none to command Flaggs of Truce but men of honour and reputa-
tion that would not trade with the enemy : that they respected
him with an awfull regard, which tended much to H.M. honour
and service, and was a great satisfaction to Her Protestant
subjects of these Islands. Signed, Dan. Smith, Richd. Abbott,
J. Be von, Aza. Pinney, Law. Brodbelt, Jno. Richardson, Rob.
Eleis, Mich. Smith. 1 large p. [C.O. 152, 42. No. 80.]
148 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
[Nov. 16.] 174. Sir Thomas Laurence to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Representation on behalf of Christopher Vernon,
of Maryland. Mr. Vernon did about 8 years agoe purchase some
land of the heir apparent of Thomas Knighton deed, for 95
sterl. and 4000/6. of tobacco. Part of the said land had been
formerly bought of Knighton by John Hall (who is at present a
Member of the Councill of Maryland), and he being unable or
unwilling to make good his contract for performance of which
he entred into bond to Knighton to the value of 61000Z6. of
tobacco, did by his interest and power, and his false suggestions
(in order to make void Vernon's purchase) prevail upon the
Assembly in April, 1707, of which he was then a member, to
pass an Act for confirming the last will of Thomas Knighton deed.,
though no such will was ever made by Knighton, as Mr. Vernon
hath witnesses to prove. The said Vernon had before cast Hall
in two fair tryals in the Provincial Court, where he was then one
of the Justices, and also in one other action after the passing of
the said Act. Whilest Mr. Hall was soliciting the passing of the
Act in the Assembly, Vernon endeavoured by his Attorney,
who was a member thereof, to have a hearing against the passing
of it, but was not allowed the same. The Act is not only repug-
nant to an Act of Parliament of England for preventing of frauds
and perjury, but also contrary to two Aqts passed in Maryland
for quieting possessions, and preventing vexatious suits at law.
Mr. Vernon understanding that Hall is endeavouring to get the
said Act confirmed here, which if obtained will be the ruine of
him, humbly prays your Lordshipps to deferr the making any
report until! he shall be heard by your Lordshipps, in order to
which he is prepareing to come to England. Signed, Thomas
Laurence. Endorsed, Reed. 16th, Read 25th Nov. 17-^- (sic).
Holograph. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. No. 47 ; and 5, 727. pp.
308310.]
Nov. 16. 175. Col. Vetch to the Earl of Dartmouth. My last to your
Boston. Lordship was of Sept. 10th from Spanish River by the Leopard
man of warr, wherein I only hinted in short att our misfortune
in Canada River, knowing your Lordship will have a full account
of that affair from severall hands. I sent likewise a coppy of my
letter to the Admirall after our desaster, which I likewise herewith
transmitt by Generall Nicholson, for the other may be miscaried.
I shall not in this give your Lordship the trouble to relate any-
thing concerning that tragecall desaster, since the pilots and others
who I understand are goeing for Brittan will fully inform your
Lordship and the Ministry of all that affair. Refers to Journal
enclosed. What I am now to trouble your Lordship which
[? with] is a short account of the state of the garison of Annapolis
Royall under my command togither with the inhabitants. Refers
to enclosures. As soon a[s] Generall Hill had ordred thiss detach-
ment to be made, he both spoke and wrote the Admirall to
provide for their transeportation to Annapolis, and victualling.
The Admirall accordingly by his agent of transeports destributed
them amongest all the New England transeports that were
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. liO
1711.
capeable to receive any, which were about 10 in all. But after
wee had been some days att sea being seperate or rather losing
the convoy designedly, severall of the transeports who had on
board to the number of near 150 were carryed to Boston, together
with the company of Indians, which the Generall had ordred me
to detain att Annapolis, until! I should see if Major Livingston
with ane hundred of the Five Nations of Indians in New York
Government could be gott to relive them. But the Governour
of New England knowing nothing of Generall Hill's order about
his Indians had disbanded and dispersed before the Genii's,
letters or mine relateing to them came to his hand. I went to
Annapolis Royall with the Enterprize man of warr and about
12 transeports with some of our garison and the New England
troops that were upon the Expedition. And after haveing
exchanged the Garison and placed Major Cawfield commissioned
by General Hill to be my Deputy Governour of Annapolis Royall,
I embarqued the old garison which consisted of about 200 of the
troops raised in. New England and about 40 marines, all the rest
with their officers having been sent of some time befor to joyn
us att Quebeck. I was under a necessity to victuall the old
garison to Boston with provisions from the Fort. The Admireall
having desiered me to cause the Commissary of the New England
troops who were under my command to victuall our garison
troops as they did there own men untill there am vail there, and
for this reimbursement gave me ane order upon the Agent
Victualler att Boston to repay the New England Commissary.
But as to the old Garison that was to be transeported to Boston,
the said Agent cannot he says medle with. So I have {? told]
the Agent for the garison to charge- it amongst the other con-
tingencys of the garison. Thiss I thought fitt to acquaint your
Lordship withall, in case any objection should be made to that
artickle in the accounts. I ordred the Engineer to carry on the
reparations of the works, which are in a pretty good forwardness
with all possible dilligence whilst the season of the year would
allow of the same. During my stay there severall of the in-
habitants came in and took the oath of aledgance to H.M. upon
the proclamation by Generall Hill and Admirall Walker sent
thither and dispersed amongest them in French. There came
likewise in to me two severall messages by two severall Indians
att a time who sayd they came in the name of the Indians nearest
to the garison, and sayd that as they heard wee had promised
the French all freedom of trade and priviledges as the English
themselves, if wee would allow them the same liberty as they had
from the French garison, and sell them all sorts of goods for their
furrs particularly pouder and small shott without which they
could not subsist, they would never go no more to Canada. To
which I answered them that while they behaved themselves
peaceably they might come with as much freedom and safety
to us as they did to the French : and doubted not but they would
find all sorts of goods in a litle time cheaper then they had them
from the French : as to pouder and shott, I had not allowed the
merchants to bring any to sell, untill I see the country more
150 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
peaceable, but told them if I found they would continue peace-
able and trew to the Queen of great Brittan, they should want
for nothing. Thiss submission of the French togither with the
message from the Indians being I know the effect of their belief
Canada would be taken, and then they would have no retreat,
but as soon as they hear of our disaster, and have had fresh
orders from Canada, I doubt not but wee shall have all the force
they cann raise both of French and Indians about our garison
early in the Spring, if not sooner, so that I give no trust to them,
and have in my Instructions to the Deputy Governour cautioned
him of the same. Refers to enclosure. After having done all
that could be done att that juncture, I came to thiss place both
to dismiss the New England troops that were under my command
togither with the old garison, which was to be cleared of here,
and to hasten some part of the new garison thither from hence.
But the weather hath been so excessive stormy ever since my
arrivall that it hath not been possible for them to gett thither,
though they were sayled befor my arrivall here (I pray God wee
may have a good account of them). I shall endeavour with all
possible dilligence to gett a company of some Indians under
Major Livingston to compleat the garison, but fear shall not be
able to gett any of the Five Nations, since the French Indians
have already begunn to committ hostilitys one that side. I hope
by the mast convoy to give your Lordship a more full account of
all affairs relating to the garison then I cann now, Generall
Nicholson being to sayle so soon. I some time since transemitted
home to your Lordship and the Ministry a proposeall for forming
the troops and officers in the garison of Annapolis Roy all unto
a Regiment, which as it would be no more expensive to the Crown,
there being both the number of troops and officers to compleat
a regiment, and as it would be vastly more advantagous to the
service then as they now are, for besides the many jarrs that
happens betwixt the officers and cors with relation to preceedency
and command, which may some time or other prove [?] to the
service, there is not that care taken of the men, nor indeed cannot
be as when they every one have their particular and respective
charge in companys and a regiment : and another great uncoii-
veniency is with relation to recruiting the garison : when men
either dy, desert or are killed, there cann be no method taken to
recruit them, unless they were formed unto companys and a
regiment. Then some officers might be sent every year to
Brittain to recruite there being none had in thiss country. I
would intreat your Lordship's favour in this affair, and that I
may have the honour to command the Regiment : and the rest
of the officers according to their severall ranks, etc. Wee had a
great many dyed thiss year past, but as your Lordship may
observe by the difference of the number drawn for both with
regard to pay and provisions, I never drew for any save the
effectives upon the place ; and as it is impossible for thiss garison
to subsist without H.M. allowing them provisions gratis besides
there pay, untill the country be for some time peaceable, so I
assure your Lordship that I shall take all care imagineable that
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
1711.
H.M. be putt to as little expense with the garison while under
my command as the absolute necessity of the service will allow
of ; etc. I intreat your Lordship's favour with my Lord High
Treasurer that the Bills may be punctually payed : and if there
be anything either with regard to the form or matter of the
accounts that is amiss, I begg your Lordship's commands with
regard to the same. This comes by Generall Nicholson, who will
more fully iiiforme your Lordship of all the affairs both of Anna-
polis Royall and the whole Brittish Continent, over all which his
zeall to serve his Soveraigne and country hath been without a
parallel, and particularly these three years last past in which
his vast fatigue and matchless generosity hath been verry con-
spicuous to all whom he had to doe, etc. /Signed, Sam. Vetch.
3 pp. Enclosed,
175. i. Admiral Walker to Col. Vetch. I thanck you for
your caution concerning the French pilot, but 1 never
intended to trust him any farther then 1 could throw
him. I am satisfyed with what you propose of standing
to and lying off Cape Britton, and in case of a fog when
you hear my guns to fire as you say a gunn every two
minutes till 1 am joyii'd by you. P.S. Enclosed I
send ye signalls of the erasers that you may know them
if you meet them. Signed, Hovenden Walker. Off
Cansa, Aug. 8, 1711. Copy. % p.
175. ii. Col. Vetch to Admiral Walker. Cape Gaspee.
Aug. 26, 1711. I could not excuse myself from
giveing you the trouble of this line, with my humblest
advice that befor you send away the Saphyre you
would be pleased to consult once more with your
captains and pilots with relation to our proceeding to
Quibeck. As to the late fateal disaster that hath
happned, it cannot in my humble oppinion be anyways
imputed to the difficulty of the navigation, but to the
wrong course wee steered, which most unavoidably
carry 'd us upon the north shoare. Who directed that
course you best know : as to the navigation from hence
to Tadousac, it was never thought upon to be any
difficulty att all, more then to return to Cape Brittoune :
and when it shall please God wee are there, let all the
transeports proceed first, and by sending 3 or 4
meats or midshipmen out of every man of warr to
be each of them putt aboard of different transeports
in order to take exact notice of the difncultys of the
passage : and causeing buoy them out as they go along :
I doubt not but the passage will be made verry practic-
able for the men of warr : and when once wee are gott
up to the Toune, I look the greatest part if not all the
difficulty to be over. I doubt not but Generall Hill and
all the Collonells will be oppinion that wee have as
yett force enough left to reduce the place, and as our
returne back without any further attempt would be
a vast reflection upon the conduct of this affair (the
152 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
averseness and unsufficiency of the pilots being knowen
before wee left Boston) so it would be of a verry fateal
consequence to the intrest of the Crown and all the
Brittish Colonys upon thiss Continent. Sr. I hope you
will pardon thiss freedom : which nothing but a trew
zeall and concern for the honour and intrest of my
Soveraigne and Country would have prevailed with
me to have taken with you. P.S. I presumed some
time ago to give you a caution in a letter I wrote you
with relation to your French pilots. I wish they may
have no hand in our late disaster. Signed, Sam. Vetch.
Copy. 1 p.
175. iii. General Hill to Col. Vetch. From on board the
Windsor in Spanish River thiss 13th August, 1711. In
answer to your letter of the llth of thiss month, I had
some dayes before made a detachment of 350 private
men, with a proportionable number of officers to garrison
H.M. Fort of Annapolis Royall, and appointed a Deputy
Governour, an engeneer, two bombardiers, 4 gunners,
6 montrosses, and a sufficiant quantity of ordnance
stores, as also one company of New England Indians
for sco wring the woods etc., which Indians you are to
take with you, and to cause them to be subjected in
the same manner as H.M. regular troops till farther
orders, and the Admirll. having ordred the Saphire
a 40 gunn ship to attend the garrison, I doubt not but
hee has given the necessary orders to hir Commander.
I agree with you about preserving the armes of the
New England forces, and shall not fail to write to the
Governour of New England upon their arrivall there
to cause their armes to be secured and kept in good
order till H.M. farther pleasure be known. As to the
marines that may now be in the garrison, or which you
may meet with in the Province gaily on your way to
Annapolis, I desire you will order them to be embarqued
on board H.M.S. Enterprize, in order to their being
sent by the mast convoy to England, etc. Signed,
J. Hill. Copy. 1| pp.
175. iv. Col. Vetch to General Hill. Proposes that a company
of the New England Indians now under his command
" be detained att Annapolis untill Major Livingston
(now upon command with Generall Nicholson) bring a
company of Mohoks to relieve them. I also intreat
your Excellency's favour with the Admirall to appoynt
a man of warr to attend the garison to keep the com-
munication open with Boston, from whence we have
all our provisions, so if a privateer of 10 gunns lys att
the Gutt wee are intirely blockt up," etc. Signed, Sam.
Vetch. Spanish River, Sept. llth, 1711. l pp.
175. v. Col. Vetch's Journall of a voyage designed to Quibeck
from Boston in New England in July, 1711. Upon
Monday the 30th July I left Boston about 8 o'clock
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 153
1711.
in the morning att which time the whole fleet under the
command of Sir Hovenden Walker as Admirall who was
aboard the Edgar with the Union Flagg att the rnain-
topmasthead were under sayle and gott without the
Brewsters. I went directly aboard the Flagg, and
carry'd one Capt. John Bonner who was appoynted to
be his pilot for the said Expedition : who being verry
unwilling to go occasioned me a great deall of trouble
to gett him along with me : after having delivered him
to the Admirall and concerted a method to gett some
marines and stores of warr from Annapolis Royall, I
went on board the Windsor and waited upon Generall
Hill, where having concerted with him the necessary
orders for the marines and stores being embarked
aboard such ships as the Admirall should order to bring
them after us, and delivered the said orders and letters
to the Deputy Governour of Annapolis Royall to Mr.
Capoon, Lt. to the Company of niattrosses att Annapolis
Royall, who was to have the charge of said stores :
I went and acquainted the Admirall with the same, and
so went aboard of the ship Dispatch friggatt, in which
I was to make the voyage. The wind being then fail-,
in the evening wee made ane easy sayle and so wee
continued to doe for severall days : the wind still
favourable and moderate : the flagg bringing frequently
too, untill the heavy transeports came up, upon Aug.
3rd, the fleet being then as wee judged abrest of Cape
Sables. The Admirall bringing too for the ships that
were astern ; he sent the Lieutenant of the Swiftsure
with their boat to desier I would go aboard and speak
with him, which I immediatly did, as soon as I came
aboard, the Admirall told me he had a peice of service
to propose to me which he doubted not but I could
verry well perform if I would undertake it, and which
would be verry much for the good of the service, if I
would undertake it. I answered he might be assured
there was nothing I was capeable of but what I would
readily doe to forward H.M. service and more par-
ticularly the present Expedition in which I was so much
concerned. Then he told me that I having some
knowledge of the coast, but more particularly of the
River St. Laurence, and where the difficultys were,
and the friggatt I was aboard of being about 300 tunns
mounted with 24 gunns sayling tolerably well was a
proper ship to lead the fleet, and if I would pitch upon
three small proper vessells that sayled well to attend
upon me, he would give me directions in writting what
I should doe, that so by keeping about a league ahead
of the fleet with one of the tenders upon each bow
about a mile ahead of me and one right ahead, should
not only poynt out the fleet their way, prevent their
running into any dangers, but by the three small
154 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
vessells when wee were to anchor to make out the
anchorage for the three divisions, those vessells carrying
two of them pendents of the colour of the two broad
pendents that led two divisions of the fleet, and the
third a Jack flagg att the maintopmasthead to mark
the flag's division : as is seen more att length in the
flagg's Instructions (enclosed) : after having received
the said Instructions from the flagg and orders for the
three small vessells to attend me, I went immediatly
aboard my own ship, and sending to the said three
vessells there orders, I [accordingly with these ?] three
attending me made sayle [? and went a] head the Fleet,
keeping att the distance abovesaid. The Flagg having
[? sent] to me as a jjnjlot a Frenchman he had brought
with him from Brittain, whom he told me was a verry
good pilot for both coast and river, which indeed the
fellow did pretend to be. Upon Aug. 8 when wee were
abreast of Cancer, the Flagg sent his boat aboard of
me for thiss pilot, whom I accordingly sent him and
wrote to him att the same time that he was of no use
to me, for I found him to be a verry ignorant fellow ;
and I feared he was a rogue, and therefor advised him
to have no dependance upon him : for which he after-
wards thanked me (end. 1). The weather being then
foggy, I proposed to the flagg to runn ahead and make
Cape Brittoune, and so ly of it to let the fleet know
when to steer away for St. Pauls, and proposed to fire
a gunn every two minutes, as soon as the Fleet came so
near us as to hear their fogg signalls. Accordingly wee
proceeded to Cape Brittoun. The Flagg having sent
me the cruiser's signells to know them by. The weather
proveing clear two three days after this wee meet the
three cruisers Saphyre, Chester, Leopard : the Saphyre
two days befor the others : who came to us near the
Isle of St. Pauls : to which Island I went aboard the
Flagg and discoursed him with relation to the voyage
up the river, att which time he told me the Saphyre
then to be commanded by Capt. Rouse (who was then
exchangeing ships with Capt. Cockburn formerly in the
Saphyre} being the smallest friggatt in the Fleet should
likewise go ahead the Fleet along with me : and pro-
posed to me to go on board of her : I told him all my
stores and baggage being aboard the Dispatch it would
be too much trouble to remove in so stormy blowing
weather ; so I continued aboard the Dispatch. The
next day he sent me in writting orders that when he
would have me go ahead he would make the signall
mentioned in the said Order herewith transmitted :
but never after made any such signall : but about two
days after, the Lieutenant of the Saphyre came aboard
and brought Capt. Perkins the master of the vessell
orders from the Flagg to obey Capt. Rouse, and brought
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 155
1711.
att the same time orders from said Rouse to observe
such and such signalls : the said Lieutenant brought
the said papers and shewed them me, and told me that
the Captain expected I would come aboard his ship :
I told him I had excused myself of that to the Admirall :
so I never after had any more instructions or directions
from the Flagg. The wind being att thiss time fair,
wee steered for the mouth of the River, but upon the -
about 12 att night the Admirall made a signall to
tack ; which accordingly most of the fleet did (some
being farr ahead and to windward, they could not
hear the signalls) and for about six hours wee runn
back directly to the great surprizall of all the fleet :
and which indeed proved the accedentall cause att
least of all our misfortunes : for loseing so much time
of the fair wind, which would have carried us onto the
River. The wind comeing about just as wee came to
the mouth of the River, oblidged us to putt into Gaspee
harbour, with a wind which had wee gott into the River,
would have been verry fair for us. I went aboard of
the Flagg while wee were beating of the mouth of the
River ; and in discourse asked him what was the reason
of his tacking and standing back two or three nights
ago : he told me hi these words, it was a whimrn of
Captain Paddon's and old Bonner for fear, as they said,
of some shoal of the Isle of Anticosty. Next day wee
went into Gaspee harbour, where wee found a French
ship makeing fish, which they burnt, not having time,
I suppose, to bring her off. Wee anchored there about
40 hours : and then the wind offering fair, wee all
weighed and turned out, it being verry late in the night
before some of the sternmost ships gott out ; as to the
particulars of the winds, courses and currents I shall not
here medle withall, that being the masters' and pilots'
province, as well as the particular circumstances of our
desaster, which I suppose will be by most of them
exactly layed befor H.M. and the Ministry, only thiss
much I doe say, that Col. Dudley and Capt. Perkin,
Commander of the Dispatch friggatt where I was aboard
will attess how uneasy I was att the course the Flagg
steered that night the disaster happned : and that I
often told them that I wondred what the Flagg meant
by that course, and why he did not steer away west and
west and by south. However, wee were so cautious
as to keep astern by which wee escaped the missfortune
that happned to severall : all that I cann say upon the
matter is, that had the Flagg continued to let me go
ahead of the Fleet, as I did for some time with the small
vessells one head of us, it would have been almost im-
possible thiss disaster could have happned : for as wee
would have never steered that course unless positively
commanded by the Flagg so to doe, so the small vessells
156 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
that would have been ahead would have given me
sufficient warning and I consequently the Fleet to
avoid the danger. Upon Aug. 25th, being three days
after the desaster, most of the Fleet being close in with
the north shoare wee see a great many signalls aboard
the Windsor where Generall Hill was : one of them being
to speak with me, upon which I caused immediatly
hoist out our boat, the sea being extreamly rough,
when I gott aboard the Generall, which was with much
difficulty, I found there was a generall consultation to
be with relation to the late disaster and our proceeding.
Here it was I meet with the first certain account of the
late fateal desaster : for though wee had heard some
fireing of gunns that night, which wee did conclude to
be ships near the shoare, yett wee did not untill that
day know that there were any totally lost. I confess
the account I had on board of the Generall of thet
terrible trajedy did extreamly surprize and affect me :
the Admirall and most of the sea-captains and some of
the pilots being then aboard the Windsor, the Generall
desiered the Flagg and sea-captains to consult about
our proceeding up the River (that being their Province)
expressing att the same time both a great concern for
the late misfortune and a great deall of zeall to proceed,
not doubting but wee had still force enough left to
effectuate the designs, all the Collonells of the land
forces being likewise ther present seemed to be of the
same oppinion. As to the particulars of the consul-
tation and examination of the pilots I shall not enter
into, knowing that will be transemitted more exactly
then I cann pretend to : all I shall say as to that affair
is, that while they seem'd to make the difficulty of the
navigation so great, I told the Admirall that Sr. William
Phips went up 20 years ago with 40 sayle much later
than wee, for he did not arrive before the place untill
Oct. 9th : and gott all up safe : though there was not
one man aboard the fleet (as I am informed) ever was
there before : upon which the Flagg asked me, if I
would undertake to carry up the Fleet : I told him I
never was bredd to sea, nor was it any part of my
Province : but I would doe my best by goeing ahead and
shewing them where the difficultys of the River was,
which I knew pretty well. As soon as it was resolved
to turn back, the Admirall ordred the Saphyre to make
ready to go with an express to Boston, to be from thence
sent to Lieutenant Generall Nicholson to prevent
his crossing the Lake with the army under his command.
The Admirall said also he would go with the Fleet to
Gaspee, there to consult further about attacking Pla-
centia : as soon as I had gott aboard my own ship, and
seriously pondred the vast disadvantages and fatal! con-
sequences would attend such a [? retreat I wrote a letter to ?]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 157
1711.
the Admirall that verry night which I sent him early
in the morning, (v. end. ii.) : wee stood along to Gaspee
and from thence to Spanish River, where after some
beating in blustring weather, the fleet all gott in :
upon the of September there was a Councell of warr
called to consult about attacking Placentia : but as
I had allways declared my oppinion that unless some of
the heaviest men of warr would resolve to go in and
break the boom, it was but in vain to offer to go thither
so late in the year, so accordingly that attempt was
laid aside etc. So upon Sept. 15 the whole Fleet sailed
from Spanish River, the Admirall with the Brittish
troops and transeports for Brittan, the New England
troops and transeports under convoy of H.M.S. Enter-
prize for Annapolis Royall : with the new garison :
where wee arrived with some part of them (severalls
having lost company and gone directly to Boston)
about the beginning of October, and after having ex-
changed the garisons proceeded to Boston with the
New England troops and old garison, where wee arrived
safe about Oct. 20, 1711. Signed, Sam. Vetch. Copy.
'^PP- [C.O. 5, 9. Nos. 103, 82, 82A., 83, 101, 102.]
Nov. 17. 176. Opinion of the Attorney General. I have perused the
two affidavits of Charles Bowes and Michael Ayon agst. Henry
Smith, and am of opinion their appeares by you sufficient
matter to commit Smith for High Treason in lea vying warr against
H.M. in the Island of Antegoa in America, Antegoa being one of
H.M. Plantations. Signed, Edw. Northey. p. [C.O. 152,
42. No. 78.]
Nov. 17. 177. Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Virginia. Plantations. The last letter I had the honour to write to your
Lordps. (of which the inclosed is a copy) gave an account of my
intended progress to our Southern frontiers to meet the Deputys
of the Tuscaruro Indians. Accordingly having drawn together
to Nottoway town against the time appointed the Militia
of the three neighbouring countys, consisting of upwards of COO
men ; five of the great men of that Nation arrived very oppor-
tunely just at the time I had brought the Militia under some
discipline ; and were not a little surprized to find there so great
a body of men in such good order. After entring into conference
with them, I found both by their discourse and also from what
my Messenger assured me of his observations whilst he was in
their towns, that they were very desirous to continue in peace
with this Government, and seemed much concern 'd that any of
their Nation should have joined in the massacre in Carolina. I
then proposed to them either to carry on a war against those
Indians upon the promise of rewards to be paid them, or to join
with H.M. subjects of Carolina for extirpating those Assassines,
and that for the better assuring us of their future good behaviour
158 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
they should deliver two children of the great men of each town
to remain as hostages and to be educated at our Colleges. But as
they had no authority to conclude anything without the con-
currence of the rest of their Nation, they desired time to informe
their towns and promised to return with an answer by the 20th
of this month, and I'm in great hopes to obtain what I have
proposed by the readiness they have already showed in this
meeting, as well as their frankness in procuring the liberty of the
Baron de Graff enried upon the demand I made of him, who was
to be conducted home to Carolina the next day after my Messenger
left their country. The delivering their children as hostages will
not only prove the most effectual security for their fidelity, but
may be a good step towards the conversion of that whole Nation
to the Christian faith, and I could not hope for a more favourable
conjuncture to make this demand than now when they are under
great apprehensions of our resentment for the late barbaritys
committed in Carolina, and the impressions made on them by
the appearance of so great a force as I then show'd them. I took
this occasion to renew a proposal I formerly made to our tributary
Indians for sending some of their children to be brought up at
the College, and though it has hitherto been judged a matter so
impracticable that the Governors of the College have thought it
in vain to attempt it, and have chosen rather to be at a great
expence for buying Indians of remote Nations taken in war to be
educated in pursuance of a donation left for that purpose by
Mr. Boyle ; yet I have prevailed so far by offering to remitt their
whole tribute of skins so long as they kept their children at the
College, that the King of the Nansemonds has already sent his
son and cousin. The Nottoway and Maherines have sent each
two of their chief men's sons to be brought up to learning and
Christianity, and the Queen of Pamunky upon seeing how well
those Indian children are treated has engaged to send her son and
the son of one of the cheif men upon the same foot and I also
expect another boy from the Chicohominys. As the remitting
their tribute is one of the conditions for their keeping their
children at the College, and I beleive a strong motive to engage
their compliance, so if it should happen to be disapproved and
revoked, by succeeding Governors, because it lessens their in-
come, it may occasion their recalling their children, and con-
sequently prove a discouragement to the design of their conversion.
And therefore I humbly offer to your Lordps.' consideration that
H.M. may be moved to signify her approbation of my yeilding
this branch of the Governor's perquisites, and if that be thought
too great a prejudice to my successors, I shall if your Lordps.
think fitt, propose another fund by which H.M. may be enabled
to give an equivalent for this loss, which I shall begg leave in that
case to lay before your Lordships, and I hope the example I
have sett, with what I have recommended in my speech to the
Assembly on that subject, will prompt them to settle some fund
towards the education of the Indians, since that already given to
the College by the deceased Mr. Boyle, will be too small for the
maintenance of so great a number as are like to be there in a
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 159
1711.
short time. That your Lordps. may be informed of the affairs
under the consideration of this Assembly, I inclose a copy of my
Speech at the opening this Session, and shal by the next oppor-
tunity (wch. I expect in a short time) give your Lordps. an
exact account of their proceedings, together with the progress
of my negotiations with the Tuscoruro Indians, which I am now
obliged to break off by reason of the sudden departure of the ship,
in which this is intended. Signed, A. Spotswood. Endorsed,
Reed. 24th May, Read llth Dec., 1712. 3f pp. Enclosed,
177. i. Copy of Lt. Governor Spotswood's Speech to the
Assembly of Virginia, Nov. 8, 1711, urging them to
make provision for defence of the frontiers, etc. 2| pp.
[C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 85, 85 i. ; and (without enclosure)
5, 1363. pp. 421425.]
Nov. 17. 178. Lt. Governor Spotswood to [? the Earl of Dartmouth].
Virginia. Duplicate of preceding covering letter. [(7.0.5,1337. No. 16.]
Nov. 20. 179. Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General to the Council
of Trade and Plantations. Reply to queries of Oct. 26th q.v.
(1) Wee are of opinion that reasonably stocking and managing a
Plantation mentioned in the Act is a settlement within that Act ;
(2) The prove may be by oaths made before your Lordps., or
by oaths made in those Plantations and transmitted under the
Seal of those Islands, or by the return of a Commission which
your Lordps. might have sent thither. (3) As to the third
querie, the Act seems to have restrained the bounty to such
inhabitants and Proprietors who should resettle their Plantations
and to exclude all that had not Plantations to resettle. But
since according to the Address of the House of Commons near
the end of the last Sessions, your Lordps. are to lay an account
before that House the beginning of next Sessions, how you
intend to make the distribution, wee are of opinion it may be
proper to lay this matter as a doubt before the house, and its
probable the sufferers may then apply for a bill to enlarge their
time for making their proof of their resettling, for that by the
Act all that so resettle before the 25th Dec. seem to be intituled
for a share of the Bounty, the Act giving the same to such as had
or should resettle, without mentioning any time, other than the
time for making out the Debentures. Signed, Edw. Northey,
Rob. Raymond. Endorsed, Reed. 21st, Read 28th Nov., 1711.
1 pp. Enclosed,
179. i. Duplicate of No. 137.
179. ii. Copy of clauses from the Act for licensing hackney
coaches and chairs etc. enacting that 103,003 11s. 4d.
shall be distributed amongst such proprietors and
inhabitants only of Nevis and St. Kitts who have
resettled or shall resettle their plantations damaged by
the French etc. The Commissioners of Trade to issue
debentures for the same on or before Dec. 25, 1711, etc.
3 pp. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 91, 91 i., ii. ; and (without
enclosures) 153, 11. pp. 405, 406.]
160
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
[Nov. 20.] 180. Capt. Simson and the Widow Gandy to the Council
of Trade and Plantations. Being held responsible by the As-
sembly of Jamaica, as securities, for the defalcations of Thomas
Finch (v. Sept. 17), they pray that the bill for the sale of Finch's
estate for the payment of the sum embezzled may be passed, etc.
Signed, on their behalf, George Daniell. Endorsed, Reed. 20th,
Read 22nd Nov., 1711. 1 large p. [C.O. 137, 9. No. 50. J
181. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Forward Lt. Governor Spotswood's request for gun-
powder etc. (July 28) to be laid before H.M. Autograph sig-
natures. 1| pp. [C.O. 5, 1341. No. 17 ; and 5, 1363. pp.
367, 368 ; and 5, 1335. pp. 142, 143.]
Nov. 20. 182. Same to the Lord High Treasurer. Enclose Lt. Gov-
Whitehall. ernor Spotswood's remarks and enclosures concerning the method
of sale of tobacco for quit-rents, etc. (July 28) for H.M. pleasure
thereon. [C.O. 5, 1363. p. 369 ; and 5, 1335. p. 146.]
Nov. 20.
Whitehall.
Nov. 21.
Whitehall.
[Nov. 21.]
183. Mr. Popple to Richard Tilden. Forwards to him, as
Governor Lowther's agent, his application (v. Aug. 20) for a
Commission of Vice-Admiralty, " that you may apply to the
Lords Commrs. of the Admiralty for such a Commission, which
when you have procured you are to signify to me." etc. [C.O.
29, 12. p. 383.]
1 84. Thomas Finch, of Kingstowne, to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. Petitioner was inveigled by Charles Chaplin
(v. Sept. 17), by menaces and fair promises, into giving him
receipts for 3,800 public money. On April 17 following, Chaplin
and Simpson's interest in the Assembly prevailed so farr as not
only to expell him from the Assembly (soon after which he was
confined a close prisoner) but also under pretence of a letter
written to one of the Assembly by him, signifying that he had
sent them an abstract of what estate he had, which he hoped
would prove sufficient to pay the money he had given Mr. Chaplin
receipts for, if the House would give a little time, for collecting
so much as would pay for it, which he thereby offered to put into
Trustees' hands, praying a delay of 3 or 4 months for that purpose
(which letter was by Chaplin and Simpson artificially expounded
to amount to a request to have a law passed for the sale of his
real and personal estate) they brought in a bill to vest not only
his personal estate but also his real estate (which by the ordinary
course of law could not have been subjected to the payment of
debts) in Samuel Vassall, John Clarke, and William Norris to
pay the said 3800 in the first place to Simpson and Martha
Gandy (his securities) without having any regard to the rest of
the creditors of Finch, otherwise than to be paid out of the
residue of his estate, and without any regard to Finch's family,
who by this extraordinary interposition of the Legislature are
deprived of that provision which by the standing Laws of the
said Island could have been made for them out of the real estate
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
161
1711.
of Finch. Prays that H.M. may disapprove the Act for above
reasons. Endorsed, Reed. 21st, Read 22nd. Nov. 1711. 1 large p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 51.]
[Nov. 21.] 185. Henry Soames and other London Merchants, creditors
of Thomas Finch of Kingstown to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Pray that H.M. may disapprove the Act of
Jamaica for vesting the estate of Thomas Finch for the payment of
3800, etc. (v. preceding). The remainder of Finch's creditors
are by this law put in a worse condition than they were by the
ordinary course of law. It will destroy the credit and con-
sequently trade of the Island, if merchants' goods and credits in
the hands of factors and the estates of persons to whom they give
credits, are thus subjected to new rules of law, etc. Signed,
Henry Soames and six others. Endorsed, Reed. 21st, Read 23rd.
Nov. 1711. 1 large p. [C.O. 137, 0. No. 52.]
Nov. 22. 186. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Lowther.
Whitehall. Acknowledge letters of July 16 and Aug. 20. We are very
sorry to see such a number of British ships taken (v. Aug. 20.
No. i). We cannot but think that if the ships of war H.M. is
pleased to send for the protection of Barbados, were kept to
their duty in cruising in the most proper stations, they might in
a great measure protect and secure the trade of that Island.
You ought to have had an Admiralty Commission before you went
from hence ; for without it you have no power over the captains
of ships of war ; and therefore we have acquainted your agent
etc. (v. Nov. 21). We approve of your reasons against a cartel
for exchange of prisoners with the French, and think you are very
much in the right to refuse the sending the prisoners of theirs
you had to Martinico. [C.O. 29, 12. pp. 383, 384.]
Nov. 22. 187. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Lord A.
Whitehall. Hamilton. Acknowledge letters of Aug. 15th and 29th. As
to what your Lordship writes, relating to the duties on prize
goods, your Lordship will perceive by the Act for the encourage-
ment of the trade to America, inclosed Oct. 26th, what has been done
therein. The Assembly's pretence of a power to adjourn them-
selves without your leave, for a longer time than de die in diem,
is altogether groundless. The Assembly being called, and sitting
as an Assembly by virtue of H.M. authority, vested in your
Lordship by Commissn. under the Broad Seal of this Kingdom,
they ought not to assume a power never lodged or intended to be
lodged to them ; and therefore we doubt not but your Lordship
will upon any future occasion of that nature assert H.M. Pre-
rogative, and not allow of their adjourning themselves as afore-
said. We shall suddenly take into consideration the Acts
relating to fees, and for quieting of possessions, and shall not
fail of giving your Lordship our thoughts thereupon. We are
very glad to find by your Lordship's letter Aug. 29th, that the
Assembly met in so good a temper, and doubt not from your
prudent management, but at their next meeting they will, as
Wt. 26089, C,P. 11,
162
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Nov. 22.
Treasury
Chambers.
Nov. 22.
Whitehall.
your Lordship believes, compleat their session to satisfaction.
We think your Lordship has done well in rejecting the Cartel
offered by the French, for the French may take more British
prisoners than we take of theirs, yet as their Islands subsist
during this war chiefly by privateering, the sending of the French
prisoners to this Kingdom will be a greater loss and disappoint-
ment to them, than ye sending H.M. subjects to France, can be
to H.M. Plantations. As to your Lordship's desire of having
the nomination of persons to fill up vacancies in the Council, we
shall always have a due regard to your Lordship's recommendation
and the publick service. P.S. We have received ye broken
seal your Lordp. mentions. [C.O. 138, 13. pp. 375, 376.]
188. Lord High Treasurer's Warrant directing H.M. Remem-
brancer to take Mr. Hyde's security (v. June 14). Signed,
Oxford. Endorsed, Recdf, Read Nov. 23, 1711. p. [C.O. 5,
1264. No. 125 ; and 5, 1292. p. 329.]
189. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor
Spotswood. Acknowledge letter of July 25 (=? 28). We are now
to return an answer to that, and to your former letters of 6th
and 20th of March, and Dec. 15, 1710. We have not yet had
time to consider the Acts therein mentioned, but shall do it at
the first opportunity. In the mean time you will perceive by
our letter of April 13th last (duplicate whereof has been sent you)
that H.M. has been pleased to repeal the Act pass'd in Oct.
1666 for declaring what is meant by seating of lands, so that
Law being set aside, you are till further orders from H.M. to
govern yourself in the granting of patents for lands by H.M.
Instructions to you in that behalf. We have considered what
you write in your letter of Dec. 15, (which is what you mean by
Dec. 18th having none from you of that date) relating to the
granting of lands on one side James's River, upon the ancient
conditions of seating and planting. But as you have not ex-
plained to us what you mean by ancient conditions, we cannot
lay that matter before H.M. If by ancient conditions you mean
what was expressed in the repealed Act of 1666, we do not think
it for H.M. service that any lands should be granted upon those
terms, for the reasons set forth in our letter of April 13th. We
have considered the rules prescribed by yourself and Council,
relating to ye deciding differences between persons taking up
the same tracts, or part of tracts of land, and have no objections
thereunto. We are in expectation of the return from the Com-
missioners appointed to settle the boundaries between Carolina
and Virginia, in order to our- laying the same before H.M. for
her pleasure therein. We have laid before my Lord Treasurer
what you write in relation to the method of the selling the tobacco
arising by quit-rents, and so soon as we shall know H.M. pleasure,
we shall not fail of giving you timely notice thereof. You will
have understood by our Secretary's letter of Jan. 29 and June
29 what was our opinion in relation to the working of the iron
mines in Virginia. We are still of the same mind ; and cannot
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 163
1711.
think it for H.M. service or the advantage of this Kingdom (unless
there be other reasons than do occur to us) that such a manu-
facture should be promoted in the Plantations. What you writ
to my Lord Dartmouth in relation to the razure of the date of
H.M. letter of licence to the Robinson frigat, was referred to us
before receipt of your letter of July 25th, (= ? 28) whereupon
having examined in the Secretary's office, we found an entry
of H.M. said letter dated 18th Sept., 1708, in the 7th year of
H.M. reign, whereas the copy is dated Feb. 18, 1709, in the 8th
year of H.M. reign, so that it plainly appears that the word
February the figure nine and the word eight (as you observe)
have been razed, and accordingly we have reported our opinion.
You mention an overture that had been made to you for altering
the annual Quit-rents payable to H.M. into a fine ; upon which we
are of opinion the ancient method of annual Quit-rent is more for
H.M. service. Your diligence in supplying Col. Hunter with the
700 barrils of pork you mention, is very commendable, but if
you had inform'd us of the price of the said pork, and what
mony you have -been in disburse upon that account, we could
have laid the same before my Lord High Treasurer. We agree
with you that it is more for the service of the Plantations, to
send home to this Kingdom such French prisoners as are there
taken, than to exchange them in the West Indies, and therefore
we cannot but approve of your sending the prisoners you mention
to this Kingdom. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 370373 ; and 5, 1335.
pp. 150155.]
[Nov. 23.] 190. Copy of bond entered into by Finch, Gandy and Simp-
son (v. Sept. 17). Endorsed, Reed. Read Nov. 23rd, 1711. 1 p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 53.]
[Nov. 23.] 191. Copies of letters writ by Mr. Finch, and other papers
relating to his case (v. Sept. 17, Nov. 21 etc.] Endorsed as pre-
ceding. 8 pp. [C.O. 137, 9. Nos. 5458.]
Nov. 26. 192. Col. Vetch, Governor of Annapolis, to the Council of
Boston. Trade and Plantations. I have done myself the honour by
severall opportunitys to acquaint your Lordships with the nature
and state of Nova Scotia etc., though I have not been [? honoured
with any return from your Lordships relating to the same, etc.
In severalls of my former 1 informed your Lordships of the
ferrtility of the soyle vast quantitys of minerals, particularly
copper, lead and iron, and aboundance of verry fine marble of
all colours, masts and navall stores to be had in plenty (of which
I had cutt twenty from 18 to 26 inches, which being near the
river-side were less expensive by much then the large ones which
grow att a much greater distance, but these were all destroyed
by the enemy during our late blockade), the vast plenty of fish
and conveniency of harbours farr beyond Newfoundland. What
I am now to lay before your Lordships is in my humble oppinion
the most effectuall and easy way to make thiss a popolous and
164 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
flourishing country. The first is : that your Lordships would be
pleased to advise H.M. to give as ane encouragement to all her
protestant subjects of Brittan and Ireland who are willing to
come over to settle in the cou[ntry] free transportation, tools and
a twelve months subsistance as she was pleased to [? do for the]
Palatines : which might be done without any great expense : for
the masts ships cou[ld year ?]ly bring over 6 or 700 for a verry
small consideration : and to make the [? matter] of their subsist-
ance easy : all the men fitt to carry arms might be subsisted for
[ ] as a part of the garison : which would not only save H.M.
their subsistance [? o^erjwise, but by exerciseing them twice a
week teach them the use of arms and so make a good militia :
for as it is unreasonable to suppose ever the garison to have any
[? peace] or be capable to live upon their pay, while they are under
almost a constant block[(/e, as ?] they will ever be while Canada
is not reduced : and no inhabitants in the Country save Roman
Catholicks and savages yett more biggott then they : both of
which notwithstanding all the oaths they cann take own them-
selves obliged to break them whenever the preis[As] order them :
and give them absolution as wee have already experienced :
but if wee had once four or five hundred protestant familys
setled in the nighbourhood of the garisor as that would be a
retreat and security for them : so no party could approach
without their giving us intelligence of the same : whereas now
not having one person in all the country our freinds : wee never
know of the enimys approach untill they have done some mis-
cheif : and if with the above supposed planters att first two able
clergymen who [? understand french were sent over, I doubt
not but by their means : and the veiu of interest many of them
would become Protestants. The second thing I would humbly
recommend, will be ane effectuall means to accomplish the
former proposall : is to declare Annapolis Royall a free Port for
all H.M. subjects and confederates to trade to. This, as it could
no ways be prejudiciall to the entrest of either the Crown or
subjects : so were it limited to seven or eleven years time, it
would in one year after the expiration of that time be able to
pay H.M. more revenue then it will doe in 20 as it now is, besides
the vast advantage of peopleing the country and making it a
known port and of considerable trade, and att the same time
render it strong and secure from any insults of the enimy, etc.
I must further begg your justice and favour in relation to the
support of the garison itself : it having bein ordred by the Counsill
of Warr (appoynted by H.M. and fully impowred by her Royall
Instructions to doe everything that should be necessary for both
the reduction and security of that garison when reduced) that
8 months' provisions should be immediatly putt into the garison
for the number of troops appoynted for the same att H.M. charge
(as is usual att Gibralter and other garisons in the enimy's
countrys) before the expiration of which 8 months H.M. more
particular commands was expected to the Governour of the said
place, but none comming with relation to the same, and before
the expiration of said time the garison being blockt up by land,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 105
1711.
oblidgect the Governour (who was then commanded by H.M.
especiall order to leave that Government to a Deputy and to
come to Boston in New England, in order to take upon him the
command of the American troops, who were raised to go by sea
with Generall Hill against Canada) to cause the agent furnish
the said garison with 8 months more provisions for the number
of troops it then consisted of, which was judged absolutly necess-
ary for the security of that place, during the absence of the fleet
and army against Canada. For all which I had given the agent
bills upon H.M. Treasury as well as for the necessary reparations
of the garison with the particular accounts of the same signed by
the Engineer and Clerk of the Works therewith transemitted, as
are likewise the victualling accounts annexed to the bills for the
same, none of which have as yet been accepted by my Lord
-Treasurer to the almost mine of the agent and others concerned
with him as well as the vast discredit of the publick and loss of
every particular person upon the Brittish establishment, inso-
much that bills -upon the publick are here 20 p.c. worse then
private bills. I earnestly therefor recommend it to your Lord-
ships' serious consideration and iiitreat your favour with my
Lord Treasurer that the bills drawn upon so important service
with all possible vouchers accompanying them may be punctually
payed. If there be any one article upon examination judged
unreasonable, let an account of the same be transemitted over,
and if all possible satisfaction be not given to the same, lett it be
stopped out of the next bills, for the agent being all ways 3 or
4000 in advance for the garison before ever the bills are drawn,
he must be ruined if those bills lys six or eight months for accept-
ance, by which time he must be the like summ in advance before
the first are accepted. And as it will be impossible the garison
of Annapolis cann subsist without H.M. affording them provisions
untill the country be both peaceable and better peopled, so unless
the bills drawn for the same meet with a more punctuall accept-
ance and payment, it will be impossible for me to find any person
to be agent for the same : and as I doe assure your Lordships
I never drew for more then the effectives which the bills will
make appear : there being 100 difference in 6 months time who
dyed and deserted, which was a perquisite properly belonging
to myself and the officers, yett I was resolved to be so just to the
Crown as not to charge one man more then the effectives. The
subsistance of the above I have hinted to my Lord Treasurer,
but knowing his vast business will not allow him time to think
upon such small matters, I must humbly intreat your favour and
justice with regard to all the above premisses, and if their remains
any difficulty either in the accounts or the above proposalls that
your Lordships or the Ministry wants to be satisfied in, or with
relation to the miscariage of the late Expedition, if your Lord-
ships will obtain me H.M. leave to go to Brittain, h&v[ing] now
a Deputy Governour, I doubt not to give full satisfaction in
every poynt, etc. Signed, Sam. Vetch. Endorsed, Heed., Read
24th April, 1712. Edges worn. 2% pp. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 1 ;
and 218, 1. pp. 2330.]
166 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Nov. 26. 193. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. In reply to Nov. 13, the
Treasury Lord Treasurer transmits enclosed for the consideration of the
bers- Lords Commissioners of Trade, and requests them to let him have
a state of the affair relating to the Palatines, their numbers and
the application of the 10,000 already paid to Col. Hunter for
them ; what agreement of promise was made on H.M. behalf e
in relacon to their subsistence, together with their Lordps.'
opinion what summs may be further necessary to advance for
their subsistence before they begin to repay the publick by the
produce of their labour in the manufacture of Naval stores.
Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed. 27th, Read 28th Nov.,
1711. Addressed. 1^ pp. Enclosed,
193. i. Earl of Clarendon to the Lord High Treasurer. He-
port upon two letters from -Governor Hunter to the Earl of
Dartmouth. I conceive it is your Lordp's. intent that
I should give my opinion how farr I think it reasonable
that the demand made by Col. Hunter of 15000 a year
for two years for the subsistance of the Palatines etc.
should be granted. Col Hunter in his letter of Oct. 13,
1710, says " I have setled the Palatines on Hudson's
River etc.," but he not naming th^ place, I beg leave to
acquaint your Lordp. that by letters I have lately reed,
from New York he has setled them upon the lands of one
Robert Levingston at a place called Rooloffe Jansen's
Kill 110 miles above New York and 40 miles below
Albany. It is most certain that great quantitys of
pitch and tarr and other Navall stores may be brought
from New York and some other of H.M. Collonys upon
the Northern Continent of America much more than
Britain can consume, and that might have been done as
well without the Palatines as with them, had due
encouragmt. been given ; but I thinke it is unhappy that
Col. Hunter at his first arrivall fell into soe ill hands,
for this Levingston has been known many years in that
Province for a very ill man, he formerly victualled the
forces at Albany, in which he was guilty of most notor-
ious frauds by which he greatly improved his estate,
he has a mill and a brew house upon his land, and if he
can get the victualing of those Palatines who are so
conveniently posted for his purpose, he will make a very
good addicon to his estate ; and I am perswaded that the
hopes he had of such a subsistence to be allow'd by H.M.
were the cheife if not the only inducements that pre-
vail'd with him to propose to Col. Hunter to setle them
upon his land, which is not in the best place for pine-
trees, the borders of Hudson's River above Albany,
and the Mohacks River Schenectady are well known
to be the best places for pines of all sorts both for
numbers and largness of trees. Col. Hunter in his
letter of Nov. 14, 1710 says, " I have with good hus-
bandry saved as much out of their (the Palatines')
allowance of 6d. and 4rf. a day as will pay the officers'
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 167
1711.
salarys and some part of the contingent charge, and as
near as I can compute 15000 sterl. yearly for two years
forward will be sufficient to compleat that great work.
I have drawn bills on the Treary. for a quarter's subsist-
ence, which I begg your Lordps. will please to recommend
may be punctually complyed with, or that people must
starve and I with them, and the most beneficiall scheme
of wealth to the Nation that has been thought of in
those latter times be nipt in the bud." The bills
drawn by Col. Hunter for one quarters subsistance for
1764 adult at (yd. and 445 persons under age at 4eL a
day in all making 2209 persons, and amounting to
4700 17s. lid. seems to be computed according to the
numbers that landed at New York in June 1710, which
I think ought not to be, because its certain many of
them are dead. It is most certain that no person that
has his limbs, and will work can starve in that country,
every man or woman above 15 years of age may earn
2s. '3d. New York money (wch. is Is. 6d. sterl.) every
day in the year except Sundays. Handycraftsmen,
such as smiths, joyners, carpenters, masons and brick-
layers may earn at least 5s. New York money every
day they will work, so that nothing can bring those
people into the danger of starving but willfull laziness.
My Lord, upon the whole matter, I am of opinion that
if the subsistence proposed is allowed, the consequence
will be that Liveingston and some others will get estates,
the Palatines will not be the richer, but will be confirm'd
in that lazynesse they are already too prone to, besides
they will very easily perswade themselves that the same
interest that has obtain'd two years subsistance more
than they expected when they were sent from Britain,
will obtain two more, and soe on ; I must begg leave to
take notice that this beneficial scheme of wealth to the
Nation is not new at this time, and that some years
ago an Act of Parliament was passed for encouraging
the exportation of naval stores from the Plantations, in
that Act there was a reward promised for the importing
such stores, but there was no fund appropriated for the
payment of it, else that Act would have had a better
effect then ten times the number of Palatines, etc.
Signed, Clarendon. 2f pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. Nos. 30,
30 i. ; and 5, 1122. pp. 458464.]
Nov. 28. 194. Governor Douglas to the Council of Trade and Plan-
. St. tations. I cannot but lay hold on this opportunity of the Bridge-
Chnstophers. wat/er merchant ship bound for London to repeat to your Lord-
ships (the arrivall of the pacquets being so slow and uncertain)
that I have taken all possible care to put the island in the best
posture of defence, etc. I passed several useful bills into laws
which the publick peace oblidged me to do to amuse these As-
168 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
semblymen, tho' I much question if people under their mis-
fortunes do deserve to be esteemed the Representatives of a
country. I have in a great measure divided and broke the
knot and body of the rebells, and have chose out a handful of
this ill arm'd and almost unserviceable regiment t give some
small assistance in putting H.M. commands in execution
(especially hopeing the chief mutineers that might have prevented
that horrid murder and the loss of so many subjects, who are
sent for Great Britain, will meet with exemplary punishment)
which 1 propose to use my utmost endeavours to do on the
arrival of the next pacquet, that if possible all further charges
might be saved from the Crown. I also reviewed the Militia
at Mountserrat and summoned an Assembly there. I have also
sat some time with the Assembly I called at Nevis, where I
rectify ed the great disorders amongst their militia, and have
thought it absolutely necessary to suspend one Milliken the
Fort Major, not onely to do justice to the Assembly, whose
enquiries run very high concerning the embezlements of the
stores, but that I am well convinced he is the very reverse of
such a person as is enjoin'd me by H.M. Instructions for such an
office, and had John Butler, Lt. Col. of the Horse, sworne in his
room, a man of honesty, courage and estate, and who was recom-
mended to me by almost all the men of worth and experience
in that Island. I also appointed Richard Abbott, being the
eldest Colonel in this government, to be Brigadier General over
these Islands, and humbly begg the Royal confirmation. In
this Island I found their affairs had been long neglected and in
great disorder. I have at length opened the Courts and
established a due course of Justice amongst them, and passed a
great many bills into Laws which will be laid before your Lord-
ships with other accounts and transcripts with the first safe
opportunity. I renewed Michael Lambert Esq. his commission
(the Lt. Governor of this Island) as Major General of the Forces
in those Islands, which is humbly begg'd to be confirmed by
H.M., and since they have raised a small levy they begin to think
of repairing their forts and platforms, and presume to inclose
an account of what stores are cheifly wanting. They have begun
to build some new churches and nothing is heard now but
unanimity in their publick resolutions and all thoughts of daring
any more to invade the Prerogative seem forgot, especially since
the imprudence of one Cunningham is discovered, who has been
lately a turbulent disturber of their Assembly s. He has the
indiscretion to pretend a right by his wife, a French woman, to
a certain plantation where it was formerly called the French
quarter by a pretended grant of the late King William to one
Mrs. Sulinave, tho' the Marquis d' Amblemont a subject of the
French King's had purchased it from Sulinave's kinsman Mon-
sieur L' Abadie and possessed it for some time. I therefore
think it but justice towards the resettling and bringing more
people upon the Island to approve of the advice of both Council
and Assembly to suffer as many poor people as desire it to settle
upon it and improve it for the present ; our constant and hearty
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 169
1711.
prayers are, that H.M. sacred Majesty may retaine the intire
sovereignty of this fruitful! Island after the peace, without
which it will prove very hard for H.M. subjects to continue their
settlements and vie with a powerfully supported neighbour
by reason of their having been so often harrassed and destroyed
by the most inhumane manner of making warr which is still
practised on this side the Tropick. The Council and Assembly
presses me very hard to pass a Bill to lay a tax of 20 pound
weight of gunpowder upon every tun of sugar shipp'd from hence
to Nevis, which I have thought unreasonable, and shall not
offer anything of so extraordinary a nature without directions
from your Lordships. We are comforted with the hopes of a
very good crop of sugar in all the Islands. By private intelligence
and intercepted letters, Martinique is in a starving condition
for want of provisions. I have received George Liddell and
George Millward Esqs. into the Council of this Island, two very
worthy gentlemen, in the room of two that were superannuated
and infirm. The Islands suffer by having so few freeholders,
many of the most considerable planters and traders not being
qualify ed to be chosen Assemblymen, this makes their attend-
ance the more expensive and troublesome besides other incon-
veniencies. A poor handful of Dutch settled at St. Eustatia
are intolerable neighbours by protecting our negroes, deserters
from the regiment and all malefactors who fly thither from justice,
they also pretend to be masters of half the little Island of St.
Martin's, another nest of French privateers and thieves. I
humbly begg your Lordships' orders in this particular, if at least
I might make reprisals to bring them to know their duty to the
neighbouring subjects of that Sovereign by whose clemency
they are suffered to settle in any part of H.M. Dominions. The
poor people are transported with the liberty and protection I
give them in their settling the French part of this Island (as it
was formerly called), and these few of H.M. subjects that inhabit
some of the lesser Islands in a roving course of life will soon
be drawn to unite in strengthening this Island upon very small
encouragement. Having received some very good intelligence
that the French design to reattaque Mounserrat, I am resolved
to embarque for that Island to-morrow, to make all possible
defence if the storme should really fall there, which has cheifly
its natural situation to trust unto. Signed, Walter Douglas.
Endorsed, Reed., Read Feb. 12, 17{4- 3 pp. Enclosed,
194. i. List of Stores wanting in St. Kitts. Same endorse-
ment. 1 p.
194. ii. Address of the Council and Assembly of Nevis to
Governor Douglas. Our great misfortunes by the
enemy in 1706, by the hurricane in 1707, and by two
years of drought since, having rendred us unable to do
for ourselves as we before did, pray H.E.'s good offices
in procuring a grant of stores of war from H.M., enumer-
ated. " These things being highly necessary, and we
being not able to raise a fund for buying them, wee
depend on H.M. bounty for them." Same endorsement.
170
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
l *PP- [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 100, 100 i., ii. ; and (wit)wut
enclosures] 153, 11. pp. 430 435.]
Nov. 29. 1 95. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Walter
Whitehall. Hamilton. Lt. General of the Leeward, has informed us (v.
July 17) that the Lt. Governor of Antego had disputed the Lieut.
General's sitting in the Councill of that Island, he not being
named in your Majesty's Instructions (to the Governor in Cheif)
as one of that Councill. Upon which we humbly represent to
your Majesty, that the said Hamilton having the honour of your
Majesty's Commission to be Lieut. General of all your Majesty's
Leeward Islands, we are humbly of opinion that it is but reason-
able, and for your Majesty's service that he be admitted into the
Councills of each respective Island, and that in the absence of
the Captain General, he do preside in the Councills as he does
command in cheif there. [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 407.]
[Nov. 29.] 196. Duplicate of H.M. Order granting Mr. Hodges leave
of absence, Ap. 2, 1709 (v. Dec. 11). Endorsed, Reed. Nov. 29,
Read Dec. 11, 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 75; and 29, 12.
p. 393.]
[Nov. 29.] 1 97. Henry Newman to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Governor Dudley has represented the great difficulty he is under
to procure a quorum for H.M. Council in New Hampshire, by
reason of the great age of some, and the indisposition of others.
Recommends John Wentworth for Councillor, he having one of
the best estates in that Province and loyal to H.M. Endorsed,
Reed. Nov. 29, Read Dec. 3, 1711. 'f p. [C.O. 5, 865. No.
72 ; and 5, 913. p. 362.]
Nov. 29. 198. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
Whitehall, mouth. Enclose extract from Lt. Governor Spotswood's letter
of Oct. 15 relating to the rising of the Tuscaruro Indians, to be
laid before H.M. [C.O. 5, 1363. p. 382 ; and 5, 1335. p. 158.]
Nov. 30. 199. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Whitehall. Plantations. Encloses following. Signed, Dartmouth. En-
dorsed, Reed. 1st, Read 3rd Dec., 1711. 1 p. Enclosed,
199. i. Report of the Board of Ordnance upon the proposed
(v. Nov. 20) exchange of defective powder in Virginia.
In June 1702, in pursuance of H.M. Order in Council,
80 barrels of powder, with other stores were sold for the
use of that Colony, and paid for by the Agent thereof
to the Treasurer of the Ordnance. What quantity of
that powder remains, there does not appear to us, and
we are humbly of opinion that if it be decayed, it is for
want of care in keeping of it, and that it would be a
very ill president to cause such powder to be exchanged,
after it has been sold, and sent abroad so many years.
Office of Ordnance. Nov. 29, 1711. Copy. 1 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 73, 73 i. ; and (without enclosure)
5, 1363. p. 384.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
171
1711.
Dec. 3. 200. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. -Re-
Whitehall, commend Win. Basset and Win. Fitzhugh for the Council of
Virginia, as proposed by Lt. Gov. Spotswood, etc. [C.O. 5,
1363. p. 383 ; and 5, 1335. pp. 160, 161.]
Dec. 3.
Whitehall.
201 . Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Refer
to clauses in Act for licensing hackney coaches for relief of sufferers
in St. Kitts and Nevis (v. No. 179 ii.). Upon consideration of
which clause and the execution thereof, several difficulties did
arise ( 1 ) It is not determined by the clause what shall be deemed
a resettlement, or when such as have not already resettled, shall
be obliged to do the same, or in what manner such obligation
shall be entred into, (ii) For that the clause hath restrained the
bounty intended to such inhabitants and proprietors only who
should resettle their plantations, and consequently excludes all
that had not Plantations to resettle, whereas in the returns of
the losses sustained, there appears to be considerable numbers
of persons who had no plantations such as merchants, shop-
keepers and other dealers and inhabitants. Whereupon we
advised with your Ma j ties. Attorny and Solicitor General, who
agree with us that it is proper to lay these matters before the
House of Commons, that the said sufferers may apply for an
explanation of the said clause, and for inlarging the time of their
making proof accordingly. And the House of Commons having
on the 7th June last humbly addressed your Majesty that an
account be laid before their House the begining of the next
Session of Parliament, of the distribution intended to be made of
the debentures directed to be delivered by the Commissioners
of Trade and Plantations for releif of the sufferers in Nevis and
St. Kitts, etc., we therefore humbly lay the state of this matter
before your Majesty. [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 408410.]
202. Lords Proprietors of Carolina to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. We being informed that your Lordps. have
receiv'd an account from Virginia, that several of H.M. subjects
in North Carolina have been destroyed by the incursion of the
Tusqueroro Indians, which Indians (as is suggested) have receiv'd
incouragemt. from some of ye inhabitants of that place, and we
having as yet receiv'd no account concerning this matter, do
desire your Lordps. to transmit to us the substance of what your
Lordps. have receiv'd concerning this unfortunate accident,
that we may take all due and immediate care that all such
delinquents as shall be found guilty to be any way aiding or
assisting in so barbarous and cruel an action may be brought to
condign punishment. Signed, J. Manley for the Duke of Beau-
fort, Carteret, M. Ashley, J. Colleton, J. Danson. Endorsed,
Reed. 5th, Read 6th Dec., 1711. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1264. No. 127 ;
and 5, 1292. pp. 331, 332.]
Dec. 4. 203. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Repre-
Whitehall. sentation upon Address of the Minister etc. of the Church of St.
Mary's, New Jersey, (v. July 30). " Having lately received the
Dec. 4.
St. James's
Square.
172
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Act complained of from Mr. Penn, entituled, an Act directiixj
an affirmation to such who for conscience sake cannot take an oath,
we humbly lay the same before your Majesty, and take leave to
observe that the affirmation directed by the said Act, cloth
materially differ from the affirmation enjoyned the Quakers by
Act of Parliament here, and particularly in that the name of
Almighty God is not mentioned in it. Besides a Quaker may
by taking the affirmation directed by the said Act of Assembly,
be an evidence in any case whatsoever, and consequently in
criminal matters, which is expressly provided against by the Act
which allows the affirmation in this Kingdom. For which reasons,
we humbly offer that your Majesty be pleased to signify your
disallowance of the said Act." [C.O. 5, 1292. pp. 330, 331.]
Dec. G. 204. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
Whitehall, mouth. Reply to Nov. 30, concerning powder for Virginia.
Tho' the Board of Ordnance think it will be an ill precedent to
exchange the powder that was sold etc. ; yet if it were exchanged
by small parcels by every ship in the method and for the purposes
Coll. Spotswood proposes, we cannot conceive it will be of any
prejudice to H.M. service. We must further observe that if
upon the late massacre in Carolina, the Tuscaruro Indians should
take arms, and be joined by other nations, and Coll. Spotswood
necessitated thereby, for the defence of H.M. subjects to enter
into an Indian war, there will be a necessity of his having powder
and arms sent him ; for he informs us, that the Colony is in no
capacity to make an offensive or defensive war ; their militia
being in a manner wholly destitute of ammunition, and as ill
provided with arms that are useful ; that unless H.M. be pleased
to send thither a supply of both to lye ready against an emergency,
he fears he shall not be able to sustain any considerable attack.
Autograph signatures. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 382. No. 13 ; and 5.
1341. No. 18 ; and 194, 23. No. 4 ; and 5, 1363. pp. 385,
386 ; and 5, 1335. pp. 164-166.]
Dec. 6. 205. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lords Pro-
Whitehall, prietors of Carolina. Reply to Dec. 4. Enclose the account
received from Lt. Gov. Spotswood of the recent massacre by
Indians, etc. [C.O. 5, 1292. p. 333.]
Dec. 6. 206. Mr. Du Pre to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
London. In answer to the objection made by your Lordships of the differ-
ence, which appears in the accompts of the subsistence to the
Palatins transmitted by Col. Hunter, I humbly offer, that when
I parted from New York in Nov. 1710, the Palatins were newly
remov'd for the most part from the City of New York to the lands
laid out for their settlement ; their number then amounted to
about 2200, and many of them, having during their residence
in that City had an opportunity to see the country, where meeting
with encouragmt. they asked leave of the Governour to hire
themselves during the whiter, in order to earn something, viz.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
173
1711.
cattle, money being too scarse, which H.E. was pleas'd to grant
them : and these with some orphans bound apprentices, the
widdows and other useless people left at their own disposal,
might amount to betwixt 3 and 400, so that when they came to
be muster'd at their respective settlements, they were found
reduc'd to about 1800 souls. The Governour's intention at that
time was, to call those who had leave to repair in the spring
following to the settlement : but the delay of the needfull pro-
vision from home, for compleating the said settlement, was, as
I presume, the reason that the Governour hath omitted it,
because he was unwilling in his circumstances to augment the
charges, etc. Signed,, James du Pre. Endorsed, Reed., Read
Dec. 6, 1711. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 31 ; and 5, 1122. pp.
465, 466.]
Dec. 6. 207. H.M. Warrant to the President of the Council of Mary-
Windsor, land, transmitting the new Seal and directing him to use the
same. Endorsed, Sent to the Earl of Dartmouth, May 13. 1 h'd
pp. [C.O. 5, 7l7. No. 49 ; and 5, 727. pp. 314, 315.]
Dec. 6.
Annapolis
Royall.
[Dec. 8.]
208. Thomas Caulfield to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Though
I have not the honour to be known to yourself being att present
commander of this Garnison, I thought itt my duty to the best
of my judgment, to give you an account of itt : when first we
took posession, itt was the most miserable place I ever saw ; but
l3y our constant workeing, itt is made strong enough to withstand
any force the enemy can possibly bring against itt in this part of
the world : the Ingineir has sent a plan of the fort by this ship,
as likewise a more particular account ; the inhabitants have
lived hitherto very peaceably, and seem to be extreamly well
satisfied ; since H.M. declaration has been issued out ; which
I took care to disperce over the whole countrey ; but they cant
forbore complaining of some hardships they have undergone :
if anything extrordinary happens I won't fail accquainting you
with itt, etc. Signed, Tho. Caulfeild. 1 p. [C.O. 217, 31.
No. 3.]
209. Mrs. Ernie to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Prays to be heard by Counsel against the caveat entered by Sir
John Coliton against John Coliton being made one of the Council
of Barbados. Endorsed, Reed. 8th, Read 10th Dec., 1711. p.
[C.O. 28, 13. No. 73 ; awl 29, 12. p. 384.]
Dec. 11. 210. Micajah Perry, John Keill and James du Pre to the
London. Council of Trade and Plantations. In obedience to your Lord-
ships' commands we in behalf of Governor Hunter humbly
offer the following answers to the several objections and questions
made us concerning the settlement of the Palatins. The objec-
tions are those of Lord Clarendon, Nov. 26. Answers : (1) We own
others can raise naval stores as well as Palatins, provided they
be sent upon that design ; but since few people in that country
174 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
can be spared from other labour, there is no considerable quantity
of those commodities to be expected, but from Palatins : and we
humbly conceive that the contract made with them was thought
the most effectual means to set that manufacture upon a lasting
foot ; they having thereby oblig'd themselves, to make it their
sole business. (2) The Governour, before his departure from
England did design to settle the Palatins in the Maqua's country,
but after he had view'd the same, he judg'd it impossible for the
following reasons, vizt. (1) Because the purchase thereof from
the Indians was not clear. (2) That it is too much expos'd to
the incursions of the French and their Indians. (3) and chiefly,
because those lands are distant from the River near 20 miles ;
and Scinectady, besides a waterfall of 60 ft. high, hath the same
inconveniency, upon which account the carriage of anything
would cost as much, if not more than it's worth. Now the
Governour having found no lands at the Queen's disposal, except
a tract of 6300 acres on the West side of Hudson's River, which
being too small for such number of families, and Mr. Levingston
having offer'd to part with 6000 acres of his lands situated on
the other side of the said River, distant 8 miles above the afore-
said tract, at a reasonable rate, H.E. accepted the offer, and
purchas'd it for 200 sterl. So that both settlemts. are distant
about 100 miles from the Citty of New YorJs, on each side of a
river navigable by ships of burthen, who may take in their
loadings at the said settlements, etc. Within 3 miles, there are
large tracts of pyne lands, the owners whereof have given leave
to make use of the trees ; Mr. Levingston having reserved a sort
fit for his saw-mill for plancks and timber, and which are of no
use for tarr. (3) Mr. Levingston was alwaies known to be a
carefull, industrious and diligent man, who by these, more than
by any other means, hath got a considerable estate. It is true
that he was accus'd, by a faction in that country, of having
defrauded the Government of great sums, when he subsisted the
forces at Albany : but it is as true that he hath honourably
clear'd himself : having fairly past his accompts before a Com-
mittee of Council, upon which he obtain 'd an Act of Assembly
for releasing him" and his estate, that was under a sequestration,
untill he had so past his accompts. And the reasons which
induc'd the Governour to deal with him, was not so much his
choise as advantage, because Levingston made most reasonable
and fair offers, and because he was capable of making the largest
advances, and had most conveniencys for that purpose, as brew-
house and bake-house. However, the Governour did therein
act with all the caution and the care imaginable, and the contracts
were drawn up by Mr. Mompesson, Chief Justice of the Province,
and made as plain and binding as possible, so well with regard to
the purchase of the land, as to the bread and beer he undertook
for, at the rates the magistrates of the City of New York should
from time to time set upon them ; and with this express condition,
that if the Palatins, or their oversers had any legal objection
against either the bread or beer, he did oblige himself to take it
back and give better in lieu thereof. That Mr. Levingston
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 175
1711.
undertook this with a prospect of advantage is so certain, that
it might have created an ill opinion of him, if it were otherwise.
(4) The Palatins could not have hir'd themselves to day labour,
without disbanding themselves after their arrival at New York,
which H.E. could not have given his consent to without disobey-
ing the Queen's Royal Instructions, which are positive for settling
them in a body, and for subsisting them, untill they could subsist
of the product of their labour. And we do humbly conceive
the Governour could never have answer'd it to the Queen and to
tin's Honble. Board, if contrary to his Instructions he had suffer'd
the dispersion of them ; whereby all hope of makeing any benefit
by that useful manufacture had been lost ; especially after he
had received 8000 from the Government, in part, for their
subsistance, towards that end. Besides, anyone who is not
.altogether a stranger to that country knows, that not above 5 or
600 could have dispos'd of themselves in that manner, and even
half of them, could not have found imployment, but in plowing
and harvest time ; so that above 1000 of them must either have
starv'd, or become a burthen to the country.
Replies to your Lordships' queries : (1) How long the Palatins
are to be subsisted by the Government ? The Governour affirms,
that after Christmas 1712, the Palatins shall be able to subsist
of the product of their lands, (ii) What quantity of tarr they are
likely to make yearly ? Many experiences have demonstrated
that one man may easily make 60 barrels of tarr in a year ; so
that computing the number of working hands to be 500, these
will raise 30,000 barrels in the whole yearly after 1713. (iii) In
what manner and in what time the sums advanced by the Queen
shall be repaid ? A barrel of tarr is sold at New York for Ssh.
sterl. so that the whole product will yearly amount to 12,000.
And if the Queen will be graciously pleas 'd to allow them, for an
encouragement, suppose one moietie out of the yearly produce
(6000), there will remain a yearly 'sum of 6000 towards dis-
charging the money ad vane 'd by the Queen for their settlement
and support : so that computing the whole expence to be 40,000,
they may repay the Queen in 7 years or less after 1713. We
humbly ask leave to observe further, that tho' tarr be onely here
mention'd, it is not the only thing design'd : but as the Governour
hath carry 'd with him pots and other utencils necessary for
boyling pitch and rosin, the children from 8 years and upwards
will be usefully imploy'd therein : and that Coll. Hunter by a
letter to me, Micajah Perry, gives directions to send him a con-
siderable quantity of hemp seed, saying that he hath given
orders for preparing lands to sow it in ; and dressing of hemp is
a work that may be done in the depth of winter, when people
cannot stirr out of doors ; by which means they will have constant
employment. And if this design be duly encouraged and sup-
ported, as the Governour hopes it will, it will infallibly compleat
and make it a standing manufacture of Naval Stores. Signed,
Micajah Perry, John Keill, James du Pre. Endorsed, Reed.
Read Dec. 11, 1711. 5 pp. [C.O.. 5, 1050. No. 32; and 5,
1122. pp. 467475.]
176
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Dec. 11. 211. Mr. Hodges, Attorney General of Barbados, to Mr.
London. Popple. Encloses following to be laid before the Council of
Trade and Plantations. Being sick, prays that his attendance
may be excused till he is able to go abroad. Signed, Tho.
Hodges. Endorsed, Reed., Read Dec. 11, 1711. Addressed.
Sealed. 1 p. Enclosed,
211. i. Same to Council of Trade and Plantations. Having
H.M. leave of absence for 6 months, (v. April 2, 1709)
petitioner proposed to Governor Lowther to appoint
Richard Carter, Solicitor General, to act as his deputy.
After some delay, the Governor refused, declaring that
he would not approve any deputy made by him, but
would fill up the place himself, in case the said Attorney
did leave the Island. On being shown H.M. licence,
he said there were some words wanting, (which were
defaced by accident), and he therefore could not look
upon it as H.M. Order. Petitioner being obliged to
sail appointed Mr. Carter his deputy by a deed under his
hand. Mr. Carter promised to act, if the Governor
would permit him. But the Governor would not allow
such deputation, and a few days after petitioner sailed
commissioned Mr. Arthur Slingsby to act as H.M.
Attorney-General there, and receive all fees and per-
quisites of that office, etc. Signed, Tho. Hodges. 5 pp.
211. ii. Governor Lowther to Mr. Hodges. Aug. 18, 1711.
I am sensible what a particular loss I shall have of you.
My greatest difficulty lyes in pitching upon one that is
worthy to succeed you, etc. Signed, Robt. Lowther.
Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos. 74, 74 i., ii. ; and 29,
12. pp. 385392.]
Dec. 13. 212. Order of Queen in Council. Upon a report from the
St. James's. Lords of the Committee for hearing appeals from the Plantations,
Oct. 18 last, the petition of Edward Jones is dismist. The
Council of Trade are to report to H.M. upon the several matters
depending before them relating to this cause without allowing
any proofs to be made agt. the records of nine convictions, some
of which are for cruelty and extortion, and one of them for perjury,
the same having been before a Court having jurisdiction. Signed,
Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. Read Feb. 25, 17-J4. l\pp-
[C.O. 37, 9. No. 22 ; and 38, 7. pp. 32, 33.]
Dec. 13. 213. Joseph Martyns and other London Merchants on behalf
of the sufferers of Nevis and St. Kitts to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. Refer to form of certificate submitted Sept. 20
(q.v.) etc. " We humbly intreat your Lordships with all con-
venient speed to signify to us after what form and manner you
require that the sufferers and their Agents shall lay their claims
before your Lordships " etc. Signed, Joseph Martyns, Rich.
Meriwether, Nath. Carpenter, Humphrey South, Jos. Jory, John
Pinney, Wm. Bowden, Rowland Gideon, Sam. Travers, Ste.
Duport, Ja. Campbell. Endorsed, Reed. Read Dec. 13, 1711.
1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 93 ; and 153, 11. pp. 411413.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
177
1711.
Dec. 14.
London.
Dec. 14.
Council
Chamber.
Dec. 16.
Annopolis
Royall.
Dec. 17.
Whitehall.
214. James du Pre to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Your Lordships were pleas 'd to direct me to lay before you the
accompt of the 10,000 issued out of the Treasury for the sub-
sistence of the Palatins at New York, This I am not in a condition
to doe, because all money matters have been transacted by Mr.
Clark, the Secretary of that Province, whom the Governour hath
appointed Treasurer of that Settlemt. This accompt doth
consist in great many articles, which hath been duely transmitted
to Mr. Lownds. Mentions some heads of expenditure. Signed,
James du Pre. Endorsed, Reed. Read Dec. 14, 1711. 2 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1050. No. 33 ; and 5, 1122. pp. 475477.]
215. List of Lords not summoned to the Council, May. 20,
1707. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 11. No. 69.]
21 6. G. Vane to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. I did not beleive
the occation or conveniency of troubling you, would soe soon
have presented w.hen I had the honneur a few days agoe of writing
to you, but as the comodity of a sloop bound for boston presents,
thinke it my duty to give you the following account : we have
here a french gentleman named La Fosse who was taken prisoner
of off Cape briton the latter end of the last summer by the Mounia-
(jue man of war, in a small privatier sloop of his own, he expressing
an inclination to serve H.M. was sent hither by Genl. Hill and
Admirall Walker, with us, as a man proper to be employed, to
goe with the Queen's declaration to the[y] french and Indians
here and persuade them to submit, and become dutifull subjects
to H.M. if thejj/] were still in armes. The said La Fosse made me
two days agoe the inclosed propotition conserning his estate in
Newfoundland, (but not being very legibly write have transcribed
it) desiring me to send it for England, being ready to deliver up
his said estate to be a garnison for H.M. if she thinks fit to accept
it, desiring an establishment to settle upon in this contrey, with
a small consideration in money, as H.M. shall thinke fitt, etc.
I know the place to lye as he describes it, having seen it from sea,
and doe realy beleive it might produce the effect proposed if
rightly managed, etc. Signed, G. Vane. 2 pp. [C.O. 217, 31.
No. 4.]
217. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. The incident charges of this office amount to about
400 per annum, and by the Privy Seals which have usually
been granted etc. have been directed to be paid to our Secretary
according to accounts attested by us, etc. But in regard there is
a charge by postage of all sorts of packets from the Plantations
which contain the Laws, Books of Minutes of Councils and
Assemblies, publick accounts and other papers, which by H.M.
Instructions, are directed to be sent to us, and which will swell
the accounts of incidents to a very great summ, we humbly pray
your Lordship that in the Privy Seal now passing, the summ of
400 per annum may be directed to be paid to Mr. Popple without
account, in full for the incidents of this Office, postage excepted,
Wt. 2G089, C.P. 12.
178 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
as to which we desire the account thereof certifyed from the
General Post Office, may from time to time be laid before your
Lordship, in order to the payment thereof. [C.O. 389, 37. pp.
21, 28.]
Dec. 17. 218. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Ke-
Whitehall. commend Thomas Maxwell to be appointed to the Council of
Barbados, there being a vacancy by the death of George Lilling-
ton. [C.O. 29, 12. p. 396.]
Dec. 18. 219. [Memorandum of letter from] the Earl of Dartmouth
to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Referring following for
their report. Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. 20th, Read
21st Dec., 1711. | jp. Enclosed,
219. i. Petition of the Governor and Company of Adventurers
of England trading into Hudson's Bay to the Queen.
Petitioners etc. believing the justice of your cause and
the terror of your .arms must soon reduce the French
King to sue for such a Peace as all Europe desires etc.,
crave leave to submit the hardship of their case to your
Royal consideration. Repeat history of French depre-
dations 1682 1688, etc., which was made one of the
Articles in King William's Declaration of War. Con-
tinue : But the Company found their interest not
comprehended in the Treaty of Ryswick, which they
are far from attributing to any want of care in that
Gracious Prince, of this Kingdom's honour and trade,
and rather think their right and claim was then over-
weighed by matters of higher consequence, for by the
said Treaty they found their condition much worse than
it was before by the 8th Article whereof the French were
to be left in possession of such places situated in Hudson's
Bay, as had been taken by them during the Peace,
which preceded that war. At a meeting of Commissrs.
on both sides (as directed by the said Treaty to adjust
their differences) the Company did again set forth the
undoubted right of the Crown of England to the whole
Bay and Streights of Hudson, against wch. nothing but
sophistry and cavils were offer'd on the French side, and
the matter remain'd undetermin'd. The only settle-
ment now remaining to the Company in those parts (of
7 they formerly had) is Albany Fort, on the Che Che
Chewan, where they are surrounded by the French on
every side vizt. by their settlements on the Lakes and
Rivers from Canada, to the Northward towards Hud-
son's Bay. as also from Port Nelson (alias York Fort)
to the Southward ; the French likewise have lately made
another settlement between Port Nelson and Albany
Fort, whereby the Indians are hindred from coming
to trade with the English Factory, at the bottom of the
Bay, and if they .are suffer'd to fix and fortify in those
parts, beyond all question they will deprive your
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 179
1711.
Majesty's subjects of that tract of land, which is so large
a part of your American Dominions and rightly belongs
to the Crown of Great Britain. Not only your Majesty's
glory is concern'd to preserve those Plantations, but
it very much imports the general trade of your Kingdom
since your petitioners notwithstanding the losses and
discouragements they have labour'd under, and during
the War have brought from thence between 30 and
40,000 skins pr. annum, and doubt not yt. if they were
reinstated in their possessions according to their Charter,
to bring the said importation to 100,000. The country
doth abound with several other commodities (of wch.
Petitioners have not been able to begin a trade by
reason of the interruptions they have met with from the
French) as with whale oyl, whalebone (of wch. last
your subjects now purchase from Holland and Germany
to the value of above 26,000 pr. annum which may be
had in -your own Plantations), beside many other
valuable commodities which in time may be discover 'd.
If the French come once to be intirely possess'd of
Hudson's Bay, they will undoubtedly set up a whale
fishing in those parts, which will greatly tend to the
increase of their navigation and to their breed of seamen.
There is carryed thither and consumed there nothing
but of the product and manufactures of England, your
Petitioners encouraging and daily bringing the Indians
to wear course cloth instead of skins, which in process of
time will considerably advance the woollen trade at
home. It must needs reflect upon the honor of Britain
to relinquish to the French that territory of which their
violent usurpation in a time of Peace was alledg'd as a
main Article in the first Declaration of War against
that Kingdom. If the French cou'd pretend to any
right to the- said Territories by the Peace of Ryswick,
this right must needs be determin'd by their notorious
infraction of the said Treaty. The premises consider'd,
when your Majesty in your high wisdom shal think fit
to give peace to those enemies whom your victorious
arms have so reduced and humbled, and when your
Majesty shall judge it for your People's good, to enter
into a Treaty of Peace with the French King, your
Petrs. pray that the said Prince be obliged by such
Treaty to renounce all right and pretentions to the Bay
and Streights of Hudson, to quit and surrender all ports
and settlements erected by the French, or which are now
in their possession, as likewise not to sail any ship or
vessel within the limits of the Company's Charter, and
to make restitution of the 108,514 19s. Sd. of which
they robb'd and dispoil'd your petitioners in times of
perfect amity between the two Kingdoms. Endorsed
as preceding. 8f pp. [C.O. 134, 2. Nos. 33, 33 i. ;
and (enclositre only] 135, 3. pp. 110 117.]
180
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
Dec. 19.
St. James's.
220. Order of Queen in Council. The report of the Council
of Trade, Nov. 29, as to the rising of the Tuscaruro Indians, and
a representation of the Lords Proprietors of Carolina, praying
that Col. Gary and others sent over by Col. Spotswood as the
principal fomenters of the said disorder may be secured, are
referred to a Committee of the whole Council for their report.
Signed, Chris. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read 14th Jan.,
17|j. l^ pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 77 ; and 5, 1363. p. 391.]
221 . Order of Queen in Council. Repealing Act of Pen-
silvania directing an affirmation, etc. (v. Dec. 4). Signed,
Edward Southwell. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd. Read 4th Jan., 17{-|.
l%pp. [C.O. 5, 1264. No. 130 ; and 5, 1292. pp. 372, 373.]
222. Order of Queen in Council. Appointing William
Basset and William FitzHugh to the Council of Virginia in the
room of Dudley Digs and William Churchill. A warrant to be
prepared for H.M. signature, requiring the Governor and Com-
mander in Cheif of ye said Island (sic) for the time being to
swear and admit them, etc. Signed, Christo. Musgrave. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 11. No. 72.]
223. Duplicate of preceding. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read
4th Jan., 17 |. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 77; and 5, 1363. p. 391.]
224. Order of Queen in Council. Approving of Represent-
ation of Dec. 17, and appointing Thomas Maxwell to the Council
of Barbados, etc. Signed, Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed.
3rd, Read 14th Jan., 17}|. 1 pp. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 78;
and 5, 11. No. 71 ; and 29," 12. p. 397.]
225. Order of Queen in Council. Referring to a Committee
of the whole Council Governor Douglas' letter transmitting
evidence against Capt. Rokeby, Lt. Watts and Ensign Smith ;
and the petition of Micajah and Richard Perry, Exors. of Col.
Parke, representing the obstructions that hinder the execution
of H.M. Orders for bringing to condign punishment the persons
principally concerned in his murther, and praying that such
orders may be given as shall effectually bring the notorious
criminals to their deserved punishment, and the aforesd. officers
removed from their Commission, etc. Signed, Christo. Musgrave.
Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read 15th Jan., 17||. 1 pp. [C.O. 152,
9. No. 94 ; and 153, 11. pp. 415, 416.]
226. Order of Queen in Council. Approving Representation
of Nov. 29, and appointing Lt. General Hamilton a Member of
Councill in each and every of the respective Leeward Islands,
and also to preside in the said Councils in the absence of the
Captain General, etc. Signed, Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed,
Reed. 3rd, Read 15th Jan., 17-} j. If pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No.
95 ; and 5, 11. No. 70 ; and 153, 11. pp. 416, 417.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
181
1711.
Dec. 19. 227. Order of Queen in Council. The enclosed petition is
St. James's, referred to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their report
thereon. Signed, Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. 1st,
Read 8th Jan., 1711. I p. Enclosed,
227. i. Gawen Corbin, late Naval Officer at Rappahanock
River in Virginia, to the Queen. Complains of his
dismissal by Lt. Governor Spotswood for negligence
in the case of the Robinson frigate, and prays to be
heard in his defence. Signed, G. Corbin. Copy. H pp.
\_C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 75, 75 i. ; and 5, 1363. pp. 387
389.]
Dec. 20.
Barbados.
228. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Refers to letter of 20th Aug., and asks for H.M. pleasure
concerning men of war for that station and a cartel with Martinique
as soon as possible. Continues : H. M. Proclamation, 18th June
1704, for reducing of all foreign coins to a certain currency etc.
hath been and . is punctually obeyed by all H.M. subjects
in this Island, but the same hath not been observed in any degree
by H.M. subjects in the Leeward Islands, and other places, which
hath been an unspeakable prejudice to the Trade and interest of
this Island, for several people have made it their business to
export from hence all the money they could get to Antegoa and
other places that doe not take notice of the Queen's Proclamation,
by which nieanes there is little, or no cash left in the Island : I
beg your Lordshipes to represent this matter to her Majesty and
to signify her pleasure by the first opportunity. H.M. having
commanded me to take care that all her rightes and dues be
preserved and recovered, and that speedy and effectual justice
be administed in all cases relaiting to her Revenue, I think it
my duty to inf orme your Lordshipes of all matters and proceedings
that are in my opinion any waies inj curious or prejudicial to H.M.
Revenue that I may receive H.M. further commands touching
such practices and offences against her Revenue as are not (at
present) in my power to redress etc. Thomas Hodges Esq. H.M.
late Attorney General in this Island did on the 28th of April,
1709 exhibit a Bill in equity on behalf e of H.M. in H.M. Court of
Exchequer within this Island against Alexander Skeene Esq.
charging amongst other thinges that the said Skeene in 1706,
1707 and 1708 was prize officer in this Island, and as such did
collect receive and take several great sumes of mony arrising from
the condemnation and sail of several French shipes and vessels
and from the several goods and appurtenances etc. to such shipes
and vessels belonging, and that one moiety of the produce of
such prizes belonged to her Majesty, and that the said Skeene
refused to account for the same to her Majesty, or any other
lawfully authorized and impowered on H.M. behalfe to require
the same. To this Bill Skeene 9th June 1709 put in his answer,
but it was excepted to and reported short, whereupon Skeene
on 14th Sept. following put in a second answer to which Hodges
replyed, and Skeene having rejoyned thereto, a subpena to
judgement issued, and the 15th March 1710 the said cause came
182 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
to a hearing in the said Court of Exchequer, and the Court
decred to H.M. 209 9s. Sd. being the moiety of the neat produce
of the prize Maria of Nantz : upon this Skeene prefered his
petition to the said Court, and praied the Court to grant him an
order for a rehearing, and that in the mean time no further
proceedings be had on the said decreetal order : that petition the
said Court of Exchequer dismissed ; whereupon Skeene petitioned
Mr. Lillington then precident of H.M. Council here, and pray'd
that the said decretal order might be staied untill the merits of
the said petition was heard. Lillington on 8th May, 1711 ordered
the merits of the said petition to be heared before him in Chancery,
and that in the mean time no further proceedings be had against
Skeene. Thus the matter stood till 30th Oct. 1711 at which time
the cause came to be heared before me, and after it was opened
and spoke to by Council on either side, I declared that it was my
opinion that the Queen's Revenue and all matters relaiting
thereto was to be determined in the Court of Exchequer and that
no appeal laid from that Court to the Court of Chancery, being
the Court of Exchequer was a Court of both Law and Equity ;
I also added that it was my opinion that the late Precident's
order on the said Skeen's petition was extra-judicial, but these
points being put to the vote, all the Council gave it as their
opinion that an appeal even in the Queen's case did ly from the
Court of Exchequer to the Court of Chancery and the late Pre-
cident's order was regular and good : being thus over-ruled the
course was ordered to be heared the next sitting of the Court.
I need not observe to your Lordshipes how long Mr. Skeene
hath kept the Queen's mony in this Island, but I must take
notice that this is the first appeal that hath been made from the
Court of Exchequer to the Court of Chancery, but what effect
this inovation may have upon H.M. Revenue here ; besides
occasioning matter of trouble, expence, and delay I leave to
your Lordshipes' consideration, and desire to know H.M. pleasure
in it. I observe it was made matter of complaint (by some
Gentlemen) against Mr. Crow that during his Government he
sat several times as one of the Judges in Chancery upon his own
causes ; I likewise take notice that this and several other com-
plaintes that were exhibited against him were dismiss 'd as
frivolous : notwithstanding which I humbly desire your Lord-
shipes to let me know the Queen's pleasure what I must doe if
I should be either plaintiff or defendant in Chancery, for tho'
I have but one vote as that Court is now constituted, yet it cannot
be held without I am present. Your Lordshipes will perceive
by the inclos'd paper, that most of the Clergy here have not
only made several complaintes to one Colonel Cleland, but have
also desired him to use his interest in England to get them some
glebes added to their livings : this conduct of the Clergy hath
given great offence not only to the Council here, but also to the
General Assembly. Refers to enclosures. The benefices here
are from 200 to 600 a year, and if the Churchwardens doe not
pay the parson what is settled upon him by an Act of the Island,
the parson in such case, hath no more to doe, than to make his
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 183
1711.
complaint to the Governour for the time being who is impowered
by Law to give the parson a warrant to distrain upon the Church-
wardens for so much as there is due to him. This step of the
Clergy hath given great offence to the people, and they are very
uneasy that the Clergy are not satisfy 'd with their present
condition, especially, since the Assembly hath already dealt so
generously and well by them, that but few countries can equall
then- care and benefaction to the Church. I beg your Lordshipes
to lay the aforesaid papers before H.M. and to signify H.M.
pleasure by the first opportunity to your Lordshipes most obedient
humble Servant. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed,
llth April, 1712. Read 14th, 17th July, 1713. Holograph.
4 pp. Enclosed,
228. i. Clergy of Barbados to Col. William Cleland. Urge
him to interpose with the Society for propagating the
Gospel, for settling the affair of General Codrington's
donation and composing the difference between them
and Col. Codrington ; also to obtain an instruction to the
Governor to grant them escheated lands for glebes etc.
Complain that the Churchwardens are not under any
penalty for misapplying parish money etc. Signed,
Irvine, Brice, Wharton, Justice, Gordon, Cunninghame,
Glasgow, Bailie. Copy. 1^ pp.
228. ii. Minute of General Assembly of Barbados, 29th Oct.,
1711. Resolved that the Clergy who signed the pre-
ceding letter are guilty of the highest disrespect to H.E.
and the members of the Council and Assembly by not
communicating their imaginary wants and grievance
to them first etc., and are guilty of laying most unjust
and foul calumnies on ye Legislative power of this
Island by insinuating that ye Clergy is neglected and
the Church not sufficiently endowed etc. Letter to
the Bishop of London ordered, and an Address to H.E.
H PP-
228. iii. Address of the General Assembly of Barbados to
Governor Lowther. 29th Oct., 1711. We are satisfied
that the complaints of the Clergy are unreasonable,
and apprehend the above letter tends to create a jealousie
and mistrust of your Excellency's administration the
contrary whereof wee have experienced etc. Pray H.E.
to lay above matters before H.M. Endorsed, Reed,
llth April, 1711, (sic). 1| pp. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos.
100, 100 i.-iii. ; and (without enclosures) 29, 13. pp.
715.]
Dec. 20. 229. Governor Dudley to the Earl of Dartmouth. Since
Boston, m y letter by H.M.S. Adventure, I have caused Lt. Governor
L Taylour and Col. Redknap to view all the frontiers of this Pro-
vince next to the French and Indians, where we must expect
to be visited, this winter or early in the spring, they being en-
couraged by the disaster of H.M. fleet, however I hope to secure
the poor settlements of H.M. good subjects by a party of 200 men
184
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
I have in sloops to keep them from their support on the sea side,
and two other partys of 60 each at their secret recesses in the
forrest where they hide, who all have difficult marches to make
on their snowshoes, the snow being generally two foot deep in
the forrest. I have giveen the command of H.M. Castle at this
place, which is the only place of strength in the Province, to
Col. Taylour, which while the warr continues will give him the
benefit of 100 per annum, towards his support here, and I
humbly hope an happy peace will at length give H.M. leasure,
and opportunity to command a proper and just support for her
Governour, Lt. Governour and Secretary, etc. as Nov. 13. The
whole years accounts, etc. are covered to the Lords Commissioners
of Trade, etc. All the Assemblys of H.M. Governments have
humbly addressed H.M. to renew the expedition against Canada
the next year, etc. as Nov. 13. Signed, J. Dudley. %\pp. [C.O.
5, 898. No. 22.]
Dec. 21. 230. Mr. Addington to Mr. Popple. Encloses following.
Boston. Signed, Isa. Addington. Endorsed, Reed. April 24, 1712, Read
July 6, 1713. 2 pp. Enclosed,
230. i.-vii. Accounts of stores of war m the several Forts
in New England to June 26, 1711. Endorsed as preced-
ing. 9 pp.
230. viii.-xvii. List of causes tried in the several Inferior
Courts of the Massachusets Bay in 1711. Same en-
dorsement. 20 pp.
230. xviii. Account of H.M. Revenue in New Hampshire,
17101711. Details of expenditure of 3788 11s. lid.
Signed, Sam. Penhallow. Same endorsement. 1 large p.
230. xix.-xxviii. Duplicates of Proclamations issued by
Governor Dudley relating to the Expedition to Canada.
Printed. Same endorsement. 10 pp. [C.O. 5, 865.
Nos. 91, 91 i.-xxviii. ; and (without enclosures) 5, 913.
pp. 405411.]
Dec. 21. 231. Mr. Granville, Secretary at War, to the Council of
Whitehall. Trade and Plantations. Having layd your letter concerning the
Invalides in the companys at New York before the Queen, H.M.
was pleas'd to referr the consideration of that matter to the
Commissioners for Chelsea Hospll., and I having now receiv'd
their opinion that such disabl'd soldiers do continue at New
York, but that it should appear by certificates from the Governor
that the said soldiers have been disabled by wounds in H.M.
service, or that they have serv'd in the army 20 years or upwards
whereby they are become unfitt for further service ; they also
further proposing that the Agent here, who pays those companys,
or such other person as the Governor shall appoint, by virtue of
a letter of attorney from the soldiers shall receive their pay or
pension money as out-pensioners of Chelsea Hospitall, and that
the certificates before mention'd be sent to the Commissioners
as proper vouchers for their admittance into the pension, I
think it proper to give this information, etc. Signed, G. Granville.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
185
1711.
Endorsed, Reed. Dec. 24, Read Jan. 15, 17}
1050. No. 34 ; and 5, 1122. pp. 478, 479.]
2 pp. [C.O. 5,
Dec. 22.
London.
232. Mr. Wainwright to Mr. Newman. Gives details of the
death of Col. Hilton (v. Dec. 3). He was shot by Indians in the
woods of N. Hampshire, two years ago, whilst in command of a
guard protecting cutters of H.M. masts, etc. Signed, Chas. Wain-
wright. Endorsed, Reed. Dec. 28, Read Jan. 14, 1711. Addressed,
for Henry Newman, att his lodgings over White Hall Gate.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 865. No. 74.]
Dec. 22. 233. H.M. Warrant granting Edmund Jennings, Secretary
St. James's, of Virginia, leave of absence " for some time " etc. [C.O. 324,
32. pp. 111113.]
Dec. 22. 234. Merchants of Bristol trading to Newfoundland to the
Bristoll. Council of Trade and Plantations. Wee take leave to remind
you of the vast advantages that would accrue to Great Brittaine
by obteining the sole benefitt of the Fishery and trade to New-
foundland, which by Act of 10 and llth Wm. appears to be H.M.
undoubted right. And conceiveing the ensueing treaty to be the
likelyest time to regaine that trade to this Kingdome, most
earnestly desire your honours' care in and favourable repre-
sentation of the same. Signed, Saml. Shawe and 28 others.
Endorsed, Reed. Dec. 27, Read Jan. 14, 17}]-. 1 p. [C.O. 194,
5. No. 9 ; and 195, 5. p. 264.]
Dec. 25.
Dec. 29.
Exchequer
Office,
Inner Temple.
235. Petty Expenses of the Board of Trade, Stationery,
postage etc. Sept. 29 Dec. 25, 1711. 4 pp. [C.O. 388, 76.
Nos. 123127.]
236. Certificate that security has been given for Mr. Hyde,
Governor of Carolina. Signed, Ga. Armiger. Endorsed, Reed.
2nd, Read 4th Jan., 17}}. ^rd p. [C.O. 5, 1264. No. 128 ; and
5, 1292. p. 334.]
[1711]. 237. Copy of clauses in a Governor's Instructions relating
to form of levying and issuing public monies. 1 p. [C.O. 318,
3. No. 38.]
[1711]. 238. Copy of an Act of Pennsylvania directing an affirmation
to such who for conscience sake cannot take an oath, f p. (v. Dec.
4 and 19). [C.O. 5, 9. No. 20.]
.[? 1711]. 239. List of Governors and Proprietors of the Plantations.
1| pp. [C.O. 152, 42. No. 108.]
[1711]. 240. Naval Officers' Account of Shipping, Massachusetts,
16861719. [C.O. 5, 848.]
186 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1711.
[? 1711].* 241. Address of several inhabitants and merchants of Bar-
bados to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. Capt.
Jacobs, H.M.8. Sweepstakes, having been very diligent in cruizing
and taken more of the enemy's ships than any commander on this
station, pray that he may have the command on this station for
the future. IS signatures. '2pp. [(7.0.28,43. No. 51.]
[? 1711]. 242. Address of the General Assembly of Barbados to the
same, As preceding. Signed, Thomas Maxwell, Speaker, and
17 others. \l pp. \_C.O. 28, 43. No. 52.]
[? 1711]. 243. Mr. Fetherstonhaugh to [? Lord Dartmouth.] Prays
his recommendation to Governor Spots wood of Benjamin Needier,
son of Mr. Culverwell Needier, late Clerk Assistant of the House of
Commons etc., who is going to Virginia. Signed, W. Fetherston-
haugh. 1 p. Enclosed,
243. i. Draft of letter of recommendation as above. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 1341. Nos. 13, 13 i.]
[? 1711]. 244. Address of inhabitants concerned in the Fishery of the
Massachusetts Bay to the Queen. Return thanks for granting
petition for a convoy to their Fishery on the coast of Cape Sables,
and that so suitable a frigott as the Squirrel has been sent, the
Commander whereof gives us encouragement etc. etc. Signed,
John George and 22 others. Endorsed, Reed. 17th Jan., 17J4-
1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 148.]
[1711]. 245. Memorandum of the Staff of General Hill, Commander
in Chief of the Expedition against Canada, 17^y. Col King,
Q.M.G. ; Col. Thistleton, Adjut. Genl. ; three Majors of Brigade,
a surgeon, physician, chaplain, Commissary of the musters,
Commissary of the stores. Concludes with reference to the Staff
for Lord Cobham's Expedition in 1719. Probably dates from
preparations for Expedition in 1746. \p. [(7.0.42,13. No. 15.]
[1711]. 246. Abstract of records preserved "in the Office Books
relating to the Expeditions against Canada in 1709, 1710, 1711."
(Made at a later date, ? 1746 Ed.) 7, 13, and 2 pp. [C.O. 42, 13.
Nos. 8, 8a., 8b.]
[1711]. 247. [? Lord Dartmouth to the Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty.] H.M. haveing some moneths since received advice
that ye French intended an expedition to North America for
recovering of Port Royall, which was taken from them last
October by Col. Nicholson, H.M. was pleased to direct what
assistance and support could at this time be afforded those
people for defence of that place and ye countrey of Nova Scotia
by sending back Col. Nicholson with ye Saphire and Leopard and
two transports with armes and stores of warr. And there being
fresh intelligence that ye enemy are still pursueing that designe,
it is H.M. pleasure that you doe with all expedition send away the
Newfoundland Convoy, and ye convoy to the mast shipps bound
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 187
1711.
for New England with Instructions to ye Comodore of ye New-
foundland Convoy, to use all possible means of getting intelligence,
and when he is certainely informed by way of Placentia or from
New England or otherwise, that a French squadron is come into
those seas and sayled towards Port Royall, that he doe imediately
dispose of ye fishing shipps with the best security he can and with
the ships of warr under his comand (or soe many of them as can
be spared) sayle to New England to joyne ye Leopard and Saphire
ye convoy to ye mast shipps and such of ye guard shipps as may
be taken from ye service of that coast, and ye forces to be raised
in New England, and to observe such orders and instructions as
he shall recieve from ye sd. Col. Nicholson or ye Governor of
New England, for preserveing of Port Royall and oposeing the
sd. French squadron. And I desire your Lordshipps will be
pleased to transmitt to me by ye first opportunity, the names,
rates and strength of ye Newfoundland convoy, of the convoy to
ye mast shipps and of ye shipps of warr that are apointed to guard
ye coast of North America. 2-| pp. [C.O. 217, 31. No. 5.]
(188)
1712.
Jan. -July. 248. Permits to six ships to sail for America and the West
Indies without convoy. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 117, 118, 133, 154,
157.]
Jan. 1. 249. Governor Hunter to the Council of Trade and Plan-
New York, tations. This letter serves to inform your Lordps. of the affairs
in the Jerseys, which will not give your Lordps. much trouble,
all matters being in suspense there till H.M. pleasure be known
concerning those gentlemen of her Councill mentioned in my
former. I'le venture to promise an entire settlement both as to
H.M. interest and the animosities in the country soe she'l be
pleased to remove Daniel Cox, William Pinhorne, Peter Sonmans
and William Hall Esqrs. from that Board. Mr. Pinhorne has not
thought fitt to attend the Councill since ye Assembly at Burling-
ton, and Mr. Hall has been the cheife promoter of an Address
from the County where he lives of a very extraordinary nature,
a copy of which I herewith send ; the consequences of which have
been that little or noe taxes have been paid by that county, and
I very much doubt whether any will be paid without some
extraordinary measures to compel! them. As to the Supream
Court there, I found it necessary to displace all the Gentlemen
of the Councill of both sides from being Judges Assistants, and
to place others of known integrity and reputation in their room,
their being soe being noe part of the institution of the Court and
holding there places only by special commission from the Gov-
ernours, this was the only method left to obviate confusion in
that Court, where all matters were in danger of being determined
more by spirit of party than rules of Justice, and also to restore
the people to the benefitt of appeals of which they might be
bereaved by the number of Assistants on the Bench leaveing noe
quorum to determine in the appeale, such by my Instructions
haveing noe vote there. If yr. Lordps. approve of ye method of
opening ye Court of Chancery in New York I shall be under a
necessity of doeing it by a Proclamation in the Jerseys, despaire-
ing of ever obtaining the advice and consent of that majority in
Councill there as they now stand, or any advise for opening such
a Court, there being nothing more dreaded by that sett of men
than a Court of Equity not without reason. Signed, Ro. Hunter.
Endorsed, Reed. April 10th, 1712, Read March 19th, 17j. 2 pp.
Enclosed,
249. i. Address of the inhabitants of the County of Salem,
New Jersey, to Governor Hunter. We are deeply
senceable of our gratious Queen's innewmerated favors,
etc., one of which is in sending your Excellency, whose
mild and gentle conduct we hope will cause us to say
we are happy in congratulating your Excellency's safe
arrival. We humbly desir your Excellency in your
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 189
1712.
great clemency to grant that those of us that cannot
produce silver money to pay our taxes the Collectors
may be allowed to receive wheat, silver money being
extreamly scarse, the straits must unavoidably come
makes us intrude with this humble request that those
who cannot procure there taxes may be preserved from
distraints and as peace and concord is the strength of
a county we humbly address your Excellency to grant
us a new choise for Representatives for our county
many of us being neglidgent in ye last election that those
of our members who indangers our depopalation by
strife and anymossities may be removed from that
honourabl body that designing men may be disincour-
edged and we H.M. loyal and obedient subjects for
your Excellency's long life and everlasting felicity your
Addressers shall pray. Signed, John Hollingsworth,
Thomas Wright, Jacob Hendrixson, Benjamin Jones,
Roger .Huckings, Isaac Pearson, Saml. Wade, Joseph
Ware, Jeremiah Smith, John Loyd (his mark), Jonathan
Smith, William Short and 250 presons more. Endorsed,
as preceding. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 970. Nos. 155, 155 i. ;
and (duplicates) 5, 1091. Nos. 63, 65 ; and (without
enclosure) 5, 995. pp. 166 169.]
Jan. 1. 250. Governor Hunter to Mr. Secretary St. John. I did
New York, myself the honor to write to you by the way of Boston since the
fatal miscarriage of that justly great attempt upon Canada.
That misfortune has occasion'd a joint addresse of the Council
and Assembly here to H.M. begging she would be pleas 'd to
renew the expedition, which I have by this conveyance (the
Lowstoffe) transmitted to the Earle of Dartmouth. I have also
sent to his Lordp. a copie of the Council's Representations to
the Lords of Trade of the behaviour of the Assembly here and
the deplorable state of H.M. Government in this Province. All
hopes of a remedy on this side are groundlesse and vain. I am
confident that I have left nothing unattempted in the power of
man to procure a better settlement here, and I beleive all sober
men will do me that justice. But now the mask is thrown off,
they have call'd in question the Council's share in the legislation,
trump 't up an inherent right, declar'd the power granted by
H.M. letters patents to be against law, and have but one short
step to make toward what I am unwilling to name. The Con-
necticut scheme is what they have in their heads and, if I be not
mistaken, they are flatter 'd by some at home with the hopes of
oblidging the Crown to that concession by their undutifull prac-
tices. The various and dissonant models in the Charter and Pro-
priety Governments is apparently the spring which moves these
pleplexitys in most of the Provinces. Let them be never so well,
each conceives an opinion that their neighbours are better whilst
upon another foot of Govt. In the infancy of the Colonies, the
Crown was lavish of priviledges as necessary for their nurseing,
but a full grown boy makes commonly but indifferent use of
190 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
that indulgence requisite toward a child. If it is expected that
the Colonys now they are grown up should be a help and of some
use to their parent countrey, there is an evident necessity of
ane uniformity in their Governments. Upon that alone amongst
other things an uniformity in worship intirely depends a thing
more to be wish'd then hop'd for as they now stand. For although
I cannot accuse our missionarys of want of either zeal or industry,
their progresse is but inconsiderable and their proselytes few,
how indeed can it be otherwise when both legislative and executive
powers are lodg'd in such hands as are likelier to pull it up by the
roots then plant it, and the people they are to work upon are
generally the obstinate, the whimsical and factious who flock
hither for elbow room to exert their talents. This great work
how necessary soever requireing so much time and being lyable
to so many difficulties in the accomplishing can not be depended
upon as a proper remedy for the desperate condition of H.M.
Government in this Province. The officers upon the point of
relinquishing their employments or starving, all the extraordinary
expenses of Govt. defray'd by my poor credit, though I have
never touch'd one farthing of their money, H.M. Council here
vilified and insulted, and the officers of Government look'd
upon as the common enemy's and marks of their malice, and all
this without the least provocation or colour of reason, this I say
is the true present posture of affaires here of which I have amply
inform'd the Lords of Trade, and so cannot be accountable for
the consequences. My own ruinous circumstances nothing
affect me : I serve the best of Soverains who has formerly
releiv'd me out of great distresses, and whilst it is apparent that
I suffer in Her service and for asserting Her rights I boldly lay
claim to your protection and recommendation for relief e, etc.
Signed, Ro. Hunter. 3J pp. [C.O. 5, 1085. No. 2 ; and 5,
1091. No. 60.]
Jan. 1. 251. Governor Hunter to the Council of Trade and Plan-
New York, tations. The Councill's Representation of and remarks upon
the proceedings of ye Assembly will sufficiently inform yr. Lordps.
of the dismal situation of affaires in this Province soe farr as they
relate to H.M. Government themselves and me. I hinted to
your Lordps. some time agoe that I was not willing to incourage
anything of that nature at that time, but now that there is noe
hope of a remedy, when H.M. Councill is insulted without cause ;
their share in the legislation called in question, and H.M. Letters
Patents and the powers granted by them set at nought, I cold
noe longer discourage soe just an appeal and measures soe necess-
ary for the vindication of that Board, which hath had nothing in
view in all their actions but H.M. rights and interests, and for
which they suffer at this present time ; without being wanting
in my duty to H.M. and that justice I owe to them. To make
appeare to your Lordps. the little regard is paid here to ye powers
granted by H.M. Letters Patents, I must intreat you to cast an
eye on ye last page of ye resolves of ye house of Representatives,
and then your patience whilst I give you a short account of the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 191
1712.
matters upon which these resolves are founded. The Country
here in generall groaned under the want of a Court of Chancery,
which had been discontinued for some time before my arrival
in these parts. Petitions came thick for opening such a Court,
and from some of their own members, upon which I consulted
the Councill, they advised the addressing your Lordps. for your
opinion on that head, some faults being found with the former
constitution. Your Lordps. referr'd me to my Letters Patents,
these direct that I shall by and with the advice and consent of
the Councill erect constitute and establish such and soe many
Courts of Judicature for ye heareing, trying and determining of
all causes as well criminall as civill according to law and equity.
I referred ye whole matter again to a Committee of the Councill
who reported their opinion to me that the Governor is Chancellor
by vertue of the custody of the scale of the Province given to him
by a particular clause in his Letters Patents, this report is ap-
proved by the Councill, upon which I issued a publick notification
of that Courts being opened, and the house of Representatives
in their angry mood resolved that the erecting such a Court
without their consent is against law, without precedent and of
dangerous consequence to the liberty and property of the subject.
Had I declin'd or delay'd the opening that Court I had beene
justly accused and by themselves too of being deafe to ye cryes
of the people in a matter wherein I was sufficiently impower'd
to releive them, and had I done it in the manner they seem to
prescribe, who cold cleare me from the just imputation of haveing
complimented the Assembly with the powers granted by H.M.
to the Governor and Councill exclusive of them at a time too
when they seemed to be upon the point of disclaimeing all powers
not imediately derived from themselves. The other matter
declared to be against law is the establishing fees without their
consent. Your Lordps. well know that by my generall as well
as an additionall Instruction for that purpose, I am directed to
establish such a table of fees by and with the advice of the Councill
here, which was accordingly done and transmitted to your
Lordps. Your Lordps. find noe fault with the manner of estab-
lishing, tho' you seem to be in some suspence as to some fees
contained in the table, for which reason the Councill thought
fitt to lett a Bill establishing ye ordinance word for word tho'
the title was a bill for establishing fees lye on the table untill
further advice from yr. Lordps. These are my Lords the illegal
proceedings I stand accused of in their Journals, but by the
complements paid me in the joint address of the Councill and
Assembly transmitted to ye Earle of Dartmouth by this convey-
ance, yr. Lordps.will be convinced that their spight is not personal,
which for the safety and ease of H.M. Government here, I from
my heart wish were soe. Your Lordps. are not ignorant of
the complaints of H.M. officers at sea and land relateing to the
incouragement of desertion from both services in these parts,
and ye notifications of the same which I have received from the
Lords of the Admiralty. You are likewise noe straingers to ye
ruinous state of H.M. quitt-rents here and the frauds in the
192 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
concealment and non-payment of the same. The Councill framed
two bills (enclosed) early in this session to remedy these abuses
and sent them to the Assembly for their concurrence where they
were turned into ridicule and lay on their table for that purpose
but were never vouchsafed one reading. In short after they had
spent the greater part of this long session in frameing of bills,
which they well know ye Councill without betraying their trust
could not pass, and the remainder in unjust cavils with the
Councill, not without some oblique stroaks at your Lordps., as
you'l observe in the close of their answer to the Councill's reasons
for insisting on their amendments to money bills, they very
fairly adjourned themselves to the first Thursday in Aprill next
from Nov. 24th last. In ye meantime ye Government is left
without support, the officers of it under a necessity of relinquish-
ing their offices or starveing in them, and all the indispensible
expence thereof thrown upon me who never yet touch'd one
farthing of their moneys. My own private affaires are next to
irretreivable, but the hopes I have entertained all along of
restoreing the declineing interest of the Crown in this province
at last, have supported me under sufferings and discouragements
unspeakable, soe your Lordps. must pardon me if I once more
repeate that there is noe remedy for those evills or hopes of any
on this side, the source of which I think to be apparently a
resolution they have taken to oblige ye Crown to a concession
that they may new garble their Government after ye Connecticut
model. The Acts past this Sessions are, (i.) An Act to authorize
ye surviveing Commissioners for the expedition to reduce Canada
etc., which wants noe remark being only to supply a deficiencey
in ye former Act. (ii.) An Act reviveing an Act for the better
settleing ye militia, (iii.) An Act to prevent the impair eing the
fortifications, (iv.) An Act for raiseing 2855 oz. of plate. This
is for ye payment for the 150 men continued on foot for ye
defence of the frontier this winter, (v.) An Act for ye Treasurers
paying 3750 ounces of plate to ye Governor, this is noe more than
a warrant for the Treasurer's paying to me soe much for ye
repaires of ye fortifications of Albany and Schenectady and the
payment of the 150 men. (vi.) An Act for reviveing an Act to
prevent the setting or giveing of rum or other strong liquors to ye
Indians in the County of Albany, (vii.) An Act to oblige the
mannors in the County of West Chester to pay their arrears of
taxes. The meaning of this Act is to remedy some inconveniencies
that have arrisen from the neglect of some mannors in that
county to elect supervisors and collectors, by which means the
taxes there have not beene regularly paid. All these Acts are
enclosed. The Acts sent up this Session which have not had ye
concurrence and consent of ye Councill are besides those sent
with the Councill's representation, which want noe further
remarks, vizt. (i.) An Act for assigneing of Sheriffs, which needs
noe other remark than that it is an Act circumscribeing the powers
which the Governors have ever beene in possession of, and laying
that office under such restrictions as make it impracticable to
find in some counties persons soe qualifyed. (ii.) An Act for
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 193
1712.
appointing an agencey for New York at Great Britain. Your
Lordps. will observe that by this Act ye majority of the Assembly
are to nominate such agent and to levy money for his support
and a Committee of them even in the interval of ye Session as
well as ye Assembly when sitting are to give such directions and
informations to ye said Agent as they shall think fitt ; by which
means the Governor and Councill are excluded from giveing him
any information or directions. This wants noe further remark,
only I must beg leave to inform your Lordps. that the private
designe of ye promoters of that Act was to put into that office
one Coll. Lodwick mercht. at London, whose letters to John
D'Peyster have beene dropt in the streets, and copys thereof
sent to most of ye countys since my arrival here in order to
obstruct the settleing of a revenue, and I must affirm to your
Lordps. that that gentleman's meddleing in the affairs of this
Province has beene of ill consequence to H.M. interests here at
this time, (iii.) An Act for restraining ye bringing of any personal
action in the Supream Court in this Colony under the value of 20.
The Committee of Councill being informed by ye Cheife Justice
that in England the restriction is only to 40<s., and being in some
suspense as to that matter have thought fitt not to make any
report of it this Session. I have received a petition from the
merchts. of this place representing the inconveniencies and dangers
to their trade which must follow upon the new order of the Lords
of ye Admiralty for victualling and cleaneing H.M. ships appointed
for the service of this Province at Boston in New England, by
which means they conceive they will be intirely deprived of that
security to their trade intended by the service of those ships,
and indeed the passage is soe long between these two places and
their returne soe uncertaine that wee can propose but little
use of them to ourselves whilst under these orders, of which I
have also acquainted the Lords of the Admiralty. Col. Quary's
letter will sufficiently inform your Lordps. of very black practices
lately perpetrated in Pensilvania by one Parks master of the
ship St. John Baptist under the patronage of the Government
there. I remember well that last yeare whilst I was there, I was
told by many that that ship was impudently loading provision
for Petit Guave, tho' she entered and cleared for Jamaica, she
performed her voyage to that French port, took in a cargoe there
for Old France, but returned with it to Pensilvania. The Collec-
tor of New Castle in Pensilvania made seizure of her for tradeing
with H.M. enemies but was forcibly disseized by the Sherriffe
of that County, Coll. French, to whom the sloop which she brought
with her was consigned by Park in case she should loose company.
My repeated advices to the Lieut. Governor of that province
togeather with ye opinions of the best lawyers in these parts cold
not prevaile with him to seize Parks and his associates and send
them to England for their tryal as ye Act of Parliament against
forreign treasons directs, but all was smother'd in a country
Court, which acquitted ye traitors, condemned ye vessells and
goods, and awarded them their wages out of ye produce thereof ;
Before this sham try all at ye repeated instances of Coll. Quarry
Wt. 26089. C.P. 13.
194 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
I sent H.M.S. the Lowstnffe, Capt. Gordon Commander, with
generall orders to seize on his cruize all such persons, their goods
and effects, as had maintained any traiterous correspondence
or trade with the enemy, who accordingly seized the said ship
and sloop in Delaware River, and brought them to this port,
all the goods being unloaded by Col. French before he came, by
these meanes H.M. is defrauded of a cargoe to ye value of 8000,
and a door opened to all such treasonable trade for the future
in these parts, if noe method be found to bring these malefactors
to condign punishment. As to the Palatins, I acquainted your
Lordps. that I had imployed 300 of them in the land service
under Col. Nicholson's command by H.M. order. Upon their
returne to Albany, I there disarmed them again, as I did also
the country troops before I disbanded them, they have since
used some artifices and made some false allarums in order to
induce me to restore their arms but to noe purpose, they are
planted where they are covered every way, and whilst they are
armed they are ungovernable, 'tis with much concerne that I
must aquaint your Lordps. that what from the instigations of
their ill neighboiirs, what from the natural turbulencey of their
temper I find it hard to keep the generality of them to their duty
and the terms of their contract without force. The work is
however in as great forwardness as the time would allow, 100,000
trees ready for the manufacture next fall and 10,000 for this
spring, the magazine is up, the bridges and roads made ; and in a
word everything ready for making the great essay, but to make
all sure I humbly offer to your Lordps. that H.M. be addressed
to signifye under her royall hand that she expects from them the
performance of the terms of their contract, and further that in
regard there are two forts now actually a building in the Indian
country by her orders, and that the number of regular troops here
is much too small for these five garrisons, she would be pleased
to augment them to the number of a Brittish batalion at least,
and form them into a regiment, the independencey creating
confusion, by these meanes our garrisons dureing ye warr will be
more secure, the Palatins more easily kept to their duty, and ye
work be carryed on dureing a peace if need require without
them by makeing an allowance to the soldiers of l'2d. per day
extraordinary for working days only. I acquainted your Lordps.
how basely Mr. Bridger has endeavour'd to betray this service,
he has since wrote to me that it was not by his own will that he
absented himselfe, he best knows whose will determined him to
soe black a purpose ; his practices with relation to ye Queen's
woods by the report of all honest and impartiall men acquainted
with that matter, has beene equally vicious, however the Governor
of New England has thought fitt to baulk that inquirey by appoint-
ing his confederates as I am informed for his inquisitors. Of
which proceedings some gentlemen of New England have suffici-
ently informed my Lord High Treasurer. Mr. Richard Sackett
who has the direction of the tarr work and understands it much
better has never left it since he enter 'd upon it, but by indefatig-
able labour and industry has brought matters to bear a better
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 195
1712.
face than formerly and well deserves a reward to which I humbly
recommend him. I have as yet noe notice of the payment of any
of my bills for the subsistance of that people, notwithstanding
which I proceed to imploy all ye creditt I am master of for that
purpose in the manner that I am directed by H.M. instructions
judging it impossible that this soe universaly beneficiall project
should be dropt when it is carryed on soe farr and in soe fair a
way. Encloses a copy of Transactions with the Indians. All
is quiet at present upon the frontiers, but soon after the returne
of our troops to Albany a party of about 20 French Indians fell
upon two farm houses, murdered two men a boy and a woman
and two soldiers, and two small children, but lost three of their
own number of men in the action, after which they set fire to
the houses and run away. Signed, Ro. Hunter. Endorsed,
Reed. April 10, Read June 3, 1712. 12| pp. Enclosed,
251. i. Address of the Council of New York to Council of
Trade and Plantations. Dec. 13, 1711. Wee have all
along conceived hopes from ye great prudence and
equall administration of our Governor, that ye Assembly
would at last be brought to settle a revenue for ye
support of Government as formerly, wch. is ye reason
we have not presumed to trouble your Lordps. with our
thoughts on the sad state of affairs here, but finding
our expectations frustrated, we should be unfaithfull
to ye trust H.M. has been pleased to honor us with to be
any longer silent in a case which so much requires our
applicacon and at a time when by a too long neglect of
proper remedys ye officers of ye Governmt. are languish-
ing and H.M. interest lyes gasping. We therefore
humbly represent to your Lordps. that ye Revenue
by which H.M. Governmt. here has been supported
ever since it was imediately under ye Crowne expired
the 18th of May, 1709 ; that H.E. our present Governor
has done all that it was possible for man to do to win ye
Assembly to sittle an honourable support of Governmt.,
but all the faints they have made towards it have been
to pass some bills in a very new and unusuall manner
for levying money, which if they would raise ye summes
it was pretended, or if those summes would come within
any manner of prospect of answering ye exigencies of
Governmt. ye nature of the bills themselves was such as
is very unprecedented and which we could not pass
without departing from our duty, we shall give [?/]our
Lordps. instances in some of these bills, and crave leave
to make a few remarks upon them, and they shall be
only those of this session, because we find H.E. has
acquainted yr. Lordps. with their proceedings of the
last yeare. The first is a bill for levying a duty on chim-
neys and a poll, by which ye money thereby intended
to be raised is given to H.M. towards ye support of the
Government and is directed to be paid to ye Treasurer
of ye Colony, who is not thereby made accountable to
196 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
anybody, ye Councill amended it by leaving out ye
word Treasurer throughout ye Bill, and making ye
money payable to ye Receiver General (as has been ye
practice with respect to money given for ye support of
Government) and making him accountable to H.M. to
ye Governor and Councill, and likewise to ye Assembly,
which latter tho' it be a concession never before granted
to the Assembly for money for support of Governmt.,
we yet ventured to give them that we might thereby
remove their objection of ye misapplication of the
Revenue. The next is a Bill for laying a further duty on
ye tonnage of vessells and on slaves, and for repealing ye
Acts heretofore made relating to those dutys. By this
Act the Assembly intended that all vessells not wholly
own'd by ye inhabitants of this Province should pay
ye tonnage, but by mistake they had subjected all
vessells wholly owned by ye inhabitants of this Province
to those dutys, which we amended, ye money intended
to be raised by this bill is given to H.M. towards ye
support of ye Government and directed to be paid to
ye Treasurer of this Colony, and to be collected by an
officer of the Assembly's appointing and named in ye
Bill who is thereby obliged to give security to ye Speaker
a thing never before heard of, this we thought likewise
of such consequence that we amended it by declaring
ye Receiver Generall to be ye proper officer for collecting
it by obliging him to give security to H.M., and by
directing ye money to be issued pursuant to H.M.
Instructions. By this Bill likewise ye officer for collect-
ing ye dutys was made accountable to ye Governor
and Assembly without taking any notice of ye Councill,
this also we amended, making him accountable to ye
Governor, Councill and Assembly. These bills with ye
amendments which we herewith lay before your Lord-
ships, being sent back to ye Assembly, we expected they
would either have agreed to ye amendments, or else
that they would have signifyed their disagreement in
such manner as might have lead us by proper conferences
into ye debate of the reasonableness of them, but
instead of that they returned those two bills with a
message that their house is well assured ye Councill
cannot but be sufficiently informed of ye undoubted
right and constant resolves of their house not to admit
of any amendmts. to be made by us to money bills ;
this message put an end to our first expectations, and
obliged us to think of some measures for asserting our
right which they thus call is question. Accord-
ingly we drew up some reasons for our insisting on that
right which we sent to them and which your Lordships
will receive. To these reasons the Assembly sent us
an answer, enclosed. So that neither of the bills are
past. Your Lordps. we believe will find something
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 197
1712.
very new and extraordinary in this answer of ye As-
sembly, first that it calls in question any share we have
in ye legislacon which is given us by ye Queen's com-
mission that gives this Province ye indulgence of an
Assembly, and we believe it is ye first, and hope it will
be ye last instance of this kind. In next place it starts
a notion of the Assembly having an inherent right to
dispose of the freemen's money. We pretend no right
to dispose of their money without ye Assembly, and
that ye freemen can't be divested (as the Assembly call
it) of their property without their consent, all that we
insist on is ye right we have to amend money bills, and
that we have such a right your Lordships have formerly
given your opinion to ye then Lord Cornbury, when he
was our Governor, and there never was so great occasion
as now to exert it, seing we are about to be deprived of
it by a very illegicall conclusion. We shall say nothing
to what ye Assembly mention of yr. Lordships' opinion,
for it wants not our assistance, as to ourselves we beg
leave to assure your Lordps., that in this particular and
in all others it will be ever had in ye greatest esteem by
us, and to your Lordps. we do with great chearfullness
submit these our proceedings. These two are all ye
bills past by ye Assembly this session for giving money
for support of Governmt., and are th& first since H.E.'s
arrivall wherein ye money intended to be raised is
declared to be for that use. We therefore beg your
Lordps.' patience whilst we say a few words in generall
concerning our amendments, etc. The practice here
(and we believe in H.M. other plantations) being to
give money generally for ye support of Government,
such money has been made payable by ye Acts that
gave it to ye Receiver Generall who is H.M. officer, the
Assembly notwithstanding have by these bills directed
it to be paid to ye Treasurer of the Colony who is their
officer for money raised for extraordinary uses and not
for ye support of Governmt. ; we thought it our duty not
to give way to an innovation so little agreeable as we
conceive to H.M. Instructions and her prerogative of
appointing her own officers for ye receiveing her money
and therefore we made the amendments of this kind.
Some time after these two bills were sent up to us by
the Assembly, they sent us two others, one for ye Treasur-
er to pay to H.E. 8025 ounces of plate, by which bill they
direct the money to be paid to H.E. the Governor or his
order for firewood and candles for the garrisons at New
York and Albany, an Indian interpreter and for a smith
to reside among the Indians and other support of
Government untilJune 13, 1712, by which the summe
is appropriated to those particular uses. The other,
for sundry summes to be paid by ye Treasurer, whereby
there is soe much appropriated to severall officers of
I'JS COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
the Government and soe much to ye Governor for
extraordinary uses. These likewise being bills of a very
unusual and extraordinary nature wee could not
consent to them in the termes wee received them,
apprehending the ill consequences that would flow from
thence, some of which wee conceive are that ye Assembly
intending H.E. should have noe more then 1000 a
yeare this country money for his sallary, wee should by
our concurrence with ye Assembly as much as in us lay,
question H.M. undoubted right to appoint such sallaries
as she thinks convenient for her officers. In ye next
place (if this concession be drawne into practice) the
officers will become subservient to ye pleasure of those
who pay them, and by the same rule they are retrenched
this year ; the same method may be pursued from yeare
to yeare till at last they have nothing left but the name
of an office to subsist them. However the Assembly
pretending they had money in their Treasurer's hands,
which they were willing to apply to the support of
Government, wee were willing to goe with them what
lengths wee could, and therefore consented to those
bills with the amendments which your Lordships will
receive in them hopeing by this meanes they might be
brought to provide for the deficiences, but this gave
noe satisfaction, the Assembly called them money bills,
and resolved not to admitt of any amendment, soe
that they remaine unpast and ye Government without
a shilling to support it. It is with great greife that wee
are constrained to represent ye miserable state of H.M.
Government here to your Lordps. Yet ye duty wee
owe H.M. and ye obligation of our oaths oblige us to
speak at this time, etc. This Government has beene
without any support ever since H.E. Col. Hunter's
arrival, whose justice and prudent administration, if
there were noe other consideration have deserved a
quite different treatment. Wee have done all that has
layne in our power to procure a support of Government,
but wee have noe hopes that by any arguments of ours
wee shall obtaine what wee soe much desire. Your
Lordps. will easily beleive it is very greivous to us to
see ye Government in this deplorable condition, and
we tremble to think of what worse consequences may
ensue if some proper remedys may be not speedilly
applyed. To your Lordps. therefore wee address our-
selves to make known to H.M. the state of her Govern-
ment here. Wee shall give your Lordps. one instance
more of ye Assembly's preemptoriness not to admitt
of any amendment to money bills. And it is in the
Bill for paying the arreares due to ye forces late raised in
the County of Suffolk for ye expedition against Canada,
in 1709, whereby ye money is not given to H.M. her
heires etc., the Councill amended that, but the Assembly
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 1<J9
1712.
had recourse to their former resolve not to admitt of
tiny amended to money bills, tho' they know H.M. lately
rejected one of their Acts for raiseing 600 for ye City
of New York because it was not given to H.M., her
heires and successors. Soe that bill is not past. Wee
shall not take up so much of your Lordps.' time as to
enter into any argument for this our right to make
amendments to money bills. Your Lordps. who best
know them have already given your opinion therein,
and you will by these papers see what the practice
has been which ye Assembly doe not nor can denye.
Wee desire therefore that ye determination of tin's
dispute betweene us may be signifyed in such a manner
as may put an end to it. Thus much for the bills.
Wee beg'g your Lordps.' patience a little longer whilst
wee take some notice of two resolves of the Assembly
of Nov. 24th last, the very day they were pleased to
adjourn -themselves on till the first Thursday in Aprill
next. H.E. did some time since with the advice of ye
Councill, and the great necessity the Province was in of
such a Court, open the Court of Chancery, himselfe
being Chancellor by ye delivery of ye scales as ye
majority of ye Councill were of opinion. The Assembly
ye last day of their sitting resolved that ye erecting a
Court of Equity without consent in Generall Assembly
is contrary to law without precedent, and of daingerous
consequence to ye liberty and property of ye subject.
Whereupon it may be observed that H.M. has given to
ye Governour by her Commission full power and
authority with the advice and consent of ye Councill
to erect, constitute and establish such and soe many
courts of Judicature and publick justice within this
province as ye Governor and Councill shall think fitt
and necessary for the heareing and determining of all
causes as well criminall as civill according to law and
equity, which your Lordps. were pleased to observe to
H.E. June 29th. If therefore the first part of this
resolve be true, H.M. has given to ye Governor and
Councill power by her said Commission to doe that
which by law she cold not ; but if H.M. can lawfully
give such a power, then wee shall be proud to forget
that ever a resolve of this kind was past by a people
soe graciously distinguished in many instances of H.M.
princely favour. It is not without precedent that a
Court of Chancery has beene erected in this province
without consent in Generall Assembly, and if the
erecting of it without their consent be lawfull, wee
are very well assured that it will not be attended with
any daingerous consequences. The other resolve is,
that the establishing fees without consent of ye Generall
Assembly is contrary to law. The power of establishing
of fees is likewise given to ye Governor with ye advice
200
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Jan. 1.
New York.
Jan. 3.
Boston.
and consent of the Councill, not only by an article in
H.M. Generall Instructions, but likewise by a particular
and additional! Instruction grounded upon H.M. re-
jecting an Act of Assembly past here in 1709 for regulat-
ing and establishing fees. If then H.M. can lawfully
give such a power, what must these resolves meane ?
Signed, Sam. Staats, Robt. Walter, G. Beekman, Rip
Van Dam, Caleb Heathcote, John Barbaric, Tho.
Byerley. Endorsed as preceding. Copy. 10^ pp.
251. ii., iii. Copy of proceedings of the Council and Assembly
of New York relating to money bills, Nov. 1711. En-
dorsed, Reed. April 10, 1712. 2 pp.
251. iv.-xv. Copy of 5 Bills of New York with the Council's
amendments. Endorsed as preceding. 24 pp.
251. xvi.-xviii. Copy of three bills of New York with Col.
Hunter's remarks. Endorsed as preceding. 6pp. [C.O.
5, 1050. Nos .45, 45 i. xviii. ; and (witliout enclosures]
5, 1123. pp. 1 18 ; and (covering letter and enclosure
i. only] 5, 1091. Nos. 58, 61 ; and (duplicates] 59, 64.]
252. Governor Hunter to the Earl of Dartmouth. I know
I am troublesom but know noe remedy, were my private interests
only at stake, though I have done nothing to forfeit my claime
to a share in that protection yr. Lordps. has ever afforded the
distressed, I would suffer in silence, but now that H.M. interests
in this province seem to be at ye last gasp, and all efforts on this
side fruitless, my silence would be criminall, and an unexcusable
breach of the trust repos'd in me. Refers to preceding letter and
enclosure. The unhappy miscarriage of ye intended expedition
agst. Canada has occasioned also the inclosed address to H.M.
from ye Councill and Assembly of this Province, to which I
humbly intreat your Lor dp. will be pleased to procure access.
Signed, Ro. Hunter. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1091. Nos. 62 ; and (dupli-
cate) 66.]
253. Lt. Gov. Vetch to the Earl of Dartmouth. Refers
to former letters. This comes more particularly with relation to
a company of Indians which I proposed to General Hill to compose
a part of the garison of Annapolis Roy all : who would be of
greater use and service then double their number of Brittish
troops. I gave your Lordship the trouble of the coppy of my
letter to General Hill togither with his to me approving the same,
and ordring me to detain one of the New England companys of
Indians att Annapolis untill another company should be raised
by Major Livingston, but the ship in which both companys of
Indians were lost the convoy and runn away to Boston (as did
severalls of the transeports who had part of our garison aboard)
and before Generall Hill's letters or mine to Colonel Dudley to
acquaint him of the same could reach him they were all disbanded
and dispersed : as Generall Nicholson cann more fully inform your
Lordship : however finding Major Livingston here att my arrivall
and by severall accounts from prisoners that came from Canada of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
201
1712.
Jan. 3.
Boston.
Jan. f
Riga.
Jan. 4.
St. James's.
Jan. 4.
Whitehall.
Jan. 9.
Whitehal.
the Frenchs and Indians from thence designing to disturb the
garison of Annapolis Roy all, I immediately dispatched him with
a commission to raise a company of Indians, to be upon the
establishment of said garison as Generall Hill had directed, arid
wrote to the severall Governours to assist him etc., the which
being now allmost compleated will be ready to embarke here :
as soon as the season of the year will allow them, which is now
very seveer. The company consists of 58 officers and men.
The officers have been in pay since the beginning of November
etc. Prays that the company may be upon a setled establish-
ment, and if the garison be formed into a regiment, that it may
be incorporated into it, and that meantime the bills drawn for
their pay may be punctually payed, etc., etc. Signed, Sam.
Vetch. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 104 ; and (duplicate) 104 (i).]
254. Col. Tailer to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Col. Dudley
treats me with all respect, and has given me the post my pre-
decessor had. Since my arrivall I reed. H.E.'s commands for
the reviewing our frontiers, and to put them in a poster of defence,
wch. I have don'. I must begg leave to remind your Lordship
of Mr. Secretary Granvill's report referring to my pay, for I
have never reed, one farthing, etc. Signed, William Tailer.
2 pp. [C.O. 5, 898. No. 23.]
255. Mr. Whitworth to Mr. Popple. Reply to Nov. 13. In
tliis country little or no tar is made, nor in Prussia, but as soon
as ever I get to Petersburgh, I shall send the most particular
accounts I can procure, etc. Signed, C. Whitworth. Endorsed,
Reed. 13th. Read 25th Feb., 17||. \ p. [C.O. 5, 1050. No.
36 ; and 5, 1122. pp. 488, 489.]
256. Memorandum of Warrant for Thomas Maxwell to be
of the Council of Barbados. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 116.]
257. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Edward Hyde having given the usual security as
Governor of Carolina, etc., we enclose draught of Instructions for
H.M. signature, being to the like effect as those given to all
Proprietors on similar occasions. Autograph Signatures, i p.
Annexed,
257. i. Instructions to the Lords Proprietors of Carolina.
[C.O. 5, 1292. pp. 335371 ; and (without enclosure)
5, 306. No. 5.]
258. Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Popple. " The Commissioners
for taking the public accounts having by their precept directed
me to lay before them from time to time the accounts of H.M.
Plantation Revenues under my audit," requests delivery of
accounts brought home by Major General Handasyd. Signed,
Wm. Blathwayt. Endorsed, Reed. Read Jan. 11, 17 \\. 1 p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 59 ; and 138, 13. p. 378.]
202
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Jan. (I.
St. James'*.
Jan. JO.
St. James's.
.Ian. 11.
\Yl.itehal.
Jan. 12.
Whitehall.
Jan. 14.
Whitehall.
Jan. 15.
Jan. 15.
Whitehall.
Jan. 18.
259. H. M. Warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General to
prepare a bill appointing William Cock Secretary of Virginia,
and revoking that of Eclmond Jennings. Countersigned, Dart-
mouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 116, 117.]
260. Order of Queen in Council. The Council of Trade and
Plantations are to examine and report how far Major Douglas
hath complyed with his Instructions relating to the murther of
Governor Parke, etc. Signed, Edward Southwell. Endorsed,
Reed. Read Jan. 15, 17f|. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 0. No. 93 ; and
153, 11. p. 414.]
261 . Mr. Popple to Wm. Blathwayt. In reply to Jan. 9th,
encloses copies of accounts of H.M. Revenue of Jamaica 1709
1711. [C.O. 138, 13. pp. 379, 380.]
262. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Refers following for their report. Signed, Dart-
mouth. p. Enclosed,
262. i. Petition of John Frere to the Queen. Prays to be
restored to his precedency in the Council of Barbados,
the name of Timothy Salter, though appointed sub-
sequently having been by mistake inserted before his
in the list of Councillors. 1 p.
202. ii. Certificate from Ld. Dartmouth's office that John
Frere was appointed some months before Timothy
Salter in 1709. Signed, C. Delafaye. f p. The whole
endorsed, Reed. 15th, Read 17th Jan., 17]4. [C.O.
28, 13. Nos. 79, 80, 80a. ; and 29, 12. 'pp. 398400.]
263. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Re-
commend John Wentworth to be of the Council of New Hamp-
shire in the place of Winthrop Hilton, etc. [C.O. 5, 913. p.
369.]
264. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I have no objection in point of law or otherwise
to the Act of Barbadoes to dock the entail of certain lands, etc. in
the parish of St. Philip and to vest the same in Benjamin Chapman,
planter, in fee simple (v. Nov. 2, 1711.) Signed, Ed. Northey.
Endorsed, Reed. 10th (sic) Read 29th Jan., 17}1. | p. [C.O.
28, 13. No. 82 ; and 29, 12. p. 404.]
265. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Enclose addresses from the Council and Assembly of
Jamaica (v. Oct. 18, 1711) to be laid before H.M. Autograph
signatures. 1 p. [C.O. 137, 46. No. 2 ; and 138, 13. p. 383.]
266. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I have perused the Act of Barbadoes, to render
more effectual certain legacies bequeathed by Capt. Williams to
the parish of Christ Church (v. Nov. 2, 1711), and am humbly of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 203
1712.
opinion that the same is not fit to be confirmed, for that the
occasion of passing the bill being to capacitate the Churchwardens
of the said parish to take an assignment of lands, which they
could not take without the help of an Act, not being a Corporation,
and for which purpose the Act was reasonable, this Act does
enact that all purchasers under the Churchwardens of the land
so to be conveyed to them by the Serjeant-at-arms, who had
seized the lands pursuant to a decree of the Court of Chancery
there, shall hold and enjoy the same against the heirs, exors.
admors. and assignes of Capt. John Williams, who by the act is
stated to have devised a charity of 600 to that parish, and the
Churchwardens whereof had obtained a decree against Richard
Williams, his admor. with his will annexed for payment of the
same. On which decree lands of inheritance of the said John
Williams had been seized, which I take to be unjust, for that it
does not appear that the testator had charged his real estate
with that legacy, and for that the heir of the testator was not
made a party in that suit, and has a right to controvert that
matter. And also for that the purchaser under the Church-
wardens are enacted to hold and enjoy against the assignes of
John Williams, which will make void the mortgages, conveyances
and settlements made by the testator in his life time. Signed,
Ed. Northey. Endorsed, Reed. 22nd, Read 29th Jan., 17}|.
1? PP- [C-O. 28, 13. No. 81 ; and 29, 12. pp. 402, 403.]
Jan. 19. 267. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
St. Jago de la and Plantations. By this opportunity of the Anglesea man of
Vega. wafj (kh e g rs t na ^ nas of[ er 'd s in ce my last, a duplicate whereof
goes herewith inclosed) I transmit to your Lordps. the rest of
the Acts past the last Assembly, together with the Votes of the
Assembly, Minutes of Council, etc. Your Lordships will observe
the usual supplies given, and the sum of 5000 appropriated to
the Revenue, which has not been obtain'd without some difficulty,
tho' it be calculated but to answer the occasions of the ensuing
year. This being an extraordinary demand, makes me think
it necessary to acquaint your Lordships from what circumstances
I apprehend it to have proceeded ; and in order to that I have
already informed you, that at my arrival here, I found a Treasury
(if 3000 per annum deserves that name) not only exhausted but
in debt, the Queen's House and all publick buildings in a ruinous
condition, to that degree that less than 2000 has been computed,
would not suffice for repair of the Queen's House alone. But,
my Lords, not to mention these extraordinary occasions, I
confess it has been some surprize to me to find that by the com-
putation of the annual debursements out of the Revenue, they
very near amount to double its incomes ; as your Lops, may
observe under particular heads in the Journal of the Council :
and this will lay me under a necessity of expecting continual
assistances from the Assembly : nor can I well conceive how the
Revenue here is to be improved. The Quit-rents (I am affraid)
are ill collected ; but am told there is no way of ascertaining them
better, without a general survey, which would be of more charge
204 , COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
than profit. The escheats, which were a considerable branch
formerly, are by the Act for quieting possessions pretty much
abated in number ; and these that are found, since H.M. positive
Instructions to the late Governor not to grant them untill applica-
tion had been first made to your Lops, remain in the possession
of such persons as have prosecuted them to judgement in the
Queen's name, without any application at all for grants for them,
contenting themselves with the possession, not so much as paying
the quit-rent for them, where they are of land, and the value
found by the jury, as well as the quit-rent, is by this means
lost to the Revenue. Your Lops, may easily conceive, I looke
upon this to be an abuse, and expect that I'll endeavour to
remedie it, which I have not hitherto been able to do, tho' I
have given assurances I would recommend no person to your
Lops, for the favour of such grants, but those who had discover'd
them, and been at the charge of the prosecutions : and indeed
unless that be a rule, I must take the liberty to acquaint your
Lops, no such discoveries will be made. As to the other Acts
past, I humbly recommend them to your Lops, as fit for H.M.
approbation : that for excluding Members of the Council or
Assembly being Commissioners on publick funds, I hope may
have the desired effect : and indeed I find we are too apt in this
warm climate to fall into heats and animosities on the most
triffling occasions, not to think it expedient to remove all that's
possible. That with respect to orphans and executors I am
perswaded will sufficiently recommend itself to your Lops,
patronage, as an Act that will give as much satisfaction to the
merchants in Great Britain, as to the generality of this Island.
The other concerning fowling and fishing, your Lops, won't
think of consequence enough to be refused ; as carrying with it
no great prejudice, if little good. The close of this session, I
first gave them a short prorogation, and a little time after,
prorogued them further, tUl Aug. 1st, when I intend they shall
meet to do business. I have made it my business since to inform
myself more particularly of the state of the Island, and to visite
the most considerable parts of it ; and am very [? sorry} to be
obliged to tell you that I have found it in a much worse condition
than I could possibly have expected. The fortifications that
are, are slight, ill contrived and out of repair : to these I have
already given orders both for repairs and some new additions,
of which I will give your Lordps. at another occasion, a particular
accot., with the plans thereof. The want of inhabitants is not
so easily remedied, and this misfortune has received a considerable
addition by the late mortality that has been here ; But at present
the Island is again become more healthy. The Regiment here is
very much reduced, not having for a considerable time past any
supply of recruits come to it ; and one half of the officers are
absent from their duty. All this is attended with a great dearth
and scarcity of provisions, having had no supplies thereof from
Europe for several months past. Some negroes said to have been
provided, have committed the greatest of villainies in murdering
their mistress and attempting further mischief ; some have been
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 205
1712.
brought to condign punishment, several have escaped, and I
have ordered a party after them : I wish these necessities may
not occasion others to follow their example ; if the cause, which
is to be fear'd should remain : so that in all respects this Island
is at present weak and in a bad condition. I think it my duty
to acquaint your Lops, that a privateer of this Island having
some time ago taken a vessel bound for the Havanah, wherein
the Governor, President and Captain General of the Spanish
coast of St. Domingo happen'd to be passenger ; designing from
thence to Old Spain ; I detain'd him upon account of H.M.
subjects that are kept prisoners at Lima, concerning whom I had
the Secretary of State's directions before I left England. I take
this to be a favourable occasion for reclaiming them, and in order
thereto, I have caus'd him write to the Vice-Roy of Peru and
President of Panama (to whom I have also written on the same
occasion) that he is detained by way of reprizal, for these prisoners,
till I am assured that they are set at liberty : and concluding the
effect of these letters will be the same as if he were longer kept
here, I have with the unanimous advice of the Council, sent him
on board a man of war bound home with this Fleet. I likewise
send another prisoner which I must particularly mention to
your Lops., that is, one Nicholas Gualtier, concerning whom I
must referr your Lordps. to the opinion and advice I have received
of the Council, as you will see the same at large towards the
latter end of the Minutes of Council herewith sent. It is by the
unanimous advice of the Council that I dispose of him thus ; and
not suffer him to go to Curacao, under the pretence of being a
naturalized subject of Holland, according to the prayer of his
petition. As this might possibly be a national dispute, it deserved
all the deliberation it was capable of ; and I hope your Lops, will
be of opinion it has had it. I am pers waded I need not trouble
your Lordps. with a repetition of what I wrote formerly, touching
the relief of those aggrieved by the bonds given for the duties on
prize goods. As for news from these parts, what follows is all
I can acquaint your Lops, of at present. There is advice from
the Havanah of the latter end of November last, that the quick-
silver ships were arrived there from La Vera Cruze, and that the
late Vice-Roy of New-Spain (the Duke of Albekirk) is on board
them ; and that the Duke of Linaxis now governs that Kingdom
in his stead. The Barlovento Fleet was likewise arrived at
Puerto Rico or St. Domingo by this time, to pay the guarrisons
of those places. From Carthagena we hear that a packet boat
arrived there from old Spain, above two months since, with orders
to recall Don Carlos D' Suere, Lieutenant-Governor of that city,
upon some suspitions of his keeping a correspondence with the
enemies of his master ; and soon after sail'd in the said packet-
boat. The Marquis de Villa Rocha late President of Panama is
gone to Spain ; and Don Joseph de Armesago has succeeded him
in that Government. The Marquis de Castell dos Rios Vice-Roy
of Peru, died some time since, and that kingdom is govern'd now
by the Bishop of Quito, etc. P. 8. Refers to enclosures. I have
not received any of your Lordships commands since I left Eng-
206 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
land. Signed, A. Hamilton. Endorsed, Reed. May 3rd, 1712.
Read July 17th, 1713. 6 pp. Enclosed,
267. i. Exports from Jamaica, March 25, 1709 Sept. 29,
1711. Number of ships, to England, 157, Plantations,
111. Sugar, to England, hhds. 24,985. tierces 41,
barrils 156, casks 47, chests 22 ; to Plantations, 1081
hhds., 73 tierces, 341 barrils, 4 casks, 25 chests, 1 box,
6200 Ib. Sugar, clay'cl and white, to Plantations,
1 tierce, 4 loaves. Molosses, to England, 89 hhds. ;
to Plantations 13 pipes, 315 hhds., 62 tierces, 17 barrils,
4 jars. Rum, to England, 16 buts, pipes and puncheons.
12 hhds., 2 tierces, 4 barrels, 2 casks, 1000 gallons ; to
Plantations, 105 buts, pipes and puncheons, 65 hhds.,
105 tierces, 31 barrels, 39 casks, 12,890 gallons, 4 gross
bottles. Lime juice. To England, 2 puncheons, 43
hhds., 10 tierces, 22 barrels, 63 casks ; to Plantations,
2 puncheons, 8 hhds., 15 tierces, 6 barrels, 23 casks.
150 gallons. Piemento, to England, 32 pipes, 207 hhds.,
54 tierces ; to Plantations, 7 tierces. Cocoa, to England,
41 pipes, 189 hhds., 42 tierces, 100 barrels, 557 casks,
1804 seroons, 440 bags, 8000 Ib. to Plantations, 12
pipes, 6 hhds., 26 tierces, 33 barrels, 50 casks, 121
seroons, 84 bags, 50 Ib. Indico, to England, 5 tierces,
S58 barrels, 548 casks, 1 box ; to Plantations, 12 barrels,
5 casks, 2 boxes, 6 bags, 290 Ib. Mad-era, to Plantations,
354 pipes, Canary, 32. Sarsaparilla, to England, 1
hhd., 1 cask, 212 bales, 800 bags, 16 bundles, 18 boxes,
16000 Ib. Cinamon, to England, 7| tuns, 1 fat, 2 hhds.,
1 barril, 10 bales, 342 bags, 3 chests, 2200 Ib. Piemento,
to England, 329| barrels, 364 casks, 70 bags, 5000 Ib. ;
to Plantations, 25| barrels, 16 casks, 4 bags, 180 Ib.
CaskariUa, to England, 3 casks, 4 seroons, 4 cases.
Ghana Root, to England, 15 bags. Tortois- shell, to
England, 1 hhd., 7 barrels, 8 casks, 1 box. Vigonia
wool, to England, 2 hhds., 1 tierce. 72 bags. Spanish
wool, to England, 99 bags. Logwood, to England,
898i tuns, 3075 Ib. ; to Plantations, 6 tuns. Fustic,
to England, 1188 tuns, 580 sticks, 2400 Ib. ; to Plan-
tations, 281 tuns, 2300 Ib. Logwood and fustick mixed,
to England, 38 tuns. Lignum-vitae, to England, 1880
Ib. ; to Plantations, 6 tuns, 2300 Ib. Camwood, to
England, 25 tuns, 1505 sticks. Mohogony wood, to
England, 2200 feet, Nicorogo wood, 52 tuns, Stockfish
wood, 14 tuns. Manchaneel, to Plantations, 212 feet.
Hyppocuana, to England, 1 barrel, 2 casks, 19 seroons.
Cortex Winterania, to England, 20 cases, 104 bags,
1400 Ib. Cortex citerania, to England, 1 bag. Jesuits
bark, to England, 8 chests, 6 boxes. Snuff, to England,
65 barrels, 35 casks. Furs, to England, 5 hhds., 7
cases. Aneta, to England, 2 casks, 1 seroon. Spanish
tobacco, to England, 10 hhds., 52 packs ; to Plantations,
3785 Ib, Malagete, to England, 49 buts, 1800 Ib.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 207
1712.
Balsom, to England, 1 barrel. Ebony, 13 tuns. Choco-
late, to Plantations, 1 barrel. Cotton, to England,
2210 bags ; to Plantations, 200 bags. Ginger, to Eng-
land, 7552 bags ; to Plantations, 153 bags. Elephants
teeth, to England, 6517. Cassia fistula, 3 tierces. Hides,
to England, 4452 ; to .Plantations, 130. Sides of
Leather, to Plantations, 40. Pitch, to England, 10
barrils ; to Plantations, 1 barril. Negroes, to Plan-
tations, 947. Indian slaves, 4. Salt, to Plantations,
1500 bushels. Brandy, 10 quarter casks, Hungary
water, 33 bottles, flour, 361 barrils, and a few other small
items. Endorsed as preceding. 2 pp.
207. ii. Imports to Jamaica, March 25, 1709 Sept. 29,
1711. Number of ships, from Great Britain, 104;
from Plantations, 207. The imports consist chiefly of
provisions (beef, flour, beer, wine, butter, cheese, fish,
pork, etc), timber, elephants' teeth, sarsaparilla, pitch, tar
and 11 ,137 negroes, by separate traders. Same endorse-
ment. 1 p. [C.O. 137, 10. Nos. 6, 6 i., ii. ; find
(trltftout enclosures) 138, 13. pp. 440 450.]
Jan. 19. 268. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Earl of Dartmouth.
St. Jago do la I need not trouble your Lop. with a repetition of what I wrote
(Oct. 18) in relation to the Governor of the Spanish coast of St.
Domingo ; etc., etc. In the minutes of the Council, now trans-
mitted to the Lords Commissioners of Trade, the following
character is given of the said Governor, vizt., that he is a person
intirely in the interest of France, and a creature of the French
Court ; that, by a letter of his formerly intercepted, it appeared
he had endeavour'd to inveigle several Irish Papists settled in
H.M. Colonies ; alleadging it was for their interest to desert tho
tyranny these Heretick Dogs exercis'd over them; with some other
indecent expressions. Your Lop. will see among his papers, a
particular printed accot. of his name, family, titles and preten-
sions at the Court of Spain, by a full enumeration of his services,
etc. He was designing from the Havannah for old Spain, to
answer to some complaint exhibited there against him. Repeats
concluding part of preceding . Signed, A. Hamilton. 3$pp. [C.O.
137, 51. No. 58.]
Jan. 20. 269. H.M. Licence to Thomas Hodges, Attorney General of
St. James's. Barbados, to stay 6 months longer in England, for the recovery
of his health, he appointing a deputy approved by the Governor,
etc. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 117, 118.]
Jan. 21. 270. Petition of John Collins, Governor of Newfoundland,
[1711=12?]. to the Queen. In Dec. 1708, St. John's Fort having been sur-
prized by the French, petitioner, being commander of the Militia,
raised the best force he could and attempted its relief, with
great hazard of his life. He was carried away prisoner to Placen-
tia. Commodore Taylor, Oct. 1709, appointed him Governor
and Commander in Chief of the Fort and Harbour of St. Johns,
208 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
and all the sea-coast between Ferryland and Carbonere Island,
Captain Lloyd being carried into France, and since kill'd there.
This post he has held to the general satisfaction, at his own great
charge hitherto. Prays to be allowed the Governor's pay and
to be continued in the Government. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 24. No.
12.]
[Jan. 21]. 271. (a) Address of Inhabitants of Newfoundland to the
Queen. Recommend John Collins (v. preceding] to H.M. favour.
His extraordinary vigilance in guarding and repairing the Fort
and regulating the Militia have been manifested to our entire
satisfaction etc. Signed, " by all the best inhabitants that are
masters of families." 79 signatures. 1 p. Joined to,
(b) Address of Merchants and Masters of ships trading to
Newfoundland to the Queen. Recommend John Collins to
H.M. to be confirmed in the Government of Newfoundland and
rewarded for his great expence in repairing the Fort etc. 65
signatures. Parchment. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 24. No. 7.]
Jan. 21. 272. Two Copies of above petition and addresses, with copy
of Commodore Taylor's Commission to John Collins, St. John's,
Oct. 6th, 1709. Printed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 24. Nos. 5, and (> ;
and 194, 23. No. I.]
Jan. 21. 273. Mr. Harley to Mr. Popple. Encloses following. The
Treasury Lord High Treasurer desires a report from the Council of Trade
Chambers. an( j plantations, as to the directions that were given for building
for the said house, and why they have not been complyed with,
as also their opinion whether it may be reasonable, that the said
allowance in lieu of house rent should be continued any longer,
and if so out of what the same may be satisfyed, with such other
observacons as their Lordps. shall think proper. Signed, T.
Harley. Endorsed, Reed. Jan. 21st, Read Feb. 25th, 17}?. Ad-
dressed. 1 p. Enclosed,
273. i. The Earl of Orkney to the Lord High Treasurer.
Whereas the Govnt. of Virginia ever since the settle-
ment of that Colony in the Crown have allowed 150
per annum towards the renting of a house for the
Govr., but about 4 years past the said 150 was taken
away by the late Lord Treasurer, upon the supposition
that as H.M. had recommended to the General Assembly
that a house shou'd be built by them, for the honor
of H.M. and the Govt. there, which they with great
alacrity and cheerfulness imbarked in, and have made
such advances therein that the said house is built and
cover'd, but the great disaster of the war, and the low
ebb the prices of tobacco have been at, and still continue,
and the publick Treasury of Virginia being exhausted,
the country is not in a capacity to compleat the same,
and Col. Spots wood has by his repeated letters to me
desired I wou'd lay this hardship before your Lordship.
Besides the emoluments of that Govnt. are much
1712.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
209
impaired, he is in a house which he pays rent for and
humbly prays your Lordship will permit him to reassume
the payment of the 150 out of the Govnt. there, untill
the said house be fully compleated, etc. Copy, 1% pp.
[C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 78, 78 i. ; and 5, 1363. pp. 392
394.]
Jan. 25. 274. Edward Lloyd, President of the Council of Maryland,
Maryland, to the Earl of Dartmouth. The occasion of this is to acquaint
you that on Oct. 3 last, at the provinciall Court, one Susannah
Puckham spinster, a poor unfortunate person, was try'd for the
murder of her bastard child, which she alleadged was borne dead,
and upon the character given her by her neighbours, it was the
opinion of most people at the tryall that the child was borne
dead, yet the jury pursuant to the express direction of the Stat.
21st James could not but bring her in guilty, she living at a
remote plantation, and the rest of the small family being all
absent from home at the time of her delivery, whereupon H.M.
Justices of that Court represented her to me as an object of the
Queen's mercy etc., which I humbly desire your Lordship will
represente to H.M. etc. Signed, Edwd. Lloyd. Addressed. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 720. No. 13.]
Jan. 25. 275. Same to same. Upon receipt of your Lordship's of June
Maryland. 28, 1711, with H.M. Instructions relating to the guage of hogs-
heads, I convened the Generall Assembly upon Oct. 23rd, and
recommended to them readily to obey H.M. direction in confirm-
ing the guage of their tobacco hogsheads to that now practiced
in Virginia. In complyance wherewith they have agreed to an
Act herewith transmitted, which I hope will be well approv'd of,
and prevent any further clamour on that score. They have at
the same time, and in the same Act having relation to the same
thing, endeavour'd to prevent the abuse of cropping the hogsheads
and defacing tobacco by masters of ships in their stowage, by
lying a moderate penalty upon them, when convict thereof, not
exceeding that impos'd on the planters who shall not confine
themselves within the guage now ascertayn'd. I also used all
possible endeavours to perswade them to impower some fitt
person, or persons, to act as their Agent in Great Brittain, and to
make them sencible of the necessity thereof, but without any
success, they having referr'd the. consideration thereof to the
next Session of Assembly. As to the other Laws enacted in
November, 1709, and disallowed by her most sacred Majestie,
those for regulating the Militia and lymitting officers' fees being
of the greatest consequence, pursuant to the intimation from
the Lords of Trade that they might be re-enacted by the President
(as Commander in Chief), the Councill and Assembly, they are
so re-enacted with the others of less consequence, and severall
private Acts which together with the Journalls of the Councill
and Assembly herewith transmitted. Signed, Edwd. Lloyd.
If pp. [C.O. 5, 720. No. 14.]
Wt. 26089. C.P. 14.
210
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Jan. 25.
Maryland.
Jan. 25.
Whitehall.
Jan. 27.
St. James's.
Jan. 28.
London.
Jan. 29.
276. Edwd. Lloyd to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Repeats gist of preceding. Concludes : The Assembly offer 'd at
some other laws, at this Session, which I could not believe H.M.
would approve of, and therefore thought it but prudence now in
the absence of a Governour in chief e, not to agree thereto, att
which they seemed somewhat dissatisfyed, etc. Signed, Edwd.
Lloyd. Endorsed, Reed. July 22, 1712, Read July 13, 1713.
Addressed. 2 pp. Enclosed,
276. i. Copy of Journal of Committee of Accounts of Mary-
land. Oct 23 31st, 1711. Endorsed as preceding. 24
pp. [C.O. 5, 717. Nos. 50, 50 i. ; and (without en-
closure) 5, 727. pp. 320322.]
277. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. We think it reasonable that H.M. should grant the
petition of John Frere (v. Jan. 12). [C.O. 29, 12. p. 401.]
278. H.M. Warrant to Governor Douglas. Lt. General
Walter Hamilton is to be admitted to the Councill in each and
every of the Leeward Islands where such Councils are establish't,
with authority to preside in those respective Councils in the
absence of you, or other the Captain General and Governor in
Chief of our said Islands for the time being. Countersigned,
Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 128, 129.]
279. James du Pre to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Prays for a speedy conclusion of the Board's report upon the
settlement of the Palatines at New York, etc. Signed, James du
Pre. Endorsed, Reed. Read Jan. 29, 17|J. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1050.
No. 35 ; and 5, 1122. pp. 479, 480.]
280. Duke of Leeds to the Earl of Dartmouth. Recommends
to his consideration Rev. Mr. Collins and his brother's case
(v. Jan. 21). Signed, Leeds. 2 pp. [C.O. 194, 24. No. 8.]
Jan. 31. 281. Copy of Privy Seal for the establishment of the Corn-
Westminster, mission of Trade and Plantations (Charles, Earl of Winchelsea,
Sir Philip Meadows, Robert Monckton, Sir Charles Turner,
George Baillie, Arthur Moore and Francis Gwyn.) Salaries of
1000 a year payable quarterly. 400 to the Clerks of the
Privy Council for their despatch of orders and business relating
to Trade and Plantations. 500 salary to William Popple, 100
to Adrian Drift, Deputy Secretary, 390 for seven Clerks, and
160 for doorkeepers, messengers and necessary woman. Incident
charges of the office, attested by 4 or more Commissioners, to be
paid by the Treasury (v. Dec. 17, 1711), etc. Countersigned,
Hen. Ludlow. 6i pp. [C.O. 388, 76. No. 128 ; and 389, 37.
pp. 3238.]
Jan. 31.
Whitehall.
282. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Re-
commend for confirmation the Act of Barbados to dock the entail
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
211
1712.
Jean. 31.
St. Jamos's.
Jan. 31.
St. James's.
Jan. 31.
St. James's.
[Jan. 311.
Feb. 1.
Whitehall.
Feb. 1.
Whitehall.
of certain lands in St. Philip's parish etc. (v. Jan. 15). [C.O.
29, 12. p. 405J
283. Order of Queen in Council. Approving preceding and
confirming Act of Barbados accordingly. Signed, Ja. Vernon.
Endorsed, Reed. Read June 24, 1715. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 40 ;
and 29, 13. pp. 307, 308.1
284. Order of Queen in Council. Appointing John Wentworth
to the Council of New Hampshire, in the room of Winthrop
Hilton, deed. etc. Signed, Edward Southwell. 1| pp. [C.O.
5, 11. No. 73.]
285. Duplicate of preceding. Signed, Ja. Vernon. En-
dorsed, Reed. Read June 24, 1715. 1| pp. [C.O. 5, 866. No.
45 ; and 5, 914. pp. 51, 52.]
286. William Mathew to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Son of the late Governor Sir William Mathew, petitioner
has settled in Antego, and having suffered in some sort for opposing
the late disorders there, prays to be appointed to one of the
vacancies in the Council there, etc. Signed, Reed. Jan. 31, Read
Feb. 5, \1\\. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 99; and 153, 11. p.
426.]
287. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor
Spotswood. Acknowledge letter of Oct. 15 and enclose copy of
report of Board of Ordnance re gunpowder (v. Dec. 3 and 6th,
1711), etc. We cannot but commend your diligence and conduct
in assisting the province of North Carolina and suppressing their
disorders there, which we hope will be an example to other
Governors, to do their duties if any such occasions should happen.
H.M. has appointed Messrs. Basset and Fitzhughs members of
the Council, etc. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 394, 395; and 5, 1335.
No. 168.]
288. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Dudley.
Acknowledge letter, etc., of Nov. 13. We shall expect the publick
papers, which you promise us by the mast fleet, upon the perusal
whereof we shall be able to write to you more fully. We are glad
to perceive that ye people of New England are better vers'd
than formerly in making of tar and other naval stores, and that
the quantity they make is increasing. We have represented to
H.M. that Mr. Wentworth be of the Council of New Hampshire,
and doubt not but the Agent for that Province will forward to
you by this conveyance H.M. warrant for his admission. Your
desire of small arms, powder and ball, is what we cannot at
present lay before H.M. ; for what we presume great quantities
were sent along with the late Expedition, and left in the country.
Besides you do not acquaint us with the particulars of what is
remaining, nor what is wanting, without which we cannot lay
the same before H.M. We can give no particular answer to what
212
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Feb. 1.
Whitehal.
Feb. 1.
Whitehall.
you write in relation to the division line between your Government
of the Massachusetts Bay, and the Colonies of Connecticut and
Rhode Island, for want of a true state of that matter, not having
received from those Colonies any reasons for their claim as they
acquainted you. There is indeed a petition lying before us of
Wait Winthrop and others, stiling themselves Proprietors of
that part of the Narraganset country, call'd the Mortgage Lands,
praying H.M. confirmation of their grant. But whether this be
what you hint at, we cannot yet determine for want of further
light from you, and therefore we desire you by ye first oppertunity
to let us have a full state of yt. matter. [C.O. 5, 913. pp.
370, 371.]
289. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Hunter.
Communicate Mr. Sec. Granville's letter, Dec. 21, 1711, concerning
Invalides. Continue : We have fully laid before my Lord Treas-
urer what you writ relating to the Palatins, etc., and hope that
Mr. Du Pre will be able in a short time to carry a good acct. of
that matter. We shall always be ready to do what in us lyes
to incourage and promote what may tend to the increase and
advantage of the trade of this Kingdom. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp.
480482.]
290. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. Reply to Lord Clarendon's observations concerning the
Palatines at New York. (v. Nov. 26, 1711). Refer to Instructions
based on Representations Dec. 5, 1709, etc., which seem to imply
H.M. consent to subsist the Palatines for the first year. Enclose
copy of Representation of Feb. 8, 17j- (q.v.) giving the reasons
why it was necessary to allow 15,000 a year for their subsistence
for two years. Continue : When they arrived at New York they
were in number 2227, and by the account laid before your Lordp.
Nov. 13th last, the number that had been subsisted March 26
June 24th was about 1894. We have no account from the
Governor of the application of the 10,000, which has been issued
to him, otherways than that he informs us that besides the
8000 for which he had bills over with him he had drawn other
bills for 4700, all which had been expended in settling those
people, and that he had transmitted an account thereof to the
then Lords Commissioners of the Treasury. In order to our
laying this matter more fully before your Lordship and to propose
some method how H.M. shal be repaid, we take leave to offer
that computing by the number of trees already prepar'd they
may make 30,000 barrils of tar the first year, 1713, which at
New York is 8s. sterling per barril, and will come to 12,000.
And that if H.M. shou'd be graciously pleas 'd to allow them one
moiety, it wou'd be sufficient incouragement for them to go on
with their work. And by this means H.M. wou'd be repaid in
about 6 years time. In case H.M. shal approve hereof, we are
of opinion that it will be necessary a person be appointed by H.M.
to receive the tar at New York into a storehouse to be provided
there to ship the same for this Kingdom, and to state and keep
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 213
1712.
particular accounts of the whole both in relation to the past as
future expence to be laid from time to time before your Lordship.
Upon the whole, as it does not appear to us that there has been
any mismanagement in subsisting the said Palatines by Col.
Hunter, and that his credit is very deeply ingag'd in that service,
and in consideration that the whole design of producing Naval
Stores in H.M. Dominions by the Palatines must fall and the
money already expended be intirely lost, unless they are sub-
sisted for two years, we are humbly of opinion that they be
supported in such method as your Lordship shal think proper.
[C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 482488.]
Feb. 2. 291 . Mr. Bridger to the Earl of Dartmouth. Returns thanks
Piscataqua. for favours and that he has this opportunity " to be instrumental
to the good of established church, of wch. your Lordship will be
informed by the inclosed from a people bred in schism from their
cradles, etc." Continues : They are a people of good reputation
and live well according to this country, and are the most valuable
where they live, 2 of them, vizt. Abraham Merrill and Joshua
Brown, were decons to the meeting house, but are now for the
mother and established church ; there are many more willing to
come as soon as they see the church finished, and a man of exam-
ple, learning and moderation that will instruct and lead those
people, if such a one, as I humbly joyne wth. your Lordps.' peti-
tioners, do come over. I dare say we should have more in a year
or two at our church than would go to the disenting meetings,
perticularly if H.M. will give such an allowance to the person that
comes as to support him without asking anything from the people,
tho' but for two or three years, the people here are not so biggoted
to theire own way, but to be free from the minister's tax, most of
them would be of our Church and make many free-will offerings
to the parson more than theire tax, this my Lord I know is
theire humor, nither do I know whether the Charter of New Eng-
land impowers them so far, as to lay a tax either to the building
a meeting house or paying the ministers by a law or tax raised in
H.M. name, as they now doe, and in this Province wh. is imediatly
under H.M. Governmt. the select men with the Justices of the
Peace have raised a tax in H.M. name on the people to build a
new meeting house and are now a gathering the same. I humbly
lay the same before your Lordsp., presuming it is repugnant to
the laws of Great Brittian then void of itself, yet the people suffer
by two or three obstinate men, but wth. great submition to your
Lordship say, here is no government at all, the Governor at
Boston and Leit. Governor as well, so everyone acts as he please,
here is none to apply to on H.M. behalfe, but self intrest governes
all, etc. Seeing H.M. name made use of to serve theire occasions
only, I thought it my duty to lay the same before your Lordsp.
Your petitioners are an example without president, and as it is
approved by you the church will stand or fall, and it will be
the only way to draw the schismaticall curtaine from before
these people's eyes, by wch. they have been so long in blindness,
but the danger and risque is very great, it being seldom or never
211 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
seen that the Church should flourish under a disenting Governor.
I most humbly pray your Lordshipp's favour in representing the
state of this infant church to ELM., and that H.M. would be
graciously pleased to furnish it wth. books, pulpet and com-
munion cloths and plate books etc., wch. would much please
and oblige the other people, etc. Signed, J. Bridger. 2| pp.
Enclosed,
291. i. Petition of Inhabitants and Freeholders of Newbury
in New England to the Earl of Dartmouth. Our
meeting-house was puled down by rude hands, wch. to
our satisfaction we had injoyed many years past.
Since that our opposite partie have levied by tax on our
estates to the building another meeting-house so far
distant from us and many others that wee nor they are
able to goe so far wh. renders it wholey unservisable to all ;
notwithstanding we was the greatest part of the whole.
These proceedings obliged us to build a Church and did,
and now do declare it to be the Queen's Chappel built
on our own land, yet canot proceed thereon by reason
of a warrant from the Genl. Assembly (enclosed), this put
an entire stop to our proceedings till Mr. Bridger heard of
our trouble and sent us severall letters and incouraged
us to proceed, but he is now come to our reliefe, and has
put us in this way of petitioning your Lordshipp from
whome wee pray a satisfactory and speedy answer,
being without any person to preach to us. Wee have
made Mr. Bridger our agent and have given him the
land for the Church, and have enabled him with work-
men and materiales to fenish the Church and is realy
a patron to us, and he has engaged himself to us and
to goe on in that work against all opposers whatever
and as he has so he will stand in the gap for us. Pray
that he may be established near them, etc. Signed,
John Bartlett, Joshua Brown, Joseph Annis, Saml.
Bartlett. Newbury, Jan. 28th, 17} \. 1 p.
291. ii. Order of Council and Assembly, Boston, Aug. 22,
1711. Upon an information offered by Capt. Hugh
March and others of the town of Newbery that several
persons living in the west precinct of said town have
raised and in part covered a meeting-house notwith-
standing the order of this Court July 19, past, to desist
therein untill their had been ane hearing ; ordered that
Samuell Bartlett, John Ordeway deacons Joshua Brown,
Joshua Bailly, Skipper Lunt and Penuell Titecome be
anew served by the sherriff with the order of July 19th
past, and attend this Court to answer for their contempt.
Concurred by the Representatives, consented to, J.
Dudley. Copy. 1 p.
291. iii. Petition of inhabitants and freeholders of the West
precinct of Newbury to the Earl of Dartmouth. Petit-
ioners are building at theire own costs a Church for the
worshipp of allmighty god according to the Established
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 215
1712.
church of Great Brittain. Pray that a suitable parson
may be sent, with a convenient allowance, books,
ornaments etc. Signed, Joshua Brown, John Bartlett,
Skipper Lunt, Samuel Bartlet, John Merrill, Abraham
Merrill, and 13 others, l^pp. [C.O. 5, 1091. Nos. 67,
67 i. iii.]
Feb. -2. 292. Mr. Bridger to the Earl of Dartmouth. Since I had
Piscataqua. the honour to wright to your Lorsp. I have seen the Act for the
preservation of white and other pine trees, which obliges me and
deputies to marke all trees proper to be taken for H.M. service,
which is puting an imposibility on me having no deputies allowed,
tho' the business of pereservation lyes not above 40 miles distant
the two extreames, yet with the allowance of 3 or 4 deputies I
dare engage performe that worke to your Lordps.' satisfaction,
without either another surveyor added, or my commision halved,
which I presume will be the opinion of one who will propose it
to your Lordp. 'to serve his son, not knowing in the affaire, etc.
There is a wast made in H.M. woods yearly, and having no help
could not prevent it, nor is it posible to be done without assistance.
I have been here and shall be more than three months and have
published the Act to the people, but have not yet been so happie
as to make an example on any, tho' many transgress[w/i,s] as
I am daily told are committed. I am at a very great expence
every day I am in the woods, and tho' I have a guard from the
government I am obliged to subsist them wch. cost me every
day 20s. I have not less than 6 horsemen at any time, nor am
I safe with them, but cannot subsist more, so must runn the
danger of the Indians, etc. Prays relief, etc. Proposes that
merchant contractors should pay 6/8 to the Surveyor General
for every tree loaded on board, etc. As to Mr. Collins'
contract, tho' he be gone of(f) the change, yet his agent here
cuts masts under pretence of fulfilling that contract, notwith-
standing there are 9 shipps' loads now rotting in this river for
want of shipping according to contract. As to Naval Stores from
hence, that is lost by reason the Navy did not pay the premiums,
there is in this fleet only in barrels of tar 712, of pitch 1194, of
turpentine 1631. The method I proposed some time since I
presume would give some life to it, which was that I should buy
all that was to be got here at a certaine price, that would incourage
the makers, for now the marchts. beats the price down so low
that theire is little or none made, etc. 18s. per barrel would
governe the market, etc. Signed, J. Bridger. 3 pp. [C.O. 5,
1091. No. 68.]
[Feb. 4.] 293. Petition of Wm. Hyde to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Prays to be appointed Secretary of Barbados in
the room of Ed. Jones, removed, etc. Endorsed, Reed. Read
Feb. 4, 17}l. 1 p. [C.O. 37, 9. A T o. 21 ; and 38, 7. p. 31.]
[Feb. 4.] 294. Petition of Thomas Cooke, Rector of St. Bennet's,
Paul's Wharf, to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reconi-
216 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
mends Francis Bond, son of a former deputy-Governor of Bar-
bados, for the Council, etc. Endorsed, Reed. Read Feb. 4, 17]!.
1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 83 ; and 29, 12. p. 406.]
Feb. 5. 295. Edward Warner to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Petitions to be appointed to the Council of Antigua. Owner
of a considerable estate there ; his grandfather was Lt. Governor,
ete. He was in England at the time of the late disorders, etc.
Endorsed, Reed. Read Feb. 5, 17}|. \ p. [C.O. 152, 9. No.
98 ; and 153, 11. pp. 424, 425.]
[Feb. 5.] 296. Petition of Jeremiah Dummer to the Queen. Your
Majesty's Province of the Massachusetts Bay has receiv'd private
intelligence since the failure of the late Expedition to Canada,
that the French and Indians design to make an invasion upon
'em, and they have likewise great reason to fear a defection of
their own Indians. Their Forts and Garrisons are destitute of
stores of war, and the Province is so extremely impoverish't as
to be no way able to supply 'em. Prays, as Agent, for a quantity
of small arms and powder. Signed, Jeremiah Dummer. En-
dorsed, R. Feb. 5, 17}i. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 149.]
Feb. 6. 297. Proclamation of H.M. General Pardon to the inhabitants
of Antigua. Whereas a great number of our subjects in this our
Island of Antegoa, did lately in an open rebellious manner take
up arms and committ a most barbarous murder on the body of
Daniel Parke Esq. then our Captain General and Commander in
Chief in and over all our Leeward Carribbee Islands in America,
nevertheless, wee being pers waded that many of the offenders
were drawn into that rebellion and murder by the subtle in-
sinuations, and by the influence of some of the chief advisers and
promoters thereof, and not from any rancour of mind, or dis-
affection to our Government, Wee out of Our princely disposition
to forgive, have resolved that our clemency shall temper our
justice. Know ye therefore that Wee of our especial grace and
favour, certain knowledge and meer motion, have pardoned
remitted and released and by these presents for us, our heirs and
successors do freely and absolutely pardon remitt and release to
all our subjects of the said Island of Antegoa who were any
offenders in the said crime (other than such persons as hereinafter
are excepted) and to their heirs, executors and administrators
all and all manner of treasons, felony s, misprisions of treasons
or felony, murders, crimes, misdemeanors and offences whatso-
ever by them and every of them (except as hereinafter excepted)
consulted, commanded, acted or done, on account of the said
late rebellion and murder and of and from all paines of death and
other paines and penaltys, indictments, convictions, attainders,
outlawrys, escheats and forfeitures therefore had or given, or
that may or might accrue for the same, except out of this our
Proclamation of free pardon all and every such person and persons
who are apprehended and in custody in order to be proceeded
against and prosecuted according to law for the murder aforesaid
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 217
1712.
and brought to condign punishment and all such persons who are
fled from justice on account of the said crime whereby others
may be deterred from committing or attempting the like for the
future. Also except those of H.M. Councill in any of the four
Islands of Antegoa, Nevis, Montserrat and St. Christophers who
have been concerned in encourageing, abetting or assisting in
the said rebellious and barbarous murder. Provided always
that if any of the persons hereby meant or intended to have
the benefit of this our gracious and free pardon shall presume
to justify the murder aforesaid or shall attempt the like rebellious
practices (as above mentioned) for the future they shall receive
no benefit by this our gracious Proclamation of free pardon, but
shall be liable to be prosecuted according to law for any of the
crimes abovementioned. Countersigned, Walter Douglas. St.
Johns, Feb. 6th, 1712. Copy, 1% pp. [(7.0.152,42. No. 82.]
Feb. 7. 298. Copy of letter from Col. John Evans to Wm. Penn.
London, Feb. 7, 17||- You was pleased to enjoyn me to make
such an estimate of the revenue of the Governmt. of Pennsylvania
as I was able from near seven years experience in the Province,
and found to be the settled income really and truely communibus
annis which please to accept as follows. Licences for publick
houses and permits for strong water shops 120. Registring
vessels and passes and bills of health 50. Fines and forfeitures
150. Seizures upon unlawful trade, the Crown's thirds 250.
Mony raised by Assembly in my time 300. The duty of one
penny per pound upon tobacco 600. Besides which there
appears by the Custom House accounts to have been paid in
England for tobacco made in that Province several years above
10,000 a year to the Crown, to which may in all reason be added
when you come upon a valuable consideration for your surrender
(which you are pleased to informe me you are about) near
20,000 a year that Pensylvania (planted and improved at your
sole cost and care) takes off, of the English manufacture, and it
may yet farther in justice be considered what it would have cost
the Crown of Great Britain to have brought that Province to
the perfection they will find it in, etc. Signed, John Evans.
11 pp. Annexed,
298. i. Further benefits vested in the Crown upon Mr. Penn's
surrender of Pensylvania by the disposal of Offices now
in his gift. Secretary's place for the Province and
Register for Probate of wills amounting per annum to
about 250. Master of the Rolls and Keeper of the
Seal 100. Clerk or Prothonptary of the Courts of
Philadelphia 250. Sherrif of Philadelphia, 200. Clerk
of the Court of New Castle, 200. Sherrif of New
Castle, 200. Besides there are Clerks and Sherrif s of
the several Counties of Bucks, Chester, Kent and Sussex
the least of which are worth about 40 per annum.
There are likewise Corroners, Registers Office for deeds
and another for wills in each county much about the
same yearly value. Moreover Mr. Perm's Lieut, sur-
218 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
rendered into the hands of the Lord Bellaniont then
Governor of New York about 5000 pieces of 8, the same
being treasure trove in that Province supposed to have
been brought in there by some pirates from Madagascar ;
and tho' the same of right belonged to Mr. Penn by
his Charter yet being by Lord Bellamont remitted into
the hands of the Crown, Mr. Penn has not received one
penny thereof. Copy. 1 p. The whole endorsed, Reed,
(from ye Treasury) Read 30th Aug. 1715. [C.O. 5,
1265. Nos. 4, 4 i.]
[Feb. 7.] 299. Major General Handasyd to the Queen. Petitions that
arrears of levy money, subsistance, and deductions on behalf of
widows, due to his Regiment in Jamaica, may be made good etc.
Endorsed, Reed. 7th, Read 18th Feb., 17}|. 4 pp. [C.O. 137,
9. No. 61.]
Feb. 8. 300. The Governor and Company of Adventurers of England
Hudsons Bay trading into Hudsons Bay to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
House. y or avoiding all disputes that may arrise between the Company
and the French setled in Canada, they conceive it necessary,
that no wood-runners either French or Indians, or any other
persons whatsoever, be permitted to travell or seeke for trade,
beyond limitts beginning from Grimingtons Island, or Cape
Pedrix, latitude 58^ North, which they desire may be the
boundary between the English and French on the Coast of
Laboradore towards Ruperts Land on the East Maine, and Nova
Brittania on the French side, and that no French ship, barque
boate or vessell whatsoever shall pass to the N.W. of Cape Pediix
or Grimington's Island, towards or into the Streights [or Bay of]
Hudson, on any pretence whatsoever. That a line be supposed
to pass to the South westward [of the] Island of Grimington, or
Cape Pedrix to the Great Lake Miscosinke alias Mistoseny,
dividing the same into two parts (as in the mapp now delivered)
and that the French nor any others imployed by them, shall
come to the North or Northwestward of the said Lake, or sup-
posed line, by land or water, on or through any rivers, lakes or
countrys, to trade or erect any Forts or Settlements, whatsoever,
and the English on the contrary not to pass the said supposed line
either to the southward or eastward. That the French be
likewise obliged to quitt surrender and deliver up to the English
upon demand, York Fort by them called Bourbone undemolished,
together with all forts, factories, settlements and buildings
whatsoever, taken from the English, or since erected or built by
the French with all the artillery and ammunition in the condition
they are now in, together with all other places they are possessed
of, within the limitts aforesaid, or within the Bay and Streights
of Hudson. These limitts being first setled and adjusted, the
Company are willing to referr their losses and damages formerly
sustained by the French in times of peace to the consideration
of Commissioners to be appointed for that purpose. Refer to
Charter. Signed, By Order of the Governor and Company etc.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 2l'J
1712.
Win. Potter, Seer. Endorsed, Reed., Read 8th Feb., 17} 4. 2
PI). [C.O. 134, 2. No. 34; and 135, 3. pp. 117119.] "
Feb. 8. 301 . Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Virginia. Plantations. I have chosen this first opportunity by an out-port
ship to hasten to your Lordps. the journals of our late Assembly,
tho' that of the House of Burgesses is not compleat and the latter
part only copyed from their votes as they were returned to me
every night. Your Lordps. will observe by these Journals the
matters upon which that House and I have chiefly differred ;
and I shall only here continue the bare relation of their trans-
actions, upon their return after their adjournment, without any
comment : since your Lordps. are better able to judge what may
be the consequence of such unaccountable proceedings, and what
remedys are proper for checking the irregularitys of Plantation
Assembly. According to what I had the honour to write your
Lordps. in my last, I hop'd the recess I gave the House of Burgesses
till the 24th of last moneth, would have been sufficient time for
them to reflect on their former irregularitys, and brought them
together with a better disposition for the publick service : but
they no sooner mett than they began to give indications of the
same obstinate temper with which they separated ; by continuing
their contentions with the Council, and by adhering to the
disallowance of the just claims of many publick creditors, tho'
they had not the least objection against the usefulness of their
services for the security of the country. I was however willing
to wait some days longer in expectation of their entring on new
measures to defend themselves in this time of danger ; but
perceiving no advances therein, I thought it necessary on the
28th past to quicken them by a speech wherein I took occasion
to answer sundry misrepresentations of matters of fact in their
Address of Dec. 21st (v. Journal of Burgesses), and likewise to
assure them that I was ready to yeild to anything they could in
justice or reason demand. But this had no better effect than to put
them anew upon a justification of their former proceedings, without
the least show of a more just behaviour for the future. So that
finding nothing could be expected from a sett of men so regardless
of their duty to their country, I thought it more advisable to put
an end to their session, than to burthen the people by keeping
them longer together to prosecute their fruitless contentions,
and on the last of January dissolved the Assembly after having
passed the few bills they had prepared at their former meeting,
which were only two publick and two private Acts, besides that
for appointing Rangers, which I pass'd in December. The
shortness of time will not allow me to send by this conveyance
the transcript of those Acts, but your Lordps. will see by the
titles they are of no great consequence. I have already intimated
the reasons that obliged me to reject the bill prepared by the
Burgesses for raising money to carry on a war against the Indians,
with which I hope your Lordps. will not be dissatisfy'd. For
had I pass'd it in terms so prejudicial to the interest of Great
Britain and unjust to the people here, I could neither have been
220 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
excusable to H.M., nor to the Country, besides the ill consequence
of engaging in a war upon a deficient fund, to be supplyed by
the same unjustifyable means, if not worse, than those on wch.
it was begun, or else the publick creditors left for ever unpaid.
The perverting the sense of laws already made, with no other
intent than to evade the payment of the publick debts, such as
the charge of the Militia that attended at Nattoway Town on the
Conference with the Tuscoruro Indians, and the expence of a
spy-boat fitted out in pursuance of H.M. Commands on the late
alarm, to discover the approach of the enemy, shows what little
dependance there is on the faith of a House of Burgesses : for
tho' both those services have been own'd by that House to be for
the publick benefit, yet no arguments either of mine or the Council
could obtain the least allowance for them. This obstinacy is the
more remarkable in that the first of these claims might have
been discharged according to a proposal of the Council for less
than the value of 50, by only exempting the Militia from this
year's publick levy. The other of the spy-boat was so frugally
managed, that the whole expence for three moneths amounted
only to 121. This last, with about 100 for the subsistance of
80 French prisoners, and between 40 and 50 expended in
raising the batterys were all the money payments insisted on in
the Book of Claims, and yet so strenuously refused by the Bur-
gesses, that they chose rather to let the book of claims remain
unpassed, and the whole countrey to suffer for want of laying
the publick levy than yeild to the just demands of the people
in so trifling a sum. These are the proceedings which obliged me
to put an end to this Assembly, and by wch. the late Burgesses
hope to recommend themselves to the populace, upon a received
opinion amongst them that he is the best patriot among them
that most violently opposes the raising any money let the occasion
be what it will : they may in some measure be excused for acting
that part ; since the far greater number of the late Burgesses had
scarce any other merit, to qualify them for the people's choice.
I have here represented to your Lordps. their faults with the
same freedom I used in commending their behaviour in the
Session last year, and whoever will compare the proceedings of
that Session with the incongruity s of this, will hardly believe
the same men could act so differently : but this may be easily
accounted for when the persons are considered, whose want of
publick spirit has irreconciled them to everything which required
expence, and such were most of the affairs recommended to them
this Session. And it now appears plainly that the vote of raising
20,000, (which is indeed a great sum for this Country) was no
other than a design of some to raise none at all, since under
pretence of raising so considerable a sum, they believed they might
more easily have recourse to extraordinary means, wch. they
were sure would never pass, for had they really intended to carry
on the war against the Indians, they could not have done it in
a more frugal way than by the Treaty I concluded with the
Tuscoruro Indians ; but tho' that was entred into at the instance
of their own House, they have made no provision for enabling
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 221
1712.
me to performe the terms of it. Indeed some of the House have
since their dissolution owned more freely than they would do
while sitting that most of the irregularitys of their proceedings
are owing to some rash votes pass'd without foresight, wch. they
could not afterwards get over without breaking through the rules
of their House, and so they chose rather to let the country suffer
than acknowledge themselves in an error. After what I have
here represented, I think it necessary to acquaint your Lops, that
these differences with the house of Burgesses, have made none
between me and the country ; I have not had the least dispute
with any one member of the Council, and even these very persons
who composed the house of Burgesses have all along declared as
much satisfaction with my administracon as with any Governor
they ever had ; tho' your Lops, will observe by my speeches I
have not flattered them. So that the ill management of the late
Assembly may in all probability give a new turn to the humors
of the people, and make them chuse for their next Representatives
men of more ge'nerous and disinterested principles : but I shal
first see some signs of such a disposition before I call another
Assembly. In the meantime I am taking all necessary pre-
cautions to secure the Country against the Indians, etc. (Here
follows passage quoted by Lord Dartmouth April 15 q.v.) At
present the danger seems much more to threaten North Carolina
where the Indians daily gather strength, and have already
besieged a party of the inhabitants in a small fort they had built
for their protection. The distractions amongst themselves gave
the Indians all the opportunity they could wish of destroying
them : for as our Burgesses for their private interest have dis-
appointed all means of defending this country, so those of Carolina
on a worse principle have resolved to sacrifice that province
to their own private resentments, and because they cannot
introduce into the Government the persons most obnoxious for
the late rebellion and civil war, they will make no provision for
defending any part of the country, and are now likewise dissolved
without doing any business. The Baron de Graff enried being
obliged while he was prisoner among the Indians to conclude a
neutrality for himself and the Palatines lives as yet undisturbed
but is sufficiently persecuted by the people of Carolina for not
breaking with the Indians, tho' they will afford him neither
provisions of war or victuals, nor any assistance from them : he
has always declared his readiness to enter into the war as soon
as he should be assisted to prosecute it : but it would be madness
to expose his handfull of people to the fury of the Indians, without
some better assurance of help than the present confusions in
that Province gives him reason to hope for : since the Indians
would soon either entirely destroy that settlement, or starve
them out of the place by killing their stocks and hindering them
from planting come. In the mean time the people of Carolina re-
ceive great advantage by this neutrality, for by that means the
Baron has an opportunity of discovering to them all the designs of
the Indians, tho' he runs the risque of paying dear for it, if they ever
come to know it. This makes him so apprehensive of his danger
222 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
from them, and so diffident of help or even justice from the Govern-
ment under which he is, that he has made some offers to remove
to this Colony with the Palatines, upon some of H.M. land ; and
since such a number of people as he may bring with him with what
he proposes to invite over from Swisserland and Germany will
be of great advantage to this country, and prove a strong barrier
against the incursions of Indians, if they were properly disposed
above our inhabitants, I pray your Lordps.' directions what
encouragements ought to be given to this design, either as to the
quantity of land or the terms of granting it. Your Lordps. will
also be pleased to instruct me as to the settlement of a great
number of the other inhabitants of North Carolina, who I under-
stand design to remove hither for protection. I beg leave to
represent to your Lordps. the necessity of some speedy orders
for this Colony, Maryland and Carolina to assist each other in
case either be attack'd, and if your Lordps. shal think fitt to
propose this to H.M., I humbly offer that the regulation of that
assistance may not be left to the precarious humor of an Assembly,
but that your Lordps. will be pleased to consider of some more
proper method for rendering it effectual. I should have sent
ere now an account of the stores of war in this country : but
considering those accounts have been transmitted both by Coll.
Nott and Mr. President Jenings, and none other sent hither
since, I thought it needless to trouble your Lordps. with an
account which would contain only the same thing without any
alteration except as I have already intimated to your Lordps.
the powder is much more wasted and decayed than it was then.
Signed, A. Spotswood. Endorsed, Reed. 14th April, Read llth
. Dec., 1712. 5 pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 86 ; and 5, 1363. pp.
426436.]
Feb. 0. 302. Governor Douglas to the Earl of Oxford, Lord High
Antegoa. Treasurer. I durst not presume writing to your Lordship before
I had fulfilled your commands of settling the publick affairs of
these Islands, and quieting the minds of the people of this Island
in particular. I have view'd the fortifications and put the
Militia in the best posture of defence, and in all the respective
Assemblys have passed some usefull bills into Acts which will be
submitted to the Roy all approbation, particularly by repealing
an imperfect and pernitious Law in this Island for establishing of
Courts etc., by the dilatoriness and uncertainity of recovering
debts, by this Act the Island was reduced to the brink of ruine
and the publick credit almost quite sunk, and making another
for these purposes to answer all Sir Edward Northey's objections.
On my arrival here, July 8th, I found the Island in great confusion
and distractions which rendered it impossible for me to put H.M.
orders in execution without taking some time to put about 200
men of the Queen's Regiment in some order and disposition (in
which Major Peter Buer was very serviceable) to save further
charges to the Crown in preventing farther commotions and all
other desperate measures from an unsettled and deluded people
having their chief hopes in Col. Hamilton Lt. General of these
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 223
1712.
Islands (an unquiet enemy to all chief Governors) soothing and
palliating their crimes as the proofs to be transmitted by the first
proper conveyance will plainly prove, his encourageing these
people in their obstinacy and sedition, and found myself e unable
to proceed further for the honour of H.M. service without sus-
pending him from all offices and places of trust in these Islands
untill H.M. further pleasure be known and appointing Col.
Daniel Smith (approved of by all the Islands) Lt. Governor of
Nevis in his room according to the power granted to me by H.M.
Instructions, besides the Addresses and Articles presented to
me by the Lt. Governors, majority of the Councillors, and other
chief inhabitants to remove him in order to restore the safety
and tranquility of these unhappy Islands, when these arid other
necessary alterations were accomplished ; I took some pains to
divide the heads of the Faction and Association and afterwards
sent to seize five of the most violent and active offenders who
surrendered themselves with all submission and obedience wholy
relying on the unbounded mercy of our dread Sovereign Lady the
Queen, some of them have been a month in custody in the chief
time of their making sugars which happens to be a great addition
to their sorrows, which seem to be very reall and unfeigned and
as these poor islands do humbly pray to be considered as under
your Lordps.' protection, they throw themselves at your Lord-
ship's feet to interceede for them at the throne of mercy : the
provocations to that insurrection had been of a long continuance
and insupportable to some weak people who were drawn into
that conspiracy without imagining it would arise to an open
rebellion or murder of the chief Governor, and without foreseeing
the unhappy traine of miserable consequences that has attended
this Island, which by the great mercy of our Soverign Lady the
Queen and your Lordship's most happy and glorious administra-
tion may flourish again in a short time and prove a very consider-
able Colony. P. 8. (in his awn hand) All ye honour and happyness
that I am ambitious of is to receive your Lordship's particular
commands, etc. etc. Signed, Walter Douglas. Endorsed, R.
May 15, from Sir John St. Leger (v. May 15). 4 pp. Enclosed,
302. i. Address of the Council of St. Christophers to Governor
Douglas. Congratulate H.E.'s arrival etc. and express
horror of Governor Parke's murder. Continue :
Upon notice given to Lt. General Hamilton of the said
murther by gentlemen dispatched to him from Antegua,
he came down to this Island in order to let us know yt.
by the death of Generall Parkes the Goverment devolved
uppon him, and by some words at the Counsell Table
gave us reason to beleive as he resented yt. action he
wod. make a strict and impartiall examination thereof,
etc. This gave life to an Address to H.M. the former
part of which contayned our abhorrance of the murther,
the latter an humble recommendation of Lt. -Generall
Hamilton as a person worthy to be honoured with her
high commission of Capt. Generall and Cheif Governour.
But to our great surprize wee found the said Address
224 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
returned. Provided we wod. stricke of ye paragraph
expressing the detestation of Generall Parke's murder
he wod. accept of and thank us for the rest, but he
findeing us not inclynable to race out ye part seemed to
slight us, so yt. adress droped, this made us come to a
second resolution of layeing before H.M. that our
detestation and to clear ourselves from any imputation
as contrivers or abettors of that bloody tragedy. At
second comeing down to this Island uppon makeing up
the General Councell and Assembly convened to meet
by his writs in his own name which is very remarkable
at the Island of Antegua, he began with a rufled counten-
ance to let us know the resentment he conceivd at our
Address to the Queen layeing down therein our abhorr-
ance of the murther, telleing us 'twas not none of our
busyness, but being answered at the board that wee
held ourselves bound in duty and conscience so to do, as
likeness [sic] being under the same obligation of gratitude
with those of Nevis for H.M. princely compassion
towards us, etc., and uppon giveing him our farther
sentyments yt. H.M. very well knew how to punnish her
Generalls uppon omission of theyr duty etc., this un-
locked his resentment unto this astonisheing expression
to us ' had what he deserved,' and uppon readeing our
letters in the Minutes of the Counsell relateing thereunto
finding yt. Michaell Ayones was intrusted with them in
a suddaine heat ordered the Clarke of the Counsell to
give him a coppy, wch. he told us wod. shew to the
Lords for trade and make Mr. Ayon appear the greatest
villayn in nature, etc. Lt. -Generall Hamilton by
countenanceing the murtherers of Generall Parke to so
high a degree keeps up the flames of that evill wch.
will, if not timely extinguished, carry its dangers to near
your Excellence's person. Wee therefore humbly^
address yr. Excellency to remove the cause by suspention
of Lt. -Generall Hamilton, and thereby incapacitate
him from oppressing us in case of your death, etc. 2 pp.
302. ii. Address of the Lt. Governor, some of the Council and
inhabitants of Antigua to Governor Douglas. Similar
request for the suspension of Lt. General Hamilton.
Signed, John Yeamans, Thomas Morris, Richard Oliver,
Sam. Byam, Jos. French, Jno. Wickham, H. Pember,
Rich. Worthington, Isaac Royall. Copy. 1 p,
302. iii. Articles exhibited against Lt. General Walter
Hamilton, during his administration as Governor in
chief of the Leeward Islands, cf. preceding. (1) Upon
his arrival at Antigua, he neither conversed with nor
countenanced General Parke's friends, but gave himself
up wholly to the councils of the adverse party. (2) He
discouraged the taking of oaths relating to the murder
and hindered and menaced those who went about to do
it. (3) He highly resented all discourse tending to the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 225
1712.
truth of the murther, and cited Dr. Buxton before
himself and Council for a sermon preached at Parham
Church describing it. (4) He called a General Council
and Assembly at this Island to inquire into the murther
(which he mildly terms death) of the late General, but
in no way took care to protect those that should give
their affidavits. (5) He permitted Col. Jones to use
barbarously Serjeant Bows who behaved bravely and
stood by the General Dec. 7, where he was very much
wounded. Flying to leeward after that action, Bows
was returned by the Lt. General's order to this Island,
and Col. Jones afterwards confined him on Monks Hill
in a dungeon several weeks where he was most bar-
barously used, and could get no relief tho' application
was made to the Lt. General untill they had squeezed
out of him an affidavit, tho' the affidavit now on record
in the Minutes of the General Council said to be taken
by him which for want of a full examination of the
matters therein contained the truth is only in part
discovered. (6) When he took Mr. Mark Bigg's oath
relating to a difference between Edward Chester, Senr.,
and Lt. Richard Worthington he swore him only to
the truth, when if he had been swore to the whole truth
etc., it would have made that oath to be against Chester,
and which must be presumed was contrived between
the Lt. General and Chester. (7) He desired the Address
of the Council of St. Kitts to be altered (v. supra).
(8) When Dr. Bonnin was interrogated on oath before
him and General Council, he desired to be excused, for
that it was not safe for him to swear, which words upon
the direction of Mr. Willett, one of the General Council
from St. Christophers were .minuted on the Councill
books, but afterwards found blotted out as supposed by
the Lt. General's order or contrivance with the Sec-
retary's. (9) He only interrogated the people as to the
late General's crimes. (10) He did unlawfully take
from Mr. Marke Bigg a negro boy belonging to his
brother-in-law. (11) A parcell of iron imported into
this Island in a French truce being seiz'd by the late
General and a parcell of cocoa etc. which Edward
Chester senr. in a felonious manner Dec. 7 took out of
the Generall's house adjoining to Savouret's Tavern
after his death by breaking open the doors and carrying
the same to his own house, was either seiz'd by the
Lt. General or agreed between him and Chester, for
that he has credit for the same with Chester in his books.
(12) He was mightily exasperated when anything
appeared to be for opening the truth relating to the
murther, and upon his hearing that Mr. Ayon's being
gone to leeward to go for England in order to lay open
the matter before H.M., he expressed himself in a
violent manner and that he would give 500 to know
Wt. 2U089. C.P. 15.
226 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
how he went off or who had a hand in it. (13) He
shewed his malice against Governor Parke in his letters
before the murder, and said at Nevis that he expected
to hear he was run or a worse thing would befall him, etc.
(14) When he first heard at Nevis that Mr. Ayon, Lt.
Worthington and others who were General Parke's
friends and who were with him when he was assaulted
and who were not killed, he declared his satisfaction
thereof for that they were preserved for the gallows, etc.
Signed, John Yeamans, Thomas Morris, Richard Oliver,
Sam. Byani, Jer. Blizard, Isaac Royal, Jno. Wickham,
Jos. French, Jno. Sawcott, H. Pember, Gousse Bonnin,
Richd. Worthington, William Yeamans. Copy. 2| large
pp.
302. iv. Affidavit of Charles Bowes, Serjeant in the company
of Capt. Richd. Worthington in Col Jones' Regt. Nov.
14, 1711. On Dec. 7 when Governor Parke was mur-
thered and deponent wounded in his defence, he saw
Henry Smith now an ensigne in the Regiment in armes
amongst the rebells. He told deponent as he lay
bleeding that they had given him his due. When he
was confined at Monk's Hill by order of Col. James
Jones, Smith told him that he, deponent, knew that
General Parke had sold the Island to the French, and
if he would make affidavitt of itt, he should be released.
Deponent said he knew of no such thing, etc. Signed,
Charles Bowes, f p.
302. v. Address of the Assembly of Antigua to the Queen.
Duplicate of Feb. 23, 1711.
302. vi. Lt. -Governor, some of the Council and inhabitants
of Antigua, to Governor Douglas. Return thanks for
the suspension of Lt. General Hamilton. " Such were
the discouragements the loyal party received from him,
that we must have quitted our interest and families "
etc. Signed, John Yeamans, Lt. Govr. ; Thomas Morris,
Richard Oliver, (of H.M. Council) ; Peter Buer, Jos.
French, Jno. Wickham. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 42.
Nos. 83, 97-101, 103.]
Feb. 9. 303. Lt. Gov. Vetch to the Earl of Dartmouth. The
Boston. severity of the winter having detained the mast fleet hitherto, I
have presumed to give your Lordship thiss. Gives details of
levying of company of Indians (v. Jan. 3.) Coll. Livingston is
not only considerably out of pockett, but must have a verry
great sway amongst them to raise such a number att any rate.
They are now embarked for Annapolis Royall, etc., etc. Signed,
Sam. Vetch, f p. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 105 ; and (duplicate) 105 i.]
Feb. 10. 304. Same to Same. Duplicate of preceding, with postscript
Boston. o f April 2nd added .--Since writing of the above I have advice
April 2. f rom the Agent for the garison Mr. Borland that none of his
bills are so much as accepted att home which is like to mine him
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 227
1712.
intirely, as it hath done the publick's credit here, so that I must
intreat your Lop. to speak to my Ld. Treasurer, to direct the
payment of the sd. bills, other ways it will be impossible for me
to support the garison of Annapolis Royall : with regard to which
I extreamly long for your Lordship's commands, etc. Signed,
Sam. Vetch. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 107.]
[Feb. 11.] 305. Extract of letter from Major Douglas to Mr. Lewis,
one of Lord Dartmouth's Secretaries. When I arrived in this
Island, I found the people in the greatest distractions and fears
for several days under arms, in continual alarms, the Loyalists
upon their guard, and in a dread of the country party, whom
they lookt upon as their greatest enemy s. There is soe great an
intimacy and friendship between the Queen's troops and the
rebells, that upon the least motion I should make to apprehend
any of the Planters the Island would be in an insurrection, and
the Loyalists being the weakest, exposed to certain ruin and
destruction. My orders to Capt. Norbury were slighted by him
when I sent him three prisoners on board, pretended at first he
wou'd not receive them, being not properly under my command,
this put a stop to any further progress in this affair, and gave the
rebells all the hopes of security. Till I have a sufficient power
according to the 69th article of my Instructions from the Board of
Admiralty, I must suspend all thoughts of further executing
H.M. commands, you will be pleased to let my Lord Dartmouth
know that I may receive those orders that are so proper for H.M.
service in this affair, and would tend to the safety of ye Colony.
The whole Assembly but one appeared in arms in the Rebellion
as their Commanders. I beleive it would not be amiss, if the
civil and military officers received some marks of H.M. resentment
by being made incapable. Capt. Norbury brings home Capt.
Rooksby, Lt. Watts and Ensign Smith, etc. The depositions
and witnesses that go with them, will I hope bring them to a
deserved punishment, that may be exemplary to the rest here.
This is the only step I am able as yet to make. I would be very
cautious of exposing H.M. authority again to new insults, the
Island to a civill war, or the attempts of an enemy, that is upon
the watch for those advantages any commotion would give 'em,
that I must waite for H.M. further orders, to enable me to execute
her commands, and to protect the people from such accidents
that might ensue. A man of war with some regular forces, or
the men or war order'd from Barbados for a few days upon this
station and under my command would sufficiently strengthen
me. The spirit of rebellion is so infused into the majority of the
people, that the same members are thought only the fittest persons
to be their Representatives. I take ye liberty to assure you, I
have done all yt. was possible for ye honour of H.M. service, for
which I am every minute ready to sacrifice my life wth. satis-
faction, but I humbly represent that either a qualifyed pardon
or some more force are necessary for ye safety and quiet of this
Isld. Signed, A faithful extract, etc. E. Lewis. [C.O. 153, 11,
pp. 427-429.]
228 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Feb. 12. 306. Lords Proprietors of Carolina to the Council and
Craven House. Assembly of North Carolina. Nothing could more sensibly
affect us than the news we have receiv'd of the very great disorders
and tumults that have lately happen 'd in North Carolina and we
having taken into our more serious consideration the unhappy
condition of our said Province as well in regard to the administra-
tion of the Government and justice there as in relation to the
commerce thereof and we are persuaded that nothing can more
effectually contribute to the welfare of our said Province than
the appointing of proper and fit persons to inquire into the state
and condition of the same and administer justice accordingly ;
We therefore inform you that we reposing special trust and con-
fidence in the ability and integrity of Edward Hyde Esq. have
authoriz'd and commission'd him our Governor of our said
Province of N. Carolina during our pleasure to whom we hereby
require you to pay all due obedience as the Acts of your Assemblies
and our Charter under the Broad Seal of England oblige you ;
We have also sent you over several other new commissioned
officers in whom we have great confidence and therefore recom-
mend them to you[r] care and friendship that by the mutual
assistance of each other justice may be more duly administred,
the welfare of our said Province and the peace and satisfaction
of all the inhabitants under our care may be more effectually
establish'd. We earnestly recommend to you Gentlemen in your
General Assemblies that you wou'd seriously consider of the state
of the Church in our Province and take care that the same may
be establish'd and that all clue and necessary appointments may
be made to the Ministers thereof, and to give encouragement
to such proceedings we are willing to contribute the sum of
200 towards the building a Church in such place as shal be
thought most suitable and convenient to all or at least the
greatest part of the inhabitants. We desire you to prepare laws
for our confirmation whereby the peace and happiness profit and
advantage of all the people under our care may be best secur'd
and improv'd and all such disorders as have lately been committed
amongst you for the future may be prevented. And lest any
invasion or descent shou'd be made hereafter upon you by any
Indian or other foreign enemy whatever we think it highly
expedient that a law be prepar'd for the regulating the Militia
that for the future they may be made more ready and able to
defend the country and preserve the peace and quiet of the Govt.
We expect that care shal be taken that our quit-rents may be
duly paid to our Receiver Genii, at such times and places as shal
be thought most proper or at one convenient place upon each
River and considering the smallness of the reserv'd rents we
expect they should be paid in fine silver. You are to endeavour
that such laws, customs and usages of our said Province as are
for the advantage of the Government thereof be put in execution
and we desire you to remember that no law whatever either
already pass'd or that hereafter shal be pass'd shal be in force
after they have been disapprov'd of by us here nor for any longer
term than two years unless such law is within that time confirm'd
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
229
1712.
Feb. 13.
Feb. 13.
Treasury
Chambers,
Whitehall.
Feb. 13.
Whitehall.
Feb. 13.
Whitehall.
Feb. 14.
Whitehall.
under the hands and seals of the Palatin and four more of the
Lords Proprietors. We doubt not Gentlemen but you will
constantly endeavour the good of our Province and that you will
do us all the friendly offices that shal be in your power. Signed,
Beaufort, Carteret, Fulwar Skipwith, J. Colleton, J. Danson.
[C.O. 5, 290. pp. 50-52.]
307. Mr. Hodges, Attorney General of Barbados, to Mr.
Popple. The Queen has bin pleased to renew my licence of
absence for six months longer, so hope that Mr. Lowther or
Mr. Slingsby's applications will have no effect on the Lords to
my prejudice, etc. Signed, Tho. Hodges. Endorsed, Reed. 13th,
Read 25th Feb., 17j-|. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 84 ;
and 29, 12. p. 409.]
308. Treasury Minute. Col. Nicholson called in. My Lord
[Treasurer] resolves, that upon the bills relating to the Ex-
pedition to Canada, and for transporting the garrison of Anapolis
to France, shall be satisfy ed forthwith, and the remaining third
part as soon as it shall appear who is to be charged with the
monys taken up for those services, that so the same may be
accounted for, which matter is now under examination, and ready
for a report, (v. No. 309.) [C.O. 324, 32. p. 127.]
309. The Earl of Dartmouth to Governor Hunter. Col.
Nicholson having given an account upon his arrival here that
2000 small arms with a considerable quantity of powder and ball,
part of the stores allotted for the expedition to Canada, were left
under your care ; I am commanded to acquaint you, H.M. is
pleased to order they should remain with you for the publick
service. As you cannot but look upon this to be a mark of H.M.
goodness to Her subjects in those parts, I hope so large a supply
will likewise be sufficient for your security. The enclosed paper
(No. 308) is copy of a minute taken at the Treasury, by which
you will see how readily the disbursements made for the use of the
Government have been complyed with here. Signed, Dart-
mouth. [C.O. 324, 32. p. 125.]
310. Same to Governor Dudley. Duplicate of preceding
except that the number of small arms is 1000, and conclusion ;
" Such a ready complyance is an encouragement for everybody
to shew their zeal for the good of their country, when their
reinbursements are so punctually answered." Signed, Dart-
mouth. [C.O. 324, 32. p. 126.]
311. The Earl of Dartmouth to Lt. Governor Spotswood.
H.M. having commanded me to signify by this mail to Her Gov-
ernors of New England and New York, that the small arms and
ammunition designed for the expedition to Canada, should be left
in their hands for their better defence against any attempt of the
enemy ; I thought proper to communicate the same to you as a
mark of H.M. tender concern for her subjects in the Plantations,
230
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
and that you may allways depend upon her care for your safety.
You know that last year Mr. Corbin at that time Naval Officer at
Rappahannock River lay under some suspicion of having made
a razure in one of H.M. passes, that it might serve for another
purpose than that for which it was sigii'd ; I cannot refuse him
the justice to tell you he has voluntarily appeared here, and
petitioned to be heard for the clearing his innocence in that matter.
Signed, Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. p. 128.]
Feb. 14. 312. H.M. Warrant appointing John Wentworth to the
St. James's. Council of New Hampshire in the room of Winthrop Hilton,
deed. [C.O. 324, 32. p. 128.]
Feb. 15. 313. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. There
Whitehall, being frequent demands from the Plantations of arms, am-
munition, ordnance, and ordnance stores, and particularly of
late from Virginia, the Massachusets Bay, and the Leeward
Islands. The Council and Assembly of Nevis have represented
to us that by reason of the attempts of the enemy in 1706, the
hurricane in 1707, and by reason of two years of drought since,
they are rendred unable to take care of +heir own security as
formerly in providing such stores as are necessary for their
defence, and therefore pray your Majesty will order them such
arms, stores ammunition as are contain'd in the annex'd lists :
But there being 110 fund as we are inform 'd for supplying the
said Plantations, we humbly take leave to offer that it is necessary
some provision of a certain annual summ be made, for providing
stores for the defence of the said Plantations. [C.O. 324, 10.
PP. 1, 2.]
[Feb. 15.] 314. Maryland Merchants to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. The Government of Maryland having been vacant
near three years : and finding by experience the laws in force
respecting trade grow languid and faint, and that there is an
occasion for some further laws to be enacted, wee humbly hope
your Lordships will recommend it to H.M. to send a Governor to
the said Province that is acquainted with that country, and its
traffick, which may contribute to give new life and vigour to that
Colony, and improve the Queen's revenue here. Signed, Arthur
Bailey and three others. Endorsed, Reed., Read Feb. 15, 17 }y.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. No. 48 ; and 5, 727. p. 311.]
[Feb. 15.] 315. Deposition of W. Martin, of Antigua, as to the behaviour
of Capt. Norbury. (v. Aug. 27, 1711 etc). Signed, Willm.
Martin. Endorsed, Reed., Read Feb. 15, 17{. 2 pp. [C.O.
152,9. No. 101.]
[Feb. 16.] 316. Capt. John Walton to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. In reply to Mr. Popple's letter of the 2nd inst., whereby
he intimates that your Lordships expect in writing what new
matters he hath to offer, in relation to the Virgin Islands encloses
following. Continues : If these evidences are not sufficient
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 231
1712.
enough to convince your Lordships of ye necessity of sending a
Governor, and placing a Government there, for the honour of the
Crown and the welfare of H.M. subjects in America, Mr. Walton is
willing (since no good account can be expected from the Leeward
Islands) to undertake a voyage thither, and to return as soon as
possibly he can with a more exact plan of the said Islands, har-
bours and creeks, with samples of the several commodities growing
there, etc. But Mr. Walton humbly hopes your Lordps. will repre-
sent to H.M. that he has had no salary or other reward, for his two
years service there, as Lt. Governor, nor for his other services
and expences for the publick good, etc. Prays for some consider-
ation for his salary and past services, if it is not thought proper
to settle a government there. Endorsed, Reed. 16th, Read 21st
Feb., 17}]. 2pp. Enclosed,
316. i. (a) Capt. John Perrie to Capt. Walton. Youghall,
Sept. 7, 1711. If a goverment were setled on Spanish
Towne, the windermost of the Virgin Islands, it would
be a publick service, and might destroy the clandestine
trade carried on at St. Thomas, and pirates sheltering
among them, etc. Tortola from the endeavours of the
Dutch to get it restored, and from the Hamburghers
buying their pretentious to it, makes me beleive it must
be a very good Island, for when I was sent downe by
General Codrington, upon an order from hence, to en-
quire into our title and the Dutch's pretentions, I was
offered a considerable summe by the Factor at St.
Thomas's to make a report in their favour, and that the
French did settle Santa Cruz is very well known, and I
have been informed, that the Danes do lay claime and
did hoist their flag on Crab Island, when a squadron of
H.M. ships commanded by Mr. Nevile in May, 1697,
was in those parts, etc. Signed, Jno. Perrie. Copy.
H PP-
316. i (b) Observations on the harbours of the Virgin Islands,
from the Journal of Capt. John Watts, H.M.S. Sunn
prize. Copy. 1 p.
316. i. (c) Extract from a letter from the Surveyor General of
Barbados and the Leeward Islands to H.M. Commis-
sioners of the Customs. Anguila and Spanish Towne
make 50 to 60,000 of ginned cotton wool per annum,
the greatest part whereof is carried to St. Thomas
(Danish) Statia and Saba (Dutch) where they purchase
necessary s for themselves and negroes in prejudice to
the fair British traders in these parts, and as injurious to
our cotton manufactuary at home by having such a
quantity of our Plantation produce carried direct to
foreign markets, etc. Proposes that a Collector be placed
at each of the Islands. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9.
Nos. 103, 103 i. ; and 153, 11. pp. 438-444.]
Feb. 18. 317. Col. Lilly to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. I sailed to
Barbados. Newfoundland on Aug. 8 after receiving H.M. command from the
232 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Board of Ordnance, and returned here on Nov. 1st, Governor
Lowther having granted me his order for the Burlington man of
war to carry me on this service, without which means near a
whole year must have been lost, etc. I took a delijent survey of
the chief part of the settlements at Newfoundland ; and did also
use my endeavours to have the assistance of Commodore Crow's
authority for repairing the fortifications already built at St.
Johns ; but found there was no possibility of carrying on anything
of that nature without assistance from England. I have by
this conveyance transmitted my report etc. to the Board of
Ordnance, etc. Signed, Chrn. Lilly. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 43. No.
72.]
Feb. 18. 318. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Barbados, tatioiis. When I Avritt the letter dated Dec. 20, 1711, which is
here inclosed (v. C.S.P. Dec. 20, 1711), there was a prospect of
a shipes going to Great Britain, but that failing I had no oppor-
tunity of sending you any letter since that time. I have some
information that Mr. Hodges H.M. late Attorney General here
hath not only thrown some reflections upon me, but hath also
complained that he had a right by H.M. licence to name a deputy
and that I refused him the benefit of it : to this I answer that if
Mr. Hodges had shewed me such licence, I had certainly yielded
all imaginable obedience to it, but I deny that he ever shewed
me such licence, it is true, he shewed me a piece of paper which
he called a licence, but it was so much defaced, and there was so
much wanting of it, that it was not intelligible, therefore to supply
this defect he produced another piece of paper writ in his own hand
which he called a coppy of the said licence : upon this I asked if
he had any attested coppy of it, to which he answered that he
had not, whereupon I told him that what he produced was not
a sufficient order for me to take notice off, and that if he left the
Island, I would appoint a sufficient person to execute the office
of Attorney General till H.M. pleasure was known, etc. I have
suspended one Mr. Carter from the exercise of his profession in
the Law for appearing against the Queen at a time when he
served H.M. as Solicitor General, but have since given him to
understand that I will restore him provided he will acknowledge
his fault and make his submission. I shall by the next oppor-
tunity send all the papers relating thereto, etc. Mr. Turner,
Chilton, Hodges, Slingsby, Beak and Symonds are all late in-
stances of suspensions of this nature, but I may venture to say
that none of these Gentlemen had offended the twentieth part
so much as Mr. Carter. I have directed the Attorney General
to lay before your Lordships the case of the ship Oxford etc. I
have suspended Mr. Skene who was both private and publick
Secretary at the advice and request of the Council and General
Assembly. Papers enclosed. Mr. Duglas, General of the
Leeward Islands writ me the following letter : " Antigua, Jan. 7,
17} |. I gave you an account the other day that I designed very
speedily to put H.M. orders in execution by making an example
of some of the most notorious offenders in the late Rebellion,
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 233
1712.
and I wish the Panther and Experiment were to stay a few days
least their countenance should be necessary, hoping they will
speedily return. Mr. Thomas Kerby, who is supposed to have
fled from justice, and betraied the late General both as private
and publick Secretary, and one of the chief promoters of the late
tray torus rebellion, and the person that is proved that fired the
first musket against General Park, and advanced 20 paces at the
head of that villanous rabble. I hope you will not judge so
treasonable a murther can be bailed, but that he may be sent for
England, there being sufficient evidence to prove the charge
against him in England already, or kept in a dungon untill I
send for him. P.8. Lt. General Hamilton having misbehaved
himself in openly favouring of the rebbels, I design in a few days
to suspend him." Upon the receipt of this letter, I made it my
business to learn whether Kerby was come to this Island, which
with some paines and difficulty I not only understood, but also
found out that he was at the house of one Mr. Codrington, not-
withstanding which I did not think it prudent at that time to
send out a warrant to apprehend him, because of the just dis-
trust I had of the officers that were to execute it, for this, and some
other reasons, I was forced to take no manner of notice of him
for some time, which had the desired effect, for through this, he
and his party conjectured that I knew nothing of him or his
character, therefore on the 20th of the last month he came to
church, which I perceiving by the description I had got of his
person, did take that opportunity to apprehend him myself, and
having so done I committed him to gaol for high treason, where
at first he had all the indulgence shewn him that was proper for
one in his circumstance, but the people of his principles and
friends (of which Mr. Cor bin and Skene whome I have suspended
are two) abused it to such a degree by the great respect they
shewed him, in sending him presents and in going very frequently
to see him in prison, and this wrought so much upon the minds
of the ignorant people, that they began not only to justify, but to
commend the crime for which he was committed, and to pity
him as a great sufferer : this therefore obliged me to put a strict
guard upon him, and to direct that nobody should go to see him,
apprehending that a people which so gloried in his crime, would
not be long without attempting to rescue him : in this state of
the matter, the General Assembly addressed me to send all the
French prisoners to Great Britain, in one of H.M. shipes that
attends this station. I laid the said Address before the Council,
who all unanimously agreed to it : hereupon I sent orders in
writing to Mr. Constable (the Senior Captain upon this station)
to direct the Burlington to be got ready to go to Great Britain
for H.M. service, but he writ me word he would not send her :
such disobedience to orders and contempt of Government, hath
been extreamly injurious to H.M. service, and a great encourag-
ment to all the factious and rebellious people, and may be of very
ill consequence upon any extraordinary emergency. After Mr.
Constable had disobeyed my orders, it was with great difficulty
that I even kept Kerby in prison till I could hire a vessel at my
234 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
own charge to send him to England to be tried : this I esteemed
absolutely necessary for H.M. service, as well as to shew the
people that all their endeavours and artifices should not prevent
justice being done upon so heinous a criminal. I must now
remind your Lordshipes that I have no power by the Com-
mission of Vice Admiral to call any of the Captains of the men
of war to an account for the breaking of any of my orders, and
I again submit it to your Lordshipes whether such a power is
not necessary as is hinted at in H.M. Instructions to me. I have
advice from England that one Mr. Sheard hath given out that
he is to succeed me in the Government, and that I shall be re-
called upon the least complaint, this being rumoured here, some
malicious people have privately hired a vessel and sent her away
freighted with all the ill nature and slander that they could rake
together. As I am conscious of no fault I have committed, I
cannot now make a defence to any accusation my enemys have
or may exhibit against me, they not having intimated any of
their designs of that kind to me : it is my good fortune that the
Council, General Assembly and Grand Jury have all expressed
their satisfaction and approbation of my conduct and adminis-
tration, and I may venture to say that I have not wronged or
injured any person whatever : I therefore humbly hope that your
Lordshipes will think it reasonable to hear me against the com-
plaintes of some male-contents, before any judgment or censure
is past upon them. I have appointed Mr. Barwick to execute
the office of Secretary till H.M. pleasure is known. I have
directed him to keep an exact account of the profits, that H.M.
may despose thereof as shall be thought most meet. I pitched
upon this Gentleman for his fair character, liberal fortune, and
great ingenuity, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed.
April 11, 1712, Read July 17, 1713. Holograph. 3| pp. En-
closed,
318. i. Arthur Slingsby to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Encloses following by Governor Lowther 's
command. Signed, Arth. Slingsby. Feb. 18, 1712.
1 7)
2 P-
318. ii. Copy of Clearance bill of the Oxford, Robert Knowles
Master, (v. May 2) from Kingsale. Oct. 4, 1711. f p.
318. iii. Copy of manifest of goods imported by the Oxford
from Bristol and Kingsale, delivered by Mr. Addison
to the Governor of Barbados. Nov. 16, 1711. 1 p.
318. iv. A statement of case of the Oxford (v. May 2.) The
ship broke bulk, in spite of warning, before the Governor
had seen the clearance bills or could compare them with
the manifest. .After comparing the entries made at
the Custome-house etc., it appeared plainly that they
differed materially from the manifest and clearance bill,
(ii. and iii.) Details given and case of the trial etc.
stated. 3| large pp.
318. v. Copy of proposed bond for the appearance of Capt.
Robert Knowles of the Oxford to answer a libel exhibited
against the Oxford, the prosecution being meanwhile
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 235
1712.
deferred 10 months for him to produce H.M. pardon
for his breaches of the Acts of Trade. 4 pp.
318. vi. Copies of papers relating to the case of Alexander
Skene, Secretary of Barbados, (v. Nov. 20) (a) Governor
Lowther's message to the Council and Assembly, re-
questing them to enquire into the perquisites of that
office, (b) Report of the Committee of the Council and
Assembly. Skene has been guilty of charging exorbitant
fees even since H.M. graciously pardoned him after his
suspension for three years. He has not hung up a
table of fees, as the law directs, and has extorted 20s.
per head from masters of ships who were transporting
French prisoners to England last Aug. ; etc. etc. He is
incapable, arrogant, disrespectful, and presumptuous
in giving orders without your Excellency's directions
in matters over which he has no powers. We believe
him to betray the confidential debates of the Council.
We entreat your Excellency to suspend and replace him
till H.M. pleasure be known. We conclude by express-
ing our entire satisfaction and approbation of your
Excellency's conduct through the whole administration
of the affaires of this Island. It has already had good
effects. The late Grand Jury expressed a just sence of
your merritt, etc. (c) Extracts from Minutes of Council
of Barbados, 1699-1708. (d) Depositions of Capt.
Kingston Townsend, Capt. John Robinson, Thomas
Poor, Arthur Upton, Robert Aylmorej Bryan Karney,
Richard Downes, Edmund Sutton, Joseph Young etc.,
in support of preceding. The whole endorsed, Reed.
April 11, 1712, Read July 17, 1713. 49 pp.
318. vii. Governor Lowther's warrant suspending Alexander
Skene from all his places till H.M. pleasure is known.
Feb. 12, ll\\. Signed, Robt. Lowther. Copy. 1 p.
318. viii. Address of the General Assembly of Barbados to
Governor Lowther. In consideration of their great
charge to the country, we desire your Excellency to
send all the French prisoners of war to Great Britain in
one of H.M. ships. We understand some persons have
sent a sloop to Great Britain without haveing any
clearance for that port or desiring to know whether
you had any dispatches for H.M. service. This dis-
respectful behaviour we cannot but greatly resent as
both ariseing from and tending to faction and sedition.
We beseech your Excellency to direct a strict enquiry
to be made, who were the persons concerned, and dis-
tinguish them according to their demerit. Feb. 5,
1711(12). I p. [0.0.28,13. Nos. 103, 103 i.-viii. ;
and (without enclosures) 29, 13. pp. 22-30.]
Feb. 18. 319. Governor Lowther to the Earl of Dartmouth. Repeats
Barbados. p ar i o j preceding letter. Concludes : I have advice of 17 sail of
merchant shipes that are bound for Martinique from old France,
236 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
and that they will arrive in ten days. I have given the necessary
orders to intercept them. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed,
R. April 13. Holograph. 3 pp. Enclosed,
319. i. ii. Duplicates of No. 318 viii.
319. iii. Address of the Clergy of Barbados to the Queen.
Praise Mr. William Sharpe, as President of the Council,
etc. Signed, Gilbert Ramsay, Ad. Justice, And. Baillie,
Charles Cuninghame, William Ball, Gilb. Wharton,
Saml. Beresford, Willm. Gordon, Charles Irvine, Edw.
Brice, Jno. Glasgow. 1 large p.
319. iv. Address of the Clergy of Barbados to the Queen.
The address from the clergy here in favour of the late
Governor Mr. Crowe was supposititious, etc. Signed,
Charles Irvine, Sam. Beresford, Willm. Gordon, Edw.
Brice, Charles Cuninghame, Jno. Glasgow, And. Baillie.
1 large p.
319. v. Address of the gentlemen and merchants of Barbados
to the Queen. Praise Mr. Sharpe's administration
and recommend him to H.M., whom he is now preparing
to. approach. 107 signatures. 1 large p.
319. vi. Governor Lowther's Warrant to the Master of the
sloop John and Mordecai for taking Thomas Kerby in
custody to England. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Feb. 18,
1711 (12). f p.
319. vii. Governor Lowther's warrant for the commitment
of Thomas Kerby for High Treason. Signed, Rob.
Lowther. Feb. 18, 1711 (12). f p.
319. viii. Address of the Grand Inquest of Barbados to the
Queen. Dec. 11-14, 1711. Return thanks for H.M.
favour and regard, especially in sending a Governor,
thanks to whose prudence and good example the in-
habitants are now more united in their common interest
and temperate in their disputes, etc. Signed, Tho.
Maycock, Wm. Sealy, Jo. Sampson, Henry Lintott,
Rogr. Webb, Gerrott Herbert, Wm. Spencer, Edwin
Carter, Jacob Wright, Henry Lawrence, Joseph Thorne,
Jno. Carleton, Geo. Leader, Isaac Thorpe, Alex. Parris,
Thos. Bourne, George Scott. 1 large p. [C.O. 28, 43.
Nos. 71, 49, 49 i., 53 ; and (duplicate) 67, 68-70, 73, 74,
77.]
Feb. 18. 320. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Request payment of enclosed account of office
expenses and salaries, Michaelmas to Christmas, 1711. [C.O.
389, 37. pp. 29-31.]
Feb. 19. 321. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Pro-
Whitehall, pose the disallowance of the Act of Barbados to render more
effectual certain legacies by Capt. Williams, on the grounds set
forth by the Attorney General, Jan. 18, q.v. [C.O. 29, 12. pp.
407, 408.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
237
1712.
Feb. 19.
Whitehal.
Feb. 19.
Whitehall.
Feb. 19.
Whitehall.
322. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord Lansdown.
We transmit to your Lordship a petition we have receiv'd from
Major General Handasyd relating to the want of recruits and to
the pay of his regiment in Jamaica. [(7.0. 138, 13. p. 384.]
323. Lord Lansdowne to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Reply to preceding. The matter is already under the consideration
of the Comptrollers of the Accounts of the Army, etc. Signed,
Lansdowne. Endorsed, Reed. 20th, Read 21st Feb., ll\\. 1 p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 62 ; and 138, 13. p. 385.]
324. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Re-
commend Edward Warner and William Mathews to fill two
vacancies in the Council of Antego. [C.O. 153, 11. p. 436.]
[Feb. 19.] 325. Rowland Tryon to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Genl. Douglass removed James Milliken from the Council of
Nevis, and has refused to tell him his reasons, saying that he has
communicated them to the Board. Prays on behalf of said
Milliken that the Board will signify to him what those reasons are,
in order that Milliken may justify himself, etc. Endorsed, Reed.
Read Feb. 19, 17fJ. I p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 102 ; and 153, 11.
p. 437.]
Feb. 19.
Whitehall.
Feb. 20.
Wimbledon.
Feb. 21.
Whitehall.
326. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Reply to Dec. 18, 1711. We are humbly of opinion that
the Hudsons Bay Company have a good right and just title to
the whole Bay and Streight of Hudsons. Enclose the Company's
petition relating to the settlement of boundaries (v. Feb. 8),
upon which we take leave to offer that as it will be for the advan-
tage of the Company, that their boundaries be settled, it will also
be necessary that the boundaries between H.M. Colonies on the
Continent of America, and the French of Canada, be likewise
agreed and settled ; wherefore we humbly offer these matters
may be recommended to H.M. Plenepotentiaries at Utrecht.
Autograph signatures. If pp. [C.O. 134, 3. No. 19 ; and 135,
3. p. 120.]
327. Rev. Mr. Collins to the Earl of Dartmouth. Presses
for an answer to his brother's petition etc. cf. Jan. 21 and May 20.
Signed, Edward Collins. 2 pp. [C.O. 194, 24. No. 9.]
328. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following, which H.M. thinks proper
should be considered at your Board, and that you report your
opinion, upon the several points therein mentioned. Signed,
Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. 23rd, Read 25th Feb., 17f|. 1 p.
Enclosed,
328. i. Extracts from a letter from Governor Douglas to the
Earl of Dartmouth. Duplicate of Nov. 28, 1711. g.v.
[C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 104, 104 i. ; and 153, 11. pp.
444-448.]
238 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Feb. 21. 329. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Report
Whitehall, upon the petition of Tho. Simpson and the widow of Charles
Gandy of Port Royal in Jamaica, (v. Sept. 17, 1711), praying to
be relieved from the prosecution of Charles Chaplin, H.M. Deputy
Collector, etc. On April 5, 1710, an Act was past in Jamaica for
fitting out two sloops for the defence of the Island, and appointing
Thomas Finch, Charles Gandy and Thomas Simpson commis-
sioners for its execution, any two of them to act in the hiring or
fitting out of the sloops. But by a clause in the Act the Collector
is to pay 5000 into the hands of the Commissioners. The
Commissioners entred into separate bonds to H.M. in the penalty
of 5000 that they shou'd each of them render just accounts to
any Assembly when sitting. Simpson received 800 of Chaplin ;
soon after which he and Gandy went to sea, where Gandy was
killed. During their absence Finch received 1500 of Chaplin.
After Simpson's return he and Finch apply'd themselves to the
business intended, but as money came in slowly from Chaplin,
Finch on April 10, 1711, enquired of Chaplin the reason, who told
him that the money was wanting from him, he being indebted
to Chaplin, upon which a dispute arose between them and at last
Finch by threats and otherwise did sign a receipt to Chaplin for
2300, and for 1500 abovementionecl, making together 3800,
tho' he had receiv'd but 1500 thereof. The Assembly met April
17th, and enquiring what had been done, Chaplin produc'd the
said receipt. Finch in his justification declar'd to the Assembly
that he had only receiv'd the 1500, alledging the receipt for
3800 had been exacted from him by force. Notwithstanding
which the Assembly expell'd him from their House, of which he
was a member. On June 8, 1711, the Assembly pass'd another
Act for vesting the estate real and personal of the said Tho. Finch
in trustees the better to enable his sureties to pay 3800 due from him
to the public.
Upon which last Act we take leave to observe that it vests the
real and personal estate of Finch in trustees to enable Simpson
and Gandy to pay the 3800, but makes no provision for the
overplus, which is a very great hardship upon Finch, for by the
laws of that Island real estates are not subject to pay debts,
besides that we do not conceive there was any need of taking
this extraordinary method of an Act, for that his sureties might
have had their remedy at law. Pursuant to this Act the said
trustees have already sold part of Finches estate for considerably
less than had been offer'd for it ; Finch will by these proceedings
be intirely ruin'd, and his creditors here, who had intrusted him
with considerable effects will by this means be very great sufferers.
By the first mention'd Act for raising the 5000, the Deputy
Collector, Mr. Chaplin, is directed to pay the money to the
Commissrs., so that his paying it to Finch alone (in case he did so
pay it) is not warrantable by the Act ; but it does not appear to
us that Finch did receive any more than 1500. Upon the whole,
we are humbly of opinion that the foresaid Act for vesting Finche's
estate in trustees is unpresedented and unreasonable, and con-
sidering the said Simpson and the widow Gandy may have their
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 239
1712.
remedy at law against Finch for so much money as he actually
receiv'd of Mr. Chaplin, we are humbly of opinion that your
Majesty be graciously pleas'd to signify your disallowance of the
said Act. [C.O. 138, 13. pp. 386-390.]
Feb. 22. 330. Col. Lilly to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Barbados. Encloses following. Signed, Chrn. Lilly. Endorsed, Reed. 24th
May, 1712, Read March 25th, 1716. I p. Enclosed,
330. i. Report by Col. Lilly, Engineer, on the fortifications
and harbours of Newfoundland. Barbados, Nov. 12,
1711. The defects of the Fort William at St. John's,
(which incloses but about f of an acre, tho' it stands
upon more) are that it is commanded by the skirt of the
mountain that reaches within less than a quarter of a
mile to the eastward of it, it wants proper flanks for
its defence, its rampart or earthen walls being but four
feet high is too low to shelter the inhabitants and their
houses, or rather hutts, against an enemy's artillery.
The parapet or brestwork upon this wall being but two
feet thick and three feet high besides ye stakes that
support it from falling, is also too low and too weak for
to make any tollerable resistance, the outward talu of
its rampart is so very easie of ascent, that I think this
place has nothing to prevent an enemy's insults, except
4 rows of pallisadoes which do surround it, and severall
of these I found too small, and some of them rotten.
Wherefore I desired the Commodore and Commander in
Chief to assist me in commanding some of the people
to go to work while I directed them towards repairing
the Fort, but he made answer that he could not command
a number sufficient for such an undertaking, and that
there was no possibility of carrying on anything of forti-
fication work in that country without assistance from
England, and indeed this is my oppinion also, however
I prevail'd with him so farr that he immediately gave
orders for a sufficient number of new pallisados to be cut
and placed where the old ones were defective, etc. To
make a good and lasting settlement in Newfoundland,
a good but small fort should be built on the Northwest
part of Ferryland head. Describes English settlements
in Newfoundland ; St. John's Harbour, and Ferryland
Harbour, and how Ferryland might be fortified, with
details of plan. Jan. 28, 1712. Signed, Chrn. Lilly.
Endorsed as covering letter. 21 closely written pp. [C.O.
194, 6. Nos. 14, 14 i. ; and (without enclosures) 195, 6.
pp. 266-268.]
Feb. 25. 331. Mr. Attorney General to the Lord High Treasurer.
In obedience to your Lordship's commands, I have considered
the report of the Council of Trade and Plantations upon the
memorial of William Pen, Esq., Proprietor and Governor of
Pensilvania proposing to surrender to H.M. the powers of Govern-
240
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Feb. 25.
St. James's.
Feb. 27.
Feb. 28.
Whitehall.
ment wherewith he is invested, and I have also perus'd the grant
of that Govt. to him by King Charles II, with other deeds relating
to Mr. Penn's title thereto, and to the Government of the tract of
land on Delaware River and Bay now call'd the Town or Colony
of New Castle alias Delaware, and he has made out to me his
title thereto, and according to your Lordp's. commands, I have
prepar'd a draught of a surrender of those powers from Mr. Penn
and others in whom the legal estate is under him to H.M. reserving
to Mr. Penn his right to the soil of those Colonys. In the Letters
Patents of King Charles II there are granted to Mr. Penn all
mines of gold and silver in Pensilvania, wch. he says he cannot
surrender to the Crown, having made sevl. grants thereof to sevl.
people, wch. are not in his power, and therefore the surrender of
them is not in the draught prepar'd, altho' if it be insisted on he
may surrender and assign what is not granted. There is likewise
an instrument prepar'd for H.M. accepting the said surrender ;
and in it Mr. Penn is an humble suitor to H.M. that she would
be pleas'd thereby to declare, that she will take the people of his
persuasion as well as other ye inhabitants of those Colonys into
H.M. protection. I do not observe that there is any provision
made for ye support of the Govt. there by any Act of Assembly,
or otherwise, without wch. the Government will be a charge to
H.M. But the Council of Trade and Plantations in their report
have represented that Mr. Penn affirms he dos not doubt, but
ye Assembly will readily make provision for the same ; and he
acquaints me that the fines and forfeitures there, wch. have been
and may be apply'd hereto are considerable. Signed, Edw.
Northey. Endorsed, Reed, (from ye Treasury) Read 30th Aug.,
1715. 2pp. [C.O. 5, 1265. No. 5 ; and 5, 1292. pp. 466-468.]
332. H.M. licence of leave of absence for 12 months to Lt.
General Walter Hamilton, upon his petition, for the recovery of
his health. Countersigned, Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp.
129, 130 ; and 152, 39. No. 123.]
333. Deposition of William Martin. The duty upon liquors
imported annually into Antigua does not amount to more than
600 currt. money of that Island. Deponent would not purchase
the profits of the liquor office there at any greater expectancy.
Signed, Wm. Martin. Endorsed, Reed. Read March 3, 17f'.
f p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 105.]
334. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. In
obedience to your Majesty's Order in Council of 13th Dec. last,
we have considered the complaints against Edw. Jones, etc., and
have seen the records of nine several convictions offered in proof
of some of the Articles against him, some of which convictions
are for cruelty, extortion, illegal and arbitrary proceedings in the
execution of his office and as your Majesty is pleased to direct,
that we do not admit any proofs to be made against the said
records, we shall not trouble your Majesty with the other articles,
these nine being sufficient to render him unfit to serve your
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 241
1712.
Majesty etc. Eecommend Mr. Wm. Hyde as Secretary and Pro-
vost Marshal of Bermuda in his stead. If pp. [C.O. 37, 28.
No. 10.]
March 1. 335. Governor Hunter to the Council of Trade and Plan-
New York, tations. Encloses following proposals. As to the first, I am apt
to think such a vessel would be of great service here with a ship of
better force, and that she may be built on reasonable terms, but
whether she can be built without a Parliamentary fund, or whether
the concession proposed for naming the Commander here will be
given way to, your Lordships will be better judges. The other
proposals carry with them such persuasive reasons (I mean
those for saving the publick money) that I could heartily wish
the experiment was made, the expences can't be much and the
consequences may be so good that I hope your Lordships will
take them into your consideration, and if you think them of any
moment that you will be pleased to obtain H.M. commands
thereon. I must again beg your Lordships to signify H.M.
pleasure concerning the gentlemen of the Council of Jersey whom
I desired to have removed, etc. Your Lordships may guess my
uneasiness at having heard nothing from your Lordships since last
summer, neither have advice of the payment of any of my bills
on account of the Palatines, but I go on with the work as if I had,
having (as your Lordships well know) H.M. commands to that
effect, etc. P.S. Inclosed I send two Acts passed in Jersey
for levying money etc. for the expedition against Canada, and for the
currency of bills of credit, neither of which want any remark.
I likewise send the last Minutes of Council, etc. Signed, Ro.
Hunter. Endorsed, Reed. 10th April, Read Aug. 6th, 1712.
1 p. Enclosed,
335. i. Copy of Address of the principal merchants and
traders of New York to Governor Hunter. The said
merchants and traders being fully satisfyed of your
Excellency's generous inclinations to encourage the
trade and navigation of this province, of which they
have manifest proofs, not only by the assistance your
Excellency hath given them, but that dureing your
Excellency's administration they have been freed from
all unjust and unfair molestations therein, but to their
great griefe the same has not had its desired effects by
reason that dureing this present warr this coast has
been very much annoyed by a number of small privateers,
who by the advantage of their oars and shoal water
keep out of the reach of H.M. ships of warr appointed
for the guarding of the same, whereby this Province[s]
is deprived, of the principal benefit H.M. designed in
sending them hither, the dismal examples we have
had not only of our vessels being taken on the coast,
but even out of our very harbours are evident proof
thereof, etc. Recommend Col. Heathcote's scheme for
a small galley to be provided for guarding the coast,
and pray H.E. to request H.M. to sanction the com-
Wt. 26089. C.P. 16.
242 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
missioning of such a frigate, v. N.Y. Docs. V. p. 306.
Endorsed as preceding. 1 p.
335. ii. Col. Heathcote's scheme for building and subsisting
a galley and frigate at New York as H.M. ships of war
to guard the coasts of New York and New Jersey, more
effectively and at less cost, etc. If pp. Set out, N.Y.
Docs. V. pp. 307, 308. q.v.
335. iii. Col. Heathcote's scheme for raising Naval Stores.
Set out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 308-310. q.v. 2 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1050. Nos. 50, 50 i.-iii. ; and (without en-
closures) 5, 1123. pp. 27-29.]
March 1. 336. Memorandum of preceding letter. \ p. Enclosed,
336. i. Copy of an Act of New Jersey for the better recovery
of H.M. quit-rents. Endorsed, Reed. April 10, 1712,
Read March 19, 17 jf. f p.
336. ii. Copy of an Act of New Jersey to prevent soldiers and
sailors from deserting H.M. service, and servants or
slaves deserting their masters or mistresses. Same en-
dorsement. mhpp. [C.O. 5, 970. Nos. 156, 156 i. ii.]
March 1. 337. Governor Hunter to the Lord Bishop of [? London].
Complaint of the factious behaviour of Mr. Vesy, Rector of Trinity
Church, and other clergy in the province of New York, etc. Set out,
N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 310-312, q.v. Endorsed, Reed. June 5,
1712. Copy. 10 pp. Enclosed,
337. i. Governor Hunter to John Chamberlayne, Secretary
of the Society for propagating the Gospel in foreign
parts. Feb. 25, 17||. Describes the factious and
malicious behaviour of some of the clergy. Set out,
N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 312-317, q.v. Copy. 14 pp.
337. ii. Col. Morris to John Chamberlayne. On the same.
Set out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 318-323, q.v. Copy
(incomplete). 18 pp.
337. iii. Copy of an Address from the Clergy of New York to
Governor Hunter. Set out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 325,
326, q.v. 4 pp.
337. iv. Governor Hunter to the Rev. Mr. Poyer, New York,
Jan. 26, \1\\. Set out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 326, 327,
q.v. Copy. 2 pp.
337. v. Mr. Poyer to Governor Hunter. Jamaica (N.Y.)
Jan. 30, 17-j^. Reply to preceding. Set out, N.Y. Docs.
V. p. 327. Copy. 3 pp.
337. vi. The case of the Church at Jamaica. Set out, N.Y.
Docs. V. p. 328. Copy. 2 pp.
337. vii. Judgment in the, case of the Rev. Mr. Poyer v.
Churchwardens of Jamaica. Set out, N.Y. Docs. V.
pp. 328, 329. Copy. 1| pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. Nos.
46, 46 i.-vii.]
March 5. 338. Stephen Duport to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Petitions, in behalf of Capt. Ralf Willett, that he may be
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
243
1712.
appointed to the Council of St. Christophers in the room of John
Peteres, deed., he having a good estate in that Island, and being
in every way qualified to serve H.M. etc. Endorsed, Reed. 5th,
Read 20th March, 17 [|. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 106 ; and 153,
11. p. 449.]
March 5. 339. Lords Proprietors of Carolina to Col. Spotswood, Lt.
Craven House. Governor of Virginia. In the several accounts we have receiv'd
relating to the great disorders and insurrections that have of late
happen'd in the province of North Carolina, we have constantly
been inform'd of your good offices and friendly endeavours to
appease those commotions and to reconcile the inhabitants -to
Mr. Hyde their lawful Governor. On Tuesday last we receiv'd
a letter from you dated July 27, 1711 (by what accident it came
no sooner to our hands we can't tell) wherein you give us an acct.
that by your kind and timely assistance of Mr. Hyde and his
Council with the marines from your guard ships and your good
management, the tumults were quell'd and peace and tranquility
in a great measure settled and established amongst H.M. subjects
in that part of the Province. We therefore take this opportunity
to return you our hearty thanks for this your friendship and the
generous assistance you have been pleas'd to give to that dis-
tracted Government, and to assure you of our constant readiness
on all occasions to do you any service, etc. Signed, Beaufort,
Carteret, M. Ashley, J.Colleton. [C.O. 5, 290. p. 53.]
March 6.
March 8.
St. James's.
March 8.
St. James's.
March 8.
St. James's.
March 8.
St. James's.
340. Commission and Instructions of Arthur Prior, to be
Chief Justice, and Daniel Prior Attorney General, of North
Carolina. Signed, Beaufort, Carteret, Ful. Skipwith, M. Ashley,
J. Colleton, J. Danson. [C.O. 5, 290. pp. 54, 55.]
341 . Order of Queen in Council. Repealing Act of Barbados
to render more effective certain legacies bequeathed by Capt. Williams,
etc.(v. Jan. 18). Signed, William Blathwayt. Endorsed, Reed.
25th, Read 31st Oct., 1712. If pp. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 95 ; and
29, 12. pp. 439, 440.]
342. Order of Queen in Council. Appointing William Mathew
to the Council of Antego. Signed, William Blathwayt. 1| pp.
[C.O. 5, 11. No. 74.]
343. Order of Queen in Council. Restoring Mr. John Frere
to his precedence in the Council of Barbados, (v. Jan. 17 and 25,
1712). Signed, Ja. Vernon. Endorsed, Reed. Read June 24,
1715. \lpp. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 41 ; and 29, 13. pp. 309, 310.]
344. Order of Queen in Council. Referring back their report
upon the petition of Thomas Simpson and the widow Gandy, (v.
Feb. 21), and also a further petition from the same, to the
Council of Trade and Plantations, who are to consult H.M.
Attorney and Solicitor General therein in order to a further report
to H.M. (v. A.P.C. II. No. 1153). Signed, William Blathwayt.
244
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
March 8.
St. Jago
Delavega.
Endorsed,
Enclosed,
344.
Reed. March 12th, Read Nov. llth, 1712. 1 p.
i. Petition of Thomas Simpson of Jamaica and the
widow of Charles Gandy to the Queen. Pray that the
Act of Jamaica for vesting Finch's estate in trustees to
raise 3800, in order to make good to petitioners that
sum paid down by them in accordance with that Act,
may be confirmed. 5| pp. [C.O. 137, 9. Nos. 73,
73 i. ; and (without enclosure) 138, 13. pp. 407, 408.]
345. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. Acknowledges two letters under the same
cover. Eeplies to enquiries of Oct. 26th : To article (i.) your
Lordships will have received a full answer in the Receiver Gen-
eral's accots., which I have transmitted and shall continue half
yearly, as is required by H.M. Instructions, etc. (ii.) The offices
in this Island, other than Patent offices, are very inconsiderable.
As to publick charges, and the state of the revenue, I referr your
Lops, to my letter of Jan. 19. (iii.) I inclose a list of all the
Patent-offices, etc. I have not as yet found any reason to suspect
that these offices are well enough discharged, at least have received
no complaints of any of them. But as I find in case of mis-
behaviour or insufficiency in any officer which may be appointed,
H.M. by this Instruction has been pleas'd to lodge a sufficient
power in her Governor for the remedy of it. I cannot but take
notice to your Lordps. on this occasion, of an Act lately past here,
and which I now suppose to be under your Lordps. consideration,
to prevent any one person from holding two or more offices of profit
in this Island, which appears to me to be an encroachment on the
Queen's prerogative. This Act will appear to your Lordps. to
be principally intended to provide that the same person shall
not be Secretary and Provost-Marshall ; and I must so far agree
in the reasonableness of it, that those being two of the most
considerable offices, they would be too much for one person :
But, my Lords, the true state of that matter is, as I here set
them down in the list, Mr. Rigby executes Mr. Baber's office, and
Mr. Nichols executes Mr. Rigby's ; and this, it seems, was first
admitted by the late Governor upon Sir Edward Northey's
opinion of the legality of it ; if it be legal I see no inconveniency
in it : H.M. Instructions seeming chiefly to require that the offices
be well executed : and I must do Mr. Rigby the justice to say he
executes the Secretary's Office with general satisfaction : But
however this agree with your Lordps.' judgements, I believe you
will be of opinion that this Act is too general. My Lords, I am
told the offices of Naval Officer and Register of the Admiralty
have ever been in the same person ; and the Secretary's and Clerk
of the Council, unless hindred by some extraordinary circum-
stance ; and in both these there is such affinity and relation that
it seems almost necessary. Besides here are some offices of very
small profits, which are for instance : the Clerk of the Crown,
the Advocate General, the Judges of all Petit-Courts, the several
Coroners, Clerks of the Peace and Clerks of the Market ; all
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 245
1712.
which by the general words of this Act must be in different
persons ; and which I really think, by reason of the scarcity of
people, and especially of persons capable, may be attended with
great inconveniencies. I have troubled your Lops, too long on
this article ; But if it concerns the Prerogative as I think it does,
I hope your Lordps. will excuse it, and represent this Act to H.M.
for her disallowance, (iv.) An account of all Courts, Offices,
etc. I beg your Lops, will excuse me if I suppose this Instruction
to have been given in the infancy of these Colonies, before the
Civil Government was well settled, and the several jurisdictions
established by a Law : There is an Act of this Island for establish-
ing of Courts and directing Marshals' proceedings, which I think
contains all the jurisdictions of the Courts : in which there seems
this notable defect that lands are not extendable here. I take
it that the Bill of Fees now before your Lordps. contains a full
answer to Article (v.) ; and as this bill has been long a framing,
and your Lordps. may have heard much upon the subject, I
shall say but little. I think I should not be altogether just to
the Government I am at present honour'd with, if I did not take
notice to your Lops, that several fees which I am inform'd every
Governor has had, are by this Act taken away ; amongst which
I think none more extraordinary than that which was paid for
the Broad Seal, on all publick attestations, and is now had gratis,
(vi.) The account of the number of inhabitants must be collected
from the several Parish-books, and from the musters of the several
Regiments ; some of which, tho' I have frequently required them,
have not as yet been sent me ; and having given your Lops, my
opinion of the state of this Island more generally in my last letter,
I will desire leave to deferr this till I can get the whole, that I
may then give you but one trouble, (vii.) How many are born,
christen'd and buried ? This I have sent to the Commissary
and have requir'd him to give directions to all the Ministers of
the several parishes, to give me an accot. from time to time ;
but have not been able to obtain it. (viii.) I have not yet
received the accots. of arms etc. from the proper officers, but shall
as soon as possible endeavour to comply with this article, (ix.)
Your Lops, will I hope before this can come to hand, have received
the account of negroes etc. at large, which I have sent as certified
to me by the Naval Officer ; and your Lops, will observe that
there is no proportion between the import of negroes by the
Company and separate traders ; the latter so much exceeding ;
and indeed I cannot but acquaint your Lops, that it seems to be
the universal opinion both of merchants and planters here that
an exclusive trade to Africa would be extremely prejudicial to
them, (x.) Refers to letter of Jan. 19. By another opportunity
I will send the plans of what additional fortifications are intended
to be made, and I shall then be better able to inform your Lops,
what ordinances will be necessary. As to improvements by
trade, I am told the flourishing time of this Colony was when the
Assiento was settled here ; which the French have now the
advantage of. If a favourable opportunity offers, (which pro-
bably may at the conclusion of peace) I cannot doubt but
246 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
your Lordps. will contribute as much as you can to the re-estab-
lishment of it here upon a like bottom ; the advantage whereof
will center in great Britain.
Acknowledges letter of Nov. 22 and Act relating to duties. We
are in hopes what has been further represented to your Lops,
on that head will obtain the same relief e to the bonds. I shall
observe your Lops.' directions as to the Assembly's pretended
right of adjournment, if ever they be so unwise as to put it to
the tryal ; which I hope they will not. And here I think myself
in justice obliged to acquaint your Lops, that Mr. Brodrick the
present Speaker of the Assembly, then a Member of the House,
strenuously opposed that proceeding, and asserted H.M. pre-
rogative ; and I beg leave to take this opportunity of recom-
mending him to your Lops.' favor that he may be restored to
his place in the Council here, which I am pers waded will be for
H.M. service ; and as that is what chiefly induces me to this
recommendation, so it will be the strongest argument with your
Lordps. in his favour. I have had a private information that some
Acts that have been transmitted to your Lops, from hence, have
not had the seal affixed to them ; which tho your Lops, mention to
have under consideration, you are so obliging as not to take
notice of. I have examin'd into that matter, and cannot tell
where to fix the omission ; but I must bear the blame to your
Lordps. I have endeavour'd however to retrieve the mistake as
soon as may be, by sending duplicates of two Acts, which were
the only indefinite Acts past that session : the others being
expired I thought immaterial. I am glad your Lordps. approve
of what I have done in rejecting the cartel offered by the French :
you will be confirmed in the reasonableness of my having so done,
when I acquaint you that we take many more French prisoners
than they do British. I am likewise with great satisfaction
to acquaint your Lordps. that the arrival of several ships lately
with provisions from Europe, and the goodness of the season
here, both as to sugar and plantation provisions, have already in
a great measure removed all complaints mention'd in my former,
in relation to the then scarcity thereof. Signed, A. Hamilton.
Endorsed, Eecd. May 3, 1712, Read July 17, 1713. 7 pp.
Enclosed,
345. i. List of patent-offices in Jamaica.
Office. Patentee. Office Executed by,
Attorney General William Brodrick the Patentee
Receiver-General Leonard Compere Charles Chaplin
Secretary John Baber Richd. Rigby
Naval Officer William Norris the Patentee
Clerk of the Grand Robert Clowes Matthew Gregory
Court
Cl. Cancel. & patents Arthur Wynter Francis Melling
Provost Marshal Richd. Rigby Harvey Nicholls
Clerk of the Crown John Guey John Guey
Same endorsement. \ p. [C.O. 137, 10. Nos. 7, 7 i. ;
and (without enclosure) 138, 13. pp. 450-460.]
March 9 346. M. Latouch to Mademoiselle Budan et Cie. Acknow-
and ledges letters and cargo received by the Due d' Anjou, which
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
247
1712.
April 15
(N.S.)
Martinique.
March 11.
St. James's.
March 11.
Treasury
Chambers.
March 12.
Whitehall.
arrived safely in spite of 8 English ships which have been watching
the island and taken a number of vessels, etc. A business letter
dealing with accounts, disposal of merchandize, sailings, etc. for
the Canary Islands ami St. Malo, etc. ami from the South Seas.
Signed, S. Latouch. French. 15| pp. [C.O. 166, 1. No. 5.]
347. H.M. Warrant appointing William Mathew to one of
the two vacancys in the Council of Antegoa. Countersigned,
Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 132, 133.]
348. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. The Lord High Treasurer
refers enclosed to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their
report, etc. Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed. Read
April 29, 1712. Addressed. I p. Enclosed,
348 i. Copy of petition of Robert Lee, executor of the Earl
of Stirling, for arrears due, etc. v. C.S.P. 1703. No.
142 i. . 2| pp.
348. ii. Copy of deed, signed by James Duke of York, Nov.
1.0, 1674, assigning to Lord Stirling 300 per annum
out of the profits of the Province of New York in return
for the surrender of his interests therein. 4 pp. [C.O.
5, 1050. Nos. 38, 37, 37 i. ; and (covering letter and
enclosure i. only) 5, 1122. pp. 493-495.]
349. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Refer
to memorial of merchants of Maryland Feb. 15. Recommend that
Mr. Tobias Bowles be appointed to that Government, he having
lived there several years, and being recommended by some of the
principal merchants trading to Maryland, and others, as a person
of integrity, ability, and well vers'd in the trade and constitution
of that Province. We recommend him as a person of known
loyalty, and well affected to your Majesty's Government, every
way qualifyed to serve your Majesty in that trust. [C.O. 5,
727. pp. 312, 313.]
350. Jos. French and Isaac Royall to Michael Ayon. If we
were sure a letter by this opportunity would come safe to your
hands you might have expected a full narration of affairs since
the arrivall of our present Generall [=Governor Douglas, Ed.],
but as it goes first to Nevis by a vessell in whom goes Lt. Genl.
Hamilton to complaine against the Generall, doubt its mis-
carriage, for wee are obliged to be as concise as wee can and shall
only say that never were greater assureance given to a people
worse performed then has been by our Generall to us att his first
arrivall even till of late, oaths promises and assureances were
plentifully past that justice should be done for our deare late
Generall's murther. The soldyers sent up from Leeward, force
writ for to Barbadoes, a Jamaica privateer detained who had on
board 180 men they and their captaine brave true hearty men,
but when it came to the push the mountaine produced a mole,
there was nothing more then who gives most as if Parke's blood
248
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
March 13.
New York.
March 15.
Bermuda.
March 15.
St. James's.
March 15.
Whitehall.
was to be sold by auction, so that from Clem the Butcher's cow
vallue 12 to others of 1600 as it is said in the whole it cannot
amount to less then 20,000 in Bills of Exchange money sugar
cotton timber and bonds etc. never was bribery so barefaced.
Indeed to amuze the world three or four of the fagg end were
taken up and committed for five or six weekes but are since out
on bayle for which they are no doubt well squeezed. Wee know
his Instructions and the mercye the Queen had allowed the
murtherers, and if according to those Instructions he had taken
up the principalls to such a number and them to have sent home
since they could not be tryed here, wee had clapt our hands on
our mouths, but to turn the deepest tragedy that has been known
into a comedy is what touches us to the quick, indeed, they have
nothing to boast of being so well squeezed that 'tis beleived
some of them will never retreive themselves. Wee are desireous
that this affaire should be well represented att home for as you
observed in your letters you expected 'twould be shamm'd off,
hee is now the odium of both partyes, etc. Signed, Jos. French,
Isaac Royall. Endorsed, Reed, (from Mr. Perry) June 6th, 1712.
Copy. I p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 118; and 153, 11. pp. 470-472.]
351. Francis Harison to [? the Earl of Dartmouth], Refers
to his recommendation of him to Governor Hunter and begs for
some promotion. Signed, Fra. Harison. 2 pp. {C.O. 5, 1085.
No. 10.]
352. Lt. Governor Bennett to [? the Earl of Dartmouth].
Refers to last letter of Oct. 16. Recommends Ensign Walter
Mitchel to be Lieutenant, in the place of Lt. John Davis, of H.M.
Independent Company of Foot, and George Tucker ensign.
Signed, Ben Bennett. Holograph. I p. [0.0.37,38. No. 11.]
353. H.M. Warrant appointing Edward Warner to the Council
of Antegoa. Countersigned, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. Read,
April 2, 1712. Addressed. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No.
108 ;and 153, 11. p. 452 ; and 324, 32. p. 133.]
354. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. Report upon Lord Orkney's memorial (v. Jan. 21).
Upon the Assembly's having appropriated a fund for 5195 for
ye building of such a house, which was thought would have been
sufficient, the Governors were restrained from receiving the 150
per annum usually allow'd for house-rent. But in consideration
that the said house is not yet habitable, and that the Governors
and Col. Spots wood (as we are informed) have had leave to
receive the said house rent for two years, and that the said rent
has always been paid out of the duty of 2s. per hhd. on tobacco
exported, which is appropriated to the use of the Governmt. there,
we have no objection why Col. Spots wood may not be allowed
to receive the said house rent for 2 years longer, if it shall not
be made habitable before that time. [C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 396,
397 ; and 5, 1335. No. 169.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 249
1712.
March 21. 355. John Wickham to [? Mr. Perry]. Since our happyness
Antigua. depends in some measure on your makeing proper application,
I can't but lett you know the state of our affaires ete. Our
Generall arrived here July 7th. In regard of H.M. Com-
mission and the so long wisht for releife of a gent, we thought
sent from Heaven to us, he was received with all the solemnity
our Island could afford and treated by all the Loyalists with
wonderfull respect, etc. After some stay H.E. embarqued for
the other Islands, severall of our freinds shewed their zeale and
true loyalty by waiteing on H.E. thither. During his stay at
the Leward Islands, he writ severally to all or most of our freinds
and particularly to our Lt. Governor Yeamans, allwayes signifye-
ing to us his sincere intention to doe the Queene justice etc.,
which incouragements and the dislike of that barbarous action
engaged us to raize 500 sterl. and gave the Generall our bills
upon his promise to send to his brother Sr. John St. Leidger (in
conjunction with you) to represent our case to H.M. with all the
aggravateing circumstances that that barbarous murther was
long designed before it was putt in execution, his late H.E. being
shott att and once wounded with the addition of all manner of
opprobrious language, etc. During the Generall's absence our
Assembly still carryed on their heat and shewed their dislike
of the present Government as well as the former by absolutely
refusing to quarter H.M. soldyers notwithstanding they were
often addressed to it by the Governour in Council, which the
Governour signifyed to H.E. and in answer H.E. writ both to the
Governour and Major Buer to gett subscriptions for the releife
of those poor men and further that he would look upon those
persons that refused it to be as one of the rebells and should be
treated accordingly, which menaceing language wee none of us
wanted being hearty wishers to princely Government, therefore
wee freely subscribed for fourscore barrells of beefe and as much
flower for the releife of the soldyers and severall gents, that had
neither (it being at that time very scarce) subscribed for a yoke
of oxen and all sorts of Indian provision. Notwithstanding all
this the Generall (as it was generally thought and not without
very good reason) did receive bonds for 5000 from Mr. Thomas
Trant, who was sent by the rebells to Nevis to negotiate that
affaire with H.E. After H.E.'s returne to this Island, he still
promised to make us all easye and do the Queene justice, which
wee had very little reason to beleive, his proceedings being
generally disliked, beginning first with some little alteration in
the Militia and suspended Mr. Lightfoot out of the Councill
which I beleive he had sufficient reason to doe, soon after he
issued out writts for the apprehending of some of the rebells,
beginning (except Capt. Paynter) with some of the least in the
Government extorting from them either money or bonds from
very great summes even to 20, collecting by those measures
(as is generally reported) from 30 to 50,000 in negroes, bills of
exchange, plate, ready money and sugar, an estate fitter for a
nobleman then a breviate major who sells the Queen's mercye
by auction, which proceeding you may judge if it's not a mortifica-
250 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
tion (beyond surviveing) to us poor Loyalists, nay, and farther
upon H.M. birthday issued out a general pardon only excludeing
Thomas Kerby that fled to Barbadoes and Capt. Paynter, Capt.
Kerr, William Hamilton, and John King, which four were under
confinement and admitted to bayle, tho' our Law sayes those
that are guilty of high treason are not bailable and was the
opinion of all the loyall part of the Councill. On H.M. birthday
H.E. made a small treat but none of the loyalists anticipated of
his dinner save one or two of the Queen's officers, but towards
night some of them went to drink H.M. health and mett with
some of the gent, rebells there who imediately insulted them,
particularly Mr. Phillips (who is a very scoundrell) abuseing and
askeing Major Royall (even before H.E.) where's the result of all
your scandalous depositions since the Generall has given us a
pardon, and Capt. Lyle (Commander of H.M.S. Dyamond) who
joyned with the faction imediately after his arrivall to this
station, drew his sword and shakeing it over Mr. French calling
him severall times rascall and villaine and tho' he made his
application to the Generall, he tooke no notice of it, only excused
it by his being in drink, and notwithstanding the Generall saw
the consequences of his generall pardon, yttt he (the next day)
issued out a proclamation, declareing that whoever should call
any of those gents, either rebells or murtherers, or should inveigh
or use any language tending that way, the offender should suffer
thirty dayes imprisonment and 20 fine to be imediately levyed
on his goods and chatties, and if none his body to be kept in close
custody till found or paid, which none but such truly loyall
subjects and hearty well wishers to H.M. as wee are could beare.
If the tenure of our Government is such that wee must be bought
and sold as the Generall for the time being shall think fitt, itt
being generally granted to some nobleman and he farms it out
to the Lord knows who, I can't see but there will be a great deale
of male administration, to prevent which (if H.M. wont take some
care of us) will remove to some more auspicious part of H.M.
Government. By the Statutes of England, if a man kill another
in what wee call a fair duell, yett he shall stand ye judgment of
his peers, and its ods if doth not suffer death, much more do I
wonder that H.M. Generall should (after a rebellious manner)
be invaded in his own house, and there with H.M. soldyers
barbarously murthered, yett receive the benefitt of a pardon
before conviction, etc. Quotes Coke. We have not only laboured
under the difficultyes of anarchiall power (the scum of the people
getting into the Assembly) but under the miserys of a severe
drowth, the just judgments of an angry God, whereby a great
many people were reduced to sad extremityes, and our trade being
quite ruin'd, which no doubt is oweing to the late Rebellion, and
the villanye of the Surveyor Generall of H.M. Customes, Mr.
Edward Perrye, who takes all designing measures to entrapp
the unthinking master of the merchants shipp, bring him under
a seizure, which proceedings has almost scared away all trade
from this Island. I am heartily sorry that wee the Loyalists
should have any occasion to complaine of the administration of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 251
1712.
H.M. Generall when we have hitherto supported (to our power)
H.M. authority in this Collonye, but it's naturall for the aggrieved
to complaine. Wee neither desire riches nor honour of H.M., but
on the contrary only justice and destine tion in him of which wee
daily meet with insults and affronts, and if wee apply ourselves
to H.E. wee can have no redress but huggs the rebells and makes
them his bosome freinds, giveing credence to all rascally storyes
and base insinuations and never will produce his authority,
whereby wee are entirely robbed of all measures for our justifica-
tion, and threatens us with irons or to fight us, which if he did
not know wee dare not doe he would not be so forward, he's a
man of so little honour that he forfeits his word daily with us.
After his arrivall he encouraged us to prosecute those gents.,
but wee have since found that it was only to informe himselfe,
who were the principles that he might make his advantage, which
he did so much to our disadvantage that he even discovered
the most secrett of our councills and advice to them, leaveing
us a marke to their envy and villanye. There's one of his noblest
actions I had like to have forgott, that is, after all his fair pro-
mises of freindshipp to our Lt. Governor Yeamans, he while he
was att Leward promised to suspend him and give his comission
to Govr. Pearne of Mountserratt, but not dareing to doe so
barefaced an injustice, he used all his endeavours to collect what
depositions he could against him, but before he could obtaine
them, Col. Pearne sent him word he was a man of no honour.
Some of the rebells who were of the Cabinett Councill in this
affaire (it's thought it's Col. Watkins, who murthered a man
under a table before he was concerned in the late murther) asking
some of their party if they could not sweare something against
the Govr. and receiveing but a faint answer, asked them farther
if they could not blaspheeme, for that perjury was but blasphemy
which God would easily forgive. If any such villanous deposi-
tions should come home, I doubt not but the Court of England
will take particular notice of them, tho' in the meane time I
beleive the Governour will be suspended, which if he is there can
be no greater misfortune befall this unhappy Island, he being
knowrie to be a gent, of integrity, justice, clemencye and know-
ledge in the Laws, our very foundation being entirely oweing
to him etc. The Genii, to frighten the people into a complyance
gave out that he would encamp up and downe the country and
burne and destroy all their houses, canes etc. which had its
desired effect, so that they freely gave him their money, bonds,
plate etc., as I have already mentioned, and Mr. Edward Chester
junr., he made him pay 300 sterl. for selling that quantity of
cuttlasses to the rebells in order to arme their negroes, which he
said was levying warr against the Queen, and among all the
rest of his presents, he condescended to take a cow from Clem
the Butcher, who was the villaine that broke our late Generall's
back after he was wounded, etc. Signed, John Wickham. En-
dorsed, Reed, (from Mr. Perry) June 6, 1712. 2 closely written
pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No. UQ;and 153, 11. pp. 473-483.]
252
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
March 21. 356. Mr. Secretary St. John to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following, in order that a copy of the
letter therein mentioned may be laid before the House. Signed,
H. St. John. Endorsed, Reed. 21st, Read 24th March, 17f|-.
1 p. Enclosed,
356. i. Order of the House of Commons that an Address be
presented to H.M. that she will direct an account to
be laid before this House of the effective men in the
regiment of Col. Francis Alexander, late Col. Jones's,
in the Leeward Islands, for the two last years, and that
a copy of a letter from the Governor of the Leeward
Islands to the Council of Trade and Plantations relating
to the same be also laid before the House. Signed,
Paul Jodrell. Cl. Dom. Com. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 152,
9. Nos. 107, 107 i. ; and 153, 11. pp. 450, 451.]
March 22. 357. Mr. Secretary St. John to the Council of Trade and
Whitehall. Plantations. Encloses following. Signed, H. St. John. En-
dorsed, Reed. Read 24th March, 1712. 1 p. Enclosed,
357. i. Address of the House of Commons to the Queen,
with H.M. order that the Address from Jamaica in
June last relating to the trade to Africa may be laid
before the House. Signed, Paul Jodrell. C. Dom. Com.
1 p. [C.O. 388, 15. Nos. 49, 49 i. ; and 389, 22. pp.
478, 479.]
March 25. 358. Petty Expenses of the Board of Trade Dec. 25, 1711
March 25, 1712. Total 29 12s. Id. Stationer's account, 18
195. 4d. Postage, 3 16s. Id. 4 pp. [C.O. 388, 76. Nos.
129-131 ; and 389, 37. pp. 38, 39.]
March 25. 359. Col. Nicholson's Memoranda for the Earl of Dartmouth,
(i.) That H.M. send an order to Governor Hunter to summon as
many of the principal Indians of the Five Nations, and present
Mr. Andrews the Missionary to them, acquainting them that he
is sent by H.M. according to their request, (ii.) That the belt
of wampoon they sent by me, H.M. graciously accepted, (iii.)
That care will be taken by the Society [for propagating the Gospel]
to send another missionary the next year, to officiate in the other
chapel which shall be built in ye Onodawgus' country, (iv.)
That Govr. Hunter make a present in such manner as he shall
think fit to ye Indians, who upon this occasion shall come to him,
out of those presents sent the last year, (v.), and order one of
the best interpreters to go and be with Mr. Andrews. That he
appoint such officers and number of soldiers as he shall think
proper for the guard of the Fort, (vi.) That H.M. give com-
munion plate, linnen, surplice, furniture for the pulpits and read-
ing desks in the two chapels etc. His Grace of Canterbury told
me he would lay out 20 guineas for those uses, (vii.) That
H.M. give her Royal Arms, such as are usually put up in churches,
painted on canvas to be set up in the Chapels, and six more to be
set up in the chief castles of the Six Nations, as likewise a quantity
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
253
March 27.
Whitehall.
1712.
of H.M. effigies, and of her Royal Arms, in print to be distributed
among the Indians, (viii.) That H.M. signify to the Indians,
the continuance of her royal favour and protection, and of her
being very well satisfied with their zeal and forwardness the last
summer, (ix.) There is in the hands of Mr. Micajah Perry,
mercht. in London, 130 towards the charge of building the Fort,
chapels, etc. Signed, Fr. Nicholson. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 106.]
[March 27.] 360. Col. Richard Scott to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Formerly a member of the Council of Barbados where
his estate is very considerable, petitioner came to England for
his health in 1703, having H.M. licence therefor, which expired
some years since. Being now bound thither, prays for a man-
damus that he be restored to his place and precedency in the
Council upon the first vacancy. Endorsed, Reed. Read March 27,
1712. ip. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 85 ; and 29, 12. ^.410,411.]
361. The Earl of Dartmouth to Governor Hunter. The
Society for the propagation of the Gospel in Foreign parts,
having come to several resolutions in order to answer the great
design of their establishment, as you will see by the enclosed
minutes which have been laid before the Queen by my Lord
Archbishop of Canterbury, H.M. highly approves of what is
therein proposed, and as she has already given directions for
providing the plate and other things desired of Her, she is willing
to do everything else on Her part that may contribute to so good
an end, you will therefore summon as many of the principal
Indians of the five Nations as you shall think proper, and acquaint
them, that H.M. has, in complyance with their request sent Mr.
Andrews as a missionary to instruct them in the principles of
the Christian religion, that he will be followed very soon by
another person of the same character, and that H.M. will, on
all occasions, give those people continual marks of Her royal
favour and protection. The Indians having sent H.M. a belt
of wampoon, you are to lett them know that she has kindly
accepted it, and at the same time you will make a present to such
of them as shall come to you, out of those things which were sent
you last year, and assure them of H.M. satisfaction in the zeal
they shewed for Her service in the last summer's expedition.
When the Fort is built, you will send such a number of soldiers
thither as you shall think necessary for its security, and appoint
a good interpreter to attend the Missionary. As the quiet and
repose of H.M. subjects under your Government seem in a great
measure to depend upon a good understanding with those Indians,
I do not doubt but you will take the best care you can to cultivate
a friendship with them. Signed, Dartmouth. Annexed,
361. i. Duplicate of No. 359.
361. ii. Duplicate of C.S.P. 1710. No. 210. [C.O. 324, 32.
pp. 136-141.]
March 28. 362. The Earl of Dartmouth to Governor Douglas. I have
Whitehall, received the favour of yours of Nov. 28th, and am glad to find
254
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
you have so far quieted the minds of the people, and taken such
prudent measures by the regulations you have made, as not to
be under any apprehensions that the publick peace may be
disturbed. Whenever you think it for the advantage of the
service that any alterations should be made in the Councill, or
promotion among the officers, H.M. thinks fit that you should
send hither their names, and the reason upon which your opinion
is grounded : H.M. will then order her pleasure to be signifyed
concerning them, being determined for the future, not to confirm
any changes that are made, without her previous approbation.
The other particulars of your letter are under consideration, etc.
Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. Read Nov. 21, 1712.
Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 139 ; and 153, 12. pp. 44, 45 ;
and 324, 32. p. 141.]
April y 1 ^. 363. Mr. Whitworth, Ambassador to the Czar of Muscovy,
Petersburgh. to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses following.
Signed, C. Whitworth. Endorsed, Reed. 12th, Read 13th May,
1712. 1 p. Enclosed,
363. i. The method of preparing tar in Muscovy. 2 pp.
[C.O. 5, 1050. Nos. 40, 40 i. ; and 5, 1122. pp. 496-
499.]
April 2.
Whitehal.
364. Wm. Popple to Josiah Burchet. Encloses " the usual
heads of inquiry and additional Instructions for the Commodore
of the Newfoundland squadron," etc. [C.O. 195, 5. p. 265.]
April 2. 365. Mr. Secretary St. John to the Council of Trade and
Whitehall. Plantations. H.M. commands you to take into consideration
and transmit to me your opinion upon the two following points,
(i.) What the consequence may be of allowing the French a
general right to fish and to dry their fish in the sea of Newfound-
land, and on that coast, as they have hitherto done, together
with a liberty of settling and fortifying on the Island of Cape
Breton ; they on the other hand making an absolute cession to
H.M. of Nova Scotia with Annapolis Royal, and of the Island
of Newfoundland with Placentia. (ii.) Whether it may be for
the advantage of Great Britain, Nova Scotia and Annapolis
Royal remaining in H.M. hands, that all the fortifications in
Newfoundland be demolished, and that no others be suffered to
be erected there, or in any of the adjacent Islands. Your Lops,
will please to let me have your answer as soon as possible, it
being necessary to write abroad upon this subject at the end of
the week. Signed, H. St. John. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read 4th
April, 1712. If pp. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 10 ; and 195, 5. pp.
265, 266.]
April 2. 366. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Request payment of enclosed account of office
expenses and salaries, Christmas 1711 to Lady Day 1712. [C.O.
389, 37. pp. 39-41.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
255
1712.
April 2.
Whitehall.
April 3.
St. James's.
April 3.
London.
April 4.
[April 4.]
367. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. This Commission is in arrear 2| years at Lady Day
last, which wee are informed is not the case of any other Com-
mission or Office depending on the Civil list, and in regard the
nature of the buissiness requires a constant attendance and
application, wee submit the case of the said arrear to your Lord-
ship's favourable consideration. [C.O. 389, 37. p. 42.]
368. Order of Queen in Council The Council of Trade and
Plantations are to lay before the House of Commons their Re-
presentation (v. C.S.P. Dec. 1711) as to the distribution of the
grant in aid of Nevis and St. Christophers, and the petition of
the agents for the sufferers there (enclosed) (v. A.P.C. II. No.
1069). Signed, Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. 9th, Read
10th April, 1712. 1 p. Enclosed,
368. i. Petition of Joseph Martin, Rowland Tryon,
Richd. Merryweather, Stephen Duport and James
Campbell, Agents for the sufferers in Nevis and St.
Christophers, to the Queen. By an Act passed the
last sessions 103,003 11s. 4d. was granted for the
relief of such sufferers as have resettled, or shall resettle
their Plantations. The Council of Trade acquaint petit-
ioners that the Act needs some explanation before they
can make any distribution (v. Dec. 1711). Many of
the sufferers have been hitherto supported on credit
founded on the hopes of this bounty, and others are now
returned, or returning, upon the faith of that Act.
But unless some assurance can be given them by the
Fleet, which is now upon departure, that the said bounty
will speedily be made effectual, it's to be feared that
great numbers of them, will be yet forced to leave the
Islands ; and the enemy (who well know the consequence
of those Islands to your Majesty's revenue and the trade
of your Kingdom) will not fail then to improve such
an advantage. Pray that the report of the Council of
Trade may be now laid before the House of Commons
for explanation and recommended for dispatch. Copy.
2| pp. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 109, 109 i. : and 153, 11.
pp. 453-455.]
369. Laurence Galdy to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Recommends Col. Ezeckiell Gomersall for the Council of Jamaica.
Signed, Laurence Galdy. Endorsed, Reed. 3rd, Read 9th April,
1712. 2pp. [C.O. 137, 9. No. 64.]
370. Copy of Journal of the Council of Trade and Plantations,
concerning Newfoundland. 6 pp. [C.O. 194, 23. No. 5.]
371. Capt. Moody's report upon the questions concerning
Newfoundland, April 2nd. Agrees with Representation of April
5th. Signed, J. Moody. Endorsed, Reed. Read April 4, 1712.
2pp. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 11.]
256
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
April 5.
Jamaica.
April 5.
April 5.
Whitehall.
372. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Earl of Dartmouth.
Recommends, Mr. Brodrick, Attorney General and Speaker of
the Assembly, to be appointed to the Council, etc. Signed,
A. Hamilton. Holograph. 3 pp. [C.O. 137, 51. No. 59.]
373. Solomon Merrett to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Report upon the questions relating to Newfoundland, April 2.
Agrees with following Representation. Signed, Solomon Merrett.
If pp. Enclosed,
373. i. Considerations in favour of the whole of Newfound-
land, Nova Scotia, and the Fishery on the Banks and
coasts being restored to Great Britain. Concludes :
By the Treaty of commerce we should have the same
liberty to supply France paying the same customs and
dutys as under King Charles I. The laying on a duty
of 5s. a ton on the French shipping which came into
England (which was not -^th of what went from Eng-
land to France) occasioned them to lay the same duty
on ours, was a great discouridgment to our fishing ships
and all others trading to France. And it's most humbly
offerred that if from the date of the Preliminaries or
Articles of Peace, a cessation of hostilities be agreed on,
that all ships and goods taken by us or the enemy shall
be restored to the proprietors in the same condition
they were when taken, it will prevent the fitting out of
privateers, and the taking of many merchant ships,
especially those from the West Indies, and long voyages.
For the merchants the last peace suffered very much,
as the Articles of Reswick gave such large liberty to
privateers by making peace at several times and in
several latitudes, whereby they were incouridged to
send out their privateers, which took more merchants
ships within two months before and after the date of
that Peace, than in nine months before, etc. \% pp.
The whole endorsed, April 5, 1712. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos.
12, 12 i.]
374. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary St.
John. Reply to queries of April 2. We take leave to represent
if the French make a cession of Newfoundland and Isles adjacent,
and yet reserve the privilege of fishing on that coast, and drying
on the shore, they will thereby have the same advantage in the
trade of dry fish as H.M. subjects, and the good end of our having
Newfoundland restor'd to us will be defeated. As to their
settling and fortifying on the Island Cape Breton, that Island
has always been esteem'd as part of Nova Scotia and included in
that Governmt., and considering the situation of that Island, the
permitting them to fortify and settle there will give them the
like advantages as if they were allow'd to dry their fish on New-
foundland or the adjacent islands. And here we take leave to
observe that Nova Scotia does comprehend all that the French
call Accadie, and is bounded by the River St. Croix on the west
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 257
1712.
by the sea on the south and east, and by Canada River on the
north and ought to be so describ'd for avoiding future disputes.
We apprehend it may be necessary to maintain the fortifications
now on Newfdland for the protection of our fishery, and the
persons concern'd therein and their effects. [C.O. 195, 5. pp.
267-269.]
April 8. 375. Governor Dudley to the Council of Trade and Plan-
R E f gland ' tations. My last addresses to your Lordships were of Nov. last
past by Capt. Studley in the Norwich the convoy of the mast
fleet wherein were cover'd the years papers (v. Dec. 21st, 1711).
Acknowledges letter of Oct. 26. Continues: The duplicate arriv'd
the 24th March past, and the letter two dayes since. In obedience
to the severall articles therein, I must humbly acquaint your
Lordships that the revenue of both the Provinces, consists of an
impost for goods and merchandise brought in, an excise upon
taverns and retaylers of wine, and liquors, and a land and poll
tax lay'd once. a year and collected accordingly, and it is not
possible to divide it so as to make two accounts of it, either to
discharge the Treasurer or to pay up the Province debts, so as to
make it compleat, but in the session of the Assembly, in May
annually, which session is directed by the Charter. The Treasurer
for the time being, brings in all his accounts, and vouchers, and
it is fairly drawn, and swore to before the Governour, and Mr.
Secretary Addington, Deputy Auditor to Mr. Blathwayt, and
is so sent home to the Treasury, and has been well accepted.
In all other affayres and informations to their Lordships at the
Councill of Trade at my first comeing here, I pursued the methods
of letters every six months and sent them by the best runners
I could get passage by, but were frequently thrown overboard,
as I had directed the commanders in case of their being taken,
and was forced at last wholly to depend on the convoy of the
mast fleet, which comes but once a year, and never yet mis-
carryed. However if your Lordships see meet to command any
other method, for the future I shall strictly obey it. Encloses
lists of officers, Courts, fees, and a copy of the laws as required.
Referring to births and burialls, I have sent circular warrants,
to the Sheriffs of the severall countyes, which are eight in number
in the Massachusets, and one in New Hampshire, which if not
come to hand before this conveyance shall be carefully trans-
mitted the first oppertunity. That your Lordships may under-
stand the state of the defence of the Provinces, if your Lordships
please to look upon the map of the survey of ye country, that
I sent home some years since to the Board, it will be seen that
from Deerfield in the west, to Wells in the east, is the frontier
to the inland of both the Provinces in a range of villages, in this
order, Deerfield, Hadley, Brookfield, Marlboro', Lancaster,
Groton, Dunstable, Dracot, Haveril, Almsbury, Kingstown,
Exeter, Cocheco, Barwick, York, Wells, contayning about 200
miles in length, in each of which I have 10 or 12 of the best houses,
at distances, taken in with stoccadoes, and flanckers, in which
are watches kept and 40 or 50 soldiers besides the inhabitants,
Wt. 26089, C.P.I".
258 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
lodged in them for the defence of each town, who march from town
to town weekly winter and summer, to discover any track of an
approaching enemy, and troopes of horse once a fortnight in the
summer, and foot upon snowshoes in the winter to discover at
a greater distance, which has been so fortunate as often to discover
and repell the enemy when four or five times in this warr they
have come in bodyes of 3 or 400 French and Indians, and often
when lesser partyes, so as we have not lost or deserted one village
since the first eruption nine years since, whereas in former warrs
the Government has drawn in almost all the villiges, above
named for want of the skill of snowshoes, which the people have
gotten since my comeing hither to the terror of Indians, our men
being able to outmarch them, and in the winter I dislodge them
at 100 miles distance, as I have done this winter, by marching
partyes, two consisting of 50 each, and one party of 200, who
came in the last week haveing burnt a settlement of Mounsier
Castiens in the eastward near Panobscot, of 6 or 8 houses two
sloops fitted and furnish'd for a cruise, and taken and burnt a
great quantity of provisions laid up for their voyage, being to be
mann'd with French and Indians. And in the summer (except
these last two years wherein I have in obedience to H.M. com-
mands, sent forces to Portroyal and towards Queebeck) I have
sent partyes of 3 or 400 men to cut up their corn while it was
green, and made them remove to greater distances from us, to
make it more difficult to trouble us, and to shew the Indians
that tho' the French could perswade them into a warr, they were
not able to defend or secure their settlements and places to them.
This is the method of our inland service, and on the seabord
we have the Castle at Boston, Forts at Salem, Marblehead and
Newcastle, besides Saco and Casco, ancient tradeing houses to
the eastward which I have fortifyed, and the Province gaily
and sloop, with forces cruising all the summer to prevent the
taking of our coasters, and merchantmen from Europe, both
which vessels have been built since my comeing at the Province
charge, and well equipt every year to a great expence, of all these
articles the account is in the Book herewith inclosed. The clause
requireing an account of the strength of the neighbour Gover-
ments is more difficult, but your Lordships will pardon my guess,
yet upon a just muster such as I have now layd before your
Lordships in these papers, I am of opinion Rhode Island has
2500 fighting men ; Connecticut, 7000 ; New York, 6000. And
in all other articles proportionable, with all of whom we have a
coasting trade, for grain, bread, flower, beaf and pork, which we
expend in our fishery, and carry to the West Indies. The trade
of the Province consists of masts, and sparrs, for H.M. service,
brought home in the mast fleet. Our returns for London by
way of Lisbon for fish about 50,000 pound per annum. Directly
home a great quantity of train oyle, tarr, and turpentine, which
are much increased and better'd since I came hither, and would
be perfectly a sufficient supply for Great Britain, if our men taken
into the service for the defence of the Provinces, and expeditions,
might be spared for that inrploy, which will come to pass in peace.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 259
1712.
Ships and vessels built for sale in great Britain, and the West
Indies to the numbers of 70 per annum. Ships belonging to
the Provinces trading of three sorts. Above 100 tun, 20 ; be-
tween 50 and 100 tun, 60 ; below that rate tradeing to the West
Indies, 1 20. Your Lordships' last article, referring to the number
of inhabitants and number of fighting men, is perfectly set
down, and accounted for in the inclosed papers, as justly as
possibly, and will be I hope to your Lordships' satisfaction.
Your Lordships' wisdom needs no intimation of mine to know how
these Provinces may be made happy and secureable to H.M.
I am humbly of opinion that the English settlements from Penna-
quid to Delaware River, which never cost England above 10,000
souls to settle them, which tract is now divided into six severall
Goverments contayning in them 300,000 souls, and are dayly
increaseing, and are a very industrious people as appears by a
subdued and well built country, will stand in need of nothing to
make them such as your Lordships would have them to bee, but
a good defence against the incursions of the Indians and French
by land from Queebeck, and then the peace and repose of these
Provinces would make the trade of all sorts, five times what it
is presently. Over all which if H.M. Goverment be justly mayn-
tain'd, and the people and trade kept to a strict and constant
dependance upon the Acts of Trade and Navigation, and put
upon the linnen manufacture for which the country is extreemly
proper, the mother will find her daughters increase her welth
and honour to a very great degree. The Acts of Parliament
referring to the preservation of white pines etc. was publish'd
and reprinted and sent to every part of these Provinces for
their information and obedience six months since, and the other
for the incouragement of trade was now publish'd as your Lord-
ships commanded. Signed, J. Dudley. Endorsed, Reed. July
llth, 1712, Read July 6, 1713. Q pp. Enclosed,
375. i. (a) List of Officers in the Civil Government, Massachu-
setts Bay.
(b) List of Courts of Justice in the Massachusetts
Bay. 1 p.
(c) List of fees exacted in the Massachusetts Bay.
5 pp.
(d) Account of the Treasury of the Massachusetts Bay,
May, 1710-11. Tax on polls and estate real and
personal 22689 4 7
Import duty 3116 12 8
Tunnage and shipping 516
Excise 666 15 6
Fines 38 17 2
Total 27,027 9 11
The expence during the warr communibus annis has been
little short of 30,000 per annum. The expence of the last
year 1711 by reason of the advances for the great
expedition will fall little short of 50,000. The poll and
land tax is usually laid for betwixt two and three and
260
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
twenty thousand pounds per annum, and that levied
with no little dificulty, H.M. subjects of this Province
being much impoverished and enfeebled by the heavy
and allmost insupportable charge of a long calamitous
war which has chiefly lyen upon this Province, etc. etc.
I p.
(e) Accompt of the Militia in the Massachusetts Bay,
April, 1712. Details of counties ami regiments given.
Totals : 12,517. Adding 5 for 1 for women and children,
total population 75,102. 5 pp.
(f) List of Forts in the Massachusetts Bay. 1 p.
(g) Soldiers in actual service for the defence of the
Province, total : 634. 1 p.
(h) List of stores of war wanted for the Massachusetts
Bay. 1 p.
(i) List of officers in the civil Government of New
Hampshire. Fees as in the Massachusets Bay. Revenue,
Nov. 1710-11, 1575 (excise, 45; impost 30; tax
upon polls and estate of land and stock 1500. Militia,
1107. Population (adding 5 for 1 for women and
children) 6,642. Fort at Newcastle. Births, 349 and
128 burials. Jan. 1st, 1710-11. 1 p. The whole signed
J. Dudley and endorsed, Reed. July 11, 1711 (sic),
Read July 6, 1713. [C.O. 5, 865. Nos. 92, 92 i. ; and
(without enclosures) 5, 913. pp. 412-422.]
[April 8.] 376. H.M. Warrant appointing Col. Richard Downes to
St. James's, the first vacancy in the Council of Barbados, (v. C.S.P. 1704.
Nos. 91, 126). Countersigned, Nottingham. Endorsed, Reed.
(from Mr. Tryon) 8th, Read 14th April, 1712. Copy. 1 p.
[C.O. 28, 13. No. 86 ; and 29, 12. pp. 411, 412.]
[April 8.]
April 9.
Barbados.
377. Order of Queen in Council, Dec. 18, 1707, restoring
Tobias Frere to the Council of Barbados. Endorsed, Reed. 8th,
Read 14th April, 1712. Reed, from Mr. Tryon. Duplicate of
C.S.P. 1707. No. 1235. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 87: and 29, 12.
pp. 412, 413.]
378. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Encloses duplicates of March (? Feb. 18), 1712 and
Dec. 20, 1711, and abstract of proceedings "which were had
against Mr. Carter, as your Lordships will perceive by perusing
the Minutes of Council herewith sent. The power of suspending
practitioners in the law hath been frequently practiced by my
predecessors, and never any complaint was made of it, nor any
fault found with it," etc. (v. Feb. 18). Besides appearing
against the Queen when he was Solicitor General, he did all he could
to infuse jealousies and discontentes amongst the people, in
order to disturb the Government and to provoke the people to
clamour against everything that was done : whereas the faultes for
which the other gentlemen were suspended, were only of a private
nature, etc. I am sensible that the Queen is full of clemency and
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 261
1712.
mercy, and therefore some small time after I had done my duty
in resenting Mr. Carter's ill-treatment of H.M., I gave him to
understand that I would take off his suspension, provided he
would make his submission, and acknowledge his fault, but he
hath not yet thought fit to do it, and I understand he hath
complained home of the proceeding, and hopes to be rewarded,
instead of punished for what he hath done etc. Refers to case
of the Oxford (v. Feb. 18). It is necessary upon this occasion
to informe your Lordshipes that quantitys of tallow and counter-
band goods are frequently imported here and no entries made
thereof in the Custome House : it is generally believed, and with
good reason, that the said goods are imported by shipes that
come from Ireland, however prejudicial this may be to the interest
of Great Britain, yet I hold it impossible to prevent it, if shipes
are suffered to break bulk before they produce there manifestos ,
certificates, and clearance bills in the manner as the law requires,
nor, so long as the chief officers of the Customes, and Admiralty
here, are merchantes. If your Lordshipes shall be of opinion
that I have acted too rigidly in the affair of the ship Oxford,
I hope you will not only impute it to the strictness of my In-
structions, and the Law, but that you will direct me how to
govern myself in the like cases for the future ; for it is not an
easy matter to pursue my Instructions, and at the same time
prevent the merchantes from clamouring, because in several
cases, the interest of the Queen, and that of the merchants do
interfere, which happens as often as they trade illegally or make
any innovations upon the Actes of Trade. The causes and
reasons of Mr. Skeene's suspension are mentioned in the Address
which the Council and General Assembly presented me upon that
occasion, etc. I humbly beg leave to refer you to the said
Address : but I humbly hope that your Lordshipes will be of
opinion that it's highly reasonable that I should have the nomin-
ation of my own Secretary, and that the person which I pitch
upon should have the ancient fees and perquisites that did always
belong to those that were Secretaries to my predecessors. Ac-
knowledges letters of Oct. 26 and Nov. 22. I have already given
directions to have the account prepared, which your Lordshipes
mention, etc. This step will alarm the people that have offices
and places, and make them confederate and clamour against
me : for both the merchantes, patentees, ministers, and other
officers, are jealous, that such an enquiry tendes, either to make
some regulations to their disadvantage, or to displace some of
them, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed. May 24,
1712, Read July 17, 1713. Holograph. 4 pp. Enclosed,
378. i. Abstract of proceedings in the Council of Barbados
against Mr. Carter, Solicitor General, Jan. 22, 1712,
suspending him for appearing against the Queen in the
case of the Oxford, etc. Same endorsement. 2 pp.
378. ii. Abstract of Naval Officer's List of ships entered and
cleared at Barbados June 25 Dec. 25, 1711. Number
of ships, England, 49 ; Plantations, 77. White sugar ;
England, 108 hhds., 251 tierces, barrels 34. Muscovado
262 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
sugar; England, 9820 hhds., 970 tierces, 788 barrels;
Plantations, 12 hhds., 103 tierces, 219 barrels. Rum ;
England, 1 hhd., 3 tierces ; Plantations, 1110 hhds.,
654 tierces, 434 barrels. Molosses ; England, 22 hhds.,
Plantations, 224 hhds., 44 tierces, 28 barrels. Lime
juice ; England, 18 hhds., 9 tierces, 15 barrels ; Plan-
tations, 2 tierces, 21 barrels. Cotton ; England, 541
bags ; Plantations, 92 bags. Ginger ; 3717 bags ;
Plantations, 13. Alloes ; England, 264 goards. Same
endorsement. 1 p.
378. iii. Case of the ship Oxford. Duplicate of No. 318 iv.
378. iv. 31 Depositions relating to the Oxford. Endorsed,
Reed. May 24, 1712. 58 pp.
378. v. Certificate that enclosed papers are true copies.
Signed, Rob. Lowther. f p.
378. vi.-viii. Copy of Minutes of Council and Assembly of
Barbados Jan. 22. Duplicates of Nos. 318 vi.-viii.
378. ix. Copy of proceedings of a Court of Chancery held in
Barbados, Aug. 8, 1711 April 5, 1712. 11 pp.
378. x. List of causes undetermined in the Court of Chancery,
Barbados. Endorsed, Reed. May 24, 1712, Read 17th
July, 1713. \\pp.
378. xi. List of French prizes (18) taken and brought into
Carlisle Bay, July, 1711 March, 1712. Same endorse-
ment. 1| pp.
378. xii. Copies of orders given by Governor Lowther to the
Captains of the men of war, June 28, 1711 Feb. 23,
1712. Duplicate of Aug. 29, 1712. No. 1.
378. xiii. Copy of Minutes of Council of Barbados, May 12,
1709, relating to the Secretary. Endorsed, Reed.
May 24, 1712, Read July 17, 1713. 2pp.
378. xiv. List of French prisoners of war at Barbados. Same
endorsement. 3 pp.
378. xv. Copy of Address of the General Assembly of Bar-
bados to Governor Lowther, Oct. 29, 1711, resenting a
letter addressed by some of the clergy to Mr. Cleland
asking him to obtain redress for the neglect and in-
sufficient endowment of the Church, etc. Same endorse-
ment. 1^ pp.
378. xvi. Copy of the oath taken by H.M. Solicitor General
in Barbados. Same endorsement. | p.
378. xvii. Copy of a manifest of the loading of the Oxford
delivered to the Governor of Barbados by Robert
Addison. Signed, Robt. Addison. Same endorsement.
Ip.
378. xviii. Copy of clearance bill of the Oxford from Port
Kinsale. Same endorsement. 1 p.
378. xix. Copy of Governor Lowther's order for seizing the
Oxford, Nov. 21, 1711. Same endorsement, p.
378. xx. Extract from the Custom house books at Barbados
relating to the Oxford. Signed, John Lane, Collr.
Same endorsement. 1 p.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 263
1712.
378. xxi., xxii. Copies of a bond and memorandum proposed
to have been entered into by the Commander and
Consignee of the Oxford. (Duplicate No. 318 v.)
Same endorsement. 6 pp.
378. xxiii. Copy of petition of Robert Knowles, master of the
Oxford, to Governor Lowther that a libel be exhibited
on her seizure, so that he may be enabled to proceed on
his voyage. Signed, Robt. Knowles. Received on
Dec. 27, and ordered that a libel be forthwith exhibited.
Same endorsement. 1 p.
378. xxiv. Copy of petition of Robert Addison, to be admitted
a party in vindication of the Oxford. Same endorsement.
l^pp.
378. xxv. Copy of libel exhibited by Wm. Bindloss, purser
of H.M.S. Experiment, against the Oxford. Same
endorsement. 4^ large pp.
378. xxvi. Petition of William Bindloss that Mr. Addison
(xxiv.) may not be admitted a party. Same endorsement.
3pp.
378. xxvii. (a) Petition of William Bindloss, praying that Mr.
Addison may be examined to interrogatories relating
to the Oxford, (b) The Judge of the Admiralty's decision
dismissing above petition Jan. 14, 17|-|. Same endorse-
ment. 2| pp.
378. xxviii. Reply of Robert Knowles and Robert Addison
to the libel of Wm. Bindloss (xxv.). Signed, Richard
Carter, James Cowse, Jan. 7, 1712. Same endorsement.
5 pp.
378. xxix. Reply of Robert Knowles to No. xxv. Same
endorsement. 2 pp.
378. xxx. Exceptions taken by William Bindloss to Knowles'
reply (No. xxix.). Same endorsement. 3| pp.
378. xxxi. Copy of the report of the Register of the Court of
Admiralty upon the libel, answer, and exceptions (Nos.
xxv., xxviii., xxix., xxx.) in the case of the Oxford.
Jan. 18, 1712. Signed, Stephen Alexander. Same
endorsement. 5 pp.
378. xxxii. Copy of further reply of Robert Knowles and
Robert Addison (Jan. 21, 1711). Signed and endorsed
as No. xxviii.
378. xxxiii. Copy of exceptions taken by William Bindloss
to preceding. Jan. 26, 17-j-. Endorsed, Reed. May 24,
1712, Read July 17, 1713. 2| pp.
378. xxxiv. Copy of answer of Robert Knowles and Robert
Addison to preceding. Signed, James Cowse. Same
endorsement. 6f pp.
378. xxxv. Interrogatories to be put to witnesses in the
case of the Oxford. Same endorsement. 4 pp.
378. xxxvi. Petition of Robert Knowles and Robert Addison
to Dudley Wood bridge, Judge of the Admiralty, praying
him to dismiss Mr. Bindloss' libel, on the ground that
lie was taking no steps to examine witnesses, etc. Feb.
264 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
8, 17jJ. Dismissed, on the grounds that the examin-
ation has begun. Feb. 9, 17 j|. Same endorsement.
Copy. 2J pp.
378. xxxvii. (a) Copy of petition of Robert Knowles and
Robert Addison to Dudley Woodbridge, Judge of the
Admiralty, that they be allowed to sail with the Oxford
upon giving security to answer the award of the Court.
Signed, James Cowse. Feb. 16, 17 }-|.
(b) Copy of Judge of the Admiralty's order for an
appraisement of the Oxford, Feb. 20, 17}-|, prior to
deciding above petition. Same endorsement. 2| pp.
378. xxxviii. Copy of petition of William Bindloss that the
Oxford may not be admitted to sail before a hearing.
Same endorsement. 3 pp.
378. xxxix. Copy of protest entered by William Bindloss
against the order of appraisement, xxvii. (b). Same
endorsement. 1 p.
378. xl. Copy of a petition of Robert Knowles and Robert
Addison praying a short day for the hearing of the libel
exhibited against the Oxford (xxv.). Signed, James
Cowse, William Walker. Order that the case be heard
on March 8. Same endorsement. 2| pp.
378. xli. Petition of William Bindloss that time be allowed
him to examine witnesses, Feb. 29, 1712. Same endorse-
ment. 5| pp.
378. xlii. Petition of William Bindloss that further time
be allowed him to examine witnesses, etc. Hearing of
case (v. No. xl.) deferred till March 10. Same endorse-
ment. 2 pp. [C.O. 28. 13. Nos. 104, 104 i.-xlii. ;
and (without enclosures) 29, 13. pp. 32-46 ; and (dupli-
cates of Nos. xi., xii.) 28, 43. Nos. 55, 77.]
April 10. 379. Commission and Instructions appointing Francis
Brooke Surveyor General of North Carolina. [C.O. 5, 290.
p. 56.]
April 12. 380. Col. Lilly to [? the Earl of Dartmouth]. Refers to letter
Barbados, of Feb. 18. I presume my instructions from the Board of Ord-
nance, 1704, to keep my station at Barbados, remain in force, etc.
Signed, Chrn. Lilly. 1 p. Enclosed,
380. i. Extract from Col. Lilly's Journal of his visit to New-
foundland, Nov. 12, 1711. Recommends the building
of a fort on N.W. part of Ferryland Head, etc. Signed,
Chrn. Lilly. 2 pp.
380. ii. Duplicate of No. 317. [C.O. 28, 43. Nos. 75, 75 i.,
76.]
[April 14.] 381 . H.M. Warrant for admitting Charles Long to the Council
of Jamaica upon the first vacancy, Feb. 18, 170|. (v. C.S.O.
1704, Nos. 79, 107). Countersigned, Nottingham. Endorsed,
Reed, from Mr. Tryon 8th, Read 14th April, 1712. Copy. 1 p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 65.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 265
1712.
April 15. 382. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Whitehall. Plantations. Encloses following for their report. Signed, Dart-
mouth. Endorsed, Reed. Read April 16, 1712. 1 p. Enclosed,
382. i. Extract of letter from Lt. Governor Spotswood to
Lord Dartmouth, Feb. 8, 1711. I am taking all necess-
ary precautions for securing the country against the
Indians, and by the voluntary offers of several gentlemen
of the Councill to advance mony on the credit of the
revenue for making good the treaty with the Tuscoruro
Indians, I hope to keep that nation in our interest, and
by that means put a speedy end to the present danger,
unless the French (who 'tis said now trade with Indians
not very remote) should find means to unite their
Indians with those concern'd in the late massacre and
furnish them with arms and ammunition to attack us.
This is the more to be feared, because I have advice from
persons who have lived amongst the Indians that the
Senequa's (a numerous people) have of late been very
industrious to unite all the scattered body's of Indians
on the frontiers of this and the neighbouring Govern-
ments, and seem more particularly provoked against
us on account of one of their kings being killed some
time ago by an inhabitant of this Colony as he was
hunting. If they should for this prosecute a revenge,
such a combination of all our neighbouring Indians
might put our frontiers in a very unhappy condition,
considering how ill we are provided to encounter an
enemy, that is no otherwise to be reduced but by a
continual pursuit through the woods and desarts, a
fatigue which our people will never be able to endure
without the conveniency of tents to secure them from
the weather. I therefore humbly offer to your Lordps'.
consideration to move H.M. for a supply out of the
Tower of about 300 soldiers' tents, some small arms and
powder, with two brass three pounders mounted on
feild carriages for an expedition ; such a supply would
be of the greatest service, if we should be reduced to
a necessity of pursuing the Indians, or of attacking
them in their forts and without which it will be ex-
treamly difficult to free ourselves effectually from the
invasions of that enemy. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos.
79, 79 i. ; and 5, 1363. pp. 397-399.]
April 16. 383. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
Whitehall, mouth. Reply to preceding. We are humbly of opinion, for the
reasons mentioned Dec. 6th, that considering the present cir-
cumstances of Virginia, their inability of supplying themselves,
and the apprehensions Col. Spotswood is under of an Indian
war, which if it should happen, might be of very ill consequence
to that Colony and the tobacco- trade, it is necessary for H.M.
service that Col. Spotswood be supply'd with powder and small
arms, as also with 300 tents, as he now desires, without which we
266
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
do not think it practicable for him either to repell or pursue the
Indians in case of any attempt. [C.O. 5, 1363. p. 400 ; and
5, 1335. No. 170 ; and 5, 1341. No. 19.]
April 17. 384. Order of Queen in Council. Referring to the Council
St. James's, of Trade and Plantations the following for their report. Signed,
Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. 6th, Read 9th May, 1712. 1 p.
Enclosed,
384. i. Petition of Elizabeth, widow of Jordain Salenave,
to the Queen. Prays to be allowed possession of the
plantation in St. Kitts as granted to her Feb. 2, 1692 (3).
(v. C.S.P. 1693. No. 49, and A.P.C. II. No. 489.]
Copy. 2 pp.
384. ii. Copy of Order of King in Council Feb. 2, 1692.
(C.S.P. 1693. No. 49.) [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 115, 115
i., ii. ; and 153, 11. pp. 465468.]
[April 18.] 385. Col. Nicholson to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
It is proposed that if Canada must remain in the possession of
the French King, that the bounds of it be from the mouth of the
River St. Laurence south-west as far as Mont Real, and from
thence to go on in a westerly line to the sea, and that all that part
of the Continent wch. lies on the north of the river be reckon'd
into the bounds of Canada, Hudson's Bay with the English
settlements therein included, and in lieu of this cession on the
part of Great Britain, the French to be obliged never to come
beyond 20 miles on the south of the said River of Canada, and
that distance to be setled as their southern bounds, provided at
the same time that they are at the mouth of the said River to
keep 20 miles distant from the River and Bay of Gaspes. And
for a satisfaction to the Hudson's Bay Company it is propos'd
that the Queen shall give them all the Islands and terra firma
lying between Cape Roziers of the River of St. Laurence and Cape
Bretton Island, which will be an abundant recompence to ye
company for what they part with in Hudson's Bay, not only
because they will here find the same furr trade they had there,
and a fishery with naval stores into the bargain, but because their
settlements in Hudson's Bay are so far North that ships can't
come to 'em above 3 or 4 months in ye year, and the Canadians
having got their Indians from 'em will beat 'em out of that trade
entirely. This will likewise be a service to ye Crown, as it is a
strengthening to ye Colonies on the Continent, and will be so to
what shall be settled in the Bay of Fundee, whereas their present
settlements are of no use in that respect at all. Signed, Fr.
Nicholson. Endorsed, Reed. 18th, Read 22nd April, 1712. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 865. No. 79 ; and 5, 913. pp. 373, 374.]
April 20. 386. Mr. Hare to Mr. Popple. Mr. Secretary St. John
Whitehall, having some matters to discourse ye Lords Commrs. of Trade
upon which will compose ye dispatches of ye next post, designs
to be with their Lordships on Tuesday, etc. Mr. Secretary
thinks it may be proper that Mr. Nicholson, and such of the
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
267
1712.
April 22.
Whitehall.
April 22.
April 23.
Whitehall.
merchants trading to New England, and concerned in the fishery
there as ye Lds. of Trade shall think convenient, should attend
att ye same time. Signed, J. Hare. Endorsed, Reed. 20th,
Read 21st April, 1712. 1 pp. [C.O. 5, 865. No. 78 ; and 5,
913. p. 372.]
387. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Upon my laying before H.M. Mr. Spotswood's
letter of Feb. 18 etc. (v. April 15 and 16), H.M. has commanded me
to acquaint you that she has been informed great abuses have
been committed in the disposal of stores sent to the Plantations
for the publick service, and that it has been a common practice
to sell arms and other implements of war to those very Indians
against whom they were intended to be employed. H.M. there-
fore thinks fit that you consider of the most proper methods to
prevent these frauds which are doubly injurious to Her subjects,
particularly you are to give your opinion whether it is not advise-
able that the Governor, when any occasion requires he should
make a distribution of arms, ought not to be directed to take
security for their being redelivered into the magazins when the
service is performed. Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed.
23rd, Read 28th April, 1712. If pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 80 ;
and 5, 1363. p. 401.]
388. James Campbell to Mr. Popple. Encloses following.
Signed, Ja. Campbell. Endorsed, Reed. April 23, 1712. Ad-
dressed. | p. Enclosed,
388. i. Archibald Cumings to James Campbell. London,
April 21, 1712. Reply to questions of April 2 concern-
ing Newfoundland. Mainly agreeing with April 5. Con-
cludes : That trade has lyen under several! dyceadvan-
tages, particularly by severall ships from Spain with
Spanish colours navigated with Spaniards and all
manner of Spanish manufactures by vertue of H.M.
passports under colour of British interest though not
one shilling interested in them, besides linnens, iron,
alamodes, canvis, fruites and oyls, contrary to law
and the prejudice of our manufactures in generall,
and tends to the carrying on an illegal trade to the
plantations, to the prejudice of the trade and navigation
of Great Britain, etc. Signed, Archd. Cumings. If pp.
[C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 13, 13 i.]
389. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary St.
John. Refer to Representation of Feb. 16, and Order in Council
of March 1, 17{-^ (q.v.) relating to the Revenue of New York.
We have been lately informed by Col. Hunter and Col. Quary.
as also by a Representation from the Council of that Province,
that notwithstanding the repeated and pressing instances of the
Governor and Council, the Assembly continue still obstinate,
and are so far from expressing their duty to H.M. in providing a
suitable revenue for the support of that Government, that they
268 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
have made several votes and resolutions derogatory to H.M.
Royal prerogative, one or more of which we take leave to instance
in : They pretend they do not sit as an Assembly and dispose
of mony by virtue of any Commission, Letters Patents or other
grant from the Crown, but from the free choice and election of the
people in consequence whereof they will not admit of any amend-
ments by the Council to any mony bills. The Governor is
impower'd by his commission to establish such and so many
Courts of Judicature, as he with the advice of the Council shal
see necessary. He having by the advice aforesaid erected a
Court of Equity, the Assembly whereupon resolv'd that the
erecting a Court of Equity without consent in General Assembly,
is contrary to law, without president, and of dangerous conse-
quence to the liberty and property of the subjects. Upon which,
we are humbly of opinion that if the Assembly of New York is
suffer'd to proceed after this manner, it may prove of very
dangerous consequence to that Province, and of very ill example
to H.M. other Governments in America, who are already but too
much inclin'd to assume pretended rights tending to an indepen-
dency on the Crown. And therefore we humbly offer that H.M.
be pleas'd to signify to the Governor of New York Her displeasure
and disapprobation of such undutiful proceedings of the Assembly;
and that H.M. pleasure be likewise signify'd upon the above-
mentioned draught of a bill for settling a Revenue at New York
(a copy whereof is here inclosed) for that we have reason to believe,
from their proceedings, that without some provision be made by
. . parliament here, no revenue will be settled there ; as we more
fully laid before H.M. the 13th of November last. [(7.0. 5, 1122.
pp. 489492.]
April 25. 390. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I have considered the Act past at Barbados, Aug. 8,
1706, for the better enabling the executors of Christopher Estwick
to pay the debts of the sd. Christopher, in which Act it is recited that
Richard Estwick, gent, having two sons, Richard and Christopher,
and two daughters Elisabeth and Anne, devised one half of his
real estate to Richard and the heirs of his body, with cross re-
mainders in tail among them, charged with the payment of his
legacies. Remainder to his two daughters in tail, remainder in
fee to his widow. That Richard the eldest son dying without
issue, the whole estate came to Christopher, and that he having
made his will, and thereby made some provision for his onely
son, and two daughters, and made several executors, and not
having fully discharged his father's legacies, dyed incumbred
with debts to the amount of 6000. That the said Christopher
was also seized of several negros of his own purchase ; that the
creditors had commenced or threatened suits agt. his executors
for recovery of their debts, whereby his personal estate, and his
negros were in danger of being wholly extended and sold to satisfie
them, and if the negros are taken off from the Plantation, whereof
he was seised in tail, the Plantation would become of little value
to the son, which could not be prevented by any way but by
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 269
1712.
applying the whole profits of the estate to discharge the incum-
brances, and by allowing the creditors interest in the mean while
at 10 p.c., and that the executors did conceive that this way the
estate would in all probability be preserved entire, and be cleared
by the time the son should come of age. And therefore it is
enacted, that the executors be impowered to apply the profits
of the whole estate towards payment of debts and incumbrances,
and to allow the creditors 10 p.c. interest till paid off. Which
Act, I am of opinion, is unreasonable, in regard thereby the en-
tailed estate, which descended to the infant, and was not charge-
able with the debts of his father, is charged with the same, and
also with 10 p.c. interest, and no provision whatsoever is reserved
for the son, during the time the debts are clearing. I beg leave
to take notice on this occasion that the Governors of the Plan-
tations do not observe their instructions in transmitting the
Laws passed in the Plantations, within the time prescribed for
them to transmit the same. It appearing in this particular case,
that this Act was passed Aug. 8, 1706, and not reced. by your
Lordships till 12th Feb. 1711, and therefore I submit it to your
Lordps.' consideration, whether the Governors of Plantations
are not to be put in mind of taking care that laws passed in H.M.
Plantations be transmitted for H.M. approbation in due time.
Signed, Edw. Northey. Endorsed, April 29, Read May 22, 1712.
2 pp. [C.O. 28, 13. "No. 90 ; and 29, 12. pp. 425428.]
April 28. 391 . Mr. Musgrave to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Council Office. I am commanded by ye Lords of H.M. most honble. Privy Council
to desire yr. Lordships will forthwith transmit all such papers
etc. as shall be in your possession yt. relates to ye disorders of
Antegoa, etc. Signed, Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, April 29,
1712. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 110 ; and 153, 11. p. 456.]
April 30. 392. Robert Cunynghame to the Council of Trade and
(May 3 and Plantations. I beg to lay my case before your Lordships, being
30th). now a prisoner in Charles Fort under the oppression of Walter
Charles Fort Douglas, Capt. General of the Leeward Islands. The 29th Nov.
Christophers ^ as ^ was sworn a Representative in the Assembly of this Island,
the same day was brought to them from the General and Council
by John Willett a bill for raising a levey to defray the publick
cliarges of this Island with the Queen's scale for this Government
affix'd to it, by which the General did expect should be paid him
100.000 pounds of sugar in cash. Mr. Willett said the scale was
affixed the General being in hast to be gone ; I then had my
protest against it entered into the Minutes of the Assembly, the
Island being in such unhappy circumstances that we canot make
such presents which did beleive would be entailed upon our
posterity and for such other reasons as the great hast to have the
bill past would not allow time to reduce into writing. Jan. 7th
being the next time the Assembly met and Speaker present,
I entered into the Minutes my other reasons for protesting against
the said Bill (enclosed}. Some time after I received a message
by a friend from Mr. Thornton the General's great favorite
270 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
advising me to consider my numerous family, but not to be so
frightened from my duty I spoke more openly against the Gen-
eral's having the 100,000 Ib. sugar, the Bill not having the consent
of the majority of the Assembly as the Queen directs in her com-
mission. In all times before, whenever a levey bill was in
agitation, it had seven yea's in the Assembly, then was signed by
the Speaker and sent to the Council, which if approv'd of by
them, Council and Assembly offer'd it to the General, who allowing
of signed it and commanded the seal to be affixed, but, My Lords,
General Douglas is satisfied with five yea's and the Speaker,
provided he have the 100,000 Ib. sugar notwithstanding our
being at present objects of the Queen and Parliament's charity
in making good in some measure the losses sustained by the
French, our much greater losses by the hurrycane (many can
say) which happened the night between the last of August and
first of Sept. 1707, our perticular very great debts, which if
compelled to pay would ruine most of the inhabitants, and the
publick debts which by accots. adjusted amount to about 6500.
Being informed on Sunday the 13th that the General who arrived
here the friday before had some persons examined for words
spoke by me, as I had said nothing but the truth, I writ him on
the 14th what I had said. I must acknowledge I could have writ
more civily, but under a cloak of greatest friendship he put
hardships upon me and my children, etc. The same day I was
served with a falce, scandalous and malicious warrant (v. No. ii.).
In answer to the first charge, tho' I have served the Crown many
years in the regular troops as Commandant of the Windward
side of the Island, the Queen in her Council here, as Speaker to
a General Assembly, and for several years to the perticular
Assembly of this Island, yet no gentleman has bin so regular in
riding the rounds as myself, arid have ever press'd a more regular
discipline, and in the parish of St. John Capisterre there has bin
but seven men to do duty in the Foot, and but now six of which
four are my servants, and when we had the seventh man he was
hired by us in common to attend our negroes in building a Church,
there are four members of Council livers in the same parish, and
all together have not one man to do duty in the foot : to the
second charge, I have spoke openly against the General's having
the 100,000 Ib. sugar as contrary to the Queen's intentions and
not having the consent of the people's Representatives as H.M.
directs in her Commission. I have also told the General in
perticular and as his friend of the wrong I thought he did the
Queen and himself in giving as I thought the Militia out of H.M.
pow r er, by consenting that all persons shal serve in such stations
as shal be directed by the seven chief officers of the Island which
your Lordships will judge of, if the Act be laid before you. I was
had the 15th before the General in Council. He ask'd me if he
was the Queen's Chief Magistrate here, I answered, he was. He
having my letter in his hand ask'd me how I dared to writ it to
him. I answer'd I had writ it and would stand by it. He asked
me where I would be tryed, in England or here. I answer'd
where he pleas'd, He charg'd me with sedition. I answer'd I
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 271
1712.
am as faithfull and loyal a subject as any the Queen has. He
bid me remember Col. Park at Antigua. I answer'd I hoped St.
Kitts would never be guilty of the like, that I wisht him alive
and at the head of that board. He askt if I had anything else
to charge him with, if I had to declare it, my answer was I would
not there, but in proper time and place I should. He asked me
what authority I have to write to your Lordships, I answered
I am one of the people's representatives, have a smal estate and
numerous family. He wisht himself upon a level with me.
I wisht he was. Mr. Liddell interposed desired me not to aggra-
vate matters, but that they might be composed. I answered I
did not aggravate, but should be pleas'd if H.E. was gratified,
a paper was brought him ready sealed, which being read to me
was a mittimus to Charles Fort for high crimes and misdemeanors.
I offer'd bayle, which he refused. I applyed to the Queen's
Council, offering bayle. Mr. Liddell answered I did see the
General would not allow of it. I desired a copie of the mittimus,
the General said I should have it, but I have it not, was hurried
away in the great heat of the day as the greatest of malefactors
and not allowed to stay in towne the coming of my horse. On
Wedn. the 16th Mr. James Rawleigh came to Lt. Holland the
officer commanding the Fort and told him 'twas the General's
order he should attend him and carry the mittimus. I desired
of Lt. Holland a copie of it, he refused untill he should go to the
General. On the 17th I desired of Lt. Holland a copie of the
mittimus, his answer was he had left it with the General. On
Good friday the 18th my little son of twelve years old bringing
me a letter from his mother. Lt. Holland took me aside, advised
me to be cautious, for that he had orders from the General that
no letters should come to nor go from me but what he should see.
Your Lordships do see the oppression I lye under, being haled
from my wife and eleven children on a false pretext, committed
a prisoner as for high crimes and misdemeanours, do know none
of them, am denied a copie of my mittimus, had none of the
evidence confronted, know not what is sworne against me, and
4000 bayle refused for my appearing to a tryal, and this very
letter is privately writ to your Lordships, who are appointed by
H.M. to hear the complaints of her oppressed subjects in the
Plantations. I perswade my self your Lordships will take such
measures herein as shal be for the Queen's honor and'ease of her
oppressed subject, who values himself on his having the honor
to be descended from an ancient, noble and loyal family, and the
son of a gentleman Richd. Cunynghame, late of Glengarnock,
who did as great services for King Charles I and II in their
misfortunes as any of his rank. I do hope I may have reason
likewise to value myself on the justice I shal have against General
Douglas by your Lordships' means. Signed, Ro. Cunynghame.
Endorsed, Reed. Read Aug. 12, 1712. 3pp. Enclosed,
392. i. Copy of Robert Cunynghame's reasons for protesting
against the Act of St. Christophers for raising a levey to
defray the public charges, etc. Jan. 7, 17 j|. 2 pp.
,392. ii. Copy of General Douglas' warrant for the arrest of
272
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
May 1.
Whitehall.
May 2.
Whitehall.
Robert Cunynghame, on the charge " made to appear
to me this day in Council by the information of divers
persons upon oath, that he hath industriously and of
his evil disposition endeavoured to stir up the militia
to mutiny and disobedience of their officers," etc. " and
to move the inhabitants to disobey the Acts of the
Council and Assembly," etc. Signed, Walter Douglas,
April 14, 1712. \ p. [C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 125, 125 i.,
and (without enclosures) 153, 11. pp. 500 507.]
.
393. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I send you herewith by the Queen's command a
copy of a petition delivered by Mr. Tryon in behalf of Mr. Skeene
H.M. Secretary at Barbadoes, setting forth among other things
that he is suspended without having any copy of the charge
against him. Upon which H.M. is pleased to order that you
consider of the petitioner's case, and report your opinion what
may properly be done therein ; particularly by what methods
the profits of his office may be secured to him, in case he should be
restored ; and whether you conceive it may be for H.M. service
that Her Patent Officers be not hereafter liable to suspension
till the complaints exhibited against them are laid before H.M.,
and her pleasure be known. Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed,
Reed. Read May 27, 1712. 1| pp. Enclosed,
393. i. Petition of Alexander Skeene to the Queen. Com-
plains of encroachments upon his office by Governor
Lowther etc. Set out, A.P.C. II. No. 11G3. q.v. Signed,
on behalf of petitioner, Rowland Tryon. 4f pp. [C.O.
28, 13. Nos. 91, 91 i. ; and 29, 12. pp. 429433.]
394. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Lowther.
Acknowledge letters of Dec. 20 and Feb. 18. We acquainted
you, Nov. 22nd, whereof a duplicate has been already sent,
what we had done, in relation to an Admiralty Commission for
you, but we do not find that your Agent Mr. Tilden has yet taken
it out, tho' we acquainted him with the necessity of it. We also
acquainted you, that we approved of your reasons against a
cartel for exchange of prisoners with ye French etc. We have
writ to Major Douglas, in relation to the Act for ascertaining the
rates of foreign coines, and hope he will take care to see the same
punctually observ'd. But as in your letter you only mention
H.M. Proclamation of June 18, 1704, we suppose you may have
overlookt or not have received the Act of the 6th of H.M. reign
abovementioned, and therefore we send you a duplicate thereof
here inclosed. We have the other parts of your letters and the
papers therein referred to, under consideration, and shall be able
by the next opportunity to give you full answers thereunto, in
the meantime we are to assure you, that if any complaints be
made against you, we shall take care to do you justice. We
perceive by a letter from Mr. Lilly the Engineer, that he has
transmitted to the Board of Ordnance his report relating to
Newfoundland. We wish that either you or he had sent us a
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 273
1712.
copy of it, that we might have been informed thereof in time.
We have lately received a private Act past in Barbados Aug. 8,
1706, for enabling the executors of Christopher Estwick etc., which
for severall reasons here inclosed, is very unfit to be confirmed
by H.M., and upon this occasion we must notice that the not
complying with H.M. Instructions in sending to us all Acts,
private as well as publick, by the first opportunity after their
having been past, is not only a breach of H.M. commands but
may prove of very ill consequence ; for in this particular case, it
appears that the Act was past in Aug. 1706, and not received by
us till Feb. last, so that in all probability it has been put in
execution before H.M. pleasure could be known upon it, and now
when it comes to be repealed, may occasion much trouble and
confusion to the executors of the said Estwick. We desire you
therefore on all occasions and in all cases to be mindeful of that
Instruction and to transmit to us all Acts by the first opportunity
after their being passed. [C.O. 29, 12. pp. 414-416.]
May 2. 395. Order of Queen in Council. Referring following petition
Kensington, to the Council of Trade and Plantations, so far as it concerns any
of the Governor's proceedings. Signed, Christo. Musgrave.
Endorsed, Reed. 8th, Read 9th May, 1712. 1| pp. Enclosed,
395. i. Petition of Philip Freeke and John Day of Bristol,
part owners of the Oxford to the Queen. Fitted out as a
privateer and laden with provisions consigned to Robt.
Addison of Barbados, also part owner, the ship was duly
cleared at the Custom House at Kingsail in Ireland. Mr.
Addison duly entered there and produced his clearance
bill. But under pretence that the master had not
deliver'd to the Governor a certificate of his loading
from the Custom-house in Ireland, which tho' by law
he is not obliged to show unto the Governor, Addison
the day of his arrival at Barbados then offer'd to bring
to him, but it was not insisted on at that time, and also
under pretence of not producing a certificate of two or
more merchants having made oath that the said loading
was of the product and manufacture of Ireland (a thing
only requir'd in case of Irish linnens, of which there was
none on board, as Mr. John Lane, Depty. Collector of
Customs declared) the Governor by warrant Nov. 21,1711
did arbitrarily and illegally cause the ship and cargo to
be seized. Mr. Addison was obliged to give good security
to answer their value, if forfeited, before he could be
permitted to dispose of his said loading, to the great loss
and hindrance of petitioners. Tho' by law there ought
to have been a libel or information forthwith exhibited
by the person that made the seizure in order to bring
the matter to a speedy determination, yet nothing was
done therein until Dec. 29th, when the said ship had
taken in her loading of prize sugars etc., in order to come
for England (being prevented cruizing to annoy the
enemy as was directed by petitioners by the impressing
Wt. 26089. C.P. 18.
274 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
several of the men on board the said ship by Capt.
Constable, Commodore there, who is a creature of the
Governor's, under pretence that they belong'd to men
of war) on which Dec. 29th a libel was exhibited in the
Court of Admiralty there in the name of Richard
Bindlos, purser of the Experiment, one of H.M. ships of
war then at the said Island, a relation of the Governors,
who is no ways authoriz'd thereunto, and has not given
any security to answer damages to petitioners, the
officers of your Majesty's Customs there, and all others
applied to for that purpose refusing to suffer their
names to be used therein. Altho' further sufficient
security was offered, that she might proceed on her
voyage, the Governor detains her, and hath ill treated
and misused not only the officers of your Majesty's
Customs there, who advis'd against the seizure, but also
petitioners' councel and all others who have appeared
or acted for the interest of petitioners, appointing one
Slingsby a creature of his own to act as your Majesty's
Attorney Generall there without and against the consent
of the person appointed to that office by your Majesty.
The ship is still under seizure and no determination
notwithstanding all the endeavours of petitioners' agents
now near 5 months, at the cost of 300 per mensem to
petitioners. Pray for relief and compensation. Signe-1,
Christo. Musgrave. Endorsed, Reed. 8th, Read 9th May,
1712. 61 pp. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos. 88, 88 i. ; and 29,
12. pp. 417424.]
May 2. 396. Order of Queen in Council. Approving Representation
Kensington, as to a general pardon to those concerned in the rebellion at
Antegua. Directions to be sent to the Governor of the Lee-
ward Islands accordingly. Signed, Edward Southwell. 2^ pp.
[C.O. 5, 11. No. 76.]
May 2. 397. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. Encloses follow-
Whitehall. ing for his opinion.
397. i. Draught of a clause proposed to be inserted in some
Act of Parliament relating to the sufferers of Nevis and
St. Kitts. The residence of any planter his or her
agent upon his or her plantation and manuring, planting
and managing the same and the return of inhabitants
or their representatives to their former houses or
occupations shall be deemed to be a good resettlement,
etc. Endorsed, Reed, (from Mr. Campbell.) Read
May 2, 1712. 2 pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No. Ill (enclosure
only ; and (without enclosure) 153, 11. p. 460.]
[May 2.] 398. Memorial [? by Mr. Stephen Duport]. Concerning the
Islands St. Martyn and St. Bartholome. There is not on either
of them any quantity of land fitt for sugar canes, the greatest
part being barren land, etc. The French had in peaceable tymes
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 275
1712.
about 100 famelys on them, whose chief occupation was to reare
stock for provisioning St. Kitts and Martinico. Some cultivated
cotton and indigo. These two Islands cannot be reputed con-
siderable in themselves, butt meight be of some consequence
should they remaine in the hands of the French, as privateers
can lie there. St. Kitts belonging wholly to Great Brittain
may be much better and sooner settled if provisioned from those
islands. In tyme of peace the French cannot be prevented from
illegal trade with the English, if these islands remain in the hands
of the French, etc. Endorsed, Reed. Read May 2, 1712. If pp.
[C.O. 152, 9. No. 112.]
[May 2.] 399. Gilbert Pepper and Evelyn his wife, sister of the late
Daniel Parke. to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Protest
against the appointment of Edward Warner (v. Feb. 19, March 15)
to the Council of Antigua. He carried himself notoriously
factious in the late troubles and with great insolence to the
Governor ; particularly being the person that carried a challenge
from one Barry Tankerd, a ringleader of the faction, to Governor
Parke, etc. Signed, Evelyn Pepper, Gi. Pepper. Endorsed,
Reed. Read May 2, 1712. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 113.]
May 2. 400. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Douglas.
Whitehall. Since ours of Oct. 26, (a duplicate whereof is here inclosed) we
have received one from you dated Nov. 28, and shall be glad to
find, as you intimate, that you have broke the knot of those per-
sons, who were concerned in the late rebellion at Antegoa, which
we hope will tend to the peace and welfare of that Isld., and we
shall expect an account of your further proceedings, towards
bringing that good work to a happy conclusion. At the same time
that you tell us that you have suspended Mr. Milliken from being
Fort Major at Nevis, you take no notice of your having also
suspended him from the Councill, which you ought to have
done, and given us your reasons for the same, as you are directed
by H.M. Instructions to you in that behalf ; wherefore we shall
expect that you do send us your reasons for such suspension by
the next conveyance, and that you give a copy thereof to him
for his answer, that we may consider the same, and lay yt. matter
before H.M. for Her pleasure therein. We shall likewise expect
the papers of publick proceedings you promise us, together with
the several Acts you mention to have past by the first conve3^ance.
What you write in relation to the want of stores, has been laid
before H.M. and so soon as we know H.M. pleasure therein, we
shall communicate the same to you. You say that you have
sworn Mr. Lyddell and Mr. Milward into the Councill, but you
do not tell us of what Island, so yt. we are at a loss to understand
that part of your letter, for we do not find that any of the Councills
are under seven in number, and you are limmitted by H.M.
Instructions, not to put any persons into the Councill, unless the
number be under seven, which you ought to have observ'd.
Besides we find that the said Mr. Lyddle and Mr. Milward are
named in H.M. Instructions to you for Montserat. There is
276
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
May 5.
London.
May 5.
Virginia.
May 5.
Annopolis
Royall.
one other article of your Instructions, in the observance whereof
you are to be very punctual, and that is in the sending to us all
Laws past by the General Assemblys, whether publick or private,
by the first opportunity, after their being so pass'd. We are
informed that the Act for ascertaining the rates of foreign coines
in H.M. Plantations in America, which was delivered you with
other Acts before your departure from hence, and of which a
duplicate is here inclosed, is not observed in the Leeward Islands
under your Government, which is a great prejudice to H.M. other
subjects, who do observe the same ; you are therefore to give the
necessary directions, that the said Act be punctually complyed
with, according to the true intent and meaning thereof. [C.O.
153, 11. pp. 457459.]
401 . Information of Mahuman Hinsdell. Informant, an
inhabitant of Deerfield (Mass.) was taken prisoner in 1709 by the
Indians, and detained at Mont Royal and Quebeck for two years.
While there, he discovered that a trade was constantly carry'd
on between several merchants and others of Albany (N.Y.),
and. the French Indians of Canada, and that the said Indians
were from time to time supply'd with all necessarys from Albany.
And that when the news came to Canada of Col. Nicholson's
being on his march to Mont Royal, several of the Indians told
informant that they were now undone, for they fear'd they shou'd
not be able to trade any longer with Albany, and that Canada
was not able to furnish 'em with what they wanted. One Andrew
Knock a trader of Albany assured him that in the summer of
1708 there were fourscore Eastern Indians (who are in open
hostility against H.M.) actually trading at Albany. Informant
declares that it was customary for the Indians, in their return
from a trading journey to Albany, to fall upon some of the fron-
tiers of the Massachusets, and do great spoil and mischief. The
French and Indians of Canada have often said in his hearing that
they had peace with Albany, and informant affirms in fact, that
when any of the people of Albany happned to fall into their hands
they have been presently set at liberty. Signed, Mahuman
Hinsdell. Corroborated by Joseph Clessen, two years prisoner
in Canada. Endorsed, Reed. Read May 7, 1712. 1 p. [C.O.
5, 865. No. 80 ; and 5, 913. pp. 374376.]
402. William Cocke to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Returns
thanks for H.M. patent for Secretary of Virginia, etc. Signed,
Wm. Cocke. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 17.]
403. Capt. Vane to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Refers to plans
sent by the wast fleet. I hope that I shall speedily receve H.M.
orders, in reference to this place ; that I may profitt of the good
weather for working. We have passed this winter very peaceably,
by the care and management of Lt. Gouvernr. Caulfeild who has
commanded ; and intierly gained the affections of the people,
by his affable and just gouverment : which the[y] people here
have been strangers too, att least since taken, for Gouvr. Vetch
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
277
1712.
May 5.
May 5.
Whitehall.
May 7.
Whitehall.
May 8.
Virginia.
May 8.
Virginia.
before the rebellion, had raised excessive contributions, and
committed abondance of extortions, using the people more like
slaves then anything else ; as I presume you have been informed ;
the inhabitants having sent home severall complaints (by Mr.
Capoon Left, of the traine) to H.M. etc. Gouvr. Vetch has
effects still in Canada, that have remained there, ever since he was
in trouble about the smugling trade : as I can prove, from a letter
in my hands, from a man, that has some of them, and desires
directions how he may send them to him. He's a very good
Gouvr. for his own profit, but not for the publick good, rior will
the contrey ever flurish whilst he commands, the people dread
him to that degree that now he talkes of comming back (having
been att boston all the winter) there's a perfect cloud in every
face, and I 'me informed severall of the inhabitants, talke of
abandoning ther habitations ; if he be not changed before next
winter. I have reason to beleive this is made a deer Garnison
to H.M. ; and it cannot otherwise chouse, when vessells that are
hired, to bring provitions to the Garnison, genlly. one third,
loaden with marchandrze for him, and his associate Borland
that is agent att boston ; were I to write halfe what the[y] doe,
should never have done, etc. Signed, G. Vane. 2 pp. [C.O.
217, 31. No. 6.]
404. Account for wood and coal for the Board of Trade, 1712.
33 18 9. 1 p. [C.O. 388, 76. No. 144.]
405. Mr. Secretary St. John to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following to be complied with. Signed,
H. St. John. Endorsed, Reed. 5th, Read 6th May, 1712. 1 p.
Enclosed,
405. i. Order of the House of Commons May 3, 1712. That
an Address be presented to H.M. that she will be pleased
to direct that the return made to the Council of Trade
and Plantations upon the losses of Nevis and St. Kitts
mav be laid before the House. Copy. 1 p. [C.O.
152, 9. Nos. 114, 114 i. ; and 153, 11. pp. 462, 463.]
406. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
St. John. Enclose further papers relating to the capitulation
at Nevis, 1706. [C.O. 153, 11. p. 464.]
407. Lt. Governor Spotswood to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.]
Repeats part of following. No signature. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1337.
No. 18,]
408. Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses duplicate of Feb. 8 and acknowledges
letters of Oct. 22 and Nov. 22. I shall by the return of our fleet
transmitt all the accounts required in the former, together with
the Journals of Council and the duplicates of those of the Assembly
being unwilling to trust them now to this uncertain conveyance
of a runing ship. I have nevertheless sent your Lordps. the
278 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
copye of the laws pass'd last session of Assembly, and shall also
send the duplicates of them by the Fleet. As to the proceedings
in settling the boundarys with Carolina (v. Nov. 22, 1711) I have
writt sundry times to the Govr. of that Province to appoint
persons for adjusting thereof, but he tells me he has received no
directions therein from the Lords proprietors ; so that your Lordps.
will be pleased to consider of some farther means to quicken the
Proprietors to put a speedy end to this dispute. We continue
still under the apprehensions of being attacked by the Indians :
for notwithstanding the Government of South Carolina sent a
body of 700 of their Indians commanded by some officers of that
Province, to the assistance of the people of North Carolina, and
that about the latter end of last January they fell upon some
towne of the Tuscaruros with pretty good success ; yet after
this first rancounter near 500 of them deserted, so that their
commander did not find himself in a condition to improve the
consternation into which that sudden eruption had put the enemy,
and in his next attempt upon one of their forts, he was forced to
draw off with considble. loss : however this seasonable succour
put new life into the people of that Province, and a new Assembly
being call'd, pass'd an Act to raise 4000 fo^ prosecuting the war
against the Indian enemy ; and because they could not raise a
sufficient body of men in that province, where the Quakers make
a great number of the inhabitants, they made application to me
for an assistance of 200 men from this Colony : the apparent
danger to which H.M. subjects there were exposed, more especially
by the Indians gathering fresh courage upon the repulse they had
given the South Carolina forces, together with the just grounds
there appeared to beleive that the whole Tuscaruro Nation were
confederated with those concerned in the massacre, not only
from their failing to perform any one of the engagements they
had entered into with this Government, but the trifling excuses
they made for that future at their comeing in to me in March
last, and the discoverys of their intreagues to seduce our Tributary
Indians to joine with them, were sufficient motives for agreeing
to the assistance desired by Carolina, as the most probable means
to divert the storm from our own frontiers ; so that upon a full
debate in two several councils, I had the unanimous advice of
the whole Council to send 100 men of our inhabitants and 100
of our tributary Indians to the assistance of Carolina ; and
because the Assembly had left me no fund to answer such an
occasion, and that there remained nothing in bank upon the
Revenue of 2s. per hhd., there was a necessity to defray the charge
of this expedition out of H.M. Revenue of quit-rents, since the
necessity was so pressing as would not admitt of the forms of
calling an Assembly, and the delays incident to their proceedings ;
but it was also agreed to demand of the Government of Carolina
to enter into a previous engagement in behalf of the Lords
Proprietors, that whatever sum should be imployed for this
service out of H.M. Quitt-rents should be refunded by the Lords
Proprietors, if H.M. thought fitt to demand it as being more
imediately imployed for the protection of their Government.
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 279
1712.
Upon this I proceeded to appoint the rendevouze of the soldiers,
and desired a conference with the Governor of North Carolina
for the better carrying on this service, but at my meeting him
he told me with great concern, that the Commander sent from
South Carolina had without his knowledge clapt up a peace with
the Indians, upon very unaccountable conditions at a time when
he had reduc'd one of their most considble. forts to the last
extremity and could not have miss'd takeing it in a few hours,
nor of breaking intirely the power of that enemy, if he would have
waited the arrival of the succours from hence, and the force then
raising in North Carolina to joine him. This weakness in the
conduct of their affairs, together with a more unaccountable
obstinacy in the Council of that province, in refusing to submitt
to H.M. determination the repayment of the money disbursed
here for their assistance, or of furnishing so much as provisions
for the forces sent from hence is as great a discouragement to
their neighbours as 'tis encouraging to the Heathen, who are not
such fools as not to perceive their weak efforts in carrying on the
war, as well as their easiness in making peace. And it happened
very luckily on this occasion, that I had not entered any of the
soldiers of this Government in pay, before I knew of this event,
so that all that expence is saved, and I have now nothing more
to think of than the defending our own frontiers against the
inroads of the Tuscaruros whenever they find themselves in a
condition to break this peace which nobody beleives will be long
lived. I beg leave here to represent to your Lordps. the ill
consequence of leaving this Government without money to apply
towards its exigencies in such a conjuncture as this is : for tho'
all the ballance of the quitt-rents was last year by H.M. order
apply ed towards buying provisions for the forces at Canada,
and considerable sums more advanced upon the credit thereof
by the Receiver General, myself and several other persons for
that service, which still remain undischarged, yet there is a late
order sent hither from the Treasury for remitting into the Ex-
chequer no less than 3000 out of that Revenue, which is more
than it can reasonably be supposed to raise in three years time :
and if this country should be attacked either by the Indians or
any other enemy, while the Revenue of 2s. per hhd. is so low, that
the whole last half years sallarys are yet in arrear, I know not
by what means men can be raised or subsisted to defend the
country : 'tis true if I should call an Assembly I might easily
perswade them to declare a war against the Indians, and to raise
money for carrying it on, but then your Lordps. will be pleased
to consider whether it be consistent with H.M. service or the
interest of Great Brittain to perinitt them to raise taxes in the
manner they projected at their last session, and I am very con-
fident as the humour of the country runs now, they would fall
upon the same method of taxing British manufactures : and there-
fore I must beg your Lordps. directions before I call an Assembly,
how far I ought to condescend to the disposition of the people in
a matter wherein I can't in my own private opinion concur with
them; Amongst other claims mentioned in my last as rejected
280 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
by the Assembly your Lordps. will observe about 270 for the
charge of the spy-boat fitted out by H.M. directions upon the
alarm last summer, some few charges about mounting the great
guns, and the subsistance of 80 french prisoners of war which
I sent home by the last fleet, the persons who disbursed this money
are still unpaid, and uneasy upon their disappointment : and I
am as much concerned that there is not money even for the dis-
charge of that small debt ; and since it was expended for H.M.
service, it would very much encourage people on the like occasions,
if I had directions to defray that charge out of the quitt-rents
in case the publick Revenue of the Government still proves
deficient. It is a great satisfaction to me to find by your Lordps.'
of Nov. 22nd that my endeavours in supplying Collo. Hunter
with pork for the Canada Expedition is acceptable to your
Lordps., and I beg your Lordps. will be pleased to accept of my
humble acknowledgements for the offer of useing your interest
with my Lord High Treasurer in my behalf. I have here sent
the account of what money I have been in disburse on that
occasion ; it has been examined and passed in Council, and
I flatter myself there will be no objection made against the
frugality of my management, since it will appear by the account,
that notwithstanding the great demand for pork at that time,
the first cost and whole charges of receiving, new pickling and
shiping doth very little exceed 45s. per barrell, a price frequently
paid here at that season of the year as the prime cost in private
dealings, and as I can with truth assure your Lordps. that I
proposed no gain to myself in this purchase, so I hope it will not
be thought reasonable that I should be a loser by lying any longer
out of my money, or suffering in my credit with the people to
whom I am still engaged for part of it. According to what I
had the honour to write in my last, the Baron de Graffenried is
come hither with a design to settle himself and several Swiss
familys in the Fork of Potomac, but when he expected to have
held his land there of H.M., he now finds claims made to it both
by the Proprietors of Maryland and the Northern neck, the Lord
Baltimore's agents claiming in his behalf to the head springs
of the South- West branch of Potomack, and my Lady Fairfax's
agents claiming to the head springs of the North-west branch :
tho' by the copys of the grants which I have seen, it appears to
me that H.M. has the right to that tract of land exclusive of both
Proprietors. I have writt to the Baron to send me a draught
of both those branches, which I shall by the first opportunity
transmit to your Lordps. ; and as the record of both grants may
be seen in the Chancery Office, I shall wait your Lordps.' directions
whether it be proper to insist on H.M. right. Amongst other
frauds heretofore used in obtaining rights for takeing up land in
this Colony (which I'm endeavouring to prevent) I have observed
that most of the rights upon which patents are now sued out, are
for the importation of persons into the Northern Neck ; the
Charter granted by King Charles II to this Colony, intitles
every person comeing to dwell here to 50 acres of land not already
granted ; but the Proprietors of the Northern Neck not thinking
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 281
1712.
themselves bound to grant their land on such a right, the people
who are imported into that part of this Colony, generally assign
their rights to others, who by virtue thereof claim land of H.M. :
but it being in my opinion very unreasonable that the persons
imployed in the improvement of the Proprietors' lands, should
be intitled to the same priviledge as those who improve H.M.
lands, I have stopt the granting patents upon those rights untill
H.M. pleasure shall be signifyed therein. The ascertaining the
value of forreign gold coins has been attempted in both the late-
Sessions of Assembly, and is what the people are very earnest
for ; 'tis true there are some inconveniencys which would accrue
to the country by putting a certain value upon gold, which I
don't observe to be fix'd in any other country : and for that
reason as well as fot that H.M. had not rated it in her proclama-
tion with the silver coin, I did riot think fitt to pass the Act
prepared for that purpose last session, but since it is like, the
Assembly may again at their next meeting, fall into the same
project of rateing foreign gold, as a matter which they beleive
of consequence to their trade, 1 should be glad to have your
Lordps.' opinion thereupon together with an estimate from the
mint at what it may be allowed to pass here. Coll. Bassett has
received H.M. letter for his being again of the Council, but as it
doth not mention his being admitted into his former place at
that Board, he has declined being sworne. As H.M. was pleased
to grant that favour to Collo. Digges, Collo. Smith and Collo.
Lewis upon their readmission into the Council, I hope this is only
an ommission, and not intended to cast a blott upon this gentle-
man, but that H.M. will be pleased to approve of his taking post
according to his former precedency, wch. is next to Collo. Lud-
well. I shal be glad to receive this signification of H.M. pleasure
either from your Lordps. or H.M. Principal Secretary of State,
without putting Collo. Basset to a new expence of fees, which
doth not well suit with a place, where there is no profitt to be
reap'd. Signed, A. Spotswood. Endorsed, Reed. July 9th, 1712.
Read Feb. 4th, 17}.' 6 pp. Enclosed,
408. i. Account of pork bought in Virginia for the use of
H.M. forces in Canada in 1711. (v. preceding}. Same
endorsement. \\ pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. Nos. 88, 88 i. ;
and (without enclosure) 5, 1363. pp. 441 452.]
[May 8.] 409. Petition of Robert Robinson to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. In Dec. 1708 Petitioner purchased for 200
from Edwd. Cowley his patent for the office of Register of the
Vice-Admiralty in New York, Connecticut and the New Jerseys,
granted to him May 8, 1708, by H.R.H. the late Lord High
Admiral with the salary belonging thereto of 100 per annum,
etc. Notwithstanding that Petitioner has been at the charge of
renewing the same in his own name, and has a deputy at New
York, and that Lord Clarendon, the late Governor, established
a salary of 100 a year for that office, yet the Government there
refuse to pay it. Prays the Board to recommend to the Lord
High Treasurer that the arrears due and future salary may be
282
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
May 9.
London.
[May 12.]
May 12.
Kensington.
May [12].
London.
paid out of the Treasury here. Endorsed, Reed. 8th, Read 9th
May, 1712. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 39.]
410. Certificate in favour of Mme. Saleiiave (v. April 17).
Signed, Cha. Mathew, Pen. Russell, Marv Pinney, Eliz. Moore,
Eliz. Renoult. [C.O. 153, 11. pp. 468, 469.]
41 1 . The case of the sufferers of Nevis and St. Kitts from the
French invasion. Endorsed, Reed. 12th, Read 13th May, 1712.
2pp. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 116.]
41 2. Order of Queen in Council. Approving draft of a Pro-
clamation containing H.M. most gracious and generall pardon
to those persons concerned in the rebellion at Antegua, and
the murder of Coll. Parks, except those H.M. hath been pleased
to except therein, etc. Governor Douglass is to publish the same
within 24 hours after the receipt thereof, or sooner if conveniently
it may bee, etc. Signed, Edward Southwell. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 11.
No. 77.]
413. Mr. Richier to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
At a meeting of ye Proprietors of New Jersie, upon reading over
ye names transmitted from thence to the Lords Commrs. for
Trade for their Lordps. to make choice of six persons to supply
ye place of five men in ye Council complain' d of both by ye
Assembly there and ye Proprietors here, vizt. William Pinhorn,
Peter Sunmans in ye Eastern Division, and Dan Cox, Hugh
Hoddy and Wm. Hall in ye Western, and one vizt. Richd. Towne-
ley lately deced. in ye Eastern, it is most humbly proposed by
ye said Proprietors that ye persons underment. may fill up ye
intended vacancies being men of substance and probity, recom-
mended both by ye Govern our and Assembly of yt. Province,
and approv'd of by ye Proprietors here. And ye said Proprietors
do make it their humble request to Paul Docminique Esq.
President of their Society, that he would represent this to ye
Rt. Hon. ye Lords Commrs. etc., that this may have ye needful
dispatch given it ; being well assured yt. if it be much longer
delayed, H.M. interest as well as yt. of ye people will suffer very
much by it, and ye province brought into ye utmost confusion.
Subscribed, names proposed, for the Eastern Division : John
Anderson, Wm. Morris, Elisha Parker ; for the Western, John
Hamilton, Tho. Byerly, Tho. Redding. Signed, E. Richier.
V.P. Endorsed, Reed. Read May 13, 1712. f p. [C.O. 5, 970.
No. 157 ; and 5, 995. pp. 157, 158.]
May 13.
Whitehall.
414. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Enclose warrants for H.M. signature, empowering the
Governors of Virginia and Maryland to use the new seals of those
provinces now prepared by Mr. Roos, H.M. Seal-cutter. Annexed,
414. i. Copy of Warrants referred to in preceding. [C.O. 5,
1363. pp. 402404 ; and 5, 1335. No. 171.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
283
1712.
May 13.
Johnson's
Court,
Fleetstreete.
May 14.
Whitehall.
May 15.
Whitehall.
415. George Tilden to Mr. Popple. In reply to a summons
to reply on behalf of Governor Lowther to the charges brought
against him concerning the ship Oxford (u. May 2nd), begs for
further time to be allowed. Signed, Geo. Tilden. Endorsed,
Reed. Read May 13th, 1712. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13.
No. 89 ; and 29, 12. pp. 424, 425.]
416. The Earl of Dartmouth to Governor Douglas. In
obedience to H.M. Orders in Council of 2nd and 12th of this inst.
May, you are to cause a General Amnesty to be publish 'd under
the scale of the Island to all H.M. subjects who may have been
any way concerned in the rebellion at Antegoa, and the murther
of the late Col. Parke, under the restrictions and reservations
specifyed in the draught hereunto annexed, which has been ap-
proved by H.M. I send you likewise enclosed duplicates of the
above-mentioned Orders of Council, that you may see more fully
what H.M. intentions are, and upon what mature and due con-
sideration these resolutions have been taken. I have nothing
more to say upon this subject, but that Her Majesty shewed some
surprize, that you had not already published a Pardon to this
effect in compliance with the Instructions given you before you
went to your Government. Signed, Dartmouth. Annexed,
416. i. Copy of Order of Queen in Council May 2, 1712.
416. ii. Copy of Order of Queen in Council May 12, 1712.
416. iii. Copy of Proclamation of General Pardon as ordered
Nos. 396, 412. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 145153.]
417. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of
Dartmouth. Reply to April 22. By an Act passed in Virginia
in 1684, the Militia is to be compleatly provided with arms, that
is to say, every trooper is to supply and. furnish himself, with a
good horse and all arms and furniture, fit and compleat for a
trooper, and every foot soldier is to furnish and supply himself
with a sword, musquet and other furniture fit for a soldier. In
1702, when the Militia of Virginia was in great want of arms and
ammunition, H.M. was graciously pleased to send a supply, the
estimate whereof, with the freight and incident charges amounted
to 3388 3s. 4d., and by H.M. letter, the Governor was directed
to make good that sum to the Board of Ordnance out of H.M.
Revenue of Quit-rents there : and further in case it should be
found necessary, to deliver any of the said arms or stores for the
ordinary service of the Militia, that he should take care to see
H.M. reimbursed for the same by such persons to whom such
stores should be deliver'd, and that the mony arising thereby
be put into the hands of H.M. Receiver General to be disposed
of as H.M. should direct. But it does not appear to us that H.M.
has been repaid the said sum. And therefore if H.M. is now
pleased to send a supply of arms, ammunition and stores of war
to Virginia, we humbly offer that the Governor be directed not
to deliver any of the said arms or stores, but to such persons as
shall pay for the same, and that the mony arrising thereby be
remitted by bills to the Board of Ordnance ; and that the Governor
284 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
be further directed to take care that the Militia be provided with
arms and necessaries according to the abovementioned Act.
[C.O. 5, 1363. pp. 405, 406 ; and 5, 1335. No. 172.]
May 15. 418. Lt. Governor Spotswood to the Council of Trade and
Virginia. Plantations. Refers to May 8th re Carolina boundary Commis-
sioners. I have since seen the Instructions of the Governor of
North Carolina sent lately with his Commission, but do not find
the least mention of the boundarys, no more than if such a con-
troversy had never been depending. I cannot ommitt observing
to your Lordps. one thing in those Instructions, which is like to
prove very prejudicial to this Colony, and that is, a power given
by the Lords Proprietors for the space of seven years to dispose
of their lands at the rate of 20<s. each thousand acres for the first
purchase, and twelve pence quitt-rent yearly for every hundred
(which is but one fifth of what is paid here for obtaining rights to
take up the Queen's land, and one hah* of the yearly quitt-rent
payable to H.M. for the same) and without any obligation on the
patentees there to seat or cultivate. The publication of such a
priviledge has already wrought so much on the people here, that
great numbers are flocking to that Province to take up land, and
there's no doubt many more will follow upon the prospect of
having what tracts they please on such easy terms. This ex-
cursion of the people into North Carolina, as well as into the lands
of the other neighbouring Proprietors will be very much furthered
by a general opinion lately revived that there are gold and silver
mines in these parts towards the mountains : and because in
the grants to the Proprietors, the share of the Crown in Royal
mines is ascertained, and no such declaration made for those found
in the lands held immediatly of H.M., people propose to themselves
a greater advantage by seeking after them in the former. For
this reason, I'm told, some persons who heretofore had, or fancy'd
they had made such discoverys here, were discouraged to prosecute
them, and dyed with the secret. But now that the same opinion
is revised, and the humor of making discoverys become more
universal, I humbly offer it to your Lordps.' consideration,
whether so great a profitt as may redound from the discovering
and working such mines ought to be lost for want of a declaration
what share H.M. expects out of them. I find by the grant to the
Company that first settled this Colony, the Crown reserved the
fifth part of all silver and gold mines, and that accordingly the
ancient patents express the same : since the dissolution of that
Company that the soil reverted to the Crown, the patents con-
veyed to the patentees of the land, a due share of all mines and
minerals ; but what that share is, has never yet been determined :
and in the Act of Assembly concerning the granting of lands
pass'd in the year 1706 (but now repealed) the forme of the
patents there established, gave entirely to the patentee all mines
and minerals without any reservation ; and tho' your Lordps.
made some alterations in the draught of the bill before it passed
here into a law, yet I don't find that part of it was questioned
or altered, and some patents granted by my predecessors while
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 285
1712.
that law was in force, have the same clause in them. But upon
the repeal of that Act, I altered the forme of the patents in this
particular, and made them conformable to the former, vizt. by
granting with the land only [a due share of all mines etc.] believing
that share ought most properly to be determined by the Crown.
Wherefore I hope your Lordps. will be pleased to move H.M. for
a speedy declaration what share is expected if any royal mines
are found in the lands already patented under H.M. grant ; and
whether if any such be discovered on lands not yet patented, I
ought to grant those lands to any private person who makes the
discovery ? The ascertaining this will encourage people to make
discoverys on the Queen's land, and if found will keep them where
they may bring more profitt to the Crown then by runing on the
like projects in the lands of any of the neighbouring Proprietors :
and since by the Charter to the Proprietors of the Northern
Neck, there is only reserved to the Crown the fifth of all gold and
tenth of all silver oar, your Lordps. will not I hope think it
unreasonable to propose to H.M. that for the encouragement of
H.M. more immediate tennants in the other parts of this Colony,
no greater proportion be demanded of them. I am the more
desirous of some speedy directions herein, because I have great
reason to believe there are mines lately discovered here, and I
would willingly promote as far as I am able anything that may
be for the service of H.M. and the good of this country. It is
like some of these mountains may bring forth only such imaginary
oar as I find some people heretofore have busyed themselves
about, and that others may prove such barren ones as not to
countervail the charge of working, yet 'tis also possible that the
earth in this part of the Continent may partake of the same
mineral qualitys with that of the more Southern climates, and
that the dillegence of inquisitive or fanciful men may in the end
prove of very good consequence both to the Soveraign and the
subject. I forgot to mention in my last the success our guard
ships have had in the West Indies : I gave them leave last winter
to go to Barbados, not only for convoying our trade thither,
but in consideration that they might be more serviceable there
than here during the winter season. Having join'd some of H.M.
ships attending those Islands, they fell in with a fleet of 17 sail
bound for Martinico, and took twelve of them, and amongst the
rest the man of war that convoy'd them, taken by Capt. Smith
in the Enterprize attending this station. The Bedford galley
arrived here the other day, and brought in a French merchant
ship loaded with sugar, indico and cocoa, and I hear Capt. Pudner
in the Severn, one of the convoys to the Virginia Fleet, has taken
and carryed into New York a French privateer of 180 men, wch.
very much infested this coast. I shal not trouble your Lops,
with a duplicate of my last till the return of our Fleet, etc. Signed,
A. Spotswood. Endorsed, Reed. Sept, 15th, Read Feb. 26th, 17}f .
3 pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 89; and 5, 1363. pp. 453458.]
May 15. 419. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Whitehall. Treasurer. Representation upon the petition of Robert Lee.
286
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
May 15.
Jamaica.
May 15.
Jamaica.
May 15.
Refer to previous reports (Aug. 1689, May 1694, and C.S.P. 1703,
No. 416), agreeing in substance that the late Earl of Stirling
was granted a pension of 300 per annum to be paid him out
of the surplusage of the neat profits of the Revenue arising out
of New York, etc. Continue : But in regard we are not possess'd
of the accots. of the Revenue of New York, we do not know how
the same has been expended and are not therefore able to inform
your Lordp. whether there has been any surplusage in the Revenue
there, to compensate the petitioners for their pension and the
interest accruing thereon. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 500, 501.]
420. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Earl of Dartmouth.
Refers to letter of Jan. 19, by H.M.S. Anglesea : since which I
have not been favour'd with any of your Lop's, commands ;
nor indeed ever since my departure from England : However
I think it a part of my duty to acquaint your Lordp. of such
occurrences here as I think worthy of your Lordship's notice.
Repeats case of David Creagh etc., and account of Jamaica crops, (v.
No. 423). As for news, we have intelligence here that there are
three galleoons expected soon at Carthagena from old Spain ; and
Commodore Littleton has ordered some of the ships under his
command, to cruize some weeks off that place in order to inter-
cept them, if possible etc. We have a report of an insurrection
in the Kingdom of Peru ; but have none of the particulars as yet,
further than that some merchants lately arrived from the coast,
assure me that the money design'd from Lima for Panama, and
from thence to Portobell has been stopt upon that accot., etc.
Signed, A. Hamilton. 3 pp. [C.O. 137, 51. No. 61.]
421. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to Mr. Lewis. Acknow-
ledges letter of Oct. 19th. I'm sory to find by letters of a fresher
date yt. there has been such heats and de vision since ye opening
of ye Sessions, both in relation to ye Peace and ye affaire of ye
Peers of Scotland in ye House of Lords, etc. The next shipps
from Europe are expected with impatience, hopeing by them to
receive accts. of a further advance made in ye Peace ; which is
earnestly wished for in these parts, which doe not at present
afford any newse worth taking notice of, more then in generall
yt. this Island is in good condition as to plainty of Plantation
provision and a prospect of a greate crope of sugar, the weather
haveing been more seasonable then has been knowne here for
many years, etc. Signed, A. Hamilton. 2 pp. [C.O. 137, 51.
No. 60.]
422. Sir John St. Leger to [? the Earl of Dartmouth, or the
Lord High Treasurer, v. Feb. 9]. I received a letter from one
Mr. Thornton of Nevis dated March 17, 1711 (=12) ; which
intimates that one Mr. William Douglass was just arrived from
Antego as express from the governor, and that he had a large
packet for the Secretary of State with the proclamation for a
general pardon, and several papers relating to Lt. General Hamil-
ton, and that ye said William Douglass went on board the same
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 287
1712.
ship with General Hamilton, being a ship of some force, which
I understand is taken by the enemy. Signed, John St. Leger.
f p. Enclosed,
422. i. Copy of Governor Douglas' Proclamation of H.M.
General Pardon etc. Duplicate of Feb. 6. H pp.
422. ii. Address of the Assembly of Antigua to Governor
Douglas in Council. Return thanks for preceding. Signed,
Sa. Watkins, Speaker. Copy, f p. [C.O. 152, 42. Nos.
84, 84 i., ii.]
May 15. 423. Governor Lord A. Hamilton to the Council of Trade
Jamaica. an( j Plantations. Encloses duplicate of March 8, since which
I have not been favour 'd with any of your Lordps.' commands.
I have not as yet been able to procure to your Lops, a satisfactory
accot. of the number of inhabitants etc., not having received the
musters of all the militia regiments, nor returns from the parish-
books from which' this accot. must be collected. As to an accot. of
births, christenings and burials, I have long since given directions
to the Commissarys and other Ministers, for having abstracts
of their several registers of these particulars : But upon full
enquiry, I find that as some parishes want ministers, there is not
any register kept in them ; others are so lame and imperfect
that there is no dependence to be had upon them ; for, in most
of the parishes, the far greater part of the inhabitants who die
here, are buried in the respective plantations to which they
belong : many are so remote from parish churches that, by reason
of the badness of weather, over-flo wings of rivers etc., the ministers
are seldom call'd to such burials : so that in several parishes,
the frequent deaths, changes or other removal of ministers,
church-wardens and clerks of vestries, remoteness of many places
from the parish-churches etc. make it almost impracticable to
keep such registers as would seem requisite to make up such an
accot. of these particulars as your Lops, require ; without much
more trouble and charges than the nature of the thing will bear.
For tho' the whole Island is divided in distinct parishes and
districts ; yet there [? are] still indefinite vast tracts of land
uninhabited in all of them to this hour ; which makes all manner
of communication from one place to another in most parts of
the Island, more difficult than probably your Lops, imagine.
I thought by this conveyance to have sent your Lops, the Receiver
General's accot. current, from Lady-day, 1711 1712. But a
severe fit of sickness, of which he is not as yet recovered, has
hindered him from attending the Council for passing his accots.
there in due form. However I hope to send them by the next
opportunity that shall offer. Refers to enclosures, compiled
according to instructions, etc. I have, with the advice of the
Council, resolved upon making a considerable addition of a new
line to the present fortifications at Port Royal, as being the place
of most importance : But in regard it is found by experience, that,
upon several accots., planks can never be made serviceable for
platforms, at least not durable, and that we can not get stones
here fit for that purpose ; I have, by the advice of the Council
288 COLONIAL PAPERS
1712.
likewise, given commission to have a considerable quantity of
stone fit for that service brought from England ; and in the mean
time, while materials are a getting ready for Port-Royal, I have
set the Engineer at worke in building a small fort for the security
of Port-Morant, a very convenient harbour to the windward ;
and which will likewise be of great advantage to all tradeing
vessels going to and from the north side of this Island, in case
of any danger by privateers or storms etc. I think it my duty
to acquaint your Lordps. that one David Creagh, merchant and
supercargo of a sloop of and belonging to Barbados, coming some
time ago into Port-Royal Harbour, and being found to have
traded with the Queen's enemies, and to have clandestinely
convey'd aboard another ship then lying at anchor in the Harbour
some goods of the growth of the French Plantations, his sloop and
what was found of the cargo were thereupon seized and condemned
in the Admiralty Court of this Island, and himself committed
upon accot. of High Treason, as corresponding and trading with
the Queen's enemies : But in regard that, by the Attorney
General's opinion, the said David Creagh is not tryable for that
species of treason, any where but in Britain ; I have with the
unanimous opinion and advice of the Council, sent him for Eng-
land on board H.M.S. the Jersey ; and for your Lops', more
particular information of the said David Creagh 's case, I must
referr you to the herewith inclosed state thereof ; which I hope
may satisfy your Lordships as to the legality of the proceedings
here against him. I have the satisfaction of acquainting your
Lordships further that the state of this Island is generally much
improved of late, with respect to the seasons ; there being a very
plentiful crop of sugars and plantation-provisions in most parts
thereof ; which I hope may ease the inhabitants of those difficulties
they lay under lately through the scarcity of both the one and the
other. P.8. I thought by this conveyance to have sent home
in the same ship with Mr. Creagh the two persons who gave
evidence against him here : But unluckily Commadore Littleton
(who took charge of them all along on board one of the Queen's
ships to save expenses) forgot to keep them in harbour, when the
ship in which they are went last to sea : However upon her
return from her present cruize, I'll take care to have them sent,
by the very next conveyance. Signed, A. Hamilton. Endorsed,
Reed. July 22, 1712, Read July 17, 1713. 5| pp. Enclosed,
423. i.-v. Accounts of stores of war in the forts etc. in Jamaica,
April, 1712. Endorsed as preceding. 6 pp.
423. vi. Case against David Creagh of Barbados, who sailed
in the sloop Friendship from Barbados with negroes
and dry goods and traded them for indigo in the French
settlements in Hispaniola, transferring the same in
the harbour of Port Royal to the Union, and Robert
and Francis speedily bound for London, etc. Same
endorsement. If pp.
423. vii. Report by Capt. Francis Hawkins, Engineer ; the
fortifications of Port Royal and all other the fortifica-
tions of Jamaica are much out of repair. Proposes
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 289
1712.
works at Port Royal, Port Morant etc. Signed, Francis
Hawkins. Same endorsement. 1 p.
423. viii. (a) Imports of Jamaica, Sept. 29, 1711 March 25,
1712. Number of ships, from England 17, from the
Plantations, 38. Negroes, by the separate traders,
2228. Madera wines, provisions, tars, pitch, etc. 1 p.
(b) Exports from Jamaica Sept. 29, 1711 March 25,
1712. Number of ships, to England, 14 ; to the Plan-
tations, 17. Sugar, to England, 1892 hhds., 4 barrels ;
to the Plantations, 20 hhds., 78 tierces, 82 barrels,
4 chests, 100 Ib. Rum, to England, 2 hhds., 1 tierce ;
to the Plantations, 6 hhds., 7 tierces, 9 barrels, 31 pipes
and puncheons, 30 jarrs. Lime juice, to England,
2 puncheons, 4 hhds., 1 barrel, 10 casks ; to the Planta-
tions, 16 puncheons, 11 hhds., 4 tierces, 38 barrels,
1 cask. Molosses, to the Plantations, 83 hhds., 1 barrel.
Piemento, 54 hhds., 1 tierce, 17 barrels, 76 casks, 14
baggs .; to the Plantations, 3 barrels, 20 casks. Indico,
to England, 141 barrels, 105 casks ; to the Plantations,
1 bag. Cotton, to England, 166 baggs. Ginger, to
England, 943 baggs. Cocoa, to England, 12 casks,
10 baggs ; to the Plantations, 5 hhds. Logwood, to
England, 38 tuns ; to the Plantations, 8. Fustick, to
England, 22 tuns. Tortoiseshell, to England, 2 barrels.
Sarsaparilla, to England, 60 baggs, 389 bales. Vigonia
wool, to England, 69 bags. Nicorogo or stockfish wood,
to England, 39 tuns. Spanish hides, to England, 58 ;
to the Plantations, 100. Salt, to the Plantations,
9 hhds., 500 bushels, and a few other small items.
The whole endorsed as preceding. 2 pp. [C.O. 137, 10.
Nos. 8, 8 i.-viii. ; and (without enclosures) 138, 13.
pp. 461-468.]
[May 16.J 424. Petition of Mr. du Pre, Commissary of the Palatines'
stores at New York, to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Petitioner has been detained in England 15 months longer than
H.E. Brigadier Hunter did expect, without obtaining any satis-
faction about the settlement of the Palatins. Prays to be
dispatched to H.E. with the Board's commands by a man of
war now about to sail. Signed, James du Pre. Endorsed,
Reed. 16th, Read 20th, 1712. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 41 ;
and 5, 1122. p. 502.]
May 17. 425. Edward Collins to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Presses
Wimbledon, the claims of his brother John Collins, Commander of the Fort
rey - at St. Johns, Newfoundland, (v. Jan. 21, 1711), that he may not
be " under the blast of being excluded from that post, to make
way for one so undeserving and unfit, as is his competitor, Mr.
Gully, who was Lieutent. under Major Lloyd in the Fort, when
it was last yielded (if not worse) to the French in so base and
scandalous a manner, etc. The last ships that will goe this sum-
mer are now going," etc. Signed, Edward Collins. 2 pp. [C.O.
194, 23. No. 6.]
Wt. 26089. C.P. 19.
290
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
May ID.
May 19.
May 21.
May 21.
Whitehall.
May 21.
Admiralty
Office.
May 23.
Kensington.
May 27.
Whitehal.
May 27.
Whitehall.
426 . Duke of Leeds to [ ? the. Earl of Dartmouth. ] Recommends
Mr. John Collins, who wishes for a speedy answer to his petition,
May 17. Signed, Leeds. 2 pp. [(7.0. 194, 23. No. 7.]
427. Certificate by Lady Russell etc. Madame Salenave,
after the taking of the French part of St. Kitts, was restor'd
to the estate she had formerly there, and when she came over to
England she left her plantation under the care of Lt. Robert
Cuningham, who marry'd her own neece, and had the manage-
ment thereof, till by the Treaty of Ryswick the French did
recover what they had in the Island before the war. Signed,
Pen. Russell, Cha. Mathew, Eliz. Renoult, and 2 others. En-
dorsed, Reed. 21st May, 1712, Read 6th April, 1714. f p. [C.O.
152, 10. No. 14.]
428. Mr. Popple to William Dockwra. The Council of
Trade and Plantations having under consideration some matters
relating to New Jersey, desire to speak with you on Tuesday, etc.
[C.O. 5, 995. p. 158.]
429. Mr. Popple to Josiah Burchett. The Council of Trade
and Plantations recommend Mr. du Pre's request for accomodation
on a man of war ete. (v. May 16). [C.O. 5, 1122. p. 503.]
430. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. Reply to preceding. Orders
will be given to Capt. Vanbrugh, H.M.S. Sorling, as desired.
Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed, Reed. 23rd May, 1712. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 1050. No. 42 ; and 5, 1122. p. 504.]
431 . Order of Queen in Council. Referring following to the
Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed,
Edward Southwell. Endorsed, Reed. 5th, Read 19th June,
1712. | p. Enclosed,
431. i. Petition of Robert Lowther, Governour of Barbados,
to the Queen. Following the controversy between
himself and A. Skeen, prays to be allowed to appoint
a private secretary etc. Set out, A.P.C. II. p. 661, q.v.
Copy. 1| pp. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos. 92, 92 i. ; and
29, 12. pp. 434, 435.]
432. Mr. Popple to Mr. Tilden (v. May 13). Governor
Lowther having transmitted a great many new papers relating
to the Oxford, the Council of Trade and Plantations have put the
hearing off to a further day, etc. [C.O. 29, 12. p. 428.]
433. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following for their report. Signed, Dart-
mouth. Endorsed, Reed. May 30th, Read June 2nd, 1712. 1 p.
Enclosed,
433. i. Petition of Merchants of New York to the Queen. The
trade and navigation of this city was formerly very
considerable, having great number of vessels thereunto
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 291
1712.
belonging whereby many of your Majesty's subjects
were kept in a constant imploy. But to their unexpress-
ible grief the same is now greatly reduced, which we
cannot but attribute to those discouragements your
Majesty's subjects meet withall by your ships of war
loading themselves from this port to the West Indies,
with beef, pork and flower, and bringing from thence
rum, sugar, and the other produce of your Majesty's
Islands and Plantations, depriving us by that means
of the benefit and advantage to carry the same with our
own vessels, and which not only now is but hath been
the constant practice of your Majesty's friggots for
many years pass'd, whereby the merchants of this city
are discouraged from laying out their moneys in building
of shipping to the ruin of many families and the pre-
judice of all the traders and inhabitants of this city and
province in general. Pray that H.M. ships appointed
for convoys and to spend the winter in the West Indies
may not be permitted to carry any of the commodities
abovementioned as merchandize. And whereas the
privateers do every year in April appear in great numbers
on our coasts doing considerable damage to our trade
and navigation, most of our vessels going out and
returning home about that time, [we pray] that the
Commanders of your Majesty's ships may be directed
to return from the West Indies in such time as to be
ready to cruize for our security the beginning or middle
of that month at furthest. New York, Feb. 20, 1711.
Signed, Caleb Heathcote, Rip Van Dam, Abram van
Hans, Adrian Hooglant, Stephen De Lancey, Law.
Reade, And. Fresneau, John van Home, John Reade,
Walter Thong, Tho. Davenport, Morgn. Cornock,
Garrit van Home, Richd. Burke, Henry Cuyler, Bart.
Feurt, Tho. Tarpy, B. Rynders, Wm. Smith. [C.O. 5,
1050. Nos. 43, 43 i. ; and 5, 1122. pp. 504507.]
May 28. 434. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Barbados, tations. About eight dayes ago some merchant shipes cleared
at some of the offices here, for several partes of Great Britain,
and the Masters thereof attended upon me for leave to sail, upon
which I told them that they might go from hence whenever they
pleased, if they had the Queen's letter : a little after this they
went to the Secretaries Office, and entered a protest against me,
and everybody that were in any wayes instrumental in detaining
them here, and not only made a mighty clamour, but got several
merchantes and other people to join with them in it, but, this
not having the intended effect, they not only petitioned me and
got several considerable merchantes to joyn with them in it,
but collected a good sum of mony amongst themselves, and
deposited in the hands of a certain person, with an intent to have
made me a present of it, but tho' I would not accept of it, yet, in
consideration that the alligations of this petition were true, and that
292 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
their stay for a convoy might almost cause as much damage and
loss to their owners, as if they should be taken by the enemy,
I did suffer them to sail : I was the easier induced to grant the
prayer of their petition because in my 78th Instruction, I am
commanded not to suffer any tradeing shipes from hence to
England but in fleetes, or under the convoy or protection of
some of H.M. shipes of warr : now in regard they were ten sail
of shipes which were desirous to sail for Great Britain, I hope
your Lordshipes will judge that number a Fleet within the Queen's
Instructions ; since the said Instruction does not limit it to any
certain number : however, I desire your Lordshipes to give me
directiones what to do, if the same case should happen again,
for if I had detained the shipes here upon account of the want of
a convoy, they would have complained, and if any of them should
have the misfortune to be taken, it is a question but they will
lay the blame upon me, your Lordshipes will perceive by the
inclosed papers, that I gave Captain Constable orders to convoy
this Fleet into the Latitude of 20, and that he was so far from
yielding any obedience thereto, that he sent me word by my
Secretary Mr. Upton that he would not comply with the orders
I had sent him : I beg leave to add, that there is not one time in
twenty that the men of war which attend this station take any
manner of notice of the orders I give them, which is the occasion
of the loss of many vessels, and therefore I find myself under a
necessity to repeat the state of this matter to your Lordshipes,
that I may not now, nor at any time hereafter be blamed or
condemned for the loss or damage which the Queenes subjectes
sustaines here, either for want of their doing their duty, or my
representation of the matter : I think I have already informed
your Lordshipes that I have no power over the men of war by
vertue of my Vice-Admiraltyes Commission, nor by any of my
Instructions except the 69th, and there is a clause towardes the
latter end of that Instruction which directes me not to exercise
any power over the men of war, unless by commission or authority
of the Lord High Admiral, or the Commissioners of the Admiralty
for the time being. There are some disputes between the Council
and Assembly, upon account of the Excise Bill, which hath
occasioned some loss to the publick, but I hope I shall be able to
compose that matter in a little time. I had not time to prepare
duplicates of all the papers I sent by Stone, but if they have not
reach'd your Lordshipes, I desire you will informe me of it, and
I will send them by the first opportunity : the accountes which
your Lordshipes writ for are not finished, but you shall have them
by the Fleet, and indeed some of them are of that consequence that
it is neither prudent nor safe to send them by any conveyance but
a man of war. I am sensible there are several people both here
and in England that do seek all opportunities to do me ill offices,
and to render my poor services unacceptable to the Queen and
your Lordshipes, tho' upon several views and designes, but
notwithstanding my infirmities, I humbly hope your Lordshipes
will not think it an easy matter to satisfy a factious and divided
people, who do, and will gratify their inclinations and passiones
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 293
1712.
in oppositition to all authority, law, and reason, and who carry
on their designes by false reportes, clamour, arid injustice, but
let the consequence of such a policy be what it will, I shall always
do what becomes me in the station I am : I must humbly intreat
your Lordshipes to retain a favourable opinion of me, and not to
censure any of my actions upon common fame and the reportes
of some malicious disappointed persons, or to think me faulty
upon any accusation that my enemyes have, or may exhibit
against me, till I have had an opportunity to answer their charge,
etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Reed. July llth, 1712,
.Read July 17th, 1713. Holograph. 4pp. Enclosed,
434. i. Deposition of Arthur Upton, May 29, 1712. On the
27th deponent took the Governor's orders to Capt.
Constable, H.M.S. Panther (No. iii.). He answered
that he did not know of any trade bound out, for they
had not made any application to him, and since they
did not, he should not take any notice of them, etc.
Signed, A. Upton. Same endorsement, f p.
434. ii. Petition of several Commanders of Merchant ships
to Governor Lowther, praying leave to sail for Great
Britain. Should they be detained till the London
Fleet is ready to sail, their ships would be prejudiced
by the wormes, and their cables destroyed by the heat
of the water, etc. 17 Signatures. Same endorsement.
2pp.
434. iii. Governor Lowther to Capt. Constable. You are to
convoy the trade now bound for Great Britain as farr
as the latitude of twenty, etc. May 27, 1712. Signed,
Robert Lowther. Same endorsement. Copy. 1 p. [(7.0.
28, 14. Nos. 1, 1 i.-iii. ; and (without enclosures) 29,
13. pp. 4652.]
May 30. 435. Petition of Mr. du Pre to the Council of Trade and
London. Plantations. Prays to be allowed a small supply of money to
enable him to return to New York, etc. (v. May 16). Signed,
James du Pre. Endorsed, Reed. May 30th, Read June 22nd, 1712.
1 p. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 44.]
June 2. 436. Mr. Henderson's Short State of the Church of England
planted in the Provinces of New York and New Jersey in America.
In New York, the Dissenters have taken forcible possession of the
glebe etc. of Jamaica on Long Island which belongs to one of
the six Churches of the Church of England, and keep the same
from the present incumbent (v. March 1st), and that by the
countenance of Governor Hunter, who turned out of the com-
mission of the peace and other places of the Government, the
gentlemen of the Church of England who promoted dissenters
in their room, etc. In New Jersey there are but four ministers
of the Church of England. The Quakers and other dissenters
are most numerous and do make up the greatest part of the
Assembly, which is the reason why no Law has been passed in
the Church's favour, but they have not been able to doe any
294
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
[June 2.]
Treasury
Chambers,
Whitehall.
June 3.
Whitehal.
harm to it, in regard that the plurality of the Queen's Council
are good churchmen etc. The dissenters have at their head
Col. Lewis Morris, a profess'd Churchman, but a man of noe
principles or credit, a man who calls the service of the Church of
England pageantry, who has joyned in endeavours to settle a
conventicle in New York, and whose practice it is to intercept
letters, etc. He with Governor Hunter have written to the Lords
of Trade to turn out of the Councill six Church of England men
and to put in six others in their room, some of them Dissenters,
and those that are of the Church are such as will run into all the
measures of the Assembly and therefore of the worst consequence
to the Church, etc. Gives good characters of the Councillors it
is proposed to remove and bad ones of those intended to succeed,
as Set out, N.Y. Docs. V.pp. 334, 335 q.v. Signed, Jacob Hender-
son, Missionary, Dover Hundred in Pensilvania. Endorsed,
Reed. June 12, 1712. 4pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 48.]
437. Mr. Lowndes to [? Mr. Popple.] The Lord High
Treasurer refers the following to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations for their report. Signed, Wm. Lowndes. Endorsed, Reed.
2nd, Read 5th June, 1712. \ p. Enclosed,
437. i. Petition of [? Stephen] Duport to the Lord High
Treasurer. Prays, on behalf of Ralph Willet, the
confirmation of a grant of land in St. Kitts made to him
by Lt. Governor Walter Hamilton for 2| years, in case
the war shall so long continue. 1 p. Mem. superscribed,
Mr. Duport withdrew this petition etc. July 4, 1712.
437. ii. The Lord High Treasurer refers preceding to Wm.
Blathwayt, Auditor General of H.M. Plantations, for
his report. Signed, Wm. Lowndes, May 23, 1712. ^ p.
437. iii. Mr. Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer. Reply
to preceding. Such grant being conformable to H.M.
letters of Nov. 30, 1705, may fitly be confirmed subject
to the limitation mentioned in the petition (No. 1 supra).
Signed, Wm. Blathwayt. May 28, 1712. If pp.
437. iv. Copy of a grant of 120 acres in the former French
Basseterre quarter of St. Kitts for 2| years to Ralph
Willet. Signed, Wr. Hamilton, May 16, 1711. 1 p.
[C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 117, 117 i.-iii.]
438. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of Dart-
mouth. Reply to May 21th. We are humbly of opinion, that H.M.
ships of war taking goods on freight to carry from one Plantation
to another is a practice not only dishonourable, but also pre-
judicial to the owners of shipping in the said Plantations, and
ought therefore to be strictly forbid for the future ; and we further
humbly offer that, H.M. ships of war at New York that go in the
winter to the West Indies may have directions to return so as to
be at New York by the beginning or middle of April at furthest
for the security of the trade of that Province from the French
privateers that cruize upon that coast about that time. Auto-
graph signatures. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1085. No. 3; and 5, 1123.
pp. 18, 19.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
295
1712.
[June 6.]
June 8.
Carolina ii
America.
439. i. Advertisement of a subscription list, to be opened on
June 26, for setting up iron and steel works in New
England and copper works in Connecticut, etc. By
order of the Mineral Master General (i.e. Moses Stringer).
At the New England Coffee-House, behind the Royal
Exchange, London. Seal of Mineral Master General
imprinted at head of broadsheet. Printed. 1 p.
439. ii. A scheme for improving the mines, the mineral and
the battery works, in New England. A prospectus for
above. Printed. 4 pp.
439. iii. Mineralia Adjuvanda, or A Case shewing who, and
what the most Ancient and Honourable Societies and
Corporations of the City of London (of and for the Mines,
the Mineral and Battery Works) are, etc., and that the
said Societies were founded by Queen Elizabeth, above
140 years before Sir Humphery Mackworth and William
Waller became tenents to their silver mills in Cardigan-
shire, etc., or the upstart Company of Mine-Adventurers
imposed on H.M. and people and discouraged mine and
mineral works by their base arid scandalous stock-
jobbings and dealings, etc. Printed. 4 pp.
439. iv. Minutes of the Mineral Court relating to above scheme.
Printed, pp. 4 8 incomplete. The whole endorsed, Reed.
6th, Read 12th June, 1712. [C.O. 5, 865. Nos. 8285.]
440. John Stewart to [? the Earl of Dartmouth. ~\ Refers to
letter of last summer, copies of which were sent to H.M. and her
Ministers etc. I have already told your Lop. that the holding
and keeping of the British Empire in America and the wealth
thereby yearly to the nation is guarded by our Indians, and that
whether we or France have the most warlike and numerous body
of them as ours or thers commands all North America, and all
the Indians North of the sea of Mexico must either be ours or
France's in a lytle tyme, there is no other medium and that unles
we keep portroyall in Nova Scotia, and do not conquer and take
Quebeck and Mouiitroyall, all the Northern Colonies will be lost
to Great Britan, and if Fort Movill built and garisoned by the
Frencli lying at the foot of Movill River on the sea of Mexico
bordering near ye Indians who live on the same river, and where
I was 20 year ago, I say unles Movill Fort be bomb'd out at the
charge of the parliament and raz'd or deserted by two lynes in
the ensuing peace of Christendom, if not so, in a very few years
the French Chacta, Tumi and Movill Indians will be too strong
for all our Indians and Carolina has more in number and far more
martiall then all the other 9 British Colonies in the North have,
so that Carolina, Virginia and Maryland will be lost to the British
nation, and must become the frenches. I have liv'd some years
500 myls distant from any Christian town, plantation, hutt or
howse among Indians, and have travel'd with an Indian army of
1300 men in ther war expeditions 30 days without seing an
Indian hutt or howse, so I know very well what most of Indians
ar. I have seen some parts of all the Kingdoms of Europ, and
296 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
two Empyrs, seen Chinoes, Tartar Turk and Persian and 8
Colonies in America, and I do know that neve[r] was any Indian
Nation or race of mankind more savage, fearce and brutall then
the Chactaes ar, they cannot be fategued or harrast but ar
invincible, they run up to the very musle of ther enemies' guns
with unparalyd and undanted resolution. I knew them ten
years ere ev'r the French wheedl'd them to ther interests, they
have got into the exercise and practise of 700 guns and so soon
as all ar they'l drive all our Indians and us to into the sea or bring
all our Indians over to them. Had we no Indians to be our out
and home guards, 100 such were able to drive all the whites into
the sea, etc. Nay 100 wer able to harras all the armyes on both
syds now in Flanders wer they 100 myls in our woods, for nothing
but fortified places can stand before them, they run faster then
horses, they find food evrywher, by nature growing to ther hand
and ev'rywher they have impregnable Castles of Kain swamps,
mashes, bogs and morasses to retreat to. The chief design of this
letter is to put my Superiors in mind by humbly laying before
them the considerations foresaid, but more especialy to remynd
them that to conquer Quebeck, Montroyall and Canada the
forces sent must be more then sufficient ?nd sutably qualifyed
especialy highlandes, and they must come seasonably, that is,
tymously there. They must be at Boston by the first of March,
etc. Let us possess Movill, Mountroyall and Quebeck, and we
shall possess all the traffick of the ocean and become the arbiters
of Europe, etc. My great grand-father was naturall son to K.
James I of Scotland and my father true heir to Patrick Stewart,
Earl of Orkney, his uncle, but our family being banisht by the pres-
biterian party lost his uncle's estate, etc. The nation has already
by act of parliament m.ade use of 4 of my projects, and so to me
now ther is a royall and nationall bounty due. I am very old
and very poor, etc., ete. Signed, John Stewart. 4 closely written
pp. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 16.]
June 9. 441 . Mr. Taylour to Mr. Popple. The Lord High Treasurer
Whitehall, desires the opinion of the Council of Trade and Plantations upon
ChamS the following. Signed, J. Taylour. Endorsed, Reed. 10th, Read
12th June, 1712. 1 p. Enclosed,
441. i. Petition of William Codrington of Barbadoes, and the
Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign
Parts, to the Queen. King Charles II granted Burbuda
to Christopher and John Codrington, petitioner's uncle
and father, for fifty years. The latter built a castle
there at his great expence. Christopher and his son,
Christopher, died possessed of the whole island. The latter
bequeathed half of it to petitioner William, whom he made
executor, |th to two other persons, and the remainder
to the above Society. In March 1710 the Island was
through the treachery of John Birmingham surprized
by the French, and when they saw they could not
hold it against the force that the petitioner, William
Codrington, was bringing against them, they blew up
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 297
1712.
the Castle, and took away all the servants, negroes and
dead stock, and destroyed the quick stock to the loss of
petitioner William Codrington several thousand pounds.
Petitioner the said executor hath been at great expences
in hireing and manning of ships to reduce the said
Island, and hath rebuilt the castle thereon, and new
stockt the same, to which expences the Society are
contributory. Christopher Codrington the son gave
to petitioners the Society his two plantations in Bar-
badoes of considerable yearly value, for promoteing the
Christian religion in the Leeward Islands. And to
render his said benefaction still more usefull to the pious
purpose aforesaid, also gave them fV^ ns f Burbuda.
William Codrington hath agreed to give petitioners one
other sixteenth part thereof, if your Majesty shall please to
make some further grant of the Island unto petitioners.
The said Island is a nursery for horses and black cattle,
necessary for the neighbouring Caribee Islds., and is
moreover improveable by planting cotton and ginger,
etc., but the remainder of the term is too short to encour-
age petitioners to plant. Pray H.M. to grant to the
Society the reversion and inheritance of th part of the
Island, and of the other parts to William Codrington
and his heirs for ever, or for such other durable estates
respectively, and under such rents, acknowledgements,
and services respectively as shall seem meet. Signed,
Christopher Prissick, Robert Chester, Wm. del and,
Agents for Col. Codrington. Subscribed, H.M. refers
this petition to the Lord High Treasurer for his
opinion. Signed, Dartmouth, Whitehall, May 30,
1712. 5 pp.
441. ii. Copy of the will of General Christopher Codrington.
Bettys Hope, Antigua, Feb. 22, 1703. Endorsed,
Reed. 19th (sic), Read 12th June, 1712. 3 pp. [C.O.
152, 9. Nos. 120, 120 i., ii. ; and (duplicate of No. 1.)
121 ; and (without enclosure ii.) 153, 11. pp. 483 489.]
June 11. 442. The Earl of Dartmouth to Governor Lord A. Hamilton.
Whitehall. Recommends Mr. John Fooke to his protection. [C.O. 324, 32.
p. 154.]
June 12. 443. Mr. Docminique's characters of persons proposed for
the Council of New Jersey, (v. May 12). John Andersen and
Elisha Parker, both inhabitants in Prith Amboy very large tra-
ders, and old Planters, and men of the best estates upon the place.
Wm. Morris, a man of an extraordinary character as well as
master of a good estate. John Hamilton, Postmaster Genii, of
North America. Tho. Byerly, a gentleman of the best estate
in the country and in a publick post. John Reading, I have not
yett mett wth. anybody that personally knows him etc. I have
bin very dilligent in my enquiry, and doe find there is not one
of 'em inclinable to Presbytery, but all well affected both to
298 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Church and State. Endorsed, Reed. Read June 12, 1712. 1 p.
[C.O. 5, 970. No. 158 ; and 5, 995. p. 159.]
June 12. 444. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Hunter.
Whitehal. Acknowledge letters of Jan. 1st and March 1st. We have con-
sidered what you write, as also what the Council of New York
have represented to us, of the disputes that have happen'd
between them and the Assembly in relation to the amending of
mony bills : and are laying that whole matter before H.M. The
Assembly's pretence of an inherent right to dispose of the money
of the Free men of New York, is altogether groundless. They
only sit as an Assembly, and are a part of the Legislature (as is
also the Council) by virtue of a power in H.M. Commn. to you,
without which they cou'd not be elected to serve in Assembly,
and consequently their assuming a right no ways inherent in them,
is a violation of the constitution of the Govt. of that province,
and is derogatory to H.M. royal prerogative. If therefore upon
your acquainting them with what we now write upon this subject,
and what we writ you in our letter of Nov. 13th last, they still
persist, you may acquaint them that such measures will be taken
here, as may be effectual to assert H.M. undoubted prerogative
in that province, and to provide for the necessary support of that
Government. Your erecting a Court of Equity by advice and
consent of the Councill is pursuant to the powers granted you
by H.M. under the Great Seal of Great Brittain, and therefore
the resolve of the Assembly of Nov. 24, 1711, upon that matter is
very presumptuous and a diminution of H.M. royal prerogative,
for that H.M. has an undoubted right of appointing such and so
many Courts of Judicature in the Plantations, as she shal think
necessary for the distribution of Justice. The same may be
said upon their second resolve, relating to the establishing of
fees, as to the Bill which you say lies before the Councill, for
enacting the ordnance of 1693, into a law, we have no objection
at present why the same may not be done. The Assembly
adjourning themselves from Nov. 24, 1711 to the first Thursday
in Aprill following, after your having signify'd your intention
of doing it, and their naming Treasurers to collect the public
mony, when H.M. has appointed an officer for that purpose, are
other instances of their disrespect and undutifulness to H.M.
All which will be taken notice of and proper remedies appli'd, if
your next letters do not inform us, of their having chang'd their
behaviour.
We have under consideration what you and Col. Quary write
relating to the ship St. John Baptist. Mr. Dupre who has
acquainted us he goes by this conveyance will inform you of
what has past here, in relation to the Palatins : and that you may
know more perticularly what we have done in that matter, we
send you here inclosed copies of our reports thereupon. Upon
receipt of your letter wherein you transmitted to us an account
of the method us'd by Mr. Sacket in preparing the trees for tar,
we writ to Mr. Whitworth etc., who sent us the inclos'd account
(v. April 1st). This method being sornthing different from that of
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
299
1712.
June 13.
Whitehall.
June 13.
Whitehall.
June 13.
Whitehall.
June 14.
Boston.
Mr. Sacket, we thought fit to communicate the same to you.
We wish you had more fully explain'd what you write in relation
to Mr. Bridger, and particularly abt. the spoil committed in the
woods. We have before us the address from the merchants
relating to the furnishing H.M. with Naval Stores, as also Col.
Heathcot's proposal for building a gaily, and guarding the coast
of North America from the insults of the French privateers.
But as those matters belong more properly to the Navy Board,
and require to be well considered, we are not able at present to
give you any particular observations thereupon. We must
deferr to another opportunity to answer your letter relating to
your Government of New Jersey. In the meantime, we can
only assure you, we shall do all that in us lies to make that
Government easy to you, etc. [C.O. 5, 1123. pp. 21 26.]
445. Mr. Popple to Governor Dudley. Encloses duplicates
of Jan. 25 and Feb. 1st., and acknowledges letter of Nov. 13,
1711, " which their Lordships have now under consideration, and
will be able to send you answers thereto by the next conveyance."
[C.O. 5, 913. p. 377.]
446. Same to Mr. Addington. Acknowledges letter of Dec.
21st, etc. [C.O. 5, 913. p. 378.]
447. Mr. Popple to Lt. Governor Spotswood. Acknowledges
letters etc. of Sept. 5, Nov. 17 and Feb. 8. Their Lordships
have the same under consideration, and will return answers
thereto by the first conveyance that shall offer. [C.O. 5, 1363.
p. 407 ; and 5, 1335. No. 173.]
448. Address of the Governor, Council and Assembly of the
Massachusetts Bay to the Queen. Return thanks for the gift of
arms. (v. Feb. 13) "which favour we take as an expression of
your Majesty's gracious acceptance of our dutyfull obedience to
your Majesty's royal commands to assist the design of the ex-
pedition to Canada, which was instantly intended with all applica-
tion and alacrity in all things to our utmost ability beyond what
was required of us by your Majesty's royal instructions and
whereof at first we had no view could posibly be accomplished in
season. We hope our humble representations thereof already
laid before your Majesty have hapily prevented or wiped off any
impressions made by insinuations to the contrary that might
prejudice the Government in the present hapy constitution
thereof under your Majesty's most gracious establishment which
we humbly pray and hope for the continuance of, it being very
acceptable to your Majesty's good subjects, who yeild a ready and
dutifull obedience thereto and cheerfully consent to the levying
of heavy taxes towards the support thereof and for the defence
of the Province against the common enemy. Your Majesty's
good subjects of this Province for more than 20 years past (with
little cessation) have been grievously harrased and oppressed by
war and that very different from the wars in Europe whilest we
300 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
have to do with very numerous barbarous salvages within our
borders that decline to come to any fair open battle, but oblige
us to stand continually under armes thro' our long extended
frontier to prevent their impressions, continually infesting us,
and of late more than ever, with small partys spread thro' all the
parts lying sculking under the covert of horrid thickets, woods and
bushes where it is impracticable to pursue 'em, and besides the
losses both in men and cattle that we sustain from them, occasions
us a constant expence which with our other expences for guarding
of the sea-coast whereof the neighbouring Governments as well
as ourselves reape the benefit has immerced us in a very heavy
debt. We most humbly pray your Majesty will be graciously
pleased to order that the accompts for the advance to the last
year's Expedition upon encouragement of your Majesty's royal
assurance may speedily be directed to be paid. And also that
in consideration of our great charges and want of a stock of
powder for the supply of your Majesty's Castle and Forts and
other service within this Province, not being to be procured here,
your Majesty will be graciously pleased to order a supply to be
sent us accordingly. We pray Almighty God to preserve your
Majesty's sacred person to direct your Councils and prosper your
just armes that this calamitous war may happily soon determine
in a safe and honourable Peace. Signed, J. Dudley, Isa. Adding-
ton, Secry., John Burrill, Speaker. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 10. No. 7.]
June 17. 449. Anonymous reply to Mr. Henderson (June 2). Defends
Governor Hunter and Col. Lewis Morris against the malicious and
ungrounded accusations of the Missionary, and gives different
versions of the characters of the New Jersey Councillors. Set
out, N.Y. Docs. V. pp. 336338, q.v. [Endorsed, Reed. June
12, 1712. 8| pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 49.]
June 17. 450. Earl of Rochester to the Earl of Dartmouth. Prays
that William Brodrick may be appointed to the Council of
Jamaica in the room of Col. Valentine Mumby, who is represented
as a person that will returne thither no more. (v. April 5). 1 1 pp.
[C.O. 137, 51. No. 62.]
June 18. 451. Mr. Tilden to Mr. Popple. Prays to be allowed to see
papers transmitted by Governor Lowther and Skeen's petition,
(v. May 1st), etc. Signed, Geo. Tilden. Endorsed, Reed. 18th,
Read 19th June, 1712. Addressed. I p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 93 ;
and 29, 12. p. 436.]
June 18. 452. Capt. Vane to [? the Earl of Dartmouth.] Allen who is an
Annopolis inhabitant here, and as I have informed you knows of a silver
oya ' mine ; upon promise that I've made him (by consent of the Lt.
Governor) in case he would produce some of the ore ; and that it
proved on proof to be as pretended, that he should not be forced
to discouver the same, till H.M. had been informed thereof and a
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
301
1712.
recom pence allotted him : and that his son should have an employ
as he should be found capable of, when the said mine should be
wrought, about 10 days agoe, he parted from hence for the other
side of the bay of fundy, where the said mine [is] to fetch some of
the ore, and shall take care to send you some of it to be proved,
etc. Gouverneur Vetch arrived here ye 6th from boston, but
says ther's noe orders, yett from court conserning the fortifications
of this place : that the publicke bills are soe il paid, that nobody
att boston ; will advance any money on the same etc., that the
fortifications are like to loose the best season for working, and
the occation of making bricks etc. which we very much want ;
all the chimneys in the Garnison being ready to fall down, as
well as best part of the houses. This I humbly take the liberty
to informe you off least hereafter I might be blamed, for what is
not in my power to remedy, having reseved as yett no orders, etc.
Signed, G. Vane. Endorsed, Reed. Sept. 15. 8 pp. [C.O. 217,
31. No. 7.]
June 18. 453. H.M. Warrant impowering Lt. Governor Spotswood
St. James's, to take 150 per annum for rent for two years longer etc. as
recommended March 15 q.v. Countersigned, Oxford. Endorsed,
Reed. June 21, 1712. 2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 81 ; and 5,
1363. pp. 408410.]
June 23.
N. Yorke.
454. Governor Hunter to the Council of Trade and Plan-
tations. Since ye receipt of yr. Lordps'. letters of Oct. 26,
Nov. 13 and Feb. 1st, this present packett boat is ye first opor-
tunity which has offered by which I cold returne answers. There
has been noe revenue for support of Government settled in this
Province since ye expiration of ye last of May 18, 1709. But
your Lordps. will observe by ye Act past this present sessions,
that there is a summe issued for that purpose out of ye money in
their Treasurer's hands, which tho' barely the sallary due to me,
without any allowance for fireing and candle for ye garrisons, for
repaires of ye house and barracks, for my frequent journeys to
Albany and negociations with ye Indians, and presents to
them and expresses on all occations, I was under a necessity to
accept, the Act as your Lordps. may observe being conceiv'd in
such terms as does not cutt off my claims to ye remainder due,
etc. Your Lordps. have long since received the table of fees, etc.
I have issued out orders to ye severall counties and cities for an
account of ye number of their inhabitants and slaves, but have
never beene a.ble to obtain it compleate, the people being deterr'd
by a simple superstition and observation, that ye sickness followed
upon ye last numbering of ye people. However by ye next
opportunity I hope to send it you compleat haveing fain upon
new methods for procureing it. In ye mean time the following
scheme of ye old lists taken in 1703 compaired with ye new
which I have beene able to procure of ye respective countys
hereafter mentioned will afford your Lordps. a general view of ye
increase of ye numbers ;
302 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
1703. 1712. Increased.
New York 4436 5840 1404
King's County 1915 1925 10
Richmond County 503 1279 776
Orange County 268 439 171
West Chester 1946 2803 857
9068 12,286 3218
Queen's Co. 4392
Suffolk 3346
Albany City and Co. 2273
Ulster and Dutches 1669
Of these countys I have as yet noe lists, nor from ye Jerseys, but
hope to be able to send it by ye next. From Connecticut I have
soe imperfect an account, that I am ashamed [to send it but will
endeavour to get a more perfect one.]
In ye five countys whereof I have procured lists the numbers
were compos 'd as followeth :
1703. 1712. Increased.
Christians 7767 10511 2744
Slaves 1301 1775 474
3218
By this imperfect computation your Lordps. will be able to
make some guess of ye generall increase of ye people, and leave
it to your Lordps. consideration what ye consequences are like
to be, when upon such an increase, not only ye support of Govern-
ment but ye inclinations of ye people to support it at all decrease.
As to births and burialls, there has never beene any register kept
that I can heare of, neither is there any possibility of doeing of it,
untill such time as ye countyes are subdivided into parishes,
great numbers remaineing unchristened for want of ministers.
Refers to enclosures. As to ye wants and defects of this Province,
besides that of a revenue which your Lordps. have beene soe much
troubled with, the forts and barracks want thorough repaires,
one halfe of ye Governor's house ready to fall down. Wee want
tenn flaggs, the forts being now five in number. Refers to en-
closure for other stores wanting. I should be very glad the Assembly
would give me an occasion of retracting what I have formerly
wrote your Lordps. concerning their obstinacey, but their pro-
ceedings since that give me but too much cause to continue my
complaints against them, for tho' they have past the Bill I have
beforementioned in such a manner as both ye Councill and myselfe
cou'd agree to it, yet they have since sent us up another for
paying the officers of the Government in their former appro-
priating manner, which the Councill cold not agree to for the
reasons they sent to your Lordps., soe that nothing more can be
expected from them. I have not only expended my own money
for all the contingencies of ye Government ever since I have
beene here, but the daily complaints and cryes of ye officers who
have not received a shilling for their support since my comeing
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 303
1712.
renders my condition very miserable and would make it in-
supportable but for ye releife I hope for from home ; if I cold be
prevailed on to put my private interest in competition with
H.M.'s, I should have but little difficulty in getting my own
sallary, the Assembly both in and out of the House professing the
greatest willingness to make me easy (as their phraise is), but
unless I would give up H.M. prerogative of appointing her own
officers, and rewarding their services, divert ye channel! through
which the receipt of her money has ever run, and by these meanes
reserve nothing but the name of a Government, it is in vaine to
expect from these men any manner of support, which layes me
under a necessity of entreating your Lordps. to think of us with
that compassion which our present wants require, and to give me
your speedy directions how to behave myselfe under these dis-
tresses. The Act before mentioned and one other to encourage
the makeing of lintseed oyle are ye only ones that have come my
length this sessions, the last wants noe other remark then that
it's past to encourage the projection of that manufacture in this
place. I must now give your Lordps. an account of a bloody
conspiracey of some slaves of this place to distroy as many of the
inhabitants as they cold. It was put in execution in this manner,
when they had resolved to revenge themselves for some hard
usage they apprehended to have received from their masters (for
I can find noe other cause) they agreed to meet in the orchard of
one Mr. Crook neare the middle of the town, some provided with
firearms, some with swords and others with knives and hatchetts,
this was the sixth day of Aprill, the time of meeting was about
twelve or one of ye clock in the night. When about three and
twenty of them were got togeather, one Coffee a negroe slave to
one Vantilburgh set fire to an outhouse of his masters, and then
repairing to the place where the rest were, they all sallyed out
togeather with their arms and marcht to the fire, by this time the
noise of fire spreading through the town, the people began to
flock to it. Upon the approach of severall the slaves fired and
killed them, the noise of ye guns gave ye allarm and some escape-
ing their shott, soon publisht the cause of ye fire, which was ye
reason that not above nine Christians were killed, and about
five or six wounded. Upon the first notice which was very soon
after the mischeife was begun, I ordered a detachment from the
fort under a proper officer to march against them, but the slaves
made their retreat into ye woods by ye favoure of the night,
haveing ordered Gentries the next day in the most proper places
on the Island to prevent their escape, I caused the day following
the Militia of this town and of the county of West Chester to
drive ye Island, and by this meanes and strict searches in the
Town, wee found all that put the designe in execution. Six of
them haveing first laid violent hands upon themselves, the rest
were forthwith brought to their tryall before the Justices of this
place, who are authorized by Act of Assembly to hold a Court in
such cases. In that Court were 27 condemned, whereof 21 were
executed, one being a woman with child her execution is by that
meanes suspended. Some were burnt, others hanged, one broke
304 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
on ye wheele, and one hung alive in chaines in the town, soe
that there has beene the most exemplary punishment inflicted
that cold be possibly thought of and which only this Act of
Assembly cold justifye. Among these guilty persons severall
others were apprehended, and againe acquitted by the Court,
for want of sufficient evidence. Among those was one Mars a
negroe man slave to one Mr. Regnier, who was [? brought] to his
tryall and acquitted by the Jury. The Sheriffe the next day
moveing ye Court for the discharge of such as were or should be
soe acquitted by reason he had soe many in his custody that hee
apprehended they would attempt to make their escape. But
Mr. Bickley who then executed the office of the Attorney Generall
for Mr. Rayner opposed his motion, telling the Court that at that
time none but Mars being acquitted, the motion cold be only
intended in his favour against whom he should have something
further to object, and therefore prayed he might not be discharged.
Soe the Sheriffe did not obtaine his motion. Mars was then
indicted a second time, and againe acquitted, but not discharged,
and being a third time presented was transferred (the Court of
Justices not designeing to sitt againe) to ye Supream Court and
there try'd and convicted on the same evidence only as appeared
against him before on his two former tryalls. This prosecution
was carryed on to gratify some private pique of Mr. Bickley's
against Mr. Regnier, a gentleman of his own profession, which
appearing soe partiall and the evidence being represented to me
as very defective and being wholly acquitted of ever haveing
known anything of the conspiracey by the negroe witnesses who
were made use of in the tryalls of all ye criminalls before ye
Justices and without whose testimonies very few cold have beene
punished, I thought fitt to repreive him till H.M. pleasure be
known therein. At this Supream Court were likewise tryed one
Hosea belonging to Mr. Wenham, and one John belonging to
Mr. Vantilburgh, and convicted. These two are prisoners taken
in a Spanish prize this warr and brought into this port by a
privateer about 6 or 7 yeares agoe and by reason of their colour
which is swarthy they were said to be slaves and as such were
sold among many others of the same colour and country. These two
I have likewise repreived till H.M. pleasure be signifyed. Soone
after my arrivall in this Government, I received petitions from
severall of these Spanish Indians as they are called here, represent-
ing to me that they were free men subjects to ye King of Spaine
but sold here as slaves. I secretly pittyed their condition, but
haveing noe other evidence of what they asserted then their own
words, I had it not in my power to releive them. I am informed
that in the West Indies where their laws against their slaves are
most severe, that in case of a conspiracey in which many are
engaged a few only are executed for an example. In this case
twenty one are executed, and six haveing done that justice on
themselves, more have suffered than wee can find were active in
this bloody affaire, which are ye reasons for my repreiveing
these, and if your Lordps. think them of sufficient weight, I begg
you will procure H.M. pleasure to be signifyed to me for their
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 305
1712.
pardon, for they lye now in prison at their masters' charge. I
have likewise repreived one Tom a negroe belonging to Mr. Van
Dam, and Coffee a negroe belonging to one Mr. Walton. These
two I have repreived at the instance of the Justices of ye Court,
who were of opinion that the evidence against them was not
sufficient to convict them. As to ye Palatins, I doe assure your
Lordps. that their work comes fully up to our expectation, the
trees they are prepareing and which will receive the last barking
next Fall promise extreamly well, and Mr. Sackett tells me he
does not in the least doubt but that the experiment he is makeing
of some trees to fell at a yeares preparation will answer very well
and as soon as this barking which they are now about is over hee
will try it, of which I will inform your Lordps. by the first oppor-
tunity after it. As to that small quantity of tarr which I formerly
mentioned to your Lordps. I must begg leave againe to observe
to you that it was made from the knotts which the children
gathered togeather whilst their fathers were working on the
trees. This tarr may have ye burning quality, but is as good for
pitch as ye other. Your Lordps. want to be informed out of
what fond I provide the cask for ye tarr. I formerly told your
Lordps., that out of ye sixpences and fourpences a day for these
people's subsistance I hoped to pay all the contingent charges,
except such as are mentioned in a list sent by Mr. Du Pre, and
this of ye cask is one of those charges I shall pay out of the
subsistance. I have not had any complaints of late of the Pala-
tines, they work chearfully and seemed resolved to goe through
what they are imployed about being greatly incouraged by ye
proposall of receiveing one halfe of ye profitts of the tan- to their
own use, whilst the other halfe goes towards ye payment of the
charge H.M. is put to about them. I am toe much indisposed
now to goe to them, but as soon as I am able I designe to goe up
and visit their works, and Mr. Sackett being with them he will
take care that noe part of this barking season be misspent. I
must againe intreat your Lordps. to reflect on Mr. Bridgier's
behaviour, his dissobedience of H.M. possitive commands, his
disserting this service at a time when he knew not that I cold
find any who understood this work to direct the people in the
method of doeing it and to superintend them whilst they were
about it, by which he has as much as in him lay betrayed ye
service, and subjected H.M. to ye loss of soe much money as she
had expended on them. Your Lordps. will pardon me I hope for
reminding you of this, but I cannot think of this conduct of his
without being of opinion that he justly deserves H.M. highest
displeasure and your Lordps.' discountenance. The affaires of
the Jerseys at present dont require the giveing your Lordps. the
trouble of a separate letter. It being absolutely needless to meet
ye Assembly soe long as ye Council! is soe constituted, for they
have avowedly opposed the Government in most things and by
their influence obstructed the payment of a great part of the
taxes, soe that I waite with great impatience for ye remedy your
Lordps. have made me hope for. In the meane time you will
receive an account of the Courts and offices there. I must begg
Wt, -Jiinsii, C'.P. 20.
306 COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
your Lordps.' patience till ye next opportunity for the numbers
of that people and other matters relateing to that province. My
present indisposition has beene the occasion of the confusion of
this letter, which I hope your Lordps. will pardon, and I beg
leave further to inform your Lordps. that the method I have
taken to provide cask is this. There are ten palatin coopers
whom I have appointed masters for that work, each of them has a
number to attend him for cutting of staves and hoop sticks.
I agree with the masters for halfe a crown a barrell, one halfe
to be paid them in money, the other halfe to be stated to their
account as part payment of the debt they owe H.M., by this
meanes I hope to be able to find cask at a reasonable rate. If in
this country where dayly labour is never computed at less than
halfe a crown a day, many private persons have found their
account by makeing bad tarr of the knotts, what may wee not
expect from the labour of those people, which amounts but to the
halfe of that dayly expence, making an allowance of two thirds
for children and such as can't work, and makeing of good mer-
catable tarr, and imploy'd in a manner that each man's labour
must produce a great deale more than by the methods formerly
known and practic'd here. The warr betwixt the people of
North Carolina and ye Tuscorora Indians is like to imbroil us all.
The Five Nations by the instigation of the French threaten to
joyn with them, tho' very lately they sent me by my own mes-
sengers to them their offers to interpose amicably in that matter.
I have sent some men of interest with them to disswade them from
this fatall designe with presents and premisses, haveing noe other
way left, our Assembly haveing fettered me soe that I can talk
to them in noe other language. They are but a handfull and
puff'd up with ye court has been made to them. In the meantime
nothing shall be wanting on my part to prevent this mischeife
or bring them to reason and their duty. Signed, Ro. Hunter.
Endorsed, Reed. July 30, Read Aug. 6, 1712. 14 pp. Enclosed,
454. i. List of the Courts of Law within the Province of New
York, and of the officers belonging thereto. Endorsed,
Reed. July 30, 1712. 2pp.
454. ii. Account of the stores of war in the Forts of New York,
June 18, 1712. Signed, Ro. Hunter. Endorsed as
preceding. 2 pp.
454. iii. Duplicate of preceding.
454. iv. Account of stores wanting for the garrison at New
York, June 23, 1712. Signed and endorsed as preceding.
I p.
454. v. Duplicate of preceding. [C .O. 5, 1050. Nos. 51,
51 i.-v. ; and (without enclosures] 5, 1123. pp. 30 48.]
June 23. 455. Memorandum of No. 454, enclosing,
455. i. State of the Courts of Judicature in New Jersey.
June 21, 1712. Endorsed, Reed. July 30, Read Aug.
6, 1712. 2pp. [C.O. 5, 970. Nos. 160, 160 i.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES. 307
1712.
June 23. 456. Governor Hunter to the Earl of Dartmouth. I beg
New York, your Losp. will beg H.M. pardon for these condemn'd persons
mention 'd in enclosed letter. There was no other method left to
stop the Jury of that prosecution which had like to have proceeded
to the condemning of guilty and innocent, it grew up to a party
quarrel and the slaves far'd just as the people stood affected to
their masters, more have been executed, in a cruel manner too,
then were concern'd in the fact, and I'm afraid some who were no
way privy to the conspiracy. Prays for protection and assist-
ance, etc. P. 8. The minute of the Treasury your Lorsp. was
pleased to transmitt has quieted the minds of the people much
with relation to ye bills for the Expedition, some of which had been
return'd upon me protested. Signed, Ro. Hunter. Holograph'.
2 pp. Enclosed,
456. i. Copy of No. 454. [C.O. 5, 1091. Nos. 76, 76 i. ; and
(du plicate) 77, 77 i.]
June 24. 457. Lt. Gov.- Vetch to the Earl of Dartmouth. I have not
Annapolis ag yett been favoured with H.M. particular commands relating
oya to the pay and state of this garison, etc. The garison is now
perfectly healthy, and since the arrivall of Coll. Livingston's
company of Indians, who are verry well fortified in the most
proper place for our defence about a quarter of a mile from the
grand Fort, which they themselves effectuate, with a vast deall
of labour and industry, this spring, and verry small expense to
H.M., wee are pretty secure notwithstanding some partys of
Indians sent out by the Governour of Canada, to catch some
prisoners for intelligence who have succeeded too well upon the
frontiers of New England this spring, having killed above a
dozen English and taken as many prisoners there, but as our
company of Indians who are worth four times their number of
Brittish troops have struck such a terrour into them, so I do doubt
not but in a litle time they will either wholly banish our trouble-
some Indians, or oblidge them to submitt themselves to H.M,
Government, which would soon be effectuated were it not for the
number of Popish priests that remain missionarys amongst them :
what creates me a great deall of uneasiness is the multitude of
officers of different Cors, whose jarrs about command and rank
create me ane endles trouble, which the setlement of the garison
upon a regular footing would wholly prevent : in which I pray your
Lordship's favour, the victualling and contingent charges of the
garison and reparations of the Fortifications absolutly necessary
amounting to a considerable summ of money by reason of the
bad posture wee found them in and the troubles wee meet withall
since, and would I give way to our present Engineer's projections,
the verry artickle of the fortifications would ammount to a verry
great summ : but as I have and allways shall as much as possible
avoid putting H.M. to any expense but what is absolutely necess-
ary for the preservation of the garison untill H.M. shall be pleased
to give particular orders with relation to the same, so I must
intreat your Lordship's favour with H.M. and my Lord Treasurer
that what bills are drawn for the contingent expenses may be
308
COLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
punctually payed : for it is with the last difficulty that I cann
procure any credit to H.M. att Boston, by reason of the delay of
the former bills : the Agent being such a vast summ of money in
advance already, and so many of his bills being returned pro-
tested : by which he will be a verry great sufferer, if he have no
consideration allowed him for the same, which I doubt not
through your Lordship's favour he will obtain. I must likewise
recomend to your Lordship's favour and care, the five or six
subalterns of the New England troops who stayed here to in-
courage their men to doe so, and now depend upon H.M. taking
care of them with the other secound officers. The expense will
be so small in comparrison of the service it may be of, that I hope
H.M. may be pleased to continue to take care of them still not-
withstanding the troops they belonged to being dismissed. The
want of H.M. orders and Instructions with regard to the patenting
out the lands not possessed by any of the French verry much
obstructs the setlement and peopling of the country : in which
I humbly begg your Lordship would be pleased to signify to me
H.M. commands. Brigadier Nicholson cann best of any person
att home inform your Lordship and the Ministry what methods
are properest to be taken both with regard to the civill and
military establishment of this country because of his thorrow
knowledge of the most part of all this Brittish Continent. Wee
are still continueing to face the whole rampart round with timber
like small masts, a good part of which is finished : and indeed it
is so absolutely necessary that wherever that is not done the
rampart hath wholly tumbled down by reason of the violent
frosts and sudden thaws this last winter and spring : which wee
are repairing as fast as wee cann, etc, P. 8. June 27. Since the
above wee have advice that the Indians are gathering togither
in a body being joyned by some French from Canada in order to
give us all the disturbance they cann, which is only to confine
us to salt provisions. Our Indian company is now of verry great
use to us and without them even in peace it will be hard for this
garison to subsist, the Indians of thiss country being never to
be trusted. Signed, Sam. Vetch. 1$ pp. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 108.]
June 24. 458. Mr. Popple to Lt. Governor Spotswood.
Whitehall. Warrant for house-rent (?'. June 18). [C.O. 5, 1363.
and 5, 1335. No. 174.]
Encloses
p. 411 ;
June 25. 459. The Earl of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Plan-
Whitehall, tations. Mr. Brodrick the present Attorney General at Jamaica
and Mr. Hugh Totterdell, a gentleman likewise of great consider-
ation there, being both recommended to H.M. as persons very fit
to be of the Council in that Island, I am to desire you will let me
know whether you have any objection against their being pre-
ferred to that trust, that I may lay the same before H.M. Signed,
Dartmouth. Endorsed, Reed. July 4th, Read Aug. 27th. 1712.
1 p. [C.O. 137, 9. Xo. 71 ; and 138, 13. p. 403.]
AMERICA AND WEST INDIES.
309
1712.
June 25. 460. Petty expenses of the Board of Trade, March 25 June
25, 1711. 38. 3. 5. Stationer's Bill, (includes Capt. Cooke's
Voyage to the South Sea 2 volls. qtt. 12/-) 26. 4. 0. Postage,
84. 9. 8. 5 pp. [C.O. 388, 76. Nos. 138, 140, 142.]
[June 25.] 461. Petition of Elizabeth Renoult, widow, to the Queen.
Petitioner's husband John Battist Renoult possessed 5000 acres
in the French part of St. Kitts and a considerable estate in slaves
etc. Col. Codrington having conquered the French part of the
Island, 1690. granted him 336 acres of land and part of his slaves
and stock, in consideration he was of the Protestant religion
and well affected to the English. He swore allegiance to the
English Crown. By the peace of Ryswick the French part was
surrendered to the French who offered to restore to petitioner
what had been her husband's, if she would renounce the Protestant
religion, which she refuseing to doe, she was obliged to abandon
her plentiful estate and retire into Gt. Britain witli 4 children,
where she is reduced to a very miserable and destitute condition.
Prays for Letters Patent for that part of her estate formerly
granted to her husband by Col. Codrington. Overleaf,
461. i. This petition is referred to the Council of Trade and
Plantations for their opinion. Signed, Dartmouth.
The whole endorsed, Reed. July 1st, 1712, Read March
23rd, 17}|. \l pp. Enclosed,
461. ii. Copy of John Baptiste Renoult's bond for 2333 18.
Jan. 1, 1690. Signed, John Bapt. Renoult.
461. iii. Copy of Governor Codrington's grant of the above
property to John Baptiste Renoult. Signed, Chr.
Codrington. 1 pp. [C.O. 152, 10. Nos. 11, 11
i.-iii. ; and (without enclosures) 153, 12. p. 114.]
June 27. 462. Deposition of John Norwood, Collector of Customs
[? at Antigua], On June 14, 1710, Lt. Governor Walter Hamilton
threatened and abused deponent for refusing to send him an
accompt of the loading of the Union frigate. Signed, Jno.
Norwood, f p. [(7.0.152,42. No. SI.]
[June 27.] 463. Copy of grant of the Island of Burbuda by King Charles
II to Christopher and John Codrington. Countersigned, (Sir)
William Stapleton. Endorsed, Reed. Read June 27, 1712. 3 pp.
[C.O. 152, 9. Nos. 122, 123 ; and 153, 11. pp. 490497.]
June 28.
London.
464. Planters and merchants in, and traders to Jamaica to
the Council of Trade and Plantations. Pray that the Act trans-
mitted last October for the further quieting possessions and prevent-
ing vexatious suits may be approved. Most of the inhabitants
have lost some of their originall patents, and two books of the
Records of the Island, Nos. 3 and 4, for 1671 and 1672 are missing,
(occasioned by the misfortune of the fire at Port Royall, the
earthquake, and French invasions) so consequently all the
assignments of those patents which formerly were indorsed upon
the back of the patent and recorded afterwards in the Secretarye's
3iO G'OLONIAL PAPERS.
1712.
Office, etc. Signed. John Ayscough, Ednid. Edlyne, Whitgift
Aylmer, Joseph Hodges, Wm. Parrott, Aritho. Chamberlain,
Claudius Archbould, Edward Searle, Samuel Jones, Val. Munbee,
Geo. Eves, Jno. Freeman, Richd. Lloyd, Charles Kent, Rich.
Thompson, Rd. Harris, Francis Melmoth, Edwd. James, Elias
Pearse. Endorsed, Reed. 12th Aug., Read Dec. llth, 1712. I p.
[C.O. 137, 9. No. 74 ; and I. 'is. i:{. pp. 409411.]
GENERAL INDEX.
313
GENEBAL INDKX,
Abbott, Richard, Brigadier General
of the Leeward Islands, 194.
, . . . . , document signed by,
173.
Accadia. See, Nova Scotia.
Accounts, Public, Commissioners of,
258.
Act of Parliament, for the solemn
affirmation of Quakers, etc,, 14
i., 203.
, for approbation of Governors,
38 i.
, concerning bankrupts, p. 7.
, for ascertaining the rates of
foreign coins, enforcement of,
directed, 394, 400.
, for encouraging exportation of
Naval Stores, 193, i.
,for the encouragement of trade
to America, 145, 187.
, . . . . , duties laid on prize
goods by, 124, 124 i., 345.
, . . . . , . . . . , Agents for, 124
i.
, . . . . , . . . . , bonds for, 124
ii.
. , . . . . , . . . . , . . . . , remission
of, requested, 124, 124 i.
., ...., publication of, 132,
375.
. , to encourage the trade to New-
foundland, 149 iv., 234.
. , . . . . , penalties not stated by,
10, 11.
., against foreign treason, 251.
. , laying duties on tobacco, 118,
i., 119.
. , for licensing hackney coaches,
clause in, for grant in aid to
Nevis and St. Kitts, 102, 104,
107, 112, 137, 368 i., 392.
. , . . . . , interpretation of re-
settlement in, required, 179,
179 i., 201, 368 i.
. , . . . . , clause proposed
for, 397 i.
Act of Parliament cont.
, for preservation of white ]tnn-
trees, 163, 167, 292.
, . . . . , publication of, 133-
135, 142, 375.
for preventing frauds, 174.
, printed copies of, for the
Plantations, 1.
, restricting pressing, 46, 61 i.,
96.
, for settling Revenue of New
York, draught of, proposed,
389.
, . . . . , introduced, 169.
, . . . ., re-introduction pro-
posed, 169, 170.
, . . . . , threat of, 444.
Acts of Trade and Navigation, 145,
375, 378.
, security for observance of,
13.
Acts, transmission of, demanded,
400 ; and see under the
several Colonies.
Addington, Isaac, Deputy Auditor
General, N.E., 375.
, . . . . , Secretary, Mass. Bay,
61 i.
, document signed by,
3, 123, 448.
, . . . . , letter from, 44, 135,
230.
, , letter to, 446.
, salary of, 229.
Addison, Robert, part owner of Ox-
ford ship, case of, 318 m.,
395 i ; and see under Oxford.
, . . . . , document signed by,
378 xvn.
, . . . . , petition of, 378 xxiv.,
XXXVI., XXXVII., XL.
, . . . . , petition relating to,
378 xxvi., xxvn.
., , reply by, 378 xxvm.,
XXXII., XXXIV.
Admiral, The Lord High, 34.
, . . . . , report by, 35 I.
Admiralty, The, 42, 63 ; and see
Burchett, Josiah ; Plantations,
The, Vice - Admiralty Com-
missions in.
, , Lords Commissioners
183, 305.
, letter from, 251.
of,
314
GENERAL INDEX.
Admiralty , The, Lords Commissioners
of cont.
, , letter to, 247.
, . . . . , order by, 85, 251.
, , petition to, 241, 242.
, Courts. See Plantations,
V ice -Admiralty.
, Secretary of. See Burcliett,
Josiah.
Adventure, H.M.S., 164, 229.
Adventure, transport, 61 i.
Africa, trade to, Address from
Jamaica, laid before House of
Commons, 357, 357 i. ; and
see Traders, separate, to, and
following.
African Company, The Royal, Agents
of, Barbados, claim by, 145,
145 i.
, . . . . , monopoly of, objection
to, in Jamaica. 345.
Albany (N.Y.), 46 i., 95, 193 j. ; and
see Schuyler, Peter.
, Canada Expedition, Council
of War at, Minutes of, 97 vi.
, Indians for, 95, 96.
, . . . . , rendezvous at, 46, 4(5 1.,
61. 93, 95, 96, 251 ; and see
Canada Expedition.
, defence of, Act for, 2f> I .
Albany Fort (Chechewan), 219 i.
, garrison, diversion by, 46.
, . . . . , subsistence of, 210.
, . . . . , Act for providing, 25 1
i.
, . . . . , soldiers drawn from,
41.
, Indians at, 46, 93, 95, 96.
, . . . . , Act for preventing sale
of rum to, 251.
, . . . . , conference of, at, 95,
95 ii., 96.
, . . . . , . . . . , occasion of, 96.
, . . . . , presents to, 116.
, ...... trade with, 401.
, stores of war at, disposal of,
169.
, trade with French Indians,
401.
Albuquerque, Duke of, Viceroy of
New Spain, 267.
Alexander, Francis, Col., regiment
of. See Leeward Islands, regi-
ment in.
Henry, Earl of Stirling,
arrears due to, 419.
, . . . . , petition for, 348 i.
, deed of assignment to,
348 ii.
, Stephen, 378 xxxi.
Allen, Major, 61 i.
, mine discovered by,
N.S., 452.
Almsbury, 375.
Amblemont, Marquis d', 194.
Ambuscade, privateer, capture by,
149 v.
Anderson, John, recommendation of,
for Council. N.J., 413.
, . . . . , qualifications of, 443.
Andrews, , Rev., missionary to the
Five Nations, 359, 361.
Anglesea, H.M.S., 267, 420.
, . . . . , prize of, 145, 145 I.
Anguilla. See Virgin Islands.
Annapolis Royal, 41, 46 ; and see
Nova Scotia.
Anndegariax. See Nicholson, Fran-
cis.
ANNE, QUEEN, appointment of
Governors by, in Proprietary
Governments, 38 I.
, arms and portrait of, for
Five Nations, 359, 361.
, birthday of, celebrated, 355.
, changes of Councillors to be
approved by, 362.
, chapel furniture for Indians
forwarded by, 359, 361.
, in Council, appeals to, 145.
, orders, instructions, refer-
ences, warirnts by, concern-
ing :
Antigua, 225, 297, 342, 347,
350, 396, 412, 416, 416
I-IIL, 422 i.
Barbados, 131, 146, 196,
224, 228, 256, 269, 283,
307, 341, 343, 376, 377,
395, 431.
Bermuda, 9, 52, 212.
Canada Expedition, 87, 87
i., 95, 96, 164.
Carolina, 57, 90, 120.
Coins in the Plantations,
228
Council of Trade, 217.
German Protestant Refu-
gees, 95, 166, 210, 290,
335.
Jamaica, 56, 68, 100, 344,
381.
letters of denization, 88.
Leeward Islands, 86, 105,
106, 138, 225, 226, 260,
278, 297, 332, 342, 347,
350, 368, 384, 396, 412,
416, 416 i-m., 422 i., 437
m.
Maryland, 38 i., 66 n., 134,
207, 275.
Naval Stores, 95.
Nevis, 368.
New Hampshire, 284, 285,
312.
New Jersey, 58.
New York, 12, 59, 88, 95,
96, 127, 210, 290, 389.
Nova Scotia, 192.
Pennsylvania, 221.
<;KNKKAL
315
Amu 1 , Queen cont. Antigua cunt.
orders, instructions, references, , Acts of, 194.
warrants by, concerning ,...., copying of, 63 i.
cont. , . . , . , sent home, 54.
St. Kitts, 105, 106, 138, 368, , Assembly of, 63, 81 T., 302.
384, 437 in. , , address by, 302 v., 422
Virgin Islands, 86. n.
Virginia, 90, 91, 199 i., 220, , , description of, 355.
222, 223, 227. 233, 259, , , despatch of news of
275, 301, 408, 453. Parke's death, 15 i.
, addresses, appeals, petitions, , . . . . , Journal of, 63
representations to, concern- , . . . . , message to, 355.
ing : ,...., refuse to quarter
Antigua 355. soldiers, 355.
Barbados, 113, 218, 262 i., , ...., ringleaders in Parke's
282, 319 ni-v., vni., 321, murder, 36, 305.
3915 r., 395 i., 431. , . . . ., . . . ., re-elected to,
Barbuda, 441 i. 305.
Bermuda, 334. , Association, The, 302.
Canada Expedition, 40, 45 , attack upon, threatened, 28,
x., 47, 48, 61 i., 93 i., 30, 36, 39, 67, 67 J., 81, 81
123, 147, 229, 250, 252, i., n., 305.
440, 448, i>. 44. ,, prevented By Newcastle ,
Carolina, 13. 30, 39, 43.
convoys, 433 i. , Betty's Hope, 441 it.
Hudson Bay, 219 i. , Clem the Butcher, (Lanier),
Indians, the Five Nations, 350.
359, 361. , . . . ., blackmail of, alleged,
Jamaica, 22, 31, 100, 100 i., 355.
124, 124 j., 125 i., n., 265, , . . . ., murderer of Governor
299, 329, 344 i., 357 i. Parke, 355.
Leeward Islands, 69, 195, , coins, currency, exported to,
201, 302 i., 302 v., 313. from Barbados," 228.
324, 355, 356 i., 365 i., , Cook's Wharf, 81 u. 
