HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
TWELFTH REPORT, APPENDIX, PART III.
THE
MANUSCRIPTS
OF THE
EARL COWPER, KG.,
PRESERVED AT
MELBOURNE HALL, DERBYSHIRE.
VOL. III.
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/ 3
INTRODUCTION.
Secretary" Sir John Coke (whose papers are contained in
Volume I. and the first part of Volume II.) left surviving him
at his death in 1644 two sons. Of these the, elder, born in 1608
and admitted of Trinity College, Cambridge in 1623, became
Sir John Coke, knight, in July 1633, and a Justice of the Peace
and Deputy Lieutenant for Derbyshire in 1636. He was re-
turned a member for the County of Derby in November 1640
(the Long Parliament). The Commons Journals record that on
6th June 1643 he was one of seven members " who desired
further time to consider of the Covenant before they enter into
it," and that on the 8th " Sir John Coke took the new Oath
and Protestation, and entered into the new Covenant." In
September 1643 he subscribed the Solemn League and Covenant.
In January 1646-7 Sir John Coke was appointed one of the
nine Commissioners to receive the King at the Scottish head-
quarters at Newcastle-on-Tync, and to have charge of him at
Holdenby. In 1618 Sir John Coke left England for France
and died in 1650. He left no issue.
Thomas Coke, the younger son of the Secretary, was born in
1614, and was admitted of Trinity College, Cambridge, and
became a barrister of Gray's Inn. He was returned for the.
Borough of Leicester to the Parliament of April May 1640,
and again to that of November 1640 (the Long Parliament). In
the early days of the latter Parliament he was appointed a
member of the Committees of Inquiry after Popish Recusants,
respecting the jurisdiction of the High Commission, the papers
seized from Sir Edward Coke, the petition of Dr. Bastwick,
the Customs and Impositions since 1624, and other Committees.
It appears in the Commons Journals that on 1st December 1642
Thomas Coke was sent for as a delinquent ; on loth February
1642-3 the business concerning him was referred to the Com-
mittee for absent members; on 28th September 1643 he was
ordered to attend the Committee for sequestering absent
U 58973. Wt. 1377. a 2
IV
members' estates : and on 2Gth January 1G43-4 he was voted
" incapable of sitting." On 9th August 1G48 an ordinance was
passed " for pardoning the delinquency of Thomas Coke of
Graeis Inn Esquire, a member of this House," and it was
resolved that the House accept of the fine of 500/. for his
delinquency.
It appears in the proceedings of the Council of State that in
May 1050 Thomas Coke was a prisoner in Newgate; on 14-th
June he was ordered to leave town and be of good behaviour :
on 12th August he had liberty to come to town for one montli
to bury his brother, and prosecute his composition. In
September 1650, upon his petition and discovery of the
property he had acquired by his brother's death, his fine was
lixcd at 2,200/. (Royalist Composition Papers, Second Series,
Vol. 46, ]). 777.)
On 18th March 1650-1 the Council of State ordered Thomas
Coke to be committed close prisoner to the Tower upou
suspicion of treason ; and the same day they made a Report to
Parliament that he had made his escape, that they had taken
order for the present pursuit of him, and that they conceived
him to be a very dangerous person and one principally trusted
and employed by the enemies of the Commonwealth. Thereupon
on 20th March 1G50-1 an Act was passed declaring Thomas Coke
a traitor, unless he come in and render himself in custody in
order to his trial within four days, with 500/. recompense to the
person who shall bring him in. Officers at the ports were to
search all ships for Thomas Coke ; and the Sheriffs were ordered
to proclaim the Act forthwith. On 22nd March the Council of
State ordered him to be apprehended in Staple Inn, and
delivered to the Lieutenant of the Tower to be kept close
prisoner. On 24th December 1651 they reported to the House
that Thomas Coke, committed prisoner to the Tower last March,
and all his estate sequestered, has had his subsistence there from his
sisters, and from the credit of his keeper ; and requested that,
hs his sisters 4jp,nnot bear that charge, or discharge his debt to
his keeper, he may have allowance out of his estate for his past
charges and his future subsistence.
When and how Thomas Coke acquired his liberty does not
appear ; it was perhaps a consequence of the subversion of the
Long Parliament, and the Council of State in April 1G53. He
was buried at Melbourne on 23rd August 1056.
His only surviving son, John Coke, born in 1653, was brought
up by his guardian Sir Francis Burdett at Foremark, under
private tuition, and was for a time at the University of Oxford.
In 1684 he was appointed a Gentleman Usher of the Privy
Chamber to the Queen. He was returned for the Borough of
Derby to the Parliaments of May 1685 and of January 1688-9.
While a member of the former Parliament, when, in the month
of November 1685, the House of Commons had under considera-
tion the reply of King James II. to their Address against the
employment of officers disqualified by the Act respecting Popish
Recusants, John Coke, for his bold comment on that reply, was
by a vote of the House committed prisoner to the Tower.
Under direction by the Earl of Devonshire, John Coke, with
the rank of Captain, in December 1688 conducted a troop of
horse, raised in the neighbourhood of Derby and Nottingham,
through Leicester and Northampton to Oxford, to support the
revolutionary movement. It returned without having engaged
in any action, and was paid by means of hearth and excise
monies, levied under the authority of the Earl of Devonshire.
This troop was afterwards incorporated in a regiment, of which
Lord Cavendish had the command, and John Coke was
Lieutenant-Colonel, a post which he shortly resigned ; and having
gone abroad, probably to recruit his health, he died at Geneva
in 1690, leaving two sons and three daughters surviving him.
The elder son, Thomas Coke, was born in 1674. In 1688-9
he resided for some months in the family of a French Protestant
minister at Rotterdam. He w r as afterwards at New College.
Oxford, and on leaving the University in 1696, he visited the
Low Countries, and stayed at the Loo in Guelderland with a
friend in the household of King William III.
In the Parliaments of August 169S, December 1701, August
1702, June 1705, and July 1708, Thomas Coke was returned
for the County of Derby, and in those of November 1710 and
November 1713 for the Borough of Grampound. In the Parlia
ment of August 1702 he was chosen one of the Committee for
examining the Public Accounts ; and in 1704 he became one of
the Tellers of the Exchequer. At the end of 1706 Thomas Coke
VI
became a Privy Councillor, and was appointed Vice-Chamberlain
of the Household, an office which he held until his death on
17th May 1727.
In 1704, having under an Act of Parliament converted into
fee simple his interest in the Rectory house and estate of
Melbourne in Derbyshire, previously held by his ancestors from
1G28 as lessees of the Bishops of Carlisle, he commenced the
formation of the well-known gardens of Melbourne Hall, which
still remain a monument of his taste and judgment.
Vice-Chamberlain Coke married first in June 1698 the Lady
Mary Stanhope (elder daughter of Philip 2nd Earl of Chester-
field) who died in January 1703-4, leaving two daughters ;
and, secondly, in October 1709, Mary, daughter of William
Hale esquire of Kings Walden, Herts, a Maid of Honour
to Queen Anne, who died in January 1723-4, leaving one son,
George Lewis Coke, and one daughter, Charlotte Coke. The
latter, on the death of her brother unmarried in 1750, succeeded
to his Melbourne and other estates. Charlotte Coke had
married in 1740 Matthew Lamb, who was created a Baronet in
1755. Their son, Sir Peniston Lamb, became Baron and Viscount
Melbourne in the Peerage of Ireland, and afterwards in 1815
Viscount Melbourne in the Peerage of the United Kingdom.
He was succeeded by his sons William 2nd Viscount Melbourne
(the Prime Minister), and Frederick 3rd and last Viscount
Melbourne. At the death of the latter the Melbourne estate
passed to his only sister, Emily, married first to the 5th Earl
Cowper, and secondly to the last Viscount Palmerston (the
Prime Minister), and at her Ladyship's death, in 1869, it passed
to her grandson, the 7th Earl Cowper, with whose permission the
present publication of Papers preserved at Melbourne Hall has
been made.
The repository of these Papers is an ancient hexagonal stone
building, formerly the " Dove house " of the Rectors of Mel-
bourne (the Bishops of Carlisle) which was skilfully converted
into a " Muniment Room " in 1708 by Vice-Chamberlain Coke.
THE MANUSCRIPTS OF THE COKE FAMILY, OF MEL-
BOURNE, CO. DERBY, BELONGING TO THE EARL
COWPER, K.G., PRESERVED AT MELBOURNE HALL.
Vol. III. Cokb mss.
(1701-2), March 11. (King's Newton). Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament, at Westminster, London.
I told John Harpur I was forced to promise as many liveries more
for the next Assize. This may be thought as extravagant as the last
disposal : and indeed the taking that with a grumble by Sir John
[Harpur] was sufficient to damp any more meddling for a friend. But
those common burgesses told me they had rather have a livery than
20/., which made me propose this again : besides 'tis gratifying them
with what is most talked of: and 'tis what may be done safe in Sir
John's name, without reflection by a Committee. Therefore please to
excuse me to him ; though it need not be so chargeable as the present.
I could heartily wish it could be done without it. If in Sir John's
name forty paupers had each a 20*. grey coat, and quickly, it would do
very well. I should be glad if the subscription for the [Common] Hall
went on : I sent you mine long since. If not the grey coats, the High
Sheriff must give money to each parish for the poor, which is what
every Sheriff does at Derby. Your cousin Sir John Hartopp gave 50/.
at an Assize at Leicester. I wish England prosperity, and your Flying
Squadron the continued confusion the present sad occasion has brought
them to. Walter Burdett, Colonel Guillam, Mr. William Sale, Old
Bower, are just drinking " Curzon and Coke," " Stanhope and Harpur"
at Ticknall. We drank the Queen's health. The Duke of Devonshire
I hear sent an express to Mr. Gray, who set out Saturday last at 12 at
night. It may be the other tradesmen will vote in expectation, viz.,
mercers and tailors, if an item be given them by John Harpur's agents
at Derby. Perhaps you may enact to sit after the three years, as the
Queen pleases.
(1701-2), March 18. London. Earl of Chesterfield to Lady Mary
Coke.
Since I writ to you last, dear daughter, (my gout being gone) the
first time I went abroad I went with the impudence of an old courtier
to pay my duty to Her Majesty ; and, without anybody to introduce me,
sent in my name, and was soon admitted into Her Majesty's closet,
where there was nobody but Prince George. And after the having been
received very graciously, and stayed a quarter of an hour, I took my
leave, telling Her Majesty that I did not come upon the account of any
business, but only to pay my duty, and therefore I would not detain Her
Majesty any longer. My opinion is that, if Her Majesty would have no
favourites, but choose a wise Council, and rely upon a Parliament, she
might have so happy a reign as to eclipse that of Queen Elizabeth :
but the event of all things depends on fate, or rather Providence. . .
U 8973. k
2 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. I do not yet hear when the funeral of the late King will he, nor whether
it will he public or private : nor when the coronation Avill be, which
most people think will be put off till the next .Session of Parliament :
but others say that all these things will be fixed to-morrow at Council.
. . . I hear that you are to be this summer at Wing, and I do not
doubt but that by the next winter you will be fixed in town. ... I
could wish that my daughter Wotton were here at the coronation, for
then she would see the glory of England, and now all the town is in
mourning, and there are no plays, as being all forbid. I do return you
many thanks for all your kindness and good advice to Wotton, but one
cannot make a velvet purse of a sow's ear (as the proverb says) : and
all your good advice to him, as well as mine, is but labour in vain.
I have sent by the last post a very angry letter to Mr. Wilkins, because
he assured me before I set him a work that the whole charge would be
but 400/., or at most 450/., and he has received that sum already, and
the work is not nigh done. Mr. Coke came just now to me, and told
me that he has sent for you to town, because the House of Commons
have made him one of the six commissioners for stating the accounts of
the nation. This employment will be extremely laborious, continues
but for one year, and the salary is but 500/. a year, which is no great
matter for so continual an attendance : but I hope this will be an
introduction to something that will be much better.
1701-2, March 21. John Fisher to Thomas Coke, M.l\, at his
house in St. James's Place, London.
I hoped you would have been in Derbyshire before the assize, or
have sent me some orders about defraying the charge of the last elec-
tion. Mr. Garratt showed me his order from Mr. Cnrzon, which was
to meet me and discharge everything immediately. Not having any
letter from you nor money to pay with, and Mr. Hardinge pressing me
so about meeting Mr. Garratt and paying off the Clerks and other bills,
and finding if I discovered that I had not money, I should highly dis-
oblige, I did not know what to do. From your tenants I could raise
but 8/., so I borrowed some of a friend (which I must pay again next
week) and met Mr. Garratt and settled matters and paid as far as we
then could. . . There is a great deal more to pay, which we cannot
yet settle, some being very extravagant in their demands, and others
we could not have account of. My Lord Hartington's friends have
been very busy making interest for him and Mr. Eyre of Holm [?].
My Lord Hartington's name having been in the votes hath done him
service. And here is a report that you moved that the abjuration oath
might be compulsive, and was a promoter of that Bill : though most of
your friends are satisfied it was a false report, yet it doth you prejudice.
. Your friends fear they w T ill get ground in Scarsdale, if you and
Mr. Curzon take not a speedy care. ... I am not ignorant that I lie
under your and my Lady's displeasure ; and though I may not be so
happy as to know the true reason thereof, nor have an opportunity to
clear myself, yet am sensible my Lady is so often charging me with such
things that if I be guilty of, I am not a proper servant for you. . . .
Since I have great reason to believe that my leaving your service will be
much to your and my Lady's satisfaction, I shall be ready to comply
with your pleasure.
[Upon the back of this letter, Thomas Coke wrote
"Persons writ to: Mr. Aid. Brookhouse, Mr. Low and Mr. Smith
of Denbigh, Leo. Fosbrook, Mr. James Morris, Mr. F. Meynell,
Mr. W. Burdett, Mr. Balghy, Mr. Akred, Mr. Coke of Trusley,
Mr. Eob. Ashton, Sir Henry Every."]
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 3
1701-2, March 21. Derby. Abraham Butler to Thomas Coke, Coke MS8.
M.P.
At the last election for the county I and four brothers-in-law of mine
all voted firm for yourself and Mr. Curzon, and I am sure that amongst
us we made up the number of 30 besides ourselves amongst our
acquaintance and friends; and it cost me something above twenty
shillings in expenses for travelling charges several days ; and besides
this at the election Mr. Turner chose me to join with him as an in-
spector for three days. And now lately Mr. Fisher and some others
have sent for all the attorneys in the town and rewarded them for their
pains and left, me the only forlorn. I believe the fault is Mr. Fisher's,
by reason I once told him that his flustering tended more to your
prejudice than interest when you lost it before.
1701-2, March 21. Leicester. John Verney to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament.
We are like to have a great contest at our next election for this
county for my Lord Roos and my Lord Sherard join against Mr.
Wilkins and me. I hope you will this time be enough at leisure in
Derbyshire to give us your assistance. Your estate at Melton is seated
in the enemy's quarters ; and therefore it will be a particular obligation
to us, if you will dispose your interest in favour of Mr. Wilkius and
your humble servant.
1701-2, March 23. Knowlehills. Walter Burdett to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
By the Votes of your House last Wednesday 1 find you are one of
the Seven Wise Men in the opinion of the House : I wish you joy of
your office, and long continuance in it. I hear in Leicestershire Mr.
Verney and Mr. Wilkins intend to be candidates for that county, and
that the county are as unanimous against my Lord Ross (Roos) as
they were for him . . . The Lady Halifax (if you see occasion)
should be spoken to about Mr. Horton, her steward of Winfield Manor,
who though directed last election (I hear) did you and cousin Curzon
not that service he should have done [unfinished].
(1701-2, March 23.) John Wilkins to Thomas Coke at the House
of Commons.
Pray speak to Lord Huntingdon with speed. He will not go with us,
unless you can stem the tide. You can make him passive, and get him
I hope. I shall stick fast to you in Darbyshire, notwithstanding your
great opposers.
(1702, March 25.) John Wilkius to Thomas Coke at London.
The country gentlemen have sewed Mr. Varney and myself
together. Pray send to Melton to all your friends, for all the presby-
terians aro very busy. I wish you could send to Mr. Serjeant Biglaud
for he is not right to us.
1702, March 25. Hampton Town. Edward Goudge to Thomas
Coke at his house in St. James's Place.
I shall wait on you in a few days, in order to a settlement of all
accounts : there will be no more to do but to deduct what you and Mr.
Wright have paid from the last balance (which, I think, was about 44/.)
and the remainder is the debt. But one thing more I humbly trouble
you withal, viz., that whereas I have heard you are lately made one of
the Commissioners of Accounts, you would be pleased to put me into
some sort of business in that Office, that may be a livelihood, for that
which I am in at present is prejudicial to my health. I suppose, Sir,
a 2
4 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Co xs M 88 I need not tell yon that for some years past, for want of money occa-
sioned by the war, and by the use of ceiling painting, the employment
which hath been my chiefest pretence hath been always dwindling away,
till now it's just come to nothing.
1702, March 28. Radbourne (signature gone) to Thomas Coke.
[Indorsed by Mr. Coke, " Mr. Pole's man from Radbourne."]
Last week a servant of Mr. Wilmot's, of Osmaston, was here with
Mr. Pole; I suppose to concert matters against the next election,
because Mr. Pole then told him he could turn at least fifty who voted,
for you and Mr. Curzon last election. His past carriage doth suffi-
ciently demonstrate his will to do it at this time, who is now as restless
and busy as ever he was, before or since the last election
'Twill certainly be necessary that no time be lost, considering the dili-
gence of your opposers, to keep up that interest you have deservedly
gained, that you meet with no disappointment next time. I have
acquainted Sir N. Curzon herewith ; and if at any time I perceive
anything by Mr. Pole's movemeuts that I think will do you any service,
I will not fail to inform you thereof. But must beg it may be kept
private, for there will be no peace if it comes to Mr. Pole's knowledge.
1702, March 30. Doncaster. Charles Stanhope to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
The sigral instance lhat the public have given of its being sensible of
your gi-eat worth might in reason be thought a prevailing argument to
divert your former adversaries from making any further opposition on a
subsequent election. But since it often happens that some inconsiderate
men are influenced more by an unaccountable prejudice than the merit
of a cause, it may not be amiss for your friends to be upon their
guard : and in the number you may be confident to find me exerting,
to the utmost of my possibles, the small interest I can make for your
service.
1702, April 1. Derby. William Brookhouse to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament.
The poor prisoners for debt within my custody have sent up a
petition to the House of Commons for an Act for their releasement. I
therefore at their request do make bold to acquaint you that I believe
all their conditions to be so deplorable as requires your Honourable
House to consider how to relieve them. . . . I do assure you it is
as poor a gaol as any in the kingdom, and there are many who have
remained here some years for debts of four or five pounds value which
in all this time they never could raise money to pay. And most of those
whose debts are greater have been willing to divest themselves of all
they had in order to purchase reconciliation with their creditors, whose
severity hath been such as to continue them here. If at liberty they
might not only be a support to their respective families, but also take
off a great burthen and charge from the county. So that I humbly
desire you may be an instrument of this work of so charitable a nature,
and promote such an Act as may release all those who are desirous to
pay their last penny to their creditors: in doing which you'll not only
do the greatest act of charity for them and their distressed families, but
also a great piece of service to the country, which is at the charge of
maintaining them.
1702, April 4. Derby. G. Gregson to Thomas Coke, M.P.
I will with ail my heart serve Mr. Curzon and you the best I can,
and return my humble thanks for all your favours. Some of your
friends seeixed very much dissatisfied at the expression relating to
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 5
dissenters in the Address: but having not seen it, but only prejudiced CoksMSS.
by a false report. I sent them copies, which gave very good satisfaction
when they saw how it was restrained. I have got Pickard arrested,
who, rather than go to prison, bath acknowledged the fine wherein his
wife also joined. I hear of no opposition or interest making against
you : so I hope there will be no contest.
1702, April 4. (Glossop ?) William Hodgkinson to Thomas Coke
at the Parliament House in Westminster.
It hath been observed a great number of votes have come out of
Glossopdale against you. There's one Waterhouse, and Wagstaff my
Lord George Howard's bailiff, that are the great men amongst them.
I question not but his Lordship is in your interest. I have heard my
kinsman, Mr. Henry Bradshaw in the Custom House, highly commend
him, who I am satisfied will most heartily espouse your side, both in
this or any other matter. There are some in these parts will be for
Lord Marquis Hartington, we fear ; but you may depend on as many
votes as you had in the last election. If you could, with eonveniency,
send us the least charge that would be expended in procuring a patent
for a free school in our parish, 'twould very much oblige our neighbours
a3 well as your most obedient servant.
1702, April 4. Thorp Constantine. William Inge to Thomas Coke,
London.
I might reasonable think your silence proceeded from the business
of your new employment (which we are all much pleased withal) as
now from those sweets you find in your Lady's conversation, but I
attribute it only to the trouble my last gave you . . . for though
there are few qualifications more glorious than those of the true poet,
yet the nimis poeta is a character that nobody who has read Martial can
be fond of . . . I sim informed your neighbour the Lord Hunting-
don makes all the interest he can for the two Lords, Com. Leic.
1702, April 7. Dublin. G. (?) Vernon to Thomas Coke, Member
of Parliament in England.
A printed address to Members of the House of Commons, in which
Vernon slates that a Bill is preparing for relief of Mrs. Mary Vernon
in reversing her attainder, and that a petition has been prepared by
Mr. Thomas Carter in relation to the said Bill, and as he conceives it
to be the design of some to misrepresent things, he attempts by a few
lines either to prevent or remove the evils he is apprehensive of.
Whereas Mrs. Mary Vernon was waived for high treason in Ireland in
June 1696, Mr. Vernon absolutely denies tint he was any wise
soliciting or instrumental therein, or knew of it till February 1698-9
when he went for Ireland in order to revive his suit for the lands of
Clontarf and Holy brooks, and was informed of the attainder, and was
recommended to Mr. Thomas Carter, tenant of Holybrooks, as a fit
person to direct him in prosecuting his right. Mr. Vernon explains tho
proceedings which have been had before the Trustees of the Irish
forfeitures, and for the merit of his case refers to his petitions, &c.
wdiich have been laid before the House, and hopes that the Pill for the
relief of Mrs. Mary Vernon will not be made to extend in prejudice of
his right, nor the case bo clogged by any pretentions of Mr. Caiter till
Mr. Vernon's petition and case and present allegations shall be con-
sidered by the House.
1702, April 11. The llising Sun at Hockley in the Hole, London.
Patritius Home to the Flonble. Mr. Cooke at his house in St. James's
Place.
6 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. j humbly thank you for the kindness you offer me in that you will
recommend my ale to my Lady Marlborough. I have been preparing
a small quantity of ale for the purpose which I will do myself the
honour to present you with within this eight or ten days. I will only
add that it was brewed within this ten days, which creates a fear in
me that the newness of it may make it the less palatable.
(1702), April 20. John Wilkins to Thomas Cooke at the House
of Commons.
There is a place that is the Steward of the Honour of Leicester, that
hath always been in some nobleman's hand till Mr, Carter had it.
Now, Sir, Mr. Carter will go down stairs. If you please to take it
yourself, or let not Sir John Leveson dispose of it till he hath found
out a good man. If you will not accept of it yourself, send me word.
I will commend a deputy to you : the place is but barely ten pounds a
year. Pray acquaint Sir John Leveson with this, if he be Chancellor
of the Duchy.
1702, April 20. Castleton. Rev. Thomas Roe to Thomas Coke at
the Parliament House Westminster.
I shall not be remiss in any service I can do in the next election.
Mr. Balguy and I Avent above a month ago to a hamlet in this parish
called Edal, where there are a great many votes. They some of them
promised fair, but have so often deceived us, that I shall not very much
depend upon 'em. They had money to bear their charges both the last
elections, and will again I fear upon the same account prefer their
private interest to the public good. But I am in hopes \vc shall not
need 'em, for (as I am informed) Mr. Eyre says that the Marquis has
made no interest, and he thinks will never stand candidate more. On
this side no one has asked a vote for him yet. As to my own concern,
I would not have been so troublesome, had I a competency here, or
could I be easy with what I have. I have a catalogue of some livings
in the Queen's and Lord Chancellor's gifts, which I have underneath
sent you. If it be feasible to get a promise of the first of 'em that
becomes void (as I am informed is frequently done on the like occasion)
some one of 'em cannot but fall in a little time, most of the incumbents
being aged persons. (A list of nineteen livings in five counties.) If
you can put me into a likelier method, I shall take it as a great favour
to hear fiom you.
1702, April 22. London. John Coke to Thomas Coke at Mr,
Burdett's, Knowlehills, near Derby.
(Sends reports of the town as to changes in offices of State and at
Court.) We have lately had no mail from Lisbon. There arc letters
come by merchant ships which say that the men are sickly, very ill
provided with provisions, hospitals, horses and field equipage. There-
are others that say there are several Grandees arrived in Portugal who
give great assurance of carrying the point in Spain without bloodshed.
1702, April 25. On board Her Majesty's Ship the (Monk Mrmek?)
now riding at an anchor at the Buoy in the More. John Lit till to
Thomas Coke in St. James's Place, London.
. . Blessed be God I am very well, hoping to Almighty God von
are the same. We set sail from Smyrna the 2nd of January and
arrived at the Nore the 12th of April. We had a very long voyage
and very short of provisions, for we was at a quart of water a day and
three pound of bread a week, for three months' time, which went very
hard. Our ship's company was all imprest on board the ship. Sir.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 7
this is to satisfy your Honour that we do expect for to sail for the CogE - ,J '
Straits with all speed. This is the second letter I have sent since I
have been on board, for to satisfy your Honour that Captain Smith
hath been a great rogue to me all the voyage, and never taught me
navigation nor nothing else, but what I took on my own head ; which
was but so much money and time lost. But now I am entered in pay
as an able seaman 23s. per month ; I do not question but in a little
time to recover my lost time. I hope your Honour will be pleased for
to order an answer to be writ for me.
1702, April 27. A printed paper in the form of a play bill, having
at the top the royal arms between the letters A. R. (Anna Regina).
At the Bear Garden in Hockley in the Hole, near Clerkenwell
Green.
These are to give notice to all gentlemen, gamesters, and others that
on this present Monday, being the 27th of April 1702, a great match is
to be fought by a bald faced Dog of Middlesex against a fallow Dog of
Cow Cross, for a Guinea each Dog, five let-goes out of hand, which
goes fairest and furthest in wins all : being a General Day of Sport by
all the Old Gamesters, and a great Mad Bull to be turned loose in the
Game-place, with Fire-works all over him, and two or three Cats ty'd
to his Tail, and Dogs after them. Also other variety of Bull-baiting
and Bear-baiting. Beginning at two of the Clock.
[On a sheet, in which the above paper is enclosed, the following was
written by the Honourable George Lamb, then M.P. for Dun-
garvan] :
" This paper was read by me in the House of Commons in the
Debate on the Second Reading of Mr. Martin's Bill ' Against Bear-
baiting and other cruel Practices,' on the 11th of March 1825. The
Bill was then thrown out by a Division of 50 to 32. 1 found the paper
among Vice-Chamberlain Coke's letters at Melbourne Hall. G.
Lamb."
1702, April 29. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament, at St. James's Place.
. . . Since my coming hither we have had many hard frosts and
north winds, which have blasted most of my young peach trees, and
taken away the hopes of our having almost any plums : but I hope
that your trees at Melbourne, standing wanner, may have scaped much
better, and that they will pay you such an annual tribute as may induce
you to come and receive it, and at the same time oblige with your
company, Sir, your most humble servant and most affectionate father.
1702, May 2. Shardlow. Leonard Fosbrooke, Junio: 1 , to Thomas
Coke, Member of the Honourable House of Commons, Westminster.
. . . I will do you and Mr. Curzon what service I can, but hope
there will be no opposition. I believe 'tis only Mr. Serracold that stirs
the coal and puts Derby men upon getting up an account for himself
and some Londoners. Last week 1 forwarded three runlets of ale for
you. They are shipped in Richard Harris, freight paid to London. I
presume he may be at London by this time, if the report we have of
privateers being upon our coasts have not hindered him.
1702, May 2. Ham. Captain J. Port to Thomas Cooke [Coke] to
the House of Commons.
It being the opinion of most people here that there should be no Act
ol Parliament for a Pardon, yet the Queen will issue one of her own
authority in a short time : which, knowing your acquaintance with the
8 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. Lord Keeper, makes me entreat the favour of excepting notorious
crimes in the clergy, as many of whom are become so profligate, that
they .are not only a scandal to the Church, but even to Religion. I am
sui'e he with whom I am concerned is such. . . . Pray oblige me with
a line or two the next post, whether you think there will be a pardon
this summer.
1702, May 4. Knowlehills. Walter Burdett to Thomas Coke, a
Member of the Honourable House of Commons, Westminster. Free.
By your command I have finished a bower upon your ground
for cousin Nellie Curzon. It comes in all to 0*. 4d., which is almost
half as much as my rent, but I do not pretend to deduct, because stoppage
is no payment. My Lord Chesterfield and Lady Catherine are come
well down. You have a team of young ducklings wild upon your canal
in Gorstey Leys: I think there is sixteen : and you have also six horses
there, which, if you do not fence from the bower, will hinder the
growth of the thicket about it. Sir, as in duty bound I am your
observing gamekeeper, devout chaplain, and most humble servant.
1702, May 9. Ashborne. Captain John Beresford to Thomas
Coke, M.R
I am desired by divers good friends in Cheshire to beg the favour of
your good word to my Lord Keeper in behalf of a young gentleman,
Mr. Swetenham. His ambition, who is just now at the bar, is to come
into the Queen's Attorney's place for Cheshire and Flint ; presuming
Mr. Minshull, introduced by Sir John Mainwaring, and a violent
creature of his, will scarce be thought worthy to continue in the place.
If his small standing be thought an impediment, the present Mr.
Minshull and his predecessor, Mr. Eaton, came both in when just at
the bar : and Minshull by report continues as raw as he entered. The
salary is but twenty marcs a year, with some perquisites, sometimes to
be got by attendance at the Assizes and Quarter Sessions. The great
advantage is the reputation it would give to a young man. ... I
perceive my Lord Abingdon and Sir Eoger Mostyn are made friends in
this matter.
(1702), May 18. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster, London. Free.
Your bay stoned horse has not yet been bridled and saddled since
he came up : he is not, I think, 14 hands high, but is now pretty thick,
and no other ways improved. If you would sell him for what a market
would afford, I would buy him to make me a trotting pad. I do
think that if he is trained to hunt, he never will pay to 30/., or if he
will be a pacer, no more: with which are hazards. But being a fine
trotter, I would keep him for myself. Now the fancies of people
may run higher, so pray do not disoblige yourself on my account :
but if you had rather part than not, I'll take him at 20/. Mr.
Troughton is my encourager. Your paddock sown with turnips will
certainly be more useful to you than to set it this year. Mrs. Littill
showed me a letter from her son John, on board the " Monck," wherein
he says he is resolved either to have a gold chain, or a wooden leg,
or die. He says he was pressed. I heard you had put him under
Captain Giffard. I bid her be of good cheer. My Lady's dog Chance
has lost his cough, and not nice of diet. Derby Coffee houses say
J. How is put out of C. and retired 'into the country. Reports
from your town are that the young M[arquis of Hartington] and
Lord Roos also do stand, but our parts are seemingly yet quiet.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 9
1702, May 20. (Chesterfield.) Godfrey Watkinson and Paul Coke mss
Webster to John Curzon, Esquire, a Member of the Honourable House
of Commons, Westminster.
. . . We are obliged to you for your ready assistance to obtain a
convoy betwixt Hull and London ; but we are afraid that those convoys
that the Lord High Admiral speaks of, that have orders to touch at all
ports, will do us little service at Hull. For in the beginning of the
late war we had si ch general convoys, but we found but little benefit
by them, for Hull is situate so far up Humber, being 20 miles at least
from the mouth of the river, that when they had notice that a convoy
waited for them there, and made all the haste they could down, }et it
very often happened that the convoys were gone before they could get
down, being sometimes hindered by contrary winds ; and then the ships
that came from other places proved to be gone, there being no con-
venient haven to put into thereabouts : so that when they cane there
and found the convoys gone, they were loath to get back, and durst not
stay there, for fear of privateers, and so was tempted to run the hazard
of going without convoy. Upon these considerations, and ako con-
sidering that Hull is one of the chiefest towns of trade in England, the
Lords of the Admiralty was willing to grant 'em a stated convoy, only
to attend them, and other considerable places of trade as York, Gains-
borough, Stockwith, Nottingham, &c. situate upon the Rivers Trent
and Ouse. We are in hopes that when his Lordship is informed of the
great necessity there is of their having a convoy only to attend them,
bis Lordship will be willing to grant one as formerly they have had.
So we would desire that you and Mr. Coke would be pleased to try his
Lordship once more about it.
1702, May 20. Nottingham. Robert Hardinge to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
I am just now with Madam Firth at Nottingham who assures me
Mr. Firth is in your and Mr. Curzon's interest : and that she will use
her endeavours with Mr. Lander, late of Offreton (Alfreton), and on
him depends one Mr. Huthwayte of Nottingham. Please to write to
Mrs. Firth, and it may do more good.
1702, May 21. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke, M.P.
. . . I doubt that the want of rain will dry up all our fruit and
the continued north-east winds have blasted many of my young bearing
peach trees, which I believe is almost as great a disappointment to me,
who do only pretend to be a gardener, as the missing of a place at
Court is to the Lord F- who I hear will not stick at any price to
get one. I have enquired how things go at Melborn, and I am told
that you have abundance of fruit, and that Mr. Wilkins is about casting
a hundred yards of lead pipes to bring water into your garden, but 1
hear also that all the labourers and workmen there are discharged,
which makes me doubt that we may expect but little of your company
in the country.
(1702, May ?). Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke, M.P.
Though I am always very unwilling to trouble my friends, yet 1
doubt, now you are engaged in business, I shall be desired by .-o many
persons of quality to recommend their concerns to you that it will be
an uneasiness to us both, and therefore I wish that you could furnish
me with a general answer. I know how to turn off little people, but
for persons of great quality they must be treated with more respect,
and this is the occasion of my sending you the enclosed paper, and
desiring to know what answer shall be made.
10 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke Mbs. \_Iaclosnre.~] Duchess of Devonshire to Earl of Chesterfield.
The receipt I told you of my woman forgot to keep a copy of, else I
had sent it you. ... If your Lordship thinks it proper to speak in
the behalf of a gentleman that I have from several people a good
character of to Air. Coke, I should be glad of it, having married a
kinswoman of mine (I inclose the request), and if not inconvenient to
comply will obleege your Lordship's faithful servant and sister.
1702, June 8. Chesterfield. Godfrey Walkinson and Paul Webster
to Thomas Coke, a Member of the Honourable House of Commons in
"Westminster.
We are mightily obliged both to yourself and Mr. Curzon for the
trouble you have had in our concern about convoy, which so far as we
can understand will not be of much service to the Hull ships. if the
convoys that are coming up and going could put into Grimsby Road
and stay there 24 hours for the Hull fleet, it will be of service sufficient
for them : but that Ave believe cannot be expected, they having such a
fleet of colliers to convoy, and the uncertainty of weather and winds will
prevent them from coming by Humber at any certainty. Hull is the
third port in the kingdom, and all the ships belonging to Trent (which
are fifty at least) goes by benefit of the Hull convoy, besides what comes
from York ; so that certainly it is not unreasonable to expect one to
attend that fleet. But if you think otherwise, rather than give you too
much trouble, we will be content to take our lot with other people. I
am informed that it will be moved my name be put with the Commis-
sion of Peace. I do assure you that I'm altogether unfit for it, and
therefore beg you will be pleased to put a stop to it. G. Watkinson.
1702, June 10. Osmaston. R. Wihnot to [Thomas Coke].
I presume there will speedily be a new Commission of the Peace for
Derbyshire, and several gentlemen put in, and others displaced, amongst
whom I hear Mr. Cotchet is one. I was desired by some to speak in
his behalf, that he might be continued ; and if it shall be thought
proper so to do, I believe it would be taken very kindly, . . . Mr.
Cotchet seems to be a good natured, moderate, gentlemanlike man, and
I believe will [not] give disturbance in elections, &c, so I submit the
matter.
(1702) June 14. John Wilkins to Thomas Coke at Melbourne.
Mr. Verney and I do join our interest. Your best way to make your
votes is to make what you can for us both, if you give me the pre-
eminence, I shall ever acknowledge it as a favour. If you can't make
two votes in one man, make one either for Verney or Wilkins. Make
it for Verney, if it be against me, for I will serve Mr. Verney heartily.
Lord Stamford is not against us. I thought you had something else to
do than make Parliament men. I find you choose well : any body
would be glad to be unmarried, that you might choose for them. Good
luck and a boy.
1702, June 10. R. Hardinge to Thomas Coke in St. James's
Place.
As to Mr. Allen, I have heard that both the horses were blind, or
near it, before Lady Mary went away; and I knoiv nothing of their legs
or feet. I think he lias kept home very strictly, except when Mr.
Wilkins has used him, and been very sober in the lieutenancy. You
must be sure that Sir P. G., W. E., R. W., and S. P. are always in the
country, and always appear in businesses, and often Sir C. P. To
these there should be a majority always to appear, of as good quality
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 11
and estates, and then there will be no jarring. As to Mr. C[otchettj, coke liss
I have not seen Mr. Wilmot, but will speak to him. There has been a
report that Sir J, Harpur joined with Lord Hartington, spread about
Winstcr, &c. Pray let it be dissipated by Sir John's letter to Henry
Harpur and his friends thereabouts ... I think the Derby free-
holders should all be speedily spoke to by Mr. Curzon, and writ to by
you in a number of letters . . . Your friends in Peake, Scarsdale, and
Appletree must be diligent : our Hundred and this nether side will not
I think stir from you. John Beresford and Port, &c. will be at Bake-
well. Pray send the Justices a buck and dish of fish, and get what
gentlemen you can there. I think the Sessions will be at Bakewell the
14th of July. Probably by that time you will be there ; Mr. Curzon
I suppose will ... I am very much obliged to Lady Mary for her
kind remembrance of me by Mr. Curzon. Her dog Chance has lost
his cough, and is very nimble, and can scarce leave a full meal when
I give it him ... I have always observed you give my Lady
H[arpur] an epithet, viz., fine, young, or the like, but it has I suppose
no other effect upon you than to show your great civility. I should
now be extremely pleased to do Sir John the service of assisting him
to my power in anything that he has occasion for. The little horse
is now at Foremark pacing with John Burdett's. The poll at Derby,
and the assessing stock may engage freeholders. Sir Henry Every
and my Lady are in "Worcestershire. Sir Robert has put away the
Scott Chaplain for not praying for Queen Nanny.
{On the same Sheet.)
1702, June 19. Foremark. We are drinking your health (Signed),
John Burdett : J. Curzon : D. Burdett : R. Hardinge : Eliz. Jodrell :
Walt. Burdett : Robert Burdett : F. Hopegood. You may judge J. B.
mad : of six cubs, secured for the country's good, thrae are dead and
three run away. John Burdett had rather have drunk to you in Donis-
thorpe water. 1 fear he roust go almost to hell for it. And then you
must expect from him a treatise of visions : the well being now about
twenty yards and no water.
1702, June 22. Brampton Moor. Godfrey Watkinson to Thomas
Coke, a Member of the House of Commons . . . Westminster.
I received your letter and am extremely obliged to you. I am every
way unlit for it, else would not have refused to serve the Government.
As for a convoy, we are very well satisfied that you have omitted
nothing, and therefore we must wait till they be fitted with ships and
men that they have occasion for. We are informed that the Lord
Hartington's friends are making interest against a new election, but
they do it privately. I fancy, if he has any hopes of succeeding, he
will stand again, ahd the dissenters are apt enough to give him
encouragement. 1 believe they are sensible that it's in vain to offer
anything against you, and so their design must be to throw out Mr.
Curzon. If they do proceed, I think your presence amongst us would
be very serviceable to Mr. Curzon. I once hinted to you that perhaps
the Duke of Leeds might make some interest in the far side of our
Hundred, viz., about Beighton, Killamarsh, Balborough, Whit well, or
thereabouts: but, however, he could influence Colonel Gell who
brought in ten or twelve votes to the last election from Sheffield side.
1 think Sir Benjamin Bathurst should be more positive in his
letter to Mr. Allison than he was in his last.
1702, June 27. Kedleston. John Curzon, M.P., to Thomas Coke.
M.P., in St. James's Place, London.
12 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. I was at Ashburne fair on Wednesday last, where I saw several of our
friends. I cannot learn that Lord Hartington finds any encouragement,
or intends to stand. Mr. Berisford told me that he was with some men
of Carrfield that voted for the Lords the last election. And they had
promised him to vote for us, and make what interest they can for us.
My father writes that T should secure Lord Shrewsbury's tenants by
Mr. Arden. I have no commission from Lord Shrewsbury, so that all
I can do with Mr. Arden is to entreat him by letter from myself that
he will be so kind to prevail with my Lord's tenants to vote for me.
As soon as the Parliament is dissolved, 'twill be necessary for us to
acquaint our friends with it by circular letters. Be pleased to consider
whether we should write singly, or send letters signed by both. You
have a list of mine of the foreign votes: pray send it me down. Your
kinsman Mr. Pole is in London ; he went out of the country much
displeased : taxes don't go according to his mind. I am still of an
opinion that the greatest service and favour that could have been done
for our country would have been to have turned that worthy gentleman
and some others out of the commission of deputy lieutenants.
1702, July 5. Alderwasley. C. Hurt to Thomas Coke in
St. James' Street.
I understand you are desirous to have me act in the Commission of
the Peace in our county. I hope you will find older heads than mine
for that troublesome office. At present I think mine too young, and
desire you to excuse me. I shall be ready to serve you and my country
in the condition I am in to the utmost of my power. My Lord
Hartington's agents are very still about us, which makes me think you
will have no trouble with them the next election.
1702, July 6. Ashborne. Captain John Beresford to Thomas Coke,
M.P., at his house in Spring Garden, near Charing Cross.
His Grace at Chats worth mentions the putting by his son
last time to several that go, and that his son is ready to serve his country,
if they think fit to choose him : but does not say he shall stand, and I
presume he has not yet met with sufficient assurance, that he shall be
chose, so I hope this election may be a quiet one. As to what you
write about the mines, 'lis plain truth upon Sir Philip Gell. He thinks
to avoid the censure by not acting : but he does but hide his head, the
body is seen. It hath placed me in a great deal of difficulty, which
however T hope may so end as neither to impair your interest nor my
own credit with them. For the great mine of Rockwood, instead of
adding a three pence to the last year, we have abated half, so that
instead of 213/. they are taxed but 80/., and I am confident arc not
displeased. The rest I daresay we can please, all unless where S.'r Ph.
Gell is concerned, and these I least regard. But I hope now that
Parliament is dissolved you will shortly be down, and then I shall give
you a full account. In hopes of seeing Sir John Harpur sooner I have
omitted to beg his interest in Cheshire for Sir Boger Mostyn and Sir
George Warburton. Jf he be not come out of town 1 beg you will
procure his letter to go down by next post to his agents in Cheshire,
that his interest may attend and be disposed of by Mr. Brooke, the son
of Sir Richard Brooke (because there are more of the name), who lives
near Chester and Sir John's estate. We hear a discourse in the
country that Mr. Cotchett is likely to retire with Mr. Spateman out of
business which I am sorry for ; he is much resorted to and well spoken
on by our neighbours about Ashborne. I suppose him one of the best
of the gang and could wish he might be spared.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 13
1702, July 8. John Verney to Thomas Coke. CokeMSS.
Mr. VV ilk ins and I are extremely obliged to you already for the
interest you have made for us in this county : and it would be of the
greatest consequence imaginable to us, if your affairs would permit you
to honour us with your company at the election. We have a great
many persons towards Melton side that will vote for us ; but the power
of the two Lords has carried off from us all the gentry of that part of
the country. So that if you would please to permit the freeholders
from that part of the country to attend you into Leicester, your pre-
sence would give great reputation to us, and encouragement to our
friends : and I am sure we have number sufficient in those parts to
make a very considerable figure if they could have the honour to be
conductei by a person of your quality.
1702, July 16. (London.) J. Bromley to Thomas Coke, at the Earl
of Chesterfield's, Bradby (Bretby).
I am glad you are like to have no opposition ; and heartily wish the
noble Lord may meet, where he is gone, with some gentleman of as
much courage and conduct as yourself to disappoint him there too. I
presume his brother will make nothing of it in your neighbourhood, nor
more at Westminster. We have no news ; only Sir J. Munden has
been tried and is acquitted ; and 'tis reported Lady Book, who has had
a fever in her lying-in, is dead. For want of other subject, I must
entertain you, how I am employed. Captain Cartwright will vouch for
me I am not idle. He and I examine Lord B[anelagh's] accounts, and
hope to be able to make you a report at our meeting. I keep the
accounts, and part not with them out of my sight, that I may be able to
answer none of the vouchers are embezzled or diminished.
1702, July 1 8. John Akrod to Thomas Coke, at Melbourne.
I received a letter from Mr. Curzon and yourself concerning your
resolutions of standing for members. You may assure yourselves of my
utmost endeavours. Sir Nathaniel Curzon's servant, who brought your
letter, was making inquiry what money I had laid out. I find I have
disbursed 71. I made bold last winter to hint to you to show some
kindness to the freeholders in Ashover, because what was done in other
places was very kindly taken. Mr. Watkinson treated the freeholders
in Brampton at his own house, and I did the like at Somershall by
Mr. Clarke's order. ... If you and Mr. Curzon think fit to do
anything hereafter and please to let me know it, I shall readily obey
your commands. I could wish Mr. Curzon's occasions would have
given him leave to have been at Chesterfield at this time, when he
might have been acquainted with some Scarsdale friends to whom he is
yet a stranger.
1702, July 20. (London.) J. Bromley to Thomas Coke, at the
Earl of Chesterfield's at Bretby, in Derbyshire.
We have wanted you more than I expected. Mr. St. John came to
town on Saturday night, but Mr. Brydges is not yet arrived. . . .
We hear nothing further from the Earl of Oxford, or Ranelagh. The
latter has given way to Sir Thomas Littleton at Castle Rising, and I
believe will not be elected anywhere, which must be a mortification.
Mr. How has prevailed for the City of Gloucester, and his friends are
not out of hopes for his success in the county. However we are sure
to have him, which prieves some people more than all the other elections
in our favour. You'll judge by the printed lists how well they go, and
I hope others whom it most concerns will consider what little help has
been given us, and from thence make a right judgment of the true
14 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION".
strength and interest of this kingdom. Lord Hartington, we henrd
could not have carried his election, if Lord F. had not desisted.
1702, July 21. (London.) J. Bromley to Thomas Coke, at the Earl
of Chesterfield's.
I am very glad your town election is so well over, and hope your3
will be with as little trouble. Lord J. is not like to prevail here, nor
Sir A. C. But what will be most welcome, I can assure you Mr. Howe
is elected at Bodmin, in the room of Mr. Russell Roberts : I saw it
last night under the Bishop of Exon's hand and that he had recom-
mended him at the request of Dr. Jane. As to your staying in the
country to attend the Leicestershire election, you are a public person,
and I think may very well consider which may be most for the public
interest. I believe Mr. Brydges and Mr. St. John will be this week
in town, and then we can make a Board. Sir W. Glyn is chose at
Woodstock by 28. Sir J. Packington is chose with Ja. Herbeit for
Aylesbury.
1702, July 25, Lord Keeper Sir Nathan Wright to [Thomas Coke].
I have lately received a letter from the Duke of Devonshire, wherein
he complains of the new Commission of the Peace for Derby : and more
particularly for leaving out Mr. Spateman and Mr. Cotchett, both, as
he says, men of estate and very active and useful justices in the
country, and for putting in Mr. Brook Boothby and Mr. John Beresford,
the last a known Jacobite, and neither of them of any estate, or other
good qualities to recommend them to the Commission. I am un-
acquainted with them all, and a stranger to them, and therefore
cannot give any answer to his Grace, until I am enabled by you and
your brother members of that country, by whose advice I made the
alterations. Therefore T desire of you the favour to enquire info the
circumstances of these four gentlemen, and give me a perfect account
of them in a post or two. I hope by this time I may wish you joy of
your re-election to serve in Parliament. I hear Mr. Harpur is chosen
at Derby town. The elections hitherto give hopes of a true Church of
England Parliament.
1702, July 30. From the Camp at Peear (?) Thomas Burton to
Thomas Coke.
I have received my commission from my Lord Mallberow (Marl-
borough) : as soon as I presented your letter, it was granted, which
I restore you many thanks for. My Lord Mallberow presents his
service to you, as per his orders in my letter. I am in Sir Bevil
Grinfield's (Granville's) regiment, and a few lines of recommendation
from you will do me a great kindness to the Lieutenant Corronall. . . .
I cannot have the money from my brother out of the country so soon as
I want it, for to buy me a tent, a bed, a baggage horse and a gold sash,
which the Corronall says that I must buy these things. I desire in the
mean time 20/. till I hear from my brother, which I desire per first
post.
1702, August 5. Leicester. William Inge, J. Wilkins to Thomas
Coke at his house in St. James's Place, London.
Our friends are returned, the numbers as follow :
Ross 2,010, Sherard 2,054, Verney 2,437, Wilkins 2,475.
The subscribers drink your health.
1702, August 8. Derby. Walter Horton to [Thomas Coke].
Those that by their own merits, and by the discerning power of
the wisest princes are raised to the highest honours have one way left
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 15
of rising higher, if they graciously look down with a generous, nay coke mss.
(I may have leave to call it) a divine compassion upon those beneath
them. I would therefore make a humble request to you and beseech
your interest with my Lord Keeper to recommend me to the next
vacancy of a Canon Residentiary place in the Cathedral Church of
Gloucester. If it were not for Tully's reason that an epistle cannot
blush, I should be ashamed of this address to you, which nothing but
your condescending humanity could have justified. All good men
seriously triumph in my Lord Keeper's deserved advancement, and
earnestly wish him a long and a vigorous health, an increase of honour,
and a late, a very late, most blessed immortality. And permit me
to pray that you may long continue what you really are, a support
to the Church, and an ornament and defence to the State, and a patriot
to all honest men.
1702, August 22. Sutton. Lord Scarsdale to Thomas Coke at
St. James's Place.
I do not doubt but you have already had information of the dis-
pleasure of our Lord Lieutenant in relation to the alterations made
in our Commission of the Peace. I am told by several people that
he is almost as uneasy under Captain Berrisford being put in, as
Mr. Spateman's being left out. I thought fit to give you notice, that
you might prepare my Lord Keeper against any attack made upon him;
which must be quietly done, for his Grace is upon the road, and,
though he did design to stay some days in Neadwood Forest, I do
imagine that the Queen's going to the Bath may hasten him to wait
upon her, before her journey thither. As for the Captain, you cannot
say too much in his behalf, for he is a man every way deserving, and I
am sure sufficiently qualified as to estate. As to Spateman, you cannot
say too much in the reverse. I can affirm it to you from the informa-
tion of the next neighbours that he is a constant frequenter of con-
venticles, and caused a meeting-house to be built for that purpose
at Alfreton : which of itself is exception enough to be made to a Queen,
who has so fully declared herself for the Church of England. Pray
acquaint my Lord Nottingham with this, and get him to speak to the
Queen about it, for if by any inadvertency Spateman should get in
again, it would be a blow to the honest gentlemen here, and to the
interest now made never to be recovered.
1702, August 31. Locko. Henry Gilbert to Thomas Coke, one of
the Commissioners for Public Accounts at the Office in Spring Garden,
London.
Your civility and kindness to your friends doth but embolden them
to give you fresh trouble, to confirm which this comes to solicit your
interest in behalf of a kinsman of my father's and mine to be Master of
the Stamp Office at Exeter : his name is William Holbcch. He has
got my Lord Willoughby of Brook's letter to Mr. Bromley. . . I beg
you also to consider of that matter Mr. Gregson and I spoke to you
about relating to the coinage of halfpence for Ireland, and to give us
your assistance in it.
1702, September 12. From the Camp. Thomas Burton to Thomas
Coke, Piccadilly, London.
That money I had of Mr. Francis Wright was 20/.; he knows
I did pay 10/. of it away in London, and 10/. I had left for to bring me
to Holland, when I went from Williamstart (Willemstadt) to the Hague
to wait on my Lord Mallberow. I was forcad to stay there a fortnight
before I could come to the Camp, and when I came to the Camp, I was
16 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. six weeks before I received my commission. I was forced to borrow
money to pay my charges. Pray judge whether 20/. will buy me a
scarlett suit, and a horse, tent aid bedding, and pay for my commis-
sion. I beg the favour of you that you will speak to my brother, or
else I shall not have it.
1702, September 2o. N".S. Camp at Sutandai. Richard Pope to
Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament, at St. James's Place, London.
I would have answered your favour last Thursday, but having a
prospect of sending you an account of the surrender of Venloo by this :
having the same day a letter from Fred. Cornwallis, with a relation of
their taking the Fort St. Michel, on this side the river, by storm, when
the besieged thought they could scarcely make a lodgment on the
counterscarp. And that with very little loss on our side, our men
behaving themselves so that no one that was there could with modesty
express, nor no one that was not, believe. This so frighted the besieged
that they have surrendered the town without standing an assault, falsely
imagining the besiegers designed a general one, when they only were
preparing for a feu de joie for the taking of Landau. I do not yet hear
the articles, but my Lord Marlborough is just gone to meet some of the
States, and I believe they will be public tomorrow. It was reported
that they have quitted Ruremond but my Lord does not believe it. By
these things you may judge what probability there was of success when
we might have engaged with a superiority of number on our side :
no stone walls, nor any impediment but a morass in Mr. Dopt's noddle.
But my Captain will give you this winter a better account of these
matters than I can pretend to do, being chosen by my Lord for his
aide-de camp, the day of that designed engagement, and has been
employed by him ever since in the most important affairs of that sort,
and has since given him a brevet of lieutenant colonel : he gives yon
his humble respects.
1702, September 26.. John Howe to Thomas Coke at St. James's
Place.
I received your favour the day before I left Bath. I know not what
the waters will do for my health, but I have found very little pleasure
there; that perhaps may come from my own, and not the dullness
of the place, where a world of materials for it were present. We had
no intrigue talked on, whether the world be more virtuous or more
discreet, I know not : in so much that we have them from London.
Amongst which a certain gentleman with Mrs. K. is mentioned, to
whom I wish every success he desires. Your relation of the two ladies'
treatment of Lord D. I found very pleasant. I hope you are provided
with good entertainment for us next Sessions from your Beard. I do
not ihink to be in town before the 20th taking for granted there will be
no struggle about a Speaker. There was a design amongst the enemy
to set up Ccl. Granville to divide us, but that is too foolish a project to
be attempted.
(1702?), October 10. Dorney Court, Windsor. Gilbert Clarke to
Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament, in St. James's Place, London.
. . . I may suppose you are not ignorant that the Governor
of Maryland has left that place. Among the rest who make all their
interest for such an important thing is Sir Thomas Lawrence, whose
character is reported extraordinary ; and whose name is not unknown
to the Queen for his second son was captain and playfellow to the
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 17
Duke of Gloucester, much beloved by him and then the Princess. He Com MS*.
was afterwards lost with the Carlisle ship. The thing that I desire is
that you would make what interest you can with my Lady Fletcheville
about this concern. I believe my Lord Rochester and the Bishop of
London have promised their endeavours. . . . It is but duty to do
what one can for our friends.
1702, October 12, Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
Your favour of the 6th instant brought me the first news of our ill
success at Cales, which I confess was beyond expectation, there being
no army to oppose us. I do not doubt of the trouble it has given to
all the kingdom, but it must in particular have been the greatest
affliction imaginable to the poor Duke of Ormond, to have so great a
design miscarry under his conduct. I confess I wish myself at London
to be informed of all the particulars of it. . . . Some of my
bailiffs have not yet brought my rents, but do hope very soon to
embrace you at London.
(1702), October 12. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to
Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament, at the Office for Public Accounts
in Spring Garden, London.
Winter comes on : therefore please to let your man, John Gardiner,
buy me one of Colonel Wilson's coach lantherns, and I'll pay him for
it. I think the stick is about 6 foot long, and screwed on at the head.
The Mayor of Derby invited Sir John [Harpur] and Sir Nat. Curzon,
Mr. Curzon, Walter Burdett, Mr. Harpur, me and some more. I
suppose it was about the Navigation. I had business in town, so saw
but little of them after dinner. But Mr. Alex. Stanhope drank
prosperity to the Corporation, so I suppose he is satisfied. Mr. Curzon
set outs for town to-day : but goes by Penn. Mr. Harpur will not be
in town till Monday night, going by Mr. Warren's. I was at Chester-
field Sessions : I do not hear that J. Fitzherbert, or they of that side,
will act. I hear Henry Gilbert will. Sir Charles [Pye?] acts 'at
Derby : so that Mr. Cotchett's place is supplied. Mr. Cantrell of
Hartshorne was there indicted for sheepstealing, together with his
man. His man was then committed till the assizes. Mr. Cantrell was
frighted so as to abscond ; but I did him the favour to get an order to
bail him till the assize?, which is done. He lays the fault on J.
Wilkins,and says 'tis a party cause : but in trnth he is an accessory post
factum, and a rascal, which you need [not ?] be told.
1702, October 24. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster, London.
Several of your Derby friends are very uneasy about the Commis-
sioners for the Land Tax, especially at Mr. Burrows, who they say is
partial and very oppressive to them, and is the chief promoter of it. I
hope Mr. Curzon and the Burgesses will find a way to leave him out :
and that there may be a number in Derby qualified to act, as will
balance your enemies there. The list will iuform you, and I hope it
will not be forgot. The gentlemen that serve for the town may
readily imagine that the tradesmen must comply in humouring this set
of Commissioners, when they have so considerable a power over them,
as the assessing personal estates, and making what assessors they will.
I hope you will receive good Lady Mary in good plight next Thursday,
and that John Gardiner will remember the lanthern.
II 58973. B
18 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Oo Ka M SB. (1702), October 29. St. Lawrence, near Liege. Lieutenant Richard
Pope to Thomas Coke.
I suppose you have had an account of our marching here, and of the
French having abandoned the town upon our approach : as likewise the
taking of the citadel on Monday last by storm. We began to fire
yesterday on the Charterhouse Fort, which is this day surrendered on
honourable terms, the garrison to be conducted to Antwerp, with two
small pieces of cannon. I believe we shall march towards quarters in
four or five days : our is the Buss (Herzogen Bosch). I think I
cannot come for England this winter ; Colonel Sibourg designing to go
over, and the Cornet there already. But I do not fear wanting friends
as long as you and he are there. If there be any new raised forces, I
should be glad to be amongst them, if I could have a post worth while.
If there be to be any, I reckon you will know as soon as anybody,
therefore pray think, dear Sir, of your most obedient servant.
1702, November 8. Geartenden Bord (Gertruidenborg). Thomas
Burton to Thomas Coke at his house in St. James's.
I have not heard from my brother since you writ to Lieutenant Pope
that my brother would provide money for me. What money I owe for
my commission and tent and carrying baggage is stopped out of my
pay, now that I am come to garrison, all at once, so that I shall have
nothing to live on all this winter. I am as poor as Job, and I must
buy me bedclothes, and gold sash and silk scarf, and a great many
things. Here is a gentleman in the regiment that laid down the money
upon honour ; if I don't pay him, it will stain my reputation. ... It
will cost 50/. to acquit me. This bearer is a Captain in my regiment
and if you think fit to pay him what money I shall have, it will be paid
here per his order.
1702, November 8. Thorp Constantine. William Inge to Thomas
Coke, a Member of Parliament, one of the Commissioners of the
Accounts of England.
.... At this juncture I could not but congratulate with and thank
you for the vote concerning the impeached, and your order for a Bill to
prevent Occasional Conformity. They have something in them too
reviving not to be thought of, and if thought of something too great not
to be thanked for. I question not but our Patriots will now be as
successful as our Generals, and St. Stephens yield as many laurels and
blessings as Vigo has done. In short we are all transported in the
glorious scene of our affairs, and bless and thank the procurers of them.
Go on, great Patriots, with the noble undertaking of retrieving our
Church as well as State, be great as you are good, and may all your
enemies be ours and truckle to your worth and our wishes. Did I not
know our concerns cannot dispense with the loss of you for a minute, I
could scarce stop the pleasing current of my thanks and praises.
1702, November 11. Somershall. John FitzHerbert to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster. Free.
I most thankfully acknowledge your kind remembrance in sending
the Votes, and for so long as you are pleased to continue the favour, I
could wish they were directed by Uttoxeter bag, Staffordshire. Our
late success at sea, together with the seeming unanimity of the House
of Commons in their just proceedings, will make the country more
cheerfully undergo the burden of taxes, which at this juncture lie very
heavy by reason of the lowness of our markets for all commodities that
relate to the farmers.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 19
1702, November 27. Newgate. Thomas [Watson Bishop of] St. coke mss.
David to the Honourable Mr. Coke, a Member of Parliament.
Being this day advised of jour great and generous charity in con-
sidering the case of an oppressed persecuted Bishop, I thought it my
duty to make my acknowledgments, and assure you whatever characters
malice and calumny have given me, I always did and shall endeavour
to approve myself an honest Englishman and Bishop of the Church of
England. I should be too troublesome to relate how long and much
I have suffered from the Archbishop's assumed power, warranted
neither by law nor precedent, as well as injustice in condemning me
for crimes I always abhorred and detested. I bless God for the
supports I have had from him, and a good conscience which is as clear
and free from the crimes he hath fastened upon me as I was when I
went first to Cambridge ; and nothing but his Grace's will and pleasure
make me guilty. I have been, Sir, near twenty-three weeks a prisoner,
upon the Archbishop's significavit for not paying my lawful costs,
which he, upon the belief of the adversary's books, taxed at
603/. 15*. Sd., which according to the table of fees, as I am informed,
would not exceed ] 00/. But his Grace may as well tax damages under
the name of costs, as what he hath done : who hath doomed me to
deprivation, and hath thereby punished me in my credit and reputation,
and in my estate and liberty. I humbly own the undeserved favour to
a man who is a precedent, and the first instance of suffering in many
respects.
1702, December 5. Overton. William Hodgkinson to Thomas
Coke, at the Parliament House, Westminster.
I humbly thank you for your continued favours in sending me the
Votes, which I communicate to as many of my neighbours as desire to
see them. We are very much hindered in the working of our lead
mines by the parson who hath some lands and properties in grounds
adjoining to our said works, and will not suffer us to work them as
others of our neighbours most willingly suffer us : although we have
offered him as good terms as any other of our neighbours Avhatsoever.
By which obstinacy in him many of our workmen having nothing to do,
and by which our parish in particular is a great sufferer : so would
intreat you if practicable to get the inclosed put into the Poor Bill, and
the charge that attends it shall be most gratefully paid you.
(Draft clause. To make an agreement in writing signed by two
thirds at least in number and value of proprietors of grounds in or
through which mines of minerals or soughs are carried binding on all
other proprietors of such grounds.)
1702, December 7. John Akrode to Thomas Coke at the House
of Commons.
At the desire of Mr. John Newham of Whittington I give you this
trouble. He is much concerned at the design of making Derwent
navigable, because of his estate lying a considerable length by the side
of it. When this matter was formerly in agitation, he received a letter
from the Corporation to preserve him from damage. He requests that
if the Bill do pass there may be such a clause in it.
1702, December 23. Locko. Henry Gilbert to Thomas Coke,
House of Commons.
I did expect the Bishop of Lichfield would have presented you before
now with a Bill concerning Tithes. . . . When you receive it, T intreat
you to move the House for leave tobring it in. . . . The Bill is very
harmless: it will take nothing from any man : only make it more easy
b 2
20 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. for good men, who iodine to restore any tithes to the Church, by
making them descend as inheritances at the common law, and by
curbing the statutes of mortmain in that case only. I recommend the
management to you and the success to Providence.
1702, December 28. Michael Burton to Thomas Coke, House of
Common?.
The occasion of this trouble is upon the account of my old cousin
Hurt of Alderwaslee. There is a Nonconformist gentleman, who is, I
think, by place, a messenger to the Lords of the Treasury, that for fear
of the Act to prevent Occasional Conformity, is resolved to sell his
place, and has offered the refusal of it to my cousin Hurt's second son,
who married a relation of the said gentleman. I think he asks 400/. or
500/. for it, and pretends it to be in salary and perquisites nearly
300/. a year. . . . My cousin Hurt, being not willing to lay out
so large a branch of his child's fortune without information and en-
couragement of some judicious friend, pitched upon you as a person
whom he thought both capable and ready to do him such a kindness :
and being not able himself by reason of the gout, ordered me to
acquaint you with the matter and request the favour of you to make an
enquiry into the nature of the place, &c. ... I beg you will favour
me with your opinion of the aforesaid Bill, whether you think it will
have strength to travel through the House of Lords, and make any
-vacancies considerable. There is a friend of yours would venture
1 ,500/. upon such a post as you would advise him to. An untoward
indisposition had near deprived Wirkesworth Hundred of a justice of
peace and you of a staunch vote, but I compounded with Death for an
old woman, and so he let me alone for this time. This Bill has so
envenomed all the Presbyterians that they are making all imaginable
interest underhand against you and Mr. Curzon against the next
. election.
1702-3, January 3. Dublin. Isaac Manby to [Thomas Coke].
The inclosed is the report from the committee appointed to inspect Sir
William Robinson's accounts, and upon which the censure of the House
upon him was grounded ; it was sent me this morning by the clerk .
. . We have little news here, my Lord Duke, being at Kilkenny, will
return on Wednesday next. AVe yesterday lost another Commissioner
of the Revenue, Mr. Carleton : Mr. Van Homrigh died the Thursday
before : by which there are two vacancies in that Commission, and at
ieast forty pretenders to fill them. Those that are gone were noted
men for diligence and good management. I wish them well succeeded
for the public service.
1702-3, January 11. Locko. Henry Gilbert to Thomas Coke at
the House of Commons.
You have very much obliged me with your opinion about the Tithe
Bill. How it is now worded, I know not ; but it was never my intent
to have the Statute of Mortmain totally repealed, but only restrained as
to this Bill. However I am content that it follow the pattern of that
you mention in the late reign, " For encouraging Charitable Gifts to
Colleges and Schools." . . . We are yet in the dark as to a new
Sheriff, which some fancy will be fixed either upon Sir Charles Pye or
me : but I beseech you do what kindness you can to divert it.
1702-3, January 27. Robert Child to Thomas Coke.
In your letter you are pleased to call that a civility, which a grateful
sense of the many obligations which my father and I owe to his Lord-
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 21
ship [the Earl of Chesterfield] commanded from me. The picture cost c *e MSS.
me 111 guineas, and I shall not ask my Lord any more for it, but think
myself very happy that I have this opportunity of pleasuring his Lord-
ship by it. I beg you to acquaint his Honour with this.
[On this letter Mr. Coke endorsed " The Lanfranc picture."]
1702-3, February 1. Lichfield. Lord Stanhope to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
This is to acquaint you that Sir Clement Fisher (who is my intimate
friend) is now pricked down Sheriff" for Warwickshire ; and 1 shall take
it as a favour if you will go to the Lord Nottingham from me, and tell
him that if he pleases to get my friend Sir Clement off, I shall take it
as a very singular favour at his hands. I would not give you this
trouble, but that I have formerly had the honour to be very well known
to his Lordship, and sent him several beagles; so that perhaps, with
the help of your countenance, I may succeed. ... I thank you for
the poetry, which I am informed the noble Colonel had a hand in.
1702-3, February 23. Shackerstone. T. Hall to Thomas Coke at
his house in St. James's Street, near St. James's House.
When I was to wait on you about my miller's mare taken up in your
manor of Castle Donington I had other business with a servant of
yours, Mr. Alleyne. Since his so many breaches of promise I am now
forced to inform you of the whole matter. Mr. Alleyne, some little
time before you was pleased to take him into your service, was enter-
tained and taken into the house of one Richard Holland of Twycros, an
old cook and one that sells a pot of ale, the said Mr. Alleyne being at
that time almost naked and not looked upon but rejected of all his re-
lations, but pitied by the said Richard Holland who bought for him
clothes, shirts, boots, shoes, and all other necessaries, as also finding
him meat, drink, washing, and lodging during almost a year and a half.
And in consideration of such entertainment he gave to the said Richard
Holland several notes for payment which are all discharged but two of
14/. Since you was pleased to stand for a member in Parliament for
the County of Derby, when T was to my power instrumental in sending
you votes out of Leicestershire, Mr. Alleyne sets the law at defiance,
pretending your protection as being your servant, which I cannot believe
you will grant to any person when you are informed of villainy in the
case. But before I caused him to be arrested I thought it proper to
acquaint you with the whole matter. Holland is a very poor man and
almost ready to fall upon the town for relief, which makes me trouble
you with my humble petition, hoping you will not grant him your
protection.
(1702-3), February 27. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to
Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament at the House of Commons, or at
the Office for Public Accounts, in Spring Garden, London.
When I was the other day at the adjournment of the Sessions, to
qualify Mr. Eyre, Sir Phillip Gell, Sir C. Pye, Mr. Willmott, and Mr.
Spateman for Deputies, Mr. Eyre was telling me that your tenant,
Thomas Eyre, had hanged three or four brace of bucks. I judge it will
put my Lord [of Rutland] upon the fret to do you what mischief he
can : and if you have not heard of it before, you may speak to Thomas
Bagshaw. I wrote to you some time since about an exchange of one
acre three roods of land. You do not return answer. My hope is that
you are wholly taken up, but now you will have some recess. I fear
you will lose 30/. by the miller.
22 HISTORICAL MANUSCEIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. 1702-3, March d. Michael Burton to Thomas Coke, Member of the
House of Commons at his house in St. James's Place, London.
Since my last to you I received a letter from my brother dated from
Gertrudenberg inclosed in another from one Captain John Menger who
it seems, upon Captain Dove's recommendation, lent my brother 25/. to
buy him a tent, a gold scarf and a silk one, a horse and other things.
. . . I design to return a 50/. bill to you in order to discharge my pro-
mise to the Captain, whom I will write to wait upon yon. The 25/. the
Captain is to have will make my brother's former receipts from me just
100/., part of the 200/. assigned by my father's will for his portion : and
the remainder of the 50/. bill I desire may be disposed of for him as
you in your discretion shall appoint. . . . As to the matter of Mr.
Statham I only gave you a hint to beware of him in case of any election
matter for the future. I am very well satisfied that he has been very
much pressed into my Lord H[artington]'s interest, and has had very
great matters promised him upon that account : and I knew his ambition
and avarice to be such that he could forsake his best friend to promote
them. As to my own particular ... I will only tell you he has parti-
cularly vilified me behind my back in relation to my office of justice of
the peace, and telling several persons of the great and earnest applica-
tions I made to be put into the Commission, thereby insinuating the
particular advantages I would make by the place. Should he get no
more by his profession he might put his profits in his eye. He very
frequently applies the verses in Hudibras, in relation to the justice of
the peace there, to me, and much more to the same effect. ... I
cannot but despise his reflections ; but I could not but make this upon
the matter, that the person who will endeavour so much to lessen me for
my services to you will not fail to disserve you too when it lies in his
way. . . . Honest Jeremy Pratt and I are just now drinking to
your health and prosperity.
1702-3, March 13. Lichfield. Lord Stanhope to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
. . . I wish I had a capacity answerable to the inclinations I
have of serving the present Government. But my ill state of health
and the unfortunate deafness that attends it (which you are but too well
acquainted with) must destroy all thoughts I can have of meddling with
public business. However I do think myself much ubliged to you and
your friends, for taking notice, at this time, of your most insignificant
as well as most affectionate brother.
1702-3, Maich 13. John Harpur (M.P for Derby) to [Thomas
Coke].
I am glad to hear that there's hopes of Halcyonian days ; but when
an opportunity of enjoyment is, and both parties have a liking, you
would blame the conduct of those that did not improve that moment
to their advantage : others have a prospect, if we neglect to make use
of those blessings that are in our power. If we carelessly let slip those
days that offer us happiness, and by an accident lose our moment, how
will those, who are now as industriously as ever struggling for power
and interest, despise our neglect and triumph over us. JS T ay, the very
omissions that we have been guilty of will be a warning to them not to
fall into the same errors. 'Tis insinuated by the Dissenting party
that the Parliament will be dissolved. I hear Lord H[artington], Lord
R[oos] and Sir Ch[arles Pye] are making interest : 'tis said their tools
have been long at work privately. Being now discovered, I presume
they gloss over the matter with the report of a dissolution, and though
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 23
they believe nothing of it themselves, yet they support their followers Coke MSS.
with that opinion. I have lost the favour of Mr. Alleyne, Mr. Thomas
Brookhouse, and several others in St. Whalburg's parish by delaying
the removal of Hatton, the exciseman : but most people say my interest
is better than ever, though I cannot be of that opinion unless I can
regain those gentlemen that seem disgusted. If that can be done, then
I am sure that my interest must be good. Many are out of humour
with Mr. Stanhope : how his presence may influence them I cannot
tell ; but I think he ought to make a trial how they will relish his
company.
1702-3, March 17. (Kings Newton.) Eobert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament, at the Office for Public Accounts in Spring
Garden, London.
We were to the number of 20 of your friends to wait on the Chief
Justice, and the next day Sir Nathaniel [Curzon] and about ten of
them dined with him, of which number was Mr. Curzon. John Harpur
sets out hence with Robert Wilmot on Easter Monday. 1 shall be glad
to hear Lady Mary to be well. Mr. Pole lost his cause yesterday with
Mr. Meynell of Langley to his great grief ; and I suppose does not like
Trevor. Mr. Meynell told me he was pallidus ira, when the judge
summed up the evidence. My Lord of Rutland has given Thomas
Eyre of Kouter such an affront, as he did Sir Phillip Grell, and Thomas
says he only wants youth to fight him. Mr. Chaworth is extremely
obliged to you. Dr. Coke told me he saw your cousin Kate Stanhope
in Yorkshire, who says the quakers are all either fools, or knaves, or
mad. I shall not scud to Northampton fair, being advised to depend
rather on Derby and Ashborne.
1702-3, March 17. P. Chaworth to Mr. Caldecott, Woollen Draper at
the Corner Shop, Salisbury Court in Fleet Street. London.
Pray tomorrow let me have a letter and the Postman, directed to
me as your letters are, by Dyer, or any body you think as good. Let
the Postboy too be sent at the same time, and so continued, both within
the letter. Pray do you go along with the man that sends me the
news to one Mr. Coke, Parliament man for Derbyshire, and he'll direct
you the surest way for my letters coming safe that is, he'll direct them.
You must know he is one of the Commissioners for taxing the Public
Accounts, which if they at the Post Office presume to strike out his
frank, he'll know the reason with a witness to 'em. He lives at a
House in St. James's Place. I writ him word this post that I would
send you and my newswriter to wait of him tomorrow with a letter to
frank ; and pray don't fail, for he expects you. And I leave it alto-
gether to you to please me in an Intelligencer, for I know their terms
without any more ado. Whatever prints he and you think best, pray
send, and begin on Saturday next. In the interim I am yours.
1703, April 5. Lichfield. Lord Stanhope to Thomas Coke, M.P.
I wish you much joy of your daughter, aud take it very kindly that
you and my sister are pleased to think of me for a godfather to my
little niece. Since I am not in town I desire you would make choice
of whom you please to represent me. . . . Tomorrow morning I
begin my journey to Wing, where I hope to be upon Thursday. Pray
distribute five guineas for me among the caudle makers.
^ (1703, April.) Lichfield. Lord Stanhope to Thomas Coke, M.P., at
St. James's Place, London.
This is to wish you much joy of your daughter. ... I believe I
might have had a nephew, had it not been prevented by the pernicious
24 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
ComMSS. influence of too many cucumbers. Wnlmisley 13 the same man you left
him : and has got such witnesses as came against Baker, to swear
several misdemeanors as riots and those things against the gentlemen
that came to the election. He goes to London tomorrow, and how he
will proceed against me is left to his own discretion. However since
he will not learn better manners, if you can get him flung out of the
House, it will be no small satisfaction to your most affectionate brother
and humble servant.
1703, May 18. Willow Walk, near Chelsey. Francis Burdett to
Thomas Coke.
. . . My occasions are so very urgent that I expect every day to be
utterly ruined if I have not some very speedy relief from you. Our
cause is a family cause, and though Sir Robert hath got both the
honour and the estate, yet I hope I inherit the justice and honesty of
my father, whose name I bear. [ earnestly entreat you to consider that
if Sir Robert ever intends to be just to me, these delays will all return
upon him to make good the damages I sustain and the suffering I
undergo. My case is very sad in all particulars. I am not capable of
stirring abroad to wait on you, or attend to my other affairs which now
entirely run to ruin, but upon Sunday which I ought to employ for the
benefit of my soul. Be pleased to expedite this affair, which you have
so generously espoused, and appoint me some time tomorrow, where I
may wait upon you in a place of security.
1703, June o. Camp of Handow (?). Thomas Burton to Thomas
Coke.
I am now in low station from fitting myself out for the campaign
and depending on the money which you sent me word my brother
would pay you for to send me by our officers when they came over :
but they have none for me. I suppose he thinks I am here to be killed,
so will let me have nothing. But, Sir, for the care and love I have for
you, whilst I can bear a sword in my hand I will venture for you. If
it was not for the encouragement you give me I should have been in a
very low condition. If they will but let me have what my father left
me, and lend me some small matter : for 350/. I can buy a company, I
would pay it in two years time. We have hard duty two nights in
bed in the week. We have no news here in the Camp, but lie the two
armies in two leagues of one another. Now and then small parties
meet ; it is discoursed for to take Huy and Namur.
1703, June 13. Bath. Lady Mary Coke to Thomas Coke, M.P.
I just now received my dear's kind letter, and the assurance of
your being safely arrived at your journey's end was a great pleasure
to me for I was in great concern for fear of the waters
These two days past I have had two violent fits of the cholic,
indeed as severe as any at London. In the last 1 took laudanum,
which shortened it very much. ... I own a fit casts me down
very much, for fear of a continuance, which besides an uneasy life
to myself, must make me troublesome to every body else. I was so
well when I writ to you last, that I went to a play with Lady Bella-
mont, which was very dull : but in a day after I kept house, and have
not been out since. Though we do not want for invitations to balls.
My Lord and Lady Dalkeith made the last : my sisters went to it. On
Monday Lord Chomley makes one, and after that Lord Manchester one.
Doctor Ratcliffe is so well to go to the pump every day. I think to beg
his advice privately; for they say he gives out he will not advise any-
body, being he comes for his own health. . . .
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 25
1703, June 23. Bath. Lady Mary Coke to Thomas Coke, Member Coke mss.
of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place, London.
. . . Having missed the cholic since Friday I do not think of
troubling Dr. Ratcliff, for I am afraid for such desperate pain there is
no remedy but laudanum and the waters, which agree extremely with
me in other respects. Lady Athelstone came here on Saturday . . .
she is in my eye much the handsomest face I have seen here. I have
raffled once with my Lady Hare, but won nothing. Mr. Fisher says
he will take care to furnish Ellen with money for the house ; and I
hope my dear will not be wanting in ordering the months bills may be
paid constantly. My father gave me an account of Sir William's
death ; and that he left him Shelford, which was his own. For sister
Katherine, I believe if she lives she will have her thousand pounds, but
three hundred now would have been more acceptable. This morning
as I was dressing I began to have the cholic : and though I had taken a
quart of waters at 7 in the morning, and this began at 1 1, I sent for
two quarts more, and drank them off as fast as I could, and I thank
God it put off the fit. I hope it will do me no hurt.
(1703), June 26. Bath. Lady Mary Coke to Thomas Coke,
Member of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place, London.
I can assure you my dear that T have not any one post since I saw
you refused myself the pleasure of writing to you, and therefore I am
surprised you do not receive them. I have constantly received yours,
only sometimes later than the other letters in the town. As for my
health, thank God, I think it better than it was. I writ you word how
I had tried last Wednesday, in a fit, two quarts of these waters besides
the first I had taken in the morning. It put off the fit, but at night it
began to return, though very gently : though for fear of the worst I
took ten drops of my laudanum, and I thank God since I have con-
tinued pretty well. . . . Since this was begun a fit of the cholic has
taken me, at first pretty severely, but taking one quart of the water,
thank God, it went off in an hour and a half. Doctor Ratcliff is just
gone from me, and says I have a distemper that is the hardest to cure,
but that here is my only remedy, and he believes them admirable : to-
night he will have me take laudanum pills, and soon other prescriptions.
I dread my stay here if I follow his order.
1703, June 30. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke,
MJ>.
. . . I have found great benefit by Dr. Coke's assistance, and by
entering into a course of steel, for it has almost taken away all my
yellowness. As to your news I could not read it without smiling, for
it seems almost incredible that a General should run away at the
same time that his army was victorious. But I will not detain you
with my commenting on so extraordinary a text.
1703, August 9. O. S. The Camp before Huy. Hans Hamilton
to Thomas Coke, in St. James's Place.
I had the honour of a letter from you by your two Northern friends
(who may depend on all the service I am capable of showing them) . .
. . the hopes of finding news worth the knowing, as the taking of
Antwerp or Ostend (which must have been welcome to St. Stephen's
Chapel) was the real cause of my silence. And now failing on that
side by reason of the impossibility of attacking the lines drawn before
them, backed with an army equal in numbers, we are forced to turn our
designs on this place. 'Twill keep us about ten days after our batteries
oegin to play, which will be on Tuesday morning next. From hence
26 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke 3ISS. we intend for Limbourg, like Chymists that miss of the Philosopher's
Stone, but make discoveries equivalent to the great arcanum they aimed
at. Though we did not succeed in our first attempts and designs, yet
these petty towns are not of less advantage, for the security of Liege,
shortening our communications with the Rhine, and facilitating the
siege of Namur, whenever we shall think fit to undertake it. Your
two friends, if I mistake not, have had a surfeit of our trade already :
and I believe, as soon as we are masters of this place, resolve to make
the best of their way to Derbyshire, where I begin to wish myself too :
for I never saw so fatiguing a campaign. And therefore I hope 'twill
the sooner end, and then I shall the sooner be able to tell you myself
that nobody is more, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant.
1703, August 27. N. S. Camp before Huy. Captain Richard
Pope to Thomas Coke.
I have not before this given you the trouble of a letter, we having
done nothing this campaign but march and countermarch, to very little
purpose as I conceive ; it ending in the siege of this place, which we
nave been nine days before, trenches opened, but the batteries were not
ready till "Wednesday last. It was surrendered yesterday morning, the
garrison to remain prisoners of war. We have had yesterday and to-
' day great councils of war, in which I am told there is nothing yet
determined. Some are for Limburg, others for attacking the lines near
Bonef, and some for going to Namur : but I fear the last is too great
an undertaking for the remaining part of the summer. We expect to
go for Portugal, the Duke of Schomburg as Ave hear having desired, it
of her Majesty : but I find my Lord Duke of Marlborough is not
willing to part with an English horse out of this country. If the regi-
ment stays here I propose to myself the happiness this winter of kissing
your hands in England, and assuring you how much I am your most
obedient humble servant.
1703, September 24. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas
Coke, M.P., at his house in Park Place nigh St. James's.
I am to ask your pardon for being so long indebted to you for your
last favour, with the inclosed reasons for attacking the French lines. I
am inclined to think that the Duke of Marlborough procured the sign-
ing and the publishing of those reasons, not only to justify himself to
the world for not fighting, but also by laying the blame upon the States
to make a querelle d'Allemand with them, which will be an honourable
excuse for his Lordship's quitting of the service the next year. . . .
1703, October 4. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
Your last favour brought me the reasons of the Dutch Generals
against fighting, but, as you say, the best reason is not mentioned by
them, which was the private commands of the States for the contrary.
And it has a long time been a maxim amongst them not to exasperate
their enemies by bloody battles in hopes of conquest, but rather to
secure what they have, and expect an advantageous peace.
1703, October 19. Ham. J. Port to the Hble. Thomas Cocke,
Esq.
Having formerly given you some trouble in the affair betwixt the
Vicar of Ham and myself, I hope you will not refuse me your assist-
ance in it, now there is some prospect of bringing it to an issue this
term, he having preferred a bill against me before the Lord Keeper.
The question is whether a clergyman is in equity obliged to keep a
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION, 27
solemn promise or no, for I look upon a bond of resignation to be such. Coke HSS.
Indeed some of our Bishops think their brethren the clergy lie under
no obligations of promises or gratitude, as may be seen in Sir John
Packington's case, as well as mine : for our Bishop (as Mr. Sterndale
sets forth in hi* bill) refuses to receive his resignation, and so invali-
dates the judgment I have obtained against him at common law ; which
in my opinion looks so much like knavery and combination, that I
cannot but hope a Court of Equity will relieve me. However a3 I am
informed, it will appear simony in him, and so the presentation go to
my Lord Keeper, which makes me desire you will use your interest
with the Lord Keeper to gain the presentation for a son of Mr. Ensor's,
in case it lapses to him, and to determine the affair this term. They
have already put me to a great deal of charge in the Exchequer, where
they have had me three or four years, and when it was come to an
issue there, they removed it into the Chancery, as a more dilatory
Court. For his attorney declares, if he will but furnish him with
money, he will make me weary of the suit : and the parson brags that his
brethren will not let him want that, in order to carry on the common
cause, as they call it. I know not what they mean by it, but I think
it very plain by their proceedings that they are more inclined to betray the
religion and interest of their country than the nobility and gentry ever
were.
[Indorsed by Mr. Coke "to speak to the Lord Keeper."]
1703, November 13. Leicester. At the One Crane Inn. Francis
Petty to Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament, at the Commission of
Accounts Office, Spring Garden, London.
I am still at Leicester and am obliged to stay till the 25th because
there is no place to be had in the London coach before. Lord Searsdale
supped and lay at the Crane one night. I owned I had the honour to
know you a little. I think I shall effectually perform my commission
with Mr. Willson, whom I find a gentleman of nice honour, yet is pleased
to hear reason from me, the only messenger he liked. I have not found
one fool in this country. They answer all concisely Yes No Can't
tell Indifferent : sharp witted, very gallant sell their wives for
what one that likes her will give. Their whole endeavour is outwitting
each other in bargaining : diffident of themselves, they mistrust strangers
extremely. I am forced to tell my business in the market, at least
enough to let them know I do not come to steal their hearts or effects.
I have diverted myself as I could hitherto, but want a bill of 5/. more,
to be returned by Mr. John Campbell at the Three Crowns in the
Strand. If you, Sir, would give a note to your tenant John Higgon
who is well known to Mr. Robert Bass, Innkeeper, at the One Crane
at Leicester to pay him 5/., I would return it to you, as soon as in
London ; that I might make the best of my way home before the rains
fall to raise the waters. For God's sake, one word of news : say some-
thing to make me endure this place a week or ten days more, for Mr.
Willson has appointed me another meeting here. Lord Scarsdale's
nephew said the Marquis of Hartington is drowning Derbyshire with
usquebaugh. You will smile to hear the many perils I had courage to go
through.
1703, November 22. Francis Petty to Thomas Cooke, in St. James's
Place.
You desired of me the journal of my Leicestershire journey. The
most remarkable thing I have met with was in the chimney nook at the
One Crane, wherein I chanced to ineot with honest John Edwin, a
sufficient tenant of yours at Baggrave Hall, who tells me you are an
28 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION
Cokb MSS. excellent landlord, and do him the honour in passing to stop at his
house : and that you shot a hare once an hour before dinner, which
being on the spit was restored new on Lady Mary's coining in. The
men of this country are very concise in all they say yes no and
indifferent &c. I have done all that can be done in my business. Mr.
Willson and I are agreed I stand by an English gentleman that has
honour. I want Scotch bills from Edinbrough, and am, I think,
prisoner at large in Leicester : but wherever [ am, I am always Sir
your obliged and humble servant.
1703, November 29. Coten Hill, Salop. Mrs. Alice Pope to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place,
London.
I suppose you have heard of my son being taken ill at the siege of
Huy, and with the ill fortune he had in his return from the Bath in
Germany, though he had a passport from the Marshal Villeroy. He
seems doubtful of recovering his loss, and also of his coming into
England this winter, which he designed and which would be a very
great satisfaction to me to see him once more. And I do beg the
favour of your assistance. He says all the Captains endeavour to come
home, and there must but two.
(1704, the beginning of.) London. John Coke to Thomas Coke.
I carried George along with me to see my Lord Nottingham's chaise,
Lord Lovelace's and Colonel Grimes's. They are all hung on shafts.
The first is the lightest, but I fear the carriage is too slight to travel
in bad roads. The bodies of the two first are alike, after the Italian
manner to fall back : they differ only in the curtains. My Lord Not-
tingham's is hung upon two very short iron standards, which play a
little. My Lord Lovelace's is upon a piece of wood which plays a
good deal, and must be easier; but then it must be more apt to break.
Colonel Grimes's is much heavier than the other two, and stronger : it
was designed for travelling, and has held very well, for it has been
twice in Westmorland, once in Scotland ; yet it is so light that a pair
of horses in summer time drew in five days from London to Weenies.
The body of this chaise is in the nature of a calesh : it is hung as my
Lord Lovelace's. The crane-necked carriage at the coachmakers is as
short as any of these. On it you must fix the portmanteau behind; on
the others you may place it very conveniently before. If you think fit
I will make the coachmaker view the two first chaises mentioned, and
he may make you a new one with all the conveniences and none of the
faults of both, if there be any. I desire you will send your directions
by the coach tomorrow : if I hear nothing to the contrary from you, I
will not put a stop to the fitting of the crane-necked carriage : I desire
you would write whether you would have the chaise made so strong as
to bear travelling at all times of the year, or only to take the air and
travel short journeys in summer. My sisters and Misses give their
duty and service to you.
1703-4, January 5. Amington. Ed. Eepington to Thomas Coke.
. . . On Friday last I came from my Lord Stanhope's, when your
health Was often drunk in wine that I am sure tasted as well upon it,
as if the most celebrated toast had been mentioned. The players were
there [Lichfield], I should have said strollers, to whom the C. of H.
made a visit every night, and the rest of the Cathedral beauties of the
place. Will. Inge is worse than married, for he comes near none of his
friends, spends his whole time with his dulcinea, and can rind nothing
entertaining but her conversation. By then he has been coupled to her
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 29
a month, I don't doubt but the pretence of business will make him a Coke mss.
better neighbour. Poetry and our pockets are at a low ebb in these
parts. We have neither wine to raise our fancies, nor navigable rivers,
nor passable roads to convey our commodities when they may take a
price. And I'm afraid, unless some care be taken of the better dispo-
sition of them, that these midland counties will in a short time lie under
greater hardships. Young Robert Burdet has been with me today,
who says his father is perfectly recovered, and on Friday next goes ten
miles before he throws off his hounds. The young gentleman is coming
to town, for I do suppose he can find no occasional mistress for his
purpose in the country.
1703-4, January 13. For the use of two rooms and staircase in deep
mourning and hall with a border for six months, 20/.
1703-4, January 17. A paper headed " The following particulars
were performed by James King, Herald Painter, for the funeral of the
Lady Mai*y Coke."
s. d.
For two Pennons wrought on crimson silk - 5
For 12 Shields at 3*. per piece - - 1 16
For 12 Escotcheons in buckram at 2s. per piece 14
8
1703-4, January 22. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke.
Since I find that I have not strength enough of mind (on this occa-
sion) to come to you as I ought, permit me to make use of this means
to express the high sense T have of all the kindness that you showed to
my poor daughter ; and to assure you that though she is gone, I shall
always embrace your interest as my own, and value the two poor
infants that she has left as a tie of our inviolable friendship. I ought
also to wait upon the ladies your sisters, and to say more to them than
I am able to express for their transcendant favours to her who is gone
during all her illness. But these thoughts do so tear my soul that I
must crave some time to be allowed me before I can speak calmly after
such a storm, that has disordered my remaining life, and made me lose all
the comfort and joy that remained to an old man, who is your most
affectionate father and very unfortunate servant.
1703-4, January 22. Mansfield. C. Stanhope to Thomas Coke.
Were I as capable to express my real sorrow for your late misfortune
as I am deeply sensible of it, I am sure I should stand in the first rank
of the most sineei*e condolers. For which I could advance many reasons
did not this mournful conjuncture forbid me to aggravate your grief by
mentioning the merits of its subject. Be pleased Sir to accept my
hearty wishes for your consolatory support under so weighty and
exquisite a pressure, with which all your relations must needs be affected
with a pungent share ; and so in particular is, Sir, your affectionate
kinsman and very humble servant.
(1703-4, January.) Holmesfield. Michael Burton to Thomas Coke.
, I. must not be silent and not acquaint with some stories that have
been industriously spread in this county relating to you. One is that you
voted against the Bill to prevent Occasional Conformity. . . . Mr.
Spateman in all companies boasted of the thing, and drunk your health,
saying he would never vote against you for the future. This sort of
discourse gave a mighty shock to your friends, who speak of it to me
Coke MSS.
30 HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
with great concern. I think two words from yourself that I might
show them would effectually justify you. The other matter is a con-
trived story to create a misunderstanding between Mr. Curzon and you,
to break your interest if possible. 'Tis a report that Mr. Curzon will
stand no longer for the county, and that you design to join my Lord
Hartington's interest next election. This story came to me from my
cousin Ellis Farn worth who told me he had it from Mr. Walker, Minister
at St. Warburg's in Derby, who said it had been told at Kedleston and
had caused some uneasiness there. I suppose this a shaft out of your
friend Gisbourne's quiver. 'Twould be presumption in me to prescribe
anything to you for clearing this point. What Sir Philip Gell has
said and done in this matter you'll receive an account of from my dear
friend Capt. Beresford. My brother is with me. He goes on pretty
successfully with his levies. He believes his Captain, Trevanion, will
part with his commission, and that he could have it for 300 guineas.
Now if his Colonel, my Lord North, could be prevailed with to give
my brother leave to sell his Ensign's commission, I believe, it being a
standing regiment, I can help him to 100/. for it : and then I have
about 70/. of his in my hands, and will make it up 100/. : and will give
security with him for the remaining 100/. I am very sensible your
friendship will be of the greatest importance to him in this affair. Dear
Jemmy Trott is now with me drinking your health. I have by the
Chesterfield carrier sent you a small present of two brace of Holmes-
field fowl, and I hope they will come safe to you. 'Twas but late last
night I heard of your great loss of my Lady Mary, which I am extremely
concerned at. Sir, I heartily wish you health and happiness. Pray
direct for me by Chesterfield bagg ; for the last letter I had from you
coming by Sheffield bagg was almost two months before I received it.
1703-4, February 2. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke.
I have got your dog from Mr. Cocks. He tells Mr. Eolleston that
he sets partridge well, and lies for the net ; and if you shoot before
him, he will lie. If he spring, you must beat him, and keep him
humble and tied up. I found him in several stories about him last
year, which made me send to you that Mr. Eolleston might try him :
however he being very poor I would not give him occasion to clamour
for want of the two guineas. I have no judgment in decoys; but if
any that had saw your pool in Gorsty Leys, I fancy it would make a
very good one, being ready planted, rightly situated for privacy, and
very convenient for Sinfin Moor, and has been full of fowl all winter,
and is a noble length of water. The messenger that went for him (the
dog) tells me he saw Mr. Cocks take nine partridge with him this
1st of February. The dog sprung others, and is too eager : so that if
he points, you must check him a little at first, to take heed. Mr.
Cocks told him, it was only that he had not been abroad of a fortnight.
1703-4, February 16. London. -W. Stratford to Thomas Coke.
. . . The Bill for disposing of the First Fruits is brought in. It
will answer all your friend can desire. There is a clause in it to enable
the Corporation to receive any charities, impropriations or others, and
to settle and dispose them according to the directions of the donor. . .
. . Colonel Cadogan was left by my Lord Marlborough to finish
some business, but he is expected here within a week and the wine will
come with him. I expect too by every post the bill of lading of the other
wine, which Mr. Fern promised to take care of. I desire you would
be pleased to send me a letter to Mr. Fern, open and without date, that
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 31
I may put the bill of lading into it . . . lest the -wine should be seized Coke mss.
before he is instructed how to lake care of it. I have ordered the
hampers to be directed to John Thompson. Would you please to have
any champagne wine ? I can help you to some of the last vintage but
one, which 1 am assured is very good, at a very low rate. I am very
sorry for your letter to the Speaker. But if you resolve to give over
business, I am sure company is more necessary for you. And I hope
you will be pleased to grant that to your friends' importunity which
you deny to your own health, to visit them at the least sometimes here.
As soon as ever my attendance on the House will give me leave, I will
take the first opportunity of paying to you that respect and duty which
is on many accounts due to you from your most obliged obedient ser-
vant. The champagne was designed for my Lord Marlborough : when
1 see you, you shall know the history of it.
(1703-4.) March 6. Chelmsford. Captain Kichard Pope to
Thomas Coke, at his house in St. James's Place, London.
I am infinitely obliged to you for the favour you did me in speaking
to my Lord Duke, and beg you will remember to give it in writing,
as you mention his Grace desires. I shall go tomorrow to Colchester,
and stay there with the recruits of our regiment, till our embarkation,
which 1 hear is put off for some time, till more men of war can be got
ready, the Dunkirk squadron being at sea : but I suppose you know
more of this than I do.
1703-4, March 23. London. Robert Jennens to Thomas Coke at
Melbourne.
I hope you'll excuse my not waiting on you at Hampton Court. Your
wine is come safe and sent home. I would not get a bill of store for it,
but had it entered at as moderate a rate as possible : the whole charge
freight included comes to 3/. 8*. I should be glad to hear of your being
got home safe : I fear the rains may stop you on your way. Harry St.
Johns tells me he has wrote you this post ; I suppose he has sent you
the Lords' opinions of the Scotch Plot. Other news we have none.
1703, April 1. Gertrudenborg. Thomas Burton to [Michael
Burton].
I have heard that my father is dead. I sent several letters which I
hope that you gave him. I am very much concerned that I did not see
him, but 1 may thank my mother for it. God forgive her. I hope you
will let me hear how things are settled, and the will. I hope my
father has been kind to me. If he had lived to have seen me in England,
he had been vindicated of me by my behaviour, and the officers of the
army, that know my character. She will be a little humble: she will
not give herself the airs she has done : but God preserve her. I hope
you will not forget your promise, when I gave you a note for 40/., you
said that if you heard well of me, you would forgive me. ... I
think I shall have occasion to buy a Captain's commission for little, in
this regiment. . . We are very busy exercising, and expect to march.
Love to your wife, sister Prew, and sister Betty.
1703, April 1. Gertrudenborg. Thomas Burton to Thomas Coke.
I send this to acquaint you I received yours of the 20th. I desire the
favour to pay Capt. Dawes the 30/. : I consulted with him what I must
have, and after this my pay will serve. Sir, I desire to know if I can
buy a Captain's commission in this regiment, which I think I can for
300/., if it falls out. I am sure your interest will do in it. I know not
what my fortune is, so pray write to my brother. We have had a great
32 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. vacancies in the regiment of Lieutenant. The eldest was to get first,
but my Lord North says the best interest and you are made. I am
eldest ensign but three. I hope when I have occasion you will be my
friend. As for bearing a Captain's commission I am capable, for I have
commanded a company this five months.
(1703-4). London. Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke, at Mr. Snape's
house at Hampton Court.
Yesterday Monsieur de Prepetit's wife brought hither two manu-
scripts : she left word that if you would employ him further, he had
copies that he could go on. I can't forbear telling you of a disaster that
happened yesterday in the House of Lords to my Lord Ferrers, which
my Lady Carnarvon sent us word of, though my Lady said my Lord
Carnarvon was not by, himself, but she had it from good hands. There
was a Committee of Lords upon the examining into the Scotch Plot, and
there was a letter brought into the House directed to my Lord Ferrers,
which my Lord told the House might be something relating to the Plot,
and asked whether it should be read by the House, which after a debate
upon it was ordered to be done. It proved a very scurrilous lampoon
upon the A. and several Lords by name : his own name was not one,
but my Lord in a great passion flung it immediately into the fire. My
Lady Catherine Stanhope was with us yesterday : she is now pretty
well. She said a great deal to us upon a present you had sent her.
She sent me two diamond crosses for earrings. I believe you remember
there was some little agreement once between the crosses and my Lord
Ascote's picture : my Lady was very earnest about them, so they
remain with me, till I see you, or have your orders about them.
1704, April 3. The Duke of Marlborough to Thomas Coke, M.P.
Sir, I could not leave England with any ease to my own mind till I
had turn'd my thoughts to every thing that is possible for placing you
in the Queen's service to your satisfaction and though 1 have noe
immediate prospect of the vacancy of soe good an employment as you
may reasonable expect, I have mentioned three to her Majesty for her
favour to#you, if any one of them should drop. My Lord Treasurer
will give you a more particular account of this matter, and serve you
with the same zeal and readiness which you shall always find from,
Sir, your most obedient humble servant.
1704, April 6. London. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
Just as I received your letter I was sitting down to write to you
how gracious the Lords had been at last in giving the Queen leave to
prorogue us. I won't trouble you with an account of their addresses
and the Queen's answers, because they appear in print : but that which
doth not is that she received them with a great deal of coldness and
scorn. My cousin St. John kissed the Queen's hand for Secretary of
War two days ago : but though 'tis denied and kept secret from me,
yet I question not but 'tis no news to you. I hope the business that
brings you up to town again is something of the same nature. . . .
Mr. Gilbert is provided for with the Queen's letter in the ''Tilbury."
1704, April 7. Harwich. A. Cardonnel to Thomas Coke, at
Melbourne in Derbyshire, by Loughborough bag.
I believe I need not acquaint you that Mr. Trot is to have a company
in the Earl of Orrory, or the Lord Henry Scot's regiment. He will do
well to attend the Duke of Ormond for his commission. I have already
told Mr. Baresford that he will have a lieutenancy in an old corps
abroad, where I should be heartily glad to receive your commands.
His Grace designs to embark this morning for Holland.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 33
1704, April 8. London. William Stratford to Thomas Coke, at CokeMSs.
Mr. Burdetts, at Knowle Hills in Darbyshire.
The Calcavella was mingled according to your order with the
Champagne. I received all the other wine and have in my cellar for
you about 15 dozen of that which I believe will please you. Your
orders with relation to Portugal are obeyed : and I have now received
the Aldus Tully and Vasari. At last we are up, and we have a little
time to breathe in. The Lords Papers swarm very thick. You in
the country can judge best what effect they have. Resentments were
pretty warm at parting, but I hope they may cool a little upon fresh
country air. My Lord Romney died this morning of the small pox.
My Lord Stawel is to succeed my Lord Longvile in the Bed Chamber
to the Prince. Mr. Blaithwait is out of the Office of War, and is to
be succeeded by Mr. St. John. That is not yet owned, but will be, I
suppose, when my Lord Treasurer returns from Newmarket. No mail
yet from Lisbon : all conclude the. packet boat is taken. Four mails
came in today from Holland. Nothing material, but that the
Emperor's forces have obtained a considerable victory over the Hun-
garians. In Holland, as well as here, this is looked upon as ill news ;
and they are afraid this success may dispose the Emperor to refuse
what is demanded.
1704, April 8. Comptroll Office. Henry Cartwright to [Thomas
Coke].
Last post I inclosed a letter to you from his Grace the Duke of Marl-
borough. I directed to Derby, to be sent to you by the postmaster. I
hope you have got it, for I believe it to be a letter of consequence. His
Grace gave such a particular charge of it, and desired to have an ac-
count by the first opportunity of your receipt of it. I hope that letter
will give me the happiness of seeing you soon in town. I beg your
commands, and nobody shall obey with more pleasure and fidelity than
your most humble and most obedient servant.
(1704), April 9. Bois le Due. Captain Richard Pope to Thomas
Coke, at his house in St. James's Place, London.
After having met with a violent storm (for of late years I can never
go to sea with horses, without finding some such thing) in which we
had our sails blown away, and sprung a leak, which kept us to the
exercise of continual pumping, and one of our guns broke loose, and
had like to have overset the ship, for they were in a condition to do
nobody any harm but ourselves, and with the loss of eighteen horses of
the regiment, we arrived the 22nd O. S. at Williamstat, having run
more dangers than a man need do in the horse service in several cam-
paigns, if we are not more bloody-minded than we have been. I got
here last night when I met your letter, which was the greatest satis-
faction I found since I left London. I hear Mr. St. Johns is to succeed
W. B. . . . t, which I am doubly rejoiced at that we shall have a mau
of so good sense and manners to apply ourselves to, when affairs require
it, and, secondly, that we shall get rid of a drag that always did us
harm whenever it was in his power.
1704, April 10. Knowlhills. Thomas Coke, M.P., to the Duke of
Marlborough. [Draft.]
My Lord, I received your Grace's of the 3rd instant and with it new
instances of your favour to mee in continuing me in your thoughts
with many obligations I shall never forgett, and whenever her Majesty
pleases to think me worthy of the honour of serving her, I shall alhvaya
acknowledge how much 1 ow that favour to your Grace's recommen-
U 58973. f!
34 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. dation of me to her. I did not hear the time your Grace intended to
goe for Holland, till I heard you were embarqued, and therefore I hope
a prosperous voyage has prevented my wishes and landed you safe in
Holland, and be the good omen of that happy success that every well
wisher hopes will attend you this campaigne and att all times in every-
thing you undertake, and which is wished by no one more sincerely
than by your Grace's most oblidged and obedient humble servant to
command.
1704, April 13. Comptroll Office, Whitehall. Henry Cartwright to
[Thomas Coke].
I am to acquaint you that a gentleman you recommended to the Duke
of Marlborough has had the misfortune to be very ill represented to his
Grace, who told Mr. Whitfield that he depended upon your recommen-
dation, and nothing should balance it, for he would provide for the
gentleman as you desired. . . . Rather than be the occasion of
any debate amongst friends, I would relinquish all pretentions, and
shall be satisfied until I have the honour of seeing you. Last night
Mr. Duncombe the Comptroller died of the small pox. I heartily
lament the loss. As soon as I heard it, I waited upon Mr. St. John,
who told me as a friend he hoped your affair was concluded. ... I
may presume to say it would be to the satisfaction of the Duke and
Lord Treasurer, and I don't doubt but you may have it upon your own
terms as to salary and powers.
1704, April 15. London. Robert Jennens to Thomas Coke, at
Melbourne.
I am just returned from Newmarket, where I was sorry I could not
have your company, as you once designed. We had a great many
matches, but few good ones. My Lord Lindsey won the plate, and my
Lord Kingston most of the money. Your antagonist, my Lord Granby,
a great sufferer, and I believe a greater will be, for he obstinately
persists in his measures there, which are as wrong as those in some
other of his affairs. We have had a great deal of fine weather which
makes that place exceed all others. There's another meeting begins
the 2nd May. Our old Groom of the Stole, Lord Romney's dead. He
has left almost all his estate which is computed at about 40,000/. to
Jack Sydney, a pretty competency to support the rake. I was glad to
find from yours that no ill accident happened to you on your journey: the
badness of the weather gave me apprehensions. I hope by this you
think of a return, for good company begins to grow scarce.
1704, April 18. London. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas
Coke, M.P.
I hope that this fine weather has diverted you in the country : and if
solitude has any charms you cannot want them at Knowll Hills. This
night my old acquaintance the Lord Rumny is to be buried, in whom
I do think that I have lost a true friend, which is a thing seldom
recovered at my age. The town is extremely hot and dusty, and many
persons are sick of the small pox, and therefore except you have great
business in town, I could wish you would defer your coming to it. The
Lord Weymouth was with me yesterday, and told me you were made one
of the Commissioners for the Plantations, which his lordship says that he
is very glad of, because he shall have your company and assistance in
these affairs. I told him that I had not heard you mention it, and
knew nothing of it.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 35
1704, April 18. Comptroll Office, Whitehall. Henry Cartwright Cokb MSS.
to Thomas Coke.
I have writ to Mr. Whitfield for the name of the gentleman you
recommended, and will send it by next. I may presume to say his
Grace believed what was said to the prejudice of the gentleman to be
the effect of malice or ignorance. 1 am extremely concerned that
you decline the Comptroll : but if the being easy with the Surveyor
bears any weight in the objection, you may depend upon it that your
pleasure will always be a law with Sir Jos h, I assure you nobody
desires this more than Sir Jos h. My Lord Treasurer will do nothing
in this till he hears from the Duke.
1704, April 20. London. James Craggs to Thomas Coke.
. . . I waited upon my Lord Duke to Harwich, -when he com-
manded me to assure you of his hearty service. . . . And now give
me leave to tell you I write this by the command of my Lord Treasurer,
of which I must beg you to please to take no other notice than by
letting me know your sentiments and commands upon the ensuing
matter, if you shall so think fit. His Lordship says that both him-
self and Duke Marlborough have for a great while thought them-
selves obliged to omit no occasion of distinguishing the regard they
have for you : and though they have had several views to that purpose,
yet no opportunity has hitherto happened to express it so effectually
as they could wish; and therefore would let no occasion happen that
might not at least express their desires to serve you. And though
what has now happened may not be worthy your consideration, yet my
Lord Treasurer does not think fit to propose any person to her Majesty,
till you were first acquainted with it. You must have heard that Mr.
Duncombe of Battlesdown, who was one of the Controllers of the Army,
is dead : and indeed I think Sir Joseph Tredenham cannot be many weeks
after him, . . . whose death would make it very worthy any one man's
acceptance. And therefore my Lord Treasurer proposes that if you can
think of accepting Mr. Buncombe's vacancy, the whole will devolve upon
you, when it falls ; which will otherways be kept in commission, as it is
now. I believe it does not require muoh trouble, and I believe may be
made both useful and ea<y with the army ; and being established must
continue in peace as well as Avar, as well as the Paymaster and Secretary
of War does. All your friends are well, and drank your health the other
day.
(1704, April 20), Thursday night. London. James Craggs to the
Honble. Thomas Coke, at his house in St. James's Place.
This only comes to desire you will be pleased to take no notice to any-
body of what happened about the Controllership of the Army : and I
will give you good reasons for my request when I see you.
1704, April 22. London. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
. . . On Thursday night my Lord Nottingham brought the seals to
the Queen, but she would not accept them : he pressed her Majesty
thrice to receive them, and at last said (as I am told) he would not sur-
prise her Majesty, but would keep them a day or two longer, till she had
had time to think of some other to bestow them on, but in the meantime
would make no use of them. 'Tis generally said Sir W. Trumball will
succeed him. My Lord Kingston to be Lord Chamberlain, and Tom
Mansell to succeed Sir Edward Seymour. My cousin St. John hath
begun to execute his office.
c 2
36 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. 1704, April 23. Knowlhills. Thomas Coke, M.P., to [James
Craggs ?]
With the first opportunity I return you my thanks for yours of
the 20th instant, for which I am very much oblidged to you, for it
brought me fresh instances of my Lord Duke's kindness, of which I have
received so many allready that I should be very ungratefull to doubt of
it, and begg the favour of you the first opportunity you have to present
my most humble service to his Grace and to lett him know how ex-
treamly I am indebted to him for his many favours. And the same
service I desire you will do me to my Lord Treasurer, with my
particular thanks for the favour therein mentioned : in relation to which
I can onely say I should be proud of any employment in which my
Lord Treasurer shall think me fitt to serve the Queen, but I am sensible
I can be of no service to her Majesty by acting in conjunction with any-
body in the commission you mention. But if Sir Joseph Tredenham's
condition should take him from that employment, and my Lord Treasurer
think it for the Queen's service it should be executed by a single person,
I should think myself very happy that my Lord Treasurer should
recomend me to the Queen, and be very much oblidged, if accepted. In
the meantime I hope my Lord Treasurer will not take ill my declining
to be joined with anybody in the commission mentioned in yours
1704, April 25. Thomas Burton to Thomas Coke at Melbourn.
Since I saw you I have bought me a captain's commission of the Lieut. -
Coronall in our regiment, and made it my interest to have mine Ensign
commission for my cousin Burton. I hope to be in Holland, if the wind
serves, on Friday come seven nights, to present my cousin to the
regiment. My Lord is very kind to me on your account. I have
received the 25/., but not that of Captain Mounger. I have discharged
all your and mine remainder of my fortune to my brother.
1704, April 27. London. James Craggs to Thomas Coke.
I had the honour of yours last night of the 23rd, which I com-
municated to my Lord Treasurer, who will leave it to you to do as you
shall think fit. The changes that has lately been made makes strange
rumbling in the minda of some of our friends. . . . We dine with
Mr. Brydges tomorrow, when we shall drink your health. If I knew
when I would meet you in your last day's journey.
1704, May 2. London. James Craggs to the Honble. Thomas
Coke at the lied Lyon at St. Alban's.
I had the honour of your letter without date, and had certainly met
you tomorrow, but am prevented by an accident, which you will agree
to be a good reason when I see you. As to a new Parliament I believe
there's no sort of grounds. It's said Sir William Trumbull has excused
his accepting the seals upon the score of age and infirmities, but I can
hardly believe it.
1704, June 4. N.S. Ladenburg on the Neckar. R. Pope to Thomas
Coke, M.P. [No address.]
We marched from Bois-le-duc here in twenty days, and halt yesterday
and today for the foot and cannon to come up. The troops are in a
very good condition, considering the length and expeditiousness of the
march, we having been very well provided with forage. The Electors
of Treves and Mayence have seen us on our march, and at least 200
ladies, some of them much handsomer than we expected to find in this
country. My Lord Duke will have an army of near 40,000 under his
command. We don't doubt of obliging the Elector of Bavaria to change
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 87
party, and Lope to do something else considerable before the end of the Cokh mss
campaign. We hear Prince Lewis has got some advantage over the
French and Bavarians, but the Imperialists as well as the French
magnify small matters to that degree that there is no depending on any
account they give of these affairs. As to our own I hope they will
always be in such a condition that they will need no gloss, but be
related with as much sincerity as I am your most obliged humble
servant.
1704, June 6. Knowlehills. Walter Burdett to Thomas Coke.
I liave the usual Sunday dinner here today, and if you please to come
privately to your old quarters of retirement, you know that you and your
company may be welcome. But if you have a mind to have the bells
ring for you, and be public, wherever you please, I will be ready with
my calash and retinue to attend your entrance.
1704, June 11. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
Wo had an indifferent good journey down, as being free
from dust and ill accidents, but as soon as we came to Bretby, we had
reason to think that we left summer at London, and found winter in
Derbyshire, for it has been so windy, rainy, and cold that we have been
obliged to have constant fires in our chambers ever since we came to
this place ; and though we have now many ripe melons, I find (to my
grief) that we shall have very little or no wall fruit this summer. I
hope this account will not make you to defer your journey, for all
your friends here do please themselves with the expectation of your
company.
1704, June 13. Heppach. Captain Richard Pope to Thomas Coke
in St. James's Place.
Since my last to you from Ladenburg, we marched to Effingham
(Hotfenheim) the next day to Mondelsheim, where Prince Eugene
joined us. My Lord Duke was with him alone near three hours that
day. The next we marched here, and yesterday he saw the horscand
dragoons. Prince Lewis of Baden is expected here every moment,
Colonel Cadogan being gone this morning to meet him. So the designs
of this campaign will in all probability be settled this night or tomorrow.
We shall march from hence in two days to Geislinen (Greislingen) where
the general rendezvous of our army is to be. It is nine leagues from
hence, and seven from Ulm. I hear Prince Eugene is unwilling to
command in the Lines of Stolhoven. The French threaten Mayence.
Colonel Sibourg desires to be your humble servant.
1704, June 20. St. James's Place, London. Thomas Coke, M.P., to
the Duke of Marlborough. [Draft.]
My Lord, I am honoured with your Grace's letter from Gardach
[Gartach near Heilbroun] of the 28th of the last month, and I believe
before this comes to your hands there will be an occasion for it to have
congratulated with you upon some good success, as well as to return you
my humble thanks for the many obligations I stand indebted to your
kindness to mee upon so many occasions. Wee have great reason to
hope her Majesty's arms under your Grace will this summer have all the
good success that every wellwisher to England desires : and as the
Germans must own their safety to her Majesty's goodness in asisting
them with her armyes and mony, by which they have escaped the
ruinous blow that seemed so imediately to threaten them, whenever the
French should be able to pass the Black Forest, so they can't but be
fC.LrfSb/ I.
38 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
CokeMSS. sensible how much they must owe the good advice of this glorious under-
taking to your Grace, as well at the executing of it such expedition and
secrecy, which could have been done by nobody else. And the country
gentlemen, who have so long groaned under the weight of four shillings
in the pound, without hearing of a town taken, or any enterprise
endeavoured, seem every day more chearfull in this warr, when no sum-
mer has passed, but some towns have submitted to the English arms,
and expeditions carried on so secretly that they are in a manner suc-
cessfully over before the French, so famous formerly for good
intelligence, can give a guess where the stroke is likely to fall ....
1704, June 25. (Derby.) Dr. John Coke to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place, in London.
I hear from London that the Prince is very ill, and that here is an
extraordinary consultation of physicians about him ; and that it is in
your power to do me a kindness in naming me, if any country physician
should be called in, as hath sometimes been done T having been regu-
larly bred in our own University. ... If there be nothing of this
(because I am not assured of it) I desire you will say nothing of it, but
burn mine as soon as you have read it.
1704, July 6. Bretby. Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke, M.P.
Your favour of the 1st instant brought me the good news of our
success in Portugal, and we have an account since of the great victory
that we have had against the Elector of Bavaria, which gives us reason
to hope that the fortune of France is changed, and must at last submit
to the good of Christendom. I am concerned that we shall not have
your company so soon as we expected.
1704, July 8. Hereford. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
You asked me whether I would come in for a share in some Bur-
gundy, which I thought I would have no occasion of, but if it is not too
late and your number is not full, I will be very willing to make one.
[Observations respecting a victory over the French.] By a letter from
Mr. Clark I hear that the Revenge is stopped to carry my Lord
Galloway to Portugal, where that he may be the better enabled to
change the face of affairs the Queen hath given orders for the regiments
of Donegal and Cawfield to be sent. I am sorry Sir G. Book could not
come up with the C. de Tholone, which, if he had, would have made
one of the most glorious campaigns that England ever saw : but it is
not the first time that the English canvas hath given just cause of
complaint. I should be glad to know how the General Mortgage stood
last midsummer, and what part of it hath been paid off' this last year.
1704, July 27. Richard Husband to Thomas Coke, a Member of Par-
liament, at Mr. St. John's house at Buckleberry, Berkshire.
I went with the deeds on Saturday to Sir Bichard Hoares' ; he sent
his man with me to Mr. Webb's chamber. . . . Christopher
Musgrave is dead.
1704, August 9. Derby. Draft by Thomas Coke of his " Letter to
Keightly."
At my coming into Darbyshire I was surprised with an account of
some things you said here in town to a sempstress whose sister lives at
Kedlaslon, Avhich is so silly a lie that till I hear how you can clear
yourself, 1 have too good an opinion of you to believe. What I am told
you said was that Sir Nathaniel Curzon's daughters were gone to the
Bath to try to get them husbands, but you believed to no purpose;
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 39
and that Sir Nathaniel Curzon had offered either of them to me with Cogs MS3.
20,000/., and that I had refused them. This last it lies more immediately
upon me to expect you to clear yourself [from] : and the rest I hope you
can for your own sake ; for I have that kindness for you that I should
be sorry to have any occasion to write myself other than your affectionate
friend.
1704, August 10. W. Stratford to Thomas Coke, M.P., at Mel-
bourne.
The book you write for is a good argument that you are not much
harrassed in your journey. I hope I am so well acquainted with good
Mr. Coke that I should not have bought the other book, though he had
forgot to give me a caution against it ; and I hope Mr. Coke knows me
so well that he will not expect that I lose this opportunity of letting
the ladies at Bucklebury know what books he choses for his meditations
in his solitude. The books I believe are not to be met with here, nor, if
they were, could I well without a blue coat and long wig, enquire for
them. But I shall venture to write to Holland for them, and to
desire, if they are there, to have them by the first opportunity. Four
mails yesterday, but nothing in them of much moment. Tallard and
Prince Eugene have joined their respective friends. The time of action
before Tallard's junction has been lost, because the Germans had no
heavy cannon. Prince Lewis says he is now ready for the siege of
Ingoldstadt. It is thought he will sit down before it, whilst my Lord
M. and Prince Eugene observe Tallard and Bavaria. . . .
As we were sitting down to dinner at my masters came a copy of my
Lord Marlborough's letter to the Dutchesse, sent by his Ayd-de-camp
Colonel Parker. He says only that he had entirely defeated French
and Bavarians, and that Tallard and two other generals were then
prisoners in his coach. He refers himself for particulars to Parker ;
but he cannot give many, as to place of action and number of those
engaged. He came away just as the victory was declared, and my Lord
M. was giving orders for the pursuit. The letter was writ on horseback
with a black leaden pencil. The victory was gained on the 2nd of
August, our style. Parker has rode it in eight days.
1704, August 10. London. Robert Jennens to Thomas Coke at
Melbourne.
For going out of town and not letting roe know, I have a good mind
not to let you know of the glorious victory of our friend, his Grace of
Marlborough. Parker arrived this day from him. His letter dated
yesterday was sennight from on horseback he writes with a lead pencil.
Prince Lewis had besieged Ingoldstadt, and his Grace, being joined
with Prince Eugene, was to cover the siege. That day they came to a
general battle with the Elector and Marshal Tallard, and had gained
an entire victory: the only body of the army remaining was twenty
battalions, who were surrounded by General Churchill, and must be
cut in pieces or surrender prisoners of war. That Tallard and two
other general officers were then prisoners in his coach, and that the
victory might justly be given to the bravery of his own troops. What
other particulars could be given he leaves to Colonel Parker, who is
gone on to Windsor. Pray remember a brace of greyhounds for Sir
John.
1704, August lo. Melbourne. Thomas Coke, M.P., to the Duke of
Marlborough. [Draft.]
The same post by which I received the honour of your Grace's letter
of the 3rd instant, N.S. from Fridberg [Friedberg near Augsburg]
40 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Com MSB. brought us the welcome news of your glorious victory near Hochsteten.
'Twere needless to say how much we partake in the joy of this news,
so happy for England and all the allies : and I should injure the Publick
should I detain your Grace longer than to wish you oportunities of
meeting the enemy, which are so many certain victories, and that your
sale return to England may crown the successes we are to hope from
this campaign, when amongst the crowd of your well wishers I may
have the honour to assure you there is no one more sincerely so than
your Graces most humble and most obedient servant to command.
1704, August 16. Dillingen. Captain Richard Pope to Thomas
Coke.
I did not give you an account of the affair of Schellenberg, because
it appeared to me with a different face to what it did over all Europe,
it being in my opinion a considerable advantage purchased at a dear
rate, rather than a victory. But this last that my Lord Tunbridge
brings you an account of is the greatest and most glorious action that
has happened in several ages, to the immortal glory of the Queen's
arms, to the perpetual fame of my Lord Duke, who exposed himself as-
much as any officer or soldier in the army, and much more than most
of the generals. As to the number the enemy has lost, 'tis probable
they will never be so ingenuous to publish 'tis so great, and they lie so
dispersed that we cannot compute it. We have taken prisoners Marshal
Tallard, the general of their horse, the general of the dragoons, 4
lieutenant-generals, 3 major-generals, 7 brigadiers, 27 battalions of
foot, 12 squadrons of dragoons with all their horses, 34 pieces of cannon,
standards and colours near 200. This great victory gained at a very
reasonable rate, and wholly owing to the left wing. The right, though
commanded by the great Prince Eugene, contributed very little towards
it. Major Creed being killed in the action, Mr. Cardenel and Colonel
Sibourg tell me I may depend upon having a troop : but they have not
yet settled the majority, being unwilling to give it Prime for some
good reasons : yet being eldest captain and wounded in the action seems
to counterbalance. I have escaped very well in both these actions, but
had my horses shot under me in both in this last in the middle of the
enemy, and had been infallibly killed, if English troopers had not been
much braver than French gens d'armes. Colonel Sibourg had the same
fortune, but was ridden over by two or three squadrons and very much
bruised. To give you my opinion how this great matter was brought
about next to overruling Providence it is owing to two things; first,
a very good disposition of our troops, which, as is reported here, was
concerted betwixt my Lord Duke and Prince Eugene only ; and secondly,
a very great fault committed by Marshal Tallard, who putting 26 bat-
talions into the village of Blinheim to cover the right of his army so
weakened the centre that with our horse we pierced a passage to the
town of Houghstat (Hochstadt), and cut off all communication betwixt
the right and left wings of their army. I hear Captain Burton is
killed.
1704, August 17. Camp at Steinheim.
Our army, which lay on their arms in the enemy's camp on Wednes-
day night, after the battle, made a small movement on Thursday and
came with the right to Wittesling[en] and the left to this place. The
Elector of Bavaria and the Marechal de Marsin with the remainder of
their army passed the Danube the same day over the bridge of Lavingen
(Lauingen), which they burned as soon as they were over, and inarched
to Burleffingen near Ulm. And yesterday they retired further up the
villed.
Wounded.
13
33
13
45
9
26
483
1,079
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 41
river towards the Iller. We have since repaired that bridge, as also CoKE mss.
another at Hochstet (Hochstadt). We have an account that yesterday
morning early the troops that were in garrison at Augsburg quitted the
town and are marched to join the Elector : and this morning two
deputies came from thence to wait on my Lord Duke and pray his
Grace's protection. Thereupon a detachment is ordered to march and
take possession of the town. The number of prisoners increase every
day by the coming of those who in the rout escaped into the country :
they amount now to about 11,000, besides more than 1,200 officers, and
are very uneasy to us : but we hope soon to dispose of them. The M 11
de Tallard, with 16 general officers and 13 colonels which he has
requested may be with him, will be going on Tuesday towards Franc-
fort aud Hanau. His Grace sends a guard of a captain and 50 English
horse to attend them. Our army is to advance at the same time towards
Ulm, in order to oblige the enemy to decamp from that place, which is
the last where they have any magazines in this country. This day was
observed as a day of thanksgiving through the whole army for our
success, and concluded with a triple discharge of all our artillery and
small shot. His Grace has declared Brigadier Ross a Major-General
and the Lord John Hay, Colonel Meredyth, Colonel Palms and Colonel
Cadogan Brigadiers.
Captains, &c.
Lieutenants
Ensigns
Soldiers -
(In another hand) : '
Captain Littleton has sent an express this evening that he has taken
two French privateers of 28 and 24 guns.
1704, August 19. Albemarle Street. to Thomas Coke.
Could I have followed my own inclinations I had before this time
waited on you at Melbourne ; but I was hurried from Hinchinbrook by
letter from the Navy Office. We are not cool yet since the good news.
I question whether there has been so decisive a battle since that at
Pharsalia. That at Pavia was not so extensive, Christendom beiug not
so much concerned in the consequence of it. On Sunday I was [at]
Windsor, where I found my Lord Treasurer sensibly overjoyed, for this
has given the balance of Europe into the Queen's hands. By the
favour of your letter I presume you intend a kindness to one, who, I
believe, has gratitude and ability enough to return it in a very agreeable
manner. I am promised something that may be worth a character in
my next. Last night I was at Si's, who would fain have brought that
young Centinel (that by the description ought to have been one of that
company which I raised once in Leicester Fields) to justify himself from
all stains and aspersions, but I did not see him. The other you and St.
John saw at that time was the dependent on my Lord Pawlett's family,
whom I had once met there. I cannot tell what to say to him, unless
according to the S.S. (Scriptures ?) it happened that one shall be taken
and another left. I am now going with Mr. Brydges to the play ; but
intend to call at the place aforesaid, to desire that a dish which I tasted
last night may be set by for me ; for though I had then my belly full,
there is more left, and I shall be again hungry. Since the news I have
not seen any creature so like a Jacobite as a Whig : their looks, their
blood and their goodwill to the Government are the same. Dear Mr.
Coke adieu. [No signature.']
42 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
coke MSS. 1704, August 19. London. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
I am to return you my humble thanks for the favour of your last
which I received in the country, and in it for the account you sent me
of the General Mortgage, and am glad to find we daily lessen it, not-
withstanding the disadvantages of the war and decrease of trade. At
my coming to town I met the joyful news of my Lord Marlborough's
great and happy victory. ... Our prisoners increase daily, for
the French soldiers finding no protection from the boors of the country,
and being ignorant of the ways and consequently of the best means of
hiding themselves, think it more for their interest to surrender them-
selves prisoners than to run the hazard of being knocked on the head by
the peasants, who now reckon them the causes of their country being
ruined. Marshal Tallard and the other Generals will go near, I fancy,
to be sent into England : the common soldiers exchanged for those we
have lost in Savoy and Portugal, which in effect will be as good as
sending them so many recruits. We have no news from our fleet since
that of the taking of Gibraltar. 'Tis a very strong place, and though
our seamen behaved themselves to the wonder of every body, yet had
there been a garrison of 1,000 men in it, it had been impossible for any
fleet to have taken it. It will not protect a fleet against a superior one,
but 'twill be of use and safety for single ships, or four or five men of
war, and in that respect of great advantage to our trade : so that I
heartily wish the Kings of Portugal and Spain n;ay be inclined to
send a garrison to keep it, without which we must be obliged to
abandon it.
1704, August 21. Camp at Sefelingen (Sofllingen, adjoining and west
of Ulm).
On Monday the Marechal de Tallard with most of the other
prisoners of note, marched from Hochstet towards Hanau and Francfort
under a guard of 40 English Dragoons. At the same time the re-
partition was made of all the rest of the prisoners, who were ordered to
several places adjoining for the better conveniency of keeping them till
they can be removed further into the country. We find now the whole
number, including near 3,000 that have taken on in our troops, to exceed
13,000 officers and soldiers. On Tuesday the army marched from
Steinheim and encamped with the right at Printz (Brenz ?) and the
left at Gondelfingen, from whence we advanced yesterday to Langenau
and Ober Elchingen, and today we came to this place, within little more
than an English mile of Ulm. Upon our march we heard of great
numbers of officers of the enemy that had been buried in the several
villages we came by : and we are told by the people here that when the
enemy marched from Ulm, they carried off with them upwards of 7,000
wounded, whereof near a thousand were officers : that they burned a
great number of their waggons that they might make use of the horses
to make brancers (brancards) to carry off the officers with greater ease.
All our hussars with several parties of horse are in pursuit of them,
and with the country people cut off all that' cannot keep up with their
army ; so that we hear they have made great slaughter of them. The
enemy have left in garrison here four French battalions and five of
Bavaria. We are blocking up the place in the meanwhile till it be
settled what troops shall carry on the siege : and then the rest of the
army will advance through the country of Wirtemburg towards the
Khine. This morning a deputy came hither from the city of Memingen
to crave the Duke of Marlborough's protection, and brings advice that
the Electrice of Bavaria was passed through that place with five of her
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 43
children under an escort of fourteen squadrons of horse in order to follow Coke MSS.
the Elector.
(1704), August 22. W. Stratford to Thomas Coke.
The two inclosed papers have the perfectest list I can yet meet with
of the slain on our side. The Elector has drawn off his garrisons and
totally abandoned the country. If Villeroy come up to him, he seems
to design another push for it, otherwise to retire into France. We are
in good hopes the news we had by the last letters from the Hague may
prove true. They said many letters from France spoke of an engage-
ment at sea in which the French were worsted. This is certain that
letters from France of good credit said there are two expresses come in
from Madrid, which made the Court uneasy, and were kept very secret.
. . . There has been much noise of a plot. The City on Thursday
was ready to take arms. The Exchange was full of it that the Queen
was to have been blown up at Windsor : and the blow being missed there,
she was assaulted as she came to Hampton Court, and wounded in the
hand. We at this end of the world hear nothing, but that some returns
had been discovered from France, but neither the sums, nor the persons
to whom they were sent of any moment. I saw a letter from the
Apothecary-General that said my Lord North and Gray's right hand had
been cut off; it was so shattered it could not be cured: that it was
likely Oglethorp would die of the wound he received at Schellenberg :
that Lord Forbes and Lord Mordaunt were badly wounded. Mr. St.
Johns and his family are gone to Wiltshire. I shall set forward next
Tuesday for Chester. The desire I have to wait on you will make my
stay there very short. I hope to wait on you at Melbourn about the
26th of September if that time be convenient for you.
1704, August 24. Camp at Sefelingen.
On Friday the Governor of Ulm sent out of the town 430 prisoners
of our troops taken at Hochstet, Dillingen and on other occasions, with
a compliment to my Lord Duke of Marlborough, praying his Grace will
take a fitting opportunity to return an equal number of theirs : but
being all of the German troops, his Grace sent them to Prince Eugene.
The Elector of Bavaria's communication with his country being entirely
cut off, a trumpet came hither last night with a letter from the Elector's
Highness dated at Dutlingen the 21st instant, desiring my Lord Duke
to give conveyance to one inclosed to the Electress, which his Grace
sent forward by a trumpet of his own to Munich, the Electress with her
children being gone back thither. Prince Lewis of Baden came hither
today to confer with my Lord Duke and Prince Eugene, having left his
army encamped at Lawingen, which will be here tomorrow or Tuesday ;
and the heavy artillery, which was before Ingoldstadt, will follow in a
day or two, to carry on siege of Ulm. My Lord Duke with the English
troops, and the greatest part of those in the pay of her Majesty and the
States will march on Tuesday towards the Rhine.
1704, August 24. Barfleur, near the South Cape. Copy of the Re-
port by Sir Cloudesley Shovell of the Action between the English Fleet
of 53 ships and a French Fleet of about 49 ships.
1704, August 28. Camp at Sefelingen.
On Tuesday the troops began their march towards the Rhine by
different routes for the ease of the country. His Grace the Duke of
Marlborough will follow tomorrow in order to join them. Prince Louis
intends to march at the same time with the Imperial horse, and Prince
Eugene is going to Rotweil to assemble the troops in those (tarts and the
levies, to join us on the Rhine. We shall leave General Thuugen here
44 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
(Joke MSB. with the forces that were to have besieged Ingoldstadt, to attack Ulm
in case the place be not surrendered by composition, of which we have
some hopes. The Emperor has ordered the troops that have been acting
against the Elector of Bavaria on the borders of Tyrol under the
command of Lieutenant- General Guttenstein and Lieu tenant- General
Tierheimb [Thierheim ?] to march immediately to join the Comte de
Linange [Leiningen], in order to make a diversion in favour of the Duke
of Savoy : and Comte Maffey will set out tomorrow on his way to Turin
to acquaint his Royal Highness with the measures that are taking for
the rest of the campaign, which 'tis hoped may oblige the enemy to
draw a considerable body of their troops out of Italy. By letters we
have intercepted of the 19th instant, going from Dutliugen to the French
Court, the enemy own the loss of upwards of 40,000 men, killed taken
prisoners and " by the general desertion in their retreat, which was in
very great disorder the whole way.
(1704), August 31. (Petersham.) Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke,
at Melborn.
I suppose you are much taken up the time you are at home in your
garden, for which this weather is very pleasant. Mr. Hardinge tells
me it is ready for the trees. For news I know of none but public, which
is sufficiently good to satisfy everybody at present, though it is almost
impossible for some to be really pleased, since my Lord Mall[borough]
must have so great a share in the honour of it. My Lord Hyde and
my Lady went yesterday to the Bath, and my Lord Rochester and his
daughter have been some time gone to my Lord Conoways.
1704, September 2. Camp at Gross Gordach.
The English and Danish troops that marched under the command of
General Churchill from Sefelingen the 26th past encamped that night at
Launsheim : the next day they continued their march to Gross Seissen :
the 26th to Ebersbach, where they halted the 29th. The 30th they came
to Gross Heppach, and the 31st to Mundelsheim, when they halted.
Yesterday and this day we passed the Neckar at Lauffen, and came to
Gross Gordach. His Grace the Duke of Marlborough joined us on
Sunday evening at Mundelsheim from the camp before Ulm, which he
left the day before at five in the morning. Comte Wratislaw stays
there to receive the proposals of the Elector of Bavaria for delivering up
the place : and General Thungen, who commands the siege is making
preparations for carrying it on with vigour, if it be not surrendered. He
has with him twenty -four squadrons, and twenty-three battalions, besides
those men which are on their march to join him. He was to open the
trenches on Saturday night, and will attack the place with forty pieces
of cannon besides mortars. When we are masters of this place, the
French will have no more troops on this side the Rhine. My Lord
Duke having received an invitation from the Duke Regent of Wirtem-
berg by his Grand Mareschall to his residence at Stutgard, his Grace
went thither yesterday morning accompanied by several general officers ;
and after a very splendid entertainment returned in the evening to the
army. The enemy having repassed the Black Forest, and being since
retired over the Rhine, Prince Eugene did not go to Rotweil as he
intended, but went directly to Rastadt, to assemble the troops and march
them towards Phillipsburg. Prince Louis is gone for three or four days
to Aschaffenburg.
1704, September 3. Eppingen. This day we marched from Gross
Gordach to Eppingen, and tomorrow the Duke of Marlborough will
advance with the horse to Langebriick, and from thence to Phillipsburg,
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 45
to join the troops Prince Eugene is assembling there from the Lines, in Coke mss.
order to pass the Rhine and take post on the other side, while the foot
comes up by easier marches.
1704, September 14-. London. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
Being desirous you should have the account of Sir George Rook's
engagement as early as is possible, though 'tis very late and I but just
come from the Admiralty, I could not forbear sending it you by this
post. As soon as Sir G. understood by his scouts that the enemy was
in sight he gave the necessary directions for the disposition of his fleet,
viz., that the van should be commanded by Sir Oloudesley, and led on
by Sir John Leake, that the Dutch should have the rear, and himself
remain in the centre. His whole number consisted of 53 of the line,
and the French of 52 of the line and 24 gallies. After this he bore
down upon them, but they, instead of expecting us, crowded all the
sail they could away. However on the 13th of August we got up with
them off Cape Malaga, and then the battle began. After two hours
dispute, our van defeated theirs, and the Dutch did the like by their
rear: but five of our biggest ships in the middle having spent every jot
of their powder and shot (the greatest part of their store having been
expended before at Gibraltar) and forced thereby to be towed out of the
battle, the burthen of the day fell very heavy on the main body, especially
Sir G. his own ship, the St. George and Shrewsbury, and lasted till
night put an end to it. Next day they had the Avind of us, but would
not engage again, so that day was spent in repairing the damages of the
preceding one. The next day the wind coming about easterly we bore
down to them again, for they were to the westward of us, and by four
came up with them : but it being so late it was judged best to defer
renewing the fight till morning, which they stayed not for, but took the
advantage of the darkness of the night and stole away for Tholon. Sir
George is expected at Portsmouth within these four or five days. He hath
not lost any ships : about 2,700 men killed and wounded of the Dutch
and us, amongst whom are Sir Andrew Leake and Captain Cow of the
Renclagh, the Albermarle, a Dutch ship of 64 guns, and the best 6f but
eleven that they had in the engagement, blew up about three days after
it by an accident. Sir George writes word that they must needs bc~so
disabled that there's no danger of any insult on the coast of Portugal, nor
any attempt from them upon Gibraltar, where for its security he hath
left 2,000 marines in garrison. You'll pardon this scrawl. 1 am sorry
(if you are so) to acquaint you that your friend Mr. Sheson, if in one of
those that took the Canada ship, must have been in the Towy, and
consequently carried into Brest, that ship having been taken by the
French.
1704, September 16. Derby. John Dakeyne to Thomas Coke.
I came hither today to wait upon you, and also to desire that I may
serve you in auy post or place in the country cr London you have to
dispose of. Business relating to the law is much less than formerly :
that is my profession and I could easily embrace more of that or other
concerns that may be offered. . . I am glad my daughter has the
happiness to wait upon yours at Wing. I hope she gives good satis-
faction in her place, and if you think fit, I desire her wage may be
something augmented being, as I hear, but 3/. per annum. I had the
favour to be one of your clerks at the election.
1704, September 21. London. Robert Jennens to Thomas Coke.
Not being able to send you acceptable news of your wine being in
your cellar prevented me writing. By this time I believe it is, for it
46 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSB. was entered on Tuesday, and my deputy promised to send it home by
night. But I fear it will cost you more than the last, though I made
use of all my interest to serve you. . . Mrs. Norman is just married
to Charles Bertie's son. They were at the Park on Sunday, in as fine
a chariot as Lord Kingston's and six horses, and the couple as fine as
embroidery and tissue could make them. She looked fresh and gay, of
a complexion that would not bear a long confinement : put her down
again in your table book from the lists of maids to that of matrimony.
Now for news and politics. Every post from Holland cheers us with
good news. Our friend the Duke not only conquers, but flies to take
advantages and every minute does something towards the destruction of
his enemies. Ulm surrendered, Landau besieged, and Trierbach I
believe the same by this time. The King of the Bomans is coming to
the army, to spoil if possible the good agreement that is amongst the
generals. It's said that the Elector has desired to have all his own
troops with him in Flanders, and the absolute power of government
invested in him, which is refused him : which at present has stopped
his journey thither. For our sea battle, both sides have been well
banged, neither has much reason to brag of a victory, though both sides
pretend it. But taking the circumstances of their superiority of strength
and place, cleanness of ships and galleys, better provided with ammuni-
tion and provision, demonstrates that they are not here the people that
we are ; and their want of real virtue has made them lose such an op-
portunity of destroying us, which I hope they'll never have again. For
the Duke of Marlborough, his very enemies are forced to sing his praises
(though with sour faces) as well as his friends. Sir George Rooke
has gained a great deal of reputation, both for his courage and conduct
in this battle : but. as you know, no man in England is more pushed at
by his numerous enemies than he. Several detracting expressions are
thrown out against him by particulars, which sway, I believe, very little
with the public. By the care you have taken of my friend Seyers you
may expect good linen. The yachts will be soon going, by whom I
will send them, and for your shirts. I could be longer, but you see I
have neither room nor reason for it. Entirely yours.
(1704), September 23. Chester. W. Stratford to Thomas Coke at
Melbourn.
I am detained here two days longer than I designed and it will be
Friday evening before I can reach Melbourn. Our news still improves
upon us, and we have nothing to wish, but that our winter campaign
at home may, in its way, be as successful as the summer one abroad has
been. I have heard nothing from Bucklebury since I left the town : I
hope I may hear from you an account of the health of those good ladies
there.
1704, September 23. (London.) Robert Jennens to Thomas Coke.
Two posts from Holland, and three from Lisbon bring no news.
But just now an account is come that Sir George Rooke is seen off the
Start, which makes me write. Lord Delaware is past danger : and the
Queen has forgiven Feilding. Lord North, Captain Windham and
Oglethorp dead. Duke Marlborough has got an ague. On Saturday I
set forward for Newmarket.
1704, September 26-October 13. Camp at Weissembourg.
September 26. My Lord Duke of Marlborough having waited on
the King of the Romans at the Camp before Landau, and visited the
approaches our troops have made to the place, returned to his quarters
on Wednesday evening, as Prince Eugene did next morning. Yester-
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 47
day four Prussian regiments of foot marched from hence to reinforce the CoKE MSS -
troops that carry on the siege, and General Thungen is expected this
day with sixteen battalions of those that were employed in the siege of
Ulm. . . . The continued rains have somewhat interrupted our
works before Landau for these three days past. However we hope a
battery of thirty great guns may begin to play tomorrow. On Wednes-
day there was arrived before the place 34 twenty-four pounders, 12
twelve pounders, 11 mortars, 2 howitzers and 100 hand mortars.
September 29. On Saturday the 27th the garrison of Landau made a
great sally, in which we had twenty-six men killed and wounded.
They did no damage to the works, being soon repulsed with a much
greater loss on their side, our horse pushing them into the counterscarp
. . . the cannon are brought down to the trenches to be placed on
the batteries, which are nearly completed for thirty pieces. Yesterday
my Lord Duke of Marlborough waited again on the King of the Romans
at his quarters near Landau : and after dinner attended him to the
Camp, where his Majesty reviewed the troops drawn up in two lines.
His Grace returned hither this afternoon. Last night the enemy made
a great fire from the town upon the relief of the trenches, but with very
little effect, for we lost but two men. . . . Monsr. Meermann is
gone back towards Bavaria, having received from the Prince of Salms,
Grand Maitre to the King of the Romans, an answer to the proposals he
had made in behalf of the Electoress.
October 3. Yesterday morning the King of the Romans, attended
by the principal officers of his court and army, came to [from ?] the
Camp before Landau to see the troops encamped here, which were for
that purpose drawn out in two lines. His Grace received his Majesty
at the left of the army, and waited on him along the lines : after which
his Majesty was saluted with a triple discharge of the artillery and
small arms. He was pleased to express himself extremely well satisfied
with the good condition he found the troops in. And after having been
splendidly entertained, with all the court and chief officers, by my Lord
Duke his Majesty returned in the evening for Landau, whence we have
an account that the Imperial battery of thirty pieces began to play on
Wednesday the J st instant and have already ruined the gate and some
part of the ravelin. Yesterday they began to work on the Prussian
battery : this is designed for 28 pieces. . . 'Tis thought the counter-
scarp will be attacked in five or six days.
October 13. On Friday the 10th the disposition being made for a
second attack of the redoubt, which the enemy retook the night before,
the same was put in execution with good success about nine at night.
The dispute was very hot for above an hour, during which time the
enemy endeavoured three several times to repossess themselves of it, but
were at last obliged to give it over, with very considerable lo.s : and our
men continue in possession of the post, having since completed a lodge-
ment on the foot of the glacis. The enemy upon their retreat set fire to
great quantities of powder, with intent to spring their mines : which
being perceived by our men was prevented from taking effect by their
cutting the fuses. On Saturday we continued searching for mines in
the redoubt, and discovered several branches leading to them. The
same day the two approaches on the left were advanced, one within
sixty, the other within forty paces of the glacis. Yesterday our men
in the redoubt cut into one of the enemy's mines, out of which they took
eight hundredweight of powder. Our approaches on the left are now
within twenty-five paces of the glacis, from whence we shall draw
48 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Core MSS. another parallel to secure the batteries which are to be made on the
counterscarp as soon as we have found out the rest of their mines.
Deserters from Landau report that the Governor is wounded.
This morning a battalion of the Royal Regiment of Foot, Brigadier
Hamilton's, Lieut.-General Ingoldsby's and Colonel Tatton's Regiments
marched from hence towards Gemmersheim, where they are to embark
on the Rhine for Holland. These regiments with the five battalions
sent down some time since are to supply the places of ten Dutch batta-
lions and six squadrons of horse, that are to be drawn out of the garri-
sons in Holland to march towards the Moselle. General Churchill and
my Lord Orkney are likewise gone with those regiments, intending to
make use of the waters for their health, before they embark for England.
1704, October 2. London. James Brydges to Thomas Coke.
. . . The meeting of Parliament is fixed to the 24th of this month,
so that I hope to have the happiness of seeing you very shortly in town.
I was at Windsor t'other day when I met Sir George Rook, and never
saw him look better in my life. He says that side of the Royal
Catharine that was next the fire of the enemies is so mauled that all
above water must be rebuilt. 'Tis a very great happiness our fleet
arrived so well home : the weather, God be thanked, was very favourable :
and Sir George's conduct both in and since the engagement is univer-
sally applauded. The Queen leaves Windsor I hear on this day
fortnight. My Lord Treasurer hath been very ill of the stone and
gravel, insomuch that he was forced to defer his journey to Newmarket,
a sure sign of his being very bad. I have sent you inclosed a copy of
Sir Cloudesley's letter to the N.B. giving an account of the action.
1704, October 3. London. Elinor Gayman to the Honourable
Squire Coke, at his house at Melboru in Darbyshire.
All things are well here and safe as yet. I hope it will continue so,
though there is abundance of robbery committed and murder here.
A watchman killed in pursuit of a thief ; whereby the Queen granted
a gallows to be erected in Drury Lane to hang the thief before the door
he robbed. A gentleman last Saturday night beheaded in his own
house, and his house robbed. But [ have got the Smith's man now to
lie in the house, and shall do my endeavour for preservation ; and wish
your worship safe home. I am your faithful humble servant to
command.
1704. October 7. London. Elinor Gayman to Squire Coke at
Melborn.
I received the inclosed last night. All things are safe and well here.
But at my Lord Wootten ; s house at Hampstead the gardener, a very
old man, was killed in a barbarous manner by five men in his bed : they
had first bound his man, and cut the rope of the bell, that he could not
ring up the family : the thieves are not found. Pray God send your
worship safe home, and your family.
1704, October 8. Weissenburg. Lieutenant Richard Pope to
Thomas Coke.
We have been engaged this three weeks in the most disagreeable
thing I ever met with, which is, covering a siege which advances very
slowly ; and which is worse in a place, when there is not the least forage
to be found. Our horses live npon very bad straw, and those that are
too nice for that diet die daily. In short the Imperialists undertake
sieges without cannon, ammunition or engineers with as much assurance
as they did a war without money credit or troops. Our greatest
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 49
comfort is, the French (if we can believe the intelligence we hear) are Coke diss.
in a very bad condition, and not able to attempt raising the siege,
should we march toward Trarbach ; which we talk of investing, that we
may lose no advantage that may be made out of our late victory. My
Lord Duke has given out no commissions since the battle. I fear he
wants remembering the promise he made you in my behalf. There is not
one of those that call themselves pretty fellows in our army but what has
asked for the troop : and most of the old Captains in other regiments
for the Major's post, and offer to back their pretentions with a thing
that sways much in the world. For my own part if I don't deserve a
troop now, I never will pretend to do it : and since I had not the good
fortune to buy Captain Sulley (which if I had done, I should have been
infallibly Major now) I think I will never purchase one. They like our
two eldest Captains, Prime and Norton, so little that I am in much
doubt how it will go. I wish, instead of an advantage, it may not be a
great prejudice to me. But I'll trouble you no more now with this matter,
and let railing alone against some people that I have some reason to do,
till a more convenient season.
1704, October 10. Whitehall. Henry St. John to Thomas Coke.
Dear Tom, I send you at last the purse, which is the richest and
best filled that I have been able to get, after searching all the shops in
town, and being more than once disappointed. We hear that your
brother is going to be married to Lady Harper's sister. If so, I hope
the lady will be endowed in this purse, and I shall be pleased to have
had any share in being serviceable on an occasion where your family is
concerned. I send you no news because we have none. The Germans
lose a world of time at the siege of Landau, and will not take the
advice of those who know more of the matter than they. The French
are cowed and dejected by the defeats they have received this year to
a degree that is not to be expressed. Sir George Rook has done an
action which all the world ought to admire, and which the generality
blame. The Jews are publicly buying horses in Germany for the
king of France, who without this recruit could not remount his cavalry^
and no notice is taken of it. The devil's in it if this is news. Make
haste to town and believe me yours ever, Harry. I say nothing to
Billy [Stratfoi-d], because I suppose the varlet is coming up.
1704, October 16. Whitehall. Henry St. John to Thomas Coke at
Melborne.
Dear Tom, I have just received yours, and am glad the purse
proved to your satisfaction. The use I hoped it had been for is so
good a one that I cannot but be sorry to be undeceived. I go tomorrow
morning to Bucklebury, and shall be back on Saturday, on which day
it would be a great pleasure to meet you in town : but for God's sake
do not at furthest stay longer than Sunday, because it is most certain
our patriots design some gallant thing to open the session with, and
that is what, out of kindness to them, every one should oppose. Though
I believe in a little time all the endeavours of their friends to keep 'em
on their legs will prove ineffectual. As to wh;res, dear friend, I am
very unable to help thee. I have heard of a certain housemaid that is
very handsome : if she can be got ready against your arrival, she shall
serve for your first meal. Adieu, ever yours most entirely, Harry.
The fat Levite is come to town.
(1704), October 17. London. W. Stratford to Thomas Coke.
I came to town on Saturday : on Sunday morning I waited on Mr.
St. Johns, and found the solicitor with him. Both wish )oil would be
U SS973. T
50 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. here by the 23rd of this month. They cannot say there is an absolute
necessity for it, but affairs are in so uncertain a state, they know not
but they may have occasion for all their friends. A mail came in
yesterday. The siege of Landau goes on intolerably slow. At the date
of the last letters, which were just after a month the trenches had been
opened, the Germans were not advanced one step further than the
French were last year after seven days opening of the trenches. That
which is worst is that they are jealous, and will not admit either of
advice or assistance from us or the Dutch. The Duke is very uneasy,
and it is thought will leave them, and go straight to the Moselle, to
undertake somewhat by himself. It will be late before he comes for
England. . . . My Lord Dorset owns his marriage with one of his
acquaintance, one of the Roches : do you think any one will pity him ?
There is a strong talk there will be some attempt against the Speaker.
I cannot think it will succeed, but I know not but it may be offered,
and I hope you will be there.
1704, October 26. Kilkenny. Captain John Trott to Thomas Coke,
at his house in St. James's Place, near St. James's Gate, London.
I left Ashburne on Monday October 2 and that day sennight
landed at Ringsend, near to Dublin. Next morning by nine, mustered:
I was complete, but have had since then six of my men desert from me.
None of our regiment is yet clothed, which is very injurious to us. I
am satisfied, was they, that not one of our men durst go from us ; for
the Lords Justices have put forth a declaration that whoever takes a
deserter, and brings him to his officer, shall have six pounds reward :
and every one that has a company in the regiment pays ten shillings
towards the six pounds. You had been troubled with this sooner had
not I, with three other companies, been commanded on the 11th of this
instant for Kilkenny. We are quartered in the barracks : they are the
best and most convenient that I ever yet saw. The barracks, they tell
me, through the kingdom are the same. Provisions here are mighty
cheap. The carcase of the best sheep that comes into the market
is bought for two shillings : beef under halfpenny the pound. The
people in this country make the old proverb good, that God sends meat,
and the devil cooks. The malt drink is bad, but to make it mends we
have good French claret at sixteen pence the quart. Pray my service to
William Fitzherbert, John Balguy and all friends.
1704, November 1. Holmesfield. Michael Burton to Thomas
Coke, M.P., London.
I beg leave to remind you of my unfortunate loss of my poor brother,
and once more to entreat your favour and assistance to reimburse me.
. . . The gross of what I have laid down for him is about 520/., but
will increase by interest.
1704, November 8. Foston. Richard Bate to Thomas Coke, West-
minster.
The late misfortunes in my family are the cause of my being here at
this time, for conveniency of air and some retirement from business, to
which I must again return upon arrival of our fleet from the West
Indies, now daily expected. I am much surprised to hear I am again
one of the three nominated for Sheriff of this County, since it is so
generally known my occasions in the city so much l'equire my attendance.
. . . I must at this time beg your assistance by getting me now
excused. . .
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 51
1704, November 8. "Weissenburg. Lieutenant Richard Pope to Ookb Mss.
Thomas Coke.
The Prince of Baden is now sufficiently revenged for our robbing him
of a share of the glory of the victory of Bleidhem. He has spun out
this siege till the left wing of horse, to which that action was chiefly
owing is entirely ruined. "We have not above twenty horses a troop
left, and probably there will not ten of those be able to march to
Holland. I have lost six of my own equipage. Besides the want of
forage we have a pestilential distemper amongst them that carries off
forty or fifty a day. I suppose you will expect to hear something of the
siege of Landau : but we here have quite left off asking about it. I can
only tell you that we are lodged upon the counterscarp, and have finished
two batteries, and pretend to have the third ready by tomorrow. But
ammunition is very scarce, for yesterday the English and Dutch gunners
desiring to know if they were to fire as many rounds as they usually did
in a day, at sieges, they were answered the half was enough.
1704, November 8. Bramcoate. Sir R. Burdet, Bart., to Thomas
Coke at the House of Commons, Westminster.
. . . You are the only person that I can apply to, and I am forced to
rely on your discretion. The judges have put me in the middle of the
three presented to the Queen for sheriff: and (to be plain) I resolve not
to serve : rather choosing to be at the mercy of the Queen for a fine,
than run any other hazard. I have served my country to the best of my
understanding for more than twenty years. I have not spared my purse
nor my body. I understand how to serve this office at a small expense,
but, having been faithful to the Government in Church and State, until
an age that obligeth me to lay aside all public business, I hope I may
be excused in this, as well as others. I am not willing to say more
being so well known to you.
1704, November 9. Breda. Robert Mundy to Thomas Coke, M.P.,
Westminster.
Soon after the late battle I made my application to my Lord Duke,
who was pleased to repeat the promiso he made to Mr. Harpur. The
actions of this campaign have furnished his Grace with opportunities of
performing what he so generously promised. Several vacancies are
already filled up, which gives me great reason to fear another disappoint-
ment. But if I might be so happy to have the favour of your letter to
my Lord, all seeming difficulties would vanish : which humble request
granted will highly oblige our whole family, as well as lay an eternal
obligation on your most humble servant.
1701, November 29. Brampton. John Akrode to Thomas Coke,
M.P.
Upon Saturday last Mr. Ashton desired me and some others to set
our hunds to a letter to you and Mr. Curzon, on the behalf of many
persons in and about Sheffield, to beg of you both that you would please
to assist them in preventing the passing of a Bill endeavoured to be
procured this present Sessions of Parliament by Macclesfield to suppress
making of horn buttons, which, if it be obtained, will be the ruin of
many families in and about Sheffield, who at present live well by fol-
lowing that manufacture. The truth is this country and (as I believe)
a great part of the nation is sadly abused by those in and about Maccles-
field by making such bad buttons, both as to its making, and the had
materials they are made of: so that three sets of buttons will not
wear out an ordinary cloth, which has forced people to invent other
buttons of more durable lasting. And tome it seems unreasonable that
52 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS, Macclesfield should engross the whole trade, and force us to buy their
bad wares at their own prices, made as I hear of an Indian commodity,
which is nought in itself and takes away our ready cash in specie to
purchase it : whereas, if I be truly informed, our native commodity of
wool (which is now at a very low rate) would make excellent
buttons, help to consume the wool and get many hands at work, to
make it ready for the button makers. I would therefore most humbly
beg you will please to use your best endeavours to prevent the passing
of the Bill ; or if that cannot be, if there can be a way found out to
enforce wrought buttons to be better made, it will be for the good of
the whole country.
1704, December 1, Amington. Edward Eepington to [Thomas
Coke].
Formerly, Mr. Bromley never failed of a catalogue of grievances
every Sessions, but at last I took pity of him, and resolved to attack you
in your turn. This it is to have the misfortune to be acquainted with an
impertinent fellow, who, because he is uneasy himself, must be troubling
those that are not: though if matters proceed as they do, I'm appre.
hensive too many will be possessed with different sentiments to mine,
which tend only to the public good. It has been thought proper by
the legislators to charge four shillings in the pound upon land, but at
the same time I don't hear that anything is done to enable the owners
to pay so great a tax. Never was less money stirring, or commodities
(except foreign) cheaper. The best beef is but 2\d. a pound, mutton 2d.,
wheat 3s. the bushel, and all other grain proportionable : nor can, for
want of vent, any of these things be sold in a quantity. Cattle and
sheep are sent to fairs and return unbought, and it's reckoned good
market when two or three strike of corn will go off. At this rate how
such vast sums of money can be paid which are demanded, I can't
foresee. Were the men of war obliged to victual in England, from
whence they are supplied with all necessaries but provisions, the price
of cattle would rise. It would be some help to have the East India
ships stored from hence where so many of their useless are sold.
But instead of that, it's here reported (and not as I fear without grounds)
that Ireland, which contributes so little towards the carrying on the
war, furnishes all or the greater part of what is for the subsistence of
the fleet, and the merchant men too. It's not for mortals to surmount
impossibilities, and unless speedy care be taken, the Midland counties
must be inevitably ruined, for want of sale for their goods : and by the
Receivers sending that little money away in specie, that should circulate
here. I should think that if 15,000/. or 20,000/. was yearly laid out
in corn by the Government, and sent to Sawley Ferry, which is the
nearest place to us that is navigable, in order to be transported, it would
raise the drooping spirits of the people, who must have something
done for 'em. Which if refused, some attempts should be made upon
the Spanish West Indies, from whence golden mountains would be
expected, and the thoughts of men at present buoyed up, with the
prospect of having quantities of bullion coined : that money might
be more current among them. For other trans-marine projects they
serve to ruin, rather than enrich, the nation. England was never
poorer than under the reign of Edward 3, notwithstanding his successes
against France. You may say it's Roman like and generous to assist
our allies. Perhaps it may be so, but the Romans always made an
advantage of their allies in the conclusion, and were too wise to ruin
themselves out of mistaken notions of honour, being ever well rewarded
for the assistance they sent. The Black Prince would not engage to
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 53
reinvest Peter of Castile in his throne, without assurances of being
well requited. But Ave go upon different principles, exclusive of
prudential considerations. A nominal king is sent to a king disused
to arms, whose subjects for 30 or 40 years never saw sword drawn in
anger, or a musket fired that carried anything but powder. This was
a noble adventure and could not but succeed when so many great
statesmen were so remarkably concerned in it. When a raw, undis-
ciplined army pretends to invade a nation long trained up in war, and
the inhabitants confirmed in their allegiance to the king in possession,
matters must undoubtedly go well, especially when the useful succours
lie so remote, and must be sent by sea, where contrary winds, storms or
dangers so often retard, if not shatter, the transporting fleets. This, in
my language, is perfect knight errantry, when empty fame is hawked
after, only to be acquired with blood and wounds. I wish we in the
country could live as the knights errant did, who, we don't find in all
their romances, were ever hungry, wanted money, or other conveniences
of life. I'll conclude with some observations upon a Scotch Act, called
the Act of Security, wherein I find our good neighbours enabled to
invade England, Avho never wanted the will when they had the power,
which they can't be long without, having a permission to arm and
discipline the whole country. The French king I suppose, Avhen things
are ripe for the design, won't let them AA'ant money to go thorough Avith it.
It's not the first time the Scots have invaded this nation with success :
there's some alive that don't forget Leslie's coming into England, Avhich
gave so much encouragement to the late unhappy Civil War. The
least the Senate can do, since what's past cannot be recalled, is to make
the militia useful, and petition the Queen, that those gentlemen Avho
proposed the passing, and consequently could apprehend no danger
from this extraordinary Act, may have the honour of defending the
frontier : that Ave northern people, when our money's gone, may be
secure of those feAV moveables that will be left us. I shall say little
about the Bill of Occasional Conformity which I presume Avill pass.
The fanatics, should it be rejected, cannot be obliged with less than an
unlimited poAver. They are the persons Avho, to my certain knowledge,
have no regard to the merits of' the Queen, at least all that I know,
and I'm sure I know too many. I suppose it won't be thought proper
to distaste the Church Party, Avho I'm confident are the only fast
friends the Queen has, and Avho, in all fortunes, will never be shaken,
unless treated Avith great disregard and coldness, and no advances made
for the preservation of the best of religions. For Avhat relates to the
Scotch Settlement of the Crown, it is no concern to me. May the Queen
last as long as I do. By this you'll believe that I don't wish her Majesty
a short reign, but be it short or loner, I don't wish to survive her. May
her General continue the same, Avho though he has had the misfortune
to lose his own heir, has however made us fortunate, since he can have no
other design but in making Fame his heir, to perpetuate his memory
and his successes to the security of our posterity.
1704, December 2. (Ashborne.) Captain John Beresford to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster.
I shall not fail to do my cousin Harpur and Mr. Stanhope all the
service in my power, but we have a loss of two in this place, one dead,
the other fled. I have met Avith some emissaries of Mr. Crompton in
this town ; hoAA'ever I think they would have found people here staunch.
I wish we had more of 'em. It Avas an omission that we had not an
extract of the poll book of the flying squadron of out votes, for it's odds
they will not be found Avhere they resided three years ago. They must
54 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
CokiMSS. now be hunted out with speed, in order to which I will write to Mr.
Heathcote. As to the town, I can contribute little ; I presume it is
already curried over by both parties. I spoke to the Jerroms, and I find
they lie under some disgust as to some charges last election, and also the
nomination of sheriff's men. I hope to keep them neuter, at least.
Tom Wright of Sudbury likewise pretends some disobligation about a
waggoner at Ticknall, wherein he suffered by the unfair dealing of Sir
John's agent. This is the time to hear of all faults and complaints ;
but the misfortune is some may better steal horses than others look
at 'em. My cousin William Hopkinson is gone to London and would
be glad to give his estate some respite by getting into some sort of place,
wherein if yourself and Mr. Curzon would favour him, 'twould be a
very great kindness both to him and me. He hath been bred to the
business of a pen, and I hope might qualify himself for a collection in
the Excise, or such a post as Mr. Hand's.
1704, December 8. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster.
I hope this frosty weather will clear the London air, and preserve
health to you and yours, and all friends, which I mightily desire and to
see you all safe in Derbyshire, Pray do me the favour to acquaint
Mr. Harpur that I had answered his, but I writ by the last post. I have
sent to those few acquaintance I have, but I cannot find them altered.
There is great industry used by the other side, and I guess open houses,
and the Recorder coming down, which I had sent him word of. I have
had much ado to make Cantrell of Newton. I do not perceive Mr.
Stanhope solicits. Mr. Garratt has Sir Nathaniel [Curzon's] orders ;
but whether Mr. Stanhope's, or Mr. Harpur's, or Mr. Curzon's letter to
Garratt would not do well, pray advise them. I hear the noble Marquis
of Granby stands for Grantham.
1704, December 16. St. James's Place. Thomas Coke to
Endorsed : " My Letter to Mrs. Grey about the Darby Election."
Madam, I scarce know how to presume upon giving you this trouble,
but that in desiring the favour of your interest in the town of Darby for
Mr. Harpur and Mr. Stanhope, who intend to offer their services again
at the next election there, which must be this year, I believe [ do a
service to my country. And that, Madam, I hope will obtain your
pardon for me, who, being witness of their behaviour in the House, can
say they have served their country with great faithfulness and assiduity.
And the zeal which your father had for such as did so emboldens me to
ask your favour to them in their present intentions : who, I am sure,
will think themselves very happy to be countenanced by your interest.
(1704, probably), Thursday morning. Matthew Prior to Thomas
Coke.
Dear Mr. Cook, Dr. Aldrich and Mr. Stratford will chatt an hour
too night with me. Stratford will have his master St. Johns for his
toast and if you will have the goodness to be mine I will tell you that
nobody is gladder you are Teller of the Chequer or more sincerely your
friend and servant then Mat. Prior.
1704-5, January 6. Knowlehills. Walter Burdett to Thomas Coke,
a Member of the Honourable House of Commons, Westminster.
. . . I despair of your coming into this country till your garden
invites you. Your woods have been as pleasant as woods could be
without leaves, being stored with game, though not of all sorts, yet
with plenty of some. Some neighbouring gentlemen have desired to
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 55
shoot and (against election time) I denied no gentleman that asked. coke MS8.
You have had many ducks upon your canal ; my boy at one time "*"
counted sixty. I don't know that they have been shot at, but they fly
about when the woods are disturbed, and come again. One day I
found somebody was in the wood who had not asked leave : I sent to
see and William Ratcliff of St. Bridgets Heath was found with a gun,
and had killed a woodpecker. He said he only intended to shoot such
sort of birds as jays and others with fine feathers for Mr. Harding's
daughters to work up : but I asked what authority he had to keep a
gun : he said he was Sir John Harpur's gamekeeper and had a warrant
under his hand and seal. Though this cannot authorize him to keep a
gun, I would have shewn so much respect to our good neighbour as to
return him his gun, if he would shew me that warrant, but I hear
nothing more of that warrant, and J have not seen Mr. Harpur since.
I told Mr. Harding that if he or any of his daughters desired the gun,
they should have it ; but they do not desire it, so that I have it in my
custody. Your neighbour John Cook the quaker has been ill.
Thursday last he ordered his boy to go for Dr. Bower, and as he was
going in Melbourne Common his mare dropped down dead, and before
he returned the master was dead too. He had not shaved his beard of
some considerable time, but ordered that it should be shaved as soon as
he should die. Your cousin Pool (Pole) has been very active in the
night at Derby to make interest for new members there, and one while
talked as if he had hopes of success for the town : but he says for the
county the devil cannot stir Curzon and Coke. Sir I wish you a good
new year, your gamekeeper chaplain and most humble servant.
1704-5, January 13. (Kings Newton.) Eobert Hardinge to
Thomas Coke, Member of Parliament at Westminster.
Pray, if you please, give Mr. St. Johns the inclosed note. I suppose
you have heard your neighbour William Coke is dead. I hope and
think Mr. Fulwood will be a good-humoured mau : but I would not
have anybody speak to him but yourself, when you come down, for by
that time 1 guess he will live at Melbourne.
Note inclosed. That the press warrants be out all the year, and that
the justices meet every month to execute it. That if no officers be
ready to receive them, they be sent to the gaol, and be allowed Ad., 5d.,
or 6d. per day till the officer come for them. Justices to be allowed
4s. a day, and clerks Is. That all people not having 40s. per annum
freehold, that shall be convicted before the three justices of any offence
about game be sent to gaol as soldiers. That the justices be judges
what men are fit to go and not the officers. That a list be yearly
printed and sent to Easter Sessions in each county of such masters of
ships as want apprentices according to the Navigation Act, that the
inland counties may have benefit by it. That every gaoler do monthly
give an account to the Secretary at War of what persons lie in his
custody for soldiers, their size and names, that those that are too little
for land may go to sea.
1704-5, January 13. Derby. John Harpur to Thomas Coke in St,
James's Place, London. Free.
I am yet at Derby, and find Mr. Parker's being before me here of
great disadvantage to my affairs. Many are engaged against Mr. Stan-
hope and myself, who would have been for us if our friends had been
as diligent as theirs, in making application early. Mr. Crompton's
interest prevails amongst the poorest burgesses ; who lends them small
sums of money to be paid him again by the week. But notwithstanding all
56 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. his tricks, I think my interest is at present the best : and Mr. Stanhope's
with management and his appearance amongst the burgesses will, I
believe, be full as good, if not better. We are in no danger of Mr.
Parker being one. What apprehensions I have are on Lord James's
[Cavendish] side. I intend to be in town the latter end of next week ;
but lest I should be too late to serve my friends, I desire you will be so
kind to take care Dr. Coke and Mr. Thomas Goodwin, when the
Annuity Act is passed, may have annuities secured according to the
particulais underwritten. I will order the money to be paid into the
Exchequer as the Act shall direct.
Dr. Coke desires 50/. per annum for his life and Mrs. Elizabeth his
wife.
Thomas Goodwin desires 30Z. per annum for the life of Samuel, his
brother ; and 20/. per annum for the life of Mary Goodwin his sister.
1704-5, January 15. Secretary St. John to Thomas Coke.
Dear Tom, My granmother is this morning dead ; so that I must
intreat you to take care of the Bill for naturalizing Mrs. Cadogan. It
is committed for tomorrow morning. You will settle the fees with
Joddrel, and wait on the lady down to Westminster. I am, very dear
friend, thine H. St. J.
1704-5, January 20. Oswestry. Richard Pope (the Elder) to
Thomas Coke, a Member of Parliament in London.
This may acquaint you that Mr. Fisher told me that you had a desire
to dispose of that small estate that you have in these parts, by reason of
the remoteness of it. In pursuance thereof I acquainted one Mr. Hunt,
that married the Lord Chief Baron Ward's daughter, that hath her
portion and a considerable sum more to lay out upon land. Mr. Hunt
hath acquainted the Lord Chief Baron, and viewed the estate : and he
told me he is willing to be the purchaser at the customary rates of the
country, both for the land and the houses : but he would rather buy the
land without the houses. Lands are sold here at twenty years' purchase,
at the most, some at seventeen and eighteen : and houses at twelve if in
good repair, and tenanted. But some of your houses want both. I
writ to Mr. Fisher that Mr. Hunt would proceed in the purchase,
but not hearing from him hath given you the occasion of this 1 rouble.
17045, January 21. Captain John Beresford to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament, Westminster.
I received your kind letter of the 8th instant ; and as to the contents
of it relating to recruits, I hope the officers in these parts will succeed
well and in due time, both as to the numbers they want or desire, and
the time limited by their orders, viz., the 15th of February. I hope all
the complaints of the execution of the late Act are not so considerable
as to debar us of the benefit of a new one, with such qualifications and
additions as shall be thought meet. For it would contribute greatly, I
think, to the reformation of manners both in servants and other loose
disorderly people, if the Act were a real terror to 'em, by the punish-
ment of some of those that desert, for example (as the pressed men are
.the most apt, and consequently the officers have the least mind of them)
and some pain upon the towns that openly receive and harbour them
upon desertion. Otherwise it discourages constables and others in
doing their duties ; and I could wish all deserters were strictly looked
after and sent to gaol, and thence fetched towards manning the fleet.
Then they could not well scamper, and might be as serviceable. I
heartily thank you for your kindness to Will. Hopkinson : and could
also have wished good speed to Mr. Henry Boothby, for I believe he is
HISTOEICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 57
hardly used at home. I acquainted him with what you desired, that you
feared he spoke too late. Upon discourse I find Sir William will give
him no encouragement in the world, which is pity, for he is a very
good humoured ingenious gentleman. I was in hope to have seen you at
Sessions, whither I crept with much ado with a great shoe for the gout
gave me a visit but made no long stay. I spoke to cousin Harpur at
Derby upon two or three points concerning the contest in Cheshire next
time, which I also beg your interest in, to procure Mr. Lister of Sysonby,
near Melton Mowbray, his interest in his lordship of Audlem in
Cheshire, where 29 votes were against, and but 3 for, last time.
Cousin Ifarpur says his circumstances are bad, and himself in the
Fleet, or absconded, and hard to be found. Sir Charles Skrymshire
hath likewise the direction of a lordship of Mr. Sneyd's of Keele, called
Willastpn, in his minority, where 9 were against. Sir John Harpur's
interest cousin Harpur I doubt not will send me a deputation for to my
cousin Tom Brooke, who 1 could desire might be the deputy conductor
of them all. I have presumed to write to Mr. Thomas Vernon, son to
Sir Thomas : but cannot much brag of my speed : he seems to adhere
to Mr. Oflley. who is a near neighbour to his lordship of Haslingden,
where above thirty went amiss before. Though I am informed that he
last time gave his interest to Sir George [Warburton] and Sir Eoger
[Mostyn] : I wish you could improve that point. I likewise informed
cousin Harpur that we were forced to be irregular in several of our
doings in the Office of the Peace in these parts, for want of people of
the quorum. We cannot hold privy sessions, nor do many acts there
without one such, and have none but Tom Eyre, whose company Ave
affect not : but he alone can supply all defects, and does singly in many
cases the office of two.
1704-5, February 6. Comptroll Office, Whitehall. Henry Cart-
wright to [Thomas Coke],
Yesterday morning his Grace the Duke of Marlborough set out for
Harwich, where he embarks for Holland. My Lord Treasurer is gone to
Newmarket. Mr. St. John is Secretary at War, but desires his friends
may not speak of it yet. The inclosed was delivered me by Mr. Whit-
field, who was ordered by the Duke to give him an account by the first
opportunity of ycur receipt of it. I heartily wish it pleasing news.
Just before the Commissioners broke up, I was sent for, Mr. Bromley
in the Chair, who gave me Mr. Vandere&ch his book, printed in Holland.
The Commissioners desired I would answer it in a very little time: but
if a man is to appe.ir in print, he ought to be very sure of his calcula-
tions, which are very many, and different sorts in this work. I am sure
I can do it effectually, but will not engage but by your approbation and
advice. Mr. King has seen and spoke to me several times to receive
80/. of him as salary. I have as often told him I served as a volunteer,
and as I at first told the Commissioners so, I could not go back : but the
whole affair I humbly submit to your pleasure. I would have sent you
Mr. Vanderesch's book, but I cannot get one.
1704-5, February 10. Michael Burton to Thomas Coke, a Member
of the House of Commons, London.
The season of the year drawing nigh for the Duke's going abroad and
the Parliament's rise makes me hope this memorandum of my affair not
unseasonable, and I still live in hopes of your favour. The last week I
received an account from Mark Bacon that you had received the small
present I sent you : I shall be very glad to hear it answers my expecta-
tion and proves as good as the last. Poor Mr. Wright of Eyam, a true
Coke MSS.
58 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. friend of yours, is dead and so is Mr. Brown of Wirkesworth. Our old
friend Mr. Balguy has taken the oaths to the Government.
170-1-5, February 28. Lisbon. Robert Littill to Thomas Coke in
St. James's Place.
When I came down to Portsmouth I found Sir Thomas Dilkes : I gave
him your letter and he was mighty glad to hear you was well. We set
sail the next day, and was driven back at night. The morning following
we weighed our anchor, and when we came over against Plymouth the
Hampton Court came out, and the Captain came on board the flag, and
I went on board in his boat. While I was on board the Revenge the
Captain and the Admiral was mighty kind to me : and the Admiral was
so kind, when my Captain came on board, to recommend me to him. We
are now safe arrived at Lisbon : we have brought all the fleet in safe,
and joined Sir John Leake, and today he hoisted his flag on board our
ship. We shall set sail the next fair wind for Gibraltar. We was but
eight days coming from St. Helens. I have never been sick since I came
to sea. The Captain hath been very civil to me.
(1704-5), March 3. London. Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke (at
Knolehills).
Not hearing from you nor out of Derbyshire last post makes me fear
your journey had some stop put to it in the way by the waters. . . .
Miss's journey holds as I told you in my last : she has sat the first time
for her picture with a great deal of good humour, but so very much
motion, that put Mr. Dahl upon great difficulty to catch her in the posture
he desired. Miss was to pay her duty to my Lord Chesterfield on Monday
last, and he increased her riches with a guinea to buy playthings ; and
has desired she should come and dine with him before she goes.
1704-5, March 20. (London.) Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke,
at his house at Melbourn in Derbyshire, to be left at Wilnferry.
Loughborow bag.
On Sunday the Doctor thought it time to put a stop to Miss her
ague with the Jesuits' powder: she has had no fit this two days. My
Lady Carnarvon goes next week. I was yesterday to wait of her but
she did not mention anything of Miss's going down with her : so 1 sup-
pose she concludes of her coming some time hence when she is
thoroughly settled with her new maid. Miss Mary Dakyne was taken
ill of an intermitting fever : I removed her from the nursery, and was
forced to send for the French maid, who Miss is very well contented
and pleased with. My Lady Harpur was here this morning, and told
us her going to the Bath was resolved for the second week in April.
My brother John and I found Sir Thomas Fanshawe grown so weak
that I fear he won't continue long. My sister Fanshawe is this day
gone with my cousin Margaret Fanshawe to Jenkins for some little
stay. I hope you are very near your journey towards us.
1705, March 30. Lichfield. Lord Stanhope to Thomas Coke, M.P.,
at St. James's Place, London.
I had a letter this morning from Sir Harry Gough, who tells me he
will stand for this place ; and my former obligations to him are a tie
upon me to assist him before any one else, except yourself who are so
near a relation. Therefore I desire you would tell Mr. Chetwind that
I am sorry I cannot serve him in this affair. I have no acquaintance
with Sir John Trant, only I promised a friend of his to mention this
thing to you : but you need not trouble yourself much about it.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 59
1705, April 7. Bolduc (Bois le Due). Captain Richard Pope to Ooke MSS.
Thomas Coke.
I am extremely obliged to you for the favour you did me of yours. I
designed in a post or two to have given you the trouble of a letter in order
to a correspondence during the campaign, in which I can only offer you
a true and faithful account of matter of fact, as things happen : not
doubting that you will have the original causes and reasons of motions
from several of your friends that are capable of diving deeper into them
than I am ; of which I am sure my Colonel will not be wanting to be
one. We are now likely to have a glut of vacancies, so many years
expected : and I fear they come too fast to catch them all. Captain
Prime seems to decline being Major, and to be weary of the service.
If so I must doubly beg your assistance. The first is that you would
write a letter to my Lord Duke of Marlborough, who I am sure will
have some thoughts of giving it out of the regiment, though I am satis-
fied I shall not want anything in the power of the Duke of Schomberg
or Colonel Sibourg. The second I should have been ashamed to be so
unreasonable to have desired of you, if I had not been encouraged by
your kind and generous offer to Colonel Sibourg on my. behalf.
(1705), April 8. London Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke, at Mr.
Burdett's house at Knolehills.
Your daughter left us yesterday in great joy to go to Wing. I can
give you but a very ill account of our proceeding as to her picture, for
there was no persuasions nor contrivance that we could think of could
prevail with her to be half a moment at a time in a posture. Mr. Dahl
tried an hour at a time twice, but the second time he said he found it
impossible to do it to his satisfaction, and therefore desired it might be
deferred till her coming to town again. My Lord Chesterfield is now
so well again that he can scarce find a complaint. People are going out
of town apace. My Lord Ferrers begins his journey on Monday next.
The town takes care of vou in your absence in providing you variety of
good places, which perhaps may be as great news to you as it is to us :
though since they are good, I should be glad of the certainty of it.
Your standish is done at last and will come to you by the carrier.
1705, April 9. John Beresford to Thomas Coke in St. James's
Place.
I am very much obliged to you upon Mr. Boothby's account, to
whom 1 have wrote by this post : he is in Hertfordshire, and will wait
upon you. I am very glad of the good news yours brought from Gib-
raltar, which rendered our public accounts more credible ; for we are
often baulked with fine stories we dare not believe without vouchers.
I am in hope Verona may hold out till Prince Eugene comes, if there
be any more trust in the Court of Vienna than that of Paris. I pre-
sume the issuing of the writs will bring you back into the country,
when I hope we shall be very easy and quiet. But your assistance
will be wanting to our friends at Derby. There is one William Street
of Ashover, and what care is taken of him I know not : but a line from
you to Mr. Hodgkinson I believe would secure him.
(170.5), April 18. London. Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke, at
Knolehills.
By the help of the warm weather and a new medicine I have taken
since I saw you I am, thank God, very much mended in my health.
Your daughter at Wing was very well when last I heard. I must ask
your approbation for Miss Betty's being weaned. She has not cut any
teeth a considerable time, and I remember it was the same with her
GO HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MS3. sister, that though she was a much stronger child she was backward in
that respect till she was weaned, after which her teeth came with a
great deal of ease. I have bespoke the glass for size as you directed,
and with a glass frame : they asked much the same for a gilt frame as
for a glass one, and I thought the glass much the handsomest. My
brother John dined with Sir John Harpur today : my Lady was so far
indisposed as to have Dr. Shadwell with her. I have not been to wait
of Mrs. St. Johns since his place. I find there is some little ceremony
paid to her upon it, which I hope to do on Thursday. There is match
concluded between Sir Richard Newdigate's eldest son, and Sir Thomas
Twisden's youngest sister.
1705, April 22. Thomas Hoy to (no address).
Madam, in dutiful obedience to your commands I present you with
the following account in writing. Having the place of Professor of
Physic in the University of Oxford, could I obtain the honour to serve
her Majesty in quality of one of her Physicians in Ordinary, or in the
Commission for the sick and Avounded, either of them would consist with
the duty of the post I already enjoy, and better support the character of
it, at present too narrowly provided for. 'Tis my happiness to have
your Ladyship for witness what rank of persons I have had the honour
to be entrusted by in my practise, with a tolerable success and reputa-
tion for many years. And I dare appeal from the best friend to the
worst enemy I have, with how much care I have always cultivated
those principles her Majesty has been graciously pleased so often to
recommend to us. This is the common duty of us all ; but, Madam,
that which makes me chiefly hope I may appear an object of her
Majesty's bounty is that since my advancement by the late king, and
some years before, I have employed myself in some laborious and
expensive studies, which in their happy conclusion may redound to the
advantage of the public : but in the meantime are an unseen burthen
upon my other affairs. . .
1705, April 23. John Harpur to [Thomas Coke].
If the writ come to the Mayor this week, the election will be at
Derby on the 3rd of May. I hope you will come down. I'm sure your
company will be very obliging, and it would be very prejudicial to my
affair, if you should be absent then. I hope for Mr. Sorocol also, and if
he knows any burgesses in London that would give their votes for Mr.
Stanhope and me, I should take it kindly if you would take this oppor-
tunity of seeing their Derby friends. Mr. Stanhope takes little pains,
nor has been at any expense ; which usage makes my affairs more
difficult than I expected ; but I believe all will be well with your most
humble servant.
1705, April 25. Oswestry. Richard Pope (the Elder) to Thomas
Coke.
According to your desire I waited on Mr. Hunt to acquaint him of
the contents of your letter. His answer was that since he spake to me
of the purchasing your estate an unhappy accident happened : the
gentleman he had laid out 1750/. upon a mortgage was dead. . . . He
is not willing to put a value on the houses being candell rents, and are
to be valued according to the condition they are in : and there must be
some better course taken to keep the houses tenanted and in repair than
hath been of late. . . .
(1705), May 8. N.S. Bois le Due. Captain Richard Pope to Thomas
Coke.
The garrisons of Breda, Huesden, Gorcom are now encamped within
half a mile of this town at the village Fught (Vucbt) : we shall join
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 61
them on Friday morning and march toward Ruremonde. 'Tis generally Cose mss.
said that we shall march towards the Moselle, and join the Hessians *"
and Palatine troops, and a considerable body of Prussians ; which army
is to be commanded by my Lord Duke, if the folk aforesaid appear,
which I must own I much doubt. We talk of nothing less than the
siege of Trionville. But how these things will happen, you may expect
an impartial account from your most obliged humble servant. I hear
there is to be a regiment of dragoons raised in England. If there be
any such thing, and the Colonel be anything you like I should serve, I
should be very glad to be Major to it; and I believe the matter will
not be very difficult, for few of my rank in the horse service will put in
f or it at least none in a better post, and none in the same have the
same pretensions, and backed by your recommendations to my Lord
Duke. I am the more desirous of it because there is like to be no
vacancy in our regiment as was expected : for if Prime sells he must
starve.
1705, May 17. London John Coke to Thomas Coke at Melborne.
. . . I was very much surprised to hear of my cousin Harpur's
ill success at Derby. A great many honest gentlemen have met
with the same disappointment. At the Hertfordshire election there
were 450 polled more than ever was known at any former election.
Mr. Freeman polled within eighteen as many as at the last election, and
Major Halsey above a hundred more ; so that we are very apt to believe
there were a great [many] freeholders made by the opposite party by
collusion on purpose to vote for this election. Sir Charles Barrinton
had the same fate ; he polled as many as ever he did, and yet he lost it
by a great majority. When I heard of the success at Derby, I was told
that thev talked of making an opposition for the county. Meeting my
Lord Scarsdale at Mayfair I told him what I had heard : he said he
would write down to his agents by this post to be upon their guard
against a surprise.
1705, May 28. Whitehall. Secretary St. John to Thomas Coke.
Dear Rake, I am glad to hear your election is over, your feavour
gone, and your worship is again upon the hunt : for what the devil can
carry you to the Bath at this time but a whore ? I had writ to you ere
now, but that I was more than a fortnight in the country, and since my
return uncertain how to direct to you. If you do not call att Buckle-
bury when you leave the Bath, you and I shall quarrel. I go down
thither on Fryday, but return the Monday following, and in about
- 10 days afterwards hope to be there for some time. I have little news
to entertain you with. The town is very dull, or I am so, for I have
not one bawdy story to tell of myself or friend. Really, Tom, you are
missed : whoring Hags without you. Lord Marlborough is got to
Treves, and I have a letter from him of the 27th ; but he will not be
able to act by ten days so soon as he expected, the Prussians, Im-
perialists and Germans not having inarched at the time agreed upon.
In the meantime the French have invested II uy and frightened the
Dutch out of their wits. As soon as he begins to move, I hope things
will take another turn. Dear Tom, divert thyself, continue to love me,
and be persuaded no man on earth is more entirely yours than Harry.
1705, ce 26 mo Juin. De Londres. Chevalier to Thomas Coke
Esquire to be left at Mr. Harrison's the Coffee man's upon the Walk
at the Bath.
Monsieur, Suivant vos ordresje vous envoie la perruque de crain,[crin?J
que j'espere que vous la trouverez bien. Si vous avez occasion pour
62 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. des perruques a Londres, j'ai les plus beaux cheveux de tout Londres, et
" comme cela ne se rencontre pas toujours, je pris la liberte de vous en
ecrire, a fin que si vous en voulez avoir, j'aurai le soin de mettre tout
ce que je puis avoir de plus beau. . . . Le nom du cocher est
Wilkinson aux Trois Tonnes a Bath.
1705, July 23. Robert Harley to Thomas Coke.
Sir, Several of your very good friends desire the favour to meet you
tomorrow being Tuesday at seven in the evening at Mr. Chancellor of
the Exchequer's house to discourse together of an affair of some con-
sequence. I am, sir, your most faithful humble servant Ro. Harley.
(1705), August 26. Camp at Ramay (Geest St. Reniy near
Tirlemont ?). Captain Richard Pope to Thomas Coke.
I am very much obliged to you for the favour you did me in remem-
bering me in Colonel Sibourg's, though I had not given you the trouble
of a letter this campaign : I waiting an opportunity of giving an account
of some coup-d'eclat, which I believe now will hardly happen this year
the action as well as the horses of the English cavalry being near an
end. The last thing that has been in agitation here was the attempting
the passage of the Ysche, which I believe will be pretty much talked
of with you in England. I don't remember lever heard of anything
that has so far divided people's opinions. Some called it very feasible,
and others wholly impracticable, and each support their opinion with
much warmth. You will wonder perhaps how folks sentiments should
be so very different, if you do not know our army is composed of two
sorts of philosophers. The first hold all things to be smooth easy and
plain ; the world in their opinion is like a bowling green, and one may
run over it without meeting with any rubs. The others are of quite
different principles, they make all things hard and rugged, they delight
in raising obstacles, making difficulties, will turn a molehill into a
mountain, and dry firm ground into a morass : yet such is their love to
mankind, that though his eyes were open, and the way good, they will
not let him go on for fear of his beating out his brains, or at least
breaking his shins. I shall not be impertinent enough to give my
opinion, where so great doctors differ, but give you as short an account
as I can of the French camp. They had on the flank and rear of their
right wing the wood of Soinies, the river Ysche all the way before
them, the banks toward their right very steep, a hollow way at a little
distance from the river, in which they put considerable detachments of
foot ; covered their centre with four villages lined with infantry.
Above the hollow way to the top of the hill was plain ground where,
and on their left, was most of their cavalry. The place of the easiest
approach I take to be the village near Ische (Neer Ysche ?). They had
two inconveniences in the ground a ravine ran from the river almost
to the wood, and made the communication between the right wing and
the centre difficult, and were obliged to extend two leagues con-
sequently, and must be thin in some places. Your most obliged humble
servant.
1705, September 11. Bucklebury. W. Stratford to Thomas Coke.
The friendship you have for this family will make willing, I know,
to take part in all that concerns them, even in their misfortunes. They
had a very heavy one on Friday last in the death of poor Mis. Winch-
comb. Her small pox were of the most malignant sort, would never
fill in any other part but in her head, and were attended from their first
breaking out with all the fatal symptoms. Mr. St. John was pleased
to summon me here on Thursday morning. I had the honour to
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 63
perform the last offices to her, as far as she was capable of receiving Coke M88.
them : but she had very few and very short intervals of sense after I
came there. I need not tell you that the great advantage the
master of this place has by her death does not in the least allay his
grief for it. She had made no will, by which means her fortune
comes equally between the two sisters. Mr. St. John is now at
Windsor. The ladies who are here are as easy as can be expected
while such a loss is fresh upon them. Mrs. St. John commands me to
give her sendee to you : I hope to be at Oxford again on Saturday.
1705, September 13. London. William Armstrong to T. Cooke,
Esq., at Melbourn.
I have been several times at Leveridge's lodgings, but he is not yet
come to town. As soon as he comes I will borrow the Opera Airs and
write them for you. I have sent all that are printed (being 8) by the
Nottingham coachman, and ordered him to leave them for you at the
Bull's Head Inn in Loughborough. He told me there are several market
people come from your town thither. ... I must beg the favour of
you to give me an order to whom you please for my small bill, for here
is little to be got at this time in my way. Sum 3/. 18*. 5d. I live at
Mr. Hillyards, next the Elephant and Castle, near White Hart Corner
in High Holborn.
1705, September 16. Bucklebury. William Stratford to Thomas
Coke.
. . . I am indeed as busy as you are, si magnis componere parva
licebit : and find that my best room, on which I design to be most
expensive, will not look as well as it may do without giving you greater
trouble than I durst have presumed to have thought of had not you been
pleased to encourage me to it. But upon measuring my room, it is
capable of receiving over the chimney a whole length : and if I may
hope for such an ornament, I shall pawn the credit of our treasury to
make the rest of the furniture as suitable as I can to it. Whenever I
receive the books and prints I shall hasten them to you wherever you
are : but I am afraid they will not come to my hands before your return
from the country. They were stopped at Brussells, and I do not hear
that my correspondent has received them. The good family here are
all, even the females, at your service : they are as easy as can be expected
while such a loss is so fresh.
1705, September 19. Whitehall. Secretary St. John to Thomas
Coke.
Dear Tom, The hurry I was in during poor Betty's illness and the
confusion of my family since her death, will I hope excuse me to you
if I have not writ since we parted. I have nothing from hence to
entertain you with. I grow every day less and less a man of pleasure,
and my last misfortune, which affected my body less than any of the
former, has made a deeper impression on my mind. I should be glad
to know what temper you find gentlemen in: whether they will think
it reasonable to support the Queen, who has nothing to ask but what
we are undone if we do not grant : and who, if she does make use of
hands they do not like, has been forced to it by the indiscretion of our
friends. The real foundation of difference between the two parties is
removed, and she seems to throw herself on the gentlemen of England,
who had much better have her at the head of 'em than any ringleaders
of fashion. Unless gentlemen can show that her administration puts
the Church or the State in danger, they must own the contest to be
about persons : and if it be so, can any honest man hesitate which side
64 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. to take. I shall be settled in tcwn in a fortnight. A month I suppose
brings you up. You will be welcome to all your acquaintance, but to
none so much as, dearest Tom, your ever faithful H. St. John.
1705, September 22. Scotland Yard. Samuel Lynn to Honble.
Mr. Cook.
Mr. St. John is at present very ill of an ague and fever ; but I hope
the worst is over. We have very little news from abroad : what there
is you'll find inclosed.
1705, September 24. Camp at Arschot. [Copy of a despatch.]
The workmen sent from the army to demolish the line between the
Neethe and the Deiner, being for expedition's sake augmented to near
five thousand, have already levelled all the redoubts, and made so
good a progress in the rest of the work that the whole will be finished
on Saturday next. We have had almost continual rain for three days
past, which begins to incommode the troops that are encamped in the
low grounds.
(In another hand.) The' taking of Barcelona is not yet contradicted
from France, the last letters from Turin left the Duke of Savoy in good
heart. If he holds out this winter, 'tis more than was expected some
days since.
1705, September 27. Albemarle Street. [Anthony Hammond] to
[Thomas Coke].
I have been in the country. The inclosed came to me last night : I
beg of you to return it. Mr. St. Johns has had a fever : I called today :
they told me he was better, but he saw no company. I told Mr. Br.
that Mr. H y solicited earnestly for Mr. Sm h, and attributed
the coming in of the Tories to his influence. You see Mr. Br. his
opinion upon that matter. I am afraid the choice of the Speaker will
be a greater struggle than was apprehended. Lord Windsor declares
against Mr. Sm h : and I hear today Mr. George Clarke will quit
his place, some say that he may be free in his vote upon that question,
but I have not any certain grounds that this is the motive. We give
credit in the City to the news of yesterday's mail from Lisbon, and that
Barcelona is taken. I make no doubt but it will be ours, though
perhaps this is a little too early account of it. Garth and I have met to
condole upon the late matches. He has been employed to speak to
Lady Peterborough for my Lord Mordaunt, who is terribly afraid of her
upon this small mistake he has made. That the City may not be out
of fashion in these follies, Mrs. Freeman, my Lord Delaware's mother-
in-law, has married her postman.
1705, September 28. Camp at Herentals. [Copy of a despatch.]
The troops that were detached for levelling the Lines having finished
their work, and joined their respective regiments, the army commanded
by his Grace the Duke of Marlborough and that of the States under the
command of Monsr. d'Auverquerc decamped this morning from Arschot
and came to this Camp ; the right being at Grobbendonck and the left
at Oevel. The enemy marched at the same time within their lines, and
have extended their left towards Lier. A regiment of dragoons and a
battalion of foot were this day sent from the army to reinforce the
garrison of Diest, and to put it in a posture of defence.
(In another hand.) Our news from Catalonia holds hitherto very
good ; the last letter from France advising that the whole had declared
for King Charles the 3rd, except Barcelona, and there the burghers had
taken arms to compel the garrison to surrender.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. G5
(1705), September 29. Mrs. St. John to Thomas Coke. Ccke_MSS.
Mr. St. John not being able to write himself, I am to return you his
thanks for your kind concern for him. He has been ill of a fever, but
now begins to mend pretty fast : and will I hope be able some time
next week to go into the country in order to recover such a stock of
health as may carry him through the winter. He supposes you very
busy among your country friends, and in your garden, and that you
will hardly be in town till his return from Bucklebury, which will be
about the 20th of October. I shall conclude by assuring you that I
am your humble servant Fr. St. John.
(1705), September 30. Christchurch, Oxford. W. Stratford to
Thomas Coke.
I beg leave to present my most humble thanks for the favour of yours
last. You will have your best friend and his lady to bear you company, and
I may then challenge any of [my] profession to shew such an apartment.
I suppose you have heard that we have been afraid of a greater mis-
fortune in that family than that which lately happened. Mr. St. John
himself was taken ill at London. His fever lasted about eight days :
I bless God it is over, and he is now returning to Bucklebury for some
fresh air. I believe you have now thoughts of returning to town. I am
afraid you will find very stormy weather there this winter. This
country is in the utmost rage. Next week a new race is to be set up
in Port Mead, near Oxon, in opposition to that at Woodstock, and some
design to continue it for the future on the very same day. I see no
possibility of reconciling the differences here.
1705, October 4. Ashborne. John Beresford to Thomas Coke.
My good friend Micbael Burton gives me the opportunity to join my
request to his for your interest and friendship in the case of Knares-
borough which will be a very great obligation upon us both. . . .
I could wish to know the terms of your Annuity Bill, that is now in the
House. It may afford some encouragement hi the provision for younger
children.
1705, October 6. Albemarle Street. [Anthony Hammond] to
[Thomas Coke].
The favour of yours of the 29th cf September found me at Milton in
Bucks, at Mr. Wotton's house, a relation and friend of mine. And
now I happen to name him, give me leave to desire you to read the
last edition of his Reflections upon Ancient and Modern Learning. I
believe it will entertain you agreeably enough, and I would have so
good a friend as you acquainted with a book that, by Mr. Wotton's
consent, I have some interest in. The inclosed I had this morning
from Captain Dolman of the Lyme. Scarce will Barcelona compensate
for the loss of the Prince of Hesse. Please to direct your letters to me
at the Navy Office. As I have been writing, the newspaper I have
sent was cried about the street. This day my Lord Keeper surrendered
the seals to Sir C. Hedges, who brought a warrant from Her Majesty
to receive the same. 'Tis said Mr. Cowpcr succeeds.
1705, October 9. North End. G. Granville to [Thomas Coke].
After having endured so much mortification of late upon the account
of my friend, it gave me a pleasure beyond expression to hear of your
heilth. Harry St. John has indeed been in a great deal of danger,
but I suppose by this time has himself given you an account of his
recovery. He is now at Bucklebury, from whence he writes me word
he gathers strength every day, and is preparing to encounter us in full
U SB973. E
66 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Com M8S. strength and vigour about the sitting of Parliament. I have hardly
seen London since we parted, and shall have little desire, or temptation
to see it till I hear you are there. I could be very well contented to
pass the winter out of the hearing of your politics. The pleasure of
heing with you and two or three more of our friends can only atone for
the burthen of so much disagreeable jangling as I foresee. Would to
God that you would make haste to town, that I might not be at leisure
to indulge myself in a way of thinking that makes me quite good for
nothing. All at .Northern! are entirely at your devotion. I am from
the very bottom of my soul, my dear Thomas, yours most faithfully
for ever.
1705, November 7. Sir Edward Coke to Thomas Coke at the Honble.
House of Commons in Westminster.
I heartily thank you for the care you are pleased to take about what
I made my request to you, and the hopes you give me still of effecting
it. The opposition that you may meet with from a certain lord will
then require a timely application to persons of the greatest interest at
Court. I am much obliged to you for your letters. I wish the con-
sequence of this Sessions of Parliament may be a safe and honourable
peace, and then an union will follow at home. Godfry Burton men-
tioned in the list of three is, I presume, a mistake, for there is no
Godfry Burton of an estate in this county that I know of. I believe
it was intended for Francis Burton of Weston, who hath a good estate
in land, and rich in monies.
1705, November 13. Gurcum [Gorkum]. Thomas Beresford to
Thomas Cooke, Member of Parliament, in St. James's Place.
I desire you to excuse my delay in not writing, for I thought we
should have had action after passing the lines : but the Dutch have
frustrated the designs of the Duke, or otherwise we had been masters
of all Flanders. All wish that the Duke may accomplish his designs
in Vienna in making peace with the malcontents. I have had but in-
different usage iu the regiment, for I was posted lieutenant the 8th of
August, and received pay from that time, and did duty in the regiment,
but the ensigns that were in the regiment before me, take post of me.
Mr. Cardinall [Cardonell] promised to antedate my commission, which
if he had done, I now had been one of the oldest lieutenants. I hope
I have behaved myself in the regiment as a gentleman ought. My
Colonell I believe will do me all the favour he can. If my Lord Duke
will give me a brevet as Captain, if there be action as expected, I may
get a company in this regiment, or in some of the old ones : which if
you please, when you think convenient, you may request of his Grace :
I doubt not but he will grant it.
1705, November 20. Suckley in Worcestershire. Heigham Coke to
Thomas Coke in the Exchequer Office in Westminster.
Having never as yet in my time had any relation in any considerable
post at Court besides yourself, and being destitute of friends at this
time, I now presume upon you to beg a small request at your hands,
that you'll use your interest with the Queen, or some of the Privy Council
to keep me off from being High Sheriff for the county of Worcester,
my name being first in the paper of Sheriffs in the Exchequer. There
being a Baronet of 4,000/. per annum next in the paper, who is much
better qualified for that office ; and I having but a small estate, and my
wife being dead but some months ago, my house this year being the
house of mourning, I hope I may be excused. Pray, cousin, do what
you can for me with some of the lords of your acquaintance, or some of
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 07
the great people at Court, and you'll infinite oblige him who is, sir, Coke MSS.
jour most affectionate kinsman and faithful humble servant to command.
If you please to favour me with a line or two, direct for me, to be left
at the post house in Worcester.
1705, November 28. Ham. G. Prendcourt to Thomas Coke, at
his house in Park Place, St. James's Street, London.
Never in my lifetime had I such a task as Mr. Festin's tunes did
give me, for they being set for a hautbois, I was obliged to transpose
'em for the most part, and at last I did overcome the difficulty. They'll
be finished within three weeks, and perhaps sooner. It is the question
now, if you'll have them transcribed into books, or in loose papers ; and
when they are done, if I shall send them to London or leave 'em at
Melbourn. I have a great desire to know from you, sir, whether the
Sonatas are liked, and if the Cascada and the rest are pleased. If so, I
have added more things to them, and composed two new sets to them ;
so that they'll make together a number which will fill a book almost.
And if you think it worth the while, I'll write 'em out and send 'em to
you, for to be writ out fairly. I shall stay at Captain Porfs till Wednes-
day next. My humble respects, if you please, to the ladies and your
brother.
1705, December 5. Bramcoat. Sir R. Burdet, Bart., to Thomas
Coke, at the House of Commons, Westminster.
. . . We in these parts have so melancholy a prospect of being
drained of all our money by the extraordinary taxes that fall upon us,
that I am persuaded it will be difficult for my neighbours to pay them
for this year. We have meat and drink sufficient, but we can receive
but little money, and consequently we cannot pay much. This is the
melancholy condition we are in and amongst others your servant.
1705, December 18. Derby. John Lowe to Thomas Coke, a
Member of Parliament, in or near Westminster, London.
Had I not been importuned by some of my acquaintance, your par-
ticular friends when the elections were for this county, I should not
have given you this trouble : and truly I think the request very reason-
able. 'Tis. only that you'll use your best interest with some of your
chief friends that an Act of Grace, or Free Pardon may be passed this
Session ; because I have not heard if this Queen ever passed one yet,
which has been usually done by other Princes. This would infinitely
oblige several persons to my knowledge. Direct your letter to me to be
left at the post house in Derby.
1705, December 20. Bosch. Captain Richard Pope to Thomas
Coke.
I was in hopes to have kissed your hands at London before this time,
but Colonel de Sibourg having done me the honour to have me here to
command the regiment (a thing as little my inclination as my interest)
has debarred me of it. We want as many recruits as last year, which
we should* never have been able to have got through, without the extra-
ordinary charity of your House, which we hear (in general) has been
very ample to us : but nobody has been so kind as to let me know the
particulars yet. We have now the pleasure to fancy the distemper is
over amongst our horses, very few having died within this three weeks,
and those brought it with them out of camp. Pray God send we don't
go into Germany to fetch it again. I cannot forbear giving you an
account that Mr. Sibourg has so far disobliged my Lord Duke of Marl-
borough, that he will hardly speak to him or look at him. If I could I
b 2
68 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. do not think it proper here to tell you how this has happened. I am
very sorry for it for my own sake, and the regiment ; and was very un-
willing to mention anything of it here, till I considered it was necessary
you should know it, to avoid giving into something too readily that
spleen may dictate.
1705, December 26. (Derby.) F. Turner to Thomas Coke, a
Member of the Honble. House of Commons, at his house in St. James's
Place, Westminster.
I received yours by the last post wherein you are pleased to mention
an objection that somebody has made that I have never a convenient
dining room above stairs. The truth is my Lady Shore had never a
dining room below stairs, and so was forced to make use of a chamber,
of necessity, which I shall not be obliged to do : and everybody knows a
dining room below stairs is more convenient. And my Lady Shore has
viewed my house and owns that mine is more convenient than hers ever
were, and is much my friend, and would serve me in anything she can,
and resolves not to lodge the Judges : else I would not have interceded
for it. I am sure, whoever he is that makes the objection is my enemy
and can assign no reason in the world for his objection. My rooms are
larger and better in every respect than my Lady Shore's, which my
Lady doth and will own. But I believe it's Mr. Dodson makes this
objection because he would not have the Judges lodge at the same
place where he is : but he is mistaken, for if occasion require, I can
have a dining room above stairs. But I am sure they will be w r ell
pleased with that below.
1705-6, January 21. Richard Hoare to Thomas Coke.
The writings of your estate that is in mortgage to me having been
examined by several lawyers, on behalf of gentlemen that have promised
to lend you a further sum of money, and all of them in conclusion
refusing to accept of the security, gives me just reason to believe there
is a defect in it. . . . In your letter of 2bth December you pro-
mised to pay the money on Wednesday following : and being dis-
appointed so often occasions me to think that if it should please God to
take away your life I may be put to a great deal of trouble and charges.
Therefore I am advised to have recourse to the judgment you gave me
so soon as privilege will permit. Sir, I having a great respect for you,
makes me give you this timely notice. I know you have friends that
can supply you with this money, therefore let me desire you to make
use of them.
1705-6, February 2. (Derby.) W. Turner to Thomas Coke in St.
James's Place.
Inclosed is a letter from my Lady Shore to my Lord Chief Justice
Trevor on my behalf, which I thought convenient to send unsealed
that you might see it before it was delivered. I am infinitely obliged
to you for your last letter. Mrs. Wilmott hath taken my Lady Every's
house : but the sheriff, to serve a turn this Assizes, would 4odge the
Judges in two of the little houses, that are small apartments from that
house, which have no manner of conveniencies, either for cellar, dining^
or lodging, merely to do me a prejudice. The under sheriff is a young
man, whose name is Heanes of Ashbourne : but he will not be in
London before the end of next week, and he must then wait upon the
Lord Chief Justice to give him a Calendar of the prisoners to be tried.
After you have read my Lady Shore's letter, be pleased to seal it up
and let seme of your servants carry it to my Lord.
I
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 69
1705-6, February 11. Bramcoate. Sir R. Burdet, Bart., to Cokb _J58
Thomas Coke at the House of Commons, Westminster.
. . . Your sisters remembering me I took very kindly, but am
incapable of expressing the respect I have for them. Most of our
country are concerned to observe the Parliament are now rising without
doing anything that can be pretended either to their ease or advantage.
Money may be given : where the advantage will be I cannot foresee.
The case of the people of England looketh unfortunately in the opinion
of our country and also of your servant.
1705-6, March 15. Lindsey House, Westminster. ("Parson")
David Thomas to the Honble. Thomas Coke, at his house in St. James's
Place.
I humbly beg leave to trouble your Honour this once (the last time)
more. I know very well it is the way of all these fine gentlemen that
belong to the Courts of Princes never to deny to anyone anything that
is asked of 'em : so that one cannot know whether one's request is agree-
able to them or not from their answers, which are all the same in every
case. But when any gentleman unmolested, unasked, unsought to,
shall of his own accord offer to serve an old acquaintance, then one is
apt to believe there may be dependence on such persons, let the manner
of the place to which they belong be never so refined, so peculiar and
delicate. Accordingly, sir, my Lord Abingdon sent me last year to
thank your Honour for offering so graciously of your own accord to
speak to Mr. Nicholas in my behalf; and he again sent me back to tell
your Honour you had it in your power to show kindness directly and
altogether from yourself to Mr. St. Johns, concerning the new raised
regiments. Your Honour remembers that you promised me the utmost.
You know very well, sir, how it was performed. Notwithstanding this
rejection, I did presume to wait upon you again this year, upon the occa-
sion of a vacancy in Colonel Churchill's regiment of Marines. You know,
sir, you promised to act in my concerns forthwith, and to send me word
how it went. I had more early notice of the vacancy than anyone ; and
if your Honour had early applied, I could not well have failed of success :
or if you had early denied me (which had been the next greatest kind-,
ness) then I could have applied elsewhere, and possibly it might not
have wanted success. But I never heard one word from you froin that
time to this hour. I humbly beg leave to signify two things to your
Honour, and that will be all. This place being a thing consistent with
my fellowship, anil in the nature of it almost a sinecure, it was the
thing of the world which I did desire, and had set my heart upon : and
it was as much to so mean a man as I am, and to one in my poor circum-
stances, as your Honour's great place in the Exchequer is to you, and
consequently the disappointment not a little. And that therefore,
secondly, your Honour has been the occasion of (so far) the undoing of
sir your most humble servant.
1705-6, March 18. Derby. Thomas Bott, Mayor, to Thomas Coke,
Member of the Honble. House of Commons, at his house at St. James
Place, London.
I had the honour as well as the felicity to receive your worship's most
kind and obliging letter. This comes to acquaint your Honour that the
troops did remove from Derby on Saturday morning last ; but it's the
common discourse that they arc to return to us this next Thursday :
which if it lies in your Honour's power (as it's verily believed) I would
in the name of my neighbours the Innkeepers (who is all the losers by
them, as I believe) humbly crave the favour at your hands that, if they
are to return to us, for their speedy removal from Derby. For without
7P HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke M8S- a ny ; flattery I write it, that the poorer sort of the inn, or the house,
keepers are almost ruined by them : and having the good assurance
from your Honour's letter, of doing all in your power to serve the town,
I do not in the least doubt thereof, but fully rely thereon. Pray,
honoured sir, pardon my prolixity.
. 1706, March 27. (Kings Newton). Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Goke, Member of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place,
London.
i i Now the Parliament is over, I make bold to acquaint you that I do
suspect you go on at much higher rates and prices than formerly : and
1 suspect they go on heedless. 'Tis you that must be the paymaster,
and therefore I very much desire that you would see to all the bargains,
TJ rates at London Bridge &c. will not do in our country. You will
certainly think me very impertinent to concern myself in your affairs.
Lhave no other way to be grateful for your repeated obligations, than
to.~shew a zeal for your good and welfare. Yesterday Mr. John
Burdett entered the marriage list at Griesely [Gresley] Church. Pray
my moat humble service to your honourable neighbours of Calke.
t,,1706j April 5, Derby. John Beresford, Henry Gilbert, Michael
Burton, to Thomas Coke, in St. James's Place, London.
About six or seven years ago one John Tatum was impressed for a
soldier in the Earl of Orrery's regiment, and turned over to Lieut.
Hixall. The case is thus. Tatum perhaps had formerly been guilty of
sometimes killing a hare, which had given some umbrage to a gentle-
man in the neighbourhood of Wirksworth : but at the time of his
impressing was reformed, and actually a hired servant to one Mr.
Hutchinson, one of the eminentest lead dealers in our County. The
man was very diligent and absolutely necessary to his master. The
matter was so managed that the persons who ordered him to be taken
up did not think it convenient to bring him before the Justices of
Wirksworth Hundred, but to those of another Hundred, viz. Morleston,
Sir- Charles Pye, Mr. Lowe and Mr. Cotchett, so that his master and
other people had not an opportunity to show that he was not within the
meaning of the Act. Now this man is not only a great loss to his Mr.
Hutchinson, but also to us who have subscribed this letter to you ;
being engaged in the drawing of some lead works of great consequence
which Tatum formerly worked at, and by whose direction we can almost
only depend upon to succeed. Our suit to you is that you will make
application to the Duke of Ormond for this man's discharge, he being
now in the Earl of Orrery's regiment in garrison in Ireland. Captain
Trott will take care of the order of discharge for us.
1706, May 10. Ashborne. John Beresford and Michael Burton to
Thomas Coke.
We received your kind letter relating to John Tateham's discharge,
who is a labourer so useful and wanting amongst the' miners, especially
the sough masters (in which art he excels) that we were obliged on
their behalf to solicit earnestly for him again ; and are very thankful
for your intercession. We remain easy and secure that you will find out
the most fitting season and methods to bring our Yorkshire Petition to
effect. We have had a rumour of late that my Lord Stamford was likely
to be restored in the Duchy : how far that might affect this matter, or
other dangers arise in the way, we must wholly submit to your clearer
judgment.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 71
1706, May 27. Christ Church, Oxford. W. Stratford to Thomas Cokh mss.
Coke.
. . . You may now have leisure to finish your fine gardens, and
when they are done you may sit in security under your own vines and
figtrees. I believe you have work cut out for some years. When your
gardens are to your mind, you will not long endure the eyesore of your
old house. I suppose this fine seat is designed only to please yourself,
for as to any design you may have on any lady there can be need of
nothing but your own person and address. I long to see your picture up
in my lodgings : the copy of an original that is so powerful may have too
its influence, and tempt some fair one to a place where I can never hope
to see them without so strong a charm. The ladies tell me you are still
very hard upon me. I hope in this time of joy, you are in good humour
at least, if not in charity (that indeed is a Christian duty) and that I may
desire an Act of Oblivion for no transgressions that I know of. I hope
E may prevail on the good ladies of Bucklebury to speak to you in my
behalf. I would persuade myself that you would not deny their
intercession.
1706, June 2. Christ Church, Oxford. W. Stratford to Thomas
Coke.
I hope the books are safe. I did not expect them by any merchant
ship : they will come I believe with my friend in the pacquetboat. And
if he should be carried into Dunkirk, if it continue in the French hands,
I believe he will have interest enough to secure this cargo. If my Lord
Marlborough should take Dunkirk, when they are there, I hope you will
claim what belongs to you. Don't think, Sir, that I won't see Melburn
before I am Bishop of Durham. If I should take your hint, you might
be pretty sure of never being troubled with me : but I hope to say grace
to you many a time there, before I shall bless you in it. If you will but
give me security that I shall continue here, I will sign a release of my
further expectations. You have voted us safe. As you are men of
honour, I hope you will think yourselves obliged to make good your
own vote : it will be your interest too to do it. Should I be dislodged
hence, I must come amongst my old masters, and be quartered upon
you by turns. Sir, I dare meet you at Bucklebury, and I will most
certainly wait upon you when I hear you are there. I hope too you will
be tempted to see Blenheim this summer. If you are I am sure you must
bait at Christ Church. I will do what I can to keep the College cool in
this warm weather, that the honour I desire may not be to your prejudice
elsewhere.
(1706), June 2. Camp at Meerlebeck near Ghent. Captain Richard
Pope to Thomas Coke.
I should have given you sooner an account of our famous battle at
Ramelie, near Tirlemont, if I had not been detached with a party of a
thousand horse and two thousand grenadiers to secure a passage on the
Scheldt, commanded by Duke Wurtemberg : but the enemy were so kind
to abandon it as well as the town of Ghent. Major-General Rosse is sent
with a body of horse and dragoons to summon Bruges yesterday, which
I believe will surrender immediately, the French having left no garrison
in it. We talk of forming the siege of Oudinarde, and hope to be able
to undertake Ostend and Newport before the enemy is reinforced
sufficient to make head against us. The confusion is still as great in
their army as can be imagined. The common people of the Low
Countries seem very much rejoiced at the change : the priests and
gentry but very reserved. The French court bullies pretend to reinforce
72 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. their army so as to drive us out of the country : where they will find
regular troops enough I cannot think. The Walloons and Spaniards
would desert them, if they could : and the Bavarians are quite tired with
braving French insolence, and would do the same if they knew where to
go. They left the town of Ghent without ever giving directions to the
magistrates what to do : and the whole management of their affairs
seems to be a scene of infatuation. On the other side, every one that is
not prejudiced must allow my Lord Duke acted the part of a very great
general in making a feint upon the right, which obliged them to reinforce
their left with twenty squadrons, and he at the same time drew all his
horse, except twenty-seven squadrons, from his right to the left, and
attacked their right with near a hundred squadrons. They were superior
to us in number of battalions and squadrons, but I believe their's not so
strong. AVe pass the Scheldt tomorrow.
1706, June 14. N".S. Camp at Arseelf (?) J. Brydges to Thomas
Coke.
Yours of the 24th May came safe to my hands, whilst I was at
Antwerp to wait on my Lord Duke in his return from the Hague. I
am very much obliged. to you for your kind congratulation in it, and the
satisfaction you are pleased to express at my having received no harm, is
such a mark of friendship that I shall endeavour to deserve it as long as
I live. My Lord Duke was received at Antwerp in the most solemn
manner, and with the highest marks of respect they could possibly shew
him, having for this end searched their records : and whatever was done
upon the like occasion to any sovereign Prince, they did so to his Grace.
There was one piece of ceremony which was odd enough viz. the
magistracy of the town marching before him with lighted flambeaux
(though in the middle of the day) which is looked upon as the greatest
mark of honour they can shew, and which they seldom, or ever, have
bestowed upon their Dukes of Brabant. My Lord hath ordered a
detachment of five English regiments, viz. Temple's, Stringer's,
Lalo's, Farinton's, and Mackartney's, and Mr. Overkirk marcheth with
25 battalions of the Dutch to invest Ostend tomorrow. They will be
joined by those Mr. Ross hath -with him about Bruges, and the rest of
the army will march in two or three days after them. My Lord Duke
received your letter to him very kindly, and intends to thank you
himself for it.
1706, June \\. Rensselaer. Duke of Marlborough to Thomas
Coke, M.P.
I should be ashamed of acknowledging so late your kind congratulations
on cur happy success here, if I did not asure myself that your friend-
ship, which I have experienced on so many other occasions, will now
excuse me, that I have by a constant hurry of business been hindered
from thanking you sooner for your kind expressions and good wishes. I
dare not defer it any longer for fear of falling under the suspicion of
being wanting to the true estime wherewith I am, Sir, your most
obedient humble servant.
1706, June 22. Bretby Earl of Chesterfield to Thomas Coke,
M.P., at St. James's Place.
Since my coming dow r n I have been free from the gout, but
yet for the most part indisposed as I use to be : and now my daughter
is gone from me I am become a perfect hermit, for nobody can live a
more solitary life. And since you are pleased to mention my gardens,
I will tell you that I was never less pleased with them, for my orange
trees are almost spoiled, as having neither fruit nor blossoms, nor
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION". 73
hardly any leaves : and the ponds of water I made for my waterworks
have lost all their water. These things might be counted disasters to
a person who sets up his rest in the country, as much as greater matters
to a person who is in the affairs and bustle of the world. But in my
opinion there is so little of that which men call happiness to be found
anywhere, that all conditions are almost alike, and I am sure must have
the same ending. The last night my son came to me from Scarborough,
and is so extremely deaf that I could not but be sorry as well as pleased
to see him. I hope that neither the public nor your private affairs will
detain you long in town, for there is great want of your directions at
Melborne, and your company is always desired by your most affectionate
father.
1706, July 15. Valencia. George Keightley to Thomas Coke at his
house in St. James's Square, London.
Since fate hath ordered our long stay in these parts, I only bless
myself with the thought of being so happy as to see one, who I ha\e so
many obligations to return to ; which I hope, since God has protected
me hitherto. There is no great danger, but my wishes will come to
effect. My design was to aive you a small account of the siege of
Barcelona, as soon as the French had raised it : but my Lord Peter-
borough, not knowing the motion of the enemy, commanded Colonel
Southwell's regiment to march forthwith to Lerida a strong garrison
upon the frontiers of Catalonia, to stay there till further orders. Now
my Lord has sent an order for our regiment to march to this place.
But our stay here, I believe, will be very short, for all Catalonia has
declared, all Valencia and Alicant, and most of the other parts of Spain.
My Lord Galway at this time and his army is encamped half a league
of this side of Madrid : and the gentlemen of that place has sent to
King Charles to make all the haste he possibly can. When the French
marched from Barcelona they was obliged to leave 107 pieces of brass
cannon, 5,000 barrels of powder, flour for their whole army to serve a
fortnight, 10,000 pair of shoes, besides arms and a great number of
clothes. For their men, they lost, killed and wounded, 8,000 of their
best men. I have kept a journal of our affairs, since our first arrival
in Spain, but you have had it from better hands, and I will trouble you
no more. Colonel Southwell gives his service to you, and told me that
if I had occasion for anything, you would not let me want it : but I
have received so many favours of that kind from you, that honour
obliges me to be silent. Colonel Vachell, Lieut. Colonel to Colonel
Southwell's regiment, and a very good friend of mine, and who has a
great respect for you, has promised to deliver this letter.
(1706), August 26. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to Thomas Coke
(in London).
Hearing you was gone to Mr. St. John's, I deferred writing. All
your friends are ready to excuse the matter of writing if you would
come in person, which is still the burden of the song with them. My
Lady Harpur tells them you have stayed in expectation of an address,
and it would make you smile to see how much they are put to it whether
to take her in jest or earnest. My lady this day sets forward towards
the Bath, which I hope she will find the good effects of. We dined on
Saturday last at Knolehills to meet Lady Catherine and Mr. Clarke,
who are both very well : my Lord Chesterfield threatens the keeping
them at Bretby till he goes to town. I heard lately from Wing that
Miss is very well. Your little gentlewoman here is very much im-
proved with sucking asses milk, and fresh air. But we are all in danger
Coke MSB.
74 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Xoxb MSS. by the temptation of your fruit, which we have in much greater abund-
ance than we can dispense with ourselves ; and therefore I have disposed
of some to those of your neighbours that have no walls of their own.
Some peaches of the same trees that you despised last year are excellent.
Nectarines are also very excellently good this year ; and there has been
a few figs in great perfection. I hope to preserve half a dozen hanging
on the tree for your tasting if you keep your word with us. Your
gardener desired I would give you a description of the size and good-
ness of Sir Charles Owsley's plum, which was stark nought : it was a
very wet time when it ripened which is all I can say in its behalf.
But there is some peaches, which Mr. More says came from Brompton
Park, which deserve commendation. Indeed your gardens are more
than pleasant. And there is the plantation of elm arbor, which I am
sure will surprise you by its growth. The greens in general are in a
very thriving way this year, and with very little pains of watering. I
suppose Mr. Cooke has been with you, and therefore I might have
spared my account ; but you know my infirmity of scribbling. I must
add the reminding you of the poverty of your wine cellar. Your ale
and cider have both been in such perfection that upon choice we have
made the less use of wine ourselves : but some red wine must have been
spent, and I have been forced sometimes to make use of your sack for
our ladies. We have lived pretty retired at home this last week, many
of our neighbours having entertained themselves at the horse race ; and
some are this week going to the Mansfield race. Sir George Parker
won the first plate, and my Lord Granby won the last day's race. My
sister is your servant, and your daughter gives her duty, and talks as
much of your comiug as the best of them.
1706, September 17. E. C. [Sir Edward Coke] to Thomas Coke, in
St. James's Place.
I received the favour of your letter with the most welcome news of
the entire defeat of the French army in Italy. There remains nothing
more than that the news from Spain should come confirmed to make
this the most glorious campaign that ever was. These surprising
victories may let the grand Louis see that the blood royal of France
running in the veins of the Dukes of Orleans and Vendome does not
form the hero wiser and braver, nor make him a greater favourite of
heaven : and methinks the high compliments made to these gentlemen
in their patents for Generals of the two Armies does not now sit upon
them, nor their royal master, with so graceful an air. I am afraid we
shall not have the honour of your company this year in the country, the
winter season approaching : but I do not doubt but that so much as the
charms of love, music and books can make one happy, you have not
been less so this summer : and pray should I not have some reason for
this belief, if I had been with you sometimes in your rural retirement.
Sir, I have a request to make to you that you would "please to apply
yourself to Mr. Baron Price (who came our circuit) that he would give
order to have my name left out of the list that is to be given to my
Lord Keeper at this Michaelmas. I waited on Mr. Baron at Derby
and dined with him, so if you please you may give him my service. I
am to thank you for your favour of franking my letters.
1706, October 30. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament, at his house iu St. James's Place,
London.
Mr. Fisher was speaking something to me about selling Gorsty Leys,
as if there was upwards of 2,000/. in it. If so, 'tis my judgment to
HI8T0BICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 75
divide it into four haggs, and sell one hagg firet, and so every year one, Coke MSSi
till all is sold. And I think that is as much as will be sold well in any
one year. It will in four years be sold as much dearer as will answer
more than the interest of the money. Your underwood must be cut up
by Christmas of so much as you sell the timber off. You know Robert
Littill went on board the Hampton Court with Sir John Leake. I per-
ceive Sir John is come home on board the St. George. Pray enquire
after him, because this spring, if all be well, entitles him to a midship-
man, or higher.
1706, November 6. (Kings Newton.) Robert Hardinge to Thomas
Coke, Member of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place,
London.
I was to see your ruins at the bridge. I think it must be till the
spring, and then made another way and cheaper. If Mr. Fisher paid
Jonathan for valuing [Gorsty Leys] as I suppose he did, the marking
money will come to a great sum at 12c?. per pound. So I think he
should bargain with Jonathan about that for your advantage, beause in
the whole sale, it will come to 100/., and better. I only give you a
bint. Those that have the marking money must stand to the collecting
the wood money, and hazard.
1706, December 2. John Harpur to [Thomas Coke].
I am so very much solicited by Leonard Bacon's friends to write to
you to make interest to save his life, that I could not avoid giving you
this trouble. He was committed to Newgate last Tuesday for robbing
a gentleman of a gold watch, as I am told. I know nothing more of his
case, but hear be is in danger of losing his life. His friends are very
numerous and of good degree in Derby : and if you will please to use
your interest to save him, you will much oblige them as well as, Sir,
your affectionate and humble servant.
1706, December 2. Richard Husband to [Thomas Coke].
I was at Whitehall today, and got from the. Signet Office a copy of
the Privy Seal empowering Queen Catherine's Trustees to make a lease
in reversion to Prowse for 40 years after the determination of Freeman's
lease. But want the Sign Manual of King Charles 2, empowering his
Queen's Trustees to make a lease of the premises to Ralph Freeman for
31 years after the expiration of 7 years granted to Col. Vernon. I am
told the sign manual remains in the Paper Office at Whitehall, and that
Mr. La Faye (it is the person who writes the Gazettes) has the custody
of those papers. If the paper is there, you will yourself readily get a
copy.
1706, December 23. Michael Burton to [Thomas Coke].
... I am very sensible of the obstructions my Knaresborough aflair
has met with, notwithstanding your kind and repeated endeavours to
serve me in it : and have therefore set my head to help that cripple
over the stile ; and if possible acquire some further premium for the
services I shall propose. ... I have never thought it criminal,
with an unwearied diligence to follow after such measures as might
honestly save me of the weight, which like that of original evil still
depresses and sinks a man, in spite of all endeavour without the
influential aid of a kind and regenerative; friend, to set him upon a calm
basis, with which 'tis too often true, Probitas laudatur et alget. Sir,
ever since I had the honour to be known and favoured l>y you, I have
upon all events met with that candour and kindness from you, which
has for ever endeared me to you by the greatest personal atl'ection, as
76 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. well as respect and esteem in your public capacity. . . . This
Sir has been the great motive, why I have been from time to time so very
importunate with you in my former affairs, as I hope it will prevail
with you to lay on a helping finger, and not see one so faithful to you
suffer : but because it would be inexcusable to be wanting to myself by
leaving any stone unturned that may accomplish my moderate desires,
I have drawn up a scheme (which shall be produced when you command
it) whereby I propose and Avill undeniably demonstrate that I can raise
the Queen for ever an annual revenue of 25,707/. the raising whereof
shall no ways prejudice or inconvenience the subject, but on the
contrary will bring in and circulate amongst the public an annual
income of 38,561/. : so that the whole to the Queen and Country will
amount per annum to 64,268/. . . . Sir I beg you'll not slight this
proposal as a shallow superficial thought, for I have laboured to bring
it to perfection with a great deal of diligence. It has had the approba-
tion (so far as it was proper for me to communicate it) of the most
prudent and judicious of my country friends : the whole country will
unanimously run in with it : and if it be completed w r ill be for your
interest on such a basis in your own country, that it will not be in the
power of malice or calumny to oppose you. And as to my own
particular, I desire no other reward for my service, but what shall be
very moderate, and to be paid me out of that revenue I propose to raise,
if my former affair must be denied me. ... If I could obtain the
Attorney General's place of the Duchy of Lancaster, I durst undertake
in a few years time to double the revenue of that Duchy, for I have
made the matter a great part of my study, and I know that revenue as
to its management and mismanagement as well as any man whatsoever.
I beg you will let me hear from you, because that will convince me
that what I offer has some weight with you.
1706, Christmas Day. Waiter Burdett to Thomas Coke, Member
of Parliament, at his house in St. James's Place, London. Free.
I think it the greatest civility to say the least to one in your
post. Therefore only wish you a merry Christmas, and cry out first
by complaining that you have not given me joy of my new honour of
being chaplain to the Queen's Vice Chamberlain, and told me how I
might entitle you upon a letter.
(1706), December 26. John Beresford to Thomas Coke.
I am now troublesome to you on behalf of my brother Arderne, to
beg your countenance to his Bill that lies before you. It was his
father's misfortune to suppose he could do more than he took care to
do, and so left my sister and three brothers unprovided for, besides
sureties for considerable debts, amongst whom is your friend, the scribe.
Now my brother Arderne is generously desirous to provide for all these
occasions, and we do entirely confide in what he proposes. He has met
with no difficulty of assent from anybody, but his father's friend and
his own blood, Sir John Crewe, and all upon distaste about the Cheshire
election. Sir John would have the glory in Cheshire of securing by
his assent the payment of Sir John Arderne's debts and in a short
limited time. Now my brother Arderne (who does as piously and
worthily intend it as any man in England) would have the thanks of it,
and reasonable time to take his best chapman, and not sell to
disadvantage, all which we that are concerned do readily and reason-
ably allow. I take the freedom to tell you the whole story. I once
mentioned to you the putting my cousin Henry Beresford of Doveridge
amongst the Commissioners for Land tax. He is a very well principled
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 77
honest gentleman, and hath a good estate among us : he is called to the CoKE MSS -
bar, but loves a quiet life. Sir John Crewe is consenting at last. I
only mentioned the thing to show how the malevolence of a party can
affect and sour a man's temper. The Bill comes before the Committee
on the 30th instant.
1706, December 31. J. Pagett to Thomas Coke at his house in
St. James's Place.
This comes to intreat you to send me word by the bearer whether
there will be a song performed before the Queen tomorrow, and if so,
where and at what time of the day r Your information in this matter
will oblige your very humble servant.
1706 (probably). Thomas Coke, M.P., to the Duke of Marlborough.
My Lord I durst not trouble your Grace with a letter till you had
some recess from the fatigues you had undergone [in] your long
campaigne. But now I presume to hope a letter may not be trouble-
some, and that I may venture to congratulate your safe arrivall at the
Hague, believing this will find your Grace arrived there from the army :
in which every year you render them more oblidged to you for a larger
frontier. And I wish they were so much their own friends as to lett
their arms be guided by your Grace's happy conduct. Their wishes
would then be crowned with what their fears have hitherto deprived
them of, and wee here in Engl And should have the pleasure of seeing
Flanders and Brabant not such secure barriers to the French as they
have hitherto been imagined
170G-7, January 3. Alfreton. Row. Morewood to Thomas Coke,
Member of Parliament, London frank.
Sir I lately received a letter from the Speaker of the House of
Commons, directed to me as High Sheriff of the County of Derby, the
copy whereof I send you that you may be acquainted with the contents
thereof.
(Copy of the Speaker's letter.)
1706, December 24. From the House of Commons.
Sir the House of Commons having taken notice of the absence of
several of their members, I am commanded to acquaint you with it,
that you may give immediate summons to all the members of this
House, Knights, Citizens and Burgesses within your county to attend
their service in Parliament on Tuesday the 14th day of January next.
The House of Commons intending to proceed further with all severity
against all such of their members as shall then neglect their attendance.
And you are to give an account of the receipt of this, and of what you
have done thereupon unto Sir your humble servant,
J. Smith, Speaker.
(1707), August 2. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice-Chamberlain
Coke].
. . . I heartily wish you success in what occasions your stay. I
received a letter last night from Wing, which I have inclosed,
notwithstanding you told me your design of going, which I hope you
have not been prevented. I pleased myself with believing that if you
went to Wing you would meet Lady Catherine Clarke : I know she
would be extremely glad, as well as yourself, with the unexpected
meeting. Your daughter Betty is very well, and some degrees improved
in unluckiness since you saw her. ... I must not omit telling you
how highly we have been favoured by the Curzon family, Sir Nathaniel
78 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Com MSS. himself, lady, sons and daughters all came about a fortnight since and
dined with us : and since we all met again one day to dinner at Newton :
and one evening Mr. John Curzon with cousin Burdett of Foremark
came and supped with us, and he is extremely full of inquiry after
his brother Coke's coming down. Mrs. Burdett has been most at
Bramcote, so we have seen little of her ; but my Lady Harpur is so
obliging that we are very sociable neighbours. I don't know what to
say of your gardens, but as I use to do, mighty pleasant and sweet, and
as to the keeping, very few faults to be found, not but that when you
come, you will find a great many things botli in the gardens and out,
that would be rectified by a master's eye over them. I was to see your
ironwork, which is certainly very fine, and a great curiosity to see the
manner of their doing of it. He says he shall now soon have finished
it. The Great Pool stands very high of water, but the weeds are
increased for it is almost entirely green over. I heard that there was
a man came to the town, and offered to give five pounds for the flags
and take them away himself. I own I thought five pounds not to be
despised, especially to be eased of an inconvenience, and therefore, if
you approve, I will inquire further into it. I am rich in beauties both
of the great and small kind of hens, and pretty well for the number of
Muscove ducks : but there is a great want of some tolerable convenience
for both sorts. My Lady Harpur is set up for a hen housewife this
year, my Lady Ferrers having given her a stock, and Mrs. Burdett also :
but she has had such ill luck, she has begged a recruit from me.
Yesterday was a race between my Lord Berkshire and cousin Robert
Burdett upon Sinfelmore [Sinfin Moor] which drew most of the company
together that are of this side the country. My cousin Burdett's horse
won it two to one against him. And after this was over, a new match
was made between Lord Berkshire, Lord Cullen, Mr. Warren, and
Capt. that is at Derby, which Mr. Warren won. And the last, which
I hear occasioned the most diversion, was a match between my Lady
Harpur and cousin John Burdett, my Lady's little strawberry horse, and.
the mare of cousin John Burdett which you gave him : my Lady had
the victory, by the fault of cousin Burdett's groom who got so far into
the crowd he could not get out again. Dear brother, I fear I have
quite tired you with my impertinence.
1707, September 11. London. Sir John Stanley to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
Pursuant to your directions I send enclosed a Warrant for the Knight
Harbinger, or his deputy, to provide lodgings at Newmarket, which I
desire you will give Mr. La Roche, when you have signed it. And a
list of the Gentlemen Waiters that my Lord Chamberlain may appoint
their months of waiting. . . The letters to the Green Cloth, and Board
of Ordnance for the waggons, shall be ready when my Lord Chamberlain
-comes to town. I desire you will mark on the paper the alterations my
Lord would have in the list of those that sit at the Gentlemen Waiters
table, and send it to me, that there may be no mistake, and I will prepare
a warrant upon it. I have sent to Mr. Bracy to go into waiting. I hope
you will prevail with my Lord to defer his suspension, till his new
regulations be out, and then to keep to it strictly.
1707, November 5. Carlton. G. Palmer to the Honble. Thomas
Cook, Esq., at the Lobby of the House of Commons.
The generality of the gentry have recommended me to the free-
holders [of Leicestershire] to represent them in Parliament. I desire
yonr approbation and interest.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 79
1707, November 10. Ralph Docksey to the Rt. Honble. Thomas cokb MSS
Coke.
I hear I am one of the three nominated to be sheriff lor this County
[Derby] which much surprises me, being very unfit to bear such an
office . . . my estate being at best worth but about 300/. a year,
200/. of it settled on my wife ; and the other 100/. a year, there is a
debt of 1,000/. owing to Sir Nathaniel Curzon, so that the bearing of
that office will, at this time, be the undoing of me, I having a numerous
family, my wife being big of the thirteenth. This is to desire the
favour of your interest to get me off. ... I have desired my good
friend Captain John Beresford of Ashborne to write to you in my behalf.
(1707 probably), Saturday, 12 o'clock. James Craggs to Thomas
Coke.
I am sorry I could not have your company today to Windsor : the
Controller cannot delay it till tomorrow. I have sent you four tickets
which I fancy you'll be willing to dispose of for the encouragement of
so hopeful a beginner.
Inclosed. Three small playing cards, having on the back of each
" June 26th The Amorous Widow or the Wanton Wife. The Box.
For the Benefitt of Miss Mountfort and Miss Evans," and an impression
of a Roman head in red sealing wax.
1708, March 25. Richard Husband to the Honble. Thomas Coke, Vice
Chamberlain to the Queen's Majesty, at his house in St. James's
Place.
Being at a Coffee house this morning, I read the written votes, which
seem to say that a message came from the Lords to the House of
Commons, that all proceedings in law written in the French tongue
should be void. How far such votes, or when reduced into a law, will
affect Acts of Parliament, written in the French tongue, I must refer it
to you to consider, the Act 3 Henry 5, being in French, recited in the
Auditor's Report. I beg you would direct your servant to get the letter
I sent you directed to my son into the Earl Rivers bag : and if your
leisure will permit you, to write two lines to Colonel Hill or Lieut.
Colonel Clayton, in favour of him.
1708, May 17. -De Matveof (?) [Muscovite Ambassador] to M. le
Vice Chambellan.
Ayant beaucoup de confiance dans votre amitie, dont j'ai vu des mar-
ques, et vous suis oblige infiniment, je prends liberie de vous faire
incommodite par ma presente au sujet de la maison qui m'est accordee
gracieusement par Sa Majeste la Reine. II vous est connu, Monsieur,
qu'on Palouee il y a deja sept semaines, pour m'en faire jouir la posses-
sion, mais j'etois bien surpris de l'avoir vu avant hier dans un etat qui
ne promet pas l'accomplissement des meubles, et la re3tauration de
l'office a moins de quatre semaines encore, si on s'empressera si douce-
ment qu'on a fait jusqu'a present. Le tapissier Bedfort dit que ce
n'etoit pas ses affaires, et qu'il ne sc meloit que des meubles, moyennant
son contrat. Au contraire le Maitre d'Autel (hotel) de Madame
Clergis (Clarges ?) assure que le raeme tapissier etoit oblige de faire la
restauration. . . . L'offre que dit tapissier m'a fait faire de lui re-
signer l'ecurie en recompense de la restauration de l'office est un visible
marque de son avidite, voulant que je disposasse si inconveniement de
la bonte de la Reine, en lui laissant ce que j'aurai peutetre besoin moi
memo a l'avenir pour mon equipage. C'est pourquoi, sachant bien
qu'on peut remedier en tout 9a par vos ordres, je vous prie amiablemeut ct
instamment de vouloir commander au dit tapissier qu'il fasse son devoir,
80 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. et depeche de mettre cette maison dans un etat accomplie par des
meubles et la restauration tie l'office, en quittant son profit inconvenient^
afin que je puisse jouir de la grace de saMajeste la Reine, dont je [suis]
depourvu si induement jusqu'a l'heure qu'il est. Et comrne la justice
de ma presente demande est tres claire, il ne me restera que de me
recommander a la continuation de votre amitie, et de vous prier de me
fournir les occasions pour vos services, que j'executerai avec autant
de promptitude, que je suis avec d'estime et de la passion, Monsieur,
yotre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur.
1708, June 5. H. Boyle to Mr. Vice Chamberlain Coke.
I received the honour of your letter of the 31st of May, and according
to your commands have laid before the Queen, and am to acquaint you
that her Majesty has no objection to your visiting or paying any civility
to Marechal Tallard.
1708, September 8. Endorsed by Vice Chamberlain Coke " Colonel
Sandys."
Waiting for Her Majesty coming out of Council, finding the Groom
of the Privy Chamber not at the door, nor near it, and the Queen
coming out. I ran to the Privy Chamber and called for the candle: then
I went back again expecting it. Afterwards I saw his man coming
into the room with the candle. The Queen being so nigh, I bad him
bid his master bring in the candle. The Queen being come out of the
Council Room, and the Vice Chamberlain looking about (as T suppose)
for the candle, the Groom went on the back of the company, and gave
the Vice Chamberlain a little candlestick off one of the stands ; so my
duty was done by the Groom, and I know not who did it. Which
business of giving the candle was decided in the late Lord Chamberlain's
time the Gentleman Usher to give the candle to the Vice Chamberlain,
and the Groom to give it to us which has been done ever since, and was
thought a credit to the Groom. Formerly telling the Groom of the
neglect, he told me not anybody minded what I said, and that lie valued
not of a farthing what I said, and that he knew not whether it was his
business to give me the candle, or no, and that he was to wait in the
Privy Chamber. But that is when no other business is required, and
this is all they do very nigh, besides seeing their man light the candles,
which if not done in order the Gentleman Csher is answerable for it :
if so, 'tis very hard to suffer this. This happened in the Privy Chamber
the next day before two Gentlemen of the Family. I forgave one of
them on the like occasion, at the desire of several Gentlemen then at
dinner. I suppose this was the reason he told me I was always making
disputes. I cannot have disputes but on these occasions with them ;
when the giving the candle was decided on a dispute. I suppose he told
Mr. Harrison it was below his post, and that it was never done formerly .-
but we have obeyed ever since. I have reason to say this, for he told
me the same thing.
(1708, probably), September 26. Bretby. Lady Catherine Clark to
Thomas Coke, M.P., at his house in St. James's Place, London.
I do esteem myself very happy, dear brother, in the continued marks
of your kindness. . . . My father orders me to return you his humble
thanks for your letter . . . We hope soon to see him out of his chamber,
and then shall think of returning home, though my father is so much
alone that he is pleased to tell us he cannot well be without us. We
still live in hopes of seeing you in Derbyshire, but wherever you are >
I am sure my best wishes will ever attend you. Sir Edward Littleton
with one of his sons and my brother Stanhope are now here, which
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 81
-makes me design taking that opportunity of waiting upon Mrs. Cokes
tomorrow, for though I have lately been there I cannot too often have
that satisfaction. We have not much news except of a late dispute
between Lord Culling and Lady Bellamount, which occasioned the first
to take his Lady from S war son in a huff. But we hear there is like to
be an accommodation through Mr. Harpur and Mr. Warren's endeavours.
I suppose you hear of the confusion there has been at Derby about
interest for elections. They say Sir Thomas Parker did entreat Lord
James Cavendish (who was there) to make his exit, for that his presence
was like to do more hurt than good, so that his Lordship took his advice
and is gone. Mr. Clark is your humble servant, and T must say that
I look upon the continuance of his friendship to you as a particular
mark of his kindness to me, which I thank God he is in every respect
ready to show, and convinces me upon all occasions that I am as happy
as any lady can possibly be in the change of my condition ....
1708, September 28. Spithead. Sir George Byng to Mr. Secretary
Burchet.
Lieutenant Collier, who was this day tried at a Court Martial relating
to the loss of the Thomas and Catherine smack, when he was lieutenant
of the Severn and taken into France, has been twice taken and is now
only on his parol. This case (if you please to inquire into it) will seem
very hard with an officer of fortune, who has only the service to depend
on. I would pray leave to recommend him to the favours of his Royal
Highness's Council. I am entirely a stranger to him : but justice
obliges me to recommend such officers as fall in my way, whose
characters are so fair as this gentleman's seems to be.
[Indorsement by Vice Chamberlain Coke. "He has received but 13
" months pay during five years, by reason of his having been twice
" taken and his last misfortune."]
1709, June 7. W. Stratford to Vice Chamberlain Coke.
The inclosed list has the best editions of those books you were pleased
to command me to enquire after. The Louvre edition of Tasso for
beauty and the pleasure of reading is preferable to any other. The
Genoa edition is most valued by the critics. In the other books the
editions in Italy I think are most valued. I never met with any edition
of the Filli de Sciro but that of Ferrara. The renewal of the war will
prevent my having some so soon as I hoped for from France ; but I
shall write to Leers (?), when he completes my set of the Louvre
editions, to send me a Louvre Tasso for you.
1709, July 12. Windsor Castle. Duke of Somerset to the Rt.
Honble. Mr. Coke, Vice Chamberlain.
Her Majesty hath commanded me to let you know that according to
the Lord Chamberlain's warrant the Jewel Office hath provided two
gold cups to be run for at Richmond and Black Hamilton ; and that as
the one is already ordered to be delivered to Mr. Darcy, the other is to
be delivered to Mr. Marshall by your order to Mr. Charlton.
(1709 October 17, postmark.) (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to the
Rt. Honble. the Vice Chamberlain at his lodgings at the Palace at St.
James, London.
I have been in daily expectation I might have the good occasion of
writing to give you joy: but have the melancholy one of telling you we
have lost our kind friend and neighbour, Mr. Hardinge, who died on
Thursday evening. I was with him a very little time before he died.
He desired very kindly and particularly to be remembered to you, and
U 58973. v
Coke MSS.
82 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. with great assurance how kind his intentions was always to you. He
pleased himself with hopes he would have seen your happiness in your
intended change, and shewed the greatest tenderness imaginable to your
little ones, and said he thought if they had a mother, she could not but
be kind to them. I had a great many instances of his friendship upon
all occasions, with the greatest respect and honour that was possible.
And at the last he put so great a trust in me as before me to tell his
daughters he had left them to none but their brother, only that he required
both him and them to be advised by me in all they did. I was with
poor Mrs. Hardinges some nights in their extremity ; I came home to-
day to look after affairs at home, but design to return this evening to
them, and stay till Monday that the funeral is over. He had settled all
his affairs in the greatest order and exactness that could be, so that in
this last illness he had nothing to do but compose himself for another
world, which he did with so much resignation and patience under the
greatest extremity, as spoke him the same worthy man he lived. He
has left his daughters a thousand pounds a piece ; his son a very clear
and good estate besides. He had directed his son to give his sisters their
table for one year, that they might not be scattered about of a sudden.
Some other little legacies of mourning, and kind remembrances to par-
ticular friends, of which number he has made me one, is all the will of
one, who I think can scarce be equalled in his loss to his friends and
country. I acquainted my Lady Catherine Clarke with what you said
about the jewels. Mr. Clarke is not willing to meddle with them : nor
do I find my Lord Chesterfield will say anything in it : So I believe you
will be obliged to continue them where they are.
1709, October 22. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Dear Brother I would not have omitted the first opportunity of giving
you joy, had not my sister Fanshawe done it : and I am satisfied I need
not make use of much expression in what you're so well assured as my
best wishes to you and yours, particularly in what is so material to your
chief happiness in this life ; and I extremely rejoice that Ave have so
just occasion to hope will prove so, as to give you all the satisfaction
this world can afford. Your daughters both desire their humble duty
may be accepted by yourself and their new mother, who they have
great joy in the thoughts of, and are very full of great resolutions how
good they will be, and 1 may answer for them as far as their years will
allow. And that, dear brother, I may be no hindrance to the putting
your affairs as soon as possible in the method you think most proper, I
will again repeat my resolution of being of no further trouble in your
family, after I have delivered up my little charge. This to any but between
you andmyself might appear the saying no before the being asked : but
I have so long received such kindness from you as to convince me I
might still receive more than would be reasonable for me to accept.
You may be sure I have not determined myself to any place or method
without asking your approbation. All I can say is, it cannot be more
private (with credit) than will suit my inclinations as well as my little
income. Our neighbours at Newton, in their trouble, rejoice with you,
and particularly Mrs. Alary Hardinge desired I would, with her humble
service to you and respects to your lady, wish you all the joy imaginable,
and says she is sure as far as your good wishes can mitigate their
affliction, they are sure of them. Indeed they are very much to be
pitied, for few or none had such a father to lose. But be hath not
omitted any necessary care for them, and they have a brother who
appears to have that worth, as to make it up as far as possible to them,
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 83
and has in this time of extremity carried it with all the prudence and CoKB MSS
tenderness to them imaginable. He buried his father last Sunday in the
evening in a very decent private manner in Peers Chapel in Melborn
Church. There was about sixteen of his most particular friends of the
neighbourhood, with the freeholders and his own tenants of this parish ;
who had all what was usual upon these occasions, but all with the least
show or pageantry that could be, according to the desire of him that it
was done for, who must always live in the hearts aud memories of all
that knew him. My cousin Burdett and his lady begin their journey
to London on Monday next. Sir Robert Burdett has been much hurt
by a fall from his horse, but is upon the recovery. I fear the length of
this may prove unseasonable, but you know the infirmity of your most
affectionate sister and servant. My cousin Walter Burdett is in great
raptures of your mare, and has been very earnest ever since she came
down that he might have the keeping her for you : you know you cau't
oblige him more, than by accepting his courtesy.
(1709), November 1, Windsor Park. Duchess of Marlborough to
Honble. Mrs. Coke.
As I was going into my coach att St. A.lbans I received the favour of
your leter, dear Mrs. Coke, and as soon as I come out of it I give
myself the pleasure of writing to you and asuring you I shall bee very
glad that you will make use of anything, or everything, that is call'd
mine att Kinsington. You have said a great deal of your obligations to
me more than they deserve ; for I think there is no great matter in
recommending a very agreeable young woman of a very good family to
bee a maid of honour. But some natures are obliged with anything,
and some with nothing, and upon this occasion I can't help regreting
that one in the Queers family (but indeed she is a very great lady)
used part of my lodgings att Kinsington without any kind of difficulty
or ceremony : and when I took the liberty to take notice of it, she
removed her things and pretended she did not know they were my
lodgings. And yet after that she was pleased to make use of them
again, which was a proceeding perfectly new, and what in noe kind I
had ever heard of before, but her edducation has not been the best, and
all that she does is suitable to it. I have made this letter longer than is
reasonable, or than I intended it, but you must consider me as a country
lady and alone ; and if Windsor is as I left it, you are not much
crowded. I am with all the sincerity imaginable, dear Mrs. Coke, your
most faithfull and most humble servant.
1709-10, January 2. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to the Rt.
Honble. Thomas Coke at his lodgings at the Palace of St. James,
London.
. . . You won't expect any news from this place, but we thank
you for that you send us ; especially the Tattlers have a late been very
entertaining, and between the hopes of hearing of you, and reading the
Tattler, your daughters are impatient for the hour of the post.
(1709-10), January 30. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice-
Chamberlain Coke].
I received yours with orders to pay Beck. Quinton. Mr. Fisher
made me disappoint your tenants by setting a time to meet them a week
since, and is not yet come. If he does not come soon I must be obliged
to give you trouble in several little particulars, which will be tedious
to relate. I cannot say that Misses are well, both having great colds.
Miss and Master Harpur have both been ill, which stays my Lady a
week longer that she designed. Your daughter by her sheep and
f 2
84 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. some presents for playthings has intrusted me with her purse till it is
come to twenty pounds, which I suppose will compass two tickets in
this State Lottery ; which if you approve the venture of it, I have
desired brother John, all under one trouble, to put in for them with
some other I was to desire of him. Poor Miss Betty comes in with
her one guinea, being all she is worth ; which was given her by my
cousin Walter Burdett to make up the sum. I am brewing some ale
stronger than the last, concluding you will like it better. I thought
you would want it by that time this is ready to send, which will be a
fortnight.
1710, June 3. Chilcote. Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
Yesterday your daughters and I came to this place, where we found
my Lady [Catherine Clark] very well, only in some care, till she can
hear from Mr. Clarke, who went on Monday last for London by Dr.
Coke's advice, to take directions for his health in town. I hope before
this you have met, and I would have given you notice of his coming :
'tw r as so sudden a resolution. I did not know of it sooner. On Wednesday
I was obliged to dine at Trusley, when it was designed we should have
been twenty -two of our name, but seventeen I thought pretty well.
My Cousin Coke desired you would be assured of all the service in his
power, and said Mr. Pole of Radbourn had been with him and assured
him whatever lay in him to do should be in your service, the next
election. And now I am to come with a request to you from my
Cousin Coke in behalf of one of his brother Ballindines, who was
brought up a sea surgeon, but now come to great misfortunes, and that
my cousin understands by your place you had the power of several
disposals, and that he should take it for the greatest obligation if you
could procure anything towards a livelihood for his brother. My
cousin said he would leave it wholly to you, and I believe the necessity
is so great that nothing would come amiss. Some years since we was
informed by one from his wife of their poverty, which is all I know
of them, only that she was a veiy ordinary body he married. In my
way from Trusley I made a visit to Twyford, and the Sheriff [Mr. John
Harpur] came in to us : he said he was sure there was an absolute
necessity of your coming, and that very soon. He went on with saying
how disunited a country we now are : the business of Br. Sacheverel
had not only done ill in this, but would bring all countries to make a
trial in relation to the next member they chose to that purpose ; and
that he could assure me that they had it from your near neighbour
that you was not only against him, but that you had taken several
opportunities to show yourself, and to speak and that very hotly, and
when you need not have done it, against him; and this was my Lord
Ferrer's information. I said politics was not belonging to me to judge
in, but that I thought if the gentlemen you served was dissatisfied in
anything you did for them, they might find a friendly and honourable
way of letting you know their dislike, without taking the advantage of
your absence (which they knew your service to the Queen obliged you to)
by any underhand proceedings. He said I was right : and he would
tell me further, that he himself was assured that you had done him a
very particular disservice, which was, that you had directly been the
means of his being kept on for Sheriff, and that his answer to them
was that he would say or do nothing till he bad known the truth of it
from yourself. I suppose the same person was the author of this as
the other. My cousin said further that he believed there was no par-
ticular person pitched of to join with Mr. Curzon as yet, but he could
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 85
tell within one who it would be ; at least to two. One was Vernon, Coke Mi
and he not named was the person I am staying with [Mr. Clark] I
suppose. He said the secret was lodged between my Lord Scarsdale,
Mr. Curzon, and perhaps there might be one more. He spoke as if
Mr. Curzon had rather declined the coming to having any named to
oppose you, but that if the gentlemen met, they should dispose of him
as they pleased. My cousin said further he was sorry that all your
friends on the other side the country would be against you. I said, the
Ashbourn side? He said, yes; but he must except one Captain Beres-
ford. Nay said he, I have heard every one of Mr. Vice-Chamberlain's
friends say either that they will be against him, or cannot be for him, but
one, which he repeated several'times over ; and I since find he meant your
nearest neighbour [Mr. John Hardinge]. I have been very sorry they
have obliged me to open my mouth upon these occasions, but I have truly
told you all I have said. I could not tell but it might be some service
you should know how they stand affected. I dined yesterday at
Dunisturp where my cousin [John Burdett] told me, the day before
being Swarson meeting, Mr. Curzon had desired him to assure me he
did not design any separation from you. My cousin said there was not
a word of politics amongst them, as was expected, but all hug and kiss ;
and Sir Nat. [Curzon] was not amongst them. The first great meeting
at Kedlestone, which was agreed to be to return Mr. Curzon thanks for
the great services done his country this last year, Sir Nathaniel looked
very down upon them all dinner, which as soon as done, he walked off
and never saw any of the company the day again, and I believe he doe3
not approve the present heats and confusions. But they have a great
time to cool in. 'Tis alleged, by way of persuasion that you have been
their representative a great while and that others that are equally
capable ought to have their turns. Lord Scarsdale has very lately
pressed it afresh here, upon which a letter was writ, if you continued
to stand they would not oppose : but upon this sudden resolution of
going to London was not sent. ... So 'tis hoped you will meet and
a right understanding be continued.
1710, June 5. (Kings) Newton. John Hardinge to Mrs. Coke.
Madam, Having so fair an opportunity I take the freedom that there
may be no misunderstanding among friends, which perhaps my meeting
the gentlemen at Swarston might not unreasonably raise, to declare my
mind and beg the same, if you think fit, may be communicated to
Mr. Coke. I'm sure my small interest shall never countenance any
opposition. If I can't serve him, as 'tis difficult to steer betwixt friends,
and not split upon one of them, I'll never do him any disservice. I
thought, as I was assured, to meet purely to see my friends, aud be
merry, and to increase my small acquaintance in the country ; but I
find they will in a little time meet for something else, and they seem
only to want a man to exercise their zeal for, which is so furious upon
the Doctor's [Sacheverell] account. And there being so large an
interval before a new Parliament, probably it may resolve into a better
temper. Mr. Coke's presence I believe would startle some of them,
though in the main they seem to be at present pretty unanimous, and have
entered into a solemn league and covenant to meet at Derby. Though
I may be backward in my expressions to my friends, I think I may say
there's no one retains a more grateful acknowledgment of your kindness
than I do, and for the family at Melbourne, I hope I may say that to the
utmost of my power.
86 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. 1710, June 20. Mellborn. Alice Coke to Mr. Vice-Chamberlain
Coke.
Dear Brother, 1 thought you might like to hear something concern-
ing the proceedings of the gentlemen of the country meeting at Derby
last Wednesday, which occasions rne to write to you at this time,
although I hope you will have it from better hands than mine, because
I can't give a very perfect account of it. The meeting was resolved
upon at Swarston at the club there the week before : and then it was
proposed that that day they should enter into an agreement to have no
dealings with any body at Derby that would not agree with them in
their opinions of choosing of Parliament men, and that dissented from
the Church of England. And when they met Captain Port offered a
paper to them to sign to that effect, but very few liked of the motion,
and it was refused signing. And afterwards Mr. Burton proposed an
address to them which they agreed to sign, if they liked the contents of
it, which they all did except Mr. Stanhope of Elverson, who told them
there was some expressions in it contrary to his judgment, and therefore
he would not set his hand to it ; and Captain Port also refused the
signing, as was supposed out of anger that his proposal was rejected.
Mr. Curzon is desired to carry it up, which I suppose he will do very
soon. My cousiu J. Burdett and Mr. Harding was neither of them
there, to shew their dislike to what they knew would be proposed. I
hear there are some that have a mind to bring the gentlemen to an
agreement to write to you by a general consent to desist from standing,
and join with them in choosing one with Mr. Curzon : and this was
thought would have been one proposition at last meeting, but I don't
hear that it was, though it is certainly much laboured at, and the way
that the angry parly hopes to have take effect : and they are to continue
their meeting at Swarston. My sister and nieces intend to be at home
tomorrow. If I hear anything more of this matter I shall not fail of
telling you.
1710, June 26. Melborne. Elizabeth Coke to the lvt. Honble.
Thomas Coke at his lodgings at the Palace of St. James, London.
I ought not longer to defer your satisfaction as to Mr. Har[dinge]
who I take to be one who will be more for his friend than he is forward
in saying : and as far as I can understand has not made one false step
in regard to you, though he has not only been pressed, but near insulted
by some, to make one in the unreasonable proceedings a late amongst
them. I believe since his not meeting at Derby, nor signing the address
at Kedleston the day before Mr. Curzon went with it, the)' are satisfied
no good is to be done with him : but told his sister, who was then there,
they thought her brother was one of better principles, but thought he
might have some private interest to serve by Mr. Alee Chamberlain.
You know that there was a particular friendship between Sir Nat.
Curzon and Mr. Hardinge that's gone, and upon that account Sir N"at.
expresses abundance to his children, and Mr. Curzon till now I believe
has always been particularly obliging and kind to Mr. John Hardinge.
So all that Mr. Hardinge meant by not engaging further in your
service, was that as his interest was small, and himself so particularly
obliged to you both, in a dispute in an election he might have to stand
neuter. If you thought fit to break the ice by writing to him, I think
it would much engage, and indeed he suffers so much at present in your
service as to need your umbrage. Several seem to be sensible they
suffered themselves to be much put upon by accepting of an address sent
to them in the manner it was, and what they say they can't much like :
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 87
but my cousin Walter Burdett says they have shewed by it how easy Cokb MSS.
they are to comply. The Swarson meeting is to be on Monday next. '
The most moderate amongst us are very much for accepting Lord
Granby's offer to be one of the Knights of the Sbire for Leicester, and
the gentlemen to choose the other, in hopes they may continue united.
Many of the Leicestership gentlemen have been at Staunton lately, and
his Lordship [Ferrers] seems with great warmth to concern himself
in all these parts. The silver saucepan with the little porringer and
spoon was put up to be sent this week, but neither of your carriers is
going till next week.
1710, July 8. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
I am pleased to find you have (as I was apt to believe) pleased some
and disappointed others by signing the address. As far as t am capable
of guessing the temper of the county in general is very much mended :
indeed in the reason of the thing there wanted only a little time for their
own heat and management to break their own measures. And I can't but
be silently pleased to myself to observe what furious pains they have taken
to convince themselves of their want of power. You can best judge
when will be your time to come amongst them but I heartily "wish
matters were brought to a settlement, both for your ease and the quiet
of the neighbourhood : and without your presence to countenance your
friends, and awe those whose inclination is otherways, I doubt they will
be apt to renew the divisions. And if any new aggravation should
arise by your seeming neglect of them (which is a particular they are very
jealous in that are your friends, and are willing to aggravate and make
use of that are not) I fear it would then be much more difficult to
procure a right understanding and settlement of affairs than at this
time. I am glad you think Mr. Vernon not to be prevailed Avith. I
believe whatever he may have done well in the matter is very much
owing to Mr. Cotton, who has without dispute acted very friendly and
gentlemanlike to you in your absence, as I believe Mr. Stanhope of
Elvaston has also done. And Mr. Surley, with the allowance of
some expressions agreeable to his name, has been constant. My cousin
Walter Burdett often hints he should not know you had received his last
letter, but that Francis Ilopegood sent him word of it. If you can find
time to set pen to paper., it strangely obliges. I am sure I find the
particular of visits so necessary to maintain a good correspondence
amongst us, that without giving you the trouble of asking your leave,
at the beginning of the year I set your chaise upon the four wheels
again, and laid by your shafts, that you may soon return it to the same
again. With it 1 have with great ease compassed all your neighbours,
except the Vernons, who my cousin Fitzherberts (that have been
sometime at Newtonl ately) tell me are very full of resentment at my
sister Alice and I upon that account.
1710, July 2G. (Melbourne.) -Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
Not hearing yet the good news of my sister being brought to bed
makes me fear it will not be possible for you to see this place by the
'sizes, as I much hoped you would, believing still that your presence will
be absolutely necessary there: when 'tis said will be the most general
meeting that has been known, and I hear all are silent till that time.
But I have seen nobody but our nearest neighbour [Mr. John Hardinge]
since last 1 writ to you. Only my Lady Catherine Clarke was so kind
to give us an opportunity by her coach to carry your daughters to wait of
88 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
my Lady Strathmore [their mother's half sister] who began her journey
back for Scotland yesterday, and has passed her time under so great
disappointment by not seeing her father [the Earl of Chesterfield], as
could not but move our pity, though no surprise to me, that have seen
so many instances of the same nature. Lady Catherine said Lord
Scarsdale had now writ that he would be advised by the gentlemen,
which she did not know what to make of. My Lord Ferrers is gone to
Chartley, and was met at Burton and so on upon the road by five hun-
dred horse and other mob ; and a great many hogsheads of ale at their
arrival set out for their welcome : but I have not heard how his
popularity has been carried on since. I am now to come to a subject
I am as unskilled at as what I have been upon, but will not decline any-
thing to which friendship engages me. Mrs. Mary Hardinge has had
by several of her friends a proposal made of one Mr. Sansby [Sandby]
a canon of Worcester, and I believe chaplain to General Churchill,
because he has lived with him, and as I understand done the business of
a secretary to him ; which makes me think it not improbable but you
might have heard of him, or could without much difficulty have some
light into the character of the person, who is wholly a stranger both
to her brother and her. His birth is mean, which is a great exception ;
his church preferments are four hundred pounds a year, and all that is
visible in money is 800/. His advantages under the General are said
to be considerable. Mrs. Hardinge expressed that as you had given
her encouragement to be so free to look upon you as her friend, that
there was nobody that she should so soon depend upon, as to the
character of the person, if it should happen that you did, or could,
know anything of him. And she expressing it to her brother, when he
writ to his uncle Gideon and Mr. Nicholas Hardinge by the last post y
he desired they would wait of you. "Tis very probable they may have
other sufficient exceptions, and so not give you the trouble. Mrs.
Hardinge is one I wish so entirely well, that I could not but encourage
and much approve her desire of making you her friend upon any occa-
sion ; and she is one that, had she her merits, would much exceed what
otherways her fortune can expect. Mr. Fisher has just come in, who
has been in the Peak. He has not received much yet : but I have
desired him not to make any payments till after the 'sizes, which can-
not break any squares in the time, and I could not tell, if you conio
down, how occasions might be.
[Miss Mary Hardinge died unmarried.]
1710, August 5. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
I believe your letters by the last post could not but surprise you, as
well the proceedings did all your friends that were at Derby on Wednes-
day night last : and I hope you did not want a very just and particular
account from some of those that were present, for it was timed to be not
till many, that was known would not be unanimous (as they would pre-
tend it is) were gone out of the town [Derby], as Sir Edward Coke,
Mr. Cotton and several more that I am not certain of. I am told
your letters to my Lord Scarsdale and Mr. Sheriff [HarpurJ
were both read on Monday, when the gentlemen all dined with the
Sheriff, aDd appeared to give a general satisfaction, and by some said
to be the most handsome in the world. And no mention made of
their intentions till after dinner on Tuesday, when my Lord Scarsdale
entertained the gentlemen. After my Lord had begun by making
a speech, which I have not heard perfect enough to repeat, but
the Church's being betrayed and undermined, and great aggravation
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 89
of that sort, Sir John Harpur was first applied to for his opinion, who Coke MSS.
was drawn in to say something to their purpose ; and when others also
had vented themselves, 'twas said the country never was better served
than by Sir Gilbert Clarke, and the offer made to Mr. Clarke, who
seemed to decline it some time, but soon stood up and said, since it
was the unanimous desire of the gentlemen he should serve them, he
would not refuse it, or to that effect. With which Mr. Thacker stood
up and desired he would not call it unanimous, for it was not his desire
to have you excluded, nor he believed of several gentlemen more, there-
Cousin John Burdett said since the country was so quiet, why should
it not continue so, but when it was put further, said he would only vote
foraCurzon. lam sorry I cannot say better for him. Mr.. Stanhope
of Elvaston expressed his satisfaction in the service you did them, and
that he liked Mr. Curzon also, but absolutely declined to agree to the
change. Mr. Itobert Wilmot did so also, and said that whatever his
opinion was he would not declare it there, nor in that manner, and
several said they should desire to be better satisfied of your declining
to stand, than by anything that had appeared to them yet. Mr. Beres-
ford and Mr. Fitz Herbert were both steady to you ; and Mr. Statham
spoke a great deal and in a very handsome manner. The number that
was present was three and twenty as I hear. Mr. Sheriff was not
present with them, and after he came to the knowledge of it, either was,
or pretended, the greatest passion of anger imaginable. Dear Brother,
I think there can be no ill in my telling you what has happened to come
to my hearing, which could be only from our next neighbours
[Hardiuges] and poor Mr. Thacker, who is much perplexed at it, and
free in communicating : for I am so ignorant that I can't so much as
guess what you will proceed to do in it, and therefore shall be pleased
it is likely to so happen that I shall see nobody till I hear further. I
confess it was no great surprise to me, any further than that I did not
directly judge Mr. Clarke Avould have been guilty of what I will not
express, lest I should too much aggravate. But when I found you
could not come down, I sat down prepared for something of this nature :
for there is no certainty when there wants integrity in some, and
courage in others, except your presence could have awed the one and
encouraged the other. I think nothing can in prospect be a greater
misfortune to Mr. Clarke than this present undertaking. My Lady
[Catherine Clarke] is truly to be pitied at this time, for 'tis what I am
satisfied she has long engaged the assurance should never be, and is
under a great concern for. Lord Scarsdale took Mr. Clarke with him
strait into the Peak from Derby. But Mr. Sheriff and Mr. Thacker
both told Mr. Fisher their success hitherto has been very bad. Mr.
Hardinge, who has been upon the circuit was to see us last night : he
si.id he would have writ to you, and was still desirous to do it, but that
he thought he could be of no service, through his ignorance of the
country, and his business having kept him so much out of the way
whilst at Derby. But I said if he could not be so particular as he desired
I was sure you would be pleased to hear from him ; so he said then he
would certainly write. Mr. Vernon, I hear, answered )our opinion of
him. Cousin Burdetts of Foremark and Knolehills are not yet
returned into Derbyshire. We begin to think it long till we hear it is
well over with my sist?r. Your grey gelding is dead. Miss's mare
must be knocked of the head, if I can get nobody to take her soon.
Your Scotch pad goes lame. My sister may have the sweetmeats sent
now when she pleases. I had almost forgot to tell you of our two young
guests, which are Miss Cokes of Trusley : my cousin sent them the day
before the 'sizes, but how long they stay I can't tell. Mr. Warren was
90 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. oue f |h e company, and concluding that Mr. Clarke would have my
Lord Chesterfield's interests in Nottinghamshire immediately, offered his
service for the bringing them in.
1710, August 7. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
My Cousin John Burdett is come to us, to ease his mind by giving
a very particular relation of their transactions on Tuesday. As to
himself I find the matter of fact was the same that I writ to you the
last post, that he would vote for Mr. Curzon only, Mr. Clarke and you
being both his friends he would vote for neither. I believe he heartily
repents having engaged himself not to meddle, and gave me an account
of those in his town, and wished me to send to Mr. Allen, and to
Parnells, which I have already done. But to my great wonder 1 must
unsay what I said by the last post of Captain Beresford, and, I fear, of
Mr. Fitz Herbert. The first had engaged several votes in Ashbourn
for the new setters up, at which time I sent a how-do-ye both to him
and my cousin Boothby by a servant that went to the fair. They have
lost no time, nor spare to say what is most for their purpose, as that you
have declined standing, and desired Mr. Clarke to accept it, and engaged
your interest for him. And I hear Mr. Fitz Herbert expressed a great
respect for you, but declared your proceedings in Parliament were so
contrary to his principles, that if you were his own father the case would
be the same, that he could not vote for you, though he would not vote
against you. And many declare their want of satisfaction in that
particular, and I believe the clergy are general against you. There w r as
a great many gentlemen sent for by my Lord Searsdale, but refused to
come: but I know the names of none but Sir Edward Coke, and
Mr. Hardinge, and Mr. Holden, Counsellor. Mr. Coke of Trusley and
Mr. Cotton was gone out of town. His daughters are gone home.
Ballindon was one of the company, and I believe engaged as desired.
Mrs. Turner of Derby is come in to dinner, and in a great heat for you :
but says they say it with all the assurance imaginable at Derby that you
decline standing. Dear Brother, you can best judge, but as your absence
has given them the advantage of doing this, I wish it don't prove a
great expense for a great uncertainty ; for I know no friend hereabouts
that can effectually serve you. But if you do continue the resolution of
standing, I don't doubt but you'll write to every one of your friends in
particular, and not defer your coming much longer. Mr. Vernon refused
the standing, yet I am told they believe he is amongst them now. I
believe you need not fear Mr. John Hardinge, and I am apt to think
Mr. Curzon will do by him as by you, set you free from all
obligation.
1710, August 9. Melbourne. Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
All I can say in relation to late proceedings is that it is carried on
with the greatest vehemence possible, and the false report of your desisting
spread with that industry and assurance as would surprise one, but that all
their measures, as they begun, must proceed iu perfidiousness. The
gentlemen are very unanimous in it, though I can hear of none that
justifies it, but disclaim it as their doing. 'Tis said there was not above
three in the secret, and that Mr. Clarke was not one. I can't but love your
goodness and designed behaviour to him, and shall have to endeavour to
do the same. All say never any one did anything with so great confu-
sion and disorder ; but certainly it suits much with his inclinations, and I
doubt he is too far engaged to withdraw . . . Mr. Sheriffs [Harpur]
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 91
pretended heat of anger at the proceeding at first is now as furiously bent Coke MSS.
in making all the interest hereabouts against you. ... I find at the
first proposal at Derby the question was put a second time to those that
was for you, whether in case you joined with the fanatical part, they
would then be for a Coke, and I thought Mr. Cotton's letter (inclosed)
seemed to hint the same. How far your immediate presence amongst
them might startle the many ungrateful in their dishonourable proceedings,
I am not capable to judge. There must be no delay in it, in case you
have any thoughts of continuing to stand. Cantrill aud Hazard of
Hartshorn say their votes shall be always yours. The Freeholders of
Findern and Stenson by Samuel Sims all entirely the same, but two,
though Mr. Sheriff had been first with them, who they valued no more
than the dii t of their shoes, but desired you might know you had no
greater enemy than him : and was sure you would find as great a friend
of Mr. Pole, and also Mr. Gilbert of Lockoe. I am sensible all this
is very insignificant, but as nothing must be neglected, so you will
bear with my relation of it. Mr. Hardinge thinks you much in the
right at" present to declare your standing, but though Mr. Clarke be very
unsteady, yet this matter is so much to his inclination, and ha is so far
engaged in it that he fears he will certainly persist; and the gentlemen
are so unanimous and active for Clarke and Curzon that he will as certainly
be chose. Mr. Sheriff met with your butler, and thought fit in a very
extraordinary manner to converse with him, by telling him it was to no
purpose for you to think of standing now, it was too late : 'twas true he
had a letter for you at assizes, but you should have been there to have
answered for yourself. He said his brother had been making interest
for you, but they had sent to put a stop to it. He gave his service
to us.
1710, August 12. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to the Pt. Honble.
Thomas Ccke, at his lodgings at the Palace of St. James, London.
I have but just time to give you joy of your daughter, and we all
rejoice to hear my sister is so far sale, and wish the continuance of it.
As to election affairs the town of Derby is said to be very much gone
over, since Mr. Curzon's and Mr. Clarke's going about with my Lord
Chesterfield 's letter, hut I believe you have got many there
Tis past expression the unanimous ingratitude of most in these parts,
but in my simple judgment, however you shall think fit to determine, I
shall wish your presence amongst them. There is a great meeting this
day at Nottingham where Sir John [Harpur] and the High Sheriff are
gone. Cousin Burdetts are expected home this night. I hear my
Lord Ferrers is not so firm to them as expected, but my authority is
but uncertain.
1710, August 16. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke).
I cannot be silent, nor forbear expressing my uneasiness at the present
posture of affairs, since you continue the resolution of standing, as
Mr. Cotton gave me to understand. He expressed great desire of serving
you, but seemed to fear it was not now in any of your friends power to do
it, for this time ; and questioned whether it was not of more service to
you for them to lie still : but said he came to enquire what agents you had
employed hereabouts. I said I did not know of any directions you had
given Fisher, nor any other, but named those gentlemen that 1 knew did
make endeavours : by which I found that they don't so much as know of
one another's proceedings. I told Mr. Cotton that as several had desired
to know the certainty of your standing, I had given the assurance of it.
92 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. "What your particular reasons have been to prevent your coming and
now deter you, to be sure you best and only know : but whilst you are
absent things, I believe, go backward every day. And yet one may
find that votes are to be had wherever I could try, and in places where
they say with great assurance all are engaged : but as nothing to the pur-
pose, nor in a regular way, can have been done here, so 'tis not possible
to make any judgment of the matter. Mr. Allen came here this
morning in his way to Nottingham race. He says he is more obliged to
you than any man living, and loves you the best, and has assured Mr.
Clarke he will never be against you. He said he feared it was too late
now. They have positively said he was brought over ; but though not
so, I cannot find that he has stirred to make any interest.
1710, August 19. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
We was all extremely concerned to hear of my sister's illness by
yours of the last post : we can only wait with patience and pray God
for the best. As soon as I received the list of the last poll for
Greasley and Bepton Hundred I had it examined, and all necessary
amendments made, and drawn out into three or four divisions, as it
might be despatched with most convenience. There was two towns
omitted in your list, which was Meesum (Measham) and Willesley,
the first of which has a pretty number of freeholders in it, and most
promised to you, upon sending to. For finding that wherever they 'was
sent to an inclination for you appears, and a desire of the assurance of
your standing, and votes to be had, I have made use of John Seargant
and your butler, to be upon the constant move, the best I could all
along : finding success more or less wherever they went, and I hope
nothing improper has been by it, though it would not, till with your
direction, be to any considerable purpose. Mr. Troughton [Vicar of
Melbourne] is very hearty and sincere in your service ; and the best
assistance I could think of for the regulating the list of the poll was
him, John Beresford and John Seargant and Mr. Fisher. As to Mr.
Fisher he says he will serve you in all ways he can, in all places but
where my Lords [Chesterfield] interest lies, which so much interferes
with yours in so many places that 'tis my opinion you will not think it
proper to have his going or speaking relied upon. On the other side I
believe you will not think it convenient to have him wholly disobliged
at this time. So as for his information it shall be accepted ; and his going
I suppose had best not be refused, but must not be trusted to only.
Beresford and Seargant are two of the best I can think of to go out
and John Ratcliff also desires the part he used to have. Your butler's
headpiece is not great, but he knows places and persons, and I have found
his good words and good manners has not been unacceptable. I hear there
is a proposal sent you from Derby and from the High Sheriff. I wish
Mr. Tumour is not biassed by my Lord Chesterfield, but he says be
will do all that's possible. And Sir John [Harpur] I hear has a debt
too, from him, which is to be forgiven : but where to find Mr. Sheriff
[Harpur] with his politics is past me, and therefore which way he may
influence him, I can't tell. Mr. Gilbert of Lockoe has been very stirring
in your interest lately. Cousin John Burdett cannot but be more in
your interest than he said he would. He sent me word how much things
cooled, and he thought still would. Cousin Walter Burdett sent his
chaise yesterday for us to see his niece Betty Jodrell. In our way we met
Lady Catherine [Clarke] and Mrs. Philips coming to Melbourn, who
went with us to Knolehills, and in the afternoon Sir John Harpur and my
Lady came in. My governor according to custom drunk the ladies
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 93
health too fast ; after which he proposed to Sir John the three candidates, cokk MSS.
and Sir John bid him drink them according to inclination ; so he begun
with you and ended with Mr. Clarke : after which he said some things
so hard about sudden turnabouts, that I was not a little concerned, but
the manner was so comical, that it ended only in great mirth, and Sir
John was very easy, and better than before. Mr. Clarke was to go from
the race to the Peak and after that to his aunt in Northamptonshire. I
believe your presence would secure both Cousin Walter and Cousin
Kobert Burdettto act in a handsome and reasonable manner to you. Mr.
Cotton is absent about his own election. I hear my Cousin Fitzherbert
seems much moderated ; but Captn. Beresford says, not to be zealous
when engaged is to desert a cause. My sister Alice is rather worse
today than she has been. Mr. Hardinge is not returned from the
race.
1710, August 26. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
Your packet of letters are sent accordingly, and more added by Mr.
Fisher the best he could judge, and Mr. Trough ton. They thought it
would do well to some of the clergy, and in some places to some of the top
of the freeholders, to communicate to their neighbours. I an very glad
to hear my sister is better, and heartily wish she may continue so, and
that we may see you down ; for I fear nothing can be done in your
absence to any purpose; which I am satisfied you so well know, that you
will do it when you can, since you continue your resolution of standing :
for which I don't doubt but you have sufficient reasons, and I am sure it is
not material for me to know them. . . . On Monday last Mr.
Statham sent me a list of Apletree Hundred, and said they was not
quite so ungrateful about him, as in your own Hundred. On Tuesday my
cousin Coke of Trusley came over and gave me to understand that Sir
Edward Coke, and he thought Mr. Cotton and most of your friends, as
well as himself had writ you their opinion that by the best they could
judge it was impossible for you to succeed. And they all wished you
would acquiesce for this time, by which you would so much oblige the
gentlemen, as to regain many for your friends against the next time.
My Cousin Coke said he had spoke to Mr. Pool of Kadbourn, who
seemed inclined to you, but said he should be swayed by the Duke of
Devonshire. I don't find any body knows how the Duke of liutlaud's
interest goes ; nor the Duke of Newcastle's, though some say Mr. Clarke
has it. I found the other day by Dr. Coke, who had been on Ashbourn
side, that they began to be in fear for Mr. Curzon, and that it was
suspected Mr. Clarke did not do fair ; out there is so little truth to be
heard, that I am afraid to repeat. John Seargant went with the Derby
letters and those beyond. Basford and Sims and John are gone out
today ; and you shall have the best account I can on Monday of their
proceedings. There is not many that will directly promise. Some say
they will not say till they come to Derby : others, one vote to you, and
the other to one of the others : and others that have promised, upon
the saying that you did not stand, though some of them say they know
no reason why they should keep their promise, when the gentlemen
come to them with a falsity in their mouths. I cannot pretend to judge
how far your presence and a right management might retrieve and
prevail. But those that are your friends don't stir to the purpose, and
seem to think it is more to your service not to do it : anil yet it ia manifest
there where they are not sent to, it is a sufficient objection that they am
not taken notice of. So I doubt I only run on in confusion by this
scribble to no purpose. Your letter went yesterday to Mr. Willmote of
94 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. Duffield, who I hear is against you : but Mr. Troughton had notice sent
him last night that all the rest of that town was not to be gained either
by him [Mr. Clarke ?] or the Curzons, so John is gone thither with a
letter to Mr. Pinder and two of the freeholders. For the further truth
you shall hear next post. My cousin Ward was here on Wednesday,
hearing you were come. Mr. Stanhope also came as far as Newton upon
the same. Dr. Coke and his wife are come : my sister Alice's fever
continues, but I hope in God, not dangerous. I don't hear you have
writ to Mrs. Grey, who, by her steward I believe, still inclines notwith-
standing her promise. Sir John Harpur resents you never write to him.
Whether you will think well to do it now, I could not tell.
1710, August 27. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to (Vice Chamber-
lain Coke).
My sending this to you is without the knowledge of any one except
my sisters, and the servant who brings it. It comes from one who
cannot make a right judgment in these cases, but must be earnestly in
your service, and would fain have you know the truth of things as far
as I can procure it for you, and have the greatest trial imaginable upon
me to see you used as you are at this present. Your letters were
despatched as soon as received, and at the return of the messengers I found
a general unexpected civility, and a concern expressed that they was
engaged, and though they could not get from the promise of their own
vote, they should be desirous to serve you. I think I may venture to
assure you there appears a general apprehension of Mr. Curzon being
in danger, if you pursue the standing. Many are very industrious in
reporting you cannot come, and have malice enough to give the reason
that your money occasions are such that you durst not. For I believe
there is nothing they dread so much as the alteration that your presence
would make, and a right management of affairs, if there was time for
it. Mr. Hinton of Derby passed by here yestesday and met Mr. Fisher
in the Field, and told him he was going out of the country for quiet's
sake for a time : he said he was satisfied, if you would personally appear
now amongst them, that the gentlemen were so generally ashamed and
sensible of their wrong proceedings, though perhaps their personal
votes they could not well recall from promise, yet they would favour
you by leaving all the freeholders at liberty ; and he thought you might
certainly prevail, and Mr. Curzon would lose it. The freeholders do
not stick to say they will show their liberty in voting. Dearest Brother,
I think I have said nothing but with just grounds, and I may the better
venture so far as the pressing the seeing you : because 'tis certain which-
ever way you determine, you will do it in a manner becoming yourself,
which will give great satisfaction to your friends, who have so long
wanted it by your absence ; and who are disheartened by the confidence
of the other party, who do not spare the saying all's their own, in every
place. I will only add that I cannot find that any one gentleman but
excuses their being brought in either through surprise, or mistake of
your desisting, as some call it, others deserting others the necessity of
agreeing with the gentlemen. And like Caulk House, the thing is done
but nobedy did it. And though there is nothing to be said for such a
proceeding as is beyond example, yet I believe you would find more
goodwill to you yet remaining and would shew itself when you appear
amongst them, than at this distance you might reasonably judge. But
it is a hard thing for people to own themselves in the wrong, and it is
no wonder they try as far as they can to have you come down to their
terms. Mr. Fisher has worked hard a late, but he knows nothing of
this sending, for it is impossible to know how far my Lord's
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 95
[Chesterfield] interest makes confusion in yours : but I believe the Coke mss.
managers of it intend, if you succeed, to make a merit of dividing
between Clarke and you. 'Twas said that at the race my Lord Granby
recalled the orders that the Duke of Rutland had given of his interest
for you : but of this to be sure you have a certainty (if so) from better
hands : but it gave a great check to your friends. We found Duffield
very well inclined, and John Seargant goes out tomorrow towards
Mansfield, and aloDg the edge of Nottinghamshire, where we can't
find that any body has been yet. Dear Brother, if you judge all this
folly, I am sure you will accept the intention.
1710, August 30. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
My sister Alice feverish disorder continues, and I cannot say I am
quite without fear by reason she cannot bear the taking the Jesuits'
bark ; but she has been so well yesterday and today without it, that we
are in great hopes it will quite go off. I find the gentlemen say they
cannot believe you in earnest the standing, by reason you do not come
down, and makes those in a lower degree say they fear they are only
gaining enemies to no purpose. There can be nothing done to the
purpose, nor as it ought to be, in your absence, and I cannot but continue
to wish your presence here, because I am satisfied there is nothing your
enemies dread so much. I hear my cousin John Burdett tells them all
that if Mr. Curzon be thrown out, 'tis no more than they deserve. He
seems to think that your letter ha3 much mollified furious Will. Brown,
who says he would ride a thousand miles to serve you in anything, but
state affairs. And parson Cary, who had a letter amongst others of the
clergy, and has been a warm stirring man, came to Dunisturp, and
6aid, since you had thought fit to take notice of him and more of the
clergy, he would not make another vote against you. Those that have
been at Nottingham have brought a certainty of some, and the assurance
of several more, but Mr. Warren and Sir Thomas Willoughby's interest
much thwarts yours. My Lady Bellamont divides her interest now
between Mr. Clarke and you. Mrs. Cavendish I hear says, notwith-
standing her son's proceedings, when she finds you come down, hers
shall be yours. And Mrs. Gray I believe inclines much to you. I fear
you have received a very extraordinary letter from cousin Walter
[Burdett] : he showed me a sketcli of it, which I told him I thought
would appear very odd and unkind, except he could be his own inter-
preter; and what he has writ I can't tell, not having seen him since.
1 thank you for the good news, and conclude my sister was better
because you did not mention to the contrary.
1710, September 2. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Your servant returned on Wednesday night which gave me a great
satisfaction in your approbation of his being sent, but especially in
confirming my hopes of your coming into the country, and that the ill
success will be no disappointment in case it happens. I much please
myself in the hope that you will put all friendships to the test, which
and the fear how far your presence may prevail upon the general shame
in having done that they don't desire to answer to your face, and the
knowing of the goodwill cf the freeholders to you, makes your presence
less wished for by most than ever at any time I may say dreaded
though to be sure they are so much hardened by success as is possible.
One of the first things after the noble resolution at Derby was, they said
if they could pull you down in the country, they should be sure to do it
96 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. above, and nothing is more visible than that envy has been the spur to
all their ingratitude. But we must not aggravate, or speak to give
offence. There is none of your friends will make a step further till
they see you, and are free in saying your success is an impossibility,
which is one great help towards it, for the freeholders are not willing to
disoblige to no purpose., and therefore every day will lose ground.
Seargant is going through Apletree Hundred again, and Bamford of Tick-
nail and Basford together will go through this Hundred again. Bamford,
the baily of the Hundred to Sir John Harpur,makes no scrupleof venturing
tobe sincere,I think, in your service. Mr. Fisher I cannot tell what to say
in. I cannot say but he might have done much more by thinking of some
agents that might be serviceable. I have pressed it extremely on him and
he has promised me to go to Derby and see what proper agents can be had
to assist. It is visible Mr. Tumour exerts himself in words only, aud I
believe Mr. Gilbert now lies still amongst the rest for your coming. I
would fain have two or three of a better rank to have kept moving, and
to back the inferior sort. Mrs. Grey leaves it to her agents, who are
sure to give you one vote, but I believe the other is for Mr. Clarke.
Your letters to Bepton Knolehills and Swarson were all received
extreme well. Cousin Walter [Burdett] dined with us and is in great
passions of kindness to you, but there is much of Curzon also in him.
Cousin Robin is inclined to you in a cautious way, but with that
honour and inclination that I believe, when you meet, you will have
some satisfaction in him. Mr. Trott John Seargant met with in his first
travels, who said he was sorry he came too late, and the old gentlewoman
wept upon it. I believe he is resolvedly engaged, for Seargant upon
the road happened to be in an inn, where he came in, but he would not
speak, nor take no further notice than a bow. My cousin Boothby sent
me a very civil letter of concern that things happened as they are ; that
Mr. Boothby thought himself engaged in honour, being one of the
number at Derby. I don't find that Mr. Lay of Mafield has done any-
thing in your service. The gentlemen as I heard that first began the
opposition in the garden, for good luck sake as they called it, were
Warren, Thomas Greasley and Will. Brown. They were so loud in
the little house with the door shut that poor Sir John heard them,
and concluded it a quarrel, and would have sent Will. Francis to part
them, who was more willing they should fight it out. I have
long wished to know who was the first that mentioned it at table, to
have sent you word, but cannot hear. In the disposal of the letters I
could have no better advice than Mr. Troughton and Fisher : there has
been no distinction of party, so I suppose offence of both sides will be
given. Mr. Dakeyne came since I began this : offers his service to be
stirring where he may be most serviceable both out of town and in. He
believed he could also satisfy of some that would be stirring till you
came : but said people would not have it scarce yet that you will stand.
He said he found they was in fears for Mr. Curzon, and now endeavoured
to get single votes for him where they could. I have had no oppor-
tunity to mention anything in Sir Ph. Leving's interest : and I find
your having favoured him has put a stop to a very considerable party in
Derby, which pause upon it, and desire to know whether you writ down
for him, or no, of John Seargant, when he delivered the letters. Mr.
Troughton [Vicar of Melbourne] desires me to remind you of writing
to Dr. Willis, the Dean of Lincoln, who has many presentations
depending on him as parson of Wirksworth. He thought Captain Tate,
Colonel Wilson, and Mr. Phillips, though of Leicestershire, used to be
concerned in your interest, aud was omitted writing to. Mrs. Leech is
to be writ to by yourself, as also Captain Prime.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 97
1710, September 3. (Somerset House.) Mrs. Sanderson to [Vice cokb MM.
Chamberlain Coke]. *-
I omitted telling you yesterday that Mrs. Rose and the others are
Papishes, and drive trades. And since Mr. Hutton has taken his name-
sake the Doctor into his lodgings with him, I am misley (miserably ?)
straitened by his taking a room from me, for his better convenience ;
purposing that when Mrs. Rose was removed, the garret she was in
would lie more convenient for me. I humbly beg your favour with the
Duke of Shrewshury that I may have it : it is upon the back of my
kitchen. At present I have never a place to lay my servants in, nor to
put anything out of the way.
1710, September 4. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Mr. Tumour dined here yesterday and there wanted no assurances in
words : he told me he had done what he could in the town, but I could
not find that he knew the certainty how any stood affected to you. He
was to meet Mr. Bradshaw, Receiver, to consider of somebody more, to
be stirring about Chesterfield side, and those parts of Scarsdale, where
ias been a great want. Mr. Fisher was yesterday Avith Mr. Cotton,
who told him he and more of your friends continued the opinion of your
desisting. Fisher told him of Doctor Atterbury's letter to Mr. Walker,
Minister of Derby, who is since dead, and the letter has lain in his
brother the High Constable's hands till the other day Mr. Bondclift
procured it for Mr. Fisher, who was immediately for getting copies
attested, and to be shown abroad : which upon consideration I durst not
do without your direction, lest it should break anyways your measures
when you come. Mr. Cotton thought, had it been known to the gentle-
men before the assizes, it might have done much ; or could you get a
fresh one now, and if Dr. Smallridge would do the like, and was not
known to any of the clergy, he might write for the same purpose to
Mr. Cotton himself. I own I am so proud as to think you need no
vindication but what time and yourself will give you. Mr. Cotton told
Fisher that Mr. Curzon said he found the dispute would lie between
him and you, and that he washes his hands of any standing design, or
that it was anyways his procuring the parting; and equally elears my
Lord Scarsdale [Leke] and Clarke. I think you must be hardened to all
provocation by this time. When Tumour sent to ask Mr. Crumpton's
vote for you, his answer was that he did not know but Clarke might be
as good a member as yourself, for the gentlemen w r ere angry at you,
because you were against the game bill, and all the old women for not
bringing your wife to lie in in the country. Forgive my prolonging
with his jests. My sister Alice mends but very slowly.
1710, September 11. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
On Saturday night I received your letter, and it appeared very
suspicious of having been opened. I am this day going to take leave
of my Lady Harpur, with Mrs. Burdett : my Lady beginning her
journey for London tomorrow. My Lady seemed to take what I
mentioned from you very well, and said she did not pretend to meddle
in public matters,yetshehad before endeavoured to peisaade Sir John, and
thought she had prevailed, that civility and good neighbourhood might
be continued. Sir John they say cannot bear the name of election,
and I believe is glad he is leaving the country : yet in this as in other
things the positiveness of his temper prevails. And I find my Lady
did interpose in one particular ; for when Sir John sent to recall what
U 58D73. O
98 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. votes Captain Harpur had made for you in the Peak, his tenants would
not yield to go from their first engagement, whieh my Lady thought
was too far imposing, and I believe did show some warmth in prevailing
upon Sir John. I believe Mr. Boothby's letter satisfied you as to his
particular. Mr. Fitzherbert, with great professions of respect and
kindness to you and all your family, makes it his daily labour to make
all the votes he can against you ; but says he went on purpose to the
Assizes to meet you, where had you been, nothing of this had been.
Captain Beresford does not allow himself rest a nights for his earnest-
ness in the cause, and says he thinks it will be his death : he can now
act with a good courage and without control of this side, since your
friend Hardinge's gone. Mr. Vernon is looked upon as your friend.
I hear, he says that he would not have Mr. Clarke make the request of the
gentlemen his excuse to you, for none could have had a greater share
of that than himself ; but if his inclinations would have led him to
accept it, he could not have given himself leave to have done so by you.
My Lord Ferrers goes this day to Chartley to hunt a stag, and (he says)
about the election : but Mr. Clarke and Mr. Curzon are also to be there
most part of the week. Mr. Fisher says he is well informed that your
interest declines daily by your not coming. Mr. Curzon is very much
out of humour with the gentlemen and very uneasy. Mr. Thacker
sent to tell me he had more correspondence with your friends than at
first, and that he thought he might assure you you daily gained
ground. So you will find what I say in one line, I contradict in another,
and leave you to judge. I must do Dakeyne of Derby justice, who finds
no excuse, but does to his best. Mr. Troughton is hearty. A man from
Dovebridge informed that many of the freeholders there was under an
agreement not to vote for Mr. Clarke ; upon which John and Samuel
Sims went and found in part true. Mr. Cavendish had made some
votes for Mr. Curzon, but not for Mr. Clarke. John is also to call of
my Lord Duke of Shrewsbury's steward. Mr. "Wilkins and his son
went to Warwick the beginning of last week to meet Mr. Nicholas
Hardinge, and old Swindall of Tonge was there also, by whom I hear
Mr. Wilkins expressed great uneasiness that he was engaged against
you. As far as I can find Mr. Hardinge called them great fools for
their pains, and told them 'twas his opinion you are not solicitous about
the success, but thought fit to try your friends ; and that he believed
they would soon see you have better preferment than their repre-
sentative.
1710, September 16. (Melbourne.) Elizabeth Coke to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Mr. Clarke was to wait of Dr. Gery, who told him he was engaged
to you : but the Dr. has not had any letter from my Lord Huntingdon,
as he expected he should upon your waiting of my Lord : my Lord's
letter should be procured before Mr. Clarke's next visit. This looks
suspicious, but hitherto it has not been profession only, for they have
engaged them they could, with great earnestness. Mr. Clarke has been
round this Hundred himself, and Will. Brown, who personated Mr.
Curzon among the ignorant. Your not coming makes it impossible to
make it certainly believed that you will stand, and sets the others more
earnestly on. John returned from Dovebridge : he could not find there
that Mr. Cavendish stirred much. He went to Mr. Lay's who went
with him to Ashbourn ; but it happened to be a day of great concourse
to that town, new organs being given to the church, and that day
opened to the neighbourhood thereabouts: so that they could not do
much. I think they met with about three promises. John said the
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 99
man of the inn told him that Bagshaw's son, of Bakewell, said there coke MSS.
had come a letter from the Duke of Rutland to his father, in which
there was directions for the Duke's interest to go for both Clarke and
Curzon. John was also with Mr. Bill, the Duke of Shrewsbury's
steward, who said he knew of no votes thereabouts, but his own. I
am satisfied you're sensible that many of the gentlemen are afraid of
being brought to the test ; but I hope you will not be prevailed with to
keep at a distance, but give some the pain, and others the pleasure, of
seeing you, whichever way you determine it. My Cousin Walter
B[urdett] continues zealously kind, and in a more reasonable way a
late, than usual. Mr. Surly told me that the first man that named a
division was Tom Griesly [Gresly] : but his words was only Clarke
and Curzon : then after it came to be single voted. I cannot say as to
the letters being opened ; but the postwoman is zealous in your interest,
and assured me she delivered it safe, and that it was fallen down by
accident ; but she would be more careful for the future.
1711, August 30. The Jersey at Jamaica. Lieut. Robert Littill to
the Rt. Hble. Thomas Coke, Vice Chamberlain, at his lodgings in St.
James's Palace.
The Nonsuch being ordered home I made a change with the
Lieutenant of the Jersey. We sailed to Hispaniola and thence to Cartha-
gena. We stood so near to Du Cass's ship, we could see his men on
the deck, but he went into Bochochecho. Next morning saw four sail
which we all {Defiance, Salisbury, Nonsuch and Jersey) chased, and
we took a small ship of war of 26 guns, which I came in Captain of,
and the Vice Admiral of Spain, who was wounded and since dead. We
have shared our prize money in parts. I have received 40/. I have
made bold to send you by the bearer a double doubloon for a pocket
piece, which I beg you will accept ; as also 20 pistoles to my mother,
which I beg you will let your steward send down to her. My Captain's
name is Vernon, which uses me with abundance of good manners : you
know his friends.
1711-2, February 6. "Ordei's to be observed at the Gate and in the
Court by Her Majesty's Porters and Provost Marshals on Wednesday
the 6th of February lTy-j being Her Majesty's Birthday."
That no Hackney Coaches be permitted to wait or hinder the Coaches
of Persons of Quality coming to St. James's Gate and attending there
conveniently.
That the Porters do not allow any persons to come into St. James's
Palace that day but Her Majesty's Servants, Persons of Quality and
Distinction, and their Retinue.
That no Hackney Coaches whatsoever be permitted that day to pass
beyond the entrance of the Great Gate of St. James's Palace.
That all Flamboys be extinguished at the entrance into the Gate there
and none suifered to be lighted in the said Palace.
That no Footman or other person be permitted to stay in any part of
the passage of the Piazza leading to the Great Staircase, but the Foot-
men and Chairmen only are to wait without in the Court, and no other
person, except the soldiers employed, to stand in the Court.
That there be a range of Foot Soldiers from the Great Gate to the
foot of the Great Stairs, and a sufficient guard at the Fore Gate, Back
Gate and all the passages and back doors.
That the doors towards the Pali-Mall and the Park be locked up
early that morning.
g 2
100 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coxb MSS. That a post or bar be set up in the gateway of the Back Court to
hinder all coaches from coming in there, as also to prevent all persons
except Her Majesty's Servants from coming into the Court that way.
That the Chairs of all persons of Quality be ranged in the Little
Court between the Great Staircase and Her Majesty's Back Stairs, and
one of the Porters is to wait at the foot of the Great Stairs to call for
the Chairmen and Footmen of Persons of Quality as occasion may require.
That no person or their servants be permitted to wait in the passage
near Her Majesty's Back Stairs except the servants immediately in
waiting on the Queen, all the Ladles of the Bedchamber, all the Women
of the Bedchamber, the Lord Treasurer and the Lord Chamberlain.
That the Bonefire be not lighted, nor the strong drink given to the
Soldiers till ten a clock at night.
1712, July 3. Grampound. Roger Teage to the Honble. Thomas
Coke, Vice Chamberlain.
Presuming you have not received an account of the proceedings that
happened here lately, I think it my duty (being for your interest) to send
you a particular account what was done by the Mayor and Recorder
the last law court : where being met, and a jury returned and sweareu,
they voted Thomas Dennis and Nathaniel Harvey out of the magistracy,
which two persons are entirely in your interest. The proceedings
herein being wrong, unjustifiable and without any former precedent,
they have made their application to me, desiring you would be pleased
to take a legal course to restore them, and to that end they beg the
favour you would employ Mr. Joseph Sherwood of New Inn. And it's
my humble request that for the future you'll order the News to be
directed to me, and not to the Mayor of Grampont.
1712, July 12. Dublin. Sir Richard Levinge to the Rt. Hhle. Mr.
Coke, Vice Chamberlain of Her Majesty's Household at St. James's.
I did myself the honour some months ago to write you a A-ery long
letter on the subject of the time. How things are altered since I do not
know ; and find every day the unhappiness of men in station in Ireland.
We are strangers to affairs, and know not how to apply ourselves to our
old friends, because we know not how they stand affected themselves, or
how they are in respect of others. It was the experience of your
goodness to me that made me give you so great a trouble : which also
gave me the confidence to impart to you some circumstances relating to
myself, which 1 would not have communicated to any other. . . I
will impute your silence to some very good reason, which I cannot
know where I am, nor is in your prudence proper to be told me. I
have a very great desire to wait upon you myself, but I cannot stir
without a licence under the great seal.
1712, July 23. Gand (Ghent). Colonel J. Cope to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
My Lord Duke of Ormonde will dine in town this day, but returns to
his quarters at night, which are taken three leagues from hence, where
the army is to encamp this night. ,'Tis thought we shall continue in
this situation for some time, at least till the cessation last declared be
expired, which is for two months. When the troops separated, they
say 'twas the melancholiest sight that ever was. The foreign Generals
took leave of my Lord Duke with tears in their eyes, and most of the
private men of both their troops and ours showed a more than ordinary
concern for parting with people they had so long served with. We
don't doubt but Prince Eugene will be master of Landrecies in a
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 101
small time, though believe that our traiu is a considerable loss to them. Coze MSS.
We have had several quarrels between the officers and private men of
the Dutch and Germans, in so much that we are forced to keep our men
as separate from them as possible. I must beg leave to recommend myself
to you for the continuance of your protection and favour, of which I
have had so great a share already. I beg my most humble compliments
to your lady.
1712, July 26. Grampound. Ito. Teage to [Vice Chamberlain Coke].
I am well satisfied by the advice of the Attorney General and Serjeant
Hooper that at present we have no legal Mayor : though I know that he
will when the time comes, which is the Sunday before Michaelmas Day,
proceed to the election of a new Mayor. If it comes to that, it will be
one of their own party, and perhaps as great a rogue as the pretended
Mayor is now. The time is so short that he caunot be put out before the
time comes. But with humble submission I have thought of a way,
"which will Jfrustrate all their designs and secure the interest; which is
by getting a new charter for us, which I know you can do, if you please.
I am verily persuaded it will be done cheaper than it will stand to try it
at law. I hope the young Mr. Vincent has waited on you with our
Address.
1712, August 2. Jersey at the Buoy of the Nore. Robert Littill to
the Rt. Hble. Mr. Coke, Vice Chamberlain, at his lodgings in St James's
House.
I ask pardon for not writing before, having touched at Newcastle
and Yarmouth : hut it hath been my misfortune, as well as the best part
of the ship's company, to be taken very ill since Ave came into the North-
ern Seas. But at this time we are all pretty well recovered. We
have been tomorrow eleven weeks from Jamaica : the length of the
voyage was caused by our coming north about. I have never heard of
any of my friends since I have been out of the land.
1712, August 2. Bath. William Skrine to Thomas Coke, Vice
Chamberlain, at Windsor. .
I had this morning the honour of your commands for taking the
same lodgings you had last. I went to Mrs. Gibbs, but could not get
her to take less than you gave her last. I am very much obliged to you
for making use of my tenant's stables : I've ordered him to get them
ready. I wish you a good journey. My moct humble service to your
lady.
1712, August o. N.S. Terroa in .Portugal. Charles Keightley to
[Vice Chamberlain Coke].
I return you my hearty thanks for the honour )ou have always done
me and my brother, and in recommending me to my Colonel, which is
now Brigadier Vessey. He has given me a Lieutenant's commission,
and is very kind to me upon all occasions. Our army here are all in
quarters and in expectation cf a peace. I humbly beg of your honour
that if there are any regiments ordered to go abroad, that you'll give me
your interest to go with any of them. 1 understand that my brother is
yet a prisoner : 1 have not heard from him since I had the honour of
seing you last.
1712, August 9. Chilcott. Colonel Henry Hunt to the fit. Hble.
Thomas Coke, Vice Chamberlain to her Majesty at St James's Palace.
Your horse proved as I expected, and I hone will to the last, and
though all odds were laid against you, we won it with case ; and the
s.
J.
7
6
15
7
6
7
(5
102 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
rider (which was the Lord Chesterfield's groom called " Fine George "
that lived formerly with the Duke of Rutland) assures me he'll be the
best horse in England another year. If you'll let him he believes he can
help you to a chapman : but unless you have a great rate for him, every
body advises the keeping of him. And if you please to favour me with
it, he shall be very welcome. He is this minute going back to Blockley
where T should be glad to receive your commands. The unexpected
success made Mr. Hardinge and myself too generous, as you'll see by the
charges on the other side.
Mr. Clarke paid his forfeiture 5 guineas - - 5
Mr. Burdett 10 guineas - - - - 10
Mr. Fisher for you 5 guineas - - - 5
Col. Hunt ft guineas - - - - 5
gave the rider 2 guineas
for a riding suit ... -
to the groom -
for drawing the articles the winning horse to pay
extraordinary charges on the road and at Swarson
The half of 26/. 17s. 6 d. is
71. 9s. 3d. is -
There is in hands for Madm. Coke
I hope the next will be a gold cup.
(1712, August.) Grampound. Roger Teage to the Rt. Honble. the
Vice Chamberlain Coke at St James's, London.
I have the favour of yours, and since all the acts of the pretended
Mayor are void, there is no occasion for us to trouble ourselves any
further, or to have any further thoughts of a new charter. And seeing
I have already entered a protest in form against his proceedings, I
should think it not advisable for us to attend the election of a new
Mayor ; about which I desire you will be pleased to discourse the old
Mr. Vincent when he comes to wait on you. And what you and he
think fit to be done here shall be performed to the utmost of my power.
1712, September 6. Ghent. General C. Sibourg to [Vice Chamber-
ain Coke].
Last Saturday I received yours of the 3rd. August: where it has been
all this time I cannot imagine. With a great pleasure I'll perform those
little commissions you honour me with. Next week I'll go to Antwerp
to get the velvet; that is, as I am told ; the best place. I am in doubt
about the cambrick : the pieces are of different sizes, some are for nine
handkerchiefs, others for double the number. The finest I can find
here for nine will come about four pistoles. I shall expect your direc-
tion as to that. I fear we shall have time enough to exchange letters
before I can think of getting for Great Britain. It is but too common
that we that are at our duty neglect our business; and this time may
be called the critical minute. We have reports here of the breaking of
20 17
6
- 2 3
- 1 1
- 1 1
10
2 12
6
9
6
7 9
3
- 13 8
- 3 14
9
7
- 9 14
2
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 103
many more regiments than our first list of 36. If so it must be very Coke MSS.
bad with me. You are the best friend I can have recourse to both for
advice and assistance. It is a damned thing to outlive one's trade,
principalement quand on a tou jours compte sans son hoste, and the
balance is always on the wrong side. This is pretty melancholy, but
Vogue la galere; avec un tel pilote que vous, je me fais fort de passer .
tous les ecueils. Think of poor John in pudding time. I'll take of
coffee colour handkerchiefs and plain snuff. If my zeal is as great in
these trifles, I hope you'll believe I only want power for matters of
greater moment.
(1712), September 9. N. S. Ghent. General C. Sibourg to [Vice
Chamberlain Ccke].
We have the news of my Lord Rivers being dead. It may happen
that some of our great men, either of horse or dragoons, may get that
old regiment, and by that some of my low station might be thought of
for the regiment they leave. I don't doubt but you remember that the
time the Queen ordered my Lord Lansdowne to tell me Her Majesty's
pleasure for the regiment I have at present, his Lordship had also orders
to assure me that Her Majesty designed to provide for me when
occasion offered in the horse. What I wish I could obtain is the Queen's
being put in mind of that gracious assurance : and you, dear Sir, are
the person I fly to for this assistance. I spoke about this to the Duke
of Ormond this day : he seems to be very zealous in granting me his
protection : he said it would be well to have the Queen spoke to. The
rest I leave to my good friend. I hate repetitions, except it be in
assuring you of the sincerest gratitude a soul is capable of. I have
often thought to have reason for flattering myself with my Lord
Bolingbroke's protection.
(1712), September 24. Ghent. General C. Sibourg to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Last night I returned to this town from Antwerp, where I went to
find some good velvet, but there is none broader than three quarters of
a Dutch ell, and of that breadth 2(5 Dutch ells will not be sufficient for
a lady's mantua and petticoat. The ladies here 36. 1 would buy none,
fearing the narrow velvet would not please. Pray send me your orders,
i have bought snuff and handkerchiefs ; I wish I was to carry them to
you this moment. This is now but a tedious place, since Ave have no
business. They tell me old Palmer is very ill. Dear Sir, pray remember
poor John in the time of need. I hear they have given away the rank
of my regiment. How it is done, or by whom, I don't know; but this
is the matter. By virtue of an order signed by King William and
confirmed by her Majesty, those regiments raised in England took post
of those raised in any other place, they only having their seniority by
coming on the English establishment ; by which 1 was before a good
many. But how this has been altered 1 am not informed. You see,
Sir, that I have reason to fear that after five or six and twenty years
service, seven of them as a general officer, I am like to see myself with
half pay as Colonel, and that for one year. You are near the Sun ; I
heg a little light and advice. You are the only friend I have any
recourse to. 'Tis hard to starve when I see a crowd of young fellows
assured of living at ease.
1712, September 27. Bucklebury. Edward Hungerford to Vice
Chamberlain Coke at Bath.
I am desired by my niece to acquaint you she received your historical
letter of the place where you are, and is much concerned she is not able
104 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cora mss. to answer herself. ... In your return with your lady from the Bath r
she hopes you will be as good as your word, and take Bucklebury in
your way. Pray be pleased to salute the Cardinal in her Ladyship's
name, and trouble him with the kind remembrance of her amanuensis-
and his brother bachelor. And if you should all happen to join in a
visit to the melancholy lady of this mansion, it will be a mighty
aggravation of the favour both to her Ladyship and her unworthy
scribe, but your most humble servant.
1712-13, January 12. Probus. Dr. William Smyth to (no address).
I return you my hearty thanks for your care about my own concern,
as well as what relates to our borough (Grampound). Mr. .Hughes sent
me word that long looked for was come : he was going to Mr. Philip
Hawkins to have a warrant filled up on the special writ, and was in
hopes to serve the law on the late pretended Mayor. Mr. Nicholas
Herle came to my house last night on his way to Truro, and there at
sessions to enter in his office. ... I hope you'll pardon the im-
portunity of the triumvirate, and construe our earnestness to proceed from
our zeal to support my Lord (Lansdown's) interest, and to frustrate Mr.
Bus . . . n's (Bcscawen's) designs in our corporation. What progress
we make shall constantly be made known to you : and we shall request
you to continue your hearty concern for our borough : your diligence and
application having this very day given us new spirits and put our hearts
at ease. My Lord's interest is what we chiefly aim at: but that Mr. B.
may be baffled we shall spare no pains. Pray our duties to my Lord.
My thanks and service to Mr. Coke when you wait on him again.
1712-3, February 20. Deal. Robert Littill to the Rt. Hble.
Mr. Coke, Vice Chamberlane, at his lodgings in St. James's House,
London.
I have not yet been on board by reason of the bad weather : but I have
seen the Captain on shore, who promises me all the conveniency the
ship will allow. Captain Paddon is to command the ships bound on this
expedition : he is in the Ruby riding here in the Downs. I beg you will
be pleased to get an order out from the Admiralty Board directed for
Captain Paddon to provide for me as Lieutenant the first vacancy as
falls in the voyage. Pray direct for me on Board the Feversham in the
Downs.
1712-3, February 23. Blockley Colonel Henry Hunt to the Rt.
Hble. Thomas Coke, Vice Chamberlain to Her Majesty, at his lodgings
in St. James's, London.
There is a plate of between 20/. and 30/. to be run for at Salisbury
the 18th of next month, only one heat, ten stone, and a guinea the
entrance. I don't look upon the match in Derbyshire to be any trial for
your horse : therefore, if you think fit, I'll go with him to Salisbury,
where we shall see what we may expect from him. I think you can
never have a trial cheaper, but I shall observe your commands. I find
I am not so happy as to have the Queen's leave yet, and the Captain
that is to succeed me will not lay out a penny till he has his commission,
so the service will suffer if the troop's not in order. Therefore I beg the
favour that you'll do me the favour to forward it, for I would now
willingly know the Queen's resolution about it.
1712-3. February 16. Probus near Grampound. Dr. William Smyth
to [Vice Chamberlain Coke].
I had the honour to be intimately acquainted with Mr. James Buller
deceased and was at his house when Mr. Alexander Pendarves desired
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 105
him to recommend your honour to Grampond, which he did by com- Cokk M8S.
manding me to signify the same to the Borough. Soon after he died.
Then I acquainted his heir, Mr. John Buller of Morval, that his nephew
had recommended Mr. Coke to Grampound, and desired he would do the
same. He did so, and I attended the election ; and after the election
gave every one of your friends a pair of mourning gloves. I wrote
Mr. Buller that your honour was unanimously chosen, and desired his
letter of thanks to the town, which was accordingly sent. I only
mention this to your honour, that it may be advisable to compliment the
old gentleman, and to thank him for his last favour, and to request him
to join with my Lord Lansdowne in his recommendation of your honour
again. Not that we need his help ; but a letter may be of service, and
may restrain three of the magistrates from acting against my Lord's
interest. The cause of Grampound must be tried before a judge that is
no friend to .... or perhaps Fletcher will make no plea to the
declaration : if so we are at a loss, and so must try other ways and means :
and Mr. Buller can certainly influence the present Mayor and his
brethren in iniquity. I sometime since intimated this to my Lord.
And now, Sir, I return you my hearty thanks for your most obliging
letter, and for the trouble you've taken in qualifying me to be more service-
able to my neighbours here below, and my noble friends above. I must
own I have retained a secret veneration for your person, ever since I
heard Mr. Pendarves say to Mr Buller, that you was the only man that
could be entrusted to deliver those secret messages to the Queen, by
which prudent management, under God, we are now happy in a faith-
ful and wise ministry and a loyal House of Commons. I must likewise
acknowledge that I truly love and honour my good Lord Lansdowne,
for whose good and welfare I am not only obliged in duty to pray, as
having received so many favours from his Lordship, and do now stand
happily related to his Lordship ; but because I have made this observation
to myself, that whenever it went well with the Granvilles, it went well with
the Church of England, but when that illustrious family were obscured,
or had not the smiles of the Court, it was then the Church laboured under
her greatest struggles and difficulties. Our churches in Cornwall retain a
letter from the blessed Martyr, King Charles, setting forth the great loss
sustained by the death of Sir Bevil Granville ; as though he had foreseen
that the death of such a General and branch of that family was the
presage, or forerunner, of the downfall of monarchy and episcopacy.
Now, Sir, well knowing what good services you have done in being an
instrument in rescuing us from the jaws of a devouring faction, I was
obliged by all the ties of interest, principle, and love to our happy
establishment, to serve you cheerfully and heartily, and to leave no stone
unturned to secure your next election. And what could I do less than
promote my Lord Lansdownc's interests ? for should the Whigs ever
again get the ascendant, they would insult his person, roast the honest
clergy, and bring the Church into extreme danger. So that self pre-
servation, and a real concern for the good of Great Britain, and the
regard I owe to my mother, the Church of England, and the allegiance
due to the best of Queens, did move me to exert all my strength and
ability to make Grampond again happy by being represented by your
honour. Sir, I have only done my duty, satisfied my conscience, and
given my Lord a small grateful acknowledgment of his great kindness
to me, by endeavouring to put our neighbouring boroughs under his
Lordship's patronage, and continuing our corporation in great repute, by
being honoured with such a burgess as Mr. Coke. I am so sensible of
your favours, that 1 will not omit any future opportunity to complete the
undertaking of myself and colleagues, and to give you more pregrant
106 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
testimony, that you was not much mistaken when your honour thought
fit to oblige, worthy Sir, your most faithful, thankful, and obedient
servant. I humbly beg your honour to join with my Lord in procuring
a small place for one Mr. Cary. Mr. Vincent has a petition signed by
many of my Lord's friends in Mr. Cary's behalf.
1712-3, March 5. (Portsmouth.) Lieut. Robert Littill to the
Rt. Hble. the Vice Chamberlain at his lodgings in St. James's House,
London.
Captain Paddon sailed for Plymouth to get all the ships ready that
was bound for Lisbon. We in company with H.M.'s ship Rye Galley
put in here to see if any ships for those parts was here. We are now in
a readiness to sail, but it blows very hard. Captain Paddon is still at
Plymouth, where I hope he has received the order you was pleased to
promise me. I have a cabin on board here, and live very happy, until
your goodness will think of something better.
1713, May 4. The manner of proclaming the Peace with France as it
was ordered by Her Majesty in Council.
The Peace to be proclaimed on horseback at St. James's Grate and then
they proceed in manner following.
A Detachment of the Horse Granadiers.
Officers of the Steward's Court of Westminster.
Knight Marshall Men.
Knight Marshall. Steward of Westminster. High Bailiff of Westminster.
Queen's Trumpets.
Serjeant Trumpet bearing his mace.
Serjeants at Arms 1 p . , . . f Serjeants at Arms
with their maces. J L with their maces.
A Serjeant at Arms. Kings of Arms. A Serjeant at Arms.
The Horse Guard.
In this manner they proceed to Temple Bar where they are received
by the Lord Mayor Aldermen Recorder and Sheriffs of London on
horseback attended as usual, and a little within the Gate they proclaim
it a second time, after which they proceed in this manner.
Detachment of the Horse Granadiers.
Knight Marshall and his men.
The Queen's Trumpets.
Serjeant Trumpet bearing his mace.
Pursuivants at Arms.
Serjeants at Arms. Heralds of Arms. Serjeants at Arms.
A Serjeant at Arms. Kings of Arms. A Serjeant at Arms.
The City Officers f The Sword Bearer. "1 The City Officers
and Attendants on foot. \ The Lord Mayor, j and Attendants on foot.
Aldermen Recorder and Sheriffs in their places.
The Horse Guard.
Being come to the place where the Cross formerly stood at Cheapside
over against Wood Street, they proclaim it a third time and lastly in
like manner at the Royal Exchange at Change time.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 107
1713, August 18. London. Dr. William Smyth of Probus to [Vice Cogs M8S.
Chamberlain Coke].
How much my Lord Lansdowne's interest at Grampound has been sup-
ported by Mr. Roger Teage is well known to your honour. Ask that
his brother John Teage may be moved from his place of Collector of
Excise in Gloucestershire to a like place in Cornwall. Richard Davies
lately an officer in Truro division for duties on hides &c. has been
dismissed upon an information against him that he is indebted to tanners
and tawers. He has sent up to the Board certificates of the tanners and
tawers of his division that he is not indebted to them. He has enemies
by making seizures, particularly upon Peter Herle of Grampound, Mr.
Boscawen's tool, and pretended Mayor of Grampound. If honest men
attack Mr. B.'s friends, a means is found to discharge them, and give
their posts to his agents. It will be of mighty consequence that our
friends be encouraged, the elections coming on again, by bringing back
Mr. John Teage, and restoring the poor man Davies. I should be glad
for my friends' interest in Tregony if Mr. Can's two sons in law, Henry
Tredwen and Edward Richards could be made Boatmen at Penryn : and
that Richard Andrew of Tregony could succeed Mr. Asterly as land
waiter at St. Ives in Cornwall. I am likewise desired to solicit for one
Nicholas Andrew to be Tidewaiter at Padstow in the room of R. Croker
or W. Lock. There was a petition sent up, signed by many gentlemen
and freeholders of Cornwall, in behalf of Mr. Nathaniel Cary, a relation
of Mr. Cary of Clovelly, that my Lord Lansdowne woidd be pleased to
procure some small place for him. I beg that he may be gratified, for he
is in great distress, and has a great family. I was likewise solicited
that Mr. Richard Weekes of my parish should be placed as an extra-
ordinary man on shipboard. I think I have gone though all the matters
given me in charge in behalf of my Cornish friends. I have to ask you
that by your interest with the Board or with Mr. Harley you will please
to remove Mr. Broughton, the present Collector of Excise for Cornwall to
some other county. There are many of Mr. Boscawen's tools at St. Mawes
and other places of our County, which are kept in their places, though
they vote at every election against the friends of the Queen and
Ministry. Many honest Cornish electors sincerely wish Mr. Boscawen's
creatures discharged, and loyal persons put in their places, before the
elections. Pray exert your interest with my Lord Treasurer on this
point. I think this is sufficient for Cornwall : only I wish my Lord and
you would forthwith agree upon a good partner at Grampound ; and that
two substantial persons be recommended for Tregony. I beg leave I
may intercede for my own two brothers, who live in London. They
both were brought up to the drawing and flatting gold and silver wire ;
which trade being much decayed, and having many children, are reduced
to great straits. For one I would only ask a warder's place in the
Tower of London : for the other any place here, about London : he is
truly honest, truly loyal. I have my only son with me, and I would
gladly place him in the Charterhouse School, if you would speak to any
of the Governors in his behalf. And when opportunity presents, I flatter
myself that my good Lord and Mr. Coke will procure me some additional
preferment to what I have already. Probably your Royal Mistress may
have some to bestow in a short time, which I may have though I live in
Cornwall.
(1713?) "Order for posting the Sentinels at Windsor upon the
Kiithday." Sentinels to be posted by the Foot Guards.
108 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Com M6S. At the Castle
At the Iron Gate a Sergeant and 12 men - - 12
In the Kitchen Court - - - -4
At the stairs of the Green Cloth Tower - - 2
At the Ladies of the Bedchambers' stairs - - 2
At the backstairs to the Gallery - - - 2
At the Queen's backstairs - - - - 2
At Mrs. Danvers's stairs - - - - 2
At the Keep - - - - - 2
At the Old Council Chamber stairs - - - 2
At the Maids of Honour's stairs - - - 2
At the Lord Treasurer's stairs - - - 2
At Mrs. Cooper's stairs - - - - 2
At the Lord Mashatn's stairs - - - 2
At the Green Cloth stairs - - - - 2
At the Bishop of Ossory's stairs - - - 2
At the Lord Bolingbroke's Office stairs - - 2
44
At the Garden House. In the morning
At the fore door a Sergeant and 11 men - - 12
At the door to the Kitchen Court - - - 6
At the Duchess of Somerset's door - - - 2
20
As soon as the Company is dismissed at the Garden House
At the fore door - - - - - 6
At the door to the Kitchen Court - - - 4
At the Duchess of Somerset's door - - - 2
12
A Subaltern Officer and 30 men to remain near the Garden House all
day.
The Guards at the Queen's Garden House and at the Iron Gate to
keep the passage clear of ordinary people.
The Sentinels at the several Stairs to keep the Stairs clear from any
ordinary people that don't belong to the families there, and to be
assistant to prevent any disorder.
Yeomen of the Guard to be posted
At the Castle
At the foot of the Great Stairs - - 6
At the top of the Great Stairs - 4
At the Queen's backstairs - - 1
At the backstairs by the Ladies of the Bed-
chambers' Lodgings - - - 1
At the backstairs by the Gallery - - 1
In the Privy Chamber by the Gallery door - 2
15 15
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
109
In the Garden House
In the passage at the top of the stairs
At the bottom of the same stairs
At the back stairs
Cokb MSS,
20
1713-1, January 4. Cockpit. John Evans to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
I have found a house, with the approbation of the Commissioners
[of Commerce] that will do : it is next door to Newbourg House in
the Park. The rent is 100/. for six months furnished. Considering
the expense that would be in furnishing from the Great Wardrobe, I
believe your Honour will think it much the cheaper way to take it
furnished, and thereby save more money to the Queen. 1 do find by
the Commissioners' Secretary that they have a great mind to Mr.
Craig's house, for he told me today it would serve for another office,
after they had done with it, which revived in my thoughts your
Honour's opinion that it would introduce Lord Mar into the Plantation
Office at Whitehall, by removing that office to Craig Court.
1713-4, January 19. Cockpit. John Evans to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
I have spoke to Mr. Holbeck about Mr. Ireland's [of the Ward-
robe] money; who has promised to stop it. Enclosed is the Managers
of the Playhouse Remonstrance, and two letters for Monsieur Rosencrans
and C 1 Vandernath's presents.
1713-4, January 25. Christ Church, Oxon. W. Stratford to Vice
Chamberlain Coke.
I beg leave to return my sincere thanks for all the favours I received
at Windsor, and for the very easy conveyance you were pleased to
provide for me to Reading. I must own I was somewhat out of coun-
tenance at the state of it, and those I met were surprised to see one of
my cloth so accommodated. I must leave the Lady of Bucklebury to
express her own thanks for the favour of your letter. ... I believe
you must be content to hear from her, and not expect to see her this
winter, unless you go to her. I have sent you the Chronological
Tables : they were published by one Marshall, but they were drawn up
by the Bishop of Worcester, and are the most exact that ever yet came
out. I have not yet sent the Orteliu.i, because I found mine was not
his Geography with maps, but only his Geographical Dictionary without
any maps; which would have been of no use to you, and there are
much better Dictionaries since his time.
1713-4, January 31. Windsor Castle. Lord Bolingbroke to Vice
Chamberlain Coke.
Sir 1 have just time to acquaint you that my Lord Treasurer would
have you imniediatly hier Craig house for six months certain, with
a power to continue it a longer time, if ocation ; or any other house
that is convenient for the Commissioners that are appointed to settle
the Treaty of Commerce.
1714, August 18. Suffolk Street. Earl of Suffolk (Lord Marshal)
to Mr. Vice Chamherlain Coke.
Sir, the solemnity of the Interment of the late Queen being to be
performed (pursuant to the Resolution of the Lords Justices in Council)
110 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Com MSS. with great Respect and Decency, you are appointed to assist the two
Duchesses who are to bear the Chief Mourner's Train on this Occasion,
and to meet in the House of Peers at Westminster on Sunday the
22nd instant, at the Hour of six in the Evening.
(1714 about), August 13. Lady Catharine Clark to Mr. Vice
Chamberlain Coke.
. . . I thank God I have mended ever since I desired Dr.
RatchclifPs opinion for my health : but my weakness and disorder is
so apt to return that I thought it convenient to have his directions by
me ; which I find is a particular favour, granted I do suppose wholly
upon Mrs. Betty Coke's account, who stood very much my friend in
that, as also in every thing else, wherein I have had great experience
of her kindness. I am much concerned for your lady's indisposition,
but wish her a speedy recovery, and yourself and daughters free from
any attacks of the like nature, together with a good journey to the
Bath, and all the benefit that place can possibly afford. All this neigh-
bourhood are confirmed in their wishes of waiting upon you atMelborne
the next month, by the assurance Colonel Hunt, who is now here, has
given them of your coming about that time into the country. I suppose
you may have heard before now, how victorious your horse has been
at Weston Race, and gained such immortal honour as to be reckoned
amongst the jockeys as the best horse in England. There was a noble
appearance of gentlemen, and all the ladies of that side the country ;
and though my health did not permit me to be in the number of spec-
tators, yet I may brag I was in those who betted their money on your
side, and must own I was particularly pleased in your good fortune.
1714, October 1. Earl of Radnor to [Vice Chamberlain Coke].
Sir, I was to wait on you at your lodgings, but had not the good
fortune to find you at home. It was to acquaint you that King William
gave that little lodging to Mrs. Aspinwall on the account of the suffer-
ings of her father, Sir Ralph Freeman. It never belonged to any office,
as I shall inform you, when I have the honour to see you.
1714, October. A List of the several Lodgings in St. James's House
and the Persons by whom possessed. [Indorsed by Vice-Chamberlain
Coke, " List of Persons lodged in St. James's before his Majesty's
arrival."]
My Lord Chamberlain. Two Rooms under the King's Lodgings.
My Lord Oxford, formerly Col. Griffith's, Officer of the Green-
cloth.
Mr. Vice Chamberlain.
Mr. Scarburgh, Officer of the Greencloth.
My Lord De la Warr, a Large Apartment.
My Lord Masham's Office, as Cofferer.
Bishop of London two Rooms, possessed by one of the Chapel.
Mr. Lucas, Keeper of the Chapel Closet.
Mr. Faverall's lodgings, the first Master Cook.
Mr. Hounslef, the second Master Cook.
Mr. Dissell, the third Master Cook.
Mr. Buckholt, Yeoman of the Robes to his late Royal Highness
the Prince.
Mr. Hipseley (as looks after the cesspools).
Mrs. Arundell, Bedchamber Woman to Queen Anne.
Mrs. Hartstongue, Bedchamber Woman, keeps the key.
Maids of Honour. Six Lodgings.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. Ill
Mr. Sherrard, Gentleman Usher of the Privy Chamber. Cora MSS.
Mrs. Hopgood, her husband dead, belonged to Queen Anne.
Mrs. Dole, her husband was a Cook to the Duke of Gloster.
Mrs. Foiston, Necessary Woman.
Mr. Coleman, Officer in the Woodyard.
Mrs. Moore, Sempstress to Queen Anne ; her lodging is cleared,
but has the key.
His Majesty's Chaplains' Dining Room.
Clerk of the Kitchen's Office.
Removing Wardrobe.
Spicery, Ewry, Pantry, Scullery, Scalding House, Flesh Larder,
and Laundress.
Sweeper of the Courts.
Mr. Brown, Under Housekeeper.
(Note by Vice Chamberlain Coke.) " Lodgings granted by K.
William to my Lady Freman and her daughter, upon account of many
thousand pounds lent to King Charles and a considerable estate spent
in his Majesty's service, King Charles the Second : of which my Lord
Radnor gave an account to Monsr. Cranenburg and Baron Bothmar."
1 714, November 12. Vice Chamberlain Coke to the Earl of Oxford.
(Draft.)
My Lord, Hearing your Lordship would be willing, if you could
have the Charcoal House and the ground it stands upon, to build your
Library, to part with the piece of ground which goes to the new build-
ings, which would be convenient to his Majesty's service, to make
some cellars and other conveniences, which are wanting now to the
family. I beg the favour to know your Lordship's mind upon it ; that
it may be put in a way of being exchanged to the advantage of his
Majesty's service, and your accommodation.
1714, November 12. Earl of Oxford to [Vice Chamberlain Coke].
Ever since Mr. Lowman spoke to me, I have been confined to my
chamber by excesive pain, which hath hindered me waiting upon you,
on Mr. Lowman's proposal ; for I will in no way be wanting in any-
thing I can to accommodate his Majesty's service. My Library being
all MSS., the Crown and the Nation have more real concern in them
than myself. And having cost me so many thousand pounds, I was
willing to have them in a place of security. It made me think of buying
Lord Fitzharding's, and building a Library there, of which I had a
draught. The Queen forbid me treating there, and ordered me to buy
this, and promised me a lease, and ground to build. But God took
away the good Queen ; and I have been at great expense to make the
house habitable, which I intend to leave now to my son ; and would
willingly secure the Library, which if lost is not to be restored. This
is the truth of my case : and I hope by Monday to be able to wait upon
you, because I would lose no time in retiring to the country.
1714, December 10. Vice Chamberlain Coke to the Earl of Oxford.
(Draft.)
I am desired to acquaint your Lordship that his Majesty would buy
your term of the whole Grant, and that your Lordship is desired to make
your demand as to the price. I mentioned what your Lordship desired
as to the occasion you should have to keep it till Lady Harriet Harley
had lain in : but 1 could not tell the time you reckoned that would
be. I beg the favour of your Lordship to let me have your answer
as to these particulars, and your commands in anything else to my
power.
112 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
CotbMSS. 1714, December 13. Earl of Oxford to [Vice Chamberlain Coke].
Sir, Your letter found me under a relapse, not having been out of the
house since Tuesday last, and my hands have been so swelled I could
not hold a pen until now ; which I make use of to give a distinct answer
to the three particulars you mention in your letter.
The first is, 1. That it is his Majesty's pleasure to purchase my
whole Grant &c.
I can ansAvcr this in no better terms than I have done before the
whole, or part, is at his Majesty's command.
2. As to the time of my daughter's lying in.
She reckons the end of January, and is immediately coming to town.
Young women are not so exact in reckoning of their first child, but it
cannot be much difference, and after that is over, no time will be lost
in going out.
3. As to the price.
I cannot tell whether it will be decent for me to make a price to his
Majesty: but as I would not ask a farthing more of the Crown than it
would be worth to any private person, so I presume upon his Majesty's
justice that he would not have me take less.
The prime cost was 3,500/. I have spent near nine months in
repairing it, which has cost more than new building it would have
done, as will appear upon view; besides what is clone to beautify it
within, and to secure it by taking all the timber out of the chimneys and
walls.
I am a little cautious in naming a price, because, when I proposed
an exchange so many hundred pounds to his Majesty's advantage, it was
not taken as I intended it.
However, I will examine all my bills of charges, and when anyone
(as is customary) is appointed to treat, I hope my proposals will appear
very reasonable, being resolved to found them or those accounts of what
it stands me in.
1714-5, January 7. Vice Chamberlain Coke to the Earl of Oxford.
(Draft.)
My Lord, Yesterday my Lord Halifax spoke to me to make this
proposal to your Lordship that his Majesty pay the 3,500/., the first
purchase money, and interest of that sum from the time, your Lordship
paid the money to the Duke of Grafton to the time of his Majesty's
purchasing it of your Lordship, and likewise whatever your Lordship
have laid out in repairing and filling the house to the condition it is
now in, as it shall appear by the bills, and the inventory of what you
propose to leave in the house. If your Lordship approve of this,
which 1 think is the ground on which you founded the demand of the
7,000/., and will order anybody to prepare the bills, there will be one
appointed, with the person you shall name, to prepare everything with
all expedition to finish this affair as soon as possible, and I hope to your
Lordship's entire satisfaction.
171-1-5, January. A paper indorsed by Vice Chamberlain Coke,
" List of Pictures that were in the Earl of Oxford's Lodgings at St.
James's."
1. Over the Chimney Piece The Princess of Orange, half length,
by YVissing.
o i
~" [ Two Seaports by Danckert.
3. J
4. The Duke of Buckingham's Family, by Honthorst.
5. A Diana by Gennari.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 113
6. A Roman.
7. A half length French Lady with a horn.
8. A half length Lady Abbess the manner of Sir Antony More.
9. The Stoning of St. Stephen in two colours.
10. St. George a killing the Dragon.
11. A Madonna with St. Catherine and St. Jerome after Corregio.
12. A Woman a holding a Standard.
13. A Sleeping Venus with Cupids by Gennari.
14. Pomfret Castle.
15. A Head of the Lady Maria Henrietta.
16. An Eropia (Europa ?)
17. Our Saviour Scourged.
18. Three Ladies Heads in one piece.
19. A Landscape with a Bridge.
20. A Sea Monster with seven breasts.
21. A Madonna with St. John when a child.
22. A Young Man's Head, in red slashed sleeves.
23. Actason and Diana.
24. A Sea Piece.
25. Our Saviour a curing the blind.
26. A French Gentleman's Head with a point cravat.
27. A Seaport by Danckert.
28. A St. John with a Lamb by Corregio.
29. A Triumph by Hell Brueghel.
30. A Ship piece in distemper.
31. A Soldier's Head large life with his hand on his beard.
32. A French Lady's Head three-quarter.
1715, August 7 (N.S.) Bruxelles. T.Kennedy to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
I have received a letter from Baron Bothmar, who has done me
the honour to interest himself to obtain of his Majesty the present
that is usually given, which Mrs. Kennedy should have had by the
death of Mr. Vrybergue : and he informs me he has had the King's
orders for it, and that you were so kind as to assist him in it. Which
is the reason I take the liberty to assure you of Mrs. Kennedy's and
my most grateful acknowledgments for this favour : and if there be
anything we can be serviceable to you and your lady at Bruxelles, I
hope you will honour us with your commands.
1715, December 16. St. James. De Robethon.
I do hereby certify that when the assignation was presented to the
King to have Jane Spencer paid out of the German cash, for cleaning
several apartments in the Palace, his Majesty refused to sign it, and
said she ought to bo paid out of the English establishment, as well as
the rest of those women. And since the others, as Mrs. Peach and the
like, have got warrants in order to receive money at Christmas, I hope
the Lord Chamberlain will be so kind as to order a wan-ant to be
prepared for her, and that she may also be reimbursed of her bills,
being out of pocket for several little things all which I apprehend to
be just and conform to the King's intentions.
( Inciosure . His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales for cleaning
his apartments 3 days. For Count Platten 7 rooms since the King
came. For Secretary Rupton 6 rooms. Mr. Hatrofe 2 rooms).
1715. Goods furnished at St. James'e Palace by the Groom Porter.
To the Countess of Schulenberg ; to the young Princes ; to the
Prince's Dressing Room ; io the Lord Powletts at Somerset House;
U 58973. n
114 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. to Mrs. Clayton ; to the Prince of Wales's New Apartment ; to the
Chocolate Room ; to the Duchess of St. Albans ; to a Lady's Room
above ; to the Foreign Council ; to the Semstress ; to the Young Princess'
New Rooms ; to the Lady Governess ; to the Nursery ; to the young
Lady Schulenberg ; to the Countess of Kielmanseck ; to Mr. Lochmau ;
to Mustapha Turk ; to Ulrich ; to the Prince's Guard Chamber ; to the
Waiters' Eating Room ; to the Pages, Mr. Pursell and Mr. Brickman ;
to the Womens' Eating Room ; to the Vice Chamberlain Poultry &c. ;
to the Vestry of the Chapel.
(No date.) A List of the Barges that attended His Majesty to
Gravesend.
The King's Shallop The Treasury of the Navy's 8 Oared
Barge
The King's 12 Oared Barge The Office of Ordnance 8 Oared Barge
The King's 6 Oared Barge The Navy 6 Oared Barge
The Master's 6 Oared Barge The Admiralty 6 Oared Barge
The Master's 4 Oared Barge Sir William Windham's 4 Oared Boat
And 5 Galleys for the Servants and Baggage.
1716, May 14. A paper endorsed by Vice Chamberlain Coke " Lord
Harley's desire about his ground at St. James's."
Lord Harley having upon several occasions accommodated the
Officers of his Majesty's Works and others for his Majesty's service
with the use of several parts of the ground at St. James's within his
Grant : but sheds and other the like buildings having been lately
erected upon the said ground without his leave first asked, or know-
ledge : his Lordship desires such entries may be made in the books of
the Office of Works, and signification thereof sent him in writing as
may be sufficient for preserving his Lordship's property in all parts
of his Grant, and that the said ground may be delivered up to his Lord-
ship when he shall desire it.
1716, July 16. Queen Street, near So-hoe. Dr. William Smyth to
[Vice Chamberlain Coke].
I have been many months in town, and must beg your pardon that
I have not waited on you. But really, Sir, I have met with many
.great disappointments, and because I could not appear before my friends
with as good an interest as formerly, I have forborn to visit them :
though I persuade myself I should have been received by you, with as
much kindness as when I supported your election at Grampound. I shall
speedily return to Cornwall, but before I go I beg the favour to let me
know when it suits with your conveniency that I may wait on you, to
crave your advice and assistance in reference to some matters of conse-
quence to me and my family, who must inevitably be ruined, should our
good old friend miscarry by his close confinement. I suppose Mr.
Southwell is in town ; and his election which was so burdensome must
bear hard on me, if I have not the monies repaid : at least some part to
supply my present very urgent occasions. But if Mr. Southwell will not
part with any more as a debt due from him, I hope you will prevail
with him to lend me some, till my Lord is at liberty.
1716, September 26. James Brydges, Earl of Carnarvon, to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Sir, I am under great confusion to think I have been so long in
answering your last favour: but I am confident you have a juster
opinion of me than to impute it to any want of respect I can be capable
of towards one, with whom I have had so long a friendship, and for
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 115
vhom I have so perfect a value. The money you remitted on Mr. CjkeMSS
ilammond's account hath been paid to Colonel Brown, and I believe
came very seasonably to him, for the sending his son over. The Prince
set out on Menday from Hampton Court, for Portsmouth, and took a
little tour through Kent and Sussex. His first day's journey was 57
miles, the next 56 : the third day he was to re.st at Portsmouth, and
comes back on Thursday to Hampton Court. I hear it talked as if the
Princess had an inclination to lie in at Hampton Court : but the incon-
veniences attending it will be so many and great, that I cannot but
think those who have the honour to be about Her Royal Highness will
use their utmost to dissuade her. I return my thanks for your oblig-
ing invitation into Derbyshire. I wish I had leisure enough to accept
it, for I know nobody whose conversation would make me pass my time
more agreeably : but my misfortune is to be detained in or near the
town by business, which is of consequence enough to take up all my
thoughts and time.
1716, December 15. Hanover. Madame de Kielmensegge to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
Monsieur, Vous ne vous dementes pas a mon egard : vous continues
vos mannieres obligeantes dans l'absence, comme vous les aves toujours
eu pendant que j'etois a Londre. Je ne puis asses vous temoigner com-
bien je suis sensible a toutes vos honnetetes. Les attantions que vous
me marques prouve le veritable caractaire d'un ami. J'en ay toute la
reconnoissance possible, et je m'estimerois tres heureuse, si j'etois
jamais en etat do vous en temoigner une partie. Faute de ce pouvoir,
vous recevres, j'espere, mes remerciements, et seres persuade que quoy
qu' impuissante a vous temoigner mes obligations, elles n'en sont pas
moins fortes, pour cela. Je suis tres persuadee, Monsieur, qu'il n'a pas
tenu a vous que ma maison de Londre et cello de Kengsington ne soyent
deja prete ; mais il n'est que juste que les petits marchent apres les
grands. Je ne croy pas que quoy que le voyage du Roy soit assure \
qu'il puisse etre a Londre avant la mi Jenvier, vieux stile. Ainsi j'es-
pere que tout sera fini. Les uus disent que S. M. va demeurer a
Kengsington, les autres disent a St. James. Si c'est le dernier, je lais-
serai mes chembres commes elles etoient, et la nouvelle chembre
restera Dressing room, jusqu'a ce quelle soit asses seche pour que j'y
puisse coucher sans risque. Pour ce qui est de l'apartement de Mr. de
Hattorf a St. James, j'espere qu'il y renoncera de bon coeur, jusqu'a
ce qu'il en ait un meilleur: cela m'a du moins paru ainsy : et j'en par-
lerai a S. M. qui en fera sans doute ecrire au Due de Bolton. Je vous
prierai en ce cas, mon cher Monsieur, d'en hater l'execution. A 1'egard
des meubles de Kengsington, les plus simples me suffiront : la maison
n'est pas asses bello, pour la parer beaucoup ; et d'ailleurs le moins de
depense et d'embaras que je cause m'est toujours le plus agreable,
II faut diviser la maison de Kengsington en trois petits apartements, cc
qui se poura fort bien avec la nouvelle chembre : dans chaque aparte-
ment un lit, soit pour ma fille, ou pour quelque amie : et autant de
lits pour les domestiques, qu'il y en a dans ma maison de St. James, ce
que Mr. de Grave, page du back stairs de S. M., poura vous informer.
En cas que la nouvelle chembre a Kengsington ne fut pas prete, et
que le Roy y allat loger, je vous demenderois toujours en grace que le
reste fut meuble, et en ordre : mais encore une fois le plus simplement
que my lord Due et vous le jugeres apropos. Pourvu qu'on soit propre-
ment, c'est tout ce qu'on peut exiger. Excuses toutes les peines que je
vous donne, mon cher Monsieur. J'espere de pouvoir bientot vous eu
remercier de bouche, et avoir le plaisir d'embrasser Mrs. Kook, que |e
ii 2
1IC
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cogs MSS. vous prie de saluer de ma part. Mr. de Kielmensegge me charge ausai
de vous faire bien des compliments et amities de la sienne ; et inoy, je
vous prie de croire que Ton ne peut etre plus parfaitement que je la
suis, Monsieur, votre tres humble et tres obeissante servante. Je vous
laisse le maitre de comdamner telles fenetres que vous jugeres apropos
dans ma nouvelle chembre.
(1716.) Peers, Peeresses, Privy Councillors, summoned by Robert
Burrell, James Cooke, Henry Waters, Robert Jenkinson and Adam
Lysney, Grooms of the Great Chamber to His Majesty.
Living in St. James's Square and Leicester Fields.
Lord Belhaven
Lord Conway
Lord Herbert
Lord Leicester
Lord Lansdowne
The Pell Mell and all Westminster.
Duchess of Monmouth
General Earl
Duke of Schomberg
Lord Ferrers (at the Bath)
Lord Allington
Lady Effingham
Duke of Atholl
Lord Carle ton
Duke and Duchess of
Shrewsbury.
Duke and Duchess of Somerset
Mr. Southwell
Lords of the Admiralty
Lord Newburgh
Lady Dowager Portland
Lady Essex
Duke and Duchess of Richmond
Lord Loudoun (in Scotland)
Mr. Boscawen and his Lady
Lord and Lady Stanhope
Lord and Lady Rochester
Lady Dowager Oxford
Lord Hunsdon
Lord Gowran
Lord Fitzwilliam
Lord Cheney
Lord Molesworth.
Lord Scarsdale
Lord Lempster (?)
Lady Plymouth
Lord and Lady Halifax
Lord and Lady Abingdon
Lord and Lady Ashburnham.
Lord and Lady Lincoln
Lord Elford (?)
Lord Derby
Lord Willoughby
Lord Bingley
Archbishop of Canterbury
Bishop of Chester
Hereford
Lincoln
Rochester
Bristol
Gloucester
Peterborough
,, Llandaff.
Living in Covent Garden, Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, Red
Lion Square, Queen Square, Ormoud Street, Lincoln's Inn Fields, and
the Strand.
Lord Orford
Lord Thanet
Duchess Dowager of Rutland.
Loi'd Mountrath
Duke and Duchess of Montague
Bishop of Worcester
Duke and Duchess of Rutland
Lord Northampton
Lord Nottingham
Sir William Olds
Sir William Thomson
Lady Gainsborough
Lord Dundonald
Lord Castleton
Lady Robert Russell
Marquis of Liudsey
Lord Chancellor and
(Cowper).
Master of the Rolls
Lord Cardigan
Sir Edward Northey
Lord Clarendon
Lady Arlington
Bishop of London.
Lady
HISTORICAL, MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 117
Duke of Montrose, Frith St. Lord Mansel, Soho Square Coke M8
Marquis of Annandalc, Swallow St. Lord Orrery, Glass-house St. ~~"
Earl of Sutherland, Marlborough St. Lord Onslow, Marlborough St.
Earl of Bradford, Soho Square Lord Poulett, Albemarle St.
Earl of Bute, Marlborough St. Lord Romney, Soho Square.
Bishop of Sarum, Golden Square Earl of Suffolk, Poland St.
Earl of Carnarvon, Albemarle St. Earl of Salisbury, King Street, St.
Lord Coningsby, Albemarle St. James's
Lord Foley, Soho Square Lord Teynham, Golden Square
Earl of Holderness, New Buildings Lord Warrington, Poland St.
by Trinity Chapel. Lord Windsor, Bond St.
Lord Barborough, Brewer St. Earl of Yarmouth, Marlborough St.
Earl of Jersey, Golden Square Lord Brooke
Earl of Hay, Marlborough St. Lord North and Grey, Poland St.
Kensington and Chelsea.
Lord Chief Justice Parker. Kensing- Bishop of Winchester, Chelsea
ton. Lady Radnor, do.
Lord Maynard, Kensington Lady Ketley, do.
Lady Torrington do. Countess of Lindsey do.
Lady Pierrepont do. Marquis of Meermount (?) Bromp-
Bishop of Bath andWelIs,Kensington ton.
Countess of Warwick do. Countess of Shaftesbury, Gravel
Lord Bartlett (?) do. Pits, in Paddington Parish.
1717, August 29. Treasury Chambers. Chris. Tilson to Viscount
Stanhope.
Mr. Thomas, from the Earl of Oxford, was at the Office this morning
to have acquainted your Lordships, in case you had been sitting, that
his Lordship will have cleared the house at St. James's of all his goods
on Saturday nexr. There is many glasses fitted to panels, locks to
doors, with kitchen grates and other fixed furniture, that his Lordship
will not take away, if so be the person who is to have possession shall '
think (hem useful, and will give such a price as any two indifferent
persons shall value them at. I shall wait your Lordship's commands,
for Mr. Thomas tells me that he, on my Lord Oxford's part, will comply
wilh any commands of 3 r our Lordships that shall be signified by me.
1717, September 5. Whitehall. C. Dalton to [Vice Chamberlain
Coke].
I called yesterday at Somerset House with a design to acquaint you
how the Greencloth do usurp upon my Lord Chamberlain. First in
our diet they give us what meat they please from the King's table,
which arc sometimes little better than garniture, as cold fish, Salamon
Gundy and the like, so that really more than once we base had much
ado to make a dinner. Our table never was upon this foot to eat altera
dozen or fourteen people, nor ever had we any hunting dinners either in
King William's or the late Queen's time, only a dish or two to the Pages
of Honour that waited. Next they have taken away all the candles,
both in the Privy and Presence Chamber : so that one Council night
the Lords run their noses against the hangings. Nay the Duke of
Kent refuses to give us a candle to light the King, which is my Lord
Chamberlain's own candle, saying he goes in always privately, and all
this by way of good husbandry upon us and our under officers, when not
one under him loses the value of a halfpenny. So, Sir, if you please, when
you have an opportunity, to represent this to my Lord Chamberlain,
that he may assert his own right, and not suffer us to be governed by
the Board of Greencloth. The Societies talked of representing this
118 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke 31 S3, jointly to his Grace; but T, being obliged to go into the country, chose
to do it in this way, for which I ask you a hundred pardons.
1717, September 5. Bishopston. Duke of Newcastle to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke],
Dear Sir, The Serjeant at Arms attending the House of Commons
being dead, and Sir John Stanley having informed me that the disposal
of the office is in me, I have given it, if the King is so good as to
approve of it, to my particular friend, the bearer, Mr. Thomas Spence.
Sir J. Stanley has this morning sent me down the instruments for me
to sign ; but I would not think of doing it without having the King's
leave. The favour that I would beg of you [is] that you would (with my
most humble duty to his Majesty) acquaint him with the state of the
case, and beg that he would give me leave to signify his pleasure to the
Attorney General to prepare a Bill for a patent for Mr. Spence, who
(if you will be so good as to let the King know) is one of a very consider-
able family in this country, always most zealous in his Majesty's interest,
and for whose integrity and good behaviour in his office I hold myself
responsible. You will be so kind as to let the King know that it has
always been in the gift of the Lord Chamberlain, but that I would not
in this, or anything else, proceed without knowing his Majesty's
pleasure. I hope you will forgive this trouble, for the bearer is one for
whom I am very much concerned, and your favour to me in his behalf
shall be ever acknowledged. I hope you will let him know the King's
pleasure as soon as you can. I should be glad if you could give a guess
how long the King thinks of staying at Hampton Court, for I am just
come up upon the Downs, and should be glad of a little hunting, before
my return to Hampton Court : but would by no means stay so long, as
not to be able to attend a considerable time upon his Majesty before he
leaves Hampton Court. I wish you would be so good as to make my
compliments to the King, and obtain his leave that I may remain here
some little time longer, and then I will come and relieve you, and stir
no more till his Majesty returns to London. I heartily thank you for
all your favours, and am with great truth, dear Sir, your most faithful
humble servant, Holies Newcastle.
1717, September 7 and 17. William Thomas to the lit. Honble.
the Vice Chamberlain.
I suppose that by this time the j;everal valuations of the goods agreed
to be left in Lord Oxford's house will have been transmitted to you by
the officer of the Works that took down the prices. I took notice to
you and Sir J. Stanley what disadvantage it would be to his Lordship
to have them valued by persons that are to furnish new in case the prices
they set be not agreed to. This has appeared through the whole, but
in nothing more extravagantly than in the things furnished by the
Serjeant Plumber, who values them at about one fourth part of what
Lord Oxford paid him for them. But as the rest of the new goods have
been valued at about 20 per cent, loss, I think that a sufficient abate-
ment in the cisterns and other leaden utensils. I proposed the same to
Sir J. Stanley with respect to the glasses, that are now valued at 1-10/.
and that stood his Lordship in above 225/. But I desire that you and
Sir John Stanley will be pleased finally to settle the matter without
waiting for any further orders from Lord Oxford, who I am satisfied will
approve of whatever you shall determine in it.
1717. The Memorial of Henry Wise and Joseph Carpenter.
Several complaints having been made about the service of herbs and
other things from his Majesty's Gardens into the Kitchen and other
Offices for his Majesty's use. The fact is as followeth
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
119
la Lis late Majesty King William's time, the Gardens contained
about 73 acres, for keeping of which was allowed 4,168/. 19*. per
annum, and 831/. Is. per annum to artificers for garden repairs. The
Kitchen Gardens then were as much as now, and the King had no more
than to serve for (5 plates a day of herbs, salads &c, out of them.
Her late Majesty Queen Anne by several new additions increased the
Gardens from 73 to upwards of 1-10 acres, and then to reduce the
expense, agrees with Mr. Wise to keep the whole for less than 3,000/.
per annum, the Kitchen Gardens being still the same. The produce of
fruits, roots and herbs of all kinds that were of use, were constantly
served in for her Majesty's use.
After his Majesty King George's accession, the contract for keeping
the Gardens was renewed upon the same foot, and the produce of the
Kitchen Gardens has all along been served in to the King, Prince and
Princesses' use, with a great deal more that has been bought by Mr.
Wise, and things raised at Brompton Park. A short abstract of two
years' service for the King and Princes only, (exclusive of all others,
which is not a little) is hero subjoined.
The Kitchen Gardens, all that can be cultivated and cropped with
eatables, we believe does not exceed seven acres of the worst land that
can be for that purpose, being naturally a poor dry burning sand : and
was it seventy instead of seven, 'twould be impossible to equal the
markets (or rather we may say, all the gardens 20 miles round London)
3r to have perhaps anything so early. In such a compass as twenty
miles there is land and places particularly proper for each thing, besides
hundreds of people endeavouring to be the first in the market. Yet it
will appear b} the following account that his Majesty is continually
supplied by his Kitchen Gardens with what they can be made to
produce, notwithstanding the smallness of them, and badness of the
soil.
Coke M8S.
From 28 May 1715 to 28 May 1717 were delivered"!
from the Gardens for the use of his Majesty, the !
Prince, Princess, and young Princesses 4368 baskets j
ol fruit of all sorts at 2s. 6d. per basket, which,
if to be bought, some of them would have cost three
or four times the money : and 373 melons at Is.
each early and late -
Delivered within the aforesaid time for the use of the"
King Prince and Royal Family 1684 Salads.
Above 6000 Cabbage Lettuces. 3541 Cucumbers.
1088 Artichokes. 4668 Celery and Endive. 1351
Bundles of Asparagus with Iladishes, Peas, Beans,
French Beans, Carrots, Savoys, Cauliflowers, Onions,
Sweet Herbs, Borecole and great parcels of Flowers
of all kinds for Basons, Bough Pots and Chimneys
&c. at the common rates, when cheapest of all worth
at least -.----
s. d.
r 546
^250
796
All the Fruit and Kitchen Gardens including Walks'"!
Alleys Dunghill places &c. are about 10 acres at I
20/. per acre per annum keeping for two years comes >400
to 400/. : and each acre of Kitchen Garden costs us
between 30/. and 40/. per annum -J
390
120 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Within our contract for keeping the Gardens is particularly mentioned
that we shall be allowed the charges for transporting the fruits, salads,
herbs Ac. from one Palace to another : which allowance has been
stopped ever since Midsummer 1715, though always paid before. It is
all money out of pocket, and as much our due as any other part of the
Agreement.
1718, January 31. (N. S.) Messina. Thomas Chamberlayne and
Ra. Lee to the Honble. Coke, Esquire, in London.
The Marquis Trevi sent our Consul from Palermo two marble tables,
with a request he'd forward them to your Honour per first English
ship bound home : they are put on board this Paige Galley, Captain
Goldsborougb. These ministers have so much value for his Sicilian
Majesty's customs, they could not be prevailed on lo ship them free.
1718, July 30. Kensington. Lochman to Vice Chamberlain
Coke.
Whereas his Excellency Baron of Bernstorff is wanting fur the use of
his apartments at Hampton Court the following furniture, viz.
Four sets of window curtains and valence, of crimson camlet, or
flowered stuff, the valence 20 inches deep, and 7 feet 6 inches
long, and the curtains to be 2 1 yards long, and one cover over
the dressing table of the same.
Two Presses for clothes.
One ditto for linen, with scolves (shelves ?).
One ditto for the Confectioner, with scolves.
A Teaboard under with a press and above with scolves and with
doors.
One dining table for ten people.
One ditto for six people.
His Majesty has been graciously pleased to order me to acquaint you
thereof, and that his will and pleasure is that the above mentioned fur-
niture may be ordered and finished so soon as possible, and be ready
before his Majesty goes there.
1718, September 10. Paris. Michael Kinkaid to the Rt. Honble.
Thomas Coke, Vice Chamberlain to his Majesty, Hampton Court.
I have been so much taken up with seeing the curiosities of this place
and Versailles that I could not inform myself sufficiently, so as to be
able to give you any tolerable account of the commission you was pleased
to charge me with. So far as I can find as yet, Mariette is the only man
can furnish me with what you want, but he is extravagantly dear. For
instance, the book of the King of France's Medals he will not abate
one farthing of 300 livers, which is near 15/. sterling, though the pre-
face is only in writing. This has given me so bad an impression of
him, that I have employed two booksellers to look for it, and the other
books you desire. Address for me to the care of Mr. William Gordon,
Banquier, in Paris. I shall not stay so long in this place as I intended,
for I prefer a vaudeville on the Pont Nelif to their Opera, and the prints
of Le Brun to his paintings.
1718, October 3. Paris. Michael Kinkaid to the Vice Chamberlain
at Hampton Court.
I wrote to you the 10th past, in which I advised you how we were like
to be treated by Mariette. After having searched all Paris I thought
fit to buy for you the books and prints according to the inclosed account
[absent] which I am very well satisfied we are not wronged in. The first
four articles I have delivered to Mr. Southwell, who will be sooner with
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 121
you than I shall. I have taken the liberty to draw upon you for 40/. I
take journey tomorrow to Bourdeaux, where I intend to ship off some
wine, which they say is admirable good this vintage. If I can serve
you there, I hope you will freely command me. My address will be Mr.
Robert Gordon, Marchant, in Bourdeaux. I have got 108 portraits of
Vandyke, of which above 100 are Vanden Etiden, and some proofs
before the plates were finished, the best that ever I saw.
1718, November 26. Bourdeaux. Michael Kinkaid to Vice
Chamberlain Coke.
It is true I proposed to take back those books and print3 I left with
Mr. Southwell, but had not the good fortune to meet with him. I hope
you have got them by this time. When I was at Paris I left orders
with Mariette for the the Gallerie of the Conseillier at Aix : he, nor no
other printsellers there, had ever seen it. I shall take care to procure
the books you desire, if they are to be got. I left also with Mariette a
note of Poussin's prints.
1719-20, January 10. Windsor Richard Topham to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
I have according to the liberty you was pleased to give me taken one
of the prints of Commodus, of which you have two or three, and in the
room of it put two or three duplicates of mine. I find that you want
very few of the prints of Lasseri, but I could wish that your proofs were
in a better condition. If any come to my hands that are so, I shall be
very glad to add to your collection. The books will be sent tomorrow
by the Windsor caravan, John Yandall, master.
1719-20, February 12. St. Petersburg. Robert Littell to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
I ask a thousand pardons for not having in so long a time done my-
self the honour to acquaint you of my proceedings since I left England
which was September the 25th. From the Hope we sailed for Holland,
where after lying some time we proceeded for the Baltic : but in the
Cattegat meeting with hard gales and contrary winds, it was the latter
end of November before we got to Copenhagen. Taking some time
there to fit our ship, and to get provisions, found it impossible to proceed
any further, but to winter there. After lying here till the 6th of May
we set sail and on the 22nd of do. anchored before Crownslott [Cron-
stadt], where were his Czarish Majesty with the whole Court on board
of the ship which he commanded in person, hauling her out of the har-
bour into the roads there. I had the honour to kiss his hand, who
welcomed me to his country, and that hour gave me the command of a
ship of 04 guns and 470 men, in which I served the last campaign. I
now command a new ship of 72 guns, which hath never been at sea:
but how long I shall keep her, that I cannot tell: for it is not here as
in England, as to the officers having ships by seniority, but as his Im-
perial Majesty thinks they can do him most service. And we are
assured when we serve him well, we shall never go unrewarded, as we
are to the contrary, if we do otherway. For my part I shall always
think I cannot enough to serve so great and good a Prince. I thank
my God I am very well respected both by his Majesty and all the Court.
The Lord High Admiral told me from his Majesty if I took care to
behave myself well, as he did not question but 1 should, then his
Majesty and him would be both my friends. I never lived a more
lazy life, for we are not at sea above three months in the year, and as
our pay is but little, we do little for it. Only the country is something
too cold : but was it in his Majesty's power to move it into 48 or 50
122 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MSS. degrees, it would be the finest country in the world. I like it so well,
I think I am settled here, at least for his Majesty's life, which God
preserve. I have been very unfortunate to lose two very good friends
together, as Doctor Arraskin and Rear Admiral Paddon who both was
buried last December.
1722, April 7. William Fixhall to William Browne at the Honble.
Thomas Coke's, Vice Chamberlain to his Majesty, at St. James.
(Indorsed by the Vice Clvamberlain "Major Fixhall about Notting-
ham Election.")
Yours I received on Wednesday night at Mr. Harding's by a servant
of my Lord How's, and am much surprized to find that anybody could
inform the Vice Chamberlain that I had not obeyed his order to Mr.
Okeover. I give you my word what I wrote was strictly true, for there
was four persons by when I spoke to him, and he then readily complied,
and ordered me to call for a letter in the morning. But his steward
coming from Wamsall that night, in the morning he had altered his
mind as to Lord How, but as to Sir Robert [Sutton] he continued his
promise. I wrote the next post to Mr. Harding to acquaint the Vice
Chamberlain with it. All the world knows Mr. Okeover to be a
positive unpersuasable man. When you have told this to the Vice
Chamberlain, I beg you'll favour me with a line, for if I should suffer in
his esteem in this affair, I should be much concerned. Mr. Pltzherbert
and I were together this morning. Mr. Harding sets out this day for
London.
1722, October 24. Rome. W. Parker to the Rt. Honble. Thomas
Coke, Vice Chamberlain, at St. James, London.
I humbly take the boldness to give you an account of my voyage. I
had a three months passage by sea. I stayed a week at Leghorn : from
thence to Florence where I met with much satisfaction by Mr. Coke's
letters to Signor Magnolfi and Signor Bianchi, who received me very
kindly, and shewed me the Grand Duke's Palace and Gallery, and pro-
mised me I should copy what I pleased. I have be; n to see several
Masters, which are very fine. Mr. Kent gave me a letter to Ca. Lute,
who received me very kindly, and shewed me all his drawings, and pro-
mised to serve me in all that lay in his power. I shall begin a Boy's
Head of his drawing this week. I have met with much civility from
Mr. Kent's friends, especially from Mr. Hay, who sets out for England
in three or four days time. I am justly compelled to attribute all to
your goodness and compassion : for which I hope time may enable me
to do something worthy of your notice : graced with your acceptance, it
will raise it in \alue in mine and the world's esteem. Wherefore be-
seeching your Honour to have a favourable opinion of my mind to serve
you in everything I humbly subscribe myself your dutiful and obliged
servant. Sir, this is my direction Signor Guglielmo Parker, Inglese
Pittore, Roma.
1724, August 12. Hatfield. Revd. Charles Cecil to [Vice Chamber-
lain Coke].
The occasion of the trouble I now give you is to inform you of the
vacancy of a Prebendary in the Church of Westminster by the death of
Dr. Linford ; which I hope will not give you any suspicion that I've
the least doubt of your readiness to serve me : but knowing things of
this nature are what all of my profession are seeking after, was appx*e-
hensive it might be disposed of before it came to your knowledge. J
hope therefore you will be so kind as to interest yourself in obtaining
this which will perfectly complete the happiness of your most obliged
servant.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 123
1724, October 7. Paris. Eevd. Charles Cecil to Vice Chamberlain Cokb MSS.
Coke.
I take the liberty to trouble you with this, being persuaded that the
news of our safe arrival at Paris would not be unacceptable to you.
We got hither about 4 o'clock yesterday not without having encountered
some danger, and many little difficulties, which prevented our being here
two days before. We set out from London on Saturday about noon,
and reached Rochester the same night : the next we got to Canterbury,
j.nd by noon the next day to Dover, where we met with great civility
from Mr. Lovel, Master of the King's Pacquet Boats, and embarked
thence the day following on board one of his boats. We had a very
fair wind and so large that we could have got into the harbour at
Calais in two hours and a half, had there been water sufficient for
our vessel to have gone in, and the sea was so hi^h that no boat durst
venture out to carry us ashore : which obliged us to ply to and fro for
two hours more, during which time my sister and Mr. Bethel were
extremely sick. By that time the master of our vessel apprehended
there might be water enough for us to get into the harbour, which had
liked to have proved a fatal mistake, for upon our entrance into the mouth
of the harbour we struck three times, and it was the general opinion
we had been inevitably lost, if the vessel had not been quite new. At
Calais we met with the uoual treatment of seaport towns, and there we
purchased a Berlin which, by being new fitted up and painted for sale,
concealed many infirmities we could not at that time find out, which
throughout the remaining part of our journey has put us to much charge
in repairs, and has been the means of preventing our making that ex-
pedition we should otherwise have done. My cousin Corbet has been so
well during our journey that after having travelled near sixty miles in
one day she was not the least fatigued, and I believed would have held
out travelling at the same rate had our machine been as able. We are
now a L'Hotel d'Antrague, Rue de Conde, where I shall be proud of
receiving ycur commands.
1724, November 11. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt.
Honble. Thomas Coke.
I am very sorry you met with so much difficulty to get my waiting
supplied, and am particularly concerned that the trouble you was at
was caused by the misfortune which happened to Dr. Lovel. I shall
be very ready to acknowledge the obligation upon any occasion to Dr.
Lovel as well as Dr. Ibbot, and the rest who have been so kind as to
officiate for me. I have sent by the bearer of this the map of the Canal
Royal, with the aqueducts and sluices. I am very much afraid we
shall not be able to get from hence this winter, for my cousin is now
so very ill that it will be impossible for her to move, though like others
in her distemper, she fancies herself immortal, and talks of taking a
journey of one hundred leagues, when she is not able to stir out of her
chair. My sister takes much pams with her French.
1724, December 12. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt.
Ilble. Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
. . . If you have occasion for any French books, I don't doubt
but, with the assistance of Mr. Bethel, who is a great critic that way,
tv> be able to {ret them here : though indeed their shops here are the
worst furnished with books in any language besides their own I ever
met with. 1 have bought some few books here in order to obtain their
language, and have so far succeeded in my endeavours, as to be able
to read any of their authors in prose with almost the same facility I can
124 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION".
Coke MSS. English. ... If I shall be so happy as to receive a summons to return
to England to take possession of any benefice you will be so good to
get for me, I should not propose to remain there auy longer than
would be absolutely necessary to go through the forms, but return
hither till my being here should answer the purposes of my first
coming abroad : which were to get out of debt, and acquire the
language of this country, both which ends I am in hopes will be
obtained when the season will permit us to get further into the country,
where we may live much cheaper, and meet with fewer English. Mr.
Walpole did me the honour to invite me to dinner the other day ; who
has been in so bad a state of health since his being here that I believe
few of his acquaintance would readily know him. . . .
1724, December, 15. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to the lit. Hole.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
. . . My brother sent you a letter and a map at the same time
which I believe is lost, for we have not heard anything of the messenger
since. I suppose you have expected long ago a letter from me in French,
but I hope you are not very impatient, for I fear 1 shall be obliged to
put it off for some time longer. I have now got me a master, and
intend to grow very good. My brother has been much better than I :
he can read French with as much ease as English, and I believe will
be able to speak it very soon. He is gone today to see the ceremony
of the burial of the King of Spain : it is I hear to be very magnificent.
I am so discreet as to get the better of my curiosity and stay at home
to preserve my legs and arms. I expect my brother will break down
a scaffold and put to death many of the French : and if 1 destroy any
of them it must be the same way, for I have not yet been able to
touch the heart of a Marquis. But I shall not quite despair, till I have
tried my fortune in a white curled tower stuck with flowers, which is
worn here with great success. 1 desire my humble service to Miss
Coke. My cousin Corbet is much better.
1724-5, January 11. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to Vice Cham-
berlain Coke.
So much of my time is spent in nursing at present that I
have but little for anything else. My brother has been confined with
the gout ten days. . . My cousin is better, and intends in the spring
to go to Naples, it being the opinion of the doctors that she can't
recover without it. I don't intend to carry my compliment so far as to
wait on her there, it being a journey that will by no means suit with
my finances. Nor does living in Paris agree with me much better,
every thing being vastly dearer than in England. Mr. Bethel intends
to continue his post of knight errant, and attend on my cousin to
Naples, but my brother lives in hopes of a call another way. We hear
at Paris that the King goes this year to Hanover, and his Chaplain
wishes much to go with him. I have just heard a piece of news that
I think worthy of relating that this morning one of the French King's
GeDtlemen of the Bedchamber was beheaded for stealing the gold
fringe from the King's chairs. I hear if he had not been a man of
quality, he would only have heen hanged. The news you sept me I
would have sent you long before now. only I was afraid you would have
thought I did it only to give myself an air of having an English lover,
because I could not get a French one. I assure you as to when the
wedding will be, or when the clothes was bought is unknown to me.
1724-5. January 18. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt.
Hble. Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION'. 125
The pain I have of late suffered by the gout has been so violent that Cokb MSS.
I have been entirely disabled from -writing : but being at present almost
free from pain I lay hold of this opportunity to acknowledge the favour
of your last, and likewise to let you into the particulars of an affair, as
far as I am able, which I find you are not an entire stranger to : and
being an affair on which my sister's future happiness so much depends,
I am very glad to hear it meets with your approbation. Mr. Brown
has made his addresses to my sister from her first arrival here, and by
what I can judge of the matter, she does not seem to disapprove of him ;
at the same time I believe she is not as yet vastly smitten, and I am
persuaded will not advance so far in the affair as not to have it in her
power to make an honourable retreat, if there should arise any circum-
stances that would make it necessary for her to do so. To me I must
own he appears to be a person noways to be excepted against ; and he
has a fortune more than sufficient to make their lives very agreeable, if all
other circumstances be answerable to that. He is very desirous to have
an opportunity to make appear to whomsoever she will direct him that
he has more than forty thousand pounds in the funds in England,
besides some effects of considerable value in Italy, and has offered to
consent to any proposals of settlement &c. she will require. But for
her conduct in this affair she depends entirely upon you, not doubting
but that you will advise her in a matter of this consequence, having
received so many instances of your inclination and readiness to con-
tribute to her happiness.
1721-5, January 26. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to the Rt. Hble.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
. . . My brother is still confined to his chamber with the
gout : he intends as soon as he can get out of it to leave us and go to
Dijon, in order to improve himself in French, and to live at less ex-
pense than he does here. He is very melancholy at a piece of news
sent him, which was that Lady Holderness said that Dr. Locker is to go
as Chaplain with the King. If it is not so pray comfort him with '
the news, for he is very unhappy about it at present. . . . This
scrawl is excuseable at present being in haste to dress for a ball
which Sir Thomas Prendergrase gives to the English. He is the very
finest of men ; you will soon have him in London, and he will bring
with him a coat for the next birthday that will all coats outshine.
1 724-,", February 13. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to the Rt. Hlbe.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
... In your letter of January 2o you chide me for not mentioning
the affair you are so kind as to interest yourself in. My leason for
not doing so was my brother told me he had the post before : so I
hope you will not be angry with me. I can have no reason to give, and
no person can show a greater confidence in another than by trusting
them with their misfortunes or their follies. I shall therefore take this
opportunity of doing it, and inform you that my fortune is not so
well as you imagine, having been obliged to lessen it by paying
part of what my uncle Cecil left me to persons 1 had long been
indebted to. Though it is not possible for you to conceive half the
hardships I suffered from the unkindness of my mother, yet you can't
be so much a stranger to her want of afection and kindness for me, but
that you may easily believe what I am telling you. When she put me
to my allowance it was at a time when 1 wanted as thorough a clothing
as when I came into the world, so that more than a year's allowance
went at my first setting out, which put me so much behind hand that
126 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke mss. j con tinued to add to the debt till my mother died ; and I believe you
may remember it was a year after before my affairs was put in a method :
and in all that time I had no money but what I was obliged to you for.
When I received my uncle's legacy, I paid all I owed which was near
600/. I hope you will not entirely attribute to my folly the lessening
of my fortune. This Paris journey has also helped me that way, for
I am indebted to my cousin Corbet 50/., which I want to pay her,
and I shall want some money upon another account soon. So that I beg
the favour of you to inform me if there is any method of selling my
stock without ray being present.
1724-5, February 13. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt.
Hble. Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
Since my last Mr. Brown has taken an opportunity of acquainting
me with what he proposes by way of settlement on my sister.
.... His fortune being all in the funds he proposes to add 3,000/. to
her fortune, to be put into the hands of trustees for her, if she survives
him, and to be entirely at her disposal : but seems unwilling to tie
any other part of his money by way of security for the children they
may have, or any certain sum commonly styled pinmouey. Nor does
she seem inclinable to demand any. ... I cannot indeed help
observing that his conduct in this affair does not entirely correspond
with his former professions.
1724-5, February 23. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to the Rt.
Hble. Thomas Coke, St. James's House, London.
My brother wrote you a letter with an account of the settlement
Mr. Brown proposes to make. I should be glad to know your
opinion of it, and beg the favour of you that in a letter to Mr. Brown
you will make any objections you shall think proper. I have told him
my fortune is 4 5 000/. The money my uncle left me bought 1,700/.
South Sea Stock. I have informed Mr. Brown that 1,000/. of my
fortune I owe to your goodness and generosity, and that in this or
any affair of consequence I should always consult you, not only as a
relation but as my best and kindest friend.
1724-5, March 6. N.S. St. Cloud. Revd. Charles- Cecil to the
Rt. Hble. Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
I have been for some time in the country in the hopes of regaining
the strength I have lost by my late illness. Mr. Mariette has packed
up your prints, and they will be sent forward by Mr. Alexandre, who
assures me they shall be taken great care of. Living at Paris so long
has almost broke all my measures : but I am in hopes I shall speedily
retrieve them, by accompanying my sister and brother, as I believe
Mr. Brown will soon be, to Italy all obstacles at present being
removed, he having very readily accepted of the proposals you made, and
will very soon send directions to proper persons in London to prepare
writings agreeable thereunto, in order to be laid before you for your
approbation. As for pinmoney my sister would not permit me to
make any demand, having (as I believe) very good reasons for it. The
real satisfaction I received from the account you sent me of the success
of your meeting with the Bishop of London affected me in a more
sensible manner than I am capable of expressing : I will assure his
Lordship I shall make it my chief study to merit for the future the
opinion he has conceived of me. Please to address as usual being but
two leagues from Paris.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 127
1724-5, March 16. N.S. Paris. Margaret Cecil to the lit. Hble. Coo'MSB.
Thomas Coke, at St. James's House, London.
The concern I have been in for the loss of my cousin, and a fever I
Tiave had since, I hope will plead my excuse for not returning my thanks
sooner for your last very kind and obliging letter of 11th of February.
. . . The pleasure 1 should have in seeing and conversing with such a
friend as you is alone sufficient to make any place in which you are
preferable to any other: and will be the only reason to prevent my
being very much pleased with a journey to Italy, having a great curiosity
to see a place I have heard and read so much of. Mr. Brown has
money in private hands in Venice, that he says would be difficult to get
without his being there ... I have sent you a copy of a writing that
he has had drawn here, which he thinks will be a sufficient security to
me till a settlement can be made. As for myself I think I should run
no hazards, if I had no settlement, for was Mr. Brown to die, the third
of his fortune which would then be mine would be much more than 1
shall have otherways. And he is in no danger of losing the money he
has got, having left off trade entirely this nine years . . . An acquaint-
ance of mine in London who has known him twenty years, gives him a
perfect good character. If you are acquainted with Colonel Gardener,
he can inform you. I believe it will be more satisfaction to you to hear
any good of him from a person unconcerned than from me, because love
is blind. But I give you my word, though I have a very good opinion
of him, I am not so smitten as not to have my ear open. He is very
desirous of the honour of being known to you, and said he intended to
take the liberty of writing to you, and desired me to excuse it to you.
1724-5, March 16. N.S. Paris. Robert Brown to the Rt. Hble.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
The pleasure I hope to have at my return to England in your friend-
ship and acquaintance will be very great, and I shall not think it a small
one that of writing to you in the meantime, if you are so good as to l
indulge me therein, by allowing me some opportunities here, or in the
country where I am going, of serving you. From the conversation I
have had with Mrs. Cecil, I have learned to know your worth and your
good qualities, as well as if I had passed my whole life with you. She
never seems more pleased than in owning your goodness to her, and the
many obligations she has to you. I would be very glad to have you
imagine from thence how desirous I am of the honour of being well
thought of by you, and of deserving the same all I can. I believe I
cannot do it in any way more agreeable to you and so easy to myself.
as that of being a good husband to Mrs. Cecil, who I shall always think
deserves of me much more than will ever be in my power. . . .
1724-5, March 15. O.S. St. James's. Vice Chamberlain Coke to
Mr. Robert Brown. Paris. (Draft.)
I received the favour of yours from Paris, for which I am very much
obliged to you, and shall embrace with a great deal of pleasure the
obliging offers of your friendship. What my sister Cecil has said of
me is more than anything I have done can deserve : but will always by
my endeavours to serve her, try to merit her good word. I wish you
both extremely happy in your undertaking, and a safe return into
England, which I am sorry to hear is not likely to be next spring. But
no distance I hope will prevent me hearing from you, and receiving your
commands, with which if you will please to favour me, you will give
me an opportunity of showing you the sincerity of my being, Sir, your
most faithful humble servant.
128 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
CokbMSS. 1724-5, March 23. N.S. Paris. Rev. Charles Cecil to the Rt.
Hble. Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
... I have received a paper from Mr. Brown, which he calls Articles
of Agreement between my sister and him, drawn up as I suppose by
himself . . . My sister tells me she will send you a copy of them,
which I believe you will find very defective in many particulars. How-
ever I find she is determined to marry him before I believe you can
send any answer, having appointed Easter Sunday for the day of mar-
riage according to this style .... They propose to set out from hence
very soon after their marriage for Italy, and have been very pressing with
me to accompany them thither, where they design to reside till the next
spring. For which reason I must beg the favour of you, if you have
any opportunity of seeing the Bishop of Lincoln, who is my diocesan,
to desire his permission to be abroad, without which I may incur a very
severe penalty. I hope the Bishop of London is acquainted with my
being abroad, or he will take it very ill, that I have not been to wait
on him to acknowledge his kind intentions to assist in obtaining a
prebendary for me. I hope by this time you have received the prints
you ordered to be sent.
1725, April 10. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt. Hble.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
I received the favour of yours by which I was very glad to find that
the Articles my sister sent you would be binding, for they were signed
and the marriage consummated on Easter Monday. My brother Brown
and sister propose to set out from hence on their journey to Italy in
very few days, and I shall accompany them, relying upon your interest
to obtain leave for me of his Majesty and the Bishop of Lincoln to be
absent, till I shall be so happy as to receive a summons to return home
by means of your kind soliciting in my favour. I this day saw the
prints you writ for packed up. ... I hope I shall have the pleasure
of being employed in some commission in Italy, where curiosities
abound.
1725, April 13. N.S. Paris. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt. Hble.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
Since my last I have been informed where you may find the prints
of the Medals in the King's Cabinet, which you writ for to Mr. Marriette,
who has not been able to procure them for you. They were lately
bought here by a person who makes it his business to buy things of
that nature. He has sent a book with all those Medals, and several
others which contain the prints of all the King's Pictures and Statues
to his partner in London, James Woodman, Bookseller, in Russell St.
Covent Garden. Tomorrow or next day at farthest we shall set forwards
on our journey to Venice.
1725, June t>. Venice. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt. Hble. Thomas
Coke at St. James's House, London.
I had not the pleasure of receiving yours of the 15th of April till
my arrival at Paluello the 27th of last month, where my brother Brown
has a country house, the pleasantest situated I ever saw upon the river
Brenta, 8 miles from Padua and 20 from Venice. Yesterday we came
to Venice by water, which appeared to us a much more agreeable way
of travelling than in a chaise voiturine, of which we were very heartily
tired. . . . Since her arrival here my sister has had two houses
to put in order, and much company continually coming in, so that she
has hardly had time to rest herself from her journey. I am much
obliged to you for the further leave you have obtained for me to be
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 129
absent, but shall be much more glad to receive a summons to return Cokh Mi 8.
though I must confess if my affairs did not require redress, I should
be very much pleased to stay in this country some years. I hope you
received my letters from Lyons and Turin, since which we met with
no accident, but frequent danger of overturning by the badness of the
roads, occasioned by continual rains. What is a very agreeable surprise
to me is that it is very little hotter here than in England. . . .
Letters sent by the common post directed to Venice seldom come safe.
Please to direct for me at the British Consul's, Venice, inclosing it to
Messrg. Peter Mentink and Sons Merchants at Amsterdam.
1725, August 3. N.S. Venice. Mrs. Margaret Browu to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
. . . I wish I could make amends for my long silence by
sending you any news or tittle-tattle that would divert you ; but I am
as yet so much a stranger that I know nothing of this place, but that
it is vastly hot. ... I have read in the News such an account of
the finery of your new Order of Knights, [the Bath] that I don't
expect to be made amends for the loss of that sight by any of the shows
of Venice : though I am promised to be mightily entertained with the
gaiety of the Saints. My brother gets the start of me quite in Italian,
as he did in the French, by his great application : he understands every-
thing that is said, and can talk a good deal. ... I suppose you
know that you are to have opera in great perfection next winter, and to
our loss, for Mr. Sweng has agreed with the Faustina to go to England.
1725, October 12. Venice. Mrs. Margaret Brown to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
. . . I was very glad to find by your letter that you have been so
well this summer as to be able to take so long a ramble, and hope from
the exercise of it you have laid up a stock of health for the winter.
Mr. Hanbury was here but a few days after I came to Venice, so that
I saw him but once. If I had known he was a friend of yours, we
would have come sooner from a place we was in in the country, to have
waited on him here and contributed all we could to make Venice
agreeable to him. Mr. Chambers I hear is ill of the small-pox at Parma.
The first day I have my best looks on I will obey your
commands in sitting for my picture, and will seud it yon, as soon as it is
done. . . . I must take this opportunity to remind you of a promise
which when performed will give me so much pleasure. . . . I hope
you will sit for your picture at Richardson's. I am very glad to hear
George has quite recovered the illness in his eves, and that Pud is well
[Mr. Coke's son and daughter Charlotte]. I des're my compliments to
them and to Miss Coke.
1725, October 30. N.S. Parma. William Chamber to [Vice-
Chamberlain Coke].
(iive me leave to return you my most humble thanks for your
obliging recommendation of me to Mr. Robert Brown of Venice, of which
my route will not permit me to profit. He let me know by a gentle-
man that passed this way that you had mentioned me to him, and made
me offers of his service if I came to Venice. Had 1 not fallen ill of the
small pox here, before this time I should have been in France, though
really I leave Italy after two years stay in it. with regret. ... Of
-nil the arts here cultivated Painting has been my particular delight.
I have bought some pictures here at Parma, among which by accident
I have got a fine Bassan, that did not cost me fifty shillings. I have
several others that want baptizing, which when tiny arrive at Han-
U 68973. I
130 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. worth, [Middleeex] I beg you would give your judgment of what authors
- they are of : and if they are so happy as to meet with your approbation^
I shall be entirely contented with my purchases.
1725, December 10. Gravesend. W. Parker to Vice Chamberlain
Coke.
I have sent you by the bearer a picture which I received this day
from my son at Rome. He says in his letter, it's the picture of Angelica
a Dora [Adora ?]. And that the last I sent you is the history of [the
daughter of?] Peneus or Ladon, who, flying from the violence of Apollo
was turned into a baytree. Both which 1 hope will prove worth your
acceptance.
1725, December 28. Venice. Revd. Charles Cecil to the Rt. Hble.
Thomas Coke at St. James's House, London.
My sister has furnished me with a very agreeable occasion of wishing
you joy of a new relation being safely delivered of a daughter on
Christmas day : of which she had so little notice that she was very late
the night before at St. Mark's to see the ceremony of that place, and
about four in the morning brought to bed. ... I see no probability
of their returning to England some years : and by the preparation my
brother Brown has made for a large family here confirms me in that
belief. He has lately taken a very large house, which he has furnished
in a manner not very agreeable to one who proposes soon to leave it.
Besides so long a journey with a little family cannot but be attended
with too great difficulties to be attempted. However I live in great
hopes of a call home by your assistance before that time, and to be in a
capacity to return hither. In the meantime I hope you will be so good
as to get my leave to stay abroad continued of his Majesty and the
Bishop of Lincoln, my Diocesan, and to get my waiting at Court sup-
plied. ... I had the pleasure to hear by my sister that you had
health sufficient to undertake a Derbyshire journey.
1726, April 12. N.S. Venice. Mrs. Margaret Brown to [Vice
Chamberlain Coke].
. . . The news that my brother's letter brought you I believe
surprised you a little : and the occasion was a surprise to us, being
long before I expected it. My curiosity carried me to the top of St.
Mark's Church on Christmas Eve to see the ceremony there, and the
many stairs I went up was not very suitable to a gentlewoman in my
then sad circumstances : so that I was taken ill as soon as I came home.
But notwithstanding I introduced your goddaughter into company a
little before it was proper, she behaves herself very well, and has a
great deal of wit, and I believe will make a very good wife ; so pray
make my compliments to my nephew, and tell him I desire him not to
settle his affections upon a lady till he has first seen my daughter.
. . . I must ask pardon for taking the liberty of naming you for
her god-father before I had your leave. ... I must put you in
mind of your last letter that gave me the hopes of having a picture
of you soon : the sight of it will be such a pleasure to me that I can't
help being very impatient for it. . . . You will by the next ship
that goes from hence have the face of your humble servant done by
Rosalba, who assures me she ne rer painted a picture better, and as it
was for so good a friend, I behaved myself very patiently in sitting,
and she commended me so much for it, that she acknowledged, if it was
not like, it would be entirely her fault. There has been a great many
of our country people here this Carnival : but at present there is none
left. Wo have also lost my brother for a time : he is gone to see
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 131
Rome and Naples, but intends to be back at the Ascension, which I Ooxe mss.
am told is one of the finest sights of Venice.
1726, May 18. Rathkeel. Viscount Southwell to [his father in
law] Vice Chamberlain Coke.
I had this day an account of the Duke of Newcastle's performing
his promise to you, in making me one of his Majesty's Privy Council
here. I return you my most humble thanks for it, and have done the
same by this night's post both to his Grace and my Lord Lieutenant.
I have been in this country these two months past. My wife and little
ones are all well. She joins me in grateful acknowledgments for your
many favours to us, and I hope you will be assured I shall always have
a thorough sense of them.
1726, October 4. Venice. Revd. Charles Cecil to Vice Chamberlain
Coke.
. . . There has been a very extraordinary piece of antiquity
found by accident under ground last winter near Rome, which is very
much esteemed by the virtuosi there it being the most perfect in its kind
that has been discovered for many ages past. It is the Sepulchre of
Livia, wife of Augustus, in which were found the urns that contained the
ashes of her and all her domestics, with several very curious basso-
rilievos and inscriptions, denoting the several offices each bore in her
service, among which there are several that the antiquarians have never
before had any knowledge of. I happened to be at Rome very soon after
the discovery of it, and hoping it might be acceptable to you, I have pro-
cured a draught of it from a person the most esteemed in that way in
Italy : and have since been favoured by my Lord Hope with all the
inscriptions ; which, when I was there, were not to be had, the persons
that found it having broken most of the urns and marble, in expectation
to find medals, or other treasure, and were in too much haste to use a
gentler method to open them, for fear of having it discovered to the
Camera Apostolica, which claims a right to all things of this kind that
are found within the State : by which means several valuable pieces of
antiquity are destroyed in this barbarous manner. I will take the first
opportunity of sending it to you, being too large to send by the post,
consisting of several sheets. It is said here, it will soon be printed :
but as this is the original from whence it will be printed, I judge this
might be preferable. I am informed the King goes to Hanover this
spring. I know I need say no more, and hope you'll not think my
having said so much proceeds from the least diffidence I can possibly
have of your inclination to contribute to my going with him. ... I
believe within a few months our family is likely to be increased.
[This letter is endorsed by Mr. John Coke " The drawings
received since Mr. Vice Chamberlain died."]
I 2
132 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
COXBMM. ADDENDA.
1602, October 20. Cambridge. George Coke to John Coke.
Brother,
For Mr. Verny's disputation, I was not an ear witness, being all day
long with our Master in our office accounts, and absolutely denied by
him to go. Divers of good judgment both at home and abroad, whom I
have talked withal, do give him very extraordinary commendations : his
oration, his answers, very judicious, very acute, and his tongue very
ready. All men say he had wrong in nothing, but in a bad replyer,
whose arguments he did cut so short, with ready and philosophical dis-
tinctions, that he utterly confounded him ; and yet they that knew the
replyer say much for his commendation and that he was well esteemed
of. His first gest was, as I have heard, u voluntas non cogitur."
For our friends in Derbyshire, I left them all in good health, brother
and sister Coke, Fulwood, Buss/e, all very glad of my company, and
very kind unto me. Sister Bussye, I hope by this God hath delivered
her safely from her burden, which I think is the fourth since her
marriage. She hath an honest, kind husband : she herself lives very
contentedly in the fear of God and the love and favour of all his and her
own friends. Sister Coke I have found very kind, and living in true
hearty affections to us all : we never forgot to remember you in our
merryments, and many times in serious talk I do often wish that things
might go better with her, but in truth she beareth them well and wisely,
and is contented with all she cannot mend. Brother Francis, I have
found him more kind than ordinary for outward carnage only : but
nothing more liberal, though he grow rich, yet he is very hard, and
having plenty of all things in great abundance, yet could he be contented
to send me away without my annuity, witli his old answer, I will send it
by the next messenger. In all things else very kind and merry were
we, so continued and so parted ; so that I thought my time very well
bestowed amongst them, but especially with my kindest sister Coke,
with whom I was ever merry. Our Uncle Gilbert is dead, and my
Annt lives at Lockow. with her two younger sods and daughter :
Thomas with his wife in Leicestershire groweth very rich. So cousin
Daners [Danvers]. Other news we had none : only Formarke's young
daughter and heir is married to one Mr. Burdett, of Warwickshire, as
I think. Mr. Harpur of Swarkaston is restored to his justiceship, since
my Lord of Shrewsbury was of the Council. For Aristotle, I cannot find
any such in the town, Greek and Latin of Stevens print as you writ for.
I am chosen Catechiser for this year, which every Sunday I am to
perform; in the discharge of which duty I intend to proceed according
to my former course of study in the general heads of divinity, until I
have made a perfect body. I am also rhetoric lecturer, which I must
read twice every week, which will be so more pains to me. I pray you
for your notes Pro Archia, if you have them, to help me. I am also
senior Thesaurarius, to dispose of all charge and accounts of the College.
Thus I am pressed this year with very many businesses, which all I
willingly undergo with good courage, hoping for a harvest. Messe quis
fruitur, qui non prius tulit sementis onera ? Summe Deus, adsis mihi,
ut Tuo consilio imposita mihi onera Tua ope perferam : tuque frater
adsis mihi precibus tuis.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 133
1607, November 18. Cambridge. George Coke to John Coke at Coke MSS.
Sir Foulke Grevill's house at Tottenham High Cross.
Brother, J have received jour letter, and am most willing, with thanks
both to God and those good means which he hath stirred up to further
this bles&ing, to entertain your good motion: and will be ready accord-
ing to his holy assistance at all times (if it be his good will that it may
succeed) to the uttermost of my small gifts to discharge the same in my
own person : and will endeavour so to approve your good testimony of
me as that it may appear you have not been much mistaken. And I
will also be ready, whensoever the patron shall require, to offer my
service according to his desire. Only about this time, if it be possible
I would desire some forbearance by reason of a divinity act, which
within this fortnight I am to perform in the Schools : it comes unex-
pected upon me, sooner than I looked for, by reason of the strictness of
the Vice-Chancellor of late, which doth urge everyone to keep his due
course I have written to both Sir Edmond and Mr. Henry Lucy
according to your direction. I would desire you before your departure
to leave certain direction what course I shall follow if in your absence
the parsonage i'all void. I was determined to go into Derbyshire this
Christmas about gathering up of some money which there is owing me
for some of my [pupils?] as also of brother Francis, with whom I much
desire to make even reckoning. The reason that makes me desirous to
gather up this money is an office of a bursarship which now this two
years hath been laid upon me in which I am straitened by these ex-
travagant debts. I will send cousin Streethay present word, by whose
means I doubt not but to get knowledge of the old man's health, as God
shall determine of him.
1608, April. From his Chamber in Pembroke College, Cambridge.
George Coke to John Coke at Sir Foulke Grevill his house in the
Augustine Fryers.
Good brother, What trouble I have had by Bygrave, and what by
sickness, I must let you understand. For Bygrave I have learned ray
lesson now the second time by a presentation from the King, and a
second institution and induction. I used no friends but my purse and
labours, only I acquainted both Sir F. Grevill and Sir Edmond Lucy,
who offered me all means in their power, if I had found difficulty. I
had certain notice of a lapse, by Dr. Sterne his being instituted into
Stevenadge after he had Bygrave, and not being qualified, as also of not
being minister of a year after he was inducted into Bygrave. After I
had gone through both these businesses, with much charge and no less
trouble both of body and mind, it pleased God to visit me with an ague,
which hath held me now five time3 by course of every other day : which
did a little more daunt me than all the other. But God had mercy
upon me, and hath delivered me also from this Philistine, that I may
stay yet a while to serve him at Bygrave, and learn by his correction to
amend. What honourable favour I have found at Sir F. Grevill, and
especially at Sir Edmond Lucy, in the most worthy manner befitting
such personages, I pray you take notice from me in the most ample
manner yourself can conceive. What also from my worthy patron, Sir.
Warren and his virtuous and worthy bedfellow, both before and since
my coming to Bygrave. I pray you in my behalf return all possible
thanks. In truth in them and their favour I esteem not the least part
of this great blessing, which God hath bestowed upon me. Also I pray
you remember for me Mr. Henry Lucy, in whose favour and kindness,
and (as himself pleaseth to term and use it) familiarity I am much com-
forted and encouraged : aud I beseech you pray to God for me, that for
134 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cokb MSS. these blessings I may be thankful. When I hear of your coming to
London, if God enable me, I will come see you, for I desire to speak
with you. Brother Francis hath sent up his sons to me, whom I have
placed some in S. Johns, and some in our own College.
1623, October 30. Bygrave. George Coke to John Coke.
Good brother, I have been at Cambridge when my first business was
to break fare with Dr. Be ale, who hath all this while offered all kindness
for the receiving of your children into that College (Pembroke) and next
T went to Dr. Richardson, whom I found willing and glad to show any
kindness in them. We have agreed with Mr. Green to be their tutor,
who at the Doctor's entreaty is content to take them into his tuition, so
dainty are tutors now a days in Cambridge, that they will be entreated
or they will take no more. Chambers also are as hard to be gotten in
that College, as in Pembroke Hall ; so that if the Master had not made
shift for one over himself, we might have been destitute ; only for
a time was I compelled to be contented with that, for I find that it will
be an occasion to them to have too much commei'ce with the Master's
men, of which also Mr. Green himself gave me a hint. * For Mr.
Green, I find nothing but exceeding well, a man commended to be both
learned and industrious, and of a civil and honest conversation. And
this I hear of him by Dr. Beale especially, as also by Mr. Whincop
of that College. For gowns you must provide so many yards of broad
cloth of violet colour dyed in grain as will make them wide sleeved
gowns ; and a yard of serge black to line the sleeves at least half way
on the fore part: no other lining at all for them. And I think you may
do very well to buy them other gowns also of cloth, of any colour, for
study gowns : the cloth cannot be too course, for they must never wear
them but in their studies, and those gowns must also be lined with
anything, only for warmth, not faced nor caped with velvet, but as plain
and homely as you will, so they be warm. The time when you must
send them is appointed to be the 10th day of November. *
(1625, August 4.) Sir John Coke to Fulke Grevyl, Lord Brooke.
Bight Honourable, No servant of yours can be more sorry for your
indisposition than I am, nor more glad that by your good usage you find
some contentment. And I am assured that by your absence from hence
you can sustain no loss : for I hear not of any meeting with the States,
nor of any business of importance to give you entertainment to your
mind. In Parliament, before my coming, there was much exception
taken against a pardon granted to a Jesuit at Exeter, wherein the
Lord Conway and the Lord Keeper were taxed ; and the King himself
escaped not exception, for granting it the next day after he had engaged
his word to the House for their suppression. No less earnestness hath
been used against Dr. Onian, who being under the censure of the House
yet pressed to preach before them at the Fast, which they would not
permit : and against Dr. Mountague, whose absence is excused only by
his sickness. And this is all I know of the proceedings in the House,
whither I came but on Tuesday, and that night had my instructions
to deliver the present state of affairs to the Nether House : which
on Wednesday night was changed and left doubtful whether the Lcrd
Conway or I should relate it to both Houses in the presence of the
King. And this morning, even in the Hall where we met, the counsel
varied again, and the Lord Conway was required to say something, and
I to present the rest : so as a greater charge, with so little warning and
many changes, could hardly have been laid upon so weak shoulders.
And I give God hearty thanks that it is passed over (as I hope)
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 135
without shame. The first intention was a bare narration of the progress
of business, since the relation made to both Houses by the Lord Duke,
and, after a short intimation of the importance of the services in hand
and the impossibility to bear the charge without their assistance,
to leave it to their judgments whether they would now proceed to
a resolution, or adjourn till winter, in regard of the sickness. But the
resolution upou the present, which the King himself delivered to me in
his chair, was to shew the importance of the fleet, and it could not
proceed without a present supply by money or credit; which is the
business that now possesseth and troubleth the whole House. And
tomorrow morning is appointed to begin to debate it. The King
himself first delivered his mind effectually and clearly to this end, and I
presume that will be of far more force to sway our resolution than
anything that could be said by any of his servants. The envy that
I bear is that it hath not been known, nor is agreeable to the orders
of the House, (as some think) that a Nether House man was ever
employed to deliver the King's pleasure to both Houses of Parliament :
which came to pass at this time only by reason of the sudden change of
counsel, which gave not time to any other to be instructed for a speech
of near an hour long. For my part I neither had ambition nor thought
of speaking in that place. The King since dinner is gone to meet the
Queen, and the Lord Duke with him. I spake with the Gentleman
Usher, Mr. Harris, about your Lordships' lodging, and he telleth me he
hath reserved one for you within the Court, which I have sent Mr.
Woolcote to see, that he may make his choice of the best. When
further occasion is offered I will give your Honour a further account ;
and in the meantime praying for your health and happiness, do rest
your Lordship's in all humble service, John Coke.
(1633), May 27. Melbourne. John Coke the younger " for yourself "
[Sir John Coke].
This enclosed dated last from Risley was sent on Monday night
to Derby. But that courier went not, so I was extremely disappointed.
I sought for a conveyance from Donington, but the Countess hath
deferred her journey till Tuesday next, it may be for Mr. Henry
Hastings hath the small pox.
I have received more kind entertainment at Risley than you could
have expected, if you had known Sir Henry Willoughby's disposition
and his carriage and reservedness towards others. After that Sir Henry
had so freely the first night taken notice of the intention of my coming,
I desired him next day to give me leave to have some speech with his
daughter. He himself went in presently and sent her out to me into
the great chamber, where I had half an hour's discourse with her.
And because I conceived it to be expected, after supper I rose from the
table when she did and took her by the hand into a round window, and
told her of the occasion of my coming. Next morning I had the oppor-
tunity to find her in the great chamber by some favour and to speak
with her again concerning the same matter. Her answers are civil and
such as befit her modesty. She is a gentlewoman of a good person in
my eye, and of a pretty sweet disposition ; not tall, about my sister
Mary's height and proportion or rather not altogether so tall ; some-
thing pale and of few words, those civil and discreet. I conceived the
whole house to be generally well affected towards me. Having lain
there two nights, on Wednesday I thought fit to take my leave for the
first time. Sir Henry upon this told me he had always borne a very
good affection towards this match, and now by reason of the death of
his daughter Griffith he was desirous she should not be far from him
136 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Cora MSS. that he might have the more comfort of her, and he knew if I had her
1 would carry her but to Melbourne. At my departure he called his
lady and daughter himself into the great chamber that i might take my
leave of them. And the last words he spoke to me were that he hoped
he should see me again before 'twere long. Every one told me I should
find him a man of few words : but I assure you he hath kept me
company for the most part himself with much freeness and familiarity,
insomuch that my cousin Gilbert saith he never knew him to do the
like. I am bound to my lady and all the house. I intend to be at
Risley again on Monday. I go to Trusley this night to receive my
uncle's directions. And I hope to despatch everything so well as is-
requisite and to be at London the beginning of the Term. God hath
blessed me hitherto exceedingly. I desire you to pardon these abrupt
letters in regard of the occasion. I have sent them as they were
written, to testify for me that the fault is not in me you heard from
me no sooner. I pray you give me your blessing and prayers, your
faithfully obedient son.
If you think fit to send these few lines to Sir Francis Darcy in regard
of his desire, I have written them to that purpose.
This letter comes by Mr. Leming, the lawyer. My cousin William
Coke desires to have his service presented to you.
1638-9, January 16. Melbourne. Sir John Coke the Younger [to
Secretary Sir John Coke.] [No address.]
This day the Barbary falcons came both to my hands. That which
we take for a haggard, though Mr. Mayo writes her a rummage falcon,
hath good flesh upon her, endues her meat and pannels very well. But
the sore falcon hath suffered very much in her journey ; for the bearer
confesseth he received her high of her flesh, now she is very poor : yet
I hope we shall recover her, for she puts away her meat and pannels
reasonable well. It seems she was unruly in carriage after the first day
which was I fear caused by over short feeding, and he was to blame for
bringing them 15 or 16 miles at the least yesterday, which was a day
bitter both for cold and snow. Yet I hope they shall both do very
well. The older hawk scaped best, having been, as you write, formerly
reclaimed and so the more gentle. I give you humble thanks for them,
they are indeed very fine birds, and I hope, God willing, to show you
sport with them at your coming into these part3 next summer. By
Mr. Reede I have written something unto you concerning Harlaston,
and I hope by the beginning of the term to give you perfect account.
May you but have a marketable price and I think little exception can
be taken to the place. The land is excellent gcod, in a sure country
for tenants, near the coals, in all respects beyond Etwali ; only that
it stands in the edge of Staffordshire, and that the chapel is supplied by
a curate who hath but small allowance from the parson of Clifton,
within whose parish it is. These are all the incommodities. If the
purchaser pay dear, he may make himself some amends by raising rents-
upon the tenants, who are not so racked as at Etwali, and most of them
at will, the rest only for one life, some two for two lives. If a reason-
able pennyworth may be had, the tenants may be better entreated. If
I commend the place too much, you will guess that I have respect to the
hawking, which is there very convenient and near, both for the field
and river, far beyond Etwali. Of Seale I cannot certainly learn that it
will be sold. I shall be very well contented to pay for the saddles you
have pleased to provide for me. Winter hath not begun with us until
yesterday and this day : now it freezeth very hard. With the mason
I have agreed for 17/. He i6 both to get, hew, and set all the stone
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 137
work. I hope it will be done to your contentment. It is now generally CokbMSS.
conceived, though I know not of any express order given therein, that
His Majesty's pleasure is that all such as find hordes shall furnish them
in those several counties where their estates lie, and that uo man shall
be charged where he liveth for more than the land he hath in that
county. And the reasons hereof are supposed to be these. First that
every county is to defend itself. Secondly that men's estates that lie in
several counties cannot be exactly known in the counties where they
live. And yet I know notwithstanding that certificates have been
admitted by my Lord Newcastle in this county, and by others elsewhere
in like cases, purporting that those gentlemen that show them are
charged for their whole estates where they live. And I believe if they
were admitted generally through the Kingdom it would much advance
His Majesty's service, and greatly ease many that are charged with
horse. For there would not be any one horse the fewer by this means
through the kingdom : for all estates may notwithstanding be charged
with their proportion, though the whole number of horse charged upon
auy one man be showed in one county. And there will be little
difficulty in the discovery of men's estates if this course, or a better, be
taken therein ; to wit, if the Deputy Lieutenants, finding an estate fit
for this charge, be directed to certify the Lieutenant of the County
where the owner liveth that his estate in their county is fit to be
charged with a horse or horses, whereupon he shall be charged in like
manner where his abode is. Neither will any county lose any con-
siderable part of her defence hereby, for the defect will be supplied
answerably on the other side by such who live in that county and have
part of their elates elsewhere. And though perchance hereby some
inequality of a horse or two may happen, yet it is in no ways consider-
able in respect of the benefit that will redound thereby to His Majesty's
service and the ease of his subjects. For by the printed orders of the
year 1626 all such as are charged with horse are strictly required
upon pain of severe punishment to have both their horse and armour
always ready upon an hour's warning ; which is utterly impossible
unless he that is charged keep his horse constantly in that place for
which his charge is. Now the keeping of a horse in another county
than where a man's abode is necessarily draws the charge of a servant
to look to him, both which will amount yearly to the sum of 20/.
Besides that horse and servant, having no other employment nor eye
over them, the disorder of the servant with the loss of the horse is
certainly to be expected. But for the prevention of these inconveniences
almost every man sendeth horses from the place where he liveth into
several counties, even the same both horse and armour which he showeth
at home ; or if his other lands lie far remote, some excuse is made or
otherwise the present necessity is patched and supplied by borrowing
of his friends: so as 1 daresay every county of England loseth part of
her strength hereby, whereas His Majesty's service by the other course
might be advanced, for there is no man that finds three horses in several
counties but he had better find four or five at home. And besides,
gentlemen for their reputations will have more care of that they show
in their own county than where they are strangers. And all consider-
able inconvenience on the other side may be easily redressed by the care
and correspondency of the Lieutenant?. And yet the power of a Lord
Lieutenant in his Commission is not restrained to his own county, but
if he see cause he may and ought to employ the strength of his county in
other places, as well for the conquering of rebels as for the suppressing of
riots and unlawful assemblies of an inferior nature ; which wholly takes
away all objection of inconvenience and inequality of a horse, two or
three, drawn away from any particular shire into another. Thus much
138
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
I have presumed to offer to your consideration, and the rather because,
upon conference had with some of my fellow deputies they seem to be of
the same opinion. I pray God continue your good health and me in
your good favour whilst I am your very obedient and thankful son.
1640, November. List of Accounts for lodgings, suppers, breakfasts,
dinners, &c, of freeholders voting at the election of Sir John Coke the
younger as Knight of the Shire (Derbyshire).
Freeholders.
1. Mather, John 68
2. Smith, Thomas 40
3. Walten, Emme 12
4. Ward, John 31
5. Sore, Walter 73
6. Notons, Willm. 20
7. Pym, Thomas 6
8. At the George
9. Bearsley, Francis
10. Wan del, Margaret
11. Statham, Mrs. (for
6 (horses) -
13 (from the Peak)
wine, sugar, and tobacco which
was for Sir Henry Willoughby's men, and wine
into the town to Ed. Burnes and other places which
was voices for Sir John Cooke)
Wandel, Ann
5
20
26 Richard Greaves and his com-
pany and Long Eaton and
Ripley men
from Pinxton and Selston
12.
13. Hay ward, Henry
14. Bourne, Richard
15. Parr, Phillip
16. Rusford, Robert 6
17. Davis, Robert 10
18. Buck, William 71
19. Eaton, Humfrey
20. Spicer, W.
(at the Angel)
21. Bould, W. -
22. Scampton, Thomas 53
Melbourne and Newton men
and Mr. Hastings' company
116 in 9 Chambers
23. Domelow, John
24. Green, Jarvis
25. Mandsfield, John
26. Roe, John
27. Bourne, Edward
(Rose and Crown)
24
63 - - -
34 - -
12 (from Monyash & Scarsdale")
133
28. Hinckley, Eliz., Ale that Sir J. Coke's men had
29. Stables, Thomas 11
30. At the Talbot 240
31. 16 ...
32. Cordon, Richard Wines -
33. Shepheard, Gilbert 14 -
34. Draper, Thomas 11
35. White Hart for sack, beer, sugar, fire, and oats
36. Sack, claret, and tobacco ....
37. Gillot, Henry, to the Angel, Talbot, Crown, and several
houses, tobacco at 5c?. an ounce and pipes -
4
3
1
5
8
4
1
5
5
1
10
6
2
3
2
2
13
1
33
46
1
1
*. d.
5
13
13
1 6
2
16
10 6
7
2 9
6 6
11
9 6
18 6
17
16 6
14 6
15
1
3 2
13
17
8
8
10
11 6
8
2 6
4
8
17 6
8 4
16 7
7 8
11 6
2 16 S
193 1 8
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 139
1640, November. Derby. A Note of the number of those who had Cokb MSS.
diet at the Talbot at the election of the Knights for the Parliament :
On Wednesday night. Supper in the Great Chamber,
the Parlour, the Hall, the Kitchen - - 46 persons.
On Thursday morning. Breakfast in the Great
Chamber, in the Buttery, in the Kitchen - - 16
On Thursday. Dinner in the Great Chamber, the
Parlour, the Hall, the Stair, the Ceiled Chamber,
the Green Chamber
-
-
240
*
s.
d.
17
8
s.
d.
For 3 hogsheads of beer
-
4
10
1 Runlet of Sack, 12 gallons
-
- 3
4
1 Runlet of Claret wine
-
- 1
12
1 Runlet of White wine
-
- 1
12
1 lbs. of tobacco
.
-
12
A gross of pipes
-
-
2
4
Strong ale
-
1
6
4 lbs. of sugar to brown wine
with
-
5
4
fires in your chambers -
-
-
6
broken glasses -
-
-
6
12
14
2
30
2
2
For Sir John Coke his dinner of Tuesday before the Election :
s. d.
For two joints of roast mutton and salad - - 3 4
a couple of pullets - - - - 2
for wine - - - - - -20
for bread and beer - - - -56
12 10
Hay for 40 horses. Wednesday night
40 horses. Thursday
24 more the same day
64 pecks oats ...
Sir John Coke's horses on Tuesday
Received in full of these four bills 33/. 7s. 6d., Thomas Jemeson.
(1640, November.) Gilbert Shepheard's Bill for the Right Honble.
Sir John Coke, Knight, for charges of certain freeholders that lay at
his house as they came and went to Derby, to give him their voices to
be one of the Knights of the Shire.
s.
d.
-
13
4
-
6
8
-
4
- 1
7
-
1
6
2
12
6
140
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Coke MBS.
Impr. for 4 men of Okethorpe on Wednesday night for
their suppers and breakfasts
for their horses lay all night 4 horses
for 4 pecks of provender -
tor 3 mens' suppers and breakfasts that came on foot
from Smithsby the same night -
for beer for the taid 7 men over night and in the
morning
Item for beer called for by 10 men of Appleby, Oke-
thorpe, and Smithsby as they went back
Item for 7 men of the same towns that stayed all night
for their suppers and breakfasts as they went back
for 4 horses hay -
for 2 pecks of oats -
for beer and tobacco besides over night and in the
morning .....
Total sum
Account of Edward Bourne. Rose and Crown.
" At the Second Meeting."
For Wednesday night supper 46 men
For Thursday dinner 133 men
breakfast 7
Buns, cheese, butter, and bread
Tobacco and pipes ....
Two hogsheads of ale ...
Fifty horses one night at 4d. -
Sixty-seven horses one day at 3d.
16 bushels of oats
s. d.
4
1
2
3
2
4 4
7
1
1
3
1 8 4
s. d.
- 1 10 8
-488
-036
-13 2
-090
-300
;}
3
1640, November 5. (Derby.) A note for the Big
John Coke of William Spicer at the Angel
Wednesday night before 22 gent at supper
For breakfast on Thursday -
In the Hall at dinner on Thursday 19
Little Parlour 15
Long Parlour 35 -
Hall Chamber 10
Cieled Chamber 16
New Chamber 5 -
Boarded Chamber 1 -
Still Chamber 4
Kitchen 4 -
Afterwards in the Boarded Chamber8
The sum is
Delivered in beer, manchent, nutmegs, and sugar -
Your worship's horse meat comes to - -
So that the just sum in all is
13 2
6
ht Honble. Sir
s.
d.
1 2
3
19
19
1 15
10
16
5
1
4
4
8
7 2
4
6
1 9
2
12 11
8
HI8T0BI0AL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
141
Account of Jarvis Green :
In the Hall 35 men
In the Parlour 3
In my Master's Chamber 9
In the Hall (again) 16
For a hogshead of beer drunk between meals
bill of Sir John Coke for the election to Thomas Stables
s. d.
Supper, breakfast, and dinner for Godfrey Swift of
Brampton, John Blyth of Norton, and Christopher
Bower and Giles Cowley of Ashover - - 7 4
Eleven of your neighbours to dinner and for beer at
times - - - - - -0 15 4
Hay and provender for 8 horses - - - 6 2
Cokb MS8,
9.
d.
~
1 1
8
2
6
10
8
1 10
4
3 10
1 8 10
For Sir John Coke and Sir John Curzon
Mr. Rolison of Norton, John Meriman of Hollinton,
and Christopher Wood of Wilne meals and beer
and provender - - - - -0 611
(1643), (August 23, should be September.) Mary Hartopp and Anne
Sacheverell.
Indorsed by Sir J. Coke, "Daughters from London," "received
30 Sept." No year. No address. Much torn.
We make bold to present our [humble] duty to you and to let you
know of our all being here. All things are quiet. We heard this news
from the army from one that is there, that the King took our forces at
a great disadvantage and hemmed them in and began before they were
aware and so not ready, but they hasted to get ready and my Lord
General did very bravely, and when the forlorn hope was unwilling to
go he would have gone with them himself, but they would not suffer
him, but he went up and down encouraging his soldiers and behaved
himself very valiantly. The King's forces prevailed from morning till
three o'clock in the afternoon, and then it pleased God to give our men
the day. They won the field and followed them to Newbury and stood
before the town all night, and in the morning gave them an alarm, but
the King's forces were gone to Oxford, so my Lord and his army went
into the town and retreshed themselves and then after that went to
Reading. The number slain on our side i9 said generally to be 00,
three good captains slain. They chiefly aimed against the London forces
and shot with chain shot and all ways that would murder most cruelly.
There [are on] their side slain a thousand bodies [ ] beside what
they carried with them. My [Lord] Falkland is slain, the Earl of
Sunder[land] and Lord Spencer slain, and my Lord [Carn]arvon and
many more of note slain and taken prisoners. Sir William Waller is
going speedily [to my] Lord General. Thus far we have made bold to
acquaint you with the best news we have, fearing [ ]ble
take leave remaining your most duty and obedient [daughter] Anne
[Sacheverell].
Daughter Hartopp presents her humble duty and little [John] his.
142 HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION.
Undated, temp. James I. and Charles I.
No date. Sir Thomas Edmonds to the King.
When your Majesty was pleased to command me to undertake the
employment of France, I did readily submit myself thereunto.
I did largely issue of my own means, my preparations for the journey,
which was meant should extend as far as Piedmont, costing me no less
than 2,000/. before my going forth. The time of my employment,
being designed only for three months, lasted for almost a whole year,
which, increasing my charge, forced me to spend the greatest part of a
large sum of money, which I had raised by the sale of the Clerkship of
the Crown, and intended for the marriage portions of my two daughters.
. . . I was forced to sell away the present that was given me and
to make other hard shifts to release my debts and to defray my expense
in my return. . . . By the affliction which I received in my
absence, by the death of my wife, I lost 1,500/. a year, which I enjoyed
by her jointure : besides to my further grief, I then also lost by the
taking away of my board wages, well near the sum of 800/. by the year.
. . . Whereas it pleased your deceased father of glorious memory to
grant unto me a pension of 750/. a year payable out of the Court of
Wards, upon the resigning of a patent of the Greenwax made to the
Duke of Richmond and myself, the which by reason of Sir Myles
Fleetwood's great neglect of me, is for the most part long detained from
me, may it please your Majesty to approve that my said pension may
be changed and transferred on the Household payments, and in lieu
thereof, to the end that the House may receive no prejudice, that the
like sum may be charged upon the Wards to be paid into the House,
and that my said pension of 750/. may be increased to 1,000/., wherein,
as I hope my suit is modest, so I can instance favours which in this
kind has been granted to others of my condition.
(No date, no signature.) Lord Keeper Coventry to Sir John Coke.
[Indorsed by Sir John Coke, " Lord Keeper."]
Sir, It may be you will find it necessary to read my letter to his
Majesty or to show it to some other, and therefore I pray you give me
leave by this private paper to yourself to . I conceive this
business to be of moment, for as I have said heretofore in Starchamber
and at Council Board, so I believe that the people of England have lost
more by counterfeit farthing tokens and by other the consequences of
this business than by all the counterfeit coins since the first year of
Queen Elizabeth. And I do not see that this patent will any way
remove, but rather increase the disease. I desire much that his Majesty
should be rightly possessed of the business before his coming from
Woodstock ; for perchance at Windsor he will be set upon eagerly to
pass it. For I perceive somebody was jealous I would stop it, and
therefore put his Majesty on Sunday last to question me about it, when
it had been but two days in my hand, and before I could read and per-
fectly understand it. You cannot but remember the debates that have
been at the Council table about it ; and now I see the advantage of a
progress is taken to put it upon me to pass, when there is no Council
Board held to which I might make my address for help or advice. If
you could fitly acquaint my Lord of Canterbury with it before you
speak to the King, and then move it to the King when he shall be
present, I presume he would be sensible of so public a business and set
it with you. This I leave to your own good consideration, and, if you
think good, to use my name to him, and that it was my desire he should
be acquainted with it. I leave that also to you, to do as you think best.
HISTORICAL MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION. 143
I beseech you when you have done what you think fit, convey the
privy seal safe to me, with an advertisement what you have done, and
now his Majesty doth relish the business, that I may know what shall
be fit for me to do. And I desire that I may hear from you with as
much expedition as you can. This private paper you will let none see
but yourself, and when you have done with it, remit it to the fire.
Sir John Coke to [Lord Keeper?].
[Indorsed " Copy to the Lord Treasurer "]
Right Honourable, According to your direction I have acquainted the
Lord Archbishop with the contents of your letter ; and took occasion to
tell the King that I had received from your Lordship a letter concerning
the stay made by you of the patent for farthing tokens; which in regard
of the length and his Majesty's present occupations, I thought not fit
to trouble him with till he had a free time : and because it seemed to me
a matter of great importance both to his honour and the public, I desired
that, by his leave, I might communicate it with my Lord's Grace, who
was lately come to Court. This was granted : and upon conference with
his Grace we attended this afternoon, and his Majesty patiently heard
your letter, and our motions thereupon. My Lord Archbishop, both for
respect to your Lordship, and sense of the prejudice that would grow by
this grant, spake clearly and fully, relating what had passed both in the
Starchamber and at the Council Board : and the Lord Marshal's earnest
expressions thereupon. In conclusion his Majesty declared that, though
he was willing to advantage my Lord Marshal, yet his intention was
not to make him any other grant than before had been made by his
father, without enlargement in any point. He commanded me there-
fore to let you know that he approved the stay you had [made], and
that you should not let it pass till he spake with you further, when
you came to Windsor. His Majesty did also let us know that this
motion for my Lord Marshal's recompense in this particular proceeded
from the Lord Treasurer ; and that thereupon he was engaged to the
Duchess, to pay her out of profits as much as she had made of it, which
amounted to 1,000/. per annum. But though he had given charge to
Sir Francis Crane to pay her duly, yet she complained that he had
given her no contentment. This is all the account I can give your
Lordship concerning that business. His Majesty hath also been pressed
in the Earl of Carlisle's name to require your Lordship to pass the patent
of Sir Purey Barton and Sir Philip Landon : but all he is pleased to do
thereupon is to will your Lordship to acquaint him upon what reasons
you made the stay ; which you will be pleased to do when you come to
court.
No date. A paper indorsed by Sir John Coke " Lord of Collingham."
May it please your Majesty to give order to your Secretary of State-
Sir John Coke to draw a warrant that my Lord Treasurer and my
Lord General may proceed'i n determining the case questionable betwixt
the Earl of Ancram and me, with power to examine the Earl upon oath
and to call before them Mr. Kirke and my lawyer Mr. Bosden of the
Middle Temple. . . . And to signify your royal pleasure to their Lord-
ships that, as your Majesty was pleased to allow the Earl of Ancram
1,500/. towards the relief of my burdens, which, as he alleged, he fully
stood engaged for, but his engagements being found far short of that sum,
the residue of the moneys may be reserved for my use, for the further
satisfaction of my creditors, 
