|
| July 1. |
Charles Knight sworn of the Assembly. The bill for recovery of fines amended and read a third time. Message from the Assembly proposing to lay a tax on imported negroes, an additional duty on wines, a duty on goods imported in foreign bottoms, and a duty on the export of money and bullion. |
| July 2. |
The Assembly attended, and the Lieutenant Governor informed them that three of their proposals were inconsistent with his instructions, and that the additional duty on wines would not be approved by the King. Message from the Assembly asking for an adjournment; which was agreed to. [Col. Entry Book, Vol. XXXVI., pp. 117–123.] |
July 1.
H.M.S.
Dartmouth. |
744. Receipt by Captain St. Loe for stores received from Deputy Governor Sir James Russell. Signed, John Chapman. Countersigned, G. St. Loe. 1 p. Endorsed. Received 22 March, 1686–7. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 112.] |
| July 1. |
745. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Order in Council summoning the Assembly for 20 October next. Order directing the King's collectors to instruct ship's masters to be cautious in divulging news and reports. Mr. Mein's instructions read delivered to the collectors. Order to parish ministers to send a return of christenings and burials annually to the Secretary's Office. The heir of the Queen of the Pamun-
key Indians to be summoned in order to be confirmed in his government; the Indian Harry's wife to attend at the same time to be examined as to what is to become of Colonel Byrd's Indians. Orders for the King to be moved to allow an Act to advance the value of pieces-of-eight, and for an address as to Thomas Sandys's petition (see next abstracts). [Col. Entry Book, Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 225–231.] |
July 2.
Virginia. |
746. Address of the Council of Virginia to the King. Asking permission for the Assembly to pass an Act advancing the value of pieces-of-eight and of French crowns to five shillings English sterling, the King's dues being advanced proportionately that his revenues may not be diminished. Recd. 5 Sept., 1686. Copy, 2pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 113, and Col. Entry Book, Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 114–115.] |
| July 2. |
747. Address of the Council of Virginia to the King. Against granting the petition of Thomas Sandys for leave to ship 800 Ibs. of tobacco free of duty, as a bad precedent. [Col. Entry Book, Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 115–117.] |
July 3.
Hampton
Court. |
748. Order of the King in Council. Referring the petition of the inhabitants of New Hampshire to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed, Wm. Bridgeman. 1 p. Annexed. |
|
748. I. The petition referred to. We have lived for fifty years in peaceable possession of the lands now challenged by Robert Mason. On the creation of the new Government the Governor was instructed to settle and quiet the people in respect of Mr. Mason's title or to report the case impartially to the King. On the contrary Mr. Mason has been permitted to bring actions wherein the Government have arrogated the power of an absolute judgment, and have given costs of ten and twenty pounds in cases sometimes where the damage did not exceed two shillings. He has also challenged fenced and improved lands contrary to royal order. For the last two years and more one jury, and very often one foreman, has generally been returned to serve in all the issues connected with Mr. Mason's title, and this foreman was tampered with by Mason. Again, notwithstanding the royal prohibition of any further proceedings in Mr. Mason's title until the case were brought befor the King in Council, Deputy-Governor Walter Barefoot has permitted executions to be levied and persons to be imprisoned with excessive costs and damages. We gratefully acknowledge your goodness in allowing Mr. William Vaughan to appeal against several harsh and oppressive judgments here; and we send Mr. Nathaniel Weare to represent our grievances. Nine columns of signatures and marks, the first on the list that ofRichard Waldern. 3 large sheets. Endorsed. Read at the Committee 6 July 1686. The appeal heard 6 Nov. 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., Nos. 114–114 I., and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXVII., p. 156.] |
July 3.
Rhode
Island. |
749. Walter Newbery to George Whitehead. Ten days ago a writ of Quo Warranto against our charter arrived. We are all agreed not to defend it but to submit to the King's pleasure, for which the enclosed address has been prepared. Entract. Copy. ½ p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 115.] |
July 3.
Newport,
Rhode
Island. |
750. The Governor and Company of Rhode Island to the King. We have received on the 22nd June the Quo Warranto against our charter. The time limited for our appearance was expired before the writ reached our hand. We have proclaimed that we shall not stand suit against you notwithstanding, but beg for your princely bounty in our charter contained, the rather for we are a loyal people and despised of the neighbouring colonies. Before we received the writ we learned from Mr. Dudley that the greater part of our Colony, called the King's Province, was taken from us; which we did not oppose. We beg for our former privileges in religious matters and forming of oaths and attestations, that Newport may be made a free port, that no persons may be set over us who suit not our nature and constitution, and that our past failings may not be harshly judged. Signed, Walter Clarke, Governor. Large sheet. Endorsed. Read 7 Sept. Presented at Windsor 12 Sept., 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII, No. 116, and Col. Entry Book, Vol. LXI., pp. 304–305.] |
July 3.
Milford. |
751. The Governor of Connecticut to Governor Dongan. I beg your favour on behalf of one Daniel Bull, of Seabrook, a constable, who has by misfortune suffered a notorious rogue to escape from his custody. He craves for your help and that of your inferior officers in following the culprit westward. You may rely on similar help from us in a similar case. Mr. Randolph in his last letter to the Governor and Company seems to wind up his resolve to report simply as a private gentleman instead of serving his Quo Warranto, though he has the writ with him. The receipt of his letter is owned by our Council, and this he says will be sufficient to justify him at Whitehall without showing any further authority from the King. This proceeding we do not understand, for the King's proclamation was that we should remain as we are until further signification of his pleasure. So there we stand and must remain for aught I know. I have called a Court for the 6th inst. to consult, but what the issue will be I know not. I should be glad of your advice. Signed, R. Treat. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 9 May, 1687, from Colonel Dongan. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 117.] |
July 3.
Hampton
Court,
Treasury
Chambers. |
752. Henry Guy to William Blathwayt. Forwarding report of Commissioners of Customs on the magazine ship for Bermuda (see No. 730). ½ p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 118.] |
| July 4. |
753. Earl of Sunderland to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Ordering a commission, etc., to be prepared for Sir Robert Robinson who has been appointed Governor of Bermuda. Signed, Sunderland. 1 p. Endorsed. Read 6 July, 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 119., and Col. Entry Book, Vol. XVIII., p. 3.] |
July 5.
Jamaica |
754. Lieutenant Governor Molesworth to [William Blathwayt]. I received intimation from Colonel Stede as to one John Webber who had passed by Barbados from this place and was strongly suspected to be the man excepted from the King's pardon. I have caused him to be found out and apprehended. It seems that he shipped himself aboard a Guinea ship at the port of London in June 1685, and had confessed to a woman in Barbados that he was born at Lyme, was in the country at the time of the late rebellion, escaped to London and then took ship; but as this was done before the defeat of rebels, he would have it that he cannot be the person excepted, there being, moreover, others of his name in those ports. He lately sent me a petition for leave to go home on the same ship, giving security for his surrendering himself to the Secretary of State. I thought this the most reasonable way of bringing him to justice and consented, if the security was sufficiently good, but have not heard from him since. I shall send him in that or another ship under the best security that I can get. |
|
The Assembly have considered that part of my speech which deals with raising money for the expense of the negro-rebellion, but though unanimous that the thing shall be done, cannot agree as to the manner of doing it. They are willing to have the parties paid and their estates secured, but they do not wish to be at any charge themselves, and therefore have been very industrious in finding out such other ways of doing it as may best answer that end, without regarding whether they be reasonable or practicable. But being hotly carried in by the two lawyers, Elletson and Musgrave (chosen on purpose to obstruct the Government as much as possible) with that plausible notion of saving the country money, the Grand Committee decided to lay a duty on exported negroes, an additional duty on wine, an impost on all goods imported in foreign bottoms (viz., the Assiento), and an impost on money and bullion exported. When this was reported by the Chairman, some of the House (by my order) declared they had heard me say that most of these proposals were contrary to my instructions, and that I could not assent to them, so that it would be useless to proceed further with them. They then sent me a message, asking how far their proposals were consonant with my instructions. I answered, with all candour and integrity, that three of the four were inconsistent with my instructions, and as to the fourth, the additional duty on wines, though I had no special instructions, yet my reason told me the King would never consent that the money raised by duties on foreign merchandise should be applied to such a use as securing ourselves against our own slaves, and that it would therefore be better to add it to the revenue. My message arrived at a time when the Speaker was taken ill. He desired them to choose another, but they refused, and moved for an adjournment for a week, alleging the approach of Quarter Sessions in all the neighbouring districts. I consented, and they accordingly adjourned without further debate on my message. Mr. Elletson, four days ago, showed me an Order in Council upon his petition for re-admission to his practice, whereby it was referred to me either to restore him or to show good reason
to the contrary. After consultation with the Council, I agreed to answer that consideration thereof would be deferred until the close of the Session of the Assembly. He then brought me a petition for a more positive answer, which I declined to give. I think this was reasonable in the present conjuncture. |
|
In the action against Banister Captains Sprag and Talbot spent nearly all their powder. Sprag had only one round left and Talbot not more than eight or nine. Talbot asks for sixty barrels to make good his complement, and Sprag twenty-three, of which I have ordered fifty and twenty for a present supply. Extract. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXI., pp. 161, 167.] |
|
Copy of the last paragraph of the foregoing, in duplicate. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., Nos. 120–121.] |
| July 5. |
755. Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth's instructions to Captain Sprag of H.M.S. Drake. To sail, with a sloop in company, for Hispaniola, cruise between Cape Tiburon and the east end of Hispaniola, and endeavour to seek out and destroy the pirate Banister. On same sheet, |
|
Instructions from the same to Captain Talbot, H.M.S. Falcon, to join Captain Sprag before Port Samana, and endeavour likewise to destroy Banister. Dated, 7 July, 1686. Copy. 3 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 2 Sept. '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 122.] |
| [July 5.] |
756. State of the case depending before arbitrators between Mrs. Sarah Bland and Colonel St. Leger Codd. Three closely written pages. Endorsed. Recd. 5 July 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 123.] |
| July 6. |
757. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. A letter from Colonel Robert Byndloss read (see No. 586). A copy to be sent to the Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica for report. Draft Commission to the Duke of Albermarle considered, also his Grace's proposals (see No. 759). |
|
Copy of the trial of George Talbot for the murder of Christopher Rousby read. The matter referred to the King. Memo.: On the 15th, at Windsor, the King pardoned George Talbot, on condition of five years' banishment from his dominions. |
|
Petition of the Quakers of Barbados read. A copy to be sent to the Lieutenant-Governor and Council, for their report (see No. 742). Colonel Stede's letter of 27 April read (see No. 642) and reserved for the King. |
|
Petition of the inhabitants of New Hampshire read (see No. 748I.). Copy thereof to be sent to Mr. Mason on his arrival in England. |
|
Report of the Commissioners of Customs on the magazine ship for Bermuda read (see No. 730). The Lords concur therewith, but desire the opinion of the Lord Treasurer on the question of bonds. Memorandum of documents sent and received. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CVIII., pp. 285–290.] |
| July 6. |
758. Memorandum of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Asking for the King's pleasure on three proposals of the Duke of
Albemarle. 1. That on suspension of a Councillor, the Governor have power to nominate another in his place, irrespective of the numbers of the Council. 2. That the Governor be given power to dispose of money without the advice and consent of the Council. 3. That in case of his sickness, he may be allowed by his instructions to go to any of the Colonies in America to recover his health. |
|
The King on July 6th answered, granting the third request, but leaving the two first to be settled according to the instructions drawn up for Sir Philip Howard. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXI., pp. 242, 243.] |
| [July 6.] |
759. The Duke of Albemarle's proposals for Jamaica. 1. That the King allow two foot companies of fifty men each, as in Lord Carlisle's time, to garrison the forts, which are now much enlarged, and to repress the negroes and prevent their bloody rebellions, by which several families have been lately destroyed. There is no force now, except the Militia, for these duties. An armourer also should be provided for the care of the arms. 2. That the King order a sufficient proportion of military stores to be furnished by the Master of the Ordnance, this charge having always been borne bv the King, and the Island having no means of furnishing themselves except by requiring powder of the vessels trading thither. 3. That the King consider the need of a residence for the Governor, both at Port Royal and St. Jago de la Vega, the present houses being out of repair and unfit to receive a Governor. 4. That the King appoint a fifth-rate frigate in those parts, the pirates rendering this more than ever necessary. 5. That passage be allowed for 100 servants and 500 tons of goods. Lord Carlisle was allowed 75 servants and 350 tons, of goods. Lord Carlisle was allowed 75 servants and 350 tons, and his family was much less in proportion. 6. That furniture for a chapel be ordered, as for Lord Carlisle, and also books of Homilies. 7. That the negro trade between the Royal Africa Company, the Island, and the Spaniards may be settled, and that the Company and the merchants make their proposals accordingly. These proposals are submitted for the King's approval. The present Government will cost £2,500 less to the Royal Exchequer than Lord Carlisle's, Draft, with corrections. Endorsed. Read 6 July 1686. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 124.] |
| [July 6.] |
760. A summary of the foregoing, written fair. 1 p. Col. Papers, Vol. LVII, No. 125.] |
| [July 6.] |
761. Petition of Nathaniel Weare to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Begging for an early day for the hearing of the appeal of William Vaughan, for whom he is acting as attorney. Signed, Nathll. Weare. 1 p. Endorsed. Read 6 July. Oct. 13 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 126.] |
| July 6. |
762. William Blathwayt to Henry Grey. My Lords wish to know whether it is desirable to resettle the Mint in Boston by Sir Edmund Andros's Commission. I enclose an extract from the laws of New England concerning the Mint, for the Lord Treasurer's opinion. Draft, with corrections. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 127.] |
| July 6. |
763. Address from the Governor and Company of Connecticut to the King. We are informed that a writ of quo warranto is issued against our charter, and though we have not seen it we hasten to ask pardon for our mistakes, and to implore you to recall the writ. We are loyal subjects and resolved to approve ourselves such, and we beg you to continue us as an entire province or Government, for the contrary will be very hurtful to us. Signed, Robert Treat, Governor; John Allyn, Secrety. 1 p. closely written. Endorsed. Read at the Committee, 26 Sept. 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 128.] |
July 6.
Council
Chamber. |
764. Lords of Trade and Plantations to the Lord President. Desiring him to lay before the King Lieutenant-Governor Stede's request for guns. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 378.] |
| July 6. |
765. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Pursuant to the King's letters of 27 February, Colonel Codrington took the oaths and signed the test, and was admitted to the Council Board. Order for issue of writs for election of a new Assembly. Order for payments for the repairs of fortifications. Order prohibiting clerks of the Common Pleas to act as attorneys. The Royal Instructions touching St. Lucia communicated to the Council. Captain Temple to be despatched in H.M.S. Mary Rose. Samuel Hanson appeared and withdrew his appeal. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XI., pp. 701–704.] |
| July 6. |
766. William Blathwayt to Henry Guy. Asking the Lord Treasurer's opinion whether the masters of the magazine ships to be appointed for Bermuda should give bond in Bermuda or in England. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., p. 25.] |
July 7.
St.Giles. |
767. Lord Shaftesbury to the Earl of Craven. I have received yours, but not knowing upon what ground the quo warranto was to be brought against our patent of Carolina, can give no result upon it. There have been considerable sums of money disbursed by the Proprietors to bring it to this effect, and I cannot see by what possibility they can be re-imbursed if the Patent be surrendered. I shall be as unwilling to dispute the King's pleasure as any man, but this being a public concern is not within the power of any particular man to dispose of. I shall, therefore, acquaint you with the decision of the majority of the Proprietors. Signed, Shaftesbury. 1 p. Endorsed. Read to his Maty., 25 July 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 129.] |
| July 7. |
768. Minutes of Council of Nevis. Sir William Stapleton's Commission to Captain Bear, of 25 September 1684 was read, empowering him to capture Indians and pirates. Several of Captain Bear's crew deposed that his ship, while bound to Nevis with stores, sprang a leak off Scilly, and that the voyage was continued in another ship. Resolved that Sir William Stapleton's commission is insufficient for the present ship, and that another be issued to Captain Bear. Certified true copy. Signed, Tho. Fenton. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 130.] |
|
769. Duplicate of foregoing. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 131.] |
July 8.
Council
Chamber. |
770. Lords of Trade and Plantations to Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth. Ordering him to enquire and report as to the truth of the charge against Colonels Beeston and Waterhouse, of being concerned in all interloping ships (see No. 586). Signed, Rochester, Sunderland, Albemarle, Craven, Middleton, J. Ernle. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXI.,p. 157.] |
July 9.
Nevis. |
771. The Agents of the Royal African Company to the Company. Some of the chiefs of this Island and St. Christopher's, often discourse of the greater convenience of buying negroes from the Dutch at St. Eustatia than from the Company. They argue that there is no law or charter that can prevent them from buying them and bringing them here publicly in English bottoms. They say that the Royal Charter and proclamation prohibit them only from going to Guinea, so that they may freely buy negroes at any other place and import them. If this be done, it will be very prejudicial to the Company, and will encourage the Dutch to establish a magazine for negroes on St. Eustatia. Signed, Hen. Carpenter, Thos. Belchamber. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 1st and read 7th Sept. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 132.] |
| July 13. |
772. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. The Assembly attended, but wished to adjourn again, in consequence of the illness of the Speaker. The Governor bade them go back and choose a Speaker and they chose Mr. George Nedham, who was approved. The Governor made a speech, urging the payment of the country's debts by a tax upon themselves. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol XXXVI., p. 123.] |
July 14.
Virginia. |
773. The Secretary of Virginia to [the Earl of Sunderland]. I enclose duplicate of the report of the trial of Colonel George Talbot. He tried hard to insinuate that the vile act was the effect of passion. Certainly some heats passed between him and Rousby in discourse, which, he being inflamed by drink, might be taken as the cause of that fatal effect. I hope next year to avail myself of the King's leave of absence for twelve months. Signed, Nicho. Spencer. Holograph. 1 p. Annexed, |
|
773. I. The trial of Colonel George Talbot for the murder of Christopher Rousby (see No. 629). This report includes the proceedings before the Grand Jury, Nov. 21st 1685, and Lord Howard of Effingham's order for the reprieve of sentence, pending the King's order. 26 April 1686. The whole. 6 pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., Nos. 133, 133 I.] |
July 14.
Nevis. |
774. Deputy-Governor Sir James Russell to Captain St. Loe. Ordering him to sail to Bermuda and ask permission to examine Captain Bartholomew Sharpe's commission, to find out how he came into possession of his present ship, where she was brought on trial, and how she was condemned. If the answers are unsatisfactory, Sharpe is to be seized as a pirate and brought to trial.
The Dartmouth will then proceed to Boston, where money will be ready for the repair of the ship, and return to Nevis before the 20th October. Signed, Ja. Russell. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 1.] |
| July 15. |
775. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. On the request of the Assembly, a conference was held on the amendments to the Bill for ascertaining servitude of rebels. |
| July 16. |
The Assembly desired a conference on the Bill for recovery of fines and forfeitures. |
| July 17. |
Report of the conference on the Bill for ascertaining the servitude of rebels. Further amendments. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 123a, 124a.] |
| July 16. |
776. Henry Guy to William Blathwayt. Forwarding a letter from the Commissioners of Customs. Signed, Hen. Guy. ½ p. Annexed, |
|
776. I. Commissioners of Customs to Lords of Trade and Plantations. In reply to Mr. Blathwayt's letter of 6th inst., touching the taking of bonds from masters of ships trading to Bermuda, we find that the law provides that bond should be given here, or we should have thought it better that it should be taken in the Plantations. Signed, W. Dickinson, Ch. Cheyne, D. North, Jo. Werden, J. Baker, J. Buckworth, T. Chudleigh, Sam. Clarke. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 16 July. Read 26 July '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., Nos. 2, 2 I., and (enclosure only) Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., pp. 25, 26.] |
| July 16. |
777. Petition of certain inhabitants of Rhode Island to the King. We here present our full and free resignation of the power committed to us by our Charter. The General Assembly have made their public declaration that they will not stand suit, but will address you for continuation of their privileges according to Charter. We, your present petitioners, declare that we knew nothing of it nor have left further proceedings to the Assembly, but present ourselves to you, begging to be discharged of all levies and contributions to which they would expose us to defray the cost of sending an agent to England. Thirteen signatures and one mark. Large sheet. Endorsed. Recd. 14 Dec. '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 3.] |
July 17.
Jamaica. |
778. Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth to William Blathwayt. Since my last the frigates are returned to seek Banister where they left him. The Assembly on meeting after their last adjournment in consequence of the Speaker's illness were for adjourning de die in diem, so that I was forced to order them to choose another for the time and to proceed to business. They chose Mr. George Nedham, whom I approved, taking opportunity to make them the speech herein enclosed. I did so since I was led to expect that they would not raise the money upon themselves if they could not do it in the way proposed. This was previous to my resolution to dissolve them, for I wished first to secure the two Bills which lay
before them and to obtain their consent to our amendments. Since this some of the adverse party are come over, in particular Musgrave, whom I have mentioned as one of their leaders. Possibly these may gain others, so I thought best to let them adjourn for four or five days before coming to a vote. Yesterday was the day appointed for this last. Most of the past week has been spent in debates and conferences over the two other Bills. These are now agreed on and ordered to be engrossed with the proviso that the passing of them shall not end the Session, so that I expect to have them secure very soon. If I cannot obtain a vote for money within four or five days after, I shall dissolve them, being satisfied that I have put them in the way to secure themselves, which if they refuse to do as they ought, they must take the consequences. |
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The privateers in the South Seas, notwithstanding the Spanish boasts that they are conquered, still hold ports from which they intercept and disturb trade. They have lately intercepted a ship of four hundred negroes belonging to the Assiento. They have two or three settlements where they plant and till the ground and keep the negroes to work for them. Unless speedily suppressed these pirates will be the ruin of the chief trade of Christendom as they are already of the Assiento. But I cannot expect that the Spaniards will do it, nor will they trust others to do it for them. The French fleet, after lying a long time in the Bay of Honduras, is now for the most part dispersed. Such as could make shift to get themselves ready separated from them, leaving the rest in great distress for want of victuals. Grammont is of these last, he and his people being very sickly. Unless relieved he must probably perish there. Laurens passed our north coast the other day, bound for Tortugas, but not in command, as he himself told the master of one of our sloops. So their design of going to the South Seas is at an end for the present. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXI., pp. 171–175.] |
| [July 17.] |
779. Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth's speech to the Assembly of Jamaica (see preceding abstract). A great deal of time has fled away to no purpose, so I am resolved to consent to no more superfluous adjournment. You have passed a vote for raising the money, but have proposed no effectual way for raising it. You will find no plan so good as to secure our estates by our estates. It will be in the nature of insurance, and I reckon that what is now required of you does not exceed five shillings for every hundred pounds' value of our real estates. So if you intend to raise the money, set about it heartily; if not, tell me, that I may know what to do. I have done my duty, and if you fail to do yours the opposers of it will be answerable for any innocent blood that may be spilt on occasions that might have been prevented. I wash my hands of it. Copy. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 30 Oct. 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVII., No. 4.] |
| July 20. |
780. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Message from the Assembly as to the two Bills. A committee appointed to examine the accounts relating to the negro rebellion. The Assembly appointed a committee to join with them. |
| July 21. |
The Assembly sent up the two Bills, which were passed. The Governor recommended the Assembly to proceed with an Act for better ordering of negroes. Report of the committee on the accounts of the negro rebellion, the total cost of which was $3,203, with a specification of the items that were absolutely necessary to be paid. Message from the Assembly asking for a joint committee in the Negro Act. Granted. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 125–127.] |
| July 23. |
781. Journals of Lords of Trade and Plantations. List of the Lords. Prince George of Denmark, Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Chancellor, Lord Treasurer, Lord President, Lord Privy Seal, Dukes of Ormonde, Albermarle, Newcastle, Beaufort, Queensberry, Lord Great Chamberlain, Lord Chamberlain, Earls of Oxford, Huntingdon, Bridgewater, Peterborough, Chesterfield, Bath, Craven, Powis, Berkeley, Nottingham, Plymouth, Moray, Perth, Middleton, Melfort, Tyrconnel, Viscounts Fauconberg and Preston, Bishop of Durham, Lords Arundel of Wardour, Bellasis, Dartmouth, Godolphin, and Dover, Henry Coventry, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Lord Chief Justice Herbert. |
|
Letter from the President and Council of New England of 1 June read (see No. 702). Ordered that Mr. Mason attend the King at Windsor next Sunday with their addresses, and that the matter be noticed in the Gazette. Memo. That Mr. Mason did so accordingly on 25 July. |
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The Duke of Albemarle's Commission considered. The King's answers to his proposals (see No. 759) read, and the Commission approved. |
|
Petition of Sarah Bland read (see next abstract). A letter to be written to Lord Howard of Effingham in compliance therewith. |
|
Draft Commission for Sir Robert Robinson as Governor of Bermuda read and approved. Report of Commissioners of Customs of 14th inst. as to bonds to be taken by shipmasters trading to Bermuda read (see No. 776). The Lords agree therewith, and ordered Sir Robert's instructions to be drawn accordingly. |
|
Letter to Lieutenant-Governor Stede as to the Quakers petition, signed. |
|
Memorandum of documents sent and received. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 1–7.] |
| [July 23.] |
782. Petition of Sarah Bland to Lords of Trade and Plantations. That her case against Colonel St. Leger Codd may be determined by Lord Howard of Effingham. 1 p. Inscribed. Read 23 July and 16 Aug. 86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 5.] |
| July 23. |
783. Lords of Trade and Plantations to Lieutenant-Governor Stede. We forward to you a petition from the Quakers in Barbados for your report as to the possibility, consistently with the safety of the Island, of easing their burdens under the Militia Act (see No. 742). The King having extended his favour to the Quakers here may be inclined to continue the same to them in this particular. Signed, Jeffreys, Albemarle, Craven, Middleton. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 379.] |
| July 23. |
784. Extract from the Minutes of Council of New England. The Council met at Cambridge, the President and six members present. It was unanimously agree:—1. That the Rev. Increase Mather be asked to accept the Rectorship of the College. 2. That John Leverett and William Brattle be tutors. 3. That Charlestown Ferry and Mr. Penoyer's legacy, i.e., one moiety of it as falleth, be settled upon the said tutors for salary. 4. That their pupils pay to their respective tutors ten shillings a quarter for tution. 5. That Andrew Roademan, the present cook, be henceforth steward of the College. Certified copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 25 May 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 6.] |
July 23.
Chesapeeke. |
785. Samuel Winder to Governor Dongan. Hearing that you could not come as you intended to my plantation, I took the sloop and went down to meet you. Not having the good fortune to see you, I went on board the ship from Madagascar and found Captain Santen, Barre Tuder, and Antill. Captain Santen used, as I thought, very unbecoming words of you, saying that you had put Antill on board as your spy, with intent to trepan him, but that for your cunning he would secure the ships and dispose of them as he thought fit, and so on. At last I told him that he did ill to speak like this before the captain, who was a stranger. Thereupon he fell into a passion, went on board his ship, ordered my master aboard, and demanded his cocket, to which he replied that it was not customary to take one. After a time he dismissed him, but afterwards the master and merchant came to me and said that after the language used by the Collector, they would not go up to New York, for they would assuredly be seized. I told them that your words were sufficient security for them, but they answered that it was doubtful where the power lay, as the Collector had the commission, and that he might give them so much trouble that they would not afford him the opportunity. At last, sooner than allow him to put to sea, I agreed with him for the negroes, and the master has entered his ship at Amboy. I hope that you will not blame me for his not coming to New York. Signed, Sam. Winder. 2½ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 7.] |
July 23.
New York. |
786. Affidavit of William Wolliford, master of the ship Mariner's Adventure, and of his crew, that he has traded in no port belonging to Royal African Company. Sworn before Lucas Santen, Collector. Copy. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 8.] |
July 23.
New York. |
787. Permit for the Mariner's Adventure to enter the road and discharge cargo. Signed, Lucas Santen. Copy. ½ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 9.] |
| July 24. |
788. Commission to Sir Robert Robinson, Knight, to be Governor of Bermuda. Passed under the Great Seal, 9 September 1686. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., pp. 4–22.] |
| [July 25.] |
789. Abstract concerning Tortola, demanded by the Dutch Ambassador. Sir William Stapleton reports the reduction of the Island in 1672, together with St. Eustatia and Saba. The three Islands should have been restored at the Treaty of Breda, but the
Dutch, fearing to lose them again, and that they might fall into French hands, left Sir William Stapleton in possession. In 1679 the Dutch Ambassador claimed the restitution of St. Eustatia and Saba, and the Lords decided that Sir William Stapleton should first state to what expense the Islands had put him. The Dutch Ambassador promised to refund the amount, and the two Islands were restored. Tortola is in the same circumstances as these two Islands, but as no restitution has been asked for, no orders to that effect have been given. In the event of restitution, the Dutch should be called upon by the King to refund any expenses. 3¼ pp. Endorsed. Read at Windsor, 28 July '86. Tortola to be restored to the Dutch. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No.10.] |
| [July 26.] |
790. Address of the President and Council of New England to the King. We rejoice that our first address can open with congratulations on your deliverance from the late rebellion. We thank you for your large indulgence to the people in matters of religion; and we are preparing to lay before you such rules and methods as we judge necessary for the good government of the Colony. Signed, Joseph Dudley, William Stoughton, J. Winthrop, Wait Winthrop, Jonathan Tyng, Edward Tyng, Robert Mason, John Pyncheon, Peter Bulkeley, Jno. Usher, Rd. Wharton, John Hinks, Barth. Geddes, Ed. Randolph, secretary. One large page. Endorsed. Presented at Windsor by Mr. Mason, 26 July 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 11, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXI., pp. 301, 302.] |
| July 26. |
791. Governor Dongan to Mons. de Denonville. I have received with great satisfaction your letters of 6th and 20th June (see Nos. 694, 727). I am glad to have a neighbour so different from Mons. de la Barre, your predecessor, who was so furious and hasty, and addicted to great words, as if I had been likely to be frightened by them. The Indians, perhaps, might justly offend him, for, as you well remark, they are not people of the greatest credit and reputation. But I did not amiss in offering sincerely to compose the quarrel, and I went expressly to Albany for the purpose, and yet received no just return from him for it. I doubt not the French King's zeal to propagate the Christian religion, and I assure you my own master has it not less at heart. For my part, I shall take all possible care that the missionary fathers shall not be ill-treated by any Indians over whom I have power, and have sent for one of each nation for that very purpose. The three beastly crimes which you reprove shall be checked severely, and all my endeavours shall be used to suppress their filthy drunkenness and quarrelling, and whatsoever obstructs the growth of the Christian religion. I have heard that before ever the King your master claimed Canada, the Indians as far as the South Sea were under the English dominion, and traded always with Albany, Maryland, and Virginia, but in accordance with your desire, the whole question of territory shall be referred to our masters. The strictest care shall be taken as to runaways from you, but if there be any soldiers deserted, I desire you first to give me assurance that they shall not lose their lives. Pardon me for troubling you
with my private affairs. When my prince called me out of the French service, 25,000 livres were due to me, as was certified by the intendant of Nancy. My stay was so short that I had no time to kiss the King's hand and petition for it—a great misfortune, after my long and faithful service. After leaving Nancy I went to Tangier, and from thence hither, so that I never had time to present my case to the King. May I ask you to espouse it, that I may obtain at least a part of this sum ? The King, I know, is generous, and would not let me suffer. Signed, Tho. Dongan. 2½ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 12.] |
July 27.
Custom
House. |
792. Commissioners of Customs to Lords of Trade and Plantations. We have received draft of a letter from the King to Captain Bee, and see nothing to object to, so far as regards the King's Customs or the Acts of Navigation; but as to the freight for the tobacco to be brought from Bermuda in the manner proposed, which is not under our cognisance, we recommend that the principal merchants be consulted before it is fixed. We learn, however, from Mr. Danely, general manager to the Bermuda trade in London, that the rates in the letter are those which are usual. Signed, Sam. Clarke, Ch. Cheyne, D. North, W. Dickinson, T. Chudleigh, 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 13.] |
July 27.
Virginia. |
793. The Clerk of Assembly of Virginia to William Blathwayt. I send duplicate copies of the journals to the House of Burgesses at the Assembly, held 2 November 1685, and prorogued 12 December 1685. Signed, Robert Beverley. Holograph. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 7 Oct. '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 14.] |
| July 28. Boston. |
794. Edward Randolph to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I have served the writs of Quo Warranto on Rhode Island and Connecticut, though, after a tedious passage of near six months from London, the time of their return is lapsed. However, the Governor of Connecticut has appointed a meeting to be held for the surrender of the charter, unless persuaded by the factious party here to stand a trial just to delay the sending over of a Governor-General. In Rhode Island the Governor and Company have sent an address to the King. Here the new commission for a reconstitution of the Government was received at first with some show of satisfaction and gratitude, but since then the proceedings of the President and Council, whatever they may report in their letters to you, are managed for the encouragement of the Independent faction, utterly discountenancing both the minister and such others who dare openly profess themselves of the Church of England. Having no allowance for our minister here, we raise it by contribution among ourselves. The Form of this Government only is changed, for our Independent ministers flourish, and expect to be advised with on public affairs. I need say no more in proof than that but two of the present Council, Mr. Mason and myself, are of the Church of England, that of over sixty officers of the Militia there are not above half a dozen who are not either Church-members or attenders at their meetings. Consequently Nonconformists from all parts resort hither. Two months ago, one Mr. Mourton, an excom-
municated minister, arrived here from Newington Green. He was welcomed by our President, and designed to be head of the College, but as such steps are too large to be ventured on yet, he is called to be minister at Charlestown, a very good living, and is ready at hand to be president of the College. Two brothers of the name of Bayleyes, great daring Nonconformist ministers from Ireland, have been here two years, and are well provided for. During Monmouth's rebellion, most of the ministers stirred up the people by saying that the time of deliverance was at hand. Not one of them prayed for the King, nor believe his letter reporting the overthrow of the rebels. I suggest, as greatly for the quiet and welfare of the Colony, that no minister from England be allowed to land who has not the licence of the Governor-General, who shall have power to licence and restrain from public preaching such as are already here. You will gather that the presence of a General Governor is much needed to settle distractions and to continue what is newly begun. The delay is prejudicial, and will give the factions facilities for re-assuming the government, which they openly declare that they expect an opportunity to retake. As to my own office, the President takes great liberty to impose upon me in my station. He would not let me seize a vessel in the harbour, nor suffer my officers to go aboard. I am accounted by all to be the sole enemy of the country, having served the King here eleven years, and taken the writs to the other Colonies. Pray recommend me to the Governor-General. I pray for his arrival. Signed, Ed. Randolph. Holograph. 2½ pp. Read at the Committee, Oct. 13, 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 15, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXI., pp. 327–329.] |
| July 28 |
795. Duplicate of the foregoing, similarly endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 16.] |
July 30.
Portsmouth. |
796. Council of New Hampshire to President and Council of New England. We have lately learned of the private removal of our records to Boston. How it happened we know not, but we think it of some concern to ourselves. It seems strange that books, wills, and other records should be exposed to the danger of the sea without any reason. We are not willing to run the risk of another sea adventure, but beg you to keep them safe until they can be safely returned to us. Signed, John Hinks, Walter Barefoot, Richd. Waldern, jun., Robert Elliot, Thomas Graffort, John Gerrish, Henry Green. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 17.] |
| July 30. |
797. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Report of the Committee on the Negro Bill brought up. John Favell ordered to be taken into custody for scandalous reflections on the Lieutenant-Governor concerning the Spanish trade. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 126a, 127.] |
July 30.
Bermuda. |
798. Memorandum of the resolutions of Southampton, Sandis, Smith's, and Devonshire tribes as to raising of money for the repair of fortifications. Sandis and Smith's tribes held their meetings on 27 September 1686. Certified copy. 2½ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 18.] |
| July 31. |
799. The Secretary of Barbados to William Blathwayt. Advising despatch of the quarterly returns of the transactions of Council. Signed, John Whitestone. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 383.] |
