America and West Indies: October 1688

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1899.

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'America and West Indies: October 1688', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687, ed. J W Fortescue( London, 1899), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp596-616 [accessed 29 November 2024].

'America and West Indies: October 1688', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Edited by J W Fortescue( London, 1899), British History Online, accessed November 29, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp596-616.

"America and West Indies: October 1688". Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Ed. J W Fortescue(London, 1899), , British History Online. Web. 29 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp596-616.

October 1688

Oct. 1.
Jamaica.
1,890. Governor the Duke of Albemarle to the Earl of Craven. I have sent a particular account of the Acts passed by the Assembly. I have done my best to fulfil my instructions. I have been so ill that my physicians despaired of my recovery, but it has pleased God to restore me. Since Mr. Lynch's return from Porto Bello his behaviour to me has been most insolent. Had he not been deputed by the King I should have given him deserved correction. His mismanagement has cost the island £100,000. Coxon, the great pirate, and several of his men have surrendered to me. I sent them to Lynch. Signed, Albemarle. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 8 Jan. 1688–9. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 61.]
Oct. 1.
Whitehall.
1,891. The King to the Governor of Bermuda. Granting permission henceforth for Bermudian produce to be laden on any ships that are duly qualified, with the same freedom that is allowed to all other Colonies. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., pp. 179–181.]
Oct. 2. 1,892. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Order for publication of the King's proclamation against drunkenness and debauchery. William Pendleton presented a petition to bring an information against Benjamin Skutt for the use of treasonable words. The Assembly brought up bills for the ordering of apprentices and for the better regulating of outcries in open market, which were held over until to-morrow. Sir Thomas Montgomery's paper against Mr. Skutt, and the latter's answer. The case of William Kelly.
Oct. 3. 1,893. Orders for payment of matrosses and for rebate of duties. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 93–100.]
Oct. 3. 1,894. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Mr. William Joseph produced a commission from Lord Baltimore for himself and six others to be his Lordship's deputies. A letter from Lord Baltimore read, stating that Mr. Joseph is to be the first of his deputies and that he has full instructions. William Joseph was sworn accordingly. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LIV., pp. 184–186.]
Oct. 4.
New York.
1,895. Governor Sir Edmund Andros to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I arrived here on 11 August last, when I made publication of the King's patent in this place, also in East New Jersey on the 15th, and in West New Jersey on the 18th. News of the birth of the Prince of Wales reached us on the 23rd, and though late in the day was solemnised with all demonstrations of joy. I have been at Albany and have seen all the Five Nations. I found them as well disposed as I could expect, and left all well. Since my coming here I have had an account of mischief done by Indians from Canada on the Connecticut river, and lately at Casco bay to the eastward, but as it is imperfect shall not trouble you with it till I return to Boston, whither I am hastening by land. I wrote to Canada by express on my first arrival here, and since on occasion of the mischiefs, but have had no answer. Signed, E. Andros. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 24 Dec. 1688. Printed in New York Documents III., 554. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 62, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., p. 40.]
Oct. 4. 1,896. A collection of papers enclosed with the preceding letter.
1,896. I. Governor Sir Edmund Andros to the Governor of Canada. New York, 11 August 1688. I beg to announce that the King has annexed this province to the Government of New England. I am, by the King's orders, to demand from you the release of his subjects, Indian and other, who were surprised by you in the lawful prosecution of their trade, together with the restitution of their goods and effects. The King has thought fit to own the Five Nations as his subjects, and is resolved to protect them as such, but so as always to give satisfaction for any injury inflicted by them on French subjects, and to restrain them from committing such injury, provided that French subjects extend the like treatment to them. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 20 Dec. 1688. Printed in New York Documents III., 555.
1,896. II. The Governor of Canada to Governor Dongan. Ville Marie, 10–20 August 1688. I have received your letters by Mr. Wessells, both requiring a long reply. I also could find much to say to you on the doings of those wild wolves of Albany and others, but since the latest orders of the King your master you will doubtless be on better terms with us. At present I have only to thank you for your care in withdrawing our prisoners from the Indians, and to assure you that the whole Colony recognises your good offices towards these poor men. I do not doubt of the same care in you to obtain the rest. You tell me that you have ordered the Indians to withdraw all their parties, but I see no prospect of receiving assurances from some tribes that they will not make war on us still. I mention this that you may not be surprised if I have given no orders to our Indians to cease hostilities until I know the sentiments of those tribes which I expect every day. Still I will do my best to maintain peace. As regards the fort of Niagara I shall withdraw the garrison as soon as I see things brought to a settlement. Signed, Le M. de Denonville. Endorsed as the preceding. Printed in New York Documents III., 556.
1,896. III. Report of the River Indians examined by Captain Wendall, 24 August 1688. As to a meeting between English and French Indians in the country between Canada and the north. The two sides were fighting, when the English, finding themselves the weaker, said that their orders were to fight no more. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 20 Dec. 1688.
1,896. IV. Extract of Minutes of Council of New England. 29 August 1688. Resolution of the Council, on the request of Colonel Dongan for audit of his accounts, that it has no power to meddle with such accounts or payments of the late Government. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. V. Extract from the same. 5 September 1688. Order of the Council that if Colonel Dongan will signify what sum is wanted to pay off the disbanded officers and soldiers, they shall be satisfied. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. VI. Clerk of the Council to Governor Dongan. Esopus, 5 September 1688. Informing him of the above order in Council. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. VII. Governor Dongan to [ ?] New York. 8 September 1688. I delivered to you and the Council my accounts of the expenses of the late troubles. When Mr. West gave me the minutes of Council that says you were not to take notice of the expenses incurred before the annexation of New York to New England, he told me that the accounts were among the rest of his papers sent up the river, and must therefore come before you. I am glad that the Council are not such people as he would have represented them to Sir Edmund. I believe everyone of them would be forward to serve King and country for what malice you bear to me (sic). It is very unreasonable that the King's affairs should be delayed. I am sensible of no occasion given unless that I have gone through so long a trouble at so little cost and left everything so well settled. I am going to England; if you have any service there you may command me. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. VIII. Examination of an Indian named Magsigpen, at Albany, 15 September 1688. As to the meeting between French and English Indians, when the English saved a fight by reporting cessation of hostilities. 3 pp. Endorsed as the foregoing. Printed in New York Documents III., 561–563.
1,896. IX. Account of the interview between Sir Edmund Andros and the chief of the Five Nations at Albany. 18–21 September 1688. Addresses of the Indians welcoming the Governor, and of the Governor exhorting them to observe the cessation of hostilities, and to bring in all the French captives, but at the same time to be on their guard. The Indians promised to have no dealings with the French, and producing a captured French child promised to give up the rest of their prisoners. 6½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. Printed in New York Documents III., 557–561.
1,896. X. Sir Edmund Andros to the Governor of Canada. Albany, 19 September 1688. I am sorry to acquaint you that some of our Indians have been murdered near Springfield, and some of our Christians at Northfield. I have seen your letter of 20th ult., in which you avow that you have not restrained your Indians from hostility, but are awaiting assurances from ours. I think this very extraordinary, and I desire that you will forthwith send the murderers to me. I cannot tell you what mischief this has already occasioned in New England, but I think you will be sensible of it, and have therefore ordered no pursuit. I have also bidden the Five Nations to observe the cessation of hostilities, and to give up their French captives. I presume that by this time you have withdrawn your garrison from Niagara. I await your reply as to that and as to all other details comprehended in the truce. Copy. 1½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. Printed in New York Documents III., 557.
1,896. XI. Examination of Derrick Wessells. I was sent to the Governor of Canada to carry the news of the cessation of hostilities, and on the 22nd June delivered it into his own hand at Montreal. I was later sent up by Governor Dongan to Montreal with some prisoners. A few days later the Governor told me and John Rosie that some Indians had left Canada with the Maquas and not returned, and that he hoped that they would do no mischief. The Governor said also that if the truce were broken it could not be helped. I believe that I met one of the Indians afterwards concerned in the murders in Connecticut. Sworn 25 September 1688. 2 pp. Endorsed as the preceding. Printed in New York Documents III., 564.
1,896. XII. Examination of John Rosie. 25 September 1688. In confirmation of the information given in No. XI. Printed in New York Documents III., 563.
1,896. XIII. Information from the Indians, communicated by the magistrates of Schenectady. 29 September 1688. Four Maquas, supposed to be spies, are come from Canada, and more are expected this winter. Some Indians have come in with scalps from New England, and the Governor of Canada is very angry about it. He is now at Montreal. The Indians who committed the murder are fled from Canada. The Ottawas have killed some of the Onandagas, the tribe of the Five Nations most affected to the French. 1½ pp. Printed in New York Documents III., 565.
1,896. XIV. Sir Edmund Andros to the Governor of Canada. New York, 1 October 1688. I have received an account of the murders by Indians in Casco Bay, where they brag of further assistance and encouragement from Canada. I must represent this to you and send you duplicates of my former letters, not doubting that you will prevent your Indians from joining with these malefactors, and refuse shelter to the malefactors themselves. I desire that any prisoners brought to you may be freed, and that those who brought them in may be secured, and that the prisoners brought in from Connecticut may be released and sent home. I hope I shall hear from you shortly for the better maintenance of a good under- standing between the two crowns. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 20 Dec. 1688. Printed in New York Documents III., 566.
1,896. XV. Colonel Dongan to Sir Edmund Andros. New York, 2 October 1688. The King expects, as I learn from England, that all Governments here should bear their own charges out of their established revenues and local taxes. I beg therefore that auditors may be appointed to pass my accounts from 25th March last, also the accounts now before your Excellency and Council (as I hear that Mr. Cortlandt has not yet signed them) before your Excellency leaves this place. The collector will give account of the revenue, Mr. Cortlandt of the penny and a half per pound raised for the support of the Government, and I myself for the £500 sent by Lord Howard of Effingham, deducting out of the whole what will be found by the audit to have been disbursed by me, and paying the rest towards the expenses now lying before the Council. Signed, Tho. Dongan. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. Printed in New York Documents III., 566.
1,896. XVI. Minutes of Council of New England. New York, 2 October 1688. Colonel Dongan's letter (see preceding abstract) read, and consideration deferred. Signed, John West. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. XVII. The same. 3 October 1688. Resolved that the Council has no authority to audit Colonel Dongan's accounts, but will be prepared to consider any obstruction to his former orders caused by the change of Government. Major General Winthrop, Captain Nicholson, and Colonel Bayard to inform Colonel Dongan accordingly. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,896. XVIII. The same. 4 October 1688. The gentlemen appointed to wait on Colonel Dongan reported his answer that he had no particular authority for audit of his accounts, but that this was the practice under himself and his predecessor, and he hoped it would be followed now. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 63, 63I–XVIII.]
Oct. 4.
New York.
1,897. Warrant by the Governor of New England for the survey of the forts at New York and for a report as to the necessary repairs. Signed, E. Andros. Countersigned, John West. 1½ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 64.]
Oct. 5.
Barbados.
1,898. Lieutenant Governor Stede to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I have duly received and shall obey the King's orders to aid Sir Robert Holmes in the suppression of pirates, though, as I have already informed you, there is little prospect of such offenders coming this way, as this is no place to shelter them from justice. They generally go to North America, and it is there that the pirates of the South Seas are said to be gone. Those who captured the sloop in which I had a share went to Newcastle, Pennsylvania, and landed at midday with as much confidence and assurance as the most honest men in the world, without any molestation whatever. Their plunder amounted to from twelve to fifteen thousand pounds. They dismissed the master and sloop at Newcastle, and she is since arrived here with a lost and broken voyage, having taken only 117 pieces-of-eight from the wreck, half of which is the King's. I am a great loser by this adventure, as also by another of the same kind. Others also have lost, but hope to make their losses good by finding new wrecks, of which I believe they know no more than I do. Tobago remains under the command of the captain of the troops. I do not believe that the Duke of Courland's settlement there will ever be successful. The island lies too far from Courland, and is ill supplied with men. I wish the French were as ill able to settle that portion of Tobago which was formerly possessed by the Dutch. I fear they will be always dangerous neighbours to the King's islands, and therefore wish they might be hindered in this design, and that Tobago could be made over entirely to the Duke of Courland.
The Commission appointed to report as to the King's rights in St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Dominica has examined all the people who could give evidence in regard thereto, and I am persuaded that the French claims are founded only on the pretence of an agreement between the English and French Governors during a time of rebellion and usurpation, and of subtle encroachments which were allowed to pass unnoticed by Sir Jonathan Atkins and Sir Richard Dutton. These two took little care of these uninhabited islands, but let everybody do what they pleased there, not considering the prejudice that must accrue to the King's interest. I enclose the report and the depositions, which I hope will be satisfactory. Sir Thomas Montgomery's paper addressed to myself and Council concerning Mr. Skutt has been considered, and we have decided to lay it before you for the King's order. We find little in Sir Thomas's paper but some anger against Mr. Skutt, and some mischievous reflecting upon myself and Council. Mr. Skutt's answer to the paper is enclosed. What uneasiness and debate there is in the island is entirely brought about by a few factius spirits, whom I have endeavoured to suppress. In course of this duty I have been obliged to turn Mr. Willoughby Chamberlayne, a member of Assembly, out of the commission of the peace and of his public employments for beating the King's officers in the execution of their duty, and have bound him over to answer for his conduct at the next Sessions. Nor can I say anything favourable of Sir Timothy Thornhill, who petitions me constantly to be restored to the Council and to all his offices, giving as his reason the one reason which makes me most unwilling to comply, viz., that having been fined he is now cleared, and ought to be restored. I answered only that though I could suspend from the Council, I could not restore the suspended without the King's orders. It will be much for the peace and good order of the island if Sir Timothy continue out of all places of command till he is grown cooler and given signs of being reformed and of keeping the peace, which he daily breaks according to his own violent humour, until at last it has been necessary to bind him over to good behaviour. He boasts much that he expects the King's mandamus for his restoration, and as this might be granted by the King's goodness for want of a true account of him, I make this report. If he be set again in authority he will not fail to do mischief, for there are not wanting men who desire his restoration for their own evil reasons. The people generally despise these debauched and disorderly men. I am obliged again to trouble you with several depositions concerning certain vile, treasonous words sworn by one Kelly against one Mr. John Wilson, a Scotchman and a minister, who has lived long in this island without giving the least suspicion of disloyalty. He has lived inoffensively in his parish with his neighbours without meddling in State affairs or religious controversy. I know nothing of the informer Kelly, who only recently arrived from Antigua in a very poor condition. From his expression and behaviour he appears to be non compos mentis. I examined him in Council as to his depositions, but though he stuck to the words used, he varied much as to the time, and he used many vain expressions that he is a man of great account, who has done the King great service, that he is a lord's son and so forth; which I conceive to be the expressions of a disordered brian. Wilson meanwhile stands bound to answer the charge. I beg the King's orders. I have for a second time celebrated the birth of the Prince of Wales with all magnificence. I enclose my directions to the clergy and laity on this occasion. I beg again for forty long whole culverins for the forts. Signed, Edwyn Stede. 3 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 10 July 1689. Enclosed,
1,898. I. Lieutenant Governor Stede's commission to Thomas Walrond, Francis Bond, John Hallett, Henry Quintyne and Christopher Codrington to ascertain the King's rights to St. Vincent, St. Lucia and Dominica. Dated June 22, 1688. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 11 July 1689.
1,898. II. Report of the Commissioners appointed to enquire into the King's title to St. Vincent, St. Lucia and Dominica. King Charles I. on the 2nd of June in the third year of his reign erected all the Caribbean Islands between the tenth and twentieth degrees of latitude into a province under the name of Carlisle. We find that Lord Carlisle, on the 26th February 1646, leased the whole of these islands to Lord Willoughby of Parham for twenty-one years, that King Charles the Second bought back the whole of the islands from Lord Carlisle's heir, and that the possession was uninterrupted except by a few unauthorised Frenchmen. In 1672 it was resolved to send a sufficient force from Barbados to Dominica to preserve the King's ancient right thereto, which was done. We have also examined the most aged and best knowing inhabitants, and find that Barbados was settled in 1625, St. Lucia in 1635 and 1637 by people from Bermuda, in 1638 from St. Christopher's, and in 1640, 1644 and 1645 from Barbados. Colonel Christopher Codrington also deposes that some few years since Captain James Walker was sent with an armed force to subdue the Indians of St. Vincent, St. Lucia and Dominica, and drove the French from those islands. Signed, Thomas Walrond, Francis Bond, John Hallett, Henry Quintyne. 23 September 1688. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 11 July 1689.
1,898. III. Conveyance of St. Lucia to the English by the Indians. 6 April 1663. Copy. 5 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 10 July 1689.
1,898. IV. Extract from minutes of Council of Barbados. 4 April 1672. Resolution of the Council to send an armed force to Dominica to preserve possession of the island. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 11 July 1689.
1,898. V. Deposition of Richard Buddin. As to an English settlement in St. Lucia in 1665, in which he took part. Sworn 26 June 1688. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. VI. Deposition of George Summers, aged 82. Came to Barbados in 1628. Some forty-eight years since a party of settlers went to St. Lucia, led by one William Lewis, a planter. Sworn 2 July 1688. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. VII. Deposition of Henry Walford. Was one of a party of settlers that went to St. Lucia with Colonel Christopher Carew about twenty-four years ago, when they found some French in the island, and ordered them to leave it. Sworn 5 July 1688. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. VIII. Deposition of Captain Ambrose Rouse. That he went to St. Lucia with Colonel Carew in 1665 as his captain, when Carew re-took possession of the island for the King, and received from the Indians the surrender thereof. Sworn 10 July 1688. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. IX. Deposition of Dorothy Belgrove. That in 1637, when she was living at Bermuda, some of the people started to settle St. Lucia. Some of the settlers lodged in her house. Sworn 10 July 1688. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. X. Deposition of Humphrey Powell. That fifty years since several men were sent from St. Christopher's to settle St. Lucia. Sworn 17 July 1688. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XI. Deposition of Charles Collins. Was one of a party that went to Dominica under Colonel Lewis Morris and visited St. Vincent and St. Lucia also, and negotiated with the Indians for purchase. Sworn 5 September 1688. 2½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XII. Deposition of Christopher Codrington. As to James Walker's expedition for the subdual of St. Vincent, St. Lucia and Dominica. Sworn 30 June 1688. 1½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XIII. Sir Thomas Montgomery to the Governor and Council of Barbados. it can be proved that Mr. Skutt denied his hand upon a commission obtained by himself from the Court of Common Pleas. Also Mr. Skutt received from London a list of the aldermen put out by the King and of those put in by him. He called the latter the greatest rogues living, and said that the King risked his Crown by putting them in power. I bring these matters forward and remind you of Pendleton's information not from malice towards Skutt but from my duty to the King. Signed, Tho. Montgomery. 9 August 1688. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XIV. Benjamin Skutt's answer to the foregoing paper. I was not acquainted with Sir Thomas Montgomery before I arrived in the island, but I had intended to have employed him as the lawyer for the Royal African Company. But seeing him lay himself out to thwart the Government and oppose the laws, I entrusted the business to others, which infinitely incensed him, and made him avowedly my implacable enemy. Pendleton, after attempting my life, was kindly received by Sir Thomas, and soon after swore an information against me, but I am not afraid as to my innocence. Sir Thomas accuses me of denying my hand on a commission obtained from the Court of Common Pleas. Fortunately gentlemen were present at the time, whose depositions I produce. Then as to what I said of the aldermen of London. I do receive a list as he says, and it is very probable that I called those who were turned out loyal, honest men. They were all my friends and acquaintances. But I never called the rest rogues, for they, too, are most of them my friends, and I never presumed to censure the action of the King. If I chose to retort with every idle word that Sir Thomas has spoken I should have a large field. Signed, Ben. Skutt. 6 October 1688. 3 pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XV. Deposition of William Harding. In confirmation of Skutt's defence of himself in the matter of his signature to the commission from the Court of Common Pleas. Sworn 8 October 1688. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XVI. Extract from minutes of Council of Barbados. 2 October 1688. Sir Thomas Montgomery's accusation against Mr. Skutt was read and Mr. Skutt's reply. Resolved that both be sent to the Lords of Trade and Plantations. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XVII. Extract from minutes of Council of Barbados. 8 August 1688. Ordering that John Langley, unjustly committed by Sir Thomas Montgomery, be released. 3 pp.
1,898. XVIII. Similar extract. 9 August 1688. As to misbehaviour of Sir Thomas Montgomery in Court, and an unjust and unture charge brought by him against the deputy secretary. 2 pp.
1,898. XIX. Deposition of William Domelawe. As to insulting words spoken by Sir Thomas Montgomery to Benjamin Skutt, the latter having questioned Sir Thomas's statement that the nobility of Scotland had better estates than that of England. Sworn 14 August 1688. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 10 July 1689.
1,898. XX. Deposition of Jonathan Hutchinson. To same effect as the preceding. Sworn 20 August 1688. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 11 July 1689.
1,898. XXI. Extract from minutes of Council of Barbados. 2 October 1688. The Council had before it the information of William Kelly against John Wilson for using treasonable words. Ordered that Wilson enter into recognizances to appear and take his trial, and that the information, with the depositions in support of it, be sent to the Lords of Trade and Plantations. 2 pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXII. Examination of John Wilson. Testifying to an assault by William Kelly on his servant, and abusive language used by him to himself. 2½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXIII. Deposition of William Kelly. That he heard John Wilson say he hoped to see the confusion of all Papists, and Monmouth to regin King. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXIV. Deposition of Thomas Ebourne. As to the assault committed on him by William Kelly. 1½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXV. Deposition of Michael Terrill. That William Kelly repeated to him the words alleged to have been spoken by Wilson. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXVI. Deposition of Alexander Croighton. As to mad words and behaviour of William Kelly. ½ p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXVII. Deposition of Daniel Helmes. In confirmation of the preceding. 1½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXVIII. Deposition of Daniel Collahan. As to the assault committed by Kelly and his abusive language to Wilson. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXIX. Deposition of James Gamble. As to mad behaviour of William Kelly. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXX. Deposition of Thomas Costillyon. As to the same. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXXI. Declaration of Henry Quintyne. As to the same, and as to the confused charge which he brought against Wilson. 1½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
1,898. XXXII. Proclamation of the Deputy-Governor of Barbados appointing Sunday 16 September as a day of thanks-giving for the birth of the Prince of Wales. Dated 6 September 1688. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 10 July 1689. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 65, 65I.–XXXII., and (letter and Nos. I.–XII. only), Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 33–63.]
Oct. 5.
Bermuda.
1,899. Henry Hordesnell to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I have, by searching a man from the wreck, recovered over thirteen pounds weight of treasure for the King. It was shipped on board Captain Robinson. I put the man on his oath, and found that he had secreted a thousand pieces-of-eight in the Bohemia [? Bahama] Islands. Considering the dangers of pirates and the loss on the cleaning of the money, which was rusty, I compounded for four hundred and fifteen pieces-of-eight, white money, which I hope will be approved. I have another man, one Samuel Harvey, in custody, who brought and entered five hundred pounds weight of silver before I came, but agreed to give the Governor thirty-four pounds, and divided the rest with his men. I recovered the tenths from him some time ago, but no more. He is an ill and refractory person, but he shall give security for the dues before I release him. Signed, H. Hordesnell. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 24 Dec. 88. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 66, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., pp. 196–198.]
Oct. 5. 1,900. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Orders respecting the day of thanksgiving for the birth of the Prince of Wales. Letter from the Lords of Trade as to the passing of an Act in conjunction with Virginia for prohibiting the export of bulk tobacco. Letter from Lord Baltimore giving instructions for all effort to be used to pass such an Act. An Assembly ordered for 12 November.
Oct. 6. Letter from Lord Baltimore in favour of John Woodcock, an intending settler. Memorandum. On 9 October Mr. Layfield, the King's comptroller, asked for an extra officer to enter and clear ships. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LIV., pp. 186–190.]
Oct. 8.
New York.
1,901. Edward Randolph to Lords of Trade and Plantations. In April Sir Edmund Andros visited the forts and plantations all along the sea side, and on the great rivers from Piscataqua to Penobscot, eastward. He ordered the chiefs of the Indians in those parts to attend him, which they did, and bade them call back their young men, and not suffer them to run to the French, to live quietly with their English neighbours, and, if they were not able to defend themselves, to come and live in English towns. He left that country in great peace. On returning to Boston he received the King's commission annexing New York and the Jerseys to New England, wherefore he went to New York, accompanied by several of the Council, and arrived there on the 11th of September, being met by a regiment of foot and a troop of horse from that place. His commission having been read he received and cancelled in Council the seal of the late Government and issued a proclamation continuing the revenue and confirming all public officers in their posts. He then proceeded to the Jerseys, where he did the like. The people shewed great satisfaction at being under the King's immediate Government. On the 29th Colonel Dongan sent to the Council an account of £6,482 for money laid out in the late expedition to Albany, desiring it to be audited and passed, that the money might be paid to him to defray his necessary expenses. The Council resolved that they had no power to inspect his accounts, nor to appoint an auditor to do so, but as several officers and soldiers, since disbanded, had applied to Colonel Dongan for their pay, the Council asked him for an account of money due to them, undertaking to satisfy them speedily. Colonel Dongan, however, has not thought fit to comply. but to the last day of the Governor's stay in New York pressed for the accounts to be audited and passed.
On reading certain correspondence with Colonel Dongan it appeared that all was not well with the Five Nations, whereupon it was thought fit that the Governor should go to Albany. About fifty soldiers went with him, and guns and stores were embarked from the fort. The Governor and several of the Council embarked on the 30th August for Albany, where the chiefs of Five Nations were assembled to welcome him. They complained of many hardships, some by the French in time of peace, and prayed to be redressed. The Governor told them there was a cessation of arms, and that they must carry themselves friendly to the French; he bade them give up their French captives and promised to take care of them. They at once gave up a French child, ten months their prisoner, and promised to send the rest as soon as possible. Several Indians from both sides of the Hudson came to the Governor at Albany, and others at Kingston, higher up the river. Here Colonel Mason, a member of Council and a loyal gentleman, died and was buried. The Governor told the Indians to behave peaceably towards the Christians their neighbours, invited such of them as were married and gone elsewhere to return with their families and promised them land in convenient places if they required it. During this progress news came of the murder of five of the King's English subjects near springfield, and soon after of six Christians murdered at Northfield by eleven Indians belonging to the French, and since the transmission of the Treaty of Neutrality to Colonel Dongan. The Governor has written to the Governor of Canada asking for the eleven murderers to be sent to him. On the day after the Governor arrived at New york from Albany he was advised that men were raised at Boston without his order and sent to Casco Bay, against Indians who had committed disorders in those parts. He therefore travels overland to Boston, intending to visit Northfield, Springfield, and other towns on the way, in order to prevent a second Indian war. Signed, Ed. Randolph. Holograph. 2½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 24 Dec. 1688. Printed in New York Documents III., 567–569. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 67, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 37–39.]
Oct. 9. 1,902. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Nevis. The Governor proposed an address of thanks to the King respecting the West Indian Company, and certain improvements in the forti- fications. The address to the King. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 180–183, and pp. 225, 226.]
Oct. 12. 1,903. Petition of Colonel Hender Molesworth to the King. On my desiring to leave Jamaica on the arrival of the Duke of Albemarle, the Duke required that I should enter into recognizances of £100,000 before I could go, in order to answer the King's claims to treasure brought in from the wreck at Hispaniola. It was also made a condition that on arrival I should surrender myself to a Secretary of State, and remit a certificate from the King releasing the Duke from all claims for damages on account of that treasurer. Though the condition was hard, I submitted to it. While Governor I had, for want of orders for guidance, taken only a tenth of the treasure for the King, but this was seized by the Duke of Albemarle's orders. As your Majesty approves my discharge of my duties as Governor I beg release from my recognizance. 1 p. Annexed.
1,903. I. Copy of the bond given by Colonel Molesworth. 2 pp. Endorsed. Presented and read with his petition to the King and Council. 12 Oct. 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 68, 68I.]
Oct. 12. 1,904. Copy of the foregoing petition. Endorsed. Read in Council 12 Oct. 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 69.]
Oct. 12.
Whitehall.
1,905. Order of the King in Council. That Colonel Hender Molesworth's bond be vacated, and that the conditions be cancelled, according to this petition. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 70.]
Oct. 12. 1,906. Order of the King in Council. Referring the petition of Charles Sadler to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed, John Nicholas. Annexed,
1,906. I. Petition of Charles Sadler to the King and Lords of Trade. The Provost Marshal General appointed Mr. Smith Kelly his deputy, and in case of Kelly's death or absence, myself. The Duke of Albemarle removed Mr. Bernard from being Chief Justice of the island and put in Mr. Elletson in his place, at which time or just before, Kelly had levied or had in his hands to levy several executions, amounting to over £4,800, against Elletson, Colonel Needham one of his assistants, Captain Parnaby his father-in-law, John Elletson his cousin, and Mr. Waite; of whom Waite and Parnaby were actually in prison. Kelly was suspended, and Waite made Provost Marshal, who let Parnaby out of prison. I asked to succeed Kelly, according to my deputation, but the Duke, instead of allowing it, required security of myself in £500 and two sureties in £250 each to appear next Council-day, when he required of me further security in £1,000 and two sureties in £500 not to quit the island within twelve months without his leave. The Chief Justice, Waite, parnaby, and others, well knowing that if I had been admitted Provost Marshal I should have done my duty and executed all the processes against them, prevented my admission to the office, and one Edward Moulder, a disorderly, encumbered man, swore that I had said that the Chief Justice and Sir Henry Morgan had razed or interlined a record of the Court. For using these words, which I never spoke, I was indicted; a bill was found by a grand jury returned by Waite; I was found guilty, and fined £300, for which same I am now a prisoner, and am likely to remain so. I am told that the indictment does not lie. I beg that the fine may be remitted, and the proceedings cancelled, and that I may be admitted to my office. The whole, 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 71, 71I.]
Oct. 13. 1,907. Minutes of Council of Maryland. Lord Baltimore's commission to Charles Carroll to be Attorney-General read. Order for the condemned negroes who were pardoned on receipt of the news of the birth of the Prince of Wales to be returned to their masters. Order for new commissions of the peace for Cecil's and St. Marie's Counties. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LIV., pp. 190–192.]
Oct. 13–23.
Quebec.
1,908. The Governor of Canada to Sir Edmund Andros. I have received your letters of 21 August, 8 and 29 September. In reply to the first I am glad to have you for my neighbour, and as regards the truce, as we are unable to agree as to the differences lately created by Mr. Dongan, I gladly refer the decision to our masters. So it is not for me to determine or agree whether the Five Nations are subjects of your master or mine, or of neither. You will have learned from my letters to Governor Dongan that the Iroquois had agreed to send me deputies from the Five Nations this summer, to ratify the peace, and, at the same time, agree to call a general assembly of all our Indians and their allies for the purpose of concluding a general and final peace. These deputies were to arrive soon enough to enable me to fix the place of rendezvous. I know that all the Iroquois were on the point of coming, but were prevented. It is true that you tell me that you will scrupulously observe the treaty of truce, and avoid every occasion of misunderstanding, and that you have bidden the Iroquois to observe the truce and give up their French prisoners; but knowing how you humour these savages you will not be surprised if I doubt their obedience to your orders unless they come themselves to assure me of it. You cannot therefore be astonished that, as I told Governor Dongan, I have given no orders to the remoter Indians to cease hostilities, for the Iroquois know well that they were pledged to come to me soon enough to enable messengers to be sent to Michillimackinac before the winter, to apprise the tribes of the rendezvous for the settlement of the general peace, and that I was not to move until they came and told me that the peace was accepted by all the Five Nations.
Such is the state of the case; but to show my good will and desire of a good understanding, I have sent to forbid all the tribes within reach to commit hostilities, and bid them think of nothing but their hunting. I would do more, but the season is far advanced, and your letters reached me too late for orders to be sent to the remoter tribes. Whatever my efforts no canoe could travel more than half way before the ice comes, but I shall send a canoe in the early spring, if I can be assured this winter that the Iroquois will consent to the general peace which is so necessary for the union of the two colonies, and for the progress of the Gospel. Still as I could not inform our allies now, I can not be answerable that they may not commit some hostile act during the winter. To avoid this the Iroquois should be careful not to wander too far while hunting, and to be on their guard until I can send word to our allies. The news that you give me in your letter of the 29th is very unpleasant; but what can I do, for all the rivers on the way will be frozen up within a fortnight? Believe me that I have the greatest respect for your king, and every desire to maintain good relations with you. You will believe that the accusations against me of giving orders to these Indians and of consenting to these murders are false. Mr. Wessells will have told you of my anxiety about two parties which had gone out against some raiding savages sent by Colonel Dongan. These parties had not returned when Mr. Wessels me the prisoners from Colonel Dongan. You know that I cannot doubt that these raiders were sent by Colonel Dongan. I have too many proofs, and the fact is too well known for you to be ignorant of it. The very ropes to bind their prisoners, as well as their arms, were supplied by him. As regards the Iroquois prisoners which I sent to France, I have promised the Iroquois that I shall ask them back, and you will readily believe that for your sake I shall do my best to obtain this favour from the King. I doubt not that you will do your best to recover the French prisoners from the Iroquois. I have been surprised at the violence shewn to M. St. Castine at Pentagouet. If there were any doubt as to the possession of that place I should have thought it were better referred to our masters. I hope you will give satisfaction to Mons. de Menevall, Governor of Acadia. A pirate, who took in men and provisions at Rhode Island, has lately plundered Chedabuctou and Canso in Acadia, took away a ship loaded with our goods, and sold them at Boston and elsewhere. I am sure you will give the necessary orders for justice to be done to us. Some rascally Frenchmen mutinied at the same time, robbed their masters, and took refuge in your territory. If ever such rogues come to me from your country I shall gladly restore them, and I hope you will do the like. To show my good will I have sent a canoe from Montreal to the Ottawas. Signed, Le M. de Denonville. French. 5½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 15 Jan. 1688–9 from Sir E. Andros. Printed in New York Documents (translation) III., 569–571. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 72.]
Oct. 16. 1,909. Order for the ship Richard, William Harris master, to be stopped for the king's despatches to New England. Signed, Rd. Wharton. Scrap. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 73.]
Oct. 16.
Whitehall.
1,910. The King to the Governor of Barbados. An invasion is preparing in Holland for the conquest of our Kingdom on some false pretences relating to liberty, property and religion. Though we have had notice of this for some time, we have always declined any foreign succours, preferring to rely on the loyalty of our subjects. We therefore call upon our subjects to unite for defence of us and of their native country. Though the design has been carried on with all possible secrecy, we are not unaware of it, and have made our preparations. All this you will announce to the Colony under your command, and you will take care that on the approach of any enemy the militia shall be ready to repel invasion, and that all trading vessels shall be warned lest they fall into the enemy's hands. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C. p. 34, and Vol. VIII., pp. 1–3.]
The same to the Governor of Jamaica. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXII., pp. 135–139.]
The same to the Governor of the Leeward Islands. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVII., pp. 385–387.]
The same to the Governor of Bermuda. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., pp. 183–188.]
The same to the Governor of New England. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 27–29.]
The same to the Governor of Virginia. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 229–232.]
Oct. 16. 1,911. Earl of Sunderland to Lord Howard of Effingham. You will prosecute the three pirates mentioned in your letter of August 19th (see No. 1867) according to law, at such time and in such manner as Sir Robert Holmes shall appoint. If Sir Robert give any assurance of the royal pardon before or after the trial you will discharge them. The goods taken from these pirates you will deliver to Sir Robert Holmes. Signed, Sunderland. P. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIII., p. 228.]
Oct. 17. 1,912. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Draft of an order for discharging Colonel Molesworth from his bond of £100,000 read and approved.
Captain Nicholson's letter of 31 August read (see No. 1877).
Memorandum of documents sent and received. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 183–188.]
Oct. 17. 1,913. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Ordering the Attorney General to examine the petitions of Increase Mather and others (see Nos. 1860, 1878), compare them with the Commission and instructions to the Governor of New England and report. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 76, 77.]
Oct. 18. 1,914. Minutes of Council of Virginia. John Armestead sworn of the Council. The Governor reported that he had removed Major Charles Scarburgh from the commission of the peace for saying that the King would wear out the Church of England. Ordered that Major Scarburgh appear before the Council to answer for his words. Order cancelling the alterations made on 26 April, 1686, in the Courts of Rappahannock and New Kent. Order that keepers of ferries shall transport messengers sent on the King's service free of charge. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 301–307.]
Oct. 19.
Boston.
1,915. Edward Randolph to John Povey of the Plantation Office, Whitehall. Hearing how furiously Mr. Mather and his friends now at Whitehall drive on, sparing none in this government, I send you such papers as I have by me by which you may see the qualities and especially the loyalty of the men. No. 1 is a copy of Mr. Rosse's letter to me enclosing No. 2, being a copy of Mather's letter to a minister at Amsterdam. Mather has done all he can to fix the authorship of that paper on me, and besides his public discourses against me in all companies here he thinks he has sufficiently proved it and vindicated himself by his letter to Mr. Dudley, No. 3, which is full of his Christian frame and temper and abounds as much in charitable expressions as does his other letter in loyalty. Now though he has thus with his "Bellarmine, thou liest," made me to be the author of that libellous paper, yet I can shew the contrary by several passages therein. The King's desiring their charter was, they say, like Ahab's requiring Naboth's vineyard. These were the very words spoken publicly by him in a full assembly at the town house in Boston, when all the freemen were met to advise about a surrender of the charter. I have a crowd of witnesses to prove it, and Mr. Wharton, then of another kidney, was present, and left the meeting in a great heat on hearing such expressions. If any spark of honesty rests in a man who opposes all government he cannot deny that he was present and heard Mather make that discourse. I send you Nos. 4 and 5, copies of two of Mather's letters to Amsterdam, the originals being with me, to prove his correspondence with persons of whom I knew nothing till I had a copy of the former letter. As a further confirmation of Mather's antimonarchical principles I refer you to the book called "The Case of the Massachusetts Charter," written by Mather and Moody, a copy of which I shall shortly transmit to you. I should ask for no greater favour than to be admitted to discuss the malicious principles of the party who now cry out oppression, whereas by all their laws and practices there never yet was a people heard of so tyrannical and arbitrary. The King upon the repeated complaints of his persecuted subjects of imprisoning, whipping, banishments and amercements has remedied this by a new Commission of Government and by taking the country into his own immediate protection. And now that the Sanhedrim is put out of its magisterial regiment of affairs, both civil, ecclesiastical and military, they are uneasy. As to Mr. Nowell, I refer you to his printed sermon called Abraham in Arms. If those men's principles are the least demonstration of loyalty, I desire to be accounted still a dissenter. From such good Lord deliver us. Signed, Ed. Randolph. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 1 Dec., 1688. Enclosed,
1,915. I. Copy of a brief note from George Ross to Edward Randolph transmitting a letter that fell accidentally into his hands at Amsterdam. Dated, June 6. Scrap. Endorsed. No. 1.
1,915. II. Increase Mather to Mr. English at Amsterdam. Boston, 3 December, 1683. Thank you for your letter telling me how you and your friends have been wrongfully abused in England. I am glad that Mr. Ferguson has gone to your side of the water where their malice cannot reach him. We have heard of the great suffering of the servants of the Lord. You say the intention is to root out the Word of God from among us, but the righteous shall see this and fear and shall laugh them to scorn. I am well assured of the happiness of that good friend to God's cause, Lord Shaftesbury, of whose death you wrote to me. If they could they would certainly have cut him off, for they can now move the law as they please. "Corrupt are they, etc." Never was any age so far gone in laboring after their own lusts and pleasures, from the King that sitteth on the throne to the beggar. It was a great grief to me to hear the death of that good Lord Russell, and the barbarous murder of Lord Essex in the Tower. We see with half an eye which way they intend to drive poor England. Pray send me the following books:—The New Covenant of Scotland, Caryll on Job, and Mr. Owen's last works, with some of the Geneva prints, "that I may collect of all to sweeten the milk to the palate of these good Christians." I am glad to hear that the Lord hath raised a defender for his people in Hungary, and I am certainly of opinion that the Lord's work will be done by those heathens and the whole of Babylon shall fall.
As to affairs here, Randolph arrived in the same week as our agents with a summons against our charter. Next day the richest part of the town was burnt by a sad fire, as we believe by his means. He left the town a day or two later, or he would certainly have perished at the hands of some of the tumultuous sufferers. A general Court has been sitting for the last fortnight. The Governor and several of our magistrates, not regarding their oath, have voted to surrender the charter; but the men who fear God are for keeping our privileges, which is my opinion also; for why should we surrender them as Naboth's vineyard to Ahab? I hope we shall be able to maintain them by action at law, for in England money will do much. Randolph has been a mortal enemy to our country, and most people say that it would never have come to this but for him. It has cost us a deal of money, but we have good friends in England who will contribute. God will certain avenge the blood of his saints. Here follows a rhapsody of Scriptural terts. 3½ pp. Endorsed. No. 2. Recd. from Mr. Randolph, 1 Dec., 1688.
1,915. III. Increase Mather to Joseph Dudley. Boston, 10 Nov., 1684. Thank you for a sight of a forged letter of mine of pretended date, 3 December, 1683. It represents me as friendly towards Lord Shaftesbury, which I never was, and the expressions as to Lord Russell are also forgeries. So also as to the books, I have Caryll on Job, and can buy Dr. Owen's works in Boston, so why should I send to Amsterdam for them? The statements about Hungary are equally absurd. The forgery is easily proved by several passages. I believe Randolph himself forged the letter. There is so much about him in it as to make me suspect him to be the author, and he is said to have a notable art in imitating hands. It is good that all mankind should be conviced that he is a knave. But I am not the first Nonconformist minister who has suffered this. 3 pp. Endorsed. No. 3. Recd. from Mr. Randolph, 1 Dec., 1688.
1,915. IV. Increase Mather to Thomas Gouge at Amsterdam. Boston, Nov. 21, 1683. We are threatened with the loss of our Charter and all our privileges; the coining of money and keeping but fourteen instead of twenty magistrates are the pretext. 1 pp. Endorsed. Nos. 4, 5. Recd. from Mr. Randolph, 1 Dec., 1688.
1,915. V. The same to Abraham Kirk. Nov. 20, 1683. Asking him to send some books. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 73, 73I.–V.]
Oct. 19. 1,916. Minutes of Council of Maryland. On the complaint of the chief of the Nanticokes of ill-treatment of Indians by English, orders were sent to the Commissioners of Dorchester county to put a stop to such proceedings.
Col. Edward Pye sworn a Deputy-Governor. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LIV., pp. 192, 193.]
Oct. 20.
Boston.
1,917. Proclamation of Sir Edmund Andros. Commanding all of the King's subjects lately taken by Indians to be released, and all Indians concerned in the murder of any to surrender. Printed sheet. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 15 Jan., 1688–9.
Duplicate of the foregoing. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 74, 75.]
Oct. 22.
Bermuda.
1,918. Governor Sir Robert Robinson to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I enclose an account of the King's Lands, how they are raised and what the King's officers have allowed to them. I beg instructions as to the Glebe and Crown-lands. The memorial from Francis Burghill mentioned in your letter was not enclosed. The King's slaves are difficult to get at, their pretended masters standing stiffly by the law. Perhaps the late Company could give you an account of them. An Act has been passed that all free negroes shall depart this country in six months or become the King's slaves. The time is long expired, but the people evade their own Act. I have sent a warrant to bring in thirty of these slaves, who are worth twenty pounds a head. As to the slaves allowed to me, the inclosed shows their number, but we have not half of them. I have been for several months at death's door, and am scarcely recovered. Pray put a favourable construction on this brief account. Signed, Robt. Robinson. 1 p. Enclosed,
1,918. I. Rents of the King's lands in Bermuda. Total, £143 0s. 0d. Slaves allowed to the King's officers, 52, of which 24 to the Governor. Large sheet. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 76, 76I., and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., p. 284.]
Oct. 22. 1,919. Address of the inhabitants of the hundreds of St. Clements and Choptico in St. Mary's county, Maryland, to the King, congratulating him on the birth of the Prince of Wales. "We have at this distance to our greatest comfort and felicity beheld and admired your Majesty like the sun in the firmament, not only dispersing all malicious and threatening clouds of disloyalty, but also making us and our posterity happy by the prolific virtues." 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 77.]
[Oct.] 1,920. Petition of Sir Robert Robinson to the King. For recall, owning to his continuous sickness. 1 p. Inscribed. Recd. Oct., 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 78.]
[Oct. 26.] 1,921. Petition of Richard Cony to the King. When Governor of Bermuda I made many enemies by endeavouring to carry out the royal instructions as to slaves, Crown lands and revenues, and suffered many affronts. I am quite undone and improverished by the employment, and beg your commission to succeed Sir Robert Robinson as Governor of Bermuda. 1 p. Annexed,
1,921. I. Certificate of five principal traders to Bermuda that Governor Cony was diligent in advancing the King's revenues and collecting his debts; on a request that he may be sent back as Governor. 16 October, 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 79, 79I.]
[Oct. 26.] 1,922. Duplicate of the foregoing. Endorsed. Read in Council 26 October, 1688. Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., Nos. 80, 80I.]
Oct. 26.
Whitehall.
1,923. Order of the King in Council. That as Sir Robert Robinson is anxious to return to England, Richard Cony be appointed to succeed him as Governor of Bermuda, and that his commission and instructions be prepared accordingly. Signed, John Nicholas. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 30 Oct., 1688. [Col. Papers, Vol. LXIII., No. 81.]
Oct. 30. 1,924. Minutes of Council of Barbados. On the request of the Assembly Benjamin Skutt was joined to two members of Assembly to inspect the cage in St. Michael's appointed to keep runaway negroes in. The Lieutenant-Governor reported that he had inspected the fortifications and found them in excellent order. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 100, 101.]