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| Dec. 21. |
523. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. Petition from the agents of Massachusetts, received and read (see No. 525). The merchants of Newfoundland attending were directed to agree among themselves as to certain points concerning the convoys and to bring their decision in writing. The case of Mons. de la Forest and the Hudson's Bay Company was then heard, when the Company again professed that they knew nothing of the Articles of Capitulation, and produced two of their captains, who testified that they had protested against them. They also produced evidence that Mons. d'Iberville had violated the capitulation of 1694; against which Mons. de la Forest produced witnesses to the contrary, who being examined on particular heads would not answer directly. Mons. de la Forest was ordered to give a valuation of the goods referred to by him. [Board of Trade. Journal, 9. pp. 292–299.] |
| Dec. 21. |
524. A collection of documents brought forward in the case of Mons. de la Forest's complaint against the Hudson's Bay Company. |
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524. I. Copy of the instructions given to Captain William Allen for his voyage to Hudson's Bay. 3 pp. Endorsed, Recd., read 21 Dec. 1696. |
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524. II. Articles of Capitulation for the surrender of Fort York to Mons. d'Iberville. 4/14 October, 1694. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. III. Deposition of Isaac Woods, surgeon of York Fort, when it was attacked by the French in October, 1694. To the effect that the French violated the capitulation of 1694, by driving several of the garrison into the woods, where they were driven to such extremity that
they were obliged to eat foxes and foul birds. Deponent himself was obliged to sell some of his instruments for subsistence, though the articles stipulated that the English should be fed like the French. The French officers treated the English shamefully, causing the death of one sick man. The French surgeon robbed deponent of the whole of his instruments. One French officer delivered one of the English to the Indians and looked on while they put fire to his feet and red-hot tobacco-pipes to his fingers; and deponent dressed this man's fingers for him. Further, deponent and fourteen more prisoners were kept under hatches on board ship for a whole month when embarked for France. In Rochelle they were put in the common gaol, and three of the men died of ill-usage in France 3¼ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. IV. Deposition of William Arnold. Confirming the above statement, and adding that five of the English were harnessed by the French to sleds and forced to draw them through deep snow, in the teeth of a wind so bitter that after every few steps they were obliged to turn and rub their faces lest they should be frost-bitten. Deponent himself was savagely beaten by a French officer, and has not yet recovered the ill-treatment that he received from the French. Deponent confirms the story of the torture of one Englishman by Indians in the presence of a French officer, their ill-treatment in France, and the death of several through ill-usage. 2½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. V. Deposition of James Hubbald, another of the garrison of York Fort who was captured by the French. Confirming the stories in Nos. III. and IV. 3½ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. VI. Deposition of John Russell, another of the captured garrison of York Fort. Confirming the previous depositions. 2¼ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. VII. Deposition of James Griffen, another of the captured garrison of York Fort. To the same effect; adding that the English Governor, Mr. Walsh, declared himself weary of the complaints of the English and went to Port Nelson without speaking any more for them. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. VIII. Deposition of Thomas Walsh, Governor of York Fort, and three others. To the effect that, in their belief, Mons. D'Iberville faithfully observed the capitulation of 1694. Deponents while in France were always kindly and civilly used. Copy. 1¼ pp. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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524. IX. Deposition of Thomas Walsh. Denying categorically all the statements of previous witnesses as to the ill-treatment of this garrison by the French. 2 pp. Endorsed as the preceding. [Board of Trade. Hudson's Bay, 2. Nos. 3 I.–IX.] |
| Dec. 21. |
525. Petition of the Agents of New England to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Nearly two years ago, by order of the King and Council, we laid before the Committee of Trade and Plantations a memorial of the state of Massachusetts, which has since been referred to you. Therein among other things we represented how great would be the injury to the Colony if such a patent of incorporation as that of Sir Matthew Dudley and Company were passed. A further representation of the sad state of the Colony has also been lately laid before you. We therefore beg that no such patent of incorporation may be passed at least until the return of the Commissioners appointed to report as to naval stores in New England, and that meanwhile you will take the said conditions of the Colony and the means of remedying the same into your serious consideration. Signed. Hen. Ashurst, Con. Phipps. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 21 Dec. 1696. [Board of Trade. New England, 8. No. 51.] |
Dec. 21.
Albany. |
526. Governor Fletcher to the Agents for New York. My disordered head for my late loss has occasioned a wrong calculation; but my desire is that these Colonies may give such assistance that I may be enabled to keep a constant body of five hundred men here, including the King's three companies as three hundred of the number. By this I may garrison Canestagione and the Half Moon, which will be a cover to all our farms, prevent the inroads of skulking parties, and be a security to Connecticut and to our little towns down to the river. Signed, Ben. Fletcher. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 6th. Read 7th July, 1697. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. No. 83; and 52. p. 179.] |
| Dec. 22. |
527. List of the furs and goods delivered by Governor de la Forest to Captain Allen on the surrender of Fort Bourbon, Hudson's Bay, and not returned. Total value, £14,430. Signed, Gabriel de la Forest. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 23 Dec. 1696. [Board of Trade. Hudson's Bay, 2. No. 4; and 3. pp. 20–21.] |
| [Dec. 23.] |
528. Copies of John Murrey's commission from the Queen to be Commissary to the expedition to Hispaniola, dated 16 October, 1694, and of Samuel Lewis's Commission from Sir William Beeston to succeed him, dated 1 Oct. 1695. 2 pp. Endorsed, Presented to the Board by Mr. Benjamin Way. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 8. No. 39; and 56. pp. 64–66.] |
Dec. 23.
London. |
529. Certain traders to Newfoundland to the Council of Trade and Plantations. As to the convoy for the salt-ships designed next year for Newfoundland, we beg that the place of rendezvous for the South Channel ships may not be Kinsale, but we would ask for a convoy on to Lisbon for the London, Poole, Weymouth, Dartmouth and Plymouth ships, for, having consulted some masters of ships, we find that our going to Kinsale may be the overthrow of our voyages, for that, when we are ready, we can sail to Lisbon with winds that will not carry us to Kinsale and may make the voyages as soon. We beg that this convoy may sail by the 20th of January if the wind permit. We ask that the Bristol convoy may see the ships of the North Channel to Lisbon, for, if they should put into Kinsale, it will in all probability ruin our voyages, and that the convoy may
sail with the first fair wind after the 15th of January next from Milford, where we desire the rendezvous. We beg also that our ships may not be stopped by any embargo, that our men may be free from the press, and that the convoy appointed for the said trade may not stay for any other ship. Signed, Simon Cole, Solomon Merrett, Wm. Hamond, Abraham Beake. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 23 Dec. 1696. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 3. No. 18; and 25. pp. 56–57.] |
Dec. 23.
Whitehall. |
530. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Trumbull. Since your being with us we have further considered the business of Newfoundland, and have been attended by merchants concerned in all the ports using that fishery, who seem very positive in their desires contained in the enclosed paper (see preceding abstract). We find them also under very great discouragements by the return of the Oxford and Dreadnought, that could not reach Newfoundland, which puts them under apprehensions of having lost St. John's also. So that unless they find their satisfaction in the orders that shall be now given and in the further care that is to be taken, we have reason to look upon that trade, and Newfoundland itself, as lost for the ensuing year. The merchants desire as speedy a resolution as may be. Signed, William Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Newfoundland, 25. p. 55.] |
| Dec. 23. |
531. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. The Hudson's Bay Company asked for copies of documents and for further time to complete their defence against Mons. de la Forest, which was granted. The Newfoundland merchants brought in a paper (see No. 529), and reported that there was too much reason to fear that the French had taken St. John's and that they would require five, if not six, more ships. The question of soldiers raised the question of a Governor; and the merchants undertook to draw up a paper on the whole matter. The New York agents asking for copies of Mr. Livingston's complaints against Governor Fletcher, the Board ordered all the papers concerning the matter to be laid before them to-morrow. Application was made for the confirmation of Samuel Lewis as Commissary-General in Jamaica. The gentlemen interested in copper-mines and naval stores in New England attending, undertook to draw up proposals in writing. |
| Dec. 24. |
Gabriel Bernon's further petition read (see No. 533), when general assurances were given him that care would be taken of the Colony. Order in Council of 10 December, repealing certain laws of Massachusetts, received (see No. 484) and transmitted to Sir Henry Ashurst. Letter to Secretary Trumbull as to Hudson's Bay written. The Board fixed next Monday for hearing the complaints against Governor Fletcher, and ordered notice to be given to the parties concerned. [Board of Trade. Journal, 9. pp. 300–307.] |
| Dec. 24. |
532. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Eunice Burt not appearing to answer Richard Burt's petition for divorce, a new warrant was issued for her to appear on the 7th January. [Board of Trade. New England, 49. p. 63.] |
| Dec. 24. |
533. Petition of Gabriel Bernon to Commissioners of Trade and Plantations. About three years ago I came to England and represented that I had applied myself for some time to the manufacture of naval stores. Being the only man that had undertaken that trade I begged for encouragement and protection, but my proposals had not the issue that was expected. If I should set a price upon the goods above mentioned I should be unable to perform it, owing to the ruin of my plantations at New Oxford, and the danger of my establishments elsewhere. I therefore represent how necessary it is that the country, which is ruined in several places, shall receive protection against the French and Indians. I beg therefore for your encouragement as to the said naval stores. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 24 Dec. 1696. [Board of Trade. New England, 8. No. 52.] |
Dec. 24.
Whitehall. |
534. Council of Trade to Secretary Trumbull. We have heard the case between Mons. de la Forest and Captain Allen and enclose the depositions; but the Company has asked for further time to bring additional proofs, so we wish to know whether the Governor shall be immediately sent away and whether the Company's evidence shall be communicated to him. Signed, Phil. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Abr. Hill. [Board of Trade. Hudson's Bay, 3. p. 22.] |
| Dec. 28. |
535. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. The Secretary reported that the King had delayed the return of Mons. de la Forest until the dispute as to Hudson's Bay should be settled. The merchants of Jamaica attending refused the offer to take eighty malefactors condemned to transportation, because most of them were women, and because persons of bad character were not wanted in Jamaica. |
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The complaints of Lieutenants Shank, Sydenham and Wright were then read, with the answers thereto, when the confusion was so great that the officers were told to draw up their complaints distinctly, and the hearing was postponed. Order for the Barbados Agents to attend on Wednesday morning. [Board of Trade. Journal, 9. pp. 307–309.] |
| [Dec. 28.] |
536. A collection of papers referring to the complaints of Lieutenants Roger Wright, George Sydenham and Matthew Shank, of the King's companies at New York. |
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536. I. Information of Lieutenant Roger Wright, laid before the Governor and Council of New York, 9 May, 1696. I have seen the accounts of the money paid by the Treasury for the subsistence of Captain Weems's and Captain Hide's companies. It appeared that full subsistence had been paid from the raising of those companies to the latter end of January, 1694. From the report and murmurings of the two companies I conceive them to be in arrears of that subsistence from the 1st of August, 1694, to the latter end of January, 1694–5, and understand that none of the subsistence has been paid to them in specie, except one Boston shilling to each man. I know also that a petition was laid before the Queen for a supply to those two companies in consideration
of their good service at sea, upon which petition an order passed, but for what sum I do not know, though the Treasury accounts will shew it. I have no more to say in this respect; but I conceive that, if the said subsistence had been punctually paid to the Companies by the Captains, according to Act of Parliament, the desertion of several men might have been prevented, some of whom perished in the woods. Copy. 1 p. |
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536. II. Reply of Captain William Hide to the information of Lieutenant Wright. It is not the fact that my own and Captain Weems's companies were cleared for subsistence to the 10th February, but only to the 29th of January 1694–5, as is sufficiently proved by an abstract received from the Paymaster-General. Lieutenant Wright mutinously asserts that the companies are in arrear from the 1st of August, 1694, to the 10th of February, 1694–5. I answer that the two companies were only cleared for subsistence by the Treasury up to the 29th January, 1694–5, up to which time subsistence has been paid to my own subalterns, staff officers and soldiers. I can show the officers' receipts and the ship-book in proof and that Lieutenant Wright has received £23 5s. 0d. more than his proper subsistence, as is shewn by the Agents' accounts and under his own hand. Thirdly, Lieutenant Wright positively asserts that a petition was laid before the Queen in Council for a supply to these companies, and that an order was passed for it. In reply I assert that I never heard of any such petition or order, never received a penny nor know of any money paid to any person whatever on that account. I am therefore of opinion that his assertion is false. Fourthly, Lieutenant Wright says that punctual payment of subsistence would have hindered desertion; to which I answer that the subsistence received from time to time for the companies was duly paid to them, as is proved by the victualling book and the officers' receipts. The money received on account of subsistence from the 1st of August, 1694, to the 29th of January, 1694–5 (while at sea) has been laid out on the soldiers in their great necessity, while on ship-board and since their arrival, as my accounts will show. I would mention that Lieutenant Wright has from time to time mutinously discouraged the soldiers of these companies from a cheerful performance of their duty by constant, familiar debauching with them and murmuring, as may be seen by a letter written with his own hand to a private centinel, Stephen White, in his company, discouraging him from his duty, upon which White deserted, and several others followed. I am of opinion that he is the cause of the desertion and mutinous behaviour of the troops since their arrival in the province. Copy. 2¼ pp. Endorsed, Read 1 Sept. 1696. |
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536. III. Report of the Council of New York on the two preceding documents. 11 May, 1696. We find that Captains Hide and Weems have received subsistence from the 1st of Aug., 1694, to the 29th of January and not to the 10th of February, 1694–5, as Lieuenant Wright. We find that victuals to subsist the men were put on board and that the victuals were charged to the Paymaster-General's account. Captain Hide had particular orders not to dispose of the money received from the 1st of August except upon extraordinary necessity; he has not the account ready, being just come from Albany, but will produce it in four or five days. The matter of the petition to the Queen is denied by Captain Hide. We find Captain Hide's accusation of mutinous behaviour against Lieutenant Wright supported by a letter from Wright to Stephen White complaining of hardship and bad quarters, with several dark and doubtful expressions, which tend to evil. We find that Wright has nothing to allege against Captain Hide in relation to the subsistence of the officers, but he still insists that the men should receive theirs in specie, notwithstanding their provision. Signed, Nich. Bayard, Fre. Flypse, Caleb Heathcote, Steph. v. Cortlandt, Gab. Minivelle. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed, Read 1 Sept., 1696. |
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536. IV. Account of the disbursement of moneys received by Captain Hide on account of subsistence of his company from 1 August, 1694, to 29 January, 1694–5. 3 pp. On the back, A reference of the accounts to the five members of Council, who signed the preceding document, dated 21 May, 1696; and a minute from those members that the account should accompany their report. Endorsed, Read 1 Sept., 1696. |
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536. V. Further information of Lieutenant Wright against Captain Hide, before the Council of New York. 21 May, 1696. Captain Hide brings forward his accounts to show that he has disbursed the subsistence-money received by him on necessaries for his company. I conceive that no officer, clerk or agent has power to detain any subsistence from any soldier longer than the Act of Parliament provides, nor to lay out the money in any object than that for which the Crown provided it, without incurring the penalty named in the Act. Yet Captains Hide and Weems have paid only one Boston shilling to each man, and still evade further payment on pretext of the accounts which he shows. I believe this to have caused much desertion. I now appeal to the General Court Martial held at Whitehall, when I will prove that this subsistence-money has not been disbursed according to Act of Parliament, and I beg to be allowed to appear there for the purpose. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 14th, Read 16th Dec., 1696. |
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536. VI. Copy of a letter from Captain Hide to Mr. Edward Southwell. New York. 6 June, 1696. This accompanies Lieutenant Wright's accusation against me of cheating my company out of the Queen's bounty for the good service done in our first engagement at sea, also of mismanaging the money given me on account of subsistence at Plymouth. My answer thereto is annexed, also my accounts for the money and the report of the Council of New York thereon. I hope this will satisfy you that I have not done amiss, having disposed of that money for the best of the service, and that he is a malicious blockhead. For my part I could never suppose that so much money should be sent me upon account and that I should keep it in my hands and see men perishing eleven months on ship-board for want of sick necessaries. My commissioned and staff officers cannot charge me with a groat due to them. The soldiers have been subsisted in provisions both at sea and land to this day, and what money was left in my hands upon account for my private men I disposed of towards their second year's mounting, for truly men cannot live alone upon meat and drink in this country, where the winters are so extremely cold that it is impossible for any European to endure any fatigue or duty without shoes, stockings, shirts and breeches; and it often falls out, by the long distance between this and England and the many miscarriages that happen by the loss and miscarriage of ships and letters, that the soldiers are sometimes in great necessity for want of clothing. Many times their officers, that are with any money or credit, lay out what they have to great disadvantage to cover their nakedness, that the King's service may go forward. But Mr. Wright's opinion is that they should have none of this care taken for them but that the men should receive the money which I received upon account (besides their provisions) in specie, that they might be able to drink rum. I shall not take his example or counsel in anything, being certain that he cannot instruct me in any point of my duty. Now, as to the character of this Lieutenant Wright, I will speak without malice and as favourably as I can. He is a drunken, vicious and inveterate fellow and can take a kicking as patient as a dram of Nantes, which is a cordial at all hours acceptable to him. He is a scandal to the King's commission, so talkative in his cups with all the scoundrels (for none else will keep him company) that he lashes at all without any regard. he was summoned before the committee a few days ago, I suppose after taking a large morning's draught of rum. Some words being moved him from the Council, Mr. Wright puts out his tongue, winks one of his eyes and screws his mouth up to a whistle (which are his customary indecent actions) and says: "Damme, I am "for the King, gentlemen, and you may do what you
"please, gentlemen, and I know the laws and acts of "Parliament." A letter from Mr. Povey to the Governor being produced on that occasion, Mr. Wright took the freedom to say: "Mr. Povey! S'blood, Mr. Povey! "What's he? Damme, I know him well enough. He " is but a little inconsiderable supernumerary clerk of " the Council." The spark is now at Albany and I am acquainted by a letter from Captain Weems that he is corrupting the new recruits there. He tells them that the Assembly's groat a day added to their pay is but a sham, and that they would never have a penny of it. I think this is discouraging the King's service and the beginning of mutiny. He is an intolerable villain and enough to vitiate a whole army. To write all his scandalous behaviour during the short time I have been acquainted with him, would destroy at least three quires of paper. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec. 1696. |
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536. VII. Information of Lieutenant George Sydenham before the Governor and Council of New York. In the year 1694 two independent companies for New York were raised under command of Captains James Weems and William Hide, for which subsistence was fully paid on embarkation in August. In our voyage on the 5th October we met with three French privateers, who disabled us so that we were forced back to Plymouth. Application being made for supply to enable us to pursue our voyage, subsistence was paid by the Treasury from the 1st of August, 1694 to the latter end of January, 1694–5. Notwithstanding several orders from Mr. Blathwayt to land the two companies, the men were confined on board, where several died. Moreover, in spite of the payment of the subsistence aforesaid I am highly sensible that none of it has been paid to the two companies in specie except one Boston shilling when they landed at Boston. I further certify that since the date of my commission, 16 February, 1693–4, in Captain Weems's Company, I have never received any money on account of subsistence up to the present date of 2 July, 1696. I have also seen a private letter signifying that petition was made for a grant to the forces for their good service, upon which an order for the same was passed. On our return to Plymouth in August, 1694, Dr. Heburde, surgeon to the companies, asked Captain Hide to assist him with money to re-fit for the voyage, which the captain refused; and this was the reason why the said Doctor deserted the service. At the end of January, 1694–5, Captain Hide procured the King's warrant for Dr. Stephen White, who was to have two shillings and sixpence for every soldier at their landing at New York. Dr. White several times applied to Captain Hide for necessaries for the voyage proportionable to the number of soldiers on board,
but a sufficient quantity was not laid in, which proved to the great loss of the King's soldiers. Moreover, a sum of money was paid for procuring necessaries for the voyage, over and above the subsistence aforesaid. When Dr. White on landing at New York applied to the two captains for the money due to him, and they refused to pay it, it bred such dissatisfaction in Dr. White as to make him desert the service several times, until when sent a prisoner in irons to Albany he very wilfully flung himself overboard and made his escape. If the subsistence money had been paid to the companies as the Act directs, I am of opinion that it would have saved much desertion. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14th, Read 16th and 28th Dec., 1696. |
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536. VIII. Captain Hide to Governor Fletcher. New York. 13 July, 1696. Lieutenant Sydenham's information seconds that of Lieutenant Wright. As to the matter of the subsistence received by me at Plymouth, and the bounty ordered for the forces at sea, I have no more to offer than I have already stated in answer to Lieutenant Wright. As to the orders which he says were sent by Mr. Blathwayt for landing the men, no such orders were sent us to Plymouth. I remember one letter from him to Lieutenant-Governor Fowke for landing the sick men of the companies upon St. Nicholas's Island, if there were accommodation, but the Lieutenant-Governor and I discovered that there was none. Moreover it was a bleak, cold place at that time of the year, as the Lieutenant-Governor signified to Mr. Blathwayt. I used every endeavour to have the sick men put into the hospital at Plymouth, but it was not allowed, it being out of their way to accommodate any soldiers but those sent from the grand fleet. Then I had no other shift but to hire an empty house in Plymouth for the sick, and I paid for the same and hired nurses to attend them. They were very well accommodated with fresh beef, mutton, roots, etc., and had apothecaries and chirurgeons to attend them, so that not one man died ashore. The well men on board had also of the same kind of fresh meat, as the victualler of Plymouth can testify. Contrary to Lieutenant Sydenham's opinion, I say that if the well men had been landed they would all have deserted, having endured much sickness and fatigue. As to Mr. Sydenham's complaint that he has received no money on account of subsistence, his captain must answer that. But this I know, that his Captain in my hearing offered him at Albany £30 upon account; when he answered that he did not want money. I am sensible also of this, that he received £10 at Plymouth, which had been paid to Captain Weems on account of subsistence, with orders to lay it out in his company on their extraordinary occasion, and that he turned it all to his own use besides
£5 more, which was charged to his captain. I was weak ashore after a great fit of sickness at the time and Lieutenant Riggs was much indisposed, but Mr. Sydenham, who had the care of all the men on board, left the ship without any commissioned officer and rambled into the country after his own fancies, taking no leave of the Lieutenant-Governor or myself. Several men deserted from on board on this occasion. About a month later, when he returned again, there was a muster of the regiments at Plymouth, when of his own shallow head he took tow or three files of Captain Weems's company and made them fall into the ranks of Norcott's Regiment to help the muster. To gratify him, a lieutenant of that regiment gave him two papist Frenchmen, privateers just out of gaol, for which he charged his captain £4 enlisting money. They are the two Frenchmen whom you ordered from Albany, on suspicion that they intended to desert to the French. Expecting to sail every day I had not time to call him to account at Plymouth for these transgressions, which I am sure are against the Act of Parliament and consequently would mean cashiering to him and disability to serve the Crown of England. As to the desertion of the surgeon, Herbert, he pawned the King's instruments and a pair of the soldiers' ammunition sheets before he went, as I reported to Chirurgeons' Hall, where they were much incensed against him, as I can prove by a letter from Herbert himself. He had a warrant from Chirurgeon's Hall that he was to have two shillings and sixpence a man for his care of them on the voyage to New York, and he was told that he would receive the money on his return, bringing a certificate from the officer of his diligence. As he deserted before the performance of his trust he has no claim for money, and as to paying him money to continue in the service I had no money for the purpose, unless I paid him from the subsistence money, which Lieutenants Wright and Sydenham maintain should be disposed of only by payments to the men in specie. Mr. Sydenham's assertion, that I have given my men no more than a Boston shilling in specie, is most perfidiously false, for I can prove by certificates that I have cleared my commissioned and staff officers in subsistence. I have not only paid my men that shilling in Boston to wash their linen, but laid out £2 10s. in ready money for provisions for them, when they were encamped for a day at New York. Colonel van Cortlandt knows this, and Major Schuyler will acknowledge that I have paid him 120 dollars on account for victualling my company, for which I hold his receipt. If this be not paying the men in specie I know not what specie is. Nor do I hear the men complain. They have been subsisted in provisions from their embarkation to this very day; and as to what
I have laid out upon my company in their extraordinary necessity, I hope my accounts will show that I have expended it to an unavoidable use and occasion. Notwithstanding Lieutenant Sydenham's favourable opinions of the surgeon Herbert, and our loss through his absence, the Lieutenant used to exclaim much against him and often told me that Herbert neglected his duty and called him rogue and rascal, which was a fine complaint from a commission-officer. He was so little a soldier as to think that I could not command him or any of Captain Weems's men on board, and had the confidence to tell me so to my face. But I took him to correction, beating that part of discipline into him, and afterwards kicked him out of the cabin, which he took very patiently. Stephen White, a private man in my company, upon Herbert's desertion, applied to me, saying that he understood chirurgery. He was examined by the King's chief chirurgeon at Plymouth, who sent a certificate of his ability to Chirurgeons' Hall, from whence he received a warrant like Herbert's for the voyage. But this did not discharge him from being a soldier. I supplied him with medicines and instruments by the advice of the King's chirurgeon, who completed me a sufficient chest for the voyage. As soon as we arrived here White asked me how he was to be paid for his trouble, and my answer was that I had no money, but that he must be patient, like others, till we heard from England. He seemed to be well satisfied till a letter from Lieutenant Wright discouraged him from serving the King at Albany, whereupon he deserted and several men with him, almost to the destruction of our Companies, if you had not recruited us. As to what Lieutenant Sydenham says of a supply received to provide the men with such articles as brandy, tobacco, sugar, rice, etc., over and above the subsistence money, he speaks falsely, as can be proved at the Treasury. To expose this Sydenham's cowardice I must acquaint you that he has lately been very well caned and cudgelled at Albany, and that he ran with a pistol in his hand, which he drew out of his coat-pocket, crying "Assault and battery! Assault and battery!" Moreover, his letter to you from Senectady, where he commanded in chief, plainly demonstrates his poor spirit and conduct and mere weakness of sense—that he stood looking over the stockades of the fort beholding all the action, when a party of cowardly, skulking Indians came and scalped and carried away some of the inhabitants—and he dared not send to their relief, nor so much as fire a gun from the fort, when he was near enough and by these means might have rescued them. I'll leave you to judge whether, if he behaved so in any garrison in Europe, he would not go near swinging for it. He brought here with him a cargo of peddling trade, and
has minded that and handling more than what his commission requires from him. He is so disturbing and factious a man, and so rank a coward, that he is a scandal to all who bear the King's Commission, and beneath any officer to march in one rank with. Besides, it is dangerous and of such evil consequence that it is not for the King's service for him to be entrusted in any manner of command which requires bravery. The man who will take a caning as patient as a pack-horse will never have the courage to vindicate the honour of his King and country. Copy. 7½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec., 1696. |
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536. IX. Extract from the Minutes of Council of New York, 16 July, 1696. The complaint of Lieutenant Sydenham and Captain Hide's answer were read. Colonel van Cortlandt and Major Schuyler testified to the payments made by Captain Hide for victualling his Company. Lieutenant Sydenham owned that he had been lately caned at Albany, but hoped that the Council would not allow it to be fair for an inferior officer to cane his superior without any reason. Order for a copy of the complaint and answer to be sent to England. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Received and read 28 Dec., 1696. |
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536. X. Abstract of the grievances of Lieutenant Roger Wright, with the answers of the New York Agents to the same. (1) On landing at Boston Wright wrote to the Governor telling him of the six months' subsistence paid in England for the use of the New York Companies, and warning him of the ill consequences that would attend their not paying it for its proper object. (2) At his landing at New York Lieutenant Wright was told by the Governor that he had received two letters in his behalf from the Dukes of Bolton and of Leeds; also that the Governor understood that the Captains had embezzled the subsistence money and great part of the surplus provisions and that he would not meddle with their concerns. Answer. (1, 2) There is only Mr. Wright's word for this. He seems to have been very early with his complaints. It is not likely that the Governor would say that the Captains had embezzled the subsistence till he had examined the matter. (3) The Governor told Lieutenant Wright that he was sorry for him, as he had served in command before, and that he had better have had a halbert in England than come to serve as Lieutenant in New York. Answer. (3) The Governor could only have meant that a halbert was as much as Mr. Wright deserved, or referred to the pay, which is much short of English and generally long in arrear. (4) Having no notice to prepare for the frontiers, Lieutenants Wright, Sydenham and Riggs asked the Governor to help them with a little money or credit, but the Governor refused. Answer. This can be no charge upon the Governor.
The Captain should have furnished the money if he had received it. (5.) Mr. Wright being put in command at Senectady applied for supplies of ammunition and stores, but he did not receive them. Answer. This is Mr. Wright's bare allegation. The Governor would send soldiers to no garrision without ammunition. (6) Mr. Wright found dissatisfaction among the men on account of hard usage and want of sufficient and good provisions, such as shirts, shoes and stockings, the want of which occasioned much desertion. Answer. If by provisions Mr. Wright means victuals, his statement is certainly false. The want of shoes, etc. might be very true and yet not the captain's fault, since the King's allowance might not bear it. Captain Hide gave his company many necessaries which he could only have supplied with the help of the subsistence money granted in England. It will be found that the desertion was due chiefly to Mr. Wright's conduct. (7, 8) Finding the companies much weakened Lieutenant Wright desired to know how the Captain could close the rolls according to Act of Parliament, upon which he was solicited to close the full muster-rolls but refused to close for more than the actual effective men. No musters were made in America, according to the Act. Answer. More proof than Mr. Wright's word is wanted. It is certain that the Governor and officers have been at great expense in keeping the companies full. (9) Mr. Wright was forced to subsist upon a private man's allowance for several months, having neither money nor credit allowed him otherwise. Answer. Mr. Wright must prove this, or it will be thought that no more of his pay could come to him owing to his debts. (10) The Governor deducted 30 per cent. for the subsistence that Mr. Wright received in England. Answer. It is extraordinary that Mr. Wright should not know that this deduction is made by the King and that all submit to it. It is indeed very heavy, and we hope that it may be taken off. (11, 12) Mr. Wright is highly sensible that the detention of the subsistence was the great cause for desertion in the two companies, but his representations thereupon were not heeded by the Governor and Council. The want of encouragement upon his lawful and just complaints obliged him to lay down his command in order to come home to seek justice of the King. Answer. The proceedings of the Council and Captain Hide's accounts, showing how the subsistence was disposed of, are to hand and open to inspection. The great occasion of the desertion of the soldiers arose from Mr. Wright's mutinous practices, which can be proved by letters which confirm every part of his behaviour since he came to New York. 3¼ pp. The complaints and answers are set out in parallel columns. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec., 1696. |
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536. XI. Copy of Lieutenant Wright's complaints only, without the Answers. 2½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14th, read 16th December, 1696. |
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536. XII. Abstract of the grievances of Lieutenant George Sydenham, with the Answers of the New York Agents thereto. (1) At our landing in Boston the two captains marched their men out of town, without paying their soldiers' quarters or signing the landlord's bills according to Act of Parliament. Answer. The [Mutiny] Act appears not to apply to parts beyond sea. In any case since the parties on whom the men were quartered made no complaint (since the arrangement was by consent) the affair is no concern of Mr. Sydenham's and is frivolous and impertinent. (2) Captain Weems carried a young lad out of England and sold him slave in New York for £15. Answer. It is no novelty to take young lads out to the Colonies for a certain number of years, paying for their passage and other necessaries, and to assign the term to such as are there willing to agree for their service. (3) On the order for March to Albany, Lieutenants Riggs, Sydenham and Wright applied to Governor Fletcher for money or credit, but were refused. Answer. The Governor had no money of theirs in his hands. Lieutenant Riggs makes no complaint. The reputation of Lieutenants Sydenham and Wright might verily deter a man from lending them money. (4) In September, 1695, Mr. Sydenham applied to Governor Fletcher for his subsistence, when the Governor ordered Captain Weems to pay him off; but Captain Weems refused to do so. Answer. It is neither said nor proved that the Governor was bound to find subsistence for Mr. Sydenham. If Captain Weems had had any of Mr. Sydenham's it is not likely that the Governor would not have enforced his order. (5) On New Year's Day Captain Weems sent Mr. Sydenham a full muster roll for signature; but he refused to sign it, saying that he had never seen so many effective men, and that it was contrary to Act of Parliament. Answer. This might well be, since Mr. Sydenham's peddling might make him ignorant how many men there were. If Captain Weems had made false musters he ought to suffer the penalty, but, as no such thing is asserted, this seems rather a calumny than an accusation. (6) At the end of March, 1696, Mr. Sydenham was sent to command the garrison at Senectady, who, finding that the men were without shoes, stockings, shirts or clothes, represented that in such a state the men could not perform the duty assigned to them. Captain Weems only replied that the soldiers had all the clothes that the King allowed them. Answer. It must be confessed that in those countries the soldiers are under great hardships from the dearness and scarcity of clothes and the smallness of their pay,
which is a full third less than in England; but if the soldiers had all the clothes the King allowed them the Captain could not be expected out of his own pocket to provide them with more. (7) Mr. Sydenham represented to the Governor also the want of clothing and of conveniences for boiling the men's provisions. The Governor wrote that clothes were hard to be got, but that he could provide the other necessaries applied for. This was not done. Answer. The money voted by the Assembly for the soldiers was expended according to the recommendation of a committee, who were better judges than Mr. Sydenham on what objects it should be spent. (8) Mr. Sydenham reported to the Governor that the Commissioners refused to give to the soldiers the provisions usually allowed, but gave instead thereof money of not half the value, saying that if the men would not take that they should have nothing. The Governor did nothing to remedy these abuses. Answer. It has been the constant practice in New York to victual the soldiers by contract rather than pay them money, which they would only spend upon drink to their own starvation. It is incredible that the Governor should have permitted such abuse on the mere assertion of Mr. Sydenham. (9) Mr. Sydenham was forced to live on a centinel's provision for several months, which was very ordinary. Answer. The victuals that will support one man may be assured to support another. Mr. Sydenham's merits entitle him to no better diet than the meanest centinel, at a time when no subsistence had been sent from England. (10) When relieved at Senectady Mr. Sydenham obtained leave to come to New York, when finding himself not able to live on such terms he laid an information before the Governor and Council against the two captains; to which the Governor replied that it was not the part of a gentleman to inform against his officers. Answer. It seems by Mr. Sydenham's coming to England that he was able to live on those terms. He does not say what information he laid. Had it been material the Council would have given him relief; but since it was nothing but mutinous clamour and frivolous murmurs the Answer could hardly have been other than it was. The other three lieutenants at Albany have suffered the same hardships as the three complainants, but they have never joined them nor made complaints. (11) Captain Weems charged Mr. Sydenham with £120 received from the Agent in England, whereas the Agent's accounts show that but £55 was so received. Answer. If this be so it is doubtless an error, and it is unquestionable that Mr. Sydenham should not be charged for more than he received; but the matter is insignificant to bring before their Lordships, and if the charge be unjust
Mr. Sydenham need not allow it. (12) From want of proper food and clothing some of the soldiers drowned themselves, others deserted into the woods, where they lived for days on roots and bark, and those that escaped to towns lost the use of their limbs for weeks. Some were re-taken, tried and shot; yet some deserted a second and third time owing to the hardships that they received. Answer. The soldiers did not desert from want of food and wholesome provisions, as Mr. Shanks's complaint can show. Some of the principal causes of desertion were the mismanagement, cowardice, ignorance and folly of such officers as Mr. Sydenham and others, as is shown by Captain Hide's letter to Mr. Edward Southwell, debauching and instilling mutiny into the men and blowing them up with hopes of faring much better in other colonies. If by improvidence, want of knowledge of the Country and strength to travel, some of the soldiers who deserted have perished, others have suffered great hardships, and others have been put to death, they owe it to the teaching of these officers and to their own wilful mistakes. (13) At the raising of the Company Mr. Sydenham spent £40 on the enlisting of fifty recruits. Mr. Blathwayt thought the charge reasonable, but Captain Weems refused to pay it or the money allowed by the King for raising so many men. Answer. Mr. Sydenham does not allege that Captain Weems ever received any money for the service which he claims to have done, nor in any case does Captain Weems's refusal concern Governor Fletcher or Captain Hide. Since Captain Weem's Answer cannot be had, it is reasonable to believe that, if such expense and refusal have been, the money has been stopped for a like or greater sum converted by Mr. Sydenham to his own use. 3½ pp. The grievances and Answers are set out in parallel columns. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec., 1696. |
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536. XIII. Copy of the grievances of Lieutenant Sydenham alone without the Answers. 3 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14th, read 16th Dec., 1696. |
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536. XIV. Depositions of three soldiers of Captain Weems's company, taken at Albany, 11 August, 1696, that they and seven more were sent on shore at Plymouth by Lieutenant Sydenham, and placed in the ranks of Colonel Northcott's Regiment, to help the muster. Copy. Inscribed. The original Captain Weems sends, I believe. Signed, W. Hyde. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec. 1696. |
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536. XV. Grievances of Lieutenant Matthew Shank against the Governor and Captains in New York, with the Answers of the Agents for New York thereto. (1) Mr. Shank served as first lieutenant in a company of Grenadiers raised for New York. Answer. "It is very
true." (2) The company having done duty in England for several months received and spent their pay in England, and were afterwards transported to New York, where Governor Sloughter died in five months after his arrival. Answer. "Not improbable." (3) After him Governor Fletcher came over and brought clearings for the two companies to the first of January, 1691. Answer. Likely enough. (4) Governor Fletcher kept the pay in his own hands for ten months after his arrival, and before he would pay Mr. Shank deducted 30 per cent. Answer. Governor Fletcher arrived at the end of August, 1692. There was some dispute as to £1,100 received by Governor Sloughter for the two Companies, so that there may have been delay (though it is not acknowledged) until that dispute was settled. The deduction of 30 per cent. was made before Governor Fletcher received the money. (5) Governor Fletcher brought the Companies into debt, which caused much desertion. Answer. The victualling of the men and the stoppage for their clothing in England amounts to more than their pay, so no wonder they were brought into debt. (6) Since then the Companies have been kept without subsistence for eighteen months at a time, the place where they are being so poor that they can have no credit, and the Governor takes no care for their subsistence, so that living becomes impossible. Answer. This cannot be. No man can live eighteen months without subsistence. That the place is poor is too true, but Mr. Shank's want of credit proceeds from another cause. The Governor has constantly taken care for victualling the troops, and that living is possible becomes evident from the letters of officers living there, and Mr. Shank's own return to make this grievous complaint. (7) Mr. Shank being in want of money applied to Governor Fletcher for the subsistence due to him. The Governor Answered that he had no money. Mr. Shank said that if the Governor would draw a bill on the Agent he, Mr. Shank, could have what money he wanted from a merchant in New York. The Governor replied that he would draw no bill, and that if Mr. Shank wanted money one Mr. Honan would advance it, which he was forced to do, and received £20 New York money in return for a bill for £23 sterling. Answer. The reason for the Governor's refusal was that he had no money of Mr. Shank's in his hands and that his credit was insufficient. If Mr. Shank made an ill bargain with Mr. Honan it was because he could procure money on no better terms elsewhere. (8) The Governor finding the Companies there would not write to the King for recruits, but that his Majesty would make them up hundreds (sic). When the forces arrived they were about half-companies, and there has never been more than one muster returned
there five or six years that Mr. Shank knew or heard of. Answer. That the Governor has from time to time written for recruits will appear by his letters, though many packets have been captured by the French. The musters returned may be found in the office unless prevented by the same misfortune. Mr. Shank is not so well acquainted with the Governor as to know what he does or does not write for. (9) Mr. Shank's Company has received but two mountings in five years; and the consequent want of necessaries has caused much desertion. Answer. They have had all that has been sent over for them. (10) An order came from the Governor to the Sheriff of Albany to muster the Companies there, and the sheriff refusing, on the solicitation of the captains, to sign a private muster was turned out of the place, as was verily believed, for no other reason. Answer. The Governor has unquestionably taken great pains to keep the Companies full and the Assembly has helped him. Mr. Shank does not give the names of these captains, nor say whether he means all or only two of them, nor whether by a private muster he means a false muster. He positively asserts that the sheriff was turned out of the place for refusing it, and then says that the fact is verily believed. Evidently slander and detraction are more aimed at by this complaint than any pretended wrong. (11) Mr. Shank was forced to subsist upon a centinel's allowance for several months, the said allowance being only bread, beer, pork and pease at five pence a day, New York money. For this hard usage he made application to the Governor for redress, but failing to obtain it was forced to resign his commission and come to England. Answer. If Mr. Shank subsisted at five pence a day it shows good husbandry and that consequently he must be a gainer by his commission. Not to be able to live in the same circumstances as other men confesses a great weakness. If the station of a soldier and the dangers and fatigue of war have been too hard for Mr. Shank he has done well to resign, and it is offered that his place is filled by one well satisfied with his post, capable of living by his pay and of discharging his duty. Copy. 1½ pp. The grievances and Answers are set out in parallel columns. Endorsed, Recd. and read 28 Dec., 1696. |
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536. XVI. Copy of the grievances of Lieutenant Matthew Shank, without the Answers. 2 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 14th. Read 16th Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. Nos. 84 I.–XVI.] |
Dec. 28.
Whitehall. |
537. William Popple to the Solicitor-General. Forwarding the Acts passed by the Assembly of New York for his inspection and opinion. [Board of Trade. New York, 52. p. 54.] |
| [Dec. 28.] |
538. A list of several Acts of the General Assembly of New York from April, 1691, to 25 March, 1696. 5½ pp. Endorsed,
List of Acts sent to Mr. Solicitor-General, 28 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. Nos. 85; and 52. pp. 54–61]. |
| Dec. 30. |
539. Petition of the subscribers for working mines and producing Naval Stores in New England, to Council of Trade and Plantations. We have made large subscriptions towards the digging of mines and producing of naval stores in New England. The stock to be raised will be so great and the number of persons concerned and employed so many as cannot be orderly managed but under the powers of a Corporation, for which reason we beg to be incorporated. Our charter will not exclude others from producing the same commodities. The King may have the pre-emption of the said commodities, and the Company will be ready to contract, as often as required, with the Navy Board for the supply of naval stores from New England on the usual terms. Such contracts made by the Company will be more for the King's service than a similar contract with private persons, since the Company will always have a sufficient stock for the supply of the said commodities, and will not be liable to accidents or disabilities which often attend private persons. To give assurance of our design to use our stock in producing the said commodities, we are willing for a clause to be inserted in the Charter empowering the King, in case of our neglect or refusal to contract with the Navy Board for supply of naval stores, to cancel our Charter by advice of the Council under the Great Seal, giving time for the Company first to dispose of their effects for equal distribution of the dividend among the shareholders. We have already been at great expense, had many attendances, and spent much time to obtain a charter. Longer delay will much hinder, and speedy dispatch greatly advantage, the undertaking. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read, 30 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New England, 8. Nos. 53; and 36. pp. 99–101.] |
| Dec. 30. |
540. Memorial of Barbados merchants to Council of Trade and Plantations. Many of our ships now fitting out for Barbados are but lately arrived in the river, and the great frosts have hindered their equipment for sailing, so that few or none are ready. We beg therefore that the despatch of the convoy may be postponed till the 31st of January. The number of ships will then be about twenty-five sail of two hundred tons each, one with another. Signed, Fran. Eyles, Rob. Heysham, Rowland Tryon, Samson Gideon. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read, 30 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 7. No. 23.] |
| Dec. 30. |
541. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. Several applications for copies of documents, relating to the complaints against Governor Fletcher, granted. Lord Macclesfield's letter of 9 December read. (See No. 477.) Standing Order that the Secretary open all letters addressed to the Board, as soon as they come into his hands. The merchants of Newfoundland asking as to their convoys were told that the business would be considered on Friday. The Barbados merchants presented a memorial (No. 540), and urged the expediency of all the convoys to sail together. Ordered that the Agents for the Leeward Islands attend to-morrow on this
business. The Lords took into consideration the question of presents to Governors, and drew up a list of their present salaries. The gentlemen interested in mines and naval stores in New England presented a memorial. (See No. 539.) |
| Dec. 31. |
The Secretary reported that the Admiralty informed him that the men-of-war for Virginia were not yet ready. Order for notice to be given to Mons. de la Forest that his business will be considered on Monday next. On the application of Lieutenant Wright the original memorials from him and his brother officers were returned to him. The merchants to the Leeward Islands attended on the subject of convoys, and agreed, after some discourse, that it would be best for the convoys to sail together. Messrs. Leisler and Gouverneur gave in affidavits from two persons as to the elections in New York. (See Nos. 543, 544.) A letter from Lord Bellomont announcing his coming to England within two or three weeks was read. A memorial from Mr. Randolph as to the new Governor of the Bahamas was read (see No. 542), when he disclaimed any personal exception against Captain Webb. Order for a letter to the Proprietors of the Bahamas reminding them that the Governor should be approved by the King. [Board of Trade. Journal, 9. pp. 309–316.] |
| Dec. 31. |
542. Memorial of Edward Randolph to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I understand that the Proprietors of the Bahamas have recalled Mr. Trott, the present Governor, and contrary to the Act for regulating the Plantation Trade have appointed Captain Nicholas Webb to succeed him without previous approval of the King in Council, as required by the Act. Hereby the illegal trade in the Bahamas will be encouraged and supported by the Proprietors' Governors unless they be first duly qualified as the Act directs. I propose that Captain Webb be presented by the Proprietors to you for examination as to his fitness for his appointment and for the King's approval if his Majesty see fit. Signed, Edw. Randolph. Holograph. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. Read 31 Dec., 1696. [America and West Indies. 601. No. 40.] |
| [Dec. 31.] |
543. Deposition of Henry van Bael of New York. Deponent was in the city at the time of the election in May, 1695, when he was sufficiently informed that the freeholders, of whom he is one, were not to enjoy free privilege of election because several soldiers and sailors were to be packed upon the freeholders, and the sailors of H.M.S. Richmond were to be there to deter the people from voting as they liked. For these reasons only he did not go to the place of election, and after it he was sufficiently informed that these things did happen, and that the freeholders had not free votes. Sworn, 21 Dec., 1696. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 31 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. Nos. 86; and 52. pp. 64–65.] |
| [Dec. 31.] |
544. Deposition of Martines Lambris of New York. Deponent was present at the election in New York in May, 1695, when he saw that the inhabitants divided themselves into two parties, one of which began to vote and asked the others why they did not vote. The others replied: "We have not our privileges,
for there are several sailors and soldiers among you, not freeholders, whom you have clothed in other habits; and besides, if we do vote, the sailors of the King's ship are ready armed with clubs"; which sailors deponent saw himself. So that by these means the inhabitants were forced to lose their right, and went away much discontented. Deponent saw the sailors of the King's ship march with a violin at the head of them, who mocked at the inhabitants who did not vote. The said inhabitants protested then and there that none but freeholders ought to vote, of which right they were debarred by these abuses. The Assembly thus chosen was always looked upon as illegal by the majority of the inhabitants, who continually murmured thereat. Deponent has heard many of them say that they never expected to enjoy their rights under Governor Fletcher but hoped for redress from the King. The said Assembly raised several taxes, and among them a sum to defray the expenses of William Nicolls, who was sent agent to England by the Governor and Council, which the people were unwilling to pay. In Long Island the people cried out much against the oppression under which they lost their privileges, and thought they would not have their rights while the Governor continued. Sworn, 21 Dec., 1696. Endorsed, Recd. 31 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. Nos. 87; and 52. pp. 62–64.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
545. Order of the King in Council. That the Proprietors of the Proprietary Colonies be heard in the matter of the memorial and representation on January 7th, as recommended by the Council of Trade in their report of 17 December. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. and read 1 Jan., 1696–7. [America and West Indies. 601. No. 41; and Board of Trade. Proprieties, 25. p. 18.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
546. Order of the King in Council. For the stores of war in a list annexed to be sent to Barbados, of which the Master-General of the Ordnance shall take notice. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 18 June, 1697. Read, 6 July. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 7. Nos. 24; and 44A. p. 70.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
547. Order of the King in Council. Approving the recommendation of the grant of £500 to encourage emigrants to Jamaica, and referring it to the Council to appoint a fit person to procure and encourage poor tradesmen and others to transport themselves to Jamaica. Copy. 1½ pp. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 8. Nos. 40; and 56. pp. 83–84.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
548. Order of the King in Council. Correcting the preceding order, and directing the £500 to be paid to such person as the Council of Trade shall appoint. 1½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. Read, 19 March, 1696–7. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 8. Nos. 41; and 56. p. 84.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
549. Orders of the King in Council. Approving six Acts of Montserrat and ten Acts of the General Assembly of the Leeward Islands. Copies. 3½ pp. Endorsed, Recd. and read, 9 June, 1697. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 5. No. 21; and 45. pp. 70–74.] |
Dec. 31.
Kensington. |
550. Order of the King in Council. That orders be sent to the Governor of Maryland to pay the allowance to Richard Sewell, Thomas Cockshutt and Stephen Bordley, ministers, according to the prayer of their petition. Signed, Wm. Bridgeman. ½ p. Endorsed, Recd. 15 Jan. Read 1 Feb., 1696–7. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 3. No. 9; and 9. p. 26.] |
Dec. 31.
Whitehall. |
551. J. Tucker to Mr. Popple. Forwarding extract of a letter from Lord Bellomont, to be laid before the Council of Trade.¼ p. Annexed, |
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551. I. Extract from a letter of Lord Bellomont to Secretary Trumbull. Dublin, 12 Dec., 1696. I hope in a fortnight or three weeks to kiss your hands in London, and after that to be ready to be dispatched to New England, if the King see fit to send me to that Government. Copy.¼ p. The whole endorsed, Recd. and read 31 Dec., 1696. [Board of Trade. New England, 8. No. 54.] |
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552. A collection of six loose sheets with brief memoranda relating to the distribution of certain New York papers, according to the old arrangement. [Board of Trade. New York, 6. Nos. 88–93.] |
