|
June 16. Kensington. |
885. H.M. Warrant appointing Richard Lightfoot to the
Council of Antegoa. Countersigned, Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32.
p. 92.] |
June 18. Office of Ordnance. |
886. Board of Ordnance to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Enclose following. Signed, C. Musgrave, W. Bridges,
Ja.Craggs. Endorsed, Recd. 21st., Read 22nd June, 1711. 1p.
Enclosed, |
886. i. Governor Hunter to the Duke of Marlborough. New
York, May 7, 1711. Your Grace will perceive by the
inclosed report of two of the gentlemen of the Councill,
whome I appointed to view the stores in this garrison,
what a miserable condition wee are in, without small
arms, without byonetts, without swords, and without
cartouch boxes, and of powder and everything so small
a quantity, that I dread the thoughts of the approach
of an enemy. I pray your Grace to order me by the
first oppertunaty a sufficient supply, that for want of
that wee may not become a prey to the enemy. Signed,
Ro. Hunter. Copy. 1p. |
886. ii. A list of the stores of war in H.M. Fort Anne, New
York, May 8, 1711. Signed, R. Walter, R. Mompesson.
Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1050. Nos. 21, 21 i, ii; and
(without enclosures) 5, 1122. p. 390.] |
June 18. Annapolis Royall. |
887. Col. Vetch to Lord Dartmouth. Since my last ane
unfortunate advanture oblidges mee to give your Lordships the
trouble of another. I had in severalls of my former intimated the
desturbance wee mett withall from sckulking partys of Indians
with regard to wooding the fort (for which wee are oblidged to
send two mile by water to the edge of the woods and run a con
siderable risque from the lurking Indians) but especialy with
regard to the sparrs and beams as well as plank and boards for
which wee have contracted with the inhabitants and payd them
one half for advance: their way was to cutt a considerable
number and after forming them in a float to bring them down,
the Indians had frequently cutt lose those floats and turned
them adrift as well as t(h)reatned the inhabitants if they either
cutt or brought us any more, but by sending up of partys to
freighten the Indians and give a fair pretension to the inhabitants
wee still found a way to make them furnish them fast enough to
supply the works which were pretty farr advanced about the
midle of this month Major Forbes (Engineer here and verry
deserving of a better post) told mee thatt hee began to be in
want of trees and planks for carrying on the fortifications, and
that the inhabitants were so insulted and threatned by the
Indians and French party that they neither could nor durst
bring any more to us unless they were in a manner compelled by a
party being sent up amongust them for that effect, accordingly
as I had frequently formerly done, I sent along with Major Forbes
a party consisting of a Captain, three subalterns and 60 good men
in two flat boats and a whale boat, who going up with too much
confidence (having never before hardly mett with any resistance)
and by putting ashoar below made a rumor of their comming go
before them, they were ambouscadoed by 150 Indians newly
arived from Ponobscutt in a narrow place of the river through
which passing two securely the whale boats crew only consisting
of 5 more having contrary to their express orders gone before the
rest were every man killed long before the heavy boats came in
sight refusing as the Indians say any quarter, the two flatts who
heard the noise of the musketts hastned up to their releif, who
imprudently pulling ashoar one after another as they could row
fastest went ashoar upon all the Indians fire whom they could
not see for trees and rocks while they being thronged in the boats
were such a mark as could not be missed, who notwithstanding
pulled directly ashoar upon them and were all of them killed,
wounded and taken save one man who escaped in the woods and
returned after two dayes, thiss was about 4 leagues from the
garison, the place where most of all the timber for the fort was
cutt, in thiss action Major Forbes, William Elliott, fort major,
were killed and 16 more, Captain Bartlett, Ensign Coxhedge and
about 9 more wounded. I must own that the Indians have
treated them better then ordinary, and offer to sell (as their
manner is) all the wounded for about £150, who are 10 in all, one
Captain, one Ensign, two serjants and six men, the others they
refuse to ransome proposing to carry them to Canada. I would
willingly give them £5 per man for the private men, £10 for a
serjant, £20 for ane ensigne and £50 for the Captain, both because
wee extreamly want them and because they press so hard for itt
being to march 500 miles by land in which journey most of them
must dy for want of provisions, there being not one house by the
way, and all they have to depend upon is the produce of their
hunting by the way, your Lordship will percive by the inclosed
coppys of papers to the respective Governments what application
I have made to them; as I expect but small if any assistance
from any of them, so I hope your Lordship will advise H.M. to
hasten over a reinforcement to me, for wee are so intirely blockt
up by the Indians that wee cannot gett one stick of wood to burn
all the inhabitants being flead whither to joyn them or not I
cannot tell but if by good Providance three or four Boston vessels
who had bein loading of coals about 40 leagues from hence had
not arrived here whom I have caused all to unload for the use of
the garison to the quantity of above 200 tunn, which will goe
near to serve the garison in fire tweelve months, I cannot tell
what wee should have done. I was necessitate to give them
rebaiting the freight near the price att Boston where coals are
extreamly dear, the which summ is included amongst the other
expenses of this garison draun for now, which I hope will be
honoured being for the pressing necessitys of reparations and
stores, etc. The party of Indians and Canadians which now
block us up by land are sayd to be near [? 16]00 men who by the
best intelligence I cann learn were sent by the Governour of
Canada to prevent the French inhabitants espousing the Brittish
intrest to keep the Indians in heart by assuring them of a squadron
from France to reduce the place and to obstruct the fortifications,
but as I have no fear of them though the garison be both weak
and sickly as the inclosed account to Governour Dudley will
inform your Lordship, unless the desertion of the Marines many
of whom are found to be Irish Papists proves our ruine, however
(by God's assistance) I hope allways to act the part that is
incumbent upon mee to the last degree both of bravery prudence
and faithfulness and fear nothing of all my officers doing the same,
etc. Signed, Sam. Vetch. P.S. Since writing the above I
have advice of two vessells arived att the bay Vert a port just
behind this neck of land wee are seated upon, they have brought
ammunition provisions and some men to joyn the party that
blocks us up by land. I have ransomed seven of our wounded
men, one ensign and a serjant for about £70 value in shrouds and
blankets. All the well prisoners save two officers they have sent
to Canada. Wee have every day some Irish marines deserts us,
and it deserves a severe reprimand to the officers who entertain'd
so many Irish papists and French as were sent upon thiss detachment. Signed, Sam. Vetch. 3 pp. [C.O. 5, 9. No. 99.] |
June 19. Whitehall. |
888. Mr. Popple to Berkely Seymour. The Council of Trade
and Plantations having under consideration your petition (v.
Aug. 14, Sept. 19, 1710), desire you will get a clear account in
writing of what the duty will amount to, etc. [C.O. 5, 727. p.
257.] |
June 20. Whitehall. |
889. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney Generall. The Council of
Trade and Plantations desire your opinion upon enclosed draught
of a Representation upon Lord Baltimore's petition (v. Feb. 5
etc.) [C.O. 5, 727. p. 258.] |
June 20. Whitehal. |
890. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord Dartmouth.
Enclose Addresses from the Council and Assembly of Virginia,
(v. March 6th), to be laid before H.M., Col. Blakeston having
attended us with copies thereof, alledging that the originals were
taken at sea, etc. [C.O. 5, 1363. p. 303; and (rough draft) 5,
1335. pp. 118–119.] |
June 20. Barbadoes. |
891. Mr. Lillington to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Encloses duplicates of June 13. Since which I have not wherewithall to trouble yr. Ldps. except the perusall of the other side,
which I recd. (by the neglect of the officer) on Monday the 18th
inst. att noon, many hours after the sailing hence of H.M.S.
Guernsey and Sweepstakes, who came in on the Saturday before
from their cruize, in which the latter took a French Guinea ship
with 160 slaves; and both sail'd for the farther releife of H.M.
Leward Islands on the 18th early in the morning. Soe that they
now have all the succour we can send them hence; undoubtedly
a greater force then the enemy can bring against them by sea;
tho' I find their fears encreast by this late advice, I hope without
any just grounds. For in the cruize of H.M.S. Guernsey and
Sweepstakes, which has been for 3 weeks together about the
French Islands, some of these ships of force must have been mett
withall, as well as the sloops, three of which were chac't into
Guadaloup Harbour by the Sweepstakes, from whom I cannot
learn that he saw any ship of force in that Harbour; and my son
who was in Martinique a month agoe with the Flagg of Truce,
tells me he thinks it impossible that they should att that Island
fitt out the Adventure for this expedition, she then lying neglected
without masts or rigging. I doe not question but that I shall
within a few days be able to give your Lordships a good account
of the enimie, etc. Signed, G. Lillington. Endorsed, Recd. 1st,
Read 12th Sept. 1711. 1 p. Enclosed, |
891. i. Lt. Yeamans to the President of the Council of Barbados. Refers to letter of June 3 (v. June 13). Since
which we have had fresh intelligence, which makes us
to apprehend ourselves to be in a farr worse condition
then was att that time imagined, we being now informed
that their design is positively against this Island, and
that they will attack us with att least 30 sail, of which
4 are ships, the Adventure man of war that was lately
taken from us making one of that number. This advice
we have from a prisoner that was left aboard a Guinea
ship who arriv'd last week after engaging the Ruby
just to windward of our Island. He att first denied
his having any knowledge of the enemy's intentions,
but being in a desperate condition by the wounds he
had recd. in the engagement, and perceiving himself att
the point of death, has yesterday declared to us that the
enemy is positively designed to attempt this Island, and
that they are to sail from Guadaloupe (the last place of
their rendezvous) by the 14th inst. our stile att farthest,
which oblidges me to send this second express, and to
desire that you will afford us all the assistance you can
by sending down all the men of warr that attend your
station; and if Capt. Legg or any other accidentall ships
are att your Island, I assure myself that you will use
your utmost endeavours to prevail with them to accompany the others, it being highly for the interest and
advantage of H.M. in regard this Her island is att
stake. P.S. Three of the ships are of the following
force, viz., one of 36 gunns, one of 20, and the third of
about 18, besides the Adventure. Signed, John Yeamans.
Copy. No date. 1p. [C.O. 28, 13. Nos. 62, 62 i; and
(without enclosure) 29, 12. pp. 365, 366.] |
June 20. Barbados. |
892. Mr. Lillington to [? Lord Dartmouth.] Duplicates of
preceding and enclosure. [C.O. 28, 43. Nos. 58, 58 i.] |
June 21. New London. |
893. Minutes of a Council of War held at New London by
H.M. commands. The general Instructions to H.E. Col. Hunter
were read. Agreable to a former porportioning of men from ye
severall Governmts. it is now determined for ye present expedicon,
that ye proportions following be supplyed; New York 600,
Connecticut 360, East Jersey 180, West Jersey 180, Pensilvania
240. To march to Albany on July 2, or so soon after as is possible.
Upon reading Mr. Commissary Belchers letter from Boston what
can be had for ye supply of ye generall Expedicon, Col. Hunter
declared that he should want ye following articles. Agreed that
letters go from this Board to Mr. Commissary Belcher, that 50
butts of wine, 10, 000 gallons of rume, 150,000 of rice be taken up
presently and disposed as Col. Hunter shall direct. It being
represented at ye Board that Capt. Matthews in the Chester is not
gon to Annapolis Royal for Col. Vetch as he was ordered, the
necessity of ye service demanding ye comeing of Coll. Vetch
imediately, Col. Dudley is desired to send away Capt. Carver to
Annapolis to carry ye letters left with Mr. Secretary Addington
and the letters now agreed on, and that Carver proceed immediately and that he keep ye shoar on board going and coming
least he meet with any vessels of strength superior to himself
and at ye last danger to throw away his letters, and that Carver
and his company keep all secret of the expedition. Agreed that
Sir Charles Hobby be Deputy Governor of Annapolis Royall
during Col. Vetch's absence. It appeareing to the Board that
it is impossible to provide pork and pease etc. sufficient for ye
fleet and forces, proposed that there be two fish days in a week
for ye forces coming from Great Brittain and that Col. Hunter
provide fish accordingly. Col. Hunter representing at the Board
ye necessity of ye coming of ye two transports ye Joseph and ye
Neptune now at Boston to New York both to unliver their loading
and to carry provisions back to Boston for ye service of ye fleet
and forces, agreed that Capt. Cockburn be written to that one of
H.M. ships ye Saphire or Leopard convoy ye sd. transport to
York and return immediately to Boston. And if ye Admirall
of H.M. Fleet be arrived that Capt. Cockburn wayt on ye Admirall,
and if he see meet to make any other order for ye safety of ye
said transports coming to York it is left to his direction, and if
this method failes, that Col. Dudley write to Capt. Mathews to
bring them round the Cape so as they be safe into ye Sound, and
that Mr. Commissary Belcher provide each of ye transports as
well as the frigot a pilot at H.M. Charge. Added to ye order to
Capt. Cockburn or ye other frigot yt. Convoys ye transports to
New York, after having taken on board of him such a quantity
of provisions as he can well stow, and taking charge of such other
ships or sloops loaded with provisions as shall in that time be
ready. Order to Capt. Mathews as above. |
Col. Cranston reported to ye Councill of Warr that ye Assembly
of ye Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations had
consented to ye raising of 160 men and no more. And that he
desired that Mr. George Lee might be Lt. Colonel to Col. Nalton
in ye regiment consisting of ye Massachusets and Newhamshire
where he was Major ye last yeare. In pursuance of ye order for
fish, Col. Hunter wrote to Mr. Commissary Belcher to procure
700 quintalls, and to Comadore Cockburn about ye convoying
the two transports from Boston to York, etc. June 22. It being
moved to ye Councill of Warr for their advise whethere it were
not for ye serv[ic]e and safety of ye troops or ye land part going
toward Mountreal to have a reserve of provisions sent with the
Fleet to Quebeck and so to Mountreal, advised that Govr. Saltonstall do send 3 months subsistance and provisions necessary for
his quota of men in two sloops to Boston to joyn ye fleet and to
proceed to Canada and from thence find ye best and safest
passage to ye Cap wheresoevere they bee, and the sloops to be at
the disposall of the officers for the bringing back any sick or
wounded or other service. For the supply of ship carpenters for
ye building of battoes or flat bottom boats at Albany or elsewhere,
Governour Saltonstall is desired to provide ten good able ship
carpenters, and let them be sent forthwith to Albany to Col.
Schuyler or such other officer as shall be appointed by Govr.
Hunter for that service, who shall be paid by H.M. Advised
that Govr. Saltonstall provide at the best hand and send to
Albany 200 bevers and 600 sheep to be delivered to Col. Hunter
or his order for his own quota. Col. Rednap attending was
directed to proceed in the service, and in order thereunto to
repair to York to receive Gov. Hunter's Commission for the
present expedition, and he is allowed 1s. per diem for himselfe
and his clerk during ye expedition for his extraordinary service.
Major Levingstone attending ye Board with his Commission as
Major and Commander of a Scout drawn out of ye forces by ye
Commander in Chiefe of ye Expedition late to Port Royal, and
his Journal in that service, the Councill were of opinion that ye
office and service was very necessary, and Govr. Hunter was
desired to give him commission accordingly and a letter to ye
Generall of ye forces recommending him in ye name of ye Board,
and that he forthwith attend ye Generall with a copy of this
Journal and other observations, and be at his direction where to
serve either in the expedition to Quebeck or with the land forces
by the way of Albany. The Governours at the Board severally
reported that in obedience to H.M. Instructions, they had made
strict and generall embargoes in all their ports to prevent intilligence to be given to ye enemy of ye present expedition. Govr.
Dudley acquainted ye Board that he desired Major Roberton
might serve in ye Massachusets forces, and that he had a company
for him as two years past, which was acceptable to ye Board.
Advised that ye forces of Connecticut march from their head
quarters at Newhaven towards Albany July 2nd, being as soon
as possible they can be ready, and that Col. Hunter be desired to
use all possible expedition with ye Assemblys of New York and
ye Jerseys to hasten ye raysing and mounting of the severall
quotas for those Governments. Major Generall Winthrop, Coll.
Townsend, and Lt. Coll. — from Boston attended and gave
account under Mr. Commissary Belcher's hand what wine, rum,
rice all might be had in Boston for ye service of ye British forces,
which was well excepted by H.E. Col. Hunter, and desired that
there might be no delay or interruption in ye comeing down of
their provisions from West Hampshire, which was recommended
to Govr. Saltonstall; they also presented their challenge of debt
from Connecticute and Rohode Island for ye joynt service and
pray'd that ye accounts might be recommended to ye Generall
Assembly of Connecticut and Rhode Island. In consideration of
ye great charge and expence of ye travels by sea and land and
attendence of H.M. Governours to the present Congress being
the disdance of 100 miles and more, the Board are of opinion that
there should be allowed to ye severall Governors the sumes
following:—Govr. Hunter, £50; Govr. Dudley, £50; Govr.
Saltonstall £20; Governour Cranston £25; Col. Schuyler £40 etc.
H.M. in ye 11th Instruction to Govr. Hunter commanding the
obteyning ye service of ye Maques, and their scouting, and
service is recommended to ye officers at Albany and elswhere
in ye service. And the 11th Instruction and ye second in ye
additionall Instructions relating to ye raiseing of ye Militia be
referred to ye severall Governours, ye circumstances of ye severall
Colonys and provinces not being possible to be reduced to one
form or direction from this Board, and that ye Governours are
desired severally to give intilligence to each other of any appearance of an enemy, and to keep out armed sloops to discover the
approach of an enemy. Governour Cranston desired that the
vote of ye Assembly of Rhode Island for ye raising of 162 men
might be excepted for the present expedition. The Board do
agree thereunto provided ye said number do not includ officers nor
saylors. Col. Hunter reported what he had done to provide rum
and wine and rice for ye subsistance of ye British forces, which
was accepted at ye Board, and he was farther desired to proceed.
H.M. having commanded a publick Fast in all her provinces and
Governments to implore ye favor and blessing of Almighty God
upon ye Expedition, it is recommended to ye severall Governours
to take care therein. Col. Hunter shewed ye list of officers sent
by H.M., and offerd ye service of any number of them to the other
Governours at the Board. Col. Cranston informed the Board he
wanted none. Col. Dudley referr'd ye consideration of ye affair
so far as concernd him till ye arrivall of Col. Vetch who was to
comand his part of ye forces. Col. Hunter is desired to supply
Col. Cranston with 162 fuzees for ye service of his quota with ye
other accoutrements. Upon reading at the Board ye severall
letters of ye Rt. Hon. Mr. Secretary St. John, they are satisfyed
that all that can be done is proceeded as far as may be untill the
arrivall of ye Generall of the forces and Col. Vetch. It is left with
Col. Hunter and Col. Dudley to settle an express to pass between
Boston and Albany every ten days, and Generall Nicholson is
desired to give notice from Albany when ye express shall begin.
Col. Hunter's express to come from Albany to Springfield to be
performed at H.M. charge, and Govr. Dudley's from Springfield
to Boston. Upon ye reading at the Board ye Addresses from
Capt. Southack and Capt. Redgood the principell pilots to
Quebeck, it is desired that Govr. Dudley will lay the papers before
ye Generall and Admiral that they may be considered for a just
reward of their service. H.M. having directed that Col. Hunter
Col. Dudley in concert with Col. Nicholson draw out what money
is found in any of H.M. offices of receipt in ye severall Governments,
Ordered that a copy of that Instruction with a warrant from ye
sd. Governours severally in joynt with Coll. Nicholson and receipt
thereupon shall be ye sufficient warrant for the drawing out the
money accordingly. The Councill recommended it to ye Governments of New York, ye Jerseys, Connecticut and Rhode Island
to make ye same orders to prevent ye assisting and harbouring
deserters as is made in the Goverment of ye Massachusets. The
Councill of Warr having proceeded in what as yet appear'd
necessary for ye service, and it b(e)ing absolutely necessary that
the severall Governors all take care in their particular provinces.
What shall appear farther necessary for ye service of ye land
Expedition and referd to H.E. Governour Hunter and General
Nicholson, Coll. Schuyler or any other members of ye Board that
can be present at any time to be there concluded and proceeded
in from time to time. Ordered that the troops of Connecticut
when they returne from ye present expedition shall deliver the
arms the Queen shall furnish them with to ye Governor of Connecticut to be kept by him for H.E. Governour Hunter's order,
unless H.M. shall order them to be a part of her Royall bounty
to them. Col. Dudley is desired to adjust ye accounts of Mr.
Borland, H.M. agent for ye contingent charges, from the time of
Col. Nicholson's last departure to the Generall's arrivall, and
direct Mr. Borland to draw them fair fitt to be signed by Col.
Nicholson and Col. Dudley that they may be thereupon discharged
either by money of H.M. drawn out of ye offices of receipt, or by
bills of Exchange home. Payment of servants attending the Congress ordered. At ye breaking up of ye Congress, Col. Nicholson
desired that Col. Dudley would imediately upon the arrivall of
General Hill attend him with the minutes of the Congress, the
proceedings of the Generall Assembly of the Massachusets, and
that Col. Saltonstall and Col. Cranston will do ye same for their
severall Governments, and that Coll. Hunter will likewise give
him account of his proceedings on ye land service towards
the Wood Creek, etc. Agreed in Councill that if ye buisness of
the Governments of Connecticut will allow it, Govr. Saltonstall
is desired to bring up his own troops to Albany his presence there
being judged a good service to ye Expedition or in a short time
after ye march of his forces from hence. Signed. Ro. Hunter, J.
Dudley, Fr. Nicholson, G. Saltonstall, Saml. Cran(s)ton. [C.O.
5, 536. No. 13.] |
June 21. |
894. Bishop of London to Mr. Popple. Col. Diggs and Col.
Churchill, two of the Council of Virginia being dead, recommends
Col. Edward Hill for Councillor, as was his father before him, he
being a sober good man and having one of ye best Plantations in
that Colony. Signed, H. London. Endorsed, Recd. 22nd, Read
25th June, 1711. Addressed, to Mr. Popple etc., at his office, at
the Cockpit. ½ p. [C.O. 5, 1316. No. 63; and 5, 1363. p. 304.] |
June 21. Whitehall. |
895. Lord Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Encloses Order of Council June 14, in order to the
preparation of the draught of Instruction therein mentioned.
Signed, Dartmouth. Endorsed, Recd. 21st, Read 22nd June,
1711. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. No. 36; and 5, 727. p. 259.] |
June 22. Whitehall. |
896. Wm. Popple to the Secretaryes of the Treasury. Encloses extract from Governor Hunter's letter, May 7, relating to
the subsisting of the Palatines. [C.O. 5, 1122. p. 389.] |
June 22. Bermuda. |
897. Lt. Governor Bennett to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Your Lordps'. of Dec. 1st I have received, and
laid that part of it before the Council relateing to James Briggs,
and it was the opinion and order of the Board, that the said
Briggs be brought to his triall, and if noe new matter appear agt.
him, he will be the more regularly discharged. Your Lordps.
are pleased to observe, that the Spanish mercht. who was on
board the sloop St. James (which was seized, brought in here and
condemned for illegal tradeing) and five more of the crew, were
put on shoar on the south side of Hispaniola etc., which with
submission seems to me, as if it was supposed there were noe
men that belonged to the sloop brought in her hither sufficient
to condemn her, or to prove she was without the limitts mentioned in the Act of Parliament for the encouragement of the
trade to America; to which I humbly answer that there
were five persons brought in here, that were on board the
sloop St. James when seized, vizt., Capt. Barnett St. John,
master, Tho. Bushell. passenger, Antho. Needle, boatswain,
Nich. Fortune, and Alex. Berry, sailors, all whom were att the
triall and gave evidence excepting the Master (who would remain
silent) and acknowledged (as may appear by the triall) that they
had been abt. Porto Rico and bound to St. Domingo; and as for
proveing the sloop was not within the limitts where it was owned
she was seized, the oath of Capt. Richd. Jennings (inserted in
the triall) makes it appear, and my instructions to privateers
obliges them to bring into port the master and two of the sailors
att least in order to condemn their prizes; I hope my Lords by
my answer I have not misconstrued yr. Lordps'. letter. As for
the cruell and inhumain treatment of the Spanish mercht. it was
directly contrary to my instructions given. But I never saw
H.M. printed Instructions to privateers till they came inclosed
in your Lordps'. of Dec. 1st ult. therefore must have miscarryed.
When Capt. Richardson, Commander of the privateer, was served
with H.M. writt of inhibition, which obliges him to appear before
the Lords of Appeals in 100 dayes, I discharged him out of
custody. But three others of the sailors that were said to be
active in that cruelty I called to their trialls, one of them was
acquitted, the other two I ordered to be whipt on board the same
privateer being then in harbour, and to receive 69 lashes on their
naked backs well laid on, and directed the Provost Marshall to
be present to see justice done. By the inclosed affidavit of Capt.
Roach, yr. Lordps. may percieve what dainger Antigua was att
that time in: and since a sloop has arrived here, the master of
which reports, that on the 14th inst. he mett a vessell att sea, and
on hailing understood she came from Antigua, and knowing the
Capt. went on board, who told him that on the 6th inst. he gott
away from Antigua when the French Fleet was in sight and
standing for that Island, and that the Governour and Council
expected the enemy would land that night. Capt. Roach
acquaints me that the man of warr appointed for the Leeward
Islands went up to Barbados the 1st inst., soe that he can be of
noe service, and that there were not above 600 white men in
Antigua capable of carrying arms, soe that I fear that Island has
been plundered, and wish the French may goe noe further. This
news comeing early to me gave me the thoughts of giveing notice
to Curisoa, which I did by ordering a sloop to be imediately
fitted out att noe charge to the publick, and only allowing a
small cargo to be put on board to defray wages etc., which consisted
of 750 bushells of Indian corne, 30 barlls. of porke, and 10 barlls.
of train-oyle, as appears by inclosed, and hope I have comitted
no fault in permitting the same. I have precautioned the
master and sailors that they take care that they bring nothing
back with them that ought not to be imported, for that the
vessell according to custome shall not be only strictly searched.
but that masters and men shall be sworn to the due performance
of that injunction. I have severall times been told by prisoners
that have been carryed into Martinique, that whilst there they
were examined by the Governour into the nature of our fortifications, numbers of inhabitants, how furnished with ammunition,
and what part of the Island was most dangerous as to rocks, and
such-like questions, and was informed that there has been a
resolution of attempting this Island. which fell for want of
pilotts. But what startled me most is: a Bermuda vessell being
taken amongst the Bahama Islands about 3 months since, by a
Spanish privateer belonging to Barico on the Island of Cuba, and
dureing the master's confinement there, (whose name is Xtopher
Luther) the Capt. of the privateer would often be discoursing
him abt. Bermuda, and asking questions relateing to the strength
of the Island: and att last told him he knew this country as well
as he, and that he did not doubt but with five vessells well man'd
he could take or plunder the greatest part of the Island, and added
that he very well knew the new fishing ground or ledge, that the
inhabitants dureing the sommer season daily frequent, and that
it was just out of sight of land, and seldome less than thirty boats
there, which he said he would take, secure, and put on board [on]
his men, and in the evening stand for the shoar as if the boats
were comeing home from fishing, and soe unsuspected would
land 500 men or more according to the number of boats (which
generally one with another will carry 30 men each) whilst the
other privateer vessells and boats were makeing the best of their
way after them: Now my Lords everything the Capt. told Luther
was a directly truth in all its particulars, and the way he proposed
to surprise us must have taken place, and noe doubt but there
has been some designe and consultations about takeing this
country, and that was the way prescribed. Upon this information
I issued out a proclamation forbiding all persons goeing a fishing
on the new ledge till leave from me granted, thereby to prevent
that designe: and will take all possible care that we be in a
readiness least we should be invaded. This country now is much
weaker as to men than it has been, a great many haveing died
within these two years, and being in generall seafareingmen, one
half are always abroad, and should this Island be taken it lies
soe much in the way to intercept all trade both goeing into and
out of the West Indies that the loss would be of very evill consequence, and doe pray yr. Lordps'. consideration. What I
would humbly propose is (but hope it will not be thought I mean
it only for my own advantage, but sincerely for the service) that
H.M. Independt. Company here (which now consists of but 50
private sentinells) may be made up 100 with allowance of three
serjts. and three corplls. (now but two), and then with the troop
I shall always have abt. 160 granideers in a very little time
together, which may entertain and prevent an enemys landing
till the Militia regiment of foot can gett together and come to
our assistance. Mr. Noden can informe yr. Lordps. of the
weakness of the town and how easy it is to land. If it should be
thought fitt to make that addition to the Company, I presume it will
be done by drawing soe many men out of a company from regimts.
att Portsmouth or Plymouth, and embarke them in some man
of war bound for the West Indies: if soe I pray the officers may
not send what men they please, but that young fellows that are
handycrafts and tradesmen may be chose, which would prove of
great advantage to this country. Encloses papers relating to
the St. James. I have been disappointed of haveing the acct. of
fortifycations and stores transcribed, the person whom I depended
on has not been in a condition these severall months, and we have
been soe much put to it for want of clarks, and the chief (Mr.
Milburne) being likewise sick, that I have been obliged to take
minutes and read papers in Council. I have ordered the Capts.
of the Castle and forts to bring in their accts. of the last year's
expence of stores, soe that the accts. I shall send as soon as can
be done, will come compleat to the 1st. Signed, Ben. Bennett.
Endorsed, Recd. 28th July, Read Aug. 1st, 1711. Holograph.
4 pp. Enclosed, |
897. i. Certificate of the clearing of the sloop Anne for Anguilla,
June 25, 1711. Referred to in preceding. Endorsed,
Recd. July 30, 1711. 1 p. |
897. ii. Copy of deposition of George Roach, merchant, of
Philadelphia, June 19, 1711. At Antigua deponent
saw the affidavit of some privateersmen who had landed
at Martinique and observed the French to be very busy
upon some design. On June 2nd one Capt. Paine in
a ship from Guiny with about 28 sailors was attacked
by a French privateer sloop with 130 men, to windward
of Antigua, whom he fought from 10 in the morning till
4 in the afternoon, in sight of the Island, and then the
Frenchman sheered off, leaving three men wounded on
the ship's deck, one of which, examined at Antigua, and
finding death approaching, declared that there were
four ships and fifteen sloopes fitting out at Martinique
with 2000 men with designe to attack Antigua, and were
to rendezvous at Grommorne, the northernmost part
of Guardalupa, and that the attempt was to be made on
the 14th or 15th inst. etc. Signed, George Roach.
Endorsed, Recd. July 30th, 1711. 1½ pp. [C.O. 37, 9.
Nos. 20, 20 i., ii.; and (without enclosures) 38, 7. pp.
21–29.] |
June 22. Bermuda. |
898. Lt. Governor Bennett to [? Lord Dartmouth.] Refers
to previous letters and repeats part of preceding. Signed, Ben.
Bennett. Holograph. 4 pp. Enclosed. |
898. i. Duplicate of No. 566 ix. |
898. ii. Duplicate of No. 897 ii. [C.O. 37, 28, Nos. 7, 7 i., ii.] |
June 22. Antigua. |
899. Isaac Royall to Mr. Ayonn. I had sent you copies of
my last per this opportunity but cannot come att them att
present, having putt them underground five weeks since, and dare
not take them up as yett. The Loyalists since my last have been
under dismall apprehensions of their being all murdered, and not
without sufficient grounds for their fears, it so alarmed us that
Col. Thomas Newell, Mr. John Wright, and Leonard Burroughs
gott off privately for Barbadoes and severall for the Island of
St. Christophers, and severall more were designed off with myself,
but the 2nd of this instant att night just as we were going to
embarque, Capt. Peter Buer came up with an express from
Mountserratt, that the French with 2 shipps, a brigantine and 20
sloops were preparing to invade this Island, att which we resolved
to stay and see the event, the 3rd there was an alarm made, and
two expresses sent to Barbadoes for the Larke which was gone
there, who carried 40 souldiers with her, and the Barbadoes
mann of warr; the Barbadoes men of warr being all on their
cruise, and Norbury unrigged in the Road. The Newcastle on her
cruise mett with two of the French shipps and 5 sloops under
Dominico, and engaged them, one of the ships had 36 guns, the
Newcastle fired 9 rounds, his Lieutnt. and 9 of his men were
wounded, the head of his foremast splitt, what damage he did
the French as yett unknown, after his return to Barbadoes he
immediately refitted and took on board our souldiers, and 100
of the best of Norbury's men, and came down and arrived att
Falmouth the 13th, and went immediately to visitt the Leeward
Islands, and as yett we have no newes of him, nor from the
Leeward Islands. Wee have great reason to fear the French
have been att some of them; yesterday ye Guernsey and Sweepstakes arrived from Barbadoes and went immediately to Leeward,
the Virgin Queen was sent out to look into the French harbours,
as yett not returned, 'tis feared she is taken, there were two
expresses sent to Nevis to the Lt. Generall to desire him to come
up, but as yett not arrived here. We have been encamped ever
since the 3rd instant, and so were all the Lwd. Islands when we
had the last advice., Capt. Whaley has been gone for Martinico
in a truce 24 dayes and as yett no news of him; Bermingham
has putt the French on this attempt—by the men of warr yesterday from Barbadoes we recd. advice that one of the London
fleett was arrived there, that he left the fleett att Maderas, but
that our Genl. was not with them, which gives us a great concern,
and when he does come, if he does not bring a sufficient number
of souldiers with him, his coming I fear will be of little service to
H.M., or her faithfull subjects here, as you may judge by the
following discourse, and hope you'l lay the whole matter before
H.M., most humbly imploring her most gracious and speedy
protection for our lives and estates, all persons are in fear if they
should write, and the knowledge of it come to any of the Rebells'
ears before a protection should come from H.M., 'twould prove
fatall to them. Justice Gateward dyed two dayes since, having
never recovered the bruises he recd. the 7th of Dec., as he declared
just before his death. Capt. John Duer since his arrivall from
England is a mighty man in the interest of the Rebells, speaks
largely in their behalfs, and 'twas reported he was to head the
windwd. rebells, att which report his sister Major Blizard's wife
went the latter end of May to him, and told him of it and many
other reports. Duer told her 'twould be necessary that some of
the Loyalists should be taken off. Mr. Richard Cochran, one of
their old faction, who lately came from Barbados, has given
himself a great deal of liberty on this occasion; he told Cp. John
Wickham att Parham after some discourse, that ye devill was in
them (meaning the Rebells) that they did not cutt all the
Loyalists' throats, when they murthered the Generall. On the 1st
inst. they made a great feast att Barnacle point, where were most
of the heads of the Rebells, att which feast they invited all the
poor people farr and near, the vilest and most despicable fellows
were there to the number of 80 odd, which strangely alarmed us;
and att that meeting Archibald Cochran and Fra. Carlisle made
a speech, and told them, they were glad to see so many hearty
brave fellowes together, that they would fain know what force
could make them prisoners, if they stood by one another, and
invited them to another feast att Barry Tankerd's where there
were to be killed 2 oxen, and the next att Dickinson's bay, a
treat of Jacob Morgon's, and the next att Willoughby bay to be
Capt. John Duer's, all just after the old manner, which was done
some time before they murthered the Generall, wch. you know
perfectly well. |
The deposition of Mrs. Jane Dixon, widow. taken the 19th
inst.:—On the 2nd inst. Edwd. Chester Senr., one of the Assembly,
came to her house, she, seeing him under a great concern, asked
what was the matter with him, if there were any new plotts on
foott again, as she believed there were. Chester replyed he had
that day received a very severe check, because he was nott att
the fish feast at Barnacle point, the day before, and that he saw
nothing but hell and villainy in every place amongst them, and
that he did not know what to think. Dixon replyed that she
hoped, if there were a plott to cutt off some families, he would
not joyn with them in so horrid and hellish a piece of wickedness.
Chester replyed, No, he would rather be drawn to pieces with
horses than joyn with them. Dixon replyed, Suppose you should
murther 20 or 30 families, as she supposed was their design, what
would become of them, where would they goe, to Madagascar?
Chester replyed smiling, nearer home to Monsieur, att wch.
Dixon, I apprehend you very well,—but you may depend
that the French King on this occasion will not protect one
of them, for the French in generall detest the action, Mr. Chester
replyed, sd. Dixon, if there be such a design on foott and you doe
not joyn with them, you must expect to be murthered. Chester
replyed, who questions that? I know it, and expect no other, and
farther said that if something extraordinary did not prevent it,
she would see within some months, nay weeks, more blood and
murther in this place than had been known in a thousand years
in any place of the like bigness; farther replyed sd. Chester, the
next Tuesday there is to be another hellish meeting, where he
was summoned to be, but he would not goe near them, and that
everyone was to carry their armes under a pretence of firing att a
mark. Farther Mrs. Dixon deposeth, that one Mark Biggs,
Chester's bookkeeper, told her that he knew most of their secretts,
and that their design att the next meeting was to swear all they
could to their secretts and then to divulge their design, and that
they were resolved to receive the new Generall with sword and
pistoll, farther that they had sent Col. Perry, the Surveyor Genl.,
to Barbadoes on purpose to learn the first advice from England,
and that if they understood that the Queen had given orders to
take up the heads or to punish any of them, they would destroy
all they supposed to be against them, and leave the Island with
what they could carry off with them, etc. Signed, Isaac Royall,
2¾ pp. [C.O. 152, 42. No. 65.] |
June 24. |
900. Petty expences of the Board of Trade, postage,
stationery, coal etc. Lady-day to Midsummer. 1711. v. Journal
of Council. 6 pp. [C.O. 388, 76. Nos. 118–121.] |
June 24. Barbados. |
901. Governor Lowther to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I arrived the 22nd instant, etc. Here is advise that the
French were making great preparations at Martinique and
Guardaloup to invade some of H.M. Leward Islands. I have
sent my Lord Dartmouth all the particulars I can learn, etc.
P.S. I will lay before your Lordships the state of this Island as
soon as may be. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Endorsed, Recd.
Aug. 6, Read Sept. 12, 1711. Addressed. Sealed. Postmark.
Holograph. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 13. No. 63; and 29, 12. p. 367.] |
June 24. Barbados. |
902. Same to [? Lord Dartmouth.] Repeats part of preceding
and Nos. 877 ii. and iii., and 891 i. The Jamaica convoy
which came in company with me went from hence 23rd inst. for
Antegoa; it consists of one third-rate, and two fourth-rates, and
I sent the Burlington a fourth-rate along with them; this I
judged was for H.M. interest because on May 17th when I was
at Medera, I was there informed that M. du Cass had been there
about a month before in a ship of 70 guns that had 500 men on
board and a great number of officers, but I could not learn to
what part of West-Indies he was bound, nor have I since heard
anything of him: I hope H.M. will have a very good account of that
invasion, if the men of warr have the good fortune to arrive in
time, etc. Signed, Rob. Lowther. Holograph. 4 pp. [C.O. 28,
43. No. 59.] |
June 25. Whitehall. |
903. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Enclose draught of Instructions for the Governor of Maryland
relating to the guage of tobacco hogsheads and an Agent, (v.
No. 906.) Annexed, |
903. i. Draught of Instructions referred to supra. [C.O. 5,
727. pp. 264–272; and (without enclosure) 5, 721.
No. 12.] |
June 25. Antigua. |
904. Lt. Governor Hamilton to Lord Dartmouth. Since
my last the French landed at Mountseratt on the 14th instant with 1200 men by the best information I can gain from
their prisoners that are taken (being two Captains and six men
belonging to privateer sloops). They likewise acquaint me that
their first designe was for this Island, but the Newcastle man of
warr on the 3rd inst. haveing mett with their fleet consisting of
two ships, a brigantine and severall sloops off of Martinico did
engage and so disable the ships that they could not proceed on
the intended expedition, after which the Captain of the Newcastle
made the best of his way to Barbados, where meeting on the
9th instant with the express I sent, and one from the Lt. Governor
of this Island, he made all the dispatch he possibly could, and
came downe so seasonably that he left Mountseratt in order to
come to me (haveing first called here) about 12 a clock at night
when the enemy landed about four in the morneing at a place
called Carr's Bay, the North part of the Island, marching in the
morneing to the southward, where they were mett and stop'd at
a pass or gutt by a party of the inhabitants consisting at first
of about 60 men under the command of one Capt. George Wyke;
our number increasing every moment at said pass hindered the
enemy from comeing forward, upon which the President of the
Councill sent immediately a sloop as an express to give me an
acct., which no sooner reached the Island but the man of warr
went under sayle, so that I could not get to towne before she was
gone. I would have followed in a sloop, but that the Councill
and as many officers as were present came in a body and desired
that I would not runn so great a risque, the enemy haveing their
privateers everywhere, which I submitted to after haveing well
considered the consequence that would attend it should I be
taken, and then wrote immediately to the Captain of the Newcastle that it would be very much for H.M. service that he should
fetch me up and carry me to the place I thought might be most
in danger (which I take to be this Island) who thereupon returned
the 18th inst. giveing an account that the enemy was gone before
he could get thither, however not knowing the damage the enemy
had done the Island, and what further attempt they might make
thereon I immediately embarked and proceeded to the said Island,
where wee arrived the 20th and sayled the day following for this
place least the enemy might make any attack here, and in our
voyage mett off of the old Road H.M.S. the Guernsey and Sweepstakes all belonging to the Barbados station; the Lark the only ship
belonging to this station not being fitted I desired the Captain of
the Newcastle to let one of the said ships of warr remain with me
till the returne of the Larke, wch. he has readily granted ordering
the Sweepstakes to stay. Since my arrivall wee have not seen or
heard of any privateer and the Governor of Martinico, I have
reason to believe has stopp'd two flaggs of Truce which I sent
with prisoners to be exchanged. The first has been gone from
this Island 28 days, and the other from Nevis 18, which is the
usuall time allowed for the returne of Truces, so I am doubtfull
they design to make a second attempt on some Island or other,
haveing had time by this to refitt their two disabled ships, and
are reinforced by another ship of 30 guns that arrived there on
the 4th instant from the coast of Guinia as wee are informed by
the prisoners that were taken that day in another ship of 18 gunns
comeing from the same coast in sight of Fort St. Peirre, and the
other ship by the Sweepstakes man of warr, her cargoe being slaves,
upon which I have again intreated the captain of the Newcastle
to leave an order likewise with the captain of the Guernsey (who
is now at St. Christopher's watering his ship) to remaine for some
few days amongst these Islands, and to observe such orders and
directions as he shall from time to time (whilst he stays) receive
from me, till the returne of one of the Truces or such time that
I have an acct. that their designe is frustrated and quite over,
which he has not only granted, but in all other respects plainly
demonstrated his zeal and regard for H.M. service and the defence
and protection of these Her Islands, especially by his expedition
in comeing to the relief thereof, which I do assure your Lordship
has been a most signall peice of service to these Islands, they
being in a great measure thereby secured, particularly Mountseratt
which I doubt the enemy would not have quitted so easily had
they not feared the loss of their vessells by his geting amongst
them, which I cannot but remark to yor. Lordship in justice to
Capt. Bourne. The Island of Mountseratt has suffered but little by
the enemy's descente, having lost only 50 or 60 negroes that went
into them, neither was there more than two of the inhabitants
and one malato slave killed, nor was there more than one house
burnt or damaged. The enemy lost at least 60 or 70 men by
what wee can apprehend from the prisoners that were taken, of
which number 19 were found dead at the place where they
engaged, so that whether this will discourage them from makeing
any further attempt is uncertain, but nevertheless I shall prepare
for their reception, from which your Lordship may plainly
perceive that these Collonys cannot be protected or the trade to
and from the same secured without there be a greater number of
men of warr appointed to attend this station, as I intimated in
my former letters, etc. Signed, W. Hamilton. 4 pp. [C.O.
137, 51. No. 46; and 152, 42. No. 66.] |
June 25. Antigua. |
905. Same to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Duplicate of preceding. Signed, W. Hamilton. Endorsed, Recd. 5th,
Read 12th Sept., 1711. [C.O. 152, 9. No. 76; and 153, 11.
pp. 362–366.] |
June 26. Kensington. |
906. H.M. Additional Instructions to the Governor of
Maryland. Quote Representation, No. 903, which is approved
of. Conclude:—It is out will and pleasure, that after the
receipt hereof, you recommend to the next General Assembly
the passing an Act or Acts for preventing the cropping of tobacco
hogsheads, and for reducing the Maryland hogsheads to the size
of those made in Virginia, and that you take care the penalty for
the breach of either of the said Laws be the same. Our further
will and pleasure is, that some fitt person residing here be
appointed Agent for that Province, who being fully impowered
and instructed, may from time to time as occasion shall require,
take care of and negociate all such matters as may concern the
said Province. Signed, A.R. [C.O. 324, 32. pp. 94–98.] |
June 27. Barbados. |
907. Mr. Lillington to Lord Dartmouth. The illness under
which I have laboured for these last six months prevented me
from delivering up the Seal and other Regalia of this Government
to H.E. Rob. Lowther etc.; yet I cannot but express my great
satisfaction that a person of his judgement, experience and
integrity succeeds to accomplish and improve that Union which
all my endeavours have been towards cultivating amongst a
people soe dismally divided when I came first to the Government.
If my actions have been without private designs and interest (the
chief occasions of the distractions of this Island), if I have not
been or can charge myself with oppression in retaliation of the
many barbarities I have suffer'd under colour of H.M. authority
from many of this place, etc., I flatter myself I shall meet with
such an approbation of my administration from your Lordship,
as will be the most acceptable to me of anything in this world.
My age and present sickness (if I ever gett over it) will render me
unable any more to attend the publick servis, which I hope your
Lordship will think a reasonable excuse for my desiring to be
discharg'd therefrom, since I have bore the honour of being a
member of H.M. Councill of this Island for 25 years, in which
time I never enjoyed a post or office of profitt; and if your Lordship will give me leave to recommend my eldest son George to be
a Member of the Councill in my stead, I shall willingly resign, etc.
Signed, G. Lillington. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 43. No. 60.] |
June 27. |
908. Mr. Seymour to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
In reply to June 19, encloses following. I am very certain if
any one could inform me particularly, it must be Capt. Hyde,
who knows the Governours revenue pretty perfectly, having been
correspondent to Coll. Blackiston and my father. But all
accounts of that Province have been of late so neglected, that it
is impossible for anyone to make a computation but by guess.
Signed, Ber. Seymour. Endorsed, Recd. Read June 27, 1711.
1 p. Enclosed, |
908. i. Capt. Hyde to Berkeley Seymour. I have made a
farther enquiry at the Custome-house and of the Lord
Baltemore. But neither of them hath any accot. of the
shipps cleared at Maryland since the decease of your
good father. I can only guess by what I have recd.
from the President of the Councel of Maryland that from
July, 1709 to the date of Coll. Corbett's Commission the
halfe of 9d. per hhd. may amount unto about £400 to
£450 etc. Signed, John Hyde. Endorsed, Recd. Read
June 27, 1711. ½ p. [C.O. 5, 717. Nos. 39, 40; and
5, 727. pp. 272–274.] |
June 28. Treasury Chambers. |
909. Mr. Lowndes to Mr. Popple. My Lord Treasurer desires
to know upon what termes the Palatines were sent to New York.
I have his Lordp's. commands to acquaint you that the printer
shall have orders to send to the Office of Trade the Acts desired
by you in your letter of yesterday's date, as soon as I am informed
what number it is you want of them. Signed, Wm. Lowndes.
Endorsed, Recd. June 28, Read July 2, 1711. Addressed. ¾ p.
[C.O. 5, 1050. No. 22; and 5, 1122. p. 394.] |
June 28. Whitehall. |
910. Lord Dartmouth to the Governor of Maryland.
Encloses Instructions of June 26th, to be communicated to the
General Assembly, etc. Signed, Dartmouth. [C.O. 324, 32.
p. 99.] |
June 29. Whitehall. |
911. Mr. Popple to Lt. Governor Spotswood. Acknowledges
letters etc. of Dec. 15, 1710, March 6th and 20th, 1711, all which
the Lords Commissioners of Trade and Plantations will take into
consideration, and then lay before H.M. what is requisite, for her
pleasure thereupon. In the mean while the two Addresses you
mention, March 6, to have transmitted to Col. Blakeston from
the Council and from the Assembly of Virginia have been presented to her. As to what you write in relation to the sending
of your dispatches by the packet boats or by other conveyances,
you will perceive by the enclosed Proclamation how the conveyance of letters throughout all H.M. Dominions is at present
regulated, which will be a guide to you in all future occasions.
You will perceive by my letter of Jan. 29 what their Lordships'
opinion was in relation to the passing of a law for raising of a
fund to be imploy'd in the iron manufacture, to which I have
only to add that their Lordships are not sorry the last Assembly
did nothing in that matter, for unless there be other reasons than
what do occur to their Lordships at present, they do not see it
will be for the advantage of this Kingdom, that such an undertaking should be incouraged in the Plantations. [C.O. 5, 1363.
pp. 324, 325; and (rough draft) 5, 1335. pp. 122, 123.] |
June 29. Whitehall. |
912. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Hunter.
We have at present your letters etc. of May 7 under our consideration, in order to our laying before H.M. what shall appear
necessary in relation to both your Governments, so that till we
have gone through the whole, and H.M. pleasure be declared
thereupon, we shall not be able to give you particular answers etc.
We have laid before my Lord High Treasurer what you write in
relation to the Palatines, and shall do what further lies in our
power, that may promote the imploying of those people in the
production of Naval Stores. As to your desire that your Salary
and other expenses may be paid out of the money in the Collector's
hands, we must refer you to what was writ you, Jan. 29, to which
we have only to add, that all money levyed in the Plantations,
by virtue of the Act for encouraging the trade to America, as duties
on prize goods, is appropriated and made a fund for loans and
cannot be otherwise disposed of. We have received from the
Board of Ordinance the extract of a letter from you to the Duke
of Marlbro' (v. June 18.), upon which we must take notice, that
you ought to have sent to us a copy of the said account as you
are required to do by your Instructions. You ought at the same
time to have transmitted an estimate of each particular species
of arms or ordinance stores that are wanting, and also to have
explained whether this account comprehends the remains of
stores that are at Albany and Schenectady, as well as at New
York, otherwise it is very difficult to apportion what is necessary
to be sent. We transmitted to you, March 16, H.M. Order in
Council confirming the Act for ascertaining the place of sitting of
the General Assembly of New Jersey, so that that matter is now
at an end. As to what you write in relation to the Court of
Chancery, and to the Members of the Council being Judge
Assistants in the Supream Court, and to the inconveniencies that
arise thereby, we can only observe that by your Commissn. you
are empower'd and authorized to erect, with the advice and
consent of the Council, such Courts of Judicature as you and they
shall think fit, and to appoint Judges, Justices etc. So that if
you find any inconvenience by the present constitution of the
Supream Court, your Commission and Instructions in that
behalf will be your best guide. We desire that you would send
us by the first conveyance, a complete collection of all the laws
of New York since ye year 1691. We have only to add that
hereafter in your correspondence with us it will be more easy and
proper, that what you write relating to each of your Governments,
be in separate and distinct letters. [C.O. 5, 1122. pp. 391–394.] |
June 29. Whitehall. |
913. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Dartmouth.
Enclose extract from Lt. General Hamilton's letter of April 5,
relating to the need of stores of war. [C.O. 153, 11. p. 346.] |
June 29. Whitehall. |
914. Mr. Popple to Mr. Burchett. Encloses extracts from
Lt. General Hamilton's letters (April 5 etc.) relating to the need
of ships of war for the protection of the Leeward Islands, to be
laid before the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. I am
to desire you will move their Lordships that the Lords Commrs. of
Trade may be informed of the number and rates of the ships of
war or sloops appointed for the service of each of the Government(s) in America, whereby their Lordships may be better
enabled to return answers to such letters as shall be writ to them
from time to time by the Governors of ye said Plantations. [C.O.
153, 11. p. 347.] |