|
Feb. 1. Bideford. |
193. Mayor and merchants of Bideford to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. The Newfoundland Fishery has for a
long time past, been the principal trade of this town. Tho' not
carried on for some years to so great a degree as formerly by reason
of the late warr; however during the intervall of the Peace
concluded at Reswick, wee did send a great many ships to that
country, during which time severall were burnt and carried off by
pyratts. Wee now haveing a Peace settled again, shall this season
fitt out again about 30 sayle or upwards on that trade, and being
still doubtfull of falling into the same misfortune of being attackt
by pyratts or other enemies, doe humbly pray your Lordships to
procure a man of warr to be at Ferryland, during the fishing
season. The last year Capt. Wade in the Adventure was there,
and did then give such demonstrations of his care and ability,
etc., that we could heartily wish he might be the person imployed,
etc. Signed, Cha. Davie, Mayor and 32 others. Endorsed, Recd.
23rd, Read 28th Feb., 17 14/15. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5.
No. 61.] |
Feb. 1. |
194. Mr. Campbell to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
In reply to Mr. Popple's request of Jan. 27th for information
about Newfoundland, refers to his previous communications to
the Board, etc. Signed, James Campbell. Endorsed, Recd. 1st
Read 28th Feb., 17 14/15. 3½ pp. Enclosed, |
194. i.–vi. Duplicates of Nos. 179 iv.–ix. |
194. vii. Memorial of the Commissioned Officers of the
Garrison of Placentia to Lt. Governor Moody. 12th
Oct., 1714. State the hardships they be under owing to
the small subsistence allowed, in so cold a country where
provisions are scarce and dear, etc. "We must have
starved this winter, had you not furnished us at your
own expence with necessarys, having received none
since the 24th April last from the Government." Request
him to represent the absolute necessity of their having
their whole pay remitted to them once a year. "Without which it will be hardly possible for an officer to
subsist in this cold frozen climate, where we are lock'd
up in ice from all succour and refuge, for above six
months in a year." Signed, Robt. Ballenden, Fort
Major, and 9 others. ¾ p. |
194. viii. Petition of the soldiers of the Four Companies at
Placentia to Lt. Governor Moody. Oct. 14, 1714. Your
Honour having made us truely sensible of our great
crime and breach of duty upon 30th Augt., and having
furnished us at your own proper cost with the necessarys
for our subsistence, which was the only reason which
moved us to take such unbecoming measures, for which
we are all very sorry and ashamed, especially since
we are so fully convinced we have been misled by
persons of mutinous and self-interested principals, etc.,
beg you to represent home the miserable condition of
of our clothing, etc., and that we may have our subsistance at least six months in advance, as also some small
allowance to such of us as have wives and children,
etc. 1 p. |
194. ix. Lt. Governor Moody's report of the rude and mutinous
conduct of Capt. Thos. Philipps, 1713, 1714. His
mutinous behaviour encouraged about 150 soldiers
to march upon the Fort, Aug. 30, 1714, to demand
clothes, provisions, rum, beer and repair of the barracks,
quelled by Col. Moody as in preceding. Signed, J.
Moody. Copy. 3 pp. |
194. x. Lt. Governor Moody's report upon Mr. Horneck,
Engineer of the garrison. On July 22, 1714, at the
Governor's table and without provocation he threw
two glasses into the face of Mons. Pike, the French
interpreter attending M. de Costabelle. As he refused
to make reparation, Col. Moody promised Mons. de
Costabelle to send him to England, etc. Placentia, Oct.
14, 1714. Signed, J. Moody. 2 pp. |
194. xi. Testimonial by Capt. Owen, H.M.S. Solebay, in
favour of Lt. Governor Moody. Solebay at St. Helen's,
Dec. 18, 1714. Signed, Wm. Owen. Copy. 1 p. |
194. xii. Report by Archibald Cumings commending Lt.
Governor Moody's conduct at Placentia in 1714. Jan.
22, 1715. Signed, Archd. Cumings. 2¾ pp. |
194. xiii. (a) Lt. Governor Moody to Francis Gwyn, H.M.
Secretary at War. Placentia, Sept. 29, 1714. Encloses
an account of his disbursements, April 25, 1713–Sept.
10th, 1714, on behalf of the Garrison, etc. Signed,
J. Moody. Encloses, |
(b) Lt. Governor Moody to the Lord High Treasurer.
Placentia, Sept. 22, 1714. The soldeiers having nothing
to drink but water and no subsistance, they have
mutined. To appease them I have been forced to
purchase molasses to brew beer for them to the value
of £251 12s. 6d. sterl., without which the severity of the
frozen cruel winter, and their drinking only water
thaugh'd from ice, would infallibly have killed most of
the Garrison. I have presumed to draw bills upon your
Lordship for that sum, which I hope your Lordship
will think reasonable to pay, being in proportion not
above half what has been usually allowed for beer to the
late garrison at St. John's. Signed, J. Moody. Copy.
The whole, 3 pp. |
194. xiv. (a) Capt. John Moody's application to Sir William
Windham Bart. H.M. Secretary at War. Gives details
of his service and asks for the command at Newfoundland, etc. Copy. 1½ pp. Encloses, |
(b) An account of Capt. Moody's services in Newfoundland etc., v. C.S.P. 1704–9. Quotes the Duke of
Marlborough in reply to his request for a company in the
regiment of Guards in Flanders to which he belonged:—Aug. 21st, 1710. Sr. I am very sensible of your services
and merit, which I should be likewise glad to encourage;
But the post you desire was disposed of before I received
yor letter to the eldest Lieutenant here, who hath
served long, and was very much wounded at the Battle
last year, which is a peice of Justice yourself would
scarce have been willing to oppose. Signed, Marlborrough. Copy. 3½ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 65, 65
i.–xv.; and (without enclosures) 195, 5. pp. 480–495.] |
Feb. 2. St. James's. |
195. H.M. Warrant appointing William Wright Commissary
of the Musters of the Garrison at Annapolis. Copy. Countersigned, James Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 39, 40.] |
Feb. 3. St. James's. |
196. H.M. Warrant renewing appointment of Col. John
Moody as Lt. Governor of Placentia. Countersigned, James
Stanhope. Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. p. 39.] |
Feb. 4. Whitehall. |
197. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing a draught of
Instructions as usual, etc. Annexed, |
197. i. Draught of H.M. Commission for Walter Hamilton to
be Captain General and Governor in Chief of the
Leewards Islands. Westminster, 23rd Aug., 1715.
[C.O. 153, 12. pp. 153–178.] |
[Feb. 4.] |
198. John Frere to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
William Sharpe, now President of the Councill of Barbadoes,
under pretence of a personall disrespect shewne to him of which
Frere is innocent, has without any just reason suspended him and
transmitted complaints agt. him, of which he has denyed him a
coppy, etc. Prays to see these complaints, and that Governor
Lowther, in the Instructions now preparing for him, be directed
to restore him to the Council, etc. Endorsed, Recd. Read 4th
Feb. 17 14/15. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 35.] |
Feb. 4. Whitehall. |
199. Mr. Popple to the Earl of Clarendon. The Council of
Trade and Plantations desire your particular objections to the
two Acts of New York (v. Jan. 25) in writing on Tuesday morning.
[C.O. 5, 1123. p. 141; and 5, 1079. No. 80.] |
Feb. 4. Whitehall. |
200. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I am commanded to transmitt to you the inclosed
petition of Mr. Calvert, son and heir of the Lord Baltimore; and
H.M. being desirous to give all possible encouragement for the
educating in the Protestant religion the numerous issue of so
noble a family, has ordered me to signifie to you his pleasure,
that you pursue no further the directions sent you for a Commission
to Brigadier Francks to be Governor of Maryland; but that you
forthwith prepare a draught of a Commission and Instructions for
Captain. … Hart, etc. Signed, James Stanhope. Endorsed,
Recd. Read 7th Feb., 17 14/15. 1½ pp. Enclosed, |
200. i. Petition of Benedict Leonard Calvert to the King.
Petitioner renounced the Romish errors and was
received into Church of England, Nov., 1713. Lord
Baltemore, his father, resented this so much that he
withdrew £450 per annum of what he had for severall
years allowed him. Petitioner was reduced to live upon
his marriage settlement, which is but £600 per annum,
and out of which he allows his wife two, for her seperate
maintenance. Petitioner hath 6 children, four sons and
two daughters, all which his Father educated, and at
his own charge maintain'd in Popish seminaries abroad.
Petitioner has now placed them in and about London
at Protestant schools. Her late Majesty, in consideration of above, granted petitioner a pension of £300, for
the maintenance of his children during the life of his
father, aged 85. At Petitioner's request, and that he
might have some farther relief in his present
circumstances, H.M. was also pleased to appoint Capt.
John Hart, nephew to the present Archbishop of
Tuam, who had served severall years both in Spain and
Portugall, Governor of Maryland, who out of the proffits
thereof has obliged himself to render Petitioner £500
per annum. The Governmt. of Maryland is a Proprietary Government, and will be in Petitioner upon the
decease of his Father. Prays for continuation of pension
and renewal of Capt. Hart's commission, or if there is
any objection to that, that he may himself be sent as
Governor. Signed, Ben. Leo. Calvert. 1 p. [C.O
5, 717. Nos. 61, 61 i.; and (without enclosure) 5, 727
p. 440.] |
Feb. 4. |
201. Solomon Merrett to the Council of Trade and Plantations. In reply to Mr. Popple's request for information about
Newfoundland, Jan. 27, refers to previous communications. When
consulted during the peace negotiations, I gave my opinion wholly
against delivering the Island of Cape Brittaine (vulgarly now
called Cape Britton) to the French. I am informed by masters
of ships who went there last September, that very few of the
French inhabitants remain at Placentia or in the parts adjacent,
but are gone to settle on Cape Brittaine, etc. About 50 or 60
of the French inhabitants' servants remaine in Placentia, who have
lived there some years, and by some private encouragemt. from
the Governour Moody went into the woods when the French
ships were sailing and remained there till after they were gone, by
which prudent management of the Governour, these men will
shew our people in one year the fishing grounds which without
their help would be the work of many. And without that part
of the country is inhabited, which by the Peace the French have
made a cession of to us, it will not be of any advantage to our
Nation. As for our harbours, our West Country fishermen are
so well acquainted there that they will proceed in course to those
parts. So it is my humble oppinion no further improvement
can be made of all those parts at present. But for the improvement and security of those parts about Placentia, it hath always
been my opinion, that all those parts may be free to all the ships
that shal goe thither, and that they may have fishing roomes and
stage roomes as settled by the Act of Parliament in our parts,
which will be a great inducement to our West Countrey people
to goe and inhabit there and fish. That no hindrance shall be
given them by the Governour or any in authority there, but that
the fishery shall be continued and incouridged by them according
to the Act. That unless those parts be inhabited which probably
may not be by West Country men, as they have been so long used
to their old harbours, 5 or 600 of our disbanded soldiers (a great
number of which beg about the streets or take worse courses for
bread) be sent thither to settle with a small stock at the Nation's
charge, etc. That as very few of our seamen are acquainted
with those parts, the survey now on foot in which Capt. Taverner
is employed may be continued, etc., and that the draught of the
Island of St. Peters sent over by him may be forthwith published,
etc. That due and timely care be taken to send over provisions
and necessarys as soon as possible for the subsistance of the
garrison and such fortifications as shall be thought necessary to
be made, whereby the Commander in Chief may not be necessitated to do any irregular thing for the support of life, as I am
informed hath been done by some Commanders who came from
thence last Sept. and Oct. And that the officers and soldiers may
have their pay and subsistance sent them over in time as their
is no provitions or mony in that country, or credit when bills
are not paid. That as the French are fortifiying the Island
of Cape Britton, I humbly offer that we make fortifications at
Placentia and such other parts as shall be thought necessary
by the Ingineers. I am informed that complaints have been
made against Governour Moody and Capt. Taverner, which is no
new thing from Newfoundland, from whence complaints have
been frequently made and have been creditted till they have
been found out to be malicious and frivolous and the effects
of private picks and quarrells and passion, etc. I presume
your Lorps. will find these of the same nature, as both Col.
Moody and Capt. Taverner are entirely good subjects to H.M.
and Government and very well acquainted with Newfoundland,
etc. Signed, Solomon Merrett. Endorsed, Recd. 4th, Read 28th
Feb., 1714/15. 4½ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 63; and 195, 5. pp.
451–460.] |
[Feb. 4.] |
202. Archibald Cumings to the Council of Trade and Plantations. A representation of the Trade and Fishery of Newfoundland. Repeats many points previously calendared. The decay of
the Fishery the last three years and particularly the last year
has alomost ruined all the inhabitants and others concerned,
there not being a third of the quantity of fish catched as usuall
being but 80 quintalls per boate whereas wee used to catch 300,
and more boats imployed last year then in many years past being
to the number of about 1,000 and so many ships that several
went away without fish having 150 saill last year and fish so dear
that the like price was never given in Newfoundland being att
20s. pr. quintall, etc. The port of Placentia is in a miserable
condition, etc. It would be an advantage to the trade and
country to have some sivill Judicature or Government setled
among them for many immoralities are comitted fellonies and
robberies and for six months in the year no rule no Government att
all but live like heathens or barbarians and even what Justice is
distributed there, is very partiall and the method of recovering
debts prodicial for that is strongest carries all to the ruin of the
inhabitants the fishery and the rest of the creditors, and two
early shiping fish proves very detrimental and discouraging
to the inhabitants and boat keepers least all the fish should be
shiped off and the servants deprived of their wages so that no fish
should be shiped off until the 10th and 15th Aug., but from such
person where ther is no doubt of their paying ther debts, and
that where one is like to prove insolvent that one creditor be
appointed to receive all and make an equall distribution to the
other creditors, for the Admiralls prove generall (y) the greatest
knaves and do most prejudice being both judge and party,
etc. So it wold be requisite to have a sivile Government and
persons appointed to administer justice in most populous and
frequented places that they may be governed a (s) Brittains and
not live like a banditie or forsaken people without law or Gospell
having no means of Religion ther being but one clergyman in all
ye country, etc. Describes Cape Breton now called Royall
Island. The principall settlement and fortifications are Lewisburg and St. Ann where they are erecting strong fortifications
having one hundred and odd guns and 8 mortars with 7 companies
of regular troops four att Lewisbourg and three at St. Ann a
Governour Lt. Governour and Intendant at Lewisburg and a
Lt. Governour at St. Ann. They have had 3 men of warr ther
all this year fortifying and going to Placentia to carry off ther
people artillery ammunition and effects, etc. I compute above
100 familys gone from Newfoundland and near 2,000 men at Cape
Britton were they had a great fishery last year having 300 quintales pr. boat and are endeavouring to gett sloops to fish upon
the banks as the New England men do, etc. It is reported that
the French design Cape Britton to be one of ye strongest setlements abroad and will be of great advantage to them for their
ships bound to Quebeck to wood and water, or coming from the
Spanish West Indies or the South Sea, as they have done formerly
att Placentia, and on the contrary of great disadvantage to us
in case of warr, St. Peters not being 45 leagues from them,
and all the continent trade exposed, being a good rendezvous
for privateers, etc. Signed, Archd. Cumings. Endorsed, Recd.
4th, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 8 pp. Enclosed, |
202. i. Considerations on the Trade to Newfoundland. Signed,
(autograph) Archd. Cumings. Printed. London. 3¾ pp.
[C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 62, 62 i.; and (without enclosure)
195, 5. pp. 435–449.] |
Feb. 5. Admty. Office. |
203. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. The Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty being now appointing ships for the service of
Newfoundland, desire the Lords Commissioners for Trade to
consider what Instructions may be necessary for the Commander
in Chief of the said ships, etc. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed,
Recd. 7th, Read 9th Feb., 1714/15. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5.
No. 58; and 195, 5. p. 424.] |
Feb. 5. St. James's. |
204. H.M. Warrant renewing the appointment of William
Norris as Naval Officer in Jamaica. Countersigned, Ja. Stanhope.
Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 41, 42.] |
Feb. 7. Whitehal. |
205. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Reply to Jan. 26th. We have no objection why H.M.
may not appoint Sir C. Hobby Lt. Governor of Annapolis Royal,
etc. Autograph signatures. 1 p. [C.O. 217, 31. No. 14; and
218, 1. p. 153.] |
Feb. 8. Whitehall. |
206. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose following. |
206. i. Draft of Commissions for Elizeus Burges to be Governor
of the Massachusets Bay and New Hampshire. [C.O.
5, 913. p. 505; and 5, 914. pp. 149–184.] |
Feb. 8. Somerset House. |
207. Earl of Clarendon to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reasons against the Acts of New York and New Jersey
referred to Jan. 25. Money is due to complainant on account of
his salary and disbursements made for the Government when
Governor of New York. The Act of New York provides for
payments where none is due, and for part or no payment of just
debts, whilst one clause says that no demand shall be made for any
debt not there provided for, which plainly excludes complainant.
Agratuity is given by this Act for every member of the Assembly
for passing this Act, and particularly to Mr. Morris for drawing it,
etc. Asks for a copy of it. Complainant served as Governor of
New Jersey upwards of 3 years without receiving any salary,
and disbursed several sums out of his own pocket for that Government. By the late Act of New Jersey they dispose of money
remaining out of a sum granted to the Queen, which they have no
power to do, because it is the money of the Crown, and by this
Act it is ordered to be paid to the Governor, which is contrary
to his Instructions. This Act also discharges the Treasurer from
being accountable, whereas by the Governor's Instructions, all
moneys granted to the Crown by the Assembly, are to be accounted
for to the Treasury here, etc. Set out, N. Y. Col. Doc. V. 398.
Signed, Clarendon. Endorsed, Recd. Read 8th Feb., 1714/15.
2 pp. [C.O. 5, 1050. No. 77.] |
Feb. 8. Whitehall. |
208. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing draughts of
Instructions, etc. Annexed, |
208. i. Draught of H.M. Commission to Robt. Hunter to be
Governor of New York and the territories depending
thereon. [C.O. 5, 1123. pp. 142–166.] |
Feb. 9. Whitehall. |
209. Mr. Popple to Mr. Attorney General. The Council
of Trade and Plantations desire to know by to-morrow morning,
whether the Act for the incouragement of the Trade to America,
pass'd in the sixth year of her late Majesty's reign, continues
still in force. [C.O. 324, 10. p. 61.] |
Feb. 9. St. James's. |
210. H.M. Warrant renewing the appointment of Edward
Perrie as Naval Officer of the Leeward Islands. Countersigned,
James Stanhope. Copy. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 54, 55.] |
[Feb. 10.] |
211. Copy of Order of Queen in Council, Nov. 24, 1712,
restoring Alexander Skeene to his several places, etc. Endorsed,
Recd. Read 10th Feb., 1715. [C.O. 28, 14. No. 36; and 29,
13. pp. 172–174.] |
Feb. 10. |
212. Further proposals (v. Dec. 31, 1714, etc.) by Thomas
Coram, Richard Jones, etc., for settling disbanded officers and
soldiers in the County of Cornwall in North America. Signed,
Thomas Coram, Richd. Jones, Danl. Hall, Will. Armstrong,
William Burke, Samuel Ball. Endorsed, Recd. 10th, Read 15th
Feb., 1714/15. 2 pp. Enclosed, |
212. i. Estimate of the charge for settling the new Colony near
the River Sagadehock (£60,000). ¾ p. [C.O. 5, 866. Nos.
30, 30 i.; and 5, 914. pp. 5–9.] |
[Feb. 10.] |
213. Copies of papers, proclamations etc., relating to the
French inhabitants of Nova Scotia, with lists of those who
embarked for Cape Breton etc. and negotiations concerning the
same. 13th Aug.—1st Sept., 1714. Signed, Fr. Nicholson, Tho.
Caulfield, De Pensens and La Ronde Denys. Endorsed, Recd.
Read 10th Feb., 1714/15. French. 57 pp. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos.
53–81.] |
[Feb. 10.] |
214. (a) M. Duvivier to Governor Nicholson. St. Louis, Cap
Britton, 1st Dec. (N.S.), 1713. Requests him to release a ship
belonging to his brother in law, M. de Pobomcoup, detained by
Col. Vetch. Signed, Duvivier. Copy. French. 1 p. |
(b) Governor Nicholson to M. Duvivier. Annapolis Royall,
20th Aug., 1714. I have endeavoured to do M. de Pombecoup all
the justice I am at present capable of, etc. Mr. Vetch's behaviour
therein is but like most of the rest of his actions. Signed, Fr.
Nicholson. Copy. ¾ p. |
(c) Mr. l'Hirmitte to Governor Nicholson. Louisbourg, 12th
July (N.S.), 1713. According to the 14th Article of the Treaty
the inhabitants of Colonies ceded by France have liberty to
withdraw elsewhere within a year with their moveable effects,
and the Queen has since allowed such inhabitants to sell their
goods and immoveable effects, etc. Being informed by several of
the inhabitants of Port Royal, Mines, and Baubassin, that he
who commands at Port Royal in your absence has forbidden
them to go out, and even refused those who have asked his permission to do so, etc., I have sent M. de la Ronde denis Capt. of a
company of marines, to confer with you, etc. It would be
desirable that you should give orders throughout your Government that, if in time of peace any subjects of the King or other
Catholic Apostolic and Roman Nation should desert from these
Colonies to yours, they should be arrested and returned to their
master together with what they carried off. We would do the
same for the subjects of the Queen, which would prevent many
thefts, etc. Signed, l'Hirmitte. Copy. French. 2 pp. |
(d) M. St. Ovide de Brouillan to Governor Nicholson. Louisbourg, 24th July (N.S.), 1714. I have charged M. du Pensens
Capt. with preceding. He is instructed to confer with you conjointly with M. de la Ronde as to why the subjects of the King
are detained etc. Signed, St. Ovide de Brouillan. Copy. French.
1 p. |
(e) Governor Nicholson to M. de Brouillan. Annapolis
Royal, Aug. 20, 17[14]. Reply to preceding. You will see by the
Lt. Governor's report that I had taken care to send the Articles
and a copy of H.M. letter to me, to have them made publick to
all the inhabitants here as soon as possible, which has been duly
complyed with, and in my opinion they were not hindred from
withdrawing from hence, etc. Refers to papers indicated above.
As to that other part of your letter concerning deserters etc.,
I shall transmitt that home to know H.M. Royal pleasure therein,
etc. Signed, Fra. Nicholson. Copy. 1½ pp. |
(f) Governor Nicholson to Mr. I'Hirmitte. Annapolis Royal,
Aug. 20, 1714. In reply to (c), refers to preceding. Signed, Fra.
Nicholson. ½ p. The whole endorsed, Recd. Read 10th Feb.,
1714/15. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos. 82–86.] |
Feb. 11. |
215. Mr. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Reply to Feb. 9. I am of opinion that the Act
for the encouragement of the trade to America is not now in force as
to any matter whatsoever happening after the war ended, all the
parts of that Act being adapted for the time of war. Signed,
Edw. Northey. Endorsed, Recd. 12th, Read 15th Feb., 1714/15.
¾ p. [C.O. 323, 7. No. 36; and 324, 10. p. 62.] |
Feb. 11. Whitehall. |
216. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose following. We are preparing draughts of
Instructions for Governor Hunter, etc. Enclosed, |
216. i. Copy of H.M. Commission to Robert Hunter to be
Governor of New Jersey. [C.O. 5, 995. pp. 177–189;
and (covering letter only) 5, 1079, No. 81; and (without
covering letter) 5, 190. pp. 396–427.] |
[Feb. 11.] |
217. Copy of H.M. Commission and Instructions for Robert
Hunter to be Governor of New York. Countersigned, James
Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 381–395.] |
Feb. 11. Whitehall. |
218. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose draught of Commission for Governor Hart.
We are preparing draughts of Instructions, etc. [C.O. 5, 727.
p. 441.] |
Feb. 11. Whitehall. |
219. Mr. Popple to John Taylour, Secretary to the Lords
Commissioners of the Treasury. H.M. having been pleased by
his Commission, Dec. 13, 1714, to appoint the Rt. Hon. William
Lord Berkeley of Stratton, Sir Jacob Astley, Robt. Molesworth,
John Cokburne, Archibald Hutcheson, John Chetwynd, Charles
Cooke, and Paul Docminique to be H.M. Commissioners for
promoting ye Trade of this Kingdom and for inspecting and
improving ye Plantations in America and elsewhere, their Lordships desire you will move the Lords Commissioners of the
Treasury that a Privy Seal may pass as usual for their Lordps.
and the Officers under them. Mr. Bryan Wheelock has been
appointed as Deputy Secretary in the room of Mr. Drift. (v. Aug.
29, 1712). [C.O. 389, 37. p. 86.] |
Feb. 15. Whitehall. |
220. Mr. Popple to Henry Martin, Inspector General of the
Customs. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire an account
of the masts, pitch and tar imported since 1706, from the Northern
Crowns, and from H.M. Plantations in America. [C.O. 324, 10.
p. 63.] |
[Feb. 15.] |
221. John Borland of Boston, mercht., to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. As Agent Victualer for the garison at
Annapolis Royall, petitioner advanced on their account
£1,070 14s. 10¾d. during Col. Vetch's government. Genl. Nicholson
refuses to draw for their pay since 24th Aug., 1712, and has refused
with male treatment petitioner's application for his order to
the paymaster for payment of the sums due to him according
to their receipts and bills, etc. Prays for assistance, being lyable
to be arrested every day, etc. Signed, John Borland. Endorsed,
Recd. Read 15th Feb., 1714/15. 1½ pp. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 88.] |
Feb. 16. Whitehal. |
222. Mr. Popple to Sir E. Northey. Encloses for his opinion
in point of law Act of Barbados, 1708, to dock the intail of John
Lucie Blackman's estate, etc. [C.O. 29, 13. p. 174.] |
Feb. 16. Whitehall. |
223. Mr. Popple to the Earl of Clarendon. There being at
present so much business depending before the Council of Trade
and Plantations, which H.M. service requires to be dispatched
with all possible expedition; and which will take up all the hands
in the Office for a considerable time, I am to acquaint your
Lordship, that if you will send anybody to the Office, they may
copy the Acts of New York against which your Lordship has
objections. [C.O. 5, 1123. p. 166; and 5, 1079. No. 82.] |
Feb. 17. |
224. Officers concerned for the new settlement in North
America to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Reasons for
a settlement to be made on the land between the River Sagadehock
alias Kenebeck and the River St. Croix preferable to any place
between Cape Sable and Cape Briton. (1) The land all along the
coast between Cape Briton being in general so barren that the
French never thought it worth their while to make any settlement
thereon. (2) By the late Peace the tract of land desired for a
settlement seems to be left for the French who were in possession
of it before the Peace. For by the XIIth Article it is provided
Nova Scotia with its antient boundaries shall be deliver'd up to
the Crown of Great Britain now it's well known that the antient
bounds of Nova Scotia was allways understood to be the River
St. Croix. The French King's Commission to his Governour
of Nova Scotia comprehends all the land home to Kenebeck River.
And we will leave it to your Honours' wise consideration what
the consequence will be if the French should settle on those
lands between New England and Nova Scotia. We also propose
in return of H.M. goodness to us in this settlement to furnish H.M.
with as many masts and navall stores as shall amount to the
full charge of the settlement without puting H.M. to any manner
of charge unless it be for fetching them, etc., etc. Endorsed, Recd.
17th, Read 18th Feb., 1714/15. 1½ pp. [C.O. 217, 1. No. 92.] |
[Feb. 17.] |
225. Copy of H.M. Commission and Instructions for Col.
Nicholson, General of the Expedition against Port Royal, 18th
March, 1710. Endorsed, Recd. from Col. Nicholson, Read 17th
Feb., 1714/15. 2 pp. [C.O. 217, 1. Nos. 89, 90; and 218, 1.
pp. 155–163.] |
[Feb. 17.] |
226. Copy of passport given by M. Daniel Dauger de Subercase, "Gouverneur de l'Acadie de Cap Breton Isles et terres
adjacentes despuis le Cap de Roziers du fleuve St. Laurent
jusqu' a l'Ouest de la Riviere de Kainbeky," to Majors Richard
Mullins and Charles Brown, to return to England after having
conducted us to Rochelle or Rochefort, conformably to the
capitulation made between General Nicholson and us, on the
surrender of the Fort of Port Royal, 23rd Oct., 1710, etc. Signed,
Desubercase. Endorsed as preceding. French. ¾ p. [C.O. 217,
1. No. 91; and 218, 1. pp. 164, 165.] |
Feb. 18. Dartmouth. |
227. Mayor of Dartmouth to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Our merchants etc. trading to Newfoundland pray
to be heard on the scheme for that trade lately laid before your
Ldships, etc. Recommend Mr. John Roope to give information,
etc. Signed, Nath. Terry, Mayor. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd, Read
28th Feb., 1715. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 5. No. 60.] |
Feb. 21. |
228. Rebecca Taverner to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Wife of William Taverner, of Pool, H.M. Surveyor of
Newfoundland. Replies in his absence to the complaints of
William Cleeves (Dec. 23). Cleeves is alone in his complaint,
even the other two fishing Admiralls do not joyn with him therein.
Taverner has diligently fulfilled his Commission and Instructions,
etc. Endorsed, Recd. 21st Feb., Read 2nd March, 1714/15. 8 pp.
Enclosed, |
228. i. Petition of Rebecca Taverner to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. Capt. Taverner was born in Newfoundland and commanded severall merchant ships,
and in the late warr visited the French settlements
there with letters of mart, whereby he became acquainted
with their coasts and harbours, etc. Particularly he
form'd a design for surprizing some of the French
harbours there in the fishing season, and propos'd the
same to Samuel Shepherd, who sent three ships under
him and two others, and the project was perform'd
with good success. Afterwards some merchants of
London and Scotland propos'd to him to be cheif
Director of cod fishery which they intended to try on the
coast of Scotland after the manner of Newfoundland.
He was induc'd thereto because there was no protection
from the French in the winter season at Newfoundland,
for want of which he had formerly sustain'd great
losses there. In Feb. 1714, he was sent for by Mr.
Campbell, and presented to the Board of Trade who
wanted a person who was well acquainted with the
navigation and trade of Newfoundland, especially the
French parts. They with difficulty induced him to
relinquish his private business. He received his Commission, but could not obtain the settlement of his
sallary from the Lord Treasurer, etc. About the middle
of Augt. last Col. Moody's memorial relating to Capt.
Taverner's case was transmitted by the Board of Trade
to the then Secretary of State, who laid the same before
the Lords Justices. At the same time Mr. Campbell
laid the case before the Duke of Shrewsbury, then Lord
Trear. But upon some minutes found the Treasury,
entred when the Earl of Oxford was Trear., importing
that the said service, if necessary, might be performed
by Genll. Nicholson, and the Lords Justices apprehending (as is humbly presumed) that Taverner knew thereof,
and concealed the same from the Board of Trade, were
pleased to disallow his sallary. Refers to his reports,
the general satisfaction of the merchants trading to
Newfoundland with the survey, and their opinion
that it was necessary and could not be performed by
Genll. Nicholson. Capt. Taverner has made greater
progress therein than could reasonably have been
expected in so short a time, and shown great care
in lessening the expenses. He has been at very great
charges to the utter ruin of himself and family, etc.
Prays their Lordships to represent his case to H.M., that
his Commission may be renewed, his sallary established,
and his extraordinary services and expences recompensed, etc. 5 pp. |
228. ii. Certificate of Matthew Hellerd, seafaring man, in
favour of Capt. Taverner in the matter of Wm. Cleeves.
Grand Bank, Feb. 5, 1715. Signed, Mathew Hellerd.
1 p. |
228. iii. Similar certificate by John Ruston, Commander of the
good ship Tyger gally, Feb. 1st, 1715. Signed, Jno.
Ruston. 3 pp. |
228. iv. Merchants trading to Newfoundland to the Lords
Justices. Express satisfaction at the appointment of
Capt. Taverner and the scope of his commission, etc.
Signed, Robert Heysham and 18 others. Sept. 3, 1714.
1 p. |
228. v. Duplicate of preceding. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 75, 75 –v.] |
Feb. 21. |
229. Dr. Daniel and his son Samuel Cox to the Council of
Trade and Plantations. Further reason against renewing Coll.
Hunter's Commissions for the Governmts. of New York and New
Jersey. Refer to previous general charge. (Jan. 14). Continue:—Pursuant to your Ldps.' directions we now present the following
particulars, which we should have been enabled to have done
more fully had not, (to our great surprize and we suppose against
all common right), the coppys of his Commissions, some of his
Instructions and letters been denied us. (1) He turn'd out the
Sherriff of Middesex and Somersett in New Jersey and the
Sherriff of the Citty and County of New York without signifying
any cause to H.M. etc. (2) He turn'd out most of the Judges and
Justices of the Peace throughout New Jersey, without signifying
the cause to H.M. etc. or them. (3) He appointed severall new
Judges and Justices of the Peace in New Jersey and New York,
some not residing in the Province for which they were appointed,
others not fitt for those employments, but all without the advice
and consent of H.M. Council. (4) He has permitted to sitt and
act in the Assembly of New Jersey without qualifying themselves
according to the laws of England, altho such persons are by his
Commission and Instructions particularly made incapable. (5)
He has past all the laws enacted by the Assembly of both Provinces
in a stile directly contrary to his Instructions, altho otherwise
advised by H.M. Councill. (6) Not one of all the Acts for raiseing
money which he has past have been framed according to the stile
of Acts of Parliament in England, nor such money etc. mentioned
to be granted to the Queen. (7) He has permitted very great
sums of money to be issued and dispos'd of directly contrary to
his Instructions. Nor hath he taken care that books of accounts
have been duly kept and fairly attested upon oath; nor transmitted such books to the High Treasurer and Council of Trade,
etc. And hath also permitted a clause to be inserted in an Act
of New Jersey whereby the estate of the Treasurer hath been for
ever acquitted from a great sum of money then in his hands altho
the same was never accounted for. (8) He hath past severall
Acts in both Provinces directly repugnant to the laws of England,
etc. (9) He hath arbitrarily imprisoned, injur'd the freehold, and
taken away the goods of severall of the inhabitants of New Jersey,
not only without any law to justify him, but directly repugnant
to the laws of England and contrary to his Instructions. (10)
He hath erected Courts or officers of Judicature in New Jersey,
not before erected or establish'd, to the great detriment of the
inhabitants, whereby Justice has been deny'd and perverted
contrary to the Laws of England, etc. (11) He hath very much
injur'd and oppressed the inhabitants of New Jersey by the great
delay of Justice, occasion'd by his not calling a Councill in 2 years
time, tho many writts of error were depending before the Councill,
and by adjourning the Supream Court of New Jersey without
advice or consent of H.M. Councill for a whole term, contrary to
Magna Charta, etc. (12) He hath illegally order'd the restitution
of the goods of severall persons which (pursuant to an Act of
New Jersey made before he was Governour) were regularly
destrain'd. These are some few of his many mismagements,
which we can clearly prove. And many more equall, if not
greater weight we question not fully to make out, if we might
obtain a coppy of his Commission, etc. ut supra, which favour
has been granted to others, etc. Abstract. Set out, N.J.
Archives, 1st Ser. IV., 203. Signed, Dan. Coxe. Endorsed,
Recd. Read 21st Feb., 1714/15. 3¼ pp. [C.O. 5, 970. No. 170.] |
Feb. 22. Whitehal. |
230. Mr. Popple to Richard Harris. The Council of Trade
and Plantations desire you will reduce into writing what you said
to them this day in relation to the French settlements at
Hispaniola, etc. [C.O. 138, 14. pp. 171, 172.] |
Feb. 22. Whitehal. |
231. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. Enclose following. Continue:—As H.M. has been
pleas'd to dismiss William Sharpe, Alexander Walker and Samuel
Beresford from the Council, we have inserted the names of Thomas
Maycock, Guy Ball and John Lucie Blackman in the list of
Councillors, etc. Annexed, |
231. i. Draught of Instructions for Governor Lowther. Similar
to previous Instructions. [C.O. 29, 13. pp. 175–295.] |
Feb. 23. |
232. James Campbell to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Refers to Memorial of Feb. 1st. From which it will plainly appear
that altho' the Newfoundland trade and fishery is amongst the
most valuable branches, if not the first of our Brittish commerce,
yet neither the industry of those who have carried it on abroad,
nor the continual representations about it at home, nor the
notorious incroachment of our enemys upon us herein, have been
able for many years past to obtain such protection, encouragement, relief and redress as it necessarly required, whereby the
British nursery of seamen is almost ruin'd, whilst that of the
French is rais'd and growing, etc. The fishery and trade can never
be fully improv'd or sufficiently secured to great Brittain, untill it
is entirely in our own hands, and therefore I think it necessary for
the further improvement and security of it, that the publick do
embrace the first opportunity as they shall judge convenient for
obtaining it to be so. I think that the French ought to be as
narrowly watch'd, and as much straitned as possible in those parts
of it, where by the late Treaty of Peace they have still liberty
to fish, care should be taken that they do not exceed the limits
reserved to them, nor build houses, or reside there in winter.
Suggests a small fort and garrison and a sloop constantly to
attend the service of Newfoundland, or both, etc., etc. We
ought to encourage inhabitants to settle and reside there, summer
and winter. Recommends Capt. Taverner for the survey. Mr.
Shepherd senior says he never knew any other so perfectly master
of all the parts of that Fishery, etc. Placentia and the Island of
Ferryland must be fortifyed, (v. C.S.P. 1709–1711), and perhaps
the Island of St. Peters, etc. Many disorders have formerly
happen'd between the Commodores and the land officers about
their different punctilios and powers, and upon their appealls
here, it has been given sometimes one way, sometimes another,
etc. It were well that matters were now settled to prevent the
like contests for the future. Your Lordsps. will probably find
yourselves troubled annually with complaints from the masters
of ships against the officers of the garrison, etc., and as they call
it trading. I conceive that there are not necessarys for life to be
had in Newfoundland, but by means that may be deem'd trading
some way or other, and that it is the common interest that officer
and soldier and everybody that pleases shall catch and cure as
many fish as they can, as well as the Commodores and Capts. of
the King's ships. But the declaring of your Lordsps. in this
particular will save a great deall of time and trouble. Col.
Moody desires me to represent that the garrison at Placentia
is without a Chaplain, etc., etc. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd, Read 28th
Feb., 1714/15. 3 large closely written pp. Enclosed, |
232. i. An account of James Campbell's losses and sufferings
on account of the Collony and Trade of Newfoundland
(v. C.S.P. June 2, 1709). The report of the Council of
Trade in favour of petitioner was referred by H.M. Order
in Council, March 1, 1710, to the Lord High Treasurer.
But soon after the Earl of Oxford was appointed Lord
High Treasurer, and Mr. Campbell never obtained a
report thereon. 2 large closely written pp. [C.O. 194,
5. Nos. 66, 66 i.; and (without enclosure) 195, 5. pp.
496–513.] |
Feb. 23. Williamsburgh. |
233. Copies of Proclamations by Lt. Governor Spots wood
(a) continuing officers until further orders, (b) removing the embargo on export of grain, (c) dissolving the Assembly, (d) and
(June 15th) for taking up persons coming out of North Carolina
without passports, etc. [C.O. 5, 1337. No. 24.] |
Feb. 23. St. James's. |
234. Order of King in Council. Referring following to the
Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed,
John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. 25th Feb., Read 12th April, 1715.
¾ p. Enclosed, |
234. i. Petition of John Ayscough. Petitioner, having recovered his health and designing to return to Jamaica,
prays to be restored to his place in the Council, etc.
Copy. ¾ p. [C.O. 137, 10. Nos. 71, 71 i.; and 138,
14. pp. 216–218.] |
Feb. 23. Whitehall. |
235. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. H.M. having been pleased to appoint Mr. Benjamin
Bennet to be Lt. Governour of the Bermuda Islands; I desire
you will direct a draught of a Commission and Instructions to
be prepared for him, etc. Signed, James Stanhope. Endorsed,
Recd. 28th Feb., Read 2nd March, 1714/15. 1 p. [C.O. 37, 9.
No. 32; and 38, 7. p. 198.] |
Feb. 23. Whitehall. |
236. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following. It is H.M. pleasure, that you
take the same into your consideration, and how far what is laid
down in it may contribute to the improvement of the Plantations,
and report your opinion thereof. Signed, James Stanhope.
Endorsed, Recd. 24th, Read 25th Feb., 1714/15. 1 p. Enclosed, |
236. i. A Treatise Of the American Plantations. Oct. 18,
1714. Upon the advantage of the Plantation Trade;
value of exports, etc. On the administration of Justice;
the Plantation Courts and Governors; Appeals from
thence; and the Council of Trade; "There have bin
many persons at severall times past put into that
Commission for different reasons then their abillity, and
therefore it has not hitherto produced such effects as
might be expected from it. And it was impossible
that Board should make a right judgment of wrongs,
oppressions and Acts, unless some at that Board had
a perfect and personal knowledge of the nature of the
Plantations, and of the people, as likewise of their
different laws and constitutions," etc. Proposes that
it might be strengthened by appointment of two
merchants and ex-Governors, etc. Printed. N.C. Col.
Rec. II. 154. Endorsed as preceding. 16¾ pp. [C.O.
323, 7. Nos. 38, 38 i.; and (without enclosure) 324, 10.
p. 64.] |
Feb. 23. St. James's. |
237. Order of King in Council. Referring following to the
Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed, John
Povey. Endorsed, Recd. 25th Feb., Read 26th April, 1715. 1 p.
Enclosed, |
237. i. Petition of Humphrey Sheppard to the King. Prays
H.M. confirmation of Governor Douglas' grant to him
of a plantation in the French quarter of St. Kitts, made
in consideration of his great losses by the French
invasion etc. 1 p. |
237. ii. Petition of Mary Bowden, widow, to the King. Prays
H.M. to grant her a plantation in the French part of
St. Kitts, which was granted to her by General Codrington, retaken by the French, taken from her again by
Governor Parke, granted again to her by the late Queen,
but held in suspence from her by Governor Parke till
that grant had expired, and then granted by him to
Governor Lambert, his partner. 1¼ pp. |
237. iii. The case of Humphrey Sheppard. He has spent
nearly £500 in cultivation his plantation (v. April 4th),
and its always near 18 months before any profitt can be
reaped, and the grant being for so short a term, three
years, it cannot answer his first cost. Petitioner was
obliged to sell his commission as quarter-master of
H.M. Regiment in the Leeward Islands for not half its
value in order to come to England to beg for an extension
of the term of the grant, and has now been 18 months
waiting in England. Meanwhile Governor Douglas
has made a fresh grant of the plantation to Mr. Mead,
whose grandson has married Douglas' daughter, etc.
1 p. [C.O. 152, 10. Nos. 50, 50 i.–iii.; and (without
enclosures) 153, 12. pp. 189, 190.] |
Feb. 23. St. James's. |
238. Order of King in Council. Referring enclosed petition
to the Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed,
John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. Read 4th March, 1714/15. 1 p.
Enclosed, |
238. i. Petition of Benedict Leonard, Lord Baltemore. Refers
to petition Feb. 4th. Since then, petitioner's father
is dead, and the proprietaryship of Maryland is by law
vested in petitioner. Prays H.M. allowance and
approbation of John Hart, nominated by him Governor
of Maryland. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717. Nos. 62,
62 i.; and 5, 727. pp. 442, 443.] |
Feb. 23. St. James's. |
239.Copy of H.M. Instructions to Governor Lowther. [C.O.
5, 190. pp. 55–98.] |
Feb. 24. Whitehall. |
240. Council of Trade and Plantations to the King. In reply
to Feb. 5th, quote representations of 5th May, and 26th Oct.
1715. Conclude:—We are humbly of opinion that the petitioner,
Elizabeth Salenave, is deserving of compassion and have nothing
to offer why your Majesty may not extend your Royal favour
to her accordingly. [C.O. 153, 12. pp. 183–186.] |
Feb. 25. Whitehall. |
241. Mr. Pringle to Mr. Popple. Mr. Secretary Stanhope
judges the inclos'd papers may be of use to the Council of Trade
and Plantations, when they have under their consideration the
affairs of Newfoundland, etc. The orders from Mr. Broomley
to Col. Moody should have gone by the sloop Happy, but she
getting no further then Ireland, they have been return'd to this
office. Requests return of papers. Signed, Ro. Pringle. Endorsed,
Recd. 25th, Read 28th Feb., 1714/15. 1 p. Enclosed, |
241. i. Report of the Surveyor General to the Board of
Ordnance upon Placentia, 11th Feb., 1714. Signed,
A. Richards. Copy. 4 pp. |
241. ii. Account of stores sent to Placentia, 26th June, 1713.
Copy. 4½ pp. |
241. iii. Account of stores sent to Placentia but not delivered,
by the sloop Happy (v. covering letter). 9th Sept.,
1714. Copy. 2¾ pp. |
241. iv. Mr. Secretary Bromley to Lt. Governor Moody.
Whitehall, 8th Sept., 1714. Copy. 2 pp. |
241. v. Board of Ordnance to Lord Townshend, giving an
account of stores sent to Placentia. 11th Feb., 1714.
Copy. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 194, 5. Nos. 64, 64 i.–v.; and
195, 5. pp. 461–479.] |
Feb. 25. Whitehall. |
242. Mr. Secretary Stanhope to Governor Lord A. Hamilton.
I had not an opportunity before I went to Vienna of writing
to your Lopp., but I find that in my absence, my Lord Townshend
acquainted you that the King had honoured me with the station
of one of his principal Secretaries of State, etc. After my congratulating your Lop. on H.M. renewing your Commission which I
doubt not you have been apprised before now; I am to acquaint
you that I have in my hands your Lop's. letter to my lord Townshend of Dec. 10, etc., all which have been laid before the King,
who approves of the several steps taken by your Lordship in
execution of your orders sent you upon the death of her late
Majesty. As to what your Lordp. writes in relation to the difficulties you meet with from the Assembly to grant the Additionall
Pay which is necessary for subsisting the two independing
companys now established there, as that matter lies now by your
Representation before the Councill of Trade, as soon as they have
considered it, and given their opinion, I shall lay it before H.M.
and endeavor to have his directions for your Lordship. H.M.
has been pleased to appoint Mr. Broderick Attourney General of
that Island which I believe by what your brother my Lord
Orkney, who sollicited it has told me, will not be unacceptable
to your Lordp. The Board of Ordnce. haveing been directed
to dispose of H.M. stores that are in that Island, I am to signify
to your Lordship H.M. pleasure that you give all necessary
countenance and assistance to the person the Board shall employ
for that purpose that the stores may be disposed to the best
advantage. Signed, James Stanhope. [C.O. 5, 190. pp. 98–100.] |
Feb. 28. Whitehall. |
243. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. We are now preparing some Heads of Enquiry and
Instructions as usual, for the Newfoundland Commodore, etc.;
in the doing whereof we find one difficulty. The Act of Parliament, 10th and 11th K. William, to encourage the trade to Newfoundland, do's require that no alien or stranger whatsoever (not
residing within the Kingdom of England, Dominion of Wales
or Toun of Berwick upon Tweed) shall at any time hereafter
take any bait, or use any sort of trade or fishing whatsoever in
Newfoundland or any of the Islands or places thereunto belonging.
The 13th Article of the Treaty of Peace with France concluded
at Utrecht, doth give up all Newfoundland with the Islands
adjacent to this Kingdom, and the French are thereby excluded
from fishing in any parts thereof, except in that part only, which
stretches from the place call'd Cape Bonavista, to the Northern
Point of the said Island, and from thence running down by the
Western side, reaches as far as the place call'd Point Riche.
As these interfere with one another, we are apprehensive that in
case we shou'd give an instruction to the Commodore, to take
care that the French do not fish in any parts, but those to which
they are limited, it may be interpreted, that they have leave to
fish in those places; which tho' consonant to the Treaty, is
contrary to the Act of Parliament. And therefore we desire
you will please to let us have directions, as soon as conveniently
you can, for that we are inform'd, the ships bound to Newfoundland are near upon their departure. [C.O. 195, 6. pp. 17–19.] |
Feb. 28. Pilgrim, in Barbadoes. |
244. William Sharpe, President of the Council of Barbados,
to the Council of Trade and Plantations. By H.M. sloop,
Jamaica, Capt. Knighton Commander, who arriv'd here the 11th
instant, I had the honour of your Lordships' packet (Aug. 11th
and 19th etc.). Refers to enclosures relating to Sancta Lucia.
The French pretend, that some of their wood-cutters there have
been disturb'd, and their wood taken from them by H.M. ships of
war here; and insinuate their right to cut timber there; under
colour of which they build (as I have been inform'd lately) several
small hutts, which may, in time, become settlements, not easily
remov'd. Upon consulting the Patent, and Instructions for this
Government, I thought it my duty to assert H.M. sole right of
Soveraignty to that Island, as well as Tobago, in the manner I
have in my answer; and, in obedience to those Instructions, I
have encourag'd the Indians, inhabitants of those Islands, to
continue under H.M. protection, and to reject any dependence
upon any other Prince. One of them, who stiles himself, and is
acknowledg'd by them as, their Head, or King, has been up with
me, and demanded succour against the negroes of those places,
who were in arms against them. I thought it my duty, on this
occasion, to give him all assurances of protection, and to obtain
from him an ample acknowledgement, and recognition of H.M.
Soveraignity, which he has made in the most publick and
authentick manner. I sent down H.M. two ships of war the
Speedwell, Capt. Phillip Vanbrugh, and the Valeur, Capt. John St.
Lo, with them, who found the negroes and Indians had pretty
well composed their differences. The scituation of Sancta Lucia
giving it a great influence on Martinique, it cannot be adviseable,
in my humble opinion, to permit any Foreign State, so much as
a pretence to start any claim of right to it, which these small
hutts may, in process of time, afford'em. I intend therefore, in
a few days, to view, in person, such of those Islands as are under
this Government, in order to know perfectly the true state of
them; which, as soon as the new Governour, Mr. Lowther, comes,
I shall bring with me, together with the Recognition aforesaid,
and shall do myself the honour to lay'em before H.M., for H.M.
consideration, leaving an authentick duplicate among the Records
in the Secretary's Office here, etc. Signed, Wm. Sharpe.
Endorsed, Recd. 2nd, Read 4th May, 1715. 4 pp. Enclosed, |
244. i. M. Duquesne, Governor of Martinique to the Governor
of Barbados, Fort Royal, Martinique, 24th Feb.
(N.S.), 1715. Complains that English ships at Santa
Lucia have taken away from French subjects wood
cut by them there. Complains of the violence used
by Capt. St. Lo, the Valeur, on this occasion to the
subjects of the (French) King, who always during peace,
and with the (French) Governor General's pass-port,
have been at St. Lucia to cut timber, without disturbing
the subjects of the King of England, who are there also.
Requests the return of the wood, and that such a thing
be forbidden for the future, etc. P.S. I have just heard,
that several of your English ships are going to Tobago
to cut wood there; you know that that ought not to be,
and that they are not allowed to do so. Signed,
Duquesne. Copy. French. 1 p. |
244. ii. President Sharpe to the Governor of Martinique.
Pilgrim, in Barbados. Feb. 21, 1714 (=1715). Reply
to preceding. I cannot find that any of the King's ships
have done what is alledg'd, nor that they have anyway
acted contrary to their duty. The King my Master's
avow'd, sole right of Soveraignty to Sancta Lucia cannot
be unknown to you, nor is now to be controverted;
and therefore, Sir, it cannot be permitted, that any
persons, other than H.M. own subjects, should settle,
or cut wood there, with H.M. license: I must therefore
earnestly press you to give order, that such of the King's
your Master's subjects as I hear are now about to settle
there may forthwith remove, and that none of them
resettle there for the future, etc. The same right the
King my Master has to the Island of Tobago; and therefore I can't but be surpriz'd at the postscript to your
Excellency's letter, etc. I must remind you that the
respective subjects of the two Crowns are not permitted
to trade one with the other, in these parts, etc. Signed,
Wm. Sharpe. Copy. 1½ pp. [C.O. 28, 14. Nos. 38,
38 i., ii.; and (without enclosures) 29, 13. pp. 300–304.] |
Feb. 28. Whitehal. |
245. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Stanhope. We are inform'd that the Fort at Placentia, is in a
miserable condition, being all out of repair and not one house
dry to live in: The soldiers are in great want of cloaths and
pay, and have nothing but water to drink; and their other
provisions (notwithstanding they are at short allowance) will be
expended in March next. So that unless there be supplies
immediately sent to the garrison of pay and provisions at least,
it will be reduc'd to very great extremity. And as we are this
day inform'd, that Nicholas King, master of the Rose galley,
lying at Fountain Stairs near Rotherhith, proposes to sail on
Thursday next, for Newfoundland, if not stopt on this service,
and is willing to take on board provisions and such other things as
shall be thought proper to be sent to the garrison, we humbly
submit it whether it may not be necessary to send by this vessel
a proportion of provisions as may serve the garrison till more can
be shipt of for them. Autograph signatures. 2 pp. [C.O. 194,
23. No. 18; and 195, 5. pp. 450, 451.] |
Feb. 28. Westminster. |
246. Copy of Privy Seal directing payment of salaries of the
Commissioners and Under-Officers of the Plantation Office, due
from Christmas, 1713. Endorsed, Recd. Read 13th July, 1715.
Copy. 5¾ pp. [C.O. 388, 76. No. 188.] |