|
| Nov. 17. |
1138. Edward Randolph to the King. Has, since his return to
England, seen the answer of the Boston magistrates alleging the
Indian war and an epidemical sickness as the reason of their not
convening the General Court with whom it lies to make answer;
knows that these are notorious falsehoods. The Indian war was
ended and the articles of peace published before he left Boston;
moreover, the Massachusetts has not suffered so much as New
Plymouth and Connecticut; neither was there any extraordinary
sickness among them; only a little before his arrival three or four
rich old men died, more of age than any other disease, among them
Mr. Russel, the Treasurer, about 70 years old. Had solicited the
Magistrates to call a General Court at a time when all the Magistrates
were at Boston together, and particularly on June 23 gave in a
memorial to the Governor and Council to that effect; received no
answer but that they had replied to the King's letter of 13th June;
was, for doing this his duty, judged to have exceeded his errand, and
in a menacing way was advised not to be found slighting or
imposing on their authority. By their constitution a full and
General Court can be formed of the Governor or his Deputy and six
assistants, and on urgent occasion when seven cannot meet, the act
of those who do meet is considered valid; when the King's letters
were read there were seven Magistrates present in council, and the
country was so quiet that about 21st June some of the Magistrates
went to Hampshire and Maine to try causes. It was the opinion
of several eminent inhabitants of Boston that the Government would
not send over agents to appear, and having often disobeyed the
King's commands, especially of 10th April 1666, with impunity
would still persist in their disobedience. 1 p. Endorsed, "Rec. 30
Nov. 1676." [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 57.] |
| Nov. 18. |
1139. Mem.—That Colonel Herbert Jeffreys took the oaths of
allegiance and supremacy as Governor of his Majesty's plantation of
Virginia on 18th November 1676 before the Lords of the Privy
Council. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 58; also Col. Entry
Bk., No. LXXX., p. 133.] |
Nov. 19.
Whitehall. |
1140. Secretary Coventry to Herbert Jeffreys. That there may
be no scruple remaining, is commanded by the King to signify his
Majesty's pleasure that the printed book of articles of war now in
Jeffreys' hands published in 1673 and signed by his Majesty is the
form of articles he is to follow during the war in Virginia. [Col.
Entry Bk., No. XCV., p. 186.] |
| November ? |
1141. List of persons appointed for Virginia whose freight is not
yet contracted for. These are the commissioned and non-commissioned officers, including an adjutant, five captains, ten lieutenants,
and five ensigns. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 59.] |
| Nov. 21. |
1142. Commission from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to
Thomas Eastchurch. Appointing him Governor and Commanderin-Chief of Albemarle during pleasure with all the powers and
authorities, civil and military, which by virtue of our Fundamental
Constitutions a Governor and Commander-in-Chief ought to have.
8 lines. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XX., p. 114.] |
| Nov. 21. |
1143. Similar Commission. Appointing Thomas Eustchurch
Governor and Commander in-Chief of all such settlements as shall
be made upon the rivers of Pamplico and Newse in Carolina.
[Ibid.] |
| Nov. 21. |
1144. Commission from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to
Thomas Eastchurch. Appointing him Surveyor-General of Albemarle and of such settlements as shall be made on the rivers of
Pamplico and Newse, during pleasure. [Ibid.] |
| Nov. 21. |
1145. Similar commission appointing Thomas Miller Registrar of
Albemarle, during pleasure. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XX., p. 115.] |
| Nov. 21. |
1146. Appointments by Anthony, earl of Shaftesbury, to Thomas
Miller to be his deputy of the Province of Albemarle; by Henry,
earl of Clarendon, to John Radcliffe to be his deputy of the Province
of Ashley River; by Christopher, duke of Albemarle, to James
Hill to be his deputy of the Province of Albemarle; and by
William, earl of Craven, to Timothy Biggs to be his deputy of the
province of Albemarle; all during pleasure. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol.
XX., pp., 115, 118, 119.] |
|
1147. Instructions from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to the
Governor and Council of the Province of Albemarle. To observe
the rules of strict justice, friendship, and amity with the neighbour
Indians and not suffer them to have any just cause to complain of
oppression or injustice. To send account of what tribute or payments are received from any Indians, and upon what account
demanded. To take special care that justice be duly administered,
and that it be neither tedious, troublesome, nor troublesome to
attain it, "for men of prudence and estates have no reason to venture
themselves in any place where liberty and property are not well
secured." To promote and propose in the Assembly the making of
such laws as may best secure the ancient and native rights of
Englishmen, and in particular the trial of criminal causes and
matters of fact by a jury of freeholders according to the 6th Article
in the Fundamental Constitutions. To propose to the Assembly an
Act against arresting or restraining a man until first lawfully
summoned to appear; also as to how far the great Council shall be
allowed to arrest for debt or judgment given, so as to have assistance
for his defence. To prohibit trade between the Indians and any
others not freeholders. To settle plantations and towns on the
south side of Albemarle River, being a frontier settlement. Expressly
order the settlement of three towns to be the port towns of the
county of Albemarle (see letter ante, No. 1075). Earnestly recommend them to advise what privileges, concessions, and rules may
be granted either by the Lords Proprietors or by their Lordships
and the Assembly by an Act by the next despatches that orders
may be given concerning them. To do all in their power to divert
trade from New England to England "it being a certain beggary to
our people at Albemarle if they buy goods at second hand" and
sell their tobacco and commodities at a lower rate than in England.
To send exact account of the number of feet in the several inlets at
low-water mark, and where a ship may best ride to lade and
unlade, "for this has been so concealed and uncertainly reported
here as if some persons amongst you had joined with some of New
England to engross the poor trade you have and keep you still under
hatches." To give account of the number of inhabitants, how much
tobacco they make yearly, the number of cattle, and what commodities they have to trade with to induce merchants to come. On
all opportunities to give account how matters stand. [Col. Entry
Bk., Vol. XX., pp. 116–118.] |
| Nov 22. |
1148. Petition of the Company of Royal Adventurers trading to
Africa to the King. That their agent Edwin Steed having seized
the Anne of Barbadoes and her landing of negroes imported thither
contrary to his Majesty's charter, James Vaughan, Bernard Schencking, and Arthur Midleton, merchants, brought an action in
Barbadoes against Steed grounded upon the statute of monopolies
for recovery of treble damage contrary to law. Pray his Majesty
to command the governor of Barbadoes to secure petitioners and
their agents all those privileges granted to them. Endorsed, "Read
in Council, Nov. 22, 1676." [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 60.] |
Nov. 22.
Whitehall. |
1149. Order of the King in Council on preceding petition.
Referring it to the Committee of Trade and Plantations to report
what they conceive most fit to be done for the petitioner's
relief, and then his Majesty will declare his further pleasure.
Annexed, |
|
1149. i. Opinions of the Attorney and Solicitor General on two
queries in an action brought in Barbadoes upon the
Statute of Monopolies, for seizing goods imported from
Guinea contrary to the privileges granted to the Royal
African Company. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII.,
Nos. 61, 62; also Col. Entry Bks., Vol. I., pp. 53–56, and
Vol. VI., pp. 115–117.] |
Nov. 22.
Nevis. |
1150. Governor Stapleton to Lords of Trade and Plantations.
Sends answers to their Lordships' inquiries, and craves a favourable
construction if there be anything preposterous or any omission.
Nothing wanting but the map of Antigua, "which is a drawing," but
will take more time. Supplicates that his Majesty's orders on their
Lordships' report of 18th June 1675 may be punctually observed
as to arrears, &c. Has no vessel for his transportation from one
island to another but what he hires, his government being different
from Barbadoes or Jamaica. Beseeches payment of his arrears in
Sir T. Bridges' regiment as Lieutenant-Colonel and Captain
from February 1666 to October 1671, and for other expenses.
Endorsed, "Rec. with answers to inquiries, 25 Jany. 1676–77." 1 p.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 63, and Col. Entry Bk.,
Vol. XLVI., pp. 137, 138.] |
Nov. 22.
Nevis. |
1151. Governor Stapleton to Sir Robert Southwell. Has at
length completed his answer to inquiries, and desired his friends,
Captains Gorges and Freeman, to present his respects. Colonel
Warner is after his great sufferings come off with credit by a learned
ignoramus of the grand jury, and was cleared by proclamation,
which could not be otherwise unless they would hang him right or
wrong. The fellow who falsely deposed against him is sent to Holland
in irons upon a letter Stapleton wrote to the Governor of Curaçao
to have him sent thither, or punished for stealing 30 odd negroes
from the English part of St. Christopher's, which he did twice, and
other felonious acts. Begs him to press the readings of his answers
to inquires, and endeavour to get a suitable answer. Endorsed,
"Rec. with answer to inquiries, 25 January 1676–77." 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 64.] |
| Nov. 22. |
1152. Answer to inquiries sent to Colonel Stapleton, Governor
of the Leeward Islands, by command of the Lords of Trade and
Plantations by Sir Robert Southwell. 1. A Council in each island,
in number twelve, where persons enough to be chosen, but in most
of the islands, except Nevis, there cannot be twelve, not being half
populated. An Assembly composed of two freeholders from each
parish, yearly chosen. Monthly courts of judicature in each
parish, held by the Justice of the Peace, who is commissioned
Judge, with two or three members of the Council or Assembly as
assistants, in causes not exceeding 1,000 lbs. of sugar, or 6l. 5s., at
12s. 6d. per 100 lbs., otherwise referred to the General Sessions,
held twice a year by the Governor and Council, or oftener if necessary; a Court of Equity is also held by the Governor and Council.
Recites the custom in Nevis since the infancy of settlement to this
day. 2. Courts of Judicature relating to the Admiralty. 3. The
legislative power is in the votes of the Council and Assembly,
assented to by the Governor, who has a negative voice; laws so
passed in force only for two years if his Majesty gives not his
assent. The executive power in the Provost Marshal by warrant
from the Governor, who also signs all executions, letters of administration, probate of wills, and licenses of marriage after publication
made in churches. 4. Many laws in force too tedious to be mentioned, some being frivolous, but those in force conformable to the
laws of England, and those of moment sent home. 5. Two standing
companies of foot in St. Christopher's, which should be eighty in
each company, besides officers, but now are only forty-nine in one
company and fifty-four in the other, besides officers, and are in the
greatest necessity ever soldiers were in, in sight of the French
nation, whose soldiers are well paid, well armed and accoutred.
Seven companies of Militia, foot, English, French and Dutch, but
little credit to be given to the aliens for all their oath. Nevis:
only twenty-two in pay, and five gunners to guard the guns, a
troop of sixty horse, ill-armed and horsed, because generally used
to carry sugar. A regiment of 1,300, the Deputy-Governor
Randall Russell, Colonel, Francis Morrison, Lieutenant-Colonel, Daniel
Lanhather, Major, "sees" them all four times a month, when they
are exercised; this country the worst for arms he has ever been
in. Antigua: but two files of men in pay, a troop of 33 horse, a
regiment of 770 foot, Colonel Philip Warner, Colonel, LieutenantColonel Rowland Williams, Major Thomas Mallett. Montserrat:
two files of men paid by the country in two forts, a troop of forty
horse, a regiment of 877 foot, the Colonel, his brother Edward
Stapleton, who is also Deputy Governor. Small number of people
in Statia, Saba, and Anguilla, where Captain Abraham Howell
is Deputy-Governor, with sixty men ill armed. In Statia and
Saba four files of men, these islands of no advantage, but rather of
disadvantage to his Majesty, being refuges for any who design
fraud, and were better under water than above. In Barbuda some
twenty servants belonging to those who have farmed the Island
from Lord Willoughby for thirty years, they look after a considerable stock of horses, cattle, and sheep, which may in time be
an advantage for victualling his Majesty's ships, or the inhabitants
of these islands. In Tortola good supply of timber. 6. Describes
the castles and forts within his government in St. Christopher's,
Nevis, Antigua, and Montserrat. 7. Concerning the number of
privateers that frequent the coast, their burthen, number of men
and guns, &c. The number cannot exactly be given. The
French have several at Hispaniola. The Dutch have had sixteen
privateers last year in those parts, but none exceeded 25 guns;
they much molested our merchants in the late war. Can name
but few, Captain Barnes with 12 guns and 150 men, Captain
Francis, a mulatto, with 12 guns and 60 men, William Hamlyn,
who took a false oath against Captain Warner and ran away with
a sloop from Antigua to Curacao; is informed Hamlyn is sent to
Holland to be punished. The French and Dutch have considerable
men-of-war every year, wars between them at Martinique, where
De Ruyter landed soldiers. Whoever is master of the sea, and has
good soldiers, from October to June, can carry or destroy the
strongest islands. 8. The strength of his neighbours, whether
Indians or other nation: About 1,500 Indians in St. Vincent,
Dominica, and St. Lucia, six hundred of these bowmen are negroes,
some run away from Barbadoes and elsewhere. There are about 1,800
French on St. Christopher's, about the same number at Gaudaloupe,
5,000 at Martinique, and 300 in the Grenadas. Cannot tell the
number on other islands plundered by the Dutch. At St. Cruce
600 men, and at Hispaniola upwards of 4,000. The Dane has no
other Colony but St. Thomas, with 300 inhabitants, they are but
new planters, and have but two trading ships every year. The
Dutch have a considerable fort at Curacao, and are settling
Tobago where are 600 soldiers, in Surinam 600 inhabitants, but
knows not their strength in other places. Cannot give account
of the Spaniards and their Indians. Has not during the ten
years he has been out seen any trade with the Indians. Trade
between the Dutch and Spaniards for negroes several thousand
yearly. The French very considerable as to their trade and commerce. 9. The correspondence he keeps with his neighbours:
With the Indians none at all, who are detestable for their villanies
and barbarous cruelties. 10. The arms and ammunition he found
on the place, and has since received, and what remain. 11. The
money paid by his Majesty or levied within his Government towards
buying arms, or maintaining fortifications, and how spent. 12.
The boundaries, longitude and latitude, and land within his
Government, number of acres patented, settled or unsettled, and
manurable: Nevis contains by computation 320,000 acres, about
7 miles in breadth and 15 miles in length, 2,000 acres patented,
the whole Island settled, except the top of the mountain. Antigua,
28 miles in length and 12 miles in breadth, 120,000 acres whereof
100,000 acres manurable, whereof 70,000 taken up. About 3,000
acres in the several small adjacent islands. Montserrat, 25 miles
in length and 8 miles in breadth, 60,000 acres, one-half not
manurable because very mountainous, 20,000 acres patented,
4,000 acres unsettled. Statia, Saba, and Anguilla never surveyed,
fitter for raising stocks of cattle than to yield sugar or other
commodities. Barbuda computed as big as Nevis, never surveyed,
fit for cotton and indigo. 13. The principal towns and places of
trade, buildings, and their strength and size: In St. Christopher's,
Sandy Point, and Old Road, the places of trade, the buildings but
ordinary of timber, covered with thatch, very few shingled. In
Nevis, five places for trade, but two considerable; Charles Town,
where are good dwellings and storehouses, built with the country
timber, not exceeding 60 feet long and 20 broad, story and a half,
the "Hurri-Canes" having taught the people to build low. Morton
Bay, where are but few houses, because ships ride at Charles
Town and send their long boats to Morton Bay for lading. In
Antigua, six places of trade, but only two very small towns; in
St. John's and Falmouth houses built as in Nevis. In Montserrat,
three places of trade, Kingsale, Plymouth, and the Road, trade and
houses small; there were here some stone buildings, but the earthquakes having thrown them all down, they build with timber only
except the boiling-houses for sugar, which in part must be built of
stone. 14. As to parishes, precints, or divisions: In St. Christopher's,
six parishes or precints, seven divisions, termed so from the divisions
of the companies, for they are called such, a captain's division; the
precints or parishes from the churches formerly there erected and
demolished by the French. In Nevis, four parishes or precincts,
thirteen divisions, which take their appellations as before from
such and such captains. In Antigua, six precincts, which are the
places of trade, but one church, and that at Falmouth, which serves
also for the Court House, their watching and warding against the
Indians not admitting of their public buildings, divisions ten. In
Montserrat, four precincts, and but two parishes, only two churches
ever built, and those demolished by the French, rebuilt by the
Governor's directions on his arrival, but levelled with the ground
by a terrible earthquake on Christmas Day, 1672, "and had the
people been in the afternoon at church they had been knocked in
the head." In some houses persons were killed, as in his own
"it is beyond my purpose to express the miraculous escape of my
own family and others." Ten divisions from the names of the
captains. The other islands were never divided into any parishes
or rules. 15. The rivers, harbours, and roads: Six rivers in
St. Christopher's, and two roads in the English part. In Nevis,
three rivulets, and "a very good hot bath," but one road, the best
in all these islands. In Antigua, two rivulets, four good harbours,
and many a good road, bay, and creek, all named. In Montserrat,
twelve rivulets, whereof three hot at their springs. Four waterworks for making sugar, and might be more if the island were well
settled and encouraged. No harbours, but three good roads,
several good bays of depths for the best ship in the world. In
Barbuda, Statia, Saba, and Anguilla, open roads, no rivers or
harbours. 16. Commodities of their own growth or production,
and their value also of imports: Sugar, tobacco, indigo, cotton, and
ginger; about 3,600 tons of sugar exported directly for England,
and not more than 40 tons to New England, New York, and
Virginia. Very few materials growing, or can be produced for masts,
shipping, unless in Antigua, as Spanish ash, or pines for masts,
white and red cedars. Imports of the manufacture of England to
the value of 50,000l. sterling, and wines from Madeira. Servants,
horses, and provisions from Scotland, Ireland, and New England,
about 20,000l. per annum, besides blacks from the Royal Company,
of which the inhabitants of the four islands are able to take up and
pay for them well one thousand annually, valued at 20,000l.
sterling. 17. Knows not of any store of saltpetre, but what
Colonel Philip Warner has in cave in Antigua; questionless there
are saltpetre, sulphur, and other minerals in most of the Islands.
18. The number of merchants and planters, English and foreign,
servants and slaves, and able to bear arms: All English, if under
that denomination, all the King's subjects, 3,914, by lists refers to
his answer to 5th inquiry, yet never expects two-thirds in the
field, much less on service, "for in the exactest disciplined army,
unless it be to receive pay or bread, the third part of the number
listed does not appear, what by sickness, cowardice, or false
musters, much less may be expected from Militia on service." 19.
The number coming yearly to plant the last seven years, and
blacks or slaves brought in: No register has been kept, there are
no foreigners except in St. Christopher's, the number of blacks
cannot be given for the same reason; the rates different
according to their condition; from 3,500 to 4,000 lbs. of sugar
given to the Royal Company's factors, no certain rate but as
agreed, from 20l. to 22l. sterling. 20. Number of whites, blacks,
or mulattos, born and christened the last seven years: The scarcity
of ministers, sometimes having none at all, and no registers
kept of births, christenings or burials is what can be said to
this inquiry. No records of this Island (Nevis) have been kept
"until they have felt the smart of it and built a good substantial
Sessions House, and strong chests to secure all things in hurricane
time." 21. The number of marriages the last seven years: Shall
advise with the Council of a method in future to enable a satisfactory answer to be given. 22. The number of deaths: No register
kept of burials. 23. As to the value of the estates of Planters and
the wealth of the islands in general: Reasons why no true estimate
can be given; they generally conceal the number of their negroes
because levies are made for public charges per poll, yet, as near as
may be, in St. Christopher's 67,000l., Nevis 384,660l., Antigua
6,700l. (sic) [67,000l.], Montserrat 62,500l., Statia, Saba, and
Anguilla 1,000l., Barbuda 2,500l.; by a conjectural estimation the
wealth of all is 584,660l. sterling. 24. The number of vessels
trading yearly and their burthen: About 100, from 15 to 200 tons,
besides ketches and sloops lading from one island to another.
25. Obstructions to improvement of their trade and navigation:
The want of a constant supply of servants from England, Scotland,
and Ireland; the want of men-of-war; how the French are
supplied; has not so much as a sloop to go from one island to
another, but has to hire to his great charge. Copy of the King of
France's Order to the Marquis de Granée on this subject. 26. The
advantages or improvements to be gained in their trade and navigation: A constant supply of servants and of men-of-war; the building
a strong fort in each island. The French and Dutch have extraordinary care of their plantations. The Dutch now going to settle
Tobago. 27. Duties payable on goods exported and imported: No
duties except the 4½ per cent. upon all goods; impost of 200 lbs.
of sugar per pipe upon Madeira wines, Spanish and Portugal, and of
50 lbs. per hogshead on French wines. 28. The revenue arising to his
Majesty: No revenue but the 4½ per cent. already mentioned.
29. The religion most prevalent: The Protestant most prevalent or
professed in all the islands, the generality of the inhabitants being
all Protestants, the Common Prayer and Divine Service being
read every Sabbath. In Nevis, are some few Quakers, and in
Antigua are sixty; in both islands as many various religions as at
home, but most frequent the churches when they like the parson
or a fit of devotion comes upon them; cannot tell the variety of
their religions. In Montserrat most part are Roman Catholics, it
being first settled by those of that persuasion, yet they give no
scandal to the Protestant Church, which is the prevalent persuasion.
Every license of marriage, probate of will, and all other ecclesiastical
acts according to the Church of England; in fine, the Protestant
religion is as eight to one, the Romish, in Montserrat, six to one
Protestant and no Quaker, for they won't let any live among them.
The Quakers' singularity and obstinacy have given the Governor
more trouble than any others, not content with the peaceable
enjoyment of what they profess in their families, they meet and
once disturbed a Minister, for which they were imprisoned and
fined, and have since been quiet. They will neither watch nor
ward against the Caribbee Indians, whose treacherous and barbarous
murders, rapes, and enormities discourage the planters in the
Leeward Isles more than anything else. 30. As to instruction in
the Christian religion, churches, and Ministers, and their maintenance, the poor, and whether any beggars or idle vagabonds:
The Ministers preach the word of God, parents send their children
to some few schools, and Ministers catechise great and small. In
all ten churches, in St. Christopher's two, Nevis four, Montserrat
two, Antigua two, in the other islands none; five Ministers in all,
one not in orders, six more good ones would be sufficient; their
maintenance is 10 lbs. of sugar per poll, white and black, besides
what is given at marriages and funeral sermons. In proportion to
the number of parishes fifteen Ministers are wanting, besides one
each for Statia, Saba, and Anguilla, but indeed ten or eleven are
more than can be handsomely maintained by all the islands, so
that six, with what we have, is enough. Collections are made for
the poor, and by an Act parishioners are also rated, to which all
voluntarily submit but the Quakers, whose goods are sold for payment of said rates. No beggars or idle vagabonds, for all who can
are obliged to plant and work. 33 pp. Endorsed, " Rec. 25 Jany.
1676–'7'." [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 65; also Col. Entry
Bk., Vol. XLVI., pp. 138–190.] |
1636,
May 25,
to
1676,
Nov. 22 |
1153. "Some of the bye-laws made by the Governor and Company for the plantation of the Summer Islands, offered to the
consideration of Parliament." That towards the maintenance of
Ministers and other public charges, the duty of a penny be imposed
on every pound of tobacco imported from the Somers Islands.
Order at a General Court, 18th August 1658: that the Governor
and Council be authorized to seize and sell goods or lands of any
person refusing or neglecting to pay the Company's duties. "The
long Law of Seizure of Ships," at a General Quarter Court held
22nd November 1676, at Sadler's Hall. A law to revive and make
perpetual a law made at a Quarter Court, 12th July 1671, entitled,
a Law making forfeit all such goods and commodities as are
usually imported into the Somers Islands in the Company's
magazine ships, in case the same be imported thither in any other
ships; also for the seizure of tobacco and cedar sent aboard ships
to be transported without license; and also making forfeit all such
ships or vessels as shall import or export any such goods, commodities, tobacco, or cedar, without license; and also appointing
the Factor to produce his invoice, make oath thereof, and sell
according to the same. Order at a Quarter Court, 25th November
1663, that no vessel exceeding five tons be built in the Somers
Islands without express orders from the Company, on penalty of
forfeiture, one-fourth to the informer and three-fourths to the
Sheriff for public uses. Order at a Quarter Court, held at
Armourer's Hall, in Coleman Street, London, 10th February
1669–[70]. That no ship be entertained as a magazine ship in
any voyage to the Somers Islands, wherein any member of this
Company shall have any share or interest. "The 117th Law of
the Company printed." All grants from the Company of men's
private lands in the Somers Islands shall pass under the Common
Seal of the Company, which shall be sufficient evidence for said
lands, &c. Order at a Quarter Court, 25th May 1636, that to
prevent planters in the islands buying divers shares of land for
their own use, which in time may be of ill-consequence to the
Company, the Court do give authority for buying all such lands,
and do confirm their former order; that no one shall be admitted
of the Company by virtue of any land he shall buy, unless same
were first offered to the Company, nor any such deed be ratified,
under the Company's seal. Printed, 3½ pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVIII., No. 66.] |
Nov. 23.
Port Royal. |
1154. Journal of the Council of Jamaica. Patent to William
Parker for a ferry over the salt and fresh rivers between the
parishes of St. Andrew and St. Katherine. The Clerk of the Enrollment to record the powers of John Ball from the Royal African
Company as one of their factors. Unanimous approval of his
Excellency's choice of Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Long to fill the
vacancy of the Chief Justice. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXV.,
pp. 531–535.] |
Nov. 23.
African House. |
1155. Andrew King, sub-Governor, Gabriel Roberts, DeputyGovernor, and seven [? Committees] of the Royal African Company
to Secretary Sir Joseph Williamson. In answer to letter from Port
Royal of 24th June, send account of the ships of the Company
which should have delivered their negroes at Jamaica in 1676, none
of which by their last letters thence had arrived, but believe they
are all there by this time, viz.: four ships with 1,660 blacks. The
planters there owe the Company up to June 1676, 25,000l.
Have since designed five ships with 1,540 blacks to be there in 1677,
and shall continue to give them a large supply. Conceive it highly
reasonable they be minded to be punctual in their payments,
otherwise, the Company will not be able to continue as they
earnestly desire. Hopes he will be satisfied, the people of Jamaica
have no just cause to complain of want of negroes much less of the
price. Their own commodities they value at 100l. will not fetch
70l. in England. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 67.] |
| Nov. ? |
1156. Petition of the Royal African Company to the King
They have received a memorial from Signor Grillo, requesting, in
regard petitioners cannot at present possibly deliver the contracted
number of negroes, to be allowed to buy so many of the planters
and Portuguese as may complete the contract, and take them on
Portuguese or Spanish ships to Jamaica and Barbadoes paying the
same duty as petitioners are liable to pay. Pray his Majesty to
give order to the Governors of Jamaica and Barbadoes that Signor
Grillo's Agents may enjoy said immunities. Endorsed by Williamson
"Royal Company." [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII, No. 68.] |
Nov. 24.
Council Chamber, Whitehall. |
1157. Mem.—The Lord Privy Seal is desired by the Lords
of Trade and Plantations to report to his Majesty that, having
considered the case of the Royal African Company referred to them
by an Order in Council of the 22nd instant (see ante, No. 1149), and
thereupon received the opinions of the Attorney and Solicitor
General (see ante, No. 1149 I.), their Lordships propose that a clause
be inserted in the letter prepared for the King's signature to Sir
Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, commanding him to secure
the Royal African Company and their agents in the quiet
enjoyment of their privileges, and to take care that no vexations or
actions be brought and encouraged there contrary to law and in
contempt of his Majesty's charter. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. I.,
p. 57, and Vol. VI., p. 118.] |
Nov. 24.
Whitehall. |
1158. Order of the King in Council on preceding report of the
Lords of Trade and Plantations. That a clause be inserted in said
letter to Sir Jonathan Atkins, Governor of Barbadoes, to the effect
above-mentioned, with a reprimand to him for suffering said action
to be commenced against the petitioners' (Royal African Company)
agents for acting according to his Majesty's charter. 1 p. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 69; also Col. Entry Bks., Vol. I.,
pp. 57, 58, Vol. VI., pp. 119, 120, and Vol. CIV., p. 256.] On
30th November 1676 the draft of a letter from the Committee
to Sir Jonathan Atkins was read and some additions agreed on,
[Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIV., p. 258.] |
Nov. 24.
Whitehall. |
1159. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Petition of John
Downing read (see ante, No. 1120), and on reading the Minutes of
8th August last the consideration of this business is referred to a
fit time. Mem.—Downing delivered the Commission and Instructions (enclosed in his petition) which are to be copied. [Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. CIV., p. 254.] |
| [Nov. 24.] |
1160. "A brief narrative concerning Newfoundland" signed by
John Downing. Patents granted to Lord Baltimore and others.
His father sent over with the King's Commission in 1640. Found
fifty-six guns mounted in the several forts. All nations in amity
with his Majesty might freely buy and catch fish, build houses, and
have fishing room on shore in any part of the Island as freely as
any English subject, provided he paid his impost. By the patent,
inhabitants were not within six miles to destroy the woods or to
convert the rooms fit for drying fish to other uses. A generation
of men have been practising the ruin of the inhabitants ever since
any people settled there, that they might be the better established
in the seat of oppression. Describes their position in 1674 and in
1675 under Sir John Berry and Captain Russell in 1676, and how
the woods have been fired sometimes carelessly by "the fire they
light tobacco." Filling the harbours with ballast and stones is done
by ships. As to the furnishing the inhabitants with wine and
brandy. Commonly eight vessels come every year from New
England with provisions and clothing. Relief given by the inhabitants to shipwrecked men, and those with scurvy and other
sickness who mostly "get their cures and become able to do service."
Danger of forcing men to quit their houses and employments.
Account of the French and their strength in Newfoundland.
Placentia fortified with ordnance and a garrison of soldiers, also
St. Peter's. Encouragement offered by the French King to his
subjects to inhabit Newfoundland. Relation of John Aylred,
merchant of Waterford, concerning Placentia; 250 French families
there "which, according to our families, may be above 2,000 men,"
400 soldiers in garrison in the King's pay, not less than 200 sail of
ships. It is said Newfoundland is sufficiently guarded by fogs and
ice after the fishing ships go till the arrival of the English fishermen. English ships commonly all gone in September, and by
patent are not to sail out of England till March. Ships from England, Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal, and New England come in
November and December. Some arrive beginning of March. The
best fishing in May. Ice comes on the coast in February and March,
sometimes in April, some years none to be seen; the ice is not made
here, but breaks up the summer before in some cold straits and
winds, and currents bring it on this coast. Endorsed, "Rec. 24th
November 1676, from Mr. Downing." 3½ pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXXVIII., No. 70.] |
| [No. 24.] |
1161. Petition of John Byndlosse to the Lords of Trade and
Plantations. Praying when their Lordships take into consideration
the papers concerning Sir Henry Morgan, to whom he is agent,
and Colonel Byndlosse his brother, he may have leave to give his
attendance and offer anything that may tend to their service or
their Lordships' satisfaction therein. Endorsed, "Read 24 Nov.
1676." [Col. Papers, Vol. XXXVIII., No. 71.] |
Nov. 24.
Whitehall. |
1162. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The preceding petition read, whereupon the Lords resolve to enter upon
this business Tuesday next (28th) and order notice to be given to
Mr. Byndlosse. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIV., p. 255.] |
Nov. 28.
Whitehall. |
1163. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. His Majesty's
order of 10th instant read referring to their Lordships' considerations several papers transmitted by Lord Vaughan from Jamaica
concerning Sir Henry Morgan, Deputy Governor, and Colonel
Byndlosse accused to have correspondence with the privateers.
Also an exemplification of the proceedings on the citation of Sir
Henry Morgan and Colonel Byndlosse. Whereupon their Lordships order a breviat to be made of the particular charges and
proofs which appear to be brought against them; and then their
Lordships will proceed to make a judgment upon the whole matter.
Mr. Secretary Coventry takes notice that Lord Vaughan did demand
and take from Sir Henry Morgan the letters he had written to him
as Secretary of State. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIV., p. 258.] |
| Nov. 28, 29. |
1164. Journal of the Assembly of Barbadoes. Ordered that the
Treasurer pay the sum of 200,000 lbs. of muscovado sugar to
Governor Sir Jonathan Atkins, Which is presented by the country
for his better support in the government of this Island. |
| Nov. 29. |
Ordered that Edward Preston, gunner, and his mate and matrosses
be paid their salaries, as also Hugh Jones and Richard Wornell,
gunners of the forts at Speights. That a mastick tree be bought
of Nicholas Prideaux at 3s. a foot. Passed an Act to burthen those
who have rent-charges and profits issuing out of the land and
negroes in this Island to bear a proportion of taxes. Also an Act
returned by the Governor and Council with amendments to explain a clause in the Act for establishing the Court of Common
Pleas within this Island. Ordered that the expenses of the Committee for examining the laws at their public meetings be paid;
and that the duty on wines belonging to Paul Gwynn on the
Katherine be remitted. Adjourned to 23 January 1677–8. [Col.
Entry Bk., Vol. XIII., pp. 237–240.] |
Nov. 30.
Whitehall. |
1165. Journal of the Lords of Trade and Plantations. In
answer to a letter from the Governor of Boston to Secretary
Coventry, dated 13th June 1676 [see ante, No. 945], the Lords
order letter to be prepared commanding them to hasten the calling
a General Assembly and sending their agents. [Col. Entry Bk,
Vol. CIV., p. 260.] |
Nov. 30.
St. James'. |
1166. Sir John Werden to Major Andros. Acknowledges his
of 22nd July. Encloses an order from his Majesty forbidding his
admitting any of the accomplices of Bacon, the chief of the
seditions in Virginia into his government. The forces designed to
reduce those people unto their due obedience are now all embarked
and in the Downs. The Duke hath lately had the mischance of a
fall of a horse, whereby he broke his collar-bone, but he is now
well again and able to use that arm, though the early frosts have a
little retarded the bones knitting again. Leaves him to peruse
Mr. Dyre's letter. Mem.—This letter with one enclosed from the
King went the 4th of December, by one John Test in the ship
Charles, bound for Maryland. 1 p. Printed in New York
Documents III., 245. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXX., p. 23.] |
| Nov. 30. |
1167. Extract of letter from Sir John Werden to Mr. Dyre.
Sir George Downing, one of the Customers, says that he may receive
and give all encouragement to any inhabitants that will come with
their goods and families from any of the other plantations to New
York, and that the Customers make no scruple of letting such
introduce all their own goods, for their own use and not to sell,
customs free. The Deputy-Governor of the Royal Company tells
him that they only pretend to the first importation of slaves out
of Guinea, and when these are once sold in Barbadoes, Jamaica, &c.,
they care not whither they are transported, so that they would not
oppose the introducing of black slaves into New York from any
place except from Guinea, if they were first sold in that place by
the Company or their agent. ½ p. Printed in New York Documents III., 245, 246. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXX., p. 24.] |
