Minute Book: October 1671

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

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Citation:

'Minute Book: October 1671', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672, ed. William A Shaw( London, 1908), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp939-954 [accessed 8 November 2024].

'Minute Book: October 1671', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Edited by William A Shaw( London, 1908), British History Online, accessed November 8, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp939-954.

"Minute Book: October 1671". Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Ed. William A Shaw(London, 1908), , British History Online. Web. 8 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp939-954.

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October 1671

In Oct., 1671, Sir Robert Howard succeeded Sir George Downing as Secretary to the Treasury, the latter having on the 26th Sept. previously been appointed a Commissioner of the Customs. This change in personale was a very significant one. From the point of view of foreign politics it was doubtless made with a view to the intention of employing Downing as Ambassador to the Hague. As an acrid, uncompromising and unscrupulous person he was a fit tool to be used for breaking off the Triple alliance.

From the point of view of Treasury business the change is still more important. The financial embarrassment was increasing so fast that a change of measures or of men was becoming inevitable. As Sir Robert Howard had played a leading part in the Commons in the attack on the Government, the policy of Charles in buying him off by a lucrative and important official post is self-evident.

This change in Treasury officials synchronises with a deplorable break in the Treasury records. The Treasury Order Book, the Customs Book, the Letter Book, and the series styled at present "Treasury Warrants Early," which contain Downing's entry books for every other species of Treasury business (except Minutes) cease in Sept., 1671, and when in Oct. Sir Robert Howard assumed the secretarial duties he contented himself for a time with only four series of Treasury Books, viz.: (1) a Minute Book; (2) a General Letter Book; (3) a King's Warrant Book; (4) a General Miscellaneous Entry Book of all other business. If he used other series of books at the outset they have disappeared. As to the general question of this deplorable break and gap in the Treasury records, see the Introduction.

Oct. 2.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household.
A warrant for Lord Ambassador Montague for three months' ordinary: on the Customs.
Warrant for Sir Edward Turner's 4,000l. upon the privy seal without accompt. (Deleted and in place thereof is written: my Lords will consider of the best fund for Sir Edward Turner's privy seal and the best [also from the point of view of consideration] for His Majesty's affairs).
Sir Peter Wich's entertainment to be removed and [to be charged or put] on the Customs.
A warrant for Goldsborough on his privy seal for 319l. 15s. 4d. To be placed [charged on the imposition] on the Law [proceedings].
Upon the submissions of Capt. Limbrey and Francis Coleman for wrong done to the Farmers of the [4½ per cent. duty in the] Barbados by not entering of bonds and not clearing about some sugar, and their promise of amending their faults and persuading others to deal fairly my Lords are pleased to remit their offences.
Sir R. Long, Sir Robert Howard and Mr. Sherwin are to consider how the orders in the names of Sir T. Osborne and Sir T. Littelton [as joint Treasurers of the Navy] are to be transferred to Sir T. Osborn's name solely [as sole Treasurer thereof], His Majesty having lately been pleased to put the Treasurership of the Navy into said Osborne's hands, and there being at this time several orders for money unpaid and undisposed of in the names of said Osborn and Littleton jointly.
On Wednesday morning before [the meeting of the Privy] Council Sir T. Osborne, Sir T. Littleton, and Mr. Littleton, his brother, and also Viscount Brouncker and any two other Commissioners of the Navy are to attend my Lords about Sir T. Littleton's usury [or interest] orders. (Out Letters General III. p. 1.)
Sir T. Osborne to have the same authority for the 10 per cent. [allowance for interest for moneys he may have to borrow for the charge of the Navy] as was formerly given to other Treasurers of the Navy or any others.
Write Mr. Sherwyn that my Lords have ordered Edmund Clarke to be a land waiter in London port loco Mr. Cannon; and James Vernon to be a collector at Liverpool loco Col. Birch. (Out Letters General III. p. 1.)
[Ordered] that an account of the first voyage of the "Berkely Castle" and the "Ann" come from India be returned from the Custom House, and what the allowance of the tenth part of the Customs amount to for the goods imported on said ships according to the Act of Parliament for encouraging the building of three decked ships. Write the Customs Commissioners for said account. (Out Letters General III. p. 2.)
Sir R. Long to attend on Wednesday morning next before the [meeting of the Privy] Council about the Duchy of Lancaster.
A warrant on the 1672, Michaelmas quarter, of the Customs for 850l. for Mr. Packer for the Office of the Works to be for St. James's Park wall and other services there: together with allowance of 10 per cent. [for interest for the borrowing of same]. Also orders for 1,600l. on the ordinary [of the Works] and 7,000l. on the extraordinary [of the Works] to be transferred to the same [quarter]. Likewise an [order for] 1,000l. for Richmond Park palings: on the same. (Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 126.)
The settling the business with Mr. Mathewes for Richmond Park is referred to the Solicitor General.
The demands of the Wharfingers at the Custom House for landing of stones is referred to Sir C. Harbord, the Solicitor General, the Surveyor of Works and Mr. Packer.
Write the Archbishop of York about the two years' arrears of Tenths standing out within his diocese, and that he speed the payment thereof before any course be taken for [prosecuting him for] the same. Letter dated Oct. 4. (Out Letters General III. p. 6.)
[Ordered] that some good man be thought of to be collector of the Chimney money in Surrey and Southwark: to be put in speedily.
A message to be sent to seize Thomas Jackson [Juxon], jun., for opposing the collection of the Hearthmoney. (Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 126.)
Enquire how Mr. Merriott came to be suspended from his employment of Receiver of Windsor. Give my Lords an account hereof.
Summons for Edward Barnewell in Grub Street to attend on Wednesday morning.
Warrant for 500l. for Prince Rupert's quarterage: to be on the Customs of Sept., 1671.
Viscount Fanshawe or his deputy to take order for four distringas [against the following Hearthmoney Receivers], viz.: (1) for John Cooper, Esq., for the half year's duty of Hearthmoney in the counties of Derby and Nottingham; (2) George Lasselles, for co. Leicester; (3) Bevis Lloyd, for co. Somerset; (4) William Warner, for part of the duty in co. Worcester. Mr. Lawrence is to take care of the prosecution.
Adam Moone: accompt for part of the duty in Buckingham: is gone to the East Indies: left his account. To speak with the auditor about it.
Timothy Waight, deceased, and George Collingham, said to be gone beyond sea: were accomptants for Shropshire. Two of their securities are concealed and the other is seized on an extent. To proceed upon the security to execution. Mr. Lawrence to take care.
The Auditors of the revenue are to be quickened to make their accounts about Hearthmoney for a year and a half ended 1670, Michaelmas.
Speak with Mr. Sherwin that a widow of one of the King's footmen may have the cleaning of the Custom House ("I have writ to Mr. Sherwin about it . . . Her name I have not . . . My Lord Ashley knows the woman.") (Out Letters General III. p. 3.)
An order to be given to Mr. Bruere, deputy to Col. Birch, to whom the auditing this half year's accompts of Hearthmoney for Kent, Sussex and Surrey is referred, to allow the accomptants' salaries for so much as they have received, whereby the states [of their accompts] may be perfected.
The securities of Mr. Samuell Lamb, of Mitcham, Surrey [as Receiver] of the Hearthmoney for Kent and Canterbury, attend. Warrant to be drawn.
[Ordered that] 9,524l. 7s. 6d. interest money till Michaelmas, 1671, be made principal money upon the accounts of the Ld. St. John and the rest of the late Farmers of the Customs, and such other moneys as shall be allowed for charges. Also the 5,000l. of the Duchess of Cleveland. Give order to Auditor Beale [to allow said items accordingly in the accompts of said late Farmers] and to dispatch their accompt by Wednesday morning next. (Out Letters General III. p. 1.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 1–4.]
Oct. 2. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Mr. Goldesbrough: warrant for his money on the Law bill, for his engrossing of public bills and making out of copies directed by my Lords.
Mr. Lambe: upon a certificate for Mr. Lamb's security for the Hearth money of Kent warrant directed to take the security accordingly.
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 126.]
Query Ll[oyd]: Clerk and Vernon.
5 business signed.
[Ibid. p. 178.]
Oct. 4.
Wednesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household.
Henry Brabant's letter referred to the Customs Commissioners.
Write the Customs Commissioners to put out Mr. Lyn (Lynne) from his post of a land waiter in London port, and in his place to put in Philip Turner, son to Baron Turner. (Out Letters General III. p. 3.)
Write Mr. Sherwin, secretary to the Customs Commissioners, that all the commissions of all officers in London port, except tidesmen, are to be passed and granted by my Lords. (Out Letters General III. p. 3.)
The business of the London Chimney money upon [the question of the Farmers thereof being] released of their arrears is referred to Sir R. Long, Sir Robert Howard and Mr. Sherwin.
Send an order to Sir R. Long that as Mr. Ball is in the place [in the Excise] for which he received recompense, the recompense is to cease while he is so possessed of said place. (Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 126.)
Warrant ordered to be drawn upon Anna de Witz's petition. (Ibid.)
Mr. Francis Weaver to be collector of the Chimney money in Surrey and Southwark. His security to be examined by Col. Web and Mr. Filingham. (Out Letters General III. p. 4.)
The Commissioners of the Navy are called in together with Sir Thomas Osborne, Sir Thomas Littleton and his [the latter's] brother. [Ordered] that in a week's time, after the office of Treasurer [of the Navy] is given up, Sir Thomas Littleton undertakes to give my Lords account of the cash in his hands.
The petition of Mr. Packer about [orders on the] fee farms to pay the Works is to be sent to Lord Hawley and the rest of the Trustees for Fee Farms to answer the allegations therein contained. (Out Letters General III. p. 4.)
Send to the Customs Commissioners a copy of the charge exhibited to my Lords by William Carter, against James Houseman, Surveyor of Dover port, and desire them to hear all parties and report.
Change the [money] orders for the Council of the Foreign Plantations [and put them] on the Customs of 1672, Michaelmas quarter. Orders also [to be made out] for the said Council for Midsummer and Michaelmas quarters last. (Minute Book DCXXIV. p. 126.)
Write the Lord Keeper to hasten the commission for Sir Tho. Osborne as Treasurer of the Navy with what speed possibly may be. (Out Letters General III. p. 5.)
Sir R. Long and Sir Robt. Howard to consider whether the Commission of arrears due to the King from Backwell and others be in the ususal form presented by the Earl of Craven.
"I received orders from my Lord Cornbury to be changed when the [Treasury] Lords please to direct."
A warrant upon the Earl of St. Albans' order on the Wardrobe dated 18th Sept. last.
Lord St. John and the rest [of the late Customs Farmers] called in. A warrant for Ald. Backwell for money that was [erased]. Sir George Downing to attend Lord Ashley concerning the privy seal for the Lord St. John and the rest [of the said late Farmers]. Sir William Bucknall desires something for inferior men not brought in. To be presented to my Lords. The privy seal to be vacated when the other passes, and that to contain only what there is tallies for. The other incidental sums [it is ordered that there are] to be warrants for.
Capt. Orton, Receiver of Hearthmoney, cos. Leicester and Rutland, is to be continued on terms to be sent by Mr. Sherwin.
The Customs Commissioners to attend my Lords in the evening with the instructions perfected by the said Commissioners.
""Adjourned till His Majestie returne from Newmarket" [erased].
Some things wherein the Commissioners of His Majesty's Customs do pray the directions of the Treasury Lords.
(1) What directions their Lordships will please to give for the granting of bills of store and portage in the outports. (In margin: The Collector and Surveyor now appointed with the King's patent officer that they grant portage as usual for the bills of store in ordinary not above 3s. or 4s. nor to exceed 20s. at their discretion.")
(2) What officers their Lordships think fit shall give security and what course they will direct for the approbation of the securities. (In the margin: the Commissioners to present their securities with their opinions [as to the trustworthiness].
(3) The sums underwritten the Customs Commissioners judge reasonable for the officers following to give security in if the Treasury Lords think fit.
In the port of London.
£
The Receiver inwards (in margin: approved) 1,200
" Receiver outwards 800
" Examiners, Jerquers and the rest of the clerks above stairs, each 200
" Paymaster of Incident charges 300
" General Surveyors each (in margin: approved) 300
" Tide Surveyors each 300
" Clerk of the tidesmen 200
" Warehouse keeper 1,000
" Surveyor of the Warehouse 300
" Surveyor of the Act of Navigation 200
" Assistant to the Surveyor of the Warehouse 200
" Surveyor of the land carriage men 200
" Surveyor of the outs and defective wines (in margin: approved) 200
" Surveyor of the Searchers 300
" Searchers each 200
" Landwaiters each 200
" Tidesmen each 100
" Watchmen each 50
In the Outports.
The Collector at least one fourth part of the yearly receipt of the port where he is Collector. (In margin: agreed.) All the rest of the officers in thrice the yearly values of their respective salaries where that amounts to 50l. or more, and where it amounts not to 50l. there in the sum of 50l. (In margin: agreed.)
(4) Concerning a pair of oars to attend the coasters omitted out of the establishment for the port of London: for which the allowance for 50l. per an. may be reasonable. (In margin: agreed.)
(5) Concerning directions for the Collectors in the outports. (in margin: to attend the Lords in these directions.)
(6) Concerning instructions for Collectors, surveyors, waiters and tidesmen.
(7) Concerning the addition of four land carriagemen, one whereof to be a surveyor of the land carriagemen, with the addition of 10l. per an. salary for keeping a horse: and that Robert Bathurst, nominated surveyor at Blackwall, be one of the four, and in case that be so settled that then John Shaw be surveyor at Blackwall. (In margin: approved.)
(8) Concerning a waiter and searcher which will be necessary to be at Barking with the salary of 40l. per an., and to be allowed a boat at 50l. per an.; and another waiter and searcher which will be necessary to be at Greenwich with a boat and the like salary and allowance. (In margin: allowed.)
(9) Whether or no in regard of the activity of Henry Deane and Edwd. Lane in making seizures by deputation from the late [Customs] Farmers there may not be reason to grant them, or such others as the Commissioners of the Customs shall think fit, like deputations to seize—there being no such officer in the establishment. And what salaries to allow such persons.
(10) What directions their Lordships will please to give upon the paper formerly presented for stating the interest between His Majesty and the late Farmers at the determination of their farm. (In margin: the [Customs] Commissioners and the King's officers [of the Customs] to consult how it was upon the coming in of the last Farmers and to report it to my Lords that it be so settled.)
(11) In regard their Lordships have appointed an extraordinary officer at Bristol by the name of a Surveyor, which gives him no power above stairs, what directions their Lordships will give for his deputation and instructions that their end in that appointment may be attained. (In margin: To have power of inspection as well above as below stairs of all business as far forth as the Collector, but not to receive money.)
(12) That their Lordships will please to direct how the Commissioners may come to the knowledge what goods are in petty farm, and how they shall act concerning them.
(13) That their Lordships will please to move the Duke of York that no yaughts nor pleasure boats be permitted to import or export any goods, and that the Custom House may not be opposed in searching them. (In margin: Approved.)
(14) What course shall be taken for preventing the importation and exportation of goods by foreign men of war, who allege that by the articles of peace they are not to be searched, and therefore refuse to permit the officers to come on board them. (In margin: The Treasury Lords to speak with the Duke of York about it.)
To inform their Lordships.
(15) That Mr. Cresset moved that his son, appointed Collector at Barnstaple, might be removed thence to Bristol, where he formerly was a landwaiter: but he being settled in the establishment, the Customs Commissioners left him to the direction of the Treasury Lords, and thought not fit to do anything in it. (In margin: Sir Tho. Clifford to take care of Barnstaple for a collector. Mr. Cresset to be taken care of.)
(16) That there are some few necessary alterations made in the [Customs] establishment, which being not yet fully settled the Commissioners do not at present trouble their Lordships with them, their Lordships having been already attended with the draft of the deputations and bonds and [having] approved of them. (In margin: to be presented to the Treasury Lords.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 4–10.]
Oct. 22.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household.
Sir Rob. Long's petition referred to Sir C. Harbord to report his opinion and advice upon it.
Agmondesham: enquire how it came to a warrant and passed into a docquet before [being] referred to the Treasury according to the Standing Order of the Council.
James Ennis, landwaiter of Newcastle, to be left out [of the new Customs Establishment].
William Pooley and Thomas Sherly (Sherley), coastwaiters of
London, to be left out, [they] appearing not.
— Horton, landwaiter of Hull: the same.
Benedict Cary to be a landwaiter in Exeter port.
In the nominating and appointing officers of the Customs, the same method to be observed as in the cases of the Sub-Commissioners of Excise.
Send to speak with Mr. Breeden on Thursday evening alone.
Mr. Griffin had an order on the new Farmers of the Customs, to be transferred to the Customs [now in commission] (erased and altered as follows: Mr. Griffin to have an order on the Customs for 1,000l.)
To give Lord Ashley an account of what is charged on the 46,000l. due from the old Farmers of the Customs.
A list to be made by Sir R. Long and Sir Robt. Howard of such necessary payments as are fixed on the Customs, and to be presented to my Lords.
Sir Robt. Howard to speak with the Earl of Craven about the state [ment] concerning Sir Stephen Fox receiving interest and not paying accordingly. To be brought in writing.
The Duke of York came in. The Officers of the Navy called in. Speak with Sir R. Long concerning 4,657l. upon the Queen Mother's revenue for the Navy, Sir T. Osborne alleging that it was [charged upon a fund of] little worth.
My Lords do assure Mr. Alderman Backwell that upon all distresses and exegents that may happen to him in point of money they will ever be kind and ready in his aid and assistance.
Send to Sir Thomas Littleton about the account of his [Navy] moneys in his hands according to his engagement to my Lords in a former minute. (In margin: Sir Tho. Littleton has urgent business: will the next time is [be] ready.)
Send for Auditor Beale to attend on Thursday morning by nine of the clock and hint that 'tis about the Earl of Anglesey's business. The said Earl to be desired to attend my Lords then.
My Lords will grant an order for Francis Langford to be a landwaiter in London port according as they do for Sub-Commissioners for the Excise.
This day week in the afternoon Mr. Alderman Backwell and his partners in the Customs Farm [are to attend my Lords] with Sir R. Long and Sir C. Harbord about settling their defalcations and about settling the [valuations, &c., of] the Customs at [the time of] their going out. Write the said Farmers and Long and Harbord to attend then.
My Lords approve the security of Weaver as certified by Col. Web and Mr. Filingham.
The petition of Penryn about a Custom House is referred to the Customs Commissioners for their opinion as to what inconvenience there may be [to his Majesty's Customs] were a Custom House erected there.
Mr. Lanyen's petition about lands taken in for the fortification of Plymouth is referred to Sir C. Harbord.
[Ordered] that no person come before Sir John Bankes upon the fifth quarter of the subsidies. On Wednesday morning to meet Sir John Bankes at Sir R. Long's at 9 in the morning about settling the business of 5,000l. with said Bankes.
The next vacancy of a landwaiter in London port [is to be reserved] for Thomas Theed for [or on the nomination of] Mr. Alderman Backwell.
[Ordered] that there be a supersedeas upon the extent against Sir John Shaw until further order.
To-morrow week, at 9 in the morning, appointed for all persons concerned (viz., Lady Harvey, Lord St. John, and Col. Panton) as Rangers or Keepers of New Park to produce their titles, evidences and witnesses. Write them to attend then. The Order of Council concerning the case is to be got.
Ordered that Mr. Lawrence fee the King's Counsel to argue whether smiths' forges are liable to Hearth duty or not.
Sir Allen Apsley to have a warrant for the arrears due to him before he surrender his patent [as Master of the Hawks].
A privy seal [ordered to be prepared] for Alderman Backwell for 6 months' interest, as by the account stated by the auditor to June 25 last.
Warrant for 500l. to Mr. Benj. Tayler.
Warrant for a privy seal for 5,000l. advanced for Madame [the Duchess of Orleans] by Sir Robt. Vyner and Alderman Backwell.
Warrant for the Customs Farmers for interest of [their] 200,000l. [loan.]
The orders for 22,000l. [?] that he [Backwell] had from the Navy are to be changed.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 11–13; DCXXIV. p. 127.]
Oct. 26.
Thursday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household.
The Treasurer of the Household has ordered, if Lord Ashley approve it, to make a reference to Sir Harbord upon Keymer's petition. Agreed.
The business about Smith and Kinge is to be heard to-morrow week. Summon them.
Warrant for the King's signature for the last Farmers of the Customs to detain in their hands for the King's use the dividend of the profits of the farm and all such moneys that belong to them for Sir John Shaw and Sir John Worsenam [Wolstenholme].
Warrant to be drawn for the arrest of Roger Browne. The warrant to be left with the gaol keeper of the prison.
Write Sir Ste. Fox and Capt. Cotter to attend my Lords tomorrow morning.
The Barbados [4½ per cent.] account is to be viewed by Sir R. Long and Sir Ro. Howard, and to be reported to my Lords.
Viscount Fauconberg is to shew Sir Ro. Howard what was the ready money laid down [disbursed] by his Lordship [on his Venice embassy] and what the incident charges of said embassy, so that the [repayment of the] first may be ready money and the other [may be] charged by warrants.
Sir G. Carteret to attend on Monday afternoon about Becford's business.
My Lords would not sign the order for Thomas Theed for the next landwaiter's place in London port, as preferred by Alderman Backwell, "but order mee [Sir Ro. Howard] to present him on the [next] vacancy."
Sir Ro. Howard to speak with the Commissioners of [Accounts at] Brooke House to desire that they will sit and meet for the delivery up of the Earl of Anglesey's books and accounts. Mr. Tompson is one [of the said Commissioners], brother to Sir William Tompson.
Sir Ro. Howard to attend the Attorney-General upon the affidavits of John David of Llantrisaint, co. Glamorgan, to enquire what can be done in it with all speed.
Widow Pickny to have 10l. on the dormant letters patent.
Sir Lionell Jenkins, Doctor of Civil Law at Exeter House, is to attend on Tuesday week about the Law Bill.
[Ordered that there be a] salary of 250l. per an. to Mr. Diggs for his care of Virginia about the Customs.
Sir R. Long, Sir G. Downing and Sir R. Howard to enquire and report concerning all petty farms of the Customs, how they stand let, what they are and how charged [as funds by orders drawn thereon].
Upon any alteration in the Customs my Lords will nominate and appoint, and see to putting in.
The business of Penryn [as to the establishing a] Custom House, &c. there, is referred to the Customs Commissioners.
[The business] concerning the entering of goods and paying of Customs upon entry or when, or to whom the Customs are due upon the change of [Customs] Farmers is to be determined according to practice, and according to the certificate and report from the King's officers of the Customs.
My Lords will move the King in Council that no more foreign built ships be naturalized for the future, but what is past and built to continue free as English ships or English built respectively, according as the King's warrant directs.
[Ordered] that a landwaiter be added to the existing landwaiters at the Peel [Pill] in Bristol port, and that John Freman be the person.
Write the Lord Mayor and Sir Robert Viner to attend my Lords, and appoint them a day.
To put my Lords in mind to consider of the officers' names presented by the Customs Commissioners.
My Lords to know the King's pleasure about Henry Newberrie for [the place of] an additional Surveyor [of Customs].
As Prince Rupert has a dormant warrant for 4,000l. per an., see one for the additional 2,000l. per an.
Warrant for Lord Leicester's creation money.
Warrant for the allowance of the 10 per cent. of the Customs [of goods imported in the ships] "Anne" and "Berkeley Castle."
Sir John Skelton's 100l. per an. [as Deputy Governor of Plymouth] to be established on Sir Ste. Fox [i.e. on the establishment of the Paymaster of the Forces] and his incident charges to be considered by my Lords. Go to Mr. Williamson about it.
My Lords to meet to-morrow morning at nine o'clock.
Ordered (upon Mr. Benjamine Cooling's petition for the place of King's waiter in Bristol, as referred to my Lords by the King on the 23rd Dec. last), that my Lords consent and allow of this.
Summon Mr. Nutt to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning. Mr. Thomas Crisp will send it.
Sir Edwd. Deering's petition read. Ordered that it [the order in question] be transferred to the foreign salt farm as desired.
Several things to be represented to the Treasury Lords [as follows, viz.]
The letters for Virginia, &c. In the margin: agreed.
The paper stating the interest between His Majesty and the late [Customs] Farmers. In the margin: Agreed according to the practice certified by the King's officers.
By what means the [Customs] Commissioners may come to have notice what customs are in petty farm; the several collectors not being able to settle their accounts till direction be given therein. In the margin: Referred to Sir R. Howard, Sir R. Long and Sir G. Downing.
The charge against Booke Booky.
To acquaint my Lords that though the Custom House be now settled at Falmouth yet the King's officers proceed to act still at Penryn; alleging that the Custom House was there settled by His Majesty and the Privy Council.
To pray my Lords' directions whether any other officers besides collectors shall give any other security than their own bonds: and what sum my Lords will admit any one surety shall be bound in. In the margin: Only the collector to give other security. The rule of securities [to be as in the cases of] the Hearthmoney [officers].
To represent to my Lords how prejudicial it is that foreign built ships should be made free and to pay my Lords' directions [on the question whether] if a ship be made free with the words "that she shall enjoy all the privileges of English built ships" in case they import any goods contrary to the Act of Navigation, whether notwithstanding her being so free as aforesaid the goods shall not pay Strangers' duties. In the margin: We will represent it to the King that those already made free must enjoy all the privileges according to the warrants.
To crave their Lordships' directions concerning fees demanded in the Petty Bag office and the Exchequer offices; concerning fees demanded for writs of assistance and copies of records for his Majesty's service. In the margin: [Observe such practice] as hath been used.
To acquaint my Lords with the intention of making some alteration in the Custom House [for accommodation] of the [Customs] Commissioners' seats. In the margin: [Let it be done] as the Commissioners shall order.
To know my Lords' pleasure whether the riding surveyors or 2 of them shall go together or all three severally. In the margin: Two to Bristol, one northward; those at Bristol to divide there.
To pray my Lords' directions what Custom shall be paid for seal oil: the late Lord Treasurer [Southampton] having made an order in the case, by whose death that order is void. In the margin: The [late] Lord Treasurer's order confirmed.
To acquaint my Lords that one Wm. Butcher of Wapping having brought into the port of London some wines and other merchandize and landed them by certificate of the Coast Collector pretended to be given by the Collector of Dartmouth; and the [said] Collector signifying he had not granted any such certificate; whereby there is ground to believe that the goods came from beyond seas; notice hath been three times left at his house that he should attend the Customs Commissioners concerning it, which he hath not done: it is submitted to my Lords whether they would not think fit by their serjeant or messenger to take him into custody. In the margin: a messenger [to take him] in custody and [in the warrant for his arrest] recite the reason herein.
To acquaint my Lords with Mr. Banks his case concerning cambrics, and to know whether they will direct a trial at the King's charge or to let it pass. In the margin: Agreed by general consent not to try this as yet.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 14–18.]
Oct. 27.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Sir Thomas Clifford.
The business of the Band of Pensioners to be done [i.e. the order is to be charged] on the First Fruits as formerly.
To send to Sir George Downing [to know] about the [arrangement as to the charging of orders on] quarters of the Customs, and to speak with him and Sir Robert Long how 'twas agreed whether any quarter should satisfy the following [melius the preceding quarter's deficit on the orders charged thereon] if overcharged.
To speak with Mr. Laurence about the Lincolnshire business of Melish to clear the matter whether it (Tenths) may not remit more than it gets for the King.
William Gibbon, recommended to my Lords by Sir John Banks for a landwaiter's place in London port, [is to be preferred] to the next vacancy.
Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord and Sir G. Downing to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon about Sherwood Forest.
George Street to be a landwaiter at Bristol presently, and [means are to be taken] by the next vacancy to keep the number [down to that in the establishment] by granting none in the place.
The names of several officers for the Customs to be appointed by my Lords are to be drawn up for them to appoint [in the form] as the paper from the Customs is altered.
Viscount Fauconberg's [account of] money disbursed, being 467l. 10s. 0d., is to be presented to my Lords to order the payment of it. His incident charges, being 1,156l., are to be charged on the quarter of the Customs commencing at Lady Day, 1673, after Sir John Banks's 6,000l., if he be there fixed.
The instructions of Lord Baltimore are to be made in a letter from the Treasury Lords to the Governor or Deputy Governor of Maryland.
"The report of the Commissioners of the Customs I have ordered to be entered concerning Customs to whom they belong upon change of Farmers: according to practize."
Send to Mr. John Fen and Mr. Rob. Waite to be here on Monday afternoon next about the business of Beckford.
Sir Thomas Littleton brought in his account [of cash, &c. in his hands as lately joint Treasurer of the Navy] and there remained an item or balance of 5,800l. intended to [be by him] detained for his safety [security] in incidents.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 19–20.]
Oct. 27. [Charnock's memoranda.]
Enquire of the warrant for concealed lands in co. Cardigan.
Query: what done about the Dean and Chapter of Lichfield. Mr. Castleton followed it: [viz.] about Dymchurch pension
[Ibid. DCXXIV. p. 127.]
Oct. 31.
Tuesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, the Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
The letter from the Collector of Bristol is to be sent to the Customs Commissioners with an order that Edward Cresset be a landwaiter in the place of some that are not yet come in. In the margin: Only a letter to the Commissioners as an order.
Mr. Mounteney to send an account why the order for the payment of all the King's officers [of the Customs] their 3 years' arrears should not [extend to] pay Lawson as well as others. See Lawson's petition.
Write to Mr. Pepys that the report to be received about the East India business [viz., as to the freight] of the King's ships [the "Leopard," &c.] let to the [East India] Company may be ready on Thursday morning next, at which time the Attorney-General has appointed Sir John Bankes to be with him. Mr. Pepys is not to fail to meet them.
Keymer's business to be done according to Sir C. Harbord's report.
Send to Mr. Hall [to know] what process are returned upon the last imprest rolls, and what issues are returned upon the distringases.
My Lords to know from the Secretary of State the account of the 700,000l. [sic for 70,000l.] per mensem upon [for] the militia [viz. as to] what has been received [thereon] and how it stands.
Sir William Bayly and Capt. Cox, Sir George Downinge and Mr. Evelinge to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon to bring a state of such moneys as they have received, showing how [same have been] issued.
My Lords will report to the King in Council concerning the request of Thomas Gefford; the duties of which goods were reported by the [Customs] Commissioners to be about 150l. per an. [The Commissioners] to attend my Lords in the afternoon at [the Privy] Council with their opinion that 'tis not proper to change the law for 150l.
A letter for my Lords to sign to the Collector of Bristol to hasten payment of moneys, [my Lords] having been acquainted that none yet has been paid.
To summon Sir Robert Paston, farmer of the farm of [unwrought] wood that they [he] grant out no more commissions of seizure. [Paston is] to bring the copy of the grant and of one of the commissions of seizures on Monday afternoon next.
An order to Mr. Culleford that he desist from soliciting the causes of seizures; it belonging to the Solicitor of the Customs.
All the riding surveyors [of the Customs] to go first to Bristol before they separate and to have 15s. a day while they are in service.
Mr. Newberrie [to be] one of the Surveyors General in the searchers' office with the [same] salary as the rest.
The healing money: warrant for it on some good fund.
Mr. Lawrence to attend the Privy Council about the case of Pickas about the habeas corpus from the King's Bench and the affidavits.
A warrant from time to time for the salary of the Master of the Ordnance.
Sir Rob. Long and Sir Rob. Howard to advise upon the changing of the privy seal for the ordinary service of the Great Wardrobe.
Sir Rob. Viner, Sir Rich. Furd [Ford] and others are called in about the Mint about the false guineas. Sir Rob. Viner said Mr. Hower [Hoare], Comptroller of the Mint, came to him and told him of a false piece that came from his [Viner's] man, John Shepperd. Mr. Hower advised John Shepperd should be examined privately by Sir Rob. Viner. They told him his house was searched in the night. The Comptroller said he knew nothing of it. Then Sir Ro. Viner told Doyley he would prosecute him at law. Then Sir Ro. Viner took Doyley by a constable by warrant from the Lord Mayor. Two certified how Sir Robert's house was entered. The constable said Doyley cald him, told him he had 2 warrants, desired the constable to keep the peace. Doyley knockt; for the constable desired him to stay, [and] not do it in the night. Doyley told Sheppard he should prove that the false piece came from him.
Sir Rich. Furd, Lord Mayor, says a warrant is granted upon ordinary suggestions. There was a warrant for all counterfeit metals. This was all the warrant Doyley had. Sir Richard Furd said 'twas proved Doyley brought two soldiers from the Tower. Thought it his duty to demand security to answer. It might be a way to rob goldsmiths.
Sir Tho. Clifford said Doyley was the King's servant, and desired to send to his masters. His bail refused.
Doyly: the guinea was sent to the Tower. The officers [of the Mint] considered it a business to be looked into. Sir Richard Ford had owned that in his mayoralty the officers of the Mint might search. There was 13 counter [feit] guineas at Sir Robt. Viner's. Called them gilt shillings. After [wards] confessed and said they were cutt. No soldier, but a Yeoman of the Guard in the Tower. He whispered the constable: bade him be private. Sheppard at the door talked with him, and readily let him in. Doyley said he was not willing to give him an account to give it to another. In Sheppard's pockets but two sixpences, and in his drawer but 2 braze half crowns. Doyley said he would take Sheppard's word, and supposed when Sir Robt. Viner knew of it he would find it out overnight. They denied. Next day confessed the guineas that were cut.
Sir Robt. Viner said that Stratford went and assisted Doyley. Love was no more his porter than others. Stratford was with Doyley till 10 at night, and after that Doyley came at 3 in the morning. Doyley said the porter did not tell him of it till 3 o'clock in the morning.
Lord Ashley said Doyley was hot, but had done some service, but not to be justified in his affront to a great magistrate at three in the morning. My Lord Mayor had some reason.
But Mr. Treasurer [of the Household] said he should not have done as my Lord Mayor did to an officer of the Mint, and 'twas amiss Doyley's bail was denied to be taken and [that he, Doyley, was] denied [leave] to send to his masters.
Sir Rob. Viner said that Doyley has made it town talk about counterfeits, and that makes him earnest.
Sir Robert Viner is to have a copy of Mr. Doyle's report.
Doyley acquainted the offices he had found out the false gold, and afterwards heard there was an inditement; he asked for a warrant for the discovery of false gold, but had no encouragement. The bill of indictment was read against Doyley. He shewed the reference. Sir Ro. Viner said he would answer it to my Lords. He [Doyley] desired, as he was employed by the officers of the Mint, to have time to send for bail, but was put in the Bail Dock.
To word some expressions from Doyley to be for the reparation of Sir Ro. Viner. Sir Richard Ford to continue the discharges of all sides and to bring it to Sir Ro. Howard, my Lords will then consider Doyley's services. Ordered: That no more issues be sent against Sir Rich. Ford as yet.
To enquire of Mr. Leigh and Mr. Pell for searchers.
Lord St. John et al. called in concerning the New Park. Sir Rob. Howard takes a copy of Lord St. John's and Col. Panton's [respective grants] which are the same and brought in by them both. Likewise a copy of Sir Daniel Harvey's [grant] of the Keepership and Sir Lionel Tolmesh's [grant] of the Rangership. Lady Harvey as yet denies the two last to shew them. The Lady Harvey's agent said he [would] come to me [Sir Ro. Howard] to bring the grant.
To send to the officers of the Works for the account of the 2,200l. imprested on a privy seal to William Harbord which they had the disposal of for the repair of the Great Park by Richmond.
The Great Wardrobe's ordinary charge of 25,876l. 18s. 0d. and the extraordinary of 5,520l. 1s. 0d. [are] to be passed.
Sir John Bankes's order for 6,800l. is to be upon either the London or the Country Excise.
A memorandum to be presented to the King to stop Lord St. John's grant till my Lords have heard it [the case]. An information to be preferred against all the titles in the New Park immediately. Also a commission for examining abuses in the same [New Park]. Both these ordered to Mr. Laurence.
"To speak with the alum people; if exported again my Lords allow it; if not to stop the condemnation," in the margin, "they are to come to me" [Sir R. Howard].
Josias Picques to give security to pay such fees as my Lords shall determine, and to attend my Lords on Friday week.
My Lords will sit on Mondays in the afternoon, Tuesday mornings, and Wednesday and Friday mornings.
A commission about Sherwood Forest, and the names in the letter must be [members] of the commission. Advice about this and about the New Park with Sir Ro. Long and Sir C. Harbord.
To speak with the Duke of Ormonde about Fitz Gerald's business.
Lord Townesend's petition for that part of the coal farm which is now in His Majesty's hands which is [the duty of] 4s. per chaldron of exported coals, is referred to the Customs Commissioners to examine and report their opinion thereon, in particular what the yearly value of the matters desired is and what rent was paid for the same when in farm.
Stay process against the Collector of Hearthmoney for London. [Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 21–6; Out Letters General III. p. 8.]