Appendix III

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 6, 1679-1680. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1913.

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'Appendix III', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 6, 1679-1680, ed. William A Shaw( London, 1913), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol6/p837 [accessed 8 November 2024].

'Appendix III', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 6, 1679-1680. Edited by William A Shaw( London, 1913), British History Online, accessed November 8, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol6/p837.

"Appendix III". Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 6, 1679-1680. Ed. William A Shaw(London, 1913), , British History Online. Web. 8 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol6/p837.

Appendix III

Prefatory Note.
The record calendared in this Appendix has only been discovered during the course of the present volume of Calendar. The existing official reference to the volume is here preserved, viz. "Out Letters Customs, Vol. VI." But the volume has nothing whatever to do with the Customs. It relates entirely to the Excise. It covers the period from 1667, May 30, to 1671, Aug. 23. The succeeding volume of Customs, styled "Out Letters Customs, Vol. VII," is similarly mis-styled. It relates entirely to the Excise, but contains only a transcript of the Sept., 1670, indenture of lease of the Excise.
Date. Nature and Substance of the Entry. Reference.
1667.
May 30.		 The Treasury Lords to the Farmers of the Excise of London, Middlesex and Surrey. Prepare a state of your present farm for our information, your rent, your payments of rent, what tallies of anticipation are struck upon you and remain unpaid and what constant payments are charged upon you. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 1.
Same to the Commissioners for the Country Excise for the like information relating to the Country Excise with the names of the Farmers of the several counties, the salaries of officers and cost of incidents. Ibid.
June 21. Treasury allowance of the 1667, June 24 quarter's salary bill, detailed, of the Excise Office in Bloomsbury. (Total, 866l. 6s. 0d.) Ibid, p. 2.
July 3. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer], to suspend for 28 days process against Sir Richard Otley and Col. Richard Scriven. Farmers of Excise, they being granted that extension of time for bringing up their agents in order to perfecting their accounts and paying in what is due from them. Ibid, p. 3.
July 10. Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Sir William Blackeston (on a reference from the King dated 1667, June 22 thereof) setting forth that he was one of the Sub-Commissioners of Excise for Northumberland, Newcastle and Durham until same was let to farm; that there then remained unpaid and charged upon him 277l. 17s. 0d.; that the Excise Commissioners abated 286l. of his bill of charges, which if allowed would have evened his account; that he contracted with the [Excise] Commissioners for 330l. for the arrears then standing out [upon the Excise of said Counties] and gave bond for same, but by reason of the country's poverty he was not able to get in the arrears. Now his bond is put in suit. Prays stay of proceedings. Ibid.
Same to same of the petition of Richard Braithwaite, Robert Hilton and John Thwayte, late Farmers of Excise of co. Westmorland, setting forth that in Feb. last they petitioned Treasurer Southampton, showing that they became Farmers of said county in 1662 for three years at 900l. per an. rent; and have paid all the rent thereof except 328l. of the last year, which sum has been endeavoured to be levied, but the poverty of the place is such that it cannot be got; that they were forced to make up every year's rent out of their own private estates, and have already sustained losses to the extent of 400l.; pray to be discharged of said arrcar. Ibid, pp. 3–4.
July 12. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer] to supersede process against Edmond Warcupp, Farmers of Excise for co. Wilts, "he having appeared before us and given us that satisfaction which leads us to direct your Lordship hereunto." Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 4.
July 17. Same to the Excise Commissioners. We have considered your report concerning Mr. Brathwaite, late Farmer of Excise for Westmoreland. Notwithstanding it is therein alleged that the Excise of Cumberland was better than that of Westmoreland, we see no cause to make any abatement. You are to take care that the 200l. be paid. Ibid.
July 24. Treasury reference to same of the petition of John Foorth, Farmer of the Excise of Kent for 2¾ years from Michaelmas, 1665, shewing that the plague has raged much and that one-third of the receipt of the whole county failed, his damage being great, and that he has laid before the Excise Commissioners good certificates from the places infected, making out his demands. (The like reference of the petition of Sir Francis Cobb, and of Sir William Blakestone.) Ibid, p. 5.
Aug. 1. The Treasury Lords to the Mayor and Justices of the Peace of Dover. The Farmers of the Excise of Kent complain that there is a great sum owing to them by the brewers of Dover, who have committed several frauds therein. They have applied to you for assistance, but found themselves wholly neglected by you and their officers abused and wounded in your town. We require you to give them due countenance and relief by putting the laws of Excise in execution. Ibid, pp. 5–6.
Aug. 13. Treasury warrant to Francis Stephens, serjeant at arms, to arrest Jeremy Bodley and Robert Manwaring, late collector[s] of Excise of the east division (riding) of South Wales, for detaining in their hands considerable sums of his Majesty's money. (The like warrant against Thomas Fletcher, Collector of the Excise of Shropshire, and against Marke Davyes, Collector of the Excise of co. Hereford.) Ibid, p. 6.
Aug. 17. The Treasury Lords to the Excise Commissioners. Where any Farmers of Excise keep money in their hands upon pretence of any abatements you are to take no notice of such pretensions without our order. And when we order you to state such pretences to allowances you are to find out what the said Farmers made of their farm for the period in question, including their reasonable charges for collection (to be proved before you upon oath) and where you find that the Farmer was no loser you are to report that no abatement be made him. Ibid, p. 7.
Aug. 19. The Treasury Lords to the Excise Commissioners to take care to prosecute George Rawley, Matthew Coppinger and William George for arrears of Excise due for co. Gloucester. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 7.
Aug. 21. Same to same to forbear till the end of Michaelmas term to prosecute Sir William Blakestone, kt., for the moiety of the moneys due from him for his farm of the Excise of Durham; and to the end of next Candlemas term for the other moiety thereof; he being allowed time till then. Ibid, p. 8.
Aug. 31. Treasury reference to same of the petition of Edward Watts and Edward Crosby, Farmers of Excise of co. Herts; praying for allowances by reason of the contagion. Ibid.
Treasury warrant to the Clerk of the Signet to engross the following draft privy seal for his Majesty's signature, being for allowance of defalcations to the Farmers of the Excise of London, Middlesex and Surrey. Said Farmers have represented their great loss in that farm from 1665, Nov. 8, to 1666, Dec. 25, by reason of the great plague and desired defalcation thereof as by the clauses in their farm. They have made it appear that their vouchers for that whole time did amount only to 143,780l., which was 13,700l. short of their rent, and that the charge of management and collection during that time was 11,000l. and that they would lose 2,300l. by bad debts by reason of the plague, and that the moiety of the imposition on imported strong waters at 8d. per gallon comes to 684l., or 27,684l. in all, and that the pains and hazard of their persons, being 17 in number, in the time of the late infection, and the advance of several great sums of money at 6 per cent. interest might well deserve an allowance of 12,000l. more. The said demands having been reported to the King in Council, the King hereby allows them the said 27,684l. by way of defalcations and abatement out of their rent. Further the King hereby promises that he will take their demand for beer and ale brewed within the limits of their farm and carried thence into other counties into further consideration when a report shall be made of the true state of their accounts, provided the said Farmers presently give bond to repay the abovesaid 684l. for the moiety of the 8d. per gallon on strong waters imported in case the same be by them recovered. [The privy seal hereon passed Sept. 11, but was vacated by the new privy seal of Oct. 10, infra, p. 842.] Ibid, pp. 10–12.
Sept. 6. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer] to supersede process against the [abovesaid] Farmers of Excise for London, etc. Ibid, p. 8.
Same to same to supersede process against Robert Butts and Thomas Butts, securities for the late Farmers of Excise of co. Suffolk. (Entry struck through.) Ibid, p. 9.
[?] Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Tho. Fletcher, late sub-collector of [Excise of cos.] Worcester, Hereford and Salop. Ibid.
Sept. 13. The Treasury Lords to the Justices of Peace of co. Monmouth. Philip Redmond, a collector of Excise in co. Monmouth, has made affidavit that he was abused and wounded by Thomas Kemis at the house of William Edward, victualler of Llanfair, co. Denbigh, when Redmond was demanding the Excise and that one Wroth Tydder, constable of Llandashire, to whom he repaired for assistance (with said Kemis pursuing him) was altogether negligent of his duty, and likewise Mr. John Walters, a Justice of Peace for said county, refused him any manner of assistance. We desire your utmost care in the impartial search into this business as being a thing of very dangerous consequence and great damage to his Majesty's revenue. Ibid.
Sept. 16. Treasury warrant [to the King's Remembrancer] to supersede process against Robert Butts, late a Sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Suffolk, and against Benjamin Goodwin and Thomas Butts, his sureties. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 10.
Sept. 23. Same to Serjeant Stevens to discharge from custody Thomas Fletcher, in custody for non-payment of arrears of Excise in his hands as late Sub-Commissioner of Excise of Salop, Hereford and Worcester: he having since paid and satisfied same. Ibid, p. 12.
Sept. 24. Treasury allowance of an undated memorial as follows from the Excise Commissioners. We received an order from Treasurer Southampton dated at Salisbury, 1665, Sept. 7, by which the moneys on the farms of the Excise, after the tallies then struck should be paid off, are to be applied to the payment of the three great branches of his Majesty's expenses, the Household, the Guards and Tangier garrison; and in the said order are particularly expressed the several counties assigned to each payment; also the garrison of Pendennis, the Duke of Cambridge's and Duke of Monmouth's pensions were by the said order to be paid out of some of the said counties. The tallies struck before the date of said order being near paid off we find that by the said order the whole revenue of the Excise under our charge was assigned for the payments aforesaid without any respect had to the garrison of Plymouth (which has been charged upon the farm of [the Excise of] Devon, although not mentioned in said order, and amounts to 6,075l. 15s. 4d. per an.), the interest of the [various Excise Farmers'] advance money, the pensions of the Master of the Temple and Capt. Mason, house rent and contingent charges [of the Excise Office], contingent losses by the plague and bad debts, salaries of the Auditor and comptroller of Excise, our own [the Excise Commissioners'] salaries and our officers' salaries. We perceived that it would be a very difficult and perplexed business to pursue the said order and indeed [would] prove no ways advantageous to the gentlemen that were to receive the moneys. We therefore, before the said order came to take place, desired to discourse [with] the Cofferer, Sir Stephen Fox and Mr. Pepys, who upon notice very readily assented and after a full debate and consideration had of the state of the whole matter, finding the many inconveniences that may happen to arise by the assignment by particular counties they have unanimously agreed in propounding to your Lordships the following way and method to be observed in the future issuing of the Excise moneys under our care, viz., that the farm rent of the Cornwall Excise, amounting to 2,100l. per an. be wholly reserved for the payment of the garrison of Pendennis; that the Duke of Mon-mouth's pension of 6,000l. per an. be paid quarterly by equal portions and the Master of the Temple's pension of 37l. 6s. 8d. per an. and Capt. Mason's pension of 20l. per an. be paid according to their respective orders or privy seals; that the Cofferer have 20,000l. per an. paid him by equal portions quarterly; and that after the interest of the advance money, house rent and contingent charges, contingent losses by plague and bad debts, and Excise Office salaries, the remainder be divided between the Guards and Tangier to be paid as follows, viz., Sir Stephen Fox for the Guards to receive 5,000l. and then Mr. Pepys for Tangier 5,000l. and so successively 5,000l. one after the other; and there being 280l. per an. more charged to Tangier than the Guards, that sum to be paid at the end of every year to the Treasurer of Tangier over and above his equal dividend with Sir Stephen Fox. If your Lordship will make void all former orders for issuing Excise moneys and direct the payments aforesaid it will keep our accounts clear and even and give a credit and reputation to the Office, and be very satisfactory to all persons concerned. And further if you shall order that neither [tallies for the garrison of] Plymouth nor any other interloping tallies be struck on this part of the Excise in prejudice of the payments aforesaid and to direct that what shall be advanced hereafter on the new letting of the farms be proportionately divided between the Household, the Guards and Tangier we doubt not (unless unforseen calamities by the plague or otherwise happen) but in a short time to recover what we are cast behind in our payments upon the accounts aforesaid. Ibid, pp. 19–21.
Sept. 25. The Treasury Lords to the Mayor of Sarum. Edmond Warcupp, Farmer of Excise for co. Wilts, has demanded defalcations for his loss by the plague which continued in Sarum from 1666, Mar. 26, to near Lady day, 1667, amounting to 1,667l. 2s. 6d. The validity of said demands can be best examined on the place. We send you their papers of demand and desire you to examine same with the help of two or more aldermen. You are to summon the brewers of Sarum before you and require them to produce their guile books for said period and examine the same upon the oath of said brewers. Certify us the true state hereof with all speed with the loss you conceive the Farmers sustained and what number of persons died of the plague within the said city between 1666, Mar. 25, and the time when it ceased and how many died of the contagion in the half year preceding, and in what time the plague most raged and when [it] ceased. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 13.
Same to Sir Walter St. John, John Pledwell, John Northend, William Sadler, and Mr. Ipsley, Justices of Peace for co. Wilts, for the like report and certificate as to said Warcupp's losses from the contagion in the town of Wootton Bassett between 1665, Sept. 29, and Mar. 25 following, for which he claims 30l. defalcations. (The like letter dated Sept. 23 to Mr. Jeoffrey Daniell, Francis Wroughton and James Ash, Justices of Peace at Marlborough, for the like report and certificate as to said Warcupp's losses from the contagion in said town of Marlborough from 1665, Sept. 29, until 1666, November, for which he claims 140l. defalcations.) Ibid, pp. 14, 15
Sept. 26. Treasury allowance of the 1667, Sept. 29 quarter's salary bill of the Excise Office detailed. (Total, 816l. 6s. 3d.) Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 18.
Sept. 27. Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of William Byam: shewing that he was joined with Henry Leicester as Sub-Commissioner for Excise in co. Somerset at Michaelmas, 1661, and until 25 Mar., 1662, at which time he relinquished his co-partnership before the Chief Commissioners of Excise, and as there was an arrear at that time he applied to Treasurer Southampton, who in consideration of his services and losses promised the remitment of the arrears; but not prosecuting an order he is now called on for same, being 359l. 5s. 4d. Prays remission of same. Ibid. p. 16.
Oct. 1. Sir G. Downing to same to attend the Treasury Lords to-morrow about an enclosed petition [missing]. Ibid.
The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshawe to supersede process against Thomas Hodgson as security for William Stanhope and partners, late Farmers of Excise for Co. Notts; they having six weeks' extension of time to pass their accounts. Ibid, p. 17.
Oct. 2. Same to same to supersede process against John Willoughby and the rest of the Farmers of Excise for co. Northampton; they having six weeks granted them to pay their arrears. Ibid.
Oct.10. Privy seal for allowances of defalcations as follows to the Farmers of Excise of London, Middlesex and Surrey (for reasons, ut supra, p. 839): viz.: 27,684l. for losses by the plague and 2,500l. for beer and ale brewed within the limits of their farm and carried thence into other counties: all provided that the privy seal of Sept. 11 last for allowing them 27,684l. be hereby vacated. Ibid, pp. 21–2.
Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Timothy Coles, late Farmer of [Excise of] South Wales, shewing that Walter Vaughan and Richard Guynn took the farm for three years ending 1665, Sept. 29, and that petitioner became their surety and partner and paid his share of the rent duly, but there still remains unpaid 335l. which his partners are responsible for, and under took to discharge petitioner [of] but have not performed it so that he is now sued to an extent. Prays a supersedeas of the extent. Ibid, p. 23.
Same to same of the petition of Thomas Storey and John Millicent, Farmers of Excise in co. Cambridge and Isle of Ely, and of John Dover and John Hunt, Sub-Commissioners [of Excise, Ibid.] shewing that they are represented to be in debt 668l. 7s. 11d. upon their farm ending 1665, Sept. 29; in answer to which there has been allowed them 197l. 18s. 0d. by Treasurer Southampton; and [there is] 420l. more due to them [as allowance] for drink imported out of co. Huntingdon [which is to be deducted] from Major Waldon, thus leaving a remainder of 50l. 9s. 11d. which said 50l. was lost by the plague, and they hope will be allowed; but when their losses were reported to Treasurer Southampton, being 1,658l. 5s. 11d. in 1¼ years ended 1666, Sept. 29, and proved on oath, yet they were allowed but 625l. 5s. 11d. and they were forced to maintain three officers in Cambridge during the plague, so that they conceive they had hard measure. Pray stay of prosecution and that the abovesaid 420l. be laid on Lyonell Waldon, Farmer of Excise of co. Huntingdon. Ibid.
Oct. 14. Treasury warrant to the Auditor of the Receipt for tallies of assignment to discharge the Farmers of the London Excise of the sum of 30,184l. out of their rent as by the privy seal of the 10th inst. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 24.
Oct. 15. Same to Visct. Fanshaw. King's Remembrancer, to supersede process against Timothy Coles, one of the Farmers of the Excise of South Wales, on his accounts, wherein the Treasury Lords have received some satisfaction from the Excise Commissioners. Ibid, p. 25.
Oct. 29. Same to same to supersede process against Richard Brathwaite, Robert Hilton and John Throasby, late Farmers of Excise of Westmorland, the Excise Commissioners having informed the Treasury Lords that said farm was overvalued at the letting and that the Farmers had a bad bargain. Ibid.
Nov. 7. The Treasury Lords to the Solicitor General for a great seal for a lease of the Excise of Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Bucks, to Alderman Backwell and the rest of the present Farmers of the London Excise, viz., for three years from June 24 next at a rent of 54,780l. per an. with such covenants, etc., as are in the present lease of the Country Excise, excepting only that their rent is to be payable into the Exchequer, and that the three quarters' advance due upon the present farm of those counties is to be continued and made [re]payable out of the last half year of this lease. Ibid, p. 26.
Same to the Attorney or Solicitor General to view the grant of the present Farmers of the London Excise and to certify us your opinion whether the strong water imported into London port from beyond sea be comprised within said grant, and whether any [covenant be in the] grant for defalcation on it. (The like letter dated Nov. 12 concerning the foreign liquors imported into the outports and there landed and paying the duty of Excise and afterwards transported, brought in and vended in London port by certificate and whether, if same be contained in the London Excise Farmers' lease they have a right to defalcation for the value of the Excise paid in the said outports for such liquors.) Ibid. pp. 26, 27.
Nov. 11. Same to Serjt. Maynard to be of Council for the Commissioners [Farmers] of the London Excise in the trial at the Exchequer bar on Wednesday next between them and one Terry, a strong water man, in which trial the Excise revenue is much concerned. Ibid, p. 27.
Nov. 14. Same to [the King's Remembrancer] to suspend for 21 days the process against Nicholas Batailhe and Hugh Tresse, late Farmers of Excise for co. Notts, they alleging that the money which they have in their hands were formerly ordered by Treasurer Southampton to be respited unto them. Ibid. p. 28.
Nov. 14 Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of the abovesaid Batailhe and Tresse. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 28.
The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw to suspend process till Easter term next against William Byam, late a Sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset, and Sir Edward Wingfeild, kt., and Joseph Garret, esq., his sureties. Ibid, p. 29.
Nov. 18. Same to the Excise Commissioners to forthwith put in suit the bonds of Mr. Forth, Farmer of the Kent Excise. Ibid.
Nov. 22. Treasury warrant to John Forth, present Sub-Farmer of the Excise of Middlesex and Surrey, to permit Elias Ashmole, Controller of Excise, to have a free sight of the vouchers for those counties which he complains he cannot obtain a sight of from you for the better performing the duty of his office. Ibid, p. 32.
Nov. 25. Same to the Solicitor General to insert in the draft of the lease of the Excise of the five counties of Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Bucks, a covenant for [said grant to include] all imported liquors [imported] into [any the outports of] England, Wales and Berwick, except London. Middlesex and Surrey; at the yearly rent of 2,000l. per an. Ibid, p. 30.
Same to the Attorney General for a great seal for a lease of the Excise of London, Westminster, Middlesex and Surrey, to the present Farmers of the said Excise for the like term of three years, and under the same rent and covenants as in the present grant. Ibid.
Same to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer]. We are desirous to retrench and take off all extra-ordinary and unnecessary charge to his Majesty and to reduce all things to ancient form of law and the course of the Exchequer. And having heard what you have to say as to the point of your fees for bonds taken in your Office and considering that the Excise is a late revenue and that the bonds to be taken by the Collectors and Farmers thereof are many and are for great sums so that your ordinary fee would be burdensome, it is hereby directed that there be taken by you and your deputies and clerks, 6s. 8d. and no more for each bond; and that you take four quarterly bonds of each Farmer and that upon producing their tallies at the end of each quarter you deliver up their bond for that quarter without further trouble or charge to them: and as to their quietus [it is hereby directed] that they take out only one [quietus for the whole of their farm account] which is to be at the expiration of their farm. Ibid, p. 31.
Same to the Attorney and Solicitor General. By the enclosed paper [missing] you will perceive a doubt raised in some parts of Wales which if not timely stopped, may prove of great inconvenience if not an utter overthrow of the Excise. Report your opinion hereon. Ibid.
Nov. 27. Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Edwinn Scrimpshaw [Farmer of Excise] of co. Sussex, for allowance of 84l. 0s. 7d. for the loss which he sustained by the plague in that county in places infested, in the half year ended 1666, Mar. 25, and of 56l. 14s. 7d. for beer imported out of the county of Surrey to 1667, Mar. 25. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 32.
Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Samuel Sterling, Alderman of London, in behalf of himself, et al., Farmers of the Excise of Norfolk. Ibid, p. 35.
Nov. 29. Same to same of the petition of Mathew Coppinger. (See under Dec. 4, infra.) Ibid.
Treasury open warrant requiring all masters, etc., of ships and all owners of houses, warehouses, cellars or other places wherein imported liquors are laid, to suffer William Bucknall, et al., Farmers of the London Excise (who have been granted a farm of the said imported liquors from 1667, Nov. 28, to June 25 next) to search such ships, houses, etc., according to law and to gauge and take an account of all exciseable liquors imported or that shall be imported, and to collect the Excise for the same, "and to suffer them to have a convenient place in all Custom houses where the merchants or importers may resort to make their business and payments." Ibid, p. 33.
Dec. 4. The Treasury Lords to same to stop process against Mathew Coppinger, late Farmer of Excise of Bristol, on his paying 246l. 1s. 8d. in cash, and, for the remainder of his debt, giving an assignment to you upon the seamen's order on the Eleven Months' Tax, which shall be allowed you as so much cash on your account. Ibid, pp. 33–4.
Prefixing: said Coppinger's petition; shewing that he was ordered by Treasurer Southampton to pay a moiety of the arrears of said farm and Mr. Rowley, his partner, the other moiety, the whole amounting to 2,492l. 2s. 8d.; in pursuance whereof he has paid 700l., thus leaving 686l. due on the whole account, of which 496l. 1s. 8d. is petitioner's share, the last payment being due from him Nov. 20 last, and he having been a long time in London in custody and much disabled to pay the same, but has prevailed with Mr. Warcup to let him have an assignment of his for 250l. lent by him to his Majesty, and has also raised 246l. which he will pay down. Prays that the said assignment of 250l. may be accepted [as cash].
Dec. 6. Treasury warrant to the Commissioners for the Country Excise to continue the like payment of interest of 6 per cent. as formerly for such money as is and shall be advanced by the several Farmers of the country Excise upon their entrance on their farms, they [first] clearing their rent in due manner. Ibid, p. 34.
Dec. 11. Same to Visct. Fanshaw [the King's Remembrancer], to continue till next term the suspension of the process against Richard Braythwayte, Robert Hilton and John Thwayte, late Farmers of Excise of co. Westmorland. Ibid, p. 35.
Dec. 18. The Treasury Lords to the Attorney General. Divers [Sub] Commissioners and officers of Excise have not taken their oaths or not registered the same with the Auditor of Excise according to law. The said Auditor is hereby to furnish you with an exact list of the names of such, and you are to give an information against them in the Exchequer. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 36.
Dec. 19. Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of John Willoughby, Farmer of Excise of co. Northampton. Ibid, p. 37.
Dec. 20. The Treasury Lords to the Attorney General for a great seal for a lease of the Excise of Northumberland, Durham, Newcastle and Berwick to Thomas Calverd for three years from June 24 next at 5,170l. per an. rent with the like covenants as in the lease of the Excise of Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Bucks. In this and in all other leases of the country Excise the King is to be secured from all demands for [defalcations for] imported liquors. Ibid, p. 36.
Dec. 23. Treasury allowance of the 1667, Christmas quarter's salary of the Excise Office, detailed: (total, 866l. 6s. 3d.): but we "direct that after this quarter no more salary be paid to Sir Edmond Turner, for that the foreign spirits are let in farm; nor to Edward Strange, solicitor, we thinking one solicitor enough, nor to John Champant, correspondent and keeper of the bonds; and we desire that the Commissioners themselves do keep the correspondence and that the bonds be delivered to Mr. John Ball, Cashier General; nor [any salary be paid] to Thomas Rudyard, teller, for that the Cashier, we suppose, ought to receive and tell the moneys without putting the King to that charge; nor to William Culliford, Surveyor and Examiner of the securities tendered by the Farmers; and also that you discharge one of the transcribing clerks, and we direct the Commissioners themselves to take care of that matter; also we desire the Commissioners to certify us what need there is of the office and place of John Collins accomptant, John Wood assistant to the Teller, Richard Brown messenger and Thomas Lownds clerk in the Treasury [of Excise]." Ibid, pp. 37–8
Dec. 31 The Treasury Lords to the Excise Commissioners, Auditor and Comptroller. Several of the present Farmers of Excise are much in arrear of their rent. For the future you are to keep them strictly to their covenants and allow no interest to any that fail therein. Ibid, p. 39.
Treasury order [to same] to allow 92l. 10s. 0d. for interest in Mr. Forth's account of the 1667, June 24 half year's rent of the Excise of Kent; and to deliver up his bond on payment of the balance. Ibid.
Prefixing: breviat of said account (charge: rent for said time, 7,500l.; discharge: payments, detailed, ranging from 1667, April 18, to Dec. 24, 7,387l. 10s. 0d.).
1667–.
Jan. 8.		 The Treasury Lords to the Attorney General to take care to except the town of Newmarket out of the lease of the Excise of co. Suffolk, as said town is to be granted with the Excise of co. Cambridge, for that it was so in the last lease thereof. Ibid, p. 40.
Jan. 9. The Treasury Lords to the Mayor and Justices of Rochester. There are considerable quantities of brandies and strong waters imported into Rochester and parts adjacent for which much money is exported out of this kingdom, " and by reason whereof the less of what made here expended: upon which grounds there is little reason to encourage the importation thereof.' As there is a considerable duty of Excise due to the King for same, you are to give the officers all assistance for the collection thereof, and put the law in execution against all offenders. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 40.
Jan. 10. Sir George Downing to the Auditor of the Receipt to register on the Country Excise the following sums in manner [or course] as agreed upon between the Cofferer of the Household and Sir Stephen Fox, viz: Ibid. p. 41.
28,771l. 16s. 8d. already registered for the Guards.
12,000l. 0s. 0d. for the Household in 12 orders.
30,000l. 0s. 0d. for the Guards in exchange of orders on the Poll.
15,481l. 4s. 0d. for the Garrisons.
and then Tangier is to come in course with the Guards and Household in case it shall be continued upon the said [country] Excise according to a new agreement of the [said] several Receivers [of the Forces, Household and Tangier].
Jan. 13. The Treasury Lords to Sir John Talbott. Each Farmer of the Country Excise is to advance a quarter's rent upon his new lease. You are to take care that each of them do accordingly pay into the Receipt so much as may make up their present quarter's advance [into] a full quarter's rent as by their new leases. Ibid.
Jan. 17. Same to the Justices of Peace of co. Denbigh. We are again informed by the Excise Commissioners that several people that sell drink in co. Denbigh (and especially in the towns of Denbigh and Llanrwst and other parts of Denbigh Land) do still oppose the Excise, shut their doors against the officers and abuse them notwithstanding the earnest endeavours that have been used and the several letters which have been sent to you to bring things to better order. We once more entreat the speedy application of your best endeavours to oppose this growing mischief. We enclose the opinion of the King's Counsel as to the opening of doors and desire you to interpose your authority herein to protect the officers from violence and we desire you to keep your monthly meetings as the law requires, at least till this business be settled. Col. Whitley, the person chiefly concerned under his Majesty, makes a journey purposely to you, confident of your vigorous assistance as you have given such eminent testimonial of your very good affections to his Majesty. Ibid. p. 42.
Jan. 29. Same to the Solicitor General to insert a clause in lease of the Essex Excise to correspond with that in the London Excise Farmers' lease as to beer and ale exported out of one county into another; so that instead of the covenants in the former leases (whereby the lessees covenant to pay the Excise on such beer when they shall recover it from the importer) there be only one covenant to permit the lessees at their own cost to bring actions against the importers for [the Excise of such] beer imported into [the limits of] their farm and that the lessors shall not without consent of the lessees release any such action: the lessees to save the lessors harmless from all costs and damages in respect of such suits. As the Farmers of this [Essex] Excise are seven in number it is unnecessary for them to give any other security [than themselves]. Also insert a clause that, if the rent be in arrear three months and eight days, their lease shall be exposed to farm to any other that will take it. (The like letter to the Attorney General with the additional instructions that the payment of the salaries of the Excise Commissioners and officers be made only by Treasury warrant and that the present Farmers be exempt from serving on juries during their farm.) Ibid. pp. 43–4
Feb. 7. Treasury reference to the Excise Commissioners of the petition of Aphra Stevens, shewing that her husband being a Sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Kent, and one Wriothsley his partner, there was an arrear on the county for which said Stevens became bound, that Wriothsley died insolvent, leaving 250l. thereof unpaid. Petitioner as executor prays that 50l. may be accepted for all her husband's [liability] he being only security and having never received any of the said money. Out Letters (Customs) VI. p. 44.
The Treasury Lords to same. Sarah Estcourte, relict of John Estcourte, deceased, heretofore Farmer of Excise of Wilts, prays allowance of the 11l. in arrear on the last quarter of his farm upon account of the loss by the late plague at Wootton Bassett. If no allowance has been made him in respect of said plague, you are hereby to allow him said 11l. and deliver up his bonds. Ibid.
Feb. 11. Treasury warrant to same, in accordance with the privy seal of Jan. 23 last to allow in account to John Forth, late Farmer of Excise of co. Kent, the sum of 6,491l. for the losses therein by reason of the plague for 1¼ years, 1665, Sept. 29, to 1666, Dec. 25, and likewise to allow him 295l. 17s. 9d. for interest on his advance money during that time. Upon his payment of 884l. into the receipt of the Excise, you are to deliver up his bonds. Ibid, p. 45.
Feb. 17. The Treasury Lords to same. Several Farmers of Excise have made demands for losses by reason of the plague within the limits of their farm and have, upon that accompt, from time to time kept considerable parts of their rents in their hands. You are to allow interest upon their advance money to such Farmers for such money only as they have actually paid into the Treasury of the Excise every quarter, and also interest for so much as has been already allowed by the late Treasurer Southampton, or which shall be allowed by us in respect of the said contagion, but no interest shall be allowed to such Farmers in or for any quarter for such part of their demands as they have not paid within the quarter as they are obliged or as has not been allowed by Treasurer Southampton or ourselves. Ibid, pp. 45–6.
Feb. 27. Same to the Warden of the Fleet to release from custody for 14 days William Stockton, late a partner in the Excise with Robert Butts, late a Sub-Commissioner of Excise of co. Suffolk, said Butts not being able, without Stockton's assistance, to get in the arrears for which he [Butts] stands engaged to the King. Ibid, p. 46.
Mar. 2. The Treasury Lords to Sir Cuthbert Hearn, bart., William Fenwick and John Ridley, Justices of the Peace of Northumberland. Complaint has been made to us against several persons in co. Northumberland of their refractoriness to the Excise. We might justly have sent for them in custody, but think fit in the first place to use a more gentle remedy. We enclose the affidavits concerning them. Call the parties before you and endeavour to accommodate the matter with the officers and Farmers of Excise. Give us an account of what you do. (The like letter to Sir Nico. Cole, Justice of Peace for co. Durham. Out Letters (Customs) VI, pp. 46–7.
[?] Report from same to the King on the petition of Capt. Henry Brabant and his demands of abatements on his farm of the Excise of Northumberland, Durham, and Newcastle. We are ready to make him defalcations for his damages by the plague. But, as for defalcations by reason of the [Dutch] war neither he nor any other Excise Farmer has any covenant for such defalcation. And the case was general, the trade having had its stop by reason thereof in other parts as well as there. If it be granted him the other Farmers will expect the same. And though fewer ships went to Newcastle by reason of the war, yet they stayed longer there than otherwise they would have done, which was some recompense for the fewness of their number. And one Mr. Place has been before us and proffered that if Capt. Brabant will make up his accompt for this farm to him and let him have the product thereof, he will undertake to answer the full rent thereof to your Majesty without abatement, which the said Brabant refuses to do. As to the promises of abatements which he pretends from Treasurer Southampton, nothing thereof has been made appear before us. Ibid, p. 47.
Mar. 6. Entry of the declaration of the accompt of William Bucknall, Phillip Jemmet, William Dashwood, John Breedon, Griffith Owen and John Forth, Farmers of Excise of London, Westminster and Southwark, Middlesex and Surrey, except [South Mimms] as by indenture of lease dated 1665, June 24. Ibid, p. 49.
Charge.
l.
rent for 4½ months, 1665, June 24, to Nov. 8, at the rate of 118,000l. per an. l.44,250
Discharge.
paid upon 10 tallies struck upon them or upon the late Farmers of the Excise of London, Middlesex and Surrey 23,250
allowed as defalcation for losses by the plague in the City of London by the privy seal of 1665, Nov. 27, upon two tallies struck on them 1666, June 16.. 21,000
£44,250
Even and quit.
Mar. 7. Treasury warrant to the Solicitor General to prepare a bill [for the great seal] for a lease of the Excise of Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Buck (except the part of Newmarket which lies in Suffolk) to William Bucknall, Philipp Jemmett, Griffith Owen, Daniel Forth, William Dashwood, John Breedon, John Foorth and George Dashwood for three years from June 24 next at a rent of 54,780l. per an.: and likewise a lease of the Excise of all brandies, alias strong waters, mum, alias foreign beer, and all other Exciseable liquors whatsoever which shall be imported into England, Wales or Berwick (except London, Middlesex and Surrey) for the same term at the rent of 2,000l. per an. A clause to be inserted containing a grant to them of all foreign and Exciseable liquors which between Nov. 25 last and June 24 next shall be imported into England, Wales and Berwick, except London, Middlesex, and Surrey without any rent, they having already paid 1,250l. to his Majesty in consideration thereof. And the King is pleased to constitute them his receivers of all fines and forfeitures incurred during the term. The Farmers to advance a whole quarter's rent, viz., 13,695l. and 500l. beforehand, which is to be as caution for the better payment of the several rents and to remain in his Majesty's hands during said terms at 6 per cent. interest; said interest to be payable quarterly by way of deduction out of each quarter's rent and the principal [of such advance money] is to be detained out of the last half year's rent. The respective covenants on either hand (being 10, detailed, on the Farmers' part and 14, detailed, on the part of the King) are to be inserted as set out, viz.: on the Farmers' part: (2) to keep books of account and submit to audit; (3) to accompt yearly in the Exchequer for all fines, penalties and forfeitures, and to pay same into the Exchequer; (6) that they will pay to the Farmers of Excise of any other place into which they shall import any beer or ale, or for want of such farm then to the King, 2s. 6d. for every barrel made within the limits of the said five counties and sold out of those limits and will save the King harmless from all defalcations which may be demanded by any other Farmer by reason of such importation: which said covenant the King hereby declares that he will insert in all farms as a necessary provision to secure and indemnify each Farmer from such importunity as they may happen to make upon each other. (8) If any importations be made contrary to such covenants, the person aggrieved may prosecute in the King's name at his own charge. (9) If there be no such provision, as above, made or if the Excise of that place whence the importation is made be out of farm and in the King's hands, the King will permit them to detain as a defalcation the Excise of such imported beer, usual allowances being deducted; (10) If the Excise be raised by Act of Parliament they will submit to such proportionable increase of rent as the Treasury Lords shall think fit.
On the King's part he covenants (1) not to remit any of the fines and penalties incurred during the term. (2) The King's part of the fines shall be paid to the Farmers. (5) To permit the Farmers to retain as much of their rent as the fines paid by them into the Exchequer shall amount to as a recompense for the duty of Excise which is always lost where any fine or forfeiture is incurred. (6) If any of the five counties be visited with the plague or if the importation of brandies, etc., be prohibited or the exportation of beer and ale restrained, or if the Excise be lessened by Act of Parliament the Treasury Lords shall grant defalcation for same on application. (7) The Farmers may enter any ship to search for brandies and other foreign liquors imported and keep an officer on board to see the delivery and may have a convenient room in the Custom House to manage the farm, or any other room at his Majesty's charge where the King has no Custom House. (8) The advance money and interest thereon is to be satisfied out of some other revenue if the duties demised cease before the end of the lease. (10) The Farmers may take bond in the King's name for any of the said duties but the prosecution to be at their own charge. (11) Quiet enjoyment. Further, provision is to be made for the King's resumption of the farm if the rent be in arrear for three months and eight days, or if any covenant be broken. This lease to be void if not enrolled.
Mar. 7. Treasury warrant to the Solicitor General for a similar lease to William Bucknall, Philipp Jemmett, William Dashwood, John Brewdon, Griffith Owen, Geo. Dashwood, Daniel Foorth and John Foorth, of the Excise of London, Westminster, Southwark, Middlesex and Surrey (except South Mimms), for three years from June 24 next, in consideration of 35,000l. advance money and a rental of 140,000l. for the first 2½ years of the farm and 35,000l. for the last half year: the first payment to be made July 24 next: the King to pay 6 per cent. per an. interest half yearly at Christmas and Midsummer: the King to pay the fine of 900l. and 60l. per an. rent for the present Excise Office in Aldersgate Street and taxes and repairs thereof, "reserving to his dispose the rooms there which the Commissioners for Prizes now or lately held." The King not to remit any fines; the King's part thereof to be paid to the Farmers, who covenant to pay same into the Exchequer, they having defalcation of so much out of their rent in satisfaction of the loss of the single duty by reason of such fines. Defalcations for plague or abatement or determination of the duty or for prohibition of import or export of Exciseable liquors. Increase of rent if further duty be imposed. Power of searching ships. "The Farmers covenant that if any beer or ale brewed within their limits be exported into any other place and there spent and consumed they will pay so much more as the duty of Excise amounted unto at the place where the same was brewed to the Farmer of the county or place [into which same is] imported," deducting the usual allowance and to save the King harmless against all demands of defalcations by such Farmer. And the King covenants to insert a like clause in all Excise farms. And if the differences arising upon importations into this [London] farm cannot be settled by the Excise Commissioners, these [London] Farmers are to have the benefit of the covenant made with the King by the importer and to recover the duty at law. If there be no such covenant or the county be not in farm then the King will allow the Excise of such imported beer [as a defalcation]. Liberty for the King to appoint gaugers as in the present lease. The Farmers to keep books of entries and to deliver copies thereof as in the present lease. The Farmers are authorised by Treasury warrant to pay 500l. per an. each to the Excise Commissioners; 100l. per an. each to the Commissioners for Appeals in Excise; 40l. per an. to their messenger; 350l. per an. to the two Registers to the Excise Commissioners; 40l. each to the clerks and doorkeepers; 20l. per an. to their housekeepers; 150l. per an. to the Solicitor to the Excise Commissioners. Covenant for quiet enjoyment, etc., and provisoes for seizing the farm into the King's hand, etc., ut supra. Out Letters (Customs) VI, pp. 54–6.
Mar. 16. Treasury warrant to the [Excise Commissioners to make to the late] Farmers of Excise of Norfolk the allowance and defalcation of 160l. for one year to Michaelmas last for so much to be by said Farmers allowed to the adventurers and fishermen of Great Yarmouth for the Excise of beer for their North Sea and herring fisheries. Out Letters (Customs) VI, pp 56–7.
1668.
Mar. 26.		 Treasury allowance of the 1668, Mar. 25 quarter's salary bill, detailed, of the Excise Office. (Total, 696l. 6s. 3d.) Ibid, p. 58.
April 2. Treasury warrant to the Excise Commissioners to remit and abate 100l. to Thomas Needham of Dutton, co. Chester, late Farmer of Excise of co. Chester, there having been formerly a direction or verbal order by the late Treasurer Southampton for said allowance on account of Needham's losses therein by the late pestilential fever there. Said sum is to be in part of said Farmer's arrear for 1665, Sept. 29 quarter. Ibid, p. 59.
April 13. Same to same to allow to the Farmers of Excise for co. Wilts, 751l. 6s. 8d., and so to remit their debt of 1,251l. 6s. 8d. on their payment of 500l. into the Excise Office: said allowance to be in regard of their losses by the late plague there. Ibid, p. 61.
April 21. Same to the Farmers of the Excise [of imported liquors] to permit Thomas Wade, Nicholas Thurman and John Furley, merchants of London, on payment of 4d. per gallon duty, to land brandies respectively belonging to them and now in the river on board the Grey Horse, Allen Archer master, the Freindship, John Wilbron master, the Elizabeth, Thomas Graunt master; there being at present a dispute between the Farmers of Excise and the merchants about this and the like commodity whether 4d. or 8d. per gallon is due for the Excise thereof, "and a petition having bin tendred to the House of Commons about this matter and now there depending." The said merchants are to give security for the other 4d. per gallon in case the Parliament or any court of justice shall adjudge the same to be due. Ibid, pp. 59–60.
The like warrant for brandy belonging to John Hobbs of London, merchant, and now in the Thames on board the Two Brothers of London. John Huggins master. Ibid, p. 60.
April 23. The like warrant for brandies belonging to Samuel Atkins, George Toriano and Peter Paravizere, Samuel Swinock, Abraham Jaggard and William Carbonell of London, merchants, and respectively now in the Thames on board the Hunter, Caleb Cock master, the Civita Veach, the Blue Dove, the Paradise, the Gray Horse, the Swallow, and the Judith. Ibid, pp. 61–2.
April 23. The like warrant for brandy belonging to Joseph Denham of London, merchant, and now in the Thames on board the Dispatch, William Cooper master. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 62.
April 24. The like warrant for brandies belonging to Arnold [Beake] and Samuel Beake and Lucas Santon, of London, merchants, and now in the Thames on board the James of Dover, Richard Street master; and on the Paradise of London, John Day master. Ibid.
April 27. The like warrant for same belonging to David Conguard and David Lepriell, merchants, and now in the Thames on board the David of Ipswich, David Belliard master, from Nantes and on the Friendship of London, Anthony Bryant master. Ibid, p. 63.
May 7. The like warrant for same belonging to William Coles, William Batailhe and George Robins of London, merchants, and now in the Thames on board the Encrease, Philip Wago master, from Charante, the King David, John Plouer master, the William and Sarah, Nicholas Fairecloth [master] from Bordeaux, the Casimire,_Peter master, from Bayonne, the Burdeaux Merchant, John Paine master, from Charante, the Eagle, Edwd. Cocher master, and the Unity, _ Mason master, from Bordeaux. Ibid.
The like warrant for same belonging to Claud Hays, merchant, and now in the Thames on board the Prosperity of London, John Bennland master. Ibid, p. 64.
The Treasury Lords to Mr. Ashmole, Comptroller of Excise, to examine and report on the accounts of Sir Samuel Starling, et al., Farmers of Excise of co. Norfolk, for the year 1666, Sept. 29, to 1667, Sept. 29. Ibid.
May 14. Same to the Lord Keeper. A caveat has been entered at the Great Seal [Office] by Mr. Wyndsor Finch against a lease, now depending there, of the Excise of co. Norfolk and other counties, till he be heard on his pretences to a lease of the imported liquors within that farm and elsewhere. We have this day heard him and find no reason why the lease should be any longer hindered [by said Finch's pretensions] from passing. Ibid.
May 19. Same to the Auditor of the Receipt to register in course [on the Country Excise] the following sums as agreed upon for the Royal Household, Guards and Tangier. Ibid, p. 65.
Prefixing: memorial dated May 15 [to the Treasury Lords] from William Ashburnham, Sa. Pepys and Sir Stephen Fox. We have agreed upon the following method to be that wherein we, by mutual consent, pray you to direct the registering of what sums of money shall be hereafter payable to the three branches of his Majesty's expenses, the Guards, Royal Household and Tangier, out of the Country Excise, viz.:
l. s. d.
Household 19,000 0 0
Guards 10,000 0 0
Tangier 16,000 0 0
Garrisons 13,000 0 0
Guards 10,000 0 0
Tangier 16,000 0 0
Garrisons 13,000 0 0
Guards 13,567 7 0
Tangier 16,500 0 0
Garrisons 15,633 15 4
May 22. Entry of the declaration of account of the first farm of the London Excise, viz. of Sir John Robinson, kt. and bart., Francis Sone, John Rives, Richard Westcombe and John Woder, gent., from 1662, Nov. 8, to 1665, June 24, as late Farmers of Excise of London, Westminster, Middlesex and Surrey. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 66.
l. s. d.
Total charge and receipts 309,882 15 6
Total payments and allowances 309,832 7 9
Remains £49 7 9
which was paid into the Exchequer 1666–7, Jan. 11, and so accomptants are even and quit.
Prefixing: William Coventry [a Treasury Lord] to Lord Ashley, dated 1668, May 22, sent by Col. Birch. The [Treasury] Commissioners desire you to sign this account first [before it be declared] because the only scruple which we find in it is that the fines are not according to the rules of the [Excise] Act, but [are] by mitigation, for which the Farmers affirm they had your and the Lord Treasurer's [Southampton's] allowance: and so the [Excise] Auditor [Birch] also says, but by word of mouth, to which we are not privy. After you have signed the other [Treasury] Commissioners will sign the declaratur.
The Treasury Lords to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. Auditor Birch is ready to proceed with your account of the Excise, but cannot for want of an account of your incidents. Send us a particular of them. Ibid, p. 67.
May 25. Same to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer] to suspend process against William Byam, late sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset, and against Sir Edward Wingfield, kt., and Joseph Garret his securities, as the said Byam has now paid 200l. into the receipt of the Excise in part of his arrear. Ibid.
May 26. Same to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. Call upon Sir John Talbot and the rest of the Farmers of the Country Excise (of the farm from June 24 next) for a list of their securities and report to us thereon. Ibid.
June 3. Sir George Downing to same to report on the petition of John Beaumont, surety to Major Lester, a sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset, shewing that said Leicester lost a considerable estate in his Majesty's service and there remains due to him [Leicester] 200l. and upwards, which the Grand Commissioners of Excise could not allow without the Lord Treasurer's [Southampton's] warrant "who could not consent thereto, the other Commissioners had passed their accounts which is now done, but that we should not be molested, notwith-standing which extents have issued out against them." Prays to have their bonds delivered up.' Ibid, p. 68.
June 5. Same to same to report on the petition of John Willoughby, late Farmer of Excise in co. Northampton, shewing that the plague being much there the Excise was lessened [and praying some defalcation for same]. Ibid.
June 9. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. By a representation from you of Sept. 24 last, which was allowed by us, concerning the payment in course of all tallies struck on you [on the Excise] it appears that the Guards and Tangier are to have 5,000l. successively paid to them. Sir Stephen Fox informs us that this has been exactly observed and that all his tallies are now paid off, and that there yet remains unpaid at least 60,000l. of [tallies] struck for the paymaster of Tangier, for which he [Pepys] has orders for near that sum out of the Exchequer. You are hereby to continue all payments in your Office according as you have done hitherto, and as often as Sir Stephen Fox shall be in course to receive for the Guards and Pendennis [you are] to pay that proportion into the Exchequer for him [for him] to receive the same upon his order. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 69.
June 11. Same to Elias Ashmole, Comptroller of Excise within the head Office of Excise, London. By your patent you are to keep a control upon the whole charge of the said Office. You are hereby to take into your charge the management and keeping of the whole accounts of the said Office and to perform the place formerly executed by Mr. Dugdale, Accomptant General within the said Office, and by Mr. Collins, the Country [Excise] accomptant. From time to time you are to give an accompt of your proceedings therein to the Excise Commissioners and to us when required. Ibid.
June 16. The Treasury Lords to the Grand Commissioners of Excise. John Heron, gent., lately contracted with us for a lease of the Excise of Cornwall for three years from June 24 inst., in the name of Ralph Keate, who is the present lessee thereof for the present farm of three years ending June 24 inst. The said Keate has certified us that he has assigned all his interest in the new lease to said Heron. Prepare the lease in Heron's name. Ibid, p. 70.
Same to same to pass the lease of the Excise of Cornwall to the abovesaid Heron "upon his advance of the last quarter of his farm commencing the 24 June" inst.: in regard the present farmer [Keate] was not obliged to pay a quarter's advance as others [Farmers of the Excise of other counties] but had time granted him by the late Treasurer Southampton till the end of the present quarter to pay the rent of the said quarter. Ibid, pp. 70–1.
Prefixing. said John Heron's petition shewing that the increase of rent laid on the [Excise farm of] said county by the persons appointed to apportion the same was so great as to discourage Keate. who thereupon refused to make good the contract which Heron had made in his name and has resigned same to petitioner.
Sir George Downing to the [new] Excise Commissioners in Aldersgate Street, forwarding a return of the securities of the new Farmers of the Country Excise from June 24 next [inst.] as certified by Sir Henry Ashburnham, et al. [present] Grand Commissioners of Excise. You will find that the Treasury Lords have marked some to be left out, and for the rest you are to well consider them all and report where you find any reason of exception. Where the Farmers are Parliament men or persons who upon any other account do claim privilege you are to take care that some of their securities at least be such as have no claim to privilege. Ibid, p. 71.
June 16. The Treasury Lords to Mr. Collins. Deliver to Mr. Ashmole the books and writings in your possession relating to your office of accomptant of the [Country] Excise. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 72.
June 17. Treasury approval of the following persons as sub-Commissioners of Excise for Norfolk, Suffolk, Kent, Essex, Middlesex and Surrey. You [the Grand Commissioners of Excise] are hereby to grant them commissions accordingly: viz. William Perry, William Juniper, Thomas Cockett, William Willson, John Clements, Richard Bucknell, Augustin Curtis, Nicholas Preston, Anthony Earnley, Charles Johnson, Tho. Collet, Richard Chepstow, Robert Wynter, Thomas Owen, Stephen Hildesley and Edward Parsons. Ibid.
Treasury warrant to Sir Denny Ashburnham, et al., present Grand Commissioners of Excise, to delivor by indenture to Col. John Birch all such books, papers and writings relating to your proceeding in the management of the Excise and which are in the custody of you or your officers. Ibid.
June 19
et postea.		 Treasury approval of a memorial from the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise dated from the [New] Excise Office, Aldersgate Street, June 18. In pursuance of the privy seal of the 6th inst., we have treated and agreed with Thomas Story and John Millicent for the farm of Excise of co. Cambridge and Isle of Ely for three years from June 24 next [inst.] at the rent of 4,880l. per an. payable quarterly, they to advance a quarter's rent for which they are to have 6 per cent. interest. They propound as securities Sir Anthony Chester, of Chicheley, co. Bucks, Edward Story, of Baynards Inn, London, gent., which we consider as good for the rent. It appears from the certificate of Sir Denny Ashburnham and the other [present Grand] Commissioners of Excise that said T. Story and J. Millicent have cleared all their rent on their farm of Excise of the said county ending at Mid-summer next [inst.] The sub-Commissioners propounded to be employed within the said county are John Hunt of Cambridge, gent., Robert Merriall of Cambridge, gent., and William Battell of Newton, co. Cambridge, gent. Ibid, pp. 73–4.
The like approval of a memorial dated June 18 from the [new] Grand Commissioners of Excise. We have agreed with George Skippe, esq., for the farm of the Excise of Somerset for three years from June 24 next [inst.] at 5,400l. per an. rent, payable quarterly, one quarter's rent to be paid in advance, for which advance he is to have 6 per cent. interest. As sureties he proposes John Skippe of Ledbury, co. Hereford, Saml. Bedford of Henlow, co. Beds, and William Whitfeild of Beaksbourne, co. Kent. Sir Denny Ashburnham and the rest of the [late] Grand Commissioners of Excise certify that Skippe has cleared his rent on his farm of said county, ending June 24 next [inst.] and has likewise paid to the Cashier of the Excise his quarter's advance on the new farm. The sub-Commissioners proposed to be employed within the said county are William Bennett of Taunton, co. Somerset, gent., Tho. Bennet of the same place, and Richard Skippe of Ledbury, co. Hereford. Ibid, p. 74.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval of the like memorial reporting a similar new farm contract for the Excise of co. Yorks by Francis Weathered and Henry Guy at 20,750l. per an. rent; a quarter's rent in advance at 6 per cent. interest; proposed sureties, Richard Lloyd of Brotherton, co. Yorks, Arnold Beake of London, merchant, John Billingsley of St. Nicholas Lane, London, vintner, and John Sibley of Westminster, scrivener; said Weathered and Guy are certified as above as having cleared their rent on their present farm to June 24 next [inst.]; the sub-Commissioners proposed are Nicholas Bowker, Anthony Robins, Robert Gravely, Thomas Chadwicke and Rowland Wattson, all of the city of York, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 75.
The like approval of the like memorial reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of co. Cornwall by Abraham Anselme and John Perry at 2,650l. per an. rent; a quarter's rent in advance at 6 per cent. interest; sureties proposed, Edward Franck of London, linendraper, and Ralph Markland of London, brewer; they have paid their quarter's advance "to the Cashier of this Office"; sub-Commissioners proposed, John Cheny and William James, both of London, gent. Ibid, p. 76.
The like approval of the like memorial reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Huntingdon by Lyonell Walden, esq., at 1,450l. per an. rent; advance, etc. ut supra; securities proposed, Thomas Colson of St. Ives, co. Huntingdon, and Richard Willes of Huntingdon; he has cleared his rent on his present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his advance quarter; sub-Commissioners proposed, William Pye of Ramsey, co. Huntingdon, gent., William Davies of Huntingdon, gent, Philip Castle of Huntingdon, gent. Ibid, p. 77.
The like approval of the like memorial reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of Cumberland, Westmorland, Northumberland, Durham, Newcastle and Berwick by Thomas Calvard, gent.; at the rent of 7,420l. per an.; advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Samuell Vincent of St. Edmunds Bury, co. Suffolk, gent., and Peter Calvard of Hertford, co. Herts, gent.; he has paid the quarter's advance; sub-Commissioners proposed, Samuell Hall, Sebastian Lyford, Abraham Charter and John Barham, gent. Ibid, p. 78.
The like approval of the like memorial reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of the district of North Wales by Abraham Anselme and John Perry; at the rent of 2,200l. per an.; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Robert Markland of London, innholder, and Simon Gold of London, fishmonger; it is certified that Roger Whitley, the present Farmer of said district, has cleared his rent on the present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and Anselme and Perry have paid their quarter's advance; sub-Commissioners proposed, Edward Buckley, Edward Gill and Thomas Adams, all of London, gent. Ibid, p. 79.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval dated June 23 of the like memorial reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of South Wales by Timothy Colles and Richard Gwynn at the rent of 3,900l. per an.; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Geo. Dashwood of London, gent., and William Perry of Thorpe, co. Surrey; said Colles and Gwynn have cleared their rent for their farm of said district to June 24 next [inst.]; sub-Commissioners proposed, Edward Buckley, Edward Gill and Thomas Adams of London, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 80.
The like approval dated June 23 of the like memorial dated June 22 reporting a contract for the farm of Excise of co. Southampton and Isle of Wight by Benedict Thistlethwayt and William Warner, gent., at 3,900l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Peregrine Thistlethwaite of Tottenham Park, co. Wilts, esq., Philip Calvey of Kensington, co. Middlesex, merchant, and John Rives of Drayton, co. Southampton; said Farmers have paid their advance quarter; sub-Commissioners proposed, Richard Stansby of Winchester, esq., John Thistlethwaite of Winterslow, co. Wilts, and John Wells of New Sarum, co. Wilts. Ibid, p. 81.
The like approval of the like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Lancaster by Peeres Leigh and Henry Houghton, esqrs., at the rent of 4,950l. per an.; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, William Bancks of Winstanley, co. Lancs., and John Tatlock of Cunscough, co. Lancs.; said Farmers have cleared their rent on their present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid their quarter's advance on their new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Ralph Egerton of Barton, co. Lancs, Arthur Barron of Warrington, co. Lancs. and Samuell Andrewes of Ormskirk, co. Lancs., gent. Ibid, p. 82.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 20, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Wilts, by Edmund Warcup esq., at 3,700l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed Anthony Wisse of Thornbury, co. Gloucester, gent., William Smyth of Dursley, co. Gloucester, gent., Nicholas Veele and Thomas Veele of Packenhill, co. Gloucester, esqrs., William Warner of Packenhill, gent., and Thomas Blunt, clerk, of the Six Clerks Office; said Warcup has cleared his rent on his present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid the advance quarter on the new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Joseph Litlewood of London, gent., John Cooke of Alveston, co. Gloucester, gent., Edward Phips of Dorchester, gent. Ibid, p. 86.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of Bristol and Gloucester by Edmund Chamberlaine, esq., at 8,800l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, William Dutton of Sherborne, co. Gloucester, esq., John Chamberlain of Maugersbury, in the parish of Stow on the [W]old, co. Gloucester, gent., son and heir of said Farmer and Edmund Chamberlaine, citizen and silkman of London; said Farmer has cleared his rent upon his present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his quarter's advance on the new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed. James Pitts of Bristol, Edward Warren of Brockworth, co. Gloucester, and Charles Townsend of Stow on the Wold, gent. Ibid, p. 87.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Bedford by Francis Crawley, esq., at 1,870l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Felix Calverd of Furneaux Pelham, Herts, and Robert Walley of Stepney, Middlesex, brewer; said Farmer has cleared his rent on his present farm to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his quarter's advance; sub-Commissioners proposed, John Gill and George Benn, both of Barplim, co. Herts, and Henry Orsby of Bedford, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 88.
The like approval dated June 23 of like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of co. Northampton by John Willoughby, esq., at 3, 600l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Alexander Ekins of Weston Favell, co. Northants, Nich. Northington of Weldon, co. Northants, gent., Henry Shaife of Pilkington, co. Northants, gent.; said Farmer has cleared the rent on his farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his quarter's advance on his new farm. Ibid, p. 89.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22 of a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Derby by John Huntingford, esq., at 3,000l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Thomas Hill of Leadenhall Street, linendraper, and Nicholas Huntingford of co. Derby, gent.; said Farmer has cleared the rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his advance quarter on his new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, James Hill of Micklow, co. Derby, gent., Nicholas Huntingford and Thomas Huntingford, both of Chesterfield, co. Derby. Ibid, p. 90.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22 reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Oxford, by Sir Thomas Penyston, bart. and Robert Knowles, esq., at 4,700l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Sir Litleton Osboldstone of co. Oxford, bart. and George Sheldon of Westrete [?Westrip], co. Gloucester; said Farmers have cleared the rent of their farm of co. Oxford to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid the quarter's advance on their new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Thomas Pennystone of Grays Inn, co. Middlesex, and Thomas Lodge of Chipping Norton, co. Oxford. Ibid, p. 91.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Sussex by Timothy Colles, esq., at 4,180l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Thomas Betton of London, Turkey merchant, Anthony Rowden of Rowden, co. Hereford, and Thomas Eaton of Pencombe, co. Hereford; said Farmer has cleared the rent of his farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid the advance quarter on his new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Thomas Eaton of Pencombe, co. Hereford, gent., Robert Cock of Dymock, co. Gloucester, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 92.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Warwick by William Purefoy at 3,400l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; sureties proposed, Sir Arthur Cayley of Newland, in the city and county of Coventry, kt., and Arthur Ingram of Thorpe, co. Yorks, esq.; said Farmer has cleared his rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his advance quarter on the new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, William Strong and Thomas Webb, both of the city of Coventry, gent., and Richard Caley of Exhall, co. Coventry. Ibid, p. 93.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Berks by John Peacock and William Oakes, esqs., at 3,200l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Richard Johnson of Reading, Berks, alderman, Abrm. Dee of Reading, alderman, Thomas Coates of Reading, alderman, and Nathaniell Harrison of Clewer, co. Berks, esq.; said Farmers have cleared their rent of their present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid the advance quarter on this new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed Noah Sterling of Reading, Henry Washington of Windsor, and Thomas Leighton of London, gent. Ibid, p. 94.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 22, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Hereford, by Edward Cornwall, esq., at 1,870l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; sureties proposed, Roger Vaughan of Bredwardine, co. Hereford, esq. and Herbert Awberry, jun., of Clehonger, co. Gloucester, esq.; said Farmer has cleared his rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next and has paid the quarter's advance on the new farm of same; sub-Commissioners proposed, Thomas French of Munckhall, co. Hereford, John Pitt of Hereford, esq. and John Davies of Hereford, gent. Ibid, p. 95.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 19, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Salop by Sir Richard Ottley, kt., and Richard Scriven, esq., at 3,100l. per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Edmond Peires of Willcott, co. Salop, Peter Leigh of Perrill, co. Salop, esq., and William Finch of Worcester city, gent.; said Farmers have cleared their rent on their present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid the quarter's advance on their new farm of same; sub-Commissioners proposed, Edmond Hoyd of Worcester city, gent., Thomas Leighton of Shrewsbury, co. Salop, and Thomas Jeb of Wem, co. Salop, gent. Ibid, p. 96.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of Cheshire by Thomas Needham at 3,100l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Francis Hollingshead of Bosley, co. Cheshire, esq., William Challoner of Cheadle, co. Stafford, esq. and Tho. Jenkins of Oakamoor in the said county; said Farmer has cleared the rent on his farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid his advance quarter on this new farm; sub-Commissioners appointed [propounded], John Brock of the city of Chester, gent., William Aderley of Cheadle, co. Stafford, gent., and Richard Heath of Launde, co. Stafford, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 98.
The like approval dated July 3 of a like memorial dated June 19, reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of co. Herts by Edward Watts and John Gape at 5,300l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, Robert New, of St. Albans, co. Herts, alderman, Thomas Humble of London, milliner, and Edward Crosby of St. Albans, esq.; said Farmers, have cleared the rent on their present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid the advance quarter on their new farm thereof; sub-Commissioners proposed, Thomas Rotherman, William Rugge, Devereux Pember, all of St. Albans, Herts, gent. Ibid, p. 99.
The like approval dated July 3 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of co. Worcester, by Sir John Talbott, kt., and Martin Sands, esq., at 3,300l., per an. rent; advance quarter and interest ut supra; sureties proposed, Anthony Santage of Snowshill, co. Gloucester, esq., Kemp Harward of Hunnington, co. Worcester, gent., Anthony Crump of Bretforton, co. Worcester, gent.; said Farmers have cleared the rent of their farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid the quarter's advance on this new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Thomas Seabry of Tenbury, co. Worcester, gent., John Crump of the city of Worcester, gent., and Kemp Harward of Huntington, in co. Worcester. Ibid, p. 100.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 20, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Dorset by Edmond Warcup, esq., at 3,000l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest ut supra; securities proposed, John Tissard of Chandois Street in Covent Garden, attorney, Philip Dormy of Vly, co. Dorset, gent., Matthew Coppinger of Dorchester, co. Dorset, gent., and Henry Baskervile of Bristol, attorney; said Farmer has paid the quarter's advances on said farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, _ Moore, Thomas Sorrell and Edward Phipps, all of Dorchester, co. Dorset, gent. Ibid, p. 101.
June 19
et postea.		 The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Devon by Sir James Smyth, kt., at 11,500l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest, ut supra; securities proposed, John Hutchinson and William Glyde, both of Exeter, co. Devon; said Farmer has cleared his rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid a quarter's advance on the rent of this new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, John Reade, John Harecourt and John Whiddon, all of Exeter, co. Devon. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 103.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of co. Stafford, by Randolph Egerton, at 3,200l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest, ut supra; securities proposed, Sir Thomas Whitgrove of Bridgeford, co. Stafford, Christopher Collier of Eardley, co. Stafford, gent., John Harrington of Kimton, co. Stafford, gent., and Henry Hill of the city of Worcester, gent.; said Farmer has cleared all his rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next [inst.] and has paid to the Cashier of the Excise Office the quarter's advance of rent on his new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed for said county, Henry Hill of the city of Worcester, gent., Ralph Hill of Ombersley, co. Worcester, gent., and Francis Mosse of Stafford, co. Stafford, gent. Ibid, p. 104.
The like approval dated June 23 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of the Excise of cos. Leicester and Rutland by John Ardon (Arden) and John Ramsey, gent., at 4,000l. per an. rent; quarter's advance and interest, ut supra; securities proposed, Richard Adderley of Cotton, co. Stafford, esq., Edward Lee of Norwell, co. Notts, esq., and Thomas Pindar of Chesterfield, co. Derby; said Farmers have cleared all their rent of their present farm of said counties to June 24 next [inst.] and have paid their quarter's advance on their new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed to be employed within said county, John Aderley of Derby, co. Derby, gent., Reginald Pindar of Breadsall, co. Derby, gent., and Richard Sale of Barrow upon Trent, co. Derby, gent. Ibid, p. 105.
The like approval dated July 16 of a like memorial dated June 23, reporting a similar contract for the farm of Excise of co. Lincoln, by Thomas Willoughby and Edward Atkinson at the rent of 7,600l. per an.; quarter's advance and interest, ut supra; securities proposed, William Battee of Barkland, co. Lincoln, esq., Edward Coply of Batly, co. Lincoln, esq., and Edward Atkinson, junr., of Grays Inn, co. Middlesex, gent.; said Willoughby has cleared all the rent on his present farm of said county to June 24 next [1668] and has likewise paid the quarter's advance on his new farm; sub-Commissioners proposed, Richard Hazell, Robert Marsh, and Walter Burthen, gent. Ibid, pp. 106–7.
June 19. The Treasury Lords to the Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street. The three rooms lately made use of by Mr. Rumball being three stories high are appointed for Col. Birch [the Auditor of Excise] and his clerks with their closets belonging to the said rooms, and which are to be for keeping the books and papers brought from the late Excise Office in Southampton Buildings. Ibid, pp. 73, 83.
June 20. The Treasury Lords to Mr. Dugdale. For saving expense we have appointed Mr. Ashmole (the Comptroller of Excise) to do the duty of the Accomptant General of Excise from the 24th inst. Let him have a sight of your books and deliver to him such as you can spare without prejudice to yourself. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 70.
June 22. Treasury allowance of the 1668, June 24 quarter's salary bill, detailed, of the Excise Office. (Total, 696l. 6s. 3d.) Ibid, pp. 83–4.
June 23. Treasury warrant to the [Old] Grand Commissioners of Excise at Southampton Buildings to pay an extra half year's rent to Serjeant Stevens and Mr. James Smyth, they being willing to acquit a former agreement made for the houses which have been used for the Excise Office in Southampton New Buildings, and to take them into their own dispose. You are to suffer them to have all the wainscot (Wayon Scott) affixed in the rooms and all locks, bolts and latches belonging to the doors of the said houses. Ibid, p. 84.
The Treasury Lords to the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street. The name of Robert Knollys ought to be in the lease of the Excise of co. Oxford, commencing the 24th inst., together with Sir Thomas Pennyston. Insert same accordingly. Ibid, p. 85.
Prefixing: petition from said Knollys, shewing that he is equally concerned in said the present [expiring] lease with said Peniston (as his father was in the former) and that he has joined in raising the advance money for the new lease and his name is left out by mistake and without the knowledge of said Peniston.
Same to the Farmers of the London Excise. Several suits are commenced against the [Old] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Southampton Buildings by several of the Country Excise Farmers for beer exported out of the limits of their [respective] farms. Take care to defend the said suits according to your agreement with us, you having received money upon this account from us. Ibid.
Treasury warrant to the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street. It appears from your certificate that several of the New Farmers of the Country Excise have not perfected the paying in of their rent due the 24th inst. [on their old farm] and their advance quarter [on their new farm] and that some of them have yet paid in no part thereof. In order that the Excise revenue may suffer no prejudice thereby we desire you not to stop the issue of commissions for their respective sub-Commissioners; but you are to detain in your hands their leases and to forbear the signing of them until they have fully paid in their said rent and advance quarter. If by Thursday week they have completed payment then you are to seal and deliver their leases. Otherwise, certify us on that day who fail to do so, to the end we may give further order for the disposing of those farms. Ibid, p. 113.
June 23. The Treasury Lords to the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street to insert the name of William Stanhope with that of Anthony Eyre (Eyres) in the new lease of the Excise of co. Notts. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 114.
Prefixing: certificate dated June 19 from the [Old] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Southampton Buildings, that said Stanhope and Eyres have balanced their accounts and cleared their rent on the Excise farm of said county which determines at June 24 inst.
June 26. Sir George Downing to the late Grand Commissioners of Excise [at Southampton Buildings]. The Treasury Lords desire you to re-consider your report concerning Mr. Skip and to report, according to the rule formerly given you, whether he was a gainer or looser upon his whole farm for that time. Ibid, pp. 114–5.
Prefixing: note of said previous report advising an allowance of 500l. [to said Skip] as a reasonable abatement on account of the plague according to [oath thereof made by] Devereux Pember, an officer employed under said Skip in the farm of the Excise of co. Huntington [erased, and co. Southampton inserted].
July 3. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer] to stay process against Henry Lester and his surety as a late sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset for moneys yet unsatisfied to the King by the said sub-Commissioners; the Treasury Lords being informed by the late Grand Commissioners of Excise that said Henry Lester and Capt. John Beaumont are persons wholly unable at this time to satisfy the arrears of Excise charged on them. Ibid, p. 115.
Treasury constitution of John Lawrence, gent., as solicitor of the revenue of Excise and to solicit and prosecute all suits in law or equity and other businesses relating to the Excise which are to be transacted in the Exchequer Court or elsewhere as well concerning the arrears of Excise already incurred as what shall hereafter incur; all according to directions to be given by the Treasury Lords or the Excise Commissioners. (Followed by: separate Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to pay said Lawrence a salary of 150l. per an.; quarterly; the first payment to be at Michaelmas next.) Ibid, p. 97.
The Treasury Lords to the Justices of Peace in North Wales. The Farmers of Excise of North Wales complain that the officers have been abused by the innkeepers and victuallers there and that they have applied to you for redress thereof but can get no effectual remedy. We desire you to give them all countenance and assistance by putting the law in execution and to afford fitting protection to their officers so that his Majesty's service be no further prejudiced by your remissness. Ibid, p. 109.
July 6. Same to Mr. Champante to deliver to the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street, by indenture, all bonds in your custody relating to the Excise, sending us a list thereof. Ibid, p. 102.
July 10. Treasury warrant to the Excise Commissioners to remit to John Place, who was added to the sub-Commissioners of Excise for the North and East Ridings of Yorkshire, the sum of 53l., he having already paid 47l. towards the arrear of one Col. Gill, of the said sub-Commissioners, who died insolvent and indebted 100l. to the King, the late Excise Commissioners having attempted to fix the whole of said debt on said Place, he having given security which the rest of the co-sub-Commissioners did not do. The bonds of said Place and of his surety are to be delivered up. Ibid.
[July 16.] Money warrant for 527l. 6s. 1d. to the Paymaster of the Works, ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. II, p. 598. Out Letters (Customs) VI pp. 115–6.
July 23
and
Aug. 3.		 Treasury warrant to the [New] Grand Commissioners of Excise in Aldersgate Street. In pursuance of the privy seal of 1668, May 18, we directed you by our warrant of July 9 last to pay 750l. to the Duke of York out of such moneys as should be saved by reduction of officers employed in the receipt of the Excise before Midsummer last. In order thereto you are hereby to pay into the Exchequer all such moneys as are now in your hands of such saving by such reduction. (Entry struck through and replaced on Aug. 3 by an amended warrant in which said 750l. for the Duke is stated to be for last Christmas quarter on his pension of 3,000l. as by the said privy seal of 1668, May 18; and it now appearing that there will be saved 3,295l. 4s. 8d. per an. by such reduction in the Excise as above, it is hereby ordered that in order to the due and effectual payment of said pension said 750l. is to be paid into the Exchequer "out of any money now remaining in your [Excise] receipt.") Ibid, p. 116.
July 23. The Treasury Lords to Mr. Isackson, Receiver of the duties on logwood, to forthwith pay to the Excise Commissioners all sums received by you and now in your hands or which you shall hereafter receive for Lady Stewkley's proportion of the clear profits of the farm of logwood until the arrears of Excise as follows be fully satisfied: all by reason that Hugh Stewkley, late sub-Commissioner of Excise in co. Somerset, stands charged with an arrear of 78l. 18s. 1d. upon his accompt for 1661, Lady day, and Roger Stewkley, late same in co. Devon, stands charged with an arrear of 266l. 19s. 1d. on his accompt for 1662, Sept. 29 quarter, for the security of both which sums Sir Thomas Stewkley, kt., deceased, became bound to the King in several bonds of great penalties; and [the said Sir Thomas's widow] Lady Stewkley has an equitable interest in part of the profits of the logwood farm which was granted 1662, Sept. 23, to John Pincomb, gent., in trust for the said Sir Thomas Stewkley and others; the said Lady Stewkley having consented that said arrears of Excise should be liquidated as above, provided that process against the other estate of the said Sir Thomas Stewkley be stayed, which is hereby ordered. Ibid, p. 107.
July 31. Sir George Downing to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to pay the following tallies in course as here ranged, viz.: Ibid, p 108.
l.
to [the Paymaster of] Tangier [garrison] 7,500
to the Cofferer of the Household 5,000
to the Duke of Monmouth 1,500
making up the 14,000l. which is in [the Excise] Office.
Aug. 2. Treasury warrant to Francis Stevens, serjeant at arms attending the Treasury Lords, to arrest Mathew Plowman, late a sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset, who is complained of by Mathew Coppinger for receiving arrears of Excise of the said county after he was out of Commission, for [the collection of] which [arrears] said Coppinger had contracted with the late Grand Commissioners of Excise: which said complaint being referred to the said Grand Commissioners they reported that said Plowman exhibited to them a schedule of arrears of Excise in said county, amounting to 492l. 2s. 6d., which he can by no means make good and justify, and that after the delivery of said schedule and the disposal [of said arrears to said Coppinger] by contract for the King's service the said Plowman without warrant collected such of them as he could and keeps same to his own use without rendering account thereof. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 110.
Aug. 14. The Treasury Lords to Cadwallader Jones. In a representation of your case as surety of William Harris, late Collector of Hearthmoney for co. Devon, who is in arrear a great sum to the King for which your estate is sequestered, you seem to charge the great default upon the said Collector's deputies, who detain both their accounts and the money due thereon. You therefore desire us to empower you to inspect what has been received by the said Collector and his deputies. We hereby so authorise you to go to Devon and to inspect the receipts of said Collector or his deputies. Return us an account in whose hands the moneys remain. We will see that assistance is given you for recovery of the same from such persons. Ibid, pp. 108–9.
Aug. 27. Same to the Mayor, &c., of Worcester. We have received several complaints from the Farmers of Excise of co. Worcester against some brewers of your city. As these belong more immediately to your cognisance, upon whose prudence and justice the support of the revenue in great measure depends, we thought not fit further to interpose, although the Farmers have applied to you several times without remedy. But we esteem it considerable to the King's service that when any difficulty occurs to you in the practice or exposition of the Excise Acts, you represent the same to us or advise with the King's Counsel that so you may not pre-engage yourself nor prepossess the country with any opinion contrary to the King's interest and the true meaning of the Excise Acts. For the present we think fit to state the following particulars which are like to be most frequent before you. (1) That upon any information against any brewer for any default the gaugers are not only sufficient but the most proper witnesses for the King and especially in those things where they depose as gaugers, for their return is such a charge upon a brewer both for quantity and quality as is in all particulars binding and not to be varied from, and the Justices of the Peace ought in all cases where forfeitures are imposed by the Excise Act to give judgment upon the gauger's evidence: as particularly 13 Car. II. p. 257: the brewers ought not to make any mixture of drink after an accompt has been taken by the gauger, except in his presence or on notice given him. If they do they incur a positive forfeiture by the Act. (2) And (12 Car. II. p. 35) if the brewer make not his entry that week wherein he has brewed he incurs a penalty for default, and if his entry be not certified according to the return of the gauger within one week after the delivery of the copy of the said return to agree with the gauger's return he also incurs another penalty by the Act, and no subsequent entries nor payment of the duty excuses from any of the forfeitures. (3) The gaugers may go into any brewhouse at any time by day without a constable (Ibid, p. 36, 37) and by night with a constable, and any refusal, or excuse equivalent to a refusal, is punishable and no entry or payment after such refusal exempts from the forfeiture of _ for every barrel which he hides from the gauger. And in these cases it will become the Farmer and his officer to be very watchful and your countenance to them will be very requisite. (4) all fines levied by you upon complaint for matter concerning Excise must be paid immediately to the Farmer as prosecutor (Ibid, p. 44) and on the King's behalf (except such part as is by law proportioned to the poor) and he and not you is the proper accomptant to the King. Neither is it in your power in the case of forfeitures to omit judgment according to the letter of the Act, nor is anything of equity in your power otherwise than to mitigate some fines in which the Act gives particular directions. Ibid, pp. 117–8.
These things we recommend to your particular care and that you inform yourselves thoroughly of the Excise Acts so that you may administer justice indifferently between the Farmer and the brewer: withal letting you know that we have received depositions upon oath of very high natures and we might thereupon have proceeded in a more severe way in these matters. But at the desire of the Farmer we have resolved in the first place to try what this our letter will operate. We have no doubt of the good effect thereof, as that the Farmers and officers may have all due encouragement and countenance.
Sept. 2. Treasury reference (conveyed by Sir G. Downing) to Lord Ashley of the petition of Tho. Sorrell, a sub-Commissioner of Excise, co. Dorset, complaining of abuses done to him by divers persons there in the execution of his office. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 109.
Sept. 9. The Treasury Lords to the Bishop of Durham. The Grand Commissioners of Excise complain of abuses done to the Excise Officers in co. Durham by the gaoler of Durham. As he is an officer of yours, we think fit to acquaint you therewith rather than to report it to the [Privy] Council. We send you four papers concerning the matter and desire you to strictly examine it and see right done to the officers and Excise Farmers. Send us an account what you do. Ibid, p. 119.
Oct. 15. The Treasury Lords to Mr. Streete, now or late Mayor of Worcester. Yours, undated, to hand wherein you endeavour to justify your proceeding relating to the Excise. We enclose you the objections and complaints made by the Excise Farmers against your proceedings. Attend us on this day fortnight to answer thereto. In the margin: [sent] by an Exchequer messenger. Out Letters (Customs) VI. p. 119.
Oct. 20. Sir Geo. Downing to Sir John Denham and the rest of the officers of the Works, forwarding a report of the Excise Commissioners concerning repairs at the Excise Office for last Michaelmas quarter. Examine those repairs and report thereon. Ibid, p. 120.
Oct. 28. The Treasury Lords to the Attorney General. Mr. Ball, late Treasurer of Excise, informs us this morning that 746l. 12s. 6d. remains in his hands, levied by extent upon Sir Sam. Sterling, kt. We asked him to pay same into the Exchequer, but an order of the Exchequer Court directs him to keep it in his hands till further order of the said Court. Upon any occasion that may offer you are to appear for him and procure such further order so that his Majesty may receive no detriment in this matter. Ibid.
Oct. 29. Same to [the Grand Commissioners of Excise] to pass a lease under their seal to Peter Calverd and Sam. Vincent of the Excise of North-umberland, Durham, Newcastle and Berwick for three years from June 24 last at 5,170l. per an. rent: with the usual covenants: the King to be secured from all demands for imported liquors out of one county into another. All by reason that Thomas Calverd, late Farmer of the same, is lately deceased. (The like letter for a lease to the said Peter Calvered and Sam. Vincent of the Excise of Westmorland, Cumberland and Carlisle.) Ibid, pp. 122–3.
Nov. 6. The like letters to the Mayor [etc.] of Sarum and the Mayor [etc.] of Dorchester concerning the administration of the Excise Acts, ut supra, p. 866, under date Aug. 27. Ibid, p. 118.
Nov. 9. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of of Excise. William Byam, late a sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Somerset, has lately paid into the receipt of the Excise 300l. of his arrear of 359l. 5s. 4d. It is his Majesty's pleasure that the balance of 59l. 5s. 4d. be remitted to him for his former sufferings and services. Deliver up the bond of him and his security. Ibid, pp. 120–1.
Nov. 17. The Treasury Lords to the Lord Privy Seal to pass as soon as possible the privy seal authorising the present Commissioners of Excise to pay such unpaid tallies as were struck upon the late Commissioners, the despatch thereof being of much import to his Majesty's service. Ibid, p. 123.
Nov. 25. Same to the Grand Commissioners of Excise and to the Farmers of Excise of the five counties as below approving the method as follows for payment of tallies as proposed by the Cofferer of the Household, Sir Stephen Fox and Mr. Pepys, and in pursuance of the privy seal of the 24th inst. And whereas the farm of [the five counties, viz.] Bucks, Essex, Kent, Norfolk and Suffolk, being 54,700l. per an., is by the terms of the lease thereof to be paid into the Exchequer and consequently cannot be applied to the payment of any of the said tallies, but must be issued out to discharge orders in course, the Farmers thereof are hereby directed to give notice from time to time to the Excise Commissioners of all payments made into the Exchequer by them on account of their farm that so the said Commissioners may proportion their payments of tallies and orders in the following list as here directed. Ibid, pp. 121–2.
Prefixing: proposal from William Ashburnham, Cofferer of the Household, Sam. Pepys, Treasurer of Tangier, and Sir Stephen Fox, Paymaster of the Forces. The tallies and orders remaining unpaid upon the Country Excise this 19th Oct., 1668, are as follows:
l. s. d.
tallies for the Duke of Monmouth 10,500 0 0
tallies for Tangier 40,000 0 0
orders for the Guards 5,566 10 0
orders for the Cofferer of the Household 12,000 0 0
orders in exchange [or liquidation] of orders on the Poll 30,000 0 0
£98,066 10 0
We propose that these be paid in manner following, viz.: The Duke of Monmouth's tallies to be paid by 1,500l. every quarter, the first quarter to be Michaelmas last; 5,566l. 10s. 0d. to be paid into the Exchequer for clearing the orders for the Guards; 10,000l. to be paid in part of Tangier tallies; 12,000l. to be paid into the Exchequer for clearing the Cofferer's orders; 10,000l. to be paid into the Exchequer for paying as in part of the orders exchanged for the orders on the Poll; 10,000l. to be paid in further part of Tangier tallies; 10,000l. to be paid into the Exchequer; 10,000l. to be paid in further part of Tangier tallies; 10,000l. to be paid into the Exchequer; 10,000l. to be paid in full of Tangier tallies; and then all moneys to be paid into the Exchequer to pay off orders in course.
Dec. 16. Sir George Downing to Col. Walcupp [Warcup] forwarding Sir Henry Coker's letter. Send the Treasury Lords your answer hereto. Out Letters Customs VI, p. 124.
Dec. 17. The Treasury Lords to Sir Robert Long [Auditor of the Receipt]. Insert in your weekly certificates what the Farmers of the London Excise are in arrear of their rent of the London farm and also of the [five counties'] farm undertaken by them, the rent of which latter they are to pay immediately into the Exchequer. If necessary advise hereon with the Auditor of the Excise and with Mr. Ashmole [Comptroller of the Country Excise]. Ibid.
Treasury warrant to the Excise Commissioners to pay interest money as formerly has been done in pursuance of the covenants with the [various] Farmers of Excise at the rate of 6 per cent. on their advance money [on condition that] they clear their rent in due manner. Ibid.
Treasury approval of the incidents bill of the late [Southampton Buildings] Excise Office as certified in detail by the late Grand Commissioners of Excise, viz. for last June 24 quarter. (Total, 629l. 12s. 3d.) Ibid, pp. 125–6.
1668–9.
Jan. 4.		 The Treasury Lords to the Corporation of Barnstaple, forwarding a copy of the petition and complaint of Sir James Smith, Farmer of Excise of co. Devon, and of the affidavit of William Dryman and Zacheus Lee, touching a judgment given in your town court upon a trover brought by Robert Wills, a retailer of beer, for levying a penalty upon his goods by warrant from the sub-Commissioners of Excise [of said county] for offences against the Excise laws. We think fit to acquaint you herewith before bringing it before the King in Council. Send us a speedy answer to the complaint and a true state of the matter in writing signed by the mayor. Out Letters (Customs) VI. p. 127.
Jan. 5. Treasury warrant to the Auditor of the Receipt to call before you the Excise Commissioners, Auditor and Comptroller and the Farmers of the London Excise and to examine how far the rent of the Excise both of London and the country is paid. Having settled the same report thereon to us and for the future keep them to exact payment according to their covenants and in case of neglect on their part represent it in your weekly certificate. You are also to take care that the money be duly brought into the Exchequer and paid thence on orders according to course. And the interest upon the loans [or advance money] is to be paid no longer than till [the date] the money shall be ready in the Exchequer for them and [that it be at their own cost and loss of interest if the money in repayment] remain there by their neglect of demanding it. Ibid.
Jan. 7. The Treasury Lords to Sir Wimfred Lawson, Sir George Fletcher, John Lamplugh, esq., John Barwick, esq., Justices of Peace for co. Cumberland. Complaint is made to us from several officers belonging to the Farmer of Excise of your county against the Justices of Peace thereof that upon hearing informations exhibited before you and plainly proved you have given judgment against the offenders not warranted by law as [for instance] double value only in case of denial of entrance, whereas the statute directs double value and 15l.: that upon appeals at the Quarter Sessions you have reversed judgments legally given by the sub-Commissioners of Excise and given double costs against the informers without examination of the matter of fact, only because the said informer was not present in Court, although he never had any notice of the appeal: that some of the officers have been by you imprisoned for several days together and afterwards bound over and indited for no other matter but entering into the house of a retailer to gauge beer and ale there remaining: that some of you on hearing informations for concealment of drink contrary to the statute of 15 Car. II. have given double the duty only against the offenders, whereas the said statute gives 20s. for every barrel so concealed; and that you have caused the said double duty to be levied by persons who convert the same to their own use and deny payment thereof to the Farmers. All this tends not only to the discouragement of the officers and detriment of the Farmers, but to the damage of the King in lessening the Excise revenue. All which we hope you will seriously consider and cause all such moneys levied upon judgments to be forthwith paid to the Farmers, and give speedy redress to them and their officers in the matters complained of and for the future to give them your ready and vigorous assistance in their applications to you concerning the Excise. Ibid, p. 131.
Jan. 22. The Treasury Lords to the Attorney General. Complaint is made to us by Mr. Beane, Farmer of Excise of Essex, that great quantities of beer and ale have been brewed in London and Middlesex and carried into Essex during the last farm [of the Essex Excise] ending 1668, June 24. The Farmers of the London Excise have covenanted by their lease to pay [the duty on such imported beer]. Beane alleges that they refuse to give him satisfaction, although he has made due proof thereof and often desired them to pay it. You are to call the said Farmers and Mr. Beane before you and compose the matter that so the King may be answered his rent which is detained for want thereof. If you cannot compose it you are to sue the London Farmers upon their covenants. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 128.
Jan. 27. Treasury warrant to same to prepare a commission to pass the great seal to constitute Sir Samuel Morland, kt. and bart., as one of the Commissioners for appeals in Excise loco Richard Hopton, deceased: the salary to commence from Sept. 29 last and to be during pleasure. Ibid.
Feb. 1. The Treasury Lords to the Aldermen and Assistants of Bury in Suffolk. On the 15th Jan. ult. the case of William Stockton, et al. Farmers of Excise of Suffolk, for three years ending 1665, Sept. 29, was represented to the King in Council. They are in arrear several sums of money on their rent which they allege they are disabled to make good by reason of their losses form a contagious disease in Bury and several other parts of that county which raged in that degree that the assizes were removed and the people left their houses. It was ordered by the King in Council that the truth hereof should be certified by the Justices of Peace or other persons of quality of the county. Give us an account hereof both of your own knowledge and by what information you can get by examination as to the condition of said town and county thereabouts between 1662, Michaelmas, and 1663, Michaelmas, the said disease being in that year as alleged, viz., when it began, when it ended, when it most raged, and how many died in the time. (The like letter to the Mayor of Sudbury, co. Suffolk. The like letter to Lord Cornwallis, Sir Gervas Elwas, Mr. Walgrave, Sir William Gaudy, Sir Tho. Harvy, and Sir Thomas Cullum [Justices of Peace, co. Suffolk].) Ibid, pp. 129, 130.
Feb. 8. Treasury warrant to Sir George Benyon, Francis Finch and Edward Wyngate. You heretofore purchased for his Majesty's use a lease of a capital messuage in St. Bartholomew Lane near the Royal Exchange which was afterwards employed for the Excise Office and an assignment of the said lease made to you for his Majesty's use by the persons then interested therein. You are hereby in accordance with the privy seal of Nov. 30 last to assign said lease and all the right which you have therein in trust for the King to Richard Tomlinson of St. Paul's, Covent Garden, apothecary, and his assigns: his Majesty having in the said privy seal declared his pleasure to that effect and that the said lease so to be assigned shall be disposed of by the said Richard Tomlinson and his assigns without any accompt for the same. Ibid, p. 132.
Mar. 17. The Treasury Lords to the sheriffs of co. Herts to excuse William Bucknall from serving on the Grand Jury for the body of the said county at the assizes to be held on the 27th inst.: the said Bucknall and his partners in the farm of the Excise of London having a covenant in their farm promising them exemption from serving on any juries at any assizes or sessions whatsoever. (The like letter "to the judges of Hertfordshire.") Out Letters (Customs) VI p. 133.
1669
Mar. 26.		 Same to the Earl of Arlington concerning the abovesaid assignment of the lease of the late Excise Office in Bartholomew Lane, ur supra, pp. 871–2, which (according to the privy seal of Nov. 30 last) was purchased to his Majesty's use about June 1661, by Sir George Benyon, Francis Finch and Edmond Wingate and one Nath. Manton, since deceased, as late Commissioners and Governors of Excise. The same Edmond Wingate is a mistake and should be Edward Wingate. Have it rectified in the privy seal. Ibid, p. 134.
Mar. 29. Same to Viset. Fanshawe to forbear process against Sir Tho. Foote, et al. Commissioners and Governors of the Grand Excise for three years from 1650, Sept. 29, upon an accompt thereof in which there is a super charged upon them of 186l. whereof 171l. is alleged by them to have been by them paid to divers under Commissioners for riding charges and the remaining 15l. to a person from whom they have no acquittance. We are satisfied that the said 171l. was really paid by them as abovesaid, and the Act of Oblivion being favourable in that case, we think fit to allow it. You are to return the said account to us to be reformed accordingly. Ibid, pp. 134–5.
April 7. Same to same to deliver up (without any further charge or demands) the bonds of Lady Stukely, relict of Sir Tho. Stukely, it appearing from the state of her case as certified Mar. 31 last by John Lawrence [Solicitor of Excise] that said Sir Thomas became bound as security for the arrear of 78l. 18s. 1d. charged on Hugh Stukely, late sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Devon on 1661, Lady day quarter receipts, and of 266l. 19s. 1d. charged on Roger Stukely, late same for co. Devon, on the 1662, Sept. 29 quarter's receipts: both which arrears are now satisfied, notwithstanding which there is still a demand made of 30l. more for the charge of prosecuting the said bonds in the Exchequer, on which pretence the bonds are refused to be delivered up. Ibid, p. 135.
April 9. Same to Justice Stonehowse and Justice Pigott, Justices of Peace for co. Berks. The Farmers of the Excise of your county complain that upon applications to you against several persons who have endeavoured to defraud the King of his Excise you have not done them right according to the Excise laws. We might, as we usually do in such cases, have acquainted the King in Council therewith, but these being the first complaints we have had against you, we satisfy ourselves for the present by acquainting you therewith. We enclose affidavits relating thereto and expect that for the future you give the said Farmers and their officers all due assistance and encouragement according to law or otherwise we shall be necessitated to proceed further against you. Ibid, p. 136.
April 27. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to dismiss Anthony Robins from his employment as a sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Yorks, as to whom Henry Guy, Farmer of the Excise of said county, has complained to us, shewing that he has misdemeaned himself therein to the prejudice of the Farmers and the diminution of the revenue, and praying that he be dismissed and that his books, writings, and accompts may be delivered to Rowland Watson, another of the said sub-Commissioners, and that the remaining three sub-Commissioners may be authorised to put in execution the Excise laws in that county. You are to order the delivery of such books, etc., and to issue out [fresh] Commissions to the said three sub-Commissioners. Out Letters (Customs) VI, pp. 136–7.
May 18. Same to same to deliver up the bonds of William Christian and Jeremy Tollhurst for their contract for their collection of some arrears of Excise of cos. Cumberland and Westmorland, whereof they were sub-Commissioners for the year 1662, their case having been referred to the Treasury by Order in Council of 1667–8, Feb. 17. It appears from the report made 1667, May 13, by the late Grand Commissioners of Excise to Treasurer Southampton that in part of said arrears (amounting to 410l.) said Christian and Tolhurst did in Feb., 1664–5, pay 100l. into the Excise Office and offered to pay 100l. more on the remaining 210l. being remitted to them, "which was then allowed by the Lord Ashley accordingly," and would have been allowed by Treasurer Southampton, but that he was then so weak he could not sign the same. The second 100l. was paid into the Excise Office 1667–8, Jan. 7, and in accordance with an order we made another 50l. was paid by them the 10th inst. as in full of all demands [from the King on them] on the said account. Ibid, pp. 137–8.
June 11. The Treasury Lords to Sir Richard Floyd, Justice of Peace at Wrexham. We have received a complaint from Abraham Anselme and John Perry, Farmers of the Excise of Wales, that upon an information before you and other Justices against one Jones of Wrexham, retailer, for a concealment of drink (the penalty whereof is 20s. per barrel) you declared that the wife's or servant's denial of entrance or concealment of drink could not make the master culpable, provided it were not done by himself in person. This opinion if once taken for law will utterly invalidate the provisions in the Excise laws against such denial of entrance or concealment for that every master will absent himself when any fraud is to be committed. And it has been found that the putting the laws in execution in the said particulars has been of great advantage and will be absolutely necessary to preserve the Excise revenue. We desire you to seriously consider the premises and for the future to give such remedy as may answer the intention of the Excise Acts. In the margin: given [to] Mr. Bostock. Ibid, p. 138.
June 15. The Treasury Lords to John Dalson, Robert Hilton and Danll. Fleming, Justices of Peace for co. Westmorland. We have received a complaint from Samuell Vincent and Peter Calverd, Farmers of Excise for co. Westmorland, against you touching matters contrary to the [Excise] Acts and the practice of the counties and of ill precedent to the revenue the due and orderly raising whereof is chiefly left to your care. We might have represented the same to the King [in Council] but send your first a copy of the proofs against you and desire you will consider thereof and remedy the complaints. One of the said Farmers' officers, Richard Westwood, stands indicated for not leaving with the retailer a copy of his return. We advise you to suspend all prosecution hereon least the gaugers' unjust vexation in that king bring same prejudice on the promoters, the offence being no breach of any law, for (as we are advised by the King's Counsel) the gauger is not obliged to leave copies of returns till after the retailers have made their entries and not at all except where the returns themselves are insisted on as charges [debets] against them [the retailers]. We recommend the whole matter to you and desire a speedy answer. In the margin: given to Mr. Bostock. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 139.
July 16. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to deliver up the bonds of Henry Leister, late a sub-Commissioner of Excise, co. Somerset, for the year 1662 and of Capt. John Beaumont one of his securities; it appearing by a report of 1668. June 10, from the late Grand Commissioners of Excise that said Leister stood charged with 348l. 6s. 8d., for which Treasurer Southampton directed that no prosecutions should be made against them in regard of their proverty; of which said sum there has been lately paid on behalf of William Byam, another of said Leister's securities, 159l. 5s. 4d. and his bonds delivered up; and further that Capt. John Beaumont, another of said Leister's securities is likewise altogether unable in respect of former sufferings and services to answer any part of said debt. We have acquainted the King therewith and it is his pleasure that the remaining 189l. 1s. 4d. be remitted to said Leister and Beaumont. Same is hereby to be allowed on their account as in full discharge thereof and their bonds delivered up and all extents, etc., against them discharged. Ibid, p. 140.
July 21. Same to same to allow and pay 6 per cent. interest to Edmond Chamberlaine, Farmer of Excise of Bristol and co. Gloucester, on his advance of a quarter's rent of his farm thereof; he having fallen short some few days in payment of his rent for the last Lady day quarter, but the same having since been paid within a few days of the due time, which [delay] was occasioned by the neglect of those he returned his moneys to in London. Ibid, p. 142.
July 23. Treasury warrant to Visct. Fanshaw, the King's Remembrancer, to deliver up the bonds of George Williamson and William Christian, late Farmers of Excise for Cumberland and Westmorland, for 2¾ years to 1668, June 24, on their first paying into the Exchequer 7l. 10s. 0d.; it appearing from an account signed by Thomas Streete, accomptant in the Excise Office, that there remained 60l. due from them, whereof by warrant of this day's date we direct 52l. 10s. 0d. to be allowed them. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 141.
July 26. Same to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to give commission to _ Hughes. John Cooke and Joseph Litlewood [as sub-Commissioners] for management of the Excise of co. Wilts: all at the request of Edmond Warcup, esq., Farmer of the Excise of that county. Ibid.
Same to same for a commission to John Harcourt, John Loeman and George Brawning to recover the arrears of Excise of co. Devon: all at the request of Sir James Smyth, kt., Farmer of Excise of said county. Ibid. p. 142.
July 28. Same to same to allow, discharge and remit 125l. to Richard Brathwayt and partners, late Farmers of Excise of Westmorland, they having taken the farm for three years from Michaelmas, 1662, at 900l. per an., and paid their rent for the first two years accordingly. and all of the third year, except 225l. towards which they crave an allowance as having taken the farm at too great a rent, whereon the late Excise Commissioners have reported that soon after the said farm was let the Farmers and some of the gentlemen of the county acquainted them that the farm was over-rated 200l. per an., having been formerly joined with Cumberland in regard the receipt was small and being rated equally upon the dividing them, but Cumberland being since found the better receipt by 200l. per an. the Excise of Westmorland being then not worth above 800l. per an.: on which report it is the King's pleasure that 125l. be remitted them. On their paying the balance of 100l. their bonds are to be delivered up and all extents against them are to be discharged. Ibid, p. 143.
Oct. 13. Same to the Attorney or Solicitor General to prepare a commission, to pass the great seal, to constitute Sir John Walpoole, one of the Commissioners for appeals in Excise loco Sir Richard Browne, deceased: with the salary of 200l. per an., to commence from Michaelmas last: during pleasure. Ibid, p. 144.
Same to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to give George Underwood a commission as a sub-Commissioner of Excise for co. Norfolk, along with Augustus Curtis and John Silverwood. Ibid.
Prefixing: memorial dated Oct. 12, to the Treasury Lords from E. Bostock on behalf of the Farmers of Excise of said county, proposing said Underwood in place of Richard Bucknall, who has left his employment as one of the said sub-Commissioners.
Oct. 22. The like warrant for John Fletcher to be a sub-Commissioner of Excise for the seven counties of South Wales loco Charles Herbert. Ibid, p. 145.
Prefixing: like memorial from said Bostocke on behalf of Abraham Anselme and John Perry, Farmers of Excise in North and South Wales, praying that said Herbert may be dismissed, and for John Fletcher to be commissioned in his place along with Edward Buckly and Thomas Patrick.
Oct. 29. The like warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General for a great seal to constitute John Trelawney as one of the Commissioners of Appeals in Excise loco William Prynn, deceased: with the salary of 200l. per an. Out Letters (Customs) VI. p. 145.
Nov. 9. The like warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to give commission to Charles Herbert, esq., and Henry Dunell, gent., for collecting the arrears of Excise in South Wales: all at the request of Richard Gwynn, Farmer thereof for the period 1665, Sept. 29, to 1668, June 24. Ibid, p. 146.
Nov. 19. The Treasury Lords to Tho. Cooper, William Ince, William Williams, William Minshall, Richard Bird and Richard Taylor, esqrs, Justices of Peace in the city of Chester. We are complained to by John Brock, sub-farmer of Excise for your city, that upon several informations brought before you against William Warrington and George Bunnell brewers in said city, for denying entrance to the gauger and carrying out and delivering beer and ale before duty paid, you not only denied the testimony of the gauger on the sub-Farmer's behalf and dismissed the informations, declaring the defendants not guilty, but then and there by open checks and threats as well against the said sub-Farmer and his gauger as against the prosecutor of the informations you have rendered them all so vexatious to the people that they cannot but with difficulty and danger proceed in their employment. We are much dissatisfied with your proceeding herein and desire you to take better care of his Majesty's concernments of this kind for the future by giving all due encouragement and countenance to the said sub-Farmers of Excise officers in your city, otherwise we shall be forced to make report hereof to the King in Council, who will thereupon consider if some other course for preserving his revenue in your city and shewing his just resentment of such proceedings. In the margin: delivered to Mr. Brock. Ibid.
Dec. 13. Money warrant for 25l. to Major Rowland Laughorne in part of 3,000l. granted to him by the patent of 1660–1, Mar. 16, as in lieu of arrears of pay. Ibid, p. 147.
Dec. 17. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to insert in your future quarterly bills of incidents for the Excise Office such charges of law suits as shall from time to time be certified by John Lawrence "our [the Treasury] solicitor": the present Grand Farmers of [the London] Excise having, in their agreement of 1668, June 10, undertaken to bear all incident charges of the said Office for the sum of 800l. per an. except the charges of law suits prosecuted on the King's behalf. Ibid.
1669–70. Jan. The Treasury Lords to John Lanpleigh, Edw. Stanley and Rich. Patrinkson, Justices of Peace co. Cumberland. We have read yours of July 8 directed to Sir George Downing, in which you desire to be resolved in some queries concerning the Excise. We enclose a copy of the opinion [missing] of the Grand Commissioners of Excise, concerning the same. Take care accordingly to uphold the revenue in your county and to give all due countenance and encouragement to the officers. Ibid.
Jan. 17. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to allow 500l. to George Skipp in his account as Farmer of Excise, co. Hants, to 1668, June 24. as defalcation for damage by the plague, all as by the privy seal of 1667, Oct. 1: the balance remaining in his said account being 620l. 6s. 8d., whereof it is certified by Thomas Sturt, your officer in that behalf, that said Skipp paid in 120l. 6s. 8d. the 24th of Dec. last: the late Grand Commissioners of Excise having reported 1667, Aug. 15, advising 500l. as a reasonable defalcation. Thereupon you are to deliver up the counterpart of Skipp's lease and all bonds relating thereto. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 148.
Jan. 25. Same to same to grant commissions to George Hughes. Alexander Read and Richard Dalton as sub-Commissioners of Excise for co. Wilts; and to Edw. Phips, Jno. FitzJames and Francis Bury as same for co. Dorset. Ibid, p. 149
Prefixing: memorial dated Jan. 24 from Edm. Warcup as Farmer of Excise of said counties separately proposing said persons as sub-Commissioners.
Jan. 28. Same to same to deliver up the bonds of Aphra Stevens, widow of Thomas Stevens, who became bound with Henry Wreothesly (Whriosthesly) for 250l. remaining unpaid upon said Wreothesly's contract for an arrear of 714l. of the Excise of co. Kent, at the rate of 357l. of which sum there yet remains said 250l. still unpaid: all by reason that said Stevens died insolvent and was not concerned in any profits to be made by the said arrears and that a plene administravit has been pleaded and may be proved by said widow in bar of that debt. wherefore she has prayed to compound the said debt and has paid in 80l. (the sum advised by the Excise Commissioners in their report of Dec. 16 last in regard of the meanness of her estate) in full satisfaction of said 250l. as is certified by Thomas Streete, Deputy Accomtant General of Excise, the 27th inst. Ibid, pp. 149–50.
Feb. 23. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw, [King's Remembrancer], to suspend process "until the last sealing day for issuing process of the last term" against Humphry Beane, late Farmer of Excise for co. Suffolk, for not having yet passed his account for that farm; his said account being now before the Treasury Lords for consideration. Ibid, p. 150.
Same to same to suspend till Monday week all process against Henry Brabant, late Farmer of Excise of Northumberland and Durham and Newcastle: there being some difficulties relating to the matter of his account in regard whereof the Treasury Lords think fit to suspend the further consideration thereof till that time. Ibid, p. 151.
Mar. 8. Treasury warrant [to the Grand Commissioners of Excise] to issue commissions to John Whidden, of Exeter, gent., John Lowman, of Exeter, gent., and Jasper Cooper, of the parish of St. Thomas the Apostle, co. Devon, gent., as sub-Commissioners of Excise for co. Devon. Ibid.
Prefixing: memorial from Sir James Smyth, Farmer of Excise for said county, proposing said names.
Mar. 16. The Treasury Lords to Viscount Fanshaw [King's Remembrancer] to suspend process till the 25th inst. against Humphry Beane, late Farmer of Excise for co. Suffolk, his account being still under consideration of the said Lords. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 152.
1670
Mar. 30.		 Treasury warrant to the Attorney or Solicitor General to prepare a grant to pass the great seal to constitute Peter Prideiux, esq., to be a Commissioner for Appeals in Excise loco Robert Scowen, deceased: with the salary of 200l. per an. as from Christmas last: during pleasure. Ibid.
The Treasury Lords to [the King's Remembrancer] to suspend till the end of Easter term process against Humphrey Beane, late Farmer of Excise for co. Suffolk, his accounts being at present before the Treasury Lords for consideration as to pretences for defalcations. Ibid, p. 153.
May 6. Same to same to supersede process against Henry Brabant, late Farmer of Excise of Durham and Northumberland, on his debt of 2,372l. 2s. 0½d. on his farm to 1668, June 24: the Treasury Lords having directed him April 12 last to pay 200l. presently, 300l. at Michaelmas next, and 500l. at Lady day next and then to be discharged of the whole arrear, which he has undertaken to do and has already paid the said 200l. Ibid, p. 154.
May 13. Same to William Williams, Recorder of Chester, and to the Justices [of Peace] there to the same effect, ur supra, p. 866. Ibid, p. 155.
May 26. Same to John Burecroft, esq., Mayor of the city of Worcester, and to the Justices of Peace there. We have considered yours of Feb. 14 last touching a case depending before you on an information exhibited against a retailer of cider in the city of Worcester for making no entry, whereas you say that he has proved that he made a true entry of all the cider he had retailed from the time laid in the information to the exhibiting thereof at the Excise Office and the same was refused. You seem to be doubtful whether the retailer ought to be charged with the duty for the whole quantity of cider when lodged in his celler or to be only charged with the said duty and to make his entry as it is retailed. We have consulted the Excise Acts and have advised [with the King's Counsel] as to the usage and practice of managing the duty relating to cider and it is evident to us that so soon as any retailer of cider receives any quantity thereof into his possession he is chargeable with the Excise for the whole, it being to be understood that the use thereof is to be retailed and such retailer ought within a month to make entry thereof and to be charged therewith by the gauger accordingly and within one other month next after to pay the duty whether he has sold it or not. This we are informed has been the constant course and practice therein ever since the statutes for Excise were made, and as regards cider they are not capable of being put in practice in any other way without apparent wrong to his Majesty. Ibid, p. 156.
June 3. The Treasury Lords to Thomas Brace, Samll. How, William Gosse and Jno. Sims. Two informations are exhibited against Charles Corsellis, brewer, for concealment of great quantities of strong beer and are to be tried on the 7th inst. at the Excise Office in Aldersgate Street. You are to attend as witnesses. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 157.
July 25. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to issue commissions to Edward Phipps of Dorchester, co. Dorset, gent., Adam Winthorpe of Westm[inster] gent., and Edward Griffith of Devizes, co. Wilts, as sub-Commissioners of Excise for co. Dorset: at the nomination of Edward Warcup. Farmer of Excise of said county. Ibid.
Aug. 6. Notice to Sir George Downing that the Treasury Lords will, on the 31st Oct. next at the Treasury Chambers. receive propositions for the farm of the Excise; and likewise on the 7th Nov. next propositions for the farm of the Customs and new impositions on wines. Ibid, p. 159.
Aug. 22. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to forthwith make new commissions to the several persons who were sub-Commissioners of Excise in the several counties of England and Wales on the 15th Aug. inst. within the limits of the respective farms in which they were authorised to be sub-Commissioners by William Forth, Robert Huntingdon, Richard Kingdon and John James, esq. before the said date: all by reason that by a great seal of the 15th inst. the King has constituted Sir Samuel Moreland, Robert Huntingdon, William Forth and Richard Kingdon to be Commissioners of Excise in place of the said Huntingdon, Forth. Kingdon and James by which the several sub-commissions granted by these latter became superseded. Ibid, p. 158.
Oct. 31.
Treasury
Chambers.		 Present: the King, Lord Ashley, Treasurer [of the Household], Sir John Duncombe. Ibid, p. 164.
Ordered: That such as desire to farm the Country Excise or any part thereof, do bring in their propositions on Dec. 12 next: that same be sealed up and the name of each bidder written on the outside thereof, but not the name of the county or counties for which they shall bid.
If propositions be made for more counties than one and yet not for the whole Country Excise in such case they are to express in each proposition how much they will give for each county. But if any proposition be for the whole Country Excise, it is not expected that it should be expressed how much they value each county in particular.
His Majesty expects only one quarter's advance of their rent and good security for performance of their covenants.
Nov. 22. Treasury warrant to John Birch, Auditor of Excise, and to John Bruer, his deputy, not to allow tallies as follows for 62,915l. 19s. 4d. in the account of the Farmers of the London Excise. By the money warrant of this day's date the Treasury Lords have (in accordance with the privy seal of the 12th inst.) ordered payment of 62,915l. 19s. 4d. to Sir William Bucknall, et al. Farmers of the Excise of London, Middlesex and Surrey and of the five counties of Kent. Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Bucks, being so much due to them upon the tallies, detailed, ur supra. Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. III, pp. 685–6: all which said sums amount to 62,915l. 19s. 4d. By certificate dated Sept. 19 last from John Bruer, Deputy Auditor of Excise, it appears that no part of the said moneys have been applied by the said Farmers to the payment of their rents payable before 1669, June 24, but that the said rents are all discharged by other payments, allowances or defalcations and that the said tallies do not contain any part of the 35,000l. advanced by said Farmers upon their farm of the five counties, so that the said sum of 62,915l. 19s. 4d. is still due to them and a money order is now issued for the payment thereof. In order to prevent any allowance of the said tallies as in part of the said Farmers' rent for the year ended 1670, June 24 (which would be equivalent to repaying said debt twice over) special care is hereby to be taken in accordance with the privy seal of the 12th inst., that no allowance be made to said Farmers of any of said tallies as in discharge of their rent for the said year: and it is conceived that his Majesty will be sufficiently secured from the danger thereof by the delivering in of the said tallies into the Tally Office, where a payment is to be entered upon record upon such of them as are tallies of loan and the rest are there to be kept and a memorial to be entered upon record how the same are satisfied, concerning which the Treasury Lords have given direction to the Auditor and other officers of the Receipt. Ibid, pp. 160–1.
Nov. 24. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to appoint Nicholas (Noah) Sterling, Philip Newlin and Thomas Leighton as sub-Commissioners of Excise for co. Berks at the request of John Peacock and William Oakes. Farmers of Excise of said county, as represented on their behalf by Tho. Gaywood. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 162.
Dec. 12. The Treasury Lords to same to allow interest to Henry Guy, Farmer of Excise of co. Yorks, for his advance money, he having fallen short some days in payment of his rent for Michaelmas quarter last, his first payment due on Nov. 8 last thereon not having been paid till Nov. 26: all by reason that his delay was caused by his not being able to receive such money of his as remained in the hands of the executrix of Alderman Colvile, to whom he usually had returned his moneys. Ibid, pp. 162–3.
1670–1.
Feb. [? 14.]		 Same to same to appoint Samuell Williams, Paull Rawlins and John Wells, gent., as sub-Commissioners of Excise for co. Southants: at the nomination of Benedict Thistlethwayte, gent., one of the Farmers of the Excise of said county. Ibid, p. 163.
Mar 24. Same to [the King's Remembrancer] to suspend process till further order against Sir William Bucknall and the rest of the Farmers of the London Excise for not passing their accounts; the said accounts being now made up and in the Auditor's hands. Ibid, p. 165.
1671.
April 25.		 Same to the Grand Commissioners of Excise, allowing and approving the said Commissioners' proposed schedule of farms of the Country Excise; and authorising them to prepare said leases in accordance therewith on each farmer first paying his advance quarter and giving good security. Ibid, pp. 166–7.
Prefixing: said schedule being in substance ut supra, Calendar of Treasury Books, Vol. III, p. 833, with the following variants:
the farm of co. Berks is to John Peacock alone.
the farm of the five counties to Bucknall, et al. is rated at 79,030l. and the separate farm of strong waters to them is rated at 2,000l.
Co. Cambridge, John Milligent appears as John Millecent; and co. Cornwall, John Heron appears as John Herne, and co. Warwick, Sir Arthur Caily appears as Cawley.
The farms of (1) Hants and Isle of Wight (2) Dorset (3) Wilts, are to be taken separately by Peter Calverd at rents respectively of 6,000l., 4,200l., and 5,000l.
The farm of co. Oxford is to Sir T. Penyston alone, and rated at 7,600l.
The farms of Yorks and Sussex are to be taken separately, the first by Tho. Coulton at 18,100l., the second by Peter Calvered at 6,000l. (The full total appears here as 282,500l.)
May 15. The Treasury Lords to the sheriff of co. Denbigh. A petition has been presented to us by Abraham Anselme and John Perry, Farmers of Excise in Wales, complaining of Edward Lewys, keeper of the common gaol for co. Denbigh, for refusing to detain in custody and for setting at liberty Howell Thomas of Llanwiardon, co. Denbigh, who was committed to his custody on a warrant from several justices of the peace for several contempts by him committed against the Excise. We are very sensible of what ill consequence acts of this native may prove. You are to examine the matter of fact and if it be as stated your are to have said Thomas arrested and to remove the said Lewis from his place as keeper of said gaol. Out Letters (Customs) VI, p. 168.
May 16. Same to [the King's Remembrancer] for process of immediate extent against William Portington of London, mercer, to whom Edward Atkinson, one of the Farmers of Excise, co. Lincoln, consigned 1,221l. 10s. 0d. by several bills of exchange to be paid into the Excise Office, which money said Portington acknowledged Jan. 17 last, but has failed to pay any part thereof: as appears by the affidavit of Edward Atkinson of Grays Inn, gent. Ibid, p. 169.
May 25. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to issue a commission to Jo. Lloyd, Nicholas Bowker, Rowland Watson, Robert Gravely and Tho. Chadwicke for the collection of the arrears of Excise of co. Yorks: all on the nomination of Hen. Guy, Farmer of the Excise of said county. Ibid, p. 170.
May 26. Treasury approval of a draft indenture as follows. The leases are to be prepared and passed accordingly, leaving out the nomine poenae. Ibid.
Prefixing: note of the indenture between Sir Samuell Moreland, Sir John James, Robert Huntington, esq., William Forth, Dr. of Laws, and Richard Kingdon, Commissioners of Excise [? and the various proposed Farmers of the Country Excise].
May 31. Treasury commission to John Ball to be Cashier General for the present and additional duty of the Country Excise, it having been desired by Sir Stephen Fox, Paymaster of Guards and Garrisons, on behalf of himself and others whose assignments are upon the Country Excise, that said Ball may be restored to the receipt of the said Country Excise, he having formerly received the said duty: the Grand Commissioners of Excise having thereon represented their opinion that it is expedient that the person to be appointed for this office should have no dependency upon any Farmer of this duty. His office is to date from June 24 next, and is to cover all the Excise farms except that of London, Middlesex and Surrey: all at an allowance of 800l. per an. for himself, clerks and incidents (except charges of law suits). Ball having accepted the said office at that allowance. Out Letters (Customs) VI, pp. 171–2.
June 8. The Treasury Lords to the Auditor of the Receipt. There is 1,500l. remaining unpaid at the Exchequer upon an order for 6,526l. 19s. 0d. registered on the Country Excise and payable to John Colvile. By affidavit of William Dawson, Treasurer to the Farmers of the London Excise, it appears that he has a note for 485l. payable on demand signed by Henry Young, servant to said Colvile as so much remitted by the Farmers of the revenue in Ireland and that said money has been paid to the King out of the cash of the Farmers of the London Excise. And it appears also by the affidavit of William Kiffin that 1,000l. has been paid into the Exchequer out of the said Farmers' cash upon the security of a note for 1,000l. from said Colvile delivered to the said Farmers by said Kiffin, said sum being part of a loan to the King from said Kiffin. In order that said Farmers may be satisfied their cash which should have been applied to their rent and in order that Colvile's executors may be enabled to satisfy said Farmers you are hereby to accept from the said Farmers of the London Excise the said notes to the value of 1,485l. and to give same in payment to the relict of John Colvile as in discharge of the order upon which she claimes the same and immediately thereupon to repay back to the said Farmers 1,458l. out of the 1,500l. by them paid into the Exchequer and there remaining unpaid so that said Farmers may be satisfied and the said money applied to the payment of their rent from which it was diverted. Ibid, p. 172.
June 13. Treasury warrant to the Grand Commissioners of Excise to pay into the Exchequer from time to time the rents of the Excise Farms for the paying of orders in course, except such sums as the Treasury Lords shall particularly appoint to be otherwise paid. Ibid, p. 173.
July 8. The Treasury Lords to Visct. Fanshaw [the King's Remembrancer], to supersede process against Sir Francis Cobb, kt., late a sub-Commissioner of Excise for the East and North Ridings of Yorks, on his bond for the arrears of Excise due in the time of his collection, he alleging that he could never receive the said arrears, the people being so very poor: as to the truth of which the Treasury Lords desire to enquire further. Ibid.
July 19. Treasury approval of the securities as follows, proposed by John Ardern and John Ramsey, esq., Farmers of Excise of cos. Leicester and Rutland: viz. Sir John Poynts of Iron Acton, co. Gloucester, kt., Edward Lee of Norwell, co. Notts, and Reginald Pindar of Leicester, gent. Out Letters (Customs) VI p. 174.
Prefixing: said Farmers' memorial and report thereon by the Excise Commissioners.
Same of the following as [sub-]Commissioners of Excise for cos. Leicester and Rutland: viz. Reginald Pindar, Francis Sheen and Henry Chappell, gent. Commissions are to be issued to them accordingly. Ibid, p. 175.
Prefixing: John Rumsey's nomination of said persons.
Aug. 11. Same of the following as same for co. Cambridge, viz., John Hunt, Robert Muriell and Samuell Moody, gent. Ibid.
Prefixing: nomination (represented by T. Gaywood) from the Farmers of the Cambridge Excise of said persons.
Aug. 23. Same of the following as same for the counties named, viz., William Christian, Robert Hollingsed and Sam. Osgood, for cos. Cumberland and Westmorland; and Edwd. Wigg, William Hudson and Ralph Gosling, for cos. Durham and Northumberland, as nominated by [the Farmers of Excise of said counties]. Ibid, p 176.
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