House of Commons Journal Volume 11: 21 January 1696

Martis, 21 die Januarii ;

7° Gulielmi Tertii.

Prayers.

Warner's Estate.

AN ingrossed Bill from the Lords, intituled, An Act for enabling Trustees to sell Part of the Estate of Edmund Warner, deceased, for Payment of his Debts; and for preserving the rest for the Benefit of his Heir; was read a Second time.

Resolved, That the Bill be committed to Mr. Whitacre, Sir Henry Johnson, Sir Sa. Barnardiston, Mr. Frewen, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Travers, Mr. Foley, Sir Tho. Davall, Mr. Elwill, Mr. Moyle, Sir Robert Davers, Mr. Bagnold, Sir John Bolles, Sir Robert Clayton, Mr. Gery, Mr. Harley, Mr. Stonehouse, Sir Robert Cotton, Mr. Burdet, Mr. Hedger, Mr. Campion, Sir Geo. Markham, Mr. Brewer, Mr. Johnson, Sir Math. Andrews; and all the Members that serve for the County of Suffolk: And they are to meet this Afternoon at Five a Clock, in the Speaker's Chamber.

Lord Powlett's Estate.

An ingrossed Bill, from the Lords, intituled, An Act to enable the Lord Francis Powlett to charge his Estate with Provisions for his younger Children, was read the First time.

Resolved, That the Bill be read a Second time.

Practisers of Law to take Oaths.

Sir Rowland Gwyn, according to Order, presented to the House a Bill for requiring the Practisers of the Law to take the Oaths to his Majesty.

The Bill was read the First time.

Resolved, That the Bill be read a Second time.

Ordered, That the said Bill be read upon Monday Morning next, at Eleven a Clock.

Garbling Spices.

A Petition of the West India Merchants was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, That an Act was made, in the First Year of King James the First, for the well Garbling of Spices: That the Execution of the said Act is lett to Farm, at a certain Rent, by the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London, to Mr. William Steward; who takes Advantage of some doubtful Words in the said Act, and pretends to garble not only the Commodities named in the said Act but all others, according to his own Pleasure; and now garbles Ginger exported, at 20s. per Ton, and amounts to 8 l. per Cent. which never used to be garbled: That Mr. Stewart, every Day, enlarges his Pretensions, at what Rates he pleases; there being no Provision in the said Act to prevent these heavy Inconveniencies, which may quite ruin the Spice-Trade; and if any Person disputes the Garbler's Power, he puts them into the Exchequer, where it costs at least 7 l. 10s. to get out again; so that many pay his Demands in their own Wrong, rather than spend a greater Sum in the Exchequer: And praying the House to consider of the said Act, and give Encouragement to the said Trade, it being now a Hundred times greater than when the said Act was made, which cannot be adapted to the present Trade.

Ordered, That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to Committee: And that they do examine the Matter thereof; and report the same, with their Opinion therein, to the House:

And it is referred to Sir Robert Davers, Sir Sam. Barnardiston, Sir William Ashurst, Mr. Moore, Sir Robert Cotton, Mr. Yates, Mr. Norris, Mr. Whitacre, Mr. Lowther, Mr. Wharton, Mr. Arnold, Sir John Bolles, Sir Rowland Gwyn, Mr. Thornhagh, Mr. Fuller, Mr. Bromley, Mr. Morris, Mr. Brewer, Mr. Gardner, Mr. Papillon, Sir Tho. Davall, Mr. Hoar, Mr. Bagnold, Mr. England, Sir Gerv. Elwes, Sir Wm. Drake, Mr. Morgan, Sir Ra. Dutton, Mr. White, Mr. Stonehouse, Mr. Lampton, Mr. Chase, Mr. Guy: And they are to meet this Afternoon at Four a Clock, in the Speaker's Chamber: And are empowered to send for Persons, Papers, and Records.

Garbling Spices.

A Petition of several Salters, Grocers, Druggists, and other Traders, in the City of London, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, That in the First Year of the Reign of King James the First, an Act was made for the well Garbling of Spices, which suited that Time; but now, by the great Increase and Alteration of Trade, and by some doubtful Expression in the said Act the same is become useless, and serves only the Garbler: who executes that Office with great Rigour and Injustice; And praying Relief, and the Consideration of the House in the Premises.

Ordered, That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee, to whom the Petition of the West-India Merchants is referred: And that they do examine the Matter thereof; and report the same, with their Opinion therein, to the House.

Ditto.

A Petition of several Merchants in London, trading in Spices, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, That, in the Reign of King James the First, the East-India Company did import into England all manner of Spices, in their Soil and Dust; for which Reason, an Act was then made for the well Garbling of Spices; but since the making thereof, the Spice-Trade from India is fallen into the Hands of the Dutch; so that there are no Spices now imported into England, except Pepper, but what comes from Holland ready cleaned, so that they need no Garbling here; yet the Garbler demands a high and unnecessary Duty for Garblage of all Spices, which is very burthensome to the Subject: And praying the Consideration of the House in the Premises.

Ordered, That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee, to whom the Petition of the West-India Merchants is referred: And that they do examine the Matter thereof; and report the same, with their Opinion therein, to the House.

Wye and Lugg Navigation.

A Petition of the Mayor, Justices of the Peace, Coroner, and Grand Jury, for the Body of the City of Hereford, at the General Quarter-Session of the Peace, held the 16th Day of January 1695, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, That the Rivers of Wye and Lugg pass, for many Days Journey, through several Counties, and by many trading Towns, with a constant Stream, fit for Navigation; but that the same is obstructed by some unlawful Weirs thereon erected, that destroy the Fish, formerly the plentiful Food of the Country; to their great Damage: That the Navigation of those Rivers will, as they conceive, be of universal Benefit, not only to the adjacent Counties, but to the Nation in general; and will be a large Nursery of Seamen: And praying, That the House will remove all unlawful Obstructions, which hinder the Navigation of the said Rivers.

Ordered, That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee, to whom the Bill for making the Rivers of Wye and Lugg, in the County of Hereford, navigable, is committed.

Private Bills.

Ordered, That every private Bill have a Day appointed for Reading thereof, before the same be read.

Allowing Sir R. Stephens. to take Oaths.

A Petition of Sir Richard Stevens was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, That, in Hilary Term 1691, the Petitioner was removed from his Place, as one of the Judges of the King's Bench in Ireland, for not taking the Oaths at Westminster, according to an Act made in the 3d Year of King William and Queen Mary: That the Petitioner did take the Oaths to their Majesties when he was made a Judge, and since; and was always and is ready to take the same; but, at the Time when the said Act required the Oaths to be taken, the Petitioner was dangerously sick, and could not repair to Westminster without Danger of his Life: And praying the House to consider his Case; and that he may be relieved by a Clause to the now Bill before this House, for altering Part of the said Act.

Ordered, That Leave be given to bring in a Bill for the said Sir Richard Stevens' Relief.

Ordered, * * * *

Dr. Hascard to preach on 30th Jan.

Ordered, That Doctor Hascard, Dean of Windsor, be desired to preach before this House, at St. Margaret's Westminster, upon the 30th of January instant: And that Mr. Backwell do acquaint him therewith.

Supply Bill; Land Tax.

Ordered, That it be an Instruction to the Committee of the whole House, to whom the Bill for granting to his Majesty an Aid of Four Shillings in the Pound, for One Year, for carrying on the War against France, is committed, That they do receive Clauses, to transfer thereunto the Loans unpaid upon the Act, passed the last Session of the last Parliament, for purchasing reversionary Annuities; and upon the Act for laying certain Duties upon Glass Wares, Stone and Earthen Bottles, Coals, and Culm, for carrying on the War against France; and the Loans since the Fifth Day of October last, upon the Exchequer in general, for the Navy and Army.

Duties on Coals, &c.

A Petition of the Mayor and Jurats of the Town and Port of Dover, in behalf of themselves, Commonalty, Mariners, and other Inhabitants, of the said Port, was presented to the House, relating to the Duty laid upon Coals, by the Act, passed the last Parliament, for granting to his Majesty certain Duties upon Glass Wares, Stone and Earthen Bottles, Coals and Culm, for carrying on the War against France.

And the Question being put, That the said Petition be read;

It passed in the Negative.

Bringing Plate to be coined.

A Bill to encourage the bringing in of milled, broad, or unclipped, Monies, to be exchanged, by Commissioners, in the several Parts of this Realm, with the common People, for their clipped Monies; and for the Encouraging of Persons to bring Plate into the Mint, to be coined; was read a Second time.

Resolved, That the Bill be committed to a Committee of the whole House.

A Motion being made, and the Question being put, That it be an Instruction to the said Committee of the whole House, That they do consider of the Price of Guineas:

The House divided.

The Yeas go forth.

So it passed in the Negative.

Scotch East-India Company.

Colonel Granville, according to the Order of the Day, reported from the Committee appointed to examine what Methods were taken for obtaining the Act of Parliament passed in Scotland, for the Establishing an East-India Company; and who were the Subscribers thereunto; and who were the Promoters and Advisers thereof; the Matter, as it appeared to the Committee, upon the Examination of several Persons before them; which he read in his Place; and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's Table; with several Papers relating thereunto; and a Copy of an Oath, De fideli, taken by the Directors of the said Company; and of the Journal of the Proceedings of the said Directors: And the said Report, Oath . . . . . .

That Mr. Mackenzy, Secretary to the Scotch EastIndia Company, appearing before the Committee, was examined, touching the Scotch East-India Company: Who said, That the projecting the Act for that Company was in Scotland: That there had been formerly an Act procured by the Merchants there, for the Encouragement of Trade; which was an Inducement to this Act, they being very desirous to get some Trade amongst them:

That he knows not what Methods were used in procuring this Act; but has heard, That the Fees, in passing the same, did amount to about a 150 l.; nor was he concerned in this Affair until the Act was passed:

That he keeps none of the Accounts; but only takes the Minutes, as Secretary: That no Accountant was agreed on as yet: That he came to be Secretary about the Latter-end of August last; but never wrote to Ireland, or any other Country but Scotland; and that, but twice or thrice: But believes Mr. Blackwood has written thither oftener than any one:

That a Committee, which began since November last, met about once a Week, to settle the Subscriptions: For the taking of which Subscriptions, a Book was prepared; and the said Book was delivered to the Lord Belhaven, before the Sitting of this Parliament:

But, being asked, another Day, Where the said Book was? he said, He believed Mr. Blackwood had it delivered to him about the Sixth of December, and had carried it into Scotland; for that they all agreed he should have it: However, he delivered into the Committee a Copy of the said Book of Subscriptions: The last Day of Subscriptions was about the 14th or 15th of November.

That at their Meetings there used to appear Mr. Merry, Abraham Wilmer, and others: That the Subscription-Money was paid to the Persons named in the Act; viz. Mr. James Fowlis, Mr. Chiesly, Mr. Patterson, and others; or any Two of them:

That an Oath, or Declaration, De fideli administratione, was taken by the Directors of the Company (fn. 1) [which was given by the Lord Belhaven]: A Copy of which Oath was delivered in to the Committee.

Mr. Patterson, being examined, said, That, about the Beginning of May, Mr. Chiesly did acquaint him, That there was great Encouragement given for an East-India Company in Scotland; upon which, he gave Mr. Chiesly a Scheme for erecting the same; but That was not entirely followed: And that Mr. Cootes, and Mr. Chiesly carried the Scheme into Scotland:

That he proposed to be at 50 l. Charge, and 8 or 9 other Persons agreed to advance 25 l. apiece, to carry it on: That the Subscribers were 200; and the Sum intended, being 300,000 l. was subscribed: And that he was to have 2 per Cent. Stock, and 3 per Cent. of the Profits for the Space of 21 Years, for his great Service; which he hath since, out of his mere Generosity, released; but has still such Security as will oblige the Subscribers to be kind to him: That he did not solicit for this Act, nor knows any thing of the Methods of its Passing; but has heard Mr. Chiesly and Mr. Blackwood say, They had solicited for such an Act formerly: And said, He was induced to be concerned in this Matter, because there was no Encouragement for this Trade here:

That the Books of Subscriptions, and other Papers were delivered to the Lord Belhaven, Mr. Blackwood, and Mr. Belfore, in order to take the Scotch Subscriptions: That as to the 75,000 l. being the 4th Part of the Subscriptions, which was to be paid down, he did hear Mr. Bateman name the Exchequer, to lodge it in; and Mr. Bateman said, Mr. Burton would take it:

That, at the Committee for these Subscriptions, there came some that were Friends to the Bank of England, some for the Orphans Bank and some for the Goldsmiths; who made several Propositions for their Friends, or Parties:

That it was resolved a Ship or Ships should be sent from Scotland; and that there was a Ship at Scotland then provided, of 3 or 400 Tons Burden; but he knows nothing how the said Ship was to be convoyed, nor where the Cargo was to be bought:

Knows of no Persons whose Names were in Trust, except Mr. Paterson his Name-sake; who was in Trust for him: That Mr. Fowlis had the Custody of the Notes for Money; and some of the Money was paid to Sir Stephen Evans and Mr. Sheppard:

And said, That he did not reckon himself obliged, by the Oath De fideli administratione, to conceal any thing from the Committee.

Mr. Bateman owned, That he had subscribed 2,000 l. to the said Company; and that he was one of the Directors, till he heard the Parliament had taken it into Examination; and then he resolved to act no longer: That he had given his Note for the Fourth Part of his Subscription, payable to Mr. Fowlis; and that he had not taken up his Note, nor transferred (fn. 2) [his Right]: That he had been present at several Debates about sending out Ships; but it was not thought convenient to send any one till the Subscriptions were taken in Scotland; and that no Order was made for sending out any Ships: Yet it appears by the Minute book, That Mr. Bateman was present at a Committee, wherein it was resolved to send out a Ship from Scotland to the East-Indies: That he designed the Fourth Part of the Subscriptions paid in should have been lodged in the Exchequer.

And, being asked several other Questions, gave contradictory Answers, to the Dissatisfaction of the Committee.

Mr. Glover being examined, confessed, That he had subscribed to the Scotch East-India Company; and upon this Reason, That he thought it better that an Englishman should have the Benefit of it than a Foreigner: That he subscribed 2,000 l.; and his Share, to be paid down, was 500 l.; for which he gave a Note, payable to Mr. Foulis:

But said, He never advised upon the Scheme; nor did know of any thing given for the obtaining the Act: And begged the Committee's Pardon, if he had done any thing that was amiss.

Mr. Lancashire, being examined, said, That he was a Member of the English East-India Company, and of the Scotch East-India Company; and subscribed 3,000 l. to the Scotch; and gave a Note for one Fourth Part to Mr. Foulis and Mr. Chiesly, dated 8 November:

That it was proposed to send out a Ship, as an Interloper; but he refused to consent to it, saying, It was against his Oath to the English East-India Company: And further, That, if the Ship was lost, the Scotts might refuse to bear their Parts:

That he conceived the 75,000 l. was to have been lodged in the Bank of England; but Mr. Bateman proposed no Place: That he took it, That Mr. Patterson was to have the best Part of the Premium of Two per Cent. Stock, and Three per Cent. Profit; and he thought the Premium too much: But he was told, That, if he did not subscribe quickly, the Bank of England would come in and subscribe.

Mr. Docminique said, He had subscribed to the Scotch East-India Company; and was a Director, and did subscribe the Declaration: But he knows nothing how the Act was procured; nor what the Meaning of the Two per Cent. was: But was told, That if he did not subscribe, there were others that would: Upon which he did subscribe; and was told the Two and Three per Cent. should be discharged:

That the Resolution of the Committee was, That no Ships for the present should be sent; but, when that Resolution was reported, it was disagreed to: That he believes the 75,000 l. was to have been paid into the Bank of England.

Mr. Wilmore believes he did subscribe the Oath De fideli administratione: But knows nothing of procuring the Act: That he believes the 2 and 3 per Cent. was for Mr. Patterson: And that the 75,000 l. was to be lodged in the Bank of England.

And that the Committee had sent a Summons for the Lord Belhaven; but the Messenger was informed, at my Lord's House, That his Lordship was gone into Scotland.

Scotch East India Company.

We, whose Names are hereunto subscribed, do severally, in the Presence of Almighty God, and this Company, declare and promise, That, during our being jointly, or severally concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies, we shall not disclose any thing that, from time to time, shall, by the President of the Court, be given us in Charge to be kept secret; but shall, in our respective Stations, endeavour, to the utmost of our Power, to promote the Profit and Interest of the said Company.

This is a true Copy of the Declaration De fideli.

Rod. Mackenzie.

London, the 29th Day of August 1695.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Resolved, That all Persons who are desirous to be incorporated into this Company, do give their Names, together with the respective Sums for which they are willing to subscribe, in Writing, to Roderick Mackenzie; who is to keep a fair List thereof.

Resolved, That the said Roderick Mackenzie do not discover the said Names, or Sums, or any Part thereof, to any Person or Persons whatsoever, without special Direction of at least the Majority of the Members now assembled.

Resolved, That a Sum be raised for defraying all necessary Charges, till the Constitutions of the Company be settled.

Agreed, That the Sum to be raised, at present, be 25 l. each Member.

Agreed, That the said Sums be paid Mr. James Foulis; for which he is to give Receipts respectively.

Ordered, That Mr. James Foulis pay 20 l. to Roderick Mackenzie for disbursing little petty Expences; of which he is to keep a particular Account.

Adjourned to Thursday the 12th of September, Three a Clock.

Adjourned further to the 26th of September, Three a Clock.

London, the 26 of September 1695.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Whereas, upon Information, it appears, That some Enemies to this Company do industriously spread abroad Surmises, as if some of the Persons concerned in this Company did openly speak reproachfully and contemptibly of the Power of the Government and People of England, in relation to this Company;

Ordered, That the Members of this Company do, upon all Occasions, speak with due Respect of the Power of the Government and People of England; and that they endeavour, with all imaginable Candour, to obviate and satisfy the Objections of any Person or Persons, without Heat or Reflection.

Ordered, That Roderick Mackenzie do signify the Contents of this Resolution to the absent Members.

Adjourned to Tuesday the 15th of October, Three a Clock.

Adjourned further to the 22d Instant.

London, the 22d Day of October 1695.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Scotch East India Company.

Memorandum, That all the Persons here present have severally engaged their Words, each to other, That all Discourses and Transactions passed here, relating to the Company, shall be inviolably kept secret from all other Persons whatsoever.

Resolved, That all Matters, relating to this Company, be so concerted, as to begin to take Subscriptions, and receive one Quarter-Part of the respective Sums subscribed for, on the 6th Day of November next ensuing.

Resolved, That the joint Stock, or capital Fund, of this Company, do consist of Six hundred thousand Pounds Sterling.

Adjourned to Thursday the 24th Instant, Three a Clock in the Afternoon.

London, the 24th of October 1695.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Resolved, That the Government of the said Company shall be in a Court of Directors, consisting of the Persons named in the Act of Parliament, and Thirty other Proprietors of the respective Sums of One thousand Pounds, or more, in the joint Stock of the said Company; and who shall also be deputed, in Writing, by other Proprietors of Sums amounting to 20,000 l. including such Directors own Share.

Ordered, That Mr. Mackenzie do make a fair Alphabet of all the Names of such Persons as have given Notes, desiring to be concerned in the said Company, together with their respective Sums.

Adjourned till the 29th Instant, Three a Clock.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

London, 29th October 1695.

Present,

Upon reading over the List, and finding the Sums desired amounting to a greater Sum than the capital Stock agreed on;

Ordered, That Mr. Mackenzie do make another Column against all the Names contained in the said List; and that, upon a further Examination of the List, the Sums allotted to each Pretender be written in the other Column.

Adjourned to the 2d of November, Nine a Clock.

London, the 2d of November 1695.

At a Meeting of the Gentlemen concerned in the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Agreed, That all Subscribers be obliged to pay One Quarter-Part of the Sums subscribed for, at the Time of Subscription.

Ordered, That the Preamble agreed upon be ingrossed fair in a Book fit for Subscriptions.

Resolved, To meet henceforth, de die in diem, at Mr. Carpenter's in Clement's-Lane.

Agreed, That the Subscription-money be paid unto Mr. Patterson and Mr. Foulis, at Sir Stephen Evans' House; or where else it may be thought convenient.

London, the 9th Day of November 1695.

At a Meeting of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa and the Indies.

Present,

The Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

Resolved, That it is hereby declared, and understood, That Mr. James Smith, Merchant in London, now present, is and was the Person understood by the Name of John Smith in the said Act of Parliament: And likewise, That Mr. Joseph Cohen D'Azevedo, also of London, Merchant, is and was the Person understood therein by the Name of Joseph Cohaine Daves Ovedo; and shall hereafter be deemed and taken for the same Persons, as if their respective Names had been rightly and properly expressed in the said Act of Parliament.

Agreed, That Roderick Mackenzie do officiate as Secretary at present.

Upon some Objections, offered against the Greatness of the capital Fund designed; and the Company being fully satisfied with the Reasons and Answers given for the same;

Resolved, That Mr. Paterson do draw the Reasons now mentioned, for having the Stock to consist of 600,000 l. in Writing; and that the same be transmitted to Scotland.

Resolved, That the Journals of this Company be copied, and transmitted in like manner.

Agreed, That the Majority of the Persons now present shall, at all times hereafter, be a Quorum; and may act in all Affairs relating to this Company, to all Intents and Purposes as if all were present; providing, that absent Members have previous Notice of the several Times of Meeting, and Adjournments, of this Company.

Upon reading over, and examining, all the Journals of the Nine Gentlemen at London, named in the said Act of Parliament, preceding this Day; all of them are hereby declared, and confirmed, to be the Sense of the Company now present, excepting the Resolution of the 24 of October last, concerning the Court of Directors; which is to be further considered of.

Adjourned to Monday the 11th Instant, Six a Clock at Night, at Mr. Carpenter's House, in Clement's-lane, Lombard-street.

At a Meeting of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

London, the 11th Day of November 1695.

Present,

Upon reading over the Minutes of the last Meeting, the same were approved of, and confirmed.

Several Debates arising, concerning the Management, and Constitutions, of the Company, the same are adjourned to Wednesday Night, Six a Clock, at the same House; and to a further Adjournment, in order to conclude all Matters now under Consideration, on Thursday next, Six a Clock, at Mr.Carpenter's House, in Clement's-lane.

London, the 14th of November 1695.

At a Meeting of the Company, &c.

Present,

Upon a Motion suggested, That some of the Persons, living in Scotland, named in the Act of Parliament, might possibly, from a Sense of Self-denial, or Modesty, &c. decline being (fn. 3) [continued] Directors of the said Company, pursuant to the Preamble of Subscriptions;

Resolved, That, notwithstanding such Preamble, it shall be an Article in the Instructions to be sent to Scotland, or in the particular Constitutions of the Company, That the Subscribers in Scotland may, for once only, before the 1st of September next, appoint an equal Number in Scotland, in the respective Places of those living there, named in the said Act of Parliament.

Adjourned to the 15th Instant (fn. 4) [Five a Clock], eodem loco.

London, the 15th of November 1695.

At a Meeting of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

There having been several Objections made, by the Persons deputed from Scotland, against the Preamble to the Subscriptions in England; and having fully discoursed Mr. Paterson thereupon;

Agreed, That Mr. Paterson hath fully answered and satisfied the said Persons.

Ordered, That the said Preamble be read over at the next Meeting, on Monday next, in order to be confirmed.

Adjourned to Monday the 18 Instant, Nine a Clock.

At a Meeting of the said Company.

London, the 18th of Nov. 1695.

Present,

According to Order of the last Meeting, the Preamble to Subscriptions being read over;

Agreed, Nemine contradicente, That the said Preamble is hereby confirmed.

Adjourned to Five a Clock this Evening.

London, the 18th Day of Novem. 1695.

At a Meeting of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Upon reading over the Minutes of the last Meeting;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

Pursuant to the Preamble of the Book of Subscriptions, Colonel Robert Lancashire producing Deputations, in Writing, from Proprietors in the joint Stock of this Company, amounting to 20,000 l. he took his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company, accordingly.

Scotch East India Company.

Mr. William Sheppard, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Adjourned to Wednesday the 20th Nov. Instant, Six a Clock.

London, the 20th Day of Nov. 1695.

At a Meeting of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Mr. Paterson chosen Chairman.

Upon reading over the Minutes of the last Meeting;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

Pursuant to the Preamble of the Book of Subscriptions, Mr. James Bateman producing Deputations in Writing, from Proprietors in the joint Stock of this Company, amounting to 20,000 l. he took his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company, accordingly.

Mr. Robert Williamson, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Mr. Thomas Skinner, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Mr. Abraham Wilmer, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Ordered, That an Entry be made in a particular Book, for that Purpose, of all the Deputations given by the several Proprietors of the joint Stock of this Company, to the respective Directors appointed by them; and that the original Deputations be preserved apart.

Ordered, That no Person be admitted to peruse the Books or Lists of this Company, other than such as are Directors.

Ordered, That no Copy or List be given out, to any Person whatsoever, of the Subscribers Names, without special Direction from the Board.

Resolved, That a Committee of Treasury be appointed, to examine all the Notes of the several Subscribers in this Company; and to issue out such of them as they think fit, in order to have the Money called in.

Resolved, That the said Committee consist of the several Persons after-named; whereof any Four shall be a Quorum; viz.

William Paterson, James Bateman, James Foulis, Robert Lancashire, James Cheislie, Abr. Wilmer, Wm. Sheppard.

Ordered, That the said Committee take care to give Directions for providing all manner of necessary Books for the Use of this Company.

Ordered, That the said Committee do meet on Friday Morning next, Nine a Clock.

Adjourned to Friday the 22d of November Instant, Six a Clock at Night, precisely.

London, the 22d of November 1695.

At a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Mr. Paterson Chairman.

Scotch East India Company.

Upon reading over the Minutes of the last Court;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

Pursuant to the Preamble of the Book of Subscriptions, Paul Dockminique Esquire, producing Deputations, in Writing, from Proprietors in the Joint Stock of this Company, amounting to 20,000 l. took his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company, accordingly.

Mr. Robert Douglas, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Ordered, That all such (fn. 5) [Persons] as have subscribed any Sum or Sums in this Company, and who desire to withdraw the respective Notes, which they have given, in Payment of the First Fourth Part of such their Subscriptions, be obliged to execute irrevocable Letters of Attorney to Roderick Mackenzie, for transferring the several Sums subscribed by them, as aforesaid, to Mr. James Foulis.

Ordered, That the Notes of such Subscribers as do execute such Letters of Attorney, in manner aforesaid, be re-delivered to them by Mr. Foulis.

The Book of Subscriptions being examined; and finding that the complete Sum of 300,000 l. is subscribed therein;

Ordered, That the said Book be closed.

Which was done accordingly.

Pursuant to an Order of Court of the 20th November Instant, the Committee of Treasury, therein named, met this Day in the Forenoon; and a Report being made of their Proceedings at that time, the same were approved of, and confirmed, by this Court.

Ordered, That the Proceedings of That, and all other Committees of this Court, be entered in a distinct Book, to be kept for that Purpose.

Adjourned to Monday next, the 25th of November Instant, Six a Clock at Night.

London, the 25th of November 1695.

By a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

The Minutes of the last Court being read over;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

Pursuant to the Preamble of the Book of Subscriptions, Mr. Anthony Merry, producing Deputations, in Writing, from Proprietors of the joint Stock of this Company, for Sums amounting to 20,000 l. took his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company, accordingly.

Mr. Daniel Van Mildert, producing Deputations in like manner, took also his Place at the Board, as a Director of the said Company.

Pursuant to an Order of the Court, the 20th of November Instant, it is hereby further.

Ordered, That the Committee of Treasury, therein named, do meet as often as they shall see Cause; and call in such further Payments of the Subscriptions as they shall think fit; to be lodged in the Hands of Sir Stephen Evans and Mr. Sheppard.

Ordered, That Mr. Docminique, Mr. Douglas, and Mr. Stewart, do inquire, and inform themselves, concerning a fit and convenient Place for the Company to meet in; and report their Opinion accordingly at the next Court.

Adjourned to Wednesday the 27th of November Instant, Four a Clock.

London, the 27th of November 1695.

At a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

The Minutes of the last Court being read over;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

A Report being made, from the Committee of Treasury, of their further Proceedings of the 26th of Novem. Instant, in all Matters to them committed; the same were approved of by the Court, and ordered to be entered in the Committee-Book.

Ordered, That the said Committee do, from time to time, report to this Court such further Steps as they shall make in the Matters to them committed.

Upon a Motion made, That all the Directors, Officers, and Servants, of this Company, should take an Oath De fideli administratione, enjoined by the Act of Parliament;

And a Form thereof being offered to the Court;

Ordered, That the said Form do lie upon the Table, to be considered of, till next Meeting.

Upon a Motion made, of sending some Ship or Ships with all Expedition to the East-Indies, to secure a Settlement for this Company;

Ordered, That the said Motion be taken into Consideration on Friday next.

Upon a Proposal made, for improving such Part of the joint Stock of this Company, as shall not be applied to the immediate Service thereof, by lending such Sum or Sums, at considerable Interest, and upon unquestionable Security for Repayment of any Sum or Sums, so lent, in Two Days time after Notice given;

Ordered, That the said Proposal be taken into Consideration on Monday next.

Adjourned to Friday 29th November Instant, Three a Clock in the Afternoon.

London, the 29th of Novem 1695.

At a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

The Minutes of the last Court being read over;

Agreed, That the same are hereby confirmed.

Pursuant to an Order of the last Court, the Form of an Oath De fideli, or Declaration, therein mentioned, was taken into Consideration, and approved of, by the Court.

Ordered, That all Directors of this Company do sign the said Declaration, or Oath, De fideli.

Which was done accordingly by all the Directors then present.

Ordered, That another Form of an Oath be prepared, and agreed upon, to be taken by all the Officers and Servants of this Company.

Ordered, That the Committee of Treasury, formerly appointed, and such others of this Court as please to join with them, do prepare and report such Rules, as they shall think fit to be observed by this Court.

Pursuant to an Order of the last Court, for taking into Consideration the Motion, concerning the sending of a Ship, or Ships, with Expedition, to the EastIndies.

Ordered, That the Consideration thereof be referred to a Committee of Trade, consisting of the Nine Persons after-named; viz. Paul Docminique, Anthony Merry, Robert Douglas, James Bateman, James Foulis, Thomas Skinner, Abra. Wilmer, William Paterson, Robert Lancashire; whereof any Five to be a Quorum.

Ordered, That the said Committee do meet on Monday next, at Four a Clock; and that such others of this Court as have a mind, may be present, but have no Votes; and that they adjourn themselves from time to time, as they shall see Cause; and report their Proceedings to this Court, accordingly.

Pursuant to an Order of the last Court, for taking into Consideration the Proposal made, for improving such Part of the joint Stock of this Company, as shall not be applied to the immediate Service thereof, by lending the same, at considerable Interest, and upon unquestionable Security for Repayment of any Sum, so lent, in Two Days time after Notice given;

Ordered, That the Consideration of the said Proposal be also referred to the said Committee of Trade; who are to report their Opinion therein to this Court.

Mr. Paterson having declared, That it was not any Doubt of the Justice and Generosity of this Company, nor of his own Usefulness therein, but the Ingratitude he hath met with from others; together with his own and other Mens Expence, of near Ten thousand Pounds; besides Ten Years Pains and Travel, Six whereof were wholly spent in promoting the Design of this Company; which had induced him to insist upon the Two per Cent. in Hand, and Three per Cent. of the Profits of the Fund of this Company, for One-and-twenty Years, in the Preamble of Subscriptions: But now, having the Satisfaction of seeing himself vested with a legal and indisputable Right thereto; and this Court being filled with so many excellent Persons, in whose Justice and Gratitude he hath entire Confidence; he resolves to take hold of so glorious an Opportunity, of shewing the Generosity (fn. 6) [and Integrity] of his Heart: Wherefore, he freely and fully renounceth and resigneth the Two per Cent. and Three per Cent. mentioned in the said Preamble of Subscription, back again to the Company, from whom he had so brave and noble a Concession: And, as it is no small Satisfaction to him, to have such Honour and Respect, from so worthy and reputable a Company; so it is infinitely more, to find this Opportunity of making something of a suitable Return: Pursuant to which, he hath executed an Act and Deed, under his Hand and Seal, of the Date hereof.

Upon which, it was agreed, Nemine contradicente, That Mr. Paterson have the Thanks of this Court, for such his generous Declaration and Surrender:

Which was done accordingly.

Adjourned to Wednesday, the 4th Day of December next, Three a Clock post Meridiem.

London, the 4th Day of December 1695.

At a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Scotch East India Company.

Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

The Minutes of the last Court were read, and confirmed.

Pursuant to an Order of Court, of the 29th of November last, the Committee of Trade, therein appointed, having reported their Proceedings in the Matters to them committed;

And the same being re-debated at this Court;

Resolved, That one or more Ship or Ships be fitted out for the East-Indies, from Scotland, with all convenient Speed; and that the Consideration of the Measures to be pursued, in order to this Resolution, be referred to the Consideration of the said Committee of Trade.

Resolved, That all necessary Directions be given, forthwith, for carrying on the Subscriptions in Scotland; and that, in order thereunto, a Preamble of such Subscriptions be prepared by the Lord Beilhaven, Robert Blackwood, and James Balfour; who are to lay the same before the Committee of Trade, at their next Meeting, in order to be approved of thereafter by this Court.

Ordered, That the Committee of Trade do think of such Rules as may be thought convenient to be observed by all the Members of this Court, in order to the punctual Meeting of the said Court, and the several Committees appointed or to be appointed by it; together with such Penalties, as may be thought fit to be inflicted, for the Non-observance of such Rules; and report their Opinion, concerning the Premises, to this Court, accordingly.

The Proceedings of this Court were given in Charge, by the Chairman, to be kept secret.

The Committee of Trade ordered to meet on Friday next, Nine a Clock.

And this Court is adjourned to the same Day, at Three a Clock.

London, the 6th Day of December 1695.

At a Court of Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies.

Present,

Lord Beilhaven Chairman.

The Minutes of the last Court were read, and confirmed.

Pursuant to an Order of the last Court, of the 4 of December Instant, the Lord Beilhaven, Robert Blackwood, and James Balfour, having prepared a Draught of such Preamble, as, they were of Opinion, might be agreeable to the Subscribers in Scotland; which, being considered by the Committee of Trade, according to Order, was by them reported to this Court;

Which being now read;

Ordered, That the said Preamble be written fair, and perused by such Members of this Court as shall please to consider of the same, in order to be confirmed at the next Court of Directors.

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to prepare the Constitutions, Ordinances, and By-laws, of this Company.

Ordered, That the said Committee do consist of the Seven Persons after-named; viz. William Paterson, Robert Blackwood, David Nairne, James Foulis, Paul Docminique, Thomas Skinner, Robert Lancashire; whereof any Four to be a Quorum.

Scotch East India Company.

Ordered, That each Member of such Committee do bring his Thoughts, in Writing, concerning the said Constitutions; and that the said Committee do meet on Friday next, the 10th of this Instant Dec. Ten a Clock.

Pursuant to a subsequent Order of the said Court, the 4th of Decem. instant, the Committee, therein appointed, for preparing Rules to be observed by all the Directors, in order to the punctual Meeting of this Court, at such Times as shall be by them, from time to time, appointed; the said Committee having reported their Opinion therein;

It is Ordered, That every Director of this Court do deposit 20s. in the Hands of Rod. Mackenzie.

Ordered, That every Director of this Court, having due Notice of the Times of Meeting, and not giving his Attendance accordingly, within an Hour of the Time appointed, shall, for every such Default, forfeit One Half-crown of his said 20s. to be equally distributed among such Directors, as shall be present at the said several Courts.

Agreed, That all the Members of this Court be concluded, as to the Hours of Meeting, by the Pendulumclock that stands in this Room.

Ordered, That the said Committee for preparing the Constitutions do meet again on Friday next, Nine a Clock ante meridiem.

Adjourned to Friday, the 13th of December Instant, at Three a Clock post meridiem.

This is a true Copy.

Rod. Mackenzie.

At London, the Sixth Day of November 1695.

Pursuant to an Act of Parliament, of the Kingdom of Scotland, intituled, An Act for a Company trading to Africa, and the Indies: We, under-subscribed, do each of us, for himself, and not one for another, become obliged for the Payment of the respective Sums by us severally subscribed; subject to the following Rules and Conditions; viz.

That the joint Stock, or capital Fund, of the said Company, do consist of Six hundred thousand Pounds Sterling; whereof, one Quarter-part shall be paid at the Time of Subscription, to Two or more of the Persons named in the said Act of Parliament; and the Remainder thereof, in such Parts and Proportions, Time and Manner, as the said Company shall, from time to time, direct and appoint.

That, if any of the Subscribers, or Proprietors, of the said Stock, or capital Fund, shall not pay, or cause to be paid, the remaining Part of his, her, or their, Subscriptions, in such Time, Manner, and Proportions, as shall be, from time to time, appointed by the said Company; or in case they, or any of them, shall become indebted to the said Company any otherways howsoever; the Part or Share of Stock, in the said Fund, belonging to such Person or Persons, shall, from thenceforward, be and remain to the Use of the said Company, to be by them sold and disposed of, for paying and satisfying such Debt, so become due unto them.

That, in regard Mr. William Paterson, and others concerned with him, have been at great Pains and Expence, in making several considerable Discoveries of Trade, and Improvements, in and to both Indies; and likewise in procuring needful Powers and Privileges, for a Company of Commerce, from several sovereign Princes, and States; which he and they have contrived, suited, and designed for the said Company: In Consideration whereof, it is hereby agreed, That the said William Paterson, his Executors, Administrators, or Assigns, shall, out of the first Payment, have and receive Two per Cent. of the Money to be subscribed in the said Capital Fund, as also Three per Cent. of the Issues, Profits, and Product of the said Fund, for the Space of One-and-twenty Years; which shall be redeemable for Two per Cent. more of the said Capital Fund, any time in 5 Years.

That the Government, Management, Power, and Disposition of the said joint Stock, or capital Fund, and other Matters, Things, and Effects whatsoever, of or belonging to the said Company, shall, in all times hereafter, be and remain in a Court of Directors, consisting of the Persons named in the said Act of Parliament, together with such others as shall be Proprietors of the respective Sums of One thousand Pounds Sterling, or more, in the said joint Stock, or Fund, and who shall likewise be deputed, in Writing by such other Proprietors therein, as, including such 1,000 l. Sterling, or more, shall complete the Sum of Twenty thousand Pounds Sterling thereof; provided, That none be admitted to depute more than one Person, for one and the same Sum, or Proportion of his Stock: And, in case the full Number of 15 Persons be not deputed by the Stock, in One Month after One Moiety thereof shall be subscribed; or if the full Number of Thirty Persons be not so deputed, in One Month after the Whole shall be subscribed; in either of the said Cases, the Court of Directors, for the Time, may, by Majority of Votes, signified by Scroll and Scrutiny, complete the said Numbers, or either of them.

And it is hereby declared, and understood, That the Persons named in the Act of Parliament, or the Survivors of them, are, were, and ought to be, a complete Court, until others be added unto them, in manner aforesaid: And that the Manner of completing the Number, and continuing the Succession, of such Fifty Directors, appointing the Times and Places of Meeting, the Quorum of Persons, the Constituting and Impowering of Committees, and Sub-Committees of their own Number, fixing of Servants, settling of Fees and Salaries, and all other Matters and Things relating to the said Company, shall be ordered, fixed, and settled, in the Constitutions to be made by the said Court of Directors; and that every Director or Member of the said Court, and all others concerned in the said Company, be concluded by, and subject unto, such Elections, Successions, Scrutinies, Censures, Deprivations, Disabilities, Ordinances, and Rules, as shall be made and contained in such Constitutions.

And that the said joint Stock, and capital Fund, shall be, remain, and continue, subject unto all such further and other Rules, Conditions, and Qualifications, and to be used, governed, ordered, and disposed of, as the said Company shall, from time to time, direct and appoint.

This is a true Copy.

Rod. Mackenzie.

Renunciation and Release.

Whereas, by the Preamble of Subscription to the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies, I, William Paterson, of the Parish of St. Giles in the Fields, and County of Middlesex, Esquire, my Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, were to have and receive Two per Cent. of the Sum of Six hundred thousand Pounds, to be subscribed, and Three per Cent. of the Profits of the said Fund, for One-and-twenty Years; or Two per Cent. more, of the Sum subscribed, some time in Five Years, in lieu thereof: Now, know ye, by these Presents, That I, the said William Paterson, for divers good Causes and Considerations me thereunto moving, do, for me, my Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, remise, release, acquit, discharge, and quit Claim unto, the said Company, and all and every the Subscribers thereunto, their Heirs, Executors, Administrators, and Assigns, all and every Part of the said Two per Cent. of the Fund, and Three per Cent. of the Profits, mentioned in the said Preamble of Subscription. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this Twenty-ninth Day of November 1695.

Sic subscribitur,

Sealed and delivered (the Paper being first stamped) according to Act of Parliament; in the Presence of
Sic subscribitur,
Henry Ayle,
Joseph Boys,
Rod. Mackenzie.

Wm. Paterson.

This is a true Copy.

Rod. Mackenzie.

Also the Petition of the Governor and Company of Merchants of London trading into the East-Indies, which was presented to the House Yesterday, and laid on the Table, was read.

Royal Assent to Bills.

A Message from his Majesty, by Sir Fleetwood Sheppard, Gentleman-Usher of the Black Rod:

Mr. Speaker,

The King commands this House to attend his Majesty in the House of Peers, immediately.

Accordingly, Mr. Speaker, with the House, went up to attend his Majesty.

And, being returned;

Mr. Speaker reported, That his Majesty had been pleased to give the Royal Assent to Four publick, and Six private, Bills following; viz.

An Act for enlarging the Times to come in, and purchase certain Annuities therein mentioned; and for continuing the Duties formerly charged on low Wines, or Spirits, of the first Extraction; for carrying on the War against France.

An Act for Regulating of Tryals in Cases of Treason, and Misprision of Treason.

An Act for remedying the ill State of the Coin of this Kingdom.

An Act for preventing Charge and Expence in Elections of Members to serve in Parliament.

An Act for enabling Sir Thomas Parkins Baronet to sell certain Messuages, Lands, and Hereditaments, in Huby and Easingwould, in the County of York; and for settling other Lands and Hereditaments, of greater Value, in lieu thereof.

An Act to enable Sir Thomas Pope Blount Baronet to make a Settlement upon the Marriage of his eldest Son.

An Act, for vesting the Manor of Madely, in the County of Salop, in Trustees, for certain Purposes therein mentioned.

An Act for enabling the Lady Katherine Fane to sell the Reversion of certain Fee-farm Rents, given to her by her Grandfather John Bence Esquire.

An Act for enabling Thomas Stoner Esquire, Son and Heir of John Stoner Esquire, deceased, to make a Jointure and Settlement of his Estate in Marriage, notwithstanding his Minority.

An Act for vesting several Messuages and Lands, belonging to Samuel Powell Esquire, in Trustees, for Payment of his Debts.

Scotch E. I. Company.

Resolved, That the Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies, administring and taking, here, in this Kingdom, an Oath De fideli, is a High Crime and Misdemeanor.

Resolved, That the Directors of the Company of Scotland trading to Africa, and the Indies, under Colour of a Scotch Act of Parliament, styling themselves a Company, and acting as such, and raising Monies in this Kingdom for carrying on the said Company, are guilty of a High Crime and Misdemeanor.

Lord Beilhaven, &c. impeached.

Resolved, That the Lord Beilhaven be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That William Paterson be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That David Nairne be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That James Smith be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That James Oheisly be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Robert Lancashire be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That William Sheppard be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Robert Blackwood be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That James Balfour be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That James Foulis be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Thomas Coutts be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Abraham Wilmer be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Daniel Van Mildert be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Robert Williamson be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Anthony Merry be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Paul Docminique be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Robert Douglas be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Thomas Skinner be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Hugh Fraser be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That James Bateman be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Walter Stewart be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Joseph Cohen D' Azevedo be impeached of the said High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to prepare Impeachments against the said Persons:

And it is referred to Colonel Granvill, Sir Chr. Musgrove, Sir John Bolles, Mr. Chancellor of Exchequer, Sir Tho. Littleton, Mr. Solicitor-General, Sir Fra. Winington, Mr. Brotherton, Sir Wm. Williams, Mr. Manley, Mr. Harley, Sir Walt. Yonge, Sir Edw. Seymour, Mr. Attorney-General, Mr. Chadwicke, Sir Math. Andrews, Mr. Norris, Serjeant Coward, Mr. Dolben, Mr. Price, Mr. Bethell, Mr. St. Quintin, Sir Ja. Etheridge, Sir Fra. Massam, Mr. Palmes, Mr. Sloane, Mr. Stonehouse, Sir John Banks: And they are to meet To-morrow in the Afternoon at Four a Clock, in the Speaker's Chamber: And are impowered to send for Persons, Papers, and Records.

Supply Bill; Land Tax.

Resolved, That this House will, To-morrow Morning, resolve itself into a Committee, of the whole House, to consider further of the Bill for granting to his Majesty an Aid of Four Shillings in the Pound, for One Year, for carrying on the War against France.

Bringing Plate to be coined.

Resolved, That this House will, upon Friday Morning next, resolve itself into a Committee of the whole House, to consider of the Bill to encourage the Bringing in of milled, broad, or unclipped, Monies, to be exchanged, by Commissioners in several Parts of this Realm, with the common People, for their clipped Monies; and for the encouraging of Persons to bring Plate into the Mint, to be coined.

Portsmouth Election.

Ordered, That the Report from the Committee of Privileges and Elections, touching the Election for the Borough of Portsmouth, in the County of Southampton, be made upon Friday Morning next.

Shipwrights, &c.

Ordered, That the Report from the Committee, to whom the Consideration of the Petition of the Shipwrights belonging to the Yards at Woolwich and Deptford was referred, be made To-morrow Morning.

Committees.

Ordered, That all Committees be adjourned.

And then the House adjourned till To-morrow Morning, Nine a Clock.