House of Lords Journal Volume 37: May 1787 21-24

May 1787 21-24

DIE Lunæ, 21^o Maii 1787.

Domini tam Spirituales quam Temporales præsentes fuerunt:

PRAYERS.

Bills passed by Commission.

The Lord Chancellor acquainted the House, "That His Majesty had been pleased to issue a Commission to several Lords therein named, for declaring His Royal Assent to several Acts agreed upon by both Houses of Parliament."

The House was adjourned during Pleasure.

The House was resumed.

Then Three of the Lords Commissioners, being in their Robes, and seated on a Form placed between the Throne and the Woolsack, the Lord Chancellor in the Middle, with the Archbishop of Canterbury on his Right Hand, and the Lord Sydney on his Left, commanded the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod to signify to the Commons, "The Lords Commissioners desire their immediate Attendance in this House to hear the Commission read."

Who being come, with their Speaker;

The Lord Chancellor said,

My Lords, and Gentlemen of the House of Commons,

His Majesty not thinking fit to be personally present here at this Time, has been pleased to cause a Commission to be issued under the Great Seal, and thereby given His Royal Assent to divers Acts, which have been agreed upon by both Houses of Parliament, the Titles whereof are particularly mentioned; and by the said Commission hath commanded us to declare and notify His Royal Assent to the said several Acts, in the Presence of you the Lords and Commons assembled for that Purpose; which Commission you will now hear read."

Then the said Commission was read by the Clerk, as follows; (videlicet)

GEORGE R.

George the Third, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith, and so forth: To Our right trusty and right well-beloved the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and to Our trusty and well-beloved the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses, and the Commissioners for Shires and Burghs of the House of Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, Greeting: Whereas We have seen and perfectly understood divers and sundry Acts agreed and accorded on by you Our loving Subjects the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and the Commons, in this Our present Parliament assembled, and endorsed by you, as hath been accustomed, the Titles and Names of which Acts hereafter do particularly ensue; (that is to say) "An Act for making perpetual Two Acts passed in the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Years of the Reign of His present Majesty, for restraining the Negotiation of Promissory Notes and Bills of Exchange under a limited Sum, within that Part of Great Britain called England." "An Act for making perpetual an Act made in the Twenty-third Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, intituled, "An Act for regulating the Proceedings of the Court of Justiciary and Circuit Courts in Scotland." "An Act to prevent frivolous and vexatious Suits in Ecclesiastical

Courts." "An Act to enable the East India Company to continue their Warehouses already built, and to build new Warehouses exceeding certain Dimensions, freed and discharged from the Regulations and Directions contained in an Act made in the Fourteenth Year of the Reign of His Majesty King George the Third, intituled, "An Act for the further and better Regulation of Buildings and Party Walls, and for the more effectually preventing Mischiefs by Fire within the Cities of London and Westminster and the Liberties thereof, and other the Parishes, Precincts, and Places within the Weekly Bills of Mortality, the Parishes of Saint Mary-le-bon, Paddington, Saint Pancras, and Saint Luke at Chelsea, in the County of Middlesex ; and for indemnifying, under certain Conditions, Builders and others Persons against the Penalties to which they are or may be liable for erecting Buildings within the Limits aforesaid contrary to Law." "An Act for the Encouragement of the Arts of designing and printing Linens, Cottons, Callicoes, and Muslins, by vesting the Properties thereof in the Designers, Printers, and Proprietors, for a limited Time." "An Act for re-building the Pier of Margate in the Isle of Thanet, in the County of Kent; for ascertaining, establishing, and recovering, certain Duties in Lieu of the ancient and customary Droits, for the Support and Maintenance of the said Pier; for widening, paving, repairing, cleansing, lighting, and watching, the Streets, Lanes, Highways, and Public Passages, in the Town of Margate and Parish of Saint John the Baptist, in the said Isle of Thanet; for settling the Rates of Porters, Chairmen, Carters, and Carmen, within the said Town, and for preventing Encroachments, Nuisances, and Annoyances therein." "An Act for dividing the Parish of Saint James in the City and County of Bristol and County of Gloucester ; and for building a Church and providing a Cemetery or Church-yard and Parsonage House within the new Parish." "An Act to render effectual the Purchase of a House situate in the Parish of Saint Luke Chelsea, in the County of Middlesex, to be used as an additional Workhouse for the Parish of Saint George Hanover Square, within the Liberty of the City of Westminster, and for other Purposes." "An Act for better lighting and watching the Village of Camberwell, in the County of Surrey, and certain Roads and other Places adjoining or near thereto." "An Act for varying and extending the Powers of the Company of Proprietors of the Forth and Clyde Navigation." "An Act for enabling the Magistrates and Town Council of Paisley, to improve the Navigation of the River Cart, and to make a Navigable Cut or Canal across the Turnpike Road leading from Glasgow to Greenock." "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Low Lands and Common Fens, within the Hamlet of Martin, in the Parish of Timberland, and within the Parish of Blankney, in the County of Lincoln, and for draining and preserving the Low Lands and Fens within the said Hamlet of Martin and Parish of Blankney, and within the Hamlet of Linwood, in the said Parish of Blankney." "An Act for better draining and preserving certain Lands and Grounds within the Level of Hatfield Chace and Parts adjacent, in the Counties of York, Lincoln, and Nottingham." "An Act to enlarge the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing the Road from the Burgh of Lauder, in the Shire of Berwick, to and through Kelso, in the Shire of Roxburgh, to the Marchburn." "An Act for continuing the Term and varying the Powers of an Act of the Second Year of His present Majesty, for repairing the Roads from Kipping's Cross in the County of Kent to Lamberhurst Pound and Pullen's Hill in the said County, and to Flimwell Vent in the County of Sussex; and also for repairing the Road from the TurnpikeGate at Lamberhurst Pound aforesaid, through East Lane, and by Hope Mill to the Turnpike Road at Claybill in the Parish of Goudhurst, in the County of Kent." "An Act for continuing the Term and va rying the Powers of an Act of the Eighth Year of His present Majesty, for repairing, widening, turning, and altering, the Road leading from Reading, in the County of Berks, through Henley, in the County of Oxford, and Great Marlow, Chipping Wycombe, Agmondesham, and Cheynes, in the County of Bucks, and Rickmansworth, Watford, and Saint Albans, to Hatfield in the County of Hertford, and also the Road leading out of the said Road at Marlow, over Great Marlow Bridge through Bysham to or near the Thirty Mile Stone in the Turnpike Road leading from Maidenhead to Reading." "An Act for continuing and amending Three Acts of the Thirteenth Year of King George the First, the Twenty-first Year of His late Majesty, and the Twelfth Year of His present Majesty, so far as the same relate to the Roads from a Place called Nether Trindle, near Dudley to Kingswinford, and to the further End of Brittel Lane, within the Counties of Stafford and Worcester, and for making and keeping in Repair a Road from or near to the Nether Trindle aforesaid, to Tipton Green in the said Counties." "An Act to continue the Term and alter and enlarge the Powers of several Acts made in the Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh Years of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, and the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, so far as relates to the Road leading from Glasgow to Redburn Bridge, and for altering the Course of the Road from Glasgow to Redburn Bridge, and for repairing the Road from Redburn Bridge to Bonny Water, and from thence to or near Loanhead, in the County of Stirling, there to join the Turnpike Road leading from Falkirk to Kilsyth." "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Fifth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, intituled, "An Act for amending the Road from the Pinfold in Balby, in the County of York, to Worksop in the County of Nottingham." "An Act for continuing the Term and altering and enlarging the Powers of an Act passed in the Twenty-ninth Year of His late Majesty, for repairing the Roads from Shrewsbury to Preston Brockhurst, to Shawbury, and to Shreyhill, in the County of Salop, and for repairing several other Roads in the said County." "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road from Beverley by Molscroft to Kendal House, and from Molscroft to Bainton Balk, in the County of York." An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty King George the Third, for repairing and widening the Road from Ashborne to Sudbury, and from Sudbury to Yoxhall Bridge, and from the Turnpike Road upon Hatton Moor to Tutbury, in the Counties of Derby and Stafford." "An Act for vesting Part of the settled Estates of the Right Honourable George James Earl Cholmondeley in the County of Chester, in the said Earl Cholmondeley in Fee-simple; and for settling an Estate of greater Value in the same County in Lieu thereof." "An Act for vesting certain Estates in the Counties of Bedford, Northampton, Essex, Middlesex, and Cambridge, devised by the Will of Theophilus Dillingham Esquire, deceased, in Dillingham Brampton Gurdon Dillingham Esquire and his Heirs, and for settling another Estate of greater Value in the County of Norfolk, to the same Uses, and devised Estates now stand limited." "An Act for discharging certain Manors, Messuages, Lands, Tenements, and Hereditaments, in the several Counties of Kent, Surrey, Middlesex, and Berks, Part of the Estate of Oldfield Bowles Esquire, from the Uses, Estates, and Trusts, declared concerning the same, in and by the Settlement made previous to the Marriage of the said Oldfield Bowles with Mary his now Wife, and for settling the Manor of North Aston, and other Lands and Hereditaments in the County of Oxford, of greater Value, in Lieu thereof, to the like Uses." An Act for vesting the Tythes and Estate at Orton in the County of Northampton, belonging to Jesus Hos pital in the same County, in John Peach Hungerford Esquire for his Life, with Remainders over; and for settling a Rent Charge out of the said Estate and other Hereditaments of the said John Peach Hungerford, at Orton aforesaid, in Lieu thereof." "An Act to dissolve the Marriage of the Honourable Edward Foley with the Right Honourable Lady Ann Coventry, his now Wife, and for other Purposes." An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open and Common Fields and Commonable Places in the Parish of Bitteswell, in the County of Leicester." "An Act to confirm an Agreement for dividing, enclosing, and exchanging the Lands and other Estates within the Lordship of Trowell, in the County of Nottingham, and for uniting the Two Medieties of the Rectory of the Parish Church of Trowell aforesaid." "An Act for dividing and enclosing certain Moors, Commons, or Waste Grounds, in the Parish of Kirkbymalzeard, in the County of York." "An Act for dividing, and enclosing the several Common and Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, within the Manor and Hamlet of Barrow-upon-Trent; in the Parish of Barrow-upon-Trent, in the County of Derby." "An Act for dividing and enclosing certain Open and Common Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Fens, and Waste Lands, within the Parish of Dorrington, in the County of Lincoln." "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Common Fields, Common Pastures, Common Meadows, Common Grounds and Waste Grounds, in the Parishes of Sarsden and Churchill, and Tything of Lyneham, Merriscourt, and Finescourt, in the Parish of Shipton-under-Whichwood, in the County of Oxford." "An Act for naturalizing Frederick Hippius." And albeit the said Acts by by you Our said Subjects the Lords and Commons, in this Our present Parliament assembled, are fully agreed and consented unto, yet nevertheless the same are not of Force and Effect in the Law without Our Royal Assent given and put to the said Acts; and forasmuch as for divers Causes and Considerations We cannot conveniently at this Time be present in Our Royal Person in the Higher House of Our said Parliament, being the Place accustomed to give Our Royal Assent to such Acts as have been agreed upon by you Our said Subjects the Lords and Commons, We have therefore caused these Our Letters Patent to be made, and have signed the same; and by the same do give and put Our Royal Assent to the said Acts, and to all Articles, Clauses, and Provisions therein contained, and have fully agreed and assented to the said Acts; Willing, that the said Acts and every Article, Clause, Sentence and Provision there in contained, from henceforth shall be of the same Strength, Force, and Effect, as if We had been personally present in the said Higher House, and had openly and publickly, in the Presence of you all, assented to the same: And We do by these Presents declare and notify the same Our Royal Assent as well to you the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons aforesaid, as to all others whom it may concern : Commanding also, by these Presents, Our right trusty and well-beloved Counsellor Edward Lord Thurlow, Our Chancellor of Great Britain, to seal these Our Letters Patent with Our Great Seal of Great Britain ; And also, commanding Our most dear Son and Our faithful Counsellor George Prince of Wales ; the Most Reverend Father in God Our right trusty and well-beloved Counsellor John Archbishop of Canterbury, Primate and Metropolitan of all England; Our said Chancellor of Great Britain; Our right trusty and right wellbeloved Cousin and Counsellor Charles Earl Camden, President of Our Council; Our right trusty and entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellor Granville Marquis of Stafford, Keeper of Our Privy Seal; Our right trusty and right entirely beloved Cousin and Counsellors James Duke of Chandos, Steward of Our Household; Charles Duke of Richmond; George Duke of Montagu, Master of Our Horse; Our right trusty and right well-beloved Cousins and Counsellors James Earl of Salisbury, Chamberlain of Our Household ; Hen ry Earl Bathurst; William Earl of Mansfield, Our Chief Justice assigned to hold Pleas before Us; Our right trusty and well-beloved Cousins and Counsellors Thomas Viscount Weymouth; Groom of our Stole; Richard Viscount Howe, First Commissioner of Our Admiralty; and Our right trusty and well-beloved Counsellors Francis Lord Osborne, One of Our principal Secretaries of State, and Thomas Lord Sydney, One other of Our Principal Secretaries of State, or any Three or more of them, to declare and notify this Our Royal Assent in Our Absence in the said Higher House, in the Presence of you, the said Lords and the Commons of Our Parliament, there to be assembled for that Purpose, and the Clerk of Our Parliaments to endorse the said Acts, with such Terms and Words, in Our Name, as is requisite, and hath been accustomed for the same; and also to enroll these Our Letters Patent, and the said Acts in the Parliament Roll, and these Our Letters Patent shall be to every of them a sufficient Warrant in that Behalf: And finally, We do declare and will, that after this Our Royal Assent given and passed by these Presents, and declared and notified as is aforesaid, then and immediately the said Acts shall be taken, accepted, and admitted good, sufficient, and perfect Acts of Parliament and Laws to all Intents, Constructions, and Purposes, and to be put in due Execution accordingly; the Continuance or Dissolution of this Our Parliament, or any other Use, Custom, Thing, or Things to the contrary thereof notwithstanding: In Witness whereof, We have caused these Our Letters to be made Patent.

Witness Ourself at Westminster, the Twenty-First Day of May, in the Twenty-seventh Year of Our Reign.

By the King Himself, signed with his own Hand.

"Yorke."

Then the Lord Chancellor said,

In Obedience to His Majesty's Commands, and by Virtue of the Commission which has been now read, we do declare and notify to you, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons, in Parliament assembled, That His Majesty hath given His Royal Assent to the several Acts in the Commission mentioned; and the Clerks are required to pass the same in the usual Form and Words."

1."An Act for making perpetual Two Acts passed in the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Years of the Reign of His present Majesty, for restraining the Negotiation of Promissory Notes and Bills of Exchange, under a limited Sum, within that Part of Great Britain called England."

2. "An Act for making perpetual an Act made in the Twenty-third Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, intituled, "An Act for regulating the Proceedings of the Court of Justiciary, and Circuit Courts in Scotland."

3. "An Act to prevent frivolous and vexatious Suits in Ecclesiastical Courts."

4. "An Act to enable the East India Company to continue their Warehouses already built, and to build new Warehouses exceeding certain Dimensions freed and discharged from the Regulations and Directions contained in an Act made in the Fourteenth Year of the Reign of His Majesty King George the Third, intituled, "An Act for the further and better Regulation of Buildings and Party-Walls, and for the more effectually preventing Mischiefs by Fire, within the Cities of London and Westminster and the Liberties thereof, and other the Parishes, Precincts, and Places within the Weekly Bills of Mortality, the Parishes of Saint Mary-le-bon, Paddington, Saint Pancras, and Saint Luke, at Chelsea, in the County of Middlesex, and for indemnifying, under certain Conditions, Builders and other Persons against the Penalties to which they are or may be liable, for erecting Buildings within the Limits aforesaid contrary to Law."

5. "An Act for the Encouragement of the Arts of designing and printing Linens, Cottons, Callicoes and Muslins, by vesting the Properties thereof, in the Designers, Printers, and Proprietors for a limited Time."

6. "An Act for re-building the Pier of Margate in the Isle of Thanet, in the County of Kent, for ascertaining, establishing, and recovering certain Duties in Lieu of the ancient and customary Droits, for the Support and Maintenance of the said Pier, for widening, paving, repairing, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Streets, Lanes, Highways, and Public Passages in the Town of Margate, and Parish of Saint John the Baptist, in the said Isle of Thanet; for settling the Rates of Porters, Chairmen, Carters, and Carmen within the said Town, and for preventing Encroachments, Nuisances, and Annoyances therein."

7. "An Act for dividing the Parish of Saint James in the City and County of Bristol, and County of Gloucester, and for building a Church, and providing a Cemetery or Church Yard, and Parsonage House within the new Parish."

8. "An Act to render effectual the Purchase of a House situate in the Parish of Saint Luke, Chelsea, in the County of Middlesex, to be used as an additional Workhouse for the Parish of Saint George, Hanover Square, within the Liberty of the City of Westminster, and for other Purposes."

9. "An Act for better lighting and watching the Village of Camberwell, in the County of Surrey, and certain Roads and other Places adjoining or near thereto."

10. "An Act for varying and extending the Powers of the Company of Proprietors of the Forth and Clyde Navigation."

11. "An Act for enabling the Magistrates and Town Council of Paisley, to improve the Navigation of the River Cart, and to make a Navigable Cut or Canal, across the Turnpike Road leading from Glasgow to Greenock."

12. "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Low Lands and Common Fens within the Hamlet of Martin, in the Parish of Timberland, and within the Parish of Blankney, in the County of Lincoln, and for draining and preserving the Low Lands and Fens within the said Hamlet of Martin, and Parish of Blankney, and within the Hamlet of Linwood, in the said Parish of Blankney."

13. "An Act for better draining and preserving certain Lands and Grounds within the Level of Hatfield Chace and Parts adjacent, in the Counties of York, Lincoln, and Nottingham."

14. "An Act to enlarge the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing the Road from the Burgh of Lauder in the Shire of Berwick, to and through Kelso in the Shire of Roxburgh, to the Marchburn."

15. "An Act for continuing the Term, and varying the Powers of an Act of the Second Year of His present Majesty, for repairing the Roads from Kippings Cross, in the County of Kent, to Lamberhurst Pound and Pullens Hill in the said County, and to Flimwell Vent in the County of Sussex; and also for repairing the Road from the Turnpike Gate at Lamberhurst Pound aforesaid, through East Lane and by Hope Mill, to the Turnpike Road at Clay Hill in the Parish of Goudhurst, in the County of Kent."

16. "An Act for continuing the Term and varying the Powers of an Act of the Eighth Year of His present Majesty, for repairing, widening, turning, and altering the Road leading from Reading in the County of Berks, through Henley, in the County of Oxford, and Great Marlow, Chipping Wycombe, Agmondesham, and Cheynes, in the County of Bucks, and Rickmansworth, Watford, and Saint Alban's to Hatfield, in the County of Hertford; and also the Road leading out of the said Road at Marlow over Great Marlow Bridge through Bysham, to or near the Thirty Mile Stone in the Turnpike Road, leading from Maidenhead to Reading."

17. "An Act for continuing and amending three Acts of the Thirteenth Year of King George the First, the Twenty-first Year of His late Majesty, and the Twelfth Year of His present Majesty, so far as the same relate to the Roads from a Place called the Nether Trindle near Dudley, to Kingswinford, and to the further End of Brittel Lane, within the Counties of Stafford and Worcester, and for making and keeping in repair a Road from or near to the Nether Trindle aforesaid, to Tipton Green in the said Counties."

18. "An Act to continue the Term, and alter and enlarge the Powers of several Acts made in the Twenty-sixth and Twenty-seventh Years of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, and the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, so far as relates to the Road leading from Glasgow to Redburn Bridge, and for altering the Course of the Road from Glasgow to Redburn Bridge, and for repairing the Road from Redburn Bridge to Bonny Water and from thence to or near Loanhead, in the County of Stirling, there to join the Turnpike Road leading from Falkirk to Kilsyth."

19. "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Fifth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, intituled, "An Act for amending the Road from the Pinfold in Balby, in the County of York, to Worksop in the County of Nottingham."

20. "An Act for continuing the Term and altering and enlarging the Powers of an Act passed in the Twenty-ninth Year of His late Majesty, for repairing the Roads from Shrewsbury to Preston Brockhurst, to Shawbury, and to Shreybill in the County of Salop; and for repairing several other Roads in the said County."

21. "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road from Beverley by Molscroft to Kendal House, and from Molscroft to Bainton Balk in the County of York."

22. "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty King George the Third, for repairing and widening the Road from Ashborne to Sudbury, and from Sudbury to Yoxhall Bridge, and from the Turnpike Road upon Hatton Moor to Tutbury in the Counties of Derby and Stafford."

To these Bills the Royal Assent was pronounced, severally, by the Clerk Assistant, in these Words; (videlicet)

"Le Roy le veult."

23. "An Act for vesting Part of the settled Estates of the Right Honourable George James Earl Cholmondeley, in the County of Chester, in the said Earl Cholmondeley in Fee-simple; and for settling an Estate of greater Value in the same County, in Lieu thereof."

24. "An Act for vesting certain Estates in the Counties of Bedford, Northampton, Essex, Middlesex, and Cambridge, devised by the Will of Theophilus Dillingham Esquire, deceased, in Dillingham Brampton Gurdon Dillingham Esquire, and his Heirs, and for settling another Estate of greater Value in the County of Norfolk, to the same Uses as the devised Estates now stand limited."

25. "An Act for discharging certain Manors, Messuages, Lands, Tenements, and Hereditaments, in the several Counties of Kent, Surrey, Middlesex, and Berks, Part of the Estate of Oldfield Bowles Esquire, from the Uses, Estates, and Trusts, declared concerning the same in and by the Settlement made previous to the Marriage of the said Oldfield Bowles with Mary his now Wife; and for settling the Manor of North Aston and other Lands and Hereditaments in the County of Oxford, of greater Value, in Lieu thereof, to the like Uses."

26. "An Act for vesting the Tythes and Estate at Orton in the County of Northampton, belonging to Jesus Hospital in the same County, in John Peach Hungerford Esquire, for his Life, with Remainders over; and for settling a Rent Charge out of the said Estate and other Hereditaments of the said John Peach Hungerford at Orton aforesaid, in Lieu thereof."

27. "An Act to dissolve the Marriage of the Honourable Edward Foley with the Right Honourable Lady Ann Coventry, his now Wife, and for other Purposes."

28. "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open and Common Fields and Commonable Places in the Parish of Bitteswell in the County of Leicester."

29. "An Act to confirm an Agreement for dividing, enclosing, and exchanging the Lands and other Estates within the Lordship of Trowell in the County of Nottingham; and for uniting the Two Medieties of the Rectory of the Parish Church of Trowell aforesaid."

30. "An Act for dividing and enclosing certain Moors, Commons, or Waste Grounds in the Parish of Kirkbymalzeard in the County of York."

31. "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Common and Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, within the Manor and Hamlet of Barrow-upon-Trent in the Parish of Barrow-upon-Trent in the County of Derby."

32. "An Act for dividing and enclosing certain Open and Common Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Fens, and Waste Lands, within the Parish of Dorrington in the County of Lincoln."

33. "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Common Fields, Common Pastures, Common Meadows, Common Grounds, and Waste Grounds, in the Parishes of Sarsden and Churchill and Tything of Lyneham, Merriscourt, and Finescourt, in the Parish of Shipton under Whichwood in the County of Oxford."

34. "An Act for naturalizing Frederick Hippius."

To these Bills the Royal Assent was pronounced, severally, by the Clerk Assistant in these Words; (videlicet)

"Soit fait comme il est desiré."

Then the Commons withdrew.

The House was adjourned during Pleasure.

The House was resumed.

Uttoxeter Enclosure Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir Edward Littleton and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for enclosing and leasing or letting certain Commons or Waste Grounds lying within the Township or Constablewick of Uttoxeter in the County of Stafford, called The High Wood and The Heath, and applying the Profits thereof in Aid of the Poor's Rate or other Taxes or Public Expences within the said Township or Constablewick, and within the Constablewick of the Rectory of Uttoxeter;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Hanley Chapel Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir Edward Littleton and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for taking down and re-building the Chapel of Hanley in the County of Stafford; for vesting the Right of Nomination in Trustees, and for enlarging the Chapel Yard, and other Purposes;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Two Bills were, severally, read the First Time.

Homeyer's Naturalization Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Baring and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for naturalizing William Homeyer;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to the same, without any Amendment.

Portsmouth Chapel Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Captain Cornwallis and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for building a New Chapel upon Portsmouth Common in the Parish of Portsea in the County of Southampton;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Dumfries Two Pennies Scots Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir James Johnstone and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for continuing and amending several Acts made in the Third Year of the Reign of King George the First, the Tenth Year of the Reign of King George the Second, and the Second Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots or one-sixth Part of a Penny Sterling on every Pint of Ale or Beer that shall be vended or sold within the Town of Dumfries and Privileges thereof; for paying the Debts of the said Town, and for building a Church and making a Harbour there, and for laying a Duty on the Tonnage of Shipping and a Duty on Good imported and exported into and out of the Port of the said Town; for the better repairing of the said Harbour; and for paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Streets and other Public Places within the said Town, and widening the Streets where necessary, and removing and preventing Nuisances therein;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Two Bills were, severally, read the First Time.

Drummond, or Abp. York's Estate Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Murray and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for vesting the Estates in the County of York, and also the Heir Looms, devised and bequeathed by the Will of the Honourable and Most Reverend Robert late Archbishop of York, in Trustees, to be sold, and for laying out the Monies to arise from such Sales in the Purchase of Estates to be settled to the same Uses;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to the same, without any Amendment.

Bakers Company Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Alderman Newnham and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for ascertaining the Powers and Jurisdiction of the Master, Wardens, and Assistants of the Company of Bakers of the City of London; for preventing any undue Exercise of the Trade or Business of a Baker; and for amending so much of an Act passed in the Thirty-first Year of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, intituled, "An Act for the due making of Bread, and to regulate the Price and Assize thereof, and to punish Persons who shall adulterate Meal, Flour, or Bread," as relates to the Charter and Bye-Laws of the said Company;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Bill was read the First Time.

Ordered, That the said Bill be printed.

Exchequer Loans Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for raising a certain Sum of Money by Loans or Exchequer Bills, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Exchequer further Loans Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for raising a further Sum of Money by Loans or Exchequer Bills, for the Service of the Year One thouthand seven hundred and eighty-seven."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Exchequer Bills Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for raising a further Sum of Money by Exchequer Bills, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Houses, &c. of His Majesty, Sale Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for Sale of certain Houses and Ground belonging to His Majesty."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Messages to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to the Four preceding Bills.

And Messages were, severally, sent to the House of Commons, by Mr. Pepys and Mr. Walker:

To acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the said Bills, without any Amendment.

Pawnbrokers' Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for regulating the Trade and Business of Pawnbrokers."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill, with the Amendments, shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Message to H. C. with Amendment to it.

A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by the former Messengers:

To return the said Bill, and acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the same, with some Amendments, to which their Lordships desire their Concurrence.

Sandwich Paving, &c. Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for the better repairing, paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Highways, Streets, and Lanes of and in the Town and Port of Sandwich in the County of Kent, and in the several Parishes of Saint Peter the Apostle, Saint Mary the Virgin, and Saint Clement, in the said Town, Port, and County; and for removing and preventing Incroachments, Nuisances, Obstructions, and Annoyances in the said Highways, Streets, and Lanes, and on the Common Quay belonging to the said Town and Port, and in the Haven adjoining to the said Quay, and the Bridge built over the said Haven, and for regulating the Births and Mooring Places of Vessels at the said Quay, and the proper Times for Vessels to pass through the said Bridge."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords following:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet To-morrow at Ten o'Clock in the Forenoon, in the Prince's Lodgings near the House of Peers; and to adjourn as they please.

Hursley Roads Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act to continue the Term, and alter and enlarge the Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and amending the Road from the present Turnpike Road in the Parish of Hursley in the County of Southampton, through the Borough of Andover to the Town of Newbury in the County of Berks, and from Newbury to Chilton Pond and Newtown River; and for amending and keeping in Repair the Road from the South End of Bartholomew Street in the said Town of Newbury, to the Turnpike Road at Speenhamland in the said County of Berks."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Lottery Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty a certain Sum of Money to be raised by a Lottery."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Papists Deeds and Wills Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for allowing further Time for Enrollment of Deeds and Wills made by Papists, and for the Relief of Purchasers."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Commmittee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Chester Affidavits, &c. Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for taking and swearing Affidavits to be made use of in the Court of Session of the County Palatine of Chester; and for taking of Special Bill in Actions and Suits depending in the same Court."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Witnesses Competency Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for obviating Objections to the Competency of Witnesses in certain Cases."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Jamaica, &c. Free Ports Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act allowing the Importation and Exportation of certain Goods, Wares, and Merchandize in the Ports of Kingston, Savannah la Mar, Montego Bay, and Santa Lucea in the Island of Jamaica, in the Port of Saint George in the Island of Grenada, in the Port of Roseau in the Island of Dominica, and in the Port of Nassau in the Island of New Providence, one of the Bahama Islands under certain Regulations and Restrictions."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

British Fisheries Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act more effectually to protect the Fisheries on the Coasts of that Part of Great Britain called England, and the Principality of Wales; and for the punishing of Offences against the Persons and Property of Owners of Vessels, and others concerned therein."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Ordered, That the said Bill be printed.

Stamford Road Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of Two Acts passed in the Twelfth and Twenty-fourth Years of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, for repairing the Road between Stamford and Grantham in the County of Lincoln," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Walsall Roads Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road from Muckley Corner to Walsall and Wednesbury, and to Leigh Brook and Ocker Hill, and several other Roads in the County of Stafford, so far as the same relates to the Two First Districts of Road therein comprized," was committed.

Bilston Roads Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for continuing the Term, and altering and enlarging the Powers of an Act of the Sixth Year of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road leading from High Bullen in Wednesbury to the further End of Darlaston Lane next the Portway, and from thence through Bilston, to the further End of Gibbet Lane, and several other Roads leading to and from Bilston in the County of Stafford," was committed.

Grantham Town-hall Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for taking down the Guild-hall or Town-hall in the Borough of Grantham in the County of Lincoln, and re-building the same," was committed.

Devon Gaol Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for making and declaring the Gaol for the County of Devon, called the High Gaol, a public and common Gaol; and for discharging Denys Rolle and John Rolle Esquires, and their respective Heirs and Assigns, from the Office of Keeper of the said Gaol; and for improving and enlarging the same, or building a new one, and also for taking down the Chapel in the Castle of Exeter; and for other Purposes therein mentioned," was committed.

Sussex Gaol Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for vesting the Scite, Buildings, and other the Premises belonging to the Old Gaol or Prison of the County of Sussex, in Trustees, for the Purpose of conveying the same to the Right Honourable Frances Viscountess Irwin and her Heirs; and to declare the New Gaol or Prison lately built, to be the Common Gaol for the said County," was committed.

Aberbrothock Two Pennies Scots Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for continuing the Term of Two Acts made in the Eleventh Year of the Reign of His late Majesty George the Second, and the Third Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots, or One-sixth Part of a Penny Sterling, upon every Scots Pint of Ale and Beer which shall be brewed for Sale, brought into, vended, tapped, or sold within the Town of Aberbrothock and Liberties thereof," was committed.

Little Eaton Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale also reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Common Open Fields, Commonable Lands, and Waste Grounds in the Liberty of Little Eaton, within the Manor of Little Chester, in the County of Derby," was committed: That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; that the Parties concerned had given their Consents to the Satisfaction of the Committee; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Sawley Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Open Fields, Common Meadows, Common Pastures, and Waste Grounds within or belonging to the Hamlet of Sawley in the County of Derby," was committed.

Melbourne Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale also reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Common and Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons and Waste Grounds within the Liberties of Melbourne and King's Newton, in the Parish and Lordship of Melbourne, in the County of Derby," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; that the Parties concerned had given their Consents to the Satisfaction of the Committee; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and made one Amendment thereto."

Which Amendment was read by the Clerk, as follows; (videlicet)

"Pr. 54. L. 37. Leave out ("as") and insert ("and shall be recoverable by Distress and Entry out of and upon the Lands allotted or to be allotted to the said Lay Impropriator in Lieu of his Tythes, as fully as the same might have been recovered")"

And the said Amendment, being read a Second Time, was agreed to by the House.

R. Quarme appointed Yeoman Usher.

The Lord Chancellor acquainted the House, "That Sir Francis Molyneux, Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, had appointed Robert Quarme Esquire to be Yeoman Usher in the Room of his late Father, deceased."

Prince of Wales's Debts, Message from His Majesty respecting.

The Lord Sydney acquainted the House, "That he had a Message from His Majesty under His Royal Sign Manual, which His Majesty had commanded him to deliver to their Lordships."

And the same was read by the Lord Chancellor, and is as follows; (videlicet)

GEORGE R.

It is with great Concern His Majesty acquaints the House of Lords, that from the Accounts which have been laid before His Majesty by the Prince of Wales, it appears that the Prince has incurred a Debt to a large Amount, which if left to be discharged out of his Annual Income, would render it impossible for him to support an Establishment suited to his Rank and Station. Painful as it is all Times to His Majesty, to propose an Addition to the heavy Expences, necessarily borne by His People, His Majesty is induced from his Paternal Affection to the Prince of Wales, to desire the Concurrence of the House of Lords, on an Occasion so interesting to His Majesty's Feelings, and to the Ease and Honour of sodistinguished a Branch of His Royal Family.

His Majesty however could not expect or desire the Assistance of Parliament, but on a well-grounded Expectation, that the Prince will avoid contracting any new Debts in future. With a View to this Object and from an anxious Desire to remove every possible Doubt of the Sufficiency of the Prince's Income, to support amply the Dignity of his Situation, His Majesty has directed a Sum of Ten thousand Pounds per Annum, to be paid out of His Civil List, in Addition to the Allowance which his Majesty has hitherto given him, and His Majesty has the Satisfaction to inform the House, that the Prince of Wales has given His Majesty the fullest Assurances of his firm Determination, to confine his future Expences within his Income, and has also settled a Plan for arranging those Expences in the several Departments, and for fixing an Order of Payment under such Regulations, as His Majesty trusts will effectually secure the due Execution of the Prince's Intentions.

His Majesty has also directed an Estimate to be laid before the House of Lords, of the Sum wanting to compleat in a proper Manner the Works which have been undertaken at Carleton House, as soon as the same can be prepared with sufficient Accuracy, and recommends the same to the Consideration of the House.

"G. R."

Ordered, That this House will take into Consideration His Majesty's Most Gracious Message on Wednesday next; and that the Lords be summoned.

Newcastle Play-House Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir Matthew White Ridley and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act to enable His Majesty to licence a Playhouse in the Town and County of the Town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Edinburgh Streets Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir Adam Ferguson and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for making a Road from Saint Bernard's Street, in the Town of Leith, to the Foot of Leith Walk in the County of Edinburgh; and for widening and enlarging certain Streets in the City of Edinburgh, and the Avenues leading to the same; and for amending Two several Acts, passed relative to the said City, in the Twenty-fifth and Twenty-sixth Years of His present Majesty's Reign;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Cropwell Butler Enclosure Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Medows and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, in the Lordship or Liberty of Cropwell Butler, and a certain Inter-common Field and Meadow, called the Fern Field and Great Meadow, lying intermixed in the said Lordship and the Lordship of Cropwell Bishop in the County of Nottingham;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Ratcliffe Enclosure Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Medows and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, lying within the Parish of Ratcliffe-upon-Trent, in the County of Nottingham;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Thames Moorings Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Alderman Watson and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act to enable the Mayor and Commonalty and Citizens of the City of London, to purchase the Mooring Chains in the River Thames, and for regulating the Lying and Mooring of Ships and Vessels, within the Port of London;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Five Bills were, severally, read the First Time.

Ordered, That the last mentioned Bill be printed.

Milford Road Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Garforth and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for reviving, continuing, and enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act, passed in the Fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for amending and widening the Road from a Place near the Village of Milford, through Haselmere, to the Portsmouth Road between Lippock and Rake, in the several Counties of Surrey, Sussex, and Southampton;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Bill was read the first Time.

Post-Horse Duty Farming Bill.

The Order of the Day being read, for the Third Reading of the Bill, intituled, "An Act to enable the Lord High Treasurer or Commissioners of the Treasury, for the Time being, to let to Farm the Duties granted by an Act, made in the Twenty-fifth Year of His present Majesty's Reign, on Horses let to Hire for travelling Post, and by Time, to such Persons as should be willing to contract for the same;" and for the Lords to be summoned:

The said Bill was accordingly read the Third Time.

Moved, "That the Bill do pass."

Which being objected to;

After short Debate,

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Message to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to it.

A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by the former Messengers:

To acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the said Bill, without any Amendment.

Report of Precedents relative to Impeachments.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees appointed to inspect the Journals of this House, and to see what hath been the Manner of Proceedings formerly against Commoners, who have been Impeached by the House of Commons for Misdemeanors:

That the Committee had met and inspected the Rolls of Parliament and the Journals of the House, and found the following Precedents of Proceedings in Cases of Impeachments, with respect to Commoners:

The Committee being doubtful whether the following Cases, though founded upon Accusations or Complaints made by the House of Commons, are to be considered as Impeachments, and consequently within the Order of Reference made to them, have thought proper to set them down separately:

3d March 1620. Sir Giles Mompesson.

26th March 1621. Post. Mer. Norton and Unwood.

9th June 1628. Dr. Manwaring.

20th July 1641. Post. Mer. Inigo Jones."

Ordered, That the said Report do lie on the Table.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Burke and others, as follows:

Message from H. C. with a further Article of Impeachment against Warren Hastings.

That he was commanded by the Commons to bring and to leave with their Lordships, a further Article against Warren Hastings Esquire, late Governor General of Bengal, in further Support of their Impeachment against him.

"And that he was also commanded, by the Commons, to acquaint their Lordships that Warren Hastings Esquire, Impeached by them of High Crimes and Misdemeanors, is in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms, attending the House of Commons ready to be delivered to the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, when their Lordships shall please to give Order therein."

The House proceeded to read the said further Article: (videlicet)

A further Article (being the Seventh) exhibited by the Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses in Parliament assembled, in the Name of themselves, and of all the Commons of Great Britain, against Warren Hastings Esquire, late Governor General of Bengal, in Maintenance of their Impeachment against him for High Crimes and Misdemeanors."

Article Seventh.

"Whereas the Property of the Lands in Bengal is, according to the Laws and Customs of that Country, an inheritable Property, or as such hath been genenerally held and reputed, and accordingly hath been charged with Debts, and sold, and otherwise conveyed; and the same is, with few Exceptions, vested in certain Natives, called Zemindars or Landholders, under whom other Natives, called Talaakders or Ryots, hold certain subordinate Rights of Property or Occupancy, in the said Lands: and whereas the said Natives are Hindoos, whose Rights and Privileges are grounded upon the Possession of regular Grants, a long Series of Family Succession, and fair Purchase: and whereas it appears that Bengal has been under the Dominion of the Mogul, and subject to a Mahommedan Government for above Two hundred Years:

And whereas while the Mogul Government was in its Vigour, the Property of the Zemindars was held sacred, and either by voluntary Grant from the said Mogul, or by Composition with him, the Native Hindoos were left in the free, quiet, and undisturbed Possession of their Lands, on the single Condition of paying a moderate and certain Revenue, or Quit Rent, to the Mogul Government, called the Aussil Jumma, or original Ground Rent of the Provinces, which had not been materially altered from the Time when it was first settled, in the Year One thousand Five hundred and seventy-three to the Year One thousand seven hundred and forty, when the regular and effective Mogul Government ended:

And whereas, from the last mentioned Period to the Year One thousand seven hundred and sixty-five, Invasions, Usurpations, and various Revolutions took place in the Government of Bengal, in consequence of which the Country was considerably reduced and impoverished; at which Time, that is to say, in the said Year One thousand seven hundred and sixty-five, the East India Company received from the present Mogul Emperor, Sha Alum, a Grant of the Dewanny, or Collection of the Revenues:

And whereas, about the Year One thousand seven hundred and seventy, the Provinces of Bengal and Bahar were visited with a dreadful Famine and Mortality, by which at least One-third of the Inhabitants generally, and in many Places near One-half of the whole Inhabitants, perished, a Loss which could not, by any probable or almost possible Means, be recruited in Four or Five Years; yet nevertheless the Revenue was violently kept up to its former Standard, that is, in the Two Years immediately preceding the appointment of the said Warren Hastings to the Government of Fort William, in consequence of which the remaining Two-thirds, and in many Places a still smaller Proportion of the Inhabitants, were obliged to pay for the Lands then left without Cultivation; and the Country did accordingly languish from the Year One thousand seven hundred and seventy to the Year One thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, and the Evil continued increasing every Day.

And whereas the said Warren Hastings well knew that the Lands had suffered unheard-of Depopulation by the Famine and Mortality aforesaid, and that Collections violently kept up to their former Standard, in the Two Years immediately preceding the Appointment of him the said Warren Hastings to the Government of Fort William, had added to the Distress of the Country, and threatened a general Decay of the Revenue, unless immediate Remedies were applied to prevent it: and whereas it became the bounden Duty of the said Warren Hastings, when appointed to the Government of Fort William, to apply such immediate Remedies as were within his Judgement and his Power: and whereas the said Warren Hastings well knew, and was satisfied in his Judgement, that by intrusting the Collections to the hereditary Zemindars, the People would be treated with more Tenderness, the Rents more improved, and Cultivation more likely to be encouraged, as he the said Warren Hastings well knew that the said Zemindars have a perpetual Interest in the Country; that their Inheritance could not be taken from them; that they are the Proprietors; that the Lands are their Estates, and their Inheritance; that from a long Continuance of the Lands in their Families, it was to be concluded that they had rivetted an Authority in the Districts, acquired an Ascendency over the Minds of the Ryots, and conciliated their Affections; and whereas it was reasonable therefore to expect, and the said Warren Hastings was of Opinion that solid Advantages might be expected from continuing the Lands under the Management of those who have a natural and perpetual Interest in their Prosperity; that the Zemindar would be less liable to Failure or Deficiencies than the Farmer, from the perpetual Interest which the former (the Zemindar) hath in the Country, and because his Inheritance cannot be taken from him, and it would be improbable that he should risk the Loss of it by eloping from his District, which the said Warren Hastings well knew to have been too frequently practised by a Farmer, when hard pressed for the Payment of his Balances, and as frequently pre-determined when he received his Farm.

That the said Warren Hastings, well knowing the Premises, especially the calamitous and distressful State of the Country, from the Famine and Mortality aforesaid; and being well convinced in his own Judgment that the Calamities and Distresses were aggravated by the Collections being violently kept up to the Standard, at which they were fixed before the said Famine; yet, being President of the Presidency of Fort William in Bengal in the Year One thousand seven hundred and seventy-two, in Violation of his Duty to the Company his Masters, and to the Prevention of solid Advantages to them, and with Danger of great Loss foreseen by himself, and in Contempt and Disregard of Property, Title, and Right, all acknowledged by himself to be in the Zemindars, and to the Subversion of true Policy, according to his own Sense of that Policy, and with a total Neglect of Tenderness and Humanity to the Distresses and Calamities of the Inhabitants, he the said Warren Hastings, immediately after his Appointment to the Government of Fort William aforesaid, did make an arbitrary Settlement of the Revenues for Five Years, at a higher Rate than had ever been received before, and with a progressive and accumulating Increase on each of the Four last Years of the said Settlement.

That to accomplish this iniquitous Purpose, he the said Warren Hastings did put the Lands of Bengal up to a pretended public Auction, and invited all Persons to make Proposals for farming the same, thereby encouraging Strangers to bid against the Proprietors; in consequence of which not only the said Proprietors were ousted of the Possession of their Estates, but a great Part fell into the Hands of the Banyans, or principal Black Servants, of British Subjects, connected with and protected by the Government; and this Measure was thus executed, though the said Warren Hastings must have foreseen it would happen, as he has since declared it did happen, that by this Way the Lands too generally fell into the Hands of desperate or knavish Adventurers.

That instead of offering any Abatement to the Inhabitants who had survived the Famine, the Policy of which seemed as strongly implied as the Humanity was undoubted, by the Declaration of the said Warren Hastings, that the Collections kept up to the former Standard had added to the Distress of the Country, the Settlement made by the said Warren Hastings, if it had been, or could have been, rigorously exacted from a Country already so distressed, and from a Population so impaired as that, in the Opinion of the said Warren Hastings, it could not have been recruited in less than Four or Five Years, would have been in Fact what it appeared in Form, most cruel and tyrannical Oppression. But this Settlement, far from being realized, fell considerably short, even in the First of the Five Years, in which the Demand was lightest, and on the Whole of the Five Years the real Receipts fell short of the Settlement, by a Sum so enormous as to exceed Two Millions and an Half Sterling ; and therefore the only Use for which a Settlement, evidently impossible to be realized, could be intended, or to which it could be converted, was the Means thereby afforded for obliging the native Inhabitants to compound with those who made the said Settlement, and were possessed of Authority to enforce it. And the said East India Company were grossly imposed upon in the First Instance, by a promised Increase of Revenue, and defrauded in the Second, not only by the Failure of that Increase, but by the Revenues falling short to a great Amount of what they were in the Two Years preceding the said Settlement.

That the said Warren Hastings, being then at the Head of the Government of Bengal, was a Party to all the said Imposition and Fraud, and to all the Peculation and Embezzlement which might or did arise therefrom, and is principally and specially answerable for the same; and the more especially so, as though the Court of Directors of the East-India Company, on sundry Proofs of Peculation and Embezzlement being laid before them, to which the arbitrary and violen Settlement aforesaid had given Occasion, did positively direct a Prosecution against the Persons who composed the Committee of Circuit, and against all other proper Parties; yet such Prosecution was never carried on to Trial, but, on the contrary, was wholly frustrated and relinquished by the said Warren Hastings, who proposed and carried it in Council, that Orders should be given for withdrawing the said Prosecution ; he the said Warren Hastings declaring, that he was clearly of Opinion that there was no Ground to maintain them, and that they would only be productive of Expence to the Company, and unmerited Vexation to the Parties.

That previous to the Measure before described being carried into Execution, the said Warren Hastings did establish certain fundamental Regulations in Council, to be observed in executing the same; amongst which Regulations it was specially and strictly ordered, that no Farm should exceed the annual Amount of One Lack of Rupees. And further, that no Peshcar, Banyan or other Servant, of whatever Denomination, of the Collector, or Relation or Dependant of any such Servant, should be allowed to farm Lands, nor directly nor indirectly to hold a Concern in any Farm, nor to be Security for any Farmer.

That in direct Violation of these his own Regulations, and in Breach of the public Trust reposed in him, and sufficiently declared by the manifest Duty of his Station, if it had not been expressed and enforced by any positive Institution, he the said Warren Hastings did permit and suffer his own Banyan, or principal Black Steward, named Canto Baboo, to hold Farms in different Purgannahs or Districts, or to be Security for Farms, to the Amount of Thirteen Lacks of Rupees, of the Value of One hundred and Thirty thousand Pounds, or upwards, per Annum; and after enjoying the Whole of these Farms for Two Years, he the said Canto Baboo was permitted by the said Warren Hastings to relinquish Two of them.

That in the Whole of the Transaction aforesaid the said Warren Hastings has been guilty of manifest Breach of Trust to his Employers, and gross Collusion with his Servant, permitting him to hold or be Security for Farms, against the Spirit of his own Regulation, as the said Canto Baboo was the Banyan or Steward of him the said Warren Hastings; and has been also guilty of acting against the Letter as well as Spirit of that Regulation, inasmuch as the said Farms, or Securities for Farms, amounted to a Sum enormously greater than that limited by the Regulationthe Regulation consining each Farm to One Lack of Rupees. And he was also guilty of a Fraud against the East-India Company, by permitting him, the said Canto Baboo, to relinquish the Security which he had given for the Payment of the Rent of certain of the said Farms at the Expiration of Two Years, during which Two Years the Rent was lowest, without Satisfaction made to the Company; to the great Loss of the said Company, the Masters and Employers of the said Warren Hastings.

And whereas the said Warren Hastings well knew, and was deliberately of Opinion, that great Expence and Inconvenience do always attend upon Innovations, and more especially he the said Warren Hastings was well aware of the Expences and many Inconveniencies attendant on Innovations in the Management and Collection of the Revenue of Bengal; that such Innovations caused a Suspension of the Collections; and that continual Variations in the Mode of collecting the Revenue, and the continual Usurpations on the Rights of the People, had fixed in the Minds of the Ryots a rooted Distrust of the Ordinances of Government; and whereas the said Warren Hastings was well and fully apprized, that the Directors of the East India Company were of Opinion, that a sudden Transition from One Mode to another, in the Investigation and Collection of their Revenue, might have alarmed the Inhabitants, lessened their Confidence in the Company's Proceedings, and been attended with other Evils; and whereas it has been always found by Experience that such Innovations in the Ordering and Management of the Territorial Revenues in Bengal have been the Source of much Fraud and Peculation in the Public Revenue, and of Vexation and Oppression to the People, yet the said Warren Hastings, in Contradiction to his own Conviction and Judgement, and against his own declared Opinion, and in Contempt and Neglect of the Opinion of the said Directors, did wantonly and corruptly, from the Commencement of his Government, in the Year One thousand seven hundred and seventy-two, to the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, as President and Governor General as aforesaid, introduce and carry into Execution, without Reason or Necessity, many different Measures or Changes in the Mode of Settlement, Collection, and Management of the Territorial Revenues of Bengal, all arbitrary and inconsistent with each other, and in most Cases standing in direct Contradiction to, and subversive of, some other Measure of the said Warren Hastings, as well as repugnant to his declared Opinions and professed Principles.

That, in particular, the said Warren Hastings, immediately after his Appointment to the Government of Fort William, in April One thousand seven hundred and seventy-two, did abolish the Office of Naib Duan, or Native Collector of the Revenues then existing; that he did at the same Time appoint a Committee of the Board to go on a Circuit through the Provinces, and to form a Settlement of the Revenues for Five Years; that he did next appoint sundry of the Company's Servants to have the Management of the Collections, by fixing One of the said Servants in each District, under the Title of Collector; that he the said Warren Hastings did afterwards abolish the General Board of Revenue, or Council at Muxadavad, assigning as his Reasons for such Abolition, That while the controuling and executive Part of the Revenue, and the Correspondence with the Collectors was carried on by a Council at Muxadavad, the Members of the Administration at Calcutta had no Opportunity of acquiring that thorough and comprehensive Knowledge, which could only result from practical Experience;" and because "the Orders of the Court of Directors, which established a new System, which enjoined many new Regulations and Inquiries, could not properly be delegated to a subordinate Council; and it became absolutely necessary that the Business of the Revenue should be conducted under the immediate Observation and Direction of the Board."

That in November One thousand seven hundred and seventy-three, the said Warren Hastings did abolish the Office of Collector, and transferred the Collection and Management of the Revenues to several Coun cils of Revenue, commonly called Provincial Councils; and did, on the Twenty-fourth of October, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-four, earnestly offer his Advice (to the Governor General and Council, then newly appointed by Act of Parliament) for the Continuation of the said System of Provincial Councils in all its Parts.—That the said Warren Hastings, in further Support and Recommendation of the said System, did, on the Twenty-second of April, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, transmit to the Court of Directors a formal Plan for the future Settlement of the Revenues, and did therein declare that, with respect to the Mode of managing the Collection of the Revenue, and the Administration of Justice, none occurred to him so good as the System which was already established, of Provincial Councils.—That, to give yet further Credit and Support to the said System, he, the said Warren Hastings, on the Eighteenth of January, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, did transmit to the Court of Directors another Plan for the better Administration of Justice; in which Plan also the Establishment of the said Provincial Councils was again specially provided for and confirmed; and the said Warren Hastings did recommend it to the Directors to obtain the Sanction of Parliament for a Confirmation of the said Plan.—That, even yet further to support and give Permanence to the said System, the said Warren Hastings, on the Thirtieth of April One thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, did transmit to the said Court of Directors the Draught or Scheme of an Act of Parliament for the better Administration of Justice in the Provinces, in which the said Establishment of Provincial Councils is again specially included, and special Jurisdiction assigned to the said Councils.

That while the said Warren Hastings suffered this System of Provincial Councils to subsist, and thus repeatedly and urgently recommended the Continuation thereof in all its Parts to the Court of Directors, and repeatedly advised the said Directors to obtain the Sanction of Parliament for its Continuance and Confirmation, he the said Warren Hastings did invade, alter, and violate the Principles on which it was professedly founded, by arbitrarily and corruptly detaching sundry separate Collectorships from the General Province of each Council, for the corrupt Purpose of providing lucrative Places for Persons favoured by him, to the great Loss and Detriment of the East India Company, who were thus loaded with the Expence of the whole Establishment of the said Councils, and with the further Expence of new Establishments for the same Duties and Services, under the Name of separate Collectors.—That the said Warren Hastings well knew that none of these his Acts were necessary or useful to the public Service, but were in every Instance a corrupt Abuse of the Power, and a Breach of the Trust reposed in him, for the Service and Gratification of some Individual, as well as a partial Invasion of that System which he had so repeatedly recommended; all which Corruption, Breach of Trust, and Misgovernment, he the said Warren Hastings did substantially avow, by declaring in Council, on the Nineteenth of January, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine, that the present State of the Government was such as required temporary Expedients, and the Union of private Interests with the Public.—That the said Warren Hastings did not produce any Fact or Argument whatsoever, to shew the State of the Government to be such as he had described it, in that scandalous and criminal Justification of his criminal Actions; but if the State of the Government were really such as to require temporary Expedients, and a Sacrifice of the public to private Interests, the said Warren Hastings had criminally reduced it to that State, he having, for the Two preceding Years, possessed the absolute and uncontrouled Power of Government, by virtue of his casting Voice in Council.

That the Court of Directors did send Orders to the Governor General and Council, dated the Fifth of February, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven, in the Words or to the Effect following: "If you are fully convinced that the Establishment of Provincial Councils has not answered, or is not capable of answering, the Purposes intended by such Institutions, we hereby direct you to form a new Plan for the Collection of the Revenues, and to transmit the same to us for our Consideration."

That, very early in the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, and within Two Months after the Departure of Philip Francis Esquire, by whose Departure the Council General was reduced to Two Persons, he the said Warren Hastings, in Contradiction to his own Sentiments repeatedly declared, and to his own Advice repeatedly and deliverately given, and in wilful Disobedience to the Orders of the Court of Directors, to whom he did not transmit any Plan for their Consideration, did, on sundry false and contradictory Pretences, and for his own corrupt Purposes, again change the whole System of the Collections of the Public Revenue of Bengal, as also the Administration of Civil and Criminal Justice throughout the Provinces, by abolishing, and the said Warren Hastings did corruptly abolish, the said Provincial Councils before the Yearly Collection was finished; and the said Warren Hastings did endeavour, contrary to his Duty, to deceive the Court of Directtors, by assigning false Reasons for abolishing the said Councils; and so to deceive the said Court, he the said Warren Hastings did, in a Letter to the said Court, dated the Fifth of May, One thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, affirm, that the Plan of superintending and collecting the Public Revenue of the Provinces, through the Agency of Provincial Councils, had been instituted for the temporary and declared Purpose of introducing another more permanent Mode by an easy and gradual Change; such Affirmation being in direct Contradiction to his repeatedly declared Sense, in the Course of Eight Years, of the Wisdom of that Institution, of the Necessity of never departing from it, and of his repeated Advice that it might be made perpetual by Act of Parliament.—Nor was the Abolition of the said Councils introduced by any easy and gradual Change, or by any Gradations whatever, as the said Warren Hastings had falsely affirmed, in his Letter of the Fifth of May, One thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, to have been always intended, but was sudden and unprepared, and instantly accomplished by a single Act of Power of him the said Warren Hastings, and before the Yearly Collection was finished.

That he the said Warren Hastings, having arbitrarily and corruptly abolished the said Councils, did substitute in their Place a Committee of Revenue, consisting of Four Persons appointed by himself, on Principles opposite to those which he had himself prosessed, and with exclusive Powers, tending to deprive the Members of the Supreme Council of a due knowledge of and Inspection into the Management of the Territorial Revenues vested by the Legislature in the Governor General and Council, and in Effect to vest the same solely and entirely in the said Warren Hastings; though the said Warren Hastings had before assigned the Necessity of such Knowledge, and of the immediate Observation and Direction of the General Council at Calcutta, as a Reason for abolishing the General Board of Revenue at Muxadavad; and he the said Warren Hastings did also appoint a Native of an infamous Character, generally distrusted, hated, and feared in the Province, and whom the said Warren Hastings knew to be of such ill Character, called Gunga Govind Sing, to be Duan to the said Committee, an Office of great Power and Trust, and of such a Nature, that the Committee aforesaid must chiefly rely upon the Integrity and Fidelity of the Person who fills it, for the due Execution of their Functions in collecting the Revenue, and preserving the Subjects from Oppression.—That he the said Warren Hastings did invest the said Committee of Four Persons, in the fullest Manner, with all the Powers and Authority of the Governor General and Council, and thereby took the general Management and Cognizance of the Revenue out of the Supreme Council, and deprived the Members thereof of the Means of acquiring such Knowledge of the State of the Revenue Business, as might enable them to execute the proper Duty of their Office, or any Knowledge thereof whatsoever, without great Difficulty and Discouragement.—That the said Warren Hastings, by thus delegating the Powers of the Supreme Council to a Board consisting of Persons appointed by himself, or any other Board, acted in direct Disobedience to the lawful Orders of the Court of Directors, his Masters and Employers, and in open Contempt and Defiance of an Act of Parliament of the Thirteenth Year of His present Majesty.

That immediately after the Death of the late Colonel George Monson, in September, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, by which the Number of the Governor General and Council was reduced to Four Persons, and continued so until April, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine, the said Warren Hastings, for the pretended Purpose of obtaining accurate States of the real Value of the Lands, as the Grounds on which a new Settlement of the Provinces was to be constructed, but in reality, and in Breach of his Trust and Duty, to draw into his own Hands the sole Ordering, Management, and Government of the Territorial Acquisitions and Revenues, did depute into all Parts of the Provinces a great Number of Native Officers, under the Title of Aumeens, appointed by, and accountable to himself only, and armed with Powers of a dangerous, arbitrary, and tyrannical Nature, to enquire into the Circumstances, Rents, and Profits of every Man's Estate, and to compel a Discovery thereof, by arresting and punishing those who should dare to oppose or disobey what was styled by the said Warren Hastings, the Orders of Government.—That the pretended Purpose aforesaid was the more manifestly false, because the said Warren Hastings had, upwards of a Year before this Appointment of Aumeens, informed the Court of Directors, by a Plan dated the Twenty-second of April, One thousand seven hundred and seventy-five, that the ascertaining the Value of the several Districts had been sufficiently accomplished: And the Falsehood of the said pretended Purpose is still more evident, because the said Warren Hastings well knew, and was perfectly convinced in his own Judgment and Opinion, that there was not any Trust to be put in the Accounts delivered in by the Aumeens; and that no Dependance could be placed on that Mode of Enquiry; as he knew that Aumeens were not to be trusted.

That, supposing an actual Valuation of all the landed Property of Bengal to be at any Time a just or necessary Measure, and that it had not been, as the said Warren Hastings declared it had been, sufficiently accomplished, yet, when he assumed the Power of appointing, and did actually nominate and appoint the Persons who were to execute such a Measure, and invested them with an arbitrary and universal Power of Investigation, Coercion, and Punishment, which gave them all Means of Fraud, Vexation, and Cruelty, it was more peculiarly and indispensably necessary, and the bounden Duty of the said Warren Hastings to appoint none but Men of the best, or at least of irreproachable and unsuspected Characters, to an Office of such exorbitant Power and Authority; notwithstanding which, and in Neglect of such his bounden Duty, and to the Scandal of Government, to the Encouragement of all Misbehavious and Misconduct in Office, he the said Warren Hastings did nominate and actually appoint to the principal Superintendance of this Business, a Person called Gunga Govind Sing, whom the said Warren Hastings knew to be a Person of infamous Character, and to be loaded with general Reproaches as aforesaid, and who had been before dismissed, for Misconduct, from an Office which he held in the Revenue Department.

That the said Warren Hastings well knew, and was satisfied in his Judgement, that granting long Leases of the Lands was more for the Interest of the East India Company, as well as more conducive to the Ease of the Inhabitants, than the Mode of annual Settlements; and has declared, amongst many other Reasons and Arguments, that the Farmer, who holds his Farm for One Year only, having no Interest in the next, takes what he can with the Hand of Rigour; which, even in the Execution of legal Claims, is often equivalent to Violence; that such Farmer is under the Necessity of being rigid, and even cruel; that he will be tempted to exceed the Bounds of Right, and to augment his Income by irregular Exactions, and by racking the Tenants; and that the Discouragement, which Tenants feel from being transferred every Year to new Lordlords, contributes to injure the Cultivation and dis-people the Lands: Notwithstanding which, and in Neglect of his Duty to, and in Disregard to the Interest of, the East India Company, and the Ease and Welfare of the Inhabitants, as well as in manifest Contradiction to all his own Professions and Declarations on the Subject, he the said Warren Hastings did approve of the Report of the Committee of Revenue, which he had appointed in the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-one, and to whose Discretion he had left it to fix the Term for which the ensuing Settlement should be made; which Committee declared, that, with respect to the Period of the Leases in general, to limit them to One Year would be the best Period.

That, in thus approving the said recommended Settlement, he the said Warren Hastings did not hold himself bound or restrained by the Orders of the Court of Directors, but acted upon his own Discretion; and did again exercise that Discretion, in particular Instances, and for partial, interested, and corrupt Purposes, against his approved general Settlement for One Year, by granting perpetual Leases: And he the said Warren Hastings did, for such partial, interested, and corrupt Purposes, grant perpetual Leases of Farms and Zemindaries to Persons specially favoured by him; and particularly he the said Warren Hastings so granted a perpetual Lease of the Zemindary of Baharbund to Canto Baboo, on very low Terms; which said Canto Baboo was then Banyan or Steward to the said Warren Hastings.

That in all these Transactions the said Warren Hastings, first as President of the Presidency of Fort William, and afterwards as Governor General, has corruptly and wilfully proceeded, in Violation of his Duty to the East India Company, his Masters and Employers; in Disobedience to their Orders, to the great Loss and Damage in their Revenues; in Defiance and Contempt of an Act of Parliament; to the Vexation, Oppression, and Destruction of the Inhabitants of Bengal; in Contradiction and Perversion of his own declared Sense of Duty and true Policy; and to the great Scandal and Reproach of the British Government in India: And that in all and each of the said Transactions, the said Warren Hastings was, and is, guilty of High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

And the said Knights, Citizens, and Burgesses, by Protestation saving to themselves the Liberty of exhibiting, at any Time hereafter, any further Articles, or other Acusation and Impeachment against the said Warren Hastings Esquire, and also of replying to his Answers which he shall make unto the said Articles, or any of them, and of offering Proof to the aforesaid Article, and to all and every other Articles, Impeachment, or Accusation, which shall be exhibited by them, as the Case shall, according to the Course of Parliament, require, do pray that the said Warren Hastings Esquire may be put to answer the said Crimes and Misdemeanors, and that such Proceedings, Examinations, Trials, and Judge ments, may be thereupon had and given, as is agreeable to Law and Justice."

Warren Hastings attached:

Whereas Warren Hastings Esquire, late Governor General of Bengal, stands Impeached before this House by the Commons of Great Britain in Parliament assembled, of High Crimes and Misdemeanors, and is now in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending the House of Commons:

It is Ordered, by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament assembled, That the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod attending this House, his Deputy or Deputies, do forthwith take into his Custody the said Warren Hastings, and keep him in safe Custody until further Order of this House; and this shall be a sufficient Warrant in that Behalf.

To Sir Francis Molyneux, Gentleman
Usher of the Black Rod attending
this House, his Deputy and Deputies and every of them.

Articles of Impeachment read to Warren Hastings at the Bar:

The House being informed, "That Warren Hastings Esquire was in Custody of the Black Rod, pursuant to the Order of this House this Day:"

He was ordered to be brought to the Bar, where being brought accordingly; he kneeled till he was bid to stand up.

And the several Articles of Impeachment being read to him, he was asked by the Lord Chancellor, "What he had to say for himself."

Whereupon, he desired a Copy of the Articles and a convenient Time to be allowed him to answer thereunto, and Counsel to assist him, and that he might be bailed.

He was directed to withdraw.

Warren Hastings to have a Copy, and put in his Answer; and admitted to Bail:

Then the following Orders were made:

Ordered, by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament assembled, That Warren Hastings be admitted to Bail, by entering into a Recognizance of Twenty thousand Pounds for himself, and also with Two Sureties in Ten thousand Pounds each.

And it is further Ordered, That the said Warren Hastings may have a Copy of the Articles of Impeachment against him, and that he be allowed One Month's Time, and until the Second Day of the next Sitting of the House, after the Expiration of the said Month, to put in his Answer to the said Articles; and he hath hereby Counsel allowed him.

Warren Hastings's Bail:

Then the said Warren Hastings being brought to the Bar, was acquainted therewith. Whereupon he offered John Sulivan Esquire and William Brightwell Sumner Esquire, to be his Bail, who being called in, and their Sufficiency examined by the House, they were approved, and severally entered into Recognizances at the Bar, as follow; (videlicet)

Dom. Proc. Die Luna, 21^o Maii 1787.

Warren Hastings, Armiger, recognovit se debere Dno. Regi Viginti Mille Libras bonæ et legalis Monetæ Magna Britanniæ levari de Bonis, Catallis, Terris et Tenement. suis ad Usum dicti Domini Regis."

The Condition of this Recognizance is such, that if the said Warren Hastings shall appear personally before the Lords in Parliament, from Day to Day, until the further Order of this House, then this Recognizance to be void and of none Effect, or else to remain in full Force and Virtue.

"Warren Hastings."

P. Ordin. Dominor. tam Spiritual.

tam Temporal. in Parliament.

Congregator.

Ashley Cowper,

"Cler. Parliamentor."

Dom. Proc. Die Lunæ, 21^o Maii 1787.

Johannes Sullivan, Armiger, recognovit se debere Dno. Regi decem mille Libras bonæ et legalis Monetæ Magnæ Britanniæ levari de Bonis, Catallis, Terris, et Tenement. suis ad Usum dicti Dni. Regis."

The Condition of this Recognizance is such, that if Warren Hastings Esquire shall appear personally before the Lords in Parliament, from Day to Day, until the further Order of this House, then this Recognizance to be void and of none Effect, or else to remain in full Force and Virtue.

John Sulivan.

P. Ordin. Dominor. tam Spiritual. quam Temporal. in Parliament. Congregator.

Ashley Cowper,

"Cler. Parliamentor."

Dom. Proc. Die Lunæ, 21^o Maii 1787.

Gul. Brightwell, Sumner, Armiger recognovit se debere Dno. Regi decem Mille Libras bonæ et legalis Monetæ Magnæ Britanniæ levari de Bonis, Catallis, Terris et Tenement. suis ad Usum dicti Dni. Regis."

The Condition of this Recognizance is such, that if Warren Hastings Esquire shall appear personally before the Lords in Parliament, from Day to Day, until the further Order of this House, then this Recognizance to be void and of none Effect, or else to remain in full Force and Virtue.

"W. B.Sumner."

P. Ordin. Dominor. tam Spiritual. quam Temporal. in Parliament. Congregator.

Ashley Cowper,

"Cler. Parliamentor."

Counsel assigned him.

Then the said Warren Hastings prayed, "That Mr. Plumer, Mr. Law, and Mr. Dallas, might be assigned his Counsel, to assist him in making his Defence."

The same was agreed to, and ordered accordingly.

He was directed to withdraw.

Ordered, That the said Articles be printed.

Insolvent Debtors' Bill.

The Order of the Day being read for the Second Reading of the Bill, intituled, "An Act for the Relief of Insolvent Debtors, and for the Relief of Bankrupts in certain Cases;" and for the Lords to be summoned:

The said Bill was accordingly read a Second Time.

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Adjourn.

Dominus Cancellarius declaravit præsens Parliamentum continuandum esse usque ad et in diem Martis, vicesimum secundum diem instantis Maii, horâ undecimâ Auroræ, Dominis sic decernentibus.

DIE Martis, 22^o Maii 1787.

Domini tam Spirituales quam Temporales præsentes fuerunt:

PRAYERS.

Sutton against Johnstone, in Error:

The Order of the Day being read for the further Consideration of the Writ of Error, in which Evelyn Sutton Esquire is Plaintiff, and George Johnstone Esquire is Defendant; and for the Judges to deliver their Opinions upon the Question of Law proposed to them:

Judges Opinion delivered:

Mr. Justice Gould delivered the unanimous Opinion of the Judges upon the said Question as follows:

"That the Declaration is imperfect, and inadequate to maintain the Plaintiff's Action."

Question to the Judges negatived:

Then it was proposed, "That the following Question be put to the Judges:

"Whether in this Case any Action will lie?"

Which being objected to;

The Question was put, "Whether the said Question shall be put to the Judges?"

It was resolved in the Negative.

Motion for reversing the Judgement negatived:

Then it was moved, "That the Judgement given in the Chamber of Council nigh the Exchequer, called the Council Chamber, reversing a Judgement of the Court of Exchequer, be reversed."

The Question was put thereupon?

It was resolved in the Negative.

Then the following Order and Judgement was made:

Whereas, by virtue of His Majesty's Writ of Error, returnable into the House of Lords in Parliament assembled, a Record of the Chamber of Council nigh the Exchequer, called the Council Chamber, was brought into this House on the 23d of February last, wherein Evelyn Sutton Esquire is Plaintiff, and George Johnstone Esquire Defendant: And Counsel having been heard on Wednesday the 9th, Thursday the 10th, and Friday the 11th Days of this instant May, to argue the Errors assigned upon the said Writ of Error, and the unanimous Opinion of the Judges having been delivered this Day upon a Question of Law to them proposed, and due Consideration and Debate had of what was offered on either Side in this Cause:

Judgement affirmed.

It is Ordered and Adjudged, by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament assembled, That the Judgement given in the said Chamber, of Council nigh the Exchequer called the Council Chamber, reversing a Judgement given in the Court of Exchequer, be and the same is hereby affirmed; and that the Record be remitted, to the end such Proceeding may be had thereupon as if no such Writ of Error had been brought into this House.

The Tenor of which Judgement to be affixed to the Transcript of the Record is as follows:

And afterwards to wit, on Tuesday the Twenty-second Day of May, in the said Twenty-seventh Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord the King, before our said Lord the King, and the Peers in this present Parliament assembled, at Westminster in the said County of Middlesex, comes as well the said Evelyn Sutton as the said George Johnstone in their proper Persons, upon which all and singular the Premises have been seen, and by the said Court of Parliament here fully understood, and as well the Record and Process aforesaid, as the said Judgement thereon rendered as the other Matters and Causes by the said Evelyn Sutton above assigned for Error, being fully examined and seen, and mature Deliberation thereon had, it appears to the said Court of Parliament now here, that in the Judgement given by the Chamber of Council, nigh the Exchequer called the Council Chamber for reversing a Judgement given in the Court of Exchequer, there is not any Error, and that the aforesaid Record of reversing the said Judgement of the Court of Exchequer is in no wise vitious or defective; therefore it is considered by the Court of our said Lord the King, before the King Himself in His said Parliament, that the said Judgement given by the said Chamber of Council, nigh the Exchequer called the Council Chamber, for reversing and annulling the said Judgement of the Court of Exchequer, be in all Things affirmed and remain in full force and Effect, as if no such Writ of Error had been brought into this House, the Matters and Causes by the said Evelyn Sutton above assigned for Error in any wise notwithstanding; and thereupon the Record and Process aforesaid from the Court of Parliament aforesaid are remitted, &c.

Chester Roads Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for amending and widening the Roads from the City of Chester to the Woodside Ferry, in the Township of Birkenhead in the County of Chester, and from the said City to the Assembly House in Parkgate, in the Township of Great Newton, in the said County, and from Great Newton aforesaid, to the said Woodside Ferry, and from the Road leading from the City of Chester to Parkgate aforesaid, to the Road leading from the same City to the said Woodside Ferry," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Sandwich, Paving Bill, &c.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for the better repairing, paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Highways, Streets, and Lanes of and in the Town and Port of Sandwich in the County of Kent, and in the several Parishes of Saint Peter the Apostle, Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Clement in the said Town, Port and County; and for removing and preventing Encroachments, Nuisances, Obstructions, and Annoyances in the said Highways, Streets, and Lanes, and on the Common Quay, belonging to the said Town and Port, and in the Haven adjoining to the said Quay, and the Bridge built over the said Haven; and for regulating the Births, and Mooring Places of Vessels at the said Quay, and the proper Times for Vessels to pass through the said "Bridge," was committed.

Hursley Road Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act to continue the Term, and alter and enlarge the Powers of an Act, made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and amending the Road from the present Turnpike Road in the Parish of Hursley, in the County of Southampton, through the Borough of Andover, to the Town of Newbury in the County of Berks, and from Newbury to Chilton Pond, and Newtown River, and for amending and keeping in Repair the Road from the South End of Bartholomew Street in the said Town of Newbury to the Turnpike Road at Speenhamland in the said County of Berks," was committed.

Navigation Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act to enforce and render more effectual several Acts passed in the Twelfth Year of the Reign of King Charles the Second, and other Acts made for the Increase and Encouragement of Shipping and Navigation;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Expiring Laws Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act to continue several Laws relating to the free Importation of certain Raw Hides and Skins from Ireland, and the British Plantations in America; to the allowing the Exportation of certain Quantities of Wheat, and other Articles to His Majesty's Sugar Colonies in America; to the prohibiting the Exportation of Tools and Utensils made Use of in the Iron and Steel Manufactures of this Kingdom; and to prevent the seducing of Artificers and Workmen employed in those Manufactures, to go into Parts beyond the Seas; and to the granting a Bounty on the Exportation of certain Species of British and Irish Linens exported, and taking off the Duties on foreign Raw Linen Yarns made of Flax imported;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

American Commissioners Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Losses and Services of all such Persons who have suffered in their Rights, Properties, and Professions, during the late unhappy Diffensions in America, in consequence of their Loyalty to His Majesty, and Attachment to the British Government;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Wine Allowances Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for making Allowances to the Dealers in foreign Wines, for the Stock of certain foreign Wines in their Possession at a certain Time, upon which the Duties on Importation have been paid; and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Excise;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Glass Duties Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty certain Duties on Glass imported into Great Britain; and for altering the Mode of charging the Duties on Glass made in Great Britain;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Spirits Licences Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for laying additional Duties upon Licences to be taken out by Persons dealing by Retail in Spirituous Liquors;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Consolidated Fund Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty a certain Sum of Money out of the Consolidated Fund, and for applying certain Monies therein mentioned, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven; and for further appropriating the Supplies granted in this Session of Parliament;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Customs Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for making further Provisions in regard to such Vessels as are particularly described in an Act made in the Twenty-fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for the more effectual Prevention of Smuggling in this Kingdom, and for extending the said Act to other Vessels and Boats not particularly described therein; for taking off the Duties on Flasks in which Wine or Oil is imported; for laying an additional Duty on foreign Geneva imported; for taking of the Duty on Ebony, the Growth of Africa, imported in this Kingdom; and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Customs;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Land Tax Commissioners Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for rectifying Mistakes in the Names of several of the Commissioners appointed by an Act made in the last Session of Parliament to put in Execution an Act made in the same Session, intituled, "An Act for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax to be raised in Great Britain for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-six; and for appointing other Commissioners, together with those named in the first-mentioned Act, to put in Execution an Act of this Session of Parliament, for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax to be raised in Great Britain, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

Public Officers Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Gilbert and others:

With a Bill, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Fees, Gratuities, Perquisites, and Emoluments which are or have been lately received in the several Public Offices therein mentioned; to examine into any Abuses which may exist in the same; and to report such Observations as shall occur to them for the better conducting and managing the Business transacted in the said Offices;" to which they desire the Concurrence of this House.

The said Ten Bills were, severally, read the First Time.

Insolvent Debtor's Bill.

Moved, "That the Order of the Day for the House to be put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, An Act for the Relief of Insolvent Debtors, and for the Relief of Bankrupts in certain Cases," be now read."

And being read accordingly:

It was moved, "That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill on Tuesday the 19th Day of June next."

Which being objected to;

After long Debate,

The Question was put thereupon?

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill on Tuesday the 19th Day of June next.

Dumfries Two Pennies Scots Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for continuing and amending several Acts made in the Third Year of the Reign of King George the First, the Tenth Year of the Reign of King George the Second, and the Second Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots or One-sixth Part of a Penny Sterling, on every Pint of Ale or Beer that shall be vended or sold within the Town of Dumfries and Privileges thereof; for paying the Debts of the said Town, and for building a Church, and making a Harbour there; and for laying a Duty on the Tonnage of Shipping, and a Duty on Goods imported and exported into and out of the Port of the said Town; for the better repairing of the said Harbour; and for paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Streets and other Public Places within the said Town, and widening the Streets where necessary, and removing and preventing Nuisances therein."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords following:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet Tomorrow, at Ten o'Clock in the Forenoon, in the Prince's Lodgings, near the House of Peers; and to adjourn as they please.

Cropwell Butler Enclosure Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds in the Lordship or Liberty of Cropwell Butler, and a certain Inter-common Field and Meadow called the Fern Field and Great Meadow, lying intermixed in the said Lordship, and the Lordship of Cropwell Bishop in the County of Nottingham."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Ratcliffe Enclosure Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds lying within the Parish of Ratcliffe-upon-Trent in the County of Nottingham."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Uttoxeter Enclosure Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for enclosing and leasing, or letting certain Commons or Waste Grounds lying within the Township or Constablewick of Uttoxeter in the County of Stafford, called the High Wood and the Heath, and applying the Profits thereof in Aid of the Poor's Rate or other Taxes or Public Expences within the said Township or Constablewick, and within the Constablewick of the Rectory of Uttoxeter."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Milford Road Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for reviving, continuing, and enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for amending and widening the Road from a Place near the Village of Milford, through Haslemere, to the Portsmouth Road between Lippock and Rake in the several Counties of Surrey, Sussex, and Southampton."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Bakers' Company Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for ascertaining the Powers and Jurisdiction of the Master, Wardens, and Assistants of the Company of Bakers of the City of London; for preventing any undue Exercise of the Trade or Business of a Baker; and for amending so much of an Act passed in the Thirty-first Year of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second intituled, "An Act for the due making of Bread, and to regulate the Price and Assize thereof, and to punish Persons who shall adulterate Meal, Flour, or Bread," as relates to the Charter and Bye Laws of the said Company."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Hanley Chapel Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for taking down and re-building the Chapel of Hanley in the County of Stafford; for vesting the Right of Nomination in Trustees; and for enlarging the Chapel Yard, and other Purposes."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships, or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day at the same Place; and to adjourn as they please.

Newcastle Play-house Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act to enable His Majesty to Licence a Playhouse in the Town and County of the Town of Newcastle-uponTyne."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day at the same Place, and to adjourn as they please.

Edinburgh Streets Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for making a Road from Saint Bernard's Street in the Town of Leith, to the Foot of Leith Walk in the County of Edinburgh, and for widening and enlarging certain Streets in the City of Edinburgh, and the Avenues leading to the same; and for amending Two several Acts passed relative to the said City, in the Twenty-fifth and Twenty-sixth Years of His present Majesty's Reign."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day, at the same Place, and to adjourn as they please.

Portsmouth Chapel Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for building a new Chapel upon Portsmouth Common, in the Parish of Portsea in the County of Southampton."

Ordered, That the said Bill be committed to the Consideration of the Lords Committees aforenamed:

Their Lordships or any Five of them, to meet on the same Day at the same Place, and to adjourn as they please.

Ratcliffe Enclosure Bill, Petition against.

Upon reading the Petition of John Sherwin Esquire, in Behalf of himself and several other Owners of Land, in the Parish of Ratcliffe-upon-Trent, in the County of Nottingham, taking Notice of a Bill, depending in this House, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, lying within the Parish of Ratcliffe-upon-Trent, in the County of Nottingham;" and praying in Behalf of himself and the other Freeholders in the said Parish, "That such Provisions as were omitted to be inserted in the said Bill, may be therein inserted, and that the Petitioner may be heard by himself or Counsel in Support thereof, or that the said Bill may not pass into a Law:"

It is Ordered, That the said Petition be referred to the Lords Committees, to whom the said Bill stands committed, with Liberty for the Petitioner to be heard by himself, or Counsel against the said Bill, as also Counsel be heard for the Bill at the same Time, if they think fit.

Edinburgh Streets Bill, Petition against.

Upon reading the Petition of the Persons whose Names are thereunto subscribed, Owners of Houses on the East and South Side of Mills Square in the City of Edinburgh, taking Notice of a Bill depending in this House, intituled, "An Act for making a Road from Saint Bernard's Street in the Town of Leith, to the Foot of Leith Walk in the County of Edinburgh; and for widening and enlarging certain Streets in the City of Edinburgh, and the Avenues leading to the same; and for amending Two several Acts passed, relative to the said City, in the Twenty-fifty and Twensixth Years of His present Majesty's Reign;" and praying, "That they may be heard by their Counsel against the said Bill passing into a Law, or that they may have such Relief in the Premises, as to their Lordships may seem just:"

It is Ordered, That the said Petition be referred to the Lords Committees, to whom the said Bill stands committed, with Liberty for the Petitioners to be heard by their Counsel against the said Bill, as desired, as also Counsel be heard for the Bill at the same Time if they think fit.

Delvalle et al. against York Buildings Company.

The House being informed, "That the Governor and Company of Undertakers, for raising Thames Water in York Buildings, Respondents to the Appeal of Rebecca Delvalle and others, Creditors of the York Buildings Company, had not put in their Answer to the said Appeal, though duly served with the Order of this House, for that Purpose:"

And thereupon an Affidavit of John Morison, Writer in Edinburgh, of the due Service of the said Order being read:

Ordered, That the said Respondents do put in their Answer to the said Appeal, peremptorily in a Week.

Lottery Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty, a certain Sum of Money to be raised by a Lottery."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Papists Deeds and Wills Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for allowing further Time for Enrollment of Deeds and Wills made by Papists, and for the Relief of Purchasers."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Chester Affidavits, &c. Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for taking and swearing Affidavits to be made use of in the Court of Session of the County Palatine of Chester, and for taking of Special Bail, in Actions and Suits depending in the same Court."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Witnesses Competency Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for obviating Objections to the Competency of Witnesses in certain Cases."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Jamaica, &c. Free Ports Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for allowing the Importation and Exportation of certain Goods, Wares, and Merchandize in the Ports of Kingston, Savannah La Mar, Montego Bay, and Santa Lucea, in the Island of Jamaica, in the Port of Saint George in the Island of Grenada, in the Port of Roseau in the Island of Dominica, and in the Port of Nassau in the Island of New Providence, one of the Bahama Islands, under certain Regulations and Restrictions."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Aberbrothock Two Pennies Scots Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for continuing the Term of Two Acts made in the Eleventh Year of the Reign of His late Majesty George the Second, and the Third Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots, or one-sixth Part of a Penny Sterling, upon every Scots Pint of Ale and Beer which shall be brewed for Sale, brought into, vended, tapped, or sold within the Town of Aberbrothock and Liberties thereof."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Walsall Roads Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road from Muckley Corner to Walsall and Wednesbury, and to Leigh Brook and Ocker Hill, and several other Roads in the County of Stafford, so far as the same relates to the Two first Districts of Road therein comprized."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Bilston Road Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for continuing the Term and altering and enlarging the Powers of an Act of the Sixth Year of His present Majesty, for repairing and widening the Road leading from High Bullen in Wednesbury to the further End of Darlaston Lane next the Portway, and from thence through Bilston to the further End of Gibbet Lane, and several other Roads leading to and from Bilston in the County of Stafford."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Sawley Enclosure Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Open Fields, Common Meadows, Common Pastures, and Waste Grounds, within or belonging to the Hamlet of Sawley in the County of Derby."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Grantham Town-hall Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for taking down the Guild-hall or Town-hall in the Borough of Grantham in the County of Lincoln, and re-building the same."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Devon Gaol Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for making and declaring the Gaol for the County of Devon called the High Gaol, a Public and Common Gaol, and for discharging Denys Rolle and John Rolle Esquires, and their respective Heirs and Assigns, from the Office of Keeper of the said Gaol, and for improving and enlarging the same or building a new one, and also for taking down the Chapel in the Castle of Exeter, and for other Purposes therein mentioned."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Little Eaton Enclosure Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Common Open Fields, Commonable Lands, and Waste Grounds, in the Liberty of Little Eaton within the Manor of Little Chester in the County of Derby."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Sussex Gaol Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for vesting the Scite, Buildings, and other the Premises belonging to the Old Gaol or Prison of the County of Sussex, in Trustees, for the Purpose of conveying the same to the Right Honourable Frances Viscountess Irwin and her Heirs, and to declare the New Gaol or Prison lately built, to be the Common Gaol for the said County."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Stamford Road Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for enlarging the Term and Powers of Two Acts passed in the Twelfth and Twenty-fourth Years of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, for repairing the Road between Stamford and Grantham in the County of Lincoln."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Messages to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to the Fourteen preceding Bills.

And Messages were, severally, sent to the House of Commons, by Mr. Pepys and Mr. Walker:

To acquaint them That the Lords have agreed to the said Bills, without any Amendment.

Melbourne Enclosure Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Common and Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, within the Liberties of Melbourne and King's Newton in the Parish and Lordship of Melbourne in the County of Derby."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill, with the Amendment, shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Message to H. C. with an Amendment to it.

A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by the former Messengers:

To return the said Bill and acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the same with One Amendment, to which their Lordships desire their Concurrence.

Cropwell Butler Enclosure Bill: King's Consent signified.

The Lord Sydney acquainted the House, "That His Majesty having being informed of the Contents of the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds in the Lordship or Liberty of Cropwell Butler, and a certain Inter-common Field, and Meadow called the Fern Field and Great Meadow, lying intermixed in the said Lordship and the Lordship of Cropwell Bishop in the County of Nottingham," was pleased to consent (as far as His Majesty's Interest is concerned), that their Lordships may proceed therein as they shall think fit."

Adjourn.

Dominus Cancellarius declaravit præsens Parliamentum continuandum esse usque ad et in diem Mercurii, vicesimum tertium diem instantis Maii, horâ undecimâ Auroræ, Dominis sic decernentibus.

DIE Mercurii, 23^o Maii 1787.

Domini tam Spirituales quam Temporales præsentes fuerunt:

PRAYERS.

Prince of Wales Debts, State of, delivered:

The Lord Sydney (by His Majesty's Command) laid before the House,

"Abstract of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's Three Years Expenditure, from 5th July 1783 to 5th July 1786."

And also, "State of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales's Debts, to 5th July 1786."

And the Titles thereof being read by the Clerk:

Ordered, That the said Accounts do lie on the Table.

Consideration of Message respecting, put off.

The Order of the Day being read for taking into Consideration His Majesty's Most Gracious Message, delivered to the House on Wednesday last:

Ordered, That the said Order be discharged.

Ordered, That this House will take into Consideration His Majesty's Most Gracious Message To-morrow; and that the Lords be summoned.

Navigation Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act to enforce and render more effectual several Acts, passed in the Twelfth Year of the Reign of King Charles the Second, and other Acts made for the Increase and Encouragement of Shipping and Navigation."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Expiring Laws Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act to continue several Laws relating to the free Importation of certain Raw Hides and Skins from Ireland, and the British Plantations in America; to the allowing the Exportation of certain Quantities of Wheat and other Articles to His Majesty's Sugar Colonies in America; to the prohibiting the Exportation of Tools and Utensils made Use of in the Iron and Steel Manufactures of this Kingdom, and to prevent the seducing of Artificers and Workmen employed in those Manufactures, to go into Parts beyond the Seas, and to the granting a Bounty on the Exportation of certain Species of British and Irish Linens exported, and taking off the Duties on foreign Raw Linen Yarns, made of Flax imported."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

American Commissioners Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Losses and Services of all such Persons who have suffered in their Rights, Properties, and Professions, during the late unhappy Dissentions in America, in consequence of their Loyalty to His Majesty, and Attachment to the British Government."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Wine Allowances Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for making Allowances to the Dealers in Foreign Wines for the Stock of certain Foreign Wines in their Possession, at a certain Time upon which the Duties on Importation have been paid; and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Excise."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Pawnbrokers Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Alderman Newnham and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for regulating the Trade and Business of Pawnbrokers;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to their Lordships Amendments thereto.

Salusbury's Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Sir Charles Gould and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for rendering valid and effectual the Powers of Sale and Exchange, inserted in the Settlement made on the Marriage of Robert Salusbury Esquire, with Catherine his Wife;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to the same, without any Amendment.

Simpson's Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by Mr. Brudenell and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for vesting Part of the Estates, late of William Simpson Esquire, in the Counties of York, Lincoln, and Nottingham, in Trustees, to be sold, and for laying out the Money arising by such Sale in the Purchase of other Lands and Hereditaments to be settled, in Lieu thereof, to the same Uses;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to the same, without any Amendment.

Glass Duty Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty certain Duties on Glass imported into Great Britain; and for altering the Mode of charging the Duties on Glass made in Great Britain."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Spirit Licences Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for laying additional Duties upon Licences, to be taken out by Persons dealing by Retail in Spirituous Liquors."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Consolidated Fund Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty a certain Sum of Money out of the Consolidated Fund, and for applying certain Monies therein mentioned, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven; and for further appropriating the Supplies granted in this Session of Parliament."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Customs Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for making further Provisions in regard to such Vessels as are particularly described in an Act made in the Twenty-fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for the more effectual Prevention of Smuggling in this Kingdom, and for extending the said Act to other Vessels and Boats not particularly described therein, for taking off the Duties on Flasks in which Wine or Oil is imported, for laying an additional Duty on foreign Geneva imported; for taking off the the Duty on Ebony, the Growth of Africa, imported into this Kingdom, and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Customs."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Land Tax Commissioners Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for rectifying Mistakes in the Names of several of the Commissioners appointed by an Act made in the last Session of Parliament, to put in Execution an Act made in the same Session, intituled, "An Act for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax, to be raised in Great Britain, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-six, and for appointing other Commissioners together with those named in the First mentioned Act, to put in Execution an Act of this Session of Parliament for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax, to be raised in Great Britain, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Public Offices Bill.

Hodie 2^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Fees, Gratuities, Perquisites, and Emoluments, which are or have been lately received in the several Public Offices therein-mentioned; to examine into any Abuses which may exist in the same, and to report such Observations as shall occur to them for the better conducting and managing the Business transacted in the said Offices."

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

Ordered, That the House be put into a Committee upon the said Bill To-morrow.

Chester Roads Bill.

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for amending and widening the Roads from the City of Chester to the Woodside Ferry in the Township of Birkenhead, in the County of Chester, and from the said City to the Assembly House in Parkgate, in the Township of Great Neston in the said County, and from Great Neston aforesaid, to the said Woodside Ferry, and from the Road leading from the City of Chester to Parkgate aforesaid, to the Road leading from the same City to the said Woodside Ferry."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Sandwich Paving, &c.Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for the better repairing, paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Highways, Streets, and Lanes of and in the Town and Port of Sandwich in the County of Kent, and in the several Parishes of Saint Peter the Apostle, Saint Mary the Virgin, and Saint Clement in the said Town, Port and County; and for removing and preventing Encroachments, Nuisances, Obstructions and Annoyances in the said Highways, Streets, and Lanes, and on the Common Quay belonging to the said Town and Port, and in the Haven adjoining to the said Quay, and the Bridge built over the said Haven; and for regulating the Births and Mooring Places of Vessels at the said Quay, and the proper Times for Vessels to pass through the said Bridge."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Hursley Roads Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act to continue the Term and alter and enlarge the Powers of an Act made in the Sixth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for repairing and amending the Road from the present Turnpike Road in the Parish of Hursley in the County of Southampton, through the Borough of Andover, to the Town of Newbury in the County of Berks, and from Newbury to Chilton Pond and Newtown River, and for amending and keeping in repair the Road from the South End of Bartholomew Street in the said Town of Newbury, to the Turnpike Road at Speenhamland in the said County of Berks."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Messages to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to the Three preceding Bills.

And Messages were, severally, sent to the House of Commons, by Mr. Pepys and Mr. Walker:

To acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the said Bills, without any Amendment.

Writs of Error delivered:

The Earl of Mansfield, Lord Chief Justice of the Court of King's Bench, in the usual Manner delivered in at the Table two Writs of Error.

De Berdt against French and Hubbert:

In the First of which,

Denis de Berdt is Plaintiff
and
Martin French and Thomas Hubbert are Defendants.

Lloyd against Hare.

And in the last,
Edward Lloyd is Plaintiff,
and
Richard Hare Esquire is Defendant.

Thames Moorings Bill.

Moved, "That the Bill, intituled, "An Act to enable the Mayor and Commonalty and Citizens of the City of London to purchase the Mooring Chains in the River Thames; and for regulating the Lying and Mooring of Ships and Vessels within the Port of London," be now read a Second Time."

Then it was moved, "That the said Bill be read a Second Time on Tuesday the 19th Day of June next."

Which being objected to;

After Debate,

The Question was put thereupon?

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Ordered, That the said Bill be read a Second Time on Tuesday the 19th Day of June next.

Milford Road Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for reviving, continuing, and enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty for amending and widening the Road from a Place near the Village of Milford, through Haslemere to the Portsmouth Road between Lippock and Rake in the Several Counties of Surrey Sussex, and Southampton," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Bakers Company Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for ascertaining the Powers and Jurisdiction of the Master Wardens and Assistants of the Company of Bakers of the City of London; for preventing any undue Exercise of the Trade or Business of a Baker; and for amending so much of an Act passed in the Thirty-first Year of the Reign of His late Majesty King George the Second, intituled, "An Act for the due making of Bread, and to regulate the Price and Assize thereof, and to punish Persons who shall adulterate Meal, Flour, or Bread," as relates to the Charter and Bye-Laws of the said Company," was committed.

Portsmouth Chapel Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for building a new Chapel upon Portsmouth Common, in the Parish of Portsea in the County of Southampton," was committed.

Hanley Chapel Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for taking down and re-building the Chapel of Hanley in the County of Stafford, for vesting the Right of Nomination in Trustees, and for enlarging the Chapel Yard, and other Purposes," was committed.

Dumfries Two Penny Scots Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale made the like Report from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for continuing and amending several Acts made in the Third Year of the Reign of King George the First, the Tenth Year of the Reign of King George the Second, and the Second Year of the Reign of His present Majesty; for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots, or One Sixth Part of a Penny Sterling, on every Pint of Ale or Beer, that shall be vended or sold within the Town of Dumfries, and Privileges thereof; for paying the Debts of the said Town, and for building a Church and making a Harbour there; and for laying a Duty on the Tonnage of Shipping, and a Duty on Goods imported and exported into and out of the Port of the said Town; for the better repairing of the said Harbour; and for paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Streets and other Public Places within the said Town, and widening the Streets where necessary, and removing and preventing Nuisances therein," was committed.

Uttoxeter Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale also reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for enclosing and leasing or letting certain Commons or Waste Grounds, lying within the Township of Constablewick of Uttoxeter in the County of Stafford, called the High Wood and the Heath, and applying the Profits thereof in aid of the Poor's Rate or other Taxes or public Expences within the said Township or Constablewick, and within the Constablewick of the Rectory of Uttoxeter," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; that the Parties concerned had given their Consents to the Satisfaction of the Committee; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Melbourne Enclosure Bill.

A Message was brought from the House of Commons, by the Lord George Cavendish and others:

To return the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the several Common and Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds, within the Liberties of Melbourne and King's Newton, in the Parish and Lordship of Melbourne, in the County of Derby;" and to acquaint this House, That they have agreed to their Lordships' Amendment made thereto.

Adjourn.

Dominus Cancellarius declaravit præsens Parliamentum continuandum esse usque ad et in diem Jovis, vicesimum quartum diem instantis Maii, horâ undecimâ Auroræ, Dominis sic decernentibus.

DIE Jovis, 24^o Maii 1787.

Domini tam Spirituales quam Temporales præsentes fuerunt:

PRAYERS.

Dumfries Two Penny Scots Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for continuing and amending several Acts made in the Third Year of the Reign of King George the First, the Tenth Year of the Reign of King George the Second, and the Second Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for laying a Duty of Two Pennies Scots, or onesixth Part of a Penny Sterling, on every Pint of Ale or Beer that shall be vended or sold within the Town of Dumfries and Privileges thereof, for paying the Debts of the said Town, and for building a Church and making a Harbour there; and for laying a Duty on the Tonnage of Shipping, and a Duty on Goods imported and exported into and out of the Port of the said Town; for the better repairing of the said Harbour; and for paving, cleansing, lighting, and watching the Streets and other Public Places within the said Town, and widening the Streets where necessary, and removing and preventing Nuisances therein."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Uttoxeter Enclosure Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for enclosing and leasing or letting certain Commons or Waste Grounds lying within the Township or Constablewick of Uttoxeter, in the County of Stafford, called the High Wood and the Heath, and applying the Profits thereof in Aid of the Poor's Rate or other Taxes or publick Expences within the said Township or Constablewick, and within the Constablewick of the Rectory of Uttoxeter."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Milford Road Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for reviving, continuing, and enlarging the Term and Powers of an Act passed in the Fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for amending and widening the Road from a Place near the Village of Milford, through Haslemere to the Portsmouth Road between Lippock and Rake, in the several Counties of Surrey, Sussex, and Southampton."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Hanley Chapel Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for taking down and re-building the Chapel of Hanley, in the County of Stafford; for vesting the Right of Nomination in Trustees, and for enlarging the Chapel Yard, and other Purposes."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Portsmouth Chapel Bill:

Hodie 3^a vice lecta est Billa, intituled, "An Act for building a new Chapel on Portsmouth Common, in the Parish of Portsea, in the County of Southampton."

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Messages to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to the Five preceding Bills.

And Messages were, severally, sent to the House of Commons, by Mr. Pepys and Mr. Walker:

To acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the said Bills, without any Amendment.

V. Bolinbroke takes his Seat:

This Day George Richard Viscount Bolingbroke sat First in Parliament, after the Death of his Father Frederick Viscount Bolingbroke; His Lordship having First at the Table taken the Oaths, and made and subscribed the Declaration, and also taken and subscribed the Oath of Abjuration, pursuant to the Statutes.

Pedigree delivered.

Garter King at Arms delivered in at the Table his Lordships' Pedigree, pursuant to the Standing Order.

Navigation Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act to enforce and render more effectual several Acts passed in the Twelfth Year of the Reign of King Charles the Second, and other Acts made for the Increase and Encouragement of Shipping and Navigation."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Expiring Laws Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act to continue several Laws relating to the free Importation of certain Raw Hides and Skins from Ireland and the British Plantations in America; to the allowing the Exportation of certain Quantities of Wheat and other Articles to His Majesty's Sugar Colonies in America; to the prohibiting the Exportation of Tools and Utensils made use of in the Iron and Steel Manufactures of this Kingdom; and to prevent the seducing of Artificers and Workmen employed in those Manufactures to go into Parts beyond the Seas; and to the granting a Bounty on the Exportation of certain Species of British and Irish Linens exported, and taking off the Duties on Foreign Raw Linen Yarns made of Flax imported."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment.

American Commissioners Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Losses and Services of all such Persons who have suffered in their Rights, Properties, and Professions, during the late unhappy Diffentions in America, in consequence of their Loyalty to His Majesty and Attachment to the British Government."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Wine Allowances Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for making Allowances to the Dealers in Foreign Wines, for the Stock of certain Foreign Wines in their Possession, at a certain Time, upon which the Duties on Importation have been paid; and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Excise."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Glass Duties Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty certain Duties on Glass imported into Great Britain, and for altering the Mode of charging the Duties on Glass made in Great Britain."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Spirit Licences Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for laying additional Duties upon Licences to be taken out by Persons dealing by Retail in Spirituous Liquors."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Consolidated Fund Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for granting to His Majesty a certain Sum of Money out of the Consolidated Fund, and for applying certain Monies therein mentioned for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven, and for further appropriating the Supplies granted in this Session of Parliament."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Customs Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for making further Provisions in regard to such Vessels as are particularly described in an Act made in the Twenty-fourth Year of the Reign of His present Majesty, for the more effectual Prevention of Smuggling in this Kingdom; and for extending the said Act to other Vessels and Boats not particularly described therein; for taking off the Duties on Flasks in which Wine or Oil is imported; for laying an additional Duty on Foreign Geneva imported; for taking off the Duty on Ebony, the Growth of Africa, imported into this Kingdom; and for amending several Laws relative to the Revenue of Customs."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Land tax Commissioners' Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for rectifying Mistakes in the Names of several of the Commissioners appointed by an Act made in the last Session of Parliament, to put in Execution an Act made in the same Session, intituled, "An Act for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax to be raised in Great Britain, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-six, and for appointing other Commissioners together with those named in the first mentioned Act, to put in Execution an Act of this Session of Parliament, for granting an Aid to His Majesty by a Land Tax to be raised in Great Britain, for the Service of the Year One thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Public Offices Bill.

The House (according to Order) was adjourned during Pleasure, and put into a Committee upon the Bill, intituled, "An Act for appointing Commissioners further to enquire into the Fees, Gratuities, Perquisites, and Emoluments which are or have been lately received in the several public Offices therein mentioned, to examine into any Abuses which may exist in the same, and to report such Observations as shall occur to them, for the better conducting and managing the Business transacted in the said Offices."

After some Time, the House was resumed:

And the Lord Scarsdale reported from the Committee, "That they had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Peers' Pedigrees reported.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees for Privileges, appointed to consider of the Pedigrees of several Peers: "That the Committee had met and considered of the Pedigree of Charles Duke of Norfolk, Hugh Duke of Northumberland, George Earl of Leicester, John Earl Strange, James Viscount Hamilton, Henry Lord Teynham, Algernon Lord Lovaine, George Lord Tyrone, Richard Lord Carleton, Charles Lord Hawkesbury, and Harbord Lord Suffield, and had examined Garter King at Arms upon Oath, in relation thereto at the Bar, who had fully verified the same, together with the Proofs thereof, and that the said Lords had respectively signed and certified the same to be true, to the best of their Knowledge, Information, and Belief, upon their Honour, pursuant to the Orders of the House."

Cropwell Butler Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds in the Lordship or Liberty of Cropwell Butler, and a certain Intercommon, Field, and Meadow, called the Fern Field and Great Meadow, lying intermixed in the said Lordship, and the Lordship of Cropwell Bishop in the County of Nottingham," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; that the Parties concerned had given their Consents to the Satisfaction of the Committee; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and made some Amendments thereto."

Ordered, That the said Bill be re-committed to the same Committee, and that they do meet to consider the said Bill on Monday next.

Ratcliffe Enclosure Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale also reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for dividing and enclosing the Open Fields, Meadows, Pastures, Commons, and Waste Grounds lying within the Parish of Ratcliffe-upon-Trent in the County of Nottingham," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; that the Parties concerned had given their Consents to the Satisfaction of the Committee; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and made some Amendments thereto."

Ordered, That the said Bill be re-committed to the same Committee, and that they do meet to consider the said Bill on Monday next.

Newcastle Play-house Bill.

The Lord Scarsdale reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act to enable His Majesty to licence a Play-house in the Town and County of the Town of Newcastle-upon-Tyne," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

British Fisheries Bill.

Ordered, That the Bill, intituled, "An Act more effectually to protect the Fisheries on the Coasts of that Part of Great Britain called England, and the Principality of Wales, and for the Punishing of Offences against the Persons and Property of Owners of Vessels and others concerned therein," be re-committed to a Committee of the whole House on Monday next.

Edinburgh Streets Bill:

The Earl of Moray reported from the Lords Committees, to whom the Bill, intituled, "An Act for making a Road from Saint Bernard's Street in the Town of Leith, to the Foot of Leith Walk in the County of Edinburgh; and for widening and enlarging certain Streets in the City of Edinburgh and the Avenues leading to the same; and for amending Two several Acts passed relative to the said City in the Twenty-fifth and Twenty-sixth Years of His present Majesty's Reign," was committed: "That they had considered the said Bill, and examined the Allegations thereof, which were found to be true; and that the Committee had gone through the Bill, and directed him to report the same to the House, without any Amendment."

Motion to recommit Bill negatived:

Moved "That the said Bill be re-committed."

Which being objected to;

After Debate,

The Question was put thereupon?

It was resolved in the Negative.

Read the Third Time:

Then the said Bill was read the Third Time.

The Question was put, "Whether this Bill shall pass?"

It was resolved in the Affirmative.

Message to H. C. that the Lords have agreed to it.

A Message was sent to the House of Commons, by the former Messengers:

To acquaint them, That the Lords have agreed to the said Bill, without any Amendment.

Prince of Wales's Debts, Address on His Majesty's Message.

The Order of the Day being read for taking into Consideration His Majesty's most gracious Message to this House on Monday last; and for the Lords to be summoned:

The said Message was read by the Clerk.

Ordered, Nemine Dissentiente, That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, to return His Majesty the Thanks of this House for His most gracious Message.

To express to His Majesty the Sense which this House entertains of His Majesty's uniform Attention and Regard to the Interests and Happiness of His People, which cannot be more fully demonstrated than by the Direction which His Majesty has given for augmenting the annual Allowance to the Prince of Wales out of His Majesty's Civil List, in order to avoid an Increase of the Public Expences, and at the same Time to remove every possible Doubt of the Sufficiency of His Royal Highness's Income to support amply the Dignity of His Situation.

"That His Majesty may depend upon the dutiful Attachment of this House, and of its cheerful Concurrence in any Measures which may afford His Majesty the Assistance He desires, on an Occasion so interesting to His Majesty's Feelings, and to the Ease and Honour of so distinguished a Branch of His Royal Family."

Ordered, That the said Address be presented to His Majesty by the Lords with white Staves.

Adjourn.

Dominus Cancellarius declaravit præsens Parliamentum continuandum esse usque ad et in diem Lunæ, vicesimum octavum diem instantis Maii, horâ undecimâ Auroræ, Dominis sic decernentibus.