America and West Indies: August 1686

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1899.

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'America and West Indies: August 1686', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687, ed. J W Fortescue( London, 1899), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp224-239 [accessed 29 November 2024].

'America and West Indies: August 1686', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Edited by J W Fortescue( London, 1899), British History Online, accessed November 29, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp224-239.

"America and West Indies: August 1686". Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 12 1685-1688 and Addenda 1653-1687. Ed. J W Fortescue(London, 1899), , British History Online. Web. 29 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol12/pp224-239.

August 1686

Aug. 1.
Windsor.		 800. The King to Governor Lord Howard of Effingham. We have been informed of the irregular and tumultuous meetings of the House of Burgesses in the late meeting of the Assembly of Virginia. We approve greatly of your action, and as a mark of our displeasure with the Burgesses, we bid you dissolve the present Assembly, that the inhabitants may have the opportunity, at such time as you think fit, of choosing better members. Further, Robert Beverley shall be declared incapable of holding any public office, and shall be prosecuted with the utmost severity for defacing the records of the Assembly. You will appoint the Clerk of the Assembly when it next meets, and will permit no one but the person whom you appoint to hold the office. We expect the Assembly to grant him the usual allowance. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIII., p. 119.]
Aug. 2.
Portsmouth.		 801. Richard Waldern and others to the President and Council of New England. We, the undersigned, being met together for business, wish to express our great concern at the removal of our records to Boston without the privity or knowledge of any authority here. To save possible damage or tampering with them, we beg that care may be taken of them, and that Captain Stileman, who is best acquainted with them, may be placed in charge and be appointed Clerk and Recorder, as formerly. Signed, Richard Waldern, Richd. Martyn, Wm. Vaughan, John Gillman, John Woodman, Sam. Sherbourne. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 19.]
Aug. 3. 802. Minutes of Council of Barbados. The writs for the new Assembly returned. List of the members, who were sworn. The letter from the Lords of Trade, touching Mr. Daniel's complaint against Sir Richard Dutton, read. Ordered that the evidence relating thereto be taken on the 13th instant; all parties concerned to take notice thereof. The King's letter appointing Mr. Richard Harwood to the Council read. Address from the Council, praying that he be not admitted till certain representations of theirs be laid before the Lords of Trade. The Governor replied that he could not disobey the Royal orders. The address was ordered to be entered, setting forth Mr. Harwood's servile condition, personal inability, and other scandalous circumstances. The Assembly presented John Reid as their Speaker, who was approved; and the Lieutenant-Governor then adjourned them for a month, by reason of his ill state of health. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XI., pp. 707–712.]
Aug. 3. 803. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. List of Members.
St. Michael's Captain Richard Barrett.
Thomas Morris.
St. Peter's and All Saints' Captain John Baily.
Morgan Lewis.
St. Thomas' Colonel John Farmer.
John Davies.
St. John's Major John Leslie.
John Bromley.
Christchurch Colonel Robert Bishop.
Lieut-Colonel Richard Elliott.
St. Lucy Lieut-Colonel Michael Tyrrell.
Captain Thomas Dowden.
St. James' John Reid.
Major Abel Allen.
St. Philip Willoughby Chamberlayne.
Captain Peter Evans.
St. Andrew Captain John Mills.
William Dotten.
St. George Major Richard Salter.
Captain John Cousins.
St. Joseph Colonel John Waterman.
Captain Edward Binney.
John Reid chosen Speaker, Richard Cartwright, Clerk, and William Geddis, Marshal. Rules of the House Passed. Adjourned to 31 August. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., pp. 159–160.]
Aug. 3. 804. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. John Favell examined. Copy of the examination to be sent to the Assembly, that the persons mentioned by him may be examined also. Favell discharged from custody, on his promise not to quit the Island without leave.
Aug. 4. Adam Cooper examined as to Favell's business, and discharged on giving security to appear at the next Grand Court. Message from the Assembly, sending the declarations in writing of the members concerned in Favell's business. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 127–131.]
Aug. 4.
Jamaica.		 805. Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth to the Earl of Sunderland. The proceedings of the pirates in the South Seas will, doubtless, cause us a great noise when the merchants of Europe come to know the extent of their losses, so I thought that some account of these affairs would be acceptable. I have found it difficult to obtain information, since no one here will be known to correspond with those in the South Seas. Reports in favour of the pirates have frequently been raised by ill men, to tempt others to join them, so that I can never depend on what is said. Recently five or six persons arrived from these parts, and failing to seize them, I was obliged to employ others to try to bring the most rational of them before me, on conditions of pardon. I have, I think, succeeded in obtaining a true narrative of all their proceedings, from their last expedition to the time when my informant left them. Though he kept no journal, he relates the events in succession as they passed. I send copy of his examination, from which you will see that though they have prejudiced the Spaniard much, they have gained little for themselves, their parties being broken up by difficulties and discouragements, and those that remain anxious to get away as soon as they can. Yet, before I got this person, it was reported that twelve hundred of the pirates were settled ashore, and that four Dutch ships had joined them. You will see, therefore, the necessity of granting a pardon to gain such intelligence. I send you by this ship a prisoner supposed to be John Webber, who was apprehended here on the advice of Colonel Stede. Signed, Hder. Molesworth. Holograph. 4 pp. Annexed,
805. I. The examination of Richard Arnold. Left Jamaica to join Captain Peter Harris in the South Seas on 16 June 1684. Joined him at Golden Island, where the party mustered ninety-six whites and three Indians. There obtained a guide to take them against the stockades, which were their object, some thirty leagues distant. Together with about 300 Indians they attacked and took the stockade, where they shared a hundred shares of about twenty-four ounces of gold-dust apiece. They also took a barque of the Spanish King's, of four patararoes and thirty men, with 1,000l. sterling in gold dust. Took eight large canoes, and, leaving the Indians behind, went down the river Andreile and took another vessel laden with provisions and wine; thence proceeded to the King's Cays, some two leagues from Panama, took ten empty barques of the pearl fleet, and, fitting out three of them, sailed to Cape Clare, southward of Panama. Cruised to westward, and were attacked by five barques fitted out from Panama to take them, but beat them off with heavy loss. Stood further away to westward, where found a ship at anchor, which proved to be Captain Swan's of about 140 tons, 16 guns, and 20 men. Agreed with him for his ship at ten shares, himself at two, and his boy at half a share; manned his ship and abandoned the others, and stood to southward to join one Captain John Cooke, said to have come out in a Dutch ship of thirty-six guns. Found his ship, of seventy-five men, at the Isle of Plate, in command of Captain Davis, Cooke having died. Davis had a prisoner on board, who undertook to guide them to Guayaquil. Sailed thither, sent 130 men up the river in canoes, and landed two leagues from the town. Here Swan, seeing many lights in the town, concluded them to be lighted matches, and refused to march further. Swan and Davis had a dispute over it, and the party returned, much discontented with Swan, the prisoner saying that they might have made 500l. a man in gold. Thence sailed to Payta, landed ninety men, took it, plundered and burnt it. Endeavoured to surprise Pura, but finding themselves discovered, returned to the ship. After this failure stood to westward again to the Cays, to intercept the Spanish fleet from Callao. Stayed there about five months, during which time two French parties came overland and joined them. To one leader, Captain Francois, they gave a ship of 400 tons, which had been captured, with a dozen more, at the Cays. Three more parties, under Englishmen and mostly English, then joined them from overland. It was then resolved to pursue the design against the Spanish fleet, and to appoint Davis admiral, and Swan vice-admiral. Swan refused to fight under any but English colours, since he had lost two men in fair trade with the Spaniards, so wore the King's jack at the foretopmast head. The plans for the attack were laid. Meanwhile, the Spanish fleet passed unseen in the offing, and landed its money about ten leagues to westward of Panama, then proceeded to sea with eleven sail and two fire-ships, and came unexpectedly upon the privateers, when one of the principal French ships, which should have seconded Davis, deserted. Next day, the Spaniards being to windward, the privateers made a running fight of it, and sailed to Quito, where they built new canoes and attacked and took the city of Leon, but made no plunder, having been discovered as they entered the harbour. Then took and burnt Rio Leo, which, however, afforded nothing valuable, except naval stores. Here the fleet divided, about June 1685, Swan and others sailing for California to try their fortunes there, and thence round the Phillippines for the East Indies, and so home (as they said); Davis and a fireship designing to sail westward again for Truxillo. Examinant went with Davis, who missed Truxillo and made for Samia. To prevent discovery, Davis marched for Samia, some seven leagues up the country, with two hundred men, took it, and shared about three hundred dollars apiece in money and plate. On returning, found a storehouse with 10,000 lbs. weight of indigo, but could not ship it for the heavy sea. Thence marched to attack Pura, ten leagues to leeward of Samia, but were betrayed by an Irishman, who was taken prisoner by the Spaniards. The betrayal, however, was discovered to them by the master of a small barque which they took, so abandoned Pura for Payta, where there were said to be two ships with four hundred negroes. Took the town and ships, but only about forty negroes, whereupon examinant and thirty-eight more deserted, and he returned ultimately to Port Royal. Davis, when examinant left him, had two hundred and fifty men, and had designs on a town a little to southward of Lima, after which he meant to go through Magellan's Strait and return overland by way of Darien. In another four months, therefore, all the privateers will have come away. The privateers never settled on any island, nor fortified the same, as reported. Signed, Hder. Molesworth. 6 closely written pages. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., Nos. 20, 20I.]
Aug. 4. Duplicate of foregoing despatch and enclosure. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., Nos. 21 21I.]
Aug. 4. Another copy of the enclosure. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 22.]
Aug. 5. 806. Minutes of Council and Assembly of St. Christopher's. The Governor and Council desired the Assembly to consider the question of finishing the fort on Cleverley Hill. The Assembly declined to consider it at present. The Assembly called attention to the fact that the King's Collector refuses to take sugar at the rate of the Island, notwithstanding the Act. Order that no person enter on the office of Provost Marshal without first giving security. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., p. 59.]
Aug. 5.
Hartford.		 807. The Governor of Connecticut to Governor Dongan. We have been served with two Quo Warrantos, one bearing date July 8, 1685, the other served on the 20th July 1686. I beg your advice as to how to manage our affairs, so as to gain the King's favour and the continuance of our former privileges. Our last news from Boston is the seizure of eighty butts of Malaga wine and brandy, which, if lawfully seized, will be a good supply of that cherring commodity. I send copy of Randolph's letter. Signed, R. Treat. P.S.—News has just come of a pirate lying between Rhode Island and the Vineyard, said to have robbed five vessels from these parts. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 9 May '87. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 23.]
Aug. 5.
Warwick.		 808. John Greene to Governor Dongan. I have been nominated messenger by the Governor and Council. I wished to have another joined with me, but this has been defeated by some evil-minded persons, who would bring us under Massachusetts. There will be scrawls enough gathered from one. To-morrow the Governor and Council meet again to settle the question finally, and if it be decided that I do go the voyage, I hope to be ready to sail in three weeks. Thank you for your great respect shown to our poor, despised Colony. Signed, John Greene. Holograph. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 9 May 87, from Colonel Dongan. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 24.]
Aug. 6.
Rhode
Island.		 809. Commission appointing John Greene to carry a letter and address from the Governor and Company of Rhode Island to the King, and explain if need be what is required by the Colony. Signed, Walter Clark, Governor. Copy. 1 p. Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 25.]
Aug. 6. 810. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Three private Bills received from the Assembly read. On the request of the Assembly, the Lieutenant-Governor permitted them to adjourn for a few days. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 131–132a.]
[Aug. 6.] 811. Proposals as to the fees to be paid to the Secretary and Registrar of New England. Evidently emanating from Edward Randolph. Copy. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Aug. 86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 26.]
[Aug. 6.] 812. Table of fees granted by the President and Council to Edward Randolph, Secretary and Registrar of New England. Voted by the Council June 15, 1686. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Aug. '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 27.]
Aug. 7.
Windsor.		 813. The Dutch Ambassador to the King. Repeats the earlier portion of his memorial of May 1st (see No. 649), and continues:— I now learn that Sir William Stapleton has gone to France to drink the waters, so I repeat my request, having received no answer to the first, except verbally to the effect that Sir William Stapleton would soon return. News has since been received of his death, and that he gave no reason for his refusal to cede Tortola except lack of the King's orders. I beg, therefore, that, without further search for information from other sources, the Island may be restored. Signed, Arnout van Citters. French. 2½ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 28.]
Aug. 7.
Windsor.		 814. The Earl of Sunderland to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Announcing the appointment of Sir Nathaniel Johnson to be Governor of the Leeward Islands. Signed, Sunderland. Endorsed. Recd. 16 Aug. '86. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 29, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVII., p. 200.]
Aug. 10.
Nevis.		 815. The Clerk of Assembly of Nevis to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Forwarding the transactions of the Assembly from 27 August 1685 to 1 May 1686. Signed, Tho. Thorne. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVI., No. 43.]
Aug. 15.
Windsor.		 816. Warrant for the delivery of forty iron guns from the Ordnance stores for Barbados. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 378.]
Aug. 16. 817. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Letter to Lord Howard of Effingham, concerning Sarah Bland signed. Ordered that Sir Robert Robinson be given a sight of the instructions preparing for him.
The Lord President's letter reporting the appointment of Sir Nathaniel Johnson to be Governor of the Leeward Islands read. Order for preparation of draft commission and instructions for him. Mr. Powell's letter from Antigua of 8 April read (see No. 622). Agreed that he be directed to obey the orders of the Lord Treasurer or Commissioners of Customs in respect of the plantation trade with Ireland.
Office accounts signed. Memorandum of documents sent and received. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 8–10.]
Aug. 22. 818. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. The Assembly attended, and the Governor made them a speech, ordering the Speaker to put it roundly to the vote whether the Assembly would tax itself or no. Message from the Assembly that the vote had been put and passed in the affirmative. Three private Bills proceeded with. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 131a, 132.]
Aug. 21.
Rhode
Island.		 819. Address of Randolph Holden to the King. Recounts the history of the dispute over the Narragansett Country. Of late Edward Cranfield came over, pretending a commission to hold a Court in the country. His associates were, many of them, the gentlemen who style themselves the proprietors of the Narragansett Country, who, being met by a prohibition, departed without any further proceedings. But since Joseph Dudley has been installed President, they have taken the government of the province from us, and by a Committee, consisting of Elisha Hutchinson and John Saffin of Boston, formed to dispose of those lands, they have been making sale and merchandise of them, turning your Majesty's province to their private advantage and to your great loss, unless you choose to appoint some person unconcerned therein to dispose of them. I am ready to give the best intelligence I can. Signed, Randall Howldon. Large sheet, closely written. Endorsed. Presented at Committee, 19 Jan. 1686–7. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 30.]
Aug. 21.
New York.		 820. Land grants issued by Governor Dongan, to John Spragge (page 1), Richard Gibbs (page 2), James Graham, and John Delavall (pages 3, 4). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXIII., pp. 1–4]
Aug. 21. 821. Affidavit of Cornelius Creyke. That 11,000 lbs. weight of elephants' teeth was taken from the Mariner's Adventure by the sloop that piloted her to Sandy Hook. ½ p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 31.]
Aug. 22. 822. The King to Governor Lord Howard of Effingham. Declaring the Act of 1662, which allows quit-rents to be paid in tobacco, to be repealed; the rents to be paid in money in future. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 112–113.]
Aug. 22. 823. The King to Lieutenant-Governor Stede. Approving the grant of 1,000l. made to Stede by the Assembly, and permitting him to accept it. Countersigned, Sunderland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 382.]
Aug. 23.
Boston.		 824. Edward Randolph to Lords of Trade and Plantations. The Governments of Connecticut and Rhode Island, being encouraged underhand by the faction here, are not without hopes of recovering their charters. The last General Court was continued by adjournment, and is to meet on the second Wednesday in October, and as yet the President and Council, though often moved by me to declare that adjournment illegal, have done nothing to discountenance it. On the contrary, they have preferred divers of the magistrates and others of the late Government to commands in the Militia and to be justices of the peace. As Secretary and Registrar, I asked for the records of the General Court, and obtained an order for the purpose, but some of the Council had encouraged the late Secretary to keep them in his custody that you might not know what large tracts of land they have bestowed on each other. They are still at this day making all the land in this Government sure to themselves; in which project is Captain Blackwell, Treasurer to the Army in Cromwell's time, and son-in- law to Lambert, although he was excepted in the Act of Pardon of 12 Car. II. They likewise refuse to let me have an account of the receipts and disbursements of their late Treasurers, which I have often demanded in order to shew you the rates and taxes imposed upon the people (against the will of most of the inhabitants) to defend the Charter. The great favour of liberty of conscience granted to this people may shortly appear to be of ill consequence to the Government, unless the Governor-General be empowered to limit them in their extravagant use of it. It is plain that though the King has appointed several of the late Government to the Council, yet they retain their old principles. The Governor-General should also have power to displace Councillors who oppose the King's interests, and elect others in their stead, as it will be impossible to raise a revenue. Great numbers of people are coming to this country from Britain. One ship has now brought us sixty passengers, with two Nonconformist ministers. I have pressed that all persons over sixteen years of age should give in their names and an account of themselves, and take the oath of allegiance, but this was looked upon as a great discouragement to good people, and is referred to the instructions of the Governor-General. I find the country dissatisfied for want of an Assembly of representatives from the several towns in the Government, with power to raise money and make laws. The great matters they aim at are a general pardon, a confirmation of the property of all lands and possessions, and the establishment of Independency by law. They are very cold and backward towards my proposals to raise a revenue by quit-rents and a duty on imports, which, when Rhode Island and Connecticut are added to this Government, may amount to nigh 4,000l. a year. Part of this should be devoted to the maintenance of officers in the several ports of the country (as in New York). No men of credit will undertake that trust, unless they have a competent allowance for it. A pirate of fourteen guns and a hundred men has been lately on the coast. Captain St. Loe was ordered out, but came too late, the pirate having robbed two sloops laden with provisions, and sailed to the West Indies. Not long since, Grammont, a Frenchman, with a ship of fifty guns, lay off Carolina, and wished to trade, which was refused him. Signed, Ed. Randolph. Holograph. 3 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 21 Oct. Read, 24 Oct. 1686. [Col. Papers. Vol. LVIII., No. 32, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXI., pp. 332–335.]
Aug. 23.
New York.		 825. Entry of the cargo of the ship Mariner's Adventure. Signed, John Smith, Collector. Scrap. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 33.]
Aug. 23.
New York.		 826. William Wilson to Governor Dongan. I fear that I have incurred your disfavour. Captain Santon lately shewed me the "Present State of England," wherein I found that the English had liberty to trade either in the East or West Indies in any place belonging to the Portuguese, which would help in relation to our ships. He told me that he had found nothing wherein they lay liable to seizure, that as I had made a free report of all our goods and entered them I might ship them on any ship that I pleased, and that if anyone should stop them I had a good right of action. Mr. Smith told me the same, so I could do no less than readily embrace the offer in discharging my trust to the gentlemen concerned. I hope that my proceedings, being for the benefit of the owners, cannot be construed as a disrespect to you; on the contrary, when Mr. Smith told me there was an antipathy between you and Captain Santon, and grown to such a height that the master of both must decide it, I thought it my duty not to concern myself therein. Signed, William Wilson. ½ p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 34.]
Aug. 24. 827. Agreement between Governor Dongan, William Wolliford, and William Wilson, that all the goods in the Mariner's Adventure that come to the Custom House are to remain there until security has been given to answer any claims of the Royal African Company. Signed, William Wilson. ½ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 35.]
Aug. 24. 828. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. The Assembly attended. The Lieutenant-Governor assented to three private bills, and prorogued the Assembly to September 16th. Order for payment of three months' salary to the Lieutenant-Governor. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXVI., pp. 132–133.]
Aug. 25.
Rhodo
Island.		 829. Address of the Quakers of Rhode Island to the King. We and our predecessors in this county have been here near forty-nine years, having left Boston whence we were driven by those who pretend to be refined Christians. We understand that the authorities, with the free consent of most of the inhabitants, have laid themselves at your feet on receiving the writ of Quo Warranto against the Charter. We beg that even if the Government be altered, we may enjoy the religious indulgence granted by the Charter and the indulgence in the matter of oaths, that our solemn promise may pass instead of an oath, and that we may be excused from bearing arms. Signed, on behalf of the Quakers, John Easton, Dan. Gould, Edward Thurston, Giles Slocum, John Rodman, John Easton, jun. 3¼ pp. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 36.]
Aug. 26. 830. Earl of Middleton to the Dutch Ambassador. In reply to your memorial (see No. 813), the King will give orders for the restitution of Tortola. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 37.]
Aug. 28.
Boston.		 831. Petition of Edward Randolph to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I was granted the posts of Secretary and Registrar of New England, in reward for much arduous service. On the establishment of the new Government, I produced my commission and asked for the records of my office, but the President and Council have appointed other persons to perform the office of registrar in different parts of the country. They have also refused me the sum of eighty pounds paid to the former Secretary for clerks and other expenses. I continue to do my duty as Secretary, although thus defrauded of my due; but I beg that this salary and the fees and perquisites of my office as sole Registrar may be paid to me. Signed, Ed. Randolph. 2½ pp. Endorsed. Presented at the Committee, 24 Oct. 1686. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 38.]
Aug. 30.
Windsor.		 832. Warrant for the establishment of two foot-companies for the royal service in New England. Each company to consist of captain, lieutenant, ensign, two sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, fifty privates. The rates of pay of each rank are set down, being the same as in England. A surgeon at 2s. 6d. a day is added, and tenpence a day is allowed for contingencies. Total cost per day, £5 14s. 0d., per year £2,080 10s. 0d. Countersigned, Sunderland, Rochester. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 39.]
Aug. 30. 833. Grants by the Proprietors of Carolina of one hundred acres of land to Isaac le Grand, Sieur d'Anarville, and the same to Mr. James Le Moyne, they having each paid five pounds for the same. Signed, Craven, Albemarle, P. Colleton. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXII., p. 84.]
Aug. 30. 834. Commission from Lord Craven appointing James Colleton, Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the province of Carolina South and West of Cape Fear. Signed, Craven. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXII., p. 85.]
Aug. 30. 835. Instrument authorising James Colleton or some one of the Landgraves in his place to let land to immigrants in the Proprietors' name. Form of indenture for the purpose. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXII., pp. 87–90.]
Aug. 30. 836. Instructions for the granting of land in Carolina. (1.) On every navigable river five hundred acres is to be reserved for the port town, chosen for convenience of shipping and of storing merchandise. (2.) Encouragement to persons to build in that port town. (3.) Ferries must be appointed on every navigable river, and a thousand acres set out, the holding of which must be conditional on the maintenance of the ferry. (4–6.) Rules as to allotment of land to Landgraves and Caciques, and (7–12) to others who have rights by purchase. (13, 14.) Rules as to river frontage. (15.) No grants to be passed above thirty miles south of Stono, nor above fifty miles north of Ashley and Cooper rivers. (16, 17.) Rules as to reservation of plots for towns. (18.) Any free emigrant over sixteen years of age may be granted fifty acres of land on lease, with fifty more for each servant that he imports over sixteen, and forty acres for every one under that age. The servants to receive fifty acres, at a rent of one penny per acre at the expiration of their time. Form of warrant for land-grants. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXII., pp. 91–97.]
Aug. 30.
Barbados.		 837. The Lieutenant-Governor and Council of Barbados to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Forwarding quarterly returns of the transactions of Council and of imports. Signed, Edwyn Stede, Francis Bond, Christopher Codrington, John Hallett, Tim. Thornhill, Thomas Walrond. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 396.]
Aug. 31. 838. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. Two members only present, who, after waiting till three o'clock, adjourned to the 28th of September. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., p. 160.]
Aug. 31.
Bermuda.		 839. Lieutenant-Governor Molesworth to William Blathwyt. The frigates are returned from looking after Banister for the second time. They found his ship burnt, she having been much disabled by their shot, but the pirates abandoned her and went away in their smaller vessel. On Captain Sprag's first arrival (about a week before Captain Talbot's), he found about twenty men on the little island, who fired some small shot at him but immediately fled over to the Main. He thinks it probable that Banister was among them. The French, after the disabling of his ship, refused to obey him, and it is believed that some of the French, owing to their disputes with him, set fire to the ship. Sprag brought away twenty of her best guns in a sloop, but she has not yet arrived here, having been driven to the north side of the island by stress of weather. I am now sending out the Drake to wait for a sloop that is suspected to be gone for some of the seamen of the company of the six mentioned in a former letter. I have taken no measures yet against the other five, as it would alarm too much those for whom I lie in wait, and perhaps cause me to lose them. But as soon as they are settled I shall use all diligence to bring the rest to condign punishment. This can be better done by allowing them a little time to gain a false feeling of security, than by seeking them at once, when they are cautious.
The Assembly having made some other proposals to raise the money, wherein they took care to save themselves, I told them plainly that I would agree to no other method but taxation of themselves, and desired them to put it at once to the vote whether they would tax themselves or not. They agreed to do so, but only by the vote of the chairman; but next day, when the adverse party was strengthened by the votes of a member or two who had been sick on the previous day, they did all they could to confound that vote. When therefore it was put to the question, upon what the tax should be laid, the majority were for a tax on land, to be reckoned by the acre, hoping that, the method being so unfair, it would never pass. The difference in the value of land is so great that, while some is worth 20l. an acre, other is not worth half-a-crown. I prorogued them to the 16th September, giving time to those who live at the greatest distance to consider their interest, so that the business at the next meeting will be very short. I intend that they shall either raise the money on themselves by some equal tax or leave all else undone, for I do not mean them to proceed either with Negro Bill, which is so necessary for them, or any other business, till that be done. Two public and three private Acts have been passed, which I shall probably send home by next ship. Recd. 10 Dec. 1686. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXI., pp. 191–196.]
[August.]
Bermuda.		 840. Governor Richard Cony to the Earl of Sunderland. I have caused the King's letter to be published, have caused all proofs to be received by the Council, and send copies of all the proceedings. I have seized five of the principal ringleaders and sent them prisoners on board H.M.S. Dartmouth, to be delivered to you. I should not have troubled you with them, but their combination and accomplices are so strong that I cannot safely bring them to trial here. I received letters from the Governor of Nevis, asking me to deliver up Captain Sharpe, on a charge of piracy. As I have already reported, I was forced to retain him for the King's service to suppress the rebellion here, which he did. What may be proved against him I know not, but he has shewn himself a loyal and good subject, and an extraordinary instrument in preserving the King's peace. I have written to the Governor of Nevis and New England to beg that, if condemned, he, his lieutenant, and his master may, ere they suffer, be sent to you to maintain their evidence on the King's behalf. Many have already been sent to you. Captain St. Loe is urgent to sail, so I say no more. Signed, Richard Cony. Holograph. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., No. 40, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XVIII., p. 92.]
[August.] 841. A collection of depositions enclosed with the preceding despatch from Governor Cony.
841. I. Depositions of William Phips, John Bee, and others. That they heard William Keele say that he would not deliver up his Commissions, but would keep possession of the forts. Sworn, 3 June 1685. Certified copy. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. II. Deposition of Stephen Righton. As to an attempt to tamper with a jury on the part of Richard Stafford. May 16, 1679. Certified copy. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. III. Deposition of Bartholomew Sharpe. That when Richard Stafford was delivered as a prisoner on board his ship, a paper was found on him to the effect that part of the country were ready to rescue him by force. Sworn June 27, 1686. Certified copy. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. IV. Depositions of Paul Abney, Sharpe's lieutenant, confirming the preceding. Sworn 28 June 1686, and before the Council 19 August 1686. Certified copy. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. V. Depositions of Thomas Valley, Sharpe's master, confirming the preceding. Sworn 28 June 1686. Certified copy. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. VI. Deposition of Paul Abney. That Stafford had mentioned to him a conspiracy to buy arms and put down Captain Sharpe by force; and that Hugh Wentworth, told him the same. Deposition of Hugh Wentworth, contradicting the above. Sworn 30 June 1686. 1 p. Certified copy. Endorsed.
841. VII. Minutes of Council of Bermuda. August 3.—The King's letter as to the charges of William Righton and William Milborne against Governor Cony read. Righton deposed to words used by Richard Stafford, that the country with one shoulder should shove this Government out.
August 9.—The Governor proposed that the Council should take the sacrament on Wednesday next. The Council agreed as to taking it, but asked for more time for preparation. The Council proceeded to the hearing of evidence on Milborne's and Righton's charges against the Governor, but it was resolved that the Governors complaints should be first heard; and he laid his information against Christopher Burrows accordingly.
August 10.—William Peniston was called, but did not appear. Bartholomew Sharpe gave evidence as to bringing away William Righton's sloop. 2½ pp.
841. VIII. Deposition of Jonathan Stokes. That William Keele and George Bascom, on 20 October 1685, came up to him while on duty at Pagett's fort, and told him that they were come on the King's service to review the stock of powder, and that if he wouldn't open the door, they would. Sworn before Council, 3 August 1686. Certified copy. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. IX. Deposition of Francis Tucker. That William Keele denied his authority when he was sent to Smith's fort by the Governor. Sworn August 4, 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XI. Deposition of John Vardill. As to his forcible expultold him that he had been put into Smith's fort by King Charles, and that if deponent came there he would make his blood fly. Sworn as the foregoing. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XI. Deposition of John Vardill. As to his forcible expulsion by Christopher Burrows and others from a stranded vessel which he had been sent by the Governor to fetch into harbour. Sworn 9 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XII. Deposition of John Harlow, confirming the preceding. Sworn 9 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XIII. Deposition of Thomas Swan, to same effect. Sworn 9 August 1686. 1 Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XIV. Deposition of Caleb Wright, to same effect. Sworn 9 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. XV. Deposition of William Pearman, to same effect. Sworn 9 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. XVI. Deposition of John Hubbard. That Christopher Burrows brought away the arms which he had taken from the Governor's people on board the French vessel. Sworn 9 August. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XVII. Deposition of John Searles as to the assault made by Christopher Burrows on the Governor. Sworn 9 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XVIII. Deposition of Mary Storman on the same. Sworn 9 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XIX. Depositions of Jonathan Ming and Roger Browne on the same. Sworn 9 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XX. Deposition of Sibella Righton. As to a design of John Hubbard, Richard Stafford, and William Righton, to endeavour to prove charges against the Governor. Sworn 9 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXI. Deposition of Mary Storman. That she saw William Righton shake his cane at the Governor and call him beggarly fellow. Sworn 10 August. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXII. Deposition of Bartholomew Sharpe. That he heard William Righton call the late Company a pack of knaves. Sworn 10 August. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXIII. Deposition of Jane Hubbard. As to ill words spoken by William Righton against the Governor. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXIV. Depositions of Bartholomew Sharpe and Richard Phillips as to disrespectful language and behaviour of William Righton towards the Governor. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXV. Deposition of Copeland Lea. As to several meetings held by William Righton and Richard Stafford for addressing the King as to grievances. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXVI. Deposition of William Righton. That Richard Stafford never spoke to him about shouldering the Governor out. Sworn 10 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXVII. Deposition of Richard Stafford. As to words and behaviour of William Righton of ill consequence to the Governor. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXVIII. Depositions of Francis Tucker and John Hubbard. As to rude behaviour of William Milborne to the Council. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXIX. Deposition of Joseph Milbourn. As to a negro boy that the Governor tried to take from him by force. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXX. Deposition of Michael Brown. As to the countenancing of a mulatto thief by the Governor. Sworn 10 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. XXXI. Deposition of George Bascom. As to the presenting of articles against Henry Durham to the Governor and Council. Sworn 10 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXXII. Deposition of John Tucker. That the articles against Henry Durham were read. Sworn 10 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXXIII. Deposition of Francis Watlington. As to violent and seditious language used by William Peniston. Sworn 10 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXXIV. Deposition of John Stone. As to the drawing up of articles by Samuel Trott against the Governor and of words used by him on the occasion. Sworn 10 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. XXXV. Deposition of Samuel Trott. Remembers nothing of the matters described by preceding witness. Sworn 10 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XXXVI. Deposition of Samuel Trott. As to articles exhibited by William Righton against Henry Durham. Sworn 10 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. XXXVII. Depositions of Bartholomew Sharpe and Thomas Valley. As to Samuel Trott's design to proceed with proofs of the articles against the Governor before the King's letter could reach him. Sworn 10 August. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. XXXVIII. Deposition of John Argent. That Righton's charge against Durham did come before the Assembly. Sworn 10 August. Scrap.
841. XXXIX. Minutes of Council of Bermuda. 12–14 August. Examination of several witnesses. 3½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 23 Nov. 86.
841. XL. Deposition of Joseph Stow. That the Governor committed William Milbourne for saying that the King was only supreme head of the Church under Christ. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLI. Deposition of Stephen Righton. That the Governor forced him to pay fees for two sea-briefs. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLII. Deposition of Francis Jones. That the Governor made him pay powder-money to himself, saying he would not trust the Sheriff with it. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLIII. Deposition of Richard Peniston. That the Governor made him swear that the King was supreme of the Church. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLIV. Deposition of Stephen Righton. That he saw the Governor strike his brother William twice with his cane, on no provocation. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLV. Deposition of Anthony White. To the same effect as No. XLII. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLVI. Deposition of Francis Dickenson. To the same effect. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLVII. Deposition of Richard Pitt. That he has several times paid the Governor fees for sea-briefs. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLVIII. Deposition of Michael Burrow to same effect. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. XLIX. Deposition of William Pitt. That the fee of five shillings for sea-briefs has been long established as a custom. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. L. Deposition of Anthony White. That though of the Assembly he heard nothing of William Righton's articles against Henry Durham. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LI. Deposition of Lawrence Dill to same effect. Sworn 12 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LII. Deposition of Samuel Trott. That William Righton did present articles in the Assembly against Henry Durham. Sworn 12 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. LIII. Deposition of Joseph Hinson. As to abuse and blows given to Christopher Burrows by the Governor. Sworn 12 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. LIV. Deposition of Thomas Burton. In confirmation of the preceding. Sworn 12 August 1686. 1 p. Endorsed.
841. LV. Deposition of William Righton. That Richard Stafford told him he had paid £12 to John Tucker in England, to carry on the complaint against the Governor. Sworn 14 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LVI. Deposition of John Scarles. That William Righton coming into the Governor's presence with his hat on, his brother being with him, the Governor put off his hat with his stick. Sworn 14 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LVII. Deposition of the same. As to the words used by John Ballinger, "If this be serving the King, let us serve the King no longer." Sworn 14 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LVIII. Deposition of Bartholomew Sharpe. As to his arrest of John Ballinger on the Governor's order. Sworn 14 August 1686. Scrap. Endorsed.
841. LIX. Deposition of Richard Stafford. That he never wrote or received a letter while in prison on board Sharpe's ship. Sworn 14 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed.
841. LX. Deposition of Captain George St. Loe. As to an attempt of a witness, James Farmer, to strike the Governor. Sworn 16 August 1686. ½ p. Endorsed. [Col. Papers, Vol. LVIII., Nos. 41 I–LX.]
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