|
| Jan. 1. |
681. William Blathwayt to Phineas Bowles. The order for a ship to carry the Governor of New York to his Government was long since given to Colonel Sloughter, when it was supposed that he would deliver it to you; but I now enclose a duplicate. Draft with corrections. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 101.] |
| Jan. 2. |
682. Instructions to Francis Nicholson as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIII., pp. 304, 305.] |
Jan. 2.
Whitehall. |
683. Order of the King in Council. Approving the appointment of William Cole as Secretary of Virginia. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 17.] |
Jan. 2.
Whitehall. |
684. Order of the King in Council. On report of Lords of Trade and Plantations, ordered that the fine of £600 imposed on John Towers (see No. 647) be remitted. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXII., p. 311.] |
Jan. 2.
Whitehall. |
685. Order of the King in Council. Referring the petition of William Ivy, John Towers and others to Lord Inchiquin for report. [Ibid. p. 326.] |
Jan. 3.
Hartford. |
686. The Council of Connecticut to the King. Congratulations on his accession. Under the late King we were under some uneasiness for our charter, but it was not surrendered by us, nor condemned. We beg that it may be confirmed. Signed. Robert Treat, Gov., John Allyn, Secrety. [Board of Trade. New England, 8. No. 52, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 171–172.] |
Jan. 6.
Whitehall. |
687. Commission to Dr. Joseph Hanmer to be chaplain of the garrison of New York. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., p. 245.] |
| Jan. 7. |
688. Deposition of John Howell as to the genuineness of receipt of Matthew Plowman for money raised under an Act made by Governor Dongan and Council. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 10 April, 1690. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 102.] |
Jan. 7.
Fort William,
New York. |
689. Jacob Leisler to the King. I have reported our transactions since the 20th of August to the Bishop of Salisbury. The letters of the Council of 29 and 30 July addressed to Captain Nicholson came to us, and were opened by me, as Commander-in-Chief (though two of Sir Edmund Andros's Council pretended thereto), to the general satisfaction. A second proclamation of your Majesties was made with suitable ceremony. Having already secured your interest we fear not our adversaries though they be considerable, not doubting so to settle the civil and military Government as to make it qualified to receive your further order. Signed. Jacob Leisler, Lieut. Gov. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 103.] |
Jan. 7.
Fort William,
New York. |
690. Jacob Leisler and his Council to the Bishop of Salisbury. We feel it our duty to give some account of this Government, and of its deliverance from the direful state in which it was enthralled by the arbitary and illegal commissions granted by King James. That our adversaires, constituted by these instruments, should not over-power us by their crafty devices, we caused writs to issue forth for the free election of civil and military officers, with a formal paper for
the electors to subscribe, which the major part did, despite the efforts of King James's party in correpondence with Sir E. Andros's party at Boston. This correspondence we cannot yet prevent, though some persons have been detected and some packets intercepted. We cannot enumerate all the inhuman practices of the said Andros, but we would instance his late undertaking with the infidels. The instrument that he put in his place during his absence, Francis Nicholson, and the pretended Protestant minister, Innes, have sent to England a formal submission to King William's Government, though in their Assembly they continued to pray for the Prince of Wales and for victory for King James. Albany and part of Ulster county have chiefly withstood us, influenced by Colonel Bayard and Stephen van Cortlandt, who at the celebrating of the Prince of Wales's birth sacrificed his hat, peruke, etc., to escape the indignation of the citizens and withdrew to Albany; where his advice to them to continue under Sir Edmund Andros's commissions suited their circumstances well (they having invaded the King's and other lands), and wrought accordingly. Soon after, the French with a considerable number of Indians alarmed them by threatening to attack Albany, which awakened New England. Thereupon 50 men were sent with arms to embrace proposals for peace and secure the country, who were well received by the most part of the citizens, excepting some who styled themselves a convention and persist in their former practices. But eighty well-affected men from New England keep the peace, and we hope that the enemy can not hurt us, for we have six hundred men and a fort with fourteen guns. Things arriving at this head Colonel Thomas Dongan, who was at his farm in Long Island, gave great encouragement to the former civil and military officers by holding cabals at his house and adjacent places to arrange for an attempt on the fort of New York. We disappointed them by forming ourselves into an association, which so nettled them that they used all endeavours to prevent men from signing. But though our numbers were lessened we still keep the major part. Many resort to our neighbours in the Jerseys and Pennsylvania, who are mostly Quakers. They encourage if not outdo the Roman Catholics and are the principal cause of our calamities. They assert Mr. Penn to be a man of undoubted sincerity, and say that King James's commissions are good to this day. Indeed Colonel Townley and others committed riot upon our justice and openly drank King James's health; but we hope to subdue these people in time. |
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So matters stood until December 9th, when the King's letters arrived. Some of Sir E. Andros's Council attended the messenger (although Captain Nicholson was gone) expecting that their names might be inserted and that so they might challenge them; but this was prevented by Captain Jacob Leisler. Next day their Majesties were again proclaimed. A Council was chosen of such as had faithfully served King William, in particular by securing the revenue, which action was abused by pamphlets, and our notices and orders torn down and defaced. We then settled the Magistracy, appointed Courts of Judicature, and proceeded to establish the Militia, in all which we met, in the circumstances, with indifferent success; and are resolved to collect the revenue for the
support of the Government. When Sir Edward Andros was here with Edward Randolph, most of the records and the seal were sent to Boston, which prevents us from reporting as fully as the case demands. We adventured to make a new seal altering the Duke's of York's Coronet and puttingthe Crown of England in its stead. Nothing can abate our service except the want of five and twenty twenty-four pounder cannon, arms and ammunition, in case the French visit us this spring; and we hope the King will afford us also a small vessel of war. |
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Since the above was written we have intercepted several of our enemies' letters. Therein you will see the horrible devices they invent, particularly in Colonel Bayard's letter to John West, of a plot to massacre them on New Year's day, which should be told him by Mrs. Van Cortlandt, whom he terms the Mayoress. We there-upon arrested Bayard, though Van Cortlandt and his wife fled; but Bayard would not admit any of his writings before us, though we can prove them to be his. The other most dangerous person is William Nichols, who has written one letter to Farwell, a notorious criminal at Boston, and another threatening poison, pistol and poniard to the posterity of Commander Leisler. He also would not own to any of the papers; but we hope to condignly punish both these persons (sic). Another letter was from Colonel Bayard to Major Brockholes, a professed papist who was formerly of Colonel Dongan's and Sir E. Andros's Council. Many others, by virtue of their former Commissions, ride about in a hostile manner encouraging the people to rebellion; which we doubt not in a short time to suppress, having had such good success in this city that most of the suspected are fled to the Quakers in the next colony. What their next movements will be, time will show; but we trust in God and our loyal forces to guard us. We hope the King will accept our service. Signed. Jacob Leisler, P. Delanoy, Johannes Bermege, Samuel Staats, Benjamin Blagge. 2½ closely written pages. Printed in New York Documents, III., 664. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 104.] |
| Jan. 7. |
Duplicate of the foregoing. [Ibid. No. 105.] |
| [Jan. 7.] |
Abstract of the foregoing. [Ibid. No. 106.] |
| Jan. 7. |
691. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Extract, from a letter to Mr. Usher read reporting the taking of Pemaquid and Casco Bay by the Indians. Agreed to lay them before the King. The seal of Barbados delivered to Colonel Kendall. Agreed to recommend Captain Dobyn to be Lieutenant-Governor of Antigua. Captain Leech's letter of 31 December read (see No. 673). Petition of Colonel Codrington as to his salary read and referred to the Treasury. Colonel Codrington's commission and instructions to be sent out by Captain Wright. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 307, 308.] |
| Jan. 7. |
692. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. As to the contents of a box sent out to Governor Codrington, with Admiral Wright; and as to the payment of Governor Codrington's salary in specie at the Leeward Islands. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. pp. 52–54, and pp. 55, 56.] |
| Jan. 7. |
693. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The Lord President is desired to lay before the King the address and declaration from Maryland, wherein it appears that the people having received no orders from Lord Baltimore have taken up arms against his Government. The Attorney-General is consulting the charter to see how the province can best be settled, and meanwhile the King is begged to send a letter approving of the proclamation of their Majesties and ordering the peace to be kept until further orders. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LII., pp. 146, 147.] |
| [Jan. 7.] |
694. Memorandum. That Lieutenant-Governor Nicholson requests a passage for himself and servants to Virginia. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 636. No 30.] |
| Jan. 7. |
695. Order of the King in Council. That orders be given to the Admiralty for transport for Captain Nicholson and his servants to Virginia. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 18.] |
| Jan. 7. |
696. Petition of Christopher Codrington to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Praying that a privy seal may be passed for the payment of his salary out of the produce of goods arising in speie in the Leeward Islands, as has been granted to the Governor of Barbardos. 1 p. Endorsed. Read 7 Jan. 1689–90. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 72.] |
Jan. 9.
Whitehall. |
697. Warrant for the seal of the Leeward Islands. On the one side, the royal effigies in a chariot drawn by two sea-horses, and on the other the royal arms. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. p. 51.] |
Jan. 9.
Whitehall. |
698. Order of the King in Council. Disallowing the act of the Leeward Islands compelling the rebels of Monmouth's insurrection to serve ten years. [Ibid. pp. 54, 55, and pp. 187, 188.] |
Jan. 9.
Whitehall. |
699. Order of the King in Council. Disallowing the Act of Jamaica of 1686 for ascertaining the servitude of transported rebels. Signed. Cha. Montague. It was further ordered that pardons should be issued for such as desired the same. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXII., p. 309 and p. 312, and Vol. C., p. 115.] |
Jan. 9.
Whitehall. |
700. Order of the King in Council. Disallowing the Act of Barbados passed for the government of rebel convicts in 1685. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 191, 192.] |
| Jan. 9. |
701. Warrant for the use of the Great Seal in Barbados. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 145, 146.] |
Jan. 9.
Whitehall. |
702. J. Povey to Sir Robert Holmes. I send copy of a memorial by Lord Inchiquin for power to pardon pirates in Jamaica. You may think it worth while to enter a caveat against such power, and plead that all pirates' goods are granted to you under the Great Seal. A great day is expected in the House of Commons to-morrow over the Corporation Bill. Signed J. Povey. 1 p. Annexed, |
|
702. I. Copy of Lord Inchiquin's memorial (see No. 704).[America and West Indies. Vol. 540. Nos. 16, 16 I.] |
| [Jan. 9.] |
703. Recommendation as to reducing pirates and privateers in America. A general pardon must be issued without respect of crimes or persons, and must be under the Great Seal of England, for pardon under a Colonial Great Seal will not be trusted. Such a pardon will strengthen the Colonies by adding numbers of the best men for sea or land-service, who are not to be obtained on any other terms. ½ p. Undated and unsigned. [America and West Indies. Vol. 540. No. 15.] |
| [Jan. 9.] |
704. Lord Inchiquin to the King. Several merchants have represented to me the danger of pirates, and have desired me to ask for power to pardon them, which they believe will be advantageous to Jamaica. Signed. Inchiquin. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 9 Jan., 1689–90. Read 14th. The Committee, after hearing the merchants, agree that it may be for the King's service to offer a general pardon to pirates. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 64, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXXII., p 331.] |
| [Jan. 9.] |
705. Instructions proposed by the Spanish Ambassador for Lord Inchiquin. 1. That he pardon pirates whose impunity would make a bad example. 2. That pardoned pirates be compelled to buy land, as security for their good behaviour, and that those who have not the money to do so be carefully watched. 3. That he take great care not to let pirates go who when driven in by distress, pretend to submit, but return to piracy as soon as they are revictualled. 4. He should forbid the passage to the South Sea by Magellan strit to all vessels, but the means for ensuring this must be left to him. 2 pp. French. Endorsed. Recd. from the Earl of Shrewsbury 9 Jan. 1689–90. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 65.] |
| [Jan. 9.] |
706. Spanish Ambassador to Lord Shrewsbury. Enclosing the preceding document, and asking for a copy of Lord Inchiquin's instructions when complete. Signed. Ronquillos. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 66.] |
| Jan. 10. |
707. John Coode to the President of Virginia. We have had no answer from you yet as to the arrest of our Papist fugitives. Since I wrote last George Mason and others have barbarously murdered John Payne. He came on board this yacht in a boat with but four men to ask why they went to and fro without entering and clearing, and was shot dead. There are hues and cries out against the murderers here and to Northward. Sewall was ashor at the time of the murder, but is proved to have given orders for his men to act as they did. He claims that he had your permit for his last coming into this province. I am therefore to request of you again the arrest and delivery of the former fugitives and of the present murderers. Could we have apprehended them in their original flight into Virginia, the King would not have lost a loyal subject [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LII., pp. 166–169] |
| Jan. 11. |
708. Petition of Lord Baltimore to Lords of Trade and Plantations. For the hearing of himself and of his officers in reference to the late disturbances in Maryland. |
|
Proposals of Lord Baltimore as to the same. That all Deputy Councillors and justices in commission in Maryland shall be removed; that Mr. Henry Coursey be commissioned Lieutenant-Governor; and that professed Protestants of good repute and estate be appointed a Council, with power to examine the pretensions of John Coode and his associates. Lord Baltimore desires no prosecution of Coode for what he has done; and is ready to give security and to remain in England as a pledge that the King's commands shall be obeyed. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LII., pp. 173–175.] |
Jan. 10.
Common
Gaol,
Boston. |
709. Edward Randolph to Lords of Trade and Plantations. On the 24th of November Mr. Bradstreet received from Mr. Riggs the King's letter of 30 July, part whereof only was printed and added to the Agent's letter like an advertisement to a Gazette. The word forthwith was omitted, so as more easily to impose on the people, and make them believe that the King has left to them the time and the ship by which Sir Edmund Andros and the other prisoners are to be sent to England. The King's letter of 12 August sent them by Mr. Mather was received on the 1st of December. This they caused to be printed with a feigned titled and counterfeit cypher of a seal, and distributed in all the towns in order to persuade the people that it had the King's broad seal to it. Under colour of this they have laid a tax amounting to about £10,000 on the Colony, have held a Court of Assistants, and have condemned a malefactor for breach of one of their capital laws. He was lately executed, to frighten the people into submission. On the 12th of December, Captain Fairweather by order of the Council read a paper to Sir Edmund Andros and others, signifying the receipt of the King's letter of 30 July, whereupon he and others concerned sent letters to them expressing our gratitude to the King, hoping that they would forthwith put us aboard the ship Blossom, then waiting to sail. The master was tired out with daily attendance on the Governor for a pass, but on the 24th following an embargo was laid on all shipping. The Council refused to consider our letter of the 13th of December, so we wrote a second letter on the 26th, of which likewise they have taken no notice, pretending that the representatives cannot determine what to do with us. On the 4th inst. (two days after the execution of the malefactor) they caused a paper to be printed declaring the authority reposed in them by the people and favoured, as they say, by the King's letter of 12 August. We have been told that the Council and Representatives have drawn up an address praying for a charter, and mean to send it home privately before putting any of us on board. I find by printed papers sent here by Mr. Mather that great solicitations have been made by him and his friends to the King, to you, and to the House of Commons for a charter, as though it were a national concern. I humbly submit that the matter should be delayed until the arrival of Sir Edmund, myself and others to give an account of the distressed condition of the country owing to the arbitrary management of a factious and bigoted party; and meantime I offer it as a matter of great import to examine how the planters became possessed of the first charter granted to Sir Henry Roswell and others in 1628, of which not one
step has ever appeared in England or in America; moreover it is plain from the charter and its docket, which I long ago transcribed from the records of the Privy Seal office, that the affairs of Massachusetts Bay like those of the East Indian and African Companies were to be managed in England only. Signed. Ed. Randolph. Holograph. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 2 April, 1690. Annexed, |
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709. I. Order of the Convention of Massachusetts, 3 December, 1689. For a day of thanksgiving for many signal mercies. Signed. Isaac Addington. Printed sheet. 1 p. |
|
709. II. Order of the Convention of Massachusetts, 3 December, 1689. Announcing that it has the King's authority to continue the administration of the Government. Printed sheet. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 April, 1690. |
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709. III. Order of the same. For the appointment of a Committee to grant debentures for pay of soldiers lately employed in the Indian war. Printed sheet. 1 p. Endorsed as the preceding. |
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709. IV. Order of the Convention of Massachusetts to Captain John Fairweather, to signify to Sir Edmund Andros, Joseph Dudley, John Palmer, James Graham, John West, James Sherlock, George Farwell and Edward Randolph that the King's order has been received for them to be sent home in the first ship bound for England. Dated 12 Dec. 1689. Copy. Scrap. Endorsed. Recd. 6 May, 1690. |
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709. V. Edward Randolph to Commissioners of Customs. Common Gaol, Dec. 12, 1689. The traders have obtained their end by imprisoning the Governor and myself. Their vessels come into port from prohibited countries without disturbance. I have informed the officers at Virginia and Barbados so that they may make strict search aboard all vessels from hence. The people will have no supply from England, finding the profit of trading against law in a country where they are favoured by the Government. Ships come in with unlawful goods, and this place will soon become a free port again unless the people are convinced of their error by force. The King's letter of 30 July ordering us to be sent in the first ship to England reached Mr. Bradstreet on the 29th, but so far they allow us no liberty to leave gaol to provide for our voyage nor have they determined on what ship to put us. I hope you have received my former letters. Copy. 1 p. |
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709. VI. Copy of the order to John Fairweather (see No. iv). Letter from the prisoners, named in the order, to the Convention of Massachusetts. 13 December, 1689. Asking when they will be released and on what ship they will be sent home. Letter of Edward Randolph to the same asking for his books and papers to be delivered to him. Copies. The whole. 1 p. |
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709. VII. Another copy of Edward Randolph's letter of 13 December, asking for his papers. Scrap. |
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709. VIII. David Jamison to the Convention. 13 December, 1689. Asking for his release in accordance with the King's orders. Copy. Scrap. Endorsed in Edward Randolph's hand. This paper was delivered to Mr. Danforth, who said that he did not know he was in gaol. There is no charge against him except that he went to our church, but his release has always been, and still is, refused. |
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709. IX. Letter of Sir E. Andros and the other prisoners to the Convention. 26 December, 1689. Repeating their request to be sent to England. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 April 90. |
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709. X. Printed copy of the King's letter of 12 August, 1689, to Convention of Massachusetts, as published at Boston by the Convention. There is, as Randolph points out, a large space purporting to represent a seal, the original bearing no such seal. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 April, 1690. |
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709. XI. Copy of the docket of the grant of New England to Sir Henry Russell and others, directing that the officers of the company shall be elected in England. 4 March, 1628. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 April, 1690. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. Nos. 53, 53 I–XI., and (without enclosures) Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 173–175.] |
| Jan. 11. |
710. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Agreed to recommend Mr. Hannay as Provost Marshal of Barbados. Order for passage for Colonel Sloughter to New York. Mr. John Haines appointed to the Council of New York. Agreed to move for bedding for the garrison of New York. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 309, 310.] |
| Jan. 11. |
711. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Desiring the Admiralty to provide passage on board the frigate for ten servants of Governor Sloghter, with the usual allowance of victuals. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., p. 253.] |
| Jan. 11. |
712. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Desiring the attendance of the merchants and planters of Jamaica on the 14th inst. Draft. ½ p. Endorsed. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 67.] |
| Jan. 12. |
713. William Blathwayt to the Earl of Carbery. Desiring his attendance at the meeting of the Lords of Trade and Plantations on the 11th. Draft. ¼ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 6. No. 68.] |
| Jan. 13. |
714. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. The Council takes notice of the Auditor's objection to Thomas Ryves's accounts. Ordered that they be returned to Ryves, and that he send no accounts home till they are passd by the Council. Order for hiring a house in Port Royal and for provision for the reception of Lord Inchiquin. A medal presented to Richard Chitty for his good service to the new fort at Port Royal. Orders as to payments of money and delivery of ammunition. Robert Snead summoned to answer for words reflecting on the late Colonel Molesworth. The King's declaration of war against France proclaimed. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 14, 15.] |
Jan. 13.
New York. |
715. Anthony Brockholes to Edward Randolph. I am sorry for all your trouble, but I am sure that in the long run you will obtain satisfaction for all the suffering that you undergo. Our condition is as bad if not worse, except that we are not yet subject to the insolencies that an arch rebel and tyrant thinks fit to impose. You will hear the particulars from Captain Lodowyck who intends for your parts this week. Signed. Copy. ½ p. Endorsed: Copy of a letter intercepted by Leisler. Recd. 10 April, 1690. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 1.] |
| Jan. 14. |
716. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Lord Baltimore presented certain proposals as to Maryland. The merchants of Jamaica heard as to Lord Inchiquin's proposal for a general pardon to pirates. Petition of John Grey read (see next abstract) and order given thereupon (see No. 726). The Admiralty requested to report as to the transport of the two foot companies to New York. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., pp. 310, 311.] |
| Jan. 14. |
717. Petition of John Gray to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Sir John Witham always found pretexts for delaying the hearing of his appeal against me, and now he is dead. I beg dismission of the appeal. Endorsed. Read 14 Jan. 1689–90. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 21.] |
Jan. 14.
Antigua. |
718. Instructions of Governor Codrington to Captain Thomas Hewetson. To sail to St. Martins to the help of Sir Timothy Thornhill's forces, and endeavour to subdue the Island. Copy. 1½ pp. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 73.] |
Jan. 14.
New York. |
719. Nicholas Bayard to John West. I have received yours by John Perry. He was too careful to leave them at Colonel Morris's at his first coming, or they would have fallen into the hands of the Philistines, who open all our letters and keep them at discretion. I am under my old confinement, which I prefer to any that the arch-rebel and his hellish crew may impose on me. Mrs. Mayoress was to-day with me to tell me of a damned plot that Mr. Mayor discovered yesterday, in which on New Year's Day last it had been resolved to massacre five or six of the chief inhabitants, Mr. Mayor and myself among them; but the plot being found out it was prevented (as is now said) by the arch-rebel himself. We have no post from Albany and Ulster, but I do not doubt their loyalty. I wish we had enough of such men here to suppress the rebels, but most of the people are frightened, so we must wait for a Governor's arrival. I am sorry to hear that the usurpers of your Government continue their former severity. Thanks for the printed papers, which I have sent to several gentlemen for their perusal. Your new upstarts sent a parcel of them, I am told, to our Masaniello, and asked him to procure what accusations he could against His Excellency and his friends. You need not doubt that his crew have been active beyond the bounds of honesty, for I have witnesses sufficient to prove that one Matthias, a servant or soldier, who has lived upwards of two years by Sir E. Andros, has declared that Leisler had tried to make him swear that Sir Edmund was a papist, offering him twenty-four shillings in hand, with a promise that he should not want as long as he should live. I have tried to find this Matthias but have been
unable to send an affidavit under oath, as I hope to when I find him. I doubt but the rebels here have endeavoured to stain my repute at home to colour their wickedness, so I desire if I can to vindicate myself. I have made interest to procure the collectorship here, so as to be in some manner revenged of the affront which I received in that office from the rebels. Pray give your assistance if you arrive in time, even though you should exceed my former order, which was £150. Signed. N. Bayard. Copy. This is the intercepted letter referred to in No. 548. Printed in New York Documents, III., 661. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 107.] |
| Jan. 14. |
720. William Nichols to George Farwell. I write notwithstanding your advice that you will be sailing in a week, hoping that the letter may follow you. I have had an ill time of it every hour since the cursed connection of these Colonies, nor is it mended by what has lately happened. I sold C. Palmer's sloop, but on a bond at three months, though I was glad to get rid of her with Edsall and others watching to lay their attachments for her. That incorrigible brutish coxcomb Leisler is our despot here, backed by those insipid mobiles Delanoy, Milborne, Edsall, Cuyler and others not worth the naming. The villain calls himself Lieutenant-Governor. Never was such a pack of ignorant, scandalous, malicious, false, imprudent, impertinent rascals herded together, out of hell. They took up Philip French lately and kept him twenty days, denying him the access of anyone most of the time. At length on his humble submission they let him out; he is gone to New London. They threaten to serve me up with the same sauce, which makes me keep my house and not stir out except privately and well armed. Leisler is risen to that height of arrogance that he threatens to plunder the houses of those who deny his authority to be legal, and asserts that whose head soever he pleases shall be brought to him at the hour when he commands it. I think our hopes are brought to a fair market. A decree was issued lately for a day of thanks-giving for their Majesties' success, but more especially for the good settlement of this Government. With what frontlike confidence can these caitiffs dally with the Eternal Being. We must call the Almighty a lie to His very face, and praise Him for what we most want, and their Majesties' names must be used as a security to their shameless villainies and oppressions. I doubt your holy-day is somewhat of the same nature; it is enough to confirm Atheists to see the world committed to such Phaetons. You will doubtless have heard to what a wretched condition we are reduced. I charge you, by our friendship and as you love virtue and hate hypocrisy, remain a mortal and irreconcilable enemy to Leisler and his adherents while you are in England. Use all your influence to get this rogue removed and delivered to the severity of the law as an example to all rebels. My service to your friends. Let me hear from you by first opportunity, and give me a true account of things in England. I shall go into the country until the new Governor comes, or some other alteration, which God send soon. Copy. 2 closely written pages. Endorsed : Recd. 10 April, 1690. Printed in New York Documents, III., 662. |
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Duplicate of the foregoing. [America and West Indies. 578. Nos. 108, 109.] |
| Jan. 14. |
721. Phineas Bowles to William Blathwayt. As the order has been sent concerning Colonel Sloughter, I suppose there is no occasion for further orders as to the soldiers and ordnance. But my Lords think that in any order the directions should be express and not implied, and if they consider anything more necessary, you will be informed. Signed. P. Bowles. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 578. No. 110.] |
| Jan. 14. |
722. William Blathwayt to Phineas Bowles I hear that some difficulty has arisen over the victualling of the two garrison companies on their voyage to New York. Pray let me know if any fresh order be required. I do not see what further order is necessary for the transport of stores. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., p. 254.] |
| Jan. 15. |
723. Memorandum of Captain William Dobyns, asking for a passage for himself and household to the West Indies on one of the King's frigates. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 74.] |
| [Jan. ] |
724. Captain Thomas Fowke to William Blathwayt. Believing that the change could not be effected without great difficulty and trouble to Lord Mulmouth (sic) made me then willing to go myself, although I should have sustained the greatest damage imaginable by it; but I am very willing so it be done with convenience to my lord. Signed. Tho. Fowke. 1 p. Undated. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 75.] |
| Jan. 16. |
725. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Order for the arrest of Captain George Mason and others concerned in the affray wherein James Payne was killed. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 331–333.] |
| Jan. 16. |
726. Memorandum of Lords of Trade and Plantations. That notice be given to Sir John Witham's executors to prosecute their appeal within fourteen days or shew cause why it should not be dismissed. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 22.] |
| Jan. 17. |
727. Receipt for the seal of the Leeward Islands. Signed. Wm. Dobyns. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. p. 52.] |
| Jan. 17. |
728. William Blathwayt to Mr. Sotherne. Asking the Admiralty to provide a passage to the Leeward Islands for Captain Dobyns and six servants. [Ibid. p. 65.] |
| Jan. 21. |
729. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for the embargo on sloops to be removed on the 30th inst. Order for the Provost Marshal to take Lieutenant Robert Snead into custody. Order for Thomas Ryves to appear and bring his account. Order as to a Spanish ship driven into Port Royal by distress. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 16, 17.] |
| Jan. 21. |
730. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. John Bromley chosen Speaker. The Lieutenant-Governor consulted the House as to the sailing of ships for England. Act respecting Courts of Common Pleas read a first time. Resolution for a Bill to stop all proceedings in law or equity for three months. A Committee appointed to inspect the public accounts. |
| Jan. 22 |
Resolved that a new Excise Bill be drawn. Richard Salter chosen Treasurer, and his salary and perquisites voted. Bill for an impost on liquors read a first time. Bill for stopping proceedings in law to be added to the Excise Bill. Bill to repeal the existing Act as to Grand Sessions read a first time. [Col. Entry Book, Vol. XIV., pp. 213–216.] |
| Jan. 22. |
731. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Draft of a letter to Maryland read and amended (see No. 751). Mrs. Hill's petition read, and to be laid before the King (see next abstract). [Col. Entry Book, Vol. CIX., p. 312.] |
| [Jan. 22.] |
732. Petition of Margaret Hill to the King. Out of the grant of £1,000 made for Colonel Thomas Hill and the companies in the Leeward Islands I expended £369 in clothing and shipped it off to the West Indies; but the ship and all the things were unfortunately lost at Deal in the last great storm. I beg you to make good the loss. 1 p. Inscribed. Recd. 22 Jan. 1689. The petition laid before the King on the 24th; and ordered that the loss should be made good out of the King's bounty. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 77, and Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. p. 62.] |
Jan. 22.
Admiralty. |
733. J. Sotherne to William Blathwayt. I understand that Captain Wright has been ordered to receive the soldiers bound for the West Indies on board his squadron. Signed. J. Sotherne. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 76, and Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. p., and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., p. 109.] |
| Jan. 23. |
734. Additional instructions to Governor Codrington. David Ganespool has received a commission as a reformed Captain and is about to repair to the Leeward Islands. You will advise with him as to any attack on Guadeloupe, but spare his property and that of his kindred in the Island. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. pp. 181–183.] |
| Jan. 23. |
735. Orders to Lieutenant-Colonel Holt of Bolton's regiment. To the same effect as to sparing David Ganespool's property at Guadeloupe. [Ibid. pp. 183, 184.] |
| [Jan. 23.] |
736. Memorandum for the Lord President. To move the King for the supply of bedding for the two foot companies at New York; and for appointment of George Hannay to be Provost Marshal of Barbados. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 23 June, 1689. [America and West Indies. 601. No. 24.] |
Jan. 24.
Admiralty. |
737. J. Sotherne to William Blathwayt. Forwarding additional instructions issued to Captain Lawrence Wright. ¼ p. [America and West Indies. 550. No. 78.] |
| Jan. 24. |
738. Additional instructions to Admiral Lawrence Wright. As to sparing David Ganespool's property in Guadeloupe. Signed. Carbery, J. Lowther, Jno. Chicheley. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands. 43. pp. 185, 186, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., pp. 112, 113.] |
| Jan. 24. |
739. Instructions of the Government of Massachusetts to its Agents, Sir Henry Ashurst, Bart., Elisha Cooke, Increase Mather and Thomas Oates. To wait upon the King, obtain a full confirmation of the ancient Charter, correct misrepresentations as to the late Revolution, and represent matters in relation to defence. Copy. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 29 May, 1690, from the Agents. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 54, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 209, 210.] |
| Jan. 25. |
740. Petition and Address of the inhabitants of Maine and the County of Cornwall in New England. In the summer of 1688 the Eastern Indians made war upon us, killed and took many inhabitants and spoiled our settlements; but as soon as Sir Edmund Andros returned from New York he appointed such forces as checked the Indians and reduced them to such straits that they were on the point of submission. We suffered no harm during that time, but in April, to our great grief and loss, the people of Boston rose in insurrection, drew off the garrisons and posts and left us without any succour or defence. Shortly afterwards the Indians were supplied with arms and ammunition by vessels sent from Boston, whereupon they attacked the fortifications which the forces had deserted, and overran a great part of Maine before any assistance was sent from Boston. We have suffered losses to £40,000 value, besides the loss of three hundred inhabitants; and the forces from Boston are now returned without any advantage gained over the enemy. All this has been brought upon us by the late insurrection at Boston. We beg for protection and help. Signed. Sam. Walker, Fre. (?) Ellacott, Nich. Manning, John Paine (his mark), Tho. Scottow, John B. Ryall, Lawrence Downes, James Dennis, William Denis, John Wreford (?), Francis Johnson, John Shierley (?), John Dollar, John Spencer, Thomas Eyles, James Law. Large sheet. Endorsed. Read 24 April, 1690. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 55, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 182–185.] |
Jan. 25.
Boston. |
741. Address of divers gentlemen, merchants and others of Boston to the King. The Government lately set up by King James, without an Assembly, seemed grievous to many here, although the uniting of the Colonies added to our happiness, whatever the representations of interested persons to the contrary. The eruptions in Massachusetts and New York leave New England in a very broken and unsteady posture. We beg therefore that you will commission fit persons to visit the country and hear the cries of the distressed. Or the appointment of a Governor and Council over us to administer the Government with an elected Assembly may prevent further risings and losses, and as many of the little provinces as seem good to you may be united under one Governor for mutual defence and security. Signed. J. Nelson, Fra. Foxcroft, Richard Sprague, Charles Lidget, Thomas Greaves, Jno. Cutler, Timothy Cutler and thirty-eight more. 2 pp. Endorsed. Presented 24 April, 90. |
|
Duplicate of preceding. Unsigned. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. Nos. 56, 57, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 176, 177.] |
| [Jan. 25.] |
742. Address of members of the Church of England in Boston to the King. Only a few years have passed since by the favour of your predecessors we were delivered from the thraldom of a most extravagant and arbitrary government, being exercised over us under pretence of a charter which was never respected except in name. By that favour we gained freedom of divine worship which we were never permitted till the charter was vacated, for none were admitted to the sacrament except members of their church covenant, which does not include a tenth part of your subjects here. Since our deliverance we have tried to carry ourselves void of offence to those who dissent from us and have built a church, but such is the malice of those that dissent from us that they put frequent indignities upon us, while some of our principal teachers are charged in a printed treatise with idolatry and popery. We have lately to our horror seen the Government subverted, the Governor and his officers seized, and the forts and garrisons appointed for our defence dismantled and disbanded, to the great advantage of our enemies, who have killed many hundreds of our fellow subjects and laid much country waste. H.M.S. Rose was also seized and dismantled, leaving the seas open to pirates, who have done us £12,000 damage; and all this by a party of pretended zealous and godly men from motives of envy and malice and from greater regard to their charter, with all its fame for maladministration and persecution, than to their King and Country. They have now restored their former government and revived their pretended privileges to the oppression of thousands, but more particularly of ourselves. They have greatly damaged our Church and threatened daily to put it down, destroyed our minister, and subjected us to excessive taxes for the support of a disloyal government. We are content to suffer, not doubting of your redress, and we rejoice and have confidence in your regard to the Church of England. We beg not to be left under anarchy, but that we may be ruled by a Governor, Council and Assembly. Signed. Samuel Myles, M.A.; Fra. Foxcroft, Sam. Ravenscroft, Churchwardens. Large sheet. Date taken from the contemporary index. Endorsed. Read 24 April, 1690. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 58, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 177–181.] |
| [Jan.] |
743. Address of sundry inhabitants of Charlestown to the King. We lament the great disorder and confusion caused by the rash action of a disaffected party among us, who overthrew the established Government and set up one of their own; whereby many of us are subjected to great hardships for maintaining your rights and sovereignty (which by many are too much disregarded) and resisting their arbitrary orders. We beg your protection that we may have the benefit of the laws of England, and that all persons holding the fundamentals of faith and order may be amicably treated according to the rules of Christian charity. Signed. Thomas Greaves, Richard Sprague, and ten more. Large sheet. Endorsed. Read in Council, April 24, 1690. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 59, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 185–188.] |
| Jan. 28. |
744. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Draft letter to Maryland read (see No. 751). Agreed to represent to the King that depositions might be taken as to the recent proceedings. (Memo. The King gave no order hereon.) [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CIX., p. 313.] |
| Jan. 29. |
745. Simon Bradstreet to the Earl of Shrewsbury. Our special thanks for the King's letter of 12 August, empowering us to carry on the Government. The royal orders as to H.M.S. Rose and the persons to be sent to England were readily complied with, and the latter now performed by this first opportunity of shipping. We have reinforced Albany against attack by the French, who, as we learn, have since fallen upon several Indians of the Five Nations, who are as an outguard to that place. We hope that this will avert the mischief which we feared upon the restoration of the Maqua prisoners from France; for this action seemed to us like to have drawn them to the French side against the English. All Indians retire from our plantations in the winter, but in the spring we expect that they will be busy again, and that the French will be stirring them up against us. We hear that the French were reinforced last fall, and are fortifying themselves, where if permitted quietly to remain there will be a haven for men-of-war and privateers that may infest this coast. This will be most destructive to the fishery. Five or six of our vessels were taken by them last fall, so that it seems necessary for our own safety that we should do something to arrest this growth, which if successful would put an end to the Indian war. Signed. Sim. Bradstreet, in the name of the General Court. 1½ pp. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 60.] |
Jan. 30.
Newport. |
746. Deputy-Governor and Company of Rhode Island to the King. On the news of your accession to the Crown we caused you to be proclaimed, and trust that you will keep us free from arbitrary power and confirm us enjoyment of our lands, and of our ancient liberties and privileges. We therefore beg your confirmation of our charter, which though submitted to the King was not condemned nor taken from us. After the revolution which deposed Sir Edmund Andros we reassumed the Government according to charter, replacing the persons who were in office before Sir Edmund's coming in 1686. Sir Edmund escaped hither from Massachusetts but was speedily seized, and secured until he was redelivered to the authorities of Boston by their request. We pray for your welfare. Signed. John Coggeshall, Depy. Govr., John Easton, Edw. Thurton, John Greene, George Lawson, Joseph Jenkes, Benjamin Smith; Assistants. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 27 May, 1690. [Board of Trade. New England, 5. No. 61, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 189–191.] |
Jan. 30.
Westminster. |
747. Privy Seal for the payment of Governor Codrington's salary in specie in the Leeward Islands. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 43. pp. 56–58.] |
Jan. 30.
Whitehall. |
748. Order of the King in Council. Approving the draft of a letter to Maryland (see No. 751). [Col. Entry Bk, Vol. LII., p. 147.] |
Jan. 30.
Whitehall. |
749. Order of the King in Council. For the provision of bedding for the garrison companies of New York. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., p. 253.] |
| Jan. 31 |
750. Instructions to Governor Henry Sloughter of New York. The Councillors are to be Frederick Flypse, Stephen van Cortlandt, Nicholas Bayard, William Smith, Gabriel Minviell, Chidley Brooke, William Nichols, Nicholas de Meyer, Francis Rombouts, Thomas Willett, William Pinhorne, John Haines. Albany and Senectady are to be fortified. New York is to be the sole port of entry. His salary from the Colonial Revenue is to be £600 a year. Printed in New York Documents, III., 685. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., pp. 223–244.] |
| Jan. 31. |
751. Petition of the Executors of Sir John Witham. We beg for further time to prepare our appeal case, all having been deranged by Sir John's death in November. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 31 Jan., 1690. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 23.] |
