America and West Indies: March 1693, 1-15

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 14, 1693-1696. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1903.

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'America and West Indies: March 1693, 1-15', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 14, 1693-1696, ed. J W Fortescue( London, 1903), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol14/pp36-53 [accessed 29 November 2024].

March 1693



March 1. Whitehall.	139. The King to the Governor of Virginia. Directing him to pay £500 from the quit-rents to New York, to be employed against the French. [Board of Trade. New York, 48. pp. 14–15.]
March 1. Whitehall.	140. The King to Governor Copley. Ordering him to pay the sum of £250 from the royal revenue of Maryland to the Government of New York, for assistance in its defence. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 8. pp. 51–52, and pp. 99–100.]
March 1.	141. Governor Sir William Phips to the Lords of the Admiralty. This letter is identical with that to the Earl of Nottingham of 15 February, complaining of Captain Short. (See No. 88.)
	Another copy of the above. 3 pp. [Board of Trade. New England, 6. Nos. 34, 35.]
March 1. H.M.S. Conception, Boston.	142. Captain Fairfax, R.N., to Mr. Sotherne. I have after long delay obtained a survey and have enclosed a report as to the rigging, sails, etc. I am told that the carpenters have given theirs to the Governor and was promised a copy, but I cannot obtain it. Copy. ½ p. [Board of Trade. New England, 6. No. 36.]
March 1.	143. Commission to Captain John Goddard to be Lieutenant-Governor of Bermuda. [Board of Trade. Bermuda, 28. pp. 47–59.]
[March.]	144. Instructions to Captain John Goddard as Governor of Bermuda. He is to propose to the Assembly that an export duty of one penny per pound be settled on tobacco, in such manner that the Crown may lower it as it thinks fit; that moderate quit-rents be fixed for land; and that the public buildings be repaired. The rest of the instructions are of the usual type. [Board of Trade. Bermuda, 28. pp. 60–83.]
March 1.	145. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Ralph Wormeley appointed to act as Secretary on the death of Christopher Robinson, and Richard Lee appointed a Councillor in the place of the said Robinson. Prayers for a blessing on the proceedings of the General Assembly ordered in all churches on Sunday, 19th inst. Order for clearing two ships for England, there being not ships enough to make a fleet.
March 2.	Ralph Wormeley sworn Secretary. Peter Beverley appointed Clerk of the Burgesses. William Edwards sworn Clerk of the General Assembly. Agreed that the Governor shall address the Burgesses in general terms only.
March 3.	Sheriff Robert Bolling ordered to attend the Council to answer for detention of a negro slave not his own. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 790–793.]
March 2.	146. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. The House having heard a speech from the Governor presented Thomas Milner as their Speaker, who was accepted. Committee of privileges and of elections appointed.
March 3.	List of the House:—
	John Pleasant	Henrico County.
	Peter Field	Henrico County.
	John Taylor	Charles City County.
	John Styth	Charles City County.
	Michael Sherman	James City County.
	Henry Duke	James City County.
	Miles Cary	James City.
	Samuel Swan	Surrey County.
	Francis Clements	Surrey County.
	Henry Baker	Isle of Wight County.
	Anthony Holliday	Isle of Wight County.
	Thomas Milner	Nancymond County.
	Thomas Lear	Nancymond County.
	John Custis	Northampton County.
	William Kendall	Northampton County.
	Richard Rogers	Northumberland County.
	Richard O'Flint	Northumberland County.
	Samuel Mason	Norfolk County.
	Francis Sawyer	Norfolk County.
	John Richardson	Princess Ann County.
	Jacob Johnson	Princess Ann County.
	Willis Wilson	Elizabeth City County.
	William Armistead	Elizabeth City County.
	Thomas Ballard	York County.
	Daniel Parke	York County.
	John Lyddall	New Kent County.
	William Basset	New Kent County.
	James Rawson	Gloucester County.
	John Baylor	Gloucester County.
	Matthew Kemp	Middlesex County.
	John Cant	Middlesex County.
	John Battaile	Essex County.
	Edward Thomas	Essex County.
	Arthur Spicer	Richmond County.
	William Colston	Richmond County.
	Martin Scarlet	Stafford County.
	Thomas Ousley	Stafford County.
	Richard Baylie	Accomack County.
	Samuel Sandford	Accomack County.
	Daniel Fox	Lancaster County.
	John Stretchley	Lancaster County.
	Thomas Yewell	Westmoreland County.
	William Hardidge	Westmoreland County.
	William Cary	Warwick County
	William Leigh	King's and Queen's County.
	The burgesses present were sworn, except John Pleasant who refused the oath, whereupon a writ for a new burgess to be elected in his place was requested. William Drummond appointed messenger. Message to the Governor thanking him for appointing persons to attend them, but that they had appointed their own messenger. Robert Beverley appointed Clerk.
March 4.	Order for enquiry into the election for King and Queen's County. The Sheriff of Warwick County was also summoned to attend as to the election for that County. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 939–946.]
March 2.	147. Minutes of General Assembly of Virginia. The Governor made the Burgesses a general speech, and announced that he had appointed Peter Beverley to be Clerk. The Burgesses then presented their Speaker, who was approved.
March 3.	Commissioners appointed to swear the Burgesses. Message for the Burgesses as to their appointment of a messenger. A new writ for the election of a burgess for Henrico County issued. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 891–895.]
March 2.	148. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Order for payment of £156 for the purchase of a sloop by the late Government. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., p. 224.]
March 2.	149. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Montserrat. Order for pressing a pink for the expedition now on foot, and for every plantation in the Island to make 200 lbs. of cassava-bread, to be delivered to the Treasurer by Tuesday next, for the same. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., p. 313.]
March 2. Whitehall.	150. Order of the King in Council. Approving the report of Lords of Trade and Plantations on Sir Thomas Laurence's petition (see No. 125) and ordering that the Acts and order, whereby the Secretary's fees are diverted, be repealed, and that the fees of the Naval officer remain as at present settled. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 8. pp. 94–96, and pp. 100–104.]
March 2. Whitehall.	151. Order of the King in Council. Approving the Act of Barbados for granting £1,000 to Sir Timothy Thornhill. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 323, 324.]
March 2. Whitehall.	152. Order of the King in Council. Disallowing the Act of Barbados for qualification of electors. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 324, 325.]
March 2. Barbados.	153. Minutes of Council of War of Barbados. These will be found embodied in the letter of the Council of War to Governor Codrington (see No. 170 I.). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 313, 314.]
March 2.	154. List of the Burgesses of Assembly of Virginia. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 June, 1693. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 5. No. 14.]
March 2.	155. Speech of Governor Sir Edmund Andros at the opening of the Virginia Assembly. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 2 June, 1693. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 5. No. 15.]
March 2.	156. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. A petition from the farmers beyond the bounds of Sudbury, Marlborough, etc., to be formed into a township, was sent down to the Representatives.
March 3.	Resolved that Increase Mather be desired to preach a sermon to the General Assembly on Wednesday next. Elisha Hutchinson, John Foster, Peter Sergeant and Isaac Addington sworn justices of the inferior Court of Common Pleas for Suffolk County. Report of the Commissioners for regulating the assessment read and deferred for consideration.
March 4.	Bills to grant £500 to the Governor, and to grant a piece of void land in Boston to Jane Kind, read. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 380, 381.]
March 3.	157. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Sir F. Wheler and Colonel Foulke sworn of the Council. Order for the furnishing of papers and records to Ralph Lane. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 401, 402.]
March 3. Whitehall.	158. The King to the Governments of Connecticut and Rhode Island. Ordering them to send assistance in men or money to New York against the French, and to agree with the other Colonies as to the quota of men to be furnished. Countersigned. Nottingham. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., pp. 421, 422.]
March 3.	159. Orders of Lieutenant-Governor Sir William Beeston to Captain Stephen Elliot to sail to England with despatches. Copy. 1 p. [Board of Trade, Jamaica. 7. No. 3.]
March 3. Virginia.	160. Governor Sir Edmund Andros to the Earl of Nottingham. Mr. Robinson, Councillor and Acting Secretary, is dead, and I have appointed Mr. Ralph Wormeley to act as Secretary in his place. The Assembly met yesterday. I hope for the speedy arrival of ships with orders releasing the ports and towns, and with much needed supplies. Signed. E. Andros. Holograph. 1 p. Endorsed. R. June 2, '93. [America and West Indies. 638. No. 7.]
March 3.	161. Minutes of Council of New York. The Governor reported his operations at Albany, mentioning that the French had left all their prisoners behind, that he had met the Sachems and made a treaty, and that he had made haste to send home all the detached men, returning himself yesterday morning. The Council thanked him for his prudence and diligence, saying that the like expedition had never been seen before in the province. Order for the records of his proceedings to be read. Resolved to write to the Justices of Ulster County as to the scattered plantations that are in greatest danger, and the most convenient places for their joining together for mutual defence. Order for the neighbouring Colonies to be apprised of the defeat of the French. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., p. 399.]
[March 3.]	162. Copy of Minutes of Council of New York from 1 September, 1692, to 3 March, 1693. 13 pp. [America and West Indies. 579. No. 30.]
March 4.	163. Governor Kendall to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Identical with the letter of same date to Lord Nottingham. (See next abstract.) Endorsed. Recd. 1 May, 1693. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 5. No. 8; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 336, 337.]
March 4. Barbados.	164. Governor Kendall to Earl of Nottingham. My express with my last letter sailed on 14 February, and on the last day of that month, beyond my expectation but to my great satisfaction, Sir Francis Wheler's fleet arrived here in perfect health. I have had the good fortune to please the officers and soldiers that came with him by giving them free refreshing quarters. You will doubtless receive full particulars of both fleet and regiments from Sir Francis and Colonel Foulke, to whom I shall, despite past misfortunes and present fears of intestine enemies, join nine hundred of the best men in the Island. We are now taking every measure to ensure the success of the expedition. At the earnest request of all the officers of the last squadron that was here, I not only supplied them with all the money that I had but used all my credit also, to keep their men and ships from perishing. For this they gave me their bills on the Commissioners for the Navy and for Victualling, but by my present letters I find few or none of them paid, and no assurance that they ever will be. Since I gained nothing by what I did, saved the lives of over a thousand men and kept the ships from sinking, and since I have been out of the greater part of my money for more than twelve months, I beseech you to take my case under your protection, for such unkind usage may prove very fatal to the King's affairs in the future. Signed. J. Kendall. Holograph. 1½ pp. Endorsed. R. Apr. 26, '93.
	Duplicate of the foregoing. [America and West Indies. 456. Nos. 43, 44.]
March 4. Barbados.	165. T. Fotherby to the Earl of Nottingham. At last we have arrived at this place, where we have been so long expected, and as far as I can learn as healthy as any fleet ever came. Of 117 soldiers and officers, besides seamen, in this ship we have had but one sick. We are landing the stores as fast as we can, to inspect and check them. I must complain of an injustice done to me, though I fix it upon no one. When the method for disposal of plunder was submitted to the King, care was taken that all general officers should have their portion, even to a regimental chaplain, whose duty I believe obliges him to pray against our plundering; but I find myself excluded by not being mentioned, nor can I reasonably ask it, since I am not. My lot will therefore be small, if any, since I must stand to their courtesy for it. I entreat that my portion may be ordered according to the posts I am in, for the trouble of my employ deserves it as much as any. Not being of the Council of War I cannot tell you when we shall sail for Martinique, but I hope that it will not be long. I would have it as short as may be, to be quit of an employ that is very troublesome and vexatious, and return to your Lordship's protection. Signed. T. Fotherby. Holograph. 1½ pp. Endorsed. R. Apr. 28, '93. [America and West Indies. 456. No. 45.]
March 4.	166. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Committee appointed to examine the accounts of the Committee for war. Order for payment of twenty shillings to Daniel Cheever, for custody of an Indian Sachem. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 224–225.]
March 4. Victualling Office.	167. The Victuallers of the Navy to William Blathwayt. In reply to your questions Sir Francis Wheler's squadron was victualled for eight months, which with the money for short allowance was to last them twelve months. We beg for a letter to the officers at Barbados that no custom may be taken for rum and sugar delivered to the King's ships in the West Indies. Signed. Tho. Papillon, Simon Mayne, John Agar, James Howe. 1 p. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 2. No. 43; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., p. 307.]
March 5. Whitehall.	168. The King to the Governor of Virginia. Ordering him to pay £500 out of the quit-rents to New York for the defence of the frontier, and to charge the sum of £302, already sent to New York, also against the quit-rents; which fund however is otherwise not to be touched without order, except in case of invasion or insurrection. [Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. pp. 226, 227.]
March 6.	169. William Blathwayt to Commissioners of Ordnance. Asking for an account of the stores delivered to the land-forces with Sir Francis Wheler's squadron. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., p. 308.]
March 6. On board the Resolution, Carlisle Bay, Barbados.	170. Sir Francis Wheler to Earl of Nottingham. I arrived here the 1st inst. and before anchoring ascertained from Governor Kendall that the Island had never been healthier. We have met with very kind usage. The Governor had procured from the Assembly an Act giving free quarters for the soldiers for a month, chiefly upon the gentlemen, twenty or thirty in a house. The gentlemen have kindly interpreted the laws so as to give the officers and men all imaginable satisfaction. In the Channel and soundings we parted from the Ruby, Dragon, Experiment, Cygnet (fireship) and some merchantmen. On the 26th January we arrived at Madeira and found there the Ruby, Dragon, Experiment and one transport. We were very civilly received by the Governor and sailed again on the 29th. On the 8th February in latitude 24½ degrees we parted with the Falcon and two Jamaica merchantmen, which intended to go to northward of the Caribbee Islands. On arriving here we found the Mermaid, the hospital-ship and four transports, which had parted from us before we reached Madeira. Yesterday the Cygnet came in, so that there is but one small merchant vessel missing, with one ensign and thirty soldiers of Goodwyn's regiment aboard. A few seamen have sickened but the rest and the soldiers are in good health. We found the Island full of expectation for our arrival. Here are two regiments raised by the country, which were each five hundred strong but are now but 400, under Colonels Salter and Butler. They have their transports and provisions ready to go with us to Martinique. On the 8th instant a Council of War was held, when it was resolved to send a sloop to Governor Codrington to acquaint him of our arrival and that it is impracticable to join his forces with ours in Antigua for the attack on Martinique, since to beat up from so far to leeward would take much time and sicken our men, so as to spoil the whole design. Copy of the letter is enclosed. Governor Kendall gives us good hope that the French are not very strong in Martinique so I hope we may be able to destroy a great part of the Island; but the fort is a strong European fortress which will be very hard to force with our strength. We hear they lose no time in. fortifying the landing-places, and there is a report that they have sent for men from Hispaniola. The Chester and Mermaid were sent to Governor Codrington to convoy his forces to the place of rendezvous, and a sloop sails to-night to Martinique to discover what naval strength they have in those parts, for we hear they have but two fourth-rates and a fifth-rate. Colonel Foulke and I have considered how to execute the sealed instructions which we opened here, and meanwhile we intend to say nothing of the matter. The attack on Cayenne, directed by the King's order of 13 December last, was dependent on the merchantmen's consent, and though I managed it as privately as I could, they unanimously refused to go, as the enclosed protest shows. As soon as Governor Codrington reports himself ready, we shall fix our day and embark from Martinique. The Governor, I suppose, has told you that the Norwich was blown from her anchors, and has not been heard of since, so that I met none of the King's ships but the Diamond, Captain Wickham, who some time since had a battle in sight of Martinique with the Mary Rose. They fought broadside to broadside for two hours, when the Mary Rose fairly ran away, and, being clean, outran the Diamond, which followed her within five leagues of Martinique. Everyone says that Captain Wickham played his part very well, and so the French captain sent word, and that our cannon played too fast for him, after firing three or four times. I beg you particularly to let the King know the care Governor Kendall has taken to influence the Council and Assembly to use the officers and men kindly. The kindness is carried to that pitch that the officers are as easy and as welcome in the gentlemen's houses as if they were their own. The Act directs that each freeholder who quarters soldiers must do it to content, or pay fifteenpence a day for each man to find himself. The ships that bring this are four or five which have lain here so long that, if they did not go hence, their bottoms would be spoiled by the worm. I have advised them to go north between Scotland and Ireland if possible and so into the Irish Sea, whence they must announce their arrival to London and await the convoy of one of the Channel cruisers.— Signed. Fra. Wheler. 3½ pp. Inscribed. R. April 26. Annexed,
	170. I. The Council of War at Barbados to Governor Codrington. 2 March, 1693. Sir Francis Wheler arrived here on the 28th February with twelve men-of-war, two regiments and recruits for the Blue regiment. At a Council of War this day it was resolved that it was very inconvenient that the forces here should go to Antigua, and that a frigate should be sent down to convoy the Leeward Islands' forces to join their forces off the leeward part of Martinique. We desire you to answer by the present express with all possible despatch at what time we may expect to meet your forces there. It was also resolved, for the encouragement of the Plantation forces, that as regards the distribution of booty, every regiment of the Plantations should consist of not less than 400 men. You are desired to acquaint us with the number of your forces, and to send with them at least two months' provisions and the mortars, field-pieces, etc., that were sent to you last year, as also the engineers. Signed by Governor Kendall, Sir F. Wheler, 11 field officers of the Army, 6 captains of the Navy. Copy. 1½ pp.
	170. II. Declaration of the captains of merchantmen in Sir F. Wheler's Fleet. Sir Francis having acquainted us that it is the King's pleasure that the men-of-war and transports should attack Cayenne, we declare that to go to any place before Barbados is against our charter-party, and that we cannot consent thereto; if we are forced to do so we must justify ourselves by law. Sixteen signatories. Copy. 1½ pp. [America and West Indies. 456. Nos. 46, 46 I., II.]
March 6. Barbados.	171. Colonel John Foulke to the Earl of Nottingham. Sir Francis has no doubt informed you of the reason that prevented us from pursuing the King's commands as to Cayenne. One transport is missing with 25 men of Colonel Goodwyn's regiment. We lost 3 officers and about 40 private men of the whole land-forces in our passage, and have about 90 men sick at present. Our reception has been very kind, and we hope that the refreshing quarters provided for the men will contribute to their speedy recovery. I shall not trouble you with the resolutions of the Council of War. The Barbados regiments will not exceed 400 men apiece; what reinforcement we may receive from the Leeward Islands is uncertain. I hope that the latter may be found ready to join us, that we may proceed to Martinique before our men sicken, which I very much apprehend. Signed. Jo. Foulke. 1½ pp. Endorsed. R. Apr. 26, '93. [America and West Indies. 456. No. 47.]
March 6. Barbados.	172. Colonel Robert Goodwyn to Earl of Nottingham. One transport, with about 25 men of Captain Degen's Company is missing. We hope she may have fallen down to leeward. No more than five or six men died at sea out of the whole, so that I doubt not of producing 750 men fit for service, as good men as perhaps may be seen in most regiments in the present service. I shall do my utmost to keep my men in health and discipline, to gain reputation and preserve your good opinion. Signed. Robert Goodwyn. Holograph. 1½ pp. Endorsed. R. Apr. 28, '93. [America and West Indies. 456. No. 48.]
March 6.	173. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Order for discharge of the ships hired for Captain Finch.
March 7.	Order for payment to Mr. Edward Hill for sixteen pair of wheels for the great guns. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 793, 794.]
March 6.	174. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. The disputed election for Northumberland County referred to the Committee of Elections. Address to the Governor, praying for their ancient privilege of electing their own Clerk. The thanks of the house given to Mr. Stephen Fance for his sermon yesterday. Resolved that the election for King's and Queen's County was invalid, and that a new writ be asked for.
March 7.	The election for Northumberland County considered. William Drummond empowered to appoint a deputy-messenger for distant errands. The election for Warwick decided in favour of Humphrey Harwood.
March 8.	A message from the Governor, showing precedents for his appointment of a Clerk of the Burgesses. Address of the Burgesses to the Governor, praying him to use his interest with the King to procure them restoration of their ancient privilege of appointing their own Clerk. Committees of grievances and of public claims appointed.
March 9.	Message from the Governor, that in the opinion of himself and Council he ought not to use his interest as requested in their message of yesterday. Peter Beverley was then sworn Clerk. Several grievances and claims read and considered.
March 10.	More grievances considered. William Randolph, elected for Henrico County, was sworn.
March 11.	Address to the Governor for a copy of his first speech to the Burgesses. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 946–956.]
March 6.	175. Minutes of General Assembly of Virginia. The Burgesses' address as to their Clerk received.
March 7.	New writ for King's and Queen's County granted. Answer to the Burgesses' address.
March 8.	Second address from the Burgesses as to their clerk received and answered.
March 9.	At the request of the Burgesses, Councillors were sent to swear in the Clerk.
March 11.	The Governor's speech and Peter Heyman's petition sent down to the Burgesses. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 895–901.]
March 6.	176. Minutes of General Assembly of Massachusetts. The Representatives, reporting that many of their members were employed as a Committee of Assessment, were adjourned.
March 7.	Bills for granting £500 to the Governor, and for granting land to Jane Kind, were passed. Report of the Committee for adding to the same granted for the public tax read and referred for further consideration. Resolved, that a suitable vessel be hired for their Majesties' service to cruise about Martha's Vineyard and to secure coasting vessels.
March 8.	Report of the Committee as to the public tax was again read and agreed to.
March 9.	The same report was again debated. Bill for dividing Essex County rejected.
March 10.	An order on the petition for settling the bounds of Little Compton was read and debated. Petition on behalf of Jeremiah Toy, confined on board H.M.S. Nonsuch, was read and recommended to the Governor.
March 11.	After conference, it was agreed with the Representatives as to the method of election for Councillors. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 382–385.]
March 7. Boston.	177. Governor Sir William Phips to the Lords of the Admiralty. I thank you for the seal of the Admiralty Office here. Pray let me have a special commission to appoint a judge, registrar and marshal, such power being excepted from my present commission. Signed. William Phips. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. at the Committee. 15 Jan., 1693–4. [Board of Trade. New England, 6. No. 37.]
March 8.	178. Governor Fletcher to Earl of Nottingham. As I closed my last I was summoned to Albany, owing to an invasion of the French. I have sent you home accounts of it. This Colony cannot support itself without help from the neighbouring Colonies, some of which do not own the Crown, but set up a Government which is grievous to many subjects. Connecticut is a sort of republic, and all the better sort of people are much dissatisfied and wish to be united to New York. During my absence the Council wrote to our neighbours for help. Connecticut sent no answer at all, Pennsylvania sent us good wishes, East Jersey £248, with a promise to make it up to £400. From the rest I have not heard. The Governor of New England is a machine moved by every fanatical finger, the contempt of wise men and the sport of fools. I beg for arms and accoutrements for 120 men. We can always beat the French if we can get money to pay and victual our men, but we are very poor, and the fur trade is quite lost by this war. A great deal of what is written in the letter of same date to William Blathwayt is repeated in this letter. Signed. Ben. Fletcher. Holograph. 2½ pp. Endorsed. R. July 18, '93.
	Duplicate of the foregoing. [America and West Indies. 579. Nos. 31, 32.]
March 8. New York.	179. Governor Fletcher to [William Blathwayt]. I was called from my last letter by the news of a French attack on the outskirts of this province, of which I send you a narrative. Our neighbours to right and left sit at their ease, and govern by their own fancies. Connecticut, full of people, keeps up a Commonwealth; those in power oppress the better sort who dissent from them, but will not send a man nor a sixpence to our relief. From that Colony I could march up men dry-foot to repel our enemies; from hence we have a voyage of fifty leagues to Albany. In my absence the Council writ to all the neighbouring Colonies for men or money. The Republic of Connecticut quarrel at the superscription of the letter for wanting their proper title. Pennsylvania says that it can send us nothing but good wishes. East Jersey has sent us £248 and promises to make it £400. The remoter Colonies I have not yet heard from. We have quite lost our fur trade. We pay 10 per cent. for money borrowed to carry on the war and I see no prospect of paying the principal. The fort is dropping down for want of repair; and so are the buildings, especially the Chapel. Nothing but an addition of Connecticut and some other Colonies can support us, by paying small duties to the Crown. The Navigation Acts are wholly violated by these outliers. I beg for arms for two troops of dragoons, which would be of great use on the frontiers. Two companies more of foot, whereof one for Major Peter Schuyler, who has behaved himself well and understands the Indian language and mode of fighting, would encourage these dispirited people. Though the French were beaten they are not satisfied that one of them should have got off; and had our Indians been true to us it was next to impossible that one of them should have escaped. I send this to Boston in hopes of a passage, if Sir W. Phips do not intercept it. Signed. Ben Fletcher. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 3 June, 1693. Abstracted in Board of Trade. New York, 48. pp. 46, 47. Annexed,
	179. I. Major Richard Ingoldsby to Governor Fletcher. Albany, 11 February, 1693. 10 at night. I gave you an account of the advance of the enemy to the Maqua Castles. They are there still, and I fear that they may compel our Indians to a peace. We have no account in what condition they are, though we have scouts out. Ten Christians and 40 Maquas have gone out to watch them, and the Indians are impatient since the Christians do not join them in an attack, which I thought inadvisable while they held so strong a position; but as soon as they move and we can have any Indians we think to send 300 of the Fusiliers and inhabitants in pursuit. I have all the provisions ready, which shall be sent to Senectady to-morrow. I have called in all the farmers and reinforced Senectady with 50 men. In all we have 600 men. I hear that the French despair of returning by ice, so are in no hurry to move. Can you send me some men? I expect 50 from Esopus to-morrow. I have sent Schuyler to Senectady with orders to send out scouts and pacify the Indians. I dare not tell them of the delay in sending men forward as we have always led them to believe that we are stronger than we are. The frontier is just manned for defence, and men cannot be spared so far off. I have given orders not to engage the enemy except at great advantage, for their design is desperate and they are short of provisions. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 19 July, 1693.
	179. II. Another copy of the preceding.
	179. III. Journal of Governor Fletcher's expedition Feb. 12, Sunday. About 10 or 11 o'clock at night an express from Lieutenant-Colonel Beeckman brought advice from Albany of 550 French and Indians being within twenty miles of Senectady on the 8th inst. an hour before daylight, ready to fall upon the two first castles of our Mohawks. The City militia was ordered to be drawn out next morning. Feb. 13. Orders for Colonels van Cortlandt and Willett to detail 150 men from their regiments to embark at the ferry. The Governor inspected the city regiment and called for volunteers, whereupon they unanimously threw up their hats, crying "One and all." 150 of the fittest were selected with three captains and their subalterns. Orders were sent to collect all the horses in Ulster County to carry the troops from Kingston to Albany by land, in case the river were not open. Feb. 14. Express from Major Ingoldsby arrived at daybreak, reporting the capture of the two Mohawk castles. Eight sloops with ammunition and stores were at once ordered to be ready to sail, and at 4 p.m. the Governor, with the detachment of the City Regiment and several volunteers, embarked and set sail. Feb. 17. The Governor arrived at Albany with five of the sloops about 9 o'clock; the rest arrived towards evening, having been delayed by ice. Captain Schuyler was ordered to march with 50 men at once to Senectady, and at 11 o'clock the Governor started with 16 horse, leaving Colonel Bayard with orders to send the other detachments forward as they arrived. At 3 p.m. Major Ingoldsby met the Governor about eight miles from Senectady, and 5 p.m. they arrived at Senectady, and at 9 p.m. Captain Schuyler marched in with his men (twenty miles) and found quarters and food ready for them. Feb. 18. The men were ready to cross the river at daybreak but were delayed till afternoon by a violent storm. Indian women carrying provisions were sent with them. At noon Major Merritt with the rest of the City detachment marched into Senectady. Feb. 19, Sunday. At daybreak the rest of the forces that were fit to march tried to cross the river, but were prevented by the ice, until at 10 a.m. the ice set for a time and they crossed on foot; but in two hours the river was open again. More stores were sent with this party. Feb. 20. The rest of the City detachment marched, their numbers being made up to 42 by men from the garrison of Senectady. They took with them thirteen horses laden with stores. At 2 p.m. Captain Stillwell arrived with 50 men of the King's County Militia at Senectady, and were halted till next morning, when three horses with stores were ordered to be ready for them. Feb. 21. The horses had been carried over the river and the men were about to cross, when a message came from Major Schuyler that he was returning. Since the Governor's arrival 208 effective men, with large quantities of stores and transport, had joined him. Feb. 22. The Governor returned from Albany with Major Schuyler and many of the troops that had abandoned pursuit of the enemy, reaching Senectady at 3 p.m. Major Schuyler and other officers were ordered to draw up an account of their action in the woods. At 4 p.m. arrived Colonel Willett with 120 men from Queen's County, who with the other detachments were ordered home next morning. At night the Governor sent to all the Indians who were returned from the fight to meet him next morning at Albany. Feb. 23. Proclamation for all outlying farmers to draw themselves into neighbourhood for their better protection. Feb. 24. The Governor received an address of thanks and congratulation from the Corporation of Albany. Feb. 25. The Governor met the Indians, made his speech and received their reply. Feb. 26. Four of the Sachems came to the Governor with further propositions, which he did not at once answer to their satisfaction. Feb. 27. After issuing a proclamation prohibiting the sale of rum to the Indians, we embarked for New York. Copy, attested 7 March, 1692–3. 4 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 19 July, 1693.
	179. IV. Another copy of the preceding.
	179. V. Journal of Peter Schuyler's operations against the French and Indians. Feb. 8, Wednesday. About 2 p.m. we had the news of the capture of the Mohawk castles, and soon after, through an escaped prisoner who came to Senectady, we heard that the French numbered 350 Christians and 200 Indians. Major Ingoldsby at once called in the farmers belonging to two companies of militia, and that night Lieutenant John Schuyler with 55 horse marched to Senectady. Feb. 9. An express came from Senectady begging that Major Schuyler or Major Wessels would come and pacify the Indians. Major Schuyler went that evening at his own request, and immediately on his arrival sent out scouts to spy out the forts and the enemy's motions; but they returned at midnight after going twelve miles, saying that they could not cross the river. Feb. 10. John Schuyler and another officer went to view the forts and brought news that the French were in both of them. Feb. 11. 10 Christians and 40 Indians sent out to lie near and watch the enemy. They made a small fort to retreat into and so spied what the enemy did. Feb. 12. The scouts brought news of firing at the Mohawks' forts, which was supposed to be that of the Tionondoge Indians against the French. The news was sent to Albany and Major Ingoldsby at once detached 200 men, who arrived at Senectady about 2 p.m. The scouts brought in further news that the French were still there and had cut off the third Mohawk castle, called Tionondoge, and that none of the upper Indians were come down. Major Schuyler sent to Albany for orders to march. Feb. 13. No answer coming to his letter, Major Schuyler sent a second message, but being pressed by the Indians, who threatened to desert us, was forced to march the men across the river without orders, which arrived at 4 p.m. At this very time the scouts reported that the French had burnt the Mohawk castles and marched away. We marched twelve miles that evening, being 273 Christians. At 10 p.m. a scout reported that 600 of our uppermost Indians were coming down. The messenger was sent on to Major Ingoldsby with a request for stores and ammunition to be sent after us. Feb. 14. Decamped about 2 a.m., reached our scouts' fort at 6 a.m., and heard that the enemy was not above eight miles from us. Scouts were sent forward, who reported that they had marched. News came in that 300 of our upper Indians were within twenty miles of us. Orders were sent to hasten them. Sent three Indians forward to discover the enemy, decamped at 4 p.m. and marched to the place where the enemy had lain the night before. Feb. 15. Two of our Indian scouts came in and reported the enemy within ten miles. At noon our Indians came up, about 290 men and boys armed and unarmed. At 4 p.m. marched and traversed ten miles. Consultation was held that night and spies sent forward. Feb. 16. Marched early and after going ten miles found where the enemy had lain two nights before. An Indian came from the enemy who had been sent to debauch our Indians. Message sent to Major Ingoldsby that the enemy had built a fort and meant to fight us, asking for provisions, ammunition and men. Marched on and met a wounded Indian; and two miles further on learning that the enemy were from 600 to 700 men and within three miles, pushed on to find a convenient camping ground and fortified it. Scouts, Christian and Indian, were out all night, who reported in the morning that we were within a mile of the fort. Feb. 17. Decamped, and fetched a compass, with scouts before us, for fear of an ambuscade. At 8 a.m. came in sight of the fort when our scouts came in and shewed us where the enemy lay. We were making ready to engage when the enemy seeing us gave three huzzas, which we answered with as many and as loud as they, and made the woods ring. Our Indians went to work to fell trees and fortify, but the enemy sallying out immediately, we engaged them and drove them back to their fort. The Indians again fell to work, the Christians helping them, when the French again sallied out with all their strength, crying out "They run and we'll cut them all off and get their provisions." We received them briskly and beat them back into their fort with loss of several men. Again we fell to work to build our fort, and a third time the enemy were beaten back into their fort with considerable loss. Sent an express to Major Ingoldsby praying him to hasten our recruits with food and ammunition, for most of our men had not had any provisions in two days time (sic). Scouts were sent out all night and we lay in our fort. It was extreme bad, cold, snowy weather. Feb. 18. The scouts reported the enemy still in their fort. At 9 a.m. an Indian deserter brought news that the French were packing their baggage. Major Schuyler ordered the men out to cut them off, but at the same time received news that they were fled; so he gave order to pursue them till our men and stores came up, but the men wanting provisions refused to march. The officers with 60 Christians and some Indians pursued the enemy to a small fortification, but having no troops to engage them left 40 men and 100 Indians to watch them, expecting our stores next morning. Feb. 19. Our stores came in and 80 men with them. The victuals were distributed and those first served were ordered away after the enemy with five biscuits a man. At 4 p.m. our van came up near the enemy's rear, and we desired the Indians to join us in an attack while we sent word to our people to march up with all haste. But the Indians halted and could not be persuaded to go on. After an hour most of our men came up, and we went on hoping to catch the enemy before they crossed the river, but there being a slake of ice in one part of the river they were over before we came up. Camped on the bank that night. Feb. 20. Major Schuyler resolved to cross the river, but many of the men being weary, their shoes worn out and provisions scarce, we could make no further pursuit. But what discouraged us most was the unwillingness of the Indians to pursue or attack. We lost four privates and four Indians killed, two officers, twelve men and Indians wounded. Escaped prisoners reported the enemy's loss to be thirty-three but we found but twenty-seven, among whom were their commandant and three other officers, and twenty-six wounded. We rescued between forty and fifty prisoners, and we hear that the enemy carry thirteen wounded with them. Copy. 7 pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
	179. VI. Another copy of the preceding.
	179. VII. Speech of Governor Fletcher to the Indians at Albany, 25 February, 1693. You know that I came here in October to put the frontier in a posture of defence. I come now for your relief and have lost no time. I brought 150 men with me; I sent you 200 men and stores from Senectady which with those that joined you before under Major Schuyler would, I hoped, have cut the enemy off; and I had 200 more men coming. I never thought that the Maquas would be so supine as to let the French enter their castles without resistance. In future you must keep strict watch. I hope that my coming shews how ready the King, my master, is to use his arms in your defence. I have borne command under him and seen the French fly from him; and last summer we gained a great victory at sea. Having come in haste I bring no presents with me, but I hope to visit you in summer and renew the old covenant-chain. I have ordered provisions to be given to the Mohawks; and you must shew that you still possess your old courage and reputation speedily. There is some false brother among us who betrays our plans. Bread and beer is ready for you, and you must drink to the King and Queen.
	The Five Nations to Governor Fletcher."Swift Arrow" (for so we have named you for coming so swiftly to us), the disaster to the Mohawks is due only to their not hearkening to your advice. We thank you for your care for them. You ask us to attack the enemy, but you have lost blood as well as we, and should join us. It is our custom first to bewail our dead. While we attack Canada by land, we expect to hear that you will attack it by sea. We are short of arms and ammunition, while the French Indians are bountifully supplied. We rejoice to hear of the King's victories, and we wish you would tell him how easy it would be to destroy Canada. Pray send a smith to live with us.
	The Governor replied that if they would keep good watch he doubted not that he could deal with the Governor of Canada; and granted their request as to the smith.
	Proposals made by four of the Chief Sachems to Governor Fletcher on 26 February, 1693. One of our men while drunk yesterday killed an Indian deserted from the French. Pray prohibit the sale of rum while the war lasts. We did not thank you as we wished yesterday, and desire to do so now. We will enquire as to the French prisoners, whom we suspect may betray us. We have had two bouts about the priest Millet with the Oneidas and shall have a third. Pray come when the bark is loose upon the trees, for we have a design in hand. We apologise for the young man who killed four horses; it was ill done.
	The Governor answered that he regretted that they should fight one another when an enemy was in the field, that he would do his best for their security, that he would prohibit the sale of rum, and that he hoped they would be vigilant. 9½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 19 July, 1693.
	179. VIII. Another copy of the preceding.
	179. IX. Address of the Mayor and Corporation of Albany to Governor Fletcher. Thanking him warmly for his unparalleled swiftness in coming with troops to their help; and asking him to order a place for convention of the remnants of the Mohawks, and to direct the outlying farmers to fortify themselves in companies together. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed as the preceding.
	179. X. Another copy of the preceding. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 7, 7 I–X.; and (without enclosures) 48. pp. 19–20.]
[March 8.]	180. Pamphlet containing printed versions of Enclosures Nos. III., V., VII., IX., of the preceding, also the examination of two escaped prisoners and one captured prisoner as to the condition of Canada. The whole, 13½ printed pages. Endorsed. Recd. 26 Sept., 1693. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 8.]
March 9.	181. Commissioners of Ordnance to William Blathwayt. Forwarding account of the stores despatched to the West Indies. Signed. C. Musgrave, John Charlton, Wm. Boulter, W. Meester. ½ p. Annexed,
	181. I. Account of ordnance stores despatched to the West Indies, under orders in Council of 25 August and 20 September, 1692. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 2. Nos. 44, 44I.; and (letter only) Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., p. 308.]
March 9.	182. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Montserrat. On the proposal of the Assembly, the Council consented (1) that during the absence of the detachment now bound for the expedition against the French, 16 of the troop be kept continually in arms to patrol each division of the Island for seven days and nights, and then be relieved by 16 more; also that they visit every guard nightly, and be subject in default to the penalties of the Militia Act; (2) that it be lawful for such patrols on meeting negroes without their owners' ticket, by day or night, to beat or slash them, and if negroes be congregated to disperse them, pistolling or killing them if need be. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 313, 314.]
March 9.	183. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Sir William Beeston sworn Lieutenant-Governor. Proclamation to continue all officers in their posts.
March 10.	The Royal order for a new seal, and the Governor's commission were recorded. Order for the old seal to be defaced. The Council and Clerk were sworn. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 242–244.]
March 10.	184. Information of John Stewart to Sir William Phips. That while Richard Short was a prisoner on board ship at Cape Ann he prevailed with informant to carry three letters to Piscataqua, one of them to Mr. Usher, who drank Short's health, promised safety to the ship if she had come to Piscataqua and that the deserters from H.M.S. Nonsuch should have been sent on board. 2 pp. [Board of Trade. New England, 6. No. 38.]
March 10.	185. Minutes of Council of New York. The Council gave it as their opinion that the neighbouring Colonies should contribute to the maintenance of the fort at Albany. A Committee appointed to consider what equipages the Governor should take with him on his next mission to meet the Indians at Albany. Letters from Connecticut read complaining of the arbitrary conduct of some pretended magistrates towards the people of that Colony. Resolved to write to them on behalf of the oppressed people, and to remind them that though they have exacted much money they have contributed nothing to the defence of the frontier. Orders for provisioning the garrison of Albany. Grant of land to Abraham Lockerman confirmed. Orders for sundry payments for provisions for the late expedition. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 400, 401.]
March 13.	186. Minutes of Council of New York. William Pinhorne recommended as Judge of the Supreme Court. Mr. Phillips authorised to charge double toll between sunset and sunrise at Spitendivell Bridge. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., p. 401.]
March 13.	187. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. More members of the Council sworn. Order for issue of writs for election of an Assembly, to meet on the first Thursday in May. William Broadrick sworn Attorney General. Order for repair of the fortifications of Port Royal to continue. Order that none except Councillors shall attend Council without leave, and that people duly qualified may be allowed to leave the Island as formerly. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 245.]
March 13.	188. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. The Governor sent copy of his speech, and also Peter Heyman's petition as to the Post with the royal letters thereon, which was referred to the Committee of Propositions. The Council's proposal for building a new prison was referred to the same Committee.
March 14.	Report of Committee of Propositions read. Resolved that the Act for better defence of the country be continued for one year and that a bill be prepared accordingly. Resolved to address the Governor for a copy of the royal instructions as to free trade with the Indians. Bill to suspend the Act for Ports ordered. Resolved to address the Governor for a joint Committee for revision of the laws. Address to the Governor in accordance with above resolutions. Order for a bill to enable the lands south of James River to the boundaries of Carolina to be settled, and for a bill concerning foreign corn.
March 15.	The proposals concerning Rangers, received from the Council, were considered, and it was resolved that the case is met by the Act for better defence. Address to the Governor as to revision of the laws, approved.