|
| Aug. 1. |
Order for withdrawing the friendly Indians in the neighbourhood of Mendon and Woodstock within those towns. Permission granted to the French at New Oxford to stockade the most suitable houses therein; two Englishmen to take up their residence there and superintend. A Committee appointed to assess the damage done in Long Island by the recent landing and entertainment of troops there. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 244–246.] |
| Aug. 1. |
484. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Orders for sundry payments. The Assembly brought up a bill appointing a controller of the duty on liquors. Mr. Bond gave the Governor an Order in Council disallowing the Act to regulate elections. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 416–418.] |
| Aug. 1. |
485. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. Bill passed to appoint John Pilgrim controller of the duty on liquors. The house then waited on the Governor, who informed them that Colonel Francis Russell had been appointed to succeed him, and asked for provision for his expense on leaving Government House. The House voted him a present of £500, and ordered that 6 pipes of Madeira wine, 2 tuns of beer and 1,000 lbs. of best sugar should be laid in at Fontabelle for the reception of the new Governor. This order and the bill for a present to the Governor were then carried to his Excellency. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., pp. 349, 350.] |
Aug. 2.
Boston. |
486. Chidley Brooke to Governor Fletcher. I reached this on 7th at 7 p.m., and immediately went to wait on Sir W. Phips and Sir Francis Wheler at his Excellency's house. I delivered your letter and expected that Sir William would have asked me some questions as to New York, but instead thereof he entertained me with a flat harangue as to the expense that New England had been at since the present war, the poverty of its people, etc., I suppose to soften me to take a better impression of his answers to my questions. I said little that night, but he desired me to come next day, which I did twice, but found him not at home; I did the like next day in vain. On the 1st inst. I went again with Colonel Depeyster and some others, when we were fortunate enough to find him at home and with him a gentleman of the Council. He desired us to sit down, and asked how you did. I said, well, but struggling hard to support a tottering Government which (maugre all your endeavours) must fall speedily to ruin unless assisted by him and by the other Colonies to defend the frontier at Albany. This put him into a ferment. I waited till his passions cooled a little and then told him of your difficulties, the wavering temper of our Indians, their weariness of the war, the great presents you were forced to give them when last at Albany, the great taxes repeated upon us, the harassing of the people (to the great depopulation of the province) for defence of the frontier. I then proceeded to demand 200 men, furnished at all points and paid by his Government, as a fit quota from the same, pursuant to the royal order, and told him that it was your order to me to demand that number. This threw him into a rude passion. What he said was loud and angry, but so confused that I knew not what to make of it. At length I understood him to say, "I will not send a man nor a farthing to the assistance of New York—and monstrous to suppose I should. I could not keep myself from replying, "'Tis then, Sir, the monstrous thought of the Queen." "How? how?" said he, "a monstrous thought of the Queen" (repeating the words three or four times angrily over). "Yes," said I, "for had not her Majesty and the Council of England thought it reasonable that you and the rest of their Majesties' Governments should send aid to New York, no letter had been directed to you or to them to that end." The next thing that I moved to him was to send commissioners to New York in October next to agree as to the quotas of men and money, pursuant to the royal letter. This aggravated his former heat and made him angrily say, "If they have no other business no commissioners shall come from me." I found his reason was drowned in passion
and the storm increasing, so thought it high time to leave him. The gentlemen of the Council present all the while seemed ashamed of his behaviour and desired me to blame his education for what I saw. I told one of them that the Governor was very hot. He answered, "Sir, you must pardon him his dog-days; he cannot help it." I observe that the people here are highly taxed and no less displeased at the ill pennyworth they have for their money. Their Governor is little feared and little loved. He selects his company out of the mob for the most part, amongst whom noise and strut pass for wit and prowess. Some few of the better sort pay him respect and compliment for their ease's sake, rather than for any esteem they have for him; the rest ridicule him. Several of the late Assembly told me that they could get no account of the country's money when required, nor any reason why the country was so much in debt; that his whole "managery" was very crooked, tending much more to his own interest than the good of the people. New York in the midst of calamities has this comfort, that her taxes are applied for her defence and safety only, that the accounts are at all times open to the Assembly if desired, and that your watchful care gives the people all reasonable hope of security. All this is wanting here. Signed. Chid. Brooke. Holograph. 3 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 20 Dec. 1693, from Colonel Fletcher. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 23.] |
| Aug. 2. |
487. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for payment for materials for repairing Fort Charles. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 254, 255.] |
Aug. 2.
Antigua. |
488. Minutes of the General Council and Assembly of the Leeward Islands. Act for additional fortifications on Monk's Hill, and additional Act to the Act for encouraging importation of white servants passed. The Assembly accused Colonel Hill of cowardice, violence, oppression and conniving at an open trade. The Council undertook to summon him to answer the same. Orders for sundry payments, and for the goods of Major Joseph Crispe to be taken in custody by the Treasurer. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 239–241.] |
| Aug. 2. |
489. Minutes of the Council and Assembly of Montserrat. Proposals of the Lieutenant-Governor and Council to the Assembly. (1) We beg you to consider the question of fortifications, which was deferred this day. (2) The arms being out of order we propose to send them to Barbados for repair, also a fit person to buy lead, powder and flints there. (3) We call your attention to the debts of the country and suggest the expediency of raising a levy. (4) Negroes having become very insolent of late we desire you to take further measures to prevent this. (5) We are willing to assent to the Act for easing of tenants which we formerly rejected, and desire you to draw up an Act accordingly. Answer of the Assembly. (1) We readily assent to fortification of Palmeto Point, and that an Act be passed for enforcing the employment of every twentieth negro in the work, owners who have not twenty negroes being joined together so as to make up twenty. (2) We beg you to
appoint a fit person to go to Barbados, and we will provide for payment to him. (3) We are willing to raise a levy, and wish that an assessment be made forthwith. (4) We desire to renew the Act to restrain the insolence of negroes with such additions as you think fit. (5) We agree to pass the Act for easing of tenants and ask you to appoint a Committee to join with us in drawing up an Act. The Council concurred in all these matters with the Assembly. Further proposals of the Assembly. (a) That the arms of the Militia be placed in the custody of the officers, and that all the officers be duly commissioned. (b) That the Secretary, Marshal and Treasurer give bond for due performance of their office. (c) That a fitting person be appointed to inspect and be responsible for the repair of the fortifications. (d) We would point out that our former Acts are not sent home, so are unconfirmed, and being unrenewed are set at defiance. (e) We propose the building of a magazine to windward. Two gentlemen have undertaken to house the powder till it be built. The Council concurred in all of these proposals. [Col. Entry Bk. Vol. XLVIII., pp. 317–320.] |
Aug. 3.
Whitehall. |
490. Order of the Queen in Council. Referring the petition of Sir Richard White to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Wm. Bridgeman. ¼ p. Annexed, |
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490. I. Petition of Sir Richard White to the Queen. For admission of his appeal against a decision of the Court of Jamaica given against him in a suit with St. Jago de Castillo. Copy. 1 p. The whole Endorsed, Read, 15 Sept. 1693. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. Nos. 20, 20 I.; and (without enclosure) 53. p. 165.] |
| Aug. 3. |
491. Minutes of Council of New York. Order for sundry payments. The accounts for the Governor's visit to Albany presented, amounting to £799, in all of which £346 is unpaid, which latter sum was ordered to be discharged. A Committee appointed to design and superintend the building of a new chapel in the fort. Patent for land in New York granted to Peter Sloutenburgh. Overseers appointed to superintend the fitting of Albany Fort with new stockades. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 447–448.] |
| Aug. 8. |
492. Minutes of Council of Barbados. The question was brought up whether the Assembly was duly elected, the elections having been held under an Act which had been disallowed. |
| Aug. 9. |
The Speaker and eleven members of Assembly appeared and asked for an adjournment. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 419, 420.] |
| Aug. 8. |
493. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. Message from the Governor that the Council had voted the Assembly to be legal. Adjourned till to-morrow. |
| Aug. 9. |
Twelve members only present, five others being sick. The twelve waited on the Governor and told him that in their opinion the Assembly was legal. The Governor discoursed to them of the undue measures taken to procure the disallowance of the late Election Act, and to influence members to believe that the present Assembly was illegal. Adjourned to 22nd. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., pp. 350–352.] |
Aug. 10.
Whitehall. |
494. Order of the Privy Council. Referring a memorial of the Commissioners for the Leeward Islands to Lords of Trade and Plantations for their report. Signed. Wm. Bridgeman. ¼ p. Annexed, |
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494. I. Memorial of the Commissioners for the Leeward Islands to the Queen. Representing the danger of the Islands since the departure of Sir F. Wheler's squadron and the great loss of the inhabitants through war and sickness; and requesting that a new squadron may be sent out, and that if Colonels Foulke's and Goodwyn's regiments return to the Leeward Islands they may be reduced into one regiment under Governor Codrington, since both of the said Colonels and most of the officers are dead. Signed. Bastian Bayer, Rd. Cary, Jeff. Jeffreys, Joseph Martyn. Certified copy. 1 p. The whole endorsed, Recd. 7 Sept. 1693. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 4. Nos. 18, 18 I.; and 44. pp. 151–152.] |
| Aug. 10. |
495. Minutes of Council of New York. Orders for sundry small payments. Survey of the plantations on the Killrancull in Staten Island presented. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 448, 449.] |
| Aug. 10. |
496. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Montserrat. Joint Committee appointed to settle the public accounts. William Irish sworn of the Council. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 320, 321.] |
| Aug. 12. |
497. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for demanding £721 due from Lord Inchiquin's Attorney to the revenue of the Island. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. p. 255.] |
| Aug. 15. |
498. Minutes of Council of Barbados. The Governor addressed a speech to the Council as to the legality of the Assembly now sitting, and called upon the Councillors to sign a declaration to that effect, which they did. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 420–425.] |
| Aug. 15. |
499. Governor Fletcher to Earl of Nottingham. I have received no orders from you yet, though I have sent home full reports, and copies of all documents. I have written at length to Mr. Blathwayt and beg your countenance to us in all matters relating to defence. I heard from Mr. Povey that you had written to me by another ship. He told me that I have been given command of the Connecticut Militia, which will be of great advantage if I can make them raise money for their payment. I have daily complaints against the republicans. I wish my commission would come, being hard put to it for men. I shall now have to make many journeys to Connecticut and Pennsylvania, for which I have no salary. A sailor has lately died intestate worth £500. My predecessors looked on the taking of this as a right, but I cannot. I blush to ask for it, and yet I must ask you to pardon me if I do. Sir F. Wheler's departure startles us all. Signed. Ben. Fletcher. Holograph. 3 pp. [America and West Indies. 579. No. 34.] |
| Aug. 15. |
500. Governor Fletcher to William Blathwayt. As soon as I received the royal commands for the Government of Pennsylvania I went thither and tarried about six weeks, but could not prevail
with the people to settle a revenue to defray the expenses of Government nor to give assistance to New York. They would pay no regard to the Queen's letter, so that instead of a help they are likely to prove a trouble. As soon as I returned I went to Albany to confirm the old covenant-chain with the staggering Indians of the Five Nations; from whence being lately returned, I understand that the French are gathering in all their strength from their many small fortifications in the Canada River to Quebec and Montreal, and are bidding liberally for a peace with the Indians. I have endeavoured all in my power to hinder this, but my arm is shortened from want of assistance. Count Frontenac is busy with his fortifications at Quebec and if let alone for a year or two more will require an experienced officer and a considerable force to turn him out. If we lose our Indians, Virginia, Maryland and all our neighbours will have their hands full. I do all I can to prevent this and write often to them, but all the help I have received this year is £600 from Virginia, New York money, and £300 sterling from Maryland. Sir William Phips will give nothing. A stone fort is wanting at Albany, and money to build it. I have fixed the first Wednesday in October for a meeting of Commissioners to settle the quota of the several provinces for defence of Albany; but it is doubtful if they will come or do anything to the purpose. If I have not the absolute government of Connecticut, it will be hard to bring them to anything. H.M.S. Aldborough is of little use, being a dull sailer and too weak for the privateers that infest our coasts. Captain Chant deserves a better ship. A frigate of thirty guns, that sails well, would be of service. Mr. Dudley is gone to England. Mr. Pinhorne, having removed to New York, has been re-admitted to Council. The revenue is settled for but two years, notwithstanding all my efforts to have it settled on Their Majesties' lives. The people said they were unequal to the burden. Connecticut, Pennsylvania and the Jerseys pay nothing and are under no duty: our inhabitants flee there for ease and leave us almost destitute. We cannot muster 3,000 men now, whereas a few years ago we could muster 5,000. If the three provinces above named were united into one Government with us the burden would be light, and the cause of complaint removed. Pray do your best for the province, and to obtain us stores. I have sent Mr. Brooke to Boston to consult Sir Francis Wheler. Signed. Ben. Fletcher. 3 pp. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 24; and 48. pp. 56–58.] |
| [Aug. 15.] |
501. A collection of papers forwarded with the preceding letter. |
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501. I. Propositions of the Skachkook Indians to Stephanus Van Cortlandt, Nicholas Bayard and Peter Schuyler, commissioners acting for Governor Fletcher. Albany, 15 June, 1693. |
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The Skachkooks spoke as follows: We have been for long as in great darkness, but now the sun shines again. We thank you for the protection of our wives and children while we were absent hunting. We were received as children of your government twenty years ago, and seeing that some of our people are detained in New England on suspicion of a murder at Deerfield we submit
the whole to His Excellency's judgment. We beg for his protection; and since the French are potent let us keep our eyes open. |
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Propositions made by the Maquas, 21 June 1693; Governor Fletcher being present besides the above Commissioners. "Lord of the Swift Arrow," when our castles were destroyed by the French this spring you came up very speedily for our succour and relief, and promised to come to us again. You are heartily welcome. We have kept good watch, as you bade us, by sending a party into the enemy's country, which has brought back three scalps; but the provisions and ammunition were given us by you. We earnestly desire you to continue such favour to us, for we are a poor people and have lost all by the war. But our obligations to you are so great that we would not wait for the other nations in our haste to thank you. It was particular kindness of you to send for the release of our people who were detained in New England, before we had learned of it ourselves; and to shew our gratitude we give you a Christian prisoner taken from Canada. |
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Governor Fletcher replied by thanking them for their good service, promising future favour and assistance, and distributing presents. |
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On the 2nd of July, about 9 p.m. the Speaker of the Five Nations with two Sachems of the Onandagas desired a private conference with Governor Fletcher. They spoke as follows. We have heard much of a desire to subdue Canada with a fleet. Our young men are eager to make an end of the war. Tell us the truth, that we may know how to manage them. We have often had changes of Governors. As soon as they have learned our ways, they are gone. We wish to know how long you will stay, for we do not wish you to go. We remember how speedily you came to our help in the spring. |
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The Governor answered:—The great King my master knows best his own time for taking Canada. As yet we have no notice of any such design. When we receive it, I shall at once acquaint you. I stay here only during my master's pleasure, but be sure that I shall be here long enough to see Canada subdued. |
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On the 3rd July, the Governor made a speech to the Five Nations. I was disappointed in not coming to you as early as I designed, for I was obliged by the King's order to go to Pennsylvania, and for a week after my return was indisposed. But now I am come, and I have taken care to strengthen the frontiers. I have told you before that the enemy cannot harm you unless you are careless and enfeeble yourselves by drunkenness. Drunkenness is the worst vice of martial men, so be sober and vigilant. The blow you received last winter is fresh in our memories; and you know that it came from your supine humour. You know that I marched from Senectady on
the day that the enemy was defeated. Could I have joined you before the engagement not a man of the enemy would have escaped. You promised to check all irregular actions of your young men; but I had intelligence on my journey hither of a barbarous murder committed at Deerfield, and that three of your people were imprisoned on suspicion of the same. I have sent to New England such evidence as I could collect here. The Maquas have shown signs that they have not lost their ancient valour, and have given me a French prisoner, who tells me that the French lost 80 killed and 33 wounded in their attack on the Maquas last winter. I am told that some of you are wavering and inclined to peace with the enemy. This must be the work of the Jesuit Milet, who will only delude and betray you. I advise you to remove him from among you. I am now come to promise you protection and to renew the old covenant-chain. Here follows a list of presents given, including 86 guns, 800 lb. of powder. |
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On the 4th of July, the Five Nations made their answer as follows. We are glad that you are come to renew the covenant not only for your Government but for all the provinces. We heard nothing of Milet living among the Oneidas till we came here, and we were surprised to hear that he had sent letters to Canada. Do not be alarmed at any misbehaviour of our prisoners, for we shall never countenance it for the future; and on your side take care that none of your prisoners correspond with the enemy, as we suspect was done by Chevalier D'Eaux. We are resolved to stick to the war, and shall be steadfast to the last drop of our blood. We thought that a fleet was fitting out against Canada, which gave great joy to our young men, who hoped to end the war at a push. We have one request to make, that you will not leave us, for you know our ways. We are glad to hear that Pennsylvania is put under your Government, and hope you will bring some of the men here to fight. We are glad that the Shawanees came to you for protection, and wish they would come and assist us against the common enemy. Pray let us have a smith and a gun-stock-maker to keep our arms in order. Here they gave their presents of furs. In the evening the Governor asked several of the leading Sachems on board H.M.S. Aldborough, when at their desire he told them of the past victory of the English fleet over the French last summer, and of the battle on land where the King attacked the enemy in their camp because they would not come out to fight him [Steenkirk], when many men were slain on both sides. He also encouraged them to renew their ancient valour, reminded them to drive Milet for driving them, and bade them be faithful to the alliance; after which five of the Aldborough's guns were fired. It was noticed that the Indian most suspected and known to be a particular friend of Milet sang a warsong of threats against the French, and promised that all letters for Canada should be sent down to New York. |
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The Governor further spoke to the Sachems in private conference, and told them that it was time for them to go and secure their castles. But first he required an answer to his proposals, as follows. I hear of no satisfaction offered for some horses killed by your young men, of which complaint was long ago made. Again you have said nothing about the priest Milet. I will give you a pretty Indian boy in exchange for him. Lastly you have said nothing of the men imprisoned in New England on suspicion of murder. |
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The Sachems answered as follows. We forgot about the horses; but any Indians who kill any cattle, etc., of the Christians shall give satisfaction in future. As to the priest I am willing to take the boy in exchange for him, but not until the return of the messenger from Canada; and the boy may stay here till we bring the priest. As to the murder we believe it to be the work of Canadian Indians; and we doubt not that the people in New England will be patient till this be ascertained. The Five Nations do propose to make peace with the Dionondades, a nation in alliance with the French. This will strengthen us and weaken the enemy; and we desire your approval hereof. Whereat the Governor signified his approval. |
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On the 5th July, the Governor then bade the Indians go back and keep a strict watch, as the enemy were supposed to be on march for Cadaraqui, for some unknown design, and wished them a safe return and good success. They promised to obey his orders and thanked him. |
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On the 6th July the Governor called to him certain of the Sachems to whom he reported his recommendations, and presented rich laced coats and other presents. He also made a speech to the River Indians as follows. This is the first time that I have met you, and I come to tell you what I like and what I dislike in your conduct. Some of you have fought valiantly in attacking the enemy; but on the other hand you have all gone hunting, leaving no one to protect your wives and children. You must give me notice when you go in future, and leave a sufficient force for protection behind you. Again, when you return from hunting you drink away the labour of months in a few days and you come home beggars. From henceforth you should bring the profits of your hunting home to support you the rest of the year. I hear that the enemy send out small parties to kill some and capture others. You should send out men against them to knock such on the head, and fifty shillings shall be given you for every head which is killed within three miles of Albany or Senectady. I now renew the covenant with you and promise you protection. |
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The River Indians answered, promising obedience and amendment, and giving thanks for the measures taken by the Governor as to the suspected Indians in confinement in New England. The whole, 27 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 20 Dec. 1693. |
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501. II. Peter Schuyler to Governor Fletcher. Albany, 25 July, 1693. Last night the Maqua, whom I had sent to Onandaga to learn intelligence, returned with the news that the French design against the Five Nations was all stories; but he had letters from Canada, the Jesuit's messenger being returned two days before he came to Oneida. I was in hopes that the Oneidas would have sent us the packet before it reached the Jesuit's hands, but perusing the superscription I found there two letters addressed to Dr. Dellius, one from the Jesuit himself and one from the superior at Canada. I asked why the letters had not been taken and sent straight to you, but my messenger told me that the Jesuit has a great authority among the Oneidas as any Sachem of them all, and rules the roost there so that little good can be expected so long as they are guided by an enemy. The letters themselves will show you what the French are about; I believe them to be written at the instance of the Governor of Canada. I thought this business of such moment that I was in the mind to come over to you for advice, but fearing accidents in the meantime have sent Dr. Dellius and Mr. Robert Livingston to you. I need not tell you how weary the Five Nations are of the war, nor of how ill consequence it is to have such a general meeting at Onandaga devised by the French, to divert them from incursions on their frontier this season and to spin out time till they are ready to attack them or us. At present I presume that the Governor dares not leave Quebec. Beyond all doubt some great design is at the root of his efforts to make peace with the Five Nations, or else things are very low with him. In the latter case it is a pity that our fleet should let slip the opportunity. The messenger at Oneida is said to brag loudly of the strength of the fortifications of Quebec. I was quite resolved to send my own messenger back to dissuade them from any meeting (which will not be effected without difficulty, for it is only invented by the French to amaze them) and withal to encourage them to prosecute the war against Canada with vigour, but thought better first to await your orders, which please despatch as soon as possible. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed, Recd. 26 Sept., 1693. |
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501. III. Information of Jurian, the Maqua messenger sent to Onandaga by Major Schuyler. On arrival at Oneida he found out that the story of a French march to Cadaraqui was false, but heard that the messenger sent to Canada this spring by the Jesuit Milet was returned two days before with letters from Count Frontenac. Milet refused to give up these letters, saying that there was a letter from Dr. Dellius that they might have, but that he would rather throw the rest into the fire than give them up. An Oneida then said to him that if the letters were thrown into the fire the belt of peace sent by the Governor of Canada should be thrown into the fire too, and asked why the
Jesuit was so much incensed. The Jesuit answered that there would be a general meeting of all the nations at Onandaga, when the letters should be read. The Jesuit finally refused to give up the letters, having great sway in the Indian Castle. The Sachems of Oneida have also sent belts of wampum and a letter to Governor Fletcher saying that the Five Nations have concluded to hold a meeting of themselves, the Christians of New York and the Mahekanders as to this belt of peace sent by the Governor of Canada; for Count Frontenac had said that though he was ready to make an immediate attack on the Five Nations, he would wait two months for their answer. The Mohocks who went out fighting towards Canada six weeks ago have all deserted to the French. 2 pp. Copy. Endorsed, Recd. 26 Sept. 1693. |
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501. IV. Claude Bablin, Superior of the Jesuits of Canada, to Godefridus Dellius, at Albany. Quebec, 1 July, 1693. Father Milet who is a prisoner at Oneida has let me know of your bounty and charity in giving him presents. I pray God to reward you, and I assure you that it would be a great satisfaction to me if I could be of any service to you in Canada. I beg you to continue your assistance to him, and I will order satisfaction to be given you at any port of France where you may have a correspondent, if you will inform me through Father Milet or any other channel. Renewed thanks. Copy. 1 p. |
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Peter Milet to Godefridus Dellius. Oneida, 31 July, 1693. My messenger has returned from Canada with a letter of Count Frontenac saying that it is not his fault if the whole world, and above all the Iroquois Indians, are not at peace, though he is in a better condition than ever for war. He has stopped all the fighting parties from going out, and has promised not to move himself for two months, having summoned the chiefs of the Five Nations to meet him and conclude a peace, which the Christians of Oneida have desired of him. Pray let your gentlemen know this, that they may not hinder a peace. Postscript.—The Oneidas wish me to add that they do not wish the boy offered to them to be sent here, but require one who understands the Scriptures well. Jurian, the Maqua, being come here, has learned that the Indians imprisoned in New England have been wrongfully accused. They complain of wrongful suspicions, and of tampering with the letters which were sent to Onandaga three or four years ago. They desire therefore that nothing may be altered in this present letter. I am a servant of the English and would give my life to be of service to them. Father Lamberville writes me that he has seen Mr. Nelson at Paris. He says that if the English really knew us they would not mistrust us as they do. I am obliged to the English for wishing for my release, but it seems that God keeps me prisoner and none save Him can deliver me, and with this I
comfort myself. I beg the English to remember that I have contributed to the restoration of seven English prisoners, two of them young children, who were clothed in black of my own clothes. Their mother told me that if I came to Virginia she would go miles to meet me. The last was a young girl, in return for whom Major Andros promised four Indians. I have never been thanked, and I suppose that Major Andros had gone to England before the girl arrived. I look to God for my reward, and I say this only to show that I am a friend of the English. This Count Frontenac is the same who formerly sent twenty English back to Boston, who had been captured by the River Indians. Why then is peace so long delayed? The innocent suffer with the guilty. Copy. 3½ pp. The whole Endorsed, Recd. 26 Sept. 1693. |
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501. V. Governor Fletcher to the Sachems of the Five Nations. Fort William Henry, New York, 31 July, 1693. I am astonished that after our late renewal of the covenant you should receive a belt of peace from the Governor of Canada and propose a meeting at Onandaga to treat for peace. You should never have defiled your hands by touching that belt. You know that Albany has always been the ancient place of meeting. I have often warned you that the Jesuit Milet would betray your Councils; and now he has refused to deliver up his letters from Canada lest the poison should be discovered. It is clearly owing to him that the Oneidas have treated with our common enemy and proposed a meeting at Onandaga; all of which defiles our covenant. I hope that you will abhor all thoughts of consent thereto, and that in proof of your innocence you will send Milet to me with all his papers, according to your promise. If the Governor of Canada had proposed peace first to me I should have sent for you to Albany to inform you thereof. Hearken not to the Governor of Canada and hold no correspondence with him without my knowledge and consent. I am true to my promise to protect you, and am not afraid of any force that he can send. Copy. 2 pp. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. Nos. 24 I.–V.] |
Aug. 15.
New York. |
502. Governor Fletcher to Lords of the Treasury. I am sorry that my endeavours for supply of the West Indian fleet will be lost. I fear that its not proceeding to Canada may lose the Indians to us. The cost of providing naval stores is as follows:—Tar at 12s. per 31 gallons, flax at 6d. per 1b., hemp 4d. per 1b. No rosin is made here. Signed. Ben. Fletcher. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 4 Oct. 1693. [Board of Trade. Plantations General, 2. No. 61; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. C., p. 325.] |
| Aug. 16. |
503. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Montserrat. Acts for fortification of Palmeto Point and for restraining the insolence of negroes passed. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., p. 321.] |
| Aug. 17. |
504. Minutes of General Council and Assembly of the Leeward Islands. Sundry petitions heard and dealt with. John Blackleach's
name added to the members of the coming Special Court. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 242–244.] |
| Aug. 17. |
505. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Further orders as to payment of the money due from the late Lord Inchiquin to the revenue. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 255, 256.] |
| Aug. 17. |
506. Minutes of Council of New York. Patent for land ordered to Ryck Abrahamse. Order for sundry payments. |
| Aug. 18. |
The Governor reported intelligence from Boston of the arrival of a French force on the coast, designed to attack New York province and city, and added that he had already warned the Colonels of Militia to see that their regiments were fit for service. Resolved that it is expedient to transport ten of the largest guns to Sandy Point at the mouth of the Hudson River in New Jersey. The Governor announced that he would ask Governor Hamilton and his Council to meet him there. |
| Aug. 19. |
The Governor reported that since the fortifications would not be strong enough to repel a French fleet if it anchored before the city, it would be necessary to have a large land force, which would require to be fed; and it was therefore resolved to prohibit the exportation of grain. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 449–452.] |
Aug. 18.
New York. |
507. Governor Fletcher to the Earl of Nottingham. The want of a seal for Pennsylvania is an obstruction to business, and I beg that one may be sent. Some Quakers who have acted in the Government by Mr. Penn's commission and are very fond of lording it over their brethren are now sending their delegates to Court in the hope of getting Mr. Penn restored or themselves empowered to act, or failing that, to ask to be put under Maryland. These gentleman all refused my commission. I observed Mr. Thomas Lloyd creep away when he saw me order the Royal Commission to me to be published. I sent for him and offered him the first place on the Council Board, knowing that he would not accept it, and I took care to have some present to bear witness of his pride. The others, David Stead, Tho. Duckett, John Simcock, Griffith Owen aud John Bristow are less men, but have always opposed the King's service as far as in them lay. I received an address from the peaceable and loyal inhabitants of Philadelphia County and I hear that the like are preparing in other counties. This will show you that those who will trouble you are but a faction. Signed. Ben. Fletcher. Holograph. 2½ pp. Endorsed, R. Oct. 4, '93. [America and West Indies. 579. No. 35.] |
| Aug. 18. |
508. Abstract of a letter from Governor Fletcher to Lords of Trade and Plantations. He has put a stop to proceedings upon recognizances taken from persons concerned with Leisler; but several of them had been estreated and the money disposed of for support of the Government. He has no order to restore the money, nor can it be spared, for the Government is already much in debt. |
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Abstract of a letter from the same to the Lords of the Treasury. 15 August, 1693. He fears that the fleet's not proceeding to Canada will drive the Indians into the arms of the French. As to naval stores, tar is produced at 12s. per barrel, flax at 6d; per lb., hemp at 4d. per pound. No rosin is made. The quantities are
small, but the soil agreeable to improvement. 1 p. [Board of Trade. New York, 5. No. 25; and 48. p. 48.] |
Aug. 18.
Whitehall. |
509. John Povey to Mr. Sotherne. Forwarding copies of two letters received by merchants from Jamaica (see No. 349) and asking for the report of the Admiralty thereon in time for next meeting of the Committee of Plantations. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 21.] |
| Aug. 21. |
510. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. The Governor reported the treaty made with the Eastern Indians. Order for acquainting the Government of New Hampshire thereof, and for reducing the frontier garrisons. Order for John Walley to go to Bristol and make preparations for the forthcoming Assize Court there. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 246–247.] |
| Aug. 21. |
511. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. The laws of several of the Colonies were presented, and referred to the Attorney General. Report of the Attorney-General on draft charters for trading Companies to New Jersey and Pennsylvania. |
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The report of the Commissioners of the Post Office on Benjamin Skutt's petition read, and copy of the petition sent to the Commissioners of Customs. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. p. 202.] |
| Aug. 22. |
512. John Povey to the Secretary to the Customs. Forwarding copy of Benjamin Skutt's petition (No. 383) for report of the Commissioners. Draft. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 5. No. 25.] |
| Aug. 22. |
513. John Povey to the Attorney General. Forwarding the Acts of Barbados of 1690 and 1692, for his report. List of the Acts. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 375–378.] |
| Aug. 22. |
514. John Povey to the Attorney and Solicitor General. Forwarding the Acts of New York passed in 1690 and 1692 for their report thereon. Here follows a list of the Acts. [Board of Trade. New York, 48. pp. 38–42.] |
Aug. 22.
Whitehall. |
515. John Povey to the Attorney and Solicitor General. Forwarding the Acts of Maryland for their opinion, with the exception of two which have been already disallowed. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 8. p. 123.] |
| Aug. 22. |
516. John Povey to the Attorney General. Forwarding the Acts of Massachusetts passed in 1692, for his report. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXII., p. 458.] |
| Aug. 22. |
517. John Povey to the Attorney or Solicitor General. Forwarding Acts received from the Leeward Islands for their opinion. Signed. John Povey. ½ p. Annexed, |
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517. I. List of Acts passed in the Leeward Islands, 1692. |
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A. Acts passed in the General Assembly of all the Islands. |
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(1) Act to empower certain persons to recover certain moneys for the public service from Joseph Crispe and others. |
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(2) Act to explain an act for rewarding the soldiers who served in the late expedition to St. Christophers, and for taking away benefit of clergy for stealing of negroes and slaves. |
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(3) Act to continue an Act appointing commissioners to manage the affairs of the Leeward Islands. |
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(4) Act to continue an Act for speedily getting in the plunder due to the army in the expedition to St. Christophers. |
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(5) Act for settling General Assemblies and Councils. |
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B. Acts passed in the Assembly of Nevis. |
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(1) Act for settling General Assemblies and Councils for the Leeward Islands. |
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(2) Act for easing of tenants from taxes, and for assessing of landlords. . |
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(3) Act for granting and levying executions for security of debts. . |
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C. Acts passed in the Assembly of Antigua. . |
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(1) Act for establishing courts and for administration of justice. . |
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(2) Act for quieting inhabitants in their present possessions, and for preventing litigious lawsuits. . |
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(3) Act for dividing the Island into parishes, for maintenance of ministers and the poor, and for erecting and repairing churches. . |
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(4) Act for getting in the plunder due to the army at St. Christophers. . |
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(5) Act for raising tenants from taxes, and for assessing of landlords. . |
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(6) Act for regulation of the Militia. . |
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(7) Act to encourage importation of white servants. 1½ pp. Endorsed, Mr. Solicitor General's report on them received 16 Oct. 1693; read 8 Jan. 1693–4. [Board of Trade. Leeward Islands, 4. Nos. 19, 19I; and 44, pp. 135–138.] . |
| Aug. 22. |
518. John Povey to the Attorney General. Forwarding the Acts of New Hampshire for 1692 for his opinion. List of the Acts. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXVII., p. 225.] |
| Aug. 22. |
519. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. Three members only present, owing to the great rains. Adjourned to 29th. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., p. 352.] |
| Aug. 22. |
520. Minutes of Council and Assembly of Montserrat. A negro named Peter Boone was brought before the Council and convicted of the theft of nine pigs. He was condemned to be cut to pieces and have his bowels burnt, and his quarters put up in the most public paths adjoining the towns of Plymouth and Kinsale. Another negro who had in his house fresh flesh of which he could not give an honest account was condemned to have his right ear cut off and to be burned in the breast with an iron appointed for the purpose. Acts for easing of tenants and for a donation to the Lieutenant-Governor. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 321, 322.] |
| Aug. 23. |
521. Minutes of Council of Nevis. The Assembly was sworn and presented Philip Dewitt as their Speaker. Act to encourage the taking of runaway negroes passed. The Council agreed to the Assembly's proposal that all persons should keep one gun and cartouche box per every fifteen dutiable negroes, in order to arm the poor who cannot provide themselves; and that a penalty be considered upon for such as wilfully break or sell their guns. Joint Committee appointed to draw up an Act for the purpose. The Council and Assembly agreed to effect an exchange with St. Christophers of stores of cannon-shot, those in Nevis being better fitted for the guns in St. Kitts and vice versa. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 280, 281.] |
| Aug. 24. |
522. Minutes of Council of Massachusetts. Order for writs for a General Court to assemble on 27 September. Advised that a small fort be erected at Saco and part of the Militia on the Eastern frontier moved thither under command of Francis Hooke, Esq. Proclamation forbidding trade with the Eastern Indians without the licence of the Governor and Council. Order for payment of debentures for wages and supplies of seamen and soldiers. Letter from the Government of New Hampshire read, justifying the detention of William Peprell's vessel. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIV., pp. 247–248.] |
| Aug. 24. |
523. Minutes of Council of New York. Captain Chant's journal of the Governor's journey to Sandy Point having been read, it was agreed to substitute a large battery upon the outermost point of rock to command both rivers, rather than to erect a battery on each side as suggested by the Governor. Order for the repair of the city fortifications to be hastened. Chidley Brooke returned from Boston with a letter from Sir F. Wheler, setting forth the state of his force. Orders for sundry payments. |
| Aug. 25. |
The Governor again brought forward his project for a battery on each side of the Narrows, but the Council adhered to its former preference for a single battery, and a Committee was appointed to superintend the work. The Governor proposed to collect the Militia into camp for two or three weeks, but in view of the near approach of winter the matter was for the present deferred. Proclamation for regulating alarm-beacons, and for the rules to be observed on an alarm. Two letters from Albany read as to the examination of a French prisoner brought in by the Indians. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 452–454.] |
Aug. 24.
Whitehall. |
524. Order of the Privy Council. Referring the petition of Christopher Almy and an address of the Government of Rhode Island to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Wm. Bridgeman. ½ p. Annexed, |
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524. I. Petition of Christopher Almy to the Queen in Council. For permission to present the address of Rhode Island to the Queen. 1 p. |
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524. II. Address of the Governor and Company of Rhode Island to the King and Queen. We have sent you several addresses to which we have received no reply. This has stirred up certain "malediscontented" people to attempt the subversion of the Government, urging that the persons
commissioned by Sir Edmund Andros ought to continue until some immediate order from the Crown. Sir William Phips on his arrival wrote us a letter, declaring himself to be empowered with the Militia of this Colony, and, without enclosing copy, of his Commission, desiring us to propose men for commissions, whereas our patent gives us sole control of the Militia. None the less we sent two gentlemen with lists of proper men for commissions, and of those who had disclaimed the King's Government; but Sir William Phips instead of sending an answer to the Governor, as he promised to do, sent up Commissions to Major Peleg Sanford with the intention of commissionating those against whom we objected and of deposing those who have supported the King's Government. But most of both parties refuse to receive commissions, so that the royal intentions for the defence of the Colony are like to make way for an inlet to the enemy unless prevented. We therefore convened the General Assembly to resettle the Militia, and beg for redress herein. We believe private interest to be at the root of this matter, some of Sir William Phips's persons having claims to the Narragansett country by virtue of a pretended mortgage, which has more than once been pronounced invalid. By reason of these overtures in the Militia several persons of Kingstown in the Narragansett country have riotously rescued a prisoner, setting at naught the Deputy-Governor's warrant, and saying that they would answer for it to two justices who held Sir Edmund Andros's commission. We shall do our best to set this right, but we cannot tell what the issue will be. By reason of these overtures too we cannot raise money for support of the Government, nor for sending a messenger to England. For the same reason much of the Narragansett country remains unpurchased and a wilderness, so that our inhabitants go away to other Colonies. We beg you to send us immediate confirmation of your Government here according to the limits and boundaries of the patent and of previous decisions. 2 Aug. 1692. Signed. John Easton. |
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524. III. The Governor and Company of Rhode Island to the King. We have received no answer to our letters reporting that we had restored our former Government according to our charter. We have therefore sent Christopher Almy to obtain for us your gracious answer. And since a difference has arisen between us and Sir William Phips as to our boundaries we beg that we may keep the boundaries appointed us by our Charter. Dated, 22 Nov. 1692. 1 p. Endorsed, Recd. 31 Aug. 1693. Abstract read 15 Sep. '93. |
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524. IV. Credentials of Christopher Almy as bearer of the foregoing addresses. 22 November, 1692. Copy. 1 p. [Board of Trade. New England, 6. Nos. 73, 73 I.–IV.; and 35. pp. 116–125.] |
| Aug. 26. |
525. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Orders as to divers receipts and payments. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 256–267.] |
| Aug. 29. |
526. Minutes of Council of Barbados. The Governor acquainted the Assembly with the need for repairing the trenches of the Island, and for an Act to prevent negroes deserting to the enemy and poor whites flying from the enemy, in case of an invasion. The Assembly brought up an Act for a present of £500 to the Governor, and an order for payment for placing Fontabelle in a condition to receive the new Governor. They also asked for safer custody of a store of gunpowder, and submitted the names for a joint Committee on the defence of the Inland. Orders for sundry payments. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 425–429.] |
| Aug. 29. |
527. Journal of Assembly of Barbados. Debate arose whether the Assembly were legal. The Governor sent down the King's order to annul the late Election Act. Carried that the Assembly is legal. Bill for a present of £500 to the Governor passed. George Peers appointed to the Committee of Public Accounts. Order for a bill to be prepared to raise labourers for repair of the fortifications. A Committee appointed to wait on the Governor to hear of an emergency that he had to impart. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIV., pp. 352–353.] |
Aug. 29.
Barbados. |
528. Address of the Council and Assembly of Barbados to Governor Kendall. Thanking him for the benefits of his administration and offering him a present of £500 on his departure. Copy. Large sheet. Endorsed, Recd. 12 Jan. 1693–4. Read 15 May, '94. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 5. No. 26.] |
| Aug. 29. |
529. Minutes of General Council and Assembly of the Leeward Islands. Message from the Governor asking, in view of the menaces of French privateers, that the Act relating to the articles of war be amended and that the work of providing guard-houses be hastened. The Assembly answered that they thought the existing Act sufficient for articles of war, but were ready to improve it if necessary. On a message from the Governor desiring measures to be taken to secure lead for bullets, the Assembly asked the Council's concurrence in buying up certain weights, and requiring those responsible for custody of lead previously purchased to account for it. The Assembly agreed to pay the salaries to ministers as required in the King's letter. The Council gave orders for proving of gunpowder and desired the appointment of a custodian thereof. The Council also approved of the buying of lead and the payment of salaries to ministers. Sundry petitions considered, and persons summoned to attend next Council. |
| Aug. 30. |
Philemon Bird appointed custodian of gunpowder. Conferrers appointed to draft an amending Militia Act. The Assembly sent down the plan of a new gaol to the Council, which was approved. Message from the Council to the Assembly as to the payment for negroes employed on the forts. The Assembly complained of an affront put upon it by the Provost Marshal, and demanded that an apology should be required of him. The Assembly sent up an Act
to amend the Militia Act, and asked for the Council's decision as to the Act in favour of renters. The Council concurred that the Provost Marshal should apologise and asked for an answer as to the payment of the negroes. The Assembly replied that it would pass a short Act for the purpose, in which suggestion the Council concurred. Orders for sundry payments. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVIII., pp. 244–254.] |
| Aug. 31. |
530. Affidavit of John Brookes. That the ship Joseph was taken up for the Royal service in March, 1691, and that no money for that service has yet been received. ½ p. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 7. No. 22.] |
| [Aug. ?] |
531. Governor Codrington to [Earl of Nottingham ?]. I shall not fail in accordance with the Royal instructions to set apart competent parcels of the escheated land in each parish for the Ministers in these Islands, and to propose to the several Councils and Assemblies that the Ministers' stipends shall be paid in money. One parish has already set an example by settling £120 per annum on its minister, besides all perquisites, which are not inconsiderable. I give no account of the late unhappy expedition, as no doubt the commanders will do so. I could not be of service, being present only as a volunteer, because otherwise I could not have raised many men. Colonel Lloyd, who went from hence to Barbados, is dead. I beg for the command of the regiment. The salary and the foot-company which I have do not pay half the expenses of Government. Signed. Chr. Codrington. 1½ pp. Endorsed, R. Nov. 6, '93. [America and West Indies. 551. No. 83.] |
